A/N: In this chapter, you're going to experience more of DM's grief. Try
not to hurt me - I am but an innocent schoolgirl who loves Ernie Reyes
Jr.'s performance in Ninja Turtles II and wishes she could get Surf Ninjas
for her 14th birthday - OK, GOING OFF TOPIC HERE!!!
*
Chapter 7
DM nervously paced the small lounge as Belinda's screams were faintly heard down the corridor. After Belinda's water broke, DM had wasted no time in getting both her and Jerry back to the car, and driving to the nearest and safest place - Looney Island. Professor Squakencluck, on hearing that Belinda had gone into labour, had immediately taken control. He had taken the woman to the medical room and now, DM was forced to wait as Squakencluck and two of his female assistants helped Belinda with the birth whilst Jerry held her hand.
DM looked at his watch again. He had been forced to leave Kim and Penfold in the clearing, but had called for a plane to pick them up and bring them to the island. He knew Belinda needed some familiar faces around her.
At that moment, the door suddenly opened and Kim and Penfold came rushing in. Both were red in the face, and looked very anxious.
"DM!" Kim ran right up to him as he put his hands on her shoulders. "Belinda - how - where - "
"I don't know how she is", replied DM. "But Jerry's with her. The screams do worry me though".
"That's natural though, isn't it?" asked Penfold.
"I suppose so", said DM. "It's just - after - " Then he stopped and slapped his forehead.
"Oh, Kim, I'm so sorry", he apologised, turning to her. "Belinda's not even related to me and yet I'm the one who's worried over this!"
"I'm scared too". Kim out a hand to her friend's cheek, and DM quivered under the touch. "But don't feel bad. It must have been hard, bringing a women in labour out here. And I know you and Jerry aren't exactly looking eye-to-eye".
DM looked away guiltily.
"Kim - if you do want to leave the agency - I'll understand", he said cautiously.
"Leave? No way!" protested Kim. "I love you guys! I love living with you! I love sharing all these adventures! I like being treated like a WOMAN. And although I love Jerry, that's something he never really gave me".
"I think - I think he always likes seeing you as his little sister, doesn't he?" piped up Penfold. "I guess - I guess it can't be easy - watching over you when you're little and then suddenly watching you grow".
"You hit the nail on the head, Penfold", smiled Kim. "Jerry and Ricky always looked out for me, right from the start. As the years passed, Ricky gradually backed off but Jerry never did. I think - being the eldest - it gave him a sense of responsibility".
"Who could blame him?" murmured DM.
At that moment, the three of them were startled by a long loud scream from down the corridor.
"Belinda!" Kim ran to the door. "I've got to check on her!" she cried. She looked back at the boys.
"Go!" urged DM.
Kim smiled. "Thanks, DM". Then she disappeared.
Penfold went to stand by DM. He squeezed his friend's arm.
"You're alright, aren't you?" he asked.
"You've been asking that too many times lately", said DM.
"I've been worried about you, haven't I? You're my best friend".
DM smiled and picked his friend up.
"Everything WILL be alright", he promised. "We're like a family, I suppose. I thought I had lost everything when I lost - Damien".
"I know, DM", soothed Penfold. "I know I'll never replace him - but I can always stand by you".
"We need each other now more than ever", he said. "We just HAVE to stick together - for Kim".
"And for you", said Penfold. "What are you going to do about your dream therapy?"
DM froze. In all the adventure, he had completely forgotten about the therapy.
"Good question", he said. "Well - I don't really see as to how I can back out, now that I've agreed to it".
"But you're still not sure?"
"Oh, I don't know. Everything's jumbled up in my head".
Penfold gave a sympathetic smile.
"You'll know what to do", he said. "Your future depends on this, DM. You just have to try".
"I know. I know", said DM. Then he suddenly frowned and turned his head to the door.
"What's wrong?" asked Penfold.
"Listen".
Penfold pricked his ears and then his eyebrows furrowed.
"I can't hear anything".
"Exactly", said DM. "The screamings - they've - well - stopped!"
"You mean - ? You mean it might be over?" asked Penfold.
"I don't know, Penfold", was the reply. "I don't know".
DM put his assistant down and made for the door. Suddenly though, it slammed open and Kim stood in the doorway. She leaned against the door. A hand was over her mouth. DM was alarmed to see tears in her eyes.
"DM - " Kim was sobbing.
DM was horrified. "Oh, Kim. They haven't lost - not again - don't say - "
"No", suddenly gasped Kim. "They haven't".
DM was confused.
"What?"
"DM - " Kim said again. This time, she was smiling through her tears. And then she blurted out four words.
"I have a niece".
Then she collapsed to the floor in tears of joy.
*
"Oh, Belinda. She's beautiful", said DM, looking over Kim's shoulder at the tiny baby in Belinda's arms.
"Thankyou", smiled Belinda.
The new baby was fast alseep. Her eyes were not yet open, and she lay in her mother's arms, wrapped in a comfortable white towel.
DM couldn't take his eyes off the little bundle of joy. No-one could. It always amazed him - a little baby who depended on her parents to keep her safe. Then in twenty years time, she would be her own woman; she would rely on herself.
"Thanks to you, our family's still together", said Belinda, looking down at her newborn daughter.
"Yeah. Thanks, DM", said Jerry quietly. He looked a little embarrased and was averting the mouse's eyes. "Not just - for getting Belinda here in time, but for - well - what happened at the river - "
DM held up a hand and smiled.
"It's alright, Jerry. Believe me, I understand".
Jerry looked relieved.
"DM - would you like to hold her?" he suddenly asked.
DM was taken aback.
"Well - yes - that would be nice. If it's alright with Belinda", he added quickly.
"Oh, of course it is". Belinda gently picked her daughter up and handed him to Jerry. Jerry smiled at his child, and then gently put her into DM's arms.
"Hello", smiled DM, looking at the baby in wonderment. "Your mummy and daddy are going to take good care of you. Now you be good for them, alright? They're lucky to have you".
Then he turned and carefully gave the baby to Kim. She choked with emotion as she held her new niece in her arms.
"Hiya", she said. "I'm your auntie. I want you to follow DM's advice and be good, OK? Merry Christmas, little one".
Then she turned and handed the baby back to her brother. As she did so, she took her brother's hand.
"Well done, you", she whispered.
Jerry gave his sister a quick smile.
"Thanks, sis. I don't think I'll be the ONLY one around here with a new baby". He gestured to DM with his head and tipped Kim a wink.
"Shut up, you!" gasped Kim, with a huge embarrased grin. Jerry chuckled and turned back to his daughter.
"What was all that about?" asked DM as Kim came back over.
"You don't want to know", said Kim, rolling her eyes.
DM gave a little smile. He'd heard every word.
*
Three days later - and it's CHRISTMAS EVE!!!
"Merry Christmas, what", said Colonel K, holding up his whisky.
"Merry Christmas", echoed the whole room.
The Cat and Mouse was crowded. Agents and assistants from all over London had come together to celebrate. In a private parlour, DM, Kim, Penfold, Jerry and Belinda had joined Squakencluck, Agent 57 and Colonel K in a small Christmas celebration. Members of the public weren't normally allowed in, but Max had made a small exception with Jerry and Belinda.
"I'm glad you could join us this year, 57", smiled DM, as he clinked his drink together with his fellow agent's.
"Me too", replied 57. "It's a real honour to drink with you - and a new baby".
Belinda had her new baby on her lap. The baby was sleeping; Jerry had his arm gently wrapped around Belinda's waist as she rested her head on his shoulder.
Meanwhile, Kim had Penfold seated on her lap, as the two sipped hot chocolate. DM had his arm stretched along the back of the sofa, giving Kim a warm, protective feeling.
"This is a really nice place", commented Belinda. "You guys are lucky".
"It comes with the job", said DM, smiling. "I'm just glad you two are here to share Christmas Eve with us".
"Ja", said Squakencluck. "Now, if you vill excuse me - " he stood up.
"You're not going so soon, are you old chap?" asked the Colonel.
"I vill be returning later", said Squakencluck. "DM, please to come vith me".
DM extracted his arm from around Kim's waist and followed Squakencluck out of the parlour. Squakencluck led him right past other Christmas Eve party- goers, out into the alley.
"Alright, I'll make zis brief", said Squakencluck. "Are you really vanting your dream therapy?"
DM paused before answering.
"Do I have a choice?" he asked. "I can't go around worrying forever".
"Good", said Squakencluck. "You go and start ze Mark III - I'll let Max know vhere ve are going".
Before long, the two were flying away from the coffee-house and heading for Looney Island. DM hoped the others wouldn't be angry - but he knew he had to do this alone.
After an hour's journey, the Mark III landed on Looney Island. DM and Squakencluck climbed out.
"Alright", said Squakencluck, turning to the boy. "Zis is your last chance to back out, Danger Mouse. Are you SURE you vant to go through vith it?"
DM nodded shakily.
"I'm sure. Please - can we just get it over and done with?"
Squakencluck nodded.
"Do not worry yourself. I am promising you, it vill not hurt".
Maybe not physically, thought DM, but he didn't say it out loud.
But he couldn't back out now. He just had to sort himself out - for him and for London.
"Come on, DM", said Squakencluck. "Let's go. Ve need to get started".
DM nodded again, and then followed the Professor to the labs.
*
"DM's gone out to the Island?" asked Kim, sitting upright. Penfold was startled and jmped off her lap - luckily, he had already finished his juice.
"That's what he said", said Max. "He wouldn't say why. Is something wrong? DM isn't in any trouble, is he?"
"It's alright, Max", said Kim. "Er - could I have another juice?"
"Another round of drinks, Max", ordered the Colonel. "Put it on my account".
"Yes, sir".
"Where could he have gone?" asked Belinda, as Max left the parlour.
"Is everything OK, Kim?" asked Jerry.
"Yes, everything's fine", said Kim. "Um - DM's just having a bit of a hard time lately, that's all".
"It's not because of what I did to him - is it?" asked Jerry.
"No. It's - something else", said Kim.
"He's gone for the therapy, hasn't he?" hissed Penfold.
"Looks like it", replied Kim. "I wish we could have gone with him. Well, I guess we wouldn't have been able to do anything much for him anyway. He's the one who has to go through it all".
"Thankyou for helping me to look after him, Kim", said Penfold. "I don't know what I would have done without you. These last few months have been - "
"Eventful", said Kim.
"Yes, exactly".
"Drinks up!" said a voice. Kim and Penfold looked up and both groaned inwardly when Suzanna came in with a tray of drinks. She pouted when she saw DM wasn't there.
"Where's your boyfriend?" she asked Kim with a smirk. "Did you scare him off?"
Kim tried not to get angry, but it was hard.
"Leave it out, Suzanna".
"Well, I don't know what the poor guy has been going through these last few months", continued Suzanna. "But doesn't it seem ironic that all this started when YOU came along? Maybe you scared Greenback into trying to dispose of you - all you had to do was look at him after all".
"Don't talk to her like that", snapped Jerry.
Suzanna sneered at him.
"I don't see how this conversation has anything to do with you, LOVE", she replied nastily. "And I don't see how you can disagree. With a face like that - "
At that moment and to everyone's astonishment, Penfold stood up on the sofa and stuck his face a centimetre from Suzanna's.
"Look", he snapped in an unusually angry voice. "Just hush up, alright Suzanna? Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror lately? All that makeup...if there's anyone who would scare people just by looking at them, it would be you. So you can just be quiet and mind your own business!"
As soon as he said it, Penfold threw a hand over his mouth as Suzanna stared at him.
"Why, you little - ". She raised her hand and brought it back to slap the hamster, but Kim took hold of her wrist in an unusually tight grip.
"I don't think so, Suzanna. Now push off. You have no idea what ANY of us have been through".
Then with her other hand, Kim took up her drink and threw it all at Suzanna. The Persian screamed as a stain appeared right in the middle of her blue blouse.
"You - you - " spluttered Suzanna.
"Get out of the parlour", snapped Kim. "NOW".
Suzanna stared at her, and then fled the room. She could be heard screaming Max's name as the door slammed shut behind her.
Everyone stared at Kim and Penfold.
"Now that", said 57. "Was impressive".
"Well done, sis!" grinned Jerry. "I was ready to get up and throttle her".
"That might not have been such a good idea", smiled Kim. "But thanks anyway, bro".
"Anytime, sis".
*
DM lay back on the machine and squinted up at the light above his head.
The turquoise machine, situated in one of Squakencluck's private labs, had a flat body surface with buckles. A metallic band for the head poked straight upwards on one end. Either side of the machine, a curved glass top curled out. When both sides would be joined together, they would create a protective cone for whomever would be inside the machine at the time. And right next to the whole marvellous piece of engineering, controls to work the machine, along with a TV, were built into the wall.
"It vill show your dreams on ze screen", Squakencluck had said when he saw DM giving the TV a questioning look.
Well, thought DM. I hope he's prepared for what he's about to see.
Squakencluck stood on a stool so he had some good height to see what he was doing. He watched as DM wriggled around to get into a comfortable position.
"Zat's right - put your head into ze band, DM", he said gently. "Now, I must to buckle you up - "
He took the two buckles at the bottom and carefully tied once each around both of DM's feet. Then he turned to the next one and strapped that around DM's waist. Then after he had fastened the buckles around DM's wrists, he squeezed the mouse's arm reassurely.
"Don't vorry". He stood on tip-toe and pulled one curved glass shell down. Then he went over to the other side and started to pull that down too.
"It vill be over soon. Stay vith it".
DM nodded with difficulty - his head was fixed into the band.
"Now - stare into ze light", said Squakencluck, as the sheel was closed all the way. "And please to count backwards from ten".
DM noticed for the first time that there was a neat hole in the glass shell, exactly where the light shone through.
"Ten...nine...eight...seven...".
Outside the machine, Squakencluck turned some dials and pressed buttons on the wall.
"...six...five...four...three...two..."
DM closed his eyes, feeling slightly drowsy. When he opened them again, he was standing up.
DM looked around the room. He knew this place very well. It was the living- room of his old house.
DM suddenly heard music behind him and turned around. He saw two young boys, dancing. The younger - DM - was attempting a moonwalk. The elder - Damien - was laughing and attempting to sing without cracking up. The two were almost through. Damien was just taking the reins.
DM could hardly hear the words of the song - they were just a whispered echo. DM wasn't really registering any of it - he could only stare at Damien. His brother. His sibling. His bright spot. His guide.
If only I could hold out my hand and just...bring him back with me...
But he couldn't do that. He wanted to; but he couldn't.
Get me out of here, please, he begged. I can't take this a moment longer.
But nothing happened, and DM was forced to stand, just watching, as his brother hugged his younger self.
He looks so innocent and young, thought DM vaguely. It's like looking into the past. What will happen after these images are wiped clean from my mind? Will they live on, or will they surrender to darkness?
At that moment, he heard different voices.
"DM...DM...DM..."
DM was aware of his eyelids closing and his body leaning back. When he opened his eyes again, he was lying in the machine and the Professor was pulling back the shell. DM shook his head slightly, and then realised that Squakencluck looked quite pale.
"DM - are you feeling alright?" asked Squakencluck, undoing the buckles so DM could sit up.
"Yes - I'm fine - but - " DM was feeling too shaky. Squakencluck patted his arm and then put a square of chocolate in his hand.
"It is Swiss", he told the mouse. "Swiss is your favourite chocolate, ja?"
DM smiled gratefully and ate the slab as quickly as possible.
"Take a rest for a moment", said Squakencluck. His voice was trembling slightly, and he wasn't doing a very good job of trying to cover it up. He was too shocked as to what he had just seen.
"It's so strange, isn't it?" asked DM. "Looking back...seeing him as he was..."
Squakencluck nodded.
"Ja. DM - I vas having no idea zat zose dreams you vere telling me about vere - like zat. I can't start to zhink as to vhat it must have been like for you".
"I know. I know". DM looked up.
"Can we carry on? Please - before my nerve fails me".
*
"About your - DECISION - Kim", said Jerry suddenly. His sister turned to look at him.
"What about it?"
"Well - what do you want to do?"
"I don't know", said Kim, shaking her head. "It's so confusing. Any suggestions?"
"Yeah - do what you think is best. I'll stand by you, whatever it is".
Kim stared at him.
"You mean that?'
"Yeah", said Jerry. "Woman or creature, you're still my sister. I'd love you to bits. I just want to make sure you'll be alright. That's why I was so protective. I just didn't trust your instincts the way YOU did. I'm sorry, Kim".
"I know", she smiled.
Jerry grinned and turned back to Belinda.
"That's much better", she whispered in his ear.
Kim stared at the wall, in a funk of thought. She stayed like that for so long that Penfold began to wonder if she had fallen asleep sitting up. He snapped his fingers in front of her face.
"Kim?"
Suddenly, his friend got up so fast that Penfold was startled.
"Penfold", said Kim. "Is there any way I can get to Looney Island at this time of night?"
"Well - yes - the Island's on duty for all hours", stuttered Penfold. "Why? Are you ill?"
"No. I just know now what I have to do".
Kim grabbed Penfold and made towards the door.
"Where are you going?" asked Jerry after her.
Kim turned back.
"I'll see you all later. Come on, Penfold - we have stuff to do!"
*
Back at Looney Island...
"Alright. Just lie back", said Squakencluck gently.
DM sat back in the machine as the Professor started to buckle him up again. He stuck his head in the band, dreading what was about to come.
He waited for the shell to be brought down and as he gazed up into the light, he counted backwards from ten again.
His eyes went hazy, and the next thing DM knew, he was standing by a riverside. He could feel un-imaginable terror as his feet took off, off of the ground and right into the river.
Below, DM saw his brother there. Damien. Older now, with his eyes closed, and no movement whatsoever.
DM began to swim towards him, praying over and over that this time, h would reach him. But then the scene changed and DM found himself lying on his back on the woodland ground. Before his eyes, Doctor Crumhorn appeared. Just the sight of him was enough to make DM shiver in fear.
Doctor Crumhorn bent down and held something up - Damien's body. The boy's eyes were wide open in shock, and his body had been eaten away at by the fish. DM wanted to turn away. He didn't want to look, but something kept him rooted to the spot.
Then the woods became so much brighter. The scene faded, and DM suddenly realised that electric currents were burning all over him. He screamed, although he felt no pain. Deep laughter reached his ears, and a horrible voice whispered from right behind him.
"You both belonged to me. When he died, I waited for thirteen years to hurt the person closest to him - his younger brother. I OWNED you both. You were both MINE. And you - you still ARE mine".
DM's screams became louder still as a clawed hand touched his shoulder. He just felt so afraid, so scared, and he wanted to escape this trap.
Outside in the lab, DM was whimpering in the tube. His head was moving inside the band from side to side, and he would have thrashed around, had it not been for the buckles and the band.
"I had better be getting him out of zere", said the Professor. Seeing DM struggle around on the screen was really getting to him. He couldn't imagine what it must be like for Danger Mouse.
He ran to the controls and started to shut the machine down. The images on the TV screen vanished, and DM's whimpering and movement slowed in the tube. Squakencluck immediately ran to open the machine up, unbuckling DM's body so he could sit up.
"S-Squakencluck?" DM asked, as he roused. The boy's face was covered in sweat, and Squakencluck went to get him a drink from the water-cooler by the wall.
"DM", he said, as he came back with a paper cup in his hands. "DM - are you alright?"
"No. Not really. Oh dear". DM stood up shakily, and Squakencluck helped him over to a chair, giving him the drink.
"DM, take it easy, ja?" he said gently. His friend was trembling, and he couldn't keep a firm grip on the cup.
"Alright", said DM. "It was just so - so FRIGHTENING! I mean - seeing Damien - and that horrible - THING - " He couldn't even say Crumhorn's name " - telling me I belonged to him - actually TOUCHING me - "
Squakencluck's eyes narrowed as he saw how much Crumhorn had torn the boy apart.
"It's alright, now", he said. "Zose dreams vill not bother you again - I vill make sure of zat".
"Thankyou, Professor", said DM. "For everything".
"Zat's alright. I never liked Crumhorn", said the Professor. "He alvays seemed so STRANGE. I vas as vorried as your family vere ven Damien moved in vith him".
He looked at his watch.
"You rest for a vhile", he said. "Then I'll arrange for you to go back to ze Cat and Mouse".
"Thanks, Professor, but I'll be alright to make my own way back", said DM. "Will you be coming with me?"
"No. I vill vork on your medication, and vill go back later".
"Are you sure? It's Christmas Eve!"
"I'm sure. I'll come back in plenty of time, don't you vorry".
DM smiled after the Professor as he left the room. Then he just sat there for a while, thinking things through.
In the main lab, Squakencluck was looking over his notes when one of his assistants came in.
"Professor Squakencluck? There's a small plane approaching the Island. The passengers need to see you straight away".
"Alright zen. Let zem through".
"Yes sir".
"Professor?" DM entered the lab. "I think I'm going to go back now. You will come later, won't you?"
"Zubeviel, of course. In ze meantime, have some fun, ja?"
"OK. See you later on. And - thanks again".
"Zat ist perfectly alright, my boy", said Squakencluck. "Auf Wiedersehen".
"Goodbye!"
*
The Mark III landed outside the Cat and Mouse, and DM got out. he entered the coffee-house.
"Hi, DM", said Max, seeing his friend. "Is everything OK?"
"MAX!" screamed a voice from the back room. "Is DM back? Tell him what his little friends did!"
DM raised and eyebrow at Max as the Persian chuckled.
"Oh, DM, it was priceless", grinned Max. "Kim and Penfold both squared up to Suzanna, and Kim poured drink all over her top! Her EXPENSIVE SKY-BLUE CASHMERE top, from PARIS!"
DM put a hand over his mouth, hiding a smile.
"About time someone did", said Max. "Anyway, your friends are still here - but Kim and Penfold have left too, apparantly".
"Oh". DM gave a disappointed frown.
"But they'll be coming back later. The others are upstairs still. Can I get you a drink?"
DM shook his head no, and then ran upstairs.
"Is it true?" he asked as he entered the parlour. "Did Kim actually do that to Suzanna?"
"You bet!" laughed Jerry. DM brightened at the warmth Jerry was now showing him and sat down beside him.
"Suzanna left screaming blue murder", said Jerry, turning to him. "She really insulted Kim, but Penfold stood up to her. And just as Suzanna is about to sock him one, Kim grabs her wrist and tells her to blow the joint!"
Both of them laughed.
"It was very impressive!" grinned Agent 57. "I never knew Penfold to be so fierce".
"He does have his moments", chuckled DM.
"Hey, DM", said Jerry suddenly. "I wonder - if we could forget everything and - well, you know, clean slate".
"Of course". DM held out a hand and Jerry shook it. "I'm just glad we're finally seeing eye-to-eye".
"After everything you've done for my family - and I owe you my LIFE", said Jerry. "I hope I can do something for you in the future. In fact, is there anything I can do now? Can I buy you anything?"
DM laughed.
"No, thanks, I can't think of anything for you to buy me. Even if I could, I wouldn't ask you to get it anyway".
The two slowed into easy conversation for a while, until Jerry suddenly stopped talking.
"Say", he said. "Is it just me - or - has it gone quiet downstairs?"
"Yes - you're right", said DM, pricking up his ears.
"Something wrong, you think?" asked Colonel K.
"I don't know - stay here". DM got off the couch and made for the door. At that moment though, it creaked open.
"Hi guys", said Kim's voice.
Then the door opened fully - and the whole room gave a gasp.
*
Chapter 7
DM nervously paced the small lounge as Belinda's screams were faintly heard down the corridor. After Belinda's water broke, DM had wasted no time in getting both her and Jerry back to the car, and driving to the nearest and safest place - Looney Island. Professor Squakencluck, on hearing that Belinda had gone into labour, had immediately taken control. He had taken the woman to the medical room and now, DM was forced to wait as Squakencluck and two of his female assistants helped Belinda with the birth whilst Jerry held her hand.
DM looked at his watch again. He had been forced to leave Kim and Penfold in the clearing, but had called for a plane to pick them up and bring them to the island. He knew Belinda needed some familiar faces around her.
At that moment, the door suddenly opened and Kim and Penfold came rushing in. Both were red in the face, and looked very anxious.
"DM!" Kim ran right up to him as he put his hands on her shoulders. "Belinda - how - where - "
"I don't know how she is", replied DM. "But Jerry's with her. The screams do worry me though".
"That's natural though, isn't it?" asked Penfold.
"I suppose so", said DM. "It's just - after - " Then he stopped and slapped his forehead.
"Oh, Kim, I'm so sorry", he apologised, turning to her. "Belinda's not even related to me and yet I'm the one who's worried over this!"
"I'm scared too". Kim out a hand to her friend's cheek, and DM quivered under the touch. "But don't feel bad. It must have been hard, bringing a women in labour out here. And I know you and Jerry aren't exactly looking eye-to-eye".
DM looked away guiltily.
"Kim - if you do want to leave the agency - I'll understand", he said cautiously.
"Leave? No way!" protested Kim. "I love you guys! I love living with you! I love sharing all these adventures! I like being treated like a WOMAN. And although I love Jerry, that's something he never really gave me".
"I think - I think he always likes seeing you as his little sister, doesn't he?" piped up Penfold. "I guess - I guess it can't be easy - watching over you when you're little and then suddenly watching you grow".
"You hit the nail on the head, Penfold", smiled Kim. "Jerry and Ricky always looked out for me, right from the start. As the years passed, Ricky gradually backed off but Jerry never did. I think - being the eldest - it gave him a sense of responsibility".
"Who could blame him?" murmured DM.
At that moment, the three of them were startled by a long loud scream from down the corridor.
"Belinda!" Kim ran to the door. "I've got to check on her!" she cried. She looked back at the boys.
"Go!" urged DM.
Kim smiled. "Thanks, DM". Then she disappeared.
Penfold went to stand by DM. He squeezed his friend's arm.
"You're alright, aren't you?" he asked.
"You've been asking that too many times lately", said DM.
"I've been worried about you, haven't I? You're my best friend".
DM smiled and picked his friend up.
"Everything WILL be alright", he promised. "We're like a family, I suppose. I thought I had lost everything when I lost - Damien".
"I know, DM", soothed Penfold. "I know I'll never replace him - but I can always stand by you".
"We need each other now more than ever", he said. "We just HAVE to stick together - for Kim".
"And for you", said Penfold. "What are you going to do about your dream therapy?"
DM froze. In all the adventure, he had completely forgotten about the therapy.
"Good question", he said. "Well - I don't really see as to how I can back out, now that I've agreed to it".
"But you're still not sure?"
"Oh, I don't know. Everything's jumbled up in my head".
Penfold gave a sympathetic smile.
"You'll know what to do", he said. "Your future depends on this, DM. You just have to try".
"I know. I know", said DM. Then he suddenly frowned and turned his head to the door.
"What's wrong?" asked Penfold.
"Listen".
Penfold pricked his ears and then his eyebrows furrowed.
"I can't hear anything".
"Exactly", said DM. "The screamings - they've - well - stopped!"
"You mean - ? You mean it might be over?" asked Penfold.
"I don't know, Penfold", was the reply. "I don't know".
DM put his assistant down and made for the door. Suddenly though, it slammed open and Kim stood in the doorway. She leaned against the door. A hand was over her mouth. DM was alarmed to see tears in her eyes.
"DM - " Kim was sobbing.
DM was horrified. "Oh, Kim. They haven't lost - not again - don't say - "
"No", suddenly gasped Kim. "They haven't".
DM was confused.
"What?"
"DM - " Kim said again. This time, she was smiling through her tears. And then she blurted out four words.
"I have a niece".
Then she collapsed to the floor in tears of joy.
*
"Oh, Belinda. She's beautiful", said DM, looking over Kim's shoulder at the tiny baby in Belinda's arms.
"Thankyou", smiled Belinda.
The new baby was fast alseep. Her eyes were not yet open, and she lay in her mother's arms, wrapped in a comfortable white towel.
DM couldn't take his eyes off the little bundle of joy. No-one could. It always amazed him - a little baby who depended on her parents to keep her safe. Then in twenty years time, she would be her own woman; she would rely on herself.
"Thanks to you, our family's still together", said Belinda, looking down at her newborn daughter.
"Yeah. Thanks, DM", said Jerry quietly. He looked a little embarrased and was averting the mouse's eyes. "Not just - for getting Belinda here in time, but for - well - what happened at the river - "
DM held up a hand and smiled.
"It's alright, Jerry. Believe me, I understand".
Jerry looked relieved.
"DM - would you like to hold her?" he suddenly asked.
DM was taken aback.
"Well - yes - that would be nice. If it's alright with Belinda", he added quickly.
"Oh, of course it is". Belinda gently picked her daughter up and handed him to Jerry. Jerry smiled at his child, and then gently put her into DM's arms.
"Hello", smiled DM, looking at the baby in wonderment. "Your mummy and daddy are going to take good care of you. Now you be good for them, alright? They're lucky to have you".
Then he turned and carefully gave the baby to Kim. She choked with emotion as she held her new niece in her arms.
"Hiya", she said. "I'm your auntie. I want you to follow DM's advice and be good, OK? Merry Christmas, little one".
Then she turned and handed the baby back to her brother. As she did so, she took her brother's hand.
"Well done, you", she whispered.
Jerry gave his sister a quick smile.
"Thanks, sis. I don't think I'll be the ONLY one around here with a new baby". He gestured to DM with his head and tipped Kim a wink.
"Shut up, you!" gasped Kim, with a huge embarrased grin. Jerry chuckled and turned back to his daughter.
"What was all that about?" asked DM as Kim came back over.
"You don't want to know", said Kim, rolling her eyes.
DM gave a little smile. He'd heard every word.
*
Three days later - and it's CHRISTMAS EVE!!!
"Merry Christmas, what", said Colonel K, holding up his whisky.
"Merry Christmas", echoed the whole room.
The Cat and Mouse was crowded. Agents and assistants from all over London had come together to celebrate. In a private parlour, DM, Kim, Penfold, Jerry and Belinda had joined Squakencluck, Agent 57 and Colonel K in a small Christmas celebration. Members of the public weren't normally allowed in, but Max had made a small exception with Jerry and Belinda.
"I'm glad you could join us this year, 57", smiled DM, as he clinked his drink together with his fellow agent's.
"Me too", replied 57. "It's a real honour to drink with you - and a new baby".
Belinda had her new baby on her lap. The baby was sleeping; Jerry had his arm gently wrapped around Belinda's waist as she rested her head on his shoulder.
Meanwhile, Kim had Penfold seated on her lap, as the two sipped hot chocolate. DM had his arm stretched along the back of the sofa, giving Kim a warm, protective feeling.
"This is a really nice place", commented Belinda. "You guys are lucky".
"It comes with the job", said DM, smiling. "I'm just glad you two are here to share Christmas Eve with us".
"Ja", said Squakencluck. "Now, if you vill excuse me - " he stood up.
"You're not going so soon, are you old chap?" asked the Colonel.
"I vill be returning later", said Squakencluck. "DM, please to come vith me".
DM extracted his arm from around Kim's waist and followed Squakencluck out of the parlour. Squakencluck led him right past other Christmas Eve party- goers, out into the alley.
"Alright, I'll make zis brief", said Squakencluck. "Are you really vanting your dream therapy?"
DM paused before answering.
"Do I have a choice?" he asked. "I can't go around worrying forever".
"Good", said Squakencluck. "You go and start ze Mark III - I'll let Max know vhere ve are going".
Before long, the two were flying away from the coffee-house and heading for Looney Island. DM hoped the others wouldn't be angry - but he knew he had to do this alone.
After an hour's journey, the Mark III landed on Looney Island. DM and Squakencluck climbed out.
"Alright", said Squakencluck, turning to the boy. "Zis is your last chance to back out, Danger Mouse. Are you SURE you vant to go through vith it?"
DM nodded shakily.
"I'm sure. Please - can we just get it over and done with?"
Squakencluck nodded.
"Do not worry yourself. I am promising you, it vill not hurt".
Maybe not physically, thought DM, but he didn't say it out loud.
But he couldn't back out now. He just had to sort himself out - for him and for London.
"Come on, DM", said Squakencluck. "Let's go. Ve need to get started".
DM nodded again, and then followed the Professor to the labs.
*
"DM's gone out to the Island?" asked Kim, sitting upright. Penfold was startled and jmped off her lap - luckily, he had already finished his juice.
"That's what he said", said Max. "He wouldn't say why. Is something wrong? DM isn't in any trouble, is he?"
"It's alright, Max", said Kim. "Er - could I have another juice?"
"Another round of drinks, Max", ordered the Colonel. "Put it on my account".
"Yes, sir".
"Where could he have gone?" asked Belinda, as Max left the parlour.
"Is everything OK, Kim?" asked Jerry.
"Yes, everything's fine", said Kim. "Um - DM's just having a bit of a hard time lately, that's all".
"It's not because of what I did to him - is it?" asked Jerry.
"No. It's - something else", said Kim.
"He's gone for the therapy, hasn't he?" hissed Penfold.
"Looks like it", replied Kim. "I wish we could have gone with him. Well, I guess we wouldn't have been able to do anything much for him anyway. He's the one who has to go through it all".
"Thankyou for helping me to look after him, Kim", said Penfold. "I don't know what I would have done without you. These last few months have been - "
"Eventful", said Kim.
"Yes, exactly".
"Drinks up!" said a voice. Kim and Penfold looked up and both groaned inwardly when Suzanna came in with a tray of drinks. She pouted when she saw DM wasn't there.
"Where's your boyfriend?" she asked Kim with a smirk. "Did you scare him off?"
Kim tried not to get angry, but it was hard.
"Leave it out, Suzanna".
"Well, I don't know what the poor guy has been going through these last few months", continued Suzanna. "But doesn't it seem ironic that all this started when YOU came along? Maybe you scared Greenback into trying to dispose of you - all you had to do was look at him after all".
"Don't talk to her like that", snapped Jerry.
Suzanna sneered at him.
"I don't see how this conversation has anything to do with you, LOVE", she replied nastily. "And I don't see how you can disagree. With a face like that - "
At that moment and to everyone's astonishment, Penfold stood up on the sofa and stuck his face a centimetre from Suzanna's.
"Look", he snapped in an unusually angry voice. "Just hush up, alright Suzanna? Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror lately? All that makeup...if there's anyone who would scare people just by looking at them, it would be you. So you can just be quiet and mind your own business!"
As soon as he said it, Penfold threw a hand over his mouth as Suzanna stared at him.
"Why, you little - ". She raised her hand and brought it back to slap the hamster, but Kim took hold of her wrist in an unusually tight grip.
"I don't think so, Suzanna. Now push off. You have no idea what ANY of us have been through".
Then with her other hand, Kim took up her drink and threw it all at Suzanna. The Persian screamed as a stain appeared right in the middle of her blue blouse.
"You - you - " spluttered Suzanna.
"Get out of the parlour", snapped Kim. "NOW".
Suzanna stared at her, and then fled the room. She could be heard screaming Max's name as the door slammed shut behind her.
Everyone stared at Kim and Penfold.
"Now that", said 57. "Was impressive".
"Well done, sis!" grinned Jerry. "I was ready to get up and throttle her".
"That might not have been such a good idea", smiled Kim. "But thanks anyway, bro".
"Anytime, sis".
*
DM lay back on the machine and squinted up at the light above his head.
The turquoise machine, situated in one of Squakencluck's private labs, had a flat body surface with buckles. A metallic band for the head poked straight upwards on one end. Either side of the machine, a curved glass top curled out. When both sides would be joined together, they would create a protective cone for whomever would be inside the machine at the time. And right next to the whole marvellous piece of engineering, controls to work the machine, along with a TV, were built into the wall.
"It vill show your dreams on ze screen", Squakencluck had said when he saw DM giving the TV a questioning look.
Well, thought DM. I hope he's prepared for what he's about to see.
Squakencluck stood on a stool so he had some good height to see what he was doing. He watched as DM wriggled around to get into a comfortable position.
"Zat's right - put your head into ze band, DM", he said gently. "Now, I must to buckle you up - "
He took the two buckles at the bottom and carefully tied once each around both of DM's feet. Then he turned to the next one and strapped that around DM's waist. Then after he had fastened the buckles around DM's wrists, he squeezed the mouse's arm reassurely.
"Don't vorry". He stood on tip-toe and pulled one curved glass shell down. Then he went over to the other side and started to pull that down too.
"It vill be over soon. Stay vith it".
DM nodded with difficulty - his head was fixed into the band.
"Now - stare into ze light", said Squakencluck, as the sheel was closed all the way. "And please to count backwards from ten".
DM noticed for the first time that there was a neat hole in the glass shell, exactly where the light shone through.
"Ten...nine...eight...seven...".
Outside the machine, Squakencluck turned some dials and pressed buttons on the wall.
"...six...five...four...three...two..."
DM closed his eyes, feeling slightly drowsy. When he opened them again, he was standing up.
DM looked around the room. He knew this place very well. It was the living- room of his old house.
DM suddenly heard music behind him and turned around. He saw two young boys, dancing. The younger - DM - was attempting a moonwalk. The elder - Damien - was laughing and attempting to sing without cracking up. The two were almost through. Damien was just taking the reins.
DM could hardly hear the words of the song - they were just a whispered echo. DM wasn't really registering any of it - he could only stare at Damien. His brother. His sibling. His bright spot. His guide.
If only I could hold out my hand and just...bring him back with me...
But he couldn't do that. He wanted to; but he couldn't.
Get me out of here, please, he begged. I can't take this a moment longer.
But nothing happened, and DM was forced to stand, just watching, as his brother hugged his younger self.
He looks so innocent and young, thought DM vaguely. It's like looking into the past. What will happen after these images are wiped clean from my mind? Will they live on, or will they surrender to darkness?
At that moment, he heard different voices.
"DM...DM...DM..."
DM was aware of his eyelids closing and his body leaning back. When he opened his eyes again, he was lying in the machine and the Professor was pulling back the shell. DM shook his head slightly, and then realised that Squakencluck looked quite pale.
"DM - are you feeling alright?" asked Squakencluck, undoing the buckles so DM could sit up.
"Yes - I'm fine - but - " DM was feeling too shaky. Squakencluck patted his arm and then put a square of chocolate in his hand.
"It is Swiss", he told the mouse. "Swiss is your favourite chocolate, ja?"
DM smiled gratefully and ate the slab as quickly as possible.
"Take a rest for a moment", said Squakencluck. His voice was trembling slightly, and he wasn't doing a very good job of trying to cover it up. He was too shocked as to what he had just seen.
"It's so strange, isn't it?" asked DM. "Looking back...seeing him as he was..."
Squakencluck nodded.
"Ja. DM - I vas having no idea zat zose dreams you vere telling me about vere - like zat. I can't start to zhink as to vhat it must have been like for you".
"I know. I know". DM looked up.
"Can we carry on? Please - before my nerve fails me".
*
"About your - DECISION - Kim", said Jerry suddenly. His sister turned to look at him.
"What about it?"
"Well - what do you want to do?"
"I don't know", said Kim, shaking her head. "It's so confusing. Any suggestions?"
"Yeah - do what you think is best. I'll stand by you, whatever it is".
Kim stared at him.
"You mean that?'
"Yeah", said Jerry. "Woman or creature, you're still my sister. I'd love you to bits. I just want to make sure you'll be alright. That's why I was so protective. I just didn't trust your instincts the way YOU did. I'm sorry, Kim".
"I know", she smiled.
Jerry grinned and turned back to Belinda.
"That's much better", she whispered in his ear.
Kim stared at the wall, in a funk of thought. She stayed like that for so long that Penfold began to wonder if she had fallen asleep sitting up. He snapped his fingers in front of her face.
"Kim?"
Suddenly, his friend got up so fast that Penfold was startled.
"Penfold", said Kim. "Is there any way I can get to Looney Island at this time of night?"
"Well - yes - the Island's on duty for all hours", stuttered Penfold. "Why? Are you ill?"
"No. I just know now what I have to do".
Kim grabbed Penfold and made towards the door.
"Where are you going?" asked Jerry after her.
Kim turned back.
"I'll see you all later. Come on, Penfold - we have stuff to do!"
*
Back at Looney Island...
"Alright. Just lie back", said Squakencluck gently.
DM sat back in the machine as the Professor started to buckle him up again. He stuck his head in the band, dreading what was about to come.
He waited for the shell to be brought down and as he gazed up into the light, he counted backwards from ten again.
His eyes went hazy, and the next thing DM knew, he was standing by a riverside. He could feel un-imaginable terror as his feet took off, off of the ground and right into the river.
Below, DM saw his brother there. Damien. Older now, with his eyes closed, and no movement whatsoever.
DM began to swim towards him, praying over and over that this time, h would reach him. But then the scene changed and DM found himself lying on his back on the woodland ground. Before his eyes, Doctor Crumhorn appeared. Just the sight of him was enough to make DM shiver in fear.
Doctor Crumhorn bent down and held something up - Damien's body. The boy's eyes were wide open in shock, and his body had been eaten away at by the fish. DM wanted to turn away. He didn't want to look, but something kept him rooted to the spot.
Then the woods became so much brighter. The scene faded, and DM suddenly realised that electric currents were burning all over him. He screamed, although he felt no pain. Deep laughter reached his ears, and a horrible voice whispered from right behind him.
"You both belonged to me. When he died, I waited for thirteen years to hurt the person closest to him - his younger brother. I OWNED you both. You were both MINE. And you - you still ARE mine".
DM's screams became louder still as a clawed hand touched his shoulder. He just felt so afraid, so scared, and he wanted to escape this trap.
Outside in the lab, DM was whimpering in the tube. His head was moving inside the band from side to side, and he would have thrashed around, had it not been for the buckles and the band.
"I had better be getting him out of zere", said the Professor. Seeing DM struggle around on the screen was really getting to him. He couldn't imagine what it must be like for Danger Mouse.
He ran to the controls and started to shut the machine down. The images on the TV screen vanished, and DM's whimpering and movement slowed in the tube. Squakencluck immediately ran to open the machine up, unbuckling DM's body so he could sit up.
"S-Squakencluck?" DM asked, as he roused. The boy's face was covered in sweat, and Squakencluck went to get him a drink from the water-cooler by the wall.
"DM", he said, as he came back with a paper cup in his hands. "DM - are you alright?"
"No. Not really. Oh dear". DM stood up shakily, and Squakencluck helped him over to a chair, giving him the drink.
"DM, take it easy, ja?" he said gently. His friend was trembling, and he couldn't keep a firm grip on the cup.
"Alright", said DM. "It was just so - so FRIGHTENING! I mean - seeing Damien - and that horrible - THING - " He couldn't even say Crumhorn's name " - telling me I belonged to him - actually TOUCHING me - "
Squakencluck's eyes narrowed as he saw how much Crumhorn had torn the boy apart.
"It's alright, now", he said. "Zose dreams vill not bother you again - I vill make sure of zat".
"Thankyou, Professor", said DM. "For everything".
"Zat's alright. I never liked Crumhorn", said the Professor. "He alvays seemed so STRANGE. I vas as vorried as your family vere ven Damien moved in vith him".
He looked at his watch.
"You rest for a vhile", he said. "Then I'll arrange for you to go back to ze Cat and Mouse".
"Thanks, Professor, but I'll be alright to make my own way back", said DM. "Will you be coming with me?"
"No. I vill vork on your medication, and vill go back later".
"Are you sure? It's Christmas Eve!"
"I'm sure. I'll come back in plenty of time, don't you vorry".
DM smiled after the Professor as he left the room. Then he just sat there for a while, thinking things through.
In the main lab, Squakencluck was looking over his notes when one of his assistants came in.
"Professor Squakencluck? There's a small plane approaching the Island. The passengers need to see you straight away".
"Alright zen. Let zem through".
"Yes sir".
"Professor?" DM entered the lab. "I think I'm going to go back now. You will come later, won't you?"
"Zubeviel, of course. In ze meantime, have some fun, ja?"
"OK. See you later on. And - thanks again".
"Zat ist perfectly alright, my boy", said Squakencluck. "Auf Wiedersehen".
"Goodbye!"
*
The Mark III landed outside the Cat and Mouse, and DM got out. he entered the coffee-house.
"Hi, DM", said Max, seeing his friend. "Is everything OK?"
"MAX!" screamed a voice from the back room. "Is DM back? Tell him what his little friends did!"
DM raised and eyebrow at Max as the Persian chuckled.
"Oh, DM, it was priceless", grinned Max. "Kim and Penfold both squared up to Suzanna, and Kim poured drink all over her top! Her EXPENSIVE SKY-BLUE CASHMERE top, from PARIS!"
DM put a hand over his mouth, hiding a smile.
"About time someone did", said Max. "Anyway, your friends are still here - but Kim and Penfold have left too, apparantly".
"Oh". DM gave a disappointed frown.
"But they'll be coming back later. The others are upstairs still. Can I get you a drink?"
DM shook his head no, and then ran upstairs.
"Is it true?" he asked as he entered the parlour. "Did Kim actually do that to Suzanna?"
"You bet!" laughed Jerry. DM brightened at the warmth Jerry was now showing him and sat down beside him.
"Suzanna left screaming blue murder", said Jerry, turning to him. "She really insulted Kim, but Penfold stood up to her. And just as Suzanna is about to sock him one, Kim grabs her wrist and tells her to blow the joint!"
Both of them laughed.
"It was very impressive!" grinned Agent 57. "I never knew Penfold to be so fierce".
"He does have his moments", chuckled DM.
"Hey, DM", said Jerry suddenly. "I wonder - if we could forget everything and - well, you know, clean slate".
"Of course". DM held out a hand and Jerry shook it. "I'm just glad we're finally seeing eye-to-eye".
"After everything you've done for my family - and I owe you my LIFE", said Jerry. "I hope I can do something for you in the future. In fact, is there anything I can do now? Can I buy you anything?"
DM laughed.
"No, thanks, I can't think of anything for you to buy me. Even if I could, I wouldn't ask you to get it anyway".
The two slowed into easy conversation for a while, until Jerry suddenly stopped talking.
"Say", he said. "Is it just me - or - has it gone quiet downstairs?"
"Yes - you're right", said DM, pricking up his ears.
"Something wrong, you think?" asked Colonel K.
"I don't know - stay here". DM got off the couch and made for the door. At that moment though, it creaked open.
"Hi guys", said Kim's voice.
Then the door opened fully - and the whole room gave a gasp.
