Love at Sea
By: luvsraven
Chapter Eight : New Helic City!!!
Sophia woke slowly from the most beautiful dream. Irvine found out that she is a mermaid, and he took her
into his arms to kiss her lips softly, and then he said that it didn't matter if she has a tail or no tail, the
important thing is that he loves me. She tried to stay in the dream, hating to wake when the taste of his
lips still lingered upon her own. It had all felt so very real.
But as Sophia's eyes fluttered and opened, she realized that it had not entirely been a dream. While she
slept, somewhere along the way both she and Irvine had moved toward the center of the bed. He seemed
still deeply asleep, despite the hold he had around her waist and the hand he had curved to cup her cheek.
Sophia's breath came faster, wondering what was going on. Had he actually been kissing her while she
was asleep? Was he dreaming?
And then her thoughts fled in a rush as Irvine hugged her tightly, pressing her to him. Sophia smiled and
hugged him in return. She carefully, ran her hand through his soft hair. Feeling so sleepy she looked out the
window and it was still raining heavily. She diverted her vision to the clock and it was only 12:30. She closed
her eyes, snuggled close, she lay head on his shoulder and drifted back into sleep.
Soon after Sophia went back to sleep the rain stopped and the full moon's bright is shining down through
their window and, Irvine slowly opened his eyes. He looked down and saw Sophia so close to him. He then
noticed his arm is tangled around her waist and the other hand had curved cupping Sophia's cheek. He
quickly withdraw his hand cupping her face and placed it around her waist accompanying the other.
He suddenly felt Sophia shiver, she had seemed to kick away the blanket covering her. He smiled and
covered them both, using his blanket. He starred at her face, she was smiling. Her face was clearly
illuminated and silvered by the moon and stars. Locks of hair spilled all over the both of them. Irvine did not
stop the urge to push some of the offending strands off her pale face. When he did, he instantly regretted
coming into contact with her skin. It was soft to touch, and he brought his hand down to caress it lightly. This
elicited a soft sigh from Sophia, causing Irvine to draw his hand quickly. He did not want her to know that
he was watching her sleep.
His eyes wandered to her full lips unconsciously, and he looked away hastily, a slight blush on his cheeks.
Contrary to popular belief, he was human, and he was capable of reddening, though in less quantities. He
then looked out the window and saw a star shining brightly. He again looked at Sophia, and smiled. He
hugged her close to him and rested his head on top of her head and slowly went back to sleep.
Early the next morning, Van and Fiona went in Irvine's room to find the two tangled together. Their arms
around each others waist. Sophia's head rested on his shoulder and Irvine's head rested on top of Sophia's
head.
"Oh, look at their faces. They are both smiling", Fiona said in a low voice avoiding to wake them up.
"Fiona, you have your camera, don't you? Let's take pictures of them", Van whispered.
Fiona nodded and took out her tiny camera and took four pictures of them. Van shook Irvine lightly,
Irvine's eyes fluttered.
"What do you want? Can't you see I'm sleeping?", said a very angry Irvine and closed his eyes.
"Oh, we're sorry Irvine. I didn't know that you and Sophia....", Fiona trailed out.
Irvine's eyes popped open, he then quickly removed his hands from Sophia's waist. Then, he slowly
removed Sophia's arms around him and sat up slowly, avoiding to wake her up.
Fiona then climb on the bed and shook Sophia, "Sophia....Sophia wake up. We're almost in New Helic City".
Sophia slowly opened her eyes,and smiled. "Oh, good morning Fiona, Thomas, Irvine". Irvine looked nodded
as a sign a 'to you too'. Sophia sat up and got to her feet and stretched.
"Well, now that everyone's awake. Let's get some breakfast!....Oh, before that Sophia, Irvine the two of
you should take a bath. I brought you some of Moonbay's old clothes for you to wear, until we buy new
clothes for you later. Come on, Van!", Fiona said and waved.
"Oh and Irvine...we took pictures of the you two hugging each other", Van said and he ran for his life.
"WHAT?!!", Irvine fumed. "Come back here, Van!".
"Uh, Irvine....", Sophia's voice sounded shaky.
Irvine turned around with his fists right in his face. "What is it?". Irvine stopped cursing and moved his fists
down. "What's the matter Sophia?...Why....why are you cying?".
Sophia wiped the tears with her hand, "I'm...sorry".
Irvine walked over to her and hugged her, "Hey, you don't need to be sorry. It's not your fault".
"No! It's my fault you got angry at Van! You're supposed to be mad at me and not at Van!", Sophia blurted.
Irvine hugged her tighter, "It's ok. It's my fault, I hugged you last night. Sorry".
There was a long silence between the two. "Really? Why did you hug me?", Sophia asked.
Irvine broke the hug and immediately changed the subject. "You go take a bath first".
Irvine brushed the remaining tears with the back of his tumb and gave Sophia a towel and clothes which,
Fiona brought for her. And he motioned Sophia into the bathroom.
Sophia filled the tub a warm water and started to undress herself and slowly walked in the tub. Her legs
immediately transformed into her red tail. She splashed around, and got the soap to clean herself.
Meanwhile, Irvine lay back on the bed, closed his eyes and remembered what happened last night. How
soft her skin was. How she looked under the moonlight. Her pale face seemed to shine under the
illuminated and silvered by the moon and stars.
And then he wondered how did his hand found it's way to cup her cheek. Was he about to kiss her? Or was
he going to do something he might regret? Why?! Why did he hugged her close to him? And why did she
hugged him in return?
Irvine knew it has something to do with 'love'. He knows that he is little by little falling for her. But, the
question remains. Does she feels the same way about him?? But, he loves his friends, why does he feels
he loves her more than friends? Why didn't he love Fiona? Oh, right! Fiona clearly loves Van and Van feels
the same with Fiona. Then, why not Moonbay? Give me a break! I don't need to tell you that! Hmm, then
that leaves her....but, why on earth her?!
He wasn't complaining afterall,....he was just curious. Just then, he felt a tap on his shoulder and he opened
his eyes and saw Sophia's face only inches away from his. A blush crept to his face and Sophia moved back.
Irvine took a look good at Sophia and his jaw hung open and his eyes widened. She was wearing a blue
shirt, a sky blue mini skirt, white boots up to her knees and of course she is still wearing her necklace. She
looks so hot!!!
She spread her arms and twirled around, "Well, how do I look?". She frowned when, Irvine didn't answer
and he only starred at her with his jaw hung open. "That horrible, huh?", she crossed her arms.
Irvine quickly stood up and without thinking he held her hands, "No....no...it's not like that.....you....you
look....ravishing. I mean it".
Sophia blushed, "Really? I do?.....well, now it's your turn! Impress me!".
Irvine smirked, 'Oh I will' he thought. He then let go of her hands and got his towel and went in the
bathroom.
When, Sophia heard Irvine locked the door. She jumped on the bed happily, 'He...he thinks I'm...ravishing!',
she thought with a BIG smile on her face. She can't seem to stop smiling, it feels so good! She sat there
looking like a clown, you know with the big smile playing on her lips, for mins. She then hopped out of
the bed and looked herself in the mirror. She twirled and twirled until she felt dizzy and suddenly lost her
balance. She suddenly felt strong arms caught her in time.
She felt as if the world is going around and around and around. Then, it stopped her vision became normal
again. She touched the two strong arms around her waist, she smiled and looked behind her. It was...Jake!
NO just kidding!!!!! It was Irvine, he was grinning.
"Got dizzy, fairy princess?", he asked mockingly.
Sophia laughed, "Maybe. Maybe not. Your choice".
Irvine helped her stand on her feet. She noticed he wasn't wearing the same shoes he has wearing before.
He was wearing a black rubber shoes, her eyes trailed up, his black leather jacket covering his white
undercoat, trousers... but he seems very formal and he looks like he's a gentleman. What surprised her
more is the way he looks at her. He seems so solemn and his eyes show a sparkle of excitement.
She was speechless! He...he looked so handsome in his outfit! She starred at him, and took a step forward.
Her eyes grew wide as she felt his arms wrapped around her, he then slowly leaned closer. Without
thinking she reached for his head, she closed her eyes slowly waiting for their lips to meet. Just when they
were only centimeters apart a knock came on their door.
They broke away from each other, Irvine coughing. "Who is it?".
"Who is it? Ok, you asked....It's me, Thomas the greatest! Now, get out of there and eat breakfast before
we arrive! An oh, you better eat A LOT, to full your energy tank! We have a long day ahead of us!", Thomas
yelled, from the outside.
Sophia looked away, not wishing to look at Irvine. Irvine embarssed on what he could HAVE done good
thing it didn't thanks to Thomas! He then heard footsteps fading, he glanced at Sophia and held her hand.
He squeezed it tightly, making her look at him.
He smirked, "Impressed?".
She smiled...thank goodness! After what almost happened he still could make her forget it all and makes
her smile! She punched him lightly and laughed, "Yes I am. You look...handsome".
They laughed and walked out the door and made their way to the cafe. They walked in and ervyone was
there even, Herman and Jake. They together and noticed there are no more chairs left. They spotted a
table for two by the window.
"I assume something happened last night?", Dr. D asked sipping from his coffee.
Irvine and Sophia looked at Dr. D confusingly, "What are you talking about?".
Moonbay eyed Irvine, "Well, that gave it away", she said pointing at their hands. They totally forgot! They
were still holding their hands. They instantly let go and looked away from each other.
"Nice outfit Irvine", Fiona commented.
Irvine looked at Fiona, seeing her putting A LOT of salt in her coffee. He sweatdropped,"Uh, thanks Fiona".
Moonbay stood and circled Sophia, "Well, well...looks like my old outfit fits her perfectly! Don't anyone
thinks so?".
"Defintely!", Jake said amazed.
"See Moonbay? That outfit doesn't fit you anymore because you've gotten fat!", Dr. D said, sympatheticaly.
Moonbay stayed cool, "You'll pay for that Dr. D! But, now...the two of you should eat cause...we're going
to have fun today! And party all night long!!".
Sophia and Irvine sweatdropped. They sat down and they avoided everyone's glances. Irvine looked out the
window, hating the thought when they arrive in New Helic City a lot of guys will surely want to meet
Sophia and he'll have a competative love life. Sophia in the other hand kept starring at her necklace,
wondering what's happening back in her home. She felt as if something or someone is after her, she erased
the thought out of her head, if there is something or someone is after her Irvine will be there, won't he?
A guy is walking at the shores of Star Island, his dark hair is shining in the daylight and his amber eyes full of
anger with a mix of determination.
"I will find you, my Sophia. You can run but, you can't hide from me!", he yelled as he went in the forest and
went to his secrect hiding place. He got out carrying a bag with a black baggy pants, a pair of shoes, a
black shirt and, a map. He held a glass ball in the other hand.
"With this glass ball, I don't need the King's power to turn my tail into feet. It seems that my Sophia went to
a place so called New Helic City. All I have to do is swim across the sea and I'll be there in one day. Wait, for
me Sophia, you WILL be my Queen and I, will be your King! Hahahahaha!!!!!".
The Whale King landed out in the city. The Blade Liger came out then, the Dibison, Teras, Lightning Saix,and
last the Saber Fang. Once the zoids were out, the Whale took off and left. Sophia hopped out of her very
first zoid.
"Sophia, I'm impressed! You're a fast learner!", Fiona exclaimed.
"Yeah! Even I, had problems operating my old zoid the Shield Liger. I feel you'll become a great zoid pilot
someday", Van commented flashing his famous grin.
Sophia smiled, "Really? You...think so?".
"Ok, now we're here....let's shop!!!", Moonbay screamed in excitement.
They hid their zoids behind the hotel they are staying in. They first ate their lunch and checked out their
rooms. They took 6 rooms and Zeek will stay with Fiona for protection.
They went out and went in the mall nearest to their hotel and went to the girls clothes department to find
new clothes for Sophia to wear. Moonbay ran to a few racks of fashionable clothes, while Sophia and Fiona
sweatdropped, none of them seen Moonbay like this...hyper. The three men and the organoid sat near a
bench to keep a close eye on the ladies. But, to Irvine he doesn't seem worried because when Moonbay's
with them no guy could walk up to them.
Sophia and Fiona walked up to the guys sitting on the bench looking already tired. "You guys should have
fun, rather than sitting there waiting for us to finish shopping", Fiona said.
"It's ok Fiona", Van reassured.
Moonbay then came back with a sales lady holding up a bunch of clothes in her hand. She motioned Sophia
to the fitting room and the sales lady will help her try the clothes. While, Moonbay told the guys to move
the bench closer to the fitting room so, when Sophia comes out they'll how she'll look like.
The sales lady came out first, "Ms. Moonbay, she's shy and won't come out".
Moonbay walked in the fitting room and pushed Sophia out. Sophia took a long breath and walked out for
the others to see. When, she came out the other guys who was just passing by stopped and looked in awe.
So did Irvine, Van and Thomas, they sat there their jaws hung open. Sophia is wearing a white blouse, a
brown capri pants with strings falling down her knees, and with matching brown heels.
"Well, what do you guys think?", Sophia asked shyly.
Irvine stood up and walked up to her and smiled, "You...you look...gorgeous", he whispered.
The guys who stopped walking, cheered and whistled, "Yeah baby! You look hot! Wanna go out with me?!".
Irvine glared to the crowd, and pulled Sophia back to the fitting room. Where, Moonbay stood there
clapping her hands, "I did a good job!".
Irvine didn't argue, she really did a good job. "So, Irvine? What can you say? And what did Thomas and Van
said? I didn't heard any of your comments because of those guys out there cheering", Moonbay asked, in a
triumph tone and took out her camera a took a picture.
"Actually, Van and Thomas didn't say anything...they were speechless..."
Just then, Van and Thomas came in yelling something like..."You look great, beautiful, magnificent,
enchanting and gorgeous!!".
Moonbay pushed Sophia back again in the fitting room and got her ready for the next outfit. She came out
and gave the previous outfit Sophia was wearing. And she came out now, wearing a violet shirt, a pink
skirt, white boots and, a white bag.
Just then, the guys outside the fitting room got tired of waiting and bursted in. Zeek and Fiona, who is on
top quickly squeezed thorugh and tried to make a wall Van and Thomas helped backing the guys off.
"We are from the Guardian Force!!! So, back off!!!", Thomas yelled as he held up his necklace. But, no guy
seemed to care.
Moonbay then got a great idea, she quickly opened the door good thing Sophia was just coming out to see
what was going on, Moonbay took advantage of this chance and took a picture. And Moonbay pushed
Irvine in and locked them both in the room.
"Moonbay! What are you up to?!", Irvine yelled popping his head up.
Moonbay winked, "You'll thank me for this!" and she and the sales lady went to get the police, while the
others are trying their best to stop the crowd.
Sophia stayed quiet and simply stood there, with Irvine's back infront. Then, Irvine sighed and turned
around to see Sophia wearing a black dress, a black choker with a pearl in the middle, and black high heels.
He blushed and hastily looked away. "God damn it, she looks hot", he murmured.
Sophia looked at him, "Did you say something?".
Irvine looked back at her, "Uh...yeah...I said the guys out there is really into you".
"What do you mean 'into me'??"
"Uh, never-nevermind"
"Oh ok, uh...hey do you like this dress? I think it's beautiful", Sophia said as she twirled and clumsily again
fell back to Irvine.
He smiled, "I think you're doing this purposely", he said playfully.
Sophia quickly moved away from him and crossed her arms, "It's...it's getting stuffy in here".
"Well, how do you expect us to get out of here? There is a crowd of guys going wild over you"
"Well, if we give them what they want? They will stop this racket before they get hurt"
"What?!". 'There is no way in hell in giving you to them!', he thought to himself.
"Come on give me boost!", Sophia said as she motioned Irvine to kneel and she sat on his shoulder.
The guys saw her and lowered their noise, "Uh, hi guys!". Then, the guys clapped their hands and a guy
shouted, "Can you be my girlfriend?!".
Irvine cursed himself, "You don't even know her!!!".
Then, another yelled, "Why?! Are you her boyfriend?!!". Then, the crowd got noisy again.
Thomas Van and Zeek got fed up with this crowd, so Van counted 1...2...3 and they pushed with all their
might and the crowd dispersed. Fiona hugged the three for a fine job and ran towards the door and opened
it. Irvine kneeled back down and Sophia got out of the room with Irvine following close behind.
"Woah!!! Sophia, you are going to be a star!!", Thomas commented as he panted.
Sophia shook her head, "Naw, I don't like that kind of attention".
Moonbay then came back with a lot of money in her hands. "Now, where did you get those money? And
what did you accomplished locking me and Sophia in the fitting room?!", Irvine asked angrily.
"Well, I thought the two of you should just be together in one room AGAIN, that's all. And these money....
oh I got it from those guys who admires Sophia that's all. I made a lot of copies of the shots I took of Sophia
and they saw me and wanted one. Here I have three more pictures extra of the two captured shots", and
she handed Irvine, Van and Thomas each.
"May I see?", Sophia asked Van and Van handed her the photos.
Sophia's eyes widened, "Wha-what the?! Is this really me?!".
"Why, yes! The beautiful Sophia!", Thomas said as he placed the pictures in his wallet.
"I look....great!", and everybody fell anime-style.
"It's not safe for us here, especially you Sophia. Those guys might be back, we should go to another mall",
Fiona suggested.
"You are right, Fiona!", Irvine second the motion and stuffed the photos in his pockets.
"Wait! I like this dress, Moonbay!", Sophia said.
"Ok, ok! Take it off and give it to the sales lady", Moonbay said as she gave Sophia money to pay for it.
"We'll be just outside, ok?.......Irvine you coming??".
"Uh,...no I just wanted to keep her safe....from those guys", Irvine said unsure.
"Yeah...riiiiiight. Hehehehehe", Thomas said, raising his eyebrow and Van giving him a thumbs up.
When, Sophia got out she saw Irvine leaning againts the wall with his hands stuffed in his pockets.
"Oh, Irvine you didn't wait for me outside? Why?", she asked even though she knew the answer.
"Just wanted to keep you safe, that's all", he said as he took the clothes and gave it to the sales lady. "Here
you pay for it, because if we go out there those guys will see her and make a commation again".
"Yes, sir", and she walked to the counter and came back with two big bags.
Sophia hugged his left arm and Irvine blushed. They walked out together and saw Moonbay got a cab ready
and they went to the next mall. They did the same thing but, this time more carefully. It took awhile to
convince Irvine and the guys to have their own fun and they'll just meet back to a cafe called, Peira.
In the arcade, Thomas challenged Van to a actual zoid battle. Thomas is using the Saber Fang and Van used
a Storm Sworder. And obviously Van won 10 times in a row. Irvine stood there behind them and took out
the pictures and starred at Sophia's innocent face then to her eyes.
Just then, he heard a guy behind him said, "Hey dude! I saw this hot blonde in the next mall, she is wicked
gorgeous!".
"Oh yeah?? What's her name?", the other asked.
"I don't know but, here's a picture of her", and he handed the picture to the other guy.
"Dude! She IS HOT and SEXY! Let's hope we see her in this mall".
Irvine tapped Van on his shoulder, "I'll go early to the cafe, meet you guys there".
"Yeah, ok", Van replied not exactly listening to him.
"Aha! I hit you Van!", Thomas cheered happily.
Irvine sighed and went to the cafe only to find guys crowding in a table, he squeezed through and saw
Sophia signing autographs. Sophia saw Irvine in the crowd, "Irvine!!", her voice sounded helplessly.
He shoved the other guys and made his way to her. "Sophia, what's going on? Where is Moonbay, Fiona,
and Zeek?".
"I kinda got seperated from them, and I didn't know where you guys are.... So, I thought I'd wait here for
you guys and this happened", Sophia said as she signed more autographs.
Irvine got fed up, just the though a lot of guys wanted to meet her, and all this autograph signing. He
clentched his fists and pushed the other guys away.
"Hey! What's the big idea?!", the guys yelled.
Irvine walked over to Sophia and hugged her, "Listen, you jerks! I'm Sophia's boyfriend and you better not
take her away from me!! You understand?!".
Sophia's eyes widened and blushed. "Wha-what are you talking about?", she whispered.
Irvine didn't paid any attention to Sophia. He had his eyes fixed on the other guys who, looked back at him
with anger in their eyes. "Well, what are all looking at?! Get away!!".
The other guys then moved back and left leaving the two alone. Irvine then let go of Sophia, "You ok?".
Sophia looked away, "Uh...yeah...thanks".
Irvine sighed, "Sorry, about that. I just said I'm your boyfriend so, that they won't bother you anymore".
Sophia felt a little disappointed, "Oh, ok...thanks anyways".
They both just sat there in silence, just waiting for the others to come. Sophia then excused herself to go to
the girls room. Irvine sat there thinking away to have fun. He then got an idea and went over to the
counter. Sophia came out the girls room and noticed Irvine waiting for her outside the restaurant.
She walked over to him and asked, "What are you doing out here?".
"Waiting for you,....let's go!", he grabbed her hand and they ran out the mall.
End of Chapter Eight
By: luvsraven
Chapter Eight : New Helic City!!!
Sophia woke slowly from the most beautiful dream. Irvine found out that she is a mermaid, and he took her
into his arms to kiss her lips softly, and then he said that it didn't matter if she has a tail or no tail, the
important thing is that he loves me. She tried to stay in the dream, hating to wake when the taste of his
lips still lingered upon her own. It had all felt so very real.
But as Sophia's eyes fluttered and opened, she realized that it had not entirely been a dream. While she
slept, somewhere along the way both she and Irvine had moved toward the center of the bed. He seemed
still deeply asleep, despite the hold he had around her waist and the hand he had curved to cup her cheek.
Sophia's breath came faster, wondering what was going on. Had he actually been kissing her while she
was asleep? Was he dreaming?
And then her thoughts fled in a rush as Irvine hugged her tightly, pressing her to him. Sophia smiled and
hugged him in return. She carefully, ran her hand through his soft hair. Feeling so sleepy she looked out the
window and it was still raining heavily. She diverted her vision to the clock and it was only 12:30. She closed
her eyes, snuggled close, she lay head on his shoulder and drifted back into sleep.
Soon after Sophia went back to sleep the rain stopped and the full moon's bright is shining down through
their window and, Irvine slowly opened his eyes. He looked down and saw Sophia so close to him. He then
noticed his arm is tangled around her waist and the other hand had curved cupping Sophia's cheek. He
quickly withdraw his hand cupping her face and placed it around her waist accompanying the other.
He suddenly felt Sophia shiver, she had seemed to kick away the blanket covering her. He smiled and
covered them both, using his blanket. He starred at her face, she was smiling. Her face was clearly
illuminated and silvered by the moon and stars. Locks of hair spilled all over the both of them. Irvine did not
stop the urge to push some of the offending strands off her pale face. When he did, he instantly regretted
coming into contact with her skin. It was soft to touch, and he brought his hand down to caress it lightly. This
elicited a soft sigh from Sophia, causing Irvine to draw his hand quickly. He did not want her to know that
he was watching her sleep.
His eyes wandered to her full lips unconsciously, and he looked away hastily, a slight blush on his cheeks.
Contrary to popular belief, he was human, and he was capable of reddening, though in less quantities. He
then looked out the window and saw a star shining brightly. He again looked at Sophia, and smiled. He
hugged her close to him and rested his head on top of her head and slowly went back to sleep.
Early the next morning, Van and Fiona went in Irvine's room to find the two tangled together. Their arms
around each others waist. Sophia's head rested on his shoulder and Irvine's head rested on top of Sophia's
head.
"Oh, look at their faces. They are both smiling", Fiona said in a low voice avoiding to wake them up.
"Fiona, you have your camera, don't you? Let's take pictures of them", Van whispered.
Fiona nodded and took out her tiny camera and took four pictures of them. Van shook Irvine lightly,
Irvine's eyes fluttered.
"What do you want? Can't you see I'm sleeping?", said a very angry Irvine and closed his eyes.
"Oh, we're sorry Irvine. I didn't know that you and Sophia....", Fiona trailed out.
Irvine's eyes popped open, he then quickly removed his hands from Sophia's waist. Then, he slowly
removed Sophia's arms around him and sat up slowly, avoiding to wake her up.
Fiona then climb on the bed and shook Sophia, "Sophia....Sophia wake up. We're almost in New Helic City".
Sophia slowly opened her eyes,and smiled. "Oh, good morning Fiona, Thomas, Irvine". Irvine looked nodded
as a sign a 'to you too'. Sophia sat up and got to her feet and stretched.
"Well, now that everyone's awake. Let's get some breakfast!....Oh, before that Sophia, Irvine the two of
you should take a bath. I brought you some of Moonbay's old clothes for you to wear, until we buy new
clothes for you later. Come on, Van!", Fiona said and waved.
"Oh and Irvine...we took pictures of the you two hugging each other", Van said and he ran for his life.
"WHAT?!!", Irvine fumed. "Come back here, Van!".
"Uh, Irvine....", Sophia's voice sounded shaky.
Irvine turned around with his fists right in his face. "What is it?". Irvine stopped cursing and moved his fists
down. "What's the matter Sophia?...Why....why are you cying?".
Sophia wiped the tears with her hand, "I'm...sorry".
Irvine walked over to her and hugged her, "Hey, you don't need to be sorry. It's not your fault".
"No! It's my fault you got angry at Van! You're supposed to be mad at me and not at Van!", Sophia blurted.
Irvine hugged her tighter, "It's ok. It's my fault, I hugged you last night. Sorry".
There was a long silence between the two. "Really? Why did you hug me?", Sophia asked.
Irvine broke the hug and immediately changed the subject. "You go take a bath first".
Irvine brushed the remaining tears with the back of his tumb and gave Sophia a towel and clothes which,
Fiona brought for her. And he motioned Sophia into the bathroom.
Sophia filled the tub a warm water and started to undress herself and slowly walked in the tub. Her legs
immediately transformed into her red tail. She splashed around, and got the soap to clean herself.
Meanwhile, Irvine lay back on the bed, closed his eyes and remembered what happened last night. How
soft her skin was. How she looked under the moonlight. Her pale face seemed to shine under the
illuminated and silvered by the moon and stars.
And then he wondered how did his hand found it's way to cup her cheek. Was he about to kiss her? Or was
he going to do something he might regret? Why?! Why did he hugged her close to him? And why did she
hugged him in return?
Irvine knew it has something to do with 'love'. He knows that he is little by little falling for her. But, the
question remains. Does she feels the same way about him?? But, he loves his friends, why does he feels
he loves her more than friends? Why didn't he love Fiona? Oh, right! Fiona clearly loves Van and Van feels
the same with Fiona. Then, why not Moonbay? Give me a break! I don't need to tell you that! Hmm, then
that leaves her....but, why on earth her?!
He wasn't complaining afterall,....he was just curious. Just then, he felt a tap on his shoulder and he opened
his eyes and saw Sophia's face only inches away from his. A blush crept to his face and Sophia moved back.
Irvine took a look good at Sophia and his jaw hung open and his eyes widened. She was wearing a blue
shirt, a sky blue mini skirt, white boots up to her knees and of course she is still wearing her necklace. She
looks so hot!!!
She spread her arms and twirled around, "Well, how do I look?". She frowned when, Irvine didn't answer
and he only starred at her with his jaw hung open. "That horrible, huh?", she crossed her arms.
Irvine quickly stood up and without thinking he held her hands, "No....no...it's not like that.....you....you
look....ravishing. I mean it".
Sophia blushed, "Really? I do?.....well, now it's your turn! Impress me!".
Irvine smirked, 'Oh I will' he thought. He then let go of her hands and got his towel and went in the
bathroom.
When, Sophia heard Irvine locked the door. She jumped on the bed happily, 'He...he thinks I'm...ravishing!',
she thought with a BIG smile on her face. She can't seem to stop smiling, it feels so good! She sat there
looking like a clown, you know with the big smile playing on her lips, for mins. She then hopped out of
the bed and looked herself in the mirror. She twirled and twirled until she felt dizzy and suddenly lost her
balance. She suddenly felt strong arms caught her in time.
She felt as if the world is going around and around and around. Then, it stopped her vision became normal
again. She touched the two strong arms around her waist, she smiled and looked behind her. It was...Jake!
NO just kidding!!!!! It was Irvine, he was grinning.
"Got dizzy, fairy princess?", he asked mockingly.
Sophia laughed, "Maybe. Maybe not. Your choice".
Irvine helped her stand on her feet. She noticed he wasn't wearing the same shoes he has wearing before.
He was wearing a black rubber shoes, her eyes trailed up, his black leather jacket covering his white
undercoat, trousers... but he seems very formal and he looks like he's a gentleman. What surprised her
more is the way he looks at her. He seems so solemn and his eyes show a sparkle of excitement.
She was speechless! He...he looked so handsome in his outfit! She starred at him, and took a step forward.
Her eyes grew wide as she felt his arms wrapped around her, he then slowly leaned closer. Without
thinking she reached for his head, she closed her eyes slowly waiting for their lips to meet. Just when they
were only centimeters apart a knock came on their door.
They broke away from each other, Irvine coughing. "Who is it?".
"Who is it? Ok, you asked....It's me, Thomas the greatest! Now, get out of there and eat breakfast before
we arrive! An oh, you better eat A LOT, to full your energy tank! We have a long day ahead of us!", Thomas
yelled, from the outside.
Sophia looked away, not wishing to look at Irvine. Irvine embarssed on what he could HAVE done good
thing it didn't thanks to Thomas! He then heard footsteps fading, he glanced at Sophia and held her hand.
He squeezed it tightly, making her look at him.
He smirked, "Impressed?".
She smiled...thank goodness! After what almost happened he still could make her forget it all and makes
her smile! She punched him lightly and laughed, "Yes I am. You look...handsome".
They laughed and walked out the door and made their way to the cafe. They walked in and ervyone was
there even, Herman and Jake. They together and noticed there are no more chairs left. They spotted a
table for two by the window.
"I assume something happened last night?", Dr. D asked sipping from his coffee.
Irvine and Sophia looked at Dr. D confusingly, "What are you talking about?".
Moonbay eyed Irvine, "Well, that gave it away", she said pointing at their hands. They totally forgot! They
were still holding their hands. They instantly let go and looked away from each other.
"Nice outfit Irvine", Fiona commented.
Irvine looked at Fiona, seeing her putting A LOT of salt in her coffee. He sweatdropped,"Uh, thanks Fiona".
Moonbay stood and circled Sophia, "Well, well...looks like my old outfit fits her perfectly! Don't anyone
thinks so?".
"Defintely!", Jake said amazed.
"See Moonbay? That outfit doesn't fit you anymore because you've gotten fat!", Dr. D said, sympatheticaly.
Moonbay stayed cool, "You'll pay for that Dr. D! But, now...the two of you should eat cause...we're going
to have fun today! And party all night long!!".
Sophia and Irvine sweatdropped. They sat down and they avoided everyone's glances. Irvine looked out the
window, hating the thought when they arrive in New Helic City a lot of guys will surely want to meet
Sophia and he'll have a competative love life. Sophia in the other hand kept starring at her necklace,
wondering what's happening back in her home. She felt as if something or someone is after her, she erased
the thought out of her head, if there is something or someone is after her Irvine will be there, won't he?
A guy is walking at the shores of Star Island, his dark hair is shining in the daylight and his amber eyes full of
anger with a mix of determination.
"I will find you, my Sophia. You can run but, you can't hide from me!", he yelled as he went in the forest and
went to his secrect hiding place. He got out carrying a bag with a black baggy pants, a pair of shoes, a
black shirt and, a map. He held a glass ball in the other hand.
"With this glass ball, I don't need the King's power to turn my tail into feet. It seems that my Sophia went to
a place so called New Helic City. All I have to do is swim across the sea and I'll be there in one day. Wait, for
me Sophia, you WILL be my Queen and I, will be your King! Hahahahaha!!!!!".
The Whale King landed out in the city. The Blade Liger came out then, the Dibison, Teras, Lightning Saix,and
last the Saber Fang. Once the zoids were out, the Whale took off and left. Sophia hopped out of her very
first zoid.
"Sophia, I'm impressed! You're a fast learner!", Fiona exclaimed.
"Yeah! Even I, had problems operating my old zoid the Shield Liger. I feel you'll become a great zoid pilot
someday", Van commented flashing his famous grin.
Sophia smiled, "Really? You...think so?".
"Ok, now we're here....let's shop!!!", Moonbay screamed in excitement.
They hid their zoids behind the hotel they are staying in. They first ate their lunch and checked out their
rooms. They took 6 rooms and Zeek will stay with Fiona for protection.
They went out and went in the mall nearest to their hotel and went to the girls clothes department to find
new clothes for Sophia to wear. Moonbay ran to a few racks of fashionable clothes, while Sophia and Fiona
sweatdropped, none of them seen Moonbay like this...hyper. The three men and the organoid sat near a
bench to keep a close eye on the ladies. But, to Irvine he doesn't seem worried because when Moonbay's
with them no guy could walk up to them.
Sophia and Fiona walked up to the guys sitting on the bench looking already tired. "You guys should have
fun, rather than sitting there waiting for us to finish shopping", Fiona said.
"It's ok Fiona", Van reassured.
Moonbay then came back with a sales lady holding up a bunch of clothes in her hand. She motioned Sophia
to the fitting room and the sales lady will help her try the clothes. While, Moonbay told the guys to move
the bench closer to the fitting room so, when Sophia comes out they'll how she'll look like.
The sales lady came out first, "Ms. Moonbay, she's shy and won't come out".
Moonbay walked in the fitting room and pushed Sophia out. Sophia took a long breath and walked out for
the others to see. When, she came out the other guys who was just passing by stopped and looked in awe.
So did Irvine, Van and Thomas, they sat there their jaws hung open. Sophia is wearing a white blouse, a
brown capri pants with strings falling down her knees, and with matching brown heels.
"Well, what do you guys think?", Sophia asked shyly.
Irvine stood up and walked up to her and smiled, "You...you look...gorgeous", he whispered.
The guys who stopped walking, cheered and whistled, "Yeah baby! You look hot! Wanna go out with me?!".
Irvine glared to the crowd, and pulled Sophia back to the fitting room. Where, Moonbay stood there
clapping her hands, "I did a good job!".
Irvine didn't argue, she really did a good job. "So, Irvine? What can you say? And what did Thomas and Van
said? I didn't heard any of your comments because of those guys out there cheering", Moonbay asked, in a
triumph tone and took out her camera a took a picture.
"Actually, Van and Thomas didn't say anything...they were speechless..."
Just then, Van and Thomas came in yelling something like..."You look great, beautiful, magnificent,
enchanting and gorgeous!!".
Moonbay pushed Sophia back again in the fitting room and got her ready for the next outfit. She came out
and gave the previous outfit Sophia was wearing. And she came out now, wearing a violet shirt, a pink
skirt, white boots and, a white bag.
Just then, the guys outside the fitting room got tired of waiting and bursted in. Zeek and Fiona, who is on
top quickly squeezed thorugh and tried to make a wall Van and Thomas helped backing the guys off.
"We are from the Guardian Force!!! So, back off!!!", Thomas yelled as he held up his necklace. But, no guy
seemed to care.
Moonbay then got a great idea, she quickly opened the door good thing Sophia was just coming out to see
what was going on, Moonbay took advantage of this chance and took a picture. And Moonbay pushed
Irvine in and locked them both in the room.
"Moonbay! What are you up to?!", Irvine yelled popping his head up.
Moonbay winked, "You'll thank me for this!" and she and the sales lady went to get the police, while the
others are trying their best to stop the crowd.
Sophia stayed quiet and simply stood there, with Irvine's back infront. Then, Irvine sighed and turned
around to see Sophia wearing a black dress, a black choker with a pearl in the middle, and black high heels.
He blushed and hastily looked away. "God damn it, she looks hot", he murmured.
Sophia looked at him, "Did you say something?".
Irvine looked back at her, "Uh...yeah...I said the guys out there is really into you".
"What do you mean 'into me'??"
"Uh, never-nevermind"
"Oh ok, uh...hey do you like this dress? I think it's beautiful", Sophia said as she twirled and clumsily again
fell back to Irvine.
He smiled, "I think you're doing this purposely", he said playfully.
Sophia quickly moved away from him and crossed her arms, "It's...it's getting stuffy in here".
"Well, how do you expect us to get out of here? There is a crowd of guys going wild over you"
"Well, if we give them what they want? They will stop this racket before they get hurt"
"What?!". 'There is no way in hell in giving you to them!', he thought to himself.
"Come on give me boost!", Sophia said as she motioned Irvine to kneel and she sat on his shoulder.
The guys saw her and lowered their noise, "Uh, hi guys!". Then, the guys clapped their hands and a guy
shouted, "Can you be my girlfriend?!".
Irvine cursed himself, "You don't even know her!!!".
Then, another yelled, "Why?! Are you her boyfriend?!!". Then, the crowd got noisy again.
Thomas Van and Zeek got fed up with this crowd, so Van counted 1...2...3 and they pushed with all their
might and the crowd dispersed. Fiona hugged the three for a fine job and ran towards the door and opened
it. Irvine kneeled back down and Sophia got out of the room with Irvine following close behind.
"Woah!!! Sophia, you are going to be a star!!", Thomas commented as he panted.
Sophia shook her head, "Naw, I don't like that kind of attention".
Moonbay then came back with a lot of money in her hands. "Now, where did you get those money? And
what did you accomplished locking me and Sophia in the fitting room?!", Irvine asked angrily.
"Well, I thought the two of you should just be together in one room AGAIN, that's all. And these money....
oh I got it from those guys who admires Sophia that's all. I made a lot of copies of the shots I took of Sophia
and they saw me and wanted one. Here I have three more pictures extra of the two captured shots", and
she handed Irvine, Van and Thomas each.
"May I see?", Sophia asked Van and Van handed her the photos.
Sophia's eyes widened, "Wha-what the?! Is this really me?!".
"Why, yes! The beautiful Sophia!", Thomas said as he placed the pictures in his wallet.
"I look....great!", and everybody fell anime-style.
"It's not safe for us here, especially you Sophia. Those guys might be back, we should go to another mall",
Fiona suggested.
"You are right, Fiona!", Irvine second the motion and stuffed the photos in his pockets.
"Wait! I like this dress, Moonbay!", Sophia said.
"Ok, ok! Take it off and give it to the sales lady", Moonbay said as she gave Sophia money to pay for it.
"We'll be just outside, ok?.......Irvine you coming??".
"Uh,...no I just wanted to keep her safe....from those guys", Irvine said unsure.
"Yeah...riiiiiight. Hehehehehe", Thomas said, raising his eyebrow and Van giving him a thumbs up.
When, Sophia got out she saw Irvine leaning againts the wall with his hands stuffed in his pockets.
"Oh, Irvine you didn't wait for me outside? Why?", she asked even though she knew the answer.
"Just wanted to keep you safe, that's all", he said as he took the clothes and gave it to the sales lady. "Here
you pay for it, because if we go out there those guys will see her and make a commation again".
"Yes, sir", and she walked to the counter and came back with two big bags.
Sophia hugged his left arm and Irvine blushed. They walked out together and saw Moonbay got a cab ready
and they went to the next mall. They did the same thing but, this time more carefully. It took awhile to
convince Irvine and the guys to have their own fun and they'll just meet back to a cafe called, Peira.
In the arcade, Thomas challenged Van to a actual zoid battle. Thomas is using the Saber Fang and Van used
a Storm Sworder. And obviously Van won 10 times in a row. Irvine stood there behind them and took out
the pictures and starred at Sophia's innocent face then to her eyes.
Just then, he heard a guy behind him said, "Hey dude! I saw this hot blonde in the next mall, she is wicked
gorgeous!".
"Oh yeah?? What's her name?", the other asked.
"I don't know but, here's a picture of her", and he handed the picture to the other guy.
"Dude! She IS HOT and SEXY! Let's hope we see her in this mall".
Irvine tapped Van on his shoulder, "I'll go early to the cafe, meet you guys there".
"Yeah, ok", Van replied not exactly listening to him.
"Aha! I hit you Van!", Thomas cheered happily.
Irvine sighed and went to the cafe only to find guys crowding in a table, he squeezed through and saw
Sophia signing autographs. Sophia saw Irvine in the crowd, "Irvine!!", her voice sounded helplessly.
He shoved the other guys and made his way to her. "Sophia, what's going on? Where is Moonbay, Fiona,
and Zeek?".
"I kinda got seperated from them, and I didn't know where you guys are.... So, I thought I'd wait here for
you guys and this happened", Sophia said as she signed more autographs.
Irvine got fed up, just the though a lot of guys wanted to meet her, and all this autograph signing. He
clentched his fists and pushed the other guys away.
"Hey! What's the big idea?!", the guys yelled.
Irvine walked over to Sophia and hugged her, "Listen, you jerks! I'm Sophia's boyfriend and you better not
take her away from me!! You understand?!".
Sophia's eyes widened and blushed. "Wha-what are you talking about?", she whispered.
Irvine didn't paid any attention to Sophia. He had his eyes fixed on the other guys who, looked back at him
with anger in their eyes. "Well, what are all looking at?! Get away!!".
The other guys then moved back and left leaving the two alone. Irvine then let go of Sophia, "You ok?".
Sophia looked away, "Uh...yeah...thanks".
Irvine sighed, "Sorry, about that. I just said I'm your boyfriend so, that they won't bother you anymore".
Sophia felt a little disappointed, "Oh, ok...thanks anyways".
They both just sat there in silence, just waiting for the others to come. Sophia then excused herself to go to
the girls room. Irvine sat there thinking away to have fun. He then got an idea and went over to the
counter. Sophia came out the girls room and noticed Irvine waiting for her outside the restaurant.
She walked over to him and asked, "What are you doing out here?".
"Waiting for you,....let's go!", he grabbed her hand and they ran out the mall.
End of Chapter Eight