Chapter 11

Sportacus and Stephanie left Amanda at the sports field and headed for the courthouse. Stephanie seemed to be in a better mood than last night and Sportacus was glad.

"So were you having fun with Amanda?" he asked trying to keep the mood light.

"Oh, yeah. You know there is a lot I can learn from her." Stephanie smiled.

"Like what?" Sportacus asked her.

"She can help me improve my goalie skills and give me advice about college. We actually have a lot in common." She replied.

"Well good. I'm glad that you two are getting along so well." Sportacus kissed her forehead. They had arrived at the courthouse and Sportacus opened the door for Stephanie. Then he led her to where they had to go. The meeting was going to start soon and the town prosecutor welcomed them.

The parole board entered the room followed by a guard, who had Robbie beside him. Stephanie felt a chill run up her spine as Robbie glanced her way. Sportacus pulled her close and whispered in her ear. He always knew the right thing to say. She smiled at him and gave him a squeeze. Then the parole board foreman started the hearing.

"We are gathered her today to deliver our decision on the parole of inmate Robbie Rotten. Both sides have made valid arguments and we have made our decision. Robbie Rotten will you please rise." Robbie and his legal aide rose as the foreman continued.

"Mr. Rotten, while your crime was indeed heinous, we believe that you have proven to be a model prisoner. You will be released after this hearing. However, you will be under strict supervision for a year from this date. A bracelet will be attached to your ankle, which will monitor your movements. You will only be allowed out of your home for your community service and anything your parole officer deems as a necessary outing. Mr. Rotten, you will serve your 300 hours of community service wherever the Mayor deems you are needed. If you break any of these conditions, you will serve out the rest of your sentence back in the LazyTown prison. Do you understand what has been discussed?" The foreman asked.

"Yes, Sir." Robbie answered.

"Then by the power invested in me by the LazyTown Corrections Department and the Mayor, Mr. Rotten you are a free man and this hearing is adjourned." Just like that, Robbie Rotten was free.

Stephanie looked at Sportacus. His jaw was hanging open as the hearing closed. She knew just how he felt. The justice system had seemingly let them down. Gently, Stephanie closed Sportacus' mouth. He looked at her and didn't know what to say. But soon his above-average hero response kicked in and he took Stephanie from the courthouse.

"I'm sorry Stephanie. There is no way he should've been released." Sportacus finally said as the two walked toward the Mayor's house. As they were walking, Pixel came up to them.

"Is everything ok?" He asked.

"Everything is going to be ok. Don't worry." Stephanie had finally opened her mouth. She knew that she could no longer act so fragile. She was eighteen and it was time for her to get her act together. Sportacus marveled at her sudden act of strength.

"Well, all right then. Just so you guys know the other kids and I are going to be playing a little baseball, if you want to join us." Pixel smiled.

"Ok. Thanks Pixel. Maybe we'll see you there." Sportacus said. They parted and Stephanie looked up at her Sportacus. He smiled and asked,

"Are you going to be ok?" Stephanie could tell he was concerned.

"I'm going to be all right. I just have to be strong and that's easy when you're around. I love you so much." She smiled. They arrived at the Mayor's house and Sportacus pulled Stephanie close and gave her a big kiss.

To Be Continued…