The Consequences
Last Updated: 6-06-05
Updated: 17-06-05
Mad Mauser: Sorry about not mentioning you last time. Lack of chances to get on the Internet can do that. Well hello there, glad to have another reviewer who seems to be interested in being a regular. Well you voted for Blossom for first person perspective and having to see Xandra and Boomer. Congrats! Your combination won with extra help from anon. This is a day of history. Hairy Gregory's vote has never lost before. So you found Mojo JoJo and Francis's conversation interesting and you're uncertain if the medicine's worth it. That's understandable, the medicine and it's side effects make it something to seriously consider before taking it. I personally would probably take it but try to do whatever it takes to lower the side effects and if I could go without it for a certain period, I would. That's my personal take on it. Well you're right that the mother is either Blossom or Buttercup, but the black hair wasn't supposed to be a clue of the mother though. I didn't really think about the possible mix up, but it makes a good story so I'll go with it. Yes it's nice that Butch is trying to mend the sister's relationship with Blossom trying to be a better person and all. Well I'm glad you figured out most of the symbolism of Butch meeting Ac. While you're not wrong because what you said was also true and also something I didn't really think about (awesome thought by the way), I was intending to convey something else. I felt it symbolised Butch meeting his own past since he and Ace both used to be villains and Ace knew Butch's past at the most personal level. Because as you noticed Butch has also tried to moved away from his past 'villain' or 'bad boy' image. But you are right about Buttercup's old and New life soon colliding, I mean it's really inevitable. So you were surprised about Butch getting thrown out. Well since you read the past chapters you should recall that Buttercup hasn't changed much with her short temperedness that she's had since childhood. So Buttercup throwing Butch out is just to show that unlike Blossom, she hasn't made a big transformation. At least not one that makes her nicer to those from her past (who she doesn't want to see). Well it didn't go better as you expected and Butch's 'wishful thinking' as you call it just didn't work out. Glad you enjoyed the story so far. I'll be updating much quicker this time. Well I love long reviews so I don't mind. Your hope of a quick update has been granted.
Hairy Gregory: Sorry about your vote losing first of all. But I guess it means more friendly competition with the other reviewers that seem to plan to be regulars. Well even though you lost Lois at least Xandra will be appearing in the fic so that you can find out more about Lois's twin sister. I can see with you not imagining Mojo Jojo extorting money out of fellow shady characters. But remember Francis is being shady more out of necessity than nature. Even though he has become rather shady by nature being forgotten and rejected by his hometown Townsville and all. Yes Mojo Jojo has concern about Francis' physical state. But remember that he also has Sedusa's threat to worry about. So you say the medicine is worth it hmm. Well I can see why with the whole Bubbles and Blossom factor to take to heart. I never really thought of that, good point. I personally would take it too so I can't disagree. But I'd be more careful and try to reduce being harmed by side effects. Yup, it does save hassle despite the price, a very EXPENSIVE price. Susan's adopted daughters do love and care for her. Like you said 'all families argue from time to time' and it's not like they're the next Boomer and Robyn family (definitely not a good or should I say functional family unit). I had actually thought that the hair colour would've given away both biological mother and father of the twins. But at the same I write the story so I'd know the paternity. Well it seems that all reviewers have decided that it's either Blossom or Buttercup, which is true. You say Buttercup. Uh, do you REALLY think Buttercup needs more kids? I don't. I think that would push her to the brink of becoming the next Boomer and Robyn family, if not right over the edge. I mean, she already has kids, unknown to her a cheating husband and is already pissed that Butch came looking for her and thinks her family is still haunting her. I don't think she needs more kids or any other stress (even though more stress is definitely coming). Blossom on the other hand also doesn't need kids with her kid free lifestyle and trying to get away from her past. She already has a sister around who hates her and Blossom personally is ashamed of how she used to be. Not exactly the woman to be in a hurry to be called mummy. Plus she has a blossoming relationship with Butch and a reputation to uphold. Kids given away for adoption reappearing isn't exactly a relationship booster OR a reputation upgrade. Also Blossom has opted for a quieter life in Citysville (not exactly quiet since it IS Citysville, but it gets her away from her family), kids given up for adoption reappearing aint apart of the quiet lifestyle. At least not the quiet I'm talking about. More like the quite sucky lifestyle in my opinion. Feel free to disagree. But I still understand you picking Buttercup especially since she's been absent for a while. Butch going to the club on a whole was a bad idea. Let's face it, he doesn't have any super powers and he doesn't exactly have a posse to back him up. He'd have been better off bringing Blossom along for some protection. Actually scratch that. Buttercup would only go extra crazy and possibly be imprisoned for a double murder. He should've taken Brick or at least not go alone in my opinion. Even though I still believe he shouldn't have gone in the first place. Maybe if he gave warning it would've been better or Buttercup would probably have threatened to make him kiss asphalt in advance if not a full body cast. Yes he's trying to sort things out between Buttercup and Blossom since he loves Blossom, that's true. Yes he'd have lost the element of surprise if he hadn't turned up on Buttercup's 'turf' unannounced. Plus if she had told him no in advance and he still came, he'd be dead; no two ways about it. Remember from the fic 'Repercussions' that Buttercup had already hated Butch, so she wouldn't take it easy on him if he defied her. So you didn't get the symbolism of Butch and Ace meeting, eh? Well it was pretty much that of Butch meeting with his villainous past that he had as a little kid back in Townsville despite trying to get away from it. Ace is more worried about Buttercup leaving to go back to Townsville than Butch stealing Buttercup from him. Remember that Ace is known as a criminal back there and is treated as such. Not exactly the place you want to go back to. Especially with a wife and kids. Like how you thought Buttercup's entrance was nicely timed. I had hoped readers would like it. Thanks. 'in a film, it would've had some big dramatic incidental music playing over it' I agree with what you had wrote, heck I can even imagine it right now. Awesome observation Hairy Gregory. I'm not surprised that you're not surprised by Buttercup's reaction. I also thought it was to be expected. I didn't let Buttercup beat him up badly mainly because he doesn't have his powers anymore. Plus when I think about it, he has to hide the incident from Blossom and it would be hard if he were beaten to a pulp. 'Maybe it was a bit naive, but the line between hopefulness and naivety is a fine one. Time tends to heal wounds, and that was what he was hoping for here. Obviously not enough time for Buttercup yet, though.' That's so true what you wrote because hope does often have a bit of naivety in it for starters (not that to hope is to be naïve). But I do believe that it was a naïve move. Yes he was hoping for time to change Buttercup. But like many hopefuls his hope was crushed and like fewer he got a face full of asphalt to go along with it. Well time hasn't been enough to heal Buttercup, but she also doesn't know of Blossom's transformation or her father's regret of the entire situation that caused her to runaway from home. Ouch, wish you luck with your wrists. Oh and just as I was finishing writing my response to you a small earth quake happened (Sunday June 12, 2005 at about 10:58pm), but it was hard enough to make the computer shake. It frightened me because at first I felt a rumble then I realized that it was an earthquake. My father woke up and asked me if I felt it, which of course I did. He even said that I should turn off the computer but I was way ahead of him. The computer's precariously fixed on a dresser and it shook hard enough to risk falling off the first time, and if it had fallen it would've fallen in my lap. Not an attractive image, a desktop computer falling and breaking in your lap. More like a scary creepy image. Well it's Monday now and I'm finishing up my response to you and very glad that another 'small' quake didn't take place. Hope you enjoy this chapter.
Anon (SithKnight-Galen): Well hello there. Wow, something similar happened to me with the whole lack of internet access and bad case of the flu. Still have the Internet problem but my flu was practically gone by the end of May. Well your vote won! Yay! Let's just say everyone minor or major deserves their time in the sun and has their two cents to contribute to the story. I had honestly thought everyone would've guessed the parents; guess that's my surprise as the writer. Well you'll know soon. No they don't know who their mother is and that WOMAN is my OC Susan. I love her; don't call her 'woman'. Yes, Susan wants them. She loves them whole-heartedly. Well thanks for your review and I hope you enjoy this chapter. And thanks for letting me it was you Sith, at first I thought it was Kim. Glad your back.
Chapter 10
(Following Day at 10 a.m. at 'Years Are Us' a Major Hotel in Citysville)
(Blossom's POV)
I entered the hotel with Butch. I had decided that it would be nice to stay a week at this hotel since it was one of the few major hotels that allowed you focus on a different time and era of your choice. Butch and I agreed that we wanted to go hippie and we even dressed the part and laughed as we arranged for our room in the Hippie wing. The last time I came here I had gone to the section called the 'Era of Science' with my then boyfriend, a scientist ten years my senior. That was two years ago and our relationship had only lasted four months. Now I was here with a man who I wanted to have a relationship with to last a lifetime, Butch Jojo. I was surprised when he told me his last name but when he explained how years ago he went back into that building to save Mojo Jojo (mentioned in the fic 'Repercussions') and how they had connected despite their disagreements before Mojo Jojo died, I understood. I didn't exactly like the idea of my name going from Utonium to Jojo if we ever married, but that was a different matter entirely that could be discussed later. Like when he actually mentioned his interest in marrying me.
"This is going to be fun," I said with a laugh and Butch nodded and smiled, "I love you," I added and kissed him on his swollen cheek.
I wish he'd tell me the details of how come his face is so swollen and scratched. All I know is that he told me that he bucked into an 'old friend'. I'd love to meet that old friend and kick his or her ass. (Blossom's thoughts)
"Thanks," Butch responded softly and blushed.
Suddenly he turned to me and pulled me close. Our lips met the moment he started to lean close because I did the same. We were kissing each other right in front of a whole bunch of people we didn't know. But I didn't care. At least not until I heard a camera flash and I recognized it as a camera from a certain paparazzi photographer.
I immediately broke from our kiss and rushed over to a high pile of luggage. Soon I was holding a photographer up with on hand and ready to crush his camera with the other.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you," I heard a lady say in a sing song voice behind me, "you're already breaking the law by using your super speed and strength in Citysville," she reminded me, "I'm certain you don't want your little date interrupted because you got carted off to jail," she teased, "give my photographer back his camera," she snapped.
I angrily dropped the photographer and slammed his camera into his chest. I got the small satisfaction of hearing his breath whoosh out of him from how hard I had given him back his camera. I then turned to face the woman who I knew as an infamous reporter from Townsville. The same reporter who had done that horrible article on Bubbles which I had found out about when Butch got a call from Brick about it the day after the 'Morebucks Gala'. I felt so sorry for Bubbles and seeing the same reporter face to face made me really angry.
"Mrs. Rema Trick," Rema said and extended a hand to me which I didn't bother to shake, "right, I guess you're angry about the article I did on your sister," she said and returned her hand to her side, "I just did my job and my article on you was much nicer," she said with a smile, "well hello there," she said happily when she finally took notice of Butch who glared at her, "don't tell me the boyfriend hates me too".
"My name is Butch," Butch spat, "you listen to me," he said firmly, "I know you have a job, we all need one to survive in this world unless you're rich," he said frankly, "but I'm not having you threaten my girlfriend and push in her face that you degraded her sister with that lying trash of an article you wrote," he told her, "and you can quote me on that," he said pointedly, "because unlike a lot of those people who you write your garbage about," he said, "I have nothing that you can steal from me with your articles or pictures you get taken by that anorexic looking photographer of yours."
"I'm not anorexic," the photographer muttered angrily, "I'm naturally thin buddy," he added.
"Don't mind him Carlos," Rema said simply, "he's just defending his lady like any man would do," she said and brushed back her waist length sun blonde hair, "so as a professional Bachelor Mr… you never gave your last name before Butch," she pointed out and Butch paled.
I looked at him and nodded. People would know sooner or later.
"Jojo, Butch Jojo," Butch told her and Rema's brown eyes widened while her photographer nearly dropped his camera, "it's already known that my creator IS Mojo Jojo," he added.
"But you took his last name?" Carlos asked incredulously.
"Yes," Butch snapped and Carlos stepped back and Butch realized what he did and looked away.
"Please leave him alone," I pleaded, "he doesn't need this."
"Obviously," Rema said and I nearly fainted when her eyes went to Butch's bruised face, "what happened?" she asked, "can't get behind your bad boy past?" she teased.
"Butch was attacked," I said suddenly and then covered my mouth as Butch looked at me in shock, "we don't want to talk about it," I added quickly.
"Oh my," Rema said and then nodded, "obviously someone has it in for you for some reason," she said suggestively.
"It's not that," Butch tried to correct her, "she just…"
"You were attacked my a woman!" I demanded in shock, "what happened last night Butch?"
"Last night," Rema said slowly and I turned back to look at her, "is there a little trouble brewing in…?" she started to ask.
"There's nothing wrong with our relationship," Butch said immediately, "it's just that I was at the wrong place, at the wrong time and said the wrong things," he explained.
"Wow," Rema stated, "you really know how to be honest yet secretive Mr. Jojo," she told him, "so you two are here on a romantic vacation?" she asked.
"Yes," Butch responded, "and I'm only answering because I know asking questions is apart of your job," he told her, "but I'm not answering rude or extremely personal questions," he made clear.
"Are you saying that you're willing to give an interview?" Carlos put in and I looked at Butch as if he were nuts.
"Only to set the record straight," Butch said frankly, "I'm not afraid of newspapers," he declared.
"Are you crazy?" I snapped after pulling him aside, "she's just going to twist your words," I told him.
"And that will just prove she's a disgusting bitch," Butch told me, "I'm going to back off like I'm scared of some blonde reporter bimbo," he whispered.
"Ahem," Rema said and I fought the urge to shoot her head off with my laser eyes as Butch and I turned our attention back to her, "when can I get the interview?" she asked.
"How about the day after tomorrow?" Butch asked and looked squarely at me, "if you don't want to be apart of this," he said to me, "I'll understand," he added.
I looked into his eyes. I really wanted to stop him from doing this. But he was determined to speak to this reporter for whatever reason.
"I'll be there," I said firmly, "where shall we meet?" I asked Rema.
"How about the Ricardo Club?" Rema suggested, "they keep everything within that place like a church," she continued, "and they'll allow cameras once they know it's an interview and we only turn the camera on after we reach our private booth and turn it off as soon as we leave," she added.
"Where's Ricardo Club?" Butch asked and I nearly slapped myself on the forehead as Rema grinned and Carlos barely stifled a laugh, "what?" he demanded angrily.
"People living in the Amazons and feeding off the land know about Ricardo Club," Carlos said with a laugh, "you're seriously out of it man," he told Butch.
"Sorry if I don't keep up with the latest hot spots," Butch muttered angrily.
"Don't worry honey," Rema said sultrily, "it's good when a guy doesn't know everything that's in," she said, "I should know," she continued, "I married an outback Australian," she added and soon she and Butch were laughing while I stood wondering what the joke was.
"Don't worry Blossom," Butch said obviously noticing my confusion, "just a little laugh over the whole joke of people from outback not knowing fashion or hotspots beyond their khakis and the jungle," he told me, "kind of like the hillbilly jokes," he added.
"I don't think those jokes are funny," I said frankly, "in fact I think they're demeaning."
"Well excuse me for not being Mr. Considerate," Butch spoke up, "it's just a little joke, gosh," he said with open annoyance.
"Obviously you guys have some differences," Rema said and I glared at her.
"Obviously," I heard Butch mutter angrily and I immediately noticed by the look on his face tat he was really annoyed with me, "listen Rema," he said, "we'll meet you Wednesday at 7pm," he told her, "but can I talk to you privately for a sec, I need a favour," he said suddenly and took her aside.
I watched them exchange words as I fought off the temptation to use my abilities to listen in. Soon Butch came back to me while Rema and Carlos waved goodbye and left.
"What were you guys talking about?" I asked.
"Nothing, lets go," Butch said and walked off ahead of me.
I followed him solemnly, knowing very well that he had just lied to me.
(Meanwhile at THE HIM: For Great Health and Fitness Gym and Store)
Susan entered and went straight to her private exercising area. However on entering she saw Him there.
"Hello Him," Susan said formally, "to what do I owe this visit?" she asked.
"You know why," Him responded coldly.
Susan stood her ground. All she could hope was that it had nothing to do with her daughters.
"Lois and Xandra," Him said shattering that hope immediately, "that's their names right?" he asked her, "your daughters," he added.
"Yes Him, MY daughters," Susan responded firmly.
"How long have you known?" Him asked.
"How long have you known?" Susan asked back.
"Since yesterday," Him revealed, "did you and Blossom really think that you could keep the fact that I had kids from me?" he asked her.
"We kept it from you for years," Susan pointed out, "and please note Him that you DON'T have parental custody of MY girls," she told him, "and will never have it," she added.
"Don't tell me what I can't have!" Him exploded in his deep scary demonic voice and Susan stepped back in fright, "I want to see them," he said after calming himself and his voice returned to normal.
"After that!" Susan shouted referring both to his temper and the burn marks he left in the room with his explosion of both anger and his powers, "you're not getting near my daughters you monster!" she cried, "I've never liked you demon and I never will!"
"You will never keep me from my children!" Him shouted, "if I hadn't sensed that explosion of power last night I wouldn't have pinpointed it and figured out that I had kids, twin daughters no less," he said.
"You'll never get near them!" Susan shouted, "you might be rich but you're hated enough in Townsville for me to use that hatred to keep you from my daughters," she declared.
"But you live in Citysville," Him pointed out, "I'm not hated there," he pointed out.
"Not by the corrupt," Susan spat, "and even THEY aren't going to risk social exile by declaring love for a demon, aside from giving you love for being such a great fitness guru."
"Does Blossom know you have them?" Him asked her seriously.
"She gave them to me Him," Susan said, "and I'm not losing my daughters to you.," she added.
"But you can't…" Him started to say.
"I'm not letting my kids get near a demon Him," Susan interrupted, "I might take fitness class here," she said, "but I've never liked you or your kind," she said hatefully.
"Imagine if your kids find out that you hate their father?" Him put forward.
"They'd hate themselves if they found out that they were half demon," Susan countered, "I raised them proper," she added.
"You mean as demon haters?" Him corrected her.
"Lois is unfortunately a bit opened minded but Xandra has it straight," Susan said proudly, "and Lois's outburst of power won't be a regular thing," she continued, "Blossom's methods of keeping her powers locked away simply need to be improved."
"You use some form of incantations to keep their powers locked away?" Him asked already knowing fully well that anti-Chemical X must've been used to neutralize them from having their biological mother's powers, "how low do you go?"
"Well it helps Lois especially to get rid of that usually painful burning feeling she gets quite often under her skin," Susan told him, "yesterday she set her room on fire with her unleashing and has been unconscious ever since," she stated, "thankfully Xandra was out with a co-worker of mine getting ice-cream when it happened," she said, "I told her that her sister was sick again and that we're staying at the 'Years Are Us' Hotel."
"Why are you telling me where you're staying?" Him asked suspiciously.
"Because I know you wouldn't dare go there and risk Fern finding out," Susan said in response.
"What does Fern have to do with this?" Him demanded.
"Do you think it will help her self esteem if she finds out that her husband had kids by another woman?" Susan asked Him frankly, "I also can't have kids Him," she reminded Him, "it would nearly kill me if the love of my life went and had kids by another woman," she said.
"That's not what happened and Fern knows it," Him spat.
"But think about it Him?" Susan asked him, "has Fern ever questioned you about that night about Blossom?" she asked, "does she still question?" she pushed, "because if she does," she said, "this revelation will kill her," she told Him.
"I believe I know my wife best," Him said threateningly.
"And I believe I know what's best for my kids Him," Susan countered, "and I know how painful it was to watch women with their children knowing that I couldn't have kids before Blossom let me adopt hers," she added.
"You won't let me see them?" Him asked her.
"No," Susan said firmly, "they will not be near a filthy demon," she said with great detest.
"Do you think you're protecting them by keeping them away from me?" Him asked her frankly, "their father?"
"You BET I do!" Susan spat angrily, "go back to hell where you came from!" she shouted and stormed out.
Him sighed. He always expected to face hatred from people for being a demon. But never from the mother of his own children.
(2pm at the Years are Us Hotel in Room #69 in the Ancient Greece Section of the hotel)
Xandra sat bored on her bed, which was made in a similar as beds of Ancient Greece. She was wearing an outfit that mimicked those of ancient Greek Goddesses and had a crown of twigs and berries on her red hair. She knew is Lois were here she'd dress like some dark Goddess or want to go the Goth section. She never understood why her older sister was into so many dark and sinister things. By Lois's dress you'd never tell that she was into Gothic Stories, Dark Poetry, any form of study dark beings and everything else that dealt with dark and evil things. Not that Lois was for things like murder but into stuff unaccepted by society like demons and the fundamentals of witchcraft.
Xandra yawned and looked at the clock. Her mother had returned at noon from her fitness training looking very upset. When Xandra tried to ask, Susan got snappy but then apologized and kissed Xandra on the head. Now it was a little after 2pm and Susan had left at 1pm to go check on Lois who was at Citysville hospital.
I hope Lois will be all right. I never understood why our lives have to be so secretive. Even these incantations we have to do once a week are confusing. We had to learn them by our second birthday. But Lois has to do hers four times per week now because her burning has got worse. I wonder if she's being punished because of her love for dark stuff which mummy says is evil and will only bring trouble and bad luck? But if I ask Lois will say that I'm trying to be hurtful on purpose again. But I'm not. I have a right to ask questions and make my opinions heard. People should just listen and shut up. I'm five and already in Junior High along with my older twin sister. People should be extra nice to geniuses and listen to everything they say without complaining. I wonder if my other mother ever had that problem. The mother who abandoned my sister and me. I don't know why Lois is so interested in finding our biological mother. I hate her. What kind of woman gives birth to kids who feel strange sensations or the burnings like what Lois feels? She even had her skin turn totally red five times this year. Last Time it lasted an entire week and Lois actually cried because all the other times it lasted either one or two days. We both knew that if she didn't change her skin colour back to white that we'd be ostracised from society. Both within and outside school. No one wants to be around a red skinned freak or the freak's sister. I was glad when at the end of the week her skin suddenly changed back the following day. Anytime her skin went red she had me tell teachers she was sick. This was accepted because our mother always told anyone who'd take care of us that we had an unidentifiable sickness that made us have to take certain medicines and we had to meditate using 'chants' to help as a way spiritual cleansing. Which was ironic since we weren't religious. But Lois told me to just say that it was a 'natural alternative' to be used along with our medicines if asked by anyone. Most took the excuse at face value, those who didn't were mostly just students who we could ignore or report to teachers for teasing. Lois never reported, she always told the bully off and often got warnings on her behaviour, but it was never recorded because they thought it had something to do with our 'sickness.' I'm bored. I'm going to explore the Hippie section. Last time I was there I met a guy who was a fan of Scooby Doo and he even gave me a set of dolls he had made out of wood of the whole gang. It was painted and everything. Maybe I'll meet a lady this time who'll be wearing one of those rainbow coloured T Shirts with the peace sign on it. I wanted to check into that section but mummy said Hippies were stupid lazy people who wanted everyone to be poor, have babies, be under the male's thumb and smoke weed. I believed their efforts were noble but even Lois thought there rebellion against the established corporate world was naïve and stupid. So I mostly kept my love for hippies to myself. I wonder if I got my love of Hippies from my biological mother. If I did I'll do like my real mother Susan and hate them. I hate my mother who ran off and left me. I HATE her. If her hair is red I'm going to dye mine the same colour as Susan. I wonder if Lois as our biological mummy or Daddy's hair colour. Our mother always told us that our biological Daddy was no good. When we asked why she said it was just so. So I guess my biological mother was an abandoning coward and my father's a bum. I'm glad Susan adopted us. If she didn't I might have been living with that cowardly woman now. I don't want to imagine which hovel she has for a home. Probably has a tar pit for a yard. Ha! Tar Pit! Don't know why I find tar pits funny. Lois says that's my own bit of weirdness. I told her that at least my skin didn't act weird and change colours. That hurt her feelings. I had told her sorry and gave her a hug. She forgave me. I'm going to find the Hippie section now. I might be able to smuggle a hippie shirt and hide it. Mom always keeps tabs on what we buy and what we get once she knows about it. It's hard to get a hippie shirt because everyone at my school thinks hippies are dumb and dirty. Except for Geena Diret, but she's from the slums and since she's into witchcraft I don't talk to her. Lois does sometimes but only sometimes and she has to ensure that mummy didn't find out. She'd get yelled at if mummy did. We've been taught who to talk to and who NOT to talk to. I wasn't going to do like Lois and talk to evil witch loving people. I was just going to talk to a nice peace-loving hippie. Even if mummy thinks their nothing but lazy, poor, baby making, non-feminist or male dependent, and evil drug takers. I like them. I'm going to meet one and ask if they went to Woodstock. Mummy claims Woodstock was garbage. Was it called Woodstock? Who cares? I'm off to see a real hippie! Yay! (Xandra's thoughts)
Xandra hurried out of her hotel room and walked carefully towards her destination. She had to hide from hotel employees who would send her back to her room. She was five after all, Junior High student or not. Soon she saw the entrance, which was covered with rainbow colours and a huge peace sign. Xandra clapped and hurried in. But she bucked into someone and they both fell over. Xandra jumped to her feet ready to runaway but stopped when she realized that the person who she had knocked down was laughing.
"You should be more careful," a lady who Xandra recognized as Blossom leader of the PPGS before it got disbanded, "I hope…," she started to say but stopped and gasped upon seeing Xandra, "You're Susan's daughter," she said in awe.
Xandra raised an eyebrow. Why was someone as important and famous as Blossom Utonium, one of greatest scientist ever awed by her?
"Um, you know my mother?" Xandra asked, "she never told us about you," she added.
"Oh," Blossom said, "but that's not surprising," she said with a flash of her hand, "well I hope you have fun," she said and turned to leave.
"I want to meet a hippie," Xandra said suddenly, "my mother thinks they're dirty and lazy," she told Blossom.
"Susan thinks that?" Blossom asked in surprise and Xandra nodded, "I'm surprised at her!" she cried, "I thought she'd be more open to other cultures and ways of life," she said in an almost reprimanding tone, "I thought she was only closed minded about demons and science creating things smarter than human beings because of her fear of 'robots taking over the world' and everything."
"Do you have a problem with my mother?" Xandra asked curiously.
"No!" Blossom cried hurriedly, "we just share different views on certain things," she explained, "hey," she said with a smile, "want to hear an idea I'm having?" she asked with a conspiring grin.
"What?" Xandra asked.
"What if I take you to meet a real hippie?" Blossom asked and Xandra squealed excitedly then stopped, remembering that despite being five she was both academically and socially advanced, "there's a piece of land with them living not too far from here," she continued, "they wouldn't come here because they don't want to feed the greed of the capitalists or help the 'corporations' make more money," she explained and Xandra looked disappointed, "but ex-hippies might be around," she added and Xandra's face brightened.
"How long will we be gone?" Xandra asked.
"Just a few hours," Blossom said, "I'll leave a note for your mother telling her that you met me and I decided to show you around town and tell you stories of my adventures as a PPG."
"Really?" Xandra asked in absolute awe, "can I get your autograph?" she asked suddenly.
"Sure," Blossom said with a laugh, "but after I leave a note to your mother," she said firmly, "I like your outfit," she added.
Xandra looked at her outfit then looked closely at Blossom's outfit. Blossom had her red hair in a ponytail, a large multi-coloured T-Shirt with a male and female hippie in the middle making the peace sign with their fingers, blue bell bottom pants and brown sandals. She also had a pair of sunglasses tucked on her shirt and a tie died headband. Xandra thought she looked pretty and looked at least a little bit like a hippie.
"Thank You," Xandra said and blushed, "I'm a Greek Goddess," she added.
"Well I think you'd be the Goddess of Delight," Blossom told her, "since you're such a delight to be around," she said and rested a hand on Xandra's shoulder.
"Really?" Xandra squealed, "I think you'll make a nice mummy someday," she said but Blossom's face suddenly went from happy to pained.
"What's wrong?" Xandra asked as Blossom turned away.
"Um, nothing," Blossom said and sniffled, "I think we should hurry and leave that note for your mother," she said in a cracked voice, "I'll just text Butch that I'll be out for a while," she said and got out her cell phone.
"Butch?" Xandra asked as if she tasted vinegar (she's asking because to her it sounds like a dog's name. She doesn't know Butch).
"A male friend of mine," Blossom responded, "done," she said after completing the message and sending it, "lead the way," she instructed and took Xandra's hand.
"I like your red hair," Xandra said as they walked, "it's pretty like mine," she added.
Xandra didn't notice Blossom's face paling suddenly.
"Well yours is a bit deeper red than mine," Blossom said trying to hide her nervousness.
"But it still looks pretty much the same," Xandra told her.
"What's your favourite subject in school?" Blossom asked in desperation of changing the subject.
"Mathematics and Science," Xandra responded, "I'm in Junior High," she said proudly.
"Junior High!" Blossom cried in surprise, "I mean, that's great," she said more calmly, "you must me very smart," she added.
"My sister's there with me too," Xandra told her, "we go to Barding School."
"Boarding School?" Blossom asked incredulously as if it were the most ludicrous thing that she ever heard, "why would Susan send you to Boarding School?" she demanded.
Xandra looked at Blossom in surprise. She just couldn't understand why Blossom was so angry.
"Mom said it was best and also to keep a sort of low…" Xandra started to say but stopped.
"Low what?" Blossom asked seriously, "low what!" she shouted.
"Why are you shouting at me!" Xandra shouted back and Blossom gasped and immediately apologized.
"It's just that Susan promised both of you wouldn't be away from her for prolonged periods and she'd have you around her most of the time," Blossom blurted out, "next thing she let's you stay over on most weekends and send you off to summer camps at summer time," she said as if it were impossible.
"We're not going to camp or any other far thing this summer," Xandra said in response and suddenly Blossom's face went beet red and she clenched her fist.
"You know what Xandra," Blossom said, "how about we stay here and I tell you of my adventures as a PPG and about the hippies I met, especially during and after University?" she suggested.
"But I wanted to see a hippie," Xandra protested.
"Fine," Blossom conceded, "but after we'll come straight back here and wait for your mother," she said firmly, "I'd like to have a word with her about her darling daughter," she stated.
"A lot of people call me darling," Xandra said with a smile, "Mom says it's because of my red hair and my smile."
"Your Mom says a lot of complimentary things I'm certain," Blossom as they continued to head towards Xandra's hotel room.
Too Bad I won't have such darling things to say towards her. Of all the things! I gave up my children to Susan under the promise that they wouldn't have to live a life of practically being parentless and wonder where their mother or father was most of the time while stuck in some Boarding School or holed up in some summer camp. It's selfish of me to not add that I gave them up because I also couldn't handle the scandal and disgrace of being impregnated with Him's child as well as continue my studies under such conditions and of course the idea of parenting at all. I was NINETEEN when I was pregnant and pretty much Twenty when I gave birth to them four months later. Xandra thankfully got the successful eye surgery that I secretly had done so her eyes wouldn't continue to look large and round like mine. The doctor had told me with the use of the anti-chemical X that blindness was a thirty percent possibility but I HAD to risk it. Her head is still a bit round but thank GOD they were both born with fingers and toes. Susan told me that she would've gotten contacts for Xandra. She must have them on now because without some form of eye wear the doctors had claimed that Xandra wouldn't be able to see more than a few feet ahead of her and even then her eyesight would still be hazy. As far as Xandra knows she's always had typical sized human round dark brown eyes. I had named the black haired on Lois so the name Xandra was completely Susan's doing. I would personally have named her Diana, Mary or Rebecca, but Xandra still is a uh nice eh decent name. But I'm still so angry that Susan broke her promise to me! I trusted her! What's next? She didn't listen to me and instead of taking the twins to the demonologist that I referred her to she kept making the girls say that chant that will be way outdated and almost useless now. But wait, if Xandra's here where's Lois? I think I'll ask just to be sure. (Blossom's thoughts).
"Where's Lois?" Blossom asked and she noticed all happy expression on Xandra's face disappear, "what's wrong?"
"I don't know," Xandra said softly, "but Lois is ill again," she said sadly.
"What do you mean again?" Blossom asked.
"We get sick sometimes," Xandra said in a cracked voice, "no big deal," she said but Blossom could tell something was wrong.
"Well I hope your sister gets better," Blossom said instead of voicing her true concern, "now let's get going to see that Hippie!"
"Yay!" Xandra screamed.
(7pm at Buttercup's Residence)
Buttercup slept soundly with her head in Ace's lap.
Suddenly the doorbell rang waking Buttercup while Ace continued to sleep, dead to the world like a rock.
"Bum," Buttercup muttered in annoyance but kissed him on the cheek before going to answer the door.
Standing there in her doorway was a blonde haired woman Buttercup didn't know. She was about five foot seven with beautiful flowing blonde hair, authoritative looking brown eyes, creamy tanned white skin, a petite figure, slightly wide hips but small bust and rather small feet. She was wearing a light purple business suit with a white blouse underneath and purple high-heeled shoes. She also had on diamond studded earrings, a pearl necklace, a gold diamond studded watch, two gold bangles on each hand with rubies dotted all over them (the bangles), a ring on her wedding finger which had a small diamond on it but the ring was glowing with other precious stones of varying sizes all over it which told Buttercup it must've caused a pretty penny, and an anklet with purple precious stones on it on her right ankle. The lady looked like a stunning rich woman from a whole different world. Aside from wondering how she made it here without being robbed, Buttercup wondered why this lady chose her doorstep to dawn upon.
"Hello," Buttercup said formally.
"Hi I'm Rema Trick," Rema responded and held out her hand, which Buttercup shook carefully, "well at you have manners darling," she said approvingly.
"Buttercup," Buttercup told her firmly.
"Yes I know," Rema said, "may I come in?" she asked, "I don't bite," she added with a laugh.
"I never thought you did," Buttercup responded coldly and most of Rema's cheerful exterior faded, "let me make it clear to you lady that first off I have super powers," she said bluntly, "and secondly I'm not afraid to use them and send you hurtling to your death out of my window," she said, "we ARE twelve floors up after all," she pointed out.
Rema gulped and strained a smile. She began to wonder if an interview with Butch and Blossom was worth this potentially life threatening favour.
"Come in," Buttercup then said nicely and stepped aside so Rema could enter.
Rema entered fighting the angry urge to kick Buttercup and make a run for it.
"Nice place," Rema said as she looked around the small apartment.
"It holds what's needed," Buttercup said in response.
"I hear that you run a club," Rema said changing the subject.
"From who?" Buttercup asked suspiciously.
"An old friend," Rema said simply.
"If it's that Butch guy we've never been friends," Buttercup spat, "not even when we found out years ago that he hadn't really died and was also engaged to Princess Morebucks (it's in the fic 'Repercussions')," she told Rema.
"So enemy is the real world," Rema said thoughtfully, "he had told me that he was a friend."
"Well he told WRONG Lady," Buttercup snapped angrily and soon heard some crying in a nearby bedroom, "excuse me," she said and left the living room for a moment.
Rema looked around the apartment.
"If this is what you get with honest living I'm glad I'm a reporter who does whatever she damn well pleases," Rema said frankly then noticed Ace sleeping on the sofa, "Ace? Gang Green Gang Ace?" she whispered as she watched him sleeping soundly, "could those two….no…not the former Townsville hero and a Townsville criminal who disappeared from sight for years in Townsville," she said in disbelief, "Rema you've hit the jackpot!" she whispered excitedly, "thank goodness I have my hidden camera in my pearl necklace and the cuffs of my suit," she said happily.
Buttercup came out with a little boy holding unto her knee who was unmistakably green in skin colour and kept mumbling 'mummy'.
OH MY GOD. My career will be infinite! I'll finally be a billionaire like I always wanted to be. This will make me SUPER famous! Or infamous, whatever. Either way it will get me more money. (Rema's thoughts)
"He just doesn't want to be alone," Buttercup said looking openly embarrassed, "our nanny's out for the night," she explained.
"You have a nanny who sleeps here?" Rema asked incredulously as she looked around the apartment again.
"Yes," Buttercup responded pointedly, "there's room."
"I'm certain," Rema said with disdain, "so you met up with Butch yesterday?" she asked.
"If you're asking me if I threw him out of my club and possibly messed him up because he hit asphalt yes," Buttercup responded, "but his super powers should have healed him soon after," she pointed, "it's not like he's a normal human being or anything," she added with a shrug.
Rema thought about it. Butch's face was still messed up this morning. Soon she cooked up a plot to get the truth out of Buttercup even if Buttercup didn't know the truth herself.
"Well he um mentioned something about his powers giving him trouble," Rema lied as she pretended to be confiding something to Buttercup, "I haven't seem him do anything involving powers since we met a year ago."
"You're in Citysville," Buttercup said bluntly but Rema was prepared.
"Oh but I'm from Townsville and once when he got in a fight with a guy and him, it barely had effect," Rema lied (but she's really from Townsville).
"Wow," Buttercup said starting to look worried, "was his face today…?" she started to ask.
"Yeah it was messed up," Rema said sadly, "his girlfriend was really angry," she continued, "especially when he let it slip that he was hit by a woman," she continued, "his girlfriend is rather possessive and I think secretly violent," she told Buttercup, "it might offend you that I don't like her though," she added but hoped based on the fact that Buttercup had runaway from home that it didn't.
It's the way of the world that the brute and the brains always fight. Rumours even had it that Bubbles even went against that Blossom girl along with Buttercup when they were younger. Guess she wasn't exactly the leader that they wanted. But I always wondered how that vote for leadership went before she left the PPGS as a little girl then returned again as leader after Buttercup ran away? Or maybe there wasn't a vote? Scandalous! (Rema's thoughts)
"Who's his girlfriend?" Buttercup asked.
"You know, Miss Blossom the Perfect," Rema said and rolled her eyes as if Blossom was really a menacing show off.
"Blossom!" Buttercup shouted. "that bitch?" she screamed.
"Oh you think so too?" Rema asked and pretended to sigh in relief, "it seems that I'm the only one who sees through her," she said, "everyone else LOVES her," she said as if it was the most annoying thing ever.
"Well she's no angel!" Buttercup declared, "she's the reason I ran away from home!" she shouted.
PAY DIRT! (Rema's thoughts)
"Well Buttercup," Rema said kindly, "I could help you tell your side of the story," she told her.
"What side?" Buttercup asked suspiciously.
"Well all of Townsville seems to believe that you're the jerkish jealous daughter who ran away from home," Rema said which wasn't far from the truth, "at least that's what's been said," she added.
"Did…?" Buttercup started to ask.
"I can't say," Rema lied pretending to be sorry, "I'm a friend Butch's and I can't say anything against his girlfriend," she said but then pretended to gasp and covered her mouth, "I mean your family and others," she said pretending that she didn't purposely blurt out her earlier sentence.
Buttercup's face went so red with rage that Rema thought she'd explode right within the apartment.
"Where is she?" Buttercup snarled.
"Oh no!" Rema cried, "I can't let them know that I told you this!" she shouted with despair, "Butch would hate me!" she shrieked.
"Oh yeah," Buttercup said thoughtfully, "what can I do?" she wondered aloud.
"Oh I know," Rema said brightly, "I have an interview with Blossom and Butch on Wednesday," she told Buttercup, "you could come," she suggested.
"Wait, you're a REPORTER?" Buttercup asked and it was obvious that she losing trust in Rema.
"Oh I'm not that KIND of a reporter!" Rema cried, "even though some of my articles get exaggerated or altered because of my boss and the editors," she lied, "worst of all that article on Bubbles," she added.
"You did an article on Bubbles?" Buttercup asked.
"Well more like my editors butchered it, slapped my name on it and put it in the papers," Rema lied excellently, "she only made a tiny mistake of entering a Gala in the middle of Princess's speech and…"
"Princess's Speech!" Buttercup screamed, "even I wouldn't have something so crazy and stupid," she said incredulously.
"Well it was obvious that Bubbles had no idea what was going on," Rema said pretending to defend Bubbles, "I think her potential 'returned' boyfriend Brick didn't explain the events of the Gala properly to her if at all."
"Yeah…wait, what do you mean by 'return' boyfriend?" Buttercup started to say but asked a question instead, "they were together when I left, aren't they married and busting out with kids now?"
"Oh you didn't know," Rema said as if she pitied Buttercup, "she recently divorced Mitch and left Citysville with their one child, a boy named Titch," she revealed to Buttercup who looked absolutely shocked.
"I heard that he married," Buttercup admitted, "but to Bubbles?" she asked softly.
"Yes and unfortunately Bubbles claims that he abused her," Rema said fanning the flames.
"That's a LIE!" Buttercup exploded, "Mitch would never do that!" she defended him, "he promised himself that he wouldn't end up like his father," she told Rema.
"Well that's what's going around," Rema said simply, "but her sister and father never approved the marriage," she continued, "well that's what been said," she added.
"Those hypocrites," Buttercup hissed, "I think I'll come to that interview," she said suddenly, "I have a few questions for that red haired witch," she said angrily.
"Okay," Rema agreed, "but I was really sent by Butch with a message that he wanted to speak to you and give you his cell number."
"I don't need his number," Buttercup said firmly, "as long as you have that interview, I'll be there," she declared.
"I'll give you the address and directions," Rema said and did so.
"I think Bubbles should be there," Buttercup said suddenly and Rema could barely hide her panic.
"Uh," Rema said but then had an idea, "I know where she's staying with Brick," she declared, "but I wrote that article that the editors BUTCHERED and I think she'll be furious to see me after an article with my name on it made her look like a complete retard and a blonde ditz," she said uncomfortably as she pretended to feel bad.
"I'll explain everything with Bubbles as long as you let me bring her," Buttercup said.
"Alright," Rema conceded, "but I think it's best that she doesn't know that I allowed her to come," she told Buttercup, "just say you want to expose Blossom,' she suggested, "she won't come after the article if she knows I have ANYTHING t do with her coming," she added when she noticed Buttercup's hesitation.
"Hmmm, Okay," Buttercup agreed, "but I don't want anything changed about this in the papers," she warned, "and I won't tell anyone that I know about you and Butch being friends," she added.
"Oh would you," Rema said happily, "thank you so much Buttercup," she said gratefully, "you're a wonderful person."
"Thanks," Buttercup said, "well I have stuff to do…"
"Oh of course your kids and husband," Rema said quickly, "where's your wedding ring?" she asked.
"Um, there isn't one," Buttercup said blushing and Rema immediately understood this couple not being able to afford a wedding ring.
I'm surprised they could afford a wedding. They obviously married at City Hall. (Rema's thoughts)
"We're not married," Buttercup added and Rema's mouth fell open, "well it's not YOUR business!" she exploded when she saw Rema's reaction.
"Oh I'm sorry," Rema apologized, "I'll just give you the hotel that Brick's staying at with Bubbles and her son," she said and gave it to a seething Buttercup.
"Get Out," Buttercup said coldly afterwards.
"Okay, Bye," Rema said brightly and left the house slowly and shut the door, "whew," she said and let.
SUCKER! (Rema's thoughts)
(Meanwhile at a three-storey home in the suburbs of Townsville!)
Boomer sat in the nursery tickling one of the two year old quintuplet boys who all had blonde hair and blue eyes like him.
"You will be my perfect children," Boomer whispered as he looked across at the other four babies each in a separate crib, "Brenda's a jackass, Rayne's complacent but a bit rebellious and very strong minded and Henry's a bit too happy sometimes for a boy and sometimes make wonder," he listed, "but you and your brothers will be perfect Dwayne," he said and kissed Dwayne on his forehead.
"Oh yes he will be," Miss Norris said and Boomer nearly jumped, "sorry sir," she apologized and Boomer chuckled.
"Still looking out for that little boy even though he's a man now?" Boomer asked.
"You'll always be the young man that I raised," Miss Norris responded, "I see that you have great things in mind for Dwayne, Charles, Cain, Theodore and Anthony," she said.
"Greater than for the other children," Boomer said not hiding his detest.
"If I may say Sir," Miss Norris said formally, "I think you're being hard on Henry," she declared, "the girls I can understand," she said frankly, "but Henry's really trying to keep an optimistic standpoint despite well, the family situation," she told him.
"Family situation?" Boomer asked.
"I truly think that Robyn's attitude is having a negative effect on the children," Miss Norris stated, "she's been getting more boisterous than ever and is so intent about mansions and spending more money that it's disgusting," she said, "and you two arguing isn't have a good effect on any of the children," she said sadly, "I think you two should either try counselling or…" she stopped and looked away.
Or what?" Boomer asked with concern as he noticed the distress on his own former nanny's face.
"I promised with my upbringing that the word would never pass my lips as a suggestion or even option for any marriage," Miss Norris said tearfully, "a divorce," she said after taking a dramatic gasp.
"But you can't be serious!" Boomer cried incredulously, "you're absolutely against divorce!" he reminded her.
"I know Sir," Miss Norris said as she sniffled and wiped the sides of her eyes, "but I believe that Robyn's anger lies mainly in resentment of not furthering her education, not believing that you truly love her and frustration with the children," she listed.
"What the HELL am I supposed to do about that?" Boomer demanded angrily and soon three babies started crying, "damn it!" he cried.
"Don't curse in front of the babies!" Miss Norris cried and quickly took up Charles and Cain and started to comfort them, "you quiet Dwayne," she ordered and started to rock and shush the two babies she held.
Boomer muttered but he rocked the crying Dwayne and told him sweet words. Soon both babies stopped crying. But they now stared at their holders and Dwayne started to suck his thumb. Boomer's face started to go red because he HATED that. Miss Norris immediately got Dwayne's pacifier and soon the baby was contentedly sucking that instead of his thumb. Soon Boomer's face went back to normal and his blood stopped thundering in his ears.
"I've been avoiding this," Miss Norris said softly, "but you have to do something about your temper Boomer," she told him seriously.
Suddenly Boomer was on his feet and his face was the deepest red ever. Miss Norris said something but he couldn't hear because of his blood now thundering in his ears a billion times louder this time. Then Miss Norris sighed and sat on a chair beside the crib and paid no attention to Boomer. Boomer stood there a whole five minutes glaring at Miss Norris. Then he started to calm down and sat back down feeling very silly.
"What's wrong with me Miss Norris?" Boomer asked softly after looking into Dwayne's face and seeing that his own baby looked scared of him.
"You've been very angry for years Boomer," Miss Norris responded, "Fern said you came to her rebellious and angry, when I came you were still rather angry and even after you became subdued you still had that angry streak in you," she told him, "you have an anger problem Boomer," she said, "and it's getting really serious," she added.
"But what am I supposed to do?" Boomer demanded loudly, "it's not my fault!" he shouted and in his anger jerked the baby harshly.
Miss Norris gasped and after putting down a sleeping Cain in his crib, she took Dwayne away from Boomer.
"I will not have you snapping the baby's neck in half," Miss Norris hissed as she gently rocked the baby who moments ago looked to be on the verge of crying, "you could've dislocated something you know," she snapped at him then went all the way to the other side of the room with the babies she held.
Boomer watched Miss Norris as she made cooing noises at the babies and heard his babies laughing in response. He really wanted his family to be happy. But how was he supposed to do it?
I need to speak to Blossom. (Boomer's thoughts)
Chapter 10 Done
Reggae: I'm certain they're reviewers who're ready to complain that I'm not nice enough to some characters or that I'm mean. Tough. Anyway, I hope readers enjoyed this chapter and anyone who's upset that Boomer's part couldn't be longer I can't help you. What did you think of Blossom and Butch's relationship before Rema's photographer tried to sneak a photograph? What did you think of it after Rema left? What do you think of Rema herself? What do you think of Carlos? What did you think of the interaction and attitude Butch and Rema had towards each other from the moment they met until the moment Rema left? What first came to your mind when Susan entered her private fitness area and saw Him there? What did you think of Susan before this chapter and what do you think of her now? Is Susan's opinion of Him understandable or is she going overboard? Does Him seem truly concerned about his children or just angry that he didn't know about them? Do you think Fern will be affected negatively if she found out about the twin girls? What do you think of Xandra? What did you think after finding out why Xandra was at the hotel? What did you think of the twin's after their 'sickness' was revealed? What did you think of what happened between Blossom and Xandra when they met each other? How different are Susan and Blossom? Do you think the twin's life would be any different if they were raised by Blossom instead of Susan? Do you think or still think Susan's a good or great mother? What did you think of Rema after she spoke to Buttercup? What did you think of Buttercup's home? Do you feel sorry for Buttercup? Do you pity or worry about what might happen to Blossom when Buttercup finally meets her? What do you think of Boomer now? Has this changed your opinion of him since you last him changed or is it the same? What do you think of Miss Norris? How did you feel about how they spoke about Robyn? Do you think divorce is an option for Boomer and Robyn's marriage? Do you think that their kids are affected by their behaviour? Did Miss Norris's mentioning of Boomer's temper surprise you? Did he prove Miss Norris right about his temper? What do you think Boomer needs to do about his temper and anger? Do you think Boomer or Robyn are suitable parents? How did you feel about the babies and how each was handled? Did you enjoy the chapter? I hope so, review.
Surprise Vote 12: Who do you want to have first perspective in the next chapter? Susan, Buttercup (if you choose her you can't choose Butch), Rema, or Butch (This time you can choose two characters for first person perspective. But characters not chosen will appear in non first person perspective. Sorry, but I need them for the next chapter that will be very um, confrontational).
Surprise Vote 13: Who do you NEED to see in the next chapter? Sedusa, Fern, Janet, Ace or Lois (You can choose two characters. But those you don't choose won't appear in the chapter or might only get a VERY brief mention. Like Ace got earlier in this chapter).