Let There Be Light Chapter 7: The Way He Moves, an alvin and the chipmunks fanfic

Alright, so as promised, here's the 2nd half of the previous chapter - which I had to cut due to certain plotlines! :P

There will be awkwardness; but that's all I can tell you for now. Enjoy! :D

Chapter 7: The Way He Moves

All her life, Maia had lived by swearing her allegiance to the Light.

And in return, there was never a dull moment where things didn't look so bright, because she knew that she could always rely on the colours and sight to guide her conscience. Even as a young one, her earliest memories drifted back to the nights where she slept under the starry skies, reaching out playfully for the diamond-shaped wonders.

But right now, Maia felt lost and completely disorientated in the pitch-black narrow closet. Her footing lost its grip and she stumbled forward. She probably would've felt more than just time slowing to a standstill, if something hadn't come to her support and helped her stand back on her two feet.

Then she heard the voice of her saviour, warm and gentle like a hopeful ray of sun.

"Easy. I've got you, dear. Mind your step now."

Maia didn't reply, but still held on tightly to the figure in the shadows, her breathing growing erratic. As a pair of limbs slithered about her trembling body, she fought back the urge to scream, already expecting the worse to happen. Instead, Maia could sense those limbs wrapping themselves around something else, followed by a faint plonk, and the room suddenly came into sight as a single light bulb flickered to life on a thin string cord.

"There we are! I knew I'd find the switch somewhere!" Phelan smiled, folding his paws in triumph.

Now that she had a better view of her surroundings, Maia let go of his yellow jumpsuit and peered around. The closet, or storeroom, was no wider than two dining tables put together, and even the bulb dangling in mid-air seemed like a firefly out of place. If the situation wasn't suffocating enough, there were several shelves on the walls housing old photo albums, worn-out costumes, discarded props and even some of the Chipettes' baby things.

"You know, it's okay to admit that you're scared of the dark. Believe it or not, I used to be afraid too," Phelan said.

"I'm not afraid!" Maia leapt to her own defence, trying to sound brave. "I just don't like being in dark places, that's all."

She watched as Phelan headed for the door and tried turning the handle. After a few unsuccessful clicks, he sighed and pressed his ear to the surface, concentrating deeply on something. To Maia's surprise, Phelan grabbed a handful of cushions and began propping them against their only way out.

"What are you doing?" asked Maia suspiciously.

"Making sure that we're not being heard. Come here and listen."

Following Phelan's motions, the creamy-white chipette placed her ear against the door. The partitioning might have been made of thick wood, but nothing prevented her keen senses from picking up the slightest sounds of heated whispers and shoving.

"Alvin, move aside! I can't hear a thing!"

"You get your diva-sized head out of the way!"

"No fair! It's my closet, so that means I get the right to listen more than you do!"

Phelan cupped his paws to his mouth, his giggling soft but hearty. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say that Alvin and Brittany wanted to get us together as a couple!"

"I thought you said you were claustrophobic?"

"Even Alvin knows when I'm fibbing. Guess I'll give him credit for that."

He looked homely as ever as he fluffed up the cushions while sweeping a section of the floor with his bushy tail. "Come on, make yourself at home. Looks like we'll be stuck here for the next six minutes."

Maia stood frozen to the spot, uncertain if the smile on Phelan's face was one of complete sincerity or utter playfulness.

"Don't worry; I'm not going to eat you. You'd give me a tummy ache." Even as he giggled at his own joke, there was a tone of reassurance in the wolf-like chipmunk's voice.

With no other options available, Maia decided to take her chances as she sat next to Phelan.

"So, you dropped in on the Chipettes yesterday, huh? In that case, welcome to the family!"

The attempt to break the ice didn't seem to have its desired effect on Maia, who just looked at Phelan's extended paw. His actions were earnest – no doubt about that. But deep down, her instincts seemed to be screaming out to her that Phelan was every bit as charming as a snake, waiting for the right moment to strike.

And that's when he caught her off guard.

"I didn't want to mention this in front of the others. But I think I know who you are, Maia."

Maia's heart skipped a beat.

"You're from the Order of Light, aren't you?"

The silence that befell the room was like a sword being drawn slowly from its scabbard. She had been careful not to reveal too much of herself to a stranger she barely knew. How could he possibly have gained so much in one night?

Now would have been a wise move to start packing for a one-way ticket to Iceland.

"How did you find out?" asked Maia sharply.

"I don't know, really. It's just a hunch that's been popping inside my head, and there's something about you that seems so... so unusual."

"What, that I look like some kind of freak?"

"No! Don't say that. You're no freak, Maia. What would I gain from hurting you in any way?"

The wolf-like chipmunk reached out to pat her shoulder gently. Maia thought of pulling herself away, but it was too late. As soon as his paw came into contact with Maia's fur, the visions came again, stronger than ever...

Phelan pressed his face closer to Brittany's, locking their lips together for the first time; while the flames of jealousy burned within Alvin as he could only watch...

The Sevilles and Millers were accompanied by Phelan across a bridge of glass panes, listening to his advice before he stood off against some boar-like creature...

"You have to be careful of what you think in the dream world. Here, your thoughts become reality..."

From the shadows, Phelan held back his tears as he saw how happy Alvin was, dancing with Brittany in the moonlight and embracing each other's love...

He stepped out of the porch, with one last look at his newfound family, and disappeared into the night with a determined smile and a promise...

The sound of her name jolted Maia back into the present, and once more she found herself staring into Phelan's concerned eyes.

"Are you okay? If you don't mind my saying so, you're looking a bit lost."

"Why are you being so nice to me?" Maia voiced her thoughts out loud. "We've never even met before. So what's in it for you?"

"I know what it's like to be the outsider, the new stranger on the block. I've been down that road before, and frankly, I don't ever want it to happen again to anyone. Nobody deserves to be treated like they're the odd one out. Instead, why not give them a chance?"

"Well, you've got your chance now. You could always tell the girls who I really am," Maia pointed out.

"And get you thrown out of the Order? I've heard of their conducts, and it wouldn't be right of me to put you in that position.

"But if you're a part of the Chipettes now, then you're a part of my family too. And I keep my family safe from harm, no matter the cost."

He's not aware about my mission, and yet he still insists on keeping me safe?

Maia may not have realized it, but she was breathing a lot easier despite the air thinning in those constricted surroundings. The closer she got to know the wolf-like chipmunk, the less of a threat he seemed to appear. "So, does that mean my secret's safe with you?"

Smiling, Phelan held up his little finger. "How about we pinky swear on that?"

They both crossed their pinkies, and for the first time in that dreary closet, Maia's face lit up with a warm smile.

"You're a nice guy, Phelan. But I guess I'll still be keeping my eyes on you, and off your perfectly formed abs."

"You think I've got abs?" Phelan blushed, looking down at his jumpsuit.

"It never hurts to have a vivid imagination," Maia said.

She could almost see her own reflection in Phelan's wolf-like nose, and right now, every little strand of fur on his face tickled her with the musky scent of his breath.

Was this what Serenity meant by looking into the deepest darkness to find the light within its heart?

She leaned forward, closing her eyes in anticipation. Perhaps the moment had come at last, and she was about to savour it...

... when they heard the doorknob click before it turned, giving Phelan and Maia a second to pull back and straighten themselves before Alvin and Brittany had dragged them out. The others didn't seem to move from their spots, but they were now watching their older siblings with great interest.

"Sooooo?" chorused the unsuccessful eavesdroppers.

"So?" replied a confused Phelan.

"How did it go?" asked Alvin.

Phelan shrugged his shoulders.

"We talked about ourselves, got to know each other a little better, and I think we're becoming good friends. Don't you think so, Maia?"

"Uh-huh."

"Come on, you can do better than that!" said Alvin. "You're supposed to tell us everything that went on in there!"

Phelan made a playful gesture of scratching his chin. "Really? 'Cause I thought someone said that what happens in the closet stays in the closet."

"Well, forget the rules! We're bros, aren't we, Phelan? Just one tiny spill? Please?"

"Sorry, no can do. A promise is a promise, bro."

Alvin realized he'd just been played at his own game. He buried his face in his cap and groaned. "Jeez! You two just set the world record for the most boring seven minutes in heaven ever!"

Phelan took this opportunity to give his newfound friend a secret wink.

Maia tried to steer the subject aside. "So, you're all singers?"

"Bona fide artists, baby! Even this one here!" Alvin beamed, pointing at Phelan.

"Last year, he made his debut performance at our school's Halloween party!" Theodore spoke up. "Everybody loved it, didn't we?"

The six of them nodded as the wolf-like chipmunk's cheeks flushed a deep red.

"Aw, shucks," Phelan muttered, looking down at his shuffling feet. "But I couldn't have done it without the help of my brothers."

"And yet he's still so modest!" Alvin grinned, wrapping an arm around Phelan's shoulders. "Come on! Live a little! Sing something for us right now!"

All eyes were now fixed on Phelan, whose bushy tail was wagging from side to side.

"Yeah, Phelan, come on! Sing for us! Besides, Maia hasn't heard your voice yet!" Eleanor said.

"I... I really can't do that. I'm just a guest."

Maia fluttered her dainty lashes. "Aw, just one song for me, pretty please?"

"Well..."

But even Alvin had had enough of his brother's code of modesty.

"Phelan! Phelan! Phelan! Phelan!" The cheering soon rose into a tribal-like chant, followed by a series of clapping by all seven chipmunks, including Maia herself.

"Alright, alright," Phelan sighed in mock defeat. "Brittany, play me a tune on that, will you?"

Brittany walked over to her CD player and pressed a button. A catchy whistle streamed from the machine, accompanied by a synthesized rhythmic beat. Phelan closed his eyes and snapped his fingers, letting the music fill his soul. Once he was sure he found the right note, Phelan sang from the heart, unaware that his voice sounded more confident than ever before.

Just shoot for the stars
If it feels right
Then aim for my heart
If you feel like
And take me away and make it OK
I swear I'll behave

You wanted control
So we waited
I put on a show
Now I make it
You say I'm a kid
My ego is big
I don't give a sh-

And it goes like this
Take me by the tongue
And I'll know you
Kiss me 'til you're drunk
And I'll show you
All the moves like Jagger
I've got the moves like Jagger
I've got the mo-o-o-o-oves like Jagger

I don't need to try to control you
Look into my eyes and I'll own you
With them moves like Jagger
I've got the moves like Jagger
I've got the mo-o-o-o-oves like Jagger

It was here that Phelan decided to make up his own dance routine.

Maybe it's hard
When you feel like you're broken and scarred
Nothing feels right
But when you're with me
I'll make you believe
That I've got the key

So get in the car
We can ride it
Wherever you want
Get inside it
And you want to steer
But I'm shifting gears
I'll take it from here

I don't need to try to control you
Look into my eyes and I'll own you
With them moves like Jagger
I've got the moves like Jagger
I've got the mo-o-o-o-oves like Jagger

Suddenly, Maia's voice rang out clear and strong.

You wanna know how to make me smile
Take control, own me just for the night
And if I share my secret
You're gonna have to keep it
Nobody else can see this

So watch and learn
I won't show you twice
Head to toe, oooh baby, rub me right
But if I share my secret
You're gonna have to keep it
Nobody else can see this (hey, yeah, yeah, yeah)

Alvin and his dancing joined in the last verse with Phelan, which sent everyone into laughs.

I don't need to try to control you
Look into my eyes and I'll own you
With them moves like Jagger
I've got the moves like Jagger
I've got the mo-o-o-o-oves like Jagger

As the music came to a halt, the two chipmunks finished off with a couple of killer poses. Simon, Theodore and the chipettes whooped with applause. Then remembering the sudden voice they all heard, everyone, including Phelan, crowded around Maia as though she was the star.

"That was so awesome! We could use someone like you in our group!" Brittany said. "Where did you learn to sing like that?"

"I don't know. But it's always something I wanted to do since I was little," said Maia truthfully.

"Guess that confirms another theory," Alvin smirked. "Every chipmunk who talks – can definitely sing and dance!"

At first, Simon didn't seem to be amused. "Oh Alvin, will you please stop with all those 'theories' of yours?"

There had never been a house filled with eight chipmunks whose laughter rang out as one– until now.

A quick knock on Brittany's door revealed Miss Miller carrying Phelan's trench coat, which signalled the boys as to how quickly the hour flew by.

"Thank you very much for mending my coat, Miss Miller," said Phelan, running a paw over the perfectly blended seams.

"Of course, dearie. Come back and visit any time you like."

Maia watched as the Chipettes led the boys to the porch. Each chipmunk then hugged his counterpart and wished her goodnight. The creamy-white chipette's gaze met with Phelan's for a briefly awkward moment, before she approached him with a handshake.

"It was very nice to meet you, Maia," Phelan extended a courteous bow.

"Likewise, the pleasure's all mine," said Maia, remembering her manners.

Phelan was the last to leave, as he couldn't seem to take his eyes off her. Finally, when she couldn't bear it any longer, she rushed up to him just as he was about to turn the corner.

"W-wait!" Maia fought to catch her breath. "I... I forgot to say t-thanks. Thank you, Phelan."

"What for?"

"For tonight. For not ratting me out."

She expected that Phelan would insist on claiming a reward as payment, but the only thing he returned was another of his warm smiles while placing a paw over his chest.

"I never go back on promises made to friends. You have my oath as a warrior."

Maia felt lighter than she had been in years. "Phelan, I'm forever in your debt. You don't know how much this means to me."

"Please, you don't have to say that. Just trust in me, okay?"

Maia nodded, and said goodnight. She'd taken a few steps when Phelan called out.

"Maia?"

"Yes?"

"Mo chuisle."

Her response was to tilt her head in a puzzling manner. Since when did they start talking in codes?

"Mo chuisle, Maia."

"Isn't that a phrase in your native tongue?"

Phelan winked an eye.

"I'm afraid I never studied enough Irish. Care to tell me what it means?"

The mysterious wolf-like chipmunk smiled, his tiny fangs glinting in the night sky. "That's for me to know and you to find out."

Maia thought of something to say, but decided not to push him any further. He had his secrets. She had hers. Perhaps they'd shared enough for one night.

"Well, in that case, 'Mo chuisle' to you too, Phelan. And thanks again."

They returned each other's smiles, and the last thing Maia saw of the dark warrior was his figure blending into the shadows of the fence before he was gone.

She looked at her paw with a dreamy expression. Or to be precise, at the spot where Phelan had kissed her. She brushed against it lightly, imagining her two fingers to be the wolf-like chipmunk's lips instead.

Maybe this mission won't turn out to be so bad after all.

It was then that a thought struck her like an attack, completely unprovoked.

Darn it! I've been so busy keeping my mind on Phelan! I forgot to ask him about Soron!

To Be Continued...

Today's song fic, Moves Like Jagger, was brought to you courtesy of Adam Levine and Maroon 5. Oh, and Christina Aguilera too. :P

So there you have it: Phelan and Maia's first meeting. How do you think it's going to end up as the story progresses?

An important note regarding the next few chapters: you won't be seeing much of the 'munks and 'ettes, but it's going to feature a lot of OCs, especially a few who are going to make certain comebacks! (Go ahead and make your guess) ;)

Until then, don't forget to review, and have a Blessed and Happy Dragon Year! :D

~ Wind