Alina ******GOM: Storm of the Stars: Chapter Four of Eight: Thunderclouds of Truth (Extended) AUTHOR'S NOTES: at the end. (whew! This is halfway over). ************************************** Anyway, (Summaries and Gratuitous Moralizing) SAILOR MOON SAYS: (Summary of Lita's Past) "You know, even though Lita drank that wine, she shouldn't have. Even if she was on a date with the coolest guy! A girl can't be too careful, and besides, drinking when you're too young to handle it can be like, so majorly upsetting! Talk about trouble. Not every guy is as sweet as my Darien!She was totally lucky that Field wasn't a creep (er even negacreep at the time) but *INTERRUPTION* SAILOR MARS SAYS (Summary of Present) Shut up already Meatball head! All you had to say, was Lita had a date with Freddy! Any way, *I'll* handle the *interesting* part of the story. Lita ran into Freddy again--just as Molly sees him and realizes he's Neflite. Finally, I appear, as everyone gathers at the Ski lodge, for the trip I organized--but unfortunately so does our enemey--THE ASSITANT! And obviously, she realizes my power and decides to target *me*. Dumpling-brains here must not look like much of a threat. (Sailor Moon sticks her tongue out at Mars, who retaliates, and is too busy sticking her tongue out to finish the summaries.) SAILOR PLUTO (Summary of Past) Queen Selenity invited the Generals to the moon but not [she blushes] Endymion. He vowed to go regardless, following a suggestion by Neflite. Neflite worries about the twisted path of fate he sees before him. [She smiles slightly, and mysteriously, keeping her thoughts to herself. She dissappears.] Alina Says: Look for the "End of Chapter!" Or something went wrong! **************************** Lita's Past ***************@)>-------------- The mists of sleep finally cleared Lita's head. She blinked awake, and then shifted her gaze skyward upon noticing Freddy's face hovering heartbeats away from hers. "Oh wow stars!" She blurted out, trying to gain some composure, and relax the tension in her muscles. He was *so* near that she felt disoriented by his gaze. How long had she been sleeping? Had he watched her the whole time like this!? "Yes, those usually appear at night." He said with a smile, as calm as she was ruffled. "I love watching them." "They're so beautiful." She commented, as she stared at the diamond lace curtain of stars. She didn't know why she suddenly felt so shy. Hadn't she been dreaming of being close to him like this? He was holding her, and he was looking at her in a way that both dissolved and invigorated her. "Just like you." He thought, but didn't say. As if to soothe her racing pulse, Freddy began to tell her the names of the constellations, keeping his arm around her. The soft syllables of the star names surrounded her, easing the tension away. She began to relax against him. "And see that cluster over there? In America, they're called Pleiades, but here I've heard them named everything from Subaru to Shichifukujin. Bright lights and Seven Happy Gods." He smiled. "Why so many names?" Lita asked, following his gaze. "Bright lights and Happy gods?? Where do those names come from?" "People create myths and stories, inspired by the same lights. We get different names, because people see different things. There's another-- HokiBoshi--Brush Daub... That's my favorite name." "Why?" Lita asked, staring at the soft sprinkle of stars. They did sort of look like the stroke of a brush against the dark paper of the sky. "I like the name. That's what I see and its poetic. What a person sees in the stars says a lot about them. So what do you see?" He turned his mighnight-blue eyes on her. She squinted a bit, and laughed "I think it looks like someone's elbow!" He winced, but laughed. "I hadn't heard that one before." She considered. "I guess that's not the prettiest thing to call them." "I'm sure you're not the first." He brushed a strand of her hair away from her cheek, no longer looking at the stars. "That's what fascinates me about stars. Think about it Lita, you and I are gazing at the same stars that people viewed a life time ago! In a thousand years, that sky hasn't moved, and it won't for many thousands to come. Do you feel it?" "Feel what?" She whispered, as he drew a little closer to her face. "The shiver of the stars--that sense that we're connected to all things and people through those shared lights! I feal so close to humanity... like we're those little stars huddling in our destiny against the vastnes of space." His deep blue eyes locked into her green ones. Lita stared at him, thinking. "I have no idea what he means, but it sure sounds *cool*. He's so awesome.. I can't believe we're here, like this. I wish I could stay here forever with him. Is he going to kiss me? My first kiss! This is so romantic!!!" Knowing she should say something, she blinked, trying to gather her thoughts. She could feel the rush of her breath caress his face as she spoke. "You really know a lot about stars." The raspiness of her voice betrayed her emotions. She was finding it difficult to make rationale thoughts. "If only I knew as much about you" He said lightly, reading her signs, and leaning into kiss her--but a noise distracted him, he looked up through the gazebo slats, and he suddenly stiffened. "What's *he* doing here?" He pulled away from her, the movement leaving her cold. "What's wrong?" She asked, squinting in the dark to see what had ripped his gaze away from her. "Lita I can't really talk about it..." He ran his free hand through his short mop-like hair.He leaned forward and peered through the latticework of the gazebo. "Well, why not? It helps if something's bothering you." She said trying to look--all she saw was a slightly built man with a briefcase crossing into the building where her Father worked. He sighed. "That was my step-father, Eris Sineheart" "Oh? So does he work at Stanton Electronics? Maybe he just forgot something at the office. My Dad does that all the time ?" She suggested. "I don't think so. Look, none of the lights are going on in the building." "He could be using a room on the other side?"She suggested hopefully. "What's got you spooked?" "Let's just forget it, I don't want to waste the evening bothering about my family troubles. What would you like to do now? It's only about 9:15 now! I'm yours to command, my lady?" He managaed a smile, shaking off the dark worry in his eyes. "OH NO!" Lita flushed, worry clouding her eyes like thunderclouds. "It can't be! I'm going to be so majorly in trouble! I have to get home!" "Why? Does your dorm have a curfew or something?" He asked, perplexed. "That's archaic!" With a gesture of his hand, he dismissed the problem, and tried pulling her close again. He felt calmer as he inhaled her floral scent. "You know what I'd like to do?" He said suggestively but not seriously. "9: 15!!! OH My GOD!"Still in a panic state, Lita pulled out of his arms, and bent. She rapidly grabbed the basket and stood up. He let out a long sigh of frustration. "Calm down Lita! I'll drive you--you'll get home soon. You act like someone's going to ground you or something!" She stumbled, and he caught her. "I was staying with my uh, cousin's family this weekend. " She flushed with the lie. "The one I was with at the tournament?" He smiled taking the basket from her, casually his hand caressed hers. "I bet you were supposed to babysit him tonight weren't you? He looks old enough to take care of himself though--his parents are probably overprotective. They'll forgive you!" "I hope so!" She said "I had such a good time, but they'll be so worried! They'll never trust me again!" Freddy's mouth turned up a bit at the corner, but didn't quite smile. "If you didn't come home to me, I'd be worried too. But I don't think it would destroy my trust in you. Just explain that it was my fault ok? I was too selfish to give you up any earlier, so let them be mad at me." "Uh, I don't think that'll work. I'm so majorly in hot water!" She continued to tap her foot hard, as she scrunched up her face in concentration. "I need some excuse!" "Anyway, if you need to get back, you need to get back. We can do something else another time. I promise, with the stars as my witness!" "OH! I'd like that." She said sincerely, her features relaxing. She smiled her bright smile at him. He felt as if he were encased in a cool green forrest canopy, listening to the laughter of trees. "You'd like that? Then how about this?" Quickly,he leaned over and kissed her. Surprise highlighted the deep emerald green of her eyes as she blinked up at him. "Hope you liked that too " He added, hoping he didn't sound nervous. Was she angry or happy that he'd done that? He'd just crossed a line with her, pulling this budding relationship away from friendship into something more. When she didn't say anything, he added, "I know I enjoyed it, but I need to get you home." He was surprised when she grabbed him and kissed him solidly back. After a minute he said, "Well, I guess you did, Princess." She smiled, but looked at him puzzled. "Why'd you call me that??!" "Because I'm your humble subject" He teased her, making a mock bow. "I'm yours to command." She rolled her eyes, and playfully shoved him back. "Sorry I asked!"She said. "Ok, well, get me home then! And fast!" "As you wish." He replied. With the basket in one hand,and the other round her waist, he steered her along the quiet, dimly lit path. Lita tried not to stare in awe at the red sports car. Low slung, powerful and sleek the car stood out even in the dim light of the park's street light. "That's your car!" She said, unable to contain her excitement. "Isn't it a Supra 3000XGT? The kind the champion race car drivers use.?" "Yeah. I borrowed it from a friend." He mumbled. He eyed her warily. "Oh! You've got a nice friend then!" She smiled innocently "Ken dreams of this car!He won't believe it when I tell him I rode in one! Does it really take the curves of the road like--" "Who's Ken?" He asked trying not to sound jealous, one eyebrow lowering suspciously. "Oh! That's just my little cousin.." She smiled. Her conscience twinged with the lie, but then again what else could she do? "Good. Because otherwise I'd be jealous. But if your little cousin wants a ride sometime I'll do it--if you come too." Freddy offered. He had a feeling he would do anything for her. He opened the door and held it open. "Madame, your carriage awaits!" She giggled as she slid into the car. "This is *so* cool!" He gunned the engine a bit, and let the car roar to life down the streets. He changed gears, and for a second as he took a corner in heart-stopping split-second timing, he felt her grip his hand. He slowed, cursing himself for frightening her--until he realized her expression was one of exhileration. "You're good!" She said "Too bad I'm almost home!" "This is it!" she said as they pulled outside the building. "I had a good time." She stated again. "Here's my phone number here and at my .uh,..dorm room" She said handing him Ken's number and hers. "Call me soon, ok?" Just hope I answer the phone, she thought. Parents are such a nuisance! *Why* couldn't she live alone? But at least, everything had worked out like she thought with Freddy. Right now, she could be stuck in Paris with her Parents. She shivered supressing the ghastly thought. He laughed, leaned and kissed her again quickly and unsatisfyingly. "Cold? Well, get inside already. " He shook his head. "You are so refreshingly direct! I *will* call you, Lita. Soon." He grinned to himself, and watched until long after she'd dissappeared inside the building. A few seconds later the car careened down the streets of Tokyo once again. Freddy's thoughts flew even faster. He was in love. He had to be. She wasn't like any woman he'd ever met before. She didn't force him to strip his emotions raw with no hope of learning what she thought. She didn't toy with him while making up her mind. Lita was as direct as lightening, as sweet as maple sugar, and as beautiful as a star. His Lita. He thought, wondering if a man had a right to be possessive of such a goddess? His mind calmed as he pulled up at the large mansion where he had grown up, rather than the cheap dorm room he usually occupied. He parked the car in the garage. He only took the car today because he knew he'd have made Lita wait otherwise. Seeing her face and the fact that she was impressed by the *type* of car rather than how much it cost made him feel justified. He hadn't meant to test her, but she'd passed that anyway. So far she was passing all his tests. And he needed tests. Because most women, the minute they found out he was Maxfield "Field" N. Stanton Jr, grandson and heir to the owner of Stanton Electronics, well, most women changed into these calculating greedy thieves. Suddenly he was no longer a person, but a ticket to a free meal, movie or the historic mansion. His feelings didn't matter,nor did his dreams or his desires. He couldn't stand women like that, but everyone he met had been like that. They'd coyly disguised any attraction they felt to him, or exaggerated it into vulgarity. Then there was Lita. Innocently interested in *him* and not his money. She asked him what he thought, and what he felt. And she listened for the answers. He probably would have continued his mental rhapsodization on the virtues of Lita, had he not heard the sounds of his step-father entering the mansion. As always a sick cold feeling encased him at the sight of Sineheart. He hated the man who had married his mother a few years ago. ԗe were fine without him' thought Field/Freddy. "What are you doing here?"Sineheart asked coldly. "Field?" He said the nickname like an insult. "It's still my home." He replied, his voice edgy and tight. "What were you doing at the office tonight? You don't work there..." As always his tone was challenging and utterly disrespectful. In the six years they'd known each other, they'd never earned each other's trust. Sineheart looked at his step-son, but didn't meet his eyes. If he had, his contempt would be apparent."How do you know that I was there? " "I have my sources." came the reply. "Well, check them again. Don't interfere in what doesn't concern you." He said as he went up the steps. Field frowned. He'd never liked Sineheart. That was part of the reason he'd moved into the dorms as soon as he was old enough. He'd felt bad leaving his mother alone with that man--but she refused to listen to him. She said she was in love. He hated arguing with his sweet, quiet mother. She grew sad that her father-in-law or son refused to accept the new man in her life. In fact, part of the reason Field's grandfather wouldn't let him grow his hair out was because his step-father wore his that way. "I don't want you doing anything like that snake." His grandfather had ordered. Opening his backpack, Field began to separate the mail he'd picked up yesterday when he'd gotten the car. By accident he'd picked up a package meant for his step-father. He quietly resealed the thing, and stealthily placed it in his step-father's study. He never would have stooped to opening another's mail--but this happened by accident. Field had an interest in astrology, and sometimes ordered esoteric works through a mail order company. He'd seen the familiar brown and grey envelope in the packages, and merely assumed it was for him. Only when he'd opened it had he realized that the books were not on astrology, but on darker or more direct forms of magic. Field frowned as he placed the package on his step-father's desk. He didn't understand what this letter meant. He knew Sinheart had some strange hobbies, but nothing this strange....What was this "Summoning Spell" that the books referred to? What was his step-father doing with these darker forms of magic stuff about? He was too tired to think about it anymore. ********************* * * * * SILVER MILLENNIUM: Moon Kingdom ****************** @)------>-----> "This place is amazing!" Lita, Princess of Jupiter exclaimed as she stepped out of the crescent shaped design that marked their place of teleportation. Neflite was escorting the Princess of Jupiter to the palace, along with Zoycite. Mentally, Neflite reviewed his friend's positions. Jaedite and "Darien" (the name the prince had chosen for his disguise) were escorting the Martian Princess. Meanwhile Malachite and another lower guard escorted the one from Mercury. He wasn't sure which, but he knew two lower guards escorted the Venusian Princess. He had yet to see those women, but he had a feeling he was escorting the most beautiful one. Too bad, he thought, he didn't have time to be distracted by her. The Queen had created a rather formal receiving ceremony. This made the whole process run smoothly and without much chance for the guards to speak with their charges but surprisingly, the Queen invited the guard to stay on the Moon for two weeks. Neflite agreed with the comment spoken by his tall brunette--this place was amazing. He laughed, thinking of her exuberant comment--everyone else had been quiet out of respect and awe when they'd arrived. Still, he thought to himself, deliberately willing himself *not* to stare at her, he was on a mission here. Whether he liked it or not, the stars foretold of troubled times ahead. He needed to keep his eyes open so he could ascertain the cause. He couldn't be staring at her. During the formal induction ceremony, Neflite overheard Endymion whisper to Jaedite "Who's *she*?" nodding toward the slender figure of the moon's princess, as she stood before her court. "The Moon Princess of course" Jaedite said his eyes momentarily darting from the dark haired Martian Princess. Neflite observed and smiled. "I thought she was just a little girl."Endymion wondered. "But she seems so poised. " "She's almost eighteen. She'll start ruling soon." Zoycite interrupted informatively. "Anyone else catch your eye?" Entranced, the Prince continued to stare at the golden haired girl standing before the semi-circle of her court. He didn't answer Zoycite's question. "So it begins..." Neflite thought to himself. He caught the Queen's eye--and had the sense that she shared his thought, though she gave no outward sign of this. ************ Present Day: *******************@)->--->> "Hey..what took you guys so long?" Kerri asked as the three got to the car. She sat, toying with a small jewelled pin in the shape of a dragon. "Lita, you have to be firm with these guys!" "Nothing..."Ken said brusquely. Lita got in the back seat, next to Joe. Lita shook her head... "Sorry, I'm a little shaken--ran into this old boyfriend of mine..." Joe frowned. So that's who that was. A stab of jealousy and inadequacy ran through him. "Bad breakup?"Kerri asked. "You shouldn't let a guy disrupt you like that! This club I joined taught me that a guy who doesn't respect you isn't one you should respect." "I'll keep that in mind." Lita replied. "Let's put some music on...Kerri, where's that Three Lights tape? Let's hit the road..."Ken said trying to change the subject. He hated his girlfriend's new "women power" kick, and the subject of Lita's Ex was even worse. They pulled out onto the highway. A few hours later after playing random road games, the sky darkened and the terrain grew rougher and higher. "Forget how beautiful those things are..." Joe said staring at a constellation "Can't usually see the stars in the city but out here, they feel so close." Lita ignored the stars, but felt a sense of release just looking at the light from the sliver of moon... The dark forms of trees whipped by as the car sped on up the mountain to the lodge. She breathed in--she was leaving him behind. He couldn't hurt her anymore, and especially not here. The branches of the trees spanned out, as if blocking her from the memories. They parked near the large wooden frame lodge, and next to a blue sports style car that Darien owned. Warm lights and laughter greeted them, as Serena opened the door. "There you are!! Finally!" Serena complained happily (and loudly) as they entered. "I'm SO HUNGRY!!! Let's get that food in here--"She ordered "We can worry about everything else later!" Lita grinned. "It's nice to know you missed us. I'll start dinner!" It was good not to think about Freddy, she thought as she chopped vegetables and joked with the others. "But Muffin, "I haven't eaten since lunch!!!" I'm soooo hungry!" Serena wailed as Darien pulled the tray of cut veggies out of Serena's grasping fingers. "So are the rest of us Meat-ball head!" Raye chastised, grabbing the tray away. Of course, the ensuing tug-of-war between Raye, Darrien, and Serena resulted in the veggies hitting the floor. With a loud, long suffering sigh, Lita grabbed another handful of cucumbers and began to cut again. "Good thing I brought a lot of food!" She said. "Need some help?" Serena asked sheepishly. After dinner, Lita sat drinking hot chocolate with the other females. The men went to get the skis waxed or wood for the fire, or do other things besides listen to Kerri's sales speech for her Sisters of the Millenium club. The three friends simply laughed off her offer to join. "Sisterhood? It sounds nice and all, but I'm sort of busy." Raye said. "Yeah, you know how things get." Lita explained. "I'll think about it. My friend Molly's in it. Do you know her?" Serena soon had deftly changed the topic. After awhile, Kerri excused herself feeling a little lost in the interplay between the three good friends. "I'm going to go shower now..."she said. "But seriously, when we get back to town, feel free to come to a meeting with me for the Sisters of the Millenium Club." They all smiled identical fake smiles at that. After she left, Serena pounced. Pigtails flying, she jabbed a finger in Lita's general direction. "OK Lita, spill it! I just KNOW something happened today! You can't hide it from ME!" "I saw my old boyfriend today' She started to say. "You always do." Raye said dismissively. "Did you and Joe fight?" Serena pried. "Come on love scout, report to your commanding officer!" In exasperation, Lita threw a pillow at Serena, but hit Raye. "No. I don't mean I "saw him" I *ran into* Freddy,for the first time since he dumped me." Raye whumped Lita with the pillow. Lita continued, a little annoyed. "Ken was there, and he saw him too--if you don't believe me." She slammed the pillow at Serena. Either from the direct hit or the words, Serena's eyes widened "You mean you *saw* him?" She mumbled through the pillow. Raye's face softened, "What happened?" She lowered her weapon. "He was just there in the mall. Came right up to me. I was so shocked." Lita sipped her cocoa. "What did he want?" Raye asked, leaning forward on the table. "I don't know--I mean, why say anything to me now? He said he'd tried to find me--but he didn't apologize. He said..."She looked down, and into the fire. She felt cold inside thinking of him. "He said he wanted another chance." "What a creep! To not talk to you for all those years!" Serena slammed her hand down. "Don't do it Lita." Raye nodded. "You're not that desperate yet. Ignore him." Lita narrowed her eyes at Raye. "I intend to do that." Suddenly Serena's brain clicked on and she realized something-- "OH...I forgot--but, Molly ran into an old boyfriend of hers today too--I mean, she saw Neflite..." The other two's jaws dropped along with their cups. As Raye grabbed napkins to soak up the liquid, Lita leaned back against the couch, gathering strength. "What else did she say?" Lita demanded finally as Raye asked "Where when?" "Not much--well, Molly started to say something about thinking she'd seen Neflite at the mall, but then Mel got on the phone to tell me these horrible skiing statistics--did you know how many ways you could injure yourself with skis?" Raye groaned "Serena, I don't want to know.. What's this about Molly seeing Neflite!!!" Lita frowned. "How come you didn't mention that before!!!" "I'm telling you now... Գides, she's not *sure* it was him...and we were about to leave--I just didn't remember until now." Serena looked at Lita. Raye muttered "Only you could forget a thing like that meatball head!" vaguely under her breath. "I just thought of something-- what if Neflite and Freddy are the same person?" Serena asked then. Both Lita and Raye stared at Serena as if they thought she'd suggested that 2 +1 equals 38. "Are you serious? Come on!" Lita said. "That's the stupidest thing you've said all day..."Raye chimed in. "And you've said a lot!" "Oh really, Miss Smarty Pants, then explain how likely it is that *two* girls would see ex-boyfriends in the mall today? HUH?" Serena challenged. She grinned as Raye didn't respond right away. "That *is* weird" Raye agreed finally "But come on! Freddy can't be Neflite can he?" "Well, Lita *never* fought Neflite rremember? We hadn't discovered her yet." Serena warmed to her private theory. She liked thinking she'd figured things out for once. Lita frowned, biting her lip. "Serena, I'd notice something like that! I didn't fight him this lifetime--but I do remember what he looked like now that I have my memories back." "There has to be another explanation." Raye said. "Serena, you are unnecessarily complicating things. It's just coincidence--Lita saw Freddy, and Molly thinks she saw Neflite. That's all." "Or maybe--"Serena waved away Raye's suggestions "there's a new enemy--that tricks you into seeing old boyfriends--its a disguise, and when you are distracted they..."she paused trying to think what happens. "They suck your energy and you feel faint!" "That's ridiculous." Raye said. "But Molly said she almost fainted." "So did I--but out of surprise. "Lita said. "I think that's another stretch." "Yeah Serena, that was even worse than your first idea!" Raye commented. Serena tossed her hair and nose into the air. "Fine. I'm going to bed. Why don't *you* come up with something better!" She said as she yawned. "I need my beauty sleep." Raye smirked. "Sure, at least sleeping is something you can handle!" Serena calmly stuck her tongue out. "See, you can't even think of a good retort." Raye said, unable to stop herself from sticking her own tongue out. Finally Serena gave up and with a swirl of golden hair, left the room. Raye sighed, and turned to Lita who'd patnently ignored the little scene, her head turned to the window,her eyes on the stars. "Sorry." Raye said at last. "I know we shouldn't do that, but we can't help it. It's like a bad habit we can't stop." Lita looked over at her. "I know. I know. Did I say anything?" Raye shook her head. "We can think about Neflite when we get back. Molly's probably wrong. Anyway, Serena told me before that Molly was acting strangely since she joined that club. The same one Kerri kept talking about. As I said though, let's not worry now." She smiled, clearing the cups away. Lita nodded. "And I had to run into Freddy eventually. It just happened to be today. " Raye put her hand on Lita's shoulder. "Don't let it get you down. You got over him once Lita, and you can do it again." Quitely she left the room, and Lita alone with her thoughts. "Yeah." Lita sighed. But had she ever really gotten over him? Absentmindedly, she fingered the crystal rose earings she always wore. Outside, observing the lodge, The Assitant waited, impervious to the cold fall of snow. "END OF CHAPTER FOUR" ************************** HOMEPAGE NEWSFLASH: I have a homepage! It's still under construction, but give it a glance. The biggest draw is I have that picture I keep referring to, of our four lovers on there..... http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/Island/2924/index.html (it may not be html but htm, but I can never remember) THANKS & READING LIST Thanks to all who've written me so far! (Like Natalya) You really make my day! A *Must Read of Romantic stories* (alphabetic order) list for you: 1. Fushigi Kismet 2. Lianne 3. Laurel-Anne 4. Lady 5. Sue Mei 6. Ninx There are many more great author's out there, but those are the ones that I recall off the top of my head for good romantic reading. Also good but *much* less romantic and definitely a lot less innocent (let's just say Haruka and Michiru aren't the only ones being a little different sometimes) are 1. Chris Davies (New Adventures of Serena and Luna esp.) 2. Ken Wolfe (wow!) 3. Tim Nolan (awesome writing but with no scout pairings ) Remember, I want *your* comments today! alinasan@yahoo.com GOM: Storm of the Stars Chapter 5 "Lightening Crashes" Author's Notes: 1. Summaries: "last time on GOM" --PRESENT: Lita runs into Freddy, Molly sees Neflite. Coincidence? Serena thought not. The Assistant gets more info. -- PAST:Freddy gets fond of Lita, & turns out he's really the rich heir to an Electronics Corporation.... --SILVERMIL: The Guards go to the Moon... Neflite watches as Darrien watches the Moon Princess. Woo--Romance is in the air! "He'll say it's destiny we met, the simple truth is always the best don't you see what's done is done and there's somebody for everyone" ----"The Facts about Jimmy" ShawnColvin ****************** Silver Millennium ******************** Neflite dodged a deft blow by Malachite. Just because they were more or less vacationing in the legendary halls of the Moon Kingdom, argued Malachite, did not excuse them from weapons training. Paired up, and in two groups of six forming semicircles, the Warrior Lords of the Kingdom of Earth battled each other. Zoycite sat by, legs crossed, holding a pen and paper. His green eyes darted from each pair as he diagrammed the fight patterns of the others. The "Prince" was fighting Jaedite--the two were well matched for fighting skills. Neflite barely noted that they were being observed from up high--a realization that nearly cost him his weapon. Only a lucky stumble saved him from a forced surrender to Malachite. They both raised their swords and pushed against the others--a contest of strength, will and balance. Neflite had always lost before--but he vowed he would not this time. Malachite raised an eyebrow as Neflite continued to hold. "You've gotten better." He said, violet eyes ligtening to grey with surprise. Neflite twisted forcing Malachite to lower his guard--it was enough, and Neflite managed to make Malachite drop his sword. He barely tasted the victory before he felt the white/light green haired general's hands steal his own sword and tap his head with it. That signalled the end of the match. "Very impressive, Neflite. You are the first to ever get my sword out of my hands--but you must learn to keep your own." Malachite chastised him. Neflite chagrinned and stunned that he had lost bit down his impulse to charge at Malachite. He bowed instead. Malachite was right--the enemy would not be polite enough to refrain from such an underhanded trick. He needed to prepare for that. A sudden stifled shout from above grabbed Malachite's attention. "Warriors--" He called "We shall recess for now." Thankfully, Neflite sheathed his sword and began to walk to the fountains to get a drink. Even his disappointment over the match with Malachite was forgotten before the onslaught of his thirst--all he wanted to do was feel the cool water slide down his throat. A shadow blocked his path--he looked up only to avoid the object and continue his mission. Then suddenly it struck him that he was staring at the Princess of Jupiter. Having noted her position on the castle roof's low parapet wall, he marvelled that she'd managed to intercept him so soon. His eyes gaged her form-- her breath was racing softly in and out, as if she'd recently exerted herself. Although seeing her again was a welcome break after his fight, he assumed she was not there to see him--his duty to her was over--but it did seem as if she wanted to speak to him. He couldn't think why. He smiled charmingly at her, as his eyes surveyed the picture she made--still slowly recovering her breath, hand outstretched to stop him, lips parted about to speak. She hesitated though and said nothing. Complying with etiquette, he nodded. "Princess Jupiter." He said, bowing slightly and proceeded to pass to the water. Although his first glimpse of her had displaced his thirst for water, the dryness of his throat reminded him of why he was walking this way. Besides, though he might enjoy staring at her all day under other circumstances, he knew that would look extremely odd. He was very surprised when she grabbed his arm, and thus did not hear all of what she blurted out. He did catch the last part "I sort of need a date and that you would be perfect!" That was the last thing he'd expected her to say--but he was by no means opposed to it. He met her gaze head on. "I agree." He wanted to say something else--usually he could be smoother than rose petals on water if he wanted. Jaedite and the Prince were more glib with their compliments. Most women knew they weren't serious--but didn't care so long as they had their attention. Neflite was different. His magnetism was based on his ability to sincerely state what was beautiful about each woman he met...The other two appealed to a woman's vanity--he appealed to her soul. But Lita unnerved him somehow--threw his balance off. Usually he initiated interactions with women-- never the other way around. She started to say something else, but he cut her off with a polite "Princess." Out of the corner of his eye he'd seen the Prince approaching with the other guards. Though sometimes he'd boasted of his success with women, this time, he didn't care to share the moment with the rest. As Endymion/Darien came forward, Neflite started to bow--his mind still lingering on Lita's face. He saw Endymion raise his hand and warn ""The disguise, remember? You'll give it away... what's go *you* so distracted?" Neflite wondered if the others had witnessed that little scene. "I'm not distracted my--er, Warrior Darrien." He said, barely catching his mistake. Under his breath he grumbled "as if you've never been..." The Prince continued to tease him, and that alerted Jaedite to the game. Finally to avoid further embarrassment he explained he'd been invited to escort Jupiter to the ball. He could feel his face flushing, so he excused himself-- but not before he could hear the laughter and insinuations flying. He hated their teasing, but he sighed knowing he'd endure it again, because for Lita it was worth it. * * * * Lita's Past ***************** Back in his dorm room, Field barely changed out his clothes before he wearily slid into bed. He barely knew he was asleep before the dreams started again--the same voice calling him. The face of a woman swimming before him--large red eyes, red wavy hair cascading over her shoulders, as she smiled, reveaing very sharp fang like teeth. Then the scene shifted. He was looking at three men in uniform, around a table. A fourth--a blonde--ran in----and the air was solemn. Then the demonical woman with red hair was screaming at him--he was plunging a sword at someone--he didn't want to see who. Then inescapably the dream ended with that demon women's voice-- "General Neflite...I demand you serve me....by the power" He woke up in a sweat. Every night the woman seemed to say more words. The dream still didn't make sense. "Damn." He thought to himself--why couldn't he have dreamed of Lita's sweet face? He wished she were here with him...he grinned, knowing the dorm had a no women policy. "That would give me more problems...but it would be worth it for Lita." He fingered her phone number....probably too late to call her. He got up, walked down the hall to the bathroom, splashed some water on his face and took a deep breath. Still blinking water out of his eyes he looked up at the mirror--and nearly jumped out of his skin. For a second he thought he'd seen the reflection of the demon woman from his dream...but all that was behind him was the pale yellow brick of the wall. He knew these were no ordinary dreams...what could it mean? Somehow he got to sleep until dawn. When he awoke, he went for a run past the tennis club to which he belonged. He ended up outside the park where he'd come with Lita... "Fieldy..." A twangy voice called. Field cringed. Only one person called him that-- "Grandad." He said turning around, surprised slightly to see his grandfather dressed in walking slacks. "Just getting some exercise...got to keep the old body in shape!" His grandfather yelled, as he caught up to Field. "So, Fieldy...you haven't dropped by the office to see me...last time I saw you was that tournament!" "That was great...thanks for inviting me." "Inviting? No, I demanded...you had to be there! Honor of the Stanton name!" laughed his grandfather... "But what's been keeping you so busy? New girlfriend?" It always amazed Field how his grandfather knew those things...and didn't' know others, he thought thinking of his stepfather. "Yeah..." "So when do I get to meet her?" His grandfather prodded. "Where did you meet her?" "Don't push....I just met her." laughed Field "I need to prepare her for you." "Ashamed of your grandpa...hm?" "No." Field said..but how did he explain he didn't want to reveal who they were? "Then what's she like, Field?" The old man said. "Freddy?" Lita's voice called out. She was dressed in running shorts and top , and looked as if she'd been at it for awhile. In the early sunlight of the day, she looked very young to him--as she approached rather like a colt taking its first real run on its legs. Her breath slipped in and out with her voice "I thought that was you!" Mentally he cringed--he wanted to see her, but not like *this*..not now, not with his grandfather. "Did she call you Freddy?" Mr. Stanton asked. "Uh..yeah, she couldn't quite say the L in Fieldy...she grew up here you know." The Texan looked the girl over, in that brash American fashion. "She looks familiar..." He paused trying to think. "Hi Freddy.."Lita said "Morning!" The three stood there awkwardly for a second, as Field did not do anything. "You may forgive this rude grandson of mine for not introducing me--but I won't forgive him for not letting me have the pleasure of your acquaintance sooner." The older man gently took Lita's hand and kissed the palm. She tried not to giggle, as she caught Freddy's eye. "*Why* can't you be more like your grandfather?" She said. Mr. Stanton laughed. "I like a girl who can throw a good compliment--what's your name?" "I'm Lita Kino..." She said. "Pleased to meet you!" She grabbed his hand and shook it, and he tried not to wince in pain. "Woah, that's quite a grip you got there girl! Sure you're not from Texas? Hm.. Kino...hm, that sounds familiar, Well, Miss Lita..it was a pleasure to meet you--make that grandson of mine bring you to see me, you hear?" The man smiled. "I like pretty women. But...I'd better get going before Fieldy gets too jealous!..." Freddy snorted. He waved as he turned towards the city buildings. "OH! Freddy, he's so *cute*." Lita exclaimed. "He looks familiar..." "Don't tell me I'm going to lose you to my grandfather!?" Freddy joked, catching Lita around the waist. She put her hands to steady herself on his chest, knocked off balance by the sudden embrace. "That depends on if you have me or not.. Besides, I like older men." She said, eyes gleaming with some private joke. "Oh really?" He smiled. "Well, right now in that outfit, you look about 13, so 21 should be old enough for you!" For some reason she pulled back a little and turned away...Changing the subject, she asked "Say, why did he call you Fieldy?" "What?" Freddy asked, unnerved by the lightening quick change in her mood. "Before, your grandfather called you Fieldy." "Oh...it's an old nickname, that's all." He reached for her again, but she dodged away. "So where does he work? That's pretty great he still does, even though he's so old.." "So old? He's only 66....he won't retire for another 8 years or sooner if I can take...that is, let's not talk about him..." "Why not? I'm curious about your family...you don't talk about them much." "Neither do you!" He countered. "I have more than you..."She shifted uncomfortably, a step away again. "Ok, so when do I meet your parents.." He pushed. Now she grew *very* pale. "My Parents! I'm not even supposed to date--" She said, then slapped her hand over her face. He'd expected her to kid him about being too serious--not this! "That's very traditional. Come on...it's not like you actually *are* 13! You're old enough to make your own decisions..." "They're very protective." She said looking down. "Lita, is something wrong?" He asked. "I feel like you're not telling me something." She looked up at him. "No...I..I guess I'm not sure what's happening between us." "I'm not either--but I don't want it to stop." he said. "Look, I wasn't really serious about meeting them--yet.. I get the sense you don't date much--I'd have thought...never mind, but now that I know...I won't rush you into anything, ok, Lita? Let's just get to know each other." She nodded. "So...if I"m not overwhelming you-- how would you like to have breakfast?" "Already ate--but how about giving Ken and me that ride later on that you promised?"She said. "I'll pick you up here around 11 is that ok?" He smiled "But then I get to take you to lunch." "Deal!" She said already running off, excitedly. A few hours later, after he'd run back to the house to get his car, Field was pulling out of the driveway. Suddenly a small black cat ran out in front of him and he tried to stop-- but found the breaks weren't working. Displaying more intelligence than most cats, the animal dodged, so he didn't hit it. He ended up in the trees across from the drive way, not even making it to the road. Unhurt but confused he got up and went to investigate. Everything appeared intact, but there was a small strange symbol in red, rather like a cursive f with a line through it. He frowned...the car was fine last night. He removed the leather patch. If he hadn't run into that cat, he'd have careened out of here at his normal speed and would have been killed going around the first bend, straight off the hill that gave the mansion it's privacy. Disgusted he threw the patch down, and got back in the car. The break light didn't come on. The car turned on smoothly. He pulled out, tested the brakes--they worked. He paused, wondering whether to risk using the car or not? He knew enough about cars to tell nothing was wrong physically...He just didn't understand it. It was like it had been cursed or something. He didn't want to disappoint Lita... But..on impulse he opened the hood again --and seeing nothing unusual, he sped out safely. @)--------> PRESENT DAY--Mountains at the SKI LODGE *********************************** Raye tapped her foot while she waited for Jed to rent his skis in the Main Resort Lodge room. She hoped he wouldn't be too slow at picking up skiing, as he couldn't remember if he ever had before. She agreed to teach him--but she wanted to go down some of the hardest slopes eventually. She wandered around the store when she saw a table with a sign on it-- "Register to win A New High Tech Mask...polarized light--improve depth perception, wind protection." "Miss, would you like to sign up to win?" A woman called. She was dressed in fashionable ski attire, the mask on her own head,holding her red bobbed hair back on one side, the rest covering one side of her face. "OOH...a contest!" Serena said... "That sure is a nifty mask...I'd bet I'd ski better with that." "Well you could hardly get worse" Raye said under her breath. "Come on Raye, let's go sign up!!!" Serena exclaimed dragging Raye over to the table. "Hey guys"Lita called. "What are you up to?" "Entering this contest..." Serena said. Lita smiled. "Sure, I'll enter it too." They sat filling out the forms-- "Wonder why they need to know all this stuff for? Blood type? " Serena complained as they filled it in "Bad as a test..." Lita nodded in agreement. "Done!" Serena chirped... As she handed the form in. Raye whispered to Lita "Bet they can't read that handwriting..." Serena stuck her tongue out at Raye. "I *heard* that....I don't think neat handwriting would make me win." Lita shook her head. "It's just a form.. Come on guy's lets go ski!" The Lady called out suddenly -- "Miss...Hino.. Raye Hino?" Raye paused at the door. "Yes?" "You won." "Already?" She asked puzzled. "We do it by filing the form and generating a number--you were 100. There will be another drawing next week, ladies." She said to the other two girls. "I *knew* it." Serena stomped her foot. "You did it again, Raye...you cheated!" "I did not Serena...I'm just lucky I guess." Raye said serenely trying the mask on. "Wow..this mask really cuts the glare." She said stepping outside. The sun didn't last long though--by mid morning a strange mist rolled in and covered the hills. Many people quit skiing altogether, but Raye wanted to hit the expert slopes. She pushed Lita into going with her (Serena refused to do anything harder than the easiest trails-- "Unless there is some contest, I'm not risking *my* life like that! Not even to Ski with Darien...") Kerri had sprained an ankle, so Ken and she had driven out to the nearby town for assistance, leaving a note for the others not to worry. Joe and Darien had long ago taken to the expert trails. Jed said he'd keep Serena company on the easy trails--he didn't feel up to much more. He didn't want to tell her, but Raye was not a good ski instructor even if she was a good skier. Unfortunately, he thought, a few bruises later, Serena wasn't much better at lessons or explanations. And getting out of her way so much made him think the expert slopes would be *safer*. * * * Lita stared into the mist--Raye had been in front of her just a second ago. She was really flying down the mountain, twisting and turning. Lita preferred to go a little slower--but not by much. She just hadn't skied as much as Raye had-- she didn't like being second. Suddenly she hit a clump of snow and went flying. She landed unhurt, a little surprised and annoyed at herself. She scrambled up the mountain to find her poles. The mist had thickened a little so she couldn't even see how much longer the trail was--or anyone else. She sighed...now she'd never catch up to Raye. She kept going down til she got to the lift--no sign of Raye. She must have gotten tired of waiting--or taken a different path. Lita knew she may have missed a turn off somehow. She got in the line...on the other side of the lift line, a lone male skier came in and prepared to board. Purposefully stalling and letting the chair go, Lita waited and got in with the man who had a helmet on, blocking his face. She turned her head once they were in the air, smiled, preparing to flirt a little "Do you really need that helmet?" She asked. From his frame she figured he had a good build, but she wanted to see his face to see if the rest was as cute. He was staring out into the mist and snow, so she could only see her face reflected in the mask. "The way I ski? Definitely...though on a day like this the visor is a little dark." He said. She felt herself melting at the sound of his low powerful voice. He turned, sliding up the mask cover. He almost dropped his ski poles and helmet. "LITA?" He whispered, as surprise filed his dark blue eyes. Her first thought was, that yes, his face was definitley *handsome*, but her second thought, which she voiced, was " YOU CREEP, LEAVE ME ALONE FREDDY! "End of Chapter FIVE"