GWB01E

**START**

**46 Prologue to the Reunion.**

Roy and Beruche were in the apartment he had in the suburbs. The boy, helped by her, had taken the exams he had left to finish his degree and passed them, finally graduating as he wanted. They celebrated at length with quite a few of his now former classmates and friends from Golden in attendance. Even Miss Parker attended his graduation. This time with the boy present.

-Congratulations, Mr. Malden. - The headmistress smiled slightly. - You've finally made it. Just as it should be done. Your parents would be very proud of you. - She told him with a tinge of affection that was unusual for her. -

-Thank you very much, miss. - He replied with an excited tone. -

-At last, we have one more teacher in the breach. - Tom greeted, approaching his friend with a smile. -

-Yes, I'm happy for you, Malden. - Roberts added who, along with Melanie, was also there. - Are you going to look for a job at a school?

-Not now. - The boy said, unveiling. - I'm training to join a professional basketball team.

-I'm sure you'll make it. - Cooan encouraged him, grabbing Tom's arm. -

-With how well you play, that should be easy. - Miss Parker predicted. -

-Don't think so. - The boy smiled, adding modestly. - There are a lot of very good players. I must work very hard and be focused if I want results.

         That elicited another smile from his now former head of studies, who said with mock surprise and even some joviality.

- If I hadn't heard it, I wouldn't believe it, Mr. Malden talking about working hard and staying focused! - And having said that, to the laughter of the others, she turned affably to Bertie and added. - I must congratulate you, Miss Malinde. You have accomplished in a single year what I could not do in several. You have put this rascal on the right track.

- Thank you very much, though it has cost me my labor. Hee, hee, hee! – Bertie laughed. -

- Hey, it's no big deal! - Roy wanted to defend himself, reviving the general hilarity. -

             And while his friends Jake and Ozzie, also present. Along with Tom, and Malcolm, continued to banter with the new graduate, Miss Parker made a little aside with Bertie, Melanie and Cooan.

-I'm glad to see all three of you so happy. And I want to wish you the best of luck for the future.

-Thank you very much, miss. - Cooan smiled. -

- What are your plans? If I may ask. - The head teacher asked. -

-My sister and I are working at a nursery school in the suburbs, one in which Mr. Harding is a partner. - Bertie reminded her. - We're fine, although I, for one, would like to teach older children in the short-term future.

-Well, I agree with that, although in my case I prefer the little guys. And I've had a few offers to transfer states. - Cooan added. -

-It would be a shame to move away, Connie. - Melanie commented. - Why don't you join us? Well, if Bertie wants me to. I'm thinking of doing a master's degree and a bridging course so I can teach at the university someday. If possible, at this one.

-It's a very attractive proposition, but really, I like little kids better. - Cooan replied. -

-I don't think it's a bad idea. - Bertie said in turn. - Although I don't have much time for classes now.

-I understand, you must work. - Melanie spoke. -

-That's right, the scholarship ended when we graduated. - Cooan commented. -

-That's right, and for now I'm happy at school, working alongside Tom and my little sister. - Bertie smiled, draping an arm around her shoulders. -

-By the way. - Cooan asked now, as if she suddenly remembered. - Have you heard from April? She's one of the few members of the cheerleading squad I haven't seen.

              Melanie sighed, shaking her head, her expression reflecting sadness now. She said nothing, though it was Ms. Parker who stated.

-She resigned and her discharge from this university. Miss Sanders asked me to give her a few days to reconsider. I did, but in the end, she didn't show up. Much to my regret I had to honor that request. I hope Ms. Sinclair has good luck in the future. And should she wish to return to Golden, our doors will be open to her.

               What Jane Parker did not discuss with these two girls was the meeting she had a few days ago with her former classmate's parents. They told her that their daughter was not in good health and that, if possible, when she recovered, they would give her the opportunity to return. Of course, fearing that the matter was serious in view of the faces of these people, Jane assured them that it would be so. Out of modesty and elementary courtesy she declined to ask details but wished those distressed parents well.

-In any case, I haven't heard from her in quite some time. - Melanie said. -

    The others no longer insisted, leaving that annoying subject. They soon said goodbye. Shortly thereafter, because of his good performance in the commercial league, Roy was invited to try out for the most important basketball team in the city. He thought he did well, but the decision was up to the evaluators, who, if they thought the same, would call him back and send him to try out for the scouts and coaching staff. This made him quite nervous. Bertie, understanding this very well, tried to calm him down and encourage him as jovially as possible once they were in the boy's apartment.

- Come on, man, you're a very good player, don't worry, it'll only be a test of formality. And you'll pass the other one too.

-Yes, of course. It's easy," - he snorted, theatrically raising his arms, and then dropping them all at once and adding ironically. - That's if they call me. And then I'll just have to go over there and speak. - "Hello, my name is Robert Malden, but you can call me Roy. I'm just an ordinary guy, at least before I got possessed by a demon and turned out to be an alien space warrior reincarnated from a prince from another life. So far, I haven't played any big games except intercollegiate championships, but I've taken out a bunch of demons who wanted to destroy Earth and I've trained in Heaven to do it. Because, you see, they killed me, but I was resurrected, does it sound well?

-Roy, that has nothing to do with it. -Bertie interrupted him affectionately, gently stroking his chin. - I don't think you need to talk about your life to the Knicks scouts. Besides, that hasn't bothered you so far on your other team.

-You're right. - He admitted, confessing with emphasis and trepidation. - But this is the opportunity I've been waiting for all my life, ever since I was a little kid, and I'm afraid that, in the excitement of the occasion, when I get serious about playing my way through the tryout, I'll get the idea of levitating in the air or something. With the simple unconscious desire to impress them. What face do you think they'd make if they saw me do that?

- I don't know! -  Beruche laughed, trying to play it down. - But I'm sure they'd sign you up for sure. Even if it was just for a mascot. Or as one of those break-time attractions! -

-Very funny. - Roy responded, pouncing on her and starting to tickle her in a better mood. - Now you'll see how funny I am.

-Also. - She added, continuing the joke as she pulled away. - "The rules don't say anything about whether players can fly or not, do they?

The boy grabbed her from behind trying to give her the most terrible tickle ever, but Beruche was not prone to it. Anyway, they both laughed and rolled around on the sofa, until, back on their feet, they regained a modicum of composure and with it the topic of conversation.

-Seriously, Bertie," - he said in a thoughtful and very sincere tone. - I just want to have a normal life with you. I've had enough fights and wars against monsters and demons. I don't want to draw attention to myself. And if I do, let it be on my own merits as a basketball player, not as a flying guy who glows and throws lightning bolts.

-Don't be afraid for that life. We'll get it. - Beruche reassured him, stroking his hair affectionately, "- We'll be very happy. Fool, I don't care if you're a great basketball player, I just want you by my side. Look at Cooan and Tom, they are very happy together and don't worry so much about those things. Remember I told you that. After your graduation I talked to Cooan again. My sister told me that they are finally going to move to Portland. She got a job there as a kindergarten teacher and Tom wants to start a gym with his savings and the help of his parents.

-Yeah, I know that I talked to Tommy about a week ago too. Right after you finished at that school.

Her conversation partner nodded, smiling with a mixture of joy and nostalgia. Classes with the kids had ended just a few days ago. When Tom, Cooan and Bertie told Mr. Harding that they would not be continuing, he wanted to send them off with a party. It was very moving, many of the children they had saved from the clutches of those dreadful demons were there, in the classroom festooned with balloons and pictures they had drawn themselves, to wish them good luck.

-Don't go, Miss Connie. - A couple of kids asked her, giving her a hug. -

Poor Cooan didn't know what to say. She was barely able to wipe away a few tears. Bertie was asked the same thing. It was Sharon, one of those who commented, with a sad expression on her little face.

-I'm going to miss you so much. Miss Bertie.

-No honey, you know I will always be close by. - She smiled between emotion and complicity, caressing the chin of the baby. –

          Sharon nodded smiling a little. She shared a special bond with her two teachers. She knew their secret identities, but that she wouldn't tell anyone.

-My parents don't remember anything anymore. - She whispered to her teacher. -

-Well, don't worry, let them live like normal parents. - Bertie advised her. -

Cooan then approached after asking a red-haired, freckled boy, named Kevin, to be good to his new teachers. The boy nodded, although he was somewhat apologetic, like the others he loved his teachers very much. She also said goodbye to Sharon and whispered in her ear by way of a promise.

-We will always protect good girls like you. So that, when you grow up, you will be a brave and studious woman. And you can devote yourself to whatever you want.

-I will be a Justiciera like you. - The girl cheered up, although she immediately covered her mouth with both hands. -

The two adults laughed, and the little girl laughed with them. Then she added enthusiastically.

-Well, I'm also going to be a teacher, and a doctor...and a scientist....

-That's very nice. - Bertie mused sweetly. -

And both she and her sister loved to see the little girl like that. When they met her at the beginning of last year, before the battle with the demons, she was shy and flighty. In fact, she was traumatized by what she saw at home. Those evil cultists forced their way in, killing her parents. Fortunately, after Roy's wish, they, along with thousands of innocent people, came back to life and those terrible moments must have been erased from the girl's memory. This is what they both said to Tom when they finally said goodbye to all the children and returned to the city.

-Apparently, Landar told Roy that most people would forget all this. And that only a few might retain something in their memories. It's a kind of safeguard to get things back to normal. - Bertie stated. -

-For example, Mel and Malcolm do remember. - Cooan pointed out. -

-Maybe it's because they've had an important role to play, just as we have. - Tom interjected somewhat enigmatically. -

The two looked at him with a curious expression, although they immediately thought they understood. They were part of the group that fought against the demons and contributed to their defeat. However, Tom did not want to comment on the things he knew. Since the battle ended, the boy, far from having abandoned his esoteric studies in pursuit of his new dreams, had combined them. In some free time, he continued reading and learning things. He tried to follow the route that his teacher Anthony had marked for him. Although, despite trying to contact him again, it was impossible to reach him.

-I hope he's okay, he's so mysterious, I never knew what he was doing. - He mused. -

And it was Cooan herself who brought her boyfriend out of those thoughts when she announced to her sister.

-Anyway. I think we've earned a good rest. You know, between the battle and the end of term we've barely had time to relax. So, as soon as we can, Tom and I are going on vacation.

- Wow!" - Beruche smiled, wanting to know. - And where do you plan to go?

-Well, I suggested to your sister that we go camping. My father used to take my brother Dani and me camping. - Tom responded. - I love nature.

-And I'm looking forward to seeing beautiful places, full of trees, you know. All those things Grandma Kim used to tell us about. - Cooan reminded her sister. -

-I hope you enjoy it. -She smiled, informing them in turn. - Roy and I will be staying in town for a while. He must try his luck in one of those basketball leagues.

-I'm sure he'll get signed. - Tom said. -

And after chatting some more about other things, they parted to go home. Bertie went to her boyfriend's apartment. He now lived there. After Karaberasu's departure, Petz had returned to Japan with Sapphire. Cooan and Tom were staying elsewhere, near the outskirts. Beruche was remembering those conversations she had with her little sister and her friend when she heard Roy comment.

-By the way, I haven't seen them for several days.... Where have you been? - the boy asked her  curiously. -

-They went on vacation to a campsite in the suburbs, so they could be alone for a while. They wanted to take a moment of respite before changing their lives. You know, after finishing college, fighting demons and all that, they still haven't had much time to get to know each other thoroughly. hee, hee!

Beruche couldn't help but laugh with some mischief to the delight of her boyfriend who exclaimed in amusement.

- The kids have turned out to be very naughty!

-Well, they've been the same as we have been. - Bertie whispered to him in a honeyed voice, leaning down next to him. -

-So, you're asking for war, huh? - Roy smiled, ready to snog her anywhere he could get his hands on her. -

She loved those foreplay love games, both started little by little and moved on to bigger things, taking a good while, although this time it couldn't be like that. The doorbell rang as if it were the bell that ends a boxing match, dissipating the atmosphere of intimacy necessary for both. Reluctantly, Beruche approached to look through the grille and saw a man and a woman showing their accreditations as federal agents. Surprised, she pulled her clothes back together, signaled Roy to do the same and slowly opened.

- What is it? What do you want? - He asked them strangely. -

-Please, you must come with us, this is official business. - The man answered in a polite but firm tone. -

Roy approached them and said uneasily.

-I assure you that we have not done anything wrong, we pay our taxes, at least read us our rights.

-Don't worry," - A not very tall red-haired woman smiled. - That won't be necessary, we are not accusing you of anything, we just want to tell you something that will interest you. Please trust us.

-I don't know why," - Beruche said with a thoughtful air to add more determined. - But I think we can trust them, Roy.

-We will accompany them. - He nodded, which made the two agents quite happy, as they both looked at each other as if they had managed to save an important problem. - You tell us...

Thus, the FBI couple led their "escorts", who followed them to an official car that was waiting for them. During the ride Roy asked the reason for all this, but only got a disturbing answer. "You will be told when we arrive." Bertie calmed him down by asking for a little patience, and her boyfriend agreed. At last, they arrived at an office building where they passed through numerous security checks. They were greeted by a balding, bespectacled individual with a stocky build who invited them to sit down. He introduced himself as the assistant director of the FBI in the area.

-I will let the agents who brought you in explain why you are here. - He pointed to the man with brown hair and eyes of the same shade with which they had come. -

-Again, we thank you for coming," - he said, adding to the astonishment of his listeners. - We know that, if you had refused to do so, it would not have been possible for us to force you, given the enormous powers with which you are endowed.

Both Beruche and Roy put on a look of surprise that they could not conceal. The agent, evidently realizing this, added in a reassuring tone.

-Please, don't be alarmed, we have investigated you and we know that you and your friends have saved this planet from a terrible threat.

-Yes, we have a comprehensive dossier on each one of them. - The deputy director added. -

-So," - Roy interjected defensively. - What could they want from us anymore? If they know us as well as they say they do, they will know that we just want to live a normal life. Is that too much to ask?

-No, not at all," - the red-haired woman answered, gazing at them with her inquisitive blue eyes. - In fact, we intend to help you to achieve it. - To the astonishment of both boys, she smiled relaxedly and added. -We'll explain. This is part of a secret worldwide agreement. We have spoken to representatives from other countries. All we ask is that they help us in case of an emergency that threatens the Earth.

-We will always defend this planet. - Beruche answered more calmly, trying to calm down her boyfriend, who was not happy about it. - That was not necessary.

-But this way we will be sure of it. - The brown-haired man added. - Besides, you deserve a reward, we want to thank you for all you have done and if possible, learn from you.

- Hey buddy! - Roy replied visibly annoyed. - If you think I'm going to let myself, to be studied like a guinea pig, you're very wrong.

-It's not that,"-  the woman who explained more calmly told them. - Believe us, we have been investigating cases of paranormal and extraordinary events for years, but nothing we have seen can compare with you. The government finally recognized our work and put us on your trail. We just wanted to know if you were a threat, but we saw that you weren't, so now we have authorization to offer you a normal life.

-Yes, we know you've tried out for the Knicks. - The bald man told him kindly. - Don't worry, you will surely be chosen. But you must not demonstrate your powers.

- Hey, wait a minute! - Roy interrupted him with obvious displeasure on his face. - I don't want to get in with a plug, my friend. I'm enough on my own.

-Come on, there's no doubt about that. You can be the best basketball player of all time if you want. You'll get in, you'll get in for sure without us having to do anything. - The younger agent responded nonchalantly and added. - "You're not just a front, you're a cover. - Besides, it's not just a cover. Besides doing what you always wanted to do, think about serving not only your country, but the entire planet Earth. Neither your colleagues nor your trainer will know who you are or what your real capabilities are. You will have to earn the job yourself.

-All right," - Roy replied, giving up his anger to become more thoughtful. - If you put it that way. Anyway. - He added with an inquisitive tinge. - How do you know that?

-Let's say we have good sources, but we can't reveal them. Understand that it's a matter of national security. - The bald man responded. -

- What a joke! - Roy replied with derision. - So, you can know everything about us, and you won't even let us know how that was possible.

-We can only tell you that we have eyes and ears all over the world and that you and your friends don't exactly go unnoticed. - The younger agent responded laconically. -

The boy stared at him without understanding how it was possible. Didn't the dragon make them all forget what had happened? Wait a minute! Not everyone, Landar said, there would be people who would not forget because the Earth would have to be defended from other threats in the future. Possibly these three were some of those people. If so, they would have pure hearts, or at least good intentions. He sighed with resignation, better to leave it alone. The woman gave the boy a glance as if she wanted to reassure him.

-As we have already told you, there is an agreement. You will have no obligation to interfere, neither in politics nor in international relations. We will not ask you to fight in local wars or anything like that.

-We wouldn't either," - Roy responded dryly. -

-You could be drafted to defend your country. Remember that you are an American citizen after all. - The deputy director replied, appraising his interlocutor with his eyes. -

-And my friends are citizens of other countries as well. - He replied, adding with visible discomfort. - And I was not going to fight against them for mere disputes of power and money.

-That has happened many times in the history of mankind, not only friends but families were divided into sides. - The federal agent argued with what both young men judged as cold dispassion. -

- Just a moment! - Beruche, who was now the indignant one, intervened. -If you think we're secret weapon, you're wrong. We are not going to harm anyone in this world. We know from experience what it is to try to dominate and conquer others and we were able to get rid of that with a lot of suffering. You have no right to ask us to do something like that again.

-Of course," - Roy agreed, giving his girlfriend a comforting hand to add. - I know well what it means to fight for others. My own grandfather, as I recall, fought in World War II, and gave his life for this nation and for freedom.

At least that's what his adoptive father, John, told him when he was a boy. Grandpa Harold, as that man was called, fought, and died on Iwo Jima. So, Roy had always admired that story of sacrifice and felt as patriotic as the next man. However, the fight against the demons, his death and return to life and the discovery of his former life had changed his perspective. It was no longer a matter of thinking only of his country, but of the whole Earth. Therefore, he added with a resounding tone.

-We are not here to serve the ambitions of any country, even my own. - He sighed looking at the ceiling and tried to calm down to add in a slower tone. - It is true that I was born here, but I could have been born elsewhere on this planet. It would not be fair for any nation to take advantage of that fact.

-We know - the younger agent smiled now to reveal. - And we didn't ask you that.

-We wanted to know what their reaction would be. - The deputy director said, who seemed visibly satisfied as he added. - And we see that they are people of integrity. Understand that we had to make sure that you yourselves are not a threat to the world.

- Do you think we would want to conquer this planet? - Roy, who was now feeling quite angry at those veiled accusations, was able to reply. - That's stupid! What would we be able to do with it, deduct it from our taxes? - he remarked with sour irony. -

-Honey," - Bertie interjected, nodding sympathetically to say. - " I do understand them. And so should you. It's their job. They may have a lot of data about us, but they don't know what we think or feel. And it's their duty to make sure.

-That's right. - The red-haired woman said with a faint smile. - That's why we wanted to talk to you in person. Please understand. Our mission is to protect the world from things like the ones you have faced. And from others that may be lurking in the future. And we need to check all potential threat possibilities. It's nothing personal.

-I'm sorry. You're just doing your duty. - Roy could have apologized now. -

               Although deep down he had known the meaning of that kind of suspicion all along. He had been overpowered by evil, and things could have been worse without the help of his friends and the sailors. Nevertheless, he was pained by it all: hadn't they risked their lives to save mankind? But, thinking about it coldly, if he put in the shoes of those government guys, he would certainly have acted in a similar way. Meditating on that, he listened now with less hostility.

-Therefore, we only ask you, we even beg you, to leave Earth's internal affairs to us. Except perhaps natural catastrophes, if you could help us in that. - The agent in charge spoke up. - Only if some very dangerous extraterrestrial or malignant threat looms over this world would we ask for your help, or if you discover it first and act.

-We Justicieras would like to fight some injustice at the local level. In fact, we have been doing so. - Beruche could have said.

-We know. And at that level we don't care, we even appreciate it, if they don't take too much of a leading role or interfere with the local police authorities. - The deputy director replied. - What we ask of you is that you do not use your great global powers to alter the geopolitical balance of power.

-Don't worry about that. - Roy was able to state solemnly, adding. - All my friends and I have sworn an oath to always protect Earth and its inhabitants from any kind of global threat. But if there is none, all we want is to have as normal lives as possible.

-We understand you and will do everything we can to protect your privacy and your powers from the rest of the world. From experience we have found that it is better this way. - The young agent declared. -

-We have your friends located, as well as the rest of you, and every country you live in has committed to the same thing we say here. Starting with Japan with the Warriors of Justice. - The bald guy commented unveiling them. - Here, without going any further, we know about the whereabouts of your sisters.

-Wait a minute. - Bertie wanted to know with his heart beating faster now. - Do you know where my sister Karaberasu is?

-We do," - the deputy director said, who added, - " But according to her own wishes, she prefers not to be located now.

                Bertie and Roy looked at each other, in the girl's eyes appeared a clear internal struggle. On the one hand, she wanted to respect her sister's wishes, on the other hand she was burning with the desire to embrace her and offer her help. It was her boyfriend, however, who said to her.

-Honey, you told me yourself that in her farewell note she asked you not to look for her. I could try to locate her with my techniques, but someone once told me that things happen for a reason. And that they shouldn't try to change themselves.

-I know,"- she mused, her eyes glistening with a few tears that she hurried to wipe away, adding in a somewhat trembling voice. - But understand, Roy, she’s, my sister.

-I understand, little cube. Of course, I understand. - He whispered affectionately, putting a comforting arm around her shoulders, and pulling her to him. -

-If she ever expresses an interest in seeing you again, believe us, we'll do everything we can to help her. And, for what it's worth, we can tell you that she is well. And that there are people looking out for her wellbeing, she has good friends. I can't go on any longer. - The young agent affirmed with a kind and conciliatory gesture. -

            Beruche smiled gratefully, that meant a lot to her. Roy also nodded in acknowledgement and, changing the subject, asked the agents.

-Look, if you don't mind, I'd like to be the one to tell my friend Tom and my girlfriend's sister about all this.

-As you prefer. - The deputy director nodded. -

-For our part, we have information about you and many of your capabilities, but what we most want to know are the wishes you have. - The red-haired agent who then turned to Beruche intervened. - You already have a job, don't you? - She asked Bertie very kindly and added. - In a school in a neighborhood with a reputation for controversy, but if you want, we can transfer you to a better one.

The federal agent was referring to a school where Bertie had begun her high school internship. In fact, the young woman had accepted Melanie's proposal to study together for a graduate degree that would qualify them to teach in high schools and even universities someday. So, she replied.

-No thanks. I still must take a special course for high school. And it's not as bad as you make it out to be. Besides, I like a challenge, and as you know, I've been up against worse than a few wayward students.

-Very well, as you wish," conceded the woman, "then we have nothing more to tell you. Just try to be discreet and don't flaunt your gifts.

- You mean save people by using them? - Roy replied sarcastically. -

-If possible, it would be convenient for them to go unnoticed, the better. - Intervened the bald guy. - That's what you yourselves want, isn't it? To live like normal people, sheltered from the curious or from the media siege.

-Indeed, and we've already tried to achieve it. - Bertie commented without hiding his displeasure at the paternalistic tone used by his interlocutor. - In fact, we've managed quite well so far without their help.

-Don't think so. We, without going any further, have come up with some covers and even explanations for the whole golden warrior thing, since there are people who still remember his appearances. - Said the young brown-haired man to declare. - And as for the vigilantes, it's easier to fix that. They pass perfectly well for any group of heroines there may be in the city. People who disguise themselves as such to fight crime. It's not as uncommon as it may seem. Some even call them crazy, but better that than the truth be known. At least, for you and your peace of mind.

Neither Bertie nor Roy liked that way of describing what they were doing, but they chose to remain silent. Finally, it was that red-haired woman who spoke.

-You can go now, thank you very much for coming, would you like us to take you back to your apartment? - She offered in a rather cordial tone. -

-No, we prefer to take a walk, thank you. - Roy replied.

They were politely dismissed, and both left the building. Her boyfriend commented to Beruche that as he had told those agents, they would have to tell Tom and Cooan everything.

-I don't like it at all, Bertie. - He said in an annoyed and even worried tone. - They have given us to understand that, if we are useful to them and don't do anything that might seem inappropriate, they will leave us alone and protect our anonymity. But they will certainly keep an eye on us in every way imaginable.

-That's right. - She agreed, trying, however, to take the drama out of it, to address her colleague in a conciliatory tone. - Put yourself in their shoes, though. For them we are very difficult people to control. They must be sure of what we are like and what we want. For example, you have enormous powers, and mine, although they are not as great as yours, they also see them as something strange and potentially dangerous. They are simply afraid.

- What are they afraid of, those of us who saved them from a demonic apocalypse? Well, if they're so worried now, they could have applied themselves against that damned sect and the demons! - said an annoyed Roy, vindicating himself. - We had to do all the work for them, and it looks like we had to apologize for it.

His partner sighed, they were holding hands and she approached the boy hugging him, that seemed to calm him down.

-I'm sorry, cube. - He was able to say more calmly, - "It just seems so unfair to me. We just want to live normal lives.

-That's right. But whether we like it or not, we are on this planet, which has rulers and rules. We must abide by them. And strive to fit in as best we can. Believe me, I know that very well.

               Her boyfriend nodded. That was true. Bertie came along with her sisters from the thirtieth century and knew how to give up that life to her powers and adapt to being an ordinary human. He was born thinking he was a normal guy. The complicated part was discovering the reality. And perhaps it was even more difficult for him to return to everyday life after all he had lived and learned. However, he knew he would have to make the effort, and do it if he wanted him and his girlfriend to be happy. And of course, they had to warn their friends, although they would have to track them down for that. However, Roy lacked the energy of his friends. Without that he would not be able to move to their side. And although he was able to do so with just a little concentration, he didn't think it was a good idea to just show up in front of them, he might find them in a compromising situation. Or with other people who would be uncomfortable witnesses to that.

- Don't you know where they've gone? - He asked Bertie who shrugged her shoulders and shook her head. -

-No, and I'd really like to know what they're doing now. - The girl said, throwing the question to the wind. -

Roy looked at her resignedly, but she then gave a little exclamation as if she remembered.

- Ah! I think my sister was helping him choose a site and they had the campsite phone number.  Tom called to ask if there were any spaces left. And Cooan wrote it down for me in case anything happened.

- We just must look it up and call! Then we can contact them in a normal way. - Roy exclaimed more relieved. -

And so, it was. At a nearby campsite on the outskirts of the city, Tom, oblivious to all these disquisitions of his friends, had already set up a tent. His girlfriend put the sleeping bags inside.

-This is more romantic than staying in a hotel, and they won't find us here, hee, hee, hee, hee," the girl laughed. -

-I'd like to see Roy's face right now," - the boy said, smiling mischievously. - I'm sure he can't imagine we're here.

- Oh, Tom, I'm so happy to be by your side, have I told you yet?

-Yes, darling, a dozen times at least! - He laughed, - "Have I told you that I'm very happy too?

-At least a dozen times. - She nodded, laughing too, as she commented. - Do you remember last week when we came back from Japan?

-Of course..." - the boy agreed. - I really liked Hikawa Shrine. It is a beautiful place. And Rei was most hospitable.

- The poor thing has had a hard time lately, with the death of her grandfather. He was a lovely man, if a little strange. - She remembered who had unveiled him. - If I almost hooked him up when I was working for the Black Moon.

- What? - The boy was surprised, looking at her astonished. -

- Don't be silly! - She laughed now looking at him amused, to say more serious. - I infiltrated under the pretext of being a dojo trainer, I took one of my strongest droidas and convinced him to appoint me as instructor. He was very womanizing and all I had to do was to put a honeyed voice and my hands on his shoulders....

-I would like you to try that with me. - His interlocutor smiled now. - Let's see if it works for you...

             The young woman didn't make him repeat it, leaving her hands on his shoulders she made him sit on the floor and whispered in his ear with an artificially cloying tone while massaging his back.

- Humm, pick me!

- Wow," - he sighed, noticing how a part of him became quite animated. - I'm not surprised you got the job....

      And he turned to wrap his arms around the girl and give her a long kiss. Then when the two of them were more than in situation, the young man, taking her by the waist, pointed to the ground where a kind of large waterproof duffel bag rested.

- Come on, come over here, it's time to try the bags! - He asked his partner with a rather insinuating tone. -

There were some complicit little smiles between the two as they stripped off their clothes and hugged each other. But someone called them from outside, it was the voice of the caretaker of the campsite. The boy, visibly annoyed by the rupture of that erogenous moment, stood up, hastily putting on his pants and grumbling.

- Are we not going to be able to be in peace even here?

          Cooan on the other hand laughed, her boyfriend was comically trying to conceal a more than compromising bulge as he dressed the essentials and left the store. The boy, not sharing this humorous view of the subject, headed towards the guard, a somewhat chubby man who was waiting for them a few meters away, carelessly smoking a cigarette.

- Hey, buddy! - Tom reprimanded him. - What do you want? I'm trying to spend some time with my girlfriend, do you understand? We came here to rest and other things that are not to rest, but we need a little privacy.

-Yes, I can imagine your way of resting and I think it's very good. - The guard answered with a mischievous smile. -

-I don't give a damn if it's fine with you or not, I just don't want you to bother us anymore. I warned you very clearly when we arrived. - The boy responded visibly annoyed. -

-Quiet, my friend. - The guard asked him, making a space with his hands. - Listen, I assure you that I wouldn't have bothered you if they hadn't asked me about you.

- Who asked you? - Tom asked in surprise. -

-A tall boy," - he pointed to a height a hand span above his interlocutor by way of graphic description, to which he added. -Brown hair. He looked strong; he didn't tell me his name. He just wanted to talk to you. I told him you were busy, and he said he would come back for you.

-Well, thank you," - his interlocutor said, calmer and able to say something sorry for his outburst. -I am sorry, my friend.

- Don't worry about it,"- the guy said without giving it any importance. -

- It must be that fool Roy - he thought, between incredulous and angry - Is it possible that he wants to play one of his pranks on me even here? Listen, - he added, addressing the man in a more forceful tone. - I'll tell you what we're going to do. If that guy comes back and asks for me again, tell him I don't want to be bothered even if the sky falls on his head. Have I made myself clear enough? He can go to hell!

-Very well, my friend. As you wish," - the perplexed guard responded, anxious to leave that irritable fellow. - Don't worry, I'll tell him.

-Well, thank you very much," - Tom sighed, trying to relax, - "now, if you'll excuse me.

He turned back into the tent, where Cooan was waiting in the sleeping bag.

- What was that about, honey? - She asked her boyfriend curiously. -

-The guard told me an individual. - He described him as the man did, declaring with an air between resigned and annoyed. - He was asking for me, it couldn't be anyone else but that asshole Roy. Surely, he wants to play one of his jokes on us, but he won't succeed. - The boy smiled now, convinced of it. -

-But Tom, neither Roy nor my sister knows what campsite we're in. - The girl objected. -

-Roy with the instantaneous translation can detect our energy - her boyfriend reminded her - and be here in a second, that's no problem for him.

-I don't think so," - she replied. - I told my sister that we didn't want anyone to bother us. I just left her the phone number and not the address, in case something unexpected came up. They would have called before coming.

-Well, either she didn't tell Roy, or he didn't pay any attention to her as would be typical of him and teleported nearby and asked the guard about this place. - The boy deduced who shrugged his shoulders wishing to forget about that to return to his previous mischievous tone. - Anyway, I'll call him later, lest he wants to tell me something, but now. - He took off his pants once again to ask with an amused gesture. - Make room for me inside baby, heh, heh, heh!

The boy got into the sleeping bag with his underwear and there he began to play with Cooan, she took off his slip and threw him out laughing. They were back in the situation and just then they heard the guard's voice. He poked his head out of the tent and held out a portable phone with one hand. The girl shrieked with shock and embarrassment, covering her entire body with her jacket. Tom reacted by reaching out with one arm and grabbing a towel, which fortunately was close at hand. With it rolled up and in a very bad mood, he went out.

- What the hell are you doing here? Didn't I tell you to stop bothering us?

-I'm sorry, really, but he insisted a lot," - the man who gave him the phone stammered. - I'm leaving now. - The intimidated guard added who hurried out of the store. -

- Hello! - Tom responded as Cooan stuck her head out of the bag. - Roy, you fool! What the hell do you want now?

-I'm glad to hear from you too, man. - He replied with a shocked look on his face and pushed the phone half a meter away because of his friend's shouting. - Did you get bitten by a bug at the campsite or are you just having a bad wake-up call from your nap, huh, Kansas redneck? - he asked with derision. -

            His interlocutor shook his head as if his companion could see him and resumed speaking indignantly.

-We weren't exactly napping, Roy. I'll explain to you what happened, you spied on us with your damn translation and hit the phone to annoy us, didn't you...?

- I did what? - his astonished colleague asked - But what are you saying? Are you out of your mind, redneck? - he exclaimed in turn, and then, a little calmer, he revealed. - I was calling to tell you something serious. Bertie and I were picked up by the FBI. We had to go to their office.

- I beg your pardon? - Tom asked him, changing his angry face for a surprised one, to the astonishment of Cooan, who looked at him with perplexity, especially when her boyfriend asked his interlocutor, still in a distrustful tone. - It's not one of your jokes?

-No, I swear!  I wouldn't joke about this kind of thing, Tommy. - He assured his friend, who roughly explained what had happened. - Bertie will tell you.

Bertie standing next to her boyfriend nodded, even though she couldn't be seen by Tom. Tom, fearing that it was serious, lowered his tone.

-Then, it could be that they were the ones who had shown up here. - His interlocutor became more and more uneasy. -

-It could be, but don't worry, my friend. I asked them to let me tell you in person. Although if one of them was sent there before they talked to us, they'll just want to tell you the same thing, I suppose.

- And what is it about? - the boy could ask with some trepidation. -

-It's nothing bad. But it's a long story. And as far as I can see now is not the right time. - His companion answered more softly. - I'm sorry to have bothered you. We'll talk about it when you get back.

- Hey, Roy, I'm sorry," - his embarrassed friend apologized, lowering his voice just enough to mumble confidentially. - But being with Connie here means a lot to me.

- Easy kid, I understand very well, enjoy yourselves and I'll see you later! - He replied in a lighthearted and conciliatory way to add to his girlfriend's indication. - Bertie sends his regards. Say hello to Connie, have a good time!

-Same to you, my friend, and let me know how it goes with the Knicks. - Tom said kindly too. -

- You got it, boy! I won't call you until you get back, but when will that be? - Roy wanted to know. -

-In two days," - Tom replied. - Call me at my apartment, okay? Bye, Roy. - He said goodbye, hanging up in relief. -

He also hung up and laughed, Beruche looked at him strangely.

- What's going on?" - she asked her partner, who told her what he had guessed with laughter, she also laughed, nodding.  - So, it happened to them like it happened to us with those agents, we caught them almost, almost, ji, ji, ji, ji, ji!

- Yes, but now..." - he whispered in her ear as he began to kiss her neck, going down dangerously, between the girl's sighs. - It won't be the FBI itself who will stop me, ha, ha!...

Bertie was delighted, returning the occasional kiss. And just when it looked like the two of them could resume what they had pending, the phone rang again. Between annoyed and surprised at the coincidence, Roy picked it up. However, it didn't take him long to become very happy as he listened and only hurried to say.

- Of course, of course, yes sir, of course! Do I look good? That's great! of course I do. I'll be there, thank you for trusting me, goodbye.

- What did they tell you, Roy? Who was it? - Beruche wanted to know with an expression of impatience and curiosity. -

- That's it! - he declared enthusiastically. - It was the Knicks, they accepted me, those guys were quick. And I told them to stay out of it.

-I don't think it was their doing. - Bertie replied. - You said yourself that the scouts had seen you play.

Her boyfriend sighed and nodded, wanting to put that aside. What did it matter anyway? Whether or not the FBI had intervened, it would now be up to him to prove he could do it. So, more optimistically, he said.

-The main thing is that I'll be able to try out to play in the preseason for the final selection. I've been given a contract for a few months at base salary. I must report for training tomorrow, as a roster player.

- You see, we must tell everyone! - his girlfriend exclaimed with glee, although she was able to temper it enough to be precise. - Well, except for Tom and Cooan, until two days from now.

-The first preseason game starts in just three days. I hope you can all come to see me. - He wished he was happy now. -

-Don't worry," - Beruche encouraged him delightedly as well. - I'm sure no one will want to miss it.

- I'll start calling right away! - Roy affirmed euphorically, getting up and trying to concentrate on trying to capture the aura of one of his friends. - I'd better go in person and tell everyone.

- Remember what we promised. No instantaneous translation, - his partner forbade him to add with the weight of a good point. - What if you catch them in an embarrassing moment like Tom and Cooan?

-But Bertie, do you have any idea how much money it will cost us to conference call? Most of them live abroad. - He protested. -

-Roooy," - Beruche said, dragging his name with an inflexible yet jovial tone. - Use the phone! We can pay for it...

-Okay," he conceded with a sigh of resignation. - Well, let's use the finger!

- Listen honey - she smiled at him now with an affectionate tone. - If we really want to live normal lives we must strive to act like ordinary people. As those FBI agents have given us to understand, if we don't want to be harmed by our powers, we shouldn't try to take advantage of them either. Except for urgent things.

- Well, this is urgent, little cube. - He was able to say with a certain whiny tone, although looking into his girlfriend's eyes he immediately rectified it in a more serious way. - Yes, you're right. It wouldn't be fair.

So, he picked up the phone and, under Bertie's attentive and amused gaze, began to call his friends and sisters one by one, except for Karaberasu who they couldn't (or at least shouldn't) reach. Once they knew, they all loved the news and agreed to head over there. Only Tom and Cooan needed to be notified, but for that they would have to wait two more days...

-I can't wait to be able to tell them. - Roy sighed after finishing the calls. -

-Patience, it won't hurt to wait a little while. - His girlfriend encouraged him. -

Meanwhile in Japan the girls gathered at the Crown. They were drinking milkshakes and chatting in a relaxed atmosphere.

- How are Sapphire and Petz doing? - Usagi asked, turning to Makoto. -

-He managed to transfer here to his company's headquarters in Tokyo and is helping Petz with the store in his spare time.

- Poor guy! That's even harder than his training. - Ami smiled. -

-I was with them recently. I stopped by the sisters' apartment; they live there now. I think Petz needed some salesclerks. - Makoto told them. - And even more so now that they are already thinking about getting married and their future honeymoon.

-It would be a good possibility to earn some money while we study. - Ami said. -

-It's clear. She would give us the job for sure. We have a plug! - Minako laughed, and with her the rest. -

-Don't count on me, I have a lot to do at the shrine. - Rei told them with a somewhat dejected tone. -

She was the only one who did not participate in the good atmosphere and the jokes, limiting herself to smile weakly. Usagi immediately shook hands with her friend and said with affection in her tone.

-We are very sorry about your grandfather. But he lived a good life and was very proud of you. And that's without knowing who you are...you know what I mean.

-Sometimes I would have liked to tell him. - The girl sighed, who, however, did not want to depress the rest of her friends and added, now in a better mood. - Well, Usagi, you could take advantage and ask Petz for the job.

-I would like to, but I have a lot of things to do. - She excused herself. -

-Yes, in that order, sleep and eat! - Minako laughed. -

-Look who's talking..." - The girl who was mentioned answered, sticking her tongue out at her. - Miss working from sunup to sundown....

- You could say that either one of them would be able to run for the Estajanov prize! - Ami laughed, making the astonished looks of her friends converge on her. -

- Estaja what? - the perplexed Makoto who didn't even know how to pronounce that strange name asked her friend. -

-Well, he was a Russian worker, from the Soviet era. More precisely, a miner. Aleksi Estakhanov, famous for proposing that the increase in productivity should be the initiative of the workers. - Ami responded matter-of-factly. -

The others nodded, although she couldn't help looking at each other with that typical gesture they put on, halfway between amazement and resigned feeling of being ignorant, every time their learned colleague blurted out one of those dissertations. Ami herself, trying to make them forget that, added jovially.

-Well, it's also necessary to rest, I think it's good that Usa-Chan and Mina-Chan do it.

Usagi-Chan has elevated resting to the category of art. - Minako intervened now getting the complicit smiles of the rest. -

- Well, how about you! - The alluded one responded. - I don't know what you spend more time on, sleeping or playing video games.

-I'm sorry. - Venus replied, shaking her head, and moving one of her fingers in a negative way to affirm. - I'm very busy, apart from studying I must prepare myself to be a youth idol.

- Are you still going on with that? - Ami asked. -

-Of course, I am. And now I'm more determined than ever. - Her friend affirmed. -

- Well then, I don't think there's anyone around here who can work at Otafukuya. - Makoto sighed, returning to the starting point of this peculiar discussion, and said, - As for me, I'm studying floral arts and hope to have the chance to set up my own business. A flower shop with a coffee shop.

-Wow, that sounds great. - Ami affirmed, declaring. - Have you done a market study yet? You must check out the possible pros and cons....

- Huh? - the others exclaimed in chorus, once again looking at her with saucer size eyes. -

             Although she smiled, and just nodded, adding by way of an almost masterful explanation.

- The first thing is the business idea. Location of the premises, type of potential clientele. Then make a budget calculation, you know, fixed costs, variable costs... permits, taxes...

- My goodness!... you're really putting me off! - Makoto was horrified. -

-Don't worry, I can help you with the calculations. - Her partner smiled at the astonished faces of the rest. -

-Maybe you could ask Petz for the job. - Makoto declared. - As a tax advisor. Ha, ha!

-I don't have time. You know I must go to high school, and besides, I'm getting my C-1 English degree. That's the minimum to be able to study in an English-speaking country. - Her friend replied. -

- Are you still thinking about the study trip? - Usagi asked. -

-Aha... I would like, if possible, to go to New York for an internship. Next year we'll finish high school, and we'll have to take the university entrance exams. Hopefully I can get into medicine and go study there in the exchange program.

-You could visit Beruche and Roy. - Rei said with a happy smile for her friend. - I'm sure they could give you a hand.

-I talked to Bertie-Chan about it. She was very happy when I told her. She assured me that both she and Roy will help me in any way they can. - The girl said with visible satisfaction. -

-And what about Tommy and Cooan? - Usagi asked, adding thoughtfully. - I remember they came to see you a few days ago, Rei.

-Yes, we showed Tom the shrine. He liked it very much. He even had time to do a performance for the charity days we hold every year. At least he and Cooan helped me out some. It came in handy, with Yuuichirou busy at the university... You know, those things we do!... The decorations, the sale of amulets..." - She now declared with a certain tone of covert reproach, causing all the others to look away in embarrassment. -

-It's just that I... had a lot to do at home. - Makoto apologized. -

-Yes...and me, I was called from Osaka to do a casting. - Minako was able to say. -

-I couldn't miss the academy. I'm sorry Rei. - Ami mumbled lowering her head. -

- And what is your excuse? - She wanted to know, looking at Usagi who was lowering her head in a hurry. -

-Well," - the girl laughed, putting a hand to her neck. - I forgot!... I was with Naru-chan. I'm sorry. I'll help you next time, okay?

The priestess sighed, shaking her head disapprovingly and leaving her friend for impossible. The girls drew a thick veil over that and continued with other conversations when a familiar voice greeted them. Looking towards where it came from, they recognized one of their companions from the outer group...

- Setsuna! How nice to see you! - Minako saluted her. -

-Yes, sit down and have a drink with us. - Rei offered kindly. -

Although the young woman's face was serious. Apparently, she hadn't come to visit them just to chat. In response, she said in a serious tone.

-Spacetime has been traversed in an anomalous way. I felt strong currents. Something has destabilized the continuous flow of time.

- You mean someone has traveled through time? - Ami asked her. -

Her interlocutor nodded. Usagi asked, this time with the utmost seriousness.

- When did it happen?

-A few hours ago. I detected it in America.

- Could it have something to do with our friends? - Minako wanted to know. -

-It could be. In any case, for the moment, it's none of our business. - Usagi replied. -

-Here we go again..." - Rei sighed, turning to her friend. - Usa-Chan, tell me we won't have to go through the same thing again with you, without being able to tell us anything.

-It's not the same. I assure you. This time I don't know what's going on. I am as surprised as the rest of you. - The questioned woman revealed to her friend, asserting. - We will have to wait. And if something bad happens or there is another threat, this time we will intervene without hesitation. Unless I am told otherwise.

            The group sighed, letting it be. Things were indeed beyond their influence so far. They would have to wait and see how things would turn out. But it would not be long before events would unfold that would change the course of everyone's lives.

**START**