GWA23E

**START**

**A new misfortune**

As after a few days’ things seemed to be going well, the boys had relaxed a bit at the College. No other demon had bothered them again and that was always good. Even so, Roy was not confident knowing what had happened in past experiences and continued to train more and more intensely with Tom's help. He taught him some tricks and keys.

-You have to focus your strength and try to anticipate the opponent's attack. - The boy explained patiently. -

- And how do you do that? Watching Karate kid? - his colleague smiled, to add jocularly. - Will I have to wax and polish wax?

And his friend told him to try to hit him, although he added a nuance.

-Try to do it without resorting to your powers. Otherwise you'll kill me.

-Don't worry. - Roy assured him. -

And there he went, pretending to hit him with a fist, so slow and sluggish that his trainer shook his head without reacting, criticizing him.

- Not like that! That's so ridiculous that even a child would block you. Do it normally, by human standards, of course.

- Hey, I'm human. - Roy vindicated himself, looking a little annoyed by that remark. -

-Well, you get my point. - His interlocutor said with a conciliatory tone. - That's not what he meant.

His interlocutor nodded, this time he did try to punch him at a level equivalent to a normal person. Tom deflected it without problems, sensing the trajectory and making his partner move, by way of demonstration he scored two quick blows with the edge of his hand on the back of the neck and a punch in the liver.

- You see? - If you block and move the opponent away you leave him exposed in vulnerable spots. When you can do this at your real level, few of those demons will last you more than one round.

-Thank you, Tommy. - His friend smiled giving him a light pat on the back. -

            And so they continued to practice. The truth is that Roy had made progress in the mastery of his skills, although not as spectacularly as at the beginning. What had advanced greatly was his relationship with Beruche, which, little by little, was growing closer and closer. They began to hang out together assiduously, but still treated each other only as two good friends. Tom and Cooan had also become very close. After her heartbreak with Roy, the young woman really took notice of him. In addition to a good friend she saw a guy who could listen to her and who shared many common hobbies. Apart from those evenings listening to music and practicing dance, the boy asked her to be his partner for a dance contest that was held in a local club in the city and she accepted. And so they went, ready to compete.

-I'm very nervous. - Cooan said to her sister who came to accompany them. - I hope I don't make a fool of myself.

-Don't be silly, you're the best dancer I've ever seen along with Mako-chan. - Bertie encouraged her. - Too bad Kalie and Petz couldn't make it because of work.

-If you do it as usual, you'll have the jury in the boat. - Roy, who didn't want to miss it either, chimed in to add. - You must admit, Kansas hick, that I'm not a bad dancer, but when it comes to dancing you beat me by a long shot. I'm sure you'll have no rival.

-Thank you, my friend. - the boy who kindly turned to his partner, responded. - Ready?

-I think so. - She was able to say. -

Tom encouraged her by giving her a kind smile and saying in a confident tone.

-Do it the way you know how. Just like when we practiced. You're the best dancer I've ever seen. Whatever happens, don't worry. The result is not important. What it counts is that we enjoy the experience.

Cooan nodded, that boy knew how to make her feel safe and appreciated. She wished not to disappoint him and thought it best to take his advice. She was going to have fun with one of her favourite hobbies, without worrying about winning. So, after warming up a bit, they said goodbye to their friends who went to watch the contestants at some tables near the track. All the contestants, about a dozen couples, were gathered in the center of the arena. The boys were dressed in suits and ties and the girls in elegant evening gowns. Cooan's was mauve, adorned with a white flower pinned at the neckline. There were murmurs of conversation among the couples, but they soon ceased when the spokesman and jury foreman arrived. The latter, microphone in hand, declared.

-I'm going to explain the rules. It's very simple, we'll play some songs. The couples will dance to their own tunes. Our jurors will be watching their evolutions and when they consider that a couple does not maintain the level, they will tap them on the shoulder. That will mean that they have been eliminated and must leave the dance area. Obviously the couple that is left on the dance floor at the end will be the winner... I wish you all luck. And let the contest begin!...

Soon he left the dance floor and the music started to play. A somewhat slow song that everyone danced along to. Here the judges eliminated a couple of couples who didn't seem to have much technique. Later another song came on which was a tango. Tom and Cooan danced it really remarkably. Three more couples fell here, though. The third song was a rumba which they mastered well, leaving four surviving couples, including the two boys.

-They're doing great, little cube. - A lively Roy commented to Beruche. - They're already in the semi-finals, as it were....

-Yes, my sister learned to dance in Nemesis when she was very young. - Her interlocutor said. - She had some great droids instructors.

- Dro, what? - the perplexed boy asked her. -

-Droids, some androids we had as servants. - His companion explained. - One of them taught us how to dance.

- So you dance like that too? -The young man wanted to know. -

-Not as well as she does, but we were all instructed in ceremonial and courtly etiquette. - She declared. - We were the queen's chambermaids.

-Chambermaids! Do you mean waitress? And you brought her the beers? - the boy asked sardonically, adding. - "I hope she tipped you well.

- You're a fool! - his companion said, shaking her head in amusement as she added. - Among our duties was to know how to behave at social events, and that included dancing.

-You'll have to teach me a little, ha, ha! - he laughed, confessing. - I'm very good at jumping around, but dancing like they do... I'm terrible at it.

-If you promise not to step on my feet too much, ha, ha, ha! - the girl laughed in turn. - I might consider it.

And finally, after a short break, the finalists listened to the last song. The one that would give the winner. It was upbeat, by an artist that Roy was familiar with but didn't quite recognize...Meanwhile, Cooan was sighing a bit nervously and ready to start that last round, Tom smiled. He really knew whose tune it was. And that song certainly seemed to have been written for them. Since he could hear the lyrics as he carried Connie with great elegance and dexterity.

She wants to dance

(Who), she wants to dance with me

Oh,oh, yeah (dance with me)

There's a girl I've been waiting to see

And I really get the feeling that she likes me

'Cause she said so, but not in so many words

I've got to tell you what I've heard

-Dance separately. - The judge ordered. -

         They all moved away from their partners executing dance steps and moving very freely. Although the jurors touched two more. The rest moved step forward, step backward, clapping their hands, and to the beat. There was one boy who was tapped on the shoulder as he lost his rhythm. His discouraged escort had to follow him off the dance floor. All that remained was Tom and Cooan against another couple....

She doesn't want no wild romance

When she's with me she only wants to dance

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll hold her so tight next to me

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll let her be what she wants to be

Now I know I've been out of touch

And I never meant to hurt my baby,oh, so much

'Cause I love her and I think she love me

And that's the way it's got to be

- In pairs again! - Another of the judges exclaimed and the participants obeyed. -

          Now it was their turn to evolve by twirling and twirling on the runway. Cooan made the skirt of her dress rise in a very graceful way. Tom certainly looked like a consummate dancer carrying it with a gentleness that almost seemed ethereal...This is what an admiring Roy commented to a no less impressed Bertie.

-It's amazing!  They look like Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire. Your sister and the redneck from Kansas are the sensation of this contest...

          And although the girl didn't know who her interlocutor might be referring to, she nodded smilingly as she continued to delight in the evolutions of her friends with that music...

When we're together we never fight

We've got better things to do tonight

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll hold her so tight next to me

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll let her be what she wants to be

She wants to dance

She wants to dance

            The competition had already reached its climax. The girl from the other couple had the misfortune to slip a little and that eliminated them from the contest. Now, far from stopping the music, Tom and Cooan continued to evolve to the delight of the audience amidst the clapping of the audience. Their friends applauded like the rest of the spectators and had a great time.

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll hold her so tight next to me

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll let her be what she wants to be

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll hold her so tight next to me

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll let her be what she wants to be

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll hold her so tight next to me

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll let her be what she wants to be

(She wants to dance with me. Rick Astley, credit to the artist)

          When the song ended there was a standing ovation dedicated to the winners. Both greeted the audience and hugged each other, full of joy.

-The winning couple of the contest is Thomas Alan Rodney and Constance Malinde. - The judge proclaimed. -

- Constance? - Bertie was surprised. -

-I didn't see that coming. - Roy smiled. -

          So it was, they took the prize, a pretty silver cup with two figures of a boy and a girl intertwined in the dance that he gave to the delighted young lady.

-I want you to have it, Connie. - The embarrassed boy offered her. -

-But, we've both won it. - The surprised girl was able to say. - It's yours too...

-So you'll have a nice souvenir. - He smiled. - I value that much more.

She looked at him between astonished and grateful. She noticed more and more that gallant and handsome boy. They barely knew each other and he had given her that trophy that would undoubtedly mean a lot to him as well. She couldn't help but associate it with the only gift that heartless Rubeus had ever given her, a bomb. And every time she compared the way of being of one and the other she realized even more the abysmal difference.

- What a fool I was! - she mused, shaking her head slightly. -

- You were saying? - Tom wanted to know. -

-Nothing, you're very kind. Thank you. I'm very happy! - The girl smiled brightly. -

Tom almost blushed without being able to help it. Having her there, next to him and seeing her so radiant with happiness made his heart beat faster. He didn't know whether fortunately or unfortunately, the voice of his friend Roy brought him out of his state of embarrassment.

- Congratulations! - he exclaimed. - You're the best dancing couple I've seen since Rogers and Astaire. Didn't I tell you, cube?

-Yes," - Bertie nodded, smiling with amusement, although she immediately asked her sister, also in a jocular tone. - Constance?

-Well. - The girl blushed. - When Tom went to register us, he inadvertently called me Connie.  You guys, and everyone at the University, call me that. I guess whoever was registering the contestants must have thought it was a diminutive of that name...

-Yeah, ha, ha! - Tom put a hand to the back of his head. - The truth is that it was my fault. When I was about to say her name I said Connie out of inertia... I'm sorry.

-No, it's okay. I really like the sound of it. - She replied smiling at him with an affectionate expression. -

And it was like that. Constance, or constancy, which was what that name meant. She had certainly lived up to the meaning of that name since it changed her life. Just as Rei told her, arranging things little by little. Now she felt really happy next to that boy. And he must have been delighted too, since Tom's blush had to be more than perceptible when Roy intervened to comment in a relaxed way and get him out of that quagmire....

- Whose song was that? - he asked. - It sounded familiar, but I don't remember.

-The great Rick Astley. - His friend replied. - She wants to dance with me..." He sang a fragment with a voice that rivalled the original interpreter, while he looked lovingly at Connie. -

She doesn't want no wild romance

When she's with me she only wants to dance

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll hold her so tight next to me

She wants to dance with me

'Cause I'll let her be what she wants to be

Now she was the one who blushed. Her companions smiled at the sight of them. It was clear that they made a wonderful couple. Especially in Beruche's eyes, who knew how important it was for her sister to have found such a boy. Roy was also happy for his friend. The boy deserved it. You didn't have to be very smart to realize that he had a crush on Connie as soon as he met her.

-I'm really happy for you, buddy. - He thought even amused. - You've finally found a girl worthy of you. But you'll have to keep working on that shyness.

                So, to break the atmosphere of embarrassment and awkward silence of those two, he proposed jovially.

- What do you say we go for a drink? I'm starving. How about some hot dogs? My treat.

- Yours? - Tom marvelled, pointing at him in amusement. - I don't believe it!

-Yeah, me. What's the matter, redneck?  -His friend laughed and replied, pretending to be offended. - It's not like I haven't invited you more times...

-Yes, you've invited me many times, but I've always had to pay for it! - the other one answered with humorous mockery combined with resignation as he raised his palms upwards, sticking his elbows to his body and finishing off in a hurry. - And today I have hardly any money on me, for dancing it wasn't very appropriate to have coins jingling in my pants...

The girls burst out laughing, she could well imagine that! And also poor Tom having to pay after his friend's "invitation"! It was Beruche who was able to say, once she had controlled herself enough to stop laughing.

-Don't worry, Tommy. This time he's going to pay...on his own account. Or, in the Moon´s name, I'll punish him!

-Okay. If you put it that way, I'll pay, I promise. - He sentenced. -

- Now I trust you! - Tom laughed, and the rest with him. Meanwhile the boy added jovially. - It may not be anything else, but this booby always keeps his promises.

          And the others agreed to that, heading for somewhere to dine. Now, almost imperceptibly, couples were being formed. Bertie walked with Roy, stoically listening to his witticisms and laughing frequently. Meanwhile, a little further back, Cooan was walking along with Tom in silence, though exchanging a few glances. She felt more and more comfortable at his side. He was kind and always listened to her. He also showed romanticism, sensitivity and told her things about his home, his parents and his brother. For all this and much more, the young woman had been valuing him more and more beyond simple friendship. However, it was not in her mind, at least for the moment, to embark on a deeper relationship. She wanted to be sure she wouldn't make a mistake again, and Tom was a patient boy who enjoyed the rapprochement between them as much as she did, and who didn't mind giving her time to think about that important decision.

-I'm sure of it. We could be very happy together. - Cooan thought, walking close to him. –

        The group continued walking until Roy indicated to them, taking them out of these reflections.

-Well, since I'm buying, I get to pick the place. Let's go to a hot dog joint. The best one for my taste is on Broadway Avenue and Seventy-second. Besides, it's not too far from here.

              The others agreed and let him guide them, since he knew the city very well. They had to walk for a while, but they didn't mind that. Then they went to the subway taking the red line that left them almost in front of the same door. Once there, their cicerone asked them.

- How do you like them? I guess, with mustard, pickles and sauerkraut, that's the most typical. We can order them to go.

-I'd rather sit down and eat it without getting dirty. - Bertie commented. -

- Yes, especially with the clothes we're wearing! - Tom laughed. -

- You certainly are! You're a dull bunch, you haven't the slightest sense of adventure. - Roy joked. -

The others looked at him in disbelief, although they immediately laughed. They came in, ordered and sat down to savour it.

-It's very tasty. - Cooan praised, adding amused. - Either that or I'm really hungry.

-Both, I'd say. - Her sister affirmed jovially. -

And after eating a few hot dogs, the girls said they were full. The same thing happened to Tom. Although Roy gave the impression that he had a hole in his stomach.

- Won't they make you sick? - A concerned Cooan asked him as she watched him eat his sixth hotdog in a row. -

- No way!" - he replied nonchalantly. -

-You eat more than Usagi herself. - The perplexed Bertie commented. - And that's hard!

-When the girls come to see us, I'll bring her here. - Her interlocutor smiled, suggesting jovially. - We could even have a gobbling contest!

Bertie and Cooan looked at each other and laughed, it was sure to be a close one! Finally, after a while they returned to their lodgings. Tom and Roy escorted the girls to Roy's apartment, which the girls shared with their older sisters. When they arrived, Petz opened the door, greeting them jovially.

- Well, good evening! How did you enjoy yourselves? - she asked. - Did you have a good time?

Her sister Cooan proudly showed her the trophy they had won. She exclaimed.

- Champions!

- Congratulations to both of you! -Her sister congratulated them. -

-Thank you very much. - Tom smiled shyly. -

Kalie soon came over as well. Her little sisters gave them a brief summary of the day.

-So you're already so full that you don't feel like eating dinner. - Petz commented. -

-I'm still a little hungry. - Roy replied with a mischievous smile. -

- I just don't know where he throws it! - Bertie sighed with a smile. -

-Maybe here. – Her sister Kalie declared, not shying away from hugging one of the boy's arms. -

            Even Roy smiled a little smile of circumstance. That girl was certainly a real go-getter! Nothing like her sisters. Bertie even frowned, but it soon passed, especially when Karaberasu released her prey and commented in amusement.

- Come on, sis, I'm not going to steal it from you!

-Don't be ridiculous. - The frightened alluded one was able to reply almost in a whisper. -

This led to laughter and Cooan added, trying to alleviate her sister's blushes.

-Perhaps Petz, who is the best cook among us, could prepare some of her specialties one of these days, and see if that would take Roy's appetite away.

-No problem for me. - He affirmed. -

-It would be my pleasure. - Petz smiled, adding with not too much modesty. - I was never bad at cooking, but now I've perfected my cooking techniques with the help of my friend Mako-chan.

          So, they informally agreed on that. No date was set, though. Thus the boys took their leave. It was already late and they did not wish to disturb the girls. And, above all, they had to get into the college without getting caught.

-That won't be difficult. - Roy commented nonchalantly to his friend when they were already next to the wall. -

-We'll have to make sure no one is watching. - Tom told him with caution. -

-I can move so fast that no one will see us. Let me grab you and fly you up. – His friend asked him. -

The latter didn't seem too convinced, although he finally agreed. True to his words, Roy rose with him without difficulty and with lightning speed jumped over the wall that protected the entrance to the campus. Before Tom knew it, they were at the entrance to his college.

- And are you also able to go through doors like ghosts? - he asked now with evident disbelief and concern. -

- No, you Kansas hillbilly! - He laughed, commenting mischievously as he pulled something out of his pocket. - I don't need that. I have the master key.

And so it was. A small key that opened that door. Tom smiled, shaking his head and sighing.

- I should have known!

And they accessed the interior without any trouble. At least they thought so, since someone had been watching them since they entered the building. As it was, the days passed. Fortunately, they were free of demonic attacks. The following week, on a quiet Saturday afternoon after yet another victory for Roy's team, with a more than outstanding performance by him that everyone applauded (Cooan as always in her cheerleading position and Bertie in the stands, although near the bench), the four of them went to the movies. The boy went to take a shower in the dressing room and then went to his room where, with the music of "Queen" playing at full blast, he was looking at the billboard of a newspaper he had bought. Tom came in a short while later, turning the music down slightly to ask his friend.

- Are you watching a movie?

- That's right, man, at a movie theatre near my neighbourhood. - He informed him, looking with interest at the entertainment section. -

- Well, it's already past half past three, so we'd better go get the girls. - His companion warned him, taking a slow look at his watch. –

- You're right! - Roy admitted, who, as usual, was running out of time. -Thank goodness I only have to get dressed.

And in just five minutes he was ready and the two were able to arrive safely at the appointed time. The meeting point was located at the gates of the College and both girls were waiting there. They were pleased with their punctuality (especially Beruche, who still didn't trust Roy). Both welcomed them with a smile and Cooan asked.

- Have you found any good movies?

- I don't know; I don't know... - Roy said with a relaxed gesture to propose in a jovial way. - How about Exorcist III?

Tom and the girls glared at him, but also with an unmistakable sense of humour, and Bertie went even further, giving him a good kicking on his head...

- Ow, hey cube, that hurts! - he complained, vigorously rubbing his neck. -

- Don't you get tired of so many demons, Roy," she reproached him with her arms up in the air, although with a clear gesture of humour. -

- I'm sorry," he said, shrugging his shoulders with a silly little smile. - It was a bad idea.

- Look, you girls might like this one. I loved it when I was a kid. - Tom interjected, glancing at the billboard. - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

- Oh, how lovely! - Cooan exclaimed, to add with almost professional interest. - Yes, I think it's for children, I've heard them say something about it at practice.

- I don't think so! - Roy laughed, waving a hand. - Or is it just that you have some very strange kids....

His friends looked at him strangely, but the boy told Tom to read more carefully. He did so, and he read the part where it was advertised more carefully and a blush came to his cheeks....

- It's true, it says version X," he was able to clarify, rather ashamed -

-Aijo, Aijo, let´s go home to work ha, ha! - Roy mocked again, proclaiming jocularly. - I know what it's all about, there are some dwarves who have some stuff... - he made a space with his hands to the blush and surprise of the girls. - This big! And Snow White is having a great time...

- Shut up, you, slut! - Bertie was scandalized, red as a tomato, giving him a new capon in the same place as the previous one. -

- Ow! - the beaten man complained again and after rubbing the damaged area he took the newspaper from his still embarrassed friend. -Bring it here, Kansas redneck, you don't know how to look for movies. - He then pointed to the newspaper with one finger and exclaimed with great joy. - Look, they're showing Superman again, it's one of my favourites.

- I haven't seen it, what's it about? - Cooan asked. -

- I hope it's not another one of those movies of yours. - Beruche added suspiciously, looking at Roy with narrowed eyes. -

- No, I assure you. - He reassured her, adding, not without a clear tinge of nostalgia. - I saw it as a child with my father.

- He's a guy who flies and fights against injustice by helping people with his powers. - Tom explained sombrely. -

- We could use someone like that, besides the Golden Warrior and the Justicieras. – Cooan declared. -

- Well," - Roy interjected with undisguised smugness. - I think that warrior can manage very well on his own.

- Yes, but we could use him anyway. - Beruche agreed with her sister. -

- Do you know that when I was a kid they used to tell me that I looked a lot like him? - Tom laughed. -

- It's true, now that you mention it. - Roy smiled, trying to curl a lock of his hair without his friend letting him, to add jocularly. - And you're from Kansas... Let me guess, you had a neighbour named Lana!

             His friend merely shook his head looking up. There was some more laughter and Cooan then declared.

- Well, I'm curious to see it.

- Then if you want, we'll meet tonight, it's on at nine o'clock. - Roy informed them who remembered them with pleasure. - And as it is a weekend we don't have to be back before ten o'clock.

- So we'll meet at half past seven at the bus stop. So that we have enough time to get there. - Bertie said, also visibly pleased. -

They all agreed and made the appointment at that time. In the meantime, the sisters split up to go to their after-school activities. Cooan only took a stroll around the court, as all the sporting events were over by that time. However, she saw Serena and Susy there.

-Hi, girls. How are you? - She greeted them affably. -

Although they didn't seem to be in a good mood. Cooan noticed that they were dressed in street clothes like her. Perhaps they had been practicing some choreography after the game and had just finished. They would have showered and changed by now. She didn't see that they had sports bags, though.

-We're meeting here to chat after the game. We're very worried about April. - That was Susy told her, visibly upset. -

And so it was. The young second captain had not been at the game. As Melanie was now busy cheering on the Football team, it was Serena who took the lead.

-I know she's having a hard time for some reason. - Cooan commented. - But I don't know what.

-We have no idea either. - Serena admitted. -

-I tried to talk to her the other day, but we couldn't finish the conversation. - Her interlocutor told them. -

-You're a good girl Connie, she appreciates you. - Susy affirmed. - Maybe it would be a good idea for you to look her up and finish that pending conversation. - She suggested. -

Cooan nodded and said goodbye to her companions as she walked away.

-I'll try to find her...

For her part, Bertie went to the chess club. She hadn't been there for a few days due to the many things she had to do after returning to school. There, Hank Williams and two other guys were playing a few games. Hank was watching his classmates. When he saw the newcomer he immediately greeted her enthusiastically.

-I'm glad to see you. It's been a long time since you've stopped by.

-Yeah, I know, I'm sorry. - She apologized. - I've had a lot on my plate lately.

-Of course. - Hank agreed. - It's great that you recovered from that accident.

-Thank you very much. - Bertie replied with a suggestion. - Do you play a game?

-You're too good for me. - He sighed. -

Although he certainly regretted that, since he didn't think it only applied to chess. Bertie was a beautiful, intelligent, good girl. Really special. Unfortunately, though, she was no different from the rest in one thing. She had fallen for that scoundrel Malden. In the end the attempt that he and some of his classmates wanted to set in motion to expel him came to nothing. Both Roberts and Melanie had been seen with that scoundrel, chatting as if nothing had happened. It was clear that they had no intention of denouncing him.

-April told me. She doesn't understand it either, but that's the way it is. Apparently, it will be impossible to get rid of him. - He sighed with resignation as he remembered that. -

         Hank knew from experience that he couldn't compete with that guy. Well, in his case, neither against him nor against almost anyone else. If only she had gone for another, more decent guy! At least he had her in his club to play and chat with.

- Are you all right? - She wanted to know when she saw his downcast face. -

-Yeah, yeah, sure. - The boy suddenly reacted. -

-Hey, it's no big deal. You mustn't make yourself look bad. You're a good player too, Hank. - Bertie encouraged him, thinking that's what his comment and his expression were all about. - And we have to practice for the next championship.

-That's true. - He was able to smile. -

And they began to play a game. She used white pieces on this occasion. The boy tried his best to keep an eye on his opponent and try to anticipate his moves. However, Bertie was very good. She was gradually enveloping him in a tangle that she was weaving with her pieces. And just when it looked like Hank might have a chance to get ahead of an attack, his opponent had already set him up on a completely different flank. So, after three quarters of an hour, the boy had to hear the inevitable from her.

-Check, mate.

-Playing against you is the chronicle of a defeat foretold. - He admitted. -

-I'm not worthy of being compared to a work by Gabriel García Márquez, but thank you, ji, ji, ji! - The young woman laughed affably. -

Hank thought she was much better than any novel. And just to see that smile on that girl's face was worth being defeated twenty times over. So he asked her.

- Do you have time to give me a rematch?

Bertie consulted her wrist watch and replied jovially.

-I don't see why not.

For her part, Cooan searched for April for a while. At last she reached the girl's room. She knocked on the door and waited. It opened, but it was Melanie.

-Hi Connie. - Connie greeted, looking at her strangely. - Tell me, did you want something?

-No..., well, yes, I was coming to see April to talk to her a little. - Her interlocutor told her. -

-Well, I haven't seen her since morning. - Melanie commented. - Since she goes to another school for her classes, it takes her a while to come.

-Yes, that's true. Here we have the teachers' college and the residence halls. - Cooan recalled.  - And she studies law...

-Maybe she's still in class. - Her classmate conjectured. -

-I thank you for wanting to help her. Roy told me that, in your country, you learned useful things for that. - The captain commented without wanting to be more precise. -

-I hope so. I'll be honest, I don't know if my knowledge can help her, but I hope so. Thank you, Mel.

-Hey, by the way, congratulations! - Melanie congratulated her. - For your triumph, I mean, the dance championship you and Tom won.

-Thank you very much. - Cooan smiled broadly. -

-Tommy's a great kid. You're very lucky. - Her friend affirmed. -

-Yes, well, I have to go and see if I can find April. -The blushing girl was able to reply. -

She left and Melanie watched her walk away with a smile. Connie was certainly a great girl. And Tom was an excellent boy. Just by looking at the blush on her companion's face she could tell that she was equally interested in him.

-They make a very nice couple; I hope they'll be very happy together. - She said to herself, happy for both of them. -

She then had a date with Malcolm who had also proved to be a great guy.

-I'd like April to be happy too. I don't know what's wrong with her. She's been weird for too long now. And she won't tell me anything. I appreciate Connie trying to talk to her. Hopefully she can help her.

In the meantime, Bertie won Hank again in barely half an hour. The young man didn't seem very focused on the game. She noticed.

- What's on your mind? - she asked. - You don't seem very focused.

-Nothing, I just don't know how to penetrate your defences. - He declared in a totally sincere way. -

Neither in chess, nor in other orders of life, of course. Although the girl did not answer to that, since she looked once more at her watch, declaring.

-I have to go now, I have to meet in a while and I have to do some things.

-Of course. - He mused, not daring to ask with whom she would have this appointment when he imagined it. - Will you stop by tomorrow? - He asked in the hope that I would. -

-Surely. - Bertie replied. - I want to go training again to get ready. Let's see if I can face Sophie once again in the next tournament.

And so she said goodbye. She went back to her room to review a little and then get ready to leave. When she arrived she didn't see her sister and thought amused.

-She must be listening to music with Tom. She's become very fond of his "greatest hits" hee, hee, hee!

Nevertheless, Cooan was trying to locate April. And despite her best efforts she had no luck. That girl seemed to have vanished into thin air.

-I don't have time to look for her all afternoon, I have to go get ready. - She said to herself. -

And she returned to her room, where Bertie was finishing reviewing some notes.

-Well, I think I'm all caught up now. - She thought with satisfaction as her sister came in. - How are you doing? - She greeted her. -

-Great. - Cooan replied. - But I'm a little late.

- Have you listened to much music? - Bertie smiled. -

- Music? No. I haven't been with Tom. - Cooan replied and told her. - I went around trying to reach April. But I didn't see her.

-Well, you'll have a chance tomorrow. For now, we'd better tidy up a bit. - Bertie commented. -

Her sister nodded. On the other hand, the object of her search had left the university hours ago. She couldn't help thinking of the one she had always thought of as her sister. Whatever it was, it devastated her to see her thrown into that kind of life.

-I can't allow you to do that, especially not with a new-born child! It's not an appropriate environment for her. Even if Paige wants nothing to do with me, I still consider her my elder sister. - She said to herself out of grief and pity. -

She reached Paige's apartment, but stopped at the beginning of the hallway. She could see two women, one blonde and one brown-haired, knocking on her sister's door. She didn't assume anything strange. Unless...

-No, that couldn't be it. - She thought - But perhaps she would also accept to be company for other women, in that we would certainly be the same. - She sighed, reflecting sadly. - I wouldn't do it for money, though. It would be for love.

She couldn't help but think of Melanie. Her roommate had tried in vain to elicit from her the reason for the sadness she could see in her. Of course she didn't reveal anything, though. How could she? Anyway, she stopped thinking about it when she saw those individuals enter Paige's apartment and close behind her. She approached as quickly as she could without making a sound and glued an ear to the door. She could hear her sister's voice in the background, almost pleading.

-I did what you wanted. Please! My daughter is innocent. Don't hurt her!

-Don't be afraid for your little girl. - A velvety feminine voice commented. - I guarantee she'll have a very interesting future. I can see that.

-If my friend says so, I assure you she will. - Another drier and slightly guttural woman's voice interjected, adding. - We just want information about those two.

-I don't know anything about either of those girls. I don't even know who you're talking about. - Paige denied. -

-But your sister does. - The other voice commented. -

-I don't talk to April anymore. - The girl replied with an unpleasant tone. -

-It's a pity. We'll have to be the ones to talk to her. - The woman with the velvetier voice replied. -

- Wait! -Paige asked them imploringly now. - I'll call her. I'll ask her to do it for me, but I beg you to stay away from her. Please!

-That will depend on your success in persuading her. - The other woman added with a tinge of menace that she did not bother to conceal. - I assure you that we will be more than capable of convincing her.

That conversation frightened April. They were talking about her! And her sister, who never shied away from standing up to anyone, seemed to be terrified in front of those two. Who could they be? To avoid trouble, she moved away from that hallway and hid in a nearby cleaning room. She waited for a while until she heard Paige's apartment door open. Through the keyhole she saw those two women come out. They were dressed in normal attire and walked slowly. One of them, the blonde, was more visible, had beautiful blue eyes and was really gorgeous. She stopped then and commented to her companion.

-I can feel it. Our meeting with the Justicieras won't be long in coming.

-Hey Meriak. - The other one wanted to know. - What did you mean when you said about the future of that human baby?

And in her hiding place, April caught herself thinking.

- Human baby? Why does she call her that?

The answer came to her when she looked through the keyhole again. She had to cover her mouth to keep from shrieking. Her eyes widened and horror shaped her face. One of those women, the brown-haired one, was now sporting blood-red eyes and long fangs protruded from her mouth. Her companion, not seeming at all disturbed by the frightening sight, commented.

-Iama. Do not adopt your true appearance here. You know the orders.

And to April's amazement, that girl immediately changed those grotesque features to those of a normal girl with brown eyes and a graceful countenance as she agreed.

-That's right. That damned Wiseman doesn't have much patience.

-He summoned us to begin to do the work that those useless lackeys of his have been unable to carry out. - The other individual declared. - And that's what we're going to do, whatever it takes. Or he could summon others...you can imagine who....

Her companion nodded and at last those two walked away down the rickety corridor. April hardly dared to breathe for a couple of minutes. Finally, plucking up her courage, she slowly opened the door and did not hesitate to go to her sister's apartment. She knocked desperately on the door. Soon Paige opened the door in surprise. When she saw her, however, she exchanged her gesture for an angry one and blurted out.

- Didn't I tell you I never wanted to see you here again?

But this time she had no use for that ruse. Her sister pushed her in as she closed the door. At a glance she saw that the baby was asleep and whispered to Paige with a mixture of shock, fear and indignation.

- Spare me the comedy, I know all about it! I've seen those women or whatever they are.

And now it was her companion who changed her aggressive expression to one of horror.

-For God's sake, don't go near them! - she asked with visible anguish and dread. -

-Don't worry, after what I've seen, I wouldn't think of it. - She assured her interlocutor, to ask between curious and frightened. - What's going on here? What are those things, Paige?

And the questioner turned her back to her, sobbing with fear and sadness. After a few interminable seconds she was finally able to reply.

-They are succubus.

-They are what? - the astonished April asked, without understanding. - What the hell is that?

-You said it yourself. They're devils, female devils, I swear! That's what they are. And I'm not speaking metaphorically. - Her terrified companion explained. -

-I know; I've seen one of them transform in front of me. - April admitted. - And I was abducted by two of those demons the last time I came to see you, when I was leaving....

Her sister hugged her now, still crying, between moans she was able to apologize.

- I'm sorry! I'm so sorry, I'm really sorry! I didn't want to put you in danger. That's why I said those terrible things to you. You're not safe around me.

-It's okay, calm down. - April asked, sitting down with her on the rickety bed that presided over that room. - I was lucky. The Justicieras fighters rescued me.

- What? - her interlocutor exclaimed with astonishment. -

-Yes, they're very strong women. They beat the hell out of those demons. I saw the whole thing! - A now exultant April affirmed sententiously. - I could try to find them and tell them what's going on?

- No!" - Paige exclaimed, covering her mouth immediately, so as not to wake her little girl, finally, taking a deep breath to try to control herself, she muttered. - Don't get involved in this. They came here precisely because they know that you are in that university. And they have a suspicion that those women are there too. They wanted to use you to track them down. And I'm scared to death! You've seen that they're not human, April, they're evil beings with no mercy whatsoever! They will stop at nothing to carry out their plans.

- What plans? - Her astonished colleague asked her. –

- I don't know! And I don't care either. I just don't want to see you, or Marla, get hurt. - She sighed in anguish, glancing at her baby. -

-It's okay. - The shocked girl said. - I won't say anything. But what do I do if those devils or whatever they are find me?

-Play dumb. Tell them you don't know who they're talking about. And, above all. As soon as you can, get out of here. I don't know why, but they're very interested in some of your fellow students. Two girls and a couple of boys. They are their targets! They consider them a big threat to whatever it is they're up to. That's why the most sensible thing for you to do is to leave.

-But I still have a couple of courses to go before I finish my degree. - April objected. -

- Don't be stupid! - her sister exclaimed, grabbing her by the arms and sentencing her. - It's not about your career, it's about your life! -She sighed and told her in embarrassment and fear. - You'll see. You've seen how I have to earn mine. I know what you're thinking, but that doesn't matter now. The thing is that I've slept with some acolytes of a satanic sect. And the men tend to talk more than they should in bed. Some have told me that their master is coming soon. And that they need a stone, or I don't know what, to get it....

April opened her mouth in astonishment and frightened. The stone sounded familiar! She thought she remembered that those fighters had snatched one from the demons who had kidnapped her. Maybe that's why they wanted to get it back.

- The stone!  - she mused with visible surprise. -

            And that word made her mind remember by association. Those other small stones those women carried! Connie had one just like it! Now she remembered where she had seen it and why it had caught her eye when her companion came to chat with her.

- What were you saying? - her interlocutor who couldn't understand her, asked. -

-Nothing, you're right, I'll go away, I'll go far away. - April assured her sister without revealing those thoughts to her. - But you have to come with me.

-I can't. It would be easy for them to trace. - Paige replied in dismay. - And, besides, I must think of my child. For some strange reason, far from wanting to do her any harm, even those she-devils were kind to her. Maybe that protects me, too. They even gave her gifts and gave me money for my little Marla. - She commented in surprise now, speculating. - I've been involved in that cult for a couple of years now, and I admit I've slept with some of the higher-ups. Maybe they think she's someone's daughter.

Her conversation partner listened to her with a mixture of disbelief, regret and fear. Nevertheless, wishing to reassure her sister, she nodded.

-I will do as you say. I don't want to put you in danger. And don't worry. Besides those Justicieras, I have seen with my own eyes a really incredible boy.

She remembered a few nights ago. When she was on her way out of college. She saw Roy and Tom sneaking inside. They had probably just come in from a late night and were sneaking in to avoid the curfew.

-That Malden, he'll always be the same. He's always looking for a date outside when he's got several girls in here. - This time she said to herself disapprovingly. -

But what she saw, or, rather, could not follow with her eyes the next moment, puzzled her. She didn't realize it, but in a matter of milliseconds those two went from being perched on the wall to standing at the entrance to her college, which was at least a few dozen meters away. That was impossible for a normal person!

- One of them must be someone really superhuman! - She said to herself astonished. –

           And she guessed it was Roy, he had grabbed Tom and instantly the two of them were opening the door to their building. As she recounted this to her sister she sighed, almost looking relieved, to reply.

-Thank you, April. I really appreciate your support despite what I said and the way I did it. Forgive me! I've always loved you. You are the only one who has truly shown me love and understanding in our family. Although what I told you is unfortunately true. But I want you to know that it wasn't your fault. - She sobbed in consternation to sentence. - I only said it to get you away from me and to keep you safe.

That shocked the young listener. Was Paige telling her that her father was a common sexual abuser? She refused to believe it. She didn't have the time or the inclination to argue about it, though. She just gave a hug to the one she still considered her sister, watched her niece sleep and left after saying goodbye and promising to keep in touch. At least it was still daylight and she felt safer this time on the way back to campus.

-I'll have to find out who those Justices are and ask them for help, and also talk to Malden without those monsters finding out. - She thought. -

So focused was she on her musings that she failed to notice that, just a few feet above her, two individuals were smiling mischievously at each other. It was those two women she had seen earlier. The blonde declared amused.

-It was really easy. Humans are ridiculously predictable.

-And the stupid girl would have thought that in that miserable little room she was safe from detection.

-Yes, the same as when she was listening at the door! - her companion laughed. - How naïve! She's completely nuts! She spends all day talking to herself. I don't understand any of this. I felt like ripping out her information and her entrails.

-We have orders not to hurt her. So leave her alone. Now we have to go back. - Iama told her. - But we must also keep an eye on her and not let her out of our sight. And, above all, we must make sure that nothing bad happens to that baby.

-And I hate those cry things. All day long she's bawling her head off. Under other circumstances I would have smashed that baby's head against the wall by now. - Meriak hissed, admitting as much. - Although, on the other hand, I notice something very strange when I'm near that baby.

-Whatever it is, forget it. We can't touch that child. If the Wiseman found out, he wouldn't like it. And he could summon whoever you imagine to finish this in our place. – Iama reminded her colleague. -

Those words made Meriak turn pale and she immediately hurried to reply in a concerned tone.

-I didn't say I was going to do anything to her. Only that I would feel like it. Anyway, this is very strange, I've been coming to Earth for centuries and I've never seen anything like this. - Her companion appraised. – What strange two sisters! - She mocked with derision, putting a finger to her temple to ask amused. - Tell me, which of the two do you think is crazier, April or Paige? ha ha, ha, ha!

Her partner laughed too. The spectacle was shocking even for a she-devil.

-I don't know, nor do I care. - Iama finally answered, sentencing. - However, taking care of her is our mission. However insane that idiot may be, she may lead us to our objectives and the Yalmutud sphere.

Meriak agreed and the two disappeared. In the meantime, at the appointed time, the group of boys gathered at the exit of the campus. Roy was even more punctual, not wanting to be late at all. The girls were also already there. Cooan saw April arrive just then.

                However, since they had to leave now so as not to be late for the movie, she left it for a better time.

- Let's go now! - Roy told them enthusiastically. -

          So they did, after the usual combinations of buses and subways they arrived in the city and were able to buy the tickets without any problems. Everything was going smoothly. What they did not count on was the presence of individuals belonging to the sect who watched them under cover of anonymity, (not being demons, the girls' stones did not react).

- We must inform the Great Wiseman and the masters. - One of them said to his companion. - At last the right occasion has presented itself.

- I will take care of it. - The other responded. - You follow them; we will attack them at the exit. When we have reinforcements and there are fewer people around. It is not convenient that there are witnesses.

The spy left and arriving at the headquarters of the Sect, he informed the masters, one of them congratulated him.

- You have done very well, now go back to your post, we will send you those reinforcements as soon as possible.

That guy bowed and left, another master intervened.

- Let's send them disguised as gangsters, it will look like one of the many raids around the city.

- It is a good idea. - The third master agreed. - That way they won't suspect us. We will warn our group in charge of street riots.

- That way they won't connect us. The Grand Wiseman will be very pleased with our cunning. - The first master finished with triumphalism. -

-Yes, it will no longer be necessary to invoke those succubus, meddlers. – Another master added. -

And it was only a short time ago that their master had made those bitches appear. They were as greedy as they were dangerous. Those four would be eager to get them out of the way and take the glory for themselves. But they were not going to let them.

-That is why it is essential that we succeed, before the Great Wiseman withdraws his favour to us - The third master declared, to which his hooded companions nodded under their sackcloth. -

Elsewhere in the city. The movie was about to begin. Already in the cinema Roy stopped at the bar while his friends took their seats. When he appeared in the theatre, to the surprise of the rest, they saw him loaded with popcorn and soft drinks.

- Where are you going with all that? – Beruche smiled, looking at him in astonishment. -

- I've got something for everyone," - he replied enthusiastically, and then affirmed. -  Movies have to be seen with good food, and this one more than any other?

- How greedy you are! - Cooan laughed, asking between perplexed and amused. - Do you really think we can handle that much food?

- Do you wanna bet? – A jovial Roy answered. -

- Come on, sit down now. It's about to start. - Tom told him when the lights went out. -

The movie opened with a great soundtrack that foreshadowed something very interesting. During the credits, Roy commented quietly.

-They had to pay Brando an astronomical salary and part of the proceeds to appear for just a few minutes.

            Cooan and Bertie, however, looked at each other blankly, they had no idea who this Brando was.

-A very famous actor, a big star of that era. - Tom explained. -

-And of all times. I'm sure they'll even show his movies in the future. - Roy smiled. -

         Actually, they didn't remember any of them. Leaving that aside, they focused on the feature film. As soon as it started, that first image of the planet Krypton reminded both of them of Nemesis, a planet with aseptic buildings and a desolate surface for the most part. Although that world of the film was of an immaculate neatness, contrasting with the black surface of their home planet. Apparently they did coincide in some things, a civilization that gave the impression of being in decadence immersed in their own rivalries, with a Council of notables very similar to the one that existed in their own world. And also, of course, there were power-hungry traitors.

-Those are like the Republicans. - Cooan whispered to Bertie at one point. -

-In the end they were not the traitors, but the Wiseman. - Her sister reminded her in the same tone. -

-It's true. - Her companion admitted in a low voice. -

They followed the film with interest and as it progressed the couples were already evident. Roy and Bertie were together while Tom and Cooan were cuddling their heads close together. Roy was weird, at least from Bertie's point of view, he didn't make jokes or comments like he did in other movies. When that actor alluded to earlier by the boy, gave that farewell speech to the baby he was going to send to Earth, something in them made them remember their own parents.

- If only we could have said goodbye to both of them in a more loving way! - Cooan sighed, somewhat emotionally. -

Her sister took her by one hand, nodding, with that same wish. And in turn she looked at her companion. He was smiling at some scenes and Beruche thought she saw tears in his eyes when the protagonist, now an adult boy on Earth, was saying goodbye to his adoptive mother. She could understand him very well. As Cooan had remarked, the two did the same thing on their world and now she realized that it was also a final farewell.

- I wouldn't give to be able to hug them, again!  - Thought the excited Bertie, letting the occasional tear fall. -

Now it was Roy's turn to cheer her up with a faint smile, while Tom also admitted in a voice full of nostalgia.

-It's true, it reminds me a lot of home. Those landscapes of wheat fields stretching as far as the horizon.

-It's very beautiful. - Cooan whispered to him. - I can't wait to see it in person.

         And Tom nodded in return. He'd be happy to take her there. It certainly was a pretty picture. Bertie was enjoying it, although she wasn't losing sight of his partner either, who was smiling somewhat mischievously now at Superman's flight with Lois.

- Can you read my mind? - the reporter mused quietly as she was being led through the night by the superhero. -

                   Roy wished he could. Who knows what Bertie was thinking now, though he watched her out of the corner of his eye and seemed to be loving the movie, since she was even smiling slightly at the scene.

-Someday I'll do it. I'll take you that way. - He thought. –

         Moment of action as Superman fell under the kryptonite. Roy sighed in relief - at least he didn't have that vulnerable spot!

- Who knew? - he thought to himself reflectively. - Maybe I might even become stronger than him if I keep training.

But finally the hero pulled himself together and was able to chase down that nuclear missile. Everyone was hooked on that scene, sincerely wishing Superman could deflect it.

- It's about to hit him! - Cooan exclaimed, getting some stares from other onlookers. - I'm sorry! - she mused somewhat embarrassed. -

-He's not going that fast either. - Roy commented as a joke. -

- You're a smug! - Tom laughed, adding. -  You should have seen yourself!

- He'd only go out of his way to try to catch you if you were a hot dog! - Beruche laughed. -

They all laughed at that, although a few angry "chisss!" from the audience brought them to an embarrassed silence.

-Sorry. - The also red Bertie whispered. -

          But the movie continued, and with two missiles headed in opposite directions, not even Superman could stop them both. Despite managing to deflect one, which exploded harmlessly in space, the other hit, causing a major earthquake by rupturing the San Andreas fault. Despite multiplying to avoid catastrophes, the hero could not arrive in time to save Lois, who was covering a report and fell with her car into a large fracture, being buried by the earth. Those were anguished moments, even for the sisters. Cooan could not help but think then of all those who died prey to the Wiseman's lies and manipulation. To their misfortune, Sailor Moon did not arrive in time to save them. For his part, when the protagonist died, Roy felt very identified. Especially, when the Kryptonian let out a tremendous scream and flew straight to try to alter fate. Seeing the face of his father, Jor-El, which reminded him as an imperative in his mind.

- Forbidden to meddle in the history of human beings!

And then he thought, really surprised, as if suddenly realizing something.

- Will I, with my powers, be somehow altering things? Should I? Or am I here precisely for that reason?

However, when Jonathan Kent's voice was heard, with a softer tone, the boy became excited. Those words reminded him so much of what his own adoptive father had once said to him.

-I've come to a conclusion son...you're here to help people....

-Yes," he mused. - Now I get it, I understand it all. Somehow you always knew. Thank you, dad! Thank you, mom!...

           Trying to keep his eyes from watering at the memory, he looked at Bertie and she, realizing the feeling, smiled at him and shook his hand. And seeing the following scene he assured her in a tone that did not seem to be joking.

-I understand you. I'd turn the earth upside down for you, too, you little cube....

         Thank goodness that in the darkness of the theatre no one saw Bertie blushing. Tom looked at Cooan out of the corner of his eye and the girl blushed and looked away. Suddenly, the hero turned back in reverse, returning the planet to normal. Then he arrived with Lois, who was safe and sound, if a little angry, outside her car that had run out of gas.

-That wouldn't be right. - Beruche pointed out in a rather intellectual tone as she explained. - Superman would have to act again to prevent it all from happening over and over again...or else he would run into himself and suffer a time paradox.

-Well, it's just a movie, don't be so fussy. - Her sister whispered jovially. -

           Bertie nodded, although seeing the look on Roy's face it might mean more than just a movie to him. So the minutes passed and when the movie was over they left the theatre with the consequent comments.

- I liked it a lot. - Cooan said. - What a great guy, that Superman!

-That's true. – Her sister agreed to the surprise of the boys when she added in solidarity. - Besides, I understand him, coming from another world so different and integrating into this one is difficult.

- But just like you, he chose the path of defending the good. - Tom told them, making them both smile gratefully. -

- I wish we had a hero like him here, we could really use him. - Cooan sighed. -

- Hey, you've already got me! - Roy joked, (or so the girls thought, of course).

- Let´s go hero! hee, hee, hee! - Bertie teased him with a singsong half-smile of the kind she used to give when she was feeling happy. - We'd better get back.

Roy nodded with a wider smile, although his friends said nothing as they exchanged knowing glances, as if reaffirming a decision made earlier, and it was Tom who told them.

- If you don't mind, Connie and I will stay a little longer. It's a nice night.

- It's just that we'd like to walk around and have a drink. Are you up for it? - She suggested more out of commitment than anything else. -

Roy looked at his friend and couldn't suppress a nod of approval, shook his head and said...

- I think Bertie is right. I've had a really bad day. I haven't stopped for a second and I'd like to rest. I'll walk you back to the apartment.

Beruche nodded, although she didn't quite want to. Anyway, she and Roy had also had some very indicative looks during the movie and would talk during the ride. The girl also approved of her companion's gesture and wished her sister and Tom a wonderful evening just the two of them. For his part he was counting on something similar. So, the two couples parted. Roy and Bertie walked away hand in hand, that in itself was quite telling.

- What do you think those two are going to do? - Roy smiled once they were far enough away. -

-I don't know. - His interlocutor replied, with a mischievous smile in turn, to wish. - I hope they can have a really wonderful evening. They deserve it.

-The same as us, right? – The boy asked her with a more inciting tone. -

                Bertie just nodded slowly, hoping so. Meanwhile, the other couple smiled at each other, imagining that, perhaps, their friends would take a little longer to get to the girls' apartment. But Tom chose to stop thinking about his companions and focus on the gorgeous girl he finally had alone with him.

- Would you like a drink? - he offered cheerfully. - I'm very thirsty, I've eaten a lot of popcorn, I'll buy you a soda.

- Yes, thank you very much, - she smiled and agreed - I am also dry.

They settled down in a nearby comfortable bar with a terrace. There they ordered refreshments and started chatting. Tom couldn't help but mention the subject of his friends and commented.

- I'm happy for them, it was a long time coming.

- Well, I wasn't so sure. - Cooan rebutted amused by that assertion. - My sister doesn't get talked into going out by just anyone. In fact, so far none of them have ever succeeded. - She said to herself perplexed. -

- Roy's not just any guy. - Tom said, who finished off his words with a heartfelt compliment. - And Bertie certainly isn't an ordinary girl either. Since I've known my roommate I've never seen him behave like that with any woman.

- And what exactly does that mean? - Cooan asked, stirring his drink with the straw it carried. -

- No, don't misunderstand me. - He hastened to clarify, fearful of having given her the wrong impression. - Roy, despite what it may seem, has never tried to take advantage of the girls he's dated. I know, he's only gone as far as they've allowed him to go. Although most of them have been very permissive, you know what I mean. But with Bertie it's a different matter. It's funny. Sometimes I get the impression that they both had to know each other and what has happened to us with those demons has brought them very close together.

Her interlocutor nodded, she had noticed that too. She had known it from very early on, despite her sister's anger and tantrums because of that boy. But Bertie had always been an open book to her and the poor thing really hid her emotions badly despite believing otherwise. Still, not that Cooan thought her sister had been in love with Roy from day one. Their first meeting wasn't exactly romantic by any stretch of the imagination. But she sensed it, even if she didn't want to see it, from the moment they both returned from that practice with the children. And later she could see it in the hospital. She sighed, that was already in the past and now she had by her side this boy she had barely noticed until a few weeks ago. The truth was that at first glance Tom was overshadowed by the overwhelming way of being of his friend, but he possessed a calmness and an implicit gentleness that gradually crept into her heart. In his manner and actions, he was a true gentleman and reminded her of a cross between Mamoru and Prince Sapphire in physique, in his mannerisms and even in his kindness that seemed sincere, very different from that which, for example, Rubeus exhibited, full of falsehood. Yes, she saw it so clearly now that she was surprised how she could have been so blind in the past. Or rather in the future. As a song she had once heard said. She had been chained to a feeling and now that she was free she could appreciate the true virtues. She even hummed it a little to the boy's astonishment....

- Connie, are you all right? - He asked her, noting her absence, and she immediately dispelled those thoughts and answered. -

- Yes. I'm sorry, I was remembering the events that led us here and the truth is that I'm very happy to have met you both. I was thinking about that song you played me...the one about breaking free from the chains?

-It's a beautiful song. Full of inspiration. For people with enormous willpower. Like you. - He smiled. -

          Cooan looked at him with gratitude for those words. In truth both she and her sisters had faced many hardships since their purification. But she guessed that they were not the only ones who had to start over far from home. Without going any further, she didn't really know much about her interlocutor either, except for the little details he had been telling her about his life. Tom had a younger brother and was from Kansas. He came to Golden on a scholarship just like them, since he came from another, more modest university. The boy smiled; it was the same for him. He noticed Cooan (Connie, as he and Roy so affectionately called her.) At first glance, this cheerful, shy and sweet girl did not let him see that she was hiding so many secrets. He could never have imagined her with a life so different from the one he had seen. One thing was clear though, she was never free to decide about it and when she was able to do so she took the right path. Actually, Tom realized that this was common to Bertie and Roy as well. Only he had a clear existence with nothing to hide. Well, except for the feelings he had for the girl who studied him with such a cordial gaze. And maybe not even that anymore, since he was ready to confess how much he loved her.

-Woman in chains. - The boy then added. -

- What? - The young woman was surprised. -

-That song. You meant that one, didn't you? -Right? I like it very much too.

And to the girl's surprise and delight, he even sang a few verses...Cooan actually remembered hearing it with him. Once, listening to some music during one of the breaks in dance rehearsals, Tom played it for her and she was thrilled, especially when he accompanied the melody with his own voice, so warm and beautiful, since, she swore she remembered, it was another one of the ones their mother played for them as children.

***You better love lovin' and you better behave***

***You better love lovin' and you better behave***

***Woman in chains***

***Woman in chains***

***(Calls her man: the great white hope)***

***(Says she's fine, she'll always cope)***

***(Ooh, woman in chains)***

***(Woman in chains)***

***Well I feel***

***Lyin' and waitin' is a poor man's deal***

***(A poor man's deal)***

***And I feel***

***Hopelessly weighed down by your eyes of steel***

***(Your eyes of steel)***

***Well it's a world gone crazy***

***Keeps woman in chains***

***Whoa, whoa, whoa***

***Woman in chains***

***Woman in chains***

***(Trades her soul as skin and bones)***

***You better love lovin' and you better behave***

***(Sells the only thing she owns, hoo)***

***You better love lovin' and you better behave***

***Woman in chains***

***Woman in chains***

***Men of stone***

***Men of stone***

***(Hey no, no, no, no, no)***

***(Hoo)***

***Well I feel***

***Deep in your heart, there are wounds time can't heal***

***(That time can't heal)***

***And I feel***

***Somebody, somewhere is trying to breathe (somebody, somewhere is trying to breathe)***

***Well you know what I mean***

***It's a world gone crazy (it's a world gone crazy)***

***Keeps woman in chains (keeps woman in chains)***

***It's under my skin but out of my hands (but out of my hands)***

***I'll tear it apart but I won't understand***

***We will not accept the greatness of man***

***It's a world gone crazy keeps woman in chains***

***(World gone crazy, keeps woman in chains)***

***So free her (so free her)***

***So free her (so free her)***

***So free her (so free her)***

***So free her (so free her)***

***So free her (so free her)***

***The sun and the moon***

***So free her (so free her)***

***The wind and the rain***

***(So free her)***

***(So free her)***

***(So free her)***

***(So free her)***

***(So free her)***

***(So free her)***

***(So free her)***

***The sun and the moon***

***(So free her)***

***The wind and the rain***

***(So free her)***

**(Woman in Chains, tears for Fears. Credit to the author)**

         Tom remembered that too. The girl seemed to be very sensitive to that kind of songs. At that moment the boy got worried thinking that something was wrong with her... Connie was crying...

- Are you all right? - he wanted to know. -

-Yes, it's just that it's a beautiful song. It just made me cry, that's all. - She apologized. - I'm sorry.

She certainly didn't want to think about it, but she also remembered those dramatic moments when she felt betrayed, sunk and alone. When her former boss had broken her heart. Now she could understand her mother, and the sadness she must have felt at being so abandoned in her desolate county while her husband travelled to and fro or stayed at court. And Cooan remembered also that rumoured scandal about her father and the Duchess Tourmaline. Surely it would reach her poor mother's ears.

-We never wanted to believe it was true. However, when the rumour spread, Petz was very angry with daddy and Kalie was very sad, even if she wanted to pretend otherwise. - She sighed in regretful meditation. - Bertie and I were too young to find out...well, it doesn't matter now.

            She smiled, wiping away her tears with a paper napkin as her companion watched her. Tom felt that the poor girl had suffered a lot. That happened before he knew the whole truth about Connie and her sister. Now he could understand. He looked into her eyes. He loved to lose himself in the intense violet of her pupils, and he could not help whispering to her, seized by the feeling that seized him.

- You have the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen in my life. They are not meant to show sadness.

Cooan reddened her cheeks and could not suppress a smile of complacency. She could tell that Tom hadn't just dropped the usual compliment to score points. That boy had a pure soul and always spoke from the heart. If only she had met him at Nemesis, how different her life would have been!

- They are quite a frequent colour in my home world. - The girl clarified, happy to change the subject. –

- It's funny. - He added, continuing with the same thread of conversation. - But you hardly resemble each other in that respect. Each one of you has a different hair and eye colour.  It's very strange for sisters.

- It's true. - Cooan admitted, who revealed it to the boy's surprise. - But those things are very normal in Nemesis. Well, I guess they will be in Earth's future too. There, parents can even choose colours for their children's eyes and hair. Genetic engineering is very advanced.

Tom's mouth dropped open in surprise. Although he was not too religious for his own family, he shook his head and said.

- I don't understand. Why change people like that? It's like playing to be God.

- Does it seem wrong to you? - Cooan asked him, feeling uneasy about what she didn't care for at all. –

No, it's not that. - The boy clarified, not wishing to offend her now. - I mean I don't see the need. At least I don't think a son or daughter is a car or an upholstery to choose the colour it should be. Without going any further, what were your parents like?

- My father was dark brown and my mother had light brown hair, with some violet tones, like me. - She told him the questioned almost having to remember to remember. - But there is a cause, Tom, look. - She explained talking about her planet as if they were there and now. - There are very few inhabitants on Nemesis. And inbred marriages are not as rare as here. Without going any further, the origin of my own family, as far as I know, goes back to a forbidden love between relatives. - She confessed to her listener with some trepidation. -

Tom gave her an astonished look. It was certainly very much out of his politeness. Despite being much more open-minded than the rest of his family. However, there were certain things he could not easily assimilate. The girl, noticing that, wanted to qualify.

-It was something their families saw wrong. I don't know. My ancestors then had to flee so they could be together. I heard my grandmother Kim say something about that once. It was our great-grandmother Kurozuki who came in pursuit of her beloved. Also my mother must have told Petz who is the eldest, but neither she nor Kalie ever wanted to talk to us much about it. -She sighed and added. - To tell you the truth, I'd rather not know.

-Of course, I understand. Anyway, you're not to blame for that. - The young man replied. - It's a delicate subject, but if it's uncomfortable for you, you don't need to tell me anything else. - He added in a conciliatory tone. -

Cooan smiled, she felt that Tom was a good boy who did not prejudge her. Certainly if he had accepted her own past, this would be all the more reason to do so. Still, she wanted to take the heat off the matter by adding.

-It's not that we were not married between siblings, but it is common between cousins and, as you know, this can lead to diseases or genetic defects. Besides, Nemesis had a strange source of energy. They called it dark energy, which produced serious health effects. We were forced to use it to give light and heat to our planet in order to survive, but at the same time it was very harmful. Our first ancestors paid a high price, they died very young. And yet, since ancient times, we began to change the genetic code to make us more resistant to it and to avoid problems derived from inbreeding.

-I see. - The boy mused, really amazed by what he was hearing. - That's incredible! So, you had to suffer a lot there. - He conjectured really pitying her and her sisters. -

- No, Tom. - The young woman smiled at him now to reply with more joviality. - It was, on the contrary, you see. Life on my world, at least when I was born, was already very comfortable and easy. Much more so than on Earth today, but the pioneers did have a hard time. At least until the danger of dark energy could be averted. Our scientists and technicians made great efforts to control it and isolate the population from it. Paradoxically, I think that the Wiseman who manipulated us also had something to do with it....

- It is something so unthinkable to me. - He replied, although he had to admit that on Earth many of these things were already being successfully experimented with, and who knows if, when the need arose and with a much more advanced technology than the current one, they could resort to it. - Not that I intend to judge, far from it. - He added. - I just find it really incredible. I just hope you and your sisters are in good health. - He fretted. - That it hasn't left any after-effects.

Cooan smiled at him relieved and even amused to add.

- Do not be afraid. When Sailor Moon purified us she washed away any trace of that energy we might still have. It was like cleansing us completely. What's more. It even seems to me that we've changed somewhat in terms of our genetics. Since we've been here it's been funny. Kalie and I don't stand out so much in our hair tones. However, my sisters Beruche and Petz have hair colours that do stand out. At first Bertie had bluer hair, but it's been getting lighter and lighter, turning white and even a bit blonde.

          And Petz is getting darker and darker, it's almost more black than dark green, which was its original colour. Although that is what worries us the least. Imagine that when we arrived on this planet we thought that our colours were not Earth colours and that this would mark us out, but we have seen boys and girls with even weirder colours, and they even have their hair painted with various colours!

- Yes. Believe me, in New York any one of your family would go unnoticed in that and almost anything else! – The boy laughed making her also let out a clean laugh and when she could he added more seriously. - I guess you'll miss your parents.

- Not as much as I should. - Cooan answered him now adopting a more serious and nostalgic tone when she added. - Our house was very big. It was surrounded by a lake and gardens. All under a huge dome. We lived in the Ayakashi region. That's where our real surnames come from. - She told them. -

-But I think that's Japanese. I don't know what it means, though. - A perplexed Tom responded-

-It means something like a sea ghost. One that appropriates the souls of humans. But our county was so named because it had an area of geothermal activity that allowed what little water there was to be in a liquid or vapour state. That created a ghostly atmosphere. Of permanent haze over the water. My paternal great-grandparents colonized it and gave it that name remembering the old legends of Japan. - She told him. -

The boy listened in amazement. More when she continued.

-When my parents married, they went to live there, and went to great lengths to plant trees, drain the swamp in which those mists were rising, and build a beautiful home. When we were born, it was much nicer. - The girl smiled now, evoking it with a mixture of tenderness and sadness in her tone. - A lake with flowers and trees around it.

-I understand very well. My grandparents and my parents also worked very hard to make their land bear fruit and prosper. - He commented. -

-We hardly ever saw my father. He travelled all the time. - Cooan told him. - Of course, he always brought us gifts and told us stories of the capital. Then he took us with him to court, and later we returned with him to enter the service of King Coraion and his wife, Queen Amethyst. Dad still saw us with some regularity, but one day he disappeared. I remember him better, but I have more beautiful memories of my mother. She was a good woman and loved us very much. I adored her because she spoiled me a lot. When she didn't notice, or so I thought, she would dress me up in her clothes to play. - She smiled wistfully as she continued in a quiet voice. - She told us many things about Earth. For us, this planet was a kind of myth. We only knew that our ancestors came from it. But we loved to listen to our mother. She would gather us all around her and I, being the youngest, she would sometimes take me in her arms. Then she would tell us about the majestic forests, the huge oceans and the high mountains she had. - She sighed in a dreamy way. -

Her interlocutor could not stop listening to her and observing that expression of candour and joy. Tom was totally smitten with this young woman. And perhaps even a little sympathetic to her. Connie spoke of it all with devotion. He greatly admired the work of Mother Nature, but he would never have suspected how fortunate he was to live on the planet that his companion described as practically magical.

-It is clear that your mother loved you very much. - He said, visibly impressed. -

- Unfortunately. - Cooan recalled with regret like the time he had told Rei. - Then she changed, she became much stricter, especially with my older sisters. She wanted to educate us well so that we would succeed at court. I was very young and I don't remember her features well. Being the youngest is natural and the day we said goodbye to travel to the capital....

- You would suffer a lot. - Tom understood, taking charge of that. -It's normal. So young, to be taken away from your mother like that, it has to affect anyone.

- Don't you believe it. - His interlocutor denied him and then went on to explain. - At the time, I wasn't really aware of what was going on. Besides, we all thought that living in the Court of Nemesis would be wonderful, apart from the fact that, of course, we would see our mother often, taking it for granted that she would come to visit us. But then we grew up and although we would occasionally hear from her or vice versa, we had almost no contact anymore. And all that got worse when that Wiseman began to bombard us with dark energy. From that moment on, we forgot our good memories and only ambition, selfishness and competitiveness nestled in us...

At this point, her companion remained silent with her hands clasped, resting her chin on them. She seemed to be emotional and to feel guilty evoking it, almost giving the impression that she was about to cry. Tom judged it prudent and polite not to burden her with these memories. All that belonged to the past, or to the future, what a mess! He simply gave the girl an affectionate glance and she added spontaneously, as she smiled again.

- I remember that when I said goodbye to my mother, when I was very little, I promised her that if I ever had a daughter, I would name her after her.

- And what was your mother's name? -. It was the inevitable question from him. -

- Idina, from the Kurozuki family. It was the name our maternal ancestors adopted when they arrived in Nemesis. - Cooan answered, almost palpitating the name with devotion. - In the end, I don't know what happened to her. I think she ended up deranged. But I'm not sure. My poor mother, she was so lonely! - She was visibly moved, so much so that some tears came to her eyes. - I'm sorry...when I think of her...I can't help it. -She was able to say, certainly in sorrow, with her voice cracking. –

Tom looked at her with regret and not without compassion. Poor girl! Her life was clearly much harder and more difficult than he had ever imagined. Still, she was able to overcome all that and choose to do good. What was really important was that now he was there, by her side. Suddenly he felt like the luckiest guy in the world for that and said in a loving and kind tone.

- Idina, huh? That's a very pretty name. I like it very much myself. Your mother must have been like you, a great woman. And what happened to your father? If I may ask. You said something about him disappearing. Right?

-That was the official version. -The young woman responded. - He loved us, at least he was always very affectionate with us. But he was too interested in moving up in the Court. As far as I know, he did several missions for King Coraíon, Prince Diamond's father. He disappeared on one of them. They even blamed it on the neo Crystal Tokyo forces. We never saw him again. Then we were sent back to Earth, to the past. - She sighed to finish. - The rest you know...

-I thank God they did it. I'm very sorry for what happened to you, but I'm happy that because of it, you're here. I could not have met you otherwise. - He replied frankly. - Like that other song we listened to together. Remember? - he crooned. - Turn a different corner and we wouldn't have met....

His interlocutor smiled gratefully at those words, that song was also very beautiful. And Tom did not deprive himself of singing it a cappella and almost in whispers, and yet, in spite of everything, making really contrasting and pure tones.

I'd say love was a magical flame

I'd say love would keep us from pain

Had I been there

Had I been there

I would promise you all of my life

But to lose you would cut like a knife

So I don't dare

No, I don't dare

'Cause I've never come close in all of these years

You are the only one to stop my tears

And I'm so scared

I'm so scared

              The girl was carried away by that wonderful tune, remembering the music when he played it for her. That song made her heart beat faster, filling her with a pleasant feeling of warmth and well-being. It was like feeling surrounded by protection and love. And, moreover, it gave the feeling that the following verses were specially written for her.

Take me back in time maybe I can forget

Turn a different corner and we never would have met

Would you care

I don't understand it, for you it's a breeze

Little by little you've brought me to my knees

Don't you care

No, I've never come close in all of these years

You are the only one to stop my tears

I'm so scared of this love

And if all that there is, is this fear of being used

I should go back to being lonely and confused

If I could, I would, I swear

Oh, I swear

(A different corner. George Michael, credit to the author)

And when the boy concluded, to the astonishment of both of them, quite a group of people watching in rapt attention applauded, praising the boy and his great singing skills. Tom of course blushed, and smiled shyly. So did she, who was able to wipe away those tears and once those onlookers had left them to their own devices again, she wanted to change the subject.

-Well, what about you? – the girl asked with obvious interest, questioning him with her eyes. -

- Me? - His interlocutor pointed to himself with a finger on his chest. -

-You haven't told me much about yourself. - Cooan told him. -

-There's not much to tell. My parents live on a farm in Kansas, near Manhattan. - He reminded her. - My brother Daniel is still in high school and is a computer geek.

- But isn't Manhattan here in New York? - The young woman, who thought it was, was surprised. -

-No, there's another one in my home state, between the Kansas River and Big Blue, near a lake. - He smiled at his conversation partner who commented with amusement. - Roy always used to play that joke on me. He'd say, hey redneck, you can't say you haven't been here before, you've been to Manhattan before me!

Cooan laughed, she could just imagine that crazy buddy of Tom saying something like that. She was really enjoying herself. Certainly this new life had many attractions and she felt more and more comfortable. It was already a change to become a normal human, and now, in addition, to have changed so much from Japanese to American culture. That meant another effort for her and her sister to adapt. But it had been worth it. It seemed to her as if they had been living there for an eternity, in the atmosphere of the Golden. If only those damned demons would disappear forever! They were the only thing that could dampen her happiness. Especially now that she had finally connected with Tom.

-One of these days we should go visit my family in Kansas. I'll invite all of you, you, Roy and Bertie, I'm sure you'll like it! You'll get to see the World Treasures Museum, the Old Cowtown Museum and Dodge City, the lawless city," he commented animatedly, adding, "Your mother was right about Earth. If you could only see the scenery at my home! The sky is blue and stretches out covering an expanse of wheat and barley as far as the eye can see, just like in Sting's song! - He exclaimed, making her smile once again. - The breeze is soft and cool, and everything is very peaceful....

           And as he described this, their hands intertwined on the table. The girl nodded contentedly, listening to him with the same rapt attention that, as a child, she had when listening to her mother's stories. Then two faint beeps sounded and she looked at her watch, realizing that, with the conversation, they were very late. Tom noticed this too and they both dropped their hands and rose like springs ready to return.

- I had a great time and didn't even notice the time. - He hurriedly apologized. -

- It's been the same for me. - Cooan smiled and proposed. - We have to repeat it and next time it will be you who will tell me more about your childhood and we will be able to make that visit more concrete. If you really want to invite us. -He laughed humorously. -

- I would be delighted to do so. - He said with total sincerity. -

And almost without realizing it, they were holding hands as they walked through practically deserted streets. The boy couldn't help noticing a tingling sensation that ran through his stomach every time they crossed each other's eyes and Cooan was not indifferent to that sensation. Stopping both of them at the stop of an "Owl bus", which was passing near the girls' apartment, they looked at each other again, but not fleetingly and before either could think about what was happening Tom slowly approached her and kissed her on the lips gently. The girl felt her heart skip a beat, though she certainly couldn't be happier. She was about to smile at her companion and return the kiss when the spell was broken. An awkward, husky voice mockingly whispered....

- How beautiful love is!

They both turned around to discover a group of undesirable looking individuals. They had apparently emerged from a dark alley near the bus stop and were watching them with malicious smiles. Instinctively Tom stepped between Cooan and that bunch of what looked like hooligans. He cursed his bad luck to run into such a group, especially when he was with her, but he tried to remain calm without showing any fear and just said in a calm tone.

- We're just waiting for the bus; it'll be here soon.

-Oh, really? - Another one responded, wearing a headscarf. - Well, you won't mind if we keep you company.

- That's right," - Another of them agreed, wearing a worn leather jacket and keeping one of his hands suspiciously hidden in a pocket. - But there's a small problem. You're in our territory.

- What do you mean? - The young woman was able to ask with concern and bewilderment reflected in her countenance. -

- I mean, my dear, that you have to pay a fee and that means that you have to give us everything you have on you. - The guy in the windbreaker replied and, as Tom feared, he pulled out a knife, and said. - "Come on, you two lovebirds!

His cronies were no less, wielding sticks and baseball bats that they had pulled out of practically nowhere.

- All right," - The boy answered, pulling Cooan further away from the assailants. - Don't be nervous. Here you go. - He asked them throwing his wallet towards them. -

- We're very calm, man, we do it every day, we've mastered it! - The one with the handkerchief mocked, making his cronies laugh. -

- All right, now the girl! - another robber urged him with an imperious voice. -

The girl obeyed, throwing her purse to the ground, and she wished she could transform herself, she would teach those guys a good lesson, but it wasn't worth it. Tom could get hurt and she could be discovered.

- Now leave us alone, please. - The girl asked them in a hurried tone of barely maintained calm. -

- Not so fast - Another one of them said with a lascivious smile. - Your boyfriend can leave if he wants to, but you are very pretty, we could have a great time with you.

- Don't you dare touch her! - An already agitated Tom demanded. -

         Now, despite his obvious disadvantage, he couldn't suppress a more aggressive attitude. It was one thing to let himself be robbed, but he certainly wasn't going to let those pigs even come close to touching Connie.

- Are you going to stop us?" - The one with the jacket laughed, handling the knife with obvious ease as he threatened. - Now you'll see, brave man!...

The assailants looked at each other with complicity and two of them went for Tom, but he was waiting for them in guard position and knocked them both out with karate kicks. Oblivious to this in the shadows of the alley a pair of reddish eyes witnessed the fight. It was a demon summoned by the masters to help their henchmen. He was accompanied by two members of the sect.

- You humans are useless. - He said with contempt - in the end I will have to intervene myself.

- It was a coincidence. - One of the cultists answered him, hidden behind the same shadows that prevented him from being seen completely. - Those guys are real robbers. They have nothing to do with us.

- And our enemies are very skilled. They will be able to take them out without difficulty. - The other one who accompanied him justified himself. - We just have to wait a little while.

At that instant, that infernal being, who was not noted for his patience, ignored that advice and decided to go ahead. Immediately the stone around Cooan's neck flickered.

- Oh, my God! - she said to herself, becoming more and more frightened as she realized that. - There's a demon around here somewhere.

To confirm her fears, from a nearby dark alleyway emerged a tall, slender figure, over six feet tall, greenish in the pale light of the street lamps, with horns on its head and hoofed feet. He wore armour with a trident inscribed on the breastplate. Tom in the meantime had knocked out all the assailants who, just as they were recovering, saw this unnatural creature appear behind them.

- What the hell is that? - The one with the slayer shouted, who was covering his nose, which was bleeding profusely after receiving a kick from his adversary. - What scary movie is this from?

- I'm not staying here to check it out, man. - The one with the handkerchief responded who, as soon as he could, ran away on his legs. - Let's get out of here!

The others followed him because, between the beating they had received and the shock of seeing such a monster, they decided that they were not there any longer. Tom did not take long to notice his new enemy and confronted him in guard position challenging him.

- Do you also want to receive, you damned demon?

- My name is Dawon, from the third infernal circle. - He introduced himself and praised his target ironically. - You are a very strong and skilled human, I congratulate you, you have put those idiots out of combat with great ease. But unfortunately for you, I am not like that rabble, you are no match for me. - And having said that, he called out to those who were with him. - You, go and report, I'll take care of this.

The cultists nodded and went off down the alley.

- We'll see about that! - His interlocutor said to him, ready for a fight. - You were supposed to be the ones behind all this. But I'm not going to let you bother us anymore.

- Go ahead, let's see what you can do against me. – That being mocked him. -

- Go away, Connie! - the boy asked resolutely. - I'll stall him.

- But Tom, he's a demon, you just can't handle him! - She replied frightened, desperately searching through her clothes for some anti-spirit paper, but without finding it. -

- Go away, run! - he insisted. -

         In the meantime, Dawon approached him slowly. The boy took the initiative by throwing two punches and a kick. The demon took the blows, but did not flinch, declaring with derision.

- You've hurt me a little, congratulations, you're an unusual human. But it won't do you any good. - He sentenced attacking in turn to throw blows that his rushed opponent dodged as best he could. -

Cooan, on the other hand, was hiding in a corner and hesitated, she didn't know whether to become a Justiciera or not.

- If I turn now I will reveal my identity, but if I don't, Tom may be badly hurt, I have to do it! - She convinced herself by moving away a little so as not to be seen. -

       Although at that moment Dawon hit his enemy knocking him down. Cooan couldn't stop the demon from lifting his friend up and sadistically breaking his back. The boy shrieked in pain and was rendered semi-conscious. However, he could still hear her screaming.

- Pure Heart of Fire, give me the power!

Then, with his vision blurred by pain, the badly wounded young man saw Connie or someone who looked like her approaching, then he was knocked senseless.

- Tom! - Please answer me! - She shouted at him, trying to revive him without success. -

- So you're one of those pesky Justicieras. - The demon laughed and contemplated the scene delighted to sentence. - It will be a pleasure to eliminate you.

- We'll see about that! - Cooan replied, shaken with fury, so much so that she launched a powerful lightning bolt against the creature without difficulty. - You're going to pay for this, monster!

However, her opponent moved away with lightning fast movements to the girl's surprise.

- You are very slow, stupid human! - the demon laughed counterattacking with another lightning bolt that the Justiciera dodged with difficulty, rolling on the ground and getting up as fast as she could while her rival asserted. - You are no match for me either.

- You think you scare me with that bravado? Damn you, I won't forgive you! - She shouted at him, materializing her bow and firing a volley of arrows. -

            The demon moved away again with agility, but he relied too much on his dexterity and did not notice a fallen bat with which he stumbled and fell backwards. The wall held him up, but Cooan took the opportunity to take aim, draw her bow and fire again.  This time she hit her enemy in the chest and with a shriek of pain Dawon exploded. She threw to the ground to cover herself and her unarmed companion from the blast. Now she fully understood what Rei did, in the last fight between them, when she protected Yuuichirou with her own body from the Dark Fire that the then evil Kermesite threw at him.

-I love you and I won't let you suffer anymore. - She thought as she shielded the boy. - I would give my life for you!

         And once the effects of the detonation had passed, which fortunately were not as serious as she thought, she tried to revive him again, more and more frightened by his state.

- Please wake up, Tom. - Finally she managed to revive him and he opened his eyes, he was dazed with pain while she asked him full of anxiety. - How are you?

- .... who are you? - The badly wounded boy wanted to know, mumbling the words in a rather precarious state of consciousness, and yet full of concern for his companion, when he asked, "Where is Connie? Where is Connie? What has happened to Connie?

In spite of her serious condition he only cared about her. That was the true love, the one that Rei showed for Yuuichirou that time and that Cooan could not understand then! Now, the excited Justiciera answered him in the gloom of the alley and still wearing her mask.

- Calm down. The girl is fine, you saved her. Don't worry, we've taken care of her, I'm going to ask for help, please hold on! - The frightened girl asked him, barely holding back her tears. - They'll be right with you...

Fortunately, the bus arrived then and she, making herself known as Justiciera, managed to get the astonished driver to call an ambulance. The girl waited with Tom until they arrived, he lost consciousness again, which Cooan took the opportunity to run out of there while the nurses took care of him. A few streets away she returned to her normal identity and quickly returned asking for him. She explained that they had been mugged and that she fled for help. The nurses allowed her to go with the wounded man to the hospital. On arrival, barely suppressing her nerves and desolation, she phoned Roy's room without delay.

- Oh, Lord, let them be there! - she sobbed as she waited for an answer. -

Oblivious to all that had happened, Roy and Bertie had been chatting. As expected they did not go to the girls' apartment. He offered her his room at the university and she readily accepted. Even though it was obviously forbidden. But at that point such minutiae did not bother them. Nothing and no one disturbed them and they were able to enter without any problems. Once there, they took a roll call of the latest events leading up to that very night. The girl smiled at him as she commented.

- You love that movie, huh?

- It brings back a lot of memories. - He acknowledged. - My father took me to the premiere when I was very little. And many times I think there are a lot of coincidences with my own life. I was also adopted and my parents died....

Beruche hugged him affectionately and he pressed against her, almost without realizing it they pressed their lips together in a kiss, caressing each other.

- I still remember the first time I saw you. - Bertie smiled. - 'Rather, that I didn't see you, darn it!

- It was the best stumble I ever had in my life. - He laughingly admitted, caressing her cheek gently. -

- Well, if I told you what I thought of you then, I'd have frozen you if I could have! - She assured him with another knowing smile. -

- Freeze me? - Roy asked, adding amused. - I honestly don't know if you would have, but now you can turn me on just by getting close to me.

And to underline those words he gave her a long kiss that she responded by hugging him, they both fell on the bunk bed, with the boy on top of her. Roy caressed the girl's neck giving her light kisses that drew from her some light moans. Hesitant to continue any further, he felt his partner unbutton her blouse. He wasn't sure he wanted to continue, something inside him didn't want everything to happen like that, so fast. Especially not on that cot that was the silent witness of so many nights of passion, with different girls. But he didn't want Bertie to be one of many. That had never happened to him before. He surprised himself and stopped. Beruche was surprised, but just then the phone rang. It was odd that they had called that extension, especially at that hour. Roy reached out his arm and answered reluctant…

- Hello? Who is it? Oh, hello Connie! Where are you? - He smiled, but that expression quickly faded and his expression changed from surprise to anguish. - What are you talking about? - It can't be! Please calm down, we'll be right there!...

- What's the matter, Roy? - Beruche asked him, who had attended the conversation with a bewildered and increasingly anxious face, putting on her blouse. -

He looked at her dismayed and above all very worried to answer in a quiet voice and with his face unhinged.

- Your sister is in the hospital, she is fine, but she called to say that Tom is in the hospital. It is very serious, they have been attacked by robbers and a demon....

- Oh my God! - Bertie exclaimed, covering her mouth. - Come on, let's go quickly!

The two of them ran there without wasting any time. They were holding hands with identical worried looks on their faces. Coincidentally, two other boys happened to be there at that time. It was Melanie and Malcolm, who were returning from a getaway. They saw the other couple passing by like an exhalation, so fast they were going so fast that they didn't even give the impression of seeing them.

-It looks like they were being chased. - A perplexed Roberts comented. -

-Yes, although no one is to be seen here. - Melanie replied. -

-Must be one of those Malden jokes. - Her partner smiled, shaking his head. -

-I don't think so; I could have sworn the look on their faces was one of fear. - His interlocutor rebutted. -

-Well, we'll ask them tomorrow. - Aa more than unconcerned Roberts said, taking the girl in his arms. -

-Hey," - she exclaimed, halfway between surprise and amusement. - "it's so late!

-Well, let's go to your room. - Malcolm suggested mischievously, with reason. - Surely Malden had taken Bertie there.

Melanie's expression became more serious, though. Her boyfriend, judging that he had blundered, apologized.

-I'm sorry, I shouldn't have mentioned them....

-No, it's not that. - She reassured him, adding. - It's just that now is not a good time. April will probably be there.

-Well, my roommate had a plan too. - He sighed in a hurry. - Although, if your friend is with some flirt...

-I don't know. She's just been really down lately and I wouldn't want to have to ask her to leave the room. - Melanie sighed, looking at him with a sad expression. -

-That's all right. - The boy conceded with resignation. - We'll have time.

And he accompanied Melanie to the door of the girl's room, wishing her good night, then he left towards the gymnasium, which was the place where those who gave their room to their classmates, used to spend the night.

- What can we do! - He said to himself sportively. -

Melanie entered cautiously to discover her sleeping companion.

-At least she's well and resting. - She thought relieved, ready to do the same. -

As stealthily as she could, she passed into the bathroom. She was surprised to see it. April had a mess in there, make-up, hair dye, all over the floor, some towels stained black....

-This girl had never been so careless. Well, maybe she had her own celebration. - Conjectured the captain of the cheerleaders. –

         She also saw that little pink box where her friend kept her sleeping pills, but it was empty.

-I think she could have gone in with Malcolm and had a night of passion that April wouldn't have known about! - Melanie smiled to herself, sighing to cheer herself up. - Anyway, I'm going to clean up and tidy all this up a bit. Hopefully tomorrow I can talk to Bertie and Roy to see what happened to them....

            In the meantime, the guys mentioned by the head cheerleader left through a secluded area of the campus, once again flouting the curfew. This time he didn't do anything unusual to pull it off. He had no desire to be discovered. Luckily, being a weekend, there was much less surveillance. So, once on the street, they took a cab that immediately brought them to the hospital's door. As soon as they entered the waiting room, Cooan rushed to her sister whom she hugged crying without being able to articulate a word. Roy waited, mastering his impatience and fear, for the poor girl to calm down at least a little and asked her again.

- How did it happen? When?

- We were having a drink in a bar and on the way out we were attacked by a group of hooligans. Tom fought them off but then a demon appeared, fought him and left him badly wounded. And I... I didn't do anything! - She sobbed in despair. -

- Calm down, - Roy asked her, astonished and more and more enraged. Nevertheless, he pulled himself together enough to address some sympathetic words of encouragement to the girl. - What could you have done? It wasn't your fault, Connie. Sit down and try to calm down. Bertie, please stay with her. I'm going to check on Tom.

          Beruche nodded making her sister take a seat with her head buried under her arms. Roy headed for the reception desk to ask if he could visit his friend. Cooan then took the opportunity to tell Bertie the whole truth.

-It was my fault, my God," - she moaned guiltily. - I hesitated to transform, he was trying to protect me, thinking I was helpless. He faced that demon all by himself, while I hid like a coward to change without him seeing me.

-Calm down, you transformed and killed that monster. You did what you had to do. - Her afflicted sister tried to console her. -

- What if something bad happens to him? All because I didn't reveal who I am. I should have trusted him; I know he loves me. I was late because I was stupid! - Cooan censured herself again and again, overwhelmed by guilt. -

-It'll all work out, you'll see, stop torturing yourself. Tom will come out of it. - Beruche affirmed, wishing in the bottom of her heart that it would be so. -

Roy meanwhile got permission to see his friend, entered the room and to his relief found him sedated and asleep. He did not appear to be seriously ill. He returned to tell the girls. The doctor on duty then went up to them and asked them with the utmost courtesy.

- Are you relatives of the patient in 214?

- We are friends of his from the university, he is not from here and has no one else nearby. I'll be able to contact his parents, but they live in Kansas. It will take them a while to get here. I'm his roommate in the dorm and I know his information, I can get started on his health insurance. - Roy replied, otherwise the doctor would not be able to inform them of anything. -

The doctor nodded sympathetically and the boy asked without being able to avoid his concern...

- How is he, doctor?

The doctor consulted his notebook to make a statement.

- Let's see, the patient Thomas Alan Rodney. Yes, his life is not in danger, he hasn't lost too much blood either.

- Thank God! - smiled Beruche still in tears. - You see, Cooan, everything is going to be all right. - She assured her sister, who was now smiling a pale smile of relief. -

- I'm afraid that's not all, Miss - the doctor replied with a dismayed look on his face. - Unfortunately...

- What do you mean by that, doctor? - Roy asked him, very worried. -

- He has a very serious fracture at the level of the fifth vertebra. - That was the answer his interlocutor gave him in a quiet voice. -

- But it will heal, won't it? What will it be, a few weeks, maybe months? - His interlocutor urged him. -

But the doctor resignedly shook his head in regretful refutation.

- I'm very sorry, but I'm afraid your friend will be paralyzed from the waist down. I am so sorry. - And without waiting for a response from the shocked boys, he walked away down the corridor. -

Cooan, who had risen in hope at the earlier news, collapsed on the couch and burst into tears again.

- No, no, my God! - she cried out in despair. -

       Beruche hugged her, trying unsuccessfully to console her and unable to avoid crying with her.

- No, nooo! - Roy howled, unloading a punch on a marble table in front of them, causing it to crack. He barely had to restrain himself from transforming into a Golden Warrior on the spot, his voice was cut off by anger and rage. - It can't be..., they must have made a mistake... Damn it!... Damn you, I swear I'll destroy you all, you'll pay for it, even if my life is at stake!

- Roy, please! - A frightened Beruche begged him, trying to control her tears without success. - Don't do anything crazy, they could do the same to you or worse. What would we gain from that?...

- Avenge him! - he replied, clenching his fists and inflamed with rage. -

- No!" - Bertie sobbed, shaking her head. - I'm hurting for him too, but returning hatred for hatred's sake won't do him any good. On the contrary. Tom is going to need all the love we can give him. Nothing more can be done. Let the Golden Warrior and the Justicieras take care of the rest. And calm down, do it for him and for us. Promise me! - She asked him with a pleading tone full of sadness. -

- I will, I will, I'll take care of it. - Roy mumbled almost to himself, then added with a precarious calmness. -You're right, I'm so sorry. I promise, I will leave this to the Golden Warrior. - He hugged the two girls and sighed trying to alleviate his enormous tension to say with palpable anguish. - We'll have to tell her parents right away....

- It was my fault, my fault! - Cooan sobbed saying over and over again. - Tom, please forgive me!

Roy looked at her very saddened, poor girl, why was she torturing herself like that? He didn't understand. She couldn't have done anything. Finally, he let her be and took it upon to hug her while Beruche called her sisters to take her home. Petz and Karaberasu showed up there immediately, though they failed to move Cooan from the waiting room. Roy, for his part, plucking up his courage, warned his friend's parents, trying to contain his anger until a more propitious occasion for the good of all. Meanwhile in Tokyo, Usagi woke up with a start. That horrible nightmare had brought tears to her eyes.

- Oh, my God! - she sobbed. –

            She tried to go back to sleep in vain. In spite of all her efforts, she was unable to do so. She dreaded the next day, when she would have to face it with her friends.

**START**