Ok, so....who's ready for a mall trip? ;)

Jordan: I could use some new guitar strings.

Katie: I want to find "Star Wars" stuff! :D

Mick: I'd like to add to my too-small CD collection!

Shelly: I wanna check out the guys. ;)

Elizabeth: I want to help Shelly check out the guys. ;)

Maryann: I want to show Micky all the My Little Ponies! :D

*Mick groans.* :P

(We begin with Alex storming down the hall towards one of the rooms, followed by some of the robot guards.)

Robot Guard 1: We searched the entire warehouse, sir, but we found neither anyone who sounds like "Rio" or the recordings of his program.

Alex: Dammit! How does he DO it? :P X-(

Robot Guard 2: If I may suggest, sir, perhaps you could ask some of the captives from the raid that question.

Alex: *nods* Yes, maybe I could get one of them to answer a few questions.

Robot Guard 1: The red-headed woman you asked to be put in your personal torture chambers may be ready for questioning.

Alex: She's one of the higher-ups. She’ll know what I'm looking for. It's just a matter of getting her to speak. ;)

Robot Guard 2: You could give her the drugs you were working on, or play with her mind or her body.

Alex: *taps his chin* I'd like to try the drugs. I think I will.

(They stop at a wide double-door. Alex taps on the key bad and they slide open.)

Robot Guard 1: Will you be needing our help, sir?

Alex: No, *grins* Shelia will be here in a bit. I can handle things until she gets here. ;)

Robot Guard 1: Very good, sir. Carry on. (They exit, letting Alex walk into the chambers alone.)

(Alex smirks as enters the reletively large room, which is dark except for the dim lights on several computer consoles and one large, extremely bright light that shines over a group of female robots. Duct tape, elecric razors of various sizes, a large chemistry set, and needles and cups of strange, colorful fluids line a long steel table. A pile of familiar clothes lay in one corner. When the female robots move, they reveal Suzanna, now in her stockings and matching lace underwear and bra, her feet bare. One female robot is shaving off her long, thick red hair. Her mouth is so heavily taped, she can't make a sound.)

Female Robot: (As she finishes, brushing the hair away and putting the razor on the table) There. Now you're ready for Mr. Alex to attend to you. (Hands Alex her purse and jewelry) Here's all of her valuables, Mr. Alex.

Alex: Thank you. *opens the purse and eyes the contents; frowns slightly, then puts the items aside*

(Suzanna is firmly strapped to a heavy, stiff chair in a reclining posistion. She struggles as best she can, but the straps are very tight.)

Alex: My dear, there's little sense in struggling. You won't be leaving any time soon.

(Suzanna glares at him and shakes her head.)

Female Robot: What should we do with her clothing?

Alex: Whatever you would like to do with it. Keep it, throw it out, burn it. It's not of any worry to me at this time.

Female Robot: Very well, Mr. Alex. We will leave you to attend to your prisoner. (Looks at her) Don't hurt this one too badly, Mr. Alex. She is very pretty for a human.

*Alex nods, smirking slightly.*

(The robots gather the clothes and shoes and leave. Suzanna struggles harder, glaring nastily at Alex.)

Alex: *pulls a chair on wheels over and sits backwards on it at Suzanna's side* I think you know what I'm interested in. You can make this really easy, or really hard.

(Suzanna glares at him, narrowing her eyes.)

Alex: Yeah, you know. Who is "Rio," and how does he manage to escape every raid? :P

(Suzanna attempts a growl under the heavy tape.)

Alex: *grins* Oh, I'm sorry, I forgot about the tape. Let me get that. *grips one end and gives a firm, but hard, yank, removing all of it*

Suzanna: (Roars) Ow, that hurt, you pervert! :p

Alex: Do I look like I care? Answer me.

Suzanna: No. I wouldn't give it to you if you were a reletive. (Makes a face) Which I wouldn't wish on Darth Vader. :p

Alex: That's too bad for you, then. However, it does give me a chance to try out something new.

Suzanna: (Narrows her eyes again) I've heard about your obession with all these designer drugs on the market. You're a cold-hearted, insane ego-maniac, and I wouldn't give you the flu, much less something this important. :p X(

Alex: I think I can change that. *holds a hand out, palm up; a black light reveals a needle* I just got a new drug a few days ago I've been dying to try out.

Suzanna: Try it out on your bonkers businesswoman girlfriend Shelia. I'm no guinea pig. X(

Alex: *continues, ignoring her comment* This drug, once injected, makes the subject more docile, easier to deal with. Of course, the results vary depending on the subjects willpower, but we'll see what happens. >:)

(Suzanna spits in his face. X( )

Alex: *wipes the spits off, then rubs his hand off on her upper leg* Not a smart move. :P

Suzanna: Neither is trying to control me. X(

Alex: We'll see about that. *injects the drug in her arm; slight grin* Now, it's just a small matter of time... ;)

(Suzanna gasps and squeals, struggling like mad, her chest thumping wildy, but eventually falls back into the chair, relaxed, with a small smile on her face.)

Alex: *grins* Wasn't that nice? ;) >:)

Suzanna: Felt weird...floaty, like Cool Whip...

Alex: Interesting. So, now do you feel like answering a few questions?

Suzanna: (Giggles) Maybe.

Alex: *slight frown* Let’s start with a simpler one. How does "Rio" manage to clear out before every raid?

Suzanna: (Laughs a little) So simple...just a little system...

Alex: What kind of system?

Suzanna: Bells. There's a camera, and it sets off a system of bells.

Alex: Really. Sooo...who's "Rio?" ;)

Suzanna: (Giggles) Can't tell. It's a secret. ;)

Alex: *moves closer; puts on a smile* Not even to me? *begins to trace a finger lightly on her upper leg* ;)

Suzanna: No, to no one. (Gasps, then chuckles) Rio wouldn't like that.

(His hands move towards her chest.)

Alex: Are you sure? ;)

Suzanna: Yes. We were told not to tell. Get into trouble...make Rio mad...hurt lotsa people.

Alex: That's too bad. *stops with a hand over her heart* I'll just have to get the answer myself, then.

Suzanna: (Makes a face) Ow, that burns. :p

Alex: I know. *eyes widen, then glares at her* Hm. It figures my advances on you wouldn't really work anyway. :P ;)

Suzanna: (Giggles) Really?

Alex: *rolls his eyes* Oh, but I am getting some interesting information about Rio's operation *wide grin* and who he really is. :D ;)

Suzanna: (Frowns) I don't think Rio will like that. :(

Alex: I don't think it matters! :P

(Shelia enters as Alex continues to hold his hand to Suzanna's chest. Shelia still looks a bit pale after the drugged wine the other night. She crosses her arms and smirks.)

Shelia: Am I interrupting anything? ;)

(She groans a little, putting one hand on her head.)

Shelia: If I ever drink wine at a social function again, it'll be too soon. :p

Alex: Just a bit of soul reading, Shelia. *glances at her* You still don't look too well.

Shelia: I must have had a heavier dose of whatever was in that wine than you did. It took a while for your Huntress to recover as well. :p

Shelia: (Smiles) It was Rio's idea to drug the wine. It was brilliant! :D

Alex: *smirks* I didn't drink as much of the wine as you. And, speaking of "Rio..." *smirks knowingly* ;)

Shelia: Yes? (Eyes Suzanna) Haven't I seen her before?

Alex: Yes, you have. She’s Nesmith's date from the dinner and his right-hand woman. :P

Shelia: Ah, yes. (Smirks and runs her fingers across Suzanna’s dainty little feet; she gasps and giggles again) Do you have any plans for her after you've read her soul?

Alex: No plans as of yet. Unless, of course, you have any. ;) *smirks* However, first, I want her to hear that I now know who "Rio" is. ;)

Suzanna: (Eyes widen) You do? :o

Shelia: (Kneels next to Alex) She's a rather pretty creature, isn't she? So slender and delicate.

Suzanna: Thank you.

Alex: *grins knowingly* Perhaps you'd like to have some fun with her. I think she'd enjoy it more coming from you than me, anyway. ;)

Shelia: I would rather like to have her as part of my doll collection. She'd make a very pretty little doll. ;)

Suzanna: I would?

Shelia: Yes, you would. (Grins) We could give her to the Huntress as a nice little present. ;)

Alex: *nods* An excellent idea. ;)

Suzanna: I would be a good present. :)

Shelia: (Runs her fingers over Suzanna's bald head) We could create wigs and dresses and a nice house for her. It would amuse the Huntress. ;)

Alex: I'm sure it would. ;)

Shelia: Of course, she would still be able to think, hear, see, and feel. >:)

Alex: Of course. >:) ;)

Suzanna: (Giggles) Yes, I would.

Shelia: It's just too perfect. You will be a lovely little toy for our newest guest. (She stands and concentrates on Suzanna. A black light surrounds the giggling girl. When it subsides, a Barbie-esque fashion doll in Suzanna's exact likeness - shaved head, serene smile, lace underwear and panties, stockings - lays on the chair. Shelia smirks and picks up the doll) Doesn't she look far better like this? ;)

Alex: Definitely. ;)

Shelia: (Concentrates again; a pink vinyl trunk filled with fancy, bright clothing, plastic accessories, and wigs of various lengths and colors appears. A yellow-and-white dollhouse materializes in one corner.) There. Now she's ready to be the Huntress' newest companion. ;) >:)

Alex: Excellent. >:) ;)

Shelia: Why don't we bring her to the Huntress? She could probably use her daily dose of drugs, anyway.

Alex: *nods* Yes, but first, there's still the small matter of "Rio." "Rio" is... *pauses for good measure* ;)

Shelia: Yes? I wish you wouldn't hold me in suspense! This isn't a B mystery movie! Whisper it in my ear, if you must. :p

Alex: Ah, but you know how much I love to torture. ;) *leans over and whispers it in her ear.* >:)

Shelia: (Eyes widen) HIM? :o

*Alex nods once.*

Shelia: He WOULD do something so noble...and so life-threatening. :p

Alex: Fitting, isn't it? :P

Shelia: (Frowns) After we give the doll to the Huntress, we need to handle Tork. He's been recalling far too much of his former personality for my liking. :p

Alex: Yes. We'll have to decide what's best for him. :P

(They move into the hallway and quickly open Daphne's room. She's sleeping on the bed, swathed in a huge, ruffled canopy and lacy satin sheets and comforters. Alex goes and shakes her gently as Shelia follows with three robots. Two carry the "doll" and her wardrobe and the dollhouse. One carries a tray with several cups of liquid and a cup of a strange, powdery substance.)

Shelia: (Goes to Daphne and shakes her elbow a little) Time to get up, Huntress. You must take your medicine, and you'll like the little present we have for you.

(Daphne rises slowly, stretching and yawning. She wears a long, champagne-colored satin nightgown, her black hair flowing around her shoulders.)

Shelia: (Takes the doll and sets it on the table next to the bed) Isn't this a pretty thing, Huntress?

(Daphne nods, smiling her silly smile and running her fingers over the doll's body and naked head.)

Shelia: Alex, give her the "medicine" while she's occupied. ;) >:)

Alex: Right. ;) >:)

(The robots set the rest of the items on the table and on the floor on the other side of the room. Daphne smiles and takes a blonde wig, setting it on the doll's head. She then dresses her in a lacy pink gown with a huge tulle skirt.)

*Alex collects the items from the tray, once again using the needle. He mixes the powder into the liquids, then injects the liquids without Daphne even noticing.*

(Daphne opens her mouth to giggle, but she's still silent. She takes a guitar and puts it around the doll's shoulder. Her eyes are very glassy, and her movements are slow and unsteady.)

Shelia: Now, to attend to Tork...then "Rio." :p

Alex: Right... ;) >:)

(They move down the hall to another room. Sounds are heard distinctly from within.)

Peter: No...please, Shelia, don't...HEEEEELLLLLPPPP!....ow, stop, don't hurt me!....Valerie, help! Michael!

(Alex and Shelia sit by Peter's bed. His room is simple and severe, done in shades of black and gray, with simple, streamlined metal furniture. He tosses and turns in his bed, his face drenched with sweat. A robot joins them with more strange powders, pills, and fluids.)

Shelia: (Sits on the bed) Peter...Peter, wake up...

*Alex stands by, arms crossed.*

Peter: (His eyes snap open; they're clear as a bell; he pulls away from Shelia, clutching the black satin sheets to his chest) No! Go away! Shelia, I don't want to hurt people for you anymore. I've brought you the soul of almost every musician I've been in contact with in Trinity's roster, and everyone from music industry insiders to desperate fans while on tour. How many more people do you want me to hurt, just so you can make people unhappy? :(

Shelia: (Strokes Peter's long light brown hair; he pulls away) Why do you think they're unhappy?

Peter: When I take their souls, they're in pain! :(

Shelia: But the pain goes away.

Peter: No, it doesn't! That's a lie! I saw what happened to those two poor girls Alex put in "The Network" the other day! :(

Shelia: You're doing us a great service, Peter.

Alex: And you misunderstood what was happening with those girls.

Peter: No! I don't want to be a part of this any longer! I want to go back to Valerie and Jordan and Austin and my friends and my teaching! :((

Shelia: (Sighs) He'll have to be subdued this time, Alex. He's getting harder and harder to control.

Alex: *shakes his head* You've done so well for us. You've been quite content with helping.

Peter: (Shakes his head) It's been almost six years since I've seen my sons, Shelia. My younger son is twelve. I'll bet he hardly remembers me. Please let me go back to them! I don't love you, and I don't want to hurt anyone anymore!

Shelia: (Pushes Peter down on the bed) Alex, bind him and gag him, then give him his medicine.

Peter: (Screams as Shelia and the robot hold him to the bed) No! NO! I don't want medicine! There's something wrong with it! I WANT TO GO HOME! :((

*Alex nods and does as told. He sends a black light over Peter. It fades, leaving him tied down and gagged. Alex then goes to the tray of medicines. He puts together a mixture and puts it in a needle. He goes to Peter and injects it in his arm.*

(Peter continues screaming into the gag for several minutes, but the screaming gradually becomes odd, snarky laughter. The nasty, reddish gleam returns to his soft brown eyes, and his body relaxes. Alex injects a second needle in Peter's wrist. When he does, Peter looks up with a smirk, and Shelia removes the gag.)

Shelia: Now, what were you saying about going home, Peter?

Peter: (Grins at Shelia's skimpy, slinky night attire and fairly exposed cleavage) I'd be at home in those, Milady. ;)

Shelia: (Pats him on the cheek) Good boy. ;)

*Alex smirks.* ;)

Peter: (Pulls at the silk scarves holding him to the bed) Um, this isn't exactly comfortable, so if you'll just...

Shelia: (Smirks) No. I think we'll leave you like that for a while.

Peter: How long?

Shelia: Just a little while. I'll come back and (winks) play a few bed games with you before we choose me a new pet from the men captured on the raid last night. My old one became too wild and had to be put in "The Network."

Peter: Too bad. He played a great game of fetch. ;)

*Alex chuckles.* ;) >:)

Shelia: (Gives Peter a hard kiss on his mouth, fondling his chest, before arruptly breaking off; Peter's wide-eyed and panting when she's done) Ta-ta, Tork darling. ;)

(Shelia and Alex leave; the robot remains behind, securing Peter's bonds.)

Shelia: Damn it! He must be getting used to the drugs. He used to only need one hit. :p

Alex: *frowns* I suppose that would happen after time. :P

Shelia: We'll have to come up with something stronger. (Turns to Alex) In the meantime, I want to know all about (smirks) "Rio" and his operation. How do they work...and how can we get our hands on him? He must have a weakness of some kind we can exploit.

Alex: *nods* I still say the best way to get to him is through his friends.

Shelia: And, more to the point...his family. Oh yes, and his business. That practically counts as family to him, too. ;)

Alex: Exactly.

Shelia: Why don't you see if you can round up his family, while I go and do what I can with his business? ;) >:)

Alex: *smirks* I'd be more than happy to. ;) >:)

Shelia: First, however (looks down at her revealing nightclothes), while this outfit may impress Tork, it won't be as popular in the boardroom. ;)

Alex: *snickers* I wouldn't be so sure about that. ;)

Shelia: You sweet-talker, you. ;) (She takes his arm, and we fade out on the hallway as they walk off together. Fade in on the Pad...or something that LOOKS like the Pad. The bandstand is still there, but the equipment is updated, as is the much-larger television. The furniture is plusher, and while some of the posters and art on the wall have been retained, the refrigerator and stove are obviously new. The totem pole also remains, standing guard over Leah, Billy, Larry, Jessica, Maryann, and Sandra as they watch Saturday morning TV. The twins, Katie, Jordan, and Elizabeth play an aimless jam, while Austin watches them and the adults sit in the kitchen, talking. Rain pours down the window behind the bandstand.)

Maryann: (Looks up from "Muppet Babies" as the commercial comes on) I'm bored. :p

Austin: Me too. You guys have been rehearsing all morning. :p

Mick: What's wrong with that? :P ;)

Katie: We've got our first gig for Aunt Valerie's Live Music Aid Festival in three days!

Austin: I want to get up and move. I've sat at the piano since "Captain Kangaroo" was on. :p

Elizabeth: I wanna get out, too. I think I'm going stir-crazy.

Sandra: You ARE stir-crazy. ;)

Shelly: *snickers* I could use a change of scenery myself.

Maryann: She's not as crazy as Baby Gonzo! ;) :D

Sandra: No one is.

Katie: Except for Mick. ;)

Jordan: Hey! Katie, lay off him! :p

Leah: Why? I agree with her! ;)

(Katie sticks her tongue out at Jordan, then grins at Leah. ;) )

Mick: *makes the "bring it on" motion* Alright, altogether now! :P

Emma: Maybe you'd better take the kids elsewhere. I've got work on my next book to do.

Davy: Book?

Emma: I write mystery series for children, updated Nancy Drew/Hardy Boys-type stuff, mostly. The one I'm working on now is about a group of young teenagers of different ages, genders, and races who form a music group and solve mysteries in their neighborhood. ;)

Katie: Mom's books have been on the children's best-seller lists for three years, and she still writes newspaper articles sometimes. :)

Lauren: *grins* She's doing quite well for herself. ;) :D

Emma: (Grins) Thanks, Lauren. You've become a darn fine accountant for Micky's architectural business yourself. ;)

Lauren: *grins Aww... ;) :">

Davy: Sounds like you girls are doing all right. :)

Lauren: Not just an accountant, either. I still help out on smaller jobs. ;)

Daphne: I was told my counterpart helps manage Sunshine Stables. :)

Elizabeth: And I'm learning! :D

Davy: So, what do all of you do on a rainy day when you need to get the kids out of the 'ouse?

Emma: (Grins) What would you guys say to a mall day? ;)

Jordan: (Smiles faintly) I need new strings for my bass. :)

Austin: I want to find some new piano sheet music.

Shelly: It's been a while since I've checked out the guys in town. ;)

Elizabeth: (Grins at Shelly) I'll help you check out the guys. ;)

Katie: All RIGHT! Lionel Kiddie City is having 75 off sales on their "Star Wars" stuff! :D

Mick: *rolls his eyes* I'm gonna check out the music store. I wanna expand my too-small CD collection. :D

Maryann: (Looks at Mick) I'll go with Little Mick. :X

*Mick gives the others a "help me" look.* :P

Katie: (Crosses her arms in a rather Mike-like fashion) I think she's cute, Mick. ;)

*Mick gives her a dull glare.* :P

Shelly: *gets Mick's hint* Hey, Maryann, wouldn't you like to hang out with me and Elizabeth? I bet we can find cuter guys than HIM. *sticks her tongue out at Mick* ;)

Maryann: Can we look at My Little Ponies? I wants one with jewel eyes and rainbow hair! :D

Shelly: *nods* Sure, Maryann. :)

Elizabeth: I want a new Pony, too. ;)

Sandra: She's thirteen, and SHE collects them.

Elizabeth: (Shrugs) Hey, they're horses. ;)

Davy: (Stands and takes his coffee cup to the sink) Well, let's get a move-on, then.

Daphne: I'm dying to see the mall! I haven't been there in ages. :)

Emma: (Shakes her head) This mall is different. They built it where the Malibu Beach Drive-In used to be.

Davy: The Drive-In isn't there anymore? :(

Emma: Shut down over ten years ago.

Daphne: Aw, that was a great place to see a movie while making love!

Lauren: *nods, lost in thought* You can say that again. *realizes; blushes* :">

Davy: (Grins) I always wondahed what you two were doin' while the rest of us were sittin' on the MonkeeMobile, watchin' "Easy Ridah" and all those bad American-International 'orror flicks. ;)

Lauren: *blushes harder* Umm, yeah... :">

Emma: (Blushes herself) They aren't the only ones who did that. :">

Jordan: The mall has a great musical store with a really nice instrument selection.

Katie: Heck, the mall has EVERYTHING! Toy stores, book stores, video stores, music stores, clothes stores, big stores, little stores, local stores, chain stores, restaraunts, arcades, movie theaters! :D

Maryann: You even meet Santa there at Kiss-mas! :D

Davy: Sounds like quite a place. ;)

Daphne: Is there any policy against moving in? ;)

Mick: Yes, apparently there is. I already tried that. ;) :P

Lauren: He really did. ;)

Katie: Aunt Lauren and Mom caught him and brought him home after a few hours. ;)

Mick: I had my tent pitched and everything! :P

Katie: He was sleeping in the camping section of Macy's. :p

Mick: *shrugs* It was nice and quiet over there!

Lauren: *rolls her eyes* You know, your father doesn't know about that. I could tell him whenever he decides to come in from the garage. ;)

Mick: You wouldn't, Ma! :-O

Lauren: Try me, Mick. ;)

Katie: Oooh, you'd be in TROUBLE... ;)

Jordan: Kaaatieee...

Austin: I like blackmail. ;)

Shelly: *nods* So do I. ;)

Emma: (Takes her tea cup and Lauren's coffee cup to the sink) Why don't you guys get going? I want to work on proofreeding Chapter Six and Seven.

Elizabeth: Before I bounce off a wall or something. :p

Maryann: 'Sides, "Muppet Babies" is over. :p

Mick: Let’s get going! :D

Katie: (Puts aside her guitar) What are we waiting for? :D

Shelly: An ingraved invitation? ;)

Emma: (As everyone laughs, Lauren turns off the TV, and the kids all reach for purses, wallets, or parents to beg money from) Call me if you need me. My communicator's on. Have a nice day, and buy something expensive for me. ;)

(Cut to upstairs. Emma watches Lauren and Micky take the younger kids in the van. Katie, Jordan, Davy, Daphne, and the twins squeeze into the TransAm. She sighs and shakes her head as the cars take off.)

Emma: (Mutters to herself and starts shuffling through papers on her mostly neat desk; we see a picture of a somewhat younger Emma and Mike. Katie is about ten. Emma holds a small boy in her arms, and a younger boy stands close to her. They're on the veranda behind the Pad. Mike has one arm around Katie and the other around Emma.)

Emma: Where's Page sixty-two? I'm normally more organized than this. (Sighs) It's all this divorce mess. Mike's coming around to discuss the papers again this afternoon. (Turns on a small radio on her desk) I need something to clear my head. Rio should do the trick.

"Rio": (As the radio crackles to life) Hello out there, all of you sitting in your rooms on this dreary, steamy afternoon. I hope you and someone you love are whiling away the time together. Maybe you're in each other's arms. Maybe you're playing chess, or watching a video, or listening to something you both love. Even the strongest wind needs something to lean on.

(Emma's eyes fly open; she puts her hand on her chest and stares at the radio in shock.)

"Rio": Trust is an important thing in a relationship. You've gotta be able to give someone your whole heart. And if it leads to the right thing (slight smile in his voice), someone I knew and loved once described a kiss as bein' sweet and meltin', like an ice cream cone.

Emma: (Barely breathes) Oh, honey...I should have known...why DIDN'T I know?

"Rio": Here's a song for all you out there to while away this gray afternoon with. Here's Davy Jones, a man who knows a great deal about love, with "Counting On You."

(Emma leans over to touch the radio as the dreamy ballad plays.)

Emma: I should have seen it all along. I still love you, but...why did you push me away?

(Emma sits back in her chair...but frowns when she hears the door open and the sound of smashing and hard feet. Her eyes widen, and she puts her hand on her stomach.)

Emma: No! I've got to...

(She never finishes this thought. A damp black silk scarf is pressed firmly over her nose and mouth by a slender hand. She struggles a bit before finally slumping in her chair, limp and unconcious.)

Alex: *smirks at her unconscious form* This is already turning out better than I thought. *concentrates; Emma disappears in a black light* Now, I believe the others were headed for the mall... ;)

*Alex disappears in a black light as we fade out on the Pad.*

(Fade in on the entrance to a huge mall. Stores line both sides of the chrome-and-glass building, while potted palms, gurgling fountains, wrought-iron benches, and small carts take up the middle. Davy and Daphne gape at the sheer size and neon-ness of it all as the kids, Micky, and Lauren make their way in through the bustle.)

Davy: (Eyes are wide) Wow. :o

Daphne: I've never seen so many stores in one place! :D :o

Micky: I'm still amazed they never consulted with me on the contruction of this place. :P

Katie: This place is GREAT! (Points to her left) There's West Coast Video, (points to her right) and there's the Deb Shop. They have really cool prom gowns. Lionel Kiddie City is straight ahead, and Sam Goody is next to them. Rick's Shore Theater 4 is upstairs. :D

Jordan: The music store is on the second floor, too. :)

Lauren: Newbury's is down the end. They've got a little bit of practically everything. ;)

Jessica: I wanna go to Monkeys! (Grins) No, it has nothing to do with Uncle Micky or Da. It sells great kids' clothes. I love their dresses. :D

Micky: There's Zaires up on the second floor. They're a department store, but they've got a GREAT selection of electronics!

Jordan: There's a really nice little record store with a great selection near Zaires. :)

Mick: *nods* I love Record Town. ;) :)

Katie: And if we get bored, there's a big ol' Ames and a smaller Jamesway down the street. :D

Daphne: Someone catch me. I think I've found heaven! :D

Davy: Any men's dress stores? ;)

Micky: Valenti's. First level, near the end, on the left. ;) *grins*

Lauren: I'm gonna check out the clothes in Roberts. :)

Elizabeth: (Nods upstairs) Hey, Shel, wanna go to Cinnabon, then hang around the movie theater to wait for cute guys to come out of "Top Gun?" ;)

Shelly: You bet! :D ;)

Maryann: Cinnabon! Cinnabon! I love their cinn'mon rolls!

Elizabeth: They're bigger than you are, Squirt. ;)

Daphne: I'll be spending every last dollar I own. Don't wait up for me. ;)

Lauren: *grins* I like the way you think, Daph. *whispers to her* I have one of Mick's credit cards* ;)

Daphne: (Whispers back) I've only vaguely heard of credit cards, but I like the sound of that. ;)

Lauren: *nods, grinning* Trust me, you'll TRULY be in Heaven. *waggles her eyebrows* ;)

Daphne: I'm in love already. :X

Austin: And don't forget the arcade! I want to work on my top score for "Q-Bert." ;)

Katie: We'll be at the music store, then Record Town, Zaires, and Lionel Kiddie City!

Elizabeth: We'll be where men are. ;)

Austin: I'll chase Coily, Ugg, and Wrong-Way. ;)

Mick: I'll be in Record Town, then...I'll be around. ;)

Davy: Why don't we meet at a restaraunt or something in two hours?

Micky: Good idea, Dave.

Lauren: How about McDonalds, then? :)

Jordan: That's rad. There's a deli that sells great salads next door. :)

Katie: Jordan is totally veggie. He won't eat meat.

Jordan: Do you know what they do to those poor cows, Kate?

Katie: Yes. My aunt was a cattle rancher and my father owns a ranch. :P

Mick: Could we NOT have this conversation again? *rolls his eyes* :P

Davy: (Sighs) Somethin' else that ain't changed. (Out loud) That's fine. We'll meet at the McDonald's and the deli in two hours.

Katie: YEEEEEHAWWWWW!!! (Grabs Jordan's arm) Come on, Jordan! Let's go to Mr. J's! :D

(She pulls Jordan to the second floor. Mick follows them as the others scatter. They stop at a small store between a Radio Shack and a BK Dalton Booksellers that displays all kinds of musical instruments, from angular synthesizer drums to keyboards to every kind of guitar. Katie fingers a shiny brown-and-cream electric guitar while Jordan chooses strings for his bass. Mick goes nextdoor to the Radio Shack and fiddles with the radios, finally getting "Rio"'s show. ;) )

"Rio": Let's up the movement quotient on this nasty afternoon. Is this wet weather making you wanna sing the blues? Well, why don't you take some advice from Mr. Micky Dolenz and don't let those raindrops bring you down? ;)

("Rio" launches into "Don't Bring Me Down" as Jordan joins Katie, turning on the keyboard. They play along with the song until a snobby-looking older clerk runs over and scolds them. She comes back with a tall, lanky older man with a drooping blond mustache, spectacles, and long, thinning blond hair. He grins, picks up a bass, and joins the kids. :D ;) )

*Lauren and Daphne head off to Roberts for clothes, with Lauren explaining the greatness of credit cards to Daphne. Both women are soon grinning rather evilly.* ;) >:)

(Austin stands in front of "Q-Bert" and tries to keep the little orange q-shaped creature moving over colored blocks without hitting purple spheres, tear-drop shaped creatures, and snakes. When the little creature hits a monster or falls of a ledge, he lets out a series of curses represented by symbols...and Austin does a bit of cursing of his own. ;) )

*Micky heads off to Zaires. He is seen playing some of the video games. A clerk goes over and says something to him, then the clerk picks up a controller and plays along!* ;)

(Leah, Jessica, and Sandra wander through Lionel Kiddie City, admiring Jem dolls, My Little Ponies, Barbie dolls in 50s-style poodle skirts, and dolls with rainbow-colored hair in glittery clothing. :D)

(Katie and Jordan are in Record Town. Katie picks up a record and hugs it, grinning dreamily at the faces of British pop group "Wham!" She goes to Jordan to show him her find...and discovers him carrying a huge stack of records and sheet music. ;) :D)

*Mick is across the store, looking at some posters for sale. He stops at one and grins widely upon seeing Christie Brinkley.* ;)

(Davy joins him...and grins even wider. :D :X ;) )

*Larry and Billy are impatiently waiting their turns to try the videos that Micky and the clerk are playing. The boys give up waiting and head off to find GI Joe stuff.* ;)

(Elizabeth, Shelly, and Maryann sit at a table in the food court. Shelly has a plate with a huge cinnamon roll on it; Elizabeth and Maryann each share a half, Maryann's cut into little pieces. Maryann concentrates on her roll. Elizabeth and Shelly concentrate on the gaggle of boys discussing all the cool arial stunts in "Top Gun." ;) )

*Micky goes into Radio Shack, where he's greeted excitedly by one of the clerks.* ;)

(Katie and Jordan are now in West Coast Video, riffling through their sales racks. Katie nods at the video in her hand and the thicker one in Jordan's hand. They hold their videos up at once so the camera can see them. Katie's is "The Empire Strikes Back"; Jordan's is "Ganhdi." ;) :) )

*Lauren and Daphne stand at a register in Roberts. The register receipt, which is still printing, is already down to the floor.* ;)

(Jessica, Sandra, and Leah have moved on to Monkeys. They admire the pretty, pastel-colored, frill-laden girl's dresses and pastel shoes.)

*Mick is now in the arcade, playing air hockey against himself.* ;)

(Katie comes out of BK Dalton Booksellers with her nose in a copy of the novelization of "Return of the Jedi." Jordan is reading a book on the Rolling Stones. ;) )

(Maryann drags Shelly through Lionel Kiddie City, putting packages of cute pony dolls in pastel colors in her arms. Elizabeth comes over to Shelly with more of them, and a stuffed horse with a rainbow mane and a star on its forehead. ;) )

*Micky's at the register in Radio Shack. He's wide eyed as his credit card has just been declined. He makes a face and pulls out a wad of bills. He hands over the entire wad. He leaves the store, grumbling as he heads for the food court.* ;) :P

(Cut to Davy arriving at McDonald's in the food court with a poster under his arm and a sleek black bag in his hand as the music ends. He wears an all-white suit with a wide silk sash and baggy pants. ;) )

Davy: I guess I'm the first one.

(Daphne and Lauren arrive next, heavily laden with shopping bags. Daphne wears a jean jacket over a black Madonna T-shirt with a ruffled, poofy neon-pink skirt and matching pink heels and stockings. ;) )

Davy: (Whistles) Looks like you ladies 'ave been busy. ;)

Lauren: Busy? Are you kidding? This was nothing. ;)

Daphne: We could have easily done another two hours! :D

Micky: *walks up, carrying a small bag from Radio Shack* Too bad my credit card couldn't have! :P

Lauren: Sorry, Mick. :(

(Jessica, Sandra, and Leah show up next, each carrying a Lionel Kiddy City bag.)

Jessica: The dresses at Monkeys cost too much. (Reaches into her bag) But I got Pizazz! She's the head of the Misfits, the evil rock group on "Jem!" (Grins) She's kinda like Shelia, but her hair is bright green and long 'steada short and red. ;)

Daphne: (Picks up the doll - she's in a bright pink and yellow package, wearing a dress with a zebra-striped collar and skirt and purple bodice and black and pink makeup) Um, very interesting, honey. :p /:)

Lauren: *peeks at the doll* That's normal. ;)

Sandra: I got Glitter! (Holds up a smaller package containing a smaller doll with lavender curls, holding a long purple staff) She uses light power to defeat Hordak on "She-Ra!" :D

Leah: *pulls out a couple fuzzy, bear action figures* I got "Maple Town" bears! Aren't they cute? :D

Davy: Aww! They're adorable! :)

Daphne: I like their little outfits! :D

*Larry and Billy show up next.*

Larry: GI Joe is the best! :P

Billy: Nuh uh! MASK is the best! :P

Davy: They've still got GI Joes around?

Larry: *holds up an action figure* Yeah! :D

Davy: (Takes the small figure) Those are a lot smallah than the GI Joes where I come from. They're more like the size of Pizazz theah.

Billy: *makes a face* These guys do the same things, but they have awesome vehicles!

Davy: (Takes the MASK figure) I ain't nevah 'eard of this at all. 'E's sort of cool. :D

Mick: *as he joins them* MASK and GI Joe are okay, but I prefer Voltron and Transformers myself. ;)

Jessica: Oooh, "Voltron"'s radical! I love the pink one!

Sandra: I like the red one. ;)

Austin: (Trots up at that point with a wide plastic bag) Got some sheet music from Mr. J's and some new notebooks from CVS. :)

Davy: Well, that's everyone but Jordan and Katie.

Daphne: And we're missing the older girls and Maryann.

Elizabeth: (Calls) No, you aren't! (They quickly join them. Maryann hugs her stuffed horse, while the other girls tote Lionel Kiddie City bags)

Maryann: (Shows Daphne the horse) I got Starlite, Mommy! He's Rainbow Brite's horsie, and he can talk and help her make the world fulla color! :D

Daphne: (Smiles) He's very handsome, dear.

Elizabeth: (Holds up one of the plump toy ponies) We cleared out their My Little Pony collection, too. ;)

Davy: We're still missin' Jordan and Katie.

Austin: Jordan probably lost track of time again. :p

Elizabeth: Katie wouldn't!

Daphne: They probably got caught up looking for records or books they liked. :)

Mick: *smirks* Or something else. ;)

Elizabeth: Mick, they wouldn't! Jordan alone would die! :p

Austin: What, make out? I don't think Jordan knows what it is. :p

*Mick just shrugs, still smirking.*

Maryann: What's "make out?" (Looks at Mick) Can I do it with Little Micky? :X

Mick: *eyes bug out* NO! :P

*Micky laughs.* :))

Daphne: Um...not now, dear. Wait a few years and see how he feels. ;)

Austin: Maybe we should go look for them.

Lauren: *nods* Good idea.

(Cut to a darker, more remote part of the mall. Katie and Jordan are holding hands and their bags, looking around. Katie is scared but trying not to show it. Jordan is just scared.)

Jordan: I think we're lost. *gulps* :P

Katie: I think we take a left turn at what used to be Basha B's.

Jordan: I thought it was a right turn?

Katie: I could have SWORN it was left! (groans) Man, this place is worse than a maze! :p

Jordan: *starts to whimper* We're NEVER gonna find the food court! :((

Katie: (Squeezes Jordan's hand) Don't worry, Big Guy, we've gotten out of the mall before on our own! It'll be ok! (Smiles at him) Trust me? :)

Jordan: *small smile; sniffs* I trust you. :)

Katie: Good. You know I'll always protect you. You're like another brother to me. I wouldn't let anything happen to my brothers, and I won't let anything happen to you, either. :)

Jordan: *smile widens* Thank you, Katie. :)

Katie: You're welcome. :)

Alex: Isn't that beautiful? *makes gagging noises as he comes around the corner. Several robots back him up.* :P

Katie: (Puts a hand on her stomach; whirls around) ALEX! What are YOU doing here? (Pushes Jordan behind her and narrows her eyes)

*Jordan whimpers.*

Katie: One scream from me or Jordan will bring every security guard in the mall running. X(

Alex: *sarcastic* I'm here to shop. *pauses* What do you THINK I'm here for? *smirks* You do that, and my robots will be on them so fast, it'll make your head spin.

Katie: You won't get us, Alex. I won't let you. You know what my father and Jordan's mother will do to you if we get hurt, anyway.

Jordan: Katie, don't let them make you mad.

Katie: I won't, Big Guy.

Alex: *snorts* This is just so sickening! Yuck! :P ;)

Katie: Jordan, run. Get out of here. Go find help.

Jordan: Katie, no!

Katie: One of us has to get to the others!

Jordan: Katie, I won't leave you!

Katie: Jordan, GO! (She growls the last part; Jordan steps back with a gulp)

Alex: *rolls his eyes* This drivel is making my eyes water. *motions to the robots* Get them!

(Katie lets out a growl and drops her bags as Jordan takes off as fast as he can, dropping his bags in the process.)

Alex: Oh, I'm REALLY shaking now. *snorts* :P

(There's a soft blue light around Katie. When it subsides, a small female black wolf stands in her place. The wolf runs to Alex and bites him hard on the rear. ;) )

Alex: *screams* Oh, shi...oww! :P

Jordan: (He stops when he sees the light) KATIE, NO! You can't control yourself when you're like that! :o

(Katie jumps on Alex, scratching and biting at him. Jordan runs back to them, making his bow and arrows appear.)

Alex: *tries to shield his face* Damn robots! Getter offa me! X-( :P

(The robots pull the wolf off, though she struggles in their arms. As Alex gets up, an arrow just barely misses his shoulder.)

Alex: You're gonna GET IT for that! X-(

Jordan: (Gulps) Please, let Katie go! She's my best friend, even when she's a wolf! :(

Alex: *rubs at his rear* Like I care. I'm taking her with me. *smirks* And you can't do a thing about it. >:)

Jordan: Yes I can! (He shoots his arrow again. This time, it parts Alex's curls) I won't miss next time.

Robot Guard 1: (Sees people running up to them) Maybe we should just take the boy with us as well.

(The wolf's eyes grow larger, and she struggles harder.)

Alex: *growls; runs a hand through his hair* I'm gonna take that bow and shove it... (Out loud) Yes! Bring him along, too! X-(

Jordan: No! (But two of the robot guards take the boy's arms; another takes his bow and quiver of arrows. The robot guards bring the wolf and the frightened teenager to Alex.)

Alex: You're not so tough now, are you? :P ;)

(Katie sticks her tongue out at them. :p)

Jordan: (Whimpering) Please, let Katie go. I don't care what you do with me, but don't hurt her. :(

Alex: That's so touching, it makes me ill. :P I don't make deals, little boy. *grins* Besides, I’m interested in BOTH of you. >:)

Jordan: M...me? :o

(The wolf lets out a roar and struggles harder. X( )

Robot Guard 2: We should subdue both the prisoners. I don't know how much longer we can hold the wolf.

Alex: *nods* I'll subdue them the easiest way. *smirks as a muted black light appears around both of them*

Jordan: What's going on? :o

(The wolf shakes her head in anger and horror. :o X( )

*When the black light fades, the robots are left holding a female baby wolf and a red setter puppy in separate cages.*

Alex: *grins* The classics never fail. ;) >:)

(The wolf lets out a roar and scratches at her cage. The puppy whimpers and sobs. :( X( )

Robot Guard 3: There are people approaching, sir! Should we make our exit now?

Alex: *nods* Yes, before anyone spots us.

Davy: (Off-camera) ALEX! Damn that blaggard, 'e must 'ave them!

Maryann: Oh no! The Bad Man! :o :((

Micky: Let me at him! X-( :P

(Katie and Jordan howl as loud as they can.)

Lauren: What was THAT? :P

Micky: I don't like that sound. :P

Maryann: Doggies! :D

Jessica: (As they arrive) Doggies aren't allowed in the mall unless they're stuffed or leading blind people! :o :p

(Katie roars and scratches at her cage. Jordan whimpers and looks at Katie sadly. :( X( )

Robot Guard 3: Intruders, sir!

Alex: *to the robots* Get going! I'll be along in a moment. ;)

Robot Guard 2: Yes, sir. (They take off for door next to one of the closed stores.)

Mick: Stop them!

Austin: The cages! They have Katie and Jordan! They have my brother! X(

Alex: What's the rush? Is there a fire somewhere? *grins* Perhaps right here. *smirks as a black light appears on the floor, leaving a small fire when it fades* Have fun. >:) *He heads for the door, after the robots.*

Austin: Bring my brother back, you creep! X(

Davy: Oh shi...(sees the kids)...shoot. :p :o

Elizabeth: Someone use their cold beam and put that out! :o

Micky: I got it! *concentrates on the fire; it goes out, leaving a little bit of smoke behind*

Daphne: (Sees security guards running up to the smoke) I think that's our signal to get out of here, too! :p :o

Elizabeth: (Indicates the smoke) They might think WE did that! :p

Lauren: Let’s get outta here before we give them the chance! :P

(The rest of the group climbs over or walks around the place where the fire was; Elizabeth and Shelly pick up Katie and Jordan's dropped bags on the way. They all follow Alex out the door.)