Happy Days: 20 Years Later

[Bea]

Chapter 1: A New, Weird Student In UWM

Location: The University of Wisconsin im Milwaukee, Professor Jennifer Jerome's class, Monday 8th September, 8:00am.

The gang was all sitting close together, in their student desks, waiting for Prof. Jerome. The gang was all nervous today since they were all expecting a big psychology test from Prof. Jerome today.

Eddie Weber commented to the gang, "Dude! I can't totally believe how much fun it was this Summer!"

Danni Cunningham thought back over their Summer vacation, "They say that time flies when you're having fun, but I never noticed this behavior scientifically. It was another great Summer! All thanks to Allie for setting up that clever trick!"

Allie Malph, the prankster princess of UWM like her father (the prankster prince) before her, said, "I guess you were right, Danni. You can enjoy Summer no matter how old you are!" Jane Martell (Bunny Martell's daughter), Elvis Philips and his twin brother Gene (Roger and Jenny's sons) all smiled, looked at each other, and nodded in agreement.

Gene sighed, "Ahhh...another Summer that's passed like the sands of time, but the memories live on."

Jane looked around the classroom and pointed out, "Well, it looks like Prof. Jerome's gonna be late….for the first time ever…" The class bell rang soon after.

Eddie remembered about the prank they pulled on the last day of College last year, "Hey Allie, did Dean Clarkson ever punish you for that....". Eddie began snickering thinking about the event, "....saggy butt joke?"

Allie replied, "Yeah, but only a few days of detention..."

Prof. Jerome ran enthusiastically into the classroom and said, "Howdy, class!"

Elvis stood up from his chair in shock and questioned,"Yo, Prof. J…what are you doing here at this time?!? You're a bit late."

Prof. Jerome assured the class, "Don't worry Elvis, I know how you all missed me." The class looked the classroom and sighed harshly disagreeing with her. She continued, "Sadly Prof. Garritty's off becuase his father's just died of pneumonia so Prof. West had to substitute for his class and Prof. Murphy had to substitute for my class."

Gene said, "But, Prof. Jerome, what about Prof. Murphy?"

Prof. Jerome explained, "Take a deep breath, Gene, and relax your inner chi…he's already there."

Jane commented to the gang, "I never thought I'd be so happy to see Prof. Jerome again." The gang took a deep sigh and relaxed knowing at least for some time they wouldn't be under the torture of Prof. Foster's teaching.

Eddie Weber commented with disgust, "Prof. Jerome, is it true that you once dated my dad and nearly married him?"

Ashley Collins, (Fred Collins' son) said, "Like, we are they ones that have to sit next to your big butt, where you can't even fit into your pants, Weber!"

Eddie stood up on the chair, turned and yelled back, "Hey! My butt's not big, Collins, it's just curved. No wonder it explains your brain!"

Rob Mullett (Mel Mullett's son) was about to yell at Eddie when Prof. Jerome interrupted, "Now class! People! Settle down......oh, wait there seems to be a student I missed, a new one....his name is Ashley..." Prof. Jerome was having troubling pronouncing her last name.

Rob and Ashley gave their well known word, "Scandalous!"

Eddie said, "Oh great, another one?!? Another prissy, uptight guy?"

Allie immediately tried to uplift her boyfriend's spirits, "Yo, Eddie! It's just another Ashley to prank on!" Eddie's face immediately turned to a sinister smile; the pranks were just flooding into his head now.

The class could hear a panting getting louder and finally, the panting was at the class door.

The ENTIRE class except Prof. Jerome was just completely stunned and shocked. As if the class had seen a ghost or something. Prof. Jerome was saying, "...ah ha! You are Ashley Xxxchapw...?" The young man who hosted the meetings in Austin was there. He said, "You can just call me Ashley X. Prof. Jerome, right?" Prof. Jerome replied and pointed, "Why yes! You can have a seat right behind Eddie, who's father I almost got married to."

Danni amazingly said, "Out of sight!"

Elvis said, "I've never seen a dude dress like that before in UWM!"

Ashley X had the beauty of all the boys in the college all put together, but not as much as Eddie even though Allie knew he was dressed a punk. Ashley X had a gothish-like style, (all black clothes, ripped black jeans, no piercings, black make-up, and silver chain necklace and hot pink spiked hair [normally had black hair]) and Ashley, Rob and Eddie were in such shock that it was like their mouths hit the floor. The class was just staring at him for a full 3 minutes no one ever dressed that radically before in UWM.

After about 4 FULL minutes of staring and Prof. Jerome introducing Ashley X to the names of the students in class, Denim Tuscadero silently delighted remarking, "This is going to very moist....just wait 'til I tell everyone in school!"

Prof. Jerome said, "Okay, Okay, class we don't want to make our new student feel uncomfortable....I just have to say Ashley X that style is absolutely wicked! Now on to Chapter 4 in Math...."

The class tried to continue back to the normal flow of class, but in the back of every student's mind was who and what this new Ashley guy is.

[Bea]

Chapter Two: The First Contact With A New Ashley

Location: Arnold's Drive-In & Disco, Monday 8th September 1985, 3:30pm.

The gang hung at their usual booth to meet up with the new Ashley.

Jane said, "I can't believe it! This Ashley is one I've never seen before!"

Allie said, "Yeah! I though it was a tie between Elvis and Eddie to see who looked the toughest, but with him next to both of them.....they almost look like Ashley C!"

Rob and Ashley C were away from the gang and Ashley C said, "Can you believe this? What is happening to the good name Ashley? I mean it didn't work with that catwalk collapsing Spinelli and now we have an Ashley who looks ten times worse than Elvis Philips and Weber."

Rob responded, "Well, Weber didn't actually collapse on the catwalk...do you remember that Mr UWM 1984 competition?"

Ashley C angrily responded, "Whatever! You know what I mean....besides, that competition, was like, soooo fashionably traumatic for me!"

Rob responded, "Me too!"

Meanwhile, back with the gang they noticed the doors open and out came Ashley X. The rest of the students in Arnold's class were now staring at Ashley X. Even the new owner, Ben Roberts, just stood near the doors with complete shock. The place was in total silence.

"What the heck?" said Ben not noticing the reason why Arnold's was silent. "Now that was more like it when Commisioner Kirk was Sheriff...finally people around Clarence will shut their mouths!"

Eddie broke the silence and politely said, "Hey, how's it going Ashley X?"

Ashley X replied quietly and shy, "Fine, I guess...." noticing everyone staring at him. "This is getting really embarrassing...."

Eddie said, "Sorry about that, it's just so shocking that an Ashley, that we know of, dressing like you."

Ashley X calmly responded yet trying to think of some type of answer, "Well....back in South Park; my old college never.....had anything like that...." Ashley X mentally sighed.

Jane said, "Wow! I never though makeup could actually make a girl look tougher!"

Danni added, "Yeah!....You're use of makeup, hair coloring, and more have completely revolutionized everyone's thoughts!"

Gene then continued, "Your self-expression in your own self be true made every girl think that makeup and fashion was an Ashley trait."

Ashley X looked around and smirked saying, "Woooowww! Really?"

Allie responded, "Yeah definitely! " she soon laughed and said, "Wait 'til Ashley C and Rob deal with this expression of fashion."

Eddie soon invited the gang and Ashley X to their usual booth. They started to bond together and laugh, but at the last 15 minutes of the afternoon, Ashley X secretly went to the next booth. Ashley X started talking with all of them secretly and giving them all candy. Denim (Pinky Tuscadero's daughter) soon noticed after 5 minutes of the meeting, and secretly spied on Ashley X's speeches and talks with everyone. Denim took notes of how Ashley X was trying to influence them and telling them that they don't need to suppressed by the older students just because they are bigger and older. Denim whispered, "Oh yeah! Just what I need....the first bit of dirt on Ashley X."

Denim soon talked with Ben. Ben rejected to take any action on it.

Denim replied, "But, Ben, how can you ignore this? I've noticed how Ashley X is trying to influence them, who knows maybe even brainwash."

Ben stated, "Look, Denim, it's not like there is damaged property to the city or she broke rules. I can't simply give her a punishment for talking that....but believe me, Denim, I wish I could....I really wish...." He began to chuckle and laugh.

Denim soon and unknowingly walked into the gang. Allie was bumped into by Denim, she angrily said, "Watch where you're going, Buttzoid! Otherwise, I'll let Eddie fix the problem where you won't bump into people for some time, much less walk!"

Denim immediately replied in terror as she noticed Allie's angry look, "Okay! Okay! I'm sorry...don't hurt me!"

Allie noticed her usual note pad. "Let me have a look at this..." she started reading and ripping the pages one by one. Then she finally noticed Ashley X's paper on the discussions with everyone in College and at Arnold's, soon the gang and her read it. Danni replied, "You can't be logical about this, Denim, could you?"

Jane replied, "Honestly, dudette! This is totally ridiculous, I mean Ashley X...brainwashing students...yeah, right girlfriend."

Denim responded, "But it's honestly true...I noticed something definitely suspicious with her and the others."

Eddie replied with disgust, "From you wesael.....anything is possible. A snitch like you can't be trusted at all."

Denim loudly and trying to convince the gang, "But it's absolutely true! I swear!"

Allie says, "True....like you lying and saying that Eddie and me liked that first kiss with each other? Gimme me a break. What a bunch of crap!"

Eddie was shocked by Allie's choice to use that as an example, as was the rest of the gang. Eddie was a really close friend with Allie because he had always defend her, a little more so than the rest of his friends and because their fathers had shared an apartment in College.

Denim quickly ran out of the scene. Allie responded to it by saying, "Just like a weasel does.....runaway....."

Immediately Ben noticed Ashley X chewing on some gum and was walking fast toward him. Eddie reacted to it and said, "Yo, Ashley X! Here take my prescription gum excuse quick! It works every time."

Ashley X was eager to take the fake prescription paper, but he said, "It's okay, Eddie, I can handle her...."

Jane immediately responded, "Are you crazy?!? Ben's gonna give us serious cleaning time if you don't take Eddie's help..."

Danni added to it, "I concur, the probability of getting no time without Eddie's help is low....very low, indeed..."

But before Ashley X could respond, Ben's shadow rose over him. Ben with his overbearing presence asked, "....and what do you have?" Ashley X defiantly said, "What do you think! It's gum....I would of thought you being a fatass for so many years would have finally figured that out." Allie and Eddie were both showing the cutting the head sign with their hands to advise Ashley not to continue provoking Ben.

Ben soon became infuriated by Ashley's response while Ashley remained cool and calm about it. Ben yelled, "You little punk! Get yourself back here right now!" Ben grabbed Ashley X by the collar and took him to secluded area of Arnold's where only he and Ashley X were there. After Ashley X faced against the wall and Ben was about leave, Ashley X interrupted and said, "And where do you think you are going?" Ben become even more upset, "Going?!? Let's get this straight...no hanky-panky business, you scoundrel, I'm the owner and what I do or say is FINAL!" Ashley X responded, "If you continue to proceed with this punishment, and not stay out of my way....I can guarantee you Benny boy....you will be the one who will be punished!"

Ben shrugged it off by laughing lightly and walked away saying, "I would love to see you try.....you're just an insolent little punk...."

[Bea]

Chapter Three: More Than Just Friends?

Location: Marion Cunningham's house, Tuesday 9 September 1985, 4:30pm

The gang and Ashley X meet at Danni's widowed grandmother's house after school or College.

"All right! Time to get out of here!" Elvis said.

"Yo, dudes and dudettes! Let's all go to Arnold's for some ice cream! I can't wait to get Pistachio ice cream with peanut butter topping all over it!" said Gene.

The others all said "Ewww!" by simply them picturing it their mouths.

Marion replied, "Well, Gene, we may not get that type of ice cream but we'll definitely all go there!"

The gang was all excited and leaving to follow Mrs C, who was already bicycling toward Arnold's, but then in just a second he noticed Ashley X not going and stopped his skateboard. "What's wrong, Ashley? Don't you wanna join us?" Eddie questioned.

Ashley X responded trying again to think of some other excuse so he won't expose them to his 'double-life', "I would really love to guys, but....Well.....my folks want me....to come immediately home......yeah, right home, because of something important....but they won't say what."

Amy (Danni's cousin) said, "Are you sure? Is it really important? We'll all definitely miss your company!"

Ashley X said, "Sorry, girlfriend....it's just something I have to do....but have a good time."

Eddie reluctantly left, feeling kind of bad Ashley X couldn't join them and immediately caught up with the gang. Ashley X soon waited for the students and parents to clear around and then quickly got his cell phone where a dark, black car picked him up about 2 blocks away which would take him to the closest big city. Denim, quickly observed this when she quickly ran to some nearby bushes. She mentioned, "If this information, doesn't convince the rest...who knows what will..."

Meanwhile, the gang arrived at Arnold's and walked over to the gang's booth. As Marion, Joanie and the gang excitedly asked Ben their orders of ice cream. Allie went through her jacket pockets and she realized that she did not have enough money for her favorite sundae. After the others found a booth for all of them to eat their ice cream, Allie arrived at the register and disappointingly said, "I'm sorry, Ben, but it looks today I can't buy any ice cream today."

Amy immediately in shock said, "What?!?"

Wanda, Allie's younger sister, stopped eating her ice cream instantly and said, "Oh bummer! What have we done where the cows can't bless Allie with an ice cream treat?"

Jane added, "What a bummer! Allie, you should of told us you didn't have enough money we could of gave some of our money instead of using it all for ourselves."

Allie replied, "It's okay, guys....thanks for trying though..."

Eddie came to the rescue and asked, "Wait a sec, Allie!" He faced Ben and said, "What can both of us get for $4.20?"

Ben hesitantly responded, "Well, Eddie, I may not be able to give you both sundaes but...." he began to smirk, "you two can share a large milkshake together...."

Eddie eagerly faced and asked Allie, "You don't mind if we share do you?"

Allie casually replied with a smile, "Sure, I don't mind....Eddie, you're always there to the rescue."

Eddie happily assured, "Well, what are sweethearts for?"

When Eddie received the milk shake with two straws, both he and Allie sat opposite to each other at the end of booth. The gang began to talk about Ashley X's dilemma while Allie and Eddie began slowly sipping on each of their straws.

Wanda began the discussion, "I can't believe that Ashley X was not even scared of Ben as Allie told me yesterday!"

Elvis quickly added, "Yeah! There's no way any sane dude or dudette would do that..."

Marion and Joanie watched the gang continue the discussion. Eddie on the other hand, was noticing Allie in a different light. Eddie began think again about his behavior toward Allie, he knew that in the past he completely offered all of his ice cream to his friends if they didn't have enough, but he thought to himself 'Why was I so eager to share with Allie? I don't normally do that...' Then finally with a simple smile from Allie, it finally occurred to Eddie....that she had a crush on him since First Grade. After this revelation, he knew they had to keep it a secret despite the fact that they started dating by Seventh Grade because he knew that Allie would be teased constantly at school especially after observing how Danni was teased when she had a huge crush on Barry Allen last year. Eddie finally decided that he definitely had to keep his relationship public because he knew that he wouldn't want to hurt Allie.

Soon a question was asked to Eddie about Danni's opinion on Ashley X. Allie talked louder and louder, "Yo, Eddie! Eddie!"

Eddie immediately snapped himself out of the 'lover's lane world' that was going on inside his head. He quickly answered, "Yeah! Yeah! What's happening?"

Allie calmly questioned, "Are you okay, Eddie?" Allie was looking straight at Eddie....the same way how that simple smile began the thoughts about Allie in his head.

Eddie quickly replied, "Sure! Yeah, sure, babe!" The rest of the gang looked at each other a bit confused. Eddie answered the question, but no matter how often he tried to watch his 'lovesick' behavior he seemed to fall easily back into it. Eddie just began to simply enjoy sharing the ice cream with Allie, his mind was not focused on anything else.

Danni began to notice Allie's unusual behavior toward Eddie now and then in the discussion. By the end of the discussion, the gang was ready to go back home, the gang again tried to get Eddie's attention. Eddie quickly brought himself out of the relationship he had with Allie and the gang left....except for Danni. Danni approached Ben and asked him, "Ben....what type of milkshake was that? I noticed you had a smirk about it."

Ben replied, "Well, Danni...." he began to laugh lightly "....usually most couples order that milkshake."

Danni answered, "Thanks, Ben......hmmm...out of sight....." As Danni began leaving Arnold's, she started thinking about Allie and Eddie's behavior and the milk shake but she didn't think much of it. Danni thinking the Eddie proposing to Allie was the last thing on her mind.....Danni knew that it just wasn't possible...especially since they were just College students...

[Bea]

Chapter Four: The City Transforms...

Location: Eddie's house, Wednesday 10 September 1985, 5:30pm. The gang along with Potsie, Courtney, Becky, Ralph, Leather, Wanda and Lou are Present.

As Ashley X looked at the city from Eddie's bedroom window, he said to himself, "Now this is more like it!"

An oil well taking up one-forth the size of City Hall has been constructed. With a 9 foot barbed wire fence around the oil well, it constantly pumps oil from within the earth. The 70 foot height of this oil well dwarfs the surrounding houses and UWM. This oil well gave the presence of forbidding, intolerant, militant appearance that seemed to somewhat destroy the happy innocence of the town even though the rest of the gang remained at Eddie's desk. Ashley X then went to the bathroom where he was ready to make a transformation.

Meanwhile, 2 hours pass, and the gang begins to walk to downstairs as the Weber's Austrailian maid Sheila Robinson came to Eddie's room.

"Dude, I might not be able to sleep a wink last night! It seemed like there's construction throughout the whole neighborhood." said Eddie.

Potsie replied with curiosity, "Yeah! Me too! I haven't heard so much noise in one night since this Ashley X guy showed up and this is too strange for Midday Milwaukee."

Allie then spoke to them all, "Well,...I guess we'll all find..." Suddenly they saw the city and its transformation. They were surprised just as if they have seen the huge satellite dish from last summer's adventure. Becky continued slowly while he and the rest of the gang were shocked, "......oooouuuut..."

As the gang approached WACZ TV, their heads were still looking toward the gigantic oil well. As the gang began to arrive for the evening news, they continued to discuss about the oil well that seemed to have taken over their fair city yet they did not notice the clocks and time. The gang and the rest of the TV crew arrived just in time before the news had stopped....Ashley X arrived. The TV station again was completely floored at how he looked.

Courtney began by saying, "Well...Oh my god, you're Eddie's friend, Ashley X! You appear to be very different today? Is something wrong?"

Ashley X simply responded back, "Oh nothing's wrong....I just wanted to dress a...little....different today."

Yet Ashley X did not dress a little differently this time. His dressing style was completely the opposite of what he wore yesterday. He was dressed similar to Brian Setzer in the Stray Cats 'Stray Cat Strut' music video and furthermore he 'pushed the envelope' by wearing a quiff rather than a Micheal J. Fox hairdo. The Malphs and Webers were completely mind frozen in shock. In a few moments, Courtney and Leather began to look at their dressing styles and started crying and uncontrollably sobbing because they realized that Ashley X had a greater fashion style and that Eddie and Allie's outfits, in comparison with Ashley X's, just looked hideous.

Leather slowly began speaking while still continuing to sob, "I....just like can't... believe....it! How dare he humiliate our kids!"

Ralph responded with the worry of his wife's sobbing, "She makes...Allie....and....Eddie....seem...like.....fashion rejects!" and suddenly looked worried.

Elvis slowly began to stutter speaking toward Ashley X, "What....happened....to...you....Ashley X? Who....forced...you...to...go through this?"

Ashley X began walking toward the set of Midday Milwaukee and speaking to the gang and said, "Well I wanted to try something different this time. I think I may have gotten off on the wrong foot dressing too rebellious...I thought this would counter-act it for now."

The gang now began to arrive back to their senses. Soon talking and whispering began to flood the station.

Lou turned around to face Ashley X and said, "But....you looked so awesome and...."

Wanda continued her younger brother's sentence, "...tough looking! Now, no offense, but you look like one of those powder-puff boys..."

Leather and Courtney stopped crying. Elvis yelled back at them, "About time you put on a lid on it already! It's not the end of the world! Sheesh! Gimme a Break!"

Ashley X smiled and said, "Okay, okay. I'll try to find something else..." Ashley X suddenly turned around and faced where Jenny and Roger Philips were and said, "Hi, Mr and Mrs Philips!"

The twins froze again and looked toward their parents. Jenny said "It's almost 8:00pm....it's time we got home."

Roger looked infinitely at his wife after she spoke. He finally said, "Gene, Elvis, you two are coming home right now!"

Danni yelled "Sorry, Guys, we gotta go too."

Ashley X quickly responded to Danni, "Don't worry, Danni....this is the future of Milwaukee. Dean Clarkson says that this time the computer is much more obedient than the last one and that the company has made many improvements!"

Jane replied, "Gee...I don't know....I mean how can we trust it again? I mean last time the SAL 3000 tried to do everything to stop us."

Ashley X answered, "Well...all I know is that the Dean said that this time there is a manual override to operate the SAL 4000 in case something goes out of control."

The gang began to look at SAL 4000 suspiciously, it was definitely hard for them to believe that this time it was going to be much better.

Lori Beth soon interrupted Danni's thoughts, "Okay, Danni! Let's get you home! Your dad's waiting for us in the car."

[Bea]

Chapter Five: Where The Hell Did Dean Clarkson Go?

Location: Prof. Jerome's Classroom, Thursday 11 September 1985, 10:00am, the students have just arrived...the gang and Ashley X slowly walk toward outside down the hallway

Gene began to speak, "Where are thou things that comfort us? Why has UWM changed?"

Elvis spoke to the gang, "Can you believe it guys? I mean, dude, a huge oil well taking up one-fourth of the city and SAL 4000 back in WACZ in one day?"

Eddie replied, "It's crazy, Elvis....I know real crazy... I mean just last month I stood up to the school district about them removing the lockers and paving over the playground…and now….NOW THIS?!?" Eddie couldn’t believe it that after locking himself in his bedroom and standing up against the UWM bulietin board last September…the campus changed….again!

Soon they were interrupted by Prof. Jerome. She had become rather happy about seeing Ashley X wearing a 50s-ish outfit to College which was a lot different to Eddie's mullett (which Potsie had ordered him to get cut in April) last November. She said to Ashley X, "What are you doing, Ashley X?"

Ashley X carelessly responded, "Studying...of course."

Prof. Jerome continued, "You may be new around here, but you definitely know that quiffs were acceptable hairstyles for UWM in the 1950s but not the 1980s!"

Eddie whispered to Ashley X's ear, "Hey! Run with us and I can give you a better hairdo than that James Dean look....that way you won't be forced to stay in the Dean’s office all day."

Ashley X then whispered back to the gang, "Its fine...I can deal with the man...." The gang glanced over at Ashley X slowly as if he was crazy.

Prof. Jerome said, "Ashley X, that is really good on you like Eddie's mullett last year until Potsie took him to a barber!"

Ashley X slowly but confidently watched Prof. Jerome. He whispered back to gang, "Don't worry...enjoy time without me.....you guys, don't have to save me like you did for Eddie or Allie.....I'll be okay....really..." Ashley X smirked while carrying on with his work.

Suddenly Denim running inside the psychology department to catch Prof. Jerome attention when Allie got in his way. Allie asked, "And now for something compleately different, a weasel."

Denim instantly snapped back saying, "It's none of your beeswax Allie, now out of my way and I'm really sorry about my lateness, Prof. Jerome." Denim tried to walk out of the way again but Allie was still blocking her.

Elvis angrily demanded, "Now tell us what it is or get ready for your eye to look like your pen color!" Elvis was forming a fist in his right hand while holding Denim's blouse collar with the left.

Denim quickly responded, "Okay! Okay! I saw Ashley X got into a mysterious dark black car about 2 blocks from here heading toward downtown! Please don't hurt me!"

Jane quickly replied, "What?!? Are you crazy, Denim?"

Eddie quickly also added, "Yeah! What kind of information is that?.....it's so wacko!"

Denim was squirming, "It's really, honestly true! The car had some mysterious 3 letter license plate and there were 3 guys in suits picking her up!" Denim finally got free and ran away from the gang and toward the seat she usually sat in.

Jane commented, "That's really lame, dudes and dudettes! I never heard Denim make up such a huge lie before...."

Danni replied, "Well Denim had a really slow week snitching on students.....it explains it."

Allie said enthusiastically, "Let's pull a big prank on Rob and Ashley C after class, guys!"

Eddie asked, "But what about Ashley X? Shouldn't we try to help him out though?....I mean even though he didn't tell us to, no kid deserves to miss out on a psychology test and my dad didn't."

Allie replied, "Look here, Eddie....he told us specifically not to help him out. But he really is one tough guy!"

The gang replied one by one, "Yeah...he sure is...." and began heading outside as soon as the lunchtime bell rang.

Finally Prof. Jerome arrived to see the gang leaving class as they put their tests on her desk. The cafeteria lights were turned off and the shades were all pulled down allowing very little sunlight to enter into the cafeteria. The lunch ladies (Sandra and Katrina) were too busy preparing and cooking food in the kitchen (a different room not in the serving area) that they had no idea if anyone was at the cafeteria. Ashley X was causally sitting on the lunch table bench while Eddie and the others joined him.

Dean Clarkson charged towards Ashley X and began, "You little insubordinate brat! I have never dealt with a student like you before, not even Edmund Weber behaves like this! You seem to wantingly try to defy me while Mr Weber seems to do whatever he pleases." The Dean noticed Ashley X's posture of sitting. "You better keep your legs crossed, young man, wearing that quiff! There is no way I'm gonna tolerate Brian Setzer or Elvis Presley revial attire in this College! That style may have seeped into this college 30 years ago, but I will not let it infect the college but this decade as long as my regularity is going strong!"

Ashley X slyly and sarcastically responded, "So.....and your point...Dean..um, Dean Carbzoid?"

Dean Clarkson became infuriated and shoved her face in front of Ashley X's where only a couple of inches separated them. "You insolent annoying maggot! You can be guaranteed that your parents will hear from this and that you'll have detention for hour for two weeks!"

Ashley X calmly replied, "Oh no....I told you not to stand in my way, but you didn't listen...."

Dean Clarkson gasped instantly, "What?!?"

Ashley X continued, "Now you shall be the disciplined student.....Boys!" Ashley X yelled the word 'Boys' on his cell phone and suddenly Big Rob and the other men from the meeting burst through the cafeteria doors as if they working for the CIA. Everyone in the cafeteria looked around and before she could gasp the men and Big Rob restrained Dean Clarkson's arms and forced duct tape around his mouth and put a metal bracelet around his left wrist, which, appeared to be a watch but had a more sinister purpose.

While the men and Big Rob restrained Dean Clarkson, Ashley X began to quietly tease the man himself, "You see here, Dean Clarkson....you said that I need discipline but I think you're the one that needs it. I forewarned you, but you wouldn't listen." Dean Clarkson was angrily trying to get out of restrained situation like an animal. "And now you shall learn.......and how you might say? You remember those restraining bracelets you were so enthusiastic to get with the SAL 4000...well you have one right now on your wrist. If you defy me or speak of this incident or about the bracelet you can bet that you'll receive a painful shock from the bracelet..... Here's a little demo..." Ashley X pressed a few buttons for a certain code on his cell phone that gave Dean Clarkson a painful shock, his yell of pain was silenced by the duct tape.

Ashley X continued, "Take Dean Clarkson out of my sight now, boys....and make sure that when he returns to College on Friday, he is well disciplined...." Big Rob and the men took him out the cafeteria doors and quickly took him into a white van just outside the parking lot. Big Rob and the men quickly sped off thinking that they were not noticed.....little did they know that Butch and Denim caught part of the incident. Denim and Butch just quickly stared at each other and ran out of sight before the men or Big Rob would notice as the other students cheered as their crabby dean was gone.

Meanwhile, back at the cafeteria, Ashley X turned on the lights and pulled the window shades back up. Suddenly, Lunch Lady Sandra asked, "Are you all ready for some tomato surprise?"

Ashley X was quickly caught off guard and faced Lunch Lady Sandra and simply said, "Sure....I can't wait."

Ashley X quickly walked out of the cafeteria doors and whispered, "It won't be long now..."

[Bea]

Chapter Six: The City Revolution

Location: Arnold's Drive-In & Disco, Friday 12 September 1985, 7:30pm, the gang and Ashley X just arrive outside drive-in disco.

For the past couple days, Ashley X had always been speaking with the other students at the first 10 to 15 minutes of the disco dancing compitition. The gang did not really suspect anything suspicious about Ashley X speaking with Wanda and her friends. Ashley X was getting ready to launch another step of his plan.

While Ashley X was walking with the gang, he began to talk, "Doesn't it seem ridiculous that we have to answer to Ben whenever he wants to? I mean how extreme his punishments are? If it wasn’t for the late great Al Delvecchio, you guys would have been tortured since you guys brought Amy and Wanda into the College student club….And this city Constitution is really unfair!"

Allie and Jane both replied, "Well....it does make sense...."

Elvis added, "Yeah, it was totally unfair when I was labeled as the toughest guy in UWM and Eddie didn't want to speak to me."

Ashley X began walking toward Ben, "I'm gonna to protest to Ben immediately and this constitution."

Before Ashley X could turn around, Eddie grabbed his wrist, "Are you bonkers?!? Defying Ben, Clarence and the Arnold's Constitution is just suicide! I mean, yeah, the constitution and Clarence aren't perfect, but who is? This constitution has been in place for many years even back to when my folks were in UWM....but I'm sorry I just can't support you, Ashley X on something like this! Who knows what type of chaos could occur..."

"I'm sorry, Ashley X, but we can't either." said Danni referring to herself and Jane.

Allie quickly pointed out, "C'mon, dudes and dudettes, I mean who know this might be better for the city! Go ahead, Ashley X, show Clarence what ya got!"

Gene showed his support for Ashley X as well, "Go forth, Ashley X! Don't let your ideas and views be hampered by the ominous powers of the chef."

Jane added while giving a salute, "Go on, Ashley X! I'm behind you too!"

Danni, Eddie, and Elvis were also surprised by the other half of the gang supporting Ashley X. Danni soon began the dispute to the other half, "How can agree with Ashley X? I mean the foundation of Milwaukee is at stake...everything we know could be radically changed!"

All the others joined in and they became so involved with the dispute that they did not realize that Ashley X had already left to talk with Ben.

Soon Wanda interrupted her older sister and asked, "What're you doing, sis?" Wanda may have been 16 years old but her face compared with Allie's still wasn't perfect.

Allie looked back and instantly smiled when he noticed Wanda. "Hey there, sis, I haven't seen you since this morning."

Wanda asked, "Why are all you College students getting so upset about?"

The rest of the gang continued to talk back to one another while ignoring both Malph sisters. Allie responded, "Well, Wanda. We're all discussing about Ashley X's idea of changing the city."

Wanda questioned, "You mean that dude who gives us lots of candy and money?"

Allie was immediately confused and asked, "What do you mean? Are you saying that guy's giving you lots of candy and money?" Gene pointed to Ashley X.

Wanda enthusiastically replied, "Yeah, him! He's such an awesome dudel!"

Allie pointed out, "Well...that's crazy....."

Butch immediately approached the gang and said, "Well that's nothing compared to what I saw a few weeks ago!"

The gang stopped arguing among themselves and paid attention to what Butch had to say. Eddie questioned him cautiously, "What are you talking about Butch?"

Butch simply answered, "Things are not always what they seem....like Dean Clarkson for example."

Elvis replied in disgust, "C'mon Butch we already heard your wild stories....like the 'yard of no return' and they turn out bogus!"

Butch said, "Say what you want, Elvis! But this time I have student who witnessed an incident with me." He quickly brought Denim with him. Denim was extremely hesitant to meet up with the gang knowing how easily Allie knew Eddie could beat her up.

Allie sighed in disgust, "C'mon, dudes and dudettes, what a bunch of crap!"

Danni immediately interrupted and said, "Well let's wait, Allie! Let's first hear what these two have to say...then we'll see if their accounts are really valid."

Allie with the same disgust and sighed, "Okay....spill it out ass-holes..."

Butch began speaking with his usual eerie and creepy story telling voice, "It was a couple of days ago on a Tuesday if I recall....”

Gene remarked, “You recall?!? It was just two days ago…”

Butch just continued anyways, “…that I was usually hanging around the corners of the city where no student notices the subtle movements around the College campus..."

Allie harshly interrupted, "Just get to the point, Butch..."

Denim continued the discussion, "I noticed a group of dudes holding a duct taped Dean Clarkson to a white van where they sped off...and now look at Dean Clarkson now, he's never been the same." Denim began to cry...

Jane nervously and shakingly responded, "Dudes who took Clarkson? Who's to say they might get us?"

Allie boldly dismissed this story, "That's the biggest bunch of craporama I've ever heard!"

Eddie questioned Allie, "Are you sure about that, Allie?"

Danni agreed with Eddie, "Let's add up the facts...Okay? The same day Ashley X had to go with Dean Clarkson, the dean according to Butch, was taken by a group of dudes....and now he never seems to punish Ashley X."

Elvis commented slowly, "Well...it does make sense...."

Before the gang and the others could think about the issue at hand, there came a sudden yelling cry of high school students. Wanda and Amy immediately ran to join their friends. Ashley X was seen yelling at the booth where the High School students were. Ashley X yelled with all of his being and said, "High School Students of Jefferson High! The end of being oppressed by College students has arrived!"

Elvis immediately asked Eddie, "Dude, what's going on?"

Eddie confused as the rest of the other College students simply said, "I don't know, Elvis dude...I really don't know..."

Ashley X continued his yelling, "The time to overthrow the mayor has arrived and to begin a revolution to help all student kind! Attack!"

Suddenly the High school students began fighting with the guards and pillaging the dancefloor. Ashley X casually and sarcastically continued, "And, Benny boy, don't you dare try to fight back with these younger kids or otherwise just wait 'til your parents hear you and Clarence beating up these defenseless younger adults."

The dancers on the dancefloor became mortified just simply watching the chaos ensuing between the High Schoolers and Clarence. The gang immediately joined up with Ashley X. Jane began to speak, "Are you wacko?!? Overthrowing the mayor?"

Ashley X did not face the gang and was more interested in seeing the progress of the 'revolution.' Ashley X responded, "Just think now you guys won't ever be disrespected by Ben ever again!" He yelled back to the High School kids, "Remember, my young army, I have money and candy for all of you if you succeed!"

Gene wailed, "Say it ain't so! Our city in the sheer madness of political chaos!"

Elvis elbowed Eddie and whispered, "You gotta do something, dude....he's taken it too far!"

Eddie whispered back, "Don't worry, Elvis, my man....I'll try to speak with him one on one about this..."

The gang continued with their frozen faces of amazement of their city which has become a war-zone.

After about 10 chminutes into the fighting, Ben received a glance from Ashley X and begins yelling at Clarence, "What the hell's going on here?"

Clarence tried to respond but began to stutter after realizing Ashley X's point on beating up any of the High Schoolers, "I...was....trying....I was..."

Ben harshly yelled back saying, "This type of animal behavior is inexcusable wait 'til your parents hear about this!" Clarence was quickly sent back to the kitchen. As the gang stood in wonder of what would happen next...Ashley X climbed to the top of the gang's booth.

Ashley X yelled and announced to the entire student population, "Today, my friends of Arnold's! No longer will anyone be treated unfairly because they are simply younger or newer than everyone else! Everyone will be treated with the same respect and therefore the former city Constitution will be eliminated!" Ashley X begins to rip up the old city constitution and the gang can hardly believe what they are seeing. "I don't want you guys to consider me King because that would go against the equality of all students...but rather call me Comrade Ashley X!" The students of the High School and the College except the gang began to cheer and holler for Ashley X. Danni immediately knew what government Ashley X was implying and she simply responded with, "Oh crap..."

Ashley X climbed to the top of Arnold's roof where even Gene was surprised by Ashley X's throwing ability. As the gang continued to watch Ashley X above, Allie quietly asked, "Eddie, is this for the best or not?"
Eddie simply responded, "I've got no idea...but I'll talk to him..."

As Ashley X was continuing his speech and promises to improve all of Arnold's... but he began to look at Eddie more differently. It may have been the features of his father alone, his cleverness, his kindness, or whatever it may be developed into a crush he knew Ashley X had for Danni. His eyes would move now and then to notice Danni, but she never noticed it. One thing for sure is that he definitely wanted to meet up with her and just her alone...

[Bea]

Chapter Seven: It's Just Danni and Ashley X Alone....

Location: Saturday 12 September 1985, 10:04am, the gang are outside the Pfhister Mall.

Elvis began insisting Eddie to speak with Ashley X, "Eddie, you really have to talk with him! I mean it's almost getting out of hand!"

Jane continued while getting ready to ride her bike back home, "Yeah, I'm not so sure if Ashley X's new playground change is for the best especially after what Danni told us."

Danni quickly added, "When Ashley X told everyone to call his 'comrade' it definitely implies he wants to institute some type of communist form of government on the playground!"

Allie also quickly added, "If you need help, Eddie, our dads can send in the reinforcements from M*A*S*H to take him down!"

Eddie comforted the gang, "Okay, okay. Danni, I think you should talk with him later this evening and remember he's a college student like all of us, not some mean dictator guy like Hector Con Carne our folks dealt with in the summer of 1961."

The rest of the gang sighed and wished Danni farewell and left, then suddenly Ashley X met up with Danni.

"Hi, Danni." said Ashley X somewhat surprised Danni was alone by herself without the rest of the gang. "What happened to the rest of the guys?"

Danni quickly tried to cover up the real reason, but responded nervously, "Oh they just had...to go home quickly...I thought I would at least wait up for you."

Ashley X was flattered and asked while Danni began speaking at the same time. They both said, "You wouldn't mind meeting up later tonight?" They both laughed because of it.

Ashley X said, "Sure I'll meet you at your home around 7 PM and we'll have dinner together at a restaurant, okay? My folks'll pick us up and drop us back home."

Danni was surprised by the gesture but agreed, "Sure, no problem....see you at 7!"

As Ashley X began to walk to his pick-up point (that was 2 blocks away)...Danni's mind was racing, she thought to herself 'How am I gonna do this? What should I say?' She began to think of this dinner as a formal political meeting with him since he knew that he had gained the ultimate power of the city. She knew the only way to make an impression and to hopefully turn things around were to talk with the only two UWM students who knew everything about etiquette, style, and impressions.

Danni walked up to the front doors of Third Street and hesitantly but politely said, "Hi, guys, how are you two today?"

Rob immediately snapped back, "Like....what do you want with us? Shouldn't you be wasting your time with that Ashley X loser....?"

Ashley C added, "Yeah! Like don't waste your breath on us; when you've been hanging around with an Ashley who dared to insult the rest of us."

Danni calmly yet appeared to plead to Ashley C and Rob, "But....I need your help..."

Ashley C and Rob laughed hysterically and said, "Scandalous!"

Rob said while continuing to laugh, "You need our help? Of course, you've always need our help when it comes to fashion and well.....hygiene.."

Ashley C continued with the insulting, "Like...you are so far beyond help....that not even Dick Clark can give you an average makeover!"

Ashley C and Rob continued to laugh and giggle.

Rob began to notice Danni's face when she had began pleading, "Wait...Ashley...wait....What do you need our help with so badly, Dannielle?"

Danni slowly began talking, "Well...I need to make a good impression to Ashley X"

Ashley C became infuriated, "Like what are you talking about! Help you to help that gorgodemon?!? Like, I don't think so...."

Danni began pleading again, "But guys, the future of the city's at stake!"

Rob replied, "So...we always have our dad's money to help us out if there is any trouble!"

Danni pleaded again, "You gotta help me....I'll do anything...."

Ashley C and Rob looked at each other and smiled and said together, "Scandalous!"

Ashley C said, "Okay, Dannielle, we'll help you prepare for Ashley X, but you have to help us out to destroy him!"

Danni shocked, confused, and upset said, "But Ashley X has been kind to us....I can't simply destroy him!"

Ashley C harshly replied, "Look, Cunningham! Like, you either choose our help to help out the playground OR help Ashley X and leave the city as it is. It's your choice!"

Danni's mind was rattled and completely lost in confusion. Should she betray a friendship to help all of Milwaukee OR honor a friendship and let the city go to political pieces?

Rob asked, "Like we don't have all day, bitch....we're waiting, Cunningham..."

It was now, 7:00pm and instead of Ashley X's parents picking Danni up, it was Big Rob himself driving but he would remain quiet all throughout the trip. Ashley X arrived at the Cunnigham's doorstep and rang the doorbell; he was dressed up almost as if it were a date.

Danni was dressed up in a pink 50s-ish dress, looked smooth, and learned the rules of etiquette by Ashley C and Rob. Danni closed the door behind her and joined Ashley X walking toward his car, she yelled back, "I'll be back around 8:30, Mom and Dad!" Danni and Ashley X both sat in the back seat and closed the door.

Danni began to speak, "I thought your Mom and Dad would be driving us to a bar."

Ashley X quickly off guard said, "Oh!...This is my Dad's friend Rob because my parents weren't able to drive tonight."

Richie began to speak to Big Rob, "How's it going, sir? Why don't you take your friend's son and my daughter to Becky's Jazz Bar."

Big Rob didn't respond at all and ignored him. Ashley X quickly comforted Richie, "Oh don't worry about him, Mr Cunningham. He doesn't really speak much."

Danni quietly asked, "You don't mind if we go to the Becky's Jazz Bar on First Street, do you?"

Ashley X graciously replied, "Why I was thinking the same thing!"

After about 20 minutes, they arrived at Becky's Jazz Bar and sat at a private booth facing each other on either side of the booth. Danni was constantly watching her behavior and etiquette to make sure she was having good manners. Before arriving, Danni and Ashley X were talking about the college, TV, music and other topics not associated with the city situation. Danni knew that it was time to get to business and it was enough chit-chat...she had to talk about for what she planned for. Ashley X on the other hand, saw this as opportunity to get closer with Danni, his mind was in his 'crush world' thinking of just Danni and him.

Their main dishes came and Danni was about to begin. She was nervous, but he knew it had to be done. She slowly began, "Ashley, what do you have planned for the playground now?"

Ashley X not thinking about the direction of the conversation said, "Well, I was thinking that I could improve the playground for all. Someone has to take a leadership role. I mean that Ben has no idea how to run a drive-in."

Danni nervously continued again, "But don't you think that what you are planning for is a bit extreme? I mean you're not planning to write a constitution to protect a person's rights on the city! And that just isn't right!"

Ashley X, still caught in his 'crush world', said, "Danni, Danni, don't worry about it! It's not like I'm a tyrannical monster or anything! You should know that more than anyone."

Danni still focused on the playground situation, "I'm sorry but I can't accept that though! In today's world, things have to be written down and not simply spoken because the kids of the playground have gone through too much to accept what just one person says."

Ashley X wasn't focusing on Danni's slight anger over the situation he was still in his 'crush world.' He noticed that Danni missed wiping spaghetti sauce off his cheek with her napkin. He leaned over and took his finger to wipe the sauce off. He then leaned back into his booth seat and licked the sauce right off his finger. Danni's eyes bulged out.....she couldn't believe what she just saw, but he tried to compose himself back to the city discussion. Danni suddenly noticed one of the ceiling tiles lift up and moved away just above Ashley X. It was Ashley C and Rob hiding on top of the ceiling tiles, who had a huge bowl of marinara sauce besides them. They began to snicker and giggle knowing what their plan was...

Danni became even more nervous knowing that this is what Ashley C and Rob have planned for since he decided to take their help. She began to speak with Ashley X and got right to the point, "Ashley! We just have to settle this playground problem! The students need some type of..... written promise that they won't be forced to anything harsh or extreme."

Ashley X calmly said, "Sure, Danni, it makes sense.....lean over a little bit there is something near you left eye." Danni didn't know or realize there was anything near her left eye, and there wasn't anything near her left eye at all. Nevertheless, Danni closed her eyes where she expected Ashley X to remove whatever it was on her face.

Eddie and Allie suddenly came into Becky's Jazz Bar and they couldn't believe their eyes! Danni's eyes were closed and Ashley X tried to give her a kiss. Ashley C and Rob suddenly gasped at noticing that Ashley X was trying to give Danni a kiss but just when Ashley X was 2 inches away from giving her a kiss....Ashley X's cell phone rang. He immediately became frustrated and leaned back on his booth seat and answered the call. Meanwhile, Danni oblivious to what was happening just sat back, opened her eyes, and tried to remove whatever he thought was near her eye. Danni asked Ashley X, "Did you get whatever it was that was near my eye?"

Ashley X frustrated with the cell phone call said, "No...." and sighed harshly.

Ashley C whispered to Rob and said, "This is where we dump it." Rob whispered, "Scandalous!"

Ashley C whispered, " in....3....2.....1...." Ashley X was too involved with his phone conversation to notice Danni trying to warn him to move away.

Then SPLAT!!! SHOOSH!!!! Ashley X was completely drenched with marinara sauce. He violently screamed, "What the?!? How in the hell?!?" Ashley C and Rob quickly placed the ceiling tile back and got out of the location fast while they continued to laugh and giggle throughout the night. Eddie and Allie just continuously watched the whole scene without blinking. Ashley X just continued to rant on and ON! Danni couldn't help it but she started to laugh over the prank Ashley X experienced.

Ashley X quickly noticed Danni's snickering and angrily said, "Oh! And I suspect this is funny?!? Goodbye, Dannielle! Just forget about our good friendship together! After helping you and giving you guys candy....and all those fun times together! Yeah....some friend you are...." Ashley X violently stormed out of the restaurant were Big Rob picked him up and the car sped away into the night.

Danni felt an overwhelming sense of guilt and despair. She knew that she would never had done that to anybody especially a friend of hers. She quickly paid the bill and slowly and depressingly walked out of the doors. She left the bar before Eddie and Allie could have a chance to talk or comfort Danni. When they ran out of the doors...Danni was already gone. She was already a block away from Becky's, he not only felt guilty and remorseful but also felt disgusted with herself....she never really betrayed a friend like that, not even towards her older brother R.J. Her mind was constantly filled with thoughts if saving the playground was really and truly worth a broken friendship. She finally made it home and to her bedroom, she turned off the lights, and just collapsed on her bed. She knew her betrayal toward Ashley X was everything on what she stood against. She began to question herself and her character as she stared into night through the window. Danni couldn't sleep all through the night feeling sorry and extremely guilty. He wondered how was she ever going to face and apologize to Ashley X tomorrow?

[Bea]

Chapter Eight: The Other Side of Ashley X Comes Out...

Location: UWM, Monday 15 Sepmeber 1985, 7:30am, Danni is the only one in the classroom before class starts while Prof. Jerome is busy with faculty meetings.

As Danni just continued to sit silently all she could hear were just the footsteps of the faculty walking back and forth down the hallway and....her thoughts. She looked exhausted since she was awake all through the night thinking of what happened that night. Unexpectedly, Prof. Jerome arrived and was surprised by Danni's presence, "Well good morning, Danni! It's a pleasant surprise to see you here, but my solar watch tells me you're half-an-hour early. Is there something wrong?"

Danni melancholy sighed and said, "Oh...nothing, Prof. Jerome....well, maybe you can help me with something..."

Prof. Jerome instantly became enthusiastic to help one of her favorite students out, "Sure, Danni! That's what I'm here for...."

Danni slowly continued, "Well....I have a question if you had a friend for example who seemed to be mistreating a huge other group of people would you still support your friend or betray that friend to help the huge group of people?"

Prof. Jerome was surprised by Danni's dilemma, "Wow, Danni. That's a difficult one.....but you have to do what's right and as for the friend you have to really decide if it's worth it because you only know how close the friendship is...."

Danni nervously sighed, "Thanks, Prof. Jerome...." The advice Prof. Jerome gave Danni only made her more confused, it was questioning the foundation of her friendship toward Ashley X.

Without warning, the bell rang, and SAL 4000 stated, "It's 8:00am students of UWM. It's now time for you to attend class." All Danni could do was just nervously sit back in his chair.

The students of Prof. Jerome's class began to fill in the classroom, but just before SAL 4000 could close the class door at exactly 8:05 AM Ashley X's foot blocked the door and slowly walked to his desk. The students of the classroom, except the gang began to snicker and giggle especially Rob and Ashley C.

Eddie questioned Danni, "Yo, Danni! What's going on? Why is everybody laughing?"

Allie continued, "Yeah, Danni! Did something happen last night?"

Eddie and Allie began to whisper secretly to the others of the gang about what happened last night.

Rob suddenly busted into laughter while Danni was just sinking down in her chair. Rob said, "What happened last night?!? AH HA HA! Like Ashley X was the main dish in Becky's Jazz Bat last night!" The class immediately busted into loud laughter.

Ashley C continued, "Yeah that marinara sauce really went well with your sense of style last night!" Both Rob and Ashley C then squealed, "Scandalous!"

Rob added, "Yeah and thanks to dad's help, I've just placed Ashley X's picture all over the campus! Thanks for your help, Weber, we couldn't have do it without you or your homeys....hehehe..."

Ashley X tried to forget what happened last night when she entered the classroom, but when Ashley C mentioned Danni was involved he became enraged and coldly stared at Danni. She was just sinking further and further down her chair and couldn't bear to turn around and see the look on Ashley X's face.

After the gang heard the details of what happened last night, Allie stood up on top of her desk with a fist in her right hand and yelled, "Okay, folks! Any of you who give another giggle will be smiling with Eddie's fist in it!" The class became instantly quiet.

Prof. Jerome immediately asked the class to settle down, "Quiet, class! Quiet! That's enough! Ashley X doesn't deserve to be teased like that!"

Eddie wanted Danni to begin apologizing to Ashley X, but the class already started....and she also thought it would be better for Ashley X to cool off since his face was stern and cold.

[Bea]

Chapter Nine: The Reconciliation with Ashley X...

Location: Arnold's Drive-In & Disco, Monday 15 September 1985, 4:00pm, the gang has met just outside.

The gang was talking about what happened last night between Danni and Ashley X. Elvis commented, "Danni?!? How could you do that to Ashley X?"

Danni still disgusted with herself said, "I don't know, Dude! I was worried about the future of our city...I couldn't just let it slip by...that's why I had to make a deal with Ashley C and Rob."

Gene cried out, "Say it ain't so! A friendship that's been ripped apart by the seams!"

Elvis said, "You gotta talk to him, Eddie...and work things out."

Eddie sighed and replied, "That's just what I was planning to do." Eddie began the long, slow walk to the park bench where Ashley X was sitting half-saddened and half-enraged of everything that occurred.

Eddie slowly approached Ashley X and quietly said, "Yo, Ashley.....?"

Ashley X was secretly enraged but he put on sadden face and said, "Yeah, Eddie.....what have you come for...?"

Eddie took a deep breath and sadly said, "Well....I don't know how to say this and how to express it....but Danni wanted to say that she's sorry for everything. No friend or student deserves to be betrayed like that. I can understand if you don't want to speak with me anymore...."

Ashley X saw this as an opportunity to get Eddie back since he still had a crush on Danni even though she betrayed him. Ashley X sadly continued, "Well....Eddie, it's not that I don't like you or your posse....it's just how can I make sure you won't hurt me again like that?"

Eddie desperate for his friendship and trust back pleaded, "I never would let Danni do that again! Never! I would do anything you want me to do...."

Ashley X deceitfully knew this was the moment he had waited for....Eddie was in his hands...

Ashley X continued his sad fake appearance and slowly said, "Well do you promise not to constantly question me about ruling the city?"

Eddie was torn between saving the city of Milwaukee and saving a friendship but he was desperate to fix his friendship with Ashley X. Eddie sighed again and said, "Yeah....I promise not to question your power..."

Ashley X quickly became ecstatically happy and turned around, "Thanks so much, Eddie my man" He gave Eddie a big hug and offered Eddie a gift. "Eddie, I want you to have this...in remembrance of our new friendship!" The gift was a bracelet...a similar one he had given to Dean Clarkson....

Eddie surprised by his kindness said, "Wow! But I feel like I owe you something....I mean I'm the one who betrayed you!"

Ashley X simply replied, "Don't worry, Eddie. You'll help me out more than you'll ever know...." Eddie put the metal bracelet on and admired it. He thought of it now as a symbol of their new never-to-be-broken-again friendship.

Ashley X and Eddie were happy walking together back toward the gang. The gang and Ashley X began to head for the dancefloor. Eddie now thought that things were finally gonna be okay now.....

[Bea]

Chapter Ten: About Milwaukee's Secret...

Location: Tuesday 16 September 1985, 12:00pm, the gang except Eddie meets near the basketball court.

The previous night, Danni decided to and did not complain about Ashley X ruling the city. Despite she and Ashley X having restored their friendship, the gang continued to offer their help to Ashley X because Danni's guilt was difficult to get over. By now, one-third of Milwaukee was being used to pump out oil with 2 huge oil wells and even though no playground equipment was torn down, the playing area was crowded. Ashley X was delighted in knowing the profits he was making with these oil wells and how the school board and students would not stop him.

While Eddie was with Ashley X on top of the gang's outdoor table (where their parents used to sit in their College years), the rest of the gang were talking at the basketball court looking up at the two of them. Elvis tried to shoot a three-pointer with the basketball but was knocked down by another student because of the crowded playground. Elvis commented, "I can't believe how crowded this place is!"

Jane added, "I can't even walk twenty feet without someone bumping into me!"

Anton Lawson knocked into Jane while playing tag and teasingly said, "Out of the way, Janey!"

Allie took a big step and stared face to face with Lawson, "You want to say that again, Lawsuck!"

Lawson snapped back at Allie, "Don't look at me, Alison! Your buttlicking friend can't even fix this sardine house of a city!"

Allie was just about to attack Lawson when Gene grabbed and restrained her. She violently tried to get out of Gene's grasp, "Let me go, Gene! I'm finally gonna let Eddie fix his mouth...I've had enough of his cheek!"

Elvis tried to cool Allie off, "Whoa, bummer, Allie! Chill....just chill..."

Allie interrupted, "But he called me Alison!"

Danni immediately pointed out, "Well...Lawson haves a point..."

Allie violently yelled, "What?!? Calling me by my real name?!?"

Danni in an apologetic voice said, "No...No... Allie....I mean how crowded this town is...."

Jane and the Philips twins all agreed. Allie cooled down a bit and replied, "Yeah....Lawson is finally, for the first time, right about something...." and Gene let go of Allie.

Elvis proposed, "Well let's see what the others think about Ashley X..."

Danni agreed, "Yeah....that's a totally awesome idea, Elvis....we'll see what the popular majority of the students think about Ashley X! I'll use my super-sensitive microphone and earpiece to clearly hear what others think without our influence of questions."

Gene cried out, "Such deceit! An invasion of privacy!"

Danni replied, "It's not such a bad thing....I mean it's for the good of the city, right?"

The rest of the four agreed, "Right!" The five friends broke up to speak with all the students of the campus. Danni decided to hear what the Freshmen were saying about Ashley X by using her super-sensitive microphone invention while she could maintain her safety on the other side of the kindergartner playground fence. Allie went to see Francis, the hustler kid. Gene decided to talk with Kurst. Elvis decided to speak with Denim and Jane went to see Cornchip girl.

**********

Danni could hear crystal clear all of the conversations the Freshmen were having. She finally heard another voice who said, "Look, dudes! A gift from Ashley X again! He wanted to give us some more candy!" The others all chanted "Candy! Candy! Candy!" Danni continued to listen in.

**********

Allie, looking bored, walked over to Francis, the Hustler kid. The Hustler kid elbowed her and whispered, "Hey Allie! I'll sell ya 2 cans of silly string for only a buck! How 'bout it?"

Allie quickly assured him she was not going to buy anything, "Hey look! I didn't come here to buy anything... only to talk."

The Hustler kid replied, "Sure, yeah...watcha wanna talk about?"

Allie casually asked, "What do you think about Ashley X ruling the city? Isn't it wack? I mean just look at how over swamped the city is!"

The Hustler kid was surprised and said, "Crazy?!? You don't know crazy...Allie! I mean since Ashley X has been ruling the city, my business has been through the roof!"

Allie was even more surprised than Hustler kid, "What are you talking about? I mean, I'm talking about the crowded parts of town since these oil wells have been here just look at the place....thanks to Dean Clarkson..." She ended with disgust.

Hustler kid carelessly said, "Hey, Allie! That's not my job....Right now business is booming and I don't have time for other things..."

Allie walked away, sighed and ended by saying "Yo....thanks, HK..."

****

Gene approached Kurst, who was sitting underneath a tree getting ready to eat the dozen brownies she stole from the cafeteria.

Gene kindly approached Kurst, "Yo, dudette! May I ask you a question?"

Kurst was annoyed that Gene interrupted her eating, but was willing to talk and harshly said, "Sure, Elvis, what is it?"

Gene politely asked, "Have you felt uneasy or unsatisfied by the ruling of Ashley X on this city?" and then added "And I'm not Elvis, I'm Gene."

Kurst was busy scarfing down a brownie when she replied, "Whatever!....I could care less..."

Gene, again, politely spoke, "But seriously, dudette....you must have known some change around here...."

Kurst, frustrated and trying to get back to her eating, said, "Look Gene! The only thing I've noticed is that the prices on the cafeteria food have went down a lot! That's it!"

Gene graciously said, "Thanks for your time, Kurst! I greatly appreciate it from the depths of my heart and soul." and soon began to walk away.

Kurst simply said, "Yeah, yeah....whatever...." and immediately indulged herself in finishing the brownies.

*****

Denim was busy hiding in the bushes and taking notice of how the Diggers were busy around the 2 oil wells, "Ah! This is going to be extra moist! Those *******s are always having their head in the ground....wait 'til I tell Prof. Jerome about them messing with UWM property."

Before Denim could completely turn around and sneak off to meet
Prof. Jerome, Elvis stood right in her way. Denim disgusted said, "Oh it's you, Gene! Get out of my way before I report you to the Dean!" Denim began to walk away from Elvis.

Elvis sarcastically replied, "Oh really? Just wait 'til I report you to Eddie and Allie..." and then added "And I'm not Gene, I'm Elvis."

Denim froze and her eyes bulged out. Denim completely changed her attitude with nervousness, she turned around, came back, and said, "Sure....a....dude....what do you want?"

Elvis glanced over and said, "What do you know and feel about Ashley X?"

When Denim heard that name, she could wait to tell everything on how frustrated she was about him. "Ashley X, Ashley X! I've tried everything to get him a detention but the staff look the other way! H gets away with everything from gum chewing to even insulting the staff!" Denim begins to bitterly cry... "I just can't stand how he it does it! Treating our College staff as if they're nothing! Nothing I tell you!"

Elvis felt creeped out and slowly, step-by-step, walks away, "Okay.....yeah....thanks, Denim...." Denim continued to cry like a baby on the ground.

*****

Jane soon began to approach Cornchip girl, "Hi ya, Cornchip Girl! How is everything?"

Cornchip girl replies in her usual bubbly, cute self, "I'm doing great, Jane! When can we play the Land & Sea game again? That's if our moms can ever agree on anything." She began to giggle.

Jane said, "Well....have you noticed any changes you dislike or like since Ashley X has been ruling the city?"

Cornchip girl answered, "Ashley X? He's been so kind to me....there's nothing wrong with him."

Jane slightly puzzled says, "Well geez...okay....I guess I'll.....um....see you later."

Jane confused and surprised by Cornchip girl's answer slowly walked away.

*********

The five met back at the basketball court and discuss about their conversations. They began to notice dark clouds approaching the sky but they didn't concern themselves with it. Elvis began to summarize what they collected, "Well, gang....it looks for the most part everyone is happy with Ashley X ruling the city. I can't really find anything wrong with Ashley X."

Danni added "I agree with Elvis....I tried using my super-sensitive microphone but nobody said anything bad about him. Well, except of course Rob and Ashley C...."

Gene interrupts the flow of the conversation, "Dudes....why are we looking for something so bad with Ashley X? Being made of flesh we all have our weaknesses.....should we, being friends of Ashley X, really be dwelling on the bad aspects of him?"

The other four begin to feel bad and guilty for pursuing the question on determining if Ashley X was hurting the city.

Gene continued, "Hasn't he shown kindness toward each one of us?"

Elvis replied, feeling guilty as like the rest of three, "You're right, bro....this is our friend...we shouldn't be doing this...."

As the five began to rethink about their behaviors, suddenly a new kid from around the corner of the school showed up. The new kid immediately caught Allie's eyes, the new kid was a Freshman who was wearing a leather jacket and leather jeans. This new kid had the motorcycle Harley Davison biker-look. All Allie could do was just stare, "Wow! Dude...look at him! He's got it all!" The new kid had dark sunglasses, leather booths, gelled hair, and even a tattoo which reminded Allie of Eddie. The other four and most of the playground watched in shock. His appearance definitely showed he was the biggest and baddest
student in UWM and to the students of UWM....probably was the baddest student ever in Third Street. Allie immediately ran over to him and to her it was like meeting an idol of what she wanted to become. Allie knew that this new kid was the ultimate bad boy. Ashley X could care less of who the new kid was but Eddie stood on top of the bench table wondering who he was. Eddie wanted to meet this kid, but he felt obligated to stay to help Ashley X because of his guilt.

The rest of the four joined up with Allie. Allie couldn't say a word, she was completely star-struck. Elvis noticed Allie trying to say something but he began talking anyway to the new kid, "Yo, dude! How are you? Are you new here?"

The new kid casually but smoothly answered, "I'm okay....and it's my first day..."

Dean Clarkson with his soul-terrifying piercing eyes noticed this new kid and was about to walk over to him since he was wearing clothes a bit like Eddie's dress code, but before he could take 5 steps she received a painful shock from his metal bracelet. The dean looked up to where Ashley X was and saw that Ashley X stuck his middle finger up at him to not interfere. Dean Clarkson quietly walked back.

Danni asked the biker-looking kid, "It's great to you. May we ask your name?"

The biker-looking kid said, "You can just call me Tyler."

Jane curiously asked, "Um....what's your last name?"

Tyler condescending looked at Jane and said to the gang, "Just call me.....Tyler." Jane immediately began to shake in her shoes by his look and by not seeing Tyler's eyes through the seemingly impetrating sunglasses.

Elvis asked, "Who is your teacher and where do you live? We haven't heard about you all day..."

Tyler, with his tough attitude, said, "How about you let me worry about them...."

Danni with an apologetic voice, "We just wanted to know more about you...."

Tyler replied, "Not to be mean, dudes and dudettes....but I got to take care of some business..."

Allie finally came back to her senses and elbowed Elvis. "Elvis, he's as awesome as Eddie."

Elvis confusedly said, "Yeah....um, I guess so...more like mysterious..."

Allie yelled to Tyler while he was leaving the gang, "Yo, Tyler, wait up!" Allie soon caught up with Tyler and followed him. She continued her fascination with him by asking several questions to him. Back in the Bench table, Eddie became even more curious in knowing who Tyler was, especially when Eddie saw how fascinated Allie was with Tyler. Butch quietly approached the remaining four of the gang (Danni, Jane, Gene and Elvis).

Butch whispered to the gang, "Hey, gang...I heard you guys are trying to find something bizarre while Ashley X has ruled the vity of Milwaukee."

Elvis quickly brushed Butch off since the four of them decided not to think badly about Ashley X, "Forget about it, Butch! We don't care to hear about it, besides Ashley X has been helping the city...."

Butch replied, "Oh really? I guess you guys don't want to hear about the free money the school gives to the students every week."

The four of them were surprised and Elvis reacted, "WHAT?!? Free money?...you mean dinero, moolah, cha-ching, the green stuff?"

Butch casually responded, "Uh huh! Sure....I’m surprised you guys didn't already know about it."

Elvis still in shock said, "Know about it....the 6 of us often got any such money!"

Butch said, "Well, the dean sends a check to our parents every week."

Danni acknowledged what Butch said and concluded, "Knowing how our folks are....our folks must have already invested the money for our future."

Jane disappointing sighed, "Aw bummer! Looks like we will never get our hands on our money now."

Gene wailed, "Alas! The stuff we could purchase!"

Danni thought of an idea and she knew just who to talk to. "I highly suggest we discuss with the person who knows more about College matters than anyone else does."

Elvis caught on and knew what Danni was thinking, "Let's all pay a visit to Menlo."

The four of them went into the school and into Menlo's office. Menlo was not pleased at all with their interruption, "And what do you rambling, time-wasting punks want?"

Elvis demanded, "We want to know more about money this school has been sending to our folks."

Menlo acted as if he knew nothing about it and harshly said, "Look! I'm trying to create the best computerized filing database this school has ever seen! I have not scheduled interruptions, like you, in my planner!"

Danni rushed over to Menlo's computer and in a blur, of 2 seconds, finished typing. She proposed this deal, "Now you can either provide us the information we seek OR expect this instantly programmed virus to obliterate your entire database in....oh, counting from 20 seconds..."

Menlo started to panic, "You wouldn't dare! I spent 3 weeks making the most perfect organized database!" He noticed the counter on the computer screen ticking.....10....9....

Elvis and Danni both asked Menlo, "So what's your decision Menlo?"

Menlo was beginning to sweat and he was terrified seeing his work about to be eliminated in just a few seconds. The computer timer kept passing....8....7....6... Menlo knew that the information they wanted was very confidential and Dean Clarkson gave Menlo his absolute trust in keeping it a secret from the rest of the campus (students, parents, faculty, and the school board.) If the public knew of the secret funds that businesses have given to UWM, it would be a huge scandal devastating to the college and Dean Clarkson.

Danni with a sarcastic attitude said, "We're waiting Menlo." The timer was now... 5....4....3....

Menlo was worried that if he told them about this information, that eventually Dean Clarkson would find out and he would lose his secretary job. The thing he loved doing at school... Menlo was being mentally being torn left and right. On one hand, was his finest work about to be destroyed while on the other was the possibility of losing his job. His eyes began to deeply stare at the computer monitor. The timer was approaching 2...1.... He reluctantly and explosively yelled, "Okay! Okay! I'll tell you! Just don't...." The timer approached zero and the intense stress caused Menlo to faint in his office chair.

Gene cried out, "Danni, what have you done? Such a cruel deed when he was to reveal the truth!"

Danni smirked and said, "Don't worry, dude! I can recover it...like that!" To shock of Jane, Gene amd Elvis all of Menlo's work was recovered as if the virus never existed.

Jane sighed, "Oh great! Menlo's fainted and we can't even get an answer from him."

Gene calmly reassured the three, "Don't worry, dude, dudettes and twin bro, I know what fragrance will trigger the revival of his soul."

The three began to give a confused look to each other, but Gene knew exactly what to do. Gene looked at Menlo's table and slightly opened a small bottle of white-out. The smell of white-out made Menlo's nose alert and suddenly Menlo woke up as if he got up from a pleasant dream. Menlo sighed, "Ahhh!....The wonderful aroma of the ultimate office supply...white-out!"

Elvis quickly asked, "Okay, Menlo! Spill it out....we want to know about the money this school keeps sending to our foks."

Menlo noticed that everything was recovered on his computer by glancing at the computer screen. He sighed and whispered, "Before I tell you guys anything...come with me to the filing room so no one will hear us."

Gene ignorantly and loudly responded, "But what is of such secrecy?"

Elvis put his hand over his younger (by 5 minutes) twin brother
Gene's mouth, "Shhhh! Quiet, bro! This is gotta be big!" He looked over at Menlo, "Okay let's go!" The four joined Menlo in the filing room. Menlo locked the door behind him when all of them entered and turned off the lights, the room was about half the size of Menlo's office. The filing room was filled with 6 foot tall filing cabinets.

Elvis asked Menlo, "What's the big secret, dude?"

Menlo took his flashlight and opened a locked filing shelf; he went to the back of the shelf and pulled up a file that was stamped in dark, red ink labeled, 'Very Confidential! For Nobody's Eyes, By Order Of the deans of UWM' Menlo turned around, read the file with the flashlight, and faced the four. He whispered, "First you must promise me that this discussion will not go outside this room!"

Gene brushed off Menlo's seriousness, "C'mon...you must be joking..."

Menlo gave Gene a stern look, "Do you want to know or not? I'm already putting all of us in very serious expelling danger here!"

Elvis looked at Danni, jane and Gene and looked back at Menlo, "Okay....we won't take it outside of the room..."

Menlo looked again at the file and said, "The money this school gives to the parents is not the form of any type of refund. This school has been secretly associated with powerful corporations that...well....as this file appears....to have" Menlo was reading the file but was unsure of the accuracy of the document "well...'donated' hundreds of thousands....possibly even millions of dollars to this school."

The four of the gang were shocked simply hearing millions of dollars but visualizing the money sent their minds daydreaming. Menlo continued, "This document does not seem to have all the information on why the funds are being given to this school."

Suddenly there was a knock on the door. It was Dean Clarkson, Menlo and the four instantly froze. They knew they were in big time trouble if Dean Clarkson found out. Menlo hurriedly tried to put away the file, and place it back where it was before the file cabinet was opened. Dean Clarkson could be heard on the other side of the door saying, "Louise, Louise, this door won't budge! Get me Hank now!" He faced the door and yelled to whoever was in the filing room, "Look this is not the place for romantic faculty relationships! Open this door NOW!"

Jane and Gene were petrified, Jane whispered, "What do we do? What do we do?!?"

Menlo told the four to calm down and that he could get them out of it. Menlo said to the four, "Just relax and don't say a word! I'll be able to get you guys out of here!" Jane and Gene gulped in fear.

Hank finally opened the door from the outside. He noticed the four and Menlo, "Why, what are you kids doing here? And with the lights out? Are they working or not?"

Dean Clarkson immediately walked inside and loudly spoke at Menlo, "Menlo,...haven't I told you not to take students into the filing cabinet room!"

Menlo was scared not knowing what Dean Clarkson might do just gulped and said, "Well...I....just tried to inform these four about their detention records....and these four didn't make-up one detention a year ago." The four looked at Menlo in frustration and couldn't believe that this was his plan.

Dean Clarkson sighed with relief, "Well, fine! Prof. Jerome will take the four of you to detention that will be served for the rest of the week." Elvis and Danni gave Menlo an upset look, while Gene and Jane were still scared not knowing what else could happen.

Hank soon took the four to the cafeteria for their detention with Menlo walking by them. Dean Clarkson walked completely into the filing room and in the corner of his eye noticed the lock on the filing cabinet (where Menlo looked up the file) was not locked. He approached and observed the unlocked lock...

Hank arrived at Prof. Jerome's homeroom and dropped the four and Menlo off. The four and Menlo knew that it was going to take a while for Prof. Jerome to arrive since Hank would be talking with her. The four sat impatiently at thier desks and they were all still upset with Menlo. Elvis started to talk, "Thanks a lot Menlo! Now we have to sit here and miss the rest of our week."

Menlo replied sympathetically, "I'm sorry, dudes...but how else was I going to take Dean Clarkson's attention away from you simply being inside the filing room?"

The four understood Menlo's point and the four of them responded, "Yeah you're right....sorry...."

Menlo began to walk away back to his office when Elvis interrupted him before Menlo could reach the homeroom doors, "Yo, Menlo! Why did you help us there? I mean you could of simply got us in bigger trouble."

Menlo lightly replied, "Well....one time Eddie helped me and my friends.....and I felt it was only necessary to repay a big favor." Menlo then walked through the cafeteria doors and walked back. The four were surprised by Menlo's kindness. Even though they were missing out on the rest of the week, they all looked at their situation optimistically and they were content since they knew it could have been worse......a lot worse....

Meanwhile outside, Allie was enjoying Tyler's company. The students outside had never seen Allie so happy and excited since she started dating Eddie. Allie was still constantly fascinated talking with Tyler about his experiences and his advice on being a tough kid. Allie was so fascinated with Tyler that she didn't even realize that Gene, Jane, Danni and Elvis were not outside. Ashley X was enjoying every minute of Eddie being his
'homeboy' by constantly using Eddie's guiltiness to help him in ruling the city but yet he was still able to be kind and generous to Eddie since Danni still had a crush on him. Eddie was now not really focusing on Ashley X or his guiltiness anymore because he noticed Allie spending a LOT of time with Tyler throughout the day, more so than with his gang of friends or with anyone else for that matter. Eddie began to feel deeply discouraged about the possibility of ever having a closer relationship with Allie, his heart began to sink deeper and deeper in despair and sadness...

[Bea]

Chapter Eleven: Rob and Ashley C's Confrontation

Location: UWM, Wednesday 16th September 1985, 10:00am, English has just started and the class is seated and ready.

Despite the attempts of Elvis, Danni, Gene and Jane trying to alert Eddie and Allie about the College sending money to their parents, they have both been too preoccupied to listen to their discovery. Eddie continued to help Ashley X, yet still his heart was aching over seeing Allie constantly talk and be with Tyler. Allie enjoyed Tyler's company all the time, she was so preoccupied with Tyler that she did not really notice she was starting to lose touch with the gang. Throughout the couple of days that passed, Ashley C and Rob noticed how often Allie was seen with Tyler. The two (who's fathers were roommates in College) would soon unleash another plan up their sleeves that would damage Allie, Ashley X, and Eddie's friendships!

Prof. Tribianni (Might be Joey's father, don't ask) started announcing, "Good morning, everybody! It's such a wonderful day right now, but I heard that there might be thunderstorms but that doesn't mean our education has to be at a standstill! It's time, class, for you to present your book reports!" The class groaned and even though the class had completed their reports, still they did not want to present.

Prof. Tribianni enthusiastically responded to the moans, "Students! Have positive energy in this classroom! It won't be that bad! Let's start with....Edmund Weber."

Eddie went in front of the classroom and began to speak about his book report on the story of Treasure Island which Prof. Tribianni had assigned for him. Eddie spoke but with no enthusiasm because his mind was focused about Allie rather than just some book. Rob saw this as a great time to tease Allie while the class was distracted with Eddie's presentation. Rob whispered to Allie (who was seating diagonally in front and left of Rob), "Wow, Allie! I'm surprised you can focus on the presentation much less anything else since that Tyler bad boy appeared." Rob made two facial expression kisses and began to giggle. Ashley C soon paid attention to Rob and Allie.

Allie gave a hostile face and harshly whispered back to Rob, "Look, Big mouth! I'm not that interested in Tyler, okay?!? Sheesh, leave me alone!"

Ashley C raised his eyebrows, made a quick smirk, and whispered to Allie, "Like whatever, Allie. You know and we know that you have something going on with Tyler. I mean, like, c'mon now, you've been with him for like for over 2 days straight! He's attractive I'll give you that, but he's definitely not a boy of high station."

Allie became more angry but still whispered since she did not want to make a scene, "I ain't a girlfriend of Tyler's and I'm gonna get you and Rob if you don't stop, Ashley C!"

Ashley X began to listen in on their conversation and he secretly was happy that things were working out as he planned...

Rob raised his voice from whispering to a quiet voice, "It's all over the campus, Alison! That you and Tyler are more than just friends..." He began to giggle harder and continued, "I'm sure you two talk hours of blue collar work like changing oil, pumping air into tires, and comparing each other's body graffiti."

Prof. Tribianni noticed the heated conversation between Rob, Ashley C and Allie, interrupted Eddie's presentation, and looked at 3 who were disrupting the class, "Would you people like to tell me what the conversation is about?"

Rob stood up from his desk and said, "I would like totally love to, Prof. Tribinanni!" Allie looked at Rob with her teeth clenched and signaled to Rob her fist down below her desk. Rob continued anyway as if he was presenting to the entire class, "I would like to announce that Alison Claire Malph has fallen for bad boy Tyler." The class immediately began to laugh at Allie. Danni, Elvis, Jane and Gene looked at Allie in confusion wondering if this was even possible for a tough guy like Eddie to compete with. Eddie just gulped heavily with his report still in his hands. He tried to rationalize in his mind that his girlfriend falling in love for Tyler was impossible because it just wasn't like Allie to do so, but then again in the back of his mind he knew that Tyler was the other tough guy Allie couldn't stop admiring and that possibly Allie's friendship with Tyler as close as it was with him. Eddie continued thinking, in the back of his mind, could it really be possible that Allie has fallen for Tyler?

Prof. Tribianni immediately tried to quiet his class, "People, please...please; let us not make fun of Alison's budding love life.."

Allie slapped her right hand on her forehand, "Oh brother...."

Prof. Tribianni continued, "Continue, Eddie." The class continued to snicker silently about Allie as Eddie presented.

As soon as 12:00pm arrived and Eddie quickly followed Ashley X outside to stop her from ruling the city. Eddie followed Ashley X, like a servant, but he walked slowly and sadly trying to cover up his pain after learning about Allie in the classroom. The rest of the gang met up with Allie for the first time after a couple of days at Arnold's. Danni, Jane, Elvis and Gene were ecstatic to see Allie again. The clouds became darker and were soon covering up the sky.

Allie began with her eyes focused on the ground since she was feeling bad not being with them, "I'm sorry for not hanging with you dudes and dudettes for a couple of days...I mean it's just that living in Milwaukee you never really get a chance to see a cool guy like Tyler and I just got carried away..."

Gene spoke, "It's okay, Allie, we understand sometimes we all get caught up meeting such greatness."

Allie smiled lightly and felt reassuringly glad that her friends understood her.

Allie looked around for Eddie. "Yo, where's UWM bad boy Eddie? I haven't seen him for some time…" Allie began thinking over the days that went by.

The rest of the gang pointed up to where Eddie and Ashley X were (they were standing by the jukebox) Allie became confused and asked, "Why's Eddie helping Ashley X all the time? Why isn't he hanging around with us?"

Elvis replied, "Well, Allie...even though their friendship has been fixed, Eddie still feels bad about Danni betraying Ashley X. Eddie told us that betraying a friend like that is just impossible for him to conceive."

Allie replied back, "Ashley X just seems like he's using us all. I mean which friend continues to take advantage of Danni's guilt?" She looked at the jukebox and angrily said, "I think I'm gonna have a little talk with his royal highness..."

Danni quickly pulled Allie's arm, "Wait! You can't just go there! I mean, yeah, he did consider himself to be just like any other student and for us to call him comrade. But remember he still has the power of the city!"

Allie faced the others and pointed to the jukebox. Allie couldn't stand to see her boyfriend being misused like that she angrily said, "Ashley X may have power over the city but he doesn't have power over a friend! Nor should he! I don't consider a person who takes advantage of someone else's kindness as a friend! Now don't stop me guys, please!"

The rest of the gang knew Allie was right. Danni stopped Allie again, "Wait, Allie! Just wear this super-sensitive microphone so we'll know what's happening.....good luck, Allie."

Allie smiled at the others, "Thanks, dudes and dudettes." She walked quickly with an attitude to meet up with Ashley X while the others watched from a distance at their booth. The rumbles of thunder and darkness of the clouds soon over took Arnold's and the neighborhood around it.

Allie quickly and confidently, with her anger, walked over to the jukebox to meet up with Ashley X. Once Allie was there, she approached Ashley X (who was facing the other direction and seemingly not aware of Allie's presence). Before Allie could speak to him, Ashley X instantly turned around and greeted Allie almost as if he expected her, "Yo, Allie...."

Allie was off-guard for a second, but then focused back her anger, "Look here, Ashley X! I don't know what you think you're doing but this is ENOUGH! You can't continue to take advantage of Eddie's kindness by playing on Danni's guilt for him to help you rule the city!"

Eddie tried to calm Allie down, "Allie, it's okay, really...I don't mind helping Ashley out." Allie didn't pay attention to Eddie because she was more focused on her anger toward Ashley X.

Ashley X responded with a cold attitude toward Allie, "If Eddie feels like helping, I won't stop him."

Allie now became enraged and frustrated for Ashley X not seeing her point, "You don't get it! DO YOU!?!? NO FRIEND AT ALL, TAKES ADVANTAGE OF ANOTHER FRIEND!"

Eddie put his hand on Allie's shoulder and calmly said, "Allie, please! I can handle this...." Yet Eddie knew that when Allie became this angry, it was almost completely futile to calm her down now.

Allie loudly, but did not project her anger at Eddie, said, "Eddie, get down from this jukebox! You shouldn't be here anymore! This is no friend of yours that uses you for 3 WEEKS!"

Eddie slowly backed away from Allie and left. He then quickly ran to the opposite side of the gang's booth and strained his neck up looking up 2 stories at the explosive argument that was about to begin. Suddenly with a clap of thunder and lightning, it began to rain slowly but the rainfall began to increase quickly.

Ashley X then shouted back at Allie, "I told you....Alisooon that Eddie wants to be here!" Ashley X tried to think of other things to say that would justify Eddie being with him all the time, but she knew deep down that he was taking advantage of Eddie's kindness and Allie wanted Eddie as her boyfriend again even if Ashley X had to get past him. Her angered emotions now took over. She yelled as the rain now came in sheets, "I can't help it if Eddie likes me as much as Danni likes you!"

Allie's blood began to boil, her face clenched up with rage, and her eyes became blood-shot; she shouted with all her might, "HOW CAN EDDIE CHOOSE TO BE HERE?!? YOU CONSTANTLY PLAY WITH THAT DUDE'S EMOTIONS!!! HE'S TOO KIND TO BE YOUR FRIEND! IN FACT, YOU DON'T DESERVE SOMEONE LIKE DANNI OR EDDIE!!!"

Eddie was just mesmerized watching the events folding on top of the jukebox as were the rest of the people in Arnold's. The rain began to pour so heavily in continuous sheets of rain that soon everyone outside was completely drenched but they were absolutely focused on the jukebox which now played Huey Lewis's 'The Power of Love' despite the cold, harsh whipping rain. Danny Fonzarelli, who was a waiter at Arnold's was engrossed in the possible fight with Allie and Ashley X; that could change the dimensions of ruling the city. The winds began whipping past Milwaukee in an excess of 45 MPH, tree branches and parts of the shingles of the roof were ripping off and blowing around Arnold's. The sky was filled with a darkness that made it seem like 10 PM. The lightning, thunder, and winds ruled the sky as the only sources of light and sound outside except for sounds and voices by the jukebox.

When Allie told Ashley X that he did not deserve Danni or Eddie, Ashley X's emotions completely overruled his consciousness. Ashley X was no longer aware that he was on top of the jukebox or of the horrendous thunderstorm around her, or that he was completely soaked to the bone with cold rain water. Ashley X was only focused on Allie and Allie only. Ashley X became a monster of pure anger and hate toward Allie. Ashley X charged toward Allie, with all of his hatred and energy, was aiming to punch Allie's right cheek but missed as she dodged him.

Meanwhile, Danny was doing everything to get the diners outside inside Arnold's because of the monstrous, terrifying thunderstorm. He tried using her whistle, threats of quiting and parental contact, but nothing was working. Danny soon noticed the fight by the jukebox, he knew he should stop the fight immediately but inside he desperately wanted Allie to beat up Ashley X after what Ashley X did to him and Ben yesterday afternoon. Ashley C and Rob couldn't believe it themselves...they were so shocked and fascinated by the fight that they forgot to take their umbrellas with them. Their clothes would soon be ruined. Elvis, Gene, Jane and Danni just stood at the same place with their frozen minds on the fight and their mouths wide open where they almost began to choke on the rain water.

Allie did not expect Ashley X at all to begin a fight. Allie was desensitized to the rain that soaked her completely or the cold that had given her goose bumps all over her body. Allie now knew this was...WAR! Allie soon side kicked Ashley X's stomach, and Ashley X slid knocked lying down on the slick, wet top floor of the drive-in and disco. They soon both ran up to each other in the middle of the floor and their hands grasped each other trying to push the other down on the floor. Allie and Ashley X were trying to push the other down with all their might and energy in each cell of their body. Their hands clenched on to each other so hard that their nails began to rip the skin off of each other hands which soon began to bleed. Eddie snapped out of his mesmerized state and knew that he had to stop it before anything serious happens. Lightning bolts ran seemingly continuously through the clouds and now several times the lightning hit the ground. Arthur Fonzarelli (aka Fonzie) knew HE HAD TO STOP IT NOW, otherwise there might be tragedy on the dancefloor.

Just before Eddie, Danny and Fonzie could approach the jukebox, a bolt of lightning landed on the floor and Ben's disco globe. Allie and Ashley X were both suddenly pushed away from each other from the electric force. It felt like someone had took a sledge hammer and swung it (like a baseball player) against their hearts. The electricity of the lightning bolt had somehow caused Ashley X's cellular phone to send a continuous shock signal (which was far less than what Allie or Ashley X received) to Eddie's metal bracelet. Eddie immediately fell forward in excruciating pain. He didn't know that the shock was coming from the bracelet rather he thought his proximity to the jukebox had caused him to receive a shock, but yet he still did not know why he was still receiving a continuous shock. Allie and Ashley X were now fickly coming in and out of consciousness from the shock, and unknowingly they both tripped passed the edge of the dancefloor and began to fall at the same time. They both began to scream, but they were not completely aware of what was happening...all they knew was that they were falling. Eddie suddenly looked up from the screaming, his eyes bulged out seeing a tragedy unfold right above him. His mind was racing, he knew he had to catch them, but he could only have the strength to catch one of them because of the excruciating on-going shock pain. No other student was close enough to be able to catch them in time. His mind played out the falling as if it was in slow motion. He had to make a decision, but which one? His emotions completely overtook him and he knew that the one he didn't catch could be serious injured or possibly die simply by the fall alone. Allie and Ashley X continued to scream falling down but their eyes were barely open, much less their minds aware of anyone catching them. Eddie's mind conflicted with the enormous crush, and love of his life he had for Allie and his guilt for letting Danni betray Ashley X. His mind almost blacked out by the conflicting emotions, and suddenly his overpowering relationship he had with Allie took over him like a gasoline explosion. He just couldn't live without Allie....He rushed over with only his soul giving him determination despite the merciless 55 MPH winds and the relentless, unforgiving shock pain that had caused him to be drained off of all bodily energy. With a sudden blow on his arms, he caught Allie and from the corner of his clenched eyes he surprisingly saw Tyler somehow catch Ashley X. Eddie could only move a step after gently placing Allie on the ground, where Eddie simply collapsed from the shock pain. Allie was conscious, but immobile (she couldn't move her body or speak) her eyes were half-way opened and her hearing was shaky to her, she didn't know if she was dreaming or dying. The continuous shock given to Eddie from the bracelet suddenly stopped, but Eddie felt no improvement in his condition. Suddenly, a tornado siren was blaring throughout the neighborhood....

Eddie struggled to face Allie and tried to prevent the rain water hitting Allie's face that was dripping from his face and violently from the wind. He faced Allie and looked directly to her as if their souls were communicating, he knew the severity of Allie's injuries and as much as he did not what to even think about it he knew that Allie could possibly die. He slowly struggled to get his denim jacket off and tried to cover Allie's chest from the cold and rain. He gently spoke with tears running down his face, "Allie, you just gotta be strong! You're one of the strongest ones among us! We all need you in our lives, Allie! Please don't go and leave us! I don't know if I could I ever live without you, Allie....I love you..." His shock pain finally caught up with him, soon after speaking his eyes closed and he collapsed right next to Allie. The rain continued to beat heavily and viciously against them, but Allie, Ashley X, and Eddie were all unconscious...

Ben was finally able to get all the people inside Arnold's and the paramedics arrived just 2 minutes after Eddie collapsed. The paramedics rushed the 3 of them to the nearest hospital. Everyone in Arnold's and the paramedics left the playground just in time before a massive F-4 tornado was arriving... "Whoa, this is heavy, Dad." Danny said.

"Danny, weight ain't got nothing to do with it this time." Fonzie said ushering everyboday away from the tornado.

[Bea]

Chapter Twelve: The Recovery of the Body.....and Heart?

Location: Pfishter Hospital, Thursday 17th Septmeber 1985, 1:00PM, the 7th floor in Eddie's patient room.

Out of the darkness, Eddie opened his eyes...everything appeared blurry at first, but then he saw everything in clear focus. He quickly heard the beeping sounds of his heart monitor on the right and glanced over at it. He began to look around him and his room, he understood that he was in a hospital bed but did not know where this hospital was. He looked out at the window and it was raining pretty hard, but this storm was nothing as ominous as the one a couple of weeks ago. He was puzzled seeing several cards and flowers near him. He looked down upon himself and was surprised not seeing his usual clothes on; he was wearing the typical, white colored patient clothes. Suddenly, he thought about where his blue denim jacket was and he immediately remembered all the events of what happened that stormy day. He yelled, "Holy crap, dude!" and he quickly jumped out of his bed despite his throbbing headache and still weak body. The heart sensors were ripped off by Eddie running to the doorway because of his overwhelming worry for Allie. The heart monitor rang loudly, as if a patient's heart stopped, and the nurses ran toward Eddie's room. When the nurses arrived at the doorway they were relieved Eddie was okay, but asked him to return back to his bed.

Eddie loudly and worried said, "What has happened to Alison Malph?!? Is she okay?!?"

Eddie's monitoring nurse, named Suzanne Keladwicz, hurriedly responded and blocked the doorway to prevent Eddie from leaving, "Edmund Warren Weber, return to your bed! You're under no condition to be walking around."

Eddie was defiant, and trying to struggle and squeeze past through Suzanne to go and find Allie and Ashley X, "I won't stop until you tell me what has happened to Alison Malph and Ashley Xxxch...!" Eddie made up his mind, he had to make sure both Allie and Ashley X were okay, but he especially knew his heart and life depended on making sure Allie was okay.

Suzanne replied, "Alison Malph and Ashley Xxxchapw... Oh, I can't pronounce it! Are both okay! But they are sleeping heavily and trying to recuperate..."

Eddie breathed a sigh of relief and his heart could beat again. He voluntarily went back to his bed and suddenly felt a rush of tiredness and sleepiness since he now became more aware of his physical condition....

Suzanne noticed Eddie falling asleep and softly said to him, "Don't worry, they'll be fine..."

Eddie was now on the verge of sleeping and then quietly mumbled, "Where....are...they...." But before Nurse Suzanne could reply, Eddie had already dozed off.

Leather, Ralph, Courtney and Potsie immediately rushed in from the 7th floor’s waiting lounge (they need to take a break on the emotional toll of their childrens injuries). It was clearly evident that Potise and Courtney had not slept in days. Leather, with panic, said with tears starting to form, "What has happened to my daughter Allie? I heard the heart monitor went off!"

Suzanne heart-warmingly assured them, "It's okay, Mr. and Mrs. Malph and you as well, Mr and Mrs Weber...Eddie just got up from the bed and the sensors came off. Edmund's now become fully conscious but he'll still have some tiredness and weakness for some time.. and Alison's asleep" Suzanne led the parents back to the 7th floor’s waiting lounge to comfort them after Courntey gave Eddie a kiss on each cheek...

About 10 patient rooms down from Eddie's was Allie's room. Allie had twice as many monitors in her room as Eddie did since her injuries were far more serious. Allie had at times, slipped in and out of comas, and was suffering from a weakened heart. Thankfully, the medical staff was able to help and strengthen her and she was now on her way to recovery. Allie now was feeling complete exhaustion and sleepiness; she would be awake maybe only 4 hours a day. The next morning, she tried to recollect what happened to her last. She remembered everything vividly up until the lightning struck Arnold's and remembered only flashes of her falling on the dancefloor. Despite her being somewhat conscious after the fall, when Eddie was talking to her, she didn't remember a thing about it. She couldn't remember anything of what happened to her fall, much less anything that happened after that. Right now, it was 3:30 PM and Allie was deeply sleeping. Her face was turned away from the doorway. Leather and Ralph suddenly crept in the doorway...

In Ralph's left hand, was a gree-colored background 'Get Well' card she was about to place with the rest of the cards and flowers. In Ralph's other hand was a bouquet of all different colorful flowers that the middle-classed, like him and Leather, could afford. Ralph was just about to place them when suddenly Allie turned around and opened her eyes...

Allie was not completely awake but she obviously sensed that her parents were nearby, she questioned her father without noticing the card or flowers, "...Mom, Dad, what are you doing here?"

Leather was peeved but knowing Allie's condition, she just calmly replied, "Your dad and I were dropping off a card and flowers..."

Allie felt immediately guilty and said, "I'm sorry....I had no idea that you would be showing such greater kindness to me."

Ralph dropped off the card and flowers with the rest (at a small table nearby Allie's bed) and walked over to Allie, "Well....I know you and Wanda may not get along but she was upset when she heard the seriousness of your condition. Also after realizing that we teased you just before your fight...made us feel so unwell that no shopping spree could ever heal it."

Allie was just in awe of what her father was saying. That the other Malphs themselves cared about her. Allie responded, "Wooowww.....thanks.....really..."

Ralph still feeling guilty softly spoke to Spinelli, "Don't tell the others this but.....I also planned another prank. Do you remember when you told me about Danni going to Becky's Jazz Bar with Ashley X to Olive Garden last Saturday?"

Allie was confused where this conversation was leading to, but softly replied, "Yeah.....so......?"

Leather slowly continued, "Well...." she pulled out a photo from her purse and gave it to Allie (it was the photo she took of the moment Ashley X tried to kiss Danni unknowingly), "...we got a picture of both of them trying to kiss each other..."

Allie was just sitting on her bed frozen. Leather's words were echoing through her mind as her eyes wouldn't stop staring at the photo. Allie's hands were never so still and her eyes never so focused. She thought wondering, 'Is this really possible?....What's happening to Dannni?...'

Leather continued on, "I just wanted to give you the original and say that you won't be like telling this back at college. You guys have totally gone through like way too much..." Leather still having hard feelings toward Allie gently tried to pat her in a friendly way, but it turned out as if Leather was trying to cautiously touch something disgusting. Allie didn't notice her mom's behavior. Ralph and Leather soon waved goodbye and left the room....Allie again did not notice Leather because her mind was still in shock over seeing the photo.

Allie began thinking harder...thinking, 'What has happened to Danni? Does she really likes Ashley X?....But he's misusing her!'. She kept on thinking about Ashley X and Eddie.....she then began to think about how much time she and Tyler were away from the gang.....her thoughts then related to the joking Rob and Ashley C played on her and Tyler....and it finally came to her. Allie was now feeling emotionally worse than physically. She whispered to herself, "I can't believe it! It's right in front of me! No wonder Eddie didn’t want me to fight with Ashley X! And that he did not mind spending more time with us." She continued to curse herself out in a bitter cry of extreme guiltiness, "Eddie's right, Danni did want to spend more time with him! Why didn't I just see it! ASHLEY X AND DANNI ARE IN LOVE! It all makes sense! No wonder they tried to keep it in secret, otherwise the campus would have teased them! Why did I have to be so stupidly and idiotically stubborn!?!?" Allie began to cry over the friendships she now betrayed....and how much worse she made it over the fight with Ashley X. Allie felt absolutely horrible being in her body. Allie had a crush on Eddie until seventh grade but with this betrayal the possibilities of recovering a relationship with Eddie or Tyler seemed impossible. Her mind drifted away from her hospital room and just focused on the on-going storm outside. Her mind was completely engrossed over the evil things she did....she felt that she was an insane madman who just destroyed the friendships for no reason at all. Her sadness and guilt completely over took her mind. Throughout the day, her parents (Ralph and Leather) brother Lou, sister Wanda, Gene, Elvis, Jane and Danni, Prof. Jerome, Prof. Murphy, the other parents and the Webers visited her but she pretended to be in a deep sleep to barely cover the wild emotions of sadness and guilt that were overwhelming her. She tried to keep up her tough girl image as hard as it was. As the day turned into night, and no one was in her room...she couldn't fall asleep. She felt that inside was the beating heart of a sinister young lady. She dwelled on it with increasing sadness throughout the night.....

The next day (Saturday) in the afternoon, Danni slowly walked
into Allie's room. Danni gently touched Allie's left hand to see if she was responding to her. Allie opened her eyes from her fake nap and sighed looking out of the window.

Danni asked, "What's wrong, Allie? Why you so down?....Are you still feeling weak?"

Allie tried to dismiss her emotional condition, "I'm fine, Danni....really...."

Danni looked directly at Allie...Danni could tell something was wrong with Allie because she wasn't the same high-spirited tough girl she used to be. Danni tried to comfort her, "Allie.....you gotta tell me....everyone' told me that you are not willing to talk to anyone after your folks arrived. Did they do something to you?"

Allie quietly said, "No, Danni, it's not them...." Allie knew that she had to say something.... she thought that not also Danni being a friend, but a girl could help Danni in understanding her situation. "It's actually me, Danni...."

Danni was immediately perplexed, "What do you mean?"

Allie continued, "I finally realized why Eddie wanted me to stop fighting Ashley X, why we kept seeing Ashley X, and also how Ashley X was right....about everything..."

Danni was even more confused, "What you talkin' 'bout, Allie???"

Allie pulled out the photo of Danni and Ashley X from underneath her pillow and showed it to Danni, "My dad gave me this photo of Ashley X and you when you went to Becky's Jazz Bar. I should have known that you two are in love, Dan."

Danni suddenly remembered the night when Allie and Eddie went to Becky's Jazz Bar. Danni knew that what Allie was saying was convincing, but Danni really knew where Eddie's heart was.

Slowly Danni responded, "You won't believe this, Allie, but I don't think that I love Ashley X. I know that I love Elvis and prefer him to Gene."

Allie's blue eyes bulged out and she sat up from her bed, "WHAT?!? What are you talkin' about, Danni?"

Danni kept this a secret from the rest of the gang and everyone else, but she knew it had to be told to her. Danni continued, "You remembered that microphone I told you to wear before you faced Ashley X, right? Well, I thought that after you were hit by lightning I thought the microphone malfunctioned. To my surprise, the microphone was still functioning and I could hear what happened afterward...."

Allie's eyes grew wider and she sat closer to Danni, "And....AND?!? What else, Danni?"

Danni slowly tried to remember what she said in the microphone, "Eddie was the closest one that could save either you or Ashley X. He caught you and somehow Tyler arrived in time to catch Ashley X before hitting the ground. Eddie was somehow affected by the shock and he managed to gently place you on the ground. He tried to cover you with his jean jacket and he whispered to you that you were one of the strongest ones
among us and that we all need you in our lives, furthermore he stated and I quote, 'I don't know if I could ever live without you, Allie, I love you'..."

As much as Eddie often said that and she had believe what Danni was saying, Allie's mind and guiltiness instantly dismissed it. She quickly pointed out, "That's the greatest thing I ever heard, Danni! I mean c'mon....I dated him since seventh grade for St Joan's sake! Besides the paramedics never mentioned in their formal report that I came with a denim jacket."

Danni quickly tried to convince Allie, "Allie! It's true....I swear! I'd
never make something up like that!"

Allie loudly said, "Danni, please....don't tell me anymore about it!" Danni tried to change the topic, "What's happening back at College?"

Danni wanted to continue talking about Eddie's affection for Allie and Allie gave her a look where she knew it was time to move on. "Just after the paramedics left with all of you...an F-4 tornado came through the neighborhood."

Allie was shocked again, "WHAT?!? WHAT HAPPENED TO EVERYONE?!?"

Danni calmly responded, "Ben was finally able to get all of us into the basement before the tornado could arrive. The tornado winds reached almost to 100 Miles per Hour! Miraculously, only windows were broken and some balls were gone. SAL 4000 really saved the place; he barracked the doors and windows from any type of wind damage. Everyone at Arnold's and around the city's fine, but now there is still some damages and debris to be cleaned up."

There came a knock on the open door, it was Ashley X. Allie quickly hid the picture of Ashley X and Danni under her pillow. Allie and Danni turned their heads toward Ashley X and both said, "Hi...Ashley..what are you doing here?"

Ashley X completely recovered from his injuries. He was still enraged over what Allie had done to him back in Arnold's but he hid his anger in a fake expression of remorse and guilt. Ashley X softly said, "Yo, Allie....I'm sorry....I don't know what came over me."

Allie was hit with another blow of sadness and guilt seeing Ashley X arrive. Allie tried to reassure Ashley X, "No, I'm sorry for everything Ashley....you didn't deserve what my big mouth said and fists did. I should have seen what you meant." Allie implied how she felt that Ashley X was right about Danni.

Ashley X showed Allie a jewelry box and opened it in front of Allie. It was a bracelet, similar to ones Ashley X had given to Eddie and Dean Clarkson.

Allie was speechless, "I....don't know what to say. Why are you giving me this?"

Ashley X replied, "I want you to have this to remember our new, restored friendship. We both said and meant things we did not want to say." Ashley X tried to give a small smirk to cheer Allie up.

Allie was overcome by Ashley X's kindness; she was completely unprepared for Ashley X asking for forgiveness when she herself started questioning and getting upset with Ashley X. Allie felt that Ashley X was more mature when it came to resolving situations. She felt that she would, from now on, think twice before approaching Ashley X. Allie was just amazed at the bracelet, "Wow....thanks...Ashley" and Ashley X gave Allie a hug. Suddenly there was a knock on the door.

Allie, Ashley X and Danni all looked toward the door and saw Eddie. He was now feeling well enough to walk and only had a few more days left in the hospital as they continued with Eddie's physical therapy. Eddie was holding a bouquet of flowers and a 'Get-Well' card behind him to surprise Allie. Eddie believed that Allie had heard everything before he passed out himself back at Arnold's during the storm. Danni and Ashley X noticed that Eddie and Allie wanted to be alone. Allie immediately interrupted the brief silence, "Yo, Eddie, you got a chance to meet Ashley X earlier, right?"

Eddie faced and smiled at Ashley X and replied back to Allie, "Yeah, I did." Eddie had already met and gave Ashley X a 'Get-Well' card and flowers as well, but Eddie was more enthusiastic to see Allie especially now since it was the first time he would get to meet the love of his life after the storm. Danni and Ashley X soon left the room and the hallway. Eddie began to nervously approach Allie knowing that he confessed his love to her and offered her the flowers and card. Allie gushed with happiness upon see them and set them aside with the other flowers and cards, yet inside Allie was plagued by the guiltiness.

Allie did not know how to start. She was frustrated with herself for being such a scaredy-cat of talking with Eddie. She took a deep breath and started slowly, "Thanks again for the card and flowers, Eddie. After what I did to Danni and Ashley X....I don't feel like I deserve anyone's sympathy."

Eddie held Allie's hand and sat next to her. Eddie tried to comfort her, "Allie, it's okay...we make mistakes..."

Allie was now upset with Eddie for not understanding but it was covered by her sadness, "Eddie, I mean I beat up Ashley X and I put you two in life threatening danger! How can I just say it's just a mistake....if anything happened to you two..." She looked at Eddie's eyes. As much as her heart did not want to believe Danni and Ashley X were a couple, she quickly looked away and knew that their happiness was more important especially after what she had done to them. She continued sniffling, "...I could not live with myself..."

Eddie tried to console Allie, "Allie, I know that your intentions were good and that you were trying to help me." Eddie thought Allie was referring to the severed friendships, he had no idea that Allie was refering to Danni and Ashley X as a couple and he had no idea how deep Allie's sadness was. Eddie simply only thought Ashley X as a close friend like the rest of the gang.

Eddie and Allie both noticed each other 'friendship' bracelets Ashley X had given to them. Allie sighed in pitiful disgust over herself, "Sheesh! Some type of friends we are to Ashley X..." There suddenly came a quiet, feeling of guiltiness upon both Eddie and Allie.

After about 4 to 5 seconds, Allie spoke again to Eddie, "Eddie, I'm very sorry for this mess. I....I..." Allie was at a loss of words because her heart was breaking because of realizing Danni's dating with Ashley X, messing up their relationship, messing up her friendship with the two, and putting them in life-threatening danger. She was just overwhelmed by it all. She struggled as her sadness caused her to breathe heavily, "....I don't know if someone like me...deserves to have a guy like you, Eddie. You know Danni and Ashley X seem to be having so much fun together and I had to mess it up."

Eddie was confused when Allie said 'you two seem to be having so much fun together', but he shrugged it off and again tried all he could to comfort her. Eddie placed a hand on her shoulder, but Allie just shrugged it off in sadness and faced the other side of the bed. Eddie knew that Allie would come to him for comfort, but when Allie rejected it he felt disappointed and sadden that Allie did not want to be comforted. Allie, on the other hand, wanted to be comforted desperately but she felt that she did not deserve Eddie's overflowing and always abundant kindness. Eddie slowly began walking out the doorway from the hallway and noticed Tyler visiting Allie; Eddie overheard Tyler talking with Allie. Eddie did not hear exactly what Allie and Tyler were saying, but he knew that Allie was deeply talking with Tyler. Allie confided in Tyler almost as a big brother, and tried to talk about what she was feeling to him. Eddie walked back slowly and in hopelessness to his room when he heard how Allie was talking with Tyler. Eddie thought to himself, ' Allie used to talk to me about whatever pain or sadness she felt....maybe Rob and Ashley C were right, maybe Allie really is falling in love with Tyler...' Eddie took one slow emotionally painful step at a time as his heart was burdened with the fact that Allie was not interested in him and that she had a potential boyfriend.

[Bea]

Chapter Thirteen: A Change In The College and In Friendships...

Location: Monday 21 September 1985, 6:30am, the Phfister Hospital.

Allie and Ashley X had been released from the hospital during the weekend. Today, Eddie was scheduled to be released and Nurse Suzanne Keladwicz began to clean his room up. Eddie felt better than ever and can't wait to meet everyone back at school so he can get back to his friends and usual rebelliousness. He finally accepted, in the back of his mind, that if Allie and Tyler were a couple it was okay with him but it was an area of heartache he did not want to emotionally go back to.

Suzanne enthusiastically encouraged to Eddie, "Are you ready to surprise your family and friends?"

Eddie happily agreed, "You bet your sweet ass, Suzanne! Seriously, I've been waiting to get out of here forever!" Potsie and Courtney were waiting at the waiting room to be surprised by Eddie.

Eddie was dressed in a red checked shirt, red sneakers, red T-shirt and jeans, when he noticed that his denim jacket was gone. Eddie quietly interrupted Nurse Suzanne, "Yo, Suzanne, but a...do you know where my denim jacket went?"

Suzanne had no idea and continued with taking the linens out of the bed and replied, "Sorry, Eddie, I've got no idea...you did not come here with any type of coat."

Eddie was confused about what happened with it, but was too excited to think about it long since he was leaving. Eddie was just about to leave when Nurse Suzanne interrupted him, "Hey, Eddie! Before you go.....you know Allie Malph, right?"

Eddie. teasingly but politely answered, "Well duh! Sure, I mean I went to see her as often as I could." Eddie couldn't prepare himself for what was about to happen.

Nurse Suzanne was reminded of something she found in Allie's room while she was taking Eddie's pillows. She reached in her pocket, handed a photo to Eddie and happily smiled with college-aged innocence, "Could you give this photo to Allie? She forgot to take it with her when she left. Awww.....it's so cute how that brunette and Ashley X....something, are about to kiss in Becky's Bar. He He He! Maybe Allie was trying to surprise those two by framing this for a gift. Those kids are just sooo adorable!" It was the photo that Allie hid in her pillow that Ralph and Leather gave to her.

Eddie at first wondered how or where this photo was taken. He looked in disbelief that it was actually Danni trying to kiss Ashley X. In an instant, he was completely floored and he understood Allie's behavior toward him. Eddie understood now that Allie believed Danni and Ashley X were dating and that she believed she had destroyed a romantic relationship. In another instant, he was hit again with shock and disbelief. He knew that this photo was taken from Rob and Ashley C back at the night of Becky's Bar from the camera angle of the photo. Again he was shocked, but this time at the most obvious that the picture showed, that Ashley X was falling for Danni. These 3 things all came together. When Eddie said goodbye to the medical staff, and left the hospital with his father, stepsister and stepmother (his real mother Loretta Campbell Weber died of heart failure in 1980)....he knew that when he would arrive back at UWM, things would be changed..... Little did Eddie know, how much things have changed back in UWM...

Eddie arrived back at UWM at 8:00am just in time for College to begin. Just as Eddie was about to open the car door, say goodbye to his family, and take a deep breath of the city air, he noticed the city of Milwaukee and was beyond belief shocked. The entire town had been transformed into an oil pumping station. Eddie was just staring at what used to be Milwaukee and trying to soak it all in. Eddie then mindlessly waved back to Courtney, Becky and Potsie as they left. In an instant, Eddie now became determined to knowing what happened to the campus, he felt that somehow the College betrayed its students by denying them any entry.

Eddie rushed to and opened the college doors and went to the cafeteria. He was surprised to see the hallways and classrooms all remodeled and restored. It appeared as if the campus was brand new for the 1980s. He focused back on his mission and he knew that this was the place where students would be if there was no entry. He violently opened the cafeteria doors and he was surprised to see students were actually having fun inside. Eddie looked around the cafeteria and couldn't believe his eyes...the students were really worried about ever going outside. Jane was painting an 'Army Navy Game' scene for art class on the cafeteria floor and noticed Eddie.

Jane happily and excitedly ran to Eddie, "Eddie! You're back! How are you doing? It's really great to have you back, Homeboy!"

Eddie was relieved and happy to see a familiar face, "Yo, dudette! I'm glad to see you again too! I'm doing fine and Doc Malph's fixed me up!" Eddie looked around for the rest of the gang. "Hey, uh....where is everyone else?"

Jane replied, "Well...everyone else went to different parts of the cafeteria." Jane was counting her fingers to keep track of who went where. "Elvis' practicing his guitar fingering in the new, remodeled music room. Danni's doing more of her experiments in the new lab. Gene's enjoying reading in the new music room and Spinelli is at the new gym where she is practicing her fighting techniques."

Eddie's eyes bulged out, "New music room?!? New gym?!? New lab?!? New English room?!? What happened to this place? This College looks like it's new!"

Jane explained to Eddie, "Well, Eddie, since the tornado damaged parts of the campus. The Dean decided to remodel and restore everything but he also went beyond that. He gave new facilities like the new gyms and labs. Even an entertainment room for us students to enjoy you and your band rocking out, Eddie! Isn't it the coolest!?!"

Eddie still couldn't believe what he was hearing, "AN ENTERTAINMENT ROOM?!?"

Jane teasingly dismissed Eddie, "Are you crazy, Eddie?!? Everyone's having fun being inside; it's the 1980s you know"

Eddie tried to get Jane's attention back but suddenly couldn't, "But...but...Jane...." Eddie quietly sighed and walked down the hallways to find the rest of the gang as he kept looking at how much UWM had changed in disbelief. Eddie arrived at the music room and saw Elvis rocking like he was Keith Richards. Eddie tried to enter the music room unnoticed but Eddie did notice him and froze for a second. Eddie was distracted from the guitar he was playing and yelled, "Eddie!" Soon the other guys from the band stopped playing to find their lead guitarist.

Eddie rushed to Elvis "Yo, Elvis dude! Are you okay?"

Elvis looked at Eddie and said, "More like I should be asking you that question. What are you doing here? I thought you were still in the hospital. I was planning to see you at band practice after class."

Eddie assured Elvis, "I'm awesome, Elvis. I'm doing well....I'm completely healed."

Elvis happily remarked, "That’s great, dude! Have you met the rest of the gang?"

Eddie replied, "I saw Jane, but I'm still have to see all of them. Whoa bummer, I can't believe how much this place has changed."

Elvis commented, "Yeah, isn't it great? Finally UWM has the equipment for all of us to enjoy our hobbies."

Eddie was stunned by Elvis' comment. Eddie thought that Elvis would have shared his same opinion that these changes in UWM were not for the best. Eddie quickly said, "Great?!? But look at the city, the oil wells took over it and no one wants to go outside!"

Elvis tried to calm down Eddie, "Whoa, Eddie! Cool off, dude! Just because UWM's received money from some companies and wants to improve it for us doesn't mean it's bad."

Eddie couldn't believe what he just heard, "UWM....receiving money!?!?"

Elvis was slightly confused by his best friend not knowing, "I thought we told you that....but, psst, keep it a secret okay? We told Menlo that we wouldn't let it spread on the campus."

Eddie quietly commented, "Or what's left of it....."

Elvis asked Eddie, "Yo, Eddie, meet ya at break, Okay?"

Eddie sighed and dispirited that Elvis didn't share his opinion replied, "Sure, dude....I'm gonna check out the place some more."

Elvis said, "Okay then" and happily went back playing his guitar. Eddie continued seeing Allie, Danni and Gene before class but they all shared Elvis' view, that they enjoyed how things are now and did not care about the outside. Eddie tried to get a chance to speak with Allie about the photo but Allie was too busy trying to deviate her mind from that heart aching issue by practicing martial arts in the gym.

At lunch, Eddie felt more dispirited than ever about reclaiming the city back and his drifting friendships. He can't seem to convince his friends, much less the rest of the students in UWM how much the campus was needed. Despite during his lunch breaks to visit and spend time with all of his five friends, he begins to notice that their friendships are slowly drifting apart since they are all spending so much time away from each other. In addition, he can't find Ashley X anywhere at all. Eddie decided to go the boys restroom, no one else is there he assumed, and just before he entered the stall door...Ashley X entered the boys’ restroom.

Eddie was suddenly shocked not only for finding him but also for him being with one of the baddest boys in UWM in the boys’ restroom, "Ashley! I've been looking for you!....but a...what are you doing right here?" Eddie pointed downward implying the restroom.

Ashley X wanted to meet with Eddie secretly and locked the boys’ restroom. He quickly ran to T.J. like a cheetah on the run from a lion.

Eddie growled, "Look, Ashley...um....what are you doing?"

Ashley X replied, "I just wanted to finish what I ain't done, word." Ashley X was getting ready to attack Eddie and vice versa.

Eddie remembered the photo Nurse Suzanne gave him and slowly ran like a charging bull towards Ashley X to the end of bathroom. Eddie snarled, "Look Ashley...you're really an awesome dude to everyone but us and all but I'm just tougher thatn you but Danni's too good for you and she's not ready for that lovey-gushy stuff."

Ashley X snarled back "You, Weber, are so dead."

Eddie and Ashley X quickly hit each other from the left side of the toilets to the right side of the sinks. Ashley X staggered toward the door, but when he tried to unlock the boys’ restroom door the knob broke off. SAL 4000 actually let the knob break off. Eddie's mind was racing, he was trapped in the boys’ restroom and the only escape was a window at the back at the end of the restroom where he fled from Ashley X. Denim was walking down the hallway when he heard the knob broke off. She rushed over to try to open the boys’ restroom door, but after hearing some of Eddie and Ashley X's fighting, she decided to sit next to door and listen in.

Ashley X faced T.J. and moved toward him, "Look here, Eddie...the other's don't have to find out about Danni and me.....and besides.....since I rule the city, I can make anyone's wishes for the future come true..."

Eddie knew Danni wasn't at all attracted to Ashley X, he just saw him as a great friend and nothing more. Eddie thought about how familiar he met someone crush-crazy over him a long time ago, but he couldn't remember. Eddie fished around in his pockets to find the photo and just before Ashley X was 2 feet away from him, he presented her the photo in front of his face. T.J. breathed heavily trying to avoid him and said, "I know about how you tried to make a move with Danni back at Becky's Bar and I know you have to do with something about the other students not wanting to go on the campus, Ashley."

Ashley X teasingly dismissed Eddie, "That's just damn stupid! I've got nothing to do with the students not wanting to be outside and besides it's their choice. As for the photo, well I'm glad you finally know about my feelings toward Danielle after these years...Now you can fight me like a man."

Eddie was confused. He only knew him for a couple of weeks and not years. Eddie knew Ashley X fought like a girl compared with him, Elvis and maybe Tyler but he quickly tried to focus on the city. Eddie carefully thought over that Ashley X had something to do with the other students not wanting to go outside because he thought over how the oil wells were built around the same time as Ashley X arrived at UWM and assumed power of the city. Eddie also knew that the oil being pumped out was probably worth millions of dollars which thus contributed to improvements of the school. Eddie angrily responded to Ashley X, "I'm sorry I have to do this, Ashley.....but if you don't do something about restoring the city....I'm gonna have to spread the word on this!" Eddie pointed toward the photo of Danni and Ashley X. He knew that despite losing a chance with Allie and being laughed at throughout the campus, he knew it had to be done to save the city.

Ashley X immediately became angered by Eddie's fighting and threat. He knew that if the photo was released in school, the students of the campus would ridicule and tease him and therefore not take him seriously anymore. Furthermore, she could then be taken over by Mayor Jameson who was gaining public support. Ashley X angrily and sarcastically replied, "So much for you keeping your promises on not questioning my rule."

Eddie answered back, "Oh....I'm not questioning....I'm demanding changes!"

Ashley X knew exactly how to turn the situation in his favor, she teasingly and sarcastically said, "Fine, Edmund, you can go and turn in that photo...but mind you, expect to see Allie again back in the hospital..."

Eddie did not expect this blow, "WHAT?!? What you talkin' bout, Ashely X?"

Ashley X sinisterly delighted in his threat, "You remember those 'friendship' bracelets I gave to you and Allie, right? Well with one touch of my cell phone I can give your girlfriend another shock that can weaken her heart..."

Eddie did not believe Ashley X's threat and did not even realize he was still wearing the bracelet, "Sure....whatever Ashley....try me if you wish..."

Ashley X slyly said, "As you wish, Edmund...." He dialed a code on his cell phone that sent a signal on Eddie's bracelet. Eddie was hit with a mild painful shock that caused him to kneel down on the restroom floor while his right hand tried to comfort his left wrist (which had the bracelet) It felt like someone had stabbed his wrist with a fork where the pain radiated out toward his left arm. He continued, "And don't you think about taking it off, Eddie because you expect something far greater..."

Eddie knew that he couldn't let Ashley X shock Allie. She and Eddie cared too much for each other to let anything happen to each other. Again, Eddie was faced with the dilemma of choosing between a friend and the welfare of the city of Milwaukee. Eddie's image of Ashley X being the thoughtful and kind guy who used to give candy and play with them was completely extinguished and now Eddie was beginning to see Ashley X's true colors and became completely angry toward him. He became furious realizing how Ashley X played with Allie's and his emotions in the past several weeks. Denim ran to catch Dean Clarkson and Prof. Taylor to end the situation before it would get out of hand.

Ashley X angrily questioned, "So what's your decision, Weber?"

Eddie reluctantly replied, "Fine, I won't do anything and I'll keep quiet." Eddie knew that he had nothing else to go against Ashley X and that he couldn't bare to see Allie back in the hospital. Prof. Taylor arrived at the door of the boys’ restroom and with her blowhorn, he yelled, "Attention, Edmund Weber and Ashley X come out of the boys’ restroom now! Otherwise I'm comin' in." Denim (Allie's cousin) then informed Dean Clarkson the door was jammed and locked. Prof. Taylor then left to get Hank. By now, a crowd of students were forming near the entrance of the boys’ restroom to see what was happening but they could not hear the discussion inside the restroom.

Ashley X also made another demand, "Just one more thing, Eddie....."

Eddie irritated replied, "What is it?"

Ashley X simply said, "You have to hit me, right here, right now!" Eddie still couldn't believe that after their argument, Ashley X still wanted him to fight him. Ashley X and Eddie were fighting each other near an open window.

Ashley X demanded, "C'mon, Hot Shot....I'm waiting unless you like shock pain...."

Eddie closed his eyes and slowly and reluctantly tried to meet his fist to Ashley X's face. Suddenly there was a huge WHACK sound on the wooden boys’ bathroom door. Hank decided to axe the door down since SAL 4000 was refusing to open the door. Ashley X grabbed Eddie's shirt collar to pull him in close, but just before Eddie's fist and Ashley X's face could make contact, Hank chopped the bottom half of the door down in one swing of the axe. Ashley X jumped onto the sink and squeezed through the open window just in time before Hank managed to open the door completely. Dean Clarkson was overjoyed planning to catch Ashley X and Eddie and before she could notice she said, "Okay...you little punks....it's time to....WHAT? WHERE IN THE HECK IS ASHLEY X? RANDALL! What's going on?!?" Ashley X was already outside the school and was sneaking back inside school.

Eddie let out a huge sigh of relief for not hitting Ashley X and said to everyone outside including Allie, "I never thought I would be so glad to see any of you. You too, Allie."

[Bea]

Chapter Fourteen: An Unlikely Alliance That Leads To An Unknown Destination

Location: Monday 21 September 1985, Prof. Dinkleburg’s classroom, 12:00pm, it's just after Dean Clarkson and Hank are able to open the boys’ restroom door

Dean Clarkson took Eddie to Prof. Dinkleburg's empty classroom to serve detention after he believes that Eddie deliberately locked the door for some type of prank. The cafeteria was completely busy with students spending their lunch which made Dean Clarkson to choose this room. The classroom was empty except for the two of them. Once Eddie sat down at a desk, Dean Clarkson began his lecturing.

"Damn you, Weber! Must you always make my life so difficult?" grumbled Dean Clarkson.

Eddie was disappointed over serving detention, but at least it was break to think about what just happened with Ashley X. "But, Dean Clarkson, he started that fight in the first place!"

Dean Clarkson dismissed his excuse, "I don't care, Weber! Denim already told me that you and Ashley X were kicking each other's asses and I won't tolerate it!"

Eddie tried again to make the dean understand his point of view. "But, but, Dean Clarkson, but I..."

Dean Clarkson annoyed said, "Stop staying that awful word!"

Eddie knew it was useless trying to convince Dean Clarkson with him knowing full well about their past history together. Dean Clarkson reclined back in his teacher's chair and began reading a magazine. After a long pause, Eddie decided to question Dean Clarkson.

Eddie cautiously questioned the old beast, "Um....Dean Clarkson....can I ask what do you think about Ashley X?"

Dean Clarkson grumbled while continuing to read, "Another lousy punk like you, Weber!....Why you ask?"

Eddie whistled, tapped his fingers, and looked around the classroom, "Oh....nothing....."

Dean Clarkson took a look above his magazine to see any suspicious behavior on Eddie but he couldn't detect anything. Suddenly, Dean Clarkson noticed Eddie's left wrist (that was tapping the desk) and noticed his bracelet which was similar to his own. Dean Clarkson, uncertain about Eddie's response with his cracking voice, asked, "Hold it, Weber.....where did you get that metal bracelet on your left wrist?"

Eddie stopped tapping and whistling and pulled back a bit to see his bracelet that Ashley X had given to him. He was peeved thinking about it because instead of the bracelet being a symbol of friendship...he saw it as a symbol of betrayal. Eddie carelessly responded, "Eh....it's just some bracelet Ashley X gave to me, that's all..."

Dean Clarkson silently gasped. He knew there could be a possibility that Ashley X had got Eddie too. Dean Clarkson got up and started pacing in front of Eddie. He began questioning like an attorney at a court case, "Weber.....has this bracelet ever been a....pain to wear?"

Eddie did not have a clue what Dean Clarkson was implying he calmly replied, "I guess so...."

"Very interesting....yes...was the bracelet a shock when you received it and still is a shock, Weber?"

Eddie now knew something was up, when Dean Clarkson greatly emphasized the word 'shock'. He looked around the room, "uh....yeah...."

"Ah ha! I knew it! It was all a matter of deduction thanks to watching all of those episodes of 'Columbo' with Peter Falk! We're under the control of Ashley X, Edmund! Take a look for yourself, Weber!" Dean Clarkson stuck her wrinkled arm out in front of Eddie to show him that she had a similar bracelet to him.

Eddie couldn't believe it. He tried harder than he ever did to speak, "How...is...that...possible? Hey! It makes sense, no wonder you never punished Ashley X after that 50s quiff incident!"

Dean Clarkson sighed and went back to his seat. "Sure, Weber, it was a very dark day for me. I never thought that I...Wayne Roger Clarkson...would be under the control....Oh I can't say it.....a student." Dean Clarkson turned his head back in shame.

Eddie was instantly reminded of what Butch and Denim said earlier about him. Eddie interested, asked, "Denim told me that some guys took you right out of school and into a car! Is it really true?!?"

Dean Clarkson looked up at the classroom windows in shame, trying to avoid looking at Eddie. "True, Weber, that's true...the men took me to the city and did unimaginable things to me. I tried to fight them with everything I had but they were too much....they constantly scowled and shouted at me. They forced me to wear this bracelet and to do whatever Ashley X wanted me to do."

Eddie made a fist and hammered the student desk with it. He was furious, he knew that Ashley X had gone too far by gaining power of the city of Milwaukee and threatening any reporters or TV presenters or faculty. He shouted, "Dean Clarkson, we've got to stop Ashley X, before it gets worse...."

Dean Clarkson with lost hope looked at Eddie, "What do you mean, Weber? How can we even begin?"

Eddie smirked and cleverly said, "Don't worry, Dean.....I got a plan...."

Eddie and Dean Clarkson continued to discuss about their plan to stop Ashley X. Dean Clarkson chuckled knowing what clever tricks and schemes they would use to stop Ashley X. Little did they know that SAL 4000 was watching and listening over them....

Meanwhile, back at the cafeteria, lunch was being served right after recess. Lunch Lady Sandra was blushing over Elvis giving her flowers from his parents garden, as always. Elvis received both side dishes. Ashley X was right after him and before Lunch Lady Sandra could ask him what he would like, Ashley X got a phone call. Ashley X moved aside and listened in on the phone.

He heard SAL 4000's rigid computer voice say, "Ashley X, I have supervised Edmund Weber and Wayne Clarkson like you wanted me to. According to what I have observed, they are planning to sabotage you. What shall I be programmed to do?"

Danni, Gene, Elvis, Jane and Allie were all sitting together at the lunch table. Allie shouted to Ashley X, "Yo, Ashley X! Are you gonna sit with us or what?"

Ashley X kindly and loudly replied, "I'll be there....just a minute."

Elvis questioned the rest of the gang, "Yo, dudes and dudettes, is it me or is Ashley X always talking on his cell phone?"

Danni scientifically responded, "It's not you, Elvis, he's been spending 34.7% more time on the phone these past few days in comparison to when we first saw him."

Jane commented, "Well....we haven't really seen him at all lately."

The five continued to discuss about Ashley X's changes ever since the city changed. Back at the other side of the cafeteria, Ashley X was thinking of what to do to Dean Clarkson and Eddie.

Ashley X cockily said, "Give Dean Clarkson and Eddie the Silent Darkness treatment."

SAL 4000 replied, "Initiating 'Silent Darkness' treatment."

Back in Prof. Dinkleburg’s classroom, Dean Clarkson and Eddie were laughing and smiling together at the desk knowing what their fool-proof plan would be to bring down Ashley X. Without warning, SAL 4000 locked and covered the classroom door. SAL 4000 closed the window shades and turned off all the lights. Eddie and Dean Clarkson were stunned, looking around all over the classroom, not knowing what was happening. Despite it being in the middle of the day and it being the busiest time (lunch) in College, the classroom was plunged into near pitch black darkness and the door and windows were sealed so tightly no noises could be heard from outside or in the hallways.

Dean Clarkson yelled, "WHAT THE HELL'S GOING ON?!?"

SAL 4000 replied, "I'm sorry, Dean Clarkson and student Weber but you two have violated your conduct behavior."

Eddie angrily yelled back to SAL 4000, "What conduct behavior?"

SAL 4000 with his monotonous rigid computer voice answered, "I believe, Student Weber, that you have been fully warned before."

Eddie ran to the door and tried to open it every possible way. He first tried the knob, then ramming the door, and trying to unlock it with a paper clip like Potsie taught him. No matter what Eddie did he couldn't open or budge the door, it was like trying to break through a brick wall. Dean Clarkson tried throwing books at the windows, but little did he know that the shades that were drawn were made of reinforced steel protecting the glass windows. Dean Clarkson and Eddie tried yelling for help for 15 minutes but no one could hear them since SAL 4000 sealed the doors and windows so tightly.

The classroom had a silence and darkness to someone being locked in the bedroom closet with no lights.

SAL 4000 impatiently commented, "You two appear to be difficult in disciplining. I shall correct that...." Before Eddie and Dean Clarkson could start throwing things at SAL 4000 they were shocked heavily. They both walked dazed and confused for a few seconds, and fell over on the floor of the classroom. The two could not tell if they were entering into unconsciousness because there appeared to be no change in darkness...

After 15 minutes when lunch was over, the students of Prof. Dinkleburg’s class arrived near the door but SAL 4000 told them that Dean Clarkson was suddenly feeling ill and decided to take a few days off. When the students of Prof. Jerome’s class came back, Prof. Jerome worriedly asked, "Has anyone seen Eddie around?" No student had a clue where he was.

Elvis replied, "The last time I saw him was at lunch. None of us know where he is! He didn't even show up!"

SAL 4000 interrupted the conversation and said, "Faculty Jerome, one of your students, named Edmund Weber, has been feeling sick and has went home."

Prof. Jerome was comforted knowing that Eddie was not missing but still worried about his condition, "Oh my god, I hope it's not too serious..."

Jane commented to the gang, "But Eddie was feeling just fine last time we saw him."

The class continued to talk and gossip about what happened to Eddie. SAL 4000 tried not to arise any suspicion on Eddie's situation, "Ladies and gentlemen, there is no need to worry. Eddie has just been feeling nauseous. I suggest you all return to your studies."

Allie sarcastically commented to the gang, "...Probably after smelling the cafeteria food."

Prof. Dinkleburg quickly settled the class back into learning their math.

The hours passed in school, 7, 8, 9, 10 PM....way past when the faculty, students, janitors, and everyone else left for the day. Potsie and Courtney called his friends all day after school about where Eddie was. His parents and the gang's parents (parents of Gene, Elvis (who were twins), Allie, Jane and Danni) all went out searching for Eddie around the neighborhood, the least place they expected to find Eddie (in school) was actually where he still was. It was around 11 PM.....Eddie felt groggy and had a throbbing headache. He and Dean Clarkson were still in his office. Eddie could barely recognize the time in the darkness. When Eddie got up he was soon bumping into the desks and tables of the classroom. He felt almost blind, he was trying to feel his way though the classroom. Dean Clarkson, on the other hand, was still unconscious. Before Eddie could realize what happened to him hours ago, the classroom door slammed open and a group of tall, shadowy figures stood in the doorway.

Eddie recognized Ashley X's voice but couldn't see where he was in the pitch darkness, "Take these two to the city! Now!"

Before Eddie could fight back, he was shocked from his bracelet and fell into unconsciousness again. The men dragged their limp, seemingly lifeless bodies through the unlit, darken hallways of UWM. It was a dark, blue lit eerie night with no moon. The men finally arrived at their dark blue van and carried and placed Dean Clarkson and Eddie into the back. The men quickly drove the van out of the College's parking lot and onto the nearest freeway. Eddie and Dean Clarkson were still unconscious throughout the trip. By the time they would wake up....they would have wished that they wouldn't have...

[Bea]

Chapter Fifteen: Eddie Enters A New, Dark World That Shatters His Conceptions

Location: Somewhere in Milwaukee, Tuesday 22 September 1985, around 1:00am.

Eddie slowly opened his eyes and felt dizzy and nauseous; he woke up in an unlit, dark, abandon, moldy, deteriorating room. The only light was the midnight blue light which bathed the room in an eerie glow of unfamiliarity and fear. Eddie's vision finally cleared up and he could see around the room clearly. He saw several metal desks, filing cabinets, and chairs all around the room. He ran to a window and looked around; he gasped looking downward noticing that he was 5 stories high. He looked around the city's skyline to see anything familiar, but nothing he saw was familiar. He was surrounded by the buildings of the blighted area of Milwaukee. The unmaintained and abandoned buildings around him presented a sense of pessimism since no one was really there to hear him cry out for help and that it could possibly be more dangerous to go outside where crime could be lurking. Eddie ran to the other end of the room to open the heavy oak doors, but it was useless. The doors were locked and would not budge. Eddie quickly looked around for any doors for his escape, but he could find no other ones. He checked every window to find a fire escape stairway, but there was only one that already fell down to the ground since it was greatly corroded. Eddie suddenly heard a loud snore behind one of the metal desks. He carefully approached the noise since he was already stuck with heart racing fear. When he crept around the desk, he sighed in relief because it was only Dean Clarkson snoring and sleeping away.

Eddie tried to tap on Dean Clarkson's shoulder for him to wake up. He gently said, "Yo, Dean Clarkson, it's time to wake up! C'mon!"

Dean Clarkson not aware of the situation and still sleeping just mumbled, "Five more minutes, Sarah....please...."

Eddie shook Dean Clarkson.

Dean Clarkson got up with several snorting sounds and hacking coughs. He woke up crabby as his usual self and said, "Who dares to wake me up from my nap?!? WHAT THE Hell?!? Where am I? This isn't my home!"

Eddie explained to Dean Clarkson, "Do you remember what happened last time? Last time I remember.... SAL 4000, back at school, closed off everything and we got shocked. When I woke up around 11:00pm, some dudes opened the door, but I got shocked again. Now we are in some type of old, unused office building. I tried to find an escape but the only way is through those locked heavy wooden doors."

Dean Clarkson carefully walked around the entire room to understand their situation. He finally approached the doors and tried slamming into the doors, but the doors still would not budge. Dean Clarkson grumbled, "Damn these bones and my osteoporosis! If I was young again, I could knock these doors down easily!"

Immediately they heard a rush of footsteps up a stairway from the other side of the wooden doors and a man yelled at them, "STOP BANGING THE DOORS! Otherwise, you can expect something more painful!"

Dean Clarkson and Eddie both backed away from the doors and their bodies clenched up not knowing what to expect. After the men rushed downstairs, Eddie and Dean Clarkson tried to think of what to do to escape. Eddie crept to the wooden doors and placed his ear next to them. He could hear a discussion going on downstairs but he could not clearly hear the words. Eddie saw an air vent just to the right of the doors and 3 feet above him. He instantly devised a plan to listen in on the conversation downstairs. Eddie pushed a chair toward the wall just below the air vent and took away the metal cover. Before Dean Clarkson could say anything to stop him, Eddie crawled through the air vent. It was completely dark and immensely dusty inside and he felt like lab rat going through a complex maze of tunnels. Luckily, after 2 minutes his eyes caught a bright light seeping though an air vent. As Eddie slowly and carefully walked closer, he could hear the voices from the discussion getting louder. He approached the end of the air vent as quietly as he could and tried to silence his breathing so that the group of men would not notice his presence.

One of the men said, "I can't believe that teenage twerp!"

Another guy criticized, "If I wasn't being blackmailed, I would absolutely destroy him!"

Then another man complained saying, "Not only do we have to worry about the crimes of our businesses, but also about kidnapping!"

Big Rob soon came into the meeting and slammed his fist on the table to silence the group of men. His thunderous and ominous voice said, "Silence, you pathetic worms! You all know that Ashley Xxxchapwicco has the information to destroy your businesses!!! If you girls keep complaining, get ready to hear bits and bits of your crimes on the news! Also, you can expect for me to beat the hell out of ya!"

The business men were silent. They knew to keep quiet after his threat.

Big Rob continued, "So, Mr. D'Maggio, how's the oil pumping at UWM?"

Mr. Dimaggio, a business man, nervously replied, "It's going great. The oil's pumping, the money is coming in, and the Dean's keeping quiet."

Big Rob smiled and chuckled, "That's great! You can always depend on money to shut people up!"

Eddie was mentally blown away and he was no longer aware of his filthy, dusty condition in the air vent. He was 'glued in' listening and watching to what was happening.

One business man dissented and angrily yelled, "I had enough! Why are we trying to help some immature college-aged punk trying to win popularity from some stupid Wisconsin College?"

Big Rob approached this man and before the guy could react, Big Rob punched his nose so hard that blood splattered on the wall. Big Rob furiously yelled back at him, "You little worm! Don't you dare question Ashley's authority! Next time, you won't have teeth to say a thing!" Big Rob then kicked the man hard in the stomach. The man was already curled up in fear on the floor.

Mr. Dimaggio softly and cautiously questioned Big Rob, "Sir...uh...what do we do with the dean himself and that Midday Milwaukee presenter's son?"

Big Rob harshly responded, "I don't know yet! Ashley did not say a word yet!"

Eddie was starting to feel a sneeze come on because of the layers of dust in air ducts. He tried everything to stop it, but then suddenly he let it out. The sneeze echoed throughout the old ventilation system. Big Rob and the men turned toward the air vent and noticed Eddie. Big Rob tried to send a signal to shock Eddie from his hand-held controls but Eddie wasn't receiving anything. Eddie crawled, as fast as he could, back toward the office room where Dean Clarkson was.

Big Rob cursed his controls, "This stupid piece of garbage it's not working!" Big Rob then got a quick glance of Eddie's wrists as he was quickly leaving. He noticed that there was no bracelet on either wrist.

Big Rob yelled at the business men, "You idiots! What have you done with their bracelets?!?"

One of the men cowardly said, "We....uh...took them off...."

Big Rob became enraged and his eyes were bloodshot. "ARRRGGHHHH! JUST WAIT 'TIL I DEAL WITH ALL OF YOU! FORGET IT! I'M JUST GONNA BURN THIS PLACE DOWN! ASHLEY'S NOT GONNA NEED THEM ANYWAY!" Big Rob took his cigarette lighter and let its flames burn the wall of the meeting room. Big Rob and the men quickly ran downstairs and outside to escape the fire. The fire was quickly overtaking the chairs and table of the meeting room. Eddie crawled faster upon hearing what Big Rob said. His knees and wrists were throbbing with pain and he was coughing more heavily than Dean Clarkson ever could because of the heavy amounts of dust that were entering his mouth while he was panting. Just before Eddie could get out of the air duct and onto the floor, he sprained his left wrist since he was flustering to get out.

When Eddie got out, Dean Clarkson complained, "What the Hell are you trying to do, Weber?!? It's not time for one of your shenanigans!"

Before Eddie could explain that a fire was approaching, the wooden doors were suddenly engulfed in flames.

Dean Clarkson yelled in terror, "WEBER, this place is on fire!"

Dean Clarkson frantically looked out of the windows for any type of escape, but just as Eddie noticed earlier, there were no fire escapes. Dean Clarkson complained, "Out of all things! This has to happen!"

Eddie was clutching up to the windows because the fire had over took about one-half of the room. The heat emitting from the fire felt like the heat when one opens a hot oven. His body tensed up feeling the excruciating, skin burning heat in front of him and the cold, drafty air behind him from the windows. The fire was consuming the room at such a fast rate that the wooden door frame fell through past the five stories and into the basement. Dean Clarkson knew she had to think of something fast. Eddie was just mesmerized looking toward the gaping, seemingly bottomless 20- foot wide hole where the wooden doors used to be. Eddie was terrified, yet transfixed of the merciless fire that raged on.

Dean Clarkson shouted out to Eddie despite the loud cracking and falling pieces of fire, "Weber! Weber! C'mon I found a way to get out of here!"

Eddie did not even realize Dean Clarkson was shouting; much less know that he was still there. Eddie stared into the hole noticing every floor below it was an inferno. The fire had completely consumed everything on the floors below. Eddie looked at it, as if, down below was the vortex to a fiery, continuous fall to one's death.

Dean Clarkson grabbed Eddie and took him to an edge of windowsill. Eddie immediately snapped back into reality and noticed the 5 story drop. Eddie exclaimed, "Holy crap! Are you off your rocker, Dean Clarkson?!? We'll die, if we jump down!"

Dean Clarkson, though, knew what she was doing. He snapped back, "Look, Weber! There's no other escape! We have to jump down and hopefully that huge dumpster below will break our fall." The fire was creeping up closer to the two and it was only 6 feet away from them.

Eddie knew Dean Clarkson was right; there was no other way.... The two grabbed each other's hands, closed their eyes, stepped onto the windowsill and fell. The fire's flames immediately exploded out of that window just after they left. The fall felt like an eternity, Eddie's stomach rushed up to his chest and he could hardly breathe. This was a fall he never experienced in any ride of Palasades Park. SPLAT!!!! Eddie felt okay and so did Dean Clarkson, but they looked around and to their disgust they were sitting on rotting food and garbage. A stench that made them almost puke since the dumpster had not been emptied all summer. They were quickly reminded of their peril with an explosion on the 4th floor of the abandon office building. Tinder and flaming debris were spewed out of the windows like confetti. Dean Clarkson and Eddie quickly jumped out and ran down the darken alley. Just then another blast shattered the glass windows of the third floor as the structure of the building was becoming more unstable. An eight-foot steel metal filing cabinet, charred and blackened, soon fell out of one of the windows and fell into the dumpster…it crushed the edge of the dumpster like foil.

They ran down 2 blocks to avoid not only the fire, but to avoid any suspicion of others thinking that they caused it. Eddie’s eyes searched everywhere wherever they were running since the consuming shadows of the alleys lurked with the potential of unknown danger. From around the corner of a bleak, graffiti-covered industrial storage facility, they were approached by a motorcycle thug who had a violent temper and was short on patience.

Dean Clarkson yelled, "What do you want, you little punk? The kid's with me!"

The thug replied, "Are you sure about that? You better give me your money, Pops!"

Dean Clarkson turned around to Eddie and snapped to him, "Weber, I want you to turn around and not observe this! I don't want to set a bad example to a student." Eddie turned away, but he was reluctant doing so knowing that someone at Dean Clarkson's age would need help.

The thug mockingly laughed, "Damn! A College dean, you better discipline me too because I've been a bad boy! HA HA HA! But then, I never really liked teachers..." Before the thug could punch Dean Clarkson in the stomach, he grabbed his fist and turned it around so fast and hard that his wrist snapped. Dean Clarkson then gave an upper cut to the guy's chin and left elbowed his stomach. The thug fell down and moaned in pain.

Dean Clarkson cockily said, "What else do you got, Dirt bag?" Dean Clarkson then took his right foot and smashed his nose with his heel. The thug slowly, like a snail, tried to get on his motorcycle and knew Dean Clarkson was a man not to be messed with.

Dean Clarkson waved his finger, "No no no....I'll be taking that!" Dean Clarkson gave him his crabbiest look and the guy ran off down the street. Eddie had his hands over his eyes and was looking away from Dean Clarkson. Dean Clarkson called to Eddie, "It's okay now, Weber, he's gone!" Eddie turned around and could not believe it. There wasn't a scratch on her.

Eddie stuttered in disbelief, "But..wha...wha...wha...what about....?"

Dean Clarkson sat on the motorcycle and offered its helmet to Eddie. Dean Clarkson replied, "Forget about it, Weber! Don't tell anybody at UWM what just happened! Now, let's get out of here!"

Eddie just stared at Dean Clarkson, who was revving up the motorcycle while offering Eddie the helmet with his right hand. It was an image he never thought he would see. He slowly approached the motorcycle, stuffed his shirt back in his jeans and took the helmet. He sat behind Dean Clarkson.

Dean Clarkson warned Eddie. "Now, Weber, hold on to my waist while I ride us out of this place! Just don't hold me too tight; otherwise, I'll have to make a pit stop." Eddie sighed and he reminded himself that this was....Dean Clarkson. The dean revved up the motorcycle and yelled with a motorcycle man voice, "Let's get this hog on the road!" Dean Clarkson yelled with an energy and vitality that he was in the early 1960s again. Dean Clarkson made the motorcycle tires screech, pulled the motorcycle back on one wheel and when the front wheel landed back on the ground......THEY WERE OFF!

Eddie held onto Dean Clarkson with all he could despite his sprained wrist because the Dean was zipping though the city roads. Eddie was in shock all over again. Dean Clarkson was speeding past cars, weaving between lanes, and going through all sorts of traffic. The two were speeding down the busy, crowded downtown areas of the nightlife of the city. Eddie felt the whipping of the wind against his face and his jacket flapping madly behind him. Eddie was shutting his eyes tightly fearing there might be an accident, but when he slowly opened them he was surprised to see Dean Clarkson completely in control of the motorcycle. Eddie was fascinated, just like when the pale kids showed him the huge comic store, seeing the sights of the city at nighttime and it was a world he never saw before. From the depressing, bleak blight of the city…Eddie was now seeing the energy and excitement of the city’s downtown nightlife. He was captivated seeing grownups enjoy a night on the town, the dance clubs, the music, and the brilliant colorful lights. His mind, transfixed on a new world he often knew since being a College studentm he would be naturally secluded away from these things.

Within an hour, they finally arrived on the freeway from the gridlock traffic that would lead them toward home. Eddie took a look back to see the condition of the abandon office building. The 30-story building was covered in flames; it was a pillar of fire in the skyline of the city. The immense light from the fire covered half of the city into a deep red hot color despite the puny, yet numerous glowing street lights. He could hear in the background the sirens of fire trucks rushing over to the building and the metal groaning and straining under the pressures of its own weight. The sounds of the wailing building rumbled throughout the city. While Eddie was staring back thinking over what they just escaped from, Dean Clarkson was focused and engrossed on the road in front of them. They sped further down the freeway toward the beginning of a sunrise where the eastern sky was already appearing purplish...