Fanfic - How I Met Your Mother (UPDATED: May 26, 2012)

[AstronSoul]

WOO and HOO update!!!

Ok so doing this on my phone so will be short and sweet.

I'm glad Veronica is being more a team player I just hope it lasts, and mouse is so adorable. The teams plans to psych em out is precious and I hope it works!!

Now that Harmony is standing up for herself I hope she see's what a real bitch Cordy is and maybe hinders the witch a bit.

Willow calling Tara, "My Tara" ooo makes me gush!!!! And the same at the very end when Tara whisper, "My Willow"

Great job!!

~AS~

[wimpy0729]

OH OH!! I think I know what Faith did to the ball to help Bettina bat better. At least I hope that's what it is, cause that's a great motivation to just knock the crap outta the ball. Yes! Can't wait for that whole thing, and luckily I won't have to wait long - Yay!

Harmony sticking up for herself against Cordy was a nice treat. Get them arguing amongst themselves is another great strategy.

Cordy's group of girls need to stop taking lessons in nastiness from her cause that's not going to get them anywhere, nope.

And I'm also glad to see Mouse to feel so important here, and also speaking up to those little bitches.

Oh, please let the game come soon!!


Wimpy

[Babbles4Twillow]

Ello! I'm baaaack! Glad you liked the "outraged gibberish"! Promising an update soon btw! Now, on to fb!

Willow giggled, “You’re a breast gal.”

YAYS!

Mouse spoke up, “Devola says the prune juice is murdelating her and she had to go the bathroom and some other girls did, too.” Mouse thought it over, “Me, too.”

MURDELATING!!!! hahahahahahahahahahaha! Oh man! Once again, you have managed to make me laugh loud enough to wake up my roommate on my first night back home! YAYS!

For an instant, Veronica’s shoulders slumped, then a little hand grabbed hers and Mouse’s piping voice could be heard loud and clear. “I’M Veronica’s best friend and you’re all mean girls and I’m gonna get on base, so there!” Then the little girl stamped her foot and tugged at Veronica’s hand. “Come on, Veronica! They’re bad girls and we don’t have to talk to them!”

Go Mouse!!! I love the way this friendship is developing. Poor V though, her sitch makes me so sad.

“’The Kitten Army’,” she said in an awed voice.

Kittens unite!!! Star power!!

Tara’s voice was the barest whisper, “Willow, my Willow,” was all she said.

Oh goodness!! *wipes eyes*

You've got a nice build-up going on here. Everything feels so intense just waiting for that game! W/T better get party plans going on! I have faith in our little ones. Let's go Reds, let's go! Let's go Reds, let's go! YAY!

Can't wait for more!
Allie

[ashcrash71590]

Okay so I'm really enjoying this story, it's really cute I love the interaction between your characters and I love that you have Harmony in it. Not many people put her in their stories and I always enjoy when she is

[willowtaralover]

Loving the catty chat between Dogdelia and (Dis)Harmony and Dogdelia’s fear that in two weeks she’ll be drinking cheap beer and buying clothes at a K-Mart because Faith handled her year book.

Cordelia continued casually brushing her hair, but her smile was dangerous. “Really? I didn’t see your name on the Honor Roll.”

Harmony fired back. “Well I saw yours, right UNDER Willow Rosenberg’s!”

Whoooooo, bitchy or what heh heh heh heh. Wonder if this will help the Reds win the big game?

I just love and adore that you contrast the above with Willow and Tara waking up and being all with the loving, plus the two cute nicknames they have for each other Tare bear and Boob Boob

Willow blushed. “I don’t know. I felt all growl-y sexy. I wanted to mark you, tell everyone you’re mine. You’re not mad, are you?”
Now why does the idea of Willow being all ‘growl-y sexy’ make me think of a certain redheaded pirate

Mrs. Finch materialized behind Willow and Tara while they stood in line and looked critically at Willow’s neck. “Another spider bite eh?”

How does Finchy keep appearing from nowhere like she does and why is she looking at Willow’s neck? Sound’s pretty creepy to me.

I can imagine that the prune juice would be having an interesting effect on the girls. I’m surprised that there hasn’t been a mass outbreak of breaking wind with some choice words from Devola.

I’m interested to know just how the softball coach Dogdelia’s dad hired for her team is doing? Are they following her instructions or are they just a shambles?

Billie’s voice was slow and soft, “She’s never gonna make it onto my base. She’s a crybaby stupid little brat which is why she hangs around with YOU! Everyone hates you, Veronica! You don’t have any friends and you never will!”

For an instant, Veronica’s shoulders slumped, then a little hand grabbed hers and Mouse’s piping voice could be heard loud and clear. “I’M Veronica’s best friend and you’re all mean girls and I’m gonna get on base, so there!”

A big boo to Billie for her meanness and a really loud YAY to little Mouse for defending Veronica and saying she’s her best friend. Out of all the characters in the story these are the two that have grown the most during the story. My guess is that Mouse will get to a base as well ensuring that the bet is won.

Now what is so special about the sellotape ball that Faith has and how is it going to help Bettina? I suspect something sneaky going on here on Faith’s part. Does she have any more tricks up her sleeves to help the others?

Faith cut her off, “I call her Queen B for bitch, Red.” Faith thought it over, “Or maybe Queen C for cunt. Yeah, that’d work.” She smirked at Willow’s shocked expression then got serious. “Look, she was hammering you and I stepped in. End of story.”

Love the lack of respect that Faith has for Cordelia, and the protectiveness she has for her friends. Perhaps she should give some prune juice to Dogdelia.

The Kitten Army banner sounds fantastic and it even converts the usually cynical Devola, plus Mouse’s enthusiasm knowing that she’ll get to lead the Red’s on to the game creates a palpable sense of excitement so, even though I still have no idea about softball I look forward to the next chapter.

Awwww, I just loved the closing sequence to the story where they again confirmed their love for one another.

This has been such a sweet chapter after the angst of the last few episodes with some extra cuteness from Willow and Tara and Mouse and extra kudos to Veronica and Faith for each stepping up in defence of their friends. I just hope the reds win the big game, please prettty please.

[Grimm]

I'm sensing some dissention in the ranks. Is it possible that the brainless wonder (Harmony) could possibly go over to the other side?

I hate those little Cordettes about as much as I hate their leader. Perhaps you should have Mouse 'accidently' throw her bat during the game. It would be a hoot to read about a toothless (and bloody) Cordy or one of her little minions!

The board ate my feedback to the last chapter....Love the crossover.You are the architect of this most delicious inside joke and I bow down to your comedic supremacy !

ps. Don't work to hard!!!

[Ariel]

Brian AKA BuffyFan4ever:
Hey, welcome back!!!

Glad you liked Harmony and Queen C going at it – thanks!

GO KITTEN ARMY!!!! CAN'T WAIT.

Ohhh yeah!!!


Maggie AKA leonhart17:

Aww, they're so sweet! And I love Faith and the kids being devious. Very cute!

Glad it’s workin’ and more to come on both sides!

Thanks for reading!


faolan228:

KITTEN ARMY!!!

I am the Minister of Propaganda for the K.A. Just doing my duty, Ma’am!

The absolute faith these kids have for the girls is absolutely touching, I love it.

Wow, thanks!

“Look, she was hammering you and I stepped in. End of story.”
You nailed Faith in just two sentences.

Means a lot coming from you, love your Faith’s dialogue which also CRACKS ME UP!!!


Matty AKA Mgraham93:

Tara and Willow as Yogi and Boob Boob- "Lets see what we've got in this picnic basket."
"Milk honey and some weird coloured liquid."
"That's park ranger Finch's prune juice. We don't need that when we have Milk and Honey."

You slay me, dude! Glad you liked Tara-fying and weren’t YOU the one that suggested Finch was working for the mayor to select kid-snacks for his Ascension? That makes YOU the sick crazy, not me! (Of course I thought that was hilarious so that makes me . . . . hmmm. Choosing not to think about that now! Denial ain’t just a river in Egypt, ya know!)

Devola is just brilliant Oh, no, it wasn't the airplanes...it was Special agent Indigo Kane who killed the Beast.

Yes, kudos to Tina the KB indigokane who gave me permission to use her name – thanks, Tina! And so glad you like it, too!

Thanks for approving of Faith’s nicknames for Cordelia . .

*drum beat/several claps* Kitten Army!!! *drum beat/claps* Kitten Army!!! and repeat

And very happy you liked their goodnight sweetness. Love is #1 – thanks for reading and feedback!


fhiwda:

So...I'm thinking maybe that ball Faith through for B had a picture of Cordy's face on it or something...

NAILED IT!!! Great job! You and Wimpy got it!

I love how well you make the connections FEEL between the characters. I can literally lose myself in the imagery of it and FEEL what the characters are feeling. It's rather nice.

That really touched my heart. Thank you so much.

You’re right – Cordy IS a bad influence and the sooner the girls figure it out the happier (and healthier) they’ll be. Her Trifecta of Terror consists of Tizzie, Billie, and Kelly although Mo is a sullen little clot as well! Lulu, Celia, Delise, and Hannah are very decent and Tammy Pam thinks Harmony is a brain, so her issues are obvious but she isn’t mean, so that’s good!


zampsa19752001:
Yep, the Resistance has mounted its attack! And you named it!

Big yay for the appearance of the Kitten Army... I love their plan to psych out Bitch C's campers in the game...

Thanks for sticking with the story for so long!


Jessica AKA beautiful_love:

Aww. They're just so cute together. Love it. It's the perfect amount of young innocence and pure love.

Thank you!

The Cordelia and Harmony fight was funny. I don't think anyone would ever accuse Harmony of being brainy. And this is no exception.

Brace yourself – Harmony is actually RIGHT!!!

And as usual, the campers were adorable. All with their strategizing and everything. LOVED the kitten army. But that's the great thing, you just can't stop a kitten army. They will not be defeated. In my head that sound all powerful and Braveheart-esque.

Yes it does! And even if our little girls lose, the Kitten Army marches onward on it’s soft little padded feet! Stay tuned . . . and thanks for the feedback!


Lexi AKA True_Love:
Awwww, “Baby Lesbians in Love” Almost sounds like a very cute sit-com! Thanks for that, trying to make them that young is both a joy and a challenge, believe me! Very glad it works for you, value your opinion.

Glad you can enjoy the tid-bits, softball game etc., but I heard your message:

I can't take my mind off the fact that Tara still hasn't told Willow everything. There is still so much more for them to go through. I'm not sure how much time is left before camp ends, but I hope you don't wait till the last moment to have the big reveal and then send Tara packing. Willow would be completely distrought and panicked trying to think how to save Tara from the situation. Plus, sending Tara back to the hell hole without support, ugh!

It’s tough. I have written the big reveal and have also gotten advice from another very accomplished Kitten Writer who advises me NOT to have Tara share that very painful secret. I am honestly not sure where to go with that. This isn’t a game; I can see both points of view. Tara wants, frankly, to share the hurt and confusion – to be comforted and forgiven since a part of her believes she deserves it. Another part of her is deeply frightened over the idea of losing her mother and ending up with no family; and there is also deep shame over the whole situation and a horror of destroying Willow’s very real and very sweet innocence and Willow perhaps being injured if she attempts to intervene directly.

Hopefully, next update you will weave some of Tara's reveal into her conversations with Willow, even if it isn't everything. Pretty, pretty, please.

I really thought about this a lot and it inspired me to right the opening scene; Willow (unconsciously) putting various aspects of her life together. Tell me what you think if you get a chance. Really appreciate your reading and taking time to offer feedback!


Richard AKA Azirahael:

"We will we will rock you. We will we will rock you"

I'm gonna watch the game listening to Queen's "We will rock you." seems appropriate somehow. Talks about banners, blood on your face, big disgrace. oh yeah.

Wow, GREAT choice!!!

As much as my personal savagery wants to just say "Slay the other team", it ain't their fault that their leaders are assholes.

So i hope the reds win, i hope that after celebrating a righteous victory, they are nice to the other team.

And i hope that Cordelia and Harmony are dragged into the woods and thrashed with nettles and thistles for 10 straight hours.

You know, I like ALL of these ideas! You’re a twisted kinda guy, but that’s a good!

On another note, i agree with True_Love above: it might be best if Tara doesn't spill the whole story before camp ends. I say this because (as much as i like the idea of full disclosure) if Willow finds out what kind of hell Tara is walking back into, she might do something... Hasty. and ill thought-out. So big reveal just before camp ends=willow disaster. Though if she does find out, one thing Willow might say to Tara is "Put yourself in my place". Seems a bit backwards i know, but as bad as it is to walk into Tara's horrible situation, how much worse would it be to watch someone you love walk back into that horror, when they don't have to.

Which might be why Tara doesn't want to tell Willow, 'cos she knows that there's no Willow would let it lie and Tara's too afraid of the potential consequences to deal.

You’ve hit on a lot of real issues here, it is NOT easy for Tara to make that decision as to what is best for her or for Willow. All I can promise is that progress will be made and more revealed . . stay with me. Glad you liked the banner and spotted it . . . damn! I cant put ANYTHING over on you!


AstronSoul:
Your feedback WAS very sweet – thanks!

I'm glad Veronica is being more a team player I just hope it lasts, and mouse is so adorable. The teams plans to psych em out is precious and I hope it works!!

It is a wild ride and only just beginning – thanks for reading!

Keep an eye on Harmony . . . you might just get your wish!

Willow calling Tara, "My Tara" ooo makes me gush!!!! And the same at the very end when Tara whisper, "My Willow"

Yeah, W/T works its magic everywhere – thanks!


Wimpy:

OH OH!! I think I know what Faith did to the ball to help Bettina bat better. At least I hope that's what it is, cause that's a great motivation to just knock the crap outta the ball. Yes! Can't wait for that whole thing, and luckily I won't have to wait long - Yay!

You should know, you suggested ages ago that picturing someone’s face on the ball . . . etc. So congrats! You and fhiwda nailed it!

Harmony sticking up for herself against Cordy was a nice treat. Get them arguing amongst themselves is another great strategy.

And you guys gave it to me! Thanks again!

And I'm also glad to see Mouse to feel so important here, and also speaking up to those little bitches.

Glad to hear that – thanks! Mouse is one of the “growing” characters and she is learning something about friendship in this story. Appreciate the feedback!


Allie AKA Babbles4Twillow:
Update-y RtL goodness coming! YAY!!!

MURDELATING!!!! hahahahahahahahahahaha! Oh man! Once again, you have managed to make me laugh loud enough to wake up my roommate on my first night back home! YAYS!

LOVE making you And "murdelate" is a classic example of Devolian english - she used it to describe the very first game they played with the Queens, in part 12 or 13 or 14 - somewhere!

Veronica’s sitch IS sad, see what happens . . . and Mouse facing off with the big girls – she is getting braver, finding herself – glad you like it!

Kittens unite!!! Star power!!

<= speaks for itself!

Glad you liked, “Willow, my Willow.” They are so deeply, intensely in love. Two emotional, passionate, brilliant and amazing young women – how lucky that they have found each other! KB joy all the way!

Let's go Reds, let's go! Let's go Reds, let's go! YAY!

Thanks for the inspiration! And they’re off to a great start!


ashcrash71590:
First, thanks for de-lurking!

Glad you like the character interactions – keep coming back, there will be more!

I love that you have Harmony in it. Not many people put her in their stories and I always enjoy when she is

Well, buckle your seatbelt because Harmony has a moment and a few more to come. And write this down in your diary, because Harmony is RIGHT – stay tuned . . .


Rick AKA willowtaralover:

Loving the catty chat between Dogdelia and (Dis)Harmony and Dogdelia’s fear that in two weeks she’ll be drinking cheap beer and buying clothes at a K-Mart because Faith handled her year book.

Thank you and thank you again for the insult that I *YOINK*-ed for this post!

I just love and adore that you contrast the above with Willow and Tara waking up and being all with the loving, plus the two cute nicknames they have for each other Tare bear and Boob Boob

Glad you saw the contrast, definitely wanted that to happen – yay! :smile

Willow blushed. “I don’t know. I felt all growl-y sexy. I wanted to mark you, tell everyone you’re mine. You’re not mad, are you?”
Now why does the idea of Willow being all ‘growl-y sexy’ make me think of a certain redheaded pirate?

No idea! Besides, I took so many cold showers after reading that section from Red Rosenberg that I think I froze my brain! Whoa, hot time and THANK YOU!!! *howls like a wolf*

For an instant, Veronica’s shoulders slumped, then a little hand grabbed hers and Mouse’s piping voice could be heard loud and clear. “I’M Veronica’s best friend and you’re all mean girls and I’m gonna get on base, so there!”
A big boo to Billie for her meanness and a really loud YAY to little Mouse for defending Veronica and saying she’s her best friend. Out of all the characters in the story these are the two that have grown the most during the story. My guess is that Mouse will get to a base as well ensuring that the bet is won.

You’re dead right about the huge growth for Veronica and Mouse, overall they HAVE grown the most of all the girls.

The tape on the softball? Stay tuned . . . think of it as a motivational uh visual aid!

The Kitten Army banner sounds fantastic and it even converts the usually cynical Devola, plus Mouse’s enthusiasm knowing that she’ll get to lead the Red’s on to the game creates a palpable sense of excitement so, even though I still have no idea about softball I look forward to the next chapter.

Glad you approve of the Kitten Army banner as Minister of Propaganda for the Kitten Army, I am proud to spread the message! As for softball, I am struggling with a sort of very, very simple guide to the game for the next post. Too crazy busy for this one!

Awwww, I just loved the closing sequence to the story where they again confirmed their love for one another.

Thanks, is awesome !


Grimm:

I'm sensing some dissention in the ranks. Is it possible that the brainless wonder (Harmony) could possibly go over to the other side?

IS it possible? YOU tell me!

Love the crossover.You are the architect of this most delicious inside joke and I bow down to your comedic supremacy

*giggles modestly* Thank you, Great One!

I hate those little Cordettes about as much as I hate their leader. Perhaps you should have Mouse 'accidently' throw her bat during the game. It would be a hoot to read about a toothless (and bloody) Cordy or one of her little minions!

Whoa! Note to self: Do not piss off Finey_McFine’s Head of Security! Fascinating thought however . . .
P.S. From Amber with flowers to demon in the dark, yep, you’re scarin’ me! But I love it! Take care, darlin’ and thanks for the good wishes.

STORY TO FOLLOW (ALMOST) IMMEDIATELY!

[Ariel]

Feedback is golden and *YOINK-able* ideas are often used! Plenty of ‘em right here in this post!!! THANKS!!!

Title: How I Met Your Mother*
Author: Ariel
Email: blaziak@yahoo.com
Feedback: All feedback welcomed, specific input appreciated, harsh on me via PM
Rating: PG-13, a couple of naughty words and W/T light love, ratings will change depending on content
Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, but I love to take them for a ride!
Summary: A/U before season 1, the summer after Willow's freshman year with a large dose of Queen Cordelia at her bitchy best and teen-aged angst.
Special Thanks: To Sonya and Zampsa for their lovely insults to Harmony and to Rick for the name “Dogdelia.” So glad I get to use these – they appear here!
Special Thanks: AstronSoul, Lexi, Rick, and Wimpy for suggesting that Faith is trying to pit Harmony and Cordelia against each other – brilliant idea which I’m using now!

Author’s Note: Way harder than I thought! I have written play by play for the entire game which is more softball than anyone wants to read! So I am giving you the first full inning here to familiarize you with the players, then will speed ahead. Thanks for your patience! The game will be finished by Saturday at the latest! Thanks for your GREAT IDEAS many of which appear in this post and in the next!


*no connection to the sit-com of the same name


Thoughts are in italics.



Part 49: The Big Game


Tara was still sleeping when she first heard it: a sharp gasp rising to ragged breathing. She slid her arm around Willow’s waist and pulled her in close just as Willow’s eyes opened wide with terror. “No!” She blinked in confusion then saw Tara and clutched at her with shaking hands.


“W-willow. What is it?”


“A dream. No, more of the nightmare-y kind. You, you were like two years old, like my Great Aunt Adele was. I wanted to save you and you were holding your arms up like you wanted me to pick you up. Then I saw your eyes go wide. And I knew, knew that something evil was coming up behind me but I couldn’t turn around, couldn’t see who it was. I tried but it was like my feet were stuck then sand poured down, black glittery sand like from an hourglass but it separated us, pushed us apart and I couldn’t move and I saw you – buried in the sand.” Willow’s eyes filled with tears, “You were dying, I knew it and I couldn’t save you!” Willow buried her face in Tara’s neck.


Then Tara’s tightened their embrace and her hands were on Willow’s back, tracing warm circles with the palms of her hands and kissing the top of her head. “I’m h-here, Willow.”


“But I couldn’t s-save you!”


Tara’s voice was so soft that Willow squirmed up so that her ear rested near Tara’s lips, “You h-have. You did.” Willow sensed her lover’s neck bend and strained to hear the shy whisper, “Y-you love me.”


Willow held Tara even closer, grateful for the warm shelter of her lover’s arms but the vestiges of her dream remained; she could still see the sand, the glittering darkness, and she felt herself shiver.


When she heard their girls stirring in the next room, she was relieved to start the day.

*************************************************

The morning was all about softball. Hair styles were carefully analyzed for stability so that a stray lock of hair wouldn’t escape and ruin a crucial play. Strategies, batting orders, and random bits of information were repeated over and over again.


Devola’s spoke up, “I got all my cheers done,” she announced proudly, clutching a smudged, much folded piece of paper in her hand, “And we can do ‘em at breakfast.”


Mouse bounced with excitement and grabbed at the precious paper but Devola snatched it away and leaped into her version of a martial arts stance. “Watch out, kid! I know Cat-fu!” Devola yowled and began swiping the air with curved fingers while Mouse jumped back, impressed with the display of ferocity.


Tara sensed trouble ahead and held out her hand. Devola sighed and handed over the paper, watching anxiously while Tara deciphered her seven year old attempts at spelling.


Tara was smiling, but her voice was firm. “The cheers about decapitation, murder, and guts all have to go.”


“But, but Tara!” Devola sputtered, “those are my best ones!”


Tara ignored her, “And I’m not sure about this one either.” She pointed and Devola snatched the paper out of her hand. “No, listen Tara! Listen, it’s really nice. You sing it, see? It’s like that song, that round ‘Fish and Chips and Vinegar’ that we sing around the campfire but with new words.” Devola sang:


Take the train to Loserville, to Loserville, to Loserville
Take the train to Loserville and cry in your pillow
‘cause you got your butts kicked, your butts kicked, your butts kicked
‘cause you got your butts kicked by Tara and Willow!


Mouse was shocked, “You said a bad word!” However most of the other girls clapped wildly and Willow giggled in spite of herself.


Devola was eager to please, “What if I changed ‘butt’ to ‘rump’?”


Tara looked at Willow who was attempting to stifle her laughter and Willow caught her co-counselor’s glance and spoke up. “Nope. It’s gotta go!”


Devola scowled, “Oh Moon!”


Tara looked again at the paper, reading both sides carefully, before smiling at Devola. “These are really good, Devola. Just get rid of the four I mentioned.”


Devola looked mutinous, but Towanda stepped in. “Do it, Dev. Remember when the Queens did that mean cheer on us? Lawanna was pretty mad.”


Connie nodded, “You don’t wanna piss off the umpire or swear at him or slug him either,” she said virtuously.


Now it was Tara’s turn to giggle, “I remember you telling us that.”

*************************************************

Another hot day.


Willow, Tara, and Faith were all relieved that the afternoon rides would be cancelled and swimming made available for everyone until half an hour before game time.


At the end of their last morning ride, Faith mumbled an excuse about needing to dress for the game and left the two lovers alone in the barn.


Once again Willow offered Tara the silver metal cup full of ice water and Tara drank gratefully before walking into Willow’s arms for a kiss.


Willow giggled when they broke apart. “Frozen kisses!” She pretended to think it over, “There has to be a market for them somewhere.”


Tara sighed and put her full lips against Willow’s in a soft kiss. “Mmmm. I don’t care about a market as long as you want some.”


Willow grinned and kissed Tara on the nose, “I do!” she answered, “All of ‘em,” but the words came out muffled as their third kiss began.

*************************************************

Tara made sure everyone drank plenty of water and ate a good lunch, then there was time to relax in their cabin and rest before the big game. Then it was time to change into their uniforms and wait for their coach.


Faith arrived, proudly sporting a Boston Red Sox baseball cap. She tipped her cap with a cocky smile then they assembled outside. Next she and Tara raised the Kitten Army banner high and the girls skipped out onto the field and up to the Queens in their awesomely dirty uniforms, all part of their magical victory strategy.


The Queens stared then began laughing. Then Mouse, who was too little to understand the idea of ‘psyching someone out’ decided it was up to her to frighten the Queens. “Watch out!” she yelled, “We know Cat-fu!” Then the chubby little girl imitated Devola’s martial arts stance and began meowing fiercely and clawing the air. Then she looked at Willow, her brown eyes pleading for support.


Willow searched her soul. Cat-fu, me, here and now, meowing like a maniac in front of two girls who I actually go to school with OR not doing it and—she met Mouse’s eyes disappointing a little girl who loves me. Suddenly Willow leapt into a crouch and found herself performing Cat-fu along with Mouse. A moment later the other girls began ‘Cat-fu-ing’ as the Kitten Army leapt to the attack.


The Queens froze for an instant then literally screamed, howled and fell into helpless spasms of laughter with Tizzie and Billie leaning against each other and Kelly on her hands and knees banging the ground.


Then the Reds stopped and automatically stood closer, drawing strength from each other as their marching chant began and grew in power:


We are the Reds.
We are the Reds.
The mighty, mighty Reds.
The mighty, mighty Reds.
Everywhere we go
Everywhere we go
People want to know
People want to know
Who we are
Who we are
We are the Reds.
We are the Reds.
The mighty, mighty Reds!
THE MIGHTY, MIGHTY REDS!


The last line finished with a shout of triumph and the girls applauded and cheered each other while the Queens milled about, now making faces and muttering insults.

*************************************************

Lawanna was within a few moments of starting her pre-game talk when Faith jerked Tara by the elbow and pulled her aside. “T. I got this. It’s called ‘hooking the mark’. Just stand by my side and let me call the play. I’ll handle Queen C. Trust me, we gotta do this.”


Faith walked up to Lawanna, Tara a half-step behind her while Cordelia and Harmony hurried over to glare at Faith. Cordelia spoke, “What’s on your so-called mind, Faith?”


Faith smiled, offering a predatory show of flashing teeth that was meant to be a friendly smile then she bent her head in an awkward pretense of humility. “Hey, everybody knows Mouse has struck out every time. She’s a little kid and I wanted to make you a deal. Let us bench her and just play you with 8 kids. We’re willing to sacrifice right field coverage.”


Tara opened her mouth to protest, then caught Faith’s glance and remained silent.


Cordelia snapped her manual open and jabbed a manicured nail into the correct passage. “It says 9 players per team or you forfeit.”


Lawanna spoke, “Later it says that coaches can agree to a number change and it gives some guidelines on how to make it work.” She looked calmly at Cordelia. “Do you agree to play them if they only put 8 players on the field?”


“No! Either the little mouse plays or they forfeit and we win.”


Harmony grabbed at Cordelia’s sleeve. “Cordy, say yes! Eight is less than nine and nine is better!”


Cordelia rolled her eyes. “But Mouse strikes out every time and that helps us.”


Harmony raised her hand up, counting on her fingers, “But I know that nine is more than eight!”


“Please, don’t keep embarrassing yourself with random attempts at intelligence.”


Harmony frowned, “What’s THAT supposed to mean?”


“I’ll put it into little bitty words for the hard-of-thinking: you have the brain of a dead battery!”


Harmony gasped and fired back, “And you’re a bitch, ‘Dogdelia’!”


Cordelia snapped back, “If I’m a bitch, then you’re my lap mutt!” Then Cordy straightened, “And I’m still head coach!” She glared at Faith. “The little mouse plays or you forfeit. That’s it!”


Faith heaved a fake sigh then looked away to conceal her smile. “Okay, I had to ask.” She walked out of hearing range, and shot Tara a grin of triumph, “Got her!”


Meanwhile Lawanna had pulled both Cordelia and Harmony aside for a serious talk about sportsmanship.

*************************************************

A few minutes later, Lawanna called the two teams and their coaches together and repeated the facts that the infield fly rule and the third strike rule did not apply to camp softball as well as the innings lasting three outs per side or fifteen minutes, whichever came first. She spoke again about the necessity of batting helmets, the need to keep hydrated and avoid blocking the base paths. Then she called the team captains over and Towanda and Tizzie stood glaring at each other.


Lawanna looked at both captains. “Okay, you’ve each had a chance to bat last so camp rules say we do a coin toss and the team who lost the last game calls it in the air. Ready?”


Tizzie nodded and the quarter shone as it flipped up into the air. “Heads,” Tizzie shouted. Then they peered down when the quarter landed.


Lawanna spoke, “Tails it is. Towanda, do you want your team batting first or last.”


Towanda didn’t hesitate, “Last!”


“Okay, Coaches please hand over your batting cards. Reds take the field for a five minute warm up, Queens get ready to bat.”


Cordelia and Willow handed passed over the batting cards and Lawanna looked at them briefly before shoving them in her back pants pocket.


The Queens
Tizzie Stilton (pitcher)
Billie Candelaria (1st base)
Delise Kinnemukka (3rd base)
Maureen Morrison (right field)
Lulu Ballard (short stop)
Hannah Matsuishi (2nd base)
Tammy Pam Carter (left field)
Celia Thomas (center field)
Kelly Leblonski (catcher)

The Reds
Veronica Chase (short stop)
Elizabeth Lianne (right field)
Lisa Alexander (1st base)
Connie Ferguson (2nd base)
Towanda Torkelson (pitcher)
Debbie Oppenheim (left field)
Kate Ritter (3rd base)
Devola Darcy (left field)
Bettina Alighieri (catcher)


Faith gathered the girls in. “Listen up. The Queens are tough,” the girls nodded seriously, then Faith flashed her wicked grin, “So that makes beating their sorry butts a LOT more fun!”


There were a couple of shocked gasps, then the girls laughed and suddenly started cheering and stomping and screaming.


Faith nodded, “You bring the fire and the Queens’ll get burned!”


The girls yelled again, jumping up and down with excitement.


“So every one of us has to kick it out there. Right now they’re batting, so what’s gonna happen?”


Towanda stepped forward, “I’m gonna call every play; say where the force is and other stuff too.”


Lisa nodded, “And if Towanda forgets, I’ll say it.”


Faith looked around, “Infielders?”


Devola, Connie, and Lisa chanted, “On the balls of our feet, ready to move, makin’ the play and findin’ the groove!”


“Pitcher?”


“Charge off the mound as soon as the ball leaves my hand!”


“Catcher?”


Bettina spoke, “Watch for pop-ups and when someone throws me the ball I look it into my mitt and make the catch. THEN I make the play.”


“Outfielders?”


Veronica and Debbie answered and Mouse nodded agreement, “Ready to run. Run up on grounders then stop and make the catch. Find my cut-off girl and throw to her unless I know I can do it.”


“What about fly balls?”


Debbie giggled, “Oh yeah, run over and look up but keep my mitten or glove or whatever where I can see it, not up behind my head.”


Towanda rolled her eyes, “’Mitten’?”


Connie giggled.


Faith cut in, “Hey, she can call it anything she wants as long as she catches with it!” She smiled at Debbie and the shortest seven-year-old on the team stood taller and smiled back.


Faith jerked her head in the direction of the field, “Warm-up you guys!” Next Faith beckoned to Veronica and Towanda to stay while Willow and Tara cheered the fielders on and called out the warm ups.


Faith spoke quietly to Veronica, “I have you down as shortstop on the line-up card.”


Veronica stared down at her shifting feet. “I can’t,” she whispered.


Faith nodded. “I’ll tell Lawanna.”


Veronica was twisting her fingers together, “But I could take center and back up Debbie and Mouse. I – I could do a good job there.”


Faith’s voice came out harsher than she’d meant it to, “You could, but will you?”


Veronica nodded miserably. “I will, I promise.”


Faith softened and patted the little girl’s shoulder. “Okay, kid. Knock ‘em dead!” She watched Veronica jog out to center field then quickly told Lawanna about the change and turned at last to her pitcher. “Okay, Towanda. You got three sluggers: Lulu, Billie, and Kelly. Take an extra breath and think about every pitch you throw to those guys. If I signal you by tipping my cap like this it means to walk the batter on purpose. You got it?”


Towanda’s mouth thinned, “I wanna strike ‘em out!”


“I know, kid. But this is slow pitch so do like I tell you.”


Towanda nodded reluctantly and Faith slapped her on the back. “Good! Now listen up, read the practice swings. None of you kids does fake-out practice swings, so look at how they’re swinging and give them a little bit off from what they want. You judge what you’ll throw, but also watch where Bettina is holding her mitt and aim for that. Watch Billie and Kelly, they both hit wicked line drives and don’t let them get up under a good pitch. And the other thing, Mo Morrison hasn’t been hitting good but she’s a big kid; if she throws her weight behind the right pitch, she can blast it out of sight so watch her, too. Last thing. You’re the Captain: be a leader.”


Towanda nodded, proud of her responsibility, but an anxious look came into her eyes and she leaned up to whisper in Faith’s ear, “Are we gonna win?”


Faith gave her a quick one-armed hug, “Hell, yeah! I didn’t wear my great grandpa’s Boston Red Sox cap to lose! Now climb up on that mound and kick some ass, uh moon, whatever!”


Towanda grinned and bumped fists, “You got it, Coach!” Then she ran off to the pitcher’s mound.

*************************************************

Lawanna checked her watch, saw that Hallie was in position between first and second and behind the baseline and called out. “Balls in!” She waited for the balls to be thrown in, then licked her lips and shouted, “Batter up” then “Play ball!” A second later she clicked her stopwatch.


Tizzie Stilton walked up and paused just outside the batter’s box to stare balefully at Towanda who unconsciously flinched but tried to conceal it by pretending to loosen her shoulders. Tizzie smirked, knowing that she had the edge.


High and outside. “Ball one.”


Tizzie grinned with an air of exaggerated patience and used her hand to outline the strike zone.


Towanda flushed and gritted her teeth.


Inside. “Ball two.”


Towanda bobbled Bettina’s return throw then looked up to see Faith grin and wink at her. Faith rolled her eyes in Tizzie’s direction and Towanda felt herself smile. She took a deep breath and threw the ball in for a flatter pitch.


“Strike one.”


Towanda grinned and let fly another strike. When Tizzie’s bat whipped around Towanda’s glove was already in the air but the ball bounced off the thumb and zipped between first and second base with Hallie running back to avoid interfering with the play while Connie raced from second, scooped up the ball on the run and fired it to Lisa just as Tizzie flew past.


Hallie made the call. “Safe at first!”


Towanda bit her lip then shook it off and faced Billie who had hit line drives in the previous two games they had played.


Billie sauntered up, calling to Tizzie, “Hey, Tizz – see you at home!”


Tizzie smirked in return.


Faith eyed Billie then shouted, “Go deep!” and the outfielders moved back.


Tizzie giggled and Towanda felt her face burning. Then she breathed in and released the first pitch.


“Strike one.”


Billie swung hard at Towanda’s second pitch and another line drive punched right through the hole between Towanda and Connie. Veronica ran up to field the grounder and fired it to Connie on second.


“Safe at second.” Tizzie giggled and waved from second and Towanda clenched her jaw before facing the next batter.


Del Kinnemukka stepped up and hit the first pitch, another jack rabbit of a ball that went straight to Devola. Devola caught it on the bounce, bobbled the catch but neglected to stamp the bag and instead threw it to first, but her arm wasn’t strong enough and Del beat the throw.


Connie couldn’t stand it. “Devola, you dope! You should’ve stepped on third base! Then Tizzie would have been out!”


Tizzie, safe on third base, called back to Connie. “Hey, be nice to my new best friend!” She gave Devola a big phony smile and patted her on the shoulder, “Nice job, Devola! Thanks!”


Devola made a face, “Moon off!”


Lisa spoke up, “Towanda, you want me to call the plays?”


“Oh moon! I mean ‘no’, I got it! Okay, force on any base and home plate.”


Maureen Morrison lumbered up to the plate and Towanda braced herself. The first pitch was a ball that Mo left alone, the next pitch was a strike that Maureen swung at and missed.


Devola yelled, “Down the line, Towanda! Send ‘er down the line!”


Towanda grinned, loosened her shoulders and let fly. Then Mo swung and the ball boomed off her bat past Veronica in center field. Veronica sprinted after the ball and threw it to third, holding the slow-moving Maureen at second, but allowing Tizzie, Billie, and Delise to score.


Faith looked grimly at Willow and Tara. “Now we know what Coach Wynn worked on: Batting, nothing but batting.” Then she shouted, “Okay guys, now you’re warmed up. Shut ‘em down!”


Towanda nodded. “Okay, force on first, only on first base!” Then she focused on Lulu Ballard who was stepping into the batter’s box, her practice swings a blur. Towanda wiped her eyes, but Lulu’s bat speed stayed the same. She shook it off and fired a low pitch which Lulu smacked into a wicked little grass cutter that sped straight to Connie who scooped it up and whipped it to Lisa who barely had to move off first base to make the catch.


“Out on first!” Meanwhile Mo had broken for third and Lisa heaved the pitch to Devola who dropped it but Katie scooped it off the ground and ran to third. Mo stopped as Kate began advancing with the ball in her hand and turned to run back to second. Kate hurled the ball to Connie who caught it and ran towards Mo who whirled around and headed for third again. Both teams were screaming. Connie threw back to Kate while Devola wisely stayed out of the way. Mo turned back to second and both basewomen began advancing on her. When Kate sent the ball speeding back, Connie snagged it and was able to run Mo down and tag her with the ball.


“Out!”


The Reds broke into cheers.


“Okay!” Towanda was gasping from the excitement, but she didn’t notice. “Two outs! Play is on first!”


Lisa joined in, “Come on, you guys! Let’s nail it!”


Hannah Matsuishi walked slowly to home plate. She was only four or five inches taller than Mouse and Towanda’s hands tensed as she attempted to zero in on the strike zone.


“Ball one.”


Hannah simply stood there, not moving.


“Ball two.”


Towanda bit her lip and took another deep breath and imagined bowling with her Moms and laying the ball right down the alley.


“Strike one.”


“Strike two.”


Towanda rubbed the sweat off her forehead and the ball seemed to slip in her hand, releasing slow.


“Ball three.”


Same thing with the last pitch.


“Ball four, take your base.”


Towanda stamped her feet on the mound as if to shake the dirt off but really because she was furious with herself.


Then Tammy Pam Carter stepped into the batter’s box, only to step out to remove her batting gloves and gaze anxiously at one of her fingernails. “I think that new polish is chipping!”


Towanda felt the strain leave her in a wild burst of laughter while Tammy Pam glared at her and sniffed, “That was expensive polish, you know!” Tammy Pam sighed, ignored Cordelia’s furious instructions and swung at the first and second pitches. She connected purely by chance on the third pitch but the ball went straight to Towanda who lobbed it to Lisa on first for an easy out.


Hallie called Tammy Pam out and Lawanna spoke up. “Queens, take the field for a few minutes to warm up and Reds get ready to bat!”


Faith called them all together, “Tough inning, huh?”


They nodded.


“But you hung in there! Never stopped workin’ it. Okay, on batting. Watch the ball all the way in, if it’s in the strike zone, keep your eyes on the prize and swing all the way through.” She grinned, what do you do when you hit the ball?”


The team grinned and chanted, “Don’t be lookin’, gotta get cookin’!”


Faith laughed. “That’s right. Hit and run!”


Willow stepped in, “Speaking of run-y goodness—“


Tara slid her arm around Willow’s waist and grinned, “Get some!” She looked at Devola, “How about a cheer?”


Devola smiled, “Okay, let’s do ‘Dynamite’!” The girls nodded and clumped even closer to shout:

We got the might! We’re right! We’re mooning dynamite!
Heavy blasters, Queen’s disasters
Gotta fight! Fight! Fight!

Admit it! (clap) Begin it! (clap) The Reds are here to win it!
Gooooooooooo Reds! Gooooooooooo Reds!


Then they finished their shout with hugs and friendly punches all around.


“Okay.” They went still at the sound of Lawanna’s voice, “Batter up!”


Veronica walked slowly and stood just outside the batter’s box. The sun was hot and she was sweating, but her hands were cold somehow. She looked at Tara and Willow smiling at her, waving at her. She gulped and looked away to see Cordelia’s brown eyes burning into her hazel ones. She swallowed and stepped into the batter’s box.


Tizzie’s first pitch was straight across the plate, she stood unmoving.


“Strike one.”


The next pitch was close, probably outside, but she swung at it.


“Strike two.”


Tizzie was smirking at her, the last pitch was deliberately low as if to mock her and Veronica felt a surge of angry pleasure in refusing to swing when Tizzie and her cousin expected her to.


“Ball one.”


Tizzie’s eyes narrowed and her shoulders tensed with anger. She threw again, high and outside, and Veronica shut her eyes against the tears and swung.


“Strike three.”


Tizzie was grinning and Veronica swiped the back of her hand across her eyes before turning to walk back to her team.


Towanda pushed her on the shoulder, “You cheated!”


Mouse stared up at Veronica imploringly, “Veronica, you didn’t, did you?”


Veronica looked away then felt a tear slip down her cheek when Mouse walked over and held her hand anyway. Then Lisa and Kate stood by her, too while the others moved away.


Willow walked up to Faith while Tara walked towards Veronica to comfort the little girl. “Faith, what happened?”


Faith sighed. “Veronica just split the team down the middle.”


“So where does that put us?”


Faith offered the ghost of a grin, “Up Shit Creek without a paddle, Red.”


Willow’s head came up with a jerk. “Oh no, it doesn’t!”


Faith looked curiously at Willow’s expression. “What’s up, Red?”


Willow straightened slowly. “It’s my ‘resolve face’ taking effect,” she said impressively.


Faith snorted with laughter, but Willow had begun her march to destiny and didn’t even notice.


Tara watched her approach, “Willow?”


“Take Mouse and Veronica over there for just a minute.”


“But Mouse is up.”


“I just need a minute, but call ‘time out’ if you have to.” Tara obeyed and Willow beckoned to gather the other girls around her. “Okay, You know what Cordelia is like, right? Well, I grew up with her! She is all with the bullying-badness and Veronica is scared to play because of her. You understand?”


The girls nodded, big eyed.


“Veronica is going to play her best out on the field, but you need to handle all the batt-y stuff. So you need to bat even better and we need to coach even better because Cordy is not – winning – this – game! Got it?”


The girls nodded, smiling this time.


“Okay, who’s up next?”


Mouse came forward.


Willow leaned down to her littlest camper. “Can you get on base, Mouse?”


Mouse nodded. “Faith showed me.”


Faith walked up, smiling. “That’s right, stand all squatty frog and—“


Willow gasped, her face white, “You said the ‘F’ word!”


Faith threw up her hands in frustration, “I didn’t say ‘fuck’,” she said loudly, “I said ‘frog’!”


Willow blanched again.


“Hey, Red! I bust my ass talking nice around here and—“ Faith looked around at the little girls staring up at her and noted the stunned silence then heard the soft tweet of a bird and the sizzle of the skin frying off her face in the mightiest blush of her life. Then she started over, “I’m sorry, okay? Mouse, stand kinda bunched up like I showed you.”


Mouse grinned, “Stand ‘squatty froggy’ and I’ll get on base!”


Willow whimpered and Faith shook her head in amazement.


Lawanna raised her voice, “Batter up!”


Faith double checked the buckle on Mouse’s batting helmet and Mouse gave her a sudden hug before taking the offered bat and walking over to the batter’s box.


Okay. Squatty froggy, hop hop hop! The little girl giggled, but not really ‘cause you’re not supposed to hop with a bat.


Tizzie stared at the little girl whose mind seemed elsewhere and threw the first pitch.


“Ball one.”


Tizzie tensed, shaking her head to loosen her neck, then focused and threw again.


“Ball two.” It was unbelievable. She bore down so hard her hand was shaking.


“Ball three.”


“Ball four.”


“Take your base.”


The Reds erupted into cheers for their littlest team-mate and Mouse beamed back happily.


Then Lawanna looked down at Mouse who looked backed up, blinking, and said kindly, “You can go to first base now.”


Then Cordelia and Harmony called ‘time out’ then rushed over while Willow, Tara and Faith raced on an intercept path so that they all met up by Lawanna.


Cordy lashed out, “She’s cheating! She didn’t even try to hit the ball!”


Mouse looked up, “I’m not cheating! I stood just like Faith told me to!”


Lawanna shot Faith a knowing glance, then looked calmly at Cordelia. “There is nothing against the rules about trying for a walk. Faith offered to take Mouse out of the game and you insisted that she play. So she plays, that’s it.” She turned and faced the field, clearly dismissing Cordelia. “Play ball!


Mouse smiled and clapped her hands, “Oh goody! Goody! I’m going to first base!” She began skipping to first then hopped up and down on the base itself, unable to contain her joy while Billie ground her teeth, not able to say anything with Tara acting as the first base coach.


Then Tara reminded Mouse to be ready to run with her back foot touching the base while Lisa stepped up to the plate.


Lisa smiled, still happy over Mouse’s walk, and sent the first pitch slamming over the shortstop’s head. The ball raced just between Tammy Pam’s legs and Lisa used her long legs to stretch her single into a double with the Reds screaming for joy.


Connie and Tizzie exchanged looks. The first pitch was high and Connie let it go. The second was a strike and Connie hit a medium speed grounder straight to Tizzie who snagged the ball and threw it to first base. Lisa, was about to sprint to third, but Faith signaled her to stay since Mouse was the slowest runner on the team.


“Out on first.”


Connie sighed and headed back but managed a slug in the arm to encourage Towanda.


Towanda swung her bat ferociously, then remembered to breathe and focus. A moment later she stepped into the batter’s box and locked eyes with Tizzie.


Tizzie’s first pitch rolled along the ground, a deliberate insult.


Faith couldn’t resist, “Won’t to pitch to you, Towanda. Smart move!”


Tizzie’s lip curled into a sneer and she laid a perfect strike right across the plate just as Towanda whipped her bat around and blasted a line drive that landed between left and center field.


Mouse raced home, “I went home! I went home!”


Lisa, the team’s fastest runner, was only five steps behind her and scored, too. Both of them were mobbed by screaming team-mates while Towanda perched on third, ready to score their third run and tie the game.


Devola, meanwhile, shouted a cheer in Towanda’s honor:

She did it! (clap) Admit it! (clap) The girl can really hit it!
She unleashed her master blast
And our old score is in the past!
Gooooooooo Reds! Gooooooooo Reds!


Debbie stepped up to the plate and everyone automatically crossed their fingers.


“Ball one.”


“Strike one.”


Debbie then swung and hit a foul ball to cheers from her team-mates.


“Strike two.”


“Way to go, Deb!”


“You got a piece of it!”


Willow joined in, “Come on Deb-ster! Watch the ball and make with the hit-y!”


There was a long series of foul balls and the team was cheering and shouting encouragement.


Then finally, Deb swung and the ball bounced a few feet ahead of home plate then spun backwards and rolled into foul territory. Debbie sprinted to screams from her team-mates while Kelly jumped out of her crouch and scrambled for the ball but accidentally kicked it farther away.


Towanda scored and Debbie rounded first seeing Tara’s wind milling arm and ran faster than she’d ever run in her life meanwhile Kelly had bent over and grabbed the ball. The big catcher cocked her arm and fired the ball to Hannah on second who started to lower her hands for the tag, just as Debbie tripped and ended up flying under the tag to land flat on her face with her right hand touching second base.


“Safe.”


The Reds jumped up and down and screamed then Devola led them in another cheer:

She won the race, race, race!
Up to the base, base, base!
To win first place, place, place!
Yaaaaaaaaaay Deb! Yaaaaaaaaaay Deb!


Kelly was furious over her error, “You’re not in first place! You tied! And it’s only the first inning, so shut up!”


Kate wiped her hands nervously along the sides of her pants then felt arms around her and looked up into Willow’s smile. “Is your stomach all acid-y?”


Kate nodded.


“Are you scared?”


Kate nodded again then felt Willow’s arms go around her in an even bigger hug. “I get scared, too, Kate, but the scared-y feeling is really just adrenaline waiting to be used.”


“What’s adrenaline?”


“It’s a kind of super strength chemical and you’ve got it inside you right now.” She gave Kate another hug. “So it’s okay to be scared. Just do your best, okay?”


Kate smiled. “Okay.”


Cordelia was about to start complaining and Lawanna headed her off, “Batter up!”


Kate took another deep breath then squared her shoulders and stepped into the batter’s box.


The first pitch was on the low side of the strike zone and Kate brought the bat around slammed a grounder straight through the hole between shortstop and second base. Tammy Pam stared at the ball but seemed content to stand by while Celia raced after it. Celia snatched the ball off the ground, spun and fired a shot all the way to home plate, even though Debbie was approaching third base.


Kelly, burning to avenge her previous error, speared the ball and fired it to third but threw it a few feet into foul territory. Faith waved Debbie home while Kate landed safe on second and was signaled to stop.


The Reds were exultant. They had practiced to win, planned to win, and were burning to win but it had never seemed possible until now.


Lawanna actually had to yell twice to get Devola’s attention before Devola picked up her bat and headed to the batter’s box.


Kelly lowered her voice to a careful whisper, “Dumb-ola! Stupid, Dumb-ola! THAT’S all you are!”


Devola’s voice was sweet. “We are, you know.”


“Are what?”


“Winning!”


Devola was over eager, connecting with a high pitch for a pop-up fly. Lulu Ballard called it and made the catch easily.


“Out. Reds, take the field and warm-up. Queens, get ready to bat.”


The Reds refreshed themselves with hugs all around and a quick cup of water from the water container placed for everyone’s use.


It was the end of the first inning, they were winning and they raced out onto the field yelling with excitement and ready to face their rivals.

*************************************************

Tara was grinning, bouncing on the balls of her feet like a taller, blonde version of Willow. She glanced over and swung her lover’s hand in hers, “Why aren’t you cheering? It’s great! We’re winning!”


Willow smiled a little uneasily. “I’m all with the happy, really I am! But I grew up with Cordelia.” She paused, “And believe me, this is just the beginning.”


TBC

[AstronSoul]

Dibs!

YES THE GAME!!!

I love how they come in, and it's good to see all of them kinda nervous but they are having fun and winning (so far).

The little praises here and there from Faith Willow and Tara really pay off as well as all the girls, always a great support system.

Even though they are winning and I am glad the Umpire is keeping it fair even though Queen Bitch's dad paid her. I just know Cordelia has something up her sleeve and I know it won't be good. I hope the Umpire has enough integrity to see through her shit and that Willow stays cool.

Loved this I need more!!!

~AS~

[leonhart17]

Aww, I feel kind of bad for Harmony (which is a surprise) but it seems like she might be willing to jump teams (or at least could be swayed into some light betrayal) But Willow's warning at the end has me nervous...

And I see that you're reading some of my stuff on ff.net - thanks! You went straight for the oldest, most cringe-worthy stuff, didn't you? I'm just kidding, I'm really glad that you're enjoying it!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I loved the march of the Kitten Army and their Cat-Fu is Strong... Big lol for Dogdelia and her Lap Mutt arguing... Extra big yay for Mouse getting not only to base but home as well... I'm worried about what underhanded dirty tricks Bitch C (aka Dogdelia) has in her sleeve... I truly hope the umpire sees that and declares Queens cheaters (again)...

[fhiwda]

And you just leave me hangin'?! Ouch...

haha...great update! I wish I could say more for you, but I'm at the work place so I don't have a lot of time.

Just...awesome...and please don't keep me waiting too horribly long.

[Babbles4Twillow]

Cat-fu!!! genius!! I really liked the "mooning dynamite"! Its great how the "bad words" are being said all over the place in this update. Faith-blush!!! LMFAO!

Devola’s voice was sweet. “We are, you know.”


“Are what?”


“Winning!”

Great twist on my favorite quote!! Love this...CANNOT wait for more!!! I'm all balls-of-feet bouncy too!

ETA: I was out for dinner with my 2 yr old god-daughter, and when we were out in the parking lot, she turned her head up and yelled, "Moon!" Of course, my mind completely ignored the fact that she was actually looking at the moon and cracked up laughing thinking of the "curse word". Everyone was looking at me wondering why I was laughing so hard at that one word...which only made me laugh harder. Thank you so much for this fic which has brought so much laughter into my life!

[Mgraham93]

Yay for update-y goodness,

The dream- Wow the start sounded like a premonition about Glory. seperated by sands of time a subconcious fear that after camp they'll lose each other, as well as the fact that Tara still has the secret as a burden buried within. The dark figure, Tara's father? Or another villian. The fact that Willow couldn't see who it was really added to the anxiety about the dream for me. as well it really made sense her not being able to see. because at the minute she knows something has caused Tara to think she's evil so at the minute there's no image for her to associate with the badness just that theres something bad. Well atleast that was my interpretation of the dream

“You h-have. You did.” Willow sensed her lover’s neck bend and strained to hear the shy whisper, “Y-you love me.”

Even bad dreams are good when the talk about them ends like this.

It's funny how many cat fu pics there are on LoLcats =)

the team chants were fantastic they really help set the atmosphere

“Okay, You know what Cordelia is like, right? Well, I grew up with her! She is all with the bullying-badness and Veronica is scared to play because of her. You understand?”

The girls nodded, big eyed.

“Veronica is going to play her best out on the field, but you need to handle all the batt-y stuff. So you need to bat even better and we need to coach even better because Cordy is not – winning – this – game! Got it?”

Phew I'm glad Willow was able to get the team back together

Willow gasped, her face white, “You said the ‘F’ word!”

Faith threw up her hands in frustration, “I didn’t say ‘fuck’,” she said loudly, “I said ‘frog’!”

Willow blanched again.

“Hey, Red! I bust my ass talking nice around here and—“ Faith looked around at the little girls staring up at her and noted the stunned silence then heard the soft tweet of a bird and the sizzle of the skin frying off her face in the mightiest blush of her life. Then she started over, “I’m sorry, okay? Mouse, stand kinda bunched up like I showed you.”

Mouse grinned, “Stand ‘squatty froggy’ and I’ll get on base!”

Willow whimpered and Faith shook her head in amazement.

That was brilliant reminds me of Lily in the other How I Met Your Mother and the word moist .

Also here's some more crazy. When Devola yelled "Winning!” I thought of Charlie Sheen because winning!

Can't wait for the next update

P.S The Softball is just brilliant at primary school from about March till the end of July we played Rounders twice a week for P.E so this fic is bringing back really happy memories big thank you for that.

[faolan228]

Ah, a touching moment between Tara and Willow to start off the day. lol that should be a requirement now.

THE GAME THAT WE'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR!!!!

Gotta agree with Babbles, that twist on the legendary 'what' quote is my fave.

Willow's ending line is both adorable and ominous.

[beautiful_love]

Well that was a pretty quick update. Awesome!

Very cute moment between the two of them at the beginning. Poor Willow. Good thing Tara was there to comfort her and make it all better.

The game, so far, has been awesome. I have to admit, sometimes I can't read stuff like this where it's play by play. I see something shiny and I become distracted and can't finish. Totally not the case here. You're doing a really good job though. I love all the girls and their cheers. It's awesome! I was so happy when they took the lead. And I'm glad Willow took the initiative to talk to the girls about Veronica. Poor kid. She's in such a crappy spot. And this whole thing between Cordelia and Harmony is so funny. Hoping Cordelia gets more of what's coming to her.

All in all, awesome update and I can't wait for the next!

[Grimm]

WINNING..........yes baby! That's what i'm talking about. Even if they end up losing (Cordelia is 2 big of a bitch 2 not to have something up her sleeve) i'm very proud of the Reds. I'm so excited .

ps. I was channelling my inner Devola when I changed my avatar!

[True_Love]

Hey Julie,

Okay, I don't know what you originally had written at the beginning of the update, but I'm glad you added the quiet moment between the two girls. I think Tara made a really powerful statement, even though her voice and manner were soft. It's just too bad it didn't carry the weight it should have due to the fact that Willow immediately returned to her thoughts of the dream and gratefulness of the day's beginning.

I kinda felt bad for Tara as Willow didn't really seem to acknowledge the importance of the statement with a comment or anything. Willow did hold Tara closer, but it was for her own feelings of security from the dream, not because of what Tara said. But, since it was Willow's PoV maybe Tara thought the tighter embrace was because of her statement and all's good, who knows. I hope that made sense, I have been learning a lot about PoV recently and it's kinda taken over my thoughts, lol.

Liked the softball game, brings back some old memories.

Looking forward to the next update.
Lexi

[ashcrash71590]

I really enjoyed the first part of the game. I love how you put it in here and how well you played it out and I also enjoyed the cheers. I can't wait to see what happens in the next chapter and what tricks might be up people's sleeves.

Ash

[Azirahael]

So... Baseball.

That's a game with a balls right? You hit it with a stick?
Yup, that's the level of my knowledge and understanding, so all this stuff is arcane mystery.

I did enjoy the character interaction though, good as always.

I might not get the baseball stuff, but i hope the reds win, for lots of reasons.
Or if they have to lose, i hope they lose with dignity and spirit.

As always, i'm looking forward to the next bit.

Go the Reds!

Yahya choda! Long live the fighters!
(That's a Dune quote, not anything political)

[Ariel]

AstronSoul:
HAIL, MIGHTY DIBS-MISTRESS!!!

YES THE GAME!!!
I love how they come in, and it's good to see all of them kinda nervous but they are having fun and winning (so far).

They’re off to a good start . . . uh oh, is that ‘doom music’ I’m hearing? Stay tuned . .

The little praises here and there from Faith Willow and Tara really pay off as well as all the girls, always a great support system.

You nailed a big part of their success – love and help and real caring! Nice catch!

A little bit of filler info: Lawanna, the umpire, is actually another camp counselor and runs the Games/Sports program just like Tara runs the Riding Program. Lawanna is a gifted athlete and both she and Hallie (her Junior Counselor) are athletes in the best sense of the word. They are absolutely dedicated to being fair. So our girls won’t lose due to any sort of outside corruption on the part of the umpires – promise!
Thanks for reading and staying with me! About AS2C: So write some more already!


Maggie AKA leonhart17:

Aww, I feel kind of bad for Harmony (which is a surprise) but it seems like she might be willing to jump teams (or at least could be swayed into some light betrayal) But Willow's warning at the end has me nervous...

And THANK-YOU for another *YOINK*-able idea!!! As for Willow’s warning, she’s known Cordelia too long not to call this one right. Stay tuned . . and thanks for reading.


Zampsa19752001:

I loved the march of the Kitten Army and their Cat-Fu is Strong

– you made me laugh, Sami!!!!! Thanks!

Glad you liked the Mouse-ian victory moments! As for worrying about the tricks up the sleeve of Dogdelia etc. You’re right again!

I'm worried about what underhanded dirty tricks Bitch C (aka Dogdelia) has in her sleeve... I truly hope the umpire sees that and declares Queens cheaters (again)...

*YOINK* Your idea has been officially used, keep your eye on Lawanna!


fhiwda

And you just leave me hangin'?! Ouch...

Yes, Ma’am – I aim to hurt. Oops! I mean please, I think . . .

just...awesome...and please don't keep me waiting too horribly long.

Voila! One rare softball game coming right up (notice I didn’t say, ‘well done’ ) How's THAT for fast! Remember to leave a tip in the tip jar.


Allie AKA Babbles4Twillow:

Cat-fu!!! genius!! I really liked the "mooning dynamite"! Its great how the "bad words" are being said all over the place in this update. Faith-blush!!! LMFAO!

Glad you liked – and glad you enjoyed the use of "I am you, you know" - definitely one of my faves, too – as I think you’ve figured out by now!

CANNOT wait for more!!! I'm all balls-of-feet bouncy too!

Wow! I’m all jumpy-joyful, thanks to the kind words! See=>

I was out for dinner with my 2 yr old god-daughter, and when we were out in the parking lot, she turned her head up and yelled, "Moon!" Of course, my mind completely ignored the fact that she was actually looking at the moon and cracked up laughing thinking of the "curse word". Everyone was looking at me wondering why I was laughing so hard at that one word...which only made me laugh harder. Thank you so much for this fic which has brought so much laughter into my life!

– Freakin’ hilarious! Thanks, Allie!!!


Matty AKA Mgraham93:

The Softball is just brilliant at primary school from about March till the end of July we played Rounders twice a week for P.E so this fic is bringing back really happy memories big thank you for that.

Thanks for that! because I feel guilty over inflicting softball on my U.K. Kitten-buddies! And guess what! I played Rounders when I worked at the Renaissance Faire, so a little cross the pond athletic exchange happening - cool!

The dream- Wow the start sounded like a premonition about Glory. seperated by sands of time a subconcious fear that after camp they'll lose each other, as well as the fact that Tara still has the secret as a burden buried within. The dark figure, Tara's father? Or another villian. The fact that Willow couldn't see who it was really added to the anxiety about the dream for me. as well it really made sense her not being able to see. because at the minute she knows something has caused Tara to think she's evil so at the minute there's no image for her to associate with the badness just that theres something bad. Well atleast that was my interpretation of the dream

So much of this is right on – love your interpretation. Even when parts of it are not what I had in mind, it’s creative and logical. Amazing, thanks

On Faith’s ‘F’ word being ‘Frog’ and Willow’s reaction, you said:

That was brilliant reminds me of Lily in the other How I Met Your Mother and the word moist .

Thanks! Glad that was funny for you!


faolan228:

Ah, a touching moment between Tara and Willow to start off the day. lol that should be a requirement now.

I will if you will!

Gotta agree with Babbles, that twist on the legendary 'what' quote is my fave.

Yeah, I’m with you and Allie on that, myself! Great quote from the show!

Willow's ending line is both adorable and ominous.

Do I get a prize for being 'adorimous' or 'ominable'? Thanks for reading! More Sentinels, please!


Jessica AKA beautiful_love:
Glad you liked the dream sequence and that “Tara was there to make it all better.” Yes she was! I love the sweet bits, too! Thanks for some of your own contributions along that line!

The game, so far, has been awesome. I have to admit, sometimes I can't read stuff like this where it's play by play. I see something shiny and I become distracted and can't finish. Totally not the case here. You're doing a really good job though. I love all the girls and their cheers. It's awesome! I was so happy when they took the lead.

Wow, that means a lot to me. I am doing my best to make the game as exciting as I can – hope this one delivers the goods for you!


Grimm:

WINNING..........yes baby! That's what i'm talking about. Even if they end up losing (Cordelia is 2 big of a bitch 2 not to have something up her sleeve) i'm very proud of the Reds. I'm so excited

As for Cordelia having a few tricks up her sleeve, why do you always have to be RIGHT! Yes, she does and she hits a new low. But however it ends, they are doing GREAT and stay a real team all the way through!!! And they appreciate and return your cheers!

About your new avatar “channeling your inner Devola” maybe that’s your inner Demonola! Actually, I hoped to have a mention of you in the fic later as a friend of Miss Darcy, let me know if it’s okay. No complete names; so, wanna move to Sunnydale?


Lexi AKA True_Love:
Glad the softball game brought back some memories – thanks for the kind words.

I'm glad you added the quiet moment between the two girls. I think Tara made a really powerful statement, even though her voice and manner were soft. It's just too bad it didn't carry the weight it should have due to the fact that Willow immediately returned to her thoughts of the dream and gratefulness of the day's beginning.

Willow heard Tara’s comments, but she took it as being saved from loneliness and isolation and really, that’s how Tara meant it. She has no expectation of Willow or anyone ‘saving’ her from her life but she is happier than she has ever been and feels tremendous joy over being able to love and be loved.

Willow did hold Tara closer, but it was for her own feelings of security from the dream, not because of what Tara said. But, since it was Willow's PoV maybe Tara thought the tighter embrace was because of her statement and all's good, who knows. I hope that made sense, I have been learning a lot about PoV recently and it's kinda taken over my thoughts, lol.

Yeah, I’m thinking about that more and more myself. Glad you’re talking with Kate – she seems like the High Priestess of POV and has a lot of insight on making it work. The water scene experiments a little with POV – you could say I’m getting my feet wet. (bad pun, that’s what happens at 11:49 p.m.)

Glad to be writing buddies, your critique for what works and what doesn’t is always welcome be it here in a post or via chat or PM. Thanks for reading and for feedback – sincerely appreciated!


ashcrash71590:
Hey, GLAD you enjoyed the cheers and as for waiting to see what tricks people have up their sleeves, Ms. Cordelia Chase has 4 goodies that she unleashes! Not to mention some of her players’ clever little moves. Stay tuned and thanks for reading!


Richard AKA Azirahael:

So... Baseball.

That's a game with a balls right? You hit it with a stick?
Yup, that's the level of my knowledge and understanding, so all this stuff is arcane mystery.

And THAT’s why I love you! Reading all this is a true demonstration of story love and friendship! Thank you, my friend!

Yahya choda! Long live the fighters! (That's a Dune quote, not anything political)

Very apropos – our little girls are marching into war! Thanks!

Glad the character interaction works for you, hang in there – almost done!

STORY TO FOLLOW (ALMOST) IMMEDIATELY!

[Ariel]

Feedback is golden thanks for reading and for feed-back, I treasure your input!

Title: How I Met Your Mother*
Author: Ariel
Email: blaziak@yahoo.com
Feedback: All feedback welcomed, specific input appreciated, harsh on me via PM
Rating: PG, a couple of naughty words - ratings will change depending on content
Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, but I love to take them for a ride!
Summary: A/U before season 1, the summer after Willow's freshman year with a large dose of Queen Cordelia at her bitchy best and teen-aged angst.
Special Thanks to Maggie for the idea about Harmony!
Special Thanks to Zampsa for the idea about the Umpire

Author’s Note: Wow, we’re almost done! Thanks for hanging in even when softball may not be your favorite sport!!!


*no connection to the sit-com of the same name


Thoughts are in italics.

It was the end of the first inning, they were winning and they raced out onto the field yelling with excitement and ready to face their rivals.


Tara was grinning, bouncing on the balls of her feet like a taller, blonde version of Willow. She glanced over and swung her lover’s hand in hers, “Why aren’t you cheering? It’s great! We’re winning!”


Willow smiled a little uneasily. “I’m all with the happy, really I am! But I grew up with Cordelia.” She paused, “And believe me, this is just the beginning.”

Part 50: The Big Game (continued)


The Queens came roaring back at the top of the second inning. The threat of being beaten by the ‘Losers’ pulled them together and they slammed in six runs.


It was the bottom of the second inning, Bettina was off to the side taking practice swings while Devola batted.


Cordelia stood up suddenly and hurried closer. Bettina looked up at her and Cordelia silently mouthed, “Tara is a bitch.”


The little girl turned red with fury and rushed towards Cordelia, the bat still in her hand. Faith waylaid her and tried to tug the bat away from her while Willow ran over to help. Bettina was crying, nearly inarticulate with rage while Cordelia smiled and shrugged helplessly as Lawanna came over to investigate and Tara raced over from coaching first base.


“She gets like this,” Cordelia confided. “She attacked me once in the crafts room and—“


Lawanna cut her off, turning to Faith instead. “Can you get her calmed down? I don’t know what she had in mind, but she’s out of the game if she can’t control her temper.”


Faith nodded and she and Tara used up a precious time out to comfort the little girl and help her calm down.


Bettina stood in the batter’s box, still furious, glancing constantly over at Cordelia who was smart enough to smile innocently. No one was surprised when Bettina ended up smashing one foul ball near the third base line and finally swinging and missing at the next two pitches for their second out.


The Reds had managed to earn three runs, but the inning ended with a score of 9 to 7 and the Queens were gaining momentum.


The third inning got worse.


The Reds had only made one run. There were two outs and the bases were loaded with Debbie poised on third, Kate on second and Devola on first. Bettina turned and Faith pointed two fingers at her own eyes then pointed the same two fingers outward and said, “Drill it with your eyes, send it to the skies.” Bettina nodded, took another deep breath, and stepped up to the plate while the base runners tensed, straining towards the moment of release where they could sprint home.


Tizzie deliberately threw high, hoping for a pop up that could be caught in the infield, but the big girl stood still.


“Ball one.”


Tizzie shoved a stray lock of permed blond bangs out of her face and focused. She released the ball slowly and it soared into a smooth arc.


Bettina tensed and whipped her bat around, bashing the ball into the corner between right field and center where it actually rolled up against the fence.


Debbie had turned to admire the hit for an instant.


Faith shouted, “Run, Debbie!”


The little girl took a running step forward, her head still partly turned, and fell.


Kate, sprinting from second, paused to yank Debbie to her feet, noting that they still had time.


Devola, meanwhile, raced around second base her skinny legs eating up the ground as she rapidly began catching up to Kate and Debbie.


Debbie was on her feet when Kate heard Devola approaching and raised her hands as if to push her back, while Faith yelled, “Wait for Debbie, Devola! Wait up!”


Devola didn’t hear her. There was the baseline, a white blur under her running feet. There was the race, the chase, and home plate waiting for her. She sprinted home with Debbie and Kate behind her.


“Out!”


Devola had over-run home plate and skidded to a stop. “What?” She ran back to stomp on home plate, “I touched the base!”


Debbie ran in behind her, followed by Kate and then the slower moving Bettina.


Lawanna shook her head. “You passed the preceding base runners, so your run doesn’t count and you’re out. This is the third out.” She raised her voice, “Okay. Queens, get ready to bat! Reds, take the field!”


Devola clutched at Lawanna’s shirt, “But we all came home! We beat the throw!”


Lawanna shook her head again. “If you run past the base runner ahead of you then you’re out. Your run doesn’t count.”


“But what about them? What about their runs?”


“You made the third out, so their runs don’t count either.”


Devola’s hands dropped to her sides, she was stunned and would have stood there indefinitely if Faith hadn’t led her away.


Connie was incensed. “Devola, you dummy! You just blew a grand slam! Four runs lost and it’s all your fault! I oughta strangle you!” Connie reached for Devola’s neck and looked anxiously around her, “Is anybody going to stop me?”


Faith smiled, but it was a tight smile. “I’m thinking,” there was a small pause, “Don’t do it.”


Connie sighed with relief and withdrew her hands.


Then Tara and Willow rushed up.


Then the Queens swung into action.


They copied the Reds’ cheers, shouting them out in cloying baby voices then laughing at Devola’s look of hurt fury. The little girl raced to Lawanna to stop them but was told, reluctantly, that cheer leading was acceptable as long as the content wasn’t derogatory.


Devola stood, this double blow transforming her from Indigo Kane mastermind of the Reds’ victory to a very hurt little girl who was suddenly ashamed of the cheers she had worked so hard to create and perfect. The sight of Devola slumped and teary-eyed seemed impossible; the team milled around then walked slowly onto the field, feeling aimless and unsure, as if the world had somehow changed and could no longer be trusted in quite the same way. Mouse was the last girl to remain by the batting area and patted Devola’s shoulder, Faith tried a joke, and Tara and Willow both held her but to no avail. She had withdrawn and walked sadly over with Tara to get some water to splash on her face.


Harmony stood, filling her custom mug from the water dispenser and gave Devola an exasperated glance. Then she reached into her purse to pull out a small packet of Kleenex and shoved it into Devola’s hands. “Take them,” she said shortly, “Watching you cry like that is making my mascara itch!” Then she turned sharply to go, entirely missing Tara’s look of gratitude and Devola’s mumbled, “Thank you.”


Just before the fourth inning started the Queens serenaded the Reds to the tune of “Take me out to the Ballgame” before preparing to hit:


Take me out to the slaughter-ball game,
Take me out with the Queens
Watching the best team lay down the runs
That’s my kind of exciting good fun
So root, root, root for the best team
The Reds tried hard, it’s a shame
But it’s one, two, three strikes THEY’RE out
As we win the game!


Faith’s jaw tightened. “They’re not far off. The score is 16 to 8. If they get fifteen runs ahead after we bat, then we’re done, slaughter-balled.”


Willow swallowed, “So what do we do?”


Faith straightened, “What we always do. Coach ‘em. Cheer ‘em on.”


Willow slid her arm around Tara’s waist then walked over to stand shoulder to shoulder with Faith, and smiled, “Then that’s what we’ll do!” She looked over at Faith and Tara, “So how are you at all the cheerlead-y goodness?”


Faith didn’t have to think, “Crappy.”


Tara nodded agreement, rating her own cheerleading ability the same.


Willow grinned, “Me, too. So, let’s just keep it simple.”


The two stared at her, Tara finally breaking the silence, “Who are you and w-what have you done with my girlfriend?”


Willow blushed. “Maybe just ‘Go Reds’?” Then she walked a few feet closer to the field and beckoned. Tara and Faith shrugged at each other and walked over to stand on either side of the insane person who was now Willow.


Willow took a deep, steadying breath, knowing that her voice had a tendency to squeak when she was excited, and shouted, “We know you can do it!” Then she nodded at Tara and Faith and the three shouted, “Go Reds! GO REDS! GOOOOOOO REDS!!!” and finished with a squeeze and waves to the kids most of whom smiled and waved back.


But the Queens batted their strongest yet, earning eight runs before running off the field to yelps and screams of triumph while Faith pulled her team in for a talk as they faced the bottom half of the fourth inning.


“This is it,” she said simply. “They got 24 runs and we have 7. We have to earn at least three runs this inning or we’re slaughter-balled and it’s ‘Game Over’.”


Faith let the tension build.


“Can you do it?” she asked quietly.


There were some nods and a few voices answered ‘yes’.


“I can’t hear you.”


“Yes!”


“Yeah we can!”


“We can beat ‘em!”


Faith yelled back, “I CAN’T HEAR YOU!”


Tara started clapping, “We can do it! We can do it!—“ and the kids joined in, “We CAN do it! WE CAN DO IT! WE CAN DO IT!! WE CAN DO IT!!!” Suddenly they were jumping and calling, hugging and punching each other!


Faith grinned, “THAT’s what a coach needs to hear!”


“Batter up.”


Connie ran and grabbed a bat then flashed a wicked grin as she stepped into the batter’s box. She tried a few fake practice swings, lower than she usually liked them and saw Tizzie’s eyes sharpen as she got ready to pitch.


“Wait!” Connie stepped out of the batter’s box and reached over to turn her friendship bracelet so that the main design faced the pitcher’s mound. “My lucky bracelet,” she explained then stepped back into the batter’s box.


“Are you finally ready!” Tizzie demanded.


Connie smiled sweetly and stepped back out of the batter’s box. “Thanks for asking. Let me check!” She examined her fingernails, shoelaces, and even hauled a Barbie compact out of her pocket to examine her face while Tizzie fumed in silence. “Ready!” Connie chirped brightly then stepped in the batter’s box just as Lawanna was opening her mouth to tell her to bat.


Tizzie’s first pitch was a floater and Connie swung, hitting just the underside of the ball so that it bounced near the pitcher’s mound but spun backwards, landing half way between Kelly and Tizzie.


Connie had not paused to look, she was running flat-out towards first, faster than she had ever run before, while Kelly jumped out of her crouch and ran at the ball. The catcher scooped it up quickly, then turned and fired it to Billie on first just as Connie’s foot stamped on the bag.


“Safe.” Hallie called it, “Tie goes to the runner.”


Connie turned to wave to Tizzie and Kelly, then casually examined a cuticle to the screams and cheers of her team-mates.


Towanda walked heavily to the plate while Tizzie looked her up and down and sniffed as if smelling garbage. Towanda just smiled, “No worries,” she said, unconsciously imitating her coach, “I won’t be here that long!”


Tizzie threw a ball that Towanda watched go by, then the Captain of the Reds stared quizzically back as if to say, “Can you do any better?”


Tizzie clenched her jaw and fired a strike. Towanda whipped her bat around and people in the far bleachers heard the metallic ring of bat smacking ball as the ball sailed off to roll barely six feet from the fence while Celia in center field and Mo in right both raced to grab it and throw it home.


Connie jogged home, waving like royalty and smiling graciously; Tizzie looked about ready to throw up and she still had to watch Towanda run the bases and go home as well.


Debbie landed a walk on six pitches.


Kate hit a hopper down the third baseline and barely beat the throw when Delise bobbled the catch. She and Tara hugged each other but broke apart and resumed their positions before being reprimanded.


Tizzie was sweating and furious. She released the ball, but it stuck to her hand for an instant and spun inside to hit Devola who blew her a kiss and skipped to first base.


Bettina blasted a line drive past Hannah on second and Celia scooped it up, and threw it to Hannah. The toss was short and Hannah ran up to snag it then turned to find Devola running onto second while she was three feet from the base.


“Safe.”


Devola let loose with a Xena yell and danced on the base.


Veronica walked slowly to the batter’s box, determined not to swing at anything that wasn’t a strike. Tizzie was tiring and it took five pitches for Veronica to strike out. Then she walked out, head hanging, to rejoin her team.


The girls cheered as Mouse came up to bat. The little girl had been walked every time she batted, but Faith frowned; she had seen Tizzie and Kelly practicing between innings.


Mouse stood smiling happily, barely able to hold the heavy bat up but feeling like a real softball player.


The first pitch was unbelievably fast and inside. Mouse jumped back, terrified, and landed flat on her rump.


“Ball one.”


Lawanna helped the little girl up but Mouse struggled away from the plate, frightened of being hit, and Tizzie laughed suddenly.


Cordelia rushed over and Willow ran to intercept. “The little mouse isn’t batting! If she doesn’t bat, she’s out!”


Lawanna felt her throat muscles working, but she forced her voice to remain steady as she turned to Willow. “Stay with Mouse. I’ll be right back.” Then Lawanna walked to the pitcher’s mound with Cordelia hurrying after. “Listen,” Lawanna looked straight into Tizzie’s eyes and cut to the point, “Scare that little girl, hit her or even try to hit her and you’re out of the game. Got it?”


“It was an accident,” Tizzie muttered sullenly.


Cordelia butted in, “You have no evidence, no proof whatsoever, that Tizzie—“


Lawanna inhaled sharply but her voice stayed even. “Be quiet,” she said simply and turned back to Tizzie. “You play league fast pitch softball and you’re a pitcher. You’ve talked about it all through the camp session when we play. So I know and you know that you used a fast pitch wind up and that this wasn’t an accident.” Tizzie started to speak but Lawanna cut her off with a gesture. “I’m the umpire and that’s my call. You’ve been warned.”


By the time Lawanna resumed her position behind the plate a frightened but determined Mouse was standing in the batter’s box and clutching the bat in her hands.


Then Tizzie breathed in, concentrating on Kelly’s mitt.


“Strike one.”


Tizzie stared at Kelly’s mitt, Breathe. Focus. Loosen shoulders. Breathe. Focus. Throw.


“Strike two.”


She grinned, releasing a little too soon for a high floater.


“Ball two.”


Then she bore down, staring intensely before releasing the pitch.


“Strike three. Out.”


Mouse stood, confused, and blinked up at Lawanna whose voice was kind, “You’re out, Mouse. Go see Willow now.”


Mouse gulped and nodded. She had struck out. Their magic squatty froggy plan had stopped working. She walked over, crying, and hugged Willow’s legs for a while before holding up her arms to be picked up. Then Willow lifted her into a big squeeze and she rubbed her wet eyes against Willow’s neck and felt a little better.


Lisa took two balls before swinging very slightly upwards on a fairly flat pitch. The ball floated past Tammy Pam and Celia raced to back up the catch but Lisa was safe on second and Bettina had rounded third, ignoring Faith’s signal to stay put, and was pounding down the base path for home.


Both teams were roaring.


Hannah’s head jerked up and her arm cocked back for the throw. She hesitated for instant while Tizzie ran out of the way of the throw, then fired the ball to Kelly who was on her feet, mitt raised. The ball smacked hard into Kelly’s mitt and then everything seemed to run in slow motion. Kelly turned, teeth bared, foot on the base to tag Bettina out. The catcher’s hands were still up from the catch and she began lowering them in a chopping motion, almost like swinging an axe.


Meanwhile, Bettina hadn’t played much softball, but she and her brothers had played football and she simply flung herself forward and did a flying tackle on home base an instant before Kelly’s hands slammed down on her back.


“Safe!”


Bettina climbed to her feet only to be pounded, hugged, pushed and high-fived by her team-mates until Lawanna was finally able to restore order. The umpire re-checked her copy of the Reds’ batting card and saw that Connie was in the on-deck circle, ready to go.


“Batter up.”


Connie waved cheerfully to Tizzie who scowled back and stepped daintily into the batter’s box. She took the second pitch and managed a nice hit over Billie’s head, landing on first base.


Towanda stalked up to the batter’s box and locked eyes with Tizzie, the two pitchers glaring furiously at each other. She swung and missed on the first pitch, her face burning at Kelly’s snickering just behind her and Tizzie’s mocking grin. But she breathed and refocused, took one ball, and blasted the third pitch between first and second for a triple, sending Lisa and Connie home for two more runs.


Debbie did her best, but swung and missed, striking out on the fourth pitch.


“Out. Ten minute break before the final inning. Drink water, rest a bit. Queens bat first, Reds will take the field. This is the final inning of the Camp Championship Game for seven year old campers. Good luck to both teams.”


Faith, Willow and Tara marched their team members over to the water container and took care to keep fights from breaking out between the two teams as well as making sure that each girl drank water and reapplied sunscreen. Then Faith sat them down in some shade a few yards away while Willow and Tara stayed by the water container. Then Willow slid her backpack off her shoulders and smiled at Tara. “I have a surprise for you.” She dug in her pack for a moment then pulled out the silver metal cup.


Tara smiled, “That’s the best cup. When I’m hot, the water tastes extra cold and it’s so good when you give it to me.” Willow turned away, not seeing the shy smile.


“Good. Water of the cold-ish variety, coming up for Miss Tara Maclay.” Willow filled the cup then the two girls walked a small distance away. They paused for a moment, watching the cold water condense into silvery droplets against the metal of the cup. Without thinking, Willow offered the cup in her two hands. There was a heartbeat’s stillness, then Tara placed her hands over Willow’s and simply lost herself in Willow’s green eyes.


A long moment passed and Willow’s watch suddenly began beeping, causing her to start and blush. “Five minutes left of the ten minutes break between innings.” Willow looked at her hands, still held within Tara’s, “Uh, hands please?” Tara lifted her hands off Willow’s as Willow suddenly grinned. “What was I doing? Oh, I was all with the drinking of water! Yes. Thirst avoidance, good strategy with all the,” her eyes drifted down to a droplet of sweat sliding slowly down Tara’s moist cleavage, “hotness!” She blushed then gulped water and offered the cup again to Tara who took it slowly, turned it around to place her lips over the imprint of Willow’s lips, and drank deeply. Willow’s forehead wrinkled in puzzlement, “Why did you do that?”


Tara’s eyes looked back guilelessly at Willow’s, “Do what?”


Willow gestured to the cup, “You know, the cup turn-y stuff when you drank.”


Tara thought for a moment then a blush stained her cheeks and her neck arched downwards.


“Tara, what is it? I-I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. I was just curious, that’s all. You know me, Curious Willow from the monkey house; Willow, the science-gal?”


“Um, I was kissing you.” Tara raised her head slowly, “I look for w-ways to kiss you and whenever we share a cup I turn it so I can put my lips where y-your lips were and every time I drink, I-I’m kissing you.”


Willow swallowed and tugged Tara into her arms. “I love you, baby, and you can have all the Willow-kisses there are; all of them are just for you, okay?” Willow felt the soft brush of Tara’s cheek against hers as the other girl nodded agreement. Then Willow leaned in, her forehead against Tara’s. “I kiss you, too. All top-secret so you don’t know.”


Tara’s mouth quirked up in her special smile. “Tell me.”


“Well, sometimes I wake up and I want you, want to be near you but I don’t want to be all Sleeping Beauty wakey-wakey kiss-girl when I know that you’re tired. If you’re all sprawly in my arms I just sort of lean in and kiss you but if we’re not in each other’s arms then I want to kiss you but feel like I shouldn’t and--”


Tara interrupted, “Sweetie, you can always kiss me. I give you my personal permission to kiss me whenever you want.”


Willow blushed. “Oh. Well, I didn’t know that so I-I would, uh.” She checked her watch, “Hey!” It’s only a few minutes until the fifth inning—“


“Willlllow.”


“Taaaara.”


“Tell me. You promised.”


Willow’s eyes went wide, “I did not! I didn’t say anything promise-y! There were no promises, vows, or sacred oaths! I just said I would, that’s all!”


“Then tell me.”


“You’ll laugh.”


“No I won’t, I promise.”


Willow sighed and stared at her feet, then noticed a ladybug crawling to the top of a grass stem before flying away. She whispered, “I kiss your pillow.”


Tara’s arms slid around her waist and pulled her gently into the warm softness of her breasts and Willow decided that confession was good for the soul. “I put my face in the part where I can smell your hair or where it’s still warm from your head and, and I kind of kiss it and I pretend it’s you.”


Tara tightened their embrace and they were breast to breast, heart to heart and Willow sighed, This is the best place in the whole wide world.

*************************************************

Veronica pulled Faith aside. “I wanna play short-stop.”


“Yeah?”


Veronica swallowed, “Please. I want to.” Her words came out in a rush, “After what she did to Mouse and you guys, all you guys.” She gulped, “You’re my team.”


Faith looped an arm around Veronica’s neck. “Sure, kid. You got it.”


Then the team sat on the grass in a tired but excited clump.


Towanda straightened, mindful of her responsibilities, “How are we doing?”


Faith grinned. “Better. Slammed in seven runs, our best so far.”


Willow cut in, “24 to 15.”


There was silence.


Debbie looked up a little uncertainly. “So we need to do ten runs?”


“Get ten runs, Deb, GET ten runs,” Connie answered impatiently, “and that’s ONLY if the stupid Queens don’t get ANY!”


Willow calculated rapidly, “They average six runs an inning.”


“So what!” Devola said loudly, “Are we going to kick their ‘mooning’ butts or not!”


Faith laughed unexpectedly, “D. You’re doin’ it again, you’re killin’ me!”


Devola folded her arms and said sternly, “I mean it! Are we going to kick their ‘mooning’ butts or not!”


Towanda grinned, “We kick!”


Connie forgot her bad temper and nodded, “We kick!”


Lisa and Kate joined in with Debbie half a beat behind them, “We kick,” and Bettina’s flat voice agreed, “We kick.”


Mouse laughed, “Kick-kick Kick-kick Kick-kick-kick-kick-kick-kick-kick-kick!”


They were ready.


So were the Queens.


TBC

[Babbles4Twillow]

Dibs!! Yays!

Thats so Harmony, going soft then acting like a jerk to cover it up! The game...so INTENSE...

Willow gestured to the cup, “You know, the cup turn-y stuff when you drank.”

That was great, and LOVE the sweetness of the conversation that followed this.

“So what!” Devola said loudly, “Are we going to kick their ‘mooning’ butts or not!”


Faith laughed unexpectedly, “D. You’re doin’ it again, you’re killin’ me!”

Faith channeled me right there. Yup, sure did. Kid makes me laugh so 'mooning' hard, I swear!

ARIEL....HOW COULD YOU LEAVE ME HANGIN LIKE THAT?! ZOMG!!!! So...howzabout a double-update?

All Cliff-hanger-like-tenseness aside, you already know I loved it! Keep it up, Chika!

Kitten Love!!

[leonhart17]

Well, there was a moment of softness from Harmony - I like it! And the girls are as cute as always! This is a high scoring game! I can't wait to see how it ends!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I'm glad that the Lawanda spotted the pitchers (on Bitch C's orders I'm sure) dirty tricks. I truly hope she spots those planned for the last inning. I kinda hope that Reds win because of their playing skills and not by Queens losing because of cheating... It would be quite wonderful for our girls if Bitch C and Lap Mutt are kicked out the camp for cheating. It would allow Willow & Tara to have some well deserved peace & quiet for the Big Talk...

[True_Love]

Ariel,

Okay, I have to admit, although reading play-by-play is not my favorite personally; I think you are doing a good job with this. It's holding my attention until it get's to my favorite part, the water cooler scene with Willow and Tara. My favorite line:

“What was I doing? Oh, I was all with the drinking of water! Yes. Thirst avoidance, good strategy with all the,” her eyes drifted down to a droplet of sweat sliding slowly down Tara’s moist cleavage, “hotness!”

This is so Willow, good use of Willow-ese and characterizations of her distractedness. Of course I also love the sweetness of:

“I look for w-ways to kiss you and whenever we share a cup I turn it so I can put my lips where y-your lips were and every time I drink, I-I’m kissing you.”

and

Willow sighed and stared at her feet, then noticed a ladybug crawling to the top of a grass stem before flying away. She whispered, “I kiss your pillow.”

Tara’s arms slid around her waist and pulled her gently into the warm softness of her breasts and Willow decided that confession was good for the soul. “I put my face in the part where I can smell your hair or where it’s still warm from your head and, and I kind of kiss it and I pretend it’s you.”

I love the secret kisses. It seems like something any PDA shy couple would do, share secret ways of being intimate with one another when nobody else knows.

Looking forward to the next update!

[beautiful_love]

What a cruel place to stop. I NEED to know what happens.

Ok so obviously I really hope the Reds win because they're working so hard. They've go the heart and I love that. Super excited that Veronica is going to be a part of it too.

And of course Willow and Tara are just adorable. I totally agree with Lexi on the whole PDA thing. Very sneaky but sweet. Looking forward to more of their alone time later after the exciting end of the game.

[Azirahael]

My super-secret-psychic-powers detect an Heroic Draw coming on!

I guess you don't need to know baseball to understand heroics.

As much as i don't want the Reds to lose, loss would provide much drama and chances for bonding moments.
And a chance for Cordelia to shine in her bitchy-sore-winner best.
You just know, win or lose, she is going to be a complete bastard about it.

But ouch! that whole "loose a bunch of runs due to a technicality" thing was harsh!

Even if the queens (No capitals for them!) win, it's still not going to look good:
Wow, you won. all it took was bribery, a professional softball coach, a ringer, a bunch of semi-pro players, a spy, sabotage and the incredible meanness to turn a fun competition into a war. Go you.
I think if the Reds actually manage to win, Cordelia will go completely psycho, she's got too much of herself invested in making them "Losers". God she needs to take a pill. Or get laid. Or have every square inch of her arse kicked.
I'm voting for the last one 'cos i'm twisted.

Anyway, it's all good sweetie, even with my total ignorace of the ball-stick game.
Looking forward to the next bit!

"My feet hurt ... with destiny!"
(win a small prize if you can guess where the quote comes from.)

[Grimm]

Yes, use me alllll you want!! It would be even better if I could be the one to hit Cordelia in the back of the 'mooning' head with one of those aluminum bats . But, I would be honored to be a part of this wonderful story in any capacity that you choose.

I hated to see Devola so down and was glad that her enthusiasm returned by the end of the update. I really hate bullies. And the crap that Cordelia is pulling with Bettina goes beyond a simple dislike of Willow and Tara. Cordelia is the kind of bitch you love to run into at your highschool reunion. She's the one who shits on everyone around her and ends up exactly how she should...alone and miserable!! I really hope she gets her's by the end of this story.

Win or lose...the Reds have heart .

[Azirahael]

Yes, use me alllll you want!!

You know Grimm, this phrase in conjunction with your current avatar pic is sorta creepy-nice.

Kinda like a Jagermonster (Girl Genius: see this elegant and finely crafted link for details) :
http://www.girlgeniusonline.com/comic.php?date=20111125

Just sayin'