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Dance, Dance, Dance

By Ariel Montine

When Jenna leaves the cheer leading team before the competition, will Dee Jay be able to help?

 

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Dance, Dance, Dance

By Ariel Montine

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Part One ~ It's A Secret!

[Friday Day One of the Full Moon]

"Hey, Kiddo! How’s the secret agent business treating you, son of mine?"

"Oh Mom!" I exclaimed exasperated and rolled my eyes at her.　 "We've been through that all of football and basketball season and no one’s the wiser.　　 We are very good at keeping secrets at Lamur Institute.　　 We’re not the ARMYdillos for nothing! We know how to keep things undercover!"

When tryouts were held at the beginning of the year, I won the job of being the school mascot, "Amy the ARMYdillo". Lamur AFB was originally an Army Air Corp base, which explained the ARMY in our mascot's name for our high school, the Lamur Institute. A very talented person had made the costume cute as a button as opposed to the animal in real life.

She rolled her eyes right back at me, "Is that so, Aaaiiiimmmeee!"

"Not so loud! You can never tell who might be listening in.　　 For one thing her name is Amy and for another, my name is Dee Jay.　 Gee Mom! Really!"

"Okay, Kiddo, you are almost right.　　 Your nickname is "Dee Jay" but I named you　Dexter Jacob and for another the ARMYdillos mascot may be named Amy but when they shout out her name at the end of the 'Spell out Amy' cheer it comes out as 'Aaaiiiimmmeee!' So there!" She playfully stuck out her tongue at me and even giggled a little.

I grinned at her and didn’t let her bait me into doing the same.　 How could I stay frustrated at a Mom so great at playing with me like that!　 I could have imagined that had she been anyone else, I would have never have been given a chance to go on with this masquerade.　　 We were close before Dad died in Iraq but now we were even closer.　 She understood me, accepted me and loved me unconditionally.

I’m almost uncanny as a mimic so as long as I’m shown something one time, I can reproduce it.　　 So I got this harebrained idea that with the tradition of not knowing who is inside the "Amy the ARMYdillo" mascot suit that she could be any girl in the school.　　 I wondered that as long as a person has all the moves, did it have to be a girl inside.　　

Ours was traditionally an all female cheerleading squad. So Jenna, the cheerleader captain, didn't know what to think of me trying out for mascot. However, my special talent was to be able to be shown a dance routine once and reproduce it with all the nuances and feelings. Jenna realized that I could be a stand in for when she turned to face the girls to evaluate how a new routine worked or to coach the other girls to give their best performance. She reasoned that since I moved like a girl that it really didn't matter whether there was a boy or girl inside the mascot suit.

Hailey recruited her sister, Chelsea, who was in eighth grade, to be my backup in the mascot suit, and also when I practiced the main routine with the girls, she would do the mascot's part. It was a tradition that the identity of the mascot was a strict secret, to aid in the illusion that the mascot itself was real and not just someone in a suit. Just like it didn't matter if I were in the suit, it would not matter when Chelsea was in the suit. Chelsea and I would work on the mascot routines together so that she was ready to step in just in case my time as mascot ended suddenly. Chelsea was trustworthy and we knew that she could keep the secrets.

"Penny for your thoughts!　 Okay a whole SBA dollar!　 What gives Dee Jay?"

"I was thinking what a great Mom you are to have understood me enough to try this scheme.　　 Without your help, I would never have been able to pull it off."

"Once I realized that you wanted to do it only because you felt that it was the best way that you could contribute to School Spirit, I knew I had to support you. You felt strongly about the school tradition that being Amy was about being the very best in order to serve the needs of the school and not for any self glory.　　 Being a cheerleader myself in college, and high school, I knew about the work ethic of a great cheerleading squad.　　 You were in for being worked to the bone without the compensation of popularity that the rest of the squad gets.　 I really admire your character, Kiddo!"

"And you came through for me! You found out that the tryouts for being the mascot started in standard cheerleader uniform and then if that was passed, it was repeated for the mascot’s routines in the mascot uniform.."

"I couldn’t believe the expression on your face when I suggested that if I was serious about it that I would dress you up as a cheerleader and test you.　 Since I know the starts to the squad’s JV routines from your attempt at 8th grade football last year, I put you through your paces and you performed each routine flawlessly.　 You made a very pretty girl but I knew you were relieved when I let you get back to your old self."

"I sure was, but I knew you were right to test me like that.　　 If I couldn’t perform for you under those conditions then doing it during the secret tryouts would have been impossible! Just how did you find out about where the secret tryouts were being held anyway?"

"Cheerleader secret! I can keep a secret too!"

"Anyway, you convinced Jenna, our head cheerleader, that my trying out was not a glory grabbing stunt but a selfless act in the best tradition of that anyone worthy could be Amy."

"You didn’t let me down either when you created an original routine for Amy by demonstrating it in the suit on the spot.　 When you came down into that perfect split at the end, the whole squad’s mouths dropped open and mine too.　　 I’d seen you do splits before dressed as a cheerleader but doing one in the suit was thought impossible but you did it!"

"I’m glad that it won me the chance to serve the school as Amy.　 What have you got packed for lunch for me, Mom?"

"A chef salad per your request.　　 I can’t imagine why."

"It’s for Amy, she’s got to have a good figure, Mom!"

"Okay.　 What’s in store for today?"

"We’ve got a pep rally last period and a baseball game tonight.　　 Instead of having to sneak me into the costume twice, I’m going to stay in costume and hang with the other cheerleaders. In between　　 Hailey’s Mom is treating the squad to supper. It’s being catered at the school.　 After the game it’s the cloak and dagger to get me back to where my cover will say that I spent all that time today."

"And what is the story going to be today to extract you from class?"

"Even I don’t know 'til they tell me.　　 All I know is that Headmistress Lacon will be getting me out of my next to last period class so I can become Amy prior to the pep rally. That’s been easy since they switched me to next to last period Study Hall.　 The Headmaster keeps coming up with projects for me to get extra credit.　　 I guess the real project is me being Amy."

"Who’s filling in for you with Deidre?　 Friday’s you usually spend supporting her?"

"Kendra’s Mom!　 She has a real talent for putting girls in Deidre’s situation at ease. It’s as if she had a transdaughter herself. Her only child is Kendra and of course she was a complete girl from the very start of her life."　

"Okay, kiddo.　 I’ll pick you up after Deidre’s meeting. Just be careful during that unscripted time in between school and the game.　　 Be ready for anything."

"I will Momma.　 Thanks."

I scooted on out the door and down the sidewalk toward the Lamur Institute.　　 Both our house and the Institute was outside Lamur AFB but I had to cross the street at the main entrance to the base before I was able to arrive at the High School.　　

I had flashed Corporal Jane Randolf at the guard gate a big smile and she flipped the switch triggering the light to change.　　 They had an override on the traffic light to the T intersection into the base where they could use the light to cut off traffic into the base if conditions required it.　　 Jane had also been "Amy" so she was willing to help me cross the street if she could.　　 The lights changed and I was able to scoot across the street waving to Jane as I passed the guard house located in the median of the base entrance.　　

I tried to always get to homeroom early since Coach Nestle was such a stickler to paying close attention to the rules and any deviation would earn detention.　　 It was almost worth it the one time that I thought that I had covered all the bases before a project that I was doing for Drama club was unveiled on the unsuspecting rest of the school that day.　 I knew that Coach was looking for something to ding me on since he was overruled on the consequence he imposed.

"Good Morning Coach Nestle!"

"Greetings Dexter! It warms my heart that you have applied yourself to details since our last encounter."

"Thank you sir"

I winced as I turned away from him as I went to my seat. 　 He insisted on calling me Dexter while all of the other teachers called me "Dee Jay" like all the students here. 　 Once we were all present and accounted for at roll call, then the coach's behavior standards were relaxed and he allowed whispered conversations between people in close proximity. 　 But if anyone got loud, he was quick to call them down.　 I saw Francine West come into the room and hand the Coach a note.

"Class, your attention please! Dexter, you may accompany Ms West on school business.　 Get your books and report to your next class afterward. 　 Here's your pass."

I grabbed my books and went up to the front of the room smiling at the coach as I took my pass from him and smiled at Francine as we walked side by side out the door. 　

Francine must have been a bit out of it today because she was just grinning like the cat that swallowed the canary. 　 She must not have been thinking straight since she had inadvertently placed herself so that her assets were on prominent display. 　 I repositioned myself waiting for her to say something so that I could have a conversation with her face instead of her boobs should she break the silence. We came to Dr Richard's office, knocked and entered.　 Dr Richards was also doubling as school counselor so that's why he rated the office.

"Come in, Francine!　 Thanks for coming Dee Jay! Have you two discussed anything in the hall about coming here?"

"No sir. I've just done what you asked and brought Dee Jay down to see you without saying a word."

"Good. Close the door and please be seated and we'll get started."

The door was closed and we both took a nice padded seat in front of Dr Richard's desk.　 There was a table between us which had diet cokes on it for both of us. 　

"Do you remember the testing that the English department was doing with all the Freshman Students a few weeks back?"

"You mean those aptitude tests and psychological tests that were being used by the School Board to evaluate the improvements made to the curriculum?"

"Those are the ones. 　 They also have a secondary purpose and that is for us to identify exceptional students and make sure that they are being fully challenged with their education. 　 On top of the scores, it takes a nomination by two teachers to qualify for the special scholarship.　 Both Ms Ariel Jordan your algebra teacher and myself have nominated you for consideration by the scholarship committee.　 Congratulations!"

"Thank you, Dr Richards.　 What would accepting this scholarship involve?"

"I'm not sure myself since they keep the details private until an offer is made. 　 The school board here approves of the other benefits of the program and that is enough for them even if the students chosen decline the program.　 You are free to do so and no one will think any lesser of you if it isn't what you want when you hear the details."

"When will we hear from the scholarship committee to evaluate us?"

"Sometime next week.　 Dr Ariel Jordan has agreed to be liaison for the scholarship committee to administer their added tests and if those are within their parameters then you will meet a representative of the committee to discuss the details and make arrangements if you accept the scholarship."

I could not help but keep my eyes glued on Francine's face as we heard the news. 　 She had a goofy look on her face. 　 I couldn't tell why she was so happy since we did not know if the scholarship was anything at all to treasure. 　 It could be only enough to buy books so even if every bit helped it would not be the answer to our future education.　 There was something going on with Francine that I could not figure out but since she did not hang with the cheerleader crowd I saw little of her outside of class and my friends would not likely have the word on what was going on in her head. 　 It would have to remain a mystery to me.

I guess I zoned out since the next thing I heard was:

"If you don't have any questions, you both can go to class.　 Thank you!"　 　

"Thank you, Dr Richards."　 "Thanks Dr R."

"Have a great day."

We exited the office and closed the door behind us and started down the hall towards Ms Jordan's classroom.

I stopped and touched Francine's arm, "What is it, Fran?"

"Somehow this seems like something special.　　 Why don't you join me at lunch and we'll discuss it?　 We don't have time now because neither of us wants to miss any more of Ms Jordan's class than we can help."

"Okay, Lunch it is!"

We went through the open door into Ms Jordan's classroom.　 Somehow it was never rowdy enough inside for the door to be closed even though we did have a good time in there.　　 Everyone learned from Ms. Jordan.　

Since she became a regular teacher this term, all of the student grades were A's and that was not because she gave easy tests but because everyone learned everything perfectly that she taught. Ms. Jordan had single handedly raised the math scores on standardized testing due to her teaching.　　

We all loved her!　 Her face was angelic and her smile always lit up the room.　　 There was no way to have a bad day when in Ms Jordan's class.　 We were blessed.

We each handed in our hall passes and took our seats.　 For once I was glad that we did not sit close together because I would not have wanted to cut up in Ms Jordan's class but I was about to burst from the news and Fran was the only one I could talk to about the award.

Class went by quickly and soon we were out and on to our next class.　 For me that was Biology with Mrs. Turner.　　 Fran wasn't in my biology class but Glenda was in there.　　 Glenda was part of the Secret Seven who covered for mundane me when my alter ego Amy was required to appear.　

Each of the Secret Seven had a story of their own to tell.　　 One way or another they had something extraordinary in their lives and that made them trustworthy to keep and protect Amy's secret.　 Contrary to Algebra, Biology seemed to drag on forever.　 However, it finally ended and I only had one class left to go to before lunch.

I knew the way really good to this one since it was the same as my home room taught by the Coach.　 The Coach made history more than places and dates and made it about people.　 In learning how they lived their lives, I learned more about decisions and their consequences than I expected from a history class.　　 Time passed quickly in the coach's class not for the same reason as in Algebra since there was so much material and Coach explained so much that he had to talk as fast and as exciting as he could so that most people could follow and digest the lesson.

On coming into the cafeteria for lunch, I got into line and saw that Fran had already found a secluded　small table overlooking the greenhouse. 　 I took note of where she sat and once I had paid for my tray, I went out to meet her. 　

"Thanks for coming to eat with me, Dee Jay. I'm surprised that you didn't have to get permission from Jenna to come sit with me."

"Jenna means well.　It's just that stunt we pulled that has her over protective of me.　 She never said that I have to sit with her, but that it would be better for me if I did. 　 In the beginning she was right but I doubt that anyone remembers anymore unless someone reminds them."

"You were a good sport.　 I know it was mostly Deidre and your Mom at home that got you ready for our performance art but as a part of the English class, I feel proud of what we accomplished."

"Well it wasn't until the next day when I revealed myself that there was any static.　 That whole day as an updated Juliet from Romeo and Juliet, not one person could tell who I was."

"It was a tribute to your acting skill. 　 It is no wonder that when the speculation on who is this year's Amy goes on, that your name comes up even though there never has been a boy Amy and I bet never will be. 　 It's fun to talk about. When you went to that first dance and showed that you have two left feet, they realized that you could never be Amy!"

"You've got that right! Do you know anything more about this scholarship than what we were told together?"

"Just rumors from others who have been considered.　　 It seems that it is usually in pairs that they are chosen and that they are whisked away to an undisclosed location and disappear."

"Sounds very hush hush as in cloak and dagger stuff."

"I really don't know any more.　 Not even any more rumors.　 I think we ought to stay in touch in case they contact either of us separately to share information."

"That seems like a good idea, Fran."　 I pulled out a card and handed it to her.　 "This is my cell number.　 Call and leave a message anytime and if I can pick up then I will"

"That's weird!　 Your card is the same design as mine.　 Looks like we got them at the same place. Here's my cell phone number, Dee Jay."

Thank's Fran.　　 It's lucky that we were thrown together again cause it seems we are destined to be really good friends"

Fran whispered something under her breath that I didn't catch.　　 "Thanks for eating with me.　　 I have to go to the Library before my next class for some freshman class business.　 See you in English!"

"That I will. Take care."

I was left alone at the table and instead of immediately going over to see Jenna and the girls, I decided to stay put.　 What if I were putting the secret in danger by having too close contact with them?　 Their protection after the incident (which was one of the reasons for doing it in the first place) was no longer needed so it was really past time that I should be put back in circulation.

We'd find other means to convey ARMYdillo information.　 We were always rising to a challenge. Well the challenge now was getting to my next class which would either be very enlightening or rather frustrating depending on how it went.　　 Both Dr Richards and Fran would be there who I had shared so much with today.　　 I was about to see how secret this would be by what happened.

Well an hour later I could conclude it was very frustrating.　　 There wasn't a chance to talk to either of them in class and Dr Richards didn't even call on me or Fran for any of the class discussion.　　 Fran had to hurry on to her next class and I did the same as well because I was due to be lifted from Study Hall to become Amy for the pep rally last period.

I took my traditional seat in study hall by the door.　 Kendra was in the class before and had not left yet. 　 She was leaning over to get something that was wedged under her seat. Due to her short cheerleader skirt and deep plunge top, she was exposing all of her assets to public display. After putting my books down on my desk, I went over and pulled out her book where it was stuck and handed it to her.

"Thanks Dee Jay, you are a life saver!"

"You are welcome Kendra!"　 Kendra couldn't help that she had a body better than a Barbie Doll's that every male lusted over, but they didn't have to be jerks like Dick Wallace

"Dee Jay, what'cha go an' spoil the view! Kendra's a nice piece of ass. Baby's got Back!"

Kendra, as modestly as she could, scurried out to her next class leaving me to respond to Dick.

"Dick, cut her a break. She can't help how she looks!"

I was half hoping the teacher would give Dick detention for embarrassing Kendra like that, but since Dick was the starting tackle on the football team, he could get away with murder and they would chalk it up to flirting instead of harassment like it really was.

While I was mulling over the situation, the Headmistress herself delivered a request for my presence to the teacher, Mr James Hill.　　

"Come along, Dee Jay, I've got preparations ready for that special project you agreed to help on."

"Coming Headmistress."

She led me down into the basement of the gym by using a special door that was ordinarily hidden from view.　　 We had entered Amy's secret domain.　　 Down here was her dressing room, the special fabrication facilities to keep her costume in shape, the secret practice area, and the secret cheerleader's lounge and kitchen.　 It even had a bedroom for special circumstances.　 This facility, along with the Secret Seven, was why Amy's secret had been kept all these years.　　

"Here you are Amy!　 I'll leave you to get ready since I have preparations to make before the pep rally.　 Thank you for your service to LHS and have a great pep rally!

"Thank you, Headmistress."

As she was leaving, Jenna arrived to help me put on the costume.　 Since I was to be eating in between, we were going to be using one of the special features of the mascot costume to substitute my mouth for Amy's which meant I had to be made up completely in the face as a girl might since that's what was expected.　　 We came to the table and Jenna sat on the other side of me and began to work on my face.　　 Jenna was a skilled artist so she was wonderful with makeup.　　 Not much would be visible of her work, but not knowing what might be seen at any angle it was all important to get right and Jenna nailed it.

"There you go, Amy! Hey why didn't you check in with us at lunch today?"

"I think that things have died down from that stunt.　 If we keep using that for an excuse to get together, it might give Amy away.　　 We knew eventually since I'm a guy that I would have to keep my distance at times.　　 Can we work out some other way to keep in touch?"

"Already in place."

She handed me a cell phone with a grin.

"This is the Amy phone! Welcome to our phone tree! You are about to witness the joy of keeping up with all your female friends through the phone.　　 It will be fun!"

"What if someone outside of our team calls to become a part of the conversation?"

"It will automatically drop you off the line if someone outside our circle joins in and one of us will bring you back in when they leave."

"I guess I don't need as much hand holding now as in the beginning."

"That's for sure! You know everything there is to know about Amy now.　 All we have is mundane issues left."

"Thanks for watching out for me and letting me be Amy"

"It is our pleasure.　 You are clearly the best ever Amy! Know that even though only we know who you are the whole school loves Amy and that's due to you!

"Okay, thanks for helping me into the costume.　 I'm going to the practice area to do my warm-ups."

"Great, I'm going up to get ready with the squad. 　 Meet us upstairs in our room 15 minutes before the pep rally."

"I'm on it!"

Jenna let herself out the secret door and I limbered up and did my stretches. 　 I had the scoreboard clock counting down to the time I had to go. 　 At last having taken care of all the necessaries, I was ready to join the rest of the squad in preparation for the pep rally　

The pep rally began with us all singing the Lamur Institute Alma Mater.　 That song really meant a lot to us.　　 It warmed my heart to hear the student body’s voices blending with our own as we sounded the way we all felt.　 We were in unity of spirit and purpose and with respect to the traditions of the Lamur Institute,

We had a small baseball diamond laid out on the gym floor which was prepared for the introduction of tonight’s starting lineup for our first baseball game of the season. Jenna and Star lined up on the right side of the door where the team would enter from while Hailey and Kendra lined up on the left side.　 I, as Amy, stood with my back to the entering players along the path they would take to the diamond.　　It was a tradition that each had to touch me on my back somewhere for good luck.　　 Few touched me at my shoulders, since most could not resist the impulse to give my fanny a pat.

With the team introduced we launched into a series of cheers that brought the student body out of their seats and revved up their enthusiasm.　 One of the cheers introduced the squad in a really cute way that I enjoyed.　　 When the pep band struck up the musical interlude, I realized they had on tap my favorite song for the team to dance to.　　 In the original song "Jump in the Line" which was also known as "Shake Senora" written by Aldwyn Roberts © 1946, it was about Senora but in our adaptation it was about Amy and I was the star of the show.　

"Dance, Dance Dance Amy, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake Amy, shake it all the time
Work, work, work Amy, work your body line
Work, work, work Amy, work it all the time
My girl's name is Amy. I tell you friends I adore her.
When she dances oh, brother,
she's a hurricane in all kinds of weather.

Jump in the line rock your body in time.
O-kay! I believe you.
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Oh!

Dance, Dance Dance Amy, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake Amy, shake it all the time
Work, work, work Amy, work your body line
Work, work, work Amy, work it all the time

You can talk about cha-cha, tango, waltz or the rhumba.
Amy's dance has no title.
Jump in the saddle hold on to the bridle.

Jump in the line rock your body in time.
O-kay! I believe you.
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Rock your body, Child!
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Somebody help me!
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Oh!

Dance, Dance Dance Amy, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake Amy, shake it all the time
Work, work, work Amy, work your body line
Work, work, work Amy, work it all the time

Amy she's a sensation, the reason for aviation.
And fellas you've got to watch it.
When she wind up she bottom, she go like a rocket.

Jump in the line rock your body in time.
O-kay! I believe you.
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Hoist those skirts a little higher!
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Up the chimney!
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Oh!

Dance, Dance Dance Amy, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake Amy, shake it all the time
Work, work, work Amy, work your body line
Work, work, work Amy, work it all the time

Amy dances calypso. Left to right is the tempo.
And when she gets the sensation,
she go up in the air come down in slow motion.

Jump in the line rock your body in time.
O-kay! I believe you.
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Somebody help me!
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
O-kay! I believe you.
Jump in the line rock your body in time.
Oh!

Dance, Dance Dance Amy, shake your body line
Shake, shake, shake Amy, shake it all the time
Work, work, work Amy, work your body line
Work, work, work Amy, work it all the time"

I had quite a workout with that since I was dancing and shaking it and working it all the time.　 Coach Nestle, my homeroom teacher, really knew how to inspire everyone with his speaking.　 When the speech was through, he had us believing that we would be taking home a championship that depended on each student and athlete doing their part to achieve that goal, We went into my favorite cheer right after the coach gave us the breather by delivering that motivational speech.

"Okay Amy, Ready to shine!"

I answered in my Amy voice, "You Bet!"

Jenna started us with the call:

"Spell Out Amy! Hit It"

We all joined in right on the beat!　 Jenna and Star were formed up on the right of me while　Hailey and Kendra were on my left.　 As they danced in time to the beat, they would move their pom poms from the outside to center and to the inside.　 As Amy, I danced in the center.　　I was the star of this cheer and I didn’t want to let down my teammates nor the student body who poured out their adoration.

"Aye Emm Wye　 clap clapity　 clap clap clap ~ Amy!

Aye Emm Wye　 clap clapity　 clap clap clap ~ Amy!"

I held my "A" pose while they all chanted:

"Aye ~ Ambition for our baseball team!"

I held my "M" pose during the phrase:

"Emm ~ Mighty to beat our en-e-my!"

I posed as a "Y" as their yell continued:

"Wye ~ Yell out to all our Vic-to-ry!"

I started my last tumbling run as they returned to what they were doing in the beginning.

"Aye Emm Wye　 clap clapity　 clap clap clap ~ Amy!

Aye Emm Wye　 clap clapity　 clap clap clap ~ Amy!

Yeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh　 Aaaiiiimmmeee!

Yeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!"

While the other cheerleaders jumped up and down and shook their pom poms in salute to Amy, I maintained the split in the middle of them that I ended up in after my tumbling run down the center of them all.　

The student body went wild cheering!　 They sure loved Amy and I was glad that I had a part in keeping the tradition alive.

"You all did good!　 Let's go get some food and then we'll be ready to cheer the baseball team on to victory for their home opening game of the season!"

"I like that, Jenna!"

We followed her out of the gym to the cafeteria where the catered supper was waiting for us.　 On the way I stopped by the secret room to reconfigure the head portion of the Amy costume to exclude the articulated lips and revealed the gap so that my own mouth would be exposed. 　 I checked to make sure my makeup was still okay and it was.　 Jenna used some very long lasting lipstick on me!　 With that chore taken care of, I joined the rest of the squad in the Cafeteria.

It was a feast, I filled up on salad and got a taste of a burger and a hot dog.　　 I was a little nervous eating in the costume but with care and a big Amy-sized napkin protecting from any spillage everything went well.　　 We soon helped Hailey's and Chelsea's Mom clean up the remains, although I could not do much hampered by the costume. I was able to push carts back to the kitchen.　 We had free time until the pre-game warm ups and those who had tickets for the game were able to get into the large open area around the ball park and there were groups of students and alumni with picnics of their own.　　 We split up and spread the cheer to the groups by performing individually for them.

I was swung around as I was off balance from dancing by someone who had a hold of my arm and was pulling my head toward him. I recognized Dick Wallace just before he laid a French kiss on me that he would not let go!

"There, now I've stolen a kiss from all the cheerleaders, but yours was the best yet Amy!"

I couldn't breathe while he kissed me and I was still trying to catch my breath so I couldn't speak.

"Why don't you come out of that breast plate as well so I can cop a feel of your tits?"

I thought that I was a goner but then I saw Hailey out of the corner of my eye.　 She was chanting something and making motions in Dick's direction.　 I was just about recovered enough to do what I felt was my first reaction and that was to drive a kick as hard and as deep as I could into his groin to cause him maximum damage.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!"

The scream started in base and cracked and finished as a soprano.　　 I hadn't touched him.　 I wanted to kick him but I hadn't.　 The thing was that he looked like someone had kicked him where the sun doesn't shine. Hailey grabbed me and spirited me away back to the secret room.

She got me out of the costume and I had a good cry on her shoulder.　　

"What happened?"

"I think he was about to rape me. I was going to kick him down there and before I made up my mind, he was already doubled over in pain but no one touched him."

"It was Majick, Dee Jay.　 Nothing permanent and no damage.　　 His reproductive system is temporarily shut down and the process for doing that caused pain but no damage.　　 It will come back better than new, hopefully his lust won't overcome him again.　　 I'm sorry sweetie that you had to endure that oaf forcing himself on you."

"That's what I saw you doing out of the corner of my eye then?"

"As you can tell now, Majick is real.　 Besides the Secret Room and the Secret Seven, the Circle that I'm part of is part of the protection that all the Amy's have had and now it's yours too. 　 We can't do things too dramatically individually. 　 It takes all of us on a certain place time and day to get really big things done."

"I'm feeling better!　 I need to get back in the costume for the game!"

"Amy sweetheart, there's still time. 　 I need you to go lay down on the bed and rest.　 All of us will come down and get you ready to go just before the game so you can recover."

"Okay Momma!"　 I giggled and let Hailey lead me to bed where I got under the covers and drifted off.

Before I knew it, I was awake completely refreshed and I was no longer obsessing on the kiss.　 I took care of what I needed to in the bathroom and when I returned the entire squad was there lending moral support and getting me ready to go work the game.

We made our entrance to the field and then positioned ourselves to cheer the team onto the diamond. I don't think we ever cheered better as a squad. We were all cohesive and our most　 enthusiastic. It took everything we had to cheer them on to victory!　 The biggest fault was our starting pitching. It seemed that no one was able to follow what the coaches wanted from their pitching.　 It would not have hurt to have a little more offense too. It was a 6-6 tie coming down to the bottom of the ninth and a boy who I had played JV baseball last year came off the bench to hit a pinch hit home run to win the game.　

I think besides the dismal playing at times, the one thing that kept my head out of the game was that I was faced with the reality that Majick is real and that Hailey had it. It was a bit comforting to have all of the squad support me and Hailey saved me using her Majick. It was upsetting to consider what something like that would do in the hands of someone like Dick. It was a bit of poetic justice that he would be sexless for a while since his sex drive got him into trouble.

I didn't get to participate in the post game party because I had to be spirited away to validate my alibi for the evening so that no one could connect me with Amy. Another of the Secret Seven drove me over to the meeting where Deidre was so that I could share the last part of it with her.

I recognized Kendra’s Mom beside Deirdre at the meeting. I slipped in and took her place holding Deirdre’s hand. She looked over me and gave me a big smile and whispered, "I’m so glad that you are here, Dee Jay."　

I patted her hand and smiled back at her, not wanting to detract from the girl who was currently sharing in the circle.　 Deidre sure has come a long way, I thought as I relaxed and focused on the girl who was sharing in the circle. As I relaxed into a feminine posture, those looking at the pair of us might guess that I was the transgirl and Deidre was the moral support. Deidre was one of the Secret Seven who helped preserve the secret of Amy. We had fallen into becoming best friends soon after we met. Here was this very lovely girl with a special challenge, but she gave of her time anyway to uphold our tradition.　 I made the commitment to her to be her real support instead of just a sometimes stand in and never regretted spending each Friday with her.

As each girl shared around the circle, some with moral support and some by themselves, I could not get over the sheer courage that poured out as the common thread in each of their stories. Too soon for me since I had gotten there late, the last girl had shared and the therapist gave us all some things to consider. Before she would let us go, she had another announcement.

"Girls, I am so sorry to disrupt our weekly meetings but I have been assigned to teach a Monday Wednesday Friday class in the evenings, this quarter at the University. I’m going to have to move our meetings to Tuesdays until the quarter is over. We’ll skip next week and resume the following week on Tuesday. I look forward to seeing you all then."

There were a chorus of goodbyes from the girls as they started to get up and scatter going their separate ways.　 I looked over at Deidre.

"How’s Tuesday going to work for you?"

"It’s going to be fine for me but have you looked at the baseball schedule?"

"Not yet, why?"

"There aren’t many games on Tuesdays. I’m not going to be of as much help as I was.　 I hope that we can cover Fridays without me."

"You all have pulled off some miracles covering for me this year. I imagine you all still have a few left in you."

"Just so long as I get to save one special miracle for me.　 Am I selfish to want that?"

"You are one of the least selfish girls that I know."

"I’m in good company, honorary girlfriend."

"Thanks!" We hugged a girl type hug and then she giggled and I snickered.　 I had been made an honorary girl by the circle for my support and friendship with Deidre.　 But I was also an honorary girl by being the person inside Amy, so what she said had a second secret meaning.

Just then we both spotted our mothers entering the room.　　 Deidre got up and rushed over to her mom and gave her a big hug. I too got up and gave a big hug to my Mom. When I emerged from the hug, Deidre and her Mom had already gone.

"I love you, Mom"

"I love you too, Dee Jay!　 How was your day today?"

"Mom, do I have a story to tell you!"

"Well it’s late, so how about we make it a bedtime story only you get to do the telling."

"Fine by me! I’m really tired out."

Mom knew best.　 She drove me home and I bathed and got ready for bed. Then she tucked me in like she used to when I was little and I told her the story of my day.　 Only thing was that I was still trying to tell it when I fell asleep.

---

Part Two - Cheerleader MIA!

[Saturday Day Two of the Full Moon]

"Do wah diddy diddy, Do wah diddy diddy, Do wah diddy diddy, one-a, two-a,

three-a, four-a…

Do wah diddy diddy, Do wah diddy diddy ,Do wah diddy diddy, one-a ,two-a,

three-a, four-a ..."

That was the sound of the music inside my head as I remembered our practice. Jenna initiated the routine with Jenna and me, side by side. The silent count started as Jenna slapped her thighs with her arms coming down into first position. Once the routine started, it was as though I was not the same person at all, as if my body was possessed by a great dancer and gymnast. While I was doing the routine with Hailey, Kendra and Star with Jenna watching, it was as if I was in possession of something special. It was not as grand as the secrets of the universe but it might be the secret of my real identity.

The girls were all in peak condition and in peak form as they trained for the cheerleader competition. I was proud to be part of them and to help them become their best. When tryouts were held at the beginning of the year, I won the job of being the school mascot, "Amy the ARMYdillo". Lamur AFB was originally an Army Air Corp base, which explained the ARMY in our mascot's name for our high school, the Lamur Institute. A very talented person had made the costume cute as a button as opposed to the animal in real life.

Ours was traditionally an all female cheerleading squad. So Jenna, the cheerleader captain, didn't know what to think of me trying out for mascot. However, my special talent was to be able to be shown a dance routine once and reproduce it with all the nuances and feelings. Jenna realized that I could be a stand in for when she turned to face the girls to evaluate how a new routine worked or to coach the other girls to give their best performance. She reasoned that since I moved like a girl that it really didn't matter whether there was a boy or girl inside the mascot suit.

Hailey recruited her sister, Chelsea, who was in eighth grade, to be my backup in the mascot suit, and also when I practiced the main routine with the girls, she would do the mascot's part. It was a tradition that the identity of the mascot was a strict secret, to aid in the illusion that the mascot itself was real and not just someone in a suit. Just like it didn't matter if I were in the suit, it would not matter when Chelsea was in the suit. Chelsea and I would work on the mascot routines together so that she was ready to step in just in case my time as mascot ended suddenly. Chelsea was trustworthy and we knew that she could keep the secrets.

But all of a sudden our world came tumbling down. Jenna's mom was assigned overseas as a nurse at the hospital at Ramstein AFB in Germany. Mom had been learning a specialty in college that had kept her in the same assignment here at Lamur, GA since Jenna had started high school. With her graduation, the Air Force needed her overseas for duty.

I felt really left out that Jenna never came to me to say goodbye in person, like she did with the girls on the cheerleading squad and even Chelsea. Although she must not have considered me a friend, I considered her one. It hurt deep that I had to hear about everything second hand.

Hailey had become cheerleading squad captain as a result of Jenna leaving. Because the competition loomed close, she thought that it would be impossible to get another girl into championship form with the routines we had. Turning me into a girl, so I could do the routines with them, was the only solution she could think of to solve it.

What I didn't realize was that Hailey didn't mean just dressing me up as a disguise to fool the competition judges. Haily and the other cheerleaders made up most of a circle which had accomplished miracles before. One of them sure saved me when I had almost been raped posing as Amy. Hailey's circle would try to turn me into a girl for real for one cycle of the moon.

"I said that I would do it, Hailey!"

"O Goodness Deej! You are a life saver!"

"I don't know about that! I enjoyed helping Jenna and y’all practice."

"We need you Deej! Jenna's already gone overseas with her mom! The routine only works if we all move as a unit."

"I could not believe it when her Mom's posting changed so suddenly. It is very hard to be parted from Jenna. Why couldn't she stay with someone else to finish the term?"

"Jenna's Mom wouldn't trust anyone to watch her since she feared her estranged husband would kidnap her. We all miss her. She was so heartbroken that we would have to drop out with only Kendra, Star and me left. When we are able to show off her brilliance for inventing the routine, Jenna will be proud that it wasn't in vain."

"Do you think we could really pull this off?"

"As long as you don't lose your cool everything will be fine."

"But what about the details? Even though I can move like a girl in the routine, I don't know the first thing about being a girl. I'm about the right size for a girl, but I don't have the right shape for a girl. Also, people know me as a boy, not as a girl."

"Well we will have to bring your mother in on this for sure. No offence, but your father passing away will make things easier. We'll all go with you to your mother and get her blessing for what we have in mind. The other stuff, your mind and body and how other people see you, we three will divide things up to make it so you will be able to cope."

"How did you divide that up?"

"I'm going to take care of your body issues, Kendra will take care of your mind issues, and Star will take care of how others see you."

"I'm still clueless how you feel you will manage that, but I can wait on that ‘til you all speak to my mother."

"Good deal! Kendra! Star! Chelsea! We are taking Deej home and filling in 'her' mother on the plans!"

"We have plans?" Kendra asked as Star bumped her playfully and she exclaimed, "Oh, those plans! Okay, I'm ready."

We all climbed into Hailey's pink convertible that whisked us away for a boisterous ride over to my house.

I rang the doorbell since I was bringing home company. Mom greeted us at the door, "Dee Jay! Girls! Come in. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

"Mrs. Russell, we'd like to talk to you about Deej, uh Dee Jay, but first can we show you this video of our practice?"

"Sure Hailey! Dee Jay could you put on the DVD in the living room and we'll watch it in there."

"Yes Ma'am."

I led the girls into the living room and everyone got settled while I put it on. The video was one of me standing in for Jenna at our last practice with her showing our championship form for the competition.

When it was over, my mother was very impressed with the team's performance, "Girls, when I was in high school, our cheerleading team won our competition and that routine that Jenna invented should win you the trophy. I am so proud of all of you. Where is Jenna by the way?"

"Jenna's mom was reassigned overseas and Jenna went with her. The competition is a few weeks away and there is not a girl at the high school who could learn the routine and have it at championship form by then."

"What are you asking me, Hailey?"

"We would like for Dee Jay to do the routine with us for the competition. Dee Jay knows it and is on the squad already. All we would have to do is to get Dee Jay to look like one of us before then."

"Then Dee Jay would have to become a girl, and not just any girl, a cheerleader, in order to do the routines. This would not work with Dee Jay in the mascot suit would it, Hailey?"

"Yes, Mrs. Russell, we would like for Deej to become a female cheerleader. She already moves like one of us. She only has to look the part. It's like another costume since she is used to being a mascot."

"Hailey, you realize that you are already referring to Dee Jay in the feminine. And it's not quite like the mascot since Dee Jay would have to be a girl 24/7 in order to pull this off."

"We need her! There is no one else who can do this. Without her we are out of the competition."

"Girls, I haven't said ‘no,’ yet. Just how did you expect to pull this off even with my full cooperation?"

"Well, we have a cover story in mind for Dee Jay to explain a female twin sister showing up right now with his disappearance. Star is secretly a geekette hacker who can arrange for all the paperwork and proper entries in computer systems to validate her with everyone including the school and the competition authorities. Kendra's secret is that she was born Ken and got some special help to be the girl she is today. Kendra can help Dee Jay cope with living as a girl and getting her adjusted. My secret is that I am a Wiccan and I know a spell that can give a boy the chance to find out what it is like to be a girl. It would last long enough for us to do the competition. If Dee Jay was meant to be a girl then, like Kendra, would remain a girl, but if not, then Dee Jay would completely revert back to being a boy with no adverse effects."

"I guess that if Dee Jay really has a girl's mind then it would be better to find out sooner, than later, as far as that goes. Dee Jay, what do you say about this?"

"Mom, it sounds like my friends have all the bases covered and that they will take care of me. I want to help them and being a girl can't be such a bad thing since half the people on the planet cope with it well."

"It's not a bad thing Dee Jay for those who were born to it. We don't know that about you, yet. How long will the spell last, Hailey? And can you bring Dee Jay out of it before it runs its course if Dee Jay shows distress in this situation?"

"Ordinarily it would last for a month. The spell's intent is to do no harm and distress on Dee Jay's part would allow me to release Dee Jay early, even if we had not completed the competition."

"Both Dee Jay and I want you all to succeed so I will give my blessing to Dee Jay becoming a cheerleader for the next month to complete the completion. If it turns out that I really have a daughter permanently, I will do my best to help her adjust. I want to be included in everything that you do on Dee Jay's behalf."

"I promise you will be, Mrs. Russell. What would Dee Jay's name have been if she had been born female?"

"She would have been Denise Janice. Dee Jay would you like for that to be your name for now?"

"Yes, Mom. I want to be your daughter, Denise."

"Both Star and I have some preparations to make before we do our part to bring Denise to life. Guess we need to go. See you in school, Deej."

"Take care, y’all"

"Bye, bye."

The girls left and a silence fell on both of us until I broke it. "You are the coolest mom ever to help us with this so we can have a chance of winning the competition."

"Denise, being a young woman brings opportunities and challenges that you can't begin to imagine right now, all by themselves. Coping with those having never grown up a girl and being thrust into it immediately makes it just so much harder. Your friends are in this for the team, but I'm in it for you. Please don't forget me as you are caught up in the experiences of this since I can help you in a way that your friends can't having lived through some of the experiences that you are about to have."

"Momma, I love you always and I know you love me. I'll keep you close. You think they are missing something in their haste to get me to a way that I can help?"

"I'm sure of it. Even Kendra may not realize now what you will be going through. Think about it. Do you remember Kendra ever being Ken?"

"I've seen videos of Kendra as a four-year-old girl."

"I believe when that spell changed Kendra permanently into a girl then it did it retroactively to her conception. That must have erased all the consequences of being thrown into the middle of things. And Kendra owes Hailey a lot since she saved Kendra from her fate of being in the wrong body so she is not likely to reveal any of the downsides to what you are going to go through out of loyalty to Hailey and the team."

"What could happen in a month that could be that traumatic?"

"A boy could happen to you. Let's think about that spell a little more. Suppose you were to get pregnant under this, ‘Do no harm’ spell, what do you think might happen?"

I hesitated to answer and wondered why Momma had brought up such a thing. It seemed to me that she was familiar with this situation having encountered it before. How? When? Why? I wasn't sure that I wanted to know those answers. Do any of us really know our parents? Ignoring why Momma asked, there still was the question, which itself was valid, and I tried to answer as best I could. I could tell I was already in over my head and I looked to Momma to throw me a lifeline to get me through this.

"I might not be able to get an abortion and I might stay a girl for the entire pregnancy. Momma can I get birth control, like immediately after they change me to Denise for real? Could you like... take a vacation, and, like .... watch over me ‘til this is over?"

"I love you, Denise. I have that vacation time I was banking in case an emergency came up and this looks like this is it. Let's see. I could come across as being one of those mothers who smother their children trying to relive their lives through them, a real stage mother. I could be appointed adult supervisor over the cheerleaders. They haven't needed one with Jenna in charge, but I bet I could make a case both to have one and for me to be it over the next month since she left and Hailey is not used to being in charge. Of course, that would make me a chaperone for the competition as well. Will that suit you, Denise? You'll be seeing a whole lot of me and I'll have to act the part."

"This daughter is going to love having a stage mother."

I hugged Momma and gave her a kiss on her cheek. Momma hugged back and then we broke.

"Denise, I'm going to go ahead and set up that vacation and we'll have to wait ‘til they do whatever with the records for me to put the rest into place. I'll save the stage mother act ‘til things get going since I am sure they are not going to want the adult supervision."

"I want it Momma! Thanks so much for watching out for me."

"Take care, Kiddo. I'll make those calls and be back to talk some more about what you've gotten yourself into."

Momma went upstairs to her room to make those calls. That gave me the time to think about what Momma and I had talked about. As Dee Jay, Mom and I had been close but it seemed like, as Denise, we would be a lot closer. Some of that I'm sure would be that mother/daughter thing which I had observed in my friends but never expected to experience. I was about to get it very intensely because I asked for it and need it. I thought about my dancing ability, and how I was able to emulate girls' movements. Men could dance, of all lifestyles, so being able to dance like a girl did not necessarily mean that I was one. Lots of male actors have played women's parts but that did not make them women either. In the end, the spell having giving me a month to be sure whether I had a female spirit, would decide my fate a lot more suddenly and conclusively than those transgendered girls in that documentary I had seen.

Momma was back with the gleam in her eye that I saw when she felt that she had successfully set up a project. "Denise, I have the next month off to be with you. I also have called some

friends to help out with advice and to look over your friends’ handiwork. I met all of these women in college and after explaining the situation they all volunteered to help. Rebecca is a Wiccan and she is now on a plane from San Antonio to see what kind of spell Hailey weaves and to put right any mistake she might make. We won't see Jennifer in person, but she will monitor the hacking that is done on your behalf by Star and make sure that is right. Alicia is a transwoman and she will be visiting later on after you've started to get into some situations to help you out, especially with the emotional issues."

"What emotional issues, Momma?"

"You are going to experience so much more intense emotions than what you are used to and you still don't know how to deal with the ones that you have, yet. Reacting only from emotion, can make a challenge a lot harder. You will be dealing with interpersonal issues that would not be easy for you even if you had grown into this, instead of being thrust in the middle of things."

"It seems like you have got everything covered, Momma. Thank you for being so wonderful to me."

"I've done my best for you, Denise. Even with the best planning there is always the unknown to deal with and that's why I want to be close so I can catch what ever it is and help you through it."

The phone rang then and Hailey was at the other end. She told me that the hacking was going well and that she had the spell ready but we would have to wait until midnight in order for it to be effective. We were to meet her in the grove of trees near the edge of town where there were rumors of strange happenings going on. Hailey told me that it had been a sacred place for ages and the best place for us to do the spell.

After I got off the phone, I relayed everything that Hailey had said to Mom.

"That will work out well, Denise. Rebecca's flight will be in before then, so she can go with us to where the spell will take place."

"I feel a whole lot better about this since you stepped in Momma. I didn't really know what I was getting into but I wanted to help. Now I know a little more and I have you and your friends to watch out for me."

"Thank you, Sweetheart. That means a whole lot to me. There is a lot to being a daughter that girls learn to cope with but I'll try to make it as painless as possible for you."

"I love you Mom, what shall we do while we wait for your friend to arrive?"

"I have just the video to watch and I hope it will introduce you to a new perspective."

Before she put on "You've Got Mail," starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks, she asked me to imagine myself as Meg Ryan's character. They go through a lot of situations since they are internet pen pals, but don't know that they really know each other in real life. Tom Hank's character finds out, but is faced with the consequences of his actions toward her in business. In the end, Meg Ryan's character finds out the internet pen pal's identity and they live happily ever after. I learned a lot from the experience and I think that she put that one on because it deals with a secret identity and I was about to obtain a secret identity myself.

I left with a glow from the vicarious experience of the movie. I think I might have even shed a tear. Soon Momma drove us to the airport to meet her college friend. It was nice to see the recognition on their faces. Then they caught up with what each other did over the years that seemed to pass in a few moments.

They then turned to me and Momma introduced us, "Rebecca, this is my child, Dee Jay. Dee Jay this is my college friend, Rebecca."

"I'm very glad to meet you Miss Rebecca. Thank you for dropping everything to help."

"I'm glad to meet you, too, Dee Jay. When your mother told me what you were about to do, I felt this was the place for me to be."

"Let's get us home. Rebecca, you'll be able to relax a bit before the big event starts."

"I'd like that, Patricia. I only have this carry on, so we can go straight to your car."

The three of us walked to Momma's car and got in and then the real conversation started. In private Rebecca followed my mother's lead and started calling me Denise. I guess it was to get me used to what would be real in a little while.

"Denise, you are very loyal to take on something like this. It's amazing that your friends have just the gifts that could keep this from being a comedy of errors. The rest of your mother's friends and I will try to make sure that they get it right. You still have the tough job of becoming a different person in a short amount of time and that's something even with all the help that you will need to do yourself."

"Miss Rebecca, can you tell how this is going to turn out with me?"

"Denise, I know how it is supposed to turn out, but magic is unpredictable, so the final determination will be living through it. The kind of spell that is on Kendra that Hailey intends to put on you could force you to be female both physically and mentally, if you become a mother. I know what can happen but it is up to you what will happen by the choices that you make. Help will be available but you have to accept it for it to do any good. I have a bit more skill than Hailey so I'll make it as easy on you coping with the changes that I can."

"Miss Rebecca, how will they do it?"

"We White Lighters draw strength and energy from nature and put it to useful purposes like the spell that will allow you to be a girl. A circle of like minded individuals all drawing on the power and focusing it on the person or object in the middle. I imagine that Hailey will be with her circle in a spot that tends to focus the energy and aids in its collection. They will recognize me as, at least, a peer and maybe even a mentor. They will allow me to enter the circle with them and it is there that I can best do what I have promised."

"What about you, Mom, if I am in the middle and Miss Rebecca is part of the circle?"

"I'll be close by, Sweetheart, but far enough away that nothing unintended strikes me as well since we have family ties. That's why Rebecca is standing in for me since my presence where everything is occurring could make some unexpected happenings to occur and this will be hard enough if it works out as planned."

We waited for a while and finally Hailey called and told me to hand the phone to my mother so she could tell Mom how to get to the place that they had set for my transformation. Mom indicated that it was in an ancient grove of live oak trees that was sacred to the Indians and close by the most sacred place there was a place of meeting. I remembered that a developer had bought it and wanted to bulldoze the whole thing, but mysteriously changed his mind and donated it to be a perpetual conservation area that was not be disturbed in any way, but open to people to enjoy but they had to leave their technology, even cars behind when they went into the preserve. I would not have been surprised if the Circle had done what the conservationists and historians could not and get through to the developer.

We drove to the parking lot and Mom waited with the car outside the preserve. Ordinarily the gates were locked this late, but mysteriously they were open as Miss Rebecca and I went along the path to the area where Hailey waited for us.

Hailey was a bit surprised that I was not alone, but immediately went up and greeted Rebecca with two kisses on each cheek.

"Child of Light, we are honored by your presence. I was not aware that Dee Jay knew anyone of your eminence."

"Her mother remembered me from college and I was intrigued by Denise's sacrifice and your preparation that I had to come join with you in this worthy endeavor. I am Rebecca, and you must be Denise's friend, Hailey."

"I am Hailey. We would be honored for you to join us. The Circle awaits in the clearing. Deej, all you will have to do is stand in the center and we'll do the rest."

"Thank you Hailey for making this impossible dream come true. I can't wait to really fit in and dance with y’all."

"That's the plan, De...nice. I guess you are not going to be the only one to have to get used to things being different."

The three of us fell silent as we came into the clearing. Five girls stood in the circle with two spots vacant. I didn't recognize the other girls but one of the five was Courtney. I smiled at her and she smiled back at me. I passed thru into the center where Hailey indicated I should stand.

When Hailey and Rebecca took the empty spots, the seven stood equidistant from each other around the circle. I felt some kind of power as the earth beneath my feet vibrated with energy. The seven of them sang in perfect harmony. It was a song I recognized from church called "Lord of the Dance" from a traditional Celtic melody with words by Sydney Carter. It was unexpected to hear it being sung in the circle did not make it any less appreciated.

"I danced in the morning when the world was begun
I danced in the Moon & the Stars & the Sun
I came down from Heaven & I danced on Earth
At Bethlehem I had my birth:

Dance then, wherever you may be
I am the Lord of the Dance, said He!
And I'll lead you all, wherever you may be
And I'll lead you all in the Dance, said He!

I danced on a Friday when the sky turned black
It's hard to dance with the devil on your back
They buried my body & they thought I'd gone
But I am the Dance & I still go on!

Dance then, wherever you may be
I am the Lord of the Dance, said He!
And I'll lead you all, wherever you may be
And I'll lead you all in the Dance, said He!

They cut me down and I leapt up high
I am the Life that'll never, never die!
I'll live in you if you'll live in Me-
I am the Lord of the Dance, said He!

Dance then, wherever you may be
I am the Lord of the Dance, said He!
And I'll lead you all, wherever you may be
And I'll lead you all in the Dance, said He!
(...lead you all in the Dance, said He!)"

They danced in place as they sang as the power grew greater and greater. I'm not sure that the words I heard was what they actually sang or if I perceived them in a way that was comforting to me. Suddenly, the wind blew from all directions into the center of the circle keeping me in place so I could not move if I wanted to move. Clouds rolled in from nowhere, covering the area, and we all became enshrouded by a thick fog forced in by the winds, piling up so that I could no longer see the girls in the Circle and they could not see me. I felt goose bumps when a huge electrical charge struck the ground around me. Yet, I was unharmed, as a clap of thunder followed almost immediately. Thankfully, I did not have to bear any more of the sensory overload as I passed blissfully into unconsciousness.

---

Part Three ~ Ruled By The Moon

[Monday Day Two of the Enchantment]

I awoke in a place that was both familiar and strange.　 It seemed to be the right place to be.　 Looking out the window from the bed I was laying on I saw the same view that I had woken to ever since we had moved in here. The tree branches framed the window as it overlooked the garden of our next door neighbor. The bed that I was on was a four poster with a canopy made of white lace and the bedspread and the pillows that I lay on matched.　 The walls were now a lilac color with an accent wall of baby blue.　 My rustic furniture was gone replaced with an ornate dresser and chest of drawers and a matching desk replacing my utilitarian one.　 In the place of my stack of stereo equipment and video equipment and games was a tasteful hutch complementing the rest of my furniture and in the place of my footlocker was something I had never dreamed would inhabit my room, a makeup table filled with all manner of cosmetics.

Of course the most important change was me, myself. I had long blond hair that draped across my shoulders and ran down my back.　 My view of my feet were blocked by a pair of breasts.　　I might have called them hooters before but when they were attached to me they were certainly not that.　 My waist was so thin and my hips wide and my feet and hands tiny.　 In short I was female.　 You might have thought that I would be underneath the nightgown that I was wearing exploring the new horizons. However, somehow I knew what that would reveal and it seemed no more new and no more compelling to me than what it had replaced had been　 before.　 I guessed that blessing was due to Miss Rebecca's efforts so that I would not waste time with idol curiosity and instead devote my effort to things that could really help.

I offered a silent prayer of thanks that I was not engaged in such activities when a knock followed by Mom coming in to my bedside.

"Denise, I am glad that you are up and around. Rebecca explained to me that with all the changes that your body just needed a chance to recover which is why you have been asleep for so long."

"How long have I been out?"

"About 36 hours, it's noon of the next day.　 While you were sleeping we made a few changes so you would have comfortable surroundings for your new life."

"It's funny but I should be beside myself since so much has changed but it all feels normal to me."

"That's something that Rebecca added to the spell to help things.　 She did not want you to be overly concerned but someone in that circle had it out for you.　 They introduced something that would have given you an extreme sex drive.　 The safeguard to prevent　a mother from disappearing and leaving a child an orphan would force you to be female permanently, if you get pregnant.　 Someone wanted to be very sure that that happened.　 Rebecca was able to cancel that addition.　 The only thing that Rebecca was sure is that it did not come from Hailey but it could have come from one of the other five.　　Ordinarily she would have been able to tell exactly where it came from but there was a very high power source in one of the girls in the circle that masked the origin.　 Rebecca didn't　think Hailey would have been able to accomplish the spell without the person who was the source of that tremendous power."

"But Rebecca took care of it, right? Is that it and where is Rebecca?"

"For now things are settled and Rebecca put some protection in the spell that will make it impossible for someone to increase your sex drive now through majick.　 However, they could spell someone else and place you in a compromising position as a result of their actions.　 Rebecca put　 some wards in place that will alert the person from her circle who is coming to replace her if you get near someone under a spell that might be trouble.　 Rebecca flew home on a military jet to meet with her circle about what happened.　 She won't be back but she sent Alicia to take her place. This is the same Alicia, who is a transwoman, who was going to come to help with issues that Kendra can't help you with.　　 　　　

"Thank you Momma.　 I don't know anyone who would have it out for me to ruin my life by trying to get me pregnant.　 I guess it is true what they say about no good deed going unpunished."

"Alicia and I will be watching out for you.　 You'll meet Alicia soon.　 Hopefully, we will make sure that they don't succeed."

"Mom, did Rebecca tell you why I feel so normal being a girl?　 This situation should have me really uncomfortable with my body and aroused at my own appearance."

"She said that the spell had a kind of training wheels phase to get you through the first half of the month.　 That effect, while it is present, will override what you really feel and perceive.　　You need to fit in as a girl now for the cheerleading squad to be able to enter the competition and the 'training wheels' will help you do that.　 Not only do you feel as though you were born a girl but you'll have knowledge and skills that a girl your age would have."

"How will I get through the second half of the month when this all fades away?"

"If you are really a girl inside, the comfort with being female won't go away since that will be a real part of you.　 Otherwise you'll just have to cope as best you can.　 Remember that you were told that if you became really uncomfortable with the situation that Hailey could cut your time as a girl short.　 While you won't automatically know how to do things or know some information, those are things that you can learn or be helped with either for the remaining time till you become a boy again or for your continuing life as a girl."

"Oh goodness gracious!　 What about my period? When will I get it and how will I cope with it?"

"You had the remainder of your first period while you were unconscious following the transformation so you won't have to deal with your period much unless you remain a girl for more than the month."　　

"No offence, Momma, but I'm glad of that especially since the last half of the month I will have to cope on my own."

"That's okay Sweetie.　 You'll have plenty of time to get used to it if you remain a girl."

"Oh Joy!　　Although I guess that not having a period means being barren and I wouldn't want to be deprived of the ability to bear a child if I were female."

"Like everything it has its upside and downside but I personally feel that the upside is the best.　　I would not trade anything for the experience of feeling you growing inside me.　 It was well worth any sacrifice."

I wondered if she had given up being a guy to be pregnant with me.　 I was still not ready to ask her how come she knew so much about this kind of spell.　 Even if that were not her sacrifice, it felt good that she felt that bringing me into the world was worth any sacrifice.

"Thank you Mother!　 I love you too! So when do I get to meet Alicia?"

"She's here in the guest room sleeping. She stayed up,　watching over you, last night while I slept."

"I feel good. Is there any reason why I should remain in bed? "

"Both Rebecca and Alicia have told me that when you felt like getting up then you could.　　If you are stuck not knowing how to do something just relax, let go and the 'training wheels' will get you through it."　

"Then I guess I'll get up now, Momma"

"I'll give you some privacy. Come down to the kitchen when you are finished getting ready.　 Do you feel up to having Hailey and Courtney over?　 They asked to be called when you woke up."

"I'd love to see Hailey and Courtney.　 You can let them know I'm awake and invite them over."

"Thank you, Denise, I'll invite them.　 Take care." Momma left my room closing the door behind her.　

I did as she suggested and let go. Before long I was bathed, dressed and sitting at my dressing table putting on my makeup.　 I was amazed at how much those training wheels were capable of and if I needed to know something it just came to me.　 This was a very vital thing to have since none of my experience or knowledge was needed now except of course knowing those dance routines to perfection which got me into this situation in the first place.

I looked at my reflection in the mirror and it was apparent that I was a cheerleader by my appearance and what I wore and how I held myself.　 I had enough room for one of the routines and I danced through it without any problem at all with all the joy and excitement that I had danced with before the change.　 If anything, my dancing was even better since I better fit the mold of the people that the routines were designed in mind.　 I had heard Momma let Hailey and Courtney in while I was getting ready so I knew they were waiting for me so I was ready for my grand entrance.　

When I came in sight of the kitchen, I did a tumbling run and ended perched before them in a perfect one-point landing.

"Denise! Please save that for practice!" Momma tried to maintain the stern look she delivered the rebuke in but it soon dissolved into a giggle.　 "I'm so proud of you!　 I don't want you to be hurt so I would appreciate it if you restrained yourself till you can get to a safe place to practice."

"I will Momma."

"Wow Denise!　 No doubt about it! You are a cheerleader for sure! No one will be able to touch us in the competition with us together as a unit."

"Thank you Hailey.　　You girls do good work!　 Thank you too, Chelsea, for coming and for your part in it. I had no idea as much as we practiced together that you were into something like that."

"You are so welcome, Denise.　 It's not something that we talk a whole lot about due to the prejudice. You might have never known if Jenna's departure had been after the competition."　　

"So how goes the hacking, Hailey?　 Can Denise show up in public now?"

"Oh yeah! The fix is in!　 Dee Jay has transfer papers for a special boarding school in England where he will be doing special studies.　 That place is so exclusive that it is likely that no one will would be able to see him since they don't have a concert scheduled for the next month.　 Dee Jay's twin, Denise, who was with her father when he died in China was finally released from being a ward of the state there and has just arrived to live with her mother.　 Denise is registered at school and they are expecting her to begin classes tomorrow."

"What happens when Dee Jay comes back after the competition? "

"Denise will be transferred to the boarding school and Dee Jay will resume classes here."

"Denise, I don't want you stuck in a boarding school. Wouldn't it be okay if you just stayed here and Dee Jay never came back?"

"Chelsea, I don't have any control of what happens with the spell. Even if I became Dee Jay again, I would be your friend like before."

"Denise, she is still upset about Jenna leaving.　 With Dee Jay in the costume mostly, Chelsea thought of Dee Jay as a girlfriend.　 Now that you are here, she doesn't want to have to confront the reality that would happen if you changed back."

"Chelsea, let's make the most of this time.　 If we plan things right we can do lots of things to enjoy ourselves and make good memories."

"Thank you Denise.　　I'd like that very much.　 You know I liked you as Dee Jay but I feel like you are perfect as Denise."

"Being Denise feels pretty good to me right now too, Chelsea.　 In life sometimes you have to wait and see how things turn out."

"Mrs. Russell.　 We have the gym reserved for cheerleader practice.　 If Denise is up to it, could she come with us now and we could work on the routines."

"I believe that would be okay girls if Denise feels up to it.　 I have some things to tend to at school so I could give you girls a ride."

"I feel up to it Momma.　 Even with my talent, I'm not exactly like Jenna so practice will eliminate any rough edges we have before the competition."

"Thank you for the ride Mrs. Russell.　　I'll call Star and Kendra and have them meet us there."

"No problem, girls!　 I'm really glad to help!"　 Momma winked at me and I guessed that since I as Denise was now officially sorted that she was going to follow through on her plans to become a stage mother.　 This should be fun!

The ride to the school was uneventful and Momma let the three of us out by the gym before she parked in the visitor's parking. Inside Star and Kendra jumped out and yelled, "Surprise!"　 The gym was decorated in streamers with the team colors, green and　white.　 There was a big banner draped along the back wall declaring, 'Welcome Home Denise!'

As I tried to take this all in, I choked up with emotion and cried tears of joy.　 The four girls disappeared into the locker room for a while.　 Finally they emerged in their cheerleader uniforms.　 They all paraded out in formation and they carried between them a fifth cheerleader uniform which had my name embroidered on it! 　As they marched along they sung the school's original song when it was originally Lamur High School instead of Lamur Institute which changed when they added the Junior College classes.

"When the Green and the White are flowing over our dear LHS
Your name in fame we are shouting, As we cheer you to success.
As we march unfaltering forward, Your future great we hail,
May your glory never lessen and your courage never fail.

Lamur, Honor
Lamur, Glory
Lamur High School
Lamur High we praise your name

When the Green and the White are flowing over our dear LHS
Your name in fame we are shouting, As we cheer you to success.
As we march unfaltering forward, Your future great we hail,
May your glory never lessen and your courage never fail."

Together they presented to me, my uniform.　　I took it back to the locker room and as I put it on it seemed that I was born to wear that uniform.　 Hailey cut short the compliments and got us into the routines.　 I know it wasn't just me but it seemed like now we were ten times better executing the routines than when Jenna was part of the group.　 I believe it had something to do with everyone giving it their all in order to have a chance to participate at all that it came out in their performances as well.　 Two hours flew by quickly but by the end of it, we all knew that we were a lock to win the competition.　 The girls were surprised to have the Head Mistress of the School enter the gym accompanied by my mother.　　

"Denise, I am Headmistress Lacon! Welcome to Lamur Institute.　 Girls I have come to a decision following the disruption that occurred when Jenna left the cheerleading squad.　 You really need adult supervision but there is not enough money to pay a staff member for added duties.　 Fortunately , Mrs. Russell has volunteered to step into that capacity.　 She has a great background in cheerleading and will provide coaching from her experience." I'd like for you girls to welcome Mrs. Russell as the new Lamur Institute Cheerleading Coach!"

"Coach Russell, would you like to address your cheerleading squad?"

"Thank you, Headmistress Lacon! Ladies, I am proud to be your new coach. I feel a part of you already through Dee Jay and now through Denise. Our team has been in a state of flux with Jenna’s and Dee Jay’s departures. I’d like to extend my personal welcome to Chelsea and Denise as they join our squad. I’d like to thank our cheerleader captain, Hailey and continuing members, Kendra and Star for their outgoing service and spirit.

"Ladies, you all look so good in your uniforms. I include you in that too Chelsea since your mascot costume is your uniform. Chelsea, you are just as important to the team success of this team as any other member. The smiles and enthusiasm on your faces show me that even with all the changes, you are all cohesive as a unit. Each of you are committed to the success of this team.

"We have a competition to win in two weeks. I know that you will do the school proud."

"I’ll leave you ladies in Coach Russell’s capable hands. Good luck to us all!"

Headmistress Lacon left the Gym and we were alone before Momma spoke again.

"Hailey please put the squad through all the competition routines from beginning to end. Ladies show me what you've got!"

This is what I was waiting for in order to show that I was a real part of the team now. I did not disappoint myself or any of the others. We all shone as bright stars moving as one. I guess that having gone through so much to bring us to this point made us so cohesive. We executed each stunt with precision and grace. What we were doing was art, just like ballet, in the way that we all fluidly moved.

I was very proud of each one of the squad for the advances that each had made. I don’t know if we ever were this good before. Yet it took all that had come before to bring us to this day. Finally the competition routines were over and I returned from the dreamlike state that I was in. The euphoria was contagious and it showed on everyone’s face, even Momma’s face.

Momma called us all together. We all sat in a circle, cross-legged on the gym floor.

"Ladies, I am proud of each and every one of you. Your work today has been excellent! I want to congratulate all of you. My main task for the time leading up to the competition is for you to keep the skill and enthusiasm that you just showed in your performance today. I want you to show the competition judges what you’ve just showed to me and you will overwhelm them all!"

Hailey asked what was on all of our minds. "Coach, how will we do that?"

Momma asked, "You all want to do well in the competition, don’t you?"

I and the rest of the girls answered in unison, enthusiastically, "Yes, Coach!"

"I’m glad to hear that, ladies, because I’m starting some changes for the time leading up to the competition. After that we’ll adjust depending on the needs of the team.

"One! You will all have a strict curfew of 9:30 PM. You will need to get to bed earlier because you will have some new pre-school activities as a group to attend.

"Two! Until the competition, there will be no one on one dating, but group dating will be allowed and encouraged. I know this is an imposition, but we have so little time to iron out our group dynamics. You all know that even in the best conditions, boyfriends can be a problem. This is the one rule that will be gone after the competition, so take heart in that.

"Three! You all gained a new set of pre-school group activities. I was able to get some of the businesses in town to donate funds to pay for those in exchange for some promotional considerations after we win the competition. Each day at 7 a.m. you’ll have a different activity. The school is furnishing a van that I will be driving to pick you up at your homes and take you to the activities and to school afterward.

"Monday will be Ballet.

"Tuesday will be strength conditioning.

"Wednesday will be Jazz Dance.

"Thursday will be Gymnastics.

"Friday will be Ballroom Dancing.

"Saturday will be longer because you don’t have school and will be a special team building activity.

"Sunday will be Yoga and leave time for you to attend community services together if you wish.

"Four! We’ll cut the practice time after school because you will have the morning sessions for conditioning and we will be suspending learning any more routines 'til after the competition. This will give you all plenty of time to get your homework done before curfew and for some group activities that you yourselves can plan.　

"That’s all the rules though I reserve the right to add some more if we need them.

"I know that each of you is going to sacrifice and have your lives upset for this period. When you see yourselves in a place where you can do your best for the competition, I’m sure you will agree that it will be worth it.

"Are there any questions?"

There was a deafening silence from all of us as we tried to take in what my mother had just told us.

"Alright ladies, that is it for today. I’ve kept you all too long already. Remember curfew at 9:30 p.m. starting tonight. Team dismissed! Hailey, could you stay a moment?"

Hailey nodded and I looked questioningly at Momma to get a clue what I was expected to do since she was my ride. Hailey and I joined the others getting to our feet but Hailey stood opposite my Mother while the others headed for the door. I wasn’t sure what to do but my mother finally cleared that up by speaking.

"Denise, you can hear this too because it concerns you."

"Thanks Momma, I mean, Coach!"

"You meant Momma but that’s something that we both are going to have to get used to ourselves."

"Hailey, I wanted to explain to you that I’m not trying to usurp your role as Captain. I need you in that role, especially now. Ordinarily, what I just put in motion would be overkill and the girls would not stand for it and rebel. This was done especially for Denise with the change she has gone through to get her used to being a girl. We also need to integrate both Denise and Chelsea fully into the team so we can execute flawlessly even in stressful situations. With all this interaction, you all will become more cohesive and both Denise and Chelsea will move from being outsiders to an integral part of the team which is what we need them both to be now.

"There is one more surprise for Chelsea that I did not reveal to the team at the request of your mother, Hailey. In fact she’s probably talking to Chelsea about it now. Chelsea’s educational aptitude is such that she is not being challenged by the work she is doing now. Chelsea is getting an early promotion to High School Freshman. With some work this summer, she will be a sophomore next year too.

"Chelsea and Denise will have all their classes together. They will be able to help each other and Denise will have someone she trusts to help her through any issues she may encounter at school.

"I’m going to rely on both of you to not spill the beans inadvertently so Chelsea is properly surprised. So now I have let you in on the rest of it, what do you think, Hailey?"

"Coach I am glad you are on our side. I believe our chances have improved greatly with your guidance to do well. I feel like the rest of the girls will be ready for this because we help ourselves to our dream by helping Denise. I can’t believe that soon our dream that was thought impossible will come true! Thank you, Coach!"

"You are welcome Hailey! Go join your mother and sister. Denise and I are going home so I can give her some well deserved TLC after such a momentous first day out for her."

Hailey almost ran to the door but she always moved with such grace that it didn’t really seem like running. Momma and I walked briskly behind her. When we were through the door, we got to see a euphoric Chelsea get out and greet her sister with a big hug and kiss. Chelsea blurted out the news and she received another hug and kiss from a joyous Hailey. Chelsea called out to me with the news as well.

"I get to be a freshman and be in all of your classes. This is going to be so awesome. What are you going to wear tomorrow for our first day of school?"

"Congratulations Chelsea! I’m glad that you will be around to help me. We’ll have so much fun together. I’m not sure what to wear tomorrow. Maybe you could help me pick something out?"

"Mother is giving me the look so I guess I have to go. Call me and we’ll work something out!"

"I will Chelsea! Bye for now!"

Momma and I grinned at each other as soon as they had driven off. We got into the car and were on our way home before we relaxed enough to talk for real.

"You were awesome, Momma!"

"I’m glad that you enjoyed the performance. I have basically told the truth to them except they don’t know about me watching out after you. The extra is for your benefit but not in the way that they might expect."

"Thank you, Momma!"

"It won’t be all like this with everyone going along with everything that I say. After the competition I am going to have to be rougher on you than any of the others because I am your mother."

"Having you watching over me especially after the competition will be worth any added things you have to send my way. Because it is coming from you, I know that eventually it will be for my good so I’ll do it cheerfully."

"I’m glad you know me so well, Denise, and that this won’t come between us. I’d do anything for you, my sweet daughter!"

All I could do right then was to call out, "Oh Mother!" and roll my eyes at her with a great big smile. Later on when we arrived at home I would give her a big hug and kiss like I wanted to do right now.

We had a real mother/daughter moment when we got out of the car at our home since we shared that big hug and kiss that I had wanted to give her just a few moments before while we were still driving.

"Denise, Alicia should be up by now and I am sure she will have a lot of things that she would like to say to you. Please stay in the living room and I’ll go up and check on her and bring her down to visit with you."

"Sure, Momma!" I gave her a big smile and skipped into the living room and curled up my legs underneath me sitting on the middle of the couch and getting comfortable. I waited in the living room and soon Momma and another woman appeared and each took a seat on the couch on either side of me. The woman took my hands in hers and smiled a huge smile at me.

"You must be Denise and I’m Alicia! I’m so glad to meet you again! The last time that I saw you, you were a newborn before your parents moved away from us. The military had reassigned your father."

"Yes! I’m Denise! I’m very glad to meet you, Alicia. Thank you so much for helping us."

"It’s my pleasure, Denise. We should get down to business. I’m sure your mother told you that Rebecca was called away suddenly on another matter or she would be here helping in person. She was able to brief me on what she knew about what transpired in the circle and your mother has said she’s told you some of what Rebecca found out already. The amazing thing that I have been able to determine from helping Rebecca to recall things that she did not realize that she knew is that the circle you participated in is not really Wiccan at all. They go through some of the motions but their methodology and practice is not Wiccan, but instead is just a girl’s club. Hailey could be a Wiccan if guided because she has the aptitude. She has discernment of spirits and she can craft a spell. However, she has no real spiritual connection to the others in the club, which is what I am going to call their circle from now on. She can’t tap into the power. Our mystery girl is not a Wiccan either because she is able to break the ‘Do no harm’ rule at will and she is dangerous since she is able to tap into a source of great Majick and working through Hailey to craft the spell but she is able to incorporate destructive elements of her own into the spell as well. That she isn’t really Wiccan at all makes her extremely dangerous since she could do anything to achieve her own ends without regard to harming others."

"Wow, Alicia! That is a lot more that you were able to bring out of Rebecca from her memories of what happened. How is it that you are so skilled doing that?"

"It’s one of my gifts that I use regularly. My vocation which I am partially taking a leave from is the law. I help my clients tell me things that they don’t know that they know and that helps me help them. I’m doing some legal papers from here but I’m getting another partner in my firm to do the courtroom appearances 'til my part in helping you directly is over. Even when things get back to what passes for normal and I’m back west at home, I want you to be free to call me any time of the day or night and I will help. I can do a lot over the phone when it's just normal problems and not paranormal problems like we have right now."

"Thank you Alicia. You’re a good friend to my mother and I. Is the next part getting me to recall things I don’t realize that I know from my encounter with ‘the club’?"

"That’s right, Denise! We are going to have to try to determine the identities of those other members of ‘the club’ and find out who is the real malevolent power that tried to sabotage the spell that Hailey wove about you while you were in the center of them."

"Well, I know that of the seven that I saw five of them. Of those five, three I know who they are which were Rebecca, Hailey and Chelsea. The other two seemed that they were also the type of girls who were likely to be cheerleaders but they did not go to our high school. I had never met them before and we were not introduced. The remaining two of the seven had their backs to me as I passed between them stepping into the center of the circle and I did not have a chance to turn since things began as soon as I had taken my place in the center."

"Did you see anything that stands out of the portion of them that you did see?"

"One was a blonde and the other a brunette."

"That’s good, Denise. You got rather close to them passing between them. Did you notice any distinctive smells?"

"The blonde was wearing Shalimar and the brunette was wearing, White Diamonds."

"You are doing great Denise. As you were going past were there any small details that stand out as you reconsider them?"

"Yes the blonde had a tattoo on her shoulder and the brunette was wearing a special charm bracelet."

"Think intensely, Denise. Did you actually see their faces for a moment in your peripheral vision as you passed?"

"I did! I did!"

"Who were they?"

"The blonde girl was Kendra and the brunette was Star!"

"Excellent work Denise! We now know five of the seven girls who were present that night. And you can identify the other two by their faces. All we need to do is put a name with those faces. Your mother is helping with that task."

"Sweetie, getting to know those girls is part of the reason for the morning classes. I’ve bought what they will think are complimentary passes for some of our morning classes and given them to the cheerleader coaches in Vaughnville to distribute to their squads. In addition, I’m putting together a series of magazine articles about all the cheerleading squads in the area and they have given me team photographs to use in the articles. We’ll go over those photos with you later and that should identify our remaining girls since they have to be somewhere in the area to be able to slip away to attend those midnight meetings. Once we have established who they are we can find out through the girls on the squad what they know about them too."

"What about the mystery of the blank space in the circle that Rebecca filled?"

"Rebecca was told that Jenna was a part of ‘the club’ and that they had not had a chance to fill her spot since she had left. Denise be careful because since all the rest of the squad is in ‘the club’ they might offer to you the spot. You don’t have to be in the center to be affected by rogue spells like they are doing. Just being part of the circle would be enough to open yourself to another spell. Let us know if they approach you for that and we’ll try to find an out for you or some way to protect you."

"I will, Alicia and thanks. Unless I’m really a girl in spirit or I do something to keep me a girl, the next time for a full moon will be when I would be changing back to Dee Jay. Won’t that make the point moot?"

"If they were true Wiccan, since there isn’t a sacred day in this month. That would be true but our rogue sorceress isn’t drawing power the way Wiccan do so they could get together on any day. That they did your spell on the full moon was just fortunate timing so that the sorceress could remain undetected more easily."

"Can we change the subject for a second and tell me if this question is a bit too personal, Alicia."

"Ask away, Denise! My being a transwoman is part of the reason that I am here too. Is that what you wanted to talk about?"

"Alicia, your friends love you and would do what is best for you and from what I could tell from speaking to both you and Rebecca, making things natural for you is something they would be capable of and Rebecca said she had encountered the spell that Hailey used on me before."

"Simply put Denise, we did use that spell on another of our friends and I saw the result. There is a price to pay in order to gain that natural body and the price was too great for me. Remember, why Rebecca originally wanted to put you in touch with me before she was called away?"

"It was because Kendra, even though she had gone through the same spell, was not going to be very much help to me even though she would try. Why was that again?’

"It is because of the price that is exacted upon the person transformed in the name of doing no harm. Reality is reformed so that the person was never a transwoman. Their original identity is lost because in the new reality they were never a transwoman and always born ordinary. They may have memories as data of their old life but they are meaningless because they literally happened to another person who no longer existed. Kendra’s help that she could give is limited because things that happened to Ken literally did not happen to her."

"You didn’t go through the spell because you didn’t want to lose who you were. You would essentially die and be reborn a completely different person. And if I am female in spirit or I do something that forces me to remain female then that will happen to me. I will cease to exist."

"Not completely, Denise. The new you will be created from your essence but it will be a blank slate. You can take love from one life into another so it can be a worthwhile sacrifice to make. I saw this happen firsthand with one of my friends and an all encompassing love sustained her in her new life. I have not encountered such a love in my life yet to risk the spell which is why I am still a transwoman."

"Thank you for sharing that with me, Alicia. It helps me to understand the stakes and that this person who we are seeking really wants to obliterate me from this life. If it happens I know that I have your love Mother and perhaps that can help me bridge from this life to the next."

"You have my love Dee Jay now and forever and nothing can change that! It does not matter if you are Dexter Jacob or Denise Janice, I’ll love you forever. You are my world!"

Mom and I hugged and stayed together for what seemed like an eternity. I sobbed tears of joy for my Mother’s great love for me and mine for her and she did the same. Finally as we broke the hug, Alicia was there with tissues for both of us.

"I can see through your example, ladies, what real love is all about. I guess we are finished here except that if you are up to looking at those photos, Denise, we can have all the pieces to the puzzle available and we can see what we can do putting them together and finding more of the pieces.’

"I’m up for that! Bring on the pictures and I’ll pick out the other two girls!"

Momma composed herself and brought the pictures. More and more, I got the feeling that Momma was the friend who got caught pregnant after the spell and the result was me. I’m not ready to ask her about it yet and this was the perfect time to volunteer the information if Momma was ready. I guess I will only have my intuition for now. I went through each picture and finally I had the two girls identified and I shared my findings with Momma and Alicia."

"I know who the two girls are! One is identified as Veronica Fielder who is a junior and a cheerleader at Parson High School in nearby Vaughnville and Sabrina Wright, who is also a junior and a cheerleader at Townsend High School also in Vaughnville."

"That’s great work Denise! They both should have gotten passes from their coaches so we’ll be able to get to know them and I will find a way to slip them some additional passes 'til we find out what we need to know about them."

"We, Mother?"

"Of course I’ll be there, Sweetie. You don’t think I’ll just be waiting in the car for you girls. I’ll be in the classes too and I can add my observations to yours."

"I was just kidding, Momma! I’m glad to have you there and I want you there."

"I knew that, Denise. I’ll always be there for you when you need me."

"While you were looking at the photos, I was on the phone with my friend and our computer expert, Jennifer. The reason that we haven’t heard from her is that Star knows her stuff and she didn’t miss a trick with the hacking so you are completely covered in your new identity, Denise. However, the price that the military exacted on Rebecca for borrowing one of their fastest jets to get home was for her to use her influence with Jennifer to get her to look into some computer breaches of the base computers. It’s the kind of thing that she has to be on site for so Jennifer accepted a contract to look into things right here at Lamur AFB. She’s a single mother who is bringing her son, Richard with her. Richard is a junior and a star baseball player on his current team who will be attending Lamur Institute with you Denise. I know he’s an upperclassman but I would appreciate it if you would befriend him. He has had to move around a lot before Jennifer adopted him so in spite of his positives, he’s shy and has trouble meeting real friends at a new place. With your new status as a cheerleader, you could do a lot towards Richard being accepted and settling in here."

"You know, I need all the friends that I can get so of course I’ll be Richard’s friend. When is Richard’s first day at Lamur?"

"They are here and getting settled right now so I would expect Richard to be in school tomorrow."

"Speaking of school, look at the time, young lady. Don’t you have a curfew?"

"Yes Coach! I’ll go right up and get ready for bed. Could you come tuck me in like you did before I thought I was too big for it? I would really like it if you would now."

"Sure Denise. Go get ready for bed and I will be up in a little bit to tuck you in."

I got up and left the room. As I was going up the stairs to my room, I heard whispers coming from the living room as Momma and Alicia talked. I really like Alicia. She is really smart and has helped me a lot already. It was easy to get ready for bed. I just relaxed and went on automatic and everything went well. Soon I was in my nightie and ready for Momma to tuck me in.

I said my prayers and wondered if I had a guardian angel watching over me and that is why I heard what I did in the circle when I am certain now, what they were really singing was something Celtic and old.

Momma came in and gave me a kiss and tucked me in like when I was little. I felt so secure and comfortable that I knew that sleep would take me soon.

---

Part Four - Bearing Gifts

[Tuesday Day Three of the Enchantment]

I awoke to the sound of the alarm which I had set an hour earlier than what Momma had suggested. I had the challenge of the disappearing 'training wheels' which would happen just when any fair weather friends would be disappearing since the cheerleader competition would have been over. I decided that the best thing to do was to make sure I could get ready in the morning.

I was observant during the times when I had relaxed and let myself get ready on automatic. I could maintain control and do the same task and then relax to see what corrections that I would make to what I had done or if it was so hopeless that when I relaxed I would undo everything and do it over.

In the extra hour I was able to get ready myself without relying on the training wheels and I had a sense of satisfaction with that. I guessed that it came so easy for me with my ability to duplicate another’s performance. I’d have to work more on getting ready for other things besides school and I hoped that I would have a chance to cover most things before those ‘training wheels’ went away.

I would miss the ability to ask for information to myself mentally and have it pop into my head. However, the knowledge that I had gained already was able to be recalled by me just like any other thing that I had learned. When that ability went away, I hoped that I would know the basic things and anything else I could just ask Momma or Chelsea who were the two people in the world I knew I could count on since they had proved it by their past actions.

The last of the ‘training wheels’ going away could be something more upsetting to deal with. If I was actually a transwoman before then having a female body would seem natural and comforting now. However, if I were indeed totally male, then having a female body would cause all kinds of complications, making me essentially the equivalent to a transman, now. The one thing that I would not have even in the later case was a jarring kind of revelation of a new body since even without the training wheels, I was used to the body that I was wearing now even if it turned out to be wrong for me.

I was ready and relaxing when the time that the alarm would have gone off and Momma was knocking on my door to make sure I had not shut the alarm off and had gone back to sleep. When she found me awake and ready, she invited me down to the kitchen to help her make breakfast.

"Momma, where did all my male clothes go and where did all those female clothes that I have been wearing come from?"

"It was part of the spell to change your clothes to something appropriate for the new you and those displaced your male clothes. The same thing actually happened with your room as well. When the spell is over then either things will revert to the way they were or things will be in keeping with the new reality that will reset everything."

"It must be weird for you to be going through this again with me after it happened at college. You must have been able to compare notes with her since you were both pregnant at about the same time. I counted back and that must have been about the same time that you realized that you were pregnant with me and Daddy enlisted in the Air Force. It must have been a stressful time."

"I had you, Sweetheart, and that made all the stress go away for me. You were my little miracle then and my big miracle now and the other extraordinary things in my life pale in comparison to the miracle that you are, Denise."

I noticed that she did not say anything about the girl who got pregnant as a result of the spell that Rebecca’s circle accomplished. I wonder why that’s something that she won’t talk about voluntarily. I know she won’t lie to me if I ask her a direct question, but do I dare?

"Aww Momma, you have to say that!" I blushed with embarrassment over being made such a fuss over.

"That doesn’t make it any less true."

We set ourselves busy making a delicious breakfast. Then we took off our aprons and were busy again eating it. We had to make an earlier start leaving because Momma had to pick up all the girls in the Minivan to go to our session before school. Since it was Tuesday, after the teacher work day yesterday, then we were about to go to Bally’s and take a strength conditioning class

We picked up Kendra and Star who lived next door to each other and went to Hailey and Chelsea ’s house to pick them up. Hailey and Chelsea’s mother, Brittany, seemed as vivacious and giggly as her daughters as if she had lost ten years overnight. If I had not known that she was their mother, I might have mistook her for a twenty something not long out of college instead of the thirty-eight that she celebrated at her last birthday. I made a mental note to get Alicia to check on Brittany to find out what was going on with her. Was a Dryad going around giving kisses that left people ten years younger?

Brittany ’s appearance and musing on that took me out of the conversation that was playfully going on around with whispers and giggles galore. We pulled into Bally’s parking lot and off loaded. Then Momma led us into the class area and registered us. Of the other girls waiting for the class, I saw both Veronica and Sabrina from the circle. It looked like "The Club" was all here except Jenna who seemed to have escaped the influence of the malevolent power which wanted to ruin my life.

Part of the idea behind getting cheerleaders together for classes was to mix and get to know one another better. Fortunately for me, we were each wearing name tags. That made it easier for me to walk up to a total stranger and strike up a conversation. I wanted to get to know both Veronica and Sabrina better.

"Hi Veronica, I’m Denise Russell. I’m a freshman transfer student and a new cheerleader for Lamur Institute."

"Hi Denise, I’m glad to meet you. I would recognize a Lamur Institute girl right off. Don’t you just hate wearing those plaid skirts and awful shoes. I’m glad my high school doesn’t have a uniform. You do get to wear your cheerleader uniforms on game days though?"

"Yes, I’m very glad of that. I wish I could really make an impression by the way I dress. There is very little creativity that can be shown with these school uniforms."

"How are you adjusting to life here? I wondered about you right off since we tend to know everyone who is a cheerleader in the other schools, if not personally, at least by reputation."

"It’s been interesting to say the least. Haven’t we met before, say early Sunday morning?" I whispered to her so that no one else could hear. She replied in a whisper as well so we could talk freely.

"Oh, you are going by Denise now? You turned out very nicely. You are a good sport to help your friends since Jenna left. I was glad to help as part of the circle. I hope your team does well in the competition. We are working on something that I hope will make us the Regional representative in the competition next year."

"Thanks for the well wishes. Thanks for your part in helping me. How long have you been a Wiccan?"

"About three years ago, I joined when the circle first formed to help Kendra. I had no dealing with Wicca before then. I have no real interest in it but I felt compelled then to do it and now it has become a habit. I don’t really practice Wicca or anything like it. My family is Jewish and that is my real religion."

"How can you get into things like the circle without feeling it?"

"I do what I’ve been told and it’s worked out. Both you and Kendra are proof of that."

"I’m still getting used to this girl thing and I can’t talk about it with just anyone and there are some things that I am embarrassed to ask the girls I see everyday. Could we get together and talk sometime?"

"I’d like that Denise. Guess we should hush since the class is starting."

"Okay and thanks."

We did hush as the instructors started explaining the circuit training regime to us and the proper way to use the machines. Each of us got to start on a different machine. It was fun to work a while on one machine and then time was called and we would work again on something different.

We’d gotten through one cycle when a break was called. While we were on break, I got a chance to talk to Sabrina. It was weird because our conversation went word for word almost like when I was talking to Veronica. I learned that she did not consider herself Wiccan either and she was Jewish too. I got a similar agreement to get together with her to talk sometime. I found out from her that they both attended the same temple and she invited me to attend sometime and find out more about their religion. I was raised Christian so this would be a chance to broaden my horizons. I found it strange that both were compelled to join the circle around the time that Kendra was helped. Could majick be at work here?

Close to the end of the second circuit and the end of our time, I noticed a lady with a son speaking to Momma. They both stepped outside leaving the young man behind. He had a very athletic build to him like a baseball player. I checked out the size of his hands. You know what they say about the size of hands and the size of another part of a man’s body. There was something about him that got me all hot and bothered. Did I believe in love at first sight with a total stranger? Well I guess I had to believe in lust at first sight. I was kinda amazed but I decided to go with the flow. It was official, now in this female body, I was attracted to this young man.

He came over to me and I began to melt. I composed myself and gave him a big smile.

"Hi Denise, I’m Richard. Our mothers know each other so I thought I would introduce myself."

"Oh! Richard! My mother said that your mother took an assignment here and that you would be attending Lamur Institute now. From your reputation as an athlete, our Baseball team should be better now. I’m glad because its is always nicer to cheer when our team is winning."

"I’m looking forward to being able to help out the team. You know you could help me out right now, Denise."

"I’m willing to do anything to help."

"You are my kind of girl!" He took me in his arms forcefully and just as forcefully kissed me full on the mouth lingering there for an eternity before he released me. I was stunned not knowing what to do and before I could decide he took my arm and led me off into a closet and closed the door.

"Richard?" I gasped still not registering what had happened.

"Denise, I’m sorry that I did that without warning. My mother recruited me to help with your situation. I was given this talisman." He pulled out a triskeliion made of Celtic knotwork and very old by the look of it.

"This protects me from the compulsion of a love spell but I can tell when one is placed on me. Just before I kissed you, I was hit by a very powerful spell. The idea that my mother had was to play along with it with public displays of affection. If the person who cast this thought that it was working then they might not send someone against you who was not protected and might even rape you. I can pose as your new boyfriend too and you wouldn’t have to worry about from the normal advances of hormonal boys."

"That works for me Richard and thanks for your help. And Richard?"

"Yes Denise?"

"I can be a very good actress. Please, no more surprises!"

"Okay, I promise, Denise. Anything else?"

"How do you really feel about me? You do know that I have a spell on me and that until very recently, I was a boy myself."

"I never knew you as a boy so this is what matters. You are very attractive to me. I hope that we can be friends spell or no spell."

"I’d like that Richard. One can’t have too many friends and I need all I can get especially now. I guess we had better come out of the closet before they break the door down. Get ready for some real acting."

I mussed my clothes and makeup as if we had just had an intensive make out session. Richard opened the door and I made my grand entrance into the room.

"Richard, I believe you show real potential. After what I can teach you, you’ll never want another woman again. I guess you’ll do as my boyfriend for now."

Richard had a stunned look on his face and was spared further embarrassment by my mother leading him away outside. With the adults away, the other cheerleaders in the room voiced their approval.

Mother gathered us together after coming back in and told us," Girls we have to go back to school. Richard’s mother asked me to give him a ride to school and he has promised to behave so he’s waiting in the minivan for us. Now let’s go!"

I was first into the minivan and took the seat beside Richard with a big grin on my face as I was unaffected by the look that my Mother was giving me. Since she didn’t say anything, I figured that I was alright for now.

I had to remember nonetheless that Mother was driving and I wanted to get to school in one piece.　 Richard and I did nothing more than hold hands and talk in whispers while the Minivan was moving.　 And the Minivan was moving very quickly and we were at the school in record time.　

I believe that I did a pretty good acting job because all the girls were envious of me for landing the new hunk before any of them got a chance at him.　 However, as we offloaded at the school entrance I felt more and more alone as the juniors and seniors peeled off down other halls and left only Chelsea and me going to homeroom together.　 I was about to find out how really good an actress that I was because I had to convince them all that I was my own sister instead of the Dexter Jacob they all knew.　 I guess that I was about to find out a little of how people really felt about me.　 Chelsea promised to help if I painted myself into a corner but I hoped that I would not do anything that would lead anyone to believe that I was someone other than who I seemed to be.

I stopped and held the door open for Chelsea as we came to the homeroom door and quickly realized what I had done and scooted in quickly behind her as though we were both entering at the same time.　 I thought to myself, "Ladies first doesn't work anymore because I am a lady now." Having gotten my faux pas out of the way first thing allowed me to relax and get into the role of being Denise with everyone there. Chelsea and I found two seats in a row empty and I sat down in the desk behind Chelsea.

"Class, please welcome Chelsea Dooley and Denise Russell," Mr. Nestle said. He was not only our homeroom teacher, but he happened to be Kendra's father as well.　

Applause and cheers rang through the classroom as we received a warm welcome.　 When things had quieted down a bit, Mr. Nestle continued. "Chelsea was promoted from middle school early and will be finishing the term with us here.　 Denise had been living with her father overseas and has finally made her way home after her father was killed in action in Iraq.　 You may all remember her brother Dee Jay who was a student here but was offered the chance to finish the term in an exclusive English boarding school."　

It looked like our cover story was holding up okay.　 I guess it would have been easier if reality had changed but I did not want Dee Jay's existence to be removed completely since I was planning to go back to being Dee Jay in a month.　 I was not going to be doing anything to prevent that from occurring.　　 Alicia was watching over me to make sure I didn't run into some additional spell that would change the rules of the spell I was under now.　

If I did what I was supposed to do then the only way I would end up being Denise at the end of the month was if I was already Denise in my brain.　 If things had proceeded without this spell being put on me, I would know my own mind better and know the answer to whether I was really Denise or Dexter.　 I was totally devoted to the cause of winning the competition so I would find out in less than a month the answer to that burning question.　

Homeroom went okay and so did my morning classes. Chelsea and I enjoyed being together and I reveled in the new attention that I was getting from my classmates.　 I was getting envious looks from the girls that I had transferred in and landed a spot immediately on the cheerleading squad.　 I was getting lustful looks from the boys focused on my bust, butt or legs.　

However, the word soon spread that I was already claimed by the new star of the baseball team, which was destined to bring Lamur the pennant this year.　 The boys followed the code and they did not mess with another boy's girlfriend.　 I was safe for the moment.　 I wondered what might happen when that malevolent force found out that Richard and I were not building up to having sex.　 I hoped that I would be ready and that someone would be near to help out.　

Francine West, Freshman Class President and Julie Newman, Freshman Class Vice President flagged Chelsea and I down and we sat together at our table at lunch.　 The freshmen and seniors had the first lunch period and the sophomores and juniors had the second. Because of that there wasn't a cheerleader table and for lunch Hailey was eating with her senior friends.　

Even if Chelsea and I were both cheerleaders, being freshmen outweighed that.　 Since we had not gotten a better offer, Chelsea sat on the other side of Francine leaving a chair for me between her and Francine. I wondered why she chose to sit in line with them instead of opposite them but she told me later that she wanted to keep watch over the senior table. We managed to chat easily in spite of the arrangement.　They wanted to get to know us and I was curious on how they would react to me. They really had not seemed to notice me when I was Dexter.　

"Hi, Chelsea and Denise!　 Welcome to the Freshman class here! Thanks for accepting our invitation to eat lunch together." Francine greeted us with a smile.

I hoped that my performance was good as I spoke to Francine as though I did not know her. "It's my pleasure, Francine.　 My life has been so much up in the air recently and I am glad to be back home with Mother."

Julie spoke immediately, who I knew more from church where she was in my Sunday School class.　 "We were so sorry to hear about your dad's passing and we grieved with Dee Jay over it.　 It is so like our government to get something as simple as sending a daughter home to her mother and brother into a complicated thing."

Chelsea wanted to help and she interjected. "Part of her trouble was because of a silly old local law in Saudi Arabia, where her Daddy had been stationed and that they had made their home off base, that treats female children like property and as such they had annulled Denise's US citizenship for as long as the property that her father had owned was still in limbo.　 The American Embassy did its best but since Denise was caught at home and off base when her Daddy died, they would have had to kidnap her from the authorities and they thought Denise might be hurt or killed in the attempt.　 What the authorities really wanted was for the property to pass out of her father's estate and into the hands of one of their citizens.　 At that point when the property was sold, the odd law no longer applied and she became just another foreign national.　 Once they no longer considered Denise a citizen of their country, then her American citizenship took control again.　 They turned her over to the American embassy which got her on the next plane to the US before they changed their minds."

I was glad that Chelsea had mastered our complicated cover story and it was my time to agree and hope that answered their questions. "That's it mostly.　 I had a governess looking after me when Daddy was on duty or assignment away.　 The government provided a place for the two of us to stay together.　 They had a driver who was really a guard assigned to us also, since they wanted to be sure that I stayed off base or out of the embassy.　 It meant that I couldn't go to the American school and had to go to one of their schools."

Julie asked, "Dee Jay never spoke about you at all, what is up with that.　 Until you showed up here today I didn't know that Dee Jay had a sister?"

I was briefed on this part so I hoped that the cover story would hold even though I knew it was patently false.　 "Momma and Daddy had a falling out over his volunteering for a status in the military that made everything about his work classified.　 They split over it even though they did not get divorced.　 Each of them took one of us in the separation.　 Dee Jay seemed like he needed Momma and I was a Daddy's girl.　 After years of living apart, it became easier just to ignore that the other existed and most of the time we lived in a communications blackout so word on us just couldn't get through to the states.　 As much as I hate it that Daddy has died, at least this gives me a chance to know my mother.　 I'm disappointed that Dee Jay is gone but maybe it will give him a chance to get over things in his own way.　 Maybe when he gets over his issues then we can be a real family again."

Francine added, "Well we hope that Dee Jay will be doing well wherever he is now.　 I don't know but it seems to be off all the maps on the internet search that I did."

I asked, "What does it matter where he is if he's happy there?"

Francine blushed and said," I had a crush on your brother and hoped he would ask me out.　 He always was hanging around with the cheerleaders even though I have no clue why they would want to hang out with him.　 No offence to you both, you seem like nice down to earth girls and no offence to your sister either Chelsea.　 I guess that it's more of a status thing and that status is pretty difficult to compete with.　 The rumor mill says that Dee Jay was our secret mascot and now we have another one."

I tried not to let show what was going on in my mind show on my face.　 Francine is a really nice girl and to think that I missed out just by being obsessed with working with the cheerleaders that I missed being with a simply wonderful girl.　 Well I could spend time with her now but as long as I am a girl there will be no romance but one cannot have enough friends.　 "Sometimes boys can be so blind!　 I'm sorry that he missed out on being with you Francine.　 From what I could tell, Dee Jay had lots of friends but no girlfriend.　 And on the other thing, neither Chelsea or I were on the cheerleaders then so we have no way of knowing who was the secret mascot. As for now, we are both sworn to uphold the school's tradition of secrecy.　 Sorry girls."

Julie responded, "That's alright, girls.　 We wouldn't want you to break your promise.　 It's just fun to guess about since it is a mystery but knowing would take all the fun out of it."

Francine added, " I am so glad they have wised up and created a cheerleader alternate position as part of the squad and I know that you will do well Chelsea.　 We were so lucky that you came out of nowhere and were able to pick up all the routines flawlessly or we would have been in big trouble when Jenna got called away.　 With this being a military town, it's something that could happen again."

"I am so lucky to be with the squad," Chelsea said.　 "I think that part of it is because I am Hailey's sister and she knows what I am capable of and partly because being so bright and skipping grades I think that they want to be sure I keep busy and out of trouble."

Francine said, "We count our Freshman class so lucky to have you both aboard when we need you most.　 I hope that both of you are planning on coming to the Sadie Hawkins celebration dance that is being held this Saturday.　 It's our Freshman class project and we need all of our prominent freshmen to participate for it to be a success."

I spoke, "I don't know how to say this but my mother, the new coach, has made a rule against dating until after the competition.　 Is this a girls ask the guys dance?"

Francine answered, "Yes it is and we are encouraging the girls not to ask their regular boyfriends just to mix it up a little and make it more exciting for everyone."

Chelsea replied, "We'll ask her about it at practice today.　 Maybe if she made it mandatory for the cheerleaders not to ask anyone who we've dated before and for our dates to meet us and part at the dance when it is over then it would be like a group date that she said would be okay.　 That would make it even better because all of the cheerleaders and not just us two would want to attend."　　　

I added, "Momma is reasonable and if we explain it just that way then perhaps things will work out for all of us.　 If you want to meet us for lunch tomorrow, we'll let you know what she decided."

The bell rang warning us to get our plates put up because lunch period was just about over.　　 The four of us shared our gladness over getting to know each other a little better and promised to meet back for lunch regularly.　 Chelsea and I put our plates up and got a move on to our classes.　 In the back of my mind I considered that Richard and I had not had a date yet and that meant that it would be within the rules for me to ask him to the dance if Mother approved of the plan to turn it into a group date.　

The classes went quickly and finally we had our freshman girls' P.E. class.　 Chelsea and I were surprised to find in entering the girls locker room, Hailey was there waiting for us.　　

Hailey said, "There has been a change.　 Since we have a coach now, we get to have part of our practice during P.E. Coach Russell talked it over with the Headmistress and set it up for all of us.　 The rest of us found out last period when we were going to have P.E. and we got our last two period classes swapped.　 We all know that Coach Russell was only going to be with us a month but since the end of term was just a couple of added weeks, the company that she works for agreed to let her be off on leave until the end of the term.　 Coach Russell said for all of us to change into our workout uniforms instead of gym clothes."

I was glad to know I would have my mother's undivided attention for a little longer.　 It would not mean as much if reality changed at the end of the month if I were staying a girl. But if I returned to being a boy after this experience, I knew that even if it were a transformation that I wanted I would have a bit of adjusting to do and it would be good to have her close to me.　 I snapped out of my daydream and got busy changing as I saw Star and Kendra enter as well but they knew why they were there having had it explained to them last period.　

We all got dressed and Hailey led us out on the baseball field where Coach Nestle was putting the baseball team through its paces.　 They were having batting practice and Richard was at the plate hitting everything that was thrown to him over the fence in deep center field.　 Momma, I mean Coach was there waiting for us and we gathered around her to hear what she had to say.

"I'm glad to have you all with me for PE for the rest of the term.　 I believe that the added time will be very useful to get ready for the competition.　 After the competition, we might have all the practice time we need just in the P.E. class.　 We'll see if we can do that as a reward for all the hard work that we are going to be doing in the time we have left.　

"Speaking of rewards, as a reward for all the hard work that I am going to put you all through, I believe with just a restriction or two we can turn the Sadie Hawkins Celebration Dance that the Freshman Class is sponsoring into a group date on Saturday.　 If you all agree to the restrictions then we will put it on our schedule.

"Restriction number one is that you meet your dates at the dance and say goodbye to them at the dance and that your parents provide your transportation to and from the dance.

"Restriction number two is that since you girls will be asking your dates out, that it cannot be a person that either you or any of the present cheerleaders have been on a date with.　 And I expect that you girls will be polite and spend 75% of your time at the dance with the person who you asked.　 That other 25% can be with your regular boyfriends or whoever.　 I hope that your boyfriends will come and I hope that they will spend that same 75% with their dates, but since they are not under my jurisdiction, I can't dictate that they not be jerks. I hope you will use your influence so that they won't be in this case.

"If you all agree then it will be a group date and if not then it will be off limits for all of you even if you have agreed to the restrictions.　 All in favor of the restrictions, raise your hand."

All of our hands were enthusiastically raised.　 I was so glad because if even a minority of the school followed our example, then the dance would be a huge success.　 I would be curious to find out who Francine's choice would be with Dee Jay out of the picture.　 I wondered what would have happened if the dance had occurred before Jenna had left.

Momma, I mean Coach, continued. "I am so glad that you all have agreed to the conditions so we will make this a group date on Saturday.　 This also lets me announce our first team building activity which will precede the dance on Saturday.　 I've arranged with a local salon for us to have it all to ourselves with their staff for three hours on Saturday before the dance.　 You will all be getting ready for the dance, but the catch is that you yourself will have no say in what is done to you. However, you will have a say in what is done to each of your teammates.　 I will have the right to veto any plan that is too radical so keep that in mind when you make your plans.　 You have between now and then to come up with what you feel will do best for each of your teammates to bring out their beauty in a way that they will really shine bright at the dance."

That started wheels turning in each of our heads as we thought of things that would be nice but was something that had not been tried by our friends.

"Lastly, we are out on the baseball field because our baseball team has several home games before the competition and we will be cheering at those games.　 I wanted us to have a chance to go over our game cheers again because rumor has it that with the team's new addition that they may make it to the state championship this year.　　Hailey, go put the girls through their paces.　 Chelsea, join the other girls in line."

We all took the field including Chelsea who was to join us as a fifth cheerleader instead of doing the mascot routines.　 Our field cheers could add a fifth member easily.　　 Momma had her doing that to protect her secret with her being without her costume.　 As it was with me, she was our backup cheerleader so it was good for her to practice our routines too.

"You gotta Go to Fight!

You gotta Fight to Win!

You gotta Go, Fight, Win!　

You gotta Go to Fight!

You gotta Fight to Win!

You gotta Go, Fight, Win!　

Go!"

As we went through our paces, the baseball team on the field was going through a simulated game and Richard was pitching.　 I noticed something curious going on as the shortstop or second baseman would flash the sign to the batter that indicated the pitch that Richard was going to throw.　 Even with that advantage to the batter knowing what pitch that he was going to throw, Richard was pitching a no hitter against the split squad and Richard was pitching for the second string.　 Richard hit a homerun each time he got up to bat and his teammates had managed to put people on base before each one so the second string was rolling over the first string handily.　

I could have watched the baseball team practice, that is watched Richard, all afternoon long but Coach blew the whistle and sent us in.　 School was over and the gym was now ours exclusively.　 Chelsea was able to change into her mascot outfit and we began to run through all the routines again for the competition.　 Hailey put us through our paces as Coach watched and made notes on our progress.　

I was in the zone and was flowing with the rest of the girls through the routines.　 When the whistle blew for us to stop, it was more of an interruption than a relief.　 Coach told us all that she was proud of the way we worked today and sent us off to the showers.　 As I showered, I wondered what I was about to hear from Momma about Richard and I.　 I said my goodbyes to Chelsea and Hailey as Mrs. Dooley came to pick them up.　 I was wondering at how young she appeared, as she seemed to be younger than when I last saw her.　　

Momma waited to escort me to the minivan until all the rest of the parents had taken their children home.　 I had noticed that the baseball practice had broken up at about the same time ours had since Coach Nestle had taken Kendra home.　

"Lucy, you've got some splaining to do!" Momma began in a not too good imitation of Ricky Ricardo from 'I Love Lucy.'

"Momma, it wasn't my fault, I didn't know..."

"That's okay Sweetheart.　 I had a very long talk with Jennifer about this morning.　 I had no idea that she had a son three years before you were born.　 I wonder when she had time for it.　 Sometimes you don't know someone as well as you believe.　 Anyway, she told me that Rebecca had asked Richard to keep an eye on you and gave him some protection in case the malevolent force that had it in for you in the circle wanted to make sure that you got pregnant. I feel safe with you both to be together.　 It might be a good idea for you to ask him to the dance so he can help keep you out of trouble.　 The four of us are going to have dinner together tonight and talk over things."

"Momma, I am so glad you understand.　 After that look that you gave me, I thought that I was going to be in real trouble."

"That was acting, after the performance Richard gave there was no way that a parent would react in any other way.　 I could tell Richard took you by surprise since even you are not that good an actress.　 Why did Richard introduce himself in that manner?"

"Oh Momma, Richard knew the force was pulling on him to deflower me so he put on a show for the benefit of the one who we are looking for.　 The entire circle was gathered in that room so it could still be any one of them except Rebecca of course."

"That explains it.　 Richard is very quick thinking and mature for a boy his age.　 Well, dinner will allow us all to be on the same page and see how we plan to deal with this from this point."

"I'll be very glad to see Richard again.　 There is something about him that I can't put my finger on that makes him very welcome to be around." I smiled and added, "And I will ask him to the dance both at dinner and then at school so it will be known for sure that we are a couple."

"I'm glad Sweetie that you like Richard since it looks like you will be spending a lot of time with him over the next few days."

We both got ready for dinner and Momma drove us to the restaurant where Richard's mother and Richard were meeting us.　

Jennifer, Richard's Mother seemed very apologetic when she spoke to Momma and I, "I am so sorry this happened this way without us being able to get on the same page.　 It was more about introducing you both to Richard as quickly as possible than needing Richard to ride with you all to school.　 I had no way of knowing that something would happen that quickly against Denise.　 I'm glad it was Richard that was the subject of the first spell since it hasn't affected him as intended."

Momma wanted to calm her. "You could not have known that the fiend would strike that quickly and I am so glad it was our decoy who got hit with the first one since that buys us some time to figure out who it is that is doing this and how to deal with them."

"Rebecca did send some more gifts besides the trinket that Richard is wearing.　 She sent seven crystals which turn from white to black in the presence of someone in the influence of evil.　 She also sent seven necklaces to use to break the hold that the evil one has on any of the circle that may be affected."

"How do you suggest they be used?" Mother asked

"Denise should take the crystals and expose them to one of the girls when none of the rest of them are around and preferably when she is alone with them so we can be absolutely sure that it is the girl tested that turned the stone.　 She should keep them in the box that they are in now since that box keeps them from being affected while the box is closed.　 If for some chance one of them are turned without knowing who did it, the crystal can be returned to being white by going under Denise's pillow before she goes to sleep and then returning it to the box when she wakes in the morning.　 Here is the box, Denise."　

"Thank you," I said as I took the box and placed it in my bag.　

"Denise, I will keep the necklaces safe while you find out how many, if any, are affected.　 If there is only one, then we will have determined who the culprit is already.　　 When we know, we should meet again and decide on the order and the best way for the necklaces to be used.　 Until we find out who it is, you and Richard should make out when ever you get the chance if observed by anyone from your school so that Richard's cover isn't blown and someone else is set against you."

I grinned at Richard and said," That will be a tough acting job but I guess I can bring myself to do that.　 Richard, would you like to go to the dance with me?"　

"I would be very honored to go with you, Denise. I accept"

"Great! I'd like for you to manage to meet me long enough at my lunch time so I can invite you in front of the whole freshman class."

"I could manage anything for you, Denise.　 I'll be there," Richard said confidently. Spell or no spell, I believed him. This could be fun.　 There was some other small talk with Momma and Jennifer catching up but nothing eventful.　 Soon I was home doing my homework and after that Momma tucked me into bed.

---

Part Five - Careful What You Wish

[Wednesday Day Four of the Enchantment]

Wednesday morning rolled around without the drama that the day before had been. Mom had laid out for me the jazz class uniform which consisted of a tube top and hot pants along with a cover up and tap shoes in a Maryjane style.　 I got to bring my cheerleader uniform with me to change into afterward since it was a game day. It was a far different world to be a cheerleader rather than Amy since I received all the popularity and attention of a cheerleader all the time now.　　 Much more with being the new girl on the block too!

Mom repeated her car pool duties and soon all of the cheerleaders were in the van.　 Chelsea made a point of sitting by me on the back seat. It was a perfect chance so I got one of the test crystals out to place it in contact with her while I distracted her.

"Chelsea what do you think of my lip gloss? Do my lips seem more kissable?"

"Girlfriend you have the most kissable lips around!"

She surprised me by giving me a kiss right on the lips.　 I turned my face up and relaxed into it and the whole thing was rather enjoyable.　 Chelsea sure could kiss!

"Is my lip gloss too twinkie?"

"Your lip gloss is perfect.　 I love cherry!"

"Denise, you are becoming such a girl!"

"Of course I am!　 Like I said before, you guys do good work and I'm enjoying who I am."

"I'm glad girlfriend!　 There are so many things that I want to share with you now.　 Girls have all sorts of possibilities for so much closer friendships.　 We can share everything."

"Except Richard! He's mine!"

"Of course girlfriend! No girl will come between you and your boy."

"I hope so."

"Now that you are adjusted, I want to start sharing things girl to girl with you!"

"I'm down with that.　 We'll squeeze in what we can before the competition and much more after that when all the pressure is off and we have lots more free time."

"You go girl!"

I had managed to get the crystal in contact with her while she stole that kiss from me.　　I didn't mean to be quite that flirty but it got the job done.　 I sneaked a look while Chelsea who was sitting closest to the aisle was turned the other way getting ready to exit the bus.　 The crystal had turned completely black.　 The Evil had touched her!　 I still had to wait on the rest of the tests because then we'd know just how many were affected.　 It could be a minority or the entire circle might be under the Evil's influence.　

We girls had our Jazz dance lesson at one of the premier dance studios in the area.　 We learned that we would be getting our ballet and ballroom dance classes there too.　 We met other cheerleaders from the high schools around for the class which was fun.　 However, since we already knew who the two girls were then meeting the others were not as important.　

We quickly went from the basics of tap moves into a much more advanced choreography since a lot of what cheerleaders do is derived from Jazz Dance without the tap moves.　

I found myself at one point as pivot girl between Kendra and Star.　 We started out with me seeming to throw Kendra but it was all her leaping ability.　　 Still it gave me the chance to put my hands on her waist and I concealed the crystal in my hand as I held her.　 We took a break before practicing the throw the other way with Star. I looked at the crystal and it was totally black like Chelsea's had been. I had switched out the crystal and stopped at the water fountain when Sabrina came over.　

"Hey, Denise! I'm Sabrina.　 You may not remember me but we met Saturday night late?"

"Oh! Yeah! I didn't get introduced but I remember seeing you there.　 Thanks so much for what you did for me.　 I can never repay it."

"Girls do for each other!　 We're sisters now.　 And I wanted to see if you could help me?"

"Sure!"

"If you weren't going to eat, I hoped you might go with me to a practice room and you throw me like you threw Kendra.　 My partner did not get it and it made something which should be beautiful be so awkward.　　I don't want to hurt her feelings but I do want to learn this."

"Sure Sabrina, I'll be glad to help.　 Do you know your way around here?"

"Yeah.　 I take some classes here."

"Cool!"

I followed her to a meeting room and threw her like I did Kendra and it came out just as beautiful and graceful with Sabrina.　 She was a natural but it helped having someone who knew how to do it to get her timing right. Like before I palmed the crystal as I held her waist the first time.

"Thanks, Denise!　 Maybe I'll see you in the circle again?　 We've yet to come up with a replacement for Jenna and you would be perfect."

"We'll see.　 If not there, certainly in the morning practices and at games."

"You go girlfriend! Later!"

She went off to get back with her cheerleading squad and I went over to change out the crystal.　 Sabrina's crystal was black too!　 I got another one to see if I could check Star.

We got back to the practice and just like the other two I managed to palm the crystal when I held Star by the waist.　　 When I was able to swap it out, I discovered that it had turned black like the others.　

The practice was very rewarding but all too soon we had changed out of the dance outfits and into our school clothes which in my case was my cheerleader outfit. The call came for us to load up on the mini van. At the same time, the other cheerleaders were out getting into their rides as well.　 I don't know who started it but one van had their cheerleaders singing their Alma Mater as they pulled out of the parking lot with the windows down and the rest of the quads joined in with theirs.　 All the way to school the Lamur Institute Alma Mater was sung as sweetly and sincerely as I had ever heard it from all of us.

Because the pressure was off on meeting the rest of the girls in "The Club", I got to pay attention to my new school schedule instead of floating by it like I did yesterday.　 Like Dee Jay, I had Coach Charles Nestle for homeroom.　 Everyone in homeroom was the same except I took Dee Jay’s place and we had Chelsea added as well.　

I saw Dr Jordan come to the door and the coach motion her in for a chat.　 At the end of their short conversation, I was surprised that it was about me.

"Denise Russell, please go with Dr Jordan. She has some school business to discuss with you."

"Coming , Sir and Ma’am."

I gathered my books and clutched them to my chest hugging them as I followed Dr Jordan out of the classroom.　 I wondered if I had already blown my cover.　 There was no reason that I knew of that Dr Jordan would have any cause to interact with me but she did have unfinished business with Dee Jay.　　I wonder if the undisclosed boarding academy in England and the people behind the mysterious scholarship were one and the same. She led me to a conference room and　we sat down across from each other.

"Denise, I want to help you in the best way that I can. However you must be completely honest with me.　 To aid in that I will tell you about things that you may not know in the hope that it will encourage your participation."

"Of course, Dr Jordan.　 I’m glad that you wish to help me."

"Please call me Ariel.　　 According to the records, you missed out getting to visit with your brother Dee Jay as he left and you arrived.　 The meeting that was held with him on behalf of the consortium I represent was prepared to offer a scholarship tentative on further testing, to him was on the Friday at school before his departure.　 He left on Saturday night/early Sunday morning, while you arrived in town on midday Sunday.　 Presumably with everything that has been going on, you haven’t had much chance to learn second hand things about Dee Jay from your mother. Is this correct so far?"

I decided to answer as close to the truth as I could while maintaining the illusion that Dee Jay and I were not one and the same.

"Ariel, I understand that Dee Jay left at midnight and I arrived soon after.　　However, I was exhausted and required the next 36 hours to rest before I actually was able to function normally.　 Dee Jay left before I arrived so we didn't have a chance to talk."

"At the meeting, both Dee Jay and Francine West were informed of their preliminary qualification for the scholarship and alerted that the added testing would be administered by me sometime this week. Imagine the consortium’s surprise to find that a computer trail linking Dee Jay with one of the consortium’s institutions was where Dee Jay was supposed to have gone which would not have been possible except by hacking their systems and planting that information.　 They assure me that even though the computer trail is sufficient to stand up, offline checking confirms that your brother did not in fact make it to the school.　　Instead of purging the false computer trail, steps have been taken to bolster the trail adding offline documentation that the trip did take place and that Dee Jay is actually in residence at the facility.　 It seems that someone　 went to a great deal of trouble to explain Dee Jay’s absence and since the consortium is still interested in Dee Jay as a prospective scholarship recipient, we’d like to know his whereabouts if you know them before we take other action.　　If he is in trouble, we have certain assets that can be tasked to locate and retrieve him."

"Ariel, it’s not like that.　　I’m so sorry that the consortium was involved by us in our cover up.　 Dee Jay does not exist right now. I was created from his essence for a month or, more accurately, one cycle of the moon.　 At the end of which time, Dee Jay will reappear and I will disappear, if all goes according to plan."

"I believe you, Denise.　 Thank you for being honest with me.　　I hope that you will forgive me but an app on my phone has both recorded you and performed voice stress analysis on it and assures me that you are telling the truth however impossible it seems.　 The consortium expected that a substitution was in place since there was a goof in your records that included a duplication of Dee Jay’s test results in your name which according to your back story, you could not have taken.　 The consortium has taken the liberty of expunging anything from your records that you could not have gotten with your back story and similarly strengthen the computer trail adding offline elements when possible. Actually this duality strengthens the consortium’s interest in you, whoever you turn out to be.　 If indeed you need the month to finish whatever it is that you are involved in, the consortium would be willing to defer future consideration.　 No doubt this by its very nature will be life changing for you, so we would have to evaluate who to offer the chance to share the scholarship since it is customary for them to be awarded in pairs."

"What about Francine?"

"If it had been an actual Dee Jay and not a computer mirage that was living at the consortium facility, then it is likely that Francine would have been the one to accompany him.　 However, in this case it will be easier to construct another computer phantom personality to have awarded the scholarship in Francine’s place and she will be advised of that outcome without subjecting her to further testing at this time.　 We’d like to have another chance to offer the scholarship when this project concludes and at that time Francine will be considered if she meets the parameters then.　　In any case, the consortium is interested in Francine’s well being and she will receive a collegiate scholarship for her further education. They feel that is the least they can do since that is a component in the more inclusive offer of scholarship they might have offered before or might still offer."

"Ariel, please thank the consortium for me on behalf of Francine.　 I know she’ll do well with the chance to get a good education. I’m sorry that　Dee Jay’s disappearance at this phase of the consultation　means that they can’t be transparent."

"I will.　　Based on what you have told me, the consortium will keep both yours and Dee Jay’s cover stories intact as well as take care of Francine for possible later consideration afterward.　 It is definitely within their mission statement to do so. Both, you and Fran are still potential scholarship candidates and it pleases them to look out for your best interest.　 I won’t ask you to disclose any more now but you might ask the secondary computer expert who examined the initial hacker’s work to look at the results again.　　 The secondary expert should be able to verify what the consortium has done on your behalf.　 Hopefully with that assurance of their good will, it will merit your trust."

"I’ll do that. Thank you for everything, Ariel."

"With your identity reestablished, the consortium considers binding on you what Dee Jay signed.　 Fran will be informed that you are a potential candidate but that the added testing will need to be delayed for a month so she has the same freedom to discuss in the manner that was outlined with you as she did with Dee Jay.　 Now we’d both better be getting to class before the student assistant I left the class with gets nervous that she might be expected to teach my lesson plan."

We walked together to my first period class, Algebra, which was the same as I had as Dee Jay.　 The composition of the class was unchanged.　 Chelsea had a less advanced Algebra class due to her having to cope with the late year promotion and catching up.　 As bright as she was, she’d be back in the advanced classes when she got to start her sophomore year from the beginning.　

That was okay because Francine was in there and I arranged for my seat to be by hers and Julie’s.　 The girl who sat where I sit in class now, had a crush on one of the guys that Dee Jay’s empty seat was close to so I didn’t have to sit in Dee Jay’s old desk. I had intended to snag Fran either before or after class today to chat but I was with Ariel before and then Ariel asked her to wait after class afterward so I waved to her and went on.　 Instead I went out into the courtyard and pulled my cell phone out and activated an app which auto dialed Jennifer.

"Hi Jennifer, this is Denise.　　Did I get that app you put on my phone going correctly?"

"Denise, every thing is secure here.　　I hope you aren’t where you can be overheard."

"I’m okay.　 I just talked with Dr Ariel Jordan on behalf of the consortium that was in the process of qualifying Dee Jay for that scholarship.　　 It was to one of their facilities that Dee Jay is right now.　 They suggest that you recheck the arrangements to discover that Star didn’t do as good a job as she could have and what you were satisfied with is their work."

"I understand, I’ll get right on that.　 With the clue about the source, I should be able to verify.　 What are their intentions?"

"They feel it is their duty to protect Dee Jay and they want to have another chance to complete the vetting after the month is over."

"I trusted too much the last time and I missed their work.　 It will be this evening before I have anything for you. Okay?"

"Sure, Jennifer!　 Thanks so much for your help! Bye!"

"Bye Denise."

Second period class was the same also as Dee Jay’s old schedule. I began to get comfortable in spite of the changes.　 I had Biology with Mrs. Judy Turner.　 This was an advanced class also so Chelsea wasn’t in it with me.　 I hadn’t noticed her in the class before but Julie was in the class and I arranged with the same girl to swap seats so that Julie and I were sitting together.　 Julie remembered me in the class yesterday so we walked out together.

"How do you like it at Lamur Institute so far?"

"I really am enjoying meeting the people here and the teachers seem okay too.　 I still think that I may still be getting settled at the end of the term but it’s been easy to join in.　 Next year in the fall, I should really be comfortable."

"I’m glad that you feel welcome.　 I know that the girls are counting their blessings that you are so talented that you could pick up the routines just by seeing them in the video.　 We thought the cheerleading team was going to have to withdraw from the competition."

"I can’t take credit for having the talent but I am glad that I get to use it for a good cause.　 It’s a shame that Jenna had to be called away so suddenly."

"Well, here we are at class.　 Let’s see if we can make another deal so you can sit by me in Women’s History."

"That would be great!"

Just when I thought I had it made, third period came and threw me for a loop.　　 Not only was that class different but I had different classes for the rest of the day! Like yesterday, Chelsea met me in the hall going to third period class and it turned out that we had the rest of our classes together.　 Instead of US History, I had Women’s History.　 Denise, by her old school's records, had been enrolled in Women’s History so they scheduled me for it here too.　 It wasn’t an advanced class so Chelsea was in it with me.　 Julie was in it with us as well.　 Things were relaxed in there so that there were no assigned seats and no boys to worry about so the girls cooperated to let Chelsea and I sit near Julie.

This was a much different class since it was all female students, not by restriction but most boys were unsure what Women’s History involved so they went ahead and took US History.　 We girls would all have to take it too before graduation but taking this now just delayed the inevitable.　　 Mrs. Tara Fielder who taught the class was a real feminist.　 The way that she taught the class was vital since she taught with a passion for the subject that was contagious.　 I found myself hooked and vowed to quickly read the chapters that were already covered so I could catch up with the rest of the class.

Even though I paid attention in class I could not help thinking a little about lunch and letting everyone know that Richard is my boyfriend.　After class Chelsea, Julie and I walked to the cafeteria where we were met by Francine on the way.　 Chelsea and I were again sitting with Francine and Julie.　

Once we were settled Julie couldn't wait anymore and asked. "So, what gives? We’ve discussed everything else but the dance!"

Chelsea said, "The Coach read my mind and proposed the same restrictions without us saying anything.　 The whole squad agreed and so they are all coming but not with their boyfriends.　　 Of course the boyfriends will be there to claim what time they can with their girlfriends.　 It will be a big social event and should be lots of fun!"

Francine breathed a sigh of relief. "Denise, I am so glad that your mother came through for us.　 So, who are you going to ask? Enquiring minds want to know."　

"Well, Richard and I have not dated so technically we are not a couple yet.　 I'm going to ask him as soon as I see him today before another girl beats me to it."

Julie pointed out Richard walking into the cafeteria and coming straight for us. "Don't look now but here he comes!"

Richard came right over to me and handed me a note and said to me, "The Headmistress asked me to get this note to you from Coach Russell.　 How are you Denise?"

I cleared my throat and told him, "Very well, Richard.　 Thank you for bringing me the note.　 Richard, would you like to be my date for the dance this Saturday?"　　

In front of my friends and the entire freshman class, Richard said, "I would be very honored to go with you, Denise. I accept."

I wanted to give him a hug and kiss but did not want to be sent to the office for a PDA (public display of affection) so instead I tried to let my demeanor show how pleased that I was with Richard, "I am very glad, Richard.　 I will count the hours 'til then."

"As will I!" Richard quickly turned and left.　 I was able to open the note and read the message:

"Congratulations Denise.　 When Richard asked me to send the note to you, I felt it was the least that I could do.　 You have to cheer for the baseball game against Parson HS after school so you might be ready to test Veronica.　 Love,　Coach."　　 I did not share the message since none of my friends could know about the conspiracy lest the word got out that Richard and I were not real and some other boy suddenly might get infatuated with me.

Instead of having English with Dr Richards like before, I had Drama with Mrs. Gloria Wright.　　Fran was in the English class along with Julie, so Chelsea and I parted company from them　when we turned toward class.　 We had a few boys in it but there was mostly girls.

Chelsea and I met Julie and Fran on the way to the Theater.　　I asked Fran if she’d like to go to the restroom.　 Julie and Chelsea said that they would go ahead and save us seats in the theater.　

"Fran, did Ariel tell you about the Scholarship?"

"She told me that there was a girl overseas that qualified.　　They like to start new students in pairs.　　Since Dee Jay was closest to qualifying, they put through Dee Jay’s testing on the spot and he got the other slot.　 They told me that I’m in the running and so are you girlfriend! Congratulations!　 They have some snag so that they won’t be ready to complete the testing for a month but they said that I already qualified for a collegiate scholarship.　　Going to that prestigious boarding academy would be fun. I hope that I make it so that I get another chance at being Dee Jay’s girlfriend."

"I’m glad for both of us!　 I really hope that you two get together if that’s what you both want."

"Thanks Denise.　 Guess we had better get to class.　　We don’t want to be late for the Headmistress’s lecture!"

"Let’s go!"　

Instead of having Study Hall next, I had Deportment.　 Deportment was a required course for girls only at Lamur Institute.　 It was taught only one period a day by Headmistress Lacon.　　We met in the theater usually for our lecture while I found out that the practical portion of class was held at various places depending on what the subject matter was going to be.　 Sometimes we would be doing Drama in the Theater so that made it nice for those times.　 I had Francine, Julie and Chelsea in that one with me since all the girls of the freshman class seemed to be in there.　　It was the makings of a very good time.　

My phone vibrated just as I was out in the hallway outside the theater.　 I looked and it was Jennifer calling me back.

"Hi Denise.　　 The work that was excellent that I couldn’t improve on was theirs!　 They were so fast cleaning up the mess that Star made that I didn’t have a clue that Star was so sloppy.　 She knows the mechanics of hacking but hasn’t got a clue about covering her tracks.　　 She’s just not experienced on the different formats either so everything comes out pristine new instead of aged."

"So we can trust them?"

"Absolutely! I checked back and not only did they trace Dee Jay to the Academy solid electronically and offline, but they cleaned up your history so that it’s as solid as anyone’s life. If they want the full story, go ahead and give it to them.　 To have a resource like them around is worth the exposure.　 They’ve been cool about this so far and we shouldn’t tick them off by obfuscating.　 If this all works out well then you’ll have more data to base accepting their offer on after we finish with our challenge."　

"Good deal!　 I’ll make contact and spill it ASAP.　 Thanks Jennifer! Bye."

"Bye."

I had swung around outside to take the call taking a short cut that got me to the gym before Chelsea but not before some of the rest of the cheerleaders arrived.　 I should have noted yesterday my relief from not having drown proofing as the PE required for all boys.　 A Girl’s PE was much better but I got to go right into the cheerleading PE class yesterday so it was all good. We didn't practice at the baseball field today during PE.　

It seems that Coach Nestle felt that we were too much of a distraction and he wanted them to focus prior to the game.　 Instead, we were able to cheer in the gym as the Freshman class PE was out at the volleyball courts.　 We got in a good practice for the competition.

The last thing that we practiced was the team's fight song.　 The student body loved to sing the fight song which was based on the words and music to "The Army Goes Rolling Along."

"First to fight for the right,
Full of Lamur Institute's might,
ARMYdillos Go Rolling Along!
Proud of all we have done,
Fighting 'til the battle’s won,
ARMYdillos Go Rolling Along.

Then it’s hi! hi! hey!
ARMYdillos on our way
Count off the cadence loud and strong; (two! three!)
For where’er we go,
You will always know
ARMYdillos　 GO ROLLING ALONG! (keep it rolling!)
ARMYdillos GO ROLLING ALONG!
ARMYdillos!!! GO ROLLING!!! ALONG!!!!"

"YEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!"

We loved to jump up and kick out and wave our pom poms after the fight song was over.　 We all got caught up in the emotion of it.　　We were fired up!　 Now we needed to get the crowd fired up so that our team would win!

We all walked out of the gym together with the intention of going over with Mom in the van to get some fast food before the game.　 I drew next to Mom to see about catching Ariel before she left school.

"Coach, Dr Jordan talked to me about the scholarship that Dee Jay received and she suggested that I check with Jennifer before we talked again.　　Jennifer said that I should ASAP.　 Is it okay　 for me to catch her before she leaves school?"

"Go ahead Kiddo, fine by me!　 We’ll bring you some food back."

"Thanks Mom!" I gave her a kiss on her cheek and then hurried back to the school building to catch Ariel.　 I was in luck because she was still in her classroom working on something at her desk when I came in.

"Hi Dr Jordan!"

"Thank you for returning , Denise. And it’s still Ariel. Did you have a question?"　

"I did as you asked and I’m ready to tell what I know.　 Jennifer confirmed that you all were helpful."

"Come sit down and close the door behind you."

"Thanks."

I took a seat across from her after I had shifted a chair that I picked up on the way.

"Part of this is a school secret that I am not sure if you know about."

"Is it the reason behind Dee Jay being moved to a next to last period study hall early this year? If so I will continue to keep that secret."

"Okay that simplifies it.　 Since you know, do you mind if I talk around it.　 It’s just uncomfortable for me to do anything .. you know?"

"It’s Okay! Proceed."

"Well because of well　 .. you know… Dee Jay was in a position for his natural mimic ability to be used to help the school.　 When Jenna left because her mother was transferred overseas, the cheerleader competition that they had worked so hard for was in jeopardy.　 Hailey, who took over for Jenna, decided that we couldn’t get another girl in championship shape on the routines in time for the competition.　 Dee Jay knew the routines because of ... you know… but our team was entered in the all girl classification.　 So the only way for Dee Jay to participate was if Dee Jay was turned into a girl.　 Hailey led a Wiccan circle and their friend Ken had turned out to be a transgirl and the circle turned Ken into Kendra.　 They wanted to do the same thing for me only if I wasn’t a transgirl it would only last for one cycle of the moon.　 Star is a hacker who decided how to do my life history and decided the best place for a non-existent person to be was at the consortium’s academy.　 Oops sorry!"

"That explains why you said that Dee Jay didn’t exist right now but if all went well he’d be back in a lunar cycle and you’d be gone.　 How did they change you?"

　"Mom’s friend Rebecca from her sorority flew in to watch over me to make sure they did it right.　　It was Hailey, Chelsea, Kendra, Star, Rebecca, Sabrina and Veronica in the circle.　 They chanted something like "Lord of the Dance" while I was in the circle only I know it was really something Celtic and I was out of it.　 Thirty-six hours later I woke up as Denise.　 Rebecca had to leave but she sent word that something was wrong in the circle.　 It was pure evil!"

"Is that what you are trying to do besides help win the competition for your lunar cycle is find the evil and best it?"

"A huge evil had corrupted it so that it wasn’t Wiccan anymore.　 The spell is keyed so that if a girl gets pregnant, she stays a girl because turning back would harm the baby.　　 There were additions to the spell to raise my sex drive to a point where I would have gotten pregnant.　 Rebecca stripped it out but the evil is still after me.　 Since it can't change my sex drive now, it’s throwing horny guys my way.　 Fortunately the first one, Jennifer’s son Richard, had a protection charm that negated the spell for him to deflower me but it’s up to me to identify and banish the evil before it can harm me and trap me as a girl.　 So going after the evil is really self defense."

"I believe that I understand. Please contact me if you feel the consortium might help you with your task.　 Either way, as Denise or Dee Jay, the consortium is interested in you.　　They know that you have to take care of this first but they will be waiting."

"Thanks. This is so weird, it’s just great to have someone else believe me. If I need help then I’ll be in touch.　 Thanks, Ariel"

"You’re welcome, Denise.　 Good luck cheering at the game tonight!"

"Bye!"

I left her room and the building and headed out to the baseball field.　 Mom was there waiting with an Arby's bag and drink.

"We ended up at Arby’s so I brought back your favorite."

"Oh a Turkey and Swiss! You remembered!　 Thanks Mom! " 　

I love Arby’s Turkey and Swiss only it tasted so much better than I remembered.　 I wondered about that and then realized that girls have a much better sense of smell than boys.　 Much about tasting food is also how it smells so better smelling means better tasting.

Hailey came over and took me away from the other girls to chat.

"How are you doing, really Dee Jay?"

"I'm doing well! I'm very comfortable with my body and I seem to be doing the routines even better now than before."

"Are you okay with all this?"

"Yes I am.　 I know part of that is the spell and I'll have to wait 'til after new moon to know for sure if I were really a transgirl and born to this or not. I'm a great mimic and what I'm learning now will let me continue coping when the "Training Wheels" are gone.　 I just might need to actually ask questions then. Right now I can just recall my fictional past but it will be gone then."

"I am glad things are okay for you so far.　 I made good on my promise.　 I built into the spell a back door that I can use by myself to end the spell early.　 The only catch is that it's the same ending conditions as the full spell so like it you'd be a girl if you started out a transgirl and a boy otherwise."

"That's what I expected.　 Hailey, it may tell you more by me saying that if you want to address the real me then call me Denise because right at this moment she's the only reality that I have. Dee Jay's life feels like someone else lived it and it takes a lot of faith to believe he was ever real."

"In your Denise memories, were you Amy before Jenna left?"

"Yes."

"How are you adjusting to being a cheerleader?　 Bet you got the full treatment today with the status and admiration in your cheerleader outfit in class today."

"It's been different and the attention has been at times disturbing.　 I think that's why I liked being Amy because I could do such good work for the school but personally stay out of the limelight.　　Now it's a different responsibility.　 Those around take more from me but give more in return.　　I already know that I would not trade being a cheerleader for anything except to go back to being Amy.　 But that's not my place right now and I am needed to be a cheerleader to help the school so I am one.　 You know?"

"Yes, I know.　 Each of us have to make the same tradeoffs since this service intrudes on our personal space but I'm glad that you are willing to make the same choice that the rest of us have that it is worth it."

"It is most certainly worth it. I guess it's time to go to the field and start cheering! Woo Hoo!"

"You go girl!　 ARMYdillos Assemble!　 Time to start cheering!"　

We all gathered around Hailey as we had Jenna before her to go cheer.　 It was a little strange that I was in the cheerleader uniform and Chelsea was Amy but that's the way things were right now.　 We all went to go cheer at the baseball game.　

I daydreamed about Richard.　 Even though I had only just met him, there was something very familiar about him that I could not put my finger on.　 It was as though if I had only one more piece of the puzzle that it would all fall into place but without that one piece it was hopeless.

I managed to get out and talk to Veronica before the game by herself.　 I had also managed to slip one of the crystals out and tuck it in my bra without encountering anyone else.　 We talked and agreed that I would attend Temple on Saturday with her and her family so I would see what it was like.　 Even with the events going on that Momma had planned for Saturday, I knew that she would make sure she allowed time for those who wanted to go to services to do so.　 She was just like that, embracing all faiths and their right to practice their religion where and when they felt led to do so.

When I was out of sight of Veronica, I looked at the stone and it had turned black.　 No wonder she was such a poor Wiccan!　 She, herself, was under the influence of a powerful force that was used for evil.　 I wonder how Veronica　would react when she was free again to act of her own accord.　　

That meant that the only one that I hadn't tested was Hailey.　 Rebecca was certain that it didn't come from Hailey already so it could be any one of them.　 I had to go through with testing Hailey anyway to see if she were tainted as well.　 The crystals had revealed "The Club" as an even greater threat but were useless in fingering the one behind it.　

Hailey decided that we really needed to get the crowd enthusiastic.　 From watching practice, I had a pretty good idea what Richard could do pitching and the Baseball ARMYdillos who took the field today would be as different from the team that squeaked out the opener like night and day.　 We all picked up our megaphones because this was a responsive cheer that the crowd answered us.　 First time through, Hailey led the cheer and used her megaphone alone and we echoed.　

"Heidi Hay! Hit It

Heidi Hay Heidi ho!

Heidi Hay Heidi ho!

Wooly woodly Wily Whoa!

Wooly woodly Wily Whoa!

Lift your heads and hold them high!

Lift your heads and hold them high!

ARMYdillos passing by

ARMYdillos passing by"

We all joined in with Hailey on our Megaphones as we repeated what came before and the crud rocked the stands and echoed us!　 it was sure different being one of the cheerleader's in the short skirt and tank top than it was as Amy.　 I was out there for all to see and part of me just loved it especially when Richard had his attention on just me!

"Heidi Hay Heidi ho!

Heidi Hay Heidi ho!

Wooly woodly Wily Whoa!

Wooly woodly Wily Whoa!

Lift your heads and hold them high!

Lift your heads and hold them high!

ARMYdillos passing by!

ARMYdillos passing by!"

Sound off!

ARMYdillos!

Hit it again!

ARMYdillos!

Rip it apart!

Aye

Arr"

Emm

Wye

Dee

Eye i

El

El

Oh!

Es!

Yeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaah! ARMYdillos!

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!"

We were jumping up and down and shaking our pom poms in the air and we all ended up by all of us doing a split at the same time, except Chelsea as Amy! We were trying to work on it so that she could duplicate my feat of performing a split in the costume.　 It was so cool and the crowd loved it!

The crowd was on fire and the baseball game was sensational because Richard was extraordinary!　 Richard pitched a perfect game for the ARMYdillos and hit three home runs, one of which was a grand slam.　 The final score was 11-0　

I was so proud of Richard and it looked like the predictions that we could win state were not all that far fetched after all.　 He walked off the field after throwing the last pitch in the perfect game and straight into my arms.　 I had the perfect excuse to give him all the attention that I had wanted to give him earlier. I did that and more and both Richard and I were very pleased with what transpired

However, both our mothers came by to break up our little PDA.

"Young lady, it is a school night! Go hit the showers!　 We're going home ASAP"

"Yes, Coach!"

"You too Richard!"

"Yes Mom!"

Before I could get my lip stuck too far out pouting, Mom had me wrapped up in a hug.　 I saw that Jennifer was hugging her son as well.

"Oh Sweetie, you danced like a star tonight! I'm proud of you!" And she whispered, "Remember."

I wrapped my arms around her hand squeezed.　 I did remember that the sooner that I got home the sooner that the four of us would be out of prying eyes and able to discuss today.　 I think that Richard must have gotten the same prompt because he was off like a deer for the showers.　

"Thanks Mom!"

I turned and exited quickly for the showers myself.　 I had to be home quickly before Jennifer and Richard arrived to compare notes. I wanted to change into something a bit racier than the outfit I had in my locker to put on when I finished my shower.

Before we knew it, the five of us were in our living room.　 I think that they on purpose had Mom and I on the couch sitting across from Jennifer and Richard on the love seat.　 Alicia took the chair in between the couch and the love seat. They did not trust us not to make out and they were right!　

Jennifer began. "The consortium which was offering the scholarship to Dee Jay before has blown my cover since Star inadvertently duplicated test results they gave to Dee Jay that Denise could not have taken. The good news is that they made my identity secure from further hacking and will keep my secret in return for the chance for me to finish their Scholarship testing after the month is over.

"Denise informed me and I verified that they are on the up and up.　 While they seem to have no experience in the supernatural, they have a way of making things happen in the mundane world and should be a good ally.　 Denise should be able to learn things about them with the interaction that she might not have been able to learn otherwise so she can make a more informed decision regarding any offer they make."

"Thanks, Jennifer.　 The other news of the day is with the detection crystals I have five black crystals out of the seven provided.　 It leaves only Hailey to not turn a crystal black yet and Rebecca was sure that Hailey was not the source of the evil but she could be tainted like the rest.　 That makes them kinda useless except to let us know this is a lot worse than we thought."

"Not entirely Denise, you need to go ahead and try to identify Hailey with the crystal and if all of the circle is tainted then the last crystal could identify any one who they add to their circle to take Jenna's place. The ones that you have turned can also serve another purpose.　 If you have any girls at school who you are close to you should check to see if they are untainted.　 If untainted it should turn the crystal back clear or in some cases a brilliant white.　 If it doesn't turn then it might not be activated so you'd have to try a clear crystal to confirm someone is tainted."

"That is useful, Alicia. Thanks!　 I should check Fran and Julie since they have become friends and of course Ariel who is the consortium connection."

"That is a good idea, Sweetie.　 Anything else today?"

"Guess that is all except that Richard and I are officially an item at the school and I tried to reinforce that after the game tonight."

"I really enjoyed the attention but Denise, I feel we should just do the acting instead of slipping into a relationship for real.　 Part of what you are feeling now is due to the spell and I would like to be sure it's really you and not the spell behind it.　 We can still have fun, just within limits, okay?"

"Okay, Richard.　 You are right but geeze you sound like my mother right now and I would rather you sound like my boyfriend!"

"That's okay Richard! What Denise needs now is a coach and it's curfew young lady.　 Say good night to all the nice people and go to bed please."

"Yes Coach!" I went around and gave Alicia and Jennifer a hug and a chaste kiss on Richard's cheek.

"Good night All!"

I went around to Mom and wrapped her up in a bear hug and kissed her cheek.

"I love you Mom!"

"I love you too, Kiddo.　 I'll be up to tuck you in after our guests leave."

"Thanks!"

I turned and went upstairs to bed.　 I had the best Mom that a daughter could ever want.　 I got ready for bed and true to her word, Mom tucked me in.　 I drifted off to sleep without a care in the world because I have faith in her.

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And now a preview of the next chapter of "Dance, Dance, Dance"

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Part 6 ~ Always Darkest

[Thursday, Day Five of the Enchantment]

 

When I woke earlier than the alarm, I found that “The Recliner”, the one that Momma always pulled into my room when she was worried about me was there.  She herself wasn’t there but by the covers and pillows on the recliner, it was clear that she spent a lot of the night watching over me.  The fragrance in the room was amazing with the herbs and rose petals scattered about, the candles which must have been new when they started which were now burning low.   The remnants of essential oils beconed as my room had become a fragrant feast.  Soon after Momma returned and got back into the recliner, but upon seeing me awake and sitting up in bed, she arranged the covers that she got back into on her lap and raised the recliner to it’s full and upright position.

“Good Morning, Kiddo!  I hope that my getting up didn’t wake you.   How did you sleep?”

“Like a baby, Momma!  What’s all this?”

“I thought that it would be a nice precaution to take.   Sometimes the dreams of the unprepared are intruded upon by a great evil like the one that you intruded upon yesterday by revealing it’s agents.”

“I thought that Rebecca had put wards in place so that the evil couldn’t spell me.”

“That she did sweetie, and they are holding just fine.  However there is the one thing that we can’t overlook now that we realize just how powerful it is to not just use but possess all those girls in the circle.”

“And what is that, Momma?”

“The Evil only has six girls to prey upon to work it’s way upon this plane, but is used to having seven.   The distance that Jenna’s Mom put between her and “The Club” has saved her and removed her from its immediate influence.   In the end in order to put this to rest, she will need the evil’s touch removed from her as will all the girls in its clutches.”

“Rebecca acted as the seventh in the circle that created me but she kept the evil from making me a permanent girl by removing the factors that would have compelled me to become pregnant.  I guess that by being protected by the wards and keeping myself pure, I’m not the vessel that the evil could have easily possessed like Kendra was when she was made.   She was transgender so she became a permanent girl after the month was thru.”

“As a cheerleader and spiritual sister to the girls, and as one who has eluded its easy grasp, it still wants you and needs someone to bring its power up to full strength again.  What it could not get by your physical acts, it could possess you by your subconscious desires which are free to invade when you enter the dream plane.  If it is able to subvert that subconscious avatar then it could possess the real you and bypass the wards in place to protect you.  Under it’s influence you would be directed to do what it took for you to remain a female vessel under its control.”

“So that’s why all this is in place.   To protect me while I dreamed and was still vulnerable to the evil.  Thank you Momma!  It must have realized when I was made with all of the evil purpose countermanded that it wasn’t going to be likely that I would fall to it.”

“That’s why we need to be looking out for a new member of the circle.  Rebecca took it unaware and vulnerable.  It’s human agent had a real stake in converting you so you could compete with the girls so that great desire made the evil use what was available which was Rebecca even though it did not control her.  It wont want to be weakened by that for long so it will seek out someone who’s desires and links with the other girls make her a fit for the seventh girl.”

“How are we to know that short of witnessing another circle formed with a new seventh girl among them?”

“Have faith in providence to provide the chance to detect her.  The One is greatly amused by coincidence and could bring fortune our way if we stay true.”

“How long will my dreams have to be guarded?”

“Till the evil is banished from this plane or is vanquished by The One..  We were fortunate that your first days were of dreamless sleep from your newly embodied spirit needing time to restore a balance to your mind and body interaction.  Your spirit has accepted your new body and now it is able to allow you to enter the dream plane.  How did you see yourself in your dreams, sweetie?”

 “I saw myself as a young woman like I am now instead of as the boy I used to be.”

“So now you can dream freely, and the evil could attack you without this protection,  We really should not have counted on the transformation to disrupt your dreaming and should have been protecting you in this way since the Evil was revealed.  We are fortunate that all is well.”

“Momma you all have been really great and this is the kind of thing that no one could have been prepared prior to it being revealed.  I’m just glad that you are on my side and that you have such wonderful friends who out of the blue have come back into your life at the time you and I need them the most.”

“Thanks Kiddo!  You are my world and even though I must let you be free to make your own way, I’ll do my best to protect you in any way that I can.  I love you, sweetie!”

“I love you too Momma!”

“Unfortunately, I can’t prevent you from enduring some things but I can be there for you to help you thru them.”

“Why are you sounding like something like that is coming up all of a sudden?  What’s going on Momma?  Is everything okay?  The Evil didn’t sneak in when we weren’t expecting it, did it?”

“You’ve got a clean slate of magical health, Kiddo.  It’s just that in the documents that even the unknown Ultra Hackers came up for you did not include a sports physical.  I’m afraid it’s not the kind of document that can be faked easily so they went for a general statement of good health for you without supplying the specifics that could trip things up. I’m afraid that you are going to have to have your first physical as a girl including a full gynecological work up in order for you to continue in the Cheerleader program and be eligible to be in the competition.  I’ve got an appointment for us scheduled this morning.”

“Well it can’t be that bad, Momma!  You survived your share of them since you were a girl and so going thru just one can’t be that bad.  At least it’s going to happen before the new moon so I’ll still have the training wheels to help me too!”

“That’s the spirit, Kiddo!  I’m taking you to see my gynecologist, Dr Glenda Moore, for this and she’s a real gem and will get you thru the experience with the minimum of discomfort.  And I’ll be there to hold your hand thru it.  It’s a bit unusual for a girl your age but there are no records of a complete physical in your portfolio.  Of course with the fictional upheaval that kept you away from home so long after your father’s death, it’s understandable that even if such a thing occurred the records might have been lost.  So for all practical purposes this will be treated as your first exam and I have every right to be there with you to help you thru it and comfort you.”

“Thanks for being here for me, Momma when ever I need you!”

“You are welcome sweetheart!  I’ll sign you out after your first period class so meet me at the office after first period.  If all goes well we should be thru in time to have a nice lunch together then sign you back in for your afternoon classes.”\

“That sounds great, Momma.  I’ll meet you in the office after first period.”

“What did you have planned for after school?.  I was just wondering if I should stay to pick you up to bring you home after cheerleader practice.”

“I want to wrangle an invitation to go over to Chelsea and Hailey’s house after school to spend the afternoon.  I need to get a chance to come in physical contact with Hailey to see if she’s overcome with the evil like all the rest.  Who knows, with two of “The Club” there perhaps I might even run into the new seventh member of the club while I’m there and then we’ll know at least what the entire situation is before the next phase of actually trying to banish the evil from the girls.”

“Sound like a good plan, Kiddo! Make sure that you let me know for sure that you are going and also if you need to extend it to over supper or into the evening.”

“I will Momma!”

“Well I guess we both are up so I’ll go get on with my morning routine and leave you to yours.  I hope you have a great day, Kiddo!”

“I hope you do too, Momma”

Momma was out and left me with a  chance to think over what she had said.  I was glad that there was no game today so I wouldn’t be on display and stand out so much in my cheerleader outfit.  I’d have to put some thought into what I would wear since I wanted to fit in but didn’t want to look like a Quaker girl either.  I had one reprieve in that I would just have to bring the outfit along since I would be dressing for the activity that Momma had planned for us before school today.

I went to my bathroom and stripped out of my nightgown and panties and got into the shower having first protected my hair so that it wouldn’t get wet.  Once I was completely clean I rinsed off and the left the shower wrapping my self in a towel and then taking care of all of my morning routine.   I could tell all thru it all that there was a bit of noise going on in my bedroom but I thought nothing of it.  I imagined that either Alicia or Momma was busy with something out there. 

But when I was ready to leave the bathroom and go out into my room to get dressed, I cautiously peeked out to see if the coast was clear.  I threw the door open amazed at the transformation that the room had undergone! Gone were all the reminders of the ritual that had gone on last night as though it never happened.  

But even more amazing was that in the alcove, where I’d never had anything in that space, was now a seating area with the recliner on one of the walls leading to my east facing window with its window seat and on the other wall was a brand new flat screen TV hanging up there.  The recliner had been covered in a new slip cover that had a pattern that had been taken up by the wallpaper which had appeared on the walls of the alcove when I was transformed.  It was just perfect!  Now the recliner could stay in my room and not look out of place ready to be used by someone to watch over me every night as I slept!  I was so blessed to have all this help when I needed it most!  

~~~(***/::|::\***)~~~

Momma gathered the girls together and took us in the van to the site for the Gymnastics lesson. All of us were already good all around gymnast. We had to be to do some of the Dance tricks in our routines. This training was to home our gymnastic skills in the individual exercises. That increased skill level would help us in our routines.

I loved Gymnastics even more now that I could more easily do all of the skills for girls with my female body and new center of gravity. There were a good representation of girls from the other schools too that we got to meet with and socialize. As soon as we warmed up, we divided up randomly into 2 teams. The instructors scored us as the competition judges.

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Dance, Dance, Dance Cast List

 

The Cheerleaders for the Lamur Institute ARMYdillos under Coach Patricia Russell

• Hailey Dooley, Senior Cheerleader Captain
• Star Lacon, Junior Cheerleader
• Kendra Nestle, Junior Cheerleader
• Denise Janice Russell, Freshman Cheerleader
• Chelsea Dooley, Freshman Mascot, Amy the ARMYdillo

Former Cheerleader Squad Members of the Lamur Institute ARMYdillos

• Jenna Jones, Former Senor Cheerleader Captain
• Dexter Jacob "Dee Jay" Russell, Former Freshman Mascot, Amy the ARMYdillo

Members of "The Club" aka Hailey's Wiccan Circle

• Hailey Dooley, The Leader, Lamur Institute Senior
• Star Lacon, Lamur Institute Junior
• Kendra Nestle, Lamur Institute Junior
• Chelsea Dooley, Lamur Institute Freshman
• Veronica Fielder, Junior Parson HS
• Sabrina Wright, Junior Townsend HS
• Dawn Dooley, Hailey and Chelsea's mother

Former Members of "The Club" aka Hailey's Wiccan Circle

• Janice Turner, Original Member when Kendra was changed, Died tragically shortly after
• Jenna Jones, Original Member till she left with her mother overseas
• Rebecca Coburn, Adult who filled in when Dee Jay was changed.

Other Lamur Institute Students

• Richard Sanders, Junior and baseball star player, Denise's romantic interest
• Francine West, Freshman Class President
• Julie Newman, Freshman Class Vice President

The Adults

• Patricia Russell, Denise's Mother and Lamur Institute Cheerleader Coach
• Theresa Lacon, Star's Mother and Lamur Institute Headmistress
• Dawn Dooley, Hailey and Chelsea's mother
• Rebecca Coburn, Former friend of Patricia's and a Wiccan Circle leader
• Jennifer Sanders, Former friend of Patricia's , Wiccan Circle member, Hacker, Security Consultant on assignment
• Alicia Holden, Former friend of Patricia's, Wiccan Circle member, Lawyer, Transwoman
• Jeffery Russell, Denise's Father. Air Force Captain, Pilot,  KIA in Iraq
• Charles Nestle, Kendra's Father and Lamur Institute Homeroom teacher, Baseball coach

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