Shock's Journal - Clean Version

June 1st
Jack bought me this simply charming journal the other day, leather with a black cover. I'm so happy to have it! I midas well tell you a bit about myself, I guess. My name is Shock Marie Skellington (the middle name of which I despise). I'm 15 years old and the adopted daughter of Jack Skellington, Pumpkin King of Halloween. Being the oldest of three children, I am the first in line to become heir to the throne. Once Jack passes away I shall be crowned as Queen, and I will rule over Halloween in his place. It's quite a scary thought, actually, but I'm confident that I can handle it. I have two brothers, both of them being brats. First there's Lock; he's 13. Then there's Barrel, who is 12. The both of them are annoying little weasels. Jack has a wife, Sally, who currently 9 months pregnant. Her child will be born any day now, and we can hardly wait for it to happen! Jack thinks that it's going to be a boy, but she's just about certain that it's a girl. Personally I think a girl as well. Anyways, I'm quite delighted with this little diary. Jack called it "a place for me to write down all my most secret thoughts". And it is my promise to write in it as often as I can!

June 3rd
I didn't have a chance to write yesterday, as Jack requested my assistance at Town Hall and we ended up staying late. I am often required to assist the King with preperations for the holiday. Jack wants me to train as much as possible for the day when I will take his place as the ruler of Halloween. I find it sometimes to be a most demanding job, but not too bad. Jack, however, has had somewhat of a harder time dealing with it. Even though he is one of the greatest rulers in Halloween history, he probably would have enjoyed a different occupation more. A common life. He often admits to that himself. Sometimes he grows quite depressive, and it is then that I try to help out as best I can. Sometimes it's quite hard, but my assistance it always appreciated. As always, I am quite willing to help. Then there's Sally. She is my mother, even though she did not give birth to me. I never knew my real mother, or at least I have no real memories of her. She just waited until me and my brothers were born and then disapeared, both her and my dad. Of course, not before sending us to live with Oogie Boogie. Ugh. I still shiver at the thought of him. Me and my brothers were his little henchmen, doing his evil bidding at his every command. We knew no better though; he pretty much raised us, seeing as our mother and father both abandoned us. I shall never forgive them for that. But now I feel that I really do have parents, Jack and Sally. Sally is like a best-friend to me. I can talk to her so easily about stuff that I can't discuss with anybody else. Like Malik. *sigh*. Malik. He's my boyfriend, and I care for him dearly. We've been going out for a long time now, just over a year. I often wonder how it happened that our relationship has lasted this long. Most teenage couples, especially when they're both only young like us, only stay together for a week or so. Not so in our case. Malik is just...special. That's the only way I can describe it. Anyways, goodnight for now.

June 4th
I had to help out at Town Hall again today. Luckily this time we got to come home at 5:00 rather then 10:00.
There's one thing I should write about that I didn't mention before; Ezra. About three years ago Jack and Sally had a little baby boy together, a wonderful child. This was Ezra. When he was just two years old, however, he died in a most unfortunate accident. We were all quite distressed by this, Jack most notably. At one point he attempted to commit suicide, but failed. Finally Sally had enough of his dreary attitudes and demanded a divorce; this made everything 10 times worse then they'd already been before. Jack couldn't bear this, and nearly drank himself to death. Sally had to drag him home off the road. After this she realized her mistake, and they got back together again. Today they're more in love then they ever were before, and even though Ezra is gone forever we'll never forget him. The two of them are such a perfect match, though. It's almost magical watching them when they're together, to see the love that they feel. The both of them are perfect souls mates.
Anyways, me and Malik have a date to go scaring tommorrow tonight. I always look forward to my evenings with him. They're so much fun, and he's such a pleasant person to be around. He has a great sense of humor. And even though he isn't the best looking guy in Halloween, I don't care. I love him just the same. His personality makes up for that.
Well, that's all for tonight. I'll write again after my date tommorrow.

June 5th What a horrible evening I had. Me and Malik got into a huge argument, and I'm horribly upset now. We were in New York City tonight, in Central Park. It was quite nice, actually, few people being around. I can't really recall right now how it all started. We got into this discussion about the government of the United States, which we then compared to how Jack rules Halloweentown. That eventually evolved into how each of us would rule Halloween. I, being the heir to the throne, think that things should be kept basically the same way they already are. No changes, just the way it's always been. He, however, believed that we ought to have drastic changes in all aspects of Halloween. And he was quite persistent to have me see his way. When I didn't he began to get upset. That, in turn, turned into the arguement, in which we were both screaming our points at each other. He stated numerous times that Jack was a bad King, but I replied with the fact that he couldn't do half as good. Which he couldn't; he has no idea how to properly take control of this holiday. My father has over 500 years experience; he can't be wrong. Malik, however, is only 15 years old. I think that experience wins this battle over. Anyways, I don't really care about Malik. It's over now. Besides, I don't need someone like that in my life. If I want to be with somebody, then I want him to accept my own thoughts and ideas. And Malik certainly does not.

June 6th
What a nerve Malik has! He came up to me at Town Hall yesterday and actually tried to apologize for last night! I wouldn't have any of it though; I told him to just go away, to leave me alone. Which is exactly what I want him to do. I don't appreciate the things he said, and I don't believe I'll ever forgive him 100%. I mean, you can't just insult Jack in front of me and get away with it. Jack means a lot to me, he really does. And when Malik said that my father was a bad King, he burnt down the bridge that linked the both of us together. But not only that, I want my thoughts and opinions to be appreciated; Malik simply could not tolerate my difference in ideas. I've noticed that in him before, his desire for everyone to think exactly like him. But I refuse to bend to his morals; I'm just going to forget about him, for I know that he's not the right one for me.
Even still, I can't help but feel upset over him. He was my first boyfriend, we dated for just about year. A year! Imagine that! And with 24 hours we've already called it quits. Ironic, isn't it? How you can devote such a long period of time to a person and suddenly realize that it was all for nothing? Oh, well. That's life. But I cared about him so much...he was a wonderful boyfriend, and there is a part of me that will deeply miss him. He could be such a great person when he wanted to be (and plus he was a great kisser). What am I talking about, though? It's over, we're history now. It'll be hard coping to life without him though.

June 8th
I love Jack so very much. The other night at supper time I was quite upset over me and Malik's break-up, I was really beginning to get upset over it. I couldn't really explain it, I just began to realize how much I truly cared about him. I wasn't sure if I had made the right choice or not. I guess I wasn't saying or doing much, just sitting there and picking at my rat legs. Lock and Barrel were heartily enjoying theirs, while Jack and Sally talked about how well the holdiay was progressing. I stabbed at the food in front of me a few times with a fork, but it didn't seem to improve my appetite any.
At that point Jack looked towards me, a sad look in his eye. "Shock," he began, "Is there something wrong? You seem upset."
I just shook my head as a tear rolled down my cheek. "No," I replied through tears, "I'm fine. I feel as if my life is ruined, but I'm fine." I pushed back my chair as I stood up, throwing down the fork. "Excuse me," I sobbed. "I'm not hungry." With that I ran upstairs to my bedroom, crying the entire way.
Jack knocked at the door a few minutes later, stepping into my room. He sat on the edge of the bed beside me, putting an arm across my shoulder.
"Now then," he told me, "what's wrong? You can tell me."
In a flood of sudden and unexplainable tears I told him everything, what Malik had said and everything else I've written in this diary about it. I told him about how much I cared about him, how much he had meant to me. When I was finally finished, Jack held me in his arms and rocked with me slowly. "Oh, my darling Shock," he sighed. "I know exactly how you're feeling. I felt the same way when I broke up with my first girlfriend. Devestated me for weeks. I know what it's like to be young and in love, thinking that you'll always be together and that you'll never be apart. That changes though. And even though you don't think it now, you'll get over it. Little by little you will, without even realizing it."
"Oh, Jack," I sobbed. "I just...I can't believe he's gone...it's really over..."
"But not forgotten," he replied. "Listen to me, there will be other guys. As you grow up you will date and love and break up many times, and one day you will find the right person for you. Trust the expert here. I must have had hundreds of girlfriends, countless lovers, yet I never found my soul mate until Sally came along. It was when we started going out that I realized she was my soulmate. It won't be the first person who comes along, Shock, but it'll happen. I promise you, it'll happen. But for now you must learn to accept the heartbreak, adjust to the sorrow you're feeling. It'll pass, and once it does you'll wonder why you were so upset in the first place."
I tightened my hold on him, resting my head upon his strong shoulder. I could smell the cologne that he wore everyday, feel his arms around me as we embraced. I began to cry heavy tears, my chest heaving as I sobbed. Jack just held me, singing to me a lullaby he had sung Ezra when he was still alive.
I don't think I could have loved anyone more in that moment then the love I felt for Jack. And I don't think I ever will. He's so wonderful and loving....how did I ever manage to be adopted by such a terrific person? Why had the Pumpkin King ever chosen me as his heir? When I asked him this, he just smiled.
"Because," he replied simply, "I love you. You're so important to me, you know, you and your brothers lit up my life when you entered it. I don't know what I'd do without you three."
I felt a lot better once I let him go. He stood up and took my hand, kissing it softly. "Are you going to be alright now?" he asked.
I nodded. "Yes, I will. It still hurts, but I feel a lot better now."
He smiled. "Wonderful. However, I'd like for you to stay home tommorrow, take it easy. After experiencing such a heartbreak as you've just gone through, one needs to take a bit of a rest." So that's what I did the next day. Took a bubble bath, read some of my favourite poetry, relaxed. And now I feel a lot better, thanks to Jack, my father. Without him, I don't know what would ever become of me.

June 9th
I returned to Town Hall today, to my duty as the heir to the throne. I was in much better spirits, and my good mood didn't even diminish when I saw Malik. He was carving pumpkins, and doing a horrible job on it I might add. I noticed this with a smile, mentioning it to Jack in a hushed voice. He grinned along with me, before stating that he ought to go straighten him out. But what I did next really surprised me. I asked for permission to do it myself. Jack, needless to say, was quite surprised, and grew concerned for whether or not I could handle it. I just laughed, saying that I could. And so he gave me permission to take care of it.
I headed over to Malik's work area with a spring in my step, delighted with this oppurtunity. He said nothing as I stood in front of him, watching him work. Not even when I chuckled did he look up. "This is a horrible job you've got done here," I told him. "The worst you've done yet! Something distracting you?" Nothing. I went on. "Number one, the grins you've got going are all wrong. It should look as if they're about to scream at any moment. And second of all, the eyes. Where's the life in them? They look so dull! Your work today doesn't amount to the stuff you usually put out. I suggest you fix it up."
He slammed down his carving tools suddenly, staring at me. I could see in his eyes the lack of sleep, the exhaustion from too many nights without rest. "Listen," he hissed. "I haven't gotten any rest for four nights straight now, I've been so upset over you. And you know what? I haven't got the slightest clue as to why I'm so upset over losing you! So if I'm not living up to your expections, then you can just go to hell. Okay?"
"No Malik," I said, "you listen. I spent the past two days crying over you, trying to accept the fact that you were gone and out of my life forever. But you know what? I couldn't give a damn any more! You are no more a part of my life now then any other stranger, and that's the way I intend to keep it. So stop trying to make me feel guilty, because it's not going to work. We're through."
"Ahem," came a sudden voice. It was Jack. "Is there a problem here?"
"No, sir," said Malik quickly. "Not at all."
"Good. Because if I ever hear tale of you causing my daughter grief of any type, you will be in great trouble."
"I know, sir."
"And make note that you are no longer welcome in the area of Shock. I catch you trying to talk to her so much as once..."
"I know, Mr. Skellington, sir, Mister Pumpkin King, sir, it'll never happen again, sir!!" he cried.
"Good," said my father as he walked away. "Make sure to it then."
I couldn't help but chuckle at Malik. "By the way," I said as I followed Jack, "You might want to something other then carving pumpkins. Maybe growing them." I laughed as I headed off, knowing how grave of an insult I had just given him. Pumpkin harvesting was saved for the worst of the worst, the totally incapable ones. And he knew now where he was going if he ever disobeyed any of Jack's rules.
That's what I admire about Jack, dear diary. He can strike fear in the heart of anyone he desires, even mine. I often catch myself trembling with fear when he's angry. He doesn't loose his temper that often but when he does you don't want to be the one he's mad at. He has this look that can literally drive a person mad if he looks at it too long. He has the ability to scare the bravest of humans, to outsmart the most intelligent of them. But any of that hardly matters to me. Jack is the sweetest and kindest person I have ever known; still though, often times I can scarcely believe that he's my father! I never thought I'd find two such loving parents as Jack and Sally. They're so perfect, so wonderful and magnificent in every way. I couldn't possibly imagine life without them.

June 10th
At last, it's about to happen! Sally's going to have her baby! She announced it tonight at supper, and man did Jack ever panic! He looked like a chicken with its head cut off the way he was running about. He helped Sally with her coat and then said that I was in charge before hurrying off towards the hospital. That was around 5:30. Right now it's 11:26 and there still hasn't been any word from either one of them. These things take time though, I must be patient. I'm so anxious though! I can barely stand the tension! Lock and Barrel are just as bad, though. They're every bit as excited as I am. They insisted upon calling everyone we know and telling them the news. I pretended to be somewhat calm the whole time, but I was really bursting. How could you not be? I can't wait, I'm dying to hear some type of word from them! I've gotta relax...I'll here about it soon enough. Midas well try to get some sleep I guess. Good-night.

June 11th
It's a girl! Jack called early this morning and told us. We were actually still asleep and Lock got to the phone first, but I wrestled it from him (he's got quite a nasty looking bruise now). Jack sounded quite tired, but it was obvious how pleased he was. Apparantly her name is Kyrene Naomi Skellington, the middle name after Jack's mother. He didn't stay to chat long, as he was tending to Sally. But he was very pleased with his child, that was quite obvious. He only came home once, for lunch. He gave me instructions to call the day a holiday, so I called the mayor and told him. He was wonderfully surprised with the news of the arrival, and promised to pass the news on to the rest of Halloweentown. This is great, a little sister. Looks like Jack was wrong after all!

June 12th
Today was a more relaxed day. Sally made sure that Jack went to work (he wanted to stay there with her and the baby). She wouldn't hear of it however, made him go do his job. We really need him there though; we're starting to get behind on things. Today we managed to get pretty caught up. After work Jack quickly checked in on Sally and then returned home for the evening. We spent the evening telling scary stories and eating tarantula legs, just Jack, myself, Lock and Barrel. And tommorrow the baby comes home! We're all so excited! I still haven't seen her yet, neither have my brothers. We're going to have a special meal to celebrate, made of all Sally and Jack's favourites. Caterers will be hired to cook, and the mayor has been invited. I'm just happy that Malik's not going to be there. I was certain to make sure that he was left out on it.

June 13th
What a day. Where shall I start? Well, it all started out pretty ordinary. We were at Town Hall again, working on the holiday. I was looking down at some papers as I was walking, not even noticing this person carying a big load of boxes headed RIGHT TOWARDS me. So CRASH, we collided smack into each other.
"I'm sorry!" he exclaimed, extending a hand to help me up. I didn't get a good look at his face until I was halway up. He was extremely good-looking. Short black hair and handsome grey eyes, his skin pale white. I couldn't help but blush.
"Um, thanks," I replied. "Do you need help with thse boxes of yours?"
"Nah, don't worry about it. Jack wanted them outside for something, but it can wait." He flashed me a smile. "So what's your name?"
"Shock, Shock Skellington."
"Wait a sec, the Shock Skellington?"
"Yeah, so what?"
"The princess?" he continued. "I crashed into the princess? Oh, smooth move...."
I laughed. "Don't worry about it. Jack's not going to burn you at the stake for it or anything."
"You're sure?"
"Positive."
A sigh of relief. "Thank God. By the way, my name's Ira McVampson."
"Hi, Ira." I started picking up boxes. "Hey, um, would you like to join us for a special dinner tonight? To celebrate my sister's coming home. Just to make up for crashing into you."
"Really? Up at your house with the Pumpkin King?"
I laughed again. "He's not poison or anything, you know. I'd like for you to join us."
He nodded. "Alright then, I'll be there. See you then?"
"Yeah. Sorry once again...."
"No prob," he reassured me as soon as he had all the boxes under control. "It was lovely meeting you."
So that was Ira, but that's only part of the story. The dinner went extremely well, he charmed Jack and Sally to pieces while Lock and Barrel loved him. I finally got to see my sister, she's simply adorable!!!! Brown hair with slightly blue tintedskin, just like Sally's. But as I said, that's only part of the story. Here's the next part.
So we had finished the meal and were just sitting around the living room chatting when someone knocks on the door. Ira, trying to be gentlemanly, jumps up to get it. He returns with Dr. Topsy, the man who delivered Kyrene. The news he delivered to us wasn't good. Apparantly Kyrene has a disease, one called Thoranthiumitis. Jack freaked, jumped up and literally grabbed the man's collar, shaking him and demanding the truth. Sally pulled him back though, told him to remain calm.
"Are you sure you haven't made a mistake?" she asked.
"Doubtful," he replied sadly. "I've reviewed my findings numerous times. I'm afraid this is the conclusion I've come to."
Jack sighed at this. "Ah, Geez," he muttered. "Why is this happening to us? Our daughter....our darling daughter....doctor, is this disease fatal?"
"Yes," he answered. "I'm afraid so. What the virus does is it attacks the system, eating slowly away at it until there's nothing left. It can become quite painful to the victim, which is often why the parents of children simply hand their child over and ask for it to be put to sleep."
"PUT TO SLEEP!" he cried. "Put my daughter to sleep, like dog? Never!"
"Well, there's a chance she might not suffer like that.," he said. "However, she will not live past her 6th birthday, guaranteed."
"Oh.........." he moaned. "This can't be true. There has to be something we can do. Anything! I'll pay however much I have to!"
"It's not that easy though. There is one thing, but I don't know..............."
"ANYTHING! Please tell us!"
Dr. Topsy went on to say that out there somewhere in the human world there is an extremely rare plant. This plant can cure the rarest of diseases--even thoranthiumitis. No human knows of it--in fact nobody knows where it is. But apparantly it does exist somewhere, and it can help my sister. Jack became quite quiet at this news. "I see," he said. "Thank-you doctor."
"I'm sorry...."
"Don't worry about it."
"I'll be leaving then, I can show myself out."
He left, and immediately Sally broke down. She collapsed into Jack's arms, sobbing uncontrollably.
"Don't worry, sweetheart," he tried to soothe her. "It'll be alright."
Meanwhile, I couldn't seem to react. Tears were in my eyes, but I couldn't budge. "Shock?" Ira asked me. "Are you alright?"
I shook my head. "No, I'm not. Oh my God...she's just a baby. Not even a week old yet. Why do these things always happen to us?"
"It's not fair, I know," he said as he sat next to me. He put an arm around my shoulder, and I felt his presence to be a great comfort to me. I rested my head on his shoulder, allowing a few tears to slide down my cheek. I felt so content there....until the doorbell had to ring. He stood up to get it, promising to be back in a moment.
His head reappeared a few moments later; he looked upset. "Shock, I need you out here."
"What's wrong?"
"Just come, please."
"Should I come to?" Jack offered.
"Umm....perhaps...no, not at the moment. Just stay here for now, okay?"
He nodded as I got up and left. My heart was racing, uncertain of what lay before me. Out in the hall I met him--Malik. He tried to hold me.
"Shock, can we talk?" he asked. "I've come to apologize........"
"I already told you, no," I insisted. "It's too late now. I've found Ira. We're over."
"Please, Shock...."
"That's enough," Ira cut in. "She said no, Malik. Now please leave, you've caught the family at a bad time."
"Bad time my ass, I only want to speak with her."
"MALIK, GET LOST!" I screamed. "Just get out of my life. I don't love you anymore!"
"But I need you...."
"No, you don't. You're just jealous because I'm over you, while you still want me. Well, get over it." Without hesitation I grabbed Ira and pulled him close, kissing him upon the lips. I could hear the little cry uttered by Malik, but I didn't care. I closed my eyes and enjoyed it, releasing him with a triumphant smile on my lips. "See?" I said. "I really don't care any more. Now I suggest you leave."
His face went beet red. "Ira, I swear I'm gonna KILL you!" he cried. He dove forward, pushing him into the wall and holding him by the collar. With a look of fury in his eye he punched him, causing me to gasp. But he didn't stop. He did it again, and again, and again, until he was bleeding from the corner of his mouth and his nose.
"Malik, STOP!" I cried. "He didn't do anything! Please, leave him out of this!"
He turned towards me, not releasing him. "Why should I? He stole you from me, he deserves it!" He did it again, and I watched as Ira grew weaker.
"Malik, please stop it! Why are you being doing this?"
"Why?" he asked. "Why? Because he friggin' well has it coming to him!" And with that he continued to retaliate, punching Ira with all his might. Ira didn't even react though, just allowed himself to be beaten. I began to cry, hot wet tears rolling down my face. He went on though, until Ira was soaked with blood. I wanted to do something, but I couldn't do anything. Just stand there and watch this horrible display.
"WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE?" came a voice suddenly. We all turned to see Jack. Malik's eyes widened.
"Mr. Skellington--" he uttered. "I--I-"
"I don't need to see anyting else," he said. Let him go." He did, letting him slunk to the ground. I raced to Ira, dabbing at his blood stained face with a tissue.
"Malik, this is highly uncalled for behavior," my father continued. "You will be severely punished for this. Now go home--I will be calling your mother soon."
"Please, sir...." You could hear the fright in his voice.
"Stop begging and leave this household. I never want to see you near my daughter again." With that he slinked away, disapeering into the night air. Jack kneeled by Ira's side, observing him carefully. "He looks pretty roughed up," he said. "Let's get him to the living room."
"Right." We both dragged him out there, while a stunned Sally, Lock and Barrel looked on.
"What happened?" asked the former.
"Malik," replied Jack. "Beat the crap out of him. Darling, could you get a warm face cloth for me?"
"Certainly." She disapeered, while my two brothers sat in slience and disbelief.
"Did he fight back?" the king continued.
"No," I replied. "He just sat there and took it."
He nodded. "I see. I'm going to go help Sally, alright? Be right back." He left.
"Will he be alright?" asked Barrel timidly.
"I hope so," I replied honestly. "He really didn't deserve it."
"Ohhhhhhh........" came a sudden moan from the ground.
"Ira!" I cried. "How are you?"
He touched his blood soaked face, looking at it. "I've felt better. Geez, that Malik has quite the punch. All I remember is that kiss and then a lot of pain."
"Ha ha!" cried Lock tauntingly. "Ira and Shock, up in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G...."
"Shut up, brat," I hushed him. "This has nothing to do with you." Jack reappeared at that instant with Sally. He was carrying the cloth, and set it upon Ira's forehead. "I see you're awake," he said. "That's good, at least you're not unconsious. Is there any pain?"
A chuckle. "Plently of it."
I sighed. "Oh, this is all my fault..."
"How so?"
"I'm the one who invited you uo here in the first place. Oh, I feel so guilty..."
He smiled, touching my knee softly. "Don't feel that way. It isn't at all your fault. I'm not mad." My heart skipped a beat at his sweet remarks, and I wanted to kiss him again. But not with Jack in the room. His face was grave as he stared down Ira.
"You got quite the beating, you know. I think it would be best if we got you to a hospital."
"That's okay, I can handle it..."
"No, it'd make me feel a lot better. Let me call an ambulance." Ira agreed, and Sally went off to make the call. They came not long after that and put him on a stretcher, carrying him out. I was so afraid, and I still am. Wow, what a long entry. But today has been a long day. I should go to bed now...I'm so upset though. I'm concerned about Ira and Kyrene...what a horrible day.

June 14th
Ira was kept for overnight examination and released this morning. He showed up to Town Hall that day with a nasty-looking black eye and a number of stiches. He tried to smile at me, despite it all. After a bit of chit-chat about Kyrene and the situation the night before, I asked him if my kiss had made him uncomfortable. He just laughed.
"No way!" he cried. "I actually rather enjoyed it. I've never been kissed like that by a girl before." I couldn't believe that. He seemed like such a pro. But he told me that it was true, before asking me if I wanted to go scaring that night. I agreed happily--that's when I saw Malik enter the building, accompanied by his mother (who looked severely pissed off at him). She dragged him over to Jack, who in turn waved over me and Ira. I glanced at him, and he looked back at me. Without a word he took my hand and began heading over towards the small gathering.
"I apologize a million times over for my son's behavior," Mrs. Ghoulman told us. "I will pay for any medical costs of Ira's. But Jack, I was wondering if you had a suitable punishment in mind for my son."
"I do," he replied. "I believe that he should be made to remove and polish every single headstone in the graveyard, by nightfall."
Malik went white. "But there are hundreds of them!" he cried. "That's no fair!"
"I guess you'd better get started," replied his mother. "Come on, let's go."
"Aw, geez...."
Myself, Ira, and Jack burst into laughs as he headed away. "Dumb kid," chuckled my father the King. "Now, if you two will excuse me I have something very important to tend to."
"See ya," we called as he left.
After that we each headed off to our jobs, expecting the rest of the day to flow normally. How wrong we were.
At around 12:30, Jack called everyone together for what he claimed to be be a very important annoucement. It was clear from his face that he hadn't slept well the night before, but he tried to push that aside. Standing on top of the stage now in front of everyone, he began to talk.
"You all know of the birth of my beautiful baby girl, Kyrene," Jack started. "I love her very much, as does my entire family. But last night we were all horrified by some horrible news. I'm afraid that my darling baby has a very rare disease, thoranthiumitis." Shocked gasps. "She will die soon unless the cure is found for her; an even rarer plant the exists only in the human world. And I know what you're thinking; surely he's not planning on going out to find it. But I am. Tommorrow I'm leaving Halloween Town to find the plant for my daughter." More gasps, including one from me. What was he doing? "However, the journey will be difficult," he continued, "and I need 3 volunteers. For the sake of my daughter, please."
I saw Ira's fingers as they dug into his knee, just itching to jump up and volunteer. I just touched his hand, catching his eye. I shook my head, silently pleading to him; I need you here. So he just sat there, still itching away.
In the back row a werewolf stood up. "I'll join you Jack," he said. "I'd be proud to."
A smile. "Thank you, my friend. Two more.
Ira couldn't stand it any longer and jumped up. "I will, Jack," he proclaimed.
"You realize the dangers we will be put through, Ira," my father warned. "Are you sure?"
"Positive," he responded immediately.
"Alright then, you're in."
A gracious nod. "It shall be my honour."
Then I stood up. "I want to come to," I told him. "For my baby sister."
"Shock, you're needed here," he told me. "To perform my duties."
"The mayor can handle it," I replied as I motioned towards the little man. "He's quite capable of doing so, I believe he can."
"So do I, dear, but it's your job as my heir to conduct my duties when I'm not around." I shrugged. "So? I want to come."
A reluctant sigh. "Fine, you can come. I trust the mayor won't mind." He looked over to where I had motioned. A nod from the mayor, who is second in command here in Halloween Town (I only have authority when Jack puts me in charge). "Settled then. We leave tommorrow at noon. I have no idea how long our journey will be, so be prepared for any length of time." He paused. "That's all I have to say about that. I appreciate your offers, and I trust that Halloween will taken care of properlly while I'm gone. If I hear that any of you gave the mayor any prolems, I will be greatly upset. But for now, we will finish the day as if everything were normal. Thank-you, you may return to whatever you were doing."
So the day went on as normal. Tommorrow we leave for the human world, and I'm deathly afraid. I just know something awful's going to happen. But I want to help my little sister, and I want to be with Ira. So I guess I'll go on and try to be brave. For Kyrene.

June 15th
I'm tired, I'm hungry and all I really want to do right now is go home. Why on earth did I ever agree for this godforsaken trip? We'll never be able to find that plant! This planet is so huge, and it could be anywhere! I tried telling this to Jack, but he only smiled and told me to have more faith. "We'll find it," he told me. "I promise you, we'll find it if it's the last thing we do." That wasn't very comforting.
Anyways, we left at noon as promised. According to Jack, this plant is supposed to grow somewhere in Eastern North America, probably in the Canadian Atlanic region. So our first stop is in a small province of Canada named Newfoundland. Apparantly it used to be a popular growing place for the Sweet Nightshade plant, until it started dying out. Before the early Europeans claimed the land as their own, it was a very popular plant. Now it is pretty much extinct, except for one solitary one that remains. Thing is, nobody knows where it is. This is what Jack told us. I couldn't help but question Jack as to how he knows it exists. He went on to tell me a story about it. Says legends, it is a bewitched plant, a spell having been cast long ago upon it. Two powerful wizards were arguing over this last one, wanting it for their enchantments. They had a great battle, but in the end this final Sweet Nightshade plant was placed in a safe hiding spot by the Gods. The legends say that it is somewhere in it's native growing area, but is extremely difficult to find. "Legends?" I asked him. "We're basing our search upon legends? He had an answer to this as well. "How can you call it 'legends', hmm? Shock, I am a legend to these humans. You are a legend, Shock, all of Halloween Town is. But we exist, do we not? So who are we to say that legends do not exist? Who are we to say that this plant doesn't exist, huh? Think about it."
I just rolled my eyes. "Of course Jack, whatever you say."
So anyways, here we are. Me, Jack, the Werewolf, and Ira in this hic little province. We're starting our search in the capital of Newfoundland, St. John's. It's quite the nice place actually, friendly spot. We're starting on the west end, working towards the east. If we can't find it here we'll move on; first on to the nearest city of Mount Pearl and then onwards to the smaller communities around the bay. At the moment we're resting, hidden safely within a small stretch of trees within a small park. I brought my diary of course, poked it in my pocket. It's a clear night, the moon is high in the sky. Me and Ira took a walk earlier in the park. He told me a lot about himself, how he dreams about studying the stars one day. We laid out on the grass for a while, just talking like that. I told him a lot about myself as well--growing up as Oogie Boogie's henchmen, my feelings toiwards my biological parents, and anything I needed to say. These are emotions that I haven't shared with anyone before. I don't know why it was Ira though. There's something about him that's genuinely special. Oh, Jack's approaching. I'll write more later on.

~LATER~
Me and Jack had a nice little talk. He wanted to ask some advice of me (he often does that). He came up to where I was sitting and sat down, asking me what I thought of the whole situation with Kyrene. I told him the truth--that I loved her very much and would do anything for her. He nodded at this, telling me that he loved her more then life itself. When Ezra was taken from him, he said, it was as if life was worth nothing. Now that Kyrene's been born, that empty place in his bones has been filled up. At that he began to cry, sobbing uncontrollably. I was feeling quite out of place as I hugged him, letting him cry on my shoulder.
"I don't know what I'll do if she dies, Shock," he sobbed. "I won't be able to stand it. When Ezra died I attempted suicide, but you and Sally rescued me. I know that if I lose Kyrene though I will try it again, and this time you won't be able to rescue me."
"Jack, don't say that," I warned him. "You'll do no such thing. I don't care if we have to lock you up and I have to take care of Halloween, I won't let any harm come to you."
"And what bloody use will that be?" he screamed. "None! I'd still find a way somehow." He dried his tears. "I don't know why they cursed me life this," he said sadly. "Why they made me so damn depressive and suicidal. You know, I'm perfectly terrified of death, it's my greatest fear. But for most of my life my only wish has been to die."
My heart broke at that, and I held him. "Jack, don't talk like that. I love you very much, and so does Sally. My God, Sally loves you more then anything else! You're her sunshine, her moonlight, everything she treasures in this world. Without you she's nothing."
"I love her too," he said softly. "I've never loved a woman more. Heaven knows I've had hundreds of them in my day, one after the other. True love never managed to find me until Sally came along. I need her so much....it's at times like this when she'll kiss me and all my pains go away simply because she's there. I'll hold her close, run my fingers through her hair..." He stopped and closed his eyes, touching his bald head as if trying to feel her hair between his fingers. Then he re-opened them, smiling softly. "But she's not here now, is she? Right now, you're the only one I can turn to."
"I'm right her whenever you need to talk, Jack," I told him.
"Just listen when I need you to, be ready to pull me back off the edge. You know what I can do at times like this."
A nod. "I know, and I'll make sure nothing becomes of you. You've got my word on it."
We hugged. "Thank-you, daughter." He released me. "We best go to sleep now. We've got a lot of work to do tommorrow."
After that we headed back to where Ira and the werewolf were sitting and talking. Here I am now writing, while everyone else is curled up trying to sleep. Jack is telling me to go to sleep now, so I best do as he says. Good-night.

June 19th
I haven't had the energy to write over the past few days. We've been going everywhere, from one town to the next. This place is unlike any I've ever been... the little outport communities are so small, just a few little shacks on a cliff plus a few little dorys tied up to the barge. These Newfies have such funny acents, it amusing to listen to them. It's like they have their own little language. A popular phrase is "Yes, b'y!". It's so odd!
Anyways, we've barely been given a chance to rest around here. We have no idea as to where that damn flower could be. Jack says it's probably hidden inside a cave of some sort, as that used to be a fairly popular growing place. So that's what we've been doing, searching every litle cavern for something, anything. But we never find nothing. We're walking the entire way, so as not to miss out on anything. We're currently travelling up the Avalon penninsula, the main section of the island. Our next stop will be the Burin penninsula, where we'll stop to take a rest for a day or so. I'm very thankful for that, we need the rest. My feet are killing me, and I know that Ira's are as well. Jack and the werewolf, however, don't seem to mind, walking ahead of us and talking merrily. My father is keeping his spirits reasonably high, despite the emotional anguish he's going through right now. I'm just glad he's feeling better then he was the other night. Sally wouldn't like his being out here if she knew that's how it was affecting him. Of course, he'd never tell her if he knew she'd try and keep him back. She's important to him, but he'd do anything for Kyrene. I'm sure of it.
Anyways, other then that not much else has been going on around here. Sometimes we stop into a small resturaunt along the way, picking up a bite to eat. On these little stops me and Ira slip away for a while, just to talk and be alone. Tonight he kissed me, of his own will. I was surprised at first, but I just shrugged. He's the most wonderful guy, I really love him. And I know he feels the same way. I can tell that my relationship him is going to be a special one. It's not the same way it was with Malik. This time I'm a lot calmer, I have a better idea of what I'm getting myself into. Whatever went wrong with us, I won't let it happen this time. At least, I'll try not to. Anyways, good-night.

June 22nd
We've been on this island an entire week by now. I'm hating it dearly. No showers, no fresh changes of clothes...ew! I took a bath in a nearby stream tonight, but that didn't help much. Not to mention that Ira kept threatening to peek at me.
Anyways, we've arrived at the Burin Penninsula by now, but we haven't found anything. Tommorrow we're going to rest, says Jack. Just sit around all day and relax. Thank goodness, it's about time. I'm exhausted. So here I am now, just taking it easy. Jack and the werewolf are discussing politics and such, while Ira sits beside me. He's being quite the nuisance lately actually, but it's quite fun. Right now he's pretending to read what I'm writing. I know he wouldn't, but he likes teasing me. We already have plans to go exploring the area tommorrow. "We've been walking all this time and what do you want to do?" asked Jack. "Walk! I'll never understand teenagers." It's really more for the chance to get away, though, to be alone and have the chance to simply talk. We haven't gotten to do a whole lot of that yet, but I want to learn more about him. Anyways, I guess that's all for now, a short entry tonight. I'll write tommorrow.

June 23rd
What a great day! Me and Ira went on our hike, and it was amazing. Some of the scenery is absolutely amazing. At one point we were standing right next to the ocean. We dabbled in it together; then he splashed me. Ira really is wonderful though. Better then Malik ever was. Sometimes he'll stop to take my hand, other times give me a gentle kiss. We had a wonderful time talking. I told him so much, and he really helped me discover more about myself. Oh, this is nothing like the relationship I had going with Malik. It's better! I really love him, and appreciate him for who he is. Not just for the fact that he's so amazingly good looking! But we spent the entire day just taking and wandering about, laughing and having fun. At one point we found this cliff looking over the ocean. He stopped and touched my shoulder, asking me what I heard. I listened. "Nothing," I said. "Just the wind and the waves on the shore." He smiled back at me, saying that was exactly what he wanted me to pay attention to. The stillness, the peace...and he was right. It was beautiful, breathtaking. What an amazing place this would be to live in, I told him. To live with that view everyday would be awesome. He just nodded, taking my hand and giving it a gentle kiss. He then wrapped an am around my shoulder and we continued along on our way, together. Oh, I know he must really love me! I can see it in his eyes, the way he feels. He acts so sweet towards me, he's never rough or anything. His kisses are wonderful, soft and tender. Malik, however, wasn't so shy. He didn't really give a damn. I really used to like him at one point, thought he was so wonderful. But I was lying to myself. Didn't see him for who he really was until the end. But he's gone now, and I'm glad. Thank goodness that he is! Imagine marrying someone like that. Anyways, I'd best get to sleep now. Good night!

June 24th
At last, a definate lead towards where our missing flower might be! It came to Jack in a dream, you might say. He woke up this morning all excited, saying that he knew where to go next. A place on the northern-most tip of the province called Lance Aux Meadows. According to the dream, this place is actually the reconstructed site of a former viking inhabitation. And the legend asbout the two wizards, supposedly, is all wrong. The dream told him that it was actually the norsemen who implanted the plant where it was, for reasons unknown. They planted it in a small cave, perhaps hoping that it would spread to more places around the tiny island. But it never did. I just made a face at these wild claims, asking if he was totally sure about this. He nodded, telling me that he was positive. I just shrugged. After all, who am I to question the Pumpkin King? Kind of difficult to believe that it 'came to him in a dream', but oh well. What he says goes. So we got up here by hitching rides, the only way possible. Of course, we all had to wear these sweaters with hoods. We have to wear them whenever we go out in public. Well, except for Ira. He's pretty normal looking. The werewolf has to wear gloves as well, though. Jack just pokes his hands in his pockets (the mortals might freak if they see that he's a skeleton). Now we have to look for a cave of some kind, probably within a small wood. I wonder how long it will take to find that...

June 25th
Omigod, at last it's finally happened! We have it! The sweet nightshade! We're finally home, and everything will be alright! Ira found it, and by total accident. It was early morning, the rest of us were still asleep yet. He said that he had been awake for quite some time already, just thinking. Said he wanted to talk a walk around. It was while he was wandering that he found something quite bizarre; a huge pile of rocks, seemingly blocking off a large entranceway of some kind. He knew it had to be it, and ran back to tell us. He shook Jack and woke him up, crying out his discovery happily. It didn't take long to get the King up after that, believe me. He jumped from his sleeping place quickly, rousing me and the werewolf from our slumber. Still chasing away sleep we followed Ira to the supposed cave. Indeed, said Jack, something was behind there. We'd have to move the rocks. Course, neither of us could lift them; they were much too heavy! That's where the wereolf stepped in; grabbing an armful of rocks he tossed them away, as if they were pebbles. We stood amazed as he moved them, until we had a space large enough for us all to fit through. "Wow," said Jack with amazement. "That's amazing. You're a miracle worker!" The werewolf smiled proudly as we headed inside. It was dark inside, and we didn't have a light. But that didn't stop us; venturing into the cave we felt our way along, until we saw a faint glimmer of light coming from up ahead. Ira pointed it out and Jack nodded, now more excited then ever. "This is," he breathed. "I know this is it..." The light grew brighter and brighter, until it illuminated the cave. We were now standing before the entrace to another cavern, from whicc the light was radiating. Jack took a deep breath; then, we stepped inside. There, before us and embedded into the ground, was the Sweet Nightshade! My father let out a cry for joy as he ran towards it, plucking it from the earth. "Ira my dear boy, you've found it!" he cried. "At last, we've got it, and now we can go back home to our family. Hurry, we mustn't waste a moment. Back to Halloween Town at once!" We didn't waste a moment; we left the cave and headed bak to the camp, packing up our stuff as we headed out to hitch a ride into the nearest town. We had to get this to Kyrene, and quickly.
It didn't take long for to get to the nearest town; St. Anthony. We thanked the driver of the automobile, who had dropped us off at the nearest graveyard. Searching now for a decent mausoleum we found one, dashing inside and heading back for Halloween. Oh, I can't explain the joy I felt upon seeing it once again! Upon stepping foot into the graveyard, I couldn't help but utter a little sob for joy. Ira just smiled as he took my arm, and we followed Jack and the werewolf into town. "I can't believe it," I told him. "At last we're home, and everything's going to be alright!" He just stopped for a moment, and I did as well. He ran a hand through my hair as he held me. Then he gave me a kiss, long and sweet. He smiled as he released me. "Congratulations, princess," he said when it was over. "We're home." I grinnned as he wrapped his arm around my shoulder, and we continued along on our way.
It wasn't long before we reached the main gates. Jack beamed with happiness as we made our way inside, heading directly for our mansion overlooking Halloweentown. "We're almost home," he said with amazement. "Then we can administer the plant to Kyrene and everything will be alright again." He looked back at us all, me, Ira, and the werewolf. "Thank-you for helping you three. Ira, had it not been for you we never would have found it. Werewolf, we'd never have accessed it. And Shock-" he paused here, smiling. "You were my support. Thank-you all." He looked up towards the house; we were now here. "Well, here we go." He led us inside, and we all embraced the smell of frying rat legs--supper. "SALLY!" he cried happily. "Sally, we're home! Everything's going to be alright!" She came running out from the kitchen, tears in her eyes.
"JACK!" she cried as she literally lept into his arms. "Oh my God, thank goodness you're back! Kyrene is very sick, she needs the cure now."
He kissed her. "Yes, I know. We must boil it up, and then administer it to her by needle. Sh mightn't enjoy it, but it's all we can do."
She just nodded, taking the plant from him and dashing to where the had been cooking. "Yes, I've already got some water on the stove. Barrel! Lock! They're back!" I could hear the sounds of them both running down the stairs. They ran and gave Jack a hug, laughhing happily. "You're home!" cried Barrel. "And you're alright!"
A nod. "Yes, but I must go find Kyrene. We'll talk later, I promise." They nodded, letting him go up to his bedroom where my baby sister lay. They turned to me and hugged me instead, and I could feel their happy tears against my cheek.
"I'm glad to be back," I told them. "How've ya been?"
Lock wiped a tear away. "Worried," he said. "Kyrene's in treal bad shape sis. If this doesn't work, she'll surely die."
"Sally hasn't been much better," Barrel confided in a whisper. "Crying all day, sitting next to the crib. I'm glad you're all back safe and sound."
No sooner had he said that, then Sally burst from the kitchen. She carried the bot of boiled sweet nightshade in one hand, nodding down at them. "Alright, we're ready," she said. "C'mon, let's get this to Jack.
He accepted it gratefully when he recieved it. Then grabbing a needle from a dresser drawer he filled it with the green liquid, turning to the crib. Peering inside, I couldn't help but gasp. My god, how awful she looked! Deathly pale and sickly-looking. I clung a little harder onto Ira. Jack just took Kyrene's small arm, holding it gently as he injected the liquid into her. Briefly she tensed up, but then relaxed. "That's done then," he said. "No all we've got to do is wait."
We spent the evening doing just that. Sitting around, talking and eating--and waiting. So far, she hasn't woken up. But we haven't lost hope yet. This will work--I know it. We just have to keep our faith. Anyways, I'm just glad that we're home. I'll write tommorrow night for sure. Until then.

June 26th
Kyrene's much better today. She's about two weeks old by now, and so adorable!!! Jack has been cuddling her all evening, when not with Sally. I meanwhile sat on the front porch with Ira, relaxing in his arms. We talked about all sorts of things--the stars, God, our relationship--everything. Oh, he's so wonderful! He's so perfect and wonderful...is this what they call love? I can talk so easily with him, I find it so natural when I'm in his arms. It was getting quite chilly out there after a little while, and he let me wear his favourite black sweater. I settled back into his arms, warm now. Oh, what a perfect day it's been! All of Halloweentown cheered when the four of us stepped inside Town Hall today, but Jack merely held up a hand. "This is no time for celebrating," he said. "We must continue on with the holiday." Ira just smiled modestly as people photographed him. I took his arm as I bragged about the things he had done. His face grew beat red when a little girl asked for an autograph. I couldn't help but laugh at him. My Ira, he's so wonderful! The feelings I feel for him are so true, so genuine--I know that this time, things will be a lot different.

June 27th
My tears stain the paper as I write, angry sobs escaping my throat. I can't believe that this is happening to me! Ira's gone, gone for good. He's gone to Christmas Town...his parents apparantly both have jobs there now. Oh, I'm so upset! He told me this evening, in a brief meeting. He knocked upon the door at around 7 PM, and I answered it. "Oh hi," I said with a smile. "Come in."
He shook his head. "I can't. Shock, I have to talk with you."
I lost my smile. "What do you mean?"
"I'm sorry, I had no choice...we're moving to Christmas Town, me and my family. My folks are going to be working there. I begged them no, but we're leaving immediately, as soon as I return home."
Tears clouded my vision. "No, you can't do this to me, not when I already care so much about you. Ira, you can't do this to me, I love you!!"
He took my hands. "I had no part in the decision. I'm sorry."
I began to cry. "Please, say it isn't true, tell me that it's just a bad dream."
"I can't," he replied sadly. He pulled me towards him, kissing me softly. My entire body trembled at his touch. He touched my cheek softly, smiling sadly. "I have to go now," he told me as he handed me small square of paper. "I wrote this note for you...please read it. I wish I had more time, but I can't change the way things happen." He released me. "I'll miss you, Shock." He turned and began to make his way down the stairs.
"Ira, I sobbed. "Ira, come back..." He stopped, looking back at me. He then came back, giving me one last kiss. It was wonderful, yet horribly sad. I closed my eyes as we remained there, praying that the moment would never end. But sadly it did, and I tried in vain with my kisses to keep him with me.
"Until we meet again, my love," he told me. With that he turned and left for the last time, leaving me standing there without him. "Ira," I said quietly. "Ira, no." Tears fell down my cheeks. "Ira, come back!" He didn't look at me. "Ira, please! Ira!" No reply. "IRA!!!!" I screamed. "Please, come back!" But it didn't do any good. My shouting did nothing; he kept walking, looking at the ground. He was soon gone, leaving me broken-hearted. I collapsed to my knees, totally lost and confused. Jack came out to see what the shouting was all about. He sat beside me, one hand on my shoulder. "Darling, what's wrong?" he asked. "You can tell me."
I sobbed. "Ira...he's moving, Jack. He's going away, this evening. Oh my God..." Fresh tears spilled down my face. He just hugged me. "Shh, it's going to be alright. I'm here with you."
I don't know how long we sat there, just hugging each other like that. After what seemed like forever I asked him to please take me up to my bedroom. He nodded, scooping me up into his arms. He carried me up the stairs and into my room, laying me on my bed. "Are you going to be alright?" he asked me.
"I don't know," I confessed. "I will be. Thank-you."
A smile. "Don't worry about it." He headed towards the door. "I'll check up on you later."
"Thanks." He left me then, and I pulled out the letter. I've pasted it in here:

My Dearest Shock,
I deeply apologize for my departure. It wasn't my choice, I swear it. If I could have it my way, I'd stay there with you. But alas, it is not to be. I don't understand why we're jumping up and leaving so soon! They didn't even give me any warning! Oh I hate this! I hate my parents and I hate leaving you. Shock, you must know how much I love and care about you. You mean so much to me...never will another girl mean as much to me as you do. I'll always have a place in my heart for you, a bit that I'll leave open just for you. I know that we'll meet again one day, and when we do we'll both be happy once again. But until then, I must leave you only with this and a few tears. Until we meet again.
Love always,
Ira McVampson

I screamed with fury as I threw his note aside, leaping up and punching a wall. I still can't believe it. How could he do this to me? Just leave me like this? Oh, I never knew how much he meant to me until I lost him! Anyways, I'll end this entry. Until tommrrow night.

June 28th
I'm feeling slightly better today. I sat down and had a nice long talk with Jack. He let me just cry on his shoulder, tell him how much I loved Ira and miss him. He was extremely supportive of me, just remained there and let me sob. He's so good like that, he's always there when I need him. I'm so glad that we moved in with him, me and my brothers. Lock and Barrel think the world of him, I know, and he treats us all as if we were his own kids. He and Sally are like parents to me, the mother and father we never had. I love them both so much.
But anyways, he just sat there with me, one arm around my shoulder and the other holding my hand. I have no idea how long I cried, but it was for quite some time. I was extremely upset over Ira, and I still am. He was a wonderful guy, I loved about him so much...I had no idea how much he truly meant to me. I told this to Jack, who only smiled at me encouragingly. "We've all experienced our first heartbreaks," he said. "Even me. But you'll overcome this and get on with your life. You might not think so now, but you will. Trust me." Yes, Jack is simply the greatest. When I was little, I used to have this huge crush on him. I envied Sally so much whern she married him. but they deserve each other, they really do. The love they share is the fairy tale kind, where the princess finds her prince and they all live happily ever after. But in this case, she found a King! And now here I am myself, a royal daughter. Just imagine it, me--the heir to the throne! One day I shall rule over Halloween Town, just like Jack does. And perhaps one day I shall meet Ira again, perhaps we'll eventually be re-united. Who knows? Only time can tell I suppose. But until then I must continue on with my life, push aside the heartache and continue on. Halloween is depending on me, and I can't let them down. For myself, for Jack, and for Ira.

Yours truly,

Shock Skellington