How Can I Go On?

by Princessofpink5/Jesusfreak777

**This is the most complete version of the fanfic that can be found on the Internet. Many thanks to the people on GAFF who managed to save a great majority of the original fanfic - their contributions aided greatly in the reconstruction of this fanfic to it's current near-complete status. Give them a round of applause.

And, without further ado:**

***CHAPTER 1***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

It was the most beautiful and happy day for 16-year-old Serena Campbell. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, and Serena's boyfriend of (now) 1 year was taking her out to a fancy restaurant to celebrate their 1st anniversary. It was 2:00 in the afternoon and Serena's boyfriend, Diamond, wasn't picking her up until 6:00 that evening, but Serena began getting ready, anyway. After having a small snack, Serena locked herself in her room and began going through her entire wardrobe. After searching through every formal dress she owned, Serena finally decided on her best dress. It was a long, light pink, sparkling dress with spaghetti straps. Serena also decided to wear her white, shimmering, elbow-length gloves and light pink sandals. It took Serena nearly 3 ? hours, but she was finally ready. She had painted both her fingernails and her toenails and had put on make-up. Serena had also put her hair into her usual hairstyle (the spaghetti-and-meatball look, as I like to call it.). Serena sat impatiently in her room, waiting for the doorbell to ring. Her parents and little brother, Sammy, and gone camping for a week so Serena was alone. At 6:15pm, Diamond still hadn't arrived. Serena thought that he was maybe having car trouble. At 6:30, Diamond still hadn't come. Finally, at 7:00pm, Serena decided to phone Diamond to find out why he was so late. The phone rang three times before Diamond's younger sister, Emerald, answered.

"Hello?" she said.

"Hello, is Diamond there?" Serena asked.

"One moment," Emerald said. About 30 seconds later, Diamond came on the line.

"Hello?" he said.

"Diamond, it's Serena. Aren't you coming to pick me up?" Serena said.

"Oh, I guess I forgot to phone you this afternoon and tell you," Diamond said.

"Tell me what?" Serena asked.

"Tell you that I don't want to go out with you anymore. I've found someone else," Diamond said.

"Diamond, why? How could you do this to me?" Serena said. "I love you so much."

"I'm sorry, Serena, but I just don't love you anymore," Diamond said. "I have to go. My new girlfriend's here and she's waiting for me."

"But, Diamond...," Serena started to say. She never got a chance to finish. Diamond had hung up, leaving a broken-hearted Serena on the other end. Serena hung up her receiver and began to cry. She cried until her mascara and eyeliner was smeared all over her face. How could Diamond have done this to her? She loved him with all her heart and she thought that he loved her. How could she go on without Diamond in her life?

I guess I was wrong about me not posting anymore stories. I'm sorry this chapter was so short. I'll try to make the next one longer. Oh, by the way, I won't be continuing any of my other stories so if anyone wants to do sequels or more chapters to the unfinished ones, you have my full permission. My new nickname is Princess of Pink 5. The old one was Princess Tristy, just in case any of you get confused. Well, I hope you enjoy this story and I look forward to receiving your reviews. Princess of Pink 5(a.k.a. Princess Tristy)

***CHAPTER 2***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

After changing out of her dress and into some sweatpants and a T-shirt, Serena washed her face of all the smeared make-up. The whole time she did this, she wondered, 'How could Diamond have done this to me? I thought he loved me.' The more Serena thought about it, the more she felt the pain. Finally, at around 9:00pm, Serena could stand it no longer. She ran out of the house and to the pond in the park. Serena had intense thoughts of suicide. If Diamond wasn't her true love, Serena could not go on...or so she thought. Serena came to the pond and was about to dive in when she heard a voice inside her.

"Don't do it, Serena. You don't have to do this," the voice said. "There is something better out there for you. You don't have to kill yourself." Somehow, the voice gave Serena new hope. She walked out of the ankle-deep water and sat on a bench. She sat that there, wondering what the voice was and what it meant. Well, she sort of knew what it meant. As Serena sat there, staring at the starry sky, a guy about 4 years older than Serena walked up to her.

"Excuse me, may I sit here?" he asked.

"Oh, sure," Serena said and moved over.

"My name's Darien. Darien Shields," the guy said and held out his hand.

"I'm Serena Campbell," Serena said and shook Darien's hand. "What brings you to the park at this time of night?"

"I could ask you the same question, but I won't," Darien said. "I sometimes need a little time to get out of my apartment and into the wide open space of God's creation."

"God? Who's He?" Serena asked, who had never been to church in her life.

"God is the highest power of this universe. He created Heaven, the Earth and everything in it," Darien said. "He created you and me and everyone else on this planet."

"Where is He?" Serena asked.

"He's in Heaven. That's where all of Creation began," Darien said. "Haven't you ever wondered how the Earth got started?"

"No. I always thought that it was just a massive ball of fire that developed over time," Serena said.

"Well, that's not true. And there is proof that God exists," Darien said and handed Serena his Bible.

"What's this?" Serena asked.

"It's a Bible. It tells the story of how God created Heaven and Earth and of how His Son, Jesus Christ, died to free us from sin," Darien said. "Sin is basically anything that contradicts with God's Word."

"I never really knew the difference between good and bad except what my parents told me. And even then, I didn't really pay much attention," Serena said.

"Well, you should. It could mean the difference between an eternity in Heaven with God and Jesus or an eternity in hell with Satan torturing you every moment," Darien said. "And loving God and Jesus can make you a better person with a much happier life." Suddenly, a new feeling rushed through Serena.

"Where can I learn more about God and Jesus?" Serena asked.

"Oh, I'll give you the address of my church," Darien said as he began writing something on a piece of paper. "We have worship services every Sunday morning at 10:30. Also, if you need to talk to God, you can pray to Him anytime you like."

"Okay. Thanks," Serena said. "But, I'd better get home now. Bye."

"Bye. And may God be with you," Darien said. As Serena walked off, she thought about what Darien had said to her. She also thought about the voice she'd heard. Suddenly, Serena realized that the voice was God. God was telling her not to kill herself and then He had sent Darien to help her get in touch with Him. Serena felt happier already. As soon as she was home, Serena sat on her bed and prayed.

"Dear God, thank you saving my life. I know, from what Darien has told me, that there is a better life for me. I thank you for sending him to help me and I hope to be in church on Sunday. Amen," Serena said. That day was Friday. All day Saturday, Serena anticipated going to church the next day. When the sun rose on Sunday morning, Serena was awake and eager to learn more about God.

***CHAPTER 3***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

As Serena climbed out of bed on Sunday morning, she felt a lot happier than she'd been the day before. After eating breakfast, Serena took a shower and chose a suitable outfit for church. It was 10:00am before Serena was ready. Darien's church wasn't that far from her house so she decided to walk. When Serena saw the building, Serena was amazed. It was made of brick and had many beautiful flowers around it. Serena was hesitant at first, but she finally gathered all her courage and walked past the many people on the lawn and into the building. A middle-aged man wearing a suit was standing by the door when Serena walked in.

"Hello. I've never seen you here before," he said.

"Oh, this is my first time. I'm Serena Campbell," Serena said and held out her hand.

"I'm Pastor Maxwell Bryant. I'm very pleased you decided to join us, Miss Campbell," the man said.

"And, I'm pleased that I could come," Serena said. "Now, has Darien Shields arrived yet?"

"Yes, he has," Pastor Bryant replied. "I believe he's already found a seat in the middle somewhere."

"Thank you," Serena said and walked into the sanctuary. Sure enough, she found Darien sitting in the middle section of the church. There were also four girls and three other guys sitting with him.

"Serena! Glad you could make it," Darien said when he saw Serena.

"I'm glad I could come," Serena said. "May I sit here?"

"Of course," Darien said. "May I introduce some of my friends? This is Amy, Lita, Raye, Mina, Andrew, Ken, and Chad."

"Hi. It's nice to meet you all," Serena said. Lita was the tallest of the girls. She had her brown hair in a high ponytail. Mina was the shortest. Her long, bleach-blonde hair rolled down her back with the exception of the red bow at the back of her head. Amy was the next tallest after Lita. She had short, bluish-black hair. Raye was the next shortest after Mina. Raye's long, jet black hair was in the same form as Mina's except she didn't have a bow. Andrew had orange-blonde hair, Chad had shoulder length, chestnut brown hair, and Ken also had chestnut brown hair, only it was short. Darien, of course, had short, jet black hair.

"Welcome, Serena," the group said.

"Thank you," Serena said. A short while later, Pastor Bryant came to the pulpit and began the service. There was some singing, some Bible reading (which Darien let Serena share his Bible for), and the sermon. Serena paid very close attention to the sermon. It seemed to be formulated just around her experiences. The sermon talked about how you can feel so low and so down in the dumps that you feel it isn't worth it to go on. The sermon also said that God can change all that. God could make you a happier person, just don't give up. Keep praying and worshipping God and eventually, He will come through.

Once the service was over, Pastor Bryant stood at the doors again to shake the hands of the congregation as they left the building.

"It was a wonderful service, Pastor," Serena said. "It felt like that sermon was written especially for me."

"Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it, my dear," Pastor Bryant said. "Be sure to come back next Sunday." Serena assured him that she'd be there. Serena walked out of the building and was about to turn for home when she heard Darien calling her.

"Serena, we're going out for brunch. Do you want to come with us?" Darien asked.

"I'd love to," Serena said. As she climbed into Darien's car, along with Amy, Mina, and Andrew, Serena felt a sense of belonging. She felt that this was where she belonged and that God was going to come through for her. As the two cars (Darien's plus Chad's) drove off, Serena had many a conversation with Darien, Amy, Mina, and Andrew. Serena instantly became friends with all of them. For the first time in her life, Serena felt truly happy.

***CHAPTER 4***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

The whole group went to a small restaurant for Sunday brunch. Serena really enjoyed it. She had great conversations with each one of her new friends. Serena also learned that Amy's boyfriend, Greg, was not in church that morning because he was sick with the flu. Everyone prayed that he would recover soon. During the meal, Darien informed Serena that the group got together every Wednesday for a few hours of Bible study. Serena said that she'd be glad to join them. She also learned that Amy, Raye, Lita, Mina, Greg, and Ken went to the same high school as Serena.

"That's funny. I've never seen you there before," Serena said.

"That sometimes happens. People don't notice us very much," Lita said. The only ones of the group who weren't in high school were Andrew, Chad, and Darien. Raye lived on her own in a small, one-bedroom apartment and Chad lived in her building, also in a one-bedroom apartment. That was how the two of them had met. Chad and just moved into the building and didn't know how to work the coin-operated laundry machines in the basement. Raye had showed him how. Andrew worked at an arcade in downtown Tokyo and Darien was in his sophomore year in college. The group stayed there for almost 2 hours. Around 1:30pm, Serena announced that she must be going home as her parents and little brother would be returning that afternoon.

"Yes, I think it's time we all went home," Amy said. The 9 people filed into the two vehicles outside (Darien, Serena, Amy, Mina, and Andrew in Darien's car and Chad, Raye, Lita, and Ken in Chad's car.) and drove off. Darien dropped Serena off first.

"I'll call you and let you know what time Bible study is this week," Darien said.

"Okay. Thank you," Serena said and walked up the front path and into her house. When Serena entered the house, her parents were standing in the doorway.

"Where were you, young lady?" her father, Kenji, asked.

"I was at church, Dad," Serena said.

"Church? Why on Earth for?" Serena's mother, Ikuku, asked.

"Because I wanted to," Serena said. "I was at the park last night and I met this wonderful man named Darien. He gave me the address of his church and I decided to go.

"What does Diamond think of this Darien?" Ikuku asked.

"Diamond broke up with me last night. He said he had found someone else," Serena said.

"Oh, Serena. He dumped you on your anniversary? I'm sorry," Ikuku said as she hugged her daughter.

"Don't be sorry, Mom," Serena said. "If Diamond's not the one for me then so be it."

"Why did you go to the park?" Kenji asked. Serena then sat her parents down and told them all about the previous night.

"Well, don't get that idea into your head again, young lady!" Kenji yelled. "You've got too much to live for."

"Well, now I do, Dad. I've got great new friends who actually care, despite the fact that they barely know me," Serena said. "They even invited me to their weekly Bible study on Wednesday nights."

"Just keep up with your regular school work and I won't have a problem with it," Kenji said.

"Yes, Dad. I promise," Serena said. She then climbed the stairs to her room. Once inside, Serena closed the door and changed into some lounging clothes. She then sat on her bed and began to read the Bible that Pastor Bryant had given her at the end of the day's service. Serena became so absorbed in the teachings and stories of the Bible that she almost didn't hear Ikuku calling her for supper. Serena put a bookmark in the Bible and walked downstairs and into the dining room. The family had a lively conversation about the camping trip. Sammy had almost peed his pants when ran into a bear a couple of days into the trip. Luckily, the park ranger had come to the rescue. After supper, Serena helped her mom clear the table and wash the dishes. Afterwards, Serena sat in her room and read her Bible. That night, Serena fell asleep even happier than ever.

I know the story may seem a little boring and bland at first, but I have an idea that's going to bust it right out of that rut. Unfortunately, it won't come until later in the story. So, if you have any ideas about how the story could be more exciting, please let me know in your reviews. Princess of Pink 5

***CHAPTER 5***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

On Monday morning, the sun shone brighter than ever. Serena bounded out of bed, put on her housecoat and slippers, and ran down the stairs and into the kitchen for breakfast. Serena ate her Rice Krispies in silence and then ran back up the stairs and into her room. After putting on a pair of comfy jeans and a pink T-shirt, Serena put on her shoes, grabbed her backpack, and ran out the door. Since the school was only a few blocks away, Serena walked. The starting bell wouldn't be ringing for another 15 minutes so Serena sat down on one of the wooden benches in front of the building and began to read her Bible. Again, Serena was so absorbed in what she was reading that she didn't hear Amy walking up to her.

"Hi, Serena," Amy said, nearly scaring the daylights out of Serena.

"Geez! You scared me," Serena said.

"Sorry. How long have you been sitting here?" Amy asked.

"About 10-15 minutes, I think," Serena replied. At that moment, the bell rang.

"Well, I guess we should go to out classes now. I'll see you at lunch. We usually sit at the table in the far corner by the microwave," Amy said. By 'we' she meant herself, Greg, Ken, Lita, Raye, and Mina.

"Okay. I'll see you then," Serena said.

Serena was somewhat afraid to go into the building in fear of seeing Diamond with his new girlfriend, but her newfound faith gave her the strength she needed. Serena managed to get through the whole morning without seeing Diamond, but at lunch time, as she was in line to buy her lunch, Serena spotted Diamond sitting at his usual table. There was no girl with him so that was of some comfort to Serena. After purchasing her sandwich, apple, and milk, Serena walked over the table where her new friends were sitting.

"Hi, everyone," Serena said as she sat down.

"Hi, Serena. How was your morning?" Mina asked.

"It was fine. I managed to get through it without running into my ex," Serena said. "But, then I saw him sitting at his usual table."

"Don't worry. You'll get over him soon enough. Just pray for strength," Greg said. After Greg's words, the group bowed their head to say grace. After the prayer, everyone began opening paper bags and taking the plastic wrap off their sandwiches. Just as Serena was about to bite into her ham and cheese sandwich, a girl with shiny red hair walked up to them.

"Hello. You must be Serena," the girl said to Serena.

"Yes, I am. And you are?" Serena asked with a puzzled look on her face.

"Oh, my name is Beryl. Diamond told me about you. It's a shame that he dumped you, but who can blame him," the girl said.

"Look, you can tell Diamond that he can do whatever he wants. All I want to do is get over him and get on with my life," Serena said.

"Well, you certainly won't get on with any life if you hang out with this bunch of Bible-hugging morons," Beryl said.

"Beryl, just leave Serena alone. She's having a hard enough time right now," Raye said.

"Fine. But just remember that you won't get anywhere in life by sitting around reading a stupid book and babbling to the air around you," Beryl said and walked off.

"Don't let her bother you, Serena," Ken said. "She's one of those people who think they don't need God in their lives."

"All we can do right now is pray," Lita said. With that, the group's conversation turned to school work and their social lives. After school, Serena walked straight home. After being home for about an hour, Serena received a phone call from Darien. He told her that Bible study was going to be at 7:30 on Wednesday night at Raye's temple. Serena agreed to be there and began looking forward to the evening with great anticipation.

***CHAPTER 6***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

At 7:25 pm that Wednesday, Serena walked up the front path of Raye's apartment building. She rang the buzzer and opened the door when Raye let her in. Everyone else was already there. Serena made it a point to be earlier from now on so that her friends wouldn't have to wait. On the coffee table was a plate of chocolate chip cookies and 10 glasses of milk.

"Nice that you could make it, Serena," Raye said.

"Thank you. I hope that I haven't kept you waiting for long," Serena said.

"Oh, no. Greg and I just arrived not even 5 minutes ago," Amy said.

"Well, that's good to know," Serena said.

"Anyone have anything in particular to discuss tonight?" Lita asked.

"Well, I think we should read a passage in 1 Corinthians for Serena," Raye said, taking her Bible on her lap. "There's one particular passage that would benefit her greatly right now."

"Would that be 1 Corinthians 13:4-10?" Mina asked.

"Yes, that's the one," Raye said and opened her Bible. "'1 Corinthians 13:4-10:Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.'"

"What does it mean?" Serena asked.

"It means that Diamond couldn't have really loved you because he ended your relationship. This passage says that love always perseveres and that it never fails," Raye said.

"I heard it and I understand it more now, but it still hurts," Serena said.

"I know how you feel," Mina said. "I felt the same way when I broke up with my first boyfriend, Michael. We met at a party and he asked me out there. The first few months were great, but then things started to change. Michael, all of a sudden, had to be with me every second he could and he had to know where I was every minute of every day. Like an idiot, I stayed with him, thinking that this was just temporary. I was wrong. He began making excuses why he couldn't drive me home from school anymore. He didn't want to be with me when I wanted, but he always had to control me. During a school break, I went to visit my cousin in England. She took me to church on Sunday and the pastor's sermon was about the same passage that Raye just read. I talked with the pastor after the service for a short while and I talked to my cousin later that day. When I came back to Tokyo, there were 15 or 16 messages from Michael on my answering machine. I didn't even listen to them. I pushed the delete button and then picked up the phone to call Michael. He wasn't at home so I phoned his cell. He was at his buddy's place so he was quite ticked off. He started yelling at me for not returning any of his calls. I cut him off and told him it was over. Despite the fact that I'm the one who ended the relationship, it still hurt a lot. I asked Jesus into my heart that night and started going to church every Sunday. I met Andrew a few weeks later and we became close friends. He asked me to be his steady girlfriend about 2 years later."

"Thanks for the encouragement, Mina. Now, if you'll give me a minute, there's something that I need to take care of," Serena said and bowed her head. "Lord Jesus, I need You now as I have during my entire life. Please come into my heart and be with me constantly, making me a better person in You. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen."

"Bravo, Serena," Darien said. The group then bowed their heads in another word of prayer for their friend, Serena. The 10 friends discussed a few more verses and their meanings until around 9:30pm.

"I'm sorry, but I have to get going. I've got a 10:00 curfew," Serena said.

"I'll give you a ride so you won't be late," Darien said as he reached for his car keys.

"Thank you," Serena said. "See you in school tomorrow."

"Bye, Serena," her friends said.

***CHAPTER 7***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

Over the next few weeks, Serena's faith seemed to grow more and more. She received the usual remarks from her old group of friends all the time. And, every time Diamond and Beryl walked by Serena's locker, Beryl always took hold of Diamond's arm and said something to try and make Serena jealous. It worked for the most part, but then Serena realized that Diamond was a jerk and Beryl was just as bad as he was. Also, Serena had begun to feel closer to Darien than ever before. The two of them were often walking through the park on a Saturday afternoon or in the arcade after school. Don't get me wrong. Serena still enjoyed spending time with her friends

It was around the late-March when things at Emiko Maya High School started happening. They were not bad happenings nor were they good. They were great! It was prom season! The committee that had been formed just after the Christmas break sprung into action. Posters started appearing all over the school. Wherever there was a small group of girls standing or sitting together, you could just bet that they were talking about the prom. Last year, the prom had been the highlight of the year for Serena because she had Diamond to go with. Now, Diamond would be going with Beryl. Serena was nearly heartbroken, though she never said anything. The night for the prom was set for Saturday, April 23rd. By the 4th, Amy, Raye, Lita, and Mina had their dates secured. They all had steady boyfriends so they didn't have to worry. You might think that a group of Christian friends wouldn't go to a big school event like this one, but this group was a little different. They went to football games and dances just like everyone else only they prayed for the people that they saw. You know, people who were dressed too immodestly, people who cursed, that sort of thing. Serena wanted to go with her friends, but she didn't have a date and even they knew that it was pointless to go to the prom without a date. One day, at lunch, Amy gave Serena a suggestion.

"Serena, why don't you ask Darien to go to the prom with you?" she said. Serena looked somewhat shocked by this.

"I don't know. I mean, Darien and are friends and I don't want him to feel uncomfortable about me asking him out," Serena said.

"I don't think Darien will feel uncomfortable if you ask him," Greg said. "He might feel uncomfortable if some other girl he didn't know asked him."

"Greg's right. You're Darien's friend and that's the main reason he won't feel uncomfortable," Mina said.

"Thanks for the advice, you guys," Serena said. "Now, all I have to do is wait for an opportunity and work up the courage to ask him."

Serena got her opportunity that Saturday when she and Darien were taking a walk through the park.

"God bless this beautiful day," Serena said as she titled her head towards the sky and breathed in all of the fresh air that her lungs could hold.

"You're so right, Serena," Darien said. "It's the perfect day to be outside."

"I'm glad we could be here today. And to think that I almost blew this gorgeous day off to play video games," Serena said.

"You should never let video games keep you from the beautiful things in the outside world," Darien said. The two of them sat on a wooden bench near the fountain a few minutes later.

"Darien, could I ask you something?" Serena said, feeling nervous all of a sudden.

"Sure. What is it?" Darien asked.

"Well, you know that the spring prom at Emiko Maya is in two weeks, right?" Serena said.

"How could I forget?" Darien said. "Mina came into the arcade after school yesterday and that's almost all she could talk about."

"Well, I wanted to go, but I don't have anyone to go with, so I'm asking if you'll go with me," Serena said.

"You mean, like a date?" Darien asked, somewhat surprised.

"Well, no, not really. We would go as friends," Serena said.

"Sure, I'll go," Darien said. "I'll even pay for the tickets."

"Darien, I can't let you do that," Serena said. "It's my prom."

"Well, than, let's each pay for our own," Darien suggested. Serena agreed. Later that night, Serena phoned Amy to tell her that her suggestion has worked.

"That's great, Serena," Amy said. "We're all sleeping over at Lita's place the night before so we can all get ready together. Would you like to join us?"

"I'd love to," Serena said. "I wouldn't dream of not getting ready for the biggest social event of the season without you guys."

"Great. Well, I've got to go now, but I'll see you in church tomorrow," Amy said.

"See you tomorrow. Bye," Serena said and hung up. Serena immediately knelt beside her bed and prayed.

"Dear Lord Jesus, thank you so much for these friends that I have. I'm also thankful that Darien agreed to come to the prom with me. But I ask you, Lord, to please help me to dress appropriately and to not make Darien feel uncomfortable. And help me to keep myself focused on not just the prom, but on You as well. I pray these things in Your name. Amen," Serena prayed. After the prayer, Serena read her Bible until it was time to go to sleep.

***CHAPTER 8***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

Serena woke early on Sunday morning. Her parents and little brother were still sleeping so Serena was as quiet as possible while she ate breakfast and got herself ready for church. When she tiptoed out of the house, her family was still sleeping. When Serena reached the church, it was still early. She found her friends standing beside one of the pine trees on the front lawn. The only ones of the group who weren't there were Raye and Chad.

"Good morning, everyone," Serena said. Her friends, in turn, bid her good morning, as well.

"Did you sleep well?" Amy asked.

"Yeah, I slept okay," Serena replied. "Say, where are Raye and Chad?"

"Not here yet. I called each of their places and there was no answer so they must be on their way," Mina said. As the minutes ticked on by, Raye and Chad were no where in sight. But, just as the people began to file into the building, Chad's car screeched to a halt in front.

"Sorry we're so late. We must have hit every red light along the way," Raye said.

"That doesn't matter. Better late then never," Lita said as the group walked up the front steps and into the sanctuary. After the service, everyone was invited to Lita's place for brunch. Her parents were at a business conference in Usaka, but they had given Lita their permission to have her friends over after church. Lita was an excellent cook and everyone complimented the meal. After the dishes had been washed, dried, and put away, Lita invited the girls to see her prom dress. She had just bought it the day before. It was dark green with a short slit up one side and there was dark green ribbon trim along the slit. It appeared to be strapless, but some dark green lace was sewn in to form the top and the long sleeves.

"Lita, it's gorgeous," Mina said. "I can hardly wait to go shopping for my prom dress."

"Well, I got this on sale at $100. All the formal dress stores in Tokyo must know that it's prom season," Lita said. "There's sales all over the place."

"Well, maybe us girls could go shopping on Saturday for our dresses. I know I've got my money saved," Mina said.

"Same here. It just wouldn't be the prom without a formal gown," Raye said.

"I'll have to talk to my parents and see if they'll give me the money for a new dress," Serena said. "Last year, I just gotten a dress to wear to my cousin's wedding so that's what I wore to the prom."

"If your parents won't give you the money, God will help you make do with what you have," Amy said.

"Thanks for the support, Amy," Serena said. "I'll need it."

"You're welcome," Amy said in reply. "Now, shouldn't we go back out into the living room before the boys begin to think we've fallen off the face of the earth?" The girls all agreed and they filed back into the living room. The group sat and talked for another hour and then they all had to go home. Most of them had homework that was due on Monday. Serena planned to ask her parents for the money she needed when she got home, but she was dreading the fact that they could say no. She kept praying on the way home that God would get through to her parents and if not, help her to find a dress suitable enough. When Serena walked through the door, she took her shoes off and set them on a mat beside the hall closet. She found her parents and younger brother in the living room. Her brother was playing his Game Boy, her mother was working on some knitting, and her father was reading the Sunday newspaper.

"Mom, Dad, there's something I want to ask you," Serena said as she sat down. Her parents put down what they were doing in order to listen to their daughter. Sammy had not been addressed so he paid no attention.

"What is it, dear?" Ikuku asked.

"Well, in about two weeks is the prom at school and Darien agreed to go with me," Serena said.

"That's nice, dear," Ikuku said.

"If you need our permission, you have it," Kenji said.

"I hadn't thought of that, but thank you," Serena said. "The girls are planning on going shopping on Saturday for their prom dresses. I want to go with them, but I don't have the money for a new dress."

"What about your dress from last year? That should still fit you," Kenji said.

"Oh, Kenji, dear, Serena went with Diamond last year and I don't think she'd be wanting to wear a dress that bears such painful memories," Ikuku said.

"Fine. I'll give you my credit card, but your spending limit is $200," Kenji said.

"Oh, thank you so much, Dad," Serena said as she hugged her father. She also thanked her mother for the words that wore her father down. She also thanked God for coming through. Serena could hardly wait for Saturday.

Indeed, the week passed by rather slowly for Serena, but she prayed for strength and patience. Finally, Saturday morning dawned bright and clear. Serena nearly shouted for joy when she climbed out of bed, but she didn't want to wake her younger brother who was still, most likely, in bed. Her parents were always early risers on Saturdays. Her father liked to catch the morning paper and her mother liked to get an early start on the week's housecleaning. After eating breakfast, which consisted of two big pancakes, some bacon, and a fried egg, Serena walked up the stairs to get ready. She had talked to her friends the day before and Lita would be picking them all up in her SUV. Lita's parents were almost super-rich, but they tried not to spoil her. It was nearly 11:00 in the morning when Lita honked the horn outside Serena's place.

In the first shop the girls visited, Raye thought she had found the perfect dress. It was black organza sheath has a keyhole waist with silver beadwork throughout. It also had a hidden zipper. Raye nearly leapt for joy when she saw the price tag. The dress was only $99.99. The girls found nothing they liked in the second and third shops, but in the fourth, Mina found her dress. It was a gold dress that hugged her shoulders. It had rhinestones on the left shoulder and a long piece of gold fabric trailing off that shoulder. Mina paid $89.99 for her dress. In the fifth shop, Amy found a dress that suited her style and her price. It was Jacaranda blue with beaded English netting over satin in an A-line design. It also had short, see-through sleeves. That dress was $85.99. Now, the only one left to find a dress was Serena. The girls visited more and more shops, but Serena still had not found a dress that she liked. It was in the 14th shop, Serena found a dress that was worthy of a princess. It was ice pink and flowing. It also had spaghetti straps and an ice pink stole. Serena was so grateful about finding that dress that she knelt down in front of it and prayed.

"Thank you so much, Lord, that I could find this wonderful dress. I just pray now that it is within my spending limit. I pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen," Serena said and rose to her feet. Serena looked around the dress for a price tag, which she found at the back of the dress. It was $149.99! Serena nearly went crazy. She prayed again that the dress would fit her. She called the girls over to get their opinions. They all thought that it was perfect for Serena. A saleslady showed Serena to a dressing room so she could try on the gown. It did fit! Serena was so happy that she nearly cried. Before leaving the dressing room, Serena again prayed her gratefulness to God. When she stepped out of the dressing room, the girls were amazed. Not only did they think the dress was perfect for Serena, they also thought the dress looked perfect on Serena. Once Serena changed out of the dress and back into her regular clothes, she carried the dress to the cash register. Just as Serena was about to hand the saleslady her dad's credit card, she heard a call from Mina just a few feet away. What Mina had found was a pair of high-heeled sandals in ice pink. They were perfect to go with Serena's dress and they were only $29.99. So, in addition to the perfect dress, Serena purchased the perfect shoes. Serena already knew what she was going to do with her hair and she had everything she needed to accomplish it. As the girls piled into Lita's SUV, they all felt happy that they had made great purchases. Before driving away, the five friends bowed their heads in prayer. They all thanked God that they had found dresses they had liked. They also thanked God that the dresses they liked were in their price range. As Serena carefully put her dress and shoes in her bedroom closet, she felt the anticipation of what the next Saturday would hold. She was going to the prom as a Christian this year so she felt that it would be the best prom she'd ever attend.

***CHAPTER 9***

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Anime ? Sailor Moon ? How Can I Go On? B s : A A A

Author: Princess of Pink 5

Fiction Rated: K+ - English - Spiritual/Romance - Reviews: 42 - Published: 08-28-04 - Updated: 08-08-05 id:2033429

The morning of April 23rd dawned bright and warm. Serena and her friends crawled out of their sleeping bags (Lita out of her bed), and stretched before going to get some breakfast. After eating a few pancakes each, Serena, Amy, Raye, Lita, and Mina shut themselves in Lita's room to talk about their hairstyles for that night. Serena had already decided on her hairstyle and had brought everything she'd need to accomplish it. The gowns were in large garment bags and hanging in Lita's closet. Since Lita was the hostess of their little get-together, she led her friends in a word of prayer.

"Our Heavenly Father, thank You for this time that we can spend together. Please help us decide the best way to do our hair and make-up for this evening. Also, thank You for helping us pick out gowns that are beautiful and modest. Please help us to pray for those at the prom who are stuck in the pit of sin. We also ask you to help us to stay away from the temptations of Satan tonight and forever. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen," she prayed.

"Amen," the others echoed. Each girl took a shower and thoroughly washed their hair. Amy flipped her hair out at the ends. Lita's style was a simple ponytail of ringlets. Mina put half of her hair in a bun and let the rest fall down. Raye braided a section of her hair and made a hair headband. Serena's hairstyle was the most beautiful of all. She put her hair into a ponytail at the crown of her head and curled thin sections into ringlets which she pinned upward, letting a few fall down.

"Serena, you look gorgeous," Mina said.

"Thanks. I just hope it stays this way until the end of the night," Serena said.

"Okay, girls, it's time to break out the nail polish," Raye said. Each girl had a nail polish that coordinated with their gown. Lita's was dark green. Raye's was silver. Mina's was gold. Amy's was blue. And Serena's was, of course, pink. After they all had their nails painted, the 5 girls sat and waited. Lita's mother was practically an angel of mercy to the girls. She brought up snacks and drinks so no one's nails would be ruined. Finally, it came time to put on make-up. Once they had all made themselves look as beautiful as possible without going overboard, Serena, Amy, Raye, Lita, and Mina all washed their hands and began getting dressed. They all waited in Lita's room until the guys arrived. At 7:00 pm, Lita's mother called to them.

"Girls, your dates are here," she called. Serena and her friends descended the stairs to the front of the house where Darien, Greg, Chad, Ken, and Andrew were waiting. Each of them had a corsage in their hands. Lita's mother took a group photo of the girls with the guys, a group photo of just the girls, a photo of Lita, and a photo of just Lita and Ken. After they all said goodbye to Lita's parents, the guys led the girls outside to a shiny, black limousine.

"Oh, my gosh!" the girls cried.

"We pooled our money and decided to take you girls out in style," Ken said.

"Well, let's go. The prom awaits," Lita said as the girls began filing into the limo. The limousine was big enough for 10 people with some room to spare. The guys had gone all out. Once the limo pulled up in front of Emiko Maya High School, the guys got out first and held their hands out for the girls. The group walked into the gymnasium and was in awe of the decorations. There were silver balloons and streamers everywhere. Along with tiny, sparkling lights, there was a big mirror ball hanging from the ceiling. At one end of the gymnasium was a stage where the DJ had set up and at the other end was a photographer's station. A few couples were lined up outside it.

"Hey, I think those people are having their pictures taken for prom king and queen," Serena said as she pointed out the small line.

"Come on, Andrew," Mina said as she pulled her boyfriend toward the line. Raye, Amy, and Lita also took their boyfriends over. Darien and Serena just stood there.

"I wonder if any of them will win," Serena said.

"I guess they have a good a chance as anyone," Darien said. After a minute or so of awkward silence, Darien spoke up again.

"Would you like to run for prom king and queen?" he asked.

"I don't know. It would seem a little awkward," Serena said.

"Why? We're just friends and everyone who matters to us knows that," Darien said. "I can tell you want to."

"You're right. Let's go," Serena said. After the group all had their pictures taken, the DJ began put on a slow yet lively tune. Halfway through the song, Serena saw Diamond walk in with Beryl on his arm.

"Oh, no," Serena said as quietly as she could. Unfortunately for her, Darien had heard what she said.

"What's the matter?" he asked.

"Diamond and Beryl just showed up," Serena replied.

"Don't let them bother you. Just pray for strength," Darien said. After a few dances, Serena and her friends walked over to the refreshment table.

"How are you, Serena?" Amy asked. She had obviously seen Diamond and Beryl walk in.

"Fine for now," Serena answered. "I'm trying not to think about it."

"Good grief! Look at Beryl's dress," Lita said as she pointed to the photographers station where Diamond and Beryl were getting their picture taken. Diamond was wearing a black tuxedo and Beryl was wearing a sparkling red dress with a slit almost halfway up her thigh. It was also strapless which emphasized her already big chest.

"That's disgusting. I can't believe the principal let her in," Amy said.

"We just have to pray for her and let the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit do the rest," Andrew said.

"Don't forget what it says in Titus: To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and don't believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and their consciences are corrupted," Darien said. "Beryl's mind and conscience are so darkened by sin that she doesn't know that what she's doing is wrong."

"It's almost impossible to believe that a girl like Beryl can be saved," Serena said.

"Well, she can. But, she must accept Jesus Christ as her Savior and repent for her sins," Raye said. "You don't get it for free you know." Raye said her previous remark with such a funny tone that Serena had to giggle. A few seconds later, Diamond and Beryl walked up to them.

"Well, well. I'm surprised you Bible-huggers showed up," Beryl said.

"Beryl, please leave," Lita said.

"Why? It's a free country," Beryl said and turned to Serena. "Nice outfit. You probably should have worn something that will get you a lot of attention."

"May God have mercy on your soul, Beryl," Serena said. "Even if I wasn't a Christian, I wouldn't something that disgusting. It may attract attention, but it's the wrong kind."

"Whatever you say, girlie," Beryl said. "By the way, I saw that you are all running for prom king and queen."

"Don't bother getting your hopes up. The student body has more sense than to vote for you people," Diamond said.

"Right. Come on, baby. Let's go," Beryl said. She and Diamond then walked over to a group of their friends who were standing in a corner.

"Don't let it get to you, Serena," Lita immediately said.

"Surprisingly, I'm not," Serena said.

"Well, that's good. That's the Holy Spirit at work right there," Greg said. For the next 2 hours, the 10 friends danced off and on. Finally the time came to announce the prom king and queen. The student body president and vice president walked onto the stage with the two crowns and an envelope.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is the moment you've been waiting for. It's time to announce this year's prom king and queen," the president said and opened the envelope. "And the winners are:Darien Shields and Serena Campbell." Serena stood there in slight shock for a few seconds until Darien took her by the arm and led her up to the stage. After the crowns were placed on their heads, a small space was cleared in the middle of the dance floor for the royal dance. The DJ played 'God Must Have Spent A Little More Time On You' by NSync. As the lights dimmed, Serena and Darien began dancing. In a dark corner, Beryl was scowling.

"I can't believe those two won," she growled.

"Don't worry, babe. I've got a plan," Diamond said. "I'll leave the guy alone, but what I've got in mind for Serena will shatter her so-called faith and tear her apart in the process."

As Serena and Darien danced together, they felt closer to each other than ever before. Even though Serena had only known Darien for a short time, she sincerely felt that God had brought him into her life for a very specific purpose. Through the Holy Spirit, Darien had led her to believe in God and His Son. And God had also send Serena a great group of friends when she thought that she had no one on left on Earth. All of her old friends were loyal to Diamond and they never spoke to her now. She didn't even care.

Once the song was over, the entire gymnasium seemed to erupt in cheering and applause. For the first time in weeks, Serena felt that she had finally gotten over Diamond. Around midnight, the Serena and her friends had their driver take them all home.

"See you in church tomorrow," Lita said as Serena climbed out of the limousine when it arrived at her house.

"Don't worry. I'll be there," Serena said. She walked into her house and closed the door. Her parents and younger brother were not there having left to visit Serena's aunt and uncle the day before. Serena slowly climbed the stairs and walked into her room. She gently hung her gown in her closet and put on her favorite night gown. After washing her face and brushing her hair, Serena knelt beside her bed to pray.

"Our Heavenly Father, thank You for this time that I could spend with my friends and that I had a good time despite of Diamond and Beryl. Right now, You know the feelings inside me, Lord. Please help me keep them to myself for now. I don't want to ruin my friendship with Darien and plus I'm not quite ready for a relationship yet. Please help me to keep these feelings inside me for now. I pray this in Jesus' Name. Amen," she prayed. Just as Serena rose to her feet, she heard her bedroom door creak open. Now, sometimes Serena left the back door unlocked and it was this that had enabled an intruder to enter the Campbell house. When Serena turned around, she came face to face with Diamond.

"What are you doing in here?" Serena asked with a slightly frightened tone.

"The back door was unlocked so I let myself in," Diamond replied.

"Please get out," Serena said, calmly.

"But, I just want to talk," Diamond said.

"I don't care. I've moved on," Serena said. "And you seem to have done the same thing."

"Beryl doesn't mean a thing to me," Diamond said as he hugged Serena close. "You're the one I'll always care for."

"I don't care. Now get off of me and get out," Serena said as she tried to push Diamond off her. His grip was, unfortunately, too strong for Serena to break. Diamond then moved Serena's hair and began to nuzzle her neck.

"Diamond, stop it!" Serena cried as she attempted to fight him off.

"Don't fight me, Serena. You'll only get hurt," Diamond said as he slid his hand up Serena's thigh.

"Diamond, stop it!" Serena yelled and slapped his face.

"You shouldn't have done that," Diamond said. The next thing Serena knew Diamond's fist collided with her head and everything went black.

Sorry that it took so long for this chapter to come out, but I only write when I feel inspired as do many great artists and writers. I'm not a great writer but that's just the way I work. I hope you enjoy this and I'll try and post the next chapter as soon as possible. Oh, and I had to re-write chapter 6 because I accidentally copied and pasted the wrong file onto the Internet so chapters 5 and 6 were the same. Oh, well. Enjoy!

**This is where the 'complete' fanfic stops. The following is reconstruction using various surviving snippets. Instant cut to several hours later in the next chapter: Serena's friendsare worried because they were supposed to meet her. So:**

"Well, I'm not waiting around for permission to go in," Darien said and opened the door. Once everyone was inside, they began searching for Serena. It was Mina who climbed the stairs to Serena's room. What she saw there made her scream in

terror. Serena was completely nude with blood all around her and bruisescovering her body.

"You guys! Come here! Quick!" Mina yelled as she through a blanket over Serena'snude body.

"Oh, my gosh! What happened here!" Lita asked.

"I think she's been raped," Mina said. "Why else would she be in the nude andcovered in bruises and blood?"

**The police come, and a rape kit is drawn up. In a scene ripped off from Law and Order, Diamond is caught because his semen was still in Serena. Even worse, Serena comes to find out, is that she is pregnant with Diamond's child. But Darien assures her that he'll take care of her and her child, and they pray to God.

So then comes the trial of Diamond:**

Serena was the plaintiff, her lawyer could call the first witnesses. Of course, he called Serena to the stand. Serena fought hard to hold back the tears as she told the court what she remembered.

"Before you step down, Miss Campbell, is there anything else you'd like to tell us?" Mr. Fujikawa asked.

"Yes, there is," Serena replied. "Not only did Diamond steal my innocence but he left something behind. I just found out last week that I'm carrying his baby."

At that remark, one side of the courtroom gasped. Diamond's eyes seemed to be the biggest.

**Diamond is found guilty of rape, and he is sent away to prison. At the end of the chapter, Serena has her baby, whom she calls Jordan.

The epilogue, in its full glory:**

Serena spent 4 days in the hospital before being released. Jordan was a good baby who cried only to be fed and changed. Everyone loved him. When he was less than a week old, Jordan was baptized. As her son grew, Serena taught him the ways of Christian life. Jordan loved going to Sunday school and seeing his 'aunts' and 'uncles' every week at church. When Jordan was 7 years old, Serena and Darien were married. They had both confessed their feelings for each other 3 years earlier. Even though Jordan was a little older than most expected ring bearers, he took on the role with great enthusiasm. Over the course of their marriage, Serena and Darien had 3 children of their own: Emma, Ashleigh, and Aidan. Jordan loved his siblings and would have defended them to the death. Serena's friends also married their sweethearts and had children of their own. The whole group continued to hold strong to their faith in God, through good times and bad, for the rest of their lives.

**The end....

A little known fact is that the author attempted to re-post a "revised" version of this story. Only a few things were changed, such as Serena's suicide attempt (she tries to jump off a bridge) and the scene where Beryl calls the Christians Bible-huggers (which is extended to emphasize Beryl's sluttiness by having her dance in clothes deisnged to show as much skin as possible without getting arrested). Ultimately, though, the fanfic was completely dropped due to its controversial nature and due to critical outrage over its depictionof Christianity, and the two-chapter "revision" - along with the fully-written original - disappeared, the author having deleted it.**