The next day, everyone at Gurney High was talking about the forest fire over the weekend. Every student and teacher wanted to know who was in the middle of the forest at the time of the fire.
        Rob and Ellie carried on a conversation to hide their tracks, that is until they started to hear something very annoying.
        "Rob and Ellie sitting in a tree," said Misty in the hallway, "k-i-s-s-i-n-g. First comes love; then comes marriage, then comes the baby in a baby carriage."
        Rob was very upset at what he and Ellie had to hear. "Misty, what in heaven's name are you talking about?"
        "Simple, it had to have been you two in the forest fire, and that's what you two really did, wasn't it?"
        "No way, creep! You read the paper, and we don't--"
        Ellie took hold of Rob on his right shoulder and said, "Just forget it. She's just beina a total ierk. She was no witness, so she doesn't have a clue about what happened."
        Misty grabbed Ellie's shirt and said, "You better watch that mouth of yours, loser, 'cause if you don't, you won't have a mouth to use!"
        Ellie started growing so upset she was nearly tempted to try to use the Nature Crystal's powers against the bully. However, in her thinking, she started considering the possible consequences of using her powers this way. "I can't do this. To use the crystal against a school bully would be total foolishness. I can't solve this problem by fighting. I'd be as bad as Misty, and more importantly, I would be neglecting my responsibilities as Princess of Naturia and bearer of the Nature Crystal. I have to think of another way to stop this without fighting."
        Misty said, "So, loser, what are you gonna do, huh?"
        Ellie just smiled and said, "Absolutely nothing. Besides, I have nothing to prove to you, and I have more than enough courage to walk away from a fight. Now, don't you have to stay in the alternative classroom all week, considering how lucky you were when the sheriff released you just a couple of hours after you caused the trouble at the festival?"
        Misty let go of her enemy's shirt and shrugged with nerves. "Yeah, I do, but when it's over, you can bet I will get the truth out of you! Just think, the nerd and the ex-bully may be an item after all!" She laughed at the thought as she walked away from Rob and Ellie.
        The pair split up to get to their respective classes on time, but they could not help being cautious about the reporters or the incident which had changed their lives.
        Not too far away down the hall, a lonely janitor was working with the mop on the floor when he heard Misty speaking.
        "I know those two were involved in the fire, and something went on between them," Misty said to herself.
        The janitor looked up at her and asked, "Which two, friend?"
        Misty turned around and bellowed, "Who said that?"
        The janitor looked up and said, "I did, friend. The name's Tom Wilkins, and I'm a reporter for the hard news show Upline. I couldn't help overhearing you talking about two young people being stuck in the fire. Mind if you share it with me . . . for $1000?"
        Misty's eyes lit up with dollar signs. "Did you say $1000? You meet me after school in the garden, and I'll give you the real deal."
        Wilkins had a wicked smile on his face, knowing he would get what he believed to be the truth of the matter.
        Rob and Ellie met at study hall and looked over their notes. "I have this history test coming up on Thursday," Ellie told
Rob, "and I've got to do really well on it!"
        He noticed the tension in her voice. "Ellie, you've got to take it easy. If you keep pushing too hard, you're gonna have a nervous breakdown."
        After a sigh she said, "You're right. I'm just having some trouble coming to terms with what's happened to me. The problem is trying to live a normal life."
        "Ellie, you're overwhelmed with the facts that you are a top-notch student as well as a superheroic princess. It takes time to adjust to this new life, especially since you just regained all your childhood memories."
        She looked at him, smiled, and said, "I guess, as the old adage goes, 'The best things in life never come easy.'"
        "Right. You've got to be able to come to terms with this, and you'll have three special people on your side: Your dad, me, and the spirit of the crystal. We'll be there every step of the way."
        "Thanks, Rob. I feel a lot better now."
        "Well, would a chocolate shake at Wilbur's make you feel more better?"
        "Really?"
        "Yeah, how about it with you and your dad after school?"
        "Sounds like a plan to me." She calmly said, "You've been a wonderful friend through all this mess. How can I ever repay you for all your support?"
        "Just having you as a friend is more than enough for me. Now, do you feel like studying for the test with a better mood?"
        "Yeah, now I can study for it, peacefully."
        The pair of friends went on studying their notes, and Ellie was much calmer in mind and spirit.

        Meanwhile, at his office, Sheriff Sanderson was joined by the fire chief to assess the forest-fire situation. "Glad you could make it here, Dave. We're still short on clues as to who started the fire and why."
        "Yeah, I know. It seems like the only possible motive may be a pyromaniac on the loose."
        "Mm-hmm. Things, though, could actually get worse. The most obnoxious reporter is lurking somewhere in town."
        "Not Tom Wilkins!"
        "Afraid so. He's already started talking about who may have been involved."
        "Well, we know the only two people trapped in the fire were Rob Walker and Ellie Peterson. We know they didn't do it, but if I know Wilkins, he'll twist the story to the point where they'll become the main suspects."
        "Don't worry. Regina's the most trusted reporter out there, and she'll make sure Rob and Ellie are okay."
        "What about Princess Elementa, though? We never did tell the truth about her to Regina. How come?"
        "Because right now I don't think the princess wants to be noticed yet. Remember the way she started stepping back when I came close to her that night? She's lost and scared, and I can't blame her. She's lost her home world, her parents, and now she's on a completely new planet. I think for the moment she needs some time to herself to get used to life on Earth."
        "Sure. She wants to keep out of the spotlight, but I hope we see her again."
        "Uh-huh. She'd make an incredible deputy, since it's obvious she knows how to serve and to protect."
        Fire Chief Ryan happily said, "It's amazing. In this age of teenagers being out of control, one of another planet was raised very well by her parents. She could use her powers to conquer the world, but she's learned to use her powers to help those in need. She could also harness her powers to stop crime, as in the case of the pyromaniac who started the fire Saturday night."
        "Exactly, but there's also the situation involving a deputy I just started last week. Should I allow my newest deputy to take on such a problematic case so soon?"
        "Sure, Dan. Why not? It's the perfect way to break him into law enforcement. Just tell him to go along in the case, not get too wrapped up in trying to do the case."
        "All right." The sheriff turned on his intercom and spoke, "Deputy Michaels, report to my office please."
        "On my way, sir," he responded.
        Walking toward the sheriff's office, the office secretary had no trouble seeing how handsome the young man was.
        Deputy Gordon Michaels was a 25-year-old gentleman who had just joined up with the Gurney County Sheriff's Department as soon as he graduated from law enforcement training with honors. Being at the top of his class, he chose to come to Gurney to start his career in a small community before he opted to move on to bigger cities. with blue eyes and jet-black hair, he did not quite fit in with others in the community. He knew it would take time to get to know the people in such a small city, but he did not mind, as he was a quiet person.
        The tall and slender deputy wondered about why the sheriff wanted to see him. "Is the case too big for me?" he thought to himself. "I sure hope he goes easy on me."
        Michaels calmly stepped into the sheriff's office and took a seat in front of Sanderson and Ryan. "You wanted to see me, sir?"
        "Yes, I did," Sheriff Sanderson said somberly. "I'm going to let you get in on our arson case. However, there is some information that cannot leave this office for any reason. I don't want a panic to occur in the city, and I mean to keep it quiet. There was a lie we told to Regina Johnson yesterday for the paper. The fire wasn't stopped by a freak rainstorm, as we told her, but by an incredible young woman with special powers."
        "Really?" Michaels asked curiously. "Why didn't you tell the truth?"
        Fire Chief Ryan answered, "Because the young woman first is from another planet and second is a little apprehensive at being noticed by others. We want her to have some time to get adjusted to living on Earth. Then, maybe she'll decide to talk to someone about herself."
        "Oh, I see," Michaels said. "Does she have a name?"
        "Yes," said Sanderson. "Her name is Princess Elementa. Now, you must keep all this information as hush-hush as possible. Can I trust you with that responsibility?"
        "Yes, sir. You can count on me."
        "I hope so, especially since Upline reporter Thomas Wilkins is somewhere in town."
        "That troublemaker's here?"
        "Right. I also have a press conference later today, trying to explain what exactly happened. If Wilkins shows up, which is more than likely, he's going to make the only two witnesses in the fire into the two main suspects."
        "Well, what's the case been like?"
        "Simple. The fire was deliberately set by someone. The only three people anywhere near the fire were Ellie Peterson, Robert Walker, and Princess Elementa. We know for a fact Rob and Ellie didn't start that fire because we found no traces of gasoline or kerosene from his car or her bicycle. The only gasoline was from the exhaust pipe of the car."
        "What about the princess?"
        "She did pop up on the scene," Ryan noted, "but she couldn't stand the smell of gasoline, since she's never heard of gasoline."
        "Or maybe she does know and was faking it," Michaels said in a serious tone.
        "Are you accusing her of starting the fire!?" Ryan shouted.
        "No, no," Michaels answered, "I'm not trying to accuse her of anything. Just hear me out. What if someone had poured gasoline on the area already, and the princess didn't realize it if she had sparked the fire with her powers?"
        "It's only a theory," Ryan said, "and it's a sound one. I'm sorry I went off on you like that."
        "It's all right, sir. You just want to make sure all three people were clear. I just wanted to state my opinion and theory."
        "Well," Sheriff Sanderson said, "I'm glad we're all at peace here." Pausing for a moment, he then said, "My heart's telling me she didn't do it, but the deputy's theory is a notable one. I'm still not naming her as a suspect, but now things are starting to get interesting."
        All three gentlemen continued to look over the notes about the fire, but neither of them could figure out who had started the fire or the reasoning behind it.

        Later that day, when the last school bell rang, Rob and Ellie walked out by the south side of the high school.
        Rob said, "Okay, I'll see you and your dad at Wilbur's more than likely in about twenty minutes."
        "Sounds good," Ellie said happily.
        However, their happy mood was about to change when they saw Misty in the garden talking to a janitor who was holding a microphone.
        Ellie looked at the strange situation. "Rob, what's going on there?"
        "I don't know, but since when does a janitor start doing interviews, unless . . ."
        She gasped. "Oh, no! Tom Wilkins must be posing as the janitor! We're both in big trouble; let's get out of here!"
        Misty and the "janitor" were still talking when Misty saw the pair trying to run off. "There they go!"
        Wilkins grabbed his gear and was able to jump over the garden to intercept them.
        Pushing his microphone into their faces, he vehemently said, "All right, you two. You better tell me what your role was in the forest fire!"
        "What are you talking about?" Rob asked in panic.
        "Did you two start that forest fire the other night?"
        Ellie quickly answered, "We most certainly did not! Didn't you read the newspaper? The sheriff's department still doesn't have a suspect yet. Besides, I wouldn't know the first thing on how to start a fire!"
        "Do you really expect me to believe that nonsense!?"
        A voice from behind him said, "I suggest you do that, Mister Wilkins."
        "Mr. Stanton! " Ellie said excitedly.
        "Is this gentleman harassing both of you?"
        Rob replied, "Yes, sir. He's been told that we're responsible for the forest fire over the weekend."
        Stanton gave Wilkins the evil-eye stare and said, "How dare you accuse two of my students on such an outrageous charge! Next time, why don't you read a newspaper and talk to sources that are more reliable than Misty the gossip, hmm?"
        Rob then added, "And without authorization, aren't you trespassing on school property?"
        Wilkins said, "Hey, to get a good story, sometimes it takes rule-breaking."
        "You won't do that here," Stanton said sternly, "because you better leave when I count to five."
        As Stanton was counting, Wilkins quickly took off. "You may have stopped me now, but wait until the sheriff's press conference at 5:00 today! I'll tell everyone that those two are the suspects in the arson case!"
        As he continued running, Ellie was very concerned. "Now what are we going to do? If he tells those other reporters . . ."
        "Don't worry, Ellie," Stanton noted. "Knowing how bad his reporting abilities are, most of them will be laughing very hard at him. Only the sheriff will be telling the truth."
        "I sure hope you're right."
        Rob took a hold of Ellie's hand and said, "He is right. The sheriff knows about Wilkins's rotten style, and he won't let that creep change the story. "
        Ellie breathed a sigh of relief. "I guess so. After all, it was Sheriff Sanderson who got me adopted."
        "And," added Rob, "the sheriff was the one who let me become a part of the community's forestry program. I know for a fact he wouldn't twist a thing in the story."
        "Okay, kids," said Stanton, "I'll see you tomorrow, hopefully gossip-free."
        All three parted ways with Stanton going back to his office, Rob walking to his car, and Ellie waiting for her father to pick her up.
        Just a few blocks away from the school was the popular hangout for Gurney High students known as Wilbur's. A treasured place since the 1950s, the fast-food restaurant wasn't the typical style for the fast-food place. The meals could be seen being grilled, baked, fried, or any other style by customers, making the hangout one of the best in the country.
        This day was no different as it was roaming with so many students and one adult, Harold Peterson. This was his hangout with his wife Eleanor during the happy times of the '50s, the rugged '60s, and the disco '70s. Despite his age, Mr. Peterson never had any trouble getting recognized by fellow patrons, as he was also a member of "Wilbur's Hall of Fame," a distinguished group of people which helped keep the place the way it was. He was considered a local celebrity, even by the teenage customers.
        He, Ellie, and Rob sat at their own table and enjoyed baked french fries and the greatest chocolate milkshakes in the state.
        "So," Mr. Peterson said, "Tom Wilkins was at the school, in disguise as a janitor?"
        After taking a sip of her milkshake, Ellie replied, "That's right, Dad. We found him talking to Misty, but then he suddenly jumped after us."
        "And to make matters worse," added Rob, "he made it sound as if we started that forest fire!"
        Mr. Peterson angrily said, "If I ever get my hands on him--"
        A voice from behind said, "Hey, save some for me."
        The three noticed who spoke.
        B.J. Montgomery came up to their table and asked, "You mind if I sit with you?"
        "No," Rob replied, "not at all. Join us."
        B.J. then said, "I swear, I don't know why Wilkins is talking to Misty about who started the forest fire. After all, she's not the most reliable person to ask for information."
        Ellie then said, "Misty must've told you about us. "
        "Yeah, me and practically the whole school, but if it makes both you and Rob feel better, just about no one believes her or Wilkins."
        "Well, that's some good news, considering the type of mess we've gotten into with Mr. Wilkins."
        "Try not to worry about that, pumpkin," Ellie's dad said. "I know that at the press conference, the sheriff and fire chief will only be truthful about the matter."
        "Ain't it the truth," B.J. said, "but I wonder about how the fire got put out by a freaky rainstorm. How could a storm that powerful come out of nowhere to quell those flames?"
        Ellie tried to come up with a scientific explanation. "I'm gonna sound like a real nerd saying this, but maybe the smoke from the fire created enough condensation to start the rainfall to stop it." That was the perfect excuse to cover how the fire was really stopped.
        "Not a bad theory, Ellie," Rob noted. "What do you think of that, B.J.?"
        "Sounds like it could make some sense, but I still say someone outside the sheriff's or fire department did something to stop that fire."
        Mr. Peterson noted, "If a person did stop the fire, he or she probably wants to remain anonymous, like the good samaritan."
        "Sure, a person who's doing a good deed, which in this case saved our forest and the city."
        "If that person wants to reveal himself," Ellie said, "I say he can do it in his own time."
        "How do you know it's a 'him'?" B.J. asked.
        "I'm just using the generic 'him', since we don't know who the person is yet."
        "That's a good point."
        The four laughed at the commenting and went on enjoying their afternoon snacks as others fanned in and out of the popular restaurant.

        A few minutes before 5:00, reporters from everywhere gathered outside the sheriff's office, preparing for the press conference.
        Regina was taking up her position when she heard a voice from her left.
        "Regina, is that you?" spoke a female voice.
        Upon turning around she noticed a reporter sporting a pretty red sportsjacket and matching black skirt. "I don't believe it!" she exclaimed. "Alaina Matthews?"
        The brown-eyed redhead came up to her and hugged. "It's so good to see you after all these years."
        "Yeah, since we were classmates at Duke a few years back. I guess you're a TV reporter."
        "For WALZ in Raleigh."
        "When did you start there?"
        "About a month after Tom Wilkins was fired. The execs liked my easy-going style of reporting, following the journalism code of ethics to the letter, like you do."
        "Speaking of Tom, he's here in town."
        "Uh-oh, you know what that means. He'll try to name the incorrect people involved in the fire. Now, on the serious side, do you think the sheriff was telling the truth about how the fire was put out?"
        "He said a mysterious rainstorm put it out, but do you think he's concealing someone, like a good samaritan?"
        "Who knows? He may not even know anything about the person at all."
        "We'll just have to wait and see, since it's time."
        As Sheriff Sanderson, Deputy Michaels, and Fire Chief Ryan came to the podium, camera bulbs flashed like times of seeing Mark McGwire's home runs.
        The sheriff took the podium and said, "Ladies and gentlemen of the press, I want to welcome you to this press conference which concerns the mysterious forest fire which occurred only a couple of evenings ago. I am ready to take questions."
        The sheriff was grilled from the beginning, taking questions ranging from a motive to possible suspects.
        Then, during the possible suspects portion, Wilkins finally opened his troublesome mouth. "Sheriff, isn't it true that the real suspects are a couple of teenagers who attend a local high school here in Gurney?"
        "I'm afraid you're sadly mistaken, Mr. Wilkins. You see, I don't consider a 16-year-old gossip as a reliable source of information. Yes, Mr. Stanton called me about your trespassing at the high school, and I should have you arrested on that charge."
        Every reporter laughed very hard at him while his face was changing into a cherry shade of red.
        The entire time, however, Deputy Michaels stayed very quiet, and clutched his right hand into a hard fist, something obviously troubling him, but what exactly?
        When the press calmed down, Regina asked, "I know you told me about a rainstorm stopping the fire, but are you in fact hiding a person who may have actually saved the forest?"
        Fire Chief Ryan stepped up and said, "No, Regina, as far as we know, the condensation from the smoke created the rain and put out the fire for us."
        Then, it was Alaina's turn. "I checked the local weather report concerning that. Since when does a rainstorm go in four different directions to put out a fire? I hate to say this to you, but that's scientifically impossible."
        The sheriff and the fire chief looked at each other and made the decision that she finally got them good.
        "Miss Matthews, " Sheriff Sanderson said wholeheartedly, "you are absolutely right. Someone really was responsible for saving the forest." In another clever rouse, though, he said, "However, I'm afraid we don't know who did it. If the good samaritan wants to come forward, let that one choose a time appropriate, for I believe he wishes to remain anonymous for the time being."
        When Michaels heard that, he had a feeling of anger growing inside him. "I know that the 'he' is a 'she," he thought. "The sheriff is smart not to tell anyone about her, but he should not have said anything to me."
        About the good samaritan, Alaina said, "Of course, Sheriff; the good samaritan is a hero, but he must have gone to some great lengths to put out that fire."
        "Yes, ma'am, he did. As I said, though, he'll reveal himself at his own convenience. That's all, thank you."
        As the major officials left the conference area, all the reporters applauded Alaina for getting at least a bit of the truth out of those officials.
        Regina said, "Good going, pal. Now we know someone put out the fire, but what if the same person started the fire, attempting to get only attention?"
        "Hmm, it's certainly possible, so it could add to the mystery about the forest fire."
        "Well, one thing's for sure. The two kids who were trapped in the forest that night are still not suspects, and I don't think they will be."
        "Two kids?" Alaina asked curiously.
        "Yes. I interviewed the only two people there at that time, but I promised to keep their names confidential, until the matter is resolved."
        "Hey, I understand, Regina. That code of ethics is very important to both of us. I'm not going to force anything from you. You're a great reporter."
        "So are you, Alaina. Will I see you soon?"
        "If that pyromaniac gets caught, I'll be here."
        When all the reporters left, Deputy Michaels still sat in his chair, feeling more and more bitter about the situation. "How is it possible for just one person to put out an entire forest fire? That girl Princess Elementa's gotta pay for ruining my plans!"
        He finally stood up and walked into the sheriff's office. Sanderson looked at him and asked, "Are you okay, Michaels?"
        "Huh?" Michaels said, snapping back into reality. "Oh, yeah, I'm fine. I was just thinking about something, that's all."
        "Go home, Michaels. You've had a pretty hard day today."
        With a salute he said, "Thank you, sir. I'll see you first thing in the morning."
        When Michaels arrived at his quaint apartment, he sat down in his recliner. A feeling of rage was growing inside his heart. "I have to find Princess Elementa without that stupid sheriff being there to congratulate her for saving the forest." With a smile of nastiness, he said, "I'll get rid of that goody-goody princess and then proceed with my plans."
        What was going through Michaels' mind? Why did he want to do away with Princess Elementa so badly? Was it something about the matter which revealed his true attitude, no one knowing he could not be the person anyone thought he was . . .

        At the Peterson home, Ellie and her adopted father discussed the press conference while washing dishes.
        "How do you like that?" Mr. Peterson said. "Alaina Matthews managed to get part of the truth out of the sheriff, and I thought Tom Wilkins was bad."
        "Now wait a minute, Dad," Ellie noted. "Alaina got some info Sheriff Sanderson didn't expect her to get: that weather report for the night of the fire. There is no scientific way for a storm to go four directions."
        "That's true, but at least Dan didn't reveal the name of the good samaritan."
        "Well, I've heard about Alaina Matthews' reputation. She can get the right answers when she gets the right information. This case isn't different. She looked at the weather report and caught the sheriff off-guard. Nothing could have been done to prevent this ."
        "I'm so glad you're taking this so humbly." Switching subjects, he then said, "There's something I don't understand about you, Ellie."
        She looked at him and asked, "What is it, Dad?"
        "If you're really a princess, then why are you helping me do what seems to be a meaningless task?"
        "Dad," she started to answer, "I never consider any task as meaningless. Back on Naturia, I never wanted to think of my title as being above anyone. I had the desire to make other children of my world feel like princes and princesses."
        "You and your parents cared about the people of your world, didn't you?"
        "Yes, we did. To us, the title of 'royal family' was just a pair of words. We treated the citizens as equals, and we believed in giving everyone a chance to feel like royalty and for us to be the citizens themselves. I loved being a helpful princess on Naturia. Also, to be honest, I think washing dishes is interesting. I never had to do the dishes on my world."
        When Ellie put her head down, her father came to her, placed his right hand on her chin, and said, "Oh, pumpkin. I know your parents would be so proud of you right now. There is a little of Princess Elementa within your secret identity as Ellie. You are very helpful; you care for others, as demonstrated by your volunteering your time at the forest festival when it needed help; and you treat your best friends as equals, especially Rob. You are a true 'hands-on' princess."
        Ellie started having tears down her cheeks as she said, "Oh, Dad, I'm so happy my parents sent me to such a wonderful planet and a nice place where people really do care."
        "Hey, there may be bad news everywhere else, but here in our little city of Gurney, good news always prevails. The better news for me is my daughter being a royal princess, but not a spoiled princess."
        "Dad, the last thing I would ever want to be in my lifetime is a spoiled princess. Besides, with the powers I have, I could easily take over Earth, but my parents, Ostro the wizard, and the spirit of the crystal all taught me to use those powers to help people, never to harm them. Of course, I'd love to use the crystal to find the creep who started the forest fire."
        "In other words, use your powers to stop evil."
        "Yeah. There's nothing wrong with that, is there?"
        "No, of course not, but what would you do if you caught the pyromaniac?"
        "I would freeze him in his place and turn him over to Sheriff Sanderson. I have to remember, I have no legal authority here on Earth."
        "You know, if Dan ever gave you a chance, would you like to be a deputy, enforcing law and order?"
        "You mean to use my powers to catch evildoers in the name of justice?" After thinking for a moment, she then said, "Why not? It's similar to using my powers to defend Naturia, but just in a smaller area."
        "Exactly, but don't think about that right now. As soon as we finish these dishes, you1ve got some homework to do."
        "You're right. I'm getting so caught up in being a superhero I'm forgetting I'm a high-school student. This life is just not getting any easier is it?"
        "It's just going to take time to adjust. Being an adolescent superhero is much tougher than being an adult hero, since you have to think about homework as well as saving the day."
        "I just hope I can handle this double life. There's so much pressure on me now, and I don't know if I can do this."
        Giving her a hug, Mr. Peterson said, "Don't worry, pumpkin. I'II help you, and so will Rob and the spirit of the crystal. We will do everything we can to help you become used to this sudden double identity crisis."
        "Thanks, Dad. I feel a lot better, knowing the people I care about most are willing to help me with this problem."
        "Now, shall we finish the dishes?"
        "Of course."
        The father and daughter felt much closer than ever before, realizing how grateful it was to have each other for love and support, especially at their toughest times.

        Later that night, Ellie was sleeping soundly in her bed, that is until she began to experience a dream even stranger than all the dreams and flashes she had leading to her true identity.
        In her mind, she saw the troublemaking reporter Tom Wilkins, who kept yelling, "You started that fire!" over and over again.
        Ellie was in a chair similar to a courtroom. She desperately tried to defend herself. "No, I didn't start that fire! I could not have done something so horrible to destroy a special area!"
        Suddenly, Wilkins jumped to where his nose touched hers, and he yelled, "You know you did it! Confess! Confess to the whole that you started it!"
        "NO!" she screamed as she suddenly awoke from her dream.
        Mr. Peterson quickly rushed into the room. "Pumpkin, are you all right? I heard you all the way from the far end of the hallway."
        She breathed very heavily and said, "I'm sorry I woke you up, Dad, but I've had the most terrifying nightmare of my life." She told him the chilling details.
        After assessing her dream, he said, "Listen to me, pumpkin. I know you did not start that forest fire. The only thing you did that night was follow Rob into the forest because you knew he needed some help. Besides, you didn't even know you were Princess Elementa yet. There's no way you could've done it."
        Growing teary-eyed, Ellie said, "I know, Dad, but Tom Wilkins gives me the creeps."
        "He could give anybody the creeps, believe me. His dirty way of reporting can scare anyone, even those who know they're innocent." He then gave her a consoling hug, trying to comfort her at such a difficult time in her life. "It's going to be all right, pumpkin, I promise."
        "I hope so." The girl cleared her eyes and added, "I'm going to try to get some sleep, but not without a little help."
        "From me?"
        "No, from the spirit of the Nature Crystal."
        "Are you sure?"
        "Dad, I can contact her telepathically without disturbing you, like I did Saturday night when you brought me home."
        "Oh, okay. I understand. Good night, pumpkin."
        "Good night, Dad."
        He then turned off the light and closed the door.
        As Ellie closed her eyes and put herself into a trance-like state, she calmly said, "Great spirit of the Nature Crystal, please hear my thoughts, for I seek your advice and wisdom."
        In her mind she sat on a bench with the spirit sitting to her right.
        "I am here, Princess Elementa," said the calm spirit. She then closed her eyes. "I sense trouble within your heart and your mind. What is wrong?"
        "It's this double life I have now. I'm not sure I can handle something like this."
        "Why do you say that, young one?"
        "I have to balance keeping people safe with doing my homework. How can I ever lead a normal life?"
        "You have help, Princess. Your adopted father, your best friend Robert, and I will always be there to help you cope with this new situation in your life. As long as you use your powers to help other people and never for personal gain, you will be able to live with your double identity. I also know you possess the heart of your real identity within your Earthly identity."
        "But what about the dream I had tonight? Is it possible that I did start the forest fire without even knowing it?"
        "No, my child. As your father said, you did not start the fire." The spirit placed her hand on Ellie's shoulder and said, "You have nothing to fear from anyone, especially from that awful man, Tom Wilkins."
        "I know, but can I trust anyone besides Dad and Rob?"
        "Yes. You can also trust Sheriff Sanderson, for he is your friend as well. Although you cannot reveal your secret to him, he is a strong person who cannot be easily swayed by anyone, let alone Tom Wilkins. The sheriff is like you, both of you believing in truth and justice."
        "That's true. He's been a wonderful friend, and he's the one person who got me and Dad together."
        "Princess, whatever happens, you must have faith in the people you trust. Then, and only then, will you know who your true friends are."
        Ellie looked at her guardian with a smile and said, "I understand, dear friend. It hasn't been easy for me to be able to open up to other people since I lost everything on my home world."
        "I know. Fortunately, the hand of fate brought you and your Earth father together. You both have lost loved ones, but you can talk about how you feel about your grieving losses. You now have a father figure here on Earth, guiding your new knowledge of what is right and wrong. As for him, he has the daughter he was never able to have, recharging his will to live on. You must never forget how much love and support both of you have for each other."
        "I never have forgotten, and I never will. Thank you."
        "Do you need me for anything else, young one?"
        "No, I feel better now. I better get some sleep before I get up grouchy in the morning."
        "Of course, Princess. Good night."
        When her mind came back to reality, Ellie was able to sleep normally, knowina she had help to keep her double life in check.

        The next day in study hall at Gurney High, Ellie was feeling good about herself. She went through the regular routine of looking over the notes from her history class.
        Rob noticed his best friend's upbeat attitude. "Well, I see you're in a better mood today."
        She looked at him, smiled, and said, "Yeah, I'm feeling a lot better. I had a good talk with both Dad and the spirit of the crystal. I learned I need to have faith in the friends I do have. I may not have too many, but it's better for me this way. I know you, Dad, the spirit, and the sheriff are my best friends because you've all been there for me when I've needed help."
        "Yeah, well here's something that'll get you laughing. When Misty came in today, everyone in the alternative classroom started laughing at her because they had already known she was the '16-year-old gossip' who told Tom Wilkins about those so-called real events of the fire. Also, she got really upset when she found out she wasn't going to get the $1000 Wilkins promised her because she fabricated the whole thing in her twisted little mind."
        "Man, I'd never tell what happened that night for a million dollars to that creep Wilkins. After all, he's the most vicious, rude, and sickening reporter I've ever seen in my life. And," she said with a pause, "he was in my worst nightmare last night."
        "What happened?" asked a concerned Rob.
        "He kept accusing me of starting that fire. I began to lose my self-confidence, but Dad and the spirit were able to calm me. They said I don't have anything to fear about Mr. Wilkins. I just shouldn't worry about the fire because I know I didn't start it. Do you understand what I mean?"
        "Of course, Ellie. Being an ex-bully, I've had to deal with that problem. During the first year of not being a bully, people were accusing me of doing something wrong. Luckily, Mr. Stanton and Sheriff Sanderson both believed in me, and I knew my life was just going to keep getting better. They were the first ones responsible for getting me to believe in myself. When you became my friend, my self-confidence boosted even further. You see, one of the most important things you need to do is believe in yourself. The only way others can tell how good you are is when you're feeling good about yourself."
        "Hmm, a good philosophy, my friend."
        "Take it from me, Ellie. Regaining your childhood memories is very similar to reforming your life after being a bully."
        "I couldn't have put that any better."
        "So, you still got that history test to take care of?"
        "Of course, on Thursday. Also, I have to be ready to work on an essay in English. The topic is identifying a literary character that closely resembles your own life."
        "Have you found one yet?"
        "Well, I've only read four books on the reading list so far, but the one book I love to read is A Tale of Two Cities."
        "By Charles Dickens?"
        "Yeah. That book was so interesting to read because the historical timing of the story was really important, since it was set in the time of the fall of France's Bastille prison."
        "Very true. Are you considering doing a major character in that book?"
        "Sure, but I can't decide between Lucie Manette or Charles Evrémonde."
        "Well, I read that book before, and what always amazes me is that classic line that ends the book--"
        Together, Rob and Ellie said, "'It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to, than I have ever known."'
        Everyone else in the classroom applauded their fantastic act. The teacher stood up and said, "That line never sounded that good before. That was wonderful."
        Ellie blushed and said, "Oh, dear. I'm sorry, Mrs. Wiley. I didn't mean for us to attract attention."
        "It's okay, Ellie. You were only stressing one of the greatest lines in literature. Besides, I overheard you had an essay coming up about a literary character who mirrors your own life. Sounds like an interesting essay."
        "Thank you, Mrs. Wiley. I hope I don't do anything like that again."
        "Hey, as long as it pertains to school, I'll allow literary outbursts. I'll even let drama students practice their plays in front of the study hall audience." After a good laugh, Mrs. Wiley said, "Okay, everyone, back to what you were doing before the incredible act."
        Another laugh came across, and everyone returned to normal routines within the room.
        Rob then looked at Ellie and said, "I'm going to be honest with you. Charles Evrémonde may not be a good idea for one good reason."
        "What is it?" she asked curiously.
        "Evrémonde led a double life to escape imprisonment in France by becoming Charles Darney in London. You have a double life of your own, one you have to lead to escape the troubles and dangers you had to live through on your home world. Now, here you are, as a regular high-school student. Doing Evrémonde may be a little too close to your real life."
        She thought about his comment and said, "You may have a point there. Evrémonde is way too close to my own life. I'd be better off doing Lucie Manette."
        "Hey, she had hard times to go through, since her father was imprisoned for a long time."
        "Yeah, Lucie had to be strong without her father, and here I am, trying to be strong even though my parents are gone."
        "Go for Lucie. She's perfect."
        "All right. Lucie Manette it is."
        The two went on laughing and talking about what they had to go through during school.
        Also, their friendship seemed to become better and closer because they were basically kindred spirits, the pair having been through some of the strangest and hardest times in their lives.
        The two understood each other so well, acting more like a protective brother-and-sister team than a pair of best friends, looking out for each other's well-being.

        At the sheriff's office, Deputy Michaels sat in his chair, thinking about what to do about Princess Elementa. "If that guy Wilkins is still around, I'll give him the real story. The question is how to find him."
        By sheer coincidence, Tom Wilkins was in the sheriff's office desperately pleading to see Sheriff Sanderson to continue trying to get the real story about the fire. "Come on, Sheriff," Wilkins said anxiously, "why don't you tell the truth? Just what are you hiding from the public?"
        "You accused two good teenage citizens of starting the forest fire, when I already knew that wasn't true. A young man was angry with his mother and took off for the forest. His friend saw him, and she went after him to try to help him. They didn't know the fire was well under way in the forest. They were the only ones in the vicinity of the fire, but there was no sign of kerosene on his car or her bicycle. That's all I'm going to tell you."
        "Can't you give me any names?"
        "State law prohibits releasing the names of people under the age of 18. Don't you know that?"
        "Look, I'm not going to leave this area until I get the story on the fire, get it?"
        "If I catch you trying to pry information out of anyone, you will be arrested. Is that clear?"
        "Sure, Sheriff, sure."
        As the two opponents walked off in different directions, the deputy saw his chance. "Mr. Wilkins," Michaels said, "hold up a minute."
        "What do you want?" Wilkins asked angrily.
        "I may have that information you're seeking so desperately."
        "You do? How?"
        "Hold it down," Michaels whispered. "I don't want Sanderson to hear us. Now, how about we meet at Wilbur's at 4 p.m. today. I can give you the whole story, as long as my name has no involvement in the story."
        "Are you serious?" Wilkins asked in an excited whisper. "Very serious."
        "All right, 4:00 this afternoon at Wilbur's. I'll be there." "I'll see you then."
        The two gentlemen wickedly smiled at each other. They parted ways, knowing they thought they both would get what they want: a chance at revenge for Michaels and a great story for Wilkins.
        "That princess will be taking a mighty fall," Michaels said to himself. "She'll be sorry for messing up my plans."

        At the local newspaper office, Regina Johnson worked on her story about the latest happenings about the forest fire.
"Now, let's see." Typing on her computer, she said, "So far, there are still no suspects in the mysterious arson-fire incident. WAIZ reporter Alaina Matthews was able to get some information on who stopped the fire from Sheriff Sanderson, but nothing more."
        She paused for a moment and then added, "The identity of the good samaritan who saved the forest is still unknown, but if that one special person wishes to remain anonymous, so the better--"
        She stopped, realizing what she did. "No. I'm making this into an editorial when I should be reporting the facts. It's just hard to get the words out right."
        Just then, the editor-in-chief came in. "How's it going, Regina? Getting the story together?"
        "Oh, hi, Mr. Beals. I'm just trying to report the facts, but I can't seem to get the words out right."
        "I have an idea. Why don't you give the latest details about the fire, and then report about the good samaritan in an editorial of your own?"
        Regina gave the idea much thought and said, "Thanks for the suggestion, sir. How come you're doing so much to help?"
        "I love to give my writers a helping hand once in a while, to make the story short, consise, and very believable. After all, I am a 22-year veteran of the game, but I decided to come here because it's a peaceful city, at least it was, until the fire a few days ago. I just hope Sheriff Sanderson finds the creep responsible for trying to wreck a special part of this area. My doctor wanted me to come to some place peaceful, so I moved here almost two years ago. The fishing's great here, the forest is so serene, and the people of Gurney are so warm and friendly, except for the young lady, Misty Ziegler."
        "Misty's always been a troublemaker who ends up on page one very often, but that's the worst thing that happens around here, with the exception of the fire."
        Beals nodded in agreement. "You are so right, Regina. The peace and serenity may have been shattered forever by the recent events of the last few days. Unfortunately, a seasoned arsonist will come around to finish a job, even if he botches the job the first time."
        "Do you think so?"
        "Sure. Coming from New York, there were those times where we didn't think we'd ever find that light at the end of the rainbow in terms of the crime rate, but things there have changed for the better. Now, though, things may be changing around here, for the worst."
        "Oh, I sure hope not. The last thing Gurney needs is to become a city plagued by crime, like the big cities. Whoever that mysterious good samaritan is, I hope he can come through again."
        "You never know. For the most part, the good samaritan does the deed and disappears, but hopefully this one won't."
        "For the sake of all the people who made this city what it is now, I hope the samaritan's still out there somewhere."
        "We all do, Regina. We all do."

Move on to Part 5