Author's Note: This is a combination of two chapters from Black Moon Enemies, originally the second book in the series.
Reader's Note: From this point on you will begin to see points of view from other characters more often. The other Inner Senshi begin to form better relationships with the Shitennou, and we will see more and more of my created characters. Again, remember all the characters are listed at the bottom of every chapter.
Two Additional Scenes added 11/5/20
Music Selection:
Sam Tinnez - With You 'Til The End
Five Finger Death Punch - Wrong Side of Heaven
Fall Out Boy - Centuries; Light 'Em Up; Immortals; Phoenix
The Legacy of Dark Endymion
Part Two: Black Moon Enemies
M Rated Version
Chapter Seven
Arrivals
January 5
***Mamoru***
Mamoru held Usagi's hand and led her to the pond. They had a favorite tree where he could spread a blanket and they would sit together to work on homework or talk. They tried to go a few times a week since it wasn't all that cold. It was obvious, even at only thirteen weeks, that Usagi was pregnant. He swore she looked different every day now. He laid a few small pillows on the ground. He had taken to carrying them so that she could rest comfortably.
He ended up laying with his head on her outstretched legs, his hand on her belly while she finished Romeo and Juliette. She had to write a paper on how they could have ended the feud instead of dying. Whenever he thought of the story Mamoru couldn't help but remember their past life, and how they had died. Endymion had been killed by Beryl, and Serenity had impaled herself on his sword.
He really didn't feel like doing anything today, except worrying. It was becoming his main pastime, and he wasn't sure how to stop. He worried about everything. Would there be another enemy? Would she have to fight while pregnant? Would there be time to get everything ready before the babies came? Would she even be able to go to school with two infants? Would she be okay during the delivery? His mind whiled with thoughts.
He felt a little nudge on his hand, and tried to clear his mind. He wondered what his children would be like. While he wasn't happy they had been conceived in the manner they had been, he was happy they were going to be born. Would they be close? A boy and a girl. He wondered what Usagi thought about names. Should he mention it? Were there any old-wives tales that said he shouldn't? He didn't want to make Ikuko-mama mad. Usagi's mother could be scary!
Nudge. Her symptoms changed a lot. She'd had the hiccoughs again several times, and then one day while they were training with Haruka and Michiru, Usagi had been feeling a little sleepy when suddenly she yawned. Her belly had started to glow and then she was sleeping on a fluffy bed in the middle of the park. And her personal shield wouldn't let anyone but Mamoru go to her. People who had been on top of a nearby building kept asking if she was okay, and wanted to know if they needed anything. It had been sweet, but the whole thing has seriously freaked him out.
Nudge. The symptoms could be funny, like suddenly singing silly nursery rhymes, or frightening, like when she started to cry and couldn't stop for several hours, but had no idea why she was crying. And the cravings were insane. Strawberry-vanilla shakes were major, but the weird one was her least favorite food. Carrots. By the bag. And applesauce with cinnamon. And fish rolls, but he wouldn't let her have any fish because the levels of mercury were too high.
Another little nudge, and Usagi pressed his hand down, placing one over his, and another just beside it. "Did you feel that?"
Mamoru gasped. "They're moving! I felt them moving!"
"I thought it was gas at first, but you're right. They're kicking!" She laughed with pure joy, and when she stopped the little nudges came again.
"They like your laughter." He pressed his face to her belly. "Can you hear us little ones?"
***Future Setsuna***
Pluto looked up as the two children raced for her. "Setsuna!" they were shaking and afraid. "Please help us!"
Chibi-Usa couldn't stop crying. "Mommy..." She trailed off, not sure how to explain.
"I already know sweetling. Do you have Luna P? And you have Artie P?" She waited for them to nod, and handed them the key. "I'm sending you back where you will be safe with your parents. Now remember, you cannot tell them anything about this day. They must discover it for themselves. I will see you soon. Be safe and listen to them!"
Chibi-Usa held up the key and said the incantation. Pluto focused their time and destination to a specific moment, and they were gone. 'Be safe,' she thought, praying she had done the right thing. She'd known it was coming. Known for a long, long time. And she knew the loneliness she would now face. With a sad sigh, she turned and looked at the time door.
'Well there is one thing I can do to help,' she thought and sent herself back in time to prepare.
***Usagi***
Usagi couldn't seem to stop laughing. Every time she did, the little ones would start again, and she would get so happy she had to laugh again. Mamoru kept kissing her belly.
"Can you hear mommy laughing?" he asked.
Usagi smiled and brushed the hair away from his eyes. He was so handsome and wonderful. She laughed again as he blew a raspberry. The babies kicked. She could feel them both. It was wonderful.
"My little ones," said Mamoru, "do you know mommy and daddy love you?"
"Of course we do!" The voice was new, and had come from their left. Usagi looked over, but the sun was behind the figure. And then two very young people stepped forward. They appeared to be about seven or eight years old. It was the little boy who had spoken. When the two children knelt down beside them, Usagi took a good look.
The boy had hair that was a mix of purple and black. His eyes were the same deep blue she recognized so well in Mamoru's face, except there was a purple ring around them. He was taller than the girl, but only by an inch or so, and he was slim, like Mamoru, and seemed frustrated and sad. The girl had hair a mix of pink and blonde, with eyes the same as she saw on herself in the mirror, also blue but a little lighter and a reddish-pink ring around them. She was slender, like Usagi, and seemed very sad and guilty.
"Hi mommy. Hi daddy." said the girl. She had tear streaks across her cheeks. Usagi looked at Mamoru, who looked as stunned as she felt, and then back to the children. She couldn't help but open her arms to them. The two children fell into her and cried.
"Pluto?" Asked Mamoru, and the boy nodded, his head still buried in Usagi's neck. "Well we haven't picked your names out yet. You're only about thirteen weeks in there still. Can you tell us what to call you?
"She's Chibi-Usa and I'm Chibi-Mamo." The boy sniffled again, then pulled back and wiped his nose on the back of his hand.
***Jadeite & Rei***
Jadeite arrived at the Hikawah Shrine, still unsure why he had been called. Rei had simply told him to come and get her. She ran down the steps and got into Mamoru's car, which he was borrowing, and told him how to get to Ami's house; she and Zoicite would meet them there.
"Where are we going to end up?" he asked.
"Mamoru's apartment. Apparently they have someone they want us to meet. They weren't exactly forthcoming about it."
"So how have you been? I haven't seen you much since the wedding." Rei just shrugged. Clenching his hands around the steering wheel, Jadeite swallowed hard, worried about his next question. "Do you still hate me?"
Rei looked over at him in shock. "I never hated you!" she whispered. "I forgave you before I took my last breath. But..." she shook her head. "Usagi warned me to take it slow and think about what I wanted before I did anything. She said that being soul-mates can be wonderful, but it can also be torture. I didn't want either of us to get hurt, and we're so young..."
"Rei..." Jadeite trailed off. "My feelings from the past are the past. I want to get to know who you are in this life. I don't want to love a ghost. And I'm different in this life too. I had a family this time until Beryl... they died the day she took me." He sighed, unsure how he wanted this relationship to go, but unwilling to sit on the sidelines forever. "Did you know Mamoru and Usagi put us in the private high school?"
Rei nodded. "Yeah, Usagi said wanted to give you a chance at a normal life. I helped Ami with the papers." she smiled. "Plus, I think she wants you there to protect Mamoru. Ever since his breakdown..." She trailed off, not even sure he knew what had happened to the two of them.
"He told me about the assault." Jadeite whispered. "They both did. And they said you saw."
"It was horrible. The most horrible thing I've ever seen. I just stood there, frozen. I watched that man force him to hurt her, and then he kept pushing with his boot, so it hurt them both every time he moved. And the gun was at her neck and they were crying and Mamoru was screaming for someone to help and I just stood there..." she trailed off, lost in the horror of that moment.
Jadeite patted her shoulder. "I can't exactly understand, but I'm here. Even as just a friend, okay?" Rei nodded. "Do you know what the people at the Moto-Azabu call Usagi?" he asked. Rei shook her head. "Tsuki Tenshi"
"Moon Angel. I like it. Why do they call her that?"
They had pulled up in front of Ami's apartment building so he turned to look at her. "Because when Mamoru finally broke down she came to get him. No one had called her, she just appeared. She walked in and they say she healed him with her words."
"She loves him." Rei said simply.
The back door opened and Zoicite and Ami climbed in. "Hi guys. The others are already on their way over. Who do you think they want us to meet?" Ami asked.
"No idea," Rei told her, "but they said it was important."
"What have you two been up to?" Jadeite asked, a little jealous that Ami seemed to already be accepting Zoicite while he was struggling to even get Rei's attention.
"We were putting together some of the new medical equipment. Brain," Zoicite pointed to Ami. "Brawn," he pointed to himself.
"Did you guys go up to the new medical area?" Ami asked them. "Mamoru thought about putting it in the apartment, and then he just decided to use a whole apartment for it so that if people were there overnight they wouldn't get woken up by the babies." She sighed, looking out the window after she spoke.
"What's wrong?" Zoicite looked at her carefully.
Ami laughed, "nothing silly! I'm just excited to see the babies."
"We'll be waiting a long time for that!" Rei laughed.
***Minako***
Minako laughed as Makoto walked on her hands. Her friend seemed very happy today, and Minako could guess why. "Pay attention silly, there's glass on the sidewalk."
Makoto dropped her feet to the ground and stood. "I just feel great today! Nephrite asked me out! He wants to go dancing! Says he wants to know me as I am now, but he likes who he sees. He claims..." and for a moment she frowned, "he says I was much more serious before and he likes seeing me have fun. I wasn't too serious was I?"
"Nah. It was all the etiquette and rules and expectations. I like Earth much better. We never really got a chance to even be kids. We were at court so young..."
Minako suddenly barreled into a large warm chest. She new before she even looked up it was Kunzite. He stooped down and kissed her forehead. "Why such a frown?" he asked.
"In our past lives... Did you ever get a chance to just be a kid?"
"Nah. We were princes of the realms and had to protect the Earth prince. I think I was in training when I was four. Jadeite and Zoicite though," he smiled. "Those two and Endymion had the palace staff in terror with their pranks, right up until Endymion was about sixteen or seventeen, I think. No, I think Nephrite and I were much more serious about our duties."
"Kinda the same thing for me, but some things were before I could even walk. Makoto?"
"Exactly the same." She smiled up at Nephrite. "Same for you?" He nodded his head. "This is too depressing. So, does anyone know who were going to meet?"
"No clue," Kunzite said finally. "Just that whoever it is, is very important.
Nephrite looked up as the four of them closed in on the building. "You know our apartments are ready? Mamoru told me this morning."
"That's great. I was wondering when we could get out of the arcade. Motoki's family was great to put us up and all, but there is really nothing up there. No television or books." Kunzite was becoming slightly addicted to something called Reality TV. It was a bunch of cameras following around people who were definitely not living in a real world way, and Mamoru insisted it was all fake, but he still liked it.
"Oh, Ami asked me to tell everyone we are meeting on the other side of the lake for the solar eclipse on Thursday."
"Will someone remind me later? Lately I keep forgetting what day it is." Nephrite asked. He had been so involved in catching up to his classmates he hadn't really had time for anything else, except Makoto. For time with her he would give up almost anything.
"Do you know how rare a total solar eclipse is?" Makoto asked.
"Yeah. I definitely don't want to miss it!" Nephrite was smiling down at her and Minako saw him blush.
"Well its only Sunday, so you have time. Oh, did anyone see last weeks' Senshi Hour? They did a piece on you guys. And one on the Outer Senshi. And that video of Usagi! Oh my goodness, I wish I had been there!" Makoto laughed thinking about them replaying the bubbles video. She had downloaded it to her phone. It was so funny.
***Ami***
They met at the apartment door and Ami knocked. Mamoru opened the door, and they all filed in. Haruki was already there, sitting in one of the armchairs. The living room had been rearranged with a bunch of chairs all over the place, but Ami didn't see anyone new. Usagi wasn't in sight either.
Mamoru motioned them forwards to sit, and once everyone was comfortable he stood in front of the television and explained. "Okay guys, here's the deal. You will have to be a bit calm and quiet because they have been through something terrible. Pluto, future Pluto, asked them not to speak about what happened, probably to protect the timeline."
Suddenly Usagi was in the hallway. Her hands were being held by two young children of perhaps seven or eight. One was a girl with pink hair, the other a boy with purple. Mamoru reached out for them. "Usagi and I would like to introduce you to our children. This," he said, picking up the little girl, "is Chibi-Usa."
"And this," Usagi said, holding the boy's shoulder, "is Chibi-Mamo."
Stunned silence filled the room. Finally, Ami made herself stand, and she walked to Mamoru and the little girl. She studied her eyes, her hair, her rosy cheeks. She knelt in front of the boy and did the same. Then she opened her arms and both children flew into them. "I love them already," she whispered. "They look so much like you it's almost scary!"
Questions started flying, though quietly, and the kids seemed to get upset. They hid behind their parents, holding hands tightly. Luna came out of the bedroom, looking sleepy. "Please quiet down!" she ordered.
"So, we have to get some records made for them Ami, if you could. We're going to have to pass them off as my cousins or something for now, because people wouldn't understand."
"Don't forget the other part Mamo-Chan!" Usagi hid a giggle behind her hand.
"Oh yes, the 'in the belly' versions of our children kicked today, so Usagi's belly is officially open for rubs... At her discretion!" He added that last bit because he had a mental image of Rei running down the street after her for more belly time. As expected she was first off her chair to fall at Usagi's feet. When she didn't immediately feel anything Mamoru told her the secret.
"If you make her laugh, they start kicking. I think they really like it." And so the battle began for who could get the most laughs out of Usagi. It had the added bonus of putting the two kids at ease.
"Hey, it's almost time!" Shouted Minako suddenly.
"Time?" asked Mamoru.
"Senshi Hour! It's Sunday night at 7:30! Technically it's only half an hour, but they do it every week, and they are awesome!"
"Anyone else interested?" All their guests said yes. Popcorn was popped and they all sat, him and Usagi now each holding a child in their lap.
Yuna: Sunday night in Tokyo! Time for the Sailor Senshi hour!
Miyu: Well, it's been a quiet few weeks hasn't it? I think we've all gotten so used to screams that we forgot what a peaceful life felt like! We've only had four Youma attacks since the night of the Fundraiser when the Senshi destroyed the big bad.
Aoto: That's right folks. So tonight, we will be focusing on everyone's favorite topic... Sailor Moon's growing belly!
Miyu: That's right Aoto... we've seen some pretty intense changes in the Moon Senshi over the past few weeks. But we have an adorable photo for you where she is in profile. Look here... Definite baby bulge! Let's put up a before shot. This picture is from just before Moon and Kamen seemed to disappear for a few weeks. Anybody else thinking secret wedding?
Aoto: From a couple experts we've guestimated her to be about four months along! Look at the difference. Her belly before is just slightly concave. I wonder how much she has to eat to keep on any weight at all. We have lots of speculation on the fan sites!
Yuna: Not to mention the most adorable video I've ever seen! I put it right above kittens and puppies playing with babies in the awe factor people. I mean seriously cute! So, the Senshi were in the park doing their training. We've all come to love the roof parties that gather when they do. It's become almost a citywide pastime!
Aoto: I was actually there the other night myself. A lot of kids were up there, and Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Kamen came up for a few minutes and talked to the little ones. It was really very sweet.
Yuna: Okay, so here's the video. You can see that Sailor Uranus is working with Moon, and they are trying to form a new combined attack. I think we all assumed they just came out of nowhere, but apparently that only happens for personal attacks or in rare cases... like Moon and Kamen, who now have four known combined attacks. Anyway, all of a sudden Sailor Moon starts yawning. And at this point its afternoon, and you can just tell she's had a long day. Sailor Uranus walks up to her and they talk for a minute, and you can see Moon swaying here a little on her feet.
Aoto: I absolutely love this part!
Yuna: Here we go, the belly starts to glow and we're all wondering what's going to happen this time. Then she just drops... And look; big warm comfy bed! And everyone is pushed away by that shield of hers. You can see the other Senshi trying to get to her, but Kamen and the Shitennou aren't with them. Probably doing training of their own, or maybe in school... Anyways, the Senshi are absolutely freaking, beating at the shield, and little Moon just sleeps right through it.
Miyu: Pay attention to this... focus right here on the screen... You see Sailor Mercury press a button on this device, and you can tell she's talking to someone. The others are still trying to get to Moon, but she says something to them and they all just sit down in a circle around the edges of the shield.
Aoto: Watch this folks...
Yuna: If you watch the left side you can see in 3...2...1... Tuxedo Kamen. He doesn't look upset in the slightest. I think maybe they must be able to tell when the other is okay or something, because we've all seen him freak out over her, but this time he seems cool as a cucumber. Now watch...
Miyu: See how he just walks right through the shield like it isn't even there? He picks her up and walks away, and the shield stays around them the whole time. And right here... See... he looks down at her, smiles, and there... a kiss on her nose. And then they're gone.
Yuna: *sniffles* Isn't that just about the most romantic thing you've ever seen?
***Michiru***
"Is everything ready?" Haruka asked, peering around the edge of the kitchen doorway.
"No," Michiru grumbled, puffing out her lower lip to try and blow the hair out of her face.
Haruka reached on top of the refrigerator and pulled down one of the clips that seemed to end up everywhere. She moved up behind her soulmate and took her hair gently between her fingers. Moving carefully, she pulled the curly mass of hair back and clipped it behind Michiru's head. Then, because she could, she planted a kiss on Michiru's neck, which made her giggle and pull away.
"Quit it," the beauty scolded playfully. "You'll mess me up."
Leaning her chin on Michiru's shoulder, Haruka stared at the cake. It was a mix of blues and purples with little sprinkles of what could only be solid sugar. On the top, Michiru had designed a perfectly formed unicorn with a silver horn on it's head and the hint of a rainbow at it's feet.
"That looks amazing. Almost too good to eat," she complimented, wishing she could eat a bit already.
"You'd better hope everyone eats it," Michiru groused. "If I have to bring it home we will all need to go on a diet."
"I wouldn't mind watching you work out," Haruka joked, reaching up to swipe a bit of frosting off her cheek. "Do you need any help?"
"I'm finished, as you well know or you wouldn't have come into the kitchen." Michiru's raised eyebrow meant she knew very well that Haruka had been hiding. She blushed slightly, then covered up her blunder by lifting her soulmate up and spinning her around. With Michiru laughing, Haruka nabbed the frosting left in the bowl and ran to the bedroom with her prize, and their snack.
Date Unknown
***Rubeus***
In the darkness of the Black Moon, preparations were being made for a very important journey. Plans had changed since they'd met their newest ally. Queen Nehelinia was helping them move forward much faster than they could have otherwise. Now the Black Moon Clan would travel to Earth, and they had a score to settle, and energy to gather.
Five were preparing, four women and one man, and many knew it was likely one or more would not return. But they had one goal. Sailor Moon. And if they had to betray their new-found friend? So be it...
Rubeus frowned as he watched the girls preparing. The Prince had come into the chamber, and everyone was scurrying around him, trying to curry favor. Rubeus stayed away, knowing Dimande had been in a temper. He didn't want that temper to turn on him or the girls, so he stayed back and made sure everything was in order, including their three companions, who had come from the past to meet them.
January 6
***Hotaru***
"Why are you dragging me?" Hotaru asked, slightly annoyed but mostly curious as Haruka practically carried her down the hallway to Mamoru and Usagi's apartment. "And where did Michiru go?"
"She'll meet us there," Haruka announced, not slowing her walk at all.
Hotaru couldn't help laughing. "Now I know why you're in such a rush," she said, and broke into gales of laughter when her practically adopted parent blushed.
"One day you'll understand," Haruka grumbled, pretending to glare at her.
Hotaru already knew all too well what it would be like to miss her soulmate. She hadn't said anything yet, but she knew who he was. She doubted anyone else had figured it out yet, but every time she saw him Hotaru just wanted to weep. He didn't know her. He didn't even know his sister was Sailor Moon. It was horrible to see that blank, unknowing look on his face when he saw her. It was horrible that when she showed up at his house, he didn't come running out to see her the way Michiru and Haruka ran for each other. She wondered why he hadn't remembered her, but she was afraid to ask.
"Why do you suddenly seem so sad?" Haruka asked, slowing just in front of the door.
"It's okay Ruka," Hotaru said, pasting on a fake smile. "I was just thinking about soulmates."
"Ah," Haruka gave Hotaru a hard hug. "Don't worry. You'll find yours. Closer than you think, I'll bet."
"You know!" Hotaru accused.
"Wait," Haruka knelt on the ground in front of Hotaru. "You know who he is?"
"Of course I do!" Hotaru waved her hands wildly in exasperation. "I have some of my memories. How could I be in the same house with him and not know?"
"I guess we just assumed you wouldn't remember him until he woke up." Haruka said softly, looking sad. "Ru, I'm sorry. Usagi doesn't seem to remember, so we haven't said anything yet."
"Why?" Hotaru asked, surprised to find herself crying. She swiped at the tears on her cheeks and trained her eyes on Haruka's incredibly bright blue ones.
"Mostly because she is already so stressed we were afraid this would send her over the edge. She's pregnant, and after what she and Mamoru went through she has a lot of mixed feelings about that. Besides, she's young and has the fate of the world on her shoulders."
"Weight," Hotaru corrected.
"It fits better," Haruka answered, looking right into Hotaru's eyes. "Can you be patient for a little longer? If she doesn't remember by the time the babies are born, we will tell her."
"Promise?"
"I promise."
Hotaru sighed, then nodded. She could be patient a bit longer. She bit her lip. What was one more birthday without her soulmate. She could get through this, right? Who knew, maybe next year she would actually have a party, and maybe she would have a boyfriend to throw it for her. She couldn't even remember what a birthday party felt like. Her mother had always thrown them, and Hotaru had been so young when she'd died.
Shaking her head to get out of her thoughts, Hotaru put on a bright smile. She could get through this birthday. She would bet the next one would be the best of her life.
"Come on," Haruka said, breaking her out of her thoughts. "Let's go see Michiru and the others."
"Don't tell her I know," Hotaru pleaded.
"For now, I won't. If you want to change that, let me know."
"Thanks Haruka-papa," Hotaru said, hugging her hard.
"You're welcome. They'll be wondering where we are."
Haruka threw open the apartment door. Nothing. It was dark and quiet. Hotaru took a deep breath, ready to transform in a heartbeat, but suddenly there was both light and sound as someone flipped the switch and more than a dozen teens jumped up and shouted "Surprise!" at the top of their lungs.
Laughing with shock and delight, Hotaru stepped into the apartment and was quickly overwhelmed with hugs. Seconds after she was in the door, she found herself in the most comfortable and comforting arms she had ever felt. Looking up through the strands of long, wavy, lavender-blue hair flowing around her, she hugged Ikuko tighter.
"I brought you a present," Ikuko said, grinning. "It belonged to my twin sister. I was cleaning the other morning and found it. Usagi will get my things, and Setsuna will probably get most of her things, but this was from when she was young and I thought of you when I saw it, so I really hope you enjoy it."
"Are you sure?" Hotaru asked, knowing Akiko, Ikuko's twin sister, had died long ago. A gift like that was rare and precious, and Hotaru was still young.
"Very sure. This was hers when she was about your age." And Ikuko handed Hotaru a small package.
"I wanted to see!" Usagi was jumping up and down as she reached them. "You are going to love them!" she announced, leaning over and staring at the package.
Hotaru glanced around and realized every eye in the room was on her. And one of those pairs of eyes was hauntingly familiar. She didn't know why, but when Hotaru opened the package, she didn't take her eyes from Shingo's. He was staring at her, half hidden behind his father, and a hint of red touched his cheeks. She opened the wrappings and finally looked down to see a pair of earrings that must have been made by Akiko herself, or perhaps by Ikuko as a gift.
The earrings were made from some sort of blue crystal, and had been shaped to look like a full moon. On the surface of the moon on each earring was an etching of a wolf. But they were wrong somehow. As though fanciful kids had designed them. Instead of being normal wolves, they were purple, black, and silver. And they had wings. Still, it was a wonderful gift, and they were very well made.
"I love them," she announced, immediately removing the studs she had in and replacing them with the new set. They moved happily whenever she turned her head. And when Hotaru looked up, she caught Shingo staring at her, looking as though he wanted to speak, but perhaps was shy.
"Now you have to eat your cake before any more presents," Haruka said mock-scolding. She laughed, spoiling the impression, but Hotaru felt like she was flying. She couldn't even feel the floor under her feet. For the first time since her mother had died, Hotaru felt like she had a family.
"How did you know?" she asked Michiru as they gathered around the table.
"Thank Ami. We didn't know the date so she looked it up."
"Can I has some cake too?" Chibi-Mamo asked, tugging at the hem of Hotaru's shirt.
"Of course. I'll get you and Chibi-Usa each a big piece, okay?" Hotaru whispered. The younger child nodded his head, grinning up at her. He looked so much like his father that it was startling for a moment. She could see the king he would one day become. He would have a great weight on his shoulders some day.
"Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday dear Hotaru! Happy Birthday to you!" As Hotaru closed her eyes, there was only one thing left she could image that would make her happier. She wanted Shingo to remember who she was to him, and to learn again to love her. With a great big breath, Hotaru blew out the candles and sent her wish out into the world.
January 7
***Nephrite***
Nephrite looked at his watch. It was only six-thirty in the morning, but here he was, standing outside Mamoru and Usagi's door, having been dragged most of the way by a happy and skipping Makoto. He couldn't help smiling every time he looked at her.
Almost as soon as he knocked Chibi-Mamo opened the door. There was a yell from the kitchen, "Don't open the door unless you know who it is!" But it was too late, as Nephrite was already being pulled inside by his excited soulmate.
Mamoru and Usagi came into the room. "Usagi!" Makoto practically screamed. She threw herself at her best friend and pulled her away from Mamoru. "Sorry, I have to steal her. I promise it's only for a minute." She pulled the girl down the hall and they disappeared.
Nephrite laughed. Apparently girls told each other everything! Mamoru gave him a knowing look and he blushed. "Is it written on my forehead or something?" He asked quietly, hoping the children didn't hear.
"No," answered Mamoru with a smile. "It's on your neck!" He laughed as Nephrite ran into the bathroom. Sure enough this morning Makoto had left several hickeys on him. She'd covered her own with make-up, but as he didn't wear any, he would probably get bothered at school.
"Here," said Mamoru quietly, and handed him a pale compact. "Use this." Nephrite looked down at the makeup in his hand, then back in the mirror, debating whether it was worse to face the questions or something worn by girls. Mamoru took it back and started applying the chilly powder. "We actually knew last night. Usagi and I could hear the music and we knew it was the two of you. I have one question, and I won't ask anything else."
"Okay?" Nephrite wasn't sure what to expect.
"Did you use a condom?" Nephrite blanched. He hadn't even thought of it, and Makoto was only sixteen! He shook his head and lowered his eyes in shame.
"I never thought... I didn't... what if she?" But he couldn't continue.
"Just ask her if she's on the pill." He said in a gentle tone. Nephrite moved, going towards the bedroom where the girls were still giggling and talking, but Mamoru stopped him. "No, ask her now. In her mind." Nephrite smiled. He'd forgotten about that.
::Mako-chan?::
::What's up?::
::I didn't use protection. Are you on the pill?::
::Yes. I watched the assault and saw my best friend throwing up for three months. I am most definitely on the pill, and I never miss a dose.::
::Thank Kami!::
::No... Thank ME!:: and he could hear her laughter in his head. It made him smile.
::I love you.::
::I love you too! Now give me one more minute with Usa.::
He looked up at Mamoru, who was already smiling. Obviously his relief had been evident. "Some of the girls talked to Ami's mom after we found out Usagi was pregnant. I was pretty sure she was one who started taking them. One of the girls refused, but I don't know who, so you might want to quietly warn the others to use protection if and when they are ready."
Nephrite readily agreed.
January 9
***Ami***
Ami put several bottles of water into her subspace pocket. She wanted to make sure Usagi stayed hydrated. She already had a cup and a pencil, just in case her friend got the hiccoughs again. As funny as it had been to see bubbles floating all around the apartment, she didn't like to see Usagi in pain. This was going to be a great day. They had chosen a spot on the far side of the pond, one which was rarely used except by them, and they would have a great view.
Zoicite called out from the living room, asking if she was ready to go. He seemed to always be around now, and while she enjoyed his company, she wondered if he even realized he had his own place. She smiled and shouted she'd be out in a minute.
Ami reached back into the fridge and pulled out some apple juice. It was Usagi's newest craving. One day she wanted to have her own babies. But not anytime soon. No, she had plans for her own future, and to an extent, plans for Zoicite's as well.
She thought about little Chibi-Usa and Chibi-Mamo who already had their soon-to-be parents wrapped around their little fingers. It was interesting to see two beings who were both in Usagi's belly, and in their lives. She worried about the consequences though, if they ever truly touched their younger selves. Setsuna had said it was likely nothing would happen, but she called it a paradox, and said that if time was already messed up, something as small as a single touch could cause destruction.
Ami hurried out into the living room. Zoicite grabbed her hand and pulled her out of the apartment. She couldn't help grinning up at him. He smiled back, stopping in the middle of the hallway, and for a moment she thought he might kiss her. Then he shook his head and tugged her hand, pulling her towards the elevator.
***Mamoru***
Chibi-Usa and Chibi-Mamo were finally ready to go. It had taken what seemed like a year to find shoes and get snacks ready. Mamoru chuckled. He could only imagine what it would be like right after they were born. He and Usagi got them out of the apartment, and into the elevator.
"How are you feeling now? Any better?"
Usagi had woken up with extreme morning sickness and dizziness, but she seemed to be fine now. He was glad they had the day off school though, so he could keep an eye on her. Usagi nodded her head and gave him a small smile. He knew she was probably still feeling the effects. Each of them had a tiny hand holding their own, so he couldn't just pick her up and cuddle her.
A floor down one of his neighbors, a kindly man named Kato-san who had two dogs under his arms, got into the elevator with them. "Mamoru-kun, Usagi-kun!" He greeted warmly. "How are the little ones this morning?" He nodded to her belly.
"Good. Still making me a touch nauseous, but that seems to be going away."
"And how are the mini-mes?" he asked looking at Chibi-Usa and Chibi-Mamo. They both grinned up at him, and asked if they could pet the dogs. He smiled and let the animals down. The children rushed to receive enthusiastic kisses from the equally rambunctious canines.
"I think they're doing well now. We got them into school. We still have to move to the top floor this weekend, but once that's done we'll be able to fully settle them in." Usagi talked easily to everyone. Mamoru loved that about her.
"Are you going to watch the eclipse today?" Mamoru asked his neighbor.
Kato-san nodded. "Got those special glasses already so I wouldn't have to buy them there. Did you see the prices last time? Ridiculous!" The doors opened and they spilled out into the street.
Haruki was waiting for them, and grabbed Chibi-Usa with one arm, and Chibi-Mamo with the other, lifting them off their feet for a hug. "How are my favorite munchkins today?" he asked. They giggled as he lifted them up and hugged tight. He'd become their favorite play-mate.
Getting to the park was made more difficult because of all the pedestrians they passed. Everyone was pointing and laughing, so they didn't mind the leisurely pace. By the time they arrived, most of the others had met up with them or had already arrived to claim their spot. There were four large blankets set up in a square, and they all removed their shoes and sat down to wait for the main event. The eclipse itself wouldn't be for a little longer, so Mamoru took a moment to watch the interactions of the Senshi and Shitennou.
::Ami and Zo will fall next!:: he pointed out to Usagi. She nodded and smiled.
::I keep giving her assignments he has to help her with.::
::My crafty little matchmaker.:: Mamoru grinned at her as Chibi-Mamo crawled into his lap. Chibi-Usa had her head on Usagi's knee, and was busily playing with her Luna-P ball. Chibi-Mamo pulled his Artie-P out as well and they pretended the cats were talking to each other. The little orbs could perform simple tasks, and a few that were more complex, but they didn't talk to each other. He made a mental note that when the children returned to their own time, future him would ask future Ami to add that capability.
::I can't believe how quickly I fell in love with these two.::
:It's like we already knew them. I mean in a way they're already making themselves known.:: She rubbed her growing belly.
People were pointing up now and putting on their eclipse glasses. He secured a pair over Chibi-Mamo's eyes, while Usagi did the same for Chibi-Usa. Once everyone was protected they all watched as the moon covered the sun. It lasted several long minutes, and was quite beautiful.
Suddenly, Usagi had to move the little girl and rush to the bushes to be violently ill. She felt like something horrible had just arrived and telegraphed her panicked thoughts to Mamoru. Her stomach reacted violently to her fear, and she vomited again. Mamoru decided to take her home, and Haruki volunteered to watch the little ones so she could sleep.
Ami promised she would come over as soon as the mess was cleaned up, and Mamoru picked Usagi up despite her protests and carried her back to the apartment. She brushed her teeth and he helped her get comfortable on the bed settling next to her to wait.
Ami scanned her the moment she arrived and found nothing wrong with Usagi or the babies.
"I'm telling you," Usagi muttered, "something evil just got here." She shuddered again, and started hiccoughing bubbles.
"At least the babies are okay," Ami offered, pulling the cup and pencil out.
January 10
***Usagi***
Usagi felt a strangeness in the air, a twisting that told her something was wrong. She was in the middle of getting the kids ready for school, and she sent out a mental flash to Mamoru. ::Incoming! I feel a wrongness, like with Youma but different. It reminds me of an oil spill. I can't explain it, but something is coming.::
Mamoru was still in the shower, but she heard the water turn off mid-thought and he came out as Tuxedo Kamen. He looked to the bedroom where the kids were still getting ready for school and back to her, unsure what to do.
"I'm calling the Senshi," she said pressing the button. After explaining the feeling to Ami she asked if the girl could track it, but without any data there was nothing she could look for. Instead, Usagi called Makoto. "Makoto, send Nephrite over and have him take the kids to my mom. There's something out there. I can sense it and Tuxedo Kamen I will follow the feeling.
A moment later Nephrite appeared in the living room. "I've got them he promised, and went down the hall. "By the way, Ami said our communicators will be ready tonight!"
Sailor Moon had already appeared, her sparkling silver and gold fuku with the crescent cradle on the belly reflected the early morning sunlight as she and Tuxedo Kamen leapt from the balcony. It was more obvious in the skin-tight, stretchy material that she was pregnant. He thanked the heavens for her force field, as they moved through the city.
They found the enemy in the shopping district, in a cosmetics shop, where it had incapacitated the other workers, and was attempting to sell cursed products to the customers, who were backing away in fright. Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Kamen arrived, and used one of their combined attacks.
"Moonlit Rose Spiral," They shouted in unison. She was standing in front of him, with his arms held over hers and his hands just above hers on the moon wand. There was a burst of spiraling, sparkling light, and roses of four colors exploded into the creature. When it was overcome it briefly morphed into what looked to be a robot, and then disappeared into dust.
"That was fast," said Mercury, appearing behind them. She'd followed them most of the way. "I did get some data, but I think I need to scan one or two more to be certain."
"In the meantime," Sailor Moon said, "We need to make some contingency plans so we aren't caught off guard. Maybe we can meet after the move tomorrow if everyone isn't too tired."
Mercury smiled and agreed. The left the shop and made it to the nearest roof. "I don't know if you heard, but I finished the new communicators. There's just a little testing to do, but I think I can get them to everyone tonight. I'll send Zo over with the ones I made for you two and the kids. I actually made theirs to fit in Luna P and Artie P." She sounded really excited about that. "Also, I devised a way to access the communicator tracking systems even in a subspace pocket so we can find the kids anywhere."
Sailor Moon called her mother, only to find the kids had already been brought to school, and that she and Tuxedo Kamen were going to be tardy if they didn't hurry.
January 11
***Usagi***
Moving day had arrived. It was made much easier by the ability to teleport, and most of the move was finished before noon. Usagi sat on the couch, where she had been ordered to stay and organize. She listened because her mother had told her lifting wasn't good during pregnancy. It had absolutely nothing to do with the bribe of chocolate milk shakes which were constantly being replaced by one or the other of the Shitennou, who seemed to find it a wonderful joke. Nope, she was just listening to some sound advice.
"So what are we calling the new monsters?" Nephrite looked up from where he was unpacking books.
"I was thinking droids," said Ami. "I mean that one they fought certainly turned into something like one before it vanished. And that mark on the forehead..."
"I'm more concerned with making sure the kids are always cared for during an attack. I'd hate to think what would happen to them in the crossfire." Usagi shuddered, thankful the children were safe with Haruka and Michiru for the day.
"I'm working on it," promised Ami. "We already know they have Senshi abilities. The shield, the projections. We've seen some of the things they play when they go to bed. I really liked all the butterflies," she added dreamily.
"Could they teleport?" Asked Haruki. "I mean we know all of you can, so why not them?"
"They could get lost," Mamoru said. "And when you get lost teleporting, it can be a disaster." He shuddered, remembering his attempt from the week before. "I'm not very proficient, and the girls still have to be walked through step by step unless they're together. No, they were sent to us for protection, and that means one, or all of us, will protect them."
"What I was thinking," Usagi said, trying to shift into a more comfortable position, "was that as I get bigger, I won't be able to move as fast. I'm already showing, and you know it will hamper my ability to get to and from a battle. If I can be the one to sit out, I will. It might make Rei happy," she added, frowning. "They can be close to me, inside the area of my shield, somewhere safe, like here or the Shrine."
"It's a good idea, but there are some things we still can't manage without you. You need to practice teleporting and self-defense, and the rest of us will work on increasing our own attacks. It's not like you can jump up in the middle of labor and go fight a monster, but I still don't think the rest of us are ready." Kunzite looked down at her with a small frown. She'd forgotten he was in the room.
"I know. This whole thing is strange though, don't you think? You remember how I felt during the eclipse? It's that same feeling only muted whenever a droid appears." She sighed, slurping the last of her shake. She set it on the table, and a moment later a laughing Jadeite was putting another one into her hand. She smiled up at him. She was afraid to hurt their feelings and tell them that too much ice cream was going to make her sick, so she dutifully sucked on the straw.
"Maybe we can do some training tomorrow, but today we have to finish this." Nephrite spun and disappeared, returning to the same spot a few seconds later with another box of books. "They're almost done down there."
Thank heavens, thought Usagi. She hastily excused herself and went to the bathroom.
January 12
*** Ami***
The second Droid appeared at nine in the morning. It was Artemis who discovered him first, but he was frozen almost immediately after letting them know. Usagi felt that same oozing oil over water feeling and called for Haruki to get the kids to safety and the others to find the creature. The new communicators worked great, and were much more versatile. You could watch a broadcast, have up to four people in a group visual, and have a text conversation at the same time.
The accompanying piece was now secured in the police station with officers Sato and Takahashi, who would decide if it was needed. Their piece couldn't do everything the fighter's could but it could broadcast and text and the officers could input a location from their end. Ami was so happy with it she wanted to shout, which was very unlike her.
Sailor Mercury arrived on the scene before the others thanks to the new features, because reports had come into the station. She scanned the creature and got much more data than she had the first time. She also got the impression she was being watched. She looked around, and standing on a corner was a woman with purple hair, part of it pulled up in conical buns. Her outfit as well was mostly purple and a shade of pink. Mercury stepped back and watched the woman in return, unsure if she was an innocent bystander or an actual enemy.
Sailor Moon, Tuxedo Kamen, Nephrite and Sailor Jupiter arrived then and while they took out the droid she carefully watched the woman, who looked angry as they dispatched the thing with ease. She saw the woman about to throw an attack from behind and lifted her hand without thought.
"Mercury Ice Field!" she screamed the new attack Usagi had been helping her create, and a wall of ice flew toward the woman. By the time it had reached her she was gone. She turned to the others, who were watching, and shrugged.
"Good job Mercury," Sailor Moon said. "That could have been very bad if you weren't here." Pride welled inside her and Mercury reached out and pulled Sailor Moon into a hug before they all dispersed.
Miyu: Welcome to the Sunday Night Sailor Senshi Hour! You are not going to want to turn this off folks. We have new problems in Tokyo, but thankfully our favorite heroes are at it again.
Aoto: That's right. Both attacks by these new monsters happened in the early morning. Our police liaison says they are being called Droids by the Senshi and Shitennou, and that they are every bit as dangerous as Youma were. So take precautions and make sure you spread the word.
Yuna: That's right folks. Officer Sato said she and her partner have already been visited by Sailor Moon, who has asked that if you see such a creature you immediately get out of the way and call the police. They can get word to the guardians.
Miyu: Sailor Moon seems to be working on something new. She appeared to be attempting a solo-teleport today. She disappeared twice and reappeared a few minutes later.
Yuna: I want to take a look at that waistline. No doubting it anymore. Definite baby belly. But according to the doctor I spoke to this morning, she is growing at a rate that might indicate two babies rather than one. She might be as much as three weeks less along than we assumed if that's the case, which would explain why she had another bout of morning sickness today.
Miyu: Poor girl. Those days were not fun, and she's so young too. The doctor we spoke to estimated her age to be around fifteen or sixteen, and says that can be more stressful on a pregnancy as well because at that age the puberty hormones are still going a bit crazy.
Aoto: The other Senshi and the Shitennou seem to be gearing up to fight without her if necessary. Sailor Mercury's new attack is incredible, and Sailor Mars' Fire Soul attack has definitely increased in strength.
Yuna: And we've seen them working on learning combined attacks. I just wonder what it is they seem to be preparing for, because whatever it is, it seems big.
Legacy of Dark Endymion Character Guide
(More characters will be added as they appear in the story)
Main Characters:
Tsukino Usagi (Sailor Moon) & Chiba Mamoru (Tuxedo Kamen)
Mizuno Ami (Sailor Mercury) & Sasake Zoicite (South Knight)
Hino Rei (Sailor Mars) & Sasake Jadeite (West Knight)
Kino Makoto (Sailor Jupiter) & Yoshida Nephrite (East Knight)
Aino Minako (Sailor Venus) & Ine Kunzite (North Knight)
Kaiou Michiru (Sailor Neptune) & Ten'ou Haruka (Sailor Uranus)
Meiou Setsuna (Sailor Pluto) & Kazuo Haruki (Sun Knight)
Tomae Hotaru (Sailor Saturn) & Tsukino Shingo (Blue Moon Knight)
Current Enemies:
Wiseman
Prince Dimande
Saphir
Esmeraude
Rubeus
Petz
Calaveras
Koan
Berthier
Supporting Characters: (* means created character)
Furuhata Motoki & Nishimura Reika (altered)
Osaka Naru & Umino Guiro (altered)
Tsukino Ikuko & Tsukino Kenji - Usagi's parents
Grandfather Hino - Runs Hikawah Shrine, Rei's Grandfather
Mizuno Saeko - Ami's Mother, doctor
Osaka Nozomi - Naru's mother
*Osaka Mayumi - Mamoru's Favorite Teacher
Haruna Sakurada - Usagi's favorite teacher
*Officer Takahashi - Male cop; promises to keep secret
*Officer Sato - Female cop; promises to keep secret
*Aoto - Sailor Senshi Hour Host
*Yuna - Sailor Senshi Hour Host
*Miyu - Sailor Senshi Hour Host
*Yodu - Punk kid who feels entitled… rich
Animal Guardians/Guides: (* means created character)
Luna - Usagi's Guardian/Guide - Cat from Mau
Artemis - Minako's Guardian/Guide - Cat from Mau
In Crystal:
Beryl
Enemies who Cannot be Saved:
Metalia