Choices

By: ShadowQueenGalactica


Disclaimer: I do not own anything affiliated with Sailor Moon. I do not own the rights to any of the songs related to Sailor Moon.

Author's Notes: This is one of my older stories, going through and trying to fix all the cringy typos. I'm also going to be adding some scenes that I thought the original was seriously lacking. Hope you guys enjoy the revised version of Choices.

Revised: 3/24/2021


Review Replies: Thank you so much for leaving a review:

-Guest

-TropicalRemix


:: Chapter 1: A New Enemy::

Scanning the sky for the red butterfly as she ran along the sidewalk, Usagi glanced back and groaned out in dismay when seeing the long distance she was putting between her and her apartment. "I should have taken my car." She tiredly grumbled, sighing out in frustration wondering where the small butterfly was leading her. Wrapping her arms around her from a gust of wind, she shivered as the cold brisk autumn air cut through her cotton pajama bottoms chilling her even more. 'I should have dressed warmer too.' She miserably thought, regretting her many mistakes. Realizing she'd lost sight of the small butterfly as she mentally chastised herself, she stopped in a panic, scanning the night sky in search of the shimmers of power that radiated from the small red insect. 'Damn, where did it go?' She thought with a brief moment of panic.

Spotting the small butterfly once more, Usagi breathed a sigh of relief before running across the street. Noticing the park's entrance in the distance, she continued to follow the small flutters of the winged being wondering who would be waiting for her in the park. 'Has something happened?' She worriedly thought, thinking of her three friends and their Princess as she entered through the gates of the park's entrance.

Trying to keep her gaze on the path and the butterfly, Usagi growled out in frustration when seeing she'd lost sight of the butterfly once again. "Where did you go?" She worriedly called out, looking around the night sky for its soft shimmer of power. Startled when it fluttered past her, she watched as it fluttered in the direction of the rose gardens. "Wait for me!" She called out, quickly going in pursuit once more.

Cautiously approaching the gardens, Usagi immediately halted her steps, her heart nervously beating when hearing the muffled sounds of crying. 'Is that a child?!' She thought with shock and sudden apprehension, as she swiftly ran forwards. Running along the familiar garden paths, she felt her fear grow as the cries became more clear revealing a child was crying. Running forwards in the direction of the soft cries, Usagi desperately glanced around the darkness, looking for any sign of a child hiding in the shadows. 'Where are you?' She worriedly thought with panic, unable to locate the source of the cries as she ran deeper into the gardens.

Sighing in relief as the cries grew louder and clearer as she neared the center of the gardens, Usagi abruptly stopped when seeing the small shadow of a body kneeled on the ground. Turning her head as the butterfly fluttered past her, Usagi silently stood wondering how she should approach the small shadowed figure. Hearing soft tearful sniffles sound from the shadowed silhouette, she could make out a small hand escaping the shadows, reaching out for the butterfly. Hearing a soft startled gasp from the silhouette, Usagi quietly watched the small child suddenly stand, and take a few steps away from her retreating farther into the safety of the shadows.

"Wait." Usagi pleaded, reaching out as she spoke. "It's alright sweetie, I won't hurt you." She gently stated, slowly kneeling on the ground, afraid she would frighten the small child away if she dared to take a step forward. "Are you alright?" She worriedly asked. "Are you here with someone?" Glancing around to see if there was any sign of anyone else around, she felt her stomach nervously twist realizing the child was alone. "It's alright, take your time. I'm not going to hurt you, I promise." She urged, smiling in relief as the small figure cautiously stepped forward into the soft glow cast from one of the light posts. 'How old is she?!' She thought, eyes widening in shock at how young the small child was. 'She- She's still a baby, she can't be any older than two!' Her mind reeled in her shock. The small girl's reddish-orange hair was disarrayed, she wore a long deep red dress with a blue bodice and puffy sleeves.

'It can't be, could this be Princess Kakyuu-sama's child?!' Usagi thought, tightly closing her eyes as the same voice weakly called out to her one final time. "Something terrible has happened, hasn't it?" She worriedly asked, the fear in the toddler's violet eyes confirming her suspicions as their gazes met for a brief moment. "It's alright." She urged, tears streaking her cheeks as the toddler cautiously approached her. "I'm a friend to Kinmoku." She assured the child, unsure if the small child comprehended what she was saying as she watched the toddler curiously tilt her head at the mention of the distant planet.

"Is Princess Kakyuu-sama your mama?" Usagi worriedly asked, her heart breaking as tears shone in the child's eyes at the mention of the Kinmoku Princesses name.

"Mama." The child tearfully whimpered, tears streaking her small cheeks as she began to cry for her lost mother.

"It's alright sweetie, I'll help you find her." Usagi promised, standing and walking towards the child. Embracing the small child to offer her comfort, Usagi gave the small child a gentle squeeze as she tried to soothe the little girl from her tears. "Are you here all by yourself?" She worriedly asked, glancing around the surrounding area once more. "Did you come here with someone? Do you know Seiya-chan or Sailor Star Fighter?"

"Sei-chan." The small child happily stated, quickly perking up at the name of the guardian as she happily looked around her surroundings then. Not seeing the guardian anywhere in sight, she tilted her head at the blonde before she curiously spoke. "He go?" She asked, raising her small arms in question as she asked.

"I don't know, but we'll find him, I promise." Usagi responded, tearfully smiling before she spoke. "I need you to come with me. You can stay with me until we find Sei-chan and your mama." She requested while offering her hand to the girl. "I'm Usagi, you can call me Usa, if that's easier for you." She said with a smile, watching the little girl look down at her hand with a brief moment of hesitation before placing her small hand into hers.

"Usa-chan?" The child responded with a shy smile as she rested her hand into the young woman's hand. Sensing a warmth similar to both her mother and the Guardians of her planet, she immediately eased under the safe presence the blonde's touch offered. Trusting her instincts that she could put her full trust into the woman before her, she watched a small gasp escape the woman's lips as she quickly removed her jacket.

Gasping at how cold the small child's hand was against hers, Usagi gently removed her hold from the child's hands as she quickly removed her jacket. Wrapping her jacket around the small child, Usagi gently scooped the little girl into her arms holding her close against her to offer her warmth and shield her from the cold night air. "You're safe now, sweetheart." She promised, protectively holding the small child against her. Smiling as the small girl snuggled deeper into her jacket, Usagi shivered as the cold wind cut through her pajamas. "Come on, let's get you back to my place where it's warm." She soothed the child, as she turned and quickly walked in the direction she'd entered.

Glancing down with a smile from the child's wiggles as she tried to snuggle more into the warmth of the jacket, Usagi abruptly stopped when sensing a powerful dark force. Feeling the same anxious feeling return, she instinctively tightened her hold on the child as the wind picked up suddenly growing colder. Feeling as if she was being watched, she nervously scanned the area realizing she was defenseless having left her brooch in her nightstand in her rush to leave earlier that night.

Hearing the child's small whimper sound as she sensed the ominous presence as well, Usagi nervously exhaled when nothing seemed out of place. 'Something or someone is watching us.' She worriedly thought, feeling her stomach tightly knotting with apprehension at the thought. "Let's get out of here." She stated, quickly hurrying her steps as she continued down the poorly lit paths wanting to leave the dark park and return to the safety of her apartment as soon as possible.


Watching from the top of one of the park's light posts, a figure shrouded in darkness watched in amusement as a blonde rushed through the park's exit the small Kinmoku Princess shielded from his sight.

Looking down at the incense burner in his hand, the figure angrily threw the small lantern to the ground watching it shatter below on the sidewalk. "I'll find you again in time Princess." The gruff voice sneered. "Your mother was foolish for sending you to such a primitive planet. These weak Terrans are no match against our superior power." He jeered, wickedly chuckling before he vanished from the top of the lamp post.


(Later That Night)

Nervously pacing her kitchen, Usagi tiredly sighed as she awaited her friend to arrive. Lifting her mug of tea from the counter, she blew onto the hot liquid before taking a small sip. 'Did I do the right thing contacting Rei-chan?' She worriedly thought, wondering if her friend would keep the small child's arrival a secret from the Outer Guardians.

::Knock Knock::

Jumping at the sound of the knock on the door, Usagi gently rested her tea against the counter, rushing to her door. Opening the door, she smiled at the sight of her raven-haired friend. "Re-chan, thank you for coming." She greeted, frowning when she could tell her friend was frustrated with her late night request to visit. "I'm sorry, Rei-chan. I know it's late, this c-" She began to apologize before she was abruptly interrupted by her raven-haired friend.

"What's going on Usagi-chan?" Rei abruptly interrupted her friend. "I still don't understand why this sudden visit couldn't wait until tomorrow." She tiredly grumbled as she walked into her friend's apartment. "It's almost two o'clock in the morning." She grumpily muttered before tiredly stifling a yawn.

"I didn't know who else to call." Usagi muttered, shutting the door with a soft click as Rei grumpily walked past her with a scowl.

"Don't you have a game tomorrow?" Rei curiously demanded, turning and looking at her friend with concern. "You should be resting, not calling me here for some late-night covert meeting."

"I can sleep on the bus, Rei-chan." Usagi responded, then nervously twisted her hands together trying to gather her courage before she spoke. "I- I was wondering if you could watch her for me tomorrow, Rei-chan?" She nervously requested, watching her friend raise her brow and look at her with confusion before quickly losing her temper.

"Her? Who are you talking about, Usagi-chan?" Rei demanded, finally losing her patience and temper with her best friend and Princess. "I swear if you called me over a lost puppy, Usagi-baka! I'm going to-" She angrily began to scold, her words muffled as Usagi abruptly clamped her hand over her mouth muffling her words.

"Shhh…" Usagi shushed, glaring at her friend, before lowering her hand and motioning her friend to follow. "She's in here, Rei-chan." She quietly stated, glancing back at her confused friend.

Curiously following behind her friend, Rei found herself more confused by her friend's sudden, odd behavior. 'Should I tell Haruka-chan and Michiru-chan?' She worriedly thought, thinking back to the lecture Haruka had given her for not telling them sooner about Usagi's sudden distant behavior while they had been away for Michiru's concerts. "What's going on, Usagi-chan?" She worriedly asked, noticing how tense her friend was becoming as they walked in the direction of her friend's small living room.

'I should have prepared better for this question.' Usagi thought, softly exhaling before she spoke. "I- well, we seemed to have found one another." She hesitated to explain, before motioning towards the small child who was peacefully resting on her couch.

"A child?!" Rei quietly hissed, shock evident on her face. "Who is she? Where did she come from?" She demanded, watching the child shift in her sleep. Gasping when she recognized the Royal dress the child wore, she abruptly looked at her friend watching her tearfully look at her. "Usagi-chan, is- is she from Kinmoku?" She asked in shock. "Are the others back as well? Were they-"

"It was only her, Rei-chan" Usagi quietly responded, tearfully looking over at the sleeping toddler for a moment before she spoke once more in a hushed voice. "She's so young Rei-chan, I can't get her to tell me her name." She said with a soft sigh. "Her speech is very limited, I'm not sure how old she is. I really wish Ami-chan were here, she would be able to perform a scan on her for us and give us these answers." She said, while quietly kneeling down on the floor next to the couch. Gently resting her hand against the sleeping child's back, she tearfully looked up at her friend. "I think something terrible has happened on Kinmoku." She softly stated, her voice wavering as she spoke.

"What do you mean, Usagi-chan? How could you know if something has happened?" Rei quietly asked, watching her best friend quietly stand and motion her to follow her towards the spare bedroom. "What is it Usagi-chan?" She sternly insisted as soon as they entered the bedroom. "What are you not telling me?" She demanded, stubbornly crossing her arms across her chest.

"I've been having the same nightmare for a while now." Usagi said, fighting back the tears shining in her eyes. "I- I think this little girl could be the reason why I was having these nightmares. I truly believe we were supposed to cross paths tonight."

"Why didn't you come see me about this? I could have helped you interpret these dreams, we could have figured this out together." Rei immediately scolded her friend, hurt that her friend did not turn to her for help.

"I wanted to, but I've been so busy with my classes, then all the afternoon training for my games." Usagi explained with a frown. "I'm sorry for keeping this from you, Rei-chan. I thought it was best if I just kept this to myself for the time being." She explained then jumped as a terrified scream erupted from the living room.

"Mama!" The tiny voice desperately cried out, sending Usagi to run out of the spare bedroom in a panic.

Running out of the bedroom, Usagi hurried down the hall not stopping until she was kneeling beside the frightened child. "It's alright sweetie, it was just a bad dream." She gently cooed watching the little girl tearfully fling herself forwards desperately clinging to her for comfort. Wrapping her arms around the small child, Usagi carefully stood, whispering soothing words as she rubbed the child's back in an attempt to comfort her.

"Mama!" The child's tearful wail responded, her voice muffled against Usagi's shoulder as her small form shook with her tears.

"Shh...shh...shh... it's going to be alright. I'm going to do everything I can to get you back to your mama." Usagi promised as she tried to comfort the distressed child.

Quietly walking into the room, Rei silently watched the toddler tearfully sneak a peek up at her, before tightening her hold on Usagi and burying her face into her friend's shoulder once more to hide from her. "Do you think she will let me watch her tomorrow?" She worriedly asked. "Should we contact-"

"We're not contacting anyone else about her." Usagi sternly interrupted her friend. "I'll be responsible for her, Rei-chan. I just need help with her tomorrow, then I can figure out what-"

"You're not doing this alone, Usagi-chan." Rei stubbornly stated in return. "I can watch her here or at the temple during your classes, whichever place you think she will be the most comfortable to be in." She volunteered, watching her friend tearfully smile up at her.

"Thank you, Rei-chan." Usagi tearfully responded, as she gently rubbed the small child's back trying to soothe her back into slumber. "She was so scared when I found her." She softly stated with a worried sigh. "I still can't shake this bad feeling that something terrible happened on Kinmoku."

"We'll protect her until her Guardians come for her." Rei promised, reaching out and gently touching the little girl's hand. Feeling the small child flinch at her touch, Rei sadly smiled wishing the small toddler could tell them what had happened. "I'm going to go back to the temple and get some rest before-"

"You can stay in the spare bedroom. It's a mess just like the rest of the apartment, but you can stay here if you would like." Usagi offered with a tired smile, as she gently swayed from side-to-side feeling the toddler snuggling closer against her from the gentle movements.

"Are you sure? I don't mind coming back in the morning." Rei responded, watching her friend smile at her before speaking.

"It's fine Rei-chan, you're already here." Usagi insisted, smiling at her friend. "I'll wake you before I leave. I should be going to bed soon, I have to get up and get ready for my game in about five hours." She said before tiredly yawning. "I'm going to see if she will lay down with me in my bedroom."

"Alright, goodnight Usagi-chan, I'll see you in the morning." Rei stated, smiling as her friend tiredly smiled in return before turning and walking in the direction of her bedroom.


(The Following Afternoon)

Tiredly stifling a yawn, Usagi softly exhaled as she struggled to keep her focus on the game. 'I'm so exhausted.' She miserably thought, snapping from her thoughts when hearing the crack of the bat hitting the ball. Turning her gaze up towards the sky she watched the ball hurtling into the air, its projection heading straight into her direction. Raising her gloved hand, she swiftly sprinted forward as if her life depended on it, hoping to reach the ball in time.

Grabbing onto the ball as it bounced onto the ground, Usagi swiftly turned in one motion throwing the ball towards second base, sighing in relief as her teammate successfully caught the ball. Glancing at the time on the scoreboard, she saw that there were only a few minutes left in the game, ahead in the game by two points. 'I'm going to miss this, I can't believe this is our last game.' She sadly thought, knowing the training and games had kept her mind occupied since the majority of her friends were no longer in Tokyo.

Turning her head at the sound of the bat cracking against the ball, Usagi watched as one of her other teammates successfully grabbed the ball, then tossed it towards another teammate. Glancing at the countdown, she watched with anticipation as time was down to its final seconds. Hearing the buzzer soon sound, she cheered along with her other teammates at their final victory for the season.

Walking off the field with her teammates, Usagi removed her glove as she kneeled beside her bag. Placing her bat into the bag, she lifted her glove next, carefully tucking it down into the bag. Glancing around to make sure she didn't forget any of her gear, she jumped when feeling a hand against her shoulder. Turning her head, she smiled when seeing Yumiko smile down at her, before he quietly knelt beside her to gather his gear that was resting next to hers.

"We're celebrating today's victory later tonight, Usagi-chan." Yumiko casually stated as he smiled over at the blonde. "Yukio-san is having her father reserve the team a spot in the VIP section at his club. The entire team is going to be there, so we can celebrate our final win for the season." He explained, frowning slightly when Usagi only forced a smile before silently nodding her head in response. "You're going right?" He asked, eagerly anticipating a moment where he would ask the blonde to dance with him.

"I won't be able to make it." Usagi responded, keeping her gaze down while she zipped her bag. "My cousin asked me to watch her daughter while she's out of town." She lied, noticing Yumiko's immediate frown when she glanced over at him.

"This was our last game Usagi-chan, is there anyone else that can watch her for you? You deserve to celebrate with the rest of us." Yumiko asked, disappointed the blonde was not going to the club to celebrate with the team.

"No, I'm really sorry, Yumiko-san." Usagi responded, feeling guilty about turning down the offer. "I hope you all have fun." She said while standing and lifting her bag to her shoulder.

Watching the blonde stand and lift her bag onto her shoulder, Yumiko frowned when noticing something else seemed to be bothering her. 'What are you really not telling me?' He curiously thought, wishing he could become close enough with the blonde to where she would eventually feel comfortable enough to confide in him.


(Three Hours Later)

Tiredly rubbing her face, Rei sighed out in exhaustion as she sat on the floor with an exhausted huff. Turning her gaze towards the sleeping child, her features softened as she sat and watched the little girl sleep. Growing concerned when hearing the little girl's soft sniffles in her sleep, she froze seeing the toddler shift slightly in her sleep. 'Please don't wake!' She thought with a sudden panic, exhaling with relief as the toddler remained asleep. 'I hope Usagi-chan returns soon, I don't know what else to do.' She thought with frustration, knowing the toddler had spent the majority of the day crying and asking for Usagi.

Turning at the sound of the door quietly opening, Rei quickly stood and walked towards the entryway where her friend was quietly unloading her things. Stopping and waiting for her friend, she watched Usagi drop her gear in the doorway, before taking notice of two shopping bags in her friend's hands. Seeing the exhaustion caused by the game clearly on her friend's face, Rei smiled as Usagi tiredly looked up at her. "How did the game go, Usagi-chan?"

"We won." Usagi tiredly responded, using what little energy she had left to muster a smile. "I'm finally done with the season." She stated, while kicking her shoes off, then suddenly noticed how quiet it was. "Is she sleeping?" She asked, watching Rei tiredly smile and nod her head in response. "I hope you don't mind, I wanted to stop and pick her up a few outfits on the way home. I can't have her walking around dressed in a royal gown." She explained, setting the two bags of clothing next to her equipment bag. "How was she for you, Rei-chan?" She curiously asked, taking notice of how stressed her friend looked.

"She cried for you the majority of the day, Usagi-chan." Rei responded, before tiredly sighing. "She finally cried herself to sleep maybe an hour ago." She stated, then frowned seeing the guilt in her friend's eyes as she quickly averted her gaze as she softly spoke.

"I'm really sorry, Rei-chan." Usagi apologized, reluctantly looking up when feeling Rei rest her hand against her shoulder. 'I really didn't mean to be a burden to Rei-chan.' She guiltily thought, then snapped from her thoughts hearing Rei speak.

"It's really not a problem, Usagi-chan." Rei responded with a small smile. "I get why she did it. She's just scared, that's all. You're the first one she's met, so she feels the safest with you. Just give her some more time, I'm sure she will warm up to me in time." She insisted, hoping to reassure her friend that she did not mind watching the small toddler.

"I'm going to go take a quick shower, you can go ahead and leave. You've already done so much for me today, thank you so much aga-" Usagi said, abruptly growing silent at the sound of an excited squeal and the hurried sound of footsteps.

"My Usa!" The toddler cried out, running as fast as her little legs could carry her, not stopping until she had successfully embraced the woman's leg. Happily smiling at the warm and protective feeling the woman radiated, she squealed out in delight as she was lifted into her safe, warm embrace. Resting her head against the blonde's shoulder, she happily giggled as the blonde planted a gentle kiss against her forehead as she spoke.

Smiling as the toddler happily rushed into the hallway towards them, Usagi laughed in amusement as the child happily embraced her leg before smiling up at her with a bright, happy smile. "Hi there." She greeted, warmly smiling down at the toddler. "Did you miss me?" She asked, gently lifting the toddler into her arms. "I missed you too." She said, kissing the toddler's forehead as the toddler happily embraced her before resting her head against her shoulder. "I'm home now, don't worry. You have the rest of the day with me." She promised while carrying the toddler in the direction of the living room.

Smiling at how protective and motherly her friend was acting over the toddler, Rei smiled more at the thought of how blessed Chibiusa was going to be to have Usagi as a mother one day. Knowing she needed a nap after the long strenuous morning with the emotional toddler, Rei gently cleared her throat before she spoke. "I'll stop by again sometime tomorrow evening, Usagi-chan. Perhaps seeing me again will help her feel more at ease with me for next time I watch her." She suggested, watching her friend smile and nod her head at the suggestion.

"Thank you again, Rei-chan. I appreciate you watching her for me today, I'll see you tomorrow." Usagi responded, watching her friend smile once more before turning and quietly leaving the apartment. Turning her attention back towards the smiling toddler who was clinging to her shirt for dear life, she smiled in amusement before a tired yawn escaped her lips. "Are you still sleepy? I need a nap, Usa is exhausted from her game." She tiredly stated while walking towards her bedroom.

Walking into her bedroom moments later, Usagi watched the toddler happily motion towards the bed.

"Seep!" The toddler sleepily instructed as she tried to wriggle out of the blonde's arms. "Me down!"

Setting the small toddler in the center of the bed, she smiled as the small child crawled towards the same spot she had slept the night before. Watching her nestle under the blankets, Usagi smiled as the toddler placed her small thumb into her mouth as she began to soothe herself into a deep slumber. Waiting until the toddler was sound asleep, Usagi quickly took the opportunity to go shower and relax her tired and aching muscles. Quietly gathering some clothes, she soon slipped out of the bedroom to take a quick shower before taking a nap herself.


(Later that Afternoon)

Walking down the campus path, Usagi smiled as she watched the toddler happily run ahead of her down the sidewalk. Gently laughing in amusement as the small child took notice of some leaves blowing across the sidewalk, she laughed watching the toddler swiftly go in pursuit of the leaves.

"My Usa!" The toddler happily cried out, smiling as she caught one of the retreating leaves. Rushing towards the young woman, she smiled as she presented her gift to the blonde. "Pwetty."

Smiling at how proud the child looked as she held up the leaf, Usagi gently scooped the toddler into her arms. "Is this for me?" She asked feigning awe as she looked at the leaf.

"Me." The toddler repeated with a happy giggle, pushing the leaf closer against the blonde's face.

"Thank you so much, I love it." Usagi responded, chuckling as the toddler squealed in delight before happily hugging her. Hugging the child back, Usagi smiled as she continued down the campus path making her way towards the library once more. "I need to pick up a few books then we'll go back home." She said, glancing over to see the toddler had taken notice of a flock of birds flying across the late afternoon sky. Watching the toddler excitedly point up towards the sky, she smiled before gently speaking. "I see the birds." She responded, smiling at the innocence and wonder the small toddler possessed.

"Birds." The toddler happily repeated, smiling as she pointed up towards the bright afternoon sky.

"Yes, those are birds." Usagi patiently said as she walked up the steps of the library. Pulling the door open, she entered the quiet library making her way towards the back where she went in search of the reference books she would be needing for her research paper.

Walking past the many aisles of books, Usagi soon stopped when spotting the aisle she needed. Glancing over her shoulder, she smiled as the child carried the brightly colored board book, clutching it against her chest as she looked at the many shelves in awe. "This way, my book should be down this aisle." She said, motioning the child to follow. Smiling down at the little girl walking alongside her, Usagi smiled at how differently the child looked wearing Earth clothes instead of the Kinmoku gown. Soon stopping in front of a section of books, she smiled with amusement as the child opened the book she was holding looking in awe at all the brightly colored pictures.

Turning her focus on the shelf of books once more, Usagi scanned through the many titles hoping to spot the book she was needing. 'I hope it's here.' She worriedly thought, knowing it was necessary for her assignment. Sighing in relief when spotting the book she was looking for, she smiled when feeling the toddler step next to her, tightly gripping onto the sleeve of her jacket. "Hold on sweetie, let me grab my book then I'll hold you." She responded, not sensing the presence approaching her, until a masculine voice spoke, startling her.

"So this is who you were talking about." Yumiko stated, smiling in amusement when watching Usagi jump at the sound of his voice. "Sorry I didn't mean to startle you." He chuckled, smiling more at how her cheeks turned a soft pink in her embarrassment. "I seem to be startling you a lot, here lately." He teased. "I promise it's not my intention."

"It's alright Yumiko-chan." Usagi responded with a gentle laugh, then glanced down as the child tightened her grip on her jacket. "To answer your question, yes, this is my cousin's daughter." She stated, smiling down at the toddler clinging to her. "Can you say hello to Yumiko-chan? She asked, watching the toddler bury her face against her arm hiding from Yumiko instead. "Sorry, she's a little shy."

"It's alright." Yumiko chuckled with a wave of his hand, dismissing the child's shyness. "Looks like we both had the same idea." He said motioning towards the book she was holding. "I've been putting off checking out my books." He admitted with a sheepish smile. "This paper is going to be long and tedious, I really shouldn't be procrastinating."

Smiling at his comment, Usagi looked down at the title of the book with a slight frown. "I agree with you, I'm still trying to figure out how I'm going to write a seven-page research paper on such a boring topic." She stated with a sigh of dismay. Feeling the child tightening her grip on her arm, she smiled down at the child carefully lifting her into her arms. Feeling the toddler's small arms wrap around the back of her neck, she felt the little girl rest her head against her shoulder once more.

"Here let me help you." Yumiko chuckled, noticing the blonde was struggling to carry the child and hold onto her books. Taking the three library books from her, he watched Usagi readjust the toddler in her arms. "How long will you be babysitting for your cousin?" He curiously asked as he walked beside her.

"I'm not sure yet." Usagi responded, smiling over at the young man who she had befriended. "My cousin is out of town for business, just depends on when she can make it here."

"Well if you need a break to study, let me know and I can help you watch her." Yumiko offered, smiling when Usagi looked at him with surprise. "I'm really good with children." He assured her, hoping he could convince the blonde to allow him to go to her place.

"Thank you for the offer, I really appreciate it, Yumiko-chan." Usagi said as they walked towards the checkout station. Watching Yumiko set the books on the counter, Usagi reached into her pocket removing her library card. Watching the librarian scan the card than her books, she smiled her thanks as the librarian handed her the books and the card. Watching Yumiko take the books from her, she felt him unzip her bag then place the books into the backpack for her. "Thank you, Yumiko-chan."

"You're welcome." Yumiko responded, giving the blonde one of his charming smiles. Noticing the toddler was warily watching him, he smiled as he turned his gaze towards the little girl. Chuckling when the toddler immediately buried her face against Usagi's shoulder once more, he shook his head with amusement before speaking to the blonde-haired beauty. "I'll see you in class next week, enjoy your weekend Usagi-chan."

"Thanks, you too Yumiko-chan." Usagi responded before turning her gaze forward silently walking towards the library exit. Glancing back once more as she pushed the door open, she blushed when seeing he was still watching her. Turning her attention forwards once more, she felt her stomach nervously flutter at the thought of the intensity his gaze had when their gazes had briefly met. 'Why does he make me feel like this?' She thought, thinking of how nervous and giddy she always felt after their interactions.


(Two Days Later)

"Come here, sweetie." Usagi said as she knelt to place the light pink jacket with small cat ears on the hood, onto the child. "You look so different with these clothes on." She giggled smiling at the outfit she bought for the toddler. The toddler wore a pair of jeans and a red long sleeve top with a small rainbow in the center of the top. Watching the toddler abruptly sit, she watched her begin tugging at her tennis shoes, then smiled in amusement when hearing the toddler's frustrated grunts when she couldn't remove the shoes. "No, leave those on. We're fixing to leave, I want to take you to the park." She said, gently laughing as she helped the child onto her feet once more.

"Yay!" The toddler excitedly responded, while happily clapping her hands. "Go, go!"

"Hold on, not yet, let's fix you a drink." Usagi responded, smiling as the toddler happily took her hand and pointed towards the kitchen. "Are you hungry?" She asked, feeling the toddler begin to pull her in the direction of the kitchen.

"Drink." The toddler stated while pointing at the fridge. "Drink, pwease!" She repeated, excitedly giggling when the woman began to prepare her pink sippy cup.

"Alright, give me a moment." Usagi said, smiling down at the toddler as she opened the fridge door removing a container of juice. Lifting the small cup from the counter, she filled the sippy cup with juice, before tightly securing the lid. "Are you ready now?" She asked, watching the toddler greedily take the cup before running out of the kitchen toward the front door.

"Go, go!" The toddler happily shouted, anxiously awaiting the blonde to open the door.

Laughing at the child's enthusiasm, Usagi smiled as she lifted the small diaper bag then her purse before opening the door. "Alright, let's go." She stated, offering the child her hand. Smiling as the child slipped her small hand into hers, she smiled over to see the child was happily drinking from her sippy cup as they made their way towards the elevator.


Smiling as she watched the small toddler happily playing in a pile of leaves, Usagi chuckled as she glanced down at her phone once more. Finishing the message she was writing to Mamoru, she sent the text and abruptly looked up hearing the toddler squeal in delight as a bird landed near the child. Watching with amusement as the toddler threw a leaf at the bird, frightening the small creature away she laughed as she stood and made her way towards the child. "What are you doing, you silly girl?" She asked with amusement. "Don't be mean to that poor little bird." She teased, watching the toddler point up towards the retreating bird high in the sky.

My Usa, up!" The toddler happily stated, raising her arms as she stood on her tiptoes wanting to be held.

"I'm spoiling you rotten." Usagi teased, as she lifted the child into her arms. "Did you still want to play in the leaves? We're almost at the playground, I'm sure you would have more fun there. There's a-" She stated, growing silent as her body grew tense when sensing a dark, ominous presence. 'No.' She thought with panic, recognizing the presence as the same she had felt the night she discovered the child.

Snapping from her thoughts when hearing a small whimper of fear sound from the toddler in her arms, Usagi abruptly turned when hearing a deep masculine chuckle sound from behind her. Seeing a figure in black and red armor, she noticed a red cape adorned the shoulder plates of the thick armor he wore. Feeling her stomach nervously twist as he unsheathed a double-edged sword, she tightened her grip on the toddler taking a step back in fear. "Who are you?" She demanded. "What do you want?"

"Give me the Princess and I will not harm you terran." The man gruffly commanded, turning his cold gaze towards the blonde. "If you refuse, I will spill your blood just as I did her parents and everyone else who has stood in my way." He sneered.

Gasping at his words, Usagi felt tears shine in her eyes at his cruel confession. "What do you want with her?" She demanded, tightening her hold on the toddler.

"The child must die, the last of the Kinmoku royal bloodline must be eradicated." The man sneered, as he tightened his grip on the sword. "Now give me the child!" He angrily sneered, pointing his sword at the young woman.

"No!" Usagi shouted, tears streaking her cheeks. "She's still a baby, she's innocent!" Drawing the small princess closer against her, Usagi nervously glanced around looking for a quick path to flee. "You're not laying your hands on her." She warned the armor-clad man while taking another cautious step back.

Feeling her heart pound nervously in her chest, Usagi could feel her apprehension rise as the Princess cried in fear, clinging to her for dear life. 'I won't let him hurt you.' She thought with fierce determination, snapping from her thoughts as the man's voice snapped her from her thoughts.

"Then you will both die!" The man sneered, swiftly lunging at the disobedient terran who was refusing to release the Kinmoku Princess.

Feeling her eyes widen in shock as the man lunged at her, Usagi abruptly turned and ran, the toddler's terrified screams and cries pushing her to run faster. "You're alright, I won't let him hurt you." She stated through bated breaths as she ran down the path. Screaming out in surprise as a powerful blast hurtled past her, Usagi watched as a tree ahead of her was destroyed, crashing down to block the path.

Diverting from the path, Usagi screamed out in pain, stumbling slightly as something sliced across her thigh. Feeling her leg burn with each forced step, she tightened her grip on the child refusing to slow down or stop. "I'll protect you until my last breath." She swore. "I won't let him hurt you!"

Sighing out in relief when she could see the rose gardens in the distance, she pushed herself to run faster hoping she could find a place to hide. 'Why didn't I bring my brooch!' She thought in distress, tears shining in her eyes. Nervously glancing back, she felt her stomach nervously sink when she did not see the man any longer in pursuit. 'Where did he go?!' Her mind cried, then grunted out in pain and shock as she crashed into something, the force of the sudden collision knocking her onto her back.

Grunting out in pain as she roughly landed on her back onto the ground, Usagi shakily looked, fear forming in the pit of her stomach when seeing the man was standing over them. "Please." She begged, tears streaking her cheeks. "Please don't hurt her, she's innocent." She tried to reason, watching the man cruelly laugh before he spoke.

"You have no connection to this child." The man sneered, looking down at the terran with cold emotionless eyes. "Why do you care what happens to her?" He demanded with a wicked smirk. "Tell me, why would you so willingly give up your life for this child before I slay you." He demanded.

"I- I knew Princess Kakyuu and her Guardians." Usagi tearfully stated, her voice wavering as her tears streaked her cheeks. "What did you do to them?" She demanded, anger shining in her tear-filled eyes as she defiantly glared up at the man.

"As I have already stated, the Queen and her King have been dealt with." The man responded with a wicked chuckle. "Those damn Guardians, we're still searching for them. The cowards fled after their King and Queen were executed, I'm assuming they're in search of Princess Kikyo." He scoffed. "No matter, they're too late." He sneered, raising his hand as dark energy pulsated around his hand. "I will give you one final chance terran. Surrender the child to me, and I will let you walk away unscathed."

"No." Usagi stubbornly responded, pulling the crying child closer against her.

"So be it." The man smirked, laughing as he unleashed his attack.

Abruptly turning her body to shield the Princess from the oncoming attack, Usagi tightly shut her eyes, her body tense awaiting the pain of the oncoming attack. Tightening her hold around the toddler, she felt Kikyo tightly cling in response as she screamed and cried out in fear. 'I'm sorry.' She thought, knowing she'd failed to protect the child.

"Silent Wall!"

Opening her eyes at the sound of Sailor Saturn shouting her attack, Usagi looked up in relief when seeing the Soldier of Silence standing over her, the Silence Glaive held above her a barrier around them, shielding them from the attack. "Sailor Saturn." She gasped, inwardly cringing knowing the others were also nearby. 'I'm in serious trouble.' She miserably thought, anticipating another lecture from both Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune.

"Are you alright Usagi-chan?" Sailor Saturn worriedly asked, glaring at the man who was about to harm their Princess.

"Yes, thank you Sailor Saturn." Usagi said, lifting Kikyo into her arms as she quickly stood, standing behind Sailor Saturn.

"Sailor Neptune is waiting for you. Go towards the pond as soon as I lower my shield." Sailor Saturn sternly instructed, then gasped at the sight of a small child in her friend's arms. "Whose child is this?" She demanded, looking at her Princess in shock.

"I'll explain everything later, I promise, Sailor Saturn." Usagi responded, tightening her hold on the small Kinmoku Princess as she prepared for Sailor Saturn to lower her wall.

"Sailor Uranus isn't happy with you right now, this is only going to upset her more." Sailor Saturn responded with mirth. "We'll be meeting with Rei-chan after we deal with him." She instructed, briefly glancing back one final time to see her Princess nod her head with understanding.

"I'm ready when you are." Usagi assured her friend as she watched the wall of power with anticipation waiting for it to lower at Sailor Saturn's command.

"Alright, get ready Usagi-chan." Sailor Saturn instructed, putting her full focus on the intruder as she lowered the shield. "Now!" She commanded, lunging forward, her glaive raised in an attempt to sidetrack the armor-clad enemy.

Tightening her hold on Kikyo, Usagi pushed herself to run as fast as she could in the direction she'd been instructed by Sailor Saturn. Hearing the sounds of Sailor Saturn and the man beginning to clash, she found herself soon passing Sailor Uranus. Taking notice at how angry the Soldier of Wind looked as she passed her, she frowned with worry knowing she was due for a serious lecture. 'I'm going to be in so much more trouble when they find out I don't have my brooch.' She nervously thought, tears shining in her eyes as she heard Sailor Uranus soon shout her attack.


"No!" The man sneered, going into a blind rage as the blonde-haired terran escaped with the Kinmoku Princess. "You will die for interfering, Guardian!" He angrily shouted, lunging at the dark-haired Sailor Guardian his sword raised, ready to deliver the death blow.

"Who are you?" Sailor Saturn demanded, easily blocking blow after blow from the enemy's weapon as he allowed his rage to fuel him. "Why are you on our planet?"

"That thieving terran has something of mine!" The man angrily sneered. "I want it back, then I will gladly leave this realm."

"The child?" Sailor Saturn asked with shock, making the mistake of glancing back at her fleeing Princess. "Why do you want the child?"

"The child must die, now stand aside you damn pest!" The man sneered, taking advantage of the Sailor Guardian's distraction, easily blasting her back with one of his attacks.

"World Shaking!"

Screaming out in shock and pain as he was violently thrown back by the surprise blast, the man angrily looked up as he shakily picked himself up from the ground. Watching a second Sailor Guardian step from the shadows, he watched the sandy-haired blonde smugly look at him before she summoned a sword. "Let's see what you have bitch." He sneered, wickedly chuckling as he summoned his sword into his hand once more.


Hearing the sounds of fighting growing fainter the further she ran, Usagi looked in relief when noticing she was nearing the pond. Watching Sailor Neptune step forward onto the path, she slowed her steps as she tiredly dropped to her knees. "I'm sorry." She apologized through tired breaths, keeping her gaze lowered as tears streaked her cheeks.

"Get up, Usagi-chan, we're not done running yet." Sailor Neptune coldly stated, glaring down at the child her Princess was tightly holding onto. "We'll discuss this at the temple." She snapped, watching her Princess nod her head as she tiredly stood. "Let's go, I'm escorting you to your car then I'm going back to help the others. Do you have your brooch?" She asked, angering when her Princess silently shook her head at the question. "What?! Why the hell not?" She angrily demanded.

"There- there hasn't been any kind of threat in so long." Usagi sheepishly responded, taking notice of the anger shining brightly in Sailor Neptune's gaze.

"Of all the stupid things you've done in the past!" Sailor Neptune angrily muttered, trying to keep her temper. "You keep the brooch on you at all times Usagi-chan. You know this!" She angrily reprimanded her friend. "You could have been killed if we had not shown up?"

"I know, I'm sorry. It was a foolish mistake, it won't happen again." Usagi tearfully promised as they continued to run. Seeing her car in the distance, she abruptly stopped and looked at her friend with a pleading gaze. "Go help the others, Sailor Neptune. I'll be waiting at the temple." She insisted, watching Sailor Neptune hesitate a moment before nodding and turning to run the opposite direction to assist Sailor Uranus and Sailor Saturn. Watching her friend quickly rush to help the other Outer Guardians, Usagi tearfully exhaled as she hugged the small child closely in relief. "We're safe now." She promised as she kissed the child's head. "Let's go, Kikyo. Rei-chan is probably waiting for us." She said with a nervous exhale pushing herself to run faster down the path.


Watching Usagi silently walk up the temple steps, holding the small Kinmoku Princess close to her, Rei sighed in relief as she quickly ran forward, embracing her friend as she reached the top of the steps. "Are you alright Usagi-chan? Why didn't you call for help?" She worriedly demanded, then gasped when she saw the deep gash across her friend's leg. "You're hurt." She gasped, quickly taking the child from her friend. "Come on, let's get that tended to." She insisted, frowning at how tired and worn her friend looked.

"Rei-chan, how did they-" Usagi asked, growing silent when she noticed Setsuna quietly sitting on the porch steps with a stern look on her face. "Oh." She muttered, wincing as she walked forward, taking Kikyo back into her protective hold once more. "What did you tell her, Rei-chan?" She demanded, feeling betrayed as her friend looked down with shame before tearfully looking back up at her.

"Everything." Rei quietly admitted, looking down with shame once more as she tearfully exhaled. "I'm sorry, Usagi-chan." She apologized, tears shining in her eyes, ashamed to look at her friend. 'I've betrayed her trust.' She thought with shame.

"It's alright, they would have figured it out eventually." Usagi responded with a soft exhale, tensing when she noticed Setsuna silently walking forwards. "Setsuna-chan, please let me explain." She pleaded, watching the Guardian of Time turn her cold gaze towards Kikyo.

"Why did you not come to us about this?" Setsuna angrily demanded, looking at the small toddler before turning her cold gaze back towards her Princess. "What were you thinking, Usagi-chan?" She scolded.

"I didn't know what Haruka-chan would do." Usagi softly stated. "She's never been so trusting or willing to-"

"She does this to protect you! We have all worked so tirelessly over the years to protect you and your future!" Setsuna cried out in frustration, pinching the bridge of her nose as she exhaled out in irritation. Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she looked up at her Princess wanting to take a different approach with her kind-hearted Princess. "You have such a pure heart, Usagi-chan. You've always selflessly put yourself in danger for others who would not return this kindness. You have to start thinking about your safety first, and let us start dealing with these problems. Without you, there will be no future, there will be no Crystal Tokyo!" She scolded, her anger leeching out the more she reprimanded her Princess. "If this child is who I suspect she is, then she needs to be sent back. She's can't-"

"She can't go back." Usagi tearfully interrupted, sadly looking down at the small child with remorse. "Kakyuu-sama, she- she's been killed." She softly stated, her voice wavering as tears streaked her cheeks.

"No." Rei gasped as tears began to shine in her eyes. "How-"

"This is her daughter, Princess Kikyo-sama." Usagi said, drawing the child closer as she turned her attention towards Rei. "That creep that attacked me in the park, he admitted to killing Kakyuu-sama and her husband. Kikyo-sama doesn't have anyone else." She explained, then softly exhaled a sad smile spreading across her lips, hope shining in her tear-filled eyes. "He said their Guardians fled, that means they're out there looking for Kikyo-sama."

"Which means the Starlights will be here soon to recover their Princess." Rei stated with realization as to what her friend was implying as she spoke of her occurrence with the new enemy.

"Yes." Usagi responded with a small, sad smile as she turned her gaze up towards the late afternoon sky. "I believe Kakyuu-sama sent her daughter here, knowing she would be safe and protected." She said with a sad smile. "I'm going to protect her for as long as I need to."

"No, you're not." Setsuna angrily responded, silently walking forwards and reaching for the child. "Give her to me now." She demanded.

"No, you're not taking her from me." Usagi angrily retorted, taking a step back as tears streaked her cheeks. "I will do what was asked of me." She said with fierce determination. Watching Setsuna look at her in surprise from her outburst, she watched the quiet guardian shake her head and exhale out in frustration before she spoke.

"Usagi-chan, you have your classes at the university. How can you fulfill your responsibilites there and take care of a child?" Setsuna calmly asked, sighing out in frustration as her Princess continued to silently stand her ground and stubbornly look at her. "You don't have the time or the resources to care for this child." She insisted, breaking the uncomfortable silence. "We will protect her until we can figure out what needs to be done."

"She's not going anywhere, she feels safe with me." Usagi stubbornly argued. "I'll figure it out, Setsuna-chan, I will-"

"My, Usa." Kikyo whimpered, tightening her hold on the young woman as she could sense the growing tension amongst the two women.

"It's alright, I've got you." Usagi assured the child, as she gently rubbed the small girl's back trying to soothe her fears away.

"She's not your child, Usagi-chan. We have to return her to whatever family she may have left." Setsuna insisted when seeing how maternal her Princess was acting over the toddler.

"I know she's not my child, Setsuna-chan." Usagi snapped in her frustration, then softly exhaled regretting her harsh response. "I'm all that she has right now, Setsuna-chan." She stated instead. "The Sailor Starlights are out there looking for her, it's only a matter of time before they figure out she's here."

"When that time comes, you will give them the child and they will immediately return to their realm." Haruka sternly ordered, watching her Princess abruptly turn and look at her in surprise. "This is their problem Neko-chan, not ours. Your safety is our priority, this child is not our concern."

"How can you all be so heartless?" Usagi angrily demanded, glaring at her Haruka then back to Setsuna for a brief moment. "She's lost both of her parents!" She shouted, tears streaking her cheeks. "She-"

"We cannot interfere in their affairs, no matter how strongly you desire to do so." Michiru interrupted, taking a step forward to stand beside Haruka. "We were able to eliminate the one who nearly killed you at the park. I don't know if there are others here or on their way." She grimly stated, then sighed out in frustration. "You have to start being more aware of your surroundings and you should be carrying your brooch with you at all times." She scolded. "You will need to be able to protect yourself until we can arrive to assist."

"You don't have your brooch?" Haruka angrily demanded, looking at her Princess in shock and anger. "Why the hell do you not have your brooch with you?!"

"We haven't had any threats in three years. I stopped carrying it after I started at the university." Usagi responded with a slight shrug of her shoulder while keeping her gaze down trying to avoid Haruka's angry gaze.

"We're having the others come back home until this mess is over." Haruka sneered, with an angry shake of her head. "You're still an irresponsible child, it will be best if the Inner's return to see over your safety until-"

"No, Haruka-chan! You can't do that!" Usagi desperately pleaded, tears streaking her cheeks. "Please don't interfere with their studies. That's not fair to any of them! They are finally getting to experience a-"

"They know their duty is to you first." Setsuna abruptly interrupted her Princess, trying to contain her worried frown when seeing how much it was upsetting their Princess.

"Please, you can't do that!" Usagi begged, her voice choking on her tears. "Please don't ruin this experience for them. I'll do whatever you say, just don't make them come back."

Feeling tears well in her eyes, Rei sadly stood back and watched as her friend and Princess yielded to the Outer Guardians. 'This isn't fair how they treat her.' She sadly thought, knowing it was best to keep her mouth shut to avoid Haruka's wrath.

"Rei-chan you said you had already agreed to watch the child when Usagi-chan is in class?" Setsuna stated, turning her questioning gaze towards the miko.

"Yes Setsuna-chan, I've already made arrangements with Usagi-chan to watch Kikyo while she's in class." Rei responded, watching Setsuna exchange looks with Haruka and Michiru before she nodded her head in silent agreement amongst them.

"Proceed with what you two originally had arranged." Setsuna announced with a soft exhale before turning her stern gaze towards her Princess. "You are to carry your brooch and communicator with you at all times, Usagi-chan. If you go anywhere with this child, you will have one of us with you. If you fail to do this, we will take over the care of the child until her Guardians arrive." She instructed, watching her Princess sigh in relief as she tearfully nodded in agreement to the arrangement.

"Thank you, Setsuna-chan." Usagi graciously stated, wiping the tears from her cheeks. Tearfully looking down at the small Princess in her arms, she smiled as she watched the toddler look up at her and tilt her head with curiosity before raising her hands and touching the tears that streaked her cheeks.

"My Usa." Kikyo stated, touching the woman's tear-streaked cheeks before leaning forward and embracing her protector.

"Thank you, sweetie." Usagi said with a tearful chuckle while returning the toddler's affection. "Do you want to go home?" She asked, watching the toddler smile and point the direction of the temple steps.

"Home." Kikyo happily repeated, smiling up at the young woman.

"I should get her home and make dinner." Usagi said, watching Haruka and Michiru nod their heads with approval for her to leave.

"Remember what we said." Haruka warned in a cold voice. "We will step in if we need to."

"I know." Usagi quietly said as she walked past her Guardians, not bothering to look back or bid them farewell in fear they may change their minds and try to force Kikyo from her.

Watching their Princess leave the temple, her head downcast and shoulders slumped, Michiru angrily turned and glared at the miko who was silently watching Usagi leave with a worried gaze. "Why did you not tell us about the child?" She demanded.

"I made a promise to Usagi-chan." Rei calmly responded, returning the same cold gaze back to Michiru. "She-"

"She's endangering herself doing this." Setsuna angrily interrupted. "She's not only endangering herself, but she's endangering the future."

"No more secrets, Rei-chan. If she is doing anything that is going to compromise her life or the future, you need to tell us immediately." Haruka demanded, watching the miko tearfully nod her head. "I know you and the others are closer with the Princess, but it's time to stop babying her. She needs to grow up and learn to make these difficult decisions that will need to be made once she's Queen."

"Can you do this for us Rei-chan?" Hotaru asked, turning her questioning gaze towards the raven-haired Guardian. Watching the Priestess wipe a few stray tears from her cheeks before nodding her head, her voice wavering through her tears as she spoke.

"Yes." Rei tearfully stated. "I'll tell you if Usagi-chan is endangering herself."

"Thank you, Rei-chan. That is all that we ask, we want to keep the Princess safe from any danger. Her kind and trusting nature has always attracted danger." Setsuna stated with a frown, then softly exhaled as she turned and looked at the remaining three Outer Guardians. "I suppose I could take a break from the time gate, it seems we will soon have a new threat."


Making sure Kikyo was comfortable on the couch, Usagi softly exhaled as she looked down at her blood-soaked jeans with a cringe. Limping into the bathroom where her first aid kit was, she carefully removed her jeans and felt her stomach lurch at the sight of the deep cut. 'Damn, I should have asked Hotaru-chan to heal this.' She thought with a frown, as she removed the first aid kit from under the sink's cabinet.

Sitting on the toilet after closing the lid, Usagi winced as she lifted her leg propping it onto the ledge of the tub. Carefully cleaning the wound, she hissed out in pain as the wound stung as soon as the antiseptic touched the raw flesh. Biting her lip, she felt her eyes sting with tears as she lowered the bottle of antiseptic and lifted a roll of gauze. 'Worse part is over, you're almost done.' She thought as she began to wrap the wound.

Smiling down at her handiwork as she finished wrapping the wound, she gathered her supplies, cleaning up her mess. Tucking the first aid kit back under the cabinet, she walked out of the bathroom down the small hall towards the living room. Pausing her steps as she reached the living room, she sighed out in dismay when seeing the small bowl of cereal she'd given Kikyo was scattered all over the couch and floor. "Kikyo-chan, you're supposed to get that in your mouth not everywhere else." She said with amusement as she walked to one of her mounds of clothes and rummaged for a pair of shorts.

"Boo-boo." Kikyo stated, pointing towards the bandage around the young woman's leg.

"Yes, your Usa-chan managed to get a boo-boo." Usagi responded with a giggle, feeling odd as she used the juvenile word. "Don't worry, it should be healed in a couple of days." She explained, grateful for the ginzuishou's healing powers. 'One of the perks of being Eternal Sailor Moon.' She thought with a smug smile, then frowned at a sudden thought. 'Oh, how I wish I had the same healing abilities as Hotaru-chan and Mamo-chan. I wouldn't have to wait for the power of the ginzuishou to slowly take its time with healing my injuries.'

Slipping her shorts on, she winced under the pressure against her wound with each step she took. Sitting on the couch with a tired sigh, Usagi smiled as Kikyo scooted closer, soon snuggling against her. "I'm glad I finally know your name." She said with a tired yawn as she turned her focus onto the small Kinmoku Princess sitting next to her. Seeing the child was drifting off into slumber, Usagi smiled as she rested her head back against the back of the couch, her own eyes growing heavy as she slipped into her exhaustion from the earlier events.

To Be Continued…

Revised: 3/24/21


Not very many changes in this chapter, most modifications/additions will be in the later chapters. Hope you enjoyed Chapter 1, let me know what you thought. I enjoy reading and responding to reviews. :)

-ShadowQueenGalactica