Moving right along. This one is about Sailor Saturn's daughter, Madelyn. A lot of Hotaru fans have e-mailed me so this story is for all of you. I created Saturn Knight since Hotaru never had a significant other in the anime.
Please visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
Also I love the e-mails I have been getting. Keep sending them. I will take any comments, suggestions and feedback. Please e-mail me at AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon. I created all the Chibi Scouts except for Chibi Moon.
Our Daughters
Part 6: Madelyn
By
Angel Raye
Chapter 1: The Announcement
"So she wasn't a dream," said Hotaru.
"You should have figured that out when all of the other scouts started having children," said Amy.
"I know," said Hotaru. "But I was a little girl myself when the Chibi Scouts came back to see us in the 20th century. Since I was just a child I thought maybe I had dreamed up a daughter for myself."
"The thousand years of dormancy may have left all of us with hazy memories," said Amy. "But we all know that the little girls who came back to see us were real. Everyone except you and I have children now. It is our turn."
"How can I have a child," asked Hotaru. "I am Sailor Saturn, the soldier of death and destruction. How am I going to tell my child that when Mama goes into battle she may have to sacrifice herself to save others?"
"If I recall she was also the soldier of destruction," said Amy.
"And how am I going to tell her that," asked Hotaru. "That I gave birth to her just so she can sacrifice herself?"
"Hotaru calm down," said Amy. "Or I am going to have to give you something to calm you and I would rather not do that."
"Sorry," said Hotaru. "I am just scared. I was still a little girl when the Chibi Scouts came to visit us. The rest of you were teenagers or adults and took parental responsibility. I couldn't because I was so young. I never grew much either. It's going to be hard to have a child at my size."
Amy looked at Hotaru. It was true that she never grew but stayed undersized. She was still the same size today than she was at the age of ten. "People smaller than you have had children," said Amy. "You can too and with me as your doctor I will make sure that everything will be okay."
"I guess you are right," said Hotaru. "I will tell Anthony. He will be excited. Everyone having children has gotten him longing."
"You do that," said Amy. "And if you are worried about a bad pregnancy talk to Raye. Hers wasn't very easy as you know."
Hotaru laughed. Sailor Mars, or Raye, just had a daughter a couple of weeks ago. She had twenty-four hour morning sickness throughout the entire nine months. To her having the baby had been a relief.
"I guess there will be a party tonight," said Hotaru.
"I guarantee it," said Amy. "Now go and tell that husband of yours and I will tell the King and Queen."
Hotaru headed towards her quarters. She contacted Anthony on her communicator and asked him to meet her there. When she arrived she looked at the spare bedroom and tried to imagine it as a nursery.
"Hotaru," said Anthony coming in. "Is everything all right?"
"Everything is fine," said Hotaru.
"Then what is it," asked Anthony.
"I'm pregnant," said Hotaru simply.
"Really," asked Anthony in excitement. "You mean I am going to be a father?"
"Yes," said Hotaru smiling at Anthony's excitement.
"That is wonderful," said Anthony as he kissed Hotaru.
"Things are going to be okay," said Hotaru to herself as she returned the kiss.
As predicted there was a party that night to celebrate the child of Saturn. Everyone was excited for Hotaru.
"A toast," said King Endymion. "To yet another member of the family."
"May your child be healthy," said Neo-Queen Serenity.
"Congratulations," said everyone.
"This is wonderful," said Mina. "I am so excited."
"So am I," said Raye. "And just wait until Amy puts that baby in your arms for the first time. I cannot describe the feeling it is so wonderful."
"That it is," said Lita.
Serenity came over to Hotaru with Rini. She gave Rini a nudge and the child came over. "Congratulations," she said holding out some flowers.
"Thank you Small Lady," said Hotaru. She so wished she could tell the child how important she was to her. But Rini still had yet to go back to the 20th century and meet everyone's past selves so Hotaru could not tell her what a special friend Rini had been to her.
Hotaru went over to Setsuna, Haruka, and Micharu. They were her parents after all and she needed parental guidance.
"Mama Setsuna, Mama Micharu, and Papa Haruka," she said. "I need some guidance right now."
"What can we do for you Hotaru," asked Micharu.
"Do you think I will be a good mother," she asked.
"Let me see," said Haruka. "The child that visited us in the past seemed to be a well-behaved and well-mannered child so I think you will be a good mother."
"I know you will be," said Setsuna.
"Don't worry so much," said Micharu. "And all of us felt the same way you are now. Children do not come with instructions so we all have to learn as we go along."
"We did have practice with you," said Haruka. "So that gave us an advantage but you will do fine."
"You can count on us as your parents to help you through this," said Setsuna.
"Thank you," said Hotaru in relief. She was so lucky.
Chapter 2: A Difficult Pregnancy and Birth
Hotaru felt dreadful. She was only six months pregnant but she was wishing it were over. She was sick constantly. Right now she was on her way to Raye's quarters to talk with her. Since she had a difficult pregnancy too Hotaru knew she would understand.
Chad let her in and Hotaru found Raye on the couch nursing Annika. "Hi Raye," she said.
"Hi Hotaru," said Raye. "Hope you don't mind me feeding Annika while we talk."
"I don't mind," said Hotaru as she sat down. She felt very weak. Raye looked at her with concern in her eyes.
"Are you all right," asked Raye. "You are very pale."
"I am feeling dreadful," groaned Hotaru. "The medicine Amy gave me is not working."
"It worked for me," said Raye. "Maybe you need something stronger."
"It's not just the feeling of nausea," said Hotaru. "I have been feeling very dizzy. It's like all my energy has been zapped from me."
"That does not sound good," said Raye as she lifted Annika to her shoulder. "Have you told Amy?"
"No," said Hotaru as she watched Raye lay the baby down.
"You need to," said Raye. "You do not want to jeopardize your health or the baby's."
"I guess you are right," said Hotaru as she stood up. Dizziness overcame her as the room started spinning.
"Hotaru are you okay," Raye asked anxiously.
"I think so," gasped Hotaru right before she fell.
Raye dove forward and caught Hotaru. "Chad," she screamed. "Get Amy quickly."
"I'm going," said Chad as he ran out.
The King, Queen, Scouts and Knights waited anxiously for Amy's report. Word had spread fast about Hotaru collapsing. Everyone was worried. Finally Amy came out.
"What is it Amy," asked Micharu anxiously.
"Her blood pressure is up," said Amy. "She is going to have to stay in bed for the remainder of her pregnancy otherwise we could lose the baby."
"Is there nothing else we can do," asked Anthony.
"It is too early to induce labor," said Amy. "I have to wait at least two months before I can do that otherwise there will be a small chance of survival."
"We will all take turns staying with her through out the day," said Lita.
"Yes," said Haruka. "You can count on all of us."
Two months later Hotaru was lying in her bed. Micharu was keeping her company. The last two months had been very trying for Hotaru. It had not been fun staying in bed all this time. The other scouts had been wonderful helping out each day but Hotaru was ready for this to be over with.
"Are you doing okay," asked Micharu bringing a cup of tea to Hotaru.
"Could you do me a favor," asked Hotaru.
"Anything," said Micharu.
"Get Amy," said Hotaru. "I think there is something wrong with the baby."
Micharu flew out of the room. "Please let everything be okay," she said to herself.
"The baby is in distress," said Amy to the others. "I am going to have to perform an emergency C section right away."
"There is still a month left in the pregnancy," said Anthony. "Is the baby going to be all right?"
"If I don't do a C section then we could lose the baby," said Amy. "This is the only way."
"We will be waiting here," said Haruka and everyone nodded.
After what seemed like forever Amy came out. "The baby is fine and so is Hotaru," said Amy. "The umbilical cord was wrapped around the baby's neck but we got to her in time."
"That's a relief," said Anthony and everyone else heaved a sigh relief. "Can I go and see her?"
"Of course," said Amy.
Anthony walked into the room. Hotaru was lying in bed with a small bundle in her arms. "Look at her," said Hotaru. "She is just perfect."
Anthony kissed Hotaru and gazed down at the baby. She was perfect with dark hair and large eyes the same color as her mother. "She is beautiful," he said. "Looks just like her mother."
"I was so worried we were going to lose her," said Hotaru.
"I was worried I was going to lose both of you," said Anthony. "I am so glad you are both going to be okay."
"Is everyone else outside," asked Hotaru.
"They are all there," said Anthony.
"Bring them in," said Hotaru. "Let's introduce them to the newest member of the family."
Anthony opened the door and everyone poured in. "Look at her," said Micharu. "Reminds me of a certain baby we took out of Sailor Moon's arms a long time ago."
"She looks just like her mother," said Haruka.
"We are just so glad you are going to be okay," said Neo-Queen Serenity.
"You had us all worried there for a while," added Raye.
"I just want to thank all of you for your help these last couple of months," said Hotaru. "If you had not helped out then this little miracle would not be here."
"We are all family here," said Mina. "Of course we will help out."
Hotaru gazed down at the little bundle in her arms. "Say hello to your family Madelyn," she said.
Chapter 3: A Passed on Ability
"Do I have to go to the nursery today Mama," asked Madelyn as Hotaru carried her to the palace nursery.
"Yes my dear," said Hotaru. "But I promise I will try and get you early so that you and I can spend time together."
"Okay," said Madelyn as she rested her head on her mother's shoulder. Madelyn was now three years old but she was still the smallest child in the nursery. Amy's daughter Ariel was a year younger than Madelyn but taller. Like Hotaru, Madelyn's poor health kept her from growing. She was very small for a three-year-old. Mina's daughter Gloria was always teasing Madelyn about her size and she hated it. Hotaru was glad that next year all of the children except Madelyn and Ariel would be at school. Gloria would not be able to tease Madelyn quite as much.
The other children were already at the nursery with the exception of Rini, Daisy and Maggie who were at school. Madelyn got down from her mother's arms and ran over to Ariel who was playing with some dolls. Palla was trying to settle an argument between Annika and Gloria. Ves came over to talk to Hotaru.
"She is a good child," said Ves. "If all of the kids were like her and Annika we would have it so easy in here."
"I am glad to hear it," said Hotaru with a laugh. "I do the best I can."
"Well you do a good job," said Ves.
"Thank you," said Hotaru as she went over to kiss her daughter goodbye.
Later on the children were playing outside together. Ariel was running around the garden giggling as Gloria chased her. Suddenly Ariel tripped and fell scraping her elbow. She began to wail as the blood came out.
"Let's take a look," said Ves as she took hold of Ariel's elbow. "It's just a little cut. I'll go get a band-aide for it." Ves went to get the first aide kit she and Palla brought outside.
Madelyn knelt down beside Ariel. "Poor Ariel," she said. She put her hand on the cut. Suddenly a glow appeared in the area.
"Look," said Hope in awe.
"What is it," asked Faith.
"Weird," said Gloria.
Madelyn removed her hand from Ariel's elbow. The cut was gone.
"Look," squealed Annika. "Ariel's boo-boo is gone."
Ves came over and looked. Annika was right. The cut was completely gone with no trace of having been there.
"Amazing," said Ves.
"Please tell me that did not happen," begged Hotaru after Ves told her what had happened that day.
"I would not make something like that up," said Ves. "You have that ability too don't you?"
"Yes," said Hotaru. "And because of that my classmates stayed away from me. I was hoping I would not pass that ability to my child."
"I understand how you feel," said Raye who was nearby looking at the artwork Annika had done that day. "I was hoping my sixth sense would not be passed onto Annika but it has. My classmates feared me because of that."
"Just remember one thing," said Micharu as she gathered the twins' stuff. "Madelyn and Annika has one thing you did not have."
"What is that," asked Hotaru.
"This large family," said Micharu. "These little girls are already friends with each other and they already protect each other."
"That in it will prevent our daughters from having the lonely lives we all had before we met Serenity," said Amy as she picked up Ariel.
"That's true," said Hotaru. "Thanks for reminding me."
Chapter 4: The Duck Pond
"Can we go for a walk today," Madelyn asked Palla and Ves. Now that all the other children had started school Madelyn and Ariel were the only ones left at the palace all day. Palla took care of Ariel and Ves took care of Madelyn. They stayed together for most of the day so the two girls could play together.
"I guess a walk will be a good idea," said Ves. "We all need to get out every once in a while."
"Can we go to the park and feed the ducks," asked Ariel eagerly.
"Why not," said Palla with a laugh.
"Hurrah," squealed Madelyn in delight.
"Then we will go before lunch," said Ves laughing at the children's delight.
About an hour later Ves, Palla, Madelyn and Ariel were in the park by the lake. Madelyn and Ariel were throwing crusts of bread at the ducks feeding them. The two little girls were having a good time.
"I wish I could get a duck to eat out of my hand," said Madelyn. "The cats eat out of our hands."
"The cats talk," said Ariel.
"Maybe the ducks do," said Madelyn.
"Let's ask them," said Ariel. She looked at one of the ducks and said, "Hello."
The ducks did not answer. "Maybe we need to get closer," suggested Madelyn and she waded into the water, clothes and all.
"I'm coming," said Ariel as she followed Madelyn in. Both girls had been taking swimming lessons but right now it was too cold to go swimming.
"Hi ducks," said Madelyn but the ducks only swam away.
"Catch them," said Ariel and she splashed after them.
"Girls," said a sharp voice and the girls turned to see Palla and Ves standing behind them. "What do you think you are doing?"
"We wanted to talk to the ducks," said Madelyn in an ashamed voice.
"Get out of that water," said Ves. "You will both catch a death of a cold."
The two girls climbed out of the water. Ves wrapped her jacket around Madelyn and Palla wrapped her jacket around Ariel. "Now," said Palla. "It is straight back to the palace and straight to your mothers." Together everyone headed home.
"What is this," demanded Saturn when she saw Ves and Palla bringing in two wet children.
"We went for a walk to the park and these two decided to swim after the ducks," said Ves.
"Why did you do that," asked Mercury picking Ariel up.
"We were trying to talk to the ducks," said Ariel.
"Luna, Artemis, Diana, and Crescent talk to us," said Madelyn. "We thought maybe the ducks would talk too."
"As if ducks could be as smart as us cats," said Luna.
"Madelyn," said Saturn. "You now how easily you get sick. You should not go into the water."
"Sorry Mama," said Madelyn. "We were having fun."
"Well now you have to have a bath," said Saturn. "I don't want you to get a chill."
That evening Hotaru was putting Madelyn to bed. Her nose was a little runny from the dip in the lake earlier that day. Hotaru knew Madelyn was probably going to get a cold from this.
"I'm sorry Mama," said Madelyn.
"About what," asked Hotaru.
"About the lake," said Madelyn. "We really wanted to see if the ducks could talk."
"Well they can't," said Hotaru. "I do not want you to get sick so please do not do this again."
"I won't," said Madelyn hugging her mother. "I love you."
"I love you too Darling," said Hotaru wrapping her arms around the little girl.
Chapter 5: Lonely School Days
Madelyn sighed as she went out to the playground. She just started Kindergarten and so far it was not what she was hoping. Because she was shy and small the other children did not play with her. Madelyn wished Ariel was with her but she would not be coming for another year. Madelyn envied the other children who all had each other in their classes. Maggie and Daisy were together in the third grade while Annika, Gloria, Hope and Faith were together in first. Madelyn was by herself and she hated it. Rini was always telling her how alone she was too and that made Madelyn feel a little better.
Madelyn found a quiet spot under a tree and got her lunch out. She looked around at all the children eating and felt sad. She began to nibble on her sandwich.
"Madelyn," said a soft voice. Madelyn looked up and saw Annika, Gloria and the twins standing over her. "Why do you always eat by yourself?"
"No one in my class wants to eat with me," said Madelyn.
"Then eat with us," said Gloria rolling her eyes. "The Kindergarten and first grade always eat together. You could always come with us."
"Do you think it is all right," asked Madelyn. "I mean we won't get in trouble will we?"
"Who cares," said Gloria plopping herself down on the ground next to Madelyn.
"Yes," said Annika. "You do not need to be by yourself when we are here."
"That's right," said Hope as she pulled out her sandwich.
"Thank you," said Madelyn glad that she had the others here.
"We are all family," said Faith. "At least that's what Mama Micharu says."
Madelyn was glad she was part of a large family.
"That was very nice of the girls," said Hotaru that evening after Madelyn told her what happened at lunch.
"It was," said Madelyn. "Even Gloria was nice."
"Gloria can have her nice side," laughed Hotaru. "I think underneath that rude child is someone who is really caring."
"I just wish someone from my class would talk to me," said Madelyn.
"I know how you feel," said Hotaru.
"You do," asked Madelyn.
"Yes," said Hotaru. "I was very lonely too until I met one special friend."
"Who was that Mama," asked Madelyn.
"Just someone very special," said Hotaru. She could not tell Madelyn about Rini going back in time yet. "But this special person led me to the Sailor Scouts and I was not lonely anymore."
"Just like all the kids here," said Madelyn.
"Yes," said Hotaru. "You girls are all like sisters to each other. You are very lucky to have each other."
Madelyn realized that was true. She had a large family unlike the other children at school. That made her happy to think about it. Next year Ariel would be coming to school and they would all be together.
Chapter 6: A Revealed Secret
It was recess for the Kindergarten and First grade. Madelyn was playing with Annika, Gloria, Hope and Faith out on the playground. They were having fun tossing a ball around to each other. Faith and Gloria were the best at catching the ball. The other three missed from time to time.
A child from Madelyn's class ran by. Madelyn knew her name was Kara but that was it. Kara ran over to the jungle gym and started to climb. Suddenly she slipped and fell scraping her forehead against the pavement.
"Oh no," said Annika as she and Hope ran over. Madelyn tagged behind. Other children seeing the fall came over too.
"Are you all right," asked Hope.
Kara looked up crying. Blood was gushing down her face. There was a very deep cut on her forehead.
"I'll go and get the teacher," said Hope and she ran off.
Madelyn started to walk over toward Kara. Annika grabbed her arm. "No," she hissed. "Your mama said not to do this here. I am not allowed to use my power here either."
"I can't leave her," said Madelyn. "She needs help."
"Don't," pleaded Annika holding onto Madelyn's arm. "Your mama said your classmates will stay away from you."
"They already do," said Madelyn. "I am going to help her." She broke free from Annika's grasp and went over to Kara. "I can help you," she said.
"How," sobbed Kara.
"Let me touch it," said Madelyn and she put her hand on Kara's cut. The teacher came over just in time to see the glow.
"What is this," asked the teacher.
"You dope," Gloria hissed to Annika. "Why didn't you stop her?"
"I tried," said Annika. "And don't call me a dope."
"Look," another child squealed. "The cut is gone."
The teacher went over and checked Kara's forehead. "The cut is gone," she said. "I don't know what you did Madelyn but it was amazing."
"It was cool," said one child.
"Neat," said another.
"Madelyn how do you do it," asked a third.
"Would you do that for me," asked a fourth child.
The other children asking questions surrounded Madelyn. Annika, Gloria and the twins watched all of this in amazement.
"Well," said Annika. "I am going to ask my mama if I can use my powers here now."
That evening at dinner Hotaru noticed Raye was looking very exhausted. "Rough afternoon," she asked.
"I'll say," said Raye. "Annika threw a thirty minute temper tantrum today because I told her that even though Madelyn may have found popularity with her special abilities today she still could not use her abilities at school."
"That's not like Annika," said Micharu.
"I know," said Raye. "I finally put her in her room until she settled down. It was either that or give her a spanking which is something I have never done. As you can see she is still pouting."
"I was not happy to hear that Madelyn did not listen to me," said Hotaru. "But it seems that my worries were for nothing. The kids thought it was wonderful. With me they stayed away."
"Maybe Madelyn won't be so lonely in school now," said Haruka.
"I hope so," said Hotaru. "It would be nice for her to have friends in her class."
The next day Madelyn got to school. As soon as she walked into her classroom the other children surrounded her.
"Madelyn eat lunch with me today," said Kara.
"Sit next to me," said another child.
"Can you come over and play sometime," asked a third.
For the first time all year Madelyn felt happiness in her class.
Chapter 7: The Cake
"Do we have to have another party tonight," griped Madelyn as she stood still while Hotaru put a ribbon in her hair.
"As princess of Saturn you are expected to be there," said Hotaru.
"But its not for one of the kids," said Madelyn. "It's for Sailor Jupiter and Jupiter Knight."
"It's their anniversary," said Hotaru. "I know these parties are hard for you kids to endure but once you get older it will be easier."
Madelyn sighed. She and Ariel have been going to these parties for a year now. The ones honoring the children were fun but the ones honoring the adults weren't. Sometimes something happened that added excitement to these parties. Usually Gloria was involved with them. One time she and Annika had drank wine thinking it was apple juice. They both got sick. Another time Gloria and Daisy got into a fight which ended in a huge mess. Madelyn wondered if Gloria would stir up any excitement tonight.
"Okay Darling," said Hotaru. "You are ready to go."
Madelyn gazed at her mother who looked so beautiful in her purple evening gown. "When I grow up I am going to be as pretty as you," said Madelyn.
"You already are," said Hotaru kissing her daughter. "Papa is waiting for us so let's go."
Anthony was in his tuxedo. "I see my two dates are ready," said Anthony as he held out his arms for Hotaru and Madelyn to take.
"Papa you are silly," said Madelyn with a giggle as she took Anthony's arm. Together they left for the party.
The party had been going on for an hour and Madelyn was very bored. Gloria's parents had a tight reign on her tonight to keep her out of trouble so Madelyn knew she was not going to generate any excitement tonight.
"Bored," asked a voice and Madelyn saw Ariel standing next to her.
"Yes," said Madelyn. Ariel was still her closest friend even though Madelyn felt a little jealous of her. This year Ariel started school but instead of going into Kindergarten she was put in second grade with Annika, Gloria and the twins. Madelyn was jealous because Ariel was a year younger than she was and she was in class with the other children. On the other hand since Madelyn showed everyone her special abilities she had more friends then the others.
"Let's go and check out the dessert table," said Ariel. "I'm hungry."
"Okay," said Madelyn and she followed her friend to the dessert table.
"Look," said Ariel. "Chocolate cake, my favorite."
"Yummy," said Madelyn. "But you know we will only get a small piece."
"Not if we take the whole thing," said Ariel. "We can hide under the table. The tablecloth should hide us."
"Okay," said Madelyn eagerly. She held up the tablecloth and watched as Ariel took the cake and the two of them slid under it. They began to eat.
"Has anyone seen Ariel," asked Amy. "I have not seen her for a while."
"No I haven't," said Hotaru. "Come to think of it I have not seen Madelyn either."
"One of the cakes is missing from the table," said Serenity.
"How would you know," asked Micharu. "There is so many sweets on that table."
"I always take inventory of the sweets before parties," said Serenity.
"Leave to Serenity," grumbled Raye. "She must always stuff her face full of sweets."
"Knock it off Raye," said Serenity starting to boil with anger.
"Cool your jets," said Raye. "We should check on the children and make sure they are okay."
"I have a feeling Madelyn and Ariel are probably somewhere together," said Amy.
"I wouldn't doubt it," said Hotaru.
Annika had come up to hug her mother. Raye knelt down to return the hug. "Have you seen Ariel and Madelyn," she asked the little girl.
"I think I saw them hiding underneath the dessert table," said Annika.
"Why didn't you tell anyone," asked Raye.
"No one asked me," said Annika simply.
"Let's go and check under the dessert table," said Amy. "Maybe our little rascals are still there."
Hotaru and Amy walked over to the dessert table. Amy lifted the tablecloth and sure enough Ariel and Madelyn were under there. On the floor was an empty cake platter. The two little girls were covered with chocolate cake.
"Madelyn," said Hotaru. "Come out from under there right now."
"You too Ariel," said Amy in exasperation.
The two little girls crawled out. Cake was all over their dresses. "Did you both eat the whole thing," asked Hotaru.
"Yes," said Ariel.
"It was yummy," said Madelyn. "But now I feel sick."
"So do I," said Ariel clutching her stomach.
"Serves you right," said Amy sternly as she tried to clean Ariel up.
"You know better," said Hotaru as she also tried to clean her daughter up. "I guess we should go back to our quarters."
Madelyn was very sick the next day with a stomachache. Hotaru was not happy with her child but decided not to punish her. As far as she was concerned the child made her own punishment with the chocolate cake. Madelyn made a promise to herself that she would never eat an entire cake again.
A couple of days later the children were on their way home from school. Annika and Gloria were giggling.
"What is so funny," demanded Daisy.
"Nothing," said Annika gazing at Daisy with her wide innocent eyes.
"Hey Madelyn and Ariel," said Gloria. "We have something for the two of you."
"What is it," asked Madelyn.
Annika and Gloria held out two pieces of chocolate cake. "Chocolate cake just for you," they said in a chorus.
"Yuck," yelled Ariel.
"Get it away," cried Madelyn as a wave of nausea came over her. Ariel and Madelyn sped toward home leaving a cloud of dust behind them.
Chapter 8: Heroism
Madelyn could not believe it when she saw Gloria toss Annika's hat onto the icy lake. Madelyn was young but she knew an icy lake could be dangerous. That is why she was nervous when Annika stepped out on the ice to retrieve her hat.
"Be careful Annika," said Rini.
"You do not want to fall," said Maggie.
"I won't," said Annika and she got her hat. "I got it!"
Madelyn suddenly heard a very loud crack. Then Annika disappeared. Madelyn was horrified when she realized Annika had fallen in the water. She began to scream with the others as Rini called out to Annika. Out of the corner of her eye Madelyn saw Gloria running away.
"Help," Annika screamed as she went under.
"Ariel get your mother and Mars," said Rini and Ariel ran toward the palace. "The rest of us need to form a chain and get Annika out of there. Madelyn you are the smallest. You need to go first."
Madelyn gulped nervously. Saving Annika was up to her now. "Okay," she said nervously. She took Hope's hand and carefully stepped onto the ice leading the chain of girls. "I have to save Annika," she said to herself. She was scared. What if she fell through too? The hole seemed so far away. Madelyn continued to walk cautiously on the ice. After what seemed like an eternity she got to the hole. Madelyn let go of Hope's hand and lay down on her stomach. She felt Hope's hand grip her ankle. Madelyn took a deep breath and dipped her arms in the frozen water. Madelyn gasped as the cold hit her. It was so painful and poor Annika had her whole body in there. Madelyn felt around and found Annika's arm. She grabbed it and pulled. Annika came to the surface crying hysterically. Her face was badly scratched.
"I got her," Madelyn screamed to the girls and she felt herself being pulled backward. She pulled Annika to the surface. When they finally got to the shore Rini picked Annika up while saying comforting words to her. They all headed toward the palace. Madelyn was freezing and her arms hurt. Mars, Mercury, Venus and Ariel met them.
"Annika," screamed Mars snatching Annika from Rini.
"We need to get her back to the palace and into a hot bath before she freezes," said Mercury wrapping a blanket around Annika. "Rini take Madelyn to Saturn and tell her to get those arms in some warm water so she won't get sick."
"Right," said Rini as she took Madelyn's hand.
"Where is Gloria," demanded Venus.
"I don't know," said Rini. "She took off as soon as Annika fell."
"Just wait until I find her," said Venus and she left.
"Gloria is in big trouble isn't she," asked Madelyn through chattering teeth. She was so cold.
"That's putting it mildly," said Rini. "Come on. We need to find your mother."
An hour later Madelyn was sitting on the couch in dry clothes with her arms under a heating pad. Hotaru had put her in a hot bath as soon as they got back to their quarters. Madelyn felt a lot better and a lot warmer.
"Here you go," said Hotaru handing her a cup of hot cocoa.
"Thank you," said Madelyn as she took it. The hot drink tasted wonderful.
"I am so proud of you Darling," said Hotaru sitting down next to her daughter.
"You are," asked Madelyn.
"Yes," said Hotaru. "You helped save Annika's life."
"I hope she will be okay," said Madelyn.
"She will be," said Hotaru. "You got her out of that water quickly and Aunt Amy and Aunt Raye took her inside right away. She should be fine."
"She won't lose any of her arms or legs will she," asked Madelyn.
"What gave you that idea," asked Hotaru.
"My friend Kara's mother is a nurse and she told me that if someone's arms or legs get too cold then they have to cut them off," said Madelyn.
"That's only if they are in the freezing cold for days," said Hotaru. "Annika was only in there for a few minutes. She will be fine."
"Good," said Madelyn in relief.
Another hour passed when there was a knock at the door. It was Amy. "I just wanted to check on Madelyn," she said.
"She's fine," said Hotaru. "I gave her a hot bath and put the heating pad on her arms. She is nice and warm now."
"That's good," said Amy.
"How is Annika," asked Hotaru.
"She's shaken up but she is going to be all right," said Amy. "We managed to avoid frostbite. Physically she is going to be just fine. Emotionally I am not sure. She had a huge fright."
"Can we see her," asked Madelyn.
"Of course," said Amy.
"Mama I want to get her a present," said Madelyn.
"All right," said Hotaru. "We'll go to the store and then go and see Annika."
Later on Madelyn, Hotaru and Anthony went to Mars's quarters. In her hand Madelyn clutched a small teddy bear she got for Annika. It was a purple bear, which was Annika's favorite color.
Annika was wrapped in an electric blanket on her mother's lap. Her face was very pale and had a few scratches on it. She was also shaking like a leaf. Raye was holding her tightly.
"Hi Annika," said Madelyn giving her the teddy bear. "This is for you."
"Thank you," said Annika softly as she took the bear.
"Are we doing all right," asked Hotaru.
"We are," said Raye. "Madelyn?"
"Yes Ma'am," said Madelyn.
"Thank you for what you did today," said Raye. "You helped save my daughter's life. I am very grateful. Rini was here earlier with her parents and she told me what all of you did. I know you had the hardest job putting your arms in that freezing water."
"We are both very proud of her too," said Anthony putting his hand on his daughter's head.
"I just hope she does not get sick," said Hotaru.
"I know what you mean," said Raye looking down at her trembling daughter.
"Well we just wanted to check and see how Annika was doing," said Hotaru. "We will let her get some rest now."
"Thank you," said Raye.
"I can't believe Gloria did that to her," said Madelyn. "She is so mean."
"Her mother will deal with her," said Hotaru. "But don't worry about her. I am proud of you because of what you did."
Madelyn felt a prickle of pride as she went back to their quarters.
Chapter 9: Epidemic
One day when the children got home from school they had a letter with disturbing news. "A respiratory infection has hit the elementary school," said Mercury. "Apparently it is a bad one."
"Six kids from our class went home with it today," said Maggie.
"We had ten children from our class absent," added Gloria.
"This does not sound good," said Jupiter.
"It's not," said Mercury. "Apparently some children are in the hospital because of this." Mercury gave both Madelyn and Annika a worried look. Madelyn got sick very easily and if something was going around she usually caught it. Ever since Annika fell through the ice she had gotten sick easily. Mercury knew that the incident had knocked down Annika's immune system and because she was getting sick so often she had been unable to build it back up.
"Raye and Hotaru," she said in an urgent voice.
"Yes," said Mars and Saturn came over to listen.
"If I were you I'd keep these two home and home-school them until the epidemic is over with," said Mercury. "Those two have very fragile immune systems right now and there is no telling what would happen if they got this."
"I don't want to miss school," said Madelyn.
"Me either," said Annika.
"Sorry," said Mars whose mind was already made up. "I am not taking any chances. You are going to stay home until this passes. I will call the school in the morning and ask them to send your work over here."
"But Mama," wailed Annika.
"No 'buts'," said Mars firmly. "My mind is made up. I do not want you to get sick. You are staying home until this is over with."
Annika glared at Gloria. "This is all your fault," she snapped angrily. "If you had not thrown my hat out onto the lake I would be getting sick all the time."
"Enough," said Mars in a voice that told Annika to be quiet. "Let's go to our quarters now." The two left. Gloria was looking very upset but her mother kept a comforting arm around her.
"I agree with Mars," said Saturn. "I am going to call the school in the morning too."
"Mama I don't want to," whined Madelyn.
"Too bad," said Saturn. "I do not want you to get sick either. You are also staying home until this is over with."
Madelyn pouted. She had no one to blame.
The next couple of days were boring. Madelyn and Annika had to sit in the playroom and do their schoolwork. Hotaru and Raye took turns teaching them their lessons. The two girls could not wait until this was over with and they could go back and be with their friends. They looked forward to the end of the school day when the other children got home. According to them a more than half the school was out sick now.
On the fourth day Amy came to Hotaru's quarters worried.
"What is going on," asked Hotaru.
"Both Gloria and Hope got the infection," she said. "They both seem to have a mild case of it but now Madelyn and Annika have been directly exposed to it."
"Oh no," said Hotaru in horror.
"Mama," said a voice and Hotaru turned to see Madelyn standing at her bedroom looking very pale. "I feel yucky."
Amy rushed over to Madelyn and felt her forehead. "She's got a high fever," she said. "Let's get her back to bed."
After a thorough examination it was clear the Madelyn had the infection. Annika still showed no signs of having it so Raye decided to take her to her cousin's cabin until all this was over with. That way Annika was away from the infection. Faith went to stay with Lita, Ken and Daisy so she would not be exposed to her sick sister. The four of them went to Ken's parents to limit their exposure. Maggie's father decided to send her to stay with his sister. Greg took Ariel to visit his father. Finally Rini was sent to stay with her grandparents. Amy set up a hospital room so she could take care of all three children together.
A few days passed and there was no change. One night Hotaru sat beside her daughter holding her hand. For three nights Madelyn had been tossing around in delirium not even aware of anything around her. Hotaru refused to leave her side.
"Hotaru," said Amy. "You need to get some rest. I'll contact you if anything changes."
"I cannot leave her side," said Hotaru. "If I lose her I do not know what I will do."
"You are not going to lose her," said Amy. "I checked today. No one has died from this."
"Not yet," said Hotaru.
"She is not going to die," said Amy firmly. "I will not let her. Now go and get some sleep. Doctor's orders."
Hotaru reluctantly went back to her quarters. Amy was right. She needed to sleep.
The next morning Amy greeted Hotaru and Anthony with a smile. "Madelyn's fever broke during the night," she said. "She is awake and eating a big breakfast."
"Thank goodness," said Hotaru in relief. "How are the other two."
"Their fever broke too," said Amy. "They are all going to be okay."
"Thank you Amy," said Anthony in relief.
"What are you two waiting for," said Amy with a laugh. "Go and see her."
Hotaru and Anthony went over to Madelyn. She had just finished eating breakfast.
"Hi Mama and Papa," she said.
"Madelyn," said Hotaru flinging her arms around her daughter. "Thank God you are going to be all right."
"I know," said Madelyn. "I'm glad. I hate being that sick."
"So do we Darling," said Anthony with a laugh. "But it is all over now. In a few days you can get up."
Hotaru was thankful her daughter was going to be all right.
Chapter 10: The Symbol of Saturn
Hotaru knew the day was coming. Madelyn was now in second grade and if Hotaru recalled that was the age she was when she came back to the 20th century as Sailor Chibi Saturn. Hotaru was wondering if she was ready to tell her child that she was also a Soldier of Destruction. So far since Madelyn was born Hotaru was lucky that she did not have to sacrifice herself. Hotaru did not want her daughter to have to do the same thing.
"Mama," said Madelyn breaking Hotaru out of her thoughts.
"What is it Darling," asked Hotaru.
"I finished my puzzle," she replied. "Come and take a look."
Hotaru walked over to the table. Recently Madelyn had taken a liking to jigsaw puzzles. She spent hours working on them. Hotaru and Anthony went out and bought her a good number of them. Anything to keep the child occupied. "Good job," said Hotaru. "You worked it fast."
"I am going to do another one," said Madelyn pulling out another box. She shifted over and began to work on the new puzzle next to the one she just finished. Hotaru watched her child closely. Suddenly Madelyn's forehead began to glow. Hotaru looked and saw that her suspicions were correct. It was the symbol of Saturn.
Saturn was on her way to her quarters. The Scouts had a meeting with the Queen that day. All of the Scouts had seen their symbols of their daughters' foreheads. It was time to awaken the new scouts. Saturn was nervous. She just had a talk with Sailor Pluto who assured her that she was a good mother and that Madelyn will be a good Chibi Scout. Saturn clutched Madelyn's new transformation stick in her hand. Will her child be able to accept that she was a soldier of Death and Destruction?
"I guess I am about to find out," Saturn said to herself as she entered her quarters.
End of Part Six.
Well that is the end of Part Six. Next will be Part Seven: Hope and Faith