Well, guys, this is it! Lily's biggest trial yet. I hope I did well writing about her pregnancy and the birth of her child.

I was originally going to wait to post this on Mother's Day, but this chapter ends on a cliffhanger and the next chapter will really cover what Lily is like as a new mother. Plus, there's more to this than meets the eye. Meanwhile, enjoy and review!

DISCLAIMER: I do not own anything related to "TMNT," "Meet the Robinsons," "Lord of the Rings," "Toy Story," nor "Criminal Case," nor do I own Sixpence None the Richer's "Kiss Me." I only own Lilianna, James, Ryan, Justine, Venus, Athena, Anna, Jasper, and Karena.

April 1, 2050- Westport, Connecticut, USA

WILBUR'S POV

"Thank you both for meeting with me."

"You're welcome here anytime, Donnie," I encouraged him.

"How have things been since the mock trial?" Karena asked. "How's Anna doing?"

"Well, before we get down that path, I have some news, bad news."

"Is Lily okay?" I asked in alarm.

"Oh, Lily's fine!" Donnie answered, also in alarm as if he wasn't expecting that question. "It's just that..."

He sighed.

"My property's been destroyed."

"The farmhouse?" I asked with shock.

"Oh, no!" Karena exclaimed.

"Do you remember my telling everyone that I still had a stash of retro-mutagen?" Donnie asked and we nodded. "Somehow, Stockman found it. And that's not all. Lily and Anna together found out the Vizioso gang escaped prison, too, and they came to the farmhouse with Stockman."

"How bad is the damage?" I asked.

"Everything's been hit. All of my hard work, destroyed! Even the chapel!"

"Oh, Donnie, that's one of your best works!" Karena replied with sympathy. "Is there anything we can do?"

"I'll ask my family to help you fix and rebuild," I offered.

Donnie let out a shocked chuckle.

"Wilbur, that's too much!"

"No, I insist. You all have done a lot for me since Lily came into our lives. It's time we return the favor."

"I should be the one owing you! You took Lily in as one of your own when she was kidnapped!"

"You already have, D," Karena said with a smile. "You helped me through college. You gave me away at my wedding. You helped me birth two kids. Now it's our turn. Please let our family help you."

Donnie looked concerned about accepting our offer. After a few moments, he closed his eyes and nodded slowly.

New York City, New York, USA

LEONARDO'S POV

"Do we have to have another family meeting?" Athena asked.

"Yes," I answered. "After the events of this week, we need to take new paths."

"Baxter Stockman could still be anywhere on Earth or in the Ten Dimensions," Mona Lisa replied over a hologram.

"Where are you now?"

"China."

"And the dimensionizer Donatello gave me hasn't done me any good," Karena chimed in, holding Wesley in her lap. "Every time I track him to another dimension, he's already gone."

"But now keep in mind that we need to find the Vizioso gang, too," Donnie chimed in. "But I'm not sure I can do that with the farmhouse damaged. April and I need to stay and do some repairs."

"Oh, speaking of which!" Wilbur chimed in. "I spoke to my family shortly after you left and they all unanimously agreed to help you. The family who don't have jobs will fly out to Westport to help you and to visit us. My parents are gonna fly out next weekend to help. You may have to meet with them and see what you want them to do."

Donnie simply smiled.

"Thank you, Wilbur," April replied. "The farmhouse is over 100 years old. Any help is appreciated."

"But back to the Vizioso gang?" Lily chimed in. "Did they all escape?"

"Don Vizioso died in prison," Raph explained. "His son Antonio is the new gang leader. He's the one we'll have to keep an eye on."

I turned towards Wilbur, who suddenly looked deep in thought.

"What is it, Wilbur?" I asked. "Is something wrong?"

"I wonder if I could use some more training. I mean, psychic training. Sure, my mental powers are defensive, but I wonder if there's anything on offense that I can learn."

"Get with April and Lily on that."

"We'll do our best," Lily answered. "But keep in mind our powers didn't start out that way. Mine began with reading a single thought."

"And mine was just sensing emotion," April chimed in.

"And also, it was my dad who trained me the most on my powers," Lily said.

"And it was Splinter who trained me. And neither of them were psychics."

"But wait, Wilbur, aren't you a Jedi?" Athena asked. "Don't you already have psychic powers because of that?"

"Only to defend others," Wilbur answered. "Obi-Wan's taught me a few things but I'm afraid he was not able to go to the great lengths of it. His loss really took a toll on his mental health."

"I'm technically a Jedi myself," Lily chimed in. "I've trained myself to use my powers to force someone to speak the truth and to tell them what to do. And I have wielded a double-bladed saber."

"And you can fly," Athena said, still in disbelief.

"But unfortunately, I am not able to train you, Wilbur. My powers right now are limited because of my pregnancy."

"It never stopped you from fighting anyway," Wilbur answered with a raised brow.

"Wilbur, I believe you have the tools at your disposal already," I chimed in. "It is up to you on how to use them. But back to the matter at hand. Mona Lisa and Venus are in China searching for Stockman and the Vizioso mob. Lily, I take it you still want to do your patrols as Aumanil?"

"Hai, sensei."

"Lily, be careful," Donnie warned her. "You are getting very close to the end of your pregnancy. I'd like to talk about that at your next appointment."

"My parents and I will continue to patrol New York City," Athena spoke.

"Me too," Raph replied.

"I gotta help Donnie with our repairs," April chimed in with a frown. "It's my property, too."

"The three of us will continue to patrol Todayland," Ryan said over the phone. "But we've already eliminated the possibility that Stockman would come here. The city's tight with security."

"Then Leo and I will go with April and Donatello to the farmhouse," Karai concluded. "Does anyone else have questions?"

We all shook our heads, and the meeting was adjourned.

April 8, 2050 - North Hampton, New York, USA

DONATELLO'S POV

The Hamato Clan and Robinson Family worked together to repair the farmhouse, barn, and chapel this past week. April was in charge of repairs to the house while I was in charge of the barn. I tried to repair the chapel myself since it was my creation. Unfortunately, I was not able to. Stockman had taken my Kraang crystals as well.

The barn was easy to fix, thanks to Laszlo's gift of art and his helicopter hat. But my collection of family pictures were destroyed.

"Donatello, are you alright?" Laszlo asked.

I glanced around the barn. It looked so empty without my collection.

"My entire life was in this barn," I explained. "Splinter, my brothers, and I when we started out. When April came into our lives, and then Casey. When April became a kunoichi. When we got engaged--"

"I understand," Laszlo replied with interruption. "I think I have an idea."

Laszlo got his paints together.

"Close your eyes."

I closed my eyes and heard Laszlo flying around me with his paints.

"Donatello," I suddenly heard Splinter speak inside my mind. "Do not worry, my son. New life is coming soon, and you will embrace it. Embrace the change, my son."

I grinned softly, suddenly imagining April with me. And then Lily came into the hug, and then...

"My grandson," I softly spoke.

"What?" Laszlo suddenly asked.

I opened my eyes and gasped. The inside of the barn was a work of art in itself. I glanced towards the door where I found a painting of Splinter looking down proudly at the four turtle tots - me and my brothers. The path went to the right and eventually included April and Casey. On the next wall, Laszlo painted me and April in our wedding attire and then at the corner, we were holding a baby Lily in our arms. The next wall detailed Lily's life growing up, which then included her wedding to James and then her pregnancy displayed on the next wall by the barn door.

"Laszlo..."

I grinned.

"It's beautiful! This is the most creative thing I have ever seen."

"If you still want to hang pictures on the walls, you can," Laszlo replied.

"No, this is perfect. Thank you."

"So what's next?"

"I'd say the chapel, but there's nothing we can do," I answered, my grin fading away. "Without the crystals from Dimension X, I cannot mold them into glass."

"Cousin Cornelius is coming today," Laszlo explained with a smile. "Maybe he can help."

I gasped. I had forgotten Cornelius and Franny were flying into New York today.

"Donatello, relax," Laszlo assured me, putting a hand on my shoulder. "Wilbur and Karena are picking them up."

APRIL'S POV

The ladies of the Robinson family helped me rebuild and repaint the rooms upstairs while Bud, Joe, and Fritz repaired downstairs. We repainted the bathroom a light yellow. The master bedroom, or bridal suite, became a lavender purple. Lily's old bedroom, or groom suite, was now a light blue. Thankfully, the attic was easy to clean.

Then the ladies and I went downstairs and repainted the rooms there. The kitchen and dining room was now a light forest green to blend in with the woods in the backyard. And the living room and hall were now a light orange.

"Great job, everyone!" I commended everyone. "Let's go see how the barn and chapel look."

We all walked outside to the backyard where we also saw Donnie and Laszlo walking out the barn.

"April!" Donnie yelled excitedly. "You gotta come see the barn!"

"We'll all go," Billie said behind me.

I followed the two men into the barn and I let out a delighted gasp. There were murals all around the barn with details of Donnie's life that included his wedding to me and the birth of our daughter.

"This is beautiful!" I exclaimed. "But Laszlo, how did you know?"

Laszlo grinned.

"Wilbur may be the historian of this world, but Karena is the historian of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. She told me what to display on these walls when Donatello revealed his pictures were gone."

I gazed at the painting where Lily found her identity as Aumanil. It was my daughter in her samurai-like outift with the sun shining behind her. I smiled, proud that Lily incorporated Aumanil into her identity instead of keeping the two identities separate.

Then I glanced at the painting where Lily was expecting. Lily was gazing out while cradling her baby bump, wearing her black Aumanil dress. I saw a glimmer of hope in her blue eyes, and then next to her was the door outside, where a new chapter awaited her.

"Laszlo, thank you for doing this," I told him.

"You did an amazing job, bro," Tallulah complimented him.

We all walked outside to where the chapel was, and it was in the same state as it was a week ago.

"So what do we do about the chapel?" I asked.

"I have to go to Dimension X for more crystals," Donnie answered. "Stockman took my spare batch."

"I might have an idea."

We all jumped at Cornelius's voice behind us.

"I could use my technology to rebuild your chapel, Donatello," Cornelius explained.

"Does this technology involve turning crystal into glass?" Donnie asked.

"It does! But does it have to be Dimension X crystals?"

"Yes. Believe it or not, the type of crystal makes a huge difference in quality. These crystals brought life into the chapel, especially for my daughter's wedding."

"Well, then let's go to Dimension X!" Cornelius said enthusiastically.

"Whoa whoa whoa!" Donnie exclaimed. "We can't leave right now!"

"Donnie, there's nothing else we can do right now," I assured him. "The chapel's all that's left. And besides, we can try to find Stockman and the mob there. You and I will go."

"I'll go, too," Franny volunteered. "I've always been curious about this Utrom Council Wilbur talks about."

"And I'm going to keep my wife safe," Cornelius chimed in.

"Karena and I will go, too," Wilbur said.

"Who's going to watch the kids?" Franny asked bewilderment.

"We will," Tallulah volunteered. "I need to see my godson again, anyway."

"Well, we gotta go back to New York so I can get breathers for each of you," Donnie said.

The six of us got in Wilbur's flying car and drove back to the city.

April 15, 2050 - New York City, New York, USA

LILIANNA'S POV

"And just like that, everything got fixed?" I asked in awe.

"Yeah!" Dad replied enthusiastically. "The Robinsons were a big help. The ladies helped your mom fix and repaint the rooms upstairs, the Robinson brothers fixed the downstairs. And then Laszlo and I fixed the barn together and there's now this beautiful mural of our lives inside. And then Cornelius helped me retrieve crystals from Dimension X and we fixed the chapel right up. It all looks brand new!"

"What did the Utrom Council say?" I asked as my dad squirted some blue gel on my very large baby bump.

"The Utrom Council separated and are now assisting us with finding Stockman and the Vizioso gang in the Ten Dimensions. Speaking of which, any luck on your end?"

"No, though now I'm not going every night. I've been going every two nights, which might lower the further along I get in this pregnancy."

"Well, you are thirty-six weeks pregnant, so it's good you're cutting back. I take it you're cutting back on your tai chi, too?"

"Yes. I've been sitting as long as I can at work and at home. I'm only doing one pose that Auntie Mona taught me and it's the position that would open my cervix up when it's time for labor and delivery."

"And that's something we'll talk about here in a second."

Dad paused as he examined my baby on the ultrasound.

"Head is still down, which is awesome. Baby boy is at the perfect weight."

I froze.

"How did you know I'm having a boy?" I asked.

"How did you know?" Dad asked in alarm. "I'm the doctor. That's how I know."

I raised an eyebrow at him as I read his mind.

"Splinter told you," I revealed.

"Alright, yes, Splinter told me. I take it he told you, too?"

"Actually, no. I found that out on my own. I can read my baby's thoughts."

Dad smiled.

"Just like your mom. Well, whatever you are doing is working great! Your baby's in excellent health. And so are you. Now..."

Dad's smile faded away and he gave me a serious look.

"Like I said before, you are at thirty-six weeks. I want to see you every week until the baby's born. Starting today, I want to check your cervix, but because I'm your father, I want to ask for your permission first. Your mother's cervix was one thing. She's my wife. But you're my daughter. I'll admit, I feel a little uncomfortable checking your cervix."

"Dad."

I put my hand in his.

"I trust you. Do what you need to do."

I took off my leggings and undies. I felt my dad measuring me. Thankfully, it didn't take long. My dad had a smile on his face.

"Okay, so you have started effacing but you haven't dilated yet."

"What does that mean?" I asked.

"Effacement means your cervix is thinning out. Your cervix needs to be one hundred percent effaced before delivery. As for dilation, contractions cause that. The stronger your contractions are, the more you dilate. You would have to be ten centimeters dilated before you start to push."

"But what if I'm having a C-section as planned?"

Dad let out a sigh.

"I've thought about that. Lily, you've done a wonderful job throughout your pregnancy despite the complications that came with it. I still believe I need to perform the surgery, but there is a chance you would be able to deliver your baby on your own. After all, your mother delivered you naturally."

"True, but I didn't have a shell on my back."

"Eh, you do, Lily. It's just hidden. So if you do end up going into labor naturally, an epidural is not an option. The needle would break."

"That's alright. I'm brave. I can handle it."

My dad winced with concern.

"Lord, I hope so."

April 22, 2050- Pacific Bay, California, USA

I sat in the rocking chair in my son's room feeling proud of myself. My dad came over to check my cervix and I effaced just a little more, but not by much. After that, I finished the nursery, finally feeling ready for the baby to be born.

While I was preparing my son's crib, I felt a lightening in my midsection and then I felt a little more pressure in my pelvis. My dad explained that the baby had dropped, meaning labor was close. I had prayed in the moment the baby would stay in my womb for a few more weeks.

My mind drifted off to what it would be like if I had my baby in my arms. Suddenly, I started humming, cradling my huge baby bump as my son moved inside me. And then I started singing softly.

"Kiss me, down by the broken tree house. Swing me up on its hanging tire. Bring, bring, bring your flowered hat. We'll take the trail marked on your father's map. Oh! Kiss me beneath the milky twilight. Lead me out on the moonlit floor. Lift your open hand. Strike out the band. Make the fireflies dance, silver moon's sparking. So kiss me."

"Lily! Are you here?"

I jumped and the baby gave me the best kick he could give me. I groaned in pain as I attempted to answer.

"Just a minute, Anna!" I yelled. "Just gotta get off this rocking chair!"

Now getting off the rocking chair was a struggle. No matter how many times I attempted to get up, I couldn't.

"Anna, could you help me?" I yelled. "I'm in the baby's room!"

It only took a couple minutes for Anna to find me. We both laughed when she walked in.

"Grab my hands," she told me, and I did. "One, two, three!"

She effortlessly pulled me up. I let out a huge breath and rubbed the top of my baby bump.

"Thank you!" I breathlessly told her. "Goodness, I'm huge! This baby's weighing me down."

"You look amazing, Lily," Anna complimented me. "Just three weeks left."

I let out a huge sigh.

"Time flies! It only felt like yesterday I found out I was pregnant. And now I'm just three weeks away from meeting my son. How did this happen?"

"You've been focused on taking care of yourself and your son. You should be proud of yourself."

"I am. And guess what happened?"

"What?"

"My dad now thinks it's possible I can deliver my son naturally."

"Lily, that's amazing!" Anna encouraged me. "You've come so far. You deserve to have the birth you want."

"We're going to talk about my birth plan next week. I'm already starting to efface."

"And what about contractions?"

"Not very strong yet. I'll get practice contractions, but they don't last very long and they're not frequent. I get about two a day."

"Oh!" Anna exclaimed. "Sorry to change the subject, but I have some news, too."

"What is it?"

"I passed my mock trial! I'm going to graduate and become a lawyer in just a couple weeks!"

We both screamed excitedly and hugged each other.

"This deserves a celebratory dinner!" I said excitedly. "How does tacos sound to you?"

"That sounds amazing. Do you need help going down the stairs?"

I chuckled.

"Not yet. When I do, I'll let you know."

I started walking out the nursery but then I noticed I was moving funny. Instead of walking straight, I was leaning side to side as I walked.

"Anna, is this normal?"

Anna, wearing a blue sundress, giggled.

"You have adopted the mom-to-be walk called the waddle," she answered. "That is very normal because the baby is putting pressure on your pelvis."

"Just watch. I'm gonna be sitting weird, too."

"Hey, at least your due date is only three weeks away."

"Very true!"

I walked out the nursery and waddled the entire way down the stairs and into the kitchen. Along the way, I passed my husband in the dining room. His eyes immediately darted to my huge bump.

"Oh, my gosh, you dropped!" James exclaimed. "Are you in labor yet? Is it time?"

I immediately got annoyed.

"No!" I answered angrily. "I'm not in labor. The baby just dropped. That is all that happened."

"Lily, you need to sit down," James told me. "I'll make dinner."

"But I was gonna make tacos for Anna," I replied. "She passed her mock trial."

"Congratulations, Anna. But Lily, you are so close to the due date. You need to rest."

"I'm fine, James!" I snapped. "I'm pregnant, not sick!"

"Sit. I'll make tacos."

Before I could say another word, James walked out of the dining room and into the kitchen. I grunted as I sat down, feeling rather angry at his reaction.

April 29, 2050 - New York City, New York, USA

I was back in New York for my exam with my father. This exam was rather easy. My father was simply checking my cervix.

"How have your Braxton Hicks contractions been going?" Dad asked.

"More frequent," I answered. "Just last week I was only getting two a day. Now I'm getting five a day."

"Have they gotten stronger?"

"Yes," I answered with realization. "But they don't hurt. Did I dilate?"

"Yes, you did. You're at two centimeters dilation right now. Have you lost your mucus plug?"

"Yes! A couple days ago. Is labor around the corner?"

"I believe so," Dad answered honestly. "But sometimes it's hard to determine whether you're in labor or not. With that said, let's talk about your birth plan. Clearly, we're not going to the hospital."

"No. I actually have it all figured out. We'll deliver the baby in the master bedroom on the bed. There's lots of room. James will be in the room with me."

"Wait, hold on!" Dad exclaimed, taking out his tablet. "I have a template. Name: Lilianna Hamato. Support person: James Anderson."

"Dad, do you have to do that out loud?" I asked.

"Yes! It helps me think. Now, what is your planned delivery method?"

I bit my lip.

"C-section."

"Lily, are you sure?" Dad asked with worry.

"We scheduled a C-section. We might as well stick with it."

"Well, alright. Are you sure you don't want to try for a natural birth?"

"We scheduled it on the ninth. Are you planning on inducing me?"

My dad set the tablet down.

"Lily, I miscalculated the due date. I had scheduled the surgery on the ninth because I thought your due date was the sixth. But since it's now before your due date, we're gonna try to go into labor naturally first. If you get past forty-one weeks and two days, then we'll induce. Okay?"

I nodded in agreement with an understanding smile.

"Now where were we?" Dad asked out loud, picking his tablet back up. "Do you want to eat or drink during labor?"

"Yes to drinking."

"Okay. Do you want to move around during labor?"

"Yes."

"Do you want to labor in water?"

I remembered that I was born in the water. I nodded at my dad's question.

"Music?"

"Yes."

"Dim lighting?"

"Yes."

"Scented candles?"

"No."

"Do you want pictures taken?"

"That's a thing?" I asked skeptically.

"Have you watched childbirth videos on the internet?" Dad asked with just as much skepticism.

"Yes, and no, no pictures."

"Do you want an exercise ball?"

"Yes. There's one in the baby's room."

"I think pain relief and medical assistance is straight forward. How do you feel about massages during labor?"

"That sounds wonderful!" I answered enthusiastically.

"Okay. Now when the baby is born vaginally, would you like to use the mirror to see when the baby's crowning?"

"No."

"Fascinating. What about James? Would you like him to cut the umbilical cord?"

"Yes!"

"Now, if we have to have a C-section, did you want to be conscious?"

"No. I never want to see one again. It's painful to me inside that I'm actually going to go through it myself."

My father frowned and set the tablet down. He walked around to my right side and put a hand on my shoulder.

"Lily, no matter how you deliver your son, you are still the bravest woman I've ever known."

"Me? What about Mom, the woman who delivered me?"

"Think of everything you have accomplished so far in your life. And then think of all you've done in your pregnancy. Despite the news that your son will be a humanoid turtle, you kept going. That alone put you in a great position for birth and for motherhood. You are going to do amazing. And Mom and I are behind you and James every step of the way."

I started crying. I got up and I hugged my dad, who hugged me back. Two weeks could not come soon enough.

May 7, 2050 - San Diego, California, USA

JAMES'S POV

Lily and I left for San Diego last Saturday so we wouldn't have to worry about traveling later in the week. Lily had given me encouraging news about her pregnancy so far, and she hit thirty-nine weeks yesterday. Our baby was going to be here next week, and we were both over-the-moon excited about meeting him or her.

Lily and I both had an early start this morning. Anna's graduation was at nine, so we were both up at seven. While Lily got ready for the day, I made breakfast: scrambled eggs and bacon. I set our plates at the little table in our hotel room and put our breakfast on them.

I glanced up and saw Lily slowly waddling back in the room from the bathroom, wearing a purple dress with black leggings underneath. I smiled.

"I made you breakfast," I told her.

But Lily shook her head.

"I'm not feeling hungry this morning."

I grew concerned.

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah! I'm fine!"

Just when Lily said that, she closed her eyes, placed both her hands at the bottom of her very large baby bump, and moaned quietly, leaning into the wall.

"Lily? Are you sure you're alright? Because that doesn't look like you're fine."

"James, I promise I'm fine," Lily replied with some strain in her voice. "It's just a cramp."

"Lily, you've been cramping a lot this morning. Maybe we should skip the graduation ceremony today and get your dad over here."

"NO. It's just cramps. I'll be fine."

Lily then started to breathe normally and sat down on the table.

"Well, please try to eat," I told my wife. "I'm gonna try to get changed."

"You're not going to eat with me?"

"I will! It won't take me long to get changed."

I grabbed my dress pants and purple polo shirt and went into the bathroom to change. But first, I took out my phone and made a call.

New York City, New York, USA

DONATELLO'S POV

I was putting my new pictures in my new frames when I heard my T-Phone ringing. I immediately picked up.

"Donatello."

"Hey, Dad, it's James. Can you give me an opinion on something?"

"Sure, but why are you talking quietly?"

"Lily doesn't know I'm in the bathroom making this call to you. Listen, something's wrong."

I tried my best to remain calm as my son-in-law continued.

"Lily's been cramping pretty much all morning and she's insisting they're cramps. Could this be labor?"

"Absolutely. Are they consistent?"

"I'm not sure. Lily was in the bathroom for quite a while. We both woke up at seven this morning, and that's when she first started cramping. I heard her having another one when she went in the bathroom. But then I started making breakfast and I haven't heard her. But then she got another one after she came out of the bathroom and after she said she wasn't hungry."

"James, I'm pretty sure Lily's in labor," I replied honestly. "But listen, start timing how often she cramps, because labor contractions do start out feeling like menstrual cramps. If it turns out they are labor contractions and they are five minutes apart for an hour, call me again and I will head right over to your place. Are you still planning on heading to Anna's graduation?"

"Yes, Lily's insisting on it."

"Then go to the graduation and then come right home. I'm pretty sure Lily will be having the baby today or tomorrow."

"Okay, Dad. I'll talk to you soon."

"See you later."

James hung up and I sat down at my desk, suddenly feeling weary. But then I felt motivation to get up and walk into the kitchen where I found April cooking lunch with Athena.

"Hey, D!" April greeted me with a smile.

"Hey, honey."

We kissed.

"Athena, would you mind if I spoke to Aunt April alone?"

"Sure! I can finish up here."

I led April outside the lair.

"This must be serious," April said with worry. "Is everything okay?"

"I just received a call from James," I explained. "He says Lily is cramping, but from the way he described her cramps, I'm positive it's labor."

"Oh my gosh, Donnie! She's only thirty-nine weeks!"

"The baby is full-term. But I'll admit, I'm surprised her labor, if it is labor, has already started. This is her first pregnancy. And it's gotten me worried. This is our daughter we're talking about. Helping you give birth to her seemed, well, easy. But just thinking about helping our own daughter give birth scares me. What if I lose our gift?"

"You won't, Donnie," April replied with confidence. "You are the best doctor I've ever known. When it comes down to it, you will save Lily's life."

We both frowned.

"Are you heading to Pacific Bay now?" she asked.

"No. I'm gonna wait for the call that Lily's contractions are five minutes apart. Until then, all we can do is wait."

"Let's go finish lunch, then."

We walked back into the lair with our arms around each other, eager to eat our lunch.

San Diego, California, USA

ANNA'S POV

I drove to the California Western School of Law for my graduation this morning. I had not attended a graduation ceremony in over 150 years when I graduated from secondary school in Minas Tirith. But I was very excited this time, because I was about to officially become a lawyer.

I got out of the car and retrieved my graduation cap and gown. I had worn a little black dress with no sleeves and black heels to match the gown. Though I will admit, I never saw the appeal of women wearing heels this tall. They are not comfortable. I would much rather be wearing boots.

I made my way to the graduation site and put on my cap and gown in the bathroom. I had put my long red hair up in a braided crown so the cap would easily fit and stay on my head. I let out a sigh and smiled.

"Father, if you can hear me, thank you for being with me. I'm graduating and becoming a lawyer today. I hope you're proud of me."

I walked out of the bathroom with a confident smile on my face. I walked back outside, found my spot, and didn't have to wait long at all for the ceremony to start. I slowly but surely walked inside the auditorium. I caught a quick glimpse at Jasper, who had found James and a very pregnant Lily and sat with them. The three of them cheered for me as I passed them, and then I went to my spot.

I sat down as the president of the school and other special guests made their speeches. I felt a little anxious, wondering when I would go up and get my degree.

Suddenly, I saw a vision. I closed my eyes. I had found a huge vat of orange ooze, which I assumed was the retro-mutagen Donatello spoke of. And behind the vat was Baxter Stockman in his human form.

"Anna Swan, top of her class."

"Anna, wake up!"

I quickly snapped back to reality as a classmate tapped me on the shoulder.

"Go!"

"Sorry!" I quickly replied.

I quickly got up on the stage and retrieved my diploma. I shook hands with the president.

"Congratulations, Miss Swan. You make us all very proud."

"Thank you, sir," I replied with a smile.

With my diploma in my hand, I hurried back to my seat with a proud smile. But then my smile disappeared. What would Baxter Stockman be doing with all that retro-mutagen, and how did he make that much in such a short time?

"Ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to present our new lawyers, the Class of 2050 from the California Western School of Law."

We all stood up and cheered, throwing our caps in the air like crazy. Well, I never threw my cap. It meant too much for me to just discard it. I kept the cap in my hands, and I walked out of the auditorium, concluding the graduation ceremony.

After my class disbanded, I used my gift of foresight to find Jasper, James, and Lily. I found them right by the door.

"Congratulations on becoming lawyer, Anna," Lily greeted me with a hug and a smile.

"Hannon le, Lilianna," I replied, returning the smile.

Suddenly, Lily closed her eyes and had a strange look on her face. I knew that look all too well. Lily was experiencing a contraction, though I had a feeling she didn't know it was a contraction, as she rubbed the bottom of her belly.

"Anna, may I see you?" James asked.

"Certainly. Lily, are you alright?"

"Yes. It's just a cramp. I'll be fine."

I raised my eyebrow at her, but I showed no judgement as James took me back into the auditorium.

"I'm pretty sure Lily's in labor," James explained.

"I agree."

"Oh, that's right! You worked in the Houses of Healing before you joined the Citadel Guard. Lily mentioned that. But anyway, she's been having contractions all morning and Donnie told me to time them. They were about ten minutes apart when we got up. Now they're seven minutes apart."

"Goodness, and it's already noon. Does Lily even know they're contractions?"

"No, she thinks they're cramps. Donnie told us to go right home once the ceremony was over. But you've given me an idea. Since you have experience with childbirth, maybe you could come with me and Lily. It'd be nice to have a woman with her on the way home, and it's a six-hour drive."

"Of course, I'll go with you. You two came all the way out here to see me graduate. Now I can return the favor and watch Lily birth your baby."

"Great!" James exclaimed with relief. "Thank you so much! Can you meet us at the hotel we're staying at? It's a LaQuinta."

"Of course. Just send me the address."

LILIANNA'S POV

James and Anna came out of the auditorium.

"Is everything okay?" I asked.

They glanced at each other.

"We should be asking you that," Anna replied. "Are you okay?"

"Goodness, why is everyone asking me that?" I asked in annoyance. "I'm fine. I'm just cramping. It's a part of pregnancy."

"But cramping all morning?" James asked with a raised eyebrow. "That's not just a part of pregnancy. That could be labor."

I blew a raspberry.

"Oh, please! I'd know labor when I feel it."

"Lily, I agree with--"

"Anna, why don't we get some pictures with you and Jasper?" I interrupted her, quickly taking out my phone.

We spent the next twenty minutes taking pictures with Anna, and I ended up cramping three more times. I breathed through them and moved on.

"Well, we're going to head to the hotel and then we'll be heading on home," James told Jasper and Anna.

"Thank you for coming!" Anna told us with a grin.

"It's our pleasure!" I replied.

We went our separate ways and James and I returned to the car. But when we got there, I felt another cramp, and this time, back pain and pelvic pressure came with it.

"Oh!" I exclaimed painfully. "Ooooh!"

"Lily, are you okay?" James asked.

There was no denying it this time.

"James, it's a contraction!"

I tried moving to open the door, but I was still in pain. I breathed out as the contraction continued. After a few more seconds, the pain subsided, and I was able to get in the car.

"Alright, Lily, we're gonna--"

"You are going to explain to me why you called my father behind my back!" I furiously interrupted him.

"Because your cramps were consistent," James answered. "I had to call your dad to be sure it was labor because you sure wouldn't."

"My dad would have told me to wait!"

"Well, that's not what he told me!" James angrily replied. "He told me we could attend the graduation and then head straight home. But we have to stop at the hotel first and check out. We're gonna lose a day's worth of money since we're checking out a day early."

"Just stop talking!" I snapped at him.

"Fine!"

"Fine!"

I crossed my arms and stared out the window as James drove us back to the hotel. I felt two contractions along the way but I tried to remain calm and breathed them out.

ANNA'S POV

Jasper and I arrived at my apartment.

"Praise Jesus!" I exclaimed, finally taking off the black high heels.

I immediately took off for my bedroom and closed the door so I could change my clothes in peace.

"Is Lily okay?" Jasper asked through the door.

"She's in labor," I answered, taking off my cap and gown.

"Ah-ha! That's why she kept cringing as she took pictures!"

I took off my little black dress.

"She was trying to hide it, but she won't be able to much longer. I'm actually going to Pacific Bay with Lily and James to help deliver their baby."

"Yeah, that's a good call. Will Donnie be there, too?"

I put on the bell-sleeved red dress my mother gave me.

"Not in the car! Goodness, I hope we'll make it back in time for Lily to give birth. I would not want to give birth in the car."

"I wouldn't either. So what are you going to do while James drives the two of you to their house?"

I put on black leggings.

"All I can do is keep Lily calm. She told me of her birth plan and I don't think she's going to be happy with her current circumstances."

"I'm glad it's you going and not me. Just be careful, Anna."

I finally finished putting on my socks and knee-length red boots. I opened the door and then darted to the living room to grab my purse.

"Anna."

I turned around to face my beloved. We shared an embrace, and then we shared a sweet kiss.

"Good luck," Jasper told me.

"Pray for us."

I took out my portal and immediately went to James and Lily's hotel room.

LILIANNA'S POV

Packing my things was harder than it looked. My contractions were currently lasting thirty-five seconds and they were seven minutes apart. When I wasn't contracting, I packed. James and I had not spoken a word to each other since we left the graduation, and that was an hour ago.

Suddenly, a portal opened, and out came Anna with a kind smile on her face. This time, she wore a long-sleeved red dress.

"Anna, what are you doing here?" I asked in alarm.

"I'm here to help you, Lily. James asked me to come along with you. If you end up giving birth in the car, then I know what to do."

"Well, that's one thing he did right!" I angrily replied, giving my husband a glare.

"Are you still going on about my calling your dad?" James asked in the same tone.

"Yes!"

"Oh my goodness, guys!" Anna exclaimed. "Yelling at each other isn't going to do anyone any good! James, Lily, you two are about to become parents, and Lily, this is going to stress you the heck out. You're having contractions. They'll be more painful the more labor progresses. Do you really want to be spending this time yelling at James simply for trying to help you?"

I glanced at my husband and we both frowned.

"James, I'm sorry. I guess I was being stubborn."

"I'm sorry, too. I should have asked your permission before I called your dad."

"I'm worried, too," I confessed. "I've been sitting here thinking these are strong Braxton Hicks contractions and now I feel pressure and back pain. It's not time yet."

"Hey, we'll get through this together," James consoled me, putting his hands on my shoulders. "I love you."

"I love you, too."

He held me, and then I felt another contraction beginning. I bent my knees slightly as I felt pressure in my pelvis and I was having slight back pain. I breathed in and out through my contraction until the thirty-five seconds were over.

"Good job, Lily," Anna encouraged me.

"Anna, we need to finish packing now," James sternly told her. "We gotta get Lily home!"

New York City, New York, USA

DONATELLO'S POV

Ever since we finished lunch, I had been pacing around in my lab, waiting for a call from James to hear about Lily's progress with her labor. I remember feeling worried when April had gone into labor, but somehow, worrying about Lily felt so much worse. This was my little girl going through the pains of childbirth this time, and it broke my heart thinking about the pain she will encounter soon.

It was now seven-thirty, and I didn't eat dinner. Suddenly, I heard knocking. I jumped and I screamed, turning towards the door, only to find my little brother walking in with a pizza in his hands.

"Dude, it's just me," Mikey said with a frown. "Are you okay?"

I buried my face in my hands and I let out a long, weary sigh.

"No, Mikey, I'm not okay. Lily's in labor."

"Oh my gosh!"

Mikey suddenly ran out of the lab, dropping the pizza on the ground.

"EVERYONE! LILY'S IN LABOR!"

I winced. This was not how I wanted everyone to hear the news. Suddenly, every single person in the Hamato Clan ran into my lab.

"Donnie, is this true?" Leo asked in alarm.

"Is Lily okay?" Renet asked.

"When's the baby coming?" Venus asked.

I was swarmed with questions. I quickly went from feeling weary to feeling annoyed. Taking a deep breath, I yelled out...

"QUIT IT!!!"

The room was dead silent as my T-Phone started to ring. Thankful for the distraction, I picked it up.

"Donatello."

"Donnie, it's Anna."

"Oh, hey, Anna!" I greeted her excitedly. "Congratulations on finally becoming a lawyer!"

"Thank you! I'm very excited. But now we have a problem. I'm in the car with James and Lily. James asked me to come along with them to Pacific Bay. Lily's contractions have been five minutes apart for the last hour. We're only halfway to their home!"

I let out a sigh, knowing exactly what this meant.

"Thank you, Anna. I'll head to their home right away."

I hung up and I turned towards my family.

"Lily's contractions are five minutes apart. I gotta go."

"Do you need help?" April asked.

"No, I need to be alone. I can't focus if there's anyone else there."

I grabbed my medical bag and my portal from my desk. April came up and hugged me. I hugged her back and then we kissed.

"Be safe, all of you," April told me.

"We will."

I opened the portal and I immediately entered my daughter's home.

Pacific Bay, California, USA

When I entered the living room of Lily's house, I immediately made my way to the kitchen. I found a bucket inside the closet. I carried the bucket upstairs with me. I set the bucket down in the master bedroom and then went in the bathroom.

I found lots of white towels, took them, and lied them down on the bed. I placed all the tools I needed on the bed in case I needed to perform a Caesarean surgery. Then I lifted the covers so Lily would be comfortable.

But then I knew it wouldn't be enough. I went in the spare closet and grabbed every pillow possible so that Lily's back would be comfortable. Then I went back in the bathroom and grabbed two white bath towels so that we wouldn't stain the bed.

Finally, I went into the baby's room. I rolled the exercise ball into the bedroom and then I grabbed the baby blanket Franny knitted for him. I set it aside in the master bedroom.

I returned to the nursery and collapsed on the rocking chair, now waiting for Lily to come home.

Santa Maria, California, USA

LILIANNA'S POV

I groaned at the onset of another contraction, and that was all I could focus on. I tried not to scream as hard as I squeezed Anna's hand in the backseat.

"You need to breathe, Lily," Anna encouraged me. "Breathe out. Remember your breathing exercises."

I did a lot more breathing out than I did breathing in. But that was all I could focus on as I continued to contract. Not too long after, my contraction was over and I spent the next few seconds catching my breath.

"They're getting stronger," I said breathlessly. "I can't talk anymore."

"James, where are we?" Anna asked with worry.

"We're passing through Santa Maria. We're about two hours away."

I growled in anger. This was not how I envisioned my labor at all.

"Of all the places I labor in, it's the freaking car?" I yelled. "And this baby could not wait until we got home?"

"Lily, you need to be patient," Anna tried to console me.

"I need to be patient?! Tell that to my child! Heck, try telling that to God!"

"Hey! God probably has a good reason for you being in labor right now. Trust him instead of test him!"

I continued my breathing. I glanced over to find Anna suddenly focused with her eyes closed and her hands on her forehead.

"Anna, are you okay?" I asked.

"I'm having a vision. Please."

I watched Anna for a few more minutes while I rubbed my baby bump. She suddenly opened her eyes and let out a gasp.

"What is it?" I asked.

"There's a vat full of retro-mutagen and the machine just turned on. Something's going on."

Suddenly, I felt wet. My eyes widened. I immediately placed my hand in between my legs, touching whatever liquid was making the seat wet. I brought my fingers up to my nose, where I smelled nothing. I suddenly felt horrified and very worried.

"Guys?" I said uneasily. "My water just broke."

"WHAT?" James yelled in a panic. "I'm speeding up."

"Be careful!" Anna yelled with worry.

I groaned as another contraction started and I was feeling even more pressure in my pelvis. I did my breathing exercises throughout the contraction until it was over after forty-five seconds. I then prayed out loud.

"Lord, please do not let me have this baby in the car!"

Pacific Bay, California, USA

DONATELLO'S POV

I had waited two and a half more hours for Lily to come home with James and Anna. At first, I felt relaxed. The more time had passed, however, the more I worried.

I took out my phone and called Anna.

"Hello?"

"Where are you guys?" I asked. "I'm getting worried."

"James, where are we? Donnie, we'll be there in five minutes. We just made our exit onto White Peaks."

"Oh, thank goodness!" I exclaimed. "How's Lily doing?"

"Her water broke back in Santa Maria, and that was two hours ago. Just the past-half hour, Lily's been having very strong contractions two minutes apart from each other. She's in a lot of pain."

"Oh, don't tell me she's in the transitional phase already! I'll meet you guys outside!"

I hung up and bolted out of the nursery and into the bathroom. I filled the bucket up with hot water and brought it back in the bedroom. Then I bolted down the stairs and out the door just in time to see James driving the car into the garage. I ran back inside the house, through the living room, through the dining room, and through the kitchen. I entered the garage and the door opened.

"Thank heavens!" I exclaimed. "You made it!"

"Just in time, I hope," James replied.

I walked over to Lily, who was sweating up a storm. I felt her forehead and I was thankful she did not have a fever. Her eyes were closed as her breathing was labored.

"Hey, Lily Mae," I greeted her with a smile. "How are you doing?"

Lily opened her eyes slightly and her blue eyes met mine. She smiled.

"Hey, Dad. Am I glad to see you!"

"Let's get you out of here."

Lily suddenly screamed, clutching onto her baby bump, and her legs started to shake uncontrollably.

"James, get her to the bedroom!" I yelled.

James instantly picked his wife up and brought her into the house, through the three rooms, and up the stairs. Anna and I followed them into the bedroom. By the time we got there, Lily's contraction was over as she lied on the bed.

"James, my nightgown!" she moaned.

"Wait, Lily, let me examine you first," I said. "James, can you help me?"

We worked together to take off her leggings and undies, and I measured her cervix. My eyes widened at what I found.

"James, get Lily's nightgown and then come into the other room with me and Anna."

I glanced at my T-Phone and found it was shortly after seven-thirty, which meant it was ten-thirty in New York. After James gave Lily her purple nightgown, the three of us walked into the baby's room.

"JAAAAAMES!!" Lily screamed from the other room.

"I should go to her."

"Go," I told him. "Then come right back."

Anna and I waited a minute before James returned. I felt so worried about Lily in her condition.

"What's going on, Donnie?" James asked.

"Lily is nine centimeters dilated and one hundred percent effaced."

"NINE?!" James and Anna exclaimed.

"We had scheduled a C-section for Monday, and normally, I'd start getting ready for it. But she's too close to delivering!"

"So what do we do, then?" Anna asked.

I let out a long sigh.

"We have to have Lily try to birth her baby naturally, and that scares me. I'm her father! What if I lose her?"

"You won't lose her, Donnie!" Anna yelled. "I'll stay by your side so that you're not alone."

"And I'll be with Lily," James chimed in.

"Then, James, there's something you should know," I explained. "When Lily went over her birth plan with me, she desired you cutting your baby's umbilical cord. I'll get it started and then I'll guide you."

"Okay."

I let out another sigh.

"Well, let's go."

JUSTINE'S POV

Ryan, Isamu, and I immediately took the portal to Lily's house after I got off work. To my surprise, the entire clan was present in the living room.

"Wow!" I exclaimed. "Talk about a party, and Isamu's birthday was not that long ago!"

"Well, now Isamu's getting another birthday gift," Leo replied with a smile. "A baby cousin."

"How's Lily doing?" Ryan asked.

"AAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUGH!"

We all glanced up the staircase where Lily's screams came from.

"Does that answer your question?" Raphael asked.

"She must be really close," I replied. "Let's pray for her."

"And let's meditate," Leo chimed in.

We all closed our eyes, and we prayed and meditated.

LILIANNA'S POV

Another half-hour had passed since we came home. After my father revealed that I was very close to attempt to give birth naturally, all of us prepared for the birth. In between contractions, I had gotten up and changed out of my dress and put on my purple transparent nightgown. My contractions were so strong that I almost fell to the ground on all fours, but James was there to catch me. Then James helped me back on the bed. I pulled my knees up towards me and separated my legs, fully aware of what was going to happen. James stayed by my side and held my right hand while Anna stayed with my father. I could tell my father was scared, and I silently thanked Anna for being there with him. In the background was a theme played with violins that felt so soothing and full of hope.

I groaned loudly when I felt another contraction, but this one felt different. I felt intense pressure down in my pelvis, and then I felt my body pushing. I took a deep breath and I bore down with all my might.

"Oh, Lily!" Dad exclaimed, quickly checking my cervix. "Okay, you're good!"

I took a deep breath and pushed again.

"Keep pushing," Dad encouraged me. "Push, push, push!"

I continued pushing until I couldn't. I took one more breath and I pushed again. To my surprise, I didn't feel much pain as I pushed. I slowly felt the baby descending into the birth canal.

But my contraction ended, as did my pushing.

"Good job, Lily," Anna encouraged me.

"Keep on pushing just like that when the next contraction comes," Dad told me.

I spent the next couple minutes catching my breath.

"You're doing amazing, Lily," James encouraged me.

I felt another contraction. I moaned, and I pushed. It was a repeat of my last contraction, and then I rested and caught my breath. I heard all kinds of encouragement from my father, my husband, and my best friend.

And then, the next contraction came. I took a deep breath, pushed, and then rested. I repeated the process, but this time, my push ended in a moan.

"The head's coming out!" Dad said excitedly. "Keep pushing, Lily Mae!"

I pushed again, moaning along the way, and then the contraction was over.

"James, I'm so tired," I said breathlessly.

It was the truth. I had labored since seven o'clock this morning, not knowing at the time I was actually in labor. It was now shortly after eight o'clock in the evening.

"You're doing great, Lily," James encouraged me. "Dad said the head's coming. You're almost there!"

"You can do it, Lily!" Anna encouraged me. "You are so brave!"

I groaned. Another contraction had come. At this point, I had felt the baby coming out and I was starting to really hurt. I took a deep breath and pushed, trying hard not to strain myself.

"Good!" Dad exclaimed. "Good, good, good! Keep going, Lily Mae!"

I took another deep breath, and I pushed. This time...

"AAAAAUUUUUUGH! I'M BURNING!"

"Stop pushing, Lily!" Dad yelled. "The head's crowning! Anna, I'm gonna need your help."

I laid back on the bed momentarily while I was still contracting. I felt a very strong urge to push and tried to breathe it out instead. But this was the most painful thing I had ever gone through in my life. I groaned at the pain as I felt my body try to push my baby out.

I then felt myself trembling as the contraction ended. I started to cry.

"James, I can't do this anymore!" I cried. "I can't do it!"

"Yes, you can, Lily!" James replied with a smile. "You're still doing it right now."

"I'm so scared!" I cried. "What if our baby doesn't make it? What if I don't make it?"

"You will make it!" James sternly replied. "God's gonna have to fight me to take you away from me!"

"That makes two of us!" Dad chimed in. "Lilianna Mae Hamato, I made a promise to do everything I can to deliver your child safely into this world and to make sure you survive. You can do this! Now don't push on this next contraction coming up!"

Just then, another contraction started and I screamed.

"Breathe, Lily!" James yelled. "Breathe!"

"The umbilical cord!" I screamed.

"Anna!" Dad yelled.

"Lily, the baby's doing fine!" Anna yelled with assurance. "The cord isn't wrapped around the baby's head. Just keep breathing!"

It was hard, but I breathed out with every ounce in me to prevent myself from pushing. All too soon, the contraction ended, and I was still shaking in the legs.

"How is he?" I asked.

"He's crowned," Dad answered. "How are you doing?"

"I can't do this anymore," I replied shakily.

"Lily, I know you didn't want a mirror, but please give me your hand."

I held out my left hand, and my dad took it. Words could not describe how I felt at what happened next. My dad had brought my hand... to my baby. I was touching my son's head. I suddenly felt a new hope rising in me as I started to laugh. I looked up to see my dad smiling at me.

"You can do it, Lily Mae. Even your own child believes you can do it. And I'm not even a psychic."

My dad was right. I attempted to read my baby's thoughts with my hand touching his head and one thought broke through: I'm ready to meet you, Mama.

And then another contraction started. I let out a scream, pulling my hand back so I could focus. I felt the urge to push again, and I pushed.

"Anna, grab the head!" Dad yelled.

I let out a few breaths before I started pushing again.

"It's out!" Anna yelled.

"Perfect!" Dad replied. "Keep pushing, Lily Mae!"

I pushed one more time before my contraction ended. But this time, I felt confident that I could do it.

"You're almost there, Lily," James encouraged me. "Just one more contraction to push through."

"He's right!" Dad replied. "You got this, Lily!"

I got my breath back before my next contraction started. I pushed with all my might.

"That's one shoulder!" Dad announced. "Come on!"

I pushed again.

"There's the other, and I see the shell coming out! Just one more push, Lily Mae!"

I let out some more breaths, took a deep breath, and pushed. I let out a yell, as did Anna. I was unsure who was louder as I finally felt my baby being born despite the shell.

"Anna?" Dad asked, looking to his right. "Oh my gosh, Anna!"

"What happened?" I asked, still catching my breath.

"Lily, here!"

My father suddenly handed my baby to me with the umbilical cord still attached. I could not help but smile and laugh. I successfully gave birth naturally and my baby was in my arms at last! And he was absolutely beautiful.

"James, help me!" Dad yelled.

"Oh, right!" James exclaimed. "The cord."

"That can wait! Help me put Anna in the spare bedroom!"

"What happened?" I asked in alarm.

"She fainted!"