Sammy swung open the door and looked up. He was carrying his rifle again, and that scared the daylight out of Darien standing there!
"Hey, Sammy! I'm here to pick up your sister," he greeted. I hope that's not a real rifle, he thought. But then again, I wouldn't be surprised if it were!
"Are you the the one who hurt my sister? 'Cuz I'm standing guard on here now to watch for the guy, and if you're the one--" Sammy loaded his rifle "--you're gonna get hurt with more pain than any ass who's gonna kick you!"
Darien gasped. "I assure you, I'm not. I would never hurt your sister, nor would I let anyone hurt her. And by the way, is that thing real?"
Sammy lowered the toy. "No," he answered sheepishly. "But it can shoot very sharp darts! Sorry, but I'm still really mad at the guy who hurt Serena. I'll go get her." He almost took off, but he came back. "Would you like to come in?" Darien nodded and walked cautiously through the door. He went to the living room and sat down.
Meanwhile, Sammy went to Serena's room. "Hey sis', your date's here. Ya' ready? Or do I still have to drag you around?"
Serena walked away from the full-length mirror and to her brother. She was wearing a small T-shirt with a casual, pink strappy dress over it, coming down to her knees. "OK, I'm ready." She slipped into some dainty shoes with no heels. "Can you help me walk down the stairs. Sammy nodded, and did.
When she got to the living room, Darien saw her and gasped. Can this beautiful angel be the same old Meatball Head? Wow... he thought, and stood up.
"Hey, Serena! Whoa, you look stunning! We're not going to the prom though!" he commended.
"I know, but I like wearing to the park," she smiled. "Besides, it's not THAT fancy."
Serena's mom came in. "Hi dear, where are you and Darien off to?"
"We're just going to the park," her daughter answered.
"Okay, but don't be out too late," Mrs. Tsukino replied.
"We won't. We'll be back by about nine," answered Serena. She and Darien looped arms and waltzed out the door.
***
After two hours of looming around the park; laughing, telling jokes and about each other, Serena and Darien were both exhausted, but had tons of fun. They looped arms and/or held each other's hands, having the times of their lives and never letting go. They both knew each other a lot more, and even started to have more FEELINGS towards each other.
"I've never had that much fun in a long time!" giggled Serena. "Thanks for bringing me out, Darien. I had a great time." She leaned closer to him, hands around his waist.
"Me too, 'Meatball Head'," joked Darien. "I haven't had this much fun for as long as I could remember! You can really make a person smile." He leaned closer to her, arms on top of Serena's shoulders.
Both of them looked into each other's eyes as their faces moved closer. Finally, it clicked; their lips locked onto each others, closed their eyes, and their shared a long, passionate kiss.
Ummmmmmm, sighed Serena inwardly, this feels SO good. Who would've thought Darien is such a great kisser? Wait, I'm KISSING him? Oh well, I DO trust him a lot more, and he's been such a great person to be with.
Darien thought; wow, it's amazing! I'm KISSING her, just what I've always wanted to do! Hmmm, her kiss tastes like chocolate almost! And--this feels just like heaven! I--I love you Serena Tsukino. You make me feel so loved. Please don't let this moment end...
Unfortunately, it did. Their instincts vibrated on, and they pulled apart. Their arms were still around each other.
Serena was the first to react. "Wow..that was good..."
He nodded. "Yeah, same for me..."
There was a small silence.
"Thanks for everything, Darien," she thanked.
"Anytime, Meatball Head," he smiled. "Anywhere else you want to go? Like to rest or something?"
Serena energetically nodded. "Sure! How about the arcade? We can say hi to Andrew, and have a little rest!"
Darien nodded in agreement, and they were both off, linking to each other's arms AGAIN.
When they got there, Andrew was no where to be found. Both of them glanced around, but they couldn't find him anywhere.
"Huh, that's funny," remarked Darien. "I thought Andrew worked this shift."
"Me too," agreed Serry.
Suddenly, a familiar voice boomed from behind them, causing the couple to shriek in surprise. "Hey you two love birds! Glad to see you guys out on a date together! How are you both doing!"
Serena and Darien turned around and found themselves face to face with Andrew.
"So, you two are finally going out with each other huh? See, I knew you two would be a perfect match for each other!" Andrew continued.
Serena spoke up. "We're just out on a date, but you were right. We did finally go out!"
"Yeah, so don't rub it in!" teased Darien. "You don't want to make the lady mad!"
Andrew grinned. "Do you want anything to drink or eat? It's on the house!"
"Sure!" both of the daters answered. They went to a nearby table and sat. After eating and resting, they both got up and started to leave.
"It's around 8 p.m.," pointed out Darien. "Maybe I should bring you home. I don't want your family outraged at us."
"All right!" exclaimed Serena. She beamed cheerfully and waved to Andrew.
When they were both right outside (hand in hand with each other AGAIN), Serena smiled up at Darien and rubbed her womb. It was surely starting to show.
All of a sudden, a cold, haunting voice boom from Serena and Darien behind, making her stop and grow white as a sheet. She squeezed Darien's hand so suddenly, that he almost jumped.
"Hey ya' pretty chick," started off the voice. "So how's your baby coming? When it's born, I want to see it's face. Thanks for doing all the hard work for me! You do know, that your beautiful face of yours can really make a guy 'love' you! Remember me?"
Serena and Darien turned around, but all they could see was darkness shaped in human form. "Darien, please, take me home.." pleaded Serena, her voice all dry.
"Oh, no, she's going nowhere!" raged the voice. The male lurched forward, exposing himself to the light of the arcade and street lights. Serena screamed.
"Darien, please, take me home! That's the guy who--" she pointed.
"Who what?" asked Darien, puzzled. Then, it finally came to him. He shoved the guy away and yelled, "Buzz off creep! Get away from her! Serena, come on! Let's go!" They started to edge off, and Darien would not let go of Serena's hand, nor let her out of his sight. But the man just jumped in front of Serena and blocked them.
"Hey where are you going, baby? I want to love you again just as I did before," the guy explained. He moved towards her, but Darien blocked him. His fists went up, and punched the rapist three times on his head. The rapist fell backward, injured. Darien didn't stop beating him up. He was still furious with this guy, and to him, he would never forgive this jerk.
Punch! "That's for what you get for messing with one of my best friends!" cried Darien. Punch! "That's for causing her all this grief and pain!" Kick below the belt; "That's for invading her will and privacy!"
"Darien! Stop! Please, just let the police handle this! I don't want anymore trouble! Please, do this for ME!" cried Serena, tears dropping onto the ground like beads. Darien immediately stopped and looked up at her, then stood by her side.
"I'm sorry, Serena," Darien apologized. "You're right; let's let the police handle this. Come on." He started to lead Serena to a phone, but their was a loud thud and smack very near Serena. She felt Darien's hand grip hers harder, then loosen up. She gasped in horror; Darien was punched in the back, and he fell to the ground, moaning in pain.
"DARIEN!" she cried. She rushed over to his side. "Are you OK?" Darien on the ground just squealed, "Yeah..." He tried getting up.
"Now that your boyfriend's down, you're all for me to do with!" cried the jerk. He advanced forward, with Serena scooting back and protecting her date.
"I don't think so, you jacked-up bastard!" roared a female voice. She had a familiar tied-up pony-tail and looked like she wasn't wearing anything at all, judging by the dark jungle green exercise suit she was wearing. She swung her most powerful karate kick at the jerk (the Twister Swing Kick), and he landed on the floor in an instant. She stepped into the light. "So stay away from my friends! You got that, you son-of-a-bitch!?!"
"Lita!" cried Serena happily. Darien on the ground was happy to see her surprisingly, and was amazed. Whoa, she took on that guy like nothing at all! he thought.
"Another pretty girl?" asked the ass, barely even moving. He struggled and stood up. "Another one to let me have fun with."
Wham! On the face! "Don't even think about it pal!" cried Lita. She grabbed that guy's neck and shoved him to the wall, leaving him petrified. "You mess with anyone that I know again, you're gonna be nothing but stinkin' dust from a rotten sardine can! GOT THAT!"
"Hey, listen you crazed chic--" started off the moron.
SLAM! went a punch to his stomach, as the jerk sway down. "GOT THAT!!!?!!!" interrogated Lita. The jerk nodded, but he was still trying to struggle free. Lita grasped the man's hands together and pinned him with her knee, as she did with Darien.
Speaking of Darien, he and Serena were watching the whole time at Lita while she was dealing with the jerk. They were both impressed by her moves and her quick course of action.
"If he starts to mess with anyone again, my anti-evil scrolls should butt the crap out of him!" cried Raye, who was just running up.
"And, I can take him on with my Sailor V moves!" proclaimed Mina, coming with Raye.
"He's going to have a lasting headache after I put him in my watery and analytical grave!" cried Amy, next to Raye.
Raye pulled out her one of her charms and stood next to Lita. "And to make sure he doesn't get away, let see how much he's going to like it when my charms burn him from within! Since he's a pure evil spirit, this should burn as fast as paper!" The rapist was terrified and didn't move. Raye nodded at Serena, and she and Darien dashed off to the arcade to call the police.
"ANDREW!" cried Serena. He dashed over like mad, calling "What's wrong!"
"We've been attacked by th--the--guy who raped me! Please, call the police!" pleaded Serena. Andrew obediently nodded, ripped the phone into his hands and called for help.
In moments, the police were at the scene of the crime, and they arrested the rapist. They asked Serena questions like if this was surely the guy, and she answered eagerly with confidence. The police congratulated her, and after a few more moments the police drove away. Lita and Serena's friends were still pretty angry at the rapist, but they calmed down and cheered her for capturing the guy.
"What a night!" cried the Scout girls and Darien at the same time. They all went their separate ways and went home.
***
At Serena's 7 3/4 month of pregnancy...
"Ow!" cried Serena. She clutched her abdomen.
"Are you all right?" asked Darien.
"Yeah, the baby just kicked again," she answered, rubbing her womb. "Man, my ankles are so swollen! They're larger than apples!"
"No, that's just the normal part of pregnancy," Dar' answered.
They were both at Serena's house studying a bit and visiting each other, with the other girls. No more Negaverse monsters were released into Tokyo, not even any sign of them. Everyone was getting worried if a huge attack would happen after the absences of the smaller ones. Oh, and by the way, "Serena" and "Darien" are getting closer and closer...you could say that they're in the basic kissing stage!
"Darien! Girls! Do you want to feel the baby? It's kicking and moving again!" squealed the mother-to-be with excitement.
Her friends took turns and were really excite that they could feel the baby. Amy took out her Mercury computer and scanned her friend. "She and her baby seems to be OK," she replied. "I'm just checking just in case there's any problems."
Serena held out her hands. "Someone please help me stand up," she requested. "I need to go to the bathroom again. And I need something to eat again."
Everyone offered a helping hand, but the phone rang. Mina went over and answered it. "Hello?" She handed the phone to Serena. "I think it's from your prenatal care center. They said something about, making an appointment?" She had a puzzled look on her face.
Serena grabbed the phone and responded, "Hello?"
"Hello, Serena Tsukino? This is from the East Tokyo Hospital Prenatal Care center," answered a sweet sounding nurse. "I was calling to see if you'd like to make an appointment to do your ultrasonography and amniocentesis routine. Do you want to schedule an appointment?"
"Sure," Serena answered. "What date is available?"
"Well, how about two weeks from now, on May 7th?" asked the nurse.
"Hold on," Serena covered the receiver. "Are any of you available on May 7th to accompany me to ultrasound? And this ammoo--amniocentic--"
"Amniocentesis," answered Amy and Darien.
"Yeah, that's it. Can any of you come with me?" Serena questioned.
"I can come," volunteered Darien. "And Amy, right Aimes'?"
"Sure," answered Amy.
"Sorry, we can't come," remarked Lita. "We have some important errands that day to do."
"Oh that's all right. I just need one or two of you to come," Serry explained. She went back to the phone. "Ma'am? Yes, that date is fine with me. What? Oh, I think I know the routine. Okay, May 7th at 4 p.m.? Okay, thanks...bye." And she hung up.
"It's all set," replied Serena. "I'll finally find out if my baby's a girl or not!"
***
Sailormoon stood in front of the monster with the Crescent Moon Wand in her hand. She aimed it at the monster.
"Man, I can't keep this up forever! Hold still, you Negacrap!" Sailormoon demanded. Finally it did, so she as quickly and safely as possible cried, "Moon, healing, activation!" The monster was changed back into a human being, but a small decimal of the light hit Sailormoon in her womb where the baby is.
"Sailormoon!" cried the Scouts and Tuxedo Mask. Mercury automatically started a scan test on Sailormoon, but she only said, "There's nothing wrong with Sailormoon or the baby. But, this might change the baby into someone she wants though."
Sailormoon grew horrified. She grabbed Mercury's collar and panicked, "What! What! Tell me!"
"Don't worry Serena, it's a good thing," replied Mercury. "This light and energy of the wand is totally under your control, so this light might change your baby into the baby you really desire! Then again, it may not, but it most likely will change the tyke to someone you'd wish mostly for."
"You mean that this could definitely be a girl and everything I want it to be?" cried Sailormoon, exhilarated.
"Not intelligence or things that come by how the infant grows into," explained Sailormercury. "Only things like hair color, eye color; looks, basically (insert author's evil laugh)."
"Cool!" cried everyone.
"We'll have to see at the ultrasound next week and at the time of birth to be sure," replied Sailormercury.
***
Amy and Darien stood next to Serena in the hospital room. He held Serena's hand firmly and watched her.
Gulp, gulp, gulp, gulp. "There goes cup number 3!" panted Serena. "I don't know how much more water can I take! Man, I already want to go the bathroom! BAD!!"
Nurse Judy smiled. "Relax Serena, this is all part of the routine. Judging by your health, only 5 more cups to go! I know it's a lot, and you can't hold your urine much longer, but this is the way of all ultrasonographies. Keep doing your best! I'll be back in about 10 minutes; I have to file some papers for you and get some things for this routine, OK? I'll be back." She left the room quietly.
Amy looked down at your friend. "Are you doing OK now?"
"No, because I REALLY need to 'GO'! But basically, everything's fine," Serena responded. "I don't know if I could get through this routine."
Darien bent down besides her. "Don't worry about it," he comforted. "Amy and I are right here next to you, and I won't let go of your hand. Remember the little blanket Andrew gave you?"
She nodded.
"Remember the message on it? It said, 'I'll always be here for you, and in the name of the moon, you will be free again.' That message applies to me, too," he replied. "When you need hope and help the most, keep saying that to yourself. You're doing this 'in the name of the moon'."
Serena smiled her best. After each ten minute segment, she drank another cup of water. By that time, the nurse came back long ago, and pretty soon, everyone was ready to perform the ultrasound.
First, Judy took out some specialized cream and lifted up Serena's 'over-sized' shirt. "Big tummy, huh?" she asked Serena, smiling. With the cream, she rubbed it on gently and spread it around.
"Ooooh!" jiggled Serena, not moving. "It's COLD!"
"All part of the process!" chirped the nurse. After several things to do, Judy linked on the ultrasonograph monitor, and the baby slowly came into view. Serena squealed in excitement.
"Wow! That's what my child looks like! It looks so CUTE! Nurse Judy, will this be able to tell what sex my baby is?"
"Yep! Usually so, but yes, you can see! If I switch the position of the picture..." she exclaimed, happily. "Let's home-in closer. Ahh...yes! Congratulations, I think you'll enjoy this; it's a GIRL!"
"YAY!!!" cried Serena. Amy and Darien high-fived each other in happiness.
"Wow, she's just what you wanted Serena! A baby girl!" Darien cried.
"Ooh, look how she's moving!" pointed Serena. "It's--it's holding and playing with the umbilical cord?"
Everyone laughed. "That's the way it normally is," remarked Amy.
"And your baby is perfect healthy, judging by the tests so far," said Judy.
After a several more minutes of staring and commenting the baby, Judy patted Serena's hand. "OK Serena, I can give you the pictures of the baby later, but we have to move on. I know you're not going to like this, but we have to go through the amniocentesis part. Now to make you more calm, I'm going to tell you what's going to happen. I'm going to feel around your womb for a tender spot. Then, I'm going to take a needle into that place, having no harm to the baby, and stick into that place and draw out some of the fluid in the placenta. The fluid then will be tested to see what your baby may look like, what problems it may have and other things, OK? Don't be afraid. It's going to hurt a bit, but don't worry. I'll make sure to be VERY careful."
Hearing all of this, Serena was scared, but she tried to trust the nurse. She clenched Darien's hand tighter, making him uneasy.
"Serena, don't worry. I'm right here besides you. Amy is here, and the nurse most importantly. After all of this, we can take you home and you can do anything you want, OK? Remember the message on the little blanket; remember it," assured Darien.
Serry nodded, and the procedure began. When the needle was inserted, Serena was sweating and clasped Darien's hand harder. Amy looked worried, but did not make a single move.
Serena was growing impatient. "Well, aren't you going to do it yet?"
Judy took out the needle and placed the liquid in a testing capsule. "I'm done," was all she replied, smiling.
Serena let out her breath and loosened her hand. "You're kidding; that was it?"
"Yep," answered Judy. "We'll have the results back to you in a week or so."
Serena was major relieved. After a struggle getting up, her friends and she went back to her house (after going to the bathroom!), where everyone kept discussing about the day's events.
***
Lying on her moon and bunny bed, Serena felt a jab of pain in her lower abdomen. The pain was like nothing she had ever felt before. Unhesitant, she picked up the phone and speed-dialed Darien's cellular number. After only half a ring, Darien was on the line.
"Hello? Serena? Is that you?" he asked, panting.
Serena clenched her teeth and fought the pain, then released herself. "Darien, can you please come to my house right now? I just had the worst pain in my entire life in my womb, and I think I'm going into labor. I'm also due today June 30th at noon, but it's only 8 a.m. This was my first contraction, and none of my family is home."
Darien's face turned white as a ghost. "Ohmigod. Serena, HOLD STILL until I get there, OK? I'm coming right now! I'm only two blocks away from your house."
"Please, hurry! This really hurts!" cried Serena. She hung up and started her breathing exercises, just as she's been taught by Amy and Lita. Please hurry, pleaded Serena, inwardly. She started to sweat.
Only ten seconds later, Darien arrived, not at the front door with a key, but through Serena's window as Tuxedo Mask. He de-transformed and scooped up Serena in a safe flash. She grabbed her hospital bag full of things, and they were downstairs pretty soon, with the help of Tuxedo Mask again. When they got into the car, Serena sat in the front seat, and Darien drove off, 70 miles an hour. On his cell phone, he called up the Scouts and told them to meet them there.
At the arrival of the emergency room, Serena was helped right away. Her contractions calmed when she arrived, and she was changed and propped up comfortably, then given a number of antibiotics and pain-killers. Darien had to change into another outfit but he did it in a flash and was by his girlfriend's side in no time (yes, they're considered an actual couple now).
In her room, Serena was sweating again. She looked up at Darien and replied, "Is everything going to be OK? Am I doing fine?"
He patted her head. "Everything's going great, Serena. Don't worry, the doctors know what they're doing. And always remember, I won't leave you throughout this whole thing. I am going to be right here whenever you need anything. The Scouts just arrived and they're in the waiting room, dressed in this hospital outfit just like I am. And after this whole thing, we're going to have a surprise for you."
"A surprise? Really? what is it?" Serena asked, eager and happy.
"Shh, you'll see," answered Darien, grinning. Suddenly he gasped, along with Serena. She squeeze his hand her hardest, leaving her boyfriend trying not to scream in pain. Finally, she let go, gasping. "Wow, that was a big one," she replied.
"Ow," complained Darien.
Serena stared into his eyes and released his hand. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to squeeze so hard, but that really hurt."
"It's all right," he remarked. "I need to practice my resistance to pain anyways." He shook his hand around.
Following the several more close contractions, the real action began. Dr. Koto was in the room with her assistant nurses, and everything was ready.
"I'm scared, Darien," Serena whimpered. "Is there anything that's going to go wrong?"
"No, nothing's going to go wrong," certified Darien. "And keep concentrating on happiness, OK? Nothing's going to go wrong." Both of their hands locked together.
Dr. Koto got her gloves and mask on and smiled at the both of them.
"All right, Serena, we're going to do this together, OK? I'm going to help you out with all my power, and I tell you everything that's going on," assured the kind doctor. "Your baby's head is starting to crown..."
"AHH! OWW!" cried Serena. She restrained herself from her childish self, and started to put back on her grown up attitude. She squeezed Darien's hand hard, and that started to send chills down his back. "I don't know if I can do this! I don't know if I can! It's hurts!"
"Serena! Don't worry!" panicked Darien. He calmed down. "Remember what Andrew's little blanket gift said? 'Be strong, and never give up.' Mostly importantly, remember this part, your favorite part; '...in the name of the moon, you will be free again.' Keep saying that, keep believing it!" He whispered in her ear, "Pretend you're Sailormoon and fight the pain!"
"You're right," panted Serena. "In the--name of the moon, you will be free again..."
Dr. Koto smiled. "There you go Serena, keep believing that. All right, the head is completely born, and now for the body. It's showing, and now I need you to give a large push, OK? This is will be it, and your baby will be born. Ready?"
Serena looked at Darien and nodded, readying her hand. "Ready," Serena answered, confident. She pushed and squeezed, pretending this was the final duel with the Negaverse. Clenching her teeth, she pushed harder and harder. After what seems to be hours of pushing, it was all over. The newborn started to cry, and what a shrill cry it was! It sounded like Serena when she was just born, and she looked exactly like her too! The nurses and Darien cheered for joy as the newborn laid in Dr. Koto's arms. Serena let go and lay back, smiling her biggest. "It's all over! Thanks everyone!" she whispered. She grabbed Darien and kissed him long. "Thank you Darien."
"Anytime," he answered, smiling. "I'm proud of you. And congratulations! You're finally a mother!" He leaned down and kissed her on head cheek.
Dr. Koto cut the umbilical cord and handed the baby over to the nurse, who washed the baby girl. She was then dried and wrapped clean into a new sterile towel, then handed into Serena's arms. She looked down at her new daughter and smiled, blinking tears. Her daughter had a little pink fuzz for hair, her eyes were as red as rich strawberries. (insert author's evil laugh) The baby looked into Serena's eyes and gurgled.
"Congratulations, it's a healthy baby girl!" cried the Doctor.
Darien asked, "What are you going to name your new daughter?"
Serena looked up with a confused look on her face. Her daughter started to feed by her mom's breast feeding. "I haven't thought much about it," Serena answered. "I don't know, what would you name her?"
Darien shrugged. "She looks a lot like you. Maybe something in your name range is good."
She started to think, and then it came to her. "I know! Since she looks so much like me, why don't we name her...Rini (Insert last author's evil laugh)! It's a shorter and more 'junior-like' version of my name, since she looks so much like me."
"A great choice," commended Darien. "See, I told you she'll look just as beautiful as you. (leaned down and whispered in Serena's ear) Do you think the light that hit you by the Crescent Moon Wand was worth it?"
Serena nodded. "Yep! She's the baby that I've always wanted. (talking to the baby in an angel-like voice, like her future self Neo-Queen Serenity) You're such a beautiful girl! Mommy would be the best mommy ever to you! I love you so much Rini, you know that right? (Rini burped) Mommy's going to teach you all kinds of things, and her friends are helping too!"
Darien stood straight and requested, "Honey, you want me to get the girls now? They'll be anxious to see you and Rini."
"Sure," smiled Serena. Darien nodded and left the room in a flash. Serena on the hand was having a nice little conversation with Rini.
Darien outside found the girls. They stood up in an instant and asked all their questions at once.
"Is Serena all right?"
"How's she and her baby?"
"What are her conditions?"
"Is her baby definitely a girl?"
Darien hollered, "No offense, but SHUT UP! I'll answer your questions one by one. Serena and her daughter are completely fine, and the doctor got all good results. She definitely got the child she wanted; it's a girl and she looks exactly like her. Now, are there anymore questions? I can bring you guys in now."
The girls let out a huge sigh of relief.
"What's her daughter's name?" asked Mina, walking with the group to Serena's room.
Darien turned. "She named her Rini, because she looked so much like her. Hey, you girls know about the surprise routine, right? I'll give you girls the cue." He and the Scouts stepped into Serena's room quietly, but the girls were rushing to her side once they got in.
"Wow, congrads' Serena! On you and your daughter Rini!" exclaimed Lita.
"She's a beauty, and she's going to be just like her mother!" smirked Raye. The look in her eyes shows a great and true friend. No more fights! I can't and will never fight with my best friend again! she thought. (and they didn't fight ever again, as said!)
"You're all right, right?" asked Amy.
"Congratulations!" remarked Mina.
Serena smiled at her friends and answered them again with that same angelic voice. "Thank you all," she replied. "Thank you for helping me through this whole pregnancy. It meant a lot to me."
Her friends squealed in delight and enjoyed the moment; of being there and being aunts. Just then, Serena's family came in, and they hurried over. They took turns holding Rini and talking to Serena, and Serena's dad was a lot kinder to Darien now. He treated him like a slight part of his family!
Raye looked at Darien, and he nodded. She turned back to Serena and said, "We have a surprise for you Serena?"
"Really? You guys are so kind," complimented Serena. "What is it?"
The girls looked at Darien and cued each other. "Happy birthday, Serena and Rini!"
"What? Rini was just born today! What are you talking about?" asked Serena.
Lita laughed. "Think about the date; it's June 30, your birthday! Rini was your present! Well, it's not a traditional present, but..."
"Oh this is the greatest!" yelped Serena. "Well, this baby WAS from myself, so it was like a birthday present to myself. But it's the best present I'll ever get!"
"Yep! And you can cherish her as a forever present! Hopefully, you won't have too much trouble with her when you get home!" cried Raye.
"I doubt that," giggled Amy and Serena.
***
Two weeks later at home...
"Mina! Can you help me an extra towel? I have to change Rini's diaper and she's crying!" called out Serena, a bit weak.
"Sure thing!" yelled Mina.
"I'll go get the baby powder!" volunteered Amy, who was with Serena.
"Darien! Can you get Rini a new outfit! She peuked in this one, and I have to wash it!" desired Serena.
"Yeah," he answered quickly, as he went to get it.
After more running around and getting things ready, Rini was properly fed, burped and changed. Serena's friends have been over everyday so far to help her take care of Rini and herself. Her mom helped, but she had other jobs to do. They've been a great deal of help, and Serena got plenty of healthy rest. She never left her new daughter's side for too long, and she treated Rini with all the respect a person can give. Serena even tried to teach her things already!
All of her friends, especially Raye, were amazed how Serena changed from a childish crying kid into a very mature and loving mother. They were all proud of their friend and Sailorscout leader. Serena decided to not really give up her Sailormoon duty, since it was just getting to sink in. But for the time being, she entrusted the Crescent Moon Wand to Mina, because next to her, Mina had the most leadership and fighting experience of the Negaverse. The other Scouts were glad that Mina was chosen, instead of Raye or the others.
One day, when Rini was almost a month old, Darien was side side by side with Serena on her bed watching and taking care of Rini.
"I'm so proud of how you've changed, Meatball Head," he replied. "And you don't even mind that nickname anymore!"
Serena smiled and placed Renee on her lap. "This mother job can be really tiring, but it's worth it. I know you don't call me that name on purpose anymore. I've grown to like it, actually! I feel so great! My grades are the B- level, and I love this child with all my heart. And, I love you, too. You've been such a great boyfriend and helper to me. I--I don't know how to thank you! All you've done for me and Rini! How can you find so much time and effort to help us?"
"I don't mind it at all," Darien answered. "You two are the most important people in my life, and I have to protect you two. I do the same with the Scouts and with all my good friends. And you--you're the best thing that have ever happened to me. I love you too, and Renee. You sure are growing to a be a great mother. You're all so gentle and caring, like an angel! I admire you for that."
Serena blushed. "I love this child so much! I HAVE to give her the best benefits of life! She's going to very beautiful, and be even smarter than me! With the help of Amy, the Scouts, and you, she'll be the best daughter ever. (staring down at Rini) She already is, by the way. She cried a lot during the first week she was home, but now she hardly does anything too bad anymore! Her cheeks are so blushing-red and cute!"
"Just like her mother," replied Darien.
Serena moved closer to him. "And, I think the Crescent moon Wand helped too. When It hit me, I realized that I wanted some of your good characteristics to be her too, and she has your stubbornness and brightness. Well, and mine too, but more of yours."
Darien laughed. "Thanks, honey. You're amazingly such a good mother, probably the best mother ever! She's going to be the best girl ever."
Serena held up her finger. "Correction, she's going to be the best girl of OUR daughter. Since the Moon Wand had some of your characteristics in it, you can become Rini's 'father'."
"Are you sure you want me to hold that position? Why?" asked Darien. "Besides the 'inheritance'."
"You're certainly a very kind and wonderful person, 'Tuxedo Mask'," explained Serena, giggling. "I trust that you will be, with my heart."
"Thank you Sailormoon," he whispered. "Thank you... for EVERYTHING in all of I've known you for. And, she maybe the next Sailormoon after you, or just ANOTHER Sailormoon, but she'll be just as great as her mother."
The "family" sat close together and shared their moment. Serena and Darien shared a long romantic kiss. Darien from then on always acted to Rini as a real father, and the "family" lived on their lives (together, probably in several more years) happily ever after!
The End!!!
"Hey, Sammy! I'm here to pick up your sister," he greeted. I hope that's not a real rifle, he thought. But then again, I wouldn't be surprised if it were!
"Are you the the one who hurt my sister? 'Cuz I'm standing guard on here now to watch for the guy, and if you're the one--" Sammy loaded his rifle "--you're gonna get hurt with more pain than any ass who's gonna kick you!"
Darien gasped. "I assure you, I'm not. I would never hurt your sister, nor would I let anyone hurt her. And by the way, is that thing real?"
Sammy lowered the toy. "No," he answered sheepishly. "But it can shoot very sharp darts! Sorry, but I'm still really mad at the guy who hurt Serena. I'll go get her." He almost took off, but he came back. "Would you like to come in?" Darien nodded and walked cautiously through the door. He went to the living room and sat down.
Meanwhile, Sammy went to Serena's room. "Hey sis', your date's here. Ya' ready? Or do I still have to drag you around?"
Serena walked away from the full-length mirror and to her brother. She was wearing a small T-shirt with a casual, pink strappy dress over it, coming down to her knees. "OK, I'm ready." She slipped into some dainty shoes with no heels. "Can you help me walk down the stairs. Sammy nodded, and did.
When she got to the living room, Darien saw her and gasped. Can this beautiful angel be the same old Meatball Head? Wow... he thought, and stood up.
"Hey, Serena! Whoa, you look stunning! We're not going to the prom though!" he commended.
"I know, but I like wearing to the park," she smiled. "Besides, it's not THAT fancy."
Serena's mom came in. "Hi dear, where are you and Darien off to?"
"We're just going to the park," her daughter answered.
"Okay, but don't be out too late," Mrs. Tsukino replied.
"We won't. We'll be back by about nine," answered Serena. She and Darien looped arms and waltzed out the door.
***
After two hours of looming around the park; laughing, telling jokes and about each other, Serena and Darien were both exhausted, but had tons of fun. They looped arms and/or held each other's hands, having the times of their lives and never letting go. They both knew each other a lot more, and even started to have more FEELINGS towards each other.
"I've never had that much fun in a long time!" giggled Serena. "Thanks for bringing me out, Darien. I had a great time." She leaned closer to him, hands around his waist.
"Me too, 'Meatball Head'," joked Darien. "I haven't had this much fun for as long as I could remember! You can really make a person smile." He leaned closer to her, arms on top of Serena's shoulders.
Both of them looked into each other's eyes as their faces moved closer. Finally, it clicked; their lips locked onto each others, closed their eyes, and their shared a long, passionate kiss.
Ummmmmmm, sighed Serena inwardly, this feels SO good. Who would've thought Darien is such a great kisser? Wait, I'm KISSING him? Oh well, I DO trust him a lot more, and he's been such a great person to be with.
Darien thought; wow, it's amazing! I'm KISSING her, just what I've always wanted to do! Hmmm, her kiss tastes like chocolate almost! And--this feels just like heaven! I--I love you Serena Tsukino. You make me feel so loved. Please don't let this moment end...
Unfortunately, it did. Their instincts vibrated on, and they pulled apart. Their arms were still around each other.
Serena was the first to react. "Wow..that was good..."
He nodded. "Yeah, same for me..."
There was a small silence.
"Thanks for everything, Darien," she thanked.
"Anytime, Meatball Head," he smiled. "Anywhere else you want to go? Like to rest or something?"
Serena energetically nodded. "Sure! How about the arcade? We can say hi to Andrew, and have a little rest!"
Darien nodded in agreement, and they were both off, linking to each other's arms AGAIN.
When they got there, Andrew was no where to be found. Both of them glanced around, but they couldn't find him anywhere.
"Huh, that's funny," remarked Darien. "I thought Andrew worked this shift."
"Me too," agreed Serry.
Suddenly, a familiar voice boomed from behind them, causing the couple to shriek in surprise. "Hey you two love birds! Glad to see you guys out on a date together! How are you both doing!"
Serena and Darien turned around and found themselves face to face with Andrew.
"So, you two are finally going out with each other huh? See, I knew you two would be a perfect match for each other!" Andrew continued.
Serena spoke up. "We're just out on a date, but you were right. We did finally go out!"
"Yeah, so don't rub it in!" teased Darien. "You don't want to make the lady mad!"
Andrew grinned. "Do you want anything to drink or eat? It's on the house!"
"Sure!" both of the daters answered. They went to a nearby table and sat. After eating and resting, they both got up and started to leave.
"It's around 8 p.m.," pointed out Darien. "Maybe I should bring you home. I don't want your family outraged at us."
"All right!" exclaimed Serena. She beamed cheerfully and waved to Andrew.
When they were both right outside (hand in hand with each other AGAIN), Serena smiled up at Darien and rubbed her womb. It was surely starting to show.
All of a sudden, a cold, haunting voice boom from Serena and Darien behind, making her stop and grow white as a sheet. She squeezed Darien's hand so suddenly, that he almost jumped.
"Hey ya' pretty chick," started off the voice. "So how's your baby coming? When it's born, I want to see it's face. Thanks for doing all the hard work for me! You do know, that your beautiful face of yours can really make a guy 'love' you! Remember me?"
Serena and Darien turned around, but all they could see was darkness shaped in human form. "Darien, please, take me home.." pleaded Serena, her voice all dry.
"Oh, no, she's going nowhere!" raged the voice. The male lurched forward, exposing himself to the light of the arcade and street lights. Serena screamed.
"Darien, please, take me home! That's the guy who--" she pointed.
"Who what?" asked Darien, puzzled. Then, it finally came to him. He shoved the guy away and yelled, "Buzz off creep! Get away from her! Serena, come on! Let's go!" They started to edge off, and Darien would not let go of Serena's hand, nor let her out of his sight. But the man just jumped in front of Serena and blocked them.
"Hey where are you going, baby? I want to love you again just as I did before," the guy explained. He moved towards her, but Darien blocked him. His fists went up, and punched the rapist three times on his head. The rapist fell backward, injured. Darien didn't stop beating him up. He was still furious with this guy, and to him, he would never forgive this jerk.
Punch! "That's for what you get for messing with one of my best friends!" cried Darien. Punch! "That's for causing her all this grief and pain!" Kick below the belt; "That's for invading her will and privacy!"
"Darien! Stop! Please, just let the police handle this! I don't want anymore trouble! Please, do this for ME!" cried Serena, tears dropping onto the ground like beads. Darien immediately stopped and looked up at her, then stood by her side.
"I'm sorry, Serena," Darien apologized. "You're right; let's let the police handle this. Come on." He started to lead Serena to a phone, but their was a loud thud and smack very near Serena. She felt Darien's hand grip hers harder, then loosen up. She gasped in horror; Darien was punched in the back, and he fell to the ground, moaning in pain.
"DARIEN!" she cried. She rushed over to his side. "Are you OK?" Darien on the ground just squealed, "Yeah..." He tried getting up.
"Now that your boyfriend's down, you're all for me to do with!" cried the jerk. He advanced forward, with Serena scooting back and protecting her date.
"I don't think so, you jacked-up bastard!" roared a female voice. She had a familiar tied-up pony-tail and looked like she wasn't wearing anything at all, judging by the dark jungle green exercise suit she was wearing. She swung her most powerful karate kick at the jerk (the Twister Swing Kick), and he landed on the floor in an instant. She stepped into the light. "So stay away from my friends! You got that, you son-of-a-bitch!?!"
"Lita!" cried Serena happily. Darien on the ground was happy to see her surprisingly, and was amazed. Whoa, she took on that guy like nothing at all! he thought.
"Another pretty girl?" asked the ass, barely even moving. He struggled and stood up. "Another one to let me have fun with."
Wham! On the face! "Don't even think about it pal!" cried Lita. She grabbed that guy's neck and shoved him to the wall, leaving him petrified. "You mess with anyone that I know again, you're gonna be nothing but stinkin' dust from a rotten sardine can! GOT THAT!"
"Hey, listen you crazed chic--" started off the moron.
SLAM! went a punch to his stomach, as the jerk sway down. "GOT THAT!!!?!!!" interrogated Lita. The jerk nodded, but he was still trying to struggle free. Lita grasped the man's hands together and pinned him with her knee, as she did with Darien.
Speaking of Darien, he and Serena were watching the whole time at Lita while she was dealing with the jerk. They were both impressed by her moves and her quick course of action.
"If he starts to mess with anyone again, my anti-evil scrolls should butt the crap out of him!" cried Raye, who was just running up.
"And, I can take him on with my Sailor V moves!" proclaimed Mina, coming with Raye.
"He's going to have a lasting headache after I put him in my watery and analytical grave!" cried Amy, next to Raye.
Raye pulled out her one of her charms and stood next to Lita. "And to make sure he doesn't get away, let see how much he's going to like it when my charms burn him from within! Since he's a pure evil spirit, this should burn as fast as paper!" The rapist was terrified and didn't move. Raye nodded at Serena, and she and Darien dashed off to the arcade to call the police.
"ANDREW!" cried Serena. He dashed over like mad, calling "What's wrong!"
"We've been attacked by th--the--guy who raped me! Please, call the police!" pleaded Serena. Andrew obediently nodded, ripped the phone into his hands and called for help.
In moments, the police were at the scene of the crime, and they arrested the rapist. They asked Serena questions like if this was surely the guy, and she answered eagerly with confidence. The police congratulated her, and after a few more moments the police drove away. Lita and Serena's friends were still pretty angry at the rapist, but they calmed down and cheered her for capturing the guy.
"What a night!" cried the Scout girls and Darien at the same time. They all went their separate ways and went home.
***
At Serena's 7 3/4 month of pregnancy...
"Ow!" cried Serena. She clutched her abdomen.
"Are you all right?" asked Darien.
"Yeah, the baby just kicked again," she answered, rubbing her womb. "Man, my ankles are so swollen! They're larger than apples!"
"No, that's just the normal part of pregnancy," Dar' answered.
They were both at Serena's house studying a bit and visiting each other, with the other girls. No more Negaverse monsters were released into Tokyo, not even any sign of them. Everyone was getting worried if a huge attack would happen after the absences of the smaller ones. Oh, and by the way, "Serena" and "Darien" are getting closer and closer...you could say that they're in the basic kissing stage!
"Darien! Girls! Do you want to feel the baby? It's kicking and moving again!" squealed the mother-to-be with excitement.
Her friends took turns and were really excite that they could feel the baby. Amy took out her Mercury computer and scanned her friend. "She and her baby seems to be OK," she replied. "I'm just checking just in case there's any problems."
Serena held out her hands. "Someone please help me stand up," she requested. "I need to go to the bathroom again. And I need something to eat again."
Everyone offered a helping hand, but the phone rang. Mina went over and answered it. "Hello?" She handed the phone to Serena. "I think it's from your prenatal care center. They said something about, making an appointment?" She had a puzzled look on her face.
Serena grabbed the phone and responded, "Hello?"
"Hello, Serena Tsukino? This is from the East Tokyo Hospital Prenatal Care center," answered a sweet sounding nurse. "I was calling to see if you'd like to make an appointment to do your ultrasonography and amniocentesis routine. Do you want to schedule an appointment?"
"Sure," Serena answered. "What date is available?"
"Well, how about two weeks from now, on May 7th?" asked the nurse.
"Hold on," Serena covered the receiver. "Are any of you available on May 7th to accompany me to ultrasound? And this ammoo--amniocentic--"
"Amniocentesis," answered Amy and Darien.
"Yeah, that's it. Can any of you come with me?" Serena questioned.
"I can come," volunteered Darien. "And Amy, right Aimes'?"
"Sure," answered Amy.
"Sorry, we can't come," remarked Lita. "We have some important errands that day to do."
"Oh that's all right. I just need one or two of you to come," Serry explained. She went back to the phone. "Ma'am? Yes, that date is fine with me. What? Oh, I think I know the routine. Okay, May 7th at 4 p.m.? Okay, thanks...bye." And she hung up.
"It's all set," replied Serena. "I'll finally find out if my baby's a girl or not!"
***
Sailormoon stood in front of the monster with the Crescent Moon Wand in her hand. She aimed it at the monster.
"Man, I can't keep this up forever! Hold still, you Negacrap!" Sailormoon demanded. Finally it did, so she as quickly and safely as possible cried, "Moon, healing, activation!" The monster was changed back into a human being, but a small decimal of the light hit Sailormoon in her womb where the baby is.
"Sailormoon!" cried the Scouts and Tuxedo Mask. Mercury automatically started a scan test on Sailormoon, but she only said, "There's nothing wrong with Sailormoon or the baby. But, this might change the baby into someone she wants though."
Sailormoon grew horrified. She grabbed Mercury's collar and panicked, "What! What! Tell me!"
"Don't worry Serena, it's a good thing," replied Mercury. "This light and energy of the wand is totally under your control, so this light might change your baby into the baby you really desire! Then again, it may not, but it most likely will change the tyke to someone you'd wish mostly for."
"You mean that this could definitely be a girl and everything I want it to be?" cried Sailormoon, exhilarated.
"Not intelligence or things that come by how the infant grows into," explained Sailormercury. "Only things like hair color, eye color; looks, basically (insert author's evil laugh)."
"Cool!" cried everyone.
"We'll have to see at the ultrasound next week and at the time of birth to be sure," replied Sailormercury.
***
Amy and Darien stood next to Serena in the hospital room. He held Serena's hand firmly and watched her.
Gulp, gulp, gulp, gulp. "There goes cup number 3!" panted Serena. "I don't know how much more water can I take! Man, I already want to go the bathroom! BAD!!"
Nurse Judy smiled. "Relax Serena, this is all part of the routine. Judging by your health, only 5 more cups to go! I know it's a lot, and you can't hold your urine much longer, but this is the way of all ultrasonographies. Keep doing your best! I'll be back in about 10 minutes; I have to file some papers for you and get some things for this routine, OK? I'll be back." She left the room quietly.
Amy looked down at your friend. "Are you doing OK now?"
"No, because I REALLY need to 'GO'! But basically, everything's fine," Serena responded. "I don't know if I could get through this routine."
Darien bent down besides her. "Don't worry about it," he comforted. "Amy and I are right here next to you, and I won't let go of your hand. Remember the little blanket Andrew gave you?"
She nodded.
"Remember the message on it? It said, 'I'll always be here for you, and in the name of the moon, you will be free again.' That message applies to me, too," he replied. "When you need hope and help the most, keep saying that to yourself. You're doing this 'in the name of the moon'."
Serena smiled her best. After each ten minute segment, she drank another cup of water. By that time, the nurse came back long ago, and pretty soon, everyone was ready to perform the ultrasound.
First, Judy took out some specialized cream and lifted up Serena's 'over-sized' shirt. "Big tummy, huh?" she asked Serena, smiling. With the cream, she rubbed it on gently and spread it around.
"Ooooh!" jiggled Serena, not moving. "It's COLD!"
"All part of the process!" chirped the nurse. After several things to do, Judy linked on the ultrasonograph monitor, and the baby slowly came into view. Serena squealed in excitement.
"Wow! That's what my child looks like! It looks so CUTE! Nurse Judy, will this be able to tell what sex my baby is?"
"Yep! Usually so, but yes, you can see! If I switch the position of the picture..." she exclaimed, happily. "Let's home-in closer. Ahh...yes! Congratulations, I think you'll enjoy this; it's a GIRL!"
"YAY!!!" cried Serena. Amy and Darien high-fived each other in happiness.
"Wow, she's just what you wanted Serena! A baby girl!" Darien cried.
"Ooh, look how she's moving!" pointed Serena. "It's--it's holding and playing with the umbilical cord?"
Everyone laughed. "That's the way it normally is," remarked Amy.
"And your baby is perfect healthy, judging by the tests so far," said Judy.
After a several more minutes of staring and commenting the baby, Judy patted Serena's hand. "OK Serena, I can give you the pictures of the baby later, but we have to move on. I know you're not going to like this, but we have to go through the amniocentesis part. Now to make you more calm, I'm going to tell you what's going to happen. I'm going to feel around your womb for a tender spot. Then, I'm going to take a needle into that place, having no harm to the baby, and stick into that place and draw out some of the fluid in the placenta. The fluid then will be tested to see what your baby may look like, what problems it may have and other things, OK? Don't be afraid. It's going to hurt a bit, but don't worry. I'll make sure to be VERY careful."
Hearing all of this, Serena was scared, but she tried to trust the nurse. She clenched Darien's hand tighter, making him uneasy.
"Serena, don't worry. I'm right here besides you. Amy is here, and the nurse most importantly. After all of this, we can take you home and you can do anything you want, OK? Remember the message on the little blanket; remember it," assured Darien.
Serry nodded, and the procedure began. When the needle was inserted, Serena was sweating and clasped Darien's hand harder. Amy looked worried, but did not make a single move.
Serena was growing impatient. "Well, aren't you going to do it yet?"
Judy took out the needle and placed the liquid in a testing capsule. "I'm done," was all she replied, smiling.
Serena let out her breath and loosened her hand. "You're kidding; that was it?"
"Yep," answered Judy. "We'll have the results back to you in a week or so."
Serena was major relieved. After a struggle getting up, her friends and she went back to her house (after going to the bathroom!), where everyone kept discussing about the day's events.
***
Lying on her moon and bunny bed, Serena felt a jab of pain in her lower abdomen. The pain was like nothing she had ever felt before. Unhesitant, she picked up the phone and speed-dialed Darien's cellular number. After only half a ring, Darien was on the line.
"Hello? Serena? Is that you?" he asked, panting.
Serena clenched her teeth and fought the pain, then released herself. "Darien, can you please come to my house right now? I just had the worst pain in my entire life in my womb, and I think I'm going into labor. I'm also due today June 30th at noon, but it's only 8 a.m. This was my first contraction, and none of my family is home."
Darien's face turned white as a ghost. "Ohmigod. Serena, HOLD STILL until I get there, OK? I'm coming right now! I'm only two blocks away from your house."
"Please, hurry! This really hurts!" cried Serena. She hung up and started her breathing exercises, just as she's been taught by Amy and Lita. Please hurry, pleaded Serena, inwardly. She started to sweat.
Only ten seconds later, Darien arrived, not at the front door with a key, but through Serena's window as Tuxedo Mask. He de-transformed and scooped up Serena in a safe flash. She grabbed her hospital bag full of things, and they were downstairs pretty soon, with the help of Tuxedo Mask again. When they got into the car, Serena sat in the front seat, and Darien drove off, 70 miles an hour. On his cell phone, he called up the Scouts and told them to meet them there.
At the arrival of the emergency room, Serena was helped right away. Her contractions calmed when she arrived, and she was changed and propped up comfortably, then given a number of antibiotics and pain-killers. Darien had to change into another outfit but he did it in a flash and was by his girlfriend's side in no time (yes, they're considered an actual couple now).
In her room, Serena was sweating again. She looked up at Darien and replied, "Is everything going to be OK? Am I doing fine?"
He patted her head. "Everything's going great, Serena. Don't worry, the doctors know what they're doing. And always remember, I won't leave you throughout this whole thing. I am going to be right here whenever you need anything. The Scouts just arrived and they're in the waiting room, dressed in this hospital outfit just like I am. And after this whole thing, we're going to have a surprise for you."
"A surprise? Really? what is it?" Serena asked, eager and happy.
"Shh, you'll see," answered Darien, grinning. Suddenly he gasped, along with Serena. She squeeze his hand her hardest, leaving her boyfriend trying not to scream in pain. Finally, she let go, gasping. "Wow, that was a big one," she replied.
"Ow," complained Darien.
Serena stared into his eyes and released his hand. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to squeeze so hard, but that really hurt."
"It's all right," he remarked. "I need to practice my resistance to pain anyways." He shook his hand around.
Following the several more close contractions, the real action began. Dr. Koto was in the room with her assistant nurses, and everything was ready.
"I'm scared, Darien," Serena whimpered. "Is there anything that's going to go wrong?"
"No, nothing's going to go wrong," certified Darien. "And keep concentrating on happiness, OK? Nothing's going to go wrong." Both of their hands locked together.
Dr. Koto got her gloves and mask on and smiled at the both of them.
"All right, Serena, we're going to do this together, OK? I'm going to help you out with all my power, and I tell you everything that's going on," assured the kind doctor. "Your baby's head is starting to crown..."
"AHH! OWW!" cried Serena. She restrained herself from her childish self, and started to put back on her grown up attitude. She squeezed Darien's hand hard, and that started to send chills down his back. "I don't know if I can do this! I don't know if I can! It's hurts!"
"Serena! Don't worry!" panicked Darien. He calmed down. "Remember what Andrew's little blanket gift said? 'Be strong, and never give up.' Mostly importantly, remember this part, your favorite part; '...in the name of the moon, you will be free again.' Keep saying that, keep believing it!" He whispered in her ear, "Pretend you're Sailormoon and fight the pain!"
"You're right," panted Serena. "In the--name of the moon, you will be free again..."
Dr. Koto smiled. "There you go Serena, keep believing that. All right, the head is completely born, and now for the body. It's showing, and now I need you to give a large push, OK? This is will be it, and your baby will be born. Ready?"
Serena looked at Darien and nodded, readying her hand. "Ready," Serena answered, confident. She pushed and squeezed, pretending this was the final duel with the Negaverse. Clenching her teeth, she pushed harder and harder. After what seems to be hours of pushing, it was all over. The newborn started to cry, and what a shrill cry it was! It sounded like Serena when she was just born, and she looked exactly like her too! The nurses and Darien cheered for joy as the newborn laid in Dr. Koto's arms. Serena let go and lay back, smiling her biggest. "It's all over! Thanks everyone!" she whispered. She grabbed Darien and kissed him long. "Thank you Darien."
"Anytime," he answered, smiling. "I'm proud of you. And congratulations! You're finally a mother!" He leaned down and kissed her on head cheek.
Dr. Koto cut the umbilical cord and handed the baby over to the nurse, who washed the baby girl. She was then dried and wrapped clean into a new sterile towel, then handed into Serena's arms. She looked down at her new daughter and smiled, blinking tears. Her daughter had a little pink fuzz for hair, her eyes were as red as rich strawberries. (insert author's evil laugh) The baby looked into Serena's eyes and gurgled.
"Congratulations, it's a healthy baby girl!" cried the Doctor.
Darien asked, "What are you going to name your new daughter?"
Serena looked up with a confused look on her face. Her daughter started to feed by her mom's breast feeding. "I haven't thought much about it," Serena answered. "I don't know, what would you name her?"
Darien shrugged. "She looks a lot like you. Maybe something in your name range is good."
She started to think, and then it came to her. "I know! Since she looks so much like me, why don't we name her...Rini (Insert last author's evil laugh)! It's a shorter and more 'junior-like' version of my name, since she looks so much like me."
"A great choice," commended Darien. "See, I told you she'll look just as beautiful as you. (leaned down and whispered in Serena's ear) Do you think the light that hit you by the Crescent Moon Wand was worth it?"
Serena nodded. "Yep! She's the baby that I've always wanted. (talking to the baby in an angel-like voice, like her future self Neo-Queen Serenity) You're such a beautiful girl! Mommy would be the best mommy ever to you! I love you so much Rini, you know that right? (Rini burped) Mommy's going to teach you all kinds of things, and her friends are helping too!"
Darien stood straight and requested, "Honey, you want me to get the girls now? They'll be anxious to see you and Rini."
"Sure," smiled Serena. Darien nodded and left the room in a flash. Serena on the hand was having a nice little conversation with Rini.
Darien outside found the girls. They stood up in an instant and asked all their questions at once.
"Is Serena all right?"
"How's she and her baby?"
"What are her conditions?"
"Is her baby definitely a girl?"
Darien hollered, "No offense, but SHUT UP! I'll answer your questions one by one. Serena and her daughter are completely fine, and the doctor got all good results. She definitely got the child she wanted; it's a girl and she looks exactly like her. Now, are there anymore questions? I can bring you guys in now."
The girls let out a huge sigh of relief.
"What's her daughter's name?" asked Mina, walking with the group to Serena's room.
Darien turned. "She named her Rini, because she looked so much like her. Hey, you girls know about the surprise routine, right? I'll give you girls the cue." He and the Scouts stepped into Serena's room quietly, but the girls were rushing to her side once they got in.
"Wow, congrads' Serena! On you and your daughter Rini!" exclaimed Lita.
"She's a beauty, and she's going to be just like her mother!" smirked Raye. The look in her eyes shows a great and true friend. No more fights! I can't and will never fight with my best friend again! she thought. (and they didn't fight ever again, as said!)
"You're all right, right?" asked Amy.
"Congratulations!" remarked Mina.
Serena smiled at her friends and answered them again with that same angelic voice. "Thank you all," she replied. "Thank you for helping me through this whole pregnancy. It meant a lot to me."
Her friends squealed in delight and enjoyed the moment; of being there and being aunts. Just then, Serena's family came in, and they hurried over. They took turns holding Rini and talking to Serena, and Serena's dad was a lot kinder to Darien now. He treated him like a slight part of his family!
Raye looked at Darien, and he nodded. She turned back to Serena and said, "We have a surprise for you Serena?"
"Really? You guys are so kind," complimented Serena. "What is it?"
The girls looked at Darien and cued each other. "Happy birthday, Serena and Rini!"
"What? Rini was just born today! What are you talking about?" asked Serena.
Lita laughed. "Think about the date; it's June 30, your birthday! Rini was your present! Well, it's not a traditional present, but..."
"Oh this is the greatest!" yelped Serena. "Well, this baby WAS from myself, so it was like a birthday present to myself. But it's the best present I'll ever get!"
"Yep! And you can cherish her as a forever present! Hopefully, you won't have too much trouble with her when you get home!" cried Raye.
"I doubt that," giggled Amy and Serena.
***
Two weeks later at home...
"Mina! Can you help me an extra towel? I have to change Rini's diaper and she's crying!" called out Serena, a bit weak.
"Sure thing!" yelled Mina.
"I'll go get the baby powder!" volunteered Amy, who was with Serena.
"Darien! Can you get Rini a new outfit! She peuked in this one, and I have to wash it!" desired Serena.
"Yeah," he answered quickly, as he went to get it.
After more running around and getting things ready, Rini was properly fed, burped and changed. Serena's friends have been over everyday so far to help her take care of Rini and herself. Her mom helped, but she had other jobs to do. They've been a great deal of help, and Serena got plenty of healthy rest. She never left her new daughter's side for too long, and she treated Rini with all the respect a person can give. Serena even tried to teach her things already!
All of her friends, especially Raye, were amazed how Serena changed from a childish crying kid into a very mature and loving mother. They were all proud of their friend and Sailorscout leader. Serena decided to not really give up her Sailormoon duty, since it was just getting to sink in. But for the time being, she entrusted the Crescent Moon Wand to Mina, because next to her, Mina had the most leadership and fighting experience of the Negaverse. The other Scouts were glad that Mina was chosen, instead of Raye or the others.
One day, when Rini was almost a month old, Darien was side side by side with Serena on her bed watching and taking care of Rini.
"I'm so proud of how you've changed, Meatball Head," he replied. "And you don't even mind that nickname anymore!"
Serena smiled and placed Renee on her lap. "This mother job can be really tiring, but it's worth it. I know you don't call me that name on purpose anymore. I've grown to like it, actually! I feel so great! My grades are the B- level, and I love this child with all my heart. And, I love you, too. You've been such a great boyfriend and helper to me. I--I don't know how to thank you! All you've done for me and Rini! How can you find so much time and effort to help us?"
"I don't mind it at all," Darien answered. "You two are the most important people in my life, and I have to protect you two. I do the same with the Scouts and with all my good friends. And you--you're the best thing that have ever happened to me. I love you too, and Renee. You sure are growing to a be a great mother. You're all so gentle and caring, like an angel! I admire you for that."
Serena blushed. "I love this child so much! I HAVE to give her the best benefits of life! She's going to very beautiful, and be even smarter than me! With the help of Amy, the Scouts, and you, she'll be the best daughter ever. (staring down at Rini) She already is, by the way. She cried a lot during the first week she was home, but now she hardly does anything too bad anymore! Her cheeks are so blushing-red and cute!"
"Just like her mother," replied Darien.
Serena moved closer to him. "And, I think the Crescent moon Wand helped too. When It hit me, I realized that I wanted some of your good characteristics to be her too, and she has your stubbornness and brightness. Well, and mine too, but more of yours."
Darien laughed. "Thanks, honey. You're amazingly such a good mother, probably the best mother ever! She's going to be the best girl ever."
Serena held up her finger. "Correction, she's going to be the best girl of OUR daughter. Since the Moon Wand had some of your characteristics in it, you can become Rini's 'father'."
"Are you sure you want me to hold that position? Why?" asked Darien. "Besides the 'inheritance'."
"You're certainly a very kind and wonderful person, 'Tuxedo Mask'," explained Serena, giggling. "I trust that you will be, with my heart."
"Thank you Sailormoon," he whispered. "Thank you... for EVERYTHING in all of I've known you for. And, she maybe the next Sailormoon after you, or just ANOTHER Sailormoon, but she'll be just as great as her mother."
The "family" sat close together and shared their moment. Serena and Darien shared a long romantic kiss. Darien from then on always acted to Rini as a real father, and the "family" lived on their lives (together, probably in several more years) happily ever after!
The End!!!