Author's Note: Most of this prologue is made of excepts from Black Moon Enemies, which is Book 2 of the series. There are a few additions so you can begin to see what is going on in the minds of Seijouru and Natsume. So, if things seem familiar, you have the reason. There are some hints to what has happened in the rest of the story, but not many because I don't like spoilers... so if you want, you can always go back and read the first two stories. Please enjoy!

Also, please join me in thanking nancynmnh37 for the second half of the title for this story!

Makaiju:
The Promise of a Rose
Dark Endymion Takes Usagi: Book 3
Prologue

What Came Before...

January 20

Sailor Moon gave a tired sigh. Tuxedo Kamen picked her up and was about to carry her home when they noticed a bright light streaking across the sky.

There was a flash of light as the thing hit the ground and without so much as a word, all the Senshi, and the Shitennou headed in that direction.

In a parking lot near the Azabu-Juuban Shopping District, where three large stores opened up, they found a large crater in the ground. Sailor Moon sent another message to the police, and they gathered around looking for evidence of the meteor. There was no sign of anything in the crater, and she passed several confused looks between herself, Ami, and Mamoru.

It was Nephrite that made the leap. "I'm thinking, that something did land here, but it moved before we got here." A crowd was starting to form and he and the other Shitennou moved to keep everyone back until the police could arrive. They didn't know if there was any radiation or other harmful effects, so they stayed well back themselves.

"Sailor Moon!" several voices cried out to her, and she turned to see Naru and Umino at the edge of the crowd. The two of them were adorable together. She moved towards them, but pretended not to actually know them.

"Is there something you needed?" Her voice was quiet and kind, but she tried to keep it brisk.

"I just wanted to say I'm really glad you're okay. You've saved my life a lot, and I'm grateful. So thank you and I'm glad you're safe."

She couldn't help but reach out and hug the girl. "Thank you! That means a lot!" She pulled away after that, and Tuxedo Kamen lifted her into his arms and carried her away.

"The others can report to us later," he whispered. "Right now, you need a bit more sleep, and something to eat."

Ami, Makoto, and Rei showed up at their apartment two hours later. It was barely light, but the girls were all dressed and had their school things. Slowly but surely the apartment filled up as everyone finished getting ready for their day and arrived for the large breakfast Mamoru was cooking.

Makoto took over, pushing Mamoru out of the kitchen. "I already know everything the others do, you need to hear it. Plus, I like to cook." She grinned and Mamoru went to sit at the table with Usagi who was resting her arms on the table to pillow her head. He nudged her and she sat up.

"So the police arrived about ten minutes after you left. It was a bit of a circus, so I'm glad you headed out when you did honestly," Kunzite informed them. "No traces of whatever landed there, but there was a large impression in the asphalt in the bottom of the crater. Whatever it was spanned at least thirty feet. Could have been a craft of some kind. Maybe someone from the Black Moon Clan, or this Dead Moon Circus."

Usagi shuddered and rubbed her arms uneasily. Mamoru pulled her into his lap to comfort her. He watched her throughout the meeting, and after those words had been spoken she seemed to withdraw into herself. She barely touched her food, no matter how much he coaxed. He figured if the mood didn't end soon he was going to have to call her mother for advice... again.

"Well whatever it was left no radiation or any other detectable contaminants according to the Mercury computer," Ami added.

"Nothing?"

"None that we are familiar with here on earth." Ami clarified. "There are probably gases and elements we don't know or understand."

She paid attention as the principal came in to speak with Haruna-sensei. A few minutes later a boy and girl entered the class and went to stand by the desk.

"We have some new students," announced Haruna-sensei. "I'd like you to meet Ginga Seijouru and Ginga Natsume. They are transfer students, and brother and sister." The girl had reddish hair to the middle of her back, and the boy brown hair, which was short. He carried some sort of flute, and Usagi thought it looked odd. Not something she'd seen before.

The boy stared at Usagi for a long moment, making her squirm uncomfortably in her seat. He was directed to sit in the open seat right behind her, and she could feel his eyes on her back. This was not going to be a comfortable school year, she decided.

January 21

The new boy, Seijouru was driving Usagi slightly insane. He had no concept of personal space, and had been touching her hair on and off throughout the morning. The last thing she needed, after all she had been through, was some creepy boy messing with her. After the third time she pulled both her long tails of hair over her shoulder.

A few minutes later, Seijouru grabbed one of them and pulled it back. Usagi lost her temper. Turning in her seat she sent him a glare that had once terrified many Youma. "STOP IT NOW!" She hissed at him. "DON'T touch me." She turned back to face the front, and a second later he was pulling on her hair again.

Frustrated and feeling a little overwhelmed, Usagi stood, prepared to change seats. Haruna-sensei caught her eye and told her to sit back down.

"Can I please change seats?" Usagi asked, her voice quiet and obviously frustrated.

Haruna-sensei looked around, but there was no where else to put Usagi. "I'm sorry Usagi, but there is no where else. Can you manage to hold on a little longer?" Usagi realize her teacher was at least somewhat aware of what was going on, but was at the moment unable to put a stop to it. She nodded and sat back down.

::Mamoru, you may have to bail me out of jail soon.::

::WHAT?::

::New boy driving me insane. Doesn't understand the meaning of no!::

::I'll be there soon Usako. Don't worry about it. Just hold on until lunch. Forty minutes.::

When the bell finally rang for lunch Usagi was at her wits end. There were tears in her eyes, and her fists were clenched under her desk. Makoto looked livid, and Ami and Minako not much better. As soon as the bell had rung, Usagi tore out of her seat and went to their lunch spot in the garden. She didn't care if it was the middle of winter. Didn't care that it was chilly out and she'd left her sweater at her desk. She just had to flee that classroom.

She threw herself onto the ground at the base of their tree, and pulled her knees up, until she realized she could no longer rest her head on her knees because of her growing stomach. Bitter tears began to fall. There was a sudden glow from her belly and she found herself snuggling a giant stuffed bunny. She laughed outright, and the laughter didn't stop until long after Mamoru and the girls had arrived.

"I'm four freaking months pregnant, and married for crying out loud!" Usagi wailed as she tore through the rice balls Makoto had made for her. "I'm way too old to be having some boy act out old school-yard crush crap!" She took another huge bite, and barely chewed before swallowing the yummy food.

Mamoru rubbed her shoulder. "Want me to go have a talk with this creep?"

Usagi nodded, then thought better of it and shook her head. "You'd probably hurt him and end up in trouble." She sighed. "Maybe I can sit with one of the girls behind me instead. Lets see if Haruna-sensei will change it around." She finished eating and the six of them stood, cleaning up their mess, before making their way to the teacher's lounge.

Haruna sensei ended up changing the seating so that Makoto was directly behind her. Ami and Minako were put to either side of her so that there was no other seat open for the new boy to harass her. She felt better knowing she would be protected.

Mamoru considered himself to be a smart and fair person. He was generous to most, and honest to a fault, except where it concerned his secret identity. But just then he was feeling a little sinister and devious. He wanted a glimpse of the new boy who had made his Usako cry with frustration. He smiled remembering the giant bunny, which was now stuffed in the back of their SUV.

He left the middle school and headed for the grocery store. He wouldn't be going back to school himself that day, mostly because he wanted to be there for Usagi, and make sure the new little punk realized she was very taken. He smiled. Filling the cart with healthy snacks and protein bars, he walked through the grocery store, looking for something to put a smile on Usagi's face.

His eyes lit up when he saw a new selection of mad-libs. This particular grocery store had a lot of American food and items. It was the main reason he shopped there. He loved finding new things for Usagi to try. He threw the mad-libs into the cart and saw a new type of candy. They were shaped like little mini bottles. "Baby Bottle Pops," he read, and smiled. He bought all twelve, laughing at the look on the clerks face when he checked out. Most people knew him and Usagi, and knew their story. Some were shocked that they could be so happy about the pregnancy, and apparently this young man was one of them.

He drove back to the middle school. The receptionist smiled at him when he dropped several bags with the school nurse, and then called Haruna-sensei to make sure it was okay for him to bring a few of the bags to the classroom. Healthy snacks were important, and Mamoru played that up. He reminded the secretary and Haruna-sensei that Usagi already had a hard time maintaining her weight before the pregnancy and that she'd fainted several times. He played up his worry quite well he was sure. The receptionist was smiling at him and Haruna-sensei spoke rapidly through the phone telling her to send him back.

Mamoru smiled as he walked through the hallways. Sometimes you had to go above and beyond for the woman you loved. He knew Usagi could sense him getting closer, and probably pick up on his glee. He planned to play this for all he was worth. He opened the classroom door.

"Arigatou gozaimasu Haruna-sensei." He murmured with a small bow as he approached her desk. She gave him a knowing smile, and he realized she saw right through him, and approved. He smiled back.

"You can put Usagi's things in the cabinet by the door." She spoke in a normal voice, but it carried nonetheless. "She almost fainted this morning. Are you taking her to see Mizuno-san soon?"

Mamoru nodded. "Yes, I plan to. The babies take a lot out of her." His voice was also normal. They were making the discussion public for her own well-being. He turned and smiled at Usagi. She was blushing a bit, but smiling happily. She was well aware of his plan. The other girls were nodding at him, and smiling.

He stacked the boxes in the cabinet, then turned when he came to his newest find. "Look at these Haruna-sensei. Another American candy!" He smiled brightly and the teacher laughed when he held up the candy shaped like baby bottles. She called Usagi up to the front of the class. The students were supposed to be practicing nouns, but everyone was watching the by-play instead.

"Mamo-chan!" She smiled and hugged her husband. "These are so cute!" Mamoru handed her two of them and put the rest into the cupboard. He then very obviously rubbed her swollen belly and bent to kiss her gently on the mouth.

At that moment he glimpsed the new boy, who had short brown hair, staring at the two of them, mouth agape. In a voice a little louder than necessary he said, "my wife deserves the best!" He saw Usagi trying to hide her giggles and smiled down at her. The tiny little blonde made his world complete and he would do absolutely anything for her. "Are you feeling better after lunch? I still don't think you ate enough."

Usagi nodded. "I felt full when I was done," she said, then admitted, "but I'm already hungry again."

"Well until we can get you to gain some weight you'll have to snack more often." He handed her a package of yogurt covered raisins. "I already left bags with the nurse, and the principal says its fine as well. If you need to eat just come to Haruna-sensei. I know some of your other teachers don't want food in their classrooms." Luckily Haruna sensei taught several subjects, and for most of the day the middle-schoolers in her class stayed there.

He kissed Usagi again, and she hugged him. He bowed to Haruna-sensei and she winked. Finally, just before he went out the door, he caught the eye of the new boy and gave him a small frown. It was enough to make the boy jump.

::That was awesome! You are so bad!:: He heard Usagi's mental laughter.

::Anything for my Usako. I love you!::

::I love you too Mamo-chan.::

Sakurada Haruna couldn't help but laugh as Mamoru left the classroom. He was less than subtle, but had acted in a way that was non-violent and less threatening than it could have been. She approved of his actions, and Usagi's. The two had a special place in her heart. She had never forgotten that day when she'd visited the two of them in the hospital. How broken and devastated they had both been, and yet still completely devoted to one another. It was rare to find a couple who could come through what they had unscathed.

She pondered over what she would do if she were forced to hurt someone she loved, or had been the recipient of such an act. She wasn't sure she'd be able to move past it. But Usagi didn't blame Mamoru in the slightest. She remembered the day Usagi had suddenly stood up in the middle of class and said she had to go to him. She'd begged to use the phone and had called her father. "Mamoru needs me." It was all she'd said to the man, but he'd arrived less than ten minutes later, and had driven her to the highschool to get to him.

Haruna, like most people in the Azabu Juuban district knew of the events that followed. How Mamoru, who had broken down after another student had insulted Usagi, had been crying helplessly on the floor and Usagi walked in and healed his broken heart with her words. The students at the high school had nicknamed her the moon angel, and felt that Mamoru was lucky to have someone like her in his life. Haruna agreed. While Usagi was not the best student by any means, she truly lived up to her name. She would do anything to help others, friend or stranger.

She had her suspicions about the girl. She knew that her hospitalization and pregnancy coincided too well with that of Sailor Moon. And Tuxedo Kamen had been missing, while Mamoru had. It was too much to be coincidence, and though she never said anything, she watched carefully. She noticed the times of disappearances and tardiness, and those mornings when Usagi was too exhausted to do more than sit staring listlessly at her desk. And her friends... at least three of them were dead-ringers for the other Sailor Senshi... plus the girl with black hair she'd met at the hospital.

Watching Usagi that morning had been frustrating. She, more than anyone else, understood what it was like to be afraid of men. She'd once been boy crazy herself. Not anymore. So anything she could do to help the girl, she would do.

She handed back graded papers, and stopped by Usagi's desk for a moment. "Your husband loves you very much," she said. Usagi nodded and smiled up at her.

"More than I deserve," she said with conviction.

Haruna smiled. "No, I think you both deserve each other. He completes you, and you him." Usagi's eyes filled with happy tears. Her job done, she turned to the next student, Makoto, who gave her a huge smile. That one would protect Usagi as much as Mamoru, she knew.

January 22

Naru met up with Usagi at the gate. Mamoru handed her friend off to her like a precious gem, and she had to stop herself from giggling madly. It was so cute. Umino raced over to them, holding a newspaper and babbling about the recent meteor strike. He'd been talking about it non-stop since it'd happened. They'd both unfortunately been awakened by the flash of light that night, and had made their way there.

"Where are the other girls?" Umino asked, noticing Usagi's other three friends weren't surrounding her.

"Um, Rei is transferring here and Haruna-sensei asked for their help rearranging the desks and adding a couple new ones." Usagi grinned. "I don't know if any more desks can fit in there."

"We do seem to have the largest class in our grade," Naru admitted. "But Haruna-sensei does well with all of us."

Usagi nodded. "She's the best. She's come through for me time and time again. Making sure I have what I need, even coming to the hospital back when..." she trailed off with a shudder and Naru put her hand on her friend's shoulder.

"We know. I heard Mamoru and your dad talked the school into changing your curriculum after the babies are born." They were walking into the school now and the new boy, Seijouru, turned to look at them, his mouth open. Naru glared. He'd made her friend cry.

Seijouru transformed into Ail as soon as he entered the chamber of the Makaiju tree. An was already there. She was going by Natsume for their cover. She was sitting on one of the branches, looking pale and drawn.

"You need energy, and fast," Ail muttered. He pulled out a batch of cards and asked her to choose. She picked a card and Vampeal appeared. He ordered the Cardian away to get energy, then picked An up and carried her to a small fork in the branches.

"Why do you like the blonde girl?" An asked in a small voice.

"I don't know, but I saw you staring at her black-haired boy," he answered. "Why do you want him so much?"

"I don't know," she replied.

Usagi was getting ready for bed when she felt a strangeness to the air. Unsure what to make of it, she looked around, wondering if it was some new enemy. The phone rang and she picked it up off the nightstand. Naru's panicked voice came through the speaker.

"Usagi, there's something out there, in front of the Jewelry shop. It's attacking people and they're falling down like they used to after a Youma attack. I think it's taking... oh crap... it just looked at me. HELP!"

::MAMORU!:: Usagi practically screamed through her link, sending thoughts about rescuing Naru.

Without a thought she had henshined and leapt for the balcony. She raced through the night, getting to OSA-P Jewelry quickly. Naru and her mother lived above the store, and Sailor Moon raced into the building and toward the stairs. Naru's mother asked what was going on, and she said Naru was in danger and to stay where she was.

She entered the room to find Luna and Artemis trying to prevent the new creature from attacking Naru, who was nearly comatose on the bedroom floor. "Vampeal," hissed the creature.

"What the hell are you?" Sailor Moon asked in exasperation. This was not the time for yet another new enemy!

"It's a Cardian," said a voice. She looked up to see a boy floating in the air just outside Naru's window. He had blue hair with pink highlights, and was wearing what appeared to be a jumpsuit.

"Well that's just great!" she muttered. She tore her tiara off her head and threw it at the creature, who dissolved into dust. "As if we need more creatures to fight. Cardians, Droids, still the occasional Youma lurking about. Can't we ever catch a break?" She caught her tiara as it spun back to her and had placed it back on her forehead before she even finished speaking. "Look, whoever you are... We really don't like it when people like you start hurting innocents."

"I am Ail, and I don't think you have the power to stop me." He frowned though, looking at the pile of dust which had recently been his Cardian.

"What exactly is it you want?" Sailor Moon tried to keep her voice calm. Naru was staring up at them from the floor.

"To survive." The boy disappeared and Sailor Moon let out a huff of air.

Tuxedo Mask picked Naru up and put her in the bed. He'd been behind her the whole time, but had let her handle the fighting since there was only enough space in the bedroom for one to maneuver. He reached out a hand and placed it on Naru's forehead, sending healing energy into her.

"Thanks Mamoru," she whispered, and then fell asleep.

Tuxedo Kamen turned to Sailor Moon and held out a hand. "You, my darling superhero, were spectacular!"

Sailor Moon laughed. She called to Naru's mother that it was safe and Naru was going to sleep, and they launched themselves out of the window. "I felt like my old self fighting that thing. Not weak or drained at all. I hope it lasts!"

January 23

On Wednesday morning Mamoru decided to stay with Usagi until the very last moment before class. The high school started twenty minutes later than the Middle School, so he had the time. The two of them sat together at one of the picnic benches around the garden, just holding each other and talking silently. It was a great morning, to his mind anyways, and based on the feelings pulsing though their bond, she was enjoying herself as well.

::I love you Usako:: he kissed her gently and nuzzled his face into her neck.

::I love you too Mamo-chan, but I really don't want to get into trouble.:: A little mental giggle followed.

::Ah, but we're being watched.:: He didn't look up or move, and she followed his example. ::That new boy is staring at you, and I really don't like it that he isn't taking the hint. Is it just me or do the boys seem ultra attracted to you? And they aren't remotely subtle about it!::

::I know how you feel at least. Girls everywhere fawn all over you! Remember how Beryl kept trying to... entice you?:: Usagi shuddered and Mamoru rubbed his hand up and down her back gently.

::Yeah. Some of the girls are crazy. I was getting all these love letters in my locker right up until that day...:: He thought about the day he'd broken down. That day had made it clear to everyone that the two of them were a couple and absolutely no one and nothing would come between the two of them.

::The boys here have all stopped too, except Seijouru. I really thought after you came in that day he wouldn't try anymore, but Makoto has chased him away several times. And according to Naru, Natsume thinks she can steal you away from me. She was bragging about it in gym the other day.::

Mamoru looked up and met the eyes of the strange brother and sister who were staring at them. Sure enough, both seemed to show signs of a stalkerish lust. Something would have to be done about that. He lifted Usagi's chin and kissed her. Quickly it changed from gentle to passionate and Usagi had to pull away to remind him they couldn't do anything where they were.

::I wish you could take a sick day.:: It was a mental groan that made Usagi giggle.

Suddenly there was the sound of singing. Her belly, which was pressed right up against Mamoru, was beginning to glow slightly, and he could hear faint words.

"Little bunny foo foo,
Hopping through the forest
Scooping up the field mice,
And bopping them on the head"

::OH NO!:: Usagi's voice sounded panicked, and she looked around wildly. Only Natsume and Seijouru were close, and they were looking at the pair strangely. ::No one can see this! Or hear this!::

::Calm down. Don't look panicked. If you too they'll get suspicious. For all they know it could be a music box. I hope this doesn't last.::

Mamoru reached down to her belly and jiggled the babies through the skin. "Stop that! You'll get mommy in trouble!"

"And down came the blue Fairy, and she said
Little bunny foo foo,"

"Stop it kiddo's," begged Usagi.

"I don't wanna see you
Scooping up the field mice,
And bopping them on the head."

"Children, listen now!" He jiggled her belly again, but the music continued. Seijouru was pointing at Usagi now, and whispering to Natsume. The two stepped forward. But the music and light continued.

"And now I'll give you 3 more chances,
And if you keep it up
I'll turn you into a..."

"PLEASE!" Usagi whispered hoarsely, as the two new students grew closer to them. The music finally stopped and the light disappeared.

"What was that," asked Natsume, walking up to them.

"Uh, um..." Usagi seemed unsure what to say.

"Music box," Mamoru said. It was the only explanation he could think of. The girl cocked her head to the side and looked at him as though she didn't understand the words. "Lights up and plays sounds. It stopped working is all." He pressed the call button on Usagi's communicator, sending a silent signal to the others to come to her location. It was the newest feature. The other communicators would show directions to get to her.

The other four girls were racing towards them.

"Usagi, I was wondering if maybe you would like to go to lunch with me." Seijouru held out a hand to the little blonde in Mamoru's arms. Red filled his vision and rage erupted in him so strongly he wasn't sure he could control himself.

"Stay the hell away from my wife! Can't you see you frighten her? What the hell is wrong with you?" He never noticed he was standing, and now screaming at the younger boy.

Usagi put a hand on his arm. ::MAMORU!:: She warned. ::Stay calm or they wont let you come here.::

The thought of being separated from her calmed him, but he still glared at Seijouru.

Natsume looked over at Mamoru. "You know, I could take you to lunch while she goes with my brother." She smiled and reached over to put a hand on Mamoru's arm.

Usagi stood and turned. The look in her eyes spoke of the worst kind of death. Violent and permanent death. "You leave my husband ALONE!" she screamed. Mamoru put his arms around her waist before her personal shield could erupt and give them away.

"You are a freak!" Natsume insisted. "You and your belly singing and your... your... You're a FREAK!"

Usagi was shaking in his arms. Fortunately the other girls had arrived, and surrounded the two of them, putting distance between them and the brother and sister.

"You want to talk about freak?" Usagi screamed. Mamoru was surprised at the venom in her voice. "Who goes around trying to date a married man? Or woman?" she turned her glare on Seijouru. "Something is seriously messed up with the two of you!"

"Messed up? Freak? I can show you freak little girl." Natsume looked as though she might attempt to hit Usagi and Mamoru pushed her behind him. The last thing they needed was the shield to go up and expose them.

The bell rang for classes to begin. Mamoru turned to Usagi. "Lets get you to class." He turned back. "Both of you stay the hell away from my wife or we'll report you!" He picked up Usagi, who was shaking so hard it was nearly impossible for her to walk, and moved away quickly while the girls blocked the other two from following. He brought her straight to her class and explained to Haruna-sensei as best he could.

Usagi started to drink her shake even before he left. Her energy already seemed to be depleted. He worried about leaving her at the school at all, but the girls promised to take care of her, and Haruna-sensei said she would watch her. He shuddered once as Natsume tried to grab his arm, and pulled away from the girl. Usagi looked as though she might cry.

::It'll be okay, Usako. I love you.::

::I love you too.:: Her voice was sad in his head and waves of disappointment and frustration came through the bond. He knew she just wanted to go home and call the day over.

Mamoru himself was worried. They couldn't take many more of these outbursts when she was un-henshined. The babies were going to give her away! He thought maybe he would have to have Mizuno-san sign for her to homeschool until they were born. Usagi would be miserable, but safe.

"Haruna-sensei?" Usagi whispered as her teacher passed her desk. "May I be excused to the bathroom? I'm not feeling very well." Her teacher nodded her head and Usagi slipped out of her chair and made her way into the hall. Her head hurt and her entire body seemed to ache, from her toes up. She'd been doing so much better before the run-in with Natsume and Seijouru. Now she was exhausted and felt weak. She walked down the hallway slowly, her hand against the lockers students put their normal footwear in before donning school slippers.

She wanted to go home and sleep. When she reached the bathroom she looked into the mirror and gasped. The dark circles were back, her cheeks seemed almost hollow, and her skin was so pale it was nearly translucent. She looked like death warmed over. Definitely she needed a nap. She was nauseous again, and even though she tried to hold it back she was sick. It made her worry about the babies. This longer illness and her weakness couldn't be good for them.

When she was finally feeling better and had brushed her teeth it was the lunch hour. She opened the bathroom door and stepped out only to find someone blocking her from moving down the hall. Usagi couldn't help but shrink away from Seijouru. "Stay away from me!" She begged her babies silently not to put the shield up, but wasn't sure if they would listen. If that shield went up she would never be able to hide her identity again, and she wouldn't be the only one exposed. He stepped closer to her and put a hand on her shoulder and she instinctively bent away from him and called out.

Instantly Naru was next to her, and shoved Seijouru away. "GET AWAY FROM USAGI!" her best friend screamed. Running feet could be heard and she was suddenly surrounded by very pissed off Senshi, though at least they stayed in their human forms. She was so thankful her shield hadn't come up she nearly cried.

Mamoru is not going to be happy with this, Usagi thought mournfully. Maybe it was time she stayed home until her pregnancy was over. Between dealing with the new students and her sickness, she just didn't think it was the best idea to stay there anymore.

The girls stayed between her and Seijouru and Naru pulled her away to go sit in the office for lunch. When she was safely there she sent out a message to Mamoru.

::Another incident with that STUPID BOY!:: She huffed mentally. ::I don't think I can take any more!::

::We'll handle it.:: He promised. ::I love you Usako. I'll be there to pick you up as soon as school lets out.::

::Love you Mamo-chan.::

Ami came into the office and asked to see the principal. She was led back into the office and stayed in there while the other girls sat in the hard plastic chairs around Usagi.

Makoto tried to hand Usagi something to eat, but she shook her head. "I wouldn't be able to hold it down right now. Sorry."

"You're drinking another shake then." Rei pulled one of the chocolate shakes out of her subspace pocket, careful not to let anyone see where it came from. "At least try."

Usagi nodded and drank several sips, pretending everything was fine and her mind wasn't going a million miles a minute.

"Look Mamoru, I know you didn't want to put me out or anything, but Zo can bring me any time." Ami said. She looked over at her Soul-Bonded and smiled. He was sitting, face hidden in his hands at the computer desk, and nodded emphatically the moment he lifted his head.

Mamoru began dishing out the plates of spaghetti while the children put silverware on the table. Mamoru lifted Usagi from the couch while Ami and Zo brought the food to the table. He set her down gently and kissed her forehead, propping her IV drip on a bar he had connected to the back of her chair.

"Honestly Ami, I wasn't thrilled with hiring a nurse in the first place. It's just too much risk what with the babies going crazy to protect Usagi. I've been terrified they might raise the shield." He let out a small hoarse laugh as he sat next to his wife.

"That's actually a big part of the reason I wanted to talk to you tonight." Zo reached for her hand under the table. They had discussed this at length, and Ami really felt it was the best course of action. "I think Usagi should stay home when she isn't henshined from now on." She bit her lip waiting for their reactions.

After a few moments of silence she rushed to continue. "She would still be in class... technically. She would be watching class via a computer monitor, and Haruna-sensei would have another monitor so she could see Usagi if she needs to ask questions. They do this all the time for people in other countries, and I ordered all the equipment already. It arrived this morning. I spoke to the principal, and Haruna-sensei and they both said it was alright."

She let out a breath, hoping neither of them would be angry. She stared at her plate, not able to take a bite because of her nerves. She felt Zo squeeze her hand again.

Usagi let out a breath. "Thank God!" she whispered. Ami looked up in surprise. Mamoru was nodding his head and smiling. "I haven't been sure how much more I could take. After the argument this morning, and Seijouru at lunch, I was so drained I thought I might pass out!"

"I've been worried about her health and the babies doing something else a bit wild. You know, singing songs or magically popping a giant bunny into her arms." He let out a short laugh. "Everyone has seen how ill she is. If your mother would sign off on it..."

Ami pulled the slip out of her pocket. "She signed it before I left for school this morning."

"Wow!" Usagi sounded both shocked and happy.

"I've also asked Haruna-sensei to let me stay with you in the mornings, and then Rei or one of the others can be with you in the afternoons. That includes Naru so you can have time with her. The others have to take turns, but because of my grades and the class schedule it was easy for them to agree I could be with you every day. That way Mamoru doesn't lose his scholarship." Ami smiled at Usagi hopefully. "I really don't want you left alone all day."

Usagi was nodding happily. "It's perfect."

"Good," Mamoru agreed. "This takes away so much worry."

"Zo and I will set up the monitors tonight. We already set up the camera and monitor in the classroom. The whole thing is interactive, so you can press on certain questions, or even let the teacher know you're going to the bathroom. It's awesome." Ami knew she was gushing, but she was just so happy they weren't annoyed with her.

"You are the best of friends Ami," Usagi said and opened her arms. Ami ran to her and hugged her tight. "And this way maybe my mom and I can see more of each other too!" She was smiling and happy, though Ami still thought she looked too pale and thin.

"Finish eating Usako. I want to take you to the roof for a bit. You need another dose of moonlight." Mamoru smiled at his tiny little wife, and kissed her cheek.

January 24

Ail was worried. He was disguised as Seijouru for classes, but the little blonde hadn't shown up. He wondered why she wasn't there. It was already ten minutes into class. He'd heard, through old rumors, that she was often late in the past, but that didn't seem to be the case anymore. People all seemed to care a great deal for her, and there were worried murmurs all through the classroom. The little bluenette was missing too, he noted.

Finally Haruna-sensei noticed the whispering and the looks to the empty seats. She stood and called for everyone's attention.

"Class, I notice many of you seem to be worried. I'm sure I can guess the reason as we all care a great deal for Tsukino-san."

Nods and murmurs showed everyone agreed. They were talking about her going missing, and that concerned him even more. He caught bits and pieces of a story about her and the annoying one she was connected to, Mamoru. It was disturbing.

Haruna-sensei turned around a small screen on her desk. On the screen were the faces of Usagi and Ami. Both waved quickly.

"As you can see Usagi-chan is very much okay. She's been a bit under the weather as you all know, and school has been difficult for her lately. We are trying a new program on a trial basis. Ami-chan will be with her in the mornings, and one of the others in her small group will spend the afternoons with her. As soon as she is feeling better we hope to have her back for half-days."

More murmurs and whispers filled the air, but they all seemed happier now. Seijouru was feeling relieved to know she was alright, but oddly angry because she wasn't where he could see her and talk to her. The feelings were new for him, and he didn't understand them.

Natsume caught his eye and shook her head. He wondered what she was thinking. She'd been very quiet lately, and he didn't understand why.

Minako smiled as she closed the app for their school day. Spending the afternoon with Usagi had been fun. Ikuko had brought lunch over so the girl didn't have to cook and had even shown Minako how to put a new IV bag on the piece that had been left in Usagi's hand. Ami would take it out before they went to their audition thankfully, because the idea terrified Minako.

Usagi was a bit grumpy about having to have two additional IV bags a day. She grumbled and whined that the needle made it hard for her to do her work. But Minako couldn't blame her. Honestly she hated needles with a passion.

When the other girls had finally arrived, almost half an hour later they walked down the street to the bus stop together. Riding the bus was usually fun, but Minako noticed Usagi turning a bit green, and she pulled the cord to let them out two blocks early to let her walk it off. Makoto seemed just as excited as she did. Rei and Usagi both spent the time on the way there talking about the kids, and Usagi's pregnancy. Ami spent most of the time surreptitiously checking on Usagi's condition.

"You do seem better Usagi," she admitted as they waited at the gates to the studio. You don't look nearly as bad as yesterday, and your vitals have improved."

"Yay me," Usagi said with a happy little chirp. "I think it was Rei's idea that really helped. The moment the moonlight hits me I can feel myself getting stronger. I just wish I could keep my food down."

"My mom sent a new prescription for that," Ami said quietly. "She thinks it will help."

Rei dug in her purse. "That reminds me, the secretary at the kids school said you should try these." She held out a small bag holding lemon drops, an American candy.

Usagi opened the package and popped one into her mouth, stuffing the rest into her tiny purse. After a few minutes she nodded and smiled. "They do help!"

"Did you bring your shakes?" Ami asked.

Usagi groaned but nodded. Minako could tell she was getting annoyed with all the talk being focused on the pregnancy. It must be frustrating to have people forget you were more than an incubator. She wondered if people would act like that when she finally got pregnant.

They made their way to the building, talking about their lives. For a while they waited to one side, a bit away from the line of people. A new voice popped up asking if they were there for the casting call, and the girls followed the person inside the building and down a long hallway with colored lines on the floor. Minako wondered what they were for.

Usagi was told to wait out in the hallway, and though Minako and the others argued she would make them feel better, they were overruled. The rest of them filtered in through the room, where an elaborate fantasy stage was set up on one side.

(AN: Bit AU here)

There were several dozen girls, all of them around fourteen or fifteen waiting to read for parts in the television drama. The scenery didn't match the show they were auditioning for, and a feeling niggled at the base of Minako's spine. Something wasn't right here. She exchanged glances with the others, but they all seemed to shrug it off. They were excited and overwhelmed. But Minako had auditioned for both television and movie studios. This wasn't right.

Usagi could feel something. It was a familiar greasy feeling, like she had felt the night Naru had been attacked. The feeling was far too close, which meant the Senshi were in danger. She had to get to them.

::Mamoru, the girls need help. It's a Cardian, so I'm going in.:: She reached for the door and tried to open it, but it was locked and wouldn't budge. She looked carefully up and down the hallway. No people looking, no cameras to contend with.

::We're coming. Be careful.:: Mamoru sounded concerned but confidant.

She touched her brooch and whispered her henshin phrase, become Sailor Moon on the spot. Power rushed into her, her arms and legs becoming stronger, her chest seeming to fill with light, her whole body receiving an infusion of wellness. With a swift kick she broke through the door. Dozens of young girls lay on the floor. The other Senshi, unable to transform, were hidden behind a large piece of equipment as a Cardian that looked like a Minotaur attacked them.

Sailor Moon didn't speak. She didn't give a catch phrase or announce her own presence. Instead she tore her tiara off her head and powered it up with a whisper, throwing it in almost the same breath. The creature disappeared as soon as the tiara ripped through it, and the other girls looked at her gratefully from where they were hiding.

Noticing movement from the corner of her eye, Sailor Moon was forced to throw herself to the side. As she flew her belly glowed and she landed on a soft air mattress, mostly on her back, as she had twisted so the babies didn't come to harm. She saw a female... something with greenish skin and pink hair filled with blue highlights. The male had blue hair with pink highlights. She'd seen him when he'd sent the Cardian to attack Naru and the others.

Before she could so much as lift her hands to fight the Outer Senshi were standing in front of her, arms up. She scrambled off the mattress and ran for the girls. She gathered them and pretended to escort them out. One of the two... people?... was hollering for her to come back. He claimed they would only talk to her, which was disturbing. Yes, she was the leader, but that didn't mean she was the only Senshi who could make decisions.

She got the girls out and looked back over her shoulder. The female was staring at her strangely, but the male was busy looking at the Outer Senshi. Usagi felt the rise of power within her that said the other girls were transforming. She also knew Tuxedo Kamen and the Shitennou were close, though she could not see them.

::Where the hell are you?:: She asked in annoyance.

::Watching for anyone coming from behind.:: She could tell he was smiling when he continued. ::You did well with that Cardian.::

::They don't seem to affect me the same way...:: her mental voice cut out as the female appeared in front of her and reached an arm out to touch her. A flurry of attacks stopped the creature, but Sailor Moon could feel her energy being drained anyway. Her shield went up, pushing the female back several feet. The bright glow of her belly spoke of the power of the little ones she carried and there was a snap as a shot of thousands of butterflies obscured the vision of the two alien creatures.

Instantly Sailor Moon was in her own living room, and a moment later she let her henshin drop as the two older versions of her children flew out of their room, followed by Haruki. "You're okay momma!" they shouted in stereo. Takeo came out right after them, and gave her a shy smile. She nodded to him and caught the twins up against her.

Dinner was cooking. Makoto had taken over his kitchen, and Mamoru was extremely grateful. His mind was running a million miles a minute. His wife had been brilliant in that fight, but seeing her flying through the air... He shuddered. If something happened to her or the babies he wasn't sure he could survive it. If he was honest with himself, he didn't want her fighting at all until the babies were born. It wasn't entirely possible to avoid however. Some enemies needed her to take them out.

However, he could see very well that the fights with the Cardians were much better for her to face. He considered the ramifications, then pulled Usagi to the side to speak to her about it.

"Usako, come with me?"

She nodded and followed him into their bedroom. "Are you thinking the same thing I am?" Her voice was quiet.

"About the two of us heading the fight against the Cardians while the others focus on the droids?" He gave her a quizzical look and she nodded, almost excited.

"We need a few with us of course, and obviously someone has to protect the children, and it should be me whenever possible. But I think this is the perfect opportunity for Minako and Kunzite to reinforce their leadership roles. The Outer Senshi can work with us. Haruka will love that. We can also start training the children, for their own safety, and that includes little Hotaru."

"You amaze me." Mamoru said and kissed her.

An didn't know exactly what to make of it. She was full of energy. More than she could handle. She fed some to the Makaiju tree, and it perked up, showing pretty new blossoms. She had collected the energy from Sailor Moon before she had disappeared. Only one other time had the tree reacted in such a way to an energy, and that was the morning she'd argued with Usagi and stolen some of hers. Then too, she'd been bursting with energy and power.

Sailor Moon was pregnant. Usagi was pregnant. Twins in both cases. Both had blonde hair and blue eyes, a rarity in Japan. Both were short and too thin. It made sense. She wondered why she hadn't seen it before. And if Usagi was Sailor Moon, that made her much more dangerous. She had to keep Ail away from the girl until she knew for sure.

She had to find a way to talk to Usagi again. And she had to find a way to get her desperate claws out of Mamoru-san, because An wanted him for herself. He had plenty of energy too. She wondered how she could get him away from her.

January 28

Strategy sessions followed training and battle drills. Mamoru's apartment was rarely empty, and when it was, it meant that all of them were deeply entrenched in some sore of training. Now they brought the children with them to a field behind the Hikawah Shine, teaching them to immediately gather around Usagi, and how to use their own fledgling powers.

When the warriors weren't training, or planning, or doing school work, they were usually in the midst of battle. One followed another in a steady progression that overwhelmed and exhausted them. Usagi was doing better, and was able to handle Cardian battles with just Mamoru, but she could go nowhere near Droid battles. None of them understood the reasons the Droids affected her so badly, and they were terrified they were missing something vital.

It seemed, to Mamoru at least, that the sheer numbers of Droids and Cardians were meant to overwhelm them, to weaken and divide them. There was no break. Between battles he assured himself that Usagi was eating as much as possible, and he continuously changed her IV bags, because as she had to fight too, she was expending more energy. But the Cardians were like breathing for her to destroy. They were weak compared to the Droids, and she was able to wipe them away, most of the time, without even engaging them in an actual battle.

The Silver Crystal still took it's toll however, and she was often sleeping on a soft mattress provided by the babies in her belly. Many of her pregnancy symptoms had decreased now, but that one had continued. Only he and the children could pass the barrier that formed when she slept. And often he sent the children through to nap with her. The four of them would climb all over the bed, the twins snuggling up on either side of her, and they would nap, completely ignoring the sounds of the drills going on in the field.

January 29

The slimy feelings of a droid seemed doubled. It was late morning, and Usagi nearly vomited. Somehow there was a droid and also a Cardian. She pressed the call button on her communicator. "Two attacks," she whispered. Droid and Cardian." She could barely speak over the need to vomit. She gulped it back and turned to Ami, who was still with her. Ami nodded and took over with the communicator, pulling out her computer.

Usagi swallowed back the bile and sat up strait. Setsuna appeared in the living room, near her and she held out a hand for the blonde. "Lets go!" She seemed excited and Usagi had to gulp again. She hoped the other woman would be careful.

Ami smiled at her and nodded. "We can take care of the droid. You guys do what you have to."

While the others headed for the droids, Usagi, and Setsuna moved to intercept the Cardian. They found it in the park. 'Figures' thought Usagi. They'd often discussed the strange attacks in the park. During the time when the Dark Kingdom had been their enemy it had been nearly constant for several weeks. They'd suspected a portal in the park with accidental escapes of the Youma.

Transformed into Sailor Moon and Pluto, the two moved to intercept the creature. They took stock of the situation. The park was nearly empty, so the attack didn't make much sense. The Cardian looked like a pink humanoid lion. It's breath was incredibly powerful and when they appeared they watched as it knocked several people down before the thing attempted to steal their energy.

Pluto stepped forward and muttered, "Dead Scream," sending her attack at the creature. She began muttering under her breath as the Cardian dodged her attacks. "Why do they always scream their own name?" She said, shaking her head. "Farion. What sort of name is that anyway?"

Sailor Moon was momentarily distracted by the sight of Asanuma lying unconscious on the ground beneath a tree. She knew she couldn't lose focus however, and reached for her tiara. Charging it, she threw it just as the Cardian dodged Pluto's fourth attack. She willed it to follow the creature. Pluto held up her wrists and sent out her new cuffs to capture the creature.

A moment later the tiara beheaded the Cardian and it dissolved into dust. Usagi turned to the people who were beginning to pick themselves up off the ground. Asanuma wasn't moving and Usagi moved quickly to his side.

A young woman was staring at her and Pluto, and she realized that the two of them made an impressive sight, their fukus glittering in the sunlight. She motioned to her to come closer and asked her if she had a cell phone. She pulled one out of her pocket, and taking the hint, called an ambulance.

Sailor Moon and Pluto moved away and disappeared from sight. They both released their henshin and ran back over to Asanuma, who was still prone. They cleared people back, telling them they were his friends, and Setsuna asked if anyone had called for help. Usagi sent a message to Makoto and called out mentally to Mamoru. They promised to meet the three of them in the emergency room.

A few minutes later the two of them were riding with the young man to the hospital. He was beginning to wake and Usagi bent over him to reassure him that Makoto was going to come and see her. He was one of her best friends, and had been with her through many of her break ups and problems. She knew the other girl would do whatever it took to be there for him in return.

January 31

Usagi and Mamoru sat on the roof together in the moonlight. It had been a good day. No attacks by either Droid or Cardian. People were safe, and those affected by recent attacks were recovering according to the report from Ami's mother. Usagi's grades were also improving. She'd been feeling better all day, and had gained a pound according to the scale in the now completed Medical Bay across from their apartment.

She sighed in pleasure. Good days were so rare lately that she wanted to absorb every moment of it. Mamoru smiled over at her and sat up to detach her IV, pulling the needle from her arm. "You know," he said as he put a fresh Band-Aid over the tiny hole. "I used to be terrified of needles."

"I know." Usagi giggled.

Mamoru gave a fake growl and pretended to frown at her, catching her up into his arms and pulling her into his lap. "Are you teasing me?"

"Yup!" Usagi nodded wildly. She giggled when he tickled her.

A moment later his face was buried in her neck and he gently bit her and licked her skin. It had been a while since they'd had a free moment and she turned to him thankfully.

Unfortunately their enemies appeared to have a sixth sense about these things and she got the disgusting feeling of a Cardian.

"Crap!" she muttered.

Mamoru's head lifted. "What?"

"Stupid Cardian." She sighed. Lets go take care of it. Hopefully once it's gone we can pick up where we left off."

Mamoru nodded, huffing in frustration as the two of them stood and transformed. Usagi pressed the button for Pluto on her communicator. Setsuna and Haruki promised they would meet them at the virtual reality center. The grand opening was supposed to be the following day, and Usagi was glad she could sense the creatures, otherwise she was sure people would have gotten hurt.

She didn't even blink when they teleported, meeting the others in front of the building. They made their way inside and found the creature trying to attach itself to a virtual reality consol. Usagi frowned. Her father and brother were going to be at the grand opening.

She became Sailor Moon, and a moment later was surrounded by Pluto, Tuxedo Kamen, and the Sun Knight. They moved cautiously forward, the others flanking her. They didn't want to cause any damage to anything but the Cardian.

Sailor Moon lifted one hand to her brow and took down her tiara, charging it as she brought it down. "Moon Tiara Action," she whispered and sent it at the creature. In one smooth movement she had released the tiara, which looked more like a discus in this use, and seconds later was catching it silently as it returned, having destroyed it's target.

"Darn," muttered Pluto. "We need to be on the lookout for more attacks like this." She shuddered.

"I know what you mean. It's a worry." Sun Knight added.

"What concerns me most is that we know soon something is going to happen that will make us go into the future. What happens if there is another Cardian attack while we're gone? We can't afford to leave anyone behind." Sailor Moon whispered, looking around to make sure no one overheard.

"We can warn the department," Tuxedo Kamen said, and typed out a text to one of the officers they trusted.