What would happen if Queen Beryl had never *existed* ?
What if the Silver Mellennium had continued to prosper with peace
and harmony?  What would be of our beloved Prince and Princess
if the destiny they knew never exsisted?


                         'The Art of Love'
                   An Usagi and Mamoru Fanfiction
                         By: Sailor November
                  ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        As I walked down this familiar hall, I recognized things I 
have known since I was a small child; yet I also recognized things 
I never knew of before. There was a certain sweet aroma carried 
by the halls of the Moon Palace, my home.
        The floors were a glassy marble, with twists and smears 
of black and ivory clustered together.  The high ceiling was of 
the same marble, but it was hard to tell with the sunlight blinding 
my sight.  This warm light came from windows directly below the 
curved ceiling, which were stretched all the way down the enormous 
hall.
        Along the wall, paintings, portraits, and vases filled 
with vibrant flowers glowed with the warmth and love the palace 
contains.  Grandmother Serenity was supposed to have painted 
some of the tapestries along this hallway, but I did not know 
which ones.  The talent of art has run in our family generation 
after generation, but it seems to have stopped after my mother. 
She has done wonderful sculptures that are proudly displayed in 
the Palace gardens, but when it was my turn to create an 
expected masterpiece, a scribbled mess of clashing colors 
shocked mother and her court.  I guess it was a disappointment 
to them that I lacked the talent, but my daughter seems to 
continue the tradition.
        Let me introduce myself.  Princess Serena, daughter 
of Queen Serenity, heir to the throne of the Moon Kingdom.  
These are my titles, but you can just call me Serena.  I prefer 
to avoid formal greetings and introductions since I am forced 
to do so often.
        The Moon Kingdom has often been called the center 
of the Silver Millennium, for Ancient Moon Queens have worked 
hard for that reputation.  War has been avoided for centuries, 
and I intended to keep it that way in my reign.  Each of the rulers 
on the planets in this Solar System have one thing in common.  
A daughter.  Well, except for one planet: Earth.  So, each of 
these princesses have miraculous powers, granted to their 
families generations and generations back by one of my 
ancestors.  Each power was formulated for the specific planet, 
and used to defend and protect.
        These princesses fought as Sailor Scouts to defend the 
Moon Princess of their generation, which happened to be me.  
Since there was no princess on Earth for this generation, there 
could be no Sailor Earth, who was the most powerful of all the 
Scouts.  I hope that would not come to my disadvantage.
        So, for generation after generation, there has been 
peace.  No war, hardly any fighting, and planetary consensus.  
But a few years ago, a rumor emerged of a hidden battle plan 
on Earth.  The rumor spoke not of the Earth Kingdom Royal 
Family, but of peasants.  When I asked for details of the 
rumor, people refuse to tell me what they knew.  I was so 
innocent, so pure, I had no idea of the horrors that I would 
come to know about.  This hall I stand in now held sweet 
memories of my childhood, but it also held bitter memories of 
terror.  I did not know that it was possible for me to experience 
the things that I did.  And through all of the shock I saw, good 
things came from it.
        I'll tell you all what happened. It's strange; from what 
I lost, I gained much more.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° 


        I knew a little bit about the rumors of Earth.  I knew 
enough to make sense of what happened.  Apparently, peasants 
on earth decided to seize the alliance between the planets and 
disrupt the peace.  I heard that they wanted control.  But so 
many people loved our arranged alliance that they couldn't find 
enough followers to begin the revolt.  So what do you do when 
this happens?  Well they figured they'd *breed* the army they 
needed.
        But how they were going to go about it, I did not 
know. I had heard that they just selected random people and 
bred. 'No one is that cold, right?'  I thought. 
        I was walking down the same hall I am in now, only 
with the innocence of childhood still glowing from my face.  
There was a ball that night, I think.  Yes, I was going to go to 
my bedroom and plan what to wear!  Well, I never got there.  
I had spotted my Mother, Queen Serenity, talking to people I 
did not recognize.  I thought nothing of interrupting her.
        "Mother, there you are!"  I said cheerfully. "Hello 
dear, you look chipper!"  Mother said in her loving tone. The 
subjects she was talking to bowed and left our presence. "I am, 
but unfortunately I do not have a dress for the ball tonight."  I 
replied after we acknowledged their departure.
        "Oh, we can fix that."  Mother said sweetly.
        "Thank you, mother." But before we exchanged any 
other kind words, mother looked down at my clothing and 
scolded.  "Serena, why are you walking around in the palace 
with maiden's clothes on?  Please go put on the appropriate 
attire.  You know the rules, dear."
        'Rules, rules, rules,'  I thought with a frown.  'So many 
things robbing me of the freedom I dream of!' I looked down 
at the white skirt and blue blouse I had on.  I saw nothing 
wrong with my clothing, but Mother wanted me to dress like a 
princess all the time.
        "Yes mother,"  I sighed, deciding to again obey the 
orders I had received. That night I had to look my best for the 
Ball, for many princes were going be there.  I was going to be 
eighteen in two months, and in the Moon Kingdom, that was time 
for marriage.  Deep inside, I really wanted to marry for 
love.  Even though Mother was lucky and found her true love, 
I was most likely not to be that fortunate.  But, I had gotten 
used to that idea a long time ago, and to complain about it was 
childish.
        As I continued my trek down this hall, I looked at the 
interesting tapestries as I had been before.  Nonchalantly, I 
passed a dark doorway, thinking nothing of it.  My mind was 
on many different things, I could have never known of the 
event that was about to take place.
        As I walked by the door I did not see, a thick pair of 
hands grabbed me, covering my mouth and grasping my arms.  
Adrenaline and fear rushed through my body . . . the hands 
were unfamiliar and cold.  I couldn't see my captive . . . it was 
too dark.  He muffled my screams and slammed a cloth into 
my mouth.  I remember distinctively the horrible dirty taste 
that made me almost vomit.  I wanted to cry for help so 
desperately, I wanted to scream with all of the energy I had in 
me.  But I couldn't.  I could barely breathe.  I managed to 
choke and mumble through the dirty cloth shoved into my 
mouth.
        "Shut up.  Don't make me kill you, maiden,"  The 
man snapped at me with a harsh voice as he gripped me around 
the waist tighter.
        'Maiden?' I thought in shock.  'Oh no, my clothing!'  
My mother had been right, I desperately scolded myself, 
thinking it was all my fault I was being kidnapped.  Before I 
could think out the situation any further, I felt a blow to my 
head, and everything went black . . .


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        Slowly, I regained consciousness. My mind was in a 
blank state of fear . . . 
        darkness . . . 
        loneliness . . . 
        The dank room I was in was so strange . . . like a damp 
and moldy jail cell.  The smell slightly reminded me of the 
stench of the cloth that was shoved into my mouth earlier.  I 
slowly tried to stand, but I felt so weak!  'What just happened 
to me?'  I thought in panic.

        I remembered the dark door, the cold hands, the 
gruesome cloth shoved in my mouth, the blow to the head . . . 

        'This jail cell is where I have been taken'  I realized.  
'How long have I been passed out?'

        "Help . . . "  I whispered, not realizing that my voice 
was hoarse. "Hello?"  I said more loudly.
        "Someone, help . . . where am I?"  I yelled finally, 
gaining my voice back.

        I was alarmed by a sudden bang, which sounded like 
someone hitting something metal.
        "Hush, maiden."  I heard a stern voice call from 
outside what must have been a door.
        "Where am I?" I ask, but there was no answer.  "Who 
ARE you people? What are you DOING to me?  Please, let me 
go home!"  I cried.
        "Just shut up and . . . "  The man started, but was cut 
off by a deeper male voice.
        "Let me take care of this one, she's from the Moon.  
Back to your post, soldier,"  the voice announced.
        As metal door to the cell squeaked open, the light that 
I missed, but wasn't used to, blinded me.  "Young woman, let 
me explain,"  The man said with a fake kindness.
        As my eyes adjusted to the light, I finally got a view 
of the man. He was tall and husky, with some fancy armor on, 
but I couldn't place what planet the armor belonged to.  I could 
smell him from the corner of the room; I wanted to plug my 
nose but I was afraid I'd make him mad.  His bushy and 
tangled black mass of hair reached down to his shoulders.  His 
appearance was very disturbing to me, but I used my 
diplomatic skills and looked up to him, hiding the fear in my 
eyes.
        He squatted down next to me before he quietly 
explained. "Miss, you are on Earth, and you are here for a 
great purpose.  You are to be part of the creation of the new 
army.  Once I raise and prepare this army, the master will be 
able to take his right of ruling the galaxy.  I'm sure you've 
heard of us before.  You shall be proud to have a part in this 
glorious change of reign."

        'My god, I cannot be on Earth . . . the rumors cannot 
be true . . . '  I thought in horror.
        "What do I have to contribute to this?"  I gulped.
        "Why, your child."  
        "Child?  I have no child."  I said, blindly.
        "We'll just have to fix that problem, huh?" he 
chuckled.
        "WHAT?"  His words quickly registered in my head. 
Before I could say another word, the man stood and exited the 
cell.  He slammed the door behind him, causing the dreaded 
darkness to return.

        "My god, what are they going to do to me?"  I 
whispered aloud.
        I was left to ponder the upcoming events, without a 
meal or a comfortable bed.  I sat there on the stone floor, 
thoughts raging through my mind.  I was too scared to stand up 
and feel my surroundings. 'I can't believe this is happening to 
me . . . ' I thought. 'I can't believe what they are going to make 
me do'

        After I slowed my breathing down and gathered my 
composure, I decided to lie down on the damp stone.  I laid 
there on the floor, thoughts buzzing through my mind, and 
before I knew it, I fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        A loud sound outside of my cell suddenly woke me 
up.  The dizzy feeling began to lift, and I realized that it wasn't 
all some horrible nightmare.  As I groggily sat up, I could hear 
some yelling, but I couldn't really make it out.  'Probably more 
people being locked up in cells against their will, like me'

        Suddenly, the cell door burst open, to again reveal 
blinding light. A figure stood in the doorway, which looked to 
be the same man who had been in the cell to talk to me earlier. 
I knew his stench anywhere.
        But instead of coming into the cell, the man in the 
doorway tossed another figure into the room with me.  Before 
the man shut the door, he turned around and looked into our 
cell.  "You know what to do, boy.  If either of you resists, you 
will be KILLED at the spot."  With those being his last words, 
the door was slammed shut.  I couldn't tell who was in the 
room with me, but he at least didn't smell like the first man.
        "Oh god, what will I do?"  he whispered, breaking 
my chain of thought.
        "What is going on?"  I began as kindly as I could at 
the moment.
        "You don't know why you're here?  Oh god . . .  how 
can I explain this to you?"  the man said softly.
        "You are the first person who has been nice to me 
since these people brought me here."  I said. The man laughed 
lightly in return. "I wouldn't consider any of the people 
running this place 'nice'."
        "What *is* this place?"  I asked.
        The man sighed.  "The name of this place is the 
Drumaan headquarters.  Here they are . . . breeding warriors to 
be in this army they've dreamed up."  The man hesitated 
before he continued.  "That is what they have thrown us in this 
cell to do."
        "My god, you don't mean what I think you mean."
        "I do, and I'm sorry."

A silence ensued.

        "Oh . . . by the way, what is your name?"  The man 
asked kindly, breaking the silence.

        I hesitated.  "Serena.  And yours?"

        "Darien."


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        "I know you don't want to do this.  Neither do I.  But 
if you want to keep your life, there is no other way, Serena."  
Darien said, after talking with me for a while.
        "I can't believe this is happening.  Why did they pick me?"
        "I wish I knew.  I think they just see and grab . . . I 
was just walking in the market place when I was knocked out 
in a alley . . . and I awoke here.  That was my first time in the 
market place.  Ironic, ne?"

        Another silence ensued, and the hard fact of what was 
going to take place hit me.  And I could do nothing but go 
along with it.

        "Let's get this over with."  I sighed.
        I couldn't believe this was happening to me.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        Losing my virginity was hard and painful.  I had 
wanted to give it to the man I would marry, but now, that would 
not happen.  I was surprised at the pleasure I felt after the pain, 
though.  I was lucky that Darien knew what he was doing, and 
he was gentle.  Losing it that way could have left me traumatized, 
but something about Darien's kindness left me feeling 
reassured and calm.
        I don't know how, but through the short time we were 
together, we formed a kind of bond that was unfamiliar to me.  
We neither could pinpoint it, but we both knew it was there.

        While Darien and I rested, a conference was held at 
the palace. I wondered if anyone realized I had been gone all 
day . . .


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        "Queen Serenity, how do you plan to address the 
problem of a suitor for your daughter?" inquired a reporter.
        "I absolutely loathe these press conferences, Julius,"  
Queen Serenity whispered to her young public addresser.
        "I know you do, your highness.  That is what I am 
here for,"  he replied, smiling for the camera flashes.
        
        "The Queen has no comment on that question."

        "Your highness!"  

        "Your Majesty!" 

        "Queen Serenity!"

        Reporters shouted out their questions, waving their 
hands and jumping.
        "I feel a headache coming on, Julius,"  Queen 
Serenity said, covering her small hand over her face.
        "The Queen will answer one more question."  Julius 
announced into the microphone, pointing to a lucky reporter.
        The reporter smiled in conquest, and took a brief look 
at her paper.

        "Your highness, how do you plan to address the 
rumors of the Drumaan society?"

        A silence ensued in the hall the assembly gathered in.

        Queen Serenity was caught by surprise to this 
question, and quickly spoke herself into the microphone. "I 
have sent troops, joint with troops of Earth, to address the 
problem and find where this monstrosity is taking place."  
Queen Serenity said in a serious tone.

        "If the rumors are true, do you believe your small 
group of soldiers can stop them?"  the reporter snapped.
        Julius jumped into the situation promptly before 
Serenity could answer the last question that had obviously 
offended her.

        "There will be no further questions answered today. 
Thank you."
        Reporters shouted their disappointment as Queen 
Serenity and Julius exited the stage.

        "Thank you, Julius.  I didn't want to get that issue to 
be brought up anymore than it already is."  Queen Serenity 
whispered to him.  "By the way, where is Princess Serena?  I 
haven't seen her since this morning!"


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        All of the magic Darien and I had created was broken 
when the cell door burst open.  I quickly threw my clothes on 
in embarrassment.  But the guard only laughed, and 
acknowledged that the deed was done to someone not visible 
to us.
        The guard then walked into the room and grabbed the 
half dressed Darien, throwing him into the arms of another 
husky guard.

        "Take him to the next cell."

        "No . . . "  I whispered to myself.

        I felt like I was being torn apart as Darien was
dragged out. Why did I feel this way?  Was it because we had
bonded in this way?  These feelings were so alien to me.  As he 
exited my cell, I got a quick glimpse of his masculine body. His 
midnight black hair shined in the light as his gorgeous, deep 
blue eyes spoke a million words to me as we made eye contact.  
I could feel him saying goodbye.  But I didn't see him long 
enough to keep a picture memory of his face.
        Darien would just be taken to the next cell, and do the 
same thing. What was I talking about?  We had nothing special.  
Well, at least not to him.  Uhh, this is not fair.  I was beginning 
to feel jealous . . . But suddenly, after Darien was taken out of 
the cell, gunshots blasted through the halls outside my cell.  
Another couple refusing?  No, it couldn't be . . .  too many gun 
shots.  I could not help my curiosity . . .  I looked outside my 
cell door.

        What I saw would traumatize me for the rest of my life.  
Blood was splattered all over the hall . . . Troops from Earth and 
the Moon battle . . . Prison guards with guns and knives . . . 
death lingered in the air of the prison . . . 
          "Miss, get out of the way!"  A Earth Troopman 
shouted, startling me.  But before either of us could react, a 
prison guard came from behind him and stabbed him in the 
back.  "Nooo!!"  I shouted, extending my hand towards him.  
But despite my instinct to go and fight, I did what I was told, 
and ducked back into the cell.
          I ducked down and hide in the cell, praying to the gods 
that I would not be hurt.  But now, there was hope!  Maybe Mother 
noticed my absence!  The battle ensued for a short while, 
which seemed like an eternity to me.  The sounds and sights of 
the battle burned into my mind as I huddled inside my cell, safe 
from the danger in the hall.  I wondered if Darien was safe . . . 

        Suddenly, a shadow disrupts the light flowing into my 
room. Was I hallucinating?  Did a Moon Kingdom Soldier 
stand in front of me?  Did my soldiers just save me from the 
dank society I was kept a prisoner to?  My saviors?

        I was free!  Wait . . . where was Darien?  No! I lost him . . .   


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        It was all over.  The Earth and Moon troops took over 
the Drumaan camp, freeing the civilians used for breeding.  I 
was then freed from the camp, and taken home.  But still, what 
had been done was done . . . .

        As Mother, Queen Serenity, sat on her throne, hearing 
the news from her advisors, she was so proud that she showed 
that horrible reporter wrong. She smiled at the thought.  But 
her smile faded when a Moon Kingdom soldier rushed my 
disheveled self up to Mother.

        "Your highness, Princess Serena was found at the 
camp.   She is okay, just a few bruises and cuts."

        "OH MY GOD!"  Queen Serenity cried, grabbing a 
hold of me in fear of the worst. "SERENA, my BABY . . . "

        "Mom, I'm okay."  I weakly whispered.
        "Oh my gods, what did they do to you?"  the Queen 
cried.
        "I . . . don't remember too much."  I lied.
        "They didn't impregnate you, darling, did they?"
I didn't answer, for I fell asleep in Mother's arms.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        A few weeks later, the doctor had confirmed it.  I, 
Queen Serenity's darling, young daughter, was pregnant.  Long 
nights of worry showed on Mother's face.  The sorrow vibrated 
from her eyes as the news was presented.

        "Oh my god, what am I to do?  Should I let her have 
the baby, Julius?"  Queen Serenity asked her public advisor 
and close friend.
        Julius weakly smiled and grasped her hand. "What 
else could you do, Serenity?"
        The doctor waited a few seconds for Mother to think, 
and then spoke.  "Princess Serena says she wants to keep it."

          Mother thought for a minute, and looked at Julius 
for support.  "If only my husband were here today to help me 
through this,"  Mother said sadly.
          "Your highness, I will try my best and give you the 
support he would have."
          Mother smiled, thanking Julius with her eyes.  Julius 
would always be to her the son she never had.  With a squeeze 
to Julius' hand, Mother gave her final decision.

        "Then I guess Serena will get her wish."


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        During my nine months of pregnancy, my family and 
friends gave me so much support.  Mother was always there 
for me, guiding me through the miracle of motherhood.  But the 
news of the scandal rushed quickly throughout the kingdom, 
despite my mother's desperate attempt of secrecy.  The young, 
unmarried princess was pregnant with some peasant's baby . . . 
and not even the princess herself was sure who he was.
        My best friend Princess Raye and Julius were there 
for me just as much as my mother was.  I would not survived 
the pain if it was not for them.
        I don't know if it was just me, but I always sensed 
something between Raye and Julius.  They were the same age, 
and they have known each other since we were all children.  
I'll never forget the night I was sitting by the pond, watching 
the stars, when I overheard their voices. Being the curious 
person I was, I snuck close to where they were sitting,
and listened in on their conversation.

        "I still can't believe our Serena is actually pregnant,"  
Raye said as she looked up into the night sky. I noticed that they 
were sitting close on a marble bench next to the rose bushes 
Mother planted.
        "I know.  I didn't think this would come until a lot 
later," Julius said quietly.
        Raye sighed, and answered, "Yeah . . . "
        "But you've been such a great best friend for her, 
Raye.  I don't think she'd be able to do this without you,"  
Julius said sweetly.
        Raye smiled, and replied, "So have you, Julius.  
You're like a big brother to her."
        "Yeah, I guess so."
        They looked into each other's eyes for a white, gazing 
into the mysteries of each other, until they began to lean in to 
kiss . . . but before their lips could touch, Mother's voice 
called out from near by, asking for Julius.  Julius quickly 
moved away from Raye and rose to find Queen Serenity.
        But I don't think anything like that happened again.  
Or at least I haven't *seen* anything happen.  Before I had the 
baby, unfortunately, Raye had to go home to Mars to attend 
family business.  I was disappointed when Julius could not 
attend her departure.

        And then, after nine months of pain and hard work, 
my baby was delivered.  It was an adorable little girl with a 
small patch of pink hair on top of her little head.  Nine 
pounds, seven ounces. Mother and I were surprised at the 
color of the baby's hair.  I was sure Darien's hair couldn't have 
been pink!  The darling little baby had soft light skin with red 
eyes.  She looked like a little bunny!  Well, that is what we 
called her.  Usagi. 
        Little Usagi turned out to be an excellent artist, even 
at the age of two.  Usagi and her grandmother would finger 
paint together, posting the paintings along the halls among the 
tapestries.  I have to admit, I was a bit jealous of my daughter's 
talent, but I was pleased that the tradition I had almost broken 
was passed on.

        When Queen Serenity was busy one day, I had tried to paint 
a bunny rabbit along with my daughter.  But when we finished 
and the nanny compared the two paintings, she couldn't help 
but laugh at how much better Usagi's looked compared to 
mine.  Oh well, my talents *must* be somewhere else . . . 


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        "Princess Serena!"  Raye called as she ran towards me.
        "Hey Mars!  It's been forever!"  I said, giving my old 
friend a hug.
        "I can't believe it's been almost two years!" 
        "Tell me about it!"
        "Oh!  And look at little Usagi!  Oh she's so cute.  Tell 
me, Usagi, how old are you now?"  Princess Mars said in a 
tone only used on small children.
        "Thwee!"  My little Usagi said.
        "Awww!  You're so old now!"  Mars said back sweetly.
        "Oh, and who is this?"  I say, gesturing towards the 
handsome man that stood behind Princess Mars.
        "Oh!  Princess Serena, meet Prince Darien of Earth . . . 
my FIANCEE!!!!!"
        "Oh my GOSH!"  I squealed, overjoyed at my best 
friend's fortune. "What about Julius, huh, Raye?"  I said as I 
nudged her with my elbow, quietly enough so Prince Darien 
couldn't hear.  
        "Er . . . what *about* Julius?" Raye said too innocently.

        We continued to go on about the ring and the 
arrangements, when suddenly, I looked up at Prince Darien.
        Darien, what a wonderful name . . . 
        "How could I be so rude?"  I say sweetly to Prince 
Darien.  "My name is Princess Serena, and this is my daughter 
Usagi."
        "Nice to meet you,"  Prince Darien said warmly.
        I'm a open person.  I just couldn't hold it in any longer!
        "YOU'RE GETTING MARRIED!"  I squealed, 
giving Prince Darien a big bear hug.
        "Thank . . . you,"  Prince Darien manages to choke 
out as he was being squeezed by me.
        My little Usagi giggled and grabbed onto Prince 
Darien's leg, copying her mommy.

        Something was wrong, yet familiar.

        Where did this feeling come from?

        Deja vu.

        Was it Prince Darien?
        Or was it seeing Princess Mars again?

        I didn't know.

        Maybe I could talk to Mars about it later tonight.

        But suddenly, my little Usagi began to loosen her 
grip and closed her eyes.  I thought she might be tired, but when 
she fell to the floor, fear rushed through my body.  Motherly 
instincts are so strong; I knew this from so much experience.

        "USAGI?"  I screamed in fear.

        I quickly let go of Prince Darien and picked up my 
sweet child, cradling her limp body in my arms.  Princess Mars 
and Prince Darien kneeled beside me with worried looks on their 
faces, but I barely noticed.
        Usagi, like all other Moon Kingdom family descendants, 
has a golden crescent moon on her forehead.  But the crescent 
moon began to fade from her forehead . . . 
        "Oh, my baby, what's wrong?"  I cried.
        When the crescent moon finally faded, another symbol 
appeared.
        It was the symbol of Earth.

        "The symbol of Earth . . . "  Prince Darien whispered, 
gently touching his hand to Usagi's forehead.
        "I don't understand, what is happening Serena?"  
Mars asked, worried.
        Prince Darien of Earth looked into my eyes, and I looked 
into his.  I began to feel a strong . . . something . . . I just 
didn't know what it was. But it was familiar.  I have felt it before.
        "Serena?"  He whispered.
        "Darien . . . "  I whispered back.
        "Do you think . . . Is Usagi . . . ."  He managed to 
choke out.
        "I think she's yours." 


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        So much has happened in this past month.  Darien has 
developed a *very*  strong bond with Usagi, our daughter.  The 
sight of them together warmed my heart so greatly.  I was right 
about Darien not having pink hair; we decided she'd probably 
grow out of it when she got older.  But even though everything 
was turning out great for Usagi, Darien, and I, one big thing r
emains.  My best friend, Raye.  Darien's fiancee . . . 


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


          "I can't believe this.  Please, Serena, tell me this is 
all a joke."  Raye whispered as she sat on her bed, covering her 
face with her hands.
          "I'm sorry, Raye, but it's the truth.  We didn't mean 
for it to happen.  I didn't mean for it to be him.  We were 
forced."  I said, trying to reason with Raye.
          "Forced . . . "  Raye whispered as she began to lose 
control.
        "Please, forgive us, Raye."  I begged.  I couldn't 
believe my best friend was taking it this way . . .  but I guess 
she did love him.
        "I can't believe you did this to me!  Prince Darien was 
MY fiancee! How *dare* you steal him from me!"  Raye 
screamed, surprising me.
          "Raye, I'm so sorry!  Please, please forgive me!  
Raye, you are my *best* friend, I don't know what I'd do 
without you--"  I pleaded, but I was again cut off by Raye.
          "I don't think so, Serena.  We are not friends anymore.  
Please, just leave me ALONE!" 
        "RAYE!  Wait . . . "  I cried as Raye stormed out of 
the door.
        What am I going to do?


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        Raye wandered down the halls, her mind fogged with 
confused emotion, looking for Prince Darien.  Through her 
blurred vision, she saw a familiar form headed towards her.
        "Julius!  Have you seen Prince Darien?"
        Julius looked at the disheveled form of Raye and smiled.
        "Raye . . . oh, um, yes, Prince Darien is with Usagi in 
her play room."
        "Thank you very much, Julius."  Raye managed a smile.
        "You're welcome, Raye,"  Julius whispered as he 
watched Raye continue down the hall.  "What ever happened 
to us?"  Julius whispered.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        After thinking for a long time, I decided that I should 
go find Raye.  She was taking it so hard . . . It broke my heart 
so see my best friend in this state.  Still, I didn't know what to 
do.  Should I talk to her? Should I leave her alone?  I just wasn't
sure . . . but here goes.  Might as well try.

        I followed the path I believe she took.  She probably went
 to see Darien, who (last time I saw) was with Usagi in the playroom.

        Oh Raye, what is going to happen?  Your fiancee was 
the father of my baby . . . I felt like just falling here and 
crying.  But no.  I was strong. I will be the future queen of the 
Moon Kingdom, I could handle this minor situation.  Wait.  
Minor situation?  This was a disaster!  Oh Raye, I'm coming!  
Please, hold on a bit longer.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        As I approached Usagi's nursery, I saw Raye standing in 
the doorway. She must've been talking to Darien.  I walked close 
enough to hear, but not close enough to intrude.

        "Darien?"  Raye finally whispered.
        "Oh, hey Raye."  Darien greeted her cheerfully. Being 
with Usagi brings the best out of Darien.  He was definitely a 
natural when it came to being a good father.  
        "I think we need to talk, Darien.  We need to talk about
all of this. Us, Usagi, . . . Serena . . . "  Raye said solemnly.
        "Yes, we--"  Darien began, but was cut off by Usagi.
        "Daddy, Daddy, Daddy!  Look at what I made!"
        "Sweetheart, please, I need to talk to Princess Raye 
for a while."
        Raye frowned lightly at the sight of Usagi.
        "Would you like to talk somewhere else?"  Raye said, 
gesturing towards Usagi.
        "Yeah, I think that'd be a good idea."

        I decided that it was time I joined the conversation.  I 
walked towards Raye and the nursery, and gently put my hand 
on Raye's shoulder as I peeked over her to see Prince Darien.

        "Hey Serena!"  Darien said as he noticed me.
        "Serena, I told you, Leave me *alone*!"  Raye said coldly.
        "What?  Raye, *please*, listen to me!  I want to talk this out!"
        "Mommy!"  Usagi screamed, running to grasp my leg.  
She was just so adorable, even in horrible situations like this.  
She always brought a smile to my face.
        "Dear, not now.  Go find Grandma while I talk with 
Daddy and Princess Raye."  I gently told Usagi.
        "Hai, mother."  Usagi said with courtesy as she ran 
off towards to find my mother.
        "Raye, Darien, it's time we discussed this whole 
thing.  We've avoided it for a month."  I said maturely.
        "I agree."  Darien said as he looked into my eyes.  A 
girl could drown in his gorgeous eyes . . . I had already 
drowned deeply.  I still felt the strange bond I felt way back 
when we were trapped in the cell together. I'm sure he still 
felt it too.  "I think it's time we meet with Queen Serenity."


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        "Prince Darien, you and Princess Serena have a 
*child* together. You need to take responsibility, and be there 
for Usagi."  Mother stated to Darien.
        "I do agree, your highness, but he is engaged to 
Princess Mars.  We cannot back out of that promise, no 
matter what I want or think."  Darien's mother, Queen Aurora 
said wisely. Raye and I remained silent, unknowing of what to say.
        "That is true, dear, but even though Darien and 
Princess Raye are engaged, I believe that because he now 
fathers the future heir to the throne of the Moon Kingdom, he 
needs to be there and raise her like a responsible father should.  
The promise of parenthood is greater than the promise brought 
by betrothal."  Darien's father, King James, stated.
        "Well, those are wise words, your highness."  Mother said.
        "But your highness!"  Princess Mars burst out to the 
King of Earth.
        "I am sorry, dear, but . . . "
        "You don't understand,"  Raye spat.  "I LOVE HIM!"
        I could tell Darien was shocked . . . but I still 
remained silent.  "You . . . love him?"  Darien's mother said, 
shocked.
        The room was silent for a while.
        "Darien, James, please, I need a word with you."  
Darien's mother spoke.  Darien and James walked over to 
Aurora and they spoke quietly enough that the rest of the court 
could not hear them . . . but I still heard.
        "Darien, I had no idea she loved you!"  Darien's 
father whispered.
        "Father, neither did I . . . "
        "Well, what are we to do?  I guess . . . Well, how do 
you feel about her?  I don't want to break her heart . . . "  
Queen Aurora said.
        "I . . .  uh . . . "
        "Darien, I believe it would be best if you married who 
you are engaged to.  I don't want rumors of me not staying true 
to my promises going around."
        "Well . . . "
        "Then it is final."  The Queen of Earth spoke up so 
the whole court could hear her.
        "I have made my decision.  We *did* betroth Prince 
Darien to Princess Raye, so therefore it would be best to stick 
to what has been planned."

        My heart broke then and there.

        "Well, if that is your choice . . . But I still believe that 
Prince Darien *is* responsible for Usagi . . . at least until 
Princess Serena marries."  Mother said.
        I saw Raye smiling, so I smiled back . . . but I didn't 
feel so well inside.  I guess I have to let go of him . . .  I guess 
there was never anything between us anyway.  At least my best 
friend would be happy.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        That night, Darien and I sat in silence as we tucked 
Usagi into bed. We used to enjoy each other's company so 
much, but now, nothing would ever be the same.  I was 
beginning to develop serious feelings for Darien, and having 
him taken away from me hurt more that I could have ever 
imagined.

        "Goodnight, Usagi.  Sweet dreams."  I whispered, 
breaking the silence.
        "Night sweetie."  Darien said as he gently rubbed the 
back of his hand on her cheek.
        "She's so beautiful . . . so innocent . . . it warms my 
heart to see her lie there.  I am so grateful to God that she has 
been given to me . . . I see her as a big blessing in my life."  
Darien whispered.
        I was about to agree, but when I looked up at Darien, 
his warm blue eyes stared straight back at me, causing feelings 
to stir that I had never felt with any other man before.  I 
couldn't speak; I just stared right back at him.
        I thought Darien was about to speak, but instead, he 
held it in, and gently rubbed his hand against my cheek as he 
had done with Usagi.  Before I could speak a word, Darien 
leaned towards and kissed me deeply; with the same passion 
he had shown me the night we met.
        Unknowingly, I accepted the kiss, and returned it in 
full.  Where did all of that emotion come from?  I really *did* 
have feelings for him . . . and I was just starting to realize it.
        Darien released, but remained staring into my eyes.
        "We can't . . . you and Raye . . . "  I whispered.
        "Serena, I . . . " Darien whispered back.  "I care for 
*you*, not Raye."  I didn't know how to respond.
        "I don't know what to do about our engagement . . . "
        "Darien,"  I blurted out,  "I love you." I can't believe 
I said that!  Whoa, It just came out. But you know, I think I 
*did* mean it.
        "I . . . "  Darien hesitated.  "I . . . I love y . . . No . . . I 
can't do this!  I can't care for you!  I'm engaged to Raye, and 
here we are together, and . . . "  Darien sobbed.
        He looked so helpless, I could do nothing but hug him.
        Our embrace was tight.  Darien needed assurance, 
and I was there for him.
        "Thank you Serena.  If we can't be together, I know 
we'll be best friends."
        "Best friends . . . " I whispered back, wishing it didn't 
have to be just that.


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        The next evening, a small dinner was held for the 
three families of the Moon, Earth, and Mars.  Any newcomer 
could easily tell there was friction, but we all tried to ignore it.  
The Queen and King of Earth hosted the dinner, sitting 
together at the end.  Prince Darien and Princess Raye sat 
together on the other end, while Mother, Julius, Usagi, and I
sat on one side, with Raye's mother, father, and brother on 
the other.
        Little Usagi was making a horrible mess all over her 
highchair, which left me a little embarrassed.  But the rest of 
the party just laughed and carried on a pleasant but formal 
conversation as I tried to control little Hurricane Usagi.
        But throughout the whole dinner, I kept noticing 
Julius staring at Raye.  Did Julius still have a crush on Raye?!?  
I wondered . . . But Julius wasn't the only one staring.  Darien 
and I kept matching gazes.  But each time, I quickly turned my 
head so no one would notice.  I could not look at his deep blue 
eyes without returning a loving glance; and I could not risk 
being seen.  But despite my caution, Raye saw.  She knew.  
She kept a solid stare at me most of the night.  Not only did 
Raye catch the glances, but Mother did too.  She knew just as 
well as Raye that something was going on.  And now, I didn't 
know what to do.


        ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        That night, I turned to the only person I knew I could 
talk to. Julius.  He was like a brother to me, and I knew he 
would understand. We sat together in the rose garden on a 
marble bench, facing the moon. I always came here when 
I needed time to think.

        "So you see, Julius, I really do care for him."  I 
finished after explaining my story.
        "Serena, it sounds to me like it's more than that."
        "I . . . I . . . I love him.  Yes, . . . I really do."
        "There has got to be a way to fix this.  Maybe you 
should tell your mother."
        "But what about Raye?  She loves him, she said it 
herself."
        "Oh . . . "  Julius said, looking down.
        "Julius, is there something you're not telling me?  Do 
you have . . . feelings for Raye?"
        Julius jerked up and quickly, too quickly, spat, 
"Uh . . . no! Not the Princess."
        "Mmm hmm," I said, with a smirk. "Julius, you can 
tell me.  If it is a secret, it is safe with me."
        "Well . . . okay . . . I guess I kind of do . . . "
        "Really?" I said excitedly.  "Perfect!  Now all we 
have to do is switch things so we're with the *right* person."
        "You think there is a way?"
        "There has to be.  Are you and Raye close?"
        "Well, not really close . . . not like we used to be."
        "Still friends, right?"  I inquired.
        "Yes, definitely friends.  Actually . . . can you 
keep something else a secret?"
        "You bet!"
        "Well, back when you were pregnant with Usagi, and 
before Mars left the Moon for home . . .  Princess Raye and I 
kissed."
        "NO!  You're kidding!"  I squealed happily, 
pretending I didn't know.
        "Well . . . it didn't really mean anything . . . well, at 
least not to her."
        "How do you know that?!?  It sounds to me like it has 
developed into more than that!"
        Julius laughed.  "Well, I guess that's true."
        "So now I've got to think of a way to get Raye to 
realize your feelings."
        "Whoa, she's engaged . . . she'd never like me again."
        "I wouldn't say that . . . "  I smirked, with plans 
evolving in my head. Somehow, I would get Raye and Julius 
together.  That was the only way Darien and I could ever be 
together.


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        The wedding was set for two weeks from that day.  
Just two weeks to get Raye to realize who really loves her 
more.  Two weeks to work things out. Impossible, huh?  Well 
I'd find a way. I loved Prince Darien too much to just let him 
marry off.
        I figured that it would be impossible to talk Raye into 
breaking off the engagement myself.  They only way, I figured, 
to get Raye to realize Julius' feelings, was to use Julius 
himself. Julius was a rather shy person, so it would take some 
doing of my part to get my plan to work.  The first step, was to 
get Julius and Raye alone . . . 


         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °


        The PERFECT situation evolved one night when 
Prince Darien left with his family to visit the Neptune 
Kingdom.
        Why didn't I think of it sooner? Darien is gone, now I 
can get Julius and Raye to get to know each other again!  Fate 
has got to take its place!


Not completed, More to come . . . 

         ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °




Here is how the story will end...


   
      Princess Serena had not broken the tradition of Art among the Moon
Kingdom Royal Family.   Princess Serena had found the Art she had within
her:  The Art of Love.


The End





REST OF THE STORY PLOT OVERLINE:

Darien visits another planet with his family.
Julius and Raye are sent (some of serena's doing) to be in charge of 
watching
Chibiusa while Serena attends something with her mother or something to get
them together.
Cute stuff happens
Raye and Julius begin to fal in love
Darien comes back
The wedding is set, and Serena goes frantic because her plan didn't work.
Raye didn't call off the wedding
Darien and serena secretly get together two nights before the wedding,
and a romantic last time together scene occurs.
The wedding takes place two days later, and it's a GRAND ceremony.  Serena
is one of the brides maids. Julius is up in front along side of queen 
serenity
ceremoney goes, darien reluctantly said I do.  then the priest asks Raye,
and she can't answer.  She looks over at julius, tehn darien, then the 
priest,
then bursts out in tears and runs down the isle back to her dressing room.
the crowd gasps, darien is left standing there feeling stupid.
Serena runs after Raye, and then darien follows. then julius
serena comforts raye, the door is closed.   Darien knocks and asks raye
 whatis wrong.  Raye says she is sorry through sobbs, but won't tell him
why.  Julius knocks himself and asks raye if she's okay.  Raye is happy to
hear his voice, and then confides in serena whats wrong.  
She tells serena that she doesn't want to marry darin, she's in love with
julius!
Serena is so shocked  and happy her plan worked.
She confides in Raye that she loves darien
more to come



° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °
Author: Sailor November
E-Mail: birkrules@california.com
About Me: http://members.tripod.com/~snovember/Audrey/
Alternative E-mail: mamogroupie@animefan.org
WebPage: The Usagi and Mamoru Fanfiction Archive
URL: http://members.tripod.com/~usamamo

Rated PG-13, maybe even R