That Special Magic 72

That Special Magic
-by: the Yarnspinner-
the_yarnspinner@yahoo.com
http://strands-of-moonlight.my3gb.com
-or- http://strands-of-moonlight.6te.net
A Sekkushiaru Roman
featuring characters from the anime "Sailor Moon"

> Chapter 72 - Details and Selections <
       "New Year's Day?" Hirano Masahiko asked, squinting through his thick glasses.
       "That's right, Grandfather," Rei confirmed.
       "Yes, sir," Mamoru said, as they all sat in the priest's small office. "Usagi and I will be filing our license application in advance..."
       "And it will become valid just after midnight on New Year's Day," the old priest completed. "I understand. I've blessed the marriages of other couples who have done the same."
       'Your attorney was right!' Usagi exclaimed to Mamoru through their link. 'It really will work!'
       "Usagi and Mamoru-san want a Shinto service, Grandfather," Rei said. "They don't want to do the pseudo-Christian style service that is so popular these days."
       Masahiko nodded in understanding. "I understand. And I recognize that you want the blessing of the gods right at the start of your married life..." He smiled. "I've always said this is one area where many of the Western nations are more enlightened."
       "What do you mean?" Rei asked.
       "Well, granddaughter, if I was priest of a Shinto shrine in Hawaii or California, for example, the laws there would allow me to both solemnize the marriage, and complete the license." Masahiko sighed. "We wouldn't have this difficulty."
       Mamoru nodded. "But is it possible for New Year's Day, sir?"
       The priest opened a calendar. "Let me see... Yes." He looked up at Mamoru and Usagi. "I can perform the service at 4:00pm. The grounds will likely still be rather crowded when you and your guests arrive, but as long as you don't mind that, I can perform the service."
       "Oh, thank you so much!" Usagi exclaimed excitedly. "That is so wonderful."
       "Thank you, sir," Mamoru said with a bow.
       "You are most welcome," Masahiko said with a smile. "It is always a joy to bless a young couple in marriage." His expression grew more serious. "I will need to meet with both of you to determine the language of the wedding vows. I can offer a prepared text, but you may want to personalize it."
       Mamoru nodded.
       "Also, I will need to go over the service with you, so you will know what you are expected to do."
       "Certainly," Mamoru acknowledged.
       Just then, a bell rang. Masahiko sighed. "Excuse me, please. It is a busy time," he said, rising to his feet. "I am supposed to have a junior priest joining me." The others stood with him.
       "You're not thinking of retiring, are you, Grandfather?" Rei asked.
       "Oh, no," Masahiko chuckled. "This man has just become a priest and is in need of experience. I used to take them in in the past, and thought it was time to resume that." He paused for a moment. "But now, granddaughter, would you please show your friends where we conduct marriage services, and perhaps give them a brief outline of the service?"
       "Certainly," Rei agreed.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       Rei led Mamoru and Usagi outside, where Atana and Kara were waiting. Kara, at her insistence, was once again dressed in Rei's old miko robes. They walked to a large sliding door, which Rei drew open. Inside was a relatively spacious room with dark woodwork, and a second set of screens at the far end. They removed their shoes. Rei switched on the lights, which were carefully concealed among the supporting beams of the ceiling. She crossed the room and drew open the screens, revealing a near duplicate of the main shrine outside.
       "Very nice," Atana commented.
       "Is it normal for there to be two shrines, Rei-chan?" Mamoru asked.
       "Actually, we have three here," she answered. "Grandfather has a private one in the rear grounds. And then of course he has several small portable shrines, which fold up to about the size of a large briefcase. He takes one of those with him when he goes to call on people at their home or in hospital."
       "So, this is where the wedding service is held?" Usagi asked.
       "Yes," Rei confirmed. "I've only assisted at one, but the general format is always the same."
       "A matter of ancient tradition," Atana said with a smirk.
       Rei scowled at him. "Yes. Ancient. All the way back to the year 1900."
       "1900?" Mamoru asked.
       "That's right," Rei said. "The current Shinto wedding service originates from the marriage of the future Emperor Taisho, when he was still crown prince of course."
       "Let's see... Taisho... That was the father of Hirohito, Emperor Showa?" Atana asked.
       "That's correct," Rei said. "Before that, marriage services were based entirely on local custom. The Emperor Meiji, father of the Emperor Taisho, had been impressed by the ceremony of European royal weddings, and felt that Japan needed a comparable ceremony of its own." She glanced at the guide sheet her grandfather had prepared. "The bride and the groom first go to a waiting room, where you will sign your names to the wedding vows scroll. Grandfather has a very talented calligrapher prepare it, and you get to keep it as a memento after the service."
       "That's great," Usagi said.
       Rei nodded. "Mamoru-san will then keep it with him during the service. At the same time you sign the wedding vows, you will also sign the Temple's record of weddings." She checked her guide sheet again. "The service usually begins outside, where the families line up behind the bride and groom. The priest leads them through a purification ritual. A small fountain is set up for that purpose. Everyone then processes here." She moved to the center of the room. "The bride and groom sit right here, at a table, facing the shrine. Grandfather, and his assistant, if there is one, will stand pretty much in front of you to read the prayers and perform the blessings. You probably won't understand most of it. Even though the form of the service only dates to 1900, the prayers are all in ancient Japanese, not the modern language."
       Usagi rolled her eyes. "How do we know what to do?"
       "You will have a service booklet," Rei said. She then motioned to either side. "The relatives will sit on the sides, facing the bride and groom. The groom's family sits on one side, and the bride's on the other. Traditionally, the wedding service is restricted to just the immediate family, but that custom has been falling out of favor in recent years, as brides and grooms also invite particularly close friends."
       "That's good," Mamoru said. "I don't have any relatives, and have asked my trustee and his wife to attend as a surrogate family."
       Rei nodded. "Next, Grandfather, or perhaps his assistant priest, will perform another purification ritual, waving an onusa over everyone present. After that, Grandfather will step up to the shrine and perform the key part of the liturgy, announcing your names to the gods and that you have come to be blessed in marriage."
       "That is followed by the sharing of sake," Rei continued. "Three cups will be placed on the table in front of you, and you each take three sips from each cup."
       Usagi cringed. "I've only had straight sake a couple of times, and I didn't really care for it."
       "Then take very small sips," Rei said. "The quantity doesn't really matter."
       "You'll do fine, Usako," Mamoru said softly.
       Rei checked her guide again, then gestured toward the shrine. "After the sake ritual, you will move up here to the inner room, directly in front of the shrine, where you will read your wedding vows together. You will then offer tamagushi, evergreen branches with white prayer papers tied to them, to the gods of the shrine. Next you return to the table here, face each other, and exchange rings. That is originally a Western custom, but has now become entirely standard in just about all Japanese weddings."
       "Lastly, everyone stands and sips sake together, symbolizing the joining of the two families," Rei said. "And then Grandfather will close the service with a final prayer. Everyone then bows to the shrine and the bride and groom lead them out."
       Usagi grinned at Mamoru. "This will be so great."
       "Yes, it will," Mamoru agreed.
       Atana took Rei's hand and gently squeezed it as they walked out of the room.
       Usagi noticed the gesture. 'Too bad they can't get married too,' she said to Mamoru through their link.
       'Don't push it, Usako,' he replied. 'It's not as easy for them as for us.'

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       Masahiko Hirano moved along the walkway, pausing as he saw Rei with Atana and Kara. Yet again, he was struck by how much Kara resembled Rei, the most significant difference being Kara's darker skin. As he watched them, he could sense the apparent timelessness that seemed to hang around Atana, and was surprised to detect a very similar sensation from Kara. Shaking his head, he turned away and walked to the rear, into the private grounds.
       "Hello, father," a voice called softly.
       He turned. "Rika. I wasn't expecting to see you again," he said. He thought for a moment. "I suppose you are responsible for Hino Tadamichi's breakdown?"
       "Me, father? However could you suggest such a thing?" Rika asked.
       "Because I still know my daughter," the old priest chuckled.
       Rei's mother nodded slowly. "Very well... Yes, I did have something to do with that," she admitted. "But it was only to protect Rei."
       "I'm not complaining," Masahiko said, continuing to walk slowly through the private grounds.
       She moved quietly alongside him.
       Masahiko glanced over at the spirit of his late daughter. "Tell me... how is it possible that young Kara-chan truly is Rei's daughter?"
       Rika looked at her father in surprise.
       "Don't bother denying it, please," Masahiko said. "There is a great difference between eccentricity and senility, daughter. And my senses are still reasonably good, thank you."
       Rika sighed, then nodded. "You will find it difficult to believe, but Kara-chan is Rei's daughter from a previous life."
       "How is that possible?" Masahiko asked. "She would have to have a different mother in this life."
       Rika shook her head. "That is the part that you will find hardest to believe," she said. "Atana-san and Kara-chan have come forward in time to find Rei in her new life."
       "How...?" Masahiko paused, considering the sensation of timelessness around Atana. "So that explains it," he muttered.
       "You sensed something, didn't you?"
       He nodded. "A feeling of timelessness emanates from him."
       She smiled. "I'd say your senses are more than just 'reasonably good', father."
       He scowled. "So... what brings you here? Surely not just to talk."
       Rika turned to face him, remaining silent.
       He looked up at her, then shook his head. "You want to allow them to be married."
       "Shouldn't I?" she asked. "It's for the good of all three of them. And Rei's friend is about to get married."
       He shook his head again. "It's not that simple, daughter. Atana-san is not Japanese."
       "Oh, come now, father! You can't tell me you have anything against her marrying a foreigner."
       "Of course not," he answered sternly. "But Atana-san is an American, daughter... and the fact remains that most American states do not recognize marriage that young. Atana-san would be unable to return to Hawaii with her as his wife until at least the sixteenth anniversary of her birth, and even then they could have difficulties. If they went back right now, Atana-san could be arrested for statutory rape under American law."
       "But Rei has your permission..."
       "I've spoken with Shinto priests from Hawaii and California, daughter," Masahiko interrupted. "In most American states the age of consent is somewhere between the sixteenth and eighteenth anniversary of birth. And if the guardian consents, the law does not accept that. American law regards it as child abuse. Atana-san could wind up in jail, and Rei and Kara-chan in a foster home... Separate foster homes." He looked at Rika for a moment. "I'm pretty sure you don't want that."
       "No, I don't want that, father," she said. "But I think you aren't giving either of them credit for enough intelligence. They understand the implications better than you think, including that they would have to remain in Japan at least until she is sixteen."
       The old priest stared at the spirit of his daughter silently.
       "You have no confidence in your granddaughter's intelligence and good sense?" Rika asked.
       He sighed, then shook his head.
       "Is it anything other than her age?" Rika pressed.
       "She is young..."
       "But in this case, age is hardly a determining factor," Rika said. "And the decision of having to remain in Japan until the sixteenth anniversary of Rei's birth is one that only she and Atana-san can make. They belong together, father. I believe you must allow it. If your senses are as good as you claim, father, you have to be able to see that."
       Masahiko rubbed his chin in thought, then looked up at her again. "Tell me... just how did Atana-san and Kara-chan manage to travel forward in time?"
       "Uhm, I am not privy to the details of that, father," Rika said. "I only know that that is what happened... And I seem to recall someone telling me that there are some aspects of the world around us that the gods have not yet chosen to have us understand."
       He scowled at her again. "Just how is it you now recall my words so well, when you seemed incapable of it when you were Rei's age?"
       She chuckled. "It must be a blessing of the gods, father. Their ways and motives can be quite mysterious, you know."
       "Yes, they are," he muttered. "And I seem to have been neatly boxed in."
       She smiled at him. "It is the right thing to do... for all three of them."
       He nodded unenthusiastically. "But it cannot be done in time for New Year's Day," he pointed out. "I cannot make the necessary arrangements that fast. Not with how busy the Temple is at this time of year."
       "I understand, father," she said. "You are doing the right thing."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       "Mom, we have a date for the wedding," Usagi said into the phone.
       "Really, dear? That was quick," Ikuko said. "When?"
       "New Year's Day at 4:00pm, at the Hickawa Temple."
       "Did you say New Year's Day?" Ikuko asked in surprise.
       "That's right," Usagi confirmed. "Mamo-chan's lining up a place for the reception, but Rei's grandfather said he can perform the service."
       "Wow," Ikuko said. "I will tell your father. Who all are you planning to invite?"
       "I was thinking of you and Daddy, and Naru-chan, and Rei-chan, Ami-chan, Makoto-chan, and Minako-chan, and their boyfriends," Usagi said. "Mamo-chan will probably only have Kobayashi-san and his wife, and perhaps Motoki-san and his fiancee."
       "You're keeping it very small," Ikuko observed.
       "That was the plan," Usagi confirmed. "Mamo-chan doesn't have any other family, and we really wanted it to just be a few close friends."
       "Yes, I understand," Ikuko said. "I don't know if we can manage it on such short notice, but I'd really like to have your grandparents here too."
       "Sure. That would be great," Usagi said.
       "At our wedding, while your father and I were signing our vows and the register, my grandparents and your father's grandparents exchanged gifts... small charms I think... as gifts of introduction between the two families," Ikuko said. "And at the reception, my father's father, and your father's paternal grandfather, both gave toasts to us and the newly joined families."
       "I don't know if Kobayashi-san would do something like that," Usagi cautioned.
       "It was just a thought," Ikuko said. "I'm very happy for you both."
       "Thanks, Mom."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       "Come on, Kara," Atana called. "We have to get going."
       "But Daddy," Kara protested. "I want to stay here with Mommy."
       Atana shook his head. "We've been through this, honey." He crouched down and embraced the little girl. "Mommy has some things she has to do, and so do we. She'll be home tonight for dinner."
       "But Daddy..."
       He looked at her sternly and she gave up the fight, stamping the ground in frustration.
       "I'll see you later, honey," Rei said, kissing the little girl. "I love you."
       "I love you, Mommy," Kara answered, still far from happy.
       "See you at home," Atana said to Rei, kissing her.
       Rei nodded.
       As Atana and Kara walked down the steps to the street, Rei turned and headed back into the grounds.
       The spirit of Rei's mother, again in the form of Akari of Mars, emerged from behind a tree.
       "Mom!" Rei exclaimed in surprise. "What brings you here?"
       Akari smiled wryly. "I just had a little heart to heart with your grandfather."
       Rei drew back slightly in concern.
       "He knows about Kara," Akari continued.
       Rei's eyes widened in shock. "How?" she gasped.
       "I told you he has very acute senses," Akari said. "The physical resemblance between you two is really quite unmistakable, you know. But I think he also spotted something in your aura and hers."
       Rei struggled for breath. "What... What did you tell him?"
       "That she was your daughter from a past life."
       "Oh, gods!" Rei spun around in total disbelief. "And I'm sure that went over real well! How... How could you?!"
       "Rei. Calm down," Akari said, placing her hand on Rei's shoulder. "He accepted it."
       Rei stood there, flabbergasted. "He did? You're joking!"
       Akari shook her head. "He said there is an aura of timelessness around Atana. When I told him Atana and Kara had been sent forward in time to find you, that was obviously the final piece of the puzzle for him."
       "Just how much else did you tell him?" Rei asked.
       "Nothing else," Akari assured her.
       Rei breathed a sigh of relief.
       "Although we did discuss you and Atana getting married."
       Rei wheeled sharply on her mother. "You what?!" She had to struggle to keep her voice down.
       "Rei, dear, calm down please," Akari said softly. "It is for the best. You and Atana are soul-mates. You need each other. And your daughter needs both of you."
       "But we can't get married yet," Rei protested.
       "Of course you can," Akari answered. "You and Atana might not be able to return to Hawaii... at least not by official means... for another year or so, but I don't think either of you has any problems with spending the next year here in Japan."
       Rei nodded.
       "And I know you and Atana have already talked about the implications... that Hawaii won't recognize a marriage until at least the sixteenth anniversary of your birth... but Japan will."
       "I know that," Rei confirmed. She looked her mother in the eye. "So... what was Grandfather's response to this?"
       "He came to see that it is necessary for all three of you," Akari said.
       "You mean... he's going to give his consent?" Rei could scarcely believe it.
       Akari nodded. "Sometime after New Year's Day, after things stop being so busy around here, he will make the arrangements."
       Rei threw her arms around her mother. "That's incredible!" she exclaimed. "I'm so happy!... And yet, I'm also furious with you for handling it this way!"
       Akari laughed. "You'll get over that, dear. Especially once you are legally Mrs. Atana Magi."
       Rei sighed and nodded, knowing her mother was absolutely right.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       Mamoru and Usagi entered the lobby of a busy law office.
       "May I help you, sir?" the young man at the front desk asked.
       "Yes," Mamoru replied. "I'm Chiba Mamoru. I have an appointment with Mizuuchi Seiji-san."
       "One moment please, Chiba-san," the man said. He picked up his phone and pressed a button. "Please inform Mizuuchi-san that Chiba-san is here... Thank you." He returned the handset to the cradle. "You may go back, Chiba-san." He stood and pointed to a set of doors to his right. "Go through those doors, please. Third door on the left."
       "Thank you," Mamoru replied.
       Mamoru and Usagi soon entered an outer office that served four attornies. A secretary sat at a desk next to the door, while four clerks sat further back.
       "Chiba-san?" the secretary asked.
       "Yes," Mamoru confirmed. "And my fiancee, Tsukino Usagi."
       "One moment, please," the secretary said. She picked up her phone. "Mizuuchi-san, Chiba-san and his fiancee are here."
       The door furthest to the right opened and Mizuuchi emerged. "Chiba-san. Please do come in."
       "Thank you," Mamoru replied with a bow. "This is my fiancee, Tsukino Usagi."
       "It is a pleasure to meet you, Tsukino-san," Mizuuchi said.
       "Thank you, Mizuuichi-san," Usagi said.
       Mizuuchi's office was small but comfortable. A bookcase crammed with books dominated one wall, while an old-fashioned desk and secretary stood against another wall, behind a more conventional desk on which was a computer terminal. He gestured to two chairs in front of his desk. "Please have a seat."
       Mamoru and Usagi sat down.
       Mizuuchi opened a file folder. "I have here the application for your marriage license." He slid the form toward them.
       "Are we both able to sign this?" Mamoru asked.
       "Yes," Mizuuchi answered. "I also have here the affidavit that you will be of age as of January 1st, Chiba-san, and I have the consent forms signed by Tsukino-san's parents. Those establish the validity of your signatures."
       Mamoru nodded, then reached for the form and signed it.
       Taking the form, Usagi grinned at Mamoru before signing her own name.
       Mizuuchi signed in witness, then returned the form to the folder. "I will get this processed right away."
       "Thank you," Mamoru said.
       "Are the rest of your preparations going well?" Mizuuchi asked.
       Mamoru nodded. "Yes. Our next stop is to begin selecting wedding outfits."
       "My best wishes to you both," Mizuuchi said. "I will contact you when I have the license."
       "Thank you," Mamoru said, as he and Usagi rose to their feet.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       Mamoru led Usagi down a side street. They passed a display window that showed several mannequins in formal, traditional attire. Next to the window was a door on which was printed the name 'Miyasato'.
       "This is where we're going to find our wedding outfits?" Usagi asked.
       Mamoru nodded. "That's right." He opened the door for her. A bell softly jingled as the door moved. One side of the store was dedicated to women's clothing, while the other side was men's clothes. Two counters enclosed the service area at the center.
       As they walked inside, an older gentleman came forward. "Good afternoon," he greeted them. He then paused, looking at them. "Ah, Chiba-san. So good to see you again."
       "Thank you, Miyasato-san," Mamoru answered, bowing.
       Miyasato returned the bow. "What may I do for you? A new suit, perhaps?"
       "Actually, we're both in need of something more special," Mamoru said.
       "Really?" Miyasato asked.
       "Yes," Mamoru confirmed. "This is Tsukino Usagi... my fiancee."
       "Fiancee? Well, my congratulations to both of you," Miyasato said.
       "Thank you, Miyasato-san," Usagi said.
       "My, my. Getting married," Miyasato said. "It seems like only yesterday we were fitting your father for his wedding, Chiba-san."
       "Miyasato-san is perhaps the best traditional clothier in Tokyo," Mamoru told Usagi.
       Miyasato nodded his head slightly at the praise. "Like your fiance's, Tsukino-san, mine is a family business."
       "Yes," Mamoru agreed. "Except that I am only the third generation, whereas you are the... uhm, seventh, is it?"
       "That is true," Miyasato said. "But when is the happy occasion?"
       "New Year's Day," Mamoru answered.
       Miyasato stared at him for a moment. "New Year's Day?"
       "That's right," Mamoru said. "We were hoping you could put something together for us."
       Miyasato rubbed his chin and took a breath. "Well... that does rule out custom orders, I'm afraid. We'll need to rely on what we already have in stock to be able to meet your deadline."
       "That was what we expected, Miyasato-san," Mamoru said.
       "So, what are we looking at?" Miyasato asked, leading them back to the counter. "Full wedding kimono set and a wedding gown for you, Tsukino-san? And a man's wedding kimono for you, Chiba-san?"
       "That's right," Mamoru said.
       "Is your current tuxedo adequate for the reception ceremony, Chiba-san?" Miyasato asked.
       "Yes, it is," Mamoru said.
       Miyasato nodded. He pulled out a large catalog, quickly opening it to the women's kimonos. As he did so, he waved to another woman. "Tsukino-san, this is Togashi-san, chief stylist and tailor of our women's department. She will assist you with dressing and fittings," he said. "Togashi-san, this is Tsukino-san, and her fiance, Chiba-san. Tsukino-san is looking for a full wedding set, for a New Year's Day ceremony."
       Togashi looked at Miyasato questioningly.
       "You will need to guide Tsukino-san through the options that we currently have in stock," Miyasato added.
       "I understand," she acknowledged, turning to Usagi and indicating the catalog. "It is a privilege to serve you, Tsukino-san. Let's start with the kimono set. The bridal kimono is white, with a white outer robe, an uchikake, worn over it. The uchikake usually has red trim, which is the only significant color variation you will display until after the ceremony." She pointed to several different photos. "Now, you have some options available to you. Some versions have a bridal hood, the tsuno-kakushi. The tsuno-kakushi is the oldest of the current styles, and is intended to cover the bride's 'horns' in an expression of wifely obedience."
       Usagi giggled softly. "Horns?"
       "It's a traditional expression," Togashi said. "Horns are meant as a symbol of jealousy. In hiding the horns of jealousy, the woman is said to be making a pledge to be an obedient, trusting, and supportive wife, and to take her place in the household of her husband's family, in which she would be expected to be subordinate to her new mother-in-law."
       "We don't have that issue, of course," Mamoru said softly.
       Togashi looked at Mamoru uncertainly, then glanced at Miyasato.
       Miyasato shook his head almost imperceptibly and made a slight motion with one hand.
       Togashi's eyes widened as she understood Miyasato's meaning. "Forgive me, Chiba-san. I didn't realize the explanation was inapplicable, nor possibly inappropriate." She quickly turned to Usagi, anxious to get back to business. "In any case, Tsukino-san, it is an expression from another time, one that is largely out of date in modern society, given that it no longer reflects modern family structures."
       Miyasato nodded. "Yes. The actual belief behind the custom is archaic and out of touch with today's culture, but the tsuno-kakushi remains in fashion for much the same reason the Western-style veil does. It genuinely does accentuate the beauty of the bride, and many women simply cannot imagine fulfilling their bridal image without it."
       Togashi indicated another photo. "This would be your alternative, Tsukino-san. A bride wears her hair up in the customary bunkin-takashimada style, with lacquered combs inserted both to hold the style in place and to serve as decoration." She looked up for a moment. "Some brides actually wear a wig if their own hair is too short or otherwise cannot be fashioned in that style. In your case, however, we would not be able to prepare a blond wig in the time available, but I don't think you would have any difficulty in having your own hair styled accordingly. We can recommend a hair stylist who is particularly skilled in that, if you would like."
       "Thank you," Usagi acknowledged.
       "Now, back to the alternative to the tsuno-kakushi," Togashi said. "You might select an outer robe with no hood, or choose not to wear the hood up. In either case, you would wear a band perched to frame your hair, almost like a hat, except that it is open on the top. This allows some of your hair to be visible, as well as the decorations you will be wearing, but is sufficient for the tradition of hiding 'horns'."
       "Both styles are perfectly correct," Miyasato added. "And they remain in fashion because, as I've said, they unquestionably accentuate the beauty of the bride."
       Usagi flushed slightly and glanced over at Mamoru.
       'I have an especially lovely bride,' Mamoru said through their link.
       Togashi turned the page. "These pictures give you a particularly good impression of each style."
       Usagi continued to study the pictures. "I don't think I'd like to use the hood," she said.
       Togashi quickly made another note on her order form. "Very good, Tsukino-san. Now, just to be clear, you do intend to wear a Western-style wedding gown to the reception?"
       "Yes, that's right," Usagi confirmed.
       "Very good." Togashi made another note, then turned to another page. "Do you wish to have a second uchikake for after the service? This one would be very colorful and patterned."
       "Is it necessary?" Usagi asked.
       "Not necessary, Tsukino-san," Togashi said. "During the service, the bride wears white both as a symbol of purity, and of her willingness to be 'dyed', that is to conform to her new place in her husband's family. After the marriage has been pronounced, you will have become a part of his family, so the wearing of color is again entirely appropriate. Some brides don a more colorful and ornate uchikake shortly after the service when greeting family, and may even continue to wear it until they arrive at the reception. Others choose to wear it for the entire reception."
       Mamoru leaned forward. "Uhm, I hope I'm not mistaken, but wouldn't the bridal kimono underneath restrict movement, such as for dancing?"
       "Yes, Chiba-san. It almost certainly will," Togashi acknowledged. "And that is a factor in some brides choosing the Western-style gown for the reception."
       Usagi nodded in understanding, then glanced over at Mamoru. "I still think I want the Western-style gown for the reception... but what do you think about the second outer robe?"
       "I think it would be fine," Mamoru answered. "And I believe I read that it is often the case that the bride changes clothes several times after the service?"
       "That is true, Chiba-san," Miyasato confirmed. "It simply depends on how ornate the couple wishes to be."
       "OK," Usagi said. "I can at least look at what is available."
       "Very good," Togashi said. "I think we should start with assembling the kimono selections for you, since there is much more to that. If you will follow me to one of the dressing areas, I can show you some of the options."
       Usagi glanced over at Mamoru again. 'Are you coming with me?'
       'I need to select my own outfit,' he replied. 'Trust your own judgment, my love.'
       She sighed, then nodded. "Yes. Let's get started, Togashi-san."
       Miyasato picked up his own order form. "Chiba-san, shall we select your outfit?"
       "Certainly," Mamoru agreed.
       Miyasato led Mamoru to the rear of the men's section, where he pulled his measuring tape from his pocket. "So, we will be putting together the standard outfit of black kimono, black hakama pants with white pin-stripes, and a black haori jacket?" He lifted Mamoru's arm and took a measurement.
       "Yes," Mamoru said.
       Miyasato continued taking measurements. "As you know, Chiba-san, the haori has a crest on it in five places." He indicated one hanging on a display rack. The crest was a small white circular image. "Here on either side of the chest, one on each sleeve, and one here on the back, between the shoulders. Do you want your actual family crest on the haori? I believe we still have it on file."
       "Can you do it in the time we have?" Mamoru asked.
       "Certainly," Miyasato answered.
       "In that case, yes, let's include the Chiba crest," Mamoru said.
       Miyasato made a note on the form. Putting away his tape, he stepped over to a set of shelves, and selected a hakama. He then moved to the racks along the wall, taking down a kimono and then a haori; the haori had no crests on it yet. Lastly, he selected a package containing an under-kimono. "Try these on, please, Chiba-san."
       Mamoru nodded, taking the garments and walking into the changing room. Miyasato stood close by to observe. Mamoru put on the padded under-kimono, which would provide a smoother fit of the kimono. It also had a white border that would be visible at his neck and upper chest. He drew out both sides to equal length, then set them in place across his chest and fastened them. Next, he slipped on the kimono. It was full-length, reaching almost to his ankles. He pulled the right panel of the kimono to his left hip, then pulled the left panel to his right.
       "Very good, Chiba-san," Miyasato commented. "I see you have some practice in this."
       "A little," Mamoru acknowledged. He checked that the collar of the under kimono was showing properly, then pulled down the sides of the kimono and smoothed it out. Miyasato handed him a thin sash used to keep the kimono in place, which Mamoru fastened. He then picked up the obi. "Now this is the tricky part."
       Miyasato nodded.
       Mamoru carefully wrapped the obi around himself, going slowly. The last time he had done this was when he and Usagi were in Hawaii at Atana's house, and he had needed Usagi's help to get it right. He turned around so that Miyasato could see his back, then reached around to begin tying the obi.
       "Uhm, if I might make a suggestion, Chiba-san?" Miyasato stepped closer.
       "Please do," Mamoru said. "The last time I did this it took several tries and my fiancee's help."
       Miyasato adjusted the position of his hands, then stepped out of the changing room, returning with a generic obi which he wrapped around himself. "Here is what you were doing, Chiba-san," he said. "Instead, try it this way." He went through the motions slowly. "I think you will find it much easier."
       Mamoru did as Miyasato instructed, finding it much more successful. "Thank you."
       Miyasato set aside his own obi, then inspected the fit of Mamoru's kimono. "Very good," he said.
       Mamoru stepped into the hakama. Some hakama were cut like pants, with two distinct legs, while this one, made to be worn over a kimono, was more like a skirt. He positioned the front sash just below the top edge of his obi, then wrapped that around his waist. He next wrapped the back sash and tied them at the front, making the correct cross shape.
       Miyasato checked the knot, then inspected the fit. "Slightly long perhaps, but we can address that shortly." He handed Mamoru the haori.
       Mamoru slipped on the jacket. Taking the white cords, he carefully knotted them so that the knot hung just below the V of his ribs.
       The two men walked back out of the changing room.
       Miyasato nodded, studying Mamoru closely as he appraised the fit. "It looks very good... Yes... How does it feel, Chiba-san?"
       "Just fine," Mamoru answered.
       Miyasato checked the fit across the shoulders. "Hold your arm out, please." As Mamoru did so, he made a slight adjustment to the sleeve. "Thank you." He then crouched down and checked the length of the hakama, adjusting it and making several marks. Standing back up, he checked the waist. "Not too snug... or too loose?"
       "No, I don't think so," Mamoru replied.
       "Excellent," Miyasato said, making more notes on his order form. "We only need to make some very minor alterations. Now we just need to measure for footwear; standard tabi socks and zori sandals." He knelt down in front of Mamoru and measured his foot. "Alright. That is taken care of." He made another note on his order form. "If you will change back into your clothes, I will have these prepared for alteration."
       Mamoru rose to his feet and returned to the changing room. He removed the wedding outfit, being careful not to disturb the tailoring marks Miyasato had made, and returned them to the hangers. After putting his own clothes back on, he stepped out of the room.
       Miyasato took the garments from Mamoru and hung them on a mobile rack, attaching a tag to each item with Mamoru's name. "These should be ready in a few days, Chiba-san."
       "That sounds great," Mamoru said.
       "Should we go see how your fiancee is doing?" Miyasato asked. "Or do you prefer to not see her kimono until the ceremony?"
       Mamoru shook his head. "I would love to see what she has selected."
       "Very well." Miyasato led Mamoru across to the women's section, where he tapped softly at a door. "Togashi-san?"
       "Yes?" she called.
       "Chiba-san is finished. Do you mind if he comes in?"
       "Not at all," Togashi answered. "Just a moment." After a pause, there was a click and the door opened.
       Mamoru stepped inside, finding it was a room with several chairs and a small changing room at the back. A wheeled cabinet contained several folded kimono sets. He pulled the door closed and sat down in the first chair so as to stay out of the way.
       Usagi was standing there facing the mirrors in the customary undershirt and half-slip that were the inner-most layer of the outfit, worn directly over the woman's bra and panties. She was already wearing tabi socks. Togashi and her assistant were fitting Usagi with body pads to adjust her shape to the straight lines of the kimono, padding the areas around the collar bone, the small of her back, and the area below her breasts, as well as compensating for the now noticeable protrusion of her abdomen.
       The assistant took several measurements. "That looks correct, Togashi-san."
       "Thank you, Sunohara-san," Togashi answered. "Let's translate these into the 'easy-to-wear'."
       The other woman nodded, retrieving an open box from the cabinet. She pulled out a long under-kimono and began to insert pads into pockets inside the garment corresponding to the areas of Usagi's frame that needed it.
       "This is an easy-to-wear slip and pad garment," Togashi explained. "It's been developed for women who are wearing a kimono perhaps for the first time, and eliminating the need to reposition the pads each time you wish to put on the kimono."
       Sunohara moved up behind Usagi, holding the garment open for her to slip her arms into. The assistant then began to fasten it.
       "You want to leave a bit of a gap at the base of the neck when putting on either an 'easy-to-wear' or a regular under-kimono," Togashi instructed. "Fold the front left over right, adjusting the collar so that the exposed neckline should measure about three fingers in length." She gestured with her hand as she instructed. "Don't feel like you have to memorize it all today, Tsukino-san. We will go through this again at the final fitting, and we'll give you printed instructions."
       "Thank you," Usagi said. "I already own a kimono... but I've only worn it once. And it did come with a set of instructions, but in some areas they weren't very clear."
       Togashi nodded. "By any chance did you purchase your kimono from one of the department stores, Tsukino-san?"
       "Yes... Yes, I did," Usagi said.
       "I rather thought so," Togashi said. "Only a few even sell them, and it is a common complaint that they provide insufficient instructions. I think you will find ours much more helpful. Afterall, you cannot fully appreciate and enjoy the beauty of the kimono if you do not know how to wear it properly."
       Sunohara finished fastening the garment, then crossed the bands that came down from the collar. She doublechecked the padding at the small of Usagi's back, then fastened an elastic belt around her waist. Lastly, she attached half-sleeves to match the kimono Usagi had selected. "These half-sleeves can be changed to match whatever kimono you may have, Tsukino-san," she explained.
       "That's great," Usagi commented. "I could keep this one even if I were to purchase a new kimono."
       "That's correct," Togashi said. "Particularly convenient in the case of a wedding kimono, which you will probably only wear once. You should also be able to purchase half-sleeves to match the kimono you already own, allowing you to use this 'easy-to-wear' with that one."
       "Are we ready for the wedding kimono, Togashi-san?" Sunohara asked.
       Togashi checked the fit of the easy-to-wear slip. "Yes, we are."
       Sunohara carefully unfolded the kimono and brought it over to Usagi. She and Togashi helped slip it over Usagi's arms. Togashi clipped the collar of the kimono to that of the easy-to-wear slip.
       "The clip will keep the back mid seam in exactly the right position until we can fully secure the kimono," Togashi explained.
       As the women began to fit the kimono to Usagi, Mamoru could see that it was a pure, almost shimmering white, with an intricate flower pattern woven into it.
       "I really like that pattern," Mamoru commented.
       Togashi nodded. "I think it is an excellent choice, Chiba-san," she said. "I was telling Tsukino-san we won't be able to complete the head dress or hair decorations with her hair down. She'll need to have it up when she returns for her final fitting."
       Usagi nodded. "That's not a problem."
       Sunohara crouched in front of Usagi, adjusting the overlap of the front panels of the kimono, as Togashi stood back.
       "Yes. That's it," Togashi said.
       Sunohara nodded, fastening it in place with a small sash.
       Togashi picked up the elastic kimono belt. After checking the front collar again, she secured the belt, then removed the clip from the collar. "Do we need to make any alterations, Sunohara-san?"
       Sunohara smoothed out several wrinkles along the back, then knelt down to inspect the hem. "It looks fine for the moment, Togashi-san, but I would think we should confirm that after she is wearing the obi."
       "Yes, of course," Togashi agreed. She picked up the obi, which exactly matched the kimono in color and pattern, and began to wrap it around Usagi's waist.
       'How does it feel so far?' Mamoru asked through their link.
       'Heavy,' she answered. 'And a bit warm.'
       'Then it's a good thing we aren't having a summer wedding,' he commented.
       Togashi completed the tying of the obi. "I'd like you to take a few steps please, Tsukino-san."
       Usagi nodded, and began to move.
       "Any concerns with the fit?" Togashi asked.
       "I don't think so," Usagi answered.
       "Very good," Togashi said. "Sunohara-san, let's check the length again."
       "Yes, Togashi-san," Sunohara acknowledged. She measured the length again, then adjusted the hem. "Just a slight adjustment," she said as she pinned the hem.
       Togashi made a note on the order form. "Excellent."
       Sunohara rose to her feet, having completed the adjustments.
       Togashi circled Usagi once more, inspecting closely. "Yes... Very good. Now I think we are ready for the uchikake."
       Sunohara opened up the outer robe. It was white silk with a red trim.
       Togashi helped slide it on over the sleeves of Usagi's kimono, then adjusted it across the front and fastened it loosely.
       Sunohara returned with a set of accessories. "It is tradition that you carry several items with you, Tsukino-san." She handed her a small bag. "This is a hakoseko, essentially a small purse." Next, she presented a small white tube which she slipped into Usagi's kimono. "This is a kaiken, a small encased sword."
       "Sword?" Usagi asked, surprised.
       "That's right," Sunohara confirmed. "And lastly, a fan to wear in your obi belt. Tradition holds that the widening of the fan suggests happiness and conveys a happy future."
       "OK," Usagi acknowledged. She took several more steps, getting used to moving in the heavy attire.
       "You look lovely, Usako," Mamoru said.
       "Thank you, Mamo-chan," she said, smiling at him.
       "How are the sleeves?" Togashi asked Sunohara.
       The other woman made a quick check of how the sleeves came in relation to Usagi's wrists. "Almost ideal, Togashi-san."
       Togashi nodded. "We've been very fortunate, Chiba-san. This particular set is already almost the perfect size for Tsukino-san. I was rather concerned about that given how petite she is, but very little adjustment will be required. If major tailoring had been required, that could have been difficult given your time constraint."
       Mamoru nodded. "I was fortunate, also. Miyasato-san was able to put together an outfit almost exact for my size."
       "That's wonderful, Mamo-chan," Usagi said, grinning happily.
       "What do you think of it, Usako?" he asked, indicating her kimono.
       "Oh, I just love it," she said, her grin growing even larger. "It's so beautiful."
       "So are you, Usako," he said.
       "It's everything I could have dreamed of," she continued.
       He grinned at her happiness. "I'm very glad."
       Togashi made several more notes while her assistant finalized the adjustments to Usagi's kimono. "Now, I believe we need to look at the second uchikake, to be worn after the ceremony."
       "Oh, yes," Usagi said, remembering.
       Sunohara brought over several catalog pages while Togashi removed her white uchikake. "You would also remove the band from your hair after the service," she said.
       Usagi looked at the pages. One suddenly caught her eye. Primarily red and gold, with flowers and cranes, it also had several crescent moons on the collar. "Wow. That one is lovely. Do you have one of those that would work for me?"
       Sunohara looked closely at the sheet. "That is an unusual pattern, given the crescent moons. But let me check. Togashi-san?"
       "Please bring the catalog of available wedding gowns when you return," Togashi requested.
       "Yes, Togashi-san."
       Togashi carefully folded the white uchikake and set it aside.
       Several minutes later, Sunohara returned, carrying a large box and a three-ring binder. "We do have one, Tsukino-san. It may need adjustment in the sleeves."
       Togashi nodded, opening the box. "That is something we can deal with readily enough." She unfolded the uchikake, holding it out for Usagi to slip her arms into. As she inspected the fit, she fastened the front.
       Sunohara raised Usagi's arm and inspected the sleeve.
       "Oh, I love it," Usagi exclaimed. "It is so beautiful."
       "Yes. It looks very good on you, Tsukino-san," Togashi agreed. "A very nice choice."
       Sunohara checked her measurements. "The sleeves extend about four centimeters beyond the wrist, Togashi-san."
       Togashi made another note. "Very good."
       As the other women stepped back, Usagi turned around, looking at herself in the mirrors. "I really like this one."
       "Let's help Tsukino-san remove the kimono, Sunohara-san," Togashi said. "Then we can proceed to the wedding gown."
       "Yes, Togashi-san," the other woman acknowledged.
       As Sunohara and Togashi began helping Usagi remove the uchikake and then the top layer of her kimono, Mamoru remained in his seat, knowing he would not be able to offer any constructive help. Each part was returned to its own plastic bag, then tagged with Usagi's name.
       Usagi, now down to just her bra and panties, stepped into the changing room to pull on her clothes. Returning, she sat down next to Mamoru.
       Togashi pulled up a chair, then opened the binder. "These are the gowns that we have in stock, Tsukino-san."
       "Are there some that are more to my size than others?" Usagi asked.
       "That isn't as much of a concern as with the kimono, Tsukino-san," Togashi answered. "Tailoring a Western-style wedding gown is generally nowhere near as laborious a process since the gown has far fewer pieces than the kimono. Of course, there are some with particularly ornate patterns or other details that can be difficult, but we can advise you if you're looking at one that would be problematic."
       Usagi nodded in understanding, slowly turning the pages. She soon stopped, finding a gown with a flowing skirt, and worn just off the shoulder. The gown had a silver highlight woven into it, reminding her of Princess Serenity's gown. "I like this one," she said.
       Togashi quickly wrote down the number.
       On the next page, Usagi found one that was completely strapless and snug-fitting for the torso. "Definitely not," she said softly, realizing it would only draw attention to the fact that she was pregnant.
       Togashi glanced at the page. "Ah, yes. That would probably not be an ideal choice for you," she agreed.
       Usagi nodded. She had told Togashi she was pregnant after her appearance undressed had made it quite obvious. Flipping past two more dresses, she came to one with a shallow v-neck and no sleeves. A decorative band, almost like a broad obi, framed the mid-section, below which was a flowing skirt. "I think I'd like to try this one too."
       Togashi nodded, writing down that number as well.
       "Let's try these two," Usagi said. "If the first one looks as good in the mirror as it does in the photo, I think that would be my choice."
       Togashi handed the two numbers to Sunohara, who quickly left the room. "You are absolutely right, Tsukino-san. It is critical to try on a dress and then to have it fitted. Only then can you truly tell if it will suit you."
       "They both look nice," Mamoru said. "But I think I agree with you about the first one."
       They sat quietly for several minutes, until Sunohara returned, carrying two dresses. She entered the room and hung them next to the changing room.
       Togashi rose and selected the second gown Usagi had chosen. "May I suggest you try this one first?"
       Usagi nodded, standing up and walking to the changing room. Sunohara stood ready to assist if needed. Usagi emerged from the room several minutes later, and Sunohara finished zipping the back of the dress.
       "Firstly, Tsukino-san, tell me how it fits," Togashi said.
       Usagi took several steps, running her hands around her waist. "The band is more... confining than I had expected."
       Togashi nodded, her professional eye drawn immediately to Usagi's abdomen. "I'm afraid that goes with the style," she said. "Is it just restrictive, or too snug?"
       Usagi thought for a moment. "I wouldn't call it snug... at least not yet. But I don't know what it might be like in a couple weeks."
       "We can alter it to allow more room," Togashi said. She stepped forward and inspected the gown herself. "I see two or three areas that would definitely need attention, but I am most concerned about proportion, Tsukino-san."
       "I don't think I understand," Usagi said.
       Togashi indicated the band. "I think this is too broad for your frame. It reaches almost to your breasts. I believe it would be much more flattering if it only came up just above the base of the ribs, assuming you weren't pregnant of course. Given that you are, this one makes it appear that you are going out of your way to advertise that fact, which I'm sure is not what you're trying to do for this particular occasion."
       Usagi nodded in understanding. "Then let's try on the other gown." Sunohara helped her unzip the gown, then she returned to the changing room. She soon passed that gown out to Sunohara, who began smoothing it out and returning it to its hanger. Togashi handed the other gown to Usagi. She soon emerged from the dressing room, and Togashi assisted with the zipper.
       "That one really looks nice," Mamoru said.
       Usagi nodded, looking at herself in the mirrors. "Yes. It really does."
       "How does it fit, Tsukino-san?" Togashi asked.
       "Very nice," Usagi said, beginning to move. She glanced down. "Well... maybe a bit loose in the chest."
       Togashi checked the measurements on the gown's tag, comparing them against Usagi's measurements. "Yes. This one is cut for a somewhat fuller figured woman."
       Usagi continued to move. "I like how it feels, Togashi-san. To me, it doesn't feel too confining, and it doesn't feel like it might not fit if the babies go through a sudden growth spurt."
       Stepping forward, Togashi checked the fit. "You are correct, Tsukino-san. And the skirt is high enough that it should avoid calling too much attention to your abdomen."
       "I think this is the one I want," Usagi said.
       Sunohara moved forward to check the hem of the skirt. "I think only two or three centimeters here, Togashi-san," she said.
       "Very good," Togashi acknowledged. "Please mark that."
       Sunohara began pinning the hem.
       Togashi took a fresh measurement of Usagi's chest, then inspected the drape of the dress at her hips and abdomen, writing down the information.
       'I really like that one, Usako,' Mamoru told her.
       'So do I,' she replied.
       Sunohara quickly finished with the hem and returned to her feet.
       "I think that takes care of things for today, Tsukino-san," Togashi said. "You may remove the gown."
       "Thank you," Usagi said, returning to the changing room. Several minutes later, she emerged wearing her simple dress and jacket.
       Sunohara took the gown and returned it to its hanger, then attached a tag with Usagi's name.
       Togashi finished the order form for Usagi. "I think we can go out front and finalize your orders," she said.
       Mamoru and Usagi followed Togashi out to the counter, where Miyasato was waiting.
       "I take it you found something to your liking, Tsukino-san?" Miyasato asked.
       "Oh, yes," Usagi answered. "I couldn't be happier."
       "I am very pleased to hear that," Miyasato said. "I have your order written up, Chiba-san. I just need a signature."
       Mamoru nodded, signing the order form. "Her order is mine, too."
       "I rather assumed as much, Chiba-san," Togashi said, as she typed the information into the computer terminal that looked rather out of place in the old-style store. She reached down to retrieve the completed form from the printer. "Here you are."
       "Thank you," Mamoru said, glancing over Usagi's order, then signing it.
       "We will call you when your orders are ready for final fitting, Chiba-san," Miyasato said.
       "Oh, and Tsukino-san, please remember to wear your hair up for that fitting," Togashi added.
       "I will," Usagi answered.
       Togashi handed her a small piece of paper. "This is the name of the hair stylist I mentioned earlier, Tsukino-san. I would advise you to call to set an appointment at the earliest opportunity, given that you will need it done during the period of the Christmas and New Year's holidays."
       Usagi took the paper with a nod. "Thank you."
       "Thank you, Miyasato-san," Mamoru said, as he and Usagi reached the door.
       "It was a pleasure to see you again, Chiba-san," Miyasato said.
       Mamoru and Usagi walked outside and back along the street.
       "Did you find a nice outfit, Mamo-chan?" she asked.
       Mamoru nodded. "But the groom's outfit is pretty straight forward. The only real variation is the crest on the haori. Some people use a generic crest, but my family actually has a crest of its own, so that will be on mine."
       "That's wonderful," Usagi said. "I know I'm very pleased with my kimono and my gown. They're both so beautiful."
       "The woman wearing them is so beautiful," he said.
       "Oh, Mamo-chan," she sighed.
       He leaned over and kissed her cheek. "I love you, Usako."
       "I love you," she answered.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       Mamoru and Usagi entered the elevator in their apartment building. As the door closed, she leaned back against him with a sigh.
       "Are you alright, Usako?" he asked, enfolding her in his arms. He opened his mind to hers, feeling her fatigue through their link.
       "Just tired," she said softly.
       As he held her, he could sense the energy of the ginzuishou flowing into her, but the level seemed to be fluctuating. "Is something going on with the ginzuishou?" he asked.
       "What do you mean?"
       "The energy coming from it doesn't feel like the usual trickle," he said.
       "I don't know," she said. "I'm not doing anything different."
       "OK," he acknowledged.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

       Atana and Rei softly closed the door to Kara's room after wishing the little girl good night, and returned to the living room.
       "So, are you going to tell me what's happened?" he asked. "You've looked like you're about to burst all evening."
       She embraced him tightly, then looked up into his eyes happily. "Mom had a talk with Grandfather."
       "Oh, really?" he asked.
       She nodded. "She told him the truth about you and Kara."
       Atana's eyes widened. "Are you serious?"
       "Apparently Grandfather had already figured out about Kara, and he told Mom there is an aura of timelessness about you," Rei said.
       "Oh, wow," he sighed. "I never guessed he could pick up on such things."
       "I've known for years that he has enhanced senses," she said. "But I never knew his senses were that acute."
       "So, just what does this mean for us?" he asked.
       Rei took a slow breath as the excitement within again swelled to be almost uncontainable. "Mom convinced him to let us get married," she declared, the words rushing out.
       He looked at her for a moment, feeling his heart pounding in his chest. "She did?"
       She nodded, now trembling with excitement and joy. "Yes!" she said, struggling to keep her voice down. "Sometime after New Year's, when things slow down a bit at the Temple, he's going to make the necessary arrangements."
       He hugged her tightly, feeling just as much excitement as she was, and pressed his lips to hers. "It's so wonderful," he whispered.
       "Oh, yes!" she agreed.

< To be continued >

* * * * * * * * * * * *
NOTE: Thanks again for your patience. It's not easy sometimes finding time to write, and for some time my Sailor Moon muse seemed to have left me, but I have at last recovered it as well as enough time to seriously tackle this again. As usual, special thanks to my lovely wife, Hopeless Romantic, for her considerable aid in researching the details of men's and women's kimono.

Hopeless Romantic and I have a message group to notify our readers when we post new stories/chapters. Those who are interested can sign up at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/strands_of_moonlight/ .

Always remember, good gentles, that a yarnspinner works from and within existing legends and stories. The characters of "Sailor Moon" belong to others. In spinning my yarns, I do not seek to infringe on their rights of ownership, but merely to join with other fans to spread the legend still further. "The moonlight carries a message of love." Enjoy.

-12.09.2012