That Special Magic 78

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 78 - Going Ahead <
       Atana and Rei walked along the street. His arm was around her as they walked.
       She looked up at him, smiling. With him was just where she was meant to be.
       Seeing her bright smile, he pulled her into his embrace and kissed her. "I love you, my beautiful Mrs. Magi."
       She nodded. "And I love you, my handsome Mr. Magi."
       "Well, a man must always make sure the woman he loves knows just how much he does."
       "And the woman should do the same," she agreed, leaning up to press her lips to his.
       He smiled as he held her in his arms. "I know I said I was happy to wait for the actual wedding... but now that it's going to happen in the near future..."
       She nodded. "I know just what you mean. I can hardly wait too." She looked up at him. "And... I... I'm also anxious for... for something else."
       He looked into her eyes. "You mentioned that before."
       "And now the threat is over," she said. "It wouldn't be like with Kara, when so many portents and prophecies were warning of impending disaster."
       "I know," he said softly. "I'm not trying to talk you out of it... but are you really sure? In this life, you've only been a mother for a short time... and Kara is quite self-sufficient for a four-year-old. An infant..."
       "I know that," she interrupted him. "But isn't part of it just being the right time for the man and the woman?"
       "Yes," he agreed, knowing that was why he and Princess Rei had decided to have a child, even though custom had dictated they should wait.
       She kissed him. "It just feels like the right time for us... and as you said, Kara doesn't need so much help anymore..."
       He nodded. "But..."
       She put her hand gently to his mouth. "And this time around, you're not going to have to be a single parent."
       He tightened his embrace of her. "You just about sold me on that one," he said softly. "But right now, we do need to get home to Kara and your mother. We can talk about this more later."
       She grinned as they resumed walking.

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

       Rei knelt by the tub as she helped Kara with her bath, wearing just one of Atana's shirts. Glancing behind her, she saw him standing in the doorway. After what they had just been through, she was so happy to be here with her own family. With each moment, she was thinking more and more of the joy of having a family.
       Atana smiled happily. All too clearly he still remembered that horrible image of her laying there, and recalled feeling her die in his arms. But thanks to Usagi, he had awoken to find her restored. He never wanted to come that close to losing her again. For too long, his family had been incomplete, and he didn't want to go back to that again.
       "Mommy!" Kara protested, as Rei poured water over her hair.
       "We have to wash your hair, honey," Rei said softly, beginning to apply the shampoo.
       "But not so much," Kara said.
       Rei laughed. "And how am I supposed to get you clean without water?"
       Kara shrugged, clearly not caring about that part of it.
       Working the lather through the long strands of the little girl's hair, Rei sighed happily. As always, she recalled Princess Rei's memories of bathing Kara as an infant, and she fully shared her joy at having a family of her own. This was just where she belonged. At the same time, her own feelings and Princess Rei's memories were in agreement; both wanted more than just one child.
       Atana knelt behind the lovely young woman he loved so entirely and gently caressed her back. Soon now, but not possibly soon enough for his liking, she would legally be his wife. He had always regretted they had not simply run off to get married in her past life, but now that they were together again, that was a mistake he was not going to repeat. Certainly no ceremony could make them closer than they already were, but in her case a marriage license established her legal right to live with him and to be recognized as Kara's mother. He too was considering the possibility of having another child, also fully aware that Princess Rei had wanted more than one. Now that he and Rei would soon be married, there really wasn't any reason not to if they both wanted it.
       "Alright, honey," Rei said softly, opening the drain. Kara stood up and Rei helped her out of the tub, then wrapped her in a towel.
       Kara gave her a hug. "I love you, Mommy."
       Rei smiled. "I love you, too."
       Atana embraced them both.

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

       In the cavern in Wales, Gordon and Benjamin sat in the conference room with Yusuke.
       "And Magi-san said they returned to Tokyo, where they activated the two crystals together," Yusuke said. "The two crystals immediately achieved harmony with one another, fully stabilizing the silver one."
       "And that was the pulse we detected?" Benjamin asked.
       "Yes," Yusuke confirmed.
       Benjamin flipped through several reports. "Well, at least there is no indication of any effect from this one."
       "That's good," Gordon agreed.
       Benjamin turned back to Yusuke. "So, we're certain the danger is over?"
       "Yes. Magi-san said the two crystals were freely exchanging energy," Yusuke said.
       "That does seem to fit with the legend we found," Benjamin said, nodding. "What do you think, Gordon?"
       "I think we've achieved what we needed to," Gordon said. "Thank you, Yusuke-san."
       Yusuke bowed in his chair.
       "Benjamin, please thank Gregory for his help. Let him know it was one of the essential keys to solving this," Gordon said.
       "Of course," Benjamin acknowledged.
       "And make sure you also inform David," Gordon added. "I want to be sure he knows that his assumptions based on Gregory's memory scan were incorrect."
       Benjamin nodded. "I'll see to it."
       "How do you want the Japan bureau to proceed from this point, Gordon-sama?" Yusuke asked.
       "Just as before," Gordon answered. "Continue to leave the Sailor Soldiers to their own purpose."
       "What if we find something they might be more suited to address than we are, Gordon?" Benjamin asked.
       Gordon nodded. "That is a good point. I see no reason why we cannot continue to make use of Mr. Magi as a contact. I believe your bureau can handle that, Yusuke-san?"
       "Certainly, Gordon-sama," Yusuke acknowledged.
       "Well, at least I believe we can consider this matter closed," Gordon said.
       "There is one more thing," Yusuke said. "I would consider it a matter of them doing the reverse of what you have just suggested."
       "What is it?" Benjamin asked.
       "Magi-san mentioned a crystal Roman eagle currently in the possession of Yokohama Central University," Yusuke said. "I told him we were already aware of it and were monitoring it."
       "An energy collector?" Gordon asked.
       Yusuke nodded. "Magi-san had also identified it as such, although he suggested to the archeology professors there that it was a blatant forgery of an as-yet unknown artifact that was probably dumped in Japan because of a glaring error in its manufacture."
       "Error? What error?" Benjamin asked.
       "The inscription records that it was crafted during the reign of the Western emperor, Laurentius," Yusuke said.
       "Of course," Gordon said, nodding. "Laurentius didn't become emperor until the year 683 of the modern calendar."
       "And naturally the archeologists know nothing of him," Benjamin completed.
       "Precisely," Yusuke said. "And I believe he did a very capable job of offering a plausible and rational explanation to cover up its origins." He opened a folder and checked some notes he had made. "Magi-san also said the two former royal advisors of Queen Serenity have been recovering magic artifacts that had been removed to the Dark Kingdom in the wake of the first invasion. With the destruction of the Dark Kingdom, they have been tumbling between dimensions until they reappear here on Earth."
       "That explains much," Gordon said. "We've been getting reports of unexplained appearances in recent weeks."
       "Magi-san says he has a number of artifacts now in his possession," Yusuke continued. "He would like to turn some of them over to us for safe keeping. I have already agreed to make arrangements with him concerning that."
       "Very good," Gordon said approvingly. "You handled your end just as I would expect, Yusuke-san, and Mr. Magi's conduct indicates we should have no serious concerns regarding his willingness to cooperate."

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

       Minako embraced Geoff as they sat together.
       "I definitely don't want to go through that again," she whispered. "I was so scared I was going to lose you."
       He nodded, running his hands gently over her back. "I don't want to go through that again, either." Leaning down, he pressed his lips to hers. "I love you... more than anything."
       "I love you," she sighed.
       "But you know you can't give up being Sailor Venus," he said.
       "I know," she replied.
       "That's part of what you're meant to be," he added.
       She nodded, hugging him tighter. "Just as I'm meant to be your wife."
       "I'm very happy about that," he said, kissing her again.
       "So am I," she said.
       "Shall we go to bed, my lovely Venus?"
       "Definitely," she said, her voice thick with passion.
       "Just don't forget your necklace," he said. "That was one of your father's conditions, remember?"
       She nodded as they stood up.
       He kissed her again, then led her back to their bedroom.

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

       With Kara in bed, Rei and Atana joined Akari in the living room.
       "I take it everything went well," Akari said quietly. "I could sense a very powerful surge of magic."
       "Yes," Rei replied. "Mamoru-san and Usagi used their crystals together. The golden crystal stabilized the ginzuishou, and together they released an intense flare."
       "I'm glad to hear it," Akari said.
       "So are we," Atana agreed, squeezing Rei's hand.
       "We told Usagi about your situation," Rei added. "That was before she and Mamoru-san went into the past. Since they came back, we haven't had a chance to discuss it further."
       "That's alright. There's no hurry," Akari said. She smiled as she looked at them both. "If you'd like, I can listen for Kara if she wakes up during the night, and I can get her up and make her breakfast in the morning."
       "That's very nice of you, Mom," Rei said. "But why?"
       "I just figured you two might want some time alone," Akari replied, gazing at them knowingly.
       Rei blushed. "Uhm... thanks... That would be great."
       "Thank you," Atana said. "I think Rei and I will teleport back to Hawaii." He stood up, helping Rei to her feet, then led her toward their bedroom.
       "Have fun," Akari called.
       "Mom!" Rei protested, deeply embarrassed by the tone in her voice.

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

       Atana held Rei in his arms in their bedroom, kissing her deeply.
       Rei sighed with delight. "You are such a wonderful man."
       He smiled. "A man should always make the woman he loves feel like the most special woman alive," he said. "And you make that so easy for me, my darling."
       "A woman should make the man she loves feel so special, too," she agreed, kissing him in return.
       "You certainly do that," he whispered.
       She grinned, pressing herself to him more closely and feeling his body respond.
       He sighed. "Uhm, we should go home to Hawaii."
       Rei nodded, eagerly anticipating a night alone for just the two of them.
       He glanced at the clock, which showed it was just after eleven o'clock. "Of course it will be just after four in the morning there..."
       "I don't care," she said. "I just want to be alone with the man I love."
       "That works for me," he replied with a grin. He kissed her lips then cast his teleport spell, and they found themselves in their bedroom in Hawaii. With another spell, he lit the two lanterns on the dresser, their low flame casting a soft glow in the darkened room. "So... now we're alone for the night."
       "Yes," she sighed happily.
       He started unbuttoning the shirt she was wearing, gazing lovingly into her eyes. Leaning down, he kissed her lips again.
       She groaned softly as he slipped her shirt off her shoulders, letting it fall to the floor.
       He pressed one hand into the soft, bare flesh of her bottom, while running the other hand over her back.
       She slid her arms around his neck as her naked body seemed to melt in his embrace and his tongue so slowly and sensuously danced with her own. More than anything, she needed to make love to him.
       "Oh, Rei," he sighed.
       She slid her hands up under his shirt, caressing his chest. "I love you."
       "I love you," he whispered.
       She rubbed herself against him, feeling the erect mass of his penis within his pajama pants as she began to work his shirt up.
       He pulled the shirt off over his head, while her hands slowly ran back down over his bare chest.
       Moving back slightly, she grasped the waist of his pants and began working them down. As his pants dropped around his feet, she took his fully erect penis in her hand. "Oh, yes," she sighed. "This is what I want."
       Atana leaned down and pressed his lips to hers. "And you're what I want."
       "Forever and ever," she whispered.
       Atana stepped out of his pants, then scooped her up in his arms.
       Rei gasped at the sudden change in position, but she loved being in his arms. "Are you carrying me off to have your way with me?" she asked with a grin.
       "Something like that," he replied, as he carried her into the bathroom.
       She sensed his magic as he turned on the shower and lit two candles on the vanity.
       He set her down, and in the dim illumination of the candles, they stepped into the shower, the warm spray washing over them.
       She slid her arms around his neck and kissed him once more.
       "You're so beautiful," he whispered, running his fingers through her hair as the spray soaked it.
       "And you're very handsome," she sighed.
       "I'm yours," he said with a smile.
       She nodded with delight, tightening her embrace of him. "And I'm yours, you wonderful man."
       He pressed his lips to hers as the water continued to stream over them. His tongue slipped into her mouth to dance slowly with her own.
       She moaned softly into the kiss as her tongue played with his, and her insides blazed ever hotter. Pressing herself to him, she rubbed against his strong, bare form.
       Taking a breath, he turned her out of the spray, then reached for the shampoo and began to work it into the long strands of her silky soft raven hair. It felt so good to be doing this for the woman he loved.
       "Oh, yes," she sighed as he lathered her hair, as usual feeling the tremendous care and love in his attentions. It was all so very good.
       He smiled, going slowly over the length of her hair. Doing this for her was something he greatly enjoyed. He had been forced to live without her for far too long, but that was all over.
       Looking up into his eyes, she grinned. He was turning her back into the spray and beginning to rinse her hair. She loved the feel of him doing this. With him was just where she belonged, and her life was now so perfectly happy.
       He slowly finished rinsing the lather from her hair, giving that task just as special care.
       As he finished with her hair, Rei reached for the shampoo and began washing his hair. It was a far simpler job since his hair was so short, but she gave it just as much care as he did for her.
       Crouching down, he kissed her. "You are such a wonderful woman."
       She smiled. "And you are such a wonderful man."
       Atana turned into the spray, letting Rei rinse the suds from his hair.
       She kissed him again, then took a step back.
       He reached for the soap and began to softly and lovingly caress her breasts.
       She sighed as his fingers brushed her nipples. Picking up the soap, she ran her hands over his chest.
       "It's good to have time alone together, isn't it?"
       She nodded. "It certainly is."
       He pulled her back into his arms, sweeping the soap over her back, then running his hands down over her bottom.
       She washed his back as they pressed together, feeling his swollen penis against her abdomen. The sensation stoked the fire within her still hotter, only increasing her anticipation for how they were going to spend the rest of the night.
       As the water washed over them, he slid a hand down to her waist, then over her pubic mound, his finger gently stroking her nether lips.
       With a groan, she leaned against him, yearning for still more.
       He slipped his finger through her nether lips.
       "Oh, yes!" she gasped, as his fingertip brushed her jewel. She embraced him, clinging to him as the ministrations of his probing finger made her legs go weak.
       He continued to sweep her still higher, determined to give her as much pleasure as possible. Her entire body was shaking as he held her, stroking her jewel.
       She cried out as she was consumed in orgasm, feeling her body going limp.
       Holding her, he kissed her cheek. "You liked that?"
       "Oh, yes," she whispered, looking up into his eyes.
       "I'm glad." He kissed her again, then turned off the water. With his magic, he dried them both.
       She sighed as they stepped out of the shower together and returned to the bedroom.
       "I could hold you like this forever," he said softly.
       "That is just fine by me," she replied. With her arms around his neck, she rubbed herself against his fully erect penis. "I love you so much."
       "And I love you," he said.
       "I think we need to go to bed, my wonderful Mr. Magi," she said, still rubbing herself against him.
       He grinned and kissed her. Suddenly he remembered something. "Your necklace," he said softly.
       "What about it?" she asked, smiling at him.
       "You left it in Tokyo," he said.
       "So?" she asked.
       "But you haven't worn it since..."
       She put one hand on his mouth and shook her head.
       He looked down into her eyes.
       "I'm ready now," she said softly. She reached up and kissed his lips. "I'm ready now to be your wife... in every way."
       Atana kissed her in return. "Are you sure?"
       Rei nodded. "Not the slightest doubt. I feel just as sure now as we did before."
       He could see it in her eyes and hear it in her voice. For him there wasn't the least question regarding her judgment and her ability to decide for herself.
       "I want it to be tonight," she whispered, running a hand over his chest.
       He nodded, sweeping a hand over her back.
       "Besides, it's the right time," she added with a grin, sliding a hand down to grasp his fully erect penis.
       "Oh, Rei," he groaned.
       As he sat back on the edge of the bed, she knelt between his legs, taking his shaft in her hands. Very slowly, she caressed every bit of it.
       He sighed as she stroked his length. She smiled up at him, her eyes aglow with love and passion. He watched her lean closer, then softly kiss his tip. She slowly licked her lips, then began to gently stroke his shaft with her tongue.
       She grinned inwardly as he groaned. They had all night, and she was in no hurry. Besides, she wanted this to be extra special since this time she wanted more than just passion. She continued to lick him, pausing to again kiss his tip.
       "Oh, darling," he moaned, running his hands through her hair. She was now caressing his sac with one hand, her soft, incredibly sensitive touch driving him crazy.
       Sliding down again, she lovingly kissed one of his balls, then very slowly brushed his shaft with her tongue, moving along his full length toward the tip. At the base of the tip, she went around the base with her tongue, wanting to give the man she loved and was destined to marry just as much pleasure as she possibly could.
       He gasped, feeling like he was already on the brink of exploding from what she was doing to him. His entire body was trembling under her exquisite touch.
       Sensing how close he was, she enveloped his tip in her mouth and began to gently suck him while stroking his shaft with both hands.
       "Oh, Rei," he whispered, now feeling disconnected from all sensation except his tip within the warm, silky wet embrace of her mouth as she brushed it with her tongue.
       She stroked his shaft still more forcefully, feeling him fast approaching his climax.
       He groaned as the spasm swelled unstoppably within him. Knowing both that she could recognize the signs as well as he could and that she wouldn't even consider pulling away, he just leaned back on his arms as the spasm took away conscious control.
       Feeling his shaft swelling and throbbing wildly in her hands, she pressed her lips around him still more tightly, just in time for the first surge that ran the length of his penis, propelling a long burst of his fluid into her mouth. As she gulped it down, it was followed by another and still another.
       He struggled for breath as she sucked his tip for the last of his residue, then swept his tip with her tongue.
       "I take it you enjoyed that," she said softly, grinning.
       He nodded. "What about you?"
       "Of course," she said, kissing his tip again. "I always enjoy making the man I love feel good." Moving up, she kissed him just below his navel.
       "And I love you," he sighed.
       She slid up a bit further, kissing him at the base of his ribs. Moving up still more, she took one of his nipples in her mouth.
       He groaned in response, his body shaking.
       As he lay back on the bed, she pressed her lips to his. Her tongue softly brushed his lips, then slid into his mouth.
       He grasped her bottom with one hand, while running the other across her back as their tongues continued their slow, passionate dance.
       Taking a breath, Rei gazed deep into his eyes and brushed her fingers through his very short, close cut hair. With a smile, she kissed his chin, then slowly worked her way down his neck. At the base of his neck, she softly brushed his flesh with her tongue, feeling him squirm slightly.
       He enfolded her tightly in his arms and pressed his lips into the soft, silky strands of her hair. "My lovely Mrs. Magi," he sighed.
       "My wonderful man," she whispered.
       He rolled her over, bringing himself on top of her. Leaning down, he began to very lightly brush his tongue over one of her erect nipples, while caressing the other one with his fingers.
       She sighed as bursts of pleasure swept outward from her nipples. Suddenly, he pressed his mouth over her nipple and he began to suck at it, bringing a sharp groan from her as she enfolded him tightly with her arms.
       He circled her aureole with his tongue, then opened his mouth wide, pressing his lips to the soft, smooth flesh of her breast, sucking as he drew back to her nipple. When he reached the erect tip, he pressed it with his lips. At the same time, he squeezed her other nipple with his fingers.
       "Oh, yes," she gasped. Her insides were blazing hot with her desperate hunger for him. He had such a masterful, utterly flawless touch with her body, driving her wild. The fates had made them only for each other, intending them to be joined together into a much greater whole. Knowing that, she continued to hold him tightly with her arms as he showered his loving attentions on her ever so aroused breasts.
       Atana softly kissed her between her breasts, then moved up and pressed his lips to hers, plunging his tongue into her mouth. Everything in his life was just perfect now that they were together again. He loved her more than anything and was determined to make certain she never forgot that.
       Rei ran her hands through his hair as their tongues continued their passionate dance. With a soft moan, she let her tongue advance into his mouth. It felt so good, even as it stoked the fire within ever hotter.
       Breaking the kiss, he gasped for breath. "Oh, wow... You take my breath away, my lovely Mrs. Magi."
       "You do the same for me... my gorgeous Mr. Magi," she whispered breathlessly.
       He smiled, then leaned down and kissed her chin. Sliding down, he kissed both her nipples, before leaving a trail of soft kisses across her abdomen.
       She groaned as he spread her legs open and planted a kiss on her pubic mound.
       "I love you," he said softly, as he crouched down between her legs. He kissed her nether lips, then gently slid his tongue into her.
       She gasped as his tongue began to probe her insides. Soft tremors ran through her. He drew his tongue back and stroked her lips. Very slowly he swept upward, until finally he reached her swollen, hyper-sensitive jewel. At the first touch, she cried out sharply and her entire body shook.
       He kissed her nether lips again, then returned his attentions to her swollen pleasure point. As she shook and cried out in response, he could taste more of her love honey emerging from her. After several strokes, he pulled back for a breath and kissed her lips once more.
       She groaned in frustration as he seemed to be deliberately avoiding letting her soar to climax. His tongue again caressed her jewel, sweeping her upward again, but just as she seemed to be nearing her peak, he backed off.
       Kissing her nether lips yet again, he could sense her frustration, but she had kept him going so it only seemed right to return the favor.
       "Oh, gods!" she cried, as his tongue sent such intense waves of pleasure surging through her. "Oh, yes!" This time, he didn't seem to be backing off, and with his changing speed and pattern he was driving her utterly wild. She cried out again and again as it became simply unbearable. Just then, she was consumed in the white-hot flame of orgasm. "OOOHHH, YYEEESSSS!!"
       He softly kissed her pubic mound, then moved up over her. "I love you, Mrs. Magi."
       "I love you," she sighed in purest joy.
       He kissed her nipples again, then drew her up off the bed, embracing her firmly.
       She sighed with delight, pressing her lips to his.
       With a spell, he turned the bed down, then looked deep into her eyes. "Are you sure about this? Really sure?"
       She nodded. "Without a doubt," she said softly, kissing him again.
       As he lay her down on their bed, he could feel their magic already beginning to swirl together.
       She felt it too, sighing in delight.
       Their bodies seemed to take on a slight glow, and as he gazed down at her, he could see the sign of Mars appear on her forehead, growing steadily brighter.
       "Oh, you wonderful man," she sighed as he settled between her spread legs.
       "You are such a beautiful young woman," he whispered. He opened himself to more of the natural magic of that place, instantly feeling the flame within him increasing.
       "And all yours," she said with a grin, enfolding him with her arms and her legs. Already, she could sense the still more powerful surge of magic coming from him. His fully swollen tip was rubbing against her nether lips, slowly spreading her open. As his tip pressed into her, she felt raw, living fire surging through her, greatly amplifying the already intense pleasure she was experiencing.
       Feeling it too, he kissed her lips, then buried his manhood fully within her.
       "Oh, yes!" she gasped in delight, pressing her hands into his bottom as she enjoyed the wondrous sensation of being so perfectly filled by his mass.
       Atana kissed her again, then very slowly slid back.
       Rei groaned at the feel of his magnificent shaft moving within her, filling her with such joy. As she smiled lovingly at him, he thrust forward, taking her breath away.
       "You're so beautiful," he whispered, their combined magic amplifying his sensations as well.
       She clung to him tightly, feeling like they had been completely conjoined as one. Running a hand over his back, she gasped softly as he continued to plunge in and out of her, making her feel so incredibly good.
       He could both see and feel her joy. His penis was throbbing within her warm, snug embrace. They were made for each other, and made to be joined this way. Fire seemed to be blazing freely through both of them as their magic combined. With their bodies glowing, it even seemed as if they were actually enveloped in flame, although he retained enough awareness to know that it wasn't real flame.
       She sensed it too, even as she cried out in purest joy. It was just so perfect, and that was precisely how she wanted it to be on this occasion. He was everything to her, and she felt like she hadn't known true happiness until she had been reunited with him, for each contained a missing piece of the other. Now, just as had happened in her past life, their love had joined them so completely that it was time for them to make a new product of that love, a new piece of them both. Her own age didn't matter now, just as it hadn't mattered in the past. Now there could be no holding back, no reservation. There was just the total sharing of their two bodies in the highest possible expression of their love for each other. That love was all that mattered now, for it had once again brought them to this point.
       He was feeling it too as he thrust steadily in and out, but their couplings had always been more about the physical union of two lovers whose souls were already joined than just mindless passion. Kissing her lips, he too recognized that their relationship had again reached the depth they had achieved in the past. As he drove forward once more, he shifted position.
       She cried out, his shaft stroking her g-spot and sweeping her over the edge into climax. The fire shared between them seemed to be growing still stronger. His penis continued to plunge in and out, filling her with such indescribable pleasure. She clung to him tightly, knowing he was everything she wanted and needed.
       He kissed her cheek as he pushed himself on. It felt so good being physically joined like this, and he was in no hurry to stop. She was just the only woman for him.
       She ran her hands over his back, while pushing up through her hips to meet his every thrust. As his wonderful shaft plunged inside her, he was sweeping her rapidly toward the edge once more. "Oh, yes," she gasped. "Oh, my love... Oh, yes... Oh, gods!" Once more, the intense wave of orgasm crashed over her and she cried out wordlessly in pure ecstasy.
       "Oh, Rei," he groaned, as her insides clamped down in spasm around his throbbing penis.
       "So... wonderful," she gasped, looking up into his eyes.
       "You certainly are," he replied breathlessly.
       "I'm yours," she whispered.
       "Just as I'm yours," he agreed.
       "Oh, yes!" she gasped, as he thrust into her still harder. His next thrust sent her over the edge yet again. "OOOHHH, YYEEESSSS!!"
       Kissing her lips and her cheeks in between gasps for breath, he continued to thrust forward, his body largely on autopilot. He could sense both her joy and her eager anticipation. These were the only things that mattered to him.
       She gasped and cried out repeatedly as her body moved in perfect unison with his. The fire within their perfectly conjoined bodies was so intense she could hardly think straight, and she had lost all track of how long they had been going. In the back of her mind, however, there remained that anticipation of what was coming, and of how entirely she wanted it.
       As their exquisitely beautiful love-making continued to run its course, her eyes seemed aglow with the fire within her, while the sign of Mars on her forehead shone brightly. His own body was beginning to tremble as at last even their combined magic could keep him going no longer. The final spasm began to swell unstoppably within him, slowly but inexorably stripping him of control of his muscles. His penis throbbed wildly and began to swell within her snug, loving embrace.
       She cried out as she felt it, now so perfectly familiar with every detail of his body. In that instant, she was consumed in mind-blowing climax just as he plunged ever so deep within her and erupted. At the same instant, the most intense surge of magic burst through her, filling her with raw fire. She clung to him as tears of indescribable joy ran from her eyes.
       He groaned as his entire body continued to quiver, propelling his seed into the depths of her womb and filling her with his magic. Taking a breath, he then pressed his lips tightly to hers, knowing he wanted this just as much as she did.
       Rei ran her hands through Atana's hair as they kissed. She could feel his warmth spreading through her, and she offered a silent prayer that nature would take its course. Of her desires for the future, her strongest was to be a loving wife and mother. Because of her past life, she had discovered she effectively already was, but now it was entirely her choice. She hadn't been sure she was ready before, but now she was.
       "Oh, my beautiful Mrs. Magi," he whispered.
       She grinned at him, still crying in purest joy. "That's just who I am... my wonderful Mr. Magi," she said. "And I couldn't possibly be happier."
       "Neither could I," he said, pressing his lips to hers.
       As their lips separated, she wiped her eyes. "I love you... so much."
       "I love you," he whispered.
       "How did I get so lucky to deserve such a wonderful man?" she asked softly.
       "I was wondering how I came to deserve such an incredibly wonderful young woman," he said.
       "I'm a wife and mother," she said, smiling happily.
       He nodded.
       "Because that's what I want to be, more than anything else," she added.
       "That's just how it should be," he said, kissing her. "It has to be your choice."
       "It is my choice," she said, kissing him in return. "It was my choice to accept your proposal, my love. And it's my choice that I'm ready to have another child."
       "And my choice is that I'm ready when you're ready," he said.
       "You are such a wonderful man," she sighed.
       He smiled at her lovingly, then slowly began to ease himself out of her.
       She groaned softly at the loss of his warm mass, but as he lay down, she immediately rolled over and snuggled tightly against him, her arm across his chest.
       "Shall we go to sleep?" he suggested.
       She nodded. "I know I'm not going to have any trouble falling asleep now," she sighed.
       He extinguished the lanterns with a spell, then closed his eyes.

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

       Rei and Atana walked down to the beach. The air was rather cool, but the still naked couple didn't care. They spread out a large beach blanket and lay down, then spread a second over themselves. As they happily snuggled together, the first streaks of dawn were beginning to spread across the sky.
       She sighed happily. "I love you so much."
       "I love you," he whispered.
       She kissed his cheek. "Are you hoping for a boy this time?"
       He smiled. "I just want healthy and happy."
       She laughed softly, gazing up at the slowly brightening sky. "It's so lovely," she whispered.
       "You certainly are," he said, kissing her cheek as he gently ran a hand over her abdomen.
       "You're such a wonderful man," she sighed. She placed her hand on his. "Do you think we were successful?"
       "I don't know," he replied. "If I remember correctly, I don't think fertilization happens this quickly. Maybe by tomorrow Ami's scanner could tell if that has happened, although the egg won't have implanted itself yet, but any regular test probably won't be able to tell for about two weeks." He slid his hand up to caress her breast.
       She groaned softly as bursts of pleasure radiated outward from her nipple.
       With a smile, he kissed her cheek again as he continued to caress her breast.
       "If we don't know yet, maybe that means..." She suddenly moved astride him. "...we should keep trying until we are sure." Feeling his tip against her nether lips, she began to push back onto it.
       "Whatever you want, my lovely Mrs. Magi," he said, gently grasping her hips as she slowly took him back inside herself.
       She sighed with purest delight as his warm mass again filled up her womanhood so perfectly and their magic again flowed freely between them. "You're what I want the most."

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

       It was early when Ryo awoke. He could feel the bare body of his own fiancee next to him. A smile spread across his face as he knew this was just where he belonged. Leaning over, he kissed her cheek.
       Ami sighed at the contact, snuggling closer.
       He held her close, one arm wrapped around her. Glancing over at the nightstand, he saw her necklace, which she still had not made use of. As he looked at it, fresh images swirled across his psychic sense.
       She slowly opened her eyes. "Good morning, my love," she whispered.
       "Good morning," he said softly.
       She shifted position, kissing his lips. "I love waking up in your arms like this."
       "So do I," he agreed.
       She felt his erect penis against her leg. "Hmmm. I see someone is in a good mood."
       "You frequently put me in such a mood, my lovely girl genius," he said.
       She kissed him again. "And I intend to keep on doing it."
       "I think we need to talk about your necklace first," he said softly.
       She looked into his eyes. "You don't think we're ready?"
       "That's not it," he said, shaking his head. "It's just... Well... It looks like Rei-chan and Atana-san are trying for another child... or will be very shortly... And based on what I'm seeing right now, they're very likely to succeed."
       Ami nodded. "I'm very happy for them."
       "That will put a second Senshi into temporary retirement," he pointed out. "I'm seeing an image of Rei-chan visibly pregnant while Usagi-chan is still..."
       "Yes, I see," she agreed. "We can't afford to have all of us pregnant at once."
       He nodded.
       "OK. We can wait until after Usagi's twins are born," she said, reaching for her necklace. "And I guess I'd better discuss this with Minako-chan and Mako-chan."

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

       Shinozaki emerged from the bathroom to find Makoto holding her communicator.
       "Has something come up?" he asked.
       "Nothing serious," she said. "Ami-chan called. Ryo thinks it's very likely Rei-chan and Atana-san are going to have another child."
       "OK," he acknowledged. "Shouldn't we let them share that news?"
       "I'm guessing Ami-chan and Ryo-kun were considering it too," Makoto added.
       "Did we need to know that?" Shinozaki asked. "Seems more than a little personal."
       "Ami-chan is concerned that we're going to be down to just three active Senshi, and wanted to be sure the number didn't go down any further," she said. "Minako-chan agrees with her about that."
       He nodded in understanding. "Well, you and I haven't been considering it... Unless you just haven't told me yet."
       She shook her head. "That's something for us to decide together, and no, I haven't been considering it yet. And Minako-chan is still in the probation period her father gave her for living with Geoff-san. One of the conditions of that is that she can't get pregnant."
       "Sounds like everything is under control then," he said. "But I guess once Rei-chan makes her announcement, you, Ami-chan, and Minako-chan will have to resume training with Luna and Artemis."
       "Yes, I think so," she said.

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

       Atana and Rei were together on the deck of his house, looking down the slope toward the ocean. She sat on a bench, wearing the shirt she had worn the night before, while he stood behind her, wearing his t-shirt and pajama pants. Standing there, he was slowly brushing her hair.
       "I love you," she sighed softly, enjoying the feel of him brushing her hair.
       "I love you," he said, pausing to lean down and kiss her cheek.
       "It's probably too soon to say anything to Kara," she said.
       He nodded. "We should wait on that until we're sure," he said. "And you'll have to tell your friends, since being pregnant will prevent you from transforming into Sailor Mars."
       "Yes, I know," she said. "And Usagi's twins aren't due until early May, and then another two months for her to fully recover from her c-section..."
       "That's correct," he acknowledged. "And from what we saw with her experience, if we've already succeeded, you could lose your ability to transform in perhaps as little as six weeks."
       Rei nodded. "But this is the right time for us as a family."
       "I know, and I'm not arguing about that," he said. "Being a Sailor Senshi doesn't mean you can't have a child, but you do have to let your friends know if you won't be able to use your powers for a while."
       "Yes," she agreed. "And I will." She sighed. "Hopefully no new threat will turn up and it won't be an issue."
       "I hope so too," he said. "But maybe we should consider having you learn more magic. We could build on the talents you already have. At least that way you could defend yourself if a threat does turn up."
       "That might be a good idea," she said.
       He set down the hair brush and kissed her again. "We should think about going back. It's almost time for Kara to be getting up."

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

       Akari was just leaving the bathroom after dressing when she sensed a faint pulse of magic that indicated Rei and Atana had just returned. Moments later, the door to their bedroom opened.
       "Welcome home," Akari said. "Did you have a good time?"
       "Yes, we did," Atana replied. "Thank you."
       Akari nodded with a smile. "I'm glad to hear it."
       "How about Kara?" Rei asked.
       "She's still asleep," Akari replied.
       They sat down in the living room.
       Akari studied her daughter closely. "So, I take it Kara will be getting a sibling in the near future."
       Rei blushed, then nodded. "Well... Yes. We, uhm, we decided we're ready."
       "I'm very happy for you both," Akari said with a grin, giving Rei a hug.
       "But we don't know for sure yet," Atana said. "And we're certainly not ready to tell Kara."
       "I understand," Akari said. "I wouldn't think of mentioning it until you had told her." She paused for a moment and looked at Rei. "What about your grandfather?"
       "I'm not going to tell him until we're certain," Rei answered.
       Akari nodded.
       Just then, they heard a faint noise from Kara's room. The door opened and the little girl emerged.
       "Mommy! Daddy!" Kara called, climbing into Rei's lap.
       "Good morning, honey," Rei said, embracing her.
       "Did you sleep well?" Atana asked.
       Kara nodded.
       "That's good," he said. "Because your mommy and I are planning to spend the entire day with you."
       "Yay!" Kara cheered, sliding over to hug him.

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

       Usagi stood in one of the fitting rooms at Miyasato's shop. Her hair, with the help of her disguise pen, was now piled atop her head in a traditional style, only the fact that it was golden blond making it look unusual, and she was dressed in her wedding kimono. Togashi-san, the chief women's tailor, and her assistant, Sunohara-san, were again assisting her.
       "Excellent, Tsukino-san," Togashi pronounced, checking the measurements again. "Everything looks correct."
       Usagi nodded, looking at herself in the mirror. "It's so beautiful."
       "I think the woman wearing it is beautiful," Mamoru said, smiling happily.
       "So, is it complete?" Usagi asked.
       "No," Togashi answered, shaking her head. "Several of the tailoring details are only rough stitched, in case we needed to make further adjustments. Fortunately, we aren't very busy at the moment, so we should be able to finalize it this afternoon and have it ready for you to pick up tomorrow."
       "That's great," Usagi said.
       Togashi moved closer and began to assist Usagi in removing the kimono. "Sunohara-san, please bring in Tsukino-san's wedding gown. We'll check the fit of that next."
       "Yes, Togashi-san," Sunohara acknowledged.

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

       Later than afternoon, Usagi and Mamoru walked through the park, seeing Atana and Rei with Kara at the playground. Despite the cool weather, Kara was happily crawling all over the jungle gym. Akari was walking by herself down a side path. They turned to join her.
       "Good afternoon, Akari-san," Usagi called.
       Akari turned. "Good afternoon, Usagi-san. Mamoru-san."
       "Rei-chan told us about what happened to you," Usagi said softly.
       "Yes, I know," Akari replied. "I wasn't looking for it to happen, but I certainly don't object."
       Usagi nodded. "I'm not sure what I can do... but I am pretty sure I wouldn't be able to undo it."
       "I understand," Akari said. "Right now, the concern is how to establish a legal identity for me. Atana-san says an assimilation spell is what is needed, whatever we decide as to what identity to establish, but that such a spell is beyond his abilities."
       "That is what provided for his identity in this era?' Mamoru asked.
       "Yes," Akari confirmed. "But he says it was Queen Serenity who arranged it. He didn't plan for it himself."
       "So it would take the golden crystal or the ginzuishou, which means Mamo-chan or I would have to do it," Usagi said.
       Akari nodded.
       "Atana-san said you had discussed the possibility of recreating your identity as Rika-san," Mamoru said.
       "Yes," Akari confirmed. "That would preserve my relationship with Rei and with Kara-chan, and I cannot go near my father - Rei's grandfather - in this form. Of course there are difficulties with that, but probably similar difficulties with any other option."
       "We'd have to alter the memories of a lot of people," Mamoru said. "But that is what the assimilation spell did for Atana-san."
       "And it's what mother did when she tried to erase all trace of the Dark Kingdom," Usagi added.
       "True," Akari conceded.
       "And there is no way to establish a new identity for you without creating some sort of fake history to go with it," Mamoru agreed.
       "Yes. We were thinking the same thing," Akari said.
       Usagi nodded. "And restoring you as Rika-san is the best option," she said softly.
       "That would restore you as Rei's legal guardian," Mamoru observed. "Your father is planning to consent to Rei marrying Atana..."
       "I know," Akari said. "I convinced him to do that... But at that time I never imagined I would find myself restored to a mortal life... Restoring me as Rika means I would be the one to give the consent. I understand that, but of course I have no problem with it."
       "What would you have done if you had lived... as Rika-san, I mean," Mamoru asked. "We'd need some idea for a history for you."
       Akari nodded in understanding. "I did some writing before I got sick, and probably would have continued that... My father had suggested I consider the priesthood, mostly I think because he wanted a family member to follow him, but as much as I enjoyed assisting him as a miko, I never felt a calling to the priesthood."
       "That's a start," Usagi said. "But I will probably have to ask mother how to go about doing this. I certainly don't want to mess it up."

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

       Geoff opened the door to his apartment. "Hi, my lovely Venus," he called.
       Minako embraced him. "Hi, my love." She pressed her lips to his. She saw the large manila envelope he was holding. "What's that?"
       "This is the information from the education department," he said. "Hiranori-sensei told me there are two home-school programs that have the range to cover what you all need, and he recommends one in particular. I'll need to pass this on to Ami-san and Ryo-san later."
       "That's great," Minako said. "Uhm, while you were out, my father called."
       They sat down in the living room.
       "Really? Is anything wrong?" he asked.
       "He said something had come up, and he wants to discuss it with us over dinner tomorrow night," she replied.
       "That sounds a little ominous," he said.
       "Well, actually he said it was something about his business," she added. "It didn't sound like it was about us."
       "Well, tomorrow is Christmas Eve, and we were planning on having dinner with them anyway," he said.
       "That's true," she agreed.
       "Just what does he do, anyway?" he asked. "You've never really told me, and when we met him before, he didn't really discuss it."
       "He's a partner in a securities company," she said. "They cater to Japanese business executives working abroad."
       "That's why he had that job in Britain?"
       Minako nodded. "There was some sort of problem there, so he agreed to take charge of that operation and get it sorted out. It was supposed to be for a year, but it took longer than expected to line up someone to take over the operation, so he ended up being there almost two years."
       "A job like that must pay pretty well," Geoff commented. "But you've said your mother wasn't all that happy with what he does."
       "She wasn't happy to be away from home for so long, and I think she expects him, as one of the senior partners, to work from a corner office here in Tokyo," she said.
       He nodded in understanding.
       "But Daddy speaks several languages, and he knows the foreign markets, so he is kind of the designated trouble-shooter," she said.
       He looked at her for a moment, a chill running through him. "You said it had to do with his business... Maybe he's been called out of the country again."
       "Oh, gods," she gasped, suddenly feeling her stomach churning. "I hope not."

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

       Usagi, again attired in her princess gown, knelt on the floor of their living room. Mamoru sat next to her. The ginzuishou glowed softly. In just a moment, a silver glow appeared in front of them, which coalesced into the form of Queen Serenity.
       "Hello, my dear ones," Queen Serenity greeted them.
       "Hello, mother," Usagi said. "I need your advice."
       Queen Serenity nodded. "How may I help you?"
       "When I restored the Earth, I inadvertently restored Akari to mortal existence," Usagi explained. "Now we need to be able to create a legal identity for her in this era. Atana had suggested an assimilation spell, but he said it is beyond his abilities, and that you provided for his assimilation."
       "That is true," Queen Serenity said. "And you are sure this is the best solution?"
       "It seems to be the only solution," Usagi said. "If she is going to live in this time, she naturally wants to preserve her relationship to Rei and Kara."
       "Yes, I understand. But what you intend is not easy, and can be prone to mistakes," Queen Serenity said.
       "You don't think we should do it?" Usagi asked.
       Serenity shook her head. "I merely urge caution. Of course I want what is best for Akari."
       A second, much larger glow appeared, forming into the tall figure of the goddess of the Moon. As before, her platinum hair seemed to glow, and her crescent moon shone so brightly it seemed to obscure her face.
       "Great mother," Queen Serenity exclaimed softly.
       She nodded slightly. "We did not wish to intrude upon your conversation, but we have some information for our latest form that will directly concern the decision you must make."
       "You do?" Usagi asked.
       The goddess nodded. "We are still not on speaking terms with the god of the fire, but at one time we were all fellow guardians. For that reason, we still have special consideration for one of that god's successors."
       "Akari-san, you mean," Usagi said.
       "Yes," the goddess confirmed. "We must admit that we share a major part of the fault for this situation. It was the boost we gave to you, our current form, that made it possible for you to restore our world. Without that, your crystal would not have restored this woman. And as with you, it did not occur to us either that there might be one who properly should remain a spirit."
       "But not even you are able to know everything, great mother," Queen Serenity observed.
       "True," the goddess agreed. "But in this case, we and our latest form have unknowingly been instruments in the hands of the fates to bring about one of their purposes."
       "Restoring Akari-san to mortal life?" Usagi asked.
       The goddess nodded. "We cannot go into too much detail, for that would deprive you, our latest form, of the freedom of choice, but we are particularly concerned with those whose spirits are meant to be joined. Ours was meant to be joined with a mortal man, as is that of our latest form."
       "For Akari, that would be the father of Princess Rei of Mars," Mamoru said.
       "Very good, guardian of Earth," the goddess said with a smile.
       "Gorin of Mars has been reincarnated in this era?" Queen Serenity asked.
       "Yes," the goddess confirmed. "It is intended that they, too, should have another chance. And thus we have been made the instruments to make that possible."
       "But the best option for Akari is to restore her to the life she had in this era," Usagi said.
       "We believe the fates were aware of that," the goddess replied. "You should act quickly, if you are willing. We can guide you in what needs to be done."
       Usagi nodded, grateful not to have to try to do it alone. "I must call her first," she said. She produced her communicator. "Rei-chan?"
       "Yes, Usagi," Rei replied after a moment.
       "Is your mother there?" Usagi asked. "I need to speak with her."
       "Just a moment," Rei said.
       "Hello, Usagi-san," Akari said.
       "Akari-san, are you willing to have the assimilation cast right now?" Usagi asked. "The goddess of the Moon is willing to guide me through it, and I would feel much better doing it with her help."
       "I understand," Akari replied. "You still plan to restore me as Rika?"
       "Yes," Usagi said. "Ah... that still seems to be the best plan."
       "Fine. I'm ready whenever you are," Akari said.
       Usagi set down her communicator.
       "You and your young man open your minds to each other," the goddess instructed.
       Usagi placed her hand in Mamoru's, and they let their link open up. Both their bodies began to glow with the energy of their respective crystals, and they could feel the goddess gently guiding the flow of the energy. As it flowed outward, they could sense Akari. She too had opened her mind, letting the magic wash over her. The power swelled still more and in their minds they could vaguely sense an alternate history taking shape, beginning with Rika's cancer being discovered earlier and successfully treated, then continuing forward. Though the passage of years was taking place in only minutes, it was still clear to them that they were observing Hirano Rika as she might have been, and that everything they were seeing Rika do was her own response to this new sequence of events. When the sequence reached the present, an intense wave of energy burst outward, changing memories and records so that none would know the fiction was not real.
       As the power faded, Usagi and Mamoru held on to each other through their link, both feeling physically drained. The goddess had withdrawn her influence, leaving them struggling to fully comprehend the enormity of what they had just managed to do.
       Their silent shared reflection was interrupted by Usagi's communicator as Rei called to say her mother was fine and everything had gone well.
       Putting down the communicator, Usagi took a breath. While happy for Rei and her mother, she still felt ill at ease at tinkering with memories and perceptions this way. She could sense the same from Mamoru. "I didn't like doing that..."
       "I know, my dear," Queen Serenity said softly. "But sometimes these things are necessary. All you can do is keep your focus on helping others. You did this for Akari, for Rei and Kara, and for the reincarnation of Gorin of Mars."
       The goddess nodded. "And our form, your mother, might have also added that she used our power and that of the silver crystal not for herself but for everyone else. Certainly none could fault her for wishing to assume a new life on Earth in this era so that she could be your mother in this life as well... but she did not."
       "M, mother," Usagi whispered, wiping away a tear.
       "This was how it needed to be," Queen Serenity said. "I needed to play a different role for you, so that you could come to assume your role."
       "My role," Usagi said softly.
       "Our current form does not have to be a ruler," the goddess said. "As in the ancient times, you and your friends are called only to bear the responsibility of guardian. When there is no threat to face, you are able to live your lives simply for yourselves."
       "That was all I ever wanted for you, my daughter," Queen Serenity added.
       Nodding, Usagi smiled and embraced Mamoru, knowing she had found such perfect happiness with him, and that her friends deserved the same.

< To be continued >

* * * * * * * * * * * *
NOTE: I already anticipate some heat regarding Rei and Atana's decision. I can only remind readers that including a story element here does not mean recommending it in a real-world situation.

Hopeless Romantic and I now 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.

-12.24.2012