That Special Magic 80

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 80 - The Night Before... <
       It was not yet five o'clock in the morning when assistant prosecutor Suematsu Satoshi emerged from the elevator and walked past the many staff desks toward his own office. Ahead of him, he saw Sakurada Natsuna, the superintendent-general of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Board, and Iwaki Kiichi, deputy director of the Organized Crime Department of the National Police Agency's Criminal Investigation Bureau.
       "Good morning, Suematsu-san," Sakurada greeted him. She was smiling brightly.
       "Good morning," Iwaki echoed.
       Suematsu nodded. "So... she's dead?"
       Sakurada nodded. "Without a doubt. My officers saw her get on the yacht, and she didn't get back off. The Kanto Regional Police Bureau was able to arrange for an unmarked boat to shadow the yacht, and they witnessed the explosion. They reported that the yacht did not meet up with any other vessels, so there was no opportunity for anyone to have gotten off. Given the water temperature last night, anyone who went overboard wouldn't have lasted more than about thirty minutes, and in any case, our boat was the only one close enough to swim to."
       "Based on the reports, we concur," Iwaki said.
       Suematsu nodded.
       Just then, a young staffer hurried over, holding several sheets of paper fresh from one of the laser printers. "Suematsu-san. This was just posted on the website of the Tokyo Morning News."
       "Can it wait?" Suematsu asked impatiently.
       "It concerns the daimyo investigation, sir," the staffer answered. "Your instructions were..."
       "Yes, yes. Very well." Setting down his briefcase, Suematsu retrieved his glasses from his jacket pocket, then took the papers. "This better be..." His expression hardened as he skimmed the article and the accompanying photos. Pulling his glasses off, he flipped the top paper around and held it up for Sakurada and Iwaki. "Explain this," he demanded.
       The other two glanced at the article, then looked at each other, now visibly uncomfortable.
       "She's dead, you told me," Suematsu said, his voice a low growl, as he leaned closer to Sakurada. "Your exact words were 'you can scratch the daimyo off your list' I do believe." He looked at the photos again. "Then just how is it that less than an hour after her yacht blows up with her supposedly on board, a Tokyo Morning News reporter sees her getting off one of her personal helicopters in Awa?"
       "I... I don't know," Sakurada stammered.
       Slipping his glasses back on, Suematsu looked at the article again. "These reporters cite sources within the Tokyo Metropolitan Police who insist she was seen getting on the yacht, but given that she was seen later, still very much alive, the reporters conclude you were taken by a decoy, superintendent." He yanked his glasses back off and glared at her.
       "I, uhm... I... I'm afraid I can't dispute their conclusion," she answered.
       Suematsu turned on Iwaki. "And did you have her potential bolt holes covered, in case this was just a trick?"
       "No," Iwaki replied. "We... ah... We had no reason to suspect it wasn't, uhm, what it appeared to be."
       "But you were the one, Iwaki-san, who told me two years ago that things are almost never what they seem with this woman," Suematsu countered.
       Iwaki hesitated, then nodded.
       "You realize this couldn't have come at a worse time," Suematsu said. "It took the media to give us our break on Hino. Because that lead gave us the full goods on Hino, one of the daimyo's subordinates panicked and tried to kill him, which is the only reason we obtained all of Hino's files and our biggest break against organized crime in decades. And now we're indebted to the media again to find out the daimyo didn't get blown up with her yacht. Why are we even pretending to conduct our own investigation?"
       Sakurada's cell phone began to ring. She pulled it from her pocket. "Sakurada... Yes, Wakagi-san. I've just seen it... No. We must consider the report to be accurate. Masuzoe wants us all to believe she's dead... Yes. Call the chief of the special task force. We need to quickly identify who is fronting for her now, and how much of an operation they still have since she appears to have just killed off most of her lieutenants... What?... The governor's office?" She sighed and rolled her eyes. "Call them back. I will call as soon as I can. Tell them we had no reason at the time to doubt the initial reports, but assure them we never regarded the possibility of her death as sufficient to suspend our investigation into the criminal organization itself... That's correct... Yes. I'll be in touch."
       As Sakurada was talking, Iwaki pulled out his own phone and punched in a number. "Eda-san, this is Iwaki. Have you seen this morning's Tokyo Morning News?... The daimyo is alive... Yes, one of their reporters saw her leaving her private helicopter in Awa... That's correct. Contact Kanto Region and Chiba Prefecture to arrange surveillance of the house in Minamiboso. That's the most likely place for her to hole up... No! Are you out of your mind? Just surveillance. You know full well Hino's files don't specifically name her. That means we don't have enough evidence for an arrest... That's right... Superintendent Sakurada has just ordered Tokyo Metro's special task force to determine who is serving as the new figurehead and how much of an organization they have left. Coordinate with them. I want to make sure there isn't even the appearance of our investigation shutting down because of last night... That's right... And inform Director Tani-san. I'm sure his phone must be ringing by now... I'll be in the office shortly." He disconnected the call and returned his phone to his pocket.
       "Nicely done," Suematsu said, with a touch of sarcasm. "Let's hope it's enough."
       "But why don't Hino's files name her?" Sakurada wondered. "Was he that scared of her?"
       "Possibly," Iwaki replied. "But it's also likely she never allowed any face-to-face meetings with him. We're pretty sure she only meets personally with her most trusted subordinates. Hino certainly didn't rate that high."
       Suematsu's secretary approached. "Sir, the chief prosecutor is holding for you on line one. He says it is urgent."
       "Of course he does," Suematsu sighed, still glaring angrily at Sakurada and Iwaki. "I'm sure he's seen this too."
       "And, ah, the deputy minister is holding as well," the secretary added.
       Suematsu cringed. "Let me tell you two something. Having your names bandied about the Cabinet Room by politicians already upset at having to cut short their holiday break does absolutely nothing to promote one's job security. But that is exactly what is going to be happening later this morning."
       Sakurada Natsuna felt a shiver run through her. Given that she was both the youngest person and the first woman to serve as superintendent-general of the Metropolitan Police Board, her position had always been in some measure of jeopardy, but being part of a failure on this scale could very likely end her career. She just had to hope that the investigation brought down enough of the daimyo's network that this particular incident wouldn't retain any real significance.
       Iwaki too was realizing the implications. He was still eight years away from retirement, but if the daimyo's escape did prove a major event, he strongly suspected that in the next few months he could begin to hear suggestions that, for the good of the Agency, he should do the honorable thing and resign.
       Suematsu reached for his office door, pausing to look back at his secretary. "I'll take the chief prosecutor first. Tell the deputy minister the chief collared me first, and I will call back."
       "Yes, sir," she acknowledged.

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

       Minako came out of the bathroom, brushing her hair, being met with the smell of coffee brewing. She was still not that fond of the drink, but she knew Geoff liked it. Walking into the living room, she found him sitting on the floor, having just switched on the stereo. "What's this?"
       "Just a little tradition from my family," he said. "This is something we'd always do on Christmas Eve day. I hope you don't mind."
       "Why should I mind?" she asked. "What is it? Christmas music?"
       He nodded, then pressed the button to start a tape playing. In just a moment, the high, clear voice of a young boy came from the speakers, singing the opening line of 'Once in Royal David's City' without accompaniment.
       She sat down next to him, only vaguely familiar with the hymn. Picking up the tape case, she looked at the handwritten title on the cover. "Lessons and Carols from King's?"
       Geoff nodded. "The choir of King's College Chapel, Cambridge University. They do a festival of lessons and carols every year on Christmas Eve, which BBC Radio broadcasts. I've heard BBC Television records a service consisting mostly of carols in early or mid December, which they broadcast on Christmas Eve. This tape is from a recording of the service a few years ago, taken from the BBC Radio broadcast. A friend of my uncle lives in England and sent him several copies. My grandfather used to have a recording of one of the broadcasts from the 60s, but he pretty much wore it out."
       The boy completed the first verse, and the full choir took up the second verse, still a capella, their voices resonating in the high vault of the chapel.
       "I've actually been to Cambridge once with Daddy, but just the city," Minako said. "We didn't actually visit the university."
       "Well, I've never even made it to England," Geoff said. "But this has always been a part of Christmas for me."
       She leaned closer to him. "Not really my type of music... but they are really good."
       He nodded and slipped an arm around her. With the fourth verse, the organ began to play and the congregation joined the singing.
       She sighed happily as he embraced her, knowing this was just where she was meant to be.
       The hymn came to an end and the dean of the college began the bidding prayer.
       "So this is how you'd spend Christmas Eve?" she asked.
       "Part of it," he replied. He took her brush and started brushing her hair for her. "That was when the rest of the family would arrive. Since we'd all grown up with the tradition, we'd all gather after dinner to listen to a recording of the great music and the classic telling of the Christmas story from scripture."
       "What about on the radio?"
       "New Zealand is twelve hours ahead of England. The service at King's College starts at three in the afternoon, which is three in the morning, Christmas Day, in New Zealand. It would be rebroadcast later in the day, but by that time everybody was too embroiled in presents and then in preparing the Christmas dinner."
       "Well, three o'clock in England is midnight here," she observed.
       "I know," he acknowledged. "But I don't know if it's broadcast here, and I don't have a shortwave radio."
       She nodded. "You've never really mentioned going to a church."
       "Well, since I've been here I've been too busy," he said with a grin. "What with class work and my very lovely fiancee."
       She turned and kissed him. "I don't mean to keep you from it if it's important to you."
       "That's OK," Geoff said.
       "Where would you even go? I think there is a Catholic church nearby..."
       He shook his head. "I grew up in an Anglican church. There is a member of the Anglican Communion in Japan, called Nippon Sei Ko Kai. The few times I've gone, I've attended St. Alban's church, which is over near the Tokyo Tower. It happens to be an English-speaking congregation, but the Cathedral of St. Andrew is right next to it, and St. Andrew's does their worship in Japanese."
       "Near the Tower? Where?" she asked.
       "On Gaien Higashi Dori, just off Sakurada Dori, and northwest of the Tower."
       "OK," she said, nodding. "I know that area."
       "I thought you might."
       "Are you planning on going to a Christmas Eve service?" she asked.
       "I haven't decided," he said. "We're having dinner with your parents tonight, so that could make it difficult."
       "If you want to go..."
       "I'll think about it," he said.

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

       Rei and Atana had just come out of their bedroom when Kara's door burst open and the little girl came running out.
       "Mommy! Daddy!" she cried excitedly. "Is it Christmas yet? Is it? Is it?"
       Atana scooped her up and spun her around.
       "Daddy!" Kara protested.
       He set her back down on her feet. "No, it's not Christmas yet," he said. "It's only Christmas Eve. That means Christmas is tomorrow."
       "Ooohhh," Kara groaned.
       "You just have to wait another day, honey," he said.
       "You can manage that," Rei said.
       The little girl scowled. "But I wanted it to be Christmas today."
       Atana crouched down and hugged her. "I know, honey. But we still have things we need to do before we're ready for Christmas."
       Kara groaned again.
       "Now, would you like something to eat?" Rei asked.
       Kara looked up at her and nodded.

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

       Mamoru and Usagi were finishing their breakfast when the phone rang.
       "Moshi, moshi," Mamoru answered. "This is Chiba."
       "Chiba-san, this is Mizuuchi Seiji," his attorney said.
       "Yes, Mizuuchi-san."
       "I'm calling to let you know that I have obtained your marriage license," Mizuuchi said.
       "That's good to hear," Mamoru replied. "You didn't have any difficulty with it, did you?"
       "Oh, no. I found a clerk in the municipal office who has done this before," Mizuuchi said. "I filed the application you and your fiancee signed. The clerk just had to make sure it was dated for January 1st, and not for yesterday when it was prepared. The completed application was approved without any trouble."
       "Very good. Will you be in your office this morning?"
       "Yes, of course," Mizuuchi confirmed.
       "We'll be over sometime this morning to pick it up," Mamoru said.
       "That will be fine."

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

       An expensive sports car sped along a back road just outside the town of Minamiboso. The driver hardly slowed as he rounded a turn, the tires squealing in protest. As he came around the next turn, he noticed a van pulled off to the side of the road. Ahead of him was a driveway with a pair of heavy iron gates. He scowled at the closed gates, but in just a moment, they began to swing open. Breaking and downshifting, he turned hard, tires again squealing. The car swerved, but he had already taken that into account, and at just the right moment, he applied a little bit of power, sending him rushing through the gates. A glance in his mirror showed the gates already beginning to close, and two guards angrily waving their fists.
       Barely a minute later, he pulled to a stop in front of the grand house, switched off the engine, and jumped out, holding a folded newspaper in his hand. Though attired in a very expensive, immaculately pressed gray suit, he was only in his early twenties, of medium height and build, with a thin, angular face. He had very close-cut white hair, and deep blue eyes.
       Two guards were already advancing on him, guns drawn, but he locked each with a hard, cold glare. The guards froze for a moment, their eyes going out of focus, then took a step back.
       "I've told you fools. You are here to protect my grandmother, not to harass me," he said coldly. He hurried up the steps and inside, ignoring still more guards and not stopping until he reached the dining room, where his grandmother, Masuzoe Eriko, was eating breakfast.
       "You are a menace in that car of yours, Hikaru," she said, not even looking up. "I am attempting to keep a low profile..."
       Hikaru set the newspaper down next to her. "I'm afraid it is too late for that, Grandmother."
       She set down her chopsticks and wiped her mouth, then looked at the article and the accompanying picture of her climbing out of her helicopter. "How very inconvenient," she said calmly. "The police?"
       "I passed a van on the side of the road as I came from town," he said.
       She nodded. "The turn just before the driveway?"
       "Yes, Grandmother."
       "At least they are still just as predictable as ever," she said wryly. She reached for a bell next to her and rang it three times.
       A moment later, a middle-aged woman with dark hair drawn back in a bun appeared in the doorway. In her hand was a leather-bound portfolio. "Yes, daimyo-sama?"
       She held up the newspaper. "It seems the press has uncovered the truth of my attempted deception, Shuhama-san. My grandson tells me the police have already set up surveillance units."
       Shuhama nodded. "What are your instructions?"
       "Disconnect the telephones," Masuzoe replied. "Have the sound units activated on all the windows to foil their parabolic microphones and their laser audio pickups. And bring me the satellite phone with the scrambler."
       "At once, daimyo-sama," Shuhama acknowledged with a sharp bow.
       "Shouldn't you be leaving, Grandmother?" Hikaru asked.
       "Why?" she asked. "Running befits neither my age nor my dignity. Besides, there is nothing to run from. If they could prove anything against me, they would not be sitting out there, grandson."
       "What do you want me to do?"
       She turned and glared at him silently for a long moment.
       He tried to meet her iron gaze, but after only a moment, had to look down.
       "Your parlor tricks do not work on me. They never have," she declared. "As for you, I want you to do nothing."
       "But Grandmother, I'm not doing anything as it is," he protested.
       "Seducing your hoards of university girls is nothing?"
       He stiffened at her blunt response. "I meant for your organization."
       Her expression grew still colder. "When have you ever shown the least bit of responsibility? You are nothing but a playboy, spending my money, and using my name to your own advantage. You have your special ability, but you do not use it for any productive purpose; only to satisfy your momentary whims and lusts. That makes you undependable, and I have no use for those I cannot depend upon."
       "Give me a task so that I can prove myself."
       She shook her head. "You have it backwards. First you prove yourself, and only then will I consider entrusting you with any responsibility. In my business, the stakes are too high to do otherwise."
       Shuhama tapped softly at the door, holding a leather briefcase. "Daimyo-sama."
       "Thank you, Shuhama-san," the older woman replied. "That will be all, Hikaru."
       "Yes, Grandmother," he acknowledged, not making the slightest effort to hide the displeasure in his voice.
       Shuhama entered the room. As she walked towards her employer, she made a point of avoiding eye-contact with the young man.
       "You may close the door on your way out, Hikaru," the daimyo called, as Shuhama placed the briefcase on the table. "I have business to attend to."

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

       Ami and Ryo walked quickly along the street, pulling their coats tight to protect against the chill wind that was blowing. Reaching the bookstore, they stepped inside. The warmth of the lobby was a welcome change to the cold, biting wind.
       As they removed their hats, Ryo looked up and suddenly tensed for a moment.
       "What is it?" Ami asked.
       Ryo turned back toward her. "Look over at the counter."
       Ami turned her attention in that direction, immediately seeing a girl a bit taller and older than herself with shoulder-length aquamarine hair. Standing next to her was a taller 'boy' with short but slightly wavy blond hair. A shiver went through her at the sight. The faces of the pair weren't exactly as she recalled, but there was no question who they were. "Uranus and Neptune," she whispered.
       He nodded.
       "But Usagi-chan said she stripped them of their memories of being senshi," Ami said.
       "I know," Ryo replied, keeping his voice low as they began to walk away from the other two. "And I'm not sensing any sort of threat from them."
       "So, it's just a coincidence that they happened to be here," she said.
       "I think so," he agreed.
       "But a very disconcerting coincidence," she added. "I certainly wasn't anxious to see them again."
       "Neither was I," he said. Glancing back, he was relieved to see them leaving.

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

       "So," Makoto asked, as she and Shinozaki walked through the store. "What shall we do for our Christmas Eve dinner?"
       He grinned, then gently squeezed her bottom through the fabric of her pants.
       "Shinozaki," she protested.
       "I'm partial to nibbling on the chef," he said softly.
       "You're terrible," she declared. "I was talking about food."
       "Well, you certainly leave me with quite a hunger," he replied, still grinning.
       She rolled her eyes and shook her head. "You goof!"
       "What's wrong with the fact I find you very desirable?" he countered.
       "There is a time and place for that," she replied.
       "So, I guess we need to hurry home," he said.
       "We just did that last night!" she hissed softly.
       "What can I say...?"
       "You're a horny teenage boy," she countered.
       "I don't recall you ever complaining about that."
       She felt her cheeks growing warm. "Uhm, well... no... No. Of course not."
       Shinozaki took her in his arms and kissed her.
       "As long as I'm the only one who gets to enjoy your horniness," she added.
       He kissed her again. "You already know you're the only one for me."
       She kissed him in return.
       "So... may I have the lovely chef for an appetizer, and again for dessert?"
       "We'll see about that," she said softly. Leaning closer and embracing him, she brought her lips to the edge of his ear. "But what does the chef get?"
       He squeezed her bottom again. "I think you already know," he whispered. "I'm not the only horny teenager here."
       Makoto took a breath, then stepped away from him. "Let's save that until we get home," she said. "But now we have to think about what we want to do for dinner."
       "Well, I love anything you make," he said, holding her hand.
       She shook her head. "Big help you are."

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

       Rika walked through the shopping district. It was crowded with last minute Christmas shoppers braving the cold weather. If the outdoor shopping district was this crowded, she hated to think what the mall looked like.
       Ahead of her, a small group was clustered around a large Christmas tree, singing carols. Rika stopped to listen. They were a basic group of amateurs, singing slightly off key, and looking cold. While they sang, the hordes of shoppers moved around them, largely oblivious, most more concerned about end of season discounts than a message of peace on earth. Though not a Christian, Rika couldn't help but agree that this wave of blind consumerism was a colossal missing of the point. Even her own beliefs saw this time as a period of preparation for the new year about to begin.
       The carolers finally stopped singing, their group breaking up to move inside out of the cold.
       As Rika turned to continue on her way, she suddenly sensed something. She looked around as she tried to place the feeling. The cold was really getting to her now, affecting her concentration. There didn't seem to be anything or anyone around her that she recognized, nor could she determine where this sensation was coming from.
       Just then, a teenaged boy pushed past her, knocking her off her feet. Almost at once, however, she was caught by a pair of strong arms.
       "Are you alright?" a male voice asked.
       "Yes. Thank you," she answered, as she got her feet back under her. "Thank you very much." Turning, she got her first good look at him. He was a bit taller than she was, wearing a navy blue winter parka and a matching hat. He had a close cut dark beard, and she thought she could see a trace of a scar on his left cheek, which probably explained the beard. She had never seen him before, but looking into his dark eyes, she was filled with an intense sensation of deja vu.
       "My pleasure," he said with a smile. His smile faded as he too felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity.
       "Is something wrong?" she asked.
       "Oh... Ah, no," he stammered. "No. Of course not." He took a step back. "Uhm, actually... this may sound really strange... but I was having this feeling like we've met... but if we have..."
       She nodded. "I was having a similar feeling... but I don't think we have."
       "Well, my name is Kaneko Tatsuo," he said with a bow.
       "A pleasure to meet you, Kaneko-san," she replied, bowing in return. "My name is Hirano Rika."
       "Oh, the author?"
       "That's right," she confirmed.
       "I have a niece who just adores your miko series," Tatsuo said.
       Rika bowed again. "I'm very pleased she enjoyed them."
       He nodded. "She'll be thrilled to hear I met you." He shifted position as another gust of wind bit into them. "But I'm sure you have things to be doing. Last minute Christmas shopping?"
       "Oh, no," she replied. "I'm just picking up a few things for my father. He's the priest at the Hikawa Temple on Sendai Hill."
       "Oh, yes. I know where that is," Tatsuo said. "Well, don't let me detain you any longer. And it's certainly too cold to be standing around out here."
       "That's true," she agreed. "Thank you again for your help."
       "You're welcome. It was nice to meet you, Hirano-san."
       "Yes. Even if we haven't met before," she said, turning to leave.
       "Unless maybe you believe in reincarnation," he added with a chuckle as he waved and turned toward one of the stores.
       Rika's breath caught at his suggestion.

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

       Rei and Ami sat together in the small room in Ami's home that served as her mother's office.
       "Are you sure you want me to do this, Rei-chan?" Ami asked uncomfortably.
       "Of course," Rei answered. "Aren't you still planning to become a doctor?"
       "Yes," Ami said.
       "Then you'll be doing things like this for a lot of people," Rei said. "Just not with your Mercury scanner."
       With a sigh, Ami activated her scanner.
       Rei could feel her heart pounding in her chest as she awaited the answer.
       Ami looked up from the display of her computer unit. "Yes," she said softly. "You're pregnant."
       Grinning with delight, Rei embraced her friend. "Oh, yes! I'm so happy!"
       "I'm very happy for you," Ami said. "But I still have a long way to go before I become a doctor, and you're going to need to start seeing a doctor long before then."
       "I know," Rei answered. "I just couldn't tell for sure on my own yet... and I was dying to find out."
       Ami sighed again, recalling her own desires in that area. "I can understand that, but now that you do know, you need to make sure you're thinking clearly about this."
       Rei nodded. "I will, but now I can tell Atana the wonderful news. It will be the perfect Christmas present."
       With a smile, Ami gave Rei a hug. "Congratulations, Magi-san."
       "Thank you... Urawa-san."

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

       Mamoru and Usagi sat in the office of his attorney, Mizuuchi Seiji. Usagi held their marriage license, gazing at it dreamily.
       "Is there anything else we need to take care of, Mizuuichi-san?" Mamoru asked.
       "Not from a legal standpoint," Mizuuchi replied. "Your marriage license completes the legal arrangements, at least until the effective date of the license. Once it actually goes into effect, you will be legally married. Only then can you file a change of name for Tsukino-san, if you wish to do that."
       Usagi looked up. "Oh, yes. We definitely want to do that."
       Mizuuchi made a note. "I'll have the paperwork for that prepared for you." He then rose to his feet.
       Mamoru and Usagi stood up as well.
       "Again, my congratulations to you both," Mizuuchi said.
       "Thank you," Usagi said, still grinning with delight.
       "Thank you for all this work," Mamoru said.
       Mizuuchi nodded. "That's what you have retained me for, Chiba-san."
       "Thank you," Mamoru said again.

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

       "Oh, Mamo-chan!" Usagi gushed.
       Mamoru was gently steering her as they walked, sensing she wasn't paying the slightest attention to where they were going.
       "It's so wonderful," she continued, filled with such joy.
       "Yes, it is," he agreed.
       "The best Christmas present ever," she said.
       He pulled her to a stop as they reached the corner where the bus stop was.
       She looked up at him uncertainly.
       "I didn't want you walking out into traffic, Usako," he said.
       She glanced around. "Sorry," she said softly. "I'm just so happy."
       He embraced her. "You make me happy, my beautiful princess."
       "And I have the most wonderful and most handsome prince," she said.
       They heard a bus approaching. It pulled to a stop and the doors opened, allowing them to climb aboard.

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

       At the top of Sendai Hill a bus came to a stop and Rika stepped off, again pulling her coat tight against the wind. She hurried up the steps to the grounds of the Hikawa Temple. As expected it was quite busy.
       Staying clear of the crowd in front of the shrine, and in front of the window waiting to purchase charms, she turned toward the residence building.
       "Welcome to Hikawa Temple," a male voice called. "May I help you?"
       Rika turned, seeing Mitani Hideo, the new priest who had just arrived to be her father's assistant. He was about thirty, but if not for the fact that he was completely bald, he would probably appear not old enough to even be out of high school. He had briefly worked with a campus ministry program at one of the area universities, and as a result of that, had brought several female university students with him to work as miko. With the end-of-year rush, they definitely needed the extra help.
       "Oh, I beg your pardon, Hirano-san," he said, bowing. "I didn't realize it was you."
       "That's quite alright, Mitani-san," she replied, bowing in return. "Is my father still out?"
       "Yes," Mitani confirmed. "He and Kumada-san left in the van just after you did."
       "Who was driving?" she asked pointedly.
       "Kumada-san," Mitani answered. "He had already advised me that your father was... dangerous behind the wheel." He smiled. "But it seems good fortune smiled upon us all. By very strange coincidence, the keys to the van disappeared. Kumada-san found them, somehow misplaced on the top shelf in the coat closet. I cannot imagine how that could have happened."
       Rika smiled, knowing the top shelf was well out of her father's line of sight. "You're going to fit in here just fine, Mitani-san."
       He bowed again. "Thank you, Hirano-san. Now, if you will excuse me?"
       "Of course," she replied.

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

       Rei returned home to find Kara on the floor in the living room, playing a video game.
       "Mommy!" Kara cried.
       Atana emerged from the bedroom, holding the phone. "I'm glad you're back. How's the weather?"
       "Cold," Rei answered, as she removed her coat. "That wind is bitter."
       He kissed her. "I just called the Magic Authority people. I'm meeting with them this afternoon to turn over some of the artifacts we've been collecting."
       "Do you need help with that?" she asked.
       He shook his head. "I can handle it. Besides, someone has to look after Kara."
       Rei nodded. "I understand." She led him into their bedroom. "I saw Ami-chan."
       "OK."
       She grinned happily as she looked into his eyes, almost bursting with excitement and delight.
       "Really?" he asked.
       She nodded.
       Atana pulled her into his arms. "That's so wonderful, my darling," he said, struggling to keep his voice down.
       "It certainly is," she whispered.
       He tightened his embrace of her and kissed her lips. "You are the most beautiful woman."
       She smiled. "You are the most wonderful man, and you make me so happy."
       "I'm glad," he replied. "You make me very happy."
       She kissed him. "We're made for each other."
       "That we are," he agreed. Gazing into her eyes, he knew he had found true happiness.
       Looking up at him, she felt exactly the same.
       "Are you ready to tell Kara?" he asked quietly. "I understand the first few weeks are when most of the things that can go wrong are likely to happen."
       She nodded. "But I'm in excellent health, and from what Ami-chan has said about our bodies not aging, it sounds like I'm at very low risk. I think it will be OK to tell her."
       "Alright." He kissed her again.
       They returned to the living room, where Kara was still engrossed in her game.
       "Hey, honey," Atana said, sitting down on the floor next to the little girl. "How about you stop your game. We have something to tell you."
       Rei sat down on the other side of her.
       "What is it?" Kara asked.
       "Well, you've said you were hoping for a baby sister, right?" Atana began.
       Kara nodded.
       "Your mommy and I have been thinking about it too," he said.
       "And we've decided we're going to have another baby," Rei said.
       "Really?" Kara asked, looking around. "Where is the baby?"
       "Well, you can't see it yet, honey," Atana said. "A baby has to grow inside a mother's body for nine whole months."
       Kara turned and looked at Rei. "The baby is inside you, Mommy?"
       "That's right, honey," Rei said. "The baby will grow, and my belly will get a lot bigger as it does. Then when it is time, Daddy takes me to the hospital where a doctor helps the baby come out."
       "And that's when I get a baby sister?" Kara asked excitedly.
       "Well, it might be a baby brother," Atana said.
       Kara scowled. "But I want a sister."
       "You don't get to choose that," Rei said. "Even mommies and daddies don't get to choose that. All we know is we're going to have another baby, and we will love that baby just as much as we love you."
       "And we know you're going to be a great big sister," Atana added. "Right?"
       Kara nodded. "I still hope I get a sister."
       Atana hugged their daughter. "I know you do, honey. But we want you to know that us having another baby won't change how much we love you. OK?"
       "Nothing could ever change that," Rei agreed, kissing Kara's cheek.
       The little girl nodded again.

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

       It was early afternoon when Ikuko arrived at Mamoru and Usagi's apartment.
       "Please come in, Ikuko-san," Mamoru greeted her.
       "Usagi said she had something to show me," Ikuko said, as she removed her coat.
       "Yes," Mamoru confirmed. "She's almost ready. If you'll have a seat, I need to help her finish up."
       Ikuko nodded, sitting down in the living room.
       Several minutes later, Mamoru returned from the bedroom he and Usagi shared.
       "Hi, Mom," Usagi called.
       Ikuko looked to see Usagi standing there in her wedding kimono. Her breath caught. "Oh, Usagi," she gasped. "It... It's lovely."
       Usagi grinned. "I think so too. I'm glad you like it, Mom."
       "It... it's incredible," Ikuko said, rising to her feet again. She slowly circled Usagi to take it all in. As she did, she blinked away a tear. "My little girl... so grown up."
       "And so very happy," Usagi added quietly.
       "That's what is important," Ikuko said. "Where did you find such an exquisite kimono? And on such short notice?"
       "Miyasato's, not far from Juuban's central shopping district," Mamoru answered.
       Ikuko shivered as she tried to estimate how much this kimono must have cost, but then reminded herself that was Mamoru's concern, not hers. "So, this is your wedding outfit?"
       "For the service," Usagi said. "We also bought a second uchikake for after the service, and then a Western-style wedding gown for the reception."
       Ikuko once more had to force herself not to comment on how much that must have cost, again reminding herself that Mamoru was one of the wealthiest men in Japan. If he and Usagi wanted to splurge on their wedding, that was entirely up to them. "Well... I'm sure they will be very nice."
       "I think it's all wonderful," Usagi said, still grinning brightly.
       Ikuko smiled at her daughter's happiness, again so very thankful that she had found such an exceptional young man. "Have you decided on the reception yet?" she finally asked.
       Mamoru nodded. "Yes. I reserved a banquet room at a hotel not that far from Hikawa Temple. Fortunately, New Year's Eve is the big party night, so I was able to find some openings for New Year's Day. Most places that were available only wanted to sell a full wedding package, where we'd get married there, but at this hotel, the manager understood it was better to get a reservation for the banquet hall than nothing at all. Since we're not going to have that big a group, I think it will work out very well."
       "I'm glad it all worked out," Ikuko said.
       "So am I," Usagi said. "But now I need to get out of this kimono."
       "Oh, let me help," Ikuko said. "You can show me your dress."
       Usagi glanced at Mamoru who nodded. "OK. That's fine."

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

       "You're going to church?" Rei asked.
       Atana nodded. "Most Christians do on Christmas Eve."
       "I understand that."
       "Kara insisted she wanted to go too," he continued. "She and I went all through this while you were out this morning. If she is coming with me, then I need to go to a service that is in English since her Japanese isn't good enough for that."
       Rei nodded.
       "Geoff told me of a church over near the Tokyo Tower that is an English-speaking congregation. It's affiliated with the Church of England, so I have a decent idea of what to expect. Anyway, they have a family service at five o'clock, which is a good time for Kara."
       "OK," Rei acknowledged. "And what about me?"
       "Well, you're welcome to come, of course," he said. "But since I know how important your Shinto faith is to you, I kind of figured you might not want to."
       "We are a family," she pointed out.
       "A mixed faith family," he countered. "Neither of us is required to give up what we believe."
       "I know that," she replied. "But that doesn't mean I can't go."
       "True."
       "I've had to attend a few Catholic services at school," she said. "They didn't forbid me from attending. I just couldn't go up for... what do they call it?... uhm, communion, I think."
       "Yes, that's right," Atana said. "Since you've attended a Roman Catholic service, you'd probably find this very similar. I'm told the differences between Anglican and Roman services are mostly superficial."
       "Well, you have to leave shortly to meet the Magic Authority people."
       "That's right," he confirmed.
       "I'll think about while you're out," she said.
       He nodded and kissed her. "I love you."
       "I love you," she said softly.

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

       It was a little after 4:30 as Geoff and Minako walked north along Sakurada Dori, having come from Akabanebashi Station. To their right, they could see the Tokyo Tower. They found themselves going slightly uphill as they approached Gaien Higashi Dori. Crossing the street, they turned right and continued walking. In just a moment, they saw two churches ahead on the left. The first had a sign reading 'Cathedral Church of St. Andrew', while the second was St. Alban's. Next to the door was a sign that read 'St. Alban's Church. Anglican-Episcopal. Services in English.'
       A small group was already going into the church. As Minako and Geoff waited, they saw Atana approaching with Rei and Kara.
       "Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Magi," Geoff called with a grin. "A happy Christmas to you."
       "And a merry Christmas to you, Mr. and Mrs. Kelley," Atana replied.
       "I see you have your family," Geoff said.
       Atana nodded happily.
       "It seems only right," Rei said. "And I'm going to be taking them to see some of the New Years Eve prayers at the Temple."
       "Sounds only fair," Minako agreed. She leaned closer to Rei. "I hear congratulations are in order."
       Rei grinned and nodded. "Yes. Ami-chan just confirmed it this morning."
       Minako gave Rei a hug. "I'm so happy for you."
       "We couldn't be happier," Rei said. "It is a wonderful Christmas present."
       "It certainly is," Atana agreed.
       "I'm going to be a big sister!" Kara cried.
       "Yes, you are," Geoff said with a smile. "Are you going to be a big help to your mommy and daddy?"
       Kara nodded. "But I hope I get a sister."
       "We've been through that with her," Atana said quietly.
       Rei looked at Minako pointedly. "So, when are you two...?"
       Minako shook her head. "I'm still on probation, remember. Besides, the rest of us agreed we can't afford to have more than two senshi on maternity retirement at a time."
       "I guess that does make sense," Rei agreed.
       "Well, shall we head in?" Geoff asked. "I've never known a church that wasn't crowded on Christmas Eve."
       Atana nodded. "We should go in, so we can be sure of sitting together."
       Together, they walked up the steps.

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

       Rika walked past the doors of the worship hall, once more in her miko robes. Even with the sun having set and the temperature dropping still lower, the shrine was still reasonably crowded. A special prayer service would be starting soon, focusing on personal renewal and reflection for the coming year. Her father had started holding such a service several years earlier as his own small effort toward offsetting the rank commercialism of Christmas in Japan.
       She continued on toward the outdoor shrine, where several people were standing in prayer.
       "Hirano-san?"
       Rika turned, finding a man and a young girl standing there. In the dim light, it took her a moment to recognize him. "Kaneko-san." She bowed. "Are you here for the service, or just for prayers?"
       "Just for prayers," Tatsuo replied, bowing in return. "And to introduce my niece to one of her favorite authors." He indicated the girl. "This is Arai Midori. Midori-chan, this is Hirano Rika."
       The girl grinned as she bowed. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Hirano-san."
       "I am pleased to meet you, Arai-san," Rika replied, also bowing.
       "I just love your books," Midori said.
       Rika smiled. "Thank you for telling me that. I am very pleased you enjoy them."
       Midori nodded. "I wish I could be more like Kanae-chan," she said, referring to the miko in Rika's novels.
       "Well, the important thing is to find ways to be yourself," Rika said. "That's what Kanae-chan tries to do."
       The girl nodded again.
       "We should let Hirano-san get back to her work," Tatsuo said. "I'm sure things are still busy here."
       "Yes, Uncle Tatsuo," Midori acknowledged. "It was great to meet you, Hirano-san. Thank you."
       "You're welcome, Arai-san," Rika said.
       Tatsuo leaned closer to Midori. "Why don't you go over and see about purchasing a new charm for your parents' home shrine."
       "OK," she answered, hurrying off.
       "Thank you, Hirano-san," Tatsuo said. "I knew she would be thrilled to meet you."
       "It's always nice to meet a fan," Rika said. She gestured toward the shrine, where a couple was just finishing up. "But I believe you said you came for prayers."
       "That's true," he acknowledged. "And it was nice to see you again."
       She smiled and nodded. "It was nice to see you too."
       "Uhm... well... Have a happy Christmas," he said.
       "You too."
       "Perhaps we'll run into each other again," he suggested.
       "Yes... That could be nice."
       He smiled at her favorable response. "Good night," he said, bowing.
       "Good night, Kaneko-san," she replied.

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

       After the church service, Minako and Geoff walked along a residential street in the southwest corner of the Shibakouen district, soon arriving at the home of Minako's parents.
       "Hello," Aino Takeshi greeted them. "How was the church service?"
       "It was very good," Geoff said. "I know it's not really Minako's thing..."
       "I never said that!" Minako protested.
       "But she was a very good sport about it," Geoff added.
       "I told you all along that I was happy to go with you," Minako said.
       "Minako? Is that you?" her mother called from the kitchen.
       "Yes, Mom," Minako called back. "Geoff and I are here."
       "OK," Aino Emiko replied. "Sit down with your father. Dinner still needs about another ten minutes."
       "That means the kitchen is strictly off limits," Minako told Geoff with a grin.
       "Yes, indeed," Takeshi confirmed.
       They sat down in the living room.
       "Besides, we can use the time to talk," Takeshi continued.
       "You said earlier you wanted to speak to us," Minako said. "Has something come up?"
       "Yes, I'm afraid so," Takeshi answered.
       "Something to do with your work?" Minako asked.
       Takeshi nodded. "I know you've both heard of Hino Tadamichi."
       "Of course," Minako said. "He's Rei-chan's father... at least in the biological sense."
       Takeshi nodded in understanding. "A few days ago, there was an attempt on Hino Tadamichi's life, apparently by a criminal organization trying to make sure he stayed silent. Hino's staff promptly turned over vast quantities of secret records to the authorities."
       "Yes. We heard about that," Geoff said. "But surely that doesn't have anything to do with your business."
       "It shouldn't," Takeshi said wryly. "But unfortunately it does."
       "How?" Minako asked.
       "According to Hino's records, about thirty separate accounts through our company are being used for money laundering," Takeshi said. "These accounts are used for shifting organized crime funds from Japan to our New York office, where it is supposedly put into the American investments markets through a number of short term trades. After a sufficient number of trades, one of those thirty account holders cashes out and transfers the money back to Japan as American dollars. Prior to the release of Hino's records, the American authorities had no reason to suspect these transactions, and neither did we."
       "So, that means the authorities are now involved?" Geoff asked.
       "Yes," Takeshi confirmed. "The securities authorities both here and in America. So far, it doesn't appear any of our Japanese offices nor our New York office are legally compromised since we had no evidence this was organized crime money. Likewise, Hino's records don't indicate these account holders had any sort of inside help from our company."
       "Then, what makes this serious for you?" Geoff asked.
       "It is the image," Takeshi answered. "Our business is dependent upon its reputation for honesty and integrity. That's why a not inconsiderable number of Japanese business executives assigned overseas keep their investments with us, rather than going to one of the local brokerage houses where they are working. But if they lose that confidence in us..."
       "That means you've been asked to go to New York," Minako said.
       Takeshi nodded. "Both the American authorities and our clients need to see us taking this very seriously by having one of the partners on the ground in New York to take charge of this, to determine just what went wrong, and what we need to do to better protect the company and our clients."
       "Makes sense," Geoff said. "When do you leave?"
       "Just before New Years," Takeshi answered.
       Minako glanced at Geoff uneasily. "But... uhm, what... what does that mean...?"
       "For you? Well, I'm afraid the simple answer is your mother and I can't just leave you here on your own," Takeshi admitted.
       "But Daddy," Minako protested.
       "You're simply too young to be completely on your own, Minako," Takeshi said. "And we don't have any other relatives here in the Tokyo area who could take responsibility for you."
       "You mean I have to go to New York with you?" Minako asked.
       "Your mother and I have been discussing that ever since I first got the news," Takeshi replied. "She considered that to be the only option, while I felt that was completely unworkable. I'm not prepared to pull you out of school..."
       "But you said you didn't have any choice on that," Geoff said.
       Takeshi shook his head. "Actually, I said she couldn't live on her own. But there is one other alternative... if you two are willing."
       Minako looked confused. "Us?"
       Geoff took a breath. "You would actually consider that?"
       Takeshi nodded with a sigh. "In ordinary circumstances I wouldn't have, but now I'm forced into a position where I have to make a rather painful choice. It is in Minako's best interest to remain here in Tokyo, but my ability to provide for my family, as well as my obligation as a partner to all our clients, demands that I go to New York. My wife doesn't like it, but she won't consider staying here; that's her sense of family obligation, and I have to respect her decision on that. And so, this is the only solution that allows me to answer both my business obligations and my obligations to my daughter."
       "I'm still not sure I understand," Minako said.
       "He's suggesting we get married, before they leave," Geoff explained.
    Minako's eyes widened in shock and joy.
       "That way it won't effect your legal status if your parents leave the country," Geoff continued.
       "Oh, yes!" Minako exclaimed, grasping Geoff's arm tightly. "That's so great!"
       "Thank you for having such confidence in both of us, Takeshi-san," Geoff said.
       "You two have earned that," Takeshi replied. "As I said, your mother is not entirely happy with this, Minako, but she has come to accept that you two are living together, and she cannot see staying here just to preserve a legal technicality when she considers her proper place to be with me... even is she isn't overly happy about the trip." He looked at Minako and Geoff for a moment, then leaned forward. "Trust me," he said in a conspiratorial whisper. "I've already told the other partners that just as soon as I can extricate myself from this New York business, I'm taking at least a month off to make it up to her."
       "Sounds like a good plan," Geoff agreed, likewise keeping his voice down.
       "Yes. She certainly deserves it." Takeshi reached into his briefcase on the table and pulled out an envelope, handing it to Minako. "My attorney has been very busy over the past several days, and not just with this."
       She opened the envelope, seeing the paperwork to allow her to marry Geoff. At the bottom, it was signed by both her parents. "She signed it too?"
       Takeshi nodded. "She's not happy about it, but she does accept that making you move and change schools again is not a good thing."
       Geoff glanced at the paperwork. "You're certain that me not being a Japanese citizen won't be a problem?"
       "Not under Japanese law," Takeshi answered. "I checked that with my attorney. The essential conditions are that you be considered an adult under Japanese law, and that you are resident in this country legally at the time of the marriage. You meet both those requirements."
       Geoff nodded. "And if I understand correctly, we need to be married before you have to leave for America."
       "That's correct," Takeshi said.
       "So, that means there won't be time to arrange a religious ceremony," Geoff said.
       "I don't need that," Minako said, embracing him. "I just need the license that says I'm your wife."
       "That's good enough for me too," Geoff agreed.
       "That is the important thing under the law," Takeshi said. "Once you are married, Minako, the remaining legal responsibilities for you as one who is still underage will be Geoff-san's, not ours."
       "Thank you, Daddy!" Minako exclaimed. "Thank you so much!"
       "You're welcome," he replied, smiling. "I'm just glad you have found such a very fine young man."
       "I think I'm the lucky one, Takeshi-san," Geoff said.
       "Don't ever let her forget that, Geoff-san," Takeshi said. "My wife may get frustrated with my professional obligations, but I never let her forget she is the only woman in the universe for me."
       Geoff smiled and squeezed Minako's hand. "Don't worry. I won't let her forget."
       "Nor will I," Minako said, kissing Geoff's cheek.
       "I'm glad to hear it," Takeshi said. "With the consent declaration, my attorney has also included the marriage license application. You need to take it to the Minato-ku municipal center. I'm told they can usually process it and issue the license within an hour or less, but in case there is a backlog or some other delay, you should probably go there the day after tomorrow."
       "That makes sense," Geoff agreed.
       "Alright," Emiko called. "Dinner is ready. I need hands to help bring dishes to the table."
       "Coming, boss," Takeshi answered with a grin.

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

       After dinner, as Geoff was helping to clear the table, Minako pulled her father aside.
       "Daddy, do you still have a shortwave radio?" she asked.
       "Yes," he answered. "Why?"
       "Have you heard of the Lessons and Carols service at King's College, Cambridge?"
       "Of course," he said.
       "Listening to it is part of Geoff's family Christmas tradition," she explained. "Since he can't get back to New Zealand, I thought maybe I could find a way for him to listen to the service. The BBC broadcasts it, and it starts at midnight, our time."
       Takeshi nodded. "OK. Let's go down to the basement."
       Moments later, he found the old radio and plugged it in.
       "It uses vacuum tubes," he explained. "So you have to let it warm up for a few minutes before you can get any sound." While waiting, he attached the antenna wire and strung it out. Soon, the sound of static began to emanate faintly from the speaker. He studied a small card taped to the side of the radio. "Let's see. BBC World Service... Here it is." He adjusted the tuner, producing bursts of noise as he crossed other broadcast frequencies, until he came across a voice speaking unmistakable Oxford English. "That has to be it." He glanced at the clock. "But we should know in just a minute or so. The BBC always does a news update at the top of the hour."
       "At eleven hundred GMT, this is the BBC World Service," the announcer said. "And now for the news..."
       Takeshi switched off the radio. "There you are," he said. He disconnected the antenna and wound it up, then unplugged the radio and placed it into a small backpack. "You shouldn't have any trouble listening to it with this."
       "Thanks, Daddy," Minako said, hugging. "Thanks for everything."
       "You're welcome, Minako."
       She picked up the backpack and carried it upstairs.
       "What's in the bag?" Geoff asked.
       "Consider it a Christmas present," Minako said. "That means you don't get to see it yet."

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

       Minako held Geoff's arm as they walked along the street, still bubbling with excitement. "I still can't believe it," she exclaimed softly. "It seems like a dream!"
       "Yes, it does," he agreed. "But those papers he gave you are real."
       She nodded joyfully. "Yes... They certainly are."
       "I'm sorry he has to leave like this," Geoff added. "But I am happy he and your mother saw fit to let you stay here."
       "As 'Mrs. Geoff Kelley'," she agreed. "That's the best part of it."
       "Most definitely." He pulled her into his embrace and kissed her.
       "But now we need to tell the others," she said.
       "We can deal with that when we get home," he replied.
       "Home," she said, her grin growing even brighter. "My home is with you... forever and ever."
       "That's just how it should be... my lovely Venus."

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

       Usagi and Mamoru sat together in their darkened living room as the lights on their Christmas tree blinked.
       "So, do you think you've been a good girl this year, Usako," he asked with a grin.
       She smiled and sighed happily as she leaned against him. "Oh, yes. But then I've already gotten everything I could possibly want, Mamo-chan."
       He leaned forward and kissed her cheek. "So have I, my beautiful princess."
       "And I know you have been so very good to me."
       "You've been very good to me," he replied.
       "I can't help it," she said, grinning. "We're made for each other."
       "Yes we are," he agreed. "And I am so glad that we are."
       "Me too," she sighed.

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

       Minako pulled the radio from the backpack. Plugging it in, she turned it on to let its vacuum tubes begin to warm up. She attached the long wire antenna and drew it out. Glancing at the clock, she saw it was just after midnight.
       Geoff came out of the bedroom. "What is this?"
       She looked up at him and grinned. "Just a little surprise for you. The present I mentioned earlier."
       Just then, a faint noise began to emerge from the speaker. As it grew louder, it was plainly a very British male radio announcer. "... world leaders condemned the coup, but the leaders of the coup insist they are acting to protect stability and democracy in the west African state. BBC World News."
       Geoff looked at Minako in surprise, sitting down next to her.
       She smiled with pleasure.
       "And now on the BBC World Service," the announcer continued. "We go live to the Chapel of King's College, Cambridge, for a festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. This long-running tradition began on Christmas Eve of 1918, when the newly-appointed Dean of King's, Eric Milner-White, who had just returned from his wartime service as an army chaplain, became convinced the Church of England needed a more imaginative and stimulating form of worship for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. Ten years later, the service was broadcast by the BBC for the first time. The theme of the service, as described by Eric Milner-White, is the development of the loving purposes of God as seen through the windows and words of the Bible. While the Biblical readings have remained largely unchanged, beginning with the account from Genesis of the exile from the Garden and concluding with the prologue to the Gospel of John, the music of the service has varied considerably over the years. This year, the nine Biblical lessons are interspersed with nineteen carols and congregational hymns. And now, we join the choir and congregation in the Chapel of King's College, where one of the choristers steps forward to begin the processional, 'Once in Royal David's City'."
       There was a period of silence, before the boy's voice came from the speaker.
       Geoff embraced Minako and kissed her. "You are the most wonderful woman."
       "And you're the most wonderful man," she replied. "Happy Christmas, Mr. Kelley."
       "Happy Christmas, Mrs. Kelley."

< To be continued >

* * * * * * * * * * * *
NOTE: I know that my modern era backstory for Minako is completely out of canon with regard to the "Codename: Sailor V" manga, but for this chapter I have kept Sakurada Natsuna in her position as superintendent-general of the Metropolitan Police Board. Iwaki Kiichi of the National Police Agency, on the other hand, is entirely my own creation, although the National Police Agency and the Kanto Regional Police Bureau are actual components in Japan's law enforcement system. There is considerable fan speculation that Sakurada Natsuna is related to Sakurada Haruna, Usagi's teacher, but Takeuchi-san has never said so. In fact, there are characters named Sakurada in two of her other works, as well as Sailor V and Sailor Moon, suggesting it is simply a name she likes to reuse, just as several of Minako's friends bear such striking resemblances to several of Usagi's friends.

I have chosen to leave the name of the Nippon Sei Ko Kai in Japanese, as the English translation, "Holy Catholic Church of Japan", isn't particularly distinctive, and because among Anglican Communion churches, it is always known by its Japanese name. Nippon Sei Ko Kai's Diocese of Tokyo has two churches in Minato-ku, St. Andrew's Cathedral and St. Alban's, which are right next to each other in the Shibakouen district (also romanized as 'Shiba Koen') on Gaien Higashi Dori, just west of Tokyo Tower, and about a kilometer (straight line, not by road) east-northeast of the center of the Juuban district. Shibakouen is also the district where Minako's parents live, and she attends Shibakouen Junior High School.

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.

-01.10.2013