GWB14E

**START**

**59. Honey Moons.**

The expected ceremony began, with solemn calm the priest addressed the three couples and asked them one by one the questions of rigor.

-Robert Malden, do you take Beruche Malinde to be your lawful wedded wife, to love, honor and cherish, sharing your sorrows and joys until death do you part.

-Yes, I do. - The man smiled.

-Beruche Malinde, do you take Robert Malden to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love, honor and cherish, to share your pains and joys until death do you part.

-I do.  - The young woman affirmed, with visible emotion.

-Thomas Alan Rodney, do you take Cooan Malinde to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love, honor, and cherish, to share your pains and joys until death do you part.

-I do. - He said, full of joy.

-Cooan Malinde, do you take Thomas Alan Rodney to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love, honor and cherish, to share your sorrows and joys till death do you part.

-Yes, I love him. - The girl smiled. -

-Seijuurou Ail Ginga, do you take Natsumi Ann Ginga to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love, honor and cherish, sharing your sorrows and joys until death do you part.

-Yes, of course. - He said, with a tinge of obviousness. -

-Natsumi Ann Ginga, do you take Seijuurou Ail Ginga to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love, honor, and cherish, sharing your sorrows and joys until death do you part?

-Yes, of course I do. - She affirmed. -

           The ritual of the rings was completed and finally, and at the same time the couples repeated the well-known, with this ring I betroth you. Finally, the priest, after smiling slightly, affirmed more relaxed.

-I had never said this in plural, but well. There is always a first time for everything, sons, and daughters. - And then, more solemnly he declared. - Then, by the authority given to me by this Holy Church, I declare you, husbands, and wives. You may kiss the brides.

         All the brides and grooms kissed at the same time amidst the applause and cheers of their guests. Then the great retinue went to Roy and Beruche's villa where the wedding banquet was to be held. Long tables were set up in the garden, covered under canvas tents that were quite elegant despite everything. The boys ate to their heart's content, luckily there was plenty of food on order. They all made vows for the happiness of the couples and Mamoru had to take care of him at the request of his friends.

- Let the plaguey guy speak! Let the plaguey guy speak! - They chanted with jocular glee, led by Roy. -

- The plaguey? - laughed Rei without understanding. -

-It's Spanish slang. Bertie told me that her husband learned it from a college classmate who was from Spain. It comes to mean that he is a little tedious, or that you talk a lot. - Ami smiled amused like the rest. -

- I'm sure they say it because of the little speeches that Mamo-Chan used to make every time he came to Sailor Moon's aid! - Minako exclaimed, laughing. -

-Yes... she's unrivaled in that! - Makoto agreed. -

-My boy is great at everything..." - a jocular Usagi said. - Even when it comes to talking with his elbows! He's no match for that either!

          The others couldn't help laughing either. Even the man in question laughed, in a patently good-natured manner, taking the joke with good sportsmanship. At last, he pleased his friends and acted as improvised master of ceremonies by proposing a toast.

-Well, ladies and gentlemen," -he said, trying to make himself heard over the din of the banquet as he raised his glass. - This time I'll be brief, so that you can´t tell me plaguey. - More laughter and once the laughter died down, Mamoru continued raising his glass. - To our friends. May they be very happy, and may they soon increase our large group of fighters for justice, as Ail and Ann have already done.

         Beruche and Cooan blushed, Tom and Roy smiled, and the rest of the group laughed and nodded approvingly at the proposal.

- Well Mamo-Chan, you've already put the poor things in a bind! - Usagi exclaimed with loud laughter as she added.  - It's just that you don't drink fine.

-Well, you're not the best person to talk to. - Rei intervened with jocular malice. - I remember a certain party at the house of an English lord in which...

- Shut up, Rei! - Usagi cut her off between embarrassed and annoyed. - Do you always have to meddle in things you don't care about?

-I do the same thing you do. - She replied sticking her tongue out at her. - But of course, you don't like to be reminded of your moments of "glory" ... Ha, ha, ha!

            Usagi did the same and Mamoru had to mediate. Makoto and Minako also tried to appease them, meanwhile, Ami tilted her head in embarrassment and the other sailors also looked away as if they didn't know them at all. Chibiusa was blushing and the quartet of Amazons were laughing and having a great time.

- The future sovereign is very funny! - Para-Para said, unable to stop laughing. - She says so funny things.

-Yes...we must admit that whenever we meet her, we always have a good time. - Jun-Jun agreed. -

-Of course, I don't know at what point in her life my mother made the change. - Chibiusa said, still blushing from that spectacle. - I can't believe it!

-Well, you must still have some time to mature, Your Highness. - Cere smiled - Cere, to affirm. - So far, whenever we've traveled back in time, he's still got a very funny sense of humor.

-Well, too bad this is the last trip we take until years from now. - Ves-Ves lamented. - We have a lot of obligations in the thirtieth century.

Chibiusa nodded, they had a few things to take care of in the future. And she missed a certain someone quite a bit. On the other hand, she was also sorry to leave her friends here. Though they would try to enjoy themselves while they could. Parallel to her musings, elsewhere Nephrite decided to change her tune to settle the incident between her warrior friends.

-Actually, come to think of it, I could have supplied you with the material for the wedding dresses myself. - She joked in an amused tone. -

           To the surprise of the group, Usagi intervened, understanding immediately what the boy was referring to.

-Just like when you pulled that stunt with the wedding dresses to steal energy, right?

-That's right. - The boy corroborated with an amused gesture, adding with his typical English humor. -The bad thing is that I don't have the fabrics anymore now that I would really be interested in making dresses with them. As they say in England. A matter of bad timing....

Ami and Rei smiled too, since they were the only ones who lived through that event. And the echoes of that comment had not yet died away when Emerald intervened.

- Where are you going on your honeymoon? - she asked curiously to the couples. -

-Annie and I have seen a planet that looks peaceful," - Ail answered as he watched over his son, who was sleeping in a baby carriage next to him. - "I think we'll visit it.

-Yes, we like to travel the universe very much. - His wife added. -

-Well, Connie and I have been thinking between India, Europe and in the end, we have almost decided to go to Hawaii. - Tom replied. - We're really looking forward to meeting him.

-That's true,"-  Cooan agreed with visible excitement. - A sunset swim on one of those deserted white sandy beaches must be so romantic!

-Maybe they're not so deserted anymore. - Her boyfriend reminded her. - There is a lot of tourism.

-Don't take the romance away from me, silly! - Cooan smiled, giving him a tug on one ear. -

- Oh, okay. I'm sure we can find some quiet cove. - He hastened to clarify, against the backdrop of the laughter of the rest. -

-Well, we can. - We're not quite sure yet, but I think we'll go to Europe," - Roy interjected, putting an arm around his newly declared wife. - Bertie wants to soak up the history of that continent.

-That's right. I want to visit some European capitals, see monuments, and learn a bit of their history. Besides, there will be some very romantic places there too, I'm sure. - The girl affirmed with the same enthusiasm as her younger sister. - It will be a nice experience and very educational.

-Come to London if you can. - Nephrite offered. - You'll love it. And we'll see each other while we're there.

-It wouldn't be a bad idea. - Bertie said. -

-Come and see us in Paris, too," - Emerald proposed with interest. - Diamond and I are going to live there permanently. He can work in the branch of the European Space Agency there and I have the headquarters of Deveraux Fashions.

- That's a done deal! - Roy nodded to the delight of his friends, adding with conviction and joviality. - We're sure to have fun. We'll be able to travel around several cities visiting our friends and stopping to see what we can find. Adventure!

- More adventures yet? - Tom laughed, affirming in amusement. - Dude, in our case we hope we don't have any.

-Of course. - Cooan agreed, jokingly affirming. - At most, we'll have a suitcase misplaced.

-Well. - Roy agreed. - That's true. We've already had a lot of ups and downs, and it is right we miss living in peace and quiet. The truth is that I'm getting used to being orderly and methodical. And it's not so bad. - He added, provoking more laughter from the rest. -

Beruche smiled, taking her husband's hand in hers. The others began to comment on the various places they themselves would like to visit. They were just getting started when Melanie and Malcolm joined them.

- Congratulations! - the former head cheerleader exclaimed, hugging the two newlywed sisters. -

-Thank you, Mel. - Cooan smiled. -

Malcolm also offered congratulations and a kiss to each of them. He then went on to greet his classmates and tell them.

-Congratulations, guys. And you, Malden, I hope you'll take care of her.

-Of course, I will. - He replied, alluding humorously. - Why don't you say the same to Tom?

- Because I know he'll do it! - the giant laughed. -

That made everyone laugh, including Diamond who stood nearby and declared amused.

- How well they know you!

- Ha, ha, ha, ha! Little prince. - Roy replied with a grimace, but nevertheless with sporting humor, to answer his former college buddy. - And when are you and Mel supposed to get married...?

-It won't be long now. And you'll be invited. - He assured the alluded one. - By the way, congratulations on your Knicks games.

-Thank you, my friend. - Roy smiled, wanting to know in turn. - How are you doing in the NFL? -

-I'm not playing much right now, but I'm waiting for my chance. - Roberts affirmed. -

-I'm sure you will. - Tom encouraged him. -

Malcolm thanked him with a pat on the back that almost dislocated poor Tom, who only smiled a faint smile amidst the laughter of the rest. They continued to chat in a very good mood, Tom and Roy introduced Malcolm to their friends. Cooan and Bertie did the same with Melanie and the other girls.

-Hey, now that I see you guys around. - An astonished Petz commented, looking alternately at the cheerleading captain and Emerald, who was also standing nearby. - You look so much alike.

-That's true. - Bertie agreed. - I had that same feeling when I met Mel.

Of course, she wasn't going to make it clear that, rather than their looks, she related to them by how haughty and unhinged she found them. At least in the past. Fortunately, they had nothing to do with those girls of yesteryear.

-Perhaps you'd be interested in trying your hand at fashion. - Emerald offered in the meantime to the former captain of the cheerleaders. -

-Thank you, really. But I'm getting my Ph.D. to teach at the university. - Melanie declined, adding with interest. - So, these are your friends. And your older sister. I thought there were four of you. - She commented. -

Although seeing the faces of the three young women and the expressions of circumstance of the others, she immediately said with trepidation.

-I hope I didn't say the wrong thing, I....

-No, Mel, it's just that our sister Kalie is not here. She lives her life elsewhere and could not attend. - A saddened Cooan told her. -

-I'm sorry, Connie. - Melanie sighed. -

-Well, let's hope she's happy. - Bertie interjected, wishing to put the matter to rest. -

-I understand, I miss April very much, she was my roommate for two years and we were very good friends. I know it's not the same as if she had been a sister....

-You can never measure the bond between two people simply by their genes. - I feel that my friends are like sisters to me." - Usagi said, joining the conversation. - "If something happens to one of them, it's like a sister to me. If something happens to one of them, it's like it's happening to me. And it's mutual. So don't give up. I'm sure you'll be able to see your friend again someday.

Melanie nodded her thanks for those comforting words, that young Japanese girl seemed very kind and gave her a strange feeling. As if she possessed a special strength and charisma. In fact, they and those girls continued to talk for quite some time until late in the evening. On one occasion she thought she remembered Connie speaking highly of her and her other companions in Japan. And as far as she could tell, her former classmate had not exaggerated. She put that down and they continued chatting in a more cheerful mood. So did the boys with Malcolm. Malcolm was also struck by these guys, and while he didn't want to say anything, he thought they were quite remarkable. In an aside that Roberts was able to make with his girlfriend, he told her.

-They must be those very special friends. - He said to the girl, who nodded. -

-Much more extraordinary than we had thought, indeed. - Melanie nodded, confiding in her partner. - I think they must have done a lot to save the world, too. And yet here they are, acting as if nothing happened.

          Her boyfriend nodded. Although they spent a while longer socializing with those kids, they finally said goodbye to those they could. Being such a large group, they formed small groups where they chatted with each other and exchanged. Usagi, for her part, left the group of girlfriends and those other girls and approached the sailors of the outer solar system who were now talking with Doctor Tomoe.

-Well daughter. I'm glad you are doing so well in your studies. I can tell that your friends are helping you a lot. - He said to Hotaru. -

-Yes, thank you, dad. - She replied with obvious joy. -

The outside girls approached them, and while Hotaru was going to chat with Chibiusa, the teacher commented to the three sailors.

-I really don't know how to thank you. During these years I have had a hard time because of the accident. I still have gaps in my memory and my poor daughter was deprived of her mother. - The doctor lamented. - Thank goodness you were her family.

-That's all right. For us it is a pride and a pleasure to be able to help Hotaru. She is a great friend. - Michiru smiled. -

-I may sound silly, but I can hardly remember the last few years. As if she was a baby when she was taken away from me. - Tomoe was able to say with a reflective expression, as if she was trying to remember, adding not without regret. - The truth is, I'm sorry I caused you so much trouble by not being able to take care of my daughter.

- Don't worry about it. After what you had to go through, it's understandable that you don't remember. But you should know that your daughter is a wonderful girl. - Haruka remarked kindly, adding rather tenderly coming from her. - We have been a real family. And that experience we wouldn't trade for anything.

Hotaru and Chibiusa were on their side commenting with a mixture of secrecy and animation.

- Do you plan to go to see him soon? - Sailor Saturn wanted to know. -

-I hope so as soon as I return to the future. - Her interlocutor commented: " - Although my parents have given me quite a few important tasks.

-Well, but, if I'm not mistaken. Those tasks will have to be carried out over a period of several years. Right?

-That's right. The first thing is to take care of Nemesis. Although that's not my main task. I will act as a mere liaison. I can't tell you more about that either.

-I do understand. - Her friend agreed. -

-Discretion is essential. I can't tell you anything about what will happen in that remote future. - Chibiusa declared now with a more worried tone, to add this time in a more casual way. - But my other mission is the most important in the short term. We are preparing something very important.

- Is it about her? - Hotaru wanted to know. -

Her friend nodded, although she just observed her outside friends approaching, they were chatting precisely about her and she decided to intervene, after hearing those words of thanks from her father regarding how they had raised her while he couldn't.

- Yes, and he called them Haruka daddy and Michiru and Setsuna mommy! - She laughed, making the rest imitate her. -

-Hotaru is a very intelligent and dedicated girl. She is same as you, doctor. Apple doesn´t fall far the tree. – Setsuna declared. -

Chibiusa just listened on the sidelines. She shouldn't get involved in that. She had enough to take care of. Earlier, she was able to talk a little with Setsuna, with whom she had a closer relationship, apart from Hotaru. So, she politely said goodbye and headed off to find her own sailors. Just as she was walking away it was Usagi who joined that group and greeted in a jovial way.

-Hello girls, how are you, Mr. Tomoe?

-Very well, thank you very much. - He replied cordially. - I am very glad to see you...

- How are your investigations going? - The girl was interested. -

-Great. Now I work for a large multinational company. - The scientist said. - I only wish I could contribute to the improvement of the world's welfare.

-I'm sure you will. - Usagi said. -

-As you have done, no doubt. - Her interlocutor affirmed. -

           After smiling kindly upon hearing that and exchanging a few more words, the newcomer to the group turned to Pluto and asked her, while Haruka and Michiru made an aside to chat a little more with the doctor and Hotaru.

- Do you have a moment, Setsuna? I'd like to talk to you...

-Of course. - She agreed. -

The two of them moved a little away from the bustle, Usagi was the one who commented casually.

- This party is great! And I'm so happy for our friends. They're going to start new families. That's always nice.

-Well, you and Mamoru must not be far away from doing the same. - Setsuna smiled. -

-I don't know. - Her interlocutor replied, blushing a little. - It still depends on many things. But we're really looking forward to it. By the way, did you talk to Chibiusa?

-Yes, a little while ago. I was very happy to see her, she has grown up a lot. - Pluto affirmed. -

Usagi looked carefully at her companion and her face became a little more serious to comment.

- What about you? Have you never thought about starting a family?

That took Setsuna by surprise. Usagi was aware of her role as guardian of the solar system and the space-time portal. Although she wasn't sure if her future sovereign had ever suspected what she felt... She only hoped not. Still, she shook her head and replied calmly.

-My duties as a warrior do not give me the chance to be with anyone.

-But you must have liked some guy. Well, I mean... I guess you like men, right? - her companion asked her with a certain caution: - "If I may ask...".

              Sailor Pluto felt a little violent. She did not know the reason for this kind of interrogation. Perhaps Usagi had overdone it with the champagne. However, when she heard her interlocutor speak, she perceived that she was not speaking in a frivolous manner. That certainly wasn't the tone that girl would use to gossip about cute guys or anything like that. There had to be more to it. So, she looked at her blonde companion and her eyes met hers. Then, in a more serious and respectful way, Setsuna asked.

- What are you getting at, Your Majesty? I assure you that nothing like that has ever or will ever get in the way of my mission.

- And what is your mission? - The alluded one asked her as if she was ignoring her. -

This gave the impression of being test: was her interlocutor expecting a certain answer? In any case, she could only give her one.

-You know very well. - She answered with evident discomfort, as she explained. - To protect you, King Endymion, and the Small Lady. And to watch over the space-time portal. Even though it is now sealed by the power of Father Cronos, it cannot be lost from sight.

Her companion sighed, it seemed as if she had something very important to tell her and was gathering courage to do so. Thus, Usagi finally declared.

-His Majesty King Endimion, and I, as Queen Serenity, have a great favor to ask of you. A very great service if you will. It is something very sacrificial, and one that you will not be able to discuss with absolutely no one, except the king and myself. And no one else. At least until you fulfill the assignment, we must give you. And it will be something that will take you a long, long time.

-Time is something I have never worried about. – Setsuna smiled faintly. - And if it is for the good of the future of the Kingdom of neo-Crystal Tokyo, of the Earth and of the solar system, I will do whatever you ask of me. My own life is at your disposal if that's what it comes to. - She said emphatically. -

Although, to her surprise, the girl seemed to be talking like Usagi again now, since she laughed with a hand to her neck and exclaimed.

-Well, woman... It's no big deal! I assure you it won't be any drama....

The timekeeper looked at her with her mouth open, she was very puzzled. She didn't have the slightest idea of what her sovereigns could expect her to do. Then Mamoru joined them. The young man greeted politely and once he was made aware of the conversation the two were having, he stated.

-You see Setsuna, we have meditated at length and in our opinion, you are the only one qualified to carry out this mission successfully.

- As I have told her Majesty the queen. I am at your entire disposal. - The sailor answered categorically. - Command and I will obey you," - she said with a bow.

Immediately her companions dissuaded her from it, Usagi even went so far as to hold her by the arm so that she would not kneel...

-That is not necessary here. We are at a friends' celebration. - She affirmed in a low voice. -

-Don't worry, Setsuna. We appreciate as always; the fidelity and dedication you show in everything you do for us. However, now is not the time to tell you more about it or give you details. We will do it later. - Mamoru added. -

- And when will I receive instructions? - the girl wanted to know. -

-You will, my friend, no doubt about it. In due time... as you like to say. - Usagi smiled at her, now placing a hand on the right shoulder of her companion with obvious affection. - And as the king says. Thank you very much for your loyalty. I assure you that we appreciate you very much.

Setsuna nodded gratefully in return for those words. She had no idea what kind of mission her sovereigns wanted to entrust her with. In any case, she would perform it to the best of her ability and as far as she had to go to accomplish it. At least Serenity did not seem to be aware of how her loyal warrior blushed in the presence of King Endymion. For a long time now, the lonely guardian of the time-space gate could not help but feel something very deep towards that kind and handsome man. However, she always knew that this love was forbidden to her. She sighed, trying to control her heartbeat. Luckily, they didn't have time to talk any more. Chibiusa and the Asteroids arrived and were having a great time. They laughed at their friends' jokes and exchanged anecdotes. This time it was Mamoru who went ahead to tell his future daughter.

- How's everything? Have you chatted with our friends?

-Very much, they're very nice, especially Roy. He's always making jokes! - the little girl laughed. - And Cooan was very happy to see me. Her boyfriend, well her husband now, is also a very nice guy.

-I'm glad. - Her interlocutor smiled adding now: - "As soon as the ceremony is over, I guess you'll go back to the future with the Asteroids.

- Yes," - the girl sighed, adding. - I'm going to miss you all. At least I'll have the Amazons though.

- Do you already know if you have something to do there? - Mamoru wanted to know. -

-I think that before I came, the rulers, that is, you in the future, told me that a very important mission awaited me. - The girl answered him. -

-That's right. - Her interlocutor agreed, placing both hands on the girl's shoulders and referring to her. - You and the Amazons have already met the person you will have to deal with, but now it is someone very different. She must start afresh, and your fundamental task will be to guide her towards the good, to advise her properly and to be her friends. For now, I can tell you nothing more. In the future you will be brought up to date. Then you will go back to the past, but to one located a few years later than the moment you are in now. There you will find who you will have to mentor. And you will have to spend a lot of time with that person to make sure everything goes well. Well, both you and the Amazons.

-Yes, both of you be careful. You already explained something to me in the future. - I'll do my best. - The girl nodded without wanting to reveal anything else. -

-Both Usagi and I have full confidence in you. You're already experienced and you're a great girl, Chibiusa. - Her companion replied approvingly. -

The girl couldn't help blushing, she loved to receive that kind of compliments, especially if they came from Mamoru. Well, she had to control herself, and remember that he was her father from the future. Besides, as soon as she returned, she could pay a visit to the guardian of Elision. She nodded smiling and declared.

-You will see that I will not disappoint you.

-We are sure of it. - Her interlocutor nodded. -

-Yes. -We're counting on you and the Asteroids. - Usagi added. -

-Of course. - Ves-Ves said. -

-We won't fail you; you'll see. - Jun-jun added.

- We are already great warriors! - Para-Para enthusiastically declared. -

-And we have experience. We will help the princess in the task you have given her. Whatever it is. - Cere- Cere added. -

- And what about you, P? - Chibiusa smiled and turned to her dear friend who had moved away from the hustle and bustle. - Have my future parents given you a mission too? -

-Well, no way! You know how they are. They wanted to ask me if I was having fun at the party. - The girl said, trying to sound jovial with little success. -

Chibiusa nodded, although she couldn't help but smile a little smile. Poor Setsuna didn't know how to lie. She supposed it would happen to her as it did to herself, she wouldn't be allowed to say anything. So, she let it go. Anyway, they stopped chatting about it as Roy and Tom also came over to say hello to see if everything was okay. Of course, they said yes. Usagi approached them in turn and even joked that even she couldn't have any more canapés. They went on like that for quite a while. Exchanging in more huddles and in a very jovial atmosphere. Afterwards, Mamoru, the sailors, Chibiusa and the Amazons said their goodbyes. Then the others. Each of the newlywed couples left to spend their wedding night. When after a while they were able to meet again and tell each other about their respective experiences, things had been like this. Ail and Ann went to a planet beyond the solar system, although it was not as paradisiacal as they had imagined. They had to deal with strange beings and the most surprising thing is that they found many of their own kind that they had believed to be extinct long ago. And after an initial ordeal for both, they managed to teach their "brothers" what love was really like. They remembered that, without going any further, one of them, named Eril, curiously approached Ann, and asked her.

- What if I wanted to court one of ours in the human way, what should I do?

-Well, that depends on what she's like," - Annie replied. - Try to find out what she likes, if she's interested in you, and be nice to her. Things like that.

-Look," - Ail explained, hugging his wife, and giving her a long kiss on the lips. - It's a thing like that.

- Don't be so quick, Ail! - Annie smiled, a bit embarrassed, to calm her perplexed student. - Before that there are other steps to take.

-Well, I don't get it," - Eril said, feeling rather confused. -

-Look, why don't you call a girl, and we'll explain it to both of you? - Ail suggested with a mischievous smile.

- What an idea you have! - Annie reproached him as they watched Eril walk away to fulfill that suggestion. –

-Come on Annie, we're going to laugh," - her companion declared rather amused at the idea. -

              And of course, it made for laughs, but also for more dramatic and emotional moments... In the end it all went well, and they both returned enriched by the experience. Tom and Cooan, who did indeed go to Hawaii, explained that they didn't have a very orthodox honeymoon either. But they did not want to give too many details. What they told most in depth, though, was the first day of arrival. They stayed in a luxurious hotel that was very close to the sea. He, helped by a bellboy, brought in the suitcases, and gave the bellboy a splendid tip. The bellboy, a dark-skinned boy with the typical features of the natives of the islands, smiled and hastened to thank him.

-If you and your wife need anything, don't hesitate to call me, and ask for it," - he said, - "and congratulations, I wish you much happiness. - He riveted with a broad and helpful smile. -

-Thank you very much, my boy. - Tom then asked him. - Please, can you tell my wife to wait at the door? Thank you.

The bellboy nodded and left the room, which was a bungalow attached to the hotel that Tom had booked a couple of weeks before leaving for Hawaii. Cooan was alerted by the boy and called her husband from the doorway.

-I'm here, honey. Will I have to wait long? - She was both surprised and curious. -

-I won't be long, my love," - he answered quickly. - I'll be right with you. Please wait a little longer.

He had ordered a dinner consisting of seafood, lobster, pineapples, and other typical products of the place. He had also arranged some candles and garlands of flowers distributed in two necklaces. In an ice bucket two bottles, one of rosé wine of good vintage and another of champagne of excellent quality. A skirt of reeds and a sarong, on a screen that was near the bed, completed the set. When everything was ready, the boy went to the door and lifted his wife in his arms.

-Well, Mrs. Rodney. - He whispered. - "You can come in now. - Cooan opened her eyes and looked around, smiling happily - Tom let her sit on one of the comfortable cane chairs and he sat on the one opposite. They served themselves and began to dine. The rays of the setting sun filtered through the windows through the blinds that partially covered them. The girl noticed the flowers and the skirt on the screen. Tom said to her.

-I'm sure you'll look very pretty. I was told it was a local custom, to adorn the bride like that.

With a smile the girl got up and went behind the screen and took the skirt and flowers.

-Wait for me a moment. - She asked her husband, who was waiting with a keen eye on the silhouette she could see behind the faint paper. - I won't be long...

Cooan changed behind the screen, leaving her clothes on it, while she took the flowers and the skirt from the top of the screen. She came out looking splendid, showing off her body with nothing but the reed skirt and the flower garland necklace that hid part of her breasts. She walked toward him, gesturing to the Hawaiian welcome dance they were treated to upon arrival. Her husband pulled the armchair away from the table and sat her on his lap, they kissed and then, getting up, they watched the sunset over the ocean together. After sunset, they went to bed. Tom gently stripped his wife of her flowers and skirt, while she took off her clothes....

-I'm looking forward to watching the sunrise from our room. - The girl sighed. -

-Well, I'm more interested now in other things we can do in it. - Tom whispered, making her laugh. –

          Roy and Beruche began their adventures by taking a plane to Europe. After passing through the UK and saying hello to Nephrite they accepted their friends' invitation and visited Paris for a few days, sightseeing along with Diamond and Emerald who showed them around the city. The model and designer woman were becoming more and more successful, and Bertie was delighted to attend one of her boss's fashion shows at the Deveraux house. Roy and Diamond for their part toured quite a few places in and around Paris. The prince of Nemesis advised his friend about good wines in the area.  Then the newlyweds went to Spain. First, they visited Barcelona, continued to Madrid and other Spanish provinces, passing through some adventures in the center of the country that they preferred to keep for their own memories, just as Tom and Cooan did with theirs. Later they continued to Seville. Roy, who could speak Spanish, communicated with the people without any problems, enjoying the open, talkative, witty, and friendly character of these people very much, which was very much like his own. Beruche also had a wonderful time, seeing monuments with which he filled reels of photos and attending some typical shows of each province and especially of the Andalusian capital. They returned to the hotel in Seville, tired after a long day touring the city. But the boy still had a surprise in store, he made Bertie come out to the balcony.

- What's the matter Roy? I'm very tired. - She commented to him as she leaned out. -

- Look what a beautiful view! - he indicated pointing to the famous Giralda and the Guadalquivir river that shone with golden reflections at sunset. - Don't you think it's beautiful?

- Yes Roy," - his wife agreed with a smile, adding delightedly. - It's wonderful!

They heard a murmur below them and he looked down and said in Spanish.

- Now boys!

A melody began to play, accompanying a song. The boy slid down a fire bar and joined the singers, they were the famous Spanish tunos from the University of Seville.

- You're a sweetheart! - She smiled, excited, amused, and even blushing, as Roy translated the song's lyrics into English. -

"Carnations, carnations,

***Carnations from my heart.***

***Today I bring you carnations***

***Colored just like a strawberry.***

***If someday carnations***

***I won't be able to bring you,***

***Don't think that I don't love you anymore,***

***It's just that I couldn't bring them to you" ...***

At the end, the tunos gave the boy one of their capes and a wineskin from which they taught him to drink, and for Beruche a large bouquet of flowers. He reciprocated by inviting them to dinner at the hotel and after taking some photos with them, then went upstairs with his wife.

- Now honey. - He said to her. - Let's celebrate our last night of vacation in style. - He lifted his wife in his arms as she screamed and laughed and kicked playfully and they both lay down on the bed. -

            And so, they all had a wonderful Honeymoon, but time flew by, and it was time for them to return to normal life, albeit married. Ail and Ann, after a few more avatars, settled on that planet, but regularly visited their friends on Earth, spacing out the visits more and more, since they had to take care of their family, which was increased years later with the birth of a girl, whom they named Naya. Tom and Cooan moved permanently to the west coast, specifically to Oregon, near Portland. He set up his long-desired martial arts gymnasium which achieved a stupendous reputation and Cooan continued her work as a kindergarten teacher and was much loved by all her pupils. As for Roy and Beruche, the latter continued to play for the Knicks and became an excellent professional, almost achieving with his team a ring the following season as they were league finalists. Beruche was still teaching at a high school in a rather troubled area of the city. But with her courage and determination, coupled with her great understanding and vocation for teaching, she soon won the respect and attention of her students. Soon after, however, she received a wonderful offer to work in a prestigious private school. After serious consideration, she accepted. It was a great opportunity for the future. She was also able to make occasional contact with Melanie who finished her doctorate and was able to enter Golden State College, as she wished, as a professor. In addition to attending as guests, along with Tom, and Cooan, at the wedding of her ex-partner and the rugby player, Bertie and Mel got to meet for a drink and reminisce about old times.

- How is everything going over there? - Beruche wanted to know, as the two of them were having tea in a coffee shop. -

-As usual, the promotions are passing by, but it seems that everything remains the same. - Melanie said. -

- And how Miss Parker is doing?

-As usual, stern, and strict, but not so bad at heart. I think she has even softened a little. – Melanie smiled. -

-That's good. She certainly shows an image that does not correspond to her real background as a person. - Beruche admitted. -

They both remembered those hard times in the past when they thought they had lost Roy. Palmer not only disregarded Bertie's reaction to her but interceded so that her record would not be affected.

-Well, whenever I tell her I'm coming to see you she always gives me lots of regards, for you, for your sister and for Roy and Tom. Too bad we can't all meet up. - Mel commented. - And we also remember your sister Petz and the rest. We really liked them.

Well, my sister and brother-in-law are settled in Portland. And the others are in other countries. Each one with her own life. And they're fine. Tell me. How are you guys doing? Apart from your doctorate. - Beruche replied. -

-The truth is that Malcolm is not doing well, he injured his knee and is on sick leave. - Melanie sighed. - You know how he likes football.

-But he'll recover, I'm sure. - Her interlocutor wanted to cheer her up. -

-I don't know. At the college level it was easier. But as a professional he must be at one hundred percent, and even then, it's difficult to play as a starter. Luckily, he was also getting his coaching and physical education teacher's degree. I think that, deep down, he never thought he could succeed.

-He needs to have more self-confidence. Roy always tells me Malcolm is a great player.

Melanie nodded, though her countenance was sad. She was able to say in a glum tone.

-He was in college, yes, but maybe not good enough to make it in the big leagues. Yet, despite everything, I never hear him complain or lament. I'm the one who suffers for him.

-Well, don't let him see it. - Her friend advised her. - Surely, if he's having a hard time and hiding it, it's mainly because of you. In that he's just like Roy, and like almost all men, they have that silly pride of theirs not to show themselves vulnerable in front of us. You stay by his side and encourage him.

Although Beruche had to admit that her now-husband did show himself to be very vulnerable, especially when they met their son from the future. Past that irrational jealousy of his. To be sure, when he discovered who Leval was, the guilt tore him apart. Then he was able to make amends admirably. And Bertie even thought that their relationship might be over. However, after that ordeal, they loved each other even more.

-Now I understand what happened to Usagi with Mamoru. They too had to overcome very difficult trials, it was part of their destiny, to forge their love even more. - She meditated. -

Although her friend Mel snapped her out of those thoughts when she replied to her advice.

-You're right. That's what I'll do, I'll encourage him more.

- And as for April, have you heard from her? - Bertie asked, changing the subject of the conversation. -

-Nothing at all. - Her interlocutor commented. - She seems to have evaporated. Anyway, I told you something, but I didn't tell you everything. - She added to unveil. - She was very ill, something in her mind wasn't right, and she had a newborn daughter.

Bertie thought she remembered something about it, that poor girl was sick! Too bad there was nothing they could do. She even thought about asking Roy to see if he could locate her with his translation. However, she quickly dismissed the idea. If she couldn't do it with her own sister, she couldn't do it with someone who might not want to be found either. And besides, how was she going to explain that to Melanie?

-I only hope that everything goes well for him. - Beruche declared. –

             Her friend nodded with the same hope, and they chatted about more pleasant things. After saying goodbye, it was a long time before they saw each other again. Unfortunately, the same was true for the rest of their friendships. There were very few times they were able to see each other in those years, and most of the times they met were due to force majeure situations to defend the Earth from various threats. On the next occasion, just returned from their honeymoon, it was a gigantic meteorite that could be destroyed thanks to the combined effort of the group and the invaluable help of a new character who appeared as mysteriously as Leval himself from the future. It was another Saiyajin and what would be everyone's surprise to discover that this newcomer, named Lornd, was none other than Roy's own older brother, or Asthel, as he called his younger brother. He was even stronger than his kinsman and of rather rougher manners, though it seemed so to them at first glance. The truth is that he surprised everyone by proving to be more sentimental and sensitive than his tough warrior facade showed. During that crisis he spent some time with his newfound family and then said goodbye. But he did not leave alone, in those weeks he met the sailors and got to know Pluto in particular, the eldest and loneliest, with whom he made good friends. They made such good friends that they both left to patrol the solar system and even beyond, in anticipation of new attacks by Gralas, for it was this elusive alien who was behind this apparently natural cataclysm. In the same way that he had been the promoter of the androids that the boys managed, not without great effort, to destroy. As a result of all that, the city was once again practically devastated, but, as it could not be otherwise, the reconstruction work was already advanced and the preventive measures yielded results, mitigating the foreseeable destruction. Without going any further, a huge retaining wall, built for that purpose, protected New York Bay from the great sea waves that were produced because of the meteorite explosion. During that time, they continued to know nothing of Karaberasu's whereabouts, although through unofficial sources they learned that she was well. There was also the opportunity for them to live separate adventures. Like one that Emerald told her friends on one of the few occasions in which they met without battles.

-You see, girls. It turns out that Masters, the eccentric millionaire, became infatuated with me, bought all my designs, and even kidnapped me by taking me to an island he owned. This happened shortly after the invasion of those androids. He wanted to lure Diamond to get his computer knowledge and seduce me. But I must admit that he was a nice and very educated man. Very classy. Deep down he is not a bad person, he just tried to do things the wrong way.

- The wrong way? - Petz asked her with a mischievous twist.

- Diamond wasn't really amused! - Her interlocutor smiled. -

- And did she get it? - Cooan asked with a curious gesture.

- What did he get? - Emerald asked her in turn, not quite understanding what she meant. -

-Seducing you, that millionaire. - Beruche, who had understood the nuance of the question, clarified confidentially. -

-The truth is, yes. - She admitted in a low voice. The other girls covered their mouths to keep from laughing. - "But not in the way I'm sure you're imagining, you scoundrels! - A blushing Emerald hastened to nuance and added. - In fact, the matter got out of hand. He wanted to experiment with the remnants of the technology left over from those enemy robots of the future. And one of them got out of control. Fortunately, Diamond was able to deal with it.

- Fortunately, everything ended well. - Cooan sighed. -

-Yes, although you know Diamond when he forms an opinion. I thought Masters was an unreliable guy. Although later we met his secretary, a very nice girl. Jennifer, her name is, she managed to persuade my restless boyfriend to forget about that and work for him.

- Yes, Jenny! We know who she is. Thank goodness!  That girl is certainly quite convincing. - Beruche said. –

               The others agreed. She was certainly a great girl, intelligent, enthusiastic, and capable of accomplishing almost anything she set her mind to. It was not surprising that, soon after, the same millionaire fell in love with her and asked her to marry him. That wedding was indeed a grand affair and the whole group was certainly invited. However, there were even more marriages and engagements. Sentimental affairs were also lavished, as much or more than the struggles to defend the Earth. On another occasion it was Tom's younger brother, Daniel, who met a somewhat wild girl who had been a former enemy of the sailors. The two fell in love and became a couple. Which was much celebrated by their friends and family. Finally, after overcoming these adversities, it seemed that destiny gave them a truce, which they all enjoyed, returning to their daily lives and chores with pleasure. After a year, Petz and Sapphire got married and had a very interesting honeymoon trip to South America, although they scared all their friends and relatives because it was impossible to contact them during the trip. Diamond and Emerald also got married, although they only spent their honeymoon in Europe, visiting their friend Nephrite who received them in the company of his later wife, Amanda Thompson. They all met again for the wedding and then separated again, this time in a more obvious way, as each couple had already made their own life. But, after a while, a new event would bring them together again. As Mamoru predicted, it was time to increase the number of defenders of Justice. The first to contribute to this, although the rest did not know it, was Karaberasu who had given birth a few years earlier. None had heard from her again and they would not know until much later. Next was to be Beruche, who became pregnant a year and a half after their wedding. Cooan was also to become pregnant a few months later. Bertie was initially unsure, but her gynecologist confirmed it. She then went wild with joy, but with her usual mastery of gesture and apparent coolness, she sat on the couch quietly watching TV and waited for Roy to come in from his training. After half an hour, her husband came in almost at a run, greeting her with his usual enthusiasm.

- Hi, honey, I'm home! - He announced in a loud voice, took Bertie in his arms, and gave her a kiss. - Humm, I can't wait to get going! - He gasped, throwing on top of her. -

- Be careful, you fool! - She asked him who, far from being annoyed, added smiling. - You're going to crush me. You should be gentler with your little wife.

- Come on! - Roy said, getting up laughing and commenting jocularly. - Are you going to tell me that a girl as tough as you, who has fought against so many dangers, is going to be afraid of being crushed a little bit in a loving way?

- That's not why," - the girl laughed as she answered. - It's not just me, Roy, there's a certain little person in here. - She pointed to her belly in which nothing could be seen yet and concluded without being able to contain her happy expression - you can do a lot of damage to him, and I still don't think he can become a super warrior, hee, hee, hee, hee.

Her husband at first seemed not to understand well, he had left her again on the couch and he himself had sat looking at her in disbelief. The boy was stunned, however, he finally understood what his wife had meant. After a moment a flash went through his head. His eyes widened like saucers, and he jumped to his feet as if propelled by a spring.

- Are you telling me that you are - Beruche was nodding and still laughing. - Oh, no! I mean, yes, well, I can't believe it! - he exclaimed, jumping up and down in the room and repeating euphorically. - Are you pregnant? Is that it? Oh my God, I can't believe it.

- Well, believe it, it's not that hard. - said the girl said, who added even more exhilarated when she saw her husband's face. - Do you understand now why you should be more careful with me, silly? Hee, hee, hee.

- Did I, did I, did I hurt you?" - her embarrassed husband stammered, interlocking the fingers of his hands as if he were going to pray. He was very nervous and even worried. - Forgive me, I didn't mean to do it, I didn't calculate my strength well, oh no, I'm stupid! Are you all, right? - Beruche nodded with laughter while he continued to ask visibly worried. - Aren't you in any pain?

Roy's face was a poem, he was pacing around the room, what if because of his impetus and his childish games he had hurt his wife and the child?  Bertie got up and took him by the arm and said more calmly and gently.

- Calm down, don't be silly, man. It was just a joke; you didn't squeeze me so hard. Believe me, the baby will resist. I know it very well. It carries the blood of a space warrior.

                 The boy sighed in relief, hugging his wife, albeit very carefully. He lifted her gently in his arms and carried her to the bedroom and declared a little calmer but beaming with joy.

- For tonight and for some time to come, we'll have to take good care of you. Tell me if you want anything and I'll bring it to you.

- Roy. - Beruche smiled and shook her head. - I'm the same as always and I'm in the mood today too.

- Anything! - he replied solicitously. - An ice cream, a yogurt...!

- It's not that, silly, it's you I want! Bertie kissed him, closing the bedroom door behind them. –

          And that was a great night. They were both immensely happy because all their wishes were coming true. Finally, married, living together in peace, (except for a few interruptions caused by a few affairs that always worked out well). They were both managing to prosper in their respective careers. Roy as a player increasingly valued and applauded by all spectators and coaches.  Although, thanks to some issues that he had to solve sometimes with his friends and even the help of the Justicieras, he had to excuse some injury to not play the matches that coincided with his interventions as Golden Warrior (Otherwise they would have won the final). But he knew that he would have more opportunities to play, and the first thing was the Earth. Bertie, for her part, combined well her performances as a vigilante practically on her own, as did the rest of the girls, each one on her own in various parts of the world. However, the frequency with which she was in the limelight became less and less with the news of her pregnancy. Now both young men felt they had reached the pinnacle of happiness - this was all they had left to fulfill their dreams! Although neither of them used to say it out loud, they hoped for a little Leval. And Beruche ended up leaving her activities as a Justiciera for as long as her pregnancy lasted and even afterwards to take care of her baby when she had one. She was also studying the proposal to move to a quieter and better paid school. She would thus be able to enjoy an atmosphere more appropriate to her new state and be able to take better care of the growing family. It could be said that the couple's joy was echoed by that of their friends in all parts of the world. Each one with their projects and their dreams were also being fulfilled. However, they never let their guard down, since now they were practically the greatest guarantors of the planet's security, since even the sailors' group seemed to have disbanded. Chibiusa returned to her future, Mamoru traveled to the United States again to study medicine. Ami did the same, although she considered going to Germany first, then decided to study and even pursue her doctorate in North America. The others (including Usagi) were more than determined to prepare themselves to be someone in their future. Rei took charge of the shrine and with her sensitivity and divinatory gifts became a highly respected figure throughout Japan. She also sometimes performed as a singer with her friend Minako, using the pseudonym, Reiko. Makoto set up her florist and coffee shop business with great success. Flowers & Flavors called her.  Petz helped her in every way she could and the two spent a lot of time together as well as recommending each other's establishments to their customers. As for Minako, she got into trouble with Queen Serenity and King Endymion by not following the instructions she was given. She wanted to locate and help Karaberasu. In fact, she managed to see the young girl, although she did not talk to her. That cost her to be suspended for almost a couple of years and for Artemis to lose his status as an emissary of the Moon, being reduced to the status of an ordinary feline. Despite this, the girl went on with her life and career. She became a successful singer and actress in Japan, later extending her fame to the rest of the world. A short time later, everything would be settled, and she would regain her place among the sailors, as well as Artemis her special gifts. As for the sailors of the outer solar system, Setsuna had gone with Roy's brother into space and although he returned with some frequency had established its field of action at a great distance and even further away when they discovered still populated with Saiyan the planet of their ancestors. After some hard tests he regained his throne, and she was accepted by that rough and demanding people. Subsequently all attended the wedding of that Saiyan with Setsuna, who had to give up her position as guardian to become the queen of the planet New Vegeta. Thus, the space warriors signed a solemn pact of friendship with the Earth and the Moon. Represented by the future rulers of Crystal Tokyo and that eccentric millionaire who gave Diamond so many headaches at the time. It was one of the few occasions in which Roy, Bertie, the rest of their friends and the sailors met, and, moreover, far from Earth. For their part, Pluto's companions, Uranus, and Neptune both settled down free from the rest, once exempted from the responsibility of taking care of Hotaru who stayed living with her father and his new wife, rescued by Diamond from the hell of Tau. The girl had already become an attractive young woman with half dark hair and violet eyes. She was practically the only sailor still active. Her companions, Haruka, and Michiru, free at last of other burdens, dedicated themselves to live adventures together and to pursue their careers. One in the world of competition, dedicated to motorcycling, and the other to her violin recitals and painting exhibitions. Just a few years later, Chibiusa, now a fifteen-year-old girl of beauty on a par with her mother's, returned from the future with her guardians, the sailor asteroids, who had taken over from the previous generation of sailors. The young girl had been busy training to be a good princess and in the following years she was also mentoring another very young queen whom she would eventually introduce to her friends. In short. All these adventures lived by the different protagonists would be too long to tell, each one has its own story and should be narrated at other times and circumstances. Above all, because the events were happening rapidly in their normal chores and the course of life continued.

**START**