Wow, I found this post very interesting! Sailor Moon (anime version) was my first fandom, but for years I've looked back on it as kid stuff. This post made me think I should try the manga, if I ever get a hold of it; your description sounds promising. Also, I had no idea that it was such a manageable length...the anime version has so many seasons that I thought the manga must be looooooong, but 18 volumes is a totally reasonable amount to read! (And yes, the art does look great.)