Earthian Fan Fiction / Fake Fan Fiction / Pet Shop Of Horrors Fan Fiction ❯ Spun Sugar ❯ 10-15 ( Chapter 10 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Himenokori
Here is some more of Spun Sugar, so sorry for the delay. I will try to get more up soon.

Anime/Manga: Earthian Fan Fiction / Fake Fan Fiction / Pet Shop Of Horrors Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Action / Drama / Hentai / Romance | Type: Crossover | Uploaded On: 07.13.2007 | Pages: 12 | Words: 29.3K | Visits: 253 | Status: Completed

Chapter 10
Glass Heart
Dee inhaled deeply trying to fill his starved lungs with much needed oxygen. Ryo sat on the bed and stared at the lush hunter green rug. He counted each darker green whorl all the while concentrating on not looking at Dee. “Ryo… Baby…”
“Don't… Dee. Please just don't say anything. Just leave.” Ryo swallowed hard hoping to get the rest of his words past the clump of regret in his throat. Failing miserably he gave up and simply noted the dark red spots in each of the darker whorls. In his head he multiplied them and within moments he knew the exact number of red dots on the entire rug.
“Don't do this Ryo… Don't do this to me.” Dee began but paused when Ryo's red-rimmed eyes focused on him and overflowed.
“You hurt me Dee.” Ryo's soft words pierced Dee's heart more painfully than a poisoned dagger. “I had to seek medical assistance.” Ryo sniffled and looked away from the shock on Dee's face. “Please Dee just…”
“Go,” Dee said softly and picked up the suitcase. Without another word he left the room shutting the door softly behind him. Ryo curled over onto the bed and hugged a pillow tight to his chest.
Break
Collins entered the loft and laughed in sheer joy. For days he had been terrified that Angel was getting sicker. Now to look at his glowing face and hear his laughter you would never know that he had been a coughing and shivering wreck. “Mother could not have been laid to rest in a finer way. I mean we are all going to go one day but that was by far the best. I will miss her, but I am glad she is at peace.” Angel said to Roger who looked at him in silence before he went back to strumming his guitar.
“Yeah,” Roger sighed and stared at his pick as if it had all the answers to his lost tunes. “We are all going to go one day, all I want is one… song…”
Break
Count D stared at Leon and pouted. It was a rarely used affectation but one potent nonetheless. “D… Baby, be reasonable.”
“This is a very disagreeable city. I do not like it here. I want to return to our home.” D's words were uttered with a final snap. “Ryo and Dee are on the verge of splitting, something odd is bothering JJ and I fear for my father, something has followed Kagetsuya and Chihaya. I fear for us all.” Leon wrapped his arms around D and kissed him deeply. “No,” D wrenched his lips away from Leon. “You will not distract me by making my body yours, please listen to me. I feel something here and it is not pleasant. Leon my love, I have been alive for a very long time, I have come across many things, but I am afraid… It is not just you or myself that we need to worry about.”
Aoi chose that moment to toddle into her parents' room. She stared up at them with her deep pools of crystal blue eyes and Leon sighed. “The chief called, we are here for two weeks. There was a threat called against us at the precinct. Can you last two weeks?” Leon asked and picked up his daughter. “Jewel, how is daddy's little treasure?” Leon blew a kiss at his daughter who laughed and reciprocated.
“Two weeks… Then we are going home.” D promised and scooted closer to D on the bed. Chris looked into the room and then at Bikky. He shrugged and went back in the nursery with Honlon.
“Do you know what is going on?” Chris asked Bikky as they went back to their game of Checkers. Lyo lay with his head on Bikky's lap.
“I don't know man, Ryo is locked in his room, Dee is in another room and Lyo just dripped orange juice in my lap. How are things on your end?”
“D just freaked out and wants to go home, someone threatened them at home so we are all stuck here for two weeks and now they are sitting on the bed playing with Jewel.” Chris said and studied the board.
“You know, with our lives… this is almost normal.” Chris said and looked up as D and Leon entered the room carrying Aoi. They sat the small child in a playpen in front of the massive dragon.
“You are on ultra alert. If anyone enters this room that is not Arcadian, or a commissioned officer of Arcadia, you will destroy them immediately.” D informed the dragon and T-Chan. “Children, everything you need is in this room you are not to leave it until we return.”
“Where are you going?” Bikky dared to ask.
“To a café,” Leon answered with a smirk. Personally he thought D was paranoid, but he would admit that D was often right. Chris peered at his niece as she happily played with her teddy.
“Have fun…” Bikky sighed and went back to studying the board.
Break
“I am telling you, this Princess is muy caliente y totalmente atractivo.” Angel smirked and poked Mark in the ribs. “Maureen could take some pointers on the ultimate flirt ha! Puede ser que intente al otro equipo para ella.” Angel swished his polka dotted miniskirt and giggled. He looked over at Collins and blew him a kiss. Collins grinned; he loved when Angel reverted to Spanish. Especially when they… Angel correctly interpreted the heated look. “Mi fuego se quema caliente solamente para usted mi amor.” Collins laughed. The sparkle was back in his angel's eyes; the world was a good place to be.
Break
Roger stared in awe at the purple and black clad vision standing before him. Willowy slim and blindingly beautiful were the only words that could describe the person. The physical features paled in comparison to the single deep amethyst eye that was visible. Not that the features were any less striking. “Collins, tell me that you were lying when you said that was a man.” Count D laughed and Leon was glad to see the frightening defense fade from his eyes.
“It is a pleasure to meet you.” Count D bowed his sleeves fell back and exposed his graceful hands. “Your Angel has told me much about you. Please let me introduce our angels.” Count D laughed again and hid a secret smirk. “Kagetsuya and Chihaya.” Roger stared aghast at Chihaya, was it even legal for him to be out this late? Roger backed away at the green-eyed glare that Kagetsuya dealt him. Kagetsuya glanced at Mimi before he looked away from Roger.
“Your friends could not make it?” Angel asked with a delicate pout. He looked past Count D to see Lord D standing by the door avoiding his gaze. JJ stood beside him and patted his hand. Angel smiled at Lord D and took a step towards him only to have Lord D move away and sit down at an available booth. Angel paused mid-step before he turned a blinding too bright smile on Ryo. “It is a pleasure to see you again, I am glad you could make it.” Angel noted that Dee stood away from his lover. “Well, the poets are up first.” Angel informed them and sat at the elongated table that they had made by merging several tables despite the maitre d's protests.
A young woman stepped onto the stage and adjusted the microphone. Her long black skirt brushed the wooden planks. She stared intently at Count D before she smiled. Once her long dark hair was swept away from her face her beauty mesmerized the audience. Clear topaz eyes bored into D before moving on to Lord D who sat in the back of the café with JJ. She inhaled and began to speak in a hauntingly beautiful voice that did not need the microphone despite its softness.
“Fruit is just the swollen ovaries of a plant.
Yet it is fruit that started the chaos of the world
Gardens fall amidst the sweetness
Bitter seeds incite brutal war
Beautiful faces one and the same
I tell you now…
I knew your name
Pitiful deceit in the belly of a horse
Centuries lost, Family ties shred
Wombs are not an issue in gold
Hearts decide in the end
Fruit is just the swollen ovaries of a plant”
The audience stared confused at the odd syntax of the poem. The poet took one more long look at Count and Lord D before she turned and exited the stage amidst the polite applause. Count D sat with a thoughtful frown on his face as he muddled over the words. He shook away the shiver that coursed the length of his spine. Leon ran a hand over his arm and gave him a frown. Count D smiled to reassure him and Leon smiled before he leaned over and traced his lips over Count D's. Count closed his eyes and opened his mouth allowing Leon's questing tongue to possess his own.
Dee gazed at Count D and Leon before he looked over at Ryo and sighed. The next poet took the stage and the audience gave him their attention as he began to recite the words of his heart. Several more poets came and went when the door of the café opened and a large crowd entered. They stood for a moment gazing about in the darkness of the interior before moving over to sit at the large table with Count D and the others. Count D inclined his head in a regal nod. “My Lady, I am pleased that you could make it.” He said and Angel smiled brightly as he nudged Mark and pointed to Andy.
“Beautiful is she not?” Mark startled at the soft voice accompanied by the young man that sat beside him. “Careful I think her husband will eat you.”
“Husband?” Mark was forced to drag his eyes away from the dark skinned beauty to look in the direction of the tall, pale man beside her. Mark shivered; he had a decidedly predatory look in his deep blue eyes. Long black hair swept across his forehead and fell below his shoulders in an abundant sweep of silk. Mark stared in horror as the blue faded replaced with a faintly glowing golden color.
“Hey Mark, the last poet is up they are opening the mic for songs now.” Angle said destroying the hypnotic spell. Mark thought that he was seeing things as he looked at Nestoir again and his blue eyes were smiling at Angel.
“I do not know if we will be performing tonight. My wife just wanted to come and relax.” Nestoir grinned before he looked at Daphnus. Daphnus aimed an amused look at Mark before he looked at the stage. The screeching that the young woman was doing could not be called singing.
Dee leaned over and whispered to Andy. “Please, sing a song for me. I know it is a lot to ask, but please, just one.” Andy noted the pain that centered around the detectives heart and she sighed.
“Would you mind if I…” She wiggled her fingers at him and Dee nodded submitting to her emotional probe. Andy gasped and snatched away as if burned. Dee looked away from the sad tears that fell from her eyes. The microphone became available and she stood to her feet and walked quickly to the stage. “I am sorry that I walked here without waiting my turn. Please allow diplomatic immunity to my rudeness and forgive me my urge to sing. This is a dedication and an apology. I will not mention names, this is a sensitive matter but the from and to will understand.” Andy nodded and as if they were wired on the same frequency Nestoir approached the stage and picked up a waiting guitar.
Nestoir strummed it a few times to make sure it was tuned. Roger noted the way his fingers glided over the strings almost like a caress before he began the opening strains of music. Andy sighed and took a moment to quell the tremors in her heart before hse began to sing:
“You light me up and then I fall for you
You lay me down and then I call for you
Stumbling on reasons that are far and few
I'd let it all come down and then some for you
Pretty baby, don't you leave me
I have been saving smiles for you”
Ryo's eyes became riveted to the stage before he looked over at Dee. Tears brimmed and overflowed before he lowered his head and took several deep breaths.
“Pretty baby, why can't you see?
You're the one that I belong to
I'll be the embrace that keeps you warm
For you're the sun that breaks the storm
I'll be all right and I'll sleep sound
As long as you keep comin' round, oh pretty baby”
Andy aimed a sorrowful look at Ryo before she sniffled. Angel felt a tug on his heart as she sang. He looked around at the audience and gave a pleased smile that they all felt the emotions she so easily evoked with her sweet voice. Angel saw the pleading look that Dee was aiming at Ryo and wondered what had separated the two lovers. At Mothers funeral they had seemed inseparable.
“And I know things can't last forever” Andy sighed sadly before she continued.
“But there are lessons that you'll never learn
Oh, just the scent of you, it makes me hurt
So how's it you that makes me better
Pretty baby, don't you leave me
I have been saving smiles for you
Pretty baby, why can't you see?
You're the one that I belong to
I'll be the embrace that keeps you warm
For you're the sun that breaks the storm
I'll be all right and I'll sleep sound
As long as you keep comin'
Why can't you hold me and never let go
When you touch me, it is me that you own
Pretty baby, oh the place that you hold in my heart
Would you break it apart again? Oh pretty baby”
Ryo could not breathe. He tried, but the pain in his heart was making oxygen an unattainable goal. He thought of Dee and the years they had spent together and he tried in vain to inhale. Angel noted the sob that Ryo released and he gave a worried look to Dee who rushed to his side and took his lover into his arms.
“Pretty baby, don't you leave me
I have been saving smiles for you
Pretty baby, why can't you see?
You're the one that I belong to
I'll be the embrace that keeps you warm
For you're the sun that breaks the storm
I'll be all right and I'll sleep sound
As long as you keep comin' round
Pretty baby, why can't you see?
Pretty baby, don't you leave me
Pretty baby, why can't you see?
Pretty baby, don't you leave me
Oh pretty baby, my pretty baby, my pretty baby
Don't you leave me”
Andy was silent then and left the stage to enter the waiting arms of her husband. Dee walked over to Ryo and sat beside him. “Baby you are the best at hand to hand on the force. Ryo wanted to lean into Dee and allow him to hold him tight. Ryo wanted so badly to forget it all, to curl up into Dee and let the world melt away. “You should have kicked my ass. You could have gotten me off of you. I know you probably just did not want to hurt but… Baby you should have.”
Ryo felt as if he had been doused in ice water. He shoved away from Dee's reaching arms. “Wait, so you are saying that this is my fault?” Ryo stared in disbelief at his best friend, partner and lover. “Dee, we have been partners on the force for six years. For four of those years we have been lovers. I am in love with you,” Ryo paused and sighed when tears threatened. “I love you, you are my best friend. We have been raising children together.” Ryo paused and Dee was lost in the emotional tides of Ryo's deep, dark eyes. Dee reached for to take Ryo into his arms and Ryo surged to his feet. “I should not have to fight you!” Ryo gasped when he realized he had shouted the words. With an embarrassed blush he stormed from the café.
Angel got to his feet and meandered over to Lord D and JJ hoping they could shed some light on the emotional upheaval he could sense taking place. Angel paused when Lord D still could not look him in the eyes. “I am sorry,” Lord D sighed and spoke to his hands that were clasped tightly in JJ's. “But I can be of no help to you.” Lord D looked up at last and the sad tears that filled the bright purple orbs shocked Angel. “My father had already explained this to me, but I was stubborn and determined. I know now that I can not…” Lord D paused and felt his fathers' hand on his shoulder.
“My son can be of no help to you, but I can.” Sofu admitted. Angel stared in confusion at the beautiful man before him. “I must tell you that your life is close to an end. You will weaken and you will expire. If you are willing to come with us, I can eradicate the virus that courses through your veins. You have two weeks to think about it.” Angel gasped when Sofu vanished from the club. He looked around and was surprised to see the lights up and the café emptying of its patrons. Dee, with shoulders slumped left the café to return to his lonely room… alone.
“What just happened?” Angel asked he looked at Lord D and saw the excitement in his bright eyes. “I sat down a moment ago and now hours have passed.”
Lord D smiled and still did not reach out to touch Angel. “Think on all my father has said to you. We will leave and return to Los Angeles in two weeks time. I will hope that you will be among our numbers.” Lord D said and got to his feet. Angel went back to his friends and received several odd looks before they left the café.
Break
JJ stood still in the garden and refused to move. He did not want to go anywhere; he did not want to see. He could hear plainly the sound of the brutal abuse taking place but he did not want to move. He heard Lord D cry out and his feet moved on their own carrying him to the site of Lord D cowering amongst lilies. His crimson robes billowed around him as he raised a hand to try to protect his face. JJ cringed when the delicate wrist snapped under the force of Hamanosuke's grip. JJ sank into the grass in tears as Hamanosuke forced Lord D to his knees.
Lord D noted JJ struggling in his sleep and a worried frown creased his brow. “Jemi-Chan, Jemi-Chan… wake up dearest it is a dream.” Lord D reached out a hand and was gentle as he tried to awaken JJ from his nightmare. “Jemi-Chan…” Lord D called and pressed his body along JJ's hoping the warmth would soothe his nighttime demons.
JJ could not take it anymore. Somehow, someway this had to stop. That monster had to release his love. JJ lashed out and felt a moment of satisfaction as his hand connected. He sat up in bed gasping in a cold sweat the sound of the slap startling him awake. JJ looked around calming his raging heartbeat with several long, deep breathes. He looked beside him to make sure that he had not awakened Lord D and gasped. The bed was empty. “Precious,” JJ called, he heard a groan on the floor and looked over the bed staring in horror. Lord D sat crouched with a hand holding the stinging left side of his face. JJ reached for him and Lord D shrank away in fear. JJ put a hand to his mouth but could not contain his cries of anguish as his heart shattered into a thousand pieces.
Spun Sugar 11
Deliverance
Lady Aurora smiled and pressed a kiss to the chest she was lovingly resting her head against. Sofu D smiled and brought a slim hand up to smooth the love-tangled tresses. Sofu D was just closing his eyes in slumber when the shockwave slammed into him. Lady Aurora fell to the side as Sofu sat up and scowled into the darkness. “My Love?” Aurora asked but frowned when no answer was forthcoming.
Break
Lord D got to his knees and looked at JJ tears falling down his pale cheeks. “Child,” Lord D gasped when his father's voice entered his mind. “He will die, before he draws another breath. What is going on?” JJ wheezed and struggled to get air into his squeezed lungs. Lord D stared in horror at the purple color that tinged JJ's face as his eyes began to roll back Lord D sobbed brokenly. “Explain this to me. I will not have you abused.”
“He did not mean it father! Please release him.” Lord D exclaimed when JJ collapsed back onto the bed and ceased to struggle.
“What do you mean `He didn't mean it'? You have been struck hard across the face, the force of the blow knocked you from your feet.” Sofu's voice resounded loudly in Lord D's brain.
“No… DO not harm him; he was dreaming I attempted to awaken him. The dream was violent, not his intentions towards me. The fault truly is my own for foolishly trying to awaken a seasoned warrior from a violent dream; well has it been documented that…” Lord D paused and sobbed. “Please father, do not harm him.”
“See to him child… He lives.” Sofu's presence left Lord D's mind and he scrambled to his feet rushing to JJ's side. JJ sat on the bed and stared bemused at Lord D. JJ reached a trembling hand for the cup of water that Lord D held out to him.
JJ gulped the water into his scorched throat before he threw his arms around Lord D. “Oh my love, I am so terribly sorry.” JJ muttered into the long silken tresses that clouded his vision. “What have I done to you?” JJ pushed the hair aside staring in horror at the bright red handprint marring the once perfect complexion.
“I am alright,” Lord D gave a half-hearted laugh. “I have had worse believe me.”
Hearing those words JJ sobbed brokenly and held tight to Lord D stroking the unblemished side of his face. “I… I'll go get you an ice pack.” JJ sniffled and launched himself away from the bed stumbling tearfully from the room. Lord D sat on the bed and brought his knees to his chest and sobbed. He had intended to call JJ back, there was no need to leave the room; he could summon an icepack.
Break
Leon stared bemused at D while he paced the kitchen wringing his hands. He opened the refrigerator and closed again with a snap having taken nothing from the contents. “I feel agitated, I want to try adding some calcium, so maybe warm milk will aid in sleeping but then again, making love with you has always worked before. But I am too wound up… I cannot relax enough to enjoy it. I do not like it here, I want to return to our home.” D reiterated his earlier sentiments and Leon was horrified at the tears that glistened in D's jewel-bright eyes. D dropped into a chair and his sudden movement startled Leon. “I feel ill.” D confessed and Leon paled at the slightly greenish tinge to D's face.
“Do you think you might be carrying again?” Leon asked and sat beside D rubbing small circles in his back. “The last time you behaved this erratically that was the reason.” D shook his head and gulped clutching his stomach. “Have you… accidentally… I mean… Could you have eaten meat?” D shook his head again and reached for Leon wrapping his silk clad arms around his neck and climbing into Leon's lap. D grew still and breathed deep after a moment he calmed and his complexion returned to normal.
“I can try to master my body, you most assuredly have.” Leon was puzzled by D's smirk. “Holding on to you, I can use your strength and love to calm my anxieties.”
“Come on Baby, let's go to bed.” Leon stood to his feet still cradling D in his strong arms. D squeezed Leon's neck and leaned his head on his shoulder. Leon rounded the corner and ran into a frantic JJ. “Excuse me.” Leon said and his laugh died at the wide, tearful eyes that met his. “Are you alright?”
“I need an Ice…Icepack for D-Chan.” JJ struggled and sniffled causing his words to be nearly indecipherable.
D gracefully twisted his body and lowered his legs. Leon lowered his arms so that D's feet could touch the floor. D blinked and the lights in the kitchen turned on. “Is something wrong with Father?” JJ did not answer; he reached into the freezer and snatched out the necessary item before he fled down the hall head lowered in shame. D shot a worried look at Leon before he lifted his robe and followed JJ down the hall at a run Leon dashing beside him.
JJ pressed the compress to Lord D's face and sobbed when the door opened and D rushed in to his father's side. “ChiChiUe, are you all right? What is…” D trailed off as the handprint on his father's face became visible in the dim light. D swallowed hard around a gulp and Leon was unprepared for the leap of movement that left JJ on the floor with D crouching over him. Leon would forever curse D's summoning abilities as the dragon hilted blade appeared in his hand and pressed against JJ's quivering throat. “You will not continue in this abuse. I will not allow it.”
Lord D got to his feet and approached his son. Placing a trembling hand on D's shoulder. Lord D leaned down and wrapped his hand around the one holding the blade. “Listen to me child and understand.” Lord D's voice shook almost as badly as his body. One of Lord D's tears fell onto their entwined hands and D tightened his grip on the blade. “I know that I do not have parental restraints on you, and I can not order you not to slay him. But I can ask you not to kill the father of my children.”
“He struck you.” D's soft words caused a sob to issue from JJ.
Lord D raised his hand taking D's hand and the blade with it. “Unintentional.” The single word ripped a sob from D who stood to his feet and glowered at JJ. Lord D got to his knees beside JJ and pulled him to his feet. “Talk to me love, tell me what dreams plague you that you fight every night.” JJ reached for Lord D and Leon pulled D into his arms and carried him from the bedroom despite his protest.
“This is private and between the two of them.” Leon whispered and placed a small kiss on D's temple. “You know now that it was unintentional on JJ's part, now please let's go to bed. I would hate to have to book you for assaulting an officer.” D relented stroking his heaving stomach and laying his head on Leon's shoulder.
“Every night I see it.” JJ confessed and stroked Lord D's flowing hair. “What he did to you. I saw him beat you, break you, and force you…” JJ held tight to Lord D and placed kisses along his brow. “I tried so many times to stop him, but it was all a dream and nothing I did worked. Tonight I felt it, I thought I had him, but it was you. I was trying to protect you and I hurt you instead... I am so sorry. My precious darling. I am so sorry.” JJ whispered and hugged Lord D hoping that this would be the end of the horror that he had witnessed.
Break
Ryo lay in bed on his side and sighed. He looked at the cold pillow beside him and his body gave an involuntary shudder. Ah…Dee! Ryo's heart cried out as his eyes leaked saline regret onto the soft cotton pillowcase. “Oh… Koibito.” Ryo sobbed and clutched the pillow to his chest and thought that he caught traces of Dee's wildly masculine scent. Ryo was still sobbing when sleep took him into its embrace. Bikky shut the door softly and sighed, things were bad indeed if Ryo had not even noticed that he was there. Bikky stormed into the room that Dee was using and found him sprawled on the bed clutching a red silk robe.
Dee was hasty in his attempt to shove the garment underneath a pillow and scowl at Bikky. “What do you want?” He demanded and avoided making eye contact knowing that his blood shot eyes would betray the tears he had shed.
“Nothing form you…” Bikky snarled the words belligerently out of habit. “Well, I mean, could you make it right with Ryo. He is not sleeping. He hardly eats; he cries every night, and well. Men don't cry, you know. He looks bad. Lyo is scared and he misses you and well… I miss you. You have been cooped up in this room and Ryo is going insane.”
“You don't know,” Dee said and held tight to the pillow pulling Ryo's robe and holding it. “He told me to go. He packed my bag and told me to go. So I left. I mean who was I kidding? Me with a family? I mean, yeah, it is what every orphan dreams of, but…” Dee trailed off. “It was doomed to failure, you don't know what I did to him. I hurt him.”
“Say you're sorry.” Bikky urged and raised a hand to wipe a tear embarrassed to be so emotional. “Ryo will understand, he always does. This is my one shot at a family too and I don't want to lose it.” Bikky gazed at the ruined crimson silk clutched in Dee's hands and fled the room in tears. Dee curled over hugging the robe wishing it contained the enigmatic man who set his soul aflame.
Break
Sofu stalked into the room and threw the blinds. He was uncaring of the two in the bed that scrambled to cover their nudity. Count D gasped when his grandfather grasped his wrist and pulled him closer and gazed deep into his eyes. Leon moved to adjust D's robe hiding his slim limbs. Sofu sent a baleful look in Leon's direction. “Child, you feel nauseas, anxious, terrified for no reason.” Sofu's direct words caused Leon to frown. “Sometimes, rare occasions to be sure, I forget just how young you are. Your father is better able to cope, but in so doing he projects to a time when Gardens were pure. This projection affected JJ, bit your father is healthy.”
Are you saying that D is sick?” Leon demanded when Sofu released D and he collapsed onto the bed. “What about you or are you so ancient that it does not matter anymore?”
“There is no need to take such a tone with me.” Sofu said and pushed D onto his back and peeled the robe away revealing his body. With a sigh Sofu pulled the sheet to D's waist and preserved his modesty.
“What do you mean no need?” Leon struggled not to yell. “D has been spacing out, spazing out and vomiting and you barge in here after I get him settled and you tell me that he is sick because he is young. Then you proceed to strip him naked what the heck is wrong with you?”
“Well can I understand your confusion in these matters involving our species.” Sofu gritted out and stepped away from Leon. He looked into a closet and nodded his approval before he closed it and clapped his hands. Leon wanted to question the Kami further but felt a strong gust of wind knock him from his feet. D tried to sit up but felt the same wind holding him in place. “Never doubt that I have the best interest of my family in my mind and impressed upon my heart at all times.” Sofu explained and opened the closet. “Something this child and my son needs, and something this city sorely lacks, something that I have infused the pet shop in Los Angeles with is inside this door.” Sofu wrapped D in the pure linen sheet and carried him to the closet. “Seeing as how my hands are full, would you?” Sofu asked with a smile. Leon wanted to punch him, but he reached for the closet door and turned the knob.
Green infused all of Leon's senses in every way possible. He could smell the verdant life of the plants that swam as far as the eye could see. Vibrant colors invaded his vision and thought that if he inhaled deep enough he could taste the freshness of the plants. Reaching out a hand he touched the rough bark of a tree and was surprised to find that it was real. There really was an oasis in his closet. “What is this?”
“A garden, we Kami need the closeness of life unspoiled by human hands.” Sofu explained and placed his son in the grass and flowers that roamed wild growing wherever they pleased. Small animals ran to his side and petted him as he had often petted them. “Come human, leave him in natures care for a while and he will be as good as new.”
“Why are you not affected?” Leon asked and watched D curl over onto his side and fall asleep. Sofu gave him a small smile and wandered down the hall. Leon glowered at his retreating figure.
Break
Kagetsuya stared at the longhaired young man before him and sighed. “You are hereby ordered, along with Chihaya to return to Eden.” Kagetsuya frowned at the green haired yellow-eyed messenger. “By orders of…”
“I do not care who your orders are coming from. We left Eden years ago and refuse to go back. Who do you think you are putting people on trial? What reason do you have for coming back here? Leave us alone!” Kagetsuya slammed the door before he turned to see Chihaya sitting on the bed with tears running down his face.
Break
“Ummmm…” Jeremy smiled and shifted in the tangled sheets. He could feel warmth beside him and he wrapped his arms and legs around Berkeley's larger frame. “Morning,” Jeremy said against the flesh of his lover. “You know JJ and crew are in town. I had lunch with him a few times and next Friday they are having a ball before they go back…”
Berkeley grinned before he turned around and rolled on top of Jeremy pushing his legs up so that they rested on his shoulders. “I got the invitation, you got the lubricant?” Berkeley asked and grinned when the bottle was pressed into his hands. Jeremy relaxed as Berkeley had taught him and braced himself for a very active morning.
Spun Sugar 12
Deliverance: 2
Chirping birds fluttered overhead causing long lashes to lift slowly greeting the day with a warm smile. Count D sat up and stretched his arms over his head. The sheet that draped his body fell to his lap leaving his pale chest bare to the gentle breeze that flowed through the tall grass. D smiled and stood to his feet leaving the sheet behind standing gloriously nude amongst the trees. He stretched out his arms and butterflies slide a deep maroon robe over him. D reached down and tied the sash about his waist. D looked around and saw two trees standing suspiciously close together. With a smile he headed in that direction.
Leon smelled the garden before he noted the door opening. He looked up and saw D standing in a beam of bright sunlight. With a frown, Leon looked at the window and saw the pale sliver of moon peeking through the dense clouds. The door shut leaving the room in semi darkness and D walked towards Leon with his small smirk that at one point used to drive Leon insane. Ha, Leon thought and sat up opening his arms for D to walk into them, it still did. “Feel better?”
“I will with you inside me.” D gave a coy smile and undid the sash. Standing shameless and beautiful before Leon he dropped the robe. Leon was trembling with anticipation as he rushed to shed his clothes.
D prepared to press his lips to Leon's when his father's voice entered his mind and called to him. “Father?” D said and glanced at the robe. Within moments it was again across his shoulders. Leon whimpered as he tried to pull his pants up over his straining erection. With an apologetic and regretful glance in the general direction of Leon's obvious desire D tied the sash on the robe and left the room. Leon shrugged into his shirt and followed him down the hall. Leon was amazed at the change in D. He had seemed so pale and trembling before. Now his paleness did not resemble the deathly pallor of the ill, but was his normal pearl like complexion.
They reached Lord D and JJ's bedroom and D hesitated a moment before he opened the door. Lord D sat on the bed beside JJ clasping his hands. “I have need of you child.” Lord D said softly still hiding his face behind his hair. Leon peered through the flickering candlelight and held in a gasp at the bruise on Lord D's face. “This is not the kind detective's fault. I do not wish to involve my father in this, his temper is precarious at best, but I am to understand that you use Chi-Gong.” D nodded and Lord D stood and reached for D's hand. “It is my hope that you will learn restraint when causing damage, if you understand the power involved in healing it.”
“I have not caused damage!” D said with a frown taking a moment to wish that he had.
“But you would have. As you have done many times. With your level of skill you are a danger if you do not check your temper. When you care for something, your reasoning is questionable.” Lord D said softly. “I saw what you orchestrated when Detective Orcot lost a child hood friend. The butterfly in the cage, he nearly lost his sanity.”
“I got my point across, he understood…” D began and swallowed convulsively when his father gazed deep into his eyes. “Will I be punished for trying to harm JJ?”
“I do not have the right to administer punishment to you child.” Lord D answered and smiled. “Nor would I punish you for your desire to assure my safety. What I want you to understand is that perhaps thinking before reacting would be a better way to handle situations. In so many ways you are like my father. Humph…” Lord D gave a sad sniffle that tried in vain to be a laugh. “I can not blame you for that, he raised you. You know he was strangling JJ before I even had a chance to explain…” Lord D sighed and a fat tear fell down his alabaster cheek.
“What would you have me do?” Count D asked his folded hands. Leon stared and had a crazy moment of clarity when he realized the robe nearly covered D's dainty fingers.
D gasped when Lord D took hold of his hands and stared deep into his mismatched eyes. “I do not want you to continue to suffer from my fathers bull-headed stubbornness. This is my gift of ages and I gladly impart it unto my son whom I love.” Count D gasped and shivers quaked throughout his body. If he had been dropped naked onto a glacier it would have less of an effect of the pure ice that raced throughout every vein of his being.
“F…F…Father?” D gasped and Leon frowned and took a step forward only to be bombarded by feather light caresses that held him firm with the force of brute strength that shocked him. Lord D lifted D's right hand and placed it on his bruised cheek.
“Find it child, sooth it, cool the burn, heal the flesh, knit the skin.” Lord D coached and D blinked rapidly and tears fell down his face as the room melted away leaving him standing alone with his father in a glade of shallow water. “Do not fear the trance, embrace it.” Lord D said as he felt his son's essence send a tentative, tender caress across his bruised face. Lord D was infused with the scent of wild white cherry blossoms.
D had seen his father work many times, but never had he thought to understand the deep penetration of being one with a patient. When healing wounds he saw into their hearts, into who they were. Lord D Carefully healed and in turn loved them. D saw in his fathers mind, into his past. He saw the love he nurtured for Hamanosuke even through the harshest of abuse. He saw his mother and the loving care Lord D had administered with his gifts and the solace he had offered with his body. D traveled to lands of richness and poverty, abundant cities and forgotten villages. D was becoming lost in depths of happiness and despair when his father took his hand away. D gasped and fell to his bottom on the plush carpeting of the bedroom. His eyes were glowing from within when he looked up at his father.
When the contact was broken the coldness left his body and he trembled in relief at the warmth that surrounded his body. Leon fell forward when he was freed from his soft prison and he took D into his arms. “What the heck just happened?” Leon demanded and gasped. Lord D's face was healed as if a bruise had never been there.
“I can not turn my gifts inward and heal myself.” Lord D confessed with a smile and JJ stared in amazement at Lord D's unblemished skin. “Child, do you understand what I hoped to show you?”
“I see who you are, what you have done, we work as polar opposites though we share blood.” D sobbed and held tightly to Leon's strong frame. “I love you ChiChiUe, truly I do…shikashi ikani sou osoroshiku atsukatta shishi no tame ni aishi te mo minato ii ka.” Lord D gasped and blushed but he looked at JJ and Leon. After reassuring himself that Leon and JJ had not understood his son's impassioned words, Lord D sighed and reached down to squeeze his son's hands. Count D sobbed and tears fell onto their clasped hands.
“watashi ga oshieru koto o nozonda mono o kodomo, rikai suru ka.” Lord D kneeled on the floor next to D.
Count D lowered his head and sighed before he said. “hai chichi, mizu ha arai koori kanyuki utsukushii baai mo aru odayaka de aru baai mo aru. subete no koto de seimei ha araware, tagayasa reru beki de aru.”
Lord D smiled and kissed his son's forehead before he pulled him to his feet. “You may leave, you have my thanks.” Lord D motioned to his face and gave Leon and JJ an enigmatic smile. D dropped to his knees in a full Jol before he rose gracefully and left his father with JJ. Leon stared behind him before he followed Count D from the room
Break
Dee trudged down to his first breakfast in over a week. He sat at the table and wondered why every one else seemed so haggard. Dee inhaled sharply when he saw Ryo. Bikky had been right. The once fastidious detective sat staring morosely into his breakfast. His hair fell in limp waves of honey blond over his brow and into his deep, dark eyes. Dee struggled not to reach out when he saw the dark circles that tainted the reddened orbs. Dee stared longer and held in a sob, Ryo looked so thin. Ryo looked up and saw Dee staring at him and quickly got to his feet and left the Dining hall.
“Does anyone find it odd that the people who own this house are absent?” Leon asked when he looked around at the assembled group.
“Andy called me this morning,” Count D said softly after giving Leon a long smile. “She is making some last arrangements for the ball that is taking place this weekend, they will see at the noon meal.” Leon nodded and went back to his waffles hoping that Ryo would eat something today.
Break
Angel sat on the bed and stared at the suitcase he had packed. Collins frowned and sat beside him holding tight as coughs wracked his small frame. “You can not travel now, it would kill you.” Collins said and gripped Angel's hands. “How do you know this new treatment will even help you?”
“You don't understand what I felt when he touched me. It was like a breath of fresh air. I know that if I go with them, they can help me.” Angel said around a round of fitful hacking and Collins grew worried when he paled and looked as if he would vomit.
“Either way, I will miss you. There is no cure for…” Collins did not finish. Angel pressed a finger to his lips and smiled.
“I will not say goodbye.” Angel said and stood to his feet. He picked up his suitcase and handed Collins an envelope. “It is an invitation. The Vasillisis family is having a ball before their friends leave. I hope to see you all there.” Angel left the apartment and got into the waiting limousine that Sofu D had sent. Collins sat on the bed in tears. “I can't believe he's going.”
Break
Ryo gazed dispassionately at his reflection and adjusted the jacket. With a sigh he gave up. No matter what he did it still looked baggy. He had lost too much weight these past two weeks. There was no help for it. He missed Dee. Bikky looked in on Ryo and smiled his most hopeful smile. “You look great Ryo, have fun tonight ok.” Bikky reached up and straitened Ryo collar.
“Thank you Bikky. “Ryo said and kissed Lyo before heading for the door. “Make sure that Lyo has a dry pull up before he goes to bed. He has one more hour and he should be sleepy.” Bikky nodded and went to the nursery where Lyo was dutifully sucking his thumb. Aoi took one look at him before she tucked a thumb into her mouth. Count D entered the room in a formal teal and gold cheongsam. One look from her Papa and Aoi dropped the hand. Count D smiled and kissed her before they left for the evening. The Honlon blew a puff of smoke to symbolize her eagerness to end the life of any trespasser unwise enough to enter the nursery.
Break
Mimi stood next to Roger in her short black dress and stared around in awe at the many flowing dresses around her. The men all wore expensive tuxedos. Angel walked over to Mark and said, “You ever feel like a bunny in a room full of chinchillas?” Mark looked around at the glittering guests at the elaborate ball and nodded. He had refused to admit that he was awed by the wealth on display. Maureen sent a hopeful smile to Joanne. Sofu D saw Angel standing amongst his friends and he walked over to him. “Please excuse me.” Angel said and left them to talk to his new doctor.
“Whatever…” Collins muttered and glared at the beautiful Asian in the black and red Cheongsam.
“What are you so upset about?” Roger asked as he accepted the glass of champagne.
“The good doctor,” Collins sneered, “has convinced Angel to go with him to California.”
“He decided to go?” Collins turned and blinked several times as a duplicate of the doctor stood before him in a deep green formal cheongsam with a silver border, diamonds sparkled at his ears and neckline. “I am glad. My father can do more for him than I ever dreamed.” Collins eyes traveled from Lord D's dainty feet to his long hair and finally he stared into his deep amethyst eyes. “One day he may be able to aid you as well. Your case is not so urgent as that of your friend.”
“I don't understand.” Collins said he would have asked more but a small bundle of fluffy black hair bumped into him.
“Sumimasen.” Wide purple eyes looked past him and searched the crowd. Finding the blond head he searched for Chihaya rushed to his side. “Kagetsuya, they are here, I saw them. In the crowd. I won't go back, I won't stand trial again, and I will not deny our love again.” Kagetsuya wrapped his lover in his arms and held him tight. “I won't. I love you.”
“I love you too, and I will fight them so that we can stay together. We left the only home we had ever known for a chance at happiness and they can not take it from us.” Kagetsuya said holding tight. Ryo choked on a sob and stumbled away from them. He collided with Andy. Ryo reached to steady her and she gasped and clung to him. Nestoir frowned when he heard his wife break into sobs.
“I can't take it anymore.” She whispered and held tight to Ryo. “Come home my love come home.” Andy gasped and passed out in his arms. Ryo stared down at her and looked helplessly at Nestoir who came to retrieve his wife.
“Sorry she has been a bit erratic lately. Can't help I mean… well.” Nestoir blushed and nodded to the stage where Mr and Mrs. Vasillisis were preparing to address the audience.
“Well First we would like to thank you all for joining us on this special occasion.” Mr Vasillisis said into the microphone. “Before we release the band, generously provided by the Arcadian Royale, we would like to announce that we will be leaving New York and returning to our home indefinitely as it seems my wife is to have another baby and wises to be close to our family. Again thank you and please have a great night.” The family left the stage and the band began to play.
Mimi felt lost among the throngs of people that danced and swirled around her. She felt a steadying hand on her shoulder and prepared to thank Roger but frowned when she saw that it was Benny. “Surprised to see me?” Benny remarked on her expression. “You should not be, or did you not think that my social circles would include such illustrious people as this. Which leads me to question your presence here, or are they offering a strip tease later? Care to dance.” Mimi snatched away from his mocking laughter and headed towards the buffet table where Mark was conversing with a tall blond man.
“Oh, hi Mimi, Roger had to go to the restroom, this is Lord Suzaku,” Mark introduced her to his companion.
Lord Suzaku smiled graciously and his bright red and gold kimono shimmered as he inclined his head. “There is no need to be so formal, please call me Xi, and you are?”
Mimi blushed when the elegantly beautiful man kissed her hand. “I am Mimi, Mimi Marquez.”
Xi squeezed her hands and Mimi gasped when she felt heat encircle her body. “It does you no good.” Xi said and gave a disappointed sigh before he tossed a golden braid of his silken hair over his shoulder and wandered away. He went to Sofu who sat with Angel talking in low tones. “That child has pumped so many impurities into her veins she can barely see strait.” He said harshly. Angel looked up to where he indicating and gasped. Mimi stood trembling from the rush of flames that had briefly licked along her body.
“My friend, one person at a time I beg you.” Sofu gave his small smile and Angel wondered just what was going on.
Break
The band was preparing to play another song when Andy stood at the microphone. Her husband stood besides her holding his guitar and Daphnus and Prince Angel were both at Pianos on either side of the couple. Without a word of explanation Andy began to sing.
“Saigo no kisu wa tabako no flavor ga shita
Nigaku tesetsunai kaori”
“Ashita no imagoro ni wa
Anata wa doko ni irun darou
Dare wo omotterun darou”
“You are always gonna be my love
Itsuka dareka to mata koi ni ochitemo
I'll remember to love you taught me how
You are always gonna be the one
Ima wa mada kanashii love song
Atarashii uta utaeru made”
“Tachi tomaru jikan ga
Ugoki dasouto shiteru
Wasuretakunai kotobakari”
“Ashita no imagoro niwa
Watashi wa kitto naite iru
Anata wo omotterun darou?”
“You will always be inside my heart
Itsumo anata dake no basho ga aru kara
I hope that I have a place in your heart too
Now and forever you are still the one
Ima wa mada kanashii love song
Atarashii uta utaeru made”
“You are always gonna be my love
Itsuka darekato mata koi ni ochitemo
I'll remember to love you taught me how
You are always gonna be the one
Mada kanashii love song
Now and forever (ever)”
Dee did not understand most of the words she had sang, but he felt as if each one pierced his heart. Andy wiped tears from her face and looked out into the audience. “Ryo - Chan” She said and sighed. “ Ha, watashi o yurusu. watashi ha anata no kyoka o yuusuru ka.” Ryo broke into tears and nodded wrapping his arms around his body to quell the trembling. “I will now translate this song, and dedicate it to Dee Laytner from Ryo MacLean.” Andy said and the same melody began to play as Andy began to sing again. Dee rushed to Ryo side and pulled him into his arms. Ryo held tightly to Dee and felt his heart made whole again.
“Once in a while
You are in my mind
I think about the days that we had
And I dream that these would all come back to me
If only you knew every moment in time
Nothing goes on in my heart
Just like your memories
How I want here to be with you
Once more”
“You are always gonna be the one
And you should know
How I wish I could have never let you go
Come into my life again
Oh, don't say no”
Dee pressed his lips to Ryo's and lifted him from his feet in a tight embrace that left the smaller man breathless. Dee wanted to shout and laugh for joy but could do nothing but hold on to Ryo and kiss him.
“You are always gonna be the one in my life
So true, I believe I can never find
Somebody like you
My first love”
Leon looked over at his friends making a spectacle and pulled D into his arms. “Isn't it great?” He asked and buried his face in the groove of D's neck. D said nothing he smiled and turned his face to accept Leon's kiss.
“Once in awhile
Your are in my dreams
I can feel the warmth of your embrace
And I pray that it will all come back to me
If only you knew every moment in time
Nothing goes on in my heart
Just like your memories
And how I want here to be with you
Once more
Yeah yeah yeah”
“You will always be inside my heart
And you should know
How I wish I could have never let you go
Come into my life again
Please don't say no
Now and forever you are still the one
In my heart
So true, I believe I could never find
Somebody like you
My first love
oh oh”
“You are always gonna be the one
And you should know
How I wish I could have never let you go
Come into my life again
Oh, don't say no”
“I love you.” Dee said and Ryo was shocked to feel wetness trickle down his neck. He looked down at Dee and placed a kiss on his forehead and wiped the tears from his face.
“Koibito, Aishiteru Zutto. watashi no chuushin de aru.” Ryo laughed through his tears at Dee's confused look. “I love you Dee, you are my heart.” He said and looked at the stage as Andy finished the song that had been in his heart for the past week. “Come home.” Ryo whispered when his feet touched the floor as Dee sat him down. “Come home now. I love you I miss you I want you I need you.”
“You are always gonna be the one
So true, I believe I could never find
Now and forever”
Andy gave a bright smile to the audience as she watched her friends reconcile before she left the stage she bumped into Count D. “You're really having another baby.” He said looking at the brightness in her eyes. Andy giggled and nodded happily before she melted into the large crowd.
Break
Dee was not embarrassed at all to take Ryo hands and pull him up to their bedroom. Dee looked back and saw the loving look that Ryo gave him and knew that it was okay. Ryo wanted him badly as well. No sooner than the door shut leaving them in solitude that their lips sealed. “You've gotten so thin.” Dee remarked as he peeled Ryo's clothes from his body.
“So have you.” Ryo said and undid the buttons on his pants. “Let's never do this again. I can't live without you.” Dee smiled and nodded before he pressed Ryo back onto the bed. “Make love to me Koi,” Ryo said softly and Dee was lost in the seas of sensual-ness that reflected from Ryo's dark eyes. Dee pressed a gentle kiss to Ryo's lips and moved down to his pale, arching neck. Ryo sighed and lay limp against the pillows offering his body to Dee's hands and mouth.
Dee's hands rediscovered Ryo's nipples, pinching them into hardness before his mouth claimed them and soothed the hurt only to inflame them again with bites. “Oh.” Ryo cried out as Dee's tongue slide across drawing the small nub into his mouth. Ryo pushed Dee's shirt aside and began to stroke his shoulder blades and the strong muscles in his back. He lay on the bed needing to submit, needing to be taken by this man he loved. Ryo blushed and looked away in embarrassment, but his nature demanded that he spread his legs.
Looking down at the excruciatingly beautiful body before him Dee licked his lips and slide down until he was facing Ryo's exciting member. Dee placed a few kisses along Ryo's inner thighs eliciting tiny, kittenish sounds from his lover before he kissed the tip stealing the pearl drop of pre-cum that rested there. Ryo cried out loudly when Dee took him in whole in one long gulp. Dee sucked relentless in his quest to bring Ryo pleasure. He was soon rewarded for his efforts as Ryo's hips bucked and he flooded Dee's mouth with his release.
Dee took the cream into his mouth and swallowed before he lubed his fingers and began a careful investigation of Ryo's tight opening. “Please baby, let me in.” Dee whispered and placed a kiss at the entrance. Ryo relaxed his body and trembled when Dee's tongue slipped inside of him. As Ryo thrashed on the bed in bliss Dee probed with one, then two fingers loosening Ryo with gentleness. Ryo panted and raised his hips and invitation that Dee could not refuse. He climbed over Ryo and pulled the strong legs around his hips as he pressed himself against the body he had missed so badly. Ryo gasped and cried out. Dee waited as the initial discomfort of his penetration settled and Ryo relaxed against the bed as pleasure swamped him. “I love you.” Dee whispered and pressed a kiss to Ryo's lips as he began to move.
“Ah… I love you…” Ryo managed to get out as Dee rocked him gently. “Shiite… My heart, take me. Oh take me.” Ryo sighed and bit Dee's neck leaving a mark that he sucked and licked. “Take me.” He begged and Dee did just that.
I feel that some translation is needed here. Earlier there was a conversation between Lord and Count D. Now I must inform you that their native tongue is Mandarin. I do not speak Mandarin, so the conversation is in Japanese a language that I do speak. (I took Artistic License) Okay, the conversation starts when D says to his father, “How can you harbor love for a man who treated you so horribly?” Lord D answers saying “Child, do you understand what I was trying to show you?” Count D then says “Yes Father (Without the honorific Ueat the end). Water can be gentle, Ice can be harsh, and snow can be soft. In all things life emerges and must be preserved.” That is as close of a translation that I can manage.
Chapter 13
The Dragon Within
Berkeley stared around at the assembled crowd and blew a soft whistle. Jeremy stood beside and Berkeley had a moment to appreciate how small the reporter was. Jeremy had his infernal note pad out as he interviewed the famous and took pictures. He saw the Princess walk to the stage and begin a foreign song. Berkeley's eyes searched for and found Ryo. He gasped when he saw the teary eyes and slim figure. “He doesn't look too good. That bastard Dee hasn't been taking care of him.” Jeremy gasped and raised tear filled eyes to look at Berkeley. Never would he forget that Ryo was his first choice.
Jeremy was lost in grief as he watched Berkeley stare at his first love. If he admitted it, he had to admit that Ryo was beautiful. Even when he was frail and heartbroken Ryo was beautiful. What about these past few months? Jeremy wondered as he saw Berkeley stare at Ryo. What about all he had learned about pleasing Berkeley? What about his profession of love? He was no beautiful half Japanese detective but he did love Berkeley. That had to count for something. “Ah lovely,” Berkeley muttered unaware that Jeremy could hear him. “You should have come to me a long time ago. I'm happy now with my `Little Bit'.” Jeremy blushed when he heard the pet name that Berkeley had begun calling him. Jeremy, without a word flung himself into Berkeley and kissed him soundly.
“Where'd you come from?” Berkeley asked as Andy began to sing the song in English and Dee jumped Ryo in the middle of the ballroom.
“I love you.” Jeremy whispered and wrapped his arms securely around Berkeley and sniffled. Berkeley grinned and kissed Jeremy before he pointed out JJ. “Yeah, I'd better go, looks like they are.” Jeremy said as Dee began to pull Ryo from the ballroom. Berkeley laughed and watched as Jeremy rushed off to greet his cousin.
JJ saw Jeremy and smiled waving him over. “Hey, how's it going?” JJ asked and raised his glass in greeting.
“Pretty good, how's the family?” Jeremy asked looking at Lord D converse with a small Hispanic man.
“The boys are beautiful, but how could they not be?” JJ said looking at Lord D. If Jeremy were not madly in love himself, he would have been embarrassed by the unabashed emotions his cousin was displaying. JJ opened his mouth to speak but was nearly knocked from his feet as a tall green haired man stormed forward holding tight to a fluffy haired captive.
“K…Kagetsuya!” The young man yelled as he was dragged through the crowd. An enraged blond came storming after them. Chihaya was wrenched to his feet by the angry angel. “I will not go back. I will not deny what we shared. I loved him then and I love him now. We did make love, there was penetration.” Chihaya yelled and wiggled trying to free himself. “Put that in your files and screw yourself!” The Angel stared down at the fury in Chihaya's eyes in shock. Never had he thought to hear the sweet, positive angel speak in such a way. While the Angel was dumbfounded Kagetsuya reached forward and snatched Chihaya into his arms.
“Leave here Linus,” Kagetsuya ordered and stroked the bruise growing on Chihaya's wrist where Linus had held him.
Linus sighed and raked his hands through his already tousled hair. “Our species is closer to extinction than ever.” Linus expelled a deep breath uncaring of the audience they were gaining. “There is a plague among the males where we are attracted to our own gender no children are being born. You have an obligation to return there and procreate.”
“We cut ties a long time ago.” Kagetsuya shook his head and backed away. “You can not expect us to hold loyalties to a place that threw us in prison for falling in love.” Kagetsuya turned his back on Linus and waited for the tension to leave his body. It was a sure sign that the angry angel had left. He breathed a sigh of relief and was determined to enjoy the rest of the party.
Angel wiped tears from his eyes as he said goodbye to his `family'. In such a short amount of time they had become so close. Mimi kissed his cheek and held him tightly. He was passed around to each person in turn. Angel tried not to cry as Collins frowned before he turned and walked away. “Goodbye love.” Angel whispered and sniffled before he sat and waited for the party to end.
Break
Dee was exhausted; Leon smirked and gave him a knowing look. He and Ryo never made it back to the ball. Ryo stretched and moved his hips in the way he always did when he was pleasantly sore. Dee winked at Ryo and he gave his typical blush. The suitcases were placed onto the turnstile. Bikky looked between them and grinned. He had his family back and he was going home. They had missed the deadline for camp and school started in two days, but Bikky was happy. He took Lyo's hand and walked him towards the restroom. “What are you doing?” Ryo asked when he reached out to open the door.
“Nestoir suggested it.” Bikky answered. “He said it was how he got Little Nicklaus to go potty. He wanted to suggest it to you bit he was afraid you would balk at the idea because, well, the public would see a... Well… I mean taking a small boy into the…” Bikky's dark color deepened and he looked away from Ryo. “It pissed me off man, I know you wouldn't but… I… he said... I mean, he was right but…He can follow me in the potty,” Bikky scowled at the childish word. “And he will learn what it is for.” Bikky shoved the door hard and pulled Lyo in behind him. Ryo stood and choked back tears hating to admit that the kid and thus Nestoir were right.
Ryo needed Dee just then. Whenever he felt like this, he needed to reconnect with his love, to understand the choice he had made in loving this man. Ryo gasped when he saw a small man leaning with his hand on Dee's arm. The man was obviously flirting. “Does it bother you?” Ryo looked down and saw Angel leaning against the railing. It shouldn't, that man loves you. More than I would ever know.” Angel looked around the airport and choked back a sob. Ryo placed a hand on his shoulder and prepared to offer a consoling word when he heard Angel gasp. “Collins!”
“You thought I'd let you go without at least saying I love you?” Collins said and pulled his love close. “I know I have no right to ask you to stay, not when this could help you get better. I love you, okay and…” Collins paused with a small tearful smile. “With a thousand sweet kisses,” He sang softly and kissed the hands he had captured and brought to his lips. “I'll cover you.”
“With a thousand sweet kisses,” Angel said and turned his face up so that Collins could kiss him. “I'll cover you.”
“I'm not going to say goodbye.” Collins vowed and pressed his lips hard to Angels before he turned and walked away. Angel stood and sobbed looking after Collins as he stalked away from the airport. Angel watched his bag as it was carried away and wondered where his doctor was.
Ryo stood near enough to hear without either of them knowing he could hear. He had always had great senses. It was part of what made him a good detective. Ryo tensed when he caught part of the conversation. “You're a native New Yorker right? Going on a vacation?” Ryo scowled when he heard the deliberate sexy tone the young man used.
Dee smiled and hid a chuckle. “Yeah I'm a native here, but I am going home. I moved to L.A. a while ago.”
“Ummm, I might consider a transfer if you'll be there sexy.” The man flipped his dark brown hair over his shoulder and winked at Dee.
Dee laughed and shook his head. “Ah man, that's a good one, but uh… You see that walking wet dream over there?” Dee pointed at Ryo who tried to hide the fact that he had been listening. “Nothing on the world is more important to me than making him happy.”
The young attendant grinned and turned to look at Ryo. He took a moment to appreciate the slenderness that belied the strength that Dee had become so familiar with. “He is beautiful,” The attendant sighed as he looked at Ryo. Ryo tried not to blush as the man continued to stare at him before he walked away and went to see to the new comers. Leon placed a protective hand on D's hip at the wolfish ogling the young man was doing. With a sigh the attendant frowned when he wondered what kind of small creatures fluttered around the Asian women.
“Count D!” Lyo squealed when he left the bathroom. He waved and ran for Ryo. “Da-Ryo… I go potty like Biggy.” He announced proudly. Ryo grinned and hugged the small child close.
“I am so proud of you.” Ryo said and placed a kiss on Lyo's head. Lyo smiled broadly at the apparent pride and hugged Ryo tightly. Leon looked over and grinned as the announcer called their flight. Angel was in tears as he boarded the plane that would take him away from all he had ever known. Chihaya clung to Kagetsuya and looked around. Making sure there were no Angels about he boarded the plane holding tight to Kagetsuya. Linus stood in hiding behind a crowd of people and watched as the traitorous deserters boarded the large machine. This, he thought with a grim smile of determination, was far from over.
Break
Count D opened the shop door and sighed in relief. How he had longed to return to his home. He found Jill sitting on the lounge in the parlor. On the table in front of her was a vase of fresh flowers. “Welcome home. Leon called and asked me to look after the place and feed the few creatures in the cages.” She explained her presence. “He said you would all be here this morning and I just thought to welcome you back so uh…” Jill trailed off as Angel stepped into the shop staring around in wonder.
“I see animals, but I don't smell them, I mean I smell…” Angel paused, as he could not make out the strange scent.
“Incense.” Leon filled in as he took a sleeping Aoi from D once he had sat their luggage down. Angel had stood silently aside as Kagetsuya, Chihaya, Ryo, Dee and their children had all separated at the airport to head to their own homes. Angel looked at JJ and Lord D, then back to Count D wondering where his new doctor had disappeared? “I'll show you a room after I get Aoi settled.”
“I can show him Detective, I am more familiar with the parameters of this domicile.” Count D said giving Leon one of his small smirks and Leon vowed to kiss that smirk to oblivion. Count D hid a genuine smile behind a delicate hand as Lord D inclined his head before he gathered his children and he and JJ prepared to return to their own home.
“The next time we meet, dear Angel,” Lord D said causing Angel to wonder why Lord D still refused to touch him. “May I find you in better health.” Angel nodded and smiled. He said his farewells and tried to quell the tremors in his body. This was a strange place he found himself in. He followed the enigmatic Count down a hallway that seemed to long to fit into the small pet shop. Holding his tongue he tried not to gasp at the luxurious room he was shown to.
“Grandfather will be with you tomorrow.” Count D said causing a frown to come over Angel's face. He had a hard enough time seeing Lord D as Sofu's son, now this young ma was claiming that the beautiful doctor was old enough to have a grandchild. He had always heard that Asian's aged well, but this was ridiculous. Before Angel could question him Count D placed a gentle hand to his lips to forestall him. “We have all had a long journey. Explanations would best be saved for another time.” Count D inclined his head politely and left Angel alone to settle into his room. Count D heard the suitcase fall from nerveless fingers and he hid a smile as he wandered down the hall that was remarkably shorter than it had been moments before.
Break (Two Days Later)
Ryo sat at his kitchen table and stared at Daphnus as if he had grown three heads and spitting fire. It was the only comparison he could make to what certainly sounded like inane gibberish coming from the High Princes mouth. The man stood flanked by his royal Princes and an honor guard. The only prince absent from this little gathering was Nestoir. “Let me get this strait,” Dee said as he sat beside Dee who had been folding clothes in preparation for Bikky's return to school. Ryo had been nervous about Bikky starting High School. He was the only one. Bikky was confident and Dee was more worried about the rest of the school. “You want us,” He pointed at Ryo then himself. “To drink this little silver vial of tears thus slowing down our aging process which will eventually stop leaving us in a fit position.”
Daphnus nodded and a red haired prince rolled his eyes heaven ward as the high prince began his explanation again. “You are both in the prime of your physical abilities. If you were halted now, you would be perfect protectors of royal family. By serving this auspicious duty you would ensure your place among the Arcadian generals. You have already served in our army and I would have you continue those posts in the wars to come.
“We have children to think of,” Ryo said and doggedly continued to fold the clothes after he had ironed them all by hand. Dee smirked and hoped Bikky knew just how much Ryo cared for him. Looking into Bikky's room and watching him reading softly to Lyo to keep him occupied while Ryo and Dee were busy with the royalty, Dee had an answer to his question and he smiled.
“The positions do come with benefits, you would retain your American citizenship, but you would also be granted titles in the Arcadian courts with all the privileges such entails.” Kronos said sweeping his blond hair aside. He hoped to speak before Daphnus could. His speeches would likely leave them all comatose. Prince Angel stood by the door ready to bolt if any of the men in the room looked like they wanted to speak to him. How such a man had become a warrior would forever puzzle Dee.
“Titles?” Dee raised his brows.
“Seeing that you are human, you would be granted the title of Viscount.” Daphnus said trying to keep his sentences short.
“Count D is a title, not a name, so what is his true name?” Dee asked causing Ryo to frown at his complete change of subject.
“In truth, only his Grandfather is privy to that knowledge.” Kronos said for Daphnus had paused as if her were wondering the same thing.
“You mean him and his grandfather?” Dee said with a frown.
“No… I mean his grandfather. Count D is unaware of his own name. In that knowledge comes great power. Lord D is similarly ignorant. It is done purposefully, I do not understand his reasoning.” Kronos said and tried not to think of the odd Kami and the reasons behind his actions.
“Is this safe?” Ryo asked as he folded the last pair of pants and started on the shirts. He looked into the silver vial at the silver liquid that swirled around even though there was no motion that could have caused the movement.
“Of course,” Kronos answered before Daphnus could open his mouth. Lady Chimera would be proud he thought fondly of his fiancé. Dee stared as Kronos materialized a blade and cut into his hand. Dee and Ryo gasped as ruby drops of blood fell pebbled before intermingling with silver. As they watched the wound seal itself and Kronos tucked the dagger into places unknown. Kronos edged the vial closer to Ryo. Ryo sighed and looked at Dee who held his own vial. They had been in this for far too long. They had known. They had seen too much. With a small nod to each other they tipped the vials back and drained them.
Dee shivered and blinked. His eyes glowed silver before fading. He felt ice, then fire flow through his veins. Dee's blood settled and he looked over at Ryo and stared in horror. Ryo gasped and the silver in his eyes blazed before he flushed red and sweat damped his brow. Ryo coughed and smoke billowed from his mouth before he passed out on the table. “I thought you said this was safe.” Dee demanded and rushed to Ryo's side. He felt a surge of power as his muscles bulged and released pent up energy. He reached for Ryo but stood still as Ryo sat up and shook his head. He brought a hand to his brow and shivered.
“Whoa!” He breathed and stood shakily to his feet. He took a moment to steady himself and received a frown from the silent Angel prince. He lifted his orb and threw it at Ryo who ducked bringing a hand up to protect his face. Dee swore as flames shot from his fingers and the orb burst into flames before shattering.
“Can I do that?” Dee asked looking at the smoldering shards of crystal. Daphnus said nothing but he shook his head as he stared at the destroyed orb.
“Sorry,” Ryo muttered as he looked at the orb.
Angel said nothing; he opened his hand and showed Ryo an intact orb. “Don't ask, it's freaky the way he works that thing.” Kronos said and watched Angel toss the Orb. It spun around before it flashed brightly. Bikky stood in the doorway worried at the smell of smoke that had wafted into his bedroom. He watched as the flames died down before he looked at the orb that released incandescent light into the kitchen. The light dimmed and Dee stared, as Lord Suzaku stood in the kitchen resplendent in a crimson kimono.
The phoenix smiled politely at the royals present. “You called?”
“Is he of Phoenix caste?” Kronos asked indicating Ryo. Bikky's eyes widened as he looked at the man who had become his father.
“He is not of my blood, I would have sensed it the moment we met, human though he is.” Xi said with a flippant air. “Though flames do grace his soul.”
F…Flames?” Ryo stammered and blinked as his skin heated almost unbearably before it cooled.
“You mother child, what was her name?” Xi asked and smiled gently.
Ryo blushed and grinned. “It is kind of long ha!” Ryo smiled at the fond memories of his mother that the question evoked. “Dad said he called her Hon because he could not pronounce her real name. It was…”
“Honoo de odoru tame.” Xi said finishing the words for Ryo. Ryo gasped as the man spoke his mother's name. “I have to call King Laton, it appears the offspring of his long lost Daughter Princess of the dragons has been found.” Ryo stared in horror as Xi vanished in a puff of flames and smoke.
Break
Angel wandered the halls of the pet shop and wondered what was going on. He had been here for two days already and still he had not seen his doctor. He was about to find Count D and ask, when the he rounded a corner and Sofu stood there smiling at him. “I was wondering when you would get her. I have been waiting for a full fifteen minutes.” Sofu smiled gently at Angel. “Come, walk with me, there is a lot that must be explained before I can get to work.” Angel stared at Sofu before he began to walk beside him. “Fist let me take you to the most wonderful Garden…”
Spun Sugar 14
Unleashed
Ryo had never been more terrified in his entire life. He could endure bullets flying, bombs exploding, flying Pegasus, and even acid-drooling demons… but this? The royals had left after advising them to go on with their lives as if nothing untoward had occurred. Flames? In his soul? Ryo blinked and looked at Dee hoping for some form of reassurance. Dee sat at the kitchen table dumbfounded. Bikky stood in the doorway and stared between his two dads before he went to his bedroom to check on Lyo. Bikky smiled when he saw the toddler asleep on his bed. Bikky was careful not to wake him as he lifted him to carry him back to his own room. Lyo was safer sleeping in his toddler bed with the safety rails. . After laying Lyo on his bed Bikky crept back into the kitchen and saw Ryo and Dee still sitting in shocked silence.
Dee took a deep breath before he began to speak. “If your mother was a princess…” Dee gasped when Ryo cut him off.
“Please, I would rather not think about it right now.” Ryo took a deep breathe and stared at the table strewn with clothing. “Right now I have fifteen more shirts to press and fold. I have underwear and socks to sort and new shoes to lace.” Ryo said with a determined glint in his dark eyes.
“Baby.”
“Dee…Please.” Ryo said and lifted his tea to his lips before taking a sip. He frowned when he tasted the now cold brew. As he held up the cup it began to boil and Ryo dropped it standing hastily to his feet dropping the cup and knocking the chair over. Dee walked over and attempted to put his arms around Ryo but he backed away with his hands up. Ryo looked at his hands before he paled and shoved them into his pockets afraid of burning his lover with his new as yet uncontrolled abilities. Ryo shivered before he wrenched his hands free of his pants and wrapped his arms around himself. Dee tensed when he heard the quiver in Ryo's voice. “I just found out that I am not human…” Ryo paused and Dee sighed when he saw the bright sheen gloss over the dark eyes he loved so much.
“You are human Koi,” Dee said knowing his bad accent would cheer Ryo. It always made Ryo laugh when Dee tried to speak Japanese and mangled it. Ryo's lips twitched and Dee tried harder. If this is what it took to keep tears from falling, well paint his face and call him a clown. “Aiiishiiiteruuuu.” He said and Ryo did laugh then his eyes shining and laughter bubbling through despite the tears that fell down his cheeks. Dee smiled before he went to the sink and grabbed one of the towels there and began to clean up the spilled tea. “Dragon, human, whatever you are… I love you.” Dee professed before he approached Ryo. Placing his hands on Ryo's hips he pulled him forward and waited. In typical reaction to the proximity, Ryo laid his head on Dee's shoulder and hugged him tight. “Don't worry about it. We'll get through this just like we get through everything else… Together.”
Ryo placed a small kiss on the base of Dee's throat and he felt it from the top of his head all the way to his toes. Dee lowered his head and pressed a soft kiss to his lover's lips. “Thank you Dee. I am sorry Ha1 I am not usually so scatterbrained.”
“Hey, if I just found out that I'm half dragon and royal to boot…”
Ryo gave Dee a chagrined look before he went back to aligning Bikky's school clothes. Ryo held up the steaming iron and grinned. “Royalty? Does this look like royalty to you?” Ryo laughed and resumed his task felling much better than he had a few moments ago, but then again, Dee did that to him.
Break
Angel stared around in wonder. Never had he thought that such a garden could exist. Not only did the marvelous overdose of the senses exist, but also it existed in side a tiny pet shop in China town in Los Angeles. “Come,” Sofu commanded and urged him to sit in a field of soft grass that was surrounded on all sides by flowers and a small pond. Angel sat trying to emulate the grace of the doctor and failing with a soft laugh. His laughter died as a cough wracked his thin frame. Angel sighed and felt tears threaten, laughter was almost beyond him nowadays. Sofu placed a calming hand on Angel and gave what would be termed a generous smile for a Kami. It barely lifted his lips but his eyes betrayed the compassion in his heart. Compassion he himself had not felt until he had gotten to know his patient. It was more of a smile than most humans had ever seen from the ancient being.
“Before I begin to treat you, I want your promise that what happens in this sanctuary remains here. I do not just mean this garden but this entire pet shop. It is the only place, aside from the consulate, where many can assume their true shapes comfortably.”
“True shapes?” Angel asked and looked around the garden at the small critters that ran around. He gasped when he spotted a large-eyed doe standing nearby munching grass. As he watched the form of the gentle creature blurred and shifted. Angel brought up trembling hands to rub his doubting eyes but Sofu restrained him. As Angel watched the form shifted legs elongating. Before long a nubile young woman stood draped in a silky sheath the color of her erstwhile coat. She shook her curling, sable hair and pranced to Sofu's side. Angel scrambled to his feet staring wide-eyes.
“There is no reason to fear anything here. “Sofu said and Angel felt his heartbeat slow, as through no effort of his own. Sofu smiled again and the young woman draped her lithe form across the Kami's lap making a contented humming sound as Sofu stroked her hair. Sofu gave her a generous pat down before patting her rump to send her on her way. The young woman got to her feet and shifted back to her animal form. Nipping the cropped locks of Sofu's hair she trotted off and disappeared behind a strand of trees. “I am a Kami.” Sofu informed Angel in a blunt statement of fact that he knew, from Angel's slack jawed confusion, that he would have to explain.
“Kami?” Angel asked confirming Sofu's thoughts.
“I am an ancient `deity', you could say, of Chinese descent. What I intend to do to you is to go inside your body and defeat this virus on its own terms. It will effectively be a war of wills. Mine versus its. While you are in treatment you will refrain from inhaling any and all impurities into your body. Alcohol, drugs, and plants for an unhealthy recreational activity will not continue while you are in my care. If you should so wish to destroy your body after we are done you are more than welcome to do so.”
“You almost sound displeased to be treating me.” Angel said preparing to refuse the treatment. It sounded too unbelievable. A Kami, Deity, whatever… Wars in his body! It was all too much for him to bear.
“I realize this must be a shock to you. Most humans have a difficult time assimilating such fantastic themes but I assure you that I have spoken nothing but the truth. Never think that I am not acting upon my own wishes.” Sofu gave a small smirk that Angel found suspect. “Although it is true that the main reason that I undertook this task was to appease my son for he has taken a fancy to you. Not in the romantic sense.” Sofu was quick to add at Angel's alarmed look. “ But still he likes you and wanted to care for you himself. He is a skilled physician; after all he is my offspring. Anything he does, he will do it well.” Sofu heaved a long sigh as he thought of his headstrong child. “But he is yet not of an age to handle what ails you. I trust he never will be.” Sofu stood to his feet in a graceful unfolding of supple muscles and fine satin. “Moonrise tomorrow I will begin your treatment, If you truly agree to the terms you will find your way here. I will be waiting.” Sofu left Angel alone in his garden and wandered off to find his wife. It was best if he found. He had better alert her to the new human in the shop and let her know that she could not eat it.
Break
Count D stared at the envelope on his bed and wondered whom it was from. It was waiting for them in a pile of mail that sat on his counter. Leon sauntered into their bedroom holding Aoi bouncing happily on his shoulders. “Is it fan mail?” Leon asked and Count D held the missive in shaking hands. It is addressed to grandmother. It calls her Hermione… again.” Count D said and sighed before he began to wonder where the Lady Aurora was tonight. He hated to think of her out in the deep shadows of night hunting prey among the human population. He knew that without such she would not last long, but it still caused a cold shiver to sneak up his spine.
“Hey, both of your grandparents are far older than either of us could ever imagine.” Leon said correctly interpreting the shiver. D raised a slim hand and smoothed his sleek hair so like his grandfathers, if a few inches longer. “ I am sure they can handle whatever comes their way. Come here.” Leon said and D walked over to his family. “Chris is already in bed, you know he has school tomorrow. Lets put Jewel to bed and I can show you just how much I appreciate you.” D grinned and dropped the mail. Worries forgotten as he slid his arm around Leon and followed to sing his daughter to sleep.
Break
Kagetsuya scowled into the darkness outside his window and watched the clouds sail over the moon. Chihaya had sobbed the entire night through. Kagetsuya had not even managed to distract him with lovemaking. That was definitely a sure sign that something was bothering his gentle lover. Kagetsuya knew exactly what the problem was. Eden. He thought with a deeper scowl when Chihaya whimpered and rolled over in his sleep. Kagetsuya gripped the edge of the fine curtain and swore when he heard it rip. Kagetsuya released it with an angry scowl he shoved into his jacket and went for a walk.
As the sand crunched underneath his feet Kagetsuya listened the waves crash and break upon the shore. He looked back to their house and thought of how much Chihaya loved the beach house. Their home. Chihaya was a sensitive creature. Sensual at times, more recent than not, but beautiful in ways those morons on Eden would never even think of. Kagetsuya tossed a stone and watched it sink among the rolling, white-capped waves. In the dark of night the water look black the white foam a startling contrast to the starry sky. He felt his heart beat to the same tempestuous crashing as the waves. “I will not give him u p. I will not relinquish our love.” Kagetsuya said without turning around to see the tall form of Linus.
“You are helping your own race towards extinction. Is that what you want?” Linus said and sat beside Kagetsuya. Linus looked at the lovely beach house the two rogue angels shared and frowned.
“Why don't you procreate for the race?” Kagetsuya asked and slide a sideways glance at the emissary of Eden.
“All who are loyal to the cause have been trying for many years. Still no children are being born.” Linus heaved a sigh.
“You want to know what Michael was working on before he died? What was on the disk that Elvira had?” Kagetsuya smiled at Linus look of fear.
“Such is forbidden, you know that.” Linus got to his feet in a hasty attempt to get away from the forbidden information.
“You are all looking to yourselves for the answers you seek. Perhaps…” Kagetsuya stopped speaking when Linus backed away. Eden had trained these pretty youths well. He got to his feet and looked at the terrified angel. “Fear of the truth will be your downfall.” Kagetsuya promised and got to his feet as Linus ran down the beach leaving not a single footprint in the shifting sands to mark his passing. “So too will go Eden.” Kagetsuya said with a sad sigh for the home he would never see again. Thinking of Chihaya asleep in his their bed, he was not sure he ever wanted to.
Break
Ryo walked into his apartment and stared at the parchment with a royal decree as if it were his worst enemy. He had just dropped Bikky off at school and returned home to find it waiting. “I do not have time for this.” Ryo said and scowled as he read the letter demanding his presence at the Arcadian court. “Dee,” Ryo called and walked into their bedroom to find Dee still sprawled across their bed with his nose pressed against Ryo's pillow. “You have to get up.”
“We don't have to work until tomorrow.” Came the pillow muffled reply as Dee sank further into the mattress.
“Yes, but I am not venturing into the consulate without you.” Ryo said and sat on the bed draping his body over Dee's. The summons forgotten as soon as Dee reached up and pulled him in for a kiss. Ryo was warming into Dee's embrace when the telephone rang. “Fifty bucks says that is someone from the consulate demanding that I get to the consulate.” Dee scowled at the telephone as it continued to ring. He found it odd that it rang a fourth time; usually their answering machine picked up on the third one. Ryo picked up the phone as it went on to the fifth ring. “Laytner and MacLean residence.” Ryo said cheerfully into the receiver. With a sigh he gave Dee a grin and began to speak again. “Yes your Majesty I have indeed received your invitation. It is an honor to receive a call from someone as illustrious as you.” Zarro's laughter at Ryo's attempts to be diplomatic could be heard through the device.
“I take it,” Zarro's good-natured grumbling rumbled through and Ryo winced before taking his ear from the earpiece. “These blasted human contraptions have never sat well with me. I do believe you know the nature of your summons child. King Laton is anxious to meet the offspring of his daughter. He has waited centuries for this moment. Do not make him wait longer than is necessary. With a clipped farewell from Zarro, the line went dead.
Dee took the pillow he had been buried his head under and smacked it lightly over Ryo's head. Laughing Ryo said; “you owe me fifty bucks.”
Break
Ryo felt as if Pomp and Circumstance should be playing as he marched down the great throne room of the grand Arcadian palace. Lyo clutched his hand and Ryo smiled down at the small boy. It was a marvel that there were any jewels left in this realm, as there were so many glittering in decoration on the throne of the king. Ryo frowned as he stared at the throne. He had never actually seen Zarro sit in the great chair. He always preferred the absurdly large chaise. Not absurdly large, Ryo amended when he thought of Zarro's true shape. Ryo realized that his mind was wandering from nervousness when he began to fret about the condition of Bikky's shirt when he had left for school this morning. Ryo had straightened the shirt three times three times by the time they had pulled up to the school, Bikky complaining the whole time that he drove like a blind old woman, the shirt was askew again. Ryo had simply smiled and sent his son off to his first day of high school.
Dee stared at Ryo unconcerned with the lavish surroundings worried instead for what Ryo's new status would do to their family. If his grandfather was a king and his mother was a princess… Didn't that make him royalty? Dee frowned and looked up from the floor. The red lightning shot through the tan marble floor was making him dizzy. Dee bumped into Ryo as he had stopped abruptly. Hearty laughter greeted them and Zarro strode forward in his traditional white garb and bare feet. “Welcome, welcome, welcome to my home. It is a pleasure to see you all again. All is well I trust?” Lyo took one look at the stranger and screamed at the top of his lungs clinging to Ryo's pant leg. “We have child care available, if he is terrified of me, Laton would curdle his blood.” Zarro smiled and Lyo screamed again. Ryo grew worried and picked the boy into his arms trying to sooth him. “That will not work you know. He can see my true form despite my attempts to appear human to him. Children are remarkably adept at seeing the truth of all things.” Ryo nodded and handed Lyo to Dee.
Ryo stepped forward with the King and took a deep breath at the tall, lean man with pale skin and inky black hair that sat on a grandly appointed chair. He wore a silver coronet among his long locks and bright, black eyes pierced him from across the room. Chiseled features were highlighted by the smoothness of youth. He appeared fierce in his thoughtful pose on the chair. The man stood and Ryo gasped when he saw the height that dominated the warrior guards that stood around the room as protection to the King, his royal family and their nobles and court officials. The man took a step forward and King Zarro presented him with a grand smile and wave. “Randy Ryo MacLean I present to you your grandfather. King Laton, Ruler of the great Dragons of the east of Arcadia.” Ryo stared and felt the breath catch in his throat as he tried to form a reply. Laton smiled and Ryo gulped. Zarro had been correct. This man was terrifying.
Chapter 15
Behind Door Number One
Laton walked in a full circle around Ryo taking in his lithe form and pale beauty. Laton gazed into the shining dark eyes so like his own. The sound of Lyo's screams were an obvious distress to Ryo. “Ho-Lo nice, not Ho-Lo, that not Ho-Lo… Want Ho-Lo.” Lyo screamed out and wrestled against Dee's hold. “Da-Ryo!” The small boy hiccupped and heaved.
“Excuse me your majesty.” Ryo bowed slightly and turned his back to the king of the dragons. “He will make himself ill he is too upset.” Ryo dashed to Lyo's side pulling him into his arms. Laton stood back and watched with no small amount of interest as his grandson attended to the squalling child.
“That child does not share his blood.” Laton said thoughtfully as he sniffed the child from afar. Zarro nodded his head and smiled as he watched Ryo comfort the boy. “I know he is raising another boy. He does not smell as if he is unable to produce children. In fact he smells quite verdant and I am surprised that he has none of his own. Why is this?” Laton gazed at the dark haired man next to his grandson and a frown drew his brows together. “Tell me the nature of my grandson Your Majesty.” Laton demanded and Zarro raised his own brows before he smiled and looked disinterested at the dragon king. It was a look that Laton knew well. He should not have demanded anything of his sovereign. “Forgive me Majesty.”
“I have told you, Majesty does not sit well with me. Besides,” Zarro said and stretched back into his natural state opening his mouth wide in a yawn. “He is your family discover his nature on your own. Personally, I think there is none like him.”
“When the child cries for the Ho-Lo, does he mean the Honlon of Ghidora?” Laton asked thinking of his cousin, great ruler of the dragons of earth who dwelled in the sea.
“Yes he has taken a fancy to her, she is quite kind to him and all the children that live in and around the shop.” Zarro said and padded to his lounge. Sitting among the cushions he began to nibble from a bowl of flowers that had been left for him. “Would you like some my friend?” Zarro offered watching Ryo lead the child from the throne room with Dee. As he left his cell phone rang and Ryo sighed before he answered.
“Perhaps the next attempt to interact should be made at a more leisurely time.” Zarro said around another yawn. Laton watched with amusement as the great white beast that ruled their land fell into a light doze purring softly in the quiet of the hall.
Break
Angel awakened and looked at the bright sunlight. The last thing he remembered was falling asleep in the garden where Sofu had left him. Angel sat up in the bed and ran his hands over the luxurious bed sheets. How had he gotten here? Angel wondered before he got to his feet and wandered around the large room. He opened the armoire and looked at the new clothes that awaited him. They were all modest, not at all like his former brightly colored ensembles. Angel frowned and looked for his suitcase. Finding it empty he sighed and picked an unadorned sheath.
Angel entered the waiting fragrant bath before he closed his eyes with a sigh. Could he accept this treatment? He wondered as he sank into the cleansing bubbles. He had never smelled the like. With a smile he lifted his foam covered hands to his nose and sniffed the water. He felt as if he were still ensconced in the garden surrounded by the beautiful landscape. Angel wrapped his wet body in a length of towel. Angel then looked at the garments that he was to wear. With a sigh he pulled it over his shoulders. The voluminous blue material fell past his feet and brushed the carpeted floor. When Angel lowered his arms the sleeves fell to the floor.
Yes! The thought occurred to Angel suddenly as he thought back on his childhood. He would accept this treatment; there was no other way for him to live. He could not fulfill his promise to mother if he died. He had to live, he had to be kind and show love in all he did, he had to. It was the only way to repay her kindness to him. Angel looked out of the window in his bedroom and was surprised to see that the sun was setting. The moon would rise soon. He had to find that garden. Angel got to his feet and opened the door of his room.
Angel took one step from his room and gasped as the door to the garden was next to him. Yesterday he had walked for hours before he had found it. He looked over and saw a strange horned creature walking the halls. It resembled a male ram but its body was stripped like that of a tiger. The creature looked up at him and bared its teeth. “Do you see something fascinating?” It asked and Angel gasped when the creature turned into an angry looking young man.
“Totetsu,” Angel and the young man turned at the softly spoken command. “We must be kind to our guest. I am sure he has never seen a sacred beast of ancient Asia.”
“Sacred?” Angel asked as he looked at the billowing pants and short vest the young man wore. “Should I bow?”
“If you are to show respect to anyone,” T-Chan said and ran a hand lovingly over Count D's robed arm. “It would be to the Kami.” T-Chan shifted back to his animal form and licked Count D's hand before he stalked down the long hallway. Angel blushed as he prepared to bow to Count D.
“Please do not exert yourself. I do not ask that anyone bow to me.” Count D said and nodded at the garden door. It opened and Angel saw that the moon was rising in the sky over the garden. Sofu stood underneath a large tree with his hands folded in front of him. Angel admired the startling white cheongsam with the scarlet border. Sewn into the garments were small rubies and diamonds. His cropped hair was swept back from his face and pinned neatly behind his ear.
Angel prepared to bow and felt drawn forward towards the Kami. “Do not waste time with superfluous measures. Come relax here.” Angel gasped at Sofu's brisk manner and hurried to his side. Angel reclined among the flowers that Sofu indicated. Without another word Sofu kneeled beside Angel's prone form and arranged his hands over his chest. “Sleep,” Sofu commanded and Angel sank into a slumber so deep he feared he would never awaken.
Break
JJ peeked into his sons' bedroom and watched as Lord D began to sing softly to them. His voice carried and JJ smiled at the lovely melody that reached his ears. Lord D then pressed a kiss to each sleeping boys head. ”Sleep tight my darlings, the sun will bring a new day tomorrow.” JJ approached Lord D before he placed his hands on the slim hips that he knew so well. “You have returned my love.” Lord D said with a sensual smile as he turned to see JJ. “I am glad.” With a seductive twist of his hips Lord D left the nursery. JJ stared with an interested gleam in his bright blue eyes. JJ licked his lips and rushed to Lord D's side before taking one last look at his sleeping babies.
Lord D passed their bedroom before he entered Nana's room. She smiled a bright greeting and sighed. Lately her continued labored breathing had defeated his best efforts. “I was thinking of asking my father to look at you.” Lord D whispered as he placed his stethoscope to her chest. Nana breathed in deeply and Lord D manually cleared away the debris around her lungs. He slipped easily into a trance and stood in the cooling waters allowing his mind to search out the imperfections in her body. Lord D felt himself tiring and he pulled back he shivered as the connection was lost. Nana smiled at him.
“I think you are doing a fantastic job.” Nana confided her bright eyes shining in the dim lamp light of her room. “I must confess, I was a smoker in my youth. I am sure that the reason I am still among the living is due to your care. My lungs gave way a long time ago.”
Lord D blushed and pushed his hair back from his face where it had fallen loose of its silk ribbon. With a few deft movements Nana caught the loosely tied hair and secured it at Lord D's nape. “There is no need for such. I am retiring soon.”
“You are not too tired are you?” Nana said with a sassy grin. Lord D blushed and adjusted his robe busying himself to avoid Nana's direct gaze. “I have seen the way my grandson looks at you. No need to be embarrassed, I was young once.” Nana gently patted Lord D's hand. “Go on, I'll be fine. Good night.”
“Good night NaaNaa.” Lord D said getting to his feet and straitening his robes. “Do not forget to groom Little in the morning. Breath deeply.” Lord D looked at the shaggy dog that Count D had first sold JJ smiling as he left the room. He entered the room and found JJ sitting in bed reading. With a small smile Lord D undid the frog buttons at his collar. “My love, would you attend me?” JJ got to his feet and went to Lord D's side.
JJ peeled the satin from Lord D's shoulders revealing the opaque sleeveless sheath underneath. JJ allowed his hands to travel down the slim arms causing Lord D to shiver. “Come to bed.” JJ whispered before he wrapped his arms around Lord D and backed up until the back of his knees hit the bed. JJ sat and Lord D sat pliant on his lap. “How I do love you.” JJ said against the pale expense of neck bared before him. Lord D smiled and leaned his head to the side offering more of his neck to JJ.
“I love you as well, my heart.” Lord D affirmed cording his fingers through JJ's tousled locks. “I love you as well.” Lord D gasped when he could get no further words past his throat. Lord D shivered when JJ's hand traveled to his sensitive nipples and pinched. “Ah… Jemmy-Chan.” Lord D gasped and his hips bucked when JJ sat him on the bed and climbed over him. “Pants, oh they are too tight, please.” Lord D moaned and arched against JJ hoping that his lover would feel how aroused he was and help him out.
“Don't worry Precious; I'll take care of you.” JJ promised and licked a burning trail to Lord D's chest. “You taste so good.” JJ muttered against the taut, perky flesh he was nibbling. He licked and honey coated his tongue. “I love the way you taste.” JJ said and peeled Lord D's slim pants from his body. The pants barely hit the floor before JJ was swallowing Lord D whole. Lord D spread his legs wide inviting JJ's probing fingers to enter his most private sanctum. JJ was careful as he pushed two fingers in spreading them apart. A third finger worked its way inside and Lord D raised his hips riding the fingers silently begging for more.
“Jemi-Chan…Ah…” Lord D panted biting his lips in frustration. Couldn't JJ see how much he needed him? Just as Lord D began to fear the worst, JJ crawled over him. Lord D eagerly wrapped his legs around JJ's slim hips and squeezed tightly. He collapsed on a pleasurable sigh of relief when JJ pushed in gently at first to get past the tight ring of muscles at Lord D's entrance then deeper. “Hai…Hai…Koibito, Shiite…” Lord D shouted and JJ began to move against him raising his legs higher Lord D was able to take all of JJ inside. JJ felt the nails in his shoulders and smiled, Lord D was close. JJ slipped a hand down and began to stroke Lord D hard length and soon he could hear Lord D cry out and feel him pulse in his hand. Lord D's trembling caused him to squeeze JJ in a viselike grip that was almost painful, but the pressure was enough.
“Oh…Darling…” JJ cried out as he released his own cream into his lover. JJ was still shivering as he collapsed beside Lord D. Pulling his beautiful love into his arms, JJ fell asleep. Lord D wrapped his arms around JJ and followed him in slumber.
Break
“I don't want to go.” Bikky said with a frown and folded his arms. He stared at Ryo and sighed. When Ryo got that stubborn look there was no way to avoid whatever it is he wanted.
“If you do not get a physical, and your immunizations you can't return to school.” Ryo said before he sat a plate of food in front of the irate teenager. With gentle hands he tied a bib on Lyo before setting a plate of pre-sliced waffles in front of the child. All his food was cut to fit into his small fingers. Dee scowled over the breakfast plate. “I have arranged for Lord D to check you and administer the shots…” Ryo paused at the look of fright that crossed Bikky's face. Ryo remembered that Bikky was terrified of needles and he hid a grin. Dee feared them as well.
“I am sure Lord D will be very gentle.” Dee said when he received a sharp look from Ryo. “He seems the type.”
“You know he is.” Ryo said before he sat down at his own place at their dining table. Bikky would never admit it, but their family breakfast was the favorite part of his day. It was true that they had to wake up early but it was worth it to have the quiet time before the daily hustle of their lives took over. It was one of the things that Ryo had insisted upon when they were in New York. Bikky had found the ritual odd, but now, he would not miss it for all the extra minutes of sleep he could imagine. “You will be taken care of today then you and Lyo will remain at Nana's house with them until we get off work. You will go back to school tomorrow.”
Well if anything, he got an extra day out of school. Bikky thought with a small smile of conciliation. It was going to be awkward at school anyway. Before Bikky had even made it to the office half of the girls in his class had stopped him to tell him that his `dad' was hot. Bikky took in Ryo's soft, pretty looks and had to agree, he seemed the type that girls would fall for. Too bad he ended up with a miscreant like Dee. It was what Bikky wanted to believe, but deep down, where he would allow no one to see, he admired Dee. He was another Orphan from the slum, unlike Bikky; there had been no Ryo to set him straight. He had become an admirable detective all on his own. Well, Bikky amended, not entirely on his own, there was Mother.
“Don't think too hard about it.” Dee said as he accepted the syrup from Ryo. “Thanks Baby,” Dee spread butter on his waffles. “If you don't think about the needles and don't look at them, you can almost forget about them.” Dee promised proud that he had managed to hide his own shiver at the mere thought of the pointy objects. Bikky scowled at his breakfast before he began to eat. Lyo clapped syrupy hands and laughed at Ryo who began to diligently clean him up.
Just as Ryo had finished cleaning the plates the doorbell rang. “I got it babe.” Dee said and went to the door.
“Ryo… Lyo stinks.” Bikky shouted from his bedroom. He had gone to grab his homework and Lyo had toddled in after him.
“I'll be right there.” Ryo called back and placed the last of the dishes in the dishwasher.
“Ah Man… Donnie, good to see you!” Ryo stiffened as Dee's voice carried into the kitchen. “What are you doing in town?” Ryo dried his hands on a towel and left the kitchen. He walked past the front door and saw Dee allowing a tall dark haired gentleman into their house.
“Nice place Dee, very domestic.” Donnie said looking around. Donnie took in the artfully arranged family photos. “I… uh… came here to settle an estate for a client. I just thought I would come and say hello, you don't mind do you?” Donnie's casual words put Ryo on edge as he stepped into view. “Hi there, hiding out like a good little wife I see.” Donnie smiled brightly and clapped Dee on the back. “I hear Japanese wives won't approach their husbands when they are in the company of men.”
“I don't know where you get your information, but I doubt I will ever find out.” Ryo muttered and stomped over to Dee. “Are you still locked?” Ryo asked with a pointed stare.
“Yeah,” Dee answered frowning at Donnie. “Hey Don man, cool it ok. Ryo's no ones wife.”
“Ryo…He reeks!” Bikky complained and stepped out of his room with Lyo.
Ryo paused mid stride to the master bedroom and took the small child's hand. “Come along Lyo-chan.” Ryo crooned and carried him to the bathroom.
“Hey, sorry man,” Donnie said to Dee. “Look, if his briefs are in a bunch, I'll go apologize.” Donnie stood and straitened his tie. Donnie rounded the corner of the bathroom and found Ryo sitting on a small stool. Lyo was laying in front of him with his little legs in the air.
“A… B… C… D…. E… F… G…” Lyo sang as Ryo wiped him clean with a soft smelling wipe. “H…I…J…K… Lmnopeee…” Ryo chuckled as Lyo tried to hit a high note.
“Q…R... S…T…U…V…W…X…Y…and Z.” Ryo joined Lyo and sang along as he smeared a thin layer of diaper cream on his bottom. “Now we know our Abc's next time won't you sing with me?” Ryo looked up and saw Donnie in the doorway. Ryo smiled to hide is disgruntlement and pulled Lyo's pants up. “Enjoying the show?” Ryo asked and stood.
Donnie slammed his hand down on the sink counter and glared at Ryo. “Mighty thorough aren't you? Made sure all his little places were real clean.”
“Well, yeah, I mean... No sense in letting him get a rash.” Ryo ignored Donnie's smirk and went to the sink. He stood Lyo on his stool and washed both of their hands. “You might want to clean that up, highly unsanitary.” Ryo remarked as he used a small trash bag to scoop up the diaper that Donnie had slammed his hand on. The contents had given way under the pressure and coated Donnie's hand. Ryo was silent as he sent Lyo out of the large bathroom and in to Bikky. Ryo was silent as he picked up the cleaner and began to clean the counter. Ryo was laughing as he left the bathroom and entered the bedroom where he took out the safe that contained he and Dee's weapons.
Donnie finished cleaning his hands and found Dee lounging on the sofa sipping his coffee. Ryo emerged from the bedroom wearing a pair of dark brown suspenders attached to his light brown dress pants. Paired with his cream colored top and matching jacket, Ryo was a honey colored dream and Dee had force himself not to stare. Donnie looked between the two and scowled. “Hey Donnie, Ryo and I have to work today, but maybe we can have dinner or something before you leave town.” Dee said not looking away from Ryo who walked over.
For the first time, Donnie noticed that the suspenders were doing more than holding up Ryo's pants; attached to them were double shoulder holsters, both now occupied by impressive Smith and Wesson's. Donnie stared goggled-eyed as Ryo handed two similar weapons to Dee. “Here you go safety on…” Ryo said and Dee slipped them into his own holsters, which Donnie just realized he was wearing.
“Thanks babe,” Dee muttered and pulled Ryo in for a kiss. Ryo blushed but allowed Dee to capture his lips. “Hey brat, get your keester hauling, we got to move it.” Dee called and Bikky slouched into the living room his baggy jeans dragging the floor.
“I know you are not going to school today, but do you have to look so disreputable?” Ryo complained with a good-natured laugh. “Sorry Donnie, some other time we really do have to get moving.” Ryo said and slipped some extra pull-ups into Lyo's bag.
“Yeah whatever, see you man.” Donnie said and left the house frowning as he discovered that some of the mess from the bathroom was on the cuff of his expensive suit.