[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale bowed again, respectfully deeper than Norio. "Your most gracious apology is accepted, Hayashi-sensei. Please do not give what happened another thought. It is already forgotten." He straightened and smiled, glad he had pulled his hair back without bangs today. Norio did not return Vale's smile, but he was not glowering, either, and Vale took that as an excellent sign.

"Tell me, Hayashi-sama, how is the family? Is everyone well?" Ayame asked with her beautiful smile.

"You are most kind to ask, Ayame-sama. The family is all doing well. Satoshi has been very busy at the studio, and has been working with some well known personalities. Willow is writing her latest book, and she has been helping with some of the paperwork for the school. Tatsuya and Yuki are at university, both with rather daunting course loads, but they are settling in very well. Masato has been most helpful with Hikaru while I assist in my own small way here at the school." Vale opened the door to the office with a small bow, waiting for Ayame and Norio to precede him into the hallway.

"And the children?" Ayame inquired.

"Ryuu and Aika have started at their new school, and are doing marvelously." Vale's smile grew radiant as he spoke about the children. "We enrolled them in the private school near our home, and we are all very pleased. Aika was a little bit nervous at first, but she adjusted almost immediately and now she is eager to attend every day."

Ayame laid her hand on Norio's arm again, and Norio turned to Vale.

"How old is Hikaru now, Hayashi-sama?" Norio asked. He looked directly at Vale as he inquired, and Vale bowed a little almost reflexively.

"Hikaru is almost six months old now, Hayashi-sensei," Vale replied, his voice full of love for his son.

Norio nodded. "He is developing well?"

"Oh, yes, Hayashi-sensei. He sees his pediatrician each month, and we have been assured that he is completely on schedule for his development." Vale was slightly taken aback by Norio's interest, but he was also pleased that Norio would inquire about Hikaru. Ayame gave Vale a reassuring smile as she patted her husband's arm.

"He is a very beautiful boy. You are blessed to have such a beautiful son," Norio said, and the sincerity in Norio's eyes made Vale's heart swell with joy.

"Thank you, Hayashi-sensei. I feel very blessed to know the joy of being a father." Vale's smile was positively incandescent. He paused at the end of the hallway. "May I show you some of our facilities? This is our auditorium, which has a full sound and light system as well as the latest in acoustical tiling to ensure the audience's listening pleasure in every seat." He opened the doors and bowed, his eyes reflecting his complete happiness.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

"No, Yuki-chan, you're holding the cue all wrong," Kageoshi giggled. He adjusted Erion's fingers on the pool cue, his fingers warm and delicate on the elf's hand. "If you squeeze it like that, the cue can't slide through your fingers. It sticks, and then you hit the cue all wrong."

Erion giggled as well. "I keep wanting to grip it tight, like it's a quarterstaff or something."

Kageoshi looked at Erion, a little puzzled. "Do you do martial arts training?"

"Oh, no!" Erion grinned. "But my father is in the guard, like the police here, I suppose, and he was teaching me some things. Satoshi and Masato, now they are something to see when they're training at home. They made a little training ground in the back, and it's awesome to watch. You have to come one day and see them, toror'."

"Oohh, I'd love to," Kageoshi replied, his eyes bright. "What do they use? Katanas?"

Erion nodded. "Katanas, and longswords. Well, Masato's not using a real katana yet, not until Ishikawa-sensei says he can, but he's teaching Satoshi the longsword."

"Let me know when I can come," Kageoshi said, taking a sip of his light beer.

Erion was mildly disappointed at being limited to just one light beer, but he was not about to let that spoil the afternoon. Instead, he sipped his beer to make it last, and then politely ordered a soft drink for himself when he and Kansas went to get a round of drinks.

"You're being good, isilmeamin," Kansas teased.

Erion grinned and shrugged a little. "It was nice enough of the bartender to give us one, since I'm really not supposed to have any. I don't want to make trouble for Momo, either."

Erion and Kageoshi played another game, and then challenged Ryo and Eric to a match. Erion and Ryo wound up laughing so hard over their mistakes that they had to cling to each other to stand up, and Kageoshi pretended to be terribly disappointed in Erion as a pupil. Wiping away the tears from laughing so hard, Erion went back to playing, and concentrated on what Kageoshi had taught him. To his own surprise, he actually made a few decent shots, and sank two balls himself. Kageoshi praised Erion, who turned around and praised Kageoshi's skill as a teacher, and they wound up trying to top each others' compliments until they were helpless with laughter.

Kansas and Momo played with a fierce intensity, unlike the other four boys, and their table was mainly quiet except for the crack of the cue ball as another ball was sunk. It was fast and furious, and Erion finally gave up playing just to watch Kansas and Momo, his silver eyes wide with awe. Ryo wandered over to join Erion, while Kageoshi and Eric played another game. Erion and Ryo maintained a respectful silence, both of them trying to memorize the way Kansas and Momo moved, their graceful, almost careless ease like a ballet. Erion cheered at the end of the match, even though Kansas had lost by one ball to Momo.

They would have stayed longer, but Kageoshi's mother called to see when he would be home, and Eric declared that he would not be able to drive if he stayed longer.

"Come on, Rira, I'll drive you and Ryo home," Eric offered, throwing an arm around each boy. They said their farewells, and Erion promised to call Kageoshi later about an assignment that had them both slightly puzzled. Kansas and Erion took the train, Erion chattering about his classes and the various professors. The young elf was quite serious about his work, though, and he was actually eager to get home and start on some of his assignments, and Kansas felt a surge of pride in how well Erion was adapting.

For his part, Erion bit back the urge to ask about Taka, and why exactly Momo reacted so strongly to the sight of Taka. He decided he would wait and see what he could discover on his own before he asked Kansas.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion favored Taka with one of his most radiant smiles. "I hope this isn't going to affect our relationship as freshman and class rep? Me stealing Tatsuya?" Erion looked at his lunch, his accent returning to his normal rapidfire Tokyo accent as he spoke again. "Damn it, 'lokiamin, we need to get up earlier and make bento boxes. When do you think they made this stuff? Last semester?"

Kansas started to laugh. "I get up early enough, isilmeamin, and then you drag me back to bed."

"It's not like you argue too much," Erion retorted, his beautiful laugh ringing out.

"Oh, so how's your tattoo healing, Erion-san?" Eric asked, and Ryo nodded eagerly.

Erion gave a dramatic sigh. "I'm telling you, that bench was a lifesaver. But it feels great now, and I think it needs one more session, right, baby?"

Kansas nodded. "That should be enough, I think. All that's left is highlights and details."

"It's going to be gorgeous, Yuki-chan," Kageoshi said, and then covered his mouth as he giggled nervously. "I'm sorry, I sort of think of you as Yuki-chan in my head and it just slipped out."

Erion threw his arms around Kageoshi and hugged him. "I love it, it's so perfect! Did you remember that was the name I want to take when I become a full citizen? That's the nicest thing. Oh, but now I need to call you something special!" Erion widened his silver eyes, entirely aware that Taka was fuming at the other end of the table. "I know! I used to do a lot of roleplaying back home, and we used to play around with the elvish from Tolkien and try to speak it, or at least our own version of it."

"Oh, really? That is so cool," Ryo said, his own eyes wide.

"So, anyway, there's this word we use, toror', that's just perfect," Erion said, looking right at Kageoshi. "It means brother, and that's how I feel about you. It's like you're my brother."

Kageoshi's eyes were bright, and shining with happiness. "Really?" He threw his arms around Erion, and the two youngsters hugged again.

"Are we eating or hugging?" Eric teased good-naturedly.

"I get Kageoshi's bento!" Ryo shouted, laughing uproariously.

Erion slid his eyes sideways, watching as Taka fumed and Little Taka seemed to fold in on himself a little more. Taka's eyes never left Kansas, and Erion narrowed his own eyes slightly, his skin crawling. There was something about Taka that made the young elf more than wary, and he could sense that Kansas's guard was up as well. Erion remembered how Momo's voice had turned to ice when Taka's name was brought up, and certainly Kageoshi was not comfortable around him. Erion decided to make sure that he was with Kageoshi as much as possible during the school day, and that they would find a way to schedule any appointments with their class representative together, or at least back to back appointments.

Kansas reached out and rubbed Erion's arm lightly, sensing his beloved's uneasy mood, and Erion gave himself a mental shake and pulled out a bright smile. He looked over at Kageoshi's lunch and moaned dramatically. "Oh, that looks so good. That's it, tomorrow I'm making a bento." Kansas started to laugh, and Erion gave him a playful smack on the arm. "Just for that, I'm not making one for you."

"You know you'll get Akira to do it anyway," Kansas teased, and Erion managed a full second of pouting before he gave up and giggled.

"Him or Satoshi," Erion agreed.

"Which means getting your ass out of bed before they leave," Kansas pointed out. Erion mimed utter distress, and everyone laughed and began to eat, chatting about nonsense and their schedules, the older students commenting on the professors that Erion and Kageoshi would have. Taka interjected a few comments, and Little Taka confined himself to giggling whenever Taka laughed.

Erion was finishing his cigarette after eating when Taka stood, and smiled at him.

"You should hurry up and finish. You don't want to be late for your next class," Taka advised, but there was something so cold in his eyes that Erion had to suppress a shudder. "It would look bad to be late on the very first day, and you want to make a good impression."

"We'd better run," Erion agreed. "We'll meet here later, okay?" He snatched a quick kiss from Kansas and shouldered his backpack. "Come on, toror'. I think I remember the way." He grabbed Kageoshi's hand and the two youngsters hurried off before Taka could catch up with them.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion was torn between excitement as he sat next to Kageoshi, and boredom as Yoshida Chie droned on. It was not until she began to read out the class representatives that Erion began to pay attention.

The class representative for Sociology was named Ogawa Takahiro, tall and pony-tailed, with a hard look to him that made Erion's hackles rise. Kageoshi was even more upset, gnawing on his backpack strap in agitation.

"Kageoshi-san, what's wrong?" Erion whispered, but Kageoshi just shook his head slightly and pretended to listen to the incredibly boring Yoshida Chie. Erion shifted his backpack to hide his hand as he grabbed onto Kageoshi tightly, trying to reassure his friend. Kageoshi's fingers were cold and clammy in Erion's hand, and Erion cast a worried look at Kageoshi, who was pale and biting at his lip.

Finally, the endless orientation speeches were over, and Erion half-pulled Kageoshi out of his seat to hurry outside. As Erion rose, he saw the class representative, this Ogawa person, look at him speculatively, the kind of look that made Erion want to take a long hot bath. With a small frown, the young elf turned back to his friend.

"What was that about? You looked like you saw a ghost," Erion said, but Kageoshi just waved his hand with a nervous titter.

"It's nothing, Erion-san. I think I'm just a bundle of nerves about school starting," Kageoshi said. He flashed Erion a quick look, almost pleading silently with Erion to drop the subject.

"It's okay, Kageoshi-san. I don't think I slept a wink last night myself. I've been looking forward to this and now I'm completely terrified that I'll make an idiot out of myself in my classes, and say something stupid, and everyone will think I'm an idiot foreigner." Erion laughed, his bright laughter making Kageoshi giggle a little as well.

"That's it exactly! But at least we'll have some classes together, right?" Kageoshi smiled and Erion nodded eagerly, willing to let the topic drop for the moment.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale continued to rub Yuji's back, his green eyes serious for a change. "It's always terrifying to start out on your own like this. It's understandable to be anxious. But I want you to do something for me, something that will guarantee our success."

"What is it? How can you guarantee anything like that?" Yuji still had his head resting on the desk, but his knees were almost still.

Vale smiled his beautiful smile. "You are a musician, Yuji. It's what you love, and who you are. It runs so deeply in your soul that you can't be separated from it. So, you make music with your students, the private ones and the group, and leave the day to day details to me. I can't make music, but I can organize schedules, and order supplies, and make sure that instruments are repaired or maintained or tuned. I'll see to it that bills and salaries are paid, and tuition sent in, and parents get all the information they require. I have Willow to help with the paperwork as well, when I need an extra hand, but I'd rather let her write."

Yuji reached out and took Vale's hand, his finger still icy. "That's a lot to drop on you, Vale. Are you sure?"

"Yuji, I love music with every fiber of my being, but I can't coax it out of my soul the way you and Satoshi can." Vale rubbed the icy fingers between his warm hands. "Let me help by taking care of the background stuff. I've been doing things like this for over three hundred years, and the Cloaktower is still around. We can do this together."

Yuji took a deep breath, sitting up slowly. "You're right. I was forgetting that I'm not alone." Yuji smiled at Vale, his eyes brighter and his confidence returning. "The students are amazing, aren't they? I love working with them."

"And it shows, a'maelamin. I've seen your face when you're heading off to work with them. You light up, and your joy is so apparent that they can't help but love you, and work all the harder for it." Vale tweaked Yuji's tie back into place, a skill he was mastering after Sand had devoted a great deal of energy into teaching Vale how to knot a tie perfectly. "You have time before your nest lesson. Let me get us some tea, and you can tell me about how they're doing."

Yuji's face lit up, and Vale hurried off to get them tea from the tearoom off his office. He came back with the tea and some cookies, and listened as Yuji talked about his private students, Yuji's eyes glowing with enthusiasm. The panic was utterly gone, and Yuji found himself looking forward to the student he would be seeing next, a young boy of fifteen who had been studying piano since he was three, and who was as enthusiastic as Yuji. Yuji also had a six year old girl who was a child prodigy, and a new student, a twelve year old girl who had only been studying piano for three years, but who had such potential that Yuji was excited about working with her.

"And I need to get moving," Yuji laughed, looked at the clock. "Thank you for putting things back into perspective, Vale. Now, I'm going to go make music."

"Go, and be brilliant," Vale laughed, gathering the tea things and watching Yuji with love as he hurried off to his lesson.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand looked at Satoshi, his eyes brilliant in the starlight. "You weave such magic with your music, saiai. I am bewitched, utterly, and humbled that you have chosen to share this with me." Sand ran his fingers lightly along the back of Satoshi's hand. "I think elves would dream of making such music as this. Will you play a little more for me?"

Satoshi looked at Sand, curled back up on the rug, unselfconsciously naked and watching with love shining in his eyes. "What should I play?"

"Play our song, saiai." Sand's smile was sweet, and in the dim light, he looked as young as Erion.

Satoshi blushed furiously, but his smile was radiant as he bent his head over his guitar for a moment and then began to play, singing the words softly in his beautiful voice. Sand listened, utterly rapt, a single tear tracking slowly down his cheek as he opened his bond fully to share his joy and wonderment.

Sand was not sure where the time went, but the sky above was beginning to brighten all of a sudden. Satoshi was still playing his music, beautiful and perfect, and Sand sat up slowly when Satoshi finished the song, his eyes bright with love.

"What a perfect way to spend a night," Sand laughed as he reached up to stroke Satoshi's cheek. "This was far better than any reverie could have been."

Satoshi looked up, startled, and giggled a little. "I played all night?"

"It was perfect and beautiful," Sand said as Satoshi put his guitar to one side and stood to stretch. Sand stood as well, lithe and graceful, and pulled Satoshi close, leaning in to plunder Satoshi's sweet mouth. "I love you, Satoshi, more each day," Sand murmured into the kiss. Satoshi wrapped his arms around Sand, returning the kiss, grinding himself against Sand and moaning softly.

Sand guided Satoshi back to the bed, and they sank down onto the mattress. Sand's hands slid down Satoshi's sides and around to his back, coming to rest wrapped around the globes of his ass and Satoshi pushed his hips forward, his cock sliding against Sand's thick cock. Sand arched an inquiring brow, and Satoshi mewled and nipped Sand's lower lip, his fingers sliding through Sand's hair to tease his ears. Sand moaned happily, rolling onto his back so Satoshi could straddle him, fingers straying up to tease Satoshi's nipple rings. Satoshi rose up and lined Sand's cock up with his ass, lowering himself until the head of Sand's cock had pushed into his tight little ass. Satoshi mewled a little, and Sand held very still, one hand rubbing Satoshi's back as Satoshi adjusted.

After a few moments, Satoshi pressed himself down, slowly engulfing all of Sand's thick cock until his ass was resting on Sand's thighs. Sand could see the pleasure in Satoshi's eyes, his cheeks flushed as he began to rock his hips, making wanton little sounds as Sand's thick cock churned in his ass. They made love slowly, tenderly, Satoshi leaning forward to lose himself in kissing Sand, his cock pressed between their flat bellies, their bond wide open so that each could feel the others' arousal building. Sand worked one slim hand between then, wrapping his fingers around Satoshi's cock and stroking it firmly as Satoshi mewled into the kiss.

It took another few minutes of the sweet slow pace, and Satoshi could not hold out any longer, his balls aching with the need to empty. Sand increased the pace of his stroking, and Satoshi howled as his balls jumped, his cum coating their bellies with liquid heat as his tight little ass clamped down on Sand's cock. Sand matched Satoshi's howl, his back arching as he pressed himself fully into Satoshi, spurt after spurt of cum filling that sweet ass as he pulled Satoshi into his arms, cradling him as they shuddered through their orgasms.

Sand helped Satoshi ease himself of Sand's softening cock, and then he cradled his beloved husband close as he pulled up the covers again, watching as Satoshi's eyes closed, a blissful smile on that sweet mouth. Sand let himself sink back into reverie for a short time, his heart light and his soul complete.

[BronxWench's Review Replies]

Prompt: Gallimaufry "The Gauntlet"

From JayDee:

Phew! I was looking forward to this - I wanted to see someone who knew what they were doing use the word, seeing as the only one of these prompts I'd heard of so far was Embrocation... They're running a gauntlet of tests, we've got one of prompts, nearly half way now though I guress. So, high dragons - apparantly not dragons that've been hitting the bong from that terrified reaction

Ahem. Sorry. I can feel how much more serious this part is than the last prompt. Alistair's assrtiveness is gentle but firm, I think it really follows your previous parts well. Has Wraith really put his past to rest though? It's easy to say...

I think their gauntlet is easier than ours. At least they get to occasionally whack things with a sword...

We'll see how well Wraith has put his past to rest, but Alistair is certainly stepping forward a bit more, and that's never a bad thing. The shy Chantry boy is staking his claim.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand cradled Satoshi in his arms, listening to the sweet song that emanated from his husband, wrapped in a magic that Satoshi alone could create. Sand knew better than to speak, content to let this fragile beauty unfold, a beauty that so perfectly reflected the beauty of Satoshi's soul that Sand was breathless for an instant, his eyes welling with tears of joy. They remained entwined a while longer, unless the bath water had gotten uncomfortably cool, and Sand felt a small shiver run through Satoshi.

"Wait here, saiai," Sand murmured, and slipped behind the screen to bring out more heated water to warm up the bath. As Sand got back in, Satoshi smiled at him so sweetly that Sand felt his already half-hard cock stiffen even more.

"Beautiful," Sand murmured. "You are so very beautiful in starlight, have I told you this?" Sand leaned in and captured Satoshi's lips in a tender kiss, letting his love and desire flow outward to envelope Satoshi.

Satoshi wriggled so that he was straddling Sand, letting Sand feel his own hard cock as it rested against Sand's belly. He dove back into the kiss, slow and sweet, and Sand slid one hand slowly up to toy with Satoshi's nipple rings. Satoshi sighed happily into the kiss, his fingers tangling in Sand's hair as he undulated slowly, grinding against Sand's cock with a slow and deliberately sensuous little wriggle. Sand moaned a little, but he was enjoying this slow teasing far too much to want to hurry things along. Satoshi's fingers found Sand's ears, and stroked lightly along the edge of the shell, sweeping up to the sensitive tips, and Sand moaned again.

"You're beautiful yourself, poldoramin," Satoshi told Sand. "I love it when your eyes get all dark and smoky blue, and your ears get flushed. You're gorgeous when you're hot and bothered." Satoshi giggled a little and teased Sand's lips with his piercings, moaning a little when Sand's tongue flicked out to swipe that delectable little mouth.

"I am, am I?" Sand chuckled. He let his hands slide around Satoshi's back, pulling his husband in for another sweet kiss, teasing his lips apart to delve into that tight little mouth.

Satoshi moaned a little and ground his hips down, feeling Sand's rock-hard cock sliding beneath his own cock. Sand's hands moved lower, coming to rest on Satoshi's hips, and Sand bucked his own hips upward. Satoshi moaned again and wriggled, and Sand let one hand drift to cup a tight round butt cheek. Satoshi arched his back, thrusting his ass backward into Sand's hand while rubbing his cock along Sand's thick cock, and Sand all but purred as he rubbed back. One long finger slid into the tight cleft and teased the quivering pucker between Satoshi's cheeks, feeling the muscle twitch in anticipation of being breached. The slightly oily water provided enough lubrication for Sand's finger to slip easily into Satoshi's tight little ass, and Satoshi moaned and pushed against Sand's finger with a soft mewl as Sand plundered his mouth.

Sand teased Satoshi's ass a bit before adding a second finger, feeling the tight pucker relaxing as he thrust languidly into the inviting heat. Satoshi writhed in pleasure, breaking the kiss breathlessly, his beautiful eyes glowing with joy and love.

"I want you, poldoramin." Satoshi obligingly rose up as Sand withdrew his fingers and wrapped strong hands around Satoshi's hips, guiding him down onto his thick cock. Sand pressed the head of his cock into Satoshi's ass, his own eyes nearly black with desire, and he paused to let Satoshi adjust to the intrusion. It was only a few moments before Satoshi was pressing down, sliding his tight little ass over Sand's thick cock until he had taken it to the root. Satoshi rocked his hips, churning Sand's cock within himself, mewling happily as Sand moaned in pleasure.

"You are always so tight, saiai, so delicious," Sand moaned, his hips bucking as Satoshi rocked and ground himself down. Satoshi was setting a slow pace, and Sand pulled Satoshi into a kiss as they writhed together. Satoshi leaned forward, his pierced nipples rubbing across Sand's tight nubs, and Sand arched into the contact, his tongue toying with Satoshi's pierced lower lip.

Time seemed to become irrelevant as they moved together, Sand stroking Satoshi's cock as Satoshi rocked, the tight heat around Sand's cock utterly maddening and divine. Sand could feel the heat building in his belly, and he could feel Satoshi's arousal as well,and the two blended into a single note as they moved in perfect harmony, their bodies fitting together effortlessly. It pushed Sand close to spilling just to feel Satoshi's pleasure, and Sand stroked a little more firmly, until Satoshi stiffened, his back arching as his balls drew up and he painted both their chests with thick white ropes of cum. Satoshi's sweet ass tightened spasmodically around Sand, and Sand groaned as his own balls emptied, filling Satoshi's ass with a huge load of cum.

Shuddering with the intensity of his orgasm, Sand cried out softly and pulled Satoshi into his arms, holding his beloved husband against him and feathering kisses against his temple and brow as the wind chimes sang all around them.

[Week 31: 5/8/11]

Pen Name: BronxWench

Story link: The Gauntlet

Review Replies: Second Quarter 2011

Type of fic: FlashFic

Rating: Adult

Fandom: Games>Dragon Age: Origins

Warnings: AFFO, ChallengeFic, M/M, NoSex

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand leaned in and kissed Satoshi tenderly. "Just keep being yourself, cormamin, because you are perfect." He held Satoshi close for a moment, and then they untangled themselves as Satoshi looked around again in wonder.

Sand slipped his arm around Satoshi's waist, delighted when Satoshi slid his own arm around Sand, not worried about what anyone would think. "The palace is the home of Queen Ellisime, ruler of Suldanessellar, the hidden realm of the wood elves. She is beautiful, and wise, and very kind, and she has been Queen for thousands of years. She is much beloved of Rillifane Rallathil, the Leaflord, who is the patron of this city."

"But why is it hidden?" Satoshi asked. "It's so beautiful, like a vision."

"Ellisime is the Guardian of a very sacred elven treasure, the Tree of Life. It is said that the Seldarine themselves draw their life force from the Tree, and so its home is hidden from those that would seek to misuse its power." Sand started walking toward the small dwelling he had pointed out to Satoshi."Our wood elven cousins are masterful archers and defend this place well, and the Leaflord protects it as well. I have come here before, and I never cease to be astonished by its beauty myself."

As they walked along, the elves that passed them greeted them warmly and many called them selen, which Sand translated as "cousin." These elves had hair in shades ranging from deep chestnut to vibrant copper, with eyes that were moss green or rich golden brown, and their accent was musical and lively. Many wore variations of the green armor of the elf that had greeted them at the hidden entrance, and others wore flowing gowns or tunics of fine linen, in every shade of green and amber and gold.

When they reached the dwelling, after crossing a few of the delicate but surprisingly strong bridges, Sand pushed the door open and led Satoshi into the comfortable interior. "I use this dwelling whenever I am here, and when I am not, it is a guesting house for other visitors from Evereska."

A beautiful table of inlaid woods held a small feast of fruits, berries, nuts, small savory pastries and thin buttery wafers. A bottle of wine and two crystal goblets accompanied the food. There was a wide padded couch and soft rugs underfoot, laid over woven matting that looked quite like tatami mats to Satoshi. Small lanterns cast a soft glow across the room, and a spiral staircase wound around the trunk of the tree that hosted the dwelling.

Up the stairs was the bedroom, and Satoshi gasped a little when he saw that the roof was partially open to the night sky, the stars shining like jewels. A wind chime was suspended form a branch over the opening, and its delicate music made Satoshi's fingers itch to reach for his guitar. A thick padded mattress lay on the floor mats, covered with silken quilts and fluffy pillows, and an arched doorway led into a bathing chamber. A polished wooden tub was filled with fragrant steaming water, and a graceful table held thick towels. A small basin had toothbrushes and toothpaste waiting beside it, and the roof over the tub was also open, another wind chime offering its song.

Sand took Satoshi's bag and his own, and put them aside along with Satoshi's guitar. Sand pulled Satoshi into his arms, kissing him and letting his love for his husband pour forth.

"We did not give you a chance to freshen up after work, saiai. I thought you might want a bath before anything else." Sand nibbled another kiss as he began to unbutton his own shirt, his blue eyes full of adoration for Satoshi.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand's smile was radiant. "And I love you, cormamin, and I did not think we should let your birthday slip past without having our friends around us." Sand gestured at the crowd of laughing, happy faces as everyone started to surround Satoshi. Yuji reached him first, hugging Satoshi and handing him a drink while Sand pulled Matsu and Kohaku into the crowd, laughing.

"Thank you both, so much. Was Satoshi irritable all day? We sent him off in a dreadful mood." Sand laughed again, leading Matsu and Kohaku to the drinks table inside.

Matsu's wife came over and hugged Matsu, giggling a little, Kohaku's girlfriend beside her. "Well, Satoshi seems happier now."

Kohaku wrapped his arm around his girlfriend's waist and grinned at Sand. "Masato-san, this is Tanaka Emiko, the love of my life. Emiko-chan, this is Mori Masato, Satoshi's gorgeous husband that I was telling you about."

Sand bowed politely. "I am so very happy to meet you, Emiko-chan, and thank you for being here to help us celebrate Satoshi's birthday."

Matsu beamed. "And this is my wife, Matsumoto Umeko."

Sand bowed to Umeko as well. "Umeko-chan, the pleasure is all mine. I apologize for not even having a chance to introduce myself earlier, but the caterers needed a word. I did not want Willow fussing with all the food for the party tonight."

"Oh, please, Masato-san, don't even think about it another moment," Umeko laughed. "This is just wonderful, all of it. But where is Ryuu?"

Sand smiled. "Ryuu is staying with friends tonight, and I am sure he does not even miss his stuffy old fathers."

"Oh, you have a son?" Emiko said. "We have two daughters, did Kohaku tell you?"

"And showed him all the pictures!" Kohaku giggled.

"How old is your son?" Emiko asked, and she and Sand began discussing their children, both of them glowing as they talked.

Satoshi looked around, his face radiant as he took in all the friends and family gathered there. Hideko hugged him with her sweet goofy giggle, and Tsutomo hugged him as well.

"Where are the kids?" Satoshi asked.

Hideko grinned. "They got swooped off. Apparently, Falon, Ryuu and Tomio are having a sleepover in Falon's room, and Mist took little Sora for me. Eryn has Aika and Hikaru, and they'll all come back thoroughly spoiled tomorrow."

Satoshi breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that Ryuu would be so happy to spend the night with his onii-san that he would not even miss his chichi. He looked around and shouted in pleasure. "Kiyoshi-san! Haruka-chan!"

There were more hugs and happy tears, and Satoshi saw several more friends from the studio who had left earlier, as well as some of Yuji's colleagues from the music school. Vale came up behind him and gave him a hug, and Satoshi laughed and hugged his other elven husband happily.

"This is great, Vale, really great. I can't believe you all did this," Satoshi said, his eyes bright.

Vale laughed delightedly. "Blame Sand. He and Willow cooked this up between them."

"Satoshi-san!"

Satoshi turned, to see Kenji and Yori hurrying over, both of them smiling radiantly. "Kenji-san! Yori-san!" Satoshi hugged his uncle and then Yori, noticing the clear gaze and air of joy that enveloped the young man. "You both came, I'm so happy!"

Yori looked at Kenji for a moment and then leaned in to Satoshi, his eyes so bright that Satoshi gasped a little. "I felt Kenji's heart this morning," Yori confided, ecstatic. "And look..." Yori held out his hand, his beautiful brow furrowing in concentration, and two of his fingers twitched slightly. "The treatment is working, Satoshi-san, it's really working. I can feel warmth and cold and I can feel Kenji touch me."

Kenji was as radiant as Yori. "The pain is easing as well. This treatment is like a miracle."

Satoshi choked back a sob of pure joy. For all the aggravation earlier in the day, the night was turning out to be perfect. The food was gorgeous, and Satoshi was almost afraid to ask who Sand had hired, instead taking a plate of all his favorite treats. Sand swept by and dragged Yori off to meet Kohaku. Somewhere along the line, Yuji was coaxed to play the piano, and Kohaku gave a small preview of the song he and Satoshi were working on.

The party had finally ended, and the caterers had cleared away everything to Willow's great delight. Satoshi was still floating in a cloud of happiness over the wonderful surprise when Sand came over, and murmured into Satoshi's ear. "Get your acoustic guitar and follow me."

Satoshi looked at Sand, but his husband just smiled his most beautiful smile, and so Satoshi ran upstairs and got his guitar. When he returned downstairs, Sand had a portal open, but it was not the portal to Neverwinter.

"Where are we going?" Satoshi asked, a little confused. "Is it Ryuu?"

"Ryuu is fine," Sand assured Satoshi, leaning in to kiss him. "I had a mind to spend the night somewhere different. Tell me, cormamin, have you ever made love in a tree?"

Satoshi looked at Sand as if he had lost his mind. "You're taking me to a treehouse?"

"In a manner of speaking," Sand replied. "Trust me, saiai." He held out his hand to Satoshi, and when Satoshi took it, they stepped through the portal.

They arrived on what was most definitely a tree, but it was immense. The branch under their feet was as wide as a small street, and the trunk ahead of them looked as massive as an office tower. Sand led Satoshi toward the trunk, and Satoshi followed, his eyes wide. Sand tapped on the trunk, and the illusion of a solid tree faded to reveal a concealed gate, a slim elven male in gorgeously crafted green armor stepping out. His chestnut hair was shot through with copper, and hung to his waist in a thick ponytail, and a bow was in one slim hand.

"We are always pleased to welcome kin," the elf said, his accent even more lilting than Vale's or Sand's accents. "How shall we know you?"

Sand smiled. "Sand en Nosse Iradil, and this is my husband, Satoshi en Nosse Iradil ar' Anorongil."

"Then be welcome to our fair city of Suldanessallar, and may the peace of Queen Ellisime warm you," the elf replied, bright merriment dancing in his voice. He stepped aside and bowed, and Sand led Satoshi into the tree, and beyond it to the entry platform of the wood elven city.

The immense trees were filled with platforms connected by delicate-looking bridges that were intricately decorated with swirling patterns. Some of the platforms were small, with perhaps a bench or two, or a fountain. Others were larger and held homes that looked as though they had grown perfectly in harmony with the trees around them. The largest of the platforms held large buildings and what looked like a palace, with tall gates that stood open and welcoming. All around them, elves walked past, bright and merry, and many paused to smile at Sand and Satoshi, greeting them in musical accents and calling them selen, which Sand translated as cousin.

Overhead, the leafy canopy parted to allow the sky to be seen, the black of the night lit by a hundred thousand twinkling stars as a gentle breeze set soft chimes to ringing from almost every home. Sand pointed at a small dwelling, several platforms away. "That will be our treehouse, cormamin. What do you think?"

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Hideko arrived first, her sweet giggle announcing her entrance as she flung herself into Yuji's arms. Willow was next and Vale, and then Hideko hugged Sora fiercely before looking Hawk up and down, one delicate eyebrow arched. Hawk shifted a little, looking somewhat sheepish, and Sand had to smother a chuckle in Satoshi's shoulder at the sight of his fierce older brother all but cowering before the petite Japanese woman.

"So, you making my hibaba happy?" Hideko asked, and laughter danced in her voice.

"I'm trying," Hawk replied with a deep bow, as Sora giggled and smacked his arm lightly.

Hideko's lips twitched, and then she gave up and grinned as she launched herself at the taller elf. "I'm teasing you, Hawk. I'm so happy for you both." She planted a resounding kiss on Hawk's cheek. "I'm not calling you hijiji, though."

Hawk hugged Hideko, relieved and happy. Hideko then grabbed Satoshi, hugging him as tightly as she had Yuji.

"You look gorgeous, Toshi-chan. Married life is agreeing with you." Hideko beamed at Satoshi, who laughed, not even the hint of a blush on his cheeks. "Come here, Sand, and bend down. You're all so damned big!" Hideko hugged Sand tightly, whispering, "Thank you," in his ear.

They all went into the living room, and Hideko looked at everyone, her eyes bright. "So, where's my patient?"

"They're on the way," Satoshi said. "Hideko-chan, this means so much to me. Thank you."

Hideko waved a hand at Satoshi. "I'm glad to help, and you know I keep my license active. Things like this make it all worthwhile. That boy's too young to be going through this. I liked him when I met him, and your uncle's marvelous. What exactly am I giving Yori?"

Sand smiled. "The first step is an injection, which is actually just saline solution with some vitamins and minerals added. I leave it to you if you wish to administer it in a vein or in the injured arm. The next step is a drink, which we are calling a supplement but which contains the actual treatment. Satoshi prepared a ginger tea base for it, but it may still have a slightly bitter taste. Honey can be added safely if Yori desires. The final step is covering the injured arm in cotton pads soaked in what we will say is a moisturizing solution."

Hideko nodded. "And what is it, really?"

"You were in Evereska," Sand said. "There is a spring, the Shining Springs, we call it. Elves who have lost a limb have regrown the limb after bathing in those healing waters. It cannot hurt, and might actually help, even in such a limited application."

"It all sounds very plausible, and I can make it work." Hideko grinned. "Now all I need is a patient."

As if on cue, the doorbell on the front gate rang, signaling the arrival of Kenji and Yori. Kenji parked and Yori opened the car door, stepping out carefully. Kenji got out as well as Satoshi and Sand hurried to greet them. Kenji looked better, most of his scrapes and bruises faded, and he was not wearing his sling. Yori was pale, and there were slight circles under his eyes, but he was not lost in a drug-induced haze. Sand's heart went out to Yori, reading the signs of pain in his beautiful eyes, but Yori managed a smile that warmed his eyes, and a small nod for Sand.

"You have no idea how delighted we were to get your call," Kenji said, and his smile was more than warm. "I have no idea how you managed this so quickly, but thank you."

Sand bowed slightly. "It really was my pleasure, and the doctor who knows my friend was very interested in having Yori-san participate. It was the doctor who asked to be allowed to send everything to us by overnight courier."

"And it's really possible to start tonight?" Yori asked. "I'm sorry, it just still feels like it's happening so fast. I'm afraid to get my hopes up too much, but I want this to work, even just to lessen the pain."

"Yuji's sister Hideko is here. She's a nurse, and she was completely briefed in how to administer the treatment," Satoshi said. "But first, we'll have dinner and let you both relax a bit after the drive."

Willow and Sora had outdone themselves with the dinner, and Yori was quite amazed at how big Ryuu and Aika had gotten. Hikaru was fascinated by Yori, his bright green eyes following Yori's every move until Vale, slightly embarrassed, nuzzled the little half-elf.

"I'm so sorry, Yori-san. Hikaru is used to visitors, and he's not normally quite so impolite as to stare that hard." Vale's cheeks were faintly pink.

"Please don't apologize, Akira-san. He's very handsome, and I don't think he was being impolite," Yori said. He smiled a little as Vale picked up the chopsticks he was using to feed Hikaru and coaxed the little imp into taking a small bite of grilled fish.

"Thank you," Vale beamed as Hikaru leaned into his arm, munching happily on his fish.

Sand was pleased to see that Yori managed to eat more than he had the other night, although it was more than apparent to Sand that the pain made even eating an ordeal. He caught Hideko's eyes briefly, and saw her concern as well. Sand took a quick breath, and smiling brightly, he launched into a new topic of conversation.

"Do you know, I was very privileged to meet Kohaku-san today?" Sand said, and Yori brightened immediately.

"You did? That's incredible!" Yori enthused, pain forgotten for the moment as he and Satoshi launched into a discussion of Kohaku's latest album and what had been their favorites of all his songs thus far.

Sand interjected a comment or two, but sat back for the most part, watching Yori's face as he and Satoshi laughed together. The potion was as powerful as he could make it, and now all he could do was wait for it to begin working.

Kansas came down to walk his friends out, and they all stopped to greet Hideko, Kenji and Yori respectfully. Kansas apologized for Erion, who had not wanted to come downstairs in his low slung harem pants, but who sent his greetings. Hideko promised to stop upstairs and see Erion before she left, and Kansas beamed, knowing how Erion adored Hideko.

Sand and Satoshi cleared the table once dinner was finished, putting everything in the dishwasher and washing anything that could not go in, Satoshi all but vibrating with nervous excitement.

"This will work, won't it, poldoramin?" Satoshi asked.

Sand nodded. "Yes, cormamin. I have never made one so powerful before. It will work, I am sure of it."

Sand's confidence bolstered Satoshi, and they finished tidying the kitchen with the efficiency of much practice, and returned to the dining room. Vale had already brought out a folder of papers, and was explaining to Kenji and Yori what they were.

"Yori-san, this paper is your agreement to participate in the study. As you can see, you will only be identified by a code number. You are Patient 8-NTR for the study." Vale handed the papers to Yori. "There is a copy that will need your signature, but if you don't have your stamp tonight, you can take this home and we can send it back after the next treatment. The other copy is for you to keep."

Yori and Kenji looked over the agreement, which was full of medical terms but seemed as straightforward as anything like that could be. Yori had brought his signature stamp, and he signed the agreement, his good hand trembling only slightly.

"The other thing that I have for you is a sheet telling you things to watch for, that show that the treatment is working." Vale handed another sheet to Kenji and Yori. "Things like tingling and involuntary movement are a pretty good indicator that the treatment is having an effect. It's also possible that your scars might get pinker and seem to stretch out a bit and then fade a little. The pain should begin to lessen fairly quickly as well. What we saw with Yuji was that they sort of understated what would happen, so as not to build our hopes up. It was a different treatment, to be sure, but I think we can assume that they've understated the benefits here as well."

Yori looked over the papers again with Kenji, and then he looked at Vale. "I'm ready," Yori said, his voice firm and steady. "Let's begin."

Hideko went into the kitchen and scrubbed her hands thoroughly, while Willow and Yuji and Vale gathered up the children and took them upstairs to get ready for bed. Hawk and Sora said their good nights and retired to their own little sitting room, much to Hideko's amusement. Sand and Satoshi spread an immaculate white cotton cloth on the table and began to lay out what Hideko would need. There was the vial of treatment serum, the bottle of vitamin supplement, and the bottle of moisturizing liquid as well as the stack of soft cotton pads. Hideko had brought a box of sterile disposable syringes with her, along with exam gloves and alcohol wipes.

Kenji helped Yori to unbutton the shirt he was wearing, and Yori eased it off the injured arm carefully. Hideko returned, brisk and efficient, and donned exam gloves before opening a syringe and filling it from the vial of clear serum. She swabbed Yori's arm, locating a vein in which to inject the serum, and Yori watched as she gave him the shot, quick and as painless as she could make it. Yori winced slightly, more from the pressure than any actual pain, and Kenji put an arm around him.

"Are you alright, saiai?" Kenji asked tenderly.

Yori managed a smile. "It's not bad, my love." He leaned against Kenji, trembling slightly, and Kenji stroked his good arm.

"Now, Yori-san, I need you to drink this supplement." Hideko was gently brisk, and she handed Yori a glass containing what smelled optimistically like ginger tea. "These are vitamins and minerals to both build you up a bit, and to help the serum to work more efficiently."

"Thank you," Yori said, and took a small sip. Satoshi had done a wonderful job with the base for the potion, but as Sand had feared, there was a slightly bitter taste from the actual potion itself. Hideko noticed immediately when Yori wrinkled his nose a little at the taste.

"If it's too bitter, Yori-san, we can sweeten it with a little honey. That is permitted in the treatment notes I was given." Hideko gestured to her own sheaf of papers.

"It's fine, Hideko-chan," Yori said politely. He drank the full glass of liquid, and Kenji took the empty glass from him and set it on the table.

Hideko was about to prepare the cotton pads to wet down Yori's arm when she heard Yuji, Vale and Willow finishing with the children upstairs. She flashed Sand a look and he nodded.

"I was going to do this now, but it might be better at home." Hideko reached over and helped Yori to pull his shirt back on over the injured arm. "Kenji-san, this is something you can do. Wet these cotton pads thoroughly with this liquid, and cover Yori-san's arm with them. Let them sit for at least fifteen minutes, longer if possible. This will help moisten the area and as the treatment begins to work, it will prevent any dryness and cracking of the skin."

Kenji looked pleased to be able to do something to help, and he tucked the cotton pads and bottle away in the bag Hideko gave him, bowing slightly to her in thanks.

Yori was all buttoned up and leaning against Kenji a little when Vale, Yuji and Willow returned, and Willow went into the kitchen to make fresh tea while Yuji brought out a bottle of whiskey, soda water and tumblers. Vale ducked into the kitchen to help Willow, returning with dishes of fruit and beautiful chocolates, and Willow brought in green tea and black tea.

Kenji accepted a small whiskey, while Vale and Satoshi had larger whiskeys as did Yuji. Willow and Sand opted for tea, and although Sand reassured Yori that he could have one small whiskey without compromising the treatment, Yori decided to stick with tea as well.

They chatted for a while longer, Kenji having some black tea after his small whiskey, and nibbling fruit as well. Sand was watching Yori as discreetly as possible, and while he could not be entirely sure, he was nearly certain that Yori's pain had lessened a little. Yore's beautiful eyes were less shadowed, and he seemed a little more easy when he moved. By the time Kenji and Yori were saying their goodbyes, Sand was convinced that the potion had begun to work already. He watched as Yori opened the car door, sliding in and closing the door himself. Yori was definitely moving easier, and Sand reached for Satoshi's hand, giving him a gentle squeeze as they waved goodbye.

[The Great Sue Hunt]

BW toyed with a few of the souvenirs herself, choosing one or two that might amuse the elves that were her occasional lovers. As she was paying for her trinkets, she noticed a pair of dark-suited men approaching Rae's friend Jonathan. Jonathan began to frown, and one of the men moved closer to him, and that was when all hell broke loose.

Jonathan shoved the man, who staggered backward, clearly not expecting resistance. The second man touched his ear and began to shout, and armed men in military styled fatigues appeared from behind some of the exhibits, converging on Jonathan and the two men.

"Oh, fuck," BW murmured, reaching out to tap Rae on the arm. "Your friend's been spotted."

Rae used a mirror on the souvenir stand to look behind her, in time to see Jonathan break away from the suited men and run directly toward where she and BW were standing, reaching into his pocket as he shoved his way past tourists and exhibitors alike. As he got closer to the emergency exit, and the souvenir table where Rae and BW were browsing, BW could make out a small canister in his hand, an aerosol of some sort.

"Oh, fuck," BW repeated. Rae had administered an antidote before they left Gotham, so BW was not particularly worried about the effect of any spray Jonathan might use. It was simply that BW preferred to draw attention to herself on her terms. However, the way the Hunt was going, she would need to get used to being singled out for all the wrong reasons.

As Jonathan approached the emergency exit, he reached out and sprayed Rae and BW, as well as the unfortunate proprietor of the souvenir stand, who promptly cowered in utter terror and burst into hysterical tears. Jonathan grabbed BW and Rae as the suited men gestured frantically for the armed men to stop and lower their weapons. Obviously, the public relations aspect of having two lovely women shot in the middle of the exhibition was undesirable enough to whoever had ordered Jonathan apprehended to make them call off their dogs. BW wondered briefly if it was Bruce Wayne who was behind this stunt. It seemed likely enough, and it also seemed unlikely that BW would get a chance to ask him over dinner after all.

Both Rae and BW mimed the sort of complete cowering fear that consumed the unfortunate vendor, and let Jonathan drag them through the emergency exit, into a bleak gray-painted hall with bare fluorescent lighting overhead. BW knew from Rae's map that there was a small, almost hidden door that led to the sub basement and a series of tunnels dating back to the good old Atomic days, when the building that predated this convention center boasted of its underground shelter in case of nuclear attack. Judging by the condition of the door, it had been largely forgotten, although someone had recently, and discreetly, oiled both the locking mechanism and the hinges.

Jonathan produced a key, unlocking the door and pushing BW and Rae through and locking the door behind himself as he followed. "That was sooner than I'd hoped," he muttered, distracted. "All the obvious exits from the center will be covered, but this system extends well beyond the parking lots and into the system of storm drains that runs under the Strip. The storm drains themselves are full of squatters, but if we run into any, a little cash will persuade them that they saw nothing."

Rae grinned, digging into her backpack and pulling out a wad of bills. "I've got some persuasion right here."

"Beats the hells out of sewers," BW said with a shrug. "Are we hoping to get lost in the crowds on the Strip?"

Jonathan slipped out of the overall he had been wearing as part of his disguise to reveal what looked remarkably like a valet costume. "I think we might be able to pick up some transportation and get someplace where we'll be less likely to be spotted."

BW chuckled appreciatively. "Lead on."

The three of them ran through the tunnels, some of the lights flickering madly and others out altogether, until they reached another door. Jonathan pulled out his ring of keys and opened this door as well, once again locking it behind them to slow down pursuit. It was obvious to BW that Jonathan had plotted his escape route carefully, and well in advance, and they made it to the exit without encountering another soul. A third door was unlocked to let them climb a flight of stairs, emerging in the service hallway of a Strip hotel. Rae and BW darted out onto the street and mingled with the crowds of tourists, and Jonathan slipped onto a valet station, accepting the keys to a black Escalade from a large man with a flashy blonde on his arm. Jonathan handed the man something which he shoved in his pocket without a glance, and Jonathan slid behind the wheel, pulling out slowly.

Once the man had entered the hotel, Jonathan turned the corner in the Escalade, stopping to let Rae and BW jump in. They took off, just another black SUV in a sea of shiny black SUVs trolling the Strip, and Jonathan stripped off the valet jacket as he maneuvered his way off the Strip and onto the highway. He pulled off at a decrepit, long-closed gas station and pulled around the back, where the three of them abandoned the Escalade in favor of a far less flashy silver Camry.

"Where to now?" BW asked. "They will be tracking us."

"I have an idea," Rae said. "Drive to the nearest wedding chapel."

Both BW and Jonathan looked at Rae with identical expressions of puzzled inquiry.

"If they're tracking us, they're looking for a man with two female hostages who are absolutely terrified." Rae turned to Jonathan. "How long does that gas last?"

"Approximately six hours," Jonathan replied, "in the dosage that was in that aerosol."

Rae nodded. "The two female hostages couldn't possibly recover fast enough to be happily participating in a wedding, could they? So, you and I get married and Bronx is our witness. When they barge in, we have perfect alibis."

Jonathan nodded slowly. "That could work."

BW grinned. She tugged on the ties of her dress, adjusting the hemline, and undid the ponytail confining her silver mane. Rummaging in her purchases, she changed jewelry, and then dove into her purse and located her small pouch of makeup, darkening her eyes with some smoky liner and shadow, and adding a darker shade of lipstick. Rae was busy redoing her own makeup as Jonathan pulled off into the parking lot of one of the ubiquitous wedding chapels that dotted Vegas.

The three conspirators hurried inside, and while Rae and Jonathan set about filling out the necessary paperwork to get married, BW amused herself by purchasing a bouquet for Rae, sweet apricot tea roses and lacy baby's breath tied with pale peach ribbons. BW's purse yielded a slim gold band which she handed to Jonathan with an arched eyebrow.

"You need to put a ring on her hand, lad. You can buy her sparkling things later on," BW said dryly, watching Jonathan's eyes narrow slightly.

The minister brought in his wife as a second witness, for a modest fee, and adjusted the time of their arrival in his books for another slightly less modest fee. That proved to be a wise precaution, for as Rae and Jonathan finished their vows and were in the process of being pronounced man and wife, the door to the chapel burst open and a team of armed men poured in.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand was momentarily startled when Satoshi took his hand, but his fingers laced in with Satoshi's fingers almost of their own accord. Sand was enjoying himself thoroughly, the music loud and exuberant, and Kohaku's obvious admiration of Satoshi's talent warmed Sand's heart. It was still all wonderfully mysterious, these panels and consoles and devices that could separate out the music by voice and instrument, and tease them into perfection and combine them into a whole that was sublime, and Satoshi did his work with a careless ease that astonished Sand. He listened as Satoshi criticized a bit here and there, shaking his head and moaning about how they could ever have let that go, although in truth Sand could detect no flaws.

Satoshi himself was marvelously confident and he came alive when talking about music, joking and teasing Kohaku and arguing playfully with Matsu. Kyou was mostly very quiet, but he watched Satoshi with a sweet reverence, obviously determined to emulate someone he viewed with awe, and Sand could understand why.

Matsu turned to Sand while Satoshi and Kohaku were busy dissecting a riff and discussing how it could have been better. "You came on the perfect day, Masato-san. Kohaku's a great artist, and he only works with Satoshi. Did you know that?"

"I did not," Sand replied, surprised. "I have heard Kohaku's music before, at home and when we have been out for the evening. I have always enjoyed it, especially for dancing." Sand's smile was bright as he thought about Satoshi dancing to some of the songs he was hearing in the studio, slim hips undulating and his face flushed with happiness. "I did not realize that Satoshi was one of the musicians. He is apparently shy about sharing that, even with me."

Kohaku had heard Sand, and he playfully hit Satoshi in the shoulder. "You didn't even tell your husband it was you? You're too fucking shy, Satoshi-san." Kohaku gave a girlish giggle as Satoshi glared at him in mock indignation.

"Keep it up and you'll work twice as hard for your coffee next time, you idiot," Satoshi mock growled.

"Only if it's one of your songs," Kohaku countered, crowing when Satoshi blushed. "Have you ever heard your husband play, Masato-san?" Kohaku gave Sand a sweetly flirtatious look.

Sand's smile was radiant. "I have, Kohaku-san." Sand did not elaborate, but he remembered the song Satoshi had written and played for him at their wedding, a song that Satoshi would only play and sing for Sand, and he sent a small teasing memory of that through their bond. "I should get him to play more often at home for me."

"And speaking of home, it's time we go home." Satoshi began to shut down his equipment, Kyou leaping to help put away microphones and turn off amplifiers in the recording booth. Satoshi's deft efficiency was impressive, his hands moving with total assurance as he made arrangements with Kohaku for the next song they would be working on, Kohaku alternately giggling and moaning about what a slave driver Satoshi was.

Sand and Satoshi went to Satoshi's office to retrieve their shoes, and Sand took advantage of the opportunity to close the door and kiss Satoshi soundly. "Do you have any idea, cormamin, how very sexy you are when you are working? How I kept from ravishing you on the spot is a mystery."

Satoshi blushed furiously, but his smile was radiant. "You're as bad as Kohaku." Sand could feel his pleasure through their bond, and his excitement at how perfect the song was, and he stole a last quick kiss before they headed to Satoshi's car.

As they were driving along, Sand much more relaxed, Satoshi rolled down his window and lit a cigarette. "How's the stuff for Yori coming along?"

Sand brightened. "I have the potion all ready, enough to achieve a substantial improvement. We can start any time he is ready."

"That's perfect," Satoshi said, laughing happily. "I'll call Kenji as soon as we get home, and invite them for dinner so we can talk about when we want to start."

"Oh, and do not forget that you owe Ryuu forty-seven hugs and kisses," Sand grinned. "I attempted to persuade him that it was all my fault, and I should be the one to pay the price, but he informed me that you can tell time, too."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand gave Satoshi a radiant grin. "I was in the neighborhood, and thought I would stop by." He chuckled a little at Satoshi's astonished look. "Actually, Matsu-san invited me to come and see you at work, and I was quite intrigued myself."

"And I'm glad you came, Masato-san," Matsu said, smiling at Sand happily.

Sand bowed to everyone politely. "I am Mori Masato, Satoshi-san's partner."

Kohaku yelped a little. "This is your husband?" He turned to Sand with a bright smile. "So you're the one who stole him away from me!"

"Masato-san, this is Kohako-san, one of our best talents," Matsu said. "So what did you think?"

Sand's smile grew even brighter. "Kohaku-san, you have the voice of an angel. I am honored to meet you."

"I fucking love him," Kohaku laughed. "Satoshi, now I know why you were hiding him."

"Let's hear the playback!" Matsu was all but bouncing with excitement. "Masato-san, I want you to listen to the guitar in particular."

Satoshi flushed and waved a hand at Matsu. "Don't listen to him, just listen to the song as a whole."

Sand nodded, understanding immediately that Satoshi had played the guitar on this song, and he widened his eyes as Satoshi began the playback. Kohaku's voice soared over an incredible range, and Satoshi's guitar provided the perfect counterpoint. Sand's eyes widened, and he listened raptly, losing himself in the gorgeous interplay of voice and guitar, the bass and drums weaving in so seamlessly that they enhanced the delicate dance of voice and strings. By the time the song ended, Sand's lashes were damp with tears from the sheer beauty and power of the song.

"That was just perfect," Sand breathed, feeling his heart soar to be in the presence of such beauty.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

"You are very kind, Matsu-san, but I will be able to get there myself, I am sure," Sand said, unable to keep the excitement out of his voice.

"Wonderful," Matsu replied, equally enthusiastic. "When you arrive, just tell the front desk that you are Mori Masato, and someone will come out to show you the way to Satoshi's studio. I'd come and get you myself, but Satoshi would wonder why I was leaving in the middle of the recording session, especially when it's this particular talent."

"I understand completely, and I look forward to seeing you there. Thank you for this, Matsu-san." Sand hung up the phone, and whirled around to look at Vale. "What do I wear to a recording studio?"

Vale burst out laughing. "Go shower. I'll leave clothes out for you and get you something to eat, since odds are you didn't think about food any more than you did the time."

Sand headed for the stairs, running into Willow on the way. "Oh, vanimaer! We need to talk in private later, about Satoshi's birthday. It is coming soon, and I was thinking he would like a small party. I am happy to arrange for all the food and such things, since I do not want you and Sora fussing instead of enjoying, but I wanted to ask about guests." He gave her a sweet kiss. "But right now, I am invited to the studio to see him work. There is an artist recording one of Satoshi's songs." Sand's face was bright with excitement.

"Go, sweets. We'll talk later, but I think it's a great idea, and Satoshi will love it," Willow said, patting Sand's ass and waving him upstairs. "Go get pretty."

Sand dove into the shower upstairs, lathering his hair with shampoo and washing scrupulously. He scrubbed his teeth, rinsed and muttered a cantrip to dry his hair, and hurried into the bedroom to find clothing laid out neatly on the bed, next to a blond elf with a large grin.

"This is suitable?" Sand asked dubiously. Vale had chosen tight black bootcut jeans, black Western boots, and a button-down shirt in a deep rich blue cotton, with a paler blue t-shirt to wear underneath.

"It's a recording studio, ithilamin," Vale laughed. "Look at the way Satoshi dresses to go to work. You'd look out of place in a suit there, and besides, Satoshi thinks you look hot in tight jeans." Vale rolled off the bed and gave Sand a lazy kiss, still chuckling. "I told Yuji you were going to the studio, and he offered you a ride if you want. Get dressed and go talk to him while you eat."

Sand dressed, and brushed his hair, debating leaving it loose before deciding to pull it back with a thick black elastic into a loose ponytail. Vale had left a light meal out for Sand, some poached salmon, rice and a green salad, and a glass of wine to settle Sand down a bit, as well as a sweet custard with ram berries for dessert. Sand smiled at the food, Vale knowing exactly how to tempt him into taking the time to eat. As Sand was about to sit, Ryuu raced over and flung himself into Sand's arms.

"Tousan! I know chichi had to go to work but someone needs to give me forty-seven hugs and kisses for scaring me by not being there this morning." Ryuu gave Sand a very stern look, and Sand looked very contrite.

"It was really my fault, my dragon." Sand looked at Ryuu seriously. "I was very busy with my work, and I forgot to look at my watch, so maybe it is only fair that I give you all those hugs and kisses. Will you count and keep track for me?"

Ryuu began to giggle as Sand swooped in to kiss one cheek, and announced, "One kiss! Now one hug!"

Sand complied, snuggling Ryuu close, and Ryuu giggled louder. By the time they made it to forty-seven, Ryuu was howling with laughter and Sand was laughing nearly as much. Yuji came over to see what all the merriment was about, and Ryuu waved at Yuji.

"Tousan gived me forty-seven hugs and kisses, so he's all forgived now," Ryuu giggled, sliding off Sand's lap and staggering around dramatically. "I am kissed silly!" Ryuu ran off to find Willow and tell her about being kissed silly, and Yuji sat down with Sand.

"You going to eat?" Yuji asked, grinning.

"Mm, yes," Sand replied, digging in. "Actually, may I ask a favor? Vale mentioned that you might be willing to drive me to Satoshi's studio?"

Yuji nodded, his grin getting wider. "I'd be happy to drive you. In return, I want a full description of Satoshi's expression when he sees you there."

"Done," Sand laughed. "To tell you the truth, I have no idea what it is that Satoshi does at the studio. He does not like me touching his bits and pieces upstairs, and he has never really explained it other than to say that he messes with the equipment to make the artists sound good."

Yuji shook his head, amused. "I don't know if any of it will make sense, but I'll try."

Sand ate while he listened to Yuji, his eyes bright with curiosity. From what Sand gathered, Satoshi set up all the equipment in the studio, inside a soundproofed room where the artist would perform. It could be someone playing an instrument, or someone singing while listening to the music that had been recorded already. Satoshi would be outside the soundproofed room, recording the artist inside, and he would later add that performance to others he had already recorded, and "mix" everything until the song was perfected. It sounded mysterious and intriguing, and Sand found his excitement growing. Sand had heard recordings of music since coming to Tokyo, and found the whole notion fascinating, the preservation of a single, unique performance that could be enjoyed over and over again. The notion that his beloved husband could create such beauty did not surprise Sand, who was all too familiar with Satoshi's perfect soul, but it awed him nonetheless.

Sand grabbed a short leather jacket and slipped his boots on, hurrying out to meet Yuji at the garage. He slid into the passenger seat, fastening his seat belt with a radiant grin as Yuji rolled down the window and lit a cigarette. Yuji drove a bit faster than Satoshi, and he let the occasional swear drop when someone else did something he thought was foolish, but Yuji was in a marvelous mood, and Sand enjoyed the ride and the music that Yuji played.

When they reached the studio, Yuji let Sand out. Mindful of being in public, Sand just waved his thanks, and hurried into the building, totally unaware of the looks he drew, slim and exotically foreign. Sand went up to the front desk, and bowed a little to the receptionist.

"I am Mori Masato. Matsu-sama is expecting me." Sand smiled a little as the receptionist looked briefly startled and then immediately picked up a phone.

"Of course, Mori-sama. I'll have someone come out to escort you back at once." The receptionist spoke softly into the receiver and then smiled. "It will just be a moment, Mori-sama, if you would like to have a seat?"

Sand bowed politely and perched on the edge of a chair, his excitement growing by the moment.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand led Satoshi down to his basement study, where his alchemical workbench was set up. "I really am very pleased that you want to help." Sand lit the glowglobes with a wave, and Satoshi was struck by the absolute tidiness of the area, with the exception of Sand's desk. Like every other desk that Sand used, it was a disaster, a mountain of tomes and scrolls and jumbled notes, all in some sort of order that only Sand understood. Satoshi had begged Sand not to have a desk in their room, since the otherwise Zen simplicity would have been destroyed by the elf's sole foray into chaos.

Satoshi looked over at the tidy workbench, where an array of glass tubing and various flasks and beakers had already been set up. Sand lit a small brazier with a quick cantrip and opened the chest of prepared troll's blood, selecting one of the vials that Vale had marked as being from the young troll. The blackish blood had been reduced to a fine powder and Sand smiled in satisfaction.

"Satoshi, my heart, I am going to put you to work." Sand grabbed a few jars off of the neat shelves, and pulled out an alabaster bowl. He fetched a small silver scoop and a silver paddle. "These are all herbs that are beneficial in one way or another. At least two of them have been found to help reduce dependence on black lotus, which is quite similar to your opium."

Satoshi looked at Sand, his eyes widening. "Morphine, the painkiller that Yori takes, is derived from opium." Satoshi was thrilled that Sand was going to try and help with the withdrawal symptoms as well, and his face showed his happiness. "This is brilliant. Trying to quit morphine is incredibly hard, and some people have died from it."

Sand winced a little, his sympathy for Yori evident. "Then we will make sure that does not happen." Sand turned to the rest of the jars he had assembled. "Some of these are meant to restore vitamins and minerals that Yori has lost. He does not always eat properly, because the pain steals his appetite to a large degree, and the drugs steal what remains."

Satoshi nodded. "So what do I need to do?" He was encouraged by the care Sand was taking with this potion,and the way Sand seemed to think about all of Yori's needs, and his hopes soared a bit. "And how does this work?

"What you are going to do is to take a scoop of each of these and place them in the bowl. The scoop itself is alchemical silver, easily enchanted but also useful because it does not have any properties of its own until enchanted. That means it will not transfer anything to the herbs." Sand watched as Satoshi opened the first jar, and a clean herbal fragrance rose up.

"Then you will add two scoops of this liquid, and make a thick paste." Sand handed Satoshi a flask with a thick clear liquid that shimmered a little. "This is a healing base that will enhance the effect of the herbs."

"And what do we do with the paste?" Satoshi asked, increasingly curious. This was a kind of magic that seemed understandable, mixing herbs and ingredients so that they would enhance each other and be more effective.

Sand gestured at his array of glass piping and flasks and beakers. "I am going to start by reconstituting this prepared troll's blood. Vale and Yuji were lucky enough to slay a young troll. Their blood is much better for potions of this sort, since they regenerate even faster than adult trolls. Once I have turned this back into a liquid, I will heat it and distill it quickly to remove any remaining impurities. Then we will distill it again, running it through the paste you are making. The heat of the troll's blood solution will release the beneficial oils from the herbs."

Satoshi nodded. This was sounding like a cross between cooking and chemistry, and although Satoshi did not particularly like chemistry, he was willing to make an effort for Yori's sake, and Kenji's as well. "So we run the blood through the herbs. And then?"

"We do it again, a total of five times." Sand smiled at Satoshi's look of astonishment. "Alchemy is a process that requires patience, cormamin. No amount of magic can rush this process. What we are left with then is the essence of the potion."

"The essence?" Satoshi was engrossed by Sand's explanation so far. Most of the magic he had seen, including Sand's healing potions, seemed to be designed to do things in a hurry, but this was so different. This was painstaking and time-consuming.

"Yes," Sand replied, delighted by Satoshi's curiosity. Vale usually fled at the first sign of potion making, although Sand really could not blame Vale, after the vile things he had been asked to drink. "Normally, I would add the entire essence to a base and have the individual consume the entire thing. But, we do not want to tip our hand here, and so I will only add a portion of the essence to a base. The effects will be minimal, but the good thing is that I will add a small enhancement of my own before the potion is finished."

"What is that?" Satoshi asked. The potion already sounded too good to be true, as far as he was concerned.

Sand smiled, his face lighting up. "I intend to add a permanency spell to the potion. This way, each additional dose will build on the ones before it, and Yori will regrow both nerves and tissue slowly."

Satoshi's face lit up as well. "So it won't be this big overwhelming healing all at once. He'll have time to adjust between treatments, and get used to regaining any use of his arm."

"Exactly, cormamin. I was thinking about what you told me, about the healing my mother did for you, and how it has been so much to adjust to all at once." Sand leaned in and kissed Satoshi very tenderly. "I do not think we thought that through with you, and I am sorry. But we will do better with Yori."

"No, don't be sorry," Satoshi said, pulling Sand in for another kiss. "I have you to help me adjust, so it's not bad, really. But it would be harder for Yori, so this is good."

"I will need your help with what might be the hardest part of this for me," Sand said, cupping Satoshi's face sweetly.

Satoshi's eyes widened again. He looked so adorably startled that Sand could not help but nibble another kiss.

"How can I help if it's hard for you?" Satoshi asked, when Sand let him breathe again.

Sand actually blushed. "It is the base. Mine tend to taste, well, utterly dreadful, to be very honest."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale rose and fell on Yuji's cock almost languidly, the long muscles of his thighs working smoothly and his eyes hooded as Yuji's cock slid over his prostate. Yuji's thick cock filled him thoroughly each time he sank down, and Vale moaned with pleasure as he ground down, feeling Yuji's balls snug against his ass.

"You feel so good," Vale murmured. "I love this. I love you, I love being owned by you."

Vale leaned forward until his pierced nipples were rubbing against Yuji as he pushed back against Yuji's cock, his silky hair falling over his shoulders to tickle against Yuji's skin. Yuji's hands slid up along the sides of Vale's ribs, feeling the sleek muscle under the golden skin as he looked into Vale's eyes, seeing the joy and love in those sparkling depths. Yuji tangled his fingers into the wealth of emerald streaked hair, pulling Vale into a sweet and tender kiss, nibbling the elf's kiss-swollen lips as he let Vale love him. Yuji could feel himself growing closer to another orgasm, his balls tingling a bit and Vale moved a little faster as he sensed his husband's increasing urgency.

"My wanton, beautiful husband," Yuji murmured as he nibbled kisses along Vale's jaw and throat, licking the livid mark on Vale's pulse point. It never ceased to amaze Yuji how Vale loved to be marked so visibly, and flaunted the sign of Yuji's claim on him with such nonchalance. And now Vale was grinding his own hard cock between their flat bellies as he drove himself onto Yuji's cock with increasing fervor. Yuji moaned, devouring Vale's mouth in another heated kiss and Vale mewled into the kiss as his balls tightened, his cum spilling out onto Yuji's belly, his ass clamped around Yuji's cock. Yuji groaned, his own balls jumping, and he emptied another load of cum into Vale's tight ass, his arms wrapping around his elf as their lips met again.

Utterly spent and entirely blissful, Vale sank forward onto Yuji's chest, nuzzling Yuji as his breathing slowed. "I'm taking you hunting more often," Vale laughed, his joy washing over Yuji.

"You do this a lot, do you?" Yuji teased, stroking Vale's smooth back.

"Oh, yes," Vale said. "Trolls, orcs, bugbears, giant spiders. There's a lot to hunt if you know where to look."

Yuji helped Vale ease himself off Yuji's softening cock, and Vale mewled a little at the loss, making Yuji chuckle. "You're insatiable. You're worse than Willow."

"You're addicting," Vale countered, grinning. "I can't get enough of you as it is, and then you have to go and be all hot and sexy and kill a troll for me. What do you expect?" Vale rummaged among their discarded clothing, finding his belt pouch and pulling out the bag of holding with their meal from Beredir. "I'm starving."

Yuji just laughed, shaking his head as Vale unpacked a substantial meal. Beredir had provided perfectly grilled salmon, fresh bread, rice, fruit and both tea and wine, and Yuji's stomach growled at the sight of the food. Vale sprawled out on his stomach on the mossy ground, still naked, and ate heartily, washing down his meal with wine. Yuji pulled on his boxers, still a little hesitant about someone coming across them, and then he ate as well. They washed quickly in a small stream, and dressed, stealing kisses from each other the whole time, and Vale teleported them back to the Cloaktower.

Kersta was waiting in Vale's office with a chest containing the prepared troll's blood and a small cask. Vale's arm had been around Yuji for the teleportation, and he left it there as Kersta greeted them.

"Vale, Master Yuji, everything is ready as you requested. Nestus saw to the preparation himself, with Nathe's assistance." Kersta smiled, shy again now that they were back in the Cloaktower. "Nathe wanted to know if you wanted to portal from here."

Vale looked at Yuji with a grin. "I think we'll walk home and travel from there. I have to give Beredir back his basket, and we left our things at the house anyway. Tell Nathe I'll see him next tenday for paperwork."

Kersta smiled in response, ducking her head a little, and Vale and Yuji sauntered out, Vale's arm never leaving Yuji's waist.

The streets of Neverwinter were quiet as they made their way back to the house, and Vale sighed a little as they headed down to the basement armory to change.

"Do you miss Neverwinter?" Yuji asked, wondering what had made Vale sigh quite like that.

Vale looked a little surprised, and then began to laugh. "Oh, no, a'maelamin, it's not Neverwinter I miss. But I am going to miss the sight of you in mithral mail. Did I tell you that you're too fucking sexy in armor?"

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale moaned as Yuji breached him, pushing back against Yuji's cock, wanting to be filled and taken as hard as Yuji could take him. The punishing pace that Yuji set was perfect, and Vale screamed as Yuji slammed into his prostate, Vale's cock jumping a little.

"Own me," Vale managed to gasp, slamming back against Yuji's cock and howling. Vale writhed as Yuji continued to slam into his ass, feeling how close Yuji was through their wide open bond. Vale shoved back again, wanting to feel Yuji come, needing to feel that heat inside him.

Yuji could feel Vale's urgency, and the heat in his own belly was building. "Take me," Yuji groaned. "I can't hold on." Yuji felt his balls draw up, and Vale clenched his ass around Yuji's cock with a needy moan. That last bit of pressure finished Yuji, and his balls emptied almost painfully as he filled Vale's ass with his cum, one hand fisting in Vale's thick hair and tugging hard as Vale screamed in ecstasy, grinding his ass back into Yuji's groin.

Yuji yanked hard on Vale's hair, dragging the elf upright and latching on to one sensitive ear as Vale tightened his ass around Yuji's softening cock. Yuji reached under Vale's tunic, finding a nipple ring and tugging on it twisting it sharply, and Vale retaliated by tightening his ass again, feeling Yuji beginning to harden all over again.

"You are my little cockwhore," Yuji growled, and Vale moaned as he clenched around Yuji's cock again, grinding down at the same time. "You want more?"

"Yes," Vale managed. "You haven't quite owned me yet."

Yuji snarled as he ground back against his elf's ass. He found himself getting harder as Vale ground down, hot and eager, Vale's cock hard and aching. Yuji shoved Vale forward again, looking at that pert ass, one cheek slightly reddened still, and he wrapped his hands around Vale's slim hips.

"You want to be owned, do you?" Yuji rasped. He withdrew, amazed at how hard he was again, but Vale had that effect on him. Yuji could not get enough of Vale like this, fierce and powerful, and yet the sweetly submissive side of Vale was just as intoxicating.

Vale mewled, trying to buck back onto Yuji's cock, wanting to feel that hard length splitting him in two as Yuji took him. "Do it," Vale growled back, precum dripping from his aching cock.

Yuji slammed forward again, pounding Vale's prostate and making Vale scream once again, his back arching. Vale reared up, Yuji's arm wrapping around his waist, and the elf ground down hard, moaning and turning his head to demand a kiss as Yuji punished his ass all over again. Yuji's free hand dropped to Vale's cock, and he wrapped his long musician's fingers around it and stroked.

"Fuck, not fair," Vale gasped. "I'm so close."

Yuji chuckled darkly, his breath hot against Vale's ear. "You wanted to be owned."

Vale just groaned, his balls so hard and tight that they hurt, and he howled as he felt himself give way to his orgasm, his cum arching out in such strong spurts that they spattered against the trees in front of him. His ass clamped down on Yuji's cock like a vise, and Yuji howled as well, slamming into Vale's prostate as the elf writhed in his grip.

"Fuck!" Vale screamed, grinding down on Yuji's cock, all but snarling as he shivered through the last of his orgasm.

Yuji let Vale sink forward, shifting his grip to his elf's hips, slamming into that tight ass as Vale moaned in a delirium of pleasure. Yuji kept thrusting, surprised to feel the heat building in his own belly again, but the hunt had wound him to a fever pitch, and watching Vale channel raw magic like that made him half crazy with desire. Vale arched as Yuji pounded his prostate, his ass still clenching spasmodically, and Yuji groaned as he came a second time, his cum spilling into Vale's ass and all his muscles trembling.

Yuji shuddered and eased forward, pushing Vale down and collapsing on top of his elf, still buried balls deep in that sweet ass, the two of them gasping as their hearts pounded in perfect harmony.

[The Great Sue Hunt]

BW looked at Rae, smiling warmly at the younger woman. "You look perfect, and that top is gorgeous." BW ran a hand through her hair. "Now I need to get ready to have dinner with dear Bruce, and provide sufficient distraction to let you do what you need to do. You go find your friend, and leave Mr. Wayne in my capable hands."

Rae grinned and gathered what she needed while BW considered how to morph her clothing to allow for a sufficient amount of distraction while remaining elegant and polished. She decided to take a stroll through the hotel's shops to see what was being sold in this 'verse, and maybe get a few ideas. Then Rae laid a slim hand on BW's arm.

"Why don't you come with me? Bruce doesn't want me wandering around alone, and if you're with me, I'm not alone, am I?" Rae's eyes glinted with mischief.

BW grinned as she looked at her friend. "Oh, that sounds like a lot more fun than wandering around window shopping. Of course, if your friend is anywhere, he's wherever the dispersal unit is, probably within touching distance."

Rae looked at BW speculatively. "What makes you say that?"

"Because he's far too bright. Everyone will assume that he'll stay away, keep his distance and work out some unorthoox way to get to the unit." BW shrugged. "I favor the easiest approach. No one is looking at the people who are in the same room, because presumably they're all cleared and trusted. If I wanted to get close to something, that's the route I'd take."

Rae frowned. "That'll make it a little harder to get to him."

"Unless he knows you're coming, in which case he'll get to you." BW grinned. "Rae, we're Authors. Granted, we're not here to warp canon like a bunch of Sues but you'd think we could at least write ourselves a shortcut or two, rather like a programmer's back door."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale and Kersta let fly with simultaneous streams of fireballs, and Nestus conjured up a sword that swooped in to attack the troll from behind. The troll screamed and stood, rising to nearly nine feet in height, its small reddish eyes searching for its assailants. Yuji, his hands as steady as if he were in his own living room, fired a bolt that slammed into the troll's chest and burst into flames. Yuji immediately realized that the only thing that smelled worse than a troll was a burning troll, but he immediately reset the crossbow and loaded another bolt. Vale tossed a vitriolic sphere at the troll, the acid eating into the troll's rubbery skin, and Kersta loosed a powerful fireburst. Nestus growled something, and black tentacles rose out of the ground to grapple the troll, and Yuji sank his next bolt squarely between the troll's eyes.

'Perfect," Vale shouted and he darted forward as the troll slowly fell over. Vale whipped out his dagger and sliced into the troll's arm, catching the thick blackish blood in an empty flask. Vale was filling a second flask when they heard crashing from across the clearing, and Vale immediately darted back into the trees, capping the second flask as he ran, lithe and golden.

Yuji relaxed as Vale reached the cover of the forest, only seconds before another troll burst into the clearing. Yuji had reloaded, and he had a clear shot at the troll so he fired, the bolt lodging in the troll's throat. Kestra grinned and dropped an acid fog around the troll as Vale conjured a flight of flaming arrows that bit into the troll. Nestus summoned up more tentacles, and Yuji fired a second bolt, another clean head shot, and Vale whooped in excitement and flung his arms around Yuji.

"I'm bringing you on more hunts!" Vale laughed, and darted back out to collect more blood. He filled another two flasks, and was just straightening up to return to the trees when a small troll darted out into the clearing and flung itself at Vale. Kersta immediately enveloped Vale in a shimmering ball of protective energy, while Nestus ran out into the clearing, shouting loudly to draw the troll's attention.

Yuji felt his blood run cold as the troll ignored Nestus, aiming straight for Vale. Yuji lifted his crossbow, holding his breath as he took careful aim and fired off the bolt. Vale was swearing as he shot a stream of fire at the young troll, sure that he was in for a good bruising, when the bolt sank into the troll's eye, dropping it instantly. Vale proceeded to bleed the young troll immediately, collecting three flasks that he marked with a elven letter. This time he fell back fast, standing next to Yuji.

"There might be another," Vale murmured. "I've got more than enough blood, and we need to burn the bodies to ash. We'll give it a moment and see if any more emerge."

More than anything, Yuji wanted to drop the crossbow, crash his lips into Vale's and kiss him breathless in thanks for his not being hurt, and then shake him until his teeth chattered for scaring Yuji like that. Instead, Yuji nodded and reloaded the crossbow, his eyes focused on the clearing and his ears alert for any sound.

When no more trolls appeared, Vale whistled and nodded to the pair from the Cloaktower. Vale muttered and a flaming cloud enveloped the clearing, Kersta and Nestus casting the same spell as well. The heat from the fire was intense, and Yuji wondered why the trees did not also burst into flame until he realized that Vale and his fellow mages has been that precise in their casting. Yuji shook his head a little as the flames died out. Nestus stepped into the clearing, and turned back with a grin.

"All ash, Vale. We're done here." Nestus came over to Vale and held out a pouch, which Vale filled with the flasks of troll's blood.

"Get these back to the Tower and have them processed immediately," Vale said. "Yuji and I have a few other things to do before we go back. Oh, and did the cask come in from Evereska for me?"

"It did," Kersta confirmed.

"Good. Have that and this blood waiting when I get beck." Vale watched as the Cloaktower mages teleported away, before turning to Yuji, his green eyes nearly black with love and desire. "That troll would have been on me if not for that shot of yours. You saved me from a nasty mauling." Vale's fingers were already undoing his dagger belt, and he let it drop to the soft ground. "Fuck me, Yuji."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale looked at Yuji, just before they went into the Cloaktower. "You want to practice a few shots? We can stop at the training grounds first."

"I think that's a good idea, so I can get a feel for this crossbow," Yuji agreed. Vale led him into a spacious room with sand covered floors, containing practice dummies and archery butts. There were a few people in Cloaktower robes using the room, and several greeted Vale cheerfully.

Vale stopped to grab a dozen plain bolts from a table, and led Yuji to an archery butt. "You're going to want to keep back, and this is about a fair distance. Your actual target is going to be bigger than these, so if you can consistently hit this target, you'll have no trouble in the field."

"Let's see how I do," Yuji said and cocked the crossbow, taking a bolt from Vale. The cocking mechanism worked smoothly, and when Yuji had sighted, the crossbow fired with almost no kick, and he grinned fiercely as the bolt sank into one of the middle rings of the target.

"Nice," Vale said, his grin just as fierce. This side of Vale was one that Yuji saw only rarely, and it struck him that Vale was incredibly arousing when he was in hunter mode.

Yuji went through the dozen bolts, and by the last one he was consistently sinking the bolt almost dead center. He turned around to find a tall human watching him.

"Very nice," the human said. "I'm Nestus, one of Vale's Guard. I'll be joining you on the hunt, along with Kersta." He nodded his head at a slender woman who was talking earnestly to Vale.

"Yuji." The Japanese man stuck out a hand. "I'm Vale's husband."

Nestus's face broke out into a grin. "Congratulations, a little late. Vale's been much happier since you came into his life, and I for one appreciate it."

"You appreciate me not chewing your ass off for taking stupid risks three times a tenday," Vale said, but his voice held laughter as he turned to Yuji. "Nestus is a damned good wizard and fast with a blade. He and Kersta work together regularly. She's very good at pulling his ass out of the messes he gets into."

The slender woman smiled at Yuji shyly. "Pleased to meet you, Master Yuji."

"Shall we go hunting?" Vale said, and the sheer delight in his voice made Yuji's groin tighten once again as they headed upstairs to where the portal awaited.

The Neverwinter Wood was quiet when they emerged from the portal. Nestus lifted his head, alert, and then gestured toward the west. Vale sniffed and nodded, and Yuji sniffed as well, detecting a stench like rotting flesh. He looked at Vale and Vale leaned in to whisper, "That's the stink of our quarry."

Kersta murmured something softly, and then smiled at Yuji shyly. "Some protections for us all."

Vale led the way, moving with his usual elven grace and silence, his green eyes bright as he watched the wood. The stench grew stronger as they traveled, until they reached a small clearing. The carcass of a deer lay on the ground, and hunched over it was something that looked like a slick green boil. Filthy talons clawed into the carcass as the troll ripped off hunks of meat and shoved them into its fanged maw. Yuji looked at it, his eyes wide, as Vale gestured for them to fall back a bit.

"Spells from us and Yuji, you fire as fast as you can. Head shots are brilliant, but with those flaming bolts, any shot counts." Vale leaned in and kissed Yuji. "I promise. No dying, no getting hurt. We both go home in one piece."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand watched Kenji and Yori for a moment, seeing the boundless love between them, and he reached out for Satoshi's left hand, stroking the braided wedding ring gently. Sand knew, as surely as he had known he would be able to save Hawk, that he could help Yori, but this was harder. He could not do it all at once, and the slow pace was both frustrating and heartbreaking. Sand know, though, that Satoshi was right, and Yori needed the gradual pace to learn to live without the pain that had plagued him for so long, to learn how to live with two arms again, and at least it would be a joyful journey for both Yori and Kenji.

"This will work, Kenji-san. Please believe me. Yori will live painfree, and he will regain some use of his arm." Sand let his utter confidence show in his voice. "I would not offer false hope, and hurt you both more. I have come to consider you a friend as well as my sensei, and I have grown very fond of Yori. It is a privilege to be able to offer any help that I can."

"I would do anything to have him back, without the pain and the constant need for medication," Kenji admitted, still gently caressing his young lover.

"Then I will make all the arrangements, and I will let you know when the first treatment can take place." Sand looked at Satoshi with a gentle smile. "But now, I believe Satoshi and I have a date with a small dragon."

Satoshi laughed, his eyes bright. "A small dragon with a very big roar when we forget him."

Kenji laughed a little, the hope in his eyes making Sand yearn to begin working on the potion. "I've heard that roar, and I won't keep you. Will you forgive me if I don't get up?"

Satoshi stood and went over to Kenji to embrace his uncle carefully. "Take care of yourselves, and don't worry. We completely understand. Give Yori our love when he wakes."

Sand also gave Kenji a brief embrace, and he and Satoshi went back to their car. As they drove slowly through the gate of Kenji's estate, Satoshi sighed a little.

"What is it, cormamin?" Sand asked, instantly concerned.

"Can we really do this? Can we help Yori?" Satoshi flicked a quick glance at Sand. "I know the magic works, but we're not doing it the way you usually do. Are the little doses enough?"

Sand smiled a little. "You used to be so wary of my magic, a'mael. But yes, it will still work. I'm adjusting the potency of the potion to compensate for that, and the doses will work cumulatively. Each dose will relieve more pain, and regenerate the nerves and tissue a little more." Sand frowned slightly. "The tricky part, and the reason I want water from the Shining Springs, is that regrowing nerves is quite painful in and of itself. I do believe that applying pads soaking in the healing waters will alleviate that pain, since elves that have undergone regeneration in the Springs did not report pain like those who have used a potion based on troll's blood."

"This sounds like it'll work, poldoramin." Satoshi concentrated on the road for a moment, maneuvering deftly around a breakdown. "So now all we need is troll's blood."

Sand chuckled. "Vale and Yuji are taking care of that part. Vale has been restless, and needs to hunt." He shot Satoshi a quick glance. "You have hunted with Vale, and you know how he comes alive when he is freed from restraint."

Satoshi shivered a little but nodded. "Alright, so I'll stop worrying since you've got it under control. Now for the big question. What movie are we taking Ryuu to?"

Sand started to laugh, loving the bright humor in Satoshi's eyes as Satoshi flashed him a quick grin. Traffic eased a bit and Satoshi lit a cigarette, rolling the window down and humming a little as he drove along.

Sand flipped open his laptop and went through the movie listings online. "What about Rango? I think that will amuse him, and we can take him for dinner afterward at that little cafe he likes. We could even bring home ice creams for everyone and have dessert at home."

"Perfect!" Satoshi said, loving Sand even more for his devotion to Ryuu.

Ryuu was thrilled by the plans, and tugged his fathers to the car eagerly. When they had left, Yuji turned to Willow.

"I think Vale and I are going to grab dinner in Neverwinter tonight. Are you okay with the kids?" Yuji asked.

Willow waved at him abstractedly. "Erion and Kansas will give me a hand, and Hawk and Sora will be home. I'll order takeout for us." She frowned at her laptop and began to type, engrossed once again in her writing.

Yuji and Vale stepped through the portal, arriving in their Neverwinter home, and Vale made a beeline for the basement and Sand's armory, tugging Yuji with him. Vale's green eyes were bright with excitement, and Yuji shook his head with a chuckle.

"Right, troll hunting. There's a couple of things you need to know." Vale opened the door to the armory and lit the glowglobe with a wave. "Trolls are roughly nine feet tall, and the ones we're hunting, forest trolls, have green skin and grey-black hair, nasty fangs and talons that can shred ordinary armor." Vale pulled out a soft green leather tunic and a pair of reinforced leather breeches and tossed them to Yuji.

"Nine feet tall?" Yuji asked, looking at Vale wide-eyed.

"Oh, yes. Some are bigger, some are smaller, but that's a good average. They hunch over, so they don't look quite as tall, but don't let that fool you. They're a lot quicker than they look, too." Vale sounded almost gleeful as he pulled out a mithral chainmail tunic and tossed that to Yuji as well. Yuji was surprised at the lightness of the mail, but Vale looked pleased. He selected a belt, boots and thin leather gloves in green and added those to Yuji's pile.

"Nice. Big, ugly and fast," Yuji said, looking at the armor. "How hard are they to kill?"

"Tough as shit," Vale said happily. "They regenerate, which means they're constantly healing. If you cut off an arm, they can actually start growing one back in the middle of battle." Yuji paled slightly, but Vale continued in the same cheerful tone. "Even better, there's always a chance that the severed arm will regenerate into a new troll as well."

"So how the fuck do we kill them?" Yuji asked.

Vale pulled out a set of robes, examining them with a look of satisfaction. "Two things keep them from regenerating. Fire and acid. How good is your aim?"

Slightly startled, Yuji responded without thinking. "Damned good."

Vale had turned his attention to the weapons racks in the armory, and he pulled out a beautifully crafted crossbow. "This should do nicely." Vale grabbed several bundles of bolts, a belt quiver and a long dagger with curious runnels down the blade. "Fuck, where did he put my daggers? Oh! Got them!" Vale unhooked a belt with two sheathed daggers.

Yuji watched as Vale peeled off his t-shirt and kicked off his boots. Vale's jeans and boxers were next, and Yuji raised an eyebrow. Vale shrugged as he pulled on his light wool breeches, lacing them deftly. "These fit better without the boxers." Vale's cheeks were faintly pink as he pulled on his tunic and then added the short battle robe that fell to mid thigh. Tall doeskin boots were next, and Vale buckled on his daggers.

In the meantime, Yuji had stripped as well, leaving his tight boxers on before pulling on the leather breeches. Vale reached over and laced them for Yuji with a grin, stealing a fast kiss.

"Where's your armor?" Yuji asked as he pulled on the green leather tunic. Vale helped him settle the mithral mail over his head, and used the belt to tighten it properly.

"My robes are heavily enchanted," Vale explained. "Any kind of armor interferes with my spellcasting, but Sand is extremely good at adding enchantments to robes as well as to armor and weapons. These robes are nearly as much protection as your mail."

Yuji pulled on his boots, relieved to hear that Vale was protected. The thin leather gloves felt like butter against his skin, smooth and silky. "So, how do we do this?"

Vale handed Yuji the crossbow. "This is fairly simple to use. You set it with this lever, lay a bolt here, aim and fire. It takes a moment to reset it for each bolt, but this one operates smoothly. I've picked bolts that are enchanted to burst into flame when they hit a target, which is what we want to deal with these trolls. If for any reason one gets close, which shouldn't happen, this dagger has a stone in the grip that you can press to release acid along the runnels."

Vale hooked the quiver on Yuji's belt and watched as Yuji sheathed the dagger. He leaned in for one hungry kiss and then pulled away with a grin. "I was thinking we should grab a picnic basket form Beredir. After we've killed a couple of trolls and gotten Sand's blood, we could have a bite to eat." Vale's cheeks were definitely pink as he looked at Yuji, his green eyes dark with desire.

[BronxWench's Review Replies]

Prompt: Frittle "Interlude"

From Squishy:

That last line made me snortgiggle very loudly XD;; I loved this little fic.

Thank you! It's tricky sometimes to write humor, but if I made you snortgiggle, then I'm happy!

From JayDee:

"shellfish, dipped in batter and fried in oil" I wants me one of those fritters. Normally I only see various fruit or occasionally corned beef fritters. Give the assassin his perceptive due - I could your Wraith and Alistair using food in such a manner. Heh.

A fine prompt in the ancient tradition of protest by art I think. I may be mistaken or simply reading too much into it...

Well, if Wraith and Alistair hadn't thought about using food like that, they are now...

And yes! This was most assuredly protest by art!

From bloodravyn:

lol

I have nothing to do with it. I'm merely the author, and my characters hijacked me!

[BronxWench's Review Replies]

Prompt: Embrocation "Drakes and Discoveries"

From bloodravyn:

lol, sexy!

Thank you!

From JayDee:

Heh, thanks to not having played the first of the many definitions for "drakes" to come to mind was a male duck. I had this mental image from the title and the end of the first paragraph of Alistair being savaged by ducks having led to the slumping. Then I mentally applied dragon/drake connection and probably had a more sensible image of dragon involvement. Thought I'd share that...

They're pretty lucky actually, re-using Morrigan's mix in that manner - A lot of the real world liniment/sports equivilents would add a somewhat unpleasant sensation to the genitals based on some "sex gone wrong" threads I've read. Good thing she didn't design it specially in case they mis-used it

Joking aside, it really feels like their relationship has an even newer intensity now, with wonderful lines like "but one look in Alistair's green-gold eyes had Wraith forgetting the burn altogether as he rose and fell," and the very end. Every time you write these two coupling you have a new little angle, or detail, or emotional resonance... it's great stuff!

Somehow, I can see Alistair being savaged by ducks...

And yes, had Morrigan thought they would reuse her mix as a lube, she would definitely have made sure they lived to regret it! I do have a few male friends who have had run-ins of the dreadful kind with unpleasant substances, and for a brief few moments actually hoped not to live to tell about it...

And as always, thank you!