[The final ball!]

Vale wanted to look into Yuji's beautiful eyes, but he did not want to push too hard. He gestured to the bartender to match Yuji's double whiskey for himself. "You're right, I didn't finish, and so you've won that game as well." His voice was low and musical. "Don't plan on getting devastatingly drunk tonight. I want as much time with you as I can have."

As they returned to the table, Willow asked Vale to sit beside Yuji, and the elf's green eyes lit up. "As you desire, Lady Willow. It is my pleasure." He risked a quick glance at Yuji. He would have to steal some private time later, to see how Yuji felt about his plan to arrange for a portal to Japan.

[The final ball!]

Sand escorted Samantha to the table where Anesor and her party were seated. He knew Casavir would also endeavor to make the young woman feel at home. "My lady, may I present Lady Anesor and her escorts, Casavir and Bishop. Lady Samantha is awaiting the Lady Teilau, if I am not mistaken, and knows few here." He held out a chair for Samantha, and seated himself so that he could lean over and speak to her easily from the adjoining table.

[The final ball!]

"Oh, you are hardly a social outcast," Sand said warmly. "My Wench is most liberal and does not begrudge me time away from her side, so please do not worry on my account. Still, I do think we are being called to dinner. May I escort you? I believe I see some seats open at the table next to ours. This way, we will each know we have a friend at hand." Sand stood and offered Samantha his arm with a graceful bow.

[The final ball!]

Wench took Anesor's hands in hers, smiling warmly. "You look radiant tonight, and oh, my, Casavir and Bishop, your kilts are perfect! You both look most elegant. Can I show you to a table?"

Wench led Anesor and her escorts to a table next to hers. "This way we can chatter all night while we dine. My elves are about somewhere, but they should be returning shortly. I believe Sand is keeping Samantha company. She is quite shy, and without her friend here, he thought she might feel awkward. Vale is at the bar, I believe."

A servant walked over to see if Anesor and her party required drinks or anything else prior to dinner being served.

[The final ball!]

Sand merely smiled sweetly at Samantha. "Oh, my dear lady, you need not worry that I will laugh. Where I am from, such things are known to happen as well. We also have people who carry demonic blood, known as tieflings. I do not know if he will appear tonight, but Lady Nastrandir travels with a tiefling, a striking man with elegant scars and a lively sense of humor."

[The final ball!]

Vale smiled at Willow. "It is my pleasure to bring you your champagne, Lady Willow." He walked off with Yuji towards the bar, his cheeks slightly rosy.

"I'll have whatever you're having," Vale told Yuji. He grinned suddenly. "I don't think we'll be able to play our whiskey game tonight, though." He touched Yuji's sleeve lightly. "You look very handsome tonight."

Wench watched her elf out of the corner of her eye, smiling as she saw the telltale blush on Vale's cheeks. Yuji was making him very happy, and Wench was was happy for them both. She looked in the other direction for a moment, pleased to see Sand drawing Samantha into conversation. The shy woman was very beautiful, even more so when she was animated and talking with Sand. She saw Sand look at Henry briefly, the diamonds in his braids sparkling in the soft light. Wench was proud of both her elves this evening.

[The final ball!]

Sand smiled at Samantha. "My lady, I have nothing I would rather be doing aside from keeping you company until your friend arrives. Unless you would prefer to have some solitude? But I do assure you, this is a pleasure for me to speak with someone who does not look oddly at me for being both an elf and a magic user." Sand chuckled. "I do believe that Henry, the rather serious looking fellow in the suit over there, thinks me hopelessly frivolous."

[The final ball!]

Sand nodded in understanding. "There are countries on my world that have similar customs, where women are carefully hidden away like rare gems." He smiled and gestured for more shrimp for Samantha to nibble. "If you will pardon an foolish elf, it seems wrong not to let such gems sparkle in the sun. But it is not polite to say such things about the customs of others, and so I am indeed a foolish elf."

[The final ball!]

Vale walked over to Willow and bowed with his usual grace. "Lady Willow, I'm pleased to make your acquaintance. My Wench asks me to tell you that this is indeed your table, and we'll be joining you shortly. If there's anything you require, just ask." He smiled as he bowed again, and he snuck a sidelong glance at Yuji, unable to wrest his eyes away from the beautiful man.

[The final ball!]

Sand murmured a few words in a lilting language, and smiled at Samantha. "It is a minor spell, but will stabilize your form for a full day, my lady. It will dispel itself after that, but for tonight, at least, you need not worry." He led Samantha to a corner where she could sit, and fetched her a glass of fine Champagne.

"You asked where I am from," Sand said, sitting opposite her, his blue eyes warm. "I come from a world called Toril, rather like this one in many ways. On my world, magic is common, as I suspect it is on yours. I would suspect you come from a most intriguing place as well."

[The final ball!]

Wench smiled happily at Willow. "And here I was going to apologize for my elves, for monopolizing your lovely friends all week!" She embraced Willow gently. "Your dress is divine, absolutely lovely. And perhaps we can sit at the same table for the meal?"

Vale blushed again as he heard Yuji's response, and his knees went momentarily wobbly. His smile, however, was incandescent. "I look forward to it," he murmured just as softly.

[The final ball!]

Sand noted the brief transformation in Samantha, and he leaned closer to speak quietly. "It is possible for me to cast a small magic to prevent you from shapeshifting, my lady. You have only to ask." He waved at a servant, and speaking in a normal tone, he indicated the tray the man was carrying. "These small pastries are quite good, as are these lovely shrimp."

[The final ball!]

Vale saw Yuji coming up the stairs arm in arm with Willow, the two imps right behind them, and his smile got brighter. He knew Yuji would need to serve as Willow's escort, and he knew he had no claim on Yuji, but Vale still hoped for a chance to talk with Yuji, or maybe dance something sweet and slow. It would happen if it was meant to, Vale was sure.

Sand gestured toward the food circulating around. "Shall we find something pleasing to eat?" he suggested, offering his arm to Samantha. "At least until your friend gets here."

[The final ball!]

Wench took Samantha's hands and greeted her warmly. "You had an entry in the sand castle competition, a beautiful castle. I'm so glad you came for the ball!" Wench waved at her elves. "If you need any assistance, Sand and Vale would be pleased to help."

Sand bowed, his black hair falling forward and the diamonds in his braids winking. "A pleasure, my lady. I am at your disposal should you require."

[The final ball!]

Wench chuckled as Apollo greeted her. "I'm lucky I could find these two most of the time," she said wryly. "Fortunately, your lovely kilted men were very kind and entertained me." She gave T a mischievous grin.

Vale looked around the room, and Sand leaned in close to murmur, "Looking for your Yuji?" Vale blushed crimson. "When you get back to the Guild, have them work on opening a portal to this Prime. You are on the Council, my sun, take advantage of that for once."

"And you wouldn't be angry, my moon?" Vale asked, his cheeks still blazing.

"You did not begrudge me my genasi," Sand replied with a shrug. "We have centuries ahead of us yet. Indulge yourself now."

[The final ball!]

Flanked by her handsome elves, Wench walked down the stairs to the main hall, holding out her hands to Apollo and Pittwitch as she entered.

"Hello, my loves! Everything looks so marvelous!" Wench looked at Charlie. "Quite the wizard," she murmured.

[The final ball!]

Vale looked radiant as he burst into his room, and Wench smiled at him. "Just in time, my sorcerer. Judging by your face, it was a good night. I'm pleased."

Sand wrapped his lover in a close embrace. "I am as well, my sun."

"I wish we could take him with us," Vale laughed. "Let's get ready. I want to look wonderful tonight!"

They showered quickly, and Sand used one of his useful cantrips to dry their hair. The elves dressed in their matching black silk kilts, with a subtle brocade woven into the fabric. They both wore tall black leather boots and black silk poet shirts with diamond clasps at the throat. Sand wove diamonds into his braids, and helped Vale to arrange his wavy blond hair into an artfully tousled look.

Wench had dressed as well. Her Gown looked like a dream, and her shoes were perfect, She added Earrings and studs, but wore no other jewelry. Her white hair tumbled over her shoulders, and she applied subtle makeup to enhance her brown eyes and high cheekbones. A touch of gloss on her lips, and a light scent, and she was ready.

"You both look good enough to devour," Wench said, looking at her handsome elves. "How do I look?"

"Oh, Wench, you know you look magnificent," Sand laughed. "Fishing for compliments?"

"She wants K to sweep her away for a dance," Vale teased.

"I do not think he stands a chance," Sand replied. "But T was so much sweeter, was he not?"

"And what if I want to dance with my elves? Or are your dance cards already full?" Wench laughed as Vale blushed.

[The final ball!]

Vale came slowly out of reverie, enjoying the warmth of Yuji in his arms. He was only mildly surprised to see that Yuji was awake, and he gave him a sleepy smile.

"Good morning, Yuji." Vale turned his face to give the man a gentle kiss. "I think I slept longer than I expected." His green eyes were warm and loving. "I need to hurry and get ready for the ball tonight, but I almost don't want to move."

Vale noticed the door was ajar, and chuckled softly. "It looks as though your companions need to get ready as well." He stole another gentle kiss. "I will carry this night in my heart, always, my wonderful lover."

Vale slid out of the bed and put his kilt on, and gathered up his boots and shirt. "Dance with me tonight," he added mischievously as he slipped out the door.

[The final ball!]

Wench looked at Apollo, beaming. "The decorations are marvelous, and I love the sit-down dinner. Henry has everything under control with the food, so I think we're in great shape."

As Anesor came in, Wench hurried over to give her a hug. "I'm so glad you like everything. It's going to be fabulous tonight, and I can't wait to see your handsome men all dressed up. And speaking of which, I've lost one of mine. Again!"

Sand arched an eyebrow and grinned. "For once, dear Wench, it is not me."

[The final ball!]

Wench was in the kitchen already, coffee firmly in hand, as she and Henry went over the details of the menu she had planned.

"Do you think we need to list the side dishes as well, or just have them offered around?" Wench asked. "I think the menu is long enough, and I don't want to intimidate people."

"What were you planning for side dishes, Miss Wench?" Henry asked in his grave voice.

Wench took a sip of the delicious coffee. "I thought they should be simple, don't you agree? Perhaps a saffron rice, some fingerling potatoes, and do we have any of those lovely French green beans? The thin and tender ones?"

"Of course, Miss Wench." Henry made a small note in his meticulous handwriting. At least the menu was easily managed, unlike Miss Wench's elves, with their penchant for drinking odd things and the kilts they deserted everywhere. Henry looked up briefly and suppressed a shudder as one of those very elves sauntered into the kitchen and began to fix himself a cup of tea.

[Day 6: Fishbones!]

"I promise, Yuji. I will walk in this memory and you will live in my heart, as beautiful as you are this moment." Vale did not know if Yuji heard him, but he held the man close as he slipped into reverie.

[Day 6: Fishbones!]

"Yuji, Yuji," Vale murmured, loving the sound of the name, and wanting to please this wonderful man. "I want to see you." He eased Yuji onto his back, kissing him with increasing urgency. He wet his fingers with saliva and used one finger to breach the tight muscle between Yuji's nether cheeks, nibbling that full lower lip and moaning as his aching erection bumped the man's hard belly. Vale kissed the golden skin of Yuji's chest, reaching down to add a second finger as he continued to scissor a little.

Vale curled his fingers, stroking Yuji's prostate, the pleasure further relaxing his tight sphincter. Vale continued to work the tight muscle, not wanting to cause any pain with his own girth. He looked and spotted the lube, using a small amount to slick himself, and then he poised himself between Yuji's legs. Vale pressed the head of his cock past the tight ring of muscle and paused, looking deeply into Yuji's perfect eyes before continuing to press in, slowly, letting him adjust to the intrusion. Vale finally seated himself fully, and he leaned forward to kiss Yuji again, in gratitude for this amazing night.

Vale knew he would not last long, as aroused as he had been all night, but he wanted to make sure Yuji got as much pleasure from this as he could. Vale angled himself carefully as he withdrew, making sure to glide over Yuji's prostate as he thrust forward smoothly and slowly, drawing out the pleasure for them both. It was still not long before Vale felt his balls tighten and draw up, and he whispered to Yuji, "I'm so close. I'm going to come, now." Vale thrust another time, and he groaned as he felt his entire body convulse, his ejaculation erupting from him as he buried himself in the velvet heat of his lover. His back stiiffened, and all he could do was whisper Yuji's name as he finished.

Still shuddering from the force of his orgasm, Vale eased himself gently out of Yuji, taking care to slide slowly past the tight ring of muscle. He curled up beside the man, and wrapped his arms around him. "This was the most wonderful date." He kissed Yuji gently. "May I sleep here, beside you tonight?"

[Day 6: Fishbones!]

Vale stroked his hands over Yuji's face, wishing he could see those perfect eyes, but knowing how much this cost the private man to admit. "Yes," he whispered just as softly, "take me, spill in me, and then I will take you, and I will make it wonderful."

Yuji nearly sobbed in gratitude at Vale's understanding, and he began to move again, in that deliciously slow way that made Vale writhe beneath him in ecstacy. Vale's hands slid through Yuji's hair to find his ears, stroking them and tweaking them enough to get Yuji's attention without being outright painful. Vale was teasing those ears like he would another elf, and it thrilled Vale to share this with Yuji. Vale's hips were bucking now, rising up to meet his lover's thrusts, and he moaned as Yuji slid over his prostate, white light exploding behind his eyes for a moment. Vale flexed his inner walls, tightening around Yuji to increase the pressure and pleasure for the man, and Vale pulled him into another burning kiss, nibbling his full lower lip gently as he continued the ear play.

[The final ball!]

Dinner for The Week's End Ball

First Course:

Goat Cheese Medallions

Roasted Olives with Fennel and Lemon

French Bread Baguettes

Second Course:

Cold Cucumber Soup

Shrimp Cocktail

Third Course:

Caesar Salad

Fourth Course:

Champagne Grapefruit Sorbet

Fifth Course:

Butter Poached Lobster Tails with Caviar Mousse and Dijon Mustard Sauce

Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Blackberry-Wine Sauce

Pepper-Wine Beef Tenderloin

Sixth Course:

Individual cheese plates with Triple Cream Brie, Stilton and Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese, Fresh Figs and Hazelnuts

Seventh Course:

Molten Chocolate Tart

Cheesecake with Fresh Strawberry Conserves

Fleur de Sel Caramels

[Day 6: Fishbones!]

Vale pulled Yuji closer to him, burying his long fingers in the silky black hair, claiming his full lips in a fierce and wanton kiss. He finally broke for air and kissed and licked his way along Yuji"s jaw to his ear, tracing it with his hot tongue and nipping it sharply enough to make the man groan.

One hand slid down, dipping between them to slide inside Yuji's jeans, and Vale drew Yuji's hard cock free, his thumb circling the head and smearing precum over the slit. "I want to taste you," Vale murmured, pushing Yuji onto his back so the elf could tug off the tight jeans. Vale's breath was hot on Yuji's thighs, his long hair falling forward to tickle the man as he worked the jeans down and off, careful not to damage them. The he reared up again for another ear nip before he fell on Yuji's nipples, suckling one and teasing it with his teeth while he rolled the other between his thumb and forefinger.

Vale trailed kisses across Yuji's marvelously sculpted stomach, tracing the lines of his chiseled abs with his tongue until he reached the thick cock he longed to taste. Vale swirled his tongue around the head, flicking across the sensitive cleft on the underside, and then lowering his lips over that glorious cock, his flattened tongue pressing along the underside as he let the head bump the back of his throat. Vale let his throat relax, and swallowed Yuji, humming a little to send a vibration rushing through the man. Vale's cheeks hollowed as he sucked, pulling back as slowly as he dared before releasing Yuji with a pop.

"I want you," Vale said, his eyes almost glowing. "I want to take you in me, now."