• 1-Double Dipped

Double Dipped

Chapter one:

May Day

Sunlight streamed into the
pet shop on a balmy day. Lord D paused and stood still watching his son as he
sat in a rocking chair by the window sewing a blanket made from Arcadian velvet
that Andy had delivered during her last visit to the shop. Quiet seemed to hang
about D as he rocked gently back and forth with the sun shining around him
giving him the distinct appearance of a halo. Chris was settled in his new room
and happily showing his newly acquired “Older” furniture to Bikky. This
weekend; both of the boys were staying at the shop while Leon, Ryo, Dee and
Jill were on a long stake out. D paused and placed his hand on his tummy before
he smiled to himself and picked up his cooling cup of tea.

Lord D sighed and went to
join his son. JJ had been with Diana on a special FBI case leaving Lord D to
mull over how he would explain his situation to his son. As his father sat, D
looked up and smiled. He had long since noted the ring his father had been
wearing for over a week now, but had said nothing. Count D understood his
father’s need for his privacy. “That is a lovely color,” Lord D said of the
deep maroon that D was steadily working his needle through.

“Yes, Andy was kind enough
to bring me baskets of cloth.” D said with a grin willing to wait for his
father to get around to telling him about his engagement ring. D sat his work
aside and sat idle twirling his own wedding set on his finger drawing his
father’s attention to the sparkling jewels. Lord D sighed; his son was very...
perceptive… “Father,” D said and rested his hand on his round tummy. “You don’t
have to say anything… I know.” D said his eyes bored into his father's with a
gentle intensity that belied his youth. “Believe me, I know.”

“I love him,” Lord D
confessed with a heartfelt yet slightly defeated sigh. “So much sometimes I am
frightened.” Lord D said and placed his hand near D’s. “You are far braver than
I could ever be.”

D smiled and gently
touched the back of his father's hand. “Sometimes it takes the most courage to
admit that you are afraid.” D sipped his tea and looked at the clock to assure
himself that it was time for the boys to have lunch. “Leon wants us
to wait for him to return before you perform my checkup.” D said no more and
stood to his feet marveling that it was getting difficult to do so without
using the arm rest for support. Lord D followed his son into the kitchen and
watched him as he went about preparing food. Lord D did not have the heart to
tell his son that he was starting to waddle, albeit gracefully.

Lord D stood in the kitchen and enjoyed the quiet moments with his son as he
prepared lunch for the young children. Watching his son’s obvious contentment,
Lord D smiled and said, “JJ
has asked me to participate in a western ceremony similar to the one you held...
A... Wedding.” Lord D’s words were quiet he smiled and waited for D’s response.
Lord D looked up chagrined to see D munching on a bowl of chilled sweet rice
while his afternoon soup boiled on the stove.

“I figured as much,” D
said and smiled now hoping to alleviate some of his father’s embarrassment.
“That is the purpose of an engagement ring.” D said before refilling his bowl. Lord
D took a moment to look down at the visible proof of his announcement and
smiled. Lord D was amazed at how much food was vanishing. “I am happy for you
father, I am glad that you have found happiness. You more than deserve it.” D
placed another fork full in his mouth and went into the refrigerator coming out
with several Kiwi fruits that he skinned and ate. “I love these, they are so
tasty. I wish we had some lemons to go with them.” Lord D smiled and went to a
paper bag on the counter. Leon
had brought them over and left them because D had been having tart cravings for
a week now. D smiled brightly and peeled the lemon as if it were and orange and
ate it in sections. Lord D grimaced and sipped his tea vowing not to watch his
son eat.

Break

JJ followed Diana into a
restaurant and watched as their suspect completed their deal digging a deeper
hole for themselves. JJ sighed and remembered the look of ecstasy that had
crossed Lord D’s face the night before. He was so beautiful he looked like a
doll and… And he loved JJ, really truly loved him. The thought brought a silly
smile to JJ’s face. “You’d better be careful,” Diana smirked when she noted
that JJ was not paying attention to their job at hand. Usually when he had that
sappy smile on his face, he was thinking of Lord D.

“Be careful…?” JJ asked
confusion clearly marking a path across his features.

“Yes, careful, you’ll end
up in Leon’s
predicament. Impending father hood,” Diana snickered.

“Come on,” JJ scoffed and
waved away Diana's laughter. “Lord D is a man…” JJ trailed off and blushed at
Diana’s knowing look. D was a man and he was five months today. “D-Chan tried
to explain it to me once, it is the amount of love shared by the couple for
each other, it has to be equally reciprocated on both sides and a life can be
created by the love shared, not the act of love itself,” JJ said slowly as if
explaining it to himself and not Diana. Diana said nothing and stood to follow
the criminal when he had left. JJ sighed and left with her.

Break

Lord D smiled when the
chime sounded above the pet shop door and a new customer walked in. The man was
well groomed with sandy blond hair and deep green eyes. His smile was open and
attractive inviting Lord D to return the expression. “I am Count D and this is
my family’s pet shop. We specialize in all manner of creature from house cats
to lizards. What would you like?” Lord D folded his hands in front of him and
waited for the customer to say something. Lord D was not upset at being stared at, it was a common occurrence with people who had never
seen him before.

“Tell me, do you own the
shop, I noticed you said family,” The man said, Lord D frowned slightly. “Oh
excuse my rudeness, I am Daemian Luce, I just came to town not too long ago. I
was hoping you would have an exotic pet, something extremely rare. I love to
travel the orient and I was told your pet shop would have exactly what I was
looking for.”

“Well Mr. Luce, why don’t
you tell me exactly what type of pet from the orient you are looking for and I
will know if I can help you.” Lord D said pleasantly ignoring the slight chills
that crept up his spine as the gentleman smiled at him.

“You’ll do nicely,” Mr.
Luce said and reached for Lord D’s hand. Lord D snatched away from him. “Come
now, don’t you recognize me. Well this is a fairly new body, that damned prince
destroyed my last one. I just came here because I want my toy back. I do not
like when things are taken from me. I’ll take you as collateral until he is
returned to me.”

Lord D backed away from
the man intending to turn into a condor and leave the shop and soar out of his
reach. But he would be leaving D vulnerable. Lord D frowned, he could not do
that. Daemian… Daemian… Dae. Lord D’s eyes widened as he grew terrified
standing in the presence of the demon. His powers were nothing compared to the
fiend.

“I do not wish to awaken
your child; he is not involved in this. I want you…and your father can deal
with the loss, or give me what I want. You see it’s simple,” Dae said with a
careless demeanor and a bright smile. It was so beautiful that Lord D found it
quite nauseating. “Give me what I want, and I will go away.” Dae said his smile
turning chilling as he edged closer to Lord D backing him against a wall. “Do
you know where your father is keeping Hamanosuke?” Dae asked and trailed a hand
through Lord D’s hair. Lord D shook his head wide eyed with fright. “Well,
he’ll just have to bring him to me…that is, if he wants you returned to him
unharmed.”

“You won’t touch me?” Lord
D asked backing away.

 Dae pulled Lord D closer and sniffed him
closing his eyes in pleasure. “That depends on how long I am in your presence, you are very
beautiful, and I can only be expected to control myself for so long.” Dae said
and snatched Lord D to him and in the blink of an eye, only animals and a
sealed envelope on the counter remained.

Chapter 2:

Ulterior Motives

Leon crept into the pet shop and looked
around wondering where D and Lord D were. He had dropped Chris off at Ryo and Dee’s and hoped to spend some quality time with D, not to
mention that he wanted to be present for D’s checkup. Leon frowned,
where was Lord D? Leon
scanned the shop and noted the envelope on the counter and picked it up. He saw
the squiggly writing and figured that Lord D had left a note for D in Kanji
again. With a smile Leon
headed for his bedroom.

Sofu was panicking,
something was defiantly not right with his son, and Aurora was not here to take
his place and keep watch over D. Sofu fluttered back and forth before he left
D’s side, hoping that it would be safe to leave him for a while, the menace he
had felt in the shop was now gone, but so was his son. Sofu ground his teeth
and began to stomp down the hall. He nearly collided with Leon. “When did
you get here?” Leon
asked staring at the angry Kami warily.

“That is not important,
have you seen my son?” Sofu said and sighed as he felt D awaken. Sofu frowned
at the envelope in Leon’s
hand before D opened his door with a sleepy smile.

“Grandfather, I thought I
heard you,” D left the room and leaned into Leon for a kiss. “Is something
wrong?” D asked when his grandfather still frowned at him.

“Did your father mention
plans for today?” Sofu asked D who shook his head. “As I expected, he would not
leave your side when you are scheduled for your five month checkup.” Sofu
continued to frown at the envelope that Leon held. “What is that you have
there?” He asked.

“Oh yeah,” Leon said
sheepishly and blushed to have forgotten the letter from the one they were
wondering about, but then again, D did that to him. Leon handed over the letter and
watched as Sofu ripped the seal and began to read. Leon took a step back at the anger
that covered Sofu’s face.

“Grandfather?” D began but
was silent as Sofu looked up. D backed away as well never having seen his
grandfather so angry.

“I have to go, call the
Arcadians and alert them that Dae is active and that he has my son.” Sofu
stalked to the door and paused as he saw JJ standing in the hallway in shock.
He had left Diana early and was looking forward to spending time with his love;
he had missed him these past few days that he had worked so diligently and… had
he heard Sofu D correctly?

“What do you mean he has
him?” JJ asked not wanting to believe that something as horrendous as before
could possibly be happening again.

“Just what I said, he does
not appreciate me alleviating him of his pet, and so he will trade my child for
Hamanosuke.” Sofu said bitterly, he held up his wrist and looked at a large
black marble that hung there. “It is a trap I am sure, but I can not leave him
in the clutches of that fiend.” Sofu said and turned to leave the shop. D stood
sobbing clutching Leon who took out his cell phone and called High Prince
Nestoir. JJ was silent as he left the shop to follow Sofu. “What are you
doing?” Sofu said when he noticed JJ.

“I am coming with you,
it’s my love he has and I have a few choice words I would like to say…” JJ
glowered and wondered how he had caught up with Sofu D.

“The letter expressly said
I was to approach as any man would, so I figured he does not want me to use any
of my powers. That is how I know that somewhere, there is a trap, you should
not come, it could become dangerous.”

“My life is D-Chan’s,” was
all JJ said as he followed Sofu D.

Break

Lord D sat on the bed and
curled up as far into himself as he could. True to his word Dae was behaving
himself. He sat across the hotel room eating lunch and every so often he would
look up and smile. Dae stood and Lord D scooted back to the wall far away from
him. Dae touched the bed and Lord D gasped as the wall was suddenly no longer
behind him and he found himself at the edge of the bed with Dae between his
spread legs. Dae lifted a lock of Lord D’s hair and brought it to his nose. “I
can see why my pet was so fascinated by you. You are doing nothing but sitting
and yet I find myself wanting you.”

“Please, don’t,” Lord D
sighed and backed away ignoring the pain as Dae continued to hold on to his
hair. Dae laughed and pulled Lord D’s left hand forward and yanked him into his
arms.

“That detective you are
allowing to touch you… He gave you this,” Dae said fondling the ring on Lord
D’s hand. “It amuses me, the human proclivity to mark things as their
belongings; because in essence that is what this is you belong to him.” Dae
said.

“I am a willing
possession,” Lord D. “I was not taken, I gave myself to him.”

“Yes, willingness to love
is something that humans’ value,” Dae said and gathered Lord D close. He could
the revulsion in Lord D’s body and smiled. “Why do you not push me away? I seem
to recall your son giving Hama-
quite a hard time when he tried to force him. Is it that you don’t want to,
which would make me happy, because I realllllllyyyy…..” Dae licked his lips and
rubbed his nose against Lord D’s hair and neck, “want to get to know you. Or
are you not pushing me away, because you can’t? You have no self defense skills
do you? Don’t bother to deny it, if you did, I would not be able to do this.”
Dae dropped his hand to Lord D’s lap and groped him rudely.

“No!” Lord D yelled and
shoved hard against Dae. Lord D brought his legs up and kicked against Dae’s
chest before he scooted back to the wall and brought his legs up against his
chest and huddled shivering. He would not be forced, and he would not submit.
He could not use his powers to defend himself and yet he would try to keep this
monster from touching him. “My father will return your…Pet, I beg you, not to
touch…” Lord D gasped and clutched his middle doubling over in pain.

“Interesting,” Dae mused
as Lord D pulled a vial from his sleeve and drank it. He leaned weakly against
the wall and panted blinking the tears from his eyes. “Very interesting, it is
more than physical with you and the detective, you love each other.” Lord D
nodded. “Then why are you not allowing your body to…”

“It is necessary,” Lord D
said and winced as a residual cramp caused him to gasp.

“Lie down, that can’t be
comfortable, I won’t touch you as yet,” Dae assured Lord D and helped him to
lie back on the bed.

Break

JJ stared at the hotel and
frowned, was Sofu keeping the villain that had treated his son so cruelly in a
hotel? “No, this is where he has my son,” Sofu answered reading JJ’s confusion.

“But you did not go get…
How will we get D-Chan back?” JJ asked panic clawing its way  up his spine leaving him trembling
with barely controlled anger. Sofu said nothing and marched to the elevator. He
saw that a button with no number marked on it was already lit up.

“So it begins,” Sofu said
softly and waited. “Tell me, did you notice anything about our whereabouts?”
Sofu asked just wondering what manner of man would make his way into his son’s
heart.

“Well if you are asking if
I noticed that this is the same hotel that D was taken to last time and that
the building had been completely destroyed and somehow now stands again; yes I
noticed. But I don’t care about any of that now; I just want my darling
returned to me.” JJ said quickly when he felt the elevator begin to move. Sofu
smiled, it seemed the young mortal was quite the detective after all.

Break

Leon was afraid. He could not remember
being this afraid of anything in his life. Ryo and Dee sat on the couch looking
just as afraid as he felt. Leon
clutched D to him and felt a tremor rack his body. “Honey… Maybe you should try
to calm down...” Nestoir tried but backed away when Andy turned her glare to
him. “I love you,” He said quickly when she frowned darkly.

“What does he hope to
accomplish? Surely this is not all just to reclaim that two bit, half-human,
soulless, bastard?” Andy ground out, “he has another motive I am sure,
something smells rotten.”

“Yes very rotten indeed,”
Daphnus said. He had been silently contemplating the situation, “Dae knows we
will get involved.”

“But,” Andy said softly,
“there is something that Dae does not know that we could use to our
advantage…I’m not pregnant anymore. As far as Dae knows, I should be nine
months along now, won’t he be surprised when I rip him apart.” Andy said and
smiled It was a chilling smile that reminded Leon of why he had been afraid in
the first place.

Break

The door to the elevator
opened and JJ sprang foreword not bothering to stop and wait for Sofu D. He
would have to grab Lord D before Dae realized that they did not have Hamanosuke
with them. “Welcome,” JJ startled at the words of the man who appeared standing
beside him. JJ stared into the hotel room and gasped to see Lord D lying in
bed. It looked as if her were sleeping. “He is sleeping now; I have not drugged
or molested him.” Sofu lashed a delicate hand out but found it went through Dae
as if he were made of air. “Now, now, now, we mustn’t be violent.” Dae scolded
and appeared sitting beside Lord D on the bed.

JJ cringed when Dae ran
his hand over Lord D’s tummy. “Interesting species…, you Kami, I know of the
cliché ‘all you need is love’, but I never really saw proof of it until now.”
Dae said and undid the buttons of Lord D’s Cheongsam. Lord D awakened and
grasped Dae’s hands trying to push them away from him.

“You said you wouldn’t,”
Lord D sat up and scooted away from Dae. JJ tried to walk forward but Sofu
grabbed him.

“My son can not see or
hear us, my very presence should have wakened him, I
was speaking loud and clear to him.” Sofu said as he grew murderously angry as
Dae’s hands grabbed Lord D where he could despite Lord D’s frantically trying
to stop him. Dae pressed his lips to Lord D’s and howled as Lord D sank his
teeth into the tongue that had tried to invade his mouth. Dae winced as Lord D’s
sharp nails raked over his arms and Lord D kicked his feet trying his best to
Keep Dae away from him.

“I warned you I could only
behave for so long, you are too beautiful for your own good.” Dae spat the
blood from his bleeding tongue into a handkerchief that he tossed aside. Lord D
managed to kick Dae in the groin then gasped as it did not have the desired
effect. Dae glowered thunderously and raised his hand to strike.

“I have what you want… now
return my son to me.” Sofu said louder than anyone had ever heard him speak
before. JJ gasped at the outright lie, only the two of them were present.

Sofu held up the large
marble that had been hanging from a golden chain on his right wrist. Dae sat up
away from a struggling D who wheezed and wiped tears from his face before he
began to re-do the buttons on his clothing. Dae appeared beside Sofu and held
out his hand. Sofu snatched it out of his reach. “My son?”

Dae frowned and sighed
before he sneered at JJ, “You may retrieve him.” JJ ran forward and was pleased
to see the happiness light Lord D’s eyes as he saw him and stood from the bed.
JJ gathered Lord D close and never wanted to let him go. Once JJ returned to
Sofu D’s side carrying Lord D in his arms, Sofu released the marble cautiously.

“We are done,” Sofu said
and turned to leave.

“I think not,” Dae said
and shook the marble before he threw it to the bed. JJ gasped as Hamanosuke sat
on the bed glaring at Sofu. “Reparations must be made.”

“I thought that was my
reasoning,” Sofu said calmly as he moved putting himself in front of JJ and
Lord D.

Hama stood from the bed growling, “How
dare you! Get your filthy hands off of what’s mine,” Hama yelled at JJ. JJ allowed Lord D’s feet
to touch the floor and pushed him behind.

“What’s yours?” JJ snarled
the words and allowed his rage free reign. “He is not an object to be owned! He
does not belong to you. He is a wonderfully loving individual and you… You
filthy bastard! What you did to him...” JJ tried to hold them back but tears
gathered in his eyes as he marched forward with his fists raised. “You feel
like a big man picking on someone who can’t fight back, well how about you try
to pick on me?” Hama
frowned at JJ and then turned a saucy smile at Dae who rolled his eyes and JJ
felt himself falling backwards to slam against a wall. Lord D ran to his aid.

“You have what you want,
why are trying to keep us here, I feel my exits are blocked.” Sofu said in a
deceptively calm voice. JJ stood to his feet and Lord D was glad to have his
healing powers restored. He had feared depletion after he had fixed Leon’s wounds. “So, now what?” Sofu asked.

Dae smiled and sat perched
on a chair, “now, we wait.” Was all he said, Sofu sighed and sat across from
him. “A lesson needs to be learned here, I do not like it when my pets are
obsessed with anything other than pleasing me.” Dae sniffed and glared at Hama who too busy staring
at Lord D to note Dae’s anger.

“That sounds lovely, but
that is not your complete motive,” Sofu said keeping an eye on his son and JJ
who sat on the bed. JJ made sure that Lord D was firmly behind him.

“You are smart,” Dae
smiled beautifully before he stood and walked over to Sofu and picked up a
dainty hand to admire the fine bones and perfectly manicured nails. “As I
understand it, all you need to get a child of a Kami is love, so if I make a
Kami fall in love with me…”

“That love has to be
reciprocated on both sides, something you are not capable of, and it is rare
for a male to bear a child among the Kami.” Sofu said and snatched his hand
away Dae and suppressed a shiver his touch had caused.

Dae pouted, “Oh, but I am
sure I can learn to love someone who is devoted to me, and I know you have
already bore a child, it would be as nothing for you to carry another.”

“Your true motive was
never my son, or Hama,”
Sofu said and stood to his feet backing away from Dae. “Your true motive…Was
me.”

Break

Leon sat in the silver car and thought
he had never seen anything scarier than the High Princess of Arcadia when she
was this angry. She sat with her eyes glowing silver and every now and then Leon swore he
heard her growl. Daphnus had suggested that Nestoir control his wife, Nestoir
had shaken his head and backed away palms up. As they pulled up to the hotel
the car slowed. The car had not come to a complete stop before Andy stomped out
and headed for the doors of the very hotel they had destroyed only five months
ago.

Break

Dae grasped Sofu D’s hips
and pulled him forward. Sofu tried to exert his will over Dae and gasped to
realize just how powerful the demon was. Dae sniffed Sofu as a hound would and
smiled. “You have never known the touch of a man. Don’t worry; I’ll be gentle.”

“Release me, fiend,” Sofu
ground out. Dae winced and backed away from Sofu and stared down at his singed
skin. Lord D stared in horror at the beast that harbored carnal desire for his
father. Hama frowned, this whole time, he had been the prisoner of this man,
planning to wreak vengeance when his lover came for him only to find out that
Dae wanted the Kami for himself. Dae growled and stormed forward on to have
Sofu raise his hands and a strong wind blew him back.

“Fight me all you like, I
know you Kami, and I will weather the storm, soon you’ll tire and then you will
be mine.”

“You may yet force my
body, but you will never touch my heart and you will never get a child.” Sofu
said bitterly and went to sit beside his son and folded his arms.

“If you are so confident
in your ability to not love me, then why not try it,” Dae said trying a
different tactic.

“I have never desired to
be touched by men and that will not change now, my heart is also otherwise
engaged.” Sofu said smirking at Dae making his rage boil. Dae raised his hand
and Lord D felt himself being pulled forward. JJ grabbed Lord D’s waist and
refused to let go. They both found themselves in the middle of the floor at
Dae’s feet. Lord D’s Eyes widened and he gasped in pain and clutched his
middle.

“You bastard what are you
doing to him?” JJ yelled and held Lord D in his arms.

“I…perhaps, young man, you
should ask yourself that question,” Dae said and sat back at his table as if he
had not been enraged two minutes prior. Sofu knelt beside his son and pulled a
vial from his sleeve and fed it to him.

“Are you alright darling?”
JJ asked wiping the sweat from Lord D’s brow.

“I thought your kind were
against abort…” Dae began to speak.

“Silent fowl beast,” Sofu
demanded when Lord D was able to sit up again.

“Please Jemi-Chan, try to understand, I am not saying no, just not
now,” Lord D said and clasped JJ’s hand to his chest.

“How dare you!” Hama yelled and stomped
forward with his hand raised to strike Lord D. Sofu stood and blew him back. “I
loved you! I allowed you into my home…,”

“And after he was in your
home how was his devotion repaid?” Sofu D ground the words through clenched
teeth at Hamanosuke. His words were all the more deadly in that they were uttered
quietly. Sofu’s body quivered with rage. He waved a hand and a mirror like
object appeared before them all. “Is this love?”

“Father! Please!” Lord D
sobbed and hid his face from the image. JJ thought his heart had stopped as he
saw Lord D standing before his father. Sofu moved his mass of hair aside and JJ
saw the damage that Hama-
had inflicted. “I think I’m going to be ill.” Lord D said before he gasped and
covered his mouth. “

Hama- stared at the picture of Lord D
and offered a trembling smile. “I…I loved you… I did, and sometimes I could not
control my temper but… I did love you.” Hama-
looked at JJ then back to Lord D his anguish making
him confused as to the rejection of his love. “ I love
you so much. How dare you give him a…”

“The back of your hand is
not love,” JJ growled before he paused… Give him a what? “Darling…are you…?”
Lord D hung his head and tears dropped onto their joined hands before he
nodded.

“I am carrying, my body is trying to accommodate, but I have been
taking herbs to stop it.” Lord D said tearfully.

“You do not a want a child
from him, this man you so love enough to…” Hama could not finish the bitter thought.

“You know nothing of what
you speak!” Lord D said to Hama
tears falling in a free succession down his pale cheeks, before he turned to
see JJ staring at him with a hurt look on his face. “Jemi-Chan
please understand. My child, D,  is five
months along, if I accommodated now, when his time came I would be four months
myself, I will need my strength to get him through this, I am not saying no to
our child just…not yet,” JJ was still dumbfounded.

“You’re… carrying…” JJ
finally managed. Sofu smiled glad his son had finally admitted the truth not
only to himself but to the man he loved. Lord D nodded and gasped as JJ kissed
him deeply and held him tightly. “I never thought to have a child, you are
truly remarkable.”

“How endearing,” Hama snarled, he would
have said more but Dae stood and smiled.

“You may want to hold on
to something, the Arcadians have arrived.” Dae said calmly and sipped his tea.
“Count D the elder,” Sofu looked up and frowned at Dae. “Are you sure you would
rather not come to me now, I don’t give up you know. I will have you.” Sofu
said nothing and turned his back to Dae who laughed. JJ held Lord D as the
floor shook underneath them and the building began to vibrate with energy. Sofu
got to his knees and held his son with JJ together they would protect him.

Break

Andy walked to the
building and did not stop to open the door. Leon jumped back as she marched
through with enough forceful energy that the door was blown clean off its
hinges. Lightening danced around the edges of the fragmented door frame. “Isn’t
she lovely when she’s pissed?” Nestoir asked and walked in behind her.

“More like scary,” Dee grumbled as he, the other Detectives and the royalty
walked in behind them.

Chapter 3:

Home Again

Dae felt a threatening
presence moments before the door burst in on itself and shattered into a
thousand pieces. Dae stood and gasped as he got a good look at High Princess
Andromache. “Your Highness,” He greeted coldly to hide the fear that tried to
creep up his spine. She said nothing, just stood and glowered at him.

“Prince Angel,” She said
pleasantly belying the look of rage on her face. “Encase them,” she commanded.
Angel bowed his golden head before he opened his hand and a shining orb
appeared. JJ held tight to Lord D as it seemed they were floating. He looked
around and saw that a crystal encasement surrounded them. Sofu smiles, glad
that he had been left out of the Orb. “YOU!” Andy said low to Dae. “You filthy
bastard, how dare you?” Leon
had stepped into the room and backed away when lightning sparked around her and
bounced off the walls. Nestoir held up his hand and blocked Dae’s view of Sofu
D who was edging closer to Hama,
hoping to recapture the horrid monster who had abused his son. Hama backed away and whimpered drawing Dae’s
attention to him.

“Determined aren’t you?”
Dae said to Sofu D and blocked his path. “But then again, so am I.”

“You know,” Andy said with
a sweet smile. “There is really nothing I could say to you that would make you
give up. And we have kicked your ass so many times…it is ridiculous” Andy’s
smile turned even more chilling in its sweetness. “My Lady,” Andy said and
stepped aside. Sofu gasped as Lady Aurora stood with her fangs bared and hissed
at Dae.

Aurora took a slow step forward as Dae
took one back. Aurora
advanced until Dae was leaning back against the table and braced her hands on
each side him. “Touch him, and I promise to rip your heart and eat it,” Sofu’s
eyes widened, never having seen Aurora
ready for battle. In all the centuries they had been together, she had always
been so sweet natured that sometimes he forgot what she truly was. “My love,” Aurora said with out
turning her eyes away from Dae. “Are you hurt?”

“No, and I am the one who
is supposed to protect you,” Sofu said calmly and approached wrapping his arms
around the surprisingly petite vampire. She smiled and turned around accepting
his kiss, shrinking her fangs in the process.

“Honestly love,” Aurora said, “I meant no
insult to your…Manhood, but he pissed me off.” Lord D blushed when he noted Aurora’s hand and where
she had placed it on his father. “Sorry kid, battle makes me… excited.”

“Well, let’s see you all
get out of this building,” Dae taunted and grabbed Hama’s hand.

“Wait please, D-Kun, you
promised to love me for the rest of my life; I will hold you to that.” Hama yelled and again tried to approach Lord D. JJ held
tight to Lord D who turned to face Hama.
Prince Angel closed his hand and the crystal that surrounded them vanished. Hama smiled when Lord D
raised his hand and looked at the ring JJ had placed there.

“I did promise, and that
promised has been fulfilled.” Lord D said and backed up to JJ’s embrace. “You
forfeited you life, the moment you forced my son. When the Arcadian king killed
you, my contract was over.” Lord D looked away from Hama’s confusion. He took a deep breath and
continued, “I loved you Hamanosuke, I swear to you I did. There were so many
times when you would talk to me for hours. I enjoyed when we would walk in my
garden. You used to seek me out and simply enjoy my presence. That’s why I
allowed you to touch me, I never enjoyed it. You always hurt me.” Lord D paused
and wiped away bitter tears at the memories of pain that his words evoked. “Even when you tried to be gentle. But I loved you so I was
quiet. But it wasn’t enough.” Lord D paused and wiped fresh tears from his
face. “I could never understand what I did to upset you… To change you, but now
I know that it was never me. You were the monster. You beat Hikari, and in turn
you beat me.” Lord D looked around and was glad that his father had dispelled
the horrendous picture. “I took it, and it still wasn’t enough. You took my
son, he was innocent and he was driven to madness because of what you did to
him. As if that wasn’t enough you tried to take the child Hikari gifted me
with. He carries my grandson and I will kill you a thousand fold before I let
you hurt them.”

Hama laughed softly. “Nice words dear,
but you once told me that your powers only worked for healing, you can not harm
anyone. If you do, then you will lose any ability to help anyone.”

“If I have to sacrifice my
abilities to heal, to save my child, I will.” Lord D said tearfully with a
stubborn tilt to his chin that Hama
had never seen before but knew that Human Detective was to blame.

“That,” Sofu said, “Will
not be necessary, the lady Aurora will amuse D as Q-Chan, and I will remain at
my shop just to assure myself that you and your master can not come near.” Sofu
smiled, “When I am not surrounded by your aura, I can be quite formidable, and
I think the Lady here would love a chance at you.”

“Right now, all I want is
you,” Lady Aurora said and licked her lips. Lord D blushed when his father
laughed and turned to the door. He paused when Demons blocked their exit.

“You always leave me a
little present,” Andy said to Dae and jumped over the heads of the crowd in the
room and planted herself in the direct path of the oncoming hoard. Leon panted in
shock at the hideous beast that approached. He heard the definite sound of
steel sliding against steel and saw Andy unsheathe a shining broadsword. The
first beast lost its head and the rest of the Arcadian’s armed themselves.
Leon, Ryo, and Dee palmed the weapons that Princess Chimera had given them.
Princess Chimera grinned and tossed a golden gun to JJ who began to fire. JJ
made sure that Lord D was safely behind him and he followed the group from the
room.

Break

Jill stared at D’s pale
face and grew worried. He would sit for a moment then pace, and then sit again.
“Do not worry, Andy looked like she wanted a chance to fight, I am sure that
your father and grandfather are alright.” Jill tried to assure D. D nodded and
sat again placing his hands on his tummy. He was sitting thus when the shop
door opened and his father rushed in. “Child you are alright?” Lord D said and
placed his hands over D’s.

“Father, I should be
asking you that,” D said and smiled. He took one look at Leon and burst
into tears.

“What… What wait, what?” Leon said
panicked and rushed to D’s side.

“I was so worried about
you.” D hiccupped, “all of you,”

“We are alright child,”
Lord D said. “Now go lie down and rest, I will be in shortly to give you your
checkup.”

“No, the checkup will be
rescheduled for tomorrow; you go and rest, in your condition…” Sofu said and
paused at Lord D’s alarmed looked he sighed. “We need to talk anyway.” Sofu
said and looked meaningfully at Lady Aurora.

“Condition…father, are you
ill?” D asked resisting Leon’s
pull to bed.

“No Child, please, do not
worry yourself.” Lord D assured his son and smiled as he was led from the room.

“What’s wrong with you?”
Lady Aurora said and forcefully turned Lord D around to face her.

“My love please, he is not
ill,” Sofu assured her and pulled her away from Lord D who looked confused for
a moment, then unbearably tired. Lord D sighed and leaned weakly against JJ who
picked him up and cradled him in his arms. “Take him to bed; I will be in
shortly to speak with you both. Ryo smiled at JJ before he shoved Dee to the door and left determined to enjoy their
weekend off. They were supposed to be working the stakeout, but someone of
royal blood had called the precinct and requested their aid, and so they were
off again and expected to guard the pet shop. Andy created an opening and the
Arcadians slipped back through to their kingdom.

Break

“So we are going to be
parents,” JJ said with a silly grin. His grin vanished when he thought of how
he was to explain this to his Nana.

Lord D smiled tiredly from
his perch on his bed, “I am sure she will understand.” Lord D would have said
more but his bedroom door opened and Sofu stepped in pulling Lady Aurora behind
him.

Sofu paused and stood
beside the bed, “are you well child?” Lord D nodded and submitted to his
father’s check over. Once Sofu was satisfied, he sat in a chair and indicated
that Lady Aurora should sit as well. JJ stood to leave the room but Sofu shook
his head at him and indicated that he should sit beside Lord D. “My blessing is
needed in order for you to formally claim my son. I made that amendment to my
rule over him after he had foolishly given himself to Hama.” Sofu stared hard at JJ for a moment
before he smiled. “You have it.” Sofu then turned to Lady Aurora, “my son is
not ill, he carries a child.” Lady Aurora gasped and then tears of blood fell
from her eyes. Sofu wiped her tears with a handkerchief. Aurora hid her face embarrassed.

“They grow up so fast; it seems
only a short time has passed since I was myself carrying him.” Sofu said and
smiled gently. “Child, I know that I have told you that I carried you because
your mother was ill and thus could not. The truth is your mother is dead and so
I had to carry you because she could not.”

“Sofu!” Lady Aurora said and looked
frightened at Lord D.

“You…You’re my…mother,”
Lord D said to Aurora who nodded and more tears fell. “Why did you never tell
me?”

“I feared you would hate
me,” Lady Aurora said piteously. “You were destined to live as a Kami, a being
of life and light, to find out that your mother was… is… a…”

“Loving individual, you
raised me along side my father, you were always my mother. I wish I could have
called you so,” Lord D said. “You scolded me when it was necessary and you… You
should have told me, I would have understood.”

“No child, you understand
now, but that is not the only reason we did not tell you. Your mother wanted
you to live as a child of light and life, as a Kami, and the child of a mixed
race couple always has a choice, to live as a member of either parent’s
family.” Sofu said.

“I could not bear it if
you chose to join me so we denied you the choice. Either way you would have
been immortal, I wanted you to live in a way, so that you could eventually go
home.” Aurora
said. Lord D stared aghast at his father… no his parents. “I can understand if
you can’t forgive me for deceiving you.”

“You were always my
mother; I will be honored to call you so.” Lord D said and embraced his mother
for the first time.

Break

(Random act of Lemon)

Ryo moaned deeply as Dee nibbled his way down his spine. Dee
always made sure to take advantage of times when Bikky slept elsewhere. No
matter the protestation, or Ryo’s shy embarrassment Dee always made sure that Ryo
knew that what he wanted… was a man. Ryo arched his back as Dee
used his hands to spread his pale cheeks and lick further in between swirling
his tongue around eliciting cries and gasps from Ryo who practically wept with
pleasure. How could something so naughty feel so delicious? Ryo squirmed as Dee’s tongue probed and his finger stroked his testicles
until Ryo thought he would die.  “Please…
Dee… Now… UMMM…” Ryo tucked his already
swollen bottom lip between his teeth and gripped the sheets before he pushed
back against Dee’s body.

Dee grinned and wrapped his arms
around Ryo tightly and lined his dripping head up to Ryo’s begging entrance. He
waiting, rubbing against the spot but not pushing in. Ryo whimpered and Dee smile before he pushed inside of Ryo. Ryo’s breathing
hitched as the initial discomfort was pushed aside by a deep, all-encompassing
pleasure and the feeling of being owned by Dee.  Dee knew
when he brushed against Ryo’s special pleasure spot and as he moved he was glad
that no one was in the house to hear Ryo cry out. Even Cujo had abandoned them.
“Oh… Ryo, you are so tight… always so tight…” Dee
moaned and grasped Ryo’s hips and kissed his shoulder blade. “Almost too tight,
but it’s good… so good.”

“I’m not too tight,” Ryo
panted and gasped when Dee shoved in hard,
making his insides melt. “You’re too big,” Ryo gasped and moaned again holding
onto his pillow and tossing his head back so that he could kiss Dee. “Oh…Feels good. Dee
feels… OOOHHHH…. real good… Sooooooo… Gooood... Ahhhhhhhhh,” Ryo closed his
eyes and felt his body release a copious amount of creamy joy. Ryo held still,
feeling the last of his contractions subside as Dee
shot and filled him with his own sweet release.

Chapter 4:

Lucky

Leon would forever wonder how D could
sit in sunlight and remain as pale as freshly fallen snow. He sat with a beam
shining around him while he rocked gently back and forth. D looked up and
smiled serenely at Leon.
Leon
noted that lately, D's hands had rested on his tummy. “You've gotten so plump,”
Leon
said with a grin.

“I am heading towards six
months,” D said and stood with the aid of the arm rests on the rocking chair. Leon moved to
hold the chair steady. He noticed that D needed another haircut.

“Tomorrow morning I'll cut
your hair.” Leon
said, D smiled he had himself noticed that his hair
was longer, but he was too tired lately to make much of a big deal about it.

“D!” Leon sighed as
Andy's voice could be heard as she ran headlong through the garden looking for
him. Leon
had forgotten why he had sought D out the moment he had seen D looking so
beautiful sitting in the garden sunlight. “I have the most wonderful idea, we,
the Princesses, your grandmother and I, are going to throw you a baby shower.”

D stared for a moment at
the mention of his grandmother. He had only recently thought of the Lady Aurora
as his grandmother, but hearing of how she had helped raise his father, even
though she never officially claimed to be his mother was amazing to him. “A
baby shower?” D said softly and stood still while Andy gushed over his rounding
belly. D moved his unbound hair over his shoulder and smiled at his father who
entered the garden with JJ. “Do you know anything about a shower father?”

“Shower?” Lord D said with
a puzzled frown. “I think I heard Andy squealing about it when she ran in here
all excited, leaving the little prince-ling in the care of his doting father
and God-father.” Lord D smiled and then inquired if D was feeling well for his
face was flushed and he seemed to be having trouble with his back. D placed a
hand on the small of his back and sighed.

“I am fine father; it just
seems that my front weighs more than my back.” D said and stretched using Leon as
leverage. Leon
placed his hand on D's tummy with a worried frown, he glanced at Lord D who simply
smiled and followed JJ and the rest of the group to the front of the shop for
tea.

As Andy rambled on, Lord D
had a curious look on his face. “Your Highness, do you think that it would be
possible to have two parties at the same time?” Lord D asked.

Andy looked at him oddly;
she scanned him momentarily then smiled brightly. “Your wedding is your day; it
should be all about you.”

Lord D blushed and looked
away from Andy's penetrating gaze. “I would be honored to share a day with my
son, if he would not mind sharing with me.” D smiled and nodded. “Jemi-Chan, do
you think we should explain things to NaaNaa?” JJ sighed before he nodded
grimly. “I think I would be better able to speak to her in a tone that she
would understand.” Lord D smiled his most beautiful smile and JJ fell in love
all over again.

Break

Nana opened her door with
a smile for her Grand son and his lover. She had become enamored of the
beautiful doctor that her dear Jemi had brought into her life. Not only had her
heal improved, but she had never seen her grand son happier. She had a feeling
that they wanted to talk to her about something. Nana smiled and glanced at the
ring that graced Lord D's hand. She had a feeling that they would be talking to
her about that.

As Nana sat and listened
to the soft spoken explanation she stared in wonder. “You are telling me that
you are not human?” She asked Lord D who nodded slowly and gave her a
reassuring smile.

“I am a Kami, an ancient
race...” As Lord D continued his explanation JJ sat and watched understanding
more about the creature he loved.

JJ looked oddly at Lord D,
“Darling, how old are you?”

Lord D looked at JJ and
smiled, it was a question that had bothered JJ for a while now. “I was just
passing my 35th year when the Savior was born in a manger.”

“Oh my God...” Nana said
as tears fell down her aged face.

“There is one more thing
NaaNaa,” Lord D said and Nana again was charmed by his accent. “The Kami race
is a special race and our abilities and our bodies are unlike anything that
humans could comprehend. Even so, I must explain more to you.” Lord D took a
deep breath and smiled. “I am to bear a child for your grandson,” Lord D said.
Nana stared open mouthed at Lord D. “I know it is a bit much to comprehend
right now, but it is true.” Lord D continued. “Right now I merely carry a...”
Lord D paused and tried to think of a way to explain his current condition. “I
carry the possibility of a child, the child will cause my body to accommodate
and in the end I will become pregnant and deliver.”

“A child,” Nana said and
more tears fell from ageless eyes. She clutched Lord D's hand to her bosom and
kissed his smooth cheek. “Thank you.”

Break

JJ was amazed that his
grand mother had taken the news so well. When he mentioned his feelings to Lord
D later that night as Lord D prepared for bed, Lord D simply smiled at him and
said, “It does seem like she would be more in shock of the news to you. I
understand though, you see the very old and the very young are more able to
accept the many strange and wonderful things in this world. The young have not
lived long enough for cynicism to taint them and the old have come to
understand their own deficiencies in knowing all and are willing to accept the
new.”

“You are very wise, and
very beautiful,” JJ said with a grin and took Lord D into his arms. Lord D
leaned back against JJ smiling as the bed robe he had so neatly arranged came
undone. JJ was gentle as his fingers rediscovered the pert, pink nipples. Lord
D gasped and melted against JJ’s knowing touch. JJ smiled and readjusted Lord D
on the bed. Lord D went plaint in JJ’s arms and lost his robe completely. He
lay back against the pillows and moaned softly. JJ loved Lord D’s little
needful sounds of pleasure. He licked the tortured nipple before he reached and
hand over and pinched the other one.

“Jemi-Chan…” Lord D gasped
and corded his long, slim fingers through JJ’s already disheveled hair. “I love
you.” Lord D said and JJ looked up before he moved over Lord D to place a kiss
upon his lips. Lord D eagerly opened his mouth for JJ’s tongue. JJ sucked until
Lord D’s tongue entered his mouth and dueled with his own. Lord D gasped and
spread his legs when he felt JJ’s questing fingers probing his entrance. “Yes…
oh… Yes.” Lord D panted as JJ slipped a well lubed finger inside. Lord D raised
his hips and rode the fingers coming closer to oblivion.

JJ slide from Lord D’s
grasp and took the whole of his dripping erection into his mouth. Lord D cried
out before he filled JJ’s mouth with a honey-sweet mixture that JJ had fast become
addicted to. JJ moved until he was between Lord D’s legs pressing his own
needful erection against the tightness that had never failed to welcome him.
Lord D, relaxed in his post-release state, waited. He opened his eyes and JJ
kissed him deeply before he entered slow and smoothly. JJ pushed forward until
he was seated balls-deep and Lord D wriggled his bottom in pleasure. JJ grinned
and began to move inside of Lord D and was glad that he had been thrown through
a window on a clear day.

Break

Andy was thrilled by the
many flowers that graced Count D’s garden. She flitted from one end of the lush
greenery to the other happily applauding the wondrous beauty. “Oh D it is
perfect, we will have the shower and the wedding right here.” Andy giggled as
she began to think of the many ribbons and flower arrangements that would be
made and set about as decorations. “I’m seeing candles, lots and lots of
candles.” Count and Lord D just smiled as she ran about planning.

Break

D tried his best to bow
before the Arcadian King, but all he managed was a half nod/bow, over his
expanded tummy. Zarro could not help but laugh at the blushing Kami and in
turned bowed to D. Lord D smiled when Zarro sniffed him with raised brows. “If
you please, Your Majesty, my child is unaware of his impending sibling as yet
and I would like to break the news to him gently.” Lord D whispered to the
king.

“Break the news; you speak
as if it is a portent of doom instead of a joyous occasion.” King Zarro said
with a grin and took in the formal deep green cheongsam that Lord D wore. He
like the yellow border and spring flower motif, the outfit matched JJ’s white
suit with a green vest perfectly. “Kami’s in bloom, such a wonderful
occurrence.” D looked oddly at the king before he accepted Leon’s aid to
sit on a chair set up in the garden. It had been decorated with ribbons and
bows. Colorful birds flew in pre-arranged, choreographed arcs throughout the
garden.

Leon held in a laugh as a robin perched
on D’s head and made as if to stay. D gently cupped the little creature in his
hand and, with a few gentle words, sent it on its way. JJ held tight to his
grandmother’s hand as he presented her to the Arcadian Royalty. High Prince
Daphnus bowed over her hand and complemented her till she blushed like a school
girl. “NaaNaa, I would like to introduce you to my son, he is tired more often
than not now so please forgive him, or rather me, because I will not allow him
to stand and greet you.” Nana’s eyes bulged as she got a good look at D’s
figure. He sat primly in a chair and made to rise but Lord D, true to his word,
placed a hand on his shoulder to stall the movement. “You have a long day ahead
of you, rest while you can.”

D nodded at his father,
“Yes father. I pleased to meet you,” D said when he turned his attention to
Nana. “I have heard a great deal of wonderful things about you.” D continued to
smile at the older lady and he paused when he felt a small hand clutching the
sleeve of his robe. He looked down at Chris. “Is something wrong?”

Chris hung his head –No-
he said to the count and sighed.

Count D smiled.
“Christopher, you know, sometimes when the bay grows my skin stretches,” Lord D
grinned at his son as he continued to talk to the child. “And it can be a
discomfort; would you mind terribly rubbing it for me?” D placed Chris small
hand on his round tummy and moved it in circular motions. The baby moved and
Chris’s eyes widened and he smiled brightly up at D before he stared at the
quivering pattered silk under his hand.

Ryo, Dee,
Bikky and Carol arrived at the shop smiling and bearing gifts for both the
commitment and the baby shower. D noticed Ryo’s pensive look although he tried
his best to hide it. Queen Victoria
arrived with Heaven and Celeste. Heaven’s white garments sparkled in the bright
sunlight. She smiled at JJ’s Grandmother, before tears welled in her eyes and
she excused herself. Nana stared in wonder at the girl she had played with as a
young girl. “She hasn’t aged… Is she like you, a Kami?” Nana asked Lord D who
shook his head.

“She is not a Kami,” Lord
D said sadly as he stared at the most mixed race creature he had ever met.

Bikky found Chris where he
still stood rubbing Count D’s tummy. “What are you doing?” Bikky asked when he
saw that Count D had dozed off.

“His skin stretches, and
I’m making it feel better,” Chris said and looked up.

-He’s just like a baby
himself, rub his tummy he goes to sleep, just like when my aunt had a baby,- Bikky laughed as Leon came and
gently ran his fore finger down D’s nose. D awoke with a smile and blushed to
have fallen asleep so quickly. Leon
had noticed that with all the current activity, Chris had been feeling left
out. Leave it to D, he thought, to find a solution.

“I love you,” Leon whispered
in D’s ear. D smiled and returned the sentiment. Leon placed his hand over Chris’s.
Chris grinned and left Leon
to it before he ran of to play with Bikky, Carol, and the pets in the shop.

Break

The Garden was silent as
Lord D accepted a wedding band from JJ and placed one of his own on JJ’s hand.
They spoke their vows quietly. Once they had taken their seats Andy stood and
walked forward, she smiled as they held hands. “I know that you all, well those
of you who have seen us perform before, wondered in February why Clarisande
sang Lucky,” Nestoir said and grinned at his wife. “The reason was because we
needed a song with the proper sentiments sang softly in the background, my wife
is incapable of such a feat, well here it is…” Nestoir stepped aside and picked
up a guitar and Andy inhaled.

“It was a Monday, when
my lover told me,

"never pay the reaper with love only."

what could I say to you, except, "I love
you."

and "I'd give my life for yours."

I know we are… we are the lucky ones.

I know we are… we are the lucky ones.

I know we are… we are the lucky ones, dear.”

The Audience felt the song
reverberate through their hearts and pull. The first tear fell from D’s
multicolored eyes and Leon
squeezed his hand. JJ nuzzled Lord D’s neck and rocked back and forth. Andy
continued seemingly oblivious to the affects she had on the gathered crowd.
Jill clutched a soggy tissue and stared blinking up at Andy.

“Remember the time we
made love in the roses?

(And you took my picture in all sorts of poses!)

How could I ever get over you, when I’d give my life for yours.

I know we are... we are the lucky ones.

I know we are... we are the lucky ones.

I know we are... we are the lucky ones.

I know we are… we are the lucky ones, dear.”

Diana felt as if her heart
beat in tune to the pulsing beat played by Nestoir who stared at his wife as if
she were the only person on the planet. The king smiled gleefully and held his
wife. He knew Andy did not mean to project her feelings, but she had so much
love it was nearly impossible for her to contain them all. Andy looked deeply
into Nestoir’s eyes and a silver tear fell down her cheek.

“My dear, it’s time to
say, I thank God for you.

I thank God for you in each and every single way.

And, I know... I know... I know... I know...

It's time to let you know. Time to let
you know.

Time to let you know. Time to sit here and say:”

Andy paused and the crowd
held their breath.

“I know we are... we
are the lucky ones.

I know we are... we are the lucky ones.

I know we are... we are the lucky ones.

I know we are… we are the lucky ones, dear. Dear…

We are the lucky ones, dear... We are the Luck ones dear….

We are the lucky ones
dear…”

Andy breathed in and was
silent as Nestoir played the last notes of the song. Dee
wrapped his arms around Ryo and agreed with Nestoir, there was no way she could
have sung the song quietly in the background. Ryo squeezed Dee’s
hand and sighed. “Dee, A woman called the house yesterday. She claims to be
Bikky’s aunt. She wants to take him home.” Ryo sighed as he felt Dee clench his fingers. Tears fell down Ryo’s face as the
crowd cheered.

Chapter 5:

Showers

D sat still with his
elegant hands resting peacefully against his tummy. Leon looked down and smiled.
Briefly Leon
allowed his hand to trail over the sleek ponytail that hung over the end of the
chair. As they watched Andy and the other Royalty gear up for another song D
noted his father standing off to the side of the party holding his stomach with
a peculiar look on his face. D rested his hand on Leon and used his strength as
leverage to hoist himself out of the plush chair.

“Father,” D said and
placed his hand on his father’s arm. Lord D was trembling and breathing in
shallow pants. “Are you all right?”

Lord D was afraid to open
his mouth to answer so he nodded and smiled tightly at his son. “You
shouldn’t,” Lady Aurora chastised Sofu D from her perch on his shoulder. Every
now and then she allowed Count D to see her as Q-Chan fluttering about.

“My grand son has a right
to this knowledge. Although I promise I will not tell him. If he is as much
like his father as I think he is, he’ll figure it out.” Lady Aurora sighed and
stamped on his shoulder and flew to land on Lord D’s shoulder. She stroked his
cheek with her tiny hand. “My dear son,” Lord D glared at his father’s slow
smile and knew that he was up to something. “Have you tried Princess
Andromache’s Chocolate strawberry pudding it has the most wonderful vanilla
wafer crust?” Sofu D held up a bowl of the pudding and offered it to Lord D.

“Father!” D exclaimed as
Lord D clamped a hand over his mouth and heaved. D grasped his father’s arm and
sped him to the bathroom where Lord D inhaled and tossed into the waiting
toilet. Leon
came running into the bathroom and frowned when he saw that D was not ill. D
stared at his father as his heaving subsided. JJ ran into the bathroom behind Leon. He had
been sitting watching the show with his Nana when he saw that Lord D did not
look well. JJ handed him a cup of water to rinse his mouth. “Father? How long
have you been ill?”

“I am not ill,” Lord D
said and stood vowing to get revenge on his father for the fowl trick he had
just played.

“Oh…” D’s eyes widened,
“oh…OH…OH…Oh my. You…You’re,” D placed a hand to his own
stomach and then pointed at his father. “You’re…”

“I’m carrying,” Lord D
looked down at his hands as he admitted the truth to his son. “I have yet to
accommodate and with herbs I can delay it…”

“Why would you delay the
growth of your child?” D asked staring from his father to JJ. D saw that JJ was
not surprised by his father’s admission.

“My strength will be
needed for you.” Lord D said and placed his hand on D’s tummy. “In time my body
will be allowed to make room, after you deliver safely.”

D would have said more but
JJ shook his head slightly at him. D sighed and left his father alone with JJ
in the bathroom. “So you’re getting a brother or a sister soon,” Leon said with
a grin.

“A brother,” D said with a
smile, “my family has only ever had sons.” D walked back over to his chair he
passed Ryo and Dee and saw that Ryo was upset and Dee
was trying to console him. “Is something wrong detectives?”

“Ah, little D,” Dee began but paused refusing to ruin this happy day with
ill news. A loud laugh from Bikky drew the Counts attention. D saw fireworks
from the stage and knew that the show was over. The guests would be served
dinner now followed by the baby shower. Andy had decided that the perfect way
for the wedding to end and the shower to begin was entertainment. Andy bounced
happily over to the small group.

“Why are you all over
here, it’s time for dinner?” She gushed. Her happy smile vanished as she felt
tears prick her eyes. “Some one is in pain,” Andy said and looked around. “Ryo,
Dee what is troubling you?”

“Sorry, Princess, I did
not want to ruin the party, but uh,” Ryo sighed and blinked rapidly. “A woman
called the house, she claims she is Bikky’s aunt and she wants custody of him.”
Ryo explained. Andy heard a loud gasp. She turned and saw Bikky running away
from the crowd. Carol stood in tears.

“Bikky’s going away?” She
asked and clutched D’s elegant blue robe. D gently patted her hand and saw that
Chris was in tears holding on to Leon.

“Not if I can help it,”
Ryo promised.

“The first thing that will
happen is DCFS will get involved. You and Dee will be investigated and your
care of Bikky will be accessed.” Andy said Ryo looked at her surprised by her
tone of voice. She fished around in a pocket and pulled out a bottle. Within
moments Nestoir showed up with a squalling little Prince Nicklaus. She handed
him the bottle and continued, “Then the judge will grant visitation rights to
the aunt. As long as you are the legal guardian there is nothing she can
legally do to keep him. Get a lawyer; you’re going to need one.”

“Won’t they have a problem
with us raising him as opposed to a blood relative?” Ryo asked.

“ Not if you two prove out
to be the better choice and Bikky is twelve years old now, his wishes will
weigh heavily in the courts. He is old enough now to be of some sound mind.”
Andy grinned then, “It is also beneficial that he is as old as he is. Where was
she when he was first orphaned? There is a hidden motive behind her wanting him
and I will have an investigator look into it. Oh and Ryo,” Andy said before she
took D’s arm and prepared to lead him to the dinner table. “Don’t be afraid to
name drop, you are in service to, and a dear friend of the Arcadian king.”

Ryo smiled feeling the
weight of the last 24 hours lifted from his shoulders. “Thank you Andy, now how
do I find Bikky?” Ryo looked around the shop with a frown on his face. He was
not looking forward to spending hours wandering the corridors.

Count D smiled then, “if I
am not mistaken h should make it the dinner table in five minutes.” D had
manipulated the shape of shop to drive the distraught boy’s direction.

Nana looked at the large
table sat up in the garden with food laid out from end to end. Lord D sat next
to her sipping his gentian tea and speaking quietly to Kagetsuya. He and
Chihaya had showed up bearing boxes of gifts for he and JJ as well as a
mountain of baby supplies for D. Lord D had not told them of his condition. Chihaya
took one look at Lord D and his bright purple eyes widened. Lord D sighed;
leave it to the little positive angel to see so clearly.

Dee worked to cheer Bikky and calm him
down assuring him that there would be one heck of a fight before they allowed
him to be taken away from them. Bikky nodded and just as he was ready to sit at
the table, Leon
had managed to calm Chris and Carol. The rest of the meal continued with
laughter and joy.

D was sat in a chair and
he and Leon proceeded to open the pile of gifts that everyone had arrived with,
when they were done they were supplied with everything from a hand made
bassinet from Sofu D, to cloth diapers made with sturdy Arcadian cloth. The
king had given jeweled Rattlers and the Queen had made tiny little clothes with
exquisite embroidery. Lord D sighed and approached his son carrying a large
package. “Child, I knew that you would have three of everything for your baby
when all is said and done, so this gift is for you.” D smiled at his father and
opened the gift. He stared bemused at the painting.

D looked at the elegantly
beautiful Chinese lady in traditional clothing. D did not have to see the pin
in her hair to know who she was. “You painted this father,” D said recognizing
his father’s unique brush strokes. Lord D nodded and would have stepped away
but D stood and threw his arms around his father and hastily wiped his tears.
“Thank you,” D said, he picked up the painting and showed it to Leon, “it’s my
mother.”

“Wow,” Leon said as
much for the beauty in the painting as for the talent that Lord D possessed.
“She looks so young,” Leon
commented as he took in the ornate hairdo and smooth features.

“Yes, she was fifteen when
she married Hama-
and she was twenty when she bore D.” Lord D said sadly as he too glanced at the
painting and felt the pain of memories. “Odd, you will be the equivalent of
twenty when you bear your own child,” Lord D said to D. D summoned a fresh
handkerchief and handed it to his father. Lord D blushed and accepted the hanky
and looked away. Nana patted his hand and offered him chocolate. She had noted
that the sweet seemed to calm his nerves. Lord D gratefully took it.

Leon handed D a pair of small diamond
earrings with a smaller jewel attached to them by a small silver chain. The
smaller jewels were amethyst and topaz they would glitter just below his ear
lobe and bring out the color of his eyes, when they weren’t hidden by his hair.

D was smiling when his
grandfather lead him away from the group to have a word with him. “Child,” Sofu
began he sat next to Lady Aurora who smiled at her grandson. Holding on to the
shape of Q-Chan was taxing on her when she was hungry as she was now and so she
was glad to be in her true shape. “I want to tell you that I am going to have
to confiscate your father’s herbs and make him accommodate. He thinks that by
delaying his own pregnancy he will have more strength for you.” Sofu sighed and
shook his head, “the truth is, the more he delays it the more he weakens
himself, he can not withstand it much longer, and he will either have to
accommodate, or deny the child. I will be there with you and help him to
deliver your child, he has another week at the most that he can delay it.”

“By deny you mean,” D
paused and his eyes widened. “He will lose his child?” D said and stared aghast
at his grandfather. Sofu nodded, “Then yes by all means take them away from
him, does he know of the risks he is inflicting upon himself and his child?”

“No, he thinks he is
strong enough, and while his body may yet survive, if he could withstand it for
three more months, by the time you delivered he would be too weak to do more
than watch you suffer. I am prepared to deliver your child should he be
stubborn. As it is the child he carries is not going to last through out the
strain of the carrying process, it will need to begin to grow or the
possibility he carries will soon be no more than a lost dream.”

“My my, my,” D looked up
as his father was standing behind his chair. “What have you all been plotting?”

“Father, how long have
you…?” D began and blushed guiltily.

“Only just, is something
wrong?” Lord D said and sat beside his son. As Sofu explained Lord D began to
weep, tearfully he handed his father a three month supply of small vials of
herbs. Sofu tried to reassure his son and grandson while the rest of the guest
had a good time. Lord d sighed and wiped his face; JJ had found them and
wondered what was making him so upset. “With all I have in my system now, I
should accommodate by next week,” Lord D said to JJ who grinned like a fool and
pulled Lord D into his arms. Lord D could not help but laugh and feel better.

The evening was topped off
with a tour of the brand new nursery. D and his father had arranged it and
painted until it looked like a rain forest. There were enough potted plants in
the room that for a moment, Leon
thought they had indeed transplanted a part of a rain forest into the pet shop.
Again Nana marveled that the pet shop was so large on the inside when it looked
anything but on the outside.

Break

(One week later)

Leon kissed his way across D’s tummy
and ran his hand over his bare bottom. “Are you sure you can?” Leon asked not
wanting to hurt D in his condition.

“Leon, make love to me,” D cooed and reached for Leon.

Leon grinned, “I am not getting on top
of you.” Leon
said and lay d on his side. Leon
braced pillows around D’s frame for support and lubed himself; he lay with his
chest against D’s back and pushed gently in. D sighed and clasped his hands to Leon’s moaning
in pleasure. Leon sighed, forever would he love D’s slick tightness his
movements began to even out and quicken listening to the unevenness of D’s
breathing Leon allowed himself to go with him. Leon pulled out and still cradling
D in his arms he drifted off to sleep.

Break

“I understand D’s
embarrassment,” Lord D said as his father examined his abdomen and then lower.
Sofu D tsked at Lord D and continued his examination. “Right,” Lord D said and
closed his eyes, he held JJ’s hand tried not to squeeze as his father found a
particularly sensitive spot. Sofu took notes and measured and soon Lord D was
getting dressed.

“Your body is indeed
strong my son, and you should accommodate shortly,” Lord D said and cleaned the
table. He opened the door and ushered D in. “On the table, feet in stirrups,”
He instructed briskly. D blushed and looked questioningly at his father. “He is
in no condition now to see to you. Do as I say.” Sofu heaved and aggrieved
sigh. “Honestly, I am a doctor, where do you think he learned it all from. If
you had shown the least provocation, I would have trained you. As it is,” Sofu
continued to talk as he ran his hands over D’s stomach and hooked up the
ultrasound machine. Nurse T-Chan handed him the electrolytic gel. “You showed
more of an interest in the skills that master Xi could teach you so I left you
to it. It seems that once you reach your majority, your powers of summoning
will be accompanied by the ability to defend yourself and others. Your father
is strictly a healer.” Sofu D slipped his hand below D’s waist.

“Ouch!” D winced drawing Leon’s frowning
attention to Sofu D. Lord D walked forward and looked over his father’s
shoulder. D blushed from head to toe. Having one member of his family looking
between his legs was one thing, but two?

“Right on schedule,” Lord
D said and smiled encouragingly at his son. The smile was wasted for D had
closed his eyes and brought his hands up to cover his burning face. “Son you
are six months today and your body has begun construction of the birth canal.”
Lord D explained Leon
looked over Sofu’s shoulder and D’s blush became brighter. “The third and final
trimester has begun.” Lord D said excitedly ignoring the niggling doubts that
crawled up his spine. JJ sat patiently near the door and refused to embarrass D
any more than he already was.

Break

Dinner was a silent
affair. Ryo, Dee and Bikky had come to join
them with the good news of Andy’s predictions being correct. Bikky was
scheduled for a first supervised visit the following weekend. A lawyer had been
called and all was underway. Dee had promised
Ryo that they would fight this battle to the end. D’s face still maintained
some of its earlier tinge of pink as he sat silent through most of dinner. Lord
D gasped drawing the eyes of all at the table to him. “Excuse me,” Lord D said
and stood rushing from the room with JJ holding his arm to support him.

“He’s…” D said and frowned
sympathetically remembering all too well the pain of accommodation.

Lord D entered his room to
find Sofu D on his bed, “father?”

“Lie down and relax,
breathe your way through,” Sofu said and sat beside his son. Sofu held one hand
while JJ took the other. Lord D tried to relax and breath but the pain was more
than he bargained for. The first tear fell and JJ grew worried. “Do not worry,
it will be over soon,” Sofu said without looking up. JJ nodded and tried not to
wince when Lord D squeezed his hand. Lord D gave a final loud gasp and laid
breathing deeply on the bed. Lord D heaved and ran to the bathroom tossing the
lovely dinner he had just consumed. JJ sighed and could nothing but hold his
hair back. Sofu D smiled and left them alone to join the rest of the dinner
guest.

Chapter 6:

A Fool's intent

JJ slowly walked to the
breakfast table and dropped into the chair looking for all
the world as if he had walked to Dae's hideout and back unarmed. “Dude,”
Leon
remarked as JJ practically fell into his plate that D handed him.

“All night,” JJ said as if
he were describing his worst fears. “Bathroom ended up sleeping in the
bathroom, Darling hugging toilet.” From JJ's stilted speech Leon got the
gist of the problem.

“Wow, D was nauseous but
it was not that bad.” Leon
said and sipped his coffee feeling bad for JJ.

Sofu D looked up from his
newspaper and watched Q-Chan flutter off to Lord D. He smiled indulgently
before he turned to Leon.
“I have told you young man,” Sofu said with a smile, “each pregnancy is
different, Andy was hardly ill at all, she had a few upsets when she was first
starting, but was otherwise eating like a little typhoon. D lost nearly twenty
pounds his first three months, you were worried now look at him.” Sofu patted
D's rather large tummy. D stifled a giggle and sat down at the table. He
sympathetically patted JJ's hand and began to eat his breakfast.

“I swear more came out
than has ever gone in,” JJ said tiredly. “I called Nana this morning and she
wants me to come and get her. I don't think I can drive in this condition.” JJ
confessed he heard a soft shuffling behind him and looked up to see Lord D
leaning against the wall. “Darling I thought you were sleeping.”

“I got cold,” Lord D
pouted he had felt the bed beside him and had looked for JJ finding only
Q-Chan. D had never thought to see his staid father pout but then again he had
never thought to see his father pregnant.

“You,” Leon said to JJ
and stood. “Take him back to bed, I will go and pick up your Nana.” Leon kissed D
briefly and headed for the door. JJ stood to his feet and wobbled, he clasped
Lord D waist and wished he hadn't. Lord D heaved and JJ perked up and ran him
down the hall.

Break

Nana stared at the tall blond
man outside of her door and smiled before she grabbed a large suitcase and a
small dog and followed him out to the car. Leon took the suitcase and smiled,
he would let D deal with this. “Well now young man, I can not let JJ alone to
deal with my impending great child, he is just a child himself you know.” Leon simply
smiled at the old lady and helped her into his car.

Break

D sat and sighed it was
hard to sew while listening to you father retch in the other room. JJ had begun
to give Lord D water just so that he would have something in him to toss out
and avoid dry heaves. D sighed and peeked into the bathroom watching as JJ held
his father's hair back. “Oh dear I got here just in time,” D turned and smiled
at Nana, his smile faded as he got a look at Leon carrying a suitcase and a
small dog. Leon
simply shrugged.

“Ah… she can stay in the
nursery,” Leon
suggested and thought of the spare bed that had been moved into his office. He
doubted that JJ's grandmother wanted to stay in his office with his television
and computer equipment.

“Right,” D said, he place
his hand on his wiggling tummy and waddled gracefully down the hallway.

“Now, now Jemi-Dear, move
aside here dearie, drink this.” Nana held a cup up to Lord D's lips. Lord D
tried not to heave and accepted the cup willing to do anything to quell the
rolling of his stomach. Lord D sipped and waited a beat. He smiled; he wasn't
going to throw up. “Its barley water, now where is your kitchen I'll make him
some un-yeasted bread. Finish your cup dearie Jemi you put him to bed.” Nana
bustled about Leon
shrugged and led her to the kitchen.

Break

Lord D peered at the bread
Nana held out to him and thought of the long night spent in the bathroom.
“Don't worry; I have been dealing with expectancies for a long time, my dear, a
long time. You may have a medical degree, but you do not a mother's know-how.”
Nana said ignoring the fact that Lord D was many centuries her senior. Lord D
smiled wanly and accepted the bread. He took a tentative bite and waited after
a beat he remembered how voraciously hungry he was and finished the bread in
very few bites. After his third piece JJ smiled grateful at his Nana before he
fell over beside Lord D asleep. Nana smiled and covered them both tucking them
in before she bustled out of the room shutting the door softly behind her.

Break

The chime over the pet
shop door opened and Sofu D looked up and smiled. His smile froze as he looked
at Randolph,
“detective, how may I help you?” Sofu sighed internally and looked off down the
hall way he frowned slightly when he felt Lord D awaken. Hopefully he would
stay in his room. In his condition it was not a good idea for him to come
across this particular detective.

“So, who am I speaking to
now?” Randolph
said and leaned against the counter.

“I am Sofu D the Count D
who owns this shop,” Sofu said and flipped his cropped hair. Randolph stared into Sofu's golden eyes.

Randolph smirked, “I finally caught you
guys in a lie, Count D claims his grandpa owns this shop and you are no one's
grandpa.” Randolph
looked around the shop he smiled as he noted a pale long haired figure leaning
against the wall. Lord D sighed, oh what he had been reduced to. He was sipping
barley water and clutching bread in order to remain upright.

“Father... Have you seen
JJ?” Lord D said and looked around the room he frowned at Randolph.

Randolph walked over to him, “Why do you
call him father?” Randolph
demanded. He reached to grab Lord D's arm but noted the ill look on his face. Randolph paused, “You're
going to be ill aren't you?” JJ rounded the corner then and rushed forward he
took Lord D's arm and rushed him to the bathroom that was off the side of the
parlor of the shop. Randolph
heard him retching.

JJ ran from the bathroom.
“Stay here Darling, I'll go after Nana she was last brushing the dog. Just stay
here,” JJ said and walked off down the hall.

“I don't think he will be
going any where any time soon,” Sofu said softly causing Randolph's attention to return to him. “What
do you want?” Sofu said with an exasperated sigh and frown. “You do realize
that I don't like you and unlike my son and grandson, I do not have the
patience to suffer fools.”

“You'll suffer me until I
have your ass behind bars,” Randolph
almost growled the words at Sofu who raised one single brow before he turned to
look behind him.

“D child, return to your
room now,” Sofu said he turned and smiled at D to lessen the harshness of his
command. “We have an uninvited guest.” D placed his hand on his tummy and
hurried back the way he had come. “Randolph,
please, meet my wife.” Sofu D smiled charmingly and
waved Lady Aurora forward. JJ returned with his Nana who smiled at the petite
vampire before she bustled into the bathroom and pulled Lord D to his feet.
“Dearest, have you eaten today?” Lady Aurora smiled voraciously and walked
towards Randolph who stared as if in a trance at the beautiful woman before
him.

“Mother, father no,” Lord
D said around a mouthful of un-yeasted bread. (“He would be missed, by his
family and the police force. If you must be rid of him, bind him with a
contract.”) Lord D smiled for the first time in two days and headed off to
his bed. Sofu smiled and began to think of the perfect pet to sell to the most
annoying detective he had ever met.

Break

Leon thought D had never looked
lovelier. D slipped his arms through the sleeves of the large skirted
cheongsam. D pulled the belt just over his tummy and stood gazing into a
mirror. Leon
pulled a brush through his hair and pulled a ribbon out and tied it around the
silken tresses. “Detective Randolph
is here annoying grandfather. Grandfather has been in a fowl mood lately, I
wonder what he will do with the simpleton.”

The better question is,” Leon said and
took D's hand and walked with him to the kitchen. They passed Chris on the way
and D took his hand as well. The small family made their way to the dinner
table. “Why is Sofu in such a rotten mood?” Leon held a chair out for D as Sofu
joined them at the table with a sweet smile.

“Grandfather... what have
you done?” D said he looked up when his father and JJ joined them. Lord D had
naturally pale skin but D was worried when he looked at his father.

“I am fine Child,” Lord D
said and beamed at Nana who smiled knowingly at Sofu and winked. “Father I am
as curious as D, what have you done?”

“Randolph has decided that Q-Chan is somehow
connected to the deaths with a few hints from me naturally.” Sofu said and
began to eat his dinner with delicate gusto. “And so he is going to keep Q-Chan
for several days and will study how we operate without the influence of our
'freaky little bird'.” Lord D tried not to grin. “I have not gotten around to
binding him with a contract, but if dealing with our dear sweet Q-Chan does not
teach him a lesson about dealings in China
Town, I don't know what
will.”

“Grand father, It is very difficult for men like Randolph to learn anything,” D said and
smiled when his stomach began to wiggle. Lord D laughed and was glad that he
was not going to be ill.

Break

Bikky stood holding tight
to Ryo's hand and watched as the strange woman approached their table at the
restaurant. She stood and gave him a warm smile. “Bikky, hello you can call me
Auntie Cathy.” She said. Bikky took in her deep brown skin and warm brown eyes
and smiled shyly at her.

“This is my daddy Ryo and
my father Dee.” Bikky introduced her, “I know you are probably a really nice
lady, but I don't want to live with you.”

“Do you remember me?”
Cathy asked still smiling despite the way Bikky had not reached for her hand
but still clung to Ryo's. “I am your late father's sister.”

“My biological father died
a while ago, and we were still in New
York for a few years, why are you here now?” Bikky
asked with a raised brow that Ryo knew he had to have learned from Dee.  Ryo winced
and silently blamed Dee for Bikky's
straightforwardness. Cathy smiled and vowed to somehow get through to her
nephew. Bikky looked at Ryo and smiled. Cathy noted the way Bikky held on to
Ryo’s hand. Cathy glared at Ryo, if he planned to keep Bikky, she would not
pull any punches.

Chapter 7:

On and On We Go

Lord D inhaled and waited,
then he exhaled and waited some more. JJ stood with a bucket and waited for the
verdict. “I am not going to be ill,” Lord D announced triumphantly as if he had
just ran a fifty mile run. JJ grinned at him and helped him dress for the day.
Lord D was smiling when he walked into the front of the shop he saw his father
signing a new contract and sending a lonely novelist off with his new pet
dingo. Lord D raised a brow and sat beside D who heaved and fanned himself.

“It's so warm today,” D
remarked and fanned faster Lord D nodded sympathetically as JJ removed the
screen that had blocked D from the view of the patron. “Has anyone see Leon?” D asked
he pouted when there were no affirmative answers. “I am beginning to think he
cares more for the police department than the changes I am constantly going
through, everything is so new and I have gotten so large, maybe he can't stand
to look at me.” D sniffled and JJ backed away in a panic. Leon walked
into the shop and saw D near tears.

“What's up with you now?” Leon asked
sounding tired. Lord D followed JJ from the room as Sofu also left Leon alone to
console D.

“Now, my, my detective! I am so sorry to inconvenience you with MY
many problems!” D struggled to his feet and wiped away his tears replacing them
with anger.

“Oh God, D. Not today, ok,
Baby. I am exhausted,” Leon
said and flopped onto the couch and picked up D's cup of lemonade. He took a
long sip ignoring the sweetness that curdled his tongue.

“You're exhausted!” D turned and glared at
Leon
with a delicate hand fisted in anger. “I am carrying more weight than your
average slob of an American, namely you, will ever have to carry. I am only
able to wear certain skirted ensembles because, although I can fit the pants to
my outfits, it is too much trouble to get them on. I am sick and tired of being
tired. I can not find a comfortable position to sleep in, if I lay on my back
it feels as if my spine is going to crack under the weight of my stomach, I
dare not lay on my stomach and when I lay on my side I get bruises, so don't
you dare sit there and tell ME that YOU are exhausted!”

Leon stared wide eyed at D
and edged closer to the back of the couch, “Jeez, Baby, get a hold of
yourself,” Leon said and hoped D would sit and calm himself, D made a sound
that Leon decided was close to a growl. D bent over and Leon ducked and
waited for the shoe to bounce off his head. Leon looked up when he felt D's
weight bounce next to him on the couch. Leon heard a sniffle and looked up
to see D sobbing. “Baby, I'm sorry, what's wrong, what did I do?”

D shook his head and
sniffled, “I can't reach my feet.” Leon paused and thought, lately he
had been putting D's shoes on him in the morning, or D wore slip-ons that he
could simply slide his feet into. Leon heaved a sigh and refused to
laugh. He simply leaned over D and removed one of the small shoes and handed it
to him and waited for D to hit him with it. D raised his hand, then lowered it and his head. His shoulders shook and Leon feared he
was sobbing. D raised his head and Leon saw that he was laughing.

“I love you so much,” Leon said, he was laughing when the shop door
opened to admit Ryo, Dee, Bikky and Carol.
Billy was smiling broadly; his aunt had bought him several gifts trying to gain
his favor. He had told her on many occasions that she could not buy his
affections; she claimed she just wanted to give him things. Bikky accepted them
and shared them with Chris. “Did we miss something?” Dee
asked and stepped aside when Bikky and Carol ran off to find Chris, their pets
close on their heels.

“What do you mean
detectives?” D asked and refused to admit to them that he could not reach his
feet. Leon
took the shoe and placed it on D's small foot.

“God, you've gotten so
huge,” Dee said to D and patted his heaving
tummy. D somehow managed a smile and a frown all at the same time.

“Ahem,” Ryo said and
winked pointing to a letter on the counter that had yet to be opened. He noted
the royal Arcadian seal. “We got a letter from the Arcadian King himself
telling us to come here today and to bring Carol and Bikky.” Ryo explained and
showed Leon
the brief note he had folded in his pocket. Leon perused the note frowning and
handed it to D who shrugged. Ryo opened his mouth to say something and paused
when the door opened and a very tired Andy stumbled in followed by Nestoir,
Daphnus and King Zarro.

“I am sure you are all
puzzled by the events taking place,” Zarro said, Andy sat beside D and smiled
wanly placing a hand on D's tummy. Zarro waited and as if they had been called,
Lord D, JJ, Sofu and Nana walked into the parlor. “I have come personally to
inform you that this shop will be closed for an indefinite amount of time, and
all occupants currently withal will be removed to Arcadia for their own safety. Detectives, Diana
Spacey and Jill will be commandeered as well.” Zarro stood and bowed formally
at Nana, “Where is...” Zarro looked at Sofu, then D and sighed, “Q-Chan?”

“The little beast shall be
returned within a few more hours of driving Detective Randolph insane, he has
been keeping the little critter for a little over two weeks now, and I would
say he is sufficiently rattled by now.” Sofu said with a smirk knowing his wife
all too well.

“Cut it short and summon
her now,” Zarro said, “we will need to leave immediately.”

“What is the problem?”
Nana asked the king when she noted his worried frown.

Zarro heaved a great sigh,
“war.”

Break

Sofu D walked up the
stairs and raised his hand to knock on the door only to have it open and Randolph stood there
shoving Q-Chan at him with an exasperated sigh. “Take this damnable beast and
be gone from my sight,” Randolph
yelled and slammed the door. Sofu stared silently at Q-Chan who preened. Sofu D
smiled at the little creature and could almost see Lady Aurora's smug grin.
Sofu vanished from the porch and vowed to ask his wife just how she had driven
the detective insane but right now he had to return to the shop and help his
son with the preparations.

Lady Aurora assumed her
true shape when they entered the shop and gasped then fell weakly against Sofu.
“Have you eaten?” Sofu asked worriedly. He felt the warmth coming from her skin
and knew that she was not hungry. Lady Aurora's knees weakened and she
collapsed to the floor.

“Mother,” Sofu looked up
to see Lord D standing in the doorway with T-Chan and D. Lord D rushed to his
mother and placed a hand to her head, “does she need blood?”

“There is none here that
can aid her,” Sofu said, Ryo, Dee, Bikky and Carol had returned to their homes
to pack for the extended stay on Arcadia.
“The children can not be expected to, and should we give her our blood she
would surely die. As it is, she is not lacking blood.” Sofu stared at Lady
Aurora and frowned, she was fine when she was shaped like Q-Chan, it was only her true shape that was affected.

“So it is happening here
as well?” King Zarro said and sighed heavily. “It is just as I feared, actually
before we go to Arcadia, it is necessary for us
to travel to New Orleans.
All of our correspondences has been intercepted. I
have lost several of my people, so I will go myself.”

“Your Majesty, I can not
allow that, I will take a message to the Lady Heaven myself,” Sofu said worried
about the king traveling in such dangerous times.

“And who will care for
your child and grandchild?” Zarro asked he looked up when the door opened and
admitted a small crowd of people. “Your highness,” Zarro said to Andy. Andy
smiled wanly and sat in a chair.

“Your Majesty, it is not
recommended that any one travel to Arcadia
as of yet, the entrance is being watched and we would surely be attacked. The
war is on the western shores and should we move now it would surely break into
the human world which we can not allow,” Andy wiped tears from her face. “It
seems that Dae is trying to kill only one of us, my husband,” Andy sobbed
again.

Nestoir walked into the
pet shop and sat nursing his side, “don't worry dearest, it is just a small
wound, but Daphnus thought it best of me to leave the field.” Nestoir sighed
and inhaled when Andy ripped his shirt from him. Andy began to gasp and cry
while looking at the angry red wound.

“Why haven't you healed
yet?” She demanded.

Nestoir sighed and
accepted the new shirt that D summoned for him. “I have,” he said simply. Andy sighed;
she knew that if the wound was this bad and he had healed himself, it had to
have started off much worse.

“We shall all go to New
Orleans and since I am sure that Sofu, Lord D and Lady Clarisande would have a
fit if D traveled by plane in his condition” King Zarro said and rubbed his
aching brow. “We will take the train, and we will leave this afternoon, I want
everyone ready in one hour, if we leave suddenly it will be less possible for
them to trace us.”

“D shouldn't be seen in
public,” Leon
said worried for his dear Count.

“That will be taken care
of,” King Zarro said, “D is beautiful enough to pass for a female, it is only his voice that gives him away. All we have to do
is tell anyone who asks that he does not speak English, and so that we do not
insult his gender, just say that D does not speak English and avoid calling him
a she.” King Zarro shoved to his feet tiredly, “Shall we,” he asked and headed
for the door. “The others will meet us at the station.”

“How?” Leon asked
wanting to know how the King had gotten a message to them all when he had not
left the shop or used the telephone. King Zarro smiled and left the pet shop.
Sofu hung the closed sign and made sure the animals were packed away in
suitcases. Leon
had wondered how it was managed, but said nothing. T-Chan and a few other
creatures were walking about in their animal forms and being pets of the
occupants of the pet shop.

Break

Many people stopped and
stared in awe at the beautiful happy family that prepared to board the train.
It was not everyday that such happiness was seen. The small family was adorable.
An older lady approached the family, unable to help herself, “young man, your
son is the spitting image of you,” she remarked to Leon. Chris held tight to D's hand
and smiled at the old lady. “Dear, how many months are you?”

“Seven,” Leon answered, “D
doesn't know much English.” The lady stared charmingly at D and smiled D moved
gracefully away from her outstretched hand and avoided being touched without
seeming to be rude. D smiled and followed King Zarro to a private train car.
The train began moving and Lord D heaved and rushed from his seat, JJ sighed
and followed him.

Break

A bedraggled group stood
outside the doorway of a posh high rise apartment. The door opened and a young
man with dark hair and bright blue eyes stood there smiling at them. “Ah you
must be Heaven's friends. She saw you earlier in town today and warned me to
make extra dinner, I made veggie jambalaya, my name is
Shawn by the way.” Shawn held out his hand.

Ryo stepped forward and
shook the young man's hand, “I'm Officer Randy MacLean, and this is...” As Ryo
went around with the introductions JJ took Lord D and led him to the couch and
helped him sit. Lord D stared at the small Kitten with bright red wings. The
creature touched Lord D's tummy and meowed quite loudly.

“Yes Eriza,” Ryo looked up
to see Heaven standing in a floor length white gown. Heaven folded her arms,
“He is carrying a child, Kami are quite wonderful
creatures are they not?” Shawn came from the kitchen carrying a bowl and
offered it to Lord D who blanched.

“Dear God, where is your
bathroom?” JJ asked, Heaven pointed silently in the proper direction. JJ lifted
Lord D to his feet and practically carried him to the bathroom. Shawn frowned
when he heard retching. Leon
grew worried when D paled.

“What, no, you have not
been sick in months,” Leon
exploded when D clamped a hand to his mouth and ran into a second bathroom that
Shawn pointed out. Leon
went and lifted the loose silken hair away from D's face. D wiped his mouth and
his brow.

“Sorry, it is not your
food believe me, as you can see, D is obviously pregnant, and Lord D is moving
right along in his first month,” Ryo explained. Dee
carried a sleeping Chris to a bed and lay him down. “We just spent the greater
part of three days listening to Lord D hurl and D has
not been sleeping well, please excuse our condition. The only one who has
traveled well is Nana it seems, The King is tired.”

“King?” Shawn said and
stared at the smallish man sitting silently on his couch..

“Yes, I am tired,” King
Zarro said and reached for the bowl that Shawn was still holding. “Bethany is with her
father I suppose?” Shawn nodded, Zarro would have said more, but Heaven gasped
and clutched her middle. “No, not here too,” King Zarro took Heaven into his
arms and held her steady. Heaven's eyes turned red, and then clear blue. “Are
you alright?” King Zarro asked her.

“My fangs are gone,”
Heaven said she blinked and gasped again. “Zarro I beg of you. Kill me now,
while the vampire blood is suppressed, I can go home.”

"I would never do
such a thing, not only for the sake of the father, but yours as well,” Zarro
said and sighed feeling bad for Heaven. Lord D gratefully accepted a cup of
barley water and gulped it down. “We should leave for Arcadia soon, from here; I can safely create
an exit, shall we?” Heaven gave Zarro a fulminating glare and stomped through
the opening.

Break

Lord D lay down thankfully
on the feather soft bed and decided that he would sleep for several days, he would give D his checkup when he awakened. JJ found
Lord D and frowned. He had lost so much weight. JJ pulled Lord D into his arms
and held him tightly, my dearest love...” JJ said and brought Lord D's slack
hand to his lips before he joined him in slumber.

Break

Ryo leaned against a wall
and watched Bikky sleeping peacefully with Chris, Cujo and T-Chan. Dee placed
his hand on his hips and pulled him forward. “How about you and I investigate
the garden?” Dee said softly in Ryo's ear. Ryo
smiled and yawned and prepared to nod, he had missed Dee's
loving. “How about we do it when you are not exhausted?” Ryo smiled, glad of
the times when Dee proved just how sweet and
understanding he could be. Ryo sighed happily and fell into bed asleep almost
instantly. Dee crawled in behind him and sat
holding Ryo in his arms. On the train ride from hell Ryo had taken care of the
children and animals, he was understandably out of it. Dee
placed a kiss behind Ryo's ear and went to sleep.

Break

Leon sat on a balcony holding D in his
arms and caressed his tummy. “I love you,” Leon said and kissed D's smooth
cheek. D smiled and sat securely in Leon's
lap and watched the sun set over Arcadia.
D was about to remark on the beauty when he heard sobbing he looked up and saw
Heaven on a balcony not too far from there clinging to her room mate and crying
as if her very heart were broken in two.

Chapter 8:

Night Fall

Zarro was not pleased. As
he stared at the young gryphon's who had told him the news that the enemy was
at the gate demanding Sofu D be handed over to them. “My wonderful roundabout
way of travel was of no use.” Zarro said and looked around his throne room
making sure that no one would be upset by his captain's news. Seeing that D and
Lord D were no where to be found Zarro continued. “Open the Consulate house in Los Angeles. Have all the
detectives mail forwarded there and Detective MacLean
can continue his custody battles from there.” Zarro stood, “now I know why he
has something infecting all the vampires, he fears your wife.”

Sofu nodded and glowered
at the dying fire in the ornate fireplace, “has Lady Clarisande found any clues
as to what is being used to make the vampires ill?” Zarro shook his head.

“She has been down there
for a long time now working nonstop,” Zarro looked up to see Heaven standing
near in her pristine white clothing. She glared at the King before she turned
to Sofu, “Your son is looking for you, he says he is going to give D a checkup
and if you would like to be present...” Heaven trailed off and showing great
disrespect to her King, she stalked off.” Sofu stood and bowed to Zarro noting
his pained expression before he went to the palace room that had been given
over to his family.

Break

Leon stood and stared at D sitting
under a tree napping with his hand on his tummy. Chris sat beside him asleep as
well with his small head in what was left of D's lap. His stomach sat in most
of his lap and Leon
knelt beside him and placed one hand on his shoulder and the the other gently on his tummy. D opened his eyes and smiled
sleepily at Leon.
Leon
lowered his head and kissed D's soft smile. “Your dad is calling for your
checkup, better hurry before he works himself into a fit.” Leon picked Chris up into his arms
and smiled, the boy had not stirred and simply wrapped
his arms tighter around his older brother.

D wobbled to the side and
giggled, “A little help,” He looked up at Leon who smiled and reached out a
hand for his love.

“How did you get down
there?” Leon
pulled D to his feet.

D sighed with a sweet
smile that melted Leon’s
heart where it beat in his chest. “Very carefully.” He said and followed Leon from the
Queen's garden. Lord D ushered D into a room and onto an examination table.
“Father, you are well?” D asked when his father seemed heartier than he had
seen him in over three weeks now. Lord D nodded towards the large chalice of
herbs that Lady Clarisande had sent to him. Sofu entered the room and D blushed
wishing to pull his robe closer about his body. Lord D sighed and accepted the
gel from his father and began to look at the child grown so much in such a
short mount of time.

“Have you begun to have
trouble walking?” Lord D asked D who nodded and felt his father's hand on his
lower back assisting him to a sitting position. D sat still when his father
traced up his spine. Lord D then ran his fingertips lightly over D's palm. D
curled his finger slightly and smiled. “How about breathing?” Lord D said, “Are
you having any difficulties?”

“Only if I lay on my
back,” D answered. Sofu nodded at his son before he plugged in another
contraption to the ultrasound machine. D lay back and wondered what they were
up too. Leon
was silent as he listened to the sound of the child's heart beat coupled with
D's. D grinned and forgot that he had two members of his family looking over
his body. Lord D moved down between his son's legs and felt the opening that
was steadily growing larger in preparation for the birthing. Now D blushed
brightly glad his grandfather was otherwise occupied with wiping his stomach
clean of the gel and undoing the machine. “Next appointment is in one week.”
Lord D said glad that he himself was not scheduled for another two weeks.

Break

Ryo looked at the Lawyer
as if he had just grown horns. “What does that have to do with anything?” Dee demanded for Ryo seemed incapable of speech. Bikky
glowered at the lawyer and clutched Ryo's hand. The lawyer smiled at the
resulting shock and horror at his comments; here he could find something he
thought.

“No I have not seen Ryo
and Dee having...” Bikky paused and looked away. “I have seen more kisses and
touches from the Arcadian King and Queen than the few kisses from Ryo and Dee.”
The lawyer nodded and stood, Bikky glared at him. “This is not making me want
to spend time with my aunt as a matter of fact, I'm
starting to hate her for hurting the two people who mean the most to me. Tell
her that for me.” Bikky turned his back to the man who frowned and thought of
ringing the kid's neck.

“So the Arcadian King and
Queen, are they associates of yours?” The lawyer asked.

“None of your business,”
Bikky said and folded his arms.

The lawyer smiled tightly
planning to indeed pass a message on to his employer, a message of just how
they might win this battle and earn the state funds to care for the poor
orphan. He left with a sly smile. Ryo sat numbly in a chair and looked up when
he felt Dee's hand on his shoulder. “We will
beat this.” Dee said grimly Bikky nodded his
agreement and held tight to Ryo's hand. “You can't let him talk around you like
that.” Dee commanded, “You give him as good as
he gets, I know you have more balls than that.” Dee
said he refrained from mentioning the placement of said appendages just last
night but he licked his lips and smirked at Ryo who blushed and nodded. Ryo
wiped his face, vowing to beat this, to be strong, for Bikky, his son.

“Do you have the name of
the lawyer that Andy gave us?” Ryo asked breathing in deeply. Dee
nodded and looked at the paper before he handed it over to Ryo. “Charis
Krystalis, hmmm. I hope she can help us.” Ryo said and dialed the number, the
voice on the other end sounded familiar, but Ryo thought nothing of it. He hung
up and grinned. “She has agreed to seer us, she is
coming to the consulate tomorrow at noon.” Ryo said excitedly. Bikky grinned
and cheered as Dee began to lead them from
this particular lawyer's office. They had been summoned to speak with Cathy's
lawyer and now, she would soon get a summons to speak to theirs, they would not
go down easily.

Break

Sofu D sat beside his
prostrate wife and sighed. Her skin was cool to the touch and though he spooned
blood into her mouth she had not improved. The King came to visit her often and
felt bad that he had thus been unable to aid his ailing subjects. “they are still calling for me to go out of here and meet
them, but the king has refused.” Sofu said and sighed trying not to feel
desolate at his wife's continued lack of consciousness. The door opened and
Clarisande walked in talking to Lady Chimera.

“I swear,” Clarisande
muttered angry at her inability to see through what was ailing the vampire
population. “It can not be in the air, vampires do not breath.
Humans are not affected, or Heaven would be a full angel by now and we are not
affected.” Clarisande stamped her foot, “I am done with medicinal causes, now I
am going to go through magic.”

“But can your magic be
used for such a purpose?” Chimera asked worried that her friend's holy magic
would reject the vampires. Clarisande simply shrugged before she looked in on
Lady Aurora and left Sofu to his vigil.

Break

Leon sat at the table with Jill and
Diana who had been sharing a room with Carol. Diana had been given a flying
tour of Arcadia
on Jash's broad back. She was now breathlessly telling the girls of the
benefits of going on a date with a man who had wings. Jash laughed, he was glad
that Diana no longer feared his true shape. JJ held Lord D's hand and was glad
that color had returned to his cheeks and he seemed able to eat more. Lord D
had made JJ promise not to tell his Nana that it was Clarisande who had cured
his queasiness. JJ had gladly agreed, his loved his Nana and knew her feelings
would be trampled on if she knew her home made remedies had only paused his
symptoms, but Clarisande had cured them completely.

Lord D was now the picture
of health and quit looking forward to helping his son deliver his child. D sat
at the table and dozed, his plate had been refilled twice and now he sat
leaning against Leon.
Leon
made their excuses and pulled D to his feet and led him to their bedroom. He
left the balcony doors wide open with only the dark blue silk curtains drawn to
keep out light for the wind was pleasant and sweet smelling blowing in off of
the Queen's fabulous garden. Leon
undressed D and laughed when he began to prop pillows around himself. “What's
so amusing my dear detective?” D asked tartly when Leon continued to grin.

“What are you doing?” Leon asked
instead.

“If you must know,” D said
and propped another pillow up before he lay on his side. “The pillows take much
of the weight; I can sleep better this way.” Leon noted that D's stomach was
resting on the pillows. “Are you coming to bed now?” D asked. It was still too
early for Leon
to go to sleep, but he undressed and crawled in behind D and held him tight.

“You know I love you
right?” Leon
said and nuzzled D's milky white neck.

D placed his hand over Leon's where it
rested on his stomach and smiled. “I know, believe me my dearest detective, I
know.” Leon
swore he was not sleepy, but within moments, he was resting peacefully with D
cradled in his arms.

Break

T-Chan growled low and
sniffed the air, something was not right in the air
outside of the consulate office. He and some of the other animals had begun to
patrol the area alongside the King's guards. The Honlon looked down from her
position on the roof and gave a nod that they sensed the disturbance as well.
T-Chan waved at the Dragon who raised her mighty wings and floated down to join
him on the ground. A guard stopped short and wondered at the gathering of
creatures. “Ten-Chan, go and make sure that all of the D's
are safe, then gather them in one room, they will be easier to protect if they
are in a defensible room.” T-Chan said. The young Fox Lord nodded and ran
silently into the quiet house.

“This,” the Lioness said
to T-Chan, “could also be a reason for harming the vampires. It is an attempt to
weaken our defenses in a night attack.” Lyonene growled and prepared for
whatever was making its way to the consulate.

“I will have angel
encapsulate the area so that the mortal world will not be disturbed by the
presence of this heinous evil that threatens us.” King Zarro said and went into
the consulate to prepare his troops for the battle that crept steadily towards
them.

Break

Leon opened his bedroom door and
wondered at the small crowd that walked in. He saw JJ and Nana with a sleepy
Lord D. Sofu walked in carrying his wife and Andy entered and Lay little
Nicklaus on the bed beside D who had struggled to a sitting position. He looked
confused at Chris, Bikky, Carol and several of the pet shop's animal population
that filed in. “King Zarro said we have to stay here, it is the easiest room to
defend.”

“Defend?” Leon said when
he felt the foundation tremble. Leon
gasped and pulled Little Nicklaus in his arms and held the child close. Leon crawled
into the bed and held D steady. JJ brushed Lord D's hair aside and sat him
beside his son. Lord D drank a goblet of herbs from Clarisande and leaned
against the headboard. Sofu utilized a couch in the room and placed Aurora upon it. “Would
someone mind telling me what is going on?”

“There is someone is about
to attack us, and so the king thought that all that needs to be protected
should be in one place and heavily guarded.” T-Chan said,
he and the animals of the shop had elected to stay with the D's and protect
them. They also had High Princess Andy and Princess Tisiphone ready to kill
anyone who managed to make it past the first defenders of the Arcadian realm.
Sofu stood beside them ready to use his powers. JJ and Leon were armed with
Guns from Chimera and as the night drew on, they waited.

Break

Ryo waited with bated
breath for whatever was coming. Now was not the time for their life to be in
peril. If they died, Cathy would get Bikky by default. Ryo ground his teeth and
vowed that would not happen. He and Dee were getting out of this alive and the
scum approaching would forever regret that they had tried to attack the
consulate, with the king in residence no less. Dee
looked down at his gun appreciatively and wondered if he could convince Chimera
to part with it permanently. He saw the determined look on Ryo's face and could
not help but lean over and kiss his lover. Ryo returned the kiss with all the
pent up adrenaline.

The sound of metal sliding
out of it's sheath broke them apart. He looked at
Nestoir who grinned, “Here comes our evening's entertainment.” Angel tossed a
glowing ball into the air and they were ensconced in a shimmering boundary. Dee swore at the army that was now visible. He clenched
his fist and made sure his gun was loaded and ready. Ryo smiled reassuringly at
him before he too his position beside the king and prepared to protect all they
held dear.

Chapter 9:

To Arms

Leon sat on the bed and held his gun
ready. D was tensely watching Andromache pace back and forth her sword swinging
at her hip with each angry step she took. Chris slept blissfully unaware of his
surroundings holding tight to D's bed robe. Heaven paced back and forth the
glistening white of her long gown brushing the plush maroon carpet. Every now
and then a sniffle could be heard. “Are you all right my lady?” Lord D asked
holding his stomach which had grown queasy despite Clarisande's herbal punch.

“Father, please sit,” D
said. Lord D smiled at his son and sat. Andy sat on the floor and began to feed
Little Nicklaus, careful to remain underneath her blanket. D watched her
silently for a moment before he turned his eyes to his father. “Father... I'm
not going to develop...” D blushed and looked away.

“Your child will drink the
same formula that your father and you yourself was fed.” Sofu said with a
knowing grin at his now embarrassed son and grandson. “There is the milk of the
Mirandia plant; it provides all we Kami need. However seeing as how the
children you are now bearing carry Human genes, they will also need the baby
formula's that can be found in any grocery store in the world, you do not need
to worry.”

“What is a Mirandia
plant?” Leon
asked. Andy had readjusted her blouse and was steadily burping her baby.

“The Mirandia plant is a
close relative of the Maisia and the Gattalotta plant. It grows in the Kami
gardens and is similar to the coconut in that is has large fruits that bear
milk.” Lord D said, and Leon
was confused. He was about to say something, but he noted D's strained
expression. D placed a small finely boned hand against his stomach which
cramped mercilessly. Lord D scooted closer to his son and placed his hands on
his large tummy. “The stress of the past week is not good for you. Just relax,”
Lord D allowed his mind to search within his son's body and relieve the cramps
caused by the tension. Leon
began to sweat as D grew pale and panted. Lord D sighed and leaned back when D
quieted and began to rest peacefully with his eyes closed.

Leon placed his hand on D's forehead
and sighed. D was fast asleep. “Papa D,” Leon said softly and leaned down to
kiss the place where his hand had been. “Do you think he will deliver early?”

Lord D sighed, “I hope
not, it will do him no good. He and the child need the time to gather their
strength for the delivery. They need this month.” Lord D patted his son's
stomach. He noted JJ staring worriedly at him. “There is less of a risk for me
because I am older and my body is stronger than his.” JJ nodded and glanced
sadly at D who clutched a pillow and continued to sleep peacefully. Sofu patted
his wife's cold hand and prayed that she would open her eyes.

Break

Ryo stood with his gun ready;
he heard the sound of the army marching towards them. Dee
cocked his gun and smiled reassuringly. Ryo stared at the small white kitten
with bright red wings and wondered why she was there. Shouldn't she be inside
being protected? The little kitten hopped up on a tall blond man that he had
never seen before. The man was dressed similarly to D's cheongsams. Prince
Angel approached Daphnus and showed him an image in his glowing Orb. “Mon Dieu,” Daphnus exclaimed reverting
to his native tongue in his agitation. “Andy, Alert!” He shouted into his hand
held communicator.

Break

Andy stared at her
communicator with horror. “Alert?” She asked her voice trembling in fear. Andy
stood and placed her child on the bed with D. She unsheathed her sword. “Why am
I alert?” She asked Daphnus, Andy waited with baited breath. Bikky stood next
to her his eyes dazzled by the gleaming sword she held. Carol trembled holding
tight to Jill's hand.

“Because, they are not
sending one army at us... there are two. There are Dalla beasts headed your
way.” Daphnus voice came through angry and accented.

Andy sighed and closed her
communicator. “How big of a threat is this?” Leon asked looking at D who still
slept unaware that his life was in peril.

“Well. Daphnus started
speaking French and his accent is back. The only time he can't control it
is...” Andy paused as a large gust of wind hit the balcony and shook the entire
room. D sat up in bed looking panicked.

“Calm down baby,” Leon said and
took D's round figure into his arms. “We'll protect you all of you.” D
whimpered and tried to calm Chris who had awakened and grew frightened at the
continued shaking of their room.

“They want us to open a
portal to Arcadia
and shove you guys through. Sorry, but we can't put the kingdom in jeopardy like
that.” Andy said and stared at the gathering dark cloud outside the glass doors
of the balcony. “We will stop them here.”

“Wait, all that time,
those roundabout routes we took to get here to this consulate, and they still
are going to try it.” Andy fumed and stomped to the doors; she flung them open
and prepared to battle the horned creature that awaited her. “You will die
here, when you get back to hell, tell your master, I said hi and that he can
kiss my ass...” Andy swung her sword and Leon winced when he heard the sound
of metal hit something that sounded like bones.

“Diana, Jill, protect the
bed.” JJ said and helped Carol onto the bed; he tossed the covering over D,
Nana and the children. “Sofu, you stay here and use whatever mysterious power
you have and protect them.”

Sofu looked up and nodded
approvingly at the young man his son had fallen in love with. “There is no need
to worry over much,” Sofu patted D's trembling hand and smiled at him. JJ
joined Leon and Andy on the balcony and began to rain bullets at the creature
that howled in pain and charged.

“Watch the tail,” Andy
yelled and Leon
jumped back, his shirt singed by the heat emanating from the creature. JJ's
finger was getting a cramp from pulling the trigger so often and he wished he
had a machine gun that could fire off many bullets with one shot. He looked
down to see the gun in his hand that glowed and he smiled. With one pull of the
trigger he let out many bullets.

“Where the hell did you
get that from?” Leon
demanded. Wishing he too had a weapon of note. He looked down at the golden
Night Wing (Note: These are the names of Chimera's guns). Leon gasped and
grinned at the gun that appeared waiting for him to start shooting. “All right,
let's party.” Leon
joined the fray. Diana joined them on the balcony. “What are you doing, protect
the be...d” Leon
paused when he looked into the room and saw Sofu levitating above it. Strong
gust of wind were flowing from his fingertips and swirling around the
circumference of the bed protecting all within. “Right, I always knew that
Grand pa D had some scary tricks up his sleeves.” Leon said and shrugged returning to
the task at hand.

Break

Dee was tired, but he was starting to
enjoy himself. This was true war. He saw a demon closing in on Ryo and
glowered. “Oh no you don't,” Dee shot the
beast and sighed when it collapsed. Ryo looked up at him and grinned. Dee winked and ducked as a sword came dangerously close
to his head. “Hey, Daphnus, watch it.”

“Excusez mo, I am not used to pedestrians that I can not kill.”
Daphnus said and picked Dee up. Dee was surprised by the strength of the young High
Prince. “Carious, you get to the bed room and help your lady, Chihaya and
Kagetsuya, you follow Carious. Morphile and Dochan,” Daphnus called and Dee felt himself free falling and landed on the tawny
hide of a large winged horse with glowing golden eyes. He looked over and saw
Ryo being treated similarly by Nestoir.

Ryo looked amazed at the
gray mount and held in a yelp as he and the mount went into the sky. Ryo palmed
his gun and fired glad his mount knew what to do, for he had no clue how to fly
this thing.

Break

Andy grinned and sank her
sword into the roof of the creatures’ mouth. With its mouth stuck open Andy
shot bolts of purple lightning into its mouth. She noted extra gunfire coming
from behind the beast and felt a tugging on her shirt. Andy flipped into the
air at the tugging and landed on Carious' broad back. “My Lady, we are here to
reinforce you.” Carious said and kicked the beast that came at her. It spit the
sword into the air and Andy raised a hand high and caught it as it came
gleaming flying back at her.

Pristine white wings
fluttered and a rain of more bullets came flying down around the head of the
beast. Black wings were barely visible while Chihaya flew around fast and tied
the creature with sparkling silver wires. “Compliments of Lady Tisiphone, she
will be here in about two...”

“Andy! Get down!”
Tisiphone yelled and ran into the room. She raised a blue bow and shot three
arrows in quick succession. The beast howled in pain. “Now Andy, there is
enough there for your lightning to really kick him in the teeth.” Andy grinned
and closed her eyes pointing her fingers. Lightning shot forth and the beast
lit up like a Christmas tree before it exploded. “Heh, heh, heh,” Tisiphone
laughed as Andy blew smoke from her finger tips. “Bring it on hell biz-natch.”
Tisiphone said laughing. Another Demon came forth and she prepared another
round of arrows. Andy giggled and picked up her sword.

Sofu's eyes sparkled with
joy as Lady Aurora opened her eyes when the first Demon had been slain. It must
have been him that was causing the Vampire's to languish. Heaven gasped and
collapsed to the floor crying tears of blood. She growled low in her throat and
stomped onto the balcony. The demons would pay for giving her a glimpse of home
and then snatching it away. Lord D almost felt bad for what ever beast got near
her first.

Break

“The more we kill the more
they come.” Dee gasped and leaned against the
mount. They had been fighting this war for hours and yet it seemed endless. He
saw the little kitten attacked by three demons. Dee
moved to shoot the creatures but heard terrible yowling the beasts were flung
back shredded to ribbons and Eriza flapped her red wings and flew above them
hissing. Dee whistled when the creatures did
not move.

Ryo looked at the prince
and then to Nestoir, he gasped at the cat-like eyes and fangs that made him
seemed possessed. Ryo stared in horror at the tall Blond man dressed in the
cheongsam opened his mouth to emit molten flames that took down a score of
beasts. Where they had fallen, twice as many charged. Daphnus looked over at him,
“Master Xi, pull back,” Daphnus sighed tiredly. “Chimera, Clarisande, Deipyros,
go and replace Andy, send her down here to us. We need the lights.” Daphnus
said softly. “The Arcadian Lights.”

Break

Andy stared wide eyed at
Chimera before she nodded and flew down with Carious. She pulled up beside her
husband and best friend. She nodded and raised her hands, “Heart of love,” She
called and purple light shot up to the sky with bolts of lightning coursing
through it.

Daphnus inhaled deeply and
raised his hands high, “Light of faith,” he shot deep purple lights darker than
Andy's with black lightning swirling through.

Nestoir raised his hands,
“Strength of hope,” blue light with golden lightning shot forth and joined the
bright sphere building in the sky.

Three voices rose in sync,
“Holy trinity we beg you from below, release your might from above and protect
those in need.” The sphere glowed brightly and pulsed resembling a heart beat.
Ryo and Dee winced covering their eyes as the ball of pure light grew.

Break

“Every body, if you are
not Arcadian, cover your eyes now,” Chimera yelled. JJ closed his eyes, Leon ducked his
head. D tossed the blanket over the children's heads and waited. After a moment
total silence covered them like a comforting blanket. Sofu sank unconscious
onto the bed beside his family. Heaven stood motionless by the railing of the
balcony sobbing as if her very heart had broken. Staring at the fading lights
that fell from the sky like tears made of stars.

“I can almost feel it...”
Heaven sobbed while Lord D placed his hand on Sofu's head and checked his
temperature. “I can almost feel it, what mother cried for almost every day
until the day she died.” Heaven lowered her head and sank to her knees. Leon gasped
feeling as if the world's greatest love touched him he looked over and gasped
for a moment, he thought he saw... The child, the same one that had led him back
to D after he had been shot was smiling at him. The child giggled before it
scampered off. Leon
blinked and fell to his backside smiling up at the sky. JJ was staring at Lord
D and Leon
knew that he was seeing almost the same thing. Leon crawled over to the bed for he
had lost the strength to walk. He pulled himself up and kissed D deeply.

“It's over,” Jill
announced and collapsed, her gun glowed and returned to it's
normal golden shape. Jill laughed, “We did it, we won.
Those Arcadians are amazing.” Jill would have said more, but Lord D gasped and
clutched his stomach. He was confused, he had already accommodated, what was
going on?” He wondered and tears fell from his eyes. Sofu blinked and opened
his eyes he sat up and winced. Pulling a small berry from his sleeve he popped
it in his mouth and reached for Lord D.

“Relax child, if you do
not relax you will miscarry.” Sofu said he placed his hand on Lord D's tummy.
“I am taking this power of my child to use as I see fit.” Lord D gasped when he
felt his father's mind enter his body and manually smooth out the cramps he
breathed and tried to smile at JJ to let him know that everything would be
alright. Lord D sobbed and tried to relax his body. Though his father was
working on him, it was a painful process, but one he would endure, for his son.
The one he carried.

“Father,” Lord D blinked,
was he dreaming, he had not heard that voice in centuries. “I'm coming
father...”

Chapter 10:

Get Ready... Get Set... GO!

Lord D lay sleeping
peacefully with JJ beside him. Prince Angel closed his hand dispelling the
crystal orb that had contained the war from the normal human world. JJ looked
at Sofu and frowned. “What was that strange scene I saw?” He asked. “I swear, I saw Darling holding our baby.” JJ remembered the scene
where Lord D had sat in a rocking chair holding a wrapped bundle and rocked
gently back and forth.

“Yes,” Sofu said softly
and patted D's hand. “And I am sure you saw your child as well.” He said to
Leon who nodded and tightened his hold on D. “That is the power of the Arcadian
lights, we were all touched by them, I went into overload and so I lost
consciousness.” Sofu smiled and looked adoringly at his wife. Lady Aurora
bounded from the bed and threw herself into her husband's arms. “My dearest
love,” Sofu said and placed kisses along her face. Lord D grinned and looked
away from his parents. “My lady,” Sofu said to Chimera, “is it safe for us to
return to our private quarters?”

Chimera blushed and looked
away from the loving couple, “when word comes from downstairs, you will be the
first to know.” She assured him and headed to the door. Heaven sat on the floor
and rocked herself gently back and forth. Shawn carefully pulled her to her
feet. She burst into tears and hugged him tightly. A young woman with dark
brown hair entered the room and sighed as she looked at them.

“Her father's blood
returned to her?” She said, “Oh sorry, my name is Bethany, I'm Master Xi's
daughter, and Shawn's fiancé.” Shawn looked up and smiled at Bethany and said no more, he knew his shirt
would be ruined by Heaven's bloody tears but held his friend regardless of that
fact.

Chimera sighed and nodded
to Lord D when she received word from the king that all was clear. Sofu scooped
his wife into his arms and carried her from the room. Leon waited
holding D until only the two of them remained in the room. “You okay
beautiful?” Leon
asked kissing the pearl like neck at his lips. D nodded and was glad for the
silence in their room. He looked at the clock and saw that it was four thirty in
the morning. He released a long yawn and snuggled closer to Leon. “What are
you doing?” Leon
said with a laugh.

“Help me,” D said
playfully and lay on his side. He placed one of Leon's
legs between his and used Leon's
arms, a pillow and Leon's
chest to securely hold his tummy. Leon smiled and gladly provided the
support needed. They were both sleeping soundly when Chris crawled into bed
with them and slept until late afternoon.

Break

Bikky knew he was older
now and sleeping in bed with Ryo was a bit childish, but... It was fun to see Dee grumbling while making room for he
and Carol to crawl in just like old times. Bikky was asleep before he could
think of ways to further taunt Dee, but then
again so was everyone else in the bed.

Break

Evening fell over the
Consulate before everyone was awake enough to enjoy a meal together. It was a
meal filled with laughter and good cheer. It was a meal devoid of the fear and
courage of the night before. It was a meal celebrating life that could continue
because of its many great defenders. Leon was amazed at the young man
with calf length blond hair that claimed to be Master Xi, or Lord Suzaku. Leon was further amazed to learn that the man
was a phoenix, great bird of flame and father to Bethany. It was also this regal man in the
brightly flame colored cheongsam that was the trainer responsible for D's
exceptional skills. He exclaimed over D's rounded figure and laughed when he
proclaimed that D would not be practicing for at least three months after the
child was born, but then he would be glad to whip him back into shape.

Lord D sat quietly, hoping
not to draw too much attention to his own condition which he shared with his
son. King Zarro had other plans, “So, Lord D, when is your expected delivery
date?” Lord D blushed and glared at his king.

“When the cherry blossoms
bud so too shall I.” Lord D said and smiled at D as he thought that his two
son's births would collide. D blushed and smiled at his father. “Actually Leon,”
Lord D said, “ I would like to have a word with you
and Ryo and Dee if it is at all possible?” Leon looked puzzled at Lord D
before he nodded and waited patiently for desert to be served, enjoyed and
cleared before he followed his father in law from the dining room.

“What's up Papa-D?” Leon asked as
soon as they were alone and D was seated comfortably.

“Well, it is just that,
with the coming fall, D will deliver, and it would heighten his chances of
survival to be on Arcadian soil.” Lord D explained, “it
is now safe for King Zarro to establish an opening to Arcadia from here and so if you are all
willing, there will be rooms at the consulate here for you to stay in, that is
if you would like to remain here that is.” Lord D waited to see the reaction
his statements had on the detectives.

“It should not be a
problem, but all of our mail and telephone calls need to be forwarded to here,
I mean the case, we have to fight to keep Bikky.” Ryo said worried that his two
main interests would conflict. Dee nodded his
agreement.

“Why are you asking me?” Leon said with
a rueful smile, “Was there ever a doubt to my answer? I would move to the moon
if I thought it would help him.” D smiled and placed a hand on his tummy which
quivered. Lord D smiled at his son and went to join JJ in their room. His
parents had not been seen for two days now and he was loath to disturb them.

Break

Ryo picked up the phone
bright and early the next morning and immediately frowned into the receiver. “How
dare you? Send that lawyer to us asking us questions you have some nerve. We'll
see you in court.” Ryo smiled and looked over at D who had awakened at the
sound of the high pitched screeching that could be heard through the telephone.

“I take it our lawyer got
to dear Aunt Cathy,” Dee mumbled and kissed
Ryo in a happy morning greeting. Ryo smiled and greeted the day on a high note.
Today they would meet their lawyer for the first time and he was looking
forward to congratulating her on upsetting Cathy, who had done such a stellar
job of upsetting their happy life.

The afternoon came around
and Ryo and Dee walked into the private office of High Prince Daphnus and
paused, sitting in the room where they had been told to meet their lawyer was
none other than Princess Chimera. She was not dressed in her customary casual
clothing, but a business suit that fitted her tiny frame to perfection.
“Gentleman, I am Charis Krystalis, it was necessary for me to meet you this
way, and I should also introduce you to my partner, Staci Rykowski,” Charis
said and Princess Tisiphone walked into the office smiling brightly. “The only
Royale you really need to worry about aiding you in the court room with our
titles is High Princess Andromache and the King himself,” Charis said.

Ryo stared at her and
wondered aloud “but you are Princess Chimera?”

Charis nodded and for the
record Andy is Tiffany Vasilisis, wife of Stock entrepreneur Nicklaus Vasilisis
and I am sure you know Kenneth Bradshaw, from one of the wealthiest families in
the world. You will be backed by the best, have no fear that this case is ours,
lets approach this as we would any war. No quarter, no prisoners, no mercy, I
will help you keep your child.” Ryo nodded and listened as Charis went over the
true names of each person in the Royale and he was awed by the amount of power
and money at his disposal.

Break

Leon found D sitting in the garden
holding a bunch of lovely flowers. Leon leaned down and kissed him. D
looked up and smiled, “Chris said that you sent me these.” D said and sniffed
the blooms. “May I question why?”

“Don't you know what today
is?” Leon
said with a grin. D smiled and looked away. “Owing to the fact that you are
eight months pregnant and will be nine months next week, I will not throw a
bowl of rice at you if you forgot...”

“Our anniversary,” D said
and handed Leon
a package that sat on the table beside him. Leon had been so intent on staring
at D, he had not noticed anything else. Leon grinned
and opened the gift. Inside a large box was a dagger. It had a dragon hilt with
diamond eyes glittering in the bright sunlight. “It is our family crest,” D
said smiling. Leon
pulled the bagger from it's sheath and stared at the
shiny blade.

“If it's your family
crest... Shouldn't you be the one to pass it on to our son?” Leon said.

D smiled serenely and Leon felt a
pain in his heart at what it implied. “You will,” D said softly.

Leon sighed and blinked away the sudden
tears in his eyes. “Baby, you will give this to him...” Leon felt D
drawing away form hope and sighed. He would not allow him to give up. “ Here,” Leon
sighed and pulled a small box from his pocket.

“You sparkle to me and so
I want to shower you with jewels, just so that I can be awed daily that you
shine brighter.” Leon
opened the case and showed D the tennis bracelet inside that sparkled with
diamonds, amethysts, topaz, sapphires and rubies.

“Oh, Leon it is beautiful,” D said and held out a
delicate arm for Leon
to place the bracelet on his wrist.

"So are you," Leon knelt by D
and kissed him softly. They spent the entire day in the garden appreciating the
scenery and each other.

Break

(Fall brings with it the first day of school for the
children and D's ninth month)

D sat on his bed unable to
do more than wrap his bed robe around himself as Chris paraded his new school
clothing in front of him. D had ordered them all from catalogs as he could not
trust Leon
to dress Chris properly. Chris kissed D's cheek and ran to the door where Bikky
was waiting for him. Carol had already been dropped off at the local high
school. - D, don't you have that baby until I get back, promise me okay.- Chris waved again and ran into the waiting car where
Ryo drove the boys to school.

D laughed and promised to
do his best. He lay his hand on his large tummy and
sighed leaning back against the bed. Leon looked at him and sighed. Lord
D had pronounced that any day now D could deliver. “How are you feeling?” Leon asked and
sat on the bed careful not to jostle D.

“I am practically the size
of this room, how would you feel?” D asked and leaned against the pillows that
had been stacked against the headboard. Leon opened the robe and kissed the
creamy skin of D's tummy. D sighed and Leon looked up to note that he had
fallen asleep. Leon
heard the bed room door open and looked up to see Lord and Sofu D entering the
room. They both had worried frowns on their faces.

“Detective, may we speak
to you?” Sofu said, Leon
noted that Lord D looked decidedly uncomfortable, but determined. Leon
nodded and lead them to the balcony of their room.
Sofu cleared his throat. “My son and I have discussed it heavily and come to a
decision. D has been pregnant long enough, he and the child can benefit no more
from their bond. It is time for him to deliver.”

“When the child is ready
to come out it will, that is what my mother always
said.” Leon
said with a frown.

“Such is not the case
here, Detective; the pregnancy is starting to drain his body. And since the
child has not demanded to be released from his squishy home, he will need some
stimulation to cause him to go into labor.” Lord D said and nodded. “He will
need your help.”

“My help, how can I help?”
Leon
asked worried that they wanted to do something weird to D. “Don't they have
some sort of labor inducing drug?”

“I am not happy to say
this, but giving him any sort of drugs would possibly hurt him and the child.
We can not even give him anything for pain when he delivers. My powers will be
the only thing available to alleviate his pain.” Leon glanced at D lying peacefully
on the bed asleep soundly. “He needs something to simulate contractions and
cause him to have true contractions. You have to help him.” Lord D said and
blushed looking away from Leon's
confused stare.

“I'm not following,” he
said and wondered what they could possibly want him to do.

Lord D looked away
blushing brightly. Sofu sighed heavily, “For the love of all that is good, decent,
and holy... You need to take my grandson to bed, the contractions of an orgasm
are similar to the contractions of labor, and one is enough to start the other,
do you follow now?”

Leon stared wide eyed at Sofu and shook
his head, “I don't want to hurt him.”

“If you are careful you
will not, will you help him start his labor?” Lord D said finally able to look
at Leon
with out his face coloring. Leon
nodded and stared as Lord and Sofu D left him in his room with D. First to wake
him and explain what he wanted to do without sounding like a horny bastard.

D awakened and leaned into
Leon's
kiss. “What are you doing?” D asked softly when Leon began to caress his rounded
body.

“Well your father seems to
think that... An orgasm will help you go into labor, they say you need to.” Leon explained
D stared at him wide eyed and hopeful. “If you do not want to I understand.”

“I am so ready to have
this child,” D said and pulled his bed robe off waiting for Leon to
continue.

“Tell me immediately if I
hurt you, you promise.” D nodded and reached for Leon.

Break

(Please understand why I did not go into details...)

“Well, did it work,” Leon asked and
shifted until he could pull the blanket from underneath them and cover D.

D sighed, “It was
wonderful, but... well... I don't feel any different. Well...” D blushed and
snuggled closer to Leon.
“I do feel remarkably relaxed,” D said and placed his hand on his tummy.
“Should we try again,” D asked. He sighed and yawned. “Well maybe not now, I am
tired.” D sighed and leaned down in the bed. “Maybe we should try again
tomorrow.” Leon nodded and
kissed D's forehead D sighed and Leon smiled, his love was asleep.

Break

Leon watched as D struggled to his feet
with the aide of Ryo. Bikky and Chris grinned their
good byes and headed off to school for the day. D sighed and placed his small
elegant hands on the small of his back. Leon grew worried at the frown on
D's face. It was the same frown that he had worn all through out breakfast. D
sighed and Leon
placed his hands on D's shoulder. D shrugged and winced not wanting to be
bothered. He breathed in deeply and pouted at Leon. “I am sorry, I just... Don't
want to be touched now.” D walked to the couch and sat heavily.

“Are you going to tell
him?” Sofu asked his son with a smirk. Lord D grinned and shook his head. “Oh
why not? Don't you think they have been through enough?” D shifted on the couch
and pouted before turning and trying to find another comfortable position.

“Father, there are some
lessons children need to learn on their own, your methods, not mine.” Lord D
said and sat beside JJ with a smirk on his face. JJ nuzzled Lord D's soft neck.

“Just you wait until it is
your turn,” Sofu huffed and went to find his wife. Lady Aurora grinned at her
husband.

“Should you leave their
side, they are both young and no where near wise enough to handle what is to
come.” She said and leaned her head against his shoulder. While thinking of her
son and grandson she sighed.

“You have no idea,” Sofu
said sadly.

“You know something don't
you?” Aurora asked, Sofu sighed again before he
kissed his wife and left the room to return to the lounge where D was breathing
deeply and holding his side and Leon
rubbed his lower back.

“Is he going to be okay?” Leon asked Lord
D who smiled.

“Alright, enough of this.
Tell them,” Sofu said to Lord D who sighed and placed his hand over his son's.

“Tell us what?” D asked
between gasps.

“Give him another ten
minutes father and they will figure it out on their own.” Lord D said softly. Leon frowned at
Lord D before his eyes widened and D let out a startled cry of pain.

“Child,” Sofu said softly
and pulled D to his feet. “It would be best if you returned to your room for
you see... You have been in labor all day.”

Chapter 11:

Speechless

Leon felt as if the world were tumbling
on a roller coaster and was not wearing a safety belt. D was pale and every
fifteen minutes he gasped in pain and cried out loud. Lord D had assisted him
from his clothing and wrapped him in a loose fitting bed robe. He had also
wrapped an odd cloth contraption around D’s waist containing his manhood and
exposed his newly developed birth canal. D panted and held Leon’s hand
when another contraction nearly doubled him over. When the contraction ended,
Lord D pulled D’s long hair into a pony tail and began to file his nails. “Papa
D, don’t you think you should be doing more than giving him a manicure?” Leon asked as D
paled and panted and his breathing quickened.

Lord D handed Leon a stop
watch, “keep track of his contractions and let me know when they get closer
together.” Lord D seemed calm on the outside as he moved on to another finger.
On the inside he felt as if his head would explode if he did not keep busy.
This was it, the moment hey had all waited so long
for. He had missed so much of his son’s life and now he could lose him. Lord D
blinked and refused to shed any tears before they were due. Sofu sat in a chair
beside the bed and watched his grandson in sympathy for he knew all too well
the pain he was experiencing. Tears began to fall down D’s pale cheeks and Leon worried
all the more.

“Oh Baby, what have I done
to you?” Leon
asked and clicked the stopwatch, “ten minutes and counting. “Leon said when
D relaxed his body.

“You have loved me,” D
said softly. He managed to smile at Leon, “More than I could have ever
thought possible. Just as I have loved you.”

“As you love me,” Leon said. “No
past tense, you are getting through this Baby.” Leon affirmed and kissed D’s dainty
hand.

“I will do my best Love,
but my father and grand father have both warned me that I am too young to do
this. My body may not be strong enough. “D’s sad smile wavered and his
breathing hitched. “I… Will do… My best.”

Lord D nodded and moved on
to D’s other hand. “Nine minutes,” Leon said and clicked the stop
watch to restart it to ticking out the minutes. D sobbed and breathed deeply
trying to maintain control and contain his cries. Chris should be coming in
from school soon and he did not want to frighten him.

“There is enough time to
think of the child,” Lord D said. “Now it will help you if you feel the need to
release some of the … er… pent up feelings.”

“What,” D managed to
question his father.

“Scream child, scream if
you have to,” Sofu said and examined D’s hands which had both been filed blunt.
Lord D moved between D’s legs and measured his opening. “Is he almost dilated?”
Sofu asked Lord D.

“Not quite,” Lord D said.
D began to cry again and his body was pulled in several different directions.
“Do not push, you will do nothing but exhaust yourself and the child, relax and
breathe your way through.” Lord D knew he should conserve his strength but he
could not let his son suffer, not when he had the power to help. Lord D could
feel himself getting tired as he used his powers to alleviate his son’s pain.
Lord D sighed and relaxed when D gasped and relaxed against the head board.
Lord D drank an entire cup of Maisia juice and insisted that D drink one as
well. D began to pant again and before Lord D could act Sofu placed a firm hand
on his shoulder and shook his head.

“Seven minutes and getting
faster. When can he push it out?” Leon asked he was becoming more
flustered as D cringed and did indeed cry out. D then began to pant as his
grandfather had taught him and worked his way through the contraction. D soon
fell back against the pillows and tears fell down his cheeks.

“This really, really,
really hurt,” D gasped out. Sofu stifled a laugh and patted his hand. Much was
necessary for a Kami to admit that something was bothering them, much indeed.

“Just try to relax in
between contractions and conserve your strength, things are just getting
started.” Sofu said and looked at the slowly widening birth canal, “just
getting started.”

(45 Minutes Later)

“Five minutes apart, now
Papa D,” Leon
said panicked as D cried out. Ryo tapped on the door to let them know that JJ
had gone to retrieve the children from school. D tried to control his cries but
could not and a scream worked its way through his throat. Lord D smiled as the
bed was drenched. D’s water had broken; it was only a matter of time now. Leon
was instantly grateful that Lord D had filed D’s nails as his hand was brutally
squeezed for he was sure that he would bleeding right now. Leon was not
sure that some of his fingers were not broken. D released Leon’s hand and
fell back against the pillows. Leon
worked each of his fingers separately and made sure that they still worked. All
of them. “Ow.”

(45 More Minutes
Have Passed)

“There is no point to the
stop watch now Papa D there is no time in between them.” Leon said and
tossed the stop watch over his shoulder. Sofu caught it and sat it on the
nightstand. Lord D was sweating from his efforts to control the pain. Even with
his considerable talents, D was still in pain.

“Okay child, when you feel
the next one I want you to inhale and push.” Lord D said and moved into
position at the end of the bed. D inhaled and Leon winced as fingers were once
again crushed.

Sofu sat beside D and held
his other hand. Leon
was amazed that the grip did not seem to be hurting the older Kami. Sofu
snapped his fingers and gained D’s attention, “Look at me and keep focused. I
know it hurts, I know…” Sofu paused as D sobbed and panted. “I know…”

“It hurts grandfather…”

“I know, breathe with me,”
Sofu instructed and breathed. D soon followed his example. “That’s right, hold
on to your love, look at me, keep focused and on three. One… Two… Three… And
push.” D strained and Leon
ignored his own pain and stared at D praying that he would be alright.

Break

Chris bounced around in
the car and JJ was glad that he could not speak or he would surely be shouting
the hood of the car down. JJ tried to silence the excited young boy as he drove
them home form school. Ever since he had said that D was having his baby Chris
had been unable to contain his excitement. Bikky had grinned at him and Carol
congratulated him on his upcoming Uncle-hood. JJ pulled up to the house and
breathed a sigh of relief that the children actually waited for the car to come
to a complete stop before running into the consulate. T-Chan and the other
animals were waiting anxiously in the hallway pacing back and forth. “Where is
he? Where is he?” Bikky asked for Chris could do no more than bounce up and
down.

“Still in the room having
the little tyke,” Lady Aurora said and sighed. She was too afraid to go into
the room herself. Her grand baby was in there having a baby. Lady Aurora downed
a full chalice of blood and licked her lips clean. Nana stared at her in awe
before she went and tapped at the door. Sofu opened it and shook his head at
her inquiring look. Nana sighed and went to sit beside her Grandson.

Break

D lay with his eyes closed
and dealt with the pain, he was now pushing with every other contraction for he
had lost the strength to push with every one. The bed sheets and D’s bed robe
had been changed twice for they had been drenched with sweat. “Oh Leon,” D said
softly and blinked to focus his eyes he was so exhausted. Leon grew
worried and looked over at D, “I am so tired.”

“You can do this Baby, I
know you can.” Leon
coached and offered his hand for D’s squeezing needs. D blinked and tears fell
down his face. Leon
had stared down the barrel of many a gun, but never had e felt fear as he felt
at this moment.

D inhaled and sat up and
began to push again with all his might. Lord D waited expectantly. He placed a
finger inside of his son and sighed, he could not even feel the child’s head. D
strained and felt every ounce of energy leave his body. He had nothing left to
give, but for Leon
he would try.

Break

(Four Hours Later)

D was done, he could do no
more. He dropped back like a dead weight against the pillows and his breathing
was shallow. “My dear Detective, Leon, “D said Leon opened his bleary eyes and
looked at D. “ My father and grandfather will teach our son all he needs to
know about being a Kami, but you will have to teach him all he needs to know
about being a human.” Leon’s
smile was sad, then grimly determined. He shook his head denying D’s last word.
“I’m so sorry Leon, father if you can,” D looked at his father who blinked
still refusing to shed tears. “Save the child,” D closed his eyes and fainted.
Lord D finally gave in and fell to his knees in tears. Leon began to
so before he stood and towered over Lord D.

“No, Baby, no, do not do
this do not leave me. Come back,” Leon begged and shook D getting no
response he backed panicked. Leon
saw Lord D wipe his face and approach his son with a scalpel. “Do not touch
him,” Leon
shouted and ran from the room. “ANDY!” he shouted. Andy ran to him excited
hoping to hear news of his son. She grew worried at the harried look on his
face. “We need your help, D is going to die,” Leon announced. “Please don’t start
that we do not have time,” Leon
said when Andy began to cry.

Andy wiped at her
overflowing eyes and stared wide eyed at Leon, “How can I help?” She asked
between sobs. She wasted no time heading for D and Leon’s
room and listened to Leon’s
idea. It could work, she could pray and it could work. Leon opened the
door of his room and saw Lord D kneeling by the bed sobbing.

“Oh God, you haven’t
touched him have you?” He demanded of Lord D. Lord D was too distraught to
answer and so Sofu shook his head.

“The longer we sit here,”
Lord D said tearfully. “The more we endanger the child,” Lord D sniffled. “He
can do no more; he is in pain we have to… Let… Let him go.”

“No!” Leon yelled. “I
will not, I love him too damn much.” Leon stood by the bed and stared
down at D’s prostrate form. “The only problem is that he lacks the necessary
strength and energy to do this right?” Leon asked Lord D who nodded
worried that his son in law has finally lost his mind. “Then Andy, give him
everything I have.”

“What are you talking
about?” Sofu asked for Lord D was staring at him as if he were totally insane.

“When D was beaten, I took
his wounds; Andy did it some how she called it transference. He can have my
strength, my energy,” Leon
explained. Lord D blushed to have been so reminded of one of his less than
stellar moments. Sofu’s eyes rounded as Leon’s theory began to make sense.
“Take it all and give it to him,” Leon climbed into the bed and
pulled D limply into his arms and joined their hands. Andy held onto their
clasped hands and started to work. Andy closed her eyes just as D opened his
and was amazed at his renewed vigor. He was still in pain, but he just might be
able to deliver his child.

“Child?” Lord D asked
before D gasped in pain from a contraction. Lord D was brought back to the task
at hand. “All right, when you feel the pressure build I want you to push with
all your might. We have to deliver this child soon, for both of your sakes.”

(Two Hours Later)

Leon was so tired he could barely keep
his arms around D but he was determined not to let him go. They had been
pushing and straining and still nothing. Lord D wiped his brow, he had
instilled all of his powers into D and now all he could do was watch his son
suffer through a natural childbirth. Lord D tried, but he literally had nothing
left to give. Sofu noted that his son was exhausted and sigh, Andy too was
getting tired, they may have no choice but to sacrifice D and save the child. D
could feel his grandfather’s distress and became determined to see his child
and help raise it. He sat and pushed, Leon was startled by D’s strangled
cry. Leon
sat up worried. “I can see his head,” Lord D announced the words they had all waited
to hear.

Sofu looked over his son’s
shoulder and grinned at the tiny crown trying so hard to make its way through
to the world. D gasped and fell back against Leon panting never in all his life
had he felt such excruciating pain. “Come on Child, I know it hurts, but one
more push and he can take the shoulders and pull him to safety.” Sofu coached
his grandson.

Andy squeezed their hands
taking a little more of Leon’s
strength, “come on baby, let’s do this,” D sat up and nodded at his grandfather
before he closed his eyes and pushed. Never in all D’s long life had he
imagined the kind of pain that was now ripping him in two. He began to cry out
and tears coursed down his face. Leon had never thought to hear D
scream, but scream he did. Lord D gasped and took the tiny shoulder and gently
exerted pressure. He pulled the child free of its cocoon and sat staring down
at it. Sofu grew worried as his son did nothing but stare at the silent child
in his hands.

Sofu looked to see what
the problem was and gasped as well before he took the child and glanced at Leon. Leon was in no
condition to do more than hold D so Sofu did the honors and snipped the cord.
Sofu then cleaned the tiny mouth and nostrils. The child filled its lungs and
let out a wail. At sound D smiled and leaned his damp head against Leon. Lord D
snapped back into focus and told his son to push one more time. D pushed and
Lord D pressed against his stomach expelling the after birth. As Lord D applied
stitches, careful to leave no scars on his son’s creamy skin he looked over to
see his father working on his grandchild.

“Father, is something
wrong with my son,” D asked worried as his father still said nothing to him
about the child.

Lord D smiled tiredly at
his son, and accepted the child from his father wrapped in a yellow velvet
blanket. “Child,” Lord D said to his son, “you do not have a son.”

D began to sob but Lord D
laughed and handed the bundle to D. His next words stunned Leon, D and Andy.
“You have given birth to a daughter.”

Chapter 12:

Heaven

Leon blinked and stared down at the
yellow bundle in awe, “but you said that your family only ever had boys.” D
sighed tiredly and stared at the child that stared back at him with crystalline
blue eyes. D screwed up his face and blew a kiss at her. Leon frowned as
he watched D repeat the action several times. Leon was soon amazed as the child
screwed up her little face and mimicked the action. “She's a genius!”

“Here, son a fifty/fifty
split, human formula and Mirandia milk.” Sofu D said and handed his grandson a
perfectly warmed bottle. D accepted the bottle and began to feed the tiny gift.
Lord D backed away from the bed with a pleased sigh before he fell over
unconscious. Sofu picked up his son and cradled him gently in his arms.

“I'll put him to bed, you
two get some rest,” Sofu said he grinned at Leon and D before peeking at the
girl. “Think of a name, D does not seem to suit a girl.” D stared wide eyed as
his grandfather carried his father from the room.

Leon watched in awe as D held the child
up and extracted a small burp. “I never thought of a name, this is something
that has never happened before.” Before D could finish his sentence he released
a wide yawn. D settled the child between them before he scooted down in the bed
and leaned against Leon.
Leon
cradled his love and his treasure in his arms and slept peaceful and was
careful not to roll over.

Break

Andy hovered around Sofu
as he carried his son to his bedroom. JJ stood immediately and rushed forward
prepared to take his dear love and put him to bed. “Please excuse the whimsies
of an old man who is extremely proud of his son.” Sofu said and did not release
his hold on Lord D. JJ dipped into a bow and stepped aside while pulling the
sheets back. Andy was silent as she wiped a tear from her eye while watching
Sofu tuck Lord D into bed.

Break

Sofu stood and braced his
back to the wall as Lady Aurora marched towards him pointing a maligning finger
at him. “You said you could only deliver a boy, you gave me a boy, you said
there was no choice.”

“Silent my little harridan
or you will wake your little boy.” Sofu said with a smile and took Lady
Aurora's arm and led her from the room. Once the door was closed Andy backed
away from the angry vampire as she rounded on her husband. “Before you take my
head off, literally,” Sofu rounded his eyes and took a deep breath. “It is true
that when a D Kami bears a child, they pass their genes on directly. When our
son passed his genes to the human woman it was a complete transfusion. Her
human genes were no where near enough to overpower his and D a result of that
is in that he is a near exact replica of his father.”

“That is not explaining
the little darling girl sleeping now does it and you said...” Lady Aurora
practically hissed at her husband. “You said you could only carry a boy. D is a
male Kami and he bore a girl.”

“Yes, that would be the
fault of our son, you see a while ago Leon was shot and our son gave him some
of D's blood to help him survive, in that odd occurrence, Leon's blood must
have entered D's body, and the male of the human species is the one that carry
the x and y chromosomes and he must have been carrying a girl.” Sofu said he
waited a beat to see if his wife was listening to him before he continued. “I
have a son because he carries only my genes, the same is for D but when there
is a mix... Miracles can happen. You now have a grand daughter; sorry I was
unable to give you a daughter you will forgive me won't you?”

“Perhaps, all this talk of
passing on genes and well, are you too tired to take me to bed?” Lady Aurora
asked with a coy smile.

Sofu grinned at his wife,
“Never my love, never.”

Break

It was a soft sound that
awakened Leon.
He blinked and opened his eyes looking for the distressed critter. He blinked
again and focused on the little bundle wrapped in bright yellow velvet. Leon
looked down and watched the little face screw up and emit another little cry.
“Oh sweetie, are you hungry?” Leon
said and sat up cradling his daughter. As soon as she was in Leon's arms she
was silent and stared up at her father. “You are so beautiful.”

“She is,” Leon looked up
to find Sofu standing by his side. “I will dry her while you make her bottle.” Leon smiled and
carefully handed his little treasure to Sofu. On his way from the bed he
checked D's pulse for he seemed comatose in his sprawl on the bed. Satisfied
that his love yet lived Leon
headed to the small fridge and microwave. “He just needs sleep. The poor child
is beyond exhausted.”

“How is Papa D doing?” Leon asked when
he went back to the bed and and reached for the
little baby.

“The same, sleeping, you
have all been out for a full day. I came in here expecting you to still be
sleeping.” Sofu said not showing his disappointment at being denied alone time
with his first ever great grand daughter.

“Nah, I'm made of sterner
stuff than that.” Leon
said and carefully cradled the little head and fed his daughter. “We never even
thought of a name for a girl. I figured it would be a boy and we would call him
D or something.”

“Hmm, yes, well,” Sofu
said and looked over Leon's
shoulder. “She'll have your eyes, deep, bright blue.”

“All babies have blue
eyes,” Leon
said, he looked over his shoulder and sighed, Sofu was gone.

Break

Lord D sat in the lush
garden and was confused. What, he wondered, was going on? He looked around at
the plants that had gone extinct centuries ago and wondered if he had stumbled
upon his father's garden. “Father, I'm here,” Lord D turned at the sound of the
familiar voice. “I was being held the whole time and put through a trial and
given another...”

“D-San,” Lord D said
halting the flow of excited chatter from the mouth of the son he had not seen
alive in centuries. “How?”

“You were hit with the
Arcadian Lights, it is not me as you know me, and I have some of Detective
Jamison's genes, but...”

Lord D sat up gasping in
bed clutching his stomach. “Darling...” JJ said and stared worried at Lord D.
He had begun to frown in his sleep and now he sat gasping and crying. Lord D
could not say a word; he simply held on to JJ and sobbed.

Break

“Daphnus,” High Prince
Daphnus looked up and saw Lady Clarisande approaching him with a book. “The D's
have been written about before... well, look at this.” Lady Clarisande held the
book out for Daphnus to have a look.

Daphnus looked over at the
lovely ancient Arcadian script Daphnus sighed and read aloud. “D of male born woman in the house of
royalty... Hmm,” Daphnus pulled a honey stick from his golden case and
placed it into his mouth as one would a cigarette. “Look here,” Daphnus pointed
to a passage in the tome. “Plans can be
made to go awry, however, with time to course that was set shall be
reestablished and the older shall be the younger.”

“I have no idea what that
means,” Clarisande said and stared at the pages. Daphnus shrugged and tried not
to remember the dear Prince who spent hours in the library with Clarisande. He
simply smiled.

“Don't worry pretty Witch,
you'll figure it out, or better yet, why not ask the patriarch of the family? ”Daphnus suggested and smiled at Clarisande, she nodded
and headed off back to her library in hopes to find more about the D family.

Break

Chris could not believe
what Sofu had said, he had a niece. He had been staying in the part of the
consulate that housed Ryo and Dee. “I'll bet she's gorgeous,” Carol gushed
before he ran off to do her homework. Chris bounced around grinning until Ryo
handed him his backpack and insisted he study.

Break

D rolled over and opened
his eyes; he came face to face with Leon who smiled at him. “Welcome to the
land of the awake.” D blinked and tried to sit up but his arms would not
support his weight. Leon
was quick to move and help him. “Are you alright, I mean, does it hurt to sit
up?” D blushed and shook his head. “You want to see her?” D nodded his blush
fading into his normal pale complexion. Leon was extremely gentle in
bringing the little bassinet over to the bed and handing their daughter to D.

“What should we call her?”
D asked and stared down at the child with tufts of soft black hair and bright
blue eyes.

“Your grand pa thinks she
will have blue eyes, but I can see she has your face and skin tone.” Leon said and
kissed D's brow. “She is such a jewel.”

“Yes, Aoi Hitomi Shiro
Shikon.” D said with a smile before he leaned against Leon holding
their daughter and went back to sleep. As Leon sat up holding his love and
his child, he realized that his life could not get any better. He looked at D
sleeping and his new Daughter and felt as if he had stumbled into paradise.

Chapter 13:

Welcome Home Little Jewel

Leon entered the room and thought the world
had ceased to move. “What in the hell are you doing out of bed? You just had a
baby,” Leon
rushed forward and gently picked D into his arms and deposited him on the bed.
“Was I too rough, does it hurt?” Leon asked when D simply stared at
him.

“I'm fine detective,” D
said trying not to laugh. “I only stood because I could not reach Aoi's
diapers.”

“I am going to give you a
pager so that whenever you need something you can just call me and I will come
running. Don't get up.” Leon
said and handed D the desired piece of cloth. “Are you going to tell me what
her name means?”

“In two days, when she is
five days old,” D said and undid the pins of the old diaper and started to re
clothe her little bottom. “I know it may seem hard to understand, but we are
both of us her parents and I want her to appreciate both of her cultures, so I
will only speak to her in Mandarin and you will only speak to her in English.
In that way she will develop the proper phonetic abilities to be fluent in both
languages.” D smiled at Leon
and handed him the soiled diaper.

Leon took the diaper and put it in the
little receptacle that he would later take out. “Is it really necessary right
now I mean its not like she will remember anything?” Leon said
watching as D carefully lifted their daughter to his face and blew a kiss at
her. D laughed as she returned the gesture. “Ok baby, how did you teach her
that, she was what ten minutes old?”

“It is an automatic response;
her vision is only so good that she can see my face when I am feeding her,
which is as far as her world extends right now.” D explained and handed their
daughter to Leon.
“We are her world; she depends on us to supply everything she needs.”

“That does not explain the
kisses,” Leon
said and looked into her deep blue eyes.

D laughed, “I told my
grandfather that it would be alright for Chris to come inside today after
school to meet her.”

“Any word on your father?”
Leon
asked, the last he had heard of the Kami, he had been carried from the room
unconscious, and JJ has been going insane with worry, “your father has not
spoken a word.” Leon
sat on the bed careful not to jostle D.

D looked up and noted the
gesture and hid a smile behind his hand. “Leon, I am fine I promise.”

“How can you say that? You
just pushed out 5 and a half pounds of baby,” Leon exclaimed.

“Yes, and I must say that
it was indeed painful and I do still feel some repercussions, but a swaying bed
is not going to kill me,” D said and looked up when the door opened and Sofu
had to grab Chris's arm to keep him from running headlong into the room. Chris
stared up at Sofu before he tiptoed over to the bed. Sofu shut the door and
approached the bed behind Chris.

-Its a girl,- Chris said and climbed onto the bed to sit beside D who
held the baby over for him to see her.

“Yes, she is,” D said, “I
will tell you her name in two days.” D promised and smiled at Chris. Chris
stared at the little baby in awe. “Why don't you blow her a little kiss,” D
said. Chris frowned at D but followed his advice; he was amazed when she
returned the gesture. -Can I sleep here tonight?” Chris asked. -Its Friday, so
I don't have school tomorrow and all my homework is done. Since you have been
in here, Ryo has been helping me with my math.- Leon
looked at D before he nodded and smiled. Chris smiled brightly and watched as Leon left the
room to arrange to have a small bed brought to their bedroom.

Break

Lord D looked up tearfully
at JJ, he had not said a word to JJ in three days.
“Its... we... our love... You have returned to me...” JJ was terrified and he
tried to make sense of Lord D's babbling.

“He is in a mild state of
shock,” Sofu said when he entered the room. “But it has gone on long enough, it is not healthy for you, him, or the child he
carries.” Sofu walked to his son and took a cup of white plum juice boiled with
honey and chilled. “When was the last time he ate?” Sofu asked JJ.

“I fed him about an hour
ago, he does not move much on his own,” JJ said and sat on the bed and stared
at Lord D. Sofu dipped his fingers into the juice and traced them across Lord
D's lips.

“I know it is hard to
understand, but when God gives you a blessing, you do not sit in shock, you
nurture it and help it to grow strong. Your love gave it a chance to grow can
you hear me?” Sofu said and looked deep into Lord D's eyes. Lord D inhaled and
licked the sweet mixture from his lips. “D-san,” Sofu said hoping to force Lord
D to speak in a coherent sentence.

“I am carrying D-san,”
Lord D said and a fresh wave of tears washed over his cheeks. JJ sighed in
relief and blinked away tears of his own. “Father, I need to be alone with JJ
please.” Sofu stared hard at his son before he nodded his head and smiled at JJ
before he left the room shutting the door softly behind him. “Jemi-Chan, please
I need you to do something for me.”

“Anything darling,” JJ
said and walked over to Lord D and took his cold hand.

“Make love to me,” Lord D
said.

“Are you sure?” JJ asked
and pulled Lord D to his feet.

“Yes, but, could you, I
mean... You have never taken me on my knees, I am asking you to.” Lord D said
and shed his clothes and climbed onto the bed. JJ stood and followed suit.

“Are you sure?” JJ asked
again, ready to do anything to assure Lord D's happiness. Lord D nodded and
looked over his shoulder at JJ. JJ smiled, he could refuse his love nothing.
Lord D braced himself for entry, but was surprised to feel gentle hands caress
him. Lord D sighed when JJ stood and stared at the round globe inviting him
inside the warmth. JJ could not help licking his lips before he dived in. Lord
D gasped never having imagined that JJ could go so far inside with a tongue.
JJ's fingers followed and Lord D began to pant on the bed and clenched his
fingers around the pillows.

JJ lubed Lord D and slid
inside grasping Lord D's hips gently. Lord D gasped and breathed his way
through a slight discomfort that soon melted away leaving only the familiar
feeling of being full of JJ. JJ pushed all the way and pulled nearly out before
he pushed in again. Lord D panted and tears escaped from his eyes. His memories
were fading and the pleasure was blinding. JJ was confused, but he was also
lost on a sea of turbulent emotions caused by the sound of Lord D as he cried
out in joy and ecstasy.

Break

Sofu smiled and leaned
back in the Queen's garden and held his wife close to him. “I had vowed to let
them be, but I can not.”

“You love them silly, what
is so confusing about that?” Lady Aurora said and smiled up at Sofu. “When Leon
was shot, he was supposed to die was he not, and just
as he was giving birth, D himself was supposed to die, but neither did, our son
understands more than you do. You have the gift of foresight, and you think
that just because you see it has to happen in that way. Perhaps your gift
should be used to see things, but to give you a chance to control your own destiny.
Life should be lived love, lived. Not hidden from in fear of dreams and
visions.”

“Where would I be without
you?” Sofu asked his wife.

“In mourning,” Aurora said and kissed
his cheek. “Be happy to be celebrating the life of your first great grand daughter
and not mourning the loss of our grandson. If our child had not saved Leon, Leon would not be here to save D,
it is a circle and it goes on.”

“I love you,” Sofu said
simply and held her close.

Break

Chimera smiled as she
looked over at Ryo and had him reading documents that proved that Cathy was
indeed Bikky's aunt. His father's sister who had decided that since her brother
was deceased; she would raise the child he had left behind. “This gives her a
stronger case, why are you smiling.”

“Like any good warrior, I
relish a good fight.” Chimera grinned, “But anyone who joins a fight for all
the wrong reasons are bound to fail and do so miserably.”

Ryo wanted to believe, he
wanted to fell the confidence she exuded, but somewhere was fear that he would
lose his son. Dee patted his shoulder and
smiled. “We will beat this, have no fear.”

“There is another option
that you could think about,” Tisiphone said and sat down. Chimera frowned. It
was her friend's job to be the vengeance angel and find any means necessary to
win the battle, but this way denied Chimera the fight she was so looking
forward to.

“Another way,” Ryo wanted
to know if they could secure Bikky's home without the vicious court battle that
loomed ahead of them.

“Yes,” Tisiphone said and
began to explain. “Right now you have full incontestable custody of Bikky, his
name is in fact Bikky MacLean, not Goldman as it was
before you adopted him. Right now you could give up your US citizenship and become an Arcadian subject,
with the protection of our Kingdom, Bikky would be safe, but you could never
return to America
citizenship for then the ploy would have been for naught and you would lose
him.”

“I am American, I can not
give up my citizenship, and we will
fight.” Ryo said and Dee grinned glad that Ryo
was showing the quiet strength he had always admired and had in fact fallen in
love with.

“With that attitude, we
can do it,” Chimera said and packed up her briefcase ready to head out. “You
all will be returning to your own home tomorrow and you will meet the new D
child tomorrow at the pet shop when she is returned to her home. She will be
five days old and then her name in English will be given to her.” Chimera
grinned and winked before she left the room Ryo stood and kissed Dee feeling confident.

Break

Leon hovered around D as he stood and
dressed himself for the trip back to the pet shop. Their daughter sat bundled
in her light green blankets and stared up. “Will you tell me her name?” Leon asked when
D bent to pick her up.

“Aoi means blue, Hitomi
means eyes Shiro means white and Shikon is Jewel,” D said with a smile. Leon looked at
his daughter and grinned.

“That is really pretty,”
He said and kissed D's cheek. D blushed and looked away, “Her name sounds like
a poem.” D laughed and gathered his daughter close to him before he walked to
the door and prepared to head home.

“In truth, her name for
the American documents will be Jewel Llynnya Orcot.” D said and opened the
door. Chris stood at his side holding a bag with her bottles and diapers. Leon took his hand
and walked through the opening into the pet shop glad to be home.

Chapter 14:

Happiness is...

Randolph walked down the crowded street in China
town and looked around. The Pet Shop of Count D had been closed for over two
weeks now. He knew that something was up with the special Royals that they were
all protecting for Detectives Laytner and MacLean were working from the
consulate and Orcot had been reassigned until further notice. Randolph paused and stared in horror at the
closed on the door as a slim hand with frighteningly perfect nails removed it.
He glowered and stomped to the door and wrenched it open as soon as the lock
was thrown.

“Hello detective how may I
help you?” Sofu said pleasantly, he waited for the detectives eyes to focus in
the dim lighting and notice Q-Chan sitting on his shoulder. Randolph’s eyes widened as he looked at the
creature. He gulped and backed away from the shop leaving as hastily as was
humanly possible.

“Mother, what on Earth did
you do to that man?” Lord D asked, he had been sitting
on the couch unobserved by the angry detective.

“Business as usual, when
will all of the guest arrive?” Sofu asked and looked at the clock. He smiled it
was nearing noon, time for tea. Before Lord D could answer his father the bell
above the shop door chimed and Jill and Diana rushed in with Ryo and Dee. They
all carried many gifts and laughed and chattered.

“Where is the little
darling?” Jill Gushed carrying a bag of what looked like a mountain of pink
cloth.

“They shall be here
shortly. Leon
is helping D to dress as we speak,” Lord D said. He looked over at JJ who held
his Nana’s arm and walked with her down the hallway and assisted her to sit.
Lord D smiled as he stared. JJ looked up and Lord D felt his heart skip a beat.
JJ grinned and winked before he handed his Nana her little dog and his brush.

Break

(Rewind: Insert Flashback)

JJ lay in bed holding Lord
D close and waited. His chest and sheet beneath him were drenched from the
tears that his love had shed. “Darling, I know a lot is going on, but do you
think you can talk to me, I am afraid for you?”

“When I lived with
Hamanosuke, he would typically have me on my knees. But you had never done so.
He always hurt me, you never did. Every bad memory that I have of being loved
by him; you have replaced. I wanted that one replaced as well. He took my son
from me and you have returned him.”

“Glad I could be of help,”
JJ said and kissed the top of Lord D’s head. “So the child, it is your son, not
mine?”

“Yes, I mean no, he will
have some of your traits; he will not be only my son, but yours as well.” Lord
D paused realizing that it would be hard for JJ to understand. JJ simply
sighed.

“I’ll love him
regardless.” He promised, “Just as I love you.” JJ leaned back against the bed
and cradled Lord D in his arms. "You know," He said, "This is
the first time that I have ever topped in a relationship."

"Topped?" Lord D
looked up at JJ with a confused frown on his face.

"Yeah, topped. You
know..." JJ blushed and looked away from Lord D's gaze. "Like in
bed." Lord D still looked confused and JJ simply blushed faked a yawn and
snuggled close to Lord D preparing to go to sleep.

"I would like to know
what you are talking about, won't you please tell me?" Lord D sat up and
stared at JJ. JJ sighed before he pressed Lord D to the bed and climbed on top
of him. Lord D sighed into the kiss that took his breathe away. He was smiling
though the pain of JJ changing the subject. Lord D closed his eyes and enjoyed
the feeling of JJ as he slid deep inside.

Break

“You are walking better,” Leon observed
as D made his way from the room carrying Jewel.

“Yes, with time all wounds
heal,” D said. Chris looked up and nodded he waved at T-Chan who was meeting
the child for the first time along with all the other animals in the shop.

T-Chan glowered at Leon and
grumbled, “Humans are so easy to read. It takes six weeks after birth before
the baby’s mom is capable of... well…” T-Chan blushed and looked away.

“I was more worried about
him walking you little obnoxious, nosy, pervert," Leon practically
growled.

“Leon I will not have our daughter’s
ears sullied by your foul mouth,” D said and smiled brightly at the crowd
sitting in the parlor that stood as soon as he was visible. The Royals had
arrived and were all bearing gifts of varying shades of pink and purple. Andy
had bags and bags of purple items. D smiled, he would expect no less of her,
purple was her court color. “Oh my,” D said and sat gratefully in the plush
chair that Leon
held out for him. The crowd shushed as D pulled the light green blanket aside
and showed the small face within. “I would like to introduce you all to Jewel
Llynnya Orcot.” King Zarro stepped forward ahead of the crowd and peered at the
small child. He reached for her and D took a deep breath before he relinquished
his daughter.

“Why D, she is beautiful
and look at those eyes,” Zarro smiled and looked over at Leon. “She will do well by both of
her parents, but then again the D’s have never lacked beauty. You’ll have your
hands full when Puberty hits believe me I know. I have fourteen daughters,”
Zarro announced.

“How about we let them
worry about puberty after she makes it past the terrible twos,” Nana joked with
the king.

“Our children are always
well behaved, why when my son and grandson were two they were perfect little
angels.” Sofu said. D blushed and smiled at his father who looked sad to have
missed such an important time in his son’s development.

“Yes I am sure they were
perfect, but she bears Orcot’s blood as well, she’ll more than likely be a little hellion,” Dee
smirked and winked at Count D. “But Leon was a hellion until the Count reined
him in I doubt he will allow his child to run amok.”

“She is beautiful, that is
my official word as the King of Arcadia,” Zarro said with a grin. He had told
Andy the same thing about little Nicklaus with a sly grin at Clarisande. She
had figured out the ancient Arcadian script and had informed the king of her
findings. King Zarro had laughed and sworn her to secrecy.

"I was unaware that
she needed your approval but I am glad to have it," D said and took his
daughter back from the king and rocked her gently back and forth. She opened
her eyes and stared at D as if contemplating what she wished to do now. Her decision
made she opened her mouth and emitted a wail. "I think she's hungry,"
D announced to the crowd that silenced and gathered around. Leon fetched
her bottle from Chris little bag and handed it to D.

"Ok everyone, I think
it is time now," Leon
said and winked at the gathering of friends. Bikky cheered and clapped Chris on
the back. Andy was the first to pull her wads of Purple baby clothes out of her
bag and set it aside. She reached further into the bag, further than should
have been possible and pulled out a large blue and gold wrapped present with a
big bow.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY
CHRIS!" They all shouted and reached into the bags of baby clothes
that had hidden piles of gifts.

"Did you think we had
forgotten?" Leon
asked his brother who was too shocked to do more than stare around himself in
awe. Lady Clarisande waved her hand and the front of the shop was instantly
decorated for his ninth birthday party. Chris knew that he had never had a
happier birthday.

Break

Count D was sitting in the
garden rocking Jewel when he saw his father walking one of the many paths
looking lost in thought. "Father" D called when it looked as if his
father would walk right by without noticing him. "Is everything all
right?"

"Oh, child yes, do
not concern yourself," Lord D said and made as if to walk by. Count D
touched the sleeve of his father robe and felt him trembling.

"I am not a child,
please, sit and talk to me." Count D said, he was
worried when his father sat and avoided his gaze.

"Do you ever fear
that you do not truly know Leon?"
Lord D asked when he had poured himself a cup of tea. "Like he is keeping
secrets?"

"Ha, Leon
has never kept a secret from me, I think it is quit
beyond him. Even before we were lovers his emotions were always loud and clear,
we both just decided to avoid them." D smiled, hoping that his father
would open up to him.

"I found this,"
Lord D said and handed a handkerchief to D. D opened the handkerchief and saw
that inside it was a badge.

"New York City, 27th precinct, Detective
Adams," D read aloud and looked at his father in confusion. "A lover
perhaps, killed in duty?"

"I wouldn't know, he
hasn't spoken to me about it and well, I don't think that is what it is."
Lord D said with a sigh. His intuition had always been exemplary, except when
it came to matters of the heart.

"I am sure it is
nothing to be overly concerned about father, why don't you ask him. There is a
perfectly reasonable explanation. Then you can spend valuable time
together." D smiled and blushed slightly before he attended to wiping
excess milk from Jewel's mouth. "She behaves just like Leon, feed her
and she is happy."

"That is how most
babies behave," Lord D said and sat up to appreciate his grand daughter.
His clothing shifted to show that he was beginning to develop a dent in his
clothing. D smiled at his father. "Child," Lord D said and Count D
decided that it was not worth the effort to correct him. "Do you know..." Lord D paused and turned bright red before bravely
going on. "Do you know what the word... Topped
means?"

"Topped, as
in..." Count D paused, "No father I am afraid I do not know what that
means." Count D grinned, "but I know someone
who does."

"Do you think JJ is
dissatisfied with me?" Lord D asked worried when D sat Jewel in her
bassinet and picked up the phone.

"He is crazy about
you father. Thoroughly besotted," D assured his father and dialed.
"Yes, Detective Laytner, hello. I am fine. No I am not calling for Leon; I was
hoping to speak to you... I have a few questions and I hope you can answer...
Oh no! ..." D laughed. "Nothing like that... I think," D frowned
and looked at his father. "Yes, I will have tea prepared and food. No you
do not need to stop and pick up any popsicles, honestly..." D laughed and
hung up the phone. "We are in luck father, Ryo is at the children's school
signing Bikky out for tomorrow, and they have their court appearance. I do wish
them luck. I wish I could be there to support them."

"You should be able
to. You and Jewel are both in perfect health. If walking does not upset you I
say go and support your friends. I wish to go as well." Lord D said with a
grin. "Unlike you, I am old enough to control my appearance to strangers.
Though I may get as large as you did I will look no different than I do now."

"Unfair, I was stuck
hiding and you can..." Count D pouted at his father before he smiled when
he heard the chime on the door. Within moments Dee
walked into the garden with a curious smile on his face. "Detective...
That was rather quick."

"You did offer him
food," Lord D said and indicated that Dee
should sit and partake of their lunch.

"Hello Papa D, what's
up Little D, what did you want to ask me?" Dee
looked around. "Be quick before Ryo finds out I am here without him,"
Dee peeked over at Jewel sleeping peacefully.
"Aw man D, she's beautiful."

"Thank you
detective," D said and blushed. "Do you know what it means to have
topped someone?"

Dee choked on his tea and blinked
tears from his eyes after an extended fit of coughing. "Did you ask Leon?" Dee asked afraid to get involved in other people's
relationship. Every time he did Ryo got mad at him.

"Oh no... I mean,
well..." Count D sighed and looked at his father.

"JJ told me that our
relationship is the first time he has ever topped anyone and I do not know what
he means." Lord D said when his son seemed at a loss for words.

"Oh... wow... I mean
it figures that he would be top... but I can also see how this is a first time,
I mean..." Dee rambled he realized that D
and Lord D looked even more confused. "It means, well it has to do with
... well in bed, he tops you." Dee said
to Lord D who stared at him blankly. "Talk about a culture shock... when
languages collide." Dee mumbled and looked at Count D. "In bed, Leon tops you
right?"

"He is not always on
top of me," Count D blushed and looked away from D. He pulled a fan from
his sleeve and sipped his tea which seemed too warm in balmy garden with his
heightened temperature.

"Yes, but he tops
you..." Dee said with a meaningful nod at
Count D who frowned. "I top Ryo..." Dee
said at a loss to how he could say it gently without embarrassing them more.
Lord D was already so red that Dee feared he
would pass out.

"Oh... ChiChiUe... Anata
wo shite no JJ," Count D said triumphantly in understanding. Lord D's eyes
widened before he closed them and hid his face. "I think he understands
now.”D said fanning away his own heated embarrassment. Dee
laughed before he leaned over the bassinet and blew a kiss over at Jewel and
took his leave of the two Kami in the garden who could
not bring themselves to make eye contact.

Chapter 15:

 The Wisdom of Solomon

Jill stared in horrified
awe at the young man who stood in front of her and brandished the most
beautiful flowering plant she had ever seen. “Every time I look at this plant,
and even when I don't, I see my family and I see that Count D, but he's not
Count D he is holding a baby and rocking back and forth laughing. Then he is
walking with a small child and when they turn to look at me, the child has my
eyes.”

“Mr. Montgomery, I am
sorry, I will take the plant from you and return it to the Count, but you
should not go to the pet shop or the effects will get worse.” Jill said hoping
that Ethan left before Leon
showed up.

“I know I should give it
up, but I... Feel as if I can't, the plant is special to me... I feel like I am
stuck in a Tolkien tale and that's my ring you know...” Ethan ground out and
reached out a trembling hand to stroke a petal. Jill placed a plastic bag over
the plant and sealed it. Ethan shook himself as if released from an
intoxicating haze. “I feel... Better,” Ethan commented and inhaled deeply.
“That sweet smell was driving me crazy with longing. I have always liked girls,
but that smell was making me want that man and no one else.”

“But you liked him the
moment you saw him and you questioned Chris when he was at camp... you wanted
him before the plant.” Jill said frowning at the blatant attempt to blame the
plant for his homosexual tendencies. Ethan glared at Jill before he stomped
from the PD. Jill took the plant intending to return it to the shop. She saw
Ethan standing outside watching her shove it into the car. She shook her head
and headed to the shop.

Break

“You're quiet Darling,” JJ
said that night as they prepared for bed. He noted that every time he looked at
Lord D his lover would blush and look away.

“Well, there is something
that has been on my mind for a few days now and well...” Lord D tightened the
sash on his bed robe. JJ frowned and loosened the robe. He had noted the change
in Lord D's once trim figure. “I was not rifling through your things, in fact
it was quit by accident that I found it.”

“Found...?” JJ sat on the
bed and waited for Lord D to turn around and show him what he held in his hand.
“Darling, what do you have?” Lord D was silent as he handed JJ the silken
handkerchief containing the badge. JJ stared down at the shiny Medal of Honor
and looked up at Lord D who sat beside him. “Him, you wanna know who he is.” It
was a statement devoid of the anger Lord D feared. “Ah Precious,” JJ said and
gently turned Lord D to face him. “The man who once wore this badge... Was me.”

“I... I don't understand,”
Lord D stared at JJ his confusion blatantly obvious.

“I told you that when I
came out to my family, they treated me badly and well,” JJ sighed. “When Nana
first became ill, they all practically abandoned her. I began to pay all of her
bills and see to her needs. They were going to put her in a nursing home. I
found out that the climate out here was ideal for her breathing condition and
well you can guess the rest.”

“So your last name is not
Jamison?” Lord D asked staring deep into JJ's eyes.

“Actually it is, my
mother's maiden name was Jamison and it is also Nana's last name. I was born
Jemmy Jamison Adams. When I transferred I told the commissioner here that my
name was Jamison and then I legally dropped the Adams.
I also did it for Ryo and Dee.” JJ grinned when Lord D stared at him in awe.
“Leo's group knew that Detective Adams worked on a case or two with the other
two and so it was peace of mind all the way around. Those two did not change
their names, but instead of Bikky Goldman, he is Bikky MacLean. It is a less
likely chance that they will be found. ”

“I feel kind of silly; I
don't know what I thought.” Lord D said with a rueful smile.

“You're allowed to be
silly, you're carrying our baby.” JJ pulled Lord D into his arms and broke into
laughter. “Anything else on your mind before I peel you out of that get up?”

“Actually yes, I asked...
Well, I asked my son what you meant the other and he did not know, so I asked
my son and he asked detective Laytner and well... Are you dissatisfied in bed
with me?”

JJ stared goggle eyed at
Lord D, “Dissatisfied...?” JJ asked and blinked several times before he
laughed. “You are so... great I wouldn't care if I were top or bottom as long
as I'm with you. Besides, your blow jobs more than make up for it.”

Lord D blushed looked away
from JJ. “Do you miss it sometimes?”

“Are you offering?” JJ
asked with a wink.

“Oh no... I mean, do you
want me to?” Lord D was so red that JJ laughed and handed him the tube of
lubricant. Lord D blushed and looked away from JJ who stripped from his clothes
and eagerly took the lubricant and poured it in Lord D's hand. Lord D stared
wide eyed at JJ who undid his bed robe and generously applied it to his budding
erection. JJ stroked until Lord D stood firm and ready. JJ lay on his back and
pulled Lord D on top of him. Lord D sighed as felt the pressure of his member
slipping inside of JJ who closed his eyes in pleasure.

"Oh yeah... Just like
that," JJ gasped and arched his back raising up to meet his beloved. Lord
D sighed in pleasure and new he was in for along night as he began to move
remembering the pleasure to be had in a tight enclosure of another’s body.

Break

Ryo had never been so
nervous in his entire life. He sat in the courtroom and looked at the judge
trying his best to smile. He straightened Bikky's tie nervously and swallowed. Dee sat and twitched his thumbs. Ryo had never felt so
alone. He was close to tears when the courtroom door opened and Count D walked
in along with Leon,
carrying Jewel. Followed by JJ and Lord D along with Jill and Diana, Sofu and
Lady Aurora walked in followed by High Princess Andromache and High Prince
Nestoir in full Arcadian dress including his crown and her tiara.

Nestoir winked at Ryo
before they sat down in the back of the room. “Detective MacLean, do you know
these people?” Cathy's lawyer asked when he got a good look at Andy and little
Nicklaus.

“They are friends of
mine,” Ryo answered. Charis walked forward and slammed her briefcase down on
the table.

“Get away from my client,
if you have questions ask them when he is under oath.”
Charis glowered at the man and he felt intimidated despite her small stature.
“You have to be strong Ryo and trust that all that happens today will be the
will of God... That Judge will be fair he is wise and impartial. I have prayed
that he will show honor and wisdom.” Ryo nodded.

“All rise for the
honorable Judge Mathias Olomon.” The Bailiff called out and the entire room
stood to their feet. Count D sighed when he sat on the hard chair It was uncomfortable, but for Ryo and Bikky and Dee, he would not budge. As the trial proceeded, Ryo
began to sweat. Cathy's lawyer was making him out to seem like a pervert. He
asked Bikky if he had ever slept in the bed with Ryo and if Ryo touched him
inappropriately.

“You Bastard,” Bikky yelled.
“Ryo is the kindest man I've ever met and you are cruel to suggest otherwise.
He has never hurt me, he has loved me, treated me like a son and has tried his
best to raise me and treat me well.” Bikky paused and wiped tears from his
face. “He became my father and that is a big responsibility for a cop to take
on, he did not have to. He could have left me at an orphanage, but he didn't he
took me home. I was a kid off the street and he took me home and loved me. That
is more than I can say for most people. Aunt Cathy, I was orphaned five years
ago where were you?” He asked breathing deeply and pointing an accusing finger.

“That will be enough; I
have no further questions, Miss Krystalis, your witness.” Cathy's lawyer said
and frowned before he turned away from Bikky.

“Bikky MacLean,” Charis
began.

Cathy's lawyer stood and
pounded his fist on the table, “I object your honor, his father named him Bikky
Goldman and...”

“My client adopted this
child legally and his name is legally MacLean pending the outcome of this
trial,” Charis said heatedly. Cathy's lawyer backed away in fear. For a moment,
Charis had looked deranged. “Bikky MacLean, have you ever met Cathy Ringwald
that lady that is your father's sister?” She asked Bikky who nodded. “I need a
yes or no answer child,” Charis said. Bikky nodded his understanding trying to
fathom why Charis was being so mean to him. She was usually stern, but kind,
now she seemed angry and harsh. Charis realized that she was scaring the child
and smiled at him hoping to reassure him.

“I met her when I was
really small, I don't know how old, could not have been much I have been with
Ryo since I was seven and it was some time in between that I first saw her.”
Bikky said and folded his arms. “And now I am starting to wish I had never met
her at all.”

“Bikky MacLean do you know
of the inheritance that your grandmother left for the son of her son in the
amount of one million dollars?” Charis asked with a smirk at Cathy.

Cathy stood to her feet
and glowered at Charis. “What has that to do with anything?” Cathy yelled.

“Order in this court
room,” Judge Olomon ordered and banged his gavel on the stand.

“I don't know what you are
talking about. If my father knew of a million dollars he would not have had to
sell drugs.” Bikky sat up and frowned. “Is that why she want me so much, does
my guardian get control of the funds?”

“You are a very smart
kid,” Charis inserted the words directly into Bikky's mind. Aloud she said:
“Your grandmother was aware of the lifestyles that your parents were living and
she felt sorry for you. She loved you and wanted to make sure that you had a
chance at a good life a chance to go to college. It is all here in her last
will. It is a letter addressed to you.” Charis handed Bikky a sealed envelope.

“Where did you get that?”
Cathy demanded.

“Order, sit down or I will
hold you in contempt,” The judge commanded.

“Will you read it aloud?”
Charis asked gently.

Bikky ripped into the
envelope and began to read, “You probably do not know of me, but my name is
Amelia Goldman, I am your grandmother. Your father was doing despicable things
and there was nothing that I could do to help him. When he died, I went to look
after you and found out that you were living a happy life with Detective Randy MacLean.
I am an old woman and it would stifle you to have to live with me, and so I am
doing the best thing and leaving you in his capable care. I wish you to be
happy child and I will leave all my assets to you to assure your proper care.
Do not think that I am abandoning you because I do not love you, but because I
love you, I am leaving you to his care.

Your loving Grand mother,

 Amelia Goldman.”

Bikky stopped reading and
smiled at Ryo and Dee. “She said that she was leaving him with Randy, not Randy
and his gay lover,” Cathy yelled, “I refuse to allow my nephew to live with
them.” Cathy ground out.

“If you were such a better
choice, why did Grand ma not tell me to go with you, she wanted me with Ryo.”
Bikky yelled and frowned.

“I have no further
questions your honor, the Child was my only witness.” Charis said and walked to
her seat and smiled at Ryo and Dee.

“I have reached my
decision,” The judge said when Cathy's lawyer declined to call another witness.
“It is true that Cathy Ringwald is the only surviving blood relative of the
child in question and in light of this evidence, I believe that the child
should be with his family. I will grant visitation to detectives Randy MacLean
and Dee Laytner. As for the inheritance in the amount of One million dollars, I
am granting that it is owed to Detective MacLean in repayment for the years
that he took care of this child.” The Judge raised his gavel and Ryo thought
his heart had stopped.

For the first time since
this entire mess began, Ryo burst into tears. Dee
placed his hand on Ryo's shoulders and wiped a tear of his own. “NO!” Bikky
screamed and fought against the bailiff's hold on his arm. “Ryo ... Daddy...
NO!” Bikky began to sob and kick furiously.

“Why are you giving him
the money, I've got the kid,” Cathy yelled. “Shouldn't I have it to assure his
upkeep?”

“Order... I will have
order in my courtroom,” Judge Olomon called and banged his gavel for attention.
“There once was a king in Biblical times by the name of Solomon. There came
before him two women who were squabbling over a child. One woman's child had
died and she stole the living child of the other woman. King Solomon decided to
cleave the child in two and give half to each woman. The true mother of the
child would have rather given the child to the other woman than to see him harmed.
In this same light, Detective MacLean would rather lose a million dollars, than
his son. In light of these new developments I will grant guardianship of one
Bikky MacLean to Detective Randy MacLean as well as awarding him the full
inheritance that has been left for his upkeep. Court is adjourned, bailiff
return the child to his parents.”

Bikky wrenched free from
the bailiff and ran throwing his arms around Ryo who held him close and sobbed
his joy into Bikky's soft golden hair. Dee
came over and patted Bikky's head. Charis grinned and began to stack her papers
into her briefcase and sent a triumphant smirk at Cathy's lawyer who was trying
to calm the incensed woman. Bikky turned to all their friends and sent them a
grateful smile for coming out to support them and smiled.

Chapter 16:

Separation Anxiety

Ryo walked back to his
friends who were all there waiting to congratulate him and paused. “Aunt
Elena... Uncle Rick... I am so glad to see you.” Ryo embraced his aunt and
uncle and smiled when they grinned at him and ruffled Bikky's hair. Ryo had
been so nervous that he had not noted them among the group of people who had
come out to support him and his family. Leon
left D's side to clap Dee on the back and
laughed when Aunt Cathy stomped out of the courtroom giving them all a
fulminating glare. “Man that was intense,” Leon said and sighed.

He would have said more,
but Sofu gasped and clutched his head dropping into his seat in pain. Q-Chan
left D's shoulder and landed on Sofu touching a small paw to his flushed cheek.. “I am fine, just a head ache love.” Sofu said and shook
his head to clear his vision. “See all better.” Sofu smiled at his miniature
wife. Jewel chose that moment to alert her parents that it was time for her
bottle. D immediately reached into their bag and shuffled through. He pulled
out several sandwiches that he had packed for the kids
lunch. Lord D clamped a hand over his mouth and rushed from the room. JJ stood
and followed him.

“Detective Jamison,” JJ
paused and looked to see who called him and looked after Lord D who blanched
and opened the door. JJ stood and spoke with a lawyer who had handled one of
his previous cases while tossing a sideways glance at the restroom.

Lord D barely made it to
the toilet before he tossed the contents of his heaving stomach. He was glad
that he had thought to tie his hair back before he left the pet shop for the
day. Without JJ here, it would surely be dipped into the toilet by now, so
great was his retching. Lord D's stomach calmed and sighed with immense relief
and wiped his mouth. He pulled a bottle of water from his pocket and rinsed his
mouth. “Oh how the beautiful have fallen,” Lord D grimaced as a voice from his
past was whispered near his ear. Lord D wrenched around and stared behind him
in horror.

“Hamanosuke,” D said
fearfully and backed away from his ex-lover. “May I ask why you are here?” Lord
D said calmly. He began to tremble when Hamanosuke grabbed his arms and turned
him to face the mirror.

“The same thing that will
always bring me to you. Love, Darling. That is what he calls you?”

Lord D took a deep breath
and calmed. He was tired of Hamanosuke showing up trying to ruin his happiness.
“Actually,” he said tartly. “Now he calls me Precious.” Lord D snatched away
from Hamanosuke. “Leave me alone Hamanosuke.” Lord D stalked towards the door
and was grabbed by Hamanosuke.

“You don't get it do you?
The last thought I had before your king sliced me in half was
you. I will know no rest until I have you as my possession. And,” Hamanosuke
growled as he drew back his hand and prepared to strike. “That whelp will never
see the light of day.” Lord D wrapped his arms protectively around his middle.
Hamanosuke's eyes lighted on the golden ring glinting on Lord D's left hand.
Hamanosuke grabbed Lord D and tried to pry the ring free. He frowned
thunderously when it would not budge. “What kind of spell is this?” Hamanosuke
tugged frantically against the ring and growled in anger when it would not
budge. “Tell me or so help me I will beat it our of
you.”

“No!” Lord D dropped to
his knees and covered his head with his arms. Thinking better of his actions he
then moved his arms to cover his stomach.

JJ halted mid-sentence and
looked down at the wedding band that was burning his finger. “Excuse me I need
a moment,” he explained and ducked into the restroom.

“Well, when you gotta
go...” The lawyer said and walked away.

“Please, Hamanosuke! NO!
My ... I am with child! Don't...” Lord D began to sob and covered his stomach
as much as he could. He turned his back to Hamanosuke and waited for the blow
that never fell.

“Get the hell away from
him,” Lord D looked up to see Hamanosuke flying backwards against the wall his
arm wrenched by JJ's grip.

Break

Andy looked down the
hallway in the direction of the men's restroom and frowned. Something did not
feel right she walked towards the door. “Where are you going? Women are over
there.” Nestoir said and pointed his wife in the right direction.

“But... I am having an odd
feeling.” She said and frowned mutinously at her husband.

“Lord D is probably
tossing again,” Nestoir said. He frowned at his wife when she handed him their
son and boldly marched to the men's restroom and threw the door open. She
tossed a triumphant look at her husband when she saw JJ standing in front of
Lord D and glowering at Hamanosuke Nimuri. Nestoir sighed, “Angel, encase the
place.” Nestoir sighed; he knew he would never hear the end of it from now on.
His wife would never let him live it down that he had been wrong and she had
been right.

Sofu and Q-Chan entered the
restroom along with D. He and Leon had left the children with Ryo so that they
could investigate what was keeping his father so long.

“You are the vilest
creature to ever breath,” JJ ground out to Hamanosuke. “Precious,” JJ said and
pulled Lord D to his feet.

“Get away from him, he's
mine!” Hamanosuke yelled at JJ.

“I will kill you,”
JJ said to Hamanosuke. Hamanosuke backed away from the fury in JJ's eyes. “How
dare you claim him, he is not yours. Living with you must have been hell. Never
knowing from day to day when you break into a rage and beat the shit out of
him.

Lord D heard a loud gasp and he looked at his son. “Child,” Lord D said and
lowered his head. “I never wanted you to know. It's why I feared for you in Leon's care.
Forgive me,” Lord D said and tears dropped onto his clasped hands.

“Oh father,” D said and
went and took his father into his arms.

“JJ, before you throttle
him, I have a question.” Andy said and moved faster than anyone had ever seen
her move. She pulled a stiletto from places unknown and shoved Hamanosuke
against the wall with the blade pointed at his throat. “How did you get here?
Where is your master?” Hamanosuke shut his mouth and glared at the irate
princess. “If you do not tell me, I will rip your throat out.”

“Master is plotting and
planning it is all he does.” Hamanosuke said and looked at D wiping his
father's face with a handkerchief. “All he does and sit
and think of different ways to get his hands on that old Kami. That is how he
never even realized that I had left. I want my lover back.”

“My son is not your lover,
not anymore.” Lord D looked up as Sofu stepped forward and glowered at
Hamanosuke. “I have exercised my rights as his father and revoked any promises
he made to you when you lived. I have also given my permission to Detective
Jamison here. That is something that can only be released upon my word. I do
not release him.” Sofu held up a small black marble and smiled at Andy.

“You you
do that, Sir D...” Andy smiled and the blade in her hand vanished as she backed
away from Hamanosuke. “JJ, finish what you started.” Andy went to her husband.
“D, Leon, I think we should retrieve our children.” Andy turned on her heel and
walked away from the ensuing carnage.

“Let's see how well you do
with some one who will fight back.” JJ said and prepared to charge at
Hamanosuke.

“No, please, Jemi-Chan.”
Lord D said clutching JJ's shirt. “He was a general in the emperor's vast army;
I do not want to see you hurt.” Lord D lowered his head onto JJ's chest.
“Aishiteru.”

“I love you too Precious,
and I won't be as hurt as you think. I had to learn to protect myself early on.
Kids tend to pick on the little gay boy, you know what I mean.” JJ winked and
kissed Lord D's forehead before he pried his fingers loose and went after
Hamanosuke.

“Why do you call him
precious?” Hamanosuke asked and prepared to attack JJ.

“Because he is,” JJ said
and punched Hamanosuke. Lord D stared in awe as the man who he had feared; the
man who had beaten him, was himself beaten. JJ backed away from the unconscious
Chinese man lay slumped against the bathroom wall. He turned his back and took
Lord D into his arms. “I told you I would be ok.” He grinned and kissed Lord D
deeply.

“And so am I,” Hamanosuke
said. He coughed blood into his hand and stood to his feet. “Time for round
two.”

“I would like to introduce
you to my wife.” Sofu said, he looked around to make sure that Leon and D were
no where to be seen. He nodded and Q-Chan flapped her wings before turning into
Lady Aurora. “As you know, the female of any species is far more vicious than
any male. Give that female eternal life and fangs and well... You have one
blood thirsty little female. Add to that deadly mixture maternal instincts and
I give you... Hell.” Sofu smiled and backed away from his wife who was seething
with anger.

Aurora hissed and snatched Hamanosuke to
her and growled. “How dare you hurt my son?” Lady Aurora grasped Hamanosuke's
hair and began to pull. “That happened to be the century that I left him in the
complete care of his father and this is what happened.” She tugged harder. “You
will regret laying a hand on him.” She grew louder and her fangs were now
hideously sharper. Lord D stared in horror at his mother. She growled and
hissed at Hamanosuke who screamed and thrashed around. Sofu noted what his wife
was doing and raised his arms using his cloak to block his son's view as his
mother ripped Hamanosuke's head off and then shoved a hand down the profusely
bleeding esophagus and pulled his heart out. She threw it to the ground and
stomped on it.

The husk of Hamanosuke
fell to the floor she calmly walked to the sink and washed her hands. “I am
ready to return home,” Lord D said in a shaky voice. He looked at JJ, then his mother and his face turned green. JJ very quickly
held him over a toilet. Angel blanched and closed his hands dispelling the orb
that had encased the restroom. Andy looked around and smiled. The blood
spattering and smears were no where to be seen, her smile fading at the sound
of Lord D's retching.

Break

Bikky smiled up at Ryo's
aunt and uncle as they handed him gifts. He was so glad to be back at the pet
shop. D sat feeding Aoi/Jewel speaking softly to her in Mandarin. JJ had taken
Lord D and put him to bed. “You think Dae will want revenge for this?”

“So what if he does,” Andy
said disdainfully and helped herself to a heaping bowl of pudding.

Chapter 17:

Welcome Home Bikky

Lord D opened his eyes and
looked around the empty room. Where was JJ? Lord D sat up and sighed, he looked over to the table beside his bed and
smiled. He appreciated the breakfast that JJ had left for him along with
flowers in a crystal vase and a note.

Precious,

I had to get to work early today there is a case that we
are all

working on. See you tonight and wear that sheer thing you
have hidden in

the back of the closet.

 JJ

Now how had he known about
that? Lord D wondered as he blushed and picked up a sweet glaze covered
croissant. He was nibbling fruit with his bathrobe held loosely about him when
he entered his closet and looked at the gift that Dee and Ryo had given him
shortly after the commitment ceremony. Lord D finished his breakfast and
bathed. He left his room and Found D sitting in the garden feeding Aoi.

“She eats every two hours,
it's like clockwork.” D said and smiled up at his father. Lord D smiled and sat
beside his son on the soft grass. “Andy will be over today. She has special
gifts for the children.”

“Gifts?” Lord D said and
looked over at his grand daughter and felt a soft fluttering in his heart.

“Yes, the year before
last, for Halloween, Chris was a detective like Leon, and last year he was a ninja
like me. Now he wants to be an Arcadian Prince. Andy is bringing me materials
so that I can make the costume.” D paused and gazed at his father. “ChiChiUe,”
Lord D looked up at the softly spoken words. D's brows furrowed as he looked at
his father. “Something is different about you.”

“Well,” Lord D said and
blushed. “I have passed my fourth month and my second accommodation So I may be a bit rounder.” Lord D looked away from the
amusement on his son's face.

D laughed softly not once
had his hands ceased to gently rock the bassinet that contained his sleeping
baby girl. “Well there is certainly no denying that...” D laughed and paused
before looked sideways at his father. His hair fell around him in a cloud of
black silk. “This is something else, I can not readily explain it... it is
almost like,” D sighed as he reached out a hand and touched his father's
sleeve. D continued to look at his father considering his words. “It is almost
like happiness is a cloak over you, you shine ChiChiUe. It is beautiful... you
are beautiful.”

Inexplicable tears
gathered and fell from Lord D's large, expressive, purple eyes and spilled onto
his smooth pale cheeks. The tears fell onto his neatly folded hands as he
looked at his son. Lord D lowered his eyes and blinked rapidly. D reached over
and slid a hand along his father's face wiping the tears. “Thank you,” Lord D
whispered. He wanted to say more but he was having a difficult time getting
sound past the boulder sized lump in his throat. “I...” Lord D inhaled deeply
and tried again. “I have to go and prepare. Today is JJ's birthday.” Lord D
blushed and stumbled to his feet and left the fragrant garden in tears. D stood
to his feet and gathered Aoi close.

Leon found D standing staring blankly
towards the door. He wrapped his around D from behind. “Hey baby, dare I say
that lost in thought look is a result of me?”

“Actually I was thinking
of JJ,” D said with a grin and lifted his face to accept Leon's kiss.
“How is the case going?”

“Fine and dandy,” Leon said
snuggling the creamy expanse of neck. “So when should I kill JJ?”

“Kill him?” D asked and
handed Leon Aoi.

Leon kissed her head gently before he
smiled at D. “You are standing in this romantic garden and staring off thinking
of him.”

“Jealous dear lover?” D
said softly and sashayed away from Leon. “You know she is three weeks
old. In three more weeks...” D allowed the words to trail off and he gazed at Leon with
blatant invitation.

“If I still have three
weeks, you had better cool those looks.” Leon said and suppressed a shiver
as he stared hotly at D's retreating figure. D looked teasingly over his
shoulder before he laughed and walked away.

“I have told you...
Anticipation is part of the pleasure. I look forward to when you...” D halted,
and said no more. Leon
stared at his daughter hoping to ignore the feelings that D was trying to
evoke. He refused to walk around with a third leg bent double for three weeks.
But blast, Leon
thought and looked where D had wandered off to, it was hard.

Break

Lord D dragged a brush
through his hair and chose a yellow ribbon. He was just securing it when JJ
walked in wearing a smile and carrying flowers. “Why are you buying me gifts?
It is your birthday.”

JJ pulled Lord D into his arms
with a flourish and kissed him. “You are my gift.” JJ said softly against Lord
D's lips. Lord D smiled. “I booked us a hotel room, you ready?” Lord D blushed
and opened his cheongsam to show the sheer creation underneath. He quickly
retied the bow and backed teasingly away from JJ who grinned and followed him
from the room.

The restaurant was classy
that JJ brought Lord D to. They sat in the soft candle light and stared deeply
into each other's eyes. The waitress had been standing at the table edge for a
good six minutes before being noticed. She did not mind, seeing two people so
obviously in love was balm to her heart. She stared down at her ring finger and
sighed. Her own wedding band had been recently removed. It was no one's fault
but her own that she was divorced. “Sumimasen,” Lord D whispered to JJ before
he excused himself and went to the men’s room.

“Ah, what vegetarian meals
do you have?” JJ asked as she stared open mouthed at the beautiful creature
that went into the men's rest room. “He might be feeling a bit queasy.” JJ
looked meaningfully at the table next to them where the man was slicing into a
cut of rare beef steak. “Would it be possible to move our table?” JJ said with
a smile.

“Yes sir, we have a table
for two open by the veranda, would that be better?” She asked and breathed
deeply trying to assimilate that the outrageously beautiful Asian was not a
woman.

“That will be fine; I will
go and get him.” JJ said and entered the rest room. He emerged moments later
with Lord D. The waitress smiled and lead them to the
new table. As they settled down JJ leaned close to Lord D. “How is your
stomach?” He asked and looked deeply into Lord D's eyes. Lord D smiled and
nodded that he was ok. “Why aren't you speaking?” JJ asked concerned.

“Will they not find it odd
that we are both male?” Lord D said looking around the crowded restaurant.

“So what if they do. I am
not ashamed of you.” JJ said, “it's my birthday, and I
want to enjoy an evening out with the person I love. That means that after you
have stuffed yourself on the dessert, you will be escorted onto the dance floor
and you will dance with me.” Lord D blushed and nodded. The waitress came back
for their orders and smiled when Lord D asked for the vegetarian meal and three
different desserts. JJ held in his laughter at her perplexed look. Dinner was
an enchanting affair. Several servers came out to see the beautiful person
sitting at the table laughing and talking while eating perfectly. The band
playing softly in the back ground seemed to swirl around him. The candles made
his skin glow

Many of the patrons were
envious of JJ's good fortune in having such a beautiful companion. After the
last morsel of Chocolate-peanut butter trifle had been spooned into Lord D's
tempting mouth and his lips licked clean. JJ stood and bowed near his chair.
“Dance with me Precious.” Lord D smiled and demurely took his hand. If the
bands music seemed a back drop to Lord D while he ate, now as they watched him
in JJ's arms the music seemed to be his accompaniment. “You are so beautiful.”
JJ said whole heartedly and kissed Lord D deeply. “Let's go,” JJ said and lead
Lord D upstairs to their room. The meal would be charged to his bill along with
a generous tip for their waitress. She had been wonderful.

Lord D stared about in
awe. After dinner, JJ had took him by the hand and led
him to a concert hall in the hotel. Lord D followed mutely and wondered what JJ
had up his sleeve. The crowd was immense he looked around for a clue to what
was showing and gasped. He stared in awe at JJ. “12 Girls Band.” Lord D said
softly and followed him to their seats. The band started up and Lord D was lost
on a wave of pure sound. JJ looked over at Lord D and felt as if the sun shone
on seat 15 aisle A.

Lord D stared owl eyed at
JJ and backed away into the lush hotel room. JJ grinned when Lord D silently
undid the buttons on his elegant robe. JJ had to take several deep breaths to
keep from ripping the clothing from Lord D and jumping him. The robe was doffed
and hung neatly. Lord D stood wearing only the thin see through robe. It
sparkled and had a star design. The robe flowed to the floor and had an opaque
shimmering pattern on the bottom.

Lord D sat on the bed and
stared at JJ expectantly. JJ licked his lips and walked over to the bed. He undid
his shirt and tossed it aside. JJ noted the new roundness to Lord D's middle
and smiled. “You are so beautiful Precious.” JJ said and took off his pants
next. He crawled onto the bed and leaned over to lick the creamy expanse of
neck.

“Make love to me,” Lord D
said prettily and turned his head to accept JJ's kiss. JJ was all too happy to
comply. With a smile he leaned Lord D back against the hotel’s plush pillows
and plundered his mouth. Lord D gasped and enjoyed the feeling of JJ’s expert
hands traveling over his sensitive skin. JJ smiled and marveled that all this
beauty was his to touch, his to kiss, his to make love to. Lord D cried out and
arched his back accepting JJ into his inner most sanctum. JJ forgot about the
outside world as he moved against his love. All that remained was the tightness
enclosing his body and the joy encompassing his heart.

Break

D sat and watched as Andy
sifted through the yards of cloth that she had brought from Arcadia. “I also got you some patterns. You
said Carol wants to be a Princess along with some of Chris other friends from
school want to join them.” D nodded and peeked at Aoi to make sure she still
slept. “It is so flattering that they all want to be Royalty. When I told His
Majesty he was very pleased.”

“Thank you Andy, Chris has
been bouncing off the walls ever since you promised the cloth. He will be home
from school in about...” The door burst opened and Chris ran in waving a paper
frantically. “Calm down child, and tell me what is so exciting.” D said and
restrained the exuberant child.

- Bikky gave it to me
today at school. - Chris handed over the envelope that Chris held crumpled in
his small hand.

D looked at Chris before
he smiled, “Why Christopher, I do believe you have gotten taller.” D said and
smiled. “Why don't you run off and show this to Leon, he is napping, but it is time
for him to wake up.” Chris nodded and ran off to the back of the shop.”

“Way to get rid of the
kid, care to tell me why?” Andy said and sipped her tea. She picked up little
Nicklaus.

“My father, I have never
seen him behave this way,” D confessed and smiled when Aoi shifted in her
sleep. “One minute he is happiness itself and the next he is weeping. And when
he left with JJ...” D blushed and looked away. “I am surprised JJ left here with
his pants on.”

“I dare say, have you forgotten your mercurial mood swings when you
were pregnant?” Andy asked with a grin. “You were a holy terror, Leon was nearly
insane.”

“Oh yes,” D said blushing
and looking away. He looked at the envelope that Chris had handed him. “So, Ryo
and Dee are having a party to celebrate their court victory.”

“Yes we got the invitation
this morning.” Andy said agreeing to change the subject. “So how is dear Leon holding
up?” Andy asked when she saw Leon
look into the room before heading to the kitchen.

“Well, lets
just say that his arrest record has gone up and Jill complained about his
brutality. He never has done well with abstinence.” D said and held in a laugh.
“I suppose my teasing is not helping matters.”

“D are you misbehaving?”
Andy asked and grinned conspiratorially at her friend. “I hope you are ready to
pay the price. For every action there is a reaction.”

“I know, but I think I may
have started teasing him too soon.” D looked worried at the tea.

“Then help him out.” Andy
said and thought back to her own time of restraint for her husband.

“My lady?” D asked and
watched Andy heat a bottle with her bare hands and begin to feed Nicklaus. Andy
shifted on her seat and reached into a pocket pulling out a cold strawberry flavored
Popsicle. D said nothing and opened the Popsicle and began to eat it. Leon walked
into the room and sat down with his kitchen find. D looked at the glazed dough
nuts that Leon
had been devouring lately.

“Good thing I'm a cop and
I get plenty of exercise, or these things would have me looking like a blimp.” Leon muttered
and sighed. “But in three weeks I won't have to substitute.” Andy looked away
from Leon's
blatant heated gaze as he stared at D.

“So, I am looking forward
to this party.” She said loudly and rocked her baby. D said noting but he took
the entire Popsicle in his mouth and slowly brought it out again all the while,
smiling at Leon.

Break

D stood wearing a bathrobe
over his wet skin and ran a hand over his long hair. He had followed Andy's
advice and Leon
was in the shower. D winced when he heard what could only be Leon singing.
His dearest certainly could not hold a tune. He listened for a while longer for
the shower to turn off. After making sure that Leon was wrapped in a towel. He
smiled and called out. “Leon,”
Leon
poked his head out of the bathroom and looked at D. “You know, I am able to
control my appearance and well. If you cut my hair I can maintain it.”

“Really, so what ever hair
style I cut, you will keep?” Leon
asked smiling and reaching into a drawer. He pulled out the scissors and
several combs. D stood still and closed his eyes. He knew Leon liked his
hair long, but he was so tired of having to brush through the lengths. As he
stood he felt as if a heavy weight was lifted from him. Leon finished
and brushed through the silken tresses one last time. D looked into the mirror
and gasped. His hair was the original length he had when they met. Maybe an
inch longer, but it was short.

“Leon... I thought...” D blinked and ran
a hand through his wet hair.

Leon winked and kissed D softly before
he went about packing the diaper bag. D shook his hair one last time before he
went about choosing a cheongsam that he would wear to Bikky's party.

Break

Ryo hung a large sign on
the dining room wall and smiled. “CONGRATULATIONS!” it read. He had not felt so
lighthearted in a long time. Not since the whole mess had started with Aunt
Cathy. Bikky ran into the room and gazed at the sign. He wrapped his arms
around Ryo and smiled. “Count D called, the Arcadians are coming.”

“I know.” Ryo said with a
laugh. “It means I will have to cook a lot more pasta.” Ryo said and wandered
into check his simmering pots.

“I hope you have lots of
onions in that sauce Ryo,” Carol said and walked into the room. Aunt Elena
looked up from her magazine and smiled. She had loved Ryo like her own son ever
since he was eighteen. Her son was now in college and he looked forward to
being a lawyer. He had always dreamed of being a lawyer so that he could
persecute the men his cousin arrested. Elena had not minded that James looked
up to Ryo, not one little bit.

“Why don't you go and set
the table, use the good china.” Ryo told Bikky and grinned as the opened. Dee stood back and allowed them all in.

“What are you talking
about? Good China, we have
the good China
right here.” Leon
said and winked at D. Dee blinked as he got a good look at D's haircut. Ryo
noted the calm look to Leon
and he grinned D must have found a way to calm Leon's abstinence caused rage. Ryo
did not want to know how he glared at Dee and
figured that he was somehow involved. Lord D blushed when JJ leaned over and
kissed his cheek. They were just sitting down to dinner when the doorbell rang.
Ryo was laughing when he opened the door. His laughter died as he looked at
Aunt Cathy and her husband.

“Ah... Detective MacLean,
Randy...” Aunt Cathy began she paused as Bikky, having heard her voice, ran and
wrapped his arms around Ryo's waist and stared mutinously at her. “I am here to
get to know Bikky.” She said and looked away from the accusation in Dee's eyes. He had come to stand behind Ryo and offer his
support. “I don't want any money, or custody, I just want to get to know him.
He is my nephew.” Dee glared at her and
refused to say a word.

“Why don't you come in?”
Ryo said surprising them all. “We were just about to have dinner. Dee, will you set out two more place settings?” Ryo
stepped back and allowed them into his home. “It’s pasta, Bikky's favorite.”

“I love Daddy's spaghetti
and meatballs.” Bikky said making it a point to hold on to Ryo's hand. Chris
was confused. Bikky usually called Ryo by name, but now? D shook his head at
Chris' confused look. Cathy smiled at Bikky before she sat beside her husband.
She noted the large “CONGRATULATIONS” sign. She smiled at Bikky and sighed, she
came to a sudden realization.

“You know,” she said to
Ryo when he handed her a glass of soda. “You won more than a court case... You
won your family.”

“I will live here,” Bikky
stated happily. “But there is no reason you can not be apart of our family.
These are my parents and you are my aunt. Family.”
Bikky grinned at Dee. “I will never forget
it.”

Later when Ryo went to
fetch dessert he cornered Andy in the kitchen. “Thank you, for touching Cathy.”
Ryo said and embraced her.

Andy returned the hug with
an extra squeeze. “I did not do a thing.”

Chapter 18:

Mélange De Psychosis

D stretched long and
yawned. It had to be three in the morning. Aoi had been crying for what seemed
like an eternity. Leon
had walked her in a circle for about an hour, then D ha taken over. “Why does
she keep screaming?” Leon
asked worried that something was wrong. D shrugged and put on his bath robe. He
walked to his father's room almost hating to knock on the door. His father
seemed so tired lately. He hated the warm weather and with his enlarged
condition he was even more miserable.

Tears gathered in D's eyes
and Leon
panicked. “D baby what is it?”

“I don't know.” D
exclaimed and sat down on the bed sobbing. “She's sick... I think... She's only
three and a half weeks old. I did every thing I was told how could she be sick?
I fed her and then I laid her in her bed and she started to cry. I picked her
up for a bit and rocked her and then laid her down again and she began to
scream. She has been screaming since.”

“It is a common
occurrence, please child calm down.” D looked up gratefully as his father
walked into the room and took Jewel from Leon and held her close. “It is
called colic. It is indeed common to most babies. I would have been surprised
if she had not gotten it what with the climate in here.”

“She's ill because I keep
it too warm in here?” D began to panic at the thought that it was indeed his
fault.

“No, she has fluid and
congestion I have something that will clear it right up. Thank the Father that
she is half Kami. Human parents would probably kill for this.” Lord D held up a
small bottle and sprayed a light mist above Jewel's little head. Within moments
the screaming slowed to a whine and finally a few hiccups and then she breathed
deeply and stared up at her grandfather with big crystal blue eyes.

“My baby,” D cried and
accepted the child from his father. Leon stood behind and peered over
his shoulder as he cuddled the baby who gave a wide yawn and went to sleep.

“I'll leave this on the
nightstand here next to the...” Lord D paused and blushed when he saw the tube
of lubricant that rested there. “Well its here.” Lord D smiled and realized
that Leon and D were not paying him any attention. The door shut softly and
Lord D went back into his room He crawled into bed waking JJ in the process.

“Upset over?” JJ asked
groggily and snuggled the warm neck in front of his mouth. “Umm you are so
sweet.” JJ grinned and undid Lord D's bed robe. He kissed the rising mound of
Lord D's tummy. “Get some sleep gorgeous. You must be tired.” Lord D sighed in
contentment and drifted off to sleep.

Break

Leon and D slept late into
the day leaving Lord D to see the children off to school. He sighed tiredly and
stretched before he went to dress. Today he would be heading off to see Nana
and give her a checkup. “It was so easier when your Nana lived here with us.”
Lord D said softly and went to find a suitable cheongsam to wear.

“Ah about that
Precious...” JJ hedged and looked down at his wedding band. “Nana needs me to
go back to her house to stay.”

“When will you be back?”
Lord D asked wide eyed and looked sadly at JJ.

“You see that is just it.”
JJ sat on the bed and pulled Lord D to sit beside him and did not release his
hands. “I want you to come with me. This shop is well run by D now and...” JJ
paused as he got a look at the horrified look on Lord D's face.

“Jemi-Chan... I have
missed so much of my son's life and now... with Aoi he may need me more than
ever.” Lord D said softly looking away from the pain in JJ's wide expressive eyes.

“Precious,” JJ said and
took Lord D's left hand. “That ring you wear, by choice I may add, means you
belong with me. Where I go... you go. I want you at my side ... I Love You!” JJ
exclaimed and pulled Lord D into his arms. “Just think about it love, please.”
JJ said and prepared for bed. He gently placed his hand on the large tummy that
housed their child. “Are you sure you are only four months along?” He said with
a immediate lightening of the mood.

“Yes I am sure.” Lord D
said willing to speak no more of it, if only for tonight. He looked down and
marveled at his size. He was exceedingly large. Larger even than D was at the
same stage of his pregnancy, Lord D looked down with a smile and patted his
mound of belly. “Perhaps I have been eating a lot more lately...” Lord D said
with a blush and looked away from JJ who pulled the sheets back and crawled
into bed. JJ wrapped his arms around Lord D and drifted off to sleep.

Break

Chris stood in front of D
and Leon and posed while D snapped pictures. Bikky and several of their friends
from school all marched around in full Arcadian regalia. “You all look
wonderful.” Andy gushed and clapped her hands excitedly. “Don't they look
fabulous?” She asked her husband who smiled and extracted a burp from their
son. “Have fun tonight kids and remember, it is a costume party, not a
Halloween party.”

“What's the difference?”
Catherine asked perplexed. She loved the flowy dress she had been given to
dress as Princess Tisiphone.

“I'll explain it some
other time, have fun sweetie.” Andy said and ushered the kids out of the door.
“They will have forgotten by tomorrow afternoon.” She said with a sweet smile
and went to enjoy the pastries set out for the adults. Andy looked at the large
shape under elegantly patterned silk and walked over to Lord D. “So how many
months are you?” She whispered.

“Four,” Lord D answered
and blushed. He halted mid way to putting a powdered jelly dough nut into his
mouth. “Father thinks I an carrying an excess of
water.” Sofu looked away from his son and smiled into his cup of Maisia juice.
He ignored the glower from Lady Aurora and headed over to speak to Heaven.

Break

Lord D crawled into bed
and snuggled up to JJ. “So, have you thought about it?” JJ whispered to Lord D
and kissed his cheek.

“Well yes I have thought
about it and I have to say... Well not right now.” Lord D looked away from the
pain in JJ's expression. “D needs me and...”

“I need you.” JJ said Lord
D reached out to him but JJ had already turned away. Lord D sighed and pulled
the blankets away from him. It was always too warm in here and he had turned
the heat off in his room. Lord D stood from the bed and headed to the garden.
He passed by a mirror and paused to look at himself in the glass. Lord D
sighed, he had gotten large. Lord D placed his hands on his stomach and smiled
soon he would be able to feel movements. JJ turned over in his sleep and Lord D
blinked away tears and left the room.

Break

Lord D sat silent
throughout breakfast and blinked several times. He wanted to say so much to JJ
but the words just got choked up around the lump in his throat. JJ stood to
leave for work and Lord D followed to kiss him good bye. By the time Lord D
made it to the door JJ had already left. Lord D sighed and retreated to his
room. Q-Chan chirped and left D to follow him. At the office Leon handed a
stack of papers to Jill who grinned and began to resettle them. “Man Chief must
really be mad at us to give us so much desk work.” She said and winked at Ryo.
Ryo smiled he had been trying all day to elicit a smile from JJ and had been
unsuccessful.

Lunch time came around and
Leon
was about to suggest that they all head to their favorite diner for lunch. He
looked up and saw Lord D standing with a large basket. “Ah hey Papa D, JJ went
out on a call with Jill they should be back shortly. Is that lunch?” Lord D
smiled and nodded. Leon
looked at him closely and frowned.

“It's a glamour, detective. I can control my
appearance. D is too young to attempt such a feat.” Leon was a bit surprised by Lord
D's subdued manner.

“Are you ok?” Leon said and
took the basket and ushered Lord D into his office. Lord D sat on the couch and
said nothing. Leon
sighed went to get him a cup of water.

“God Leon, there are some stupid people
out there seriously if a man is kicking your... What the hell are you doing here?”
JJ stormed into the room and saw Lord D sitting at the desk.

“I... I... I brought ... I
made lunch.” Lord D said wide at JJ's tone of voice. JJ shook his head and
began to apologize when Lord D stood. “WHAT DID YOU DO?” JJ took Lord D's arms
and stared down in horror at his perfectly slim figure.

Lord D wrenched away from
JJ and cowered trembling on his previously vacated chair. “It's just a glamour; I am controlling my figure
that's all.” Lord D said he peeked up at JJ through his cloud of loose hair.

“I'm sorry Precious, look
I've been under a lot of stress lately and well... Just go home ok.” JJ said
and covered his face with his hands. “Just go home.”

“I understand.” Lord D
said in a soft fearful voice that JJ had hoped to never hear from him.

“No... No sweetie you
don't understand.” JJ said and looked behind him to see that he was alone in
the room. JJ sighed Lord D was a pro when it came to escaping what he perceived
to be physically dangerous situation. JJ sank into a chair and heaved a
defeated sigh. A loud noise from the main office caused JJ to jump and reach
for his gun. “Oh no, Precious.” JJ said and ran from the office to see people
running from the building. He looked for and found Lord D huddle near the door
as pedestrians rushed past him. Although he appeared slim, JJ could see the
strain on him the crowd was having. JJ thought his heart had stopped when in a blink, Lord D vanished in the crowd. JJ moved like a man
possessed pulling people out of his way.

“Precious... Darling!” JJ
called, he found Lord D on the floor in a little ball with his arms wrapped
securely around his stomach. “It's ok, I've got you.” JJ said and tucked Lord
D's body underneath his own. He felt the brunt of the crowd as they rushed past
him. JJ pulled Lord D's legs more securely underneath him and tucked his head
under his chin. “Just relax, I'll take of you.” JJ said and kissed the top of
Lord D 's head. JJ grunted when he felt something
large and blunt connect with his head. He felt something warm and thick trickle
down his neck but he would not release Lord D to find out how badly he was
wounded. He winced when he heard several more shots being fired. Lord D
trembled and clutched JJ's arms in fear.

“ALL CLEAR!” The chief
called and JJ looked up. He blinked several times to clear his vision. He saw
the smoke in the room and several corpses littered the floor. “The Mazarriti
family decided that today was the day that they would exact their revenge. Too
bad it was also the day of the High school field trip and your Lover's lunch
break eh Jamison.” The chief helped JJ to his feet and gasped at the amount of
blood that stained his shirt. “We need medical attention over here.”

“I'm a doctor,” Lord D
said and placed his hands on JJ's head. “We have to stop the blow flow.” Leon stood back
in amazement as Lord D directed the officers of the precinct. After he had
settled JJ he began to look over several wounded teenagers and officers. The
criminals he saw to last. By the time the ambulance showed up Lord D had them
all in bandages and all the EMP needed to do was transport them to the
hospital.

Once JJ had been shown to
a room Lord D placed his hands on his head and used his power to sooth the
pain. Lord D gasped and placed both hands flat to his stomach. “What? What?” JJ
panicked when Lord D stared wide eyed at him. Lord D said nothing, but he took
JJ's hand and pressed it to his stomach JJ felt plainly the movement of his
child. “Precious, I'm sorry, I mean. My family is horrible and they are coming
over and... Today I got a call to go to a case and even though the guy was
beating this woman mercilessly she still begged us not to arrest him. He was a
piece of crap and... why would you stay somewhere so
horrible?” JJ sighed and moved over on the bed and pulled Lord D down beside
him. “I am sorry Precious that I have been so horrible lately. You do know that
I will never ever raise my hand to you don't you?”

“I want to believe that, I
do, but sometimes I get so frightened.” Lord D said and wiped away a tear then
another. “Old habits die hard.” Lord D said softly and kissed the palm that was
pressed to his face.

“I know actions speak
louder than words and my actions haven't been saying much in my defense. If you
want to stay with your son, that...” JJ sighed and closed his eyes against the
bright light of the hospital room. “I will deal with it.” Lord D sighed and JJ
looked down to see that Lord D was asleep.

Break

Leon sighed in pure pleasure. D was so
good. Leon
found it hard to believe that a little over a year ago he had needed help in
this particular area. “D baby...” Leon moaned and stroked Count D's
head. “Right there... Don't stop... I'm... Com...” Leon closed his eyes and leaned
back against the head board. He felt D slide up beside him and lean on his
shoulder. “Two more weeks and I will be so deep inside you...”

“Waaahhhhh,” Leon blinked
and sat up in bed and looked into the adjoining room to see the little bundle
thrashing around in her little bassinet. D wiped his mouth and washed his hands
before he went into the room and scooped the child into his arms.

“Oh, who's got a wet
bottom?” D crooned.

“I do,” Leon grumbled
and headed to the shower with a smile. He was looking forward to the time when
he did not have to abstain.

Chapter 19:

Swirling Vortex

Leon closed his eyes in bliss and
stroked the soft as silk hair that brushed against his stomach as D took him
fully into his mouth. “OOOHHH… Baby, you are so wonderful.” Leon closed his eyes and sank into
D's mouth with a low moan of pleasure. Count D swirled his tongue along the
sides of Leon’s
dripping erection and then stabbed his agile tongue into the slit at the tip. Leon hissed and
bucked his hips upwards towards the hot mouth that was driving him crazy. Count
D heard the gasp and looked up to see their bedroom door opened.

“Pardon me... I am so...”
Lord D blushed and turned on his heel exiting the room at a quick pace. Leon wanted to say something, but D had been too
shocked to move an inch and Leon
lost the ability to do anything as he felt himself explode. D was unprepared
for it and coughed before he backed away and Leon continued onto D's hands.

“Ah shit, Baby, I'm...” Leon would have
said more but he realized what he had said and what part of his body was
nearest D's mouth that he could readily bite. Leon peeked down at D and saw that
his face was going through varying shades of red and white. “Baby?”

“ChiChiUe.” D said and
looked up at the empty doorway that had been shut with a brisk embarrassed
snap. D sighed and wiped a hand across his face he looked up at Leon when it
came away sticky.

“Sorry I ... Didn't mean
to do that.” Leon
said with a smirk. D wiped his hands on the tissue that Leon held out
for him and then cleaned his face. Leon could not help but notice that
D resembled one of his cats taking a bath. Leon hid a smile and pulled his
pants up before he looked about the room to see why D was so out of it. Finding
nothing He crawled into bed and pulled D close to him and began to fall asleep.
“I love you.” Leon
said and kissed D's ear. D wanted to smile, but he was concerned at the shocked
look that had been on his father's face. D looked at Leon
and realized his aspired reaction was of no consequence, Leon was
asleep.

Break

Ryo held his gun ready, no
way was he going to allow some small town hood to get the best of him. “I said
freeze, I am not afraid to shoot you.” He glared at him,
the boy could not have been more than seventeen years old.

“I know you,” The boy
taunted and took a step away from Ryo. Ryo sighed, it was a sure sign that the
boy would try to run. If he did Ryo would have no choice but to hurt him. “Your
kid goes to my brother's school. Everyone knows you're queer.” The boy smirked
and took another step. Ryo prepared to shoot. “You don't have to balls to
satisfy a woman, you sure don't have to balls to shoot me...” The boy bolted
and Ryo aimed for the fleshy part of his thigh. The young man howled in pain
and fell. “You bastard, you shot me.

“I told you to freeze.”
Ryo snapped and approached cautiously. “Are you still armed?” Ryo asked when he
dropped a knee into the boy's back to hold him steady. He refused to answer and
Ryo proceeded to pat him down.

“Keep your hands off of
me, this is sexual harassment.”

Ryo slapped cuffs on the
kid and yanked him to his feet. “Don't flatter yourself punk. You don't have
the balls to satisfy me.” Ryo yanked his radio out of its case, “Dee, how's it going?”

“His partner is in custody
and you?” Dee's voice came through the walkie
talkie.

“Satisfied, I'll be right
over.” Ryo smirked and hauled the young armed robber over to the waiting police
car.

“Satisfied?” Dee asked when Ryo placed the kid in the vehicle.

“You had to be there.” Ryo
frowned at the kid and deliberately trailed a hand down Dee's
side. “Or rather, I soon will be.”

“I like when you're
ravenous, anything like the time when Lord D gave me those pills?” Dee asked with a smile as he got into the car and began
to drive.

Ryo looked into the rear
view mirror to see if the young man was freaked out. He grinned. “If you are
lucky.”

“I'm feeling lucky.” Dee said with a wink at his lover.

“Very lucky.” Ryo affirmed
and Dee pressed his foot on the gas hoping to
deposit their cargo and get home as fast as possible.

Break

D took a deep breath and
approached his father. Lord D stood in front of the green house. D smiled, his
father was radiant in his blue and white patterned robe. The sleeves were just
long enough to cover his slim fingers. D sighed and cleared his throat.
“Child,” Lord D said with out turning around. “You are well I trust?”

“Yes of course father. I
am ready for my check up.” D answered hoping his father would turn around. Last
night had been a disaster that Leon
was unaware of. He had sauntered of to work this morning after kissing jewel's
little head.

“Then come, walk with me
to my room.” Lord D turned around and smiled at his blushing son. D grinned
happily that his father was not giving him a disapproving look. As D undressed
he looked over his body and smiled. There were no unsightly stretch marks.
Having Leon
massage cream onto his stomach as he grew larger had been an excellent idea. He
would be sure to thank his grandfather. “You are healing well child.” Lord D
said looking over his neat stitches. “Child...” Lord D said when he began to
wash his hands.

“Yes?” D asked while he
pulled his robe up around his slim, pale shoulders.

“I have been meaning to
speak with you. This shop is now your responsibility and I feel that soon I
will do nothing but get in the way. JJ has to return to his Grand mother's
house and he wants me to come with him. I will go...”

“I am so sorry ChiChiUe.
I... I... Leon
gets really defensive and irritable when he is denied...” D gulped and
continued. “Sex... And I still can not accommodate him so... uh... we... I
never meant for you to... see... uh... us.” D had never felt so flustered in
his life.

“Oh... never be ashamed of
your love.” Lord D said with a grin. “How can I blame you for something I have
often done myself?” Lord D refused to blush and held in a smile. “I know that I
still refer to you as a child, but the truth is, you are an adult.” Lord D gave
his son a rare beautiful smile that showed some of his teeth. “My place is by
JJ's side. Would you wish to be separated from your detective?” D felt his
heart constrict in his chest. “I thought not.” Lord D said after one look at
his son's stricken face. “In my condition, I wish to spend as much time with
him as possible. My body is going through some interesting changes, and I would
hate for him to miss a moment of it. And it is nice to have someone to hold my
hair back when I am ill.” Lord D hid a grin and twinkling eyes. “It is not like
I will be very far away, i will be here to visit you
and you are certainly more than welcome to come and visit me. Nana would be
delighted to see you and Aoi.”

“It seems strange; I got
so used to you in such a short amount of time. I guess it is childish of me.
This desire to have you around all the time, and the uncertainty of parenthood
I guess... I mean, when are you leaving?”

“Next week, but you are
all invited over for the American holiday... Thanksgiving?” Lord D said
questioningly. D walked with his father to the Honlon's vast room where Chris
lay sleeping with T-Chan and Aoi lay in her bassinet under the Honlon's careful
gaze. D scooped the small child into his arms.

“It is hard to believe
that she has been here for five weeks already.” D said and pressed a kiss to
her small forehead.

“She is beautiful,” Lord D
said and patted his own mounding tummy. “I am afraid.” Lord D admitted
sheepishly. “How did you deal with it?”

“Oh, I actually took
strength from Leon's
belief in me. I feared that I would not be a good father, I...” D blushed and
looked away from Lord D.

“All you knew of me was
that I abandoned you to my father.” Lord D looked sad and peered at his grand
daughter. “I want to apologize to you for that.. I
...”

“It is quite all right,
you do not need to apologize again.” D said with a gentle smile. He handed Aoi
to Lord D and walked to the door. “Leon is home and I think JJ is with
him.” Lord D followed his son to the parlor of the shop where Leon and JJ were
just coming in and pulling off their jackets. Leon removed his guns before he
took D into his arms.

“One more week gorgeous,” Leon said and
kissed D's cheek softly.

“Yes, Master Xi can not
wait to get started on my training again. He says he has some new techniques
that he wants to teach me.” D said with a grin purposefully misinterpreting
what Leon
was hinting at. Leon
turned red and glanced at Lord D who smiled and looked at his son before he
went over and allowed JJ to embrace him and touch his stomach.

“Hey adorable,” JJ said
against Lord D's smooth neck. “I am so glad that you decided to come with me.”

“I have given myself to
you.” Lord D said with a sweet smile that melted JJ's heart on contact. “I am
yours my love.” JJ felt humbled by the sincere trust that Lord D displayed as
he stood staring at him. D hid a giggle behind his hand as he took Aoi away
from his father and urged Leon
to leave them alone in the room. JJ took Lord D's slim hands in his own and sat
with him on the lush couch. “I do not fear you.” Lord D said with a smile that
melted JJ from the inside out. As he held Lord D he remembered how cold and
distant he was when they had met, the trembling way he had surrendered and the
frightened realization that he was carrying.

“You are my dream.” JJ
whispered and kissed the porcelain ear with small diamond studs in them. What
is this? JJ wondered and held tight to Lord D. This feeling of absolute
happiness and... JJ realized that he could smell a faint sweet aroma. He
nuzzled Lord D and licked his neck.

“Actually JJ...” Lord D
said quickly and turned to face JJ. “I have been feeling rather...
Uncomfortable lately and I do not think I can... We can't... I mean.” Lord D
blushed and smiled shyly at JJ. It was absolutely adorable. JJ could not help
but kiss his soft lips.

“Uncomfortable?” JJ
frowned and studied Lord D fearing the worse.

“It is just cramps; my
father said that I should rest as much as possible.” Lord D looked guilty
before he continued. “My body is stronger than my sons and I am in less danger,
but there is still danger to me to bear this child. I am yet younger than my
father when he bore me. It is not uncommon for a Kami to have trouble carrying
a child. I am amazed that D made it full term. Female Kami find it
difficult...” Lord D looked away from JJ ashamed to admit that he was afraid.

“Hey...” JJ took the
slender hand and placed a kiss on it. “It will be ok. Try not to get stressed
out. You know, human women, if they get stressed out during pregnancies, they
can lose their child, or have complications. I am scared too, scared of losing
you. I love you so much.” JJ pulled Lord D into his arms and kissed him softly.
“You'll be ok.” JJ promised, though he could not shake the feeling that he was
lying.

Break

“You're quiet,” Leon said as he
crawled into bed and pulled D into his arms. “How is Jewel?” Leon felt bad
for leaving D all day alone with the children and animals. It could not be
helped, he had to work.

“Sleeping. Peacefully.” D
answered and rolled over away from Leon. D lay absolutely still and
refused to turn towards Leon.

“You would not believe
what I came across today.” Leon
said with a quiet laugh, he pulled D into his arms and kissed the small ear. D
shivered and tried to move away from Leon who held him tightly. “We got a call
today from a guy, who wanted us to come to his house and arrest a burglar. We
get there and the guy holds up his finger to shush us. We get inside and the
idiot perp was asleep on the couch. And Baby, get this, the guy was naked.” Leon broke off
into laughter shaking the bed. D smiled tightly and tried to relax. Leon settled
down and cuddled D close to him. “Are you too tired to uh...”
Leon
smirked next to D's ear. D shook his head and sat up in the bed. He leaned over
Leon's
lap and gently extricated him from his pajama pants. Leon relaxed against the pillows
and sighed out his pleasure.

As D finished he sat up
and wiped his mouth turning immediately away from Leon. “Baby, what is wrong with
you?” Leon asked and turned
D to face him and D winced when his crotch brushed against Leon. Leon reached
his hand down and gently stroked the raging erection. “Why didn't you say
something?” Leon
asked and curled his fingers around and stroked upwards. D moaned and arched
into Leon's
touch. Leon
shifted the robe aside exposing D to his ministrations. “I am so sorry, I did
not know... I... I can't penetrate you, but maybe...” D curled up into Leon as he
opened his mouth over him and swallowed him whole.

“Ah... Leon...” D
gasped feeling himself melting inside. Leon
worked his mouth and hands gently over D. D gasped and arched his body up
closer to Leon’s
facile tongue and sucking throat. As D exploded Leon swallowed the sweet load with
a smile.

“Better than I remember.” Leon said and
licked his lips. D lay boneless against the bed panting as Leon pulled him
into his arms. “Why didn't you say something?” Leon said against D's throat.

D swallowed and sighed leaning heavily against Leon. “You had a lot to deal with.”

“I don't care if I am atlas, you got a problem you tell me.” Leon said gruffly holding tight to D. Jewel
gurgled in her sleep and D held up a hand to shush Leon. They both listened as their
daughter quieted. Still smiling, they fell asleep holding onto each other.

Break

(Thanksgiving Day)

Lord D stood demurely
behind JJ as Nana opened the door to admit their relatives. She hugged and
kissed each one in turn and they smiled slyly at JJ but refused to embrace him.
JJ returned the stiff greetings and took a deep breath. Three dark haired young
men entered the house and grinned at JJ. “I thought you liked boys, pansy... I
mean Jemi.” They leered at Lord D and walked further into the house.. Lord D tensed when he felt their cold stares boring into
him. “Exotic too, hot Asian little flower.” One of the young men reached
forward trying to touch Lord D's hair.

“Jeremy,” JJ said low and
dangerously. “Do not touch him.”

“Him... you need glasses?”
Jeremy asked as he glanced at Lord D

“One could be considered
foolish if one followed the eyes blindly.” Lord D said calmly with the
trademark, cold “D” smile. Jeremy backed away at the plainly male voice.

“Precious, these are my
cousins, Jeremy, William and Nathaniel. I look forward to seeing them every
year.” JJ sighed heavily and turned to greet the next guests. He displayed the
first smile Lord D had seen all evening.

“Detectives,” Nana said
with a sweet smile. “I am so glad you accepted our invitation to dinner this
evening. You are well?”

“Yes Nana, thank you for
inviting us.” Leon
said as he stepped into the house. Chris ran in and held Nana tightly. Ryo,
Bikky and Dee followed them. A few moments
later, Jill entered with Lady Aurora. Q-Chan abandoned D and flew to her side.

“Mother,” Lord D breathed
and left JJ's side to embrace the pale beauty. Lady Aurora embraced her son
tightly and stroked his long tresses that were left unbound.

“You are well?” Lady
Aurora asked smiling, Lord D grinned, leave it to his mother to appear for
dinner dressed as a noble Arcadian and having her teeth barely concealed.

“I am as well as can be
expected,” Lord D said hoping his mother would not notice the lack of color to
his complexion.

“You are pale,” she
whispered close to his ear.

“You noticed...” Lord D
sighed and gazed at his mother. “You are not,” he said with a smile.

“Did you want me to come
here hungry?” Aurora
asked with a sly grin and licked her fangs.

Lord D sighed and inclined
his head to JJ's obnoxious cousins before he said, “yes.”

Lady Aurora smiled
brightly and straitened her many skirts and walked over with a hand
outstretched as if she expected them to kiss it. “Gentlemen, I am so glad to
see you. My son tells me that you are extremely charming.” Lady Aurora grinned
over her shoulder at Lord D who blushed and looked away from his mother.

“I thought he looked kind
of young.” William said narrowing his deep blue eyes at JJ. “Now you are on to
pedophilia, how fun is that?”

“I assure you gentlemen, I
am of age,” Lord D said before he tied his sleeves securely and headed off into
the kitchen. “I must get back to help Nana prepare dinner.”

“You are helping to cook
dinner?” Jeremy said with a scowl, “don't know if I want to eat anything you
cooked, don't know where your hands have been.” Lord D
inclined his head and smiled graciously he clasped his hands and bowed before
silently walking into the kitchen. Jeremy scowled after Lord D before he
vanished from view.

“Where is that Darling
little baby?” Nana said as she rounded on D who carefully handed his daughter
over to the old lady. “Oh she is beautiful, look at those eyes.” Nana felt her
heart melt as she stared at the clear blue crystal seemingly fathomless eyes.
“She is going to be a heart breaker, I can tell you that already.” Nana laughed
as she handed Jewel back to D.

“Your Daughter?” Jeremy
said to Lady Aurora she laughed and shook her head.

“Dearest.” She exclaimed
and took him into her arms.

“My Lady,” D said loudly
projected his voice so that it could be heard by JJ's cousins..
They frowned when they heard his voice and he grinned before he went to sit on
the couch. Ryo moved over and peeked at Jewel.

Lord D lifted the heavy
Pan of pasta from the oven and checked the cheese sauce with a spoon. He smiled
when he heard someone enter the kitchen. His smile faded and he turned back to
his task. “You know,” Jeremy said and walked forward, his two brothers beside
him. “We grew up with Jemi, always knew he was queer.” Jeremy smirked and
continued. “Once when he was 12, we held him down and made him where my
sister's dress outside. He didn't even cry, he smiled and strutted.

“After that you
apologized?” Lord D said with a raised brow he turned around and smiled again
at Jeremy causing him to pause before his smirk was firmly in place.

“You know something,”
Jeremy said as he advanced on Lord D. Lord D backed up against the stove
wincing from the heat. “You got real pretty lips... I bet you give good head.”
The sound of the slap could be heard in the living room causing the low hum of
conversation to cease. JJ felt the stinging of his wedding band and rushed to
the kitchen. “Why you...” Jeremy grasped Lord D's arms in a brutal grip and
threw him aside. JJ caught Lord D with one hand and drew his gun with the
other.

“Get away from him.” JJ
ground out and clicked his safety off.

“Harsh man, we're family.
Your little bitch hit me.” Jeremy spat the words at JJ.

“You probably deserved
it,” JJ said with a frown. “Precious, after they shoved me into the dress and
saw it didn't bother me... they beat me.” JJ said softly. “You know why I never
told you.” JJ would not look at Lord D but he touched his hand which was red
and stinging painfully. “Are you ok?” JJ whispered when Lord D began to pant
heavily. “Oh precious, your... Hippocratic oath... you didn't... I mean?”

“No... I attacked him
physically, I did not reach into his body and stop his heart,” Lord D whispered
trying to smile but feeling a savage cramp in his side. He cried out and
clutched JJ to him and held his side.

“Precious...” JJ called
out but Lord D had already lost consciousness. “Lady Aurora,” JJ called out but
felt a reassuring hand on his shoulder. He looked up at Sofu D.

“It's alright, I can help
him. We need to cool him down and relax him.” Sofu said taking his son into his
arms. JJ was amazed that he was not staggering under the weight of Lord's
advanced pregnancy. “Hurry to the bedroom,” Sofu ground out to JJ. “He has lost
full consciousness, I am the one maintain this figure for him and I can't do it
for long.” JJ nodded and rushed off. Nana stood beside their bed wringing her
hands in distress.

“Oh dear… oh my... Oh
dear,” She said over and over again. JJ ushered her from the room and paused
when he saw D pacing out side the door. JJ stepped aside and D rushed to his
father's side.

“First he was pale, now he
is flushed, is that bad?” D asked his grandfather. He looked at his father and
clutched his hand.

Sofu smoothed his hand
over Lord D's brow, “I take this power of my child's to use as I see fit.” Sofu
said and pressed his hands along Lord D's abdomen. Lord D opened his eyes and
gasped. D took one look at his father's improved condition before he turned and
left the room. He found Jeremy and his brother's on the porch smoking. Leon caught him
in mid-air and held him firm.

“Calm down...” Leon hissed.
“You are still in no condition...”

“What about father's
condition?” D asked viciously. Jeremy turned and backed away from D in fear of
the anger he could sense around the skills that D had displayed.

“Keep him off me man,”
Jeremy said with false bravado as Leon was able to hold D back. “I won't
be responsible for what I do to him.”

“If I let him go, I won't
be responsible for what he does to you.” Leon said, “and
I will make sure that any officer's who come here know that he is wearing my
ring.” Leon
said holding up his own badge and managing to keep D aloft with one hand.

“What the hell is the
world coming to? Are all the cops’ fags?” William frowned and stepped in front
of his brother.

“Get out.” JJ said as he
walked over to his cousin. “I refuse to sit down to dinner with an idiot who
would come into a man's own home and harass him.”

“You can't put me out,
this is Nana's house.” Jeremy snarled and walked forward. Leon released D
who had retained his composure and blushed slightly at his outburst.

“I want you to leave as
well.” Nana said as she stepped out onto the porch. “This is the good Doctor's
home. He is responsible for my considerable health improvement. He has brought
happiness to JJ and I do not appreciate you all showing up and causing him
grief. If his condition worsens...” Jeremy wondered why she glanced at JJ with
a sad sigh. “I will have no problems writing you all out of my will.” Nana said
and bustled back inside.

“Whatever,” Jeremy said
and he and his brother's stalked back to their hotel for the night.
“Thanksgiving with family… What a joke. Apparently the only important family
around here is a queer and his whore.”

“When Nana got sick that
first time, who was there?” JJ said vehemently. “Who gave up their life in New York to take care of
her? Who has always been by her side since Grampy died? You only showed up
after you knew about the will. How dare you drag my sexuality into this? How
dare you hurt him...?” JJ balled his fist and took a step forward. Dee placed his hand on JJ holding him back.

“He is not worth losing
your badge over. You put in the time; you put your ass on the line every night
keeping scum like him safe. Who cares who welcomes you home?” Dee
looked sadly at Jeremy who huffed and stomped away. Ryo shook his head and
watched them go.

Lord D greeted JJ when he
re-entered the house with a smile. “I am fine love; my father took care of it.”
Lord D took JJ's hand and pressed it against his tummy. JJ's aunt walked over
and inquired after his health.

“Sorry about my son, ever
since JJ came out, he has been on edge,” The older woman said with a gentle
smile. She stroked Lord D's glorious hair. “Are you alright dear?” She asked
kindly. Lord D nodded sagely and sat at a chair that JJ held out for him. As
the family joined hands around the table JJ said a heartfelt prayer that Lord
D's health and the health of their child, would improve.

Chapter 20:

 The Most Wonderful Christmas (Part 1)

JJ frowned into his glass
and heard the ice clink. What was this, his third drink? He wondered before he
settled against the bar. He had left Lord D sleeping in their bed unable to
sleep himself. Each year it was the same. Jeremy, Nathaniel and William would
give him a hard time and he would feel as if he were sliced to ribbons. It
never failed. Did they not remember growing up? The fun times they had shared
and ... JJ fought back a sniffle reminding himself
that he was in public. They had been inseparable, Aunt Helen had often claimed
that she had four sons instead of three, and his mom always claimed four
instead of one.

“Hey,” JJ looked up and
glowered at his cousin.

“What do you want? And
where are your brothers?” JJ asked looking around the bar. He paused when he
did not see his other cousins.

“You're pissed?” Jeremy
said quietly and hinted to the bartender that he would have whatever JJ was
having. He received his drink and gasped as the brandy hit his throat. “Never
figured you for a heavy drinker, you must be pissed.”

“Why the hell wouldn't I
be?” JJ asked his freshly refilled glass. “You know something?” JJ asked
finally looking over at his cousin. “Tonight I would have shot you. I would
have shot you dead. I would have purposefully forgotten about all our years
together, just like you did and I would have shot you.”

“What do you mean, just
like I did?” Jeremy asked.

“How can you ask me that?
We grew up closer than some brothers and then I come out and you treat like
yesterday's garbage. I expected that from everyone else, hell I expected it
from Nate and Bill, but I would never have expected it from you.” JJ said
blinking hard to force the tears back from his eyes. He would not cry…He would
not.

“Why did your lover pass
out?” Jeremy asked remembering the look of pain that had crossed Lord D's face
before he had passed out.

“You really want to know,
or are you just rubbing it in?” JJ said bitterly.

“You know, I uh... We
spent dinner tonight with the hotel owner and their family.” Jeremy paused and
JJ looked at him waiting for him to make his point. “Nate, Bill and I... we uh,
got back just as Miz Carlson was setting the table. When we sat down we noticed
that there were three people there. Three was A man
who found his wife sleeping with his best friend and decided not to have a sham
family gathering. And a young girl who ran away from an abusive father and a
young pregnant girl who got put out.” Jeremy paused to sip his drink. “The
Carlson's, they said that every year they have stragglers, and I realized...
These people were away from their families because they had no choice. I had a
choice, and I missed spending the holiday with my family because... because...”
Jeremy paused and drained his glass signaling for it be
refilled. “Because I'm gay.”

“You mean because I'm...”
JJ paused and looked at his cousin. He sighed and sat down his glass.

“That's right, I wrestled
everyday with knowing that something was wrong with me but you... you just. It
didn't bother you. I loved you for it at the same time... I hated you.” Jeremy
took a long gulp. “You always seemed so happy about everything... even when we
beat the shit out of you... you ... you just, healed up and kept smiling.
Tonight when we showed up and I saw that gorgeous piece of work
.. God... He is something.” Jeremy looked at JJ and tried not to go
slack jawed in complete amazement. “Is he like sick or something?”

JJ paused and thought long
and hard. He could say yes, but then he would be lying. But he could not say
that Lord D was pregnant, that went with out saying. “He's uh... He has a
delicate constitution right now.” JJ said vaguely. He shook his head at the
bartender who stood ready to refill his glass. “How long have you known?”

“You tell me,” Jeremy said
and sipped his drink again.

“That long?” JJ said with
raised brows as he hid a chuckle. “Damn, have you ever...” JJ paused not sure
how to go on.

“With girls... hell yeah,
it was easy. I just had to tell myself that it was normal, I desired to be
normal and well you can figure out the rest.” Jeremy looked down at his lap.
“Look, I have to get back, I convinced the guys that we should stay up here for
a few days, and maybe apologize to you as best as we could.”

“Do they know?” JJ asked
and stood to his feet. Jeremy was amazed that his cousin seemed steady.

“I told them tonight, it’s
why I left the room. I can't even look at them.” Jeremy sighed and stood. He
frowned when the room took a sick dive.

“Come on, we can share a
cab.” JJ said and caught Jeremy around the waist. JJ made it home and tossed
his jacket and shoes aside prepared to accept Lord D's glare in the morning for
his mess. He slid into bed with his pants and t-shirt on and pulled Lord D
close to him. JJ paused when Lord D woke up and shoved him away. “Precious...?”

“Get away from me!” Lord D
gasped and dove from the bed running bare foot to the bathroom. JJ fell in
behind him and held his hair back as he retched. “You...” Lord D gasped and
gagged in between hurls. “Smell...” Lord D heaved and tossed some more his eyes
watering and his stomach cramping savagely. “Please...” Lord D heaved again and
JJ backed away afraid to leave him alone.

“You reek of alcohol; you
should have showered before getting into bed with him.” JJ looked up at Lady
Aurora. “You get into the shower I'll take care of him.” She commanded. JJ was
glad that she had masqueraded as Q-Chan and stayed the night perched on the
windowsill in the bed room. He nodded and turned on the hot water and undressed
not at all worried that she would look back at him. As JJ showered he heard
Lord D subside in his heaving and his mother lead him from the room.

“Lord D was tucked it with
Q-Chan sitting on his tummy walking back and forth in small circles when JJ
approached the bed. “Darling I am so sorry, I was not thinking.”

“I am alright now
Jemi-Chan,” Lord D assured him and reached out a delicate hand. “You seem upset;
would you like to talk to me about it?”

“Are you tired? Because it
could wait till morning.” JJ said and crawled into bed not caring that his hair
was still damp

“My stomach is unsettled;
perhaps talking will lull him to sleep.” Lord D said with a smile.

“I talked to Jeremy
tonight,” JJ began with a wry smile.

“Perhaps not,” Lord D said
with a wide eyed stare.

“He thinks you are hot.”
JJ said with a smirk.

“Doubtless if I were a
woman he...”Lord D's words halted as JJ shook his head laughing.

“What?” Lord asked with a
frown, JJ grinned and sat up for hours talking to Lord D and fell asleep
holding him close. Lady Aurora rested her head on her son’s stomach and
listened to the faint sound of the heartbeat. She startled and sat up looking
into the peaceful look of slumber on Lord D's face and she scowled folding her
arms in fury. Her dear husband had a lot of explaining to do.

Break

Leon felt like he was going to kill
some one... Soon. “Chief, tell my you are just yanking my chain!” Leon bellowed
into his cell phone. “Oh come on... This is bull...” Leon hand to restrain himself from
swearing as Count D looked up from where he held their daughter who was
sleeping peacefully. “Listen Chief, any day but today. Please...”

“Orcot, get your ass here
pronto, or hand in your badge, got that!” Leon winced and sat his phone down.
He looked regretfully at D before he stormed out of the pet shop. T- Chan stood
next to Ten-Chan and snickered. Leon
had the serious urge to kick the little goat bastard. Count D avoided looking
at Leon
as he stalked outside and up the steps two at a time. Count D almost felt bad
for whatever criminal crossed Leon's
path first.

The door had just slammed
shut when it was opened again. D looked up with a smile on his face knowing
instinctively that it was not Leon.
The door had opened too peacefully. He sat Aoi down and grinned. “Lord Suzaku,
what a wonderful surprise.”

“Hello Count D the
youngest,” Lord Suzaku said and tossed his ravishing blond locks aside before
he sat. “Tea?” He asked and indicated the steaming pot on the table. D smiled
graciously peeked at Aoi before he sat and served his old teacher. “You should
not be surprised; your father told me when you would be able to enter training
again.”

“Oh,” D said and dropped
six sugar cubes into his own cup. D hid a frown as Lord Suzaku took it with
only a hint of cream.

“Yes child, I an anxious
to begin. I have some new techniques that I want you to try. You have heard of
Chi Gong am I correct?”

“Well I have heard of it,”
D said and looked into the master Phoenix's
deep amber eyes. “I just never thought... I mean, it is an ancient art, older
even than my father.”

“Yes it is,” Suzaku said
with a grin. “What your father uses is a form of Chi-Gong.” Suzaku smiled when
Count D looked bewildered. “He centers his mind and concentrates, then uses his
spiritual energy to reach inside his patients body to help them recover. You
should have no problem.”

“If you really think so,”
Count D said absently wondering when Leon would get home.

Break

Leon stormed into the PD with his hell
wormed over expression on his face. Jill took one look at him and backed away.
He heard Diana squeal before he rounded the corner to see her in the lap of a
tall bespectacled man. Leon
frowned, he looked oddly familiar. “Detective Orcot, I am sure you remember Commissioner
Rose from New York.”
Diana said and took Leon's
hand and pulled him over to her companion. Leon
noted Dee scowling at the man while keeping a
protective hand on Ryo's waist. JJ sat sipping his coffee looking exhausted.

“Ordinarily I would not be
here, but this case happens to have slide into your jurisdiction and it seems
we will be working together on this case?” Rose said to Dee.
“I doubt I will have time for much socializing... I doubt any of us will have
time for anything, at least until this is solved.”

“What exactly are we
working on?” Leon
asked and sat at his desk beside Jill. Commissioner Rose pulled out several Manila envelopes and handed each detective one in turn.

“There is a new strain of
Ecstasy out, it has been cut with a rare drug from Turkey it is extremely potent.”
Rose said with a sigh and lit a cigarette. Leon stared enviously at the
Commissioner before he thumbed through the file. “If the victim is seen to when
the drug takes effect it will last all night until the
person is spent and exhausted. IF not, the drug can make them miserable. The
victim will be feverish, delirious and in physical pain. Their body's need will
drive them practically insane. With out relief, the effects can last up to
eight days. This drug has been largely distributed on a small scale in back
ally rave clubs as a date rape drug. It is only recently that it fell into the
hands of the Mafia.”

“The Mafia?” Dee asked finally perking up to pay close attention to
what the Commissioner was saying.

“Yes, they have a slave
trading ring and they use it to make their kid napped boys and girls
submissive. Actually,” Rose said with a frown. “Submissive is not the correct
word, the captives are practically begging for it.” Rose paused to scowl before
he continued. “This drug ladies and gentlemen is now in your jurisdiction and I
want to catch it before it moves on. Today it's this young girl,” Rose showed
them a picture of a smiling teen that had gone missing. “She was found a few
days ago in a back alley begging all passing men to take her. Apparently the
men the mob boss sold her too could not satisfy her so he kicked her out, after
letting his boys have her. It still wasn't enough. More drugs at the hospital
would have killed her. She suffered for three day until her body cooled. After
word she was horrified at what she had done and the nurse found her strangled
on her bed sheets hanging from the ceiling. Today it's this girl, who will it
be tomorrow?”

Ryo and Dee stared in
horror at the blond curls of the young girl and then back at Rose. “We're in,”
Ryo said simply.

Leon thought of Jewel. In a couple of
years she would be as stunning as her Papa... “I'm in.” Rose looked around at
each detective in the office and nodded his pleasure at their acceptance. “

“Take these files home and
get familiar with the case we get started first thing in the morning.” Rose
said and stood to leave the office. Leon clutched his file and headed
for the door. He saw Ryo on the phone with Carol's aunt telling her to keep her
close to home until he gave the all clear. Leon
went to inform Dee that he should contact
Catherine's family and any other young woman he knew. Or... Leon thought
with a frown... any young men.

Chapter 21:

The Most Wonderful Christmas
(Part 2)

Leon tip-toed into the pet shop hoping
not to awaken D. He looked so adorable sleeping on the couch with Jewel on his
chest. Jewel snuggled her little head against D's chest and Leon's
lascivious thoughts vanished. He reached out to stroke her head and D opened
his jewel bright eyes and smiled. “You are back.” D sat up careful to cradle
Aoi close to his chest. “She has been sleeping through the night more often.” D
said and licked his lips as he looked at Leon.

“Will she sleep through
tonight?” Leon
asked not looking away from D's freshly moistened lips.

“We can hope,” D said and
stood graceful as a swan to his feet not jostling his daughter at all. Leon grinned;
he had always liked watching D move. Even before it was safe to do so it had
been a private pleasure. Leon
followed D to their bed room and crossed over into the nursery. He did not miss
Pon-Chan, T-Chan and Ten-Chan lounging about in the
room prepared to take care of the baby if she awakened in need of a bottle or
cuddling. “Chris?”

“With Ryo and Dee, Lord
Suzaku offered to take him over after we were done today.” D answered and
walked back to their bed room. He shut the door and looked at Leon
expectantly waiting for him to jump him... hoping he would.

Leon smiled slowly thinking of
something Dee had said to him before he left
the office. Ryo had glowered, but Leon smirked and purposefully
stayed away from the shop for several hours longer than necessary. It was the
time he needed to cool his head. He would love to see what D thought of Dee's newest advice. “Drove Ryo crazy, but damn it
was worth it in the long run.” Leon smiled remembering those
words. Ryo had blushed scarlet before stalking away from Leon's grin.
“Come here,” Leon
said softly and walked over to the bed side table. D reached up to undo the
buttons at the top of his Cheongsam but Leon caught his hand and picked up
the remote to his stereo. It had taken a week of shouting matches, but D had
finally agreed to allow it into their room.

Leon pulled D to him and began to sway
to the softly playing Asian pipes and strings. “Dance with me.”

“Ah...”D gasped before he
tucked his bottom lip between his teeth and gingerly placed his arms around Leon's
shoulders. Leon
placed his hands around D's slim hips and pulled him in close enjoying the
feeling of D pressed tightly against him. “Mmmm... Leon.” D breathed and nuzzled Leon's neck. He
shifted his body hoping to drive Leon into taking him sooner rather
than later. Leon grinned he knew this trick well and spun D away from him
before pulling him back into a dip. “Leon!” D gasped and wrapped his
arms securely around laughing as Leon wiggled his brows
suggestively.

Three songs played and
still Leon
held tight to D dancing him around the room until he
laughing and dizzy. D fell onto the bed and smiled sure that now... Leon would take
him. “I got you something.” Leon
said and pulled a box from underneath the bed. D was expecting chocolates, but
frowned in wonderment at the gift bag that Leon sat in his lap.

What...?” D looked up at Leon as he dug
into the bag past the tissue paper and his hand felt something soft. He pulled
out a strip of cloth that resembled a feather boa, but was short by several
inches. “I don't understand.” D gazed at Leon puzzled. What was he up to? D
wondered as Leon
reached out and began to undo the buttons keeping D clothed. D smiled in relief,
it was about time, he was minutes away from stripping Leon
and forcing back on the bed and climbing on top.

Leon took his time peeling the robe
from D's pale shoulders exposing him to warmth in the room. As his nipples
became visible Leon blew
softly across them and D moaned reaching up to pull Leon's mouth to the aching
protrusions. Leon
laughed and D gasped when he shook his head free of the hold and moved on to
undo the pants at D's waist. D eagerly lifted his backside so that Leon could
remove the now annoying garment. Leon paused and removed D's shoes
pausing to tickle his small feet. D giggled and took his foot away from Leon's reach.
“I feel like it's my birthday,” Leon
said and raised his face and captured D's lips with his own. D sighed and melted
against Leon.
D placed his hands on Leon's
shoulders and Leon's
shirt vanished. Leon
caught D's hands before he could get to his pants.

“Not yet baby,” Leon whispered
and pressed kisses along D's ear, to his neck and then his collar bone.

“I... Leon...” D
panted when Leon
would go no further.

“Close your eyes.” Leon said and
kissed the feathery lids into submission. D lay still waiting for Leon to touch
him. All he felt was the soft feather cloth being dragged across his lips then
over his chest. Leon
lingered at D's nipples causing him to arch up panting in need. Leon decided to
have pity and leaned down taking a bright red succulent morsel into his mouth
and sucking lightly. He trailed his tongue over one before moving the feather
cloth to the other.

“Leon... Shiite ... Ummmm” D
moaned as Leon
trailed lazy circles around his naval before dipping in. “Ah... Leon-Kun.” D
gasped up he managed to get his hand on Leon's pants and they vanished with
a desperate thought. Leon
grinned vowing to make this last. He pressed a kiss to D's thighs and then
dragged the cloth between them. “Oh... Leon, please...” D begged biting is
lip almost painfully as his need grew to a fever pitch.

Leon trailed the feather cloth across
lightly and D bucked his hips in desperation. Leon allowed just the tip of his
tongue to follow the path of the cloth and D cried out closing his eyes against
the stars that suddenly seemed to blind him. Leon felt a modicum of pity for D
and took him fully into his mouth. D lost any semblance of control and Leon swallowed
the sticky sweetness he had so come to love.

D lay shattered on the bed
in a molten pool of need his orgasm had not satisfied. The feather cloth and
light caresses had him boiling over with desire and Leon refused to satisfy him. Tears
stung his eyes as he looked at Leon who crawled deliciously over his body
allowing his entire body to caress D in all the right places. D arched up
pressing himself against Leon
hoping his obvious need to push Leon
to act quicker. D spread his legs and nearly burst into needful tears when Leon slid to the side, but he sighed in relief
when Leon
lifted both of his legs up. D waited. Leon waited until D looked up at
him expectantly. Leon
grinned and slapped his hand down hard on D's bottom, again and again. “That's
for teasing me for practically six weeks.” Leon said and then caressed the
stinging pink bottom. D gasped and blushed brightly that the contact had felt a
little more than pleasant.

“I ... ummmm ... I am ...
I ... do ... Apologize, now please Leon... Please take me.” D begged
prettily.

“What exactly do you want
me to do?” Leon
asked and lowered D's legs. D reached behind him and handed Leon the tube
of KY Jelly. Leon
smirked it was new, D must have bought it special for
tonight. “What am I supposed to do with this?” Leon asked and stared wide eyed at
him.

“Use it...” D said with a
needy pout. “Please.”

“Use it how... you are
going to tell me blow by blow what to do. The more colorful the language, the
quicker I might do it... and I do mean might.” Leon said with a lick at D's ear.

“You... You want me to...”

“Talk to me.” Leon said and
fingered the lid of the lubricant without undoing it. “You have such a sexy
voice.”

“Unscrew the top.” D
capitulated when Leon
blew across his tight nipple and licked it lightly. “Put ah... some... put some
on your fingers.”

“How much?” Leon asked and
licked D's neck then moved and kissed him deeply.

“Enough... a lot...
please.” Leon
grinned and decided to take pity on D and applied a large amount to his hand.
“Spread it on me.”

“Where... here?” Leon said and
curled his slippery fingers around D's stiff appendage and stroked him.

“Oh yeah... that... feels
so ... ummmm ... good.” D closed his eyes in bliss. And bit his lip again. “Leon more... “

“More of this?” Leon asked and
spread more lubricant on his hand.

“Yes... use your fingers
to put it inside of me.” D urged and spread his legs giving Leon ample
room.

“Inside where?” Leon asked and
trailed the tip of his finger over the opened that practically swallowed the
index so great was D's need. “Tell me.”

“Oh please Leon...” D
begged and half sobbed/panted. Leon
took momentary pity on D and kissed him deeply as he sank his finger deep
inside. D arched and sighed in pleasure using his tongue to engage Leon's in a
sensual duel. “More...” D tore his mouth away from Leon. “Two... two fingers... move
them.” D informed Leon and
raised his hips riding Leon's
fingers with his eyes closed in pleasure. “Spread ... ah... your fingers...
ummmm ... to get me ... Oh! Ready.”

“Like this?' Leon asked and
spread his fingers and then scissored them inside of D causing him to cry out
and shift his hips.

“I'm ready... Please, Leon... now.” D
panted and pulled until Leon
lay on top of him. D wrapped his legs around Leon's waist.

“Now what?” Leon asked
using all of his strength of will to keep himself from burying to the hilt in
D's slick tightness.

“Oh... Leon please... do not do this to
me.” D said and clenched his fingers against Leon's shoulders. He arched up
against Leon.

“I went too easy on you
before,” Leon
said and kissed D's neck. He whispered the next words close to D's ear his hot
breath making D squirm and shiver in delight. “I want to hear you say it.”

“Say what... tell me...
and I will say it.” D promised desperate for Leon to be deep inside of him.

“Fuck me.” Leon informed
him.

D gasped and his eyes grew
to three times their normal size as he stared at Leon. Leon pressed his hips against D who
panted and focused his shock having worn off. So that was Leon's game D thought and panted hoping to drive
Leon
to madness and force him to take him. D shifted his hips brushing against Leon's
straining member.

“Not gonna work baby.” Leon said with
a soft chuckle. “You want it you say it.”

D dropped back against the
bed in defeat and Leon
picked up where he had left off pushing their hips together. D panted and
closed his eyes. “... ckme ...” D
whispered very fast in Leon's
ear.

“Whazzat ...?” Leon said and
lightly licked D's lips before allowing his tongue to slide in and taste the
sweetness that had teased him for so long.

“Leon... oh...” D's body wept with need
and he wrapped his arms tightly against Leon in total surrender. “Fuck me!”

“That's what I'm talking
about.” Leon
said and slid cleanly inside swallowing D's howl of pleasure. Leon's strangle
hold on his control snapped and he began to move steadily into D before pulling
nearly completely out and driving in to the hilt again. “That's right... feels
good baby,” Leon
panted and drove home again bearing D tightly to the bed.

“Oh yes... so good... Leon... Shiite
... take me... fuck me... I'm yours... all yours... only yours…” D panted and
clutched Leon to him raising
his hips in time to Leon's
driving movements. Leon
closed his eyes and vowed that they both enjoy this long awaited night.

Break

JJ walked into the
Precinct and tried not to smile. He had stopped noticing it all these years,
but he guessed he and Jeremy did look an awful lot alike. “Wow JJ,” an officer
said with a good natured smile. “I didn't know you had a brother.” JJ simply laughed
and led Jeremy to the office where Dee, Ryo, Jill, Diana and Berkeley waited/ Leon was
conspicuously absent.

“Orcot called and said he
might be a bit late,” Dee said with a smirk
which earned him a glower from Ryo. “Oh come on... you can't still be mad. Not
after...” Dee trailed off and Ryo blushed and
looked away remembering the fun they had had last night.

“Don't we have a case to
get to?” Leon
said as he breezed into the office with a broad smile on his face. He sat down
and ignored the friendly punch from Dee. He
looked at Jeremy and frowned. Jeremy had kept his head down as he realized that
he was surrounded by the men he had offended less than a week ago.

“Detectives I would like
you to remember my cousin with kind thoughts and understanding.” JJ said with
meaning and looked at Ryo. Ryo caught the hint even before Jill and stretched
out his hand.

“Hello, Jeremy right?” Ryo
asked and shook the young man's hand. Jeremy looked up gratefully and shook
Ryo's hand. “I'm Randy... Randy MacLean, but all my friends call me Ryo.”

“Ryo?” Jeremy asked as he
moved on to shake Dee's hand.

“He's part Japanese. My
name's Dee Laytner.” Dee said and smirked
before he winked at Ryo. Ryo looked away shaking his head. As Jill introduced
herself Dee raised questing brows at JJ who
shrugged and hinted that he would explain later.

And this,” JJ said and
pulled his cousin over to Berkeley.
“Is Commissioner Berkeley Rose of New York's finest.” Jeremy looked up into Berkeley's piercing brown
eyes and felt trapped in their depths. His palms went clammy and he squeezed
them shut before he shook the other's man's hand feeling swallowed by his
assessing stare. Ah guys, my cousin is a columnist for the New York Times and
he would like to follow us around on a case and do an article for the
magazine.” JJ explained he tried to give a smile and pull Jeremy away from Berkeley. He leaned over
and said in a low voice. “Try not to be so obvious.”

“Look who the hell is
talking,” Dee said and laughed. “Hi pot,” He
said to JJ. “This is kettle you have a lot in common.” He said and mockingly
introduced JJ to his cousin. JJ and Jeremy both blushed and looked away from
the laughter. Berkeley
had gone back to his case file and seemingly ignored the young man that had
ogled him. Behind his glasses he covertly took in the trim figure and hide a grin behind his file.

Break

The hotel walls were
painted a dingy green with streaks of sickening gray trailing through. Sparse
furniture graced the small room and the carpet may as well have not even been
present for all the good it did covering the scuffed floor boards. “It's all
right dear heart, soon you will be away from all
this...” A mother comforted her child and sniffled
choking back tears of her own. “Soon you will be free. He will take you... he
has to.” The mother broke down in piteous sobs and clutched the two year old
tightly against her rocking them both back and forth on the musty smelling bed.

Chapter 22:

The Most Wonderful
Christmas (Part 3)

“Hello... Hello... Can I
speak to Detective Randy MacLean?”

“One moment please... Who
can I say is calling?

“Ah... well,”

“Rita. Do you have those
files the Commissioner asked you for?” Ryo said as he walked to the front desk
of the PD.

“Yes they just came in, oh
and there is a call for you.” Rita said with a smile and indicated the person
holding on line one.

“Thanks, who is it?” Ryo
asked and picked up the receiver. Rita shrugged and answered another call.
“Detective MacLean, how can I help you?”

“...Ryo?”

“Who is this?” Ryo asked
his brow furrowing in confusion.

“Ryo...” Ryo listened, but
the only sound he could hear was the dial tone.

“Hey sexy, what's up?” Ryo
looked up as Dee took the file from his hand
and looked it over. Ryo sighed and shook his head before he sat the telephone
back on its receiver.

“That was weird, see
anything new?” Ryo said and looked over Dee's
shoulder.

“Not so much more than we
already knew. Another case, young woman, 23 years old, admitted at Mercy Hospital
seriously under the influence of double X. She can't even speak all she can do
is pant. Every two hours the nurses dip her in cool water.” Dee answered, Leon walked in
and his bright smile faded.

“We have to catch these
monsters.” Leon
said with a sigh. “Lets grab some lunch guys.” Ryo and
Dee nodded before they left the PD. “Hey JJ come along and grab some eats.”

Jeremy was astounded that
even though they were having lunch all that was discussed was the case and how
they might solve it sooner rather than later. As Jeremy listened he pulled out
his note book and scratched out a few sentences. He was just writing out Ryo's
latest comment about finding the source from Turkey, when he felt a distinct
presence standing beside their table. He looked up and gulped.

“Commissioner, join us,”
JJ said and scooted over. Jeremy clutched his pen close to his pad and
concentrated on his corned beef sandwich. “Can you shed any light on this?” JJ
tossed the manila envelope over to Berkeley.

“Afraid all we know is
that it started as a rave club date rape drug.” Berkeley said and winked at the waitress
before ordering a French dipped sandwich. “We can't seem to figure out how they
are getting into the country. If we can halt that, we might be able to...” Berkeley paused when he
noted Jeremy staring intently at him. Berkeley
grinned and winked before he looked over at Ryo. “What's with the chick that
called for you the other day?”

“Wish I knew,” Ryo said
with a frown and drained his glass. “I haven't heard a word since she called.”

“Our shift is almost over,
I am exhausted. “Dee complained and leaned against
Ryo.

“Yes, I understand, that
is why I called in reinforcements.” Berkeley
said with a grin.

“What?” Leon asked and
looked at his watch. “Wish I could stay and chat guys,
but I promised D I would be home to help him prepare dinner.”

“Yeah, we need to pick up
our brat and head home.” Dee said earning a
frown from Ryo.

“He is getting so much
better, you even said so yourself. Now Leon,”
Ryo said kindly with a smile to Leon.
“How is little D?”

“Oh... he is awesome.” Leon grinned and winked at Dee
in thanks before he got to his feet and rushed from the diner.

“Help prepare dinner
my...” Dee began but paused when he felt eyes
on him. He turned around but could see no one. “Hey. You feel that?” He asked
Ryo who nodded and looked around. After a moment, the feeling left and Ryo
turned away.

JJ looked at them oddly
before he stood and pulled Jeremy to his feet. “I must leave as well, Jerry,
Sorry, but Darling is not feeling to well and I would hate to disturb him.”

“Say no more Buddy; I'll
head back to the hotel and look over my notes for the article.” Jeremy said and
left.

JJ looked thankfully at
his cousin before he turned to Berkeley
and said, “Tell whoever is joining us to have fun.” JJ yawned widely and headed
home.

Break

Lord sat in a rocking
chair humming softly to himself as he plied his needle
and tread to soft silk cloth. JJ stood for a moment and watched entranced by
the peaceful beauty before him. Lord D smiled. “Welcome home,” he said smoothly
without turning around. “You are tired.” Lord D said and stood to his feet as
he turned JJ's eyes widened and he hurried to his lover's side. “Father says
that I am doing well. I am six months along... Today.”

“I missed the checkup.” JJ
said mournfully and sighed before he pulled Lord D into his arms. “I am so sorry.”

“It is alright, I have
another one in two weeks. Will you be there?” Lord D asked taking JJ's hand and
placing it against his quivering mass of tummy. “You are working very hard to
keep the city safe; I would be a spoiled brat to not understand that.” Lord D
turned quickly away and wiped an errant tear. “I do not need you here every
second of every day.”

“But I want to be here
when you do need me.” JJ said and kissed the neck pressed against his mouth.

“You are a detective and
you must work. You can not be here all the time, I understand all that... I do
not know why I am so upset.” Lord D said and sniffled.

“Because you are pregnant.
You handled D and Andy's mood swings, now you just have to deal with your own.”
JJ said and gently squeezed Lord D's hands. “Would you tell me what I missed?”

“Nothing much to tell,”
Lord D said and went back to his needles and thread. As he sat JJ stood for a
moment to admire him. Lord D looked up and smiled and JJ felt his heart skip
several beats. “My body is earnestly beginning to change so that I may give
birth.”

“The cramps?” JJ asked and
sat on the floor at Lord D's feet. JJ grinned and pulled Lord D's dainty foot
into his lap.

Lord D smiled when JJ
began to massage his foot. With his added weight his feet were paining him.
“Only if I become overly stressed.”

“So I am confining you to
bed until you deliver.” JJ said with a half hearted chuckle. “Nana is
sleeping?”

“Yes for quite some time
now. I waited for you.” Lord D said and held up his creation. “It is for Aoi.” He
informed JJ and showed him the delicate cheongsam.

“I am glad you waited.
Come to bed Precious.” JJ stood and slipped Lord D's shoes back on his feet
before hand in hand they headed down the hall.

Break

Leon entered the shop and paused. It
was strangely quiet Leon
thought and looked around. All the caged animals were sleeping and he could not
spot the ones that roamed freely. Leon headed to his bedroom and
found the door slightly ajar. He pushed it open a looked inside. He paused as
his heart melted and pooled into the soles of his feet. The missing animals
were cuddled together on the floor dozing and Chris sat in Count D's lap
holding Aoi as Count D read from a book of bed time stories. “You’re all still
up.” Leon
said and kicked his shoes off and crawled onto the bed.

“Since it is Friday and
tomorrow is Christmas Eve I told Chris that he could wait up for you.” D said
and nudged the sleeping child. Chris handed Aoi to Leon before he hugged his neck and
scooted from the bed. He left the room with Pon-Chan, T-Chan and Ten-Chan.

“I can't believe tomorrow
is Christmas Eve.” Leon
said and kissed Jewel's forehead. She opened her bright deep blue eyes and
stared at him before she blew a kiss. “Ha, she does that without prompting
now.” Leon
said and looked up at D with a great smile. “I have a great gift for you.”

“No more soft clothes to
torture me with?” D asked and raised a brow.

“You liked it.” Leon said and
smirked. D blushed and took Aoi. “You know you did and tonight you are going to
admit it.”

“Am I?” D asked when he
returned to the room. D jumped onto the bed and pinned Leon to the
bed. “I think you will reap what you have diligently sown.” D promised and held
Leon's
hand down. Leon
gasped when he felt metal against his wrist. “Ryo was kind enough to lend me
his spare set when I told him what I wanted them for.” Leon looked up
when he heard the scissors divesting him of his clothing. “
Now that that's settled.” D said and tossed the last shred of Leon's clothes
into the trash leaving him bare on the bed and helpless.

“What are you going to
do?” Leon
asked out of curiosity. He trusted D completely not to do anything too bad to
him.

“A little bit of this.” D
said and leaned down and licked a nipple. “Some of this.” D said and trailed
his tongue down to Leon's
navel. “And a bit of this.” D traced a finger over Leon's thighs and lightly over his
already excited member. “Can't forget this.” D said and licked Leon from base
to tip.

“Oh baby yeah, we can't
forget that.” Leon
said and arched up towards D's mouth. D chuckled and backed away.

“Now, now my pet.” D said
and patted the leg nearest him. “We mustn't get ahead of ourselves.” D said
climbed on top of Leon and
rubbed himself against the muscles in Leon's stomach. Leon felt the
slide of the silk against his skin and the tantalizing movements of D's hips
and he thought he was going to lose his mind. He could feel D's excitement
pressed against him and closed his eyes and bit his lower lip and threw his
head back as he moaned in pleasure.

Leon thought he was in pleasurable
shock as D licked his neck and slide along his body like a serpent. The silk of
D's robes were driving Leon
crazy and he twisted against the cuffs. “Don't do that.” D commanded and backed
away. He took a handkerchief and tied it underneath the metal of the cuffs.
“Now where was I? Oh yes, I was right here.” D said and bit Leon's ear before he curled his fingers around Leon and began
to stroke.

“D what are you doing?” Leon questioned
and began to pant. “I'm gonna... Stop... Baby...” Leon gasped and came over D's hand.
“Oh...” Leon
whimpered as D crawled up to his stomach and began to rub again. Leon stared in
awe as D undulated on top of him and raised a delicate hand up to the buttons
of his robe. Finally! Leon
thought and smiled when the robe fell away leaving D only in his pants. Leon wondered
how he had not noticed that D was not wearing a sheath under his robe, but at
the moment he did not really care.

“Want some?” D asked and
leaned his chest down so that his nipple was directly above Leon's mouth. Leon took it in
eagerly and sucked. D sighed and pulled away only to replace it with his other
one. When D pulled away Leon
tried to grab him and hold him still. The head board rattled as the cuffs
strained to be free. D laughed and slid down to Leon's lap and took hi m into his
mouth. Leon
stiffened immediately and tried to press up deeper into his mouth. D grasped Leon's hips and
held him down. Leon
was surprised at the strength but he enjoyed the skillful movements of D's
mouth and tongue. D worked his throat and Leon melted against the bed.

D backed away and peeled
his pants off before he applied a large amount of lubricant to Leon before he placed Leon at his entrance and pushed
down. As he began to move Leon
strained hoping to urge D to move faster. D undulated slowly and inched down.
As he took his time Leon
thought he would die from the need to bury himself deep inside of D. “Hold
still Leon,
let me love you.” D said and braced his hands on Leon's chest. He tweaked the
nipples at his hands and Leon's
hips jerked in response. “Let me... ummm, let me love you.” Leon looked up
and saw D toss his head from side to side as he lost himself to the pleasure
and collapsed on top of him. D reached up underneath the pillow and retrieved
the keys to the cuffs. As soon as Leon was free he picked D up and
lay him on the bed and thrust deeply into him . D
cried out and came again as Leon
released himself deep inside.

Leon lay on the bed exhausted and
happy. He pressed kisses to D's sweaty brow before he kissed him deeply. As
their tongues dueled Leon
grinned, it had been a great night.

Break

“You noticed it?” Dee asked and looked behind them and saw nothing.

“Someone has been
following us for since we left the pet shop.” Ryo said and placed his hand on
Bikky's shoulder. “When we pass that next light I want you to get out of the
car and run to the corner store. If we are not there in an hour, get yourself
home and call the police and tell them what happened. Dee
pulled up to the light and unlocked the doors of the car. Bikky bolted to the
corner store and they pulled away. The car they noticed followed them into an
alley. Dee parked the car and they both pulled
their guns and waited.

“I'll get out first,
you...” Dee began but paused when Ryo shook
his head.

“No, we both will. On the
count of three. One... Two...” Ryo frowned when on two,
Dee opened the door and jumped from the car
pointing his gun at the car. “Dee what the
hell are you doing?” Ryo demanded and pointed his gun
at the car.

“I'm taking care of you
dammit, I love you.” Dee said not taking his
eyes off the car. “Get out of the car with your hands up. And you had better be
unarmed or so help me you will be dead.” Dee
ground out. He gripped his gun tighter as the door opened and someone stepped
out. Dee tried to peer through the car window
to see the person.

“Step away the vehicle and
shut the door.” Ryo said. Dee gasped as the
door was shut and a slim woman stood in front of them.

“Ryo... Thank God! It is
you.” She said and ran towards him.

“Hold it... you do not run
towards a cop who has a gun on you.” Dee
yelled as Ryo sat his gun on the top of the car to keep from shooting the
ecstatic woman. She paused as Ryo grasped her arms and looked at the woman.

“Alicia... Alicia Grant.”
Ryo said relaxed. He released her and retrieved his gun and put it back in his
holster. “What are you doing here?”

Alicia's eyes watered and
she threw her arms around Ryo's neck. Dee
replaced his gun and came around the car and looked at the woman crying on his
lover. “What are you doing here?”

“They know...” Alicia
sobbed, “Oh God, they know. They know that Leon did not kill Bennett's son and
they know that I killed Leo. There are two families out to kill me and worse...
Worse...” Alicia hiccupped and the other car door opened again.

“Ma Ma...” Ryo looked
around Alicia and stared wide eyed at the small blond boy who looked to be
about two. “Scayered Ma Ma.”

“Oh, Lyo, baby.” Alicia
pulled away from Ryo and ran to scoop the small boy into her arms. “Dee, Ryo I
am terrified, they are after me. I change hotel rooms every night. They won't
kill him, but they will take him. I do not want him growing up in the Family.
Please... take him.”

“What?” Ryo stared at the
small child that clung to his mother and looked frightened up at the two
strange men. “Look Alicia, you are obviously frightened why don't you come home
with us and we will have some tea and discuss this.” Ryo said calmly and began
to walk Alicia to her car.

“Hold it, I can't take
that car. It is best to leave it here.” Alicia said and looked furtively down
the alley. Alicia placed her son in the backseat of their car and ran to hers.
She emerged a moment later with two large suitcases. She handed them to Dee and went back she carried a car seat. She attached it
to the backseat and placed her son in it. She looked again at the car and
buckled in.”

“Let's go get Bikky before
he calls back up.” Dee grumbled and got in the
car. Ryo did likewise. They made it to the end of the Alley and heard the
explosion before the car was rocked from the force of the large bang.

As plumes of smoke
billowed out of the alley Alicia gave them a bright smile. “Well boys, we
better get going before the cops show up.” Alicia said with a bright smile.

“Whatever, you are as
trippy as ever I see.” Dee said and pulled up.
They arrived at the corner store to find Bikky clutching a pay phone and
looking frantically out of the door.

“Ryo!” Bikky said and ran
to embrace Ryo. “What happened, I heard a bomb or something?”

“Shh come on.” Ryo
whispered and lead Bikky to the car. Bikky stared at the two new comers but was
silent until they reached their house. He entered and held Cujo back while
Alicia carried her child in.

“Ryo listen, here,” Alicia
said and pulled a thick envelope and handed it to Ryo. “It's all there, all you
have to do is sign and he will be your son, legal.” Alicia said frantically.

“Alicia think of what you
are saying. You want us to raise Leo's kid... LEO!” Dee
exploded from the kitchen and wrenched a beer from the fridge.

“Hey kid, you know, it's
almost eleven. How about we go to bed and let our parents talk about things?”
Bikky said and picked the child up.

“Ma Ma...” Lyo pouted and
his lower lip trembled.

“Go ahead baby,” Alicia
said and walked over to kiss the child's forehead. “Get some sleep it's been a
long two weeks.”

“Two weeks?” Dee asked and opened a beer and handed it to Ryo. Ryo
looked after Bikky as he carried the small child off to the spare room. “That
room is all made for tomorrow night. You know Leon, Little D and Chris are
coming over.”

“He can stay with me
tonight.” Bikky said and went to his bed room instead.

“I only drove for a couple
of hours a night and we hid in hotels for most of the day.” Alicia explained
and dropped beside Dee on the couch. Ryo
offered her a beer. Alicia shook her head and stared at Ryo. “I do not have
much longer to be alive. They will find me. I don't care, but please protect my
son.”

“We can put you in
protective custody. You and your son.” Ryo promised took a sip of his beer.

“No,” Alicia said shaking
her head. “I don't want him spending the rest of his life hiding. He has been
hiding for over a year now. I've done my best to keep him safe but...” Alicia
lowered her head into her hands and sobbed.

“Alicia,” Dee said seriously and lowered her hands. Dee looked her deep into the eyes and sighed. “You do
realize that you are asking him to raise the child of the man who killed his
parents.”

“Dee,” Ryo gasped.

“What, on the eve of the
night your parents were murdered, she shows up... what is this?” Dee looked glumly at Ryo and felt bad for him.

“Landy is innocent of any
crimes, do not punish him.” Alicia sobbed brokenly.

“Landy?” Dee
asked, “I thought his name was...”

“Lyo is just a nick name I
call him.” Alicia said and wiped her eyes on a tissue that Ryo handed her. “I
do not want him with me when they find me. At least this way... This way I can
choose the man who raises my son. I want him to grow knowing right from wrong,
not right from might. I want him to grow up honestly and on the right side of
the law. Here...” Alicia quickly pulled one of the suitcases over and opened
it.

“Holy crap!” Dee gasped as he stared at the piles of money.

“Before my dad I confessed
to what I did, he gave me this, he kept it in his room. He told me to run. He
told me to run...” Alicia broke into sobs. “I was obviously pregnant by then,
but he told me to run. After he was gone he could not protect me. He knew I
hated the life and he told me... He told me to run.” Alicia got to her knees in
front of Ryo. “I have only ever begged once in my life and that was form Leo to
take me away. But I a m begging you Ryo...”

“Alicia, get up.” Ryo said
and pulled her to her feet. “You are not just asking me to raise him. I am
committed to Dee and he would share in the
responsibility of this child's life.” Alicia noted the matching rings the
detectives wore.

Dee sighed and stood to his feet. He
closed the suitcase with the money and pulled her to her feet. “Don't open any
drawers in there; I'll put fresh sheets on in the morning.” Dee
said and showed her to the guest room.”

“I would never snoop on
you guys...” Alicia promised and looked around the neat room.

“Not the problem, lots of
different flavored lubes, candles, handcuff, plugs, and various other things A little impromptu gift for some friends.” Dee
said earning a glower from Ryo and a surprised gasp from Alicia. “Get some
sleep, we need to talk.” He told her and shut the door firmly behind her. Ryo
went and peeked in on Bikky. He sighed when he saw that the child was wearing
one of Bikky's large t-shirts. Ryo was silent as he walked to their bedroom.
“You want him.”

“Dee, we can't not help her.” Ryo said and undid his shirt. He tossed his guns
onto a chair. Ryo then sighed and checked to make sure the safety was on.

“Look Baby,” Dee said softly and pulled Ryo into his arms. “I mean,
help me... here's my kid.”

“Dee she's desperate.” Ryo said
remembering how sad Alicia was when she had told them that no one ever really
got what they want. “She killed the man she was madly in love with. She had to
know she was pregnant. That is probably why she staged that desperate attempt
to get away. She did not want to raise a child in the mob.”

Dee sighed and kissed Ryo gently on
the lips. “It's your call, what ever you want, I'm on it.” Dee
promised and pulled his pants off. “I'm beat. “ He said and crawled into bed.
Ryo sat up all night deep in thought. Could he do it? He wondered. Could he
raise the child of the man who murdered his parents?”

Break

“Merry Christmas Eve!”
Carol shouted into the telephone. “My Aunt is letting me come to the party
tonight I have to get ready.”

“Alright, it'll be fun.” Bikky
said he sighed and hung up looking at the kid that would soon be his brother.

Break

Dee stood back and allowed Leon and
Count D into the house. “Hey guys.”

“Hey.” Leon said and
hauled in the large bags of gifts. D walked in carrying Aoi and holding Chris'
hand. “I've got more stuff in the car would you mind helping me.” Dee sighed
and followed Leon
to the car. “Ok fess up. Who's the chick? And where is Ryo?”

“It is a long story, Ryo
went for a walk.” Dee explained and picked up
a large bag of gifts.

“Listen, JJ Nana and Papa
D will be here in a bit. Will Papa D experience anything stressful today?” Leon asked and
looked at JJ's car as it pulled. “You know he could lose his baby.”

“I hope not.” Dee said with a deep sigh as he watched JJ assist Lord D
and Nana from the car. “I really hope not.” Just as Lord D entered the house
Jill pulled up and hauled her own bag out of the car. As soon as all the guest
entered the house Alicia went into Bikky's room and stayed out of sight. Ryo
entered the house and hid a large bag behind the Christmas tree. Dee raised a brow at him and Ryo winked. Is everything
taken care of?”

Ryo nodded and greeted
their guest's he noted Leon
watching him. “Hi Leon,
how's it going?” Ryo said when Leon
walked over.

“Could ask you the same
thing.” Leon
said Ryo grinned and headed into the kitchen. He managed to avoid Leon's probing
question's all day. “You ready to talk yet?” Leon asked when he cornered Ryo
stacking the dishes. Ryo poured himself a cup of Egg nog and motioned for Leon to follow
him onto the porch. Ryo sighed and gulped his egg nog. “You doing magic tricks
with babes, now you see her how you don't. I can use all my detective skills
and say that since Bikky's room is closed and sealed despite Carol and Chris
wanting to play video games and I would say that she is hiding in there.”

“You're good, and
correct.” Ryo said he held up a hand when Leon would have said more. “She is
an old case, from New York.
We'll talk later. Little D looks tired it's almost midnight.” Ryo said and
waved Jill off. JJ had left an hour ago with Nana and Papa D. They all promised
to return tomorrow to open the gifts. “When I was eighteen, a young Mafia
beginner killed my parents. It's why I decided to become a cop. Tonight is the
anniversary of their deaths.”

“I know, Dee
told me last year. I am sorry man.” Leon said and patted Ryo's
shoulder.

“It's not that simple.”
Ryo sighed sadly. “The guy’s wife, we had to protect her a couple years ago.
She and I really hit it off and.”

“You slept with his wife?”
Leon
asked with a grin.

“No, we just became
friends, and then, she shows up yesterday and she has this kid. It's his kid
Leon, the kid of the man who... Killed my parents.” Ryo gulped his Egg nog down
and looked out at the twinkling lights of LA. “She wants to leave us with the
kid and go off and let them kill her.”

“Them?” Leon asked.

“Syndicate action, two
factions.” Ryo looked sad.

“When's the welcome home
party?” Leon
asked with a grin.

“Bite me.” Ryo said and
went back inside where Chris was excited when he found out that he would be
sleeping Bikky, Ryo and Dee tonight. “We have
the room all set up for you. Little D tried to give me back my spare cuffs, but
I told him to keep them.” Leon
blushed and looked away.

“Hahaha,” Leon felt Dee's
sneer before he turned and saw him standing behind him. “You would never know
that behind all that luscious patterned silk was pure kink.”

“You should meet his
dentist.” Leon
said and Followed D to bed.

Break

Alicia sat on the couch
and waited. She looked from Ryo to Dee and
back again. Ryo handed her the envelope she had given him and the suitcase of
money. “Take this money and run. Try to stay hidden and maybe even leave the
country or something.” Ryo said and helped her sit on the chair. “Open the
envelope.” Ryo said when Alicia began to sob.

Alicia peeled the envelope
open and paused at the Christmas card inside. She read the card. It was simple,
only two words were written: Merry Christmas. Alicia unfolded the child court
papers and gasped. “Randy MacLean and Dee Laytner...” Alicia looked at both of
them with tears of gratitude falling from her eyes. “Thank you, oh God thank
you.” Alicia said and hugged each of them in turn.

“Get some sleep.” Ryo said
and tucked her in next to Landy. “Keep the money, we have more than enough.”
Ryo kissed her forehead and went to join Bikky and Chris. Dee
looked behind him and frowned before he silently left the room.

Break:

Christmas Morning.

“What'd you expect?” Dee asked as he and Ryo looked in on Landy as he slept
alone in Bikky's bed.

“Thank you,” Ryo read from
a note left on the bed side table. “Give this to him when his old enough to
understand.” Ryo picked up the sealed letter and wiped a tear from his eye. “We
better get going Bikky and Chris are anxious to open
their gifts.”

“You get him something?” Dee asked as Ryo gently stroked the small head and
awakened the child. Landy opened his tired eyes and reached up for Ryo to pick
him up. Ryo complied and patted the small back.

“Ma Ma gone,” Lyo said and
looked steadily at Ryo.

“Yeah,” Ryo said and held
the child close. “Ma Ma gone.”

Chapter 23:

Club New Year's

“Ryo,” D said softly early
evening of Christmas day. Ryo looked deep into Count D's mis matched eyes. “You
speak Japanese, correct?” Ryo nodded and wondered why D had singled him out.
“Please, pronounce that child's name in your mother's native tongue.”

“Randy... Ryo ... The R's
and L's of Japanese are interchangeable, often mixed together.” Ryo blinked
rapidly. “How could she know?”

“Did she know that you
were part Japanese?” D asked and placed a slim hand on Ryo's trembling arm. Ryo
blinked again and nodded. “She admired you so much, that instead of honoring
the memory of her husband...”

“Please... No more... I
... Need to talk to Dee.” Ryo said and
snatched a beer from the fridge and went to find Dee.
Dee stood smoking a cigarette gazing at the
sun set. “Alicia... She named her child after... ME!” Dee
turned and looked at Ryo and wondered why he was freaking out.

“What are you talking
about?” Dee asked and pulled Ryo into his
arms.

“Lyo ... In Japanese is
Ryo. She named him after me.” Ryo hugged Dee
tightly and thought of the joy on Landy's face as he opened his Christmas
gifts.

“That child knows you.” Dee said and kissed Ryo's neck. “I'll bet you any amount
of money you choose that she showed him pictures of you explained that he would
live with you one day. He probably knows more about you than he knows about
Leo.”

“We will give him the best
life possible.” Ryo vowed and looked in at Lyo staring intently at T-Chan. It
took about ten seconds before he decided to scream at the top of his lungs. Ryo
ran to the child and scooped him up into his arms and hugged him. Ryo patted
until the child calmed. He looked up and smiled at Leon and D. It seemed their
family was not the only one expanding.

Break

One Week Later

“Awe man... Two years in a
row!” Leon
exclaimed as he looked in his closet to find clothes. “Those Arcadians are
awesome.” Leon
looked in on D as he sat on the bed in his bath robe feeding Jewel.

“She's grown,” D said and
brought the small baby to his shoulder and patted her back. Leon sat beside
D and smiled when he heard the small expulsion of trapped gas. “They're here.”
D said moments before Andy and Tisiphone could be heard outside their bedroom
door.

“D!” Andy squealed and ran
towards him. She saw D holding his baby and stopped before jumping him. She
heaved a deflated sigh and plopped onto the nearest chair. “So what are you
wearing tonight?” Andy asked and looked down at her own
outfit of skin tight black pants. The pants were cut up to the back of her
knee. D looked at the peek a boo deep purple velvet
and lace top with a brow raised dubiously.

“No Tiara?” D asked with
his brow raised. Andy grinned when he stood and put his elegant cheongsam back
into the closet. “What is on the agenda for tonight?”

“Detective, you have heard
of Double X haven't you?” Andy said not answering D's question.

Leon paused in the act of selecting a
different outfit. “The case from Hell why?” Leon said and headed into the
bathroom. He left the door open and hid behind it while he changed.

“An Arcadian Fairy on
routine surveillance of a demon in a night club left his drink on the table; he
was found panting in an alley and brought to the hospital. Naturally they could
not match his blood type. By the time we found him he had been suffering
incompetent health care and ice cold baths for three days.” Leon rounded
the corner at the sound of the male voice in his bedroom. High Prince Nestoir
leaned casually against the wall. Leon took in the loose fitting
black slacks. His deep blue shirt hung loosely and he held a jacket over his
shoulder.

“Clarisande was able to
help him and we are all spending New Years in club Diamond.” Tisiphone said and
looked into a mirror checking out her skin tight blue top. “And we are gonna
catch the bastards who dared try to mess with one of our citizens.” She
puckered her lips and automatically her lipstick was refreshed.

“D let us help you.” Andy
said excitedly when she saw D staring bemusedly at his closet. D looked
frightened and he glanced at Leon who was, along with Nestoir, being ushered
from the room. “Why don't you guys go wait for Ryo and Dee, they are leaving
their boys here with JJ, Nana and Lord D. You know Lord D is almost eight
months along. He's huge...” Andy kept talking and Leon soon found himself next to
Nestoir looking at a closed door.

“She's good,” Leon said with
a frown and finished buttoning his pants. “She's real good.”

“We didn't stand a
chance.” Nestoir agreed and walked down the hallway. He entered the front of
the shop to find Lord D sitting on the couch eating a bag of fried onion rings.
“What are you doing?” Nestoir asked Lord D licked his fingers and blushed.

“JJ brought them home one
night and I tasted them and I haven't been able to stop craving them.” Lord D
said and dug deep into the half empty bag. “Do you have any...”

“Barbecue sauce,” JJ
supplied when Lord D could not remember the proper English word.

“I'll check the kitchen.” Leon said and
backed away. “... Man he's huge.” He mouthed to Ryo and Dee as they entered the
Pet Shop. Ryo looked at Lord D before his eyes widened and he pulled Lyo's
jacket off and instructed him to behave and listen to Bikky. Ryo ruffled his
hair and was glad that Daphnus, Chimera and Kronos had come to their house to
inform them of the casual dress code for tonight.