Action!

The folder was on his desk when he arrived the next morning. With a feeling of dread, Ralph sat down and read the information that Mitchell had managed to collect in such a short time. It was as he feared. That woman was not Marcy Page but Mary Lockhart, an old girlfriend of his. She was also the woman who had nearly killed him.

"Dammit to hell!" Ralph pounded the desk in frustration. The next thing he did was pick up the phone to make an international call to Japan. No he didn't call his brother nor Jupiter Records but a security agency that they owned and operated out of Japan. If he could help it, no one would ever find out just how dangerous Mary could be. Ralph faxed the pertinent information on 'Marcy Page' and ordered his security people to go to the woman's apartment and kidnap her. He wanted it to appear that Marcy had simply disappeared. Ralph didn't want her dead, just sent back to the states and to the mental hospital that she'd escaped from.

Once off the phone Ralph paced. He debated what to do and whether or not he should tell Sakuya what was going on. He was a big boy and could handle himself and Ralph didn't relish telling his brother that he was in danger because one of his old girlfriends was to put it nicely – mental. Telling their father was out of the question. Ralph wouldn't say anything to him without the threat of violence or the threat of being disinherited! Of course this situation was partly their father's fault as well but Ralph would never mention that either. Finally he pushed thoughts of Marcy a.k.a Mary from his mind and got to work as he waited.

Dusk was settling before Ralph returned to his office after a long but successful meeting. Grazer Media had acquired yet another television network. He would report his achievement tomorrow morning to his father. Now he just wanted to file the contracts with their people in legal, check his messages then head to his favorite restaurant for large steak and some expensive wine. Maybe he'd even call Mizuki and see if she could join him. They'd both been working so much lately that the only time they got to spend time together was in the early mornings before work.

Leaving legal, who'd been asked to stay late in case the deal with through, Ralph went upstairs and had just settled in behind his desk when Mitchell rushed in without knocking.

"Sir! I'm glad you're back. The situation in Japan – it's not good!" Mitchell blurted out. He'd been waiting on the edge of his seat for Mr. Ralph to return.

Ralph got up and went to close the door Mitchell had left open. The office was empty but he didn't want to take any chances – his father had ears every damn where. "What's happened? What about Sakuya? Is he hurt?" Tense was a mild word for what he felt.

Mitchell sucked in his breath and backed up before speaking quickly. His boss had literally gotten in his face and stood toe to toe with him. "Mr. Sakuya is fine. That's not the problem. Our people did go to the apartment but it was empty. Ms. Page never once stayed there. Apparently she just wanted people to think that was where she was staying. They can't find out where she's living." Mitchell took another step back as Mr. Ralph's eyes flashed blue fire.

Ralph sighed then closed his eyes briefly. Sakuya's fine. He's alive. The relief only lasted a second before he was frowning. "She didn't leave anything behind? Can't they trace her whereabouts? What about the phone? Somebody must have tried calling her place!"

"The apartment is as empty as the day she rented it. No phone was ever hooked up. There's nothing to trace, she paid in cash." Mitchell watched his boss warily.

Ralph turned away from Mitchell and crossed his arms. "Damn woman had it all planned from the start! She always did plan ahead." He began to pace. "They'll just have to follow her and wait for the right moment." I'll have to call now. Maybe I should call Takayama instead of Sakuya. I can give him a damn good reason for firing Mary – she's crazy!

"Mr. Ralph, there's more." Mitchell stated then blinked at how quickly his boss was in front of him again and holding him by the lapels of his suit. "We're already watching her but indirectly. And – and people around your brother have been hurt." He found the words came out of his mouth but at only half the volume because he was now quite scared.

Ralph shook his head trying to understand what was just said then shook Mitchell instead. "What?! Speak sense man!" Hurriedly Mitchell told Ralph what was going on in Japan.

Dazed Ralph released Mitchell and walked blindly to his chair. "So Sakuya's friends – the women have been hurt. It doesn't make sense; those women are with his band mates. Is she jealous of them? That's crazy – Sakuya has tons of women throwing themselves at him! Is she going to attack all the women in the damn city?! What the hell am I saying? She is fucking crazy! Dammit!" Ralph took a breath. "At least Aine's okay. Let me see if I understand. Sakuya and the others believe they're being targeted indirectly through their women. Yeah, hurting the ones you love would be a big incentive but for what reason? To stop them from going international? But why those other women and not Aine, the woman he loves? What is Mary doing?" Ralph pondered that question a moment then... "How was our security firm brought into this?" I just contacted them this morning.

"Umm, actually Mr. Sakuya has used our firm before. An incident concerning Miss Mizuki was the first cause and I'm to understand that he used them as bodyguards for his girlfriend after a near rape. Apparently he suggested the firm to Jupiter Records since he'd had a good relationship with them already. I would assume that he doesn't know Grazer owns the business." Curiosity ate at Mitchell but he knew better than to ask personal questions about his boss and the women in his life. Mizuki had at some point been involved with Mr. Sakuya before leaving Japan to be with Mr. Ralph. Had the woman slept with both brothers?

A quick smile flashed across Ralph's face as he remembered the incident involving Mizuki. Of course it had happened before he'd met the up and coming singer but the whole situation was quite ironic. "No, I doubt it too since we don't advertise that we own a security firm. Most uninformed people think all of our businesses are concerned only with media – TV, newspapers and radio. Of course our firm provides security for our Japan enterprises but also for stars, politicians and the like. Ours is one of the best security firms in Japan. I see my brother is as perceptive as ever when it comes to business and who the best is. So they hired security after this Yuuka was hurt and the police report confirms that it wasn't an accident but an intentional act. The girl could have died. Damn." Ralph sat back in his chair. It has to be Mary's doing. These women must have crossed her in some way but what's her plan ultimately? She tried to kill me to keep me. Is she doing all this to get Sakuya but what about Aine? Aine is the most important person in Sakuya's world. To even have a chance at Sakuya – Mary will have to get rid of Aine!

"When can I head to Japan?" Ralph made up his mind then and there. Mentally he was already packing and trying to come up with an excuse to tell his father why he was leaving the country so abruptly.

"Umm, not for three days." Mitchell stepped back when Ralph glared at him. "The deal you just sealed – there's bound to be some legalities that will have to be worked out tomorrow and key people need to be informed and then there's a board meeting in two days! I've passed off the lesser appointments to a couple of the other executives and rearranged or postponed all of your other meetings but I couldn't get you out of that one without your father finding out!" The words spilled from his lips. Mitchell paused when Ralph didn't say anything and only nodded. "The jet will be gassed and ready the moment the board meeting is over." He finished quietly.

"Good, thank you Mitchell. Go on home. I think I'll stay and do some work. I should call Japan again too." Ralph was tense all over. His earlier triumph of buying that network was already an old memory. I need to speak to the people guarding Sakuya and Lucifer. They should know the threat is definitely coming from Mary, no Marcy. Plus I'll need some protection for myself as well. What a god-awful mess! "And keep this to yourself Mitchell. If anyone wonders where I'm gone or why – just tell them I'm taking my girlfriend back to Japan for a visit." Mizuki had been asking him to take her home for a while to see her twin and clear the air between them. She's been working too hard anyway and this way Mizuki can be with her brother and I can deal with this mess – kill two birds with one fucked up stone!

"Very good sir. Goodnight Mr. Ralph." Mitchell wasn't expecting an answer since his boss had turned his chair around to stare out at the steadily darkening city.


Ralph held an ice pack against his jaw. Silently he accepted the glass of bourbon from a curious Mizuki. He knew she had questions but he was just too – too frustrated to talk just then. They had more than half a day to fly and there would be time to tell her everything before they arrived. He sipped from the crystal glass and winced. Dammit, it'll probably leave a bruise! Father…!

His shoulders had been in knots for four days straight and his eyes were a bit bloodshot from lost sleep. Ralph had been all business during the meeting, not allowing things to stray away from business and because everyone had sensed his no nonsense attitude, things had ended at least two hours earlier than usual. With the meeting over, Ralph had a quick word with his secretary, gathered his coat and briefcase then took his private elevator down to the garage where a limousine waited, Mizuki already inside. Mitchell rode down with him handing him his passport and getting last minute instructions. When the elevator doors opened, Ralph got an unpleasant surprise – his father, Rupert Grazer.

He was getting older of course but there was still enough blond in his hair so everyone knew where Ralph's coloring came from and of course those piercing blue eyes. Right now the elder Grazer looked angry.

"Why in the hell have you canceled all your appointments for the remainder of the week and pushed your work off on other people? But of course I already know." Rupert growled and stepped forward until he was breathing in his son's face. "What the hell is going on in Japan? Does this have to do with Sakuya?!" He gripped Ralph's arm in a punishing way. The father was aging but he had the body of a man in his prime and his strength could not be denied by his son.

That little meeting hadn't gone well at all and Ralph cursed thinking that hiding things from his father was no easier now than when he'd been five. With extreme reluctance he'd told his father everything. After turning a nasty shade of purple and harshly slapping his eldest son, Rupert Grazer had ordered Ralph to handle the situation – have the woman taken care of, make sure that Sakuya was safe and to do it all quietly. Rupert demanded that there be no hint of a scandal concerning the Grazer name. Ralph laughed derisively. The whole situation should be printed in a book about dysfunctional families! Sakuya had never wanted or even claimed the Grazer name. He wanted next to nothing to do with Rupert but the man had in his old age and in his own way begun to care for his bastard Japanese son.

"I was going to do that anyway old man!" Ralph muttered to himself as he watched the clouds outside his window. "Ready or not Mary, I'm going to put an end to your obsession with me or should I say Grazer? Bitch, you won't have Sakuya." He promised then in one gulp finished his drink.


The Cradle's walls and floors shook with the sound music, the stomping of feet, the clapping of hands and the cheers from the crowd. Lucifer performed Wicked then hyped by the groove and the response of the audience went into another number, one of their older songs C no Binetsu (The Fever of C.) It didn't matter that the people were all professionals paid to be there; when the music was this good you couldn't help but scream, dance and have a good time.

Four cameras caught all the action. Every angle of the stage and the band was filmed and of course the excited crowd featured in some of the shots. One woman was especially excited, not only to be there but to have the camera on her. Yuuka was like a kid on Christmas having received every gift she'd ever wanted and dreamed of.

She was finally free of the hospital, its quiet atmosphere and her mother's overprotective ways for a few precious hours. No she couldn't dance and jump like Aine but she clapped, bounced and screamed herself hoarse. After the two sets were done Aine, Maria, Miya, Lee and the Master all hurried to get her some water and give her a towel and just generally spoil her.

"ENOUGH!" Yuuka laughed. As soon as she got them to back off some, Atsuro was there behind them hovering but he could see she was fine. Fine in a way she hadn't been since the fall. He tickled Aine out of his way then leaned down to kissed his very happy soul mate. When Atsuro pulled away, Yuuka pulled him back. "Not enough!" Her smile and pleasure only grew as her lover kissed her.

The whole group gathered around the table where Yuuka had been placed happy to be all together once again. Of course the group consisted of ten more people – the bodyguards. Lee happened to be Yuuka's. Each guard was out of uniform having become a part of the audience in order to provide the needed extras as well as be as close as possible to their charges. The guards for the band had stayed out of the limelight and were keeping close tabs on Marcy. They felt bad for not informing Sakuya or even Takayama about what was going on but ultimately Ralph Grazer controlled their paychecks and their ability to find other employment so it was to him they owed first loyalty. Besides they were still doing the job they were hired to do, the only difference now was they knew who the suspect was.

The American producers were high on success. It wasn't just that they'd gotten the most perfect shots they needed for their show but they'd had a damn good time while doing. They ordered the crews to start packing up and moving things to Tokugawa's studio for the scenes that needed to be shot there that afternoon. It was late morning outside but inside the club it was like night and Lucifer had just rocked out!

It would take a few hours to move all the equipment and give the crews time for a lunch break. At about three or four that afternoon they would begin filming again, this time it would be the dressing room scene. The American actors were planning to go out and see a bit of the city while Lucifer and Ladies would stay and have lunch at the club.

"Now don't you worry Miya!" The Master said coming up behind the shy girl taking her shoulders. "The food is coming from my cousin's restaurant and even a few of your security people are going to test the food first so you make sure you eat your fill. You're getting too skinny! Towa wants curves to hold onto or are trying to look like a boy while he looks like a girl?" He sounded so serious at first that it was quiet for a moment before he laughed. "Can't an old man tease his good friends? You're gorgeous Miya but you could do with a few more pounds!" He kissed her cheek then tickled her ribs. While Santa started in on Towa and his feminine looks.

Not wanting to be left out, Sakuya talked over Santa. "Actually Aine makes a good-looking man." Sakuya said and proceeded to tell those who didn't know about the time she came to watch an interview of his and dressed to look like him so that she could hide in the crowd with the fans. Of course he'd recognized her. Sakuya would always know his woman no matter what she did to change her appearance.

"Well you all make beautiful women." Maria joined in reminding everyone of Lucifer's outdoor concert where they'd dressed as women to draw the fans' attention away from a competing band making its debut.

"You know that just might make some good publicity." Kai said thoughtfully then jolted when Santa slipped an arm about her waist.

Santa rested his chin on her shoulder. Since she'd told the girls about the two of them, he was trying to act as a normal boyfriend would but it was still kind of awkward for him knowing everyone was watching them, apparently for Kai too. "What would?"

Kai blushed and looked back at their friends to see them all watching with smiles on their faces. "Umm well I'd been thinking we should have a big party, you know right before we go to London. Sort of a thank you to all the people who've helped us out – sponsors, TV and newspapers, magazines, some government officials and a few lucky fans but this talk of dressing up as the opposite sex – wouldn't that be something fun and stand out in people's memories? You guys would be in evening wear and us, the ladies would wear tuxes. What do you think?" Kai got excited and stopped being embarrassed.

Takayama caressed his chin. "Well I like the idea of the party thanking everyone but I don't know about having all our guests dressing up. Some of them are too straight-laced to even think about doing that and frankly I would hate to see some of those men in dresses." He shivered and shook his head at the horror.

"We could make it optional of course but I think it would be great fun." Kai said leaning forward. "Just think of all the commemorative photos we could take and maybe make some of them exclusive and auction off those photos to help pay for future bills or Lucifer could donate the money to a charity." She was getting really excited. "Think about it!"

"I like it." Aine chimed in and looked Sakuya up and down. "You made a beautiful woman Sakuya. How about it? I'll help you shave your legs!" She laughed thinking of his hard legs as smooth as silk.

Sakuya was shaking his head but grinning. "Silky smooth legs huh? Alone with you in the shower with your hands all over me? Yeah, I could live with that but what concerns me is that I'll be all vulnerable in a skimpy dress that you could easily get your hands under and you in a suit with too many damn buttons – that I don't like!" He reached for Aine and slipped one hand down her shoulder knocking off the spaghetti strap of the silky royal blue sheath she was wearing and slid the other hand to the split that began at mid-thigh. "See – easy access!" The wicked light in his eyes telling her he was going for her treasures.

The group laughed as Aine slapped at his hands. "Quit it you pervert! Ugh, hands like and octopus! Sakuya I swear if you don't quit - I'll do this to you at the party!" Aine threatened pinching his hands as hard as she could.

"Ah sweetheart, I'll look forward to it." Sakuya said leaning down to kiss her neck, wrapping his arms around her waist.

She just shook her head. "So incorrigible. Well, are we going to do it?" Aine asked Takayama and Sasaki.

"I think dating the drummer has affected your thinking." Sasaki said sarcastically but with no ill will. "How about I put out some feelers? Marcy and I should be able to come up with something, right?" He looked over to where the woman sat at a nearby table seemingly making notes.

"Hmm, oh yes of course Sasaki. It's actually a great idea Kai. Lucifer is known for doing outrageous things to capture the public's attention. It would be a fitting thing for them to do as they leave Japan." She smiled at everyone.

"Alright then, Sasaki if the response is good, you and Kai can get started on the details. Ah good the food's here!" Takayama Hitoshi perked up ready to eat. "You know – none of you will have a thing on me. I'll be the most beautiful woman there!" He taunted and meant it as he threw his long hair back over his shoulder.

"That's what you think!" Maria chimed in surprising them. "Yuki will be to die for – he'll blow you out of the water!" Her eyes flashed and her lips were curved into an excited smile.

"Oh-ho! A challenge is it?" Miya asked. "You forget my skills Maria." She moved over to Towa and stroked his face. "This star will outshine you all!" Miya pointed at Santa, Yuki, Atsuro, Sakuya and Hitoshi.

They laughed and argued and ate still riding the high show had given them. The producers had been working and checking the footage but at the ruckus the gang was making, they ended up joining the group. They sat at Marcy's table but paid no attention to what she was writing unfortunately.


Trio, Lucifer's exclusive clothes designers hadn't been able to make the filming at the Cradle but they were waiting at Tokugawa's studio when everyone arrived. Lee, Ivan and Kei brought duplicates of the clothes everyone had worn and they helped Lucifer and Aine get ready for the next scene. Ivan decided to help Aine knowing that he made the guys uncomfortable because of his preference for men. Lee and Kei split up to help the guys and Kei was now on her best behavior. She'd been a professed man-eater and still was but now she kept her hands away from Lucifer for the sake of their business relationship.

Miya had help reapplying the makeup, two assistants but she oversaw everything wanting everyone to look perfect. The makeup had to be heavier so the lights wouldn't wash out their features but at the same time, they had to look as if they'd just come off stage. The footage from the Cradle was being replayed over speakers and on several TVs so as to remind everyone of the feelings they'd had at the Cradle. Lucifer needed to recapture that performance high and Aine needed to remember how she'd felt seeing her mate and best friends doing what they were best at.

There was a pause as the TVs went blank and someone hurried to restart the tape. Taking advantage of the momentary lack of background music, Sakuya began to sing Belong as Miya finished misting his hair and Lee made the finishing touches to his clothes. He'd been watching Aine and all the happiness and the brightness that had been in her eyes had vanished. She'd gone pale and was fidgeting as Ivan adjusted her clothing according the producer's specifications and the shots taken of her at the Cradle.

You were unexpected, unwanted, unasked for

Not wished for, not dreamed about

Yet the moment we met, as soon as your

Flesh met mine

You stole my life, my heart, my soul

I now belong to you

Everything I am, you now possess

How does it feel to live inside my flesh?

To know my every thought, to control my movements

I belong to you…and you belong to me

I found you and made you mine

Your life, your soul, your love is mine

You are my obsession

You were unexpected, unwanted, unasked for

Not wished for, not dreamed about

Yet the moment we met, as soon as your

Flesh met mine

You stole my life, my heart, my soul

I now belong to you

What we've found is possession

Or maybe it's obsession but I believe

What we've found is love

I belong to you…and you belong to me

We belong to each other

Forever in love…

Santa who was hardly ever without his drumsticks was tapping them against the makeup table as Sakuya sang. Yuki had scooped up his guitar and was playing along. Not to be left out, Atsuro and Towa grabbed their instruments, each of them moving closer to Aine – playing just for her.

People stopped where they were and listened. They smiled as Sakuya caught Aine in his arms and began dancing with her. The music wasn't as loud as it would have been if the instruments had been connected to amps but the high ceilings allowed the sound to fill the entire studio. It was hard not to be drawn in by Sakuya's voice as he sang for Aine. Even though there were about a hundred people around, the atmosphere was close and intimate. Each man was Sakuya and each woman was Aine and they were in love.

"Better?" Sakuya asked softly as he curled her hair behind one ear.

Aine blinked dazzled at being serenaded. "Oh Sakuya, you know I love that song but I'm so nervous! I don't want mess things up! You – Lucifer, you're all naturals. You're comfortable on stage and in front of cameras. What if fall or do something wrong? I could ruin everything! Sakuya -!" Aine couldn't speak as Sakuya brought her up on her toes to kiss her.

Yuki again began playing his guitar with a grin, the others joining him. They continued to play as the couple kissed and even after Sakuya finally let her feet touch the floor again.

"See that wasn't so hard." He squeezed her waist. "Just keep your eyes on me. Tune it all out, everything but the sound of my voice and your name. When you hear your name, just come to me alright?" Sakuya smiled at her encouragingly.

"Hey Aine, let this song play in your head." Atsuro suggested then laughed gently when she started and realized that all eyes were on her. "Don't be embarrassed Aine, just think of it as practice. You did great by the way." Atsuro winked at her.

Yuki stopped playing. "He's right Aine. Playing for you calmed our nerves too. Acting is a little different than being on stage making music. This is new for us too. We're all here for you – don't forget that." He reached out and patted her shoulder.

Aine peered around at the smiling faces and encouraging nods from her friends. The atmosphere was definitely different than the one before. It wasn't tension filled and urgent anymore but relaxed and hopeful. They all knew it was going to work out just like it was supposed to. She nodded. "Okay let's do this!" Aine hugged Sakuya one more time then stepped away from him.

"Wait a minute; I need to fix your makeup. Sakuya kissed all your lipstick away!" Miya ran over a huge smile on her face.

"PLACES EVERYONE! FIVE MINUTES AND COUNTING!" Cannel yelled out.

Kyo, Maria and Yuuka were sitting off to one side watching. "He's grown so much." Maria commented on Sakuya's actions. "Women just used to be how Sakuya played. They were nothing more than recreation for him. Sakuya used them and vice versa but with Aine…he's now a man – a real loving man with eyes for only one woman." She shook her head glad to witness the change in him. Maria had worried that he'd never be truly happy. Just watching him now, she knew she'd never have that worry again.

"Yeah, it was hard to really like Sakuya before Aine came along." Yuuka told them. "He was nice enough to me since I was Atsuro's sister but he was cold. His blue eyes were always icy but now they're warm and he's more attractive too since his smiles are genuine now. That Aine worked a miracle on him." Yuuka waved to Atsuro as he looked to see if she was watching. She caught the kiss he blew her in her hand and giggled.

"As much as I hate to admit it, the miracle goes both ways. Look at Aine now; she's excited where before there was nothing but fear and worry on her face. Then there's the rest of them. They stepped in almost immediately to back Sakuya up as he tried to make Aine feel at ease. She's got a special relationship with all of them." Kyo said grudgingly at first but ended sounding pleased.

"That she does." Maria confirmed. There was only so much she could do to help Yuki but Aine even though she didn't sing or appear on stage with them, she was definitely a member of Lucifer. It was enough to make a woman jealous but she loved Aine and that made all the difference. "BREAK A LEG YOU GUYS - AINE!" Maria yelled out and each of the guys gave them the thumbs up sign. Her friend just blushed.

Scene: The band was in the dressing room laughing and talking about how great the crowd was and how it was one of their better shows. There was talk of meeting up with their women during the break and getting some food then maybe staying out all night club and bar hopping when there was a knock on the dressing room door.

Aine watched from her mark. She was extremely grateful that they were using their own names for the show. The name of the band was the same too; the only things that had been changed were their backgrounds so that it would fit in with the storyline. When she thought about it though, Sakuya's background was quite similar to the one he was playing except for the fact he'd never resorted to committing criminal acts to get by.

Aine focused once more on the action. Two American detectives entered and began questioning Sakuya about a guy he grew up with. Sakuya and this guy had parted ways years ago but the detectives were following every lead they could and Sakuya's name had come up.

How's he able to do that? Sakuya looks wary and defiant as if this were really happening to him. And Santa and Yuki look really angry at the detectives telling them to lay off and go back to America. Atsuro's line had him stammering a bit before also getting angry – perfect. None of them are messing up! Oh God, I hope I'm not the one to mess up. Whoa look at Towa; I've never seen him so threatening – scary. They're doing just what the director and producers asked them to.

Sakuya asked for a few minutes alone with the detectives and the other members of Lucifer reluctantly left. They joined Aine sighing, looking extremely relieved to be off camera. Yuki put his arm around Aine bolstering her courage since it was nearing time for her part.

"Aine – go!" Cannel whispered.

Yuuka and Maria were holding hands leaning forward. Miya was clutching a hair brush in one hand, her fingers crossed on the other. Kai was at her side clutching a clipboard and nodding. The four band members looked like one being as they crowded close together. Kyo was standing behind the cameraman with his fists clenched. Hitoshi and Sasaki were standing at the control board, eyes flicking between the live scene and what was showing on the TV screen, both tense in the way they stood with their arms crossed. Each of them was willing Aine to well.

"Sakuya?" Aine asked softly as she opened the dressing room door. She immediately realized that he wasn't alone and looked the strangers over before returning her gaze to her lover.

"Aine. Come here." He held out a hand for her then pulled her into his chest. "We're done here. I told you what I know which was nothing since I haven't seen him in over five years. Get out and don't bother me again. That part of my life is long gone; I've got a new life now with Lucifer and her." This wasn't exactly in the script. He'd changed his lines a little bit but still he spoke the truth. The life he had before had been hard and lonely but all that changed when Yuki invited him to join the band and then the fateful day he'd almost run over Aine with his car.

No one yelled cut, the filming continued. The actors rolled with it, adlibbing happened often in their line of work. The detectives told him if they found out he was lying, there would be consequences and if he really was innocent then there would be no problems. They warned him to stay the hell away from their suspect or this life he treasured so much might come to an end.

Aine frowned at this. She didn't like what they were saying about Sakuya accusing him of things he hadn't done and threatening him. Aine moved to stand in front of Sakuya. "Leave him alone! Sakuya's a singer not a criminal!" She took a deep breath then calmed down. "Please go, Sakuya has another set and you're interrupting his break." Aine bowed her head at them. "Sayonara." She was completely involved in the fictional story created for Sakuya.

Sakuya blinked and his quick smile was evident as he crossed his arms around Aine's tiny waist. "You heard my lady, sayonara detectives." Despite his smile, his voice didn't match the smile.

The detectives stared a minute or so at the couple before looking at each other sighing and nodding. They'd done what they'd come to do. As they turned to leave, Sakuya spun Aine around and cupped her face. There was such gratitude and pleasure on his face as he looked at her.

"Aine…" He sipped at her lips at first, tiny kisses just barely enough to tempt them both before giving in and picking her so that she sat on the table behind them. Sakuya moved between her legs and kissed the love of his life.

One detective watched them, a hint of jealousy in his eyes before he followed his partner out, shutting the door and giving the couple their privacy.

"CUT!" Cannel yelled and joined in with everyone who was clapping and cheering.

"Amazing!"

"Way to go Aine!"

Aine jumped at the sounds suddenly all around them and pulled away from Sakuya. Her eyes went wide as saucers as did her mouth as she realized what she'd done. She wanted to cry. Aine crumpled Sakuya's shirt in her hands. "I'm sorry." She whispered.

Sakuya laughed, leaned forward again to whisper in her ear. "Listen to what they're saying sweetheart. They're praising you." He picked Aine up, turned and placed her before him facing the cheering crowd.

Aine blinked in confusion as she shook the actors' hands and hugged the producers and director. She got smothered when Lucifer finally got to her. The picked her up and handed her between them spinning her around excitedly. Yuuka could be heard, yelling about how perfect she'd been. Maria and Miya showed up and tried to hug her as well but Santa had lifted her to his shoulder like a conquering hero. Aine stared down at their smiling faces. She wanted to be happy too but she'd changed the script they'd practiced! "But-but I spoke!" Her voice could finally be heard as the happy noise began to wind down.

They laughed at her. Kyo came up and grabbed her waist. He gave a kiss on the lips then set her on her feet. "You did and in English no less! You didn't even know you'd done that did you?!" Kyo couldn't help but hug her. "All you knew was that some men were bothering Sakuya and you weren't going to stand for it! Aine you looked like a natural on screen but you weren't acting were you? It was totally real!" That was the kicker. Aine had protected her Sakuya because it's what she would have done had it been real and to her it had been and that's why the scene was perfect.

"And that's why we're keeping it!" The other producer Dean said moving to where Aine could see him as all her friends surrounded her. "It's not unusual for the actors to get really into a scene and start adlibbing that's why we kept rolling. If we didn't like it – we could always do another take but what Sakuya said and then how you reacted to him and the detectives…it was all real like Tokugawa said. But you really didn't know you were speaking in English?" He scratched his head at that.

Hitoshi spoke up. "Aine has been practicing her English for a while now and she's been around at all the rehearsals listening and soaking it up." He reasoned but was just as amazed as the rest of them that she'd spoken so well. "Congratulations Aine." He leaned down to kiss her cheek.

"Are you sure? I wasn't supposed to do anything but kiss Sakuya." Aine worried despite the obvious praise she was getting. A large hand touched the top of her head, swept down her hair to the small of her back. She knew that touch – Sakuya.

"Positive. You stole the scene completely." Sakuya told her. "I'm proud of you Aine." He laughed as all her apprehension finally slipped away and she turned into him with a sigh. "Want to see the footage?" He grinned at her.

Aine perked up so quickly that everyone was dazzled by her smile. "Can I?"


Marcy knew she was going to be sick. She'd stayed in a dark corner of the set. There were cables and props all around her. No one needed to be where she was so it was a secluded place to watch and not be watched. Her stomach had begun churning when Sakuya started to sing for that bitch. She'd tried to tell herself it didn't matter, that Sakuya didn't mean any of it. He was only doing it so that the dumb brat didn't fuck up. But no matter what she'd told herself just watching him treat Aine so tenderly caused her throat to close up in frustration and anger.

That's supposed to be me! SAKUYA BELONGS TO ME AND ME TO HIM – NOT HER! Dammit! Dammit to hell! Marcy suffered in silence as she watched Aine enter the scene on cue. She hoped, wished and prayed for the girl to fall, stutter, forget everything and stand there like a fucking piece of wood but she hadn't. Aine didn't mess up at all, that had been bad enough but she'd spoken too! She wasn't supposed to speak! All she had to do was look cute and kiss Sakuya. Aine was just supposed to be a prop to make Sakuya look good but she'd deliberately drawn attention to herself! She didn't follow the goddamn script at all! They should cut and burn the film! Aine ruined Sakuya's moment!

Marcy held her stomach. The lunch she'd eaten wasn't going to stay down. The effort of holding in her hate and malice was turning her body against her. She rushed off silently to the bathroom to throw up.

Sanosuke and Shinji both watched her go wondering what she was up to. The woman honestly looked sick but Marcy could be faking the sickness and planning something. They wanted to detain her but without Ralph-sama there to back up their actions, it would be pointless. For all intents and purposes, Marcy was innocent. They had four days before Ralph-sama arrived. Until then they could do or say nothing, they may never actually get to tell Lucifer anything. It was possible they would catch Marcy alone and do as their boss commanded and make her disappear or Marcy might try to hurt another of the women and be caught that way. At least they hoped they would catch her before she could hurt anyone else. The only ones left were Aine and Maria and both men were completely dedicated to keeping them safe but when dealing with someone like Marcy, anything could happen. It was going to be a long four days.


Lucifer and the American actors were asked to retake their places so more camera angles could be shot but that's all that was needed. It was early evening and the days' work was finally done. Hitoshi decided to treat everyone to dinner. He reserved a restaurant and any and all who worked on the sets that day were invited. It was a boisterous affair but ended early for the Americans who still had filming to do the next day. Sakuya's next scene wasn't until the day after tomorrow so he didn't have to leave and could hang out with his friends.

At midnight, they were still in the restaurant drinking wine or having coffee, just enjoying each other's company. Marcy sipped her wine and managed to eat a little food but she felt completely out of place. It seemed as if a wall was separating her from the rest of them. Even the damn bodyguards seemed more like friends with the close group than she did. The feelings of being an outsider just reinforced her desire to get rid of all of them. After all the hard work she'd done for them, they treated her like a freaking stranger. Oh yeah, their time is coming.

"Ready to go?" Atsuro asked Yuuka as she dozed on his shoulder. He was stretched on two chairs so that he could sit with her in his lap and support her leg. The cast sported everyone's signature, the Americans' too plus a few drawings done by Yukihiko. It was now a collectors' item worth a lot of money.

"Nooo, I don't want to go back to that place." Yuuka whined. "Can't we go home?" She turned her head into his neck resting her eyes there.

"Soon, I have to move the furniture around to accommodate your extra weight." He teased refusing to bring up why she really couldn't come home yet. "Just think about when you get pregnant; we'll definitely have to move into a house since you'll be twice as big as you are now! Ow! Since when did you become a biter?" Atsuro groused and rubbed his neck where she'd bit him.

"Babies? Atsuro you dog – wait until she's out of the cast first!" Santa tilted head and considered the couple. "How would you do it? I mean that cast goes almost all the way up to her – ow! What'd you hit me for?" Santa snapped around to face Kai gingerly touching his head.

"Don't be so nosy or crude." Kai admonished him. "Sorry Yuuka, just ignore him." She'd popped her new boyfriend on the back of the head.

"We always tease each other this way. Yuuka's used to it." Santa grumbled. "See if you get any tonight!" He crossed his arms and pouted.

The laughter really went into high gear with that comment. "I think that's the other way around!" Sakuya barked. "Don't forget we know you! As long as Kai spreads her legs, you'll be between them!" Even though Aine stood to cover his mouth with her hand – everybody heard what he said.

Kai blushed furiously and threw some bread at Sakuya who just caught it and threw it at Santa who was now smirking because Sakuya had told the truth. He just shrugged and took a huge bite out of the dinner roll while wiggling his eyebrows.

"STOP! Please I already have to hear and see the rest of you act like horny animals now you too Kai?! Ugh, when will you people ever grow up?" Sasaki complained and poured himself some more wine. "If you guys weren't so successful…" He let them know he would have dropped them in a heartbeat.

"Oh relax Sasaki. We're just having fun; you should be use to it now." Towa leaned forward and noticed that the man wouldn't meet his gaze. "Or maybe you're jealous. Did you want Kai for yourself?" There were some ohs around the table and some sage nods. That had to be the case – Sasaki wanted to be the one between Kai's legs!

Takayama laughed out loud then decided to save Sasaki from their teasing. "In either case, it's too late now for Sasaki so leave him be. But I must say this will take some getting used to." Hitoshi said with a bemused look on his face. "I never would have paired Kai up with you Santa."

"And why not? Kai is a beautiful, sexy woman. She just finally realized how hot Santa is!" Aine said a huge teasing smile on her lips. "Santa's just like these other nuts – half their brains are all about music and the other half is all about sex." Aine indicated the other members of Lucifer, a mischievous look on her face. "Now it's his turn to do outrageous things with his lady. They'll be making out on the conference room table in no time – if they haven't already!" Aine's curious eyes noted their flushed faces and fell into Sakuya laughing. "THEY HAVE!!"

"I'll make a note to have the cleaning crew disinfect the table!" Takayama said with a look of shock on his face but his eyes twinkled with humor as everyone hurt themselves laughing at the embarrassed couple.

"Oh man, this is fun but I'm worn out and I promised Yukihiko I'd spend tomorrow morning with him – I need my sleep." Yuki said standing and helping his wife to her feet.

"Yes we should all head in. You all have the morning off but there are interviews in the afternoon and Sakuya's got another rehearsal in the evening." Sasaki removed the napkin from his lap and got up. "Good work everyone, today was a really good day." He gave them a rare full smile, waved and bid them goodnight.

"I'll bring the van around Atsuro-san." Lee told the guitarist who with Santa's help was standing with Yuuka in his arms.

"Thanks." Atsuro said thanking Lee, Santa and Aine who'd readied the wheelchair for Yuuka.

Yuuka cried a little as she said goodbye to everyone. The day had been long but she'd enjoyed every minute of it and was sad to see it end. There was no way to know when it would be safe for them to all get together like this again.

Hugs and kisses and congratulations went around as they all loaded into separate vehicles and headed home for the night. Marcy was continually ignored. Lucifer knew that their ladies didn't care for her and so did nothing to mar the happy, successful day. She was the last one to leave with their tame goodbyes in her ears. They'd paid more attention to the wait staff.

"I'm going to make you all pay. I thought I could wait a little longer but the day after Sakuya's last scene…" Marcy walked to the car she'd stolen and drove away. "I think I'll save Aine for last. I want to see the misery on her face as I destroy her world. And then there's him! A Grazer's too good for me? Ha! Sakuya's perfect for me – even better than his spoiled brother. Once I have him to myself and he's finally alone in the world, Sakuya will cling to me and I'll be everything to him." She was starting to feel better as she concentrated on their future, the horrors and slights of the day were fading. In two days, her new life would begin.


"A night scene. Sakuya, you'll be leaving the Cradle after a show and heading home when our detectives show up wanting to ask you more questions only the detectives are followed by gang members of the person they're after. A firefight ensues and Sakuya just barely gets away as the detectives provide cover for him. In the script you'll go into hiding but you'll reappear at the end of the show just fine and on stage with Lucifer." Cannel looked at Sakuya with a smile then scooted forward in his chair. "That's how the script went but we made some changes." He looked from Sakuya to Aine and the others who'd come to watch Sakuya. "We want Aine in the scene too!"

Sakuya frowned then looked back at Aine who looked shocked. "I don't think so. It was different before - safer but this sounds like a stunt, she could get hurt." Just the thought of bullets, even fake ones being fired at Aine chilled his soul.

Aine moved to stand at Sakuya's side. She was shaking her head too. "I'm really not coordinated enough to do stunts." Actually I don't want Sakuya to do this either. What if he gets hurt? She touched his shoulder a worried look on her face and was grateful to feel his arm come around her.

Cannel waved his hands at them. "You don't have to be! We've already found stunt doubles for you guys." He grinned. "We just need your faces and a few lines – mostly things like 'run', 'get down', 'Aine' and 'Sakuya'!" He stood up holding out a hand for Aine. "Let me walk you through it."

It was a very rough set yet again in Tokugawa's studio made with a few fake walls and boards up to represent the street outside of the Cradle. It was really simple like Cannel had said. The two of them exited the club hand in hand heading for a motorcycle when they detectives stepped out of the shadows wanting to talk to them and from there things happened quickly. Dean explained it was their reactions they were after – the anger, fear and shock then the determination to save each other and escape.

"We won't even be using blanks. With CG effects, we can avoid all that. Once you guys reach the bike and get on, you look back with fear then Sakuya takes off and we see the wind streaming through your hair – end of scene. What do you say? Wanna give it a try?"

Aine and Sakuya looked at each other. It sounded exciting. Their doubles would do the ducking, running and taking off on the bike. They would just have to get on it. "Okay." The couple said together.

Because they rehearsed their actions for hours the night before and did a couple of dry runs, the day of, the actual filming was done in only two takes. Sakuya and Aine, more Sakuya than Aine again did a bit of improvisation. Not able to resist the lure of the motorcycle, Sakuya took off with a surprised Aine clinging to him at the end of the scene. Proud of themselves they stayed to watch some actual stunts with actors and stuntmen being blown up, cars catching fire and plenty of choreographed fights. Morning was near when Lucifer and Ladies finally left. Their first appearance in a television drama was now over and it had been a hell of an experience but little did they know that a sample of real hell was coming their way.


Maria yawned in the backseat of the luxury car. She'd only gotten a few hours sleep since she'd been there last night outside of the Cradle watching Aine become a TV star. It made her giggle knowing that while it had been fun, Aine realized that acting wasn't something she wanted to do. She already had her dream job. "Did you enjoy watching the filming too Shinji?"

Shinji smiled into the rearview mirror. "I did Maria-san. It was a first for me, for many of us. This job has been a lot more fun than others. You guys know how to enjoy life." Working for Lucifer had been fun. They hadn't forgotten the danger or their duty but for most of them guarding Lucifer and their women had been more like hanging out with friends than work.

This made her smile. "Thank you but it's easy since we all love each other. Sorry about making you get up so early but this get-together isn't something I wanted to miss. All the women in my family get together every month. We cook and eat and talk, mostly we just enjoy each other's company. With us soon leaving for London, this may be the last girls' day for me for a while so I really didn't want to miss it." Maria explained. "I'm afraid this won't be much fun for you listening to a bunch of women laugh and talk about men." Maria warned him.

"I don't know I might learn something!" Shinji joked. "Don't worry Maria-san, I don't mind. I grew up in a house full of women; it will be like old times. I'll stay quiet and out of the way." He promised with a smile.

Maria nodded. "Thanks but be careful, I have a lot of pushy aunts and single cousins." She giggled as he moaned. Obviously he'd been hounded by matchmakers before. Since he was so good to her son and doing such a great job, Maria promised herself that she'd do her best to protect him.


"I'll be home soon. Would you like me to stop and pick up dinner? Oh really? The men are cooking tonight? Otou-san too?" Maria laughed and hoped she'd get back to the Todo estate in time to see that. "Yes we had a great time and Shinji got a few numbers and a date with Botan! She would not take no for an answer." Maria laughed as she told how her cousin hadn't left Shinji's side the whole time. "Yes. Yes. Okay, we're about forty-five minutes away. I love you too Yuki, kiss the little man for me." Maria with a tender smile on her face closed her cell phone. "I'm afraid you'll be teased when we reach the house. Sorry I couldn't resist." She stretched feeling tired but in a good way.

Shinji just shook his head. There really had been no way to turn the girl down not that he minded, Botan was quite beautiful. "Nothing new but I can also brag about it too." He laughed along with Maria. Shinji liked seeing her this way – happy. Before the filming of the TV show started she'd been full of tension and fear but these last few days, whether it was because he and the other guards were around or because the whole group had been together or maybe it was the excitement of the of the TV show, Maria-san had let go of the tension.

They were still passing through the city. Maria had given Yuki a rough estimate of the time since traffic was never predictable but hopefully it wouldn't take long to get home, she was really tired. After last night and then the day with her relatives, she was pooped. Settling back into the seat, Maria closed her eyes and decided to catch a quick nap but before five minutes had gone by, the sound of metal smashing into metal and tires screaming against the pavement had her eyes popping open. "What is it?!" Maria had to catch the seat in front of her as Shinji brought the car to an abrupt halt.

Shinji cursed to himself. What the hell? People should really learn how to drive, now it's going to take even longer to get Maria-san home. A cargo truck had just run a red light and hit a car in the intersection directly before them. It and the car were completely blocking the road preventing them from going anywhere. He looked for a way to turn around. He wasn't worried about leaving the scene, there were plenty of people around to help out and give reports to the police. Shinji's only responsibility was Maria-san and getting her back to her husband safely.

"Just a wreck, I'll find us a way around." He tapped his GPS to look for a different route all the while putting the car in reverse. They only got about two feet when another car rammed them from behind. "Shit!" Shinji saw the truck driver and the other person from the car get out and head their way – neither one was harmed and both carried weapons. Looking in the rearview mirror he saw all four doors on the garishly painted car behind them open and four guys get out. Shinji reached under the dash and touched another button then opened the glove compartment.

"Oh my God, what's going on? Shinji – Shinji what should we do?! Maria could see them, two men in front of them and four behind. That was way too many people. Why is this happening? I never expected something like this! Marcy was supposed to just… Is this Marcy's doing?! Is this because of what I said to her?!

The sound of metal sliding over metal caught Maria's attention. Shinji had a gun. He just – he just chambered a round? How do I even know that?! He turned to face her. "Call the police Maria-san. I'm getting out to confront them. I'll stall them for as long as I can. I want you to get out the weapons I gave you, get on the floorboard and wait for the police. Help will be here soon." He spoke as calmly as possible looking into her frightened face

Maria shook her head eyes twice their normal size. "No." She whispered.

"Yes. It will take some extreme force to hurt this car – you will be safe but I can't just let them attack us. I'll hold them off. This is what I was trained for remember?" Shinji saw the panic in her eyes. This was a surprising development that no one had expected but he had to act now or something really bad could happen. "You want to go home don't you?"

Maria inhaled sharply. My husband and child are cooking me dinner. Yukihiko's too young to be without his Ha-ha. My own Okaa-san – I want to see her again! Yuki, my love… "I will go home." Her voice firmed as she rambled in her purse for her cell phone, taser, illegal mace and the small rod that would turn into baton capable of breaking bones. "But stay in the car – Shinji please…" Maria didn't want him hurt.

Shinji touched her shoulder. "I'll be fine. Don't forget, I've got a date with your cousin coming up. Now do as I say!" There was a loud crash as a lead pipe hit the windshield. Shinji unlocked the door, opened it quickly but hit the lock button once more before he even got one leg out. The door was locked, Maria as safe as possible behind glass and metal. He had to make sure no harm came to her.

Maria watched for a second as Shinji placed his back against the side of the car and pointed his gun at the men in front of the car. She slipped off the seat and onto the floor then dialed 999. Maria had to get up off the floor long enough to see out so she could tell the police where they were but as she did a face was suddenly pressed against the window right next to her. It was a young man. Maybe he was even a year or so younger than she but one half of his face was tattooed and he had crazed look in his eye. The other three men showed up and began rocking the car once they realized they couldn't get in it. She was scared and couldn't speak as the men yelled and threatened her and began to beat on the windows with pipes and bats. When that didn't even dent the windows, Maria started breathing again but then she screamed. The tattooed guy stood back from the car and aimed a gun at her.

Maria scrambled back down in the floorboard and covered her head as one, two, three, four shots slammed into the glass. Her heart beat loudly inside her head. All she could do was breathe, tremble and listen to her heart. Thankfully no thoughts of rape and torture entered her head or it would have surely paralyzed her. No, she kept thinking of Yukihiko and Yukifumi. Her family – her life. Maria loved them so much, too much to give up without a fight.

There were more gunshots and she heard Shinji's voice yell out in pain. There was screaming and running going on outside the car. In the distance, she heard sirens. Help was coming; she just had to hold out until then. A fifth shot had the window finally cracking. Someone was now banging on it and bits of glass were raining down on her.

Maria charged the taser and held it in her left hand. In her right hand was the can of mace. It wasn't the normal stuff sold to civilians but military grade. She'd been scared to carry any of the weapons Shinji had given her in case the baby had gotten a hold of it but Shinji and Yuki had insisted. Now she was glad. Maria was ready to attack - she was just waiting on the jerk with the gun. The glass broke apart violently and as the laughing young man stuck his ugly face in the window – Maria sprayed the mace down his throat!


Yuki watched as his son carefully tore up the lettuce for the salad. His Otou-san was cooking the rice and fixing the vegetables while he was in charge of cooking the fish and soup. Always it had been Noh training and rehearsals that brought him and his Otou-san together and what had ultimately broke them apart. This was something new. Yuki cooked at home when he had the time but doing so with his Otou-san was certainly not something that had ever happened before. When the Noh master had found the two of them in the kitchen he'd been surprised – extremely surprised. It had been an awkward moment while Yuki tried to think of something to say, to explain but there was no explanation, he just wanted to cook dinner for his wife and spend some quality time with his son.

Yukihiko had solved the problem by asking his Ojii-san to help them. He had to hide a smile as he remembered his Otou-san's flabbergasted reaction. But Todo-sama had recovered quickly – and actor had to think on his feet – and quickly accepted. Yuki had had to teach him how to work the rice cooker but now the three of them were working fairly well together. Things should be ready about the time his wife arrived.

Suddenly there was music playing. Traditional Japanese music filled the kitchen. "A little culture is good for us all." His Otou-san said. Todo-sama didn't necessarily dislike the music his son played but figured while in his home, Yuki should listen to something other than rock.

"Yes it is. I often listen to this station after a long day in the studio. It's a good way to relax." Yuki nodded surprising his Otou-san then the two shared a companionable smile.

Another fifteen minutes went by before the music was interrupted. It was a news bulletin about an accident that seemingly turned into a gang war in the middle of downtown Tokyo. The report said that shots were being fired and black sedan was caught up in the middle of it.

"Maria…I hope they haven't got caught in that. I'd better warn her." Yuki said wiping his hands and reaching for his phone.

"Ha-ha?" Yukihiko asked for his mother as he stood up in his chair done preparing the lettuce.

Just as he was about to dial the phone, it rang. A cold chill ran down Yuki's spine as the number for their security firm appeared on the phone's screen. At the same time his bodyguard, Daisuke who'd been outside walking the grounds burst into the house yelling. "Yuki-sama!"

A sharp pain went through his chest as he automatically answered the phone. "Moshi-Moshi?" His voice was full of dread and he couldn't take his eyes off Yukihiko. His son knew something was wrong and his little features were screwed up with worry. Not even the massively built Daisuke and his thundering feet could pull away his gaze from his tiny child, his one true connection with the woman he loved.

"Todo-sama…your wife, we weren't able to prevent... …Your wife – her car's been attacked. We're not sure what's happening…we don't know – well we fear that one or both of them has been shot."