CHAPTER FIFTY-FOUR
Higashiyama Event Center
Uedayama, Nagoya
Japan
November 18, 2006
The party was indeed set up using the entire complex. All the buildings were being used. Instead of all the food in one place like it was two weeks earlier, the food was in various buildings around the complex. Tomoko explained that many in their family tended to settle near the food, but with the food spread out, that meant relatives will also be spread out, and roaming to get to the various food. Inside a couple of the buildings were musicians. Inside the tea house, which had various wagashi, tea and coffee, there were several geisha and maiko who came with Masami from Kyoto. They played traditional instruments, did tea ceremonies and played games with the guests. Inside one of the buildings was a band who played traditional music but with a modern touch and original rock songs that had elements of traditional Japanese music. Their instruments, including the traditional ones were electronic. In the pavilion was a regular party band playing favorites from Japanese, American and UK bands. Set up on one side of the pond were taiko drummers putting on a show when they played. When guests arrived through the entrance pagoda, they were greeted by a koto player. Once all the guests had arrived, the woman moved to a spot near the bridge.
There was also a magician and a couple of street entertainers who wandered around and stopped to entertain groups of guests.
Tomoko had gone all out for the event. The lighting was even more incredible than the first time they were there. One building was set up as a game center with a couple of purikura photo booths and popular games found in game centers around Japan for children and adults alike to enjoy. Inside most of the buildings were event lighting to enhance the decorations.
Fujiokas, Chiyoshis and some family friends were all over the Park, everyone having a great time. Hitoshi's and Kyoshii's daughter was there from San Francisco with her family, and also Hajime's twins, Kayoko and Shiinichi had arrived earlier that day from Chicago with their families. Dee was escorted around the area, sometimes with Ryo and/or Bikky, by Saburo, Sakura and even at times, Ryoichi. When he was in one place with Ryo, Bikky, Carol and the twins, most times also having Dafydd and Momo, some of his other siblings or Akira and/or Sakura, other relatives would come over and join in for a while. Bikky and Kenny were almost inseparable, while Carol had Ayaka and Mami as her constant companions.
Dee and Ryo had been able to talk to all Dee's relatives during the night so far. With everything going on, it was hard to stay in one place like it was during the party their first night in Nagoya. For one thing, since different types of food were set up in several of the buildings, Dee knew he would be hitting up each of them. Akira also seemed to enjoy meeting more of Dee's family. He especially loved when she met the rest of the family from Osaka. Despite the time difference, Akira or Sakura opened a video call with Maria while they were with Dee and introduced her to many of Dee's family in Japan. Maria should have been sleeping, but she admitted she was so excited, she couldn't sleep anyway and had no problem being up hours earlier than her usual. She promised that she would get some sleep later, but for now she was loving getting to be part of the party.
At one point, while Dee was getting some onigiri, Ryoichi came over with some men. His grandfather introduced him to his executive staff at GPN. Dee made pleasant talk with the men for a while until Sakura came over with Ryo and rescued him. Sakura and Ryo had Darin and Ryoko with them. Before leaving the executives, the men took a few minutes complimenting the infants. Sakura led them to a table set up near the pond by the bridge. Listening to the tranquil tones of the koto, they sat down for a while. Hitoshi came over with Mie and her husband, Akihiro, carrying plates with some food on them. Takehiro also came over and sat down for a while. Once again, other members of the family came over to join them.
Dee and Ryo finally met one of Kennosuke's sons, who was on vacation in San Diego when Dee first met the family. Itsuki introduced his very American looking husband, Oscar Thompson. The young couple were married the previous June but finally had a chance for a honeymoon. They combined the time in San Diego between honeymooning and Itsuki getting to meet his American in-laws. Oscar's mother was Japanese, and his father was American military who decided to settle in Iwakuni after retiring from the Army. Oscar was born in Iwakuni. Despite his Japanese mother and his being born in Japan, Oscar did not look Japanese at all, including having hazel brown eyes.
They also met Saburo's nephew Ryo and his 7-month pregnant husband Hiroto. Ryo was Waotaka's son. Waotaka was Saburo's younger brother. They talked to Ryo and Hiroto, Dee seeming amused that he now had both a husband and a cousin named Ryo. It was Ryo who pointed out that his name was really Randy, but thanks to Dee was better known by his middle name, which made everyone around them laugh. Akira added that she was thankful to Dee because she always felt her grandson was more a Ryo than a Randy but respected her daughter and son-in-law too much to push in having Ryo's parents switch his first and middle names. Ryo's mother and father did not mind Akira and the rest of Ryo's Japanese family calling him Ryo. They claimed both were his name, and sometimes his mother called him Ryo.
Two hours into the party, the band at the pavilion stopped playing and the karaoke machine was turned on. Naoki found Dee with Kennosuke's daughter, Karin, who came in from Osaka with Hitoshi's family along with her twin sister, Ami and Ami's husband.
"Dee, it's time to get ready and do our song," Naoki said with a huge grin. "Dafydd is rounding up the rest of us."
Dee looked at Ryo and Karin. "You two okay here?" he asked.
"Yes, of course," Ryo replied. "Go and do your thing with your brothers and sisters." He smiled at Dee.
"If this is what I think it is, this is going to be fun," Karin stated, smiling. "It'll be the first time all nine of you will do a number."
"Even better than ever," Naoki stated. "Thanks to Ryo's family and their karaoke time at parties. Dafydd told us all about it."
"Have fun," said Ryo. "We'll have video ready."
Karin laughed with glee as Dee went off with his brother to join the rest of their siblings. "All of Saburo's and Yoshio's children do special karaoke on special occasions. Like parties for their birthdays and anniversaries. It is always very fun to watch, but it looks like they are planning something very special," she said to Ryo.
"As you said, this is the first time all nine of Saburo's children will be together for a song, and while Dee knows who his other father is, he has also accepted Yoshio as his father," Ryo stated. "I'm thinking this is also going to be the first of many songs all nine will be doing together."
Karin squeezed Ryo's arm and laughed again. "Oh, I do hope you are right. Does that mean you will be returning for birthdays?"
"For Dee's immediate family, definitely, but we will try to make it for others," Ryo replied.
"Speaking of, you do know Ayaka's birthday is coming up soon. Perhaps if you are in still in Japan, you can come to Nagoya for the day. I will be here, too. We always make time for Uncle Saburo's family, as they do for ours."
"I would imagine so since your father and Saburo are twins." Ryo looked thoughtful. "Just as I'm sure will be the same between my family with Dee and Dafydd's. As for Ayaka's birthday, I'm sure if we were invited, Dee would make sure we get there. We know when her birthday is because my cousin made sure we had important dates for everyone in the family when Dee and Dafydd first met."
Karin started to laugh as Takahiro joined them. Having heard Ryo's reply, Takehide said, "Don't expect invitations. Invitations are for those who are not family. Family is always welcome, so no need to invite. Those who can make it, do. No RSVP necessary. Usually parties for family in Nagoya are here on the actual birthday. If it will be somewhere else or another day, someone will send out a family text a week before the day. For Ayaka's birthday, it usually starts off with Saburo's family going to see a special birthday show for her, and then they come here to meet the rest of the family who is attending for a party."
"That's good to know," Ryo said. "Yes, I'm sure we can make it to Nagoya even for the day."
"I'm glad. I'll make sure to let Saburo know he can definitely include your family on the guestlist for the show. I know Ayaka would be thrilled to have Dee here for her 21st birthday. It would mean very much to her," Takahiro stated.
Karin nodded her head with vigor. "Oh yes, she would love it so much. She is so thrilled to have Dee in the family now, that if Dee was here for her birthday would be the greatest gift she could get."
"Sounds like I'm going to make sure we get Dee back here," Ryo said.
"It looks like you and your family are enjoying the party," Takahiro stated with a smile.
"Very much so. I can't believe Dee has so many relatives, and it is a bit tricky getting to talk to everyone here, but we pulled it off somehow," Ryo replied and laughed. "It's pretty amazing that all these people are here for Dee. He's a little overwhelmed, but in a good way."
"I don't blame him," Takahiro said. "I know Saburo is the same, because it means much to him that almost all of the family came here today, even from great distances."
"I know my father-in-law was shocked when he saw Kiyoko, Thomas and her family here," Ryo said. "He could not believe they all came here from San Francisco to welcome Dee into the family. And Hajime's twins with their families from Chicago. It's wonderful."
"I'm sure you had your share of welcomes too," Karin stated with a grin.
"Oh yes. This family has been wonderful in making me and Bikky also feel very welcome. And even Carol," Ryo said. "And of course, the twins. I've hardly seen them since we got here. It should worry me, but I know they are in the hands of loving, doting family. We'll get them back at the end of the night."
"Hopefully you will," Chiasa joked as she joined them, holding Darin. "I'm so in love with your little ones. I can't get enough holding them."
"Where's Ryoko?" Ryo asked, grinning proudly.
"She's with Hailey," Chiasa replied. "Hailey took her from Luna. I managed to get this little one away from Uncle Ryoichi." Hailey was Kiyoka's 20-year daughter, who also joined her parents for the trip to Nagoya from San Francisco for the party. The next day, they were going to Osaka in the afternoon for a week to spend time with Kiyoka's fathers. The morning, they intended to spend more time with Dee and his family.
Ryo had to grin more. He did notice during the day that Dee's grandfather loved to hold Darin and Ryoko as much as Dee's grandmother. The man seemed to be in good enough of a mood that day. Ryo discovered that Ryoichi Fujioka did indeed have a sense of humor and was pretty good with the wit too. Dee's grandfather had a warm, and very infectious laugh. Until that day, Ryo would never have believed it. Even Dee looked startled the first time he heard his grandfather laugh and then started to grin. Not even Dee was immune to the laugh. And they were hearing it a lot that day as Ryoichi mingled with all the family that he was currently the patriarch of. He did give most of his attention to Dee, Ryo, Bikky and the twins, and Carol too.
Combined with the all the well-wishing relatives, some seeing each other for the first time in a while, especially the group from San Francisco, who were having a great time, and the party itself, which Tomoko really went all out for, Ryo was enjoying himself. Even better, his grandmother, his uncles and aunts and Tsubasa were there. He really did love Dee's father and grandmother for thinking of him and extending an invitation for some of his family to join them in Nagoya. The Naming Ceremony was an emotional one for his grandmother. She had wished for one, but between the lack of Shinto shrines in New York, and not wanting to insult Dee's mother and even Dee, she settled for a very general version of the ceremony in a park close to home. When the ceremony was mentioned during his talks with her, he knew she wished to be in attendance, but he did not dare push too much yet with Dee's newfound family by asking if his family could be part of the celebrations. He was so glad and thankful that Sakura decided that Ryo's grandmother and some of his family be with them that day.
Currently his grandmother was standing off to the side of the pavilion while final preparations for karaoke went on at the nearby stage. She was talking to Takahiro, Hitoshi and Kyoshii and seeming to have a wonderful time, if her laughter and smiles were to judge by. His aunt and uncle were mingling somewhere with some of Dee's relatives, and Tsubasa was pulled into the game center building by Bikky, Kenny, Aya and Kenta.
It all would have been perfect, if only Dafydd and Dee were able to give more than the obligatory smile and response to Ryoichi. Despite understanding why Ryoichi had done what he did, Dee and Dafydd still felt hurt over their grandfather knowing Dee was the missing Fujioka since the beginning of the year and felt a little manipulated. Ryo really couldn't blame them. He found it hard to give more himself. Saburo was just a little more responsive, but Ryo could sense it was more out of Japanese obligation than real interest in actually forgiving his father for what he found out the previous evening. From the talk Dee and Dafydd had with their father, Saburo also understood but still felt hurt not being told months ago that his son was alive and living in New York.
Sakura was also still mad at her husband, but she was also aware she had a marriage to protect, and despite how betrayed she felt by Ryoichi's actions, she still loved her husband, and decided to find a way to get through her hurt. His doting on her during the day had to help too. Dee and Ryo were expecting at least one or two Tom Jones songs being sung by Ryoichi, and they weren't the only ones. Everyone who knew there was a rift between Ryoichi and Sakura expected it of him, because they knew Sakura certainly was expecting it. Despite all the man's faults, one thing Ryo had to give credit to Ryoichi for was that the man did love his wife. He could have showed that love even more by extending his knowledge to his wife, but that one mistake, no matter how wrong it was, could not discount his feelings for his wife. The elder couple was going through a rough patch, but they would get through it. Perhaps even love each other more from it. Ryo put hope that when he hit such patches with Dee, that their love would pull them through. They both certainly had enough people around them proving that love did last a lifetime. Besides, Fujiokas just did not divorce. It seemed to be an unspoken thing in the family. Once married, no matter how rough things might get, you find a way to work it out and love each other. Even if they did not go by the name Fujioka, Dee was a Fujioka and that now included him and his marriage to Ryo. Good thing they both liked to remind each other that they were stuck with each other forever, because since finding themselves as part of the Fujioka family, that was exactly what they were – stuck with each other. Not that it would ever be a bad thing, because Ryo had no intention of leaving Dee, and he had no doubt Dee felt the same.
Dafydd and Dee found a few minutes during the party to discuss their grandfather, and Ryo was included. He mostly just listened and nodded his head in agreement. When asked, he did give his honest opinion that their grandfather was a first-class ass. True, Ryoichi was under Imperial orders not to say anything until Dee and Dafydd met on their own, but he was still an ass when he finally had the chance to be face to face with his grandson, and then just added with all the gaijin comments. Dee and Dafydd weren't buying the Prophecy Twins story. Or more they were open to the story itself, but that was all it was. And all those people who were putting more weight in it than what it was needed a serious reality check, current Emperor of Japan included. They knew Sakura, Saburo and Yoshio felt the same. The two brothers felt like they were sudden pawns in some Japanese drama and resented the implications.
However, how they felt about their grandfather was not going to affect the day. They were just attentive enough to their grandfather when he approached them not to bring attention that there was trouble. Only those who were part of it knew. They had a feeling that Takahiro and Kennosuke felt something was off, but they were Ryoichi's and Saburo's twins respectively, and shared deep twin bonds. Dee and Dafydd decided that they would support their grandmother in making amends with her husband, because it would be wrong to wish for their marriage to fall apart. They also understood their father opening a little more to Ryoichi, because Saburo was Ryoichi's son, and it was the Japanese way to respect and honor parents. It did not mean Saburo wasn't still hurt, and they would be there for their father as he would be for them.
Dee and Dafydd felt no such compulsion to give the same honor and respect to Ryoichi just because it was the Japanese way. They did agree to give just a little, but more out of respect to the rest of their family than to Ryoichi. It wasn't very Japanese, but then Dee pointed out that maybe it was their Welsh side to blame, which made Dafydd laugh and agree. Ryo had a feeling if Momo was there, she would have gone into shock. Maybe not, the more Ryo thought about it. Since meeting Dee, Dafydd was slowly becoming more accepting of his Welsh side, but without giving up any of his Japanese-ness.
Dee was still accepting that he was half-Japanese and half-Welsh, and not American at all. He was not born in New York City, but in Nagoya. He was still finding a way to balance the two nationalities he now knew he was along with his upbringing in the streets of New York City. Thankfully Dee came back from his time in college with Japanese customs he had become accustomed to and maintained some of them all the years since his return to New York. It was also a damn good stroke of luck that he learned Japanese from a child and spoke it as fluently as if he was raised in Nagoya.
The MC hired for the party came on the stage and announced that karaoke was now open, to the loud applause and cheering of the family and friends.
Ryo noticed his uncles come into the pavilion area with Saburo, Yoshio and Kennosuke. Not far behind them were Hoshi and Moriko with Carol, Mami, Saburo's sister Masami and Kennosuke's wife. Tsubasa also came into the pavilion area with Luna, Ken and Sam. Dee and his siblings were nowhere in sight. The first one to be called up to the stage was Hitoshi, who opened the night of karaoke with a song by Luna Sea.
Saburo was called up second, and of course, he did a TUBE song. Yoshio did L'Arc-En-Ciel. Masami did a song by Ayumi Nakamura. Carol, Mami and a couple of Dee's cousins close to their age did "Yume wa Nando mo Umare Kawaru" by TKY52. The group of girls were the only ones who actually did some dance steps as they sang, looking like an idol group. The dresses the girls wore for the party helped with the image. Whoever was handling the spotlights even joined in, creating lighting to enhance the performance. Ryo was glad he was filming it with his new camera from Saburo. When they finished, even though he couldn't see her, he knew Ayaka was somewhere near the stage, because he heard her cheering. In fact, she most likely wasn't alone because Ryo also heard Dee's, Dafydd's and the rest of their siblings join in with the cheering from somewhere off to the side of the stage.
When Saburo made his way back to their group, he had Masami, Sakura and Ken and Eriko who came in from Fukouka, laughing as he also cheered them on. Ken and Eriko were also cheering the girls, and Sakura and Masami decided to join in. Ryo was also cheering them on. Takahiro joined their group and started to move them closer to the stage, where Akira stood with Bikky, Kimi, Eri and Kyoshii. Momo and Chiasa came over, with Tatsuya and Kiyoshi in tow, who were jumping up and down in excitement from the singers.
"They want to do a song," Momo laughed, "but they only know most of a chorus for most songs. And sing it over and over."
Yoshio started to laugh. "Do you know how many times I got a chorus stuck in my head thanks to them."
Saburo nodded. "And usually with the wrong words that they think are being said."
"You have that problem in Japanese too?" Ryo asked as he laughed.
As the Japanese around them nodded, including Ryo's family, Chiasa said, "And not just Japanese songs."
"We're hoping their English will improve listening to American and British music, but it gets all garbled up," Momo said with a sigh. "But not as bad as the Korean songs that are big here."
Ryo started to laugh. "They'll get it eventually."
"Why not let them sing some of the children's songs that they should know?" Akira asked. "I know there has to be a karaoke version of one or two."
"There is," Momo replied, "but not for a party this size. At small family gatherings, yes, but not for all these people please. Besides, Dafydd said he'll bring them up and do a song with them. At least Dafydd should get most of the words right."
"Oh, that should be so sweet," Masami said. "Dafydd really is a good father."
"Tell that to him, and he says, he tries," Momo said and laughed again. "But I agree. He loves those boys to bits."
"Speaking of bits, Ryo, where are yours?" Kyoshii asked.
"Hopefully not in the bag of someone leaving the party early," Ryo said. "I did see the twins in passing recently, and Bikky is right here. Where's Kenny?" he asked his son.
"He's playing games with SJ," Bikky said. "They'll be along soon."
Akira hugged Ryo's arm. "That is a far step from when I was in New York this summer. I'm so happy for you. I'm guessing that would also be Dei's answer?"
"It would be, Obāsan," Ryo replied with a smile.
As Carol and the girls made their way through the crowd toward Ryo and the group he found himself with, the next person called up was Ryoichi. Dee's grandfather hastily made his way toward their group and gave Ryoko to Sakura. "Please take the chibi. I am not going to go up with her, and I see her father is busy getting events on film, as he should, while her other father is destination unknown with the rest of his siblings." He smiled at Sakura.
Ryo blinked as he realized that Ryoichi picked up on Dee's referring to the twins as chibis instead of the usual akachan Dee's family used for babies. Sakura giggled. "He says that Daisuke is correct. That they are so cute, they are chibis," she explained. "Besides, this little one and her brother are special. I think they do deserve a different name at times." She smiled at Ryo as she cuddled Ryoko.
By the time the music for Ryoichi's song started, Sakura had given Ryoko to Akira and watched her husband, who had already given her eye contact. It was not surprising to Ryo that the elder Fujioka sang, "She's A Lady," as he looked at his wife, even at times making her blush and giggle like a schoolgirl.
Yeah, even after all those years of marriage, and having some issues, those two were really in love. It made Ryo feel good.
It was also the first English song sung for the night. With the original song sung by the very Welsh Sir Tom Jones. It was kinda fitting, considering the man had 2 Welsh grandsons, even if he tried his best to ignore his grandsons' Welsh side.
Ryoichi finished his song, blowing a kiss toward his wife, making Ryo smile as his grandmother-in-law blushed again. She lowered her head but lifted her eyes toward her husband with a small smile. It was small, but the smile it produced from Ryoichi told Ryo that this was her special smile for only her husband.
Ryoichi came off the stage and joined them. He hugged his wife and kissed her cheek, whispering in her ear, which made her smile and blush more.
Yeah, they were going to be all right. Ryo had no doubt, even with a man as difficult as Ryoichi Fujioka.
Several other relatives came up to sing, a couple picking American hits from 80's rock bands. The older relatives who came up to sing picked older enka songs, but a couple sang American songs from the 1950's and 1960's.
The MC came on the stage and announced, "This is a very exciting moment. For the very first time, all nine children of Fujioka Saburo-san are going to do a song." He turned to the side of the stage and bowed as the relatives clustered in the pavilion started to applaud.
Yoshio hugged his husband with a huge smile. "We knew something was going to happen," he said to Saburo.
Saburo nodded his head. "I did too but if I thought about it before now, I would be much too excited."
Ryo came to stand next to his fathers-in-law. "I knew because I had to let Dee go off to practice today and hold the phone as he practiced with the help of facetime during the week."
Sakura also joined them, holding her phone up. "Maria," she said, "are you ready to see this? All of Saburo's children are going to do a number for him."
"Yes I am. Saburo, you must be very excited. I know I am for you," Maria said.
"Very much so," Saburo said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Dee and his siblings came on the stage all smiles and waving, much like an idol group. To Ryo's surprise, they had all changed into matching clothes. The women's outfits looked like something Ayaka wore onstage with NGY52, and the men wore black pants, colored shirts and jackets, coordinating with their sisters. They all took their spots with Dee, Dafydd and Ayaka in the center with 3 each on each side. Even more surprising, the band, who were on a break for karaoke, came back to the stage. Instead of using the karaoke machine, they were using the band.
The lights dimmed and then the first notes of "Ha Da Ka" from TUBE started as the lights came back on. The siblings sang the song, taking turns at a line of lyrics and singing the chorus together. They made the same moves as was done every time the song was done live by TUBE. At one point during the second chorus, which had slightly different words than the first, panties went flying through the air toward the singers as they sang the word "panty", making everyone watching laugh. Ryo, Carol and Bikky were among the relatives who tossed underwear toward the siblings with glee, having much fun with it. Ryo's aunts and uncles also joined in the fun, along with many of Dee's relatives. Saburo clapped his hands, laughing, and then hugged Bikky who was standing next to him. Chiasa moved closer to Saburo and Yoshio to hand them more underwear for the second time the chorus is sung.
When they were done with the song, they went right into "Oogoe Diamond", also taking turns with the lyrics and having dance steps.
As the siblings left the stage, they all went over to their father, who met them and started hugging all his children, kissing their faces. He had tears in his eyes as he was surrounded by all nine of his children.
When Dee finally made his way to join Ryo and the rest of his family, Sakura held up her phone. "Want to say hello to your mother, Daisuke?" she asked.
Dee laughed as he looked at the phone and hugged his grandmother. "Hello Mom, joining us for karaoke time?"
"That was wonderful, Dee! I told your grandmother that you have a very musical family," Maria said.
"Yeah, know I know where I get it from," Dee said with a grin as he reached out to ruffle Bikky's hair and hugged Ryo.
"I'm glad you are having so much fun. You look really happy, Dee and that makes me happy," said Maria.
"I am. I'm having the time of my life tonight and it's all because of all my great relatives."
"Sakura promised I could watch your special song with your brothers and sisters for your father, but it is late now. Or early, depending on how you look at it."
"You've been doing that a lot, Mom," Dee stated, suddenly looking concerned.
"Oh, take that look off your face, Dee. Of course, I am. This is something wonderful, and if I can be a small part of it, I'm willing to lose a little sleep. Besides, it gives me a chance to test out the new help while I'm taking a nap during the day. So far, I am happy with the quality of care they are giving the children."
"That's good to hear. That means I stand a chance of convincing you to take a small vacation once in a while. Maybe even eventually Japan."
"We'll see, Dee. It's not like I have never seen Japan before."
Dee started to smile. "She came to Yokohama for my graduation," he explained to anyone who did not know that yet.
"I was not going to let Dee graduate from college with no family there," Maria stated. "Some of my cousins who Dee used to stay with during the summers in Ireland also were there."
Dee was grinning. "I was expecting Mother, but the Irish family was a pleasant surprise."
"I would love to talk to these cousins one day," Sakura said, smiling. "They sound like wonderful people who also gave love to my grandson and I need to thank them for it."
"I will give you their numbers in an email and let them know to expect hearing from you. They know Dee found his family and were hoping they could speak to some of his family."
Dee started to laugh more. "I wonder how Siobhan will be now that I have Shinto priests and priestesses in the family."
"Oh, this is the Wiccan cousins you mentioned," Tsukiko commented. "I want to meet them."
"Me too," said Yasu from behind them, where she stood with Takahiro and her husband.
"Most likely like that," Maria said with a laugh. "I had a wonderful time seeing parts of this wonderful party and the delightful songs you and your brothers and sister just did, but I do need to get some sleep now."
"Thanks for joining us, Mom," Dee said. "Sleep well."
"Oh, I will. I have been sleeping extra well these days knowing that your family is opposite of what we thought. Have fun with your wonderful family, Dee."
Everyone in the area said their goodbyes to Maria and then Sakura disconnected the call.
Karaoke went on for another hour. Dee got to watch his grandmother sing a beautiful old enka song, proving that Dee, his father and siblings got their ability to sing from both Ryoichi and Sakura. Ryoichi did a couple of more songs, another Tom Jones song and the other was "The Wonder of You" by Elvis Presley, making Sakura giggle and blush more. Dafydd also came up with Tatsuya and Kiyoshi and they sang "Young Man" which is the Japanese version of "YMCA". The two little boys did more jumping around than actually singing except for the chorus. Dee thought it was adorable. His siblings also got Dee to sing Daigaku Dudes version of "It's Gonna Be Me". When the last karaoke song was done, the band came back to play for the rest of the party. A last call went out for food and drink. The party was winding down. Dee, Ryo, Bikky and Carol were sitting at a large table set out near the pond under the paper lanterns along with Saburo, Yoshio, Akira, Sakura, Ryoichi, Dafydd, Momo, Ayaka, Ryo's aunts and uncles, Tsubasa and the rest of the Fujioka siblings and significant others.
Dee figured one of the good things about this party from the last is that Tomoko and Kimi had a full staff this time, including their two other event coordinators. Tomoko and Kimi were fully able to enjoy the party, mingling with relatives, spending time with Dee and his family. A couple of times, something wasn't going as Tomoko expected and she went over to quickly handle the situation and return to just being a party guest.
Nearby, they had Ryoko and Darin in a travel crib. The babies were cuddled together under a soft, but warm, Little Twin Stars blanket and were sleeping peacefully. Dee should have been amazed, considering it wasn't a quiet party, but Ryo reminded him about the party in Tokyo, and the first one in Nagoya. When Darin and Ryoko got tired, they would sleep no matter what was going on. It was an even longer day with the Naming Ceremony earlier in the day and being handled by many doting relatives all day long. The poor things were conked out and sleeping through the end of the party. It helped that the crib came from his fathers' shop and was extra cushiony and comfortable. Dee mused that if he had the opportunity and could fit in the small crib, he would probably sleep well in it too. Hell, he was tired enough. It was a long day for everyone, but they were all still riding on the wave of emotions the day bought. Tomoko and Kimi had Minori in a similar crib set next to Darin's and Ryoko's. All the other young children who were at the party were also asleep. Tomoko had one of the reception houses closed early and had futons set out so the children could sleep until their parents were ready to leave for the night.
Some of the older family started to come over to their table, to take their leave. Most of those who lived further would be leaving in the morning, while others were staying until later in the night, hoping to spend a little more time with Dee. For many of them it was their first time meeting him, but also because of where they lived, would be their last while the Laytner-MacLeans were in Japan. The Americans who came to the party were sticking around to visit with their parents for a week but had hopes of doing something with Dee and his family the next day.
Tsukiko had slipped off somewhere not long ago. Everyone else enjoyed listening to the band as they finished the last of their food and drinks as family came over to take their leave. Except for designated drivers, everyone was at least buzzed by sake, plum wine and Japanese beer, some even having a mixed cocktail or two. Much to Dee's amusement, Koji was more than a little drunk, and was even funnier than Dee discovered him to be earlier that day. Dee could admit that Koji would probably be the one he was least closest to of his siblings, but during the day, they did at least establish a rapport binding them as brothers. He could see that it had made Saburo and Yoshio very happy to see, considering their first meeting in Ise.
Dee also noticed that Saburo and Nobu had bonded that day, with both of them being TUBE fans. They were already hoping to one day go to a show together, along with whatever family they could get to join them. Saburo wished aloud that he hoped he could see the band one day with Dafydd and Dee, at the least of his children. Dafydd had seen them many times, always joining his father to the shows, and sometimes one or more of his siblings would join them. Nobu countered, wishing for once, he could have Ryo with him at a show, along with Tsubasa, who most times accompanied his father. Dee and Ryo realized that they would have to plan their summer trip to Japan at a time when TUBE was playing.
With most of the older relatives having gone home or to hotels for the night, Dee sensed that things were nearing the end. It was a long day and he caught himself yawning a few times. He caught Dafydd nodding off not long ago. Conversation was winding down and not for lack of anything to talk about. They were just a happy but very tired group at the time.
Tsukiko came rushing back, exclaiming that the band was about to do a special song. She was tugging on Saburo and Dee, saying they should be closer to the stage. As Dee started to stand at his sister's insistence, he reached over to tug Dafydd into standing. The rest of the family also started to stand, while one of Tomoko's event coordinators came over to sit near the sleeping babies.
"Do not worry," Kimi assured Ryo as they started to move from the table. "Haruna not only works for us, but she is a friend who babysits for us sometime."
Ryo nodded his head and looked at Dee in question.
"If my sister trusts her with Minori, than I'm good with it," Dee replied.
"What are you up to, Tsukiko?" Sakura asked in curiosity.
"You'll see."
The band had already finished playing a song but waited while the family made their way closer to the stage.
Tsukiko managed to extract Dee and Dafydd apart from the others, slipping an arm through each of theirs.
"You are up to something," Dafydd accused. "What is it?"
With a huge smile, she said to her eldest brothers, "A Japanese conga line," she replied. "To a TUBE song."
"Oh." Dafydd looked at Dee.
"Can't say I ever been part of a Japanese conga line," Dee admitted.
"It's like one of the odori festival dances. Nice, simple steps, as long as everyone is touching the person in front of them," Tsukiko explained. "Also it isn't single file. At least double or triple formation."
With a wry grin, Dafydd said, "I'm not sure it's an actual thing, except in our family."
Tsukiko hugged onto Dee. "This will be the first time with you! This is huge. You and Dafydd will also lead since you are the oldest."
"Out of us kids," Dafydd said, "but Papa and Chichi are not only older but our fathers. Or even Obāsan and Ojiisan."
Dee started to laugh at that point. "Sorry. Obāsan I could see. But Ojiisan. Oh man, I would pay good money to see that."
"Ten thousand yen would get you to watch a video of one of our parties then," Tsukiko remarked with a teasing grin.
Dee stared at his sister with his mouth open, making Dafydd laugh. He pointed a finger at the impish looking woman before him. "Need some money, imōto-san?" he returned with a grin.
"No, but it won't hurt having more," Tsukiko remarked. She started to laugh with Dafydd. "You did say you would pay good money. But you can see it for free. But later. You and Dafydd get to the front so the band can start to play. They're waiting for you."
"Get Papa and Chichi behind us," Dafydd said. "And make sure Momo and Ryo are close too, please."
"Hai!" Tsukiko replied and headed off toward the others.
By then, the remaining relatives had gathered, also curious at what was going on.
Once Dafydd and Dee came to stand in front of everyone, as Tsukiko and Naoki, who was quickly recruited by Tsukiko because he was her twin, got Saburo and Yoshio in place behind Dee and Dafydd, and then behind them, not only Ryo and Momo, but Akira, Bikky and Carol, it seemed everyone suddenly realized what they were doing and the rest of the family started to line up.
Once the band saw everyone was ready they started playing "Kona Wind ni Hikarete", which seemed to be a good choice by the cheering of many in the family.
Dafydd smiled at Dee and said, "Don't worry. It's easy, follow my steps." He grabbed onto Dee's hand and looked behind him to find their fathers, also holding hands. Saburo's eyes were watery again, but he had a huge smile as he continued to cheer. Someday, the poor man will go through a day without his eyes watering, but Dee guessed it was still new to him. Besides, watching his father get teary always made Dee's eyes misty, at the least.
A second later on the first note the singer sang, Dafydd stepped forward with his right leg, going sideways a little to his right, and then followed by his left leg in the same direction. Dee went along with the first two steps and was about to step with his right foot again but noticed Dafydd's left leg go into motion first and quickly corrected his next step. And that was to it, since the third step, Dafydd's right leg went out again.
And they were off, the family dancing around the Pavilion. There was much laughing and cheering and singing along from those who knew the words, Dafydd and Dee included, along with Saburo. Dee could hear Nobu and Hoshi singing along. They weren't that far back from them. Dee figured his younger siblings decided to put the closest older family members first. He tried looking behind him several times, especially when they were making a turn, in hopes to find Bikky, because now that they were doing this, he was certain Bikky would not have been allowed to stand to the side. Not with this family. And even more than his grumpy grandfather, who actually was not really grumpy at all that day, Dee realized he really wanted to see his son dancing along with the rest of the family. Unlike the odori festival dances, Dee and Dafydd were putting in more than a little hip action, and from what Dee was able to catch as he looked back, they were not the only ones.
Halfway through the song, during the bridge, Dee and Dafydd came to a stop and faced their family, prompting everyone to sing louder, while others cheered, and when they turned around to go forward for the rest of the song, Dee discovered they were fivefold. Saburo and Yoshio joined them in the front line, and with four being an unlucky number in Japan, they brought along Sakura who managed to get between Dee and Dafydd. Dee felt a hand go around his waist from behind and turned to find Ryo was behind him and grinning as he sang along. Ryo winked at Dee and laughed with joy, making Dee laugh more than he was. Behind Dafydd was Momo with Akira between them. Bikky was next to Ryo and Tsukiko next to Momo. Carol and the rest of Dee's siblings were in the next two lines. Kennosuke, Masami, Hitoshi and to Dee's surprise, his grandfather was next, along with Hitoshi's family and some of Sakura's.
As the song came to an end, Sakura stopped them and allowed the family to surround them, no longer in steps but clapping while jumping up and down. The family let out a roar at the last note and they fell into hugs. The hugging went beyond just those in their line as other family members moved in to give hugs.
Dee started to blink as his eyes stung with tears and he was grinning like a fool as he continued to hug and be hugged by the many members of the Fujioka and Chiyoshi families. Many of them also took the opportunity to take their leave, saying good night as they hugged, and once done, moved away from the group to head toward the exit.
"What's wrong, Daisuke?" he heard Sakura ask from next to him.
Dee shook his head. "Nothing," he said. "Nah, it's everything. Everyone. I just realized that this is my family and despite the number, it's an incredibly close one. And I think that's wonderful."
With a smirk, Dafydd commented, "Just wait until you get that one or two nights a month when everyone feels they have to check in by phone and you never get a moment to yourself."
A hand came from behind Dafydd and slapped the back of his head. Dee looked behind his shocked twin and started to laugh when he found his grandfather with a huge grin on his face.
"What was that for?" Dafydd said. "That hurt. Did you have to start watching NCIS with Papa? Geez!"
Dee heard Ryo start to laugh. "Oh my God! Dee, your grandfather just Gibbs slapped Dafydd."
"With good reason," Ryoichi said. "Surely you can spare one or two nights to keep in touch with family who does not live close to you." He looked at Dee. "And you, too, should plan to do the same once you are back in New York. Open communication is very important in this family. Being Fujioka means you find the time to reach out to everyone through call or video chat at least once a month."
"You might even start to deal with it in Tokyo," Hitoshi said. "You'll be apart from all of us then, and at least I do not want to have you slip away or think your family has forgotten you."
Dee paled a little, thinking of having to be in constant communication with everyone who had shown up that day for the party, plus a few who was not able to make it, but sent their well wishes through video, hoping to meet him one day, whether in Japan or New York. It also meant having family coming to visit. Dee knew that among his immediate family, who obviously wanted to visit him in New York, but Hitoshi's daughter Kiyoko and her family intended to come to New York from San Francisco, as well as his cousins who lived in Chicago. It made sense to the rest of the family that everyone who lived in America take advantage of it. Who else out of the extended family in Japan would want to pay a visit? While in between there would be phone calls, video calls, text messages and emails. As much as Dee found he loved this family and enjoyed his time with most of the family, it was daunting to consider staying in touch with everyone on a monthly basis. In fact, it downright scared the crap out of him, because he didn't think he would be able to handle it. He already knew there would be at least text messages every other day or so with Dafydd and his fathers. Probably Ayaka too. Once a week with the rest of his siblings. He also knew his grandmother well enough that just a text won't do. For her, a text message is for when she is out, and someone wants her to pick up something, for her to remind her husband to do something, ask for directions and other things like that. It was for the little things, but to keep in touch with her would mean giving her a call or video call. Nothing less would work for her.
"It'll take a while to get used to," Saburo said, "and we understand, but do your best and in a couple of months it will be a breeze to you." His father looked at Hitoshi and smiled. "And those of us who will be at Ayaka's birthday party will see Daisuke again. Daisuke and Ryo told Ayaka they will be here and stay a couple of days."
Hitoshi smiled. "Is that so? Great, because Kiyoshii and I plan to be here for the party. So, we get to see you one more time after tomorrow. That makes me happy."
Dee smiled at his great-uncle, who Dee had already figured would be among the closer of his family. "I'm looking forward to seeing you again then, too, Uncle Hitoshi."
Sakura moved over to hug both Dee and Saburo. "I believe that this party was a success. If everyone will excuse me, I am exhausted and ready for a good night's sleep." She kissed Saburo and then Dee. "I'll leave Saburo and some of our family take you around for more sightseeing tomorrow, and then I will see you on Monday. If it's a nice day, I think we'll go to Hacho for a few hours."
"Hacho?" Bikky asked. "Isn't that the name of the miso around here?"
"It is, Bikky," Sakura replied. "And they still have a factory there. And shops to buy plenty to take back with you, including as omiyage."
"That sounds great, Obāsan," Dee said. "I think everyone back home will get some as a declaration that I finally know where I am from." He grinned at his grandmother who returned the smile. His grin grew as Ryo started to laugh. Dee hugged his grandmother. "Good night, Obāsan. We'll see you on Monday."
Tomoko, who was part of the group still surrounding them said, "I'll have them bring your car to the front, Obāsan."
"Thank you, Tomoko," said Sakura.
"Shall I also take my leave for the night and join you?" Ryoichi asked his wife.
Sakura stared at him with no expression for a moment and then with a put-upon sigh, said, "You have behaved yourself all day, and you did sing me those lovely songs. So… I'll think about it while you walk me to the car."
Dee covered the snort at what his grandmother said and his grandfather's face. It was all just too precious to him. He really did hope they would work it out soon. His grandmother did not have to like what her husband had done, but it shouldn't be the cause of ruining what was a long and happy marriage. He would feel guilty if he discovered his grandparents ever separated over it, because it was about him, and that would make it his fault. He knew through his grandmother that everyone wasn't always perfect over the years, as it sometimes is with marriage, but they stuck together and worked it out. And most important, she had said to him during their travels during a few moments together alone and talked about marriage, just because things don't seem right all the time, doesn't mean there's less love. Just misunderstanding or miscommunication. She said sometimes it took longer than others, but whatever issues there were eventually worked itself out as long as there were two partners working together and love to make it so.
That was his very own grandmother's advice on the secrets to a long and happy marriage, and he took it to heart, because he knew there would always be love between him and Ryo, and there would be difficult times. The vows they took during the handfasting in their wedding said as much, and now his grandmother had said the same. He was thankful, now that he had met her, that he had a grandmother who could give wise advice on marriage. Mother was very good at it, but she spoke from what she had saw around her, having never experienced it herself. But his grandmother had been married over 50 years to his grandfather. Dee was certain Ryoichi Fujioka wasn't the easiest person to live with, and yet she had fallen in love with him and still loved him 50 + years later. He was certain his grandmother had a library of advice for him when he needed it. That made him very happy.
After Dee's grandparents left, the rest of the family decided it was time to head home and get some sleep and said their goodbyes. After collecting the sleeping children, they headed for the front of The Park. Thankfully, Dafydd's and Momo's family car was waiting for them in a line of other family vehicles, and soon Momo was driving them back to their home.
Bikky and Carol went upstairs as soon as they got to the house, with Tatsuya and Kiyoshi trailing. Dee and Ryo took a few minutes to settle Darin and Ryoko in their crib, quickly changing them into clean diapers and kimono shirts for sleep and went back downstairs to sit with Momo and Dafydd for a nightcap. Not even a half hour later, the two couples headed upstairs to their rooms for the night.
Once inside their room, Dee and Ryo had enough energy to cuddle and nothing more.
"It was a good day," Dee said, rubbing his face on the side of Ryo's head.
"It was a great day," Ryo remarked sleepily. "I'm glad we allowed your family to have the Naming Ceremony. It made everyone in your family very happy."
"It also made some of your family very happy too. Your grandmother couldn't say enough about her great-grandchildren having an official Naming Ceremony at Hinotsuke Jingu."
Ryo chuckled softly. "Talking to her, if she had the opportunity to go to Nagoya while you were pregnant, she would have gone to the shrine to give extra prayers for your pregnancy. After all, it is the most famous of all the Carrier shines and temples in Japan."
Dee huffed out a laugh. "Ha! You said famous!"
"You and your family must be rubbing off on me," Ryo said with a shrug. "But I did do some research when I had a chance to sit down and surf the web this week, and it really is famous, even in the English sense of the word." He lifted his head and with an impish grin said, "And it's your family's shrine."
"Not really our shrine," Dee corrected. "My family has maintained it for many generations. That's all."
"Have you talked to your family?" Ryo asked amused. "Especially your grandfather and your great-aunts and uncles? They talk as if they own it."
"Yeah well, it seems the older generation of my family puts more importance on the family history, even if most of that history is unknown. Which says something. Did you meet my father and his siblings? As far as they're concerned, we're just another family in Japan who happens to have a rich CEO of a top company and a famous shrine to maintain. My father did seem surprised last night when my grandfather implied his friendship with the Emperor."
"What I see with your father's generation is a bunch of driven, hardworking people who became successful enough in their chosen fields to live comfortable, even without your grandfather's assistance here and there."
"True. I think that's what I adore about them. Despite my grandfather's and Uncle Takahiro's wealth, they are people who worked hard to succeed in their life. Dafydd might not make as much as my father, or what Tomiji will make one day after my grandfather retires, but he is head of his unit and between him and Momo, they are comfortable. Even if Dafydd thinks otherwise, thinking they'll be broke on one shopping trip." He let out a laugh.
"I heard he was always that way," Ryo said. "Which is another of the rare things that you two are opposites about. Well, until recently." With a teasing grin, Ryo added, "You find yourself a millionaire one day and suddenly you start acting like we're going to wake up the next day without a penny."
"I know money can go as quickly as it can come sometimes," Dee defended. "And I'm still not used to it, so yes we drop a load of money on something and my mind is still saying it was more than we could afford."
"Well, I'm glad we dropped a load of money on this trip. Today wouldn't have been possible if we didn't."
"Yup. 'Cause we would have been in New York right now, which is nowhere close to Nagoya," Dee quipped.
"You know what I mean, smartass." Ryo leaned over to nip Dee's nose, which made him yelp.
"Yeah, I know what you meant. And I agree." Dee pulled Ryo closer to snuggle against him. "Yes, today was a wonderful day. Our twins had a Naming Ceremony, then there was an amazing party that was a lot of fun, with just about everyone in my gigantic family in attendance. And even my grandfather made me laugh a couple of times."
"I gotta admit, I did like the Gibbs slap that he has," Ryo remarked with a laugh.
"Yeah, that made me laugh too. I know my father has it down, but I wasn't expecting it from my grandfather. I mean, that would imply that he watches American TV shows."
"Nice to know there's some human in him after all," was all Ryo said and yawned.
"True." Dee also yawned. "And on that note, I think it's time for some sleep. Tomorrow is another busy day."
"Yup. Sightseeing, joined by some of your family, and mine. It was wonderful to see Obāsan with Uncles Nobu and Takehide and Aunts Hoshi and Moriko. I'm afraid my aunts went a bit fangirls on poor Ayaka at times during the day."
"She handled it in stride, I was told. Especially since she considers your family hers. So all's good." Dee closed his eyes. "Darin and Ryo did look adorable in their outfits today."
"Yes, they did. And I found it touching that they wore the same outfits you and Dafydd wore for your Naming Ceremony."
"And the quilts were also worn by my father and Uncle Kennosuke, and my grandfather and Uncle Takahiro" Dee added. "I'm glad. I can give them something from my heritage from the beginning. Something Mother could not give me, no matter how hard she tried back then."
"At four months, Dee. Darin and Ryoko are four months old. Oh geez, and you were four months old when you lost it all until now."
Dee took a sudden deep breath. "Shit. That is something. Wow. A bit freaky, but true. Damn, I'm glad I'm so tired. I'm going to sleep now and consider it tomorrow."
With a chuckle, Ryo said, "I'm sorry. It just came to me, but I didn't mean to freak you out."
"Not freaked," said Dee. "Just weirded a little."
"Well, better get some good sleep now 'cause like you said, we have another busy day tomorrow." Ryo gave Dee a short, but lingering kiss, which Dee reciprocated. "Good night, Dee."
"Night, Ryo."
Still snuggling, they fell asleep.