CHAPTER EIGHT-THREE

Nippon Budokan

Chiyoda, Tokyo

Japan

November 19, 2006

As he promised, when Dee got a text from Ryo that they were at Budokan, walking around to look at the various booths that had just started selling, Dee came out and met everyone at the tent with the commemorative photo set up for that show. It looked very much like the one from Friday except it read "Nippon Budokan 06.12.19".

Photos this time included with Darin and Ryoko, along with Dee's young nephews and niece. Sakura made sure there was a photo of Dee, Ryo, Bikky, Darin and Ryoko, and another with Saburo, Dafydd and Nobu joining them, before various other combinations were taken, including Dee and Dafydd with Bikky, Kiyoshi and Tatsuya and one of Saburo with Dee, Dafydd, Ayaka, Jirou, Tomiji and Yoshio.

D ee managed to walk around with them for about fifteen minutes before he got a text he was needed inside again. He told his family they had about another hour before they would get a text from him to go over to the Will Call window.

When Ryo got the text and they went over to the Will Call window, instead of giving their names to someone at the window, there was a band crewmember wearing a laminate pass waiting for them. Ryo recognized him as the same one who came over to them with backstage passes on Friday night. Once again, he had laminate passes on lanyards for everyone, greeting those who were at the show Friday and asking the names of everyone else as he gave the passes. After handing them out, he lead them into the venue.

The group entered the arena at floor level and they walked right up to the barricade before the front row. To Saburo's, Nobu's, Dafydd's and Jirou's glee, TUBE was finishing their soundcheck. Dee and the rest of the Daigaku Dudes were nowhere in sight on the stage. Ryo figured they were somewhere backstage, putting on their make-up and doing whatever else they needed to get ready.

Maeda smiled and waved when he saw them approach. He came down stairs that were built on the small extension in the center of the stage. As he reached the last step, he disappeared from sight for a few seconds until he was standing in front of them. That was when Ryo noticed as the gate in the barricade was opened for them, they had to go down a couple of steps to enter the space between the stage and the barricade.

Ryo knew his uncle, Dee's father and twin brother were trying not to make fools of themselves from nerves. Ryo had to admit even he felt excited upon realizing that this very famous – and yes, Nobutera Maeda and the rest of TUBE were all very famous in Japan – singer had come from the stage to personally greet everyone. Maeda remembered all the names from those at last Friday's shows and was introduced to everyone else.

Including Darin and Ryoko, who once they were inside, the warm cover-ups were removed to reveal they were also wearing TUBE tee-shirts. Not official ones, because there were no baby shirts to be found among the merchandise. Momo had spent some of her time that afternoon taking out a set of clothing markers and two plain white onsies, and with Kiyoshi's and Tatsuya's help, made simple logo shirts. Darin was also wearing a pair of baby jeans, and Ryoko had a pink and purple 3-tier ruffled skirt. Ryo thought his babies looked adorable for their first concert, even if they were going to spend most of it backstage. Maeda vocally agreed once he saw the babies. He definitely got a kick out of the baby TUBE shirts.

The rest of the band were now off the stage and Maeda, who was holding Ryoko, offered to lead them to the backstage area. But first he indicated the area before the center of the stage, where the lead singer had momentarily disappeared from sight when he came down the stairs. There were two rows of seats set within the clamshell stage decoration that Ryo noticed as they approached the stage. Or at least it looked like a decoration. Ryo was certain there were LED lights set in it, to most likely provide some entertaining light patterns to go with the show. The top curved overhead the seats, and Ryo suddenly understood how Dee was going to be able to join them for the show until it was time for him to go onstage. From the number of seats, it looked like Hide and Ken would join their families there too, along with Yuki with Jae-Hwa. And the reason why they had to go down steps was to have the seats low enough that the clamshell would not block the stage from the paying audience behind it.

At least when Maeda was introduced to Ayaka, finally someone was not flustered or ready to faint. He did smile warmly at her, saying he was glad to finally meet her, and that both TKY's producer and NGY's assistant producer were good friends of his. Ayaka still looked shocked at that, but nicely recovered. Apparently Maeda's biggest thrill was that she was Dee's sister. And it made sense why they were all there with special seating to watch Dee and his friends join TUBE for a couple of songs during that show. Between the TKY connection and the band members in TUBE admitting being Daigaku Dudes fans, it was no wonder Dee was pulled onstage at the other concert, and how they went through so much trouble to set things up for that night.

When they got backstage, they noticed that Jae-Hwa was already there, and talking to Ryoji Matsumoto, the drummer. The bassist, Hideyuki Kakuno and guitarist, Michiya Haruhata came over to their group. As they talked to the band members, and took photos, Bikky and Carol were allowed to do videos. They had worked out a way of not letting it be known that 'D' of the Daigaku Dudes was one of Bikky's dads, and were doing a video on the Daigaku Dudes reunion. Except for some clips and short interviews with the music press, Bikky and Carol pretty much had the exclusive of that gem.

Dee appeared with Hide, and Ryo's eyes opened with surprise. Yes, he had seen photos of the Daigaku Dudes, and knew his husband the moment Dee came into view. Yet, seeing Dee ready to go on stage in his red and black kabuki style make-up, his hair styled slightly different and higher, and those tight black leather pants with buckles and straps going down the side.

God, those black leather pants. They certainly did not come out of their closet in the penthouse, and was most likely bought by TUBE's wardrobe, but how Ryo was wishing Dee was able to take them with him when he left Budokan later that night.

He also had the same tee-shirt he wore when he left for the show and a hapi. It was not the same one he had from the Nagoya concert. This one was slightly longer, red and black with sumi-e style designs on it. Hide wore black jeans also with straps and buckles and one of the TUBE shirts that was being sold outside. His make-up was just black over the white face, and his hapi was much like Dee's but in black and white. Then there was Dee's eyes. It wasn't the first time Ryo had seen Dee with brown contact lenses. He had put them on for the cruise on the Edo period dinner cruise, but he still could not help but marvel over the effect they had on Dee. Dee truly looked Japanese. If he didn't have on the make-up, strangers would no doubt start talking to Dee in Japanese, and if he had them on the night before, he wouldn't have been asked to show his passport. Ryo shouldn't have been so amazed, considering Dafydd, who did look very Japanese.

Dee came over to them, after stopping for Bikky and Carol to ask him a couple of questions.

"Oh my God! The chibis have TUBE shirts!" he exclaimed and took Ryoko from Maeda. "Why didn't I see this when we were taking photos outside?"

"It was a bit cold outside, so we didn't open their cover-ups," Ryo said.

"And you didn't say anything about it either outside," Dee said.

"It was a surprise," Momo said with a laugh.

Ryoko seemed to give Dee a strange look, but after grabbing onto Dee's finger, she let out a happy laugh and buried her face in his shoulder.

"She still knows you're her father," Ryo said, amazed. "What about Darin?"

Saburo started to laugh as he held Darin. "He knows already." Ryo looked to see Darin happily reaching for Dee.

"You were told that Fujiokas have strong family bonds," Sakura said. "This is proof. Especially since Daisuke was the one to give birth to them. It might take them just a little longer but they will also recognize you if you were wearing make-up like that. The akachans know who their daddies are."

Ryo nodded. He had to admit that at times, the Fujiokas were a bit on the scary side, and now Dee was a part of them. But it was also a good thing because this was Dee's family.

"Momo decided this afternoon that since Darin and Ryoko were going to the show tonight, that they had to have shirts too. So she made them. And had help," Ryo said.

Hide started to laugh. "And in the back, it says Daigaku Dudes!" He pointed to the back of Darin's shirt.

"Oh hey!" Dee exclaimed and laughed. "That's awesome." He looked at Tatsuya and Kiyoshi who were jumping up and down with excitement. "Thank you," he said to his nephews. "These shirts make me really happy."

"Wow! Uncle Daisuke really is a Daigaku Dude!" Kiyoshi exclaimed going over to hug Dee's leg. Dee reached down with a hand to make sure his nephew didn't get his face caught on a belt buckle as he laughed.

"We get to see TUBE and Daigaku Dudes! YAY!" exclaimed Tatsuya. He looked up to Dafydd. "Papa! We're gonna rock tonight!" he said in English.

Everyone started to laugh.

"Who's been teaching him that?" Momo asked Dafydd, who started to laugh more. "As for the shirts, I thought it was fitting," Momo said. "So did Kiyoshi and Tatsuya. It was their idea."

"And they helped with the artwork too." Smiling, Dee said to Maeda, "My nephews are extremely talented for their age."

"I can see that," Maeda agreed.

The lead singer ended up talking to Kiyoshi and Tatsuya, who were with Dafydd. The little boys were excited and had plenty of questions to ask the singer. Maeda took it all in stride and even managed to get a few questions in for the boys to answer. They also pulled Kyoka over, introducing her to the singer, much to everyone's amusement. Kyoka really had no idea who Maeda was yet. Since she is shy around strangers, she sidled up to Dee's side, hiding her face against his leg. Again, Dee made sure her face didn't connect with a buckle, but then decided to pick her up and let her cuddle her face against his shoulder.

Ken's and Hide's families arrived and got to meet the members of TUBE. Dee's family milled about the backstage area and took photos with Dee in his stage gear until a stage hand came over stating everyone should head to their seats, so they could all be nicely concealed from the audience, especially the Daigaku Dudes members.

Dee and Ryo hugged Darin and Ryoko before Sakura was escorted to a dressing room with Darin and Ryoko. Moriko joined them, stating that she was not fond of loud music especially from so close to the stage, but was there to see Dee and his friends do their numbers.

OoOoOoO

The setlist was slightly changed from the Nagoya show. Dee still could not help clapping and doing the moves to some of the songs, along with his fathers, Dafydd, Nobu and Tsubasa. Even Bikky had joined in from the start, and Ryo could not stand still, even if at times he would look at Dee, and suddenly break out in laughter as if he forgot that his husband had on the make-up. Yuki, Hide and Ken also were acting very much like fans as they watched the show, and not at all like they were the special guest performers that night. It was fun, being with friends and family, watching TUBE play Budokan while in their own hidden area from the audience. And it was a fantastic show.

Now everyone was waiting for the band to come back on stage for the encore. Little did the fans out there know what was to happen next. At least this time, Dee was prepared. So were his father, twin brother and Ryo's uncle and cousin, unlike in Nagoya when Dee was first called onstage.

The rehearsals the afternoon before and that afternoon were grueling only because there were more than just the four band members to keep time with. There were all the other musicians, who while playing their instruments also had steps to do. Thankfully there weren't as many of the additional musicians for this show as there normally would be during the summer tours. There were also less dancers, but there were enough that Dee and his friends at first found it difficult to keep in time with everyone. It was why the rehearsal lasted longer than originally expected. Thank goodness the band was gracious. They understood what was being asked of Dee and his friends. They only had two days to prepare for this, and not even two full days, after not doing a professional performance in around 10 years. Everyone was helpful and supportive, and very giving with advice. Dee was sure they weren't going to be perfect, but he was certain that they were going to do good enough because of it.

The downside of no longer being surprised was Dee found himself suddenly getting nervous when he realized in just a few minutes they were going to be called onstage. Thankfully, Dee was able to forget his nerves when he noticed his grandmother and Ryo's Aunt Moriko being escorted by a stagehand to their seats. They had Darin and Ryoko with them. At first Dee glanced nervously at Ryo, who also tensed a moment, but then saw the babies had ear guards on. It was only going to be for about 10 minutes and he had faith in the crew and especially his grandmother that his babies ears were being properly protected for the time. He knew his grandmother enough to know if she doubted they were protected, she would never have allowed them to the front of the stage with her.

Ryo was given Ryoko from Moriko, while Sakura continued to hold Darin and took a seat.

The stage lights were turned on as the band came back onstage. No one seemed to notice or think about it, but Maeda was wearing one of the Daigaku Dudes shirts that was sold at their shows. Once again, Maeda started talking about having a special surprise for everyone, and how excited he was that this was finally happening. He then mentioned at their last show, they had a special guest who was once part of a very famous group, and now for this show the whole group was there. Many people who had seen the news from the Nagoya show realized what was about to happen and there was excited cheering and screaming.

After giving his family a smile as he hugged Ryo, Dee stepped forward to join Yuki, Hide and Ken.

And then, something Dee had not heard in ten years, and this time it was being said by Nobutera Maeda of TUBE. The Daigaku Dudes were being introduced before coming onstage.

"Please join us in a mini-reunion of DAIGAKU DUDES!" Maeda exclaimed.

The audience went wild as first Ken, then Hide, Yuki and finally Dee went up the stairs to the stage. They turned to face the audience, waving and blowing kisses before they went over to join the rest of the band.

After taking in the excited crowd, Dee noticed Ryo was taking pictures while cheering while Momo held Ryoko, putting her little hands together as if she was clapping for her daddy and his group. Sakura was doing the same with Darin. Bikky most likely was filming as he cheered. Saburo was wiping his eyes with his hands between clapping and screaming. To Dee, it was amazing and thrilling that so many people really did remember them and still cared, but even more important was to share this moment with his family and see their excitement. The only thing that would have made it beyond perfect was if Mother was there. But knowing his family, she was in a way, especially from the way Akira's phone was positioned. Ryo's grandmother was most likely on a video call with Mother who was now watching everything.

The band started playing "It's Gonna Be Me". The Daigaku Dudes did their song, as the dancers and most of the musicians, including Maeda, Haruhata and Kakuno joined the four in the choreography. Maeda joined in on the chorus and sang a couple of lines in the second verse, while Dee and Yuki sang most of the vocals. The audience went crazy, screaming and yelling, while their hands followed along with the movements from the stage.

Dee would not believe that reaction was for them now. It was like being back ten years on the stage, when their version of "It's Gonna Be Me" was at the top of the Japanese music charts. Even more unbelievable was seeing his family in front of the stage, obviously enjoying the show. He knew he would continue to be teased about being a Daigaku Dude by Ryo and Bikky for a long time after this, but he could also see the pride in his husband and oldest son. They both weren't holding back in their enjoyment of watching Dee, even if Ryo was being cautious not to bounce Ryoko too much when he took her back from Momo. The baby seemed to be enjoying herself. The way Ryo was moving was much like "dance time" which both babies enjoyed. Darin clung to Sakura, laughing, most likely because of everyone else's excitement. No matter what caused his infant son's laughter, Dee's heart was filled with warmth to be doing this again, but this time having his family watching. Including not only a husband and three children, but fathers, brothers, a sister and grandmother he never thought he would ever have a relationship with. Especially when he had first arrived in Japan in October, he didn't think he had. It was very likely that the mother he had always acknowledged through his life was also watching, even if she was back in New York, finally seeing him perform professionally since he had kept that part of his life hidden from Mother, and everyone else in New York until recently.

When they were done with the song, Maeda introduced them individually to the adoring applause of the audience. Then there was the beginning notes of the medley of songs they had worked out during rehearsals. They started with "Umi no Ie", or "Sea House" in English. The day before, it was explained that because Dee had the routine down perfectly during the Nagoya show, it would be much easier for him to learn with everyone else who was on the stage. Thankfully, it was one of those songs that Ken, Hide and Yuki knew well. Dee didn't want to think about how much harder it could have been with a song that they didn't know the choreography for.

Maeda was center, Yuki, then Ken on his left, and on his right, Dee was next to him, and then Hide. Next to Ken was Haruhata and next to Hide was Kakuna, though there were times during the number, the two band members would wander off to another part of the stage to interact with the audience, before coming back for the chorus. On each side of the bassist and guitarist were 5 female dancers. They wore short kimono like outfits with matching shorts under, and white trainers, as the dancer always wore for TUBE shows. Ten dancers total was a significantly lower number than the sometimes 50 or more dancers the summer stadium shows would have.

The fun thing about the song was the fans were encouraged to join in on the choreography. Maeda sang the first verse, while Daigaku Dudes joined the dancers with the choreography, and then joined in, singing with Maeda for the chorus. It was physically demanding to be doing the jumps from side to side while singing, but they pulled it off.

As the chorus ended, the music changed to the opening notes of Daigaku Dudes other bit hit, "Through the Waves". Maeda moved back so the Daigaku Dudes could come together again center stage and sing their other hit song. The song, especially the title, was a tip of the hat to TUBE with the summer beach theme. It was a beautiful love song of young love starting on the beach, and lasting a lifetime, even after bouts of hard times. The dancers were now doing the choreography that was worked out the day before for the song. Occasionally Maeda, Haruhata or Kakuna would come up to one of them and at one point near the end of the song, they danced around Maeda, who was also doing their moves. Maeda joined in on the final chorus.

The song ended and everyone quickly moved back into the original formation for "Umi no Ie" to pick up for the second verse. The song continued, until just before the last chorus, everything came to a stop. No music, everyone standing still, with fists in the air, for a few seconds before the band started to play "Season in the Sun". Daigaku Dudes sang along with the chorus and did background vocals. Dee and Yuki sang the second verse of the song, and shared the last verse with Maeda. When they were done with "Season in the Sun", everyone snapped back into the positions they were in before they went into "Season in the Sun". A few seconds later, they did the last chorus of "Umi no Ie".

And then it was all over. Well, the concert wasn't. TUBE had two more songs to do, but Daigaku Dudes' time on the stage was over. Dee found himself wishing, like this trip to Japan, that it would never end. Maeda announced them again, and they took their bows to an excited, happy audience. In unison, all four Daigaku Dudes thanked everyone and bowed again. Everyone in the venue was on their feet – or more like stayed on their feet, since it was hard to sit for "Umi no Ie" for many fans – cheering and clapping and stamping their feet. And suddenly Dee realized that the fans were chanting "Daigaku Dudes!" Maeda not only allowed it to go on for a few minutes, but he encouraged it. So did the other band members. They thanked the crowd again, and took one more bow before they were hugging TUBE band members and went off the stage, going into the backstage area.

"OH MY GOD! THAT WAS AMAZING!" Yuki exclaimed in a near screech.

"Holy hell," Dee uttered. "Did that just happen?"

"What, us being on stage with TUBE?" Hide asked. "Or the crowd's reaction before we left the stage."

"Both?" Ken asked.

"Yeah, both," Dee said. "And the audience while we did 'It's Gonna Be Me'."

"That too," Hide remarked and laughed.

The four college friends and former roommates came together for a group hug. As they pulled apart, Dee's grandmother came over with Akira and Moriko. Moriko had Darin and Sakura had Ryoko. Akira was talking on her phone.

Sakura hugged Dee with one arm, nearly hopping with excitement. "I should be used to this because of Ayaka," she said with a laugh. "You were wonderful!" She hugged him again as he returned it. "You all were! Sugoi! That was amazing!"

"Your father was crying like a baby, but from happiness," Moriko said laughing. "That was even better than the party. Are you sure this is the last time?"

"I think Ryo got a little wet in the eyes as he watched his husband and friends do that amazing performance," Akira said. "You held up with the big boys." She held out her phone. "Someone else was crying with joy and happiness."

As Dee figured, he saw Mother on the phone and laughed. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Mom. Everyone, I'm glad you enjoyed it."

"I could not believe that was my son. Oh Dee, I do hope there is video," Maria exclaimed. "Oh my goodness!"

They heard cheering and clapping from Mother's side. "What's that?" Dee asked.

"I allowed some of the children to watch on my phone with me, knowing it was their big brother Dee," Maria explained.

"Oh geez," Dee remarked and started to grin. "I'm glad they enjoyed it too."

"Let's move some so these wonderful performers could watch the rest of the show," Akira suggested.

"I'll talk to you later, Dee. Call me when you're home. Your home there in Tokyo," Maria said. "Just know you were wonderful. And tell your friends they were too."

"Thanks, Mom."

After Daigaku Dudes left the stage, Maeda was introducing the dancers and extra additional musicians and now the band had finished introducing themselves and were starting the next song. It was loud where they were, but not as bad as the front of the stage, so Dee took Darin from Moriko as they found a spot on the side of the stage to watch TUBE do the last two songs of the show. Sakura stood next to him holding Ryoko. And Dee realized that this was Darin's and Ryoko's first TUBE concert, their first concert ever really, and it filled him with even more joy than he was feeling at that moment as he cuddled his son to him.

The band came off stage after taking their bows and once again congratulated them for joining them on stage. Soon after, their families were escorted from their special seating to join everyone backstage. Akira and Sakura already were taking Darin and Ryoko back to the dressing room and take the little headsets off, and get the babies ready to go outside. Moriko joined them to get her coat and assist with the babies.

Ryo rushed over to Dee and practically flung himself into Dee's arms and kissed him. "That was fucking amazing, Dee!" Ryo exclaimed, breathless.

Dee hugged Ryo with a laugh and kissed him back, getting more black lipstick on Ryo's lips.

Bikky came over to them. Pumping his fist in the air, he proclaimed, "My dad is a Japanese pop star! You were great, Dad."

"Yeah, Dee. I can't believe it happened, but it did and it was great," Carol agreed.

Ryo moved away from Dee as Saburo rushed over to him, with Dafydd on his heels. Behind Dafydd was Ayaka.

After hugging Dee, Saburo said, "Every time I think I'm getting used to having you back in my life, something else happens that is hard to believe. I just can't believe my Daisuke was onstage with his group and singing with TUBE. I am going to have to watch the video a hundred times or more before I will believe this really happened."

Dee laughed as he pulled his father into another hug. "You and me both, Papa. I can't believe it happened."

"But it did," someone said besides them, and when they looked it was Maeda. "Let's talk about next tour, you are in Japan and do it again."

"I'm not sure about doing it again, but I can tell you that this was unbelievably amazing. It was a lot of fun and well, just a dream come true. Thank you for asking us to do this."

Maeda laughed and reminded Dee that he had been waiting a long time for the chance to do a song with Daigaku Dudes and that he was still going to call Dee about joining them for another show anyway, especially at Yokohama Stadium.

Dee found himself surrounded by an excited and extremely happy family who were glad to have gotten the chance to see him perform with Daigaku Dudes and TUBE. There were photos taken of Daigaku Dudes at their seats, but more photos were taken backstage. There were photos of their families with both groups taken too.

Sakura, Akira and Moriko came back from the dressing room with Darin and Ryoko, along with the baby bag they had with them in the dressing room for most of the show.

When it was time for everyone to leave, Ryo's family said their goodnights and were escorted back into the venue, so they could go out the public doors and go to their van and drive back to Kamakura. That afternoon, Dee had taken the subway to Budokan, just as he did the day before, but unlike the day before, he was not going to take the subway back to Roppongi Hills. The bus his family had arrived in was allowed in the private entrance, and waiting among the other buses and trucks that were now being loaded as the stage was taken down. That way, Dee would be able to get on the bus still in his stage outfit, and then he could change and take off his make-up in the penthouse. Ken, Hide and Yuki would also join them on the bus. Their families would meet them at the hotel, where they would quickly jump into their vehicles and go home. Yuki and Jae-Hwa were going with Ken's family, and drop them off before continuing to Ken's house. The families also left with Ryo's family, going out through the public doors and walking to their cars parked in the parking lot.

The hotel lobby was still pretty busy when they arrived, but thankfully not as much as during the day. Stores were just closing or were already closed. Only some of the cafes and restaurants were still open, and not many people were checking in at that time of night, but there were still people who were using the lobby to get to the subway or lingering in the expansive lobby. Those people got a surprise when suddenly the Daigaku Dudes entered the lobby.

They had created a bit of a stir in the main driveway of the hotel, and Yoshio suggested they make a quick appearance as a group, maybe sign some autographs before letting Ken, Hide and Yuki get into their vehicles and go home.

Once again, Dee was reminded that people still did remember them. The hotel staff seemed to be stunned when they realized that one of the owners, and the other owner's family was with them, concluding one of their owners was in the Daigaku Dudes. Some already knew when they recognized Dee from the news reports from Nagoya. Some even knew one of Dee's sisters was Ayaka Fujioka from TKY52 and NGY52. For others in the lobby that evening, it was a surprise. Ryo had to go over to the duty manager and reminded him to instruct the staff not to say anything about who Daigaku Dude "D" really was. The people in the lobby that day were further shocked when they realized Ayaka was with them, since she did not have her glasses and hoodie on when she got off the bus, no longer in disguise. Dee had learned backstage that while they were wondering around outside the Budokan, Ayaka was noticed by only a few people and those people were very discreet about it. Ayaka managed to appear as just another TUBE fan in a sea of TUBE fans, enjoying herself before seeing the show with her family.

Security finally had to help Yuki, Ken and Hide get to their vans waiting in the driveway near the entrance, and Dee and Ayaka to the elevator. While they were signing autographs, taking selfies with fans and just talking to their fans, Dee's family started to go up to the penthouse. Ryo gave Sakura his keycard so everyone in the elevator with her could get into the penthouse.

Ayaka, Dee and Ryo were the last ones to get to their penthouse. Dafydd and Momo were already getting their boys ready for bed. Saburo and Yoshio were changing Darin and Ryoko into their night clothes. The two babies were already asleep by the time they left Budokan. Jirou and Eri, Tomiji and SJ had settled in their rooms in the afternoon, and went to their rooms for the night instead of the penthouse. Everyone else was relaxing in the living room, enjoying something to drink. Ryo joined them when Dee went into their bedroom to take off the make-up and shower. But not before some photos and video was taken of Dee around the penthouse, especially when he stood by the kitchen island, drinking a bottle of Mitsuya cider. He also took time to call Mother and talk to her for a few minutes. She was still very excited.

When he came back to the living room, he wore the only yukata of the many he had accumulated during their time in Japan that was still in the penthouse. All the others were probably already in a warehouse at JFK airport in New York, along with all their other stuff. It reminded Dee that the day was almost over, and there was just one more full day in Japan.

For this trip, he reminded himself as he joined his family. Soon after, his grandmother excused herself to go to bed. Tatsuya and Kiyoshi were tired, but they wanted to say goodnight to Dee, telling their uncle how much they loved seeing him on stage. Bikky and Kenny also said goodnight, mostly because Bikky knew his younger cousins would fall asleep sooner if he was there. Everyone else stayed up for another hour, talking about the show until they all went to their rooms.

In their bedroom, Dee discovered just how much Ryo loved watching Dee onstage. It was a good thing their bedroom was in their own corner of the penthouse. Ryo was disappointed that Dee had taken off the pants, but Dee said he was allowed to keep them and would be going back to New York with them. Ryo gave Dee an extremely salacious grin, which made Dee glad he was told he could keep the pants.

It really was an awesome day.

OoOoOoO

Fujioka Penthouse

Roppongi Hills, Tokyo

Japan

November 20, 2006

It was a slow morning for everyone. For the first couple of hours, while they had breakfast and relaxed in the living room, almost everyone was in yukata., until around 9 when everyone decided to get dressed and start the day. Dee and Ryo spent some of the morning on the back terrace, taking in the view of Mt. Fuji as a backdrop to the city from their vantage point.

There was one full day left before leaving the next afternoon for New York. For Dee's family, there was excitement, knowing they were going to spend 3 more weeks with Dee, and get to see his New York home. For Dee, Ryo, Bikky and Carol, they were sad to be leaving Japan. It seemed like only yesterday they were getting off the plane to meet Ryo's grandmother and uncle at Haneda Airport. And yet, as Dee had said several times, it also felt like a lifetime because of everything that had happened during the last two months.

Bikky, Carol and Kenny were allowed to go off on their own as long as they were back before dinner. Ayaka decided to stay with her family that day. Their first stop was Harajuku, where Dee and Ryo wanted the crepes from their favorite shop one more time on Takeshita Street. They walked down the street and went into LaForest mall, where they picked up some last-minute gifts. From Harajuku, their next stop was Tokyo Station. A few blocks away on the Marunouchi side of the station was the main branch of Bank of Tokyo. Dee and Ryo opened an account while everyone else walked around the area after exchanging yen to dollars in the bank.

Once Dee and Ryo were done with bank business, they met up with their group at Yūrakuchō Station, where they walked to Tsukiji Market because Dee wanted sushi from the market again. To their surprise, Bikky, Carol and Kenny were waiting with everyone at the station. Bikky and Carol had already said goodbye to their friends the day before, promising to keep in touch. They were at Shimbashi Station and decided to text Dafydd asking where everyone was. Since it was only a stop away, Bikky, Carol and Kenny got on the next train to Yūrakuchō Station and joined everyone waiting for Dee and Ryo.

Their group lucked out that they found a restaurant that was very popular but had a party room they were able to take over for their meal. Dee and Ryo picked up a few more gifts as they walked around the market after eating, along with several packets of various fresh furikake they would not be able to buy at Mitsuwa, including shiso wakame. At one point, they stopped at a stand selling packages of fresh tsukemono in vacuum packages.

Ryo looked at Eri with an apologetic smile. "I know we have tsukemono you made to take back to New York, but I know it's going to go very fast. So Dee and I are thinking about getting some of this to hold us until we can get to Nagoya and some more of yours."

"You make the best tsukemono, Aunt Eri," Bikky said.

Ryo laughed. "Bikky has always liked the cucumber tsukemono, and we have seen him enjoy all types we came across during our trip, but I never saw him eat so much tsukemono of all types until he started eating yours."

"It's oshii!" Bikky stated.

"It really is, Eri," Carol said.

"We get the decent mass produced packaged tsukemono in New York," Dee said. "Sometimes we can find some fresh made in Mitsuwa if we are there at the right time. And even sometimes we make the cucumber tsukemono using the seasoning mix we buy in a package, which is better than buying the packaged version. These look like they are much less mass produced than what they sell in stores."

Eri nodded her head. "These look much like the way my family's business packages theirs for sale in small shops. It is definitely better than what you will get in the stores, even here in Japan. I agree, if you think we will need more while in New York, to get some. And then when I am back in Nagoya, I will work out how to get you tsukemono."

"We'll add it to the care package of kishimen and hatcho miso," Sakura said.

"Are you going to get Ojiisan to use his jet to send Dee and Ryo fresh food from Nagoya, Obaasan?" Jirou asked in amusement.

Tomiji laughed. "I want to be in that room when you ask him."

Sakura let out a huff. "I know what the answer will be, unless the jet is going to be in the New York area for business. If it is, there will be a package on the jet to be delivered for Daisuke and his family to enjoy. But we also know someone in the transport business, and I have already talked with Takehide and Nobu. After this trip and watching our New Yorkers enjoy Japanese food much more than what can be bought in New York, Akira is also going to be sending care packages in between your trips to Japan. I have been assured that there will be express shipments with Chikaiki to New York. So just buy what you think you need for the next few weeks."

Dee and Ryo shared a look and then looked at Bikky. "How does that sound to you, Biks?" Ryo asked.

"Like we're going to have Japanese more than once or twice a week," Bikky replied with a big grin.

"Are we?" Ryo asked Dee.

Dee shrugged. "We have guests who will probably want what we have to offer in New York, but it probably would be nice for them to have something familiar here and there. After that?" He shrugged again. "When I got back from Japan after college, I was glad I learned how to cook Japanese, and found Sunrise Mart on 9th Street, because for almost a year after, I mostly ate Japanese. Because I missed Japan so much, and it was probably a small way of keeping a part of myself in Japan."

Ryo started to grin as Bikky laughed. "Biks, I think we are going to have it more than once or twice a week for a while then. Including Nagoya specialties."

"Yeah," Dee said looking at his family. "Definitely from Nagoya." He smiled at his family.

"I won't stop you from that plan," Saburo said. "But remember, there is and was always a part of you in Japan, especially in Nagoya, where you were born and where your family lives."

Dee quickly closed the gap between himself and his father to hug him, as some tears he had been holding back during times that day leaked from his eyes. "I love you, Papa," he said still holding onto his father. He looked back at the rest of the Fujiokas. "I love all of you, my beautiful, wonderful family."

Their group received several odd stares from people passing, especially from those who had to walk around the large group that suddenly decided it was time for a massive group hug.

They came out of the outdoor market area at Harumi-dori to start walking up toward Kabukiza, which was only a few blocks away. But first a stop was made at the next intersection, which was Harumi-dori and Shin-ohashi-dori because Saburo and Sakura wanted family photos at the Tsukiji Hongwanji.

It was a beautiful Buddhist temple made of stone with a history dating back to the 17th century.

"The first time I came across this temple, I was on my own," Dee said to his family as they walked on the path of the small park on temple grounds. Other than the little park, unlike other temples, the grounds was mostly wide concrete walkways to the grand staircase at the entrance of the massive temple building. "At first I thought it was some government or imperial building and just stood at the gates staring." He laughed.

"But surely you were able to read it was a temple," Yoshio said. "It wasn't as if you were walking around Tokyo not able to read Japanese."

"I did read the name and realized it was a temple, but it was just so grand and so ornate in an almost European fashion that I still felt like I shouldn't be entering," Dee replied. "The next time I was in Tsujiki, I was with Hide and Ken, and they decided we were going into the temple."

"It isn't like all the other temples," Bikky said. "I thought it was some extension to the imperial palace or something the first time we were here until you and dad mentioned it was a temple."

"And we went in too," Ryo added. "Are we going in today?" he asked.

Dee sighed. "Why not? It's probably going to be our last Japanese temple for a while."

Ryo squeezed Dee's arm, knowing how Dee was feeling. Dee had been battling mixed emotions since he woke up that morning. He intended to make the best of the day, enjoying everywhere they went, including the boring business of opening a bank account, and he was having a great time. Especially having his fathers, grandmother, some of his siblings with him plus a couple of cousins. Besides, it wasn't going to be another ten years before returning. A few months at the most. They would be back in Japan in a couple of months for certain to celebrate his father's birthday in February. There wouldn't be a stop in Tokyo that time, but a month or two later, they should be back in Tokyo. After all, they were now living in Tokyo as well as New York. That meant being back in the city the first chance they had, even if for a week. That thought was the only thing keeping the tears at bay that he felt at times as they walked around. Ryo had admitted to feeling the same.

After they left the temple, they continued their way the few blocks on Harumi-dori and made a stop in Bunmeido across from Kabukiza to pick up the Christmas stockings Dee had ordered to bring back for the kids in the orphanage. Dee and Ryo also picked up some cakes and custard to have that day and for the flight to New York. After more family photos in front of Kabukiza, they went to Mitsukoshi department store, mostly to browse the food counters. Dee and Ryo bought some gift boxes of the fancier foods as omiyage for their friends with finer palettes. Everyone also bought some bento for when they got back to the penthouse. They did go up to the roof garden just for the views of Ginza from the roof, and stop for warm drinks in one of the cafes on the top floor.

OoOoOoO

They continued to walk along Harumi-dori toward Yūrakuchō Station, going under the train tracks and toward Hibiya Park. A block after the tracks, they took a slight detour for a block so Bikky and Dee could see the Godzilla statue again, especially since SJ and Kenny had never seen it. It made SJ and Kenny very happy. Saburo, Yoshio, Dafydd and Jirou also enjoyed seeing it, and taking more photos by it. Ryo had to admit he got a thrill seeing it too.

It was a bittersweet day. He knew Dee was feeling it too. Dee probably had more reasons to feel that way, considering he had recently discovered his biological family. And boy what a family! They were wonderful, and Ryo was glad the group with them that day was going to be on the plane with them the next day, with more of the family coming to New York next week. Not just for Dee, but Ryo had come to love them too, as he was also accepted as family, and was glad to have more time with them.

Another stop to take photos with the moat and some of the Imperial Palace grounds behind them. During a photo of just Ryo and Dee kissing, instead of pulling away completely, Ryo hugged Dee tightly as he rested his head against Dee's. "Dee, we were inside there," he said softly. "We were in the Imperial Palace, discussing the ACC and what we can do in New York to protect our Carriers with His Majesty and the Prime Minister."

"Yeah, wow. We were."

"And we were over on the north side of the palace grounds at Budokan last night, where you were on stage with your group, singing with TUBE."

Dee shook his head and chuckled. "I'm still having trouble believing it, but it really did happen."

"We have photos and video to prove it," Ryo said with a laugh. "You know something else?"

"What's that?"

"We live here. Yes, we live in New York, but we're residents in Tokyo too. And we have a beautiful penthouse to call home living in Tokyo."

Dee let out a sigh and managed to pull Ryo even closer. "We do. And I know that means this isn't our last day in Tokyo or Japan for a long time. We'll be back soon."

"Yes, we will. But I still have to ask one more time. When we get back to New York tomorrow, are we going to continue to also live there? Or should we start packing and instead of finding something in New York, ship it all to our Tokyo apartment?"

"It's tempting. If I didn't get that promotion to head our new unit, I might say yes, but we can't. Not now. One day, one year, but not now. Besides, ironically I was also entrusted in what we do in our unit by Japan's Emperor and Prime Minister. Right now, being good, obedient Japanese citizens means we have to make our primary residence in New York."

Ryo started to laugh. "That is ironic, especially since that's true. Okay. One day, one year. And maybe not Tokyo but Nagoya."

"That's a possibility too," Dee admitted. "But tomorrow, we're going back home to New York, and thankfully taking along some of my family from Nagoya."

"We'll be back soon," Ryo repeated. "Tokyo, Kamakura and Nagoya. Maybe a side trip to Osaka too."

"Definitely," Dee said. He moved his head to kiss Ryo. "I love you so much. Will you marry me again in Nagoya this March?"

"Only if you marry me again," Ryo replied with a warm smile.

They finally pulled apart to find the rest of their family had moved away a little along Harumi-dori and were pretending to be looking at the moat, or sitting in the old stone former guardhouse, one of the few remnants of Edo Castle still standing, but Ryo caught a few heads turning quickly away from looking at them. The only one who was not attempting to give Ryo and Dee their private moment on a busy street in Tokyo was Ayaka, who was standing off to the side so she wouldn't block pedestrians and getting the moment on video.

She gave the two men a cheery smile. "This definitely belongs on your trip DVD," she said in Japanese.

Dee started to laugh and after giving Ryo a brief kiss and hug went over to his sister and pulled her in for a hug. "You're right," he said to her also in Japanese. "I didn't think about it, but we certainly have enough video to do a best of trip DVD."

"I think that's a great idea," Ryo said, coming over to join the siblings.

"Are we ready to cross the street and go into Hibiya Park?" Jirou asked with amusement.

Sakura slapped Jirou's arm. "Leave them alone," she said. "You should have a moment like that with your wife."

"We had one on the roof garden at Mitsukoshi," Jirou said.

Eri nodded with a smile. "We did." With a giggle, she added, "We're a bit more discreet than Dee and Ryo."

"My dads are never discreet," Bikky said.

"Bikky!" Ryo yelped, while Dee's family started to laugh.

"Can we go to that samurai spot again?" Bikky asked.

"The guy died there, Bikky," Dee said and made a face at him.

"It's still samurai history," Bikky retorted. "It's like I had to go on a class trip to Grant's Tomb and then there's those old cemeteries near Ground Zero. Besides, if it was open, I bet we would have gone into that old foreigner cemetery in Yokohama."

Dee started to grin. "I was teasing you, but I'm glad you have now have such an interest in history. I will always encourage you learning more about Japanese history, but please make a big effort in whatever they're going to teach you in school."

"I'll try," Bikky promised.

"I think it's because Japan's history is much older than America's," Ryo said. "By about 2000 years or so."

Bikky nodded. "I was hoping we would have seen some castles in England."

"Hopefully your fathers will take you to Wales one day," Sakura said. She looked at Saburo. "Have you heard from Edwin yet, Saburo?"

"Not yet," Saburo replied. "But I also know that he stays with relatives in North Wales for the holidays most years. Chances are he is there now and won't get my letter until he's home after New Year's Day. I'm sure he will want to meet Daisuke once he knows."

"He will," Sakura stated in her no-nonsense tone. "Daisuke will meet his grandfather, and visit Wales, meaning Bikky will get to see some wonderful western castles. Dafydd, you should go too with Momo and your boys."

"Sure," Dafydd said, with a look knowing better than to say anything else when his grandmother had that tone.

Dee started to smirk. "I'll go if only to see Dafydd in Wales," he said.

"Don't say anything about your twin's hair, Daisuke," Saburo warned Dee, who was going to do just that. "And it's time to cross the street and go into Hibiya Park.

As they started to cross, Dafydd stuck his tongue out at Dee, so of course, Dee had to return it as their family around them started to chuckle.

After walking first along the trails on the outer side of Shinji Pond, the group explored the other side of the pond, stopping by the marker that claimed it was the place of death for Date Masamune, the shogun who had founded Sendai in the early 17th century. His main residence was located where Hibiya Park is now located, the residence covering the span of the park and beyond going north. He was in that residence when he died in 1636. Bikky had looked him up after reading the sign the first time they went to the park, and was able to tell the history of the shogun to their group. Ryo was sure at least some, if not most of the adults in their group already knew it, but everyone looked pleased as Bikky talked while they started to walk through the park, passing the colorful flowerbeds.

They continued to walk through the rest of the park, stopping on the wood bridge that crossed over part of Kumogata Pond and the pergola overlooking the pond for more family photos.

Despite the land's history of being where a powerful shogun had his residence, the park was developed as a western style park. There was still enough things uniquely Japan in the park, such as the bridge and pergola, some Japanese stone statues along the paths and many plants and trees that were everywhere in Japan. However, also inside the park were some western style buildings, such as the Hibiya Assembly Hall. There was also a section of the park named Fuente del Parque Hibiya with a fountain and a grass lawn, along with more colorful flowers along the perimeter. On the south end of the lawn was a large Solar Clock, which was basically a giant clock. Carol and Ayaka were doing most of the video during their walk, but Ryo caught Dee also recording parts of their walks, and stopping to take photos, just has he had been doing all day.

The Solar Clock was across from the Elm-tree Field. Past the field was the Assembly Hall, a brown brick western style building that resembled the Kanagawa Prefecture building, King, but came just short of being as impressive as the three western style buildings in Yokohama nicknamed Jack, Queen and King by the locals. Inside the building was also a library and a small museum. Across the road going past the Assembly Hall toward the park's entrance on Kokkai-dori was a small restaurant looking very much like the older wooden buildings in Japan. Up just a little further from the restaurant was a very modern triangle shaped building that was a museum and also had a library. They were now out of the park and passing the Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall.

Dee pointed ahead of them down the wide Kokkai-dori and looking at Bikky and Carol said, "The National Diet Building is up there. It's a shame we didn't think of going where we could take a look at it. Especially when we were exploring Asakasa. Bikky should have seen it. It is, after all, pretty much the Japanese version of the Capitol in Washington D.C.."

"It's cool, Dad," Bikky said. "We had to pass it going to Budokan yesterday, so Ryo asked the bus driver if she could drive around it. We got pictures from the bus. We also got pictures of the Prime Minister's Residence."

When Dee looked at his husband, Ryo laughed. "I forgot to mention that to you, but it did pale in comparison to everything else going on yesterday once we got to Budokan." He grabbed Dee's hand and exclaimed, "The moment I saw you in your stage gear, everything else left my mind. And then you were on the stage of Budokan with TUBE. Yup, forgot everything else we did yesterday before the show." He grinned at Dee.

"That's a good reason. I'll let you get away with not telling me Bikky saw the National Diet Building," said Dee. "All of you who were on the bus."

"I was so excited last night that I forgot that I'm one of the most popular idols in Japan," Ayaka said after Dafydd pulled away from saying something to her.

Dafydd smirked, and then when he saw Dee's look, he held up his hands and said, "I only told her what was being said. I didn't tell her to say something."

"He didn't," Ayaka said. "And I did. Honestly! It was so exciting last night."

"C'mon Dee," Tomiji said. "Even with Ayaka in our family, last night was a big night for us. It was very exciting."

"Okay okay, I believe you," Dee said and then laughed.

"These buildings we're passing look pretty important," Carol observed.

"They are. We're now in the government seat of Tokyo. And not just for Tokyo, but for all of Japan," Dee replied. "Notice this is the area near the moat of the Imperial Palace with the National Diet Building ahead, also across from the Imperial Palace."

Ryo stopped them at the next corner as Dee started to turn right. He stopped, along with Tomiji and SJ.

"Why are we stopping? We are going to Kasumigaseki Station, right?" Dee asked.

"Oh, there's the Metropolitan Police Department down the street across from the palace moat," Dafydd pointed out.

Bikky started to laugh. "You're a police geek too, Uncle Dafydd."

"You're lucky we didn't go into the Police Museum while we were in Ginza," Dee said with amusement. "So Ryo, what are we doing?"

"If we keep walking one more block, we'll be on Roppongi Dori," Ryo said.

Saburo started to laugh. "I know you boys want today to last, but do you really want to walk to your place from here? Especially with two babies, a toddler and two six-year-olds? And no strollers. After all the walking we already did today?"

Ryo sighed. "It was a thought, even if I know it's crazy. Especially after all the walking we did so far."

"I would love to," Dee said, "but along with young children, we also did some shopping. I know they packed the fish with ice, but do we really want to push it?"

"I know that too," Ryo said.

"What about walking down to the Metropolitan Police Building and let Bikky do some video?" Dafydd suggested. "There is also the Sakuradamon that goes onto Imperial Palace grounds. Then we can head back for the subway station."

"I still can't believe you three were inside," Bikky said. "Wow!"

"What? They were?" SJ asked. "Which three?"

Sakura smiled at SJ. "I guess your grandfather didn't tell you how Daisuke, Ryo and Dafydd spent the first part of the day on Friday after the Thanksgiving meal."

"No," Kenny said. "He didn't."

"Let's walk toward the moat and we'll fill you in," Saburo said. Looking at Dee and Ryo, he added, "It really has been quite an adventure for you."

"Tell me about it, Papa," Dee said. "And present company being the main highlight for me."

Across Sakurada-dori, the street they walked down toward the Imperial Palace, and approached the Metropolitan Police Building, Carol pointed to a long brick building on the other side of the street. "That almost looks like Tokyo Station," she said. "It also looks like a pretty important building with the guards and gates."

"Yeah, it does," Bikky agreed. "That's a cool building. What is it?"

"The Red Brick Building," Saburo replied. "Also known as the Ministry of Justice building."

Dee let out a laugh. "That's where our paperwork should have been sent to from Nagoya to be approved before we should have become citizens."

"Yes," Sakura said with a smile. "Instead they sent someone from there to Nagoya to meet with you in our Legal Affairs Bureau building. What else is here in this area, Dafydd?"

"Oh, behind the Metropolitan Police building, which while not a historically important property like the Red Brick Building, there is a much smaller building called the National Police Agency General. When I'm back in Japan after New Year's, I'm going to have come here for a couple of weeks, and meet with officials on starting my unit. I don't have to move here, but I will be seeing this area and the inside of that building a lot for a while. Dee, Ryo, you both will also probably have to show up at times since our units are to be a joint effort. Another reason why it won't be too long before you see Tokyo again. You'll probably be tired of Tokyo, or at least this area by the end of 2007."

"Great," Dee said. "I didn't think about it, but it does make sense that we should show our faces at times. Just as you coming to New York at times."

"Of course, you are welcome to stay in the penthouse while you're in Tokyo," Ryo said.

"I'm probably going to take you up on that," Dafydd said, "so thank you."

"No need. You're my twin brother," Dee said. "Of course you will stay there instead of a hotel room."

At the corner, they crossed Sakurada-dori and walked along Uchibori-dori going back toward Hibiya Park so Bikky and Carol could see more of the Ministry of Justice Red Brick Building. There were security guards at that entrance too, but Sakura spoke to one, taking out her ID. With a smile she turned to the group.

"This nice gentleman is going to escort us so we can see the front of the building." With a smirk, she added, "Yes, Daisuke, as Ryoichi Fujioka's wife, I do have some clout. And before I forget again, your grandfather will have tickets to the Sky Promenade that you can put in your trip books. Carol, you will also get one."

"Thank you, Sakura-san. That is most kind of you," Carol said as they followed the guard through the gates and onto the grounds.

The front of the building, which faced an impressive courtyard nestled between the brick building and the office building that among other businesses, the public offices of the Ministry of Justice was located, overlooking Hibiya Park was more impressive than the back. After they were allowed to take a group photo in front of the building, they were taken inside the brick building and to the Exhibition Hall on the 3rd floor. When the guard escorted them back to the gate on Uchi-dori, everyone thanked him, bowing and went on their way.

Geez, Dee's family really was powerful, Ryo thought, if all it took was his grandmother mentioning who she was to get them not only past the guards to see the other side of the building, but inside for a short tour of part of the building. They were told that if they made arrangements in advance, the next time they would be allowed to see more of the inside.

They were told that by the representative who had come to Nagoya, who they saw while inside.

The group walked to the next corner, once again across from Hibiya Park, but a corner of the park they did not cover. Since the crosswalks had them crossing over to the corner of Hibiya Park, the group went inside the park, but did not go too far into the park before crossing over Uchibori-dori and walked along the moat in the direction they had come from to the Sakuradamon. They went through the gate onto Palace Grounds.

"Are we allowed to be here?" Carol asked.

"Sure," Bikky asked, pointing ahead of them. "We were walking around here with Obāsan. Remember? Hey Dads, which way did you come into the palace?"

"Not this way," Dee laughed. "Too public. We came in from the other side of the grounds. You probably passed where we came in yesterday on the way to Budokan."

"Oh cool," Bikky said.

"I still think you're all teasing us," SJ said.

"We thought so too," Tomiji said. "I couldn't make it to Tokyo that weekend, and thought they were teasing those of us stuck in Nagoya, but it's true."

Pictures were taken of their group with the Seimon Ishibashi bridge behind them, and further was the Double Bridge at the Palace. Both bridges were closed off to the public as they led to the Imperial Family's residence. The Seimon Ishibashi bridge was among the most photographed sites in Tokyo. It had a romantic charm about it and many couples took their photos with the bridge behind them. The couples in their group were no exceptions.

With a teasing grin, Bikky asked, "Oba, are you sure you can't get us in with a flash of your ID?"

Sakura laughed and hugged Bikky. "If I could, I would, Bikky. Not even my husband can just walk up to the Imperial Residence gates without an invitation. However, maybe in time, your dads and Dafydd could get you in. After all, they know His Majesty now."

Ryo had to laugh as Dee actually paled at the possibility. He hugged Dee. "Daijoubu, Dee."

"If you insist," Dee said.

It was time to finally head back to Kasumigaseki Station and take the Hibiya line to Roppongi. Then up to the penthouse to relax a while before it was time to start preparing dinner.

And that was it, Ryo thought as they entered the penthouse. They were done with Tokyo. Except for going to Haneda Airport on a rented bus the next day, and unless someone decided to go to a nearby conbini, they were done going around Tokyo for this trip.

Ryo was glad they still had the beautiful view of the city that they now called home, along with New York. That evening they were going to have dinner on the terrace. Along with the seafood and other food that was bought that day that was to be for their dinner, there was also going to be some grilling, including some of the wagyu beef they bought in Kobe.

OoOoOoO