Date: Thu, 21 May 2009 10:13:47 -0400 From: chris james <drmeta4@gmail.com> Subject: Adam Conquers Earth, Chapter 10 Dear Reader: the following is a story of adult fiction, persons under the age of 18 are not permitted to view this material. The television audiences in Japan are more involved in their programming than we shall ever be here in the United States. The channels are filled with game shows, reality shows, comedy and drama, enough to fulfill the national obsession. Almost everything we see here in the US is also there, dubbed and sometimes not, allowing them a glimpse of our culture. Just think of how we present ourselves in an average evening of television. Pretty scary, huh? But here we go, giving the reader a glimpse of Japan. It's been a lot of years since I walked the Ginza, I'm sure modern Japan has changed dramatically. I find comfort in knowing that the ancient past never will. All comments welcomed. Chris James. <drmeta4@gmail.com> Adam Conquers Earth (M/B) Chapter Ten The stewardess brought Tim a blanket and pillow; he slid Steve over and told the boy to lay back. "It's a long flight and the sun is behind us, it will still be morning when we arrive, just a day ahead of Los Angles. If you can nap you'll feel better when we arrive." Steve laid his head in Tim's lap and snuggled up, the blanket's warmth made him drowsy and in a few short minutes he was asleep. Brian looked across the wide first class aisle and smiled. "Out already?" He asked. Tim smiled. "I don't think he slept much last night, too excited." They had been airborne for two hours, the huge jet riding smoothly at forty some thousand feet over the Pacific. Mark and Steve had slid through the airport and into the first class lounge. Tommy had lain back, watching, waiting, he too would get a vacation after they left, Tim had insisted. But maybe it was the early morning hour, no fans appeared, their passage unrecorded by photographers. Steve appeared fresh; a hot shower always did wonders. But Tim could see the sleep in his eyes, and now he would regain the rest his body needed. Mark on the other hand was sitting with an iPod, nodding his head in time to the music in his ears. The itinerary was a night or two in Tokyo, and then a quiet trip by car to the mountains of central Honshu, the main Japanese island. The place was familiar, Tim had found solace there before, but it would be Brian's first exposure to the culture. The small village would be their refuge from the outside world; the people and place seemed timeless, existing in an ancient past. His Sensei some fifteen years ago had brought Tim there to learn, to absorb the culture from which his martial arts training had sprung. This was a very real place, just one that hadn't followed the rest of the Japanese nation beyond the seventeenth century. One could believe that samurai still walked the tiny streets of the village atop this particular mountain. Isolation, peace, renewal...all that would be found there, and so would love. Tim closed his eyes after Brian picked up a book, they didn't need to converse. Behind those closed eyelids Tim could feel himself rolling back the years, entering into a memory of his first visit to Koru, the village in Yamanashi Prefecture. The ever present visage of Mt. Fuji on one side, the Japanese version of the Alps on the other. This was a secret place, a place the modern world had forgotten, and the residents liked it that way. Not many foreigners traveled there, a few hikers passing through on the way to climb Fuji, the sacred mountain, but few others. Tim had been welcomed only because he came with Sensei Namuko, Kasuto Namuko, a legend in this tiny corner of the world. A man who openly scoffed at the American fantasy idea of what samurai ought to be, ancient bullies he called them. There were better ways to follow, peaceful ways, the true way of a warrior. So now Tim would return to Koru, and Namuko would be there. A little older, always wiser, a man of understanding. For what he had begun with Steve would best be viewed in the light of Namuko's wisdom, the man was a great lover of boys. The stewardess interrupted Tim's thoughts with a question about his lunch preference; did he wish a Japanese or western meal? He thought about Steve, and ordered two Japanese; the boy had better immerse himself now. She smiled and told him ten minutes, inclining her head subtly towards the sleeping boy. The Japanese were like that, a subtle people in many ways. With so many people crammed together on four small islands, the preservation of personal space had been refined to an art. Privacy was often a matter of illusion, and to the stewardess suggesting he might wake the boy was unthinkably impolite. Steve had slept about four hours, Tim sent him to the bathroom to wash up before lunch. And would wonders never cease, the boy liked the shrimp tempura and udon noodles the stewardess brought them. The sweet rice cakes and fruit was delightful as well, maybe there was hope for Steve yet. Mark began asking questions and talking to Steve across the aisle, so Brian switched seats to allow the boys to talk. "I'm looking forward to this," Brian said. "Roughing it in the Japanese countryside sounds good to me." Tim chuckled. "Koru is small, but not poor. Kasuto Namuko is a wealthy man, he just lives simply. Of the four major estates up there he has the largest because of the school." "His dojo, I presume." "And more. Some pretty influential parents send their kids to him, he turns them into men. I haven't been there in seven years, but he had a sixteen year old lover at the time, an awesome looking boy. Kasuto is not living a monastic life, he is surrounded by beauty, much of it the two legged kind." "So the martial arts and an education for each boy? Formidable venture, he must do well," Brian said. "They begin at age ten, and by thirteen they are fearsome little warriors. The older boys leave after six years, so I don't think you'll see one over sixteen. They learn fine art, cooking, anything that assures their self sufficiency. Nudity is accepted, some try to go that way year round. I once saw a naked boy sitting in the snow, he said it built character." "Kasuto said that?" "No, the boy did...it was his choice. Some learn and engage; others just take the lessons and leave. Kasuto has been doing this for thirty years; some of his former boys are titans in Japanese business now." Brian nodded. "Wow, I imagine so." The boys watched a movie on the seat back television screen, and napped once again. By the time dinner was served it was only an hour from landing, in Tokyo it would be almost noon, their internal clocks would be slightly askew. The jet came in low over the Japanese mainland; the Narita International airport was inland, about 60 kilometers from Tokyo proper. But they saw the coastline gleaming in the morning sunlight as they flew over the Chiba Peninsula and left Tokyo Bay behind. The touchdown was smooth, as expected in a computer controlled aircraft, hardly a bump. Tim led them down the ramp into the international arrivals section, and there was a man holding a sign that said 'Real.' Tim smiled and the young Japanese man gave him a slight bow and then shook hands with each of them. "I am Hedeko Matsumoto; the Master sent me to be your guide. This way to customs, please." With that the man led them across the lobby and down a corridor. Through a white door they entered a lounge and took a seat, another man entered, a uniformed official this time and Matsumoto left. "Welcome to Japan, Mr. Real. I am Inspector Nakamura; do you have anything to declare?" "No sir, just us," Tim said. "That will be fine. Your luggage will be loaded in the car shortly. Mr. Matsumoto will see to this. There is tea on the counter, water if you wish. Please have a pleasant stay in Japan." And with that he abruptly left. Brian laughed. "OK, what was that?" "My father is well known here, this is what he calls the political lounge. Dignitaries enter the country this way, all hush, hush you know. Film stars, and even new television stars sneak in past the public this way." "You think they'll know us here?" Mark asked. "The American television audience has nothing over the Japanese viewer, they soak up our shows like sponges, and yes, they will know you on sight," Tim said. "Maybe Tommy should have come along," Steve said. Tim smiled. "No, baby...we have Japanese eyes guarding us now. Mr. Matsumoto is one of Kasuto's men, I'm sure. We'll be well protected from your adoring public." They were soon escorted into an underground garage where a dark limo awaited. Matsumoto opened doors and then slid in with them for the ride; another man was behind the wheel. The boys watched the countryside as the car sped the kilometers into Tokyo, the largest metropolitan area in the world. The countryside gave way to the clutter of buildings and houses off the highway, the suburbs seemed to press in on them. Thirty million people made it feel like that. The driver stayed on the freeways into the city and slid off an exit into streets lined with large office buildings. "The Imperial Hotel is a favored location for viewing the city," Matsumoto said. "One of our finest and most ancient hotel locations, the building was replaced some years after the war. You gentlemen may wish to visit the Hibiya Park near the hotel, or view the Imperial Palace where the Emperor lives. The Ginza is also close by, a very popular tourist destination if you wish to shop." "Thank you, Mr. Matsumoto," Tim said. "Hedeko, please...I am in charge of your security escort while here." "Your English is impeccable," Brian said. Hedeko smiled. "American University, Class of 2007." Tim laughed. "I should have known. Have you seen Kasuto recently?" Hedeko nodded. "Master Namuko will arrive tomorrow; he wishes to escort you himself because of these gentlemen." "You know us?" Mark asked. "I know of you, we have not met before." "Oh, that's what I mean," Mark said. "Your faces are known here, this is why you must have protection. Japanese fans are very excitable when they view a film or television personality, you must forgive them. But please, do not fear to walk in the city streets, we will be watching closely." "I gather Mr. Namuko has his own security business here?" Brian asked. Hedeko nodded. "The family has extensive holdings, all must be secured." "How long have you been with him?" Brian asked. "Since the age of ten." He then looked at Tim and smiled. "You do not remember me?" "Hedeko...wait, Hede-chan? My God, you have grown," Tim said. "I was a child, the 'chan' no longer applies. I was but sixteen in those days, ready to approach the world thanks to the Master. He sent me to university; I learned and came back to him." Hedeko looked at Mark and Steve. "I know only the famous personalities of these young men; will they seek a different path as well?" Tim nodded. "I bring them for an introduction to Kasuto's world; they will find it most uplifting and a source of strength." Hedeko nodded. "As did you I recall, this is a good thing. For youth is only caught up in the living, the Master gives it a sense of purpose." He turned to Brian. "And you sir, what do you seek?" "I have learned skill from Tim. I need to find the strength to use it wisely, and to pass along that wisdom to Mark," Brian said. Hedeko nodded once again. "An open mind is the first step." He sighed. "I still have great love for the Master, he returns it tenfold. He seeks comfort from others now, it is the way of things, I am not lost because of that. I have something from him that guides my life, I have his respect, and nothing pleases me more." Tim smiled. "The boy has grown into a wise young man, he must be very proud." The hotel suddenly appeared in the clutter of buildings and a doorman opened the doors of the car for them. Hedeko stepped out first and then nodded for them to exit the car. This is the way it would be, their security dictated that. The hotel was luxurious and from their adjoining suites they could look out the windows on the ancient moat and towering walls of the Imperial Palace. Hedeko slid up behind the boys and explained. "The Imperial Palace has stood for centuries, the home of the Emperor of Japan. For a very long time the person who was Emperor was considered divine, a living god. The war here changed much of that over sixty years ago. His Highness, Emperor Akihito now sits on the ancient Chrysanthemum Throne only as a figurehead, much as the Queen of England does." "So he isn't considered a god anymore?" Steve asked. "Yes, this Emperor never was. His Highness is a cultured and well educated man, knowledgeable in the ways of the world, it is necessary. For many centuries Japan isolated itself, afraid to change its ways, and that was a serious error in judgment. For in doing so we became a land of feudal lords and self serving brutes who did what they wished and oppressed the people. Isolation is never the answer; strength comes from embracing the unknown." "Are you considered samurai?" Steve asked. Hedeko smiled. "Some think so, but this is not true. I seek truth and wisdom through strength; this should always be the way you think as well. Understanding overcomes all obstacles, truth always wins in battle. Will you bathe now? I would like to show you my city." Brian and Tim had sat amused at Hedeko's lesson to the boys; they would learn a lot in just a few short weeks. The boys showered and then the men, it wasn't time to fool around. When they were done Hedeko handed each of the boys a baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses. "The disguise is thin, but it may give you a better opportunity to see without being seen," He said. He handed a cell phone to both Tim and Brian. "I am one, my backup is two," Was all he said, the speed dial was pre-programmed. "Who are the Tokyo Giants?" Mark asked, looking at the logo on the cap. They rode down the elevator talking about baseball in Japan. The afternoon streets around them were filled with cars, but they crossed the stopped traffic and entered the park. Hibiya Park was an enclosed area filled with ponds, trees and flowering plants. "This is very much a western style park," Hedeko said. "Land is scarce in this city and it took years for this area to be developed." "You don't have parks?" Mark asked. "We do, but many of them are located around great religious temples, and even...even cemeteries." "Cemeteries? Oh, that's not good, how can people use that?" Steve asked. Hedeko nodded. "The Japanese view of the dead is different than in your culture, here they are venerable ancestors and people often go to speak to their relatives. The first bit of wisdom you must learn is the understanding of that which you find strange and different." "Did...did you love a man when you were a boy?" Steve asked. Hedeko smiled. "Yes, I am like you in that regard. I loved his understanding, his wisdom and his compassion, he cared for me. At your age those feelings are not easily understood, he gave me that understanding, and the hope I needed to become strong." "We are so lucky," Steve said. "Yes we are," Hedeko replied. "But a strong man makes his own luck as well; you will discover that in time." By this time Brian had spotted their guard detail. Casually dressed young men of Hedeko's age, three of them. He mentioned this to Tim who nodded. "Yeah, I picked up on that too. I think the six of us ought to be enough for anything." "A bit of overkill?" Brian asked. "No, we'll walk out of this isolated place and hit the downtown in a while to eat. It's Friday night here, there ought to be crowds. Someone will recognize our boys." They walked a section of the moat around the Palace, not much to see, the grounds were off limits to the public. It was almost six by the time they strode the Ginza shopping district, Hedeko was taking them to a 'nice place to eat.' A couple of young Japanese girls stared at the boys, and then turned away. Hedeko lead them up a side street, and then another before turning into what could only be described as a tiny alley. Now their escort was apparent, three men closed off the way behind them. The alley led them to a quiet street, cut off from downtown and yet very much a part of it. Then there was a tall wooden gate where Hedeko rang the bell. "Konichi wa," An elderly man said, opening the door in the heavy gate, and they stepped into a different world. The man hurried ahead and Hedeko stood still. "This is an old Geisha house, it's now a restaurant," He explained. "We are very early, before the many other guests arrive, but you may be tired by the time we are done and wish to return to the hotel. Here you will experience the ancient beauty of my country, welcome." They were shown to the polished wooden floor surrounding the entrance, and they removed their shoes. A tiny young woman knelt before the boys and slipped on black tight fitting foot covers, they looked like socks. "Tabi, an indoor foot covering, it is needed on the tatami mats and keeps the house clean," Hedeko explained. The tiny woman bowed and led the way inside. They were taken to a broad room surrounded by shoji screens; the floor a broad sweep of small tightly woven tatami mats upon which they were seated. The square between them was a low lacquered table inset with a dark slate top. Several other women appeared and brought them cushions to sit upon and they settled in. Only then did the show begin. Mark and Steve sat side by side, Hedeko, Brian and Tim occupying the other three sides. The screened wall slid open and a wonderfully dressed woman appeared, a Geisha. She knelt some distance from the table and bowed, Hedeko nodded in return. "Konichi wa," She said. "I am Kiko; I will be your hostess." Her English was accented, but she obviously took great care in pronouncing the words exactly. "May I show you the garden?" "Yes, please," Brain said, assuming they would all rise and be given a tour. But Kiko rose and walked to the long wall. She placed a hand on the sliding door and pushed. First one door folded back into another and another and still another. She returned and did the same on the other side, revealing a twenty foot wide opening, and the gardens beyond. The garden was lit with small paper lanterns on poles, illuminating a waterfall, and ponds amidst the small bushes and plantings. And then over the night air came the sound of music, strange and slightly discordant. "That is Michiko playing her samisen," Kiko explained. "I will play the koto and dance for you later if you wish. May we serve you refreshment?" Hedeko ordered something in Japanese and then looked at the boys. "Do you drink beer?" "Oh yeah," Steve said, and Mark laughed. Hedeko smiled and said something else to Kiko who covered her mouth before she smiled. "I will do so," She said. She rose to her feet and shuffled in an affected manner towards the door. She knelt once more and slid it open, before nodding to someone else on the other side and speaking quietly. 'Why does she walk that way?" Mark asked Hedeko. "In ancient times, all the way back to our mutual relationship with China, women were prized for their tiny feet. Many Chinese girls who were destined for marriage had their feet bound with cloth as they grew to keep them small. It was a cruel practice and was stopped a long time ago. But the movements of Geisha are those of the willow tree swaying in the breeze, an artistic touch, and yet a subtle reminder that women who bound their feet could hardly walk at all. "Japan is a male dominated society, as is much of Asia. A woman's place is to serve, or I should say that is how it used to be. So the act of protesting the culture of men was not done with obvious means, the subtle served just as well. Geisha have always served men in private hidden places like this, and despite what you might think that means, they were not bedroom slaves." "They are entertainers, singers and musicians," Mark said. "I read about that. I didn't know they still existed." "Japan is an ancient culture, the tradition is still with us," Hedeko said. Kiko returned with small porcelain jars and tiny cups for the men, she also set two large bottles of beer on the table and placed a glass in front of each boy. Of course Mark and Steve grinned, they were about to drink beer. Kiko went around the table pouring a cup for each of the men and a half glass of the foamy brew for the boys. Hedeko raised his cup of saki. "Welcome to Japan," He said. The boys each took large sips of the beer and gasped. "Oh it burns, what is that?" Steve said. "It isn't beer," Mark said. "Beer is the product of fermentation. That is root beer, same process but no alcohol...you would call it sarsaparilla in the States," Hedeko laughed. "You tricked us," Steve said. "No, but drinking alcohol is not good for your young bodies, I would not give you anything that harms the process of growth," Hedeko said. "It tastes fine," Mark said. Their dinner was eventually served in a stream of never ending courses, and soon the table was covered in dishes. Hedeko carefully explained each dish and the boys sampled everything. Kiko entertained, dancing while accompanied by another lady who played a strange looking small guitar with a triangular box on the end. Steve was told it was called a samisen when he asked. But then Kiko opened a sliding door and slid a long flat stringed instrument into the room, a koto. The sound it made as she gently tuned it was strange; the music she played was hauntingly beautiful. Brian felt the effects of the saki creeping up, but the music and the garden view all blended together into a wonderful environment. They thanked Kiko for her concert and Hedeko saw Mark yawn behind his hand. "We should depart, you will need rest after such a long flight," He said. Brian staggered a bit and Tim gave him a hand as they slipped their shoes on. Outside on the porch there were a dozen staff members waiting. They bowed low with calls of 'return soon,' a final thank you for coming. "Lord, we have a long walk back," Steve said. "Not so," Hedeko said, and when the elderly man opened the door and bowed his farewell they saw the limo waiting outside to whisk them back to the hotel. Hedeko excused himself when they reached the lobby. "Call me when you are ready in the morning." And then he rode away. Brian had to help Mark undress, the boy was dead on his feet. Not that his saki consumption made it any easier, but they managed to brush their teeth and then slid under the covers. He kissed the boy and felt Mark kiss back; it was the last thing either of them remembered until morning. Tim was in about the same position, except that Steve was able to do his nightly routine by himself. They crawled in bed and snuggled up close. "I have you all to myself for a whole month," Steve mumbled. "Sleep, baby...for tomorrow we will learn what love really means," Tim said. He felt Steve's body relax into his, the boy was out and he would soon follow. He hoped Kasuto would approve of his choice, that meant he would look beyond the beauty on the surface and probe the boy's character. Steve would fare well, he had the strength. And Tim slept. Brian awoke to the feeling of Mark's lips on his left nipple. The boy giggled when he knew Brian was awake. "Oh, you hungry already?" Brian asked with a grin "You won't get any milk out of that." "Hmm," Mark moaned, "But I know where to get another kind of creamy goody." He kissed his way south and by the time he got there Brian had a raging erection. Mark opened his mouth and slid himself down until his nose was buried in Brian's pubes. He swallowed three times and Brian groaned, then the boy slid his way back up. The boy knew how to do it right, he'd had a lot of practice. But Brian wasn't about to let Mark have all the pleasure, so he slid his way around and returned the favor. They knew each other well enough by now to know every signpost on the way to orgasm. It would rise up and then fall as they each backed down, delaying the inevitable. But Brian was afraid Tim might be up and knock on the adjoining door any time, he went for the gold. Mark sensed the urgency and fell in step, getting his reward a few minutes later and thinking it was better than mother's milk. They both slumped on the bed, sated, a mouth filled with tasty delight and the sweet odor of sex permeating the sinuses. Then they got up to shower. Tim had the boy humping his face and Steve was trembling with anticipation. The finger rubbing his butt hole was driving him insane and he drove his body against Tim's face, and then the finger slid inside, a first. His body felt on fire, and the finger slid ever deeper, filling him until...until...Oh My God, what was that? The little nub of Steve's prostate yielded slightly under Tim's finger and he felt the boy react. The trembling and thrusting took on a new urgency and Steve almost yelled as he surrendered to the feelings and exploded a major load of cum. And he kept on going, no two squirt wonder this time, his balls emptied themselves and fell between his legs exhausted. Steve leaned on the headboard afraid to move and he gasped as that finger was slowly withdrawn. "Oh God...what did you do to me?" Steve groaned when he felt the sudden emptiness. "A little prostate massage, you know what that is?" Tim asked. Steve pushed off the wall and slid down onto Tim's chest. "Yeah, the little gland that makes seminal fluid...damn, it feels like that?" Tim smiled. "Baby, why do you think getting fucked feels so good?" "Oh yeah, then I'm all for that." "Rain check, OK? Maybe in a year or so." "Aww, I'll be an old boy by then," Steve groaned, and Tim cracked up laughing. Steve reached around behind and grasped Tim's semi rigid cock. It was covered in slime, Tim had leaked furiously as Steve fucked his face. The boy clasped his legs together trapping that expanding little monster as he held it tight against the crack of his ass. Tim knew what he wanted and began to move. The weekend before Steve had pulled Tim down and sat on his cock. No penetration but Tim rubbed the crease, his cock passing back and forth over Steve's tight little back door. He loved it, they both did...and they could dream it was real. Steve clenched his legs, crossing his ankles and squeezing hard as he could. It felt tight, and the boy's hand did the rest. Despite his orgasm three minutes before Steve felt his cock harden again and Tim grinned. "Go for it, baby" That cock rubbing his hole, and the thrusting into Tim's stomach felt divine. He felt Tim stiffen and he went with the flow, Steve throbbed and came yet again. Tim felt the small warm offering flow between them and let go, groaning as he spurted, covering Steve's back and ass with warm living seed. Now the boy was spent and Tim carried him to the bathroom and placed him on his feet. Steve giggled as he felt cum run down his back. "I've been slimed," He laughed. "You love it, hand me the shampoo," Tim said. He washed Steve first, one of the most sensual experiences he'd ever encountered. And then the boy returned the favor, focused, gentle...the caress of a lover. It was all so good, they had to kiss and that turned into a five minute make out session. Steve was insatiable; Tim wouldn't have it any other way. Tim put his ear to the door after they dressed and heard the television in Brian's room so he knocked. Brian opened the door. "Morning, did you ring Hedeko yet?" "Nope, I'll do that now." Two rings and the man answered. "We're up and ready," Tim said. "I'm down in the restaurant reading the Times. I'll order you coffee," Hedeko said, and then hung up. They joined Hedeko only a few minutes later and the waiter brought their menus. "Oh, goodie, they have bacon and eggs," Steve said. "What do the Japanese eat for breakfast?" Hedeko smiled. "Let's see, dried fish and rice usually, sometimes with an egg on the side." "Is that what we're going to eat in the mountains?" Steve asked. "I suppose so, this is Japan you know," Tim said. "Oh Jeez," Steve groaned, and they all laughed. Hedeko patted Steve's hand. "The master runs a very large estate; there are many animals and crops grown there. He has two cooks, one is a fine chef. So I imagine you may eat what you wish, but the Japanese traditional food will taste better." "If I can just get the occasional hamburger I'll be happy," Steve said. "I would love to have a Whopper for lunch," Hedeko said. "What? You eat hamburgers?" Steve asked. "Oh yes, I ate them a lot when I was in college, I virtually lived at Burger King." So as they waited for breakfast, the boys, including Hedeko, swapped stories about the perfect hamburger. His age of twenty-three aside, Hedeko was still a big kid when it came to memories of his time in America. It drew Mark and Steve closer to the man. They ate the eggs and bacon, ordering extra toast twice. Hedeko said they would need to go shopping if the boys didn't have the right hiking gear. Brian hadn't thought about that either. He had perfectly good climbing boots at home in the closet. But Mark and Steve had nothing for the long walks ahead; they would need to be outfitted. Hedeko led them out to the parking garage and they boarded the limo, a black sedan followed close behind. The Shibuya shopping district was one of the largest in Tokyo; they had everything, including a lot of American franchise businesses. The car stopped on a side street away from the main thoroughfare, no sense in attracting attention right away. The little sedan pulled in behind them. Hedeko led them in a side entrance to a shopping mall and they rode the escalator up two floors. Young ladies looked at Mark and Steve, probably because no one else was wearing sun glasses indoors. They approached a place called Expedition Outfitters, the name in both English and Japanese. Their three shadows remained outside. Hedeko had the attention of all four clerks as he started issuing orders, and they fairly ran to fetch and carry. Steve was amused by all this, Mark just grinned. They sat in chairs and piles of outdoor boots appeared, Mark chose the Timberland styles, Steve went along with that. Jackets and sweatshirts for the cool nights in the mountains, extra thick socks for the boots, and they were about done. Hedeko led them to a rack of pack backs and they each chose one, adding an emergency kit and canteens as well. The clerks awaited further orders and Hedeko issued them, the clerks bowed and they turned towards the door. There were maybe twenty girls gathered around and they shrieked as the boys walked out, they were nailed. "Adam-san...is this you?" One girl asked. And Mark nodded. More shrieks and the girls gathered around, cell phone cameras pointed while still others called their friends about the sighting. "Steve-san...you so handsome," One girl said in good English. "Why do you come to Tokyo?" And Hedeko smiled as boys began to talk, "We finished the first season, did you watch?" Mark asked. The girls all nodded. "You are so funny, we laugh and laugh," A girl said. The average Japanese student takes several years of English; they could all understand him quite well. Mark talked about the season, and the things they hoped to do in the future. Steve was complimented about his basketball skills, and they were both pressed for autographs. "Why do you come to Tokyo?" The question asked again. Mark smiled and blew the girls a kiss. "We came to see you," He yelled. There were fifty girls now and boys as well, they all screamed at that. The shoppers watched and smiled, mall security arrived. "Let's go," Hedeko suggested and they pushed their way towards a back hallway as a security elevator opened to admit them. The screams faded away as they dropped two floors and slid out a side door once again. "That was fun," Mark said. Hedeko nodded. "They love you. The biggest bunch of star struck fans in the world live here. If you went public we'd have to rent a football stadium for the crowd." "They were polite at least," Steve said. They rounded a corner and saw a bunch of girls gathered in front of the mall. They shrieked when they saw the boys and came running. The limo pulled up and they piled in, shutting the doors about two seconds before the girls arrived. The security team pressed the girls back as the car pulled slowly away. Hedeko laughed. "By tonight the world will know you are here, your faces will be all over the internet. Then the girls will stake out the city looking for you, and so will the photographers. I think it's time Master Namuko took you away from here." "He's right," Tim said. "I know you love the attention, fans are a real ego boost. But we can't control the crowds, and there are thirty million Japanese out there in this city, not good odds." "OK, we head for the hills," Mark said. "What about our stuff?" "It will reach the hotel within the hour by messenger, I just hope he isn't followed," Hedeko said. They drove back under the hotel and the boys climbed out, then Hedeko smiled. "You stay in the room for a bit, I'll be back for lunch." The small sedan parked and the three men got out as the limo took Hedeko away. Tim led them back up to the rooms where the boys promptly got into a television program. Brian sat with Tim in the other room and they had a beer from the mini-bar. Brian looked at the beer bottle. "I bet they charge ten bucks for one of these." "Naw, that's Asahi beer, local brew...only nine ninety-five," Tim laughed. "So Namuko, what's he like?" Brian asked. "You see what he's done for Hedeko, he's a wonderful teacher. The culture of competition is so severe here. Students commit suicide rather than tell their parents they flunked out of college, that's severe. But Kasuto alters the mindset; he makes the boys smart and teaches them about life. Not all of them wish to sleep with him, he never asks for that, but those who do end up like Hedeko, a made man." "Isn't that risky, I don't know what the laws are here," Brian said. Tim shook his head. "Bad as anywhere else, he'd be crucified. But thirty years of silence, the boys don't want anyone to know." "So you admired him for all these years, and knew what he was into," Brian said. "Why did it take you so long to come around?" Tim nodded. "Fair question, I was scared. I have a lot to lose, and besides, I didn't know anyone this young until I met Steve. He's perfect for me; it's all new to us both." "Yeah, he is exceptional," Brain agreed. "You make it sound like Namuko will pass judgment on Steve somehow, why exactly do you want his blessing?" "He is the most perceptive man I ever met, he can look right into your head and see what you're thinking, I swear. I just want to know what he thinks of Steve before...before I make it a lifetime commitment. I love the boy, no doubt about that. But he's young, what if, huh? What if he finds someone like Mark and blows me off?" "He's not going to do that. Sure there are any number of boys that learn what they want from a man and say good-bye. But look what you have to offer, and I don't mean in dollars." "You're a father figure to Mark, is that what I need to become?" Tim asked. "No, Steve has a father, not a strong one but he's there," Brian said. "Steve wants a Sensei; he wants that from you, a lifetime guide and teacher. I get that, young gay boys are insecure, you override that fear. Mark is my partner, I never felt better about being equals with a boy, he's all that to me and then some." "That's what I want from Steve," Tim said. "What do you want?" Steve asked from the doorway. Tim smiled. "You, baby...for the rest of my life." Steve sped across the carpet and threw himself in Tim's arms. "I'm all yours." Brian smiled as they kissed and then looked up at Mark who had followed behind. He walked across the carpet and sat on Brian's lap. "Someone start a love fest and forget to tell me?" Mark asked. Brian kissed him and they turned to watch Tim kissing Steve. "They do that very well," Mark said. "Boys are kissable, you know." "I sure know that," Brian said. "I think a lot of tongue action is overrated though, unless it's up my butt," Mark said. "You get plenty of that," Brian replied. Steve was shaking and pulled away from Tim's mouth, laughing hysterically. "Oh shut up," He groaned. "I think they want some private time," Brian said, and then there was a knock on the door. "That must be Hedeko." Steve adjusted the huge erection in his pants. A futile gesture, there was no place for it to go. Brian went to the door and let Hedeko in, and he held out two large shopping bags with the Burger King logo on them. "I brought lunch." He said. The boys lay on the bed while the three men sat around the table as they ate. "The Master called, he will be here within an hour," Hedeko said. "He will be happy to see you." The bedside phone rang and Hedeko got up to answer it, spoke a few words and nodded, then hung up. "The clothing is here. They will bring it up" And then his cell phone rang and he looked at the text message on his screen. "Clothing and fans I'm afraid, they have found you. My security detail is watching them out front. We shall use the garage to exit this afternoon." They cleaned up the lunch debris and Steve gave Hedeko a hug. "Thank you, that hit the spot," He said. "See, and we both profit from the transaction, how nice." The clothes arrived and shortly thereafter so did Namuko. His presence was announced by a single knock on the door, Hedeko went to answer. He bowed as the man entered the room, and they embraced as a familiar greeting. Brian was impressed by the man's presence, but he looked like a Japanese peasant farmer. Namuko wore traditional Japanese garb, loose billowing trousers and a long sleeve jacket tied with a sash. His face commanded attention, and so did the guards he brought along. Two boys, all of twelve years of age stood back behind their master, dressed alike and looking like him except for the mask of fierce determination on their faces. "Tim," The man said, and they embraced as well. "How well you've grown," Namuko said, and then he turned to Brian. As if sensing the strength he faced, Namuko gave a slight bow. "And you must be Brian, Tim has spoken of you." Brian returned the small bow and smiled. "Thank you Sensei, it's good to finally meet you." Namuko gestured right and left. "This is Kenji and Edward, my students. Oh, and they now fancy themselves my guardians as well." The boys both bowed low and Brian and Tim both returned the gesture. Then Namuko turned to gaze at Mark and Steve. The boys stood uneasily, not sure what they should do in the way of greeting. "Do you fear an old man?" Namuko asked. Mark smiled. "No, only respect keeps me silent." Namuko looked over at Brian. "This is your young friend, yes?" Brian nodded. "He understands the moment well," Namuko said. He turned back to Steve. "And you must be the young man Tim has spoken about." Namuko held out his arms and paused. "Do you know what I wish?" He asked, and Steve nodded but didn't move. Namuko smiled. "He who hesitates is lost, young one." And Steve stepped forward into the embrace. He finally held Steve back at arms length. "Such beauty do my eyes behold." He reached over and squeezed Mark's arm. "The both of you are fine young men, it warms an old man's heart. Welcome to you both, we will have such fun together." Kenji smiled and Namuko looked his way. "You find something amusing, my young pigeon?" "No Master, they do not yet understand the meaning of our fun, this makes me smile." "Then when we get home you may demonstrate fun for them, will that please you?" Kenji bowed. "If you wish." "Kenji has learned English from his father since the age of five, he speaks quite well. Edward knows three languages already, they earned the right to travel with me here," Namuko said. "Now I suppose we had best leave before the young ladies in front of the hotel get bolder, we shall use the back door." Kenji and Edward carried the bags of clothing while Mark and Steve rolled their suitcases along, Brian and Tim brought up the rear. Hedeko ordered the elevator to the basement garage and they saw Namuko's car, a Ford Expedition. He saw the look. "What did you expect? We are going to the mountains, gentlemen." Hedeko went for the driver's door and Namuko raised his eyebrows. "You wish to drive? So be it, no one trusts the old man anymore." "You are not old, Master, just wise to let me drive while you rest." Namuko laughed. "You should be prime minister, such an obvious politician." The bags went in back, and the men crawled in. Mark squeezed in between Kenji and Edward in the back seat, Steve between Brian and Tim, Namuko took the passenger seat. Hedeko pulled out of the garage and sped onto the freeway heading south and west out of the city. "Once we drive beyond the smoke and dust of the city you will see Fuji-san," Namuko said. "It is worshiped by many, the name thought to mean immortal, but no one really knows. It has lain quiet for over three hundred years." "What does he mean quiet?" Steve asked. "It's a volcano, and it can spit fire and ash when it gets hot, but there are sufficient prayers said to keep it quiet for now." Namuko chuckled. "I still look at the mountain every time the earth shakes." "Now what does he mean?" Steve asked. "Earthquakes, Steve...nothing to worry about," Tim said. Namuko turned to look at the boy. "Fear is like a sponge, my young friend; it soaks up your strength. The ground shakes the least in the country where I live, the mountains hold it down. The tectonic plates along the coast are always shifting and the pressure builds up until it lets go, then we have an earthquake in Tokyo, but not in Koru." "OK...thank you," Steve said. "Knowledge defeats fear and gives us strength, remember that," Tim said. "Yeah," Steve said. The city slowly fell away and the vision of Mt. Fuji rose through the front window of the truck. Kenji was busy explaining to Mark how he had hiked the mountain last year, calling it a spiritual journey. Mark liked the boy already; he was willing to talk and didn't seem full of himself. Edward was the quiet one, but Mark didn't see that as a weakness, the boy contemplated everything. Finally the boy spoke. "The Master says you are on an American television program, what does that mean?" "Television, the program is a comedy, we make people laugh," Mark said. Like, duh? ` "I have never seen a television." "Never? Oh Jeez, how is that possible?" "There are no such things in Koru, we don't need them," Edward said. "What does it do?" "Um, it shows pictures broadcast in the air from a station...I don't now what to say?" "Then say nothing," Edward said, obviously not disappointed. Mark wondered what they had wandered into here. Fuji-san remained in sight as they continued west, and now the distant mountains came closer, they were headed uphill. In all, the trip on the freeway took two hours; the trip off the highway took one hour more. They passed through numerous farm villages and small towns, many clinging to the side of a hill. And then they turned off the narrow highway. The track was covered by trees as they wound around the side of one hill after another, going higher each time and then they came to a clearing and a large gravel covered lot where a dozen cars sat. Hedeko pulled into a spot by a long low shed and stopped. "We're here," Hedeko announced cheerfully. The low shed, the trees and the sky...there was nothing else. "And where might here be?" Mark asked. "Koru is over there, we stop here," Edward said. "Cars are forbidden." Hedeko laughed at their astonishment. "Come, let us find you each a bicycle." The shed was filled with bikes, some with wheeled carts attached to carry their luggage. And once everyone was outfitted they took off in single file towards the trees. The bike trail was smooth and flat, big enough for a small car and yet Hedeko also said they were forbidden. Once under the trees they followed the path and rode for maybe five minutes until the sky was once again above them and the village lay in their path. There were shops selling groceries and sundry items, a bakery and several small places to eat. All looked ancient, as did the people. Those who walked stood aside as they approached and when they saw Namuko they bowed and he nodded in return. They made quite a procession through the town and then they were on the outskirts again. Here they could see the glory of the mountains surrounding this high peak and in the near distance Fuji-san loomed. Namuko led them onwards and turned left at a crossroads. They wheeled under an ornate and ancient Tori gate, passing through a formidable set of newer looking security gates, and onto a gravel roadway. Buildings appeared tucked into the trees, large structures and beyond that stood what could only be described as a castle. "Oh Wow," Steve exclaimed. And it was towards that castle they rode. A bell rang somewhere near the large stone structure and boys appeared. From every direction they came running, all towards the head of the path where they fell in line. Brian wasn't sure, there had to be thirty of them at least. They ranged in ages from ten to sixteen, and Brian laughed, a few of them were naked, the rest in white Gi, the dojo uniforms. Namuko stopped his bike and got off, laying it on the ground. "Hai," an older boy yelled, and they all bowed as one. Namuko strode the length of the line and smiled before he returned the bow. The boys broke ranks and mobbed him, the smaller ones reaching for a hug; the others patted his arms and back. Their little caravan had stopped to watch and Brian found himself beside Hedeko. "They welcome him home, it is like this every time he leaves, they love him so," Hedeko said. "What a lucky man," Brian said. "What is this place?" "The original watchtower was built five hundred years ago, it has since been expanded. The buildings over there are the boy's quarters, divided by age of course. The dojo is there, the playing fields behind the house and the school is over there. Teachers live in the town and come here every day, four of them. "The gates are closed every night and no one is allowed in or out. The boys eat in the kitchen building, also behind the house, where the cooks also teach them about cooking. We often eat with them as a sign of solidarity, its great fun. The boys put on entertainments of many kinds, Kenji will perform tonight to meet the Master's wishes." "This is like a small paradise," Brian said. Hedeko smiled. "In many ways it is, the discipline of the arts is tough, the hand of the Master is kind and fair. All who come here will leave with understanding; this will be so for you and your boys." "I don't know what to expect," Brian said. "Expect nothing, embrace all. Give yourself over to the thoughts this place evokes and you will be a changed man, a better man. We have our fun to balance the hard work, sometimes the boys run wild, and it is allowed for their sake. You see the naked ones; there is no dress code here except in the dojo. Feel free to do as you please, the Master will guide your steps." "Where will we stay?" Brian asked. "In the tower, it has the best view on the whole mountain, you will see what I mean at dawn." A group of older boys helped them carry the bags inside and up the stone staircase. Here it became apparent where the new and the old came together. This was a feudal castle surrounded by a house, a fortress on the mountain. The bedroom assigned to Mark and Brian was half the tower wide, a long rectangular room, and he imagined Tim's room looked much like this as well. A door led to their bathroom, large and comfortable, both a shower and a tub, modern plumbing at least. The bed looked fit for a king, and yet there was no mattress. Futons piled high on a tatami base, a Japanese bed all the way. Mark looked around and then walked to the doors which opened out onto a balcony. "Oh God...come look at this," He said. Mt. Fuji filled the opening; it was just out of reach, a spectacular view. They stepped out and saw the other buildings below and noticed their balcony adjoined Tim's. "Hedeko said the view was best at dawn," Brian said. "If that's east I know what happens," Mark said. "This is the land of the rising sun, and we're standing in paradise," Brian said. "Only because you're here," Mark said. "This place is full of surprises, I wonder what comes next?" "Expect nothing, embrace all, Hedeko told me...guess we'll soon find out."