The moment of truth had arrived. All of us were in agreement as to the best selection to replace me as the administrative head of Alpha Zulu. Captain Xavier Francisco Sanchez was undoubtedly without equal and I couldn't imagine finding a better man in any branch of the military. Selecting the right man to replace Arkyn was far more difficult. Arkyn leads the tactical side of Alpha Zulu and his proficiency was without equal. Only one man came close and that was a young 1^st Lieutenant with a combat record any soldier would be proud to have.

 

Three tours in the middle east, five purple hearts, three silver stars, two bronze stars, commendation after commendation from his commanding officer and still a humble proud soldier. This was definitely an officer our Alpha Zulu soldiers could respect and follow into any combat situation. This was not an officer who would lead from behind his desk.

 

Before we gave the three remaining officers the bad news, we wanted the two men we selected to meet with POTUS and have the selection process finalized. If for any reason POTUS "black balled" one of our two selections, we wanted to keep the three officers which we didn't select as a "safety valve".

 

As our candidates returned to their billet at the Marriott, a knock at the door had Captain Sanchez in near shock. Standing before him was a three star Lieutenant General requesting admittance. Inviting the General in, the Captain stood at attention as the General extended the compliments of the President and requested his presence in the Oval Office at 1000 hours tomorrow.

 

He then pulled one of his patented "vanishing acts" and onto the next assignment given him by POTUS. POTUS spent the evening reviewing the military record of Captain Sanchez and agreed with the committee he was indeed the right man for the job. The "meet and greet" with POTUS went without incident. As their meeting ended, POTUS congratulated Captain Sanchez commenting he was indeed the right man for the job. POTUS had one last question: "Would you take a bullet to protect the life of an imp"? Without any hesitation he answered a resounding YES!

 

Congratulations Colonel Sanchez and welcome to Alpha Zulu.

 

As Colonel Sanchez returned to the Marriott definitely in need of a double Scotch neat, 1^st. Lieutenant Alexander Bradley would soon face his meeting with destiny. To say Lt. Bradley was intimidated at the thought of meeting with POTUS was indeed an understatement. POTUS was impressed with the quality of candidates selected by our HR Dream Team and the finalists selected by Alpha Zulu and our Washington Power Brokers. Everyone hoped it would be a long, long time before our Alpha Zulu Generals would be at the helm of Worthington Industries.

 

As our morning staff meeting was finishing at Fort Connor OPS announced we have a voice only call from a Sheriff Metzger in West Virginia. How should they handle it? Advising OPS to send him through, we asked the Command Master Sergeant to stay and we greeted our old friend the Sheriff asking how we can be of service.

 

"Generals, we have a problem that is going to result in the needless death of a wonderful young mountain boy. His family threw him out of their home because he told them he was gay. He left with only the clothes on his back. The Vances have offered him a roof over his head but he is too proud to accept charity even from them. He needs help and that is what I am asking of you. Find a way to save his life."

 

Arkyn and I looked at each other and knew the answer. Sheriff, we will be arriving tomorrow. Will you try to find a birth certificate for this young man. Advise the Vances their normal maintenance team will be arriving earlier than expected. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

 

Asking OPS to connect us with Luke Worthington and tell him it is a matter of life and death. Almost instantly Luke was on our video screen wanting to know how he could assist us. Reading him in on the problem he was appalled any family could throw out their flesh and blood just because he was gay. "What can I do?" The maintenance team that is scheduled to leave for West Virginia next week... can you have them ready to leave at 0800 hours tomorrow morning. CONSIDER IT DONE!

 

Luke had one final suggestion. This young man has no reason to trust any adult. The adults he loved and trusted threw him away. Take Thomas with you and let him have a chance to convince this young man imp to imp our intentions are honorable. Tony is "16 going on 30" and I know Thomas will better relate to our orphan. I have the Governor of West Virginia on speed dial and I'll make our attorney's aware of the situation if you need them to get involved. Now, GO SAVE THAT PRECIOUS IMP!

 

Asking the Command Master Sergeant to prepare a security detail for departure at 0700 hours tomorrow and I'll make the mess aware we'll need an early breakfast before we leave.

 

Asking OPS to have Thomas Worthington report to my office immediately. A very terrified young imp knocked at the door of my office wondering what he had done this time. I asked Thomas to get comfortable as I needed his help and YOU my young imp will make the difference whether a young man lives or dies.

 

Reading Thomas in on the problem and what we hoped to accomplished... I warned him not to try and sell Alpha Zulu to the young man, he may not be educated but he is far from dumb. Just be his friend while the maintenance staff do their thing and I'll have the Command Master Sergeant make certain to drag out the work to give you ample time.

 

Thomas had heard the men talking frequently about the beauty of the Vance property in West Virginia and he did look forward to seeing it first hand. Thomas couldn't imagine how any parents could throw their flesh and blood out to fend for himself just because he was gay. He remembered his days in the orphanage wondering if he would ever have another family. He had been truly blessed when the Worthingtons adopted him and offered him a life he never could have imagined.

 

Thomas had a little over 12 hours to talk with Tony and some of his Alpha Zulu friends and get their suggestions on how to convince a rejected young man that we want to help with no strings attached. This was the most important task Luke had ever asked of him and he would do everything within his power to make Luke proud and save this young man.

 

Alpha Zulu Actual left Fort Connor precisely at 0700 hours picking up the maintenance staff from Worthington Air Field and continuing on to Wright Patterson AFB in Ohio. The drive to West Virginia was a beautiful trip and arriving at the Vance's they were greeted as old friends. The Vance's apologized as they only had leftovers from Lunch to share with them but Caleb brought back enough "fresh kill" we have plenty of leftovers.

 

"Caleb, so that is his name"... finishing his meal Thomas asked where he could find Caleb. The Vance Cuz's commented Caleb spends most of his time in the barn, he loves animals. We've offered him a bedroom in the house, but he refuses. He is one proud Mountain boy.

 

Thomas asked to be excused and walked out of the house and to the barn. Entering the barn he heard sounds coming from the hay loft. Slowly working his way up to the barn loft, he stuck his head up and asked if there was room for him also. Caleb was shocked to see another person his age visiting the Vances. Thomas explained the Vances were distance relatives and this was his first trip to West Virginia to visit them.

 

"I hear there is a beautiful mountain waterfall that I was told I had to see before I returned to Washington. Would you have time to show it to me this afternoon? Caleb smiled feeling wanted and needed for the first time in days.

 

Advising the Command Master Sergeant Caleb was taking him to show him the mountain waterfall he had heard so much about. "I have my com if we get into any trouble." The Vances gave Caleb a gun and asked him to see what fresh kill he could bring back for dinner.

 

The trip up the mountain with the fall colors was beautiful and it gave Thomas ample time to talk about himself and how the Worthingtons had adopted him and his brother. I have 400 Alpha Zulu "big brothers" that keep me in line and when my brother Tony and I act up we end up naked on top of the parade ground flagpole at dawn. They do it because they love us and we do GET EVEN! (That had both imps roaring in laughter.)

 

As Caleb and Thomas sat beside the waterfall just enjoying the beauty of the mountain, there was a noise behind them and Caleb instinctively put himself between Thomas and the noise in case it was a predator and a danger to his friend.

 

As three young men appeared in the clearing they only commented: "What do we have here?" A faggot mountain boy and his fairy friend. Is your friend a tight fuck? I bet he sucks your cock really good. We have three prime pieces of man meat that need some warm lips wrapped around them and plenty of hot cum to shoot down your throats.

 

Caleb advanced forward and stood between the three bullies and Thomas. "Apologize to my friend, now!" Or what? You going to beat us with your purse? "Either apologize or be prepared to settle this by the code of the mountain!" Do you really think you can take on the three of us and win? When we get done with you, we will be fucking your ass raw and then show your friend what getting fucked by a mountain man feels like.

 

Caleb went into a rage, tackled the first boy closest to him and putting him unconscious on the ground. He side stepped the second one and sent him careening against a large tree stunned and no longer any threat. Now he faced the leader who lost a lot of his bluster when his two friends went down in a blaze of glory. It took less than five minutes to have this bully pinned to the ground with Caleb rutting his crotch into the ass of the looser.

 

I can handle the insults you give to me, but my friend... he doesn't deserve your disrespect. There is only one way you are going to learn a lesson. Caleb raised his waist enough to pull this bullies pants down to his knees exposing his bare ass. As Caleb dropped his bib overalls Thomas gasp at the size of the appendage hanging between Caleb's legs.

 

Slapping the head of his cock against the plump ass of the bully, he was begging Caleb to forgive him. "I'm a virgin, I've never been fucked... you'll tear up my ass with that monster cock of yours!" His continual pleas fell upon deaf ears as Caleb spit on his cock head, lined it up and slammed his pelvis forward impaling this coward until he was balls deep in his ass.

 

He might have been a virgin when he started this fight but there was no doubt in Thomas's mind he lost both of his anal cherries on the first thrust. The howls and screams coming from his mouth as Caleb relentlessly fucked him. Thomas was amazed at the sexual energy Caleb exhibited and could see orgasm after orgasm pumping his seed into this bully in revenge.

 

As his two buddies were returning to a conscious level they looked upon the horror of their friend taking every inch of Caleb's monster cock and screaming as he had his ass plowed and seeded.

 

Caleb finally pulled out of this tight ass, turned to his buddies and told them to get the hell out of here before he decided they would meet the same fate. The three young men left Caleb and Thomas as they quickly left the area wondering how they were going to explain to their family their oldest brother not only lost the fight but got his brains fucked out and his cherry ass destroyed.

 

Caleb came over to Thomas and sat down and apologized for what had just happened. If I hadn't defended the code of the Mountain it would have been you getting your ass tag teamed by the three of them. I would never let any harm come to you.

 

Thomas wrapped his arms around Caleb and they both cried knowing the sacrifice each would make for the other. Thomas finally controlled his emotion and thanked Caleb for protecting him. "May I ask a personal question?" Go for it! How in the hell did you get a cock any mule would be proud to show off?

 

Caleb looked Thomas directly in the eyes and told him it is more of a curse than a blessing. The girls like to feel and fondle it but won't let it anywhere near between their legs. Even the boys who enjoy getting "cornholed" won't consider letting me fuck them. The only sex I ever get is with the palm of my hand.

 

That was about to abruptly change as Thomas quickly positioned himself between Caleb's legs and for the first time in his life Caleb felt the silky warmth of a mouth enveloping his cock. Almost instantly Thomas was flooded with the sweet essence of this mountain boy. Thomas rose, wrapped his arms around his new friend and gave him a passionate kiss that had both of their balls exploding within seconds.

 

Both young men walked hand in hand back down the mountain to the Vance home. No, they didn't bring home dinner but they brought home a feeling and desire that would never be broken.

 

Suddenly, Caleb gave Thomas a hard shove and sent him sprawling down a steep incline. "What in the hell?" Caleb was holding his arms as a large rattlesnake slithered away. Thomas immediately applied his belt above the snake bite. Hitting his wrist com he declared a medical emergency and needed an immediate evac to the closest trauma center.

 

The Command Master Sergeant heard the request and went into instant panic mode. Asking OPS for their GPS coordinates, the Alpha Zulu team were off running through the woods with the Vance's attempting to keep up.

 

Fortunately, for everyone Roger was on duty and it wasn't Caleb's time to leave this earth. Admiral M. McLain Matteson was returning from an inspection tour of Coast Guard facilities in the Great Lakes Area when her pilot advised her he had intercepted a emergency transmission requesting medical assistance. Given the GPS coordinates they were less than five minutes away.

 

Admiral Matteson advised Alpha Zulu OPS she was in the air aboard Coast Guard Hilo #1 and was five minutes away and could offer assistance. Alpha Zulu was shocked when a Coast Guard helicopter landed in the clearing and a four star admiral emerged and offered assistance.

 

As Admiral Matteson and her staff exited the helicopter, they would remain behind so there was ample room for the patient, Thomas, and the paramedics. The pilots advised the closest trauma center would be at Wright Patterson. The Admiral advised the pilots not to worry about the fuel or the maintenance... max this bird out and advise the hospital of your ETA.

 

The Admiral turned to her staff and only commented she hoped they were wearing comfortable shoes because we are walking down this mountain. As the Admiral and her staff finally reached the Vance home, they were made comfortable as the Vance's broke out the RESERVE STOCK of their prize Moonshine.

 

As Coast Guard One landed at Wright Patterson they were met by a military ambulance, physician and prepared to immediately administer snake antivenom. Being transported to the trauma center, the medical director and hospital administrator were adamant that no child and especially no dog would be allowed in the patient area.

 

Everyone instantly saw a side of Thomas they had never seen before. Advising the pair they could either stand down or be prepared to face his friendly guardian standing at his side. As the director of nursing attempted to grab Thomas and remove him, she found herself facing a snarling Wolf, fangs bared, gums pulled back and snapping at her body until she backed away from Thomas.

 

As the hospital administrator ordered his security to shoot that dog, the Command Master Sergeant advised the men if you draw down on that dog it will be the last thing you do in this life. Hearing the bolts of their Bull Pup Rifles chambering the first round, they decided the money they made wasn't worth facing off against the United States Army.

 

Within the hour Luke walked into the hospital with a contingent of Ohio State Patrol. They were under orders from the Governor to offer any and all assistance to the Military in this medical emergency. Anyone who causes any problem will be arrested and charged with obstruction.

 

Thomas was in tears as he clutched onto Luke. "Dad, if Caleb hadn't pushed me out of the way that snake would have bit me and it would be me fighting for my life!"

 

Luke asked to speak to the doctor in charge of treating Caleb. What is the condition of the patient? Being advised the fast transport to the trauma center definitely contributed to the young man having any chance for survival. He is going to be one very sick boy, but we are hopeful he will make a full recovery.

 

Luke took the hand of his son and asked the doctor for directions to the hospital chapel. As they knelt in prayer, they asked God to save this young man who had already faced so many hardships in his life. Almost immediately, Caleb rallied and the doctors for the first time were optimistic he would make a full recovery.

 

Caleb spent a week in the trauma center and the doctors would only release him to travel if he was transported by Ambulance to the plane. Thomas had to smile when he heard the ambulance driver ask: "Who in the hell is this patient"? I have a four star General on sentry duty at the main gate waving us through.

 

As Luke left the hospital, he handed Caleb's physician a Worthington Courtesy Card and only commented he had connections throughout the medical community both public, private and military. Any time he needed assistance, just call the number of this card. Luke quietly left the hospital and joined Caleb and Thomas as the flew to Fort Connor aboard Worthington Actual.

 

Luke turned to Thomas and recommended he have a long chat with Caleb before we reach Fort Connor and he has to face Doc. The more you prepare him, the easier it will be on all of us.

 

Thomas warned Caleb just to go with the flow and accept Doc is just being a conscientious doctor. He is without equal as a physician and really is a "teddy bear" who has the hard shell gruff exterior he projects as his alter ego.

 

Back at the Vance home, a knock on the door brought the smiling face of the local sheriff coming up the mountain looking for a bunch of Coast Guard folks. Admiral Matteson introduced herself and ask how she could be of assistance.

 

There is a guy by the name of POTUS who wants you back in Washington and has a jet sitting at our local airport waiting for your arrival. If you haven't enjoyed too much of the Vance's moonshine, I can provide you with transportation to the airport.

 

Admiral Matteson's staff was feeling no pain but oh would they be paying the price come morning. The Admiral now had the reputation of being able to drink her staff under the table. POTUS was chuckling for days every time he thought of the incident.

 

Arriving back at Coast Guard Headquarters, the Admiral changed into a clean uniform and then headed off to the White House. The Director of Homeland Security was waiting in the Oval Office with POTUS when she arrived. "You Admiral are a hero and the White House `sharks' want to praise you to the American Public."

 

As POTUS entered the White House Press Room he asked for a few minutes of their time. Giving the Press Corp a brief overview of what had transpired over the past few hours, the life of this young man was saved by a command decision of Admiral M. McLain Matteson to offer immediate life saving assistance resulting in the life of a young man being saved. Admiral Matteson and her staff gave up their transportation so the injured young man could be airlifted to the closest trauma center. She and her staff then hiked down the mountain and returned to Washington.

 

Admiral Matteson exemplifies the highest standards of the United States Coast Guard and I am proud to present her with the Coast Guard Silver Life Saving Medal.

 

The press ate it up and this was the lead story on every news media in the United States that night. Arriving home, her partner held her, kissed her and only commented if she had wanted to go mountain climbing, she only needed to ask.

 

Admiral Matteson admitted one good thing came out of today's emergency. My administrative staff now will have a mandatory physical conditioning program. You should have heard all the complaints about walking DOWN the mountain. The Admiral only admitted she wanted a relaxing bubble bath and then quality time in bed with the woman she loves. She would never admit to anyone she was so exhausted she fell asleep before her partner ever got to first base.

 

The Worthington attorneys were earning their checks this week as they approached Luke and recommended they file papers to have Caleb emancipated and out from under any control by his parents. Worthington Industries could guarantee him employment and I doubt if we would have problems with any judge signing the order.

 

Luke would discuss it with his family and Caleb. They would have his decision on Monday. As Luke flew into Fort Connor he met with Doc and only asked what condition our patient was in and how he could handle some stress in his life.

 

Doc only commented that had to be one big snake to pump him so full of venom. He is a strong young man and should be able to handle anything you want to talk with him about. Just take it slow and easy and try not to stress him too much.

 

Walking down to Caleb's room, Luke introduced himself as the Father of Thomas. Caleb started to apologize for throwing Thomas down the mountain path but it was the fastest way to get him away from the snake. Luke had to laugh as he told Caleb he had saved the life of his son and there isn't anything he could do that would cause him to be upset.

 

I'm here to talk about your future and what you want to do with it. I've had our legal staff review your case and they recommend petitioning the court to emancipate you which means you will be an adult and totally responsible for your actions. Worthington Industries will guarantee you employment and I know Thomas wants you to live with us until you decide what you want to do with your life.

 

The one thing I want you to know... I think Thomas is falling in love with you. If the feeling isn't mutual, just let him down easy. What we Worthingtons do is without any strings attached. We only want the best for you and for your future.

 

I think it is time for Doc to let you break out of Medical and I know Thomas and Tony will be fighting to see who gets to wheel you around the base. Besides, Friday night is Prime Rib of Buffalo in the Mess and it is a treat you don't want to miss.

 

Caleb was in tears as Luke left and Tony and Thomas entered with a wheelchair. Thomas looked at Caleb and the tears streaming down his face and only asked what person made the man he loved cry. LOVE, did he say LOVE? Caleb started to feel wanted for the first time in months and he knew he had feelings for Thomas. Watching the interaction of these two "imps" left no doubt to anyone at Fort Connor their paths would end up at the Alter of our Chapel being bound as partners for all eternity.

 

Within a month the Attorneys had Caleb emancipated and he was now free to make whatever decision he wanted to make about his life and future. Thomas knew Caleb loved the outdoors and was a crack shot with a rifle. When the Worthington head of Security advised Luke of Caleb's proficiency with every piece of firearm in our armory, there was little doubt as to the next discussion Luke would be having with Caleb.

 

As they adjourned from a wonderful Marriott feast in the Penthouse, Luke asked Caleb to join him in his study. "Caleb, shortly Thomas will be off to school at Harvard and living at the Castle in Boston. He is going to need a personal protection detail and I am wondering how you feel about protecting him. Before you answer, it will mean spending most of the day and night with him and we will have to put you through an accelerated program to get your firearm proficiency certified and process your concealed weapons permit."

 

Talk it over with Thomas and let me know before I have to leave Fort Connor on Monday. And, besides... I want you to take our Wolf War Dog training program so you have one available to help in protecting my sons.

 

As Caleb walked into the Penthouse Great Room, he took the hand of Thomas and led him to his bedroom, closing and locking the door for the night. Tony felt lonely until Luke wrapped his arms around his son and asked him to join him in his bed tonight. It had been too long since they had enjoyed their last night of cuddling.

 

Besides, I have a favor to ask of you. Would you represent Worthington Industries at a reception to celebrate the anniversary of the Emperor of Japan ascending to the Chrysanthemum Throne. The Generals will be attending as the representatives of the United States so you will have friends around to help you with your first formal engagement.

 

"FOR YOU DAD, ANYTHING!" Besides, Hikaru wants to introduce me to his Marine Special Forces friends. (This is just the start of opening doors that will help you throughout your entire life.)

 

As brunch was being served the next morning an exhausted Caleb was limping to eat his meal as Thomas was smiling far too much. Dad, I've convinced Caleb to accept your offer. Now let's get him into training and get him ready to face Harvard with me.

 

OK, Monday morning we can have the Limo drop me off at the office and then take you two off to our friendly tailor to get fitted for a couple of suits and his ballistic armor. Then take him to the mall and buy everything he'll need to fit in with the rich snobs you will be hanging around.

 

I'll make security aware of your agenda but don't do anything stupid. You still aren't too big I can't turn you over my knees and apply knowledge to your tender bum.

 

When Luke returned to the Penthouse after Caleb and Thomas had spent the day buying out the stores... Thomas was smiling all too much and Caleb was embarrassed to the max.

 

"OK, guys... spill it, what happened?" I'm bad Dad... I forgot to tell Caleb he would have to get undressed so our friendly tailor could measure him properly. When Caleb dropped his pants, we realized he was going "commando" and our friendly tailor took one look at what he was packing and fainted on the spot. Luke lost it in laughter! (Caleb saw little humor in the episode!) At least Thomas wrapped his arms around Caleb and kissed him with a passion that made the size of his endowment all too apparent to Luke. (Damn, that man is hung!)

 

As a stressed out Captain Sanchez returned from the White House and his 1 on 1 with POTUS he was being pumped for information as his 1^st Lieutenant roomie knew he would soon be facing the same fate. All Captain Sanchez would say is just be yourself and what happens... HAPPENS! (As if the Lieutenant wasn't stressed enough.)

 

A knock at the door saw a return of our Lt. General Aide to POTUS asking this time for the 1^st Lieutenant. "With the compliments of the President, you are requested to join him in the Oval Office at 1000 hours tomorrow. Transportation will be provided." And, in a blink of ones eyes the man disappeared. (Definitely a good "skill set" to have in Washington.)

 

The poor 1^st Lieutenant was a basket case as he left for the White House. The Secret Service escorted him to the Oval Office and his Secretary only commented POTUS is expecting you, go right on in.

 

1^st Lieutenant Alexander Bradley reporting as ordered. Have a seat Lieutenant, we have much to discuss. POTUS asked if the Lieutenant was any relation to General of the Army Omar Bradley? He reluctantly admitted he was his Great, Great Grandfather. He was always my hero and I never considered anything in life other than a career in the United States Army.

 

(POTUS was indeed impressed!) Your service record is outstanding and one any soldier could be proud of your accomplishments. What are your feelings about Captain Sanchez. "I've only known him a short time we have been rooming together at the Marriott, but he is one impressive officer. I only wish I had his administrative talents.

 

Do you think you two could enjoy working together 24/7 for an extended period of time. Alpha Zulu isn't an 8 to 5 job. The Lieutenant only smiled and commented: "Like yours, no job in the military is 8 to 5." It is part of the life and career I accepted when I pledged my sacred honor on the field at West Point.

 

"Congratulations Colonel Bradley, Welcome to Alpha Zulu."

 

Returning to the Marriott, as he opened the door to his suite Colonel Sanchez met him with a double Scotch neat in his hand. "I figured you'd be needing this after your meeting with POTUS. I take it all went well?

 

Colonel Bradley only smiled and commented I hope you like being around me because we are joined at the hip just like any old married couple. As the two officers relaxed in their Great Room, they sipped on the aged Scotch Whiskey and only commented on how life can change in an instant.

 

Two weeks ago we never heard of Alpha Zulu other than mystic rumors floating around the Army. Now, here today... we are in training to head this program and inherit the highest rank in the United States Army.

 

Another knock at the door kinda shocked them. "Who this time?" A smiling Luke greeted them as the door opened and he wanted to be the first to congratulate them. Welcome to the Alpha Zulu Team. I'm hosting a celebration dinner in your honor at 2000 hours tonight in the Penthouse. Security has been advised of your attendance and please... casual dress.

 

Luke headed off to the Penthouse knowing he would have a few hours to enjoy the company of his sons and get Caleb ready to face the next challenge in his life... "War Dog School"!

 

Entering the Penthouse, Tony and Thomas went running into his arms wondering why Dad was home from the office so early. Advising his sons we were hosting a party for the new military aides being assigned to Fort Connor so I expect you both on your best behavior.

 

Asking Caleb to join them in the Great Room... Luke spoke as a father to his three "sons". Tony and Thomas will be returning to Fort Connor with the Generals on Monday morning. Caleb, if you agree we will be sending you to War Dog School for the next six months so you and your furry four legged buddy can bond and be trained. And, to keep Thomas from lynching me, Tokugawa assures me he'll have your secure laptop configured and online before you leave and in plenty of time for Thomas to teach you how to use it.

 

Oh, I can see my skype bill now! (As a big smile crept across Luke's face.)

 

And, so everyone knows what is happening... Tony will be flying to Japan with the Generals to represent Worthington Industries at the Celebration of the Emperor ascending to the Chrysanthemum Throne. So, you'll have 10-14 days you won't have to fight for bandwidth with him.

 

Now I suggest you three go take a relaxing shower and then grab a quick nap. The festivities begin at 2000 hours and dress code is CASUAL. As Caleb and Thomas headed off to his bedroom, the door closed and locked just as Tony reached for the doorknob.

 

Tony was starting to realize there was a new person in the life of his brother and someone who he cared for very much. Tony returned to the Great Room and only commented to his Dad that Thomas had replaced him.

 

Luke held his son and only commented you would never be replaced but Thomas has strong feelings for Caleb and frankly he could do far worse in life considering the snobs you will be attending school with next year.

 

Luke took the hand of his son commenting he needed a nap and he'd never tire of cuddling with Tony. (Thanks Dad, I love you too!)

 

The Generals arrive shortly before 2000 hours and in dress uniforms. Luke chastised them commenting tonight was dress casual. You have civies in your bedroom closet left over from your last visit. GET WITH THE PROGRAM!

 

This was a most interesting evening. Of course, the Marriott food was outstanding and there was ample Raspberry Cheesecake so seconds could be enjoyed. Caleb and Thomas were quiet, holding hands and talking and everyone saw the "handwriting on the wall". Tony was quickly becoming the ultimate politician and following in the footsteps of his father Luke.

 

Tony spent most of the evening "working" the Colonels knowing all too well the high probability they would be the next six star Generals of Alpha Zulu and he would be working closely with them for years into his future.

 

Discussing their trip to Japan, it had been determined they would fly out of Andrews Wednesday morning and make this a casual vacation as well as a diplomatic mission. That meant the Colonels would need to have our Friendly Tailor fast track their dress uniforms and Mess Dress Uniforms.

 

Thomas only commented he hoped our Friendly Tailor had recovered from the shocking experience he had this week. Tony and Thomas were roaring in laughter as Caleb turned multiple shades of RED AGAIN! Someone was going to be required to fill Arkyn and me in on the events of this past week. We had plenty of time and a captive audience. It is a long plane trip from Washington to Tokyo.

 

We took it easy on the booze out of respect for Luke and his teenage sons. We were impressed Caleb opted for soft drinks out of respect for Tony and Thomas. (We all knew he could hold his moonshine better than any of us.) Hell, from what the grapevine is telling us Admiral Matteson could drink any of us under the table.

 

It was truly an enjoyable evening and a good ice breaker for our two new Colonels. It was after midnight when we adjourned to our room and it didn't go unnoticed that Caleb and Thomas walked hand in hand to one bedroom. Tony was having a difficult time sharing his brother. It is a part of growing up that is most difficult on any imps that have been inseparable from birth.

 

Our upcoming sojourn to Japan would indeed be enlightening for Tony and give him a totally different perspective of the love Thomas and Caleb now share.