Memories Part 2: Spreading The Hope

Cory and Sean nervously looked at the circle of family ready to escort them into the auditorium.

Mont and Bast stood ready to lead them, both cats grinning in their white tuxes. Each tux carried their rank on the left lapel along with a small triangle of three crests on the right; the Unit, Clan Short, and House of Surak. Both cats were also carrying exact replica Vulcan S'harien swords for use in the ceremony as requested by Sarek. Next to them were JJ and Kyle, both also in white tuxes, with the only difference being the first crest; Kyle's was the Mikyvis Crest, while JJ wore the Clan Security Crest. All four wore a black armband in respect of those who had recently fallen, along with any service medals that they were eligible for on their left breast; all but Kyle wore the newest medal issued, the "Montana Conflict" medal. Cory and Sean outshone the regality of their wedding party though. Both were attired in a white jumpsuit with a tailed suit-coat commissioned by the Queen herself. Over their suit-coats hung a dark red open-front cloak which came to mid-calf. The cloak was held closed at their necks by a signet bearing the Seal of the House of Surak. Their black ties were clasped with another signet; Cory's bore the Founder Council Seal, while Sean's bore the Clan Crest. Both of them also bore the same black armbands as their escorts.

Cory giggled nervously as he looked over and saw Jace and Nath standing guard at the closed doors; both boys at full attention with their hoods raised and their faces in shadow. "After seeing how Mom, Grandma Anne, and Grandma Lizzy dressed us up, I'm almost afraid to see what the rest of you did to the auditorium. This is great, but you guys didn't need to go this far!"

Jason nodded his head slowly.

'For our Family, we would move the Earth,' Cory heard in his mind as Jason whispered mentally to him.

Nathan also nodded slowly, 'Live Long and Prosper, Patriarch.'

'Live Long and Prosper.' Cory sent back with a small grin.

Sean reached over and swiped an imaginary stray hair off Cory's forehead. "You're my Knight, Cory, and now you look the part."

"And you're my favorite teddy bear." Cory replied with a blush. "If it was possible to make you any cuter these clothes do it."

Mont looked at Bast and snickered. "I'm getting a sugar buzz just listening to those two!"

Before Bast could respond, Kyle and JJ chorused "Get used to it!"

The humor broke the tension, and both Cory and Sean joined the rest in their giggles. As they were recovering, Pauly and Wacko came walking towards them; Pauly dressed in a miniature version of JJ's attire and Wacko wearing a diamond-studded collar. In Pauly's hands, being held very carefully, was a red velvet pillow. Covering the contents of the pillow was an ornate silk scarf; all that could be seen was the outline in the shape of two rings.

"Gran'ma will be right out!" Pauly announced as he took a safe position next to Jace.

Sean smiled as he noticed how their youngest son and his furry friend were protecting their cargo like it was the Crown jewels. "Relax Pauly; nobody is going to take those. Can we see them before we go in?"

Pauly shook his head firmly as he pulled the pillow in closer to him. "Nuh uh Poppa! No-one sees dem unless Pastor Mills says so! I PWOMISED Granma Lizzy!"

Jason reached out and patted Pauly's head, while slight sniggers could be heard from under Nathan's cowl.

The rest of the party giggled as Cory and Sean both rolled their eyes. "Told ya!" Kyle giggled. "We took care of EVERYTHING for ya bros; you'll see them when it's the right time to!"

Cory's reply was cut off as he spotted the final members of the wedding party approaching. Teri was leading the way, her white dress obviously designed by the best dressmakers that the Queen had at her disposal. On either side of her, dressed in tuxes identical to Kyle and JJ's attire, were Aaron and Mikey. While Mikey's wings were hidden, his halo was still visible to all who believed.

"Mikey?!?!" Cory exclaimed in shock.

"Do you honestly think I'd miss this, Tigger?" Mikey asked with a grin. "I've been planning this from the day I realized that you guys were a couple!"

Nathan broke tradition suddenly: he just couldn't help it. "What, since they were four years old??"

"Nath'!" Jason hissed, trying not to laugh.

"Our first kiss...." Sean whispered with a smile. Cory grinned back while nodding.

"Yep, that's it... something about four-year-olds using tongue for two minutes nonstop gave it away...." Mikey giggled as both Sean and Cory began to blush.

"Talk about starting early ... I see where Timmy and Ricky get it from!" Aaron chuckled.

"You saw?" Cory asked, trying to make his blush go away.

Mikey nodded. "You kidding? Of course I did! I'd only just left the bathroom after our shower, but you two didn't run after me as normal. So..."

Sean started blushing harder, "Yeah, okay... we get it!"

"Okay boys; stop picking on your little brothers." Teri announced with a smile. "They know you love them without the reminders of when they were little!"

Once Cory and Sean had returned to their normal color, Teri announced "Line up; it's about time to start."

Everyone started to get into position as Teri directed them. Suddenly JJ broke into a fit of giggles as he looked at the pair in front of him. "DUDES! That's the first time I've ever seen tuxes with FURRY TAILS!!"

Mont and Bast just looked back and grinned. "We put extra hair gel on the ends," Bast chuckled, "so if you start goofing off we'll swat you with them!"

JJ winced as Kyle giggled "I'm glad I'm Mikyvis!"

Teri shook her head. "Boys, let's try to keep this serious!" she chuckled. "Kyle, could you please let the organist know we are ready?"

"Sure Mom!" Kyle replied, as Cory and Sean looked at each other with smiles of love.

A few seconds later, the soft organ music that had been playing in the background increased to twice it's previous volume as it launched into the 'Wedding Processional'. Before the first note had a chance to transcend to the next one, Jace and Nath pulled open the doors and returned to attention.

Pauly and Wacko led off the procession into the pitch-black auditorium. As soon as they passed through the doorway, torches on either side of it sprang to life. This continued as they made their way slowly up the aisle; the auditorium sequentially being lit to show their progress. Once Pauly and Wacko were a third of the way to the front, Mont and Bast began their trip towards the stage; regally escorting Teri. JJ and Kyle were next, not moving until Teri had made it one-third of the way up.

As they watched the progress of the last group, both Cory and Sean melted into the sides of their nearest brother. "Mikey, this is too much!" Cory whimpered.

Mikey glanced over to see that Aaron was handling calming Sean's exact same sentiments, then wrapped his arm around Cory. "Relax Tigger. You've given everyone in that room the gift of Love; this is their way of returning it to you. Every step you take on that red carpet is you accepting their gift; every step is proof to them that their trust in you was right. The last time anyone from the Heavenly Plane was visibly present at a wedding, of any type, was back in the times that the Bible was written; Our Father granted me this honor before I could even ask. Our Father does not task us with things beyond our capabilities; just trust in Him and you will be fine."

Cory looked into Mikey's eyes, and the love that came from them gave him the strength to hold off the stress that was threatening to overcome him once again. "Thanks Bro." Cory whispered. "I love you."

"I love you too." Mikey whispered back. "It's time to share your Love, Tigger."

Cory nodded, then straightened himself up just in time to hear the first notes of the 'Wedding March' barrel out of the auditorium.

Mikey took Cory's arm in his own, then with Sean and Aaron mirroring them, the four of them headed up the aisle. 'Where did all of these people come from?' Cory sent to Sean as he realized that the auditorium was packed to capacity.

'Going by the uniforms and such, I think Starfleet took every seat that was left after Camp Little Eagle and all the rest of the kids claimed theirs.' Sean sent back. He almost tripped on his own feet however when he noticed the faces he was just passing. 'Oh my GOD! Coach Simmons and the WHOLE FRIGGING TEAM are here!'

'Duhhhhh... I think half of Iowa is watching, not counting the fifty or so that showed up in person!' Kyle announced in both of their heads. 'Stop worryin' and get those cute butts up here already!' he added, bringing a smile to both boys' faces.

As they got closer to the front, Cory finally managed to tear his eyes away from the fantastic arch that Josiah had created and paid attention to the other items filling the front of the Auditorium. In the back, lit by hidden spotlights, were two banners; on the left was the Clan Short Crest, and on the right was the Seal of the House of Surak. Between the banners, above everything so that it could be seen throughout the room, was what Cory swore could only be a main viewscreen off of the latest Starfleet ships. Above it was the Great Seal of the Federation, and below the screen were the four crests of the Founding Member worlds; Andoria, Vulcan, Telar and Earth.

Cory and Sean both stumbled as they realized at the same time what the viewscreen was showing; it showed CD, in a white tux, at the console of the most famous organ in the world. Their son, the boy that Cory had risked his Starfleet career over, was at the Canterbury Cathedral organ, immersed in ensuring that every single note was perfect as he played on the most important day for the two most important people in his short life.

Cory slowed to near a stop as tears came to his eyes. The lack of movement made little difference at this point as he was at the front row of seats, so slowing down was more or less expected. He did feel weak, however, and the sight of his little boy playing his heart out was nearly finishing the blond haired teen.

A small hand reached out from the nearest seat to take his own, and he felt energized. Quickly looking down, his gaze was met by a serious expression from a pair of deep, shining blue eyes.

The newest member of the Clan, Joel, smiled up at his first big brother, and nodded; before removing his hand and looking forwards again.

Sean tightened his grip on Cory's hand and together they covered the last few steps to the pulpit at the front. As they reached the base of the ramp leading onto the stage, the end candles on the multitude of candelabras throughout the room lit. Cory and Sean's progress up the ramp was matched by the lighting of the candles, with the center candles lighting as their first foot hit the stage.

'Kyle, I know you're listening!' Sean transmitted telepathically. 'If doves start appearing out of thin air, I'm gonna hunt you down and see just how waterproof a Mikyvis really is! This is awesome though lil bud.'

'Don't worry Sean.' Kyle replied. 'The doves are sitting with Allie; Timmy didn't say if they had any plans though.'

Sean rolled his eyes at what was not said. As they came in front of the pulpit, Tyne stepped forward and nodded his support.

Tyne smiled at Cory and Sean briefly before looking up at the audience before him. After a moment Tyne finally began, "Welcome; I must say, this is one of the greatest honors, standing before you here, that I have ever had the pleasure of taking part in. I know I don't have to tell any of you how important these two young men are to us, but while you know them well a good number of you have no idea who I am. My name is Tyne Oraculum; I am the head of a Council that Cory is a part of, a Council that is working to try and make this world a better place. I know Cory and Sean through my work with them on that Council, and while what I've seen gives me no doubt that these two young men are our rescuers in these dark times, I'm sure many of you have seen this far better then I have. I am here today at their request, to share and bear witness to a promise they intend to make to one another. This is a promise that so many have taken before them but that few have as much heart and dedication to actually make last as these two have. The word that my people and those of our Council have for this is Socius, literally meaning the permanent bond to a life partner or companion. They wish to be recognized by our Council as Socius, which we consider to be the final steps two people could ever take together. And so, I am here to oversee this event and offer my blessing to it, though I dare say that my blessing alone could never express my gratitude and love for both Cory and Sean."

"Thank you Tyne." Pastor Mills said as he joined Tyne in front of the blushing couple. "Would you do me the honor of staying up here with me to assist throughout the ceremony?"

Tyne grinned, "Gladly."

Pastor Mills smiled his thanks before looking out at the crowd filling the Auditorium. Despite the extra balconies that had somehow appeared overnight, the walls were still lined with people who had no place to sit. "Brothers and Sisters, as I look upon you I see Hope. There has been no other time that I have seen a love so strong as to affect not only those from our own small planet, but those who come from locations scattered throughout our Universe. Throughout the known history of humanity, we have searched out stability in times of trouble. Many have fallen recently to protect the very thing that Cory and Sean stand for; today as these vows are given, we serve notice to the Universe that those efforts to end the peace that comes with the efforts of each and every one of you have done nothing but make you stronger. To honor our Heavenly brothers and sisters, who the Mikyvis Council assure me are joining us today from what is Universally known as the Spirit Realm, I ask each and every one of you to join me in a minute of silence."

Despite the size of the crowd, the auditorium fell absolutely still; even the animals surrounding Timmy and Ricky bowed their heads in silence.

After the minute was over, Pastor Mills walked around and stood between Cory and Sean. After he wiped some of the fresh tears from the teen's faces, he held his hands in the air and addressed the crowd. "These tears are proof that even as we move forward, those who are to be honored tomorrow are not forgotten. To those brothers and sisters who are not present in this room due to preparing a fitting tribute, I wish to extend an eternal thank-you from each and every one of us. Your dedication to continuing the healing that is started today will never be forgotten."

Pastor Mills returned to his original spot behind the podium. "Most of you don't know me; when Cory was recovering from his memory loss I was tasked by God to ensure that Sean was guided to be there for Cory's recovery. I won't go into detail; Sean has informed me that, due to most of you not getting proper rest recently, one of my normal sermons would put the entire room to sleep. While that might be helpful for you, Sean thinks that the snores might be disruptive to the ceremony."

The small smiles on Cory and Sean's faces as giggles and chuckles were heard throughout the crowd told Pastor Mills that his comments had served their intended purpose. As the room returned to normal, he continued. "Any time I see Cory and Sean, the first thing I see is Love. Not just the love of brothers or the love of mates, but a love so strong that it affects anyone around them. Their love is spoken of in every text from Our Father known to those attending and many more; no matter which of Our Father's many names your faith or upbringing has taught you, His message of unconditional love is universal. I have learned my faith from the Bible, while I will quote from it, the message is the same in all of his teachings, no matter what the title. While I have quoted First Corinthians many times, today is the first time I can say it truly fits."

He paused, then began the quote. "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

"Love never fails... And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."

"Cory and Sean are the embodiment of Love, so strong as to change the lives of every person here. Today, Tyne and myself have been given the honor of officially witnessing the sealing of that love before God and mankind. There is no prayer that I can give that equals the love each of you has shown in ensuring that this day was a sign of your love of this couple, but I ask of you to please join me in your own words as we ask Our Father for his Blessing."

The Pastor closed his eyes and began to pray as murmured prayers from around the large room were heard, "Most gracious Heavenly Father; on this day Your Children of many faiths have gathered together to witness the joining of two of Your Children. In Your great Wisdom and Compassion, you have gifted us with an embodiment of Love only exceeded on this world by Your Son, Jesus Christ. We thank Thee for this gift, and today ask you in your Name to Bless this union and all who may be affected by it. We ask for Your guidance and protection as Cory and Sean become One before You, and ask that You stand by their side throughout their union. We thank You for the gift of Your love, and ask that all present never feel the loss of it throughout their lives. In the Name of Your Son, Jesus Christ we pray; Amen."

Once the murmured prayers had stopped, Pastor Mills smiled at the two teens before him, then addressed the boys with them, "Doubly blessed is the couple which comes to the marriage altar with the approval and blessings of their families and friends. Who has the honor of presenting these young men for marriage?"

"We do." Mikey and Aaron chorused in unison after receiving an approving nod from Teri.

Pastor Mills nodded, and waited as Teri, Mikey, and Aaron took their seats. Once they were seated, he continued. "Cory and Sean, the covenant which you are about to make with each other is meant to be a beautiful and sacred expression of your love for each other. As you pledge your vows to each other, and as you commit your lives to each other, we ask that you do so in all seriousness, and yet with a deep sense of joy; with the deep conviction that you are committing yourselves to a dynamic growing relationship of trust, mutual support, and caring love." He paused as he looked around the room. "If there is anyone present who has reason that these two young men should not be married, speak now or forever hold your peace."

Silence fell upon the room; not even breathing could be heard. After pausing long enough to ensure there would be no response, Pastor Mills continued.

"Cory, will you have Sean to be your husband, to live together as friend and mate? Will you love him as a person, respect him as an equal, sharing joy as well as sorrow, triumph as well as defeat? And keep him beside you as long as you both shall live?"

"I will." Cory replied without hesitation.

"Sean, will you have Cory to be your husband, to live together as friend and mate? Will you love him as a person, respect him as an equal, sharing joy as well as sorrow, triumph as well as defeat? And keep him beside you as long as you both shall live?"

"I will." Sean replied just as quickly.

The two boys turned to face each other, then Cory began his vows. "Sean, since the day I met you I have loved you more than a brother. When I started getting my memory back, you showed your love to me with a poem. Today it is my turn to show you my love with one." As Cory looked deep into Sean's eyes, he recited the poem from memory.

"Sean,

You are the light of my life
You are the Yin to my Yang
You are the words to my thoughts
The Eyes to my Soul
With you I am complete
You fill my life with wonder and joy
With you all things are possible
Without you I yearn for what could be
Thank you My Love for making me whole
We are a Team for the ages You and I
Till forever and beyond"

("The Light of My Life" © 2009 The Story Lover)

Cory paused again, and took Sean's hands in his own. "Sean; with God as my Witness, I will love you from now until forever, and promise to never leave your side."

The smallest of shivers ran up Sean's spine as he began his own vows, "I have loved you as long as I can remember, Cory. Everything we ever did, everywhere we went, it was always together. Even when we were apart for most of the last year, you were with me in my heart, my mind, my soul. I love you now more than then, yet less than I will in the time before us. I promise on everything I hold dear to be there for you as you have promised me."

He paused as tear ran from both his eyes and Cory's, then he echoed the love of his life, "Cory; with God as my Witness, I will love you from now until forever, and promise to never leave your side."

This time, the shiver up his spine was not slight; nor was it his alone, and in that moment, as everyone in the Auditorium and all those watching shivered, Sean felt a touch upon his heart.

Only heard by three in that room, a Voice came. Only heard by Cory, Sean and Mikey, the Guardian of Forever added his blessing in words neither of the three could remember, yet in words that imprinted themselves into the souls of the two teens.

'May the Lord bless you and keep you; May the Lord make his Face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and bring you peace,' Mikey sent silently to both of them, and they heard in his mental voice the sound of rushing waters.

Pastor Mills wiped his eyes. "Father, bless these rings which Cory and Sean have set apart to be visible signs of the inward and spiritual bond which unites their hearts. As they give and receive these rings, may they testify to the world of the covenant made between them here."

Cory took the Onyx-set ring from his side of the pillow that Pauly was proudly holding up for them. "Receive and wear this ring as a symbol of my trust, my respect and my love for you."

Once the ring was on Sean's finger, Sean took his turn with the Amethyst-set ring. "Receive and wear this ring as a symbol of my trust, my respect and my love for you."

Once Sean was done, they said in unison "These rings now seal the vows of our marriage and will symbolize the purity and endlessness of our love."

As Cory and Sean turned towards the unity candle, the room went dark with the exception of a spotlight directly on them. On the screen behind them, CD appeared sitting in front of a string orchestra with an acoustic guitar, Nick Carter to the right side of him. Without a word, CD strummed the opening notes of 'I Remember You' by Skid Row; the orchestra doing a string adaptation of the song as Nick sang the lyrics.

"Woke up to the sound of pouring rain;
The wind would whisper, and I'd think of you
And all the tears you cried, they called my name
And when you needed me I came through

I paint a picture of the days gone by
When love went blind, you would make me see
I'd stare a lifetime into your eyes
So that I knew that you were there for me;
Time after time you were there for me

Remember yesterday - walking hand in hand
Love letters in the sand - I remember you
And through the sleepless nights; through every endless day
I'd wanna hear you say - I remember you...

We spent the summer with the top rolled down
Wished ever after would be like this
You said I love you babe, without a sound
I said I'd give my life for just one kiss
I'd live for your smile and die for your kiss

Remember yesterday - walking hand in hand
Love letters in the sand - I remember you
And through the sleepless nights; through every endless day
I'd wanna hear you say - I remember you

We've had our share of hard times
But that's the price we paid
And through it all we kept the promise that we made
I swear you'll never be lonely

Woke up to the sound of pouring rain
Washed away a dream of you
But nothing else could ever take you away
'Cause you'll always be my dream come true
Oh my darling, I love you

Remember yesterday - walking hand in hand
Love letters in the sand - I remember you
Through the sleepless nights, through every endless day
I'd wanna hear you say - I remember you

Remember yesterday - walking hand in hand
Love letters in the sand - I remember you
Through all the sleepless nights, through every endless day
I'd wanna hear you say - I remember, I remember you..."

('I Remember You' © 1989 Skid Row from the album 'Skid Row')

As CD completed the final guitar solo, Cory and Sean picked up the tapers on either side of the unity candle, lit it in unison, then blew out the flames of the tapers.

As the lights came back up. Pastor Mills smiled and continued the service. "For as much as Cory and Sean have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and these witnesses, and thereto have pledged their faithfulness each to the other, and have pledged the same by the giving and receiving each of a ring, by the Authority invested in me by God our Father, by the United Federation of Planets and by Her Imperial Majesty, Queen Elizabeth the Second, I now pronounce that they are bonded together, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Those that God has joined together, let no-one put asunder."

Pastor Mills stepped back, and Tyne took his place. Tyne nodded to both Cory and Sean, then proclaimed "Individuality is an important part of a person's life; it gives us purpose and makes us strive. We learn and grow by ourselves and in our culture but alone we easily reach the boundaries of our own humanity, the point where we cannot go any further. But when two individuals choose to join and become one then they, together, reach a turning point. That point notes not only their love for one another but a new experience, a new way of growing and developing, together they learn to be more than they were apart. The Council has recognized that these two individuals before us are ready to take this next step, to become one and continue their path together. And so, by the power that has been given to me by the Council, I now declare them Socius. May their life together be long, complete, and teach us all the value of love."

Tyne stepped back again, and Paster Mills moved with him, saying softly to both teens, "You may kiss the one your heart loves."

Cory and Sean embraced each other and began their first kiss as Socius. Everyone was concentrating on the pair, so nobody noticed the slight glow appear in Kyle's eyes as he amplified the love they felt for each other and transmitted it, with the help of Tyler and Levi, to each and every person witnessing the event.

As the glow of love that had flooded everyone's hearts faded away, and as Cory and Sean broke their kiss to simply stand there, looking into the other's eyes, the entire auditorium started to resound with the clapping and cheers from all the assembled kids and adults. Then the lights dimmed, and subtle movement was heard from near the front seats. In the darkened Auditorium a small shadow was seen running quickly to one side of the stage, while another made it's way to the other side.

From the speakers Starfleet had installed for the music that had been played from Canterbury Cathedral, more music started. On the screen, the view in the Cathedral shifted to also show a choir standing near the orchestra.

A light came down on the left hand side of the stage, illuminating the large floor to ceiling banner on which the green Clan Short Crest was seen. Standing just in front of the banner, lit by that light, and positioned just under the Crest, Kevin Thompson stood. A microphone was in his hand, and at the correct moment, he raised it to his mouth and started to sing:

"When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;
When troubles come and my heart burdened be;
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and sit awhile with me."

Coupled with his light, free and beautiful voice, the music and words flowed smoothly around all there, and Cory and Sean stood open mouthed as Kevin sang for all assembled.

This was no simple Love Song to express what the two teens felt for each other, but instead it was a tribute and an outpouring of love from all those assembled to them.

Kevin sang on:

"You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders -
You raise me up... to more than I can be."

As the last note of the chorus drifted away, a violin picked up the bridge and began to lead it back to the beginning.

Another light flared on the exact opposite side of the stage, and an equally small boy was highlighted, standing before the other Banner, upon which the Seal and Crest of the House of Surak was emblazoned.

It was the new child, Joel, who had so mysteriously arrived the afternoon before. His hair was slicked back from his face in as much semblance of tidiness as could be achieved without a hair cut, and his thin features glowed under the soft light upon him.

His eyes shone with raw emotion as he looked at the two who had been helping him so much since he'd woken that morning, and, his own voice filled with that same emotion, he started to sing:

"There is no life - no life without its hunger.
Each restless heart beats so imperfectly;
But when you come and I am filled with wonder
Sometimes I think I glimpse eternity:"

"You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders -
You raise me up... to more than I can be."

As he sang the last line, he came forward as one with Kevin and they met centre stage, looking at Cory and Sean. Together, their sweet clear voices merged and flowed for the repeat of the Chorus, and the choir on screen added their own voices at the same time. The blast of sound and power shook the building:

"You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders -
You raise me up... to more than I can be."

For most of the song, Cory had been looking deep into Sean's eyes, but a rustling in the Auditorium made them both turn. All their brothers and sisters in the Clan were on their feet, and with the two small boys on stage, they all joined their voices to sing, once again, the Chorus... this time, their own way:

"You raise us up, so we can stand on mountains;
You raise us up, to walk on stormy seas;
We are strong, when we are on your shoulders -
You raise us up... to more than we can be."

("You Raise Me Up" - © Music by Rolf Løvland, © Lyrics by Brendan Graham - **See Notes**)

"You raise me up," sang Joel alone, as the last of the music faded, "To more than I... can be."

Dead silence filled the room for a moment, then:

"That is what you mean to us, Cory, Sean," Kevin said in a near whisper, only heard due to the mic he still held. "On your wedding day, we all just wanted to tell you why we did all this for you. That song was the answer. 'Cos of you, we are all safe, and better than we were."

"Thank you," Joel murmured thickly, a happy smile on his face, and tears in his almost glowing blue eyes.

As both small boys moved off stage and the lights returned to normal, Sarek was seen raising an eye brow at the newest member of the Clan as Joel walked past him. Joel stopped for a second and looked up and smiled nervously before running quickly to Teri.

Amanda had the most unreadable expression on her face, however. "Poor... poor child," Cory saw her mouth silently before a loud bang was heard from the doors at the center back of the auditorium, drawing everyone's attention.

Cory's mouth dropped open as the doors at the rear were opened and the Coldstream Guard entered in double file. The marched to the stage and moved apart enough to line both sides of the aisle. At the back, Xandor and Riti stood, and Riti had a golden circlet about his head. Both winged boys had Greek style togas on, and as they walked down, Cory had an image of a pair of cherubs come to his mind.

Once the two Lo'Garn had reached the stage, they moved to stand on either side of the newly married couple. From Canterbury, a fanfare of trumpets sounded as the Queen appeared in the doorway, in her full regalia. The Royal Guard all drew their swords and made an archway under which she made her way slowly. Behind her came her Husband, Prince Philip, and her grandson, Prince Harry. Taking up the rear were the remaining six members of the Dragon Division leadership, all in full VSO Dress Uniforms and bearing their own golden circlets.

Once everyone had reached the foot of the stage, the Queen ascended and moved to stand behind Cory and Sean. The six black garbed Dragon kids parted to stand three each side of the foot of the stage to allow room for two more to enter.

Belar and Ross came padding down, both in Blue Dragon Uniforms and also crowned. Each bore an ornate cushion upon which golden circlets rested. As they came to the stage and walked up the steps to stand before the now married pair of teens, Cory saw that the crowns the little boys wore had the Coat of Arms of the House of Windsor at the apex dead center, overlaid with the circular silver dragon icon, yet the two circlets that they carried had the same, but with the Emerald Clan Short Crest over the Coat of Arms.

'What the hell is going on?' he thought furiously at Sean as he felt himself blush.

Sean shrugged as they both turned to look at the Queen, 'Not a clue!'

"We have watched," Queen Elizabeth began, "as two wonderful people joined themselves together before us, and have felt and shared in their love for each other. We have all seen much these last few months, and recently more than we could have ever wished to see, and in this act of union, a reply has been sent to those who would do good people harm:

"'We will not surrender. We will win. We have the right to live and love and enjoy our lives, free from bigotry, hatred and pain.' This is the message that came clearly to me as I watched Cory and Sean Short become one in heart and soul."

She paused as applause built and drowned out any possibility of her words being heard. Once it had died down she continued with a smile, now addressing both teens before her, "We wish to recognize this love, this spirit, with a gift. You have both sworn brotherhood with Jason and Nathan Evans, and later with Victoria and the others. This has allowed me to do for you what I once did for them when they swore brotherhood with my grandson, Prince Henry of Wales.

"When my father met the Vulcans for the first time, he learned of their culture. He approved of their family relationships, and so folded into our own Family and House many of the traditions of Vulcan - namely, in this case, A'nirih and M'aih and Ugan-Than-Sakai. Adopted Father, Mother and Brothers by Vow.

"So now, by the Authority of my Throne and Crown, I hereby recognize you both, and all those you claim as brother and sister, as my Grandchildren; you are members of my House, British by Joint Nationality, and Subjects within my Dominions."

The room was in utter silence. Every child, teenager and adult in the Auditorium registered shock on their faces; the Vulcan guests naturally excluded.

"Kneel, Cory. Kneel, Sean," the Queen commanded.

Both boys did so quickly, trembling in shock.

Belar and Ross moved around them and Belar lifted his cushion first. Taking the golden circlet from it, the Queen lifted it up before the assembled crowd.

She placed it gently on Cory's head.

Ross raised his cushion, and the same was repeated by the Queen for Sean. She then said to them both, "Arise and be recognized."

The two Lo'Garn at their sides helped the trembling teens to their feet. As they turned around, the Queen said, her voice ringing throughout the Auditorium, and throughout all homes where the live broadcast of the marriage was being watched, "We present to you their Highnesses, Prince Cory Patrick Short and Prince Sean Michael Short; Princes of the Empire, and Defenders of the Commonwealth Alliance."

For a moment more, there was deep silence. Once the shock had worn off, however, the roof was nearly raised when everyone in there started cheering and clapping.

Again, after waiting for the applause to lessen, Queen Elizabeth spoke one final time, "All who claim the two new Princes as brothers are themselves my grandchildren, and that will not change. If you wish to receive your own title and crown, you may do so by simply asking. It shall not be refused. It is your choice, and not asking will deny you nothing compared to those who accept it."

With that, music again started in Canterbury; it was the Canon in D by Pachelbel. The Queen nodded at the filled room one last time before leaving with Prince Philip, the Coldstream Guard escorting them.

Harry moved up to the two shellshocked teens on stage. "Congratulations, brothers!" he chuckled as he embraced them.

As both boys returned the hug, Sean noticed the innocent grin on Kyle's face. "Some warning might have been nice lil' bro!" Sean said with a smile.

"Grandma Lizzy wouldn't let me!" Kyle responded with a giggle.

"I'm not surprised!" Cory replied as he regained his composure.

"My grandmother is evil," Harry chuckled. "She likes surprises, and I'm sure if your little brother had spoilt it for her, she'd have found a way to get him back."

Kyle nodded. "You can say that again! It wouldn't be a problem normally, except Levi turned traitor and promised to help her!"

Mikey shook his head with a grin. "I think it's time to escort my favorite Princely Pests out so that everyone can properly congratulate them. It's my turn to surprise everyone; I brought extra escorts, and now that the outside feed has dropped it is time for them to show themselves!"

At Mikey's words, Davie and Pablito appeared, glowing wings and all. "I thought you forgot us!" Pablito commented with a grin.

"Forgot?" Mikey chuckled. "How can I forget you two when I had to keep from laughing as you flew around the place during the entire wedding doing random acts of goodwill? The barrel rolls were a bit much guys!"

"SOMEONE had to cover for you while you were busy being a big brother!" Davie giggled as he stuck out his tongue at Mikey. "C'mon; those two look like they need to get off their feet."

"More angels? Can I go see them, Mammy?" came a voice from where Teri was standing at the front row.

"Of course, sweetheart," she replied.

Cory looked over and giggled to Mikey, "Brace yourself!"

Mikey turned and was met by a shyly smiling Joel, who scrambled into his arms. "Who're they, Mikey? They Saints like you? They more brothers?" he asked quietly in a rush.

Mikey nodded as he turned so that Joel could see them, "They are actually what you could call 'Almost Saints' Joel; these are my assistants Davie and Pablito. When I can't be someplace, they help out. Since I call them brothers, I think that means that you can call them brothers too."

"We all call them brothers; very special brothers," Cory added. "They guard their families that have grown since they were alive just like Mikey guards us, little brother."

"Hi," was the shy greeting Joel gave both Davie and Pablito. "Umm... can I hug you? Both of you? I like hugs. They're nice."

Pablito nodded as Davie replied with a wide smile, "Turn down hugs? You've got to be kidding! Come here, Joel!"

As Davie and Pablito took turns giving Joel hugs, the procession started its way out of the auditorium. As they exited the room, they found that a corridor to the outside door was formed by the Royal Guard, their swords forming an arch for the newly wed couple to walk under.

As the group made their way outside, they started to hear the steady "thump thump thump" of helicopter rotors. They all looked off to the east, just in time to see three helicopters flying in formation. The one in the middle, a huge MI-26, almost one hundred and fifty feet long, was being flanked by two much smaller Hueys. They made their way over the crowd rather quickly and very low to the ground. Then the two smaller ones split off, and made another pass. Just as they were almost over top of the crowd, they wound up to full power, and pulled up into an almost vertical climb. At the same time, the rocket pods under the wings started to fire quickly.

The rockets shot out, and once they got about five hundred feet away from the helicopters, and now directly over the heads of the wedding guests, they exploded into huge balls of different color lights. Everyone watched in awe as the "fireworks" colored the sky, and the two helicopters turned and flew away, catching up to their very large brethren.

Cory and Sean looked at each other, their appreciation of the display they had just witness written all over their faces. "Awesome!" Cory commented with a big grin.

"Now THAT was some great flying!" Sean added with an appreciative whistle.

 

Meanwhile;

"It was beautiful, dad." Sammy said quietly as he watched Cory and Sean, along with the main wedding party, head outside.

"Yes, it was" Mike replied as he sighed.

"I wish Adam and Logan woulda come, then they'd see why." Sammy added.

"I know, but they're hurting a lot right now." Mike replied softly.

"I know that dad, but if they coulda seen it and felt it. Felt what's it's done for everyone, what it could have done for them." Sammy pleaded with a troubled look.

"Sometimes people hurt so much that they let it become anger, son, and can't see their way through it." Mike replied after some thought.

"I know, but this..." Sammy argued as he looked around, "This would have helped."

"Yeah, I think so too; but remember how you were last night, baby? Remember how angry you were?" Mike asked.

"Yeah." Sammy replied.

"Me and Vish sent everything back through our link; so our brothers and sisters know what happened here, and I'm sure they shared it with Adam too." KT interjected softly.

"I know they did; and Adam'll see, sooner or later." Vish added.

"I hope so." Sammy replied.

"For Adam, this looks like they're having a party before his family is even in the ground, and he's not happy about that; but he hasn't been here, and he doesn't know just how bad things were for everyone. That makes a huge difference baby, a huge difference. I've been watching Cory, and he's suffering most of all. He almost didn't make it through the wedding, he's so close to losing it. They needed this, he needed this, and Adam as well as the others will come to see that sooner or later, trust me." Mike said as he tried to get Sammy to understand.

"I will daddy, I always will." Sammy replied as he gave Mike a hug.

"It is... how you say 'too much pain in him to see past it'?" Yuri asked.

"You said it perfectly kiddo." Mike replied, which got a shy smile from Yuri.

"Da then, when pain is less for him, then he will see beyond perimeter, yes?" Yuri said.

"Yeah he will" Mike replied.

"Since Jace said I gotta assign positions to people, I think I'm gonna make you Director of Communications for the North America Division, Yuri." SamSam said as he smiled lovingly at his now shocked brother.

Once Yuri got his mouth closed, Mike tried not to laugh as Yuri protested. "But I do not have sufficient, how do you say, versatility in English language."

Mike watched as Sammy's smile disappeared. Totally serious, Sammy said "Bro, sometimes I think you speak it better than all of us."

"Come on guys; let's get out there, cause I hear helicopters." Mike interrupted, trying to corral all of them towards the doors; including a still stunned Yuri, who looked like he was about to protest some more.

'Yuri is now Communications Director for Sammy, even if Yuri don't know it yet!' Mike thought with a smile.

Sammy pulled out his communicator and softly said into it "Reynolds to Lafayette; stand by for transport."

"Acknowledged, Director Reynolds. Standing by."

As they walked out with the others; Mike looked over his little family, smiling at seeing how great they all looked.

Every one of them down to little Alexei was dressed in a full dress uniform from The Unit.

The pure white which adorned them from head to feet were tailored and fit them quite well. Each had a Unit emblem affixed on the right shoulder and a Clan Short emblem on the left one, while the older kids had empty holsters at their sides as guns really didn't belong here right now.

Sammy also had medals displayed on his chest and the silver leaf cluster of his rank of Lt. Colonel on each shoulder board. The purple heart shaped one on his chest, and the others on the other children, hurt Mike the most as he watched them move off.

They moved through the reception line, and finally Mike walked up to Cory and Sean. "It was a beautiful ceremony, congratulations to the both of you."

"Thank you Mike." Cory replied.

Mike moved out of the way, and watched as Sammy, flanked by everyone else, came up to stand in front of the newlyweds. Sammy leaned forward, and wrapped his arms around first Cory then Sean, before stepping back and saying "Congratulations."

"Thanks." Sean replied this time.

"It did a lot of good guys; and we're so happy for you." Sammy replied with a smile.

"I hope so." Cory said as he looked around briefly before returning his gaze to Sammy. "The uniforms look good on you guys."

"Thanks; and it did Cor. I wish you could have felt it, and that you could feel the difference now." Sammy replied, trying to make Cory understand.

"I'll take your word for it bro." Cory said with a slightly more genuine smile on his face.

"We can't stay though, Adam and the guys need us. They're shorthanded now with everything going on, and we're all going to help out."

"We understand, thanks for coming though." Sean answered, his smile showing he understood.

"We wouldn't miss this for the world!" SamSam replied with a smile before giving both newlyweds another hug before stepping back.

"Adam wanted you to have this," Sammy said as he pulled an envelope from inside his coat and handed it to Cory.

Cory looked at the envelope for a moment before taking it from him. "I hope he realizes we didn't mean any disrespect; we didn't try to hurt him." Cory said softly.

"He will, just give it time, he's really hurting right now and he isn't seeing much of anything real clear." Sammy replied.

Cory smiled briefly before saying, "Give him my best. If he needs anything, tell him to call."

"I will." Sammy replied as they moved off to the side.

Once everyone was sure that none of the group had wandered off, Sammy brought the communicator to his mouth.

"Do not, I believe it is, overtax the capacity of the mattress to handle da?" Yuri said as he smiled at Cory and Sean.

Mike started choking as he gasped "YURI!", while the two teens in question turned bright red.

"Meet my new Communications Director guys!" Sammy giggled, before somehow managing to gasp "Energize" into the communicator.

As the transporter beam began to form around them, Yuri asked "What?" in a very perplexed innocent sounding voice.

'He might not be extremely proficient in English, but he certainly had that down just fine! Mike thought to himself just before the transporter took hold.

Cory glanced at Sean, then gingerly opened the letter from Adam. As he read through it, his features relaxed. "That's a nice letter; we need to call Adam and thank him as soon as we can." Cory commented as he passed the letter to Sean.

Sean read it, then smiled. "Agreed Cor; I'll remind you once this all settles down."

For the next half-hour, the wedding party greeted their guests as they filed out of the building. By the time everyone was out, Jon and the band were set up and began taking requests for music. Cory and Sean found a seat to rest their feet, and were pleasantly surprised when CD, still in his tux, scampered over and climbed on them. "Daddy, Poppa! Look what the nice man over in England gave me!"

Cory took the beautiful certificate from his son and looked at it closely. "Oh my God! Sean! Look at this!"

"Associateship Diploma from the Royal College of Organists! I don't believe it!" Sean exclaimed.

Cory pulled CD into a hug. "I guess you showed someone important just how special you are, son. I'm really proud of you!"

"Me too!" Sean exclaimed as he reached over and rubbed CD's back. "I bet not just anyone gets one of those!"

"You are correct, Prince Sean," Lizzy stated as she joined them. "David Flood, the Organist from Canterbury Cathedral, was amazed by my great grandson's playing. By the time little CD had finished Beethoven's Fifth, the Certificate was being printed."

"But don't they usually require auditions and reviews well before they offer it?" Aaron asked as he too joined the group, having overheard from his own nearby seat.

"Normally, yes; but in CD's case, his skill was clearly seen and outstanding, from what I have been told. The College went by the recommendation from both Mr Flood and Prince Harry when he was there," the Queen replied.

Cory smiled. "I've known it since the day I met him! CD, why don't you and Uncle Aaron take this and put it in your room someplace safe?"

"Aaron," Sean added, "Will you make a copy of it for CD to show to anyone he wants out here? I don't want him to lose the chance of showing that someone outside of the Compound appreciated his great playing too."

"Sure thing bro; then I think I'm going to show off with CD! It's not every day that your nephew earns the right to add 'ARCO' after his name!" Aaron replied with a grin.

"I'm thirsty; wanna go for something to drink, babe?" Sean asked as they watched Aaron walking away with CD riding on his hip.

"Sure." Cory replied. "Thanks for everything Grandma Lizzy!"

Elizabeth just nodded with a gentle smile, and watched as the two newlyweds headed towards the Rec Room entrance.

Cory and Sean froze as they entered the building. The room was lined with tables overflowing with food, and there were parents spaced evenly to provide drinks. In the center of the room, Tommy, Tyler, Paul, and Pauly were in the process of ensuring everything was perfect on the ten-foot-tall wedding cake, Wacko standing guard to ensure nobody messed with it.

"Is this okay bros?" Tommy asked as he noticed them, his accent lost in his worry.

"It's awesome." Cory replied in awe as they moved towards the giant cake.

"How did you have time to make something this great?" Sean added.

Tommy grinned, relieved that it met with their approval. "Ty kinda helped me do some cheatin'; we jumped around an' baked when the ovens was not bein' used an' no-one was around to catch us. Cookin' Mikyvis style's fun!"

Cory and Sean made the rounds, giving Tommy and all of his helpers an appreciative hug of thanks. They inspected each of the hand-drawn miniature crests covering the sides of the cake, and used the ladder to see the two life-like reproductions of themselves standing on top.

"This is perfect; you've outdone yourselves!" Cory exclaimed to the group as he took one more round. "Neither of us will ever forget it; thank you!"

Sean nodded his agreement. "I don't think there is anyone on this Earth that could have done it any better!"

 

For the next hour, they mostly just sat there as brother after brother came by to give their personal congratulations. At any one time, either a member of Timmy's 'tribe' or Joel would be there with them, collecting cuddles from what all professed to be 'their favorite cuddlers'. The only exceptions were when they got up for the required slow dance, followed by honoring the band's request to cover the vocals on 'Born to be my Baby'. Kyle, Eli, and Benji joined them shortly after they took their seats once again, both smiling as they watched CD, still in his tux, supplying second lead for the band. As the band launched into 'Living on a Prayer', Kyle got their attention.

"Bros, while I was catchin' up with my Grandpa, Eli and Benji thought up an idea. Since I can't float someone myself, they're gonna help me show you something." Kyle said with a grin.

Cory and Sean both nodded their heads, curious as to what Kyle was up to. A few seconds later, they found themselves joining Kyle as all three of them floated above the massive crowd.

"You're asking why we went so far to make today special." Kyle said as he guided them to look around them. "Look at our brothers; really look."

Cory was the first to comment. "They're all making new friends and hanging around with guys from the other Divisions."

"Yeah," Sean added, "Nobody is staying in their own group. Sky's over there talking to Javyk, and it looks like Cody and Jerry have got a really funny discussion going on with Nath'."

Kyle nodded. "You know why?"

"Why?" both boys responded.

"Because you two have taught all of us a lot. You gave us love, you gave us hope, but there is one thing that you gave us that none of us ever had." Kyle replied.

"Family?" Cory asked.

"That too; but there is more." Kyle replied, his grin getting bigger. "Listen to our brothers," he added as he unmuted the sound around them, "They're telling you loud and clear."

Cory and Sean smiled and pulled Kyle into an airborne three-way hug as their senses were blasted with the sound of hundreds of youth singing loud and clear.

....Keep the faith

Keep the faith

Keep the faith

Lord we got to keep the faith.....

 

The End (Of Part 2)

 

Dreams Do Come True

Listen to me, my child,
For here is the story of life
Built in dreams, taken from facts,
What you get results from how you act,
A short stream of joy, spiked by rapids of strife.

Life is a constant war between love and hate,
And what happens is a battle against fate,
A fight to be born, a fight not to die,
A walk from the crib to the grave,
To claim otherwise is a lie.

Shadows of the Gods walk among us,
Asking that we, mere specs of star dust,
Contribute to the Divine plan of the Gods,
We are their tools and so we must,
Sentient sand created to bind the Universe's rods.

The Universe's survival and unity
Is ours to create from disparity,
By links of love cement its diversity,
A Universe of communal sentients,
So that It too becomes concient.

We walk the dream of the Architect,
We may be mere tools for him to select,
We may not see its realisation erect,
But my child, as each one of us grew,
We realized that dreams do come true.

© Christian Martin, 2008