Most times, and certainly in times like these, Porthos's spirits are all that are needed to bolster Aramis's. Once again, he claps his hand on his friend's shoulder and he says, "beware the drinks which taste like candy. They are not harmless."

His boots sink into the sand as he walks forward toward the chaise chairs that await them, looking out upon the surf. "I have a hunch," he adds. "That you'll fit right in."