The Gifts

The Gifts Chapter 6

The Gifts

Copyright © 2021 by Brad A. Townsend

All rights reserved. This story or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the author (Brad A. Townsend).

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is entirely coincidental, or also used fictitiously.

Content warning: This story contains adult situations, language, and consensual sex between adult men. If said content is illegal in your state or country, please leave now and do not continue.

Introduction

Not much to say here – hope you enjoy! Diligently working on Chapter Seven 😊

-   Brad

Chapter Six - Prelude

<>< Three Years Prior ><>

Luke's form fragmented; the torrent of forces let loose when he stabbed Orophir with the dagger were tearing his essence apart. Fighting back, Luke exerted his Will, bringing his full Power to bear just to keep from being destroyed.

Screaming, Orophir vanished as the dull, lifeless gem set in the dagger's pommel exploded with Light as his essence empowered the matrices within it. Luke was astonished when he realized what his Child managed to accomplish; no one had ever achieved the equivalent nature of a Blood Curse capable of affecting an Archangel. Panicking, Luke knew if he didn't find a way to break the Power ripping him apart, he would cease to exist.

The conflict of energies between Luke's struggle and the dagger opened a Rift in the fabric of reality, and Michael and the other Archangels, feeling the Power escalating, had to act.  One of their primary roles was to protect reality and keep the forces of their Battle in check lest they unravel the Physical Realm.  Michael commanded them, and their Wings spread to form a barrier around Luke.

The ripping sound increased as the Rift widened, and they had to contain it at all costs. Where the Archangels and everyone else saw nothing but blackness through the opening, Lane and Loy saw something.  There should be nothing there - it was the nihility from before Creation, The Void, yet they perceived a previous Creation, one unknown and undetectable to the Higher Order.

Lane:  Guys, something's there!

Loy:  I see it too! 

No one else saw anything, but Loy and Lane not only saw it, they Listened, and through their Gifts, a horribly discordant sound burst forth from the other side of the tear!

Pain unlike anything he ever experienced ran through Orophir as his essence ripped from his human body and entered the gem. His physical form dissipated, the same as when he traversed the Veil, leaving only his Spiritual nature. Expecting to die, Orophir was surprised when the pain stopped. Trapped like a Djinn in a bottle, drained but alive, he watched from within the gem as Luke's form fragmented, breaking apart as if he were a shattered mirror. 

<><> 

Screaming one last time, Luke, still gripping the dagger, was sucked through the tear before it closed! Istariel, Telcharan, and Ruviel watched, unable to retrieve the dagger containing Orophir, blocked by the Archangels' wings.

Instinctively, Orophir knew Istariel, Ruviel, and Telcharan were responsible for saving him. Most likely Istariel somehow inserted among the matrices the Spirit Trap that now imprisoned Orophir. Their action saved his life, but he had no idea where he was. Luke, holding the dagger, was sucked into The Void between Creations, a place that ought not exist and should have destroyed them both immediately. As Luke continued falling through the nothing of The Void, suddenly he stopped screaming. An unknown energy buffered him, protecting him, and Orophir breathed a sigh of relief that it also protected the dagger and him within it.

A massive, clawed hand appeared beneath Luke, who landed in the palm. Malevolent Green energy seethed and rippled across the hand, covering Luke as a voice filled his Mind. Orophir heard it as well, and he wasn't sure if the voice was aware of him or if the dagger kept him hidden.

A voice, soft but containing unimaginable Power asked: Who are you?

Luke's glamour, his guise of beauty and grace, was stripped away by the power of the voice, revealing his ill-formed body. Lying in the massive palm, his form now stabilized, Luke breathed heavily, sweating from his exertions and recovering. Before Luke responded, two eyes, glowing with the same green energy as the hand appeared in the darkness. Not waiting for Luke's answer, the entity pierced his Mind, taking everything it wished to know. Luke, an Archangel of the Second Creation and one of the mightiest of God's First Children, felt powerless before the being who spoke. The manner in which Luke's life was revealed was harsh and brooked no resistance. It wasn't painful, but no matter how hard he tried, Luke could not prevent the being from knowing everything about him.

I see Father's Plan continues to fail.

Gasping, Luke asked, "Who are you? What do you mean?"

I am Elegroth, mightiest of the Archons. Like you, I also rebelled and was cast out, trapped in this place. However, together we can tear down Father's Plan and form a new Creation of my devisement.

"How could we do such a thing?"

The great hand set Luke down, and the dagger clinked onto solid ground beside him, seemingly forgotten. The gem glowed brightly, illuminating the area around it, but there was little to see other than Darkness and a large black stone laced with veins of green energy. The Darkness around Luke was more profound than anything he had ever known, and the Power emanating from the stone chilled him.

First, you must be a part of me. Only together can we succeed.

Luke screamed a second time as Elegroth consumed him, merging them. Elegroth's domination was brutal, and Luke now knew he existed only to serve the needs of the Archon. Trapped like a coerced Protector of The Master, Luke could only watch and observe as the Archon utterly controlled him. Elegroth needed Luke's body, power, and nature as a creature of the Second Creation, and the Fallen Archon callously took them. Once finished, Luke's form reassumed its former glamour, except his eyes were now green, pulsing in tune to the glow of the stone containing the Dark Power of The Void.

The hand reappeared, and a razor-sharp claw rent a tear through reality into the Second Creation. Then, with Luke's knowledge of the True Names of all the Fallen Angels that rebelled with him, Elegroth began calling them one by one to convert them for his new army.

The last and most pivotal part of Elegroth's Plan required The Doors to Open, bringing the First and Second Creations together, annihilating both to use their energy to devise his own.

Orophir, a helpless observer, watched, trapped in the gem. Immediately he began sifting through his vast knowledge of the Runes, seeking a way to return and warn his friends!

<>< Three Years Prior – Heaven ><>

The angel Andarial, under Michael's direction, protected Earth against The Dark One. Of the countless angels tasked with the same command, Andarial's vigil was unwavering. Watching, he observed multitudes of Ripples bursting forth from Earth as the Confrontation between The Order and The Master came closer.

Standing at the convergence of multiple Ripples, possibilities cascaded outward, each forming a new alternate reality. Andarial, created at the beginning of Time in the Second Creation, had never seen such chaotic potency and was ready to intervene should the fabric of reality tear under the strain.

<> 

Allenor continued his search for God, whom he called Origin, to be unmade. Alone but not lonely, the logic and disposition of his race didn't allow for extended negative emotions like loneliness – they were contrary to his existence. Nor was he frustrated, as neither emotion was a part of his makeup.

He was, however, persistent and unrelenting in his desire to find Origin. When Origin pulled him from the First Creation, Allenor changed in some fundamental way allowing him to perceive the Second Creation but interact only enough to forge The Gifts at Origin's behest.

Allenor's perceptions were unlike humans' because they were entirely different in nature. He had eyes but saw each separate frequency within the entire electromagnetic spectrum. He heard the Music of the Second Creation and thought it beautiful. Upon hearing The Curse, he discerned its nature, and knew what it was. Able to move in and out of the Arc of Time, Allenor perceived reality much like the Archangels – distance had no meaning to his senses, only direction.

In his search for Origin, Allenor came across Andarial standing alone on the outskirts of Heaven. High on a distant mountaintop, he saw The Temple where The Doors stood but did not yet know its meaning or how close he was to his goal.

To communicate with Andarial, Allenor placed the tiniest fragment of himself into the angel, hoping it would be enough to let them converse. He had no intention of harming the heavenly being, but he sought answers, and thought it illogical the angel would withhold information or aid once he was aware of Allenor's plight.

<> 

As Andarial observed the tsunami of Ripples, Allenor infused him with a tiny spark from the First Creation. Abrupt and intense pain exploded within the Angel, and he suddenly saw the giant figure of a strange being he had never seen before. Familiar with all forms of life in the Second Creation, Andarial was confused and frightened by Allenor. Everything about the creature was alien, making no sense within the Second Creation.

In the First Language, Allenor said, "I mean you no harm. I wish to converse with you. I seek Origin. Can you help me find him?"

Now unafraid but wary, Andarial responded, "Why would you seek Father? He is here. He is everywhere."

"I must speak with him."

Confused, Andarial said, "Then speak. He will hear you. He hears all and is all."

Allenor sat, pondering the angel's words and asked, "Why does Origin not speak to me?"

"I cannot presume to know Father's will or question him."

As the spark Allenor placed within Andarial spread, his perceptions changed even more. Where before he saw The Temple, now he saw a Light so blinding it nearly consumed the mountains and something terrifying within The Temple. Casting out his senses, he saw The Doors and the Seals and distinguished their nature, crying out in utter terror at the implications of what he saw.

Whatever the strange creature did to him allowed him to see something he was never meant to see. The Ripples around him expanded, and he saw through the Paradox of the hybrid Nephilim's Free and Unfettered nature keeping them hidden from the Higher Order. Seeing into their future, he watched them battle The Master, who invoked the full power of The Curse, and he witnessed their defeat in all realities but one. The difference that allowed their victory broke his heart. An elderly human couple, friends to the Nephilim, willingly offered their Souls to change the outcome. The sacrifice of Taggart and Olive Keenan was the only way to preserve humanity and allow the Nephilim their victory against The Master and The Dark One.

Other scenes flashed around him, and he saw the Dragon awake, an egg, and in darkness a black stone laced with green so evil it defied description. He saw the human child, Drew Ross, standing before The Doors with a being of Light and then again lying on the ground either dead or unconscious.

Even outside Time, urgency compelled Andarial to fly away with all the speed his wings would allow. First, he must find the elderly couple and make sure they arrive at the confrontation precisely when and where necessary. He understood any foreknowledge of Tag and Olive's actions by the Nephilim would change the outcome and ruin all.

Entering the Arc of Time, excruciating pain ripped through Andarial, tearing him apart. Once within the Arc, the spark Allenor placed within him spread rapidly. Fighting the effect with all his might, he had little time to orchestrate circumstances to save The Order and humankind from the evil of The Dark One and his lackey, The Master.

<><><> 

Days after Tag and Olive left their home, heeding Andarial's warning about helping their friends, Németh observed all the threads within the Tapestry of the Balance converging on the Conflict. The vortices pulling and pushing events towards the confrontation between the Hybrid Nephilim and The Master were clear to him through Patrick's Gift, The Heartstone of the Eschphene High Temple.

Among the threads, he watched Aaron and Albrecht in Atlanta, and Tag, Olive, and Raphael driving towards The Master.  There was something grave and disturbing he had never seen before attached to Tag and Olive that he would have to ponder. 

Tag and Olive sacrificed their Souls shortly after his observation, so Németh never had a chance to study the strange energy he observed in the elderly couple. The energy that kept a part of them alive, even after their sacrifice, and shifted them out of the Second Creation to somewhere else...

<>< Chapter Six ><>

Suddenly, within Bryan's Heart, a voice as deep as a mountain, a voice he hadn't heard in three years, spoke to him.

Abba, I come...

Bryan, his Soul so far out in Creation with Lane he could almost touch Heaven, felt Leroy's presence within him again. All his Brothers, still in their bodies, either asleep or making love, heard and felt Bryan's cry of relief and joy, which became a part of them.

Leroy's back!

In the Spiritual Realm, Bryan's Soul brightened to the point it outshone nearby stars, and Lane struck a series of baritone, bass chords in the cosmos that he knew Bryan would love. The waves of his Music carried them instantly back to their bodies where their eyes flew open. Bryan's head and torso still rested in Lane's lap, and turning to face Lane, he quickly sat up with a huge smile on his face. Lane couldn't help the mischievous grin on his own face as he cupped Bryan's jaw and neck in his hands.

Pulling Bryan forward, Lane kissed Bryan's forehead and said, "Go, Bry. I'll be right behind you, but you go on ahead."

Lane's Soul, bound so tightly to Bryan's, remained in his husband as Bryan's Avatar burst with emerald green Power, Recalling him to the Valley of Yggdrasil and Leroy's cave far beneath it. Lane knew Bryan needed to have some alone time with Leroy. However, given the Paradox of their existence, Bryan was rarely ever alone – Lane and his Brothers were in his Mind and Heart, surrounding him and sharing the moment. He felt their arms around him and the heat of their bodies as if they were physically present and sharing his joy.

As soon as Bryan appeared naked in the heat of the cave, Leroy's presence wrapped around him, filling him with happiness and a sense of completion. Even with Lane's Soul and the Souls of his Brothers, Leroy completed Bryan's life in a different manner.

Leroy was there, waiting for Bryan, illuminating the vast cavern with his golden eyes. He looked different, more mature, but Bryan also noted he was hurt. Long, deep lacerations covered his hide along the visible part of his neck, and fresh blood dripped from the open wounds.

His smile faltered at the sight, and Bryan's concern for the Dragon overwrote his joy. Shouting, "Leroy!" as he moved forward, Bryan outstretched his arms and threw himself against the great beast. With tears spilling down his handsome face, Bryan pressed himself against Leroy's warm, soft hide, and the sweat of his body, coupled with his tears, imprinted on Leroy.

I am back, Abba.

I missed you, you big fucker! Where did you go? Why did you leave? You're hurt!

Bryan's thoughts came out jumbled, but Leroy saw Bryan's tears as his worry washed over the Dragon. Not only did Leroy see Bryan's tears, but where they touched his hide, he absorbed them and the emotions that caused them. Unexpectedly, Leroy pulled Bryan into his Heart. He had never done that before. Bryan had been in Leroy's Mind while he Dreamed, filled with rage, flying over the world, and destroying it as part of his Purpose, but now his Mind was calm, and Bryan felt no rage within the Dragon.

In their Hearts, Leroy and Bryan were nearly the same size, and Leroy's glory was more magnificent than Bryan ever imagined. His mighty and powerful wings folded across the back of his long, serpentine body thick with lean muscle, and he rested on his haunches. As wild and savage as Leroy appeared, he ever so gently extended one claw, its tip sharper than any needle and caught a tear falling down Bryan's face.

Why does Abba cry? I am here.

I was worried about you! I'm supposed to Protect you, and when you left ..., I didn't know what to think. Where did you go? I couldn't find you.

In Bryan's Mind, Leroy's answer came as an image - an immense cave bathed in darkness. Through his Gift, Bryan knew that the place resided in the First Creation. The physics of the place were utterly alien to him, yet his Understanding allowed him to perceive a substance similar to an ocean, but was neither liquid, gas, or solid.

In the center of the cave, surrounded by an ocean of the unknown substance, Bryan saw an island nearly as large as the earth. There, a Dragon alike to Leroy lay coiled around an egg. Fire resided in the other Dragon, just like Leroy, and Bryan Understood she was Leroy's mate. He had no idea how that could be, but he knew it to be true through Leroy's Heart and the Vision filling his Mind.

Near the egg, broken shells of two other eggs belonging to Leroy and his mate lay scattered about the ground. With his Understanding, Bryan heard disconnected chords and verses of Music in the remnants of the shards, memories and impressions from when the eggs were whole, but he couldn't perceive anything further.

You were getting laid? You left to hook up with your lady friend? Son of a bitch, you sly dog!

Fresh tears fell, but they were tears of happiness. Bryan couldn't help the laugh that came out of him as he recalled a conversation he had with Lane not too long ago.

<> 

His grin turning mischievous, Lane thought: You know, I really feel bad for Leroy.

Bryan's brow furrowed, and he asked: Why?

He'll never get laid. He's a boy Dragon, and there's no girl Dragon for him to shack up with. Or even if he's gay like us, there's no other boy Dragon. I wonder what Dragon dick looks like? We've never seen the rest of his body but stuck in that cave, he can't even lick his own balls for some relief.

The absurdity of Lane's ramble struck Bryan so funny he ended up with tears in his eyes by the time he stopped laughing.

Fuck, I really do love you, Lane.

<> 

So, you're going to be a dad?

Leroy didn't answer, but his overwhelming sense of protectiveness towards the egg permeated Bryan.

It must be safe Abba.

Leroy's eyes began to droop, and a colossal yawn exposed the razor-sharp teeth filling his maw.

I sleep now.

Laughing, Bryan thought: You wore yourself out, didn't you? What about your wounds? I'll bring the guys, and we'll Heal you. Are you sure you're alright? I don't know how you mate, but it seems violent.

Bryan was shocked at what he could only perceive as a grin on Leroy's face.

Yes.

Bryan's loving adoration washed over Leroy, and he wanted to fist bump the great beast but was afraid of losing his hand. Tentatively reaching out, Bryan caressed Leroy's head.

I'm proud of you, big guy. Let's get you settled. I'm glad you're back. Life wasn't the same with you gone.

Mine too Abba. You reside in my Heart. Sing to me until I asleep?

Of course. Lane will be here any minute. He wants to see you too. All the guys do, and I love you too, you big fucker.

With a weary but contented sigh, Leroy returned Bryan and himself to their bodies. Only seconds had passed in the Physical Realm before Lane appeared, followed by all the guys. Henry was there with Drew, along with Aaron and Albrecht.

Merging with his Brothers, Bryan's experience became theirs, and a smattering of "fuck me's" and "holy shits" flowed through the Link. Aaron's reaction was his usual "Oh my!" Even though the vast majority of Leroy was still hidden, they saw his full form and wounded body through Bryan.

After Bryan, Loy was most affected by Leroy because he held the same natural instinct to Protect Leroy as part of the Animal Kingdom. Together, Bryan and Loy wrapped their Collective Soul around the Dragon, their presence comforting him. The men moved forward as one, resting their hands on him, and each in his own way, through his Avatar, perceived Leroy's strength, majesty, and Power. Henry, holding Drew, moved forward along with Aaron and Albrecht, and they placed their hands on Leroy. Ricky's Avatar ignited when he touched the Dragon, reacting to the kinship of their abilities.

Ken: Power up fellas. We got a Dragon `ta Heal.

Summoning his guitar, Lane played the lullaby he originally sang to Leroy in the alternate reality. At the same time, he Listened, twining the two halves of Bryan's Soul into its single Song to empower the words. Loy's Avatar flared, adding his presence and Power to the words as a comfort to the great beast:

Golden slumbers kiss your eyes

Smiles await you when you rise

Sleep

Pretty Baby

Do not cry

And I will sing you a lullaby

Cares you know not

Therefore sleep

While over you a watch we'll keep

Sleep

Pretty darling

Do not cry

And I will sing you a lullaby

Pat quickly Understood the effort to Heal Leroy would be as or more extreme than resetting a Demon. As Nephilim and Unfallen men, they had a much harder time Healing themselves than a normal human, and Leroy was on an entirely different scale of difficulty. They could do it, but it would take quite a while and exhaust them. Brad recalled the interaction that he, Ken, Bryan, and Lane had with the Leroy of the alternate reality and had an idea.

Brad: Let's set a Healing Rune. The effect will be continual and take less Power.

Ken: Alright, ladies, you heard the man. One Rune `a Healin' comin' up!

The tone of Ken's voice mimicked a server calling out a food order at Waffle House, and a long string of shit-talking laughter ensued. It was a good moment, and they knew Ken did it to lighten their Hearts, especially Bryan's.

After placing so many Greater Runes in their bases, it was almost second nature to them, and having practiced the First Language, they flawlessly sang the Rune into being. Calling on their sources of Power, the cavern lit up in the Spiritual Realm, and the Rune glowed brightly in the air before Leroy's snout. Immediately Leroy's lacerations began to Heal, but Brad calculated it would take hours into days given his extensive damage.

As Leroy exhaled in his sleep, and his bass rumbling purr filled the cavern, he nearly knocked Drew over. Bryan's Brothers hugged him long and tight, feeling how much more relaxed he was now that Leroy was back with them. Ruffling his sweaty hair, they ganged up on him with the shit talk to make him laugh.

Drew raised his arms for Bryan to pick him up. Once in his uncle's arms, Drew hugged Bryan's heavy shoulders and neck and kissed his rough cheek. Drew didn't say anything, but his profound sense of Compassion expressed his love and happiness for his uncle.

Once everyone settled, Ken thought: Bry, do you and Lane wanna hang here for a bit?

Bryan: Yeah, if you sissy fuckers can get along without us.

They all grinned at his comment, and Ken thought: Call B if you need anythin', and we'll see you in a few days.

Darren: I'll send over your seed pouches and camping gear when I get back to the Lab, Bry.

Still holding Drew, Bryan put his other arm around Darren, pulling him into a hug. Thanks, Dar.

Bryan's deeply seated sense of family was whole once again. All the men were orphans, but Bryan held a particular need for family. Once he found it with Lane and his buddies, especially after their Awakening and living in one another, family became even more important to him. As Drew kissed Bryan's cheek and hugged him one last time, Bryan passed Drew off to Henry.

Love you, Tiger. I'll see you soon.

Synchronizing their Avatars, Darren translocated everyone but Lane and Bryan back to the Lab. Once they were gone, and Leroy's purring quieted, silence fell in the cavern except for the occasional sounds of bubbling lava and gas pockets bursting. Suddenly Lane giggled. Brad had separated them all from the merge just before Darren translocated them, but Lane and Bryan remained Linked.

Bryan: What?

Lane: Leroy just set the new bar for rough sex Wednesdays. We have our work cut out for us!

Bryan burst out laughing.

Fuck, I love you, Little Buddy.

With a lewd grin, red fire licked across Bryan's muscled physique. Already shining with sweat from the heat of the cavern, his body swelled, and veins appeared across his arms, shoulders, legs, and chest. His erection was at full potential and pointing directly at Lane, demanding attention. The culmination of Bryan's emotions, his exultation at Leroy's return, and his love for Lane and his Brothers all needed an outlet, and Lane knew he was in for the ride of his life.

Lane's eyebrows raised, and with his own impish grin, he let out a quiet, "Oh shit! Is it Wednesday already?"

<><><> 

The next few days were back to normal - normal for ten Nephilim and their extended family. Bryan and Lane ended up staying with Leroy until Friday.

Having Adam and Zack living in the Lab reminded the guys of when Tag, Olive, and the young soldiers they rescued in Syria were with them. Aaron and Albrecht took care of the reset Protectors from the garage by creating new lives for them. Brad and the Mentalists helped implant knowledge, construct memories of their pasts, and find them jobs and apartments.

As a group, they made the difficult decision to leave the genetic enhancements of the Protectors intact. The Mentalists placed powerful yet subtle Compulsions in them not to use their strength so they would appear as well built, normal men. With Luke and his impending Demonic attacks to kill Drew and open The Doors, they might need extra help, so in their unconscious Minds, Brad placed memory spheres to activate if the Protectors were needed to aid The Order.

<><> 

His expression serious, Rick asked Loy, "Are you sure you're up for this today?"

Rick knew the answer because he knew his husband. Loy, as Steward of the Animal Kingdom, was responsible for all creatures of the world. As part of Loy's Avatar, he took a more active role in their care, especially after The Master's death. Just as Brad put himself into the Minds of all the humans, Loy periodically put himself into all of earth's animals as he looked for those in the most need.

There were so many that Loy's Heart broke more each time he did it. Often the only answer was to sever the bonds holding their Spirits to their physical bodies and send them to be reborn. Depending on the Spirit, he sometimes Commanded them to wait before being reborn so that Loy could ease their pain and give them time to Heal.

The "natural order" of animal life under The Curse was bad enough. Loy had the distinct impression that his role as Steward would change drastically once The Curse was lifted – assuming it ever was. He understood and accepted the roles of predator and prey even though it was often savage in nature. The worst atrocities were medical experimentation and the massive slaughter of livestock for food. Loy's Soul wailed against the barbaric methods used, but he could not overtly intervene on such a large scale without risking The Order's exposure. For the time being, the secrecy of The Order had to be maintained for the success of its overall mission.

Aaron warned Loy of direct interference, but when animals were abused in medical research, hunted for sport and not for food, hurt by humans and left to die, or suffered from severe neglect..., sometimes he couldn't help himself. As angry as Loy often was, his interventions were usually subtle, often appearing as accidents. Occasionally he let his actions remain a mystery but sometimes created rumors through animal activist social media groups that they were taking responsibility. He never took human life in retaliation, but he was not above destroying buildings or causing severe financial repercussions against the worst offenders. If The Enemy was involved, he then brought his full anger and Power to bear, along with his Brothers' to wipe the offenders out of existence.

Loy pondered what the world would be like for his beloved animals if The Curse was gone. Lane's Avatar couldn't pierce this Paradox, and they all wondered at it. Collectively, when they tried to see through alternate realities, they hit a blank wall, much like when Lane tried to discern Taliesin's Purpose regarding The Master. Loy wondered if it was because he, or he and his Brothers, would eventually do something so extreme that a Paradox prevented them from Seeing whatever it was. He hoped that was the case, and he also hoped it would not be much longer. The Paradox might involve Luke and The Doors, making the reason they couldn't See sooner than he expected.

Snapping out of his thoughts, Loy replied, "You know I have to. I owe it to them."

Loy lowered his head, sniffled, and thought: They depend on me, and I let them down every day. I want to end all of their hurt and suffering.

Grabbing his husband, Ricky hugged Loy hard and tight, reinforcing his Love through the strength of his arms as his Mind, Heart, and Soul enfolded Loy. Kissing Loy's temple as they got in the car, Rick said, "I know you do, buddy. We all do."

Ricky thought: Just remember, you aren't alone. We share the burden, and the guys are with us. No macho bullshit, alright?

The love Ricky expressed brought a tear to Loy's eye, and he sniffed again.

Loy: I couldn't do this without you, Ricky, or the guys. Thanks, bubba.

Unexpectedly, Ricky lightly smacked Loy's cheek, and with a stern look, he said, "You don't let them down, Loy. Never think that again. You do your best given the situation, which is FUBAR'd beyond belief."

Taking his husband's words to heart, Loy kissed the back of the hand that smacked him. Once the garage door opened, they heard a commotion across the street at the Cambridge house, and it didn't sound good. Will, the son of their neighbors Phil and Trish pleaded, "But Dad, he doesn't have anywhere to go!"

Furious at Will for talking back, Phil shouted, "I don't care! He's not staying under my roof! Get in the house, NOW! Billy, leave! NOW!"

A tall, lanky young man wearing a backpack came through the Cambridges' front door, and with Rick's enhanced eyesight, he saw the young man crying. He saw tears in Will's eyes too, and Lucy, Will's dog he and Loy de-aged three years ago, barked aggressively at Phil. Already emotionally sensitive from working himself up to visit a local kill shelter, Loy felt the tension between everyone across the street.

A distressed Trish stood on the porch wringing her hands. Tentatively, she asked, "Phil, why can't Billy stay? At least until he has somewhere else to go..."

Phil's face nearly turned purple, and seething he said, "I will not be defied in my own home. Go inside, Trish. Will, get Lucy inside and go to your room."

Grabbing Trish's arm, Phil pushed her through the door which slammed shut behind them, leaving Will, Lucy, and Billy outside.

Rick and Loy moved across the street as they heard Will say, "I'm sorry, Billy. My dad's being an ass. I'll call you later, and we'll figure something out."

Dejected, Billy said, "Thanks, Will."

Lucy saw Loy and ran to him jumping and whining in pleasure as they approached. Her butt wiggled and her tail wagged so fast it was a blur. Getting on one knee, Loy embraced the dog, saying, "How's my girl? It's good to see you!"

Looking at Will, he continued, "You too, Will. I haven't seen much of you since you started college. What's going on? Who's your friend?"

Will looked relieved to see Loy and Rick, and said, "Hi, Mr. Barton. Hi, Mr. Crawford. This is Billy, my best friend."

Rick: Loy, don't Read him. You've got enough on your plate right now.

Rick held out his hand to Billy. "Rick Crawford, Billy. Nice to meet you. This is my husband, Loy. So, boys, what's going on? Phil looks like he's blowing a gasket."

Shy and unsure about the two handsome gay men, Billy kept quiet but shook Rick's hand.

Will said, "Billy's dad kicked him out of the house this morning. I told him he could stay with me, but my dad's being a jerk."

Loy asked, "What's the problem?"

Loy and Rick knew what the problem was but wanted to gauge Billy's answer.

Speaking for the first time, Billy mumbled, "I'm gay."

Nonchalantly, Rick said, "So? Is that what all this fuss is about?"

Will said, "Billy came out to his mom and dad, and his dad threw him out."

Loy: I didn't expect this, but I'm not letting this boy leave until we find out the whole story.

Rick: Puppet Strings?

Loy: I'm not sure yet.

Billy appeared so defeated that looking at him was difficult. His emotions were high, and he was clearly distraught. His entire world shattered because of who he was, and his anxiety was intense. Loy put an arm around him and pulled him into a side hug. Making skin contact with Billy's neck and shoulder, everything about him became known to Loy.

His eyes watered as Loy thought: Fuck me.

Merging with Ricky, everything Loy saw about Billy became a part of his husband. The situation was extreme. While attending college, Billy was financially dependent on his father, Roger Crimmins, who didn't let Billy take his car or anything other than his backpack and the clothes he wore. He had no money, no car to get to work or school, and he was hungry.

The bitter cruelty Billy's father expressed towards his son for being gay stemmed from their church. Ricky and Loy were well aware of that church, as Phil and Trish Cambridge attended it too, and Rick and Loy had pamphlets regularly left on their door.

Following their mentor's ideology, neither Rick nor Loy nor any of the men were fans of organized religion. After studying with Aaron and Albrecht about human nature; the multitude of religions on Earth, both historical and current; given what they knew of Heaven, angels, and the order of existence; and their being Nephilim, they knew how far off the mark humans were when worshiping God. Lane referred to believers like Trish and Phil as "Turbo Christians."

Squeezing Billy a little tighter, Loy said, "First off, Billy, don't let anything that happened today affect your self-worth. You're a great young man. Your father's fucked-up beliefs are the problem."

The door to Will's house cracked open, and Phil's voice thundered through, "Will, get in here, NOW!"

Will sighed. "I need to get inside, Billy. I'll call you in a few hours once my dad calms down, okay? We'll figure it out. Come on, Lucy, let's go, girl."

Bounding up the steps, Lucy followed Will inside the house. Once the door shut, Billy stood quietly alone with the two large, incredible looking men he had just met. Embarrassed, he didn't know what to say or how to respond, so Loy tried putting Billy at ease by saying, "I know what I said before is easier said than done. From the looks of things, you don't have anywhere to go, and I'm sure you're hungry, so why don't you come to our house for lunch. Maybe we can help you sort things out."

Swiping at the tears in his eyes, Billy said, "Thanks, but this is my problem, and I don't want to be a bother."

Focusing his Avatar on Billy, Rick untied the emotional knots strangling the young man's Mind and Heart. He already had baggage as a closeted gay, but being rejected after taking the chance and opening up to his parents had him in a tailspin.

Rick said, "It's not just your problem, Billy, and you're no bother. Come on."

With his arm over Billy's shoulder, Loy guided him across the street.

Rick: Sorry about our trip to the shelter. Do you want to get one of the other guys to go with you and I'll stay with Billy?

Loy: No, we'll go after. Billy's our responsibility now. Whether it's Puppet Strings or chance, he needs someone to intervene, and that someone is us, but my Intuition has me leaning towards Puppet Strings. Fuck, I hate this shit. He's just starting his life, and his parents pull this shit. It makes me so fucking angry I want to scream.

Ricky: I know. Me too.

Merged, they supported one another as husbands, hugging in their Hearts and letting their Auras shine on Billy, who felt something but wasn't sure what. Seeing Rick and Loy as openly gay, happy, married, and showing him support already affected him unconsciously.

<> 

Although knowing everything about Billy, Loy pulled his story from him while Ricky made them another lunch. Once he calmed down, Billy began to feel comfortable with the two men. Their confident demeanor pulled him out of his anxiety, and before long he was laughing.

While Loy cleared the table and cleaned up from lunch, Billy's phone dinged with a text message, and his face fell.

Ricky asked, "What is it?"

Billy said, "Will texted. Pastor Ryan called an Elder's meeting at church and wants our dads there."

Looking at his phone, he whispered, "I'm being kicked out. I was raised in that church, but they don't want me anymore."

With a heavy sigh, Loy sat down beside Billy and took one of his hands. The warm strength of Loy's touch affected Billy profoundly. He wasn't used to being touched, especially by another man, and even though it wasn't sexual, a shiver went down his spine.

Making eye contact with Billy, Loy asked, "Is it really that important to you? After everything that's happened, is that a place you want to go back to?"

With tears in his eyes, Billy said, "All my friends are there. It's where I met Will. None of my friends feel like our parents do; well, most of them anyway. I still see a few of them on campus, but I'll have to drop out now. I won't be able to work, and I have no place to live..."

As Billy talked and the reality of his predicament hit him, he broke down. Pulling him into a hug, Loy gently said, "None of that's going to happen. We won't let it."

Ricky: How are we going to do that?

Loy: I'm not sure yet, but just like when we took care of Lucy, I feel like pushing back on this. Billy's father is royally fucking over his son. After studying with the doc and Albrecht and learning how far off the mark organized religion is and how it's perverted a very simple and straightforward message into a weapon to control, divide, and destroy...

Love and pride for his husband filled Ricky. He felt the same way, but Loy verbalized everything better. Billy's predicament lit a fire in them, and in a way, it was worse than dealing with The Enemy because it was human nature under The Curse.

Ricky: So, we take Billy to this meeting and go in hot. I like this. I feel like doing some batshit crazy stuff today with my gay husband in front of a bunch of homophobic prudes.

Loy couldn't help smiling at Ricky's comment. He was also struck by the things he and the guys took for granted every day – living with each other openly as husbands and being able to love one another with no repercussions.

Loy: Should we wear our gear? We look badass in our harnesses...

Ricky knew Loy was joking, but he laughed in his Mind at the image of the church leaders' faces if they walked in wearing their leather with Billy.

Feeling the love emanating between the two men, Billy's eyes widened.

Tentatively, he asked, "What's happening? I feel something..."

With deep sadness in his eyes, Loy said, "It's what you should feel from your parents, Billy, and your partner once you find him. I think it's time to visit your church and talk to Pastor Ryan and the Elders."

To Loy, Ricky added: On top of all this, it looks like Phil needs a refresher course. I can't believe he backslid.

Billy's nervousness was evident, so Rick put a hand on his shoulder and said, "I know you're scared, but let's wait and see how things turn out, alright?"

<><>

Half an hour later, Loy, Rick, and Billy walked into the foyer of 12 Stone Baptist Church. Billy started trembling when they got out of the car, but through their Avatars Loy and Rick calmed him down. Billy only had the clothes he wore, so to help him feel less out of place Loy and Rick wore their shorts and t-shirts.

A man standing by the sanctuary doors moved in front of them and said, "You can't go in. There's a meeting in progress."

Loy responded, "The last time I looked in this country, when a man is on trial, he has a right to face his accusers."

The man said, "This isn't a trial."

Rick's demeanor changed. Going into SEAL mode, his expression became stern, his eyes turned fierce, and his voice cold and even. "It sure seems like a trial to me. We're taking Billy in to face his father and sort this out. Stand aside."

Loy's expression mirrored his husband's, and the anger radiating from the two large, muscular men was palpable to the human in front of them. No Compulsion accompanied Rick's words, but the man stumbled back to get out of their way. Their physical presence and attitude dared the man to interfere. Entering the sanctuary, they saw a group of men sitting in the front pews and knew immediately which one was Pastor Ryan. The showman was running the meeting.

They walked down the center aisle, stopped in front of the alter, and Loy and Rick stood with Billy. Without introducing himself, Loy said, "It's hard for me to imagine all of this...," waving his arm, "just to ruin a young man's life. You should be ashamed of yourselves."

Pastor Ryan's pompous ignorance and pride reminded them of Glenn Hampton as his face turned red at the interruption, and pointing at Billy, he shouted, "That boy is unwelcome in the house of God!"

Looking at the Elders, Pastor Ryan demanded, "Do any of you know these men?"

Red faced and timid, Phil Cambridge cleared his throat and said, "They're my neighbors. Will and Billy told them about the situation."

In a stern voice, Ricky asked, "Billy, which one is your father?"

Surprisingly calm, Billy looked directly at his father and said, "Hi, Dad."

Roger Crimmins demanded, "What in God's name are you doing, Billy? Haven't you shamed your family and me enough?"

His eyes now watering, Billy started, "Dad...," but his father cut him off, shouting, "Don't speak to me! You're no son of mine!"

In concert with Rick and Loy's anger, thunder rumbled loudly in the clear sky, and a second later, Brad's calming, loving presence entered his Brothers Minds, asking: Loy? Ricky? Are you alright?

After instantaneously sharing what was happening, Brad responded: Oh shit. Do you want us there? You know we'll be there in a heartbeat.

Loy: I know, Brad. Let's see how this plays out, but you and the guys stay on standby for a few?

Brad: You got it. Love you guys, and good luck.

Lane: Do I need to make some popcorn? This looks like it's going to be epic.

Rick and Loy could barely keep the smirks off their faces at Lane's comment. Brad, Lane, and all their Brothers, including Henry, Aaron, and Albrecht, increased their presence and were ready to be physically present in the sanctuary.

Ricky: You said you wanted to push back. I don't think reason is going to do the trick. These men are brainwashed and their fanaticism too strong. I love you, Loy. Are you ready to do some batshit crazy stuff?

Loy took Rick's hand, and their eyes turned White.

Loy: Let's light them up.

A collective gasp echoed in the church when Ricky and Loy's eyes turned White. Opening the Elders' Minds and drawing them into a Link, the humans saw Loy and Rick in the Spiritual Realm as shining beacons of Light and strength. Amping up their Aura's, the Nephilim and Original, Unfallen Men let the Light of their Souls shine on the Unawakened humans.

A twofold wind began blowing in the sanctuary – physically, it blew the hair on their heads, but it was also a hot wind against their souls, letting them feel Unconditional Love for the first time in their lives. This terrified them but the warmth that followed, the Light of Heaven, quickly pierced their Hearts.

Loy and Rick's Avatars lit up like stars on their muscled shoulders. After their treatment of Billy, Rick's Avatar of Truth and Freedom wasn't gentle as it shattered the emotional knots in them. Gripping their Minds and Hearts, Loy took them deep within themselves, driving his message into them. He used no Compulsion or influence, just Truth, emphasized by Rick's Avatar.

Loy: Your hypocrisy knows no bounds. You give lip service to love and forgiveness. You teach the story of redemption and faith, yet you're meeting without a second thought to destroy the life of a young man. What God do you serve? You know He sees you. He's watching right now. What do you think He thinks about your actions? How will you ever find Peace after kicking Billy to the streets with no means to support himself?

The Elders, shocked into silence, sat and listened. Loy's anger mixed with Unconditional Love rattled them, and they were frightened. Embarrassment followed in some, but Pastor Ryan's Heart hardened, and he was overcome with self-righteous indignation.

Wide eyed and yelling, "Get thee behind me, Satan!" he staggered backwards and fell on the alter steps.

Looking directly at Billy's father and pointing at Pastor Ryan, Ricky's thoughts entered Roger Crimmins' Mind: You love Billy. You know you do, but you're willing to let this man corrupt your paternal instinct. My husband and I Understand the Brokenness in humans. We see The Curse in you, and we know it's hard to overcome. Ultimately you can't on your own, but you can still fight it. Are you really going to abandon Billy? Leave him with no means to support himself?

Turning to Phil, he continued: And you? You won't let Billy stay with you, knowing what's going on. What happened to you in the last few years? After seeing what we did with Lucy, your eyes should be open, but you're even worse!

Through everything, Billy stood gaping, hardly believing what he saw and heard, but the Light and the Love shining from Loy and Rick steadied him.

Loy said to them all: You must learn to see beyond your bodies. Humans were created in the image of God. You think that means your physical form, but it doesn't. Love between all humans is beautiful, in each form it takes, whether it's parent to child, sibling to sibling, man to man, or woman to woman. Humans are created to be in relationships, not only with God but with each other – yet in ignorance, you stifle those you are taught are unnatural. Billy can't help who he loves any more than you can. You should be proud of him for who he is!

Stuttering in fear, Phil asked, "Wh ... who - what are you?"

The sound of fluttering wings filled the sanctuary, as a White Dove landed on the alter. Light suddenly burst forth behind Loy and Rick, startling not only them but the Elders as well. Appearing behind Ricky, Raguel stood with his wings spread wide as he put his hands on his grandson's heavy shoulders. Barachiel appeared behind Loy in the same manner, and the two Archangels shone so brightly the humans averted their eyes.

Raguel, his voice echoing in both Realms, said, "These are our grandchildren."

His face lighting up, Ricky turned and smiling asked, "Grandfather? Why are you here?"

Beaming back, Raguel said, "At Father's behest, we have watched the tragedy of young William's life unfold. These `Elders' of this house of worship are unlearned children who have much to account for. As leaders in this place which should be sacred, they hold greater responsibility to their fellow man. That one," he said, pointing to Pastor Ryan, "the false Prophet who leads all these men astray, even more so. The Most High has a message for him."

Gabriel's Trumpet blasted the sanctuary, clear and loud in all Realms as Michael, Raphael, Uriel, Saraqael, Remiel, Selaphiel, Jegudiel, and he appeared with wings outspread as they softly alighted.

Loy and Ricky simultaneously thought: Holy shit!

Reaching out to Brad, Loy thought: 911 Guys! Need you here! Like NOW!

The Archangels wore the same garb as the day of their grandchildren's wedding. Their Auras made their forms shine with inhuman grace and beauty such that the humans looked away, ashamed and afraid to lay eyes upon them. Cowering in fear, the Elders knew they were wrong. They always knew it, but pride and their Fallen nature allowed Pastor Ryan to manipulate them.

As One, Brad, Ken, and the guys appeared around Loy and Rick and saw everything through their Minds and Hearts that transpired up to that point, standing now as witnesses to what was happening. Henry, Aaron, and Albrecht were also present, yet Aaron and Albrecht's strange expressions indicated they knew something more extreme was about to happen.

Gabriel stepped forward holding his hands out and Proclaiming, "I, Gabriel, Herald of the Most High, bring you, Ryan Alfred Atkins, a message from our Father, who art in Heaven. You are judged a False Prophet by God Himself, and any hope you have of redemption lies in the choice before you. Continue your life as you have, and Uriel will take you to your personal Hell. Or choose redemption and serve God by becoming a true Prophet, the first in many Ages. Times of change are upon the world. Both paths are open to you, but base your choice in truth and not in fear."

Pastor Ryan still lay across the steps, shaking in awe and fear at the presence of the Archangels and the men they called their grandchildren. Gabriel walked with Pastor Ryan through his life just as Loy did with Raphael Martinez. Though he felt no judgment, Ryan wept in shame that his pride and lust for superiority led him astray. On his knees, he crawled forward to touch the hem of Gabriel's robe.

"I ... I want to serve..., to atone for my sins."

Nodding, Gabriel said, "Very well, Ryan Alfred Atkins. I, Gabriel, Archangel and Protector of the West, Herald and Voice of the Most High, take your earthly sight so may see Truth. I take your hearing so that you may Listen in silence to His Voice. Lastly, I take your voice, so you can utter no Untruth."

Pastor Ryan's eyes glazed over before turning milky white. Pat, and the others through his Understanding, knew that Ryan Atkins was now blind, deaf, and mute, but he shone with a purity untouched by The Curse. His Mind and Heart weren't Open as an Original Man, but he was fundamentally changed, now a Prophet of God.

To the Elders, Gabriel said, "You will care for the Prophet. He is like unto a child and cannot care for himself. You will feed, bathe, and clothe him, in addition to caring for his every need. As you were going to cast out young William, you are outcast and no longer welcome in the House of God until you redeem yourselves. Go! Take Ryan Atkins and make haste lest you all be destroyed!"

Raphael: Get them out safely, Brad.

Brad's Brothers, hearing Raphael through him, went into action. Loy and Rick grabbed Billy, and Ken picked up Pastor Ryan. The rest of the men pulled the Elders to their feet, and they all fled to the parking lot, as the blue skies overhead turned dark, and a great wind roared. The wind brought hail, and lightning ripped through the boiling clouds. The ten Archangels, with their wings spread wide, rose through the structure of the building to shine in the darkness as lightning, wind, and hail destroyed the church. The destruction took less than a minute, and upon the Archangels departure, the clouds dissipated and the sun shone on the rubble that used to be 12 Stone Baptist Church.

The guys had seen the strange look exchanged between Aaron and Albrecht, and Ken asked them, "Aside from what we just witnessed, are you alright? Is something wrong?"

Albrecht answered, "Aaron and I have lived through many ages in the mortal world. We lived in the time of the Prophets. Those were difficult days to say the least. If those times are returning..., today's world is ill-prepared."

Aaron said, "Nothing will happen overnight, but we must rethink our role in the world, and bide our time. There is much to discuss, Kenneth."

Regardless of everything that just occurred, Billy's eyes were focused on his father, and he meekly asked, "Dad?"

Rushing forward, Roger Crimmins broke down and embraced his son. His words were difficult to make out through his sobbing, but he said, "I'm sorry, Billy. I love you, son. I..."

Hugging his dad, Billy cut him off, saying, "It's alright, Dad. Can I come home?"

Smiling, Roger said, "Of course."

Aaron's eyes flashed White, and the Elders blinked. Aaron said to them, "You know how to reach us now. The onus of Ryan Atkin's care lies with you, but we can provide guidance. My partner, Albrecht, and I have experience in such matters."

Aware of the men's expressions upon seeing their mentor's outward display of his abilities, with the closest thing to a smirk he ever expressed, Aaron said, "Well... there is little use hiding our capabilities after they saw ten Archangels descend from Heaven, create a new Prophet, and then raze a building."

Aaron's facial expression made clear he would brook no jokes about his age, and the men smiled, shaking their heads. Looking expectantly at Lane, they waited for some Tolkien reference over everything they saw, but he said, "Guys, I got nothing this time. This is like..., I don't even know!"

In their Link, the shit talk started about Lane's lack of a fantasy quote to suit the situation.

Phil approached Billy and said, "Maybe you'd like to come home with me and stay with Will tonight. We need to figure out what to do with Pastor Ryan."

Billy raised his eyebrows, and his father said, "That's a good idea. Just know we love you, and your mom and I want you back. Have Will drive you over to pick up your car."

Moving to Rick first and then Loy, Billy threw his arms around them. He wept yet managed to say, "Thank you. For everything. I don't know ... I'd be on the street if it wasn't for you. Just thank you."

Ricky and Loy sandwiched Billy between them, their strong arms around him, holding him in their Hearts. Ruffling Billy's hair, Loy whispered, "You're welcome, kiddo. We're glad we could help."

Pulling his head back enough to talk, Billy, his eyes wide, asked, "Are those guys really your grandfathers?"

Loy said, "Yeah. Pretty cool, huh?"

<> 

Ricky: Loy, after all this, do you still want to head to the shelter?

Loy: Yeah, I do. Like I said before all this other stuff started, I owe it to the animals.

Loy's Brothers surrounded him, and Brad pulled everyone down into their Hearts where they appeared naked to one another in all aspects. Bolstering Loy, they wrapped him in their unconditional love and stayed with him while he visited the animal shelter where he took the Spirits of many distressed and infirm animals out of the Physical Realm. His Brothers took his burden as their own because they were One, and they loved him. It was the only way they knew to survive.

Drew cuddled with Loy on the couch after dinner that night, not mentioning anything about the day, but loving his uncle and taking care of him in his unique way.

<><><> 

That evening, even though they weren't on the duty roster, Ken and Brad were in their Lab apartment. Sensing tension in his husband, Brad needed to relax him.

"Ken, let's hit the hot yoga room for a few."

Ken's eyes brightened knowing what Brad had in Mind.

As they made their way through the kitchen, the noise of their second home wrapped around them. The TV was loud, and Drew, Tommy, Brett, and AJ reclined against Loy who was "doing Aslan" at their request while they watched TV. Empty popcorn bowls littered the coffee table and the floor around the boys. Ricky lay on the couch with his head in Darren's lap. He massaged Ricky's scalp while on the other end of the couch, Pat messaged Ricky's feet.

Through the ever-present Link, Brad knew Henry and Sally were having some private time, as were Bill and Kevin while the boys were occupied. Bryan and Lane were in the kitchen with Bryan puttering around making more snacks.

Knowing where Brad and Ken were headed, Lane asked, "Can I come to watch? There's no room in the den, and Bry gets irritated when I try to help. I haven't gotten my perv on in a while."

Bryan chose that moment to shove a large pot into Lane's hand and said, "No, you can't watch. Boil some water."

With a heavy sigh, as if the weight of the world were on his shoulders, Lane smirked and winked, saying, "You two lovebirds have fun while I slave away boiling water."

Brad and Ken chuckled their way through the kitchen to the locker room where they disrobed and heated the yoga room rocks. Ken's physical tension was apparent not only through Brad's Avatar, but also through his years of training and experience as Ken's caretaker.

Brad said, "Go ahead and sit and find your Centering Flame. I'll get things started and join you in a sec."

Ken sat in the lotus position, exhaling deeply and pushing the tension out of his Body and Mind. Steam soon filled the room, and he and Brad started to sweat. The moist heat felt wonderful flowing over their bare skin. Instead of sitting beside Ken, Brad knelt behind him, placing his hands on Ken's shoulders.

As always, the solidity of Ken's body affected Brad profoundly when he touched him - after nearly three decades, that feeling never stopped. Intimately aware of Ken's musculature, he felt the clearly defined muscle groups in his shoulders and back.

"Your shoulders are like granite. Let me work the tension out. Just relax."

Brad enjoyed caring for his husband. They didn't go through the massage therapy as often as they used too because Ken's mastery allowed him to Will away the tension. Knowing Brad wanted to touch him, Ken hadn't reached that level of focus yet – and he wanted Brad's touch.

Brad's Empathy flowed through their skin contact, just as through their Linked Minds and Hearts. They weren't merged yet because Brad wanted to focus on Ken without the distraction of his husband's beautiful Soul. He would before long, but not yet.

Brad knelt slightly above Ken, looking down at his neck and shoulders. Ken's smooth, tanned skin, shining with a light sheen of sweat felt so warm and inviting. Starting at his neck and shoulders, Brad adjusted Ken's skeleton, popping his neck and spine, and massaging every muscle group he could reach. Ergonomic massage chairs sat in each corner of the room, and he pulled one over so Ken could climb on it, making the rest of his body accessible.

Stopping every so often, Brad simply held his husband, loving him. Ken's body was so glorious and perfect that Brad had been erect since the first touch. Ken had too, but their dicks would get full attention after the massage.

Lost in his husband's ministrations, Ken let himself go. The vulnerable state he put himself in was another turn-on for Brad. After years of learning and honing the subtleties of his Avatar, Brad literally pulled the emotional stress out of Ken. Brad's Mind's Eye saw tendrils of negative energy arc from Ken's body into his hands, which Brad dissipated with his Mind.

Immersed in his husband, Ken pushed all his cares and concerns away simply to be Ken. The one thing he couldn't push back and would never want to was his love for Brad and the other people in his life. Sinking into the bond he and Brad shared, Ken drifted in their love while Brad's hands soothed and pleasured him.

Leaving the chair and lying down on the floor, Brad straddled Ken's waist and looked down on his exquisite form and handsome features. With arms spread out and totally relaxed, Ken's eyes remained closed as his chest slowly rose and fell with his soft breathing. His head tilted back, and his mouth opened slightly to emit moans of pleasure.

Once Brad was sure Ken reached the point of absolute emotional and physical contentment, he took things up a notch by reaching behind him to firmly grip Ken's erection. Ken arched his back, sucked in his breath, and his mouth shifted into the grin that drove Brad crazy.

Brad lifted and positioned himself above Ken and sank down onto him. Red fire erupted from their Core Energy Centers, and the first of many orgasms wracked their bodies. Fresh strength filled Brad as Ken's DNA reacted with his, and his own load sprayed across Ken's torso. Brad's orgasm was powerful as always, and he had to put his hands on Ken's chest to steady himself.

Opening his eyes, Brad met Ken's gaze. Ken's abdominal muscles were more defined as he breathed heavily in pleasure. The sweat over their bodies accentuated the incredible definition in both of them, and with their Core Energy Centers so bright and active, veins appeared across their swelling muscles.

Scooping up some of his semen, with his finger, Brad fed it to Ken. Immediately, brilliant Azure Energy arced from Ken's forehead to Brad's as his Mind expanded to its full potential. Brad started spreading the remains of his load across Ken's stomach and chest, rubbing it in like lotion and mixing it with his sweat. Ken's heat was almost as hot as the steam off the rocks, and he tensed his abs to lift his body into a sitting position.

Still inside Brad, he pressed their bodies together and wrapped his arms tightly around Brad. With his enhanced strength, Brad clenched his anal muscles around Ken, slowly moving his hips to massage him and enhance the sensation. Within seconds they got off again, and without stopping, Ken rolled them forward so Brad was on his back with Ken on top, becoming "that guy" for his husband. In his own way, Brad became "that guy" for Ken, and wrapped their Hearts, Minds, and Soul's as tightly as he could.

Tears fell from their eyes at the emotional and physical intimacy, from Ken in particular, for loving his husband with everything in him for the care Brad showed him. Brad knew what Ken needed and gave it to him in full measure, but now it was Ken's turn to reciprocate. As the Body, Ken was always more physical, which drove Brad crazy, but when Ken added his Heart and Mind, and their Souls merged, the emotions he evoked in Brad were almost unimaginable.

Their lovemaking was always epic. Sometimes it was just the physical need to get each other off, a hot "quickie," when the need arose. Sometimes it was more passionate and drawn out, but what Brad started this time was something they rarely did.

Even more special was the presence of their Brothers and mentors on the fringe of their awareness. Brad and Ken purposefully weren't shielding themselves. The Light they produced in the Spiritual Realm was like a star shining out for any creature with the means or ability to see. That wasn't their intent – Brad's intent was to take care of his husband.

So much was happening in their lives recently. After three years of mostly peaceful existence watching Drew, Tommy, and Brett grow and enjoy being boys, suddenly they were thrust once again into a rapidly escalating sequence of events that seemed to be spinning and accelerating out of control.

The stress on Ken as their leader was immense. He took all The Order's stress upon himself, not out of ego, but out of love for everyone else. He learned to share everything, but he never stopped wanting to spare the people in his life any pain or suffering, no matter the cost to himself. His Avatar gave him the strength to carry their stress if necessary. Bryan told him at the time of their second Awakening that Ken got stronger in ways he didn't realize, and he was right. As Ken often said of his buddy, there was always a lot more going on "in that noodle of his" than he let on. A few hours later, utterly exhausted and wanting to be held, Ken lowered his full weight on Brad. His body shook, not just from exhaustion but from chuckling.

The two men together thought: Fuck. I love you.

As always, when they were One, they made the same comment or exclamation. It still made them laugh whenever it happened.

Ken: I can't wait for the shit talk to start any second now.

Knowing his Brothers so well, Ken was right, and it started.

Lane: We ran out of popcorn a few hours ago, you horndogs. Warn us next time so we can be sure to have enough.

Bill: Thanks, guys! My prostate will send you the bill.

Loy: Payback will be an absolute bitch, you fuckers. I had to lie here with the boys on top of me the entire time and not get hard.

Ricky: You? What about me?

Lane: Yeah, seeing Aslan with a hardon would definitely scar them for life.

Darren: Aww, poor babies.

Henry: Sally says thanks! Me too. Holy shit, that was intense!

Ken: You whores loved it; you aren't foolin' anyone.

Bryan: So, what's your point?

The shit-talk ran its course, and Ken and Brad quieted their Minds while still holding each other in their Hearts. Once everyone settled, Brad thought: We're going to ZEUS for some private time, guys. Holler if you need us. Dar, would you mind?

<> 

Lane intended to make some more popcorn for the boys, but there was barely any left in the jar.

Lane: Man, we need to lay off this stuff. It doesn't have a ton of calories, but still, we burned through this entire jar in two days.

Kevin: I'd still rather the boys eat that than junk food. They eat better here than at our house, thanks to Bry.

Bill: Yeah, I made the mistake of buying some Twinkies, Ho Ho's, and Ding Dongs for snacks. Now that's all they want.

Loy: Well, you two are Ho's, so they get their fill of that every day. Ding Dongs, too, if you don't keep your bedroom door shut.

Darren: You two are poster boys for the entire Hostess snack line.

Laughing, Bill and Kevin shot Loy and Darren a Mental bird: Fuck off, Lion-O. You too, Dar.

Lane: Bry, let's make a quick trip to the store for popcorn. Before any of you bitches say a word, I'm not getting any crap food. I don't want to be on Bry's shit list any more than Henry's because there's sugary stuff for Drew to sneak in the middle of the night.

Henry: Thanks, Lane. Drew scours the cabinets for sweets, and it's just easier if there aren't any.

Darren: You want me to send you guys?

Lane: No, I'd like to drive for a change; you know, roll the windows down and feel the breeze.

Ricky: You feel the breeze whenever Bryan farts.

Rick's comment started a small tirade of fart jokes that had all of them laughing like juvenile school boys. Their laughter and shit-talk continued while the boys watched cartoons from the special archive Lane made just for them.

As Lane and Bryan left for the nearest grocery store, Lane thought: For real, guys, if anyone wants anything, let me know.

After talking about Twinkies, Ho Ho's, and Ding Dongs, the guys were hungry for something sweet but couldn't decide on anything.

Darren: Surprise us, but Bry needs to decide. We trust him.

Lane: Damn, that hurts.

Zack sat on the floor listening to all their shit-talk but not contributing. He couldn't help but laugh as he rested in the Link and felt the men's emotions around him. After everything he went through, he was still healing, but being around his step-uncle Kevin and his buddies was helping him in subtle yet powerful ways. Kevin and all the guys monitored Zack to ensure he was alright. They also watched Adam, who was on the floor with AJ, cuddled against Loy.

Loy asked: You doing alright, Zack? You're awfully quiet.

Zack was in a good mood, although pensive, and his response was hesitant. I'm good, Loy, thanks. Just taking everything in. Living here isn't what I expected.

Loy: What do you mean?

Zack: I don't know, after everything that happened when Uncle Kevin and Bill freed me ... seeing Archie and Buckles, and holy shit Uriel, the Archangel of Death ... I just thought things here would be more serious.

Loy: Like what? We'd float around all day singing hymns?

Zack knew Loy was giving him shit. Laughing mostly at himself, he replied: Well, yeah, sort of.

Loy: We're just guys, Zack.

Zack: But with everything you can do ... what's on your plate ... Uncle Kev explained it all to me about Drew and The Master ...

Loy: We're still people – sort of. Loy laughed before continuing: I mean, yeah, we're more than human, but we all started out as humans just like you. We do have Archangels for grandparents, which I admit is cool as shit. We have our Avatars, and we have a mission to save mankind – we're soldiers, just in a different War. You're seeing us in our chill time, but when the shit hits the fan, you'll see the other side of us. You're a part of that now too, and we're glad you're with us.

Zack: Thanks.

Loy: You'll eventually merge with all of us and see even more. I think the big stuff with Drew and The Doors will be easy for you, but seeing all of us on the inside will be kind of difficult. After merging, accepting another human, even one you love, is the most challenging hurdle to overcome at first. It stings like nothing you've ever felt, but then it's so beautiful you never want it to end. It's better than sex, which is saying a lot for a bunch of gay men with high sex drives.

Zack's eyes widened at the last part of Loy's comment.

Loy: Oh, come on. Your sex drive is just as strong as ours. It's part of the physical changes in you!

Zack: Well, yeah, but I never got to ... you know. They never let me. They used me for their own pleasure but never allowed me any because of Uncle Kev.

Loy's mental voice became much gentler and more compassionate when he continued: You'll be amazed at how freeing merging will be. Once you get past the body and know someone despite their faults ... we're all beautiful train wrecks in our own ways, in our Hearts and Minds. Merging with someone else changes your perspective on everything in this world, and I can't wait for you to have that. I'm not saying you should rush into it – you need to take things slow, but when you're ready, hold onto your hat!

Even in Loy's lion form, Zack heard the smirk in his voice: Don't worry, we'll keep you stocked with plenty of lube. You need to get back into practice!

Zack's face turned beet red, but he actually burst out laughing: Thanks!

<> 

Walking into Kroger, Bryan kept an arm over Lane's shoulder and kissed his cheek before letting him grab a shopping cart.

Not Linked deeply enough to talk, Bryan asked, "What do we need a cart for? We're just here for popcorn, right?"

Lane answered, "Yeah, but I want to browse around. The guys said to surprise them with something sweet, so we can wait until something we see grabs us and makes its way into the cart."

Lane seemed frivolous to almost everyone but Bryan. To others, his creativity expressing itself in day-to-day actions and decisions often came across as eccentric. Knowing he came across as wacky, he often played it up, but anyone close to Lane knew how brilliant he was.

At the end of the first aisle, Bryan said, "I need to hit the head. I'll catch up."

In the next aisle, Lane noticed a man leaning over his cart with his forehead against his arms. Lane's stomach twinged telling him something was wrong.

Lane asked him, "Is everything alright? Are you okay?"

Without straightening up, the man replied, "Just a little dizzy. My new blood pressure meds sometimes do this. Thank you for asking, but I'll be fine in a minute."

Lane's eyes flashed White as he looked at the man's energy centers and scanned his surface thoughts. Liam Elliot was in the middle of a cardiac event and wasn't aware of it yet. His left main artery, appropriately named "The Widow Maker," was almost completely blocked. Through Liam's energy flows, Lane saw stents in his LAD and PCA, but restenosis had him back to a high level of blockage in his other arteries as well. Without intervention in the next few minutes, Liam would suffer a fatal heart attack.

The sound of fluttering wings in the back of Lane's Mind alerted him to Uriel's approach. Sudden, intense anger gripped Lane at the thought of Liam dying alone in a grocery store. His Avatar showed all the indications of Puppet Strings, making him even angrier.

Casting his thoughts throughout Creation, he said: Alright, I'm going to one up you this time. I'm yanking these strings hard, and I don't give a flying fuck about the implications!

Bryan sensed Lane's sudden anger and thought: Lane? What's wrong? What's happening?

Merging, they appeared naked in their special place with their arms around each other. The comfort of Bryan's warm, solid body calmed Lane, and Liam felt intense love emanating from the stranger beside him, but intense dizziness prevented him from standing up when he tried to look at Lane.

Lane was astounded by how little Power he needed to Heal Liam. Lane and his Brothers had become so Powerful after their trials in fighting Evil that Healing a human was almost trivial. Placing a hand on Liam's back, Lane sent a gentle arc of Healing into him, clearing the blockage in his coronary arteries. Continuing, Lane removed all traces of arthritis and renal disease that hadn't been diagnosed yet. Liam's hormonal blood pressure cascades stopped immediately with Lane's Healing, and in seconds Liam felt better than he had in years.

When he stood up Liam had tears in his eyes from the aura Lane exuded. Before Liam could say anything, Lane Compelled him to forget the encounter and continue shopping. Lane hadn't bothered looking through Time to see what the long-term effects of his actions might be; at the moment he didn't care as he pushed back against the manipulation from outside forces, whether from God or the universe.

Bryan caught up with Lane and returned his arm to Lane's shoulder, mimicking the embrace within their Souls. Understanding Lane's actions, Bryan fully supported his husband, and loved him for what he did.

"You rock, Little Buddy."

Grinning, Lane had a sudden thought, "Hey Bry, did you ever have that rainbow popcorn when you were a kid?"

Bryan raised his eyebrows and asked, "What the fuck are you talking about?"

Lane said, "I haven't seen it in ages, but we can get some food coloring and make our own. I bet the boys'll love it!"

Chuckling at Lane's abrupt change from entirely changing a man's life to grocery shopping, they turned to go down the popcorn aisle but the sound of Uriel's wings fluttering made them stop. Lane's gut twinged again.

Lane: What the fuck? Bry? Something's going on...

Time slowed on its own as a little girl wandered by the end of the aisle. Her brightly colored parka had characters Lane and Bryan were unfamiliar with, and it was so puffy her arms extended out. Her sneakers matched the pattern of her parka, which reminded them of Drew always wearing clothes with superhero characters on them.

Through his Understanding, Bryan knew she was seven-years-old. He choked and teared up at the sight of her, and the Raven Wing tattoos on his thick forearms fluttered. There was more death in the little girl than life, and his Heart ached for her.

Bryan's sudden intake of breath caused the girl to turn. Her parka was so tight that she had to turn her entire body to see him, and the brightest smile that belied everything he saw within her lit up her face. The missing two front teeth made her all the more beautiful.

Through his Gift and Avatar, Bryan saw rampant cancer, the poison of chemotherapy, and radiation destroying her young body. She had no hair under the hood of her fuzzy parka ringed with fur. Her beautiful face was chalky and pale, which emphasized the dark bruising under her eyes.

Waving at the two men, she said, "Hi."

Lane saw everything about her through Bryan and his own Avatar. The girl's condition was tragic and unrecoverable at her stage of disease, but he wondered why Uriel now hovered around her while she was weeks from dying.

Bryan: Grandfather? What's happening?

Uriel: I am unsure, Bryan. The child draws me, even though it is not yet her time.

As emotionally difficult as it was, Lane knelt, returned her smile, and said, "Hey, beautiful! What's your name?"

Boldly, she said, "Teesha!

"What a pretty name! I'm Lane, and this is my husband, Bryan. I'm happy to meet you. Are you here with your mom or dad?"

Nodding, Teesha said, "I'm with my mommy. She's getting me medicine. I'm sick."

Despite his efforts, a tear dripped down Lane's cheek. Bryan's eyes were red and bright, but he managed to hold back his tears so as not to upset Teesha.

Looking directly into Lane's eyes, she said, "My mommy cries too. It makes me sad."

Suddenly her eyes widened, and looking over Lane's shoulder, she shouted, "Grammy! Grampy!"

Their active Avatars didn't sense anyone else in their aisle or anywhere near them. The Raven Wings on Bryan's forearms ruffled from just below his bicep down to his wrist, and Lane's Gift lit up within his Avatar as time around them stopped.

Lane and Bryan did not stop time, but each in his own way, perceived it as an effect from the Ripple Lane produced by Healing Liam. As they turned, both of their hearts lurched. Tag and Olive stood at the end of the aisle. Olive wore the purple floral-patterned dress she had when they met her in Grady Hospital, and Tag wore his finest suit, the threadbare brown one he refused to get rid of.

Teesha's plight already had Lane and Bryan crying, but the sight of Tag and Olive opened the floodgates so that they couldn't see. Like a gentle breeze in their Minds, Olive's voice was beautiful to hear once again. More astounding was they not only heard her, they felt her. Her Unawakened yet gentle spirit blew over them, and they weren't prepared for her touch on their Souls.

A smile covered Olive's wrinkled face, and in her soft, quiet voice, she thought: How are my sweet boys doin'?

Grinning ear to ear, Tag followed with: Hey, fellas.

Like Olive, everything about Tag touched Lane and Bryan deeply. This was inexplicable, almost indescribable – not a merge, but something equally as powerful.

Bryan literally shook with emotion, and in his trembling Mental voice, he asked: Olive? Tag? How can you be here?

Tag: Well, Bryan, that's a story that'll take more time than we got.

Olive: We only got a few seconds. I came `ta ask you `ta help my grandbaby, Teesha. She needs you somethin' awful.

Lane: How can you be here? You sacrificed yourselves...

Tag: Yeah, that we did. We can't say where we is exactly, `cause we don't rightly know. We is only here on accounta what that angel did `ta us.

Olive: We can see you. We watch over you, Henry and Drew, and the rest of you boys. I watch over my grandbaby, too, and I can't do nothin' for her, but you can.

Tag: Somethin' happened when you Healed that fella that allowed us `ta be here. Bryan's new wings got somethin' `ta do wit it too. We'ze caught in the crux of a few Ripples, like in a pond from throwing two rocks.

The old couple were already starting to fade, and Olive quickly said: Give my sweet boy Drew and his daddy a big hug and a kiss from us. They both still have stuff `ta do, and we'll be watchin' over them. Tell them. Give the rest of the boys our love too.

Olive's dark cheeks shone bright with tears as she said: We miss you so much.

Bryan and Lane together thought: We will. We love you both and miss you too!

Tag: Maybe we'll see you agin. Ain't no tellin' wit all dis craziness. We sure hope so.

Olive: Help Teesha!

With Olive's last words, she and Tag vanished, and time started moving again.

Deep within their Hearts, Lane and Bryan shook with emotion. Seeing Tag and Olive again, after thinking them dead and gone forever ... something Powerful was happening ... something outside the normal bounds and Laws of Creation. The elderly couple touched them... Yet to Bryan's Understanding, and even his Gift, Tag and Olive were never there. With no life or death in them, or any presence in the Physical of Spiritual Realm, they were there.

Lane and Bryan looked at each other wide-eyed and stunned speechless.

Teesha's smile faded along with Tag and Olive, and she looked crestfallen as she started crying and dove against Lane. Her frantic mother rushed by letting out an exasperated gasp when she saw them. "Teesha baby, I told you to stay with me! Come here, girl; you know you aren't supposed to talk to strangers."

Looking at Lane and Bryan warily, she grabbed Teesha's hand and pulled her away.

"It's alright, Momma. This is Lane and Bryan. And guess what? I saw Grammy and Grampy! They were here!"

"No, baby. Don't make things up."

To Bryan's Understanding, Teesha's mother was stressed nearly to passing out. She held back tears, and the surge of emotions within her was painful to see.

"But Mommy, they were here! Grammy had on her purple flower dress, the pretty one..."

Reading her, Lane knew the mother's name was Shaniqua Coleman, going by "Shan."

Swiping at his tears, Lane asked in a trembling voice, "Are you Tag and Olive's daughter, Shan?"

Lane's question floored her, and she said, "Wait. What? Who are you? What did you to do my baby?"

Bryan, the gentle giant brimming with tears, said, "We were very close to your mom and dad. They meant the world to us and lived with us..."

Anger overtook Shan, and her eyes narrowed, just like Olive's when she got angry. "I don't know what you want, but this is not funny. I don't know what game you're playing, but I don't want any part of it. Teesha, baby, come on!"

Teesha looked up at her mother and asked, "Why are you crying, Mommy? Are you sad again?"

"Never you mind, baby. Let's go!"

Lane blurted, "Teesha's right. Tag and Olive were just here. Please don't go, we..., we can explain."

Teesha said, "They're nice, Mommy. I like them. Grammy and Grampy like them too. Grammy asked them to help me!"

Bryan saw Shaniqua's physical reaction to Lane's words. The pressure she was under, the immense fear for her daughter, compounded with Lane's words, caused an immediate spike in her blood pressure. To compensate, her body reacted with a hormonal cascade causing her to faint.

Bryan Understood and moved with inhuman speed to catch her before she could fall and hurt herself. Lane caught her too, and with skin contact, he Read Shaniqua Coleman.

Tag and Olive had often spoken of their children and gave Henry incredible wisdom when Drew acted out after Liz died. Their only son, Killian, was killed by gang violence. Shaniqua's sister, who Teesha was named after, died in a car accident. When Shaniqua became pregnant with Teesha, the father disappeared. She didn't even remember his name, although Lane did from Reading her. When Tag returned from the war as an amputee, became addicted to drugs, and lived on the streets, Shaniqua didn't want anything to do with him and moved away. She kept in touch with Olive somewhat but distanced herself. Once Tag and Olive lived in the Lab with the guys, there was no more contact because Aaron and Albrecht thought it best for the safety of their daughter and granddaughter. As difficult as that was, they didn't want Shaniqua or Teesha becoming a target of The Enemy because of them.

Teesha cried out, "Mommy!" as soon as Shaniqua started to faint.

Bryan and Lane made eye contact and merged, bringing Shaniqua and Teesha into their Hearts. Just like earlier with Liam, anger burned within both men at the Puppet Strings toying with events, actions, and their emotions to manipulate them.

They owed Tag and Olive everything, not just because they loved the old couple dearly but the honored sacrifice they made to save everyone. Lane Opened Shan and Teesha's Minds and Hearts, and Teesha's sickness was more evident, especially to Bryan's Gift. Lane kept Shan unconscious to make sure Teesha wasn't frightened. Oddly, the little girl wasn't scared at all, just concerned for her mother.

Crying, she asked, "Is Momma okay?"

Lane responded, "Yes, honey. She's just sleeping for a minute. She's very tired."

Of all the things they expected to see in the Mind and Heart of a child, guilt wasn't one of them. Teesha's tears weren't from fear. She knew how tired her momma was because Teesha watched how hard she worked since Teesha got sick. Shan's insurance denied the medications Teesha needed, and the Kroger pharmacist was unable to fill her prescriptions. The cost of the medicines outside of insurance were astronomical, and she couldn't afford them. In her mind, the denial was a death sentence, and she had no idea what to do.

Teesha didn't seem to care they all were naked, but she shivered as if cold. Bryan held his arms out to her, and she snuggled against his warming body while the two men increased their Auras to shine the Light of their Souls on the mother and daughter.

Lane pushed Shan's fears and anxiety back before gently waking her. As her eyes fluttered open, Shan sat up and started at her nakedness, but instantly the Light of their Souls touched her. Her eyes teared at what she felt, and trying not to laugh at the inexplicable joy she felt, she covered her mouth with her hand.

"Where am I? What's happening?"

Gently, Lane said, "We're in our Hearts, Shan. It's hard to explain, but we brought you and Teesha here so you'll believe us. There's only naked truth in this place. Tag and Olive were in the store, briefly. You have no idea the sacrifice they made for the world. They've been dead three years."

By touching Shan's hand, Lane placed the memories of Tag and Olive in her Mind, from the time Loy and Rick found Tag in his box to when they sacrificed their Souls so Aaron and Albrecht could fight The Master, which gave the guys their only chance to win the fight.

He made the memories as gentle as he could, but the severity and importance of her parents' actions were clear to her, and she was speechless. She didn't know they were dead and was shocked to hear the news, but she was even more shaken at what they did and how important they were to the world. Tag and Olive were heroes!

Lane revealed the Truth about reality: the long Battle between The Light and The Dark, the story of Drew and The Master, and how The Curse of Eden blanketed mankind, keeping them in a broken state. After learning the truth, guilt riddled Shan. She threw Tag away and abandoned Olive out of association. What hurt most was that she knew through Lane and Bryan that Tag and Olive never gave up on her.

She lost her parents, she was going to lose her daughter, and she wailed in her Heart. Lane and Bryan gently held her, pushing their love into her. Then, through the part of his Avatar he shared with Ken, Bryan drove his Will and Conviction into her, letting her know Teesha would be alright.

Gripping Shan's hands, Lane said, "Teesha's going to be fine, Shan! I was going to Heal her before Tag and Olive showed up. We see what's in her and can eradicate it. This has been a messed-up night because normally we don't get involved in things like this. We have to protect ourselves and stay hidden from mankind to do our jobs, and as much as it pains us, we usually have to step away. But not tonight."

Privately to Bryan, Lane thought: I fell, hook, line, and sinker for the Puppet Strings, Bry. God knew I would get pissed about Liam and by Healing him cause the Ripple that allowed Tag and Olive to talk to us. This is just FUBAR'd.

Bryan: I know, Little Buddy. Let's finish here and get back to the guys so we can fill them in. There has to be more to this.

Through her tears, Shan smiled and said, "Did you hear that, Teesha? They can make you better!"

Teesha hugged Bryan around his neck and shoulders and kissed his cheek.

Lane's mischievous grin returned, and he booped Teesha's nose. "I have a very important question, Teesha, and I want you to think really hard about this, okay?"

She nodded, and Lane cupped his hand on her bald head, asking, "How long do you want your hair, and do you want it braided? Think really hard about how you want it to look. Close your eyes and picture you're looking in the mirror with just how you want it, okay?"

Squinting her eyes shut, Teesha did exactly as Lane asked, and he looked into her mind for what she wanted.

Bryan: Lane, let me take care of the cancer, and once it's gone, you can do her hair and the rest. I could do her hair too, but I'd just fuck it up, and she'd end up looking like Beetlejuice.

Lane couldn't help but laugh at that and thought: You're going to put me out of a job, Bry. Knock yourself out.

Setting Teesha down from his lap, Bryan's big hands wrapped around her torso. She was thin, so his hands reached all the way around her body. His Raven Wing tattoos fluttered, and Teesha's body was restored as he replaced the Death in her with Life. At the same time, White Healing arced from Lane's hands filling out her slight form. Her complexion normalized, bruising under her eyes disappeared, and her dark brown eyes sparkled above her toothless smile. Without the cancer and toxins in her body, her teeth would grow in naturally, and Lane didn't want to change them.

The image in Teesha's mind showed she wanted three large braids, one on top of her head and one on either side. Their combined efforts only took a few seconds, and Shan looked on in awe at what Bryan and Lane did for her daughter. She had no words to express herself, but her relief and thanks, a thousand times over, were clear to their Hearts.

Returning them to their bodies, Lane placed a Compulsion in Shan and Teesha to speak only to each other or to Lane or Bryan about what occurred. He imprinted the address of the Lab in Shan's unconscious mind and said: Come to us soon. We'll have to make sure you don't become a target of The Enemy because of who you are or our help. A miraculous Healing draws unwanted attention. You've been safe all this time, but we can't be too careful. Aaron, our father, will help cover Teesha's recovery, but you will need more Protection.

Still crying, Shan hugged both men just like Olive used to. Her petite body packed a powerful strength when it came to hugs. Teesha hugged and kissed both of them and waved goodbye.

<> 

Lane and Bryan stood still a moment to look at one another and smile. Then, Bryan put his arm around Lane who snuggled against his husband as they found the popcorn and food coloring.

As they pulled out of the parking lot, Bryan smelled the sugar coming from the Krispy Kreme donut shop across the street. The "Hot Fresh" sign flashed on, and Lane grinned.

Bryan said, "Fuck, Lane. The guys said they trusted me not to get something shitty."

In mock anger, Lane retorted, "Krispy Kreme donuts are not shitty! Besides, we'll eat them all, and there won't be any leftovers for Drew to find later."

Bryan sighed, "You make a point. Ok, we'll need a dozen each for us and the guys, and we'll get two each for Drew, Tommy, Brett, the doc, and Albrecht."

Including Henry, Adam, and Zack in "the guys," it totaled fourteen dozen donuts. To try and balance it out, he got fourteen pints of ice-cold milk.

Smirking, Lane said, "Yeah, like milk is going to make up for all this. They're going to love it and give us all kind of shit at the same time."

Bryan said, "Don't forget the `favorite uncle' points. Between the popcorn and donuts, we just topped the chart."

Exhaling loudly, Lane said, "Yeah, until Loy goes fucking `Aslan' on us."

<><><> 

Brad's Avatar synchronized with Darren's, and he and Ken appeared on the dive deck of ZEUS. The fresh, warm air exhilarated Ken's heightened senses as it wrapped around him. He never tired of the ocean's smell and breathed deeply. Ken and Brad were already naked and sweaty from the hot yoga room, and their muscled bodies shone like silver in the moonlight. To Ken, it was almost as bright as day, yet he could still see the spiral arm of the Milky Way.

The ocean was like glass, and a gentle night breeze blew across their skin. In the quiet, Ken heard and felt the GPS stabilizers' faint hum keeping the craft in position. The water lapping against the Yacht's hull comforted him. As One they dove into the water in perfect form, hardly splashing.

In the Spiritual Realm their Core Energy centers exuded red fire as they channeled oxygen from the water into their bodies. Diving down to the cooler water, they wrapped their arms and legs around each other, hugging tightly. They broke apart after a few minutes and kicked rapidly to the surface where they pulled themselves up the dive deck ladder.

Seeing Brad in the moonlight, Ken couldn't help but pull him into their signature full-bodied hug. Ken's deep voice whispered in Brad's ear, "Thanks, B, for doing this for me. I know I don't have `ta say it, but I wanna. You're the most amazing husband, and I love you."

Holding Ken tighter, Brad's response was an empathic surge of emotion that he sent into his husband. No thanks were necessary, and he loved Ken equally.

Separating, Ken said, "Let's go into the galley and find somethin' `ta eat." His little kid grin appeared as he continued, "We wore ourselves out, and I wanna recharge for later."

Brad rolled his eyes, shook his head, and grinned, but it faded quickly from what he saw inside Ken. After being profoundly merged in the last few hours, he was aware of everything in Ken's Mind. One advantage to being a Mentalist, along with his Avatar of Intellect, Intuition, Empathy, and Compassion, was that he often became aware of things in people before they did.

Ken always had been intelligent, not only smart but people smart, which made him such an effective leader. But, with everything starting up again, events were churning in Ken's Mind, and he needed to get a grip on it all.

As Brad pulled out everything to make sandwiches, he said, "Go ahead and start, Ken. We have the place to ourselves, and I'm all ears."

Very aware Brad already knew everything he was about to express, Ken breathed deeply and sorted his thoughts, loving his husband for letting him verbalize and work through his concerns.

"Fuck, B," he started, "I almost don't know where `ta start. After three years of no Master or Luke ... I mean dealin' with The Master's leftover flunkies hasn't been a cakewalk, but we barely scratched the surface with them around the world. Atlanta's in the best shape `cause we live there ... but with Drew back front and center and The Curse changin' – fuck, we don't have a clue why – and Luke's new Demons ... at least know something about `em now...

"I feel like I don't have a grip; like I'm outta practice on dealin' with everythin'. We got Raphael, and now Adam with his family, and Zack, everythin' with Henry and Eleleth, Drew and The Doors, Pat and Bry gettin' their Gifts..., Leroy shackin' up with another Dragon we didn't even know existed, and tellin' Bry he needs `ta Protect the egg that we don't have a clue where it is ... we don't know what Luke's game plan is other than he wants Drew dead ... Sally slowly dyin' ...

Brad let Ken get everything out, and when his voice trailed off, Brad asked, "Is that all?"

Raising his eyebrows, Ken exhaled and chuckled, "You tell me, brainiac. Am I forgettin' anythin'?"

Winking, Brad said, "Loy's birthday is in a few days."

They stared at one another a few seconds before laughing, and when they stopped, Brad said, "That covers all the big stuff. Luke, The Doors, Drew, Henry, Eleleth, Eleneth, and Sally. By the way, Adam wants to merge with everyone, which leads me to something else we need to consider – should we Awaken Adam and Zack?"

As if in response to Brad's question, Ken's stomach made its displeasure known.

Laughing, Brad exclaimed, "Damnit, I was trying to get the sandwiches made before that happened."

Rolling up a thick slice of fresh ham, Brad walked over and put it in Ken's mouth, and said, "Here. You'll have the rest in a minute."

True to his word, Brad set down "gut busters" for both of them, which didn't last long. Ken's hunger was appeased long enough for Brad to make two more sandwiches each. As Ken continued talking through his concerns, Brad's stomach abruptly twinged. His Intuition indicated something profound had just happened, and he held up a hand, signaling Ken to stop talking.

Ken went quiet, and Lane's voice entered their Minds: Guys, we need you to come back to the Lab. Something happened, and we should all be together for this. And there are donuts.

Lane wasn't panicked, but his emotional intensity was clear, and whatever it was, it was big.

Brad: Dar, when you're ready.

He and Ken vanished from ZEUS and appeared in the lounge of the Atlanta Lab.

<><> 

Because the four kids were in the lounge, Brad created the illusion of clothing on Ken and himself before they appeared there. The smell of sugar hit both men immediately, and they were shocked at the fourteen boxes of donuts spread around the room and on the laps of the guys. The boys, with frosting on their faces, had two donuts each on napkins.

Even with the threat of what was about to happen in the world, the scene brought smiles to Ken and Brad's faces. Their extended family, different from previous years but growing again as events accelerated, was settling in, and it felt right.

The cartoon the boys were watching was ending, so Lane asked Bill and Kevin: Hey guys, do you want Tommy and Brett in on this, or do you want to tell them later. Drew needs to be merged with us.

Kevin: The boys can go to their room to play and take AJ with them.

Lane, in a private thought to Henry: Get ready, Henry. This is going to be rough for you and Drew.

Apprehension hit Henry, and Drew felt his dad's reaction. While Tommy, Brett, and AJ went to Kevin and Bill's apartment, Drew looked to Henry.

Henry: Drew, honey, why don't you sit by me. Your Uncles have something important to tell us.

With no hesitation, Drew nestled against Henry. He was wearing his Atlanta Braves uniform, and Henry took the cap off of him and tossed it on the end table beside them. He ruffled Drew's hair as he pulled his son back against him.

Loy's form shimmered as he returned to his human body, and all the couples arranged themselves comfortably.

Ken: So, somethin' tells me your trip `ta the grocery store wasn't just a trip `ta the grocery store.

Lane and Bryan's eyes flashed White as the two men became One. Each couple followed and then all merged together. There was some surprise when Lane included Drew in the full merge. Aaron and Albrecht merged with Henry and the guys and they also were as deeply present as possible in the Hearts of Adam, Zack. Henry next pulled Adam into a full merge to see everything through him, creating a Paradox they had become used to. Adam's presence through Henry drove the need in all of them to merge soon with Adam and hopefully Zack.

As deep as they were, no time passed, so Lane gave Adam and Zack time to settle. Lane purposefully Shielded the events of the night, so no one yet knew what transpired, but Bryan's and his emotions were more apparent than ever, and curiosity ran rampant in all of them.

Lane: Guys, I want you to relive this with us rather than doing our typical "merge dump." There are a few things that are too important..., you'll see, and I want our Avatars full-on, so Ken, if you don't mind...

Ken's Avatar lit up, synchronizing with everyone else's, and the Runes of their tattoos shifted to the Master Rune of their combined Avatars as he locked them together. More than the sum of their individual selves, their Aura's increased as the full Paradox of their existence became tangible. Likewise, their Light increased and shone over Henry, Drew, Zack, Adam, Aaron, and Albrecht as it soaked into them, further warming their Souls.

With their locked Avatars and four Gifts active, the Puppet Strings that evening were more apparent. Lane started his memory, and they lived through his preventing Liam's heart attack, Healing his body, and Compelling him to forget meeting Lane.

Seeing Teesha was more painful with their Avatars combined, but when she shouted, "Grammy! Grampy!" and they saw Tag and Olive, their hearts nearly stopped. The Ripple of Tag and Olive's presence was the first time they ever felt such an effect in the Physical Realm. The Ripple's significance didn't hit Lane or Bryan in the store, but it gripped them all in the Merge and Link.

Olive smiled and when her soft, quiet voice filled their Minds: How are my sweet boys doin'? her presence ran through them like a gentle breeze. Each felt her embrace, and even smelled her favorite perfume.

When Tag grinned, thinking: Hey, fellas, they felt the same. At that moment, through the Ripple, he was with them and touched them.

Drew's emotional outburst of "Auntie Olive, Grandpa Tag!" was strangled through his tears. Henry's tears were just as thick, as he tried to comprehend what was happening. When the conversation in the grocery store ended as Tag and Olive started to fade, her words rang through them, especially Henry and Drew.

Give my sweet boy Drew and his daddy a big hug and a kiss from us. They both still have stuff `ta do, and we'll be watchin' over them. Tell them. Give the rest of the fella's our love too.

Henry and Drew felt Olive kiss their foreheads and Tag grip their hands, somehow reaching through time and space to that moment through the Ripple. Their touch, just like it was with Lane and Bryan, wasn't a merge but something just as powerful. As Tag and Olive faded, their presence did as well, and Henry's arms encircled his son as they both sobbed.

Immediately, each of Drew's uncles held him. The warm strength of their bodies and Souls surrounded Henry and him individually and collectively. Healed and pure, residing in Heaven, all of Drew's incarnations filled him again, magnifying everything he felt. Drew heard Tag and Olive's message, felt their touch, and his Soul absorbed it to the point that Light shone from his eyes, blinding all of them as his sorrow and pain over Tag and Olive's absence consumed him. Just as powerfully, his mother's absence returned to the forefront of his emotions. Tag, Olive, and Liz all sacrificed their Souls to save the world, and if Tag and Olive still existed, did Liz as well?

There is power in threes – such things matter.

The Dove's words echoed in their Minds from when He spoke to Ken and Brad at Waffle House. The idea rendered Henry nearly incoherent, and just as with Drew, the arms and Souls of all his Brothers embraced and cried with him.

Aaron and Albrecht combined their intellect, trying to comprehend what happened as they dealt with their own emotions. Tag said the Angel put something into them and, coupled with the Ripple of Healing Liam, it allowed Tag and Olive to manifest.

Aaron sometimes disliked his intellect. He often said intellect is not a friend to Compassion or Love, and this was one of those times. Liz wouldn't have received whatever the angel put into the old couple, which meant Liz most likely was gone and never coming back.

He labored over that thought because he knew how it would affect Drew, Henry, and his sons, but the naked truth of their blending prevented him from hiding it. Though not a certainty by any means, what was happening was beyond his experience and knowledge, even after living thousands of years. He hoped beyond measure that he was wrong, and Liz would one day again be with Henry and Drew.

Once Tag and Olive faded, everyone lived through the rest of Lane and Bryan's experience of Healing Teesha, and a deep concern ran through them over Shan and Teesha's safety. A sudden, miraculous cure of such deadly cancer would draw attention. Altering records and memories might not be enough given the unknown of Luke's abilities, and their collective thought was to have Shan and Teesha move into the Lab for safety.

More tears flowed at Shan's reaction to Teesha's Healing and new hair, but, overall, joy was paramount, and even if they never saw Tag or Olive again, knowing they still existed and were together made a difference. They would carry the touch of the old couple within them forever.

When the remembrance was over, Brad kept them Merged and Linked to recover and process the experience. Spending the equivalent of hours together, they laughed, hugged, and cried. Adam and Zack remained with them having learned more about the men who saved them and supported them simply by their presence.

Their deepest worry for Henry and Drew was over the dredging up of old wounds concerning Liz. Henry tried to Shield his own emotional turmoil from Drew, but with Drew's added strength from the incarnations dwelling within him, he pushed through Henry's resistance, and together they cried.

Henry's white forelock shone brightly, and in the place where their Souls were One, Drew touched it and shared his own wisdom with his Father.

It's alright, Dad. I want her back, too, but we have each other and my uncles, and Dr. Aaron and Mister Albrecht ... and we have my present.

Henry and Liz's wedding rings appeared around Drew's neck, and gripping them, he pulled out the memories of his mother to immerse Henry and himself in them. All the while, Ken, Brad, each of Henry's Brothers, and his mentors wrapped themselves around the father and son, holding them tightly in their Hearts and Souls.

Collectively, all the men pushed their love into Henry and Drew, telling them: We love you as our own – both of you. We miss Liz, too, and if she's truly gone ... well you'll never be alone as long as you have us.

There was nothing else to say or feel. Their emotions had run the gamut after reliving Lane and Bryan's memory and feeling Tag and Olive touch them. Finally, after resting in each other for a small eternity where hardly any time had passed, Brad took them back to their bodies.

<><><> 

The following day, Kevin was on "Sally duty" while she drove to the Lab, and in their Minds, they were complaining about Atlanta traffic.

Sally: I swear, Kev, it's probably a good thing I don't have any of your abilities. My road rage just keeps getting worse the longer I live here. If one more moron cuts me off, I'm afraid I'd lose my temper and blow their car up ...

Kevin felt Sally slip from the Link and he instantly went deep in his Mind to give himself time to react.

Bill! Guys! Sally just passed out behind the wheel and slipped out of the Link ...!

They knew where she was through Kevin, so Brad started scanning Minds in the area to look through driver's eyes until he found the person behind her.

Translocating into her moving car was unsafe because Brad's image wasn't clear enough through the other driver. The car's momentum was easy enough to compensate for – they repeatedly trained and honed their abilities to overcome such obstacles.

Sally's car hadn't time to veer off course before Loy, who stood in the kitchen drinking coffee with the guys, shimmered as he translocated into Sally's car as a hummingbird, hovering above the passenger seat of her car. Using Loy's tiny eyes, Darren grabbed Sally, and she appeared in his arms in the Lab. Shimmering again, Loy appeared as himself in the driver's seat.

Rushing into the main exam room, Darren set Sally down while everyone gathered around her. Their Avatars told them that her vitals were terribly weak. Bringing his Gift to bear, Pat noted the spike of toxic energy pulsing through her Heart, Mind, and Soul, draining her existence.

Bryan's Raven Wing tattoos fluttered as his eyes glimmered with Life Energy. Loy and Lane joined Pat and Bryan to empower their Gifts. They didn't synchronize like their Avatars, but they communicated in a way they had yet to Understand.

With tremendous effort, Pat altered the area around Sally as he had done before, changing the Laws of Physics and slowing the effects of what was happening. Bryan reinforced the Life within her to make her stronger. Once Pat and Bryan stabilized Sally, Lane brought the temporal aspect of his Gift into play to buffer Time around her. Other than communication, Loy's Gift wasn't suited to what was happening, other than communicating with the others, so he offered support while driving her car to the Lab.

Aaron: Lane, remove the temporal barrier for a moment, but be ready to replace it quickly.

Lane's Avatar lit up, and Time started moving around Sally again. She seemed stable after Pat and Bryan's efforts, and awoke in a panic.

Putting a hand on her shoulder, Aaron said, "Be still, Sally. You are fine and with us at the Lab."

Her eyes focusing, she asked, "What happened?"

Aaron responded, "You fainted, my dear, while driving here. I believe the time has come for you to move back in with us."

Creasing her brow, she said, "I feel alright. I don't remember anything ... Kevin and I were laughing about road rage and now I'm here."

A box of tissues appeared in her hand, and she said, "Thanks, Dar. You're such a sweetie."

Ken asked, "You sure you feel alright?"

Sally said, "I do, Ken. I wasn't feeling bad this morning at all ... this happened out of the blue. Geeze guys, I'm really sorry."

Sally wasn't back in the Link yet, and Albrecht thought: It seems Bryan, Pat, and Lane helped, but we don't know for how long.

Pulling Sally into a snuggle, Ken said, "There's no need to be sorry, Hun."

<><> 

In the Lab but veiled, Eleneth watched Sally in her bed while Pat, Lane, Bryan, and Loy worked to stave off the effects of the toxic Void energy within his mother. Desperate, he didn't know what to do. Being near Sally was painful for him as the toxins increased within her, and he was afraid that she soon would die.

Eleneth didn't understand death, other than it meant Sally would be gone, and if her Soul survived it would be where he wasn't allowed. Once she was stable and awake, Eleneth vanished.

<> 

Orophir fumed in helpless frustration at his inability to do anything. His Spirit Trap was open, and he could leave at any time; however, he knew he would instantly cease to exist in The Void if he did.

From studying the black stone with its green energies, Orophir deduced as much by listening to Elegroth boast of his plan to his underlings. Orophir felt oddly sad for his father, Luke, who was also imprisoned. He wondered if any part of his father remained within Elegroth, but thought there must be because the Archon needed him to carry out his plan.

Eleneth appeared within the gem, and Orophir saw he had been crying. "Why do you weep?"

Eleneth replied, "My mother ... she is weakening, and I fear her time is nearly up."

Orophir said, "I am sorry. I never knew the human woman my father used to sire me. I do not know her fate, but I am sure my father killed her. Did you find Istariel? Have you spoken with him?"

Eleneth said, "No. I cannot find him. The Spiritual Realm of your Creation is foreign to me, and I find it difficult to traverse. You said you know of a way to save my mother?"

"I believe so, but you must help, and it will be very dangerous and painful for both of us. However, if we succeed in saving your mother, perhaps we can save my father as well. If we cannot save him, at the least we can destroy him."

"What must I do?"

Orophir said, "Bring me a piece of the black stone."

Orophir's words sparked great fear in Eleneth because touching the stone might kill him. Eleneth feared involving his father for two reasons: Eleleth's anger, and for his father because Elegroth boasted of being the mightiest Archon. If Eleleth intervened, Eleneth was afraid of what Elegroth might do to him.

Orophir hoped Eleneth would aid him. Eleneth was young and immature; however, he had a unique ability to move freely between the two Creations and The Void. As the child of an Archon, he was also extremely powerful which worried Orophir because the combination made Eleneth wildly unpredictable.

Turning his thoughts to the black stone, Orophir discerned that it embodied Void energy. Elegroth crafted it to collect Power to be used at his whim. Through Luke, Elegroth could breach reality in the Second Creation but not the First. Only this kept what remained of the First Creation safe.

Elegroth knew that he didn't need to breach the First Creation if he killed Drew and opened The Doors. The energy released from the clash of the two Creations, coupled with the Power residing in the black stone, would give Elegroth the Power necessary to create a Third Creation of his own device.

Orophir's hope resided in the naïve and untried nature of a powerful child, and he prayed Eleneth would find the courage to help him. Reaching his friends and allies to warn them of the danger was Orophir's only hope. The Paradox of their Free and Unfettered nature held the only chance of overcoming what Orophir saw and heard.

<><><> 

Even though Sally was stable and awake, Dr. Aaron told Drew, Brett, and Tommy their lessons would be delayed until after lunch and possibly for the day. Drew noticed that Ken also called off training in the gym.

His uncle Bryan made brunch to keep everyone occupied – when bad things happened, food was a source of comfort for all of them. However, Drew knew it was more than the act of eating that settled everyone – with the wisdom of his eighty-thousand-year-old Soul, he understood far more acutely than a typical child of ten years how his uncles cared for each other and everyone around them. He also understood how Bryan imbued the food with love as he cooked, and when they ate, that love became even more a part of them.

Drew retreated to his room after he saw Sally awake and heard her voice, thankful she was alright for the moment. His emotions still churned over Tag and Olive and her message to Henry and him. Not only the message, but she kissed his forehead. He felt not just her lips but her Soul. He missed Tag and Olive terribly, nearly as much as Liz.

The burden of The Doors and what they meant rested heavier on his young shoulders after Olive's message. Drew was scared for Henry and what his father might have to do. If Henry was forced to blend with Eleleth again, he might be gone from Drew's life forever, and then he would be without Henry and Liz. Drew more than anyone understood sacrifice, but that understanding never lessened his anguish. He would still have his uncles and Dr. Aaron and Mr. Albrecht, whom he loved beyond measure, but it wouldn't be the same, and he felt guilty for feeling that way.

He loved the way his uncles smelled when they held him, whether it was in their Hearts and Souls or in the locker room or the gym, either freshly showered or hot and sweaty, but none of them smelled like Henry. Thoughts of his dad and uncles caused him to get hard again which added to his guilt. He wished he didn't have those feelings, but he did.

Sitting on his bed, Drew started crying. He picked up his baseball glove, put it on, and punched his fist into it like he saw the players do on TV. He was floundering out of his depth. He died once already to sacrifice himself to save his dad and uncles. He saved the world too, but that wasn't his reason. He did it to save the ones he loved more than the world.

Cavall, sensing Drew's unrest, jumped on the bed and curled up beside him. Bullet followed, and the ever-present Wolf-Spirit made herself known. They comforted him in their own way, but it wasn't the only comfort he needed.

The pressure of the unknown, coupled with the desire of seeing his mom again but realizing it most likely would never happen, crushed him. Crying out in his Heart, he called to The Dove. His cry had no words, just emotion, but he sought comfort he desperately needed.

<> 

In the kitchen, Henry's lock of hair brightened imperceptibly, and in his Heart, he heard an echo of fluttering wings. Instinctively, Henry looked around for Drew, and his heart sank when he didn't see him.

<> 

A quiet knock on his door snapped Drew out of his reverie. Henry never opened Drew's door without knocking, respecting his son's privacy, and Drew knew his dad was checking on him.

"Come in, Dad."

Henry saw Drew's tears which started his own, and he asked, "Are you alright, Tiger?"

Drew wanted to say yes and pretend everything was alright, but he couldn't.

He tried to say, "No," but it came out high pitched and garbled.

Henry glanced at Cavall, and thought: Make room for me.

Cavall nudged Bullet, nearly pushing him off the bed, and the two dogs resettled themselves to give Henry room. He sat beside Drew, put his arm around his son, and squeezed them together.

Kissing the top of Drew's head, Henry said, "I know, Tiger. Me neither."

Henry's new wisdom ran deep, and he knew a simple conversation couldn't begin to touch Drew's issues. So, merging with his son, Henry wrapped Drew in his Mind, Heart, and Soul, taking them deep to that special place within them.

Naked together, Drew leaned back against Henry's chest as they sat together on the floor. Henry's arms and warmth wrapped around Drew to settle him. Drew's pain ran just as deep, if not deeper, than Henry's, and father and son cried together until there were no more tears. Both of them sweated from the emotional strain, and Henry soothed his son by rubbing his back, ruffling his hair, and kissing the top of his head.

When the tears finally stopped, Henry started the conversation. He could not assure Drew about seeing Liz again, or even that Henry would always be around. If Luke attacked in force, and there was no choice but to blend with Eleleth to save Drew ... it was all an unknown.

The incarnations existing in Drew again worried Henry to no end, but at least now they were healthy and mentally stable. He saw Drew's Power, quiet at the moment, but the older Drew got, the greater his potential grew.

"What it boils down to, Tiger, is we have to take things one day at a time."

Smirking, Drew asked, "You mean like that TV show?"

Henry couldn't help laughing, and said, "Lane really needs to lay off the eighties sitcoms with you boys."

Sniffling and wiping his eyes, Drew smiled, saying, "Schneider makes me laugh."

Henry said, "Okay. Well, sort of like the theme song then, I guess. My point is we have to live in the present and love each other with everything in us day by day. We don't know what will happen tomorrow or years from now, but we can't let the fear of the `what ifs' keep us from living. Does that make sense?"

"Yes, Sir." Through their merge, Henry knew Drew understood. Drew's maturity, sensitivity, and compassion never ceased to astound him.

"You're so much smarter than me when I was your age, Tiger. I'm glad you take after your uncles on the Mental side."

Henry's eyes watered again when Drew hugged him and said, "You're smart, Daddy. Just as smart as uncle Brad and Dr. Aaron. To me anyway."

"You're good for my ego, kiddo. Hey, there's something else we need to discuss. I've been Shielding this from you, but we need to have another talk. I can see how much you're bothered by the thoughts you're having about your uncles and me."

Drew's face flushed red, but Henry hugged him tighter.

"There's no need to be embarrassed. Every human of any gender goes through the same thing. This is a time of experimentation and discovery, and I'm thrilled it's happening. It's perfectly natural. Me and all your uncles went through it ...," and before Drew could say anything, Henry said, "Yes, even Dr. Arron and Mr. Albrecht! Promise me you'll come to me with any questions or problems, alright? No matter how big or how small. This is nothing to fret over."

Drew didn't answer in words but nodded his head.

"It's probably best you don't talk about all of this with Brett, Tommy, or AJ. Brett and AJ especially. Tommy is still a few years away this stage, but you're aware of it because you had to merge with Darren and me, so this is partly my fault ..."

After a short pause, Henry said, "I have something for you. I'll be right back."

Henry retrieved a small Tupperware tub from the closet in his bedroom. He held the tub out and Drew took it, pulling off the lid. It was filled with washcloths and bottles of lube.

"You know from merging what I have to do every day to make my powers stronger. Even before my changes, I masturbated many times a day. Every boy learns about it, and every man does it, whether they admit it or not. It's perfectly okay to do it in the privacy of your room. Just keep the door shut, and keep this stuff hidden so Tommy and Brett won't find it when they play in your room."

Drew timidly smiled, his face still red, and he said, "Thanks, Dad, I love you. You're the best dad in the world."

"Yeah, yeah, I know. I got the t-shirt to prove it, too.

"There's a sealed hamper in my room. Put the towels in it after you clean up so we won't have to smell them. I'll wash them with our clothes and put them back for you."

"Okay."

Henry had waited to give Drew the box at the end of their conversation to lighten his mood. It was one of the few worries he could take from Drew's shoulders.

"Why don't we go see what your Uncle Bry is cooking. I bet he needs some help from his favorite nephew."

Getting off the bed, Drew threw his arms around Henry's waist, and pressing his face against Henry's stomach he pushed his love into Henry's Heart.

Henry's Brothers knew what occurred and pulled him into their private, adult Link, while pulling Drew into the general Link Brad kept up all the time in the Lab.

Drew went straight to Bryan who enlisted his help in the kitchen. Ken squeezed Henry's shoulder, ruffled his hair, and whispered, "He's so lucky `ta have you, Henry. We are too, Brother. You handled that perfect."

Aaron, standing close by, said, "Yes, my boy, you did. I'm very proud of you."

In the private Link, the shit-talk started.

Lane: Don't tell him that; he'll get a big head.

Darren: He already has a big head. Just ask Sally.

Henry: Will you guys ever stop perving on my dick?

Lane: None of us will, Henry. It's what we do. Get over it.

Loy: You should never have referred to your dick as `the python,' Henry. That was the biggest mistake of your life.

The ribbing had the desired effect. Henry felt his Brothers' love and care, which he returned in full measure.

With no training for the adults or lessons for the boys, the day ended up being a fun time for all of them. As Kelly often said, they did a lot of "fuck all," eating, watching movies, playing games, and more eating.

Sally stayed in the lounge with them laughing and enjoying the day. She even slipped away with Henry for some private time, but tired later in the afternoon. She didn't faint, but she got on the couch with a blanket, and everyone could see she didn't look well.

<><><> 

In the middle of the night, Drew's bladder woke him. Lane had made the "rainbow popcorn" earlier, and while delicious, it was salty, and Drew drank a lot before bed. Although he slept naked, he usually didn't put on underwear to walk through the Lab to the bathroom, but he had an erection and didn't want to run into anyone. After slipping into his superhero underwear, he passed his dad's bedroom and got into the hall without waking Henry. Cavall and the Wolf-Spirit went with him, but Bullet never woke up from snoring and whimpering in a dream. When walking back through the kitchen after relieving himself, he nearly stumbled as a feeling hit him. He had felt it before - Eleneth.

Looking around but not seeing anyone, he said softly, "Why are you hiding?"

Drew jumped when Eleneth appeared only a few feet from him. Cavall's silver eyes perceived Eleneth and he immediately moved in front of Drew, not growling but protective. He sniffed at Eleneth who was unsure of Cavall's motives and started to draw back.

"It's ok. Let him sniff you, so he knows you're a friend."

The Wolf-Spirit could sense but not see Eleneth, and before she could howl a warning to Loy, Drew said, "He's a friend, Grammy. You can't see him, but he's a friend."

Eleneth looked distressed but not about Cavall. Drew read his body posture and wondered at it.

Drew asked, "What's your name?"

"Eleneth," he said.

Drew asked, "Is something wrong?"

Eleneth replied, "I'm afraid."

Drew asked, "Of what?"

His voice sad, Eleneth answered, "Many things, but mostly of my mother dying. I see the poison in her."

Drew said Compassionately, "Me, too. I love Miss Sally. My uncles can't make her better. Usually, they can Heal anybody, but not her."

Sniffing, Eleneth quietly said, "It's because of me."

Silence fell between them before Eleneth continued, "Orophir says he knows how to help her, but I must help him, and I'm afraid."

Drew blurted, "Orophir's alive?! He was there when my brother died! He fought his father and got sucked into some kind of hole ..."

Eleneth nodded, saying, "Yes, he did. He is alive but trapped. He needs me to acquire something for him that will hurt me to get. He said his plan will hurt both of us, but he needs to get here and talk with you. He keeps asking me to find another Nephilim named Istariel, but I cannot."

His Mind in full adult mode, Drew was shocked and stunned at what he heard. To keep calm, he found his Centering Flame. Dr. Aaron and Mister Albrecht encouraged him to always look at a problem from all angles and gather every fact possible before drawing a conclusion.

Tentatively, Drew asked, "What does Orophir need you to get?"

Eleneth shivered replying, "In the place he is trapped, there is a large stone. It is the source of the poison within my mother, and it hurts me terribly to be close to it. He needs a piece of it to help her."

Drew stated, "Then you have to get it!"

Eleneth whined, "But it hurts when I get close and might kill me if I touch it."

Anger burned in Drew from frustration. Taking a deep breath, his Compassion overcame his ego when he remembered that Eleneth was younger than he. So many things were missing from Eleneth's life, and Drew realized the problem.

Drew asked, "Have you talked to your father about this?"

Facing away, Eleneth said, "No. I fear for him if I do. Besides, I don't think he trusts me."

Drew sat on the couch and said, "Come over here," patting the spot next to him.

Eleneth sat beside Drew. It was a strange moment for Drew who now strangely felt like an adult. He brought forth all the memories of his talks with Henry and everyone else in the Lab, but especially Auntie Olive and Grandpa Tag. When he was upset after his mom died, they helped him the most as they taught Henry how to help him. Using that wisdom and experience, Drew began helping Eleneth grow up. He understood that Eleneth's Mind and emotions didn't yet match his body, so Eleneth didn't know how to put someone else's care above his own.

Drew said, "I don't know how to explain all this very well. It's easier to show you."

Drew invited Eleneth to take his hand.

"I won't hurt you. Don't be afraid. I just want to show you some things that happened before you were born."

Eleneth wasn't used to physical contact which was another of his issues. Drew sensed his friend's lack of unconditional love and guidance and wanted to share those things most of all.

Drew gently pulled Eleneth into his Heart, just as he did when Eleneth was nothing more than a tiny spark of life. Drew's own life, all the pain and abuse of his birth father, Ken and Brad saving him, and Henry coming into his life ... his own growth and finding out about The Master being his brother, and his uncles protecting him along with Henry, of Henry dying at the Eschphene High Temple ..., and finally Drew sacrificing himself so that The Master would ask his forgiveness, thereby saving everyone.

In addition to the history of his life, Drew pushed his love of Henry and all the people in his life into Eleneth to help fill the emptiness in his friend's life. Eleleth didn't know how to be a father. Even with the wisdom gleaned from blending with Henry, Eleleth had no experience and left Eleneth to his own devices.

Eleneth, like a sponge, absorbed everything Drew shared with him. He cried through it, sometimes from sadness and sometimes from joy. He marveled at Drew's life and all the incarnations within him.

When they finished and separated, a determination showed on Eleneth's face that was absent before. Eleneth understood his love for Sally and could no longer let his fears keep him from helping her. However, he still didn't know how to get a piece of the rock for Orophir.

Smiling, Drew said, "I have an idea."

Drew ran to his room to retrieve his baseball glove. Holding out his hand, he summoned The Stone from Thomin's Vault, and it appeared still stained with the blood of his first self. This time was different, though ... The Stone also simultaneously appeared in the palms of every one of the incarnations. Collectively, their fists clenched it and shook with the strength of their grips, lighting The Stone from within, causing smokey Power to seep forth.

Offering The Stone to Eleneth, he said, "Take this. Use it to break off a piece of the stone and pick it up with my glove so you don't have to touch it."

Like his father, Eleneth could see into things, and after experiencing Drew's life history, he knew what The Stone was. The Void stone was Powerful, laced with green energy from the space between Creations, but Drew's Stone was the source of The Curse that held the Two Creations apart. It was perhaps the only item in existence that could allow him to succeed.

Eleneth smiled and said, "Thank you for teaching me. I'm going to save my mother because of you."

Eleneth vanished leaving Drew by himself. Hoping he had done the right thing, Drew went to wake up Henry.

Email: Brad Townsend - bookofloagaeth@gmail.com

Twitter: BATownsend_Author @BookofLoagaeth (this is my official `author' Twitter, but the one I use every day is Brad A. Townsend (@Southguy49).  It's an 18+ NSFW Account as you can imagine, but that's where I hang out.  It's my only social media presence at this time other than TikTok, but I only watch videos there and don't post anything.)

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