The Gifts

The Order Chapter 4

The Order

Copyright © 2018 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.

Chapter Four – Prologue

Retired Four-Star General Theodore `Ted' Burgess anxiously awaited Dr. Cromwell's arrival.  After nearly twenty years he would finally have the information necessary to restart Project Glass Hand, except this time it would be under his direct command and not some panty waste doctor!  He still had contacts at the Pentagon, and with the financial backing of his new benefactor he could recreate the Spec Ops team and use them however he wanted.  

His new patron wouldn't meet in person, and so far all communications were one-sided, but they shared a common goal, and the General was practically willing to sell his Soul to get revenge on Dr. Thomas for ruining his career.  Little did the General realize his Soul was precisely what his new mysterious patron wanted as payment.

Dr. Thomas covered his tracks so well that even after nearly twenty years the General was still unable to discern his whereabouts or the identities of any member of the Glass Hand Project.  His new benefactor must have deep pockets and even deeper contacts because he not only managed to identify former Lt. Commander Bruce Dutcher, now Ken Habersham, he also located one other member of the team, a Lt. Alan Whetherson now known as Brad Wilson.  

Of the two, Dutcher was the one he wanted.  If he could manage to duplicate Dutcher's physical attributes and abilities, he could create an unstoppable team.  Then he would discover who this so-called benefactor was and take him out so he could run things the way he wanted.

He wished Cromwell would hurry up.  It was blistering hot outside, and the AC in his Escalade couldn't keep up with the outside temperature.

A few minutes later the General heard another vehicle pull up.  Looking in his rear-view mirror, he watched Dr. Cromwell's tall, thin form get out of the car.  The General wanted to get their meeting over with quickly; Cromwell reeked of pipe tobacco which always made the General's nose itch.

The General lowered his window as Cromwell approached.

"So, do you have it?"

"Yes, General.  I think you will be most pleased with the results.  My team is still deciphering much of the data, but we have enough to move forward, perhaps as soon as next week."

Dr. Cromwell handed the General a small flash drive.

The General's usual gruff demeanor didn't change, but internally he was elated.  Finally, revenge on Dr. Thomas was within his grasp!  Once he had his team together, Dr. Thomas and the original Glass Hand operatives would be his first targets, then his new benefactor, and then anyone he wanted who might get in his way.

"Just keep the data coming Cromwell and keep me apprised of your progress.  I'll contact you in another week to see what else you manage to uncover.  I want to know as soon as you think we can start work on live subjects."

"Yes, General.  I am sure it will not be long."

<><>

General Burgess couldn't wait to get home and look at the contents of the flash drive.

As soon as he arrived at the house, he hurried up to his office and plugged the flash drive into his PC.  Once the drive was recognized the icon appeared and he entered his encryption code in a window that popped up.  The contents of the drive appeared, and he clicked on the summary file first.

He couldn't believe it!  It had to be a joke!  What the hell was Cromwell thinking!?

The title across the top of the page read, "Calculating the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow."

The General slammed his fist down so hard on his computer desk the keyboard popped up and nearly fell to the floor.

Undoubtedly there was some mistake!  He yanked the flash drive out and looked at it.  The number 42 was handwritten on the outer casing of the flash drive.  In his haste to put it in, he must have missed it.  Cromwell was an idiot, putting the encryption key on the outside for anyone to find it.

He entered the number instead of his standard code and the screen blanked out.  After a short delay text started appearing a letter at a time in a large font, spelling out:

"So long, General Burgess, and thanks for all the fish!"

The General's eyes turned white, and he stared blankly at the screen after reading the message.  He sat perfectly still as invisible runes placed inside the casing of the thumb drive activated, erasing the memories Dr. Thomas wanted gone.  General Burgess then got up, flushed the flash drive down the toilet, and went downstairs to polish his golf clubs.  All thoughts and knowledge of his time with Project Glass Hand were now gone from his Mind as though they never existed.

Dr. Cromwell was now in charge of a team of top-secret scientists who would spend billions of taxpayer dollars to calculate the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow; both the African and the European variety, in case there was any doubt of the speed between the two.

Chapter Four

Brad seemed to be going downhill fast, and Ken didn't know what to do about it.  That day, while Ken was on assignment with Kevin, he texted the doctor and asked to meet at the Lab in the afternoon.  It was a 711 message, and the doctor texted back immediately saying he would be in the Lab all day and to come as quickly as time allowed.  Ken was on edge the rest of the afternoon, wanting to talk to the doctor.  

When Ken and Kevin were done with their client Ken said, "Kev buddy, we need to swing by the Lab before we go to the office."

"Ken, you've been majorly distracted all day. Is there something going on you want to talk about?"

"Brad's been actin' weird the last few weeks, and it's getting' worse.  He's not sleepin' good, and he won't talk `ta me about it.  I wanna talk to the doc."

"Shit man, I'm sorry.  You know if there's anything Bill or I or any of the guys can do all you have to do is say the word.  I'm sure the doc will figure out what's up."

"Yeah, I hope so, Kev."

After a slight pause Ken mumbled under his breath, "Fuck, I really hope so."

Ken let out a heavy sigh and stared out the window as Kevin drove, worried about Brad and what could be wrong. His gut told him it was something serious.

<><><>

When Ken walked into the Lab, he was surprised to see the doctor having a serious conversation with Lane and Bryan in his office with the door shut.  When the doctor saw Ken, he quickly brought things to a close.

Ken hadn't seen Lane or Bryan for a few days, and when they emerged from the doctor's office he noticed Lane looked exhausted and his hair was disheveled.  He gave Kevin and Ken a `whaddup' nod and a subdued "Hey, fellas" as he walked by, but his usual grin was absent.  Bryan, following him out, had a helpless look on his face.  Bryan gave Kevin and Ken passing backslaps as he walked out but didn't say anything.

Ken lowered his head and muttered under his breath, "Shit! Is everythin' goin' `ta pot?  What was that about?"

The doctor, standing at the door to his office said "Nothing you need to be concerned about Kenneth.  They will be fine, and you will know more soon enough.  Trust me that it is not a bad thing.  Now come in and have a seat."

Kevin told him, "Take your time, Ken.  I've got plenty of paperwork to catch up on.  Just let me know when you're ready to leave."

Ken went in, shut the door, and sat down with a heavy sigh. The doctor asked, "Now what is it you wish to discuss?"

Ken lowered his head for a moment to collect his thoughts, and taking a deep breath he delved right in.

"Doc, it's Brad.  Somethin's goin on with him, but he keeps sayin' he's okay.  He's not sleepin' well, and he's havin' nightmares.  Every time I try `ta talk to him, he says he doesn't remember what they're about.

"He's been havin' these cold spells where he shivers, and then other times his body just starts tremblin' but he's not cold.  Sometimes I'll catch him standin' still starin' at nothin', and when I ask him what's goin' on, he tries to hide it and act like everythin's okay."  

Once Ken started talking everything came out in a rush.  

"Doc, he's pullin' away from me.  I can feel it.  It hurts like hell, and nothin' I do seems `ta make a difference."  

Ken rubbed a hand roughly over his face in frustration, and his eyes were red and bright with unshed tears.

There was a short pause where the doctor observed Ken's expression and body language.  

"Kenneth, why did you wait to talk to me about this?"

"Because Brad made me promise not to.  I've tried talkin' with him, but he insists everythin' is fine and said he didn't want `ta bother you."

The doctor looked at Ken with a raised eyebrow, and Ken felt like a little kid in the principal's office being brought to task.  

"Kenneth, I am sorry to ask, but it is important.  How are you and Bradford doing in bed since this started?"

"Well, at first everythin' was normal... hell, better than normal.  With that new bondin' trick sex with Brad has been amazin'.  But this last week has been... well... strange.  It's hard `ta describe.  On one hand he seems `ta be pullin' away emotionally, but on the other hand, when we're makin' love he almost seems desperate.  The other night he was holdin' on `ta me like his life depended on it, but when we aren't makin' love, I feel like he's afraid for me `ta touch him."

The doctor's voice was full of concern as he sat back and asked, "And how are you doing with all of this Kenneth?"

"I'm holdin' myself together for now.  I'm tryin' `ta do everythin' I can around the house and give him some alone time to sleep in since he's been so tired, but I'm pretty much doin' everythin' by myself.  I'm scared for him, kinda pissed at him, and hurt.  I don't understand what's happenin' or why he's actin' like he is.  It hurts like hell that he's shuttin' me out and not lettin' me help him.  And `ta top it all off after seein' Bry and Lane, I feel like I'm neglectin' the guys."

The doctor got up from behind his desk and moved around to sit in the chair beside Ken.  He rested a hand on Ken's shoulder, giving him a tight squeeze.  

"I know it hurts, son, but based on what you have told me I do not think Bradford is himself right now."

Ken's brow furrowed, and he looked intently at the doc.

"Wait doc, do you know what's goin' on with him?"

"I am not entirely sure, no, but I have some suspicions, and I was dreading something like this might happen.  I have been waiting, and hoping, that my fears would prove fruitless."

"Spill it, doc!"

With a heavy sigh the doctor leaned back and looked long and hard at Ken, staring into his eyes as if looking for something, and when he didn't find it his suspicions were confirmed.

"Kenneth, how much do you remember of your abduction and what you experienced up to the night we rescued you?"

"Doc, we've gone over this, what does that have `ta do with Brad?"

"Please Kenneth, it is pertinent to the situation.  Answer the question."

"Well... I haven't thought about it much to be honest.  I don't want `ta remember.  I... well..."

Ken frowned, looking confused.  He didn't care to remember that horrible time, but now that he tried he could barely recall any of it other than the fact it occurred.  Everything seemed hazy and detached, mostly bits and pieces and the worst parts were missing altogether, leaving gaps in his memories.

Ken's eyes went wide.  

"Doc! I don't remember much at all!"

The doctor nodded and said, "I thought that might be the case."

"What's goin' on?  Why can't I remember!?"

"There are many possibilities Kenneth, but two seem the most prominent.  One, you suffered substantial mental and physical trauma and to protect yourself, your unconscious Mind has sealed off the experience and made it unavailable to your conscious Mind.  It is a known type of self-induced amnesia, a defense mechanism many people employ for self-survival.  The other possibility is that the memories are no longer there, which leaves us the questions of where they are, who or what removed them, and how.

"I designed you to be resilient Kenneth, both mentally and physically, but the type of torture you experienced, made possible because of your superior physiology, was beyond human imagining.  I was terrified that by the time we rescued you your Mind would be broken beyond repair.  Yet here you sit in full mental and physical health mere weeks after an experience that should have left you dead, or at the very least, insane.

"My boy, you and your Brothers have exceeded my wildest expectations, but even your recovery is too much for me to take credit for.  You are still human, even if you are the pinnacle of human potential.  By all accounts, you should not be sitting here looking at me."

Ken wasn't sure how to react.  What do you say when someone tells you that you should be dead?  

Brad, what the fuck have you done?!

"While you were still in an induced coma the second day after we rescued you, we found Bradford in your room sleeping on top of you.  He was also in an induced coma and yet he managed to disengage himself from my equipment and go into your room and climb into your bed.  The next morning when we found the two of you, the parts of your bodies that were touching seemed outwardly healed.

"I still do not know precisely what Bradford did or how, but he should not have been able to move, let alone accomplish what he did.  At first, I thought it might have been some physiological reaction between your body chemistry and his, however only you were affected.  Whatever he managed to do took its toll on him, and I was as worried about losing him as I was you for a time.

"When your heart stopped briefly during the rescue, Bradford almost died as well when the connection between you severed.  I believe Bradford discovered a way to re-engage your bond, but in a non-reciprocal manner.  There is still much I do not know or understand about what happened that night, and I am guessing at much of this, but so far the results support my hypothesis."

"So, what are you sayin', doc?  What did he do `ta me?"

"I think he saved not only your life, but your Mind.  The question is, at what cost to himself?"

Ken was shocked.  He sat back in the chair with a stunned look on his face.  What had Brad done to him?  No, not to him... for him.  It was so humbling... and infuriating!   As his emotions caused by the doctor words boiled to the surface, Ken felt like he was going to throw up.  The only thing he could think of was he was going to lose Brad, and it was because of him.

The doctor had known Ken for nearly twenty years and knew the thought processes going through his Mind.  

"Doc..."

"No Kenneth! You are NOT responsible for this!  Do not go there, son.  Bradford did this of his own volition.  He did it because he loves you.  You would do the same for him so do not blame him either.  Accept the fact of what he has done and let us find a way to help him."

Ken took a deep breath trying to get himself under control.  His only objective for the time being needed to be Brad and helping him.

"Alright, doc.  What do we do for starters?"

"I need to examine him, but it will take time to prepare and recalibrate some of the equipment.   You and Kevin return to the office, and then you and Bradford come back here after dinner.  You can stop and pick up food for me on your way back.  It will be a long night.  You and Bradford are excused from work until further notice.  I will let everyone know."

"Doc, can you wait to send that text until after we get back here tonight?"

"Certainly."

"Doc, what do I tell Kevin and the rest of the guys?"

"Nothing, yet.  They must be told but let me worry about that.  You are not neglecting them Kenneth, and do not feel as though you are. You are one man, but as strong as your shoulders are you cannot carry the weight of everything on your own."

Kevin was still doing paperwork when Ken finished with the doc and went to his desk.  Kevin could see Ken was upset but knew his buddy would talk when he was ready.  Kevin was Ken's oldest friend from the Navy, and they knew each other as well as any two men possibly could.

Ken asked him, "Ready to go?"

"Yeah, man.  Let's head out."

Kevin put an arm around Ken's shoulders as they walked to the car.  It was a gesture of comfort Ken appreciated, and it reminded him he wasn't alone in whatever he faced.  His Brothers would always be with him and have his back, just as he would always have theirs.

The drive to the office was quiet.  Kevin kept stealing glances at Ken with a worried look on his face.  Ken was his Captain and still their unofficial leader aside from being one of his best friends.  It unsettled Kevin to see Ken so troubled, and he wasn't sure what he could do to help.

<><><>

Kevin dropped Ken off at the entrance to their building and picked up Bill who was waiting at the door.  Ken and Bill exchanged fist bumps as they passed and then Ken took the stairs from the lobby up to the fifth floor. When he entered their suite Sally was on the phone, so he waved to her as he walked by.

Ken made his way to the office he and Brad shared and found Brad sitting behind his desk facing the window, staring at nothing.

Ken's greeting was subdued, "Hey B, you ready to head out?"

Brad spun his chair around slowly.  His eyes had a vacant, faraway look to them as if he was somewhere else.  Brad blinked and his eyes focused on Ken but with a strange look entirely out of character.  It wasn't lust... it was something else Ken couldn't identify.  If he didn't know better, he would say it was hunger.

Brad stood up aggressively and grabbed Ken by his tie, pushing him back into his chair.  He kicked the door shut with his foot and locked it with an audible `click.'

"B, look man it's been a long day, and I..."

Brad held his finger up to his lips.

"Shhhh..."

Brad knelt between Ken's thighs and started running his hands up and down Ken's legs and over his crotch.

"B, what the fuck?  We don't have time for this."

Brad unzipped Ken's pants and boldly stuck his hand through the opening to fondle him.  Usually, Ken would be hard in seconds at Brad's touch but not after everything he learned.  Brad tried desperately to get Ken hard for a few minutes, stroking and sucking, but Ken sat in the chair with a stony look on his face and remained soft.  When Brad realized his efforts weren't getting any reaction from Ken, he seemed to become desperate and tried even harder.

Ken finally said, "Look, B just give it up.  I'm tired and the magic ain't happenin'.   I'm sorry."

Brad's voice sounded sad, and he quietly said, "Not as sorry as I am."

Brad unlocked the door and walked out.   Ken stuffed himself back in his pants, zipped up, and walked to the lobby where Brad was waiting for him.

The two men walked to the car in awkward silence.  Brad usually drove, but Ken jumped into the driver's seat before he had a chance to get in.

Ken noticed the side glances Brad gave him as soon as he realized they weren't going home.

"Where are we going?"  

"We need `ta pick up some dinner for the doc and swing by the Lab `ta get a few things.  I say we get somethin' for us too.  I don't feel like cookin' tonight."

Brad didn't say anything and stared out the window.

They swung through the drive-in at Long John Silver's for the doctor, and Ken called PF Chang's, ordering takeout for himself and Brad.  It was close to the Lab so they swung by, picked up their food, and arrived at the Lab a short time later.

Brad knew something was up, but Ken was being careful and kept an eye on him.  He didn't have a chance to run.  Besides, Ken could catch him in a heartbeat.  There was no way Brad could overpower or outrun him.

The doctor ate in his office and left Brad and Ken in the kitchen by themselves to eat their dinner.  Instead of sitting at a table they both leaned against the counter.  Ken had taken his tie off, undone the top few buttons of his shirt, and rolled up his sleeves.  

Brad glanced at him, but Ken kept his eyes downcast, focused on eating.  Brad looked at the open collar of Ken's shirt, at his muscular neck.  He watched Ken's jaw and temples move as he chewed his food.  He noted how the muscles in Ken's forearm twitched under his skin as he used his chopsticks to eat.  The healthy glow of darkly tanned skin, the hair on his arms, his face in profile... to Brad, Ken looked as sexy and handsome as ever.  He wanted to remember the perfect features of the perfect man he loved more than anything in the world.

Ken, remembering the look Brad had on his face earlier, couldn't make eye contact with him.  Focused on his food, Ken literally jabbed the chopsticks into his dinner.

Brad finally broke their awkward silence and said, "If you aren't careful, you're going to poke a hole through that box and make a mess."

Ken didn't respond and continued chewing angrily.

Brad continued staring at Ken, going over every detail of his handsome face.   Brad knew it was only a matter of time before his emotions would begin to twist, and his eyes turned glassy.

"God, Ken I'm going to miss you so much."  

Too late, Brad realized he had said his words aloud.  They were barely a whisper, but to Ken's enhanced hearing they were perfectly clear.  Ken froze and turned white as a sheet.  His stomach clenched and he felt like someone punched him in his gut.  

He looked at Brad with a steely glint in his eyes said, "Look B.  I'm gonna say this once and only once.  I don't know what the fuck you've done but you aren't goin' anywhere and neither am I!"  

Ken moved in front of Brad poking him hard in the chest with each word, pushing him back until Brad nearly fell over backward across the counter.  As he finished, with a choked cry, Ken lost it and fell to his knees, grabbing Brad around the waist and pressing his face against Brad's stomach.  He held on tight, sobbing helplessly, while Brad had an almost terrified look on his face.

Brad's hands tentatively touched Ken's head, running his fingers through his short hair.  It started as a comforting, loving gesture, but Brad's hands quickly started trembling and he frantically tried to push Ken away, like his touch was physically painful.  

Brad started breathing heavy and could barely talk but Ken heard him mumble, "Don't touch me!  I can't handle it!"

Ken let go of Brad and slumped on the floor with his back against the cabinets.  He held his head in his hands and continued quietly sobbing.

The doctor witnessed most of their exchange, his heart breaking for the two young men he loved as if they were his flesh and blood sons.

The doctor's voice was quiet but firm, "Bradford, come with me.  Kenneth, come in when you are ready, son."

The doctor led Brad into one of the exam rooms.  

"Please strip down to your underwear and get on the bed."

Like a zombie, Brad followed the doctor's request, his movements mechanical and lifeless.  As Brad laid down, the doctor noted his eyes were bloodshot and bright with unshed tears.

The doctor proceeded to give him a general physical.  Brad's pupils were non-responsive, his blood pressure low, he showed evidence of mild hypoxia, and he was slightly hypothermic.   The doctor drew some blood, and as he was leaving to put the vials in the centrifuge, Ken walked into the room now wearing jeans and a t-shirt.  His eyes were red and puffy, and he looked pale.

Brad shied away from Ken when he entered the room, so Ken stayed by the door.  Brad's voice was weak, but he looked at Ken and said, "You need to leave."

Ken's voice sounded hoarse as he responded, "I love you B, no matter what.  Surely after all this time you know that, right?"

Ken left the room to find the doctor.

"He told me `ta leave, doc.  He doesn't want me in the room."

"Kenneth, I know this is painful.   I am so sorry my boy, for both of you.   If you wish, you can observe on the monitor at your desk.  Bradford does not know I have turned on the camera.  I think you should watch if you can bring yourself to do it."

The doctor went back to the room where Brad was waiting.

"Now Bradford, while I am waiting for those tests to run you are going to tell me, from the beginning, what is going on.  If I feel you are being dishonest with me in the slightest, I will resort to drastic and unpleasant means."

Brad seldom heard the doctor use such a serious tone and he noted the steely look in his eyes that plainly said he was not joking.

"Just keep Ken out of the room, doc, or I won't be able to do this."

"You know, Bradford, that you are breaking his heart? How can you not see what you are doing to him?"

"At least he'll be alive.  He's such a great man.  He's my best friend.  I didn't think it was possible to love someone so much until I met him."  

Brad sniffed loudly while he was talking, his eyes swimming with tears.

"You say you love him and yet you are doing this to him.  Bradford, you are one of the brightest men I know, how can you say this when you know it does not make sense?"

"Are you familiar with Superman, doc?  He gets his power from the yellow sun and kryptonite is his weakness? Well, imagine Ken is both of those things to me right now.  He's keeping me alive and killing me at the same time."

"Explain yourself."

"You see doc, when Ken and I were connected and I knew what they were doing to him, I was desperate to save him.  You said there might be consequences from the bond between us staying up so long.  You were right.  I'm still not sure, but I think the connection left an imprint on my Mind because it was active so long.

"When you suppressed that part of me... God, I never felt so alone!  It was more than I could take.  It sounds silly to talk about it, but the intensity was soul-crushing.  I think we love more intensely than ordinary people because of all the changes we've been through.  I also think, because of that, we feel the opposite more too.  When Ken's presence left me, I wanted to die.  I couldn't imagine living without him.  You know the human brain perceives time differently when it's asleep.  While I was unconscious for only a few minutes, it seemed like days to me and I was on the verge of losing my Mind.

"I've never been so desperate.  So, my unconscious Mind discovered a way to reconnect me with Ken.  By the time I figured out how to do that only shreds of Ken's Mind were left. What I connected to was almost unrecognizable as the man I love.  The last shred of his sanity was begging for Kevin to kill him to stop the pain.

"I didn't know how else to save him, doc.  I took all that pain, all the broken pieces, his death wish, and took it away from him, into me.  I know what a remarkable man Ken is, and I knew he would survive the physical torture if his body had a chance to do what you designed it to do.

"The problem now is that all of that is in me and it wants out.  It wants to get back to Ken and destroy him.  It's relentlessly pushing and trying to find a way out through the connection I have with him.   I'm holding it back, but it's killing me, but I'll be damned if I'm going to let it out.  I'm going to die with it in me so Ken can live.

"When he touches me this thing in me can feel him, and it starts clawing like a wild animal inside my Mind.  That's why I can't have him around me right now.  But at the same time, the boost I get from Ken when we make love makes me stronger.  It feeds off my love of him, and I know how strong that love is so I have to keep him away, or it will punch through before I can stop it."

The doctor was silent for a few minutes as he took in Brad's words, using his vast knowledge and intellect to try and formulate a solution.  He was stunned at Brad's bravery and foolishness and at what he managed to accomplish.  The part of him that created this circumstance was supposed to be dormant for years to come.  With proper training the current situation never would have happened.  How could events advance so quickly and coincidentally?  First Ken discovering the Bonding, now Bradford, and Lane making his discovery... the doctor would have to consider everything carefully and devise a new strategy moving forward, assuming he could find a way to save Brad.  

Ah, Albrecht, I miss you more than ever.  

Ken shouting from the other room shook the doctor out of his thoughts.

"Doc!"

The doctor reached over and squeezed Brad's arm.  

"You were foolish to try and handle this alone, my boy.  I am not saying I know what to do, but I would have had more time to work on a solution if you had confided in me earlier."

"In my defense doc, early on I wasn't in complete control, and it fought me tooth and nail to not let anyone know what was happening.  I'm sorry."

"I understand, my boy.  Be still, and I will be right back."  

With that, he went to find the reason for Ken's outburst.

"Did you hear?"

"Yeah doc, I heard everythin'!  That stupid son of a bitch is killin' himself `ta save me!"

Ken choked up as he spoke and he was shaking badly, and he held something in his hand the doctor couldn't make it out.

"I need to check the test results.  What were yelling about?"

Ken lowered his head sheepishly.  

"Well... I heard what he was sayin' about the sun and kryptonite, and I had an idea.  Uh... well, I figure I can give him what he needs without touchin' him."  

Ken set a cup on the counter.   

"Is that..."

Ken blushed a deeper shade of red, nodding his head.  

"Yeah."  

It was a sample cup full of Ken's semen.

"Kenneth, that is brilliant."

"I was thinkin' you could start with this, but maybe make a serum or sumthin' that would make it stronger and last longer."

"Kenneth, that is also brilliant.  Perhaps I should let you take over my duties?  Such a simple solution.  No pun intended, of course."

Ken gave the doc a sheepish grin and said, "Well there's plenty more where that came from, so just let me know..."

The doctor reached over and picked up the largest empty beaker within reach and shoved it into Ken's hands.  

"Go get to work, my boy.  Remember to drink plenty of liquids, so you don't dehydrate yourself."

The doctor filled a syringe with the contents of the cup and hurried back to Brad's bedside.

"Bradford this is a bit unorthodox, but I see no reason why it will not work.  Please roll over."  

Brad saw the syringe and practically shouted, "No!  Your suppression serum won't work on this, and I can't take any sedatives.  Weren't you listening to me?!"

"Bradford calm down, this is neither.  If anything, I would consider this a stimulant."  

He jabbed the needle into Brad's butt and pressed the plunger, and Brad's eyes widened in surprise.  

"Doc, what the hell was that?"

"It is helping?"

"Yes!  I can already feel the pressure letting up."

"You can thank Kenneth.  This was entirely his idea."

The glazed look in Brad's eyes faded and he let out a sigh of relief.  His body visibly relaxed as Ken's DNA absorbed into his tissues, and the doctor saw the tension leave his body with the boost in strength he received from the injection.  Brad fell back on the bed, closed his eyes and in seconds fell asleep.  

<><><>

When Brad woke the next morning the first thing he saw was a tired looking Ken sitting in a chair by his bedside, watching him.  His eyes were red, his hair disheveled, he had a cowlick on the top of his head, and he needed to shave.  To Brad, he looked as handsome as ever.

Brad's initial reaction was to try and move away, but he was groggy and still weak.

"B... It's okay.  The doc gave you another injection an hour ago.  You didn't even wake up."

Brad couldn't make eye contact with Ken and stared at his feet instead.

Ken spent all night thinking about everything Brad said to the doctor.  He still didn't know what to say but knew he had to say something.  

"B... Before I say anythin' else, I want `ta tell you again how much you mean ta' me. You don't have `ta look at me, but I'm gonna have my say, and you aren't budgin' from that bed `til I'm done."

Ken fought his emotions and held back his tears so he could tell Brad what he needed to say.

"First off, I can't imagine bein' in this world without you.  I want you `ta know I understand what you did and why you did it.  I wish I could stay mad at you but I know I would've made the same decision, but that doesn't mean it doesn't hurt like hell.  When you won't look at me, and I know my touch causes you pain... It hurts me too.  We're in this together though, and with the doc's help we'll figure a way out."

Brad couldn't bring himself to look at Ken.  It took all his willpower to sit still and not rush over and grab Ken and hold him tight. Silent tears fell down Brad's face while Ken spoke and his shoulders shook with quiet sobs.  Brad sat up, pulling his knees up to his chest and put his head down as he cried.

Ken watched Brad curl up on the bed.  The effort not to move over and take Brad into his arms was almost more than he could bear.  Ken breathed hard and was shaking the same as Brad.

"God, B, bein' apart like this is killin' both of us.  Don't you know there isn't anythin' we can't handle if we're together? I can't stand sittin' here and watchin' you suffer `cause `a me."

Brad's shoulders slumped, and he quietly said "I wish I were as strong as you Ken.  I've never been as strong as you."

Ken was stunned and blurted out, "What the fuck are you talkin' about?  You're the strongest person I know!  My God man, how can you say that?  You have no idea, do you?  For someone so smart you can sure be a dumbass sometimes!"

There was a short pause while each of them thought about what the other said, and Ken broke the silence first.  He hoped his plan worked.

"Okay Brad, here it is.  The reason we've made it all these years is that we complement each other.  For instance, someone has to be the handsome one, so that's obviously me..."

Brad's head snapped up, and he instinctively replied, "Oh Fuck, No! No way!  Not with those Dumbo ears of yours!"

Brad stopped when he realized what Ken had done.  The brief grin on his face faded, and he mumbled, "Douche" under his breath.

Ken had a hint of a smile on his face, but his heart leapt in his chest when he saw Brad smile, even for a second.  It was the sign he needed that the situation wasn't a lost cause and that Brad had a lot more in him than he realized.

"Okay B, seriously.  We do complement each other, and we've always been there for each other through good times and bad.  This time isn't any different.  It's probably the worst fuckin' situation we've ever been in, hands down, but still.  We've learned `ta lean on each other, and right now you need `ta lean on me.  I don't care how fuckin' hard you have `ta lean on me, you keep pushin' until I say uncle or you break my back.  I know I can't touch you, but I can deal with that as long as I know you're fightin' for us.  If you don't give up, we can figure out a way `ta win this. Do you hear me?"

A glimmer of hope sparked in Brad.  Being so close to Ken was still hard as hell.  The beast inside him clawed and pushed, trying to break out and destroy Ken, but his renewed hope gave Brad the strength to drive it back down.

Brad made eye contact with Ken and quietly said "Okay."

"You promise?"

"Yeah, I promise."

"Damn!  That means I'm gonna have `ta run to the drugstore."

"Why?"

"I need to stock up on lube.  Do you know how many times I'm gonna have to jack off to keep you goin'?"

"You know you love it or you wouldn't be bragging about it."

"Hey, B?

"Yeah?"

"Isn't this a lot better than both of us cryin' like babies?"

Brad had a small smile on his face and said, "Yeah.  Hey, Ken?"

"Yeah?"

"Come here a sec."

Ken moved over to the bed.  Brad sat up and wrapped his legs around Ken's waist.  He lowered his forehead, pressing it against the upper part of Ken's warm solid chest and took a deep breath, inhaling Ken's musky scent.

"Fuck this is going to hurt."  

Reaching up, Brad took Ken's face in his hands, feeling his strength, and brought their lips together.  The kiss was short but incredibly intense, and they were both breathing hard when Brad pulled away.  Brad reached his hands around Ken and pulled them together into a tight hug.  He squeezed as hard as he could and felt Ken's arms wrap around him, pressing Brad's head more firmly against his chest.  Ken felt Brad's warm breath through his t-shirt.  They were both hard.

They both said "I love you" at the same time, which caused them to chuckle.

Ken leaned down and kissed the top of Brad's head.  He saw the strain on Brad's face and knew how much the display of affection cost him, so he moved away.  

"B, I'm sorry, but I need `ta get outta here for a minute and cool off, or I'm gonna end up rippin' your clothes off."

"Yeah, we need to cool off.  I love you, but that hurt.  I'm not sure I can do that again anytime soon."

"Hey, are you hungry?"

"Yeah, I'm starving."

"Alright, I'll be back in a bit."

Brad watched Ken as he turned and headed out; his blue jeans hugging his marbled ass and his t-shirt snug against his big frame.  

I promise I'll hold out as long as I can, Ken.  I'll give everything I have for you.  For us.  

However, deep down Brad already had an idea of what was happening to his body and didn't know how much time he had left.

 Ken walked to his Explorer, but instead of getting in he collapsed on the ground with his back against the front tire.  Events of the previous night and the morning repeated in his Mind, and the front he put on for Brad shattered.  He crossed his arms over his knees, put his head down, and fell apart.  He had to get the worst of his emotions out of his system, and he couldn't do that in front of Brad.  He had to stay strong and be the rock. He knew Brad wasn't out of the woods by a long shot, but at least now Ken felt like they had a fighting chance.  

Ken heard a car pulling into the parking lot.  Bryan and Lane pulled up and got out.

It took Lane a second to realize Ken's condition, and he said, "Hey Ken... fuck bro! What's wrong?"  

Ken was a wreck, his face wet with tears, unshaven, and his eyes bloodshot.  Lane and Bryan both rushed over to him, their faces masks of concern.  

Ken had to clear his throat a few times before he could talk and his voice sounded rough.

"Hey, guys... sorry, I wasn't expectin' anybody `ta pull up. I was just gettin' some shit outta my system.  Brad's not doin' so good."

Ken's head dropped, and the tears started again.  Bryan grabbed Ken and pulled him into a tight bear hug, whispering, "Take as long as you need to get it out, Ken.  We're here, Brother."  

Lane joined the hug from the other side, and the two big men sandwiched Ken between them, holding him until he stopped crying.  

Once Ken calmed down and could talk, Lane asked him, "Okay Ken, we know something's up.  The doc has been tight-lipped, but it's obvious to all of us that there's some leftover shit going on."

Bryan put a hand up and interrupted Lane.

"Where were you going?"

"I was headin' out to get some food for me'n Brad and the doc."

"Get your ass in the car and tell us what you can on the way.  We want to know everything you can tell us about what's up so we can help."

On the drive Ken filled his buddies in on everything, leaving nothing out.  He wasn't sure the doctor wanted anyone else knowing what was going on, but Ken badly needed to talk to someone who could relate to what he was going through or at least understand how he felt.

When he finished, Ken noticed a look pass between Bryan and Lane, and he asked, "Is there somethin' else goin' on?  Fuck, I don't know how much more I can take."

Lane piped in quickly, "No, Ken! It's nothing like that.  Look, the doc didn't want us talking about this quite yet either but with everything you just told us... Well fuck, I don't know, I think you should know too."

"Know what?"

"Well, me and Bry, we tried that trick you and Brad figured out, and it's been fucking awesome just like you said."  

Bryan's grin expressed just how awesome it was.

Lane continued, "But in the last few weeks something else has happened.  I started having this dream after me and Bry would finish making out.  You know how much into music I am, right?  Well, in this dream I'm working on a song, but when I wake up, I can't remember the words or the music.  But here's where it gets weird.  While I'm working on the song, I'm sitting on a rock outside in the sunshine.  I don't know where it is, but it's beautiful and peaceful. There's this big river flowing by, and Brad's on the other side looking like he wants to get across but can't.  Bry is there too and all the guys except you and the doc.  It's like we're camping.  Everyone's talking, but no one except me sees Brad.   I'm feeling frustrated with the words to the song and all of the sudden I hear this horrible scream from the woods across the water that sounds like you. That's when I wake up every time.

"We were on our way in to talk to the doc more about this when we ran into you."

"So, what does he think about it?"

"He thinks it's another ability manifesting.  He said it might be precognitive, whatever the fuck that means.  The thing is, outside the dream, I feel like I need to finish that song and it's driving me nuts."

In between their conversation, they stopped at PF Chang's and everybody got food to go, and they hit Long John Silver's for the doc on the way back.

When they arrived at the Lab as they were getting out of the car Ken gave Bryan and Lane a big, heartfelt hug.  

"Thanks, guys.  I feel better talkin' about this shit with someone who can relate.  I love the doc, but sometimes I'm not sure he gets everythin' on the emotional side."

Lane put an arm around Ken's shoulder and squeezed hard.  

"Look here Ken, you and Brad are family.  You know you don't have to go through any of this shit by yourself.  I know you want to be all macho and studly like you don't need anybody's help but that's bullshit.  Lean on us as much as you need too.  We mean that.  That goes for Brad too, that dumb fucker.  If you don't, we'll have to kick both your sorry, ugly asses.  You got that?"

Ken laughed and shook his head at the irony of Lane's words.  

Lane asked him, "What's so funny?"

"That's pretty much what I said to Brad before we left."

Lane laughed, saying, "See!? You need to listen to your own bullshit!"

Ken felt much better after his outing with Bryan and Lane.  Lesson learned.

<><><>

Bryan and Lane spoke with the doctor, but Ken wasn't privy to their conversation.  They stopped to see Brad briefly before leaving and soundly berated him for being a dumbass while giving him a big hug.  Brad got the same speech as Ken, and they made both Ken and Brad promise, again, to let them know how they could help, no matter what it might be.

Ken was able to spend more time with Brad after that.  They maintained a physical distance but were able to talk without the tension.   The doctor managed to increase the potency of Brad's injections, so Ken didn't have to jerk off quite so frequently.  Ken could always tell when Brad needed another shot and joked that Brad was hooked and Ken was now his `cum dealer.'

The next day the doctor called Ken into his office.  He shut the door after Ken came in and had a serious look on his face. Ken noticed his expression and braced himself for bad news.

"Kenneth, I have collected enough data to form a prognosis.  I will continue to run tests in case there are any changes, but right now it looks as if Bradford's organs are shutting down.  Whatever this thing inside of him is, it is slowly killing his body."

"Doc, how can that be?  It's not even real."

"There, my boy, I think you are wrong.  We have stepped beyond science here. What Bradford accomplished he should not be able to do, at least not yet.  It was not just the memories of the pain he took from you.  He took the part of your Soul that was damaged beyond repair into himself.  That piece of you is the creature, and I am afraid it is real and very much alive.  It has intellect, of that I am now certain.  We have thwarted it temporarily, but it has discovered a way around us.  It is killing Bradford because it wishes to return to you, and it hopes we will not allow Bradford to sacrifice himself.  In essence, it is holding him hostage."

Ken had a knot in his stomach, struggling to keep his voice steady as he asked, "How long?"

"It is not exact, perhaps another few weeks at best.  I can partially counter the effects and slow it down, but at this point the end result is inevitable.  I am sorry."  

Ken felt sick to his stomach at the doctor's words.

"I don't want to tell him, doc.  He has enough on his plate and doesn't need this."

"As you wish.  I think Bradford already suspects but I will not bring it up if he does not.  I am not giving up Kenneth, please know this, and there are other forces at play that are still unknown.  Again, I am faced with what appears to be a coincidence, and I feel that Lane, Bryan, and perhaps the others still have a role to play I cannot yet see."

<><><>

Brad was beyond tired, his Soul exhausted from the constant battle to keep the beast caged inside him.   He wished Ken was with him but at the same time was glad he wasn't; kryptonite and yellow sun.  

Brad drifted off to sleep...

<>

... and found himself standing on the bank of the River.  It was beautiful there.  Brad had wonderful memories of that place from his childhood.  It was one of the few memories he had or cared to remember from the time in his life before his mother died.  The bubbling sound of the water was soothing.

Within seconds of his arrival the beast screamed, and Brad walked down the narrow path from the beach that led to its prison.  Its cage was an old fort Brad and a friend built when they were kids.  The rickety structure rattled as the beast fought to get out and some of the boards were starting to come loose, but it held.  The strength and happiness of his memory were still too strong for it.

Brad picked up a few dead branches from the ground nearby and shored up the little fort as best he could.  Bloody fingers poked through knot holes in some of the boards trying to get a grip and break out.  Moving closer, Brad attempted to get a better look at the creature when suddenly a piercing green eye appeared, startling him.  He jumped back in surprise, losing his balance and almost falling over.

As the creature grew stronger in that place, Brad became weaker in the Physical Realm.  It was changing, evolving, and taking on more aspects of Ken from the night of his rescue.  It had all the broken bones, the flayed and burned skin, and dark, wet, slick blood covering its tortured body.  Brad knew it wasn't Ken; not his Ken, but a part of Ken he needed to keep trapped.  If Brad died before the creature escaped then it would die with him and be gone forever and unable to hurt to Ken.

On his way back to the beach Brad heard music.  It was faint but sounded like someone playing a guitar.  He made it back to the beach and looked around.  Across the river a man sat on a large rock with a guitar in his lap.  The song was hauntingly beautiful, and Brad stopped to listen.  Strangely, the music tugged at his Mind, and he felt stronger.

The man wasn't alone.  A whole group of people were on the far bank camping.  Brad's blood ran cold when he saw Ken walk out from the tree line and stop at the water's edge.  Brad didn't understand why he didn't recognize the others at first, but as soon as Ken stepped out their identities became clear to him.  All the guys were all there now; Kevin and Bill, Patrick and Darren, Rick and Loy, Bryan and Lane, and Ken.  It was important they were all there.  He didn't know or understand how he knew that, but he did.

It was Lane sitting on the rock playing his guitar.  He was a great musician and always played and sang for them when they had pool parties at the house.  Brad smiled fondly, remembering the good times with Ken and their buddies.  In the winter when the pool was covered, they used a big fire pit and cooked out together while Lane played for them.  Bryan occasionally played the bongos and even sang if he had time to practice beforehand.   Bryan's deep baritone complemented Lane's smooth tenor nicely.

Lane seemed to be the only one who saw Brad, and he stood up and waved.  Snapping back to himself Brad moved to the edge of the water and frantically yelled at them.  They had to get Ken away from the river or all Brad's efforts would be for nothing and Ken would die!

The creature screamed again, a long howl filled with rage and frustration.  It sensed Ken nearby and wanted to break free and devour him.  Brad turned and rushed back down the trail towards the fort...

<>

... and jerked awake.  Brad sat up in bed trembling and sweating.  He wasn't sure what time it was, but the lights were out.  Ken slept in a chair by the door and must have sensed his motion or heard the sheets move because he immediately sat up.

His voice sounded groggy when he asked "Hey B... you alright?  Another nightmare?"

Ken was shocked at how bad Brad looked.  Earlier that night he looked tired but now he looked like death warmed over.

Concern filled Ken's voice as he asked, "Do you need me `ta get the doc?"

Brad's eyes were wide with panic and his chest heaved.  

"Ken! Hurry! I need a shot now!  No time to get the doc."  

He sounded desperate and exhausted, and his body shook violently.  The creature clawed at his Mind, sensing his weakness, pushing relentlessly against his Will and trying to break free of the memory that kept it imprisoned.

A small glass refrigerator by the door contained syringes the doc prepared ahead of time.  Ken opened the door and grabbed one.  Brad was already leaning on his side with his shorts pulled down waiting for the shot.  Ken jabbed the needle into Brad's butt, pushed down the plunger, and backed off quickly.

After a few seconds, Brad's breathing slowed and his trembling subsided.

Ken tentatively asked, "Better?"

"Yeah."  

Brad leaned over, turned on the bed lamp, and fell back on the pillows with his eyes closed, completely drained.  He didn't see the tears or the look of desperation on Ken's face.

<><><>

Ken woke before Brad.  The lamp was still on, and he stood and moved to Brad's beside.  Brad looked tired but not nearly as bad as a few hours ago.   The nightmare took its toll on him, but after the last shot he seemed a little better.

Ken heard the Lab door open and quietly left the room so he wouldn't disturb Brad.  It was Kevin and Bill arriving with breakfast.  Ken knew he looked rough and probably smelled but didn't care.

As soon Kevin saw Ken he said, "Come here, buddy" and pulled him into a tight hug.

Bill said, "Bry and Lane called everyone together at the office last night and filled us in.  Everybody knew something was up, but we had no idea how serious it was.  Fuck man, we're sorry. How's Brad this morning?"

"He's asleep right now.   We had a close call in the middle of the night.  If I hadn't been sleepin' in the chair things might've gone south quick.  I'm gonna talk `ta the doc when he wakes up, but I don't think we can leave him alone anymore."

Bill moved behind Ken and pushed him down onto one of the Lab stools and started rubbing his shoulders.

"I'm sorry to break the news to you, but you look like shit.  You need to take better care of yourself if you're going to be of any use to Brad."

No one heard the doctor until he said, "You are quite right William.  And I agree Kenneth, Bradford should not be left alone any longer.  I will prepare a schedule and email it out to everyone.

"Lane and Bryan are on their way here to take you home for a few hours.  No argument, my boy.  Kevin, you and William can start now and stay with Bradford through lunch."

Lane and Bryan showed up and took Ken back to his house.  Ken gathered some clothes but asked if they would mind taking him back to their place.

"This place doesn't seem like home without Brad.  It's too empty and quiet."

Bryan and Lane only lived about fifteen minutes away.  Bryan was quite the gardener.  The flower beds were in full bloom, and his vegetable and herb garden looked incredible.  Ken stood, staring into the backyard through the sliding glass doors with tears slowly falling down his face.  

Thoughts of how happy Bryan and Lane were, and how happy he and Brad had been all these years filled his Mind.  Now, everything was uncertain, and the thought of a life without Brad scared the hell out of him.  In a matter of days Brad would be dead unless they could figure something out and the doc was fresh out of ideas.

Lane watched Ken standing at their back door staring into the yard.  Ken was trying to stay strong but the situation was taking its toll on him, and his friends saw how physically and emotionally drained he was.  Lane motioned for Bryan to follow him out to the garage so they could have a private conversation.  He whispered his idea to Bryan, who didn't hesitate to nod `yes.'  Bryan leaned down and kissed Lane on the lips and then popped him on his ass as he turned to go back into the house.

Lane took Ken's hand, pulling him down the hallway and into the bathroom.  He started the hot water running in the huge bathtub and squirted something into the bath water.  Ken was in a fog and let Lane lead him around.  Lane untucked Ken's shirt and lifted it over his head.

"Ken, I don't know how to say this other than to be blunt."

Ken looked at his friend, his brow creased in curiosity.

"I know you're a stud, and you've been jerking off like a zillion times for Brad but that's not what you're used to.  How long has it been since you and Brad made out?"

"Honestly, I don't remember.  Weeks, I think."

"I'm not pushing this, but I know how highly sexed you are, just like Bry and the rest of the fat asses.  Your needs aren't being taken care of like you're used to.  So, I'm offering that to you if you want me to help you out.  Bryan is totally cool with it before you ask."

Ken sniffed and teared up again, this time out of love for his friends and what they were willing to do for him.

"Thanks, Lane.  You don't know how much I appreciate that, but right now it would feel like cheatin' on Brad.  It's not you, bro.  You are one seriously good lookin' man and such a good friend.  It would be way too easy `ta say `yes,' but if Brad's goin' without then I am too.  It sounds weird, but it's another way I'm tyrin' `ta support the sacrifice he's makin' for me."

"Okay. I respect that."

Lane grinned and added, "Honestly I was hoping you would say yes because I've had the hots for you for a long time.  The offer stands until Brad is better.  After that, it's back to both of us being off limits."

Ken laughed and said, "Okay.  I doubt I'll change my mind.  Just don't parade around naked in front of me or we both might be in trouble."

"You got it.  Alright, now that's out of the way, I'm taking over Brad's other duties while he's resting.  Strip and get into the water."

Ken took off the rest of his clothes and stepped into the hot water, now full of soapy bubbles.

"A bubble bath?  Really?"

"Don't be dissin' Mister Bubble.  He takes care of business."

Ken sank into the hot water and moaned as the heat surrounded and washed over his body.  

Lane took off his shirt so he wouldn't get it wet or soapy, grabbed a washcloth, and started washing Ken.  Lane was very thorough, and Ken enjoyed the sensation of someone else taking care of him.  Lane hummed a song under his breath while he used the washcloth to scrub Ken's body.  The song was unfamiliar but very soothing.

Once Ken was clean Lane rolled up a towel and laid it down as a headrest.

"Lean back and put your head on the towel and relax."

Lane knelt on the floor at the edge of the tub leaning over him, so when Ken opened his eyes he was staring upside down at Lane's big chest.  All of the guys had incredible physiques and Ken admired Lane's body.

Lane saw him looking and grinned.

"Quit peeping.  Close your eyes and relax."

The next thing Ken knew Lane smoothed hot shaving cream over his face and neck.  Lane pulled out a straight razor and flicked it back and forth on a razor strap hanging from the wall.  Ken hadn't had a hot shave in years, and it felt amazing.  Lane had a steaming hot towel ready to wipe the excess lather off his skin.  He leaned forward so Lane could get the back of his neck.

"Ok now for part two.  You have some serious bedhead going on.  You're way overdue for a haircut."  

Lane was a great barber and had Ken looking like his old self in no time.

"Alright let's get you dried off and come with me.  You can keep a towel on if you want, but I'm sure Bry would enjoy the show if you want to leave it here."  

Lane chuckled and said, "He's already jealous I've been handling the goods."

Lane took Ken into their bedroom which had the same massage chair Ken and Brad had in theirs.  Again, Lane was very thorough and spent a good hour going over Ken's body, working the stress out of his big muscled frame.  Lane hummed the same tune as he worked and with his calming voice and strong hands Ken was so relaxed he fell asleep shortly into the massage.

Once Lane finished he was horny as hell and dripping sweat.  He left quietly, trying not to wake Ken up, and ran down the hallway to get Bryan.

"Hey, Bry he passed out in the chair.  Can you help get him to bed?"

Bryan got off the couch where he had been reading the new issue of Organic Gardening on his tablet.  He got up and went down the hall to their bedroom.

Bryan saw Ken's big body on the massage chair and leaned over to whisper in his ear.  

"Just relax Ken. You're exhausted and need to take a nap, so I'm putting you in our bed."

Ken was like putty in Bryan's arms.  He was so exhausted he was like a little kid that never really wakes up when they are taken out of their car seat and put into bed.  Bryan moved Ken to their bed and lifted his head gently onto a pillow.  He pulled their comforter over to cover him up and shut the door to let him sleep.

When Bryan went back to the living room, he had a big grin on his face.  A very sweaty, very handsome Lane stood by the couch in just a towel that was tented out at full mast.   Their eyes flashed white as Bryan stripped off his shirt and pulled Lane's towel off.  They tried hard to be quiet over the next few hours and not wake Ken up.

<><>

When Ken woke up it was dark outside.  His clothes, washed and folded, sat on the dresser.  Bryan and Lane let him sleep himself out, and he felt like a new man. Something smelled delicious, and his stomach rumbled loudly.  

He found Bryan and Lane in the kitchen.  Lane was setting out plates as Bryan pulled a big pan of lasagna out of the oven along with two big loaves of garlic bread wrapped in foil.  A large bowl filled with Greek salad already sat on the table.

Bryan's deep voice greeted him as soon as he saw Ken coming down the hallway.

"How'd you sleep?"

"Like a fuckin' rock.  You guys shouldnt've let me sleep so long."

"Everything's fine, and you needed the shut-eye.  I talked to the doc a little while ago.  Ricky and Loy are with Brad and he's doing fine.  We're supposed to take some lasagna in for them.  Don't worry, I made two pans.  Grab a plate, and dig in."

Ken eyed the food and another wave of hunger hit him from the smells.

"Shit guys, it looks fantastic."

Lane opened the fridge and asked, "What do you want to drink?  We have red wine, beer, sweet tea, Coke, Dr. Pepper, milk, water, apple juice, grape juice, and orange juice."

Ken chuckled and said, "What a menu! Beer sounds great."

"Beer it is.  There's plenty in the fridge if you want more.  In fact, there's plenty of everything, so eat and drink your fill.  I'm going to take a look at that fine stomach of yours after dinner, and all I want to see is bloat, no abs."

Ken knew what Bryan and Lane were doing and he loved them for it.  After the events of the last few weeks, Ken relished the normalcy of a good dinner with two of his best friends.  He joined the friendly banter that was a constant between his two buddies just like it was with him and Brad.  Ken didn't realize how badly he needed what they gave him.  He did feel a twinge of guilt that Brad wasn't with them and couldn't be there but quickly masked it.  

As they finished eating and were clearing the plates from the table Ken pondered the situation with Brad.  The doctor always said the human brain was a funny thing.  In the time Ken spent with his two friends he came to a conscious decision he realized he had already made but hadn't yet admitted to himself.  He would stand with Brad, and they would beat the creature together or die trying.

Ken helped Bryan and Lane clean the kitchen and get the food packed up to take back to the Lab.  His mood shifted slightly when they pulled into the Lab, but his friends had done wonders for him, and he didn't let his mood get the best of him.  Now that he made his decision a tremendous weight was off his shoulders.

Bryan and Lane dropped Ken off with the food, and he received a long supportive hug from both his friends before they left.  

When they got back to the house, Lane pulled out his guitar and started working on the song from his dream.  He was frustrated because the words and music seemed just out of reach and he was so close.

Since Lane and Bryan spent all afternoon making out, they only had one round of sex before going to bed.  Lane fell asleep with his head on Bryan's chest, listening to his heartbeat and letting it lull him into a deep relaxing sleep.  

<><>

Lane shot out of bed at 0300 and ran to the den naked.

Startled, Bryan growled "What the fuck?" and took off after him.

He found Lane on the couch, guitar in hand, strumming a song.

Bryan stopped and stared, not sure what was going on.  To Bryan's enhanced vision Lane's dark brown eyes were almost white in the darkness of the room.  Lane turned and looked into Bryan's eyes, saying, "Fuck yeah, Bry!  I got this son of a bitch!"

Bryan was proud of his best friend and partner.  He knew Lane would figure it out.  Bryan was always optimistic, even if his outward demeanor seemed shy and stoic.  Most people had a hard time reading him because his handsome face seldom displayed what he was thinking, except for Lane who could, as he put it, read him like `a cheap romance novel.'

"Play it for me, Little Buddy.  I want to hear what all this fuss has been about."

Lane started playing, and it was both beautiful and haunting at the same time.  Before the end of the first stanza, Bryan's green eyes went white and his mouth opened in surprise. The song tugged at his Mind, and warm sunshine covered his face while a gentle breeze flowed over his naked body.

<><><>

As soon as Ken got back to the Lab he went to check on Brad and found him asleep.  His skin looked gray, and his face haggard.  Ken sat in a chair by the door and stayed with Brad through the night, sleeping lightly in case Brad needed anything.  Brad woke up once to go to the bathroom and saw Ken sitting nearby.

As Brad moved closer, he smelled Ken and instinctively inhaled deeper.  Brad noticed Ken was clean shaven and had gotten a haircut, most likely from Lane.  As soon as he inhaled the clean, fresh smell, and the distinct smell of Ken, he stumbled.  Ken's scent was like crack to the creature and it went wild inside him, ripping and clawing at the cage in Brad's Mind.  His hand instinctively went out to try and regain his balance, and he inadvertently gripped Ken's shoulder.  

As soon as his hand touched Ken it was like Brad had a full body seizure.  His back arched and he lost control and would have fallen if Ken wasn't there to catch him.  Ken was prepared and had a syringe ready and waiting, expecting something like that to happen.  He was figuring out how the creature worked.  Pulling Brad to his chest with one arm, Ken jabbed the needle into Brad's ass with the other.  He put Brad on the bed as quickly as he could and moved away.  That time it took longer for Brad to recover and he was breathing hard, exhausted by the ordeal.

He mumbled a weak, "Thanks" as soon as he could talk.

"Do you need me `ta get the doc to help you `ta the bathroom?"

"No, I can manage."

Brad got back out of bed, but it took him a few minutes to make it to the bathroom.  He moved slow and deliberate, grabbing onto things as he got close to help stabilize him.

Ken's tears weren't from sadness that time, they were from anger.  

Hold on just one more day, Brad.  Tomorrow night we're gonna' end this one way or the other.

By the time Brad got back from the bathroom, he was white as a sheet and fell asleep immediately.  Ken left Brad's room and watched him over the monitor at his desk, trying to give Brad some distance so he could rest easier.

Ken didn't sleep the rest of the night but was still sharp and wide awake the next morning.  He was waiting for the doctor to get up and eat breakfast so they could talk.

A couple of the guys dropped off food for Brad, Ken, and the doctor and once he finished, the doctor went to his office and gestured for Ken to follow.  He shut the door and sat down.

"You have something to say."  

It was a statement, not a question.

"Yes, sir."

"You have made a decision?"

"Yes, sir.  But I don't want Brad `ta know what's goin' on.  That thing inside `a him will know too."

"That is a wise move."

"Doc, I can't take watchin' him slowly die in front of me like this.  Tonight, I wanna have everyone over `ta the house for a cookout.  I'll tell Brad it's for him, `ta get him out of here for a night and be with all our friends.  That's not a lie; spendin' time with Bry and Lane last night did wonders for me.

"Doc... This is my decision, and I take full responsibility for both of us.  Brad is gonna die anyway if we don't do anythin' and I can't envision a life without him.  I'm gonna force a showdown with the creature tonight.  I think we can beat it if Brad and I stand together.  If we can't then we'll both still be together, just not here, and that thing'll be gone either way."

The doctor looked at Ken long and hard, and his eyes were bright when he finally spoke.  

"No matter what happens Kenneth, I want you to know how much I love you and Bradford.  You are like sons to me, and I am proud of all you have become.  I respect your decision, and frankly, I have no alternatives for you.  The only issue, and I beg your forgiveness, is that I cannot be there."

Ken didn't expect that and asked him, "Why not?"

"I am not permitted to be present.  I wish that were not so, but it is, and I can say no more at this time.  Rest assured I will be close by."

"Alright, doc.  If Brad and I make it through this, we're gonna sit down over a beer and you can explain to me exactly what you just meant by that."

<><><>

Ken got in touch with everyone about gathering at his place that night.  The guys said they would be there come hell or high water.  Ken asked them to come early so he could talk with them, and asked Kevin and Bill if they would mind picking Brad up after the meeting.

Ken went to Brad's room and even though his eyes were closed, Ken knew he was awake.  His breathing was shallow, and his skin was turning yellow from jaundice.

"Hey B, how ya doin'?"

"I'm tired.  I'm sorry Ken.  I'm still fighting, but I don't know how much longer I can hold on."

Ken hung his head and sighed saying, "I know B.  I know."  

After a short pause he continued, trying to sound more upbeat, "Hey, I had an idea.  Last night Bry and Lane took me to their place.  Just bein' outta this stuffy Lab for a few hours did wonders for me.  What say we have a little gatherin' tonight at our place?  All the guys wanna see you.  I'll have some shots there if you need `em and I'll give you plenty of space to make it easy for you.  The doc said it was okay if you feel up to it."

Brad didn't respond at first, and after a minute he said, "I'd like that.  I wasn't sure how to bring it up because I didn't want you to think I'm giving up, but I'd like to see all the guys.  It might be my last chance to say goodbye to them."

Ken lowered his head again, his throat tight with emotion.  

"Yeah, there's that.  I'll c'ya tonight.  Kevin and Bill will be by around 1900 `ta pick you up.  I love you, B."

If Ken's hearing wasn't enhanced, he wouldn't have heard Brad's reply.

"I love you too, Ken.  More than you can possibly know."

Ken left before he lost it again.  Seeing Brad in such condition and hearing his words tore him up, but it also strengthened his resolve to win this fight and save them both.

<><><>

Ken went to buy groceries and get the house ready.  He had to go against standing protocol and travel by himself because of the work schedule at the office.  He dared anyone or anything to mess with him.  He almost wished someone would show up and claim responsibility for everything so he could beat the shit out of them.  It took most of the day to get the house in order and the food prepared.  

Ken cleaned himself up and as an afterthought put on Brad's favorite cologne.  He knew it would piss off the creature and that's what he wanted.  He just finished changing clothes when everyone started showing up around 1700.  

Ken noticed Lane brought two guitars, one acoustic, and one electric and that Bryan had his bongo drums under one arm and a big amplifier under the other.  Ken and Brad always loved to listen to them play, and he was grateful they planned to.  

The den was full with all the men packed into the room.  The four couples sat together either on the couch, on the floor, or in chairs.  Ken noticed, maybe because Brad wasn't there, that everyone was touching; either holding hands, or an arm around the other's shoulder, or one leaning back against the other.

He knew the reason; the idea of losing any one of them drove home how much they meant to one another.  Instinctively they sought the comfort of touch, to remind themselves they were together.  It made Ken wish Brad was there with him all the more.

Their usual banter was minimal given the seriousness of the situation.  Most of the guys had a beer or glass of wine in hand, looking at Ken expectantly.  Ken was their Captain, and they were waiting to hear what he had to say.

"Thanks, guys, for bein' here tonight.  It means the world `ta me, and I know it will `ta Brad too.  You all know the basics of what's goin' on.  Brad's in a bad way.  He made a decision to save me, and that decision is costin' him his life.  I can't stand seein' him suffer like he is because of me, and I can't stand the thought of livin' without him."

Ken's throat was starting to tighten up, and most of the guy's eyes were bright with unshed tears.  

"As the sayin' goes, desperate times call for desperate measures.  I'm gonna end this tonight one way or another.  Either I save us both or we both die, tonight, along with that thing inside Brad."

There were whispered `oh shits' and `fuck me's' at his statement.

Kevin asked, "Where's the doc?  Even if you win this fight, you might be in bad shape."

"The doc can't be here tonight."

Confused looks crossed all their faces at Ken's remark.

"It's cool guys.  I talked with him this mornin', and there's a reason he can't be here.  He won't be far away and can be here quickly if he's needed.

"Brad doesn't know any of this, and I couldn't tell him because the thing inside him would know too, and I don't wanna lose the element of surprise.  Honestly, I don't even know how everythin' is gonna go down.  I'm not sure what'll happen when this starts or what you'll see or hear.

"I want you all `ta know how much you mean `ta Brad and me.  If tonight goes south, well, then this is goodbye.  Brad thinks tonight is about sayin' goodbye, but if we're gonna have any chance of success, I'll need every ounce of strength he has left in him.  I think together we can beat this thing."

Lane raised his hand to get Ken's attention.   

"Ken, I'm not sure how this is going to play out but I finished the song last night, and I know it's somehow connected to what's happening to Brad.  I think it'll help; I just don't know how.  I only know I need to play it tonight."

Trying to lighten the mood Ken smiled and said, "I don't know how anythin' that's been brewin' in that wacky brain of yours can help Lanester, but beggars can't be choosers.  I'll happily take whatever you got, Brother.

"Okay ladies, time to use the Kleenex and shut off the waterworks.  Remember, tonight is about Brad.  The better he feels, the stronger he'll be.  Everyone be your usual fuck-up selves and make him happy."

Rick, Loy, Pat, and Darren had covered the security jobs the last week and were the most out of the loop, so while Kevin and Bill left to pick up Brad from the Lab, Ken did his best to fill them in on more details of what was happening with Brad.  While they were talking, Lane set up his amp and Bryan started the grill.  

Even with their genetic enhancements and abilities what was happening was uncharted territory, and everyone was quiet and pensive.  The thing inside Brad wasn't an enemy they could shoot or fight with their hands, but every one of them reiterated to Ken in their own way they were there for him and Brad in any capacity and would do whatever was needed or required.  

Lane pulled Ken aside for a moment after everyone had a chance to express their support.

"Ken, I'm going with my gut on this.  After dinner, me and Bry will play some songs as usual.  Just give me the sign when you're ready, and I'll start... and hold on to your hat when I do."

"What do `ya think's gonna happen?  Should I be worried?"

"Hell yeah, you should be worried.  I don't have a fucking clue how this works, but the doc said to trust and have faith in myself.  He also said he thinks all this is more than coincidence which is scary as hell, so I'm trying not to think too hard about that."  

It wasn't long before Kevin and Bill were back with Brad.  When Ken heard them pull up in the driveway, he made himself scarce.

It was almost dark by the time they arrived.  Brad moved slowly.  He was weak but insisted on making his own way.  As soon as he made it into the kitchen he was greeted loudly and happily by all his Brothers.  The guys covered their emotions well, but they were shocked at Brad's appearance when he came through the door.  He had lost weight, his skin was yellow, his face haggard, and his eyes dark and bruised.  

Each of his Brothers gave him a tight hug and a slap on the back, expressing their love and support through the strength of their arms and their kisses on his cheek.  He wasn't sure who, but someone shoved a beer in his hand at some point.  As soon as any of them pulled him into a hug they realized how weak he was, but they all acted like this was just another summer get-together, one of many, with many more to come.

Brad looked around for Ken but didn't see him and smiling sadly he headed to the backyard.  Bryan wore his apron and was grilling the steaks.  Their grill was huge because of all the cookouts they hosted.  Their house was the primary gathering place for most of the parties.  Bryan had steaks on one side of the grill, and on the other side he had ears of corn wrapped in foil, baked potatoes, and fresh asparagus coated in butter.  Brad smelled bread baking in the kitchen and hoped it was Bryan's famous yeast rolls.  Brad hadn't had much of an appetite for days, but his stomach growled from all the smells.

A pang of sorrow hit him unexpectedly at the sound of his stomach.  He was going to miss the cavernous rumbles Ken's stomach always made when he was hungry.

Someone started the fire pit, and even though Brad wore a hoodie over his t-shirt he felt chilled and sat on the grass by the fire with his back against the brick retaining wall that made up part of the flower bed.  He leaned his head back and tried to soak everything in.  He already felt better than when he walked in the door.  Ken was right, getting out and seeing everyone was good for him, but it just prolonged the inevitable.

Rick brought him a lap tray with a plate filled with more food than he could possibly eat even when he was completely healthy.  Brad did his best to make a dent but was full after only a few bites.

Everyone moved to the backyard and found a spot near him.  They all wanted time with him to catch up on things.  Of course Brad didn't have much to offer, but they all filled him in on what had been going on at the office.  They had new funny stories about clients and talked about Sally's latest boyfriend troubles.  Brad found himself laughing more and more as the night went on.  

While Brad stayed put, everyone chipped in on clearing the plates and getting them into the kitchen.  A feeling of contentment washed over him from the warmth of the fire, the clean, fresh air, and the voices of his friends around him.  The only thing missing was Ken.  

Brad laid his head back and closed his eyes.  He was tired, but for the first time in what felt like forever it was a normal tired.  He felt like he could drift off to sleep surrounded by the warmth of the fire and the sound of his Brothers talking.  

Lane broke out his electric guitar, and he and Bryan sang, taking requests.  Bryan must have been practicing; his drum playing and singing had improved tremendously.

Brad dozed for a bit but woke up when a hand gripped his shoulder.  He smelled Ken even before he opened his eyes.

"Hey B, scoot up a little."  

Ken practically picked Brad up and moved him forward.  Ken sat with his back against the brick wall, and he pulled Brad back against his chest, wrapping his strong arms around him.  Brad felt a needle stick in his arm.

"Ken..."

"Relax B.  I know what I'm doin'."  

Ken nodded to Lane who put down his electric guitar and picked up his acoustic one.

Lane looked at Brad with his infectious grin and said, "Here goes nothing!"

He closed his eyes for a moment and then started playing the most beautiful haunting melody.  Before the end of the first stanza Lane's eyes turned White.  Bryan started on the drums, and his eyes turned White as well.  Lane's Mind Opened, transcended by the music.  

Nature, nurture, Heaven and Home,

Sum of all and by them driven,

His Soul lifted out of his body and Bryan was with him.  Lane had never experienced anything like it in his life, and it was beautiful.  In his Mind he saw the music in the air around him, emanating from his guitar and through his body, igniting something inside him, in all of them that could never be extinguished.

Each man felt the music.  I wasn't just a song; it had some deeper meaning that tugged at their Minds, unlocking something inside of them, a gateway to a place in them that could never close.   Ken felt it and knew it was time to start his plan.

None of them yet had the perception to see or hear the giant robed form of a man crouched by the hedges.  Even bent over his head nearly reached the roofline.   A cowl covered his face as he watched intently and as soon as Lane started playing, he stood and looked skyward.  His massive head nodded once, and he went on bended knee in homage to the humans who were unaware of his presence.  After a moment he stood and vanished back across the Veil.

Ken leaned forward and kissed Brad's cheek, hugging him tighter.  

"I love you, Brad.  I can't stand this anymore, so we're endin' this tonight one way or another.  Don't fight me B... Help me kill this thing."  

Ken squeezed his eyes shut and buried his head against Brad's shoulder.  

Brad panicked and tried to move away, but Ken held him securely in his grip.

"Fuck! You idiot, you don't understand..."  

Brad's voice faded as he lost consciousness, his eyes going White and his body slumped against Ken.  The song carried them both out of their bodies and to the River.

To conquer every mountain shown

But I've never crossed the River...

<><>

Ken no longer felt the brick wall against his back.  He opened his eyes and was surprised to see he was sitting on a beach beside a huge bonfire next to a river.  The moon, full and bright, illuminated the cove.

Ken realized Brad wasn't with him but heard him yelling from far off.  It took him a few seconds, but by the light of the full moon he saw Brad across the River on the far shore waving his arms frantically.   

Fuck!  We were supposed to be together!

 The End of Chapter Four

Author's Note:

The song in this chapter that Lane sings is "The Humbling River" by Puscifer. This song pretty much inspired the first five chapters, but I continue using the metaphor of the `River' through all 30 Chapters. I think it would add to the story if you gave it a listen. Here's a link to it on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3KfpkAwTMY

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