Wolf Guardians

Disclaimer: I'll make it short and sweet this time. If you are a minor, you have been warned. If you aren't supposed to be here, I suggest that you exit the window. Not like it's going to stop you. Any others that I haven't thought of you also have been warned as well. If you don't like gay sexual content, I have no sympathy for you. I strongly advise that you also vacate the window. Thanks!!

Wolf Guardians: Chapter 10- A Birthday Affair

Rance still had doubts about Warren Steveson telling his father, Naz. Whenever he looked in James' eye there was comfort, and reassurance.

James' birthday was approaching rapidly. Rance started to plan every detail. "You know you really shouldn't do this for me." James kept saying to Rance, hoping that he would get his way.

Rance being stubborn as he was, just kept on planning. When Rance was busy planning, James just left Rance alone and did other things.

James was floating in the pool, looking at the ceiling. The powers inside of him kept getting stronger and stronger. There have been a couple of moments when James woke up he found himself levitating above his bed.

Sometimes James didn't even wake up at all. This would worry Rance a little bit. The powers within him started to affect his moods more then they had.

Rance found out not to let James know that he worried about him. There was one instant when James didn't wake up until the next day, James looked over and saw Rance. "You know I don't need someone watching me sleep!" He snapped at Rance.

Rance saw James' eye glow red. The redness faded and James looked at Rance in shock. "I'm sorry Rance, I didn't know what came over me."

"I know it wasn't your fault. These powers are having a real fun time playing with you." Rance held James' hand and kissed it.

James was so deep in thought he didn't see nor hear Reuol come in. Reuol walked on the water and looked down at James, "Is everything okay?"

James moved his eyes and looked at Reuol, "Yeah. At least I think so."

"You don't look like it to me. More or less it looks like you were lost in thought." Reuol said as he could read James like a book.

"These powers are completely taking over me little by little. I can't help some of the things that happen." James started to levitate over the water.

"It will take you awhile to control them, for now until they are completely released, they do as they please." Reuol looked at James.

The sound of breaking glass echoed in the poolroom. They both looked over and saw a troop with guns. Reuol put his hand on James' stomach. They mental communicated with each other. "Concentrate with me James. We're going to have a little fun with these intruders."

Both of them closed their eyes as they slowly went into the water, "Shot them!"

Before any bullets hit the water, Reuol and James completely faded. "It's a trick, stay on your guard men." The captain instructed his men.

Rance, Zang, and Vance heard the shattering of glass and raced to where the crashing came from.

The men just looked around the room, ready for anything to happen. The water from the pool had gone over the edge. From the water underneath one of the soldiers started to shift into a pair of hands. The water formed hands grabbed the ankles of the soldier and swiftly brought him into the pool. The soldier tried to fight whatever had grabbed him. He tried to swim up towards the surface of the water. He was held down in the water like dead weight. The soldier looked down and saw what was holding him down. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. He saw James in a watery form. James smiled.

The rest of the troops saw and heard what was going on and aimed their guns at the water. Soon the captured soldier came up outta the water. He was held in mid air by a column of water, with his mouth covered. He tried to break the water in front of his mouth. But, the water over his mouth went back into the pool, "It's a trick, don't shot! He's in the water!"

They again aimed their weapons at the water. The water started to bubble. All of their attention was focused on where the bubbling was coming from. Out of the water shot a wolf like creature. Bullets were shot at the creature. The bullets just went right through the water-based body. The wolf then showed it's fangs and it split into different parts and formed more water wolf creatures.

The soldiers tried to retreat but were quickly stopped by either water wolves or were dragged into the water.

When Rance heard the sound of guns going off, he started running faster.

Rance opened the door and found lifeless bodies of the intruders. The water from the pool started to whirl. Out of the water came James in his watery from. As soon as he set foot on the floor he returned back to normal form. He shook his head to get the water out of his hair. He looked at Rance as if nothing happened. "What?" James smirked at Rance and Zang.

They were both astounded at what they were seeing. "Reuol and I had playmates, but they didn't want to play with us." James remarked.

Just then Vance entered the pool room, "Reuol, where is he?"

"I'm right here Vance." A voice answered from behind him.

Vance turned around and flung his arms around him, "I thought something might have happened to you."

Reuol smiled and patted Vance on the back, "You must remember that I cannot be killed."

Vance looked at Reuol, "Don't mean a thing, I'll still worry."

James started to feel lightheaded, and the room started to spin in circles. Rance knew something was coming over James. James lost all feeling in his body and started to collapse. Zang and Rance both ran over to catch James before completely hitting the ground. Rance checked for any vital signs that James was still alive. "He's still with us, we'd better get him to bed." Rance announced.

They lay James on his bed. Rance pulled a blanket over James. "You don't seem as worried as you usually are Rance." Zang commented.

"Well, it's expected, since his birthday is drawing closer." Rance replied back.

"I'll go see what Vance and Reuol are up to. I'll leave you with James." Zang closed the door behind him.

Rance started to feel a little tired and lay down next to James. Rance put his hand on James', as he slowly started to fall into a peaceful sleep.

There was a warm gentle breeze blowing through the rows of cherry trees. The petals from the blossoms fell down and caught a ride with the breeze. Right at the end of the row of trees there was a man dressed in a white dress suit. "James is that you?" Rance called out.

The man turned around and indeed it was James. When James saw Rance he smiled and extended his right arm out to Rance. Rance was dressed in a violet suit with a trench coat on. He started to walk towards James. When he finally got close to James he put his hand in James'. Rance then pulled James into him. James rested his head on Rance. The sweet sound of a string ensemble filled the air. They both started to dance. Rance looked up at the sun through the branches of the cherry trees. Rance stopped dancing and looked at James. Rance got the idea of getting on his knees. Out of nowhere a pillow appeared on the ground between them.

Rance held James' hand as he knelt, "James Matthew you're the only thing that keeps my heart beating. Since the day I first saw your face. There was something more then your face that took me over. I could feel something inside coming from you. At that moment I knew I had to be there by your side to comfort you from any pain or sorrow. I knew that I needed your touch to tell me that you loved me too."

James just looked at Rance as his eyes started to fill with tears. "I'll do anything to keep you out of harms way. I'll always be by your side even in your dreams, letting you know how much I really do care. I want you to wear this." Rance went in his pocket and opened his hands.

Inside his hand was a black hills gold ring, "This is to symbolize my love and affection for you, an everlasting guarantee."

A tear ran down his face as Rance put the ring on his finger. Rance stood up and looked at James' joyfully watered eyes. James wrapped his arms around Rance. "There is no one I'd rather be with right now besides you. I never want to bring you any pain or sorrow. You're the other half of my soul that makes me complete. I'll always cherish the love that we have between us forever and for always. Nothing or no one will ever get in the way of it as long as we both shall live."

James held Rance's hand. There was a glow from their hands. James opened his hand and Rance saw a ring on his finger. He looked at James with his smile.

As real as the dream was, the rings they gave each other appeared on their fingers as they lay on the bed.

Naz walked into Warren's room, seeing his son packing his stuff, "Going so soon son?"

Warren turned around at his father and gave him a sneer, "What makes you say that father?"

Naz wasn't appreciative of his son's tone towards him, "You never talk to me like that you little..."

Naz caught himself before he said anymore. Naz saw a tear in Warren's eyes, "There must be a good reason that you are leaving. In all my years as a father I've never seen you shed a tear."

Warren gasped a little. "You met him didn't you?" Naz was in Warren's face.

Warren closed his eyes, "And let me guess you've grown very fond of him haven't you?"

"If I did, so what." Warren snapped at his father, "Now if you don't mind, I must leave."

Naz moved out of Warren's way. "This is getting very interesting more and more with every move." Naz said as he watched Warren get into a cab through the window.

At the airport while waiting for his flight, Warren was sitting down watching people go by. He decided that he would shut his eyes. He looked up and saw James standing in front of him. James knelt down. Warren opened his mouth to say something, but James put his finger over Warren's mouth.

They announced his flight over the P.A. system and Warren woke up. He looked around seeing if James was truly there. He sighed in disappointment and grabbed his luggage and went to his flights gate.

There was a bustle in the manor halls. James was outside on the patio reading a book. The sun was being doing its warm rays of light. James saw someone sit beside him through the corners of his eyes. He put down his book and looked over to see who it was. "How goes it today?" Vance asked.

"It's going. I can't stand it with all that's going on in there. To many people." James smiled.

"Well, Rance wants it to be perfect for your birthday party." Vance replied back.

"He's doing to much to please me though." James laid his head back.

"Rance is the stubborn breed, which you found out." Vance snickered a little.

"Yeah, don't I know." James chuckled back with Vance.

"I'm not the only one that is stubborn around here." Rance commented.

James and Vance both look over at Rance, then back at each other. Rance sat right on James' lap and gave James a glass of water. "Why thanks, you're so thoughtful, what's the catch???"

"Does there have to be a catch?" Rance smirked at James.

"My dear sir, there's always a catch to everything." James smirked back at Rance.

"I think I'll let you two be alone." Vance got up.

"Good then James can't ask for help when I do this." Rance started to tickle James' sides.

James started to fidget and squirm, "Hey no tickling me!! Totally unfair! You're sitting on me so I can't go anywhere!! Vance, help me out here!!!"

Vance chuckled as he watched James squirm, "You're on your own there James."

Vance went inside the manor.

Rance stopped tickling James. "You know how much I hate that!" James hit Rance on the arm.

Rance leaned in and kissed James on the lips, "I know, that's why I do it."

"Is that why you came out here to torture me???" James grinned.

"No. I came out to have a break with you. Something wrong with that?" Rance looked at James' grin.

James shook his head no and went back to reading his book. Rance just ran his finger through James' hair. Not a word was spoken between them. "I spoke to your mom over the phone." Rance broke the silence.

James put his book down and looked up at Rance, "And?"

"She's so happy that you're okay, and she'll be here tomorrow along with your brother and sister." Rance announced.

James put his hand around the back part of Rance's neck and pulled his face closer to his. It was a quick peck on the lips, "Thanks."

"So how are you feeling with it only being three more days till your birthday?" Rance asked.

"I'm okay for the moment, but you know well as I do that I can change in a matter of moments. It's strange that the Steveson's haven't tried anything in the past few weeks." James took a notice.

"I know, it's been such a relief but yet not. Either something is going on with them, or they are just waiting for the right moment to strike again." Rance spoke his thoughts.

James put his hand over Rance's mouth. Rance wondered what possessed him to put his hand over his mouth. "Don't say anything, let just relax for once." James said.

They both closed their eyes and let the warmth of the sun's rays on them. They shortly heard a cough. They opened their eyes and looked, "Sorry Rance, James, but Rance you're needed inside."

"Thanks Master Zang, I'll be right there in a moment." He paused and looked at James. James just sighed, "I'm sorry."

"That's okay, you're the one that wanted to plan this party for my birthday not me." James remarked.

"Hey listen mister." Rance started tickling James again.

"Stop that!" James fidgeted.

"Not in your life, and you know it." Rance kissed James' forehead and went inside.

James got up and started to walk away from the manor, "Do you mind if I walk with you James?"

"Not at all Master, I don't mind having company." James gave Zang a warm smile.

They both started to walk to the garden. James' mind recalled the first time he changed into a wolf. The emotions started to surge through him as he remembered seeing Rance helpless. He bent down and smelt a rose. He turned his head to see a strange look on Zang's face. "Is something wrong Master?" James asked.

"There's nothing wrong, but you're glowing James." Zang explained his face.

James looked at his body, and indeed he was radiating with light and power. "Don't panic James, it might just be a little releasing of some of the powers." Zang said.

"Is this all because I recalled the first day in this garden and the feelings that I felt?" James thought to himself.

He didn't noticed but any plant life that was around him started growing faster and bigger. Inside him he felt all warm and calm. Soon sparks started to pop from him. Zang backed up a little. A spark landed on Zang, and soon his mind was filled with serenity. He closed his eyes as a breeze blew. He opened his eye to see that he was dressed in white clothes.

Rance was busy talking to the decorator. He suddenly felt light inside. He knew were this energy was coming from, "Would you excuse me for a moment." Rance said and left the room to find James.

When he got to the patio where he saw James last he saw a spark fly towards him. His clothes changed. Rance looked where the spark came from. Rance ran to the garden and opened the gate. He saw James and Zang both dressed in white. James looked at Rance. Soon Reuol and Vance appeared out of nowhere also dressed in white. "What's going on?" They all looked at James still glowing.

"I have no clue." Zang answered.

James' eyes glowed white, "You are the guardians of this man. You were all brought here for a purpose. The powers he possess inside his body must never reach the hands of someone who has dark purposes."

It wasn't James' voice at all. His voice was distorted and sounded older. "Soon he'll be put through tests to see if he is worthy of such power. This is when he'll need all of you to lend your strength, power, belief and love for him."

James' eyes stopped glowing and when back to their original state. James looked at all three of them, "Is something the matter?"

James looked around him. He smiled, "Are you guys okay??"

"You don't remember what just happened or what was said James?" Vance asked.

James had a confused look on his face, "I said something?"

"It really doesn't matter about that." Zang said as he put his hand on Rance's shoulders.

This confused James even more. "I believe that we should get back to what were doing. James if you would please come with me." Zang waved James to follow him.

James complied and followed Zang. The other three did as Zang had told them. "James, the powers inside you astounded me. You only have a couple of one more day until your birthday, and surprising things have been happening that surrounds you." Zang started to say.

"You're telling me." James rolled his eyes.

"I couldn't help notice that you and Rance have rings on your fingers." Zang raise his eyebrow.

"Yeah, it's kind of strange about these." James looked at his ring.

The flashback of his dream ran through his head. Zang just looked at him, "Mind telling me?"

James looked at Master Zang. James stopped where he was, "Yesterday after the incident in the pool room I had this dream. I was in the orchard of cherry trees. I started to look around seeing if anyone was around. I heard Rance's voice. Low and behold he was there, looking damn good I might add. Anyway, we started to dance. Rance then got on his knees and gave me this ring. After that, I put my hands over his, and suddenly when I removed my hands, he had a ring on too. When I woke up I felt the ring on my finger. I thought it was weird. I looked at Rance laying beside me and notice he had the same ring on his finger."

"Hmmm, that is very interesting." Zang contemplated what James said, "Well don't let it get the best of you."

James looked at Zang and smiled. Zang smiled back at James.

Later on, James was having troubles trying to sleep. Millions of thoughts where racing through his mind.

Outside the door there was a glow of bright light. He wondered what had happened to cause the light. He put a robe on and headed to the door. When he opened the door the light entered the room. James shaded his eyes from the brightness. The light dimmed down. "Am I dreaming???" James thought.

"I must not be." Rance's voice answered.

"Rance, what are you doing here?" James asked.

"I saw the light through the cracks of my door." Rance answered back.

Rance was standing on the other side of a pool of water. The steam came off the water the rested in a marble built pool. There were steps heading into the pool in front of both of them. James went to the edge and put his feet in. "The water is just perfect." He took off his robe and clothes and went in the pool.

All thoughts that were in his head had vanished. James felt more relaxed as he sat on one of the lower steps.

Rance soon took off his clothes and entered the water. He went over to James and held his hands. James looked in Rance's eyes. "Relax descendant, for your body will need the rest. Clear all thoughts of sorrows, woes and troubles." Ardaous' voice echoed.

They both looked around. James rested his head back and closed his eyes. Rance just looked at him. Rance looked at their rings through the water. "Rance free your mind of fear and doubt for he'll need your help the most. Be by his side, never leave it." Ardaous showed himself.

He was standing behind James in a white monk's robe. Ardaous looked down at James, "He is resting, you must return back to the manor."

Rance took James in his arms and got out of the pool. A door way opened and Rance went through.

The next morning, inside the manor was busier getting last minute preparations done for the party.

James was humming since he woke up. He felt more energetic and at ease then he had since this whole ordeal began.

Rance asked Vance to go to the airport to pick up James' family. Reuol went with Vance.

An hour later they arrived back at the manor. The car stopped and the manor door opened, "Mrs. Matthew, it's nice to meet you in person." Rance greeted James' mother.

"You must be Rance, the one I talked to on the phone." James' mother smiled and shook Rance's hand.

She noticed that he had a ring on his finger. "This is my other son TJ, James' youngest brother, and his sister Rebecca." James' mother introduced them.

"It's a pleasure to meet his siblings." Rance nodded his had and both of them, "May I?" He extended his arm out for James' mother.

"Wow, what a gentleman too, James better hold on to you. You're a keeper in my book." James' mother laughed.

When they got up to the door James came out of the door. His mother's eyes started to water. James gave his mother a hug. "I'm so glad to see you mom." James said.

"I'm so glad that you're alive and well." His mother tears streamed down her face.

James held his mother's hand as they all walked inside. Rance and James showed them the manor and the grounds. They were introduced to Vance, Reuol, and Master Zang.

Well, I'm sure you're all hungry, why don't we all go get something to eat." Rance said and they all went to the dinning room.

They were soon served a lunch that they were all satisfied with. They all stayed in the dinning room after eating. James' mother couldn't take it much more, "I hate to pry, but I notice you and James have rings on."

Rance and James held each other's hands and looked at each with a little redness in their face. "We like to think of them as engagement rings Mrs. Matthew." Rance answered.

"Please call me Camy." James' mother smiled at both of them.

Rance smiled back, "I'm sure you all want to unpack and rest before the party tonight. You are free to look around and get comfortable. I have to take care of some last minute business."

He looked at James, "I'll just help my mother with her stuff."

They all got up and left the dinning room.

In her room James started to explain the reason he is there, "Mom, it's hard to explain why I'm really here."

"James, just tell me." His mother said.

"Promise me you won't freak out." James looked in her eyes.

"I promise as your mother." His mother gave her word.

"Rance's family has always been watching and protecting our family. An enemy of theirs is out to find a book, that is sealed inside me." James started to state.

His mother just looked at him listening, "This book will not appear until my birthday, that is why we are having the party tonight. From what I was told, I'll be in a coma type state. Also sealed in me are powers to protect the book. I'm the guardian of this book."

His mother put her hand on top of James' lap, "I've always had a feeling something was different about you, besides being gay son. This really doesn't surprise me. Anything is possible in the world. This is your destiny, I can't do anything about it but let it happen."

"I just didn't want to you worry too much if I've been acting weird. These powers have been having a party with me." James explained.

"Well, let's not worry about it now. Until the time comes then that's when we'll worry." His mother started to unpack here luggage.

After she got done unpacking she looked at her son, "It's a beautiful day outside, perfect for a nice walk outside wouldn't you say?"

James smile back at his mother, "A walk sounds good. I can take you to the garden, it's so beautiful, you'd love it mom."

James offered his mother his arm. She smiled and put her arm around his.

A few minutes later they arrived at the garden gate. His mother was stunned; by all the different flowers and plants "It's so beautiful. You weren't kidding. It's more then beautiful, it's majestic!"

James started to feel warm inside seeing his mother happy. "So when are you guys...getting you know?" His mother asked.

"Married mother." James smiled back, "We haven't really talked... I meant discussed it yet."

"Do you really love him James?" His mother looked for signs on his face.

James was stunned at what his mother was asking him, "I do love him. He's protected me this far. He's cared for my needs aside from his."

"I'll give him credit, he's a gentleman, and you can't find that now a days. I just don't want to see you get hurt James. I worry as a mother should do for her children." She commented.

They walked out of the garden "I hope you are going to be happy with him, James."

"I do to mom." James gave his mom a hug.

"James you feel so warm." His mother stated.

They unlocked from their hug and his mom saw James glowing with light. Sparks started flying from him, "I love him so much, I'd sacrifice everything for him."

Tears trailed down his face as a burst of sparks flew. A spark went to his mother, and changed her clothes. She was in a white silk dress with embroidery and lace.

Inside Reuol felt something coming from outside the garden. "Reuol is something the matter?" Vance asked as he and Reuol looked out the window.

They saw two sparks flying right at them. They backed away from the window. The sparks phased through the window and hit them.

Rance and Master Zang were in the study. Rance got up and sensed something coming. Shortly Zang felt the same. Two colorful sparks came through the study's window and headed right to them.

Before they all knew it they were transported to a different place. They all looked at each other. "Where are we?" Zang asked.

Rance took a good look around at the scenery. "It's can't be." He whispered.

Rance looked behind him to see James in the same suit from his dream. Their attention focused on James. James looked at Reuol and smiled.

The sweet smell of cherry blossom filled the air. "We are here to witness the union of two souls, brought together by destiny and love." Reuol started saying.

Vance looked at Reuol, "This isn't?"

Vance quickly went silent.

Rance looked into James' eyes. It was like he heard all the words that ran through James' head. "Rance this is the perfect moment for us. This is the perfect birthday gift that I gratefully share with you." Rance heard in his head.

"With the bands they wear on their fingers, they signify that they will be one with each other, now and for always. Let it be known that they are as one complete." Reuol finished.

They both leaned in and gave each other a kiss. A gentle wind blew and the petals of the blossoms started to float down. James looked over at his mother, who had tears in her eyes. He went in his pocked and gave a tissue. She gave him a big hug. She then looked at Rance and hugged him and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

"Welcome to the family." Camy wiped her tears with the tissue.

The other three looked at both of them and congratulated them. Soon they returned back to the manor.

"Well, I'm going to take a nap before the party starts so I look refreshed." James leaned towards Rance and gave him a peck on the cheek.

"I'll see you at the party then." Rance said back.

James and his mother went inside the manor. "I'll see you later on tonight. I'm so proud of you James." His mother still had tears in her eyes.

James went to his room and lay on his bed. A few seconds later he heard a knock on the door, "Come in."

The door opened. "Are you feeling okay so far?" Rance asked.

"So far so good. I'm just about to take a nap before the party, want to be rested." James smiled back at Rance.

"Okay, I'll let you get some sleep." Rance went over and gave James a kiss on his forehead.

The door closed. "Mind if I join you James?" Reuol's voice spoke.

James saw Reuol in his wolf form, "Sure, I don't mind if someone joins me. Did you tell Vance where you are?"

"I told him that I had to be with you just in case anything happened. He understood." Reuol answered back.

Reuol curled in a ball at the end of the bed on the floor. James soon fell asleep.

James felt something nuzzling him on his side. He saw Reuol using his nose to poke at his side. James groaned and rolled over. Reuol then grinned. James soon heard Reuol howl inside his mind. James jumped out of bed and was breathing heavily. "Are you trying to give me a heart attack?" James said clutching his hand over his chest.

"No, just trying to wake you up." Reuol answered back.

"Well, it worked, are you happy now that I'm awake?" James remarked back at Reuol.

Reuol changed into his human form, "Very happy I must say." Reuol grinned.

"Okay smart ass you might as well find Vance and get ready." James started to unbutton his shirt.

"Boy, you're cranky when someone wakes you up." Reuol smiled at James as he closed the door.

Reuol started to walk down the hall, "Hey Reuol is James up?"

Reuol stopped and turned to see Rance heading his way, "Oh yeah his is up, I made sure of that. He's just getting ready."

"Good, the rest of the guests and family members are arriving." Rance opened the door.

James looked at the opening door and saw Rance peek his head through the door, "May I help you sir?"

Rance saw James with his shirt and pants off. "Just making sure you're getting ready." Rance smiled at him.

"I'm going to take a quick shower then I'll get dressed. It won't be long." James said back.

Rance closed the door.

Few seconds later James stepped out in his robe and carrying a towel over his shoulder. James turned on the hot water. He hung the towel on the hook, then took off the robe and went into the stall. The hot water felt good as it hit him.

When he stepped out of the stall he saw a tux hanging by his towel. All James thought is that he didn't see or hear anyone coming in. But he then thought that he really wasn't paying attention, and that there was a lot of steam from the water. He dried himself off and put on his robe. He grabbed the tux and went to his room.

James started put on the pants when there was a knock on the door. Rance came in, "Ah, you did see the tux.

He went over and helped James put on his shirt. Rance then grabbed the tie and tied it for James. James sprayed some cologne on him. James put the blazer on and looked at Rance. "Almost done." Rance said and went over to the dresser and grabbed a rose.

Rance pinned it to the blazer, "Now you're ready. Let's go."

James and Rance kissed before they left the room. They walked all the way to the ballroom holding hands. There were two guys standing by the doors. When they say Rance and James come closer they opened the door for them. Music came from the room. Laughing was heard, and everyone was having a good time. The room went silent then they all applauded. James turned a little red, but he smiled. James' mother came over to him and hugged him, "Happy birthday James."

Vance and Reuol came over, "Happy birthday, birthday boy."

James chuckled when they said that. Everyone went silent again, "Family, friends and people close to my heart, I thank you for coming from the bottom of my heart. I didn't really want a party. But somebody who shall remain nameless was stubborn and went on ahead planning." James poked Rance in the side a little.

Everyone just laughed. "Please enjoy yourselves and have a good time." Rance finished.

"The birthday boy needs his birthday spankings, but we'll let you do the honors later Rance." James' brother said out loud.

James turned even redder. Rance just laughed with everyone else. "You're birthday is next there bub, so just wait." James commented back.

Once more people chuckled. Music started playing and everyone started to dance. Rance walked James to their table. James grabbed the glass of wine that was in front of him. People came up to him and said happy birthday. Some talked with him about anything. When he wasn't talking to anyone he watched people down. Vance's voice came over the speakers, "It's time for the birthday boy to come dance."

James started to refuse, but Rance grabbed him by his wrist and lead James out to the floor. The lights went dim and a slow version of One In A Million started playing. Rance and James started to slow dance. Soon others joined them on the floor. James just rested his head on Rance, and let Rance take over. James started to feel a little dizzy. He stopped dancing. "Is everything okay James?" Rance asked concerned.

"I'm just felt a little dizzy, nothing to get worried about. I just need to sit down for a moment." James went and sat down.

"Are you okay James?" He heard his mom say.

"I'm okay mom, just a little dizzy spell." James answered.

A minute later the spinning went away. Soon James heard, "Wanna make some music to take me in and out of my head. Get into my groove in time with my body instead. And when the bass kicks in I can feel my song beginning'. Boy your loving' gets me high, cause you're the only one who can pump it loud the way I like."

He took off the blazer, grabbed Rance and went on the dance floor again. They started to dirty dance. At first Rance thought it was strange for James just all of the sudden feel better, but the thought disappeared.

They stayed out on the floor for a couple of more songs. James feeling a little tired had to stop to get a breather.

A slow dance started playing, "I'll ask your mom for a dance while you have a break." Rance smiled.

James was having so much fun he didn't know that the time went by quickly. He started to feel thirsty and went to get another glass of wine. James took a couple of sips, and as he was doing so the clock stuck twelve, and James started to feel really weird. The room started getting wavy. James put the glass on a nearby table. He tried to stand up straight but it wasn't doing much. Some of Rance's family asked if he was okay. To James their voices where muffled. Rance finally looked over to see where James was. James' eyes rolled back and everything went black.

James collapsed on the floor shaking. Everyone's attention was fixed on James. Master Zang was the first one to reach James, "Everyone move back, he needs room."

Rance, Vance and Reuol arrived at the same time. "It's happening." Reuol said.

"Then we must get him to his room." Rance picked him up off the floor.

"Is there something I can do Rance???" Dr. Phillips asked.

"Doctor I don't think you know anything about what's happening to him." Rance was walking at a fast pace.

"Rance where are you?" James called out.

"I'm right here James." Rance replied.

"I don't think he was serious about that question Rance. I can feel that the powers inside him caused him to say that." Zang commented as he, Vance, and Reuol followed Rance.

As soon as they got in his room, Rance laid James on the bed. "Lock the door, we are not to be disturbed." Rance commanded.

It was like James was walking through a thick cloud of fog. "Where am I?" James asked.

"It is time for you to be put to the test." A voice thundered above.

The clouds parted in front of him, and standing there was Ardaous. "Come here James, it is time. You'll first be tested on your body to see if your body can with stand such power." Ardaous explained the first test.

"Please stand inside the circle." Ardaous told James.

James stepped on a platform that had a glass circle. James turned around and faced Ardaous. The glass circle began to glow. Eight crystal formations emerged from the glass and started glowing. The crystals then produced electricity. James started to scream in pain as he felt bolts piece him. With every scream he made the electricity would intensify. Tears started to stream down his face. "Remember what you were taught James. You must focus." Ardaous said as he could not do anything to ease the pain.

James started to remember all the lessons and instructions from Master Zang. "Be one with your body, and it will help you." He remembered Zang telling him.

He remembered how long it took to get in shape with all the training. Even though his body ached he still went on. "You have six points of your body were energy is focused. They are your head, arms, legs and your torso. If you can have them all in one combined you be a formidable foe." Another lesson Master Zang told him came to mind.

James stopped screaming a little. "You must take the pain that an opponent strikes upon you and use it to your advantage." Zang's voice echoed in his mind.

He collected all the pain that he felt. He then used the six points to spread the pain to equalize the energy. The electricity stopped. The crystals then glowed brightly. James felt a warm surge through his body. He felt so light like he was flying. The crystals stopped glowing and then went back into the glass circle. "You have passed the first test. Please step down James." Ardaous congratulated James, "The next test is a little harder. You will be tested on you mind. Remember to have faith in yourself."

Before them appeared a forest. In front of James was a double of himself. This confused James a bit. "What does this mean?" James turned to Ardaous and found him gone.

James looked at his double. His double looked a little stronger then him and more serious. "Do I have to personally fight him?"

"Come on you wimpy faggot." His double called out.

"I may be a wimpy faggot, but don't forget you're a fag yourself." James spat back an insult.

"Show me what your made of then tough man." His double taunted.

"If you insist." James then started to do maneuvers.

It seemed that every move he made is double seemed to know what he was going to do. "Boy he's good. Far better then me." James thought to himself.

His double then used his knee and hit James in the stomach. James lost his breath and went to the ground. "Some piece of art you are. You're to easy." His double laughed at him.

"So, you think." James got back up still a little down winded from the blow.

"I need to shut him up. I don't care if he is me, I'm not that cocky." James thought to himself.

James cleared his mind of every thought he had. "You make it so easy for me don't you?" His double came up to him and threw a punch.

James caught the fist in his hand. His double gasped. He tried to push against James' strength. James then opened his eye and used his knees. His double crouched trying to catch his breath. "Not bad, but that's still amateur."

James just remembered what Ardaous said "You have to have faith in yourself."

"I maybe an amateur, but I have something you don't." James slapped back.

They started fighting again. Each one of them blocking every move that other made. "I must believe in myself. There are other people that believe in me too." James thought as faces of Rance, Vance, Reuol, Zang, his mother, sister, and brother flashed in his mind.

His aura started to glow and he made an uppercut punch. His double flew a few feet away. The double then stood up and looked at James, "You have completed the second test. I knew that you could do it."

His double and the forest faded like it appeared. "You did really well, now you have one more test. You will be tested on your heart for the final test." Ardaous commended James, "Just keep walking straight ahead."

Ardaous pointed what way he had to walk. James didn't see anything but clouds.

"Rance!" A strange voice echoed in the room.

They all looked around. "Whose voice is that?" Zang asked.

Rance stood up and looked around again.

Before their eyes Rance vanished into thin air.

"Where'd Rance go? What's going on?" Vance looked at Reuol then at James.

Rance found himself in a mist of thick fog. "Is anyone there?" Rance called out.

There was nothing. Rance decided to walk forward. Before taking any steps a man appeared in front of him. Rance looked at the man. " Ardaous."

"Indeed it is I Rance Towers.

"Rance, he has past the first two tests." Ardaous stated.

"He did, that great, but why am I here?" Rance asked

"The powers have brought you here. I must tell you that these powers do not intend to do you any harm. It will only use you to test James." Ardaous explained more.

Ardaous turned his head and looked behind him through the mist. "He approaches. Forgive me for what I must put you through." Ardaous waved his hand over Rance's face.

Rance then fell unconscious.

James thought he heard voices talking ahead of him. He decided to follow the sound of the voices. As he approached the mist started to clear away. James gasped at the sight he saw before him. His eyes saw Rance on a wooden stake. Rance's arms and legs were bound on the stake with rope. James' first instinct was to run to Rance and get him down. Not even eight feet from the stake bound Rance, James screamed in pain.

He felt the shock of electricity flow through his body. He backed away trying to recover from the blast. He looked up at Rance, "This electricity is far more powerful then the electricity before. I'll just do what I did in the first test."

James took another step and was prepared for the electricity to flow through him. James tried hard to concentrate all the energy. He couldn't take it any more and started to scream.

Rance started to wake. Rance moved his head up and saw James. Rance smiled to see James. "Rance, I'll get you down from there." James smiled right back.

James started to walk forward again. Electric bolts surged through his body James did not scream. He gritted his teeth, and tears watered down his face. Rance cried out, "James don't come any further!"

Back in the room, James' body started to float above the bed. The three of them didn't know what to make of it. "Don't disturb him. It might do harm to him if we try to interfere." Reuol pointed out.

James didn't care. He just focused his eyes on Rance. "James you're going to kill yourself! Please don't!" Rance called out to him as tears formed.

"ARRRRRHHHHH!" James couldn't hold it anymore and pushed the force field as hard as he could.

Suddenly, James started to glow with light. He pushed one more and this time he stepped through the field of electricity. It was like he phased through, and when he did the stake and the ropes faded away. Rance floated down to the ground. As soon as Rance touched ground he ran to James. James was feeling weak and started to collapse.

Rance caught him in his arms. James looked up at Rance and smile. "Rance, you mean so much to me." James said in a soft voice as he put his hand on Rance's face.

Ardaous reappeared, "I commend you. You have passed the final test."

James smiled and his vision blurred and he fell asleep. "Don't worry, he's just tired. What he just displayed proved his heart is filled with love that he would sacrifice himself for the people he loves. It is now time for you go to back." Ardaous told Rance.

James' body glowed brightly as a book appeared out of his body. His body then floated back on the bed. Rance then appeared back in the room. The three of them looked at him in amazement, "Where did you go?" Zang asked.

"To the dimension where James was being tested." Rance smiled, "He's passed all three tests."

They all then looked at James who was sleeping peacefully. "Rance look." Vance pointed at a book beside James.

Rance went over and picked up the book, "We have to keep this in a safe place until he wakes up."

It had been two and a half weeks since James' birthday. This made Rance worry even more then before. "Could this have been too much for him that he's stuck in a coma for good?" Rance thought to himself.

Not once did Rance leave James' side unless he had to use the bathroom. Rance made sure that when he did someone was watching him.

After the party James' family went back home a little worried as well. His mother called every day to see if anything had changed with James' condition.

It was a beautiful day out and Rance had the curtains open to let the light into the room. His thoughts raced a millions miles a second. "Please James give us a sign that you're okay." Rance thought as he was biting on his fingernail.

"Would you stop it with your worrying, I'm all right." James said in a scruffy soft voice.

This surprised Rance and he went to James' side. James opened his eyes and looked over at Rance. "What am I going to do with you? You worry just as bad as I do at times. Only one of us can worry, and I'm not stopping now." James commented.

Rance chuckled a little, "You think I'm going to either? You've been asleep for more then two weeks you know."

"It has been that long? No wonder I'm this hungry." James heard and felt his stomach calling for food.

"I'll get you something to eat, then I have to call your family to let them know that you're awake and doing fine." Rance got up and started to leave for the door.

"Rance." James called him.

Rance turned around and looked at James. "I love you." James smiled.

"I love you to." Rance returned the smile and left the room.