The Order

 A cold, wet sensation on her face tugged at Sally’s consciousness.  Foggy and confused, her eyes fluttered open.  Her head pounding, with a groan she rolled over, attempting to sit up but stopped immediately when pain shot through her bruised and sore body.

Her first thought was her hair must be a mess, and her makeup a disaster. As she came to the fog lifted, and the memory of what happened rushed back to her conscious mind.

Carlo! Oh no!

Squeezing her eyes shut, tears dripped down her cheeks at the vision of Carlo trying to fend off three large men who broke into her home. Carlo was a strong man, in good shape, and knew how to take care of himself in a fight, but those men handled him like a child. She saw the surprised look on his face when his blows had no effect on their assailants. His last words still echoed in her mind.

“Sally, run! Get out of here!”

Reaching out, one of the men casually, almost nonchalantly, snapped Carlo’s neck. His eyes, wide in surprise, stared lifelessly back at her as he fell to the floor. Screaming, Sally ran for the gun Carlo kept hidden in her bedroom, but one of the attackers grabbed her by her hair, throwing her roughly to the floor.

“What do you want!? Who are you!?”

“Shut ‘er up before the neighbors hear.”

Cringing when the man’s big fist pulled back, she remembered the pain when he hit her, knocking her unconscious.

Her vision clearing, she looked around the room, appearing to be in a basement with bare cement walls and floor and an open wooden staircase leading up to a door. A low-watt bulb gave off what light there was, but the room was dim.

The floor, cold and damp, had water pooled across part of it. An unconscious man lay not too far away, partially in the water.

Sally jumped when a woman’s voice asked her softly, “Hey, are you alright?”

Taking in her surroundings, she saw a young woman with a little boy in her arms.  The woman looked terrified, and it was clear she and the boy had both been crying.  The little boy, his face red and splotchy, seemed wide awake and stared at her.

Putting a hand to her aching head, Sally groggily asked, “Where are we?”

“I don’t know. I think we’re in a house somewhere, but I’m not sure.”

Sally crawled into a sitting position, her body stiff and aching. Still crying, she couldn’t get the image of Carlo’s lifeless eyes out of her mind.

The woman asked her, “What’s your name?”

Sniffing, she swallowed, her throat tight with emotion, but managed to say, “Sally. Sally Bisel.”

“I’m Liz, Sally, and this is Drew.”

Nodding towards the unconscious man near the bottom of the staircase, Liz said, “I’m not sure who he is, but he’s hurt pretty bad.”

“What do they want with us?”

“I don’t know. We’ve been here a few days.  They threw him down here yesterday. He’s still breathing but hasn’t moved or made any noise. You’ve been here a few hours. Are you hurt?”

“I don’t think so.  Nothing broken anyway.”

Putting her head in her hands, Sally started crying again.

“Sally, come over by us. We need to get you warm.”

Crawling over, Sally sat with her back against the wall, her shoulder touching Liz’s. Liz put her free arm around Sally’s shoulder, chafing her skin in an attempt to generate some warmth.

Liz asked, “Do you remember how you got here?”

“Some men broke into my house and killed my boyfriend. They didn’t say what they wanted.”

Sniffing again, Sally wished she had a Kleenex.

“I’m so sorry, honey.”

Pulling Sally closer, Liz let her cry, continuing to run a hand up and down her arm.

Sally lost consciousness again for a time and when she woke, Liz and Drew were asleep. She had no idea how long she slept. The man on the floor still hadn’t moved.

Trying not to wake Liz, she crawled over to him. Dried blood covered his nose, mouth, and his short beard. Reluctant to try and move him, she was afraid of hurting him further. As severely beaten as he was, he might have broken bones or internal bleeding. She gently tried to wake him, but he was unresponsive.

Crawling back to Liz and Drew, Sally sat quietly, lost in thoughts as emotions ran through her mind, trying to process what was happening, and more than anything deal with the fact that Carlo was gone forever.

<><>  

A few hours later, the men who broke into Sally’s house returned, throwing another man roughly down the stairs. Sally noted immediately how large and muscular he was, just like her captors. He was also beaten nearly to death, his face and clothes covered in blood.

One of the men said, “That’s for old time’s sake, Hank.”

When the men left, Sally moved over to him, saying, “Here, let me help you.”

With her help, Henry pulled himself up and moved so his back rested against the wall. He wore a short-sleeve shirt over a wife-beater, and Sally helped him take his outer shirt off, using it to clean his face.

“My name’s Sally.”

“Henry. Thanks, Sally.”

One of Henry’s eyes was nearly swollen shut, and he had a deep laceration on his forehead. His bottom lip was torn, but the blood had clotted up. Sally felt sure he needed stitches. Sitting stoically, he didn’t react to her efforts to clean him up even though she knew he must be in a lot of pain.

“Do you know who those men are?”

“Yeah, I was forced to work for them for a while, until some friends helped me get away. Apparently, it’s not the kind of business you can walk away from.”

“How much trouble are we in?”

“You don’t want to know.”

“Do you know why they have us here?”

“I have a pretty good idea. Look, Sally, it’s probably better you don’t know, for all kinds of reasons. Trust me on that.”

They fell silent, each lost in their own thoughts. Sally was terrified, Carlo was dead, and she had no idea who the men were that took her or what they wanted, and Henry’s vague answers unsettled her even more.

<><> 

Sally wasn’t sure how much time passed before she heard footsteps on the floor above and the door opening at the top of the staircase. Terror suddenly gripped her; not the natural fear of what had already happened to her, but fear that touched her soul.

A large man came down the steps, followed by her two kidnappers. Her heart nearly stopped as he moved down the steps. At first she only saw his legs, and he had a strange gate to his movement. When he was far enough down, looking directly at him, she couldn’t see his face. His features were cloaked in a darkness her eyes couldn’t see through. She had never seen anything like it, and it terrified her.

He radiated evil.

For reasons she couldn’t fathom, Sally’s thoughts turned to Ken, Brad, and the other guys at TGH Securities she used to work with. She remembered the party, and the song Lane sang to Bryan. Instinctively, thoughts of them gave her comfort, and she wished with all her heart she had a way to reach them.

Standing at the bottom of the stairs, even though no one could see his face, he compelled them against their will to look at him. Amid the darkness surrounding his face were two darker spots, blacker than black, where his eyes should be.

When he gazed directly at Sally, she nearly threw up. Utter terror consumed her, and her body reacted, trembling uncontrollably and frozen to her core. She didn’t realize she wasn’t breathing until he looked away, releasing her, and air sucked into her burning lungs. Moving to the unconscious man on the floor, he spoke in an unnaturally deep voice.

“Greg.”

Greg twitched slightly, coughing and moaning as he tried to move, and the man chuckled.

“I think my servants were perhaps a bit… overzealous.”

Greg’s voice was weak and barely audible.

“Wh… what.. do you want f.. from… me?”

“I want you to tell me everything you know about some friends of yours. The men who helped you the night you planned to kill yourself.”

The cold presence of the man terrified Greg, petrifying him. As a defense his mind retreated, remembering the warmth that radiated off Ken, Brad, Rick, and Loy on a night not so long ago. The man standing over him exuded the exact opposite; his evil overwhelmed Greg merely by being next to him.

Greg remembered talking mind to mind with Loy and his new friends, and the feeling of openness and love they helped him achieve. He remembered the warmth and strength of Loy’s arm around his shoulder, and Ken’s hand rubbing his neck and back. The man’s aura tried to smother those feelings.

“W.. why don’t y.. you just t… take it. I kn… know you can.”

“Yes, I could. I could crush your mind and take everything, but the act of you betraying their trust is much more satisfying. If you don’t tell me everything I want to know, I will take you back to that place, to the bottom of that dark hole in your mind. I will re-tie the knots they loosened inside you, and I will tie them so tight your soul will choke, and every second of your life will be a misery. Then, I will let you live forever, and relish your cries as you beg for death and release.”

“F… fuck.. you a… asshole.”

Even though his voice was weak, Greg’s defiance was clear.

I’ll see you soon, Ely.

With blinding speed, The Master lifted Greg by his throat like a puppet. Greg’s feet dangled nearly a foot off the floor, his legs twitching and thrashing about. As terrified as Greg was, there was still a seed of strength in him; it wasn’t just a memory, it was something else. What his friends did for him that night was something The Master could not touch; it was magic, and it changed him forever.

The Master, his anger overpowering, took Greg back to that dark place and Greg’s mortal mind didn’t stand a chance. Screaming in physical and mental torment, for a brief moment, Greg was terrified and back in the bottom of the dark well he never wanted to be in again.  

However, Greg immediately felt them and knew he wasn’t alone. Their hands were on his back, their strong arms around his shoulders, and the warmth of their bodies surrounded him. Loy, Rick, Ken, and Brad were with him, touching him, holding him, and shielding him.

Greg suddenly realized Ken, Brad, Rick, and Loy, didn’t just throw him a lifeline that night. They crawled into that dark place with him and led him out. They were still present, the light and warmth of their unconditional love in him, and it was something The Master couldn’t take away. For all his power and evil, it was something he couldn’t touch.

The Master’s mind burned at what resided in Greg, but his scream wasn’t in pain, it was in anger and frustration.

How?!

Primitive rage railed in The Master as his clawed hand tightened in response, and the sound of Greg’s neck snapping echoed loudly in the basement. His anger deepened even further over his uncontrolled outburst, and he tossed Greg’s lifeless body against the concrete wall like a rag doll. Most of the bones in Greg’s frame broke on impact, and he crumpled to the floor.

Sally, Liz, and Drew jumped as Greg hit the wall. Henry, his face expressionless, stared at Greg on the floor, lifeless. The Master stood silent for a moment, breathing deeply and looking down at Greg before turning and going back up the steps.

In the silence that followed, Henry quietly said, “He got off easy. I don’t think we’ll be so lucky.”

Liz and Sally held one another but Drew unexpectedly pulled away from Liz, running to Greg. Crying, he put his little hands on Greg like he wanted to help.

“Mister? Are you okay?”

One of the protectors quickly moved over, grabbing Drew’s arm. As soon as his hand came in contact with Drew, time stopped and a voice filled his mind.

<>  

Be still, little one. I am with you.

I’m scared!  The bad man hurt him like my daddy used to hurt mommy and me.

I understand, and am frightened as well. You must listen and tell no one I am communicating with you. Do you understand?

Those men, like daddy; they’re bad.

If those men come for you, I can take you before they hurt you.

What about mommy?

No little one, I’m sorry, but only you. Your mind is open to me, and hers is not. If I wasn’t a prisoner, like you, I could do much more.

I’m not supposed to talk to strangers.

That is wise, child. But we have mutual friends, so we are not exactly strangers. The one you call ‘Iron Man’ and his friend Brad Wilson are cousins of mine. We must try to help them find us. Can you be brave and help me?

What if they hurt mommy? And the other pretty lady? Or the other man?

I will be honest little one… the evil men will, but not right away. If you help me, there is a chance we can escape before they hurt anyone else.

I’ll try.

Then listen, child, and here is what you must do...

<> 

The big man picked Drew up, dragging him back to Liz and tossing him roughly when he got close.

“Keep ‘yer brat in line!”

As soon as the man’s hand left Drew the voice stopped, but now he was connected to it and took comfort in that. Snuggling against Liz, he let her put her arm around him.

“Baby, you need to stay with me.”

“Okay, mommy.”

<><><>  

Climbing out of bed at their usual time, Brad and Ken did their PT but skipped weight training to save time. The cookout was at their house later that day, and they needed to do some last-minute shopping and cleaning.

Horny after their run, as they undressed to shower, Ken stared at Brad’s body, never tiring of looking at his lover’s muscled frame. To Ken, it was even sexier because Brad had to work so much harder to maintain his physique. After the last and final transformation, it was easier for Brad and the other mentalists, but they still had to put in the time and effort, and Ken was happy Brad did so.

Brad felt Ken’s eyes on him and bent over, clenching his ass cheeks.

In an instant, Ken went from mostly hard to fully hard.  

Grinning, Brad thought: Gotcha!

Moving behind Brad, Ken pulled him up and turned him around, bringing their warm bodies together. Both of them still sweaty, Brad inhaled deeply, smelling his lover. Ken’s scent, the heat of his body, combined with his touch, and seeing him so excited, put Brad’s own libido into overdrive. Hugging one another, they started kissing. No words were needed because they were in each other’s minds, hearts, and souls.

The hot water filled the bathroom with steam, fogging the mirrors. Separating, Ken kept hold of Brad’s hand, pulling them into the shower and closing the glass door. Taking their time, they washed each other, running their hands over each other, enjoying and taking pleasure in each other’s touch.

Soaping up and washing each other’s hair, they talked in their heads, enjoying the intimate emotional time with their souls tightly knit. Before rinsing off Ken reached down, lifting one of Brad’s legs.

Knowing what he was doing, Brad jumped and wrapped his legs around Ken’s waist. Catching him easily, Ken cupped his hands under Brad’s butt cheeks, kneading them briefly before spreading them apart and entering his lover.

Smiling, their foreheads pressed together, they kept eye contact as their physical pleasure matched the intensity of their minds and emotions.

Shifting their sight, their eye color changed; Brad’s crystal blue eyes ringed with the emerald green of Ken’s and vice versa, further evidence of their perfect blending and giving them an even greater feeling of connectedness.

Needing to get each other off for the boost in strength and mental ability, sex became a part of their morning ritual, sometimes tender and emotionally intense, and other times quick and primal.

With the physical bonding of their nervous systems, they achieved their orgasms simultaneously, continuing to hold each other until the water started turning cold.  They discovered long ago, the post-orgasmic cuddle was just as intimate and fulfilling as getting off.

 As they toweled each other dry Ken’s phone rang, and Brad’s stomach twinged in a cold knot.

You need to get that, Ken. It’s important.

Ken felt Brad’s reaction and hurried to the bedroom to get his phone. The caller ID said Bobby Simmons, owner of Simmons Security, the company they transferred all their clients to when they shut down their security firm a few months ago.

“Hey Bobby, this is Ken. What’s up?”

“Hey, Ken.”

The flat tone of Bobby’s voice told Ken he was holding his emotions in check.

“What’s wrong?”

“Ken, I’m not sure how to tell you this. I know she means a lot to you guys… us too, you know.”

“Has something happened to Sally!?”

“We aren’t sure yet, but she’s missing. Carlo is dead, his neck snapped clean. It looks like he was trying to protect her. They were definitely attacked.”

“Fuck!”

“We aren’t sure if she got away or if she was taken, but no one’s heard from her. There was no note. I figured you’d want to know right away.”

“Thanks for the heads-up, Bobby. We’ll be there in a few minutes.”

“It would be better if you didn’t.  The cops are being tight on this one and not letting anyone close.  I’ll call you once we know anything.”

“Ok, Bobby, thanks.”

Brad connected the entire team along with the doc and Albrecht in a flash. Scanning everyone on the surface to ensure no one was driving or doing anything dangerous, he created a construct of the conference room at the lab and pulled everyone in. Aside from appearing in full mission gear, the expression on Ken’s face told them it was something serious. Once everyone was present, Brad took them deeper so no time would pass. All eyes were on Ken as he stood at the lectern. Even through the Kevlar, they saw the tension in his arms as he gripped the edges.

Guys, I just got a call from Bobby Simmons. Sally’s missin’ and Carlo’s dead.

To get everyone up to speed Ken shared the memory of his phone conversation a moment ago. Fear for Sally’s safety and sadness over Carlo’s death universally ran through the link.

Brad asked: Doc, wasn’t Sally’s house warded to prevent something like this?

Yes, Bradford. I can only surmise that somehow The Enemy has found a way around our protections. It is very disconcerting if that is the case. I will check on our other friends immediately.

Alright doc, while you do that, the rest of us are goin’ ‘ta Sally’s house pronto. B, can you locate Bobby’s mind and get a good enough picture to teleport over?

I already found him.

Okay, fella’s, stay tight. I want us ‘ta be ready for anythin’ here, so Lane, Bry, and Loy keep the power flowin’.

<><>  

Brad disliked hitchhiking off of Bobby’s mind, but he didn’t have a choice with all the police around. Compelling Bobby to go behind the shed in Sally’s backyard to get away from prying eyes, as soon as he was out of sight Brad appeared in front of him.

Bobby, his face blank, didn’t register anything out of the ordinary. In another few seconds, the entire team appeared around him, and Brad sent Bobby back to the front yard with no memory of what just occurred.

Ken: Bill, you and Kev go into the house and see what you can pick up. Dar and Pat, go in with ‘em. Between Bill and Pat, we should get a clear picture of what happened. The rest of you stay alert and make everyone blind ‘ta our presence, at least for now.

<> 

As soon as Bill walked through the door his Avatar came to life, filling his mind with images. The impressions imprinted in Sally’s home were distinct and felt like her. Overlying those feelings was a cloud of violence and terror, strong because they were so recent.

A tape outline of Carlo’s body was on the living room floor, but to Bill, Carlo was still there, his eyes wide and lifeless.  As soon as he saw Carlo, the realization hit him that The Enemy was coming after them through Sally.

It only took a few seconds to read the impressions, and his Avatar coalesced everything into a vision of what happened.  Similar to Lane’s dreams, the emotions and atmosphere of everything became a part of him, and he shared it through the link with his teammates.

<> 

Sally and Carlo sat on the couch in the living room just before bed, happy, laughing, and starting to fool around. As they kissed, the front door burst open.

Carlo jumped up, but before he made it around the couch three large men, protectors of The Enemy, were on him.

They wore trench coats as usual, but each bore a pendant clearly visible around their thick necks, with unfamiliar runes that pulsed with dark energy.

A good fighter, Carlo immediately went on the offensive, attempting to quickly incapacitate the three attackers. Surprise and fear showed in his eyes when none of his blows had the slightest effect.

With a panicked look on his face, he shouted, “Sally, run! Get out of here!”

As soon as the words were out of his mouth, one of the men casually, almost nonchalantly, snapped his neck. His face showed surprise for a brief second before his expression went blank and he fell to the floor dead.

Screaming, Sally tried to make it to the gun Carlo kept in her bedroom, but one of the protectors grabbed her hair, yanking her to the floor.

“What do you want!? Who are you!?”

“Shut ‘er up before the neighbors hear.”

The one holding her hair pulled his arm back to slap her, and she flinched, putting up her hands to try and fend off the blow. Hitting her hard, he knocked her out.

Throwing her over his shoulder, he carried her out the front door.

<> 

Bill watched events play out as if he stood in the middle of the action with the figures moving around him. Sadness filled him when Carlo’s neck was broken, followed by anger when they hit Sally.

Feeling Carlo’s neck snap and Sally get knocked out, not just the physical sensations but the terror, pain, and emotions behind it all hit him, and he stood, tense and sweating as it became a part of him. Coming up behind him, Kevin wrapped his arms around Bill, loving him and trying to buffer the harshness.

With everyone tightly linked through Brad, everything Bill experienced became part of the team. Like Kevin, the guys wrapped him in their souls, supporting him, and the brightness in Bill’s eyes increased, this time not from pain, but from their emotional support and presence.

Seeing the pendants around the necks of the protectors through Bill’s Avatar, Pat Understood they were the reason the wards didn’t trigger or protect the house. The runes on the pendants were similar to their Avatars but new and in an unfamiliar configuration, and far more potent than any of the runes he learned from the doctor.

He Understood that as long as those men wore the pendants, much like Rick’s ability, they would be invisible to detection or location. If he could see one in person and not through a vision, he was sure his Avatar would tell him exactly what they were and how they worked.

The fact he picked up anything at all spoke to the potency of Bill’s Avatar, and how powerful it was.

<><>  

Lane stayed outside with everyone else, masking their presence from the local police. Experiencing the violence and loss of Carlo’s life was harsh, but he had a powerful sense there was something else… something hidden. Knowing what happened was helpful but they still had no clue how to find Sally, and The Enemy figured out a way to mask her presence from them.

Brad and Bryan both picked up on the tension in Lane.

Bryan: Lane, what’s up?

Brad: Are you sensing something else?

Lane: Guys, I’m not sure. I feel like there’s something we’re missing.

Ken: Bill, are you sure there’s nothin’ left ‘ta pick up?

Bill: Nothing related to what happened. There’s a lot here; this is usually a happy place, and underneath the violence it feels like Sally.

While they spoke in their minds everyone reconvened in the backyard.

Ken: Okay, Lane, do you have any ideas? If whatever you’re feelin’ is part of this we need ‘ta figure it out.

Unexpectedly Lane’s eyes turned white and he dropped to his knees with a confused look on his face. Bryan was at his side instantly, grabbing hold of him.

Bryan: Lane!

Putting his arms around Lane protectively, Bryan prepared to anchor him if necessary and brought the two of them together.

Lane: Give me a sec.

Wrapping his hands around Bryan’s forearms, he squeezed tightly as images flitted through his mind faster than he could absorb them. Going deeper with Bryan in an attempt to slow them down seemed to work, and his mind began assimilating what he was being shown. The Gift was at work, augmenting his Avatar. Once the images stopped he shook his head to refocus on the present, using Bryan’s stoic presence and the touch of his arms around him, the strength of his body and soul, to ground himself.

Lane: I love you, Bry.

Hugging Lane tighter for a second, Bryan withdrew his arms.

Bryan: I told you, you little shit, you aren’t going anywhere, at least not without me.

Lane’s face broke into a hint of a smile, not just from feeling Bryan against him but from what he now knew.

Lane: This is cool as shit. I’m not sure what’s going to happen, but here’s what we need to do. Brad, you need to open a portal through the veil. Can you do that? There’s something here associated with that, and we need an opening, even if it’s only for a second.

Brad: I’ll try Lane. I’ve never tried to keep it open, but I think Ken and I together can do it.

Lane: Loy, Darren, and Bill link with me. Brad, you too, if you can manage it while you’re working on the opening. Bry, Ken, Pat, Kev, and Rick, you all need to be linked and in a circle around us. Don’t ask me why, but that’s what we need to do.

On top of that we need some major juice, so me, Bry, and Loy need to do our thing and get us charged up. This needs to be slow and precise, not hard and fast, so let’s form the finest weave we can so the energy will dissipate as slowly as possible.

In the spiritual realm a giant ghostly image of the tree of life appeared, its trunk nearly a quarter-mile across with animal spirits flitting around its branches and swimming through the air. The sky above the canopy went dark, filling with stars as Lane, Bryan, and Loy wove the power into a fine net, holding it ready.

Lane placed Bryan and the other bodies in the order that seemed right to him and positioned himself, Brad, Loy, Darren, and Bill as well. Pat recognized the Pattern immediately, and the others picked up on it through him.

Each of them stood at a vector point of their primary physical and mental Avatars. It felt right, and when they were all in position the last piece of a puzzle snapped into place, revealing a picture that was there but unclear until that moment.

Brad, when the veil opens it will trigger whatever is going to happen. You all hang onto your hats and no one break position and run screaming like little girls.

Brad and Ken became one, their love and strength permeating the link, and even amid the circumstances, their handsome faces broke into smiles as their hands gripped each other tightly. Strongest when together, each couple merged as well. Ten became five, and five became one, and a bright rope of white power coursed through them, causing a hot wind to blow.

 Brad slipped himself and Ken out of the physical realm through the veil, attempting to stop halfway. Even though he wanted to stop, he slipped through. The veil wasn’t meant to stay open, and he fought against its nature. Pulling strength from Ken and the power stored inside them, steeling his will he managed to stop halfway through on his next attempt. The opening existed for the barest fraction of a second, and a silent explosion of light burst through and into all of them.

Their Avatars flared to life, binding together as power coursed through them.  Similar to the night of their first awakening when their nephilim heritage was brought forth, it created a circuit, making them stronger. Hot wind whipped at their clothing and blew the hair on their heads. In the center of it all, Lane’s body arched as he became the focal point of the forces channeling through them, and an image formed in his mind.

Istariel and his three cousins appeared seated back to back, their giant bodies stiff and covered in gray cowled robes with shackles binding their wrists and ankles. The chains looked like polished silver and were covered in runes.

A young boy, protectively cradled in Istariel’s arms, looked directly at Lane, slowly sitting up and raising an arm. A pendant dangled from his little fist, like the ones the protectors who took Sally wore.

He cried loudly, “Mister Ken! Mister Brad! Help!”

Istariel’s voice rang loud and strong in Lane’s mind: You must free us. When the child holds an amulet, you will have a small opening. Be diligent, or we will perish. There are others you know here with us. One of your friends has already been killed. I will do all I can to protect the child, but I can do nothing for his mother or the others. You must act quickly!

The veil shut and Brad and Ken returned to their bodies. As soon as it closed the power stopped flowing and Lane nearly collapsed, and all their eyes went from white back to their normal color.

A new sense of urgency filled them after seeing Lane’s vision. Istariel and their nephilim cousins were imprisoned as well as some of their friends!

Ken: Let’s get back to the lab pronto!

<><> 

Still full of power, it took little effort from Darren and the other mentalists to teleport them back to the lab where the doctor and Albrecht anxiously awaited their return.

Ken asked them, “So doc, what’d you find out?”

“Your former assistant, Sally Bisel, was not the only one taken. Henry Ross, the former protector Rick and Loy brought to us is missing as well. Liz Hastings, her son Drew, and Greg Rawlins all appear to be missing. I have not yet located the Keenans, but I fear for their well-being.”

Brad brought the doctor and Albrecht up to speed with everything that happened at Sally’s house.

His response was a quiet, “Oh, my.”

Brad asked, “Doc, how can The Enemy do these things? Imprisoning nephilim, especially one as powerful as Istariel? And those amulets? From everything I’ve learned these actions should be beyond their ability. What’s changed?”

“I am afraid, Bradford, they are receiving assistance from something or someone very powerful that wishes them to succeed. These new developments will require further study and thought as well as a new level of caution on our part.”

Ken spoke up, “Alright. We’ll definitely have ‘ta be more careful, but in the meantime, how do we wanna approach this ‘window of opportunity’ Istariel mentioned? We have no way of knowin’ when it will be and what’ll even happen.”

Brad said, “I think Lane, Bill, Loy, Dar, and I need to set up shifts around the clock, and scry Drew’s location. The doc and Albrecht showed us how to do it… they were protecting us from Taliesin and felt we’d need to know how to do it ourselves.

“It’s also entirely possible Lane’s Avatar will latch onto the event when it happens, and he’ll have a dream or a vision when it occurs, but we can’t count on that.”

<><><> 

Loud voices upstairs jolted Sally back to wakefulness. It sounded like a woman screaming but the sound was muffled, and she couldn’t be sure. Heavy footsteps stomping around indicated some kind of commotion. Liz and Drew were asleep but Henry sat wide awake, stoically silent and staring at the door.

The door at the top of the stairs opened and two of the big men came down, dragging an older black couple. The woman struggled like a wildcat, kicking and screaming, and the man, missing a leg below his knee, was off balance and trying to fight but wasn’t able to.

Taunting the woman, the man sneered, saying, “You got more spunk than your old man, that’s for sure. We’ll have fun with you later.”

Laughing, they shoved the old couple onto the concrete floor and went back upstairs.

Grabbing Olive, Tag asked her, “Baby, are you alright?”

“I ain’t hurt, but I won’t be alright ‘til we git outta here.” 

<>  

Sally was a smart woman. It only took a second for her brain to identify the old couple. She had never met them but was pretty sure she knew who they were.

Immediately she got up, saying, “Here, let me help you.”

It took some effort, but Sally and Olive managed to get Tag situated against the wall in a dry spot.

Once Tag was in place with Olive by his side, Sally held out her hand, “My name’s Sally. Are you the Keenans?”

Suspicious, Olive looked at her, asking, “How do you know our names?”

“You know my old employers. I read the file.”

Tag asked her, “You worked wit the boys? Rick ‘n Loy and the others?”

“I did until a few months ago. This can’t be a coincidence.”

Sally looked at Henry, who stared back at her.

“You know them too, don’t you? The friends you said helped get you away from these guys upstairs.”

“Yeah.”

Sally looked over at Liz and Drew.

“Do you know them too?”

“Who are you talking about?”

“The men who used to work at TGH Securities.”

Sally started listing their names, and as soon as she mentioned Brad and Ken, Liz said, “I know Brad Wilson and Ken Habersham. They helped me and Drew get away from my ex-husband last year.”

“Alright, well at least we know there’s a connection between all of us. I wonder who the man was they killed yesterday. I’m sure he knew them too. The guy in the suit called him Greg and wanted him to tell him something… betray some confidence. My guess is he’s going to want all of us to tell him what we know.”

Tag said, “Well, honey, you know dem boys is special. You must know all ‘bout ‘em if you worked wit ‘em.”

“What do you mean special? They’re great guys and ran a top-notch security business, but aside from that, there’s nothing special about them. They’re all ex-military, and cute… really cute, and all of them are sweethearts behind those big muscles, but that’s it.”

Tag chuckled and said, “Sugar, you must not know ‘em very well. Dem boys is something else. Not sure what they is, but it sure ain’t normal. They pulled me out of a jam and turned my life around. Gave me my life back so I could get my momma back.”

Reaching over, Tag patted Olive’s hand when he said that.

Henry spoke up, saying, “If you don’t know about that part of them, there’s a reason. Most likely they were protecting you to keep something like this from happening. Something must have gone wrong, or they finally pissed off the wrong people. I hope they’re ready.”

“Ready for what? What are you all talking about? What do you mean special? I don’t understand.”

Olive said, “They’s blessed child. They got the light in ‘em, and it shines bright. I felt it down in my soul that day they saved my baby. You can feel it when you’re around ‘em. I saw things that day you wouldn’t believe.”

Sally couldn’t believe what she was hearing. She loved the guys like goofy younger brothers, but there was no way what these people were saying could be true. Yet, her mind turned to the man in the suit… she had never felt anything like the fear that gripped her when he came down the stairs. The darkness around him was like something out of a horror movie, but real. Something strange was going on, and the guys were in the middle of it.

Regardless, she realized their best hope rested in trying to contact them for help. With their Special Forces training in the Navy they would be better equipped to handle her kidnappers. After seeing how those men dealt with Carlo like he was a child, she knew the police wouldn’t be much good against their abductors.

<><> 

Drew was scared… scared like he was of his father, Doug. It was the same fear inside him when he saw the bad man; only the bad man was worse. The bad man made Drew want to pee his pants, but he had to try and do what the tall man in the gray robes told him. He had to get a necklace off of one of the big men upstairs.

His young mind worked overtime trying to figure out how to accomplish his task. Barely four years old, Drew had already lived through horrible things in his young life, and his experiences hardened and matured him beyond his age. In dealing with his father, he sometimes had to take chances to prevent him or his mother from being hurt later. Those were painful memories, but he learned his lessons.

Looking at his mom, he saw she was asleep. Quietly disengaging himself from her side, he made his way to the small bathroom they used. The only person awake was the other man. He had big muscles like Mr. Brad and Mr. Ken. He looked tired… not the sleepy tired but the kind of tired on the inside. He heard the man tell Sally his name was Henry. Henry watched him as he made his way to the bathroom but didn’t say a word.

Drew used to make his daddy mad by stopping up the toilet. He never did it on purpose; he just liked to flush things and watch them disappear. There was a trash can in the bathroom with paper towels and wrappers in it. Turning on the water in the sink to make some noise, he put paper towels and cardboard wrappings in the toilet, and after a few flushes the water in the toilet bowl backed up.

Turning off the faucet, he opened the door to make his way back to his mommy. Henry sat still, watching him with a thoughtful expression.

As Drew passed close to him, Henry whispered, “Hey, kid. Come here.”

Drew stopped, moving over but keeping quiet. He wasn’t afraid of the big stranger and moved close enough so they could whisper to one another.

“What were you doing in there? Don’t do anything to piss these guys off. Don’t give them an excuse to hurt you or your mom or any of these other people. Do you understand?”

Since the day in the Mall, Drew’s mind had changed. Now, on occasion, he saw inside people and knew what they were thinking. Usually, they were adult thoughts that he didn’t understand, but he read emotions very well. Looking into Henry, he saw incredible hurt and suffering.

“I’m sorry, mister.”

Henry’s forehead creased in curiosity, and he asked, “About what?”

“For what they made you do. You were bad, but not on purpose.”

The shock of Drew’s words brought unexpected tears to Henry’s eyes. How could this kid know about that? Something was going on he didn’t understand.

Henry swiped at his good eye and asked, “What did you do in there? You can trust me, kid. I’m the only one here who has a chance of helping you. I promise I’ll keep it a secret. Just between us.”

Drew knew Henry was truthful and debated telling him about the tall man in the gray robes.

“I stopped up the potty.”

“Why did you do that?”

“I have to get upstairs.”

“Why?”

“I have to get one of the chains from around the bad men’s necks.”

“The pendants? Why? I’ve never seen those before, and I don’t know what they do.”

“They keep Iron Man from finding us. If I get one, he can find us.”

Henry’s face showed his confusion, and he asked, “How do you know that?”

“The tall man in the robes told me. He’s here too, but we can’t see him.”

“Tall man?”

“Uh-huh. I like him. He’s friends with Iron Man and Mister Brad.”

“When you say Iron Man, you mean Ken, right?”

“That’s what Mister Brad called him, but I know his secret.”

“Alright, kid, I’ll try to help you get a pendant. Be ready, and I’ll do what I can. Now go back to your mom.”

With no hesitation, Drew leaned forward, putting his little arms around Henry’s thick neck. Instinctively, Henry’s arms wrapped around Drew, patting his back. The sudden and unexpected show of affection caught Henry off guard, affecting him deeply.

To survive the ordeal of his time with The Enemy Henry had walled off his heart, shutting down his emotions. Drew’s hug cracked that wall, and a warmth Henry hadn’t felt in years crept back in. It felt wonderful, letting in a small bit of light in the dark place within him, but he was unprepared for it and didn’t know how to react. He sat still once Drew left him, wide-eyed and grappling with his emotions.

<><><>  

Alright, Dar, I’ll take over for a bit.

Thanks, Brad… man, I hope we get something soon.

Yeah, me too. Rest up, bud… we all need to be ready the second we get anything.

10-4.

Taking over from Darren, Brad focused on scrying for Drew and their friends. Scrying wasn’t difficult but required concentration, and after an hour his back and shoulders were tense and stiff.

Ken noted the tightness in him, not just reading his body language but through their connection. Moving over, he rubbed Brad’s neck and shoulders, working out the tension. Given the seriousness of the situation, neither one of them was in the mood to make out, but Ken wanted Brad to relax, especially with another hour left on his shift. Removing their shirts, Ken squeezed behind Brad in the chair, pressing them together, wanting Brad to feel the comfort of their skin touching while he continued kneading Brad’s neck and shoulders.

Hanging his head forward, Brad said, “Man, that feels good, Ken, thanks.”

“Just relax and keep doin’ what you’re doin’ B. My job right now is ‘ta keep you relaxed and ready for whatever’s about ‘ta happen. If it’s too distractin’ let me know.”

Brad chuckled under his breath.

“Little chance of that. Just keep it up, my upper back and shoulders are killing me.”

<><><> 

Drew cuddled against Liz, who was still asleep. A full bladder woke her, and she gingerly dislodged Drew from her side.

Sally was awake and quietly told her, “Here, I’ll hold him until you get back.”

“Thanks.”

Liz made her way to the bathroom and noticed water on the floor right away, and the bowl full. She had to go pretty bad, so she made her way to the steps. Unsure how her request would be met, Liz took a deep breath and went up far enough to knock on the door. She stepped back immediately, not wanting to be within arms-reach when the door opened. It only took a second, and the doorframe was filled with the menacing presence of one of the big muscular men.

“What the hell do you want?”

“The toilet’s stopped up and I have to go.”

“Pee on the floor.”

“Do you really want the place to smell? You’ll have to deal with it too, and probably clean it up. Couldn’t you just let me come up quick?”

Agitated, he closed the door and a short, muted discussion took place, but Liz couldn’t make out the words. A few seconds later the door opened again.

“Alright, but you’re all gonna go. Women first, then the boy and the two men. Hurry it up.”

Everyone except Drew listened intently to the exchange, expecting something bad to come of it, and were surprised at the easy compliance to her request.

Liz wondered when Drew went over and stood beside Henry without being told.

Looking at her, Henry said, “I’ll keep an eye on him, don’t worry.”

The ladies went, and once back and away from the stairs, the man said, “Alright, now the men.”

Looking at Henry, Tag said, “You look like a sturdy fella. It would be easier if’n you could carry me. Once we is up top, I can make it on my own.”

“No problem, old fella. Up and at’em.”

Leaning over, Henry lifted Tag effortlessly into a fireman’s carry. Even though he was no longer controlled by The Enemy, the physical changes in Henry were permanent, and he didn’t even feel Tag’s weight.

Starting up the stairs, Henry glanced back at Drew and said, “Stay close to me, kid.”

He winked, hoping to clue Drew in that this might be the chance they talked about. Looking at Henry, with an almost adult-like look on his young face, Drew gave a nearly imperceptible nod of understanding.

Henry knew he should be scared or nervous, but his mind was clear and calm. If he helped Drew get a pendant, there was every reason to think he would die in the process. His life a wreck, and memories of the unspeakable atrocities he committed in servitude to The Enemy still haunted him. His time with The Order and talking with Dr. Thomas helped give him some solace, and he learned to cope with the memories. The nightmares had stopped at least; well mostly.

As Henry saw it, his current situation was a means to atone for his life. Maybe that was why he was so calm. Deep in his heart, he knew if he could help Drew and save these people by sacrificing himself, it might make up for his past.

As fate would have it, he didn’t have to sacrifice himself. Once they got to the door of the bathroom, Henry set Tag down. Tag was alright for a second, but the blood had rushed to his head from hanging over Henry’s shoulder, and as soon as he stood upright he got dizzy and started to pass out.

Reaching out to steady himself, the closest person to Tag happened to be their guard, the protector Henry knew as Dale Evans. As Tag reached out Dale moved back with a cruel sneer on his face, willing to let Tag fall. Tag’s fingers caught at the chain around Dale’s neck, and the clasp came undone from the weight of his body.

Dale’s expression quickly turned to panic as the pendant started falling to the floor. With inhumanly fast reflexes Henry grabbed the charm before Dale moved, and his other hand wrapped around Dale’s throat. Shoving the pendant into Drew’s waiting hands, as soon as it touched Drew’s skin his eyes turned white.

<><> 

Brad felt it immediately. Just like in the Mall of Georgia all those months ago, Drew’s cry shouted in his mind.

Mister Ken! Mister Brad! Help us!

At the speed of thought, Brad pulled the team into a construct of the lab, taking them so deep that Time nearly stood still.

Everyone looked at him expectantly.

“Drew has a pendant!”

Already at the lectern, Ken continued, “Alright guys, just like we planned. Everybody merge as couples and then as a group. Me, Bry, Pat, Kev, and Rick link our Avatars. B, you and the others do the same. Kevin, with our backin’, will mask us so whoever is in the house won’t know we’re talkin’ ‘ta Drew.”

<> 

Greetings again, Brad Wilson.

Istariel’s voice seemed faint and far away.

Istariel? Where are you?

Trapped, bound within a pendant. My cousins and I are the reason The Enemy is able to mask their presence from you. Our essence powers their charms. The four amulets together make a powerful matrix. The boy now holds the one I am imprisoned in. His mind is somehow open, and I am able to talk to him when he is in contact with the pendant, or one who wears it.

Drew? Can you hear me, buddy?

Mister Brad?

Yeah, bud! You’re such a brave little man! Ken is with me and some other friends. We’re going to get you out of there.

Gently, Brad scanned Drew’s memories seeing everything that happened; Greg’s death, Sally, Liz, Tag and Olive, and his conversations with Istariel and Henry.

Drew, I need you to turn around and touch Henry and the man he’s fighting. Do it quick, alright? Can you do that for me?

<> 

Tag lost consciousness, falling to the bathroom floor and out of sight for the moment. Luckily his head hit the mat in front of the sink, and he would probably have a black eye but nothing more serious.

Holding Dale by the throat, Henry squeezed as tightly as he could to keep Dale from making any noise and alerting the others. Showing the strain, cords in Henry’s neck and arm were clearly visible as he brought all his formidable strength to bear. His body severely bruised, the effort was excruciating, but he used the pain as a focus, pushing with everything in him.

Henry was shocked when Drew’s eyes turned white, and the expression on his face changed from flushed fear to a calm, peaceful mien. Quickly reaching out, Drew touched Henry and Dale.

Dale stopped struggling immediately, and the presence of his friends surged into Henry’s mind.  Their souls were like a hot wind against his own, similar to the feeling of Drew’s hug but far more potent. Henry’s breath caught in his chest, his eyes watering at the unexpected emotion, and a stunned expression came over his face.

Breaking the shield over Dales mind, Brad took control of him. With their Avatars linked, similar to how the pendants worked, Kevin masked their auras, keeping their presence hidden from anyone in the house.

Brad: It’s okay, Henry, I have Dale now.

Stunned, Henry blinked, unsure if he felt relief or regret. He had worked himself up to the point where he was willing to sacrifice himself to help Drew and the others, half hoping he would have died. It would have been a relief after all he had been through.

Ken: Henry, it’s alright, man. You’re a hero. Don’t do anythin’ foolish. We need you on the inside ‘ta keep everyone safe ‘til we get there. Brad’s in control of Dale now. You can let go.

Loy, the one who freed Henry from the mental shackles that kept him subservient to The Enemy, saw Henry’s thoughts and what he was going through. Loy’s arms wrapped around Henry, not only his body but his heart and soul, holding him tight. Deep in Henry where his soul resided, their hands were on his back or around his shoulders, embracing him along with Loy.

Loy: You’re a good man, Henry. I’m sorry you got mixed back up in this, but you’ve come so far. You know deep down you aren’t responsible for what you did. By risking yourself to help these strangers, you’ve proven what kind of man you are. We can help you be that man, but you have to hang on just a little longer.

Dale stood under Brad’s control, just as one of the other guards stuck his head out from the kitchen. Everything looked in order, so he went back to whatever he was doing.

Brad learned everything he needed to know through Dale’s mind from the address to the floorplan of the house. He was not happy to discover The Master was staying in the house with his prisoners.

To Henry, Drew, and Istariel, Ken thought: Alright guys, we’ll be there as soon as we can. Dale won’t remember any of this. Henry, do what you can ‘ta keep everyone safe. Drew, you‘re awesome little man! You’ve been really brave, and I’m proud of you. It would be best if you don’t tell the others we’re comin’, not even your mom. We need everyone ‘ta act the same, so the guys upstairs won’t be suspicious. Our goal is ‘ta get you all out safe. We don’t want a confrontation unless there’s no other choice.

Turning to Drew, Dale reached down to take the pendant. Henry lightly slapped Tag’s face, waking him and helping him stand. Brad waited until everyone had gone to the bathroom and were back in the basement before he had Dale put the pendant back on, breaking his hold, but the compulsion to forget everything was already in place.

<>  

Anxiety levels were high. The Master could kill another of their friends at any time, but a full-on assault was out of the question. They still didn’t know enough about The Master to risk a direct confrontation. Stealth was their best option, and they needed to wait until dark.

Reconnoitering the house and grounds showed several hi-tech security cameras at vantage points that thoroughly covered the property.  Rick’s Avatar synchronized with Ken, Bryan, Pat, and Kevin to keep their auras masked, and the mentalists blocked any scrying attempts against them, so they were confident The Enemy had no awareness of their presence.

When they arrived The Master’s Escalade wasn’t in the driveway, which was a relief. While there was a strong desire to see him in person, at the same time, it was better that he wasn’t there. Everyone wore full assault gear to help with any stray bullets in case there was gunfire.

The first step was taking care of the security cameras without alerting anyone inside. Loy called birds to perch on top of the cameras, looking through their eyes to attain a clear visual of the yard from each vantage point. Then with Pat and Darren’s Avatar’s, they set a static image on the lens of each camera.

Large, full hedges bordered the front and sides of the house, providing complete cover once against the house. The only thing preventing Darren or the other mentalists from teleporting into the basement was the lack of a clear visual, which they couldn’t get while the pendants concealed the minds and presence of their friends.

Calling a chipmunk living in the hedges, Loy sent it through an unused laundry ventilation duct that fed into the basement.

No one noticed the tiny creature as it exited the pipe, skittering along the floor to the dark area behind the stairs. The perspective was slightly off because of how tiny the animal was, but it was enough for Darren to use to teleport inside. He didn’t have a full view of the basement, but there were no protectors there at the moment. The area was silent to the tiny ears of the chipmunk, and he saw Olive and Tag asleep, and the legs of someone else.

Darren appeared, soundless and nearly invisible in the shadows. Gently picking up the chipmunk, he teleported it back to Loy using Pat’s eyes to see where he sent it.

I’m in guys. Let me get them ready.

Removing his headset, Darren pulled back his face covering. Quickly scanning the room, he didn’t see any cameras and made his way to Sally, who was asleep. Lightly touching her shoulder, he woke her up.

She jumped slightly, and her eyes opened to see Darren’s handsome, dimpled face smiling at her, holding a finger to his lips indicating silence. Tears of relief filled her eyes, and she threw herself into his arms, squeezing him with desperate strength. She trembled so harshly he could feel it even through his suit.

Whispering, he said, “Hey, beautiful. Sorry, it took us a while to find you, but we’re here.”

“Darren, oh my God… thank goodness you’re here. Where’s everybody else?”

“They’ll be here in a second. I need to get you and the others up and awake. Can you help me with that? Everybody needs to be as quiet as possible, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Hey, Sally?”

Turning to face him she saw the look in his eyes, and he said, “I’m sorry about Carlo. I know this isn’t the place to talk about it, but I have to say it.”

Nodding her acknowledgment, more tears fell.  She wasn’t sure she could speak, so she lowered her head and took a deep breath, squeezing his hand in thanks.  Sally woke Liz and Drew, and Darren woke Henry, Olive, and Tag.

Huddled together against the wall, Darren whispered, “Alright, I need you to stay calm. Some of you have seen some crazy shit around us, and some of you haven’t. Don’t be alarmed or scared… the rest of the team is going to appear down here.”

Sally remembered what Olive and Tag said about her friends, but her curiosity overpowered her fear and anxiety.

Okay, guys, everybody get ready. I’m your anchor. Send the fat asses first.

Darren, still linked with everyone, became their eyes and his Avatar synchronized the teleport. Brad, Lane, Bill, and Loy pushed Ken, Bryan, Kevin, Rick, and Patrick through one by one. Patrick was first so he could be close to Darren. Ken was next, and the rest followed. As soon as one of them appeared, they moved out of the way, joining the huddled captives.

Being extra cautious, they decided to go in one by one rather than all at once to keep the power expenditure minimal.  Even with their auras masked, they couldn’t be too careful.

Sally’s eyes nearly popped out of her head when Darren’s eyes turned white, and Patrick’s big frame appeared out of nowhere. She was confused by what she saw; how was it even possible? She knew these men and had worked with them for years. How could they have kept something like this a secret all that time?

Monitoring their thoughts, Darren made sure no one would do anything unexpected that might alert the protectors upstairs. Reading Sally’s confusion and emotions, he gave her his most disarming smile, winking at her. 

“Pretty cool, huh? I promise we’ll explain all this once you’re safe.”

If Sally knew Darren could hear her thoughts, it might terrify her even more, and he couldn’t stand the thought of her being afraid of him or any of the guys.

As soon as Drew recognized Brad and Ken, he ran to them, throwing his arms around them.

Ken picked him up and Drew whispered in his ear, “I knew you’d come.”

Teary-eyed, Ken said, “Nothing could ’a kept me away, Drew. I’m really proud of you. You’re a hero, little man; we wouldn’t have been able ‘ta find you if you weren’t so brave.”

Forming a protective circle around their friends, the guys crouched so they could talk quietly.

Ken said, “We’re sorry it took so long ‘ta find ya’ll, and we’re sorry this happened. We’re gonna get you outta here, and then we’ll explain more about what’s goin on. Don’t be scared, but we’re gettin’ you out the same way we got in. It’ll seem strange, but it’s perfectly safe. Two men will greet you when you appear. Some of you have met the doc and Albrecht before. If you haven’t, you’re in for a real treat. They’ll keep you safe until we get back.

“Liz and Drew, you’ll go first. Are you ready?”

Liz nodded, wide-eyed and scared but ready to get out of that place and get Drew to safety.

Looking distraught, Drew whispered, “Wait! We can’t leave him!”

He pointed to Greg’s body, which one of the guards had dragged into a corner and thrown a tarp over.

Squatting at eye level with Drew, Ken said, “Thanks, Drew. We never leave friends behind. We’ll get Greg, don’t worry.”

Drew nodded and took Liz’s hand.

Picturing his safe spot in the lab, Darren synchronized their Avatars and Sally and Drew disappeared.

Olive’s hand went over her mouth, and she said, “I swear I’ll never git used ‘ta seein’ you all do what you do.”

Tag chuckled, saying, “Dem’s my boyz.”

Ken said, “Okay, Tag, you’n Olive are next, then Sally, then Henry.”

Henry asked, “Do you want me to stay and help?”

“No, if everythin’ goes accordin’ ‘ta plan we’ll be right behind you. Tonight is about stealth and safety, not retaliation, but thanks for the offer. You did good tonight, Henry.”

Reaching out, Ken squeezed Henry’s shoulder in appreciation.

“You made it possible for Drew ‘ta get that pendant and risked your life doin’ it. Don’t be hard on yourself.”

The warmth of Ken’s touch and the emotion behind his words caused another crack in the wall around Henry’s heart. His eyes watering, he wasn’t sure he could talk, so he nodded his acceptance. Seeing his emotional state, the guys closest to him put their hands on his back or shoulders in thanks and comfort. It hurt, but it was a good hurt, and he took a deep breath to regain his composure.

In another few seconds, Sally, then Henry, vanished, and all of them were safe in the lab with the doctor and Albrecht.

Lane and Bryan wrapped Greg more securely in the tarp and found some rope to keep it tightly bound. When they were done, Darren sent the body to the lab.

They remained silent a few seconds out of respect for their friend who died at the hands of The Enemy, his only crime being their friend. The thought of Greg’s death renewed their anger at the situation and sadness at the life that was snuffed out just as he was building a new one.

Alright ladies, we need ‘ta get those amulets. Hopefully, the doc’ll know how ‘ta free Istariel and the others without hurtin’ ‘em.

Darren: If we can get a visual on the amulets, any one of us can teleport them to us.

Brad: Darren, you and I will go upstairs and get them. Once the pendants are off, I can hold them until we’re ready to leave.

Without saying anything, Ken and Pat went upstairs with Brad and Darren. Ken quietly twisted the lock on the door until it opened, and they silently moved into the hallway. A TV in the living room and someone talking in the kitchen covered any noise they made.

Ken: There are two in the livin’ room and two in the kitchen. Get ready.

Kneeling at the edge of the kitchen door, Brad slowly eased forward until he could see the two men. One of them noticed him, but as he made eye contact it was too late to react. The pendants appeared in Brad’s hand, and he broke their shields, immobilizing them at the speed of thought.

Two down.

It took minimal effort to hold the two men once he was in control. The thought crossed his mind, and also Ken’s, that not so long ago what they were doing wouldn’t have been so easy. It wasn’t without effort, but he was so much stronger than he used to be it was more than doable. Without Enemy ‘suits’ backing them up, the protectors were easily controllable.

The two men in the living room didn’t have a chance. Their backs were to the kitchen, watching TV on the couch. Brad grabbed their minds once Darren held their pendants.

A few seconds before anyone else, Brad sensed the cold presence of The Master.

He’s back.

As Brad sent his thought, the bodies heard a car pulling into the driveway.

Brad created an illusion in the protector’s minds of still wearing the pendants and that everything was normal in the house.

Ken: Okay everybody, let’s evac fast. We’re on our way back ‘ta the basement, and we’ll all go together.

Lane’s eyes flashed white, and his mental voice assumed an otherworldly quality: We can’t go yet. Something else has to happen.

Ken: Lane, what the fuck are you talkin’ about? We aren’t ready ‘ta face him yet.

Lane: Remember the skull…

Brad made the connection immediately.

Bill! Oh shit! He wanted Bill dead because of his Avatar. Bill can find out who he is!

<> 

Greetings, Darren Wilcox. I reside in the pendant you now hold. Use them. Merge your soul with your partner and place a pendant around your neck. Have the others do the same. With Kevin Ayers Avatar, he and William Brennan will not require one. Even The Master will not be able to sense you.

Guy’s, Istariel says we can use the pendants to keep The Master from knowing we’re here! Kevin’s Avatar is primary for staying masked so he and Bill won’t need one. He says if the rest of us merge as couples and the mentalist wears a pendant, it will mask us.

Ken: Fuck!

Brad: We might not get another chance like this, Ken.

Ken: Okay, guys. B’s right, but let’s take as little risk as possible. We know virtually nothin’ about him yet, other than he’s spiritually and psychically supposed to be badass. He might be stronger than us physically, too, at least one on one.

Bill: I only need to touch him, Ken.  As powerful as he is, I’m not sure what it’s going to do to me. Kev, if I black out, be ready to grab me.

Ken: Lane, get ready ‘ta give us a burst of power.

Lane: Ready, boss.

Ken: Alright, ladies, here’s the plan…

<><>  

As soon as The Master entered the house, he went to the main bedroom to meditate. Try as he might, he had a difficult time centering his thoughts.

Something was wrong.

An itch in the back of his mind was slight, but there.

Ever since the new warriors of The Order destroyed his Amalgam, the source of his extra power for traveling outside of time, he felt blind. While he could still travel, the effort was prohibitive. He continued for nearly an hour before he let out a barely audible grunt of frustration. He didn’t like that sound… it reminded him too much of… before.

Frustrated, he got up and went into the living room. As soon as Dale Evans turned to face him, The Master noticed the absence of the pendant, and with barely a thought he broke the illusion Brad placed in the minds of his servants. Their pendants vanished, and his servants realized they had somehow been tricked.

“You fools!”

Rushing down the hallway to the basement door, with a casual brush of his arm the door splintered, breaking apart. Once the pieces settled, silence fell. There was no sound from the prisoners he knew were no longer there.

Anger gripped him; rage like he hadn't felt since the night he called all his forces to destroy The Order and failed. The night Istariel and the other nephilim invoked the Four Corners of creation, intervening to save them.

Moving down the steps with incredible agility, his servants followed.  He felt their fear, but loyalty kept them at his side.

Dale was the only one brave enough to speak.

“Sir, how? We didn’t hear anything. We’ve had the pendants on the entire time just like you said.”

In response, the Master's eyes flashed black, and the three men dropped dead.

“You really need ‘ta quit doin’ that, or you’re gonna run outta help. It wasn’t their fault.”

Whipping his head around, The Master saw Ken and Brad, backed by six other members of the team. He had never seen them in person, only in his dreams. The missing pendants hung around their necks, and he couldn’t sense their presence.

None of them knew what to expect when they finally saw The Master in person. He was big, and their vision couldn’t penetrate the darkness hiding his face. A cold evil radiated off him, sending a chill down their spines.

The darkness covering his head prevented them from seeing the scowl on his face. Their physical perfection evoked an unforgiving sense of hatred in him. They wouldn’t exist if it weren't for him! It wasn’t fair; they were so handsome and flawless while he remained so… primitive!

Shoving those thoughts aside, he was confident in his ability to defeat them. Let them do their best and see how they fared. He would let them play their little game a few moments more. Embracing the darkness ruling his heart, he let them feel the strength of his aura. None of the guys showed any outward sign of the immense pressure against their shields.

Hold tight, fellas. He’s feelin’ us out. Go deep and fight this off. We aren’t attackin’, but we aren’t givin’ an inch either. Let him play his game, and let’s show him what we’re made of.

Everyone did as Ken instructed, and holding each other tighter, their light shone brighter. In the spiritual realm the two powers clashed, black against white, and thunder echoed across the clear night sky as the physical realm mirrored the confrontation.

“So, we finally meet.”

His voice was deep, and he spoke in barely a whisper.

“Where are the rest of you?”

“Makin’ sure our friends are safe.”

“I so wished to meet all of you. Your reputation precedes you. It's a shame you weren’t in time to save your friend Greg. The absence of his life is but one small sting you will feel. You may have rescued the others, but they are not beyond my reach forever. There are others in your lives as well, your past lives you know nothing about, but I do, and they will also perish, horribly and painfully, not even knowing why.”

“We’ll see about that.”

“False bravado, from the leader of fools. You have no idea who or what I am… How can you ever hope to defeat me? I am beyond any of you.”

Ken moved forward, stopping just out of arm’s reach. The Master wasn’t scared, but he was cautious. Ken’s green eyes stared at him. Under his Kevlar, Ken’s Avatar glowed brightly, filling his words with conviction.

“One of your flunkies said the same thing right before my badass boyfriend kicked his ass. We didn’t come here ‘ta fight you tonight. We came ‘ta rescue our friends, but I want you ‘ta know we aren’t afraid of you, and we are gonna take you down.”

As soon as Ken moved forward to distract The Master, Bill and Kevin, masked by Kevin’s Avatar, stealthily moved forward. The Master's hearing was exceptional, as was his sense of smell, but Bill and Kevin were highly trained SEALS and experts at moving silently.

By the time he sensed someone behind him, it was too late. Bill’s hands reached out, grabbing The Master’s face from behind. Through the smoky nimbus Bill touched his rough, ruddy flesh.

As soon as their skin connected, Bill’s Avatar exploded with light and color as the knowledge of eighty thousand years flooded into his mind. He went stiff, and Kevin grabbed him.  Attempting to spin around, Ken grabbed one of The Master’s arms with all his strength.

The Master knew immediately what had happened. His body flexed, shredding his clothing as he howled his anger. The black power of his aura exploded, nearly overwhelming them and throwing them back in a torrent of darkness.

Even though they were ready for his reaction, they barely held on. Lane listened, channeling the first thing he heard, sending a burst of power into all of them. It was enough for them to gather, and Darren synchronized his Avatar with the other mentalists, taking them to the lab.

The Master went berserk, tearing the bodies of his already dead servants apart. The primitive anger he struggled to control took over, and he destroyed everything in the house before he got it under control.

<><><> 

The doctor and Albrecht were worried. After Greg’s body materialized, the team should have followed immediately. It was nearly an hour before they appeared, with Bill barely conscious in Kevin’s arms.

Relief ran through their mentors when their young charges finally arrived, but the doctor knew something significant must have occurred to delay them, and seeing Bill nearly unconscious he surmised what happened.

Kevin had Bill wrapped in his arms, holding him tightly. Bill’s tattoo glowed so brightly it was visible through his Kevlar, and Kevin sent him all his strength to cope with what his Avatar processed. Everybody gathered around, all merged and in a protective circle around Bill and Kevin, lending their strength but not intruding on what was happening.

When they arrived, the sound of their voices alerted Liz, Drew, and the others, and Drew ran out of his room, yelling, “Mister Brad, Mister Ken!”

Flying up to Ken, he wrapped himself around one of Ken’s legs.

Reaching down, Ken lifted him up, saying, “Hey buddy! We’re back!”

Liz, Sally, Henry, Tag, and Olive all came over, hovering around them with concerned looks on their faces.

Crying, Sally held a crumpled tissue in her hand, but concern for Bill snapped her out of her grief, and she rushed over to him. Now that her friends were back, she sensed something about them. The love between them, unshielded in the lab, affected all the humans in the room.

The glow of their auras touched Sally and the others, affecting her in a way she had never experienced. Her love for Carlo paled in comparison to what emanated from her friends. The realization that she really didn’t know them like she thought increased her feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially with Carlo’s absence.

Hurt and confused, she was unsure what to think. The evil she confronted in the basement of that house, the men she thought she knew but realized she didn’t, the death of her future husband, it all spun in her mind and she didn’t know what to feel or how to act. Brad picked up on her thoughts immediately and went over to her.

“Come here, hun.”

Folding her into his arms, he hugged her, resting his chin on the top of her head.

“I’m so sorry, Sally.”

Breaking down, she sobbed quietly in his arms, and each of the guys put a comforting hand on her, expressing their care and concern.

“We’re still the same guys, you know. Yeah, there have been changes, but there’s no need to feel like we’re strangers.”

“How do you know what I’m thinking?”

This might be rushing things, Sally, but I think it will help. Ken and I go much deeper, and you aren’t ready for that yet, but I want you to know how much we love you as a person and friend, and how sorry we are about Carlo. We’ll do whatever we can to help you get through this and make sure you’re safe.

At first, Sally didn’t realize Brad’s voice was in her mind. Her confused expression quickly turned to wonder as Brad opened her mind, bringing her into a light link with all the guys. She heard their voices, and more importantly, felt their emotions and love for her. Their regret over Carlo was clear to her, and how happy they had been for her when she found him. She felt the strength of their love for one another, which caused fresh tears, but this time they weren’t tears of grief.

One thing I want you to know, Sally, beyond anything else, is that you never have to be afraid of us. We love you like a sister, and we’ll do anything to protect you. This is all new and strange, but don’t be afraid, and if you have any concerns or questions, come to one of us immediately, alright?

Unable to talk, she could only nod her head in agreement. Brad hugged her a little tighter and let her out of his arms to give everyone else a chance to express their affection.

By the time she got to Bill he felt somewhat better, but he still looked shaken. Once she thought about it, Sally realized in all the time she knew them, none of them had ever been sick.  Bill was sweaty and pale, but his smile for her was genuine and not forced or strained.

“Bill, what happened? Are you alright?”

“I’m fine, Sally. I sort of got the wind knocked out of me, but I got what we needed.”

“I’m glad you’re alright. After Carlo, I don’t know what I’d do if anything happened to one of you guys, too.”

“No worries there, girl, we’re here to stay. Are you going to be okay?”

Sighing, she fought back fresh tears at his question, saying, “I’m not sure, Bill. I think so, but this is a lot to take in, and I don’t really know what I’m involved in, and what’s going on other than Carlo is gone.”

Taking her hand, Ken said, “Sally, this isn’t the time ‘ta talk about things. You need ‘ta rest and not worry about this other stuff right now. We’ll explain what we’re able when you’re feelin’ better.”

“Okay, Ken, but I’m going to hold you to that mister, and don’t you think for one second I’m going to forget you said that.”

Putting on his most disarming grin, he replied, “No ma’am, I won’t forget.”

“Oh Lord, Ken, if you were straight that smile would melt any woman’s heart, but I have your number, so don’t even try that with me.”

In all the time they worked together, Ken rarely pulled the wool over her eyes, and he chuckled.

Before he could continue their banter, the doctor interjected, “May I have your attention, please? I need our guests to return to their rooms for a short time. I apologize, but there is some urgent business we need to attend to, and I must see to William.”

Liz collected Drew, and all of them walked back towards the guest rooms the doctor had prepared for them. As they were moving, Ken used his ‘Captain’s voice’ so everyone would hear.

“I’m sure the doc said this already, but I want you ‘ta know you’re safe here. I know we said it before, but this is one place they can’t come. We’ll figure all this out, but in the meantime, try ‘ta rest as best you can. I’m sorry you had ‘ta go through this experience.”

As they went back to their rooms, Ken noticed Liz motion for Henry to join her. He hesitated at first but then went in with her and Drew.

Brad: Interesting. That wouldn’t be a bad thing for the two of them to get together. They’ve both been through so much shit, they could be a huge help to one another, and Drew could sure use a strong father figure. That could be just what Henry needs to give him a reason to live.

Ken grinned as he thought: Alright, matchmaker. First off, Bill, how are you, bud? You shouldn’t be blockin’ yourself, what’s the deal?

Sorry, Ken, I’m still assimilating everything. My Avatar’s working overtime, and it’s not finished yet. I don’t want to expose any of you before it’s finished, in case we have another incident like with the skull. Kev’s monitoring me just to be careful.

Pat interjected: At the rate his Avatar is going, it will be hours before it’s finished.

Ken: Alright. This is uncharted territory for us… it proves just how old’n powerful that mofo is that it’s takin’ this long for your Avatar to process things.

Brad: I have an idea on how to speed it up. I don’t think it would be dangerous to Bill or us to try.

Lane: I know where you’re going, Brad. I think that would be badass. We should try it.

Ken: This is your department, guys. If you think it’s safe, I don’t see any harm in tryin’. The more we know about The Master, and the sooner, the better.

Bill, Loy, and Darren picked up the plan from Brad and Lane.

The spontaneous ritual Lane had them perform in Sally’s backyard gave Brad the idea. They were spiritual beings as much as physical and hadn't yet explored much of their metaphysical side, but the ritual proved that together, and probably individually on a smaller scale, they could perform actions outside the scope of their Avatars.

Alright, guys, this will be similar to what Lane had us do in Sally’s backyard. Me, Lane, Loy, Bill, and Dar will arrange ourselves in the pattern of Bill’s Avatar with Bill at the center position.

Sending them a mental image of where they should stand, he continued.

Now, Ken and you other yahoos form a circle around us. Each group of five merge together first, and then we’ll all join as a group. It’s a little different than we usually do it, so no one get your panties in a wad.

Bill, you take control of synchronizing our Avatars with yours and once we’re all linked, pull from us. Think of it like adding more CPUs to a computer.

Once in position, Patrick thought: Brad, you’re spot on as usual. Now that we’re in place I can see the purpose and connection behind it. This is going to work.

Alright, guys, let’s do this. Bill, you ready?

I was born ready.

A collective groan followed Bill’s old and overused pun, but they still laughed. Each group of five merged first, and once fully together, Brad coordinated the merge between the two groups, and it was like two perfect puzzle pieces snapping seamlessly into place. Bill’s Avatar naturally synchronized with the other mentalists, but with the ten of them as one in the pattern of his Avatar, a silent explosion of light followed and his Avatar expanded even more, filling their minds with the knowledge it absorbed.

It still took a few minutes, but everything about The Master became known to them. Not knowing what to expect, all of them expressed different reactions to the revelation.

The Master was the first man. As evolution changed the creatures that lived, The Master was the first primitive humanoid that transitioned from having an animal spirit to a human soul. His soul raw and powerful when he was born, he became the first of his kind.

New and bright, a beacon in the spiritual realm, he attracted the darkest and vilest being in creation. The Dark One, disguised as a friend, planted thoughts and emotions in the young Master. He became jealous of his brother, the second soul to be born, and in a fit of resentful rage, slew him, bringing down the wrath of Heaven, Cursing him and all men to follow.

Fuck guys, he’s the reason for the Curse the doc talks about. It all started with Him!

As a result, The Master was Cursed, destined to live forever, immortal and unable to be killed. The Curse on mankind could never be lifted or broken while he lived, and he could not die!

Every detail of his life, spanning eighty thousand years, was made known to them. He didn’t start out evil, but young and naïve he was easily corrupted, and once he opened himself to The Dark One, he was lost. They felt his pain and regret at seeing his brother’s lifeless body, his skull crushed by the stone in his hand. They also realized he buried his earliest memories so deep they were lost to his conscious mind, intentionally shut away.

The rest of his life up to the present was one of domination, inflicting pain and suffering on mankind in a deep-seated unconscious need for all humans to feel the pain he lived with every moment. They saw how powerful he was. Even if he wasn’t protected from death by the Curse, they might not be able to defeat him. With tens of thousands of years of experience and knowledge, his soul was mighty.

Silence fell as they stood, subdued and daunted by the revelations of Bill’s Avatar.

After a moment, Ken broke the silence.

Guys, I feel it too, but there has ‘ta be a way. If there wasn’t, he wouldn’t have tried ‘ta get rid of Bill and Lane. He’s afraid for a reason, and our mission now is ‘ta find a way ‘ta defeat him once and for all. There’s a reason we’re here and for what we’ve become. Just because we can’t see a clear picture now, we can’t lose confidence or stray from our mission. We’ll get the doctor and Albrecht up to speed on what we know, then figure out how to proceed.

We have no idea how long it’ll take us ‘ta win. It might be soon, and it might be years, but we signed on for this with the doc, and we’re in it for the long haul, so let’s buck up and kick ass.

Ken’s Avatar drove conviction into his words, fanning the spark of determination and hope within them. In the place where their souls were one, they leaned on one another, arm in arm, mind in mind, and soul in soul. Filling one another, steeling themselves against what they learned, they treated it like any other ongoing mission. Love, perseverance, and teamwork would see them through. It always had and always would.

<><><> 

Moving forward, Ken scheduled shifts with one couple in the lab at all times while Sally and the others were under their protection. The doctor was confident his wards weren’t triggered because of the amulets and wanted everyone under their protection another few weeks until he could be sure.

The doctor wasn’t sure how to free Istariel and his cousins, and before any attempts were made he wanted to be absolutely sure they would come to no harm in the process.

The nephilim were anxious to be free but deferred to the doctor’s wisdom. Everyone took turns wearing the amulets so the nephilim wouldn’t feel isolated or alone, but also out of friendship and support. The guys looked forward to their turn to talk with their cousins and get to know them better. The nephilim, in turn, learned more about them, and the extra time served to strengthen the alliance between them. 

<><><> 

That night Ken was in a pensive mood. Brad was with him, linked so Ken could feel his love and support, but didn’t intrude any deeper.

I wanna go for a run, B. I miss not workin’ out this week.

Sounds good, Ken. Let’s change and head out. If you want, we can try that new park instead of chancing the roads around here after dark. They have a track, and I can’t imagine many folks would be out this late.

Great idea.

Ken?

Yeah?

Let’s go get hot and sweaty, come back here and screw like madmen and then take a shower so we can go to bed and screw like madmen again.

Ken's little kid grin appeared.

I like yer thinkin’, B. I know what you’re doin’ and I appreciate it. I wanna clear my head with this run, and we can talk later.

Pausing, Ken’s emotions intensified.

I love you, Brad. Thanks for knowin’ me so well. Yeah, I know that sounds stupid ‘ta say the way we’re in each other’s heads all the time, but it’s still true.

Putting his arms around Ken’s shoulders, Brad pulled them into a chest to chest hug, giving Ken a quick kiss on the lips while looking into his eyes.

That’s what badass boyfriends are for, remember? And there’s nothing stupid about it. I love being in your head and having you in mine.

The weather was cooling off in the evenings, but it wasn’t chilly so they wore shorts and t-shirts. Brad drove them to the park, and as predicted, the track was empty. As usual, Ken set their pace.

After five miles, Brad thought: Okay, stud, I’m good, but you go ahead and cut loose. There’s no one here but if anyone shows up, I’ll cover.

Ken’s gratitude apparent, he took off, running another half hour at a phenomenal pace. To Brad’s calculation he ran an additional thirty miles before he stopped, and he still wasn’t breathing hard. His t-shirt damp across his broad back and under his arms, his skin shone with a light coat of sweat, making him look incredibly hot.

Seeing Ken’s handsome face, his muscular body, his stubbled cheeks, and smelling his unique scent sent Brad’s libido into overdrive.

Feel better?

Winking, he smiled, responding: Yeah, in all sorts of ways. Let’s get home. Pronto!

The drive home only took a few minutes, and Ken held Brad’s hand as usual, running his thumb across the back of his hand and across his knuckles.

As soon as they arrived home, Ken set the house in vault mode and glanced at the tree through the curtains. With no sign of any activity, he relaxed and headed to the bedroom.

As Ken walked through the door, Brad stood in their walk-in closet with his shirt already off, bent over and taking off his shoes.  He watched the muscles in Brad’s arms and shoulders tighten and flex, and when he straightened up, Ken noticed the full outline of his erection in his shorts.

Glancing back, Brad noticed Ken watching him and made eye contact, blue to green, as Brad opened their energy centers. Blue, Yellow, and Red streams arced into a thick White rope between them. Their eye colors mixed and immense contentment filled them; it was the perfection they felt when they were one, and more than their individual selves.

Stripping off his shirt, Ken kicked off his shoes and socks, and when he pulled down his underwear, his solid erection smacked against his abs with an audible thwack! Walking over, Brad put his hands on Ken’s lean hips, pulling them closer and pressing them together. Burying his face in the crux of Brad’s neck and shoulder, Ken’s arms encircled his lover, and they enjoyed the sensation of the intimate hug and their hard, warm bodies.

After a moment Brad pulled back, leading Ken to the bed. Ken lay on his back with his head on a pillow, with Brad pressed against him, on his side, with one hand propping his head up. His free hand roamed over Ken’s body, caressing him wherever he could reach. With a sigh, Ken closed his eyes in pleasure while Brad took his time. Ken had a lot of pent-up energy from whatever was bothering him, and Brad wanted to draw out his pleasure. The longer Ken lasted, the more relaxed he would be once he reached an orgasm… or two or three.

Altering the flows, red tendrils of sexual energy seeped off his hands and into Ken wherever he touched.

Just lay back and go with this, Ken. I want to make you feel good. Don’t reciprocate.

In only a few minutes Ken trembled in excitement, his breath deepening.  His body heated up again, and fresh sweat covered his skin. His erection throbbed in tune with his bounding heartbeat, and a steady drip of precum leaked out, pooling in the light dusting of hair on his stomach.

For the next few hours they had a mixture of raw sex, and passionate lovemaking.  Brad took his time getting Ken off the first time, receiving his physical charge so Ken could become ‘that guy.’

Without the need to hold back or worry about hurting Brad, the light and power emanating during their lovemaking shone like a small sun in the spiritual realm.  The strength of their emotions was so intense it overwhelmed them, and the runes on the tree in their backyard glowed brighter, soaking up the power they gave off.

Finally, in a heap of sweaty, satisfied muscle, they collapsed with Ken on top, while Brad held him.  Ken’s vulnerability after lovemaking never ceased to touch Brad, and he caressed his lover soothingly, letting him come down at his own pace.

Eventually Ken rolled to his side, spooning Brad as they continued basking in the afterglow of their orgasms.  Their legs intertwined, they cuddled for another hour, quiet and content to relax and be together.

Finally, Brad broke the silence.

So, what’s bothering you, Ken? I think I know, but I want you to get it off your chest.

A slight pause followed while Ken collected his thoughts.

We finally met The Master face ‘ta face. In one way, it was good ‘ta see he’s only a man. I mean, we knew that, but ‘ta actually see him and grab his arm and feel that he’s flesh‘n blood is a relief. But, B… fuck, he’s powerful. Even with all of us ready and on the defensive, we barely held our own. He’s had over eighty fuckin’ thousand years ‘ta grow powerful. We’ve had our powers for a little over a year.

I was pretty sure that’s what you were thinking. Let me point a few things out, Ken. First, like you already said, we don’t know how long it will take to defeat him. There’s no reason to think it will be anytime soon or maybe even years down the road. That will just give us time to get stronger, too. There are ten of us and one of him and don’t forget Istariel and his cousins. Even if we never find a way and can’t defeat him, and say it’s a stalemate… we can neutralize his effect in the world, and everybody will still be better off.

But if we do manage to find a way to break the Curse, and that part of the plan works, who’s to say it won’t weaken him considerably once the Curse is broken? We just don’t know some of those answers, and you taught me we need to focus on what we know, not what we don’t know. Let’s take things one step at a time.

When you lay it out like that, it’s easier ‘ta swallow. Thanks.

You’re smart, Ken. Way smarter than you give yourself credit for. I didn’t tell you anything you don’t already know. You’re our natural leader, and you would have worked all this out without me.

Maybe and maybe not, but I still love you.

Making eye contact, his little kid grin made an appearance.

And it was worth having you get me off like that ‘ta chill me out enough ‘ta listen. Feel free to do that anytime… that was over the top!

So, do you want to stay here and fall asleep or get up and take a shower?

Let’s just stay here. You feel too nice against me, and I don’t wanna move.

The smell of the sheets, soaked with sweat and semen, wrapped around them and rather than being gross, it was an affirmation. Hugging and continuing to snuggle, they caressed each other until sleep took them.

<><><>  

The next few days were quiet and subdued around the lab. Ken canceled training for the remainder of the week while they had guests. All of them worked out anyway, regardless of whose shift it was. They felt responsible for The Enemy pulling their friends into the conflict and wanted to make things as easy as possible for them while their lives were uprooted. Drew, in particular, loved the attention from the guys.

Sally withdrew, but none of them pried into her mind to see if it was grief or a reaction to her finding out about them, giving her space out of respect and friendship while keeping an eye on her.

Loy and Rick contacted Greg’s ex-wife and most of the friends he made since he came out. Greg’s wife didn’t return their phone calls or messages. He didn’t have any children, but his father was in poor health, and they made arrangements to get him to the funeral service.

Sally, Liz and Drew, Henry, Olive, and Tag wanted to attend the funeral to honor Greg and the fight they found themselves in. None of them knew him personally, but they were with him when he died and felt the need to be there. Bill, Kevin, Darren, and Pat helped them with clothes, either shopping or teleporting them to their houses or apartments to get what they needed.

In the short time Greg had been out and accepted himself, he made some great friends. He had just found a boyfriend, a nice man named Lewis who was devastated at the news of Greg’s death. Greg still hadn’t come out to his father, but wrapped in the grief over losing his son Mr. Rawlins didn’t seem to pay attention to the fact that nearly thirty large bearded men attended the service, offering their condolences.

Ken and Brad planned a get together at their house after the funeral for anyone wanting to attend. It was a simple gathering to celebrate Greg’s life and their friendship with him. Greg, after coming out of his shell, touched several people’s lives.

The party set up was typical, with Brad and Ken taking care of the food, Bryan handling the majority of the cooking, Lane taking care of the music, and the rest of the guys helping set up and organize. Scanning the memories of Greg’s boyfriend and his other friends to see what kind of music Greg liked, Lane made a playlist from what he found.

He didn’t pry any further than their memories of Greg; it wasn’t something he wanted to do, and the idea of invading their privacy without cause was reprehensible to him and the other mentalists. Besides that, there was always the ever-present layers of what he and Brad called ‘fucked-upness’ that normal humans seemed inundated with that he didn’t want to expose himself to.

Immediately after scanning them, Lane’s Avatar responded. Something in their memories stirred a reaction in him, and once he let it run its course, the resulting urge was overwhelming.

Lane: Bry, I need you for a few minutes.

Aside from their connection, the tone of Lane’s voice indicated something was up.

Bryan: Ken, can you cover the grill for a minute?

Taking Bryan’s hand, Lane led him to a corner of the yard away from everyone. As a precaution, he positioned them with their backs to everyone so no one would see their eyes turn white. Creating a construct of their living room, Lane took them deep for the time differential.

Lane, what’s wrong?

Even as Bryan asked his question, he pulled Lane against him, wrapping his strong arms around his lover and hugging him tightly.

I’m sorry, Bry, I just need to be with you for a minute. I looked at the memories everyone had of Greg because I wanted to make a playlist for the party. I barely met him, but he was a good man. None of those people except his father have known Greg for more than a few months, but the impact he had on them is amazing. A light just went out of this world, one The Master snuffed out because of us.

No! Not because of us! Don’t go there, Little Buddy. This war started a long time ago, way before we got involved. We’re here to finish it. Greg meeting Brad and Ken that night was random, and with Loy and Rick’s help they gave him a second chance at life. They opened him up, and he was happy for the first time in years. At least he had that.

But he was killed because he knew us.

Yeah, but we’re in a war. We’ve seen this before when we ran missions. There’s more going on in your head than what you’re telling me. Show me. This is affecting you more than it should.

Even though they were isolated in their own link, the guys and all the guests felt the warmth and power radiating off Lane and Bryan. It was brief because they were so deeply merged, but everyone felt it. Brad had to alter the memory of Greg’s friends but didn’t bother with Sally or the others after what they already knew.

A strained look crossed Sally’s face as their light touched her, and tears formed in her eyes.  She went into the house to the bathroom and locked the door.

Lane’s Avatar was at work, and Bryan immediately Understood what was happening. Greg’s death was affecting them, not just the team but all his friends, in ways they didn’t realize or could imagine; it was acting as a catalyst for some type of event. Ripples he saw but didn’t Understand radiated out, touching all of them.

There’s a song about this in me, Bry, for Greg, about his life and the tragedy of his death. His life had meaning for all of us, and I need to bring that out. I want it to be powerful, and I want The Enemy to hear it. I want them to know we honor our dead, and we can turn our grief into something beautiful to fight them. We can turn our pain around and remember the love of our friend and his life.

They need to know they can’t use our friends against us without repercussions. Will you stay and help me write it?

You little shit, why are you even asking? Of course. No matter how long it takes us in here, it will only be a second for them. Ken won’t have time to burn anything before I get back to the grill.

Smiling, Lane pulled Bryan closer. A set of drums and his guitar appeared in the construct.

Okay, let’s get to work...

<><>  

Greg’s father sat by himself, withdrawn and isolated. Lewis and Greg’s friends had already come by to extend their condolences.

Noticing his isolation, Brad went over to him.

“How are you holding up, Mr. Rawlins?”

“My son is gone. A parent shouldn’t outlive their children. It’s not right.”

“No, sir, it isn’t. I can’t tell you how sorry I am about Greg. He was a good man.”

“We haven’t been as close as I would have liked, but I think I’ve figured it out. I feel like I failed him.”

Lowering his head, his shoulders shook with quiet sobs. Brad’s Avatar reacted to Mr. Rawlins' grief and the reasons behind it. In the last hour, he put everything together and realized Greg was gay. No one thought he was paying attention, but his mind was still sharp.

“Sir, you didn’t fail him. Greg had a lot on his plate these last few years. He made some mistakes and decisions that led his life to where it was. I’m glad we ran into him and were able to help him. Given a little more time, I’m sure he would have told you. You didn’t fail him, so please don’t blame yourself or Greg. You can’t second-guess either one of you at this point. Know that he loved you, and you loved him, and cherish that. The rest doesn’t matter.”

“I don’t understand how he died. Who did this to him? Why weren’t the police involved? Something doesn’t seem right.”

“Sir, that’s hard to explain. Greg was a victim in a conflict he knew next to nothing about.”

“So, you either can’t or won’t tell me more.”

It was a statement and not a question.

“No, sir, I’m sorry, but I can’t.”

“I’d like to be alone for a few minutes, young man.”

“Yes, sir, I understand. If you need anything, just let me know.”

Brad left him to his thoughts and grief, not intruding in his mind.

<><> 

The rest of the afternoon was quiet, and after a few hours most of the guests left. The food was excellent as always, but the mood sad and reserved. As Bill and Kevin prepared to take Mr. Rawlins back to his house, Lane made an announcement.

“Hey, everybody, could you gather around for a minute?”

Everyone had curious looks on their faces. The guys knew Lane and Bryan had been up to something and wondered what it was. Sally was there, pale and quiet, standing by herself while Liz and Henry stood with Drew, and Tag and Olive sat by the fire pit.

“I wrote a song for Greg that I want to share with you all. It bothers me how he died. He wasn’t guilty of anything other than meeting some of us when he was having a hard time, and our help cost him his life. I know he was happy these last months and touched a lot of lives in that short time. I don’t want that to be forgotten.”

Lane turned, addressing Greg’s father directly.

“Mr. Rawlins, don’t be alarmed at what you’re about to see.”

Reaching out to the guys, Lane brought everyone into a link.

Guys, you know the drill. Ten, five, one. This is going to be heard by The Enemy and especially Him. I want Them to feel this.

Each couple merged, becoming one, and then went deeper together. To their human friends they began to glow, and in the spiritual realm they shone like a star.

The warmth and love flowing off of the handsome men opened the hearts of the humans present to feel the way things should be. Sadly, as beautiful as it was, it caused Sally pain. Through her brokenness, she felt like something had been stolen from her.

Bryan called on the tree, Loy on animal spirits, and Lane listened, hearing the music underlying creation. It was already dusk, and the sky over the backyard darkened into a night sky filled with stars as a ghostly image of Yggdrasil took shape. In and around the tree, animal spirits of all shapes and sizes roamed, lending their strength.

Across the sky thunder rumbled, and the darkness filled with flashes of heat lightning reflected in the white light of their eyes. The Enemy heard and felt it and knew it wasn’t natural. It was the power of The Order, strong once again.

Not wanting to freak anyone out too much, Lane didn’t summon his guitar or Bryan his drums. Channeling the music, he altered it to suit his need and made it come from the sound system in the backyard.

Their eyes white, a hot wind blew their hair. Lane’s Avatar lit up like fire, and so did Brad’s, Loy’s, Bill’s, and Darren’s, acting in concert as their Avatars synchronized. Looking to the heavens, Lane’s voice echoed not just through the minds of The Enemy but into the spiritual realm.

He sang Greg’s story, about the pain in his life, and the emotional valleys and mountains he climbed through to find a new life. The darkness that gripped Greg was present, and the threads of his brokenness, and how he found salvation even through the dark times on his journey Home. The sound of Greg’s life breaking was like a thousand thunderstorms in Heaven, and the skies overhead reflected that sound through Lane’s song, driving his point home to The Enemy.

By the time he finished, everyone had tears in their eyes. Greg’s struggle, his pain, and his salvation were all written beautifully in the words Lane chose, and everyone stood quietly in their thoughts. Something reverent and otherworldly was still present. Heat lightning continued flashing across the sky, followed by deep rolling thunder. Looking up at the lightning, Drew saw it first, a ball of light falling from the sky.

Excited, he pointed, saying, “Look, mommy!”

Coming down, it hovered, bobbing gently for a moment before assuming the shape of a man. None of the guys felt any fear or anxiety, so they knew whatever it was wasn’t evil. They recognized it for what it was; a human soul. A smaller ball of light appeared, zipping playfully around the larger one. Loy sensed it was an animal spirit.

Suddenly, Greg stood in their backyard with Ely by his side.

“Thanks, Lane, that was beautiful.”

They stared, dumbfounded.

Greg was dead and shouldn’t be there.

Bryan immediately cast his thoughts out: Grandfather?

Uriel: I am here, Bryan. There is no need for the humans to see me, but I am here.

Drew moved forward, planting himself in front of Ely. Reaching out to pet the dog, his hand passed through, and he giggled as he kept trying while Ely tried to sniff his hand.

Mr. Rawlins's voice was barely a whisper.

“Greg?”

“Hi, Dad. I’m sorry I had to leave you. I was allowed to come back for just a moment to say goodbye and give you all a message. Apparently, the man who killed me broke some kind of rule, or I wouldn’t be here...”

Grandfather, I didn’t think this was allowed?

Only two other times in all of history has this happened.

Fuck me.

“Son…”

Mr. Rawlins broke down, crying.

“It’s alright, Dad. I’m really here. Not my body, but me. I know you figured it out… about me being gay. You met Lewis, my boyfriend, and my other friends. They’re great guys, Dad. I wish I had introduced you to them before, but I was afraid you’d be disappointed if I told you the truth.”

Through his tears, Mr. Rawlins lowered his head, saying, “I understand, son, and I’m not disappointed. I’m sorry I let you down. I always wanted you to be able to tell me anything. I just wanted you to be happy.”

“I finally found happiness, Dad, when I accepted myself and who I am. It took my friends here to show me how to do that. I owe them a lot.”

Greg nodded to Rick and Loy and the rest of the guys when he said that.

“You can’t stay?”

“No, I can’t. I only have a few minutes, but I’m glad I got one last chance to see you and tell you I love you. I want to make sure you’ll be alright.”

“How can I be alright with you gone? And your mom and your brother? I shouldn’t be here! I’m not strong enough to keep going by myself! I don’t want to…”

“Don’t say that! You have to be strong. Please don’t be sad. Mom and Terry are waiting… We’ll all be waiting for you. You have to live out the rest of your life, however long that is. Think of this as a gift. You know where I am, where Mom and Terry are. We’ll be waiting for you. We’re at peace, Dad… take comfort in knowing that.”

Uriel: Greg Rawlins... There isn’t much time.

Turning to Ken, Greg said, “The answer to the riddle of defeating The Master is his brother. He’s still alive, tied to the Curse, continually reborn all these thousands of years. The Master must ask for his forgiveness. If he does that, and his brother forgives him, the Curse will be lifted, and he will no longer be protected from death. Then you can kill him. Once he’s dead, you can choose to remove the Curse over mankind, or not. That will be up to you. That’s the message I was sent to give you.”

The impact of Greg’s words wasn’t lost on any of them. The immensity of what they were and what they had become, and their purpose… it was daunting.

Uriel: It is time. I must take you back now, Greg Rawlins.

“I have to go now, Dad. I love you. Promise me you’ll be okay?”

Mr. Rawlins had tears running down his cheeks.

“Goodbye, son, I love you too. At least I know you’re at peace. Tell your mother and brother I love them too.”

Reaching out to put a hand on Greg’s shoulder, his hand passed through Greg’s spiritual form.

“I wish I could touch you one last time.”

“Me too, Dad.”

Brad: Guys, that’s one wish we can grant.

Together they opened Mr. Rawlins' energy centers, separating his soul from his body, and a perfect version of his younger self stood up. Looking at his hands in surprise, he held them up, seeing through them.

Brad said, “Some wishes we have control over, Sir.”

Mr. Rawlins pulled his son into a tight embrace. They stayed that way for a moment until Greg transformed back into a ball of light. Ely barked once at Drew, prancing in front of the guys with his tail wagging, and then he changed as well, and the two of them shot off into the heavens to go Home.

Mr. Rawlins, when he opened his eyes, was back in his body.

“I don’t understand any of this. This must be a dream, but I hope it’s not. I want to know I hugged my son one last time and tell him I love him. I want to know he heard me.”

Ken said, “It was real, Sir, and he heard you. It’s hard ‘ta explain, but it was real.”

<><> 

Bill, Kevin, Pat, and Darren took the other guests back to the lab. Sally didn’t say a word the entire time.

Loy and Rick took Mr. Rawlins back to his house. He assured them he would be alright, but they planned on checking on him the next day to be sure, and over time help him transfer into some type of assisted living facility. Without Greg to help him, he wouldn’t be able to live on his own. On the drive back to their house, Loy was quiet. He and Rick were together as always but not deeply.

Reaching over, Rick squeezed Loy’s shoulder in comfort.

I love you, Loy. More every day, if that’s possible. What’s eating you?

Rick could have pried or taken them deeper, but he wanted Loy to take the initiative in how they communicated.

I’m thinking about Mr. Rawlins. Tonight was hard on him. Even though what happened was miraculous, he still had to say goodbye to his son all over again. I know he’s old, and we could cure his physical ailments without any effort, but I’m wondering if we should. As much as I want to, I don’t think we should, and it makes me sad.

I know Loy. I know.

Kevin let out a heavy sigh.

We can do so much shit these days. Hell, if we all got together, I bet we could make Mr. Rawlins young again, but what would that accomplish? He’d live another life without his loved ones, and I wouldn’t want to do that to him.

Lane’s song was amazing. I forget how talented he is sometimes behind his goofy ass exterior. What he put into words, and how we all felt it… it was beautiful.

The doctor told us early on what we were going to become would be a burden, but I never thought it would be like this. I knew the war with The Enemy would be tough, but I never realized this part of it would be as hard or harder. We can do so much, but should we, or do we have the right to? The doc is greater than we ever realized – he’s been dealing with this longer than we ever knew or could imagine. We’ve been at it for less than a year.

I still wouldn’t have it any other way, Loy. To be with you and the guys like we are and do what we’re doing… you know how right it feels. We’ll grow into the heavy stuff. No one said it would be easy, but that’s why we have each other. I couldn’t do this without you, man… I wouldn’t want to. Being with you is what makes me strong. Being with you is what makes it bearable.

Loy’s eyes turned glassy in response to Rick’s words. To make his statement more impactful, Rick brought them together, mind, heart, and soul… and in that brief second while they drove, they spent a small eternity together.

Putting a hand under Loy’s shirt, Rick moved it up to his chest, kneading Loy’s hard pecs and loving the feel of his hairy chest under his hands.  They were both hard in seconds.

I can’t wait to get you home.

If you didn’t weigh so much, I could get us both there pronto and come back for the car.

Laughing, Rick moved his other hand down, rubbing the outline of Loy’s erection.

Loy gunned the Explorer, anxious to get home and get his lover naked and in bed.

<><> 

Two hours later, after everyone was gone, Ken and Brad had the yard cleaned up and everything back in order. Going into the house, Ken got on the couch first. Brad followed, reclining in his customary position between Ken’s thighs and leaning back against him. Ken wrapped his arms around his lover, hugging him tightly.

What a day, B. I guess this is the new normal for us.

They both chuckled at his statement.

Yeah.

With a contented sigh, Brad rested his hands on Ken’s forearms.

Man, I can’t get over seeing Greg. You heard what Bryan said; Uriel told him that’s only happened two times before. Holy shit, I don’t know what to say to that. I’m also worried about Sally. I haven’t looked into her mind, but I can tell she’s having a tough time with all this.

I know, B. I’m not sure what ‘ta do other than give her time. She’s smart, and tough, but I don’t like seein’ her upset or in pain. Do you wanna try and talk with her?

We can tomorrow. Let’s at least give her a little more time for all this to soak in.

Out of the blue Ken’s stomach let out a loud rumble, and Brad laughed.

I don’t believe I just heard that!

Looking sheepish, Ken chuckled too.

Sorry! I know we just ate, but I can’t help it. It must be all the adrenaline and excitement.

You know Lane never ceases to amaze me. That song gave me goosebumps.

And Bry is getting damn good on the drums.

Yeah, he is.

I’m jealous. My only talents seem ‘ta be stomach rumblin’, eatin’, and bein’ douchey.

You can add being handsome and studly to the list.

Smiling, Ken hugged Brad tighter.

I knew there was a reason I loved you.

So, do you want to go to Waffle House?

I don’t know… I mean I really do, but every time we go there somethin’ seems ‘ta happen! I’m ready for a quiet night with you on the couch.

How about I order us a couple of pizzas?

Now we’re talkin’!

Hey, Ken, I want to try something.

Oh shit… should I be scared?

Brad laughed.

Douche. Just go with me.

They hugged tighter as Brad merged them, settling into the warmth and perfection of being each other.  No matter how often they did that, it was just like the first time.

Their eyes turned white as their energy centers opened, blending together. Using Ken’s Avatar along with his, Brad looked at his iPhone and the screen lit up. Tapping out his passcode with his mind, he launched a browser. Within seconds, he had the pizza ordered online and paid for without physically touching his phone. Through Ken’s Avatar, and the part of his that came from Darren, Brad manipulated the app, the device, and the credit card payment.

Pretty cool, huh? Darren’s been doing this for a while and mentioned it at the lab this week. By the way, Darren and Pat have been putting in a lot of hours with the doc getting those new computers designed and built. We need to do something for them … that’s going to be a massive benefit to all of us once they’re up and running.

That is so cool. We didn’t even have to get up!

Ken grinned.

We could get fat and lazy this way. And yeah, you’re totally right about Dar and Pat. We definitely need ‘ta do somethin’ for them.

One of Ken’s hands moved up and started lightly brushing the hair off Brad’s forehead. Letting out a contented sigh, Brad enjoyed the feel of Ken’s warm hand caressing his head.  So lost in one another, they didn’t realize how much time had passed until the chirp of the alarm system went off a few seconds before the doorbell rang.

Throwing on a t-shirt, Ken went to the front door, checking the security monitor in the kitchen to be sure it was the delivery person.

As soon as he opened the door, he was pretty sure he knew the guy.

“Hey, wait a minute… you’re Tony, right?”

“Umm, yeah, I’m Tony. Do I know you?”

Ken shouted over his shoulder.

“Hey B! Come here a sec!”

As soon as Tony saw Brad, his face lit up with a smile of recognition.

“Tony! Damn, man, it’s great to see you! What have you been up to?”

Brad pulled Tony into a quick bearhug, excited to see his old gym bud.

Tony’s smile faded, and he looked downcast.

“Yeah, well…things didn’t go so well for me at the gym. I haven’t been there in months, and I’m trying to make ends meet. You know how it goes.”

“Wait a minute… what do you mean things didn’t go well at the gym? When I left, business was booming, mostly because of you. What happened?”

“About a month after you stopped coming in, these guys showed up and basically took over. Real assholes, but they knew the manager of the leasing company that owns the building. Long story short, I got squeezed out, and they took over my business.”

“Fuck, Tony, I’m sorry. I know how much you put into that place and how much it meant to you.”

As soon as Tony mentioned what happened, Brad’s intuition sent him signals that something wasn’t right. Usually he wouldn’t intrude, but he had a strong feeling something was wrong with his friend, so he looked into Tony’s mind, and sure enough the ‘assholes’ he mentioned looked like protectors. They probably targeted the gym because Brad worked out there before the doctor re-outfitted the lab.

Brad saw a confrontation between Tony and two of the protectors, Dave and Brett. Things got violent, and Tony’s arm ended up in a cast for eight weeks. They were pushing steroids to the younger clients, and Brad was confident they were using the gym as a recruiting farm for potential protectors.

Ken picked up on everything from Brad and saw it all. Furious at the situation along with Brad, he didn’t say anything.

“Well, Tony, it’s great to see you, bud. Please keep in touch and let me know how things work out, okay?”

“I will, Brad. It’s great to see you, too. I didn’t know you lived in this neighborhood. I drive by here all the time. Maybe one night when I get off, I can stop by and we can catch up? I need to head out now… customers are waiting for their pizzas.”

Tony left, and Ken took the pizzas into the kitchen. Before Brad could say or think anything, he interjected: We’ll check it out first thing in the mornin’ B. Sounds like someone else has suffered ‘cause of us.

Thanks, Ken. Yeah, it looks like it. I think we should talk to the doc and Albrecht about it before we head over, though. If The Enemy has taken over the gym, we might be able to use it to our advantage. Regardless, I want to make sure Tony is taken care of. I want to fix his arm – there’s some damage there that will cause him problems down the road. However they forced him out financially, I want to figure it out and get back what's his.

Ken knew Brad felt responsible for Tony’s circumstances.

Don’t worry, B, we’ll fix it. For now, Tony’s off their radar, and we need ‘ta be careful and not put him back on. Hey, B?

Yeah?

Did I ever tell you how hot you are when you get riled up? Let’s down this pizza and head back to bed.

Smiling, Brad realized what Ken was doing.

Sitting at the kitchen table eating, making eye contact and smiling, they enjoyed one another’s company and the time alone with just the two of them. Even with everything they were involved in, they were happier than ever with their lives and their relationship.  Once back in the bedroom, they relished the chance to prove it to one another again… and again… and again….