

The Order - Prologue

1992 - Syria

So it's finally come down to this. The doc said it would, but I hoped he was wrong. At least I don't have to face it alone. I'm not sure if I could do this without Alan.

Captain Bruce Dutcher looked at his Team waiting for him on the helicopter, and felt proud of each and every one of them. It was such a shame that things had to come to this, forcing them all to give up their lives and disappear.

He shook his head and thought, the price of being too successful.

Bruce had tried to prepare everyone for this inevitability months ago, but now that the moment was here, all of them felt apprehensive about where their lives were going and how they would live. All of them had confidence in the doctor, but starting new lives away from the military and everything they ever knew was... well, daunting to say the least. At least they had no families to grieve for them when everyone thought them dead.

Bruce pushed aside his own concerns, and focused on the present, needing to feel and appear confident to his men. He repeated the mantra drilled into him in his training, A good leader should always appear confident.

Bruce had to shout over the noise of the rotors, "Doc, we're ready! Let's get this show on the road!"

"Very good, my boy! You all know what to do!"

"Doc, are you absolutely sure you will be ok on your own!? I'd feel better if you came with me and Lt. Whetherson!"

"Rest assured Bruce, I will be fine! I think the phrase you would use is, 'This is not my first rodeo!'"

The doc had a slight grin on his face when he said that, which was rare for him. The doctor never smiled much.

He had a small device in his hand, which he held up. It was a trigger switch he had rigged for just this moment. The doctor's thumb moved over the switch and Bruce saw the light go on; there was no going back now. All the information about each of them just vanished from all the Military and US Government computers in the world with the flick of that button. Oddly enough Bruce felt relieved; there could be no more doubts and moving forward was now the only option.

Bruce knew better than to argue with the doctor. He reached out to shake the doctor's hand in farewell and said,"See you in a few months, Sir!" Bruce then turned, and ducking his head, ran back to the waiting helicopter.

He hopped on board, and gave the pilot the thumbs up for takeoff. He flipped on his com link and said, "Alright ladies, this is it. Switch to channel 5."

When everyone was on the secure channel, encrypted by one of the doctor's devices, Bruce went over the plan one more time.

The wind was picking up and the flight was already getting bumpy. They were headed out to sea and the sky was dark with heavy clouds, and scattered lightning periodically brightened up the sky.

"Keith, are you good to go on the pilot?"

"Yes sir, Cap."

"Alright everybody! Time to suit up!" Each pair of men started helping each other get into their scuba gear. Alan had already prepped his and Bruce's scuba gear, and was ready and waiting. Alan couldn't help but admire Bruce's physique as he stripped off his flight suit. His body was perfect from head to toe, and heavily muscled. The genetic alterations the doctor made to Bruce and the rest of the team had transformed all of them into perfect physical specimens.

Bruce, James, Keith, Paul, and Don were now far stronger than normal men; their bone and muscle density was slightly over four times that of a normal fit adult male. All of them weighed well over an astounding 400lbs and were solid muscle; however, fully proportioned to their height along with an incredibly low body-fat ratio. They looked more like Greek statues than body builders. They had heightened physical abilities including increased agility, speed, dexterity, and balance, as well as enhanced senses. Alan, Gary, Jim, Dan, and Fred didn't have the strength and bone density of their counterparts, but the doc had enhanced their minds so they were smarter and more intuitive. They had a few mental tricks as well, like causing emotional responses in normal humans. That came in handy on Spec Ops when they could induce fear or overconfidence in the mind of their target.

The doc designed the pairs to be dependent on one another, one representing the Body and one the Mind; whether it was the doc or nature taking its course, the pairs of men fell in love with one another within months of first meeting. They were all gay to begin with; the doctor said that was necessary from a genetic standpoint for his procedure to be the most effective, but regardless they all fell deeply in love with their partners in the months after the process that changed them.

When everyone was ready, Bruce switched his com link back to talk to the pilot and gave him the coordinates for their drop. "Alright guys, let's execute this like any other mission. If anyone has any questions or doubts this is your last chance to bring them up." No one said a word. He didn't expect them too.

The pilot took them down below radar cover and an hour later started to hover at the given coordinates. He said over the com, "Here we are Captain. We are in the middle of nowhere but this is the spot."

"Roger that."

Bruce nodded to Keith, who moved forward pulling out a syringe that doctor had prepared for just this moment. The pilot wasn't expecting anything to happen so he was totally unprepared when Keith's hand reached around and pulled off his flight helmet and oxygen tube and got him in a choke hold. He felt a needle go into his neck and panicked; flailing his arms and legs as much as he could in the tight quarters of the cockpit. Keith, stronger by far than the pilot, held him down for the few seconds it took the serum to take effect.

The pilot calmed down and Keith let him go. With a face void of any emotion, he put the helicopter on autopilot to hover and moved back and began to change into a wetsuit. Bruce went to the rear of the helicopter and lowered the rear panel. The water looked cold and dark. "Schrader! Shogren! You two first! Let's go!" Bruce dropped the inflatable raft for the pilot to use once they got him down. The doc had said there would be a submarine nearby that would pick up on the rescue beacon.

James and Dan pinched their noses closed and held their regulators steady and jumped, crossing their legs; Bruce saw them splash down. James bobbed up first and gave a thumbs up to let him know they were down safely.

Don and Jim were next, followed by Paul and Gary, and then Keith and Fred. Alan pulled out a small portable hard drive that the doctor had given them and went up to the cockpit and hooked it into the navigation system of the helicopter. He flipped the switch and the little light started to flicker, letting Alan know it was transmitting data.

Alan moved back and shouted to Bruce, "It's plugged in and working! Let's get him down!"

The pilot had drop training and knew what to do, even if he wasn't in control of himself mentally. The serum Keith injected into him was controlling his actions, and would keep him from remembering any of what was currently going on.

They got the pilot down safely, and a few of the guys had already inflated the raft and helped get him into the raft safely. Jim crawled up and into the raft and secured the pilot so he wouldn't fall out unless the raft actually capsized.

Bruce and Alan looked at one another and Alan said, "Well, Bruce this is it. I'm glad it's you and me together man."

"Me too Alan, as long as we're together we'll make it work. And I have faith in the doc."

Alan steeled himself against the cold he was about to plunge into. He envied Bruce's warmer body temperature, but then he didn't envy his extra body mass right now with the swim they were going to have to make.

Bruce said, "On three... One... Two..." and pushed Alan out of the opening. He heard the beginning of "You fuckkerrrrrrrrr!!!" before the wind ripped Alan's shout away even from Bruce's exceptional hearing. Bruce chuckled to himself and jumped after his best friend and lover.

When Bruce surfaced and cleared his mask, he saw the others hanging onto the edge of the raft, which contained the now sleeping pilot. A few seconds later the helicopter started to move and gain altitude. They watched it until it was almost out of sight and then saw the ball of fire as it exploded and plummeted into the Mediterranean.

Just as the ball of fire hit the water, it started to rain heavily with lightning rippling across the sky. Jim reached in and turned on the S.O.S. beacon in the raft and said, "Sleep tight fella. Hopefully that submarine is close." The raft started to drift away from them, helped by a solid push from Keith and Don.

They all formed a circle, arms out and over each other's shoulders while their powerful legs kept them treading water. Bruce looked at them and said, "Be careful guys. We'll all see each other back in the states in a few months. Stick to the plan and everything will be fine." With that they all put on their masks and started to swim in pairs at slightly different angles, but all making towards the shore, leaving their old lives behind them.

Two months later the team started arriving in pairs at prearranged rendezvous points. The doctor had arranged for papers and money to get them out of Syria and back to the United States. By the time they arrived in Atlanta, after taking a very scenic tour of the US just to be sure no one from the Government saw through the accident and tried to trace them, the doctor had houses purchased and vehicles for them and new identities with background stories and family histories. He also acquired a facility for a new Laboratory and had the building modified according to his needs.

Sitting in the new Lab, Bruce and Alan looked over their new identities. Bruce's new name was Ken Habbersham and Alan's was Brad Wilson.

The doctor had taken care of everything and they all started their new lives together.

The Order – Chapter 1

18 Years Later - Atlanta, GA

Ken was looking forward to getting home to Brad. He had a great workout and could really use a good massage. He was pretty sure it was going to be a late night working security for a new client, and he wanted get the kinks out of his back and shoulders before going to work. Aside from the massage being a part of his job, he was closer to Brad than any other human being on the planet and wanted to be with him. They have been together nearly twenty years now, even though they hadn't aged a day as far as they could tell, and they were closer than ever. They were best friends and lovers.

Ken gave his usual "Hey B!" greeting as he came into the kitchen. Brad gave his typical "Hey sissy!" response with a smile on his face. "What time do you need to head out for work tonight? Do we have enough time to eat and play?"

He pulled his Explorer into the garage and parked. When the door opened he saw Brad's car already there and his handsome face broke into a smile. He started getting a hard on thinking about what was going to happen in a few minutes but literally willed it down – it had been ingrained on him all these years with his training to keep control at all times. The only time he could let his guard down was when the house was in the'vault' mode, or if he was with the doctor at the Lab.

Closing the garage door with the remote he went into the house through the laundry room and then into the kitchen. He saw grocery bags on the island in the kitchen and saw Brad's legs. The top half of his body was hidden by the refrigerator door that was open while he was putting everything away. He was wearing shorts and sandals, so Ken got a good view of his solid legs. Brad was an exceptional male specimen and worked out religiously to maintain the best body he possibly could.

"Yeah I don't have to be downtown until 9pm so we should have plenty of time. In fact I think we need to have a little fun first and then eat. What do you think?"

"Alright man, just give me a couple of minutes to finish putting the groceries away and I'll head back. Is the garage secure?"

"It is... gonna go ahead and flip the switch if you have everything out of the car?"

"Yeah I'm good, go ahead."

Ken opened a small panel and punched in his code. Immediately the air pressure changed slightly in the house as all the seals activated, and the slight 'thunk' could be both felt and heard as titanium bolts went into every door and window sill in the house. Even after all these years he could still never totally relax until he heard that noise.

As he squeezed behind Brad, who was still putting food into the fridge, Ken wrapped his big arms around Brad from behind into a quick full body hug, and put his chin on Brad's shoulder. He knew that the feel of the stubble on his face turned Brad on, so he rubbed his cheek against Brad's and blew in his ear. Brad immediately started to get hard feeling Ken's hard body pressed up against him and feeling his warm breath in his ear. That and he took in Ken's smell... he had gone to work out but he didn't really sweat much when he worked out unless he really pushed himself; not since the Program. Brad loved the warmth of Ken's body and his distinct smell... it's like he has a natural cologne that it is intoxicating to Brad.

Brad just closed his eyes and put his hands over Kens as they wrapped around his tight stomach. "You know what you just did to me right?" Brad chuckled under his breath, "You fucker."

Ken's whispered his reply in Brad's ear, "You got that right. Finish up quick, bro. I'm horny." That was Ken speak for 'get your ass naked and in the bedroom on the double.'

Ken put his hands up on Brad's shoulders, giving them a quick squeeze and a pat on the back. He gave Brad a quick peck on his cheek and then moved out from behind him and went through the house to the bedroom. Ken thought to himself like he always does when he comes home, how lucky he is to have Brad as a partner. Not only is he an amazing man, and head over heels in love with Ken, but he is a total stud. Brad is everything that Ken could ever want... handsome beyond words with an awesome body and the soul of an angel. He knows Brad works extra hard to keep himself in shape, even though it's part of his job. There are legitimate reasons Brad has to be physically strong to be with Ken, but the eye candy is still amazing and never gets old. At 6' 2'', with golden blond hair and 245 lbs. of solid muscle, Brad is definitely a looker. His eyes are an amazing blue that Ken could just stare into for hours and never get tired of them.

Beyond his looks, Brad is truly an amazing guy. He's a lot of fun to be around, although he tends to be the more serious of the two of them. He's very good with group dynamics, and sensitive to the needs of people around him. He is always kind and compassionate, and goes out of his way to help others, even if it's to his detriment, and sometimes Ken's. Brad is wise for his years, but then none of them really know how old they were anymore. Ken isn't sure if they stopped aging in 1992 or if they just slowed down, but none of them look or feel a day older.

Of course Ken knows he is a looker too. With no conceit or cockiness he knows he is a stud. Dr. Thomas made him this way – made them all the way they are now. Ken and the other nine had all been Navy Seals and volunteered for the Program after interviewing with the doctor. The closest description he can think of is the Steve Rogers transformation into Captain America. He and the other four guys can easily bench press 700lbs. and if they really push it over 1000lbs. There were all kinds of changes, and according to Dr. Thomas the changes were still happening, which is why he and the other guys in the program still worked with Dr. Thomas in secret. After faking their deaths and getting new identities they were still together as friends and workmates, with Dr. Thomas acting as a mentor and surrogate father to them.

Ken thinks Dr. Thomas somehow made them all fall in love with one another, each of the five and their partners. They were all gay to begin with, which Dr. Thomas said was necessary from a genetic perspective for the Program to work and be the most effective. The Navy didn't know of course; they had all joined the Navy back in the days of Don't Ask Don't Tell. The Black Ops Team they formed was the most successful the Navy had ever seen – possibly too successful. They were like a Seal Team of Seal Teams. It's really unfair to even compare... again not out of arrogance or cockiness. They were genetically enhanced, and normal guys, no matter how much training and conditioning they have, just can't compete with that.

There were some drawbacks, if they chose to look at it that way. None of the guys saw it that way, but there were ramifications to the Program. Ken thinks that Dr. Thomas planned on them, rather than being surprised by them. The need for the partners is one, but with the bond between them neither guy sees it as a downside at all. It's for their safety and well-being, and the safety and well-being of others. It kind of sucks that Ken could kill another man if he had sex with him – the fact that he weighs 420 lbs. would be a shock but that isn't the reason. He can keep his strength in check and not hurt another guy. The downside is that if he cums inside another man, or another man swallows his load, that person will die. Ken's own DNA will try to overwrite the other persons, and without Dr. Thomas and the proper treatment that person will die a fast and painful death - which brings in Brad and the other partners. Dr. Thomas has permanently locked their DNA so it can't be overwritten. They literally get a physical charge from their partner and get an energy boost after making out with them... nothing on Kens scale and it only lasts for a few hours but it makes for hours and hours of amazing and fun filled sex.

Some of the other benefits are greatly increased senses, which was one of the most difficult changes to adapt too. Eyesight, hearing, and touch are the most prominent. Brad and his group were changed mentally more than physically... increased intelligence, intuition and empathy. There is no telepathy, although Ken always gives the Doc shit about that. Dr. Thomas never denies it is possible, he just says that was on purpose and 'maybe later.' Ken can never tell if he is joking about that or not.

These thoughts were going through his head as they occasionally did. Every time he walks into the house and sees Brad there and realizes how lucky he is to have such an amazing man in his life, many of the memories of events that led up to this point in his life flash through his mind.

Ken turned his thoughts back to the present, and he took off his jacket and hung it up in the closet. He went into the bathroom, took a leak, and washed his hands but nothing else. He knew that Brad would want him to smell of sweat. Ken always gets a kick out of that and calls Brad a "kinky fucker." He left on his underwear and t-shirt knowing that Brad will want to undress him.

Brad came down the hall and as soon as he walked in the room he is struck, as always, by the vision of Ken standing there. Ken is his dream man from head to toe. Everything about Ken, every minute detail, makes Brad hard as a rock. His incredibly handsome face – his hair, eyes, nose, jaw, ears, thick neck, powerful shoulders, big arms, amazing chest, powerful legs and calves, his trim waist, the abs he can't see at the moment but can see the definition through the tight t-shirt he is wearing – all of it made him want to explode just by looking. What is even more amazing, and incredibly humbling, is that Brad knows that Ken feels the same way about him. They have a connection, it's probably part of their pairing from the Program, but he doesn't care. The important thing is that he knows that Ken feels the same way.

Unfortunately for Brad, he doesn't have the control over his body that Ken does and his dick became instantly hard, which was easy to spot in the shorts he's wearing. He normally has good control of himself, except when it comes to Ken.

Brad walked over to Ken and without saying a word and lifted his shirt up and over his head. He loves to see Ken's big lats flare out when he raises his arms like that. He can feel the heat coming off of Ken's body. Removing his own shirt, Brad let it drop to the floor and closed the gap between them. He brought his arms up, one across Kens shoulder and behind his neck and the other around his waist, and pulled him into a tight hug. Chest to chest, they can feel each other's hard muscles as they press together. Ken is intentionally letting his defenses down and letting his libido run wild. He put his arms around Brad the same way, pulling him tight, but instead of kissing they each rested their chins in the crevice between each other's neck and shoulder; both just basking in the feeling of their bodies touching. Brad loves the feel of Ken's strong body and let his hands start roaming a bit. One of Ken's hands came up between them and started rubbing Brad's hard chest, making sure to run his hand over Brad's sensitive nipples. They can feel their hard-ons, still in their shorts, pushing out against one another. They always laugh because each of their dicks tends to pull a different direction, so when they face each other like this they line up together. This makes grinding and dry humping incredibly easy – they literally seem to be made for one another.

Brad let one of his hands snake down and pop Ken on his hard ass. He could feel Ken smile when he did that because he knew what it meant. "Ok stud, before I get lost in this Calgon moment, I need to put the brakes on and take care of you." Brad moved back, reluctantly letting his arms fall to his sides. Ken arched his eyebrows at the mention of being taken care of – same old joke but it always makes them smile at one another. The eyebrows didn't go unnoticed by Brad and he said "You know what I mean big guy. First I get to rape your body with my hands, and then, when I have you at my mercy, I might decide to let you have a happy ending. If, and I mean, IF, you are a good boy."

"Ok you know the drill. Take off your underwear... or better yet let me take it off."

Brad pulled Ken's underwear down and let it fall to the floor, revealing his semi hard dick, "Arms out, feet apart."

Ken knew the drill well, as they do this after every workout, and sometimes just for fun, because it almost always leads to great sex. He straightened up, put his feet a little more than shoulder width apart, and raised his arms straight out at shoulder height. It is the Vitruvian Man pose that the Doc taught them. He said it has a symbolic meaning, but he never seems to take the time to explain what that meaning is.

Brad got out his tablet and started doing his visual exam and measurements. Dr. Thomas is very meticulous and wants everything recorded – no excuses EVER. Brad ran his hands all over Ken's body, almost like he is examining a thoroughbred horse; poking a little here or there, and pressing around his abdomen and around his lower back.

Brad glanced up at Ken with a grin and said, "I love my job, did I ever tell you that?"

Touching Ken like this, even though it is somewhat clinical, always makes Brad hard. Ken enjoys it as well, as is obvious by the precum starting to drip down from the head of his eight inch boner. Ken was never a jock prior to the Program and never really all that into sports as a kid, so he wasn't used to having anyone touch him like this. But after his transformation it's become a normal, almost daily activity. He is no longer body shy – with his body he doesn't have to be. Of course right now he is letting himself go, but when Dr. Thomas does the exam, or one of Brad's counterparts, Ken doesn't have any problems keeping himself under control. The big deal now is that it's Brad's hands that are touching him. He can feel the love and care that Brad has for him with every touch and squeeze, and that turns him on far more than just the physical act of touching. Brads big strong hands can turn him on quicker than lightning.

"You pushed yourself a little today didn't you? In particular your upper back and shoulders."

"Mmm hmmm."

"Any particular reason? You trying to impress someone?" Brad chuckled when he asked.

"Naw...I just thought you would like the chance to use your degree and see if you could figure it out without me havin to spill it out for you, you douche."

"Well the douche comment is gonna cost you bud. Get into the chair."

Ken moved over and got in the massage chair in the corner of the bedroom. It has the hole for his face and the pad to rest his chest against. He draped his body in the chair and relaxed. Brad came over and started the massage.

Over the next hour, while Brad worked on Ken's body, they talked as only best friends can; shooting the shit and cracking jokes. They shared the same sense of humor and could laugh at themselves and each other at the drop of a hat.

Brad worked up quite a sweat; Ken's muscles were like steel cords. By the time he was finished he was breathing hard and totally drenched.

"Ok bro, time to get on the bed." Ken just sat there like he had fallen asleep in the chair.

"Dude, don't make me nut slap you!" Ken can sense the smile on Brad's face when he said that and it got Ken moving. Ken moved over and laid down on their king sized bed. Brad had already pulled down the comforter and had the pillows laid out. Ken crawled over to the middle of the bed, being sure to wiggle his butt at Brad a little as he moved into position. He got on his back while Brad removed his own shorts and shoes. Crawling over, he got on top of Ken, straddling his stomach. Ken put his arms up with his hands behind his head and flexed a little. Brad almost started to drool looking down at the Greek god in his bed. He always goes a little off record at this point in the massage, but he told Dr. Thomas a long time ago and was told in return that it would make no difference in the outcome of the record keeping.

Looking down, Brad stared into Ken's piercing green eyes. He slowly started rubbing Ken's chest, moving up to his neck and shoulders. Ken closed his eyes and relaxed even more, putting himself into the care of his lover. Fuck his hands feel good. Leaning over, Brad started kissing Ken on his forehead and started running his fingers through Ken's hair. Ken still keeps his hair short and Brad loves to run his hands through it. Brad loves the feel of Ken's strong masculine face. He kissed his way slowly across Ken's forehead and down his nose, to each cheek and moved down to his neck and earlobes, going slowly from side to side. Moving his hands to hold Ken's head gently but firmly, he started using his middle fingers to run slow circles around Ken's temples and tenderly rub his thumbs across his forehead. Touching Ken in this way renewed Brad's hard on and as he leaned over Ken his hard dick was pressing down against the ridges of Ken's stomach. Brad was leaking precum like a sieve and Ken's abs were getting a little slick.

Ken was getting a little overwhelmed with the sensations Brad was causing in him. Not just physically with the tenderness, but mentally and emotionally with the love that went behind it all. He immediately got hard and started leaking. Brad took his time as he slowly moved his mouth down the thick stalk of Ken's neck and then moved over to one of his armpits and started giving it a royal tongue bath. This is one of Brad's specialties and it drives Ken crazy. Ken never knew how good having your armpits eaten out could be before he met Brad. Now it was a regular part of their foreplay and both men loved it. Brad spent a few minutes there and then started moving his tongue down the center of Ken's chest, outlining the muscles. He licked and kissed every square inch of Ken's chest saving his nipples for last. Brad rose up a little to let Ken's dick pop up against his stomach so he can rub their dicks together while he is using his tongue on Ken's chest. After a few minutes, he moved down, kissing each ridge of Ken's abs. With his left hand Brad palmed Ken's left pec while using his little finger to rub circles around the nipple. With his right hand he reached down to grab Ken's throbbing dick and start gently kissing the head. He only gave it a few kisses before taking the head into the heat of his mouth.

"Ohhhhhh fuck Brad... that feels soooo good man."

As he moved his body down so he could take more of Ken's dick in his mouth, Brad made sure his own leaking dick was rubbing against Ken's leg. Knowing Ken doesn't like a gentle blow job so he started using his tongue and throat to get him going even more.

With the pleasure Brad was giving him, Ken thought to himself, God I love this man so much. He almost started to tear up from the emotions he was feeling.

After about five minutes of Brad working over Ken's dick he pulled off and said, "Ok buddy you've worn me out. I need a recharge courtesy of Ken Jr." With that he got up and straddled Ken's stomach again and lifted himself up to give Ken access to him. With one hand on Ken's chest to keep him balanced, he reached back with his other hand and guided Ken's dick into his warm waiting hole.

Ken smiled and when he felt the head of his dick touch Brad's opening he started gently but firmly pressing forward. Brad felt the initial sting of pain from the big head of Ken's dick, but that's why he usually started on top, so he could control the entry at his own pace. Ken is always gentle and never pushed before Brad was ready. Ken tightened his abs and pulled himself up slightly so he could reach more of Brad's body; he loved the feel of Brad's bare skin, so soft and yet hard with muscle; and right now all sweaty. His hands roamed up and down Brad's furry abs and chest, and occasionally reached down to jack his dick a few times, getting it slick with all the precum leaking out. Ken's dick was already slick from spit and he was furiously leaking so it wasn't a problem sliding in. It only took a couple of minutes before Brad was sitting all the way down and feeling Ken's pelvis against his butt. He bounced a few times to make sure the pain was gone, and then he leaned forward and kissed Ken long and hard. As soon as their tongues touched Ken started to grind his hips, slowly driving himself with long full strokes into his lover. He could feel Brad's arms shaking a little, and realized how much effort he had put into the massage. Brad never complained, and gives more than 100% of himself to keep Ken in top shape, regardless of the toll it takes on his own body. Besides, like Brad always says, his reward is a recharge like nothing he could ever have imagined all those years ago.

"Hey B, let's flip over bro so I can take care of you now." With that he sat up, and put his arms around Brad's back, while Brad moved his legs around Ken's waist and locked his ankles together. Ken effortlessly flipped them about two feet off the mattress and twisted them in the air so Brad landed on his back with Ken on top of him. He learned early on to brace himself for this maneuver, because even though he is a strong guy having Ken's heavy frame come down on him could take his breath away if it caught him by surprise. As soon as they stopped bouncing on the mattress Ken lifted himself by his arms to ease his weight off Brad a little and started full stroking his dick into his lover. Brad raised his hips and Ken lowered his aim so his dick started to rub itself over Brad's prostrate with every stroke.

"Ohhhhhh...God Ken. Buddy... if you only knew how you make me feel when you do that..."

Ken had been having thoughts about extending his physical connection to Brad for a while, and he even brought the idea up to Dr. Thomas a while back, who didn't say much but didn't try to talk him out of it either. Brad's comment sparked the memory, so Ken went to the part of his mind where long ago learned to control his physical abilities. It doesn't take as much concentration as it used to... he is definitely getting more accomplished at his control. He visualized his and Brad's bodies merging together in his mind and held the image in his brain.

Brad immediately knew that something changed... he felt dizzy for a second and felt some odd sensations. Ken realized something just happened but wasn't sure what and he was terrified that he might have hurt his best friend. He shut down immediately and grabbed Brad's face in his hands he looked him in the eye for some type of reaction.

"Brad are you ok?"

"Yeah what the fuck did you do man?"

"I was tryin somethin new.... When you said if you only knew how you make me feel I wanted to see if I could do that."

With a smile on his face Brad said, "Well shit dude - a little warning next time you bastard."

Ken looked embarrassed. "Sorry man didn't mean to ruin the mood. It was a stupid idea."

"Hell no man I think it's awesome, and now that I know what you were trying to do what I felt makes sense. Try it again."

"Are you sure? I'd never forgive myself if I hurt you."

Brad laughed and said, "Dude you couldn't hurt me if you tried; apart of breaking my body in half without breakin a sweat."

Grinning at his lover, Ken went back to that place in his mind, and he started pumping his dick into Brad again. This time with both of them aware of what was happening it seemed to be working.

Brad could feel the sensations that Ken was feeling while fucking his ass, and Ken started to feel like it was his prostrate that was getting rubbed, driving them both into a bit of a frenzy. Both of them started sweating and both their bodies started getting pumped up. The cords in Ken's arms were standing out and veins started showing across his upper chest and shoulders. Brad started running his hands all over Ken's pumped up muscles... his body now turned into hard smooth marble. Reaching up, Brad wrapped his arms around Ken's massive shoulders and hung on for dear life. Ken kept up his stroking, holding back because he didn't want to hurt Brad.

Brad hugged Ken as tightly as he could, and pressed his cheek against Kens and whispered over and over in Ken's ear "God I love you man... don't stop... don't ever stop." With this new connection Brad felt his own hot breath in Ken's ear and it turned him on even more.

The sensation of sharing each other's pleasure in this new way drove both of them over the edge. It wasn't like they each had an orgasm... they had the same orgasm. Their bodies, unable to stand the pleasure anymore, both shot at the same time...Ken into Brad's ass and Brad shot all over Ken's chest and abs. The orgasm seemed to go on for almost a minute. Brad could feel the heat of Kens cum shooting into his insides; shot after shot. It always felt hot but this time it was more like molten lava. Right away his body felt invigorated as strength flooded into him. It always happened after Ken shot into him but never this fast or this hard.

Ken had never broken out into such a sweat before when they make out... but now he was drenched. They held tight onto one another... enjoying the post orgasmic euphoria and not wanting the feeling to end. The emotions they both felt were extremely intense; far more powerful and gut-wrenching than ever before.

After a few minutes both of them said at the same time, "Shit man that was amazing." Then they both burst out laughing, and hugged each other tighter. Their bodies were stuck together with sweat and Brad's cum. Brad quietly said, "Hey bro hold on tight for a sec I wanna try something." With that he flipped them both over again so he was now on top. The bed creaked loudly when they landed. Ken's eyes went wide and he looked at Brad and said, "Fuck B, how did you do that!?"

"Man I'm rushed right now. It's never happened this fast or this strong before. I always feel charged up, or recharged as the case may be, when you go off in me, but this time with that new trick it was almost overwhelming. But in a good way."

Moving over his lover he leaned down to kiss Ken again. After a long passionate kiss, he looked into Ken's eyes. They just lay there staring into each other's eyes and both of them started to tear up. That was when Brad noticed a weird gleam in Ken's eyes. Not a glow, but his green eyes seemed to get lighter for a brief second, almost white, and then go back to their normal color.

Ken, never one to let a serious situation go to waste, blurted out, "God we are two pansies. Who ordered the water works." Brad couldn't help but bust out laughing and he let himself collapse onto Ken's body, to just hold on and hug him as tightly as he could.

After a few minutes Brad rolled off to the side and they just lay there facing one another. Looking into each other's eyes they both had one hand propping up their heads while their other hand roamed over the others body, just caressing each other and taking each other in.

After a little while, Brad said "You know we need to talk to the Doc about this, and probably sooner than later. I might call him and head over to the Lab to meet him when you head out for work. And speaking of work, I need to get you some dinner before you go, so as much as I wanna lay here and have endless repeat performances of your new found ability, we need to get up. Let's jump in the shower quick and then I'll get the food started while you get ready."

Brad was always the practical one, and Ken appreciated it. "Well I don't know about endless repeat performances, but you are right. Damn I'm hungry... in fact way hungrier than normal. I think that might have taken a bit out of me bro."

Brad sat up and pulled Ken up to. He had a serious look on his face and seemed concerned. "Sit here and don't move." He rarely used the stern voice so Ken didn't move.

"What the fuck bro, I feel fine... that was the most awesome sex we've ever had and it just took a little more out of me than usual. It's all good."

Brad grabbed a small black medical bag that was just inside the closet on the floor. He pulled out a blood pressure sleeve and a stethoscope. He took Ken's blood pressure and listened to his heart.

"Just humor me and don't fuck around okay? This is new and we don't know if there will be any side effects. In fact you should probably get one of the other guys to cover for you tonight and go with me to see the doc. Everything seems fine now though, so if you are just hungry it's all probably ok. Let me test your blood sugar just to be safe." Everything seemed to be normal, but his appetite coupled with that funny thing with his eye color had Brad a bit concerned. He didn't mention the eye thing to Ken.

"There's no way I'm calling in sick tonight dude. I'm already covering for Kev tonight, so I'd look like a douche if I did that."

"Well you are a douche, so you need to come up with another excuse."

"Ok fucker, you are askin for it." With that Ken stood up and caught Brad completely off guard by picking him up and throwing him over his big shoulder in a fireman's carry and into the bathroom. Laughing, Brad called him more names, and let himself be manhandled by his best friend and lover.

They showered together, and although they each got a raging hard on, they knew they didn't have time to fool around. So they dried off, and Brad threw on his shorts and headed to the kitchen while Ken started getting ready for work.

Brad threw together an amazing quick meal of stir fried ginger chicken and vegetables. There was left over brown rice from the night before so he re-heated that and had their plates on the table in about twenty minutes.

Ken came down the hall in his black dress slacks and shiny black shoes with no shirt on. He looked like a stripper halfway through his act. His body still had that ultra-healthy glow from the massage oil, which the shower somehow never washes off. Brad watched him as he came down the hallway, wishing they had time for another round of sex before Ken had to leave for work.

When Ken walked into the kitchen and saw Brad staring at him, he snickered, "Dude, don't' drool, it's not becoming. I thought you were a professional."

Brad laughed and said, "Well, I was expecting a fully dressed drop dead gorgeous hi-powered private security agent not a chip-in-dale stripper... Sorry bro, my bad."

"I didn't want to get any food on my shirt."

"Dig in. There's plenty here. I warmed up all the rice from last night since you said you were hungry and I threw in another chicken breast since they hadn't frozen yet from the grocery store."

Brad had filled his own plate but he really just wanted to sit there and watch Ken eat. He loved to watch the muscles in his jaw as he chewed and how his throat flexed when he swallowed. Ken saw him looking again and stopped mid chew.

With his mouth full he tried to say, "Dude wha the fuchh" and started laughing.

"I don't know Ken." Brad looked down at his plate. He wasn't sure where this was coming from but he was a suddenly overwhelmed by his emotions. Something was rapidly coming to the surface he wasn't prepared for. "Fuck! I'm sorry..."He lowered his head and his shoulders started to shake and his eyes filled with hot tears.

Ken was shocked and he rushed over to kneel beside Brad's chair and pull him into a hug. "B what's wrong man? Seriously, talk to me buddy. What's goin on?"

It took a minute for Brad to get himself under control. Just holding onto Ken's strong body and feeling the heat coming off of him helped to calm him down. There was no safer feeling to him in the world than in those big arms and against that hard chest. Ken's hands were comforting... one was rubbing the back of his head and neck and the other one was rubbing up and down his back.

"Damn I don't know why I'm crying. I was just sitting there looking at you and then all of the sudden these emotions just came up out of nowhere. It's all a bit jumbled. I'm already feeling better. Thanks man, I didn't mean to be a pansy."

Ken held him by the shoulders and looked straight into Brad's eyes, just looking to see if he could sense anything wrong. He brushed the remaining tears away with his thumbs.

"Alright maybe that new trick was stupid to try. I should've known somethin like this could happen."

"Don't blame yourself man, the doc pretty much said to try it."

"Yeah but its uncharted territory and we all know how that can lead to unforeseen consequences."

"I think it's all just a temporary adjustment... I'm sure the doc can explain it better, but I think our nervous systems temporarily kind of linked, and your hunger and this emotional thing with me are like little aftershocks."

"Oh God you just sounded intelligent, now I know somethin's wrong!" Brad couldn't help but laugh, which made him feel even more normal.

"Alright stud, go finish gettin dressed or you're going to be late."

Ken took off down the hall, and Brad took advantage to watch his ass in those slacks.

A few minutes later, while Brad finished getting the plates into the dishwasher and everything cleaned up, Ken came strutting down the hallway fully dressed.

"OK, no jokes, how do I look?" As he said that he pulled on his aviator sunglasses.

"Like a badass security agent. I pity the fool who wants to mess with your client with you on the job."

"Now that's what I wanted to hear; why can't you be this supportive all the time shithead." Ken had to dodge the dish towel that came flying his way.

"Ok B I gotta hit the road. I'm not sure when I'll be home... the club our client wants to go to closes at 4am, and if she decides to stay, and then hit the Waffle House after who knows how late, or early tomorrow, it could be."

"Alright bro." Brad moved over and gave Ken a quick parting kiss. He straightened the jacket more squarely on Ken's shoulders and said, "Damn you smell great. Have a good night and be careful. And if the doc clears it I want more of the best sex we've ever had tomorrow, so don't wear yourself out." Ken flashed Brad his sexiest smile and did a double eyebrow raise.

Ken flipped the security switch and there was that slight thunk again as the doors and window seals pulled back, and the slight change in air pressure. Brad felt it far more than he usually did and it surprised him. As soon as the house was out of 'vault' mode Brad could see the subtle shift in Ken's demeanor. He started exuding an air of seriousness and had a 'don't' fuck with me attitude.' The kitchen door shut and Brad was alone in the house.

Brad heard the garage door open and Ken's Explorer start up and pull out of the driveway.

Brad sent the Doc a text message to call him with a 711 code, which meant it's urgent to call me back but not life threatening. The secure phone in the office rang within seconds.

"Doc?"

"Yes, Bradford, what is it?" The doctor always called the men by their formal names.

"I was wondering if we could meet at the Lab tonight. Something happened that I need to discuss with you. And I think it needs to be sooner rather than later, if at all possible, sir."

"Of course, of course. If I leave now I can be there in 20-25 minutes. If you do not mind, could I beg a favor of you?"

"Yes sir, of course sir, I already think I know what you have in mind. A number 4 platter, add a chicken plank, extra fries, no slaw, and a large sweet tea?"

"You are truly a remarkable young man, Bradford."

"No problem, sir. I wouldn't mind getting myself some tea as well, I'm a bit parched."

"Very good, Bradford. And don't forget extra ketchup!"

"Never, sir." With a smile Brad hung up the phone and headed to the Long John Silver's just around the corner from the house before heading over to the Lab.

Brad stopped and got Dr. Thomas his food, and then he made his way over to the Lab. They all called it the Lab, but it was really an old health care facility that the doc had renovated to suit his purposes. There was a front office with a legitimate business – it ran blood and urine tests for local doctors' offices that didn't have their own equipment.

No one knew how he pulled it off, but there is actually a very large sub-basement in the building that comprises the whole facility they call the Lab. The entrance was through the back via security cards the doc issued everyone. It's very private and none of the Team ever saw any of the Lab workers from the front office. The building has a special gym for Ken and the other enhanced Team members, as well as extra rooms on the medical side for sleeping or in case of physical emergencies if someone got hurt. The doctor could perform full blown surgery if necessary.

As soon as Brad got there he put the doc's food in the one open spot on his cluttered desk, and hooked up his tablet to download today's data. Typically the Lab wasn't connected to the internet as the doc doesn't trust some hacker not to break in. There is a hi-jacked satellite link to some Government computer systems but the doc doesn't say much about that and it's only used when absolutely necessary. Other than that everyone had their own computers and the doc developed almost all of his own applications and data bases that he used in his research. He seemed light years ahead of what even the US Military had at its disposal. From Brad's time in the Navy he saw some big systems but nothing to match what the Doc put together.

Brad heard the doctor come in and after a minute heard him call out, "Bradford!?" Brad got up and went back to the Doc's office.

"Hello sir. Thanks so much for meeting me on such short notice."

"Not at all Bradford, not at all. If you do not mind I am starving so I am going to eat, and you can fill me in on what you wish to discuss."

"Well sir, Ken told me he had discussed this with you at some point, and while you didn't actually encourage him to go through with it, he said you didn't prohibit the attempt either. I was giving him his post workout exam today, which you know can lead to some extra-curricular activities."

The edge of the doctor's mouth rose almost imperceptibly in a smile when Brad said that.

"In the heat of the moment I made a comment .... Something to the effect of I wish you could feel what you are doing to me. Well I got dizzy almost immediately, and Ken noticed and stopped it right away. He asked me if I was alright and I asked him what he had done. He told me he tried a new technique, where he wanted us to share our physical experience and sensations. Once I knew what he was trying I understood better what I was feeling and told him to try again. Sir, it was the most amazing experience either one of has ever had. After we finished though, I noticed something odd, and there seemed to be a few physical side effects."

"Ken, well he didn't really complain, but he said whatever he did must have taken a lot out of him because he was really hungry; and sir I don't think he noticed how much he actually ate before he left the house. I fixed enough dinner for at least four people and he ate everything that I didn't. He also began to sweat profusely for a few minutes, which he rarely ever does. For myself sir, well, as you know I gain some temporary benefits from our activity as well, but this time it happened much faster and quicker than normal, and the effects are both stronger and lasting longer as well. I also experienced a small emotional rush that was very intense that lasted for a few minutes. It was very disturbing and unsettling."

During the debriefing the Doctor didn't say a word. He spent most of his time opening packets of ketchup before digging in to his fish and chicken.

"You mentioned something else... something odd. What was that?" The doctor sat there taking all this in with not a hint of surprise or concern, which made Brad feel a lot better.

"Well, sir, a few minutes after we finished our activity, I noticed that Ken's eye color changed briefly. His eyes, as you know are green, and they very briefly turned a light shade of green, almost white. It wasn't a glow like in the movies, or on TV, just a change in color."

"So we can strike possession by a Goa'uld off our list?" Brad just looked at him stunned for a second, he had no idea the doctor was a Stargate SG-1 fan!

"Um... yes sir, I believe we can." Brad had to hold in a chuckle, and couldn't help but crack a brief smile at the doctor's joke. He had a very dry sense of humor and half the time no one got his jokes or didn't know if he was joking or serious.

"This is all very interesting Bradford. Not unexpected, but interesting. It seems Kenneth has taken a very big step on his own. He is starting to unlock another part of himself, which he will have to learn how to deal with just as all the other changes he has dealt with. I do not think there is anything to necessarily worry about, but there are some precautions I think you should both take. The next time Kenneth is able to come in, I would like to sit down with you both and have a discussion. Until then I think you can both explore this as you see fit as long as it is under the protection of your home."

"Thank you sir, it's a huge relief to know that this isn't totally unexpected. What about the side effects on me? I still feel pretty charged up and it's usually about this time that it starts to fade."

"In the future, when this new ability is employed, after your coupling with Kenneth, you should feel the effects more strongly and for a longer period of time. It might be necessary for some additional training on your part to cope with the changes. There is a reason for the increase in the strength and duration for you, and it has to do with your pairing with Kenneth and your role of supporting him both physically and emotionally. I will not say more at this time, until we have a chance to sit down together. The only thing I would ask, Bradford, is that you not mention this to any of the others just yet. They are probably not ready for this step and I do not want to cause them any alarm or anxiety."

"Of course, sir. I totally understand and I'll make sure that Ken doesn't inadvertently spill the beans."

Ken pulled out of the driveway and headed towards the office. He and the other members of the Program had all started a private security firm together a few years ago. Originally they all wanted to split up and do their own thing, but Dr. Thomas insisted that they stay together. As long as they kept a low profile they should be fine. The US Government, the few members that even knew they ever existed, thought they were all dead. The doc worked some of his technological voodoo and erased all records of them, so no one even had records of their names, or pictures. Over time any and all evidence had been erased. None of them had any family, which is one of the reasons they had been selected to begin with for the Program.

Ken called the office to check in for tonight's job. He pushed the phone button on the console of his Explorer and said "Call Sally." A few seconds later the phone rang through the speakers. Sally picked up after two rings "TGH Securities, how may I help you?"

"Hey Sally this is Ken. I'm headed downtown. Do I need to stop by the office for anything before I head down to the hotel?"

"Hey Ken, I forgot you were filling in for Kevin tonight. How are ya honey?"

"I'm actually doing pretty fuckin fantastic."

"Well we both know what that means. Is Brad home recovering?"

Laughing loudly, Ken said "Yeah I think I wore him out tonight. We tried something new and it was over the top. Best. Sex. Ever."

"Well it's nice to know that someone is having good hot sex. I wish I could say that."

"Never fear sweetie, your prince charming is out there somewhere!"

"Well tell him to get a move on! I'm getting tired of waiting. Don't you have any straight friends that are as good looking as you and Brad you could hook me up with?"

"Sorry sugar."

"Story of my life. Oh well, back to tonight's job. There's no reason to come by unless you want to stop by and see me. I can email you all the information you need for tonight."

"As much as I would love to come by and snuggle, I'm running on a tight schedule so I'd better not push it."

"I think the only thing tight about you right now is those fine black slacks I know you are wearing to cover that sweet tush. I'm getting flushed just thinking about that hot ass." Ken definitely had the image of her fanning her face when she said that and he smiled to himself. All the guys loved Sally – she was a god send to all of them and kept the company running while they were all out in the field. She knew they were all gay, but she still flirted with all of them. His phone buzzed, which was probably the email Sally just sent.

"I know I've said this a thousand times Sally but thanks for putting up with all our shit, and keeping us straight... err well you know what I mean. I just got your email so I should be all set. I'll call you if I need clarification on anything."

"Ok Ken. You take care of yourself tonight. I know the type of crowd you'll be in and there just might be some stray hands trying to cop a feel. And I know these types of events tend to get violent when it gets late after everyone is either drunk or high."

"I will Sally. Don't worry about me. I'll check in tomorrow to go over the billing information from tonight."

"Alright Ken. Have a good night."

"You too, Sally."

Ken pulled up to the valet parking at the Hilton in downtown Atlanta. He checked in with the hotel security and got everything situated. He had his earpiece set to listen to the hotel security frequency just in case.

Tonight's client was some up and coming wrapper named Lil'B who had managed nearly overnight success. Personally Ken doesn't like Rap or Hip Hop; it wasn't a part of his generation. He also didn't like the culture of violence that seemed to go everywhere wrappers performed. Someone always manages to sneak a few guns in past the hotel security, and when the drinking starts someone always gets insulted and feels like they have to demand respect at gunpoint.

He went to find a bathroom to check himself over. Looking in the mirror he had to admit he looked intimidating. And fucking hot. Black suit, white shirt, purple tie, and the aviator sun glasses topped it all off. He couldn't look more like a G-Man if he tried, which for tonight would suit his purposes just fine.

The limo was an hour late, but Ken wasn't worried because his duties didn't start until the limo pulled up to the front door. He just stood around and looked intimidating while he waited.

Ken moved to the door of the limo and introduced himself to the driver and showed his ID. The Limo driver opened the door and then stood back. Ken reached out a hand to help the woman out.

As she leaned over he introduced himself. "Good evening ma'am. My name is Ken Habersham and I'll be your security escort for this evening. Please try to stay close to me at all times for your own protection."

"Damn nigga could you be any more white?"

Ken had to laugh at that, "No ma'am probably not."

She looked him up and down... "Mmmm mmmm MMMM Dayumm you are fine! I won't have any trouble stayin close to that ass." Except for her language, which Ken found mostly obnoxious, this wrapper seemed to be a fairly nice young lady.

Lil'B's entourage was huge, and so many people showed up there was no way everyone could get to Buckhead and go clubbing, so the party stayed in the Hotel. The Hotel ended up opening three additional suites adjacent to the one the main party was in. The evening was actually going pretty smooth until about 1am. Ken heard the commotion out in the hallway just outside the suite the party was in. He hoped that hotel security could handle it. He only would have to deal with the problem if it came into the room and involved his client. He could hear chatter over hotel security. Just as he heard, "I'm gonna need some help....!"

Someone out in the hallway shouted, "Lil'B get yo bitch ass out here now!"

Ken leaned over and asked his client, "Ma'am do you know that man yelling out in the hallway?"

Ken read her body language immediately and knew that she was scared. "He's my ex. Nigga thinks he owns me and says I owe him money from my music."

"Ok ma'am. There's nothing to worry about. I'm going to go out and take care of this before he even gets close to you. What's his name?"

"Musab. But if you wanna piss him off call him Tyrone, that's his real name." About that time the unconscious body of one of the hotel security guards flew into the room, hitting a large group of people and knocking most of them down. There was blood on the guys face. Drinks went flying everywhere. Lil'B let out a squeal and literally climbed up on the back of the big overstuffed chair she was sitting in. A lot of people were screaming and people started generally panicking.

Ken watched Tyrone move into the room, and saw that he brought a few friends. Tyrone was a big guy, at least 6' 5" if not a little taller, and pretty muscular. The goons with him were pretty big too.

Ken stepped up and planted himself in front of Lil'B. "I'm sorry sir but you are not stepping any closer to my client. You need to leave. Now. Consider this your only warning."

"Nigga you better git outta my bizness! I'm here to get what I got cummin to me! You get outta my face or..." Ken wasn't sure if it was a knife or a gun he was going for but it didn't matter. Faster than anyone could see Ken's fist connected right in the solar plexus of Tyrone's big chest. All of the air in Tyrone's lungs exited out of his body in a heartbeat and his body flew back about 5 feet and he landed on his ass. The goons backing him up comically looked at each other for just a second and then they all leaped for Ken at the same time. They were quick, Ken gave them that; and moderately strong. But Ken was... well Ken was a genetically enhanced Navy Seal and there weren't many men on the planet outside of his unit that could stand up to him -even all three of these goons together.

Two of them had knives and one of them had a gun. Ken disarmed the gun from the first guy, shattering most, if not all, of the bones in the guys' hand while doing so. The two with knives were on him just as the first guys hand was breaking. To them it felt like they just hit a brick wall. He could see the surprise on their faces just before they lost consciousness. The only bad thing is that one of them ripped the sleeve of Ken's jacket completely off as he fell to the ground, and the other one grabbed at his shirt and ripped it open. At least they didn't break his aviator glasses... that would have been too much and he would have been pissed.

Immediately he turned to Lil'B and asked, "Ma'am, are you alright?" She was shaking all over and her eyes looked like they were about to pop out of her head, but she managed to nod a quick yes. Ken moved over to the unconscious hotel security guard. It looked like his nose was definitely broken and some teeth were missing. That was definitely going to hurt. He was breathing though and that was a good thing. Ken reached up and activated the mic in his ear, "Hotel security this is Ken Habersham, the security agent working for the rapper in Suite 11B. You need to get some people up here pronto. There's been a fight and there are 4 unconscious people, one of them is yours and he's going to need medical attention. There's still one perp here that's about to be unconscious."

Tyrone was still wheezing on the floor trying to get air back into his lungs. Ken pulled off his purple tie and tied Tyrone's hands together. Tyrone was just getting his breath back and started to shout, "What the fuck nigga! Let me up or I'm gonna kick yo ass!" A long string of F-bombs proceeded from his mouth as he started telling Ken what he was going to do to him.

Ken looked back at Lil'B, who still looked shaken up, but she managed to say "Now you see why I dumped his black ass." Ken smirked at her comment, and reached down and gave Tyrone quite a thump to his head and knocked him out cold. Then he moved over and picked up Lil'B just like he would a baby, and moved out of the room, shielding her with his body. He held Lil'B against his chest and she put her arms around his neck. She felt the heat from his body, and his strength, and just like he wanted she started to feel safe. She stopped shaking and by the time he got her to the elevator she wanted to walk on her own. When she spoke she seemed to have lost a little of her attitude. "Damn Ken that was some major GI-Joe, Kung-Fu Panda shit you pulled on Tyrone and his boyz. Thanks white boy." And with that she leaned up and kissed him on the cheek and gave him a fiercely strong hug for such a little body.

On the way down the elevator, Ken had security call the limo and by the time they got to the front door of the hotel the limo was just pulling up.

"Ma'am I think you should call it a night. Tyrone might have a few other friends hanging around."

"Thanks again white boy. And sorry about your suit. At least they didn't break those cool ass glasses."

Ken helped her into the limo and it drove off. He looked over and saw his reflection in the glass lining the front of the hotel. His suit was in tatters, one sleeve missing and his shirt ripped open. He realized people were staring. At first because of the torn clothing and then to try and get a better look at the body that was showing through.

Ken was about to go over and have the valet pull his Explorer up to drive home when he got a call over his ear piece. He forgot he still had to help the cops with the incident report. "Mr. Habersham this is hotel security, we need to get a statement from you about the incident tonight for insurance purposes. The police are taking statements on the side entrance at the loading dock. Please make your way there as soon as you can."

"Alright I'm on my way."

"Thank you, sir."

Being familiar with the hotel, Ken knew where the loading dock was and headed that way. It was late and the side street was dark. He thought it was odd that the police would be using that entrance but they probably just wanted to keep the excitement out of the lobby.

Just as he turned the corner he immediately felt something was wrong. The loading dock was dark and he didn't see any police cars. Even as he moved to flatten himself against the wall to try and lessen his exposure, Ken felt three sharp points of pain, one on his arm and two on his back. Looking down he saw a large dart sticking out of his arm. His combat instincts kicked in immediately and he tried to move back around the corner of the building. His body didn't react fast enough and he realized he was in deep trouble... his vision blurred and he almost passed out. Down on one knee, he instinctively knew he was in trouble but his mind was getting fuzzier by the second and he was having trouble thinking and reacting. He heard a voice say, "Shit man there was enough juice in those darts to drop an elephant and he's till awake."

"Yeah they said he was badass. But this should finish him off so we can get him into the van." Suddenly pain wracked his body and at least two or three Tasers hit him all at once.

He felt his aviator glasses fall off and heard them hit the concrete.

The last thing he heard was, "Damn this guy weighs a fucking ton."

... and then blackness.

The Order –Chapter 2

Brad woke up right before the alarm went off at 6am. He hadn't slept well. He never did when Ken wasn't there. Man I bet he's going to be in a bad mood when he gets home... he hates the all-nighters.

Brad continued his morning routine of going to the gym, running, showering, and then getting something to eat. Brad hoped Ken would be back at the house by the time he was through, but when he opened the garage door Ken's Explorer was still gone.

He started worrying after lunch when he still hadn't heard anything. Brad wasn't one to be a mother hen; he didn't like to be treated that way and he knew Ken didn't either. He was, however, starting to get a little pissed that he hadn't even gotten a text message. He tried to call Ken and his phone went straight to voice mail. He didn't leave a message, figuring Ken would see the missed call and get back to him.

By three o'clock Brad decided to call Kevin. He remembered Ken saying he was filling in for Kevin last night so maybe they might have talked. Kevin didn't pick up so Brad left him a voice message, "Hey Kev, this is Brad. Have you heard from Ken today? He's still not back from last night's job and I haven't heard a word. Give me a call as soon as you can bro. Later."

Brad tried lying out by the pool to take his mind off worrying. He was listening to music on his iPod but he couldn't relax; his anxiety was just getting worse. He got the net out and started to clean the pool even though it didn't need it. With his ear buds in he didn't hear Kevin opening the gate.

At that second a whole series of things happened all at once. Brad felt a sharp pain in his arm and two places on his back. He jerked his arm up and dropped the pole and his back arched from the pain causing him to stumble and drop down on one knee. He saw Kevin running over to him from the gate; his mouth was moving but Brad couldn't hear him. It dawned on him he couldn't hear his iPod anymore either. His body exploded in pain and he started convulsing in agony.

And then blackness...

Something was definitely wrong. Brad's awareness was coming back but everything was dark and quiet. He was sure his eyes were open. He could feel his heartbeat. He tried to talk but couldn't move his mouth.

He had this overwhelming sense of being disconnected from everything; he had never felt so alone and isolated. It wasn't just the darkness, it was the feeling of being totally and completely alone pervading his entire being; filling his mind. He desperately wanted Ken.

He was sure he was in a bed of some kind... it felt like he was lying on sheets and had a pillow under his head. He felt his swimming trunks. He could feel air moving over the skin on his legs, arms, and chest. He remembered being worried about Ken and then massive pain, seeing Kevin and then... here... but everything felt wrong. He was starting to panic. Hot tears formed in his eyes and started to run down his cheeks.

Kevin stood beside the bed Brad was lying in. "Doc! Something's happening! He's crying!" Kevin felt helpless standing there watching over his friend. He wanted to at least hold his hand to try and bring him some comfort, but the Doc insisted that no one have any skin contact with Brad until he said so.

Kevin was confused by what he saw as he came through the gate at Brad and Ken's house. He had just gotten off work and got Brad's voice message, and since he and Bill lived so close he figured he's just run by their house to see what was up.

When he got to the house the garage door was closed and no one answered the front door so he figured Brad was out back at the pool. He went around the side of the house and practically being family, didn't hesitate to open the gate and head on back. If he was lucky maybe Brad was working on his tan – a 'natural. Although he was deeply in love with Bill, just like any hot blooded gay man Kevin loved to see a beautiful naked male body full of muscles and Brad was definitely a looker. As soon as he saw Brad standing there cleaning the pool in his shorts he felt a little disappointed, chuckled to himself, and thought, I'm such a whore.

At that moment he saw Brad jerk his arm and arch his back, and out of nowhere three dark pronounced bruises appeared on his body. From the way he reacted it looked like he got. Brad's face showed surprise for a split second and then Kevin got a shock as Brad's bright blue eyes turned white and then rolled up into his head. Kevin moved as fast as he could towards Brad as he went down to one knee. Just as Kevin as closing the gap between them he saw Brad's body convulse like he was being electrocuted and then he just hit the ground unconscious.

Dr. Thomas came over quickly to Brad's bedside. His voice was quiet and he looked both sad and concerned. "Ah, my poor boy. I know you cannot hear me yet but I am so sorry. It will be better soon."

Dr. Thomas picked up a syringe he had prepared earlier and put it in the catheter attached to the back of Brad's hand. "Kevin, help me strap him down. He is going to wake up soon and he might panic. We need to restrain him so he cannot hurt himself. He may be confused and might not make sense so do not be alarmed."

Brad was near the limit of his control. The agonizing loneliness and isolation was more than he could take. He had never been overtly conscious of his connection to Ken until it wasn't there anymore. The profundity of his love for Ken hit him like a Mack truck, and not feeling Ken's presence, as though he never even existed, was a hole inside him that was about to kill him. As much as he cared for his military brothers and Dr. Thomas, life without Ken wasn't worth living. His mind kept racing out of control with these thoughts. How long had he been here? Days? Weeks? The loneliness seemed to go on forever...

The slightest whisper of a sound in the utter silence jolted him. All his thoughts stopped to listen; every iota of his being straining to feel or hear anything. He heard it again, but it was so faint he couldn't make it out. He felt his body break out into a sweat with the strain of wanting to hear that sound again, to have some proof that he wasn't alone....

Dr. Thomas' face was full of compassion as he looked down at his young charge. He knew what Brad was experiencing and he deeply regretted being the source of such emotional distress. How strange that this entire affair was occurring now, the day after Ken unlocked another of his abilities. It was almost enough to convince him that coincidence existed. Even though the doctor didn't have all the facts yet his impressive intellect was already piecing together parts of this puzzle... and he didn't like the picture that was forming in the slightest.

"Kevin, I need you to get everyone together immediately. This is extremely important and time critical. While you take care of that I will see what information Bradford has that might shed some light on what is happening."

"Yes, Sir. Right away."

Again Dr. Thomas felt a twinge of regret at having to conceal information from Kevin, but he needed to talk to Brad alone. He was still unsure about revealing the new development between Ken and Brad. It was a very important step towards what they were becoming, but it could be dangerous if they weren't ready. Brad and Ken had always been a little more advanced than the rest physically, emotionally, and mentally. The others will reach this stage as well, eventually, but in this path he has set all these amazing young men on, his philosophy was that it was often best to let nature take its course and not interfere more than he already had.

With Kevin gone, the doctor took Brad's hand in his and said, "Bradford. Come back, my boy. It is time to wake up."

The whispers that Brad heard were getting louder and he was on the verge of making out words. He sensed motion, and almost felt seasick. His heart leapt inside his chest when he felt someone take his hand and squeeze it firmly. Ken!? That touch was like an anchor and he fought with every ounce of his will to grab onto it and pull himself towards it.

The darkness was starting to lift... the feeling of movement was getting stronger and he could make out a little pinpoint of light in the midst of all the darkness. The light was getting slowly bigger and he was sure he could hear noise but it was like the volume on his hearing was turned down.

Suddenly he woke up; in an instant his vision and hearing and all his other senses became active again.

Dr. Thomas was looking into Brad's eyes and saw immediately when there was recognition.

"Hello Bradford, welcome back my boy."

Brad wasn't able to speak right away. He felt relieved that he was out of that place, wherever it was, but the void inside of him, the absence of Ken, was still there. The hot tears started falling down his cheeks again and all he could bring himself to say was, "Doc, he's gone." He closed his eyes, his body shaking with grief.

The doctor leaned over and placed his hands on Brad's shoulders. "Bradford, look at me son."

Brad looked up, his eyes red and filled with tears. When he made eye contact with the doctor he saw many things; compassion first and foremost, and concern, but also uncertainty and fear.

"We do not know that. I will not lie to you. He is not with us and I assume he is in great danger, but you are the best chance we have of finding him. I need you to focus on that."

"Why can't I feel him Doc? I never even realized there was this type of connection until it's not there. I've never felt so alone."

"That is my fault, Bradford, and I am deeply sorry. Normally after the trauma you have been through I would handle things very differently. In this instance, because of what you experienced, I have temporarily suppressed the connection you have with Kenneth. It was necessary for multiple reasons. First and foremost it probably saved your life... your new connection to Kenneth is still developing and it is my belief that you were experiencing whatever happened to him. I had to stop it before it killed you."

"Do you think he was killed!? Doc you have to undo whatever you did!" Brad sounded desperate, almost hysterical and he grabbed the doctor's arms. "Please Doc," he pleaded.

"I will son, I will, but we have to be careful and move with some caution. No I do not think Kenneth is dead. You have to remember how hard it would be to kill any of the five, but you, while very tough in your own right, could be killed by what would simply incapacitate one of them. This is new and I do not want to cause you or Kenneth any permanent damage by rushing in blindly. Kevin is gathering everyone here, and in a few minutes you and I are going in to meet with them and we will start formulating a plan. Let us get you cleaned up and into some clothes."

Brad went and took a hot shower and put on some spare clothes from of his locker; just jeans and a t-shirt and some sandals. The doctor came in and gave him a shot – he said it was to continue the suppression of his connection to Ken. He didn't like it but he understood.

Not long after, everyone arrived and was seated at the conference room table. They were all stunned by Brad's haggard appearance when they first came in. Every one of them came over and gave him an encouraging hug or pat on the back and asked how he was holding up.

When Dr. Thomas came in everyone stopped talking and focused on him.

"As you all know, Kenneth appears to be missing. Most likely he has been abducted. No one has attempted to contact us, so we must assume it is not a ransom; which means that they want something from him, and we have a limited amount of time to rescue him before they succeed in getting whatever it is they want from him."

"Bradford, go over all of the events starting from yesterday afternoon to present."

Brad glanced at him, "Everything, Sir?"

"Yes, Bradford. The timing for this is terrible but secrets only serve to cause suspicion and doubt. We will have none of that here."

Brad took a deep breath and said, "Ok... well, Ken got home about five o'clock yesterday afternoon from his workout. I was putting groceries away when he got home. After I was finished I gave him his usual post workout exam, which lead to..."

Trying to lighten the mood, a few of the guys chimed in with a "Boom chica bow wow," which caused Brad to blush and even crack a small smile.

"Alright you fuckers. Yes, we started making out. Sorry about the F-Bomb, doc." Dr. Thomas didn't like cursing.

Brad recounted the events again, telling them everything...

"...and what happened next was the most amazing, mind blowing, over the top sex we've ever had. And the charge I got was unbelievable. I was able to lift both of us off the bed without that much effort."

While there were various looks of "Oh, shit" as this sunk in with them, Kevin blurted out, "Brad, wait a second. When I got to your place and I saw you experience whatever that was, your eyes changed color just like you said Ken's did."

The doctor interjected, "What Kenneth succeeded in doing was linking the nervous systems of he and Bradford. This is what allowed them to feel the sensations of each other. It is truly a remarkable thing. When it is fully under control by both parties, what is currently happening will not be an issue. The timing of Kenneth in uncovering this is bad, but at the same time it might be the key in rescuing him, if our other attempts fail."

"Although I do not know who is behind Kenneth's abduction, I believe I have pieced together some of what happened to him, from evidence exhibited by Bradford's injuries."

"Whoever did this was aware that Kenneth, and most likely you other four, are physically exceptional. They knew they needed to ambush him in order to incapacitate him, and carefully planned their assault. Somehow they orchestrated getting him alone and shot him with three heavy tranquilizer darts following up almost immediately with multiple Tasers."

"The neural pairing between Kenneth and Bradford is still working. This is dangerous, and in the future, when the ability is completely understood and in control, it should not be kept active as it is now. As soon as I stop the suppression, the connection will be active, but it puts Bradford at risk, depending on Kenneth's current condition. There is no way that whoever has taken him will know of this, so we might be able to use it to our advantage."

"I believe that the tranquilizers used to knock Kenneth out, were enough to almost kill him. Fortunately this did not happen, and his metabolism burned through the sedatives earlier today. When this happened the link was reestablished with Bradford, which happened just as Kevin arrived at their house. It was a delayed reaction, and Kenneth inadvertently broadcast what happened to him onto Bradford as his mind woke back up. Bradford's body received the same injuries – it was as if it happened to both of them simultaneously, but with a time delay caused by the tranquilizers."

"I believe that if Kenneth were in control of his faculties, he would realize what is happening and stop it. I do not think he would risk Bradford's wellbeing, even if it meant his own demise. So we have to assume that he is still incapacitated in some way, which is why I am reluctant to stop the suppression."

"Before I will consider taking that route, we need to exhaust all other, more conventional means of investigation. Richard and Loy, you will lead the on-site investigation. You all have your areas of expertise. Bradford, if he is up to it will stay here and run the operation. If he is unable for any reason to continue, then William can take over. Gentlemen, you are the most elite group of men in the world. We know that whoever took Kenneth had the knowledge and skill to take him out unaware. We are not unaware. From now on none of you goes anywhere alone. Stay sharp and alert and we will prevail."

Rick and Loy left immediately to head downtown to the hotel and Pat and Darren went with them. Kevin and Bill went back to the office to talk with Sally. Kevin said he had some ideas that might pan out. Bryan and Lane stayed in the Lab ready to do whatever was needed as more information became available.

Bryan and Lane stayed close to Brad, trying to keep him occupied and keeping an eye on him. Bryan's solid presence was comforting and Lane's chatter kept him from withdrawing further into himself.

Dr. Cromwell looked into the holding cell where the subject was being restrained. The man was one of the most magnificent male specimens he had ever seen... his creator had outdone himself. The name on his driver's license and credit cards found in his wallet said Kenneth Habersham, but he knew those were fake. Despite his best efforts he could not discover this man's former identity. Someone had gone to incredible lengths to make sure this man's past could not be uncovered.

The first blood and tissue samples he had taken showed the man to be in perfect health. The DNA results were phenomenal – and obviously not natural. There were genetic markers he had never seen before. The full MRI and CAT Scans revealed an uncanny muscle and bone density

That was not unexpected, based on the information he had been given from General Burgess. There did seem to be a high level of brain activity, which was extremely intriguing, given the sedatives in his system.

His body was burning through the tranquilizers much faster than expected, so he switched to something less lethal and more mentally disabling. The new mixture was powerful and would keep his brain in a fog, and make him extremely susceptible to suggestion.

As Ken came to his first realization was that he felt awful. The bruises and lacerations on his arm and back hurt like hell. He was sore all over and felt like he needed to throw up. He tried to be still and calm himself but he was having trouble finding his center. The place in his mind where he went to do these things was there but unavailable. It was like there was an invisible wall around them that he couldn't get through. Surprisingly he wasn't upset about it, even though he knew he should be worried. He couldn't see anything – he was blindfolded. He was mostly naked except for some underwear or shorts and he was sitting in a metal chair of some kind. He didn't seem to be able to move. The only other thought he had before he lost consciousness again was "Man, Brad is gonna be pissed I'm late...."

Dr. Cromwell called for Robert to come up to the command center.

"Dr. Cromwell sir? You called?" Robert sounded nervous. He rarely had any interaction with Dr. Cromwell and was both scared and intimidated by the man.

"Yes, Robert. I need your assistance."

"Of course sir, whatever you need I'll be more than happy to help with."

"I'm sure you are aware of our guest, the center of my current research project. We are running a series of tests, and I need a new sample from him. I thought you would be well suited for this task."

Robert was confused, "What type of sample do you need, sir?"

"I need a semen sample. There are things I am looking for that did not show up in the standard urine sample we acquired. I am aware of your personal tastes in men, and I thought you would be well suited to gather this sample for me. He might be difficult to arouse because of the mental state we are keeping him in to prevent his escape. Can you do this for me?"

Robert was stunned. He had no idea the doctor knew he was gay. He stammered a bit, "uh uh of course sir. I'll do my best."

"And, Robert, you haven't seen our test subject yet. I think you will be pleased, and there will be no need to restrain yourself. Do whatever you find necessary to get that sample, multiple samples if you can manage it. We will give you privacy from the other technicians while you perform this task, however we will need to record everything for the sake of our research."

Now Robert was getting excited. "Of course sir, I'll head down to the holding cell immediately. I won't disappoint you sir."

"No, my boy, I'm sure you won't. I'm sure the information you are helping us gather will be invaluable to our research."

When Robert arrived at the door to the holding cell, the glass had already been polarized and was black. The guard swiped his smartcard and the there was a heavy thunk as the door bolts pulled back, and a slight hiss as the seals opened.

Robert stepped into the room and stopped in his tracks, awestruck at what he saw. He had never gotten so hard so fast. This most perfect man of the planet was sitting there in front of him, blindfolded and strapped to a chair. His physique was beyond words; he looked like a comic book superhero. He couldn't imagine how much time this man had to spend at the gym to look he did.

As soon as the door closed behind Robert, Ken's head snapped around in Roberts's direction. When the thunk and hiss of the door stopped, some of the tension seemed to go out of his posture. Robert was lost in a daze, staring at the hunk in front on him, with his hard on straining to break out of his pants.

Robert just stared, his eyes slowly going over every inch of the tanned muscle and he started noticing more and more detail about his man that was driving him wild. He had just the right amount of hair on his chest. He couldn't see the color of the man's eyes because of the blindfold, but in his fantasy his eyes were a dark, dark brown, almost black. His hair was dark brown and short, cut very close on the back and sides and a little longer on the top; he looked military. He hadn't been able to shave for a few days and the scruff on his face made him that much more ruggedly handsome.

The man's voice was rich and deep, resonating and vibrating through his massive chest. But his words were slurred, like he was drunk. "B, is that you bro?"

Robert seized the opportunity and replied, "Yeah, it's me."

"Oh God, B. I was so worried you'd be pissed cause I was late. I can't see you man. I can hear you but I can't see you. Can you let me up."

"No I can't... not yet. This is part of the game."

"Game?"

"Oh yeah... I think you are going to like it." Robert took the sample containers he brought with him and set them on the small table in the room. He took off his Lab coat and loosened his tie. He walked over behind this man and reached out his hands. He could already feel the heat emanating from the man's body.

"B...."

As soon as Robert's hands touched Ken's skin he was like a wild man. He wanted to feel each and every muscle all at the same time. Robert ran his hands though the sparse hair on his chest, squeezing his biceps and shoulders, touching everything he could reach from his vantage point behind the chair. Robert looked down and saw that the guy's shorts were starting to tent.

"Oh God, B... your hands feel so damn good bro. Ohhhh....Don't stop." He threw his head back in pleasure, causing his neck to thicken, which made Robert even harder.

Robert moved around to the front and almost tore the clothes off his body. He was thin, and pale, with a little hair on his chest. He wasn't muscular at all, and any definition he had was because he was so thin and bony. He was sweating from his excitement.

He knelt down and starting running his hands across Ken's chest and started playing with his nipples. He was like a kid in candy store. He wasn't very experienced, and this was a dream come true, to have a hunk like this tied up and blind folded and at his mercy.

Ken was hard and throbbing, leaking precum like a faucet, waiting for Brad's hands and mouth to work their magic on him. Robert saw the wet spot and reached down and freed that monster through the slit in the shorts. It felt so good in his hands, hot and velvety and hard enough to cut diamonds. Robert couldn't wait any longer and leaned over and took as much of the head and shaft into his mouth as he could manage. He had only sucked a few men off so he didn't have much practice, but he didn't have much of a gag reflex so he was hopeful he could manage to get all of that down his throat. He put one hand on each massive thigh and started bobbing his head up and down, and using his tongue as much as possible.

Ken was moaning and throwing his head from side to side.... Brad was such a good cocksucker. The best in the world... the way his tongue danced all over the head of his dick was driving him wild. Ken didn't realize the deception... and his drug hazed mind was causing his own senses to betray him.

Robert looked up and saw all the muscles, squirming as much as the straps allowed, sweating in the pleasure that he, Robert was giving him. Robert's excitement was overwhelming and he started shooting all over Ken's leg. When Ken felt Robert's hot cum squirt on his leg it sent him to the point of no return.

"Oh fuck man I'm gonna cum... don't stop buddy... don't stop!"

Robert knew that this man was going to be a gusher...there was no way such a stud couldn't shoot a gallon of cum and probably cum ten times a day. He knew he should get one of the sample cups but he was too caught up in the moment and the power he felt of being in control of this big stud's orgasm. He pulled up so just the head was in his mouth while his hand stroked the spit slick shaft with long, steady, firm strokes.

"UH, UH, Ohhhhhh Fuckkkkkkkkk!" Ken's entire body tensed, causing all his muscles to flex and contract, showing his amazing definition. He was drenched in sweat and the dark room with the extreme spotlight over Ken cast sharp shadows across his muscles that made him look, if possible, even more sexy to Robert.

Robert thought he was prepared for the flood of cum, but his eyes popped open in surprise. Ken's dick, if possible, went even harder and the head flared out as Ken started squirting his cum into Roberts waiting mouth. Robert tried to swallow as much as he could but it still ran out of his mouth and down his chin.

Ken's chest was heaving and he kept moaning, "Oh fuck, oh fuck, oh fuck...." with every stroke.

Dr. Cromwell was watching from his office. As soon as he saw Ken start to cum he flipped a switch that caused Ken to lose consciousness again almost immediately. He sat back and continued his observations.

Robert was in heaven. He just sucked off the stud of all studs, and the guy was still his to play with. He still needed to get a sample so he would have to work this guy up again right away. The man came enough to fill up one of the cups so if he shot almost as much the next two times he would have plenty for Dr. Cromwell.

He noticed that Ken had stopped moving, and was breathing deeply. "Damn, he fell back asleep." Robert stood up and put his hands on Ken's shoulders and tried to shake him. Kens body barely budged. "Holy crap this guy is solid."

Robert tried harder, but suddenly he felt a little light headed. He started to straighten up just as the most excruciating pain hit his entire body. He couldn't even scream. Robert's back arched and he fell onto the floor in some type of massive seizure. After a few seconds he collapsed on the floor, lifeless, his face a mask of horrible pain.

Dr. Cromwell watched Robert have his seizure and fall to the floor as if he expected it. He wasn't sure how the genetic markers he found in Ken's DNA worked, or how they got there. He was sure that the autopsy results on Robert would shed some light on this. He would learn the secrets of this man and how to duplicate them. General Burgess was paying a high price for this research and expected results. Dr. Cromwell was not one to disappoint powerful allies.

The autopsy showed a massive cellular breakdown in Robert's body. It was as if his DNA was blanked out and with no pattern his cells simply started to come apart. If the process had been slower Robert most likely would have been a big puddle of plasma. As it was the process happened blindingly fast and Robert's body could not stand the assault on his cellular structure and died almost instantly.

Dr. Cromwell knew he was going to have to accelerate things to achieve results. It's a pity that the man could not be spared. "Let us see what you can do, my friend, before that magnificent body gives out."

As Ken regained consciousness, he realized that he was now lying on a metal table, spread eagle. Metal holdings replaced the leather straps – wrists, ankles, chest, biceps, thighs, and abdomen. His head was in a padded leather device that allowed for some movement and was actually quite comfortable. He was still blindfolded. He was naked and he felt dozens of small stinging sensations all over his body.

He could hear movement all around him. Ken immediately tried to go to that place in his mind to focus but found it still unavailable. Ken gave no outward sign of his frustration or worry but he knew he was in trouble. His memory was foggy but he remembered being shot with some type of tranquilizer. He remembered some type of make out session with Brad, which really confused him – maybe that was a dream, but damn it seemed real. Now he was on this table. He normally had a good sense of time, but his internal clock was confused from being unconscious and drugged. He had no idea how long he had been here but it was long enough for him to be incredibly hungry. His stomach rumbled loudly.

Dr. Cromwell was watching him and knew that Ken was now awake. With the test results so far, he had been able to produce much more effective serums to use against Ken's physiology and advanced metabolism.

"Ahhh.... I see you are awake. And famished! Let me see what I can do about that." Dr. Cromwell flipped a switch and a concentrated protein solution started pumping into Ken at multiple points in his body through various catheters. Additional liquids to prevent dehydration and restore electrolytes started feeding into his body. Ken felt an almost immediate boost in his energy level.

Even though his mental faculties were still blocked, his physical senses seemed to be working. He counted 52 points on his body that hurt. Some of them were catheters, but others felt like needles or electrodes.

"We were just finishing getting you ready. Just a few more minutes and we can begin."

With his enhanced senses, Ken could almost visualize the man talking to him. He heard the cloth of the starched Lab coat move, and the slight, practically inaudible squeak of a Lab stool that was rotating as the man moved. He smelled pipe tobacco. The man's English was very fluent but Ken could detect the trace of an accent underneath but he wasn't sure where from yet. If he could figure that out he might start to build some type of understanding of who this man was and what he wanted.

Ken heard typing on a keyboard and then a faint Beep. After a slight delay he felt a burning sensation on the back of his hand as some type of chemical was going through the catheter. He felt warm and flush, and he started to get hard. Ken tried as hard as possible to will his erection down, but he couldn't do it. In seconds his dick was rock hard.

He heard the man get up and move over towards him. He felt the man grip his dick... he was wearing rubber gloves that were cool against the heat of his skin. Suddenly he felt a sharp sting just under the head of his dick, then another on his shaft, and then another, and then two on each of his balls.

Ken decided to break his stoic silence. "What the fuck do you want from me?"

"Nothing you can give me voluntarily. I'm sure you could tell me quite a bit about yourself if you were so inclined, but I could never be sure about the truthfulness of your information. Therefore I have no choice but to gather the information I need through...other means."

Ken didn't like the sound of that.

"We have already gathered much. Although I'm a bit upset about losing one of my up and coming researchers. At least Robert died happy."

Ken knew immediately what he was talking about... that dream about Brad was a hallucination and Ken killed some poor guy without even meaning too.

"This first part you will find most pleasurable, at least at first. Later... not so much. There is nothing you can about it. Fight it all you wish, but it will not matter. I've learned enough already to shut down your brain activity. I intend to learn everything I can from your body while you are still alive and then the rest from your brain after you are dead."

Ken felt totally helpless, and totally pissed. If they wanted a fight he would give them one. He knew that Brad and the others would be looking for him. He had to give them time, and hold out as long as he could. Just thinking of Brad gave his inner resolve a boost. He couldn't help thinking how much he loved the man who was his best friend and lover. He sucked in a deep breath.

"Ok you fucker, quit playin with my dick and get on with it."

"Bravo, my boy. That's the spirit! I want you to fight as long as you can... the longer you last the more information I will be able to gather."

Ken heard the man move away and type on the keyboard again. Beep.

He felt flush again and his body broke out in a light sweat. He heard some fans start up and felt a slight breeze brushing over his skin causing a nice sensation. He was suddenly horny as hell. He heard someone else come over and felt them grab his dick. They just held it firmly.

The orgasm hit him hard and totally from left field. Every muscle in his body tightened and he would have come off the table if he hadn't been held down. Cum started blasting out of his cock, and he heard it splatter into some kind of plastic container. He could barely breathe, his whole body was flexed and went beet red, and he was instantly drenched in sweat.

Dr. Cromwell's eyes opened a little in surprise when Ken's body erupted. The musculature was truly incredible and he found himself getting a little excited, despite his clinical detachment. He would have to review the recordings later.

Ken couldn't help himself and let out a, "Oohhhhh Fuck! Uh, Uh, Uh." He was breathing heavily, his chest heaving, and his abs kept contracting with each pulse of his dick. The orgasm lasted a little over a minute. As he was recovering from the unexpected barrage on his libido he heard the technician moving around a bit and then they grabbed his dick again and held it. Beep.

Ken didn't say anything but he braced himself. Almost before he was ready another orgasm hit him just as hard as the first. This time he forced himself to keep quiet. He felt his body recovering as fluids and proteins were being pumped into him to help him recover. The orgasms were so hard they bordered on painful, but they still didn't hold a candle to the last time he made out with Brad. But that was a one-time event so far. He wasn't sure how long he would hold up if they kept doing this. He hoped they got all the cum they wanted for their research quickly. Beep.

Ken lost track of time and how many orgasms they forced him to endure. He was hurting bad but he didn't want to let it show. They kept pumping fluids and protein into his body, and his body was doing what it was designed to do... recover as quickly as possible.

After an hour, and dozens of orgasms, Ken lost consciousness. His body continued to twitch and spasm even after he lost consciousness.

Dr. Cromwell was more than impressed. The next run he would stop the fluid and protein intake and see how long Ken could last and how his body tried to recover. He was interested in how Ken's physiology would prioritize its recovery.

He forced Ken back to consciousness after only a few minutes. When he came too, Ken was struck by the strong smell in the room. Even though they were capturing his cum, some splattered on him and he must have sweated out a gallon. His mind drifted to Brad to find strength for the next round. Breathing deep and smelling his own sweat and cum he thought "Brad would so love this...."

Ken lost consciousness again after nine orgasms without the replenishment of the fluids and proteins. He stopped sweating at five and from then on the amount of semen steadily dropped until his last orgasm was practically dry. Ken never said a word; he didn't want to give them any satisfaction.

Dr. Cromwell was in awe of the Kens physiology. The way his body controlled and monitored itself, without his conscious control, the way it redirected resources and repaired itself was something he never even thought possible. Whoever created this man was a biological Einstein. He felt like he was only scratching the surface, and it would take him years to process all the data he had already collected. He was getting excited to move on to the next stage.

They gave Ken thirty minutes to recover. They started the flow of fluids and proteins again and let his body regenerate. Someone wiped him down, cleaning off the cum that had splattered out of the containers, and they swabbed him down with some type of antiseptic.

Ken felt like he could sleep for days to recover from all the orgasms. He kept thinking of Brad and the guys looking for him; willing them to move faster. He had a really bad feeling about what was coming next.

He smelled pipe tobacco again and knew that the doctor was back. "Well my boy, you are exceeding anything I could have imagined. Whoever made you is a genius. I am jealous of his intellect and his vision. I am going to make it my life's work to duplicate and even improve upon what he has done."

Ken knew he shouldn't say anything but his intuition was telling him that he was not going to survive this. Instead of prolonging the pain, he would rather have it over sooner. I'm so sorry Brad, I think I've failed you and the guys. I guess I'm being a coward but I don't know if I'm up to this. I love you so much bro, I hope you know that.

"You stupid fucker. Compared to him you are in diapers, sucking on your mom's tit and shitting out guacamole into your huggies. You'll never figure this out. Just get it over with."

Dr. Cromwell's long thin face went stony. His lips pursed a little. "We shall see."

Ken could hear the change in the doctor's tone. His plan worked but he knew he was going to pay for it. Ken heard more typing on the keyboard. He could hear the attitude in the way the keys were being hit harder than usual. Ken started the countdown. Three. Two. One. Beep.

Ken heard a slight hiss. It sounded hydraulic. He felt the shackle holding his right wrist raise up about a quarter of an inch. Not nearly enough to pull his hand through. It slammed back down hard catching him by surprise. Ken didn't know it but that was enough force to break a normal man's wrist.

Ken steeled himself and other than letting out a"Oomph" of surprise he put on a stoic face.

Beep. Again it slammed down, this time much harder. Ken tensed his whole body getting ready for the next one. He started to sweat.

Beep. Ken felt his wrist start to splinter. It took everything he had not to yell. His breath was coming in gasps now from dealing with the pain.

Beep. Ken felt the bone snap. This time he did yell.

Beep. He felt the shackle on his left wrist rise up.

Oh Fuck!

By the time his left wrist snapped his voice was hoarse from screaming. His body was straining and his body tried to arch from the pain, pushing his chest up. He pushed so hard he actually bent the metal piece that went across his chest, and he felt a few ribs break. His body raised just enough so that the blindfold caught on the corner of the leather headpiece he was in. He saw the man who was doing this to him. They made eye contact for a brief second before the pain pushed him over the edge into unconsciousness.

Dr. Cromwell ignored the screams, just watching Ken's body react to the pain and damage he was inflicting. He glanced over towards his monitors and saw them recording everything. The neurological data was off the charts.

He increased the flow of nutrients, and added a highly concentrated mix of vitamins, as well as some antibiotics. He would have included some pain killers if they boy had kept his mouth shut. He kept Ken unconscious for a few more minutes while he set the bones. He wanted them to heal properly so he could break them again if he had to. Next time, he thought, it will be his thigh bones... something bigger and more traumatic to his body. He didn't like the boy's attitude.

Dr. Cromwell was thrilled with the results. Almost before he could set the bones they started knitting themselves back together. At this rate in a matter of hours they would be completely healed.

Next time he would hold back on the nutrients and see how long it takes.

Rick, Loy, Pat, and Darren all drove down town to the Hilton where Ken worked the previous night. They talked with Hotel security, and reviewed the security footage that was available. Tyrone and his goons were still being held by the Atlanta Police, and Lil'B was pressing charges as well as the Hilton. Ken was actually in a little trouble with the Atlanta Police because he never showed up for his incident report. Pat and Darren checked and Ken's Explorer was still in the Parking Garage where the valet had parked it.

None of this was good news. Rick and Loy traced the route that Ken should have taken from the front of the building around to the side street. When they got to the corner Rick scanned the area. They found a broken pair of aviator sunglasses against the curb that looked like they had been run over by multiple cars.

Everyone was getting frustrated. Rick said, "Fuck! If it happened it had to be right here at this corner. At night this spot is out of sight of any of the security cameras, and there are at least two vantage points that someone could have gotten an easy shot off." He pointed to the two side streets about half a block down in either direction. "Let's check 'em both out."

Rick led the way to the first one with Loy right behind him. The first side street didn't show anything unusual at all. The second side street was more of an alley. It had a large dumpster and a bunch of trash cans. A little further in was a big pile of cardboard boxes. One of them was pretty large, like something an appliance might come in. Loy noticed some movement and signaled Rick.

Both men got into position close to the boxes, with their guns ready. As soon as Rick got a little closer he could smell the guy in the box. Someone who hasn't bathed in a long time and drinks alcohol isn't hard to miss, especially when your sense of smell if superior. The recent heat wave just made the smell worse. Even Loy made a face.

Rick relaxed a little and put his gun away, but was still alert in case whoever was here made a run for it. He tapped the big box with his foot and said,"Hey, come out buddy. I need to talk with you." There was no answer. They saw the box move again and heard snoring. Rick smacked the box hard with the flat of his hand making a loud pop when it hit. The guy inside let out a startled scream and shouted, "I.E.D!, I.E.D.!, Take cover!" There was a lot of movement in the box as the guy scrambled down to one corner.

Loy looked at Rick and said, "Nice move dickhead." Rick gave him a 'how the fuck should I have known' look. Loy leaned down at the open end of the box, "Hey bro, its cool. You're safe man. What's your name?"

"Who da fuck are you?"

"I'm Lt. Loy Barton, retired Navy. The dickhead here who is makin all the noise is Lt. Rick Crawford, also retired Navy. Can you please come out? We really want to talk with you." It was obvious the man was a vet, so Loy used their old rank in hopes of getting him to cooperate.

It took the man a minute to crawl out and once he did a pile of crumpled up newspapers came out with him. He had a prosthetic leg below one knee.

When he stood up it took him a second to get his balance but he waived off any help.

"So what's your name soldier?" Loy put out his hand in greeting.

He still looked leery but he shook Loy's hand, and Rick's. "Specialist Taggart Keenan, Army, served with the 197th Infantry. Tag for short."

Tag didn't look good at all. He was African-American, and pretty dark skinned, but his complexion was almost grey. His eyes were bloodshot, and his teeth were yellow. His breath was ungodly and his body odor was worse.

"Tag, were you here last night?"

"Why? Am I in some kind'a trouble?"

"No, not at all. You see, a buddy of ours, another Navy guy, went missing last night. We think someone jumped him right over there," Loy pointed half a block down to the street corner.

"If you were here, did you see or hear anything strange last night?"

"Maybe." They could see where this was going.

"Look, Tag. This is really important and you would be doing us a huge favor if you can give us anything at all. I'm not going to give you any money because I know what you would do with it. I'll be happy to get you something to eat in exchange for your help. Are you hungry?"

Tag nodded his head.

"There's a McDonald's a few blocks down. Does that sound good?"

Tag nodded again. "Gimme a sec." He leaned over and started fiddling with the harness on his leg that held on the prosthesis. It was loose, which is why he was having trouble standing up. He probably lost so much weight after his original fitting that it no longer gripped properly. His hands were shaking so bad he was having trouble. Without making a big deal about it so as not to embarrass Tag, Loy squatted down and said "Here bro let me do this." Tag just kind of stood there while Loy tightened up the harness so it was more stable. "Good to go, now."

Tag's thank you was barely a murmur. He was confused as to who these guys were or what they wanted; some bullshit story about a friend that was in trouble. But for some reason he didn't understand he trusted both of them... especially Rick, and he was the dickhead who banged on his box! For the first time in days he seemed to have a little mental clarity. The fog his brain had been in for god knows how long seemed to be unraveling a little. And he was starving.

They walked down to the McDonald's and Loy let Tag order what he wanted. The shift Manager didn't want Tag there and came out from behind the counter once someone complained that a homeless guy had come into the store. Rick and Loy both were as intimidating as possible with the Manager and said they would sit over in a corner and not disturb anyone, but they needed to talk with their friend. Loy went full on mental with the Manager and almost scared him so bad he came close to peeing in is pants. In hindsight be might have gone a little overboard, but he felt defensive on behalf of Tag on top of the urgency to find Ken.

Once Tag was full and drinking his shake, Loy broached the subject of Ken again. "So Tag, did you see or hear anything last night."

"Mmmm hmmm." Slurp.

"I'll be straight wit ya... I was majorly fucked up last night. But I heard someone right outside where I was tryin ta sleep. I was scared so I was bein quiet. I took a look out and saw a few guys. Big, but not as big as you two. They was dressed all in black and I know they was wearin night vision goggles. Two of them had pretty nasty lookin rifles. They was drivin a black van and had it backed up right off the street. I thought I was just trippin at first, so I shut up and closed my eyes."

"A few minutes later I heard them makin some noise. They was bitchin about how heavy some dude was. Sounds like they threw him in the back of the van and then they took off. Didn't think no mo about it til you two showed up. Thought it must have just been a dream, or some sucker got what was comin to him. Now I ain't so sure."

"Thanks Tag, that is a huge help. You gonna be ok if we take off now?"

"Yeah. Thanks for the chow."

Loy took out one of his business cards and handed it to Tag. "Look, Tag. I'm not sure if you are in a place right now where you want any help. I have no idea what your story is brother, but if you want some help, and you wanna get out of that box, call this number and ask for me or Rick. No pressure, just think it over." Tag stuffed the card into his pocket and slurped the last of his shake.

Rick and Loy left to meet back up with Pat and Darren. Darren wanted to check with some of the banks in the area to see if their ATM cameras might have caught anything useful. Rick and Loy headed back.

When they got back, Kevin and Bill were already there as well. Kevin's lead back at the agency didn't pan out.

Brad was looking rough, but was holding his shit together for Ken's sake.

Pat and Darren called in on their way back. The banks were cooperative and the Wells Fargo ATM picked up some images. They saw footage of a black van, but didn't get the license plate or anything significant, not even the make or model. The timestamp on the footage from the first bank was 2:13am which fit the timeline of when Ken was taken. So now they knew when, where, and how Ken had been taken but very little else.

The next few days were frustrating for everyone. Brad needed to stay in the Lab with Dr. Thomas and the others left only when absolutely necessary. Sally was trying to sub out as many of their appointments as possible to give them all time to focus on finding Ken.

On the third day, Brad called everyone into the conference room. He looked like death warmed over. He hardly had any sleep the last three days and his eyes were bloodshot with dark circles under them. He hadn't shaved and his blond beard was thick and unkempt. Because of the suppression serum he couldn't take normal sedatives that would help him sleep.

Everyone was quiet; many eyes were downcast in frustration. All of them, especially Brad, felt like they were failing Ken.

Brad's voice as flat and he said, "Before I start, I just want to ask one more time if anyone has any new ideas. I appreciate the efforts you have all put in so far. I want you to know that."

No one spoke up. Brad felt like Ken was slipping further and further away.

"Doc, you said you would consider stopping the suppression only after we exhausted all the normal means of investigation. I think it's time, don't you?"

"I know the answer to this already, but my conscious tells me I must ask anyways, Bradford. This is very dangerous and it could prove fatal. You know that Kenneth would not want your death. Are you sure you want to do this?"

"Pardon the expression Doc, my life isn't worth shit if Ken's not in it. He means everything to me. I'll gladly lie down my life to save his. Please do this... for both of us."

The doctor's face was solemn when and he said "Alright Bradford. Follow me. Everyone else stay in the Lab until further notice." As Brad and the doctor were leaving the room everyone stood up. Kevin called out, "Brad!" Brad stopped and looked back. "No one is dying here, you got that? Not you and not Ken. Do you understand?" Everyone stood by Kevin, so it was obvious that he was the one that said the words, but they were from everyone. Brad could see the love and support in their faces. He managed a nod, and headed out to follow the doctor.

"Take off all your clothes and lie down on the table. I need to be able to see as much of your body as possible, in case any further bruising or marks appear. This will give us an indication of what condition Kenneth is in physically. I am going to strap you down so you will not be able to hurt yourself if something goes wrong."

Brad watched as the doctor filled the syringe and put it into the catheter to administer it to him. He watched the liquid run through the tube and into his body.

"How long, Doc?"

"Just a few more seconds and you should start to feel it. Bradford, you must realize at the physical distance you are at right now, Kenneth will not feel your presence or have any awareness of you. It is different when you are together and in physical contact."

It started out as a slight tickle in the back of his brain. Brad's eyes went wide, and he suddenly felt Ken's presence flooding back into him.

Brad felt all the wires and electrodes connected to Ken's body. His mind felt funny. Not foggy but... strange. His vision went dark, and he had a slight panic attack that he was going back to that lonely void without Ken. But this was different... he felt the blindfold and realized why he couldn't see.

"Doc! Its working!" Thank god Ken, you're alive! Tears of relief filled Brad's eyes.

"He's blindfolded, and strapped down to some sort of table."

Dr. Thomas let out a sigh of relief as well. They had confirmation Kenneth was still alive, which would rekindle the desire to find and rescue him.

Brad blurted out, "Ok you fucker, quit playin with my dick and get on with it."

Dr. Thomas could see all the little red spots appearing over Brad's body where Ken had electrodes and catheters attached.

He felt flush again and his body broke out in a light sweat. He heard some fans start up and felt a slight breeze brushing over his skin causing a nice sensation. He was suddenly horny as hell. He heard someone else come over and felt them grab his dick. They just held it firmly.

Suddenly Brad's body tensed up, and flushed, and he broke out into a sweat. He was immediately hard and then cum started flying from his manhood. It caught both he and Dr. Thomas by surprise.

Brad realized that Dr. Thomas was talking to him... it was hard to hear him. He was lost in what was happening to Ken and it was like couldn't be in two places at once.

"Bradford! Listen! Can you hear me?"

"I... I... can hear... you. It's hard to focus.... When I'm there I'm not here... not so much."

"Good. Bradford listen to me carefully. I am not sure how long it will be safe to continue this. If you try you should be able to hear what he is hearing as well, not just what he is feeling. The tactile sense is always the strongest... you should be able to hear and smell everything that he is experiencing. Try to focus and see if you can find a clue as to where he is or who he is with."

"Oohhhhh Fuck! Uh, Uh, Uh."

"Sorry Doc that wasn't me!"

Someone grabbed his dick again and then his body spasm'd as another powerful orgasm hit him. The first shot flew over his shoulder. His chest and abs were covered with cum.

"Bradford I do not like this.... Maybe I should stop this before you are injured."

"Doc, no!"

Brad felt somebody wiping the cum off his body and cleaning him up. He tried to change his vision and as the blackness slowly faded he saw Bill holding a towel. He had a concerned look on his face. "Jeez Doc, what're they doin to him?"

"They are testing him; trying to find his limits."

Brad felt renewed energy flooding through Ken's body.

"Ken just got a surge of energy from something. I'm not sure how but he feels a little better."

Just then another orgasm hit; the third one in three minutes. Every muscle in Brad body spasm'd again. The orgasm was just as powerful as the first, but Brad didn't have the benefit of Ken's enhanced physiology. By the fifth orgasm, Brad was about to pass out and his dick was dry shooting.

"Bradford, I am not breaking the link completely, but I need to lessen the connection. You cannot keep this up."

Brad was too weak to argue. He felt Bill cleaning him up again with a warm damp towel. When he was done, Bill put a hand on Brad's shoulder and squeezed it hard, trying to convey his concern and give him strength. Brad knew that Bill supported him in this one hundred percent. Bill would do the same for Kevin if the roles were reversed.

As Dr. Thomas started the solution again, Brad felt Ken slipping away, but this time not completely. Ken was still there but now the sensations were different... it was more like looking at Ken from a distance rather than being in his body.

The orgasms continued for an hour. Brad was crying most of the time. Not because it was painful for him, which is was, but because of what Ken was going through. Brad realized that when the orgasms stopped that Ken had lost consciousness.

"Doc, he passed out."

"Thank God! That was barbaric!" Dr. Thomas sounded angry. The contempt he had for whoever was doing this to Ken was apparent.

"Please let me stay connected, Doc. I hate what they are doing to him, but if I share it at least in part, it makes me feel like I'm helping."

Five minutes went by and Brad could tell that Ken was awake again. One of Ken's first sensations was the smell of all the sweat and cum on his body. Brad breathed in that smell through Kens senses and relished in the smell of his partner. Then the orgasms started again, but this time Brad didn't feel that surge of energy. Ken had nine more orgasms before he passed out again.

Brad lay there in the bed, grateful for the connection to Ken, but in agony over what he was going through. He felt helpless because he couldn't comfort Ken in any way. Ken couldn't feel him and didn't know he was there for him. He had to know that Brad and the others wouldn't stop until they find him! He had too!

Half an hour went by when Brad realized Ken was awake. "Doc, he's awake. Can you amp up the connection for a few minutes? I need to try and get something that will help us."

"I will Bradford, but at the first sign of anything extreme let me know. Remember it takes a few seconds for the serum to work if something horrific happens."

"I smell pipe tobacco." It started a little fuzzy but Brad was starting to tune in on what Ken was hearing. He heard movement... like someone moving closer. "I can hear someone talking."

"Well my boy, you are exceeding anything I could have imagined. Whoever made you is a genius. I am jealous of his intellect and his vision. I am going to make it my life's work to duplicate and even improve upon what he has done."

"You stupid fucker. Compared to him you are in diapers, sucking on your mom's tit and shitting out guacamole into your huggies. You'll never figure this out. Just get it over with."

"We shall see, my boy."

Brad could hear the change in the doctor's tone. He heard more typing on the keyboard. He could hear the attitude in the way the keys were being hit harder than usual. There was a slight pause and then Brad heard a Beep.

Brad heard a slight hiss. It sounded hydraulic. He felt the shackle holding Ken's right wrist raise slightly. It slammed back down hard. It hurt a little but not bad.

Brad felt Ken steeling himself for another blow. He held his silence because he knew the Doc would sever the connection at this point. He had to hold on for Ken. He had to find out something that would help.

Beep. Again it slammed down, this time much harder. Brad started to sweat from the pain and the effort of holding back what was happening.

The doctor could see that Brad was reacting to something and asked, "Bradford what is happening?"

Beep. Brad felt his wrist bone splinter. His breath was coming in gasps now from dealing with the pain. "Bradford!"

Beep. Brad felt his wrist bone snap. This time he did yell.

Bill heard the bone in Brad's wrist snap just as Brad screamed out in agony. His body was straining against the straps holding him down, trying to curl up from the pain.

Beep. He felt the shackle on his left wrist rise up.

Dr. Thomas plunged the syringe down as soon as he heard Brad's wrist break. The seconds before the serum took effect seemed like an eternity. Brad's other wrist snapped and he screamed uncontrollably. Everybody heard the screaming and ran to the room where Brad, the doctor, and Bill were at. Dr. Thomas heard another pop and looked down and saw a blood on Brad's chest and could see the protrusion of at least one broken rib pushing up through the skin.

Brad's voice was almost gone from screaming his throat raw, but just as he fell unconscious everyone heard him whisper, "gotcha you fucker...."

It had been centuries since he had been so scared. It had also been centuries since he had cared so much for anyone. These young men were like sons to him. When The Order finally decided to intervene in the direction mankind was taking, he never realized the path would lead here. He almost lost two of his children tonight. He still might lose one. Brad would live, but that was far too close. Yet at the same time he could not be more proud. Brad, without the direct benefits of Transformation, was willing to hold on through any agony, even at the cost of his own life, for another human being he loved.

Dr. Thomas was as gentle as possible with Brad's hands and ribs. He set the bones, and wrapped his wounds, doing everything he could to ease his pain and make him as comfortable as possible. He would soon have to have a conversation with Bill and the others; knowing that they would be confused and disturbed by what they saw, and what it could mean for them. He did not want this experience to mar what should be a wondrous part of their lives. He might have to break a rule and take them on this next step, rather than letting them reach it on their own.

Based on his knowledge of what Ken should be able to deal with, even though it was tearing at his soul to know what Ken would have to endure, he had a close estimate of how much time they had to find Ken before he would most likely be dead.

Brad was unconscious for almost five hours. His condition was more serious than Dr. Thomas let on to the others; his body was drained far beyond any measure of safety. He slipped into a coma for a short time before showing a small improvement and then entering a normal sleep. The doctor did everything he could to assist Brad's body without endangering him further.

Brad was having the strangest dream. He remembered horrible pain and blacking out, and then he woke up in this strange place. It seemed to be dark but he could see himself. Looking down he saw he was dressed in his favorite workout shorts, a sleeveless t-shirt, his favorite zip up hoodie that Ken gave him as a gift, and his tennis shoes. The darkness extended in all directions. He felt like he was in a cheap sci-fi movie set that didn't have much of a budget.

He shouted a "Hello!?" This place was quiet and creepy. There was no echo.

Brad began moving slowly away from where he started, uncertain of the direction since he had no point of reference. At first he moved slowly, but the floor seemed smooth and after a little while he trusted that it would stay that way and he started picking up his pace. What's the worst that can happen besides I fall and bust my ass?

It was hard to keep a sense of time. There was so little to this place it didn't give him much to go on. After what seemed like at least an hour Brad was pretty sure he saw a light of some kind ahead. He slowed down and started moving forward cautiously.

As he got closer, it looked like a table of some kind with someone laying on it. There was a bright light shining down onto the table, like a spotlight. Brad started feeling a sense of urgency in the pit of his stomach. Something was wrong ...

As soon as he got within a few feet of the table it was like he hit an invisible barrier. As he looked more closely the man on the table was being held down by thick metal bands. He was in bad shape – his body covered with burns, and lacerations, and his arms and legs were at odd angles and obviously broken in multiple places. His whole body was soaked from blood and sweat. The face that slowly turned to face him was puffy and swollen, but as soon as they make eye contact Brad felt like he was struck by lightning and recognition flooded into him.

"KEN! OH FUCK! KEN!" Brad started pounding against the invisible barrier.

Ken just looked at him, but either didn't see him or didn't recognize him for some reason. Brad was panicking as he started slamming his fists against the invisible barrier. Ken's eyes were glazed over, but the longer he stared the more he seemed to be trying to focus.

Brad saw Ken's mouth move but he couldn't hear anything. Ken was now starting to move a little, his broken and tortured body struggling against the metal bonds. It had to be agonizing but with his wrist shattered and bloody he was able to pull his hand through the shackle.

As Brad continued to throw his entire body against the barrier, punching it and kicking it with all his strength, he felt it give ever so slightly.

Ken continued to struggle and pulled his arm up and through the shackle holding it down. His body was wracked with pain, and Brad could see veins in his body popping out from the strain. His face was beet red. Inch by inch his he pulled his arm up. As Brad watched him it seemed everything was in slow motion.

As Ken's arm pulled free, Brad could see the spit and blood flying out of his mouth as he screamed in pain. His normally white teeth were covered in blood and his nostrils were flaring with deep breaths as he tried to fight off the pain.

Brad was now a few inches closer. He was slowly punching a hole through the barrier.

Brad continued to punch his way through. His hand felt broken from punching at the barrier, but he knew he couldn't stop. The pain was about to make him black out when he suddenly felt his right fist break through.

Ken's outstretched arm was straining with the effort to reach Brad, but he couldn't straighten his arm out all the way. He was shaking all over with the effort.

Their fingertips finally touched, and Ken's voice flooded into Brad's mind.

Brad! Oh god B! Get me outta here! I can't hold on any more... I.. I... I tried man, but I c...c...can't take this anymore. Ken broke down and started sobbing.

"Ken! Oh fuck, oh fuck!" Looking at his best friend and lover, and what they had done to him, the agony he was in, set fire to Brad. Terrified for his lover, he didn't know what to do to save him. Through the tiny connection of their fingertips Brad took all of that fire, all the anger and hatred, and stoking it with his love for the man in front of him, he pushed all of what was in him into Ken, trying to give him hope and love and strength.

"You gotta hold on Ken, you gotta! I can't lose you, man!" Brad was sobbing so hard he could hardly talk. "We know how to find you! You gotta hang on! We're coming!"

Brad woke up with a slight jerk. He was confused and disoriented for a second. He felt some lingering emotions from the dream but couldn't remember what it was about. He was still strapped down to the bed and in the Lab. He was exhausted.

Dr. Thomas saw Brad move, and quickly went over to his bedside. "Bradford? How are you feeling?"

He tried to smile and his reply was barely audible,"Like crap." His throat was still raw from the screaming. The small effort of laughter chaffed his throat and he started coughing, which wracked his body with pain. It still wasn't safe yet to give him any powerful sedatives because of the lingering effects of the suppression serum.

The doctor gave him a rare smile, and he reached down and cupped his hand in the curve of Brad's neck and shoulder, and gently squeezed. To anyone who knew the doctor, it was a surprising overt show of affection.

"You were incredibly brave tonight Bradford. Foolish, but brave beyond words, my boy. I am very proud of you."

"Doc," Brad whispered, "I saw him... I saw the bastard that has Ken."

The Order - Chapter 3

The doctor immediately called for Lane who was an excellent sketch artist. He often worked with various police departments who didn't have their own artists on staff. Lane popped up out of his chair like he was on a spring and rushed over when he heard his name called. He looked both apprehensive and expectant at the same time.

The doctor quickly explained what was needed and Lane ran to his locker to get his sketchbook and pencils.

He came back and pulled a stool over to Brad's bedside. The doctor left the room giving Lane strict instructions to call him if he was needed.

"Hey bro, how are ya."

Brad's reply was a weak, "Never better."

"Damn man you about gave us all a heart attack. Now you pull this hero shit. You set the bar pretty high for us peons. We all know you just don't want to miss out on that hot package of Ken's – you aren't foolin anyone."

Brad smiled and was grateful for Lane trying to lighten his spirits. What gave Lane away were the tears in his eyes, which he tried to hide by lowering his head.

Lane's voice caught in his throat and he said, "Fuck bro, please don't do that again. We couldn't stand to lose you... or Ken."

Lane pulled himself together, and once he expressed to Brad how much he meant to him, he got down to business.

"Ok start telling me what this fuckhead looks like."

Brad started on his description. Long thin face, long salt and pepper hair, more salt than pepper, pulled back into a pony tail. Goatee. Dark eyes. Wrinkles. Pointy chin, high forehead, thin lips. Thin build. After about 45 minutes, Lane had portrait of the man that Brad saw. It was spot on.

"Ok, buddy. Your job is done for now, let us take over and bring Ken home. You both need each other. Once we get him back you both will be as good as new in no time." Lane reached out and gently squeezed Brad's forearm and left the room.

Lane came out of the room holding up his sketch. "Ok Doc, I think we're good to go."

Bill said, "Our connection to all major Government Databases is established at all levels; no secrets today kiddo's. We should have at least three to four hours before any intrusion is detected. I've got the kill switch ready in case we get any surprises. Lane, scan that sketch for me buddy and send it over. We'll start with facial recognition."

"Brad also mentioned the smell of pipe tobacco. I need someone to pull up a record of all the stores in the Metro Atlanta area that sell tobacco and run with that search. Find the stores, who they bank with, and start pulling purchasing and credit card billing info. I know it's a big list, but it's a start. We just might get lucky and get a hit."

"On it!" Darren shouted, and started typing furiously at the terminal he was using.

Partial hits on the facial recognition started coming in after about twenty minutes, but the initial hits were false-positives. After an hour and a half, Bill shouted out, "I think we got a hit! It's going on the Ops board!"

The large screen in the operations room lit up and a black and white photo from a newspaper popped up on the screen. The quality was horrible. Before anyone could say anything Bill shouted out, "Yeah, yeah, I know it sucks! Working on it!" He ran the photo through a digital enhancement algorithm and after a few seconds the picture came into focus. The text from the caption under the photo looked Slavic.

"This is from the Kyiv Post online archives. The photo was taken in 1974. According to the caption, it's a congratulatory piece in the paper for a Bohuslav Oleksander who earned his third Ph.D. from the University of Moscow. His degrees are in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Now that we have a name, let's see what else we can find."

"It looks like he dropped out of site for quite a few years." Bill kept typing and after another minute he continued, "Ahhh, sneaky devil. He moved to the United States and changed his name. We next see him in 1994 going by the name of Boris Cromwell. He seems to be camera shy, but we have a few solid hits with 100% id.

Darren piped in, "Ok I have multiple hits on both Visa and MasterCard under the name of Boris Cromwell. He seems to make regular purchases of tobacco at The Junkman's Daughter at Little Five Points.

Bill continued, "Ok fuc...., um Gentlemen....," as soon as Bill remembered that the Doctor was in the room listening he corrected himself.

"We know the man's name, we know his home address, and we know his purchasing habits. There seems to be no information about his current place of employment. Usually, in a case like this, lack of evidence is evidence in and of itself. Thank goodness our amazing Government likes to repeat their mistakes. If he has no record of employment, then he must work someplace that the Government doesn't want anyone to know about. Ahhh.... Here we go. Following the money, Dr. Cromwell receives deposits from the Department of Defense into an offshore account, from which he very unwisely transfers money into his Wells Fargo Checking Account. Following the rabbit trail.... The Department of Defense leases a few top secret properties in the Atlanta area. Doc, by the way, this new search engine you have rocks."

A map of Atlanta popped up on the second wall screen with the properties circled.

"It looks like we are in luck; we have current Satellite imagery in the DoD Database at all three addresses within the last fifteen minutes. I'm so glad they like to keep tabs on their top secret facilities."

High altitude images appeared, and then zoomed in to a few hundred feet above the rooftops. There weren't many cars in any of the parking lots, but one in particular had a black van.

"Ok there's a high probability that we just found out where Ken is being held."

Everyone on the team became laser focused now that they had a solid lead and a direction. The adrenaline was starting to pump and everyone quickly and efficiently gathered their gear and suited up. Everyone was quiet, forcing themselves to believe they would get there in time to save Ken.

Bill, Darren, and Lane stayed behind to run the operations remotely, since Brad couldn't be left alone. Loy would drive the van. Normally they would be on-site backup and run the operation from the Van. Dr. Thomas insisted on accompanying the team; something he had never done before.

"This is not a warzone, not the type that you were trained in originally. I feel my presence might be needed. I will stay in the van and not venture out until you are satisfied that it is safe for me to do so."

The ride over in the van seemed to take forever.

Bill managed to pull the original blueprints of the facility before it was repurposed by the Department of Defense. He marked all the entrances, and calculated the vantage points they needed to cover and was sending the information into the HUD display in the headsets they were using.

"Ok gentlemen, since it's already dark we won't have to wait. From the satellite imagery we see eleven cars parked at the facility. Tag registration has been run, and I'm uploading the list of names with photos now. All of these people have top secret security clearance so I doubt there is anyone in that building that is unaware of what's going on."

"It appears that only the front entrance is used, so the other exits must be sealed off. We'll need cover on them just in case."

"Bryan, you'll need to take care of the security codes and door locks. We need absolute silence even after we are in the building. Chances are they have some kind of kill switch hooked up to Ken that can be triggered in case of a rescue attempt. We need to be invisible and precise."

"Doc is there anything you want to say? We have a few minutes before we'll be on site."

"Yes, William, thank you. As I stated before, this is not a war, or more precisely not a conventional war. I wish no bloodshed tonight. Injuries are permissible to ensure control, but unless it is unavoidable I do not wish for any man or woman to lose their life tonight. The type of war that is being waged here is an atrocity and is the first step towards something far more sinister. The most powerful ally we have is secrecy, and that must remain so. If our enemy finds this facility filled with bodies it will only further draw attention to us. I wish to send them a message that is more subtle and that will, at the very least, make them think twice before trying something like this again. To use a phrase that you all so often employ, I wish them to know who they are fucking with. I wish them to feel the consequences of their actions and feel fear. Once you have everyone secured I will need a few minutes alone with them."

After a short awkward silence Bill continued, "Ohhkayyy.... You are now one click away from the facility. Loy, there should be a building just to your left you can park behind."

Loy pulled off and parked behind the building. There were no lights and it was pitch black. The back door opened and the four men slipped into the night, silent and invisible in the shadows. They wore full assault gear – black Kevlar body suits, covered from head to toe. Their heads and faces were covered, with headsets for communications, HUD, and night vision. Their suits were covered with small pockets filled with various gadgets the doctor had made or supplied to them; ammunition, C4 with detonators, emergency medical kits... and the suits were wired to monitor their vital signs. The head covering included filters to protect against gas and chemicals. The lining of the suits even helped to mask their thermal signatures against infrared detection.

Aside from the anxiety about Ken and what they would find once they were inside, everyone felt the exhilaration of being on a mission again. Even after eighteen years none of them had lost their edge. Almost at the same time, all of the men had the same thought – These guys have no idea what is about to come down on their heads.

They all made their way silently and took up their positions to wait for Bryan's signal that it was safe to continue.

It took Bryan a few minutes to avoid the cameras and get into position. Not wanting to take the time to pick the locks on the junction box, he used his strength to slowly bend the steel box with his fingers until it opened. He spliced into the fiber optic lines from the junction box and as soon as he did Loy saw the monitors in the van light up.

Loy's voice came over the intercom, "Good job Bry. We're in. Stay back and cover the rear entrance in case anyone tries to sneak out on us." Bryan found a small spot in deep shadow and knelt down to wait.

The security cameras and door locks were now under their control. Back in the van the doctor started working on hacking in and taking over their computer system.

Kevin, Rick, and Patrick appeared like ghosts at the front entrance to the building. There was a bio-metric panel which normally required a thumbprint in addition to the card, but the panel stayed dark as Kevin swiped his smartcard. There was a barely discernible click as the magnetic locks released and the door opened.

Kevin swung the door open and moved forward cautiously. Bright fluorescent lights lit up the short hallway in front of them. Their night vision headsets immediately turned off and their HUDS switched display format to compensate for the new brightness. From the blueprints Kevin knew that there was a small cubby right around the corner, which would probably have a desk with a security guard of some type. They shut the door silently behind them.

Bill's voice came over the com link, "Sealing the building. Unless they have some sort of manual override or panic device, no one can get in or out now."

Kevin pulled out a small fiber optic camera that looked like a length of wire from one of his many pockets. He straightened it and held it out so the tip was just past the corner of the hallway. Everyone saw the image of a single security guard sitting at a desk, reviewing the security monitors, oblivious to what was happening.

The guard didn't see or hear anything. Kevin moved blindingly fast, knocking the man out cold and catching him before he could fall down. He sprayed a small aerosol can into the man's face to make sure he stayed asleep until the doctor wanted him awake.

With the security guard out of the way, they quickly moved down the hallway. There were two women and a man in the first room. Rick and Pat moved into the room and the three people stopped cold when the two large figures dressed all in black appeared out of nowhere pointing rifles at them. Kevin stayed on lookout, just inside the door. The guy actually fainted when Rick moved towards him. The women were shaking and holding onto one another. Rick and Pat sprayed them for good measure and pulled their bodies behind the big island in the middle of the room to keep their bodies out of sight.

There was one more lab, smaller than the first, which held two more technicians. In no time they were unconscious and out of sight.

Kevin could see and hear movement ahead. The hallway opened up into a large room, which took up most of the floor plan of the building. There was a glass chamber in the middle of the room that was brightly lit. Kevin's gut wrenched at what he saw. Ken's body was laid out spread eagle on the table with large metal bands holding him down. He was naked and covered in blood and sweat, and his body was twitching. Kevin could see marks all over Ken's body; blackened areas that were obviously burns, pieces of skin removed, and his arms and legs were bent at odd angles. There was a tall thin man in a white lab coat with his back to Kevin's vantage point. The pony tail told Kevin it was probably Dr. Cromwell. It took every ounce of self-control not to lift his rifle and end the man's miserable existence.

Everyone back in the van was seeing this over the camera on Kevin's headset.

Dr. Cromwell was taking skin grafts off of Ken's legs to freeze them for future study. He was intentionally keeping Ken awake with stimulants – partially out of scientific curiosity, but mostly out of sheer cruelty. The boy continually insulted his intelligence at every opportunity.

One of the technicians saw Kevin step out of the hallway and screamed. Fear hit Dr. Cromwell fast and hard. He knew immediately what was happening and bolted out of the room, towards the back of the building. He paused at the entrance to the rear hallway just long enough to lift a small acrylic casing and press the red button that was on the wall. Then he fled.

Kevin said in a tight voice, "Bry he's headed out the back."

The five assistants were all incapacitated in seconds.

Dr. Cromwell was angry. How dare they! He ran down the hallway and literally threw his body against the panic bar that stretched across the back door. The door flew open and Dr. Cromwell slammed right into Bryan's 6' 425 lb. frame, which felt much harder than the door. Bryan grabbed the doctor by the front of his lab coat and lifted him off his feet like a rag doll. Bryan lifted off his headset and pulled the doctor closer so their faces were inches apart. Bryan's face was still covered except for his piercing blue eyes. Bryan had seen the image of Ken on the table through his HUD. The fury he felt at this man was almost incapacitating and despite all of his training he wanted to crush this man's skull with his bare hands. He wanted to slowly and painfully squeeze the life out of the monster he had in his grasp. The doctor looked into those blue eyes and saw his death. He was so terrified that he lost control of his bladder and pissed all over himself and then passed out.

Bryan felt the doctor go limp and realized what happened when he smelled the man's piss. Bryan let out a low, frustrated growl, and he head-butted the doctor. He was careful not to break the man's nose, but he wanted him to feel pain when he woke up.

As soon as Kevin heard Bryan say, "I got him," Kevin said, "Doc we need you NOW."

Loy was already pulling the van up by the front door; as soon as the image of Ken had come across the video feed the doctor told Loy to move out.

Kevin felt so helpless, looking down at his friend - His Captain. Ken's face was almost unrecognizable from the swelling and blood. Kevin had no idea how Ken could still be conscious but he was. Patrick found the release mechanism for the shackles and all of them retracted. As soon as they released, Ken's body started pulling in from all the pain, trying to get in a fetal position. Kevin was pulling all the electrodes and catheters off, going as fast as he could but trying to be gentle at the same time.

All of them had tears in their eyes, and they kept repeating, "Fuck," or "Fuck me,"under their breath.

Ken's body was trembling and shaking uncontrollably from the pain. He kept trying to say something, and even with his heightened hearing Kevin couldn't make it out. He bent over, wanting to give his buddy some kind of comfort but afraid to touch him. There wasn't a square inch anywhere on Ken's body that wasn't covered with bruises, lacerations, burns, lack of skin, or broken bones.

Kevin leaned over and said, "Ken buddy we're here man. You're safe now. The doc'll be here any second and we're takin you home. You gotta hang on man, you gotta."

Ken was still trying to say something. Kevin put his ear up to Ken's mouth and finally heard what he was saying. "K... k...kill me p... puh... please... m... mm... make... it... stop." Hot tears started falling down Kevin's cheeks. Where the fuck is the doc?

It seemed like forever, but suddenly the doctor rushed into the room, followed by Loy, who was carrying a collapsible stretcher and the doctor's medical case.

The doctor had seen Ken over the monitor, but seeing him in person and the agony he was in was almost too much to bear. "Oh my poor boy what have they done?" The doctor's voice was choked with grief. He only paused long enough to whisper those words, and then he moved over to the table.

Opening the medical case Loy had set down on the table; he took out a syringe and plunged it into Ken's neck. While he was reaching for another set of syringes, Ken's trembling stopped and his body went still.

"Kevin!" Kevin heard the desperation on the doctor's voice; shouting his name like a command and a cry for help. Kevin moved over to the doctor's side, having to steady the trembling in his own hands.

The doctor pulled out a long black case and unzipped it. Kevin recognized it as an adrenaline shot. He realized that Ken's heart had stopped and that his friend was no longer breathing.

"Kevin, I am not strong enough to get this through his chest plate. I will hold it in position but you need to push it through. One three... one... two...three!" Using the palm of his hand, Kevin pushed down hard. He felt the resistance as the needle punctured through Ken's solid chest plate. The doctor quickly pressed the plunger, forcing adrenaline straight into Ken's heart.

Ken's body reacted immediately, his back arching as he sucked air back into his lungs. He collapsed back onto the table, but he was breathing, and thankfully unconscious. The doctor finished administering the other syringe's he had prepared.

They all felt relief flood through them as they realized Ken was breathing again.

None of them could imagine what Brad was going through back at the Lab seeing all of this.

"Kenneth is not out of the woods yet. The serums I have just given him will hopefully keep him alive until we get him back to the Lab."

The doctor pulled out a three small vials from his bag, the kind that had eye droppers as part of the lid. He gave one each to Kevin, Rick, and Patrick. "Take these, and place an eye dropper full of the liquid under the tongue of everyone here. Leave them all in the rooms where you found them."

Reaching up to activate his own com link, he said "Bryan my boy, please bring the doctor back inside."

Bryan came down the hallway with the doctor over his shoulder. He flopped the doctor down hard onto the floor. It was obvious to everyone that the man had pissed his pants and he had a bloody nose. They all looked up at Bryan, who shrugged and had an innocent look on his face. "What?! HE ran into ME!"

The doctor asked Loy, "Is the program uploaded into their system?"

"Yes sir."

The doctor sat down at one of the terminals in the room and started quickly typing. The lights flickered and it looked like the entire facility rebooted.

"Bryan please put that monster in the first room with the others in there." Bryan picked up the man by his lab coat and none to gently drug him into the other room, not caring if his head happened to knock into a few chairs on the way.

The doctor went quickly to each room where unconscious scientists or technicians were piled up on the floor. He was alone and no one knew exactly what it was he did to them. He returned after a few minutes.

"That should do the trick. Now, let us take our brother home."

Loy had the stretcher extended and Kevin and Rick very carefully moved Ken onto it. They were as gentle as possible, knowing that every movement could cause more damage to Ken and even though he was unconscious, more pain.

They loaded him securely into the van, cleaned up all evidence that they were ever there, and left.

Brad was on pins and needles. He had never been so afraid. Brad felt it when Ken's heart stopped. Bill, Darren, and Lane were all with him; holding him and doing their best to support him, but it was like the straw that broke the camel's back. Even after Ken started breathing again, Brad's face was slack and emotionless. When Ken stopped breathing, his body lifeless even for those few seconds, it broke their connection, and set Brad adrift again – all alone. His vision started spiraling, he felt like he was falling, and he passed out. Darren gently picked him up and moved him into one of the beds.

It took about half an hour for the van to get back to the lab in traffic. The ride back was silent as everyone sat looking at Ken and what had been done to him.

At one point the doctor asked Bill over the com link, "William how is Bradford?"

"Doc he's unconscious. Right after you gave Ken the adrenaline shot he passed out."

The doctor pressed his eyes closed and let out a heavy sigh. "William, get him into a bed and watch him closely. Do NOT let him hurt himself, do you understand?"

Bill's reply sounded a bit panicked as realized what the doc meant, "Yes sir."

Bill looked over at Darren and Lane, and they all rushed into the room where Brad was laying on the bed. Brad was awake, but he was staring at the ceiling, completely despondent. He didn't seem to hear or register that they were even there. They were scared for Brad and Ken both. How could this be happening?

Brad was still despondent when they brought Ken into the Lab. They took Ken into the critical unit, their version of an ICU. The doctor quickly had Ken hooked up to his computers, with various tubes and hoses and wires. He worked quickly and efficiently, asking whoever was closest when he needed certain things from other areas of the lab. All of the men were trained as EMT's and assisted him as needed.

After an hour of attaching the equipment, taking measurements, and multiple injections, the doctor started slowing down. When he came out of the room everyone stood up quickly and came over to hear what he had to say.

"What was done to Kenneth is horrific beyond words. That any human being could treat another in such a way... it reminds me of darker times. I thought such times were behind us, but apparently not. Kenneth is not out of the woods yet. His injuries are so severe.... if he makes it through the next twenty four hours his chances will improve dramatically. Once we get past his physical injuries I'm concerned about his mental state. I have no idea what condition his mind will be in after what he has experienced. I have temporarily induced a coma, to let his body recover as it was designed to do. We will have to wait and see how he progresses, and cross whatever bridges we find as they arise."

Kevin felt like he had to tell the doc about what Ken said. The opportunity hadn't presented itself yet.

"Doc?"

"Yes, Kevin?"

"Doc, with what you just said about Ken's mental state... when we got to him... he..." Kevin was starting to lose it. He could hear the pain in Ken's plea, and it kept repeating over and over in his mind. "He begged me to kill him doc." Bill moved over and put his hands on Kevin's shoulders throwing his support behind his mate. Kevin took a deep breath to pull himself together.

"I hope we were not too late, and Bradford's sacrifice was not in vain. You all know Kenneth and understand the depth of what was done to him and how far he has to recover. But he is resilient, as is Bradford, and they both have all of us to help them. We are family and we will have to be as supportive and understanding as we can be in their recovery."

"I am as fearful for Bradford as I am Kenneth. Bradford has proven more resourceful than I imagined and has put himself in extreme danger by helping Kenneth. I am not even sure he is aware of what he did, or how, but he has been badly wounded and drained and he might be beyond our help."

Everyone stood in stunned silence, letting what the doc said sink in. They all felt like they just got kicked in the nuts – twice!

"Bryan, would you assist Lane is cleaning Kenneth up? Be as gentle as you can, and let me know if you need any assistance." As they moved by him, he reached out and grabbed their arms and gave them both a reassuring squeeze. Both of them covered his hand in theirs in a show of gratitude and they moved into the room to carry out their job.

"I must see to Bradford now," he said as he moved into the other room. All of them noticed that the doctor seemed older and his shoulders were slumped. On top of Ken and Brad, that worried them as well.

The doctor went into the room Brad was in. Brad was lying in bed, his eyes open and staring at the ceiling but not seeing anything. The sheets were pulled up to his waist, showing the wrap around his ribcage which covered most of his bare torso. Both his hands were in braces from mid-palm to about mid-forearm. His face was haggard and his normal tanned complexion was almost grey. His eyes had dark circles under them and he hadn't shaved in days.

"Bradford, I know you can hear me, even if it is your subconscious. My boy, what you did was incredibly heroic. The others do not understand yet just what it is that you did. I am not sure how you did it on your own. You have progressed years beyond what I was expecting at this time. We cannot afford to lose you, son... I cannot afford to lose you. Kenneth, especially, needs you more than ever, even after what you have already done for him. I will do what I can to help you. I can give you a beacon to find, but you will have to make the journey back on your own. I wish I was permitted to help you, but for the sake of the others I cannot. Not yet." The doctor's eyes reflected the sadness and pain he felt for his young charge.

The only reaction Brad had that he heard any of this, were more tears running down his cheeks.

Lane started gathering clean towels, cotton balls, Qtips, rubbing alcohol, and hot water. Bryan was still in his combat suit. Lane quietly told him, "Dude, go change clothes. I'll get this started." Bryan was grateful and quickly changed and was back in just a few minutes.

They began the arduous task of cleaning up their buddy. Even though Ken was in a coma, they knew his body could still feel pain. The man who did this was cruel and it became more apparent as they worked. The cuts were deeper than necessary for grafts, and jagged edges were left on purpose to expose raw nerves. And the burns... it looked like someone had put out cigars all over his body, except for one spot on his shoulder that looked like it had been exposed to an intense flame. They could see his shoulder bone where the skin was burned off completely.

It took Lane and Bryan nearly three hours to clean Ken up as best they could. They couldn't believe how many towels they used and how much blood there was. Both men cried on and off while they worked, and they periodically had to stop and mentally steel themselves to go on.

Ken made it through the first twenty four hours, which sent a small sigh of relief through everyone, but he was still in the induced coma. His body was beginning to show small outward signs of improvement. Ken's own subconscious was guiding and prioritizing his recovery. As long as the doctor kept his body supplied with the right nutrients, proteins, vitamins, and hydration, it would eventually return everything to full health. Scars would be the last thing to heal, so he would still look rough for a while. The swelling was gone from his face, although there was still some bruising. Just like Brad, Ken hadn't shaved since he was taken, and he had a week's worth of beard growth. Outwardly he was starting to look like his ruggedly handsome, studly self.

Brad, on the other hand, looked worse than ever. He hadn't had anything solid to eat in days. The doctor was pumping fluids into him to prevent dehydration, and a mild sedative to keep his body relaxed, but he was visibly losing weight. The doctor decided to induce a coma on Brad as well, for a day or two, to see if his it would lessen his brain activity. Something was going on in his mind, but so far the doctor had made no headway in reaching him.

With both men in a coma, the doctor sent everyone home for the first night since Ken had been brought back.

"You have all been through your own ordeal this week. You need to go spend time with one another and take care of yourselves. I will stay with Kenneth and Bradford, and rest assured I will contact you all immediately if there is any change."

All of the couples reluctantly agreed and left the doctor alone. They went home, got a solid meal, and took comfort in each other's arms. That night when their bodies were intertwined, and they made love, they felt a renewed appreciation for each other. Their love grew deeper and stronger, which replenished their hearts and minds. The next day they all felt better.

Shortly after midnight, when the lab was dark, and the doctor was asleep in one of the spare beds, Brad sat up. His eyes were moving around and his face still looked pale and gaunt. He slowly removed all the wires and electrodes that were hooked to his body.

He walked into Ken's room and went over to the bed. He put his hand out and laid it on Ken's chest. He felt the heat of Ken's body and just left his hand there for a few minutes. Then he crawled up into the bed and lay down beside his lover. It was difficult because the bed wasn't made for two big men. He put his head on Ken's chest and with his other hand he gently stroked Ken's body wherever he could reach. He could only use only his fingertips because of the braces on his wrists, but it was enough to make some kind of connection. Ken's body was hotter than usual because of the healing process, and Brad's body started sweating lightly where their skin touched. Brad started crying as he lay there, his tears pooling on Kens chest and running down across his ribcage. If the doctor could see him this way it wouldn't be clear if Brad was comforting Ken or trying to be comforted by him.

Lane and Bryan were the first to get to the lab in the morning. Patrick, Darren, Rick, Loy, Kevin, and Bill all had to head into the office, at least for part of the day. Sally was frantic and they were at risk of losing some clients if they didn't cover a few jobs. They didn't want to do it, but with Ken on the mend and Brad at least stable they felt a bit of the urgency let up.

They stopped at Chic-Fil-A and picked up some chicken biscuits on the way for themselves and the doc. They got a few extra for Ken and Brad just in case. When they walked in all the lights were still off. The doc must have still been asleep; he wasn't known to be an early riser.

Lane went in to check on Brad and Bryan went to wake up the doc.

Seconds later Lane let out a shout, "Doc! Doc! Come quick and check this out!"

The doc shot out of bed in surprise. Lane's voice sounded more surprised than panicked, but still sounded urgent. He rushed into Ken's room, where Lane was standing at the door with a surprised, almost happy look on his face. The sight both amazed and baffled him. Brad was in bed, lying on top of Ken, asleep.

"How!?"

He moved over to examine both of them. How Bradford could have gotten in here on his own was a mystery. He was in an induced coma and should not have been able to move let alone walk. Bryan moved over to the bedside. He was looking for any signs of sexual activity but he didn't say that out loud. It would be just like those studs to figure out how to have sex even in a coma.

Bryan couldn't help but smile when that thought popped into his head. It was then he noticed the marks on Ken. "Oh my God, doc, look."

Bryan gently moved Brad's arm off Ken's chest. Where Brad's skin had been touching Ken, he looked completely healed.

"Quickly, Bryan, take Bradford back to his own bed."

Bryan picked Brad up like a baby and took him back to the other room. As Lane and the doctor looked, it was like a stamp of Brad's body on Ken. The skin was completely healthy and without scars wherever they had been touching. Looking more closely they could even make out the tear trails across Ken's chest and ribs where Brad and been crying.

"This is quite unexpected; and fascinating!"

Whatever happened, Ken's healing was greatly accelerated. The doctor stopped the induced coma and Ken entered normal sleep.

Brad, however, continued to decline both physically and mentally. Whatever he managed to do, consciously or not, took its toll on him. He was awake now but very weak and groggy.

Brad's voice was barely discernible but he managed a, "Hi doc", when the doctor came in.

"Bradford, thank goodness you are awake." There were tears in the doctors eyes, something Brad had never seen before.

Lane and Bryan both came into the room, one on either side of his bed. They both reached out and grabbed a shoulder and pulled him into a tight embrace. Lane was the first one to speak. "Hey bud, you finally decided to join us?" The doctor went out to get some vials to draw blood and left them alone for a few minutes.

Bryan couldn't hold back and said, "Fuck me Brad, so help me if you ever do anything like this again I will kill you myself! You crazy bastard." Brad saw the smile on Bryan's face and the wetness in his eyes and tried to smile back.

"I'm hungry. Do you women have anything in the kitchen?" Bryan and Lane were stunned at how weak Brad's voice sounded.

The best thing they could come up with was a warmed up chicken biscuit from that morning. Lane said he would go out and get something more appropriate and less greasy. Bryan told Brad, "Ken is doing much better man. I bet the doc will let us move you two into the same room now if we ask. Whatever mojo you seem to have picked up worked wonders on him."

Brad gave him a curious look but didn't respond directly. "Do you think I can see him? Can you help me in there?"

"Sure buddy." Bryan was surprised at how weak Brad was, and ended up mostly carrying him into Ken's room. "I need to sit down, man. Sorry... guess I'm more tired than I thought." Bryan pulled a chair over to the bedside for Brad so sit in.

"Bud, you got nothing to be sorry about. You're a fuckin hero in all our eyes."

Brad didn't say anything. He just leaned forward and took one of Ken's hands in between both of his. The braces still made it awkward but as soon as Brad took Ken's hand into his own, Ken inhaled deeply and his eyes slowly opened. For a split second Bryan saw terror there and Ken tried to get up, thinking he was still being held and tortured.

Bryan moved over quickly and grabbed Ken by the shoulders and held him down firmly. "Whoa Ken, buddy... you're safe man. You're back at the lab. We got you bro."

Ken's eyes came into focus, and he started trembling. "Ohhh fuck..." and tears of relief started flowing down his handsome face. Bryan started crying too, and helped him to sit up. He chuckled to himself and thought, Damn I should buy stock in Kleenex with all the cryin goin on around here. Brad struggled to stand up, and as soon as Ken realized he was there he grabbed him and pulled him over in a fierce hug. Brad sucked in his breath in pain as Ken squeezed his broken ribs. Ken realized instantly that Brad was hurt and stopped squeezing. When he looked he saw that most of Brad's naked torso was wrapped, like his ribs were hurt, and he had a wrist brace on each hand. He was shocked at how horrible his friend looked. Just last week he was already starting to tan up nice, but now he was pale and pasty looking, he had huge dark circles under his bloodshot eyes, and he looked like he had lost weight.

"God, B what happened to you!? Who did this to you?" Brad felt light as a feather in Ken's hands and he was still weak from his own recovery. Ken lifted him up and sat Brad down in his lap facing away and hugged him from behind, being extra careful of because of his ribs. Ken put his chin on Brad's shoulder and pulled him back against his body, wanting to feel as much skin contact as he could manage. He was rubbing his cheek against Brad's, and since both of them had a five plus day growth of beard, it sounded like sandpaper being rubbed together but to both men it was pure bliss. Brad covered Ken's hands with his own and leaned back against Ken, feeling the heat from his body. They were both crying, and Ken just started rocking Brad back and forth, holding him and soaking in his presence.

Bryan felt like he was intruding by this time. As he was turning to go, he noticed that even though Brad was crying, his face had a flat, faraway look that was completely out of character for him.Well the doc said it was going to take a while. They've been through hell and back for each other this week. Bryan prayed that both of them could get back to their old selves as soon as possible.

Bryan went to report to the doc what just happened. The doctor was anxious for them, but gave them some time, and by the time the he went in, they were both asleep again, with Brad spooning up against Ken's back with one arm crooked under his head. His other hand was intertwined with Ken's fingers as much as the brace would allow and Ken had Brad's hand held against his chest.

Just by being in close proximity to Ken, Brad's wounds started healing faster. The doctor kept them both in the Lab a few more days for observation. The rest of the team went back to their regular schedule at the security firm. They took turns swinging by the lab a few times a day to drop off food and check on Ken and Brad. The doc decided he could start going back to his house for the evenings, starting that night, pleased with the physical progress both men were making.

Ken sealed the lab as soon as the doctor left. The same as when he was at home, he felt any remaining tension from the day flow out of him when he heard the sound of the seals going into place and the slight change in air pressure.

He went back over to Brad's desk, where Brad was sitting on a stool doing something on his notebook.

"You know B... I love the doc, and all the guys, but I'm glad to finally be alone with you."

The funk that Brad was in when he first woke up had lifted some, but he still wasn't back to his old self by a long shot. Being around Ken seemed to help.

"Yeah, I know what you mean. When I was growing up, my mom always said the best part about company is when they leave."

Ken stood behind Brad and started rubbing his neck and shoulders, loving the feel of his lover's body. Brad stopped typing, and lowered his head, enjoying the feel of Ken's strong hands. Such big strong hands. Ken kept it up, knowing that Brad needed his love more than ever. Something was still wrong. Ken instinctively knew it and he was pretty sure that Brad knew it too. This was the first time since the rescue that they had any committed alone time and Ken didn't want to ruin the mood with a heavy conversation. Not yet anyways. They both needed each other badly. It had been nearly two weeks since they had made out.

Brad was the caretaker in the relationship and always had been, but Ken was more than happy to fill that role for his buddy. The scary part was that Brad had never needed to be taken care of. He was always the rock of the relationship from an emotional standpoint. He was more mature and wise for his years; he always seemed to know the right thing to say in any given situation. That's why Ken was so scared for him. Brad seemed lost right now, and Ken knew he needed to help him find his way back. He didn't know how, but he would figure it out. He had too.

For about ten minutes, Ken kept rubbing his back and shoulders. Brad let out a heavy sigh of pleasure and leaned forward some, so Ken could move further down his back. Ken reached down and grabbed the hem of Brad's t-shirt and pulled it up. Brad raised his arms so Ken could lift it completely off.

Ken looked down at the man he loved more than anything. He loved Brad's back. Hell I love everything about this stud. He could tell that Brad had lost some weight and he'd have to help his buddy get back to his old self but his body was still solid muscle.

Once he had Brad's shirt off, he really started getting turned on. The feel of Brad's skin, his hard muscles, was driving Ken crazy. But this was for his buddy, not him, so he just kept at it, being gentle but firm, wanting Brad to feel how much he loved him through his touch. He leaned over and every so often he would give Brad a kiss, starting on the back of his neck and moving across his shoulders, from side to side, and then start it all over again, while he kept up the contact. He started running his hands down Brad's arms a little, squeezing his biceps. Brad's head was still lowered, and he was letting out an almost constant moan of pleasure, letting Ken know how much he was enjoying the sensations.

Ken was so hard he was about to explode. Touching Brad like this, after all they had been through, was testing his control. He knew his shorts were wet with all the precum he was leaking. He kept one hand on Brad's back, and with his other hand he pulled down his shorts. He wanted Brad to know how much just touching his lover turned him on.

Brad was feeling overwhelmed. For a time, he had been so afraid that he would never feel Ken's touch again. The agony of that feeling, freezing him down to his soul, was still inside of him. Ken's touch was helping to fight it off, right now in this moment. Ken's touch; the touch that could light Brad up like nothing else in this world. The feeling of Ken's warm hands on his bare skin, rubbing away the loneliness, filling him back up was a balm to his injured soul.

Ken moved forward and pressed his hot dick against Brad's back.

"This is what you do to me buddy. This is for you. I love you B."

Brad felt Ken's hot dick press against his back, and then Ken knelt down behind him pulled him back by his shoulders pressing his big strong chest to Brad's back. Ken wrapped his thick arms around Brad and squeezed their bodies together. That sent Brad over the edge and cum started blasting out of him.

Ken felt Brad tense up; his head slumped forward and his shoulders were shaking like he was crying.

Afraid something was wrong, Ken asked, "B? What's wrong buddy? Talk to me."

It took another couple of seconds for Brad to catch his breath. He was crying, but he was also laughing. "Nothing's wrong you douche, I'm laughing. You just made me shoot two weeks of cum in my shorts without even touching my dick!"

Brad slowly spun around on the stool, looking at Ken. Tears were streaming down his cheeks, which totally confused Ken, but Brad was smiling. They both stood up and Brad threw his arms around Ken, squeezing with every ounce of strength he could muster, pulling their bodies together. He rested his chin in the crook of Ken's neck and shoulder and just stood there feeling their bodies together. He could feel Ken's hot throbbing dick against his stomach. He knew Ken was on the verge of exploding, and didn't want to leave him hanging any longer, so he pulled back after a few seconds. They could cuddle after.

Brad turned them both around and put his hands on Ken's shoulders and pushed him down onto the stool. Ken's shorts were still around his ankles, but other than that he was naked. Brad ran his eyes quickly from head to toe, his eyes filled with lust for the Greek god sitting in front of him, his erection hard as diamonds, slightly curved, dripping precum, and pointing right at him. Brad put his hands on Ken's thighs and lowered himself to his knees, so Ken's crotch was at eye level. The vision of Ken – his thick chest, deep cut abs, powerful arms – was intoxicating. With one hand Brad cupped Ken's balls and just held them firmly. They were tight and full and ready to unload. With his other hand he reached up and put his hand around the thick shaft and lowered his head.

Ken watched Brad's eyes as they raked over his body; he could see the lust in his lover's eyes. That alone was enough to send him over the edge, but when Brad grabbed his nuts, every muscle in Ken's body contracted. Brad knew Ken was past the point of no return and just as the first shot left the head of Ken's dick, Brad plunged all eight inches into his mouth and throat. He started swallowing so his throat would squeeze Ken's dick, over and over, to make it feel as good as possible for his lover.

Ken couldn't say anything. Other than his heavy breathing, his chest heaving from the power of his orgasm, he didn't make any noise. His mouth was open and his eyes were shut, his handsome face contorted into a mask of intense pleasure. His orgasm lasted for almost a minute, and Brad continued to milk his dick with his throat, and gently fondle his balls.

When Ken got his breathing back under control he said, "Fuck I love you B. Come here." He leaned over and lifted Brad up and pulled him into another hug. He pulled back enough to look into Brad's blue eyes. Ken had tears in his eyes too. They both reached up to brush the tears out of each other's eyes. Ken said, "Man, here we go again with the water works," and started laughing. Brad laughed too.

Brad broke their kiss long enough to say, "Now that we have your hair trigger out of the way it's time for some serious fucking. Let's go to bed." Their foreheads were pressed together and they were smiling at one another as they started bantering like their old selves.

"My hair trigger? What the hell do you call cumming in your shorts without me even touching you?" Ken was laughing.

"That was all part of my plan bro. I have mad seduction skills and you completely fell for them. You, big guy, are such a pussy."

"So you think in that pea brain of yours that you just seduced me?"

Brad just laughed and said "Dude, shut the fuck up and let's get into bed!"

Once they were in bed, Ken was held himself up over Brad, his hands on either side of Brad's head. He brought his head down and they started kissing. Brad was stroking Ken's chest and arms and they were both rock hard again. Ken broke the kiss and looked into his lovers eyes. "Hey B... do you wanna..." and before he got any further Brad said "not only yes but hell yes buddy." Both of their eyes, Ken's emerald green and Brad's crystal blue, turned almost white together for a brief second. They both felt it immediately. With huge grins on their faces they spent the entire night making love in every conceivable position in every conceivable place in the lab.

When Bryan and Lane stopped by in the morning with some breakfast, the lab was an absolute wreck and smelled like sex. They immediately knew what happened and Lane let out a loud, "Holy Fuck! Hahahahahaha."

Bryan went to take the food over into the kitchen area and noticed two empty gallons of milk, a huge jar of protein powder, and multiple empty containers of Gator-Ade on the counter and laughed. Looks like someone needed a recharge last night!

Ken and Brad woke up when they heard the security system open the locks. They realized they were both still naked so they quickly threw on their shorts. They breathed a sigh of relief when they heard Lane's laughter and realized it wasn't the doc.

Since they knew it wasn't the doctor, they stepped out of their room, shirtless and barefoot. They were stunned when they saw the condition the lab was in. It looked like a tornado had gone through the place. Papers were everywhere, tables cleared off, and chairs knocked over.

Bryan was holding his nose as he came back over. He had grabbed a can of air freshener from one of the cabinets and started squirting it everywhere. "Ok I'm officially impressed by you two fuckers. Now I know what that earthquake I felt last night was! You managed to both trash and stink up an entire building!"

Lane noticed the huge cum stain on Brad's shorts and started laughing again, "Damn Ken I'm really disappointed in you man. To let a load like that go to waste is criminal." He pointed to Brad's shorts when he said that.

Brad blushed a deep red and both he and Ken busted out laughing.

Lane looked at his watch and said, "Okay ladies, I figure you have about fifteen minutes before the doc shows up. You better hurry. Bry we need to hit the road if we are gonna make it to the office on time."

Bryan gave Brad's crotch a big shot of air freshener as he walked by. Lane and Bryan were still laughing as they shut the door on their way out.

Ken and Brad started running around like madmen to get the place straightened up before the doctor arrived.

By the end of the week, and the miracle of his enhanced physiology, along with the doctor's treatments Ken was physically as good as new. The strange incident of the night Brad slept in Ken's room took at least a week off from his recovery time. The doctor was sure he knew what happened but not how. It had to be a subconscious reaction on Brad's part, and what he did bordered on the metaphysical. Science alone couldn't explain how he did what he did. The closest scientific explanation the doctor had was that Brad exchanged something with Ken, along the lines of his life energy, his spirit. The doctor would continue to look into it, with great urgency. None of the men should be able to do that yet. Eventually yes, but not now.

There's more going on between the two men than the doctor fully realized yet. Ken was showing remarkable resilience, far quicker than the doctor expected. Aside from healing faster, his mental state was far better than expected. After talking with Ken at length, in private, he seemed to recall everything, but in a clinical, detached way that prevented it from affecting his current state of mind and well-being.

For now Brad seemed to be recovering as well. The doctor knew what would happen when he started leaving them alone at night. If the smell of air freshener wasn't enough to clue him in, they kept rearranging his papers when they cleaned up every morning.

He would just have to continue to keep an eye on Brad. The long term effects of what he did were an unknown and the doctor was a bit apprehensive. He would just have to wait and see.

At the end of that week the doctor said he thought it would be fine for Ken and Brad to go back home. The only rule is that if they left the house they went together; even if it was a quick trip to the grocery store, or to get gas. This rule was in effect with the rest of the team as well, for their protection.

"That's great doc!" Ken exclaimed.

"Yes, Kenneth, not only do I think it is time, but I am not sure the Lab can take much more of your 'recovery.'"

Ken and Brad looked at each other for a second before they both broke out laughing.

They went grocery shopping on the way home. They had been gone for weeks, and had to throw out a bunch of food and leftovers from the fridge. The doctor, even though he released them to go home, said they could not go back to work yet. He would let them know when he thought it was ok.

Ken and Brad settled back into their routines at the house. Even though they couldn't officially work, they had lots of time to work out together, and work on their tans. Brad not only gained his weight back, but seemed to pack on more muscle.

They were both a bit more 'touchy feely' for the first few weeks they were back. They held hands more, and found excuses to touch one another. The sex was better than ever, and Ken got better at controlling their new bond. He barely had to think to start and stop it. The only precaution the doc had given them was to not leave it active unless they were together.

A month later the doc cleared them to go back to work, and that seemed to be the final piece of the puzzle to get the entire team back and firing on all cylinders.

A few weeks later, Ken and Brad were home in the evening watching TV. They were watching 'Green Lantern' on pay-per-view. It was still summer so they were just wearing shorts in the house. They were lying on the couch, their bodies pressed together, and Ken had his arm draped over and across Brad's chest. He was absent mindedly running his hand through the hair on Brad's chest while he watched the movie. Brad always enjoyed reclining on top of Ken's warm body, and feeling his strong chest against his back. Ken periodically moved his hand around, rubbing Brad's chest or his abs or gently tweaking one of his nipples. Ken was almost unconscious of what he was doing; he just loved touching Brad's body. About twenty minutes into the movie Ken mentioned he was hungry so Brad got up to make them a snack. Ken paused the movie and started channel surfing until Brad got back.

Brad had made a big fruit salad earlier in the day and brought the bowl over with a couple of forks so they could just eat out of the bowl. Ken sat up and restarted the movie as soon as Brad was back on the couch. They sat there watching the movie, their shoulders touching, and ate the whole big bowl. Brad reached forward to put the empty bowl on the coffee table and when he leaned back Ken felt a trembling in Brad's shoulder.

"You cold bro?"

"Yeah kinda. All this cold fruit I guess."

"Well come over here and let me take care of that."

Brad snuggled back against Ken and let Ken wrap his arms around him. Ken brought his legs around so Brad was scissored in between them. "Damn bro you are cold." Brad's whole body was chilled, and he started shivering hard. Ken was running his hands up and down Brad's arms, chafing his skin to try and warm him up.

Ken's normally warm body actually felt hot to Brad. Brad closed his eyes and snuggled back against Ken trying to soak up his warmth.

Ken picked up the remote and paused the movie just as Ryan Reynolds body was being scanned by the aliens, floating nearly naked. "I know how to warm you up." Brad felt his senses heighten and knew that Ken starting their bonding. Brad turned over so his chest was pressed against Ken's. They starred hugging and kissing and both of them got hard. Ken kept his arms wrapped around Brad's back, moving his warm hands up and down, until Brad stopped trembling. They continued to kiss, occasionally breaking off their tongue wrestling to nibble on each other's necks or ears. Their dicks were both hard and Brad started moving his pelvis slowly, pressing them together in a slow grind. The heads of their dicks were popping out the waistband of their shorts and dripping. Ken managed to take his hands off Brad long enough to reach down and pull both their shorts down to their knees and they both worked on kicking their legs enough for the shorts to slide off their feet.

Ken pulled his mouth off Brad, and was a little breathless, but managed to say,"Now I got you where I want you buddy; naked, and at my mercy." Ken reached down and grabbed ahold of Brad's hard on and started jacking him off with long slow steady strokes, using their combined precum as lube. With the bond going, Ken could feel the stroking of his hand on his own cock as well and he started grinding his hips.

Brad started laughing, "Ken you fuckin perv! You just wanted to jack yourself off didn't you? You are so busted!"

Ken blushed slightly, and then started chuckling, because he knew that's what it looked like as soon as he started grinding his own hips. "Well that wasn't my intention, but you gotta admit it's kinda hot." He was grinning like a Cheshire cat when he said that. "And it kills two birds with one stone... or fist in this case."

Brad reached down and started jacking Ken's cock and it felt like he was jacking himself off; except that someone else's hand always feels better than your own, and this way that's exactly what it felt like. "Oh fuck yeah, man. Yeah that is kinda hot." They started kissing again and stroking each other. Even though Brad was starting to sweat, he pulled his mouth off Ken's and said with a grin, "What the fuck happened to warming me up?" Ken flipped Brad over so his back was against Ken's chest again, and put the head of his cock against Brad's ass and gently pushed himself up to the hilt in one long, slow thrust.

Brad loved this position, and Ken knew it. Brad loved having Ken's arms wrapped around him so his hands could run over his chest and play with his nipples or jack his cock when he was getting close. Brad arched his back a little and started pushing his ass back against Ken's thrusting dick. Ken wanted this to last, so he kept a steady rhythm going.

Ken felt his dick rubbing over Brad's prostrate and it started pushing Brad over the edge after five minutes of constant stimulation. Brad's dick started squirting cum in thick ropes all over his abs and chest, and Ken's arms, which were wrapped around Brad's chest holding him tight. This caused Ken to fire off his cum in Brad's ass as well. It was so hot, and they were both so turned on that they just stayed hard and kept going at it. After the first orgasm Brad felt the extra charge, and started clenching his ass muscles around Ken's cock, rotating, grinding, and pulling mercilessly on the pole that was making him feel so full and complete. Ken was drenched in sweat, and now that he didn't have to hold back as much it escalated everything to a new level. Brad felt it to and it made him squeeze his ass that much harder.

"Oh fuck yeah, B. Fuck yeah. That feels amazing." Of course Brad knew that because he felt it too; their pleasure was resonating off one another. Twenty minutes later, in a breathless pile of cum and sweat, they collapsed on the couch. Ken continued to hold onto Brad, not wanting to let go. The feel of each other's hearts beating was comforting. Ken started kissing the back of Brad's neck and licking the sweat off. Brad just lay there in his lovers arms for a few minutes, while they both just enjoyed the physical and emotional intimacy.

They both drifted in and out of sleep for about an hour before the practical side of Brad exerted itself. With an effort he said, "Alright man, we need to get up. We need to clean the couch, and the kitchen, and we both need a shower before bed." He started peeling their bodies apart and laughed at the noise their skin made as they pulled themselves apart and off the leather couch.

Ken made a huge exaggerated grunt when he pushed himself up to sit on the couch and said, "B, you are such a huge buzz kill dude." Ken looked totally relaxed and did a massive full body stretch, which made every muscle and vein in his body pop out for a few seconds, and turned his face beet red.

Even after all the hot sex he just experienced, that sight caused Brad's dick to stir just a little bit. Brad reached over and grabbed Ken's hand and literally pulled the big man to his feet. "Alright stud, who wants couch cleanup and who wants to clean the dishes?"

Ken said, "You go on back and get in the shower man. I'll clean up out here and be back in a few minutes."

Brad looked at Ken like something was wrong him. "Seriously bro, it's the least I can do for the love of my life." And with that Ken gave him a quick pec on the cheek and then leaned over and swiped his big hand down and scooped up their shorts. "Here, take these with you back to the hamper." Ken moved around the coffee table and into the kitchen, bare assed naked, and started cleaning up. Brad stared at Ken's bubble butt as he strutted over to the kitchen. Knowing that Brad was staring at him he hollered over his shoulder, "Staring at my ass is not taking a shower!"

Brad just smiled and went back to the bathroom and started the hot water running. When it was ready he stepped into the stall and started soaping up. He scrubbed all the sweat and cum off his body and enjoyed feeling the hot water running over his body.

The cold hit him out of the blue like a spear in his gut. It was so severe he couldn't even make a sound. His body jerked so hard he slipped and fell on the tiles. It totally incapacitated him for about a minute. Every bit of the extra energy from his love making with Ken was gone. That feeling of isolation from Ken flashed through his mind again. Oh Fuck... no ....

The freezing sensation in his body started fading, and the hot water slowly warmed him back up. He knew that Ken was in the kitchen, but in his mind Ken was gone forever. As the cold finally left him, the thoughts of isolation faded too. Whatever just happened left him totally drained and scared shitless.

He pulled himself up and shut off the water. He dried off and brushed his teeth. He wanted to tell Ken about what just happened but something in the back of his brain told him not to. He was sure something horrible would happen if he did.

Brad went and crawled into bed and turned the light out in the bedroom. He left the light in the bathroom on for Ken so he wouldn't trip over anything. He turned on his side and pretended to be asleep. Ken wasn't trying to be quiet when he came down the hallway, fully expecting Brad to still be in the bathroom. When he realized Brad was already in the bed, he let out a quiet, "Oh shit..." and stopped making any noise. The light from the bathroom went dark as Ken quietly pulled the door shut. Brad heard Ken taking a shower. He just lay there in bed, his mind racing with what happened and what he felt.

Ken turned out the light and let his eyes adjust before moving into the bedroom. His natural night vision was very good, and he navigated to the bed with no trouble. He gently crawled into the bed so he wouldn't wake Brad. He had wanted to snuggle some more. He loved falling asleep holding Brad but he didn't want to wake him up. So he scooted over so their backs were touching. The contact was enough so send him off to a comfortable contented sleep.

Brad felt Ken's back against his, but for some reason the heat of Ken's body was causing him more anxiety than comfort. His mind was twisting his emotions into feeling what he would lose forever rather than what he had.

Ken woke up about three am. Brad practically had him in a death grip around his chest and ribs and seemed to be having a bad dream. He was trembling and sweating heavily. Ken was immediately worried. Brad couldn't be sick; none of them had gotten sick in the last nineteen years. He put his hand on Brad's forehead and he felt fine. He didn't seem hot or cold, but he was drenched in sweat. He turned on the light on his nightstand, and then put a hand on Brad's shoulder and gently shook him.

"Hey B wake up man. You're dreamin buddy."

Brad jerked up with a start, his eyes wide with fright. He was shaking violently and breathing heavy.

Ken was startled when Brad jumped up. He scrambled back like he was terrified of something, pushing himself against the headboard, his feet kicking and pushing the sheets back.

"Brad! Hey man its ok! It's ok dude!"

Brad's eyes were wide with panic. He thought he heard Ken's voice but couldn't see him, and he sounded far away.

"Brad! Snap out of it man! Wake up!"

His breath coming in gasps, he slowly seemed to be calming down. Ken just sat there staring at him. He wasn't sure what to do other than let Brad calm down some.

Brad seemed to be coming out of it slowly. It took another minute before he seemed to be breathing normally. He seemed calmer. His shook his head and rubbed his eyes and looked up with a confused look on his face. "Ken? What's going on?"

"You tell me bro. That must've been a mother of a bad dream. What was it about?"

"I...I don't remember."

"Hang on a sec." Ken got out of bed and went into the bathroom. Brad could hear him taking a piss, and then the water running in the sink. When Ken came back he had a warm washcloth and a towel. He gave the washcloth to Brad, who used it to wipe the sweat off his face. Ken took the towel and wiped Brad down, drying him off as best he could. Ken's strong hands rubbing him with the towel seemed to calm him down and get him back to normal.

"Thanks man. And sorry about the scare, I really don't know where that came from."

Ken, trying to lighten the mood threw the towel at Brad said, "I didn't do it for you bro. I don't wanna have to sleep next to a stinky pig." Ken turned off the light and pulled Brad back against him wrapping his arm around Brad's chest. He kissed Brad on the shoulder and said,"G'night man."

Brad didn't go back to sleep. He tried. Usually he slept like a baby in Ken's arms. He heard Ken's shallow breathing and felt his hot breath on his shoulder. His love for Ken swelled up inside of him, but instead of being a comfort, his mind was twisting his feelings and all he could think about was losing that love forever. His mind was racing and he couldn't force himself to let go of these thoughts. When the alarm went off at six Brad was still wide awake.

Ken kept a close eye on Brad the next day. Other than being tired he seemed to be ok so he didn't say anything to the doctor about it. Sometimes a bad dream is just a bad dream. He hoped.

He asked Brad about the nightmare later in the day and he said he really didn't remember it.

Ken took care of dinner and cleaned the kitchen so Brad could take it easy. That night Brad was really tired and he went to bed early.

Ken woke up a little after two am and realized Brad wasn't in bed with him. He got up and went down the hall and saw Brad sitting on the couch in the dark.

"B? What're you doin man?"

"Sorry man I can't seem to get to sleep and I didn't want to keep you awake by tossin and turning."

"B, is there something going on we need to talk about?"

"No man I'm good. It's nothing. I'm just a little wired. I think Sally switched from decalf to regular at the office."

Ken moved over to the couch and sat next to Brad and took his hand. It took every ounce of control Brad had to stop his trembling so Ken wouldn't feel it.

"Will you come back to bed and try to get some sleep?"

"I will if you make me a promise."

"What's that?"

"Don't go running to the doc about this man. Seriously, I'm fine."

Brad let Ken pull him up and lead him by the hand back to the bedroom.

When they were in bed Ken pulled Brad back up against him as usual. He whispered in Brad's ear, "B?"

"Hmm?"

"I love you bro."

"I love you too, even if you are a douche." Brad said that in a lighthearted tone to disarm Ken. It must have worked because he felt Ken squeeze his hand a little and then fall back asleep. Brad stayed awake the rest of the night, his eyes open but not really seeing anything. Silent tears were slowly rolling down his cheeks. God, Ken, I'm going to miss you so much bro.

Prelude to Chapter 4

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

His new patron would not meet him in person, and so far all communications were completely one sided, but they shared a common goal, and the General was practically willing to sell his soul to get revenge on that wretched Dr. Thomas for ruining his career. Little did the General realize that his soul was exactly what his new mysterious patron wanted as payment.

Dr. Thomas had covered his tracks so well that even after nearly twenty years the General never was able to discern his whereabouts, or the identities of any member of the Glass Hand Project. His new benefactor must have deep pockets and even deeper contacts because he not only managed to identify former Commander Bruce Dutcher, now Ken Habersham, he also found at least one other member of the team, a Lt. Alan Whetherson, now known as Brad Wilson.

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

He wished Cromwell would hurry up. It was hot outside and the AC in his Escalade was having trouble keeping up with the outside temperature.

A few minutes later he heard another vehicle pull up. Looking into his rear view mirror he saw Dr. Cromwell's tall thin form get out of the car. He wanted to get this over with quickly; the man reeked of pipe tobacco, which always made him sneeze.

He got out of the car and let Cromwell come up to him.

"So do you have it?"

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

Dr. Cromwell handed the General a small flash drive.

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

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

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

General Burgess couldn't wait to get back to his house and review at the contents of the flash drive.

As soon as he arrived home he hurried up to his office and plugged the drive into his PC. When the contents of the drive appeared he entered his encryption code and clicked on the summary file first.

NO! He couldn't believe it! This had to be a joke! What the hell was Cromwell thinking!?

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

The General slammed his fist down so hard his keyboard popped up and nearly fell off his desk.

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

He put the drive back in and entered '42' instead of his normal encryption code. The screen went blank. After a short delay, text started appearing a letter at a time in a large font. It spelled out:

"So long, General Burgess,

and thanks for all the fish!"

The Generals eyes turned white and he stared blankly at the screen after reading the message. He sat there for a few minutes and then got up, flushed the flash drive down the toilet, and went downstairs to clean his golf clubs. All thought and knowledge of his time with Project Glass Hand was now gone from his mind, as though it never existed.

Dr. Cromwell was now in charge of a team of top secret scientists who would spend billions of dollars to calculate the air speed velocity of an unladen swallow; both the African and the European variety, in case there was any doubt of the speed between the two. All memories of their project and time involving Ken were gone.

The Order - Chapter 4

Brad seemed to be going downhill fast and Ken didn't know what to do about it. That day, while Ken was out on assignment with Kevin, he texted the doc and asked to meet at the lab that afternoon. It was a 711 message and the doctor texted him back immediately and said he would be in the lab all day and to come as quickly as time allowed. When they were finished with the job that afternoon Ken said, "Kev buddy we need to swing back by the lab before we go to the office."

"Bro you've been majorly distracted all day today. Is there somethin goin on you wanna talk about?"

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

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

"Yeah I hope so, man. Shit I really hope so." Ken let out a heavy sigh and just stared out the window, worried about Brad, as they drove back to the lab.

When Ken got to the lab he was surprised to see the doc's office door closed and Bryan and Lane in talking to him. From what he could see it looked like a serious conversation. When the doctor saw Ken through the glass he quickly brought things to a close.

Ken hadn't seen Lane or Bryan for a few days, and when they came out of the doctor's office he noticed that Lane looked rough. His handsome face was haggard and his hair was disheveled. He gave a 'whaddup'nod to Kevin and Ken and gave them a subdued "Hey fellas" as he walked by, but his usual mischievous grin was absent. Bryan, following him out, had a helpless look on his face. Bryan gave Kevin and Ken passing backslap's on his way out but didn't say anything.

Ken lowered his head and said under his breath, "Shit! Is everything goin to pot now? What was that about?"

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

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

Ken went in, shut the door and sat down. The doc asked, "Now what did you wish to discuss today?"

"Doc, its Brad. I think somethin's going on with him, but he keeps sayin he's fine. He's not sleeping well, and he's been having nightmares. Every time I try to talk to him he says he doesn't remember what they're about."

"He's been having these cold spells where he shivers, and then other times his body just starts trembling, but he's not cold. Sometimes I'll catch him standin still starin at nothin, but when I ask him what's goin on he tries to hide it and act like everything is ok." Once Ken started talking, everything seemed to come out in a rush.

"Doc, he's pulling away from me. I can feel it, and it hurts like hell, and nothing I do seems to make a difference." Ken rubbed a hand roughly over his face in frustration; his eyes were red and bright with unshed tears.

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

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

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

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

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

"And how are you doing?"

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

The doctor got up from behind his desk and moved around to sit in the chair beside Ken. He patted Ken on the shoulder and gave him a tight squeeze. "I know it hurts, son, but based on what you have told me, I do not think that Bradford is himself right now."

Ken's brow furrowed and he looked intently at the doc, "Wait doc, do you know what's goin on with him?"

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

"Spill it doc!"

With a heavy sigh, the doctor leaned back and looked long and hard at Ken, staring deeply into his eyes like he was hoping to find something, and when he didn't it seemed to confirm his suspicions.

"Kenneth, how much do you remember of your abduction, and what was done to you up until the night you were rescued?"

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

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

"Well... I haven't thought about it much to be honest. I don't really want to remember. I... well...." Ken frowned and he looked confused. He didn't want to remember that horrible time but now that he tried he didn't seem to be able to recall much at all. It all seemed hazy and detached, mostly bits and pieces, and the worst parts were missing completely, leaving big gaps in his memories.

Ken's eyes went wide. "Doc I don't remember much at all!"

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

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

"There are many possibilities, but two seem to be the most prominent. One, you suffered a huge mental and physical trauma and to protect yourself, your mind has sealed off the experience and made it unavailable to your conscious mind. It is a known type of self-induced amnesia, a defensive mechanism that many people employ for self-survival. The other possibility is that the memories are no longer there; which begs the question of where they are and how they got removed."

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

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

Ken wasn't sure how to react to that. What do you say when someone tells you that you should be dead? Brad, what the fuck have you done?!

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

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

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

"So what are you sayin doc? What did he do to me?"

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

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

The doctor had known Ken for nearly twenty years, and he could see the thought processes going through Ken's face. "Doc..."

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

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

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

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

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

"Certainly."

"And doc, what do I tell Kevin and the others?"

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

Kevin was still doing paperwork when he saw Ken finish up with the doc and come over towards his desk. He could see that Ken was really upset but knew his friend would talk when he was ready.

"Ready to go, bud?"

"Yeah man let's head out."

The drive back to the office was silent. Kevin kept looking over at Ken with a worried look on his face. Ken was his Captain and still the unofficial leader of all of them; it was unsettling to see him like this and he didn't know what to do to help.

Kevin dropped Ken off at the entrance to their building and picked up Bill, who was waiting inside the door. Ken walked into the lobby of the suite their office was in and took the stairs up to the fifth floor. When he walked in, Sally was on the phone, so he waved to her as he went by.

Ken went back to the office he and Brad shared. Brad was sitting behind his desk; his chair turned around and staring out the window.

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

Brad spun his chair slowly around. His eyes had that faraway look again, like he was somewhere else. He stood up, grabbed Ken by the tie, and pushed him down into the chair. He shut and locked the door.

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

Brad held his finger up to his lips. "Shhhh..."

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

"B, what the fuck man, we don't have time for this."

Brad unzipped Ken's pants and stuck his hand in to grab his soft dick. Normally this would have Ken rock hard in seconds, but not after everything he had just learned. Brad tried desperately to get Ken hard for a few minutes... jacking and sucking but Ken just sat there in the chair with a stony look on his face and he remained soft. When Brad realized his efforts weren't getting any reaction from Ken he seemed to get a little desperate, and tried that much harder.

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

Brad's voice sounded sad and he quietly said, "Not as sorry as I am." Brad unlocked the door and walked out. Ken stuffed himself back in his pants, zipped up, and walked out to the lobby where Brad was waiting for him.

They both went to the car in silence. Brad normally drove, but Ken jumped into the driver's seat before he had a chance to get in.

As soon as Brad realized they weren't going home he asked where they were going. "We need to pick up some dinner for the doc and swing by the lab to pick up a few things. I say we get something for us too. I don't feel like cooking tonight."

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

They swung through the drive in window at Long John Silver's for the doctor. Ken called PF Chang's and ordered for pickup. It was close to the lab, so they swung by and got their food and they arrived at the lab a few minutes later.

Brad knew something was up when they walked into the lab, but Ken was being careful and keeping an eye on him. He didn't have a chance to run. Besides, Ken could catch him in a heartbeat, and there was no way Brad could overpower or outrun him.

The doctor took his food into his office and left Brad and Ken in the break area to eat their dinner. Instead of sitting at the table, they were both standing and leaning against the counter. Ken had taken his tie off, undone the top few buttons of his shirt, and rolled up his sleeves. To Brad he looked sexy as hell.

Ken had his takeout box of food open and was literally jabbing the chopsticks into his dinner.

Brad said, "If you aren't careful you're gonna poke a hole through that box and make a mess."

Ken didn't respond and continued chewing angrily.

Brad just stared at Ken, going over every detail of his handsome face. He was going to miss the way Ken's jaw muscles moved when he ate; the way his temples moved as he chewed; the way his throat flexed as he swallowed; the way the muscles in his forearms moved as he used the chopsticks. "God, Ken I am going to miss you so much." Too late, Brad realized he said that out loud. Ken froze and went white as a sheet. He felt like he just got punched in the gut.

He looked at Brad, and with a steely glint in his eye he said, "Look B. I'm gonna say this once and only once. I don't know what the fuck you've done, but you aren't goin anywhere and neither am I." Ken moved over in front of Brad and was poking Brad hard in the chest as he said that, pushing him back until Brad almost fell over backwards across the counter. Ken lost it and fell to his knees grabbing Brad around the waist and pressing his face against Brad's stomach. He held on tight, sobbing helplessly. Brad had an almost terrified look on his face.

Ken felt Brad's hand tentatively touch his head, running his fingers through his hair. It started as a comforting, loving caress, but then Brad's hands started trembling violently, and he started frantically trying to push Ken away. It was almost like Ken's touch was physically painful. Brad was breathing heavily and could barely talk, but he started repeating under his breath, "Don't touch me! I can't handle it!"

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

The doctor witnessed most of the exchange, his heart breaking for the two young men.

"Bradford, come here. Kenneth, come in when you are ready, son."

The doctor led Brad into one of the exam rooms. "Please strip down to your underwear and get on the bed."

Like a zombie Brad did as he was told, got on the bed, and lay back.

The doctor gave him a general physical. Brad's pupils were non-responsive, his blood pressure was high, and he had slight hypothermia. He drew some of Brad's blood and as he went out to put the vials in the centrifuge, Ken came into the room. He had changed clothes into jeans and t-shirt. His eyes were red and puffy and he looked pale.

Brad seemed to shirk away from Ken when he walked into the room. Ken noticed and stayed over by the door. Brad's voice was weak, but he looked over at Ken and said, "Please leave."

"I love you B; no matter what. Surely after all this time you know that right?" Ken walked out of the room to find the doctor.

"He asked me to leave Doc. He doesn't want me in the room."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Explain yourself."

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

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

"I've never been so desperate in my entire life. So my subconscious figured out a way to reconnect me to Ken. By the time I figured out how to do that, what was left of his mind was nearly gone. What I connected to was almost unrecognizable as the man I love beyond words. The last shred of his sanity was begging for Kevin to kill him to stop the pain."

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

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

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

The doctor was silent for a few minutes, his brain taking all this in and using his vast knowledge and intellect to figure out a solution. He was stunned at Brad's bravery and his foolishness, and at what he managed to accomplish. The part of him that did this was supposed to be dormant for years to come. With the proper training this never would have happened. How could things be advancing so quickly and so... coincidentally? First Ken discovered the bonding, now Bradford, and Lane making his new discovery... He would have to consider all of this carefully and devise a new strategy moving forward. Assuming he could find a way to save Brad. Ahh Albrecht I miss you now more than ever.

The doctor was shaken out of his thoughts when he heard Ken shout from the other room, "Doc!"

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

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

"I understand, my boy. Lie still and I will be right back." With that he went out to find out what Ken was yelling about.

"Did you hear?"

"Yeah, doc, I heard everything. That stupid son of a bitch is killing himself to save me!" Ken's voice choked up as he said that, and he was shaking badly. He had something in his hand but the doctor couldn't make it out.

"I need to check on the test results. What is it you were yelling at me about?"

Ken lowered his head as if he was embarrassed. "Well... I heard what he was sayin about the sun and kryptonite and I had an idea. Uh... well I figure I can give him what he needs without touching him." With that he put the cup on the counter that he had in his hand.

"Is that..."

Ken blushed a deeper shade of red. "Yeah." It was a sample cup full of Ken's cum.

"Kenneth that is brilliant."

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

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

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

The doctor reached over and picked up the largest empty beaker he could find and shoved it into Ken's hands. "Go get to work, my boy. Remember to drink plenty of liquids so you don't dehydrate yourself."

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

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

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

"Bradford calm down, this is neither. If anything I would consider this a stimulant." He jabbed the needle into Brad's butt and pressed the plunger.

Immediately Brad's eyes widened in surprise. "Doc what the hell was that?"

"It is helping?"

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

"You can thank Kenneth, this was entirely his idea."

Brad's eyes lost their glazed look and he let out a sigh of relief and his body visibly relaxed; the doc could see the tension leave his body with the boost in strength he just received. Brad lay back on the bed, closed his eyes and in seconds he fell asleep.

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

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

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

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

Ken had all night to think about everything he heard. He still didn't know what to say but he knew he had to say something.

"B... before I say anythin else I want to tell you again how much you mean to me bro. You don't have to look at me but I'm gonna have my say and you aren't budgin from that bed until I'm done."

"I can't imagine bein in this world without you buddy. I want you to know that I understand what you did and why you did it. I wish I could stay mad at you but I know I would've done the same thing for you. That doesn't mean it doesn't hurt like hell. When you won't look at me, and I know my touch causes you pain... it hurts me too bro. We're in this together man and with the doc's help we'll figure a way out of this."

Brad still couldn't bring himself to look at Ken. It was taking all his willpower to sit there and not rush over and grab ahold of Ken and hold him tight. Tears started falling down his face while Ken was talking and he began quietly sobbing; his shoulders shaking. He sat up and pulled his knees up to his chest and put his head down and cried.

Ken watched Brad curl his body up on the bed crying. The effort not to move over and take Brad into his arms was almost more than he could take. Ken was breathing hard from the effort and his whole body was shaking.

"God, B, this is killing both of us man, being apart like this. Don't you know there isn't anythin we can't handle if we're together? I can't stand just sittin here and watchin you suffer because of me."

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

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

There was a short pause, while each of them thought about what the other just said.

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

Brad's reaction was instinctive, "Oh Fuck nooo dude, no way! Not with those Dumbo ears of yours!" Brad stopped when realized what Ken just did. The brief grin on his face faded a little bit and he said, "You douche."

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

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

Brad felt a glimmer of hope. Being here with Ken was still hard as hell. He could feel the beast inside of him clawing and pushing up, trying to break out and destroy Ken. But the hope he felt gave him the strength to push it back down.

Brad looked up and made eye contact with Ken and quietly said "Ok."

"You promise?"

"Yeah man I promise."

"Damn that means I'm gonna have to run out to the drugstore."

"Why?"

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

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

"Hey B?

"Yeah?"

"Now isn't this a lot better both of us just cryin like babies?"

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

"Yeah buddy?"

"Come here a sec."

Ken moved over to the bed. Brad scooted over to the edge of the bed and put his legs around Ken's waste. He lowered his forehead and pressed it against the upper part of Ken's chest, took a deep breath, inhaling Ken's musky smell, and said, "Fuck this is gonna hurt." With that he looked up and took Ken's face in his hands, feeling his strength, and brought their lips together. It was short but extremely intense and they were both breathing hard when Brad pulled his lips away. He reached his hands around Ken and brought him in for a tight hug. He squeezed as hard as he could and he felt Ken's arms wrap around him pushing his face tighter against his chest. Ken could feel Brad's warm breath against him through his t-shirt. They were both hard.

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

Ken leaned down and kissed the top of Brad's head. He could see the strain on Brad's face and knew that display of affection cost him a lot so he moved away. "B I'm sorry man but I need to get outta here for a minute and cool or off or I'm gonna end up rippin your clothes off."

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

"Hey are you hungry?"

"Yeah I'm starving."

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

Brad watched Ken as he turned and headed out; those blue jeans hugging his marbled ass, and that t-shirt hugging his huge frame. I promise I'll hold out as long as I can man. I'll give it everything I have for you. But deep down Brad already had an idea of what was happening inside his body and he didn't know how much time he had left.

Ken got to his Explorer but instead of getting in he collapsed on the ground with his back against the front tire and just sat still. The events of the previous night and today were repeating in his mind and the front that he put on for Brad finally shattered; he crossed his arms over his knees and put his head down and he fell apart. He had to get it out of his system, and he couldn't do it in front of Brad. He had to stay strong and be the rock. He knew that Brad wasn't out of the woods yet, but at least now Ken felt like they had a fighting chance.

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

Even as Lane was saying "Hey Ken... fuck bro what's wrong?" Lane saw Ken on the ground, his face a wreck and wet with tears, unshaven, and eyes bloodshot. Lane and Bryan both rushed over to him, their faces full of concern for their friend.

Ken's voice was raw with emotion and he said, "Hey guys... sorry I wasn't expectin you to pull up and I was just gettin some shit outta my system. Brad's not doing so good." Ken's head dropped and the tears started up again, his shoulders shaking. Bryan knelt down and grabbed Ken, pulling him into a tight bear hug and whispered, "Take as long as you need to get it out." Ken felt Lane join the hug from behind, pushing up against his back. The two big men had him sandwiched between them and they held him until he stopped crying.

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

Bryan put a hand up and interrupted Lane, "Where are you off to?"

Ken sniffed and wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. "I was headin out to get some food for me and Brad and the doc."

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

Ken filled them in on everything that happened, leaving nothing out. He wasn't sure the doctor wanted anyone else knowing what was going on just yet, but Ken badly needed to talk with someone else that could relate to what he was going through.

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

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

"Know what?"

"Well Bry and I, we tried that trick that you and Brad figured out. It's been fuckin awesome, just like you said." Bryan just grinned.

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

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

"So what does he think about this?"

"He thinks it's another ability manifesting, but he's not sure what. He said it might be precognitive, whatever the fuck that means. The only thing is I feel like I need to finish that song and it's drivin me nuts."

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

When they got back, as they were getting out of the car, Ken gave them both a big, heartfelt hug. "Thanks guys. I feel better bein able to talk about this shit with someone who can relate. I love the doc but sometimes I'm not sure he gets everythin on the emotional side."

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

Ken just laughed and shook his head, seeing the irony of what Lane just told him. Lane asked him, "What's so funny?"

"That's exactly what I told Brad before we left."

Lane laughed and said, "See man, you need to listen to your own bullshit."

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

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

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

The next day the doctor called Ken into his office. He shut the door after Ken came in and he had a serious look on his face.

Ken looked at him at him, steeling himself for bad news.

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

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

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

Ken had a knot in his stomach. He struggled to keep his voice even and asked "How long?"

"It is not exact but another few weeks at best. I might be able to counter the effects and slow it down, but at this point the end result is inevitable. I am so sorry."

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

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

Brad was beyond tired. His soul was exhausted with the constant battle to keep the beast caged inside of him. He wished Ken was here right now, but at the same time was glad he wasn't; kryptonite and yellow sun. Brad drifted off to sleep...

... and was in the dream again. It was beautiful here. He had wonderful memories of this place from his childhood. One of the few memories he had or cared to remember. The river flowed by slow but strong. The bubbling sound of the water was soothing. He heard the beast scream and Brad walked back down the little trail to the cage. It was really an old fort that he and a friend had built when they were kids. He could see the little structure rattling, and some of the boards were coming loose, but it was holding. The strength of this memory, and how happy he was as a kid when he was here, was still too strong for it.

He picked a few dead branches from the ground and tried to shore up the little fort as best he could. There were knot holes in some of the boards and he could see a few bloody fingers poking through trying to get a grip and break out. Moving closer, he tried to get a better look at the creature through one of the knot holes. A piercing green eye appeared at the knot hole startling him and causing him to jump back and lose his balance.

He could tell the creature was getting stronger. It was changing; looking more and more like Ken from the night of the rescue. It had all the broken bones, the flayed and burned skin, and it was covered in dark, wet, slick, blood. He knew it wasn't Ken. Not his Ken, but a part of Ken that he needed to keep here. If he died, then this place would die with him, and the creature would be gone forever and unable to get to Ken.

About halfway back to the beach Brad heard music. It was faint, but it sounded like someone playing a guitar. He made it back to the beach and looked around. Across the river he saw a man sitting on a large rock, holding a guitar in his lap, playing a song. The melody was hauntingly beautiful.

The man wasn't alone. There were a whole group of people over there camping. His blood ran cold when he saw Ken walk out from the tree line and stop at the water's edge. He recognized all of them now; Kevin, Bill, Pat, Darren, Ricky, Loy, Bryan, Lane, and Ken.

Lane was the one sitting on the rock playing his guitar. He was a great musician, and he always played and sang for them when they would have pool parties at the house. Brad smiled fondly, remembering all the good times they had at the house with their friends. In the winter when the pool was covered, they had a nice fire pit and they would all cook out together and Lane would play his guitar. Bryan would sometimes play the bongos, and even sing, if he had time to practice with Lane beforehand. His deep, rumbling baritone complimented Lane's smooth tenor nicely.

Lane seemed to be the only one who saw Brad, and he stood up and waved. Snapping back to himself, Brad moved to the edge of the water and started frantically yelling for them to leave. They had to get Ken out of this place or everything he's gone through will be wasted, and Ken would die!

The creature screamed again, a long howl filled with rage and frustration. He rushed back down the trail towards the fort.

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

His voice was a little groggy, but he said "Hey B...you alright? Another nightmare?"

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

"Do you need me to get the doc?"

His eyes were open wide in a panic and his chest was heaving "Ken! Hurry man! I need a shot now! No time to get the doc!" He sounded desperate and exhausted and his body was shaking violently.

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

After a few seconds, Brad's breathing started to slow and the trembling lessened.

Ken tentatively asked, "You ok now man?"

"Yeah." He leaned over and turned on the bed lamp and then fell back on the pillows and closed his eyes, exhausted. He didn't see the tears or the look of desperation on Ken's face.

Ken woke up before Brad. The lamp was still on and he stood up and moved over beside the bed. Brad looked tired but not nearly as bad as last night. Whatever that nightmare was it had taken its toll on him, but he looked a little better now.

He heard the lab door open, and quietly left the room so he wouldn't disturb Brad. Kevin and Bill arrived with breakfast. Ken knew he looked rough, and probably smelled, but didn't care.

Kevin just said, "Come here buddy" and pulled him into a tight hug.

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

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

Bill moved over behind Ken and pushed him down onto one of the lab stools and started rubbing his shoulders. "Dude I'm sorry to break the news to you, but you look like shit. You need to take better care of yourself if you're gonna to be of any use to Brad."

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

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

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

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

Bryan and Lane only lived about fifteen minutes away. They had a really nice place too. Bryan was quite the gardener and their yard was in full bloom, and when Ken looked at the backyard, he saw the vegetable garden and the flower beds were going strong. He stood there staring into the back yard through the sliding glass doors and tears started slowly falling down his face. He was thinking how happy Bryan and Lane were, and how happy he and Brad have been all these years. Now everything was uncertain and thinking about a life without Brad scared the hell out of him. Pretty soon, Brad was going to be gone, unless they could figure something out. And right now the doc was fresh out of ideas.

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

Lane went up to Ken and grabbed his hand and pulled him down the hallway and into the bathroom. He started the hot water running in the huge bathtub they had, and squirted something into the bath water. Ken seemed to be in a bit of a fog and was letting himself be led around. Lane untucked Ken's shirt and lifted it over his head.

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

Ken looked at him, his brow creased slightly in curiosity.

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

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

"I'm not pushin this, but I know how highly sexed you are. You aren't getting your needs taken care of like they should be. So I'm offering that to you if you want me to help you out. Bryan is totally cool with it, before you ask."

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

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

"Ok man. I totally respect that."

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

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

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

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

"A bubble bath? Really?"

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

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

Lane rolled up a towel and laid it down as a headrest.

"Ok man I need you to lean back and put your head on the towel. Just relax."

Lane got on the floor and knelt over him, so when Ken opened his eyes he was staring upside down at Lane's big chest.

Lane saw him looking and grinned. "Quit peepin. Close your eyes and relax."

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

"Ok now for part two. You have some serious bedhead goin on. You're way overdue for a haircut." Lane was a great barber and had Ken looking like his old self in no time.

"Alright let's get you dried off and come with me. You can keep a towel on if you want but I'm sure Bry would enjoy the show if you wanna leave it here." Ken heard Lane's infectious laugh and Lane said, "He's already gonna be jealous that I've been handlin the goods."

Lane took him into their bedroom, which had the same massage chair that he and Brad had in theirs. Again Lane was very thorough, and spent a good hour going over Ken, working every kink out of his huge muscled frame. Lane was humming that tune again as he worked, and between his soothing voice and his strong hands Ken was so relaxed that he fell asleep shortly into the massage.

When Lane was finished, he was horny as hell and dripping with sweat. He left as quietly as he could and tried not to wake Ken up. He ran down the hallway and got Bryan.

"Hey man he's passed out in the chair. Can you come help me get him into bed?"

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

Bryan saw Ken's big body on the massage chair and leaned over and whispered into Ken's ear. "Just relax man. You're exhausted and need to take a nap, so I'm gonna put you into our bed."

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

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

When Ken finally woke up it was dark outside. He found his clothes, washed and folded, on the dresser. He felt like a new man. Something smelled delicious and his stomach rumbled loudly.

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

Bryan's deep voice greeted him as soon as he saw Ken coming down the hallway, "How'd ya sleep man?"

"Like a fuckin rock. You guys shouldn't have let me sleep so long."

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

"Shit guys, this is awesome."

Lane went over to the fridge and opened the door,"What'cha wanna drink man? We got a great red wine, beer, sweet tea, Coke, Dr. Pepper, milk, or water."

"Beer sounds great."

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

Ken knew what Bryan and Lane were doing, and it made him feel good. After everything that's been going on in the last few weeks Ken relished in the normalcy of a good dinner with good friends. He joined the friendly banter that was a constant between his two buddies, just like it was with him and Brad. He didn't realize how badly he needed this. He felt guilty that Brad wasn't here, and couldn't join them.

The doctor always says the human brain is a funny thing; in the time spent with his two friends, Ken came to a conscious decision that he realized he had already made and just hadn't admitted to himself yet. He would stand with Brad and they would beat this thing together or they would both die trying.

He helped Bryan and Lane clean up and get the food packed up to take back to the lab. He felt his mood shift when they pulled up to the lab, but his friends had done wonders for him and he didn't let his mood get the best of him. Now that he had made his decision he felt a tremendous weight lift off his shoulders.

Bryan and Lane dropped off Ken and the food, and they both gave Ken a long supportive hug before they left. When they got back to the house Lane got out his guitar and started working on the song from his dream again. He was frustrated because it seemed just out of reach and he was so close.

Since Lane and Bryan spent all afternoon making out, they only had one round of sex before they went to bed. Lane fell asleep with his head lying on Bryan's chest, listening to his heartbeat and letting it relax him.

Lane shot out of bed about three am and ran naked out of the bedroom and into the den.

Bryan let out a low "What the fuck?" and took off after him.

Lane was on the couch and had his guitar on his lap. He was strumming some chords.

Bryan stopped and stared not sure what was going on. Lane's emerald green eyes were almost white. Lane turned and looked into Bryan's eyes and said, "Fuck yeah, bro! I got this son of a bitch!"

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

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

Lane started playing, and it was both beautiful and haunting at the same time. By the end of the first stanza, Bryan's crystal blue eyes went white and his mouth opened up in surprise. He felt a tugging at his mind, and he felt warm sunshine on his face, and a gentle warm breeze flowing over his body.

As soon as Ken got back to the lab he went to check on Brad and found him asleep. His skin was starting to look grey and his face was haggard. Ken sat down in the chair by the door and stayed with Brad through the night sleeping lightly in case Brad needed anything. Brad woke up once to go to the bathroom and saw Ken was there.

As soon as Brad got close he could smell Ken. Brad noticed that he had shaved and gotten a haircut – probably Lane. As soon as he breathed in the clean, fresh smell, and the distinct smell of Ken, it caused him to stumble like he had been hit by a truck. The smell was like crack to the creature and it went wild inside of him, ripping and clawing at the cage in Brad's mind. His hand instinctively went out to try and regain his balance and he ended up grabbing onto Ken's shoulder. As soon as his hand touched Ken it was like Brad had a full body seizure. His back arched and he lost control and would have fallen if Ken wasn't there to catch him. Ken was prepared and had a syringe ready and waiting, expecting this to happen. He was starting to figure out how this thing worked. He pulled Brad to his chest with one arm and with the other he jabbed the needle into Brad's ass. He got Brad on the bed as quickly as he could and moved away. It took a lot longer this time for Brad to recover. He was breathing hard and was exhausted.

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

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

"No think I can manage, but thanks."

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

Ken's tears weren't from sadness this time, they were from anger. Hold on just one more day, Brad. Tomorrow night we are going to end this one way or the other.

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

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

A couple of the guys dropped off food for Brad, Ken, and the doctor. Once the doctor finished he went over to his office and nodded for Ken to follow him in. He shut the door and sat down.

"You have something to say." It was a statement, not a question.

"Yes, sir."

"You have made a decision?"

"Yes, sir. But I don't want Brad to know what's going on. That thing inside of him will know too."

"That is probably a very wise move."

"Doc, I can't take watchin him slowly die in front of me like this. Tonight, I want to have everyone over to the house for a cookout. I want to tell Brad it's for him, to get him out of here for a night and to be with all our friends. And that's not a lie. Spending time with Bryan and Lane last night did wonders for me."

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

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

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

"Believe me, my boy, it is for the best. My presence could seriously hamper your chances of success. I wish that were not so, but it is. Rest assured I will be close by, but I am not permitted to say more."

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

Ken got in touch with everyone about getting together at his place that night. Everyone said they would be there come hell or high water. Ken asked them to be over a little early so he could talk with them. He asked Kevin and Bill if they would mind going to get Brad after the meeting.

Ken went into Brad's room. Brad's eyes were closed but Ken knew he was awake. His breathing was shallow. His skin was turning yellow from jaundice.

"Hey buddy, how you doin?"

"I'm gettin tired man. I'm sorry bro, I'm still fightin, but I don't know how much longer I can hold on."

"I know buddy. I know. Hey I had an idea. Last night Bry and Lane took me to their place. Just being out of this stuffy lab for a few hours did wonders for me. What say we have a little gathering tonight at our place? All the guys want to see you. I'll have some shots there if you need them, and I'll give you plenty of space to make it as easy as possible for you. The doc said it was ok if you feel up to it."

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

Ken lowered his head, his throat tight with emotion. "Yeah, there's that. I'll c'ya tonight buddy. Kevin and Bill will be by around six'ish to pick you up."

Ken left quickly before he lost it again. Seeing Brad like this tore him up, but it also strengthened his resolve to win this fight and save them both.

Ken went to buy groceries and get the house ready. He had to go against orders and go by himself because of the work schedule at the office. He dared anyone or anything to mess with him; even wishing someone would show up and claim responsibility for everything so he could beat the shit out of them. It took most of the day to get the house in order and the food prepared. Ken got cleaned up and he put on Brad's favorite cologne. Everyone started showing up around five.

Ken noticed that Lane had brought two of his guitars, one acoustic and one electric, and that Bryan had his bongo drums under one arm and a big amplifier under his other.

The den was full with everyone packed into the room. They were all paired up as partners, either on the couch, on the floor, or in chairs. Ken noticed, maybe because Brad wasn't here, that everyone was touching; either holding hands, or an arm around the other's shoulder, or one leaning back against the other.

The mood was very subdued and there was none of the usual banter. Most of them had a beer or a glass of wine in hand.

They all looked at him expectantly. Ken was their Captain and they were waiting for what he had to say.

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

Ken's throat was starting to tighten up. Most of the guy's eyes were bright with unshed tears. "As the saying goes, desperate times call for desperate measures. I'm going to end this tonight, one way or another. Either I save us both, or we both die tonight, along with the thing that is inside Brad."

There were some whispered 'oh shits' and 'fuck me's'when he said that.

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

"The doc can't be here tonight."

There were some confused looks when Ken said that.

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

"Brad doesn't know any of this and I couldn't tell him; the thing inside of him would know too and I don't want to lose the element of surprise. Honestly I don't even know how this is going to go down. I'm not sure what will happen when this starts or what you will see or hear."

"I want you all to know how much you mean to me and Brad. If tonight goes south... well then this is goodbye. Brad thinks tonight is about saying goodbye. If I'm going to have any chance of success I'll need every ounce of strength that he has left in him. I think together we can beat this thing."

Lane raised his hand to get Ken's attention. "Ken, I'm not sure how this is gonna to play out, but I finished the song last night, and I know it's connected to this somehow. I think somehow it'll help, I just don't know how. All I know is that I need to play it tonight."

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

"Okay ladies, time to use the Kleenex and shut off the water works. Remember that tonight is about Brad. The better he feels the stronger he will be. Everyone just be your normal fuck up selves and make him happy."

Kevin and Bill left to go get Brad. Rick, Loy, Pat, and Darren wanted a little more info. They had been covering the security jobs the last week and were the most out of the loop. Ken did his best to fill them in. Lane set up his amp and Bryan started the grill.

Everyone was quiet and pensive; this was uncharted territory for all of them. This wasn't an enemy that they could shoot or fight with their hands. But every one of them indicated to Ken in their own way that they were there for him and Brad, and would do whatever was required of them.

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

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

"What do you think is gonna happen? Should I be worried?"

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

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

It was almost dark by the time they pulled up. Brad was weak and moving slow, but he insisted on making his own way into the gathering. As soon as he made it to the door into the kitchen he was greeted loudly and happily by all his brothers. All of the guys covered their emotions really well even though they were all shocked by how he looked when he came through the door. He had lost a lot of weight, and was moving very slow. Everyone gave him a tight hug and a slap on the back. Someone shoved a beer into his hand at some point. As soon as anyone pulled him into a hug they realized how weak he was; but everyone acted like this was just another summer get together, one of many, with many more to come.

Brad looked around for Ken and didn't see him. He smiled briefly but sadly, and headed out to the back yard. Bryan had his apron on and was grilling the steaks. Their grill was huge, because of all the cookouts they had. Their house was the main gathering place for most of the parties. Bryan had the steaks on one side of the grill, and on the other side he had ears of corn wrapped in foil, baked potatoes, and fresh asparagus coated in butter. Brad could smell bread baking in the kitchen; probably Bryan's famous yeast rolls. Brad hadn't felt hungry in days, but his stomach actually rumbled from all the smells.

Someone had started a small fire in the fire pit, and even though he was wearing a hoodie over his t-shirt he felt chilled, so he moved over and sat down on the grass by the fire with his back to the small brick retaining wall that made up part of the flower bed. He leaned his head back and tried to soak everything in. He felt better now than when he walked in the door. Ken was right; this was good for him, but it just prolonged the inevitable.

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

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

While Brad stayed put, everyone chipped in on clearing all the plates and getting them into the kitchen. The warmth of the fire, the clean fresh air, the voices of his friends all around him; it all made him feel very content. The only thing missing was Ken. Brad put his head back and closed his eyes. He was really tired, but for the first time in days it was a normal tired. He felt like he could drift off to sleep, surrounded by the warmth of the fire and the sound of all his friends talking.

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

Brad did doze for a bit, but he woke up when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He could smell Ken even before he opened his eyes.

"Hey B, scoot up a little man." Ken practically picked Brad up and moved him forward, and Ken sat down so his back was against the brick wall, and he pulled Brad back against his chest, his strong arms wrapping around him. Brad felt a needle stick in his arm.

"Ken..."

"Relax B. I know what I'm doin." He nodded over to Lane, who put down his electric guitar and picked up his acoustic one.

Lane looked over at Brad and with his infectious grin said, "Here goes nothing!", and he started playing the most beautiful haunting melody.

Nature nurture heaven and home  
Sum of all and by them driven  
To conquer every mountain shown  
But I've never crossed the river

By the end of the first stanza, Lane's eyes turned white. Bryan started on the drums and his eyes flared white as well. Lane felt his mind opening up, like he was being transcended by the music. He felt it lift his spirit up, and he felt Bryan right there with him. He had never experienced anything like this in his life, and it was wonderful. It was like he could see the music in the air around him, moving out from his guitar and through his body and igniting something inside of him, and all of them, that could never again be extinguished.

Everyone could feel the music. I wasn't just a song; it had some deeper meaning and all of them could feel it tugging at their minds. All of them felt something unlock inside of them, like a door opening that could never be closed. Ken felt it and knew it was the right time to start his plan.

None of them could see or hear the giant robed form of a man crouched by the hedges. Even crouched his head nearly reached the roofline. A cowl covered his face, but he was watching intently, and as soon as Lane started playing his song the figure stood up and looked skyward. His massive head nodded once and he bowed to the humans who were unaware of his presence, and vanished.

Ken leaned forward and kissed Brad's cheek and hugged him tighter. "I love you man. I can't stand this anymore, so we are ending this tonight one way or another. Don't fight me B... help me kill this thing so we can be rid of it." Ken closed his eyes tight and buried his face in the crook of Brad's shoulder.

Brad panicked and tried to move away, but Ken had him securely in his grip. "Fuck! You idiot, you don't understand..." Brad's voice faded as he lost consciousness, his eyes going white and his body slumped back against Ken. The song carried them both out of their bodies and to the River.

Braved the forests, braved the stone  
Braved the icy winds and fire  
Braved and beat them on my own  
Yet I'm helpless by the river

Angel, angel, what have I done?  
I've faced the quakes, the wind, the fire  
I've conquered country, crown, and throne  
Why can't I cross this river?

Angel, angel, what have I done?  
I've faced the quakes, the wind, the fire  
I've conquered country, crown, and throne  
Why can't I cross this river?

Pay no mind to the battles you've won  
It'll take a lot more than rage and muscle  
Open your heart and hands, my son  
Or you'll never make it over the river

It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

(Nature, nurture heaven and home) - Bryan  
It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
(Sum of all, and by them, driven) - Bryan  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
(To conquer every mountain shown) - Bryan  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

(Braved the forests, braved the stone) - Bryan  
It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
(Braved the icy winds and fire) - Bryan  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
(Braved and beat them on my own) - Bryan  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

And together we'll cross the river – Bryan and Lane  
And together we'll cross the river – Bryan and Lane

Nature, nurture heaven and home –Lane  
And together we'll cross the river – Bryan and Lane  
And together we'll cross the river – Bryan and Lane

Nature, nurture heaven and home –Lane  
And together we'll cross the river – Bryan and Lane  
And together we'll cross the river– Bryan and Lane

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

He realized that Brad wasn't with him, but he could hear him yelling from far off. It took him a few seconds but in the light of the full moon he saw Brad across the River, on the shore waving his arms frantically. Fuck! We were supposed to be together!

The Order - Chapter 5

Brad knew where he was right away. In this place, out of his body and inside of his mind, he was healthy and whole. He heard the river flowing, and felt the cool evening breeze off the water. He expected to see Ken beside him when he opened his eyes, but was shocked to find him gone.

No! He was on the wrong side!

He went numb with fear, as he looked across and saw Ken on the far side of the river, in the cove that lead to the tree fort, beside a large bonfire. He tried to rush forward but was stopped by an invisible barrier at the edge of the water.

He desperately started slamming his fists against it and yelling "Ken, you stupid idiot, get out of there! You don't understand! It's to strong! Kennnnnnnnn!" He kept yelling, terrified by what he knew was about to happen and helpless to do anything about it.

A horrific scream cut through the woods behind him, sending a chill down his spine. He knew it was the creature. Even as the creature could sense his presence, he could feel it as well. It was at the edge of his awareness but he could feel it; he could feel its need and desire to return home.

Ken cupped his hands in front of his mouth and yelled as loud as he could, "Alright you bastard, come and find me!" The creature, recognizing his voice and sensing him near, screamed in rage and hunger. Ken heard a loud crash, and the sound of wood splintering, and he knew the creature had finally broken free of whatever prison Brad had it trapped in. Fuck, B I wish you were beside me. I know together we could kick this things ass.

Ken stooped over and pulled a large log out of the bonfire; the end was glowing bright orange and flames were running off the tip at least a foot high. He swung it a few times like a bat to make sure it was sturdy, and then he moved back to the water's edge facing the woods. He knelt down to wait, wanting to draw it into the clearing and away from the cover of the trees.

He heard it crashing through the underbrush, coming closer. Suddenly it emerged from the woods and stopped, sensing his presence. Their eyes met and Ken felt like he was staring into his own green eyes, but that's where the resemblance ended. The creature's muscles gleamed in the firelight, covered in slick, wet blood. Its arms and legs were broken, with splinters of bone sticking out through the skin at various points. It had burn marks all over, and large patches of skin missing, showing exposed muscles and tendons. Its face was swollen and bruised... but it had his eyes. As damaged as the creature appeared to be, it moved blindingly fast. There was nothing but rage and madness in its face and eyes.

Ken was stunned by its appearance. Fuck, is that how I looked when they found me?

Even though he was prepared Ken was still surprised by the creatures speed. It lunged for him, moving across the cove from the edge of the woods with blinding speed. Ken dodged to the side and barely managed to avoid getting hit by a blood covered fist. He twisted around and with both arms swung the log as hard as he could and heard it crack across the creatures back. The log split in two from the strength of his blow, sparks flying from the end that was still on fire, causing the creature to stumble forward. It let out another blood curdling scream, but Ken wasn't sure if it was from pain or if was just annoyed. It whirled around and was on him again before he could react. Ken never saw the blow that backhanded him and sent him reeling back through the air. His landing was softened by the sand of the beach but the blow was so hard it stunned him for a few seconds; long enough for the creature to jump on him while he was on the ground trying to shake the cobwebs out of his head. Ken had never been hit so hard. Fuck! Maybe this wasn't such a good idea.

He rolled and tried to scramble away as the creature took another swipe at him. Its fingers scraped across his back, ripping his shirt and scoring long deep cuts into his flesh. Ken yelled in pain, arching his back in agony as he scrambled away. The creature was on him again immediately, not giving him any time to recover, relentless in its aggression and hatred. It straddled his waste and struck back to back blows across his face. Ken's head snapped back and forth and he saw stars, unable to focus.

It paused for a brief second, watching Ken's eyes glaze over. It reached down and grabbed the front of Ken's t-shirt, ripping it off and throwing it aside. Ken's chest was heaving and he was sweating; his muscles standing out in the sharp shadows cast by the bonfire.

The creature put one hand high up Ken's chest above his collar bone and stretched its bloody fingers out until they wrapped around the base of his neck. It pressed down hard enough to cut off his oxygen supply. The creature looked at its other hand, and with an almost beatific smile on its face licked some of the blood off, and then slowly brought its hand down, fingers splayed out stiffly, onto the center of Ken's chest.

As soon as its hand touched his chest, Ken's eyes went wide and his mouth flew open in a silent scream. Pain tore through his entire body; every muscle, vein, and cord standing out from the strain. His combat instincts took over in a gut reaction to the pain and, coupled with the adrenaline that flooded into his system, he struck the creature so hard it flew ten feet into the air and landed in the fire, sending sparks flying high up into the night sky.

As soon as its hand touched his chest, memories of the torture and suffering he had gone through started flooding back into his mind. Ken knew he had to keep the creature from touching him like that again or he would be done for.

Shit that hurt!

Brad could see the fight across the water as he beat his fists against the invisible barrier that was holding him back. He knew that no matter how strong Ken was the creature would be stronger. It wasn't just driven by rage and insanity – it was rage and insanity. The only intelligence it had was the drive to find a way back to Ken and devour his mind. It was a creature of thought and malice, given physical form in this constructed place within Brad's mind, but its strength came from all the pain and torture that had destroyed Ken's mind the first time.

In that instant, Brad knew that he and Ken were both going to die. But damn if he was going to let Ken die alone! At least he could lessen Ken's pain. With no thought towards what it would do to his own body or mind, Brad opened the place in himself he had been so desperately holding shut to protect Ken.

The pain hit him hard, and he fell to the ground, clutching his head as Ken's torment and suffering ripped through his mind. You son of a bitch, give me all you got! The more you give me the less you have for him!

Ken felt the connection as soon as Brad reached out with it. No, B! No! Fuck! He knew that Brad was trying to save him, but he also knew the creature was to strong, and now that it was free they were both going to die. He didn't understand how the creature could be so strong. How had Brad held it trapped? The memory of his conversation with Brad came back to him,

"What the fuck are you talkin about bro? You are the strongest person I know! Oh my God man how can you say that? You have no idea do you? For someone so smart you can sure be a dumbass sometimes!"

The creature screamed in rage again, sensing that someone else, the one who had kept it prisoner all this time, was still interfering. It spun and clotheslined Ken, knocking him back down onto the sand. It moved so fast there was no stopping it. As strong and as fast as Ken was, with all his combat training and skills, he was like a little boy fighting a grown man. He had no chance.

Its hand plunged into Ken's chest. There was no blood; its hand simply disappeared into Ken's body and it howled in pleasure as it fulfilled its purpose.

As Ken felt his sanity slipping away, through the blinding fire of pain and agony, he had two unrelated thoughts. The first was how much he loved Brad; he wanted nothing more than to be in his arms right now. The second was an epiphany about the Project, the doctor, and his work. The Vitruvian Man - the man in a circle and square by Leonardo da Vinci that the doctor used as a symbol for the Project; it was also referred to as the Proportions of Man - The Body, Mind, and Spirit. The pairing of Ken and Brad and the others; it all made sense now. Ken was the Body, Brad was the Mind, and their Spirits were one – two souls transcended into one by Love. How could science do that? There was more to the doc than they ever realized. You clever, clever, man, doc. The thought somehow gave him strength to face his end with grace. He stopped fighting and let the part of him that was missing come back home.

Ken lay still; his breath shallow. His eyes were blank; his mind gone. The creature faded into nothingness as the very essence that gave it form went back into Ken where it belonged.

Brad lay still, across the river. He was barely conscious; his breath coming in ragged gasps. He wanted to let go and stop the pain. If he let go it would all stop, but there was something tugging at his mind that wouldn't let him rest. It was getting louder. It was a song and it sounded vaguely familiar. It was beautiful... and powerful. He knew as long as the music was playing he wouldn't be able to let go and be at peace. He wouldn't be able to try to find Ken in Heaven.

Nature nurture heaven and home  
Sum of all and by them driven  
To conquer every mountain shown  
But I've never crossed the river

Braved the forests, braved the stone  
Braved the icy winds and fire  
Braved and beat them on my own  
Yet I'm helpless by the river

Angel, angel, what have I done?  
I've faced the quakes, the wind, the fire  
I've conquered country, crown, and throne  
Why can't I cross this river?

Angel, angel, what have I done?  
I've faced the quakes, the wind, the fire  
I've conquered country, crown, and throne  
Why can't I cross this river?

Pay no mind to the battles you've won  
It'll take a lot more than rage and muscle  
Open your heart and hands, my son  
Or you'll never make it over the river

It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

(Nature, nurture heaven and home)  
It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
(Sum of all, and by them, driven)  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
(To conquer every mountain shown)  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

(Braved the forests, braved the stone)  
It'll take a lot more than words and guns  
(Braved the icy winds and fire)  
A whole lot more than riches and muscle  
(Braved and beat them on my own)  
The hands of the many must join as one  
And together we'll cross the river

And together we'll cross the river  
And together we'll cross the river

Nature, nurture heaven and home  
And together we'll cross the river  
And together we'll cross the river

Nature, nurture heaven and home  
And together we'll cross the river  
And together we'll cross the river

The tempo of the song was slow, and it was a little over five minutes before Lane and Bryan brought it to a close. Ken and Brad were both unconscious and their breathing shallow. Ken's arms were still wrapped tight around Brad. Bill knelt down beside them and he gently held Ken's wrist to feel his pulse. It was slow and sporadic.

His voice was subdued as he said, "Guys this doesn't look good. Maybe we should call the doc."

The silence was deafening. Lane's song was still resonating in their hearts, and they all felt something profound was happening. Each of them felt that icy calm that always came over them just before a difficult mission.

Ken's arms fell down to his sides and his head fell back. Brad's body slumped further down, draped over Ken's chest. Their faces were relaxed and peaceful and they stopped breathing.

Bill's throat tightened and he managed to choke out a sob and lowered his head, cupping his hand on Ken's strong shoulder. Everyone's eyes were bright and tears started unabashedly flowing down everyone's cheeks.

Lane's voice cut through the silence, "Fuck this shit! This isn't how it was supposed to go down! I know it! I can feel it! We're missin sumthin! There's no fuckin way they are dead!"

Bryan's deep gravelly voice cut through the sadness that was beginning to overwhelm them, and he said, "Guys, we're idiots. The words were tellin us what to do all along. It's a riddle. Lane, start playin Little Buddy, I don't think we have much time!"

Lane started the song again, forcing himself to keep his hands steady, but his face gave away the desperation he and everyone else felt. As soon as Lane started singing the lyrics again, the words starting falling into place in their minds. Kneeling around Ken and Brad, they all formed a circle, and everyone gripped hands tightly together. The hands of the many must join as one. Bill was on one end of the circle and was touching Ken and Darren was on the other end touching Brad. Lane had to play, so they put their hands on his shoulders; as the first cord on the guitar sung out, their eyes starting turning white. They were all carried by the music to that place that was waking in all of them. They all heard the sound of flowing water. And together we'll cross the river. All of them focused as one on helping Ken and Brad, willing them to breathe and sending them strength to fight this battle that none of them really understood.

Even the slightest movement was causing him excruciating pain, but Brad knew he had something else to do before the music would let him go. It was stirring something in him, and even through the pain, it gave him a strange sense of wellbeing and belonging; and something else he couldn't quite figure out yet. The pain didn't lessen, but the music helped him to punch through it.

He could hear Lane's voice singing the song clearly now, and along with it he could feel the love and support of all his friends. Their presence was overpowering, wrapping him up and bolstering his soul. Whatever it was inside of him that was stirring, his friends were somehow taking part in it and making it stronger.

He opened his eyes and saw Ken lying not two feet from him.

His voice was barely a whisper, "Ken?"

How did I get over here? Brad had felt no sense of movement, but he was now across the river, beside his lover.

He felt something inside of him opening up; not in his mind but in his heart. The words of the song were echoing in his mind "Open your heart and hands my Son..."

Is this what it's like to die?

Brad had just enough strength left to crawl over and lay beside Ken. He rolled his body over, so he could lay his head on the chest of his best friend and lover. The last thing he wanted to feel was Ken's warm body and his heartbeat...

Something was different. He felt warm and safe. His brain finally registered that the pain was gone! His senses starting asserting themselves and Brad realized he was naked. He felt Ken's arms wrapped around his stomach and chest, and he was leaning back against Ken's torso. Ken was naked and seemed to be asleep. His chest was rising and falling with slow, deep breaths, and he could feel Ken's warm body and strong heartbeat against his back. Ken's chin was lodged in its usual spot, in the crook of Brad's neck and shoulder. Ken's thighs were spread wide to make room for Brad to recline against him, and his calves and feet wrapped around Brad's lower body. He could feel Ken's warm soft dick against his lower back.

He couldn't tell where they were. He assumed they were dead, and that they were in some sort of transitionary stage to wherever it was they went after. To Brad it was enough like Heaven to just be here in Ken's arms, feeling their bodies against one another, neither one of them in pain and their bodies whole and healthy. Yeah, I could spend eternity like this.

Brad put his hands over Ken's and squeezed them. He felt Ken's arms tighten around him and his chin lifted up a little.

Ken's voice sounded relaxed and sleepy, and his deep voice whispered in Brad's ear, "About time you woke up, fucker. I thought you were gonna sleep forever." Ken rubbed his cheek against Brad's in the way he knew drove Brad crazy. He moved one arm up and cupped Brad's cheek bringing his face around so they could bring their lips together in a tender kiss. Smiling, Ken kissed him like that a few more times and then pulled back slightly so they could stare into each other's eyes. Brad could not only see the love there for him, but he felt it inside of him.

He drew his face back a little in surprise.

"Yeah buddy, I can feel it too. I always knew you were one hot fucker on the outside, but the inside is a thousand times better."

"Ken? What's happening? Where are we?"

"You tell me bro. I'm pretty sure you're the one that brought us here."

"I'm not sure where here is... That song that Lane was singing... I think it was some kind of key. Somehow I was able to get to your body, and I knew you were dying. All I wanted was to die with you, but the music was holding me back. And now we're here."

Ken eased his grip around Brad, pulling his arms back and he stood up. Reaching down, he pulled Brad to his feet. There seemed to be a floor, and they could see each other clearly, but everything else around them was blackness.

Brad's forehead wrinkled in concentration as he looked around and he said "I remember this place. I had a dream, or I thought it was a dream. I saw you on that table, beaten and broken. I couldn't reach you at first. There was some sort of wall that kept us apart."

Ken's eyes widened in surprise and he said, "Oh shit! I remember that! I mean I didn't until just now. I was at the end of my rope and you told me to hang on; that you knew where I was or how to find me. It gave me enough hope to keep going."

There was a short pause and then he said, "But ya know B, I think by hanging on it only made things worse."

Brad felt the truth of that and it cut him like a knife. Ken could palpably see and feel the hurt Brad felt from his words and felt like a jerk.

Brad spun around to face Ken and asked, "What was I supposed to do? Let you die?!"

"It was selfish man. But you and I both know I would have done the same thing. We can't lie to each other about it. Not here; in this place."

Brad paused as Ken's statement sunk in.

"What do you mean?"

"Because I can't lie to myself, and believe me B, I tried. I lie to myself all the time in little ways; hell everybody does. I think it's a part of being human. But something about this place rejects that, or doesn't permit it. I'm not sure which."

"How did you figure that out?"

"Because while that creature was flaying my mind away a piece at a time, and the pain was more than I could take and I wanted so badly to just die and put an end to it all, I tried to blame you. I tried to blame you for everything B. For making me hang on beyond my strength, and creating this impossible situation because you were too selfish, or to weak, to let me go."

Brad felt cold fear creeping up his spine as Ken spoke. It was overpowering, and his chest got so tight he could barely breathe. He fell to his knees, his shoulders slumped and shaking with quiet sobs.

Ken moved over and sat down beside Brad, pulling his knees up to his chest. He rested his chin on one of his big forearms and his other hand reached out to gently grip Brad's shoulder.

"Do you want to hit me, B? I know I sure would. I'm not trying to be a bastard, man. This place is harsh, but it's also kind of beautiful."

Ken had been awake in this place longer than Brad. He wasn't sure how time moved here, but he seemed to have been here hours before Brad woke up. Ken's senses were much more powerful than a normal human, but in this place it was like they were on steroids. He felt Brad's emotional pain so harshly that he could see it. When he looked hard, and sifted through all the emotions running wild in his best friend, he saw anger right there with everything else.

"I know you are pissed at me bro, I can see it."

It took Brad a few minutes to get himself under control.

"So tell me B, what are you so mad about?"

"What am I mad about!?" As soon Brad allowed his anger to surface, it quickly boiled over; it had been building for over a month. He stood up quickly and faced Ken.

"You stupid shit! What am I mad about!? Because all of this is your fuckin fault that's why! You are the one who had to switch jobs with Kevin that night. You are the one who was lazy and let his guard down and got himself captured! And then, you sit here and tell me this is all my fault! God! You are so fuckin conceited I can't even begin to tell you how pissed that makes me! I love you more than anything you fuck head, even my own life, and I was willing to sacrifice myself to save your sorry ass, and then you turn this around and say it's my fault!?" Brad was yelling so hard, spit was flying from his mouth. His face and upper body were flushed, and the veins were sticking out on his neck, across his chest, his shoulders, and his arms.

Ken just stared at him, his eyes taking in Brad's beautiful naked form. "God B, you are one sexy fucker when you get fired up."

Brad stopped abruptly, surprised by the sudden shift in the argument. His anger came back quickly and he continued, "You always do that! When things get too hot for you, you always crack a joke and try to change the subject! You..."

Ken held up his hands in surrender and he started to chuckle, "Damn bro, chill out for a minute."

Brad was breathing hard and he was starting to sweat from the tension, anger, and all the other emotions there were running wild in him. He had a bad temper, and he usually kept it in check, rarely letting it loose. When he let it go, he always had a hard time putting a lid back on it.

"And to think that just a few minutes ago I was sittin there in your arms thinkin I could spend eternity with you?! What the fuck was I thinking! I'm an idiot! I want to spend eternity with a total dick! How fuckin idiotic is that?!"

Ken couldn't hold it in anymore and doubled over laughing. Brad just glared at him.

"Oh man B, if you could see your face bud!"

It took Ken a few minutes to stop laughing. Tears were running down his face from laughing so hard. He finally got himself under control, and he moved over behind Brad and put his hands on his shoulders and started massaging them.

"Oh man, B. I'm not laughin at you bro, I'm laughin at us. You know I love you more than anythin in the world, even my own life. How couldn't I, after what you did for me?" He turned Brad around by the shoulders to face him.

Brad couldn't help himself, even as pissed as he was; when Ken started rubbing his shoulders he got hard as a rock. Ken turned him around and he felt Ken's hard on poking him. Ken whispered in his ear, "Come here B", as Ken pulled him into that tight, full bodied hug that they both loved, they started kissing. Their eyes flashed white. They lost track of how long they stayed like that. They were breathing hard, and slowly grinding into each other, their dicks slick with precum. At some point Ken lowered them both to the ground. Their bodies were still pressed together, their arms wrapped around each other, holding tight. They continued to grind themselves against one another until they both came. The orgasm was hard, almost painful. All the pent up emotion of the last month, everything leading up to this point in time, seemed to shoot out of them, leaving them both feeling content and peaceful.

Ken was on top, loving the feel of Brad's warm breath on his neck. He lifted his head up and looked into Brad's eyes and said with a cocky grin on his face, "Now are you sure you wouldn't want to spend eternity with this dick?"

Brad couldn't help but smile. Ken was too cute when he had that look on his face. Brad replied with, "You are such a fuckin douche", and let loose with a heartfelt laugh, and hugged his lover tighter against him.

After a short time of just holding each other, Brad said, "Well it looks like I might not have a choice, unless we can figure out where we are and how to get out of here."

Ken let himself slide over and he propped his head up on one hand. Brad did the same, so they could face one another. Both of them loved to get in this position after making out, so they could continue to touch each other, and talk about whatever came to mind. It was always a very intimate time emotionally, to go with the physical intimacy they shared moments before.

They were both quiet for a few minutes, their hands roaming over each other's bodies, caressing each other tenderly.

Ken finally broke the silence, "About that."

Brad chuckled and said, "You shit. I knew you were holding out on me."

"Well, B, I'm really not sure, but I think I figured something out about us, and it might help us get out of here, or at least explain some things."

"Well I'm not goin anywhere, so you better start talkin, or I'm gonna take matters into my own hands." Brad reached down and started fondling Ken's dick playfully when he said that.

"Have you ever wondered how the doc knows so much? How he knows so much more than anyone else on the planet about genetics, and computers, and almost every other field of science out there?"

"I think we all have at one time or another."

"Well he said something today that doesn't make any sense. When I told him about what I had planned, he told me he couldn't be with us tonight. When I questioned him about it he said he wasn't permitted to be there."

Brad's eyebrows rose in surprise and he said, "Holy shit!"

"Yeah, as far as any of us know he doesn't work for anyone. So there's obviously more to him than meets the eye; I mean even more than we thought. That and a lot of other things clicked into place in my brain as I was dying. I had an epiphany."

"Whoa big fella, don't use words you don't understand."

"Shut the fuck up and listen, you douche. I'm about to enlighten your sorry ass."

"So anyways, as I was sayin... you know the symbol that the doc used for the Project? The Vitruvian Man drawing by da Vinci? It's also called the Proportions of Man. It represents the three parts of man that make him whole; the Body, Mind, and Spirit."

"I could be crazy, but I think the doc fashioned the Project with da Vinci's idea as the driving concept. When he enhanced us, I think it was for a higher purpose, and he hasn't gotten around to telling us what that is just yet. I think he somehow linked our Souls together, knowing that we would love one another."

"How could he have possibly done that?"

"I don't know man; I'm still thinkin this through. It just all makes sense. I know I'm physically stronger than you, but you are so much stronger than I am in every other way. You are smarter for sure, and more compassionate, and you are much more emotionally mature than I am. And take that creature... as strong as I am that fucker kicked my ass like I was a baby, and you kept it trapped for weeks. You even created that place to trap it in."

"I don't like what you're sayin Ken. You are physically stronger than me, yes, but don't make me out to be more than I am. You make me a better person. I wantto be a better person because of you. You deserve as much credit for those characteristics in me as I do."

"Ok, B, maybe that's true, or maybe not. But don't you see buddy, I still think it's all by design. We complement each other like two sides of a coin. And we're bound together because we share our Spirit."

"Alright. I'm not saying I agree with you, but I can see where you are going with this."

"Well, for one thing I don't think we are dead. I think you brought us here, wherever here is, maybe somewhere in your mind. I think time is moving very slowly because all of this is in our heads. It's like we're in a dream inside the dream world where the creature was. I think our bodies are dying in the back yard."

"The problem is I'm not sure what will happen if we do get out of here. My mind was shredded by that creature, and you, you dumbshit, probably don't have much of a noodle left either after you tried to help save me... again! I think what you and I are, here in this place, are our souls. When our bodies finally do stop breathing, I'm not sure what will happen to us here. I think though, that if we are gonna have any chance of gettin out of here, it lies with you, B."

Brad had to laugh a little at that and said, "Yeah, no pressure though."

Ken stopped talking, giving Brad some time to think. They were both quiet for a long while. Ken was calm, almost serene, having every confidence in his lover. Brad got up and started pacing, and Ken let him have his space, but he could tell that after a while Brad was getting frustrated.

Ken motioned for Brad to come over to him, "Hey B, come here."

"We don't have time to cuddle man. I need to figure this shit out."

"B shut yer trap and get your ass over here."

Brad moved over and stood looking down at Ken.

"Turn around and sit down," Ken patted the space between his thighs.

Brad sat down with a heavy sigh of impatience.

"What you need, Mister Wilson is to relax. That's one thing I learned in sniper school back in the day. You need to relax, so you can focus on your mission." Ken started rubbing Brad's shoulders and upper back. It took a minute but Brad finally leaned his head forward and let Ken's big warm, strong hands work their magic. Brad had a thought that made him laugh, "You know, for someone who doesn't have a body you sure give a good backrub."

"Yeah, B, well for someone who doesn't have a body, you sure have nice big hard muscles that I can't keep my hands off of."

Ken knew Brad was hard. He expanded the range of his hands and wrapped them around the solid core of Brad's abs and torso and started rubbing his hands through the hair on Brad's chest and accross his nipples. Ken kept it up, knowing from all their years together how far he could go before he pushed his lover over the edge.

Ken moved one hand down and cupped Brad's balls, and rolled them in his fingers for a minute before moving up to grab his solid throbbing shaft. When he did that, Brad moaned and leaned back. He kept his hands down on the floor with his arms and chest flexed from holding himself up. With his right hand, Ken started jacking Brad with long, firm, steady strokes, twisting his grip slightly when he got to the head. With his other hand he palmed Brad's right pec with his fingers spread out so his middle finger could rub over his nipple. Brad loved this position, being wrapped up by his lover. He always felt safe and protected when Ken had his big powerful arms wrapped around him. Ken kept stroking, steady and relentless. Brad was starting to sweat, giving Ken a good indication of how close he was to shooting.

Ken leaned his face down so Brad could feel his hot breath on the back of his neck and said, "Dude you are so fucking hot. I love it when you get all sweaty for me. Don't hold back, B. I want to feel your dick shooting in my hand. Work it up man." Ken kept whispering loving, encouraging words in Brad's ear, knowing that would excite him and push him over the edge.

Brad started moving his hips, pushing his slicked up dick in and out Ken's hand. Ken started rubbing his finger harder over Brad's nipple and squeezing and rubbing his pec. In less than a minute, Ken felt Brad's shaft get even harder, and he started squirting cum all over his abs and Ken's arm that was wrapped around him. He arched his back, pushing his dick out as far as he could as he shot. He shot a good six or seven volleys, his whole body taut in pleasure. When he finished he lay back against Ken, breathing heavily, and relaxed.

"Fuck yeah bro that was hot as hell." Ken moved his hands back up to Brad's upper chest and shoulders, gently rubbing and stroking, and occasionally circling his nipples. He let Brad ride out the pleasure as long as he wanted to, wanting him to relax.

Brad lay in Ken's arms, the place he never wanted to leave. He felt Ken's hard chest against his back and the feel of his big strong hands rubbing his chest and shoulders. Brad lay there in the afterglow of his orgasm totally relaxed.

He knew what Ken did and why; aside from the pleasure, it achieved his goal because Brad was more at ease now. He starting going over everything in his mind that he could remember. Everything that they said, everything they did... Body, Mind, and Spirit. Ken was the Body, Brad was the Mind, and they shared the same Spirit. If I'm the Mind, I need to stop thinking in physical terms.

The words from Lane's song came back to his mind... Open your heart and hands my son...

Brad closed his hand into a fist and held it up in front of his face. He took a deep breath, and as he exhaled he slowly opened his hand, and envisioned his mind and heart opening with it, like a flower in bloom. He felt a slight sensation of falling outside of himself. Son of a bitch! I can feel it!

He could feel himself opening up and expanding outside of his body. He stopped to let himself get acclimated for a minute. He could still sense Ken, and if he concentrated he could feel their skin touching.

He had to concentrate to move his body, but he was quickly getting the hang of it. He reached for Ken's hands, and felt their fingers intertwine. He pulled Ken's arms down so they were wrapped around his waist and he squeezed his hands over Ken's.

The paradox of this entire place being some kind of mental or spiritual construct, and yet he and Ken having bodies here, was not lost on Brad. He had to assume that his mind was translating their interaction into terms that they could both grasp and understand.

Ok, here goes nothing.

The part of Brad that was outside of himself dove down through his own body and into Ken. It was the strangest sensation, like swimming in thick air. He not only felt Ken's surprise, he felt it like it was his own.

Brad?

Yeah man... this is amazing!

What the hell did you do?

I'm inside you man! Hold on to your hat. I know what I want to do but I'm not sure how to do it. I don't know how this will feel.

Brad brought them together. This was new to him and he was acting on instinct; the merging was not gentle. It was more like a head on collision at 60MPH. It wasn't painful, just startling and highly uncomfortable emotionally. Neither one of them was prepared for it; the honesty between them, or lack of deception, was overwhelming and frightening.

From birth humans are deceitful; they learn to lie to get what they want. Children manipulate their parents; kids are cruel and lash out because they are insecure, and those habits become ingrained into them as adults. Even what appear to be good, honest men like Ken and Brad are full of self-deceptions, petty jealousies, and lies. Now all those buffers, the lies and self-protection mechanisms, were stripped away, and they were truly naked with each other for the first time in their lives.

It was brutal. The awareness both men had of each other caused a flood of emotions; fear, resentment, embarrassment, anxiety, and shame. They were so immersed in each other they could barely form coherent thoughts. Brad was shocked at how insecure Ken was about some things in their relationship. He could see all the things that Ken wanted to say to him but never found the courage, all the things he wanted to try in bed but was afraid to ask; how afraid Ken was the first time they made love. Ken was discovering all the same types of things about Brad. Ken was just as shocked by the fact that Brad always felt inferior to him and deep down felt like he didn't deserve Ken's love.

The reality of these discoveries was traumatic; causing them both sorrow and grief. But at the same time, the underlying love they felt for one other was like a huge cushion that softened the harshness. They thought they were in love, and they were, but only as much as they were able to love one another in their bodies with their minds and hearts closed off from one another.

With everything about each other laid bare, they realized that to a certain extent they were total strangers. They began to connect with each other on a level they could never have imagined before, delighting in all the discoveries and realizations about each other. They found themselves both forgiving and asking for forgiveness for trespasses and transgressions neither realized they had ever made. They apologized for all the hurt they had ever caused one another, and any inconsiderate actions, usually made unaware but sometimes made out of jealousy or in anger.

The longer they were together, and the deeper they went into each other, the more their love built. The connection they were feeling now was far beyond anything they ever felt in their lives.

All of this happened literally at the speed of thought. What seemed to them hours or even days happened in the blink of an eye.

With no secrets between them, Ken knew what Brad now planned to try and do. It would never have been possible without the connection they now shared and the knowledge they gleaned and put together from the doctors intent.

Brad had to force them apart. As painful as the connection was at first, the thought of being apart was now even more painful.

They both opened their eyes at the same time. They were still lying down together, with Brad reclining against Ken's body, holding hands. They both had tears in their eyes.

They were silent for a second and then they both blurted out a "Fuck me!" at the same time, which caused them both to laugh. Ken's arms tightened around him.

"Oh my god, Brad, you are so fuckin beautiful man. I always thought you were amazing on the outside, but damn bro, what the hell did I ever do to deserve such an amazing man in my life."

"We deserve each other Ken, and now you know, beyond any doubt, that I feel the same way about you. There can't be anymore secrets between us ever again after this. Assuming we live, we can be together like that as often and as long as we want."

Ken laughed and said, "I'm getting a mental hard on, just thinking about that."

"Well technically, everything up to now has been mental, which leads us to the next part of getting out of here."

"Yeah. I understand what you're gonna try. I hope it works bro. I can't imagine us comin this far along and then crappin out at the last second."

"I'm still not sure what I'm gonna do. I'll have to improvise when I get back to the River. All these different levels are confusing. Whatever we are here, I'm pretty sure our minds are at the next level up, where you fought the creature, and our bodies are still in the backyard with the guys. Who knows how much time has passed since all this started."

Brad wasn't sure if his plan would work. He was certain there was still some kind of connection with the part of him that was with Ken on the beach. He took a deep breath, leaned back against Ken to relax, and imagined his mind and heart opening like a fist. He rose up and out of his body and hovered there for a few moments so see if he could sense anything.

He focused on getting back to the beach. If he was going to have any chance of saving Ken, he had to get back there. He could see the beach and the night sky in his Mind's Eye, and he imagined he could feel the heat from the bonfire and hear the cracks and pops of the burning wood.

Ken felt Brad's body go slack. He lay there for a few minutes, just enjoying the feeling of being together. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, and suddenly he didn't feel Brad anymore. He opened his eyes and Brad was gone. He hoped that was a good sign. He looked up into the darkness and said, "Good luck B. If anyone can do this it's you buddy. " Ken sat down and crossed his legs to wait, already missing the other half of his Soul.

Brad had no idea if he was even moving. He had no sense of physical motion, but he did feel a connection to his body and could feel it getting stronger. Suddenly he was back on the beach with their bodies.

He could sense the hurt and brokenness in both of them; it was palpable to his senses.

He dove down into his body, and had to fight briefly to maintain control and keep from merging back where this part of him belonged. Brad knew he wasn't as bad off as Ken, but he was still pretty bad. The creature had done quite a job on both of them.

Alright, I got here by visualizing where I wanted to be. Maybe that will work to fix what's wrong too. He spent a few minutes looking and studying the damage, so he could create a visual image to work with.

Satisfied that he had at least a basic understanding of what he needed to do, Brad started knitting the tatters of his mind back together, starting with the less damaged areas first. It seemed to be working, but it was slow and difficult. He still wasn't sure how time worked in this place; he just kept at it, seemingly for hours. He had to stop periodically, to rest and refocus his efforts. If he had been in his body his chest would be heaving with effort, and he would be drenched in sweat. Finally there was nothing left to fix and exhausted, he let himself merge back into the body before him.

His perceptions changed immediately. Even though he knew this place was a mental construct, it seemed to operate as though it was a physical place. He felt his body again, partially lying on top of Ken. He opened his eyes, rolled off Ken, and sat up. He looked down at Ken's face. His eyes were open and staring at nothing and his face was totally slack and void of expression.

Healing himself had taken its toll on him and he was exhausted, and he realized the worst part was yet to come. It took quite an effort because of how tired he was and how heavy Ken's body was, but Brad managed to lift Ken's head and shoulders so they were in his lap. He just sat there for a few minutes staring at Ken's face, gently caressing his forehead and pushing his hair back lovingly, drawing strength from touching his lover.

He already missed the newfound bond he and Ken had shared. Brad felt like half of him was missing.

"Well buddy, let's get this show on the road." With those words Brad put his hands on either side of Ken's head, holding him firmly. He took a deep breath, focused, and gently merged his mind into Kens.

He immediately recoiled in horror and bounced back in to himself. He never imagined it could be so bad... Oh Fuck, Ken! How could it be so much worse? The damage wasn't anything like what he had healed in his own mind.

Fear took ahold of him; fear that there was no way he could fix the devastation he just witnessed. He started to cry, holding Ken's head in his lap and rocking slowly, his tears falling on Ken's forehead. The only thing he could think of is that he should have taken more. If he had only taken more... but then they would both be gone. Which might have been better after all. Fuck! How is this possible!?

Brad steeled himself, and plunged back into the desolation of what remained of Ken's mind.

The connections in Ken's brain were so shattered and disconnected it was like finding ten thousand needles in a thousand haystacks. He was having to hunt and sift through every shred, and hold onto it when he found a match, and keep looking until he found another piece, until there was enough to fix. Brad was about to pass out from the effort and he had barely scratched the surface.

As the song came to an end, the backyard fell silent again.

Kevin broke the silence and asked, "Now what?"

Lane replied,"Now we wait. Whatever we did helped, I just hope it was enough."

Bill checked both Brad and Ken, "They are breathing again, and their pulses are weak but steady. Let's give them some time. If they get worse we'll call the doc."

About five minutes went by and Bill felt Brad's pulse start racing.

"Guys, something's happening."

Brad broke out into a heavy sweat and started breathing in harsh, rasping gasps, like he was exerting himself. His face was flushed, and the veins in his forehead, temples, and neck were standing out and tears started flowing down his cheeks.

Ken's pulse was getting weaker and he was barely breathing.

Brad was getting desperate. He was so exhausted he was barely making any progress, and he had a sense of urgency like he was running out of time.

He had to stop and rest again.

Ok, Brad. This isn't working. Think, you dumbass! Think!

Something was digging at the back of his mind but whatever it was seemed to be eluding him. His thoughts were racing out of control and his desperation was causing him to panic. Just a little while ago, Ken had helped him to relax. Ken forced him to stop and slow down, and even jacked him off, to get him to relax.

Ken always seems to know what's best for me.

Brad starting using that thought as a mantra, repeating it over and over, using it as his focus to slow down and relax. As soon as his mind slowed and he started feeling calmer, he heard it; the haunting, beautiful song that Lane sang, the one from his dream. The one he wrote while he was at the River! Fuck! Lane has been to this place! Lane can help!

After a short rest, and encouraged by thought of help, he focused and tried to make contact with Lane. He visualized Lane in the backyard with everyone. He formed the picture, holding it firmly in his Mind's Eye and mentally shouted as loud as he could.

Lane and Bill were both huddled down on either side of Ken and Brad. After finishing his song Lane set down his guitar down and moved over so he could be close. He was holding one of Brad's hands and his other hand was on Brad's chest feeling his heartbeat. Bryan was by his side and holding onto Lane by his shoulders.

Out of the blue, Lane heard Brad's voice shout in his mind. Lane! Lane's head snapped up in surprise and he would have fallen back if Bryan wasn't holding onto him. Lane's eyes were wide open with surprise, and everyone looking saw his green eyes turn white.

Brad!?

Lane! Thank God you can hear me. Oh fuck bro; I need your help man. I can't do this by myself.

You and Ken are both lookin real bad bro. We can tell somethins happenin but we don't know what to do. How the fuck are we talkin in our heads?

Lane I don't have a lot of time to explain. This might hurt a bit and I'm really sorry but...

Lane grabbed his head and let out a gasp of pain as Brad literally shoved the information into Lane's mind to show him how to help. It felt like a white hot spear and he was totally unprepared for it.

Brad felt the pain he caused his friend, and deeply regretted it. Brad was trying to keep his communication with Lane as much on the surface level as possible. He didn't want to merge with Lane like he and Ken had done. That would be too much too soon.

As Lane's mind assimilated the information Brad gave him, the understanding hit him about the Project. Lane let out a mental, Oh shit! , in realization of what Ken and Brad figured out about the doc and what he had done to them.

Damn, man that hurt like a son of a bitch!

I know and I'm sorry. This is all new to me too and I'm learning as I go. Do you think you can help? Please bro, I don't think Ken has much time.

Not only yes, but hell yes. You know you don't have to ask you dumbfuck. Gimme a sec, I need to talk to these ladies before they pee in their pants.

Lane was so focused on talking with Brad that he didn't hear Bryan shouting at him.

"Lane! Talk to me! What's wrong?" Bryan was gently shaking Lane trying to get him to respond.

"I'm fine, Bry. Help me up." Bryan stood up and brought Lane up with him.

"Guy's we don't have much time. I know it's weird but Brad is talkin to me in my head, and he needs our help. Ken's in bad shape and Brad's not much better. Bill, Darren, and Loy come over here. Bry, Kev, Ricky, and Pat - if they stop breathing again do whatever you need to do to keep them alive and give us as much time as you can."

Turning back to Bill, Darren, and Loy, he continued "Guys we should all probably sit down for this. I don't want you knuckleheads falling down like sissies and breakin your skulls open. Everybody face me and join hands."

Their military training kicked in and everyone followed Lane's commands. The act of following orders gave them something to focus on that was normal in the middle of the chaos and uncertainty this night was bringing.

Brad?

Yeah, I'm here.

I'm bringing company, buddy. Hold tight!

Lane didn't have time to be gentle either, and he pretty much yanked Bill, Darren, and Loy out of their bodies. He figured they were wired for this, just as he and Brad were. He didn't want to give them time to overthink the situation, so he figured he'd let their instincts kick in. The doc told him to have faith in himself and go with his gut so...

Lane grinned and couldn't help but think to himself, Fuck yeah! I can get used to this shit.

Bill, Darren, and Loy all felt like they just got hit with a two by four on the back of their head. It hit them fast and hard, as they felt themselves being jerked out of their bodies.

Alright guys take a breath and settle down.

They were standing on a beach, under a clear night sky, beside a huge roaring bonfire. Brad was crouched over Ken, holding his head in his lap seemingly unaware of them. Ken's bare chest was covered in blood.

Alright Brad, I'm here with Bill, Dar, and Loy. We're with you and Ken on the beach. Guys I know this is all new and sudden but you're gonna have to learn how to do this on the fly if Ken has a chance of makin it out of this. Ken's mind has been shredded and Brad's tryin to piece it back together before their bodies give out. All this Professor X bullshit is takin its toll and we need to give Brad whatever he needs to finish the job.

Shit bro you brought the cavalry. Thanks guys. I don't know if this is going to hurt or not. I'm not even sure it won't kill some of us. If anyone wants to back out, now's your chance and no hard feelings if you do.

Through the mental link they could all feel the raw emotions behind Brad's thoughts; his desperation for Ken, his gratitude that they were here, and his sincerity about giving them a chance to back out.

Brad could hear their voices loud and clear in his mind, solid and supportive.

Loy thought, I'm in.

Bill thought, Take whatever you need man.

Darren thought, No way these pussies are gonna out do me bro. You know I'm all in.

Lane moved behind Brad and put his hands on Brad's head. He wasn't sure if that really mattered but it sure couldn't hurt.

Guys, get behind me and put your hands on my shoulders.

Bill thought; Take your shirt off Lane. The doc is always talking about the importance of skin contact. Your hands are touching Brad and his are touching Ken. It might not matter but why take a chance.

Lane quickly stripped off his t-shirt and grinned. I'm sure you just want to cop a feel bro but whatever.

Even with the seriousness of the situation, Lane always had the ability to lighten the mood. Brad could feel the camaraderie between them all and loved them for it.

Lane felt their warm hands on his back and he put his hands back on Brad's head.

Alright guys, I'll be the conduit. I'm gonna channel all of us together and Brad you just pull what you need bro.

Brad reached out and felt them immediately. To his Mind's Eye they were all bright white lights, standing with him, feeding him their light and warmth and strength. He was unprepared for the flood of energy that hit him and it almost overwhelmed him.

He heard Lane's thought, Sorry bro! I'll dial it back a little.

No! It just was more than I expected. You guys are badass! I'll need it all before we're finished.

With that he dove back into Ken. He was able to move much faster now, but there was just so much damage. At about the halfway point the guys started to falter. They were all breathing hard and sweat was pouring off them.

Guys how are you doing?

Brad could hear the mental equivalent of them gritting their teeth but they all said they were fine.

Lane, can you manage to talk to Bryan and see how Ken is doing topside?

Lane was silent for a few minutes and when his voice came back Brad could feel and hear the worry in his voice.

They just started CPR on both you and Ken. Your hearts have stopped. Kevin is calling the doc.

Fuck! Ok guys don't panic just yet. There's a big time differential so we're still ok for a bit. I know you're all getting tired but if we can hold out just a little longer.

Brad felt the surge, but he had no idea how long they could keep it up. Brad was working as quickly as he could; he was getting better at finding and repairing connections. There was less damage now, and he was also learning how Ken's mind worked and he was starting to see patterns where Ken's subconscious tried to protect itself and minimize the damage. Brad had a feeling in the back of his mind that something was wrong, even with all that he and the others have done so far, but he didn't have any idea what to do about it, so he just moved forward as best he could, hoping and praying it would be enough.

Brad realized that he wasn't going to finish in time, so he worked on making as many of the basic connections as he could find and left them incomplete. At least if there was a connection there might be a chance of Ken's mind healing itself and building off those connections.

One by one he felt the guys drop out. Darren passed out first, then Loy, and then Bill. Lane was still with him, but he hardly had anything left to give. Brad was holding on by a thread.

Lane, I still need to get Ken back into his body. I have to save what strength I have left for that, or all this won't mean anything.

What do you mean you need to get him? Where the fuck is he?

It's too hard to explain now. We were together, somewhere, and I came back here to do this.

Can I help?

No Lane, you've done more than enough. You've all done more than Ken and I have a right to ask.

That's bullshit and you know it. Alright man, I'mma bounce. I think I'm gonna go sleep for a week!

See you topside.

Brad steeled himself and plunged back down to Ken. The blackness seemed colder and longer getting back, as if Ken was much further away.

As he appeared, Brad barely squeaked out a, "Hey man" before he started to collapse.

Ken moved fast enough to catch him before he hit the ground.

"Brad!"

Brad felt Ken's strong arms catch him, gently cradling him against his chest. He didn't have the strength to form words, so he merged with Ken.

Ken saw and felt everything that Brad and the others had done up until now. He was stunned at how much danger they put themselves in for him. He was angry at Brad for asking them, and allowing them to do what they did, but at the same time he realized their love and intent, which turned his anger into acceptance, and even pride at their efforts. He was humbled by what they were willing to sacrifice for his sake.

So what now, B?

Ken I'm not sure if what we did was enough. I tried so hard man, we all did, but it was so much worse that I imagined.

Ken wrapped his presence around Brad in the equivalent of a tight mental hug. I know you all did your best man. How could I ever ask for more than you've already done?

Being with Ken even this short time was making him feel better, but he was still near the end of his endurance.

B, you gotta promise me, if we make it back and it didn't work... well I don't wanna live broken. Promise me you won't try to keep me around if I'm too far gone.

It tore Brad's heart out, but Ken felt his promise and knew he was telling the truth.

First things first. We need to make it back to the beach first. And then I need to get us back to our bodies. Let's go.

Brad was expecting it to be hard, but it wasn't. He never felt any strain. It took longer than he expected and just before he panicked and thought they would be lost in the darkness between that place and the River forever they arrived back on the beach.

Brad gently pushed Ken down into his body, and then went back into his own.

He opened his eyes and looked down at Ken's face. He felt Ken go back into himself, but he didn't wake up. His eyes were closed and his face lost that vacant expression. Now he looked like he was sleeping normally. Fuck I hope it was enough Ken. You have to be alright.

"Alright, bro. Step one completed. I don't know what to expect when we get back to our bodies. No matter what, I love you." He leaned over and kissed Ken's forehead, putting all his love into the gesture.

Closing his eyes, Brad gathered the last of his strength and willed them both out of this place and into their physical bodies in the back yard. The river was a construct in Brad's Mind, a place he needed to hold the creature prisoner. Now that it was no longer needed it shattered into non-existence as he and Ken left it for the final time.

Bryan and Rick were monitoring Ken, and Kevin and Patrick were monitoring Brad, keeping tabs on their vital signs. All of them kept making nervous glances over to their partners, to make sure they were ok.

Bryan's deep voice was tense as he said, "Ricky! He stopped breathin!" They immediately started CPR, with Bryan blowing air into Ken's mouth, while Rick put his hands together and started pumping Ken's chest to try and keep his heart beating.

Seconds later Brad stopped breathing and Kevin and Patrick started doing the same to Brad. Rick put his phone down and hit the doctor's number on speed dial and put it on speaker. The call went straight to voice mail. Rick hit the pound key to bypass the doctor's greeting message and yelled towards the phone, "Doc! We have multiple 911's here! We need you now!"

Rick kept shifting his eyes over to Lane and the others, watching for some sign of what was happening. He had no way to signal them and let them know what was happening with Ken and Brad.

It wasn't long before they noticed that Lane and the others were breathing hard and showing the strain of whatever it was they were doing. They were all sweating heavily. After a minute Darren fell over unconscious, followed by Loy, and then Bill, and finally Lane.

When Patrick saw Darren collapse he gave a frustrated, "FUCK!", and rushed over to check on him, but it was quickly apparent that Darren and the others were ok and breathing normally.

He quickly said, "I think they just passed out. They seem fine, just exhausted." He leaped back over and resumed performing CPR on Brad.

Kevin was about ready to call it when Brad's eyes popped open. His body jerked upright and he inhaled deeply. He looked around briefly with a confused look on his face, and promptly passed out.

A split second later, Ken's body gave a small jerk and then went still, but he seemed to be breathing again.

Darren's phone dinged and he looked down to see a text message from the doctor. "The doc says get everybody to the Lab a.s.a.p."

It took a few trips to get everyone loaded into their Explorers without the neighbors seeing anything, and then they took off for the lab. The doctor was waiting for them at the door, looking more serious than usual, and agitated. Kevin, Bryan, Rick, and Patrick got everyone inside and into a bed, and started helping the doctor get everyone hooked up to the monitors.

Bryan seemed to have the best grasp of what was going on, and didn't seem overly concerned. Kevin noticed and asked him about it and he replied, "It's hard to describe Kev, but I just know Lane is ok. We've been using that trick that Ken and Brad discovered, and ever since that first night we've been more in tune with one another than ever before. And then Lane started having these dreams, which was all a part of this. I'm not sure what's happenin to us, and I know it looks like a disaster tonight, but I can't help feelin that everything is fine. I just wish the doc would tell us more."

Kevin looked thoughtful, but didn't reply.

Not long after, the doctor came in and told them, "William, Loy, Darren, and Lane are all stable. They are simply exhausted. None of them are used to exerting themselves in this new manner. The Mind can be thought of as a muscle, and they will need to exercise their new abilities over time to get stronger. What they did was remarkable. You should all be very proud of them."

Bryan asked,"What about Brad and Ken?"

"I am still not sure. I believe Bradford will be fine, but we will have to wait until Kenneth wakes up to assess his condition. We will simply have to wait and see."

Much later that night, Dr. Thomas stood between the two beds where Brad and Ken lay. He gave a heavy sigh and lowered his head in a brief prayer for both his young charges. How could events have gotten so out of control so quickly? The timing of Ken's abduction just as he and Brad experienced one of their first Awakenings... he felt another hand at play in these events, but whose?

Ken had no outward sign of any injuries, but the Doctor wasn't sure about what state his mind would be in when he woke up. The temptation to find out himself was almost unbearable, but after all this time he had not broken his promise, and for the sake of the other young men in his care, he could not now.

Brad and the others were heroic in their efforts to save Ken, at great risk to themselves. All of them would recover with rest, but the doctor had an uneasy feeling about Ken.

As he went back to his office it dawned on him how quiet it was. Looking around, he noticed that Bryan, Richard, Patrick, and Kevin were all fast asleep. He thought that odd, but with the stress of the evening they were probably just exhausted. The only sounds in the Lab were occasional small chirps and beeps from the equipment.

The doctor was monitoring Ken's brain activity from his office when there was a sudden huge spike in activity. He rushed in to Ken's room but there was no outward sign of what he just witnessed on the monitors. Brad and Ken were fast asleep. He turned on the small reading lamp on the nightstand beside Ken's bed so he could see better. He was reaching for Ken's hand to check his pulse, when he noticed a rolled up piece of parchment sitting on the nightstand with a wax seal on it.

His heart almost stopped when he saw the seal. With trembling hands he picked it up and looked more closely... yes! He hadn't seen that symbol in nearly a century, but he would recognize it anywhere; two quills crossed, each with a drop of ink on its tip.

He looked around the lab, almost frantically, for some sign of the man he knew left the note.

Disappointing, but not unexpected. He let out a deep sigh and went back to his office.

When he got back to his desk, his hands shaking with nerves, he broke the seal and unrolled the parchment. It was written in a handsome flowing script, in an alphabet few in the world could now read.

Aaron, my beloved,

How I yearn to see you again after all the long years that have separated us. I begged to be the one to bring this message so I could at least be near you, even for the briefest of seconds.

It seems that you are doing well. I have had news of your mission and those higher in The Order are pleased. Pleased enough to want to right a grievous wrong, one that you are most likely unaware of. It seems that one of our brethren has betrayed The Order and gone over to the Enemy. He is the one ultimately responsible for the deception and kidnapping of Kenneth Habersham - he orchestrated the entire affair with a former colleague of yours, General Burgess.

I am sure you found it curious that two of your charges, and now possibly others, have had their first Awakening. This is no coincidence. The Nephelem have shown themselves recently, but we are unsure of what that means; their presence is causing ripples everywhere.

Because of the direct interference of the Enemy, we are allowed to act. I have been sent to restore Kenneth Habersham. As brave and heroic an effort as Bradford Wilson and the others made, their efforts were not enough. The damage to young Habersham's mind was not natural, and even with full training and at the height of their abilities it might not have been possible. Fortunately for us, the zeal of our Enemy was their undoing. Their transgression has allowed us an opening to right this wrong. With the Blessings of The Order, I have finished what Bradford Wilson and the others started.

In the morning Kenneth Habersham will awake healed and whole, and he can continue on his new path of discovering his Awakened Talents along with your other charges.

Aaron, after Reading Kenneth and the others, I believe we were right all along! The others must see it, even if they are too stubborn to admit it. These young men will be our salvation!

It is my fervent prayer that you and I will be united once again before too many more years come to pass. Until then, my beloved, I wish you well and safe journey and continued success on your mission.

With all my love,

Albrecht

Knowing that Albrecht had been here, but unable to communicate with him in person, was heartbreaking. He and Albrecht were paying a price from a transgression a long, long time ago. Even in the joy and relief of knowing that Ken would fully recover, in an extremely rare show of vulnerability, the doctor wept silently in the quiet of the lab, holding the scroll in his hands, trying to envision the face of the man who wrote it.

The doctor decided that he would not tell any of the men what happened yet. It might be some years before he brought it up. They needed time to recover, and to grow into themselves. He was so proud of all of them, each and every one. He found, over the last nineteen years, that if he gives them enough room, they grow better and stronger without being pushed.

It was late, so the doctor checked on his charges one more time, and then went to his own bed, to dream about Albrecht; the love of his life and the other half of his Soul.

Early the next morning, everyone except Ken was up and moving by 6am. No one was in the mood to do PT, so a few of the guys went out to get breakfast for everyone and brought it back to the lab. The doctor, not an early riser, didn't come out of his room until nearly 9:30am.

When he finally emerged from the room he slept in, he found nine impatient young men waiting for him. He shuffled over to get some coffee, which they politely left for him, and then sat down to work on his breakfast. He made a show of being deliberately slow, which was causing the men to fidget. He had a hard time not smiling at their impatience.

When he was done, he turned to them and said, "So I take it you are all feeling better?"

Everyone nodded their confirmation. "And you Bradford, are you sure you feel well?"

"Just a little tired, doc. But other than that I feel better than I have in over a month. With that thing out of me I feel as good as new. "

"I am so glad to hear that, however I wish to run some tests to be sure. We must be sure that your organs suffered no lasting damage."

Brad asked impatiently, "Doc, Ken's still asleep. Do you know if he is going to be ok yet?"

"Well, I have some good news and some bad news, as far as Kenneth is concerned. Which would you like to hear first?"

Brad was about to burst, and he needed to hear something good, so he blurted out, "Good first!"

"Well, my boy, the good news is that Kenneth is going to make a full recovery." He didn't get any further as Brad let out a"WHOOOP" and literally jumped into the air. Everyone else let out cries of 'alright!' and 'I knew it', and there were hugs and high fives all around. Every one of his friends felt the need to give Brad a big hug and a backslap at the good news. It took a minute for everyone to settle down and even then none of them could wipe the grins off their handsome faces.

Brad's eyes were bright, and the relief was clearly visible on his smiling face. "Ok, doc. Let's get the bad news out of the way."

"The bad news, my boy, is that you will have to contain yourself for a few more days. I had to induce a coma to give Kenneth's mind time to recover more quickly. I am assisting his recovery as much as I am safely able to do, but it will still take a few days. The mind is very complex and the damage was severe. But you all did an excellent job, and you should be extremely proud of yourselves."

The doctor hated to bend the truth, but the time wasn't right to reveal what really happened. He made his decision to induce a coma in Ken to help make the cover story more convincing.

Brad rushed over and literally picked the doctor up and gave him a big bear hug. Brad whispered in the doctor's ear, "Thank you so much, doc. I don't know what I would have done if I had lost him."

The doctor gave Brad one of his rare smiles and patted him on the back saying, "Me too, my boy, me too."

Everyone else let out another round of exuberant hoots and hollers, and everyone was smiling and a few even shed tears of happiness.

With the assurance that Ken was going to be ok, everyone but Brad left the lab. The only rule the doctor still kept in place was that no one was to go anywhere alone. They still had to travel in pairs to the security office, or shopping, or wherever. It would make life a little more difficult but everyone could cope with that.

The doctor used the last of the syringes on Brad, to ensure his body's full recovery. His organs did show signs of distress, but by the next morning, with the increased potency of the serum his body completely regenerated.

Brad stayed in the lab as before, with the doctor going home at night to his own house. Brad put two beds together so he could sleep beside Ken, and even though he knew Ken was going to be alright he hardly ever left his side. He would sit and hold Ken's hand while he watched TV, or while he slept.

The doctor didn't tell Brad that he scheduled the induced coma to stop the morning of the third day.

Brad felt like someone was looking at him and it woke him up. He opened his eyes, and Ken was on his side with his head propped up on one hand, his body stretched out on display for Brad.

Ken looked at him, smiled and said, "Hey handsome. What's a fella gotta do around here to get some food? I'm starving!"

Even knowing that Ken was going to be fine, when Brad saw him awake and talking, he was overwhelmed with emotions. He threw himself on top of Ken, wrapping his arms around him and pressing his face against his big warm chest him and started bawling like a baby. He was sobbing so hard his throat closed up and he couldn't talk. Ken started crying too, and he held Brad and let him cry, one hand cupping the back of his head and the other rubbing his back in comfort.

Brad finally managed to get out a, "Oh fuck, Ken, I love you so much man. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't made it."

"Shhhh B, its ok man. I love you too buddy! I'm right here and I'm not goin anywhere."Ken started laughing and he hugged Brad even tighter. "I was about to say more than you will ever know, but that's not true anymore is it?"

Brad pulled back so he could look into Ken's eyes. Ken was right; now that he was awake, they were both aware of the connection between them. All they had to do was concentrate a little and they could bring it up to the surface. Ken reached up and gently wiped the tears off of Brad's face with his thumbs.

Brad sniffed and said, "Shit, this is gonna take some getting used too. We won't even have to talk if we don't want too."

Brad put that thought into action, and spoke in his mind, Ok you hot fucker. I know you were posing for me when I woke up, and now it's time to pay the consequences.

Ken mentally laughed, You know me too well buddy. Guess I'm busted. If you know so much bro, you know what I need from you right now. I need to feel you inside of me, B. NOW. Get those clothes off fucker before I rip them off.

Brad lifted his t-shirt up and slowly off, causing his wide lats to flare. When he brought his arms down, his heavy chest settled back down into huge slabs of tight muscle. Brad unbuckled his jeans, kicked off his shoes, and pulled his pants off one leg at a time.

He could feel Ken's eyes on him, and feel the lust stirring as he got turned on by Brad's physique. Brad was as turned on by Ken as he ever had been. They both needed this; to feel each other physically as well as mentally and emotionally. Body, Mind, and Spirit.

Ken rolled over onto his stomach, knowing that when Brad topped him that was his favorite position. He loved to lay down on top of Ken's broad back so as much of his body could be in skin contact as possible. And Ken loved to feel Brad's hard furry chest and abs pressing down against him.

Ken had somehow managed to produce a small tube of lube and he handed it to Brad.

Brad covered his hard dick liberally with the lube and crawled over on top of Ken. Ken had his back arched slightly, and his butt lifted, ready to take Brad.

Brad guided his hard dick to the opening of Ken's waiting hole and pressed forward firmly. Ken opened up for him and his rock hard six inches went to the hilt in one smooth thrust.

Both of them thought, Oh fuck that's amazing, at the same time, which caused them both to laugh. Brad started stroking in and out, slow and steady, aiming for Ken's prostrate. Ken had to be careful not to squeeze his ass muscles too tightly or he could hurt Brad, but he clenched and squeezed, and rotated his ass. Ken's ass felt like a strong, hot, moist, hand jerking him off.

They both shot a huge load within a few minutes; neither one of them had gotten off for weeks, at least in the physical world, and they needed to get the quick one out of the way. Brad never lost his erection, and pressed his full muscled body down against Ken's, nibbling and kissing Ken's shoulders, back, and neck, while he gently rode his best friend and lover for almost another hour. Brad worked up quite a sweat, and Ken loved to feel the hard, sweaty muscles of his partner pressing down against him.

Ken kept muttering his love and encouragement to Brad through their act of lovemaking. Brad wasn't as vocal, but Ken felt his love through their connection. Ken wanted to get on his back before he shot again, so he flipped over. They wanted to see each other's faces and be able to look into each other's eyes. Brad placed his hands on Ken's chest for support and squeezed tight, rubbing Ken's nipples with his fingertips while Ken let his hands roam up and over Brad's tight corded arms, shoulders, and chest while he was slowly thrusting in and out.

Brad left one hand on Ken's hard chest, and with his other hand he reached down and started stroking Ken's eight inch member. Ken couldn't help it and started pushing his hard dick in and out of Brad's tight fist. With their connection, Brad knew what felt best to Ken; how tight to squeeze, when to slightly twist his grip, when to speed up or slow down; it was the perfect hand job and coupled with feeling Brad inside him he was soon ready to shoot. In an amazing display of agility for such a large man, Brad bent over and took the head of Ken's dick into his mouth, sending Ken over the edge. With the onset of his orgasm, Ken's ass started to spasm and gripping Brad's erection, milking his dick and causing him to shoot off with his lover.

After they were both done shooting, Brad pulled out and lowered himself on to Ken, their bodies pressed tightly against one another, with both their semi hard cocks trapped between their sweaty stomachs. They were both breathing heavily. Ken reached around Brad's thick, heavy shoulders and pulled his head down so they could kiss. It started as a few tender kisses, while they looked into each other's eyes; but it soon built into a long passionate kiss that neither one wanted to break. Brad held Ken's head in both his hands, running his fingers through Ken's short hair with one hand, while tenderly brushing the hair back and gently rubbing Ken's forehead with his other hand. Occasionally they would break their kiss to catch their breath and smile at one another, and Ken would rub his stubbly cheeks against Brad's.

All of the sudden Ken's stomach let out the biggest rumble of hunger that Brad had ever heard. They both laughed and Brad put his hands back on Ken's chest to push himself up, getting in a last squeeze of Ken's rock solid body. Brad said, "Ok stud, let's get you something to eat. I need to start taking care of you."

Ken sat up on the edge of the bed, and wrapped his arms around Brad before he could move away. He pulled Brad back against him for one last hug and kissed his back, and said, "Yeah, B, seriously dude, I can't believe you put your own selfish need to get off before my well-being. I'm gonna have to talk to the doc about the hired help."

Brad just laughed and replied, "Ok mister, get your ass up off that bed. We need to throw the sheets into the washing machine, and grab a quick shower. I want to take you someplace nice, and while I have the utmost appreciation for how you smell right now I'm not sure the general public does."

Neither one of them said the obvious, because now they could both feel it, but they were relieved to have all the nastiness behind them and to be back to normal. Well, mostly normal. The fact that they could hear and feel each other's thoughts wasn't exactly normal, and would take some getting used to. It was so nice to be able to just relax with each other and be themselves. Now there were no barriers between them; they thought they were perfect together before all of this, but now that they were living with their minds and souls laid bare to one another it was... both liberating and frightening, but in a beautiful way and neither one of them would change it for all the world.

They knew the doctor wanted to talk to them, but for now he was giving them space so they could have some time to themselves. There were some enormous adjustments they were going to have to go through. And Brad had a lot to learn on how to control his new abilities.

The Order - Chapter 6

Brad and Ken showered together, which was fun but difficult in the tiny shower stalls at the lab. As soon as their soapy hands started running over each other they both got hard again, but they were trying to hurry to appease the constant rumbling of Ken's empty stomach. Every time Brad heard that cavernous rumble, he laughed and rubbed his soapy hands over Ken's tight stomach.

The best clothes they had in their lockers were jeans and t-shirts, but Brad thought that would be good enough for the restaurant he wanted to take Ken to.

As they finished dressing, Ken asked, "Ok B, where are we gonna eat man, cause I could eat a fuckin horse right now."

"It'll take us a few minutes to get there but I think I've got the perfect place." Brad put his arm around Ken's shoulder as they walked to the car, not wanting to end the physical contact just yet. He leaned over and kissed Ken's rough cheek, whispering in his ear, "No peeking, I want it to be a surprise." Ken had his hand around Brad's waist and he squeezed him tight and smiled.

They got in Ken's explorer, and Brad drove. It felt nice just to be together, shooting the shit and making small talk; neither of them brought up the events of the last few months. There was nothing to hide, but they both wanted to move past that dark time and not dwell on it. There would be plenty of time to remember, but for today they wanted a semblance of normalcy back in their lives.

Looking over at his partner, Brad was struck again at how handsome and studly Ken looked; the way he filled out his jeans and t-shirt, his clothes hinting at the body underneath but not so tight as to be showing off; and the sunglasses pushed him over the top. Ken was one of those men who had a perpetual five o'clock shadow, and the scruff on his face made him look that much sexier. It was such a huge turn on, and a testament to his character, that Ken was so casual and unassuming about his looks. He was so drop dead ruggedly handsome, and combined with his body, everyone around him always looked twice. Brad seldom paid attention, but people often reacted the same way towards him.

Seeing Ken in those hot glasses reminded Brad he needed to make a point to replace the broken and shattered aviator glasses Ken lost the night he was abducted. They were Ken's favorite pair and he looked so good in them.

Shortly after they pulled out of the lab, Ken reached over and took Brad's hand into his own and played with it the entire trip; fiddling with his fingers, rubbing his thumb across the back of Brad's hand, or just holding it tight.

As soon as they turned onto Hwy 141, Ken had a pretty good idea where they were going and his face broke out into a big smile, squeezing Brad's hand tight. He leaned forward with excitement and blurted out, "Oh fuck yeah, B! Man you always pick the best places!" The smile on Ken's face was worth it; Brad loved to see the little kid in Ken come out when he was happy. In another few minutes they pulled into the parking lot of The Stony River Steakhouse, one of Ken's all-time favorite restaurants.

After a huge lunch of salad, steak, baked potato, bread, beer, and even cheesecake for desert Brad was stuffed. Ken was still hungry and ordered another Ribeye, much to the amazement of their server. Even with their minds linked, all during the meal Ken kept rubbing their legs together under the table, wanting to feel the physical contact between them. They rarely made overt shows of affection in public, but after all the recent events, and their newfound closeness, neither of them was overly concerned about keeping their relationship on the lowdown.

On the drive home, Ken stretched out his arm and cupped his hand on the back of Brad's neck; tenderly, almost absentmindedly running his thumb and fingers through Brad's short blonde hair. Periodically he would move his hand lower and rub his neck or run the back of his finger through the growth on Brad's unshaven cheek.

When they pulled into the garage, before Ken could pull his hand back, Brad grabbed it and pulled Ken closer into a long kiss. As they were separating, Brad pulled Ken's head down a little and gave him a quick kiss on the forehead before getting out of the car.

"It feels good to be home, Ken, just you and me for a change. I love everyone but I need me some Ken time, and right now I don't feel like sharing."

"Yeah man I know what you mean. Let's get changed and go out by the pool for a bit."

"That sounds awesome."

Minutes later, both in their swim trunks, they jumped into the water. It was still summer and the temperature was in the upper 90's, so the water felt cool and refreshing. They both had a float of some kind, or in Ken's case a couple to support his extra body weight, so they could relax and recline in the water. They stayed close, and Brad had his legs loosely wrapped around Ken's waist so they could face one another, be lazy and soak up the sunshine. Ken reached out and took one of Brad's hands, just like he did when they drove. For over an hour they floated in silence, relaxing in each other's presence, their minds touching just like their bodies. The backyard was completely silent except for the occasional breeze and the lapping of the water against the floats. The only time they broke apart was to take turns going into the house to get more beer. It was a much needed quiet and peaceful time for both of them.

On Ken's next beer run he decided it was time to shake things up a little. As he came out of the house, a devilish grin on his handsome face, he started running and leapt about twelve feet into the air, doing a full 360 and landed in a cannonball right beside Brad with his 420 lb. body, completely capsizing him. Ken did a good job of hiding his intent, but his excitement leaked through, giving Brad just enough warning to take a quick breath, and he popped up out of the water, laughing and ready to retaliate. They were just starting to roughhouse a little when Brad said, "Wait a minute! Come over here."

Ken stopped splashing him and moved over to the edge of the pool. Brad patted his hand on the concrete and said, "Get your hot ass up here, buddy." Ken turned around and hopped up backwards, catching the edge of the pool and lifting himself up causing his arms and chest to tighten. The sight of his tanned taut body, muscles glistening from the water, gave Brad an instant hard on.

Brad moved over between Ken's legs, and while keeping eye contact, started to untie Ken's bathing suit.

Ken laughed and said, "B, what are you doing man? It's broad daylight!"

Brad grinned and asked, "So what's your point?"

As Brad fished Ken's dick out of his trunks, Ken said, "I think you are about to find out

"Just lean back and relax."

Ken lifted his hips up so Brad could pull his swim trunks completely off. He tossed them up on the pavement by the edge of the pool, and then reached out and started fondling Ken's hardening member.

Brad eyed Ken's growing dick, grinning as he said, "Mmmmmm chlorine dick, my fave!"

Even with the sex they had earlier, Ken was ready, and with Brad's touch he reached full eight inches in a matter of seconds.

Brad put his hands on Ken's hips to steady himself as he took Ken's hardness into his mouth and down his throat. He felt how tight it was and started to swallow and stroke Ken's dick with his throat, bobbing up and down slow and steady.

Ken threw his head back in pleasure and moaned, "Oh fuck yeah, B that feels good. Ohhhhh fuck yeah man...."

Ken continued moaning in pleasure and let Brad work him over. Brad was breathing hard, and starting to sweat from the hot sun on his shoulders and the effort he was putting into the blow job. Ken leaned forward and started running his hands over Brad's heavy shoulders and traps, caressing and squeezing his muscles, continuing to moan letting Brad know how good he was making him feel.

Brad's throat was relentless, forming a tight sheath wrapping and massaging Ken's hardness. After just a few minutes, Ken's balls started pulling up tight against the bottom of his shaft.

Between their connection and knowing Ken's body language, Brad took Ken to the edge and kept him there. He wanted a big load from Ken; he would need it for what he had planned a later in the evening.

Brad didn't want to pull off so he thought, Hey douche bag are you forgettin somethin?

Ken smiled and their eyes turned almost white for a brief second. As Brad continued to work on Ken, he now felt the pleasure on his own raging hard on. He kept both of them on edge for another ten minutes, wanting Ken's load to build up. Once he felt it was time, Brad started bobbing his head faster, and used his tongue on the head with every upstroke, continuing to stroke Ken's dick faster and faster.

Just as Ken reached the point of no return, Brad pushed all the way down and stuck his tongue out as far as he could and wrapped it around as much of Ken's tight, tender balls as he could reach. Knowing Ken would arch his back and push his chest out in pleasure, Brad reached up and grabbed each of Ken's big hard pecs, one in each hand, using his finger tips to firmly rub Ken's nipples.

Ken's head was thrown back, his eyes shut tight, and his breath was coming in short gasps of pleasure, "Oh fuck B, fuck buddy, AHHHHHH... I'm gonna shoot!"

With the first shot of Ken's white hot cum down Brad's throat, Brad felt his own dick start spurting into his swimming trunks. He let Ken's first few volleys shoot straight down his throat, and then he pulled up to work his tongue over the head for the rest of Ken's orgasm. Ken's entire body was rigid, muscles taught, and he was pushing his chest against Brad's big hands. He was sweating in the hot sun, and Brad got off on watching his magnificent sweaty body tight and flexed in pleasure.

Brad continued to suck Ken's softening dick until he rode out the last waves of his orgasm. With a contented sigh Ken said, "Fuck, B, no one can do that to me like you can bro." Ken reached down, putting his hands under Brad's arms, and lifted Brad out of the pool and on top of him. As he felt Brad's tight muscled body against his own, Ken could feel the warm spot on Brad's shorts where he shot off in his trunks. He wrapped his arms tightly around Brad's back hugging him close, and they kissed and cuddled in the hot sun, until they were both getting uncomfortable in the heat and on the hard concrete.

As they stood up Ken reached for Brad's swim trunks but Brad stopped him saying, "Let's wait a bit man. I got off with you. Besides, I have a plan for a little later, so promise me you won't peek." Brad tapped his temple when he said that.

Ken's gaze raked over Brad's amazing body, dripping wet, and with a lewd grin on his handsome face he said, "Fuck, B, I don't need to look on the inside, the outside is plenty good enough to keep me occupied."

Going into the house, they rinsed off in the shower, and put on some dry shorts. It was a warm day so they both went shirtless.

After fixing a big lunch, Ken found a good movie on Pay- Per-View and lay down on the couch to get it started. Brad lay down with him, so the back of his head was resting on Ken's chest and his lower half was wrapped up by Ken's legs.

By the end of the movie they had both gotten up at least once to go to the bathroom and to get drinks, so their positions ended up reversed with Ken's head and shoulders on Brad's lap. Normally Ken would be far too heavy but Brad was still amped up from their last round of sex, and Brad loved feeling the weight of Ken's body on top of him. As they lay together, finishing the movie, Brad gently ran his hands through Ken's hair and massaged his forehead and temples.

When the movie was over, Ken wasn't tired but he was so relaxed from Brad's ministrations, he almost slurred the words, "Fuck B, that feels so nice. You are too good to me."

"Don't get too relaxed man; I still have a surprise for you!"

"Dude, you are makin me feel horrible. All you've done today is take care of me and I've just been a big slug. I need to take care of you now."

"We aren't keepin score Ken; you know that. After all we've both been through... I feel the need to let you know how much you mean to me. We never have to doubt each other ever again. The only reason we aren't any deeper inside each other's heads right now is because I want to surprise you tonight." Brad leaned over and kissed Ken on his forehead and said, "After that, I have a date inside this handsome head of yours."

Ken lookup up so he could make eye contact and said, "B, I thought I was happy bein with you before, but now... I don't know... I feel like we were stumblin around in the dark. I don't know how normal people make it day in and day out bein so closed off from each other."

Brad continued slowly brushing the hair back on Ken's forehead while they were talking.

"Don't think too much about it, Ken; at least not right now. I have a feelin the doctor planned this out from the beginning. It would be a totally different world if there were no lies; if there couldn't be any lies. It would still be harsh, and sad; people would still be assholes, just honest assholes. But I think if everyone could feel what we feel it would bring humanity up to a new level, and give us a real chance at a future."

Ken grinned and said, "Fuck me you are talkin smart again. Should I be worried?"

Brad reached down and pinched one of Ken's nipples and said, "You are such a douche man."

Ken's smile got even bigger and looked up at Brad, melting his heart, and said, "But I'm a lovable douche, right?"

"God, I hate to admit it, but you are. And you're all mine."

They stayed together on the couch, quiet and content to be together and touching. After a few minutes their breathing became slow and steady as they both drifted off to sleep for a few hours.

Brad woke up first and saw how late it was getting, so he gently woke Ken up and they went into the kitchen to start making dinner. Brad cooked and Ken cleaned; another part of their routine they were thrilled to get back into.

When the last of the pots and pans were dried and put away Ken asked, "Ok, so what's this about a surprise."

Brad moved over and put his arms around Ken's shoulders bringing them together for a kiss. When he broke it off he took one of Ken's hands in his and said, "Come with me."

Brad led him down the hall to the spare bedroom which was mostly empty, except for some shelves, some free weights on a rack, and a floor standing punching bag.

With a solemn look on his face, he turned to face Ken, and put his hands on Ken's bare shoulders, squeezing them gently.

With a nervous smile, Ken asked, "Should I be worried?"

Brad was quiet for a few more seconds before he said, "No. I think you'll like this." There was another short pause while Brad just looked into Ken's eyes.

"Ken you trust me right?"

"Of course I do, B. With my life bro, you know that."

"And you know that I would never do anything to hurt you right?"

"B, what are you getting at? You're scarin me bud."

"When we merged that first time, it caught us both by surprise; it was painful, and wonderful, and I fell in love with you all over again. While I was in your mind... well I saw some things that were very private; we both did. You had them tucked away pretty far in your mind, and I think I know why you put them there. Seeing those thoughts hurt, because I know now that I haven't been able to meet some of your needs. I think you were keeping them hidden, even from yourself, because you never thought they could be a possibility. But now things are different, and I can take you to that place and be the person you need me to be, when you need me too."

Brad moved his hands off Ken's shoulders and cupped his face gently but firmly with both hands, running his thumbs across Ken's rough cheeks in a gentle caress.

"If you really don't want me to do this, I'll stop. If at any point you want me to stop, just think it and I'll know. But I think if you go with me on this, I'm going to fulfill a need in you that you never thought possible. "

"I don't want you to say anything, just nod your head if you want me to continue, yes or no. And know that I won't be disappointed or hurt if you say no. You know how much I love you, Ken, and nothing can or will ever change that, now or ever."

Ken felt nervous, and he had butterflies in his stomach like a kid who knows he is about to get laid for the first time and is so scared and excited he can hardly stand it. He nodded his head yes. He was hard as a rock.

Brad smiled.

"Alright, this is what is going to happen. First we're gonna have a little wrestling match. If you pin me, you can do whatever you want to me, but if I win, I get to do whatever I want to you. And you better not hold back, fucker, or I'll know."

Ken noticed the change in Brad's demeanor; his back seemed straighter and his broad shoulders were squared back and he had a confident, almost commanding look on his face. Brad lifted off his shirt and tossed it on the floor, leaving on his shorts. He nodded for Ken to do the same; they were both already barefoot.

Brad stepped back and planted his legs in a balanced stance, and held his hands up. Ken was still unsure and hesitated because he didn't want to hurt his lover, but he put his hands up so their fingers could intertwine.

Brad jerked Ken forward fast and hard and got him into a side headlock, plastering Ken's face against his ribcage. Ken's combat instincts took over and he tried to sweep Brad's leg to get him onto the floor. But Brad had been a Navy Seal as well, and was fully trained in close combat, and right now he was charged up from the sex they had earlier by the pool. Brad easily blocked the sweep and spun around, lifting Ken up in the air and slamming him down onto the carpet. The whole house felt the impact as 420lbs. of rock solid muscle hit floor. Ken let out a loud "Ooomph!" as his back hit the floor.

"Come on Ken, I'm gonna kick your ass anyways but don't let me! Make me! Come on buddy!"

Brad backed off so Ken could get up. Ken stood up and shrugged his shoulders and cracked his neck, loosening himself up. With a grin on his face and his shorts tenting out he said, "Ok B, you are asking for it fucker. No more mister nice guy."

Brad glanced down and saw Ken was hard and realized his plan was already working.

The match lasted for nearly half an hour. Ken realized early on that with Brad charged up like he was, so much more than he used to be, he was very likely his equal. Ken loved the feel of muscle on muscle, and he was getting turned on more and more as they both started to sweat heavily from their exertions. The closet doors were mirrored and he kept catching glimpses of the two of them locked together, muscles straining, cords and veins showing all over, and their bodies shining with sweat.

Ken realized that Brad was right about him wanting this. No, not wanting... he needed to feel Brad as his equal; even his superior. Brad was an excellent fighter, and right now not only was he as strong as Ken, but he was motivated to win. Both men were breathing hard and looking for the opening they needed to pin the other.

They were so evenly matched Ken finally decided that he would just have to try and overpower Brad, so when they were apart and circling each other, he raised his hands up with his fingers out, nodding to Brad to do the same; it was a classic test of strength. Without hesitating Brad locked hands with Ken, and immediately both of their bodies began to flex and strain. At first their hands were high up but after their fingers locked together their arms moved down, both trying and get better leverage. Ken wanted to force Brad down on his knees, and he was surprised when Brad stayed up; he was shaking, and straining from the effort, but he held his ground. As their hands lowered, their bodies moved closer together. Brad inched his way forward and pressed his straining chest against Ken's and started rubbing himself slowly up and down. They made eye contact and Brad grinned.

Ken was so turned he was on the verge of exploding, and had been for the entire match. To be able to pit himself against Brad like this was something he had never dreamed possible. It wasn't about dominating Brad, it was about being dominated by Brad, which was something he never, ever thought could happen.

When he felt Brad's rock hard, sweaty, hairy chest rubbing against his own it sent him over the edge and his dick started shooting in his shorts. Brad felt the distraction as Ken started shooting and he pulled back quickly, head-butting Ken in his solar plexus, and knocking the wind out of him as he was momentarily overcome by the pleasure of his orgasm.

Brad was on top of him in a flash and pinned Ken's shoulders to the carpet.

Brad put his hands on either side of Ken's face and he leaned over. Sweat was dripping off of his body onto Ken and mixing with his own. They were both breathing heavy. Brad smiled and leaning down, whispered hotly into Ken's ear, "Got you fucker. I know that was something you've wanted, but this is only the beginning. Now the fun really starts. Get up and take off your shorts."

Ken got up and stripped off his shorts. His dick, still hard as a rock even after he just came, slapped up against his tight stomach. Brad went over and got a small futon out of the closet that they kept for guests to sleep on. He threw it on the floor and said, "Get on your knees in the middle."

Brad pulled out some silk rope he had put in the closet earlier.

"Spread your legs further out and put your hands behind your back, and cross your ankles." Ken did as he was told; his dick diamond hard and throbbing with every heartbeat. His excitement wasn't centered only on his erection; his whole body was aroused and trembling in anticipation. Brad went behind him and started tying his hands together, then his feet, and finally linked the knots between his hands and ankles, forcing a slight arch in his back pushing his chest out.

Brad put his hands on Ken's shoulders and leaned over so Ken could feel his hot breath against his ear and neck and he whispered; "Now I get to do whatever I want to you, buddy. Your body is mine, and your pleasure is mine. If I want to get you off I can, or I can tease you until you beg me to let you cum." Brad could literally feel the heat coming off Ken's body in waves and he knew how much this was affecting him; he's never seen Ken react like this before. He could feel the anticipation, need, and desire building inside Ken's mind, and knew he was on the right track.

Brad stood up and moved around in front.

"Yeah, I know this turns you on. You can't hide it." Brad reached down and slid his fingertip from the base of Ken's hard throbbing eight inches slowly up to the head which was dripping precum.

Ken didn't make a sound, but he was more excited than he had ever been in his entire life. His whole body was flushed and his stomach had that cold ball of fire from the anticipation of what was coming next. Brad reached down and scooped a big drop of precum off the end of Ken's dick and held it up for Ken to lick off. He almost shot again when Brad's fingers rubbed over the head of his dick.

"You see, Ken, it's not just about getting you off buddy. It's about giving you want you need. You want to test your body. You have all this strength and power, and all these big beautiful muscles, and yet you hardly ever get tested; you always have to hold back. There are only a few men on the planet that even have a chance against you, and right now I'm one of them. The wrestling was fun, but that was just the beginning."

As Brad was talking, he walked over to the shelves and picked up a pair of padded leather boxing gloves. He put them on and secured them with the Velcro straps to his wrists. He moved back around in front of Ken, and looked down at his muscular body, dripping with sweat, and his eight inch hard on sticking straight up and throbbing against his stomach.

Brad lifted up his hands and rubbed the back of the gloves across Ken's nipples. Ken sucked in his breath and arched his back a little, pushing his chest out against Brad's touch.

"I know you think you are tough, buddy. Let's see what you got." Brad stepped back and punched Ken hard on his chest. Ken jerked in surprise. He saw the next blow coming and he instinctively tightened his muscles to absorb the blow. If Brad wasn't amped up he might have hurt his hand from the impact on Ken's chest; it felt like he punched a steel plate. But he was amped up, both physically from their earlier lovemaking, and emotionally because knew he was meeting a need within his lover that he could never have given him before.

Brad started using Ken's chest and body like a punching bag, raining down blows, constantly pounding his chest and abs. With the impact of every blow, sweat was flying off both of them. Every punch against his hard taught muscles was getting Ken more and more excited.

Brad had never seen Ken's body so pumped before. Looking into Ken's mind he realized he had taken Ken to a state of unparalleled arousal; his thoughts were almost incoherent from the feelings that were overpowering him. Ken was pushing his chest out and leaning in to the blows, pushing himself past whatever limits he thought he had before. He had shot off at least once already and when Brad stopped to rub the soft backside of the gloves against his hard shaft, he shot again. Ken couldn't stop moaning or grunting pleasure through all of it. Brad kept it up for about forty minutes, until he had to stop and catch his breath. His hands were really starting to hurt from the impact on Ken's dense body, and he was tiring himself out, even with all his extra energy.

Ken's head was thrown back and his eyes were closed, his mouth open. His chest and stomach were red from all the blows and his breath was coming in ragged gasps; his body shaking from the effort of keeping his muscles tensed for so long. With every exhale his abs contracted so tight all ten abdominal ridges were clearly and deeply defined. He was fully pumped; his muscles swollen like he just finished with an intense workout; veins visible all across his sweaty body.

Brad cupped Ken's head in between his gloved hands, forcing Ken to look up at him and he said, "Fuck yeah Ken. Your chest is like fuckin armor man. It's like hittin a steel plate. And you are gettin off on it aren't ya buddy?"

Ken felt Brad's hands on his face and he opened his eyes but they were glazed and unfocused; he was overwhelmed with the emotion and sensations Brad was causing him to experience, and his he was having a hard time coming back from the place Brad took him.

Brad was incredibly turned on by seeing and feeling Ken's reaction to this. He wanted to make sure Ken was aware how much he was getting out of this as well. Seeing Ken, naked and tied up, and shooting multiple orgasms without Brad even touching his dick, was about to send Brad over the top himself. The most exciting thing to Brad, above the physical reaction, was knowing he was able to be who Ken needed him to be.

Brad pulled Ken's face hard against his own hot chest, hugging him tight, squeezing with all the strength that was left in his amped up body. The heat and excitement between them was almost unbearable. Brad backed off before he shot again, kissing the top of Ken's head as he did.

"Now for the last part buddy. If you want your revenge this is the time." Brad stripped off the gloves, and untied the ropes, and dropped his shorts to the floor, showing Ken how hard he was. He slapped the palms of his hands hard against Ken's chest and was roughly kneading his pecs, and using his fingers to firmly rub over Ken's nipples.

"I know you always have to hold back when you fuck me. Well no more buddy, at least not when you don't want too. I want you to pound my ass and my body as hard and fast as you have ever wanted to. You won't hurt me bro, not tonight. Squeeze my body as tight as you have ever wanted too. I want to feel how strong you are and I'm not afraid. I want you to cut loose on me like you've always wanted to but never have because you were afraid of hurting me."

Brad moved back up and looked directly into Ken's green eyes, looking for a sign that everything was ok. Ken's mind was still reeling from the overpowering sensations Brad was bringing out in him. His eyes were bright, and bloodshot from all the sweat that had run down into them. His short brown hair was plastered against his head. Looking intently into Ken's eyes Brad quietly asked, "Are you ok buddy? Is this ok?"

Ken could barely talk his throat was so tight with emotion, and his voice cracked as he whispered, "B, I've never been more ok in my entire life."

With that Brad threw his arms around Ken's shoulders and jumping up he wrapped his legs around Ken's waist. Ken caught him like he was a child, cupping his ass cheeks with his hands to support his weight. He felt his cock sitting at the entrance to Brad's waiting ass and thrust forward. Ken was so wound up that he shot off immediately as soon he felt his dick slide up into Brad. The hot velvety glove was just too much, and his whole body tensed and flexed and he squeezed Brad so hard it would have cracked his spine if he wasn't charged up. Brad started clenching his ass around Ken's dick as he was firing off volley after volley of molten cum inside of him. To Ken it felt like a tight silken hand milking his dick. Brad felt new energy spreading into him with Ken's orgasm.

Ken held the embrace long enough to stop shooting, and then he started thrusting into Brad, lifting him up by his ass cheeks with every stroke. Ken's body was still fully pumped; every muscle in his body was straining and flexing, feeling the pleasure. Brad was letting himself go in the pleasure too... Ken was pounding his prostrate mercilessly and the feel of Ken's body holding him up and flexing as he thrust into Brad, sweat flying off both of them with every smack of Ken's pelvis against his ass, was hotter than he ever imagined.

Ken proceeded to plow Brad for hours, and had at least three more orgasms before he finally exhausted himself. After the first thirty minutes he lowered them both onto the futon, and he had Brad in every conceivable position over the next three hours. Brad shot off two more times, covering both of them with cum.

Through all of this, Ken felt more alive and full of love for Brad than he ever had. Finally spent, he collapsed on top of Brad, pulling their hot, sweaty, cum covered bodies together. Neither one of them had ever sweated or cum so much at one time. Brad's eyes were shut tight, and he inhaled the musky smell of Ken's sweat, nuzzling his face against his thick neck. Ken rubbed his stubble covered cheek against Brad's as he hugged his lover back.

There was total silence for about five minutes while they both caught their breath, hugging one another tight, and then they both let out a, "Ohhhhhhhh fuckkkkkkkk" at the same time, which started them laughing.

Ken's whole body was shaking from exhaustion and for the first time, maybe ever since the Program, he was as weak as a kitten. Brad whispered, "Stay here", and he got up and left the room. He quickly came back with two bottles of Gatorade. He set one down for Ken and then plopped down beside him on the futon.

Brad sat there in silence, gently stroking Ken's chest, giving him time to recover and come back to himself. After a few minutes he broke the silence.

"Fuck Ken, I don't know about you bro but for me THAT was EPIC. If I ever have any doubts about your virility ever again just remind me of tonight." Ken was on his back with his arms and legs sprawled out; his eyes were open but he was looking up at nothing, his mind still coming back from the place Brad took him inside himself. Brad lay down beside him and propped his head up on one hand and he let his other hand roam all over Ken's chest and abs, caressing his sweaty, trembling muscles.

Ken looked over at Brad and tried to talk but his throat closed up, and tears started streaming down his face as he lay on the futon. He reached for Brad with his mind and thought; I love you with all my heart and soul Brad Wilson. I thank God every day for you being in my life. I can't believe what you just did for me. That was the most amazing thing EVER buddy.

Ken opened his mind and heart, filling Brad with all of him. Brad opened up as well and embraced Ken with his heart and soul, merging them completely. They lay like that for hours, in each other's arms and minds, awake and content, before they finally drifted off to sleep.

The doctor didn't want either Ken or Brad to go back to work at the security firm yet. He wanted them both to take at least three to four weeks to relax, and start learning how to adjust to their newfound abilities. Unless they had any concerns or questions, he would wait to talk to them about everything that happened after that. The only thing he specifically asked them not to do was to try anything mental with any of the other team members if they came by to visit. They would still be at the gym nearly every day and the doctor would be available if anything came up they needed to talk with him about.

Over the next few weeks, Ken and Brad got up every morning and went for their morning run. Brad went with Ken to do his workout routine at the gym attached to the lab; that part of the lab was specifically equipped for Ken and the others who were so much stronger. Brad actually belonged to a gym closer to their house, since he worked out with normal weights, but for now he made do at the lab to stay close to Ken. He didn't want Ken to have to go with him for his workout after his own; it would have taken a big chunk of time out of their day.

Brad loved getting back into the routine of giving Ken his post workout exams almost as much as Ken. The regular, mid-morning sex always got the rest of their day off to a great start!

When they got back from their run and Ken was getting dressed after their shower, he noticed his tennis shoes were coming apart on the sides. Being so heavy, Ken goes through shoes quickly; they just aren't designed to carry his kind of weight around. So they decided to swing by the Mall of Georgia up in Buford and look for some new shoes. They hadn't been shopping in a while and Brad thought it might be nice to pick out some new clothes for both of them while they were there.

When they got to the mall it was horribly crowded. School was still out, so even in the middle of the day it was wall to wall teenagers. The mom's with baby strollers were out in force as always. Ken and Brad both got a lot of looks from the girls and the moms and many from the guys too, as they walked around the mall.

Ken didn't notice it at first, but Brad was getting quieter as they moved through the mall. He seemed a bit distracted while they were looking at shoes in The Foot Locker, and said, "Hey Ken, I gotta go hit the head. I'll meet you back down by the carousel at the food court." He didn't wait for a reply and walked out quickly. Ken reached out with his mind to see what was wrong, but either Brad was out of his range quickly or he had dampened their link for some reason. It was still there, but turned down to a bare minimum. Maybe he just had to pee really badly and didn't want the feeling to spill over into Ken. They learned early on that each of them could send echo's to the other without meaning too. If one of them was really hungry, or had to go to the bathroom, the other could mirror the sensation. They were getting better at controlling that type of side effect, but it still happened on occasion. His intuition wasn't picking up any physical danger so Ken didn't think too much about it.

It was taking him longer to find a pair shoes than he expected. They never seemed to have his size in the shoes he liked, so he had to keep looking for another pair that would work for jogging and felt comfortable.

He finally settled on a pair, and just as he was finishing at the cash register, Ken felt his connection to Brad sever completely. He was so used to it by now that it was second nature, and when it suddenly disappeared it was like he had a hole inside him. They didn't stay in each other's minds, or even talk to one another mentally all the time, but there was still that feeling of being connected that both of them had come to rely on. He felt like he had just gotten punched in the gut when Brad's presence disappeared.

Ken nearly bowled over a couple of teenage kids as he rushed out of the store. The bathrooms were at the food court on the lower level, and there was a carousel for kids to ride at the bottom of the escalators they use as a meeting place if they ever have to split up. Brad said he would meet him there.

Ken scanned the area, bustling with people, but didn't see Brad anywhere. The noise level with all the people was outrageous, so calling out wouldn't do any good. He ran down the hallway that led to the bathrooms and as soon as he turned the corner into the Men's Room, he saw Brad sitting down on the floor with his back against the wall at the far end of the room. He had his knees pulled up against his chest and his head was down on his forearms. Ken's first thought was thank God he's here, and his second that was that while something was obviously wrong, he appeared to be physically ok.

He rushed over and, kneeling down, put a hand on Brad's shoulder. Brad flinched from the contact, not even looking up. His body was taught as a wire, and his t-shirt was soaked with sweat and he was white as a sheet.

Ken tried to keep his voice steady and said, "B, what's goin on? What's the matter buddy?"

Brad slowly raised his head up and he had a confused, distant look on his face. He was staring right through Ken like he didn't even see him.

Not knowing what else to do, he firmly took Brad's face between his hands, and forced him to look directly at Ken. "B, focus man. You are scaring the shit out of me bro! It's me, Ken!"

He whispered,"Ken? Oh fuck! Thank God it's you," and he launched himself into Ken's arms, grabbing ahold and squeezing desperately.

"It's ok B, I got you bro, I got you." Ken grabbed him and held him close, wrapping him up so he would feel safe and protected. He started rubbing his hand up and down Brad's back, giving him time to snap out of whatever was going on. Ken reached out with his mind, now that they were touching; he felt some resistance, but he pushed against it and was stunned as thousands of loud voices, all jumbled and talking over one another filled his mind. He was seeing through all their eyes at the same time and it was so chaotic he couldn't focus. The emotions and feelings were there too, and overwhelming. The pain in his head from that sudden influx was piercingly sharp and he rebounded out of Brad's mind in shock and surprise. He was breathing hard and seeing spots in his eyes from just a brief exposure; he knew Brad felt everything far stronger than he did so what Brad was experiencing had to be almost unbearable. "Fuck, B! I gotta get you out of here!"

Ken was sure he knew what was going on but he didn't know or understand how it could have happened; for some reason the thoughts and feelings of all the people in the Mall were flooding into Brad all at once. The problem was that there were so many people he would have to get Brad through them to get him out of here, and he wasn't even sure if Brad could walk right now, and he didn't want to draw attention by carrying him over his shoulder.

"Ken, I can't hold 'em off, there's too many. They're so loud! Fuck man, the lies and the hate and the cruelty all under the surface... it's... really... painful! I'm not sure how much more I can take."

"B, buddy, look at me bro. Look at me!" Ken had to shake Brad and he even slapped him to try to get him to snap out it enough to focus.

"Listen to me B! Listen to my voice, and focus on me. I got an idea buddy. Look at me and focus, and we are gonna figure this shit out."

Brad's eyes lost a little of their detachment, and he seemed to be trying to look at Ken. "There are so many, Ken, it's hard to hear you... all the voices..."

Ken knew that Brad was the one that their mental connection came from, just as Ken was responsible for the physical connection. He remembered how Brad had made the construct of the river, that small piece of reality that he used to imprison the creature that almost destroyed them both. Ken didn't have the power to do something that big, but after being connected to Brad, his mind has grown some. He could initiate the connection when they were close, and touching, like they were now.

Ken could hear some teenagers coming down the hallway to the bathroom, talking loudly among themselves.

Fuck! Well there's nothing for it. If they see us they see us.

Ken closed his eyes and started forming a picture in his mind, of a small, sound proof room, with solid walls that no one could see in or out of sitting out in the middle of the food court at the mall. The only two people allowed in that room were Ken and Brad. He imagined all the people, milling about and shopping, and talking, but inside that little glass room it was deathly quiet.

It was difficult to hold that image in his mind and then start pushing against Brad's resistance. Desperation and adrenaline can work wonders, and he literally punched through into Brad's mind. Opening his eyes he found himself in the food court. His construct wasn't nearly as defined as Brad's and it seemed a little hazy and distorted, like a dream episode from The Twilight Zone or The Outer Limits.

Brad was at his feet, bent over in pain, holding his head. Picking him up, he threw Brad over his shoulder in a fireman's carry. In the construct, no one was paying any attention to them; it was as if everyone was so wrapped up in themselves that they couldn't see what was happening right in front of them.

Ken rushed inside the room with Brad and closed the door behind him. As soon as the seal was shut, all the voices stopped. He could feel the pressure on his own mind and saw the walls bowing from the pressure but it seemed to be holding for now.

He set Brad gently down on the floor and admonished himself for not thinking to put a couch or a bed to put Brad on. Brad was breathing heavily, and he was still holding his head, and he kept repeating,"Oh fuck, oh fuck...," over and over. Ken got behind him and pulled Brad up into a sitting position and wrapped his arms tightly around him and put his chin on Brad's shoulder and started rocking him gently.

"Shhhhhh just be quiet for a minute bro and relax. Just relax and be still..." Ken kept whispering encouragement, wanting Brad to continue to hear his voice so he could focus and relax. Ken moved one of his hands up and starting brushing the hair back from Brad's forehead, continuing to rock him back and forth in a soothing motion. He was scared for Brad and couldn't imagine what had set this off. He knew that Brad had been practicing to keep this type of thing from happening so something must have triggered it.

After a few minutes Brad's breathing was back to normal and he grabbed ahold of Ken's forearm that was wrapped around his middle. He whispered a quiet, "Thanks man. Fuck my head hurts. Where are we?"

"To be honest B I'm not sure if we're in my head or yours right now. I didn't have much time so I put this together on the fly hoping it would work. You and I are still in the men's bathroom."

Brad gave a surprised, "No shit?"

"So what happened, B? I mean I think I know what happened, but how and why?"

"I went to the bathroom and everything was fine. I haven't been around this many people yet, but I was doing fine until out of the blue this scream tore right through my mind and it broke the shield I had up. I've been practicing on keeping up a barrier to keep people's thoughts out; most of what they think is seriously fucked up and I need to shut it out. But that scream cut through me like a knife, and suddenly it was like everyone in the mall was inside my head, with all their fucked up shit. The anger, and lies, and jealousies, and self-centeredness... It physically hurts if I let it in. And it hurts like hell to try and look through a thousand pairs of eyes at the same time. But Ken, I think some little kid is in trouble. It was his scream that broke through. He's terrified of something, and I think he might even be hurt."

"Ok B, first we need to get out of here. Are you ok now?"

"Yeah I think I'm good. Thanks man, you pulled my ass out of the fire."

Ken pulled him into a quick tight hug and said, "Yeah that's what badass boyfriends are supposed to do."

"I just wish you didn't have to do it quite so often. I'm beginnin to wonder if I'm ever gonna get a grip on this mental stuff."

"Whoa, B, stop right there." Ken grabbed Brad firmly by his shoulders and held him at arm's length. "First off, do you remember how long it took me and the others to adjust to our bodies after the change? Yeah, that's right it was months. And we were all in good shape physically before the change. This is no different, bro. You are dealin with this shit way better than I ever could, and you are doin fuckin great. It's all new territory and it sucks but you are learnin as you go. There isn't a manual for this type of thing."

"Yeah, I guess you are right."

"No guessing about it, B. Look in here and I'll prove it." Ken took Brad's hand and placed it over his heart.

Brad merged with Ken and let himself get lost for a moment in the bond they shared. The love and support they had for one another was like a healing balm and a shot of adrenaline at the same time, lifting him up. Brad drew strength from Ken's physical presence; feeling the heat of Ken's body, and breathing in his scent.

B, use us as a shield bro. What we have is strong enough to get us through anythin as long as we are together. If you feel yourself slippin, just come back to this, to what we have, and let it be a barrier that nothin can get through.

Hey Ken.

Yeah?

I'm supposed to be the smart one, you know that right?

Hey buddy, I'm just holdin you up til you get back on your feet. Remember that's what badass boyfriends do for one another. Remember that the next time I get knocked on my ass ok?

Alright, we've been here long enough; let's get back to our bodies.

Neither one of them noticed a well-dressed man sitting in the food court in Ken's construct, watching them. To him, the walls of Ken's room were like glass and he could hear everything they were saying and thinking. He had a contemptuous look on his face as he listed to their thoughts, and he vanished just before Brad took them back into their bodies.

Brad opened his eyes and he was sitting on the floor of the men's bathroom. Ken was kneeling beside him with one of his hand on his shoulder. Ken stood up and held out a hand to help Brad up.

Even with everything that transpired in the construct, only a few seconds at most had passed in the real world. Just as Brad stood up, the teenagers rounded the corner and came into the bathroom.

Brad looked at himself in the mirror; he was still a bit pale and drenched in sweat. Ken was holding their shopping bags, and Brad said, "Hey Ken, would you mind handing me one of the new shirts? I don't wanna go back out there lookin like this. And remind me to burn these clothes, I'm not sure I can wear them again knowing that they were on the floor of a public bathroom."

One of the teenagers, a young Hispanic kid, looked over at Brad and asked, "Hey man, you ok? You need some help?"

Brad felt his concern was legitimate and it made him feel just a little bit better. His honest concern for a stranger and willingness to help was uplifting.

"Thanks for asking, man but I'm ok. Something I ate didn't agree with me."

The kid nodded and went over to a urinal to take a piss.

Brad washed his face and wet his short hair, wiping off his face and the excess water out of his hair with some paper towels. He changed shirts quickly and taking a deep breath, he looked and felt better, except for the pain in his head.

The kids were starting to head out and Ken heard one of them say, "Shit did you see that guy? He was built!" Ken smiled to himself at hearing their comments about Brad. He couldn't agree more!

Ken noticed Brad's eyes were really red and asked if he was ok.

"Yeah, I have a pounding headache, but I'm good. I'm ready if that happens again. Ken we need to find that kid."

"Don't you think we should at least call the doc and see if he has an opinion on what just happened?"

"We don't have time. We can after, but I have a bad feeling about what's goin on with this kid. We can call the doc after, man, I promise."

"Alright, so you heard this kid scream, but did you see him? Do we know who we're lookin for?"

"It's a little boy, but I didn't see his face. He's young, maybe three or four I think. I got a brief glimpse through his eyes, before he got jumbled into everyone else. He was in the food court and I could see the Dairy Queen sign from where he was sittin. There's a man and a woman sittin with him. The man has some serious tats on his arms. He's big and the kid is scared shitless of him. He did somethin to the kid that triggered this. It had to be pretty bad for him to react like he did."

"Ok, we're going out there and take a look. If they're still there we need to identify them and hold tight for a few minutes. We can't just barge in and tell them you had a vision of their terrified son. If the kid's in trouble we'll need some kind of proof to really help him."

Brad and Ken left the bathroom and headed over towards the Dairy Queen counter. A movie must have just gotten out at the upstairs theater and people were flooding into the food court off the escalators. The noise level was louder than ever and the place was packed.

Even with all the noise, Ken heard a few kids crying nearby, and he immediately honed in on the little boy. He had on an Iron Man t-shirt, shorts, and tennis shoes. His face was bright red from crying, and tears were streaming down his little face. He was hysterical from sobbing so hard, and his nose was running and he had spittle all over his chin, dripping down onto his shirt. He had made quite a mess of the kid's meal in front of him. His little fingers were still holding a soggy half eaten ketchup covered french-fry, but he was crying so hard he couldn't finish it.

The boy's mother was trying to calm him down, but the father, a big man, muscular and covered with tattoo's looked furious. He grabbed the little boy, each of his big fists gripping one of his small arms, and he jerked the boy harshly into his lap. Ken winced for the kid, knowing the man could easily break his arms if he wasn't careful.

Ken turned to Brad and said, "Hey B go get mall security pronto."

Brad felt Ken's reaction when he saw the man jerk the boy into his lap and his head snapped around and he saw them. Brad's voice turned steely and he said, "You call 'em bro. He's not touching that kid again. In fact you better call an ambulance."

Ken wasn't worried about Brad getting hurt, but he was worried about what Brad might do to the guy. Ken could feel white hot waves of anger literally radiating out from Brad through their link. Ken was startled at the burst of raw power Brad was emitting.

Ken muttered an, "Oh Shit," under his breath.

Brad felt his concern and said, "Don't worry Ken I'm in control."

Ken hoped he or Brad knew some of the mall cops on duty. It would make whatever was about to happen easier to smooth over.

When Brad got close he could hear the man screaming into the kid's ear, "Why the fuck can't you ever listen you little shit? Do you know how much that food costs?"

The mother was trying to diffuse the situation, but she was obviously scared. Brad could see her hands trembling. "Doug baby, you know he didn't mean it! He's just a baby! Here let me take him..." She reached over to take the boy from him and he slammed the boy down in the chair next to him away from her. The boy was so hysterical all he could do was cry, and the pitch of his scream just went a little higher as he was slammed down into the hard wooden chair. His little legs were kicking and he was squirming from the pain of the impact onto the hard wood. His cries were mostly drowned out in the noise level of the mall, and only a few people right next to them could see what was going on, and most of them were trying to ignore the situation. The mother cringed, and the man reached over and grabbed her wrist. Brad could see traces of bruises on her arms.

The guy was big and had broad shoulders and huge arms, but he was redneck fat and had a slight paunch to his gut from all the beer. He looked mean, but Brad was 6' 2" and 245 lbs. of solid muscle and a trained Navy Seal. People around Doug were starting to stare and point, but he was oblivious to them.

The anger inside Brad snapped when he saw the bruises on her arms and the little boy's legs kicking from the pain. He reached down and grabbed the man by his wrist and squeezed hard enough to break his grip on his wife's arm. He said calmly but loud enough to be heard, "Let go of her."

The man jerked his head up, furious. "You let go of me right now mother fucker or I'll rip your arm off!" The man stood up fast enough to knock his chair back and over. The people who were staring all started backing away quickly, seeing that a fight was about to break out. It was obvious by his posture and body language that he was trying to intimidate Brad.

Brad kept his grip, and twisted his arm behind his back, putting him in a very painful arm lock and shoved his face down onto the table, purposefully aiming for the ketchup covered napkin sitting on the table. The woman's eyes went wide as saucers. Brad calmly looked at her and said, "Ma'am you see that man over there in the blue t-shirt talking with mall security?"

The woman just nodded her head. She was starting to shake.

"You need to take your little boy and go over to him. He's going to make sure you and your son are safe, while I have a talk with Doug here."

Doug was livid, his face turning purple with rage, "You fuckin bastard! How the hell do you know my name? I'm gonna kill you! Liz, get your ass back over here bitch if you know what's good for you!"

Liz picked up Drew and hugged him tight against her and moved quickly over to Ken.

"Doug, I'm going to let you go so we can have a little chat. If you are smart, which I doubt, you'll pick up your chair and sit your ass down. But I hope you are a dumbshit just like you look, and that you'll take a swing at me."

He let go of Doug's arm and quickly moved back out of his reach. Brad looked calm and relaxed, but he was anything but; he was completely prepared for Doug to rush him.

Doug's face was almost purple with rage and he was breathing hard, his nostrils flaring, as he looked around; everyone was staring at him, making him feel foolish and angry. Brad could feel the flow of emotions running through his shallow brain.

Ken was dealing with mall security about twenty feet away, but he was keeping an eye on the situation. He saw Doug telegraph what he was going to do a mile away, and he said under his breath, "Don't do it man."

Just as he said that Doug lunged at Brad, trying to catch him off guard. Five seconds later, Doug was on the ground semi-conscious. Brad, extremely efficient at dirty infighting from his combat training, hit Doug no less than a dozen times, reigning blows down on his chest, stomach, and neck. Doug never had a clue as to what hit him.

Brad knelt down and acted like he was checking on Doug. He touched Doug's temple and said, "Time for a little chat, you sorry piece of shit."

Doug had no idea what was happening, but suddenly he found himself sitting on his couch in his trailer, with duct tape wrapped around his hands and feet. A very intimidating Brad was standing in front of him, his arms crossed across his chest.

"Alright Doug, I only have a few minutes so I'm going to cut right to the chase. Don't lie to me. In fact you can't lie to me here. And don't try to hold anything back, because I can force you to talk if I have to."

"What is your son's name?"

"I ain't tellin you shit! What the fuck's goin on? How'd I get here? You better untie me you bastard or..."

"Or what Doug? Are you gonna hit me like you do your wife and son? I'm asking you one more time. What is your son's name?"

"Fuck you, you son of a bitch!"

"Alright Doug, I'm going to try and put this into some type of terms your dumb ass can understand. We're in your mind right now. Your body is lying unconscious on the floor of the food court at the Mall of Georgia, where I just kicked your redneck ass. While we are in your head, you can think of me just like Freddy Kruger. In this place I'm your worst nightmare, and I can pretty much do whatever I want to you. If I kill you here your body is going to die on the floor of the mall."

Doug just struggled against the tape, trying to break free.

Brad's anger at Doug was building. This stupid, ignorant, man, was a wife beater and child abuser, and he was too dumb to realize how much trouble he was in.

"Alright Doug, you asked for it." Brad opened up Doug's mind like he was peeling an onion. He did it harshly, on purpose, causing Doug a good deal of pain. He wasn't proud of that, but he was angry. He sifted through Doug's very unintelligent and unorganized mind. He saw all of the experiences through his childhood that led him to be the person he is. He saw Doug and Liz get married, and he saw the birth of Drew, his son. He saw the rage, and resentment, and the desire to feel powerful and in control. He saw Doug burning Drew with cigarettes, and beating his wife. He even broke Drew's leg when he was only two years old, and managed to lie his way out of it and fool Child and Family Services.

Doug screamed in pain as he felt Brad tear into his memories, and he was aware of everything that Brad saw. He was so terrified that he shit his pants. Unfortunately his body followed suit much to everyone's dismay around him in the food court.

Brad went ballistic when he saw the beatings and the burns and the broken leg. His face went beet red, and his whole body tensed and the veins started showing at his temples, neck, and arms. He grabbed Doug around the throat and started screaming , "YOU SON OF A BITCH! HE'S JUST A LITTLE BOY! WHAT THE FUCK WERE YOU THINKING?! TELL ME! TELL ME RIGHT NOW WHY I SHOULDN'T RIP YOUR MIND TO SHREDS AND LEAVE YOU A VEGETABLE FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE?!"

Doug was crying in fear and pain and started begging Brad, "Please man, don't kill me! I can change! I swear it! I promise! I'll do whatever you tell me, but don't hurt me!" Doug was sobbing and almost incoherent with fear.

Brad had seen and heard all this before, in Doug's memories. He would lose his temper and beat Liz or hurt Drew, and then promise to change... and he would until the next time he was drunk or in a bad mood, and then Drew would start making too much noise. Brad could see there was no way Doug would change his behavior.

Brad's voice was filled with contempt and he said, "You're a fuckin animal, Doug. You know and I know that you aren't going to change. You're too weak and lazy."

Brad leaned down and put his face just inches away from Doug's, who was crying like a baby, afraid that Brad was going to kill him. "So should I get out a blowtorch and burn you because you are crying? Like you burned Drew with your cigarettes when he made to much noise? How does it feel to be helpless and afraid Doug? To feel like you make your son feel? You're scared shitless right now, but as soon as you get Drew and Liz back home you'll make this their fault and take it out on them. You can't hide it from me, Doug. I'm inside your head remember?"

Brad was having a hard time keeping his anger in check. Once he really dug deep and saw what kind of person Doug was, he wasn't sure what to do. He could rip out the bad memories that made Doug this way, but that would change him too much and be too hard to explain, and there was no way to tell what type of person he would turn into. He could literally kill him, which would be the easiest choice and probably the best for everyone involved, especially Drew, but that wasn't an option, or at least one that he could consider right now. No, the only thing a man like Doug understands is fear and control.

"Ok Doug, here's what's going to happen. You are probably going to jail. In fact I'm going to make sure of it. You are never going to see Drew again. EVER. You can communicate with Liz, but you will never go near her person again. EVER. When you get out of jail, you are going to make it your life's work to make theirs better. You will get a job and send them money. You will put Drew through college if he wants to go. You will pay their rent. I don't care how miserable your life becomes; you are going to make it up to them. And you will never get married or have any more children. If you ever hit another woman or abuse another child, I will know about it and I will hunt you down and I will flay your fuckin brain inside out and leave you a mindless corpse. Do you understand me?"

Doug was shaking so hard and still crying all he could do what nod his head yes.

"I'm so glad we were able to have this little chat, Doug. I'm going to knock you out now; painfully."

There was no outward sign of what happened to Doug, other than he passed out with a grunt, and crapped in his pants as he did so. Brad looked up and saw Ken with Liz, who was holding Drew.

One of the mall cops moved over to keep everyone away from Doug, and told him, "Gwinnett PD is on their way. You need to stay put until they get here for a statement."

Brad nodded to him and went over to where Ken was standing with Liz and Drew. Drew was still crying. Brad looked at Liz and asked her, "Are you ok?"

Liz's voice was shaky and she started to cry as she said, "Thank you, but you have no idea what you just did. He's going to be so mad when he wakes up."

"Liz, it's going to be ok. He's not going to hurt you or Drew ever again. I know you may not believe it now. I'll have to talk with you about it later, but believe me everything is going to be fine."

Not wanting her to ask any questions right now, Brad gave her his most disarming smile and asked, "So how's your little Iron Man doing?"

"He's settled down a little, but I can't get him to stop crying."

Brad sent a thought to Ken, Hey bro could you do me a huge favor? The Disney Store is right around the corner on this level. When we walked by earlier they had Iron Man hoodies for kids. Could you go get one? Size 3 in Little Boys.

Are you gonna tell me what's going on? What the hell did you to do him Brad? I saw you kick his ass but that doesn't make a guy crap his pants.

I'll show you everything later. I was harsh, I won't deny it, but hopefully you'll understand and agree with me once you see it all.

Alright bro, you know I trust you; one Iron Man hoodie coming up.

Ken motioned for one of the mall cops to come over and quietly told him where he was going out of earshot of Liz and Drew.

"Liz, if you don't mind, could I hold Drew for a minute? Maybe I can get him to stop crying. I know I'm a stranger, but I'd like to try."

Liz looked at Drew, and asked him, "Drew, do you mind if this nice man holds you for a minute? You are such a big boy and you're getting heavy and mommy needs a rest."

Brad wasn't used to being around kids, and after all the abuse this little boy had been through, Brad was afraid of hurting him more.

Drew seemed ambivalent to the exchange and didn't put up a fuss when Brad took ahold of him. Brad cradled him gently, one arm under his butt to hold him up and one around his back. He gently rubbed Drew's back, hoping it would help calm him down and talked soothingly, "Hey Drew. My name's Brad. That sure is a nice Iron Man shirt you got there. Did your mommy get it for you?"

Drew put his head down against Brad's chest and put his arms up as far around his thick neck as he could. His nod was barely discernible but he didn't say anything.

Brad closed his eyes and sent gentle, soothing thoughts of comfort and safety into Drew's young mind. In seconds, Drew stopped crying. He wasn't sleepy; he was just content to let Brad hold him. For the first time that day, and probably for far longer, he felt safe.

Liz sniffed and wiped her eyes with her sleeve. She was amazed when Drew stopped crying and said, "He must really like you. He's not usually too warm to strangers."

Brad just said, "I think he knows I'm a friend. Don't you buddy?"

While Brad was working on calming Drew down, the Gwinnett Police showed up and started taking statements. Brad and Ken were in luck, because one of the officers worked with them on a regular basis as extra security at Wild Bill's down in Duluth. While the cops were taking statements, Ken came back and had a Disney Store bag in hand.

Brad said,"Hey Drew! Look here buddy, I got somethin for ya. Check this out little man!"

As soon as Ken pulled the hoodie out of the bag, Drew perked up. It definitely caught his attention. "Wow! You'll look even more like Iron Man wearing this! Do you want to put it on?"

His little cheeks were still bright red and tear streaked, but Drew was actually smiling, and he nodded his head yes.

Brad set Drew on the floor and knelt down so they were at eye level. "Here buddy it's really hot outside today, so let's take off this t-shirt before we put this on ok?" Drew raised his arms and before Liz realized what he was doing, Brad had his t-shirt up and off.

Ken went white with anger when he saw all the burn scars and the bruises. The cops saw it too. Brad quickly put the hoodie on Drew and picked him back up. Liz started crying quietly again. Brad told her, "Liz, don't worry."

The cop they knew told them "You know we have to call a case worker on this."

Brad said, "I know Frank, but Liz here is a good mom. That Fu..." Brad stopped himself from cussing in front of Drew, "guy over there is responsible."

It didn't take long before someone from Child Services showed up. While they were interviewing Liz, Drew was getting a little restless.

"Hey Drew I want you to meet my friend, Ken."

Ken held out his hand and Drew tentatively took it. "Pleased to meet you little man."

"Drew can I tell you a secret?" Drew still wasn't talking, but he nodded his head yes.

Brad motioned for Ken to come closer, and he whispered into Drew's ear, "Can you keep a secret?" Drew nodded his head, his eyes big and solemn.

"Ken is really Iron Man, but we have to keep his secret. He's here to keep you and your mom safe."

Ken looked at Brad like he was crazy. "B? What are you doing man?"

Drew got a frown on his face and let out a, "uh uh."

"Yeah, Drew he really is and I can prove it to you. He's wearing his armor underneath his clothes. But he doesn't want anyone here to know who he is. Do you believe me?"

Drew shook his head no.

"Ok buddy, here's what I want you to do. I want you to stick your finger out and poke him really hard right on his chest and you'll feel the armor under his shirt. Here, watch this."

Brad stuck out his finger and poked Ken hard on his upper chest, and then shook his hand and said, "Ow! That hurt! "

Ken caught on and was ready for Drew's finger to poke him. Drew had a look on his face like he knew they were lying to him, but he stuck his little finger out and poked hard. Ken tensed, and to Drew it did feel hard as steel. His eyes went wide and he looked at Brad,"See Drew I told you! But we have to keep it a secret ok?"

Drew whispered in Brad's ear, "Ok." The rest of the time Drew couldn't keep his eyes off Ken.

After the police were finished and Doug was hauled away to jail, Brad pulled Liz off to the side. Ken was holding Drew, who kept poking him in the chest and giggling.

"Liz, I know this is all a surprise, but I want to let you know again that everything is going to be ok. I can't explain right now, and I might never be able too, but Doug is out of your life as of today. You will hear from him at some point but he will never see you in person ever again. When he gets out of jail he will start sending you money. My concern is how Drew is going to do through all of this; you know he's going to have issues to deal with."

Liz's eyes were still red from crying all afternoon, but she managed a "Thank you Mr. Wilson. I can't thank you enough. I really don't understand any of this. I was so scared for Drew, and me. I've tried to leave Doug before and it ended up with Drew getting hurt."

"Well he can't hurt you anymore. I'll make sure of that. And when things settle down, I'd like you to get in touch with me. I know this great doctor who can help Drew. There won't be any charge so don't worry about money. I'd hate for Drew to grow into someone like Doug, but after what he's been through, you know it's a possibility."

"I know. I hope he's young enough to get past this. I'll give you a call about that doctor if you will answer one question."

"What's that?"

"Why did you do this? I mean why did you get involved and how did you know what was going on?"

"All I can tell you Liz is that I heard Drew cry. I heard him through all these people and all the noise, and I knew he needed my help. I know that sounds crazy, but it's the only answer I have."

"Well, angels come in all shapes and sizes."

Brad gave her his most handsome, charming smile and said, "I think I'm more like a knight in shining armor than an angel. That's a little manlier image."

"Thanks again, Brad; for everything." She got up on her tip toes and kissed his cheek.

There was a PF Chang's in the Mall, so they picked up some food to go; they both really wanted to get home. Brad was quiet, and Ken left him alone, except for holding his hand on the drive home. Their link was up but Ken didn't pry, he just made sure Brad felt his love and support.

They got home, parked the car in the garage, went inside, and activated the security protocols. As always Ken felt better when he heard and felt the security system kick in. Brad was still quiet, and Ken knew something was bothering him, but he didn't push or try to 'peek'knowing Brad would share everything with him soon enough.

They were both starving, so Ken got the food unpacked while Brad put out the plates, and they had dinner together. Ken was a master at small talk, and kept the conversation lite and unobtrusive.

After dinner the phone rang, and Ken picked up it. It was Lane, checking in to see how things were going. While Ken was talking, Brad started clearing off the table and rinsing off the dishes. He took off his new shirt, so he wouldn't splash any soapy water on it.

Ken was pacing around the den, talking with Lane, and expertly dodging the seriousness of the day. He promised that they would get together with him and Bryan in the next few nights and then hung up. Ken put the phone back on the charger, and then stopped to stare at Brad; watching his thick back muscles flex and stretch under his skin as he rinsed the dishes and put them into the dishwasher.

Brad noticed the silence after Ken hung up the phone and glanced over his shoulder to see Ken sitting on the back of the couch staring at him. He had his arms crossed over his chest and his legs out and crossed at the ankles.

Brad froze in mid motion as he was reaching down to close the dishwasher and stared back. After an awkward silence of a few seconds, Brad said, "What?"

Ken said in a low voice, "I can't tell you how hot I am for you right now, B. Come here."

Brad moved over and Ken spread his legs wide but stayed perched on the back of the couch. He pulled Brad close and pressed his face against Brad's chest, reaching his arms around Brad's back and holding him tight. Brad put his arms around Ken's head and shoulders and hugged him back squeezing Ken's face against him.

"It's been a long day, B; and not an easy one for you. I want you to share with me what happened, but first I want to take care of you. I want to de-stress you. I want you to feel how much I love you. And I want to feel you getting off either in my hand, my mouth, or my ass, at least a few times. Like NOW."

Brad chuckled, kissed Ken on the top of his head, and said, "Damn, Ken, when did you learn foreplay?"

Ken took Brad by the hand and led him back to their bedroom. Lifting up Brad's hand and kissing it he said, "mmmmm the fresh taste of Dawn dishwashing liquid. Take your shorts off and lay down on the bed."

Brad dropped his shorts and crawled over to the middle of the bed and got on his back. Ken stripped off his shirt and shorts and moved over to the bed. He got on top, straddling Brad's waist, and intertwined his fingers with both of Brad's hands, pushing his arms up over his head. Ken loved having Brad's awesome physique stretched out, his arms over his head and his chest bare and defenseless. Brad was instantly hard, and Ken could feel his erection pushing against him.

Ken leaned forward and started rubbing his chest against Brad's. Ken's skin was so warm and soft over the rock hard muscle it felt amazing. His dick was rock hard and he let it rub against the ridges in Brad's stomach while he rocked his body slowly back and forth.

Ken put his head down and started eating out Brad's left armpit. He went slow and gave Brad a real tongue bath. Brad was moaning softly with the pleasure. After a while Ken moved over, kissing Brad's thick neck and upper chest while he made his way across to the other armpit. While he was using his tongue he made sure to rub his stubble covered chin and cheeks against Brad wherever he could.

Ken continued his licking, and starting moving down a little so he could cover every square inch of Brad's chest and nipples. As he moved further down Brad's body he started rubbing their dicks together. Both of them were leaking precum like mad and they quickly had a nice slick action going.

Brad couldn't stand not touching Ken anymore, and started roaming his hands over Ken's chest, shoulders, and arms, loving the tension in his muscles from holding his body up.

Ken moved down until he was between Brad's knees, and leaned up to hold both their hard dicks in his hand and started jacking them slowly at the same time. Brad started thrusting his hips to match the motion of Ken's hand.

Brad loved getting jacked off my Ken. He had the most amazing hands, and the fact that they were Ken's hands made it feel that much better.

"God, B, I love the feel of your hard dick in my hand. It's amazing bro. You're amazing, and you deserve more than I can ever possibly give you."

Ken reached down with his other hand and started fingering Brad's tight hole, while he continued to jack them off. Ken worked his finger in until he found Brad's prostate and started gently rubbing it. This sent Brad crazy with lust and he started grinding his ass back into one hand and thrusting his hard dick into the other. Ken was getting off watching Brad's body twist and writhe in pleasure, flexing his chest and arms out and contracting his abs with every thrust.

"Fuck yeah B, work it up bro. I love it when you get all pumped and sweaty for me. I wanna feel this hard dick of yours squirting."

Brad was so into the sensations he was feeling he couldn't talk. He was getting really close, and Ken read the signs of his imminent orgasm as he continued to stroke his lover. Just as Brad was at the point of no return, Ken leaned over and took the head of Brad's dick into his mouth and started swirling his tongue all over the head and jacking Brad's dick with a tight grip, and he started fluttering his finger over Brad's prostate.

"Oh, Oh, OH, fuck Ken, I'm cumin! Uhhhhhh!"

Ken continued to stroke Brad through his orgasm, and swallowed his entire load, and kept licking the head until he knew Brad was finished. He crawled back up on top of Brad, holding most of his weight up, but pressing as much of his body down against Brad as he could. Brad wrapped his big arms around Ken's back and his legs around Ken's waist and squeezed their bodies together. He was breathing heavy and Ken started giving him kisses all over his forehead, nose, cheeks, finally stopping at his mouth for a long passionate kiss. Ken began grinding his hard, dripping dick against Brad's abs and in less than a minute he started shooting hot strings of cum between their stomachs. When he was done shooting, he rolled them over so Brad was on top and let his hands roam over Brad's back and shoulders while they kissed.

They continued to cuddle, and enjoy each other's bodies for a few minutes, and then Ken whispered into Brad's ear, "That was one." He raised his head up slightly so they could make eye contact. They both just stared at each other, their eyes roaming over each other's face.

After a minute Ken broke the silence, "You know what B?"

Brad let out a lazy and very relaxed, "What?"

"I love you bro."

"Yeah I know."

"Huh?"

Brad grinned and said, "Ken you need to use more syllables man, I can't understand you."

"Dude, don't you know what the proper response is when someone says 'I love you bro?'"

"Yeah but you're a douche."

Ken chuckled under his breath and asked,"What the fuck does me being a douche have to do with you not using the proper designated response to 'I love you bro.'"

Brad's grin got bigger and he said, "Nothin. I just wanted to piss you off."

"Are you ever gonna grow up?"

Ken reached down and started fondling Brad's semi hard dick and said, "Speakin of growin...how do you want the next one?"

"Hmmmm you know what I really want?"

"What?"

"I want you to plow my ass til we both shoot, so I can get really charged up, and then I want you to continue to plow my ass as hard as you can while I try to pinch your dick off with my ass. I want to see every muscle in your body pumped and dripping sweat all over me. I want to see veins popping. I want every ounce of your weight down on top of me and I want you to squeeze me so hard I can't breathe."

"But I want this to be about you getting off not me."

"Ken the last time you did that to me, do you remember the word I used to describe it? Think hard because it has more than one syllable."

"Fuck you asshole."

Brad laughed and said, "Now you're getting it!"

"The word, Mr. Habbersham, was EPIC. When you get that way it drives me over the edge. Believe me this is not just about you... I have a selfish interest in wanting it. I want you to know how much I get off on you when you get like that. When you start this I want you to turn on that physical thing you do with us."

"Alright, Mr. Wilson." As Brad was talking, Ken was getting more and more turned on by the thought of what he wanted to do. Both their eyes flashed nearly white for a brief second and Ken got a devilish grin on his handsome face.

Ken turned Brad over on the bed and stared at Brad's big frame, full of muscle, waiting for him to get on top. He started rubbing Brad's back firmly and then got down and pulled his legs apart, spread his ass cheeks, and started eating him out.

As good as it felt, Brad was getting impatient, and started pushing back hard against Ken's tongue. Ken was enjoying the sensations in his own ass as he ate out Brad.

"Damn, B. You are a hungry fucker tonight."

"Just shut up and put your dick where your mouth is."

"Alright, B, you asked for it."

Ken moved his body up and forward so he was mounted over Brad in just the right position. He put the head of his hard dick against Brad's wet tight hole, and slowly shoved it in up to the hilt. Brad said he wanted them both to come quick for the first one and he took Brad at his word. He hit Brad's ass hard and fast. Brad was already starting to sweat heavily, and Ken leaned down and started rubbing his hard chest against Brad's heavily muscled back. He held himself up with one arm and he wrapped his other arm around Brad's abs and pulled their bodies together hard with every thrust. The sharing of their physical sensations, and the intensity that Ken was putting into getting them both off quickly, made for a short fused orgasm. Just as Ken flooded Brad's ass with his cum, he grabbed Brad's hard dick and started stroking him as he shot rope after rope of cum across his abs.

Immediately Brad felt the surge of energy through his body. Waiting until Ken almost pulled out of him, with just the head still in, Brad clamped down with all his new strength on the head of Ken's dick. It was like a hot, moist, vice-grip, on the sensitive head of his dick. Ken couldn't help but let out an, "Ohhhhh fuck!" as the sudden intense sensation on the head of his cock caused his whole body to spasm.

Brad's ass wouldn't let go of Ken's dick, and he tried his best to keep clenching and grinding his ass to suck Ken's cock all the way back up to the hilt. "Holy shit, B, I think my dick just got an ass whooping!"

"That's nothing compared to what's comin next stud. Let me turn over and let's amp things up a bit."

Ken pulled out long enough for Brad to twist around and was immediately back inside his lover. Brad looked him in the eye and said, "Ok buddy, let's see who can make the other shoot first."

Ken put on his sexiest grin and said, "I am gonna pound your ass to mush, B, and drain those big balls of yours dry."

Brad smiled back and said, "Give it your best shot tough stuff."

With that they went at each other with everything they had. Both bodies were pumped up, and in seconds veins started showing all over them. Brad loved seeing the veins in Ken's shoulders, arms, and across his chest when he was really pumped up. Ken started to sweat, and they were both breathing hard. True to his word, Ken cut loose completely, just like Brad wanted. He pounded hard and squeezed Brad with all his strength and it drove them both crazy.

Ken widened his legs a little and leaned forward so Brad's hard dick was gliding along the center ridge of his abs while he pounded mercilessly on Brad's prostate, sweat flying off their bodies with every smack of their hips together. Brad was clenching Ken's dick, and grinding his ass in circles, trying to milk the cum out of his lover. Brad reached up between them and palmed Ken's big chest, covering his chest with fingers splayed out and started digging his fingers into the hard muscle, making sure to grind Ken's nipples with every squeeze.

The two men locked eyes, while they battled each other with their bodies. They were both trying to hold back to make it last longer, but both trying to drive the other one over the edge to orgasm, and both were feeling all the sensations of the other. After about twenty minutes, Brad changed tactics and started punching and kneading Ken's hard chest and rubbing his nipples harder with his hands. Brad knew he had Ken after a few minutes because Ken broke their eye contact and threw his head back with a groan. If possible his whole body flexed harder, and his muscles went from concrete to steel. Ken shot first, and with every spurt out of Ken's dick he squeezed Ken's chest hard. Ken's orgasm took over his body and he fell on top of Brad. Brad pulled Ken's huge chest down against his own, and wrapped his arms around Ken's back and squeezed their sweat drenched bodies together. Ken had his face pressed down against Brads, cheek to cheek, and Brad could feel his hot breath coming in gasps of pleasure, with little, "oh fuck's" repeated with every breath. Brad continued to squeeze and milk Ken's thick eight inches through his orgasm. Seeing Ken pushed over the edge, and knowing that he was responsible, sent Brad over the edge and even as he was pulling Ken down against him he started shooting hot ropes of cum between their stomachs.

Ken's orgasm was so intense all he could do was lay on top of Brad, letting himself be held tight while his lover rubbed and caressed his big sweaty, muscular body. Brad kept on squeezing his ass, and he had his legs wrapped around Ken's waist pulling him harder and tighter against him. The feel of their sweaty bodies sent Brad into his own state of bliss, as he just lay there comforting his lover. It was almost twenty minutes before Ken rolled off onto his back. Brad rolled over with him and lay his head on Ken's chest, wanting to feel and hear Ken's heartbeat. He kept gently stroking Ken's body wherever his hands could reach. Ken put one hand behind his head and he had his other arm wrapped around Brad, hugging him hard and tight, almost desperately, like he never wanted to let go.

After a few minutes, Brad got up on one elbow, and with his other hand he started gently brushing the hair back off Ken's forehead. Ken's green eyes were bright and a little teary.

He finally broke the silence, "B, I said it before, but it scares the shit out of me how much I love you; how much you mean to me. I can so lose myself in you bro; how much better we are together after everything that's happened. It baffles me how you can feel the same way about me. I so don't deserve you, B, but I'm so grateful to be with you."

"You totally deserve me Ken; never doubt that. I'm the one who feels like he got the better end of the deal. We deserve each other, and we both know it. We can't stay merged all the time, and to be honest I don't think we should, but for times like this, it reminds our hearts how much we love each other when our minds start to forget while we are apart. And just for the record, I'm grateful to be with you too. I can't imagine life without your ugly mug in my life."

Ken was totally relaxed, and was enjoying Brad's roaming hands. He lazily said, "So am I ugly, or am I a douche, cause I can't possibly be both."

"You're the most handsome, courageous, studly, ugly, douche in the world. And you're all mine."

"Speakin of ugly douche's, why don't you share what happened today? I wanna get the whole picture."

Ken opened his mind and Brad slipped in. For a few minutes they stayed together in silence, amazed again at how much they loved each other, and how beautiful it was to be together with no barriers between them.

Brad took Ken back to earlier in the day and led him through the events. Ken's anger flared again when he saw the memories of how Doug had hurt Drew so much; how he terrified his wife and son. Ken had seen the burn marks as scars on the boy and it upset him, but to see the fresh memories and relive it made him furious.

It only took a few seconds for Brad to share everything with Ken. When they broke apart, and each went back to his own body, Ken was breathing hard from anger.

That muther fuckin son of a bitch!

Yeah, but Ken, it scared me how close I came to destroying his mind. I could have done it so easily, and the world would probably be a better place if I had.

I wouldn't have blamed you if you did B, but I'm really proud of you for not doin it. I know the doc didn't make us this way to be killers. When we ran missions it was different... that was a part of being in the military. But the doc knew that was only temporary, and even though we could kill off piece of shit dirtbags like him, I don't think we should.

I'm glad you said that, Ken.

B?

Yeah?

If you're Freddy Kruger, can I be Jason X?

Brad couldn't help but laugh. They both lay quiet after that. Ken rolled over on his side and pulled Brad close against him. With one arm under his head and the other wrapped around the man he loved most in the world, Ken drifted off to sleep. Brad was in his favorite spot, naked and being spooned by Ken. The place he felt the safest and most loved. He fell asleep feeling Ken's steady heartbeat and warm breath on his neck, and holding onto the arm Ken had draped over him.

The next few weeks were nice and peaceful. Ken and Brad went back to work and the entire Team went back to their normal routines. The only rule the doctor still insisted they keep was always to travel with someone, preferably with their partners.

Since their workout schedules were so extreme, the doctor modified the gym at the lab so Brad and the other Mentalists, as they now liked to call themselves, would have everything they needed to work out alongside Ken and the stronger guys. This saved them all a huge amount of time, and the guys liked it much better.

The doctor started holding regular counseling sessions with all of the couples about their new developing abilities. By now all of them had successfully tried the basic physical connection that Ken and Brad discovered, and Land and Bryan and completely merged. After what Brad did to try and save Ken, and what Lane was able to do, the other partners were starting to experiment, and the doctor needed to set some guidelines. As far as 'merging' with anyone else outside of their partners, the doctor would leave it up to the individuals. He warned them that it could cause any number of problems between them if they didn't approach it in a mature manner.

Over time, Brad started to notice a change in his and Ken's attitude towards normals. It was happening gradually, but now that he thought about it consciously, he could see a pattern developing. They were both starting to go out less, and in general disliked dealing with most people, except for the doc and the rest of the team. Except for the necessities of grocery shopping and work, they stopped going out to movies or out drinking with the guys. He brought it up with Ken, they both wanted to talk to the doctor about it at their next session.

It turned out that their next session was delayed until later in the afternoon, close to dinner time, so they picked up dinner for the doctor and themselves on the way over; no one else was scheduled to be in the lab at that time, so they could all eat in the kitchen area and have the place practically to themselves. It still baffled Ken and Brad how the doctor could eat such greasy fried food and stay looking as good as he did.

Just as they were sitting down to eat, the doctor, perceptive as always, asked them, "So I think you both have something specific to talk about this evening."

Brad said, "Yeah doc, we talked about this last night and it's something that's been happening slowly over the last few months. It's been so gradual I didn't notice it at first, but I can see it becoming a real problem if we don't nip it in the bud."

"And what is this problem?"

"Well sir.... from the first time Ken and I merged, our lives together have been better than ever. Neither one of us ever thought we could be closer than we were before all this started, but when we're truly together, without all the lies and prejudices and pettiness, we realize, and wonder, how we ever really made it. It's amazing how blind we were, all the while thinking we were blissfully happy. Now we can hardly imagine not being together like we are, which leads me to our current conundrum."

"I've noticed that both of us want to be out with people less and less. Ken is starting to pick up, for lack of a better word, an echo from me of what is going on around us. When we're apart it's not so bad for him. It's really strong when we're touching or holding hands. All of those things we shed in our relationship, the lies, etc. are distasteful and sometimes even painful to be around. We're startin to not want to be around anyone else. It's fine with you and the other guys. We still haven't taken the full plunge with anyone else yet, although we'd like to try it with Bryan and Lane first. Mental communication isn't the same as merging but you still can't lie that way and it's brought our friendship with them to a much closer level than we were before. I'll be glad when we can be at that place with the rest of the Team. We're confident that it won't be a problem long term, even if there are some bumps along the way."

"I want to be clear that we aren't approaching this from any sense of ego, or superiority over normal people. It's just getting harder and harder to be around them, and seeing how the world works; how fragile things are between people and how the world really does run on deception."

Brad had been doing all the talking up to this point, and the doctor looked over at Ken with a questioning look on his face. Ken replied with a grin,"What he said doc. Like B said, we talked it over while we were together last night. I'm still gettin used to the idea of a few hours of conversation only takin a minute or two. But yeah, basically I think we have a purpose in this world that still isn't clear, and we're concerned that we won't be able to accomplish whatever that purpose ends up bein, if we can't be out in the world."

The doctor leaned back in his chair and wiped his mouth off with a napkin, still chewing and thinking. After a short pause he said, "As always, you two are my star pupils. It was my intention to bring this matter up with you soon enough, but I am glad that you have recognized the danger on your own. I have always known that your development would reach this level, but honestly I did not expect it for a number of years yet. It does present a problem for you."

An idea that had been floating around in the back of Ken's mind for a while suddenly popped to the surface and he asked, "Doc how did you learn to deal with it?" Brad almost spit out the mouthful of water he just took from his glass.

The doctor didn't bat an eye or react as Ken hoped he would and asked, "My boy, whatever do you mean?"

Ken grinned and said, "Oh come on doc, I think you know exactly what I mean. But I'm guessin you aren't 'permitted' to talk about it. So let me throw a few ideas out for you. We've often wondered how you know so much about, like, everything. There isn't a field of science or medicine or philosophy that you aren't top man on the planet in. I don't think you are like us", Ken pointed to Brad and himself, "but you are something different. I don't think I'd be surprised at anything you might be able to do. If you are supposed to be our guide, that means you must have some experience with all of this stuff."

"I'm not gonna push you on this doc. I think that would be a bad idea for everybody, and I don't want to cause you any grief or complications. I just want you to know that I feel we need you more than ever, and we love you and support you like a father. But we do need to know how to cope with this new part of our development and I think you figured out how to do that out a long long time ago."

Much to Ken's surprise, the doctor seemed to shrink down into himself as Ken was talking. A single tear fell down his cheek and he had to take off his glasses and wipe his eyes.

Ken was shocked, and Brad could feel his panic at the doc's reaction. Ken jumped out of his chair and moved over, taking the doctor's hand in his own. Brad was right there with him.

"Doc I'm so sorry, sir. Just forget what I said. It's not important."

The doctor was quiet for another minute while he got himself under control. His voice was almost a whisper when he replied, "On the contrary, Kenneth it is extremely important. There is so much I wish to tell you that I cannot. Not yet anyways. It breaks my heart to have to keep anything from you but I have no choice. I love you like my own sons, and I am so proud of you."

Brad said, "Sir I'm sorry too. We don't mean to cause you any pain."

"Non-sense Bradford, it is neither you nor Kenneth that is causing me pain."

"With all due respect sir, I think I'm starting to understand even more. I know you aren't like us, but we are modeled after you, at least in a way. You have a partner somewhere that you used to be able to share things with. Just us talkin about this is reminding you of what you no longer have. Doc, would you like to share just a small part of yourself with us that way? I know you have things you can't show us, but would you find it a comfort to communicate again in that way with us?"

Tears starting leaking out of the corner of the doctor's eyes, and he wasn't able to speak. He squeezed Ken's hand and he reached out and put his other hand on Brad's shoulder. Brad felt the opening and he gently took Ken and himself, and entered the doctor's mind.

I am not sure this is a good idea Bradford. I would never have presumed to ask; in fact I am not allowed to, but since you offered I must admit to a moment of weakness. Thank you, both of you, for this. It will make things easier in so many ways.

Brad and Ken were almost overwhelmed inside the doctor's mind. They could feel his intellect, and strength, far superior to their own. They had a sense of light, and strength of character, and deep sadness.

You are correct in that I do have a partner, my boy. He is still alive, but we have not been together for many many years. We are both paying the price for a transgression we made years ago. It is our hope that one day we will be together again. In the meantime, I am here with you, to guide and prepare you, and love you.

Brad and Ken both felt his sorrow when he spoke of his partner. The loneliness he must feel every day! It was humbling to think that all these years he's been with them he's had someone he cares about more than life itself and not been allowed to be with him.

Doc, how can you stand it?

At first it was unbearable. But over time the pain lessens, and I have our memories together. I have proof, recently that he is still alive and well, which gives me hope that we will one day again be together. And do not for one second think that being with you two, or any of the others, brings me pain. You and the others are what make my life bearable! Never, ever, think otherwise my boy.

So doc, what does make it bearable; your situation and ours? How do you cope with the world? How did you cope with us before all of this? Sir, I can't imagine how difficult we must have been to deal with, especially this Bradford yahoo.

They both felt the humor coming from the doctor at Ken's comment.

The answer, Kenneth, is both extremely simple, and very profound. It is simple to say, but very, very difficult to follow. The answer, my boy is love; unconditional love. I know it sounds simple, and probably foolish, but you need to remember that you were once as theyare, and realize what they can be. Never think of yourself as above them. We should never judge them.

Ken brought up the man, Doug, at the Mall of Georgia who brutalized his wife and child, Doc what about Doug and what he did to Drew? How can I love someone like that?

I never said it would be easy, but Bradford saw in that man's memories the events that led him to that point. He did not have to be that man, and could still choose not to be that man. Sometimes life takes people to a point where they can no longer change, but it is very rare. Think of the first time the two of you merged, and how painful it was, even as it was joyous. Even with the benefit of seeing each other's soul laid bare before the other, you still had to forgive one another for transgressions neither realized you had even committed against the other. You never realized how much you hurt one another other even at the time you felt you were totally and completely in love. You must never forget what that was like, because that is how everyone else you meet exists. One day, perhaps, the world will be for everyone as it is for us.

I cannot tell you more yet other than it will be our jobs to make sure that they have that chance.

Ken and Brad were quiet on the drive back to the house. Brad drove and Ken reached over and grabbed his hand and just held it, gently playing with his fingers while they drove in silence.

When they got home and went in to the kitchen and activated the security protocols, Ken let out a heavy, "Aye Karamba."

"You can say that again. I'd say we have our emotional work cut out for us bro. What the doc said is definitely easier said than done."

Ken was in the den and looked over at Brad who was still in the kitchen and said, "Hey B, come over here a sec."

Brad moved over to where Ken was standing, and as soon as he was within arm's reach Ken brought him into a firm full body hug, and gave Brad a quick kiss on his neck before putting his chin on Brad's shoulder. Brad instinctively reached around Ken, hugging him back and nestling his chin in the crook of Ken's heavy shoulder and neck. They could feel each other's warm breath on their necks. Brad squeezed tighter, lightly rubbing one hand up and down Ken's back.

Neither man said anything. They were content to just feel each other and soak up the physical connection. After a few minutes, Ken pulled back just enough to untuck Brad's t-shirt from his jeans and lift his shirt up. Brad lifted his arms up and Ken got to see what he wanted... Brad's wide lats flare out and his heavy pecs come back down when he lowered his arms. Brad returned the favor, taking in the sight of Ken's amazing physique. Ken brought them back together, so they could feel their skin touching. They resumed their hug, both with their eyes closed, their heads resting on each other's shoulders, relishing the closeness and the comfort of their bodies pressed together and their minds touching.

They stayed that way, slightly swaying like they were slow dancing, for almost twenty minutes. They were both hard but neither one wanted the feeling to end. Eventually Brad broke the embrace and took Ken by the hand and led him down the hallway to their bedroom. Neither one of them said a word, as they each finished undressing the other. Once they were both naked, they lay down on the bed facing one another. Ken leaned forward and started the kiss. The passion had been building between them since they started the hug in the den, but instead of the normal frenzied love making that usually followed, this was more like a bonfire that started with kindling in the den and they were slowly adding wood and building up the heat.

They weren't deeply merged, but their awareness of one another was in full effect. Ken hadn't started the physical bond yet, not wanting to push things along too quickly. They both thought at the same time...

Ken I want you to make love to me.

B, I want to make love to you so bad.

As usual, they smiled at each other and laughed softly when they had the same thought at the same time. Brad merged them then, so they could feel the love they had for one another, with no barriers, no secrets, just total honestly. The respect and love they had for one another, the pride, the joy they shared in one another, all fueled the touches and kisses, and the caresses between them. It would have been easy to get lost in the depths of one another, but they both managed to stay just on the edge, each wanting to bring the utmost pleasure to the other in an act of pure physical love.

After what seemed like forever, with both of them leaking precum like a sieve, Ken gently pushed Brad's legs up and apart and entered him. Ken could feel Brad's amazing body, hot with lust, grab onto his own. Brad's ankles locked around Ken's waist and his arms wrapped around Ken's heavy shoulders, as Ken slowly stroked his thick eight inches in and out of his lover.

In all the time they have been together, neither one of them had ever felt the intensity of emotion that they were experiencing right now. Their physical lovemaking was always great, but their connection was so deep between their minds and bodies this time, that the pleasure was almost unbearable. Ken kept his forehead pressed against Brad's; their arms were wrapped around one another, and they were kissing the entire time. After an hour, they were both drenched in sweat.

Ken muttered the first words in over two hours. His body shaking and trembling in pleasure, he whispered in Brad's ear, "Oh god, B I can't hold off any longer man."

Brad didn't say anything and just squeezed his body harder against Ken's, clenching and rotating his ass around Ken's thrusting hardness. They both exploded at the same time and stopped all movement; their bodies taught, every muscle flexed, holding each other tight as they both shot volley after volley of cum, Ken into Brad and Brad between their bodies. Brad felt the rush as Ken's cum flooded his insides. Ken felt it through their link and when he knew it was safe he hugged Brad as tight as he could with his arms and legs. It was the most intense, long lasting, emotional orgasm either man had ever had in his entire life. Both of them were carried away on the waves of pleasure and emotion and other than some small moans and heavy breathing, they were unable to talk.

It was nearly half an hour before they broke apart. Ken rolled off to the side and pulled Brad back up against him, wrapping one arm over him with a hand on his chest pulling him back snugly against his body, and one leg thrown over, so Brad's body was wrapped up by his. Brad intertwined his fingers with Ken's hand against his chest and he put his other arm up under the pillow to support his head. Ken was still semi hard and had his erection pressed against the small of Brad's back, and he kept kissing his way with little pecks across Brad's shoulders and the back of his neck.

They both fell asleep after a few minutes, their minds one. Neither man had ever felt so content and at peace with themselves and each other.
