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Stories posted in this category are works of fiction. Names, places, characters, events, and incidents are created by the authors' imaginations or are used fictitiously. Any resemblances to actual persons (living or dead), organizations, companies, events, or locales are entirely coincidental.
Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you. 

Morningstar: The Malaise - 11. Chapter 11 Dangerous Territory

Do no harm...

Morningstar: The Malaise

 

 

Chapter 11

 

 

“Boy, you guys were quick. Come on in. It’s just Adelin and me here… I’ve sent everyone else home.” Tilly was doing her best to sound as if life was normal, and that she was fine, but Kellar wasn’t fooled. The girl was in bad shape, something her dull array verified. He noticed a trembling indicative of exhaustion going on, and was tempted to make the offer to look after her first. Ten minutes of healing energy might do her some good, but he refrained from suggesting it. He doubted she’d accept help when her sister was so ill.

Tobyn’s chest brushed against his back as he entered through the doorway behind him, and Keller’s body responded to the brief touch. He could feel the heat rise up his neck. Is this the way it would always be?

Moving forward, and pushing aside the rush of mixed emotions, he took the opportunity to compare the man’s colors to Tilly’s. Yesterday, when Kellar first laid eyes on him, it would have been a closer match, but today, the difference was startling. His now vibrant aura had steadily strengthened since his healing.

“Can I get you anything to… like help or…?” The lost expression on Tilly’s face took his attention away from the blond man. She shouldn’t even be standing, let alone playing hostess.

Kellar touched the agitated girl’s arm, cautiously sending a trickle of healing energy to see what would happen, and was rewarded when he saw almost instant calming. He watched her tense shoulders drop down into their natural position, and was pleased to see this aspect of his healing work on a shifter other than Tobyn. “No, but thanks, Tilly. There’s nothing we need at the moment. If you could just introduce me to Adelin, I’ll see where we’re at. Don’t worry, okay? I should be able to do something for her.”

“I feel so much better now that you guys are here.” She was becoming more relaxed, and maybe a little confused by it, if her fleeting frown was any indication. “Follow me. Her room is the one at the back of the house.”

Kellar tried to keep his expression blank after they walked into the bedroom, but the despair he felt at the first sight of Adelin’s colors had his mask slipping. What he saw shook him to his core, but he had to get a grip and stay focused. They were all staring at him. As bad as he thought her look-alike sister was, it was nothing compared to the girl attempting to stand. She managed, but the effort was supreme as she gripped the substantial bedpost. The healer part of him was drawn in to the point of uneasy, almost morbid fascination, while the human part of him wanted to cry for what he saw coursing through her frail body. Her blood was the culprit, and he immediately recognized the color that didn’t belong.

He’d witnessed cancer before, in animals, and a human who had been diagnosed by conventional medicine. The same basic color he’d seen those times, was taking over the scarlet red that pumped from Adelin’s weakened heart. This shade was the tiniest fraction different from the human’s, but he’d dealt with it before. It was neither yellow, nor green, but in that spectrum, similar to the seepage from an infected wound. It revolted him at the same time it angered him. This was the enemy.

There was only one plant in his memory banks containing an exact match, and it could be deadly in large amounts. He didn’t know its name, had yet to find it in one of his treasured texts, but from a previous treatment, he’d determined it had an extremely high level of toxicity. That in itself was problematic, but added to it was the fact he didn’t carry that particular one in his arsenal; it couldn’t be cured with any method he was familiar with. The plant’s potency only lasted for twelve hours at most after picking, and his experience with it was limited to one animal.

“Is anything wrong?” The weakly whispered question jolted him back to the here and now.

“What? Sorry, Adelin, what did you say?”

“I said thank you for coming.”

“Oh… guess I spaced out there. Ah, you’re welcome. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Do you need to examine her?” Tilly asked. “There’s a lot of bruising under her night gown if you want to check.” The girls exchanged frightened looks, and Kellar saw that, not surprisingly, his healing touch had worn off the older sister. He should have done a better job of hiding his shock.

Kellar glanced at Tobyn, who was standing at the door. He had no doubt the man felt his alarm, because what he saw scared him to death. “That’s okay. I can see them.” He felt a presence at his side and was immensely thankful for it. He knew, judging by his new patient’s perplexed look, he had to take the time to explain. “You should sit down, Adelin, and I’ll try to make sense as to how my healing works.”

Once she had gotten more comfortable, at least physically, he began. “Every living thing has an aura of sorts, and for some reason, since I first shifted, I’ve been able to see it whenever I want. The amount of different colors is astronomical, way more than I could ever see when I was strictly human, but they each indicate something. We all have our signature pattern, and that by itself, doesn’t tell me much. A change in the strength of those colors can signify weakening or exhaustion, but it’s the addition of colors and where they are that lets me know what’s wrong when someone is sick. I can always tell when one doesn’t belong. So, what that means is, I can see the colors that represent bruising, and I can also see the one that doesn’t belong. It’s in your blood, and in two of your lymph nodes.”

“It’s cancer, isn’t it?” It was more a statement than a question.

“I’m pretty sure it is, yes. A form of leukemia.”

“Okay, well that’s no surprise. How long do you think I have?” He kept his attention on the sick girl, and tried to ignore the soft sobs coming from her sister.

“Hey,” he said softly. “Don’t go there. No promises, but I’m not going to give up. I’ll be honest with you. I’ve only dealt with cancer in an animal… a fox who had large tumors, one of them pushing on the back of its eye.” He looked at Tobyn and shrugged. “Long story.”

“Did you fix him?” Adelin asked, her voice barely audible.

“It was a female who had three kits to look after, and yes… she ended up good as new, so let’s have faith, okay?” She nodded, and the sobs from Tilly ceased. “But we do have a problem.” Again he looked at Tobyn. “I need your help.”

“Anything.”

“I don’t have the right medicinal. I know what it is, but it’s not a plant I can stock. It has to be fresh.”

Tilly, sounding stronger, interrupted. “What do you need a plant for? I thought you did the healing?”

“He does, Till, but he needs the plant with the same color as the one that doesn’t belong so he can use it to fight the cancer. He combines his healing with it somehow, and sort of sends it where it needs to go. Right?” He had turned to Kellar with the question.

“Exactly. Thanks for explaining it.” He gave Tobyn a genuine look of gratitude. “Does that answer your question?”

“Yes, it does. I’m not well-versed by any means, but I’ve been doing some reading about radiation and chemotherapy and it kind of makes sense to me. I hope you didn’t think I wasn’t sure about this. I trust you completely… because there’s no doubt Tobyn does. We’ve heard about shifter healers for years in some of the legends passed down. It’s nice to know one really exists.” She gave Adelin a little nod of reassurance, and sought out her hand.

Kellar raised his eyebrows at her comment about Tobyn’s trust in him. Was there something behind it? He dismissed the thought immediately as he looked at the two sisters. “Thank you for that, and I’m glad you’re asking questions, but we really need to locate the plant right away. Is there a stand of willows around here? Not willow trees… willow bushes… the ones with light green, almost white leaves that curl up a bit?”

Tobyn answered enthusiastically. “Oh yeah, we have those in a few places. Is that the one you need?”

“Unfortunately, no. The one we’re looking for usually grows among those bushes, though. They like the same wet soil.”

“Well, okay then. Let’s go find these things.” He was already walking to the door, and Kellar understood he was literally vibrating with the need to do something.

“Should I come?”

“No, Tilly… I think it’s best for you to stay with your sister. And Adelin, don’t exert yourself in any way; and don’t try to drink or eat anything until we get you looked after, all right?”

“I couldn’t, even if I wanted to,” she said without humor. He watched her lay down before turning and following the eager blond man.

 

“So what do you think?” Tobyn asked as they hurried back for his truck.

“It’s pretty bad. I might be out of my league here. It sucks we can’t get proper medical help because we’re shifters.”

“Hey, you’re proper medical help, and I don’t think you’re out of your league. Maybe it’ll turn out you can’t heal her, but I have more faith in you than in any doctor. She sure looks bad, doesn’t she?”

“That’s because she’s very close to death, Tobyn. I’m fucking scared, to tell you the truth. I’ve never tackled anything like this before, and I almost lost that mother fox because I couldn’t get the dosage right. It’s a dangerous plant.”

“Kellar, I know we’re asking a lot, and it’s a hell of a lot of pressure, but no matter how it goes, you won’t have failed in anyone’s eyes. You’re trying, and that’s all we ask. The rest of the pack is already on death watch, and the girls know it. It’s not the first time we’ve had to watch someone slip away. Any chance now is worth taking, and no one will think poorly of you if it doesn’t work. I trust you, man.”

“Thank you. I know you mean it, and I couldn’t not try. I’m going to do my best, and you’re right… at this point we have nothing to lose. That girl doesn’t deserve this.” He took a few deep, calming breaths when they reached the truck. “Now, let’s see if we can find this needle in a haystack.” He didn’t say it, but they were fast running out of time.

 

The first place they went to had the right kind of willow, but there were none of the diminutive plants. The next stand of bushes produced the same empty result. They both expressed mounting disappointment with a few curses, but Tobyn wasn’t to be deterred. “There’s one more place in a bog I know of, and if it doesn’t pan out, there’s someone else who might have an idea where to look.”

Kellar could see the color from sixty feet away. “It’s down there. I’m sure of it.” They’d been trudging through swampy woods, and it had begun to look futile, but his flickered vision was never wrong. They reached the almost hidden plants at the same time, and Kellar examined them carefully. There were only three, but they were all healthy and in flower. The odor was a little off-putting, but that was often the way with the more toxic plants. It was their protection from hungry critters, and any that did chew on one, would likely fall ill soon after.

“Should we grab all three?”

“No, that would be a mistake. Normally, I’d only pick one of a plant that loses its potency after only half a day, but I don’t know how much it’ll take. We’ll pick these two, and leave the last one in case we need it later. You’ll remember exactly where it is if you have to come for it alone, right?”

Tobyn frowned, and then nodded. “Why would I have to come alone?”

“Because once I start, I won’t be able to leave her.”

“Oh, right. Got it.”

More than an hour had passed by the time they were back at Tilly’s door. He could feel her rising panic as she ushered them in, relating that Adelin was having trouble breathing. Kellar was aware they had little time, but even he hadn’t been prepared for how rapidly her aura had faded since they’d left.

“I need to prepare the tea right away. I know what part of the plant to use, but I’m not sure of the amount, so I’m going to make it weak to start… roughly a half dose,” he explained, trying his best to stay calm.. “Tilly, you have to watch me closely, in case you have to prepare more of it.”

The electric kettle was quick and Kellar divided one plant into two equal chopped-up portions, going on both gut instinct and his little experience. A fox is a far cry from a full grown shifter with different physiology. Using one of them, he steeped it, separating the liquid before making a paste-like clump of the fibrous leftovers.

“You need to use the other pile and do the exact same thing if I ask for it, and you may have to chop up the second plant into the same amounts,” he told the intently observant sister. She nodded that she understood the process. Tobyn had studied the preparations as well, watching it all from the end of the kitchen counter.

Kellar stuck the remaining plant into a glass of water, warning Tilly it was toxic and to dispose of it carefully if they didn’t use it. At the mention of the word ‘toxic,’ a hint of fear flashed over her face, but she rallied and nodded once more.

Back in the bedroom, he coaxed a lethargic Adelin to accept the few sips of liquid before sliding the coarsely ground wad in against her cheek. He spoke clearly to her, explaining what he was doing and imparting on her the dangers of swallowing the plant. If he felt toxicity occurring, he would be able to remove the mass from her cheek easily, but if she swallowed it, he couldn’t control the dosage her body received, and that could prove disastrous. There’s no turning back now.

Within seconds after she’d accepted the tea, he was kneeling on the rug at the side of the bed with the palm of one hand pressed against her back and the other flat against her front, directly over her heart. In essence, the pump for her circulatory system was sandwiched between his two hands as she lay on her back. At his touch, Adelin slowly lost consciousness. The surge of heat that began generating immediately, surprised even him. It was the first time Kellar experienced so sudden a drain on his own body, and when he flickered, his colors had already paled enough he could detect the difference. This was going to be an ordeal.

What might have been a couple of hours later, Kellar surfaced from some place deep. Sweat was pouring from his entire body, while his patient was flushed, but only damp across her forehead. A check on her colors showed he wasn’t gaining ground as fast as he’d hoped, so he asked for the next pile to be prepared, vaguely sensing Tilly’s hurried exit. He paid no mind to what was going on around him. All his attention was centered on defeating this repulsive color. The only thing he never lost awareness of, was Tobyn’s constant presence in the corner behind him.

Tilly’s return with the next portion forced him to break concentration enough to evaluate. With a clear mind, he concluded Adelin could handle the full amount, and proceeded to drip it slowly into her open mouth. Although she was somewhat out of it, Kellar’s coaxing got her to swallow until it was all taken in. Once satisfied she was handling the new dosage, he placed the new clump against her cheek and returned to his previous position, not paying heed to an enormous, full-body ache. His determination was a lot stronger than any temporary discomfort.

Kellar couldn’t begin to guess the amount of time passing, but he was aware he was starting to win the battle against the poisoned blood. Each time he flickered, the vile color had decreased. As drained as he was, he was still not prepared when his healing power shut down to a trickle. So fucking close, was all he could think. If he couldn’t continue, he would lose. His instincts told him this was a battle that had to be won now.

“Tobyn, I…please… I need you.” His voice didn’t sound like his own, and was not at all strong.

His plea resulted in a frightened looking Tobyn peering into his face. “What can I do? Kellar, are you all right?”

Tobyn’s touch on his arm confirmed Kellar’s desperate thought was correct. “I’m… my energy is running out. It’s not done yet. I need your help.”

“Whatever you want.”

“Put your hands over mine. Slide one underneath, between my hand and the mattress, and put the other on top. I need to borrow some strength. I’m almost there.” He managed a small smile as Tobyn did as asked. Kellar felt the steady return of warmth and his smile got bigger. “It’s working,” was all he said as he directed all this new energy to the battle to save Adelin. He’d just learned something else he could do as a healer. Somewhere in the distance, he heard Tilly’s sobbing while he absorbed a steady stream of strength from the man leaning into his side.

 

Someone was shaking him. It took him a couple of minutes to force himself from sleep, and when he did, he found his forehead was resting against the back of a strong blond-haired neck. They were both still kneeling at his patient’s bedside, leaning against one another. He jerked his head up and pain lanced through his entire body. “Tobyn. Tobyn!” He flickered and saw he was almost comatose with exhaustion, but though his aura was severely depleted, his vitals were good. He sighed in relief as he stroked the sandy hair. It was only then he realized Tilly was speaking.

“She’s breathing fine again. I took that mushy thing out of her mouth. I tried to wake you but I couldn’t. Is she okay? Is Adelin okay?”

He flickered, but he already knew. He remembered holding onto consciousness until all the offensive color had been obliterated. “Yes, she’s fine. Every bit of her cancer is gone. And you did right to remove the clump.” He heard a thump behind him, and forced rigid, locked muscles to work so he could detach himself and twist around. Tilly was sitting on the floor, holding her head in her hands, relieved tears dripping through her fingers. “Tilly, can you help me lay Tobyn down? I don’t want him to slide sideways and hurt himself.”

“Of course,” she said, smiling through those tears. Together, they got him laid out on the rug, and only then did Kellar collapse beside him, closing his eyes in contentment. He made sure they were touching along their entire sides so he could continue to give back some of what he’d taken. He only vaguely heard the profuse thanks from Tilly.

A while later he woke to see Tilly dozing on the bed alongside her sister. Somehow, Tobyn’s hand had found his, or vice-versa. Raising himself up, he flickered and checked Tobyn first, satisfied and relieved his colors were much stronger. Checking Adelin thoroughly, he was thrilled with how clear she was, in both her blood and lymph nodes. While her aura was weak, it was not dangerously low. She needed rest. They all did. Looking down at the blond man’s perfect features, he was overwhelmed with emotion. There was no denying just how much he loved this guy, and maybe it was the sharing of energy, but at that moment, he felt closer to him than ever. Sighing, he gave him a gentle shake and watched those beautiful, hazel eyes slowly open.

“You did it, didn’t you?” Tobyn sounded hoarse, but there was only certainty in his voice.

We did it. But yeah, she’s cancer-free. I just checked. You’re pretty drained so be careful when you stand up.”

“No, you did it. Do you realize you were with her for almost seven hours before I joined you?”

“Wow, that long. No, I didn’t notice time or much else once I began.”

“It’s kind of scary, you know? It’s like you’re not even here, and you get really white even though you must be hot. You were sweating like crazy.”

“I must stink.”

“No, you don’t. You smell great.” Tobyn blushed before rising slowly to his feet. “We should get going. A bed will be a lot better than this floor.”

“I’m with you. My joints aren’t, though. Give me a hand?”

When Tobyn pulled him up, Kellar found himself in an embrace. “Thank you, Kellar, for doing this. You’re amazing. Losing Adelin would have been a huge blow to the whole pack, and now we have a miracle. There will be some very happy wolves when word gets out.”

To Kellar, the hug from this one man was all the thanks he needed, or wanted. “I’m a healer, remember? It’s who I am. No need to thank me. Now, can you carry me to the truck or do I have to walk?”

Tobyn laughed as they drew apart. “I’m pretty strong, but carrying lumberjack giants is something I can't do.”

 

They staggered through the door of the house in the trees, literally holding each other up. Upon entering the kitchen, Tobyn pulled open the fridge. “You need to eat something.”

“I’m too tired to eat,” Kellar mumbled as he collapsed into a classic Windsor high-backed chair. It was surprisingly roomy for a guy his size.

“Dude, you just went through hell… a marathon, and you are going to eat. I insist.”

“Oh you do, do you?”

“Yes, I do. I don’t know how you held on so long, but you definitely need refueling.” He pulled a Corning-ware dish out and placed it in the good-sized microwave before dropping in to one of the same chairs, knees touching Kellar’s. “I think we need showers too.”

“I thought you said I smell great.” Kellar enjoyed seeing the blond man blush again.

“Well, you do,” he insisted. “You were giving off this odor that reminded me of the woods on a winter day. It was different from your normal scent, and it filled the room. It was strange because you were dripping with sweat. You still smell like that.”

“Hmm. Must have something to do with the healing. Did Tilly notice it too?”

“No, I asked her, but she said she couldn’t detect anything. I think she must have a cold.”

Kellar filed that tidbit away. Tilly did not have any sign of a cold. “What smells so good?”

“Chicken casserole.”

“Okay, I guess I can force myself to eat some of it.”

“Good, because otherwise I’d have to spoon-feed you,” Tobyn said with a twinkle in his eyes.

Kellar guffawed. “Buddy, if you can’t carry a lumberjack, you’re not going to be able to force-feed him.”

Tobyn laughed. “Thank God I won’t have to try.”

They each managed to eat a little before helping each other up. Kellar had never been more tired in his life, and it took monumental effort just to make it to the bathroom to shower. He gave up when pulling his tee-shirt off became a challenge he couldn’t meet, and headed for the room designated as his.

Tobyn stopped him in the hall. “What are you doing?”

“I can’t lift my arms. I’m too tired… going to bed.”

The blond man, who seemed to shimmer before him, shook his head and herded him back inside. Kellar could see his exhaustion too, but in no time he’d undressed them both and got them in the roomy shower. “This will make us feel better. I know you’re tired but you need this.”

“So, I do stink after all.”

A chuckle met his remark. “No, I just meant it will help wash away the aches I know you’re feeling. I only knelt there about a third of the time you did, and I’m sore as hell. Now stop your complaining, mountain man.”

“So, now you’re the healer?”

“Yes, now shut up. There’s a new doctor in the house.”

Kellar smiled. He was more awake now as he felt strong hands quickly soaping him up. Tobyn avoided Kellar’s junk, but made short work of the rest of him. He thought he’d died and gone to heaven when the attentive man worked shampoo into his hair. A quick rinse and he was handed the soap. “You can take care of the rest,” Tobyn said, looking down at the big cock that had begun to fill with blood. Turning away, he soaped himself up as a slightly embarrassed Kellar did as he’d been told. Unfortunately, the sight of the manly, rounded ass in front of him finished the process, making it impossible for him to stop the blood flow; when they faced each other again, he was at full mast.

“Sorry for….” When he looked down, he saw his friend was in the same state. Looking back up, he was met with a sheepish grin.

“Happens to the best of us. Are you all done?”

“Um, yeah.” Kellar was having trouble keeping his eyes straight ahead. Fuck, the man was beautiful. Why couldn’t things be different? He found himself deflating mentally and physically. They were just friends, and he’d already accepted it. He was surprised when Tobyn dried his back, but it only made matters worse. He was so caring, it twisted Kellar’s over-worked heart. He had to get out of there. “I need my bed. See you in the morning.” Without a backward glance, he headed for his room, entering and closing the door behind him.

He wanted to scream in frustration, but instead, pulled the covers back and got into the remarkably cool bed. It had to be at least five in the morning and the temperature had dropped considerably. Closing his eyes, he attempted sleep. It wasn’t long before they opened again as his mind rebelled. Why was he in such a state over a man he’d only met yesterday… well, two days ago now? With his energy depleted, he should be passed out, but all he could think of was the guy mere feet away in another bed.

Love at first sight. Yeah, now he was a believer. He’d accomplished what he had set out to do… help his friend and heal Adelin, and the sooner he made his getaway, the better. Tilly really was a sweet girl, and Kellar could see why she was the one Tobyn had decided on.

Sleep wouldn’t come. What the hell was wrong with him? He felt like he was being clawed from the inside, and was about ready to give up, and go outside for a walk. A tap on the door startled him just as he put his feet on the floor. It was a testament to his exhaustion that he hadn’t heard footsteps. He didn’t say anything, and the door slowly opened, revealing a naked Tobyn standing there with a blanket around his shoulders. That was the great thing about wolf vision. Kellar could see the questioning look on Tobyn’s face.

“I can’t sleep. Are you going somewhere?”

“I can’t either. I was thinking about going for a walk… maybe even a run.”

“Are you crazy? You could hardly stand up in the shower. How about we just lay down… and maybe talk for a bit?”

“Talk about what?”

“Shit, I don’t know, Kellar. I’m all messed up, and I can tell something’s bothering you. Sorry, it’s a dumb idea. Go for a walk if you think it will help you. Good night.”

“Tobyn, wait.” The door opened again.

“Yeah?”

He studied the handsome face. “You know how I feel about you, don’t you?”

Tobyn looked down. “Yeah, I think so. I’m sorry, I don’t mean to make things….”

“Do you want to try sleeping in here?”

His head shot back up. “Yes. I don’t like being alone. Maybe last night spoiled me.” His little grin was adorable, and Kellar let go of his tightly-controlled fears.

“Climb in then.” He returned the grin. It might not be smart, but at least he’d have him close for one more night. The minute Tobyn’s body touched his, he felt a wave of sleepiness, and smiled at the yawn coming from his bed companion. “What should we talk about?”

“Anything you….”

Just like that, Tobyn was asleep, and within a minute he was burrowed into his side. Kellar felt a welcome sense of peace blanket him as he pulled perfection closer still. Burying his nose in the sandy hair, he let the scent take him to the land of dreams. The land where there was no reason for them to be apart.

A big thanks to my editor, Timothy M., and to those who read and support this story.
Copyright © 2017 Headstall; All Rights Reserved.
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Stories posted in this category are works of fiction. Names, places, characters, events, and incidents are created by the authors' imaginations or are used fictitiously. Any resemblances to actual persons (living or dead), organizations, companies, events, or locales are entirely coincidental.
Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you. 

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On 06/29/2016 12:24 AM, Puppilull said:

What a relief Adelin was saved. And interesting to see Kellar and Tobyn work together, combining their energy to heal her. I guess the next step as far as the pack goes will be to find out the cause of the malaise.

 

I'm also thinking Kellar and Tobyn need to have a talk when they wake up. I hope Kellar doesn't just leave. Although my guess is his healer instincts will want to get to the bottom of this. And his heart and body will want to stay near Tobyn. Question is what Tobyn will do? Time to get real...

Yes, the time is approaching to get real :) . And first on the agenda is waking up in the arms of a naked man again... But, of course, it all comes down to the malaise. It is what is running these guys' lives for the most part... at least Tobyn's anyway. Kellar is such a good man, but right now, he wants to run scared... we'll see how far he gets... thanks for the great review, Puppi.. and thank you for supporting this story... cheers... Gary...

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On 06/29/2016 12:30 AM, Bucket1 said:

The cost of being a healer was felt here, all his energy and then some from his earth mate. This would have been devastating if the young sister had fallen away but timing is everything and he has changed the future of the pack forever (no pressure or anything like that). Next is the work on the rest of the pack, Kellar will not be going anywhere soon.

 

No sleep for either one unless they were together? Sounds like a true bond there. I wonder what Tobyn's mother will say.

 

I liked the longer chapter and am looking forward to the next - bring it on!

I'm glad you felt the cost to Kellar, B. This was one hell of a physical and mental ordeal for him. In the end, though, he achieved something magical... and miraculous. After what he went through, I liked leaving him in the arms of the man he loves... unfortunately, tomorrow has to come. Thanks for the wonderful review, buddy... cheers... Gary...

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Wow, so much happens this chapter, and yet still so many more questions. Kellar pulled it off, and I didn't really doubt him. Of course in saying that, he's able to beat cancer in the right circumstances, but timing is everything and it was still a pretty close call. Just like in real non-shifter life the earlier the better. He might run into some cases he can't fix. That'll be rough if and when it does happen.

 

Good thing I read your response to lux's review because that answered one of my questions. The malaise weakens shifters, leaving them exposed to other illnesses, in Adelin's case, it was cancer. Kellar has his work cut out for him.

 

Ok so, Kellar and Tobyn have a sort of empathic connection. Not sure exactly how that happened so quickly, but it's totally happening. Tobyn isn't just "not clueless" as he said, but he seems to be preternaturally aware of Kellar's feelings. I'm assuming that Kellar couldn't have pulled off that sharing of energy with just anyone. Especially since he hadn't ever done that before.

 

Anyway, this was the best chapter yet. I'm so intrigued by this story and I get excited whenever it updates. This was awesome Gary!

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On 06/29/2016 04:00 AM, JeffreyL said:

Just wanted to say thank you. I am really enjoying Kellar and Tobyn's story. Jeff

Thank you, Jeff! So glad to hear from you. You're welcome, and I'm pleased you are enjoying their story... lots more to come. I very much appreciate the review... cheers... Gary...

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On 06/29/2016 04:29 AM, scrubber6620 said:

Land of Dreams. I like how the chapter ends after all this turmoil. Kellar and Tobyn are slowly finding how about themselves and how closely they are really connected and dependent on each other. They can't sleep alone and they need each other's strengths. They are linked .They are acting naturally, innocently and learning. But, still they can't see a way to resolve their feelings and the implications. The scene involving saving the girl with cancer was well done, tension filled and sensitive to the nature of the characters. I felt the pain the people experienced. I guess eventually Tilly will see ( after how well they worked on her sister) that Tobyn and Kellar are a pair of wolves that work well together and belong to each other. Tobyn's mother should be able to pick up from what the young guys say and how they look at each other that they are true mates as portrayed in legend. She could help them work things out later. I still am puzzled by the nature of the malaise. I once thought the kitchen might be connected but Kellar did not find any problem with his food. Kellar has to decide how long he will stay with the pack, what the real malaise is, how he can relate to more shifters, how many he will help, and what really he wants. Tobyn is confused and is so good hearted. At least they are having almost complete conversations. At some point they will both open up. But this is all so new and they likely will have a rocky road ahead. I am looking forward to your next chapters.

Thank you, scrubber! I'm glad you thought well of the healing scene. It was an important one for me. You're right that the boys are slowly finding out about themselves. It's a tough situation for the pair of them, and I think eventually, something will have to give. I like how you sum up where they are right now. The malaise is priority one right now... it is pervading everything. And yes, this is all so new to both men, so that rocky road is likely. Thanks for such an awesome review... cheers... Gary...

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On 06/29/2016 07:00 AM, Mikiesboy said:

That was a good chapter. The quickness of the cure gave me a bit of a jolt, but just cuz it's so not the thing in our world, but I know we're not in our world. I think you do a good job with Kellar and what he sees and how he feels about it. Hopefully he can determine what the cause of the other issue is. Interesting stuff Gary! And I like the longerererer chapters....

tim xo

Thanks, tim. Yeah, to cure cancer by itself is incredible, but to do it in a long evening is even more so. Remember, he healed a fractured skull in a few hours... so his healing is powerful. I'm pleased you like how we're seeing Kellar and what he's going through. This whole situation is taking its toll, yet he is hanging in there. I'm glad you liked the longererer chapter... there's another one of these after the next one... thanks, my friend for the review and your support... cheers... Gary... xo

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As usual your chapter title and note hint at several matters. I shall start with the Do no harm incantation, which is the one all healers should heed, well I guess all humans and shifters too. Kellar lives by the principle and he is focused on not hurting Tilly and Toby, because they are good people. Tilly's love for her sister and pain over her illness resonated with him, and his protective instincts and need to help came to the fore. Of course this became even more intense when he saw Adelin; he was ready to go all out to save her. This is where the significance of the chapter title kicks in.
The first Dangerous Territory here is Kellar attempting to cure cancer in one sitting and save someone close to death. I've come across a few other stories with this type of healer, and the main danger is that they will work themselves into exhaustion and even death rather than give up. Not that I'm saying Kellar would fall into this final trap, but simply getting to the point where his healing gift became no more than a trickle was a new and scary experience for him. He has never encountered this limit before, nor faced a situation where he riskd losing his patient.
Of course, Tobyn was there to help, first by reassuring Kellar no one in the pack would blame him if he failed. But even more importantly by lending his strength and energy. This was a new and most welcome discovery at the time, and something to be explored later. The subsequent need to be close physically (lying close together, holding hands, hugging and ultimately cuddling up naked to sleep) is the Dangerous Territory, or at least it is while Tobyn has not broken up with Tilly. What will happen when his mother arrives to thank Kellar for the unexpected saving of Adelin? :o I bet she's used to entering without knocking or ringing the door bell. Oh well, rather her than Tilly I guess.
The final Dangerous Territory is the one where Kellar has admitted his feelings but thinks Tobyn can't return them or at least won't act on his own attraction and love for the mountain man. They both know getting naked in the shower and sleeping together is unwise, even 'dangerous' but the need to be close is a physical ache which cannot be denied. If they try, it will probably have bad consequences. In addition, denying an earth mate would probably be almost sacrilege if the shifters have any religion in this world. Not a good idea to piss off your Moon Goddess or whatever by refusing to mate. :no: All I'm waiting for is Kellar's pointed question: "So how do you know you're earth mates?" Of course, Kellar is already being honest with himself about love at first sight.
As always I loved all the subtle hints of the steadily increasing connection between the two men. Kellar's reaction to Tobyn's closeness as they enter the girls' home. His constant awareness of Tobyn's presence even when lost in his healing. Them holding hands while resting. Tobyn's worry about him and insisting on pampering Kellar with food and help in the shower. The way he describes how Kellar smells wonderful - and I'm all :facepalm: at his clueless dismissal of the fact Tilly couldn't smell anything. Their mutual banter and arousal in the shower and inability to fall asleep alone, but instant transportation to dreamland when together. :wub:
We trust you will make their (and our) dreams come true. :worship:

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On 06/30/2016 05:06 AM, spikey582 said:

Wow, so much happens this chapter, and yet still so many more questions. Kellar pulled it off, and I didn't really doubt him. Of course in saying that, he's able to beat cancer in the right circumstances, but timing is everything and it was still a pretty close call. Just like in real non-shifter life the earlier the better. He might run into some cases he can't fix. That'll be rough if and when it does happen.

 

Good thing I read your response to lux's review because that answered one of my questions. The malaise weakens shifters, leaving them exposed to other illnesses, in Adelin's case, it was cancer. Kellar has his work cut out for him.

 

Ok so, Kellar and Tobyn have a sort of empathic connection. Not sure exactly how that happened so quickly, but it's totally happening. Tobyn isn't just "not clueless" as he said, but he seems to be preternaturally aware of Kellar's feelings. I'm assuming that Kellar couldn't have pulled off that sharing of energy with just anyone. Especially since he hadn't ever done that before.

 

Anyway, this was the best chapter yet. I'm so intrigued by this story and I get excited whenever it updates. This was awesome Gary!

Thank you, spikey. Sorry for the delay in answering. I'm so glad you think it's the best chapter yet. There was, as you said, a lot going on in this chapter. Kellar learned more about himself, and both men are even more aware of their connection, but I think there is some confusion over the strength of it. Even through their exhaustion, they needed each other to seep. Both men have some thinking to do. As far as energy, that was pure instinct on Kellar's part, and he doesn't know himself whether it would work with someone else... thanks for the wonderful review, buddy... cheers... Gary...

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On 06/30/2016 03:07 PM, Timothy M. said:

As usual your chapter title and note hint at several matters. I shall start with the Do no harm incantation, which is the one all healers should heed, well I guess all humans and shifters too. Kellar lives by the principle and he is focused on not hurting Tilly and Toby, because they are good people. Tilly's love for her sister and pain over her illness resonated with him, and his protective instincts and need to help came to the fore. Of course this became even more intense when he saw Adelin; he was ready to go all out to save her. This is where the significance of the chapter title kicks in.

The first Dangerous Territory here is Kellar attempting to cure cancer in one sitting and save someone close to death. I've come across a few other stories with this type of healer, and the main danger is that they will work themselves into exhaustion and even death rather than give up. Not that I'm saying Kellar would fall into this final trap, but simply getting to the point where his healing gift became no more than a trickle was a new and scary experience for him. He has never encountered this limit before, nor faced a situation where he riskd losing his patient.

Of course, Tobyn was there to help, first by reassuring Kellar no one in the pack would blame him if he failed. But even more importantly by lending his strength and energy. This was a new and most welcome discovery at the time, and something to be explored later. The subsequent need to be close physically (lying close together, holding hands, hugging and ultimately cuddling up naked to sleep) is the Dangerous Territory, or at least it is while Tobyn has not broken up with Tilly. What will happen when his mother arrives to thank Kellar for the unexpected saving of Adelin? :o I bet she's used to entering without knocking or ringing the door bell. Oh well, rather her than Tilly I guess.

The final Dangerous Territory is the one where Kellar has admitted his feelings but thinks Tobyn can't return them or at least won't act on his own attraction and love for the mountain man. They both know getting naked in the shower and sleeping together is unwise, even 'dangerous' but the need to be close is a physical ache which cannot be denied. If they try, it will probably have bad consequences. In addition, denying an earth mate would probably be almost sacrilege if the shifters have any religion in this world. Not a good idea to piss off your Moon Goddess or whatever by refusing to mate. :no: All I'm waiting for is Kellar's pointed question: "So how do you know you're earth mates?" Of course, Kellar is already being honest with himself about love at first sight.

As always I loved all the subtle hints of the steadily increasing connection between the two men. Kellar's reaction to Tobyn's closeness as they enter the girls' home. His constant awareness of Tobyn's presence even when lost in his healing. Them holding hands while resting. Tobyn's worry about him and insisting on pampering Kellar with food and help in the shower. The way he describes how Kellar smells wonderful - and I'm all :facepalm: at his clueless dismissal of the fact Tilly couldn't smell anything. Their mutual banter and arousal in the shower and inability to fall asleep alone, but instant transportation to dreamland when together. :wub:

We trust you will make their (and our) dreams come true. :worship:

Nailed it, Tim! I was a little surprised you understood that the 'do no harm' applied to Tobyn as well, but I shouldn't have been. Dangerous Territory was as much about Kellar's heart as the act of healing and how the pack would view him. You're right about all of it. There are some things here I can't comment on, but I want to say how much I appreciate that you notice ALL the subtlties. So many things tie together beneath the surface. That saying... there are none so blind as those who will not see... well, it could apply a bit to Tobyn... yet, he does see how Kellar feels, and he accepts and admits his own attraction to the big man. I think we have to chalk some of it up to the newness, the mindset, and a little bit to their exhaustion. One way or another, something has to give. Kellar has to decide how much he can take... thank you for an astounding review, buddy... I must have read it a dozen times... sorry for the delay in answering... just know it meant a lot that you were so comprehensive... cheers... Gary...

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Tim may write the longest reviews and I the shortest, but this pretty well sums up opinion.

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On 07/03/2016 06:53 AM, Kitt said:

Tim may write the longest reviews and I the shortest, but this pretty well sums up opinion.

Thank you, Kitt! Your 'heart' and your support mean the world to me. Your review is perfect... cheers, Sis... Gary...

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Do I even need to write a review?? :o Maybe a little because...well it's me! :funny: Your answer to Lux answered my main question. So thanks for that. :thumbup: Keller is going to be faced with all sorts of diseases before they can find out the root cause. Is every cure going to need a different type of plant? How long before T & K have a long, eye-opening, heart to heart talk? For some reason, I'm thinking that Kellar is mis-interpreting the relationship between Tilly and Tobyn. Or will there be a truck load of angst barreling down the road towards us? :gikkle: I always tell myself not to ask questions and then my fingers get carried away. Oh well....write faster :read:

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On 07/03/2016 12:21 PM, LadyDe said:

Do I even need to write a review?? :o Maybe a little because...well it's me! :funny: Your answer to Lux answered my main question. So thanks for that. :thumbup: Keller is going to be faced with all sorts of diseases before they can find out the root cause. Is every cure going to need a different type of plant? How long before T & K have a long, eye-opening, heart to heart talk? For some reason, I'm thinking that Kellar is mis-interpreting the relationship between Tilly and Tobyn. Or will there be a truck load of angst barreling down the road towards us? :gikkle: I always tell myself not to ask questions and then my fingers get carried away. Oh well....write faster :read:

If you're asking me, then yes... you always have to write a review, cuz I love 'em. Well, because it's you :) . And I can answer one of your questions. Yeah, it takes a different kind of plant for each different illness or injury, but Kellar usually has what he needs in stock. As far as T and K, let's say talks are ongoing. Meanwhile, Tilly is still Tobyn's girlfriend so....... yeah. A truckload of angst? Hmmmm. Maybe a cart load or two, and you can ask all the questions you want. I just may not answer them, though hehe. I'm on chapter 28 now... isn't that fast enough LadyDe? :) . As always, I love and appreciate your reviews, so remember, the answer is always YESSS... cheers... Gary...

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A very interesting approach to sympathetic healing. Both in what Kellar did for Adelin, and for what Toby did for Kellar. Yeah - these two are magnets. Empathetic alignment. Soul mates. Gonna happen.
Kellar was at the point where he was thinking, now that he had helped Adelin, he could get out of there. But - that was before this new experience with Toby. He won't go now. He can't go now.
You're really doing a nice job designing the glue that is going to hold these two guys together. Maybe the people at Elmer's would buy it? They should. A patent on this kind of bonding would make anyone rich.
Still have no idea as to the root cause of the malaise, and still waiting for the bad guys to show. All in good time, and with the same skill with which you have brought us to this point. I have no doubt. :worship:

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On 11/01/2016 02:19 PM, Geron Kees said:

A very interesting approach to sympathetic healing. Both in what Kellar did for Adelin, and for what Toby did for Kellar. Yeah - these two are magnets. Empathetic alignment. Soul mates. Gonna happen.

Kellar was at the point where he was thinking, now that he had helped Adelin, he could get out of there. But - that was before this new experience with Toby. He won't go now. He can't go now.

You're really doing a nice job designing the glue that is going to hold these two guys together. Maybe the people at Elmer's would buy it? They should. A patent on this kind of bonding would make anyone rich.

Still have no idea as to the root cause of the malaise, and still waiting for the bad guys to show. All in good time, and with the same skill with which you have brought us to this point. I have no doubt. :worship:

LOL... I don't think Elmer's would take my call, but thanks for the kind words. I agree... Kellar is going to have a tough time leaving Tobyn, but sometimes... well, you'll see. They are all stymied by the malaise at this point, but Kellar is a thinking man, so maybe he can help in some way. I'm going to stay mum on the bad guys... thanks for an awesome and encouraging review, my friend... cheers... Gary....

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The healing was impressive and held a bit of Reiki elements, which I liked much. I feel sorry for Kellar, but at least the Tobyn knows how he feels. That is a good initial point. :read:
:)

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On 01/31/2017 07:32 PM, Lyssa said:

The healing was impressive and held a bit of Reiki elements, which I liked much. I feel sorry for Kellar, but at least the Tobyn knows how he feels. That is a good initial point. :read:

:)

Hey, Lyssa. This was a tough and traumatic chapter for me. I wanted to get the ordeal of the healing right. It appears I did okay. I'm glad you felt sorry for Kellar because I did too. This is really difficult for him, and he doesn't know how to be selfish... to protect himself. I'm glad you picked up on the importance of Tobyn's awareness for how Kellar feels. It's a start. Thanks for the review :hug: Cheers... Gary....

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8 minutes ago, MacGreg said:

This longer chapter was deeply satisfying, Gary. I was completely captivated by the urgency of Adelin's plight and the length of time Kellar spent on healing her. Your writing allowed me to feel the cancer disintegrating from Adelin's body and Kellar's exhaustion and determination during the process as though I was Kellar myself. Then when he requested that Tobyn assist by offering his own healing touch to Kellar, I felt a lump of emotion in my throat. These two are the true mates, I don't care what anyone else says. If that experience didn't bring them considerable degrees closer, I don't know what will. But, then, you're the brilliant author who will take us where we need to go. Kellar has a lot of strength, and not just with his healer abilities. He's brave and calm and solid, even if he doubts himself. I'm really starting to love him. Thanks for this story.  

Thanks, Mac. This is such a satisfying review/comment. I'm so pleased you felt all you did in this chapter. Yes, that was an important moment, when Kellar requested Tobyn's assistance... I think it's a kind of verification, for Kellar at least. I don't know if I'm brilliant LOL, but I worked really hard to try and get this healing and connection right. It means a lot you are starting to love Kellar... he's a special guy to me :) ... thanks, buddy... you rock... yes you do... cheers... Gary....

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the mating bond is working... Glad the sister is healed if only that was true in the real world... great story so far!:2thumbs:

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5 hours ago, patrick1991 said:

the mating bond is working... Glad the sister is healed if only that was true in the real world... great story so far!:2thumbs:

Thanks, patrick. Yes, if only this could work in the real world. And it would appear there is a bond of some kind :) ... I'm really pleased you are liking the story so far... thanks for commenting... cheers... Gary....

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No matter how exhausted they are, their bodies react to the presence of the other man, be it with excitement or sleep or caring. We already know Tobyn is protective and caring when it comes to his pack, and here we see it in full measure towards the man who saved Adelin's life. If giving up Tobyn as a husband is the price Tilly has to pay for her sister's life, I bet she would pay it without hesitation. The love she feels for her sister shines throughout the chapter and is wonderful to see.

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1 hour ago, Timothy M. said:

No matter how exhausted they are, their bodies react to the presence of the other man, be it with excitement or sleep or caring. We already know Tobyn is protective and caring when it comes to his pack, and here we see it in full measure towards the man who saved Adelin's life. If giving up Tobyn as a husband is the price Tilly has to pay for her sister's life, I bet she would pay it without hesitation. The love she feels for her sister shines throughout the chapter and is wonderful to see.

Because of your comment, I reread this chapter just now, and I'm not ashamed to say I was sobbing. I was right back  to when I wrote this, feeling everything Kellar felt... all his fears... the pressure... and Tobyn's presence. And I also relived Tobyn's fear and worry and sense of responsibility for asking this of Kellar. Even if no one had liked this chapter, I would still have been content with it. I know you're right about Tilly. Losing Adelin, after losing her parents, would have affected Tilly forever. They love they share IS beautiful. Thank you, buddy... I'm still emotional, but I don't mind at all. :) 

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What can I say but Wow I got all misty eyed.  I like this part every nice

 

A while later he woke to see Tilly dozing on the bed alongside her sister. Somehow, Tobyn’s hand had found his, or vice-versa. Raising himself up, he flickered and checked Tobyn first, satisfied and relieved his colors were much stronger. Checking Adelin thoroughly, he was thrilled with how clear she was, in both her blood and lymph nodes. While her aura was weak, it was not dangerously low. She needed rest. They all did. Looking down at the blond man’s perfect features, he was overwhelmed with emotion. There was no denying just how much he loved this guy, and maybe it was the sharing of energy, but at that moment, he felt closer to him than ever. Sighing, he gave him a gentle shake and watched those beautiful, hazel eyes slowly open.

 

A great chapter thanks:thankyou::hug:

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21 hours ago, Albert1434 said:

What can I say but Wow I got all misty eyed.  I like this part every nice

 

A while later he woke to see Tilly dozing on the bed alongside her sister. Somehow, Tobyn’s hand had found his, or vice-versa. Raising himself up, he flickered and checked Tobyn first, satisfied and relieved his colors were much stronger. Checking Adelin thoroughly, he was thrilled with how clear she was, in both her blood and lymph nodes. While her aura was weak, it was not dangerously low. She needed rest. They all did. Looking down at the blond man’s perfect features, he was overwhelmed with emotion. There was no denying just how much he loved this guy, and maybe it was the sharing of energy, but at that moment, he felt closer to him than ever. Sighing, he gave him a gentle shake and watched those beautiful, hazel eyes slowly open.

 

A great chapter thanks:thankyou::hug:

You weren't the only one, Albert. I got misty eyed on the rereading of this chapter. I love what you chose to quote. As weak and exhausted as Kellar is, his first concern is Adelin, and then his friend. I can't help but love the big guy. :)  Thanks and cheers... Gary.... :hug: 

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