Four days had passed and it hardly seemed like a long afternoon. Being the center of attention has its advantages and at the same time, its drawbacks. The boys, as we were often referred to, spent our days telling of the battle. Our audience varied widely, but the story remained virtually the same. We didn't exaggerate the heroics or add anything to make the story more exciting. It was exciting enough on its own. To be called a hero conflicted with everything I believed. I was simply doing what I thought I needed to be doing. There's nothing heroic about that, at least to me there isn't. But to the people that listened, that finally got the chance to hear the story from our own lips, we were heroes. It got to the point that we couldn't even go to the cafeteria without being accosted for a narrative of our story.

Brandon and Scott were quite popular. Being humans, the Watcher people found them to be quite a novelty. Many had never met a human before and they were curious. I was quite proud of them both. The Watchers accepted them into the community and treated them as their own. Scott, in particular, seemed to revel in the attention. I sensed that he needed it, but I also sensed that he was using it. I found Scott by himself on more than one occasion, sitting and talking about our adventure with a small interested crowd. Scott kept busy from the time he woke up until the time he went to bed. Even Brandon was beginning to show signs that he was tiring of Scott's enthusiasm. He didn't say anything, but I could tell it was beginning to bother him.

Shane also relied on the attention. I'm sure it was a distraction to the grief he was going through after loosing his parents so suddenly and violently. It had been particularly hard because he couldn't have a proper service. Even though Watchers always cremate remains, not having that option had kept him from getting the closure he needed. There was a memorial service celebrating their lives, which was attended by what seemed to be everybody on board, but it was just one of many. Memorial service after memorial service. They were held almost every half hour. Hundreds of people had died or were assumed dead. You could sense the grief, but everyone seemed to be handling it well. There were more pressing issues to be dealt with than grief.

One of the highlights was the renaming of the Talon ship. Joel and Paulik thought we should have the honor. So we all sat down to discuss it. After about five minutes we reached our decision. "Deliverance" would be the name of the ship. After all, it had delivered us from certain death and delivered a temporary home to the Watchers. And, I added that the name "Deliverance" had a reference to a certain human film that included certain phrases like "squeal like a pig" and "boy, you've got a purdy mouth" that had implications only us "humans" would appreciate. Brandon and Shane got a particular laugh out of that one. Joel and Paulik were generally pleased with our choice, although they overlooked the references to the movie, and made an official note in the log.

I was taking the afternoon off from all the activities on the "Deliverance" and was enjoying a good book about the history of The Watchers in our quarters. I read with amazement how the small colony of Watchers had existed for millions of years in peaceful harmony "watching" the evolution of Earth. When the scientists from Kelmar, our home planet, subjected Earth to their awesome planetary evolvement technology, which was quite new at the time, no one guessed that their "evolutionary shot in the arm" would take off so fast. Intelligent life immediately started to evolve. From the primordial ooze, crawled the first beginnings of life that would eventually become the human race. And all the while, the colony of visitors, which had become known as "The Watchers," watched out and observed the work of their scientists. No one ever dreamt that the colony would remain on Earth for millions of years.

Taking a quick break, I went to the food processor and punched in some quick codes for some hot chocolate. I have to admit, the person that programmed the processor to replicate hot chocolate did an excellent job. There were even a few marshmallows on the side. With a steaming hot cup in hand, I settled back on the bunk to learn more about my past. Just as I started another chapter, the doorbell rang. I looked up and saw Paulik on the screen.

"Open," I said and the door immediately opened. "Hi Paulik. Jevic isn't here. He's visiting with Shane this afternoon." Paulik smiled and walked over to sit on the opposite bunk.

"That's all right Cameron. I came to see you." Of course, that tweaked my curiosity.

"Oh really? I was just reading about the history of The Watchers and find it fascinating."

"Our history is rich with the culture of The Watchers mixed with influences from the humans. Its interesting how the human race has influenced us. We've been watching them so long that I guess its natural that we took on some of their characteristics."

"I find that flattering Paulik, considering, as far as I knew, I was a human until just a few weeks ago."

"Its that very reason that I've come to visit you this afternoon Cameron."

"Oh really?"

"Well, not exactly, but it has to do with humans ... Brandon and Scott in particular."

"What's wrong with my friends? Did they get into trouble? Have they offended someone?"

"Oh nothing like that Cameron," Paulik started, but I could tell there was a great weight on his shoulders.

"What is it then Paulik? Please tell me."

"Cameron. The human boys, Brandon and Scott, well, they ... ah, they have to go home."

"I don't understand Paulik. What have they done?"

"They haven't done anything Cameron. Its just that they don't belong here. They both have families. They're both being missed. And I'm sure the police want to talk with both of them about the shooting." I knew he was right, but it didn't make it any easier. "Cameron, they don't have a clone to cover for them. As far as the humans are concerned, Brandon and Scott are missing. Can you imagine what their parents and friends are going through?"

"I-I know Paulik," I stammered. A stray tear rolled down my cheek. I didn't want my friends to leave.

"One more thing Cameron ... we'll have to erase their memories. We can't have the human race know they are being watched over. We just can't let that happen. We can't take any chances."

"Erase their memories?"

"I'm sorry Cameron, but we have to do what's right. And before too much more time passes, we'll have to deal with your parents as well."

"But my clone ..." I protested.

Is only temporary," Paulik interrupted. " ... only temporary. And Cameron, you are facing a very important decision yourself."

"What's that?" Paulik took a deep breath and then looked me squarely in the eyes.

"Whether to stay here or to go back to your human home."

My conversation with Paulik left me tired. It was way too much to think about. I know he's right. Its just not what I want to think about. I guess I must have dozed off, because the next thing I knew Jevic and Shane came walking in.

"Hey Cameron! What's up?" asked a grinning Shane. I struggled to regain full consciousness. Jevic smiled at me. Blinking my eyes, I finally looked up.

"Not much," I said sleepily.

"Dude, you're sleeping the day away. There's tons of stuff to do," said Shane. Jevic sat down beside me on the bunk. He gave me a quick little kiss on the cheek.

"Tired babe?" he asked. The memory of Paulik and what he had to say came rushing back. I took a long, deep breath and shook my head slowly. "What's wrong Cameron?" Shane sat down on Brandon and Scott's bunk. Glancing back and forth between them, I could see they were worried.

"It's Brandon and Scott," I said softly.

"What about them? They're OK aren't they?" asked Jevic.

"They're fine Jevic, but, but ... well, they need to go home."

"What are you talking about?" asked Jevic.

"Yeah! Where's all this coming from?" asked Shane.

"I had a talk with Paulik this afternoon ..."

"Well that explains everything," said a disgusted Jevic.

"Here me out, please babe? He's right. They do need to go home. And if anybody wants them to stay, its me. But what about their folks and I know the cops wanna talk to both of them about the shooting." The realization of what I was saying was slowly starting to sink in. "Plus, they don't have a clone to cover for them like I do."

"Shit!" said Jevic.

"He's right man," said Shane. "They've gotta go home."

"There's more," I said softly. Both of them looked at me.

"Their memories have to be erased."

"Now I've heard it all," said Jevic standing up. "This is bullshit!" Suddenly the door opened and in walked Brandon and Scott. Jevic quickly looked at me. "Do they know?" he asked quietly. I shook my head.

"Hey guys! What's up?" said Brandon.

"Brandon. Scott. Come on in. We have to talk," I said in as serious a tone as I could muster. They both looked at me strangely. Shane and Jevic both took on a serious look too.

"Hey now listen. We haven't been doing anything we shouldn't have been doing," said Scott.

"Its not anything like that Scott. Come on over and have a seat," said Jevic. Scott and Brandon both made their way through the tight space and sat down on their bunk beside Shane. I took a deep breath and tried to summon all the courage that I could.

"Look guys, the battle's over. Everything is returning to normal. And its time for you two to return to normal too."

"What do mean by that?" asked Brandon.

"Its time to go back home," I said softly.

"I don't want to go back home. You should know that better than anybody Cameron. There's nobody to go back to," said Brandon.

"What about your mom? And what about the police? I'm sure they want to talk to you and to you too Scott."

"I've already given my statement. A detective came and saw me at the hospital," explained Scott.

"And I gave my statement to the cop that took me to the emergency room," said Brandon.

"What about your mom Brandon? And Scott, what about your folks? Don't you think they're worried?" Jevic asked.

"And what about your friends and what about school?" I asked. Scott stood up suddenly and glared at me.

"I thought we were friends Cameron. You saved my life and I'm really glad you did, but I thought if anybody would want to see me stay it would be you. You've really let me down. I can't believe I'm sitting here listening to this bullshit! Come on Brandon!" Brandon quickly stood up and they both left in a rush.

"Well, that went well," said Shane.

"Damn it! I don't want them to leave. They're my friends," I said.

"They're mine too," chimed in Jevic.

"I'm gonna go talk with them," said Shane, getting up from the bunk.

"What are you going to say?" I asked.

"I don't know." Then he turned and left.

"You did what?" asked a shocked Joel.

"I told Cameron the humans have to go home."

"I can't believe you did that." The two men walked down the short corridor from the bridge and entered the commander's salon to continue their conversation in private.

"What was I supposed to do Joel? They can't stay here and you know that."

"There is always a way Paulik. You should know that."

"I can't believe you're saying this. I can't believe it." Paulik sat down next to Joel.

"Look, we can put a clone in for both Scott and Brandon. It won't be hard to cook up a story about where they've been for the last few days. Paulik, we owe these boys. We owe them because they were taken ... no kidnapped by the Talons. They didn't ask to be here. They were brought here against their will. And then what did they do? They jumped right in and put their lives on the line for us. And now you're telling me we're gonna just erase their memories and send them packing? I just can't agree with that." Paulik sat back in the seat and pondered over Joel's words. His partner had valid points, but he also knew the boys would need to eventually end up back home. Finally he sighed deeply and looked over at Joel.

"OK, I'll agree to that. But its gotta be temporary Joel. You know just as well as I do that they need to be home."

"I know Paulik," said Joel and he put his arm on his lover's shoulder. "Let's let 'em stay a while longer. I'll arrange for the clones. It won't be a problem."

"OK."

"Cameron." I looked up into the love of my life's beautiful green eyes and smiled. "There's supposed to be a spectacular sunset tonight. Would you like to join me topside?"

"Jevic, I feel like shit."

"I know baby, but things have a way of working themselves out. Trust me. If I know Joel he's probably talking with Paulik right now about some kind of plan so Scott and Brandon can stay here."

"You think so?"

"I know so," Jevic said smiling. He stood up and stood in front of me. "Trust me Cameron. Its going to be all right. I love you ya know?" I'm never going to get used to being the object of his love. Here he is standing in front of me, the most beautiful boy in the world, loving me for me. Not for what I can do, but for me. "So are you going to join me topside for the sunset?"

"Jevic, I'd love to join you, but why don't you come over here beside me first?" Our usual cramped quarters has a little more room when its being occupied by the number of people its designed to be occupied by, two. Jevic slid in beside me on the bunk.

"What's up babe?" he said. He could just ooze happiness. I leaned over and kissed him. It was just a quick peck. I leaned back, smiled and then kissed him again, passionately. His arms wrapped around me and pulled me in tighter. As we broke our kiss, I looked deeply into his eyes.

"I just haven't been able to do that as much as I want to," I said.

"You can do that anytime you want to," he said grinning.

"And what if I want to do more than that," I said grabbing his crotch.

"Baby, I am all yours," Jevic said. Then he leaned in and kissed me. His tongue sought out mine and we started an erotic tongue dance. I could feel Jevic's hands roaming over my back, pulling me in closer. My hands were roaming a little lower on Jevic's back. I grabbed a hand full of firm fleshy butt and squeezed hard. Jevic moaned through our kiss and pulled back. "So, my baby wants some of that huh?" I blushed furiously. "I want you to have it Cameron. I want you to make love to me. I need you to. I want us to be one again physically. I want you right now." Jevic pushed me back firmly to arms length. There was a new fire in his eyes that I hadn't seen before. Jevic grabbed my shirt and ripped it open. Buttons went flying everywhere. His gaze dropped to my chest and his hands quickly unbuttoned my pants. I had never seen him so aggressive ... and it turned me on.

"Jevic," I stammered as my zipper purred between his fingers opening to expose my boxers. He knelt down and nuzzled his face into my crotch. His fingers moved up and pulled on my boxers. I was hard as a rock and leaking precum like mad. Jevic looked up into my eyes as he took me into his mouth. The look on his face was of sheer pleasure. As he wrapped me with his hot mouth, his hands continued to pull at my clothes. It was all I could do to keep standing. I leaned back against the bed and I felt my clothes gather at my ankles. Jevic's hands moved up to my chest, rubbing over my nipples and bringing them to attention. I ran my fingers through his wonderfully soft hair and he bobbed back and forth. Suddenly, he dropped me from his mouth and stood up. His lips met mine and we locked into a savage kiss, tongues fighting for superiority, darting back and forth like fencing foils. We were both moaning loudly through our kiss. My breathing had become ragged. Jevic pushed my ripped shirt off my shoulders and then roughly shoved me back on the bed. He pulled his shirt over his head and discarded it on the floor. Leaning over quickly, he took me back into his mouth while he continued to take the rest of his clothes off. Jevic's tongue was working in overdrive as it swirled around, bringing every nerve ending to a state of pure bliss.

"There's a condom and some lube in that little bag on the shelf over you head," he panted after dropping me from his mouth, only to quickly take me back in. I reached over for the bag and pulled out a condom. Jevic watched as I tore it open. Then he came up for air and took the condom. He popped it into his mouth and smiled. I watched in amazement as Jevic grabbed me and lowered his mouth to the tip of my cock. Using his talented tongue, he unrolled the condom onto my cock until his nose was buried in my pubic hair.

"Whoa! That was awesome," I said. Jevic smiled and reached for the lube. He put a generous amount on my cock and reached behind to lubricate himself. Jevic crawled up onto the bed and straddled me. I took a deep breath, knowing what was about to happen. Never in my entire life had I ever been in someone. That was seconds away from changing. Jevic held my cock straight up and lowered himself slowly. I felt the tip of my cock touch his hot hole. He lowered himself even more and I felt my cock slowly being taken in to the hottest, tightest feeling in the world. Jevic continued to lower himself and suddenly I felt him relax as I sank about half way in. He took a sharp breath, paused, and then smiled down at me.

"Feel good?" he asked.

"Jevic, I ..." started to answer but he suddenly pushed himself all the way down, completely taking my cock deep inside. I gasped out loud. "Ooh baby," I whispered. Jevic pulled back up and then pushed back down, gently at first, but he was quick to increase his rhythm until he was riding me like a cowboy rides a bucking bronco. He was sweating profusely and moaned loudly with each downward thrust.

I could feel the familiar burn start to build slowly beneath my balls. It wouldn't be long. Jevic's moans took on a new sound, one of pure lust and need. He was close too. I grabbed him roughly by the shoulders. Jevic looked at me with wild eyes. I pushed him off of me and onto his back. Quickly, I moved into position and put his legs over my shoulders. I entered him with ease and we began making love with a steady rhythm. I leaned forward and our lips met. Our passionate kiss was intermingled with moans of pleasure. Breaking our kiss, I leaned back up and grabbed his legs. Then I unleashed a savage assault, pounding my cock deep into his ass over and over again.

"Oh yeah Cameron! Fuck me hard baby! I'm close. Oh God, I'm close!" That turned me on so much that I felt a sudden wave of pleasure start to build rapidly. Then my tingling came up suddenly and intensely. It surrounded us and pulled us into a realm of absolute pure physical pleasure and we both exploded in wave after wave of orgasmic release. It seemed to go on and on. I pumped my cock into his ass filling the condom while he pumped out spurt after hot spurt of creamy cum onto his chest. The exhaustion hit us both like a ton of bricks. I collapsed onto his chest and then slowly slid off to one side fighting desperately to catch my breath.

"So, there's a nice sunset tonight huh?"

"Yeah, Joel said there's a big cloud formation to the west. The reflection of the setting sun off the clouds should be awesome."

"Well, let's go then," I said standing up and finishing tucking my shirt in. We kissed quickly then Jevic took my hand and I followed him topside where quite a few people had gathered. We sat down on the deck next to Joel and Paulik. Even Scott and Brandon decided to join us. The breeze felt good and the sea was calm. The perfect setting for a setting. The clouds reached far into the sky and were reflecting the orange glow of the sun.

The tranquil peace of a beautiful sunset was suddenly interrupted by an ear-shattering boom from overhead. It sounded like a bolt of lightening striking a tree right outside your bedroom window. We all immediately looked up. A large round shape emerged from the clouds and slowly descended toward us. Everyone on deck scrambled for the hatch. Three dozen people don't exactly pass through a three by three opening very fast. Jevic and I helped people through the hatch while Joel and Paulik tried to keep them calm. Brandon and Scott stood holding each other, completely mesmerized as the giant globe shaped object, which must have been at least three football field lengths in size, slowly descend to the ocean surface. It was accompanied by a low drone sound. I looked up as the last person descended into the ship to see Joel and Paulik also watching. I glanced over at Jevic.

"What the hell!?!" I yelled over the ever increasing drone sound. He shrugged his shoulders. I looked over at Paulik. "Paulik!" I called out. He and Joel looked over at me. "What is it?"

"Company!" Paulik yelled back. The giant globe gently came to a stop just a few feet above the surface about a hundred yards from our ship. A small opening appeared near the bottom and a silvery object came out. It moved toward us slowly.

"Cameron," said Scott. "That looks like what we saw the night in the parking lot." He was right. Although Jevic had never shown it to me, I knew that it was some type of spacecraft. He had told me that he couldn't mind travel from the orbital station because it was too dangerous. He brought me back to the parking lot in a craft that looked much like the one that now hovered just above the deck of our ship. It slowly descended and landed lightly on the deck with a metallic thud. A door, for lack of a better explanation, opened. Paulik walked over and offered his hand. A hand came out to meet his, which he grabbed. Then he helped her out. Dressed in a long flowing gown that shimmered the last few rays of the setting sun, she was absolutely radiant.

Paulik helped her out of the craft and onto the deck of the ship. They hugged like old friends, long and affectionately. Joel stood by patiently, smiling, and waiting for his turn. His hug was just as affectionate. They talked quietly among themselves, and then she turned to look at Jevic. She smiled broadly. The quiet conversation continued. Scott and Brandon joined us by the hatch.

"Who is she? Is she a Watcher?" asked Brandon.

"I have no idea," answered Jevic. "But she obviously knows my dad and Joel."

"Where's she from?" asked Scott. Jevic shrugged his shoulders. The three adults turned and walked toward the boys. All three of them were smiling and that was unsettling.

"Jevic," started Paulik. "I want you to meet a very special person. This is Bahar. She was my wife. And ... she's your mother." Jevic was obviously stunned. I would be too. Bahar's smile toned down a bit and then she spoke.

"Jevic, I know this is a shock. I wish our meeting could have been under different circumstances. For that, I apologize." Jevic reached out to me for support and I put my arm around him. Bahar looked over at me and smiled. It was a genuine smile, nothing fake about it. I sensed nothing but good from her. Then she looked back at her son. Jevic was still reeling from the news.

"Let's go inside. It'll be more comfortable," suggested Joel.

"Excellent idea Joel, thank you," she said. We all started down through the hatch with Scott and Brandon bringing up the rear. Scott stopped long enough to secure the hatch and then headed to join us all in the captain's salon. He met Brandon at the entrance and they both paused. This was, after all, a personal time for Jevic, but Paulik waved them in. The salon was a beautifully decorated room with rich upholstery and wonderfully hand carved exotic woods. Bahar took a seat between Joel and Paulik on the couch. Jevic and I took the loveseat. Brandon and Scott settled into the single chairs.

"Jevic. Your mother is the chairwoman of the Kelmar Supreme Council. She's here because the planet harmonizer was destroyed. It automatically sent out a distress beacon notifying our home planet of Kelmar that it had been destroyed. Your mom's here to find out why. That's why I wanted all you boys here." Then he turned to Jevic. "I'm sorry, but I didn't know that your mother would be coming to investigate or I would have said something." Jevic nodded.

"He has my eyes Paulik," she said. For the first time, I looked, really looked at her eyes and she was right. The same beautiful piercing green eyes that I had looked into so many times were also looking at me from across the room. "And he also has your good taste in men." Joel and I both blushed. That comment seemed to lighten the mood a bit. "OK, who wants to tell me what the hell went on here to totally destroy the entire complex."

"I'm afraid I'm going to have to take responsibility for that," I started. She sat up straight on the couch, obviously surprised. We all took turns explaining what had happened during the battle. We had done it so often that we accurately recalled it without leaving out any details. When the story had been told, she sat back on the couch and sighed. Then she turned to Paulik.

"You should have called for help," she said.

"It was a consideration, but things escalated too quickly for you to arrive in time. Besides, you have your hands full with the Shifters."

"They have been more than a handful. Just last week they mounted a major offensive on Kutal and just about leveled the city." Paulik looked shocked.

"Your parents live in Kutal."

"They're OK. They barely escaped, but thousands died in the attack."

"The last I heard, you had negotiated a peaceful agreement with them."

"They broke it almost as soon as the negotiations were completed. I just don't know what we're going to do. Their forces are spread all over the planet and they move in underground circles. They're very difficult to detect." Paulik shook his head. Bahar looked over at Jevic. "What I'd really like to do right now is get to know Jevic a little better. That is, if he wants to," she said hopefully. Jevic looked up at her and then dropped his eyes. I nudged him gently. He looked over at me. I nodded my head, urging him to spend some time with her. Jevic timidly looked back up.

"That would be OK, but I want Cameron to be with me." Bahar smiled and nodded her approval.

"Would you gentlemen excuse us for a little bit please," she announced to everyone else. Paulik and Joel stood up and started for the door. Brandon and Scott got up and followed them. "Brandon. Scott," she said. Both boys stopped and turned toward her. "Thank you. Thank you very much. We all felt that the human race is made up of good people and you two reinforce that belief. I am honored to know you." They both blushed, thanked her for her words, and then shuffled out the door. With the room left to us, Bahar turned her attention to her son. "So Jevic, I guess this is pretty much a surprise."

"You could say that," he said matter of factly.

"Let me tell you what happened sixteen years ago." Jevic nodded. "I was on the supreme council and there was a movement to get me appointed to the chair, but there was also opposition. They opposed my appointment because they felt with family obligations, I would be unable to give one hundred percent of my time. Your father and I had a wonderful relationship, but after eight years, we were beginning to go in different directions. He came to me one day and told me that he had met someone. That someone was Joel. I wasn't as upset as I thought that I would be, but I found out a few days later that I was pregnant with you." She stood up and walked over to the view port. She reached up and lightly touched the surface as the fish swam peacefully by, apparently deep in thought. Perhaps remembering times long since past. Then she turned and faced us. "It was a difficult time Jevic. Your father offered to take you and raise you with Joel. At first, I was very skeptical, but after meeting Joel ... I eventually agreed. I could see in Joel the love that your father and I shared when we were first married." She walked over and knelt down in front of Jevic. I saw a tear slip down her face. "You know, I'm the one that gave you your name," she said softly. Jevic looked into her eyes. "It was my great grandfather's name and I always thought that it was a beautiful name." I could tell that this was very difficult for her. Jevic had given her no sign of how he felt about the whole thing. I couldn't even tell how he felt. He was confused, hurt, perhaps still in shock, but not mad.

"Paulik and Joel are the only parents that I have ever known," he finally said. "I always knew that I had to have a mother, but we never discussed it and I never asked about it ... I mean, I never asked about you." Bahar smiled and more tears flowed down her cheeks. She slowly stood up and looked down at her son.

"Jevic. You are my flesh and blood. Nothing will ever change that." Jevic suddenly stood up, looked her in the eye and then timidly put his arms around her and pulled her into a hug. Bahar immediately hugged him back. Tears flowed easily and mother and son touched for the first time in sixteen years. My heart went out to Jevic. I knew that this was a huge shock. I stood up and watched as they hugged. Feeling awkward, I felt like I needed to give them some space and started toward the door.

"Cameron, please don't leave," Bahar said. I turned around and she smiled at me. Then she waved me over. "You're the one Jevic has chosen to share his life with. You should be part of this too." And then she hugged me too. We released our embrace and Jevic immediately put his arms around me. "I need to talk with Paulik now, but I'll be back. OK?" I nodded at her and she quietly left the room. When the door closed, an avalanche of emotion poured out of my lover. I held him tightly and let him cry it out. He had been emotionally blindsided and I wanted to make the hurt and confusion go away. As his sobs slowed, I eased my tight hug.

"Baby. It's going to be OK," I said softly.

"I-I know," he choked.

"I love you Jevic. I'll protect you and take care of you."

"I-I know Cameron. This was just a ... a great big shock."

"I know, but she certainly seems nice and seems to care a great deal. I'm sure this is hard on her too."

"You're right."

"And Jevic, you did get your eyes from her," I said with a smile. He blinked through the remaining tears and smiled back. I reached up and wiped the tears from his cheeks.

"Thanks babe." He hugged me again and I pulled him close. The door suddenly opened. Scott and Brandon looked in, not knowing what to expect. I waved them on in.

"Jevic, are you all right dude?" asked Scott walking up to us.

"Yeah, I'm OK."

"Damn, talk about surprises," said Brandon. "Are you sure you're OK?"

"Yeah, I really am. Thanks guys. Its great to have such good friends." The door opened again and Joel walked in.

"Hey guys. Are you OK Jevic?" he asked very concerned.

"I'm fine Joel, thanks." Joel came over and gave Jevic a big hug.

"I love you son. You know that don't you?" Joel asked quietly.

"Of course I do and I love you too. Where's Paulik?" Jevic called his dads by their first names. It was less confusing that way.

"He's spending some time with Bahar, but he wants us to spend some time together soon."

"I'd like that," said Jevic.

"Paulik, tell me more about Cameron," said Bahar as they sat down in a secluded corner of the cafeteria. Paulik smiled.

"I saw the look on your face when the boys were recanting the story of the battle."

"Paulik, these kinds of powers haven't been seen in centuries."

"You haven't seen them first hand. He's incredible." Paulik continued to tell Bahar about all of the amazing feats including the parallel mind connection.

"And he's how old?"

"Just turned sixteen about six weeks ago."

"My God! He's six weeks into his power maturity and he's already doing all this? A year from now he'll be ... "

"I know. He doesn't realize any of this yet. And the real kicker is, he has compassion, a very human trait."

"I want him to come back with me."

"What?"

"I need him Paulik. This war with the Shifters is getting out of hand. Someone with Cameron's ability could bring this whole affair to an end."

"You know what that means?"

"What?"

"He and Jevic are very much in love."

"Oh."

"Inseparable love."

"Oooh."

"Oh is right. And did I mention that the human boys will probably stay here as well? And that means ..."

"It's a package deal."

"Exactly."

"Are you ready to deal with a son, his lover, and their best friends?" Bahar thought no more than a few seconds.

"If it means ending this war with the Shifters, yes."

"There's going to be a lot more than a war to deal with. I love them both very much and letting them go would be very difficult. Plus, the final decision will have to be theirs."

"I agree. I don't want to force anything on anyone, especially Jevic. He's grown into quite a handsome young man."

Bahar and Paulik discussed plans for rebuilding the Watcher complex. The ship that brought Bahar was a transport ship. The 50,000 ton 'Cyclopean' carried many pre-built sections of a new underwater complex. In addition, many families had volunteered to come and were on board. They were anxious to begin their new lives as Watchers.

As soon as a suitable location was found, engineers started to work assembling the new complex. In a matter of a just a week, enough sections were in place for everyone on the old Talon ship to move into their new quarters. Work progressed for another week and three hundred new earth inhabitants moved their belongings into the new complex. The last thing to be installed was a new planet harmonizer. Kibbeth was transferred to the holding facility aboard the cargo ship. He and the other surviving Talons were to be taken back for trial.

During the days of the construction, the boys, including Shane, spent a lot of time together. Our relationships and friendships deepened. Both Scott and Brandon gave a lot of thought to returning to their "human" lives, but both decided that there was nothing to return to. They made new friends almost daily and were settling into a comfortable life. Little did any of us know that life was soon to be disrupted.

"Cameron," started Jevic. I looked up. "Do you like our new quarters?" I just smiled. I got up and joined him by the view port. Pulling him into a hug, I kissed him gently on the lips.

"Jevic. I would be happy anywhere as long as I was with you." We hugged again and turned to admire our new home. It was very similar to Jevic's original quarters before we moved into the dignitary suite. The center room was cozy. We had a couch, love seat and several chairs. There was a large view port too. The bedroom and bathroom were off to one side and the kitchen off to the other. It wasn't the dignitary suite, but it was ours. The doorbell sounded and we looked over at the screen. Scott, Brandon and Shane were in the hallway.

"Open," I called out and the door immediately opened.

"Hey guys!" called out Scott as they walked in. "Cool place. Ours is just about like it, but you've got a better view."

"You guys got a place of your own?" I asked.

"Yeah, its pretty cool and its all ours. Shane even showed us how to use the food processor," said Scott.

"I wish it made burgers and fries," said Brandon smiling.

"You should have seen him trying to get it to make a burger. Everytime he punched in the commands, the processor interpreted it the only way it knew how and made tofu," laughed Shane.

"Have you been down to the arcade yet?" asked Scott.

"No way! They rebuilt the Shack?" Jevic asked.

"They've got virtual reality games down there that make the ones at the mall look like shit!" said Scott excitedly.

"The mall?" asked Shane.

"Yeah, that's where Greg and I ..." Scott stopped suddenly and dropped his head down, looking at the floor.

"Where you and Greg what?" asked Shane. Brandon put his arm around Scott and looked over at Shane. A single tear rolled down Brandon's cheek.

"Uh, Shane," I said. He looked over at me not knowing what to think. "Sad memories. I'll tell ya later." The door chime rang and I looked over to see Paulik's face on the monitor. "Jevic, it's your dad." Jevic called for the door to open and Paulik, Joel and Bahar walked in.

"Great, I'm glad you're all together. We need to have a little talk," said Paulik as they made their way over to greet us. "Why don't we all sit down for a little bit?" he suggested. The adults took the couch. Brandon and Scott took the loveseat. Shane, Jevic and myself sat on the floor.

"So what's up?" asked Jevic.

"Do you remember me telling you about the Shifters?" asked Bahar. We all nodded. "They are a terrible, terrible force that even as we speak, is killing innocent people. Our peacekeeping forces are doing all they can do, but the problem just seems to keep getting worse."

"What do the Shifters want? I mean, why are they doing all this?" I asked.

"The Shifters want control. Isn't it always about that?" she said rhetorically. "I mean, they don't like what the council is doing. They want things done differently. At first, they protested, which is anyone's right. But then they started using violence, and that's not anybody's right."

"I'm sorry Bahar. Maybe I'm slow, but I still don't understand exactly what they want you to do," I said.

"Let's just say they don't like they way we govern. They want us to govern in a way that does not suit us. We both have different ways of looking at things, which has escalated to the point that innocent people are being killed. We just can not allow it to continue."

"I certainly understand how you feel, but, excuse me, I don't think you answered my question," I said. "What specifically do they want you to do?"

"You are persistent aren't you?" she said rather tersely.

"I don't mean any disrespect. And I'm sorry that innocent people are being killed. I'm just trying to understand what this has to do with us?" I asked. Jevic gave one of those looks that said 'what the hell are you doing?'

"Cameron, to be blunt, we need your help, your team's help. After what I heard you guys did during the Talon attack, I just feel like you could help us with the Shifters." During the silence after that comment, you could have heard a pin drop, seventeen blocks away.

"Begging your pardon, but why do you think a bunch of kids can do any better than an entire peacekeeping force?" I asked. I got another glance from Jevic. Bahar sighed, gritted her teeth and then forced a smile.

"Cameron, you specifically have shown powers that haven't been seen in centuries. Your powers combined with the talents of your friends would be an awesome force."

"I'm flattered and I'm sure my friends are, but before we start kicking ass, I think it would be best if we knew why. So are you going to tell us specifically what the Shifters want or are you going to continue being a politician and evade the question?" Bahar abruptly stood up.

"I am certainly not used to being talked to like that and I'm not going to sit here and take it." She turned and immediately left the room. Jevic's look could have cut glass.

"What the hell was that all about?" he screamed as he stood up. I stood up too.

"I want to know! That's what hell its all about!" I screamed back.

"I don't like your attitude," he said coldly.

"Fuck you!" I said back. Paulik walked over between us.

"That's enough," he said sternly.

"You can tell your son over there that he needs to adjust HIS attitude." Jevic lunged for me, but Paulik caught him. I suddenly felt someone grab me from behind and hold me back.

"Easy there Cameron," Joel said. It was too late. I was pissed. I easily jerked myself free from his hold. He looked surprised at my sudden show of strength. I quickly moved away from him by jumping over the couch.

"Am I the only one here that was reading between the lines? There's something going on that she doesn't want to tell us and I don't like it."

"Cameron, there's no need to get upset," started Paulik, but I interrupted him.

"TOO LATE!" I said and turned for the door. Scott, Brandon and Shane just stood there with their mouths hanging open, not knowing what to do. Jevic's father continued to hold him back as he still struggled to get free. Joel looked at me as though I had gone absolutely mad. I stopped at the door and looked back. "I don't understand you people. The woman is obviously hiding something." Then I walked out the door.

"What the hell's wrong with him? I can't believe the way he acted," yelled Jevic as his father turned him loose.

"I don't understand it either," said a very perplexed Paulik. "I'm going to see if Bahar is all right."

"Can I come too? I want to apologize for Cameron," he asked.

"No, I think I need to talk to her alone Jevic." Paulik started for the door and then turned back. "There might just be something to what Cameron said and I'm going to find out." With that, he left the room.

Safe back in her personal quarters, Bahar turned to her communications station. She adjusted the settings for maximum security and started her transmission.

"This is Bahar. Are you there?"

"Yes, I'm here Madam Chairwoman."

"Things aren't going as easily as I had hoped. I may not be able to convince him to come willingly."

"Will you be needing my assistance?"

"No, not now. I'll be able to bring him, even if I have to force him."

"He won't use his powers willingly if you have to do that."

"You're right, but under the right persuasion, I think he'll come around. And I know the perfect way to persuade him."

"You know best Madam."

"Are you still close by?"

"Yes, we're in orbit around the planet Mars. We can be there in a half hour if you need us."

"Good. I don't think he would be foolish enough to use his powers on me, but if he does, I'll need you here immediately. Either way though, I'll keep you informed." The door chime rang out. "I've got to go."

"Very well. Stay in touch. We are standing by." She quickly ended the transmission and closed the panel. Looking up at the monitor she saw Paulik's face.

"Am I crazy?" I said to myself and I made my way toward the Shack. "Did I hear something completely different from everybody else? I don't think so. Bahar wasn't telling us the whole truth." I continued to think about it while walking down the corridors. Something didn't feel right. I sensed something in Bahar that I had not sensed before. I couldn't put my finger on it, but it was an uncomfortable feeling.

"Hey Cameron! Wait up!" I turned to see Shane running toward me, so I waited for him to catch up. He fell into stride with me as I, now we, continued our walk toward the Shack. "What was that all about?" he finally asked.

"I was sensing some real strange feelings from her. She was telling the truth, but not the whole truth, if you know what I mean."

"Ah, no. I don't know what you mean."

"Listen Shane. She was basically telling us the truth about what's going with the Shifters, but she wouldn't say why they're fighting. All she would say is that it's a fight for power. That doesn't make any sense. There's always a reason. Plus, I was feeling something from her that I can't quite explain. It's kinda weird, but I sensed that she knew a whole lot more than what she was saying. That's why I kept asking her."

"Now that you put it that way, it does make sense. She didn't really say why. All she did say was they she wanted us to help fight 'em and that doesn't make a lot of sense."

"Exactly. There's something rotten in Denmark."

"Huh?"

"Old human expression."

"Oh."

"Hey guys, wait up!" I turned around to see Scott and Brandon running up behind us. "Cameron! What was that all about?" said Brandon.

"Yeah, you really pissed your boyfriend off," said Scott. That was the one thing that I regretted most about the whole thing. I knew that Jevic had just met his mother and was going through a real emotional time and all, but I couldn't let this one just slip by.

"I know and I hate that I did, but he'll eventually understand and know the real truth."

"The real truth?" asked Scott.

"Yeah. Bahar is a woman with an agenda. She's a politician for Christ's sakes. She's only going to say what she thinks we want to hear, not what's really going on."

"Jeez, sounds like President Clinton saying a blowjob isn't sex," said Brandon. We all laughed at that one.

The impact knocked me to the ground and I found myself trying to catch my breath. Then came painful blows to my back. My tingling charged up and a wave went out knocking whatever was on my back off. I quickly rolled over on my side just in time to see Jevic slam hard against the far wall and slide down to the floor unconscious.

The Watchers is © 2003 by The Tarheel Writer.
    This work may not be duplicated in any form (physical, electronic, audio, or otherwise) without the author's written permission. All applicable copyright laws apply. All individuals depicted are fictional with any resemblance to real persons being purely coincidental.

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