Where Evil Dwells: Book of the Protectorates #2

By D. Jeremy Doraido

Not since his night of commitment had Jason Aurelius felt the sting of venom. Assembly Guardian Master Randolph was his unit supervisor, since he had chosen pediatric medicine. But they still weren’t friends. Randolph knew he was sending Jason Aurelius on his first home call alone with a strange Enforcer, and with disciplinary venom fresh in his veins. Enforcer Aaron considered it cruel and complained to Court. Without the young Healer having field training did it also leave them vulnerable to attack on their lives? After being injured and nearly dying, Jason Aurelius stood by Aaron in the hospital though it meant punishment from Guardian for disobeying a direct order. Their team of Healer-Enforcer had been made compatible, a joined unit by Frederick’s unique Supreme Guardian venom when she sent them forth to heal, as was their tradition. But they weren’t officially joined before Assembly. Still, Jason Aurelius considered it a blood promise. He was duty bound to protect Aaron’s life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu Publishing Services
• Release date: Jul 19, 2017
• ISBN: 9781483471426

Book preview

WHERE EVIL DWELLS

Book of the Protectorates #2

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil, for you are with me;

your rod and your staff they comfort me."

Psalm 23:4 NIV

D. Jeremy Doraido

Copyright © 2017 D. Jeremy Doraido.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted by any means—whether auditory, graphic, mechanical, or electronic—without written permission of the author, except in the case of brief excerpts used in critical articles and reviews. Unauthorized reproduction of any part of this work is illegal and is punishable by law.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

ISBN: 978-1-4834-7141-9 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4834-7142-6 (e)

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Cover picture by Kathy White Buckelew

The photo was taken in Limrock community near the small town of Woodville, which is located outside Scottsboro, Alabama.

web - wwwdoraidojeremy.com

email - [e-mail]

Lulu Publishing Services rev. date: 07/06/2017

Contents

Protectorate Chant

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Books by D. Jeremy Doraido

General Fiction:

Dream Catcher

Sanctuary

Adult Science Fiction:

With Darkness Come - Book of the Protectorates #1

Where Evil Dwells - Book of the Protectorates #2

In memory of dear friends who have help shape this book John Stewart, Timothy Payne, Muriel Trusheim and Miss White.

PROTECTORATE CHANT

Grant us inner peace as we serve our fellow man.

Help us to be merciful to those entrusted to our care.

By the oath of service, may we think not of ourselves,

But live a life of grace as members of these Protectorates.

And if the time should come, a choice we must make,

Let us pass with honor, our lives for those we serve.

Pray, grant us strength to remember our dreams of peace,

And keep the trust in safety till all unite once more.

CHAPTER 1

N OT SINCE HIS NIGHT OF COMMITMENT HAD HE FELT THE STING OF VENOM IN HIS blood.

Dropping to his knees in submission, Jason Aurelius bowed his head and folded his hands before his hood.

Reveal yourself, Elder, Randolph ordered, calmly.

Please, be merciful, Assembly Guardian Master. I was wrong to question your order. Jason Aurelius folded the massive cowl on his shoulders without looked up at his supervisor.

Tell me, Randolph said, as he purposely rose from his desk chair and took two steps towards the kneeling young man. Have I treated you with respect since you joined my service two months ago? Have I acknowledged your abilities, but also allowed for your clinical inexperience? And have I given my off duty hours to personally guide you in pediatric medicine? Answer me, Elder!

Jason Aurelius noticeably jumped, startled by his supervisor's outburst. I appreciate your devotion to my education, Assembly Guardian Master, he stammered.

And yet you ridiculed me when Morgan and Kinsley were present. What do you suppose they think of me?

I was wrong and will apologize to your staff. I should have requested a private conference rather than question you in the hallway when your Guardian Masters were listening.

Do you have a vitals patch, Elder?

In my pocket.

Stand and remove your robe, then place the patch on your left arm.

With trembling hands, Jason Aurelius attempted to untie his red sash. He was determined not to loose control. I've never been charged, Assembly Guardian Master. Please be merciful.

I consulted your record, Randolph said, extending his hand to take the robe and place it on a peg beside his own. Sit on the floor and cross your legs. It takes approximately ten minutes for the venom to burn itself out. I will monitor vitals. Remain still and breathe normally.

Jason Aurelius folded his hands in his lap and bowed his head. Eyes closed, he prayed for strength to endure Randolph's venom without crying out. Ten minutes. Much better to have faced Leland for his first charging. Healer to the Enforcers never gave more than a minute worth of venom. And he always cleared it with his thoughts.

Do you wish to have your guardian paged to offer comfort, Elder? You have that right, Randolph said, squatting down to consult the readings on the patch.

I would rather not involve him. Jason Aurelius heard the mocking tone in Randolph's voice. Though the man appeared devoted to his education, they still weren't friends.

Extend your right arm, palm up. The filament snaked out of the sleeve of his green scrub shirt, the tip a fiery red. This is long overdue, Elder.

Please, Jason Aurelius whispered, as Randolph touched the snake bite mark on his arm. After seven months of lying dormant, the venom in his blood came alive. Pain slammed into his chest nearly taking his breath away. He cried out in surprise, then bowed his head and panted.

Slow your breathing, Elder, Randolph said, watching the numbers on the vitals patch. If you intend to wear the Beam unit full time, you must learn to control the venom. Perhaps Raymond was wrong, he said, rising from the floor. I still think you're a child. But I was overruled.

I will be a Beam Healer, Jason Aurelius replied, raising his head to address Randolph.

Maybe. Guardian Master leaned against the desk, his violet-blue eyes staring at the young elder. Have you soiled yourself?

No.

Randolph's dark black, curly hair was still damp from showering, and his scrubs smelled laundry fresh. He walked over to the small refrigerator and took out a bottle of clear juice. Then he filled a tall glass and returned the bottle to the refrigerator. With a side glance at Elder, he placed it on his desk. This is for after you vomit the venom.

You're enjoying my misery! Jason Aurelius said through clenched teeth, as it attacked his genitals.

Elder, if I truly wanted to humiliate you, I would have petitioned Morgan and Kinsley to watch. And I would not have locked the door.

Jason Aurelius struggled to sit up straight. Forgive me.

I do, Elder. Is your underwear still clean?

No, he whispered, embarrassed to admit the truth.

Randolph nodded, then leaned forward to check the vitals patch. I have three home calls for you today. Shower and dress for the field, then meet me in the clinic office.

The venom had almost burned itself out, but he was cautious not to move until Randolph suggested it was safe. He had no desire to faint and crack his head open on the desk, requiring Guardian Master's care.

Where are we going?

Not we, Elder. It's time you went without a senior Healer member to hold your hand. You've been to the Murphy's and Roberts' homes with Quentin. The Stuffers may prove a challenge, but I think you'll learn from the experience.

Randolph put his robe on and tied the sash. Then he raised his hood and darkened it to black. I trust we won't have to meet for discipline again.

He was out the door before Jason Aurelius could respond.

Master Aaron, Jason Aurelius mumbled aloud, as he clung to the couch, struggling to stand up.

His stomach turned sour with venom, or perhaps it was the thought of going on home call with his dedicated Enforcer. He hadn't seen the man since his elder presentation. Actually they hadn't met face-to-face even then. It had been a mistake to delay becoming acquainted. Hadn't Timothy suggested he seek Aaron out? Now he must spend his first day alone in the field with a stranger.

As he reached for his robe, the venom illness made his stomach heave. Covering his mouth with his hand, he ran for Randolph's small bathroom. Twice he was sick. But at least he felt better once the venom was out of his stomach.

Home call, he muttered, while drying his face on a towel. Randolph certainly knows how to send me off. I will wear the black sash! And he will help me.

Perspiration stained his scrubs. He attempted to clean himself enough to walk through the halls of the hospital. His black curls clung to his head, glistening with dampness.

I'll prove him wrong! he said, throwing the towel in the hamper and picking up his robe. But first, there's Aaron.

He left the glass of juice untouched on Randolph's desk. So as not to inflict his offensive body odors on others, he used the steps rather than the elevator. By the time he reached the first floor and walked down the long corridor to clinic, he was shaking all over. He would shower and grab a quick bite to eat before reporting to Randolph.

The clinic hallway was unlit except at the reception desk.

He flipped on the light switches, as the fire doors closed behind him, then realized a middle aged woman with a young child in her arms was standing near one of the examining rooms. A robed elder was attempting to guide her back down the hallway.

If you will have a seat in the waiting area, we'll be with you in about ten minutes.

Why can't you tend my son, now? Aren't you qualified, Healer? He just needs a few stitches removed from his arm. My husband is waiting in the wagon. I was told this would only take a couple minutes.

It's still early for clinic. If you'll have a seat, I'll pull your records and make sure you're seen first.

I don't want my child sitting out there with low class filth, picking up lice and what-have-you. I know my rights, Healer. I demand you tend my baby!

I'll see to your son. Bring the boy in here, Jason Aurelius said, opening the door to an examining room and turning on the lights. Elder, bring me the file, please.

Barlow nodded his covered head, acknowledging the request.

I intend to notify your superiors, Elder! the woman threatened, touching Barlow's emblem with her forefinger.

You have that right, Madame, but I think you would prefer I remain anonymous to your son. Excuse me, please, Barlow said, bowing to her, as he turned to leave.

The woman stared after him, clutching the child tightly against her massive bosom, then hurried into the examining room.

Who was that man, Mommy? the boy asked, as she seated him on the table and began to remove his sweater.

No one, Jamie. Just forget him!

Is he bad, Mommy? Did he hurt you? The little boy's brown eyes were wide with fear.

Jason Aurelius removed his robe and began scrubbing his hands. It wasn't his place to become involved.

Come on, Jamie. Daddy has a surprise for your birthday. Healer is going to see to your arm, then we'll be out of this place and on our way home.

Is it a pony, Mommy? Can I name him?

Of course you may, dear.

As Jason Aurelius held his hands under the automatic dispenser, allowing a inch round puddle of liquid to fill his palms for a pair of surgical gloves. Barlow opened the door and placed the boy's folder on the side counter. He turned to the entry concerning the child's accident so Jason Aurelius wouldn't get his sterile hands soiled.

Randolph is waiting to speak with you when you're finished here, Jason Aurelius.

Get away from my baby! the woman screamed, hugging the boy and glaring at Barlow. If you come near us again, I'll file a petition with Assembly!

Forgive me, Madame. It was not my intention to disturb you or your son. Barlow maintained total darkness, as he reached for the door pull. Do you require anything else, Jason Aurelius?

I don't think so. Thank you for assisting me.

What's wrong, Mommy? the boy cried.

He's not a nice man, Jamie. I don't want you to talk to him. Promise me you won't, she said, while watching Jason Aurelius tend her baby.

Why?

Just promise me, she insisted.

I want Daddy, the boy sobbed.

How old are you today, Jamie? Jason Aurelius asked, tossing his gloves in the container under the counter.

Six.

You'll be going to school soon, Elder replied, opening a drawer and removing a box of miniature, wooden animals.

He will not! I intend to educate my son at home where he'll be safe.

You have that right, Madame, Jason Aurelius said, glancing up at her as he opened the box for the boy to see. Our Enforcers carve these for the children. Jamie is welcome to have one.

Can I, Mommy? Maybe there's a horse.

Elder left the two of them to look through the box while he sat down to make his entry in the boy's file. The door opened. Quentin removed his hood as he stood behind Elder.

I didn't know you were in clinic today, Jason Aurelius.

I'm covering for Barlow, he replied, handing the folder to Master. I removed the sutures.

Quentin glanced down the page, nodding approval. Good-day, Mrs. MacDonald. How is your arm, James?

All better, the child said, extending his arm for Quentin to inspect. Today is my birthday. He gave me a horse. Daddy has a real one for me.

Have there been any problems, Mrs. MacDonald? Quentin asked, placing the folder on the examining table so he could check the boy's arm.

Only with your clinic staff.

How so? Quentin's dark eyes glared at Jason Aurelius.

I don't want Elder Barlow near my son! If I so much as see him nod to Jamie, I'll file a petition with Assembly and have him removed from this Protectorate. Do you understand?

Elder is forbidden to tend your child, Madame, Quentin replied, pleasantly smiling at her.

He came in here! she shouted, pointing at the door.

Quentin looked at Jason Aurelius. Is that true, Elder?

Barlow was alone in clinic. She insisted on immediate attention, so I treated the child. He brought me the child's file, then left.

Did he remove his hood or reveal himself?

He remained covered, Master.

I didn't have to see his face to know who he was, Mrs. MacDonald retorted. Don't you think I would recognize… She paused and looked at Jamie. I know his voice.

Barlow is a pediatrician. He's assigned clinic duties. If you would prefer, I can place your son on home call visits.

And have our taxes increased because of him? My husband won't agree to that.

Quentin shook his head. We'll absorb the difference.

Who will you send? I certainly hope it won't be that foul smelling freak, she said, glaring at Elder. If he comes near our home my husband will shoot him, Healer emblem or not.

I'll come myself, Quentin said, making a note in the child's file. You're excused, Elder. See that you shower before your next duty.

Jason Aurelius raised his hood and darkened it completely. He contemplated explaining his strong body odors, but decided she wouldn't understand. Master recognized the aroma of venom.

The clinic hallway was busy with activity. Jason Aurelius did his best to avoid members and citizens as he made his way to Randolph's office. He couldn't help but wonder how his home call patients would react when he removed his hood. If only Frederick would permit a change of his eye color from bright yellow to a soothing blue. But she held him to his oath by keeping his outward appearance that of a virus freak. She justified her decision saying his vision wasn't affected, therefore, the procedure would be a waste of valuable energy for a Beam Healer. Wasn't venom charging also a waste? Discipline was essential to maintaining order in the Protectorate, was her reply. He didn't ask again.

Forgive me for keeping you waiting, Guardian Master, Jason Aurelius apologized, as he entered Randolph's office. "I was…

Barlow told me. Come in and close the door. The ruby in his emblem seemed to glare at the young elder, threatening another dose of venom. Here are the files you'll need. The youngest Murphy boy is complaining of a sore throat and fever. The two oldest Roberts boys are ill with the same symptoms. The Stuffers have six children requiring BT-boosters. Mr. Stuffer needs sutures removed. The youngest child, Margaret, has a sore throat and fever.

We've seen a number of cases in clinic this week.

And in the membership population, Guardian Master said, acknowledging Elder's statement. Keep your Enforcer close at all times. Mr. Stuffer is not sympathetic to Healers. He's caused numerous disturbances in clinic. That's why the entire family is on home call. Do your duty as Healer and maintain a reserved manner. Do not cause trouble, Elder!

I'll heed your warning.

Come closer and remove your hood, he instructed, not rising from his desk. Were you ill after I left? His violet-blue eyes searched Elder's pale face for the truth.

Yes.

How do you feel?

A little weak.

Did you drink the juice?

My stomach was too upset.

Get something to eat. He handed Jason Aurelius a brown case for the files. I don't take pleasure inflicting pain.

I was wrong to provoke you, Guardian Master.

Randolph settled back in his chair and stared at Jason Aurelius. That wasn't the first time you've questioned my authority. I've been lenient, Elder. Know that I will not do so again. If you humiliate me with others present, I will charge you while they watch. I'm not Raymond. Perhaps he chooses to overlook your rude behavior, that's his decision. This is my service.

Forgive me, Guardian Master.

As long as you're one of my elders, you will answer to me. Do I make myself clear? His voice remained calm though his brow was deeply furrowed, and his eyes blazed with anger.

I will obey, Guardian Master, Jason Aurelius replied, bowing his head. I fear this wasn't the best way to show my appreciation for your accepting me in pediatrics.

I admire your determination to become a Beam Healer. You have a brilliant mind. While you're on home call today, think about this conversation. If you can't give me the respect due, transfer off my service. An undisciplined Healer will surely get himself and his Enforcer killed. Remain alert and allow Master Aaron to guide you. I've discussed it with him. You will submit yourself to his orders. Randolph rose from his desk and pulled up his hood. You're excused, Elder.

Aren't you going to give me the Healer Blessing?

Morgan's on duty. I was scheduled to sign off three hours ago. I'm going to bed before I collapse.

Without so much as a good-day, Randolph ushered him out the door.

Jason Aurelius had been on duty since midnight. The entire time, Randolph insulted him, questioning every move he made. But when the young elder grew weary of the constant harassment, and asked why he was being singled out, Randolph took it as a personal insult.

Perhaps he should have requested a private moment rather than in the middle of the hallway when Kinsley and Morgan were listening. True, he was tired from double shifts and cramming for classes in his off duty hours. Maybe he had been careless and deserved Randolph's reprimands.

Deep in thought, Jason Aurelius entered the staff lounge. Barlow was seated at the table drinking a cup of tea. He looked up at his friend, then set the mug on the table.

Is she gone?

Quentin is talking to her in the hallway.

I dare anyone to remind me of my birthday today! They couldn't wait for him to be born naturally, so now my birthday is a constant reminder of what I did to my son. He returned his attention to the mug, slowly running his forefinger around the rim. Maybe I should request a transfer to another Protectorate.

I would hate to see you leave.

Barlow nodded, but didn't look up.

Quentin placed the boy on home call.

They'll never agree to the extra charge.

Protectorate is going to absorb the difference.

He's my son. I'll cover the expense.

They forced you to have the child?

I could have refused, but I was an obedient son. They have their boy and I have my nightmares. I was wrong to go along with their demands. When they wouldn't sign my release, I should have run away. I had opportunities. My own child doesn't know me.

He seems healthy, Jason Aurelius said, not sure of a better response.

Someone will be assigned home call and not be compensated. He raised his eyes to question his younger friend. Is it you?

Quentin. Jason Aurelius couldn't bring himself to tell how Barlow's mother had insulted him.

I'll speak to Quentin after clinic. Barlow stood and pushed his chair into the table. Thank you for care given to my son, Healer. I would appreciate you not mentioning our conversation to anyone else.

Jason Aurelius watched him leave the room. He couldn't remember his own mother. Though she had held him close while nursing the sick infant, he had no memory of what it was like to be nurtured by a woman. All he had were dreams.

CHAPTER 2

H OME CALL, JASON AURELIUS MUTTERED TO HIMSELF, AS HE GATHERED CLEAN clothes. No one else was in the locker room, so he continued to talk aloud. Master Aaron. Timothy was right. I should have at least. . . What? Had midday with him? That's a good way to lose my appetite. Most of those guys eat like pigs, shoveling it in as if they haven't had food in days. I'll do the home calls as quickly as possible, then get rid of him. No one says we have to socialize.

He began to lather his torso, wishing he had grabbed something to eat first. But to do so meant inflicting his offensive body odors on those present in the dining room. The stares and whispers he endured because of his eyes kept him on guard when in the company of others, even members. Brandon warned him about the slanderous remarks of his patients. Fortunately not all were rude. Some of the citizens in his care actually treated him with Healer respect.

Though he had lived in Protectorate less than a year, he was a fourth year elder. His clinical skills were numerous and he continued to learn. Raymond had requested his presence on several deliveries. Medicine fascinated him. Like an obsessed man, he pulled double shifts and studied constantly when not in class.

Frederick thought she held him to the oath by his eye color, but his desire to become a Guardian Master Beam Healer negated thoughts of Wizard and home. Hunger for knowledge kept him to his commitment of service. To heal with thoughts seemed impossible, but he had witnessed Beam surgery and seen the near miraculous results.

I will be a Beam Healer, with or without Randolph's help! Guardian will. . .

Suddenly he felt exhausted. All he wanted to do was sit on the floor and allow the water to run over his head and body. What will Morgan say when she comes looking for me? he asked himself, leaning against the wall.

The shower appeared to be draining what little energy he had after the charging. Without hesitation, he turned off the hot and cold, then reached out of the curtain for his towel. Someone brushed against his hand. Terrified, he withdrew.

Not again! he said aloud, backing up against the wall.

Is this what you want, Healer? The curtain moved just enough to admit the white towel, then closed to permit privacy. Sorry if I startled you, a deep hoarse voice stated. Morgan said to look for you here. Is there anything I may do, Healer?

Thank you, no, Enforcer, Jason Aurelius replied, stepping out, hastily drying his body.

I brought this for you. He handed Jason Aurelius a glass of pale yellowish-white liquid.

What is it? And what am I to do with it?

It's eggnog, Healer. I thought you might be hungry. Those of my House consider it beneficial after venom. I wouldn't harm you. Go ahead and drink it.

You have me at a disadvantage, Enforcer. You are?

Your dedicated, he replied, bowing his covered head. Forgive me for not properly introducing myself. Enforcer removed his helmet and face mask revealing a reddish-brown complexion on his round face. His straight hair was jet black and his eyes looked more black than brown. Aaron's features were broad, but becoming. His neck was thick, set on massive shoulders. Healer was dwarfed by his six-foot-four frame. He weighed close to three hundred pounds.

Jason Aurelius raised the glass to his mouth. The taste was pleasant.

Give me the towel, Healer. Your back is wet.

While Jason Aurelius continued to drink, savoring the sweetness of the eggnog, Aaron gently saw to his Healer. Putting the towel aside, he massaged Healer's tense shoulder muscles. First chargings are cruel. Why did Randolph have to do it when you were going on home call? He could have waited till we returned. What does he have against you?

He's my supervisor.

That's not an answer, it's an excuse. Why did you choose pediatrics? You had other offers.

I love helping the children.

Forgive me, Healer. I won't ask again. Aaron handed Jason Aurelius his underwear. He just really … ! Forgive me. I forget myself at times. You know it took courage for a Novice to demand Healer-Enforcer rights. Randolph attempted to convince me that you were a belligerent son-of-a … Sorry, I forgot. I almost believed him until I saw your record and your hands.

I'm surprised my file didn't convince you of my stupidity. Not many Novices involve Frederick in guardianship matters.

And not many pass the Master's finals. I'm honored that you accepted my petition to join. Again he bowed his head. I know it was not your idea, Healer. I hope in time you will come to trust me.

I have heard of your devotion to my House, Enforcer, Jason Aurelius replied, while continuing to dress in shirt and slacks.

I sat on you, Healer. I almost broke your ribs.

Brandon instructed me to find an Enforcer that scares the living daylights out of me. Healer eyed the huge man.

Sorry, Aaron replied in a subdued voice. If you'd rather have someone else. . .

And shame both of us? Besides, the only other Enforcer I know who isn't joined is the. . . Jason Aurelius stopped dead, afraid to finish his sentence and seem ungrateful.

Who?

It's foolish. The Chapel flutist. I love his music.

That old man! You'd trust a flutist to guard you? Aaron threw up his hands and turned aside.

I told you it was stupid of me. I talked to him once as a Novice, but he probably doesn't even remember.

What did he ever do for you? Aaron grumbled.

He spoke kindly when I was desperate. In repayment, I saved him from a charging. But if he's old, it's ridiculous of me to fantasize a joining with him.

I'm sure he would be honored to think a young Healer would consider him worthy. I could introduce the two of you.

Don't bother. Sometimes dreams are better left as such. I will join with you, Enforcer. That is if you still consider me worthy.

I will protect you with my life blood. Aaron began removing his shoulder holster and vest. I must show you something, Healer. Perhaps you didn't know at the time, but I had just come off medical leave. I almost died last summer. With the drink of water, you were the only one to show compassion. I'm just an expendable Enforcer.

What happened to your throat and chest? Jason Aurelius asked, the Healer nature demanding his fingers inspect the extensive scar. Surely your Healers were compassionate.

They performed their duties. Enforcers are trained to endure hardships. I have refused all Healers until you.

A lowly Elder and a Master?

Not for long. Within the year you will wear blue.

I'm not qualified. Randolph will never recommend me. Jason Aurelius began pulling up his hood, but left it light. You haven't told me how you were injured.

One of my Students tried to kill me with a lead pipe. She hit me in the throat, Aaron replied, beginning to dress.

A member attacked you?

I let my guard down. We were street fighting.

She surprised you?

Two Students had me pinned to the mats. I was talking, telling the group how to free themselves of the hold. She broke rank and smashed my throat. If Leland hadn't been witnessing the demonstration, I would have died. I spent most of June in ICU.

Does it give you any trouble?

Not really. They weren't sure I'd ever talk again. That Beam works miracles. It left me with this husky voice though. I don't mind. It scares the students. Helps to keep them in their place. I dare any of them to break rank again on me!

It scared me, Jason Aurelius replied, subdued.

You sure didn't act like you were afraid of me. At least while we were outside. Turned into a real coward when Randolph appeared. What does he have against you?

I honestly don't know.

So you went out of your way to choose his service. I know. You like children. It's your career. Your choice.

We need pediatricians, Jason Aurelius replied, heading for the hall door.

If I had your brains, I would have picked trauma. Harrold has a better disposition. Even that strange character Vargas has a more pleasant personality. Aaron shivered. Now that is a scary … Sorry. Like the walking dead. Saw him one night. I thought sure I had passed-on. Blue complexion and icy fingers. Makes me shiver just to talk about him. But he liked you.

How do you know he likes me?

I read it in your file. He recommended you for trauma. I've been watching your career, Healer.

Morgan is waiting, Enforcer, Jason Aurelius said, pausing for Enforcer to open the door.

Healer, I will guard you today as if joined by blood and venom, Aaron said, placing his gloved hand on Jason Aurelius' shoulder. Do you trust me?

I trust you with my life blood, Enforcer. I vow to tend you as if joined by blood and venom.

All that I am, Healer-of-Mine, Aaron replied, right fist on his heart.

As they walked down the hall, side-by-side almost touching, Jason Aurelius admonished himself for not taking the time to familiarize himself with Aaron's file. What if Enforcer became ill? He knew nothing about the man. Not even his age.

May I be so bold as to ask how old you are, Enforcer?

Nothing is too bold for my joined. Twenty-seven.

Aaron raised his gloved hand and knocked on the clinic office door. Guardian Master Enforcer stood outside on guard duty. Jason Aurelius entered first, but dropped to one knee immediately, bowing his covered head.

Both of you, please, rise. Remove your hood, Jason Aurelius. How do you feel? You look dreadful, Frederick remarked, stroking his cheek with her blue fingers. I see distress within.

I tended his needs, Sovereign, Aaron stated, positioned only a breath behind and to the right of his Healer.

Frederick glanced up at the imposing Enforcer, then returned her attention to her young elder. You have the right to refuse home call today. Do you request medical dispensation?

We're shorthanded because of illness. I'll go, Frederick.

Her eyes searched his face for the truth. I'm not sure I should approve this assignment. You haven't joined with Enforcer. How do I know he will defend you, Jason Aurelius?

I trust him, Frederick.

In your weakened condition?

I trust him with my life blood.

Before the two of you are sent forth again, I demand that you be joined. Do I have your word, Jason Aurelius?

I will honor the dedication and join, Frederick.

While she had been almost pleasant with her Healer, she seemed to attack Enforcer, as she turned her attention to Aaron.

If you allow one drop of Healer blood to be shed, and do not attempt to defend him, I will have your head! Do I make myself clear, Enforcer? Frederick pointed at Aaron with her glowing yellow forefinger.

I will defend him as if joined by blood and venom, Sovereign. He is my Healer, Aaron replied, without hesitation.

Kneel before me for the blessing, Frederick ordered, waiting to place her hand on their heads.

Aaron removed his helmet, as together they dropped to their knees and bowed. Jason Aurelius removed the finger loops from his right hand and extended his arm. Aaron hesitated briefly, then removed his brown leather glove, tucking it in his blue sash. Healer and Enforcer entwined their bare fingers waiting for Frederick to continue.

You have not been joined! Frederick huffed. He does not have the right to touch your flesh, Jason Aurelius. What of etiquette?

What of it, Frederick? I could die with him this day. Please, bless our union, sending us forth with your venom.

What would Raymond say?

Please, honor my request, Healer, Jason Aurelius pleaded.

Frederick sighed and glanced at her fourth joined who stood by the door. Very well, but only because it's you, Jason Aurelius. We send you forth to heal, and pray you will remember your oath of service. Go in peace and safety, members. May none draw your precious blood.

Frederick's hand turned a fiery red as she circled their wrists with venom, uniting Healer-Enforcer in her bond of protection. A blending of their souls occurred, causing them to experience every genetic nuance of the other. Just as quickly, her fingers turned crystal blue, releasing them to independence.

I dare anyone to ask this again of me, Frederick muttered. "Only for you, Jason Aurelius. Only for you. Speak