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Sentinels and Guides.

Some called them evolution at work, an extraordinary answer to humankind's advancement. Others called them a throwback to the days of old, when the strongest protected the tribe but were unneeded in the modern world.

A relic of a forgotten time.

They were stronger, faster, their senses attuned to the world around them. Sentinels were predators, stronger and faster than a mundane human. Guides were shamans of old, leading the tribe and understanding the woes of those around them. Separate, they would eventually falter their gifts eventually overcoming them.

Together, Sentinel and Guide pairs were a force to be reckoned with.

50% of the world’s population had the blessed gene, the possibility of becoming a protector. Some came online while others passed the gene to their offspring. Some thought it was a blessing, others thought of it as a curse.

Sentinels protected the tribe; Guides protected their sentinels.

Alpha Sentinels protected the Sentinels below them. Alpha Primes protected all. The same went for guides. It was a simple hierarchy.

They walked the modern world as protectors, shields that stood in front of danger.

Twack!

The sound of metal hitting bare flesh echoed through the empty warehouse. Grunts filled with pain followed with laboring breaths, the barest sound of liquid dripping sluggishly on the floor.

The smell of sickly-sweet copper permeating the room.

Three men inhabited the empty space. One stood in a pristine suit watching the events in front of him with a disinterested air his graying hair giving the since of sophistication. Another stood, obviously the muscle, a pipe swinging from his hands.

The third lay on the dirty ground where he’d fallen.

“How long you planning on keeping this up, kid?” A voice asked, amusement lacing its tone.

Chains jingled as they hoisted a battered body to its feet, arms shaking with exertion. Blood dripped from open wounds that decorated a torso covered with abuse. Gray jogging pants sat low on hips splattered with gore. His whole body shook with pain and shock, but he refused to stay down. It would be so easy, to pass out, to allow the oblivion that fogged his vision through swollen eyes to take him, but he wouldn’t allow it.

Anything, to keep the one thing important left to him safe.

“As long as it takes.” A baritone voice said, laced with pain but full of conviction.

Twack!

“See. We don’t have to do this. Tell us where the kid is, and we’ll let you go. No harm. No foul. Easy right?”

Cold eyes watched a battered man once again pull himself to his feet. He and his associates had been at this for hours. But nothing cracked the battered man. Threats to himself, his family, his friends, nothing would break the dead stare those blue eyes leveled at them all. It was an easy request really.

‘Tell us where you hid Diaz’s kid.’

At first it had been denials of knowing him, then sassy quips at their mothers, then farfetched stories, then silence.

The silence was the most unsettling.

Slaps to fists, fists to kicks, kicks to an outright beating.

Nothing changed the dead eyed stare or the silence that overtook the man now chained to the ceiling. The chains would echo his resolve as the blonde hoisted himself to his feet again and again ready to face whatever pain would be inflicted next.

“You know,” A frustrated voice said, “We don’t need you. How far can the kid run anyway? All you’re doing is delaying what’s gonna happen. I’m gonna find the kid and I’m gonna get my due. Just tell me where he is… and you can go home.”

The man blinked as spit landed on his face.

A smirk graced a swollen face.

“You’re a fucking liar.” A voice broken from pain but full of resolve echoed through the room, “And I’ll be damned if I tell you shit.”

“You muther….” A pipe was snatched, and the blondes head snapped hard from the blow. Brown eyes watched with satisfaction as the chained one, dazed, struggled to pick himself off the floor.

“Fuck this.” The greying gentlemen said before turning to his associate, “Find the boy. Get your men and find that fucking kid. And when you do put a bullet in his head.”

“And this one, sir?” Nameless said with a nudge with a foot to a battered body.

“Kill it.” With that the graying man turned and walked to the exit.

“Sir.”

Unforgiving hands wrapped around a tender throat and hoisted the man to his feet. The body hung from the hold like rag doll. Hazy eyes stared into gleeful ones.

“You hear that? Ima find that kid. But maybe I’ll get to have some… fun… with him first.” A sick smirk graced the captors face, “As for you… well… you’ll see him again soon enough.”

And something inside the blonde… snapped.

In a matter of seconds renewed strength flowed to every cell in his body. His senses changed, from perceiving nothing to perceiving everything. He could feel his body beginning to heal at an accelerated rate, his hearing stretching throughout the entire warehouse complex only to pinpoint a fluttering heartbeat, his sense of smell attaching to the scent of lavender bubble bath and laughter.

A scream echoed as the arm holding the blonde snapped and hands effortlessly wrapped around a head and jerked. The thud of the body hitting the floor echoed through the empty room. With an inhumane strength, the chains were ripped from the ceiling falling around the captive like unforgiving rain.

Brown eyes watched from the door, fear coursing through as his captive ripped his hands free of the chains and began walking towards him. Eyes that were blue and filled with pain before were red as the blood that seeped from him.

The air seemingly shimmered at the blonde’s feet and a massive tiger phased into existence. There were no words spoken before it started running full tilt towards him a roar shaking the foundations of the building.

“KILL IT. FUCKING KILL IT.” He screamed turning on a heel and racing to the exit.

It was for naught.

The last thing the man saw was a jaw filled with massive teeth and a spray of blood from hellishly sharp claws.

Screams and the sounds of gunfire permeated the warehouse. The sickening thuds of bodies being slammed into floors and walls was fractured only by the screams of pain and suffering at the hands of the man…no…monster they themselves dragged into their midst.

There were no thoughts in the blonde’s head, the usual racing brilliance absent but focused on one thought that allowed him to ignore everything around him:

Keep him safe.

From one hallway to another the blonde walked with a single-minded purpose. Enhanced hearing detected the very moment guns were empty of bullets and inhumane speed and strength raced through a body that had been battered so harshly. One by one each assailant fell to the sheer power in his battered form. Hands that saved lives were once again weapons that ended them. Radios echoed the same sentiment only to fall silent as they were each and every one hunted down:

‘It’s a fucking feral sentinel. Repeat. Ferel sentinel. PUT HIM DOWN.’

Broken bodies lay in his wake, some dead while others lay in immense agony from bones being snapped, internal bleedings, or unable to feel anything at all. Many prayed for death unable to look away from the grotesque scene that played out before them.

The last hallway was coated in blood, the bodies of well-trained thugs nothing for a tiger on the rampage. The agitated animal paced back and forth in front of a well-placed table propped against the wall only to reveal a closet door. The blonde paused, stretching his hearing as far as he dared, and listened.

No other heart beats echoed through the space save his and one other.

Bloody hands opened the door and red eyes gazed on a small form, a child, huddled under a shelf with tears coating his small face. The tiger brushed pass his sentinel and immediately began purring and cuddling as close as possible in an attempt to offer some comfort. The blonde knelt in the blood that coated the floor and stared at the heartbeat that had drawn him like a moth to a flame.

“Bucky!” He cried before launching his small body at the man that had protected him so fiercely.

Arms, shaking from pain and exertion, wrapped around the small body now crying into his chest, the shirt he’d be wearing all but torn from his shoulders. The child could only cry while babbling, terrified from the screaming and sounds of anguish he’d been subjected to. A massive hand covered the young boy’s eyes and with nary a grunt, the blonde stood, and slowly walked through the hallway a new thought flowing through his brain:

Get him to safety.

A strong nose navigated the duo, plus one tiger, through the complex and before long they emerged into the night air. The child cuddled deeper into the overly warm arms that protected him. The sound of waves and the smell of sea salt almost caused the man to falter, the want to fugue on the smell and sound strong but the will to protect the priceless treasure he carried stronger. A deliberate deep breath dragged into slightly rattling lungs. For a long moment he focused before his hearing picked up on a particular sound.

The beeping of a far-off heart monitor, the muffled talk of medicines and doctors. The smell of antiseptic and the dying and dead. A hospital.

The trio set off once again, bare feet slapping against dirty pavement. Bloody footprints followed. No words were spoken save the sound of a tiger purring reassuringly at his new charge and the soft giggles of a child at its antics.

All the while arms of steel held on with a single-minded focus. No word passed his lips as he walked, his gait even despite his injuries. Though feral, he had his mission.

Get Chris to safety.

15 Hours Prior

Eddie Diaz, firefighter for the 118, all but slammed his locker shut while staring at this phone in agitation. The message displayed only made his frayed nerves worse.

‘I want my money, Diaz. You’re gonna pay. One way or Another.’

Eddie gritted his teeth and fought the urge to punch his locker, before almost violently forwarding the message to Athena Grant-Nash, sergeant with the LAFD and wife of his captain, as he’d been instructed.

From a week after almost killing a man while illegally street fighting the messages had started, from inquiring about how he was going to pay the house, to vaguely threating to outright threating. At first he’d thought he could handle it but as days turned into weeks Eddie had finally realized he couldn’t. He was terrified for his son; his family and as more and more messages came in the more he realized he was very much in over his head.

He’d gone to Bobby Nash, his captain and dad figure for all of the 118 and asked for help. Bobby, after tearing a strip off his hide for hiding it for so long, immediately had Athena begin an investigation. While HR and the Union were none too thrilled at his actions, his commitment to therapy for his anger management issues went a long way to soothe the ruffled feathers and the LAFD as a whole threw their weight behind the LAPD to find the culprits as soon as possible.

While that issue was looking up, other portions of his life were going up in flames. His parents, Ramon and Helena Diaz, were once again pressuring him to return to El Paso or at least send his pride and joy Chris to live with them. There had already been threats made to involve lawyers and Child Protective Services, but they had been seemingly crowed with the threat of the rest of the family disowning them, the information being spread by both his sisters Andrea and Sophia and his Abuela Isabel. For now, they seemingly were laying low before they could begin their crusade again.

Then there was his ex-girlfriend, Ana Flores, that somehow got the thought they were going to be getting back together and had begun stalking him. She showed up to his home, his place of work, his family’s houses, all in some hairbrained attempt to show him she was ‘right for him’. Eddie had called himself explaining to her that he wasn’t ready for a relationship but all that did was give her the idea that when he would be, it would be back with her. It didn’t help that he would have to see her every time he picked Chris up from school, her being the vice principle.

And then there was Buck and Eddie was kicking himself in the ass every day for his actions.

With the lawsuit still peering over their heads coupled with the drama of the savior baby debacle and then Chimney and Maddie starting a crusade against Buck for policing his boundaries and refusing to speak to his older sister, everyone had taken to ignoring the younger man or berating him at every turn. Even Eddie had taken to all but ignoring his best friend no matter how many times he’d reached out until he just stopped. It took Chris pointing out that Buck hadn’t been over in a long time, and he missed him for his father to think long and hard over the last time they’d even spoken. It had been months.

Buck had become a ghost at work. The usual boisterous energy that followed his steps had been replaced by a silent and aloof coworker that refused any forays into his private life. While Buck was his usual self with others in the station, those he worked with the most were held at arm’s length save for Bobby. The one time it had been brought up, at an uninterrupted dinner for once, the stare they all received made them squirm in their chairs.

‘Kick a dog enough and eventually, the dog won’t let you do it again.’

Eddie had started reaching out feeling like a heel but used Chris to bridge the gap. Buck could never say no to his tiny best friend and their reunion felt like a slap in the face. There had been tears on both sides followed by promises to never leave again and Chris even saying he’d move in with Buck if he had to. It was only for Chris’s sake that Buck was less frosty with Eddie than with the rest of his coworkers. Once again Buck was back with the Diaz boys but there was a disconnect with the older of the two that haunted him.

There were no hang outs, no offers for beer after their shifts, no random texts, nothing. Other than confirming plans for Chris’s times with the younger man, and occasional check in’s there was no communication.

Eddie bounded up the stairs and into a conversation he wanted no part of. Internally, he thanked god Buck was off that day.

“Look. All I’m saying is maybe we went about this the wrong way.” Henretta Willson, Hen to her friends, said to her partner.

“Maddie is beside herself. It’s not good for the baby. Buck’s gonna have to get over himself.” Chimney, Howard Han, stated with a scowl.

“Oh yeah, after you blurted all his personal business across his job and essentially made people choose sides, yeah he’s gonna smile at both of you like you didn’t, like all of you didn’t, stab him in the back. Sure.” Lucy Donato stated with a fierce glare.

“You don’t know Buck. He’s just taking it too far.” Chimney said folding his arms, “Yeah it sucks, but it was a long time ago. He’s gotta get over it.”

“Like you got over what your dad did?” She replied, a caustic grin on her face.

“What the fuck..” Chimney all but slammed his hands on the table, offended beyond belief.

“Oh. So Buck is supposed to swallow the bullshit you’re passing off as care, but we can’t do it to you? You talk about it enough.” Lucy said with a grin, “I call bullshit.”

“That’s enough. Chimney, take a walk.” Bobby’s voice echoed through the kitchen, “You too, Lucy.”

“Why should I? She’s the one who…”

“Who called you on that weird double standard you got with Buck? Yeah. It’s weird. It’s really weird that all of you are so hellbent on making a grown man mind like a kid.” Lucy said before skipping off with an amused grin.

Silence followed her steps.

Eddie grabbed a cup of coffee and while leaning on the counter studied his coworkers.

Chimney was gaping like a fish, but Hen was no better. Bobby stood at a distance an angry expression on his face.

“She’s not wrong.” Eddie’s voice cut though the silence like a knife.

“What do you mean?” Hen asked cautiously.

“There’s this double standard with Buck. She’s not wrong.” Eddie stated simply, taking a sip of his coffee.

“Maddie…”

“Why does Maddie matter in the station? Why does Maddie’s feelings mean more than Buck’s? Why is we every time we’re confronted with the Buckley family’s drama, we automatically take her side without asking Buck for his?”

Silence met his questions.

“I have a lot going on. I admit I haven’t been a good friend. I left him when he needed me. That’s my fault and I’m working on repairing that with him. But we’ve known Buck for how long? But Maddie strolls in the station and suddenly we’re taking her word over a man we’ve worked with for how long, again?”

More silence.

“What makes it worse, is you,” Eddie stated, pointing a finger at Bobby, “Haven’t stepped in.”

“He asked me not to.” Bobby stated after a long pause.

“What?” Hen asked, confusion lacing her tone.

“Buck came to me when all of this started. And after explaining everything that happened, he asked if I would look the other way. He knew tensions would be high and lines would be drawn but didn’t want that to affect his working space.” Bobby stated, an angry glint in his eyes, “There is quite a few of you that have dodged write ups, suspensions, and outright firings because Buck interceded on your behalf. I’ve been really nice considering the behavior I’ve seen in this house… and IT STOPS NOW.”

Bobby never yelled. It was startling to hear it.

“But… Maddie…” Chimney began but Bobby’s angry voice cut him off.

“Maddie Buckley doesn’t work at this station. She has no say in the lives of the people at this station. Maybe if she was upfront with their family history, none of this would have happened.” Bobby statement shocked Chimney into silence.

“But. Bobby you know she’s pregnant. Maddie doesn’t need to…” Hen cautiously began but was cut off.

“What Maddie wants is irrelevant to me. Remember I KNOW what she feels when she’s here.”

Bobby, along with being a fantastic captain and friend, was a guide. His empathic abilities were pretty impressive and while he didn’t advertise his status, it was well known throughout the house.

“You… ALL of you.” Bobby stated, his eyes marking each and every one of them, “Have used and abused your friendships with Buck. So have I. But unlike some, I have worked to repair what I broke. All of you need to take a hard look at your actions. I can guarantee you’ll find them wanting.”

With that, Bobby walked to his office and softly closed the door. He might as well have slammed it.

“Now go stand in a corner and think about what you’ve done.” Jax Montgomery’s voice echoed from the bay, laughter in its tone. His sentinel status made it pretty apparent he’d been listening the entire time.

The alarm sounding was like a blessing, allowing them to process later. For the next few hours call after call came in. By the time the truck was rolled back in the bay, it was close to 3 in the afternoon.

“Shower. I need a shower!” Hen cried as she bolted for the locker room.

“I think I have vomit stuck in my hair.” Eddie said before muttering unflattering things in Spanish.

The mass exodus began to the locker room but a voice echoing through the station halted Eddie in his tracks.

“EDDIE!” Carla Price’s voice echoed through the bay its tone urgent.

Eddie turned and seeing his son’s home health aid and 2 police officers standing behind her, his heart leapt into this throat.

“Carla? What’s going on?” His voice wavered, “Where’s Chris? You were supposed to pick him up from school.”

“Eddie. Eddie. Chris was taken from school.”

Eddie almost hit the floor, but Bobby who saw something was amiss and followed, held him upright.

“What?” He whispered, his hands shaking slightly.

“Someone took him from school. When I got there, I was informed he’d already been picked up by an uncle. The secretary was confused but when she looked in the system, Vice Principle Flores had allowed someone to pick him up that wasn’t on the approved pick-up list. The police are still at the school questioning her and the staff. He’s gone, Eddie. I’m so sorry.” Carla began to cry, the events of the day catching up.

Eddie shut down. His son was gone. Someone out there had taken him. And he had no idea who.

Eddie watched in a fog as things moved quickly around him. The LAFD had contacted the El Paso Police department and brought his parents in for questioning. The elder Diaz were both insulted at the insinuation they would resort to kidnapping but when confronted with the evidence that they’d threatened to do it before were quickly shut up but also removed as possible suspects. Their demands to be included in the investigation was ignored and the couple was given a warning not to interfere.

Athena was a godsend who quickly diverted the LAPD’s attention to the threating texts, calls and emails Eddie had been receiving. It didn’t take a smart person to determine whoever was behind the messages were also behind Chris’s disappearance. The Sentinel division of the LAPD along with volunteers from the LAFD were dispatched in hopes to find the child as quickly as possible.

Eddie could only cry, being held together by Bobby’s reassuring presence.

*

Evan Buckley, Buck to his friends, sat on his couch mindlessly watching a documentary on lemurs when his doorbell rang. Frowning slightly, he stood and opened the door, clearly not expecting company.

Seeing it was one of his neighbors from down the hall, Denice, and her daughter Amanda selling Girl scout cookies, he quickly grabbed his wallet and paid for his usual 3 boxes and the usual donation.

As Buck rounded the corner of his island his doorbell rang again. Upon opening it, the hall seemed empty.

“Hello?” Buck called as he looked around. Stepping out into the hall he frowned at the empty space before shrugging and turned to head back inside.

He never saw the hit coming.

A sharp pain bloomed across his head. Immediately, he swung backwards, knocking over the table next to the door. It disoriented his attacker for a split second, but it was already too late. The last thing he saw was a pair of hands grabbing him and the sting of a needle injecting something in his neck.

Buck then knew no more.

Now

A man holding a child walked into Cedars Sinai’s Emergency room causing all activity to come to a screeching halt. While that was not unusual, the state of the duo and their extra companion gave cause for extreme alarm.

A feral sentinel, the blood red irises a plain give away, covered in blood and gore, injured holding a seemingly untouched but unconscious child and accompanied by a fully corporeal sprit animal in the form of a tiger. Surrounding them was a group of about 8 other sentinels obviously protecting the trio as they walked. 5 guides rounded up the group using their gifts to keep people as calm as possible.

“Nobody move.” One of them said calmly.

It was a known thing. Never spook a feral sentinel. Any sign of aggression would be met with extreme violence. Feral sentinels were like ticking time bombs, ready to go off at any given sign.

“The alpha needs help. He’s injured but the kid said he’s fine before he passed out.” Another, a girl no older than 17 said bouncing on her toes. Her guide, an older man maybe 20, nodded along with her words.

Alpha sentinels were another matter altogether. They outclassed their brothers and sisters in everything, from speed to strength, to senses. Sentinels protected the tribe. Alpha Sentinels protected sentinels.

The situation just went from bad to downright alarming.

“Ok.” Dr. Grant Solano, head of the ER, breathed slowly and looked at the head nurse, “Get the S&G Center down here pronto. And the cops. We need to identify both of them immediately.”

The entire room froze as the now identified alpha head turned and he began scanning the room, his eyes glancing over each one of them before landing a nurse standing a few feet away seemingly recognizing her. The alpha stepped forward, walking directly to the one nurse and a long moment passed as red eyes regarded glass ones.

Phoebe Miller had seen it all in her years working the ER, feral alphas included. One standing less than a foot from her seemingly looking into her soul was something she’d never come face to face with. Something about him tipped her off. She knew him, somehow.

Surprisingly gentle arms slowly reached out holding the child for her to take. The room could see the shaking in the limbs, the exertion of whatever he’d been through catching up to him.

“You want me to take him?” She asked, confirming out his wishes.

He nodded before motioning to the child.

Never to look a gift horse in the mouth she gently took the child in her arms and held him tight. The alpha began backing up before his gaze moved to the tiger next to him. No words were spoken before the tiger trotted forward and sat directly next to Phoebe’s leg; its golden gaze pinned on the kid in her arms.

Alarmed arms reached for the alpha as he lost consciousness.

Dr. Solano began barking orders as nurses began swarming getting the alpha on a gurney and rushing him to the nearest available room. Phoebe ran to the nearest triage room, her strange new companion in tow.

12 hours/ Buck

When Buck came too abruptly, he had no idea how much time had passed. The SEAL in him immediately stook stock. He was restrained, in an unknown location, from the sound of moving near him he wasn’t alone and laying on the cold concrete. From the smells around him, he could smell salt meaning he was close to the ocean.

“Welcome back, Mr. Diaz.”

Buck’s mind ticked another bullet on his mental list. Apparently these people thought he was Eddie.

With a groan he pushed himself to sitting and blearily looked around him. 3 men stood gathered a short distance away seemingly content to study his prone form. The 4^th, the one who spoke, crouched next to him a placating smile on his face.

“Glad of you to join us.” He stated with a menacing grin.

‘What the fuck has Eddie gotten himself into?’ Was the most prevalent thought in his mind.

“Mr. Vogachev isn’t happy with you, Mr. Diaz. You’ve been ignoring his very reasonable demands for repayment and has decided on a more… proactive approach.”

Buck simply groaned softly rubbing his tied-up hands against his eyes in an attempt to clear the obvious side effects of whatever drugs they pumped him full of. Internally he did mental stock.

Somehow, Eddie owed money to some very unfortunate people. By the sound of the name mentioned, the Russian Mafia seemed the most plausible, but it could be any organization.

It was bad all the way around.

However, Buck wouldn’t allow a botched kidnapping to threaten anyone he called family. Maybe it was best they grabbed him instead of Eddie. While Eddie was more prone to violence when provoked, Buck was a SEAL. He had no qualms about… removing… a problem if pushed to it. A little rusty he may be, especially in a situation like this, but strategies began flowing through his mind.

“Now. Knowing how talented you are in a fight, Mr. Vogachev thought the best way to keep you…more responsive to listening…a little bit of incentive was needed.” That was said with a sharp smile, but the warning in the words were loud and clear to everyone listening.

The scuffle of feet on a dirt covered ground alerted Buck to another person entering the space and a pile of spindly limbs was unceremoniously dumped in his lap. Buck’s eyes widened in sheer terror as Chris’s tear-streaked face stared back at him. His arms, still laden from the drugs, wrapped as securely as possible around Chris’s shaking form.

“I trust you’ll behave. You’re gonna be here a while.”

Buck glared as Chris burrowed as close as he could in his arms.

*

9 hours / Eddie

Eddie sat slumped on the couch at the station, unwilling to go home without his son. Detached eyes watched the bustle of activity around him.

Hen and Chimney stood on phones calling any and every one they could think of to help search. Athena stood with Detective Lou Ransone directing the investigation as well as the available sentinels that were helping in the search. Fortunately, with all the evidence that had already been gathered it was only slightly easier to narrow down possible suspects, but it was time-consuming. That did not mention that whoever was behind this did well to cover their tracks. 

Bobby sat next to Eddie, lending him his strength in such a bad time. Every now and then he would check his phone frowning before shoving it back in his pocket. The entire station had been taken off rotation since everyone available had stopped what they were doing to help.

“You ok, honey?” Athena asked, a gentle hand brushing over slumped shoulders.

Eddie could only shake his head unable to speak.

“We’re going to find him. I promise. We’re going to find him.” The conviction in Athena’s words sent shards of hope in a heart that was filled with despair.

“Damn it.” Bobby hissed quietly before shoving his phone on the coffee table in front of him.

“Something wrong?” Athena asked, a concerned frown on her face.

“It’s just…Athena I can’t get ahold of Buck.” Bobby said the statement stark.

“What?”

“He’s not answering his phone. I’ve called and sent texts. I know he’ll want to be here, but I can’t get ahold of him.” Bobby clarified.

“Let me get a patrol car over there.” Athena said before stepping to the side and calling it is.

“That’s telling. Maybe he’s behind this? I mean… he’s always shoving himself down Eddie’s throat. Maybe he got tired of playing second fiddle to the kids dad.” Chimney said with a mean chuckle.

Nothing could stop what happened next.

Eddie launched over the table punching Chimney dead in the face. The room irrupted into chaos everyone making frantic attempts to pull the two apart. Bobby grabbed Eddie by the back of the shirt and all but threw the younger man on the couch. Hen quickly knelt at Chimney’s side holding gauze to an already bleeding nose.

“The next thing out your mouth better be an apology, Han. If not… See you self out and don’t come back.” Bobby said, his tone final.

“But… Eddie…” Chimney stuttered.

“Eddie’s son was taken, and you think this is the time to make jokes?” Hen asked frustrated, “I suggest you sit down and shut the fuck up. We do not have the patience for your caustic jokes. Not now.”

Chim could only hold a tissue to his face his expression mutinous. Silence reigned and for the next few moments other than the hustle and bustle of various police officers and detectives, the room was silent. Eddie could only massage his knuckles his eyes pinning Chimney to his seat.

“SHIT.” Athena’s exclamation cut through the silence.

“What? Athena, what’s wrong?” Bobby jerked to his feet already reaching for his wife.

“Buck’s been taken. There’s signs of struggle at his loft. They’re already pulling security camera footage but his phone, his jeep, and his keys are still there.”

Athena turned and stared daggers into Chinmey’s eyes.

“Are you happy now, Howard? Buck could be dead somewhere… but it’s a joke to you… right?” With a huff she turned and immediately shared the information with Lou.

Chimney went pale. He turned to Hen but only saw disgust and censure in her eyes.

It was only supposed to be a joke.

*

5 Hours/ Buck

Buck raced through the warehouse his long legs eating up distance as he raced through hallways deliberately leading armed thugs after him.

The moment the guards were preoccupied Buck took his chance and dispatched the two as quickly and quietly as possible while also dodging cameras as he went. With quick motions he scooped Chris in his arms and quietly made his way through the warehouse. He found himself in a deserted one-way hallway and after a quick glance confirmed no cameras, he immediately headed for a closet towards the end.

“Bucky? What are you doing?” Chris asked as he was bundled under a shelf out of sight of the door.

“Baby. Listen to me.” Buck said breathing hard, “You stay here. No matter what you hear, don’t open that door. Don’t answer anyone if they call. You stay as silent as possible. I’m going to lead these guys away.”

“Buck. No. You gotta stay.” Chris grasped at his shirt feebly trying to hold on.

“Baby... I can’t.” Buck said with a sad smile and a shake of his head, “I’ll lead them away and when the coast is clear, I’ll come get you.”

Chris could only cry. Terror was coursing through his veins. The thought of losing the one person keeping him calm was horrifying.

“Look.” Quick fingers removed his watch and pressed into Chris’s hands, “If I don’t come back quick enough, you wait 12 hours. You understand. 12 Hours. By then these people will be gone. You sneak out as quietly as possible and get help. Understand?”

“Bucky. I’m scared.” Chris said snot and tears running down his face.

“Me to, baby. Me too.” Buck tucked his sweater around the shaking form and hugged him tightly, “I’ll see you soon, ok? I’ll see you soon.”

Chris could only nod and watched as Buck locked and closed the door incasing him in darkness.

Buck picked a table sitting propped on the far wall in front of the door to mask it and for a split second let his emotions crash through him.

This was possibly the last time he’d see Chris. He knew what the play was. They would scour the place looking for him. Buck had done his best going as far across the warehouse complex as he dared but knew attempting to leave was a death sentence for them both. He allowed the phantom warmth from that last hug to soak into his very soul.

Him dying was irrelevant. Chris would live.

Buck took a slow breath before running full tilt down the hall and into the fray.

He would die. But he’d take some of those bastards with him.

*

Rough hand threw Buck, now tied as firmly as they could get him, on the floor of an open room within the factory. Metal beams held a tin roof and patchy walls. Buck sat up, still breathing hard and wiped his bleeding lip with tied hands.

“Mr. Diaz. I have to say you surprise me. You ditch your kid and proceed to take down 7 of my men while they chase you across a complex. It took 6 to take you down and they barely managed that.” An older gentlemen, head full of gray hair, stated while shaking his head, “I must say it’s hard to impress me, but I admit… I’m impressed.”

The gentlemen turned and stared into blue eyes glaring into his soul.

“Who the fuck is this?”

Confusion graced the faces of his guards.

“Um. Its Eddie Diaz, Sir.”

The gentlemen laughed before a backhand had the guard staggering backwards.

“Eddie Diaz. DIAZ. It’s a Hispanic last name. Does he look Hispanic to you?” The anger on his face could have set fire to the surrounding men.

“But sir. It’s the guy from the picture. See.” A guard pulled out his phone and showed his boss a photo. seemed like it was taken from a distance but clearly showed them both eating ice cream at a regular spot of theirs.

The older gentlemen began swearing in what Buck guessed was Russian confirming his earlier suspicions.

“Well. It appears we are at an impasse, friend. Might I know who you are?”

Buck didn’t believe the visage of friendliness but was all too willing to play along.

“Evan Buckley. And I assume you are Vogachev.” He said with an insolent tone.

“You assume correctly. Pleasure, Mr. Buckley. I apologize for my associates. There seems to have been a mix up,” Vogachev said with a smile, “They were supposed to… acquire… Mr. Diaz.”

“Well. It’s not my fault they can’t tell nationalities. Maybe you should look into more…smart.. associates.” Buck said with a grin.

“Funny.” Vogachev said shaking his head, “Funny guy. Listen. We’ll be more than happy to return you to your place of residence; we simply need the child, and you can be on your way.”

Buck sat with a faux thoughtful look on his face.

“What child?”

He took note at the crack of civility in his captors face.

“Now is not the time for jokes, Mr. Buckley.” A hard edge attached itself to a friendly tone, “You want to leave, yes. I want the kid. Where is he?”

Buck chuckled.

“At your mothers.”

He expected the slap. It still hurt.

“I don’t think you understand the position you’ve, however accidentally, found yourself. I’m willing to let you go. I need the kid. Tell me his whereabouts and you can go.”

“No.” Buck stated, his tone firm.

Vogachev paced a few steps away clenching his fists.

“Rough him up a little.”

A couple of fists to the gut later Buck sat sporting new bruises and slightly short of breath but still holding firm.

“Now. Where is he?”

“Nope.”

Vogachev grabbed a fistful of Buck’s hair and yanked his face close.

“I don’t think you understand. Diaz cost me a lot of money. Him blowing my fighting operation cost me millions. He will pay me back. I want the kid. You better start talking, or I’ll make you.” He snarled spit flying into Buck’s face.

Buck chuckled.

“I would love to see you try.”

With a snarl, Vogachev threw the younger man away from him.

“String him up.”

Buck readied himself for pain.

He’d take whatever would be thrown at him.

For Chris.

*

1 hour/ Cedars Sinai

The S&G Center descended on Cedars Sinai, their representatives immediately asking sitrep. Foremost in their minds were the safety of both the sentinel and people around him.

For the safety of everyone in the ER, the child and his animal minder had been sequestered in a private room. The sentinel had been rushed to the opposite side of the hospital where the sentinel safe staff would care for the wounds that were already healing. The tiger, for its part, stayed at the young boy’s side and never moved. Even when his sentinel was removed, it stayed.

That was the first shock. Seeing a fully corporeal sprit animal looking at them through a window and obviously not amused with their perusal but made no move to leave the bed it had curled itself on made a large impression.

Whoever this sentinel was, he was powerful.

“Do we know who he is?” Lacie Collins, Sentinel and in charge of the investigation asked as she scanned over the medical records.

“No clue. The sentinel was feral when he came in and the child has been unconscious since he arrived.” Dr. Solano said before nodding at the pair on the bed, “That tiger hasn’t left his side. It even let us check him out, but it got agitated when another nurse tried to shoo it out.”

“And the sentinel? What’s his status?” She asked briskly.

“Best guess, he was beaten. Caved ribs however his lungs are fine. Theres a crack in his skull but his body is healing him at a rate I’ve never seen before. If his body keeps it up he may be fine in a few days.” Dr. Solano rubbed his eyes.

“We’ve already informed the police. The Center is already looking into how this guy managed to slip through the cracks. Something is very wrong here.” Lacie said a frown marring her face.

It was true.

Sentinels and guides registered with the center the moment showed signs of coming online. Resources would then be made available for them from classes to mentorships. There was even programs for families of sentinels and guides as well as various programs such as housing, job searches, even trade and education advancement. It was required by law to report to the Center for health checks as well as mental and physical therapies should it be needed. The system became a well-oiled machine working for the betterment of their tribe

across the globe.

Yet somehow there was no record of the mysterious sentinel in their systems. No blood cards, no id, nothing. It happened but not very often.

Thoughts were interrupted as alarms began blaring from the room. Dr. Solano turned and watched a child sat up with spindly limbs staring with terrified eyes at his new surroundings. The tiger, triggered by the kids response, hopped down from the bed, and began prowling through the room a threating growl echoing through the door. Tears began pouring down his face as he began franticly searching for something… or someone.

A nurse, hearing the commotion, immediately ran over and opened the door.

“NO!”

A ferocious roar drowned out the yell and chaos ensued.

Across the hospital an unconscious sentinel woke up.

The nurse attending him only caught the blue of his eyes before red seeped into them. Long legs swung over the hospital bed and the sentinel stood up, staggering before catching himself on the bed. He was out the door before the nurse could blink.

Alarms sounded throughout the building. Radios began crackling sending the same alert through the entire hospital.

‘Code F. We have a Code F. Lock it down.’

“I guess we’re about to meet this sentinel of yours.” Lacie stated before turning to her guide.

“I’ll do what I can.” Ramone Hivarez stated before taking a deep breath.

“You think he’s coming here?” Dr. Solano asked over the growls that made the hair on the back of his head stand up. For safety, the group, nurses included, had retreated down the hall and could only watch a massive tiger pace back and forth in front of the door.

“I know he is. His sprit animal is obviously protecting that kid. And we just spooked him. Oh, he’s coming.” She said with a slow breath.

The next few minutes were nerve wracking. They all waited in silence as the halls cleared almost by magic and security, mundane and sentinel alike, flooded the halls.

A massive boom startled everyone who heard it. The automatic door that blocked the ER from the rest of the hospital bent in before coming completely off its henges. The battered and bruised body of the unknown sentinel stepped through the opening and continued forward ignoring both the damage and the security officers he passed.

“Oh god.” Lacie whispered her hand going to her throat.

“What?” Dr. Solano asked alarmed.

“Alpha. Back up. Everybody back up.” She said before plastering herself to the wall.

The alpha walked right by them and down the hall, his spirit animal immediately retreating into the room. The only thing that could be heard was the heavy breathing of everyone standing before a teary voice echoed from the room.

“BUCKY!”

The door softly clicked shut.

Lacie and Dr. Solano rushed down the hall. The sight through the glass wasn’t one they were expecting.

The sentinel held the child in his arms rocking gently and the giant cat nuzzled his back. Small hands grasped at his arms uncaring of the wounds and bruises they encountered. Red eyes cut to the window and the aggression in them amplified but he seemingly was uninterested in them…provided they didn’t enter the room.

Lacie took a moment and studied the alpha that had confused everyone in the community. Not a single inch of his chest that wasn’t covered by bandages showed clear skin. Bruises, contusions, and more were displayed prominently. His legs, still covered by blood spattered gray sweatpants, remained a mystery but his feet were bloody seemingly from the walk to the hospital.

His face was the worse.

One eye was swollen almost shut, but the other showed vividly in the lights of the room. Coagulated blood coated the side of his face and under his nose. Cuts and abrasions marred his skin but went ignored.

But the bruises were yellowing. His advanced healing was working overtime to restore him back to peak performance.

“What do you make of this?” Dr. Solano asked astounded.

“I… I have no idea. I’ve never seen a feral sentinel behave like this.” Lacie replied, “Typically, they react violently to any outside stimulation but this… I’ve never seen this. Ram.”

Ramone closed his eyes and reached outward before wincing, hissing in pain at the physic push back. 

“He didn’t like that.”

Lacie turned and almost jumped as red eyes stared down at her, the only thing between them was the glass. One red eye narrowed in warning. She heard it loud and clear.

‘Don’t do that again.’

“What do we do now? He needs medical attention, and we need to identify them both.” The doctor asked frustrated.

“You said… you said he gave the kid to a nurse. Where is she?” Ramone asked flipping through the case notes rapidly.

“Phoebe. She’s at the desk at the ER. I’ll page her. Hang on.”

It only took a few minutes, but Phoebe came jogging around the corner. She was still in shock over the events that had transpired earlier. She also wasn’t surprised to be called.

“He gave you the kid. Right. No resistance. No fight. He handed him to you.” Lacie asked quickly.

“Yeah. Walked up to me and gave him here.” Phoebe nodded eagerly.

“Do you know them?”

“Honestly,” Phoebe said with a huff, “I don’t know. I swear I know that man. But I can’t remember where or when. We see so many people, but I swear I’ve met him before.”

“Ok. I’m about to ask you to do something you may not feel comfortable doing.”

“You want me to walk in there.”

“Yes. He was calm when you walked in. Maybe you can get some info as to who they are.”

“Ok.” Phoebe said with a slight grin, “This has to be the coolest thing I’ve done thus far. I’ll do it.”

With a nod Phoebe walked to the door and knocked.

Everyone paused.

Nothing.

“Excuse me.” She stated, her sunny voice echoing through the hall and with a confident stride she walked right in.

Three sets of eyes stared at her entrance. The red ones remained guarded along with their amber counterparts, but the set of brown ones eagerly took in her form.

“Miss Nurse. You gotta help Bucky. He’s hurt.” The child said quickly excited someone was finally coming to help.

“I can see, honey. Let me check you first, ok?” She said soothingly before walking towards the bed. She briefly paused when a soft growl echoed through the room from the tiger but that ended quickly at a brief glance from the sentinel.

Phoebe easily took down vitals and quickly looked over her new charges. She could see the faint trimmer in the older man’s body and sped herself up to be able to help him. Not once did the sentinel move, keeping a loose hold on the child.

“Now. I need to know something very important.” She said with a bright smile.

“Ok.” The child nodded eagerly but never leaving the arms that surrounded him.

“What’s your name? I can’t keep calling you cutie in my head.”

“Oh. I’m Christopher. Christopher Diaz. And this is my Bucky.” Chris stated with a smile.

“Bucky? Is that a nickname?” Phoebe asked but the name dinged something in her head.

“Well,” Chris said calmly, “His nickname is Buck. He’s a firefighter with…”

“The 118. Oh GOD. Evan?” Phoebe turned astonished and stared into placid red eyes.

A slow blink met her inquiry.

“Ok. Ok. I’m gonna get them on the horn. I think people may be looking for you. Let me grab some stuff and we’ll get your Buck fixed right up.” Phoebe said before all but racing from the room.

“Well?” Lacie asked.

“Evan Buckley. He’s Evan Buckley. He’s a firefighter with the 118. He’s the one that had that truck fall on his leg. I took care of him in the ICU. The kid is Chris Diaz. Call the 118 fire station. I think his dad works there too.” She said before racing down the hall to gather medical supplies.

Lacie turned and stared at her guide and the police that gathered in the hall.

“Get ahold of the LAPD. Tell them we have Evan Buckley and Christopher Diaz here in custody. We need an assist in investigating what happened to them. I want everything on Evan Buckley, yesterday.” She shouted before grabbing her phone.

“Babe. It’s gonna be a long night.”

Ramone nodded in response before stalking away already making calls.

Now

Eddie raced through Cedars Sinai his heart in this throat.

At the news that Buck was missing, Eddie shut down. The only thing that kept him going was the thought that Buck would run into the station ready to do whatever he needed to bring Christopher home.

Maddie had joined them shrilly demanding updates before she was told very sternly to sit and be quiet or leave if she would insist on being disruptive. She sat in shock next to Chimney and was silent until called on for questioning. Maddie didn’t have much information since she and her brother weren’t on speaking terms, but any information was welcome. She did make stink eye at Eddie while dabbing Chimney’s nose but was largely ignored.

As the hours turned, Eddie became more frantic. His parents decided blowing up his phone demanding updates was the best way to cover the time before he simply turned it off. Abuela and Pepa had by then arrived at the station and unceremoniously took over the kitchen in an attempt to distract themselves.

“WE GOT THEM!” Athena shout caused the entire station to stand completely still.

“Dios Mio. Where?” Eddie breathed shooting up from his seat, “What happened? Where are they?”

“They’re at Cedars. Apparently they showed up about an hour or so ago, but it was just now they got ID. We need to go, Right now.” Athena said urgently and began waving him towards the exit to her patrol car.

“Are they ok?” He asked already helping Abuela down the stairs as she whispered thanks in Spanish with tears running down her face.

“Somethings up. The S&G Center sent the call. I don’t know.” Athena said.

Abuela and Pepa bundled into their cars, and it was as if a mass exodus of vehicles hit the road. Chimney, Hen, and Maddie all threw themselves into Hen’s car while Bobby grabbed the battalion truck.

Many traffic laws were broken but with the blaring sirens from the police cruiser and the battalion truck the crew made it to the hospital in record time. Eddie burst through the doors of the ER frantically looking around before noting a small blonde waving at him.

“Mr. Diaz. Lacie Collins with the Sentinel and Guide Center.” Lacie said briskly matching his pace through the hospital.

“Edmundo Diaz. People call me Eddie. Where’s my son? Where’s Buck?” He asked before his arm was grabbed bringing him to a stop.

“First, Chris is completely fine. Tired and upset but fine. Buck is the one I’m concerned about.” She stated.

“Oh god. What happened? Is he ok?” He asked now ready to sprint down the hall.

“Evan is as well as can be expected. Is his guide present?”

“Guide? What are you talking about? Buck isn’t a sentinel.”

“Then that means...this just got even more complicated.” She muttered to herself.

“What is going on?” Eddie asked frustrated. In the back of his mind, he felt a little pulse, like warmth filling his brain with calm. Bobby, Athena and the others joined the pair but stopped short at the next statement.

“Mr. Diaz, Mr. Buckley came online today. And probably saved your son’s life. But he’s completely feral. Other than a nurse Phoebe, he’s completely intolerant of anyone that walks into that room.” Lacie stated facts wanting to get the gravity of the situation through.

“He never told me he was latent.” Eddie whispered slightly hurt.

“The more I’m learning, the more I think he himself may not have known. Be that as it may, he is currently protecting your kid like he’s his own. I need to know if you can handle this.”

“I was an army medic. We saw our share of feral sentinels. What do you need me to do?” Eddie asked firmly ready to do whatever it took.

Once again, a pulse of warmth filled his mind, like a hug from his best friend.

“If you walk in and see any sign of aggression, I need you to exit immediately. I don’t wanna risk your life or the lives of the people in this building.” She replied.

“Ok. Ok take me to them.” Eddie said eagerly wanting to be reunited with the two most important people in his life.

The pair trotted down the hall before stopping at a door with a single viewing window.

Eddie’s heart caught in this throat.

“Oh god.”

The Buck he saw days ago was fine. All golden skin, blue eyes, and sunny smiles. This one looked like he’d been put in a meat grinder… and the grinder won.

There really wasn’t any stopping Eddie’s reaction.

Eddie burst through the door and everyone watching paused. The tiger hopped one again from the bed but instead of growling it bounded over already purring deep in his chest and started bumping Eddie’s hip in an attempt to get him closer.

“DADDY!” Chris joyfully called out, “Bucky, Daddy’s here. He’ll help you.”

“Chris, mijo. Are you ok?” Eddie crossed the room quickly and gathered his son in his arms.

“I’m ok. Buck kept me safe. But he’s hurt. You gotta do something.” Chris babbled tears of frustration forming in his eyes.

“I know, mijo. We’ll get Buck fixed right up.” Eddie said with a reassuring smile before his gaze turned to his best friend.

Unblinking red eyes stared back. Beneath the bruises and blood, the familiar features of his best friend made themselves known. Eddie skirted the bed and reached out cradling Buck’s face in his hands.

“What did they do to you, carino?” He whispered softly, “Come on, mi bebe. Let me fix you up, ok?”

Everyone watched in astonishment as Buck, fully docile, leaned into his partner and closed his eyes seemingly relaxing into the others arms. Gentle hands guided the younger man to sit on the bed next to Chris who immediately cuddled up to him. With nary a sound, the tiger simply disappeared finally relaxing for the first time in hours. The tension that was very prevalent finally bleeding from the younger man’s shoulders as Eddie started shouting for bandages and other medical implements.

Chris could only giggle at his fathers ire.

“Didn’t expect that.” Ramone said with a slight grin, “And I hate to rain on your parade but… yeah you need to see this, Lee.”

Lacie turned and eyed the tablet he was holding.

“I’m not going to like this… am I.” She sighed before steeling herself.

“Nope. Not one bit.”

*

Bobby and Athena guided their makeshift family to a private waiting room that had been prepared for them. Bobby could feel his shields weakening as the day began catching up to him. Athena would brush up against him, both for his sake and hers, strengthening his shields as best she could.

He would never not give thanks for finding her. His sentinel was everything he thought he wouldn’t have again since losing his first one.

Maddie sat all but twitching in her chair. The longer time went, the more agitated she became. Two security guards stood at the entrance allowing the group their privacy but also subtly discouraging them from leaving. From the tidbits of information Athena was still receiving a full-blown investigation was happening in conjunction with the S&G Center.

“This is ridiculous. Why haven’t they told me anything? I’ll need to make decisions for Evan if he can’t do it himself.” She said, irritation in her tone.

“And why would he need you to do that?” Abuela asked already handing out food she’d grabbed on her way out of the station.  

“I’m his power of attorney and next of kin. I should be in there.” She replied almost harshly.  

“Oh. And how can you make decisions for him if you are not speaking?” Abuela tilted her head, eyebrows raised, and stared into the slightly shocked eyes that connected with hers.

“I… But… that’s not my fault.”

“Oh. And whose would it be? Your parents, for keeping his brother from him for so long? Or maybe his brother, for dying.” Pepa piped up, hands giving out tamales and bowls of pozole for everyone to have.

“I don’t think this is fair,” Chimney said with a frown, “Maddie’s tried her best but…”

“And you were there, were you. Unless she has the mind of a toddler, your girlfriend is an adult. She’s had plenty of time to inform Evanito of the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his birth. Why didn’t she?” Abuela asked stabbing the heart of the matter.

And uncomfortable silence reigned through the room. Maddie stuttered but couldn’t find anything to say. Chimney looked angry but also thoughtful like it had never occurred to him.

“I think I know, mama. Evanito is the most forgiving person I know. And I bet su hermana/his sister was counting on that. Why tell him the truth when he’ll forgive you for lying? Why be honest when he’ll overlook it. Except he didn’t.” Pepa’s tone was cutting, showing exactly what she thought of the entire situation.

“Mujer joven/ Young lady, maybe instead of forcing him to accept your side, maybe you should see it from his.” Abuela said before taking a sip of coffee. She then pulled out a book seemingly done with the conversation.

Hen and Athena both glanced at each other both agreeing with the statement.

Bobby sat meditating completely ignoring everything around him.

Chimney sat blinking but thoughtful.

The next hour passed by with no words spoken. It was a sort of peaceful stalemate.

“My apologies for keeping you all waiting.” Lacie briskly walked into the room, her guide at her side, “We’ve got a lot to cover and not a lot of time.”

Bobby shot up from his seat with Athena right on his heels.

“Bobby Nash and this is my sentinel and wife, Athena. Why is the Center here? Is Buck ok?” He asked confused.

“Evan Buckley somehow came online without knowing he was latent. While the details are spotty, it seems he fought his way through a hostage situation with Chris Diaz in tow. Now Chris is fine, tired and a little traumatized, but fine. Its Evan we’re the most worried about.” She replied her eyes and ears scanning the room.

“That’s impossible. Evan doesn’t have the gene.”

“And you are?” Lacie’s eyebrows rose.

“Maddie Buckley, Evan’s sister. He doesn’t have the gene. He was tested as a kid, and it came up negative.” Maddie said firmly.

“That’s funny.” Lacie replied with a shark-like smile her hand already raising the tablet she was holding, “Because I’m holding Evan’s full records from infancy to adulthood, and he was never tested. The mandatory blood work is missing. Along with a chunk of medical history from infancy to around 4.”

Maddie could only blink in astonishment.

“I’ve also found some very concerning pieces of information in this file and I believe your parents will know the answers. I’m assuming they are on the way. When will they be touching down?” She continued holding no quarter.

“Um. They won’t be coming.” Maddie looked to her feet shame in her tone.

“Their son went missing only to turn up some 12 hours later beat to hell and in a feral state and they will not be coming? I know they were informed as soon as we ID’d him.” Lacie’s tone was less than impressed.

The room exploded in sound, questions and statements flying around like darts. Maddie stood under the scrutiny looking more and more guilty as time passed by.

“Fine.” Lacie turned to her guide with an angry expression, “Ram, get ahold of the Center in Hershey. I want Philip and Margaret Buckley brought in custody for questioning immediately. Pending charges of abuse, neglect, medical neglect, failure to comply with state and national guidelines and anything else you can come up with. Right now.”

Ramone simply nodded already moving out the room ready to make the necessary calls.

“Wait. They’re being sanctioned?” Maddie cried out, fear on her face.

“Sanctioned? That’s the least of their worries. I’d imagine the Center will have them moved to our facility as soon as possible for questioning pending formal charges. Every one of those carry hefty jail time and I’d like to remind you there is no such thing as a statute of limitations in cases like this. And unless you wanna end up like them, I suggest you start spilling everything you know. Now.” Lacie’s smile wasn’t a friendly one.

“But… I…. I’m Evans Power of Attorney. I need to be here.” Maddie began grasping for straws, desperate to stay.

“According to this, Edmundo Diaz is listed as power of attorney and next of kin alongside Robert Nash. Athena-Grant Nash and Isabel Diaz are listed as immediate backup. You’ll be fine.” Lacie flicked to the tablet before staring her in the eyes, “Anything else? No? One of my colleagues will be taking you for your interview. And word to the wise, he’s a guide and will know if you’re lying. I wouldn’t if I were you.”

A young man stepped forward and Maddie could only walk with him, defeat echoing from her.

“Now. Evan is feral but right now he’s calm and coming down. But an ER is not the place he needs to stabilize. Is there anyone that can help move him, anyone he trusts to get him to safety?” Lacie asked scanning the room.

“I’m up then. Take me to him.” Bobby immediately stepped forward Athena at his side.

“And you’re sure he’ll be fine with you? We cannot afford to make any mistakes. Just because he’s calm doesn’t mean he won’t lash out. Trust me, you don’t want an alpha sentinel on the rampage in a hospital.” She stated facts.

“He’s an alpha?” Athena asked shocked.

“Yep. With a fully corporeal sprit animal. That’s why we don’t want to spook him.”

“What about Christopher? Can we see him?” Abuela asked softly, hands clasped together.

“With circumstances being as they are, no. Right now, proximity to both Diazs’ are keeping Evan calm, and we want to keep him that way. The plan is to move him to one of the sentinel safe rooms on the other side of the hospital.” Lacie replied gently regret in her tone.

“You mean march him through the building…feral.” Hen stated, astonished before a thoughtful expression crossed her face, “I mean… yeah provided nobody spook him it may work.”

“That’s all we have to work with. If anything, we can set you guys up in one of the family waiting rooms over there. It’ll be more comfortable, and we can give you quicker updates. Nash’s if you will follow me.” Lacie stated before springing into action.

In short order Bobby and Athena were escorted to Buck while the rest were hustled across the hospital.

Bobby would never forget what he saw walking into that room.

Buck, by this point, sat slightly slumped on the side of the bed while Eddie worked on the numerous wounds with a caring hand all the while muttering in furious Spanish. With all the dirt and blood, it was hard to tell it was even him. But Bobby just knew it was.

“Hey, kid.” He whispered with a smile that widened at the blinking welcome.

A tired head lolled to the side in acceptance of their presence. Athena wasted no time bustling forward and immediately checking him over threatening all and sundry over her baby but also aggressively cuddling Christopher who began slightly giggling. Bobby simply sat next to him and allowed a tired head to fall on his shoulder.

“I’m not sure how much longer he can go like this.” Eddie said softly never pausing as he placed yet another bandage on his partner.

“The play is getting him to the sentinel portion of the hospital. But since he’s not happy with anyone else we’re going to have to lead him there.” Bobby relayed the info back his arm finding a place around Buck’s shoulders.

“Is that safe?” Eddie asked before shushing the rumbling growl at the sting of antiseptic.

“It’s all we got. He can’t stay here. If he does it’ll just exasperate his condition.” Athena replied her brilliant mind already planning out a path. She’d been extending her senses looking for any threats to her boy and was quite willing to tear someone apart if needed.

Bobby could feel the minute shaking Buck’s body was doing. The shock he’d been fighting off was settling in. They didn’t have much time.

“Now. We go now. We can’t wait.” He said after a moment.

“Bobby. The halls aren’t clear yet.” Athena replied.

“He’s crashing. We go now, or not at all.”

Eddie looked into the now familiar eyes of his partner. Tired red eyes stared into his own. The sheer will behind those eyes shook him to the core. Buck seemed willing to push everything aside, even his own feral state, simply to keep his… no… their son safe.

That particular warmth bloomed once again in Eddie’s mind. A faint affirmative mixed with a little bit of apprehension and a lot of affection. A shaking hand reached and clasped his wrist holding on with surprising strength. That physical connection only made the feelings stronger.

It’d never occurred to either of them it wasn’t normal.

“Eddie?” Athena asked watching the dazed expression on the younger man’s face.

“Let’s go. He’ll be fine.” Was all he answered.  

Lacie and Ramone cut the corner only to screech to a halt at the sight before them.

Evan Buckley was surrounded by his family. Eddie held one arm while carrying Christopher in the other. Bobby held the other one and while Athena lead the group in full sentinel glory watching for danger. The massive tiger brought up the rear protecting their backs.

“I guess we’re doing this now.” She said before paging staff, “They’re on the way. Get that room ready. Right now.”

It was a slow walk. Buck doggedly never stopped walking even as the others noticed each step was more and more laborious. Each breath he took rattled in his lungs, his body stretched to the absolute max. Glances were exchanged as more and more he’d lean on the two other men. Every now and then, the tiger would butt him in the leg to keep him moving and he’d respond forcing his body to stand upright just to keep moving.

It felt like forever, but they’d managed to clear the doors when a scent crossed Buck’s nose.

Love, motherly warmth, and the tamales she’d always make for celebrations.

Abuela.

“Oh, Mi Evanito. ¿Qué te han hecho?/What have they done to you?” She whispered.

No one moved. They’d been lucky. There hadn’t been anyone in their path as they walked. Athena and Lacie would immediately have them stop until whoever it was passed.

Buck stepped forward reaching a shaking hand out only to let it fall on her shoulder. She immediately gathered him in her arms muttering prayers and supplications.

“Lets get you settled, no?” She said and began leading him to an open door nearby, “And I’ll bring you many foods. Los centinelas necesitan comer/ Sentinels need to eat. The food I will cook for you.”

Chris cheered at the sight of his grandmother who reached for him as soon as he was sat on his feet. The tiger, to its credit, appeared to be dancing around Abuela as she laughed and called him ‘Un tigre tan poderoso/Such a mighty tiger’ and offering head scratches. It found itself all but draped over Bobby’s lap while the older man laughed at its antics. Soon the pair were sequestered in a family room. It had already been discussed it wouldn’t be in anyone’s best interest to separate Chris and Buck just yet. Two doctors and a couple of nurses were waiting patiently as they were settled on their respective beds.

“Carino.”

Buck’s eyes immediately connected with Eddie’s seemingly waiting for whatever he was about to say.

“The doctors need to check you over. I need you to let them, ok?” Eddie asked his fingers brushing over his head.

Eddie felt more than heard the agreement. But there was a question floating there too.

“I won’t leave. I promise. I’ll be right here.”

Buck relaxed on the bed and the medical staff swarmed, immediately hooking up an IV and started a full workup. With his abrupt exit from the ward earlier, there hadn’t been time for one.

Eddie never left his side.

Lacie studied the pair with critical eyes.

“Ram, Do me a favor. Pull all the files you can find on Edmundo Diaz.”

“Why?” He asked with a tilt to his head.

“Because if I’m right, one problem may have solved itself.”

*

Bobby slumped in his chair breathing out a tired sigh of relief.

It had felt like this day had been the longest in the history of the universe. The bouts of emotional whiplash he’d gone through in the last 24 hours would take a lot of meditating to get through. Seeing Buck so injured and yet still going would be a mental picture he would never forget.

Now, however, was his time to simply watch over them.

Athena had left, wanting to catch at least a few hours of sleep before her shift but had brushed kisses on Buck and Chris’s head before sailing out the door. Abuela had returned home but sent Pepa back with a staggering amount of food and drinks along with extra clothes and toiletries for Eddie and Chris. Surprisingly, Chimney made a run to Buck’s apartment and gathered him clothes, toiletries, his keys, wallet, phone, and some books. He didn’t try coming in the room seeing the side eye a tiger gave him but wished them well and to call if they needed anything. Hen managed to sneak some extra packs of coffee and non-approved snacks in her care package of fruit and reading material.

Bobby hopped on the phone arranging off time for Buck, Eddie and himself as well as changing rotations and pulling floaters to cover the empty spots. He then walked into the bathroom and had a good cry over his son’s condition before pulling himself together and asking the room at large if Buck wanted a shower.

Buck was soon bundled back in bed freshly showered and rebandaged only to curl around Chris’s sleeping form and nod off himself. Eddie simply took up residence in a cot he’d demanded be brought in leaving the pull-out couch for Bobby’s pursual. The room seemed comfy almost homey with the festive and relieved atmosphere.

A soft grumble caught Bobby’s attention. The tiger placed its head in his lap once again demanding scritches. It was an affectionate thing following Bobby as he puttered around the room before bounding to Eddie and all but draping itself in his lap nuzzling him until the man pushed him back with a laugh. Then hopping up and batting playfully but so carefully at Chris causing gales of giggles and swats back.

Sprit animals were always reflections of their souls. Bobby’s lion and Athena’s lioness were fitting pieces to them. And a tiger suited Buck to the ground. Strength, cunning, independence and courageousness, only belonging to a soul with the fiery strength of sheer will.

“I wonder what your name is? Buck will know when he sees you, huh. You kept him safe. So, thank you.” Bobby whispered softly. An affectionate purr met his words.

“Danny.”

Bobby’s head snapped up meeting blessedly blue eyes.

“His name is Danny.” Buck said with a tired smile.

The older man hopped from his chair and gently tucked Buck back in. Buck nuzzled his pillow sleepily a soft smile gracing his face.

“I’m so happy you’re back, son. You get some rest. You need it.” Bobby said softly and brushed a soft kiss on his forehead.

“Night Dad. Thanks for being here.” Buck said softly before dozing off.

“Anytime, son. Anytime.”

*

Intellectually, Buck knew he’d be in a world of pain when he woke up.

Well…if he woke up.

That didn’t prepare him for the sheer throbbing pain that seemed to settle into his bones when he regained consciousness. That pain was followed by the most confusing combination of contentment and warmth mixed with adoration and sheer pride.

Mentally, he took stock.

He was in a comfortable bed, not his own, but comfortable enough. The room was blessedly silent save for the breathing of 3 people. For a second he allowed himself to get lost in the repetitive sound of air moving in and out of someone’s lungs.

Books, sage tea in the morning, and happiness.

Christopher slept in a bundle under his arm. He seemed peaceful, content. Bundled up in his blankets as he liked to do, he slept without a care considering the events of the day prior.

Warm chocolate, dirt after the rain and leather passed over his nose.

Buck wanted to smother himself in the scent. He actually purred softly snuggling into his bed and turning to the smell.

Eddie.

The older man lay drooling on his cot which was as close as it could get to the bed, almost a part of it. Buck could see soft stress lines marring his face, but Eddie looked relaxed, calm. His hair was mused from the pillow sticking up in all directions.

Another scent caught Buck’s attention.

Clean paper, freshly washed linen, and what he could only describe as fatherly love.

Bobby.

Blue eyes followed over the form sleeping soundly in his pull out. A blanket lay slung over his legs and a book sat in his lap while he quietly snored away.

Buck turned to the golden eyes staring at him.

“Lots of excitement, huh, Danny?”

Danny nuzzled his stomach in reply.

“Time to face the music. Lets get this show on the road.” Buck said before quietly and efficiently sliding himself from the bed with only a soft groan. He took precious seconds to disconnect the IV and heart monitors, unwilling to wake any of his family up.

Let them sleep for a while. Let them find peace in their dreams. There would be plenty of excitement later.

He took is time, getting himself dressed in the adjacent bathroom. Getting used to the pain took a bit of time but he managed to gather himself and slipped just as quietly from the room.

Lacie turned and stared at the large form gracing the doorway. Even being a sentinel herself, it always astounded her just how fast they could heal. Evan looked almost half dead the day prior. Now, the swelling that gripped his face was almost gone. The massive bruising had faded to yellow allowing his features to shine through. He seemed to be moving better, his wounds finally healing as they should.

Dressed in sweatpants and a LAFD hoodie he seemed almost approachable but there would always be that undercurrent, that awareness, about him. Mundane and gifted alike would always know there was something…more about him.

Alpha.

Sentinels would listen to his guidance. They would listen to his council. They would seek him out if there was a need.

“Ms. Collins, I’m Evan Buckley. I understand you need to speak with me.” He said with a smile after walking to her.

“Mr. Buckley. A pleasure to finally make your acquaintance. There’s a few things we need to discuss.” She said, shaking his hand and motioning to an empty room.

“Yeah. I figured. I’d rather we get this over with before they wake up. I’ll already be in trouble with my wardens when they realize I’ve done a runner.” Buck said, a goofy smile taking over his face.

“Your father seemed the strict one.” She said with a laugh.

“No. Not him. He’s about to mother hen me to death. Eds will probably storm in yelling in Spanish while Chris frowns in this cute way he has and tell me I’m not allowed to be a ninja without him… and honestly I don’t need them hearing what happened.” A sad smile graced Buck’s face, “They don’t need to know. Not now anyway. Not while it’s so fresh.”

Lacie nodded all too familiar with that thought. Keep the worst parts away from those that would take it too hard.

Ramone followed his sentinel attempting to get a read on the fresh new addition to their tribe. There was a genuine warmth that came from him. A goodness that exuded from his pores. Evan Buckley was genuinely a good man wanting the best for his family.

Buck sat on the empty bed and waited patiently. His soul was itching to hide back in that room, curl back in bed, and nurse the bone deep weariness that plagued him. But this had to be done. He had to sit and relive the scariest day of his life and he would do it. Then he would curl up back in his bed and pretend the outside world didn’t exist for a while.

Lacie sat in a chair pulling out her tablet and turned on the voice recorder.

“Let’s begin.”

Buck took a breath.

“It was around 2 in the afternoon when I heard a knock on my door…”

*

“Daddy. Daddy? Daddy!”

Eddie snorted awake at his son’s calling, stretching with a groan.

“Mijo, is everything ok?” He asked.

“Buck’s gone.”

It took a second for that statement to connect.

“WHAT?” Eddie shot up from his bed staring at his son and the overly large cat that had taken Buck’s place in his covers.

“I woke up and Buck wasn’t here. But I think he’s nearby.” Chris stated calmly while scratching the tigers head, “I don’t think the kitty would be here if Bucky was in trouble.”

“What happened?” Bobby asked with a groan rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

“Buck’s done a runner.” Eddie said deadpan quickly throwing a hoodie over his bare chest, “but I know where he is.”

“Where?” Bobby shot up grabbing his shoes, “Did you see him leave?”

“No. But he’s that way.” Eddie said vaguely pointing in a direction, “Maybe a room over or so.”

Bobby stopped midway through tying his shoes.

“How do you know that?” Bobby’s eyes narrowed in suspicion one thought occurring to him with lightning speed. Bobby knew that. He felt for Buck the moment he knew the younger man was missing. 

Eddie shouldn’t know.

“I dunno. I feel it.” Eddie shrugged before striding out the room.

A brief second was all it took before he was storming down the hallway and abruptly opening the door.

“Here we go…” Buck sighed before readying himself.

“¿Qué diablos crees que estás haciendo? Se supone que deberías estar en la cama/ What the hell do you think you’re doing? You’re supposed to be in bed. I can’t believe you would up and disappear like that. You want my hair to fall out don’t you. You absolute…” Eddie began shouting as he began aggressively checking Buck over.

Buck just smiled as serene as an untouched pool of water.  

“Apologies, Mr. Diaz. We wanted to get the interview out of the way as soon as possible. With the information of a possible crime scene out there it was imperative to get it found and cordoned off as soon as possible.” Lacie looked slightly concerned at the older man moving the sentinel this way and that in an effort to find hidden damage, but it seemed Buck was more amused than anything.

“Eds. I’m fine. Sore and tired but fine. You know as well as I do to get everything out as quickly as possible, so you don’t forget anything.” Buck said with a smile.

“I don’t have to like it. Run off again and I’ll handcuff you to the bed.” Eddie replied with a huff before plopping down next to his partner.

“Oooo. Kinky.” Buck waggled his eyebrows and watched with satisfaction as a fetching blush flooded Eddies face.

“Anyway. As I was saying, there’s some discrepancies in your file we need to address.” Internally Lacie was laughing at the dynamic the two had but also she studied their body language.

Eddie had sat as close as possible, shoulder to hip, hip to knee. Buck simply shifted giving him extra space, but never moved away.

This would make what she had to say easier.

“Discrepancies? How so?” Eddie asked with a frown.

“It seems Evan…”

“Buck. Nobody really calls him Evan.” Eddie corrected gently.

“Ah. Buck then. It seems Buck never got tested for the gene. Well. As far as we know.” Lacie said glancing to her tablet.

“That shouldn’t be possible. Its mandatory, right.” Buck asked confused. His fingers caught Eddies, twining together seemingly without their input.

“It is. But here’s the thing. Your medical records are missing, from infancy to about age 4. They simply aren’t there. Vaccinations, checkups, you name it its missing. Even your birth certificate was filed a year after you were born. The only reason we confirmed your birthdate is because of hospital records.” She stated.

“I would imagine,” Buck began leaning into Eddie for comfort, “You would need to look up my brother to get the rest of my records. I knew there was something fishy going on.”

“Brother? He’s not listed in you file.” Lacie began flipping through pages on her tablet with a frown, “There’s no mention of him whatsoever.”

“No,” Buck chuckled sadly, “I’d imagine not. Look up Daniel Michael Buckley. Born June 1995. He’s the reason I even exist right now.”

Lacie blinked.

“Explain. Please.” She tacked on the please.

“I was a savior baby. My purpose for being born was to save my older brother who had juvenile Leukemia. If you look at his files you’ll see he got a bone marrow transplant, but I’m not listed as a donor. I thought it was weird the paperwork said he had an anonymous donation but it’s beginning to make more sense.” Buck shook his head at his parents audacity. 

“How so? Cause I’m confused.” Eddie said looking from Lacie, who had an alarmed expression on her face, to Buck who looked just done.

“People who carry the gene can’t give donations to people who don’t. That’s why when you go to something as simple as a blood drive, they ask if you carry it or not. From blood, to organs, to blood marrow, if you don’t have the gene it’s like giving a person needing a transfusion saline water. It helps but you need their blood type to make a difference.” Buck explained confidently.

Lacie looked at both men with a critical eye. The duo looked completely comfortable in each other’s space. Diaz stared intently into Buck’s eyes hanging on every word he said. There was a level of intimacy the pair exhibited that wasn’t unlike her and Ram. A sentinel and guide pair bonded to the deepest level they possibly could be.

“So. What you’re saying is your parents had you and used you as an anonymous donor in an attempt to subvert… what exactly?” Eddie’s question tuned Lacie back into the conversation.

“Best guess. They knew I carried the gene, but desperation makes people do dumb things.” Buck answered with a sad shrug, “I was a match to Daniel. It’s very possible I was tested, probably privately and off the books, and they pretty much ignored the tests and when through the donation anyway in hopes Daniel would take it.”

“That’s… Buck… If they did that… that means they…” Eddie couldn’t finish the sentence, his voice choaking on the words. His hands tightened on the younger man’s wishing to offer some comfort.

Ram stood up and walked into the hall, his trusty phone already to his ear relaying the information to the Center.

“Your parents were transported via plane to the Center here in LA. We’ll get your answers. They will pay for what they’ve done to you and your brother.” Lacie said firmly, “As we speak, the LAFD and the Center are combing through your parents very lives. Whatever they’re hiding, we’ll find it.”

Buck could only nod unable to speak for the moment.

“What about Buck? He’s a sentinel so he’s gonna have to go for training, right? I mean he should have had support for years before all of this. And he’ll need to find a guide.” Eddie felt absolute revulsion at the statement, however it needed to be said. As much as he didn’t like it, Eddie would have to stow those feelings that had been stewing within him from the moment they met.

Eventually Buck would find his guide, his fated match, and he would ride off into the metaphorical sunset… without him.

The thought made his stomach turn.

“That…won’t be necessary.” Lacie said with a small grin.

“Come again?” Buck now fully back asked with a curious tilt to his head.

“Mr. Diaz, where you ever aware you were classified as latent?” Lacie was full on grinning now.

“What? No. I tested negative for the gene. My parents were always disappointed I didn’t have it. They had this dream of having a sentinel for a son.” Eddie looked confused, his eyes jumping to Buck.

“Huh. Ram?” Lacie turned to her guide.

He just smiled and headed back out the door.

“This is going to come as a shock.” Lacie said biting her lip, “But you, Eddie, are a latent guide.”

Both men looked astonished. Eddie, for his part, looked a mixture of shocked, hurt and somehow resigned.

“What did my parents do?” He asked suddenly exhausted. He slumped in his seat only to lean on Buck who seemed agitated all of a sudden.

“That’s what I’m about to find out. On a hunch, we pulled your files as well as your sons. Both you and young Christopher carry the gene. It wouldn’t shock me if he’ll be a guide like you will be when you come online.”

Eddie blinked breathing out a sigh.

“But that doesn’t explain why Eds hasn’t come online yet. I mean, we’ve gone through a lot. You would assume he’d ping or something. Like I did.” Buck said reverting Lacie’s attention to him. He seemed… upset.

Well… Upset and willing to throw things. Or people.

“There’s a lore, behind Sentinels and Guides. There’s a bond for us all. Someone out there for us. The center does meet and greets and mixers to push things along but that thought drives us, keeps us from losing hope. You’re an alpha, Buck. The rules are different for you.” She said with a gentle smile.

“How so?” Buck asked on guard.

“Sentinels and Guides are pretty common. Our community is small as compared to the mundane populace but we’re not rare. Alpha’s are…uncommon. Some call it a weird quirk of genetics while others’ call it a simple act of biology but Alphas and Alpha Primes. There’s only so many of them. We’ve been studying the science behind our very genetics for generations, and we still haven’t figured it out. But one thing we know is that when an Alpha or an Alpha Prime comes online their bond is usually right behind them.” Lacie said.

“So.. what we wait for an alpha guide to pop up and what… push Buck in a room with them?” Eddie’s snark was biting.

“No. We’ll just leave you two to it and eventually you, Eddie, will come online.” Lacie said deciding to rip the Band-Aid off as it were.

“What?” Buck said stunned.

“You haven’t noticed? You came online yesterday, Buck. You should be completely overwhelmed at your new senses, struggling to adapt from perceiving nothing to perceiving everything. But you’re not. Before, you were uncomfortable, but as soon as Eddie walked in the room you completely relaxed. Yesterday in a full feral episode you responded to two people. Eddie and his son. You’ve imprinted on them both and there’s only one explanation for that. Eddie is your guide.” She said stating facts.

“But…I mean… wouldn’t I have noticed?” Eddies’ words stumbled over themselves attempting to find some type of ground in a world flipped upside down.

“If you had been trained to look for it, yes. But if what you’ve said is true, your parents deprived that from you and your son. As it is, Christopher should have been in a mentorship program with his status. And that doesn’t mention the programs available for children of the community with disorders. There will be consequences for their actions.”

Eddie looked at Buck watching those blue eyes stare into his own.

“One half of a whole idiot.”

“What?” Eddie looked confused.

“Hen said… we’re each one half of a whole idiot.” Buck said, a dazed smile on his face.

That warmth bloomed inside his mind, a mental hug. An overly affectionate cat nuzzling against his psyche. Eddie felt settled, like sitting in his favorite chair, cuddled with Chris watching a movie.

“That’s you.” Eddie said astonishment coating his tone, “That feeling. That’s you.”

“You feel like a wall. A warm living wall that keeps all the bad out. Like my favorite blanket on a cold night.” Buck said his body swaying slightly into Eddie’s frame.

“Its…incredible.” Eddie felt just as dazed almost high.

Buck buried his face in Eddie’s neck breathing in deeply. A soft growl escaped his chest. Eddie nuzzled Buck’s face, his eyes half-mast before sharpening on Lacie. A dangerous glint entered the older man’s eyes.

“Oh boy.” Lacie said, before turning to her guide, “Let get them back to their room. Eddie’s coming online.”

Eddie stood, bring Buck with him and together they shuffled back to their home for the next few days. Bobby’s seeing what was happening quickly said his goodbyes to Chris and Danny before fleeing the room. He’d clocked it pretty quickly and was already making calls to get Eddie time off.

Lacie and Ram looked on in amusement.

“You know, Lee,” Ram said with a grin, “Just looking at them, you would think Eddie’s the sentinel. You saw that look he gave you. Like he was protecting his territory.”

“He’s gonna have his hands full with that one. I guarantee it.” She replied before taking off down the hall.

They had a lot more work to do.

*

Bonding had to be held off for a few reasons.

First, Christopher was there. Hard no.

Second, neither men felt comfortable. While they were secluded inside a room that was safe, it wasn’t home. Home was the little house Eddie and Chris shared with Buck. When the topic was breached, Lacie as well as the rest of the staff assigned to them pretty much vetoed the idea immediately. An almost-bonded pair making their way across LA just to go home and bond made anyone that heard it cringe with what could go wrong.

Neither cared.

Buck used that extremely sharp hearing of his and when the coast was clear, the trio quietly but quickly made their way through the unit and out the hospital. It was easy to locate Eddie’s truck and the trio were gone with none the wiser.

It seemed like any other day. Buck and Eddie stood quietly arguing over who would drive before Eddie hopped in the passenger seat with a snarky grin while Buck, with a put upon expression on his face, plopped in the driver seat and grumbled as he drove off.

The near permanent on edge state disappeared the moment Buck walked in the house. The familiar scent of Eddie and Chris invaded his senses bringing a peace he’d been unable to fully achieve from the moment he came online. The duo went through the motions, getting Chris settled, Buck making dinner, Eddie demanding the shower first, Chris giggling at Danny claiming the love seat as his new official home while Buck gave him the stink eye.

Two cell phones were plugged in but also vigorously ignored save for a few messages stating they were fine and would present themselves to the Center as soon as possible.

Abuela took it the best, almost immediately sending Pepa to the store for ingredients to cook up a storm. Bobby, while not agreeing with it, also began cooking and coordinating with Abuela on what to make.

Athena threatened to drive over and arrest them if they didn’t go back to the hospital. It took a lot for Bobby to calm her down. She did…eventually.

Lacie and Ram both sighed aggressively but ultimately left them be. They had bigger fish to fry.

By silent agreement, the pair decided the best option was for Buck to fully heal before bonding. The Center sent a full care package full of information on what they could expect from bonding as well as extra food, snacks, and other…materials that had Buck smirking while wagging his eyebrows and Eddie beet red. An emergency skype call was set up for both of them, each assigned a mentor fully apprised of the situation, to give them a crash course on both their biology and gifts that had been dumped in their laps.

Chris was also assigned a brand-new mentor and was given his own Care-Kart complete with kid friendly learning material, toys, snacks, and a brand-new iPad. He was also assigned a mentor, Hector Gonzales, who other than being a guide also had CP. It did wonders seeing someone just like him making his way through life like any other ordinary person.

It took almost 2 weeks for Buck to be back to 100%. Thankfully there were no broken bones, other than Buck’s hard head which took the longest to heal, his body was still healing the torn muscles and abrasions that decorate skin. Buck spent 3 days in bed with what he would have believed was a serious case of the flu if it had not been for his mentor Nathanial calmly explaining that yes, he did come online, but his body was now fully catching up with the program. His body down to a cellular level was changing…

“Like puberty…”

“Pretty much, yeah.”

(‘Eds! I’m not gonna drop another set of balls…. Seriously…STOP LAUGHING!’)

(‘Is widdle Buck’s voice gonna crack… It’s ok, carino…make sure you clean the pubes off the toilet’)

Eddie, meanwhile, had struck up a solid rapport with his mentor, Mai Yung. Mai understood, more than most, Eddie’s circumstances. Her parents hid the fact she was a latent guide most of her life until she abruptly came online in the middle of giving birth to her first child. She now worked as a mentor, helping those in the same situation parce through as best as they could.

The outside world was avoided. Other than checking in with family, the duo ignored everything else. They spent time with Chris helping him with homework or just spending time with him. They reorganized the house, getting rid of various scented cleaning products for sentinel safe ones.

They also made out like teenagers whenever the chance arose. The moment Christopher was asleep the two were in entwined in each other’s arms. While they both agreed that bonding could wait until later, each of them…needed…that physical connection.

To say the duo were growing a hickey crop was an understatement.

Buck and Eddie, for once, used their words. They broke open the something that had been dogging their steps from the moment they’d met. Embarrassment didn’t matter. The drive for their bond to thrive no matter how it came about drove both of them to hash every little thing out. Nothing was left unanswered.

The day Christopher left to stay with Abuela for a few days was nerve wracking for both men.

Eddie was only quasi-online. The general consensus was that bonding would tip Eddie over. It helped that his sentinel was right there, and bonding would happen almost immediately. There was a suggestion that they relocate to one of the bonding facilities the Center offered but neither agreed. They wanted to be home.

It felt easy, normal. No shyness or awkwardness of any kind. They had always been BuckandEddie but it would be permanent now.

Eddie straddled Buck’s hips, covered in sweat, grasping at Buck like a lifeline. Every press of Buck’s hips sent sharp waves of pleasure through him. All he could think about was Buck, his mind a litany of his name. Buck mouthed at his neck, leaving kisses like promises on his skin.  Eddie could feel that precipice just out of reach. He both wanted to tip over, to fall into oblivion, but also to hold on to this moment. His head fell back, giving Buck more room to work. Buck’s massive hands clenched on his hips bouncing him harder, faster, using that inhumane strength to take what he wanted, what they both needed.

Then he felt it. Like Buck holding out a hand, a sunny smile of welcome and forever on his face.

Eddie reached out and grabbed that hand, and together they fell.

*

Eddie zombie walked through the house the next morning wanting his usual pot of coffee.

He did not expect a pair of almost glowing yellow eyes following his every move through the house nor the extra being watching him make coffee.

When his mind finally caught up with the rest of the world, he wondered what it said about him to completely ignore a massive wolf sitting primly in his kitchen next to a tiger seemingly wanting its attention.

“Rafe. You’re Rafe.” Eddie said with a sleepy yawn.

Rafe seemingly agreed before pouncing on his fellow spirit animal and began to aggressively groom him.

Eddie felt a little poke at the bond and wandered off, coffee forgotten.

Someone else wanted his… attention…and who was he to deny his mate.

Yelling was the first thing Buck heard upon walking into the Center. He took a second and focused, Eddie immediately raising their shields.

“Maddie?” Buck turned and stared into beloved chocolate brown eyes.

“Well. Time to be nosy.” Eddie said with a grin, those sharp fang like teeth catching the light.

The two slipped pass the reception area, following Buck’s keen hearing, into the more restricted areas of the building. Whenever someone would pass by, Buck would smile absently in greeting while Eddie would shrug and say:

“He found something interesting.” With a what can you do smile.

What they found wasn’t what either was expecting.

“I can’t believe you two. You lied to me. You lied to Evan. And we’re supposed to thank you? What kind of people are you?” Maddie yelled from inside a room, seemingly staring her parents down.

Lacie stood outside the door looking unsurprised to see Buck and Eddie rounding the corner.

“Nice to see you both. Congratulations on your bond.” She said with a smile and a nod,” As you can see…your sister wanted a word with your parents. Its…going.”

Buck nodded slightly while Eddie looked murderously at the room.

“Oh, and that’s supposed to make me feel better. Screw you both. I can’t believe I let you talk me into keeping this from him.”

“After questioning, Ms. Buckley was unhappy to say the least at your parents actions. She only knew the bare bones of what happened and when we filled in the blanks…well… you can see what’s happening.” Lacie said ignoring the commotion.

“Ah. Makes sense.” Buck said with a calm smile.

“Can I talk to them. Just for a second.” Eddie asked, an evil smirk on his face.

“No.” Lacie and Buck said in unison. Buck knew full well what would happen if he did.

Buck turned to the room and quietly opened the door.

Maddie stood in her furious glory, hands planted on hips, yelling her head off. Pregnancy hadn’t done nothing to diminish her need to protect Buck from them, even if they weren’t speaking.  Their parents seemed crowed at her anger, trying to explain but was quiet in her anger.

“I’m done. You hear me? I’m done with you both. I used to make excuses for you. ‘You’re not bad people, just bad parents’. No. You’re bad people. I will NEVER speak to you both again. I can’t speak for Evan, but as far as I’m concerned, I have no parents.” She shouted her hair whipping furiously around her.

“Maddie.” Buck’s voice cut through the room like a knife.

Maddie spun around. Buck stood leaning on the door jam, his arms folded over his massive chest. His spirit animal trotted forward in greeting, rubbing affectionately at her side before gently nudging her out the door. With a huff, she spun on her heels and marched passed Buck, head held high even as tears began streaming down her face.

Buck studied his parents for a long moment. He said nothing while they geared themselves up, demanding he fix their circumstances. In the face of the anger, disappointment, rage, and apathy he felt nothing for them.

Danny’s growl cut them off. His glowing yellow eyes flinty as they stared in shock at the sprit animal.

“Danny. Let’s go.” He said before turning his back to them.

His mother jerked at the name and watched as the tiger walked out the room stopping only to rub against his sentinel.

“How dare you use that name? How dare you…?” Margret screeched before she was cut off.

“I would imagine…. His sprit animal would be a tiger if he’d lived, if he had the gene. After all. He loved them, remember?” Buck’s voice was wistful, “His favorite stuffed animal was a tiger. I always wondered who Daniel was when I got it. I’m glad it was his.”

“Carino, Todavía puedo hablar con ellos. /Darling, I can still talk to them.” Eddie said, a menacing smile on his face. He enjoyed the paling the Buckley’s faces did at his expression.

“No, Babe. I’m done here.” Buck said and walked closing the door softly behind him.

For a second, he studied his sisters face. Tears streamed from her eyes, but she looked resolute, firm in her decision. With a swift motion, he gathered her in his arms and let her break down. Maddie cried. She cried for a brother she didn’t get to morn. She cried for parents that could have been great but chose to be otherwise. She cried for her much-loved younger brother who struggled from their parents apathy.  

Buck simply rocked her holding her firm against everything.

“I’m so sorry. I’ve been such a bitch and I...” She said sniffling.

“Hey. We’re gonna be ok.” He replied softly.

“Still. I’ve been horrible and I brought everyone in our business and I’m just a bitch.” She said with a sad huff.

“Yeah. It was pretty bitchy. But now you know.” He said patting her back, “But calm down before you hurt yourself. I’m not sure how long you’ve been exploding but bring it down. It can’t be good for the baby.”

“Yeah. I’m ok. Calming down. I just can’t believe…”

“Maddie…”

“Ok. Ok. I’m calm.” She blew a breath.

“As it happens some of the information uncovered does pertain to Ms. Buckley, if you’ll have her join us. There’s a few tibits of info she may find interesting.” Lacie said calmly watching the scene unfold in front of her.

Maddie nodded and followed her brother down the hall silently but also resolved in herself to make it short. She could see the side eye Eddie was giving her and it wasn’t a welcoming one. There was a lot of making up she had to do, one apology wouldn’t fix her actions as of late. She had a lot of apologies to make to many people. At least this was a start.

“To start,” Lacie said once they all had been settled at an adjacent conference room, “Mr. and Mrs. Buckley have been officially charged and are awaiting their day in court. From what forensics, both us and the LAPD in conjunction with the Pennsylvania State Police, has uncovered they will be looking at lengthy jail time. Probably for the rest of their lives.”

“If I can ask, what exactly? I know tampering with medical records is extremely illegal but what else.” Maddie asked slightly confused but also resigned.

“That’s one of the reasons I asked you to stay, Ms. Buckley. Along with medical fraud, there is also charges of bribery and inheritance fraud.” She replied stoically.

“Inheritance fraud, wha?” Buck turned to Maddie who had an equally puzzled expression on her face. Beneath the table, Buck’s fingers intwined with Eddies almost unconsciously reaching for support.

“Your grandparents, Charles and Georgia Buckley, left their pretty substantial holdings in trust to three people, Madelyn Charlette Buckley, Daniel Michael Buckley and Evan Christopher Buckley to be released at your 21st birthday. Upon Daniel’s death his third was split between the two of you. Were either of you aware of this?”

“No. This is the first time I’m hearing about this. Mads?”

“Me neither. When I got married, our parents cut me off. They never mentioned it.” The confusion was palpable on both of their faces.

Eddie sat in silence already realizing what was going on. His fingers tightened on Bucks’ offering as much support as he could.

“Short version, your parents used your inheritance to cover bribes given in exchange for silence with your brothers treatment. After he died, they forged documents siting your consent to turn it over to them and effectively drained it dry to maintain their lifestyle. To the tune of around 5 million dollars split between the two of you and that does come with interest.” Lacie stated bluntly.

“What the fu..”

“How could they…”

“Fortunately, they left a paper trail. Inside a safe in their home a list was uncovered listing names and amounts. Arrests are happening as we speak to prevent something like this from happening again. As for your parents assets, they will be liquidated to recoup the loss from your trust and the amount returned to you plus interest. Things are happening pretty fast, but it could take some time.” Lacie studied the trio in front of her.

Maddie looked stunned almost in shock at the news she just heard.

Eddie looked furious on his sentinel’s behalf.

Buck looked resigned as if his parents actions didn’t phase him. Maybe they didn’t anymore.

Maddie left after that, wanting to be alone with her thoughts. Buck excuse the absent-minded farewell knowing what was on her mind.

That money could have saved her from Doug. She could have left sooner under her own power but couldn’t because of her own flesh and bloods greed.

There would be no repairing that relationship.

“As for Mr. Diaz, sanctions have already been levied at your parents Ramon and Helena Diaz. While what they did isn’t technically illegal, it is heavily frowned on.” She said after a moment.

“Why sanctions? I would assume full charges.” Buck said noting Eddie’s inner panic.

“Both Eddie and young Christopher were tested, and it is shown in their paperwork, but his parents never informed him about his status. Now an argument can be made that he should have looked himself but honestly why would he? If someone’s parents say they don’t have the gene most people don’t think about it again. They are being sanctioned on their actions towards both Eddie and Christopher. We don’t take the threat of removing a child from anyone including non and bonded parents lightly and especially on false pretenses. Since he’s dad is an online guide, they were essentially told if they kept it up they would not be allowed to contact either until Christopher’s 18^th birthday or the full force of the Center would be behind it.” Lacie said with a slight grin.  

Eddie felt like for the first time he could breathe. He’d never have to worry about his parents trying to take his son ever again. He felt almost high in his relief the only thing holding him to earth was Buck’s hand holding his own.

“Now. As to the kidnapping, the scene has been successfully identified but some got to it first. It was clean.”

Buck’s eyes sharpened but he said nothing now fully listening.

“What do you mean, cleaned?” Eddie demanded a jolt of fear crawling down his spine.

“Someone got there first. Other than Buck’s blood and the trail he left leaving the area, the warehouse itself is completely bare. No bodies, no blood, nothing. Someone didn’t want anything coming back to them.” Lacie was just as baffled as the duo in front of her.

Well…one of them.

As the other two began hashing over details, Buck sat back in his chair, his brilliant mind running over all the facts he knew. If the SEAL’s taught him anything, it was how to find someone.

‘I guess I’ll have to deal with it, then.’ Buck mused to himself.

*

It took almost 12 weeks for Eddie and Buck to return to work. After a lengthy explanation to the higher ups within the LAFD with the Center acting as liaison, the duo was granted FLMA leave immediately. Thankfully they wouldn’t have to recertify but would have to get full clearance from the Center before coming back to work.

It was an adjustment, to say the least. The first few weeks were spent moving Buck’s stuff in Eddie’s home, selling his loft, settling their finances, and learning to live with each other permanently. Christopher was ecstatic loving having his Buck around full time.

It was challenging and yet so easy at the same time.

Being bonded was unlike anything Buck and Eddie had felt before. The fear of being left behind simply didn’t exist in their world. It felt deeper, more solid than anything the two had ever felt before. The notion of being separate simply didn’t exist. They were whole together. So they would stay that way.

The Center put them through their paces. The training they’d been deprived was all but thrown at them. Thankfully, both of their stents in the military and being first responders had blessed them with a tenacious drive to be the best at whatever they did. Eddie excelled his natural authoritative nature a perfect mixture with Buck’s willingness to follow his lead. That did not mean Buck blindly went where Eddie led but it was a perfect mesh of both of their personalities.

Many of the sentinels and guides they encountered said the same thing:

‘So… whose who again?’

Buck would giggle every time someone mistook them. Eddie’s willingness to throw down at a drop of a hat mixed well with Buck’s ability to let things roll off his shoulders. It suited them.

‘Eds. I’m used to being a chameleon. I’m clumsy and bright and happy. Being underestimated is my greatest weapon. So, use it.’  

2 very different men walked into firehouse 118 after their time off. There was an assurance following their steps. A confidence both lacked was now on full display. Buck’s stood tall, his bright smile welcoming and friendly. Eddie stood at his side a soft grin on his face at his sentinel’s happiness.

Everything was as it should be.

In a home in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Hollywood, a stately man walked into his study ready to handle a little bit of leftover business before turning in for the night. The study was dark, only illuminated by the lighting from the storm raging outside.

“Dimitri Romovna. We’ve been expecting you.”

Dimitri jerked before the room was filled with the dim light from his desk lamp. A tall blonde sat comfortably sprawled in his chair with a charming smile on his face. A soft click sounded through the room, the door closing gently behind him.

“I’m at a loss. You are?” Dimitri attempted to recover but was fully caught off guard. The panic button he’d installed in his office to call his guards was at his desk.

He was completely cut off from help.

“I’m Evan Buckley.” Buckley said his expression never changing, “Your brother and I had an… altercation…around 5 months ago. I wanted to … follow up…with you about it.”

 “Ah yes.” Dimitri said, a nervous twitch to his eye,” I would like to extend my apologies. While this organization has some less than acceptable forms of income, I do not agree with kidnapping children.”

“So. You didn’t agree with your brother taking OUR SON.” Another man melted from the shadows his face showing anger. His hands clenched around nothing almost begging for a fight. He moved to stand behind his partner, his hands laying peacefully on the back of the chair.

Dimitri didn’t have to guess who this was.

Edmundo Diaz.

“Of course not. It was foolish to even attempt such a thing. Do you have any idea how much it cost to cover up this whole affair? Millions. His losses wasn’t a fraction on what would have had to be paid if his stupid mistake became public. It would have destroyed everything our parents built.”  He began pacing as he spoke, anger at his brothers actions.

Silence reigned through the room as the two men regarded the third. No words were spoken as Dimitri was essentially judged.

“I… am willing to let this go.” Buckley’s words was a surprise.

“You are?” Dimitri asked, shock in his tone.

“Yes.” He replied, “I’m willing to look the other way. I’m fine. Our son is fine. Your brother is dead and won’t be bothering us again. Hence, we are even.” Buckley crossed his legs before his eyes glared into Dimitri’s soul.

Red.

“If you or yours sniff around me or mine again… There won’t be a place you can hide from me. I’ll find you. My guide will find you.. and when we do… we’ll tear you apart. Do you understand?”

Dimitri’s eyes cut to the guide standing placidly next to his sentinel.

Red eyes glowed.

The soft rumble of growls began echoing through the room. Two animals, one wolf snarling softly with drool dripping from his maw and a tiger rumbling with anger appeared.

“And just as a reminder, it won’t be just us. Our tribe is right behind us. We’ll hunt you down and tear everything you built apart. From your businesses to your associates and then… you.” Diaz stated a fierce grin on his face.

Lightning flashed from the windows behind them. The silhouettes of nameless individuals lit up the room.  All stood silently outside the window waiting for a word… a command.

“The feud is done.” Dimitri stated firmly.

“It’s done.” Buckley said.

His guide nodded firmly.

Lightning flashed.

When the spots cleared from Dimitri’s eyes… he was alone.