This story has been re-edited for inclusion in Susan's Sentinel Stories Volume 5

GDP Series

Sentinel Conference

By Susan Foster

The captain had to admit that the Sentinel Sanctuary had been quite restful...  well, once the excitement had died down.  And it had one hell of a trout stream; the fish he caught must have been all of 18 inches.  Simon was pleased he had the photographs to back up his story; he was going to get boasting rights on that fish for the next six months. 

While he fished, the Sentinel and his Guide had spent nearly all their waking time together, either working on their link or relaxing.  Sandburg had turned out to be surprisingly good at shooting hoops.  His ankle was still tender but he was getting around a lot better by the end of their vacation. 

Watching them together had been an education, like looking at the flip side of the same coin.  Oh, there had been some explosive arguments that had made him fear for the kid's life, but Jim had never raised a hand to his Guide.  The Sentinel had stormed out fuming on more than one occasion but had eventually returned, calmed down.  Blair had gone looking for him sometimes, which is what had led to their recent adventure but whether the Sentinel returned or the Guide went looking, the result was always the same, and the two men would be back in synch again. 

He couldn't help but chuckle softly as he remembered the GDP caretaker who had made the mistake of trying to stop Blair on a midnight run to the fridge.  Jim had made it clear that particular Guide ate when he was hungry and this particular Sentinel did not take kindly to anyone manhandling his Guide.  It was a mistake the man had never made again. 

Banks grinned at Captain Taggart, "How were things?" The captain smiled tolerantly, "So the mighty fisherman has returned.  Too bad some of us have to work for a living, Simon, and can't afford to be men of leisure.  Actually it was quiet for once; the biggest pain has been this Sentinel Conference coming up.  They've had three crank calls already threatening to disrupt the event and "liberate the Guides from slavery.”  Taggert's tone provided the quotation marks.  "The callers were all known to the GDP and we've started surveillance on them.  Personally, I think they're all bark and no bite, but since the Governor is going to be there for opening ceremonies we're not taking any chances.” 

Joel looked out across the bullpen to where Sandburg and Ellison were surrounded by Rafe, Brown and Anderson.  The Guide's hands were flying as he explained something at great length.  Ellison wore a tolerant look for his young partner's exuberance.  Taggert grimaced, "We're going to have a serious problem over this conference, Simon.” 

"In what way, Joel?"

"I read through the instructions for the event.  All the Guides have to attend wearing their graduation uniform.  Normally they wouldn't wear it but the GDP want to make some point or other.” 

"So?"

"So, Blair doesn't have one.  Remember, he was rogue.” 

"Tell me this is not going in the direction I think it is," Banks sounded as weary as he had not just come back from vacation. 

"I checked.  The GDP protocol people confirmed that Blair has to wear the uniform of the correction facility marking him a rogue.  I argued until I was blue in the face, they won't budge on their position.  All Guides that went through the correction facility have to wear the uniform, red coveralls with...” 

"A black circle on the front and back.  I've seen it, Joel.”  There was distaste in the captain's voice. 

"The kid is going to go ballistic over this, Simon.”  Worry was clear in the simple statement.  "Then we don't tell him until he has to know, Joel.  They've just been through a rough patch because of Jim's head injury.  I don't want them to have to deal with this now.  I'll tell them closer to the event.  In the meantime we keep quiet about it, okay?"

"Okay.  But, Simon, I don't like this.  That kid's one of us now.” 

"That makes two of us, Joel.” 

* * *

The next few weeks flew by.  Three cases were closed, the last one giving particular pleasure to the Sentinel because he hadn't needed his ‘Sentinel’ abilities to crack it. 

"Well done, Jim, you did some good work there.”  Simon congratulated him warmly. 

"Nice to know I haven't lost my touch, that I'm more than a genetic freak.” 

"What's wrong, Jim?" Simon didn't like the bitterness he heard in Ellison's voice. 

"Huh, 'what's right' is what you should be asking, Simon.  Every time I close a case I see the look on their faces.” 

"What look, Jim?"

"The look that says, "He wouldn't have solved that unless he was a Sentinel.”  Dammit, I was solving cases before the senses showed up and I'd still be a detective without them.” 

"Where's Sandburg?" Simon looked around for the Sentinel's ever present shadow; Blair would know how to get Ellison out of his funk. 

"He's at his University office.  Now that he's teaching and taking classes again, he's got paperwork to do.  You wouldn't believe the pile of tests he's got to grade for Anthro 101.  Not to mention the stuff he needs to get his own work done.  I swear, Simon, sometimes the loft looks as if a paper mill exploded over the place.”  Simon smiled slightly at the note of fond exasperation in Jim's complaint.  He nodded to himself, now he knew why Jim was acting like a bear with a sore head, his Guide was not where the Sentinel could keep an eye on him and Ellison was fretting about the kid. 

"How's he doing with the separation thing?  I mean his barriers?"

"Not too bad.  He managed to make it through yesterday without any problems, but I don't want to leave him there too long.  He's strong, Simon, but maintaining his own barriers really drains him.  Dr Woodward is keeping an eye on him for me and my cell phone is on his speed dial.” 

That same cell phone rang and Jim said a quick, "Speak of the devil" as he dug it out of his pocket.  "Ellison,” he growled into the phone and then his face clouded.  "Okay, I'm on my way.  Give him space and don't touch him.” 

"Jim?"

"Blair, he's in his office with a knife and he won't let anyone get near him.”  Jim was already moving towards the door. 

"Keep me informed.”  Ellison's pace didn't even slow as he answered Bank's order with a terse, "Yes, sir.” 

Ellison arrived at Hargrove Hall, cursing as he spotted a GDP van.  Next to it was a Cascade PD squad car.  The patrolman came over to him. 

"Detective Ellison, I called you as soon as we got here and recognized your Guide.” 

"What's the situation?" The uniform was practically jogging to keep up with the Sentinel's impatient strides. 

"Sandburg's in his office.  He's got a knife and won't let anyone near him.  He's screaming about people touching him.  Looks like he's on something, Detective.” 

"Blair's clean.  He doesn't do drugs.  I have to practically force him to take an aspirin.  Someone must have slipped him something.” 

When he reached Blair's office, Ellison saw two men in their twenties wearing GDP uniforms arguing with an older policeman.  He muttered something under his breath as he saw the restraints they carried.  He snarled, "You're not needed here" and then ignored the GDP officers. 

Worry shot through the Sentinel as he got his first good look at his Guide.  Blair was beyond hyper, pacing up and down the small office and gesturing with an old dagger that the detective mentally catalogued as one of the kid's artifacts.  Sandburg was yelling at the uniformed officer trying to talk him down.  Jim winced as he heard the terror in the kid's chanted, "Keep away...  just keep away from me.  Won't go.” 

It was obvious that the officer hadn't attempted to disarm the young Guide, just keep him in one place until his Sentinel arrived. 

Jim thankfully recognized Michael Lewis, an old-timer on the force who kept a cool head in any situation.  Lewis backed away from the office door and said, "We called it in as soon as I recognized him as your Guide, Jim.  We've got two other grad students, teaching assistants that have been drugged as well.  We're pretty sure someone spiked the coffee they were drinking; secretary says it came from the lounge.  The other two are unconscious but the same stuff has your Guide climbing the walls.  The GDP wanted to take him into custody but I figured it would be best if we waited for you.” 

"Thanks, Mike, you did good.  Whatever happens you let me deal with this.  Just keep those vultures off my back, understand?" A glare in the direction of the GDP officers identified the "vultures.” 

Lewis nodded, "It’s your call, Detective, just watch yourself.  He's pretty far gone.” 

Ellison went into the small office and closed the door behind him.  Sandburg backed away from him, into the far corner, holding the knife in front of him with both hands.  There was no recognition in the deep blue eyes that watched Jim's every move with suspicion and fear.  Ellison walked slowly toward his Guide, his voice a soothing murmur. 

"Blair, it's okay, kid.  I'm here.  I won't let anyone hurt you."  Jim reached for the knife. 

The knife slashed through the air.  Jim dodged back but not before the blade sliced through his upper arm.  The Sentinel bit down against the pain.  Blair was terrified.  He didn't need to hear Jim hurting.  Dialing down the pain, Ellison kept his voice soft. 

"Easy, Blair, no one’s going to touch you.” 

"I can feel them touching me.  Their hands all over me.  I can't go through it again, won't.  Sentinel...lost my Sentinel...  he didn't want me anymore and that's why I'm alone, all alone.  They'll take me back...  they'll...  not again, never again...”  Blair sounded totally lost.  Jim's heart ached at the despair in the shaking voice. 

Blair lowered the blade to his wrist and fear shot through the Sentinel. 

"Look at me, Blair.  Look at me!" The last three words were said with such force that their meaning penetrated the drugged confusion.  As blue eyes met blue eyes, hope dawned on the frightened face.  "Jim?"

"Yeah, Chief, it’s me, your Sentinel.  Listen, kid, you're my life, I need you, I can't lose you.  We can get through this together; you just have to trust me, Blair.”  He smiled at his Guide and then reached out again slowly.  His long fingers slid around the wrist of the knife-wielding hand while his other hand gently detached the blade from the tense grip.  Ellison dropped the knife on the floor and kicked it away.  The Sentinel opened his arms and his Guide scooted into them.  Jim lowered them both to the floor, sitting with Blair tucked under his arm. 

Blair clung to his Sentinel for dear life, his hands gripping the older man's jacket and shirt.  Jim's hands moved up and down his Guide's body trying to steady the uncontrollable trembling.  Blair was obviously disoriented, confused.  He was rambling on about losing Jim; that he couldn't find him; that he was alone.  He plastered himself against his Sentinel's body, his tears trickling down Jim's neck.  Jim whispered a litany of comfort into a curl-covered ear.  Slowly, the young Guide calmed.  Now that the arms of his Sentinel sheltered him, no one could hurt him ever again. 

As Blair settled against him, Jim carefully catalogued his Guide's vital signs.  Blair's eyes were dilated from the drug, his breathing erratic but the tremors were easing and the frantic pulse slowing.  A low voice spoke from the other side of the door, "Detective Ellison, is everything all right?"

"Yeah, Mike.  We've got it covered.  You can open the door now, but go slow.” 

The GDP officers came in.  The taller one said, "Good work, Sentinel, we can take him now.  He'll be...” 

"No!" The word was snarled.  Even drugged, Blair had recognized the GDP uniforms and his heart rate shot up again.  He started to struggle but Jim tightened his hold and turned his Guide's face into his chest. 

"Mike, get them out of here.  They are not helping.  Easy, Blair, I've got you, kid.  It's okay.  Everything's okay.” 

Lewis motioned the two men out of the room.  When they didn't move fast enough to suit him, he mentioned that he had his own set of restraints.  Mike grinned as they got the message and left hurriedly.  Sobering, he went into the office.  "Ambulance is here, Jim.” 

The paramedic was the same one who had attended Blair at the police station when the young Guide had gone into shock after Carolyn Plummer touched him when his barriers were gone. 

"Hey, Detective, how's he doing?"

"He's ingested something.”  The Sentinel looked down at the dark curls pressed against his chest.  The paramedic leaned forward, "Will you tell me his name this time, Detective?"

Jim flushed, he was well aware that he had not exactly been in control the last time they met.  Newly bonded, he had not wanted the medic to touch his Guide or even know his name.  "Blair Sandburg.” 

"Hey there, Blair.  I just want to check your pulse and blood pressure, and then we can get out of here.  Okay?"

Blair muttered something that only Jim could hear.  "He doesn't want to be touched; he thinks you're going to hurt him.” 

"Blair, I'm not going to hurt you.  May I make my check?" He put a hand out.  The empath made a frightened noise and tried to press deeper into his Sentinel. 

The paramedic nodded, "I'll take that as a no.  Can you tell me about his vital signs, Detective?"

Rafe stuck his head in the doorway and waited while Jim answered the paramedic.  As the medic spoke to the hospital, Jim went back to reassuring Blair he was safe, trying to calm his surging emotions through their link. 

"Blair," he spoke softly, "Your barriers, how are they?" Ellison had a pretty good idea of how they were from the way the young empath clung to him. 

Blair twisted Jim's shirt in his hand, "gone all gone all gone.”  The words were a mantra of pain and loss. 

"Easy, kid.”  Jim's voice broke across his whispered words.  "Just hang on, we'll take care of it.” 

Rafe approached carefully, all the signs said that Jim was in Blessed Protector overdrive, and only the Blessed Protectee could control him if he vented.  And the protectee was in no condition to stop him. 

"Jim?" Rafe said quietly. 

Ellison looked up and saw the younger GQ dressed cop. 

"Simon sent me, what do you need?"

"Get all the food and drinks on his desk bagged for forensics; I need to know what Blair's ingested.  And, for God's sake, keep those GDP goons away from him.” 

"What GDP?  They weren't called in on this, Jim.  Security only called dispatch.  We're handling this in house.” 

"They were here just now.  If they weren't called, what the hell were they doing here?  Something's not right here, Rafe.” 

Rafe's voice became very serious, "I'll look into it for you.” 

Jim got to his feet, taking the smaller man with him.  He could feel his Guide drawing on his strength but there was no way Ellison would block him.  In fact, he was pleased the kid had instinctively connected when he needed help.  "It's all right, buddy, I'll look after you," he reassured Blair yet again. 

The paramedic saw the blood on Ellison's arm but one look from the Sentinel stopped him before he could say anything.  Jim had dialed his pain down; the wound wasn't anything that couldn't wait until he knew his Guide was safe. 

The trip to the hospital was fast.  The entire time the Sentinel kept his Guide enfolded in his arms, talking softly, stroking and calming him. 

Once they were inside casualty and moved to an exam cubicle, the doctor came in.  He immediately saw the blood on Jim's coat.  "Nurse Thompson, get Orderly Benson and have the Guide moved to another cubicle.  I'll check him out after I've seen to the Sentinel.”  He dismissed Blair without another look.  While waiting for the orderly to arrive, the doctor glanced at his clipboard for a name.  "Sentinel Ellison, if you would...”  He moved closer to Ellison as he spoke.  Blair suddenly pulled free of Jim's hold and turned to face the doctor, putting himself between the doctor and the Sentinel.  When the doctor came forward, Blair violently pushed him away and pulled an instrument trolley in front of them.  Instruments crashed to the floor as he screamed, "Keep away from him.  He's my Sentinel; mine to protect.  MINE.”  Blair grabbed one of the scalpels from the trolley and slashed at the doctor, reinforcing his claim. 

Jim grabbed his Guide from behind and held on, trying to get him to calm down.  The doctor closed the distance and received a kick in the groin for his efforts.  The orderly rushed in but Jim roared at him to stand back as he twisted his Guide around.  He pushed the smaller man against the wall, pinning him there and the violent reaction ended as quickly as it started.  The scalpel fell to the floor as Blair raised a hand to his Sentinel's face just before his legs gave way.  Jim caught him before he hit the floor and settled his unconscious Guide on the gurney. 

The Sentinel paced up and down the waiting room with its yellowing paint and old magazines.  He had stayed with Blair until they had him settled with a physician who specialized in Sentinel/Guide medicine.  His own wound had been cleaned out and bandaged but he could not rest.  Finally, after a seeming eternity, the doctor came out, "Jim Ellison?"

"Yes,” Laser blue eyes demanded answers from the doctor. 

The doctor had dealt with Sentinels before and knew what was important, "He'll make a complete recovery, Sentinel.  He'll have a killer headache tomorrow and may feel like the living death, but he will be okay.” 

Jim felt the relief wash over him.  "What was the drug?"

"A particularly nasty designer drug.  We managed to flush it out of his system and he's resting.  We've got him sedated.  It looked as if his barriers were gone and we had to touch him to help him.” 

"I have to be with him.”  Ellison stated what to him was a self-evident fact of life.

The doctor smiled, "That's quite all right, Sentinel.  I've had a recliner moved in for you.  Now, don't get excited but we've got your Guide in restraints.  It's just until he wakes up and knows where he is and then they'll be removed.  It's for his protection, Detective.” 

Blair was sleeping when Jim came into his room.  He took a seat next to the bed and rested one hand on Blair's arm.  He sat unmoving as time passed slowly; the only sound the beeping of the monitors.  Jim was almost drifting off when Blair began to mumble, shifting uneasily against the pillows.  Ellison sat up and studied his Guide. 

Blair was dreaming and whatever his sleeping mind had conjured up was not nice.  Jim gently pushed against their connection, trying to ease Blair from his nightmare.  The younger man moaned softly, and then a pair of confused blue eyes opened. 

"Jim?" his voice was very rough.  Before Jim could answer, Blair began to struggle against the restraints as panic flooded their bond. 

"Easy, Buddy, you're safe.  I'm here.  The doctor will get them off, just hang on.”  Jim reached across the bed and pressed the call button.  He had been right to worry about what would have happened if his Guide woke up in restraints and alone.  It was why he had stayed in the less than comfortable chair the entire night; he could not do that to the kid. 

He gently brushed wayward curls back from the sweat stained face, smiling as his Guide turned into his touch.  Jim cradled the young empath's face in his big hands and said quietly, "You need to wake up now, Blair.” 

"'M 'wake.”  The words were slurred, the blue eyes struggling to stay open. 

"Yeah, buddy, you're awake.  Now let's try for aware, okay?" Jim talked softly until his Guide was finally with him. 

The doctor came in and smiled as he saw the patient awake.  "Hello, good to see you're back with us, can you tell me your name?"

"Blair Sandburg.” 

"The name of this gentleman here?"

"Detective James Ellison.  We're partners.”  Jim smiled at the touch of pride in his "partner's" voice. 

"Good, I'll just get these off you.”  The doctor worked quickly. 

"Jim, what happened?  How'd I get here?" Blair spoke over the doctor's head. 

"You were poisoned along with two other TAs.”  As Sandburg's eyes widened in concern, Ellison added quickly, "Everyone is going to be all right, Blair, and you just need to rest.” 

"Don't like hospitals.”  There was a definite plea for rescue in that short complaint. 

"Doctor, when can he get out of here?"

"Tomorrow morning.  I want to make sure that all the drug is out of his system.” 

"Jim, what happened to your arm?" Blair raised a hand to touch the bloodstained rent in Ellison's coat sleeve. 

"A little accident, Chief, nothing serious.” 

"What poison, Jim?  How'd it happen?"

"Not now, Chief.  It's all taken care of.  We'll talk later.  Now try to rest, I'll be here.  You're safe.” 

Only then did Blair close his eyes and let sleep claim him.

* * *

Simon came into the hospital room, wanting to speak to Jim and see how the kid was for himself.  He was not surprised when Jim nailed him with a frosty glare the moment he walked into the room. 

"Knock off the attitude, Ellison.  I'm not here to hurt Sandburg and you damn well know it.” 

"Sorry, Captain.”  Simon could almost see the Sentinel take a back seat to the detective.  But Jim's hand never left the kid's arm. 

Satisfied, Simon made himself comfortable.  "Okay, Jim, the drug was in the water filtering pitcher, so when the grad students made their coffee and tea they used the contaminated water.” 

"Do we know who it was aimed at?  Seems like a sloppy way to try to poison someone.  Anyone could have used that water.” 

Simon's face gave away the answer before he spoke.  "We think Blair was the target, Jim.  The drug just acts as a sedative on non-empaths.  On someone like Blair...well, it induces psychosis.  The docs are pretty impressed that you managed to talk him down and get the knife away from him.” 

"But why?  He can't have any enemies at Rainier.  He's just re-started.  Besides, the kid doesn't have a mean bone in his whole body.” 

"Rafe looked into the GDP officers that were at the crime scene.”  Banks paused; Ellison was not going to like the implications of his next words.  "Jim, he checked the GDP logs, no one was sent to Rainier University today.  Whoever they were, they were not GDP.  I spoke to Officer Lewis and he said they were already there, trying to get Blair when he arrived.  They only backed off when he and his partner got on their case.  Lewis said there was something about them he didn't like and decided to put in a call for you.  What do you remember about them, Jim?"

"I only saw them for a moment, didn't pay much attention to tell you the truth, Captain.  I was too concerned about Blair.” 

"You still remember it.”  The voice was shaky and without strength but it was the voice of a Guide. 

Jim got to his feet and smiled down at the younger man, "How're you feeling, Chief?"

"Sick and my head's splitting but...”  He paused to swallow, "We can do it, Jim, all you have to do is...”  He never got to finish his sentence. 

Jim cut across his words, "We'll do it tomorrow, Chief, when you're feeling better.  No, kid, listen to your Sentinel and try to sleep.”  Ellison gave him a warm smile.  Slender fingers reached out and curled around Jim's wrist, then pulled his hand against him.  "It’s alright, Blair, I'm not going anywhere.”  His Guide was already falling asleep again, secure in his Sentinel's protection. 

Simon watched as Jim resettled into the chair.  "Jim, one question, you can shut me up if you don't want to answer, but...”  "Spit it out, Simon.”  Jim's tone was friendly. 

"I know you.  You're not exactly a touchy feely person, yet you allow the kid to cling to you.  The way he runs his hands over your arms, it just doesn't seem natural.” 

Jim sighed and settled into a more comfortable position.  His Guide moaned softly and Ellison immediately reached out with his free hand and gently stroked the empath's face until the lines of tension smoothed out.  Blair pulled the hand he held captive tighter to him and slipped deeper into sleep. 

"That's just what I mean!  For God's sake, I would have been peeling him off the wall if he had done that to the old Jim Ellison.” 

Jim chuckled, recognizing himself in his captain's words.  "It's hard to explain, Simon, but the moment I came on-line and we bonded, I changed.  We changed.  I need his touch just as he needs contact with me.  He keeps me grounded; I can feel myself losing it, losing control, and his voice and touch give it back.  Simon, without Blair I would be dead.”  Jim said it with as much certainty as if it had been etched in stone. 

Simon was all too aware how frightening the loss of control was to a man like Jim Ellison.  The man had always been in control of his life and his destiny.  Then his senses had taken that control away from him and made him dependant on one hyperactive grad student for his very sanity.  Ellison's words and the emotion behind them worried him. 

"With Blair I feel balanced and in control.  Letting him connect with me is a small price to pay for that control.  When we bonded, it seriously affected his ability to create and maintain his empathic barriers.  My need for a Guide wounded him in a way that won't ever heal.  He needs me as much as I need him, Simon.  I can help him, protect him, and I WILL.”  The Sentinel switched tack suddenly; heart-to-hearts with anyone but Blair made him uncomfortable.  "So who the hell were those fake GDP officers?"

****

Blair came out of the bathroom where he had been changing into the clean clothes Jim had brought for him.  His head was still thumping and he could feel nausea wash through his body but he was determined to go home.  *HOME.* The loft was just that to him, now. 

Jim came in with two flat packs that he put in his jacket pocket.  Blair grimaced as he saw them.  "Jim, I don't like chemical drugs, I know where I can get some herbs that would...” 

"Forget it, Chief, the doctor says you take them, you take them.  There's painkiller for the headache and something for the nausea.  He said it would take 48 hours for the side effects to wear off and these will help.”  His voice dropped to a warning level, "and quit with the puppy dog eyes, Chief, it won't work.” 

Blair changed the subject, for now; he knew how stubborn his Sentinel could be, "How's the arm?"

"Fine, just a few stitches, that's all.”  He gently ruffled the long curls, careful not to aggravate the headache he saw in the younger man's eyes. 

"Jim, the doctor said...  he said I pulled a knife on you, on my Sentinel.”  Blair's self-loathing was all too evident to Ellison.  When would the kid stop blaming himself for every little mishap?  Ellison's anger at the GDP's treatment of his Guide surfaced and he unwittingly let it color the tone of his response. 

"Blair, you were drugged out of your mind.  You...”  Jim knew the instant the younger man dropped to his knees that Blair had misread his anger.  "DAMN IT TO HELL, SANDBURG.”  Jim exploded, sick to his soul that after everything they had been through his Guide was still haunted by his demons.  Jim closed his eyes and exhaled, forcing himself to keep calm.  He could not allow his emotions to take control, his Guide was ill and hurting and in no shape to handle them.  He was determined not to hurt him. 

"Guide, look up at me.  NOW.”  Jim allowed some of his anger to stay in his tone.  Blair slowly lifted his head, his eyes wary.  "God, Chief, I'm not about to punish you for something that was an accident.  You've got to understand that you were drugged and you reacted to a threat.  Hell, with the amount of crap you've had to deal with recently, I figure I got off easy.  Now, get up off that floor.”  Blair got to his feet but waved off Jim's helping hand. 

"I attacked my Sentinel.  I could have killed you.” 

"You also protected me, Chief, do you remember that?" His question was met with a small shake of a curly head. 

"You thought the doctor was going to hurt me.  You kicked him and then pulled a trolley in the way and grabbed a scalpel to protect me.  Blair, you were protecting your Sentinel.  I can't expect more of you than that.” 

"I kicked the doctor?" Disbelief was written on the expressive face. 

"You'll have to remember to apologize to Dr. Norton when we leave.” 

"Where?"

"Where what?"

"Where did I kick him?"

"In the examining room, Chief.”  Jim said it innocently and was rewarded with a whack to his uninjured arm. 

"Not that.  Where did I kick HIM?"

"Let's just say it might be putting a crimp in his love life for the next week or so.”  Jim grinned, that had effectively sidetracked his Guide's guilt trip. 

"I'm surprised I didn't wake up in a GDP cell.” 

"They would have had to go over my dead body to get to you, Blair.  Dr Norton understood.  He allowed me to get you settled, did the tests, and let me wait until the sedative kicked.”  Jim felt the need to add, "I only left while they did the tests, kid.” 

"Thanks, man.”  The feeling Blair put in that first word told it all. 

Jim tugged gently on a long curl, pleased that his Guide was going to be okay.  Blair saw his Sentinel's head tilt and knew he was listening to something.  Instinctively, he put his hand on Jim's arm to ground him. 

"DAMN GDP.”  The Sentinel turned, putting himself between the door and his Guide, hiding him from view. 

GDP officer Dan Slater knocked and came in slowly.  With a Sentinel in Blessed Protector mode, it was best not to take chances.  Alan Bieh had barged in on a Sentinel with an injured Guide and had been lucky to get away with just a broken arm, four broken ribs and a fractured jaw.  It had been a lesson Slater had taken to heart and he had read the history of this particular pairing. 

"Sentinel Ellison?" he made the name a question. 

"Yes.”  Ellison didn't care that his tone was icy.  His Guide was still ill from the after effects of the drug he had been given.  The doctor had told him it was one of a group of drugs used by the GDP for handling rogue Guides.  Sandburg had reacted badly to them.  He had added that Jim was not to worry; the young man would be fine.  But with his Guide sick and unknown GDP people seemingly involved, the Sentinel was walking a very thin line of tolerance. 

Blair spotted the uniform and dove back into the bathroom.  Jim turned and followed him.  He carefully held Blair's hair out of the way as he emptied his stomach of the small amount of food that he had managed to eat that morning.  With his other hand, he lightly rubbed his Guide's back, "Deep breaths, Chief, you're going to be alright.” 

"Sorry," Blair's voice was shaking slightly. 

"No need to be, Chief.  That drug was nasty stuff; you'll be feeling it for a while yet.” 

"Sentinel Ellison?" The voice was close to the door, "I am sorry to interrupt but you are to report to GDP Headquarters to see Consultant Doctor Speke.  You have a 10 o'clock appointment; I'm here to drive you to it.” 

Jim swore.  His whispered commentary was short, sharp, and very colorful.  The part of Blair's mind that wasn't quaking at the thought of GDP headquarters marveled at the physical impossibility of Jim's suggestion.  "If Dr Speke wants to see us, then she can come to the station.  And she had better not be late because I will be taking my Guide home.  Don't let the door hit you on your way out.”  He glared at the GDP officer before turning back to his Guide as he heard another bout of dry retching tear through an already sore throat. 

For a moment Dan Slater just stood there, working

through the possible responses he could make to Ellison's blunt statement.  He exhaled slowly; this case was going from bad to worse.  He had worked with his partner, Dr. Speke, on many cases and they had an enviable record of success.  But this Sentinel and Guide didn't know about their record and Slater doubted they would be impressed even if they did.  What counted now was that he had failed at the first hurdle with this pair. 

He decided the only thing he could do was back off for now.  The Sentinel was in Blessed Protector mode and whatever he said was going to piss the man off.  So he inched back slowly until he was out in the corridor; only then did he relax.  Slater took up watch in the corridor, keeping his distance from the Guide's room. 

When they finally emerged, the Sentinel's arm was around his Guide.  The younger man was enveloped in the larger man's coat.  He looked like a kid wearing his older brother's clothes; the coat much too large, only his fingers showing under the too long sleeves and the jacket covered him to mid-thigh.  Slater could see fine tremors shaking the compact body.  As he watched the careful way the Sentinel supported the other man, Slater revised his earlier impression—not someone's kid brother, Ellison's kid brother. 

Dan Slater decided to have one last go with the pairing.  "Sentinel, I mean your Guide no harm.  His barriers, are they low?"

For a moment, Jim just looked at him as if sizing up his threat to his Guide before he answered grudgingly, "They're down, and until the drug leaves his system he'll be wide open.  There is no way in hell I'm letting him set foot in GDP headquarters like that.” 

The GDP officer made sure the Sentinel could see him move even farther away, "I just wanted to make sure I maintained a proper distance.  I won't try and touch him, Sentinel.” 

"Do and I will kill you.”  The matter of fact words were clearly a statement of intent. 

          "Jim.”  Just one word from the Guide and the Sentinel's attention swung back to the younger man.  "He gets the message.”  Blair added to himself, he would have to be blind and deaf not to have gotten the message: "touch the Guide and die.”  Jim was at his most dangerous right now; his job was to defuse the situation.  He allowed Jim to fuss over him, to pull him into place at his side so that he was shielding him physically and mentally.  It was a quiet ride back to the precinct. 

          As they pulled into the garage, Ellison said, "Let's get this over with and go home, Chief.” 

          Sandburg nodded; he was not looking forward to spending time at the station with his barriers down.  But at least Jim's co-workers tried to understand, wouldn't willingly hurt him. 

* * *

Simon came into the bullpen just as Jim was about to take John Dawson's head off.  Dawson, new to Major Crime, was unused to the protocol that the rest of the department applied to this pairing.  Normally, it was all right to approach Blair and have a chat.  The grad student had proved to be more than willing to help out with the paperwork that accumulated on everyone's desks.  He was also the best person they had on computer; he could make that often frustrating machine do everything but tap dance.  All in all, Sandburg had carved out a niche for himself in the bullpen.  The wary caution with which Major Crime had treated him when he first appeared in the bullpen was easing into camaraderie.  But they also understood that if he was hurt or sick, then it was best to stay back.  If Sandburg had to be approached, they had learned to not make any sudden movements and to defer to the Sentinel in all things.  Dawson hadn't picked up on the rules of the Sandburg Zone and Ellison was providing painful remedial instruction. 

Jim had been called aside by Rhonda to deal with an expense report and Blair had seized the opportunity to get the prescription pills from Jim's coat pocket.  Blair figured that if he dumped them, the Sentinel would have to let him take his herbal remedies instead of the techno-crap the hospital passed out.  His fingers had just come up empty when someone grabbed him from behind.  The anger and disgust that flooded him at that touch froze him in his tracks.  He couldn't resist as he was thrown violently against the filing cabinets. 

          His Sentinel's roar brought him out of his daze and Blair turned to see Jim's hands locked around the new detective's throat.  The grad student plastered himself against the Sentinel's back and said harshly, "Sentinel, let him go.” 

          The pithy order was delivered in the command tone of a Guide and the Sentinel obeyed.  Jim tossed Sandburg's attacker aside and then turned to Blair.  Ellison's senses went on overdrive as he used them to thoroughly check out his Guide, hands ghosting lightly over the younger man's body. 

Rafe snagged Dawson's arm as the man tried to get on his feet.  He pushed him to the floor and hissed, "Stay down!" He added warningly, "Ellison rule number one DON'T TOUCH HIS PARTNER.” 

"That little freak is his partner?" Dawson snarled, "He's no better than the punks over at the University just begging to be put in their place.  He was going through coat pockets!  Should have hit him harder.”  Dawson had no idea he was flirting with death, hassling students at the University was one thing, messing with the Guide another. 

Jim turned on him with a growl.  Rafe jumped in front of him, "Easy, Jim.  The guy's a moron and you know Simon doesn't like you splattering them over the office walls.”  The young officer had been one of the first to actually understand the ins and outs of the Sentinel/Guide partnership and he was getting good at defusing situations when Ellison's Sentinel instincts got the better of him.  Rafe and his partner, Henri Brown, had appointed themselves unofficial bodyguards of the pair, watching their backs. 

"Ellison, collect your Guide and come into my office now.”  Simon barked the order and he expected to be obeyed.  For a moment Jim just glared at Dawson as if measuring him for a shroud.  Simon cleared his throat and Ellison threw him an apologetic look before tucking his Guide under his arm.  Shielding the younger man from the other detectives, Jim escorted him into the captain's office. 

Simon was shocked when he finally got a good look at Blair.  The kid was deathly white and literally shaking where he stood.  Jim got him seated on the sofa under the window and wrapped him in the coat Simon handed him.  Ellison took the tablets out of his pocket and read the instructions.  He popped two of the pills out and poured a glass of water from the jug by the coffee machine.  Handing the paper cup and the pills to his Guide, he ordered, "No argument on this, Chief, you take them.” 

The water slopped over the rim as Blair's hand trembled, "Jim.” 

"I said, no arguments, Chief.” 

With a grimace, Blair swallowed the pills.  Jim took a seat on the sofa that was really too big for the captain's office but just right for a sick Guide to rest on.  Simon watched with an expression of amused disbelief as Jim tugged his Guide so the younger man's head and shoulders rested in his lap.  Blair curled up with his back to Simon, one slim arm circled Jim's waist as he drew comfort from his Sentinel's nearness.  He was exhausted, still reeling from Dawson's attack and the drug assault that had landed him in the hospital.  Jim's reassuring presence and gentle voice was calming and he surrendered to the sleep that was tugging at him. 

The Sentinel monitored the younger man as he relaxed.  "Damn, Simon, he's running a temperature.”  Jim could feel the smaller body shivering as chills and fever fought it out, as muscles cramped from waves of nausea. 

"Look, Jim, we'll get this over as fast as we can and then you can take him home.” 

* * *

Dr Speke knocked on the door; she tried a smile to put everyone at ease as she came into the office.  It didn't work; Simon could see the Sentinel bristle the moment he saw her and his gaze swept past her to the man behind her. 

"Sentinel Ellison, I apologize for having to bring you in but it is rather important.”  Slater kept his eyes locked on the Sentinel's face. 

"Trying plain clothes this time, Officer?" he made the title an insult. 

The captain winced, when Jim Ellison spoke in that tone he was royally pissed and just waiting for a target to come into range. 

Dan Slater was experienced; he knew the Sentinel was watching him for any response, even just a change in his vital signs.  "I thought it might distress your Guide less this way.” 

Jim checked his heart beat and reluctantly realized that he was telling the truth. 

Simon said, "Doctor, Officer, let's sit down and discuss what you came here for.” 

Dr Speke settled in the chair that Simon had waved her to.  Slater smiled as he realized that the Major Crime captain had interposed his chair between his men and the GDP representatives. 

"So, what's so important?" Ellison demanded. 

"We have yet to receive confirmation that you are attending the Sentinel Conference.  As the only Dark Sentinel and as the Sentinel Prime of Cascade, you have to attend.  We are expecting around 30 Sentinels for the opening on Thursday.  Sentinel, you have to be there on Thursday.” 

"My Guide is ill, ask me again when he's feeling better,” Jim's tone was remarkably neutral. 

Dan Slater exhaled slowly in relief.  Maggie was playing it close to the chest here but from what he knew about this pair the truth would be more likely to get their help than all the lies.  A raised eyebrow asked Maggie a silent question and he got a nod in return.  Slater took up the conversation. 

"Okay, Sentinel, here's the story.  There have been four attacks on Guides at the GDP center.  All of them were bonded to Sentinels who were visiting.  Three of them were found unconscious.  They had been given a fancy cocktail of drugs and they had all been sexually assaulted.  When their Sentinels found them, they also found photographs of the Guides being "disciplined.”  Someone is getting off from hurting Guides.”  Slater let his anger show clearly. 

"Why wasn't this reported to us?" Simon cut in angrily.  Ellison smiled thinly.  Banks was always angry when his authority was undercut. 

"The GDP have been looking into it, Captain.”  Dr. Speke put in as if that made everything all right.  "And a fine job they have been doing, right?" Banks did sarcasm well.  Slater winced as the captain went on, "So, why come to us now?"

"Because of the conference," Jim answered smoothly.  "They're scared that one of the visiting Guides is going to be abducted and they don't want to have to admit that they never called in the police.” 

"Correct.”  keeping eye contact with the Sentinel Slater asked, "We believe the attack on your Guide might be connected.  Do you?"

"I'm a Sentinel, not a psychic.”  Jim growled.  His attention shifted to his Guide, "Sorry, Blair, didn't mean to wake you up.  Listen, kid, you don't want to have to deal with my emotions at the moment.  Why don't you disconnect?"

Jim's head tilted slightly as if he was listening to something.  He nodded, "Okay, but if you have to...  pull back.  Try and let the pills take effect.”  He waited a moment and only then turned back to the others. 

Dr Speke pulled herself together.  She had been looking at the darkly handsome Sentinel.  His gentleness with his Guide fascinated her and she had allowed her imagination to run wild.  Now she called herself to order and was all business again as Ellison spoke. 

"You mentioned four attacks and described three.  What about the fourth?" Jim asked. 

"The last attack, before your Guide was drugged, was on Lisa Pais' Guide.  She's out of the 23rd Precinct.  He was badly beaten, assaulted and his face slashed.  He was lucky he didn't lose an eye.  Lisa is with him now.  The degree of violence is escalating.” 

Simon nodded "So there's a possibility that whoever these people are, they could kill someone if they are not stopped.” 

"Yes.”  Slater put all his conviction in that one word. 

Jim checked on his Guide running a hand over his head and shoulders.  He knew that Blair was still awake but at least his heart rate had slowed and his body was more relaxed. 

"So, what's this got to do with us?" he asked.  Dr Speke felt herself pinned by the Sentinel's laser blue eyes. 

"We want you to take over the investigation.  You'll have full co-operation from the GDP.  Slater and I will be your liaisons with the department.  If we can tell the other Sentinels that the Sentinel Prime is on the case it will go along way to helping calm them down.” 

Jim said calmly, "Let me guess.  You want me to handle the Sentinel end" he glanced down and ran a gentling hand over his Guide "and Blair to keep a watch on the Guides.  Right?"

Speke and Slater nodded.  And wondered what was going on behind Ellison's stoic mask. 

"I'm taking Blair home, Simon.”  Jim stated it matter of fact, as if they had just been talking about the weather. 

"Sentinel," Speke started to protest," you have to listen...” 

Anger that his Guide had nearly been kidnapped by a gang that the GDP had not seen fit to warn the police about started to burn slowly through Ellison.  The thought that those same people now wanted his Guide to go where he would be a target, made it burst into flames and Jim exploded.  "No.  You listen to me, Doctor.  Leave now and you walk out.  Argue and you will be carried out.”  Jim's voice had changed, dropping to a low rumbling growl, and Speke realized she was looking at a dark Sentinel.  The cop was still there and that was possibly the only reason that they were still unhurt.  Ellison was holding the more feral part of his persona in check.  Even as she thought that, Ellison tilted his head to one side. 

He was listening to his Guide.  Hearing the voice, the one that anchored him, the one he had to obey, speaking to him, calming him.  Even though he himself was spooked, Blair was working to calm, center and focus his Sentinel.  Ellison altered his grip on his Guide, pulling him up so that his head was resting against the junction of his neck and shoulder.  Both Speke and Slater kept perfectly still as the Sentinel ran his hands over the man holding on to him.  He sent out his senses and closed his eyes as he wove a sensory net around them both.  He would know if Speke or Slater made a move towards them.  Now he could give over his full attention to his Guide. 

"Sentinel?" Maggie Speke spoke gently, this did not seem to be a bonding but her instincts told her that *something* was happening here.  She watched as the young Guide carefully eased back, his lips were moving but she heard nothing. 

"You think?  You got it, Chief.”  The Sentinel straightened up, taking his Guide with him, tucking him behind him, feeling one hand gripping the back of his shirt and the other moving over his forearm.  The weight of the curly head resting on his back told the Sentinel just how exhausted his Guide was. 

"He said, if you come around to the Loft late tomorrow and bring the files, we will listen to you.”  With that Ellison got his Guide onto his feet and out the door.  Simon grinned at the pole axed stares exchanged by the GDP officials as a Dark Sentinel deferred to his Guide.  Yep, hanging out with the Cascade PD might teach them a thing or two yet.  Simon thought smugly. 

* * *

Simon Banks pulled into the Loft's parking lot and looked at the other people in the car, Maggie Speke and Dan Slater.  "Before we go up there it is best you understand a few things about the Sentinel you want to separate from his Guide.  I know, I know, it's only for a few hours.  Still...  Jim was a loner when he came to me from Vice with one hell of a reputation for bad attitude.  Jack Pendergrass took him on and he changed for the better until Jack was killed.  I didn't think anyone could get through Jim's walls after that.  I was wrong.  This kid is making a difference in Jim's life and Jim is not going to lose him.  Anything, any person, Ellison sees as a threat to Sandburg he will remove.  Ellison's one of the most law abiding persons I know, but when it comes to his Guide...” 

"Where his Guide is concerned, he's different.  It's alright, Captain, it’s known as the Blessed Prot....”  Maggie Speke started to explain. 

Simon cut her off.  "I know what Blessed Protector mode is, Doctor, but I think it's beyond that.  And believe me; you don't want to be on the end of it.” 

He was not surprised when the door opened before he had a chance to knock.  He was surprised, and his face showed his shock, when he saw the Loft.  The last time he had been there the walls had been painted a stark white, all of the "touches" that had made it a home had gone with Carolyn when they divorced.  The whole place had been cold and clinical.  People like Speke would say it was the Sentinel unconsciously cutting down on stimuli, but Simon knew it was the man pulling back from the world. 

Now the Loft looked different, there was newly matted and framed pictures on the wall, aerial shots of some South American temples.  The coffee table was cluttered with several anthropology texts, exam booklets, binders and a pot of tea.  A laptop computer connected to a printer and a cell modem sat next to a mug of cooling tea.  Simon recognized the make of the laptop because Daryl had been ragging him about buying it for Christmas but it had been too expensive.  The whole package screamed top of the line and that told Simon a lot about Jim's concern for his Guide, that he would spend that kind of money for the kid's benefit.  Ellison's bookcases had always been half empty but now held a line of new books across the top shelf.  He wandered over and was not surprised to see the titles were more evidence that the kid was completely in Jim's life.  A faint scent of herbs and candle wax lingered in the air.  The place seemed more like a home than just a place to sleep and store clothes.  The door to the downstairs bedroom was open and a battered backpack sat just inside the room.  Simon jolted slightly as he suddenly saw Blair appear in the doorway; the kid gave him a small smile but didn't move into the main area. 

Jim closed the door behind them and then slowly circled them, assessing their threat risk.  He snarled and with one quick twist brought Dan Slater to his knees, his gun at the back of his head.  Simon yelled, "Jim.  NO.” 

"He's armed, Sir.  I can smell the gun oil.  Take the gun out with the tip of your fingers, put it on the floor, and then push it away from you.” 

Slater slanted a glance at Banks but the captain just shrugged and recommended, "Do it.” 

Dan shuddered and then slowly followed the orders; he should have left the gun at the station. 

"Jim, we're all on the same side here.”  The captain had the idea that the Sentinel was not listening to him. 

"The men who tried to take Blair at the University were GDP, so why should I trust him?" He watched the gun go sliding away. 

"Chief, get the gun.”  Only then did Blair join them.  "Okay on your feet now.” 

Slater got back up, "I am sorry, Sentinel, it was for our protection.  I meant no harm to your Guide.” 

Jim felt Blair connect to him, the younger man keeping him calm.  Only then did he holster his weapon and invite, or order, them to "take a seat.”  As Speke and Slater found seats on the sofa, Jim made sure his Guide was seated in the armchair and then perched on the arm next to him.  Simon just smiled as he lounged back in the other chair. 

Maggie settled herself and began her pitch.  "The Sentinel Conference starts on Thursday with an informal getting to know you gathering.  The Mayor and Governor will be there on Friday for the official opening.  Now the GDP will have a Guide suite for any Sentinels who want to place their Guides there for a short time but we have also arranged for the GDP to run a series of lectures at the Campus for the visiting Guides.  Sentinel Medicine, Control, protocol, it should be an interesting time for them.  All the Guides will be in attendance, that's why we need your Guide to be there.  He can keep an eye on them.  As an anthropologist, he's a trained observer and we hope he can spot any trouble in time to stop it.”  She trailed off as Sentinel and Guide communicated silently with a glance and two sets of blue eyes found their captain.  Simon shrugged and raised an eyebrow. 

Maggie found everything about this pairing interesting.  "If you'll allow me, I have the data here for you.”  She took the files out and offered them to Jim, who pointedly crossed his arms, "Its Sandburg's call, Doctor, he's the one you talk to.” 

Although she thought of herself as a liberal, and knew that many of her colleagues considered her and Slater too soft on the Guides, it was still a shock to be told to deal directly with a Guide and a rogue one at that. 

"He's going to decide?" She couldn't keep the disbelief from her voice. 

"If you want him to go into that place, you convince him.  He says NO and that's final.” 

"Er...  Guide Sandburg.”  The awkwardness in those two words showed how often she had actually spoken to a Guide and not over one.  She took a deep breath and started the briefing.  Jim, from his vantage point, read each file over Blair's shoulder and listened to the plan. 

"You see, Guide Sandburg, you would be able to detect any non-empaths, and should be able to see if anything is out of place.” 

Simon Banks had been a quiet spectator but his face had shown his every emotion as he realized just how much the GDP had hidden from the police.  He made a mental note to see the Commissioner; this secrecy had to stop now.  As he watched his detective struggle with the idea of putting his partner at risk and saw Sandburg rub a hand over weary eyes, he spoke. 

"Jim, we could put in a rookie.” 

"No, they would not be able to take part in the classes and that would tip off anyone watching.”  Sandburg eyes reflected his gratitude for the captain's concern but his face was determined as he said, "It has to be me.” 

Blair laid a hand Jim's hip, allowing himself to connect with his Sentinel.  He could feel the worry echoing through the man and, deep down, he knew it was not just the concern of a Sentinel for his Guide but of a man for his friend.  Warmth flooded him; an unlikely friendship was growing between the detective and the grad student. 

"Someone is attacking Guides, yet you didn't call the police.  I'll do it for the Guides; not to protect the GDP's reputation.” 

"Thank you, Guide Sandburg.  I know it's going to be difficult for you.”  Doctor Speke tried to not sound patronizing but the Sentinel's scowl told her she hadn't been very successful. 

"Lady, you don't know the half of it.”  Blair's voice carried a world of weariness.  Immediately, Jim stood up.  "We can finish this chat tomorrow.  I suggest you leave now.” 

Simon read the message in his detective's eyes and shepherded them out quickly.  Once the door was closed, Jim quickly went to his Guide and gathered him in, holding him close.  "Well, Chief?"

Blair exhaled softly, "Both of them were telling the truth about the case, they don't seem to have any hidden agenda.  They just want to catch the attackers.” 

"Feeling fried, Chief?" Ellison knew the answer to his question, read it in the minute shivers racking the man he supported. 

Jim felt the nod against his chest.  "Then we reaffirm the bond.”  He gently pulled his Guide down with him onto the sofa. 

The meeting had taken a toll on his Guide.  It had been the empath's idea to lower his barriers so that he could scan the people as they discussed the case.  Jim had been close so that he could reconnect when he needed to but he had gotten through most of the meeting without detecting any lies.  It appeared that Speke and Slater were being straight with them, so far; but Jim did not like what it cost Blair to get that knowledge. 

As Jim wrapped an arm around him and gently massaged his aching head, Blair allowed all conscious thought to leave him and reveled in the bonding, in the strength and power his Sentinel so freely offered to him. 

* * *

In Simon's office the next morning, Dr Speke put the bag down on the table.  She knew this was going to go down badly, the Guide looked better but he was still a little pale and Sentinel and police captain were hovering over him.  She pulled the overalls out of the bag and Blair shot to his feet.  "No.  NO way!  I am not wearing that again.  Jim, you promised!" he backed away from the cloth as if it was going to strike at him. 

The captain saw his detective's jaw grind.  "He doesn't wear that, Doctor.  You've read his record; he never should have been wearing it to begin with.  His entire time at the Institute was a gross miscarriage of what passes for even GDP justice.”  The words were ground out. 

"I have read his records, Sentinel, and anyone doing a check on him will have as well.  Miscarriage of justice or not those records state that Blair Sandburg is a rogue Guide and a killer.  He will be attending classes during the day without his Sentinel.  He needs to be easily spotted by the GDP; his tutors will have to be able to account for his presence.  If he turns up wearing just the ID badge like the other Guides they won't buy it.  Guide Sandburg," she decided to appeal straight to the young man, "I don't want to do this to you, but...”  She trailed off as remembered horror, fear, nausea and then determination flashed across the Guide's too expressive face. 

"If it's the only way they'll buy it, I'll wear them.  But not for a moment longer than I have to.”  He felt Jim's hand on his arm, the small squeeze his Sentinel gave him as he reached out for the overalls.  His hand was trembling as he pulled them to him and took a seat. 

Jim looked at him with concern.  His Guide seemed lost in thought, his slender fingers playing with the coarse material.  He could detect the small tremors running through the slim body.  All the crap the kid had put up with in his short life and he was still willing to try and help other people, a wave of pride in his Guide went through him. 

Jim leaned in to his Guide.  "When this is over we burn the thing, okay, Blair?  Just like we did the others, then that's it, Chief, once and for all.  You hear me, Doctor?  He does this and he never...  never wears them again *and* his GDP records are turned over to Captain Banks and sealed.  That's the price you pay for our cooperation.” 

"Okay.  I'll see that it's done once this is all over with.” 

* * *

Blair sat in the truck and stared at the main GDP building.  Students were moving towards the campus buildings to start their training; on the whole, they looked happy and relaxed.  Jim studied his Guide, he looked no different from the other Guides but he could feel tension and unease running through their connection.  He had insisted that Blair remain connected to him for as long as possible.  His Guide was spooked and very skittish at the moment and he needed all the help he could get.  He kept glancing down at the red and black overalls he was wearing.  Jim couldn't begin to imagine the nightmares that were running around his head.  After this was over, the GDP was going to owe them big time and he was going to make sure they paid. 

The other Sentinels and Guides were on the steps of the GDP building.  It reminded Jim of the first day at school, the parents reluctant to part with their children.  All the Sentinels were fussing over their Guides, petting and calming them and then watching almost fretfully as the GDP officers came and collected them for their first lesson.  Now it was their turn, he had been told that he had to bring Blair after the rest had gone in because of his rogue status.  Jim had firmly told the officer in short sharp phrases just where he could put the restraints when it was suggested that he put Blair on the leash.  The kid had enough crap to handle without adding to it.  Sandburg actually grinned at the mental image Jim's suggestion painted but he still flinched when a gentle hand landed on his shoulder.  He apologized when he recognized his Sentinel's touch, "Sorry, Jim.” 

"Its okay, Chief.  I'm not happy with this either.  We go in there, catch the bad guys and then you get to pick where we go on vacation.” 

"You mean that?" Blair sounded excited. 

"Sure, Chief, got a place in mind?"

"Yes!" then Blair halted.  "Out with it.  Where are we going?"

"The archaeological department at Rainier has a dig going on at Croxley Meadows, a couple hundred miles upstate.  I was asked if I could go for two weeks, they think it’s got Sentinel connections.  I...  I mean would you...  I don't...” 

"Chief," Jim smiled, "you have to learn to complete these sentences if you want me to understand you.  But yeah, we can go as long as you show me what to do.” 

"You mean it?" Jim's grin got bigger as Blair's excitement bubbled up again, for a moment he had forgotten overalls and conferences.  "Cool!" Then he took a steadying, deep breath.  "We do this now, Jim.” 

"Sure.  Now remember, if you need me, you tell the instructor and he will contact me right away.  Believe me, Chief, I made them realize that I wanted to know right away.” 

"Thanks, man.”  Deep blue eyes locked on the Sentinel's face as Blair drew strength from the promises he read there. 

"Any time, partner.  Listen, kid, I want you to think of this as a play.  You've got the starring role.  It isn't Blair Sandburg, Guide that's kneeling to these jerks; it's Blair Sandburg, grad student, doctoral candidate and actor playing a role.  Got it?"

"I can do that, Jim.” 

"I know you can, Chief.” 

The two men walked up the steps.  As a GDP officer approached them, Blair whispered, "Um, Jim?  Do I get roses if I get a standing ovation?"

Jim swatted the back of his head, glad to see that the kid could still joke.  Then Blair took up his normal position slightly behind his Sentinel's shoulder as they entered the admin block.  The receptionist put a call through and GDP Officer Morris Philips met them.  Immediately, Blair went down on his knees, hands behind his back, head down, his shoulder resting against the back of Jim's leg, the classic position of a working Guide. 

"Sentinel Ellison, so this is your Guide?  Huh, I have read his record and he has quite a history with us.  I have informed his instructors and they will be keeping a watch on him in your absence.” 

"I'd appreciate it.”  Jim sounded pleasant but Blair could feel the loathing for the man radiating from his Sentinel. 

"I'll take you to your first class of the day, Sentinel.”  Ellison glanced over his shoulder as another guard came over.  The man was as tall as Jim and just as powerfully built and wore the uniform of the Institute.  Instinctively, he moved in front of his Guide.  The big guard stopped his voice pleasant as he said, "It’s alright, Sentinel.  I'm just going to take Guide Sandburg to his first class.”  He handed Jim a slip of paper.  "this is the time table he will be following.”  Philips' scowl led Jim to believe that giving him Sandburg's schedule was not part of the program.  Jim's senses swept over the guard but he could not detect any animosity in him.  He slowly stepped to one side and the big man loomed over the bonded Guide. 

"Guide Sandburg, look up.” 

Blair followed the command.  "His barriers, Sentinel...  what's their status?"

"They are stable, Guard," Gibb heard the forced calm in the Sentinel's voice. 

The guard reached down, took Sandburg's arm and pulled him to his feet.  His grip was firm but gentle, he was actually being very careful with the Guide.  Like a lot of big men he was careful with the amount of strength he used on the much smaller man.  But it still tore at Jim when Blair was led away. 

"My name is Guard Gibb.  I'm sure we are going to get along, Guide Sandburg.”  The big man suddenly felt the Guide's body tense up and he mentally swore.  He had been sickened by what Senior Guard Wilson and his cronies had done to the small Guide.  As far as he could see the only thing rogue about Blair Sandburg was the natural desire to stay alive and not get beaten up at the whim of a Sentinel.  Gibb knew that Doctor Speke had personally assigned him to Sandburg.  He was all too aware that his gentler approach to Guides was the reason he was at the Institute and not at the correction facility or on the street.  He pulled his charge to a halt, "No one is going to hurt you, Guide Sandburg.  You're perfectly safe here.  I'm going to be your shadow for the first few days.  That's all I meant, nothing more.  Okay?"

Blue eyes fastened on his, wariness in their depths.  Gibb said quietly, "You may read me, Guide Sandburg, if it would ease your mind.”  Surprise and gratitude radiated from the young empath in a way Gibb had never experienced.  "That won't be necessary, Guard.  Thank you.”  The voice was low and musical, sure to be soothing to a Sentinel's ear. 

Gregory Gibb knocked on the door of the classroom and entered.  The GDP Instructor stopped in mid-sentence.  Blair went down on his knees at the side of the guard as the big man spoke briefly to the instructor and then, with a small pat to Blair's shoulder, left. 

He was all too aware of the other Guides staring at him, the clothes he wore marking him as a rogue and correction facility fodder.  The instructor ordered harshly, "Look up, Guide.” 

Blair obeyed.  "You will obey all commands Guide.  It's good to see that your Sentin