New
Arrivals
Author-Suzie
Titles
Home Coming
by Suzie
Summary: #12 of the Wanted series.
Disclaimer: Some of the characters in this story belong to the Pet Fly Productions as part of the television show The Sentinel. I do not claim these characters as my own.
This story has NOT been betaed!
"Reconciliation should be accompanied by justice, otherwise
it will not last. While we all hope for peace it shouldn't be peace at
any cost, but peace based on principle, on justice."
--Corazón Cojuangco Aquino, President of the Philippines
It was midnight when Jim and Blair shuffled stiffly off of the plane at SeaTac Airport. Rumpled, and exhausted after their long flight, Jim was trying to think of a place to stay, how they were going to get there, and what they were going to do with Wolf, when he ran straight into Blair's back.
"Hey... what the..." Jim said, catching his partner before he fell.
"JIM! BLAIR!" Simon called, grinning broadly as hurried to meet them.
"It's Simon, Jim," Blair said, blinking tired eyes as if he couldn't believe what he saw.
Jim looked up and a grin spread across his face. "It sure as hell is."
With an arm around Blair's shoulders, Jim propelled them both forward to meet their friend.
"Simon!" Blair said, throwing his arms around the tall black man. "It's so great to see you man!"
Jim didn't wait and encircled both men in a bear hug with Blair in the middle. "You're a sight for sore eyes, Simon."
When the three finally broke apart, Blair said, "Not that I'm not glad to see you... but what are you doing here?"
"Well, Mr. Ellison was going to pick you up, but he and Sally have been so busy getting your rooms ready that I volunteered."
"Our rooms?" Jim questioned. "I'm not sure staying with Dad is the safest thing to do right now. I asked him to make some calls for me..."
Simon raised a hand, "I know, your Father told me... and I did mention that it may not be the best place for you two at the moment, but he insisted."
Jim nodded, "That sounds like Dad." He cocked his head slightly and said, "We'd better go get Wolf. He's beginning to howl his displeasure at being in that kennel."
Blair gave a look of concern and hurried off, with Jim and Simon following close behind.
Simon's eyebrows rose dramatically when he noticed Blair's waist length ponytail. Silently he pointed and looked and Jim, who simply smiled and shrugged.
**********
Simon pulled up in front of the Ellison house. "Good to be home?" he asked quietly.
Jim smiled. "Yeah... it really is." He turned in the seat, reaching into the back, and gently shook Blair awake. "Hey, buddy, we're home."
Blair's eyes blinked open and he sat up. "Oh, man... guess I dozed off."
Wolf shifted his big head off of Blair's lap and yawned.
"I guess you did," Jim said, his eyes twinkling. "Let's get our stuff and go on in."
"You go on ahead," Simon said. "I'll grab your gear and be right in."
"Simon..."
"I mean it now. Go on..." Simon made a shooing motion with his right hand. "Your Dad and Sally are waiting."
Jim just smiled and got out of the car.
Blair got out of the backseat with Wolf hoping down beside him. "Jim, do you want to go in alone?"
"Alone? Why would I want to do that?"
"Well, this is your family, man. I just thought..."
"You thought wrong, Chief," Jim said sternly, turning to face his Guide. "You're as much a part of my family as Dad, Stephen, and Sally are."
"He's right, Blair," William Ellison said from the end of the walkway. "I'm not just welcoming Jim home... I'm welcoming family home."
**********
Wolf was in the kitchen with Sally, laying under the table as she moved about the room. He took an instant liking to the small Asian woman... especially when she sat a large bowl of meat scraps she'd been saving down in front of him.
"Now, you stay here and eat while I take this tray out to the men," Sally said to the big animal. "I will be right back." Then left the kitchen with the tray, humming happily as she went into the living room and handed a mug of cocoa to Blair.
"Wow, real hot cocoa, Jim." Blair grinned, taking the mug from Sally. "Not the powdered stuff." He inhaling the steam floating up from the mug he held and sighed. "Nothing smells like the real thing. Thanks, Sally."
"I thought the warm milk would help to relax you after that long flight. I remember how much Jimmy always liked hot cocoa," Sally said with a soft smile.
"This is great, Sally," Jim said. "Thank you." He took a sip of the hot liquid and savored the taste of the rich milk and chocolate as it flowed over his tongue.
"No one can appreciate taste the way Jim can," Blair said, smiling broadly at the look on his Sentinel's face.
Jim was in heaven.
"Oh, Captain Banks brought your bags in. He asked me to tell you that he would 'see you later'," Sally mentioned before she took her leave to go back to the kitchen.
"Thank you, Sally," Mr. Ellison smiled.
"Huh? Why did he leave?" Blair asked, a frown creasing his face. "He should of come in."
"Probably because it's after 2am," Jim replied, taking a sip of cocoa. "And he does have to be at the station in the morning."
Blair relaxed and settled back into the chair. "Oh... okay."
"I made the calls you asked me to make, Jimmy," Mr. Ellison said.
"And?" Jim asked between sips.
"I spoke to several people at the Department of Defense and got the run around..."
"Big surprise there," Blair said.
"...until I mentioned Agent Sands' name. They were a bit more interested in my inquiries at that point and transferred me to a Dr. Lawrence Nolan."
Jim grunted.
"Apparently he's the one in charge of their 'Sentinel Project'."
"*THEIR* Sentinel Project!" Blair spluttered angrily. "What right..."
"Settle down, Chief," Jim said in a calm tone. "Let's just find out what's going on."
"The project was suspended after you and Blair left the country." Mr. Ellison continued, "Dr. Nolan told me that Agent Sands has gone AWOL and there was an ongoing investigation into his disappearance."
"The project was suspended?" Blair said doubtfully. "You mean we're safe? They aren't after us any more?"
"Not exactly, Blair," Mr. Ellison said. "They still want to continue the project with both you and Jim. Dr. Nolan asked if you would meet with him and his team in Washington D.C."
"No way, man! There's no way I'll let *anyone* make Jim a guinea pig!"
"Blair..." Jim began.
"No, Jim!" Blair said adamantly, standing to pace the room. "What I did to you in the name of research was bad enough! I don't even want to *think* about what the government would want to do!"
Jim stood, setting his mug aside, and caught his agitated friend as he passed. Turning the younger man to face him, he said, "Blair, no one is going to go anywhere and I don't intend to become a government guinea pig." Sentinel senses monitored his Guide's rising vital signs.
Blair shook his head, sending loose curls flying. His breathing was picking up, as was his heart rate.
"Calm down, Chief," Jim soothed, rubbing Blair's shoulder. "You're over tired and not thinking clearly right now. You need to shut off your brain and get some down time." He gently pushed his friend down into the chair he'd vacated. "Sit."
Blair took a deep breath and shook his head. "I'll be okay."
"I know you will. You haven't slept much since we decided to come back, and you didn't get much sleep on the plane either." Jim smiled and said, "I could dial down the screaming baby... you couldn't."
Jim's tone relaxed the younger man and Blair looked up at Jim through half closed eyes. "I guess I am a little tired," He admitted.
"We set up Stephen's room for Blair," Mr. Ellison said quietly. "You're in your old room."
"Thanks, dad," Jim smiled. "I'll just get him settled and be back down."
Mr. Ellison stood as Jim pulled Blair to his feet. "No, you go on to bed, Jimmy. We'll talk after you've both rested."
Blair leaned against Jim's side, letting his friend slide an arm around his shoulders. "What did you tell that doctor in Washington D.C.?"
"I told him that *if* the two of you agreed to a meeting, it would not take place in Washington D.C., it would take place where you and Jim choose it to be. He seemed satisfied with that and left a phone number and asked that you call him."
Blair nodded, satisfied with the answer. "Thank you."
Jim guided Blair up the stairs and to the room that Stephen occupied when he was a kid. A new bed sat against the wall and the room smelled fresh and clean.
Blair sat heavily on the bed and sighed. "Sorry about making a scene down there."
"Don't worry about it. Just get some sleep." Jim walked across the room and opened a door, revealing the bathroom. "We're sharing the bathroom."
"So, you'll be just next door?"
Jim nodded and pointed at another door on the other side of the bathroom. "Just on the other side of that door."
Blair nodded.
"You okay, Chief?" Jim asked, watching the emotions play across his friend's face.
"Yeah... just tired." Blair sighed again. "It's been a long time since I've slept in a room... alone."
"Yeah, I know. Seems a little odd in a way."
"Do you think we could leave the doors open? Just for a night or two?"
Jim smiled at his partner, "Sure, I think that would be a good idea. We both need time to adjust."
"What about Wolf?" Blair asked, reaching down to untie his shoes.
"Don't worry about him. Sally will make sure he gets up here. Now get some sleep. I'll see you in the morning," Jim replied, turning to step through the bathroom to his own bedroom. "Sleep well, Chief."
"G'night, Jim."
**********
A soft bed and warm blankets made for a blissful night for the two exhausted men. Jim only got up once, just before daylight, to check on Blair, but found him sleeping peacefully with Wolf on the floor next to the bed. There was a large cedar stuffed cushion on the floor that Wolf was laying on. The faint aroma of cedar waft through the room and Jim smiled.
Sally, you think of everything, Jim thought with a smile, then tiptoed back to bed without waking either man or beast.
The remainder of the night passed quietly and after a good night's sleep, Jim awoke feeling well rested. After a shower, shave, he dressed in the only other set of clothes he owned and took Wolf downstairs with him to let him out the back door into the big yard.
"Good morning, Sally," Jim said, giving the housekeeper a light peck on the cheek. He went to the door and opened it, letting Wolf scoot happily outside.
"Good morning, Jimmy," Sally replied with a happy smile. "You slept well?"
"Very well, thank you," Jim said, sitting at the kitchen table.
Sally set a mug of steaming coffee down in front of Jim. "Is Blair up yet?"
"Not yet. I thought he could use a bit more sleep."
"Can I fix you something to eat?"
"That would be great, Sally."
After a home cooked breakfast, Jim was well sated and ready to get on with the day. He entered the bedroom quietly. Smiling at the covered lump snoring softly in the bed, he went to the window and opened the shade, letting the sunlight in. "Hey, sleepy head," Jim said, sitting on the edge of the bed and setting a mug on the bedside table. "Are you getting up sometime today?" He gently shook the lump until he detected movement.
"timzit?" came a muffled, sleepy voice from somewhere inside the mound of blankets.
"It's 11:15... in the morning," Jim grinned.
Slowly the mound shifted and Blair pulled down the blankets and squinted up at the cheery face staring back. He glared up at the cheery face. "Bright."
"The sun will do that."
Blair inhaled and his eyes focused slightly. "Coffee?"
Jim retrieved the mug and handed it to Blair, who was slowly rising to sit up. "It's Sally's special coffee."
Pushing tousled, bed tangled hair out of his face, Blair took the mug and sipped the hot liquid gratefully. "Special?"
"Yeah... neither one of us made it and it's not made from plants."
That brought a smile out of the still waking Guide. "So what's on the agenda today?" Blair asked, graduating to multiple word sentences.
Jim stood and headed for the door. "First, get showered and dressed. Then breakfast."
**********
It was just after lunchtime when the threesome walked through the lobby of the Cascade PD building.
"Hey, Detective!" Bradley called from his post at the front desk. "Hi, Blair! Long time no see!"
Both men smiled and waved as they passed. Heads turned and the crowd parted as they and their large furry companion moved towards the elevators. There were at least a dozen people waiting, but Jim, Blair, and wolf entered the car alone... and it stayed that way, even though they stopped twice on the way up, until the exited the elevator on the seventh floor.
The bullpen was quiet when Jim and Blair walked in. Wolf trotted along beside Blair, head held high to show off the bright red collar with the metal license tag tinkling from the loop. A gift from the nice lady the humans called Sally.
Rafe and Henri sat at their respective desks, heads down as they worked. Megan was no where in sight and Simon was in his office on the phone.
"I'll be right with you," Henri said quickly without looking up.
"Gee, maybe we should have called ahead," Blair said with a grin.
"Yeah," Jim nodded. "Hey how about a little service here?!"
"I said..." Henri looked up, a perturbed look on his face. Then he blinked and shook his head as he his jaw dropped. "Oh my God. Rafe... it's... it's..."
Jim and Blair waggled their fingers simultaneously, flashing nearly identical grins.
Rafe looked at his partner. "What's the matter with you?"
Henri stood, waving in Jim and Blair's direction. "It's Ellison and Sandburg!"
Rafe whirled around in his chair and looked up at his long lost friends. "Oh my God!"
"Jim! Blair!" Megan called as she walked into the bullpen. She hurried to them and hugged each. "It's so good to see you home." Kneeling, she scratched Wolf's head, "And it's good to see you again too."
Wolf whined and woofed happily under the attention.
Rafe and Henri snapped out of their shock and rushed over to their two friends.
Henri pulled Blair into a bear hug, then backed off slightly and brought Blair's long ponytail over one shoulder. "What the hell is this?" Henri laughed mischievously. "Hairboy returns!"
Blair blushed and smiled good naturedly, snatching his ponytail away and tossing it behind him. "I told you I was going to grow it back after the academy."
"You two are looking pretty damn good," Rafe commented. "Jungle life suited you both I'd say."
"Yeah it did," Jim sighed. "But it was time to come home."
"All right, people!" Captain Banks bellowed from the door of his office. "Why don't I see anyone working out here?!"
"It's Jim and Blair, sir," Rafe said, grinning from ear to ear and gesturing towards his two friends.
"I can see that," Simon said, trying hard to hide a smile. "Now everyone get back to work." He ushered Jim, Blair, and Wolf into his office. "You can work on the welcome later." Simon closed the door and walked around his desk to sit down. "Well, you're both looking good. How are you feeling?"
"A little jet lagged, but not too bad," Jim said.
Simon unlocked a drawer of his desk and brought out a manila envelope. "Here's your bank account information. As soon as you're ready, we'll go to the bank and get the names changed. The keys to the storage unit where I packed away some of your things, and an inventory list of everything that was in your safe deposit boxes are in there too. Your lawyer, Carl Dever, has everything from your safe deposit box locked in his personal safe."
"Thanks, Simon. We really appreciate everything you've done."
Simon waved the thanks aside. "I'm just glad you're both back and in one piece."
"I thought we agreed to sell everything or give it to Good Will?" Jim asked.
"There were things that I thought you both might like to hang on to. It was easier to get the storage unit then to trip over the boxes in my house. Packed some of your clothes away too. Thought you might need them when you came home."
**********
Jim unlocked the storage unit and walked in with Blair on his heels.
"Will you *look* at this!" Blair said excitedly. "There's boxes marked 'Artifacts'... and here's one marked 'Books'. Wonder which ones got packed?" He reached to open the box.
"Not now, Chief, okay?" Jim said, smiling sympathetically at his partner's exuberant curiosity. "We really don't have time to look through every box right now. Too many things to do."
Blair sighed and backed away from the box. "Yeah, you're right."
"We need to find the boxes marked 'Clothes'," Jim said. "Simon said there were two."
Silently they moved boxes until they found what they were looking for.
"Here they are, Jim," Blair called triumphantly.
Jim joined his friend and they each took a box, locking the door as they left. "At least we'll have more than two sets of clothes to wear now."
**********
Blair knocked lightly on the office door and waited.
"Come in," a voice said from inside.
Opening the door a bit, Blair poked his head in. "Hey, Jack... you busy?"
A smile appeared instantly on Jack Kelso's face. "Blair! For crying out loud... get in here!" He easily maneuvered his wheelchair from around his desk and rolled toward the door.
Jim followed Blair into the office.
"Jim! It's so good to see you again." Jack first shook Blair's hand, then Jim's. "You're both looking well. When did you get in?"
"Yesterday... well, late last night," Blair answered.
"More like early this morning," Jim corrected.
Jack chuckled and shook his head. "Is this a social call or are you two here on a mission?" he asked, wheeling himself behind the desk.
"Um... a little of both I guess," Blair replied. "We wanted to let you know that we were here... alive and well..."
"Do you know anything about what's going on?" Jim interrupted bluntly.
"I did find out that there was a project on Sentinel's going on headed by Dr. Lawrence Nolan," Jack said.
"The project is classified, but I have found out that the government is searching for Sentinels... with and without Guides. It's thought that the Defense Department is looking to start a special unit made up of people with enhanced senses."
Blair dropped into the nearest chair. "Oh my God," he whispered.
"Have they found any?" Jim asked.
Jack shrugged. "Rumor is that they apparently have a few people that *appear* to have some enhanced senses... none with the whole gamut like you." He looked at Blair. "None with Guides. No understanding of what to do or how to teach the people they have to use their abilities."
Jim groaned and scrubbed his hands over his face as he realized what the conversation was leading to. "They want me... us," he said, indicating Blair and himself. "To train their squadron of Sentinels."
"Are they *crazy*!" Blair blurted angrily. "We're not at war! They can't just *draft* these people like this!"
"No one has been drafted, Blair," Jack said calmly. "The government offered them contracts. They'll be on a payroll... with benefits. They were given the whole recruiting speech."
"They don't seem to be willing to give us that same consideration," Jim said.
"They *need* you two. This project isn't going to get off the ground without you. The government wasn't planning on you turning them down and will do just about anything to bring you into this project."
"Including kidnapping!?" Blair said angrily.
"If that's what it takes," Jack said disdainfully. "They are assuming that once they have you, they can talk you into staying and helping them." He looked from Blair to Jim. "Does the government know you're back yet?"
Jim shook his head. "I doubt it. My father talked to Dr. Nolan who left his number and wants us to call."
"Are you going to call?"
"Yes," Jim said.
"NO!" Blair said loudly, coming to his feet. "You can not be serious!"
"We have to settle this thing, Chief."
"Settle what?! Why do they even need to know we're here?"
"I would be willing to bet that the government will know before tomorrow that you're here, Blair," Jack said.
"Do you want to be on the run for the rest of your life?" Jim said.
"No... but, Jim..." Blair tried.
"Listen, Chief, the sooner we do this the sooner we'll be free of them."
"Do you really believe that?! I mean... Jack says they'll do anything to get us. How do we know they won't go back on any promises they might make?! I don't us to become prisoners, Jim... and I sure as hell don't want you to become some lab rat!"
"Calm down! No one is going to become a 'lab rat'!"
"I wouldn't be too sure of that, Jim," Jack said grimly.
Jim and Blair turned to star at Jack.
"The Defense Department is planning to run tests on your senses," Jack explained. "They want to know what makes a Sentinel tick before they turn you lose to train *their* squadron."
Blair rolled his eyes in disgust and threw his hands up. "I *knew* it!"
"You mean they want to figure out a way to control me," Jim said.
Jack simply nodded.
"Jim, we *can not* make that call, man! Please!" Blair pleaded.
Jim leaned forward on the desk, resting his weight on his arms. " If we don't call, they'll hound us forever... or we go back to Peru forever. I don't see too many options here."
"Cut a deal," Jack said matter-of-factly.
"WHAT?!" Blair blurted. "I can't believe you're saying this!"
Jack held up a hand to silence Blair's outburst. "My contact thinks you can negotiate with them... to a point."
"Negotiate?" Jim frowned, considering the possibility.
"If they are as desperate to get you into this project as it appears, you should be able to call the shots to a degree. You won't get completely out of it, but make up a contract. Do a little give and take."
Jim was nodding.
"Don't do this, Jim," Blair said quietly. "I'd rather go back to the jungle."
Jim sighed and hung his head for a moment. Then straightened and turned to face his Guide. "Blair... do you remember what I was like when you found me?" Jim asked.
Blair blinked, thrown off guard slightly at the question. "Yeah... you were..." He hesitated, his mind working quickly for the proper words. "You didn't understand what was happening. You were out of control. Your senses..."
"I was afraid that I was going insane."
Blair swallowed, his eyes filled with compassion as his met his Sentinel's.
"If the government has people with enhanced senses, they may need help... to understand."
"Like you needed help," Blair said softly.
Jim nodded.
Blair thought for moment, then argued, "But Jack says that they don't have anyone with all five heightened senses like you. Only having one or two isn't hard to control. Technically the person could go their whole lives and not even realize they have any enhanced senses."
"Be that has it may," Jim stated calmly. "If you were one of the people they've found with *any* kind of enhanced senses, wouldn't you want to be trained by experts? It's obvious that Dr. Nolan and his people don't have a clue as to how to deal with this."
Blair frowned.
"These people that the government has found have committed themselves to a service, Chief. I for one wouldn't want to be out in the field somewhere and not know how to control things in a tense situation."
"And if the government can't figure out how to deal with and train these people to use their senses..." Jack mused. "It could lead to brainwashing techniques..."
"Oh God!" Blair said, turning away from both men. "I can not believe this is happening!"
"Blair, listen," Jim said. "If we work out a deal, it would have to be under *our* terms more then theirs. It would have to be in writing and signed by us, the Defense Department, Dr. Nolan or whoever is head of the project."
"And I'll sign it as a witness," Jack interjected.
Blair turned back and stared at Jim through worried eyes.
"Please, Chief," Jim said, pleading sounded in his voice. "I can't just ignore without at least trying to do something. Not knowing there are people facing the same problems as I've had."
Blair nodded slightly, showing his understanding. "But, Jim... what if we *can't* deal with the government? What if they..."
"We'll go back to Peru," Jim interrupted. "We'll live with the Chopec. No one will be able to find us there."
"Sands found us there," Blair growled.
Jim shook his head. "No, Chief, the Chepec found him. Chances are Sands would never have located us on his own... even if he'd been healthy. If he'd found the village, the tribe would have protected us."
"Sands? Would that be agent Sands?" Jack asked curiously. "My contact says he's been missing for some time now."
Jim nodded. "He's dead."
"Well, that explains that."
Blair sighed and turned towards the only window in the office. His instincts to protect his Sentinel, self-preservation, and his desire to agree with Jim warred in his mind.
Finally, Jim stepped up behind the smaller man and placed his large hands on Blair's shoulders. "I'm going to leave this up to you, Blair. This is your decision. If you say no, then we won't make the call and we're out of here as soon as we can book the flight."
**********
The following day, Blair stayed in his room all morning thinking about the conversation he and Jim had with Jack Kelso. He didn't hear the phone ring downstairs... or if he did, it didn't register.
Sally stood at the bottom of the stairs and called, "Blair! Are you up there?"
Blair stepped out of his room and looked over the railing. "Right here."
Sally held up the phone's receiver and said with a smile, "It's your mother."
Letting out a tiny gasp of surprise, Blair rushed down the stairs and took the phone. "Thank you, Sally," he smiled as he put the receiver to his ear. "Mom?! Is that really you?"
"Blair, sweetie, yes, it's me," Naomi said. "Are you all right?"
"Yeah, mom, I'm fine."
"Jim?"
"He's fine, too. Naomi, where are you? Your voice is echoing like you're talking trough a tin can."
"I'm in Switzerland."
Blair smiled, "Still or again?"
Naomi laughed. "A little of both I suppose. I've spent a lot of time traveling and I've made a home for myself here."
"In Switzerland?!" Blair squeaked incredulously.
"Well, I returned to the United States some time after receiving your letter and the government contacted me. I decided I liked it better here."
"They contacted you?" Blair frowned.
"Yes, they insisted that I knew where you and Jim were," Naomi sighed. "But don't worry... I didn't tell them anything. Well, I didn't *know* anything so I *couldn't* tell them anything." Her tone changed to disgust as she continued, "But they really pissed me off when they told me I couldn't leave the area in case they needed to speak to me again."
"So you did exactly what they said *not* to do?" Blair grinned, knowing his mother well.
"I won't have *anyone* telling me where I can and can not go!"
Blair could almost hear his mother stomping her foot in defiance.
"So tell me what's happening, sweetheart," Naomi said. "I've been away and only now got the message that you're back in Cascade."
Blair sat down on the bottom stair and Wolf appeared from Blair's bedroom and trotted down the stairs to join his human. The big animal nuzzled one of Blair's hands until it cooperated and began to scratch his head and ears. Then settled across Blair's bare feet, quickly dozing to the sound of the one-sided conversation.
**********
Jim was sitting at the kitchen table, staring straight ahead like a psychic trying to bend a spoon.
Blair bounced through the kitchen to the refrigerator with Wolf close behind. "Hi, Jim. I was just talking to Naomi."
"I know," Jim grunted in response. "I heard."
Blair's eyebrows rose slightly at this as he kept his eyes on his Sentinel, pulling the pitcher of lemonade from the refrigerator. "She says 'hi'."
Jim grunted again, but this time he did not make words.
"She's living in Switzerland. That call is going to cost her a fortune, man," Blair chuckled.
No response.
Blair sighed and shook his head.
"She wanted to know if it's safe for her to come her for a visit. I told her to wait a month. Hopefully things will be settled by then."
Sally moved to Blair's side with a glass. "Jimmy has been there like that for over an hour," she whispered, her voice full of worry. "He just stares. Is he all right?"
Filling the glass with lemonade, Blair said, "It's okay, Sally. We spoke with a friend yesterday about our situation and had a discussion about calling that Dr. Nolan in Washington D.C."
Sally nodded, understanding. "You are calling then?"
Blair sighed, "I can't say that Jim's reasons for making the call aren't valid... in fact I agree with them. I just don't like it and I don't trust the government at all in this." Blair stared at the back of Jim's head, knowing full well that the man was hearing every word they said. He said it was my decision to make... and I think I just made it. "Sally... I know Mr. Ellison isn't home right now... but do you think he'd mind if Jim and I used his study for a while?"
"No, I don't think he'd mind at all."
A small smile touched Blair's lips as he looked at the woman standing beside him. "Thanks. Um... I don't know how long we'll be in there."
Sally patted Blair's arm affectionately. "Take your time. If Mr. Ellison comes home before you are finished, I will explain to him. He will understand." She smiled at Wolf, who sat between the two humans, and patted his head. "I will keep an eye on him as well."
Blair stepped forward and placed a hand on Jim's shoulder. "C'mon, big guy, we've got some work to do."
**********
"Okay..." Blair sighed, leaning back in the desk chair and rubbing his tired eyes. "So we're in agreement on what this contract says?"
Jim nodded, turning from the study window that looked out over the front yard. "Yeah, I think that pretty well covers it."
Blair leaned forward and hit the save function on William Ellison's computer. Then clicked the button to print their contract out.
"How are you doing, Chief?" Jim was concerned by the dark frown on his friend's face. "Are you okay with this?"
"It's not what I want, Jim. It's just the right thing to do."
"What do you want, Blair?" Jim asked gently.
"I *want* this to all go away," Blair answered, his voice soft with sadness, eyes not willing to meet his Sentinel's. "I want things to go back to the way they were before this happened. I want to wake up and discover that it's all been a dream."
Jim stepped over to the desk and placed his hands on Blair's shoulders.
"I realize that's not going to happen. Now that we *know* there are other people with enhanced senses involved... it's like we have a responsibility to see to it they get all the help the need to deal with the gift they possess." Blair turned and looked up at Jim. "But I swear... if *anyone* tries one thing... if they even look like they might be thinking about doing *anything* to you without my okay..."
Jim didn't let Blair finish, he pulled his Guide up and into a bear hug. "Thank you, Blair Sandburg, for finding me, for keeping me sane... and for being who you are." He pushed Blair back, hands again on his shoulders, and looked into wide blue eyes. "This is a huge undertaking... another upheaval in our lives... another major change for you. You're only doing this for sake. I know I've never said it much, but I just want you to know how much you mean to me."
Surprised by the unexpected gesture, Blair's mouth formed the words "thank you", but no sound issued through his emotion-choked throat.
Jim smiled into Blair's face, then patted the shoulders under his hands gently before releasing him.
Blair quickly wiped away unshed tears with his hand. "Umm..." He choked slightly and cleared his throat before trying again. "Maybe you should make that phone call now?"
Jim continued to smile, nodding as he slipped into the desk chair and pulled the phone over in front of him. "Go open the door for my Dad, Chief," he said as he dialed the number he's retrieved from his pocket. "His hands are full."
Without a second thought Blair started towards the door before the knock was heard. When he pulled the door open, Mr. Ellison was standing there with a tray of sandwiches, fruit, and drinks.
"Wow!" Blair said with a grin as he took the tray from him.
"I hope you don't mind, Sally mentioned that you two have been in here for several hours and thought you would be hungry," William Ellison said, following Blair across the room the huge desk where Jim now sat.
"Thanks, Mr. Ellison, this is great! I'm starved."
"May I ask how things are going?"
"We've got some things sorted out and down on paper. Jim's calling Washington D.C. now to work out a meeting."
"This is good then?"
"We hope so," Blair said with a faint smile.
**********
Three days after Jim's call to D.C., Jim and Blair met Simon in one of the conference rooms in the Cascade Police Station.
"Thanks for letting us do this here, Simon," Jim said. "And for agreeing to sit in as a witness."
Simon indicated the papers on the table in front of him and said, "Do you think they'll go with this contract you and Sandburg made up?"
"They don't have a choice," Blair said nervously, hands gesturing as he paced around the long table like a caged animal. "We're willing to negotiate some, but if that contract isn't signed by the end of today... that's it."
Jim snagged Blair's arm from where he sat and pulled into the chair next to his. "Will you calm down."
"I can't," Blair said, playing with the end of his long ponytail. "This whole meeting has me on edge."
"I thought you would have cut that thing off by now," Simon said, trying for a distraction.
Blair let go of his hair and began fidgeting with a pencil. "This meeting will decide whether or not I'm going to cut it off. If things go okay and the contract is signed, I'll cut it... but not too short. If things don't work out... well, then it won't matter because we'll be going back to Peru."
There was a knock at the door and Blair jumped, making Simon jump and Jim chuckle.
"Not funny, man," Blair muttered as the three men rose to greet their guests.
Rhonda opened the door and four men walked into the office. "Can I get anything?" she asked.
"Nothing, Rhonda, thank you," Simon said.
Rhonda nodded and closed the door.
Simon turned to the only one of the men not wearing a uniform. "Dr. Nolan?"
The doctor's hand shot out and his sudden grin was wide and toothy. "Yes, I'm Dr. Lawrence Nolan, Department Head of the Defense Testing Laboratories."
Simon smiled tightly as he took the offered hand and shook it. "I'm Captain Simon Banks, sir. I'm here as a witness to this meeting." He gestured to Jim and Blair on the other side of the table. "This is Jim Ellison and Blair Sandburg."
An absolute childlike gleam appeared in Dr. Nolan's eyes as the man forgot about everyone else and quickly moved around the table. "I am so very glad to finally meet you both."
Jim immediately put himself between the doctor and Blair.
"You must be the Sentinel," Dr. Nolan said, looking up into Jim's defiant face.
Jim looked around the room and simply nodded, daring anyone to deny the fact.
"Yes... yes, I could tell by how you are so quick to protect your Guide." Dr. Nolan looked at Blair. "You are his Guide... are you not?"
Blair nodded slowly, frowning, not willing to trust this man.
"Please, please, sit. We have much to talk about."
The three men sat, and Jim looked at Simon, who nodded.
"Captain Banks, I'm Colonel Brickman, U.S. Army," the straight as a rod man said, stepping forward. "This is Admiral Marshall of the Navy and General Solderson of the Airforce."
"Gentlemen, please have a seat."
As the three men moved to each take a chair, a petite young woman appeared. She'd been standing quietly behind the men.
"Miss Sharon Carlton, Dr. Nolan's secretary." She extended her slender hand.
Simon took it and smiled genuinely. "A pleasure Miss Carlton," he said, taking her hand gently.
**********
Everyone seated themselves at the table. Dr. Nolan took the place next to Jim, as the Colonel, Admiral, and General took seats across the table. Miss Carlton sat next to the doctor and Simon sat the end of the table. Miss Carlton brought out a recorder from her briefcase and placed it on the table in the center of the group.
"I do hope you don't mind if we record this meeting," Dr. Nolan said. "I find it's a bit more reliable then written notes. Sharon is an excellent secretary, but when there are a number of people in a meeting it is very easy to miss something that is said. Invariably it is always something important."
Everyone at the table nodded their agreement.
"All right," Jim said before anyone else had a chance to speak. "Sandburg and I want to make one thing perfectly clear from the start." He looked at each of the officers and the doctor, then continued, "This is going to be done *our way*. If we don't agree 100% with something, then it won't happen."
"Mr. Ellison," Admiral Marshall said. "We don't wish to make this a difficult transition for you and Mr. Sandburg."
"We believe that your special skills would be an asset to the defense of the United States," Colonel Brickman added.
"Okay... first some questions," Blair said.
"Of course, Mr. Sandburg," Dr. Nolan replied.
"Why didn't you come to us and explain it all at the beginning? Why send government agents after us?"
"I wanted to come myself to talk to you both, but the Defense Department denied my request." Dr. Nolan gave a quick glare at the officers across from him. "Agent Sands was to explain the situation to you and relay your decision to us in Washington."
"No one explained anything to us other then that we were wanted by the Defense Department for testing," Blair stated. "Sands said that saying 'no' was 'not an option'.
"Regrettably, he did not take his assignment seriously. He regarded the Sentinel Project a joke and resented being appointed to the detail," Colonel Brickman said. "We regret that we did not realize the extent of his resentment soon enough to stop him. As soon as he is located, he will be dealt with."
"I too must take some of the blame in this," Dr. Nolan said, shaking his head in disgust. He looked at Jim and Blair with regret mirrored in his eyes and statement. "I became over exuberant upon discovering an actual Sentinel. I'm afraid I lost my objectivity for a time and pushed Agent Sands into the chase that led to your leaving the country. I tried to stop him from continuing his pursuit, but it was too late. Agent Sands seemed to develop a personal vendetta and was determined to capture you both... regardless of the consequences."
Jim reached down between his and Blair's chairs and brought up a plastic bag. He set it on the table and slid it to the middle. "Agent Sands is dead, gentlemen."
General Solderson opened and retrieved an envelope from the bag, which also held the tattered remnants of clothes. Inside the envelope were Sands identification and other personal effects that were found with him.
"He followed us to Peru. Members of the tribe that Blair and I were living with found him half dead in the jungle. They nursed him back to health and when he had the opportunity, he took Blair hostage in an attempt to force us to return to the U.S."
"How did he die?" Dr. Nolan asked in a solemn voice.
"Curare. Sands was holding a machete to Blair's throat and made the mistake of drawing blood."
General Solderson replaced the items into the envelope and dropped it back in the bag. "We are very sorry that this unfortunate incident." He tied a knot in the opened end moved the bag off the table.
They all stared at one another for a minute.
"Okay," Blair ventured. "We've been told that you're looking to start a military unit made up of individuals with enhanced senses. Is this true?"
"Yes, it is true. It is thought that these people could be especially helpful in special tactical situations."
"What kinds of situations?"
"These people would be used for rescue missions, both military and civilian," Colonel Brickman answered. "Reconnaissance missions, locating hidden explosives, detecting trip wires and other booby traps..."
"So, their main purpose is to go to war for you?"
"No more than any other military personnel. They will be extensively trained to handle wartime situations."
"So you *do* have people with enhanced senses already recruited?"
"Only ten, but we have yet to test their senses."
"Okay... now for the million dollar question." Blair took a deep breath and asked, "*Do* you have any other full Sentinels?"
"I do not believe so," Dr. Nolan answered. "I do not think there is anyone with more than three enhanced senses. However, we are not sure how to properly test them. I have been anxious for your assistance. Hoping you would share your research."
Blair and Jim looked at each and nodded their silent agreement to continue.
"Simon, will you pass out the copies of the contract, please?" Jim asked his friend.
"Contracts?" General Solderson questioned. "Nothing was said about a contract."
Simon stood and retrieved a file folder from a smaller table across the room. When he returned to the group, he passed a set of papers to each person and kept one for himself.
"Quiet, Carl," Colonel Brickmen said to the General. "Let's hear what they have to say."
"Please, take a few minutes to look it over," Jim said. "Then we'll talk."
**********
After some talk, the majority of the contract was excepted as it stood. There were several points, though, that needed extra negotiations.
"It would be safer if all testing and training took place in Washington D.C.," Admiral Marshall stated. "Security is tighter there. We can control the environment better."
"A testing facility can be established here without too much difficulty, sir," Blair said. "I know what's needed to get started and I'm sure Dr. Nolan has ideas that would be quite helpful."
"I concur with Mr. Sandburg," Dr. Nolan said with a nod. "His research is the key to getting this started. There is nothing in Washington D.C. that can not be either found here or transferred from my facility there."
"But security..." the Admiral insisted.
"Security can be set up here as easily as there," Jim interrupted. "Every branch of the service has a base in Seattle, Tacoma, Everett, or Bremerton. Security can be established using trained personnel, but if you feel your own people are better suited, you can bring them here."
"Fair enough," Colonel Brickman stated, ending one argument.
"Is it really necessary that training procedure be reviewed and approved by you and Mr. Sandburg?" General Solderson questioned. "It seems a waste of time. Training procedures were established for military personnel many years ago."
"We're not talking about your normal everyday recruits here," Jim said. "We're talking about people with special skills and special problems that need to be dealt with. I want these people to be as ready as possible for what they're liable to get into in the field. I don't plan on personally doing the entire training of each and every recruit that is brought in, but I do want to make sure they are getting what they need."
Solderson frowned, still not happy with the arrangement, but realizing what Jim said mad sense. "All right, why should Mr. Sandburg review each test and keep copies of everything. Another waste of time and resources. Also, it is another reason to keep everything in one place... like Washington D.C."
"And Mr. Sandburg's desire to be *Head* of the project in ridiculous," Admiral Marshall interjected.
"Mr. Sandburg is scientist in his own right," Dr. Nolan said. "He is thinking about what is best for this project so it will succeed."
"I'm also thinking of each person with enhanced senses," Blair added. "I sure as hell don't want them to go through what Jim had to go through before we got things under control. I have to know what is going on and I have to keep track of the research. Dr. Nolan and I can easily exchange information and results. I don't want to be *Head* of the project... only in charge of any testing of enhanced senses."
"I concur!" Dr. Nolan said, jutting a finger into the air for emphasis. "It is obvious that Mr. Sandburg and I have a mutual goal and his knowledge of enhanced senses makes him the logical person to be in charge of the testing procedures."
Colonel Brickman looked at his fellow officers and said, "I appears to me that if Dr. Nolan and Mr. Sandburg are willing to work out their procedures together, then there is no reason to change that portion of the contract."
Admiral Marshall and General Solderson reluctantly agreed.
"We do, however, need to discuss your statements for 'Expense Reimbursement' and 'Payment Terms'," the Colonel said, turning back to Jim and Blair.
Dr. Nolan quickly checked the contract and said, "They are well worth every penny, Colonel."
Colonel Brickman cracked a slight smile at Dr. Nolan's exuberance. "I'm sure they are worth 'every penny', doctor, but the project is on a budget." He looked at Jim and Blair. "Under 'Expense Reimbursement' I read, 'All airfare, transportation, lodging, and expenses incurred for the purpose of the *Sentinel Project* or projects/tests involving James Ellison and Blair Sandburg will be paid in full.'."
"Yes, sir," Jim said without looking at his copy of the contract.
"We will, of course, pay for any airfare and transportation expenditures. Lodging will be either on site or at your own expense."
"What does that mean," Blair asked.
"It means lodging will be provided, but not at a hotel," Jim provided with a small smile.
"Oh."
"No problem, Colonel."
"Good. Now... about your 'Payment Terms'," Colonel Brickman continued. "You have written, 'Payment shall be made in full at the end of each week'. Government payrolls are monthly."
"I refuse to live paycheck to paycheck, Colonel. Monthly is not acceptable," Jim said flatly.
It was a standoff.
After a minute, Blair spoke up. "What about twice a month. Every two weeks would work for us..." he looked at his partner, "wouldn't it, Jim?"
Jim thought about this, then nodded. "That would work."
Colonel Brickman nodded his agreement. "Twice a month it is."
"You can't be serious about these payment figures!" General Solderson commented impatiently.
"Very serious, sir. Mr. Sandburg and I believe it is more than fair," Jim said.
"If you change your work week from Monday through Friday to Monday through Saturday, I am willing to go with it," Colonel Brickman said.
"Colonel, I must protest!"
The Colonel turned and looked the General in the eye. "Why? Are you afraid they make more than you?"
Jim and Blair whispered back and forth for a minute as they discussed this change.
"Okay, we'll agree to a six day work week," Blair said. "But... we want one Saturday off a month and we don't do Sundays no matter what."
Colonel Brickman nodded. "National emergencies not withstanding."
"Of course."
"Good. One last thing... let's make this a two year contract instead of one year."
"Purpose?"
"Think about it," the Colonel said. "A one year contract just isn't worth it for a project like this. In two years the contract can be renewed or renegotiated."
"I think he's right, Jim," Blair said tentatively. "One year really isn't enough to tell if we've accomplished anything."
"And if we decide to cancel the whole deal?" Jim asked.
"Let's cross that road *if* it happens," Colonel Brickman stated.
Jim took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "All right... a two year contract."
"Excellent!" Dr. Nolan blurted happily.
The officers, Dr. Nolan, Jim and Blair all stood and shook hands on their deal.
"If I can have access to a word processor, I will type up the contract with changes so it can be signed," Sharon, Dr. Nolan's secretary, said.
"Yes, of course, Miss Carlton," Simon said. "You can use my office."
In a blur of sudden movement, Blair reached for his backpack and said, "Oh wait! You can use this." He dug in the pack for a moment and came up with a computer disk, which he handed to Sharon. "This is a copy of the original. You can make the changes to that so you don't have to type as much."
Sharon took the disk and smiled gratefully. "Thank you, this will help a lot."
**********
After the meeting was finished, and the contract was signed and notarized, Simon took Jim and Blair out to dinner at La Brassiere's French restaurant. An old favorite from the days before the government stepped into their lives. Blair sat admiring the contract. He read the words to himself... again. He looked at all the names that were signed at the bottom. It just didn't seem possible.
"Put that away before you lose it, Sandburg," Jim admonished.
"It's just one of the copies, Jim," Blair said. "I still can't believe we're actually doing this."
"I can't either." There was a hint of disgust in Jim's voice.
Blair looked up and frowned across the table at his friend. "What's wrong? You're not having second thoughts are you?"
Jim sighed. "No, not really. I just can't believe, that after all the shit we've been through because of these people, that we're actually going to work for them."
Blair smiled, "Yeah, kinda ironic isn't it? Hey, that Dr. Nolan turned out to be a pretty good guy, though."
Simon chuckled, "Yeah, I kept seeing you in another twenty years or so. God, I don't think the government knows what they're getting into letting you two work together." He looked at Jim. "Did you notice how the doctor acted when he was excited?"
"And just what's that suppose to mean?"
"Can you say, 'hyper'? Between the two of you, you'll be able to go in fourteen different directions at a hundred miles an hour."
"humph," Blair huffed, trying to sound indignant.
"Well, at least he's finally found someone who can keep up with him," Jim grinned teasingly. "At least we won't have to worry about where the rent money's going to come from for the next couple of years."
"When do you start?" Simon asked.
"Two months from now," Blair said.
"That's officially," Jim said. "I'd like to start looking around for buildings that we can use for testing as soon as possible."
"And we need to find a place to live."
"And get a car."
"So, you two are going to stay together, huh?" Simon asked with a knowing smirk.
"Rent's cheaper that way," Blair said with a shrug.
"Makes it easier to carpool," Jim added with an agreeable nod.
"Besides... it wouldn't be fair to Wolf."
"What if I zone?"
"What if some crazed manic comes after me?"
"I can keep him out of trouble," the two men said simultaneously.
Jim, Blair, and Simon all joined in a good laugh. For the first time in a very long time, there was a relaxed atmosphere. No more looking over their shoulders, no more wondering *if* they'd every be able to go home. They *were* home... to stay.
Simon raised his glass and said, "Here's to a friend. He knows you well... And likes you just the same!"
"Salud!" Jim said, raising his glass to Simon's.
"L'Chayim!" Blair chimed in, letting his glass clink against his friends.
**********
~end~