Wiping the cool wet cloth over the stilled body, Vin frowned as he felt the heat radiating. Reaching for the cup, he sipped some water, all the while continuing his mission of keeping Larabee's fever down. He watched the eyes moving under closed lids and wondered what Chris was seeing in his dreams.  

- - - - - - -

 Tilting his face up to the sky, the gunslinger closed his eyes, a small, contented smile touching his lips. Splashes from the cascading waterfall hit his face, cooling him down. Hearing a giggle, he turned his gaze to the lagoon, and his smile widened into a broad grin. Walking towards the water's edge, his eyes filled with pleasure and love as he watched his wife and son splashing happily in the clear blue water.

He chuckled at the sight of Adam's wet hair, sticking to his face and spiking upwards. The young boy's cheeks were glowing from the time spent in the sun and the cool water on his warm body. Raising a hand, the child beckoned his Pa to join in the fun.

Sarah's dancing eyes challenged him to enter the water. She knew that Chris Larabee would never turn down a challenge. Laughing and shaking his head in defeat, he kicked off his boots. Reaching for the top of his black pants he suddenly felt himself beginning to slide. Trying to correct his footing, his heart leapt and he cried out in alarm as he lost the battle and plummeted into the water.

Vin dropped the dripping cloth on the blond's chest when the thrashing began again. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he held the fevered man's shoulders as securely as he could.

"Calm down now!" His soothing voice defied the racing in his heart. "Yer gonna do yerself more harm."

In the underwater depths, Chris heard a voice in the distance. He stopped struggling against the pull of the lagoon bed as the calming tone ran through his body. A peace settled over him, when he realized someone was trying to help him. Maybe if he opened his eyes he'd be able to see them.

Easing the pressure on Chris's shoulders, the tracker grimaced at the throbbing in his shoulder blade. Tilting his head to one side, he watched his friend's face, as he felt a change evolving.

Two green slits appeared, at the same time as the prone man let out a pain filled groan. Licking his dry lips, the glassy eyes settled on the swimming form in front of him. Vin. The name came to him through the fog in his mind. Vin Tanner...his friend. He must have dove into the cold lagoon to help.

"Wondered when I was gonna see them eyes o' yers open." Vin's welcoming smile was short lived when the groan came again. Reaching for the cup of water on the table, the tracker put a hand behind the wet head, lifting it a little. Prodding the slack mouth with the cup, the Texan fed the gunslinger a little water.

"Not too much. Don't want ya spittin' yer belly load over me." Vin placed the damp head back on the pillow, watching as his friend's eyes closed once more. Hot fingers found his hand and gripped it as hard as their owner's weakened state would allow. Tightening his own hold, his anxious gaze rested on the blond's flushed face. "I got ya...yer not fightin' alone."

Vin watched the pained features of his friend relax and felt the grip on his hand lessen. Pulling his hand away, Tanner slid slowly from the bed until he was kneeling on the floor. Straightening his back, he hissed and wrinkled his nose, as a pain erupted in his shoulder blade. Reaching with his opposite hand, he tentatively touched the sore area, wincing again as the light contact of his fingers assaulted the throbbing injury. He hung his head and sighed, picturing the colorful bruises that must by now be painting a magnificent picture on his shoulder.

Lifting his head, the room began to sway around him. He closed his eyes, reaching blindly for the damp cloth. "Dammit!" He ground his teeth together in discomfort and frustration, cursing his own weakness. The angry word fuelled his determination, and opening his eyes, he concentrated on his task. Reaching for Chris's hand he held it tightly, while the other wiped away the sweat from the gunslinger's body.

The thundering of hooves finally ceased as the men reached the cabin. Throughout the journey, five hearts were racing in time to the galloping of their horses. Two of their brothers were in trouble, and keeping their number at seven was the only way they were thinking.

His senses causing a prickling at the back of his neck, Vin's stomach rebelled as his head snapped up. He turned his head quickly to the side, where he knew the basin of water was situated, as he felt the bile rising in his throat. The sound of Vin's heaving met the five peacekeeper's ears as they burst into the cabin.

"Someone help Vin to a chair 'til I can get to him." Nathan's urgent voice called over his shoulder as the men ran through the small abode. "...and don't let him move!" Knowing his request would be carried out, he turned his attention to Chris. Placing a hand on the blond's forehead he frowned at the heat that met his palm. Seeing Vin reach for the abandoned cloth, the healer gently closed his hand over the Texan's. "I got it, Vin." He raised his eyes and saw Josiah trying to coax the tracker away from the gunslinger. Satisfied that the sharpshooter was in good hands, he returned his attention to the prone figure on the bed, not noticing when Vin slipped his hand into Chris's, gripping it tightly. The ex-slave's keen eyes noted the bruising on the lean torso, but his main worry was the broken leg. He pulled the sheet back apprehensively and swallowed hard as his eyes met the makeshift splints and bandage.

Hearing a sharp intake of breath, he looked up again to see Buck standing at the foot of the bed, a look of immeasurable grief on his face. "Here, take this." The healer handed the big man the cloth he'd just taken from Vin. The last thing he needed was for the ladies man to lose it. He knew how much the rogue suffered when one of them was injured, and when it was Chris, that hurt was magnified tenfold. "You know what to do, we gotta try to keep his fever down." The ex-slave figured that, by keeping the scoundrel occupied, it would be one less of them he'd have to worry about.

Shifting his gaze, Nathan's brown eyes rested on the gambler, who was unpacking supplies on the table. "Ezra! I need some water in here."

Picking up a bowl, the southerner made his way out of the cabin. He hissed and winced, rubbing tentatively at his sore buttock. The last thing he wanted to do was sit down, so he was grateful to be given a task.

Vin wasn't fully aware of the other men in the room until a shadow fell over him and he felt hands on his arms. "Let's get you up out of there." Josiah's voice sent waves of colorful images past his eyes, his head throbbing in time to the words. A watery blue gaze turned to look up at the preacher, and a stubborn look crossed Vin's face when he felt himself being guided from his knees, onto his feet.

"Come on Vin, let go of his hand." The preacher watched as the tracker stuck out his jaw doggedly.

"No!" the determined Texan voice rasped.

"Vin, sit down and drink some water. Get that taste out of your mouth." The healer directed, not looking up from his task of unraveling the bandage on Chris's leg.

"It appears we have a stalemate." Ezra offered as he handed Nathan a bowl of water and retreated quickly from the bed. Seeing Josiah continuing to have trouble with Vin, he decided to lend his assistance and moved to the tracker's side.

Grabbing Tanner's hand, the gambler tried to pry away the fingers that were wrapped around the gunslinger's. He sighed in exasperation when the sharpshooter would not relinquish his firm but gentle hold. "Let go, Vin." He tried to pry one finger after the other from around the blond's hand, but as he let go of each one, Vin closed his grip once more.

"No...gotta hold on to it fer him." Vin was leaning against the bed, trying to pull away from the two men.

Realizing that the younger man was ailing, Ezra pulled a chair close to the bed and looked to Josiah, hoping he had some words of wisdom.

"It's alright, Vin. We're here now. We can help you take care of Chris. No need for you to do it alone anymore." The two men watched the tracker's reactions, both relaxing a little when they saw his stubborn gaze waver. The preacher continued in a soothing voice. "The chair's right here. You don't have to leave him."

Tired blue eyes went from one face to the other before Vin reluctantly let go of Chris's hand. He closed his eyes as the room began to sway before him again, when he opened them, his gaze landed on Buck's back. Allowing himself to be eased backwards into the chair, he waited for the form to move close enough. Reaching forward, he snagged the dark sleeve and waited for the head to turn.

Buck was trying not to look in the direction of Chris's injured leg, as he rubbed cool water over the hot skin. He didn't want to see how bad his friend was injured, but deep down knew that not setting eyes on it would not make it go away. Feeling himself grabbed by the arm, he turned around quickly and worried sky blue met anguished stormy blue, as Chris's two closest friends locked eyes. Stilling his movement with the cloth, the rogue drew his eyebrows together in a silent query as he sat on the edge of the bed.

"Hold it...don't let go..." Vin's face was determined, his gaze unwavering. "Promise!"

Buck shook his head slightly and frowned, trying to figure out what the tracker was trying to say. The last word issued was a confusing mixture of a prayer and growl. He studied the hot, anxious face so close to his, and touched the tracker's shoulder lightly, his keen eyes catching the wince the light contact caused. "I'll take care of it, Vin."

The grip tightened on the rogue's sleeve. "Do it now...keep it in his hand."

Turning his head, Buck glanced over his shoulder, to see where Vin's eyes had been flitting whenever the tracker's gaze had wandered from his. He stopped searching when he caught sight of Chris's hand, lying so still. "I will Vin, I swear I will." The emotion hit voice promised. He went to squeeze the tracker's shoulder again, but remembered Vin's reaction when he had touched it before. Moving his hand, he tapped the sharpshooter's knee lightly.

Moving his attention away from Vin, he reached over and gripped Chris's hand in his own. He was aware of watchful blue eyes on his movements, and he suddenly felt even closer to the scruffy Texan. They shared a common bond with Chris, and Buck needed no explanations as to why Vin felt so strongly that Chris's hand needed to be held. If that's what it took to help keep his oldest friend with them, then it was an easy task.

"Don't let go." Vin's whisper carried across to him, as he felt the strong grip finally leaving his sleeve. Nodding without turning his head, he put the cloth in the tub of cold water and began to cool down the hot body once more. Listening to the soothing voices of Josiah and Ezra as they hovered over Vin, Buck swallowed hard when his gaze suddenly roamed and came into contact with Chris's injured leg, now minus any bandages. "...Oh God..." He swallowed the rising bile back down and blinked away the dizzy spell. His eyes watered as he realized what Vin must have gone through when he was confronted with the sickly sight. He settled his attention on Nathan, the thought having given him renewed courage.

"What else can we do, Nate?" the rogue asked worriedly.

Shaking his head, the healer glanced up fleetingly. "Just keep doing what you're doing for now. JD's boiling some water." As if on cue, the youngest of the seven appeared beside the ex-slave with a bowl of hot water. His big eyes grew wider when they settled on the open leg wound. His horrified face flitted from one man to the other as he raised a hand to his mouth. "I'm sorry..." he swallowed and dipped his head. "I'm sorry." He gasped again, before running through the cabin and out of the door.

Trying to see past Buck's body, Vin moved his head from one side to the other. "How's he doin'?" he wasn't sure he wanted to hear the answer, but like the others, had to know all the same.

Nathan continued to work as he thought about what to say. He knew he couldn't candy coat it, these men were not stupid. They'd all seen injuries of varying degrees and knew where this came on a scale of one to ten. He looked up, pausing in his work for the first time since he'd arrived. Looking from one to the other of the four pairs of eyes patiently awaiting his answer, he found he couldn't look at the big blue depths of Vin Tanner. Settling finally on Ezra he blew out a breath. "Infection's settin' in already. I can't stitch it 'til I know that's all gone. He's lost a lot of blood, and sportin' a fever." He stopped and, taking a deep breath, his worried brown eyes shifted to the anxious tracker. "You done good with settin' the bone, Vin."

The Texan dipped his head, blinking away the moisture that seemed to be flowing freely from his eyes that day. He could hear what Nathan wasn't saying, and that worried him more than the spoken words. "We can't let 'im die, Nate." The sorrow in the raspy voice caused Josiah to cast aside any reservations and place a gentle hand on the back of Vin's head. The tracker didn't react and so the preacher left it there, feeling the head move slowly from side to side.

"No one's gonna let him die, Vin. Least ways, no one on earth." Buck uttered vehemently, as, with renewed vigor, he bathed Chris's body.

He grew accustomed to the darkness of the underwater depths, and the loneliness he'd been feeling since losing sight of Vin. He realized by now that his family and friend must have given up on him still being alive. He wondered why he couldn't seem to find the surface of the water. He was hot, yet could feel the cool sensation of water lapping against his skin. Floating just above the bed of the lagoon, he wasn't ready for the sudden, excruciating pain when his leg became trapped between two rocks. Keeping his mouth tightly closed, so he wouldn't swallow any water, he released an agonized groan from deep in his throat.

Nathan's head shot up, and his hands stilled in their task of cleaning Chris's leg. He could feel the blond's resistance to his ministrations, but they were weak and knew it wouldn't be a problem. His eyes shifted to Josiah who was trying to keep Vin in the chair. "Vin, stay put. There's enough of us to take care of Chris."

The healer's call was answered by a guilty look from the tracker, who sank back into the seat. The Texan realized that, by being a burden, he was taking some of the care away from Chris. Settling his eyes on his best friend's face, he sat back and watched, sending a silent message to the blond. "I know yer fightin' Chris. We're right here, pard. Fight with all ya got."

Seeing that Vin was at last doing as he was bid, Nathan glanced at the rogue. "Buck, make sure the water stays cool." he instructed, beginning to clean the leg wound again.

"I'll get more water." JD called out, making his way to the door. Ezra had joined him in preparing some food when he had returned to the cabin after his bout of sickness. The youngest of the seven was feeling foolish and was determined to prove to them all that he was now in control.

"Thanks JD." Nathan turned to Buck, sensing his eyes on him.

"He's burnin' up, Nate. This isn't helping."

"Believe me, it is." The healer's brown eyes bore into Buck's, bringing the words home. "If we stop wettin' him down..."

"I'm sorry...I know." Buck nodded, gulped and accepted the fresh bowl of water from JD. "Thanks kid." He winked and offered the young sheriff a small reassuring smile. "You're doing great." He whispered so only the youngest member could hear. Knowing how hard JD was trying to overcome his weakness of before, he put aside his own worries to alleviate some of the young mans discomfort.

"Thanks Buck." The grateful youth nodded, averting his eyes from Chris's injured leg as he passed by on his way back to join Ezra.

Fire was burning through his leg and the water seemed to be growing warmer. He squirmed and struggled, trying to free his trapped limb. Finally he felt it move slightly from its prison. He pursed his lips tightly together when the leg finally moved, the rocks tearing deep into the flesh as it finally found freedom. Keeping his lips tightly together, he felt his face finally breaking the surface of the water. Knowing it was safe to open his mouth now, an agonized cry tore from deep down in his stomach, releasing itself through his mouth and seeming to echo around the rocks that encased the lagoon.

"Hold him still." Nathan cried urgently as his patient began to struggle. The cry had startled them all and Josiah was having a hard time keeping Vin seated. Releasing his hold in frustration the preacher stepped back, watching the tan colored blur as it moved towards the bed.

Settling on his knees, Vin leaned his face close to Chris's ear. He placed a hand on the top of the wet blond head, his eyes looking pleadingly at the fevered features of his friend. "Chris, ya know I ain't one fer askin' favors o' folk." His eyes darted as he saw movement, and watched Josiah taking a firm hold of Chris's hips. He was unaware of the other men's eyes on him as he continued to speak quietly to the gunslinger. "But I gotta ask a favor of ya. See, we're tryin' t' help ya here, n' Nathan's gettin' a mite vexed with ya." His lips twitched and he moved his mouth slightly closer to the blond's ear. "An' ya know what that can mean." Swallowing, his clenched heart relaxed a little as the thrashing body seemed to settle. " So, can I ask ya t' keep as still as ya can, n' let Nate do what he's gotta?"

The handsome blond's features relaxed slowly and the thrashing stopped completely. A sigh escaped the gunslinger's lips followed by a weak groan.

"Thanks, Cowboy..." Vin whispered, starting to move away. His eyebrows raised slightly as he turned his head towards the ear again. "Just so's ya know...we're takin' care o' that gift ya holdin', Chris. So save some o' yer strength fer the leg alright?" After waiting a few seconds for the nod he knew deep down was not about to come, he rose shakily to his feet. He felt a steadying hand under his elbow and his blue eyes locked with Josiah's. The tracker drew his brows together at the look of pride he saw on the preacher's face; not realizing the look was for him.

All eyes watched as the Texan was guided back to his seat, the room was filled with an air of wonder at the power Chris and Vin seemed to have over one another.

Nathan let out a slow breath as he felt Chris's body relaxing completely. He didn't have time to think about what had just happened...but Buck did.

Still holding tightly to Chris's hand, the ladies man stole an admiring look at the tracker, sitting in the chair with his head bent. The rogue had been friends with Chris a long time, but he'd never had, and knew he never would have the very special and unique connection that Chris and Vin shared. JD had asked him once whether he resented the two men's friendship. But how could he? He welcomed it like a warm embrace. He'd watched the green light return to Chris's eyes and saw his joy of living slowly rekindled and knew that it was all Vin's doing. Tanner was a special person to be able to do that for his friend, and his gut warmed at the thought of the scrawny Texan.

His warm blue eyes settled on his and Chris's clasped hands as he slowly returned from his pondering. Realizing, after Vin's softly spoken words to Chris, that it was more than just holding a sick friend's hand for reassurance, Buck squeezed a little tighter.

Lying beside the shimmering lagoon, Chris relaxed as the sun beat down on his body. He knew that Vin was nearby, he'd heard his voice. He frowned, remembering that there had been other people with him too. He just couldn't seem to recall who they were. Feeling his leg throbbing painfully, he winced and bit his lip. He could feel hands on the injured limb, and figured it was Vin bandaging the wound. He winced at the constant pounding of his head, deciding that he needed to sleep off his headache. Feeling someone squeezing his hand, he squeezed it gently in response, before drifting into a welcome darkness.

Feeling the soft pressure on his fingers Buck's eyes shot to the clasped hands and then looked towards Vin. The tracker nodded, a small smile on his face telling the rogue that he hadn't missed the movement. The eye contact was broken when Josiah moved and knelt in front of the tracker.

"Here, drink some of this." He placed a cup in the tracker's hand and guided it towards the dry lips.

Gulping down the cool drink, Vin's eyes showed his gratitude. Seeing movement from the other side of the bed, he pushed the cup hastily away and watched as Nathan straightened. Waiting for the healer to work the kinks out of his back, the Texan eyed the new splint and dressing on Chris' broken leg.

"Nate?" The loaded question was evident in that one word.

Shrugging as he sighed, Nathan picked up his bag and walked around the bed, running wet fingers through his short hair. "Like I told you, the leg's infected. Gotta get rid of that, and keep the fever down."

"He hit 'is head too."

Nathan nodded at the tracker. "Yeah, it didn't split the skin. But I'm gonna keep my eye on it." He narrowed his eyes and put a hand on Josiah's shoulder. "Let me get in there."

Nodding, the preacher rose to his feet. Moving to the other side of the bed, he picked up a cloth and began to help Buck in keeping Chris cool.

Vin winced and pulled away as Nathan's gentle hands probed his head wound. "It's no wonder Chris bucked around like he did." he growled, throwing blue darts into the healer's eyes.

"Keep still so's I can look, Vin." Nathan answered impatiently, ignoring Buck's snort as he concentrated on the stubborn tracker who was determined to try his sanity.

"Hmm...might put a coupla stitches in this." The healer mumbled, almost falling backwards when the Texan jumped to his feet.

"Yer not puttin' a needle in m' head, Nate. It's not bleedin'." The room began to spin around him and he gulped as acid rose in his stomach. Falling heavily into the chair he blinked repeatedly until his gaze finally focused on two stern brown eyes.

"Vin." The ex-slave stopped and his eyes softened before he continued. "Vin, I know about healin', so let me do what's best for you, alright?"

Dropping his head briefly, the tracker looked up apologetically. "'m sorry Nate. Do what ya gotta do."

Smiling and patting the buckskin knee, the healer reached for his tools and set to work.

Hearing a soft groan, Buck stopped working the cloth over his friends body and squeezed his hand reassuringly. "It's alright Chris, relax ol' buddy." He watched the features as they screwed up in pain. "Nate! He's hurtin'."

Holding Vin's chin firmly so he couldn't move his head, the healer called instructions over his shoulder. "Try and give him some laudanum, it's in my bag." All the while, his gaze held the tracker's, trying to convey to him that he was in control.

Buck reached into the bag and retrieved the bottle, not letting go of Chris's hand. His fingers were beginning to go numb, but he knew it was important in some way, and so he held on tight. Handing the bottle to Josiah, his other hand patted the blond's shoulder as another groan passed the gunslinger's dry lips. "Hurry up, Josiah." He growled, hating the sound of the pain filled moans.

The preacher poured a little water from a pitcher into a cup and added a few drops of the medicine. Nodding to Buck, he waited for the rogue to raise Chris's head before easing the rim between the gunslinger's lips. "Come on Chris...swallow." He coached, and smiled when he heard the leader gulp down the liquid.

The groan came again as Buck returned the hot head to the pillow. Both men watched until the pale features seemed to relax, before continuing with their task.

"Right that should do it." Nathan sat back on his heels and examined the bandage he'd just secured around the tracker's head. "You need to get some rest, Vin." He raised a hand, when the Texan mouth opened to protest. "I mean sleep rest, not sittin' down rest."

Buck chuckled as he worked, and threw a question over his shoulder. "Anything else hurtin'?" His eyes showed a hint of mischief, and Josiah cocked his head questioningly.

Nathan narrowed his eyes when Vin threw Buck a threatening look. "Now I'm askin', Tanner. Anything else I should know about?"

Feeling uncomfortable at the attention he was receiving, Vin shifted around in his seat. "...m' shoulder's hurtin' a mite." The reluctant admission was coupled with a glare towards Buck that Larabee would have been proud of.

Huffing agitatedly, Nathan rose to his feet. "Alright, lets get this shirt off an' take a look."

Wincing at the movements, Vin helped as much as he could to undo his shirt.

Easing the garment from the tracker, Nathan frowned, and his mouth dropped open at the sight of the injured shoulder. "Dammit Vin. I'm lookin' at every colour of the rainbow." He shook his head from side to side. "You shoulda said somethin' sooner." He admonished, reaching into his bag.

"Chris needed ya more n' me." The Texan replied, pain filling his voice as Nathan gently probed the bruised area.

"Nothin's broken." The healer said at last. "But it's gonna hurt like hell for a while. I'll make up somethin' to rub into it an' you need to keep it still."

Vin screwed up his nose in disgust. "Hell Nate, tell me it ain't gonna be one o' those things o' yers that smell like a dead skunk."

"I doubt we'll notice." Ezra entered the conversation. "That disgusting article you call a coat smells like a dead animal at the best of times."

Twinkling blue eyes had Josiah baffled again as the rogue joined the fray. "Hey Ez, I think you may be needing some dead animal rub too...or haven't you mentioned your problem to Nathan yet?"

"Alright, that's enough." The healer retrieved what he sought from his bag and handed it to Ezra. "Boil some water and mix this in will you Ez?" he turned towards the gambler. "...and why does Buck think you need a rub?"

"Mister Wilmington's attempt at humor, nothing more. I'm in perfect working order." The southerner turned away and began walking to the stove. His back stiffened as the healer's voice called after him.

"I see your problem. The walk gives it clean away. I got somethin' for that too."

Throwing an evil green glare over his shoulder as Buck did nothing to hide his mirth, the gambler began to prepare Nathan's concoction.

- - - - - -

The light from scattered lanterns sent a multitude of flickering shapes dancing around the cabin walls. The evening had settled in quickly, and the men were pleased that Nathan had been able to complete his tasks before daylight faded.

Vin was sitting in the chair by Chris's bedside, watching and listening intently. The tracker had only moved from the blond's side once, to take care of business outside. His left arm was in a sling, and his pale face seemed whiter as it blended with the bandage wrapped around his head.

Ezra and JD had taken over the task of bathing Chris's body, while Josiah and Buck ate supper with Nathan. The three men at the table sat in silence as the light from the fire glowed orange and yellow across their pensive faces.

Chris had been still for a long time, small groans now and again were the only indication that he was anywhere near consciousness. The tension in the small abode was rising out of each mans body and settling into the atmosphere.

Nathan's brown eyes settled on Vin, worry causing him to furrow his brow as he took in the pale face. The tracker refused to move from the chair, and when Buck had reluctantly left Chris's side, Tanner was adamant that Ezra had to hold the gunslinger's hand. Again none of the men questioned Vin's motives, knowing that there was a damn good reason why the Texan was being so stubborn about it.

Sighing, Nathan rose from his chair, placing his hands at the small of his back and bending backwards. Walking slowly towards Vin, he wasn't surprised when the tired blue eyes watched his approach. Sinking to his knees beside the chair, he tried to send a message through his eyes. "Vin, you need to sleep."

"Can't sleep, not 'til I know..." Turning his head away, the Texan brought his free hand up to cup his face. "I can't..."

Closing his eyes, the healer blew out a steadying breath. "We're not gonna know for a while, Vin. You know that." He got no response. "We can put some blankets on the floor in the corner behind you. You'll still be close."

The shaggy head lifted slowly and turned towards Nathan. "If ya promise ya won't let me sleep through anythin'...an' ya make sure someone's always holdin' Chris's hand."

"I promise." The healer whispered, tapping the sharpshooter lightly.

"Mebbe Josiah could spout some o' them purty words around Chris...ya know...from the Bible."

The emotion in the Texan voice clenched at Nathan's heart as distressed blue eyes bore into his. Nodding, the healer blinked away his own tears. "I'll ask him." Rising slowly to his feet, he walked back to the table. "Need some blankets for Vin to lie on."

Within minutes, a comfortable array of blankets lined the corner of the cabin. Three sets of hands guided Vin to his feet. "I ain't an invalid, let go o' me." The irate raspy voice made Buck grin.

"Hell, Vin. Reckon that skunk you're wearin' on your shoulder was bit by a rattle snake."

Blue eyes glared at the chuckling rogue. "Go t' hell, Bucklin."

"Alright, I can take it from here." Nathan sent a warning look to the rogue, and the men dispersed, leaving Vin in the healer's capable hands.

Leading him towards the blankets, he helped him ease to the floor. He pulled the tracker's boots from his feet, all the while sensing the younger mans discomfort at needing help. The ex-slave shook his head when an involuntary groan passed the Texan's lips.

"You shoulda had some of the laudanum like I wanted you to. Woulda helped you settle."

"I can settle jest fine on m' own." The sharpshooter found a comfortable position lying on his side, and Nathan watched as eyelids fluttered over the tired blue eyes.

"Take care o' Chris...make 'im hold on." The slurred words had barely left the Texan's mouth before he surrendered to sleep.

"I will Vin...I swear I will." Nathan whispered, hoping he wasn't making an empty promise.

Moving to the bed, the healer put a hand to Chris's hot forehead. He felt helpless, and the frustration was gnawing a hole in his gut. Meeting Ezra's eyes with his own, he couldn't help a small smile when the gambler's face took on a look of determination. He watched as the southerner worked the wet cloth over their leader's torso with a new determination.

The healer reached out and grabbed Standish's hand. "Easy Ezra. Nothing else is broken and he doesn't have any internal injuries. I wanna keep it that way."

Looking up into amused brown eyes, the gambler's shoulders sagged. "I'm sorry, Nathan. I'm just trying..."

"I know, it's okay." Patting Ezra's arm, the healer moved away. "Call me if he stirs." The ex-slave walked to the table and grabbed a blanket. Settling himself in a corner, he wrapped the cover around his body and closed his eyes, hoping to catch a little sleep before he was needed again.

Looking absently around the room, Ezra's tired eyes moved from one sleeping man to the other. He settled his gaze on JD, watching as the younger man prepared some soup. Sniffing in the appetizing aroma, the gambler closed his eyes, only to snap them open again when he found himself in danger of falling asleep. Turning his attention to Chris, he placed a cool cloth on the blond's hot forehead and held it there.

He turned towards JD again, chuckling when he heard him singing softly. He watched as the young sheriff added some chopped carrots to the boiling contents in the pot. A wide smile split the gambler's face when the youngest of the seven cursed after dropping the spoon he'd been using. As JD bent to retrieve it, Ezra's keen eyes grew wide when he saw the dishcloth around the Easterner's neck catch the flame from the fire.

Ezra jumped to his feet, releasing his hold on Chris's hand. Rushing to JD's side, he whipped the burning cloth from around the unaware mans neck. Throwing it to the floor, he stamped out the stubborn flame.

JD gulped hard, big brown eyes going from the scorched dishcloth to Ezra's face. "Th...thanks."

"You're very welcome." The gambler answered with a relieved smile. His eyes scanned the dimly lit room. "It appears our small drama didn't wake anyone." Picking up the useless cloth, he went to the door and threw it out.

Feeling himself sliding back into the water, Chris's heart began to race. He gasped, trying to call out, but his throat was too dry. He dug the fingers of one hand into the dirt, attempting to grab hold of something, anything to stop him from being engulfed by the lagoon again. His other hand grabbed at air, searching for the grip that had made him feel safe until a few moments ago. He tried to call out again, and this time succeeded as his shoulders disappeared beneath the warm water. He reached his hand up, splaying his fingers out, desperately hoping that he would feel another hand grasp his and pull him to safety.

Vin's breathing grew more rapid, as his brows drew together in a frown. The feeling that he was needed grew stronger with every heartbeat. Fighting his body's urges to stay asleep, he pulled his mind towards consciousness. Opening his eyes, he blinked continuously, battling against the need to close them again. He sucked in a breath as an image of Chris reaching out to him filled his senses. Pushing himself up onto his elbow, he groaned as a pain ripped through his shoulder and his head seemed to pound against his skull. Looking towards the bed, he quickly cast aside his discomfort and climbed to his feet. Staggering towards the lone man on the bed, his sleep deprived eyes focused on the outstretched hand of his friend.

Closing the door behind him, Ezra turned and saw the tottering, bandaged man heading towards Chris's bedside. "Oh Lord!" He quickly made his way through the cabin, stalling when he was painfully reminded of his sore, embarrassing ailment. "Vin, go and lie down, I'm taking care of Chris." His call seemed to have met deaf ears, but as he reached the tracker he gasped as he was pushed aside.

"Not no more yer not!"

The gambler recoiled at the nasty growl. A bullet wouldn't have done the damage that the accusing, angry blue glare bestowed. He flinched visibly, as the Texan's fire singed him soundly, before turning his attention back to Chris. He watched as the sharpshooter reached the bed and dropped to his knees. Seeing the younger man pull his arm from it's sling, he watched as Vin reached for Chris's hand, gripping it tightly.

"Ezra!" JD hissed as he reached the gambler's side. "What's going on?"

"I fear I failed in my duties."

The young sheriff took in the downhearted look of the man beside him, before slowly moving his gaze to the scene at the bed. "But you saved me from being burnt."

The tone in his quiet statement, echoed what Ezra was feeling; he'd been caught between the devil and the deep blue sea. He'd been confronted with the choice of keeping hold of Chris's hand or keeping JD from being injured. It appeared that his action had indeed saved the younger man from pain, but had endangered Chris in a way only Vin seemed to understand. Swallowing down the guilt, he pushed his thoughts to the back of his mind to ponder on later, when he heard the hushed Texan drawl.

"It's alright, Cowboy, I gotcha. We're all here, 'bout time ya woke the hell up." He shifted slightly, moving his mouth closer to Chris's ear. "Sorry 'bout leavin' ya. Ez had somethin' he had t' do. Promise it won't happen again. I swear on that tattered ol' excuse fer a bible o' Josiah's."

The tracker was oblivious to everything around him, not aware that Nathan, Buck and Josiah had joined Ezra and JD. Blinking the sleepiness from their eyes, their half-awake minds were trying to figure out what was happening, and what had woken them from their slumber.

"What's going on?" Buck whispered from the corner of his mouth, the first to finally be awake enough to ask.

"I let go of Chris's hand to help JD." Ezra whispered back, a note of regret in his voice.

Starting to move forward, Nathan was stopped by Buck's arm. He turned questioning brown eyes on the ladies man.

"Let Vin settle him first."

Looking back towards the two men, one laying on the bed, the other kneeling beside it, the healer nodded, seeing the logic in Buck's words. The five peacekeepers stood together, watching the strong friendship working it's magic once again.

Squeezing the injured man's hand tightly, Vin waited for a sign that the blond felt secure once more, trying not to panic when all he felt was emptiness. Dipping his head with a sigh, he raised it again and put a trembling hand on the blond's forehead.

"C'mon Chris, we only left ya fer a few seconds, y' can find yer way back...I know ya can."

Five men held their collective breath, as they watched and waited for Vin to relax. Because that was the only way they would know that Chris was still fighting. Only Tanner would be able to feel when or if the blond reacted. Through their eyes, they saw an injured friend lying still on a bed, but they knew the tracker saw and felt a lot more than that. Their eyes bore into the two men, willing them to find each other again.

Chris pulled himself out of the water and clawed his way up the bank. He wasn't sure what it was that kept him from harm, he just felt an unseen force enveloping him. Every time it disappeared he felt himself slipping away, and every time it came back, he basked in the knowledge that he was being cradled in a protective embrace. Feeling safe and secure again, he smiled as he listened to the sound of his family splashing in the lagoon.

He shivered as cool air hit his wet clothes and skin. He could hear a voice whispering to him, and felt a pull at his arm. He grit his teeth and tried to groan when a pain tore through his leg, but no sound left his quivering lips.

Hearing the voice again, his brow furrowed as he tried to concentrate on the words. He gradually felt the warmth of the sun return, beginning to dry the water soaked clothes that were molded to his body.

Vin took a deep breath, feeling the change. He exhaled slowly in relief, knowing his words were being heard. He left his hand on the hot forehead, his fingers toying absently with a stray lock of Larabee's hair.

"Remember that gift we talked about, durin' the storm? Well, I reckon yer decidin' whether it's worth holdin' onto 'r not." He swallowed the lump that suddenly appeared in his throat. "Well, the way I see it, ya wouldna reached out so far fer a life line iffen y'd made up yer mind. So if it's all the same t' you, I'm thinkin' we'll keep holdin' on, 'til that hard head o' yers figures it out."

JD turned his head slightly towards Buck and opened his mouth to speak, only to be stopped by a nudge to the ribs. He turned his eyes to the ladies man, who had his eyebrows drawn together and a finger to his lips. Getting the message loud and clear, the youngest of the seven returned his eyes to the bedside scene.

Feeling his eyelids grow suddenly lighter, Chris concentrated on drawing them upwards. He wanted to tell Vin he could hear him, wanted to let him know that he was trying really hard not to drown.

Vin drew in a sharp, shuddering breath as he watched the eyelids flutter and slowly open to half-mast.

Gasps from the other five men echoed and bounced off the walls. They stood riveted as weary blue eyes held fevered green, and a communication without words took place. The room seemed to fill with a strange energy; it was almost an eerie experience to the men who were beyond comprehending what uncanny force bound the two friends.

An unseen aura seemed to surround the bed, as Tanner and Larabee's expressions changed to mirror their unspoken words.

Blinking at last, Vin made a slight nod with his head and the corner of Chris's mouth tweaked. Complete trust shone from the green eyes before the blond's eyelids fluttered and closed again.

The tracker's whole body sagged as though the contact between the two had taken all of his energy. Taking his hand from the hot forehead, Tanner buried his face in his own clammy palm. He knew only too well that the last few moments could have been the last time he'd see the clear green color of Chris's eyes. He could feel the battle building up; hell, he could see it in the sea green gaze that had held him transfixed. He held no illusions; it was going to be a rough couple of days.

Movement began in the cabin once more, as the men, transfixed by what they had just witnessed, pulled themselves together.

"What just happened there?" Ezra's eyes remained transfixed as he absently rubbed his sore rear.

"I wish I could tell you." Nathan moved forward as he answered. Reaching the bed, he pulled the sheet away from the leader's injured leg.

"I'm gonna go...do...the soup." JD pointed behind him as he spluttered out the words. Turning, he walked back to the stove, picking up the spoon and stirring the simmering concoction.

"My culinary skills are required..." Ezra turned and retreated, joining JD at the stove. There was no way he wanted to be around when the healer removed the bandage that hid Chris's horrific wound.

Feeling a light hand on his shoulder, the tracker turned sharply, finding himself looking into concerned pale blue eyes.

"Vin?"

" 'm fine, J'siah." The voice rasped tiredly. "Help with Chris...'m fine." Pushing himself to his feet, he gave a grateful nod as the preacher dragged a chair forward, allowing him to sink into it. Closing his eyes against the pounding headache he'd only just registered having, he shuddered out a suffering breath.

The smile stayed on Larabee's face, as he basked in the warm sunlight. The lingering memory of Vin's strong blue gaze made the blond feel safe. He was too tired to open his eyes again, his energy was sapped from trying to keep himself ashore. Even when he heard Adam's giggle, and splashing coming from the lagoon, he remained still on the soft bank. He was weary beyond words, his leg throbbing constantly, but his mind still managed to conjure up a strange thought. Why did Adam and Sarah have no problem with the water, when it was intent on trying to drown him? Shifting to get more comfortable, the question was forgotten as his leg protested violently at his movement. Sucking in a breath, he groaned and concentrated on fine tuning the awful pain to a bearable level.

Slowly and gently, Nathan unwound the dressing, drawing back with a grimace at the sight and smell of the angry wound. Infection had well and truly set in, and that wasn't what he'd wanted to find. Feeling eyes on him, he looked up and his gaze locked with a knowing Texan face.

"What?"

Blinking, Nathan broke his eye contact and turned his eyes towards Buck. Mentally shaking his head, he turned away, once again focusing on what he was doing.

"What?" The ladies man was now at the bedside, he'd seen the look that passed between Vin and the healer, and didn't like it at all. Looking down at the wound, he took a step backwards. "...Oh God..."

"Yeah...there's the answer to your question." Nathan pointed to the pitcher of water. "Put some of that in a bowl will you, Buck?"

Nodding dumbly, the rogue did as he was bid, trying not to gag as the smell of JD's soup mingled with the acrid odor of the open wound.

Watching Nathan and Buck as they worked on the injured leg, Vin squeezed Chris's hand every once in a while. He realized the others probably thought he'd lost his mind, the way he kept insisting someone had to hold on all the time. He couldn't quite comprehend why himself, he just knew instinctively that it was important. The words spoken during the storm the night before hung heavy in the air, he could feel them, he just hoped Chris could too.

Vin's head started to droop, his chin closing in on his chest, as fatigue began to claim his body. His eyes snapped up when a groan left the blond's lips, and the fevered head moved from side to side. He could sense his friend was fighting an inner battle, even though a calm had settled over the sick man since their silent exchange.

"Vin, you need to lay down before you fall off the chair." Josiah's words, although soft, still managed to startle the sharpshooter. He'd known that the oldest of the seven was still hovering nearby, but his focus had been on Chris.

Turning stubborn eyes on the preacher his jaw set in a firm line. "I ain't lettin' go...he needs t' feel the contact."

Josiah sighed...not this argument again.

Feeling the body next to him go tense and grow agitated, Nathan continued to work as he spoke to Buck. "Go on, I can handle it from here."

The ladies man patted the weary man's back in gratitude, moving past him, he sat on the bed, facing the sharpshooter. "Come on, Vin. Hand 'im over."

The tracker scrutinized Wilmington's earnest features, seeing the strong need in the sky blue eyes that pleaded with him. He was tired and his head was pounding, but he was afraid to let go. If the connection was lost again, he wasn't sure he would be able to retrieve it. He turned his eyes away as he fought an inner battle.

Buck could see that Vin was in a quandary. He could see the pain-rimmed fatigue in the sharpshooter's body. He realized that the younger man wasn't happy with the idea of entrusting Chris's waning life with anyone else. He could see his point, after what happened a while ago, but the rogue knew how important it was to hold on, he wouldn't let go.

"Vin..." The tracker's gaze darted back to Wilmington's emotion filled sky eyes. Reaching out, the ladies man placed a hand over the two others clasped together on the sheet. "I swear I won't let go. You know what this man means to me." The rogue's voice cracked with emotion and he dipped his dark head.

Tanner heard and felt the need in Buck's words, and his heart wrenched. He suddenly felt guilty. What right did he have to take away what could be precious moments from Larabee's oldest friend? Resting his eyes on Wilmington's dark locks, he waited for him to raise his head. The scoundrel felt the gaze, and lifting his head, a look of total trust passed from Vin's blues to Buck's. The sharpshooter nodded his head once.

"...Bucklin'."

A grateful smile faltered on Buck's lips as he felt Vin pull his hand away from Chris's, his gaze never leaving the rogue.

"I got it. Go get some rest." The ladies man managed, knowing how much faith was being placed in him by his young friend.

Josiah, who had watched the exchange from the shadows, stepped forward to help when he saw the sharpshooter stand on shaky legs. Once again he'd witnessed the strong ties that bound them all together and was overcome by the moment. Moving in front of the swaying body, the preacher said nothing. He carefully placed Vin's arm back into it's sling and guided the weary peacekeeper to the blankets in the corner of the room.

Vin felt a blanket placed gently over him, and looked up into clear eyes. Grabbing his arm, he pulled the older man closer. "Pray hard, preacher...pray real hard" The whispered words tore at Josiah's heart and the lump that formed quickly in his throat stopped him from answering the plea in any way other than a nod and a small smile.

"Thanks." The drooping eyelids closed immediately after the word was uttered.

Straightening to his full height, the oldest of the seven swallowed hard and went in search of his bible.

- - - - - - -

The morning dawned brightly, and for the men in the small cabin, it couldn't have come quick enough. The night had been hard, with each of them taking a turn at sitting with Chris. Wiping at his fevered body with cool cloths, all the while holding onto his hand with vice like grips for fear of losing him. None of them really knew why they were doing it, but did it anyway.

Their injured leader had a worse night than any of them. They managed to get a little water past his lips, but nowhere near enough. Sweat seemed to stream from every pore in the blond's body, as his fever raged. One minute he would be lying still and then suddenly would need holding down as the fever grew higher.

Early morning sunlight streamed through the small window, casting light and shadows into the room, and across the five pensive faces seated at the table. Plates of food hardly touched lay in front of each man as their eyes stared straight ahead, seeing nothing.

Nathan's eyes flickered now and again to the man sitting in the chair at Chris's bedside. His sling once more discarded; the tracker held the blond's hand in a death grip. Vin relieved Josiah when dawn was still being born, not taking no for an answer. The healer heard hardly a murmur when he'd changed the bandage around Vin's head and smeared more rub on his shoulder. He'd also managed to get the sharpshooter to eat some biscuits and griddle cakes, and drink half a mug of coffee; it wasn't enough, but it was something.

The only time the former slave remembered seeing any other emotion on the Texan's face other than sorrow, was when the healer was tending to Ezra's 'problem area'; and even then it was just the slightest lift of his lip in one corner. No twinkling blue eyes, or dimples that normally came with a Tanner smile, just a small tweak and then the somber look returned as his eyes fell on the fevered man on the bed.

Ezra's eyes followed Nathan's gaze from Vin to Chris.

"Maybe when this is over, Vin will enlighten us on his firm belief that holding Chris's hand helped in some way." The southerner mused.

JD only nodded, and Josiah continued to stare at his plate as the gambler continued. "It's a strange bond indeed that our two associates share...hard to fathom."

Buck slowly raised his eyes, blinking as the sunlight hit his face. "Hell, I'm not even gonna try and figure it out." Grabbing his mug of coffee, he stood and turned his head to look behind him at the two friends, one holding a silent vigil, the other fighting a deadly battle. "All I know is, it's working right now...Chris is still with us...that's good enough for me."

Four heads nodded their agreement and the room lapsed into silence once more. Buck ran a hand through his hair, the tension in the small cabin beginning to eat into his heart. He turned to look at the scene at Chris's bedside again, staring long and hard at the dipped head of the Texan as he snoozed. He moved his eyes finally, to rest on the too still form of his oldest friend, fighting for his life on the bed. Pushing himself forward, he headed for the door.

"Need some air." He managed, before taking his mug of coffee out into the welcome fresh breeze.

- - - - - - -

Vin could hear the muffled voices of his friends at the other side of the cabin, but couldn't seem to muster the strength to listen. He wanted to concentrate his energy solely on the force of the hand that connected him to Chris. He could sense the battle going on within the fevered man, and wanted him to know he wasn't fighting alone. He reached for a cloth and soaked it in a bowl of water resting on the bed. Squeezing out the excess, he placed it on the blond's hot forehead.

The warm sun beat down on the gunslinger's face, but he figured he was lying near a tree as he felt the coolness of a shadow hitting his forehead. Aside from the constant throbbing in his leg, he felt light and content. He wanted to lay there forever, but knew that pretty soon he'd have to gather his family and head home. He frowned, something didn't sit right with the thought of riding along with Vin and Sarah and Adam. Dismissing the feeling, he ran his tongue over too dry lips, grunting at the dryness in his throat.

Vin watched the emotions as they crossed the flushed features, wondering, not for the first time, what was happening in the blond's fevered mind. Where was he? What would it take to reach him and bring him back to where he belonged? Seeing the edge of the dry tongue appearing to lick parched lips, Tanner picked up the cup that was left within his reach by an ever vigilant Nathan.

"Hang on while I lift his head." The sharpshooter turned a grateful look to Josiah, watching as the preacher moved the wet cloth from the gunslinger's forehead and lifted his head gently.

Reaching over, Vin grunted when the movement pulled on his bruised shoulder. Putting the cup to the blond's lips, he tilted it a little and watched a few precious drops slide into the fevered man's mouth. After waiting to see if the liquid was going to stay, the tracker repeated the action twice more, relieved beyond words when the water was swallowed down by the prone man.

The preacher gently placed the hot head back on the pillow and turned to the Texan.

"Mebbe them prayers o' yers are workin'."

Vin's drawled words made the older man smile. "Reckon He's being bombarded with prayers concerning this man right now."

Both men smiled before their faces turned serious again. Reaching for the cloth, Josiah wet it once more and returned it to the hot forehead.

- - - - - - -

Leaning against the wall, Buck sipped at his lukewarm coffee. His eyes scanned Chris's property, taking in the wide, open spaces he knew his old friend craved from time to time.

Taking another gulp from his mug, his gaze suddenly settled on the fresh timber of the barn. A heavy feeling entered his chest, his breath catching in his throat as he caught sight of the debris strewn around the new building. He pushed himself away from the wall and walked slowly towards the sturdy structure. Stepping over broken pieces of wood, he was painfully reminded of the accident that now threatened his oldest and truest friend's life.

Stepping through the open doorway, Wilmington's eyes found more broken timber littering the ground. He walked further into the barn, and spied something laying abandoned in the dirt. Going down on his hunkers, he picked up Chris's hat, slapping the dust from it absently, his heart suddenly leaping at the thought of how the hat had got there.

His eyes scanning again, he reached over and picked up a foot long piece of wood, jagged at one end where it had obviously snapped apart. He swallowed and looked up, squinting into the sunlight. Standing up, he studied the almost non-existent roof. Only three beams remained intact, the rest were hanging at odd angles, or had fallen to the ground. His eyes moving to the top of the ladder, he dropped the piece of timber and placed his friend's hat on the tree stump that had been used as a base for sawing wood.

His face turned thoughtful, a spark coming into his eyes as an idea was born. Shrugging out of his jacket, he placed it over Larabee's hat and walked determinedly from the barn, stooping down and picking up a hammer as he went.

- - - - - - -

Ezra walked around the small cabin, his feet taking him everywhere but to the corner of the small home where the bed was situated. He was finding it increasingly hard to imagine what would happen if their leader was taken from them. Moving out of JD's way, as the young sheriff prepared to return to town to check on things, his hip caught the corner of the table under the window. He winced at the pain in his buttock, and closed his eyes until the pain dwindled to a dull throb. His eyes opened and immediately fell on a whiskey bottle, sitting forgotten on the table. Picking it up slowly, he scrutinized the label, a twinkle appearing in his amused green gaze.

"Mr Tanner, you owe me a bottle of whiskey."

Catching a movement outside the window, his attention shifted and he put the bottle down. He watched as Josiah passed by, his shirt sticky with perspiration. His eyes followed the preacher to the water pump, where the older man splashed his hot face.

Frowning, he suddenly realized he hadn't seen either Josiah or Buck for a couple of hours now. He'd helped JD clean up the breakfast things, and then the two had prepared something to cook later. He rolled his eyes at the thought of how domesticated he had become, and suddenly craved a warm cooked meal at the hotel.

Stretching his neck, in an effort to see what was going on outside, his eyebrows raised as he drew his head back. A thoughtful look passed across his face, while he registered what he'd seen and a small smile appeared on his lips.

"What a grand idea."

Leaving a quizzical JD behind him, the gambler exited the cabin.

- - - - - - -

JD, armed with a long list of supplies to bring from the clinic, had been gone for two hours, when Vin first noticed how quiet the cabin had become. Looking up at Nathan, who was tending to Chris, he watched for a moment before he spoke. "Where'r the others?"

The healer raised his eyes, his hands stilling on the bloodied cloth. "Why don't you go find out?" He had no idea where they were either, but liked the idea of the sharpshooter getting some air. The pale tracker hadn't moved from Chris's side all morning.

"Can't do that." The Texan shook his head, grateful that the dizziness he'd suffered the day before seemed to have passed.

"I'm almost done with the new bandage, I think I can manage on my own for ten minutes." The former slave motioned his head towards the door. "Go on and get some air. Stretch your legs and get yourself a drink."

"Anythin' else?" Vin raised an eyebrow as he half teased the healer. The amused twitching of his lip ceased, his blue gaze turning haunted as it fell on the clasped hands on the bed.

Jackson saw where the tracker's eyes rested, as he finished tying the bandage. Straightening up, his face turned sincere. "Go on, I'm not gonna let him go anywhere." The healer urged. "I won't let go Vin, the place can burn down around me and I swear I won't let go." The brown eyes held the truth as they bore into Vin's.

Dipping his head, the tracker thought on Nathan's words. He really liked the idea of feeling fresh air on his face and cool water sliding down his throat. He wouldn't mind knowing where the others had slithered off to either. Feeling the healer at his side, he looked up into caring brown eyes.

"Alright...ten minutes...then I'll be back."

"Fine." The healer smiled, pleased that Vin was taking his advice. His hand replaced the tracker's, and he raised his eyebrows, looking stern as he tugged gently at the sling hanging loosely around Tanner's neck.

"Ah hell, Nathan..."

The healer raised his brows higher and waited; he wasn't going to lose this fight.

Emitting a heavy sigh, the Texan gave in and put his arm inside the sling. "See ya in ten minutes." Glancing over at his fevered friend, he moved heavy feet towards the door.

Nathan watched the sharpshooter exit the cabin, pleased that he seemed to be steadier on his legs. Sitting down in the vacated chair, his eyes filled with worry as they settled on Larabee's frighteningly still form.

- - - - - - -

Standing on the porch, Vin was immediately aware of alien sounds. He could hear the birds singing in the sky, and the wind whistling through the trees. The horses were whinnying and snorting and he could almost smell the heat of the sun. But there were other man made sounds that made the tracker frown; a hammer hitting a nail...a saw cutting through timber.

Turning slowly towards the noise, he couldn't stop the sharp intake of breath at what he saw. Walking slowly towards the barn, his eyes surveyed the scene, a warm feeling coursing through his veins. He continued on unsteady legs as emotion threatened to drag him to his knees.

There, on top of the barn was Buck Wilmington, bare chested and sweating, banging nails into wood with a hammer. Ezra was standing beside him, holding the timber in place, his jacket discarded and his frilly shirt sleeves rolled up.

Walking through the open door, he blinked away moisture as his eyes settled on Josiah Sanchez, his shirt stuck to his body. The oldest of the seven was busy sawing timber, until he sensed a presence and his eyes found Vin. He stopped sawing and stood the tool against the tree stump. Smiling, he walked towards the Texan and placed a hand on his back.

"Vin, nice to see you getting some fresh air."

"Nathan's idea." The Texan gulped again, wondering what had made him suddenly so emotional.

"Don't get any ideas about coming up here!" Raising his eyes, Tanner found Buck grinning down at him. "Don't think I could stand the smell of that stuff you got on your shoulder." The ladies man's eyes twinkled wickedly. "Reckon there's no need for you to worry about that bounty on your head for a while, Tanner. They'd get within fifty feet and pass out!"

Fighting the urge to smile at the rogue's joke, the sharpshooter cast his eyes over the beams the two men stood on. "Watch yer footin'." The warning held a note of regret, and something else. A look passed across the Texan's face before he dipped his head. Nodding once, he turned away, heading for the barn door, two concerned dark blue eyes following his progress.

Watching the lean bounty hunter as he stopped at the water pump, Buck chewed at his bottom lip. Something struck a chord in his memory at the look that he'd just seen in Tanner's face. "Here, I'll be right back." Handing Ezra the hammer, he walked carefully towards the ladder, his eyes never leaving Vin.

"Wonderful, you start this 'building a barn' mission and abscond at the earliest opportunity." Rolling his eyes, the gambler balanced himself and began hammering.

- - - - - - -

Testing his leg warily, Chris was pleased when it felt strangely numb. He was finally on his feet, and ready to explore the caves that had caught his eye. Favoring his hurt limb, he trod carefully towards the rocks, waving to Adam and Sarah as he passed them. He couldn't see Vin anywhere, but assumed the tracker had found somewhere quiet to enjoy the open air.

Reaching the mouth of the cave, he leaned forward to peer inside, blinking until his eyes grew accustomed to the dark. His curious mind sending him inside the cave, he walked carefully along the passage that seemed to grow narrower by the second. Finding himself in a clearing, he turned around slowly on the spot, until he faced the way he had come in. His heart leapt when he saw two exits, and panic rose inside him as he tried to figure out which was the right one.

Nathan dabbed water onto the dry lips, squeezing the clean cloth over Larabee's mouth in the hope that a few drops would find their way in. He knew the blond was reaching a crisis, the fevered mind seemed to be pondering on something. Startled as a heavy breath left the gunslinger's body, he stood, his eyes never leaving the deathly still face. Opening his fingers from around Chris's hand, he quickly closed them again, before the contact was broken. He leaned forward, almost afraid of what he would find as he tentatively placed two fingers against the blond's neck.

The gunslinger's eyes darted from one exit to the other, while he tried to figure out which was the right one to take. He could see a faint light at the end of both, but had no idea where he would come out if he took the wrong one. He wished Vin was with him, the tracker would be a great help right about now. But Tanner wasn't there, and so he had to work it out for himself. Closing his eyes, he concentrated on channelling his thoughts, slowly opening them again when he felt a calmness settle over him.

His sea green gaze rested on the right hand tunnel, as though an unseen force had guided him that way. Stepping forwards, he limped slowly through the dark tunnel, wondering why his leg suddenly seemed to hurt more than it did earlier. Walking into sunlight, his face broke into a wide grin when he was met by the sound of his son giggling and splashing in the water.

Nathan sat back heavily in the chair and blew out a relieved breath. His fingers had found a pulse that was stronger than he'd expected. He wiped sweat from his own brow with his sleeve, suddenly feeling light headed. Looking down at the flushed, handsome face, he allowed himself a small smile. Squeezing the hand still held tightly in his own, the healer realised that Chris had just won a major battle, but knew the war was not yet won.

Gently easing his arm from the sling, Vin pumped some water and splashed his aching face. The sensation of the cool liquid on his hot skin brought a small contented smile to his lips. Rubbing his hand over the stubble on his chin, he realised a shave was well overdue.

Even though he had his back to the barn, he knew Buck was approaching, he could feel it. Just like he could sense the rogue's piercing blue eyes boring into him. Turning around to face the older man, he nodded once and handed him a cup.

Accepting the offered vessel with a nod of thanks, the tall man stepped up to the pump and filled it. He gulped down the water, slapping his lips and sighing deeply as he pulled it away from his mouth.

"Now that hit the spot." He raised his eyebrows to the sharpshooter, holding the cup out towards him.

Shaking his head, the tracker took a step back.

"Had some."

Noticing the sling hanging loosely around Vin's neck, Buck tapped it lightly. "Shouldn't this have something in it?"

The Texan rolled his eyes at the stern words and unyielding glare. "Can't do anythin' with m' arm in a hammock."

The grumbling voice had no effect on the rogue. "Nathan gave you that sling for a damn good reason, Vin." He held up the cloth and waited, staring uncompromisingly at the tracker.

Rolling his eyes again, while chuffing out a short huff of frustrated air, the sharpshooter glared at the older man. Then he slid his arm stiffly into the support. "Reckon there's too many nursemaids roundabouts."

Buck chuckled, the stern look finally leaving his face. "Never known anyone to shy away from help like you do, Tanner."

Vin's face wrinkled as he rubbed his upper arm, feeling the ache that had settled in his shoulder. "Jist used t' takin' care o' m'self, is all."

"Yeah well, you got friends to look out for you now." The rogue brought the words home with a decisive nod.

A short, almost uneasy silence followed, where unspoken words sparked the atmosphere.

"Gonna head inside." Vin gestured towards the cabin with a nod of his head. "Nathan'll likely be needin' help."

Turning to leave, his tense body stiffened further, as Buck's raised voice hit his back.

"You've probably seen things that'd make my guts spill at the thought of 'em. But when it comes to blame and guilt, I wrote the book." The ladies man knew he'd almost blown his chance as he saw Vin turn to leave. He couldn't quite find the words to begin the conversation he wanted to have with the Texan. But the words spouted from his mouth in one long rush, out of desperation, as he saw the sharpshooter's back retreating. His urgent gaze watched as Vin's back stiffened. He breathed an inaudible sigh of relief as the tracker turned back to look at him quizzically.

"You know what I'm talking about, Vin. I know that look I saw on your face back there. It's the same one I used to see every time I looked in the mirror after Sarah and Adam...." The voice shook on the last few words; his own remembered emotions surfacing. Feelings that still ran through him from time to time, even now, pushed themselves into his heart. He swallowed hard, pushing the feelings away. "If that wasn't guilt on your face, I'll eat JD's hat."

"Yer crazy!" Vin dropped his head, looking at his feet for a second. "I gotta get back, Nathan said ten minutes." He raised his head, his heart sinking at the determined look on the older man's face.

"He'll manage...this needs to be said." Reaching for Vin's arm, Buck was even more certain in his beliefs when the tracker shrugged him off sharply. "Why are you blaming yourself, Vin? What happened to make you feel this way?" he persisted, not willing to let his downcast friend suffer the way he had.

Vin opened his mouth to speak, his stance defensive. "Like I said..."

"You're real good at hidin' Tanner, but them damn eyes give you away every time. Talk to me..." This time, Buck managed to get a firm hold of the Texan's arm, and held on with a grip of steel. His eyes bore into Vin's dipped head, "Did seeing the barn again remind you, huh?" The head remained bent over. "What happened yesterday? What happened to put that look on your face?" The voice pleaded for a response, the bearer of the voice desperate in his bid to help rid his friend of the feelings he harbored.

Vin gulped hard, was it only yesterday? He lifted his eyes and swallowed again as he met Buck's intense blue gaze. "I slipped...he was comin' t' help me...the roof collapsed."

Relieved beyond belief that he'd got a response, the older man tried not to let it show. Releasing his grip on the tracker's arm, he put his head on one side. "You think that's given you the right to feel guilty?" The ladies man raised an eyebrow, keeping his voice level. His stomach was flipping over as he kept his eyes locked on the Texan's.

"The right?" Vin asked finally, his voice not far off a growl as he looked at the man before him in disbelief.

"Yeah, the right." Serious blue eyes continued to bore into the tracker's puzzled face.

"You gotta earn the right to feel guilty. You wanna know how I know?" Leaning against the pump, he folded his arms and crossed one foot over the other. Seeing the sharpshooter start to bristle he spoke quickly. "If you get off that high Texan horse of yours, I'll tell you."

Buck tried not to smile as blue eyes sparked at him, but Vin said nothing. Glad that he had the younger man's attention, without feeling a wayward fist, yet, his face turned serious as he remembered a time from his not too distant past.

"One day, when the guilt of what happened to Adam and Sarah was burying me deep in a bottle of whiskey. I found myself in the middle of nowhere, with only a horse for company. That's when I suddenly thought long and hard about what I was carrying on my shoulders."

Vin said nothing, as he listened to Buck's words, spoken low and with a hint of sadness.

The rogue continued; his eyes far away as they remembered. "I hadn't seen Chris for a long time. Oh, I knew where he was, I made sure of that. It was just hard, when he kept pushing me away." He shook his head and sighed. "They were bad times, Vin, really bad. But this day, I sat on a rock...and thought. I mean, really thought about what had happened and how guilty I felt." He looked up at the afternoon sky, holding his palms up and shrugging as he turned his dark blue gaze back to Vin. "Then it hit me. I didn't start the fire. I wasn't responsible for what happened to Sarah and Adam...somebody else was. I had no right to feel guilty. I was concentrating on my feelings and feeling sorry for myself, wallowing in my own self-pity. I hadn't earned the right to feel guilty over the fire, and I was damn happy to give up that right. All I did was stop Chris coming back when he was supposed to. I regret that, and I will 'til the day I die, but ya know what?"

Vin shook his head as Buck raised his brows at the question.

"Something else hit me. I hadn't thought about Chris for days; and the whole time, out there on that rock, I'd been thinking about myself. I was being selfish, soothing my own feelings. Thinking about how I felt, how I was going to be able to stand it."

"But y' were feelin' bad 'cos o' Chris."

Buck nodded. "That's true, but my thoughts kinda lost their way. I'll tell you something though, my feelings changed that day. I still felt regret, wondering what would have been different if we'd gone home when we were meant to. Hell, I still do. But like I said, I didn't start that fire, Vin. It wasn't me who stole Chris's life from him...it was someone else. But what I knew I had to do was go and find Chris again and try and help him."

"And did ya?" Vin had heard a lot about the aftermath of the fire, but mostly from Chris.

"Yeah, and he beat the hell out of me." The ladies man answered wryly. "Can't say I enjoyed it, but somehow it made me feel better."

Vin matched Buck's wry smile.

"So you see? You got no reason to shoulder any blame. It was an accident, nothing more." Cocking his head and lifting his eyebrows the rogue added "Now, if you'd told me you pushed Chris off the barn roof, then you'd have earned that right." He watched as the Texan smiled, and this one reached his eyes. "I'm also willing to bet all you're thoughts aren't on yourself right now. Hell, I can see the energy being sapped from your body Vin, like you're letting Chris suck it out of you."

The tracker ducked his head again, as both mans thoughts turned to their gravely ill friend.

"I may not have been there when Chris fell, but I sure as hell have been here since." Buck adjusted his stance, wishing that Vin would raise his eyes. "Do you think as soon as Chris wakes up he's gonna throw an accusing glance at you? Well, if you do, I've got news for you...Larabee knows it was an accident, and when he opens them killer eyes of his, all you'll see in them is friendship...and I'm willing to bet, trust." He watched the tracker's shoulders raise and lower as the younger man took a deep shuddering breath.

Buck lowered his head and turned it to the side, trying to find eye contact with the tracker. "Tell me you listened to what I've told you, Vin. 'Cos I don't want you to suffer the way I did. Put it behind you, Pard. You're wastin' strength on that shit...use it to help Chris get well." He lifted his head again. "You slipped, Chris came to help...of his own free will...and the roof collapsed. That's the story, the way I see it. How about you?"

Vin finally looked up at Buck with sad blue eyes and shrugged. "Reckon yer right, Bucklin. Jist brought back memories when I saw y'all on the roof."

The older man smiled and sighed in relief. "Yeah, well the roof's not your problem any more, it's ours. Your job is to get back in there and do whatever it is you've been doing." He tapped Vin's chest lightly with his finger, his face serious once more. "And don't hang your head any more. You've got no reason." His voice turned husky with emotion suddenly, as he thought of his oldest friend fighting for his life inside the small cabin. Grasping the tracker's shoulders gently but solidly, the bigger man continued. "In fact, right now, there's no man I trust more with Chris's life than Vin Tanner." His voice cracked and he turned his head away quickly, feeling the tears stinging his eyes.

Vin gulped, blinking back his own emotion. "I'm tryin'...Bucklin." The soft words were almost inaudible as the late afternoon breeze picked them up and blew them away.

The rogue only nodded, his eyes telling the tracker all that his voice couldn't at that moment, when emotion was too overwhelming.

"Josiah, please tell me the words you just uttered were not blasphemous, because, right now, we need to stay in God's good graces."

Ezra's wryly spoken words met both man's ears, and as two sets of watery blue eyes met, their lips turned up into smiles.

"Better get back, and keep those two from killing each other!" Buck motioned towards the barn with his head.

Vin nodded. "Reckon I should go help Nathan."

Chuckling, the rogue nodded agreement. "Yeah, he's gonna be bellowing soon, loud enough for the roof to come off...don't wanna have to rebuild that one too!"

Smiling, the tracker nodded and turned to leave. Feeling a hand on his shoulder he looked up into soulful blue eyes. Neither uttered a word, everything already having been said.

Pushing his lips tightly together, the rogue nodded once, and released his grip, turning away and walking back towards the barn.

Vin stood still, watching the big man's back, wondering if Chris really knew how much of a true friend he had in Buck Wilmington.

- - - - - - -

Closing the door behind him, Vin leaned against it, closing his eyes against the familiar scene of his best friend lying near death on the bed. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Buck's words were circling around in his head, and he had the start of a pounding headache. Pushing aside thoughts of himself, he grit his teeth determinedly. Buck was right, this wasn't the time to concern himself with how he felt. This was the time to help Chris, and keep him alive whatever it took.

"You alright, Vin?"

Nathan's voice broke into the tracker's thoughts and opening his eyes slowly, the Texan nodded. Moving away from the door, he walked towards the bed, steeling himself for the sight he'd grown accustomed to but one which still filled him with dread. He raked his eyes over Chris's fevered form, before flicking his gaze to Nathan.

"They're rebuildin' the roof."

The healer relinquished Chris's hand to Vin as the sharpshooter naturally took over the job. He didn't answer the Texan's statement, just held his eyes for a second or two before pushing the younger man gently into the chair. He moved away to tend to Chris's needs, pleased to see that a little color had returned to the sharpshooter's cheeks. His heart flipped with fear, as he pulled away the sheet from the blond's broken leg. Every time he changed the bandages, and cleaned the wound, he hoped to see improvement. He was doing everything in his power, everything that he knew how to do, but he just didn't know if it would be enough.

"How is he?"

Vin's question made the former slave sigh. "Same, but hasn't moved much. He seems more settled than he was...fever's still high." Gently unraveling the bandages, Nathan wanted to close his eyes. He was almost too afraid to look to see if the infection was any better, or any worse.

"How long d'ya think b'fore...b'fore we know?" The tracker's voice trembled slightly. His blue eyes were watching Nathan's face carefully, for any signs of things the healer didn't want to voice.

Concerned brown eyes turned to look at Chris's pale face before Nathan shook his head. "Wish I knew for sure. But I'm thinking by tomorrow we'll know one way or the other."

Vin nodded but said nothing, squeezing Chris's hand in the hope that the injured man would get the message, and hold on. He could see the truth reflected in the soulful brown eyes. He was grateful for Nathan's honesty; it was one of his best virtues. His gaze moved to the dark hands as they started to unravel the final layer of bandages. He told himself that the amount of blood covering the once white cloth was a good thing. It was a sign that the body was trying to cleanse itself. His eyes darted to the healer as he spoke again.

"If the infection starts to clear up, I'd be happier. I can stitch the wound and Chris would stop losing so much blood. Then we gotta hope he has strength left to fight."

The tracker didn't answer at first, as he moved his eyes to rest on his friend's still face. Remembering the words they had spoken two nights ago, his heart began to beat faster.

"He's gotta want t' come back, Nathan."

- - - - - - -

Green eyes squinted into the afternoon sunlight; it was getting late. His gaze swiveled to the two figures swimming in the cool lagoon. They'd been in there for a long time and Chris frowned, trying to recall when they'd last come to shore. The frown deepened as he searched his memory, not being able to recall his wife and son ever being at his side that day.

Limping towards the water, he stopped, suddenly very aware of the blue depths not far from him. He didn't want to get any closer to the edge; the stretch of water he was looking at seemed to have it in for him. Twice that day, he'd been in danger of being swallowed up by the lagoon; there was no way it was getting another chance.

Settling his gaze on his laughing family, a look of contentment shone from the green eyes. The happy smile that kissed his lips slowly disappeared as he opened his mouth to call to them.

"Sarah! Adam! Time to head on home!" His voice seemed to echo around the lagoon eerily. The words appeared almost musical and soft, although he thought he had called out loudly.

Wincing as he put too much weight on his injured leg, he watched as his family stopped playing and looked towards him. His heart skipped a beat at the look on Sarah's face, wondering why she suddenly looked so forlorn. They could come back here whenever they chose to, so it couldn't have been because she wanted to stay.

Raising his arm, the blond beckoned to the two figures, who were still not moving from the shimmering lagoon. He shifted his weight onto his uninjured leg, putting his hands on his hips as he grew impatient.

Slowly, Adam and Sarah began to move, and as he watched, Chris's mouth fell open and his brows drew together in a confused frown. Instead of moving towards him, his family were moving away, heading for the opposite bank. Rendered speechless, the gunslinger stood watching, as they reached the other side and pulled themselves from the water.

"What the hell's going on?" The blond's whispered question was unanswered as his frown deepened. "...and where the hell is Vin?"

- - - - - - -

"I'm right here, Cowboy." The gentle Texan drawl were the first words spoken for a long time. The tracker sensed the turmoil Chris was feeling, and heard a silent call for help.

Nathan looked up as he pulled the sheet gently over Chris's leg. "Did you say something, Vin?"

"No...nothin'." The Texan squeezed the gunslinger's clammy hand reassuringly as he answered the healer. It was easier not to try and explain the strong senses he was receiving. It was more important that he concentrated on them, and acted on what he was feeling.

Suddenly realizing his mind had wandered off before he'd seen the last bandage pulled from Chris's leg, the tracker looked at Nathan with a question in his eyes. "How'd it look?"

Jackson sighed in mock impatience as he put his head to one side. "I knew you weren't listening to me."

"What d'ya mean?" Tanner frowned in confusion. "Ya told me?"

"Yeah, I told you." Nathan picked up a cloth from a basin of water and placed it on the blond's forehead. Looking up into inquiring blue eyes, he started to smile. "It didn't look any worse...which is good." He watched the Texan's lips turn slightly upwards. "But it didn't look any better, which ain't so good."

The smile that had been threatening on the tracker's lips died immediately. "Oh."

"We gotta have faith, Vin." The former slave grabbed some supplies and settled himself on his knees in front of the tracker. "Right now, other than my limited medical know how...faith is all we got." He reached for the bandage around Tanner's head, beginning to unwind it.

The younger man's blue eyes turned sincere. "Nothin' wrong with yer healin', Nate. If I had the choice 'tween y' and some high falutin' Doctor, I'd choose ya every time." Vin saw the water appear in the soft brown eyes. "You've got it in yer heart. Ya care, an' that's what makes yer healin' special. I'd trust ya with m' life again an' again...Chris'll never be in better hand's than he is right now." The tremor in the Texan voice grew too strong, strangling the chance of any further words. The blue gaze turned misty, as watery emotion filled the sharpshooter's eyes.

Blinking away the moisture, Nathan pulled away the last of the bandage. He placed a hand on Vin's uninjured shoulder, looking at him intently. "You sure know how to put a sentence together, Vin, despite that damn drawl!" He saw a twinkle appear in the younger man's eyes, only to watch it disappear after only a moment. "I thank you for them words, and hope like hell I can live up to them."

"If he's meant t' stay with us, then he will." The Texan answered adamantly. "Just need t' give ol' Chris here a helpin' hand I reckon."

"Well, he sure is getting that, Vin...he sure is getting that." The two men didn't move for a few seconds, the spell being broken as the cabin door opened.

Three tired men dragged their weary bodies into the small room, two of them dropping into the first seats they came to.

Buck walked towards the bed, eyeing the two men who had cleared their throats as he and the others had entered. "We interrupt anything?" His eyes danced a little at the question, as he effortlessly moved into Wilmington teasing mode.

"Nope, I was just telling Vin here that his head's looking good." Nathan began to clean around the neat stitches on the tracker's forehead.

"That's real good news." The rogue moved to the bed, all teasing forgotten as he looked down at his oldest friend. "How's Chris doing?"

"About the same." Sighing, the healer reached for a clean bandage and began winding it around the tracker's head. "But his leg's no worse."

"Well that's good news ain't it?" Buck sat on the edge of the bed, placing a hand on the blond's arm.

"I hope so." The answer from the former slave was non-committal as he rose to his feet. "We still need to keep the fever down, it keeps going way too high."

Nodding slowly, Buck stood and reluctantly broke contact with Chris's skin. "It got too dark outside, can't see a damn thing. Didn't wanna fall..." he broke off, realising what he was about to say. Darting his eyes to the tracker, he saw the slim body tense up and the head dip. "Sorry, Vin..."

"...s'okay...Buck...lin..." he replied, his voice tired and raspy as his mind conjured up a picture of Chris's broken body.

Ezra's weary voice drifted over to them. "The soup is warming, if anyone is interested."

"Hell yeah!" rubbing his hands together, the rogue drew alongside Vin's chair. "Hope that head's down 'cos you're tired or do we need to talk some more?" The words were only loud enough for the Texan to hear.

Raising his head slowly, Vin looked up into Buck's, knowing face. He realized the rogue was too shrewd to lie to. "Jist need some time, Bucklin. I heard ya clear 'nuf."

"Alright then, just making sure." The older man's stern tone was softened by the smile that followed. "Now, I gotta get me some food, before JD polishes it all off. Damn, that boy can eat!" He cuffed Vin gently and moved to the table, grabbing a lantern before he sat down.

It was then that Vin realized how dark it had become. The night had drawn in suddenly, or so it seemed to the tracker. He moved uncomfortably in his seat, sucking in a breath when a sharp pain sliced into his shoulder.

"Go eat something, Vin. Someone else can take over for a while." Nathan's keen eyes didn't miss a thing when one of his friends was hurting. "Then I'll rub your shoulder again."

"They've been workin' like dogs outside, Nate. Can't ask 'em t' do more." The Texan turned sharply when he felt a hand touch his, where it rested in Chris's.

"I'm never too tired to help a friend." The clear blue of Josiah's eyes shone with kindness and sincerity. "Go and eat."

Tanner couldn't argue, he was too tired and hungry. However much he wanted to stay with Chris, he knew he needed a break from time to time. Not only to eat, but to visit the privy, or stretch his legs. With a grateful smile, he stood slowly, stiff from the time he'd been immobile in his seat. "Be right back."

"Take your time, Vin. Play some cards; talk with the others. You need to relax." Josiah's advice was answered with the shake of a shaggy head.

"S'okay, jist need food. An' mebbe I'll close m' eyes fer a spell."

"Sounds like a good idea." The preacher sat in the chair Vin had vacated, and turned his attention to Chris. "Evenin' Brother, " he whispered, suddenly missing the blond's angry glare, and his amused smile. Sharp green eyes sprang to life in his mind's eye and he swallowed hard. Lifting the clenched limp hand, he began to pray. "Lord, deliver him safely back into our fold." He bent his head, and closed his eyes. "Please God, don't take him from us. I'll do whatever you ask of me...just let this man live." The hushed words were heard by no-one on earth. The four other men were sat around the table eating and talking quietly. The preacher reached for the cloth on the blond's forehead, pulling it from the clammy skin. Dipping it into the bowl at his side, Josiah wrung it out and began wiping the sweat from his leader's body.

Next......