# 2 Vision Quest

Characters: All Seven. Also, there are additional original characters, the Wild Bunch, and the MCAT team. <Guest appearance by OW Chris and Vin>

Disclaimer: This is entirely a work of fiction, for entertainment purposes only, based on the characters from "The Magnificent Seven." We don’t own them, but if we did we would run away with ‘em and never be seen again. CBS and Co., Trilogy Entertainment, and MGM had ‘em first and do not want to give ‘em away. We only play at this for fun and do not make any money doing it. No infringement of any copyrights is intended. This is strictly a piece of fiction. Any references to locations or people are only for story use and are not intended to depict any real place or person.

MCAT AU: MCAT (Major Crimes and Acts of Terrorism) Yes, it has action, and yes it's Het. Further background and information on the characters of MCAT and the Larabee 7 families can be found @ The Magnificent Seventh Heaven website.

MCAT: Turbulent Transitions is the foundation series for this AU is complete.

MCAT: Strength & Solidarity – Series of stories which center on the Seven's intrinsic bonds of friendship and brotherhood, forces which have no boundaries.

# 2 -Vision Quest Summary* - Chris's perceptions of his beliefs are challenged as he seeks out the reason behind the vicious attacks against his family, JD, Hannah Sanchez, and the entire MCAT Unit. With a little help from the past and Tanner's Visions, seven men race against time to solve the mystery before it's too late. How far is Chris willing to go to stop the evil which destroyed his past and now threatens those he holds closest to his heart?

Acknowledgments: Our heartfelt thanks for the suggestions and feedback go to Sue, Jo, Jan, Sarai, and Tonny. They lent their eyes, ears, and their friendship to this project. Y'all are appreciated.

To Jan, for the long conversations working on plot strategies and her written contributions to this story.

To Tonny who shared her time to edit and beta while teaching a few lessons in the process.

To Bountyhunter'slady for the awesome collage she created for Shades of Gray/ Vision Quest.

Notes: Any mistakes are ours. The original characters created for this series belong to the authors who created them. Glossary of Law Enforcement Terms used in this series.

Intense heat blistered exposed skin as a fireball erupted from the blast, raining blazing chunks of wood down on the MCAT agents as they impacted with the hard ground. The initial intake of air from the explosion sucked the breath from their lungs, then came roaring back as a shockwave that felt as if an eighteen-wheeler was driven over their bodies. A thunderous reverberation assaulted their eardrums, leaving a trickle of blood as the only evidence of its passing when the violent release of energy washed over them.

Raphael and Alex were the first to reach the fallen agents; Justin and Guy were hot on their heels. They immediately began to remove any burning debris that endangered their teammates to prevent further injury. Seeing the ball of fire light up the sky, Doctor 'Bones' Metfield wasted no time in driving the MAU to the scene. Bones, Kat, and Greg joined the others in tending to their injured. Bones quickly took charge of triage and began issuing orders to the agents.

Nathan Jackson was the closest to the site of the blast and the first man Bones examined. The blistering on the black man's face, as well as the multiple small abrasions in which slivers of wood were imbedded into skin, particularly around the eyes concerned him. He did what he could for the injured man and then called for assistance. "Kat, get over here and stay with Jackson. Hold this gauze over his eyes, while I see to the other agents. Alex, grab Nathan's hands and do not allow him to touch his injuries."

"Justin, when will the paramedics arrive?" he asked.

Justin had been on the phone with 9-1-1, calling for help the moment he had seen the explosion, "They're on their way, ETA is fifteen minutes."

"You better call Denver Memorial and give them a heads up. They might like to know that five MCAT agents are coming in as casualties." Bones was sure the hospital personnel would be thrilled. One injured MCAT agent was a handful, five would be a nightmare.

"Greg you've got Sanchez, and Raphael you take Standish. Nobody moves until I say so!"

Bones knelt down beside Larabee. "How many fingers am I holdin' up, Chris?"

"Damnit Bones, I'm fine," Chris protested.

"I'll be the judge of that."

Vin's use of his martial arts training during his descent from the loft allowed him to land on his feet, every bone in his body reverberating from the contact with the hard ground. He was immediately knocked to his knees from the wave of energy expelled from the blast. Sucking in air to fill his lungs, he attempted to rise. Pain ripped through his legs and back as his ears rang from the deafening noise, but he forced his body to move. Turning his head toward the front of the barn, he saw one of his visions come to life. *Chris!* A wall of flames surrounded the others. Vin was ready to enter the gates of hell and breech the fire that separated him them, but found that he was being held back by a firm hand.

"I need to see for myself damnit," Vin yelled, not at all upset that he was seemingly shouting to empty space. "Go away!"

*The Texan is with him, and I'm in charge of you.*

"Vin!" Kelli reached her husband and dropped to her knees in front of him. "Tanner you scared the hell out of me when I saw you jump from that loft." She immediately began assessing him for injuries, running her hands over his arms and legs. "Does that hurt?"

"Nothin's broke, Kel," Vin snapped, not paying attention to the unshed tears in her eyes and still irritated about being held down. "Let go of me!"

Kelli looked sharply at Vin. "Excuse me?"

"Not you, him."

"Who are you talkin' about?" Kelli was afraid his injuries may be serious. "I thought you landed on your feet, not your head."

"I'm okay, Baby." Vin attempted to get up again, but the unseen hand on his shoulder held him down. "Aww Hell," he groaned when he couldn't move. "Kel, 'm gonna need your help to get over to where the others are." There was more than one way to counter an irritating Larabee.

Kelli was not sure what to think. "You don't sound okay and you really shouldn't move until the medics look at you."

"Just do it!" Vin snapped again.

Taking a deep breath, Vin realized he was being unfair to Kelli. Stroking her cheek, he forced his body to relax. He said softly, "I’m sorry, baby. I… I need to see the others to get rid of this knot in my stomach."

"Sure, whatever you say," Kelli snapped back, but the look of fear in his eyes broke her heart. She felt the same need to see everyone with her own eyes. She helped Vin up, slipping her arm around his waist. He groaned when he put his full weight on his left leg. Leaning on his wife's shoulder for support, they slowly walked over to where Bones was attempting to treat her father. The doctor was muttering something about a stubborn ass.

"What did you say, Doctor Medfield?" Chris demanded.

"I said even a stubborn ass has enough sense not to bray at the man who's trying to help it."

"I said I was fine!"

"You're fine when I say you are, Commander," Bones retorted.

"What do you mean? Who the hell are you?"

"Larabee, you will do what I say. You need medical attention and by God you're going to get it," Bones replied angrily.

"Shut the fuck up!"

"Just how hard did you hit your head?" Bones was concerned about the MCAT Commander's hostile attitude.

"I wasn't talking to you, Doc."

"Who were you taking to then?" Bones didn't expect an answer but watched Chris's reaction.

Chris turned on his most intimidating glare and heard laughter in return.

"Tanner!"

"Dad, why are you yellin' for Vin?" Kelli knelt down beside him and helped Vin to sit next to Chris. "He's right here and accordin' to him he's fine, not that I believe it." She gave her husband her own version of the Larabee glare.

"Yeah, explain it to her, Chris," Vin decided to let his friend try to explain the unexplainable for a change.

"I wasn't. …Aww hell, never mind." He couldn't clarify something he didn't understand and was probably not really happening anyway.

"Commander, you most likely have a concussion at the very least. Do not move from this spot until the paramedics see you. Tanner, I saw you limping, stay off the leg," Bones issued his orders and moved on to examine Josiah and Ezra, who were both insisting they were fine, too.

"I'm all right, Kel, really," Chris tried to assure her, but he was beginning to doubt his own words and his sanity.

"Uh huh, that's why you have blood splatters on your face from splinters of wood, and your hands are blistered," Kelli sighed. "Why is it so damn hard for you or Vin to admit you're not supermen?"

*Vin what the hell is going on?* Chris did have the start of a helluva headache.

Larabee had heard that recognizable voice before…in the barn when…"You hit me!"

Kelli was watching the byplay between her husband, her father and lord only knew who else. "That's it! Both of you stop it! I'm not sure what the hell is goin' on and I don't really give a damn what y'all are discussin'! In case you missed the fact y'all just about got blown to kingdom come and back, let me remind you! No more 'm fine's! You will sit here calmly and let the paramedics decide how fine you are and you will listen to what they tell you." She looked around at Josiah, Ezra, and Nathan. "That goes for all of you! No more arguin'. Is that clear?" By now she was yelling so loud that no one in the immediate area missed a word.

*Sounds like a Larabee,* the man in black grinned.

*Sounds like a Tanner,* the Texan countered.

Chris looked at Vin, who just shrugged a shoulder in response. "Cease-fire, Kel, we'll wait on the paramedics. You might want to call the ranch and let them know what's going on before it leaks out to the news." He had just seen a news van pull up behind the fire truck, and feared the worse.

*You will explain all of this later Vin.* Chris shot a message to his friend. In fact, he expected him to do a lot of explaining.

When the first ambulance pulled in, Bones directed the paramedics to examine Jackson first. Nathan seemed to be the most seriously injured, and in his opinion needed to be transported immediately. The medics agreed and after checking over the other injured men deemed Josiah and Ezra stable enough to sit in the ambulance with Nathan. Chris and Vin would be transported together in the second ambulance due to arrive on site in a couple of minutes.

Kelli called the ranch. Taking Bones' advice, she gave Rain a report on what had happened. "It could have been a lot worse, Rain, we were lucky this time." Confident that Rain would keep a level head. Kelli asked her to tell the other wives. "We'll meet y'all at the hospital."

Justin approached the redhead as soon as her call was completed. "Kel, we have it covered here, you go with Vin and Chris. Please tell Vin I secured his rifle and the other weapons. After we clear this scene and forensics recovers what's left of the body Chris said was in there, I'll start on the reports and send some agents to the hospital for extra security.

"Thanks, I won't let any of 'em out of my sight and Buck's there already. If you would, call him and tell him to meet us in the ER." Kelli hurried back to where Chris and Vin were being prepared for transport to the hospital. She had a feeling it was going to be a long night at Denver Memorial.

"That was too damn close." The Texan gazed at what was left of the barn. "We could have lost all of 'em."

As soon as Buck received the call from Justin, he slipped out of JD's room to alert Mark, Selena, and Brad. Then he took the elevator up a floor to inform Director Travis of what had happened. Travis was doing well and was expected to be released in a couple of days, but the nurses insisted he use a wheelchair if he planned to go down to the ER to wait for his agents. Buck pushed the chair to the waiting area and helped Travis fill out paperwork, while they anxiously kept watch for the injured members of MCAT to arrive.

The unmistakable sound of a vehicle backing into an ambulance bay had Buck on his feet. He hurried to the big double doors. Nathan was brought in first and rushed into a waiting exam room with an Ophthalmologist ready to examine his eyes. Josiah and Ezra were bruised, blistered, and displaying a multitude of small cuts. However, they were coherent and ambulatory. They were scheduled to be taken to the next available examination rooms for a precautionary assessment of their injuries based on the report from the paramedics, along with the initial evaluation of the triage nurse.

"Mister Standish, you can wait here with your friends until I can free up a room for you." The triage nurse directed him to a comfortable chair. Then she turned her attention to Josiah. "Mister Sanchez, if you will come with me we can get started."

"Certainly, let's get this over with," Josiah answered as he followed her to the treatment room.

"The way Chris talked this was the big break we’ve been waiting for," Buck said, "Ezra, what the hell happened out there?"

Ezra did not feel right about discussing the details in front of Director Travis, at least until Chris was ready to make his own report. "Perhaps it would be best for our esteemed Commander to communicate the difficulties we encountered. Suffice to say we were extremely fortunate to have emerged from the dreadful experience reasonably intact, although we appear to be moderately battered and worn in the process."

"Larabee and Tanner," Travis questioned, "How are they?"

"Injured, but according to our resident medical expert, Doctor Medfield, nothing life-threatening," Ezra answered. "They should be coming in momentarily. The second ambulance was arriving on the scene while we were leaving."

The opening of the double doors gained the men's attention. Instead of the expected missing team members, it was Rain, Mallory, and Barbara. Ezra rose immediately to meet his obviously distressed wife and simply pulled her into an embrace. Barbara found her hands roaming over her husband's body, to assure herself he was all right. Her relief was so great, tears filled her eyes and she wept unashamedly against Ezra's chest. Ezra held her close. His own emotions rose to the surface in response to seeing his usually calm and collected wife in such a state on his behalf.

Barbara worked to control her emotions and finally exclaimed, "Thank God, you're okay. How are the others?"

Ezra included all of the ladies with his answer. "Josiah looks about the same as I do, Mallory, but he should be fine. We are both being released. Nathan is in treatment room one with the doctor now and we expect to be apprised of his condition soon. Vin and Chris are on their way in by ambulance."

"We've been assured that none of the known injuries are life-threatening." Buck attempted to direct Mallory and Rain to chairs. "We can all wait together."

"You go ahead and sit down, Mal. I'm going to see what they can tell me as a professional courtesy." Rain motioned to Buck, indicating she would be okay. Then she went through the doors to the emergency treatment area.

Managing to get her emotions a little more under control, Barbara tilted her head up slightly to whisper in Ezra’s ear, "I plan to do a complete, personal examination of your body when we get home, Mister Standish, be prepared." A slight chuckle told her she had helped her beloved release a small bit of the tension he was carrying.

The next time the double doors opened it was to allow two gurneys to be pushed through. Chris and Vin were brought inside. Kelli held Vin's hand, while Chris ordered the paramedic to stop for a moment beside Buck and Travis.

"Damn, stud, you didn't have to go to this extreme. You could have just called," Buck commented to his old friend.

"You know me, never did do things the traditional way." Chris grimaced with pain. "Expect a visit from the Feebies, Orrin. Captain Standish can fill you in."

"Gentlemen you may talk later, right now I have work to do." Doctor Gilford had been watching for his other two patients and intervened. He ordered the medics, "Move 'em out." Patting Kelli on the shoulder he promised, "I'll take good care of them for you."

"I know you will, Doc, thanks." Kelli let go of her husband's hand, watching them being wheeled through the next set of double doors.

Buck steered her over to the waiting area, making her sit down. "We should be able to go in soon." He reached over to hold her hand and was surprised when she let him.

"Captain Standish, before they call you in I believe you should tell me just what happened. If I'm to expect a call from the FBI, I should know what I'm going to be facing." Travis made it plain he was not asking, but ordering Ezra to comply.

Ezra cleared his throat and began his narration, beginning with Agent Rush's unannounced visit to the MCAT office. He followed with Rush's threats, Agent Saunders' message from his informant, and finally what had transpired inside the barn. "I believe Commander Larabee still has the message we retrieved from the dead man in his possession. However, I did read it and it clearly was intended for the FBI."

The only thing that prevented Buck from cussing a blue streak was the presence of the ladies. "Of all the… they all could have been killed!  Who set them up, Ezra?  Was it Saunders or the FBI or both? What about the explosive? How was it set off?"

Before he could answer, Orrin asked, "What did the note say Standish?"

"The message said 'Die, die, FBI.'  I am convinced it was intended for Agent Rush, and probably was sent by the same bastard responsible for all of the dreadful events occurring the past week. Apparently the timer for the bomb was activated when the note was removed from the body. Fortunately from his vantage point in the loft, Vin saw it and shouted a warning. I am still not certain how we all were able to clear the building." Ezra stopped. He felt foolish adding that it felt like someone had pushed him into a safe zone.

Travis had heard enough to know he would be having strong words with Agent Rush and his superiors. His first priority though was seeing to the welfare of his unit. "Standish, give me your phone." He held out his hand, "I am stepping outside to make a few calls. If the doctor comes I want to know immediately." Travis stood, ignoring the nurse's order about using the wheelchair.

"Yes, Sir," Buck knew Travis was as angry as he was, but he had confidence the Director could more than handle the FBI. Their Director might not be 100% fit, but he was the only one who had the privilege of threatening his men. He had earned that right. However no one else could threaten them without living to regret it.

Ezra chuckled, "I have a feeling Agent Rush's days are numbered at the bureau."

"You may be right," Josiah said as he joined them. He had been cleaned up, his cuts bandaged and his burns treated. He held out his arms to Mallory when she jumped up to meet him. Mallory cuddled close, savoring the feel of her husband's strong arms wrapped tightly around her in one of his infamous 'bear' hugs he usually reserved for the children. Both of them needed the close contact at the moment. Mallory blinked back the tears which threatened to fall, refusing to give into her emotions in front of everyone.

"It's your turn, Ezra. Nurse Teri said to send you in," Josiah told Standish over Mallory's head.

"I shall return shortly, love." Ezra kissed Barbara and headed for the treatment room

"Good to see you in one piece, Josiah," Buck said.

"Credit an unexpected intervention," Josiah said. "I think we had some extra help making it out, but before I say more I need to talk to Chris and Vin. Unless Kelli can explain it?" He had not missed the strange conversation Chris seemed to be having with Vin. If it was Vin.

"Not me." Kelli was shaking her head. "You talk to Vin or Dad, see what they have to say."

"I plan on it." Josiah grinned. He loved puzzles, and he had been handed one that captivated his interest. "I'm a patient man. I have a feeling the days ahead are going to prove very enlightening for all of us."

Ezra returned from the treatment room to rejoin his family while they all waited for news on the conditions of Nathan, Chris, and Vin. Travis looked tired, but determined to stay. Josiah and Mallory sat together, while Buck alternated between sitting and pacing the small area. Kelli managed to separate herself from the others. She was now leaning against the windowsill. She had successfully locked away her feelings and raised her defenses. Ezra easily recognized the signs she was exhibiting. They were the same ones he often used in the past to protect himself from painful relationship entanglements. It was easier to rely on old patterns of staying isolated and distant than to risk the hurt of exposing one's emotions for all to see. *Standish, you know how it feels. Think of a way to help her get past it.*   Before he had an opportunity to do anything however, Doctor Gilford arrived.

"Ladies, gentlemen," he addressed them. "You already know I have released Standish and Sanchez. Agents Larabee, Tanner, and Jackson though will be our guests tonight. All of you were fortunate your vests prevented serious damage to vital areas. Agent Jackson, however, has suffered damage to his face and eyes. We're treating the heat blistering on his face with antibiotic creams and it should only take a few days to heal. The injury to his eyes is more serious. "

"How serious, Doc?" Buck asked.

"Several miniscule slivers of wood were embedded in and around his eyelids. We had to extract a couple from each one of his eyes. There is some corneal swelling in reaction to the foreign objects scratching the surface of the cornea. We will be treating Agent Jackson's eyes with a combination of ocular irrigates and Hyperosmotics several times a day and he will be forced to wear bandages over them when we release him from the hospital. I have every confidence when the final treatment has been completed, Agent Jackson will have full use of his sight. Doctor Jackson is in with her husband and we will be moving him to a room shortly."

There was a collective sigh from the family members present. Director Travis spoke up. "For security purposes, Doctor, could you have him moved into the room with me?'"  

"We can do that. I'll notify the nursing staff to make the arrangements. Commander Larabee has a concussion and several lacerations. I want him to stay for observation for a minimum of twenty-four hours. Captain Tanner was apparently far enough away not to suffer from the heat, but he did land hard on his left leg. It's not broken, but he did sustain some tendon stress. I figured the only way I can be certain he will stay off his leg is to keep him here, too." Gilford held up a hand to stall the question he was positive would be asked. "I have already approved for them to be in the same room. They are being moved now. I will work with whatever security measures you wish to make. Kel, if you're ready, I'll escort you up to see them." Kelli nodded, going with Doctor Gilford, leaving Orrin, Buck, Ezra, and Josiah to decide who stayed on watch for the night.

"I spoke with Justin earlier. Raphael and Alex volunteered to spend the night here. They should be arriving soon. We also need to get some vehicles from the office up here for the rest of you," Travis informed them.

"Mallory dropped me at the office on the way over here, so I could pick up Ezra's Jag." Barbara reached into her pocket, pulled out the keys and handed them to her husband.

"I am certain Rain will be staying with Nathan. Kel will have to go home at least long enough to feed the twins," Mallory said.

"Josiah, if you are up to staying, you should be with Chris and Vin. Buck, I assume you will go back to JD's room once you see the others. Alex and Raphael can swap watch on my room. Ezra, it will be up to you to see that Kelli goes home," Travis instructed.

"I can stay," Josiah agreed, squeezing his wife's hand. "Mal, you and Barbara should probably head back to the ranch."

Ezra knew Barbara wanted to argue against him doing anything but coming home with her, but she bit her tongue. He was proud of the valiant effort she made not to say anything. "It will take our combined efforts to keep all of our stubborn teammates here, so they can get the proper medical attention they need. You and Mallory will be needed for reinforcements tomorrow. Getting a good night's rest will be essential. I will be home later, after I persuade Kelli to leave using the same argument." He kissed his wife and smiled. "I love you."

"I love you, too." Barbara trailed her fingers over the small cuts on his handsome face. "I'll go, but you make sure you arrive home safe and sound."

Josiah walked them out to say good-bye, grabbing two books from the Suburban to read during the long night ahead. He watched to make certain the ladies were safely on the road and returned to join Travis and Buck.

Before going to see Chris and Vin, the trio of agents took Director Travis back to his room. Nathan had already been moved, and they wanted to see how he was doing. Rain stood beside her husband's bedside, holding his hand, speaking soothingly to him. She could practically feel the panic welling up within Nathan at the idea that he might be permanently blind, despite Doctor Gilford's assurance that he expected a full recovery. She wished she could do more to reassure him. Evie Travis stood beside the younger woman, rubbing her back. Rain was grateful for the motherly comfort. At the sound of the door opening, both women glanced over to it. Evie smiled when she caught sight of her husband and walked over to assist him back into his hospital bed.

Nathan stirred. "Who's there?" With his eyes wrapped in protective bandaging, he couldn't see anyone, but he heard the footsteps of at least three or more people.

"It's me, Buck, and Ezra returning the Director and checking in with you," Josiah answered.

"Well, I'm here. I can't see a damn thing, but I am still breathing," Nathan replied sullenly.

Rain cleared her throat, imploring them with her eyes to give him some time. "The nurse just gave him a shot to make him sleep. Maybe you should all come back in the morning."

"Sure, we can do that." Buck patted Jackson's leg. "You take care. Don't give this pretty lady a hard time."

Ezra touched Nathan's hand. "We’ll be back early." He leaned down to whisper, "I expect you to tell us if the Director snores."

Josiah hugged Rain and told Nathan, "I'll be in the hospital all night. You call if you need me."

Nathan didn't respond to any of the comments. He only nodded, not wanting them to know just how scared he was. He knew there was a chance his eyes wouldn't respond positively to the treatments the doctor had initiated. There was also the possibility he could have some allergic reaction to the eyewash solutions being used. He could end up permanently blind. He had a lot to think about. What if he didn't get his sight back completely?  What if he had to retire from law enforcement and … do what?

Kelli was having difficulty understanding how she felt. When she walked in and saw the two most important men in her life injured and lying in hospital beds side-by-side, she felt her anxiety increase. She came too close to losing both of them. She also spent too much time contemplating what ifs, while she was waiting for a report on their condition. She forced herself to relax, moving further into the room when Doctor Gilford finished with them. Kelli hoped Vin was too medicated to notice her apprehension.

"Hey, looks like you two get a short vacation," she smiled, while walking over to stand between their beds. "How are y'all feelin'?"

Chris growled, "Like I should be home."

"Behave for the next twenty-four hours and I might release you, Larabee," Dr Gilford said from where he looked over their charts. "You both will follow my orders or I'll find a reason to keep you in here for a week. Scheduling an assortment of tests I guarantee will make you miserable."

"I just bet you would, Doc," Vin said as he reached for Kelli's hand. "I plan on leavin' here tomorrow, so I reckon I’ll behave, but Larabee's another story. He just can't help bein' grouchy. It's his natural state."

Doctor Gilford laughed. "I know. Kel, I'll leave you with them, but only until visiting hours are over. You go home and take care of yourself."

"She will," Vin assured him. Before Doctor Gilford could make his exit from the room, Buck, Ezra and Josiah entered.

Buck grinned and said, "I can't leave you two alone for a minute without someone ending up in here."

"If you're all here, then who is staying with JD and Nathan?" Chris asked.

"Rain is with Nathan in Travis's room. Orrin said to tell you he would see you in the morning. Raphael relieved Selena and Brad for the night and Alex took over for Mark. "I'll be in JD's room tonight and Josiah will be babysitting you two," Buck explained.

Chris grunted, "We don't need a babysitter. Josiah, you and Ezra should be home resting."

"I'll rest just fine in here. Until we know who tried to incinerate his team, Travis insisted on one of us staying with you." Josiah disregarded Chris's bad mood. "If you're good, I'll read you a bedtime story."

Vin rolled his eyes. "What about you, Ez?"

"I have a special assignment, per Director Travis's orders. My job is to escort my partner home."

"Good luck." Chris knew his daughter too well to think she would leave without an argument.

"Actually, the boys will be givin' Max a fit if I miss their next feedin', but I'll be back as soon as they're done." She looked into Vin's eyes, hoping he would not see her inner turmoil.

Vin studied her for a moment, concern showing in his perceptive eyes. Something was wrong, but he was not going to discuss it here with everyone listening. He raised her hand to his lips, kissing her palm. "I'll be fine, Baby. You go home and take care of our kids. Tell 'em I’ll be home tomorrow."

"I really should come back…" Kelli protested.

"I'm fine, Chris is fine. Go home, Kel, no arguments." Vin squeezed her hand. "Hug the kids for me."

Kelli hesitated for a moment, knowing Vin expected her to argue, but then nodded. "I will, but I'll be here first thing in the mornin'." She leaned down and kissed him. "You get your rest. Give your leg a chance to heal."

Vin was suddenly reluctant to let her go. His gut said to make her stay, but his head told him he was letting the events of the day cloud his judgment. "Ez, you take care of her." He let go of her hand.

"Good night, Dad. I'll stop by to check on Grace and Cody before I come up tomorrow." She bent down, kissing him on the forehead. "Take care of the headache I know you have."

"Night, Missy, hug the kids for me, too." Chris had a strange feeling about her reactions as well, but thought it would be best if he let Vin deal with it. Ezra opened the door for Kelli, saying his own goodnights.

"I need to get back to JD. See you both in the morning." Buck patted the end of Chris's bed. "Get some rest."

Josiah offered to walk with Buck to the elevator. "I need to stop by the nurse's station to see where that rollaway bed is, but I won't be gone long."

When they were alone Chris asked Vin, "What the hell happened out there today?"

"It's kinda hard to explain, especially to a man who doesn't want to believe in what he can’t see."

"Try me," Chris snapped.

Vin took a deep breath. "Okay, you were hearin' the voices of a bounty huntin' Texan I believe is my great, great, grandfather and a Cowboy that 'm pretty sure is yours." He waited for Chris's reaction, smiling when he heard muttered curses.

"That's bull! You're gonna have to come up with something better than that. You think I was born yesterday?" Chris huffed, turning his back to Vin. "I only have room in my head for one Tanner. Trust me, one is enough."

"If you say so, Chris," Vin closed his eyes, wondering how long Chris would be able to stay in denial.

Looking over at the wall Chris couldn’t stop the thoughts racing through his head. He questioned if his stubborn refusal to be open to spirits among them would end up costing the life of someone dear to him. He hated to admit it, but Vin’s explanation made more sense than anything he had been able to come up with. He did feel strong hands pushing him out of the barn. He knew he was the last one out, too. No, the whole idea of his and Vin's great, great grandfathers helping them out was too ridiculous.

Buck slipped silently back into JD's hospital room. He felt weary all the way to his bones after the events of the last few hours. They had been so very lucky today. Granted, Nathan was considered in serious condition due to the injuries to his eyes, but things could have turned out far worse. He and JD could have been mourning the loss of five friends today. The enormity of that realization weighed heavily on him.

Moving over to JD's side, he paused beside the roll-a-way bed Casey currently slept on. He gazed down at her with concern, noting the dark circles under her eyes, and the pallor of her skin. She had worn herself out the last few days with her unwillingness to leave JD for any real length of time, unless coerced.  

Buck continued on to the chair beside JD's bed, settling his weary frame into it. According to the doctors, JD was doing better. However, he tired easily and slept most of the time. When he was awake he had difficulty concentrating because of the medications he was on, becoming frustrated easily. Seeing both Dunne's so wiped out, Buck decided not to tell them about the days' events. They had enough to worry about and there was nothing either of them could do about it. Not wanting to give in just yet to the weariness beating at him, he picked up the book he had been reading earlier. The best thing for now was to watch and wait for the right time to tell them.

Ezra walked with Kelli to the parking lot. When he saw how carefully Barbara had parked his Jag, or rather the silver bullet as Kelli had named it, he smiled. She had taken extra care to make certain it was not too close to other vehicles and was clearly in view of a security camera. As much as his wife teased him about his love for a car, she did understand what the vehicle meant to him. This was Barbara's way of saying she loved him enough to care about what was important to him. He opened the passenger door for his partner and walked around to the driver's side to get in.

Starting the engine, Ezra glanced over at Kelli. She was unusually quiet and kept rubbing her fingers over the medallion she was wearing. While he drove, he debated with himself about whether or not he should venture an opinion or keep his mouth shut. "Kel, you do know Vin and Chris will be all right?"

Ezra's voice snapped her out of her thoughts. "Yes, of course I do. I … I'm just tired, Ez. I'm not very good company 'm afraid."

He sighed and made his decision. "I spent several years being the same kind of tired. It is difficult to break old habits, Kel. I love Barbara and my unique family of brothers, but I still find myself looking back on the days I chose to remain detached. Especially when we have a close call like we did today. In my early days here in Denver I found it hard to allow myself to show how much I cared. It was easier not to. Sometimes it still is, especially when I begin to think of all the times in the past I was disappointed when I allowed my feelings to slip out. When I think about what I missed out on during all those years of being alone, I realize it’s worth whatever the risks to share my life with my loved ones."

"Lord, am I that easy to read now?"

"Yes, but only to those of us who have been there and spent too much time alone. Vin saw it tonight at the hospital. I also recognized the signs all too well."

Kelli thought about the years she spent keeping her distance, resisting the need to form any type of permanent relationships. She had been alone, but then she never felt the deep pain she was feeling now. Linda was the one exception to her rule of not getting close to anyone. It was easier to do, because they spent so much time in different states. Vin though, just bulldozed his way through her wall of defenses, dragging her into a love which changed her life forever. Later, when she discovered Chris was her biological father, she refused at first to believe he would ever find a place in her heart, but he did.

"I thought Vin destroyed all my insecurities, but tonight I discovered a few of 'em have apparently been hidin'. When I saw y'all runnin' out of the barn and Vin jumpin' from the loft, it scared the hell out of me. I hate what ifs, but it's all I have been able to think about since we arrived at the hospital."

"We are both too deep into this Wild Bunch of a family we've acquired to go back to our old ways. However, if you ever need to talk to someone who understands I would be more than willing to listen."

"Thanks, Ezra. I think I'll be fine once 'm home and holdin' one of our babies. Tomorrow is Saturday. Before I go back to the hospital I'll spend time with Jason and Andi. Those two tend to help me keep things in perspective. "

Ezra turned onto the road leading to Larabee 7. "They are remarkable children who seem to possess wisdom beyond their years…"

The stillness of the night was shattered when the passenger side window imploded from a gunshot. Kelli screamed when shards of glass flew everywhere. Ezra reacted immediately, turning the steering wheel sharply to maneuver the Jag toward the shelter of the boulders on the side of the road. Both agents drew their weapons, throwing the doors open, using them to shield themselves while they scanned the area for the shooter.

"It came from up there somewhere." Kelli pointed toward the elevated tree line.

"This is too damn close to the same place Chris and Vin were shot at to be a coincidence. It has to be the same sniper."

"If it is you can be damn sure he has an exit planned."

"Then what do you say we make sure to cut the bastard off?" Ezra knew these roads. Unless the shooter planned to head to the ranch there were only two ways he could go. One was back down the route they had just come from, which would not be a smart move on the sniper's part. The other was an older road that led back to the highway. "The service road is the only other way out of here."

The fully alert agents jumped back into the Ezra's silver bullet. They headed toward the crossroad which connected the two routes. If they were lucky they could get there before the sniper; if not then they would just have to chase the sonofabitch down.

Ezra pushed his Jag passed eighty, while Kelli radioed the county sheriff's office for assistance. As they approached the intersection, a black Porsche roared passed them. Ezra swore, "Damnit, no local police car will be able to keep up with him." He shifted gears, increasing his speed.

"If you can push him to take the 280, Deputies will lay down a spike strip. It might slow him down." She coordinated with the dispatcher, relaying a description of the car.

Ezra concentrated on his driving, but acknowledged what his partner said with a curt nod. The Jag and the Porsche were evenly matched for speed, but the sniper had an advantage. His only goal was to escape. Ezra wanted to catch the bastard, but he was not willing to risk getting himself or Kelli killed in the process. By now two patrol units had joined the pursuit, attempting to keep up with him. Two others tried to block the road that would take the driver away from the 280. The black car blurred around them without even slowing down. They hastily moved out of the way to allow the Jag to pass and then joined the chase.

The silver bullet was within twenty feet of the Porsche when they approached the next intersection. The speeding vehicle barely missed crashing into a van crossing in front of it. Ezra had to slow down to avoid a collision. The DPD monitored the pursuit and when the black car approached the city limits they came from the opposite direction to intercept the speeding vehicle. With police cars in front of it and the silver bullet coming from behind, the Porsche made a right into the parking lot of a closed gas station. It took out the hoses of the fuel pumps with a glancing blow, at a speed of over one hundred miles per hour, before moving on to the back exit of the parking lot.

Fuel sprayed into the air as the DPD cars raced after the black Porsche. Suddenly there was a spark and the pump caught fire. Officers scrambled to get their vehicles out of the way before the pump exploded. Ezra slammed on the brakes and his Jag slid to a stop just as a fireball erupted. The force of the explosion rocked the car.

Ezra pounded the steering wheel when he saw the Porsche race off on the other side of the flames. "Damnit all to hell, the fucking bastard got away!"

Kelli threw her head back against the seat, only now feeling the sting from the shattered glass which sprayed her before. "You think we can avoid tellin' Vin and Dad about this?"

"As Tanner would say, not likely," Ezra said, turning to look at his partner. "Jesus Kel, you didn't say you were hit!" Under the streetlight he could see the blood staining her shirt, trickling down from several cuts on her neck. He turned on the interior lights to get a better look at her injury. "You're a damn bloody mess."

"I wasn't hit exactly. Not by the shot"

"Let me see." Ezra examined her face and neck, inspecting the damage the glass had caused. He pulled out his handkerchief, placing it on the side of her throat. "Hold this while I call for a paramedic."

"Ez, please don't," Kelli pleaded. "It's not that bad. I don't want Vin to hear I was forced to go to the ER and not tell him."

"For God sake, Kel, he's bound to notice!" Ezra shouted. "Even if he didn't and that's about as likely as hell freezing over, we have to make a report about all this."

Kelli sighed. "Fine, Ezra, I'll have Max look at it. She was a nurse in the Navy. I'm sure she'll be able to take care of it. Get what information we need and let's go home."

Ezra quickly gathered information from the other officers on the scene and walked back to the car. "You, Lady, I am taking home to see Max. I will take care of our report."

"I reckon it’s too much to hope that you'll wait to file it until later next week."

"Don't worry. I'll leave out the part about you bleeding all over the interior of my car, but I have a feeling when our Commander and Captain read about the gunshot through the window, they might put two and two together."

"Their two plus two equals me bein' lucky to see daylight anytime in the near future." Kelli was sure that if Vin didn't lock her in the house, Chris would.

Once they arrived at the Tanner home, Ezra explained to Walter what had happened, while Max examined Kelli. She cleaned the cuts, removed as much of the glass as she could from Kelli's hair and then ordered her into the shower, promising to finish bandaging her wounds when she was done.

"I had to put a few stitches in two places on her neck and shoulder. She'll need a butterfly bandages for a couple of the deepest cuts," Max informed Ezra. "She'll be a little sore but fortunately she instinctively turned away when she heard the shot, allowing most of the glass to miss her face."

"We'll stay here tonight and take care of Missy. In the morning we can drive over to the office to pick up Vin's truck if you want, so you can put your baby in the shop," Walter told Ezra, "Go home, there's nothing else you can do tonight. Don't worry; Mother Hen Max will be on duty. Get some rest yourself, Standish."

"I will, but you call if you need any assistance." Ezra walked out the door to his beloved silver bullet, shaking his head at the broken window and the near miss on his and Kelli's life. He climbed inside hoping he would fare better than his car had when he reported to Chris and Vin about the latest encounter with Shadowchaser.