Title: Healing Touch

Author: Cloudy daze

Rating: PG –13. Yeah, I know something you don't see everyday from me. Usually that lemon muse has something to say about the rating but not for this one.

Category: AU, Fantasy, Sap, OOC, yaoi but of course. ^__^ This one is actually pretty short of me. I was trying a one shot but that didn't work to well. It is however two parts so it is really short considering what I usually write.

Pairings: 2x1, 3x4, and 5x6

Feedback: Yes please. ^^

Healing Touch

Chapter 1

The golden sun peaked up from behind the mountain range, causing the early morning dew to shimmer. The peaceful countryside calmed the weary travelers greatly. They had been searching for weeks; each new town to explore bringing depleted hopes for success. Their King had ordered them out, after a sufficient mourning period, to obtain a new member for their group. Channelers were very difficult to come by however, which presented them with a huge problem.

In their society healers made up about fifty percent of the population. The degree of strength in ability though varied greatly. All healers were placed in classes, with ten being a very powerful and effective one. Most individuals that had the ability ranked between three and five in strength. His group was part of the King's royal healers so all of them were class ten. They could together bring back an individual from the brink of death, heal a broken spinal cord, and save a person from disease. Unfortunately this came with a large price, draining almost all the energy from their bodies. All acts of healing had some affect on the healer, the worse the injury the more energy lost. This is where the channeler is essential.

Channelers were a middleman, so to speak. A healer's power surged to the individual and then to the injured person. The channeler dampened the strength the healer had to use, creating an even more effective cure. This way the healer could help without fear of becoming completely drained. A mass healing didn't tire a channeler at all, and in fact the individual could be helping and not even realize it.

He didn't completely understand what a channeler felt during a healing but Merian had tried to explain it to him before her passing. He sighed at the familiar ache in his heart when he thought of the lively Chinese women. She had been a good friend to all of them and a great member of the team. The Cave-in had ended her life before there was even a chance to try and heal her. Wufei had been hit the hardest by the tragedy; he'd loved her deeply.

This is so boring, one of the healers finally snapped, halting in his tracks, We're never going to find a channeler. The chestnut haired teen sighed, leaning back against a tree trunk.

Duo, you knew it would take awhile. If Merian had not grown up near Wufei we would more than likely would not have had her on the team, Heero chided.

We should just go on without a channeler. I believe the four of us can handle future healings, Wufei commented.

Trowa remained silent through their remarks, allowing them to get their thoughts out in the open. He gave Wufei a reassuring pat on his back, knowing his actions were because he didn't want to think of Merian as gone.

We will never be able to replace her, Wufei. However for our continued good health a channeler is needed. You know the months healing without Merian have tired us considerably, Trowa murmured.

The Chinese teen nodded, I know, my friend. I just don't want to think about it yet.

Don't worry, Fei. You still have us, Duo exclaimed, bounding over to tightly hug the other healer.

Get off, Maxwell! Heero call off your lapdog, Wufei snapped.

I'm hurt by that Fei. You both know Heero's more my lapdog than the other way around, Duo smirked; ignoring the glare he received from the Japanese individual.

I suggest you stop this line of conversation before you end up sleeping on the floor, Heero remarked.

Duo laughed as he released the teen he held. The long-haired healer leaped forward, wrapping his arms against Heero's waist.

You would never do that. You love me too much, Duo said with a grin.

I claim temporary insanity, Heero stated.

The other two healers chuckled at this, watching as Duo pouted. Heero sighed before giving the brunette a soft kiss in apology.

I suppose we should get moving. Who has the map? Trowa inquired.

Wufei said nothing but un-shouldered his pack. He set it down and rummaged for a few seconds before pulling out a rolled up scroll. He slowly unrolled the object, studying it carefully. The Chinese healer than pulled out a compass, checking the direction.

Are we getting close to a town? I'm hungry, Duo whined.

Wufei sighed as he returned the map to his bag. If we didn't stop every time you were tired or bored we would be there by now.

What can I say, walking can only be so entertaining, Duo protested.

So are we close, Wufei? Heero asked, the bickering of his two companions not fazing him in the least. Frankly he would be worried if they didn't fight.

The next town is relatively close. We should be there Wufei started, but paused when he heard a dog barking.

I wonder who would be wandering around this early in the morning? Heero wondered.

It could be a stray dog, Duo pointed out.

It's probably a hunter, the Chinese teen commented, the disgust evident in his voice.

Just because you don't eat meat doesn't mean no one else can, Duo exclaimed.

I have no problem with individuals who consume animals that are specifically bred as food. Wild creatures however are meant to stay wild. To kill them is to destroy part of nature. Humans have already obliterated countless forests to build cities and towns. Enough damage has already been done without adding more deaths to our hands.

Wu-man, defender of all creatures great and small, the long-haired healer joked.

Heero, he's going to get himself killed one day. You know this, right? Trowa muttered to the other healer.

I know and sometimes I can't help but hope he is, Heero whispered back.

I think they're insulting me Fei, Duo exclaimed.

When are you not insulted, the Chinese healer snapped.

Ok, that's enough you two. Focus on the task at hand, Trowa chided, I suggest we go around the dog just in case it is in fact a hunter.

The sharp barking suddenly increased in volume, causing the four individuals to all glance forward. Duo was the first to move, slinking several feet to shift a few bushes aside and gaze at the animal in question. He quietly motioned the three to follow his lead.

Fei, just warning you. You're not going to like this, Duo murmured.

The Chinese healer steeled himself before he followed Duo's line of vision. He was sickened at what he saw. A corn feeder had been set up, taunting the creatures with thoughts of free food. This handout was a manipulative trick however as metal traps circled the treats, waiting to snap shut on the legs of the poor animal who happened to enter. The lone victim of the cruel trap was a young female deer, her left front leg broken and bleeding. She had long sense given up the struggle to escape and instead laid on her side in the grass, barely breathing. A large German Shepard sat at a safe distance away from the scene, barking once or twice at random intervals.

Using traps like that is just heartless and cruel, Trowa whispered, disgusted at what he saw.

I'm letting that deer free and healing it, Wufei stated firmly. Before he could start forward the rustling of leaves and branches stopped him, a cloaked figure entering the grassy area.

Quiet, Blue. You'll scare her, the individual remarked, patting the dog on the head.

He slowly made his way over to the doe, who didn't even bother to try and escape. You'll be free in a minute, he whispered, working to open the sharp metal clamp. After the animal was released he placed both hands above the injured leg. He then shut his eyes, calling forth the gift he had been born with. A golden light sprang from his hands, the broken and bloody flesh binding together. The animal's eyes quickly shot open and she bolted away from the human, racing into the forest.

How many has that been today, Blue? Ten I believe. The hunters just never learn, he exclaimed. He scanned the perimeter, gathering several thick fallen branches. Using them he proceeded to spring each trap, rendering them harmless. When he finished he patted his leg, which told the dog he was allowed to come forward. The animal bolted up to his owner, barking loudly. His tail wagged rapidly at the individual, his tongue hanging out of a grinning mouth.

The lone figure laughed, lifting the feeder into his arms. He walked several feet away from the traps and began spreading the corn around the ground.

The energetic dog barked several times before pausing suddenly. He lifted his head high, sniffing the air.

I think we've been discovered, Duo whispered right before the dog ran towards them, breaking through the bushes. He bounced at the long-haired healer, knocking him to the ground. He then proceeded to lick his face.

Dog slobber. Get it off! Duo protested, thoroughly annoyed with his comrades whom couldn't seem to stop laughing enough to help him.

I think Blue likes you. He's a pretty good judge of character, the cloaked figure commented as he dropped the feeder and made his way over to the group.

Can you get him off please? Duo begged.

The dog's owner laughed before patting his leg. The animal quickly crawled off the fallen healer, returning to the other's side.

May I ask what you four are doing out this early in the morning? he inquired.

How do you know we're not the hunters checking our traps? Wufei questioned.

Well for one Blue likes all of you. He would have attacked if you were hunters. You're not yelling at me for what you just saw. And lastly all those hunters are too lazy to be out now, that's why they use traps instead of guns.

Once again another example of humans using technology to further increase becoming lazy and useless, Wufei remarked.

The dog's owner laughed faintly before sliding his hood down. He shook his head to allow the platinum strands to cascade down his back. Bright blue eyes gazed at them all.

My name is Milliardo Peacecraft. It's a pleasure, he introduced.

Name's Duo Maxwell, the brunette said quickly, The tall brunette is Trowa Barton. The quiet Japanese is Heero Yuy and the one who shares your views on saving animals is Wufei Chang.

We're royal healers for the King and are currently on a mission to find a channeler for our group, Trowa informed.

You must really be good if you work for the King. I must admit however that I'm not sure what a channeler is, the blonde stated.

Duo laughed, walking over to pat the individual on the back. Don't worry about it. I didn't know before either and the concept still confuses me to this day. Wufei can fill you in on it though.

Can I ask you something first? Trowa inquired.

Go right ahead.

You said you healed ten animals today already correct? How serious were the injuries and what's the time frame between them all? Trowa questioned.

It's probably been two hours since I left home this morning. Many of the traps are out far in the forest. And I've actually healed 14 animals today, some I've just found injured. They actually weren't in traps. Most had broken bones and a few even had broken backs. I was lucky to arrive when I did. I almost lost three of them.

The taller brunette glanced around at his fellow healers, silently asking them if they thought what he thought. The blonde before them was obviously quite powerful. With that much healing in such a short span however there had to be another factor at work here.

Are you tired at all? Heero asked.

Not really. I do this everyday so I'm used to it, the platinum haired individual answered, Is this something unusual?

We're not sure yet, Trowa remarked.

It's just you've healed a lot without losing energy, Heero pointed out.

Really? I never thought I was doing anything different than a normal healer. The two healers I work with usually do the same amount of healing in a day as I do and they're never tired out afterwards, Milliardo exclaimed.

Have you ever found yourself exhausted after many healings? Trowa questioned.

The blonde thought for a moment before answering. Now that you mention it, there was a couple times I went with one of the other healers to Trussen. When we healed this one time I went a little overboard and passed out. Luckily I was fine when I came to.

Trowa gazed over at his other three companions. You're all thinking the same thing as I am right?

Yeah, there's a channeler somewhere in that town, Duo exclaimed, Come on Milliardo, you can introduce us around the town.

I will if you explain a channeler to me, the blonde stated.

Fei will tell you on the walk back. Come on lets go! I'm starving here! Duo commented.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

So a channeler can be aiding in a healing and not even realize it? the platinum haired individual pondered.

That is correct. They may feel a bit light-headed but that passes as soon as the injury is fixed, the Chinese healer answered.

This is so fascinating. So all my life I've had help when I've healed and never even knew it, the blonde remarked.

Less talking, I'm wasting away here, Duo protested.

Milliardo laughed at the comment, leading them into his small hometown. Many small shops and homes littered the side of the main road, most of the people having woken from their slumber. They stopped in front of a restaurant, its door already open and waiting for customers.

Noin, we need some food over here before this one guy hurts me! the blonde called out.

I'm coming! the woman answered back before she entered the dining area from the back door. She flipped a stray strand of dark blue hair back before making her way over to them.

Millie dear out saving animals again were you? a smile graced her face as she indicated a table where they could all sit.

You know it. That's how I met these guys. They're royal healers to the King, the blonde explained.

Well it's an honor to have you gentlemen here. I'll be sure to bring you all out something nice to eat, she remarked.

Make sure there isn't meat on Fei's. He's vegetarian all the way. Could never do that. I like my meat too much, Duo commented.

I know the feeling, I couldn't either. He can have the same as Millie here. He won't eat meat either, Noin added and with that said she exited the room.

Is she your girlfriend? the long haired brunette inquired.

The taller individual laughed at that. Hardly. She's just a close friend.

Duo leaned forward, whispering in his ear. Doesn't have the right parts, does she?

Milliardo's eyes widened, his face quickly turning a rosy red. Duo grinned at his reaction, I knew I was right.

Ignore him. The rest of us do, Wufei commented.

Heero doesn't! He knows what happens if he's mean to me, the loud healer exclaimed.

I really don't want to know, do I? the platinum haired man asked Wufei.

The smaller figure shook his head. Several minutes passed by before the kitchen door pushed open. The blue haired woman entered, large tray loading with food in hand. She passed out a plate full of eggs, toast, bacon, sausage, and grits to the three healers. And for our little herbivores.. She stated as she set two plates down. Each had three square waffles drenched in strawberries and topped with whip cream. Eat up boys! The woman gave Milliardo a pat on the shoulder before heading back to the kitchen.

Thanks Noin. Owe you one!

The others added their thanks before digging in to their food.

Let me try that Fei, Duo called out, reaching for the Chinese teen's food. The healer quickly moved the food away.

You have your own food meat eater. This one is mine.

Didn't know you had such a sweet tooth, Heero remarked.

Wufei shrugged at the statement. I usually don't but this is really good.

I always eat this when I'm here. I think Noin does something to make them not as rich, Milliardo pointed out, I wouldn't be able to take it if it was too strong.

Food is so good, Duo exclaimed, munching on a piece of bacon.

Wufei sighed as he rolled his eyes.

I know I'm beginning to wonder myself, the silver haired man stated. He shifted over to the sighing healer. He wasn't dropped as a baby was he?

Wufei snickered at that, I think so. Either that or he got into paint thinner.

It looks like those two are hitting it off nicely. I'm glad Wufei is smiling. He hasn't done that since Merian's death.' Trowa thought, silently watching the group of healers. We still need to find this channeler. I'm sure there is one somewhere in this town. Everything that Milliardo told us leads to one living here.

I have to stop by the healers before we start looking to let them know I'm not coming in, The blonde announced suddenly.

Sounds like a good idea. I'd like to talk to the other healers as well. One might know who the channeler is, Trowa commented.

That would be too easy, Duo remarked.

I know but it wouldn't hurt to try, the brunette added.

I'll have to introduce you to Quatre. He's one of my best friends. I work with his sister. He can't really heal at all but he's always willing to help out. He's really nice and all, Milliardo remarked.

That'll be fun. I'm glad we winded up here. I'm sick of going from town to town. Here at least there are nice people, Duo exclaimed, Not to mention good food.

The group sighed, shaking their heads at the brunette.

I know he'd say that, Heero claimed.

I think we all did and I just met him, Milliardo added.

Is everyone finished eating? If so I suggest we get moving, the tall brunette announced.

How much will this cost? Heero inquired.

Milliardo shrugged the question away. Don't worry about it. I never pay for food here and Noin never had to pay at the healers. It just works better that way. I also collect herbs in the forest for cooking. Helps her out a lot.

I'm going to go thank her. Be back in a second! Duo exclaimed as he bounced from his chair and hurried through the kitchen door. He returned a few moments later, smiling.

She gave you something didn't she? the blonde asked, already knowing the answer.

The long haired brunette grinned brightly without answering, licking his lips.

Noin's always been too nice for her own good.

She told us to never be strangers and come back anytime. I told her I definitely would, Duo stated.

We better get going before the bottomless pit goes back to the kitchen for more, Wufei suggested.

The brunette pouted, sticking his tongue out at the other healer. The blonde laughed at their actions, rising from his chair. The others followed suit, just about to leave when the door opened. The slender figure bolted into the room, breathing heavy.

Millie! Rocco broke his back leg. Can you help him? the newcomer asked.

Of course I will Quatre. Just lead the way, the healer said urgently.

Can I do it? That way I can see if there is a channeler around, Trowa exclaimed. His gaze locked on Quatre, taking in his appearance. Golden blonde hair framed a small face, bright blue eyes glancing up at him. The teen appeared to be slightly younger then him, although Trowa couldn't be sure. His whole body was slender, as if a strong breeze could knock him over.

Don't worry Quatre. Just show Trowa where he is and he'll fix Rocco right up.

The blonde gazed up at the brunette, a bright smile lighting up his face. Trowa's heart skipped a beat at the look of warmth directed at him. He's gorgeous.' The feeling intensified when the small individual took his hand, leading him quickly out of the building.

As soon as the door closed behind them Duo laughed. I think our silent leader is smitten. Everyone saw the look he was giving Quatre, right?

Well I hope he's used to touchy feely people cause Quatre is really into that. He hugs all the time, the long haired healer exclaimed.

I'm sure he won't mind that from Blondie. Makes me wonder if Quatre feels the same way or if that's just the way he is to everyone, Duo pondered.

Meanwhile, the blonde in question was struggling valiantly not to pass out. I just have to breath. He's just helping my dog, nothing more. Oh why does he have to be so attractive? I can't stop glancing back at him.' The brunette's hand fit so perfectly around his, Quatre didn't want to let go. Why am I acting this way? I just met him. I don't know anything about him except his name and that he's a healer.'

Why does Quatre have to be so cute? I just want to take him in my arms and kiss him until he's breathless.' Trowa sighed inwardly as he shook his head. Am I that lonely I want to be with the first beautiful person I see?'

Don't move Rocco. You don't want to agitate the wound, Quatre chided as the injured dog came into view.

The animal whimpered, resting his head against the ground. The damaged leg lay lifeless beside him, blood caking the fur. The blonde frowned, gazing up at Trowa. Can you help him?

This is nothing I can't handle. He'll be fine, the brunette promised.

Thank you. I'll be waiting behind the house over there. I'm sorry but I tend to get faint when I see blood, Quatre claimed, blushing.

The healer slipped his hand away, patting the blonde on the shoulder. Don't worry about it. Many people feel the same way about blood.

Thank you again, Quatre murmured as he walked out of view.

The brunette allowed himself a smile before kneeling down beside the dog. The creature appeared to be a cross between a German Shepard and some other kind of dog. Trowa couldn't quite tell. Emerald eyes closed and he began to call up the power deep within him. As soon as his gift stretched forward to the injured animal a floodgate opened. Trowa gasped at the tide wave of energy returning to him, even as it continued to knit damaged flesh together. The healing ended as quickly as it began, the dog barking as he licked his savior's face.

There is definitely a channeler in this town. A strong one at that. Either the individual is stronger than Merian or else he or she doesn't check himself or herself during the process. If it's the second one this channeler must be tired quite frequently.' The brunette patted the still barking dog on the head, softly asking him to quiet down.

Quatre! You can come back now! The healer called out. Trowa blinked in confusion when the blonde failed to return. He was just about to search for him when the smaller figure finally made himself known. The dog barked loudly, racing up to his owner.

The blonde laughed as he hugged the animal. I'm glad you're ok, Rocco.

The healer smiled at the interaction, walking over to the two of them. Quatre stood back up, wrapping his arms around Trowa's waist. Thank you so much.

The brunette slowly followed the blonde's example, slipping his own arms around the tiny individual. He rested his chin on the top of Quatre's head, smiling at how right the situation felt.

You're welcome, he whispered.

The dog pawing them both snapped them out of the moment and they pulled away. The blonde blushed brightly, focusing his attentions on his pet in hopes that Trowa hadn't noticed the shy action.

At that time the members of Trowa's party as well as Milliardo had reached the scene. Duo grinned widely at the two.

Did I miss something hot and steamy? he inquired with a laugh.

The taller figure glared at him, his cheeks faintly tinted pale pink. The blonde on the other hand looked about ready to pass out at the remark.

Don't worry Quatre. He's just playing with you. He does this all the time, Heero pointed out.

Is there a channeler here? Wufei questioned.

Trowa nodded, Definitely. And a strong one at that.

What's a channeler? Quatre asked.

The long haired brunette dropped his arm across the blonde's shoulders. Something tells me we're going to be here for awhile so no rush. Let's find somewhere to talk about this.

I know just the place, Milliardo suggested, indicating everyone to follow him. The group then headed off, the dog trailing behind them.

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TBC