Healing Touch

Part 2

The following days were met with increasing disappointment. The group of royal healers had helped countless individuals and animals. However they were no closer to finding the channeler then they were when they started.

I swear Heero. I'm about ready to say screw it. We're getting nowhere! Duo protested. The two lovers had split off from the others, claiming more people could be checking if they were apart. Of course the only reason I suggested it was so Trowa and Wufei could have some alone time with the two blondes.' The brunette grinned widely.

I don't like that look at all, Heero remarked.

His boyfriend laughed, arms slipping around the Japanese teen's neck. I'm just happy our lonely friends have found someone.

Heero blinked in confusion. Really? I knew Trowa was falling hard, but Wufei too?

Sure is. He never pays this much attention to anyone. He's focusing as much on Milliardo as he did on Merian. Which is a good thing. He really does need to move on.

Heero nodded in agreement. Duo slowly released the other figure, letting out a sigh.

I wish there was an easier way to find this guy or girl, he pouted.

I know. However the only way to tell if a person is a channeler is to touch the individual well healing. We can't tell where exactly the power comes from if we don't, Heero murmured.

This is going to take forever! Duo whined. His violet eyes narrowed when he felt a tug on his shirt. He glanced down, taking in the small bright blue-eyed girl with cherry red hair. She smiled shyly at him.

Well hello. Anything I can do for you, darling? the brunette inquired.

The girl carefully brought her left hand out from behind her back, showing the healer a small cinnamon colored hamster.

He's sick. Can you help him please?

I'm sure I can. What's your name, honey? the healer asked.

My name's Mariemaia, the girl announced.

Well that's a pretty name. OK, here's what we're going to do. Cup your hands together with your pet in the middle, the brunette instructed. The child quickly did what she was told.

Now I'm going to place one hand under yours and one above, Duo added. He slipped his palms against the child's hand, closing his eyes. Several seconds later the violet orbs were revealed, a smile on his face.

And all done, he announced.

The girl giggled, hugging the healer. Thank you! I'm going to tell mommy. She gave the teen a kiss on the check before dashing off.

You're really good with kids, Heero pointed out, That's probably because you're just a big child.

Duo stuck out his tongue, blowing his boyfriend a raspberry.

I'm just playing with you, Heero exclaimed.

I know. You know who's in charge in the bedroom, Duo grinned.

And you know who will just as easily kick you out, the Japanese teen pointed out.

Behaving now.

Heero shook his head as he gave his lover a peck on the check. Come on, we have more searching to do.

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

What's it like, Fei? the platinum haired individual inquired, picking up the nickname from Duo easily.

The Chinese healer hated it when the brunette called him that, however Milliardo saying it didn't bother him at all, What's what like?

Being a royal healer for the King? Is it fun?

It depends. There are many fancy parties you have to attend. When the King has company from other kingdoms we have to dress the part of royal healers. Usually though the King doesn't expect us to look and act perfect. Frankly with Duo I don't think it's possible, Wufei exclaimed.

The blonde grinned. I can see that.

Most of the royalty in this kingdom is pretty laid back. So I suppose it can be fun.

I wish I could do that, Milliardo commented, wistfully.

Maybe he could,' Wufei quickly thought. He then realized how stupid the idea was. You just met him. You're looking for a channeler, not another healer.' The Chinese teen sighed inwardly. But there is something about him. I haven't felt like this sense Merian.' His heart ached at the thought, but he shoed the feeling away. She would want you to move on and find someone else.'

Well would you look at that, the blonde said suddenly, nudging Wufei. The Chinese healer glanced up as two of their companions came into view. Brown eyes widened as he noticed the small blonde's hand held by his tall, silent friend. Never thought I would see that so soon.'

Hey you two! Any luck yet? Milliardo called out.

Quatre smiled at them, practically dragging the healer over.

Can I steal blondie here for a second? Milliardo inquired, taking his friend by the shoulders. The blonde quickly nodded, releasing Trowa's hand. After they moved a safe distance the taller individual smirked.

Moving a little fast aren't you? he teased.

The small teen blushed. I know. This is totally unlike me. I really like him thought. He's so nice to me. I'm the one that took his hand and he didn't pull away. That's something right?

I'm sure it is, the long-haired healer said reassuringly.

During this conversation, another one was a similar nature was occurring.

I never figured you to like the little defenseless ones. Although I suppose most have that need to protect, Wufei remarked.

Trowa lowered his gaze, emerald eyes focusing on the ground. I don't know what you're talking about.

You know how much I hate pulling a Duo but its pretty obvious you're fascinated with Quatre, the Chinese healer pointed out.

Not really, the brunette murmured.

You were holding his hand, Wufei stated.

Trowa found himself blushing. I can't believe they saw that.' Half way through their searching the blonde's fingers had shyly entwined with his. The brunette had almost cried out for joy, knowing the action was a deep sign of affection. He didn't let the feelings show but continued to hold Quatre's hand. He hoped the blonde figured out that his silent refusal to pull away meant that he cared. I wish I knew how to show emotions better.'

Trowa had grown up all his life in an orphanage. When his healer power happened to be viewed by a royal guard, who was visiting his hometown, he was taken to be trained as a royal healer. There he stayed by himself until his friends slowly joined his ranks. Because of this lonely upbringing the brunette really didn't know how to act around someone he liked. He'd never really cared to connect to someone on an intimate level until now.

He's the one who took my hand first, the brunette added weakly, knowing this was a sad defense and wouldn't fool anyone for even a second.

Did you pull away from him? Wufei remarked, rolling his eyes, Don't give answers that don't mean anything Trowa.

I know the healer exclaimed, trailing off as he shifted his gaze around the quiet town. I can't believe how hard it is to find a channeler.

At least you get more time with Quatre, Wufei pointed out. Ask him!' his mind screamed. You know you want Milliardo with us.' Trowa I have a question to ask.

Trowa glanced at his friend, a faint smile tracing his face for a moment before vanishing. You want Milliardo to join our group, don't you?

Wufei's eyes widened in shock. How did you know?

I'm not the only one obvious.

Trowa, is it wrong for me to feel this way? What about Merian? the Chinese healer softly stated.

The taller individual, in a rare display of caring, hugged his friend. I know you don't like being touched but I know you needed this. Merian, if she could speak beyond the grave, would want you happy. I know this and you know this.

Its hard to not feel bad about it though. Maybe with more time, Wufei murmured.

Well you'll have plenty of time to spend with him. If he wants he's welcome to join us. The King always needs more healers and will be happy we found someone we wanted to join our group.

Wufei nodded his thanks as the two blondes came around the bend.

You can have him back now Trowa, Milliardo exclaimed as he gently nudged his friend towards the tall brunette. Quatre laughed faintly at the remark, even as his cheeks turned a faint rosy color.

I suppose we should search some more, Wufei announced, I also have to talk to you about something Milliardo.

The platinum haired individual asked at him with question in his eyes before shrugging. Sure thing.

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

The small figure sat quietly, hugging his knees as he stared off into the rocky entrance to the mine that had stood there for centuries. In fact the whole reason the town had been built was to extract the rich materials that grew inside the darkened cave. The mine had long since been cleaned out and was now shut down. When he was younger however Millie and he had stuck out to play in the huge cave countless times. The mine was supposed to be off limits but no one every paid attention to that specific rule. Even now the children still played in and around the mine.

I'm going to miss him,' the blonde thought sadly. He was glad for Milliardo, he truly way. He wanted his best friend to be happy and being a royal healer would be a wonderful experience for anyone. Well anyone that could actually heal that is.' Quatre tried not to be bitter but it was hard when he knew so many people who could heal and he couldn't do anything to help the injured. Sure he could help at the healers with his sister and the others but it just wasn't the same as actually using a special gift to remove the hurt from someone else's body.

At least I can be happy for him. I'll miss him but he's heading on a much better path in life because of this, Quatre murmured.

That's the way a real friend should act. You're allowed to be sad though. It is hard when someone you've known all your life leaves. Or at least I've been told that, a voice said from behind him.

The blonde turned to smile faintly at Trowa. I know but why wouldn't you know that?

The brunette shrugged as he sat down beside the slender figure. I've never really had anyone I've been really close too until I met Duo, Heero, and Wufei. I've pretty much been a loner all my life.

That must have been very hard for you, the blonde spoke softly. He then wrapped petite arms around the other male, giving him a warm comforting hug.

I want to kiss him so badly. He's just so caring,' Trowa thought to himself as he melted into the embrace. Both suddenly broke contact when a large sound of fallen rocks emanated from the cave.

What was that? Quatre inquired in alarm.

Sounded like a cave-in to me, the healer suggested.

But that mine has been sturdy for hundreds of years. There have never been any problems in there before, the blonde protested.

It was bound to happen sooner or later, Trowa pointed out. He suddenly froze when he heard several loud shouts of help. Oh no

Some of the children must have been playing in there! Quatre exclaimed as he leaped to his feet, dashing into the mine.

Wait! It might not be safe to go in there. There might be more aftershocks from the cave-in, Trowa called out.

I don't care! The children might be hurt.

The healer sighed in frustration before bolting after the small blonde. I refuse to let him go in there alone.' He blinked as his eyes struggled to adjust to the sudden lack of light. He waited for several minutes before he could make out the blurred outline of the walls. The brunette then slid his hand onto the cold surface, using it as a guide to travel further into the mine. Pupils dilated when he reached a large cavern, lined with several lighted torches. It was in here that the rockslide had occurred, blocking the entrance to the deeper areas of the mine. He gasped when he saw the small child laying motionless on the ground, two other children and Quatre surrounding her. He quickly kneeled down beside the ground, assessing the injured girl.

Where was she hit? he asked.

One of the rocks fell on her head, one of the children answered.

Is she going to be ok? another asked, sniffing loudly as the tears covered her cheeks.

I need you two to run to the Inn and get my friends. Just ask for the royal healers and tell them I need help, Trowa instructed.

Without a word spoken the two children raced out of the mine, running as fast as their small legs could carry them. The healer gently inspected the small girl's head, swearing when he pulled his hand back and noticed the blood that covered it.

Oh no Trowa can you really do anything? Quatre whispered.

I'm not going to lie to you. It's pretty bad. I need the others to help me. I know that if we're all together though we can handle it.

Both jerked when they felt a faint vibration from the ground.

Trowa murmured, We should probably try to keep it down.

Quatre nodded in agreement. He slowly moved himself closer to Trowa, hoping that the other teen wouldn't notice how nervous he was. The vibrations continued to emanate, until the rocks began to crack around them. The blonde cried out as Trowa threw himself against him, protecting the other two. They waited for the falling rocks to stop, the place once again free of vibrations.

When the brunette was sure they were no longer in danger of being struck he pulled away, glancing up at the cavern. Damn, this isn't good.

What do you Quatre asked but trailed off when he realized the only way out was now blocked off, How are we going to help her if we're stuck?

I'm sure they can dig us out but she won't last that long, the healer remarked. He carefully went about inspecting the injured child, taking note of each bruise and bloody area. I can heal these wounds easily. It's the head wound I'm worried about. I just don't think I can do this alone.' His thoughts froze when he felt a warm hand cover his, entwining fingers together.

You can do it, Trowa. I believe in you. I'll be here to offer all the support I can although I can't help like the others I'll try my best.

Thank you, Quatre. With those final words emerald eyes closed as he placed his free hand gently on the girl's forehead. Please give me strength,' he silently prayed before beginning the healing process. Widened orbs of green shot open in an instant as he gasped, the overwhelming rush of power filling him. The affect was triple the strength it usually was, even with the channeler present in the town.

the healer murmured, as he finally realized the truth. He watched the blonde rub his forehead, smiling shyly.

I guess the blood is getting to me or something. Sorry that this always seems to happen to me, he exclaimed.

He doesn't have a clue about what he is. He's thought his whole life that it was because he couldn't stand the sight of blood.' Is there any other times were you feel like you do now? Trowa inquired.

This happens a lot. Everyone just figured that I have a weak body and have to rest myself every so often.

If he only knew the truth. He will though soon enough.' The brunette then returned his healing powers to the little girl. Trowa sighed in relieve when he felt damaged tissue begin to knit itself back together; he knew he could definitely save the child now. Thank you, Quatre.' He couldn't believe the amount of energy that radiated from the petite blonde. I'm sure with all the healing that goes on in this town he's bound to be tired constantly. He needs to be taught how to control the flow of power that comes from him.'

When he felt the last bit of flesh heal itself the brunette slowly opened his green eyes. He then checked the child's pulse, noting with satisfaction that it was beating regularly. The girl's breathing was also shallow but steady. She's just sleeping.' The healer turned to tell Quatre the good news but frowned at what he saw.

The slim male was rubbing his head softly, a pained expression across his face. When he noticed Trowa looking at him he smiled apologetically. I'm not sure what's wrong. I just feel very light headed all of a sudden. I'm sure it will eventually pass.

The royal healer said nothing as he sat with his legs crossed on the ground. He indicated for Quatre to take a seat beside him. When the younger male did as he was told, Trowa took his tiny hand in his. Do you have any clue why you always seem to feel faint?

The blonde glanced at him in surprise, shaking his head at the question.

You're who we've been searching for these past couple days. That's why you're always so tired. You've been helping the healers of this town for years and never even knew it, Trowa exclaimed.

Really? That's why I'm always so lightheaded? I always knew something was causing it but I never imaged it would be anything like this. This is amazing, Quatre remarked, his eyes sparkling with joy.

Trowa couldn't help but smile in response to the blonde's enthusiasm. His happiness is contagious.' Come with us, Quatre. Back to the Royal Kingdom. We need you with us and this way you won't have to leave Milliardo either.

The smaller boy couldn't contain himself as he jumped into Trowa's lap, hugging him tightly. I would love to. He then blushed as he realized just what he had done. Sorry about that. I can't control myself sometime. The blonde attempted to pull away but froze when the brunette stopped him, causing him to fall forward.

Trowa worked at steadying the teen, his breath catching when he realized just how close their faces were. He stared into sapphire eyes, falling into the widened orbs. He's just so beautiful I should' Before he could convince himself not to the brunette tilted his head, brushing his lips against the surprised teens.

Quatre gasped at the tender touch, his heart going wild in his chest. He then forced himself to calm down, returning the kiss. They stayed together in the moment for what seemed like hours, even though it was only a few minutes. The sound of shifting rocks jerked them from their emotional encounter. Both blinked as the blocked pathway was exposed, several bright torches flicked into their line of sight.

Well, well, did we interrupt something?

Quatre blushed as he bolted up from Trowa's lap, hiding his head behind the brunette's back. The healer glared at the four who at entered the area.

This is the thanks we get for rushing over here to help, Duo remarked, with a shake of his head.

How is the girl? I assume it was pretty bad if you needed us all to come, Wufei stated firmly, ignoring everything around him but the injured child.

Completely healed and resting comfortably, Trowa reported.

Then why did you call for us? Heero inquired.

Because it was very severe. I would never have been able to save her if it weren't for Quatre being here.

His companions gazed at him in curiosity. What do you mean? Duo asked.

Wufei's eyes widened in astonishment. You mean Quatre's the he trailed off at the smile that covered Trowa's face.

We found our channeler.

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

He scanned the perimeter of his room, searching for anything that he had forgotten. The slender figure opened each drawer in his dresser, digging through them. He then scooped up several articles of clothing, setting them carefully into his dark brown duffel bag.

Hey! Any day now, Quatre! Duo hollered from outside.

The blonde smiled as he stuck his head outside the window, eyes landing on the healer standing by his house. I'm almost done, Duo. Is Millie already finished?

Sure is. The guy sure does pack quickly. Must not have had that much he wanted to take or something.

The channeler turned when he heard a faint rap on his door. Come in.

He smiled brightly when the taller brunette entered his bedroom. Did you need help packing? he asked.

Quatre left the window to walk over to him. He gave the teen a quick kiss on the cheek in thanks for the offer. You can help me pack my clothes.

They quietly worked together to get the blonde's possessions together. When the packing was finally complete, the blonde once again kissed the healer.

I'm dying out here you two! I want to get going! You better not be making out! Duo whined.

We're not! Quatre called out, blushing as the long-haired healer burst out laughing.

Are you ready? Did you say good-bye to your family? Trowa questioned.

Quatre nodded. This is all I've ever known. I'll miss being here but this is a great new experience for me. I wouldn't miss it for the world.

Then lets get going. Time for you to see where I live and be introduced to your new home, Trowa exclaimed, as he threw one of the bags over his shoulder. Quatre quickly took the other in his hand before, walking to the door. He took one last look at his room before leaving.

I suppose we better get going before Duo comes up here and drags us down, Quatre remarked, with a giggle.

The brunette grinned softly. That's something you'll have to get used to. You have all the time in the world to figure him out.

Quatre grinned at the remarked before leaving the house, both making their way towards the other healers.

___________________________________

The End