The orphanage shooting

A scene of carnage greets Foster and Gabriel as they enter the ruins of what used to be a tall, proud building. Apparently, two deranged men had cracked the computer codes and entered the orphanage. They managed to kill twenty of the city's best and brightest young minds.

Gabriel, of course, was devastated by the loss of bonds. It was like reliving the Battlefront all over again…

"Foster, I regret to inform you that we could not save them all." The man's posture was very stiff.

"It wasn't your fault, Gabriel," Foster soothed. "You did the best you could."

Gabriel shook his head. "So why do I feel like it is my fault?"

"Because you care about all life. Because you're vulnerable when any kind of bonds are broken. Because you know that it might have been prevented."

"Peter, I would have gladly sacrificed my life for any of those orphans." It hurt Foster's heart just to think about that happening, but he was touched by his lover's sincerity.

"I know, Gabriel." Foster pulled his husband into his arms and just let Gabriel shake in his arms. Tiny cries escaped the man. "I'm here."

"You won't always be here!" Gabriel roared, pulling away from the warm embrace. "I could lose you at any time! What would happen to this, to everyone if you were killed in action, our bond broke, and I was the one left behind?"

"You would carry on," Foster said firmly. "Because you would know that is what I'd want you to do."

"I couldn't do it without you," Gabriel choked out.

"Yes you could." Foster glared at his mate.

"Yes, I could," Gabriel finally admitted. "But I would not enjoy it."

"That's what commitment is about," Foster said wisely.

"Peter?"

"Yeah?"

"I feel like simply mourning for those children isn't enough. Do you have any suggestions?"

"Meditate on what has happened. And whatever you do, don't build up a mental block and try to forget."

"Why shouldn't I?" Gabriel growled. "It would be easier."

"A wise author once said that you have to choose between what is easy and what is right."

"Do not quote literature to me," Gabriel spat, but Foster could tell from the bond that he was beginning to calm down. "I am just so, so angry at those who committed such an atrocious crime."

"Me too," Foster said diplomatically.

"You don't act like it," Gabriel pointed out.

"No. I also don't feel as deeply as you do."

"Right…" Gabriel let out a tiny sigh. "I suppose I could contact Miss Emma so that we can make plans to modify the outdated technology on the orphanage so that-"

"This will never happen again?" Foster interrupted.

"It may happen again," Gabriel said softly. "But I wish to reduce the chances."

"Very well, Mr. Jaro." They shared a quick finger kiss, a mere brushing of the forefingers. "Carry on."