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All Characters and story by Kyell Gold
", "writing": "Samaki and Kory made a fast friendship with Susan. They went to eat and study together several times in the coming weeks. They talked more than they studied, but school was nearly over, and they all seemed to have a decent hold on the course materials. Only a few more days remained until their final exams would be a thing of the past and they could look ahead at their futures after school. \n\nKory was thoughtful about the school's generous offer to give him a paid internship, and after playing out all the scenarios in his head, and some pushing from Samaki, he had decided to accept the offer and secure his future as a teacher at Forrester University. Samaki however was not as fortunate. His prospects for an internship in journalism had seemed to dry up. His professor's friend still hadn't called him back and several calls to the paper's human resources department led nowhere. Samaki had expanded his prospects by applying at several other news agencies across the state, including TV and radio news stations. \n\nSamaki was very quiet as the trio of friends sat at their sidewalk table at the pizza place they frequented. Kory and Susan both noticed and looked at one another before Susan prodded the fox. \n\n``What's the matter Sami?'' Said Susan. ``Why do you seem so distant today?''\n\nSamaki shrugged. ``I don't really know. I've been applying to so many jobs and haven't heard back from any of them yet. It's really starting to annoy me.''\n\nKory nuzzled Samaki under his chin. ``It's OK hon. You'll find something soon enough. I'm sure there are a lot of people applying for positions now that it's at the end of school at other universities. Just keep trying and don't give up.''\n\nSamaki smiled at Kory. ``I'm not giving up, but I'll need something to support myself in the meantime. I may just take the offer from State for the Janitor's job. It won't be so bad working with my dad after all.''\n\nKory smiled. ``Yeah, it'll only be temporary, until someone gets to your application and calls you.''\n\nSusan smiled at the pair. ``You two are really such a sweet couple. I wish more people could be so affectionate towards one another. The world would be a much better place.''\n\nSusan's thoughts were interrupted by a paw landing on her shoulder and squeezing gently, distracting the trio and making them all look up at the person just behind Susan. An older, rough looking brown fox stood there, looking down at Susan and smirking at her. ``You know, I haven't seen you around in a while now Candi. I've been trying to find you at some of the other clubs since the raid.''\n\nKory looked at Susan. ``Candi?''\n\nSusan glanced at Kory and Samaki with a pleading look in her eyes, then back at the stranger. ``I'm sorry sir, I think you have me mixed up with someone else.''\n\nThe Gruff fox laughed them moved around beside Susan. ``You know, I spent a lot of money on you, with the number of times you've danced on my lap and shook those tits at me I would know that body anywhere. I think you owe me something.'' The fox leaned in and tried to give Susan a kiss, but she slid out of her seat and stood beside Kory. ``Look mister, I'm just trying to have dinner with my friends. I don't appreciate how presumptive you are being towards me. Said Susan, now standing behind Kory and Samaki and keeping them between her and the advances of the fox.\n\nSamaki spoke up at the fox. ``I think you have made a mistake pal. How about you just leave the lady alone and go about your business.''\n\nThe middle-aged fox eyed Samaki with a sneer across his muzzle, looking at him judgingly. ``I don't see what business it is of yours kid. I've invested a lot of cash into her, and I just want a little something in return. I think I deserve it after searching for her for as long as I have.''\n\nSamaki stood and eyed the scruffy fox as he moved around the table slowly. ``Look mister. No one wants any trouble here. We just want to be left alone to eat in peace. I suggest you leave. Now.''\n\nThe older fox growled and bared his teeth angrily at Samaki, followed by a swing of his fist in the vicinity of Samaki's face. Samaki anticipated the attack and swung his head away from the attack, before moving in and connecting a blow to the attacker's midsection. The scuffle allowing Kory and Susan to scamper out of the way and raise awareness from the rest of the patrons of the trouble. \n\nThe Brown fox recoiled at the blow but recovered quickly, pulling a knife out of his belt and pointing it at Samaki. ``You fucked with the wrong fox kid. I'm going to have to teach you some manners.'' \n\nSamaki stared at the knife as it was lunged at him, forcing him to shuffle around to keep his attacker at bay. The fox slashed wildly at Samaki repeatedly, causing him to lose his balance momentarily and gave Samaki an opportunity to kick the older fox in his groin. The intense look of pain replaced the sneer on the older fox's face as his body immediately reacted to the attack. Samaki followed up with several punches across the Fox's brown and white muzzle, causing him to drop the knife from his paw and collapse onto the sidewalk. \n\nSamaki remained in a defensive posture in front of Kory and Susan, who were huddled together just behind him. Waiting to see if the Fox tried to attack again. His focus was interrupted by the owner and some of the kitchen staff rushing out. ``What's going on out here?'' Said the owner, a short but stocky raccoon. ``Why are you bothering my customers?'' now shouting at the brown fox, still laying on the ground and trying to catch his breath. ``Harry. Call the police. See if they can take care of this hoodlum.''\n\nStill in obvious pain the gruff fox stood and sneered at Samaki. ``You haven't seen the last of me boy. You better watch your ass.'' Samaki stood his ground in a defensive posture as the older fox limped away from the fight. Kory and Susan watched the attacker flee as they came to Samaki's side. ``Are you all right?'' Kory asked. ``That was scary. I thought he was going to really hurt you.'' \n\n``Yeah, I'm all right. Are you OK Susan?'' Samaki said as he turned to the obviously shaken otter. \n\n``Y...yeah, just shaken up a bit. Thanks for protecting me from that jerk.'' She said as the fear expressed itself into visible shaking in the otter's face and paws.\n\nKory looked at the pair, obviously relieved at the end of the episode. ``Maybe we should get out of here, in case he comes back.''\n\nThe pizzeria owner approached the trio and smiled. ``I'm very sorry this happened to you. Ever since they opened those bars around here this has become more of a regular instance than I care to admit. You're welcome to stay and finish your meal, or I'll make sure that it gets packed up to take with you, either way your meal is on the house.'' \n\nKory and Samaki smiled at the raccoon, thanking him profusely. ``What would you like to do? Stay and eat or go back to the dorm?'' Kory asked Susan. \n\n``I think I'm OK now. But we may be better off heading back. The food should still be warm when we get back.'' Susan said in the direction of the owner, who nodded and hurried back to the kitchen to prepare their order to go.\n\nSamaki sat and looked at Susan quizzically. ``Candi? Is that something from your last career?''\n\nSusan nodded and looked very uncomfortable in her seat. ``No one used their real names, just stage names. That was to keep a degree of separation from the job and a level of safety against guys like that, who think they deserve more than they get at the bar.''\n\n``Is that something that happened a lot?'' Asked Kory. \n\nSusan shook her head. ``Thankfully no. But you would hear about similar things happening from time to time. Most usually ended in some hurt feelings, but sometimes...'' Susan looked away from Kory ashamedly.\n\n``It's OK Susan. You can't help how some people are. There are a lot of jerks in the world.'' Samaki said as he put his paw on Susan's shoulder, reassuring her.\n\nSusan returned the gesture, smiling and putting her paw on the fox's and patting it. ``Thanks Sami. I guess I'm still a bit shaken up.''\n\nThe raccoon returned to the trio just then, with a pizza box and shopping bag full of food. ``Here you go. I made sure to give you plenty of food and some drinks. I'm sorry once again, I hope you visit us again soon. You're always welcome here.''\n\nKory smiled and thanked him, handing the shopping bag over to Samaki while taking the pizza box. Samaki returned the gesture of thanks to the raccoon, smiling and helping Susan to her feet so they could take their leave.\n\nThe trio walked down the sidewalk towards the dorms, Samaki's nose filled with the scents of the food they carried. ``I think he gave us enough food to last a week. It smells wonderful.''\n\nKory smiled and nodded. ``It seems like it, he really didn't have to do that. I'm not going to complain though.''\n\nThe light turned Green, allowing the small group of friends to start crossing the boulevard toward the dorms. Kory laughed as he recollected the way Samaki heroically stood up for Susan. ``Oh Samaki, you're my hero.'' Kory said in a high-pitched voice, imitating Susan. ``Please save me, come to my rescue.'' Susan laughed and swatted playfully at Kory, making him giggle and protect his head with his paws. Samaki laughed from behind the two otters as they continued across the street. \n\nKory's banter was interrupted when he felt a shove from behind that sent him hurtling towards the sidewalk. The otter tried to catch his step but found himself falling unceremoniously toward the sidewalk headfirst. Unable to stop his momentum, his feet fell out from under him, letting gravity take hold. Kory landed headfirst on the concrete sidewalk. Instantly, the otter felt a searing pain, and heard a high-pitched ringing in his ears, disorienting him. His body went completely limp, and his world went black.\n\nKory awoke to the sounds of people rushing around him. Opening his eyes revealed a sea of unfamiliar faces all around him. Flashing lights, and the commotion of people rushing all around him added to the confusion he found himself in. Kory looked around and realized there were several police officers and firemen bustling around with equipment. Another group of firemen knelt in the roadway several feet away, as he was distracted by the face of a lioness appearing in front of him. \n\n``He's awake again.'' She said to the others around them before kneeling closer to Kory's face. ``Can you hear me? You're going to be all right, do you understand me?''\n\nKory tried to speak but found he was unable to form words. He knew they were talking to him, but he couldn't answer. ``What's happening to me?'' He thought to himself. Kory then felt himself being moved as the rescue team wheeled him into the back of an ambulance. The cool night air was replaced by the stale, humid air of an oxygen mask and the bright lights appearing above him made him squint his eyes closed. All he knew for certain was that his head hurt, there was a loud ringing in his ears, and he was badly disoriented. He was helpless and felt out of control of his own body. As the ambulance doors closed, he felt his clothing being removed and unseen paws checking various areas, disorienting him even further. Kory closed his eyes and blackness overtook him once again.\n\nKory slowly regained some feeling of awareness, his eyes remained closed, but he could sense some of his surroundings again. His body was regaining control of itself, allowing him to move slightly. He slowly tried to move his legs and arms, but they felt like rubber and hurt so much it made him groan. Kory felt a paw squeezing his, it felt warm and reassuring and he gave it a squeeze back. The otter tried to open his eyes, but the light hurt them, making his vision blurry and unable to focus. Kory looked at the large blob that was next to him. He blinked several times to clear his vision, allowing his eyes to slowly adjust and focus on the figure by his side. \n\n``Hi Kory, it's good to have you back.'' Said the dark figure by his side. Kory squinted his eyes to try and limit the light, which allowed them to make out someone hovering over him. Slowly his eyes came into focus, where he saw a thin black muzzle, with a splash of White fur on the underside. He followed the muzzle up to a pair of beautiful violet eyes, looking down at him with an expression of love and concern. Beyond those eyes were a pair of Black ears, partially laid back against the figure's head. Slowly the otter's brain formed a memory from the pieces he was viewing. Kory suddenly felt his heart beat harder than it was just a few moments ago. His mind filled with thoughts of love for this... this... fox! Was it Samaki? Yes... it must be. This is Samaki! \n\nKory's vision cleared more, allowing him to look upon the fox that he loved more than anything. ``Samaki? Is that you? I'm so happy to see you.'' Kory said weakly. \n\n``Yes love. It's me. How do you feel?'' The fox asked.\n\nKory tried to sit up but suddenly thought against it as his body protested painfully. ``I'm so sore. What happened? Where am I?''\n\nSamaki helped Kory sit up in bed slowly, adjusting the bed and putting a couple of pillows behind him to make him more comfortable. ``There was an accident. I pushed you and Susan out of the path of a car that ran the red light. Unfortunately, you hit your head on the sidewalk and got knocked out. They brought you to the hospital and you're in Intensive Care right now. You've been pretty much out cold for two days.''\n\n``T... Two days? Are you serious?'' Kory asked in disbelief. ``What about Susan, Is she all right?''\n\n``I'm afraid not. Susan caught a glancing blow off the bumper of the car and broke her leg pretty badly. She's in another hospital where they've sent her into surgery. They said it looks like she'll survive but they aren't sure about saving her leg yet.'' Samaki said with a sad face. \n\n``My god. I don't remember much of anything before waking up here. I'm glad that you're the first person I saw though. I think I would have freaked out if you weren't here.'' Kory said with an exasperated sigh. ``Thank you hon.''\n\nSamaki smiled and leaned in to give the otter a loving kiss on his muzzle, allowing Kory to relax as he returned the kiss. \n\nAfter several seconds, the two lovers broke the kiss and they both smiled as Samaki sat back down at the side of Kory's bed. ``I can't stay much longer I'm afraid. The nurse will be in here to check on you shortly and she can't find me here with you.'' Samaki looked away from Kory, as a tear ran down his cheek. ``I couldn't stay away from you though. I needed to be here for you when you woke up. I needed you to know that everything is going to be all right.'' Samaki turned back, looking into Kory's eyes and smiled genuinely at his otter. ``I needed to tell you that you're the best thing that ever happened to me Kory. I love you.''\n\nKory smiled back at Samaki, wiping the tears from his fox's cheeks. ``Samaki, I know that I've been a paw full over these last 5 years, but you've always been there for me. With everything that's happened, you've been that constant push of sanity that I've needed to get past any crisis.'' Kory took Samaki's paw in his. ``I could never tell you in words just how much you've meant to me. You're my everything hon. I love you.''\n\nSamaki smiled, leaning down and pressing his lips against Kory's. The pair enjoyed sharing this loving moment as long as they could, before the fox broke the kiss and rested his head gently on the otter's head. ``I'm afraid I have to go now Kory. You're going to be all right hon. You just get some rest and you'll be out of here in no time.''\n\nKory reached his paw up to caress Samaki's cheek and smiled up at him. ``Don't worry hon. You've made me feel better than anything just by being here. I'll get out of here and we can be together again.'' \n\nSamaki smiled and stepped back from the side of the bed, backing towards the doorway slowly. ``We'll be together again soon enough. Now you just lay back in bed and get some rest. Promise?''\n\nKory sighed and smiled as he watched the fox. ``OK, I promise. Thank you love.'' Kory laid his head back on the pillows, the smile staying on his face as he relaxed once again, watching as Samaki disappeared from the room into the hallway. The otter closed his eyes again, and quickly fell asleep.\n\nKory was awakened by someone jostling the bed, adjusting his pillows. Kory opened his eyes and saw a middle-aged female aardvark in a nurse's uniform. She was changing the bag on his IV when she noticed he was looking up at her. \n\n``Well, hello there. I'm glad to see you're finally awake. I'm Carol, you're in Capitol General Hospital in the ICU. I'm one of the nurses taking care of you. Are you feeling any discomfort or pain?''\n\nKory smiled at the nurse shaking his head slowly before realizing that was a bad idea. ``I'm OK Carol. I'm sore but as comfortable as I can be, I think.''\n\nCarol checked his vital signs and looked over his bandages. ``I'm going to call the doctor in charge of you and let him know that you're awake. I'm sure he'll want to see you right away. If you need anything you just need to press this button.'' As she held a small handheld controller with a blue button on it. ``We'll see your signal at the nurse's station and come over as soon as we can.''\n\nKory smiled at the nurse and watched her put the button at the side of his bed rail, where could reach it easily if he needed it. ``Thank you.''\n\n``You're quite welcome dear.'' She said, then turned and headed back out into the hallway. \n\nA short time later, carol returned with a younger male feline by her side. He looked like a cheetah or a leopard, but Kory never could tell the differences between the two. ``Hello Kory. I'm Dr. Holiday and I've been taking care of you during your visit with us. How are you feeling?''\n\n``I think I'm OK, sore and a little weaker than usual, but OK.'' Said Kory.\n\n``That's to be expected for someone with a concussion.'' Said Dr. Holiday as he looked over Kory's chart. ``You took a pretty good knock on the head and received a few cuts and bruises, but it looks like you're improving thanks to the wonderful care you've been receiving from the nurses here.'' Carol couldn't help but smile at the compliment as the doctor put the chart down and shone a light into Kory's eyes. The light was very bright, and it made him wince, but he knew it was necessary for the Doctor to evaluate him properly. Carol and the Doctor then pulled the curtains closed to keep anyone passing by in the hallway from seeing into the room, and then carefully slid the blankets and sheets down, revealing his mostly nude body to them. Kory blushed but he knew this couldn't be the first time they've seen him undressed so he tried to relax as best as he could. Carol smiled and casually adjusted his gown to cover his groin as best as the frail fabric was able, making Kory smile up at her. \n\nThe Doctor performed several tests to check if he had proper control of his legs and arms, checking his strength and feeling before moving to his hips and belly. The doctor was thorough in his examination, but Kory managed through it with a stiff upper lip. Once the Doctor finished listening to Kory's chest, he wrote some notes in his chart. ``Kory, I think I'm going to let you be moved to a step-down unit. You'll still have the attention you'll need from us but will be able to have visitors. If everything goes well, you should be able to be released in a couple of days. How does this sound to you?''\n\nKory smiled at the Doctor. ``Yes. Please. If you think I'm all right.''\n\n``Very well Kory.'' Said Dr. Holiday. ``We'll make the arrangements and have you moved by tomorrow morning at the latest. I'll leave you in Carol's capable paws now and if you need anything, just ask one of the nurses to call me.'' \n\nKory nodded and smiled. ``Thanks again Dr. Holiday. Thanks for everything.''\n\nCarol covered and tucked Kory back into his bed, making sure his pillows were placed in a comfortable position, as Dr. Holiday put Kory's chart back on the end of his bed and headed out of the room. \n\n``Get some rest Kory, just press the button if you need anything.'' Carol said with a smile.\n\nKory returned the smile. ``Actually, do you know if my cell phone is around anywhere?'' \n\nCarol walked over to the small closet and opened the door, pulling out a white bag marked ``Patient's Belongings'' and placed it on the bed at Kory's feet. Opening the bag, she pulled out what remained of his clothes, cut off by the rescuers to evaluate and treat him for his injuries. At the bottom of the bag, she pulled out a small clear bag that had his wallet, some change, and his cell phone. Kory smiled as she handed the smaller bag to Kory, allowing him to open it and retrieve his cell phone. Kory's elation dwindled when he realized the battery was dead. Kory's charger was back at the dorm and the phone had been sitting since he arrived at the hospital. \n\n``Any chance someone has a charger for this?'' Kory asked the nurse as he held up the phone for her to see. \n\nCarol pondered for a moment. ``I'm not sure but I'll ask around for you. Hold on to it and if someone has a charger, I'll send them in to you.'' \n\nKory smiled and returned the phone to the bag. ``Thanks. I appreciate it.''\n\nKory laid back on his pillows and closed his eyes as the nurse left the room to allow him some rest. Kory thought of Samaki and wished he was still there with him, but he knew he would see him again very soon. This thought made him smile and put him at ease, allowing him to relax and fall asleep.\n\nThe next morning Kory was woken up by the sunlight entering the room through the window. He looked around and thought to himself. ``Geez I slept a long time. I must have really needed the rest.'' The otter stretched himself as best as he could and sat himself up slowly. \n\nThe nurse came into the room and smiled at Kory. ``Good morning. It's time to move you to your new ward.'' The nurse went about checking Kory's vital signs and helping him prepare to be moved into a new room, removing the bags of his belongings from the closet and placing them at the foot of the bed. \n\nKory smiled at the nurse and orderly as they prepared a stretcher to take him away. ``I can probably walk there.'' Said Kory before being interrupted by the nurse. Now now, we'll have no such thing for you young man. You're going to go first class.'' Kory sighed and shimmied onto the stretcher with the orderly's help and covered himself in the blankets, trying to get comfortable for the short trip. \n\nAfter getting all of Kory's belongings situated on the stretcher and making sure all his paperwork was in order, the nurse shook Kory's hand and wished him well, giving the orderly the go ahead to wheel Kory to his new ward. Some of the nurses wished their best to Kory as he was wheeled slowly from the ICU and into the elevator. The short ride was over in no time as he was wheeled into another section of the hospital and stopped by the nurse's station. An older Possum with the greyest fur Kory had ever seen looked up at the orderly. ``This must be our new guest from the ICU.'' The nurse smiled at Kory and greeted him as she took his paperwork and examined it briefly, then told the orderly to take him to room 2144. ``I'll be in shortly to make sure you're ok. The nurse in that section will meet you in the room and make sure you're transferred into your bed and comfortable.'' \n\nKory smiled and thanked the nurse before being wheeled into the room. The orderly put Kory's belongings in the closet just as another nurse, a short red panda, entered the room. ``Welcome to your new home for the next few days. My name is Lin and if you need anything I'll be happy to assist you. Let's get you set up in your bed and make sure we get your lunch ordered.'' \n\nKory shimmied into the bed and made himself comfortable as he was very happy to get off the transport stretcher and into a real bed. The nurse made sure Kory was comfortable and took great care to explain how the bed and TV controls worked. Nurse Lin took a pitcher from the table and filled it with ice and some water from the small kitchenette just beside the nurse's station. She placed it back on the table and gave Kory a straw so he would be able to sip the water easily. \n\nKory thanked the nurse before she left to attend to other patients. Kory turned the TV on and flipped through the channels until he found something interesting to watch. Kory laid back in the bed and fell asleep again after a few minutes.\n\nKory woke up some time later and noticed there were people in the room. He tried to focus through his sleep hazed eyes as they noticed him waking up and moved to his bedside.\n\n``Hey Kory.'' Said the familiar voice of his brother. ``Man, you look like shit.''\n\n``Gee thanks. I feel like shit too.'' Said Kory half jokingly.\n\n``Nick, that's not very nice.'' Said the other voice in the room. Kory focused his eyes and saw the smiling face of Mrs. Roden looking at Nick and wagging her finger at him scoldingly. \n\nNick laughed slightly and nuzzled his brother carefully. ``I'm glad that you're all right. We were really worried about you.''\n\n``I'm OK Nick. Just a bit sore that's all.'' Said Kory. \n\nThe vixen took Kory's paw into hers and smiled at him. ``Yes Kory. Everyone has been very concerned about you. Your mother even called me to find out what happened and asked me to take care of you while she tried to get a flight here.'' \n\nKory groaned at the thought of his mother showing up at his bedside. ``How did she find out anyway?''\n\n``I called her Kory. Even with everything that's happened she deserves to know if you've been hurt. She's still our mother after all.''\n\n``I suppose, but she doesn't need to come here. I'll be out of here soon enough.'' Kory said in an exasperated voice.\n\n``That's your choice Kory, but I'm not going to tell her not to come.'' Said Mrs. Roden. ``I'll tell her what your condition is and let her decide for herself. You still have a bit of healing to get through here.''\n\nKory sighed softly. ``Yes, I know you're right. Thank you for taking care of things for me. Both of you.''\n\nThe vixen smiled. ``That's what family does Kory. We'll always be here for you.''\n\nKory smiled. ``Where's Samaki? I thought he would have been here too.''\n\nThe expression on the vixen's face changed to one Kory couldn't read easily. He looked over at Nick, who stepped over to look out of the window. \n\n``Did he get caught trying to sneak in to see me again?'' Kory asked. ``I told him not to get himself in trouble.''\n\n``Kory? What did you just say?'' Asked Mrs. Roden.\n\nKory looked up at the vixen apologetically. ``I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get Samaki in trouble. He snuck into the ICU the other night and made sure I was all right. He told me he'd see me again soon and that I needed to concentrate on getting well again. He left the room before the Nurse came back but I guess he got caught.''\n\nMrs. Roden looked down at Kory with tears streaming down her face, her mouth was agape, and it looked like she was going to faint. Nick placed his paw on her shoulder as he moved beside her and spoke. ``Kory. I don't know how that could be possible.'' \n\n``What do you mean? Asked Kory, a look of confusion washing across his face. ``Samaki didn't get arrested or something, did he?''\n\nNick closed his eyes and took a deep breath. ``Kory. Samaki.... Samaki was.... killed in the accident.''\n\nKory stared at Nick. ``Nick. That's not funny.''\n\nNick's expression stayed stoic as he squeezed Mrs. Roden's shoulder. ``Kory. I don't think you realize what happened. Apparently when you were crossing the street, a car ran the light. Samaki must have seen it first and pushed you and Susan out of the way. You apparently fell onto the sidewalk and hit your head. Samaki was hit full force and thrown into another car that was parked on the block. Susan was injured badly but she's still alive.''\n\nKory looked at his brother then at Mrs. Roden, looking for some sign that this was some kind of cruel joke. ``That... that's impossible. Samaki was in my room the other night. He held my paw, I felt it. We kissed one another.''\n\nNick interrupted his brother. ``Kory, you hit your head pretty hard. You must have imagined it. It couldn't have happened.''\n\nKory stared and started breathing heavily. His face was full of several emotions at once. His mind was racing, replaying the events he remembered so clearly. Mrs. Roden sat in the chair beside Kory's bed, her paws held his and trembled. Tears continued to run down her cheeks as she sat there and squeezed his paw. Kory realized that this was no joke. This was heartfelt emotion from a woman who... who just lost her son. Kory started to cry softly, which slowly turned into a wailing expression of sorrow. Nick was crying now as well, his defensive walls breaking down along with Kory's as he leaned in and held his brother tightly. The nurse, hearing the commotion, stepped into the room, looked at the trio briefly and realized what was happening, she then slowly closed the door and retreated into the corridor to give them some privacy. Kory was bawling like a baby now, the weight of the realization that Samaki, the love of his life, was never coming back. He closed his eyes tightly as tears made it impossible to see as his body convulsed with emotion overwhelming him. \n\nKory cried in anguish, his emotions brought to bear and releasing all at once. He felt a set of paws on his shoulders, squeezing gently and a face nuzzling against his ears. His ears perked up at the touch allowing him to hear a male voice calling his name gently. ``Kory my love. Are you all right?''\n\nThe soothing voice allowed him to calm down slightly, controlling his wailing but still unable to stop the tears flowing from his eyes, obscuring his vision. The gentle paws rubbed along his shoulders, reassuring him and telling him he was not alone in how he felt. Kory somehow knew this, but he couldn't comprehend how this was possible. No one should be behind him if he's laying in a hospital bed, yet the squeezing and caressing continued. \n\nKory choked back his emotions a bit more and wiped his eyes, allowing them to clear somewhat but confusing him even more. He was no longer in the hospital room, he was seated at a large oak desk, in a room with several books on shelves built into the wall across from him. His paws rested on a thick photo album filled with pictures of Samaki and him, together in happier times. He rubbed his paw across the plastic covered pages, stopping on a news article about the accident with Samaki's picture taken for the yearbook just days earlier. The soothing voice reassured him once again. ``That's it hon. You're all right now. Come back to me.'' Kory looked around at the source of the soothing voice and saw a handsome ferret with brown and white fur staring at him with worried but knowing eyes. Kory instantly snapped back into reality and hugged the ferret tightly. ``Oh Jerry, I'm sorry. I lost myself once again.''\n\nJerry hugged Kory back and caressed his back softly. ``It's OK dearest, I know how hard it is for you this time of year. I'm here for you.''\n\nKory looked down at his feet, ashamed that he allowed his emotions to engross him and manipulate his emotions. Jerry placed a paw under Kory's chin and raised his face up to look into Kory's eyes. ``Don't be ashamed Kory. Do you want to talk about it?''\n\nKory sighed and nodded as the ferret pulled up a chair next to Kory. ``Ten years today. It's been Ten whole years and I can't let go of the memories. I know it's hard to move on, but why is it so hard for me?''\n\nJerry nodded. ``Kory, Samaki was your best friend, and he was your first real love. He helped you realize who you were at a time when you didn't even know yourself. Your emotional attachment is extremely strong with him. You miss him very much, and on the date of his passing you subconsciously grieve in a way that engrosses you with memories and feelings. I understand whole heartedly and there's nothing wrong with this.''\n\n``Jerry, I know your training, and experience tells you how to say these things, but I'm not sure that I can easily agree with it. I do miss him and grieve as much as anyone would in the same situation, but is it normal to completely lose touch with reality when I do?''\n\nJerry Held Kory's paws in his. ``Yes, it is. No one can say what course of grieving is right or wrong. Every situation is different, but you can always come back to reality, with me, your loving husband.''\n\nKory smiled sheepishly and sniffled. ``Yes honey, I know you're here for me. You've been there since the accident and then some. That's why I fell in love with you so easily. You have been supporting me and caring for me when it felt like no one else was able to. I will always have a place in my heart for Samaki, my first real love and savior, but you're here with me now and hopefully always will be.''\n\nJerry smiled and kissed Kory lovingly on his lips. ``I'm always going to be here love, just as I know you're there for me when I need you too. We fell in love with each other because we knew we'd support and care for one another like no one else could.''\n\nKory kissed Jerry back and smiled. ``Eight years and counting now. With many more years to go.''\n\n``Are we still planning on visiting Samaki next week?'' Asked Jerry. ``Were you able to contact Mrs. Roden about joining us?''\n\n``Yes, I told her we'd be coming to visit, and she sounded very pleased.'' Said Kory. ``She'll make sure all the children are there too. It's been a long time since I've been able to see them all. Not since Mr. Roden passed away a few years ago.''\n\n``it's a real shame too.'' Jerry replied. ``She has been through so much in just a few years. She's a very strong woman, and she has the love and support of her children to keep her going.''\n\n``And us also.'' Said Kory. ``We're just as much her family as anyone else could be, even if not by blood.''\n\nJerry smiled. ``It's because of her resolve after Mr. Roden passed away that I decided to shift my counseling practice to grief counseling. I knew then and there what my true calling was. I owe her as much as anyone for enlightening me as she did.''\n\nKory ran his paw across the pages of the photo album again before closing it softly and placing it on the shelf where it belonged. ``Would you like to go out for dinner tonight? We can go to that Italian restaurant you like so much.''\n\n``That would be lovely.'' Said Jerry as he slid his paws around the otter and kissed him on the cheek from behind. ``I'm ready as soon as you are dear.''\n\nThe pair kissed each other briefly as Jerry opened the door and they walked out of their house, holding paws as the heavy door closed behind them. \n\nThe End.\n\nEpilogue.\n\nLife as we know it can be compared to the journey of water, as reflected on by Kyell Gold in the original novel Waterways. Life starts as a small trickle of water, growing and moving into the streams, then expanding into rivers, and finally settling into the ocean. Sometimes the journey can be smooth and casual, and other times it may be rocky and turbulent. As any of us go through life, we never know what our futures may hold, what paths we will follow, or what our destination will be. The only certainty is that there will be a certain amount of turmoil and strife to deal with, but rest assured that over time it will smooth itself out and settle into a great sea of peaceful tranquility. \n\nEveryone at one time or another needs some caring words, a warm hug, or even just a friend to listen to them. Never be afraid to show someone that all is not hopeless, no matter how much despair they are experiencing, things will improve.\n\nI would like to thank Kyell Gold, who was wise and imaginative enough to write and publish the original Waterways novel 14 years ago. I am eternally grateful to him for sharing the stories in his writings, inspiring myself and many others to see who we really are and give us the strength to overcome the hardships we experience.\n\nMy thanks also go out to you, the readers who not only allowed me to express myself in my writings, but to those who have offered many words of encouragement and support as I wrote and posted these chapters. I know I'm not a professional author, but there is as much of my own heart and imagination in my writings as can be expressed. \n\nI truly hope that this is not the finale for Kory and Samaki or any of the other characters expressed in these pages. With any luck, someone with just as much imagination and inspiration will pick up the reigns and remodel the characters again, bringing even more stories of the lives of our favorite otter and fox. \n\nT.B.\n\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "Samaki and Kory made a fast friendship with Susan. They went to eat and study together several times in the coming weeks. They talked more than they studied, but school was nearly over, and they all seemed to have a decent hold on the course materials. Only a few more days remained until their final exams would be a thing of the past and they could look ahead at their futures after school.

Kory was thoughtful about the school's generous offer to give him a paid internship, and after playing out all the scenarios in his head, and some pushing from Samaki, he had decided to accept the offer and secure his future as a teacher at Forrester University. Samaki however was not as fortunate. His prospects for an internship in journalism had seemed to dry up. His professor's friend still hadn't called him back and several calls to the paper's human resources department led nowhere. Samaki had expanded his prospects by applying at several other news agencies across the state, including TV and radio news stations.

Samaki was very quiet as the trio of friends sat at their sidewalk table at the pizza place they frequented. Kory and Susan both noticed and looked at one another before Susan prodded the fox.

``What's the matter Sami?'' Said Susan. ``Why do you seem so distant today?''

Samaki shrugged. ``I don't really know. I've been applying to so many jobs and haven't heard back from any of them yet. It's really starting to annoy me.''

Kory nuzzled Samaki under his chin. ``It's OK hon. You'll find something soon enough. I'm sure there are a lot of people applying for positions now that it's at the end of school at other universities. Just keep trying and don't give up.''

Samaki smiled at Kory. ``I'm not giving up, but I'll need something to support myself in the meantime. I may just take the offer from State for the Janitor's job. It won't be so bad working with my dad after all.''

Kory smiled. ``Yeah, it'll only be temporary, until someone gets to your application and calls you.''

Susan smiled at the pair. ``You two are really such a sweet couple. I wish more people could be so affectionate towards one another. The world would be a much better place.''

Susan's thoughts were interrupted by a paw landing on her shoulder and squeezing gently, distracting the trio and making them all look up at the person just behind Susan. An older, rough looking brown fox stood there, looking down at Susan and smirking at her. ``You know, I haven't seen you around in a while now Candi. I've been trying to find you at some of the other clubs since the raid.''

Kory looked at Susan. ``Candi?''

Susan glanced at Kory and Samaki with a pleading look in her eyes, then back at the stranger. ``I'm sorry sir, I think you have me mixed up with someone else.''

The Gruff fox laughed them moved around beside Susan. ``You know, I spent a lot of money on you, with the number of times you've danced on my lap and shook those tits at me I would know that body anywhere. I think you owe me something.'' The fox leaned in and tried to give Susan a kiss, but she slid out of her seat and stood beside Kory. ``Look mister, I'm just trying to have dinner with my friends. I don't appreciate how presumptive you are being towards me. Said Susan, now standing behind Kory and Samaki and keeping them between her and the advances of the fox.

Samaki spoke up at the fox. ``I think you have made a mistake pal. How about you just leave the lady alone and go about your business.''

The middle-aged fox eyed Samaki with a sneer across his muzzle, looking at him judgingly. ``I don't see what business it is of yours kid. I've invested a lot of cash into her, and I just want a little something in return. I think I deserve it after searching for her for as long as I have.''

Samaki stood and eyed the scruffy fox as he moved around the table slowly. ``Look mister. No one wants any trouble here. We just want to be left alone to eat in peace. I suggest you leave. Now.''

The older fox growled and bared his teeth angrily at Samaki, followed by a swing of his fist in the vicinity of Samaki's face.  Samaki anticipated the attack and swung his head away from the attack, before moving in and connecting a blow to the attacker's midsection. The scuffle allowing Kory and Susan to scamper out of the way and raise awareness from the rest of the patrons of the trouble.

The Brown fox recoiled at the blow but recovered quickly, pulling a knife out of his belt and pointing it at Samaki. ``You fucked with the wrong fox kid. I'm going to have to teach you some manners.''

Samaki stared at the knife as it was lunged at him, forcing him to shuffle around to keep his attacker at bay. The fox slashed wildly at Samaki repeatedly, causing him to lose his balance momentarily and gave Samaki an opportunity to kick the older fox in his groin. The intense look of pain replaced the sneer on the older fox's face as his body immediately reacted to the attack. Samaki followed up with several punches across the Fox's brown and white muzzle, causing him to drop the knife from his paw and collapse onto the sidewalk.

Samaki remained in a defensive posture in front of Kory and Susan, who were huddled together just behind him. Waiting to see if the Fox tried to attack again. His focus was interrupted by the owner and some of the kitchen staff rushing out. ``What's going on out here?'' Said the owner, a short but stocky raccoon. ``Why are you bothering my customers?'' now shouting at the brown fox, still laying on the ground and trying to catch his breath. ``Harry. Call the police. See if they can take care of this hoodlum.''

Still in obvious pain the gruff fox stood and sneered at Samaki. ``You haven't seen the last of me boy. You better watch your ass.'' Samaki stood his ground in a defensive posture as the older fox limped away from the fight. Kory and Susan watched the attacker flee as they came to Samaki's side. ``Are you all right?'' Kory asked. ``That was scary. I thought he was going to really hurt you.''

``Yeah, I'm all right. Are you OK Susan?'' Samaki said as he turned to the obviously shaken otter.

``Y...yeah, just shaken up a bit. Thanks for protecting me from that jerk.'' She said as the fear expressed itself into visible shaking in the otter's face and paws.

Kory looked at the pair, obviously relieved at the end of the episode. ``Maybe we should get out of here, in case he comes back.''

The pizzeria owner approached the trio and smiled. ``I'm very sorry this happened to you. Ever since they opened those bars around here this has become more of a regular instance than I care to admit. You're welcome to stay and finish your meal, or I'll make sure that it gets packed up to take with you, either way your meal is on the house.''

Kory and Samaki smiled at the raccoon, thanking him profusely. ``What would you like to do? Stay and eat or go back to the dorm?'' Kory asked Susan.

``I think I'm OK now. But we may be better off heading back. The food should still be warm when we get back.'' Susan said in the direction of the owner, who nodded and hurried back to the kitchen to prepare their order to go.

Samaki sat and looked at Susan quizzically. ``Candi? Is that something from your last career?''

Susan nodded and looked very uncomfortable in her seat. ``No one used their real names, just stage names. That was to keep a degree of separation from the job and a level of safety against guys like that, who think they deserve more than they get at the bar.''

``Is that something that happened a lot?'' Asked Kory.

Susan shook her head. ``Thankfully no. But you would hear about similar things happening from time to time. Most usually ended in some hurt feelings, but sometimes...'' Susan looked away from Kory ashamedly.

``It's OK Susan. You can't help how some people are. There are a lot of jerks in the world.'' Samaki said as he put his paw on Susan's shoulder, reassuring her.

Susan returned the gesture, smiling and putting her paw on the fox's and patting it. ``Thanks Sami. I guess I'm still a bit shaken up.''

The raccoon returned to the trio just then, with a pizza box and shopping bag full of food. ``Here you go. I made sure to give you plenty of food and some drinks. I'm sorry once again, I hope you visit us again soon. You're always welcome here.''

Kory smiled and thanked him, handing the shopping bag over to Samaki while taking the pizza box. Samaki returned the gesture of thanks to the raccoon, smiling and helping Susan to her feet so they could take their leave.

The trio walked down the sidewalk towards the dorms, Samaki's nose filled with the scents of the food they carried. ``I think he gave us enough food to last a week. It smells wonderful.''

Kory smiled and nodded. ``It seems like it, he really didn't have to do that. I'm not going to complain though.''

The light turned Green, allowing the small group of friends to start crossing the boulevard toward the dorms. Kory laughed as he recollected the way Samaki heroically stood up for Susan. ``Oh Samaki, you're my hero.'' Kory said in a high-pitched voice, imitating Susan. ``Please save me, come to my rescue.'' Susan laughed and swatted playfully at Kory, making him giggle and protect his head with his paws. Samaki laughed from behind the two otters as they continued across the street.

Kory's banter was interrupted when he felt a shove from behind that sent him hurtling towards the sidewalk. The otter tried to catch his step but found himself falling unceremoniously toward the sidewalk headfirst. Unable to stop his momentum, his feet fell out from under him, letting gravity take hold. Kory landed headfirst on the concrete sidewalk. Instantly, the otter felt a searing pain, and heard a high-pitched ringing in his ears, disorienting him. His body went completely limp, and his world went black.

Kory awoke to the sounds of people rushing around him. Opening his eyes revealed a sea of unfamiliar faces all around him. Flashing lights, and the commotion of people rushing all around him added to the confusion he found himself in. Kory looked around and realized there were several police officers and firemen bustling around with equipment. Another group of firemen knelt in the roadway several feet away, as he was distracted by the face of a lioness appearing in front of him.

``He's awake again.'' She said to the others around them before kneeling closer to Kory's face. ``Can you hear me? You're going to be all right, do you understand me?''

Kory tried to speak but found he was unable to form words. He knew they were talking to him, but he couldn't answer. ``What's happening to me?'' He thought to himself.  Kory then felt himself being moved as the rescue team wheeled him into the back of an ambulance. The cool night air was replaced by the stale, humid air of an oxygen mask and the bright lights appearing above him made him squint his eyes closed. All he knew for certain was that his head hurt, there was a loud ringing in his ears, and he was badly disoriented. He was helpless and felt out of control of his own body. As the ambulance doors closed, he felt his clothing being removed and unseen paws checking various areas, disorienting him even further. Kory closed his eyes and blackness overtook him once again.

Kory slowly regained some feeling of awareness, his eyes remained closed, but he could sense some of his surroundings again. His body was regaining control of itself, allowing him to move slightly. He slowly tried to move his legs and arms, but they felt like rubber and hurt so much it made him groan. Kory felt a paw squeezing his, it felt warm and reassuring and he gave it a squeeze back. The otter tried to open his eyes, but the light hurt them, making his vision blurry and unable to focus. Kory looked at the large blob that was next to him. He blinked several times to clear his vision, allowing his eyes to slowly adjust and focus on the figure by his side.

``Hi Kory, it's good to have you back.'' Said the dark figure by his side. Kory squinted his eyes to try and limit the light, which allowed them to make out someone hovering over him. Slowly his eyes came into focus, where he saw a thin black muzzle, with a splash of White fur on the underside. He followed the muzzle up to a pair of beautiful violet eyes, looking down at him with an expression of love and concern. Beyond those eyes were a pair of Black ears, partially laid back against the figure's head. Slowly the otter's brain formed a memory from the pieces he was viewing. Kory suddenly felt his heart beat harder than it was just a few moments ago. His mind filled with thoughts of love for this... this... fox! Was it Samaki? Yes... it must be. This is Samaki!

Kory's vision cleared more, allowing him to look upon the fox that he loved more than anything. ``Samaki? Is that you? I'm so happy to see you.'' Kory said weakly.

``Yes love. It's me. How do you feel?'' The fox asked.

Kory tried to sit up but suddenly thought against it as his body protested painfully. ``I'm so sore. What happened? Where am I?''

Samaki helped Kory sit up in bed slowly, adjusting the bed and putting a couple of pillows behind him to make him more comfortable. ``There was an accident. I pushed you and Susan out of the path of a car that ran the red light. Unfortunately, you hit your head on the sidewalk and got knocked out. They brought you to the hospital and you're in Intensive Care right now. You've been pretty much out cold for two days.''

``T... Two days? Are you serious?'' Kory asked in disbelief. ``What about Susan, Is she all right?''

``I'm afraid not. Susan caught a glancing blow off the bumper of the car and broke her leg pretty badly. She's in another hospital where they've sent her into surgery. They said it looks like she'll survive but they aren't sure about saving her leg yet.'' Samaki said with a sad face.

``My god. I don't remember much of anything before waking up here. I'm glad that you're the first person I saw though. I think I would have freaked out if you weren't here.'' Kory said with an exasperated sigh. ``Thank you hon.''

Samaki smiled and leaned in to give the otter a loving kiss on his muzzle, allowing Kory to relax as he returned the kiss.

After several seconds, the two lovers broke the kiss and they both smiled as Samaki sat back down at the side of Kory's bed. ``I can't stay much longer I'm afraid. The nurse will be in here to check on you shortly and she can't find me here with you.'' Samaki looked away from Kory, as a tear ran down his cheek. ``I couldn't stay away from you though. I needed to be here for you when you woke up. I needed you to know that everything is going to be all right.'' Samaki turned back, looking into Kory's eyes and smiled genuinely at his otter. ``I needed to tell you that you're the best thing that ever happened to me Kory. I love you.''

Kory smiled back at Samaki, wiping the tears from his fox's cheeks. ``Samaki, I know that I've been a paw full over these last 5 years, but you've always been there for me. With everything that's happened, you've been that constant push of sanity that I've needed to get past any crisis.'' Kory took Samaki's paw in his. ``I could never tell you in words just how much you've meant to me. You're my everything hon. I love you.''

Samaki smiled, leaning down and pressing his lips against Kory's. The pair enjoyed sharing this loving moment as long as they could, before the fox broke the kiss and rested his head gently on the otter's head. ``I'm afraid I have to go now Kory. You're going to be all right hon. You just get some rest and you'll be out of here in no time.''

Kory reached his paw up to caress Samaki's cheek and smiled up at him. ``Don't worry hon. You've made me feel better than anything just by being here. I'll get out of here and we can be together again.''

Samaki smiled and stepped back from the side of the bed, backing towards the doorway slowly. ``We'll be together again soon enough. Now you just lay back in bed and get some rest. Promise?''

Kory sighed and smiled as he watched the fox. ``OK, I promise. Thank you love.'' Kory laid his head back on the pillows, the smile staying on his face as he relaxed once again, watching as Samaki disappeared from the room into the hallway. The otter closed his eyes again, and quickly fell asleep.

Kory was awakened by someone jostling the bed, adjusting his pillows. Kory opened his eyes and saw a middle-aged female aardvark in a nurse's uniform. She was changing the bag on his IV when she noticed he was looking up at her.

``Well, hello there. I'm glad to see you're finally awake. I'm Carol, you're in Capitol General Hospital in the ICU. I'm one of the nurses taking care of you. Are you feeling any discomfort or pain?''

Kory smiled at the nurse shaking his head slowly before realizing that was a bad idea. ``I'm OK Carol. I'm sore but as comfortable as I can be, I think.''

Carol checked his vital signs and looked over his bandages. ``I'm going to call the doctor in charge of you and let him know that you're awake. I'm sure he'll want to see you right away. If you need anything you just need to press this button.'' As she held a small handheld controller with a blue button on it. ``We'll see your signal at the nurse's station and come over as soon as we can.''

Kory smiled at the nurse and watched her put the button at the side of his bed rail, where could reach it easily if he needed it. ``Thank you.''

``You're quite welcome dear.'' She said, then turned and headed back out into the hallway.

A short time later, carol returned with a younger male feline by her side. He looked like a cheetah or a leopard, but Kory never could tell the differences between the two. ``Hello Kory. I'm Dr. Holiday and I've been taking care of you during your visit with us. How are you feeling?''

``I think I'm OK, sore and a little weaker than usual, but OK.'' Said Kory.

``That's to be expected for someone with a concussion.'' Said Dr. Holiday as he looked over Kory's chart. ``You took a pretty good knock on the head and received a few cuts and bruises, but it looks like you're improving thanks to the wonderful care you've been receiving from the nurses here.'' Carol couldn't help but smile at the compliment as the doctor put the chart down and shone a light into Kory's eyes. The light was very bright, and it made him wince, but he knew it was necessary for the Doctor to evaluate him properly. Carol and the Doctor then pulled the curtains closed to keep anyone passing by in the hallway from seeing into the room, and then carefully slid the blankets and sheets down, revealing his mostly nude body to them. Kory blushed but he knew this couldn't be the first time they've seen him undressed so he tried to relax as best as he could. Carol smiled and casually adjusted his gown to cover his groin as best as the frail fabric was able, making Kory smile up at her.

The Doctor performed several tests to check if he had proper control of his legs and arms, checking his strength and feeling before moving to his hips and belly. The doctor was thorough in his examination, but Kory managed through it with a stiff upper lip. Once the Doctor finished listening to Kory's chest, he wrote some notes in his chart. ``Kory, I think I'm going to let you be moved to a step-down unit. You'll still have the attention you'll need from us but will be able to have visitors. If everything goes well, you should be able to be released in a couple of days. How does this sound to you?''

Kory smiled at the Doctor. ``Yes. Please. If you think I'm all right.''

``Very well Kory.'' Said Dr. Holiday. ``We'll make the arrangements and have you moved by tomorrow morning at the latest. I'll leave you in Carol's capable paws now and if you need anything, just ask one of the nurses to call me.''

Kory nodded and smiled. ``Thanks again Dr. Holiday. Thanks for everything.''

Carol covered and tucked Kory back into his bed, making sure his pillows were placed in a comfortable position, as Dr. Holiday put Kory's chart back on the end of his bed and headed out of the room.

``Get some rest Kory, just press the button if you need anything.'' Carol said with a smile.

Kory returned the smile. ``Actually, do you know if my cell phone is around anywhere?''

Carol walked over to the small closet and opened the door, pulling out a white bag marked ``Patient's Belongings'' and placed it on the bed at Kory's feet. Opening the bag, she pulled out what remained of his clothes, cut off by the rescuers to evaluate and treat him for his injuries. At the bottom of the bag, she pulled out a small clear bag that had his wallet, some change, and his cell phone. Kory smiled as she handed the smaller bag to Kory, allowing him to open it and retrieve his cell phone. Kory's elation dwindled when he realized the battery was dead. Kory's charger was back at the dorm and the phone had been sitting since he arrived at the hospital.

``Any chance someone has a charger for this?'' Kory asked the nurse as he held up the phone for her to see.

Carol pondered for a moment.  ``I'm not sure but I'll ask around for you. Hold on to it and if someone has a charger, I'll send them in to you.''

Kory smiled and returned the phone to the bag. ``Thanks. I appreciate it.''

Kory laid back on his pillows and closed his eyes as the nurse left the room to allow him some rest. Kory thought of Samaki and wished he was still there with him, but he knew he would see him again very soon. This thought made him smile and put him at ease, allowing him to relax and fall asleep.

The next morning Kory was woken up by the sunlight entering the room through the window. He looked around and thought to himself. ``Geez I slept a long time. I must have really needed the rest.'' The otter stretched himself as best as he could and sat himself up slowly.

The nurse came into the room and smiled at Kory. ``Good morning. It's time to move you to your new ward.'' The nurse went about checking Kory's vital signs and helping him prepare to be moved into a new room, removing the bags of his belongings from the closet and placing them at the foot of the bed.

Kory smiled at the nurse and orderly as they prepared a stretcher to take him away. ``I can probably walk there.'' Said Kory before being interrupted by the nurse. Now now, we'll have no such thing for you young man. You're going to go first class.'' Kory sighed and shimmied onto the stretcher with the orderly's help and covered himself in the blankets, trying to get comfortable for the short trip.

After getting all of Kory's belongings situated on the stretcher and making sure all his paperwork was in order, the nurse shook Kory's hand and wished him well, giving the orderly the go ahead to wheel Kory to his new ward. Some of the nurses wished their best to Kory as he was wheeled slowly from the ICU and into the elevator. The short ride was over in no time as he was wheeled into another section of the hospital and stopped by the nurse's station. An older Possum with the greyest fur Kory had ever seen looked up at the orderly. ``This must be our new guest from the ICU.'' The nurse smiled at Kory and greeted him as she took his paperwork and examined it briefly, then told the orderly to take him to room 2144. ``I'll be in shortly to make sure you're ok. The nurse in that section will meet you in the room and make sure you're transferred into your bed and comfortable.''

Kory smiled and thanked the nurse before being wheeled into the room. The orderly put Kory's belongings in the closet just as another nurse, a short red panda, entered the room. ``Welcome to your new home for the next few days. My name is Lin and if you need anything I'll be happy to assist you. Let's get you set up in your bed and make sure we get your lunch ordered.''

Kory shimmied into the bed and made himself comfortable as he was very happy to get off the transport stretcher and into a real bed. The nurse made sure Kory was comfortable and took great care to explain  how the bed and TV controls worked. Nurse Lin took a pitcher from the table and filled it with ice and some water from the small kitchenette just beside the nurse's station. She placed it back on the table and gave Kory a straw so he would be able to sip the water easily.

Kory thanked the nurse before she left to attend to other patients. Kory turned the TV on and flipped through the channels until he found something interesting to watch. Kory laid back in the bed and fell asleep again after a few minutes.

Kory woke up some time later and noticed there were people in the room. He tried to focus through his sleep hazed eyes as they noticed him waking up and moved to his bedside.

``Hey Kory.'' Said the familiar voice of his brother. ``Man, you look like shit.''

``Gee thanks. I feel like shit too.'' Said Kory half jokingly.

``Nick, that's not very nice.'' Said the other voice in the room. Kory focused his eyes and saw the smiling face of Mrs. Roden looking at Nick and wagging her finger at him scoldingly.

Nick laughed slightly and nuzzled his brother carefully. ``I'm glad that you're all right. We were really worried about you.''

``I'm OK Nick. Just a bit sore that's all.'' Said Kory.

The vixen took Kory's paw into hers and smiled at him. ``Yes Kory. Everyone has been very concerned about you. Your mother even called me to find out what happened and asked me to take care of you while she tried to get a flight here.''

Kory groaned at the thought of his mother showing up at his bedside. ``How did she find out anyway?''

``I called her Kory. Even with everything that's happened she deserves to know if you've been hurt. She's still our mother after all.''

``I suppose, but she doesn't need to come here. I'll be out of here soon enough.'' Kory said in an exasperated voice.

``That's your choice Kory, but I'm not going to tell her not to come.'' Said Mrs. Roden. ``I'll tell her what your condition is and let her decide for herself. You still have a bit of healing to get through here.''

Kory sighed softly. ``Yes, I know you're right. Thank you for taking care of things for me. Both of you.''

The vixen smiled. ``That's what family does Kory. We'll always be here for you.''

Kory smiled. ``Where's Samaki? I thought he would have been here too.''

The expression on the vixen's face changed to one Kory couldn't read easily. He looked over at Nick, who stepped over to look out of the window.

``Did he get caught trying to sneak in to see me again?'' Kory asked. ``I told him not to get himself in trouble.''

``Kory? What did you just say?'' Asked Mrs. Roden.

Kory looked up at the vixen apologetically. ``I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get Samaki in trouble. He snuck into the ICU the other night and made sure I was all right. He told me he'd see me again soon and that I needed to concentrate on getting well again. He left the room before the Nurse came back but I guess he got caught.''

Mrs. Roden looked down at Kory with tears streaming down her face, her mouth was agape, and it looked like she was going to faint. Nick placed his paw on her shoulder as he moved beside her and spoke. ``Kory. I don't know how that could be possible.''

``What do you mean? Asked Kory, a look of confusion washing across his face. ``Samaki didn't get arrested or something, did he?''

Nick closed his eyes and took a deep breath. ``Kory. Samaki.... Samaki was.... killed in the accident.''

Kory stared at Nick. ``Nick. That's not funny.''

Nick's expression stayed stoic as he squeezed Mrs. Roden's shoulder. ``Kory. I don't think you realize what happened. Apparently when you were crossing the street, a car ran the light. Samaki must have seen it first and pushed you and Susan out of the way. You apparently fell onto the sidewalk and hit your head. Samaki was hit full force and thrown into another car that was parked on the block. Susan was injured badly but she's still alive.''

Kory looked at his brother then at Mrs. Roden, looking for some sign that this was some kind of cruel joke. ``That... that's impossible. Samaki was in my room the other night. He held my paw, I felt it. We kissed one another.''

Nick interrupted his brother. ``Kory, you hit your head pretty hard. You must have imagined it. It couldn't have happened.''

Kory stared and started breathing heavily. His face was full of several emotions at once. His mind was racing, replaying the events he remembered so clearly. Mrs. Roden sat in the chair beside Kory's bed, her paws held his and trembled. Tears continued to run down her cheeks as she sat there and squeezed his paw. Kory realized that this was no joke. This was heartfelt emotion from a woman who... who just lost her son. Kory started to cry softly, which slowly turned into a wailing expression of sorrow. Nick was crying now as well, his defensive walls breaking down along with Kory's as he leaned in and held his brother tightly. The nurse, hearing the commotion, stepped into the room, looked at the trio briefly and realized what was happening, she then slowly closed the door and retreated into the corridor to give them some privacy. Kory was bawling like a baby now, the weight of the realization that Samaki, the love of his life, was never coming back. He closed his eyes tightly as tears made it impossible to see as his body convulsed with emotion overwhelming him.

Kory cried in anguish, his emotions brought to bear and releasing all at once. He felt a set of paws on his shoulders, squeezing gently and a face nuzzling against his ears. His ears perked up at the touch allowing him to hear a male voice calling his name gently. ``Kory my love. Are you all right?''

The soothing voice allowed him to calm down slightly, controlling his wailing but still unable to stop the tears flowing from his eyes, obscuring his vision. The gentle paws rubbed along his shoulders, reassuring him and telling him he was not alone in how he felt. Kory somehow knew this, but he couldn't comprehend how this was possible. No one should be behind him if he's laying in a hospital bed, yet the squeezing and caressing continued.

Kory choked back his emotions a bit more and wiped his eyes, allowing them to clear somewhat but confusing him even more. He was no longer in the hospital room, he was seated at a large oak desk, in a room with several books on shelves built into the wall across from him. His paws rested on a thick photo album filled with pictures of Samaki and him, together in happier times. He rubbed his paw across the plastic covered pages, stopping on a news article about the accident with Samaki's picture taken for the yearbook just days earlier. The soothing voice reassured him once again. ``That's it hon. You're all right now. Come back to me.'' Kory looked around at the source of the soothing voice and saw a handsome ferret with brown and white fur staring at him with worried but knowing eyes. Kory instantly snapped back into reality and hugged the ferret tightly. ``Oh Jerry, I'm sorry. I lost myself once again.''

Jerry hugged Kory back and caressed his back softly. ``It's OK dearest, I know how hard it is for you this time of year. I'm here for you.''

Kory looked down at his feet, ashamed that he allowed his emotions to engross him and manipulate his emotions. Jerry placed a paw under Kory's chin and raised his face up to look into Kory's eyes. ``Don't be ashamed Kory. Do you want to talk about it?''

Kory sighed and nodded as the ferret pulled up a chair next to Kory. ``Ten years today. It's been Ten whole years and I can't let go of the memories. I know it's hard to move on, but why is it so hard for me?''

Jerry nodded. ``Kory, Samaki was your best friend, and he was your first real love. He helped you realize who you were at a time when you didn't even know yourself. Your emotional attachment is extremely strong with him. You miss him very much, and on the date of his passing you subconsciously grieve in a way that engrosses you with memories and feelings. I understand whole heartedly and there's nothing wrong with this.''

``Jerry, I know your training, and experience tells you how to say these things, but I'm not sure that I can easily agree with it. I do miss him and grieve as much as anyone would in the same situation, but is it normal to completely lose touch with reality when I do?''

Jerry Held Kory's paws in his. ``Yes, it is. No one can say what course of grieving is right or wrong. Every situation is different, but you can always come back to reality, with me, your loving husband.''

Kory smiled sheepishly and sniffled. ``Yes honey, I know you're here for me. You've been there since the accident and then some. That's why I fell in love with you so easily. You have been supporting me and caring for me when it felt like no one else was able to. I will always have a place in my heart for Samaki, my first real love and savior, but you're here with me now and hopefully always will be.''

Jerry smiled and kissed Kory lovingly on his lips. ``I'm always going to be here love, just as I know you're there for me when I need you too. We fell in love with each other because we knew we'd support and care for one another like no one else could.''

Kory kissed Jerry back and smiled. ``Eight years and counting now. With many more years to go.''

``Are we still planning on visiting Samaki next week?'' Asked Jerry. ``Were you able to contact Mrs. Roden about joining us?''

``Yes, I told her we'd be coming to visit, and she sounded very pleased.'' Said Kory. ``She'll make sure all the children are there too. It's been a long time since I've been able to see them all. Not since Mr. Roden passed away a few years ago.''

``it's a real shame too.'' Jerry replied. ``She has been through so much in just a few years. She's a very strong woman, and she has the love and support of her children to keep her going.''

``And us also.'' Said Kory. ``We're just as much her family as anyone else could be, even if not by blood.''

Jerry smiled. ``It's because of her resolve after Mr. Roden passed away that I decided to shift my counseling practice to grief counseling. I knew then and there what my true calling was. I owe her as much as anyone for enlightening me as she did.''

Kory ran his paw across the pages of the photo album again before closing it softly and placing it on the shelf where it belonged. ``Would you like to go out for dinner tonight? We can go to that Italian restaurant you like so much.''

``That would be lovely.'' Said Jerry as he slid his paws around the otter and kissed him on the cheek from behind. ``I'm ready as soon as you are dear.''

The pair kissed each other briefly as Jerry opened the door and they walked out of their house, holding paws as the heavy door closed behind them.

The End.

Epilogue.

Life as we know it can be compared to the journey of water, as reflected on by Kyell Gold in the original novel Waterways. Life starts as a small trickle of water, growing and moving into the streams, then expanding into rivers, and finally settling into the ocean. Sometimes the journey can be smooth and casual, and other times it may be rocky and turbulent. As any of us go through life, we never know what our futures may hold, what paths we will follow, or what our destination will be. The only certainty is that there will be a certain amount of turmoil and strife to deal with, but rest assured that over time it will smooth itself out and settle into a great sea of peaceful tranquility.  

Everyone at one time or another needs some caring words, a warm hug, or even just a friend to listen to them. Never be afraid to show someone that all is not hopeless, no matter how much despair they are experiencing, things will improve.

I would like to thank Kyell Gold, who was wise and imaginative enough to write and publish the original Waterways novel 14 years ago. I am eternally grateful to him for sharing the stories in his writings, inspiring myself and many others to see who we really are and give us the strength to overcome the hardships we experience.

My thanks also go out to you, the readers who not only allowed me to express myself in my writings, but to those who have offered many words of encouragement and support as I wrote and posted these chapters. I know I'm not a professional author, but there is as much of my own heart and imagination in my writings as can be expressed.

I truly hope that this is not the finale for Kory and Samaki or any of the other characters expressed in these pages. With any luck, someone with just as much imagination and inspiration will pick up the reigns and remodel the characters again, bringing even more stories of the lives of our favorite otter and fox.

T.B.

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