Kathy Kellenberger

Friday - October 1979

   "Starsky! Hutchinson! In my office now!

   Starsky and Hutch just looked at each other, rolling their eyes. Not again they thought. Now what?

   The two filed into their superior's office and quickly and naturally made themselves comfortable.

   "Starsky! Get your crummy sneakers off my desk! You know, the two of you could show a little more respect." Dobey was in a mood.

   "What's up Cap'n?" both said at the same time.

   "I have an assignment for the two of you. It's not like we're not short staffed enough around here already, but I got orders." Dobey threw the file on his desk toward his men. Hutch picked up the file and paged through it at a glance, then handed it to his partner.

   "You're both being assigned to the Cooper case. Julian Cooper escaped from the Greenfield's State Mental Institution for the criminally insane two days ago. He's very clever and is familiar with many of the officers and detectives in the small town of Mill Valley, just above San Francisco, near Berkley.  Cooper is certain to be in the area. All he has talked about for the last four years was about getting revenge on the people in Mill Valley who put him away. We need someone up there that we're certain he won't recognize."

   "But Cap'n...we already have plans for the weekend." Starsky said hopeful that Dobey would say it could wait till Monday.

   "You also got a job...and if I want to keep mine the two of you better show your faces to Lieutenant Michael's by tomorrow afternoon. If you leave in the morning, you should be there by at least 5pm. He's heard about your work. Don't get a big head, but he's impressed."

   "Thanks Cap'n." Hutch said in a low voice as they were leaving the office.

   "Hey!" Dobey called after them. "I'm sorry about your weekend. I'll try and make it up to you both when you get back."

   "Oh well, another weekend gone." Starsky said with a sigh to his partner who was equally unhappy with the arrangements.

   "Well Starsk, I guess we better get out of here and get packed. Tomorrow morning is gonna come real soon. We'll take my car."

   "Oh no! No way buddy. We'll never get there, not in one piece anyway."

   They made a bet over a game of chess. The winner would drive.

   The drive to Mill Valley was not too bad in Hutch's car.

~~~~~~

   To Starsky's dismay, he had to agree that his car might stand out too much in a small, old fashioned town. Besides, he had been beaten at his own game. Hutch gloated a little. "Hey, I won fair and square."

   They arrived around 1pm. It looked to be a nice town, small but quaint. The only lodging they could find was a bed and breakfast type place called Deppen's Inn. It looked nice enough.

   "We got only one room left." Said the older woman behind the counter.

   "Room number 6?" Starsky said.

   The woman looked oddly at the two out of towners, almost as if she had seen a ghost.

   "We'll take it!" Starsky said without consulting his partner. Hutch just grinned. He was used to his partner speaking for him. He felt he couldn't refuse as he saw Starsky's excitement. Hutch just gave his partner one of his 'confused' expressions and nodded his head.

   "How did you know we'd get room #6? What is it with you Starsky? We're in an old run down town, staying in a 100 year old inn and you act like we're on vacation for God's sake."

   "Well, your 100 year old car should feel right at home here. Come on Hutch, don't you feel it? There's something about this place. I felt is as soon as I saw it. Like it was calling our names. I can't explain it. Come on, lets check out our new living quarters we'll be staying in for the next few days."

   The old Inn actually was 100 years old, being built in 1879. The pictures and other history memorabilia showed the house barely changed over the years, just got more character with each decade. There was a family portrait in the den of the Inn that read only, "The Deppen's". The picture was of what looked like a young married couple with three small children, all sitting on the steps in front of this very house. It was kind of an unusual house for the area. It was a two story Victorian style building made of stone. It had a big wrap around porch with tall pillars and a balcony off of each front room on the second floor. The window's seemed to be the eyes of the house.

   There was definitely something special about this house, as the two detectives from the LAPD would soon find out.

~~~~~~

   "It's just like I remembered it!" Said Starsky.

   "Starsky!...You ok? We've never been to this town before and this hotel certainly isn't a tourist attraction. You've been under a lot of stress lately Starsk. Maybe getting away was a good thing, but how did you know we would be in room #6?"

   "I don't know what I meant by that Hutch. It just came out. Good guess maybe."

   "Ok, so the room # was a good guess, but what made you say, it's just like you remembered it?"

   "Hutch, I'm sorry. I don't know where that came from either. It just feels so familiar. It's just a feeling I guess. I know we were never here before, but why does it feel so much like home?"

   "I don't know Starsk. Maybe you need a nap." Hutch laughed and shook his head. "There is something strange about this old Inn, but Starsk...Hutch could not describe the feeling either. "I think I need a nap too."

   They dropped their luggage and both fell into a badly needed sleep.

   Starsky's stomach woke him around 3pm. He didn't want to wake his partner who seemed to be sleeping so peacefully. Starsky quietly slipped into his sneakers and decided to have a look around.

   As he stepped out into the hall he felt that 'familiar' feeling again. He made his way downstairs and was pulled toward the parlor of the house. There were many old pictures and a small old bookcase that caught his attention.

   The people in the pictures all seemed so close to him. At first it caused him to shiver, but he then felt an unusual calm. Hutch is right...Wow...I think I do need a break. I don't understand these feelings. I've never seen these people before and I was never in this old Inn. Starsky wondered why his mind seemed to be playing such games with him. He sat on the sofa and became mesmerized with one of the pictures. It read only, "The Doc's Place - 1879". He knew this building and could even see behind its shell into the office of the old town doctor.

~~~~~~

   "Hey Starsk, what are you doing?"

   "Hutch!" Starsky jumped. "Don't sneak up on me like that, you scared me."

   "Starsky, I wasn't sneaking. Your attention was elsewhere. What's up buddy?"

   "I don't know Hutch. It's this place. I'm not afraid or spooked by it. I actually feel really good and comfortable here, but Hutch, I feel like I know these people in the pictures. I know it sounds crazy...those pictures are 100 years old."

   "Buddy, don't worry. Don't let it get to you, I feel good here too. Maybe we just needed to get out of the city more than we realized. Some food and more rest is sure to help. Come on, lets see what this town has to offer. We need to get over to Lieutenant Michael's and get the details on this Cooper guy, then we can find something to eat, at least a pizza if nothing else."

   "You're right Hutch. I'm sorry. I'll snap out of it. I probably just had a dream about a place like this."

   Both introduced themselves to Michael's and his associate. They were filled in on all the details of one Mr. Julian Cooper, born and raised in Mill Valley. He showed signs of mental problems and violence beginning in his teens. One of his problems was paranoia. He felt the towns people were out to get him. He killed three of the innocent people in the town before being caught and sent to the hospital for the criminally insane. Julian's favorite weapon was a knife. He killed all three victims in cold blood by stabbing them and watched as they bled to death.

   "He's a real sick guy." Michael's told the two visiting detectives. "We really need your help. I don't want to alarm the town that he has escaped, but it's a small town and I can't keep it quiet for long. Thank you both for coming."

   "No problem." Said Hutch, "We'll do what we can. We'll get your man, don't worry."

   They exchanged handshakes with the town Lieutenant and grabbed the file on Cooper.

   "Sounds like one crazy guy Hutch."

   "Yeah, we'll figure something out. He won't recognize us, so we have a pretty good chance. We can ask some questions after we find some food."

   Starsky raved that he just had the best pizza ever made. Hutch had to agree it was pretty good. They walked around Main Street for a bit, getting a feel for the town and studying its layout. The people seemed friendly.

   "You know Starsk, I like this town."

   "Hutch look! It's the town's doctors office."

   "What's so exciting about that Starsky? You need a doctor?" Hutch grinned at the boyish excitement his partner seemed to find in life's smallest of things.

   "No Hutch. It's the picture on the wall back at the Deppen's. This is the same building that the doc used in 1879."

   "Ok...and?"

   "Hutch, I've gotta see the inside."

   "Not now you don't buddy. You'd be breaking and entering. Why don't we come back in the morning?" Hutch hated to refuse his partner anything but had to be rational. He figured Starsky suddenly became interested in history for some unknown reason.

~~~~~~

   Both talked a while before going to sleep.

   "Starsky, you sure you're ok?"

   "I'm fine partner. Why?"

   "It's just...well you've seemed so preoccupied with this town, this old Inn, this room, the pictures...I got a little worried when you wanted to break into a doctor's office."

   "I'm ok, honest. Just intrigued I guess. Not sure why...but I'm really ok. I'm tired. You need to stop rambling on so we can get some sleep."

   "Me! Rambling on! Ooohhhh Starsk Hutch grinned Boy to you have it coming."

   The flying pillow just missed Starsky's head. Both started laughing. Both inwardly appreciating the gift of their friendship. Both knowing that neither would be the same without it. The Inn soon found both of its friends peacefully asleep.

   It was almost 3am when Starsky woke thinking he heard footsteps above their room. He knew they were on the second floor and only the attic was above them. His curiosity got the best of him. He slipped out of the room without waking his partner.

   Starsky looked at the door leading to the attic. He knew it would be kind of like trespassing, but the calling was too strong. Within seconds Starsky was enveloped by the attic of its keeper. He lit a candle and began to slowly look around.

   Hutch continued to sleep, more peacefully than he had in months, possibly years.

   Starsky found old furniture, old mirrors, an old cot, boxes and chests and an old coat rack. He stopped when he found a rack of clothing. Looking through it he found an old black leather vest that intrigued him. He put it on.

   1879 - Same date

   Starsky woke to the distant sound of 'clip clop, clip clop' amongst talking people in the streets. As he became more alert he realized he must have slept on the grass near the Mill Valley Lake. He thought maybe he started sleepwalking again, but then had to catch his breath as he looked down at himself. He was wearing the black leather vest, a denim shirt, cowboy boots and pants made of a material he didn't recognize. He saw a cowboy hat lying on the grass next to his grass bed. He was speechless and scared. What the hell happened! And where the hell am I? he thought to himself. This has to be a dream...come on Hutch...wake me up! This is too scary.

   1979 same date and time

   Hutch woke from his sleep, feeling more rested than he had ever remembered. He observed his partner in the bed next to his. It was only about 7am. Hutch went to look for some coffee and a newspaper, leaving his partner sleep.

~~~~~~

   1879 - same time & date

   Starsky didn't know what to do or where he was. He walked toward the town, following the voices. He saw a General Store. Hey, last night that was a 7-11 he thought. He walked past the building where Hutch and he shared the pizza last night. It was now a bakery. Then he saw the Dr. office just as it looked in the picture at the Deppen's.

   "The Deppen's Inn!" he exclaimed out loud. Getting odd looks from those close by. I have to find the Deppen's he thought to himself. But first I need to see that Doctor's office.

   Starsky walked into the town doctor's office. He was greeted by a friendly old doctor.

   "Hello son. You passing through town? Never seen you here before. There something I can do for you?"

   "No, no I'm ok. Can you tell me the date?"

   "Well son, it's October 18, 1879. You sure you're ok?"

   Starsky became dizzy and unsteady on his feet as he heard the doctor's words.

   "1879!"

   "Yes. What's your name anyway?" The doctor thought maybe he wouldn't remember that either. "I think you should let me take a look at you. Have you been getting dizzy a lot?"

   Starsky had to smile. "No doc, honestly, I just need some breakfast that's all."

   "Well, if you can hang around, my apprentice Karl just went for some donuts. They make the best white cream filled donuts for towns around."

   "No doc. Thanks, but I have to be going. Maybe I'll see you around."

   Starsky was really beginning to think that this was not a dream but reality. Reality in 1879. He was starting to sweat. He took off the black leather vest and was suddenly being shaken awake by his partner.

   1979 same date & time

   "Hey Starsk, wake up. You're having one heck of a dream."

   Starsky had to catch his breath.

   "Hutch? Is that really you? What year is it?"

   "Starsky, come on buddy wake up. You ok? You're shaking Starsk." Hutch wiped his partner's perspiring forehead with a towel. "Hey, it was only a dream. It's gonna be ok."

   Hutch was concerned, something really had his partner upset if not down right confused.

   "Come on buddy, lets eat some breakfast. I just walked down town and got us some donuts. White cream filled Starsk, your favorites."

~~~~~~

   It was a beautiful morning. Hutch was able to calm Starsky from his anxious awakening and they went on their search for Julian Cooper. Starsky was still shaken by what took place just hours ago in his mind. He was certain it was not just a dream.

   Hutch noticed his partner's nervousness. "Hey buddy. Want to talk about it?"

   "I'm ok Hutch, just didn't sleep too well last night. I feel exhausted."

   That answer was not good enough to satisfy Hutch, but he figured his partner would talk when he was ready. They continued on with their work, asking questions and gathering information before checking back in with Lieutenant Michael's.

   By 4pm they gathered all the information they could for the day. They had no leads, realizing this case may not be as easy to wrap up as they thought. Michael's told them he would check in with them if he received any info. Basically, the two city detectives had some time to themselves.

   "Hutch, I'm really tired. I'm gonna catch a few winks ok?"

   "Sure buddy, no problem. No dreams huh? I think I'll check out the book store down on Main Street."

   "Thanks Hutch I won't sleep long." Starsky was drained.

   The black leather vest caught Starsky's attention again as he walked over to the bed. He wondered how the vest got into their room. It wasn't there this morning. He picked it up, smelled the leather and without a thought he put it on.

   1879 - same day and time

   Starsky found himself once again in the strange town that looked so much like Mill Valley, just a lot older. He sat down on the porch of the Saloon to catch his breath and rest.

   "Hey you! Yeah you mister! Who said you could sit on our porch?"

   Starsky realized quickly that the three men coming toward him were drunk.

   "I didn't know you owned this porch. Do you own the Saloon too?" Starsky realized he should not have agitated these men who seemed so unreasonable. Before he could get up the men were on him. He didn't have a chance. He reached for his gun, which was obviously not there.

   It was all over within minutes. They left Starsky laying in the street, off of "their porch," bloody and bruised. He hurt. He tried to get up unsuccessfully and fell back down. The world faded out on him.

~~~~~~

   "Hey Mister, wanna wake up for me?" Starsky heard a familiar, comforting voice. He was coming to slowly, his eyes not yet open. He felt the comfort of someone dabbing ice onto his injuries. He winced as his caretaker felt around his rib area.

   "Think ya might have a couple busted ribs buddy. I know it hurts, just try to stay still. I'm gonna help you."

   Starsky moaned buy was comforted by the soothing familiar voice. He drifted back into unconsciousness.

   Starsky wasn't sure how long he was out, but noticed it was dark outside and that the slightest movement was difficult and hurt. He opened his eyes to find Hutch sitting next to him, drifting off into a sleep of his own. They were in the town's doctor's office.

   "Hutch." He reached out for his partner. "Hutch." Starsky moaned louder as he tried to move, which woke the blond.

   "Hey Mister, welcome back."

   "Hutch, what's wrong with you? Why are you calling me Mister?"

   "Take it easy, you got beat up pretty badly this afternoon. I think you may have a couple broken ribs and you're bruised up pretty good. You'll be hurting for a while."

   Starsky was speechless as he looked at his partner who didn't seem to recognize him.

   "What's going on here? What's wrong with you Hutch? You act like you don't know me."

   "Hey, take it easy. You got a pretty good bump on your head. Those Cooper boys are nothing but trouble, especially the older brother Julian."

   Starsky started breathing heavier as his caretaker patted at his face with a cool cloth. He was scared and feeling very confused. He was given a shot of Whiskey for the pain.

   "Just try to relax, you're in the town doctor office, been here since late this afternoon. I've been looking after you. My name is Karl. Karl Hutchinson. Old doc Meyer's and I try to keep the town healthy. I'm his apprentice. He's a good man."

   Starsky, still speechless, started shaking and perspiring heavily. He felt himself passing out again, maybe not so much from the pain, but from the confusion. He thought he may be losing his mind.

   Karl felt his patients forehead and realized he had spiked a fever. He removed his heavy clothing, being careful with the vest his new comer held onto so tightly.

~~~~~~

   1979 same day & time

   "Starsky! Starsky!....buddy wake up! Come on Starsk...please!"

   Starsky opened his eyes to a very concerned Hutch.

   "Hutch...is it really you? You know me?"

   "Of course I know you, you're my partner. What happened Starsk? I was only gone a couple hours and I come back to find you unconscious and beaten. You got a fever too. Buddy, you've got to talk to me. Who did this to you?"

   "Hutch, Julian Cooper and his brothers beat me up for sitting on the Saloon porch."

   "Starsky, you're scaring me. I'm calling Dobey and telling him we're off the case and I'm finding a hospital for you."

   "No! No please Hutch. I'll be ok I promise. I'll tell you what happened, but promise me you won't think I'm crazy."

   Hutch sat on Starsky's bed, ready to listen.

   "It's this place Hutch. It's not a bad place but we were here before...a long time ago."

   "Starsk, we were never here before, not in this lifetime buddy. Tell me what happened ok?"

   "It's the vest Hutch. Every time I put it on it takes me back to 1879. You're there too. You are doc Meyer's apprentice Karl. You call yourself Karl. You don't recognize me back there, but you've been taking real good care of me. You're a good doctor. Please believe me Hutch. I'm not making this up and I'm not crazy."

   Hutch saw the tears in his partner's eyes and knew that he was serious, afraid and hurting.

   "Tell me I'm not crazy Hutch."

   "Buddy, you're not crazy. We're gonna figure this out." Hutch knew that his partner needed nurturing more than questions right now. He moved closer to Starsky and held him close, being careful not to cause him anymore pain. Starsky's fever spiked high during the night, keeping Hutch busy with cool compresses and busy getting him through the dreams and pain that plagued him constantly.

   By morning the fever seemed to break. Both were exhausted from the non-peaceful night. Starsky woke to find Hutch asleep on the bed next to him. He just laid there a while, willing the pain and his thoughts away.

   Hutch woke soon after and came closer to check on his patient. "Hey buddy, how ya feeling?"

   "Better...sore."

   "Well, we're gonna at least let the town doc take a look at you."

   "Guess I can't talk you out of it huh?"

   "No way. Better safe than sorry Starsk."

   Hutch helped his partner to get dressed and took him straight to the doc's office.

   "Hi, I'm doc Meyer's, you two new in town?"

   "Just visiting, my friend got a little banged up and I just wanted him to get checked out. He's been running a fever too."

   "Dr. Meyer's?" Starsky asked anxiously.

   "Yes son, do I know you? You both look awfully familiar."

   "Was your grandfather a doctor here?" Starsky asked, holding his side and looking very pale.

   The doctor had him lye down on the exam table in the back office. Hutch was concerned not only about his partner's physical well being, but his emotional as well. He was praying Starsky was not having a nervous breakdown.

   "Yes Mr. Starsky, as a matter of fact this doctors office has been run by my family for over 100 years."

   Starsky closed his eyes and left the doctor to his exam.

   Doc Meyer's took Hutch aside to talk to him. "Mr. Hutchinson, your partner will be ok physically, he'll be sore for a while and the fever may come and go, but he is suffering from exhaustion. He needs total bedrest for a few days.

   "I'll take care of him doc, thanks."

   "You look like you could use some rest yourself Mr. Hutchinson."

   "Thanks doc, it was just a rough night for both of us."

   Hutch helped Starsky up from the table. He wanted to get him back to the Deppen's and into their room quickly, while his partner still had the strength to walk.

~~~~~~

   Hutch tucked his partner into his bed, then called Cap'n Dobey. He told him of Starsky's condition. Dobey knew his boys very well. He could tell Hutch was serious.

   "Ok, I'm taking you both off the case. I'll send Martinson and Coyle up there tomorrow and I'll call Michael's. The pace has slowed down around here for a while anyway. Hutch, take care of your partner and yourself too, you sound pretty wiped out."

   "Thanks Cap'n. I'll call you with an update soon."

   Hutch returned to his partner's side. "Well buddy, we may be in for another long night. You gonna keep that fever away for me? The doc gave me some pills for the pain. You let me know when you need one huh?"

   "Hutch...thanks. I'm sorry to do this to you. I didn't mean to get sick. Are we in trouble with Dobey?"

   "No buddy, I called Dobey. We're off the case and we're not in trouble." Hutch grinned at his innocent and boyish partner. He didn't see him holding onto the black vest.

   Starsky drifted off into sleep quickly. Hutch started the cool compresses again as Starsky's fever seemed to be climbing. His breathing was not as steady as Hutch would have liked and he became restless once again, seemingly lost in the same dream.

   There was a knock at the door. Hutch didn't want to leave his partner's side for a minute. He yelled "come in" after he heard the voice on the other side of the door announce himself as Dr. Meyer's.

   Doc Meyer's walked over to the bed where Starsky was being cared for by his partner.

   "Doc, I'm glad to see you. You sure he's gonna be ok? His fever seems worse and he's really shaking with the chills."

   The doctor took another look at his patient.

   "I think your friend is going to be ok. He needs a lot of rest and it seems as though he might have a touch of the flu. Just keep him warm and covered and then try to cool him down when the fever is high. If he continues to be so restless I'll come back with a shot to help him relax."

   "Thanks doc. It was nice of you to stop by."

   "Well, Mr. Hutchinson, I actually stopped by for another reason. I have something I want you to see." The doc pulled out an old journal that belonged to his great grandfather, and another smaller journal which was labeled "Dr. Karl Hutchinson."

   "I can see that you and Mr. Starsky are good friends. He's lucky to have someone to care for him like you do."

   "Yeah doc, he's my best friend, like the brother I never had."

   "Mr. Hutchinson, do you believe in time travel?"

   "What?"

   "Time travel, going back in time, like a time warp?"

~~~~~~

   Hutch was confused and feeling anxious at the same time. "What are you talking about? And why do you think I would know anything about time travel, time warps or whatever you call it?"

   The doctor handed Hutch a picture that was in the smaller journal, Karl's journal. "Take a look Mr. Hutchinson, this picture was in this journal I found in the storage room. This journal belonged to Karl Hutchinson, my great grandfather's partner."

   Hutch took the picture from Dr. Meyer's. It was old and delicate, but there was no mistaking the clarity of the two men in the picture. Hutch stared at it in amazement. His hands began to shake and he was going pale.

   "Is this some kind of a joke doc?"

   "No, I didn't believe it either at first, but after I read some of the journal...well, I couldn't put off showing it to you. You'll see." The Dr. handed Karl's journal over to Hutch.

   Starsky was becoming more restless and Hutch was quickly at his side. Doc Meyer's said he would stop by later to check on Starsky and to talk more about what was in the journal.

   1879 same day & time

   Starsky felt the comfort of the cool compresses and heard Hutch's soothing voice...or Karl's soothing voice. He was too exhausted and sore to think about it. Which ever one it was Starsky felt good he was near. Either way, he had his Hutch with him. He didn't know how much time had passed, but he was beginning to become more alert.

   "Hey David. Welcome back again buddy. You had me scared that time. Ya gotta stop passing out on me like that ok?"

   "Starsky realized that he must be back in 1879 with Karl. Hutch would never call him 'David'.

   "Sorry Karl, I'll try harder." He forced a smile. "How long was I out?"

   "A few hours. Your fever got pretty high and you were kind of delirious. You were talking to some guy you called Hutch. Is he a friend of yours?"

   "Yeah...he's my best friend."

   "Hey take it easy David. Don't cry. You're gonna be ok. Maybe I can help you find your friend."

   "You are my friend Karl. I need to tell you something and I need you to listen real close ok?"

~~~~~~

   Starsky reached into his vest and pulled out a picture he put in the pocket earlier. It was a picture of him and Hutch standing in front of his Torino. He handed it to Karl.

   "What is it David? I don't understand. We never had our picture taken together. What is that red thing behind you and who is that guy? He looks just like me."

   Starsky smiled. "That red thing is my car, and that guy is you. His name is Kenneth Hutchinson. The year is 1979. We're right here in Mill Valley right now. We're staying at the Deppen Inn in room #6. Do you believe in time travel Karl?"

   Karl had his head down, studying the picture with shaking hands. "My real name is Kenneth. My mother named me, but my father never liked it so he called me Karl. It kinda stuck I guess." Karl smiled, "my father and I don't agree on too much at all. He wanted me to be a sheriff...and I wanted to be a doctor."

   Starsky reached for Karl's hand. Karl took hold of his new friend's hand and held on tightly. No words were needed. Both felt a calm and understanding. Starsky knew why of course, but Karl didn't realize why he felt so close to this man he only met yesterday. He didn't want to think about it. He was only glad for his new found friendship with this special person.

   "Karl, will you take me back to the Deppen's Boarding House? I'm staying there while I'm in town. I just wanna rest in that comfortable bed."

   "Sure David. Doc Meyer's will be back soon, how about I take you back then? You sure you'll be ok there?"

   "I can't stay here forever. Will you stay there with me for a while?"

   "Sure, I don't think you are ready to be on your own yet anyway. I'd feel better being there."

   "I'm gonna go back to sleep now Karl. Will you be here when I wake up?"

   "Of course buddy, sure I will." Karl reassured his special new friend he felt so close to.

   Starsky began calling for his partner, not realizing he was right beside him.

   "Hey Starsk. How ya feeling?"

   "I don't know, I'm ok I guess. I'm still cold and everything hurts."

   "Well, you're still fighting that fever buddy and you've been real restless Starsky, I need to talk to you. Are you with me enough to understand?"

   Starsky heard the shakiness in Hutch's voice. His vision cleared and he realized he was back in 1979 with his partner.

   "Whats wrong Hutch?"

   "Starsky, I believe you."

   "What? You believe what Hutch?"

   "Buddy, I'm sorry I didn't take you seriously at first when you said you went back to 1879. I know now you really were there and ...I was there too. I've been trying to think of an explanation for this and I can't come up with one. Starsk, I want you to tell me everything ok? And here, take a look at this." Hutch handed Starsky the picture from Karl's journal.

   "There's more Starsk. Karl, Kenneth, doctor Hutchinson...kept a journal. It's us buddy. I don't' understand it, but it's us."

~~~~~~

   The picture from 1879 was clearly Starsky and Hutch...or David and Karl. It was a picture of both of them together, each with an arm around the other's shoulder.

   "Listen to this Starsk." Hutch began to read a passage from old doc Meyer's journal, to his partner.

   "October 19, 1879,

   Karl seems to have found a new friend. His name is David Starsky. He was brought into the office after being badly beaten by the Cooper boys. Karl is quickly becoming a wonderful doctor. He is a terrific boy and the townspeople really love him. He has such talent and such a way with people. I see a great future ahead for him and am glad to have been a part of his success. Mr. Starsky is going to need some looking after for a while, he was hurt pretty bad and has some broken ribs and a fever that wont quit. Karl has taken David back to the Deppen's boarding house, and is going to stay with him till he mends. Karl seems to be very fond of his new patient and friend. I have total faith that Karl will get him through this."

   "Hutch..." Starsky could only look at his partner, realizing they 'were' there and that Karl was real. He didn't understand how or why all this was happening. He was condition was getting worse as he got almost no sleep going between the two worlds. He reached for his partner's hand, taking comfort in the contact with his partner. He didn't want it to be broken. This entire thing was scaring him...scaring them both.

   Hutch noted his partner's distress and knew he needed a break. He gave him a pain pill and applied more cool compresses as Starsky's fever was increasing again.

   "You need to rest now buddy. I'm sorry for keeping you up. I know you need to rest. Dr. Meyer's will be back later to check on you and I'm not gonna leave you. I'll be right here....but Starsk, don't leave me either ok? I mean I don't know if I want you going back there anymore. I'm afraid you might not come back."

   Starsky saw the tears in his partner's eyes. He motioned to pull him into a hug. He held on tightly, til his strength gave out.

~~~~~~

   "It's gonna be ok Hutch, you can't get rid of me that easy. Who'd be there to insult my car?" Starsky forced a smile in an attempt to lighten his partner's mood. He hated seeing him hurting and just wanted to make him feel better.

   Starsky soon drifted off into sleep again despite his efforts to stay awake. Even in his sleep he was torn. He wanted to listen to Hutch and not go back, but another part of him wanted to be with Karl again. His sleep was restless and certainly didn't promote the healing he needed so badly.

   1879 same day & time

   He soon found himself in the care of Karl Kenneth Hutchinson in 1879.

   "Karl, you're still here?"

   "Of course David. I was worried, we gotta get you better. I'm not comfortable with this fever that keeps fighting us."

   Karl continued to apply ice directly to Starsky's face, arms and chest.

   "I'm gonna try some herbs, nothing else seems to be working David. We've gotta stop it....."

   "Whatever Karl. Just make it stop. I'm running out of fuel here."

   "David, what is fuel?"

   "Oh, sorry Karl. I forgot. Fuel is something that keeps things going. Maybe you call it something different here."

   Starsky used all his strength to tell Karl about the future. He told him about cars, police work and new medical breakthrough's. Mostly he talked about his friendship with Kenneth Hutchinson Hutch in the 1970's. Starsky was wearing down fast. His fever was high and he was still very sore. He was getting weaker by the hour. He found it hard to stay awake, but was afraid to fall asleep, not knowing where he would wake up.

   "David, I want to hear all about it, but you must rest now. We'll have lots of time to talk."

   "I'm gonna run for the herbs and be right back. You gonna be ok?"

   "Karl, don't leave...please."

   Karl ran his fingers through Starsky's damp curls. "I'll be right back I promise."

   Starsky attempted to get up to follow him but was too weak. He fell back on the bed, awaiting his friends return. He was in a feverish sleep within minutes.

~~~~~~

   1979 - same day & time

   Dr. Meyer's took Hutch aside. "Kenneth, I'm worried about your friend. I don't have an explanation as to why the fever won't stop. I've tried everything, antibiotics, ice, fluids, medicine... His fever is 104 right now. If it goes up to 105 I want you to call an ambulance and then me. I want you to apply some ice directly to his body, you may even want to get him in the tub and run some cold water. I have to see a couple patients, then I'll be back."

   Hutch nodded apprehensively. "Please come back soon." He was afraid to be alone with his partner if something worse should happen.

   Hutch did the ice regime for a while but his partner's temperature climbed to 104.5.

   " Oh Starsk, you're not gonna like this, but we're gonna need to try and stop this fever now." Hutch knew his partner was wearing down fast. He carried Starsky to the tub he filled with cold water. He then removed all of his partner's clothing except his briefs. Starsky seemed near delirium now. Hutch gently lowered his depleted friend into the water.

   "NO! It's cold!...stop it Hutch, it's cold! Please!"

   Starsky fought weakly to get out of the tub. Hutch held him secure. He hated seeing his partner so helpless and defeated. Starsky was now reduced to uncontrollable sobbing.

   "Stop it Karl...please stop it. Let me out." He continued to cry and no longer had any struggle left in him.

   After a few minutes in the cold water Starsky stopped trying to fight it. He just shook violently and held onto Hutch with a 'jaws of life' grip and seemed to fall asleep, or pass out...Hutch was not sure which, but he was scared.

   1879 same day & time

   Starsky felt as though he were freezing to death. He opened his eyes to find Karl busy at his side. He had packed him in ice.

   "Here buddy, I want you to swallow this for me. It's not gonna taste good...come on..."

   Starsky reluctantly swallowed Karl's concoction.

   "It's horrible.." Starsky was crying again. "Just let this be over ok. Just let me go...please. I can't do this anymore." Starsky was nearing a complete breakdown.

   Karl held his friend close, feeling his pain, praying to God to help him. Starsky seemed to calm down in Karl's arms and drifted back out.

~~~~~~

   "Starsky...come on buddy wake up. Dr. Meyer's is here. He looked through Karl's old notes and wants you to try some natural herbs. It...well...it worked for you when you were really sick in Karl's care in 1879."

   Starsky was beyond words. He was giving up. He was so tired of feeling so sick and he didn't know where he belonged anymore. He took the herbs without a fight.

   1879 same day & time

   "David...David, hey buddy your fever seems to be getting better. I think you're gonna be ok, the herbs worked."

   Starsky woke feeling better, exhausted, but the fever was down.

   "Karl...you saved my life...how can I thank you?"

   "No thanks needed. My reward is you feeling better."

   They talked for hours, hand in hand. Starsky told Karl everything he though he might need to know about the future, believing that Karl would someday be with him in the 1970's. Karl was very attentive, never doubting his friends words.

   Starsky was once again asleep, a much more peaceful sleep this time. Karl had fallen asleep to in the chair next to the bed.

   1979 same day & time

   Hutch woke up when he heard Starsky stir. He felt his partner's forehead which was now cool and his face seemed to have miraculously returned to its natural color. Hutch took a big breath of relief and silently thanked God, and Karl for the herbs.

   Later that day Starsky persuaded Hutch to take him outside. He couldn't stand being in bed anymore. Hutch told him he was too weak, but Starsky used guilt and pouting as his weapons. Hutch agreed unwillingly. He could deny his partner nothing, as long as it wasn't life threatening.

   Starsky and his partner talked about all that had taken place since they got to Mill Valley.

   "Starsky, I know this may be unfair of me to ask, but could you 'not' go back to 1879 anymore? I just don't want you going back there Starsk."

   Starsky heard the fear in his partner's voice. "What's bothering you Hutch?"

   "Starsky, I'm afraid. I'm afraid I'm gonna lose you, that you are gonna go back one time and never come back here. From what I read in Karl's journal, you're the best friend he ever had and he seems to be yours. Starsky, if you stay back in 1879, you're still gonna have me...but if you don't come back, I'm not gonna have you. I can't bear the thought of that. Starsky I go on because I know someone believes in me, laughs with me, cries with me. If you leave...it's all gone. I don't know how I'd cope with that." Hutch sat down on a bench near the lake and put his head in his hands, attempting to hide his tears.

   Starsky sat down next to his friend, putting one arm around him and pulling him close, resting Hutch's head on his shoulder with his other hand. Starsky was spilling tears onto his jeans as he held his best friend.

   later back at the Deppen's 1979

   "Hutch, I'm not gonna stay back in 1879, but I have to say goodbye to Karl. I can't just leave him without saying goodbye and thank you. Hutch, he has feelings, just like you. knowing he was Hutch. I don't know how I'm gonna do it Hutch, but I will. I'm not gonna leave you, I promise buddy. I've known you a lot longer in the 1900's than I have in the 1800's." Starsky tried to get a smile out of his partner. "I'll explain to Karl. At least he has the 1970's to look forward to."

   Starsky lifted Hutch's head to look him in the eyes. "I promise Hutch."

   "Please Starsk, come back soon, no more than one or two hours ok?"

   "Ok Hutch, I'll be back soon."

   There eyes met and stayed connected for a long time. Starsky then picked up the vest and went into a sleep.

   Hutch was praying with all his might as he held onto his partner's hand. This would be the longest two hours of his life he thought.

~~~~~~

   1879 same day & time

   Starsky woke to find Karl by his side "David! I'm so glad you're back. Your fever broke buddy, you're getting better."

   "Thanks to you Karl. I would of died without your help. Thanks buddy. Karl, can we get out of here? I need some fresh air."

   They walked down by the lake They passed an older gentleman who was taking pictures with his old Starsky thought old anyway photography equipment. Karl asked if he would take a picture of his friend and himself together. Starsky never saw Karl happier. He didn't know how he was going to tell him he was leaving him today. The picture was taken the one that Karl would keep in his journal.

   "Karl, it has been wonderful getting to know you, and I can't thank you enough for saving my life. Karl...I'm gonna have to go."

   "David, please don't. I've never had a friend like you. Life finally became fun and I felt there was really a purpose to all this..."

   "Karl, you're a wonderful doctor. You have a terrific future ahead of you. Karl...please don't. Don't cry. You know, you're gonna see me again. Remember all I told you?"

   Karl didn't know what to say or do. Starsky held his friend while he cried, finding that tears were escaping his own eyes as well. The thought of not seeing Karl again pained him, but the thought of what Karl must have felt hurt him even more.

   Starsky took off his favorite necklace and placed it in Karl's hands along with the picture of him and Hutch in front of the Torino.

   "David. I love you. You have been the best friend."

   "I love you too Karl. I'll be waiting for you ok?"

   With that Starsky took off the black leather vest and gave it to Karl. "I'll see you soon buddy." Starsky turned and hurried off. He couldn't bear to leave Karl alone and knew if he didn't go soon, he never would.

   1979 same day & time

   Starsky woke crying hysterically. Hutch held him close for what seemed like hours. He just left him cry, knowing how much courage it took for him to leave Karl behind. Starsky cried himself to sleep, never letting go of Hutch, his partner and best friend. Hutch cried too, for his partner's pain and for Karl. He could not imagine how he felt right now. Hutch knew he could not bear to lose Starsky. He wondered how Karl would be able to pick up the pieces.

~~~~~~

   "Hutch, I wonder what happened to Karl? I feel like I really let him down...let you down."

   "I don't know buddy, I know how you feel though." Hutch continued to hold his partner. He thought he'd feel better when it was over and Starsky was back for good. Instead he found himself with an overwhelming feeling of loss he could not explain, like part of himself had been taken away. He gripped his partner and held on tighter.

   "Hey buddy, your shaking. What's wrong Hutch?"

   "I don't know. I didn't think I'd feel this way. I'm worried about him. I wish I could talk to him. I know that sounds crazy. I'd want to tell him that things would be ok, but I know if it were me....me now...I wouldn't be ok."

   Starsky gently wiped at the tears slowly escaping Hutch's eyes. Both decided to walk down by the lake, thinking that somehow Karl would be able to sense their presence. That maybe somehow they would be able to comfort him...and themselves. They took old Doc Meyer's and Karl's journal's with them.

   They settled below an old oak tree in a secluded area near the lake. They decided to read further entries from the journals. Hutch began with doc Meyer's journal.

   October 25, 1879

   "Its been a slow day here at the office. I suppose that's a good, meaning our people must be well. I found Karl sitting in the back office staring at the exam table. Maybe he's just tired. He had been spending many long hours caring for David, his new friend. I don't want to push him, I know he'll talk when he is ready."

   October 26, 1879

   "I came into work this morning to find Karl in the same chair, unmoved from the night before. I'm worried about him. Tried to talk to him. He just asks to be left alone. Said he was gonna walk down by the lake."

   Karl's journal entries ended on October 25, 1879. Both officers felt a dread at not knowing what happened to Karl.

   "God Hutch...why did this happen to us?"

   "I don't know buddy. You might have died from that fever. You were losing ground fast. Maybe it was a sign and a blessing that Karl came through with the herbs that healed you...then and now. I just don't know Starsk."

   They looked further into doc Meyer's journal for any information they could collect on what happened to Karl.

   "I found something Starsk. Listen to this."

   October 25, 1880 one year later

   "I got a letter from Karl today. He seems happy with his move to Minnesota. I'm glad he found himself a good wife. Whatever happened one year ago changed him. He was so withdrawn for so long. I am glad to see that he has found some peace. Their baby was born on August 28, 1880. Little David Michael would be about two month's old now. I am so looking forward to seeing Karl and his family again."

   "Starsky...he named his son after you."

   Hutch saw the tears of happiness in his partner's eye's and put a loving arm around him.

   "Starsk, it seems that Karl did find some kind of peace. I'm sure it was in knowing that he would...I would...we...would see you again. It wasn't final buddy...it never will be. Even after we've done our time on this earth. You believe in soul mates Starsky? I do, and know that we are."

~~~~~~

   Both sat for a while collecting their thoughts before returning to Deppen's Inn. Upon returning they found two boxes on the table between the two beds in their room. They were simply labeled "David" and "Hutch".

   "Hey Hutch look. staring at the boxes How'd these get here and who are they from?"

   "I don't know Starsk, lets find out."

   Starsky read the not on the box labeled "David".

   "Thought you might like these. I know there your favorites. You really need to get better eating habits. Well, just enjoy them. It will be a while til I have to scold you about them again. Take care of yourself David. See you soon, Love Karl."

   Starsky opened the box to find a half dozen white cream filled donuts. He smiled and shook his head. Thanks Karl, I love you too thought Starsky.

   Hutch opened the note attached to the box that was addressed to him.

   "Hi Hutch. I feel like I know you...that must sound crazy huh? I've written some music for the guitar. I figured if I loved the guitar as much as I do, you might too. Please take care of David for me, for both of us. Guess I am kind of jealous, you get to have him all to yourself now. But I'll be there someday. Til then, All my love....Karl."

   Hutch opened the box to find several sheets of music, all signed 'Kenneth Hutchinson'. The handwriting was even identical to Hutch's.

   Starsky wiped at a tear that silently fell down Hutch's cheek.

   "It's gonna be ok Hutch. Karl is ok. He knows he'll be here someday and we know he's happy with his wife and little David Michael. God I'm happy for him Hutch."

   They left Mill Valley that afternoon, carefully packing the sheet music and both journals that they would treasure forever. They decided that what happened in Mill Valley would stay between just the two of them. They felt even closer to each other than ever...if that was possible. They knew they were given a special gift. They didn't know why and decided not to question it anymore....it didn't matter. They had each other and a bond that would never be broken.

THE END