The low, steady hum that often sounded like quiet laughter was suddenly disturbed by a blue flashing sound that was instantly recognizable to those who guarded him. Joe Dawson needed our presence.

Joe is always watched by one or more of us, his Guardian Angels. Depending on the events that are to occur in his life, we may take turns or we may all be there for support. This was one of those times.

One of us had been watching Joe during this time of trial. The alarm was sounded when his judgment time was near. As the sun rose on this day, we arrived to be by his side. As he proudly walked out of the building and through the arch into the green field, we went with him. We stood by him as he said goodbye to his longtime friend, the one who had judged him as a betrayer of his Watcher's oath.

We stood by him as he proudly refused to lower himself and kneel at the feet of the executioner. As he crossed himself, we clasped our hands and prayed with him, providing him the comfort he sought. We knew that this was not the end of Joe's purpose in life, but also knew that he needed the comfort of prayer at this time.

We braced ourselves for what was to come. This part was one of the most difficult parts of our jobs. Flinching at the repeated retorts of a firing gun, we watched as Joe crumpled to the ground. Swiftly dropping to the damp grass, we knelt by him, placing our hands over him, assisting nature in slowing his heart beat and his breathing.

This, too, was a difficult time for us. We knew that assistance was coming, yet we were never sure whether it would arrive in time. There have been errors in the history of guardianship, when unforeseen delays caused an unexpected end to a promising life. As we watched the life begin to slip from Joe's body and the imperceptible loosening of his muscles, we prayed that this was not one of those times.

As we waited and prayed for Joe's miracle, we watched the other Guardian Angels that were with their assignments. These Angels began completing their job by escorting the souls of those who would not survive. Soon the air was filled with white wraiths, resembling clouds floating in the clear blue sky.

Feeling a new Guardian's presence, we looked up to see Duncan MacLeod stop at the top of the hill and gaze down at the carnage. Reading the dismay on his face, we watched as he ran down the hill to Joe. As he reached Joe, we blew gently, creating a gentle breeze that dried the tears of pain, allowing them to be replaced with the tears of joy at finding Joe still alive.

Watching him lift Joe and cradle him with tenderness, we knew that Joe's miracle had arrived in time. Knowing Joe was in good hands and would survive to continue his journey, one of us remained with him and the rest returned to our area until we were needed again.