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Post by nathan on Jan 13, 2008 14:26:02 GMT -5
Watcher Headquarters London.
Ever since Colin MacLeod left for Seacouver (and possibly parts unknown) Nathan Long felt restless and bored with common office work. The day to day routine of reading and signing off on field reports along with keeping tabs on which Immortal was still alive. All in all he'd rather be out in the field trying to find Colin or better yet...away from it all and relaxing in his garden.
The file in front of him was boring. Yet another Immortal in another town in Europe was beheaded. Nathan softly put the file down on his desk. Today he didn't want to hear about battles, he wanted a fix on Colin MacLeod. Last he heard he had made himself known to Joe Dawson who by request, had asked Nathan for his chronicle. Nathan liked and respected Dawson and he answered any questions Joe had put to him regarding Colin. After the interview Nathan wondered if Joe had taken anything about Colin had said seriously. He promised himself to call Dawson and have a follow through, but he hadn't got the time as of late.
The knock on his office door brought Nathan back to attention. The man standing in the doorway appeared to be in his early fifties. His black hair gray at the sides. The eyes blue. He stood at about five foot seven and didn't appear to have any single sign of a wrinkle on his face. he wore black wire glasses that made his profile tell the world that he was a well refined person.
The man's name was Sean Bryce, and he was the Assistant Executive Director Of the Watchers.
"Hullo Nathan." He greeted. "How are things?"
"You really have to ask Sean?" Nathan replied.
Sean nodded. "I see. But chances are this could be your lucky day."
"Oh?" Nathan wondered. "And why would that be?"
"Devon wishes to see you." Sean replied. "Right away."
"Dammit." Nathan sighed, and stood to leave the room/
"Now come on Nathan-" Sean began. "-hear him out first, please? I know you two don't see eye to eye but he's got something big for you."
"I'm being reassigned?" Nathan wondered, starting to get angry. Nathan disliked Devon Sather. He constantly changed assignments without giving any warning or notice. Devon almost ruled over the European section with an iron fist, but to his credit he got results and without any mortality rate concerning Watchers.
"Hardly!" Sean exclaimed, not keeping the joy out of his voice. "Everyone knows Colin's your assignment. He's just giving you someone else. Just come with me and he'll explain it."
In the end Nathan had no choice. He followed Sean up to the third floor of the Motherhouse and into the room at the far left. Sean opened the door and Nathan walked in.
Devon Sather was older than Nathan. He was in his late sixties and had white hair and cold gray eyes. He was an admiral in the Royal Navy before taking on this job and had seen many battles. He wore a white button down shirt with a navy blue bow tie. His slacks were also of a dark set blue and his shoes immaculately polished. Once he saw Nathan he waved for him to take a seat in one of the two chairs that were across his desk. Once Nathan sat down Devon went to his desk, picked up his pipe and lit it.
"The golden god has resurfaced." Devon said, in a gruff demeanor. "He just made Methos the undisputed worlds oldest Immortal."
Nathan couldn't choose which part to hear first. Golden god was the watcher nickname for Michael de Lioncourt. Apparently the Immortal had proclaimed himself that particular title during a party in 1973. He apparently was drunk and taking some kind of drug at the time when he made his announcement, then jumped off the roof of the house where said party was taking place and into the backyard swimming pool. A reporter from Rolling Stone magazine was at the party and needless to say the nickname stuck.
"Who was it?" Nathan finally asked. "I mean...who did he defeat?"
"David Ashton." Sather went on. "After centuries of fighting with him and his allies de Lioncourt finally pulls out the trump card and gives Ashton the spade he so rightfully deserves. Fairbanks, Armagoza, Dublin, Locke, all of David Ashton's cronies. And now the pompus snob himself finally gets his come up'ings."
Nathan whistled. "When?" he asked.
"Just this morning." Devon answered. "In Seacouver, Ashton's watcher: Harrison Blakney just filed it. Everyone's in shock and Harrison wants a fortnight's leave. It's not everyday when a four thousand year old man is knocked off by someone as..dare I say...young as de Lioncourt.
"What?"
Devon nodded." Apparently Michael also just bought a huge house there. Giving him a total of three properties: Seattle, Bahamas, and now Seacouver."
Nathan chewed that over. "I suppose he wanted it to get away from Seattle, his mansion still declared a state monument?"
"Exactly." Devon answered. "And none of those twits in Washington State have any clue that de Lioncourt's mansion is a replica of the family estate in Paris. However it's net value is estimated at 48 million dollars American."
Nathan smiled. "No wonder the state wanted it. How much will de Lioncourt receive if he agrees?"
Devon checked on his computer. "About half. The rest goes to either goes to charity or to the funds of of Microsoft or Boeing."
Devon shut down the computer and looked Nathan straight in the eyes.
"I'm giving you de Lioncourt." Devon said. "Since your MacLeod is in the area also you should be there. But make no mistake Nathan. Michael de Lioncourt is one of the best Immortals still around. Almost every Immortal..good or evil has heard of him. He's respected and he's a good man. Oddly enough he doesn't let his iconic status go to his head."
"Darius can be thanked for that sir." Nathan replied. "He taught Michael very well."
Devon nodded. "Yes, well just make sure he...or Colin for that matter come to any harm. That's all for now."
"Thank you." Nathan said, he stood and walked over to the door.
"Just a minute." Devon called.
Nathan turned around.
"I'll contact Joe Dawson. You won't have to report to him directly, but establish a friendly rapport with him. He can fix you up with whatever you might want or need. Good luck then Nathan."
Nathan nodded and left Sather's office. He wondered what the battle would have been and secretly wished he could see it. Michael de Lioncourt fought against titans, some battles he would lose, others he would win. But he never ever became arrogant over it.
Perhaps Devon giving Nathan the assignment was a sign that Sather wanted peace between them? Before he would leave for America he would ask.
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Post by delioncourt on Jan 14, 2008 13:12:26 GMT -5
Seacouver.
The beach house was half as big as the mansion. Moving from one place to another wasn't all that fun, in fact; doing the job alone was pure hell on the muscles. But to Michael it needed to be done, the mansion in Seattle was getting alittle too much attention. But he knew that if the whole of Washington State were going to pressure him to give up the home he built with his bare hands all in the name of prosperity and history could have made him laugh.
If they only knew...
In the end de Lioncourt knew he'd have to give the place up. But as some people would say: Change was sometimes a good thing. As he walked around the empty new house Michael started to see new additions he could make. Possibly make a hidden room for the 'older' stuff he'd collected during his 559 years of life.
He sighed. A new life in a new town, he chose Seavoucer for alot of reasons. Partly because it was inhabited by Immortals and the city was constantly growing. Michael figured he could actually do some good out here. The mortals seemed friendly enough and as for the Immortals...well, that would sort itself out eventually.
Michael started to unpack from the various boxes in the rooms. He started in the living room. Opening one box at a time. Not bothering to look at his watch to see the day dripping past so slowly.
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Post by nathan on Jan 16, 2008 13:19:47 GMT -5
Nathan arrived in Seacouver three days later.
He was greeted by two members of the West Coast Watcher HQ, promptly taken through customs, retrieved his luggage and swiftly escorted to Watcher headquarters. A spare room and office was set up for him and Nathan was promptly told to begin his assignments.
'So much for the warm reception.' He thought to himself, wondering if his presence on US soil would be a problem with the Americans?
He dismissed the notion as a knock was heard on his office door. A woman stood in the doorway. She had curly black hair tied back and gray eyes. She was pretty and stood at about five foot six inches. Her blue skirt cut off at the knees and the black blazer she wore had a hint of a white shirt she wore underneath. Her shoes were finely polished.
"You Nathan?" She asked.
"I am. " He answered. "And you might be?"
"Vivian." She replied. "Vivian Sanders."
The two shook hands. She continued.
"Sorry for the rough reception, it's really busy here. Seacouver could possib ly be called a wellspring of Immortal activity. You'll have alot of work cut out for you here. The EDOW isn't here at the moment either, he's on Vacation."
"Perfect timing." Nathan quipped, Vivian laughed.
"Who's your assignment?" She wondered.
"Colin MacLeod and Michael de Lioncourt." Nathan responded.
Vivia raised an eyebrow. "Seriously?"
Nathan nodded.
"We're scrambling to find anything availible on MacLeod..if he is a MacLeod that is."
"He is." Nathan answered. "His chronicle should be viewable by now."
"Well, anyhow-" Vivian went on. "-I'm to be your liaison until you feel familiar with the city. I don't know how you feel about sightseeing..but I'm to give you the full tour."
Nathan smiled. "That'd be fine."
"Excellent. Meet you out front in fifteen." Vivian replied, then headed off.
"Well, at least there's one cheerful person about." Nathan remarked. He took a last look about his office then headed to the front doors.
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Post by delioncourt on Jan 16, 2008 16:51:23 GMT -5
Taking a break from unpacking various boxes Michael decided to stroll around town. Sometimes taking a drive cheered him up, he kept rethinking the battle with Ashton. Michael was damned lucky to still be alive. It wasn't like he wasn't out of practice or even dull. David Ashton had a gap of four and a half millennium to Michael's 559 years of life.
Darius once told Michael that the hand of God can make or break your fate. Perhaps it was simply Ashton's time? Michael wondered if at some point in the duel he had out thought the elder Immortal. WHen faced against another, usually a person doesn't stop to dwell on how the fight is progressing; but usually all the thoughts cease and sword and body act in unison....
de Lioncourt shook the thoughts away as he drove. The fight was finished and he got to live to fight and see another day. Ashton wasn't a friend, he was a rival..more than that he was a prick. David could have been a good man at some point but Ashton got too snobbish in his ways and he never looked back.
Michael didn't take any pleasure in killing off Ashton's allies and friends down the centuries. But for humanity it needed to be done.
He saw a place entitled "Le Blues Bar" and drove into the parking lot, killing the engine and exiting the car. Pushing the button for the security alarm on his keyring. Michael entered the bar intent on enjoying a good drink and the company of people.
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Post by colin on Jan 16, 2008 18:42:39 GMT -5
Colin MacLeod was enjoying a scotch and soda, listening to the band covering Rufus Wainwright, Billie Holiday, Willie Dixon, and Robert Johnson. Colin didn't know much blues music but loved how much it infused itself with rock and roll. The band played delta, south, and brittish blues with a passion, he had to hand it to Dawson for finding talent.
He was considering leaving Seacouver. Duncan was too busy with his wife CJ. He defeated one Immortal here but he was young and foolish. Which is why Colin was drinking, to get the thoughts of the battle and quickening out of his mind.
Colin felt it was time to move on. What mattered was finding Marcus Octavius and ending his life once and for all. Wherever he was, Marcus proved to be well hidden. Colin could find no traces of him whatsoever, so Colin would look elsewhere.
He had time. Perhaps Washington D.C. New York, or even Chicago would turn up something?
When the buzz of another Immortal filled MacLeod's head, Colin rolled his eyes. He knew it wouldn't be Duncan or CJ to walk through the doors. However when he fixed his gaze on the entering Immortal he had to blink. The other Immortal walked over to the bar and apparently ordered a Guinness, then he walked over to a table nearest the band. Apparently the lead singer of the band recognized him also. As she was singing a slow blues number she smiled.
Colin found this all to be a bit odd. He knew the man from TV, a few magazines he picked up from time to time, and of course the songs on the radio. But he had to be sure so he slowly walked over to the man's table.
"Excuse me?" Colin asked. "Are you Ryan Plant?"
The man looked at Colin and nodded, then returned his attention to the blues band.
"Of Innuendo?" Colin continued, not keeping the disbelief out of his voice.
"I was once." the man replied, continuing to observe the house band. "But those days are gone. You are?"
"Colin MacLeod, of the Clan MacLeod."
That got the man's attention. He looked at Colin with a new interest in his eyes.
"A MacLeod? For real?"
Colin nodded.
"Please take a seat."
Colin did so and balanced his attention between the band and the other Immortal.
"I've heard alot of tales about the MacLeods. I never thought I'd ever meet one."
"Depends on which MacLeod you run into." Colin explained.
"Right." The other immortal took a sip of his ale. "By the way, my real name is de Lioncourt. Michael de Lioncourt."
"I've heard of you." Colin replied. "I'm just finding it hard to believe you and Ryan Plant are the same person."
"You a fan?" Michael wondered.
"A little." Colin admitted. "I won't ask for an autograph."
Michael laughed. "Good. I haven't signed one in 28 years."
"You know what people say: glory lasts forever." Colin added.
Michael nodded, they listened to the band perform a sudden impromptu session of Innuendo's Pathway to Eternity followed by Willie Dixon's I Can't Quit You Baby.
"So Colin, what brought you to Seacouver?" Michael asked after a while.
"To see if I had family here." Colin explained. Finishing his drink.
"And do you?" de Lioncourt wondered.
"Not really." Colin said, flatly.
Michael nodded. Apparently MacLeod seemed either put off by the subject or he felt uncomfortable. Michael was going to change the subject but Colin rose to his feet.
"I have to be going." Colin stated. "Nice meeting you de Lioncourt. Don't lose your head."
"Hope to see you again Colin. " Michael replied.
Colin nodded and left the bar and headed back home. He decided to stay in town alittle while longer. He'd love to see the look on Joe Dawson's face if he knew a rock legend was sitting in his table having a beer.
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Post by nathan on Jan 17, 2008 13:03:07 GMT -5
Vivian parked her Mazda into the backlot of Le Blues Bar just as Colin MacLeod was leaving. She and Nathan remained in the car as Colin entered his and drove off.
"And this is Joe's place." Vivian introduced. "You'd be surprised how many Immortals frequent this place."
"So I've noticed." Nathan remarked.
The two watchers exited from the car, locked the doors and walked inside the bar. Introductions were made to the assistant bartender inside who explained why Joe wasn't here today and the two sat on barstools. Vivian ordered a Rolling Rock and Nathan ordered a Guinness.
"Joe usually serves domestics in actual pints. You won't feel homesick for long." Vivian quipped.
Nathan laughed. "Thanks for showing me around by the way."
Vivian shrugged. "Same company, same family. You know?"
Nathan nodded. "I suppose. Even if it's a continent away."
Vivian smiled then turned her attention to her surroundings, wondering who was in the bar this afternoon. Her attention was caught to the stage band who was taking a break. The lead singer of the band was in conversation with someone at another table. It took her a few minutes to recognize the man but when she did Vivian smiled and returned to Nathan.
"Speak of the devil." She said.
"I beg your pardon?" Nathan wondered.
"The two people at the table nearest the stage, recognize one of them Nathan?"
Nathan cast a glance over to the table.
"Well-" He said. "-finding him was easily enough."
Vivian laughed. "I told you you'd be surprised."
"Your assignment ever wander here also?" Nathan wondered.
Vivian shook her head no. "Unfortunately I'm between assignments at the moment."
"My condolences Vivian."
"He deserved his fate. He wasn't a nice fellow anyhow."
Nathan nodded. "So, what now?"
"Let's stick around." She replied. "You never know what happens in this joint."
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Post by delioncourt on Jan 17, 2008 17:27:54 GMT -5
"I feel so foolish. I mean- I actually thought you were Ryan Plant."
Her name is Simone. She's the lead vocalist for Le Blues Bar's house band: Simone Colbert and The Strange Sensation. She was pretty. Her red hair was tied back into a ponytail, her jade green eyes looking directly at Michael. Simone wore a purple blouse with blue jeans and snake skin boots. She sat with Michael and ordered a drink while the rest of her band were at the bar.
"I mean you look so much like him, it's just odd." She went on. "I'm not trying to be insulting or anything but...wow."
Michael laughed alittle bit. "Don't worry about it. I get mistaken for him now and again."
"Are you related?" Simone wondered.
de Lioncourt shook his head. "No, sorry."
"Charlie and I..he's the drummer. To us Innuendo is possibly the best rock band ever. Ryan's lyrics were both deep and meaningful. You ever wonder why he never pursued a solo career?"
The dreaded question. Time and again Michael would be asked why or he'd read it in an article about why the vocalist of one of the worlds most revered rock band would leave the spotlight instead of containing on.
"He once said-" Michael began, then reached for his drink and finished it. "-that once it was decided by the surviving members that it was pointless to continue on without John Bradley. He realized that anything he would have done outside of Innuendo wouldn't match up so he left that part of his life behind him."
"Makes you wonder sometimes." Simone said.
Michael understood. At least she didn't bring up any reunion rumors.
"At least the music is still there." He offered.
"Yeah, I'm glad." She looked at her watch. "I'm going to talk to the guys, maybe we can get out early before tonight's session."
"Good luck." Michael said as Simone got to her feet and walked over to the bar.
He breathed a sigh of relief. Michael lost track of how many close calls he had with mortals recognizing him. He hoped time would forget about him, but forty years later it hadn't. He left a legacy that would outlive him one way or another. Some days he felt proud of that and others not so much.
A waitress took his glass and asked if he wanted another. Michael declined and remained where he was. He watched Simone and the rest of her band head out of the bar. Michael wondered if he should make a return trip to see them later on in the evening.
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Post by delioncourt on Jan 18, 2008 19:24:19 GMT -5
The next day.
Seacouver boasted the most beautiful coastline on the west coast and Michael had to agree. It was Seven O' Clock in the morning and the sun was just starting to rise. de Lioncourt loved sunrises, he'd seen alot of them in his life and every morning that he got to see one he was thankful.
The ocean in front of him was a myriad mixture of blue and green. The water looked clean to Michael and if he was dressed properly, he would have gone swimming..maybe surfing.
He walked a few miles along the shoreline and thought about yesterday. In truth he missed the band. He wondered what Jason and Paul were doing? The last time he had been onstage with them was the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 1995 when John's son, James Bradley was the temporary drummer. Before that was Live Aid in 1984 which didn't go over smoothly. The event was ragged with ego from all sides of the group and instead of marking a landmark occasion, Innuendo let Queen have Live Aid's finest moment.
But Michael did miss it. The music, the big stages, the sound of four people playing in perfect unison, the worship of the audience night after night. Fame was a drug.
He sighed. Those days were gone and Ryan Plant moved into obscurity, Innuendo would last forever and he'd have to be content as Michael de Lioncourt; Immortal.
He felt the buzz of another Immortal on the beach with him. Michael wished he was armed but he knew how to handle himself without a sword. As soon as the other Immortal came into view Michael's stomach turned.
The other Immortal stood at about five foot seven, with blond hair and brown eyes. As soon as he saw Michael he gave him a wicked smile. His brown leather coat zipped up and his beige carpenter pants neatly ironed. The brown loafers keeping away from the water, over his shoulders he wore a white scarf.
His name was Werner Eichmann, and de Lioncourt despised him.
"Guten tag. Herr de Lioncourt." Werner said. "It's good to see you again."
"Oh, If only I was armed Eichmann. Pity to see you in these parts." de Lioncourt replied.
"Ja. Isn't it? Or could it be coincidence?" Werner taunted.
"Stuff it you nazi." Michael answered. "Why are you here?"
Werner laughed. "Can't you guess?"
"Fine, when and where?"
"Tsk tsk tsk de Lioncourt. You ought to know me by now." Werner smiled, turning his back to Michael and walking away. "Until then, good to see you again and goodbye."
Michael didn't watch the other Immortal disappear. He also turned his back on the other Immortal and proceeded home. So much for longing for the old days, Michael considered. If madmen like Werener Eichmann were still out and about and gunning for him, then he'd better roll out the welcome mat.
Whatever swords he had available at the new house, they'd be perfectly sharpened.
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Post by nathan on Jan 19, 2008 14:36:32 GMT -5
Nathan was in his office filling in on the chronicles of de Lioncourt and MacLeod. He also briefly read through the standard reports about which Immortal died and where, Nathan could almost swear that the Watcher Database was thinning almost every week.
Vivian knocked on his door hurriedly. When Nathan faced her, Vivian's face showed concern and fear. It didn't take a senior Watcher to read the look on her face or experience, but instinct as well.
"What is it?" He asked.
"We have a code green." Vivian answered. "Rayne wants us all in the conference room right now. Come on."
Nathan got to his feet. "Who's Rayne."
"Brian Rayne." She explained. "Our AEDOW."
Nathan didn't ask anymore questions. He followed Vivian to the conference room. It was filled with twenty other field watchers sitting around a huge square table. Nathan took a seat on the left side while Vivian sat directly across from him.
As Brian Rayne arrived, no one arose from they're seats. Nathan noticed a distinct similarity beteween Patterson and the actor Jonathan Frakes. He wore a casual business suit and carried a thick folder in his right hand.
"Hello." He greeted. Laying the folder down on the table. "Sorry about the rush meeting but someone very dangerous has been spotted in our sector. "
"Who?" One of the Watchers asked.
"Werner Eichman." Rayne said, walking to the wall behind him and drawing down a small movie screen. Instantly a picture of Werner appeared. "He was spotted earlier this morning at St. Luther's Cathredal and has already made contact with Michael de Lioncourt. Is his watcher present?"
Nathan raised his left hand. Eichmann's name appeared several times in de Lioncourt's chronicle. Dating back to 1654.
Brian turned his attention to Nathan. "I know you're new and you've probably haven't gotten the gist of de Lioncourt's profile but believe me when I say there's plenty of bad blood between them."
Addressing the rest of the assembly now.
"In addition to being a maniac, Werner Eichman is very calculating. He'll stop at nothing to run his chosen victim down. If any of you spot him do not make contact with him. Anyone who does answers to me. Understand?"
There were grunts and nods of understanding around the table.
"With the exception of Vivian and Nathan, you're all dismissed."
Vivian and Nathan remained seated.
"I'm sorry to welcome you to Seacouver this way Nathan." Brian apologized. "But it's apparent that Eichmann is intent on killing de Lioncourt once and for all."
"You think he'll succeed?" Nathan wondered.
Brian didn't answer directly. "Perhaps. I know Michael is one of our best hopes but he'll be facing a highly skilled killer. Search his chronicle for Eichmann and you'll see numerous encounters. Some where Michael's barely escaped and others where he's let Werner run with his tail beteween his legs. They're constantly at war with each other."
"But de Lioncourt is a skilled, talented fighter." Vivian interjected. "He's damn near perfect. I saw him go up against Joe Jamali last year and Michael easily defeated him."
"Jean Paul Dukas also." Brian replied. "I know Michael has exceptional skills."
"Your actually worried if Eichmann will stick around." Nathan observed. "Go down the list of the city's Immortals."
Brian nodded. "Now you get it."
"Werner that good?" Vivian asked.
"For someone who employs more than a sword when it comes to battle?" Brian asked. "Yes. Does Xavier St. Cloud ring any bells?"
Vivian sighed. "Jesus."
"He uses the same tactics." Brian went on. "Mustard gas, bombs, whatever he sick mind can come up with."
"We'll be careful." Nathan promised.
"The both of you better be. Remember you two, make no contact with Eichmann whatsoever. Understood?"
Both Nathan and Vivian nodded.
Brian dismissed them and the two drove over to Le BLues Bar for lunch and to make plans.
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Post by delioncourt on Jan 22, 2008 16:49:28 GMT -5
As Michael unpacked a cart of the various swords he collected, he contemplated on which one to use against Werner. His standard weapon was the Tachi, it had a longer reach and like the Katana, could hack and slash a foe into bits.
Michael considered the rapier, but since it wasn't a duel between a gentleman why bother using it? Same with the sabre, it was used only in formal duels and had no place in a potential knock down drag out fight against Eichmann.
Then it came to him. He opened another crate and there it was.
The Heron-Mark Sword that was given to him by Kenji Okawa in 1547. Michael had earned it upon his 'graduation'. Kenji was a genius when it came to swordmaking and it had taken Michael a good long time to work up to Kenji's level. The training was rough but de Lioncourt got through it. The sword was a mixture of Eastern steel meeting European styling
And it would be the perfect weapon to send Werner Eichmann straight to hell with.
The first thing Michael did was take the sword, scabbard and all and inspect it. He hadn't used the weapon in a few years so it was in desperate need of a good sharpening and polishing.
He found a whetstone in a nearby box and began to sharpen the blade. After an hour of sharpening and watching Comedy Central; Michael surmised the blade was sharp enough. Next he took some polish from his garage and cleaned the blade until the blueish silver metal showed his reflection.
Out in the backyard, with the pacific ocean to his front and the sun overhead, Michael practiced until he couldn't tell the difference from his arms or his sword. His body performing movements without even thinking about them. Michael practiced for five hours until he broke out in a heavy sweat.
He felt better, more importantly he felt prepared.
He re-entered his house and went upstairs to take a shower. Put on some nice clothes and drove out to see what Seacouver had to offer.
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Post by delioncourt on Jan 25, 2008 14:02:15 GMT -5
St. Luke's Church: A few days later.
It was the only place Werner Eichmann would go to clear his head. Being a Lutheran since the day he was born he felt at home within the walls of holy ground.
Paying no heed to the rest of the assembly gathered around him, obviously praying, Werner considered if coming here was foolish error. He felt guilty for showing his hand too early. He was taught to act like a lion, hide in the shadows and stalk your prey before pouncing for the kill. He questioned himself, in the dimly lit setting; that perhaps simply gunning for de Lioncourt was premature?
After all, throughout the centuries Werner heard or witnessed the progression of the frenchman from his beginnings as a clumsy, arrogant fighter to a highly skilled, highly trained swordsman. Usually Eichmann could admire and almsot respect such an Immortal, but not Michael de Lioncourt. He had killed alot of Werner's allies and rivals alike. From the Immortal Council that secretly planned to kill Watchers and Hunters to the people that Werner simply couldn't stand.
The urge to become jealous rose like bile in Eichmann's throat.
And Werner wasn't surprised to feel the buzz of another Immortal. In fact he didn't even have to turn to the massive doorways to recognize who it was.
de Lioncourt walked to the first pew on the left hand side and sat down. He put his hands together and prayed. Werner, seated at the back on the right hand side got up from his position and seated himself in the pew behind de Lioncourt.
A good half hour passed before a word was spoken by either of them. People who had been praying had left the church, leaving two or three mortals within the building.
"Not surprising you'd come." Eichmann said.
"Mapquest." Michael admitted. "This is the only Lutheran Church in Seacouver."
"Nice detective work Holmes." Werner scoffed. "You figure all that by yourself?"
de Lioncourt turned to face the other Immortal. "What do you want?" "Your head-" Eichmann replied.
Michael laughed.
"-and The Prize."
"It'll never happen." Michael retorted. "You're as good as dead."
"Ja? That really so?"
Michael nodded, a grim smile on his face. Both Immortals didn't notice the two Watchers close to them, sitting across on the other pews.
"I don't think so de Lioncourt. As a matter of fact I think it shall be I who finally puts you in the ground, where you belong."
"Care to find out? Right now?" Michael wondered.
Werner shook his head. "Why are you in such a hurry to die? Nien, I shall savor this. After all, I owe you so much."
"Oh?"
Werner smiled, raising his voice. "You and your friends interfered with our plans. If you had seen how evil The Watchers were then you'd have joined The Council willingly, instead you and your 'Order' get in the way and protect them."
"None of you had the right to end the lives of any of them." Michael replied. "They observe and record, but they never interfere. The Hunters may have crossed the line but The Council did as well. You all killed innocent famlies and people who had nothing to do with us or them."
"Semantics!!" Werner yelled. "Friends, families, neighbors...it didn't matter. If a mortal knew one Watcher he'd know them all. We didn't take chances."
"You got careless." de Lioncourt scolded.
Werner stood, Michael doing the same. "What does it matter? In the end we're the Gods and they're cannon fodder for us. If I had my way every mortal would bow to my every whim."
"Not while I live and breathe." Michael and Werner locked eyes.
Calming, Werner sat back down. "No matter who you defeat de Lioncourt, you'll always be weaker than me."
"I'll be out front." Michael replied, starting to walk for the exit.
"Goodbye de Lioncourt. We shall meet soon enough."
Michael smiled and left, Nathan Long and Vivian Sanders weren't too far behind.
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Post by nathan on Jan 25, 2008 20:29:57 GMT -5
"What was all that about?" Vivian asked, driving in her purple Mitsubishi Eclipse to Watcher Headquarters, Nathan was in the passenger seat contemplating.
"An Immortal Council plotting to murder watchers?" She went on. "That's insane, it would have led to all out war."
"What matters now is that we report back to HQ." Nathan replied. "I think Werner gave us the pieces to a big, unfulfilled puzzle."
Vivian glanced quickly at Nathan. "Meaning?" "The mass killings of both Watchers and Immortals-" Nathan explained. "-In both here and in Europe between 1994 and ending in 2001. This 'Council' as Werner explained could have been the culprits."
"That doesn't make any sense." Vivian interjected. "We would have known. There are protocols we take to ensure they don't know about us."
"What bothers you the most about this?" Nathan wondered. "The fact that they worked under our own radar or that we never suspected in the first place and were instead looking for insiders?"
Vivian ignored the question with her own."And what about de Lioncourt and this 'Order'? You can't believe they were protecting us, can you?"
"I think-" Nathan answered carefully. "-that if de Lioncourt and the group he was involved in were protecting us then they all did a good job in the end."
"So Immortals know about us?"
"If they do Vivian, they've kept they're distance."
Vivian sighed. "First of all when we get back we have to check Werner's chronicle and do some backtracking, find out who his buddies were and see if he was telling the truth."
The rest of the drive was spent in silence. They both knew that once this was made public to Watcher circles, questions would be asked. Questions that could possibly never see the light of fay.
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Post by nathan on Jan 27, 2008 23:38:18 GMT -5
Midnight.
Nathan was in his office looking over reports from the previous days since Werner Eichmann came to Seacouver. His office was covered in darkness save for the one solitary reading lamp on his desk and the soft glow of his laptop. Earlier, Vivian got a lead as to the place where Eichmann might be staying; she told Nathan that she was going to check the place out and Nathan agreed he'd stay at headquarters and keep his phoneline open for her.
That was six hours ago.
He wondered if Vivian was alright? He should have heard from her by now. When his phone rang Nathan didn't have to wonder who it was.
"Vivian? You alright?" Nathan asked.
"Nathan?" She asked. The tone of Vivian's voice was shaken, she was afraid. He hated the next words that came out of her mouth.
"He's got me." She. said.
Nathan jumped out of his seat. "What?"
It was Werner's voice he heard next.
"If you want to see your friend again Mr. Watcher-" Werner taunted. "-you'll come to the docks in one hour Ja?"
"You hurt her and I can't protect you." Replied Nathan as calmly as he could. "My people would hunt you down to the ends of the earth. Let her go and-"
Werner laughed, Nathan wished he was right across from Eichmann so he could have slapped that arrogant laugh up.
"First off Mr. Watcher you have nothing to negotiate with. Secondly, her life is in your hands so if you do anything stupid such as inform your superiors she dies, comprehend?"
"Fine."
"And no weapons ja? You agree to my terms and you both go home alive."
"I said alright!" Nathan yelled into his phone. He heard the click of the other line. Nathan hung up, sighed and cast his gaze up at the ceiling.
Nathan considered that this needed discretion, and most importantly...kept out of the light of his and Vivian's superiors. In cases like this the first thing to do is tell the higher up's. But they take too much time to develop a full plan of attack, and in that time Werner would kill Vivian and then high tail it out of the city.
Against his reasoning, There was only one person who could help him. And hopefully he'd be home.
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Post by delioncourt on Jan 28, 2008 13:12:49 GMT -5
"I know where Werner Eichmann is going to be." Nathan Long said, standing in front of Michael de Lioncourt's front door.
He didn't need any other introduction as to whom the man was, and if he had come to Michael directly, then the man was troubled.
"First of all." Michael began. "Don't tell me your name. You obviously know alot about me so don't feel the need to share any details about you. I can guess the organization you're with so just tell me why you're here."
Michael motioned Nathan to step inside. Nathan did so, keeping within the main hallway.
"Werner is holding a co worker hostage." Nathan explained. "He wants me to meet him at the docks in half an hour...alone."
"Don't you have protocols to follow?" Michael asked.
Nathan sighed. "We do, but it would take too long and she'd be dead."
"You have a plan?" de Lioncourt asked.
Nathan nodded. "I go in alone, you show up and distract Eichmann enough for me to get my friend out of harms way."
"Ok." Michael agreed. "But if he kills me then you both had better get as far away from as possible, understand?"
Nathan agreed and they shook hands. Michael went upstairs to retrieve his Tachi and the two of them drove to the Seacouver docks.
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Post by nathan on Jan 28, 2008 17:24:39 GMT -5
Nathan did as instructed and arrived alone. He found Werner in front of a warehouse. He hoped that de Lioncourt, once he had gotten out of Nathan's rented car would be the Immortal walking away tonight. But for the moment Nathan had to concentrate on Werner, make the Immortal feel at ease.
Werner was wearing a gray shirt and black pants. He had the audacity to wear brown boots and a brown trenchcoat. He had his hands in his pockets and was leaning against the door of the warehouse.
"Guten tag, Herr Watcher." Werner greeted.
"The woman, where is she?" Nathan demanded.
"She is safe for now. But before I release her I want some information."
"What kind of Imformation?"
"Michael de Lioncourt.
"Who?"
Werner shook his head, from one of his pockets suddenly came a Smith and Wesson police special .38 caliber.
"Don't play games with me." Eichmann growled. "You know where he is and you know how to find him. So do it."
Nathan shook his head, negatively. "Sorry. We're not a spy network."
Werner grinned. "Then I have no use for both of you." He raised the handgun.
"Such a pity Ja?" He asked, slowly pulling the trigger back. Then suddenly something else caught his attention. He scanned the area with wide eyes and a look of puzzlement written on his face.
Michael de Lioncourt appeared, tachi at the ready, from a pile of crates on the left hand side and behind Nathan. His long hair tied back and the long sleeve purple shirt tucked into the black cargo pants. His black trenchcoat flapping in the light wind.
"One shall stand, one shall fall." Michael said.
"Why throw your away so easily de Lioncourt?"
"Ask yourself Eichmann. Tonight it ends."
Werner replaced the gun for his Kung Fu Sword.
"You're right about one thing Frenchman, come and get it!"
The two Immortals ran towards each other and their blades clashed in equaled hatred of each other. Nathan took a few steps backwards and ran to the closest window of the warehouse he could find. Apparently they were out of his reach and way too high up. He supposed the keys to the door were on Eichmann. So he returned to the fight and did his job...watch and record.
They both fought quick and furious. Werner fought with a style Nathan never had witnessed before but the German proved that he lacked the skill to keep up with de Lioncourt. While Werner slashed and sometimes landed on Michael's legs or upper arms, Michael's blade hacked and slashed Eichmann's arms and torso more than Eichmann had gotten to de Lioncourt.
Deadlocked, and sensing that he might lose the battle; Werner punched Michael in the nose and began to make a speedy retreat. Michael quickly recovered and chased after Eichmann. Werner took off his trenchcoat and threw it aside, running to the end of the docks.
de Lioncourt slowed his pace, Werner had nowhere to go exzcept for the freezing cold waters below. Eichmann turned to see Michael blocking his path to freedom. de Lioncourt took a defensive stance and waited for Werner to make his move.
Nathan inspected the fallen trenchcoat and found a pair of keys. he ran back to the Warehouse and found the key for the front door. Vivian was tied to a chair and gagged. He untied the fabric from her mouth.
"You ok?" he asked.
"Forget about me!" She ordered. "There's a battle you have to be witnessing, go!"
Ignoring her, Nathan quickly untied VIvian and as soon as she was free, she easily got up and the two ran to the scene of the battle.
In those few moments alone, Werner was very worse for wear. He had a deep gash on his throat and his right forearm was missing. He took a few steps back then did something that took everyone by surprise.
With his remaining arm, Werner raised his sword to his face and saluted Michael de Lioncourt.
Michael held his ground, looking into Werner's eyes. Without warning they both charged for each other, both preparing for the final strike where one of the Immortals would lose his head.
They both swung and only Werner's head jerked upwards slightly. They both stopped and looked at each other. A look of confusion on Werner's face and one of tiredness on Michael's. Werner pointed to Michael's neck, not seeing any cut whatsoever.
Werner gave a short laugh, grinned for the final time, then sank to his knees, then fell face first onto the wooden planks that constructed the docks. His head went rolling straight into the waters.
"Oh thank god." Vivian said softly. Her and Nathan watching from a safe distance.
Werner Eichmann's quickening enveloped de Lioncourt in a blue and white blaze. Sparks of electricity flowed into and around him. de Lioncourt screamed as he was lifted up into the air. Memories of Eichmann's life flowed into Michael consciousness. and as The Quickening increased lamp posts exploded, boxes splintered into pieces, anything electrical within the area either activated automatically or exploded in violent fury.
Then it was over. The last thing the two Watchers saw was Michael de Lioncourt slowly getting to his feet, collecting both swords and making a stealthy escape.
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