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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:30:19 GMT -5
It was pitch black around him...only a pale bluish light shone on the silhouette standing on the embankment in front and just above him. He was unable to make out any features of his challenger, only that they were a smaller build than him and was holding a very shiny Katana in a position of readiment. The silhouette never spoke as they clashed blade to blade, the steel singing in the darkness and sparks flying like lightening bugs, nor did his opponent utter a sound. The silhouette moved silently, gracefully and skillfully blocking every one of Duncan's attacks and managed to out maneuver him on several occasions by using skill, speed and surprise. A couple of times their blades locked and he almost got close enough to see who his opponent was.
MAC 's gut told him this was definitely someone he knew, because the style and some of the tactics used seemed so familiar. But each time he would get close enough his opponent would find a way out of his grasp, cornering or locked swords. The battle intensified as his opponent became more on the offensive and with more aggression until Duncan found himself questioning if he was going to be able to beat this small but skillful and determined opponent. The silhouette began slashing viciously and with such rapid succession that Duncan was forced backward and downhill. It was all Duncan could do to continually block his opponent's attacks. The heel of Duncan's boot hit up against a dead tree root and caused him to stagger backward, eventually losing his balance and falling backward across a large boulder protruding from the soil.
MAC tried to do a shoulder roll and bring himself to his feet, still facing his attacker, but the silhouette was far too fast and seemed to know he would attempt that move, because his opponent moved swiftly close enough to use its foot to shove his body sideways and send him sprawling to the ground, his Katana falling from his grasp and ending up just out of reach.
MAC rolled onto his back, raised his knees almost to his chest and when the silhouette got closer, extended both legs, planting his feet firmly in his opponent's abdomen with enough force to send the silhouette flying back up the embankment several feet, giving Duncan time to get to his feet and retrieve his sword . As soon as Duncan's Katana was in his hand, before he even had time to straighten up, he could see the glint of his opponent's blade. He twisted his body so it was somewhat facing his attacker and at the same time raised his sword and blocked a forceful downward slash. Using the momentum his arm gained as it raised his sword to block his opponent's thrusts to carry his arm beyond the necessary point to efficiently block the attacks and connect his elbow with his opponent's face causing it to stagger backward and that was when he heard the silhouette make any verbal sound. He heard a moan of pain and surprise. But what completely took Duncan by surprise was that he realized that his opponent was female. He got to his feet and moved toward the silhouetted figure that had staggered back and ended up kneeling on one knee. She raised her sword to block any attack he might make. That was when Duncan made a near fatal mistake. He hesitated in rallying as she had done him when he was down.
MAC 's opponent wasted no time. She saw the hesitation and took full advantage of the momentary lapse and thrust her sword into Duncan's abdomen and then all the way through.
MAC responded with a cry of pain and a look of surprise. He placed his hands on his opponent's that were still on the hilt of her sword and forced them backward thereby pulling the sword out of his body. Then when he was sure it was almost out, he threw himself backward which not only finished removing the blade, but moved him a far enough distance from his enemy to be able to parry any thrust she might attempt, until, that is, he lost consciousness from the severe wound he had just sustained. Her sword slid out smoothly and Duncan staggered back several steps before allowing himself to fall backward to the ground. The silhouette took several steps toward him and on the last, lunged with her sword leading.
MAC summoned as much strength as he could and stretched one leg out on the ground, timing it perfectly so that it tripped his attacker. Duncan's thinking was becoming fuzzy as unconsciousness threatened him and he didn't consider the way she would fall after being tripped and was momentarily surprised when she fell forward and, although she twisted her body to try and avoid landing directly on top of Duncan, she did anyway.
MAC 's opponent struggled to get to her feet, but Duncan grabbed her shoulders and rolled her over so that she lay on her back and pinned beneath him. She struggled hard under his weight and he knew he wouldn't be able to fight her for long and he knew that him losing consciousness was exactly what she was waiting for. Then with one swift slice of her sword she would take his head and his Quickening. He wanted to see who it was who would be living the rest of his life for him. A stream of light, seemingly sunlight, filtered down from somewhere above and spot lighted the ground about a foot away from them so Duncan managed to scoot her and him over to the small spot of light and when he had her in it he moved sideways just enough for the light to fall on her face. At first Duncan froze and stared in disbelief at the struggling female. He stared in shock for a few seconds (although they seemed much longer), then he caught her flailing hands and pinned them along side her head.
MAC found his voice and spoke as evenly and gently as possible.
[MAC] Cara. Cara, stop. It's me. Cara don't do this. Please, sweetheart. I know it's you. Please recognize me. Please see me. Baby please stop. Cara...
MAC 's voice trailed off as the girl underneath him showed no recognition of him and brought her knee up sharply into his groin. As darkness began to creep to the edges of Mac's vision and slowly began to darken the world around him, Duncan dropped to the ground and rolled on his side, his back to the girl. He could hear her struggle to her feet, heard her retrieve her sword.
MAC heard her footsteps as they came closer and he could feel an energy from her body as she stood over him.
[MAC] Cara, please don't do this.
MAC pleaded. Then he heard her inhale and he knew she had raised her sword over her head. "There can be only one," he heard her say and he turned to look into her eyes as her blade swept downward.
MAC wakes up soaking wet from sweat and shaking uncontrollably He grabs the extra pillow and hugs it to him as he tries to calm himself down. He waits to see if Liam or Wyn come rushing into his room. When they don't he realizes his scream was in his dream and not out loud. Eventually he is no longer shaking but his heart rate is still racing. He sits on the edge of the bed, leans over and places his elbows on his knees and his head in his hands. After several minutes he gets dressed in a pair of sweat pants and slips down the hall and out into the back yard where he begins a strenuous Kata to try and chase the nightmare away.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:30:49 GMT -5
The year is 1855 in a Sioux village. Inside a domed structure made of twigs and mud a Shaman and a young girl with long red hair sat on either side of a small fire and faced each other. The temperature inside the structure was very warm and humid and sweat ran off of both their faces. The girl was dressed in pants and a shirt made of deer hide. The shirt had only minimal designs painted on the front. Her hair hung loose around her shoulders and she wore a 1" head band across her forehead made of woven beads and horse hair. Although her hair was the color of carrots her skin was not the fair, freckled complexion one would expect. Instead it was a golden brown, tanned by many days spent in the sun. The shaman reached over the small fire and sprinkled something into the flames which caused them to flare up and create a bluish smoke that filled the air with the scent of sage. Although he spoke in the native Sioux language, the girl in front of him understood what he was saying and listened intently. Her respect for this man was obvious in her green eyes as she sat cross legged, her back erect, her hands resting on her knees. "Although you are not born of our people," the Shaman spoke quietly, "you have lived as one of us, worked along side of us, hunted along side of us and fought with us. When you came to us a year and a half ago, you were grown but a child in many ways. Even then I knew you were special. My wife, Owaci Tahca, saw it, too and urged me to bring you into our family. You have learned beside our sons and Owaci Tahca and I have come to look upon you as our daughter. You told us your wasicu caje but it is time that we give you your Sioux name for you are truly one of us." The Shaman sprinkled something into the fire that caused it to flare up and a red colored smoke filled the air of the hut with the scent of cinnamon. The girl's posture had not changed but the expression on her face was now mixed as she fought back a proud smile and a tear trickled down her cheek, but she said nothing. The Shaman stood and walked around behind her and stopped. He shook a rattle over her head and began a Sioux chant. The girl closed her eyes and raised her head slightly so that her face was looking upward. The Shaman's chant ended and he returned to his place across from the girl and sat down. He once again sprinkled something into the fire, the flames flared and a bluish green smoke filled the air with the scent of sage and pine. He made a clicking sound with his tongue and the girl opened her eyes and looked at him. "From this day forward, you shall be known to all Sioux as Peta Tokala, daughter of Apawi Wabli and Owaci Tahca," he said a little louder than before and with authority. He tossed something into the fire and the flames flared up high with a loud crackling noise, but this time there was no smoke. The girl remained seated and repeated her new name over and over in her head. Sun Eagle passed a small bowl woven from the bark of a maple tree. She took the bowl and looked into it then back up to Sun Eagle who gave her a slight nod. She reached into the bowl and took out a black "button" half the size of a dime1, put it in her mouth and handed the bowl back to Sun Eagle. Slowly she chewed the "button" then swallowed it. She closed her eyes and began chanting. The Shaman picked up a larger bowl filled with water and poured it on the hot rocks along side the fire and steam filled the small hut. He got up and moved to the blanket covered door, lifted the blanket and stepped outside as a woman around his age stepped into the hut and dropped the blanket back over the door. The woman wore an ankle band that had a single bell on it and when the girl heard the bell she stopped chanting, opened her eyes and looked at the woman. The woman smiled proudly at the girl who began to undress. Once she was naked she sat cross legged nearer to the hot rocks which the woman doused again with water creating more steam in the hut. The woman began to chant and the girl closed her eyes and began to sway from side to side in rhythm with the chanting. Soon the girl began to have visions. They were of many faces. She saw a white man, tired and haggard looking, a white woman with red hair like hers, a Calvary soldier, a Sioux brave, Sun Eagle, Dancing Deer, Rain Cloud and Sleeping Bear (their sons), a white wolf, a white man she didn't recognize with long dark hair and gentle brown eyes, a young woman she also didn't recognize with short dark hair, fair complected holding a sword and again the white wolf. The wolf stayed in her vision moving closer then farther away, then closer. Then another face appeared and became a whole person...a man the red haired girl didn't seem to recognize either. He was man of average height and weight with light brown...almost blond hair and cold steel blue eyes. The expression on his face was one of sadistic pleasure. The wolf began to growl and stepped between the man and her, his growling becoming more vicious. The man began to laugh and foam began to form around the wolf's mouth as he became angrier. The man stepped forward and the wolf lunged. The man's face disappeared into the wolf's mouth. The girl gasped and opened her eyes.
KACEY sits straight up in bed. Sweat trickles down her face and her short brown hair is matted to her scalp. She is shivering. She pulls the covers up around her.
KACEY keeps seeing the wolf and the man in her mind. She doesn't understand what or even who she was dreaming about. As she begins to calm down she goes over the dream once more trying to remember every detail. As each face passes through her mind she looks at it carefully but recognizes none until she gets to the man with the long dark hair. He, she recognizes. But who the other people are is beyond her. And if there was anything symbolic about the dream....she can't figure it out. The dream was far from being what one would consider a nightmare but it was unnerving and she doesn't want to rush right back to sleep for fear of dreaming it again, so she gets up, removes her pajamas and dresses in a pair of sweat pants and a sweat shirt and goes up to the rooftop patio of her boathouse and begins a strenuous Kata.[/i]
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:31:19 GMT -5
KACEY is sitting on her bed looking at her laptop screen. She reaches for her cell phone and dials a number.
Horton checks his caller ID before answering the phone. Then he presses a button on a console on the arm of his wheelchair and speaks into the headset he's wearing.
[Horton] Speak to me, sugar.
Horton says trying to sound nice but his voice still has a sadistic quality to it.
[KACEY] Hey, boss. I got a message that said you wanted to talk to me?
[Horton] That I do. Any luck on finding our two boys?
[KACEY] Yes and no.
[Horton] And just what is that supposed to mean?
Horton 's tone has changed to one of sternness.
[KACEY] I know where Greg is. I just can't get to him yet. But I'll find a way. And I haven't located Seamus yet. I know he's in town I just don't know where yet. There's about 4 motels I have to check yet so it's gotta be one of those.
[Horton] I'm being told that time is running out for those two. We can't afford to have them running around loose They could pose some very serious problems.
[KACEY] Yes, sir. I know and I'm working on it. Once I terminate them will I have another assignment here or will i have to come right back?
KACEY asks while chewing her lower lip thoughtfully.
Horton 's curiosity is peaked at her question.
[Horton] Why do you ask, Duggan?
[KACEY] I was just curious is all, sir.
[Horton] Is there some reason you want to stay?
Horton is somewhat worried that Seacouver may be feeling too much like home to her.
[KACEY] Well....I....ummmm...
[Horton] Speak up, girl.
[KACEY] I was just wondering if I HAVE to wait for an assignment or if I can take the initiative on my own?
[Horton] Take the initiative to do what?
[KACEY] Well....what if i happen to come across someone from our Most Wanted files. would I have to wait until it was an official assignment or could I strike while the iron is hot...so to speak?
Horton smiles somewhat proudly.
[Horton] You have come across someone like that, I take it.
[KACEY] Yes, sir. Actually 3. And it wouldn't take me much longer than a couple of days each. After I take care of my primary assignment first, of course.
[Horton] Well.....I guess if I were to allow anyone to think for themselves it would be you Duggan. You are the best I've got. If you think you can handle the extra assignment without any problems and get back here then go for it. Your success will determine how much slack I cut you the next time.
[KACEY] Thank you, sir. I won't let you down. I promise.
[Horton] And just who are the three targets?
[KACEY] Liam O'Dell, Connor MacLeod and Duncan MacLeod.
Horton almost gasps. He can't believe that she wants all three and feels confident enough to handle all of them. There's a big part of him that has trepidations about it but there is a bigger part of him that is busting with pride. he wants to roll through the corridors boasting his success to all those who had doubted this one would work.
[Horton] Tell you what, Duggan.....
Horton says thoughtfully.
[Horton] Why don't you take one at a time and see how it goes. Things will be hot after you finish your primary assignment so there may not be enough time for all 3.
[KACEY] Yes, sir. Whatever you say, sir.
KACEY says disappointed. "I could do all 3," she thinks to herself. "I know I could."
[Horton] Patience, sugar. You'll get your chance. Now...is there anything else?
[Horton] Fine. Then I expect a favorable report on locating Monro the next time you check in.
Horton looks at the clock on his desk.
[Horton] Which should be in about 14 hours.
Horton hangs up without a word.
KACEY hangs up and puts her cell phone on the night stand. She looks at the three photographs laying on the bed next to her.
[KACEY] Okay....which one of you gets to be the lucky one?
KACEY thinks about her fantasy and picks up one of the photos and smiles.
[KACEY] Yes ladies and gentlemen....we have a winner.
KACEY says aloud to her empty room. She lays back on the pillows and closes her eyes, reliving her fantasy....which will soon become a reality.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:32:15 GMT -5
Delwyn picks up her cell phone and dials the number Seumus gave her.
Seumus gets up from the chair he’s been sitting in, mutes the tv, and answers his cell. “Hello...” Delwyn: Hi, Seumus. It’s Wyn. Seumus’s lips twitch into a smile. “I didn’t think you were ever going to call.”[Delwyn] I apologize for that. Things got a bit crazy after we ran into each other. Delwyn takes a bit of a breath before she continues. “I was wondering if you’d like to meet up for dinner?
Seumus’s smile broadens. “I would like that. There’s a nice restaurant here in the hotel. How about we eat there?”[Delwyn] That would be great. I’ll be there around 7 o’clock? Seumus: That’s fine. Delwyn hangs up her phone and glances to the clock on her dresser. She has a couple of hours before she meets with Seumus.
Seumus hangs up.
Delwyn dials Liam’s number to tell him where she would be this evening. He doesn’t answer so she leaves a message for him. “Liam, it’s Wyn. I’m going to be meeting up with Seumus tonight for dinner at his hotel. I talk to you when I get back home. I love you.” She hangs up and drops her cell onto the bed. She goes to her closet to decide on what to wear.***Two hours Later*** Delwyn pulls into a parking spot in the downtown Marriott’s parking lot. She gets out of her car. She adjusts her black skirt so the hem is at her knees. She grabs her coat with her sword in it’s lining and closes the door. She walks to the hotel. A doorman opens the door for her. As she steps in, she feels the buzz ripple through her. Her eyes dart around the lobby looking for Seumus.
Seumus walks out of the elevator and into the lobby as he feels the buzz. He looks around and see Wyn in the lobby. He walks over to her. “Good evening.”[Delwyn] Evening. Delwyn lets her gaze go over him quickly. He looked somewhat better that when she ran into him. She could see the light smudge of darkness under his eyes, though.
Seumus takes Wyn’s hand and raises it to his lips. He places a kiss on the back of her hand. “Shall we go to dinner?” He holds out his arm to her.
Delwyn tries to pull her hand away from him, but it’s futile. She was hoping the evening wasn’t going to consist of her beating Seumus off of her, but she had a feeling that maybe exactly what she’s doing. She takes his arm.
Seumus walks them toward the restaurant. He gives the hostess his name.
The hostess leads them to a table in the corner of the restaurant, places the menus on the table and walks away.
Seumus walks over to a chair and pulls it out for Wyn.
Delwyn sits down in the chair.
Seumus takes the other chair and sits to her left.[Seumus] I’m glad you decided to call me. It will be like old times. Seumus says with a glint in his eye.
Delwyn looks at Seumus. “No, not quite like the old times you’re thinking of, Seumus.” She picks up the menu and glances through her options.
Seumus frowns a bit. “So, it seems you love the Irishman, then?”
Delwyn lays the menu on the table and looks at Seumus. “Yes, I’m in love with him.” She sighs a bit. “If you had other motives than just having dinner...”[Seumus] Who said I *have* other motives? Delwyn quirks a brow. “I’m not stupid, Seumus. We have a history and every time we’ve run into each other...” She sits back in her seat, “Besides, I saw how jealous you were when you saw that I was with Liam.”
Seumus feels a prickle of jealousy and anger go through him when she says Liam’s name. He picks up his menu. “I just didn’t think he’d be your type.” He says nonchalantly.
Delwyn could feel her ire rising, but she kept her mouth shut knowing he was trying to push her buttons. She picks up her menu again.
The waitress walks over to the table. “What can I get you to drink?”
Seumus looks at the waitress. “We’ll have a bottle of Merlot.”
The waitress nods and walks away.
Delwyn closes the menu and looks at Seumus, studying him carefully. Did she see discoloration on his temple?
Seumus can feel Wyn’s eyes on him. He closes his menu and looks at Wyn. “Am I to your liking?” He gives her a bit of a mischievous smirk.
Delwyn rolls her eyes and folds her hands in her lap. “You haven’t changed much since we’ve last seen each other. Go back to the last time we saw each other and that should give you the answer you’re looking for. But that was for then, not now, so don’t delude yourself.”
Seumus shakes his head a bit and chuckles. “You think if you say I look nice, that you’d betray your Irishman.”[Delwyn] No, if I say anything close to a compliment to you, you’ll take it as meaning more than what it really is. The waitress walks back over with two wine glasses and a bottle of wine. She puts the glasses on the table, opens the bottle, and pours wine into the glasses. She asks them for their order. Once Seumus and Wyn have given her their orders, she walks away.
Delwyn grabs her wine glass and takes a sip.
Seumus grabs his wine glass, takes a sip, and returns the glass to the table. He sits back in his seat and watches Wyn.
Delwyn glances over at Seumus. She could see that Seumus was starting to get a reminiscent look in his eye.
Seumus reaches over and puts hand over her’s.
Delwyn pulls her hand away. “Seumus...”
Seumus moves his hand away from Wyn. “I’m sorry...”
Delwyn says smugly, “Right...I know what you’re trying to do and it’s not going to work. You might as well stop now so I don’t hurt your precious ego.”
Seumus fights off a smile. She was still a spit fire and he always loved that about her. She maybe a hell of a lot older than him, but she still was passionate about life and....other things. He knew that from first hand experience. He raises his hands. “All right, I’ll stop.”
Delwyn could see his lips twitching, trying to fight off a smile. This was a game to him and she was not finding it at all humorous.
Delwyn crosses her arms over her chest. “I have a question for you.”
Seumus grabs his wine glass again. He gives her a nod and then takes a sip of wine.[Delwyn] Do you realize that what you told Liam about how we met is completely wrong? Seumus puts down his wine glass and looks at her. “I wouldn’t have forgotten the first time we met, Wyn.”[Delwyn] I know, that’s why I think there is something wrong with you. The story you told wasn’t right at all. We met after you became Immortal and I never dealt with your father. Seumus frowns. “I think you forgot how we met. I remember it like it was yesterday.”
Delwyn sighs. “The story you told never *happened*, Seumus.”
The waitress comes over and places their food on the table and walks away.
Seumus begins eating as he thinks. He couldn’t be wrong. He loves her. He couldn’t have forgotten how they first met. Or could he?
Delwyn begins eating as she watches Seumus. She was trying to figure out how Seumus could have forgotten how they met.
Seumus drops his fork as a stabbing pain goes through his head. He bites back a curse as his hand goes to his head.
Delwyn stops eating. “Are you ok, Seumus?”
Seumus just gives her a nod as another shooting pain goes through his head. This time he winces, but he really wants to scream.
Delwyn gets up from her and moves over to Seumus. “You aren’t ok. Are you having a headache?”
Seumus clenches his teeth. “It’ll pass.” He puts both hands on his head, wishing the pain would stop.
Delwyn waves her hand and catches the attention of their waitress. “Put the meals on his hotel room tab.” She puts a hand on his shoulder. “Let’s get you up to your room. You aren’t well.”
Seumus slowly rises to his feet. The pain was easing a bit.
Delwyn takes his arm and helps him out of the restaurant and into the elevator. “What floor?”Seumus: Eighth floor, room 826. Delwyn pushes the button before she looks over at Seumus. “Have you had headaches like these before?”Seumus: Yes, I’ve had headaches before, but they’ve gone away. Seumus thinks, “When I take the medication that Horton gave me.”
Delwyn watches the floor numbers go up and finally they reach the eighth floor. She guides Seumus out of the elevator and to his room.
Seumus gives Wyn the key card to open the door.
Delwyn opens the door and pulls Seumus in. “Sit down in the chair by the desk.”
Seumus does as he’s told and takes a seat in the chair as another wave of pain comes over him.
Delwyn switches on the light sitting on the desk. She pushes Seumus’s hair away fro his temple. “By the gods...” she whispers.[Seumus] What? Seumus groans in pain as another shooting pain stabs through his head.
Delwyn puts some space between them. She didn’t bring any herbs with her, so she had no way of helping him. “Go lie down on the bed it may help relieve some of the pain.”
Seumus gets up and almost stumbles as the shooting pain continues. He makes it to the bed and lies down. “They’ve never been this bad, Wyn.”
Delwyn walks over to the bed and sits down next to him. “I don’t have anything to help relieve the pain.” She knows exactly what’s going on now. The bruises are in the same spot Cara’s were. “Close your eyes and relax.”
Seumus closes his eyes, hoping she’ll do something to make the pain stop. He holds his head again, crying out in agony.
Delwyn has to use her last resort. She has to use her so called ‘powers.’ She puts her hands over his and closes her eyes, focusing her energy and channeling it through her and into him. She whispers some ancient Celtic words a few times before she removes her hands.
Seumus feels the pain begin to ease as she whispers. He sighs in relief.
Delwyn gets up, knowing that she wasn’t safe from Seumus while sitting on the bed. She goes and stands over by the window and looks out over the city.
Seumus whispers softly. “Thank you, Wyn.”
Delwyn talks softly. “How long have you been in Horton’s clutches?”
Seumus opens his eyes and looks over to where Wyn is. “What are you talking about?” He felt a bit panicked. How the hell did she know about Horton?
Delwyn turns to look at him. “You *know* what I’m talking about.”
Seumus sits up and walks over to her. “I work for Horton. I haven’t been in his clutches, as you put it.”
Delwyn sidesteps him to keep him at a bit of a distance. “That’s what he wants you to believe.” She looks to her coat seeing it lying on the floor.
Seumus sighs. “Wyn, please. Horton is my employer. That’s it.” [Delwyn] If he’s your employer, then you’re not here for pharmaceutical sales. He must have sent you here to kill someone. Seumus keeps his face emotionless. How did she figure that out?[Delwyn] Who are you here to kill, Seumus? Me? Seumus moves over to her. She was guessing, there was no way she could possibly know.
Delwyn steps away from him again, so she can get closer to her sword. Liam was right. This Seumus wasn’t the Seumus she had known. Horton had reprogrammed him.[Seumus] That’s crazy, Wyn. Why would I want your head? I like it exactly where it is. Seumus quickly closes the gap between them and takes hold of her arms “Don’t be scared of me. I’m not here to hurt you.” He raises a hand and brushes a strand of hair away from her face as he whispers, “I love you, why would I want to hurt you?”
Delwyn wanted to pull away from him and leave the hotel, but she needed to know who he’s after. “Seumus, please, let go of me.”
Seumus doesn’t let go of her, but pulls her closer. “Do you know how much I’ve missed you?” He looks into her eyes.
Delwyn hardens her gaze, to keep from showing her fear. She speaks quietly. “I can’t stay. Liam will....”
Seumus lets her go. His tone of voice and eyes are cold. “Liam O’Dell, will what? Be waiting for you to warm his bed?” He moves away from her. He could hear in his mind over and over again to kill Liam O’Dell. He hated the man. “He doesn’t deserve you.”
Delwyn watches him. All she had to say was Liam’s name and Seumus’s whole demeanor changed. She walks over to him, feeling a bit bolder. “You say that because you’re jealous. Liam is a good man.”
Seumus turns and looks her straight in the eye. Hearing her say Liam’s name was only fueling his rage. “Liam O’Dell doesn’t deserve to be breathing.”
Delwyn can see the rage in him. She can put two and two together. Seumus was here to kill Liam. It must be Horton’s way of revenge for rescuing Cara.
Delwyn puts a hand on his chest. Her tone is icy, “You touch one hair on Liam’s head and you’ll lose yours. Understand, Monro?” It killed her to say those words. She did love Seumus in her own way. He had been a lover yes, but he had been one of her good students. She struggled with believing that Horton did this to such a good man.
Seumus stares at her. “You won’t be able to do it, Wyn. Deep down you still love me.”[Delwyn] Don’t tempt me to prove you wrong. Delwyn moves away from him and walks toward the door and picks up her coat, with the sword still in the lining. She opens the door and walks out not looking back at Seumus. She lets it slam closed behind her as she goes to the elevators.
Seumus turns to watch Wyn leave. He knows she wouldn’t be able to kill him. If she pushed her luck, she maybe the one losing her head. He walks over to the desk and picks up the phone to make a phone call.
Delwyn steps onto the elevator. She was feeling torn. She put the warning out there to Seumus, she prayed to the gods that he wouldn’t push her into fighting him. She would have to make herself numb to be able to follow through, but if it comes down to her losing or keeping her head, then she would do everything in her power to be the one standing in the end. The elevator doors open and she steps out into the lobby. She walks out the front doors and to her car. She gets in and starts it. She drives off knowing she would have to tell Liam what happened and that he was right.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:35:20 GMT -5
KACEY wakes up after a fitful sleep. She has a slight headache which puzzles her almost as much as the dreams she's been plagued with. She reaches for her cell phone and dials a number.
Horton checks the caller ID before answering then presses the button on the speaker phone.
[Horton] Yes, Duggan. What can I do for my star player? have you good news for me?
[KACEY] Sorry, boss. I haven't been able to get Greg out of where he's at and , although I have located Monro, I haven't been able to catch him there. But I'm still working on it. The reason I called is I have a question.
Horton raises an eyebrow.
[Horton] Go on.
[KACEY] I don't know if you can answer this for me or if I need to ask Dr. Sherring...but the pills he gave me to take in case i started getting headaches? They aren't working anymore.
[Horton] You're getting headaches?
[KACEY] Yeah.
[Horton] How long has this been going on?
[KACEY] About a week now. They're getting more frequent and a little worse. should I double the dosage the doctor prescribed? I didn't want to do anything without checking first.
Horton thinks to himself, "Damn. I was hoping we'd have more time with her."
[Horton] Let me check with Sherring first and I'll get back to you. Are you having any other strange symptoms?
[KACEY] Well.....now that you ask...ummmm
[Horton] Go on.
[KACEY] I keep having these weird dreams. They're like my life mixed with someone else's It's like watching a video that has been recorded over something else but the previous recording keeps showing through. Is that what you mean? Or am i just going crazy?
[Horton] Damn!
Horton exclaims.
[Horton] I think you need to come back in, Duggan.
[KACEY] But I haven't finished what i was sent here to do.
[Horton] That's okay. We'll send someone else. You need to come in. I'll send the jet for you. Check your email in a few hours for the flight schedule.
[KACEY] Oh, please, sir....don't bring me in yet. I'll be fine. i want to finish my job.
[Horton] This is not up for discussion Duggan.
[KACEY] Please, let me finish this, sir. Please.
[Horton] You have your orders, Duggan.
Horton hangs up and puts a call into Sherring informing him of what he has just learned. Then he calls his pilot and gives him his orders.
[KACEY] Damn it!
KACEY exclaims as she hangs up.
[KACEY] No way!
KACEY says as she gets out of bed and goes to her backpack on top of the dresser. She takes out a bottle of pills and takes two, washing them down with the remaining contents of a warm soda sitting on her night stand.
[KACEY] I'm not leaving until I'm done. The stupid plane will just have to wait. He'll never trust me to complete an assignment and make my own decisions if I do. I'll show him I can do this.
KACEY proceeds to get dressed. When she is she heads out the door to go look for Seamus Monro.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:35:48 GMT -5
NICK is standing on the terrace outside of the master bedroom. He is leaning on the railing, a beer in one hand and staring out at the ocean.
Amanda walks into the condo and hangs up her coat before kicking her shoes lazily into the corner. Feeling the buzz, she scans the apartment from where she's standing near the door to spot Nick.
NICK feels an Immortal buzz but stays where he is.
Amanda grabs a drink from the fridge before walking toward the bedroom. She sees him from the door and moves across the terrace.
NICK continues to stare out at the ocean...obviously deep in thought.
Amanda stops beside him and gives him a gentle nudge. "What's on your mind?" she queries.
NICK glances at her, puts his arm around her shoulders and looks back out over the ocean. He simply shakes his head.
Amanda The action, though welcome as she leans against him, was not at all satisfactory. "What is it?" she prods lightly.
[NICK] Answer something for me.
NICK says quietly without looking at her.
[NICK] And be honest, okay?
Amanda frowns but nods her head. "Okay."
[NICK] Now that MacLeod is single again...
NICK hesitates for a couple of seconds.
[NICK] Would you....
[NICK] I mean...i know you and he used to be.....
NICK isn't quite sure how to word his question.
[NICK] I mean...do you think....
Amanda gets it anyway and pulls back, she turns to look at him fully instead of sidelong. "Nick, we're engaged. Do you really believe I'd even thought about that?"
[NICK] I know. But he was unavailable when you said yes to me. Now....
NICK shrugs, ashamed of his insecurity.
Amanda looks quite dumbfounded, an expression generally not associated with Amanda; usually nothing could ruffle her feathers. "I can't believe you're even asking this," Amanda retorted, annoyed. She shook her head and stormed back into the bedroom.
NICK turns and watches her go into the bedroom. After a couple of minutes he follows her thinking to himself, "Is she upset because I hit the truth? Or what?" He stands in the middle of the bedroom floor and looks at her.
[NICK] Well...whether you believe it or not...I have asked the question. Am I going to get an answer?
NICK says softly.
Amanda pauses by the door, and shakes her head again but doesn't turn around. "No, Nick. The answer is no," she states coolly.
[NICK] And now you're mad at me.
NICK says and hangs his head.
[Amanda] Of course I'm mad at you.
Amanda responds but the vehemence isn't in her tone despite the comment.
NICK walks over and sits on the edge of the bed. he sets his beer on the night stand and places his elbows on his knees and his head in his hand. He knew he shouldn't have asked but it had been something that had been bothering him for several days now and he decided the only way to get it out of his head was for him to just ask. He really didn't expect her to get this mad, though.
Amanda sighs heavily and turns around. She studies his demeanor for a couple of minutes but refrains from saying anyway for the time being.
[NICK] I'm sorry if I have made you angry. I just.....it's just that....
NICK says into his hands.
[Amanda] You don't trust me?
Amanda suggests.
NICK 's head snaps up and he looks at her.
[NICK] Of course i trust you. This has nothing to do with trust, baby.
Amanda folds her arms. "Then what?" At least there was a sign of relief that that wasn't the issue. He had her concerned for a minute there.
NICK reaches up and takes her arm and gently pulls her down to the bed next to him. He searches her eyes for a few minutes before speaking.
[NICK] It's just that.....I just don't want to lose you and I just thought that since you two were an item long before you met me.....
[Amanda] Just because that is true... doesn't mean I'm going to run into his arms now.
Amanda points out.
NICK pulls her into his arms.
[NICK] I'm sorry for my insecurity. I just know that there's no way i could begin to compete with MacLeod.
Amanda pulls back after a few moments and kisses him softly. "You don't need to compete with anyone," she assures him.
[NICK] So.....you never would go running back to him if we had a problem? Say....we got into a big argument or something?
Amanda hesitates, had that happened, she would probably have spoken to CJ. But that wasn't an option anymore.
[Amanda] I don't know. I might talk to someone.
[NICK] I'm talking about talk....
NICK shakes his head.
[NICK] Just forget i asked. I shouldn't have. I'm sorry.
[Amanda] Forget it? So this conversation can come up in a few weeks time, if we do argue about something?
[NICK] No. I promise I'll never bring it up again. It's just my stupid insecurities where you're concerned. I'm sorry. Please forgive me.
Amanda closes her eyes and takes in a calming breath. "You don't have to be insecure."
[NICK] As beautiful as you are? I'd be a fool to not be.
Amanda smiles faintly. "I promise you don't have to worry," she states.
[NICK] Then.....I mean i realize with everything going on right now.....I mean....we wouldn't have to make it public until later....but....can we set a date, at least?
Amanda inclines her head to the side to scrutinize him. Sure she had thought about setting a date, who wouldn't when they were engaged? But there was a pang at the thought of having to find a different maid of honor
NICK looks into her eyes and...as if reading her mind...says, "It can wait. I know you wanted CJ to be there. Damn. I'm just messing up all over the place, aren't I?"
Amanda shakes her head quickly. "No, it's fine, really," she answers. It had to be brought up eventually.
NICK traces her jawline with his finger tips.
[NICK] You really are beautiful.
NICK says softly.
[NICK] And you know that CJ would want you to be happy. To go on living, right?
Amanda glances down, her lips pursed as she nods. "Yeah... I know."
[NICK] Then.....will you at least think about it?
NICK asks placing his fingers under her chin and raising it up so she's looking at him.
[NICK] That's all I ask.
Amanda nods with a surety. "I will." She pauses briefly, thoughtfully. "So how about May?"
NICK looks at her surprised.
[NICK] Really? This coming up May? Are you sure, babe?
[Amanda] I think so.
[NICK] Any particular date?
NICK asks still shocked that she has chosen a time so close.
Amanda Okay, so she was being impulsive. "The 26th?" she suggests, as if picking the date from a hat.
NICK smiles and lays the palm of his hand against her cheek.
[NICK] If that's what you want.
NICK leans closer and places a soft kiss on her lips.
Amanda smiles genuinely for the first time since getting back. "I am," she says quietly against his mouth.
NICK gently lays her back on the bed and proceeds to make passionate love to her.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:39:52 GMT -5
KACEY rides her Harley past the park. When she gets to the baseball field she notices several groups of little leaguers utilizing three of the four baseball diamonds. She pulls into the parking lot and parks her bike, gets off, removes her helmet and locks it to her bike. She walks up to the bleachers at the nearest diamond and stands behind the backstop watching the group of 8 to 12 year old children. One girl in particular grabs her interest. She watches her come up to bat. Unfortunately the little girl strikes out. Kacey stays until it's time for the girl to get up again. This time Kacey walks through the gate and glances at the woman who appears to be the coach. "May I?" she asks and the woman shrugs and nods. Kacey walks up behind the little girl and bends over, gently placing her hands over the girl's.
[KACEY] If you choke up on the bat a little....
KACEY says softly and slides the girl's hands up on the bat.
[KACEY] And put this foot back here a little more....
KACEY taps the inside of Merrin's back foot so that she moves it back a little bit.
[KACEY] And dig this one in so that you're standing more on the ball of it than the whole foot....
KACEY taps the inside of the girl's forward foot with her toe.
[KACEY] And put your weight on you back leg....I'll bet you do better.
KACEY lets go and steps back, walking backward to the spot she was standing in behind the backstop.
Merrin pauses after the instruction, making to turn around and looked at the woman that has given her the impromptu lesson. But there isn't time just then and she quickly moves back into the position that Kacey has shown her. This time she doesn't strike out.
Merrin ran as fast as her little legs could carry her, a beaming smile on her face. The ball still not caught, she carries onto second.
KACEY cheers, whistles and claps as the girl hits a home run.
[KACEY] Yeah! Alright!
Merrin , panting at the run, still manages to jump up and down, punching her hands in the air in victory.
KACEY watches the girl run the bases. She's still cheering as the girl crosses home plate and her team members run up and hug her.
[Merrin] I did it!
Merrin shouts triumphantly.
Merrin looks passed her team to look for the woman that had helped her.
[KACEY] Yes you did, slugger.
KACEY says although she knows she can't be heard over the children's yelling.
KACEY sees the girl looking at her and gives her a thumbs up.
The children break away to give her some room, and Merrin walks through them to move toward the woman. She's still smiling, but she squints as if confused at seeing something.
KACEY watches as the girl starts her way.
[KACEY] Just remember that stance, kiddo. It'll work every time
KACEY says smiling.
KACEY , feeling good with herself, turns and heads for her bike.
Merrin pauses as she regains control of her mouth. "Wait!" she calls out.
KACEY unlocks her helmet and turns to look at the girl who has called to her.
KACEY climbs onto her Harley and sits looking at the girl.
Merrin runs toward her when she sees Kacey has stopped. Once in front of her, she studies the woman with a child-like look of disbelief.
KACEY looks down at the girl. She feels a strange tug at her heart although she doesn't know why.
[KACEY] What?
KACEY asks curiously.
KACEY wonders why the little girl is staring at her like she is.
Merrin 's face scrunches up in confusion that the woman doesn't seem to show any recognition of her and she feels an acute sense of disappointment. "C-CJ?" she asks hopefully, her voice quiet.
[KACEY] 'scuse me?
Merrin hangs her head for a moment before looking back up at the woman. "You look like CJ."
[KACEY] Who's CJ?
KACEY asks curiously.
[Merrin] My friend.
Merrin whispers sadly. "She died."
[KACEY] Oh. Bummer. Sorry to hear that kid. But my name's Kacey. What's yours?
KACEY suddenly realizes that the girl is a pre-Immortal.
[Merrin] Merrin.
Merrin introduces.
[KACEY] Nice to meet you Merrin. Well....you just remember that stance. Okay?
Merrin holds out her hand in a proper introduction and gives a firm nod. "I will," she confirms in a quiet tone. She obviously can't get over meeting a lookalike.
KACEY leans over her bike and shakes Merrin's hand. She winks at her, puts on her helmet, kick starts her bike and waves to Merrin as she backs out of the parking spot.
KACEY has to wait for an incoming vehicle to clear the entrance of the parking lot before she can exit.
Amanda pulls into the lot and sees Merrin waiting for her by the side of the road. The other kids were already being taken home, everyone else being behind the metal fence. She gets out of the car.
KACEY passes the car and leaves the parking lot with a final look over her shoulder at the little girl.
Merrin squirms as she sees Amanda coming toward her, and she fiddles with the cap in her hands. "Sorry," she apologizes, knowing she was supposed to wait inside. "I saw someone that looked like CJ," she quickly added.
The admission stops Amanda in her tracks and she looks around as if expecting to see this woman. She crouches in front of Merrin, "Where did she go?" Okay, so a part of her wished it wasn't just a lookalike that Merrin had seen.
KACEY heads away from the park and toward the downtown area to stake out Seamus' hotel.
Merrin pointed in the direction Kacey and the bike had gone, before walking to the car. She paused in opening the door, a smile back on her face. "I hit a home run!"
Amanda smiles as she gets back into the driver's seat. "Hey, well done," she congratulates. She makes sure Merrin has her seatbelt on and starts the car. "We're taking the long route home," she explains and drives in the direction of the bike.
KACEY drives past Seamus' hotel and goes around the block, pulling into an alley. She pulls to the end of the alley and stops her bike where she can see the entrance to the hotel. She removes her helmet and sets it on the gas tank between her legs. She lights a cigarette while she waits.
Amanda isn't sure exactly what's possessing her to follow some lady she has never met before. Maybe it's the thought of seeing, though not CJ herself, someone that is enough like her, alive and well, to keep the illusion that her best friend is still alive. Absently she thinks a shrink would have a field day with this.
KACEY finishes her cigarette and tosses the butt down. She places her elbow on her helmet and rests her chin on her hand as she watches the entrance to the hotel.
Amanda parks up the car, Merrin is looking out at all the places, trying to catch a glimpse of the mysterious woman.
KACEY , bored, lights another cigarette.
Amanda Amanda gets out of the car as Merrin jumps out of her side.
Merrin looks around and spots the ice cream parlor a short distance away. "Can I get a chocolate cone?" she asks. The parlor is a couple of buildings down from Seamus'.
KACEY feels the buzz of another Immortal and looks first at the entrance of the hotel. Not seeing Monro anywhere she looks around at the other pedestrians.
Amanda takes Merrin's hand as she hold it out, "I don't see why not," she responds. So she wasn't one of the people to refuse treats before dinner, then. Merrin just loved that. They cross the street toward the parlor
KACEY notices the little girl from the baseball field crossing the street and holding the hand of a woman with short dark hair. She watches the woman closely.
Merrin skips up to the door and pushes it open before striding purposefully to the counter to look at all the other flavors
Amanda pauses before reaching for the door and scans the area after feeling the presence of another Immortal.
KACEY gets a strange feeling of familiarity when the woman turns around. By seeing her scan the area she also realizes who the Immortal is she felt. She watches the woman trying to figure out why she seems so familiar but she can't figure it out.
Amanda Seeing as the other Immortal isn't about to reveal him or herself, Amanda steps inside the parlor She would prefer a fight did not break out, obviously, with Merrin so close.
KACEY decides that she's tired of waiting for Monro to show up and tosses her cigarette butt down and slips her helmet back on. She kick starts her motorcycle and slowly emerges from the alley and turns into the traffic and drives by the ice cream parlor. She looks through the window as she drives by at the woman and little girl.
KACEY speeds up once she has gotten past the parlor and heads for her houseboat.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:40:30 GMT -5
KACEY is in a batting cage hitting every pitch that the machine throws at her.
D.Swift drives up in his Porsche, he exits and puts his STL hat on, pulling his coat off and walking towards the pitching cages near the edge of the batting cage Kacey is using. He feels the buzz and locks in on the hitter. He gives a little smirk and walks in the pitch cage, purchasing a ball bucket
KACEY stops when the machine runs out of balls. She walks up to the dial and sets it at a higher level of difficulty and resumes her batting stance.
KACEY feels an immortal buzz but ignores it.
D.Swift looks over to watch her take a few swings before starting his pitch practice. He puts extra money into the machine, to get radar reads for when he starts. He'll do some hitting himself after pitching. After talking with this woman the other day, he may try to get onto a team again.
KACEY , once again, power hits every pitch the machine throws at her.
D.Swift chuckles as he shakes his head, "You should have them turn up the speed." he calls over, "And try closing your stance a little bit. You can pull the ball better." he then picks up a ball and falls into a stretch. He sighs once and then winds up, throwing a cutter at the fake catcher. The radar reads 87, "Dammit...at least it was a strike."
KACEY ignores him and hits the last few balls "out of the park". She lifts her batting helmet and wipes the sweat from her forehead. She watches Swift for a couple of pitches and then begins to collect her things, getting ready to leave.
D.Swift throws another pitch. A two seamer, grunting as he throws it. It's just outside, but the radar reads 91, "There it is..." he mutters to himself. He notices her leaving, "Leaving so soon? And here I thought you liked me."
KACEY turns and faces Swift.
[KACEY] I did until I found out you are friends with MacLeod.
KACEY says in almost a snarl.
D.Swift gives a lopsided grin. "That, and I kind of like throwing at live targets..." his face turns down, "I know him a bit, sure. What'd he do to you?" he winds up and throws a screwball at the bottom left corner, 68MPH.
KACEY sticks her bat in her duffel bag along with her helmet and cap and fluffs her short hair with her fingers.
D.Swift looks over and sees she's the silent type. Oh goodie. His favorite. "I tell you what. Get out there. I throw a strike and you miss it. Go along, I won't talk to you again. But you whiff...you tell me what your beef is with tall dark and Scottish"
KACEY walks over to the bench where a long leather case that resembles a pool stick case lies. As she slings it over her shoulder she says in a low voice that only he can hear, "He killed my husband...so i killed his wife. I don't think he would like you being friends with me anymore than I can associate with a friend of his."
KACEY says matter of factly and heads for the cage gate.
D.Swift doesn't actually believe that. Of course, he has his own suspicions. "He...killed your husband? In cold blood? Did you see it happen?" Damn, he would have enjoyed throwing at a live target.
[KACEY] I was there when he challenged my husband and my husband didn't come home. You do the math.
D.Swift quirks a brow, "Yeah, that adds up pretty clearly. But...given his annoying boy scout nature...to a retarded fault, I have trouble seeing him going after someone without a reason. It goes against his core values. Are you sure the man is dead?"
[KACEY] I think a headless body in a closed casket is pretty self explanatory.
[KACEY] But don't worry. I'm not after your buddy. I got my revenge when i took his precious wife's head. Blood for blood. It's an Irish tradition.
D.Swift sighs, "I...see. What was his name? And was there some kind of bad blood? I mean you seem like a good lass, your husband would have been a good man...it's hard to imagine MacLeod randomly killing a good man. No offense." He really needs to get to Joe and have that glass he had saved tested
D.Swift shrugs, "No interference, Remember? MacLeod has to fight his own battles with others of our kind."
[KACEY] His name was Charles O'Connell.
D.Swift nods, "I'm sorry about your loss. I try to stay out of other immortals battles." Well, that's technically true. If he actually believed she killed mac's wife...he'd be really pissed, "Sorry we can't be friends. I wouldn't advertise that you killed her..."
[KACEY] I'm not ashamed of it. And I'm sure he would know who i was once he thought about it. After all....he has access to the Watcher file on it.
KACEY smirks.
[KACEY] Yeah. I know all about Watchers and who Joe Dawson is.
[KACEY] I do my homework....and I do it well.
KACEY 's eyes are cold as ice.
D.Swift shakes his head, not acting surprised about that revelation. If she is who he thinks, her "master" would have told her that. "It's not because you're ashamed. It's because...well...then the cycle will continue. It will be blood for blood for the end of time. It has to end."
[KACEY] I'm right here. Under his nose. if he wants a piece of me...he can bring it on. All i gotta say is...he better pack a lunch.
KACEY reaches for the gate latch.
D.Swift shrugs, "Not my business. I'm just sorry that two people died that maybe didn't deserve it." he lies. If Mac did kill this husband, he probably deserved it. "I just hope you're not looking for trouble. I like you. And Mac has lots of friends. Even if you beat him, they'd all come calling. And it would just be needless death after needless death." he sighs, "You take care. Watch your head. It's too bad we can't be friends."
[KACEY] Yeah. I'm sure you're just all broken up about it.
D.Swift shakes his head, "Believe what you want. I value good people, and I'm a good judge of character. It's not my choice that we can't be friends." he says matter of factly, "It's you and MacLeod's."
KACEY smirks as she opens the gate and walks to the concession window where she pays for her overtime. while she waits for the young kid behind the counter to figure up her charges she watches Swift out of the corner of her eye.
D.Swift starts back to pitching. Grim determination on his face. He acts like he's checking runners, but he's actually watching her. His pitches start quickly reaching old form. That's what annoyance does. 91...92...93MPH. Four seamer is coming back.
KACEY Just as the kid behind the counter slides her tab across the counter to her as she gets a sharp pain in her head and her hand goes to the spot of origin and she winces.
KACEY takes the paper from the kid and glances at it. She digs in her jeans pocket and brings out a few bills, which she hands to the kid. As she waits for her change she leans heavily against the counter.
D.Swift is looking over when this happens. o0(Really need to get to Joe's. After she leaves...got 20 pitches left anyway). He winds up and starts working on his screwball. The breaks get bigger and bigger. Finally hits a full 10-6.
KACEY takes her change and starts to walk away but she turns back and walks purposefully back to Swift's cage.
[KACEY] Oh....and about that little ploy to get my DNA sample from my drink glass the other night?
KACEY snickers.
[KACEY] You might as well forget it. I broke into Dawson's office that night and confiscated the glass from his desk drawer.
KACEY smirks again as she turns back toward the exit of the cages.
D.Swift keeps pitching, now working on his cutter. He's at 91, trying to hit a career high of 92 with a 1-6 break. He barely looks over his shoulder, "I'm not a doctor or a forensics expert. I'm not big on collecting DNA."
[KACEY] Sorry for your luck, Swift.
KACEY chuckles as she walks away.
D.Swift laughs as he throws a cutter at 92, "Luck? Did you see that pitch?" he just shakes his head. Now why would she steal it if she, or someone else didn't have something to hide? It's not like Dawson would advertise keeping it, and she certainly doesn't have xray vision.
KACEY gets out to the parking lot and stows her gear on the back of her bike. She unlocks her helmet from the bike and slips it on but not before rubbing the side of her head one last time.
KACEY snaps the strap on her helmet, digs the key out of her jeans pocket and climbs onto the Harley. She gives it one good kick and its engine rumbles to life.
KACEY sits on the bike and revs it a couple of times. She can still see Swift from where she's parked. She watches him for a couple of minutes while she pretends to adjust the gas flow on the side of the engine.
D.Swift finishes off his basket with splitters. Waiting for her to drive away for a good period of time. He's having trouble getting the splitter back to form.
KACEY backs her bike out of the parking slot and toes it into first gear. She raises her hand to the top of her helmet and "doffs an imaginary hat" in Swifts direction then speeds out of the parking lot.
D.Swift shakes his head as he finishes off his last splitter. He walks over and picks all the balls up, rather nice of him, to take it to the ball boy and pay. He pays and gathers his coat up, heading into his Porsche to head to bitch at a certain bartender.
KACEY heads for her houseboat. Yeah...it would have been nice to make a friend but the farther she stays from MacLeod until she's ready for him....the better off they both will be. She thinks about Charles....but her memories of him are beginning to fade and once again she feels like she is watching a video recorded over something else and the original recording keeps showing through. It causes her head to throb even harder and she loses her concentration on the rush hour traffic. A truck swerves in front of her and she ends up having to lay the bike down in the street to keep from hitting the truck. As she slides about 50 feet, tearing up her jeans and arm only one picture comes to her mind.....MacLeod kissing a woman dressed in a wedding gown and at closer look....it's her.
D.Swift gets up and leaves, headed in the opposite direction from Kacey. He heads for Joe's bar.
KACEY manages to scrape herself off the street and right her bike which only has a few scratches and get back on it and ride away.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:41:13 GMT -5
******The parts of Duncan & Connor MacLeod are temporarily being understudied******
****In Lillith's secret lab in the basement of her home**** MAC stands just inside the door to Lillith's lab and leans against the wall trying to stay out of the way. [Greg] I didn't like being a guinea pig the first time from what I can remember. LIAM walks through the door with Gregor . [LIAM] You're among friends this time. LIAM says as he closes the door behind them.
Lillith is moving about at a rather fast pace setting up IV and drip lines and preparing the computer to start the TV screen's imaging process.”Everything is ready, just get him in that chair and I'll set up the Ivs.”
Greg looks at MacLeod "Don't worry, you won't have to hold my hand Mac. [LIAM] Lillith? This is Greg....an old friend of Duncan's. MAC gives Greg a half smile.
Lillith glances at Gregor and offered a nod. “Nice to meet you. It wont hurt a bit so you have nothing to worry about Mr. Gregor.” [MAC] I hadn't intended to. You're a big boy now. Or so you have said. [Greg] Gee thanks teach. [Lillith] In there chair in there now, go on hurry up, lets get this started. Lillith gestures to the chair in the small sectioned space in the corner.
Greg sits in the chair. [LIAM] So what's the plan of attack? LIAM asks Lillith
Lillith is beside him in a moment with the IV. “ Hope you aren't afraid of needles Greg, now just a little pinch,” she says as she runs the IV into his arm as she answers Liam's question. [Greg] I'm stuck enough people, just not used to being stuck myself. [Lillith] Drug, hypnosis and video imaging along with audio. Sort of a mental bombardment. MAC walks slowly to Greg and says, "look at it this way...at least you don't have to endure torture testing first with us."
Lillith offers a wink to Greg as she is kneeling next to his chair hooking the drip to the IV. “I can hurt you if you want though” [Greg] Bombard away, it can't be any worse then the headaches. By the way Highlander, that was funny, very funny. Lillith offers almost teasingly
MAC hides a shudder as he thinks about the torture Cara must have gone through. [MAC] It wasn't suppose to be. MAC squats down next to Greg and looks up at him. [MAC] Gregor....i do have a favor to ask of you. [Greg] Name it, MacLeod, it's not like you haven't done enough for me. MAC removes a photograph of Cara from his shirt pocket and hands it to Greg
Greg takes photograph. [MAC] Once you start remembering what happened to you....I would like to know if you remember seeing her anywhere in the building you were in. [MAC] It's very important to me, Gregor. Very important [Greg] I'll do my best, but I can't guarantee anything Mac. [MAC] Does she look at all familiar? Greg grabs head. "Argh!"
LIAM walks up behind Mac and places his hand gently on his son-in-law's shoulder. [LIAM] Come on, Duncan. let Lillith do her work. LIAM says softly.
MAC drops his head for a couple of seconds then nods in agreement and slowly stands back up and moves back to his spot against the wall with a sigh.
Lillith stands with a sigh. “Just keep your eyes on the screen Greg. This will all be over soon and the headaches will be gone. You'll be your old self again.” [LIAM] Give Lillith's treatment time to work. You'll get your answers soon enough, son. LIAM says quietly to Duncan.
MAC only closes his eyes and nods.
Lillith moves then to the computer keyboard and waits for Duncan and Liam to leave Greg alone before starting the process. The IV drip feeds the drug into Greg's arm, making him feel relaxed, almost sleepy, his arms and legs would feel heavy. Then the screen starts, Lillith's soothing voice comes over the little speakers and the images on the screen are those of watcher photos and records on Greg, Her voice continues delving deep into his mind working slowly to rid him of all Horton's influence and restore his own life. [LIAM] Why don't we take a walk and get out of her way for a while? LIAM says and places his hand on Duncan's shoulder trying to steer him toward the door.
MAC opens his eyes and looks at Greg then at Lillith He wants to stay but he knows that waiting and watching will only make him more anxious. He slowly turns and follows Liam out of the lab.
Greg head moves back and forth in a daze. "Don't touch me you ugly son of a bitch!"
Lillith waits a bit before moving from her computer to the locked medicine cabinet and withdrawing a vial and readies another drug to inject into the port between Greg's drip and IV, this drug would aid in ridding him of any blood clots or brain infarctions [Greg] Don't touch her! [Greg] Leave her alone! Lillith sets a comforting hand on Greg's arm then hearing his words quickly grabs her digital voice recorder and begins recording what he said. [Greg] Get that needle away from me! [Greg] MacLeod is my teacher and my friend, I won't kill him! [Greg] AHHH! MAC hears Greg's comment just before the door closes and whirls back around, going back into the lab. he walks over to Greg and squats down next to him and listens intently. [Greg] Kill MacLeod...Kill MacLeod! NOOOOO!!!!!!!! LIAM stands outside the lab and shakes his head. He is running out of ideas on how to help his son in law through this nightmare.
Lillith makes a gesture for Duncan to remain still and silent. [Greg] I'm a doctor, I'm getting married, LEAVE ME ALONE!! Greg twists and contorts in the chair
Connor walks up to the front door of Lillith's house and rings the doorbell.
LIAM sticks his head into the lab and says to Lillith, "You want me to get that for you?"
Lillith hands the digital voice recorder to Duncan to hold and grabs a hypodermic needle with sedative from her pocket giving Greg a shot in the arm.
Lillith blinks looking at Duncan. “He'll be aright. stay with him, I will be back in a moment.”
MAC nods not taking his eyes off of Greg
Greg relaxes as the sedative takes effect.
Lillith exits and moves up the stairs and into the kitchen moving swiftly to answer the door. “One Moment! I'm on my way!”
Lillith unlatches the door and opens it staring out at the visitor. ”C...Conner..?”
LIAM follows Lillith just in case. [*Connor] Lillith? Lillith a flood of memories washes through her mind as she stares mutely at Connor for a moment but then she blinks and steps aside. “Please. come in....”
Connor says surprised. he notices Liam standing not far behind her so he knows he's at the right house. [*Connor] You're the miracle worker who is going to undo what Horton has done to these people? Greg mumbles. "Cara are you alright..Cara....
Lillith nods mutely
Connor asks as he steps across the threshold into the house.
Lillith closes the door behind him and glances at Liam, then gestures for them both to proceed to the kitchen and down into the lab.
MAC stiffens. He starts to place his hand on Greg's arm...to encourage him to say more...but he realizes that his hand is shaking so he refrains.
Connor looks up at Liam and extends his hand. [*Connor] Good to see you again, O'Dell. Is Duncan with you? LIAM takes Connor's hand and shakes it as he nods. [LIAM] Yes he is. Lillith moves to the kitchen opening the hidden door and moving down to continue her work. “Everything alright Duncan?” she whispers as she moves back to Greg's side. [*Connor] How's he doing? [LIAM] See for yourself. LIAM says and leads Connor down to the lab. [MAC] He saw her....he saw her alive. MAC says shakily without taking his eyes from Greg
Connor walks into the lab.
Lillith offers a encouraging smile to Duncan. “I told you I did not think she was dead.” [Greg] I'll kill you for this you animal. MAC feels a new Immortal buzz and glances over his shoulder. He stands up when he sees that it's Connor and walks over to him.
Lillith then looks up to Liam and Connor before staring back at Greg when he made his outburst.
Connor walks up to Duncan and gives him a brotherly hug. [*Connor] How are you? Greg is still incoherent.
Connor then he realizes that Duncan is shaking and wishes he hadn't asked that question.
Lillith leans close to Greg's ear and whispers softly. “Be calm, all is well, you are safe, you are safe, your friends are here with you. Hang on just a little longer... Remember Cara, what happened to her?” MAC hugs Connor back and then quickly lets go. He returns his attention to Greg [MAC] I'm fine. MAC mutters softly. [Greg] They hurt her, Horton hurt her [*Connor] Right. Connor says sarcastically. [Greg] They gave her drugs...like they gave me. [Lillith] Where did they send her? what is her name now? what is her mission? [Greg] I don't know, they took her away before I could find out. MAC steps closer to Greg so he can hear every word he's saying. he has to shove his hand in his jeans pockets to hide their shaking and his eyes burn from fighting the tears.
Lillith holds the voice recorder close to Greg to record his every word “Where did they send her Greg?” [Greg] They beat me when I tried to talk to her. [Lillith] What was the last thing she said to you? Remember... [Greg] Tell Duncan, I'm alive...tell him to forgive me for anything they make me do.. [Lillith] What mission did they giver her? What new identity? [Greg] She's a weapon, they were programming her to kill someone, that's all I remember.. Lillith growls softly. “Think harder Greg!”
Greg lunges at Lilith, his hands going for her neck. [Greg] MACLEOD!!!! Lillith, squatting in front of him really doesn't have anywhere to go. all she can do is grab his wrists and try and loosen his grip on her throat.
Greg grabs his head [Greg] She's going to kill MacLeod Lillith gasps for air when she is releases and moves immediately to start speaking hoarse soothing words to him. “Calm calm you are safe... be calm Greg”
Greg slumps down in chair
Lillith sits him up and soothingly strokes his face and hair. “Its alright, you are safe, Duncan is here with you, all your friends are. be calm...”
Greg groans
Lillith gives him a pet on the shoulder then whispered. “Watch the screen, relax.”
Greg opens eyes and tries to focus on the screen.
Lillith moves back to her computer glancing over at Liam and Conner, on hand rubbing her bruised throat as she turns and sits accessing the second file and starts it to play on Greg's TV.
Lillith with a sigh she leans back in her chair and lets her eyes close for a moment. [LIAM] Are you alright? LIAM asks her.
Images flash rapidly on the screen as Greg watches, almost instantly all the false memories in his mind will be destroyed and he should only have true memories. the aching in his head should stop as well.
MAC stands transfixed on Greg
Lillith doesn't open her eyes. Just nods, “Yeah, I'm fine.”
Lillith takes a slow breath and stands after a moment.
Connor walks over to Duncan and stands next to him watching him carefully.
Lillith moves to Greg and kneels in front of him once more and stares him in the eyes. “Do you remember your real life?” [Greg] I'm supposed to be getting married...soon. Lillith nods in answer to Liam's question then speaks to Greg again. “Thats right. How does your head feel?” [Greg] The pain is going away. Lillith stands and nods. “Good. Duncan, Liam.. Bring him upstairs he needs to rest and would probably like something to drink..”
Lillith turns and moves to the stairs and up glancing at the four men for a moment before stepping up into the kitchen leaving them to talk amongst themselves for a few minutes while she make tea.
MAC backs away from Greg as if he has some sort of contagious disease.
LIAM walks over to Greg glad to have something to do besides twiddling his thumbs. [Greg] Sorry to be the bearer of bad news Mac. Lillith sets the table with 5 tea cups, a sugar bowl and cream and sits waiting for the men to come up and sit and discuss the next course of action.
Connor slips his arm under one of Greg's arm pits.
LIAM does the same as Connor and together they help Greg out of the chair. [LIAM] Get your sea legs back, lad. then we'll help you upstairs so you can get some rest. Greg knees buckle a little. "Thanks."
MAC says nothing. he has backed up against the wall and is staring at the chair that is now empty but his mind is not in the lab. he is remembering the nightmare he had a couple of nights ago.
[*Connor] Think you can walk?
Connor asks Greg
Greg takes a few steps. "Yeah, I think so."
LIAM starts to slowly make head for the lab door supporting Greg on one side.
Connor supports him on the other. As they go through the door he glances back at Duncan, concerned.
[LIAM] Where are we taking him, Lillith?
Lillith turns to look at them. “On the sofa in the living room, he'll be comfortable there”
MAC remains in the lab alone. he slides down the wall until he is sitting on the floor. He brings his knees up to his chest and wraps his arms around them....basically hugging them to try and stop shaking. All he can see is the glint of Cara's blade getting closer and closer to his neck as he lay helpless to stop her.
LIAM nods and leads what he hopes is the way.
Connor helps Liam settle Greg on the sofa then turns around and heads back downstairs to see why Duncan hasn't joined them.
Lillith, not seeing Duncan stands and moves back to the lab and seeing him there moves to sit beside him on the floor. “Want something to help you relax Duncan?”
[LIAM] Can I get you anything, Greg?
[Greg] Just something to drink, thanks.
MAC shakes his head.
[MAC] No. I'm fine. Just want to be alone for awhile...if that's okay?
LIAM nods and goes into the kitchen. he sees the tea set up and pours Greg a cup of tea. He takes it back to him.
Lillith nods as she stands and moves to the stairs glancing back at Duncan. “We'll find her you know, you'll have her back in your arms soon.”
[LIAM] I didn't know what you take in your tea. I'll bring it back out if you tell me.
[Greg] Thanks, no, this is fine. I've been a real pain in the ass haven't I?
MAC, knowing Lillith didn't understand why he was upset he simply nods and lays his forehead on his knees.
LIAM sits on the sofa next to Greg.
[LIAM] No, laddie. It's not you that is the pain in the ass...it's that Horton and his team of mad scientists.
Connor steps into the lab and looks at Lillith and Duncan. He can feel his clansman's tension from where he is standing. He walks up and holds out his hand to Lillith.
[Greg] She's alive Liam and she's coming for MacLeod
[*Connor] Come on....lets give Duncan some space.
Connor turns to Duncan and says, "we'll be upstairs, brother, when you feel like joining us.”
MAC nods without raising his head.
[LIAM] Isn't that what you were supposed to do?
LIAM asks Greg
Connor pulls Lillith to her feet and without letting go of her hand leads her back upstairs.
Lillith takes Connor's hand and follows him out. “He'll be alright I think”
[*Connor] So how did you get mixed up in all of this?
[Greg] I think maybe, I was just a test subject.
Connor asks Lillith.
[LIAM] Or maybe you're still a little confused and are mixing things up.
Lillith shrugs, pulling the basement door closed as they move into the kitchen. “Just lucky I guess”
MAC waits until he is sure he is alone and quietly sobs into his knees.
[*Connor] How long have you been in Seacouver?
Connor asks as he sits at the table.
[Greg] Could be, but I think it's clear that Horton wants Mac dead.
[Lillith] Not long.
Lillith answers sitting across from him.
[LIAM] Of course he does. Along with every other Immortal that poses a threat to his existence Do you remember what Horton looked like?
[*Connor] You wouldn't happen to have anything stronger than tea would you?
[Greg] Nasty looking, with scars
Lillith smiles at him and stands moving to a cabinet and pulling a bottle of Brandy out.
[LIAM] MacLeod gave him those scars. That would motivate him to want him dead.
[Lillith] hows this?
[*Connor] Well....it's not scotch but it'll do.
Connor smiles politely.
Lillith shakes her head. “You'll have ta earn tha scotch Connor,” she teases in a Scottish accent offering a wink
Connor gives her his best innocent boyish grin.
Lillith gives him a sarcastic look. “You really think you can out drink me this time Connor? You lost last time, remember?” she says referring to when they had met on the Rosemary
Connor sits back in his chair and closes his eyes and leans his head back...a smile on his face as he remembers the incident she is speaking of.
***Flashback***
Lillith had been traveling with her friend Jack MacGregor for a year already on his ship when they encountered The Rosemary It wasn't until white flags were run up that Lillith had recognized Connor. She too remembered. She had dressed much like a pirate herself while out on the seas, it was her favorite memory, of course drinking a Scotsman under the table was something not done all too often. She had been sitting on the deck or the Rosemary taking a rest from the dancing and merriment the two ships were having. She glanced over to Connor with a sly grin. “I bet I can drink you under the table Connor,” she challenged in front of the crew.” It had taken a few hours of drinking, Scotch, Brandy, Whiskey, anything vile enough to make someone drunk, but in the end It was Connor who toppled over first in a drunken stupor. Lillith wasn't too far behind, but she had won and that was enough to giver her something to taunt Connor with if ever they met again. and so it seemed fate had crossed their paths once more.
***Present Day***
Lillith blinks pushing away the memory.
Greg falls asleep
LIAM gets up and walks over to one of Lillith's book cases and peruses the titles of its contents.
[Lillith] So you think you can out drink me now Connor?
Connor looks at her and grins.
[*Connor] Now? Probably not. But when all this is over....I do think i could give you a run for your money.
Connor takes a big sip of his brandy. He halfway glances over his shoulder in the direction of the basement door.
[*Connor] So....since I don't see any clippers docked in your yard....I'm guessing you aren't pirating these days.
Connor says teasingly.
[Lillith] oh no I have a much worse profession now Connor
[Lillith] something truly terrifying
[Lillith] I'm a history teacher.
[*Connor] who's history?
[Lillith] just history Connor, at the college
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:41:56 GMT -5
****It is late afternoon on April 3, 2006**** JOE walks out of his office after Mike informs him that he needs to come out and take care of his friend, MacLeod. He looks around at the basically empty bar and doesn't see Mac. Mike points to the upstairs tables and then Joe sees his friend sitting in the shadows upstairs
MAC has spent the past several hours in the shadows of Joe's upstairs and is now working on his second bottle of Scotch. No matter how much he drinks he can't seem to anesthetize himself. He is sitting at a small table in a darkened corner with his feet on another chair.
MAC has forgone drinking from a glass and is now drinking straight from the bottle.
JOE quickly writes down a telephone number on a bar napkin and hands it to Mike and tells him to call it and tell the person who answers it to come down here and take MacLeod home. He'd do it himself but he knows that Mike is due to leave after he makes the phone call and he'll be the only 1 here.
JOE pours a large mug of coffee from the bar and takes it upstairs. He sets it on the table in front of Mac and sits in a chair next to him. He picks up the bottle of scotch and puts the cap back on it and sets it on the table behind them.
JOE slides the coffee toward MacLeod.
MAC grabs for the bottle but is too slow. He watches it disappear behind his back. He looks at the cup of coffee Joe has slid toward him and shakes his head. "Huh-uh. But I'll take that bottle back," he says...his speech seriously slurred. [JOE] I think you've had enough. JOE says softly.[MAC] Don't worry, Joe. I'm not going to stiff you. I'm paying for it. [JOE] I'm sure you will in the morning. JOE says under his breath.[JOE] Paying or not....I have the right to put a halt to your alcohol consumption for the night. [MAC] Why? MAC says and sounds like he's pouting.[JOE] Legally? So you don't leave here so drunk that you go out there and run over someone. Morally? Because you're my friend and I care what happens to you. [MAC] Fuck morality. It's highly overrated MAC slurs[JOE] Yeah...well....just the fact that you are using profanity that you don't usually use tells me that you have had enough booze. So you are officially cut off for tonight. MAC waves his hand at Joe.[MAC] Ahhh...what the fuck do you know? MAC grumbles.
JOE places his hand on Mac's shoulder.[JOE] I know that drinking yourself into a stupor isn't the answer. [MAC] I don't remember asking anyone a question. MAC says thinking he's being funny but it comes out more sarcastic than funny.[JOE] Regardless..... JOE slides the cup of coffee closer.[JOE] Do me a favor and drink this. MAC glares at him as he slurs, "go to hell."
JOE takes a deep breath reminding himself that his friend is very drunk and his words mean nothing. "He probably won't even remember tonight when he wakes up in the morning," he thinks to himself.[JOE] I'll go if you drink the coffee. [MAC] Fine. MAC says but doesn't pick up the cup.[JOE] First....you have to drink it first. [MAC] What are you? My Watcher or my mother? JOE sighs.[JOE] Mac....I'm your friend. [MAC] If you were my friend you'd give me that bottle back. [JOE] Well that's not going to happen, Mac. [MAC] Then you're no friend of mine. JOE lowers his head and closes his eyes. He shakes his head in silence.[MAC] Whatever. Just leave me alone. [JOE] That's not going to happen either. [MAC] You don't understand, Dawson. None of you.... MAC stands up and gets louder, but he is so drunk that he can't keep his balance and he falls back into the chair.[MAC] understands. [JOE] Understand what? JOE knows the answer but thinks Mac needs to vent.
MAC puts his elbows on the table and covers his face with his hands.[MAC] She's gone, Joe. The only thing in life I really cared about...and she's gone. MAC slurs into his hands. There's still a small part of him that is sober enough to try and fight to keep from sobbing pitifully.
JOE squeezes mac's shoulder.[JOE] I know. I'm so sorry. JOE says softly. He feels guilt because he is the one who broke the news of CJ's death to Mac.
MAC moves his hands away from his eyes, but keeps them covering his mouth and chin. he looks at Joe, although his vision is seriously blurred.[MAC] She....she.... MAC 's voice cracks and he begins obviously shaking and can't say what he started to say. He folds his arms on the table and lays his forehead on them and begins to sob quietly.
JOE leaves his hand on Duncan's shoulder as he fights back his own emotions.[JOE] I know. JOE says in almost a whisper.[JOE] I miss her, too, Mac. We all do. [MAC] Who's "we"? MAC says raising his head just enough that he can try and look at Joe.[JOE] Me...Connor, Methos.....Cresta....Richie...Peggy and especially Amanda. MAC lays his head back down.[MAC] She was my wife, Joe. My wife.....my life. [JOE] I know, pal. [JOE] I know. [MAC] You know nothing. MAC slurs, his voice muffled.[JOE] I know that you're hurting, Mac. I also know that you'll get through this. [MAC] Like I said...you know nothing. [JOE] Mac...I know that you are strong enough and eventually you will get through it. You always have. MAC raises his head slightly again.[MAC] What if I just don't want to get through it, Dawson? Huh? Anyone ever think of that? [JOE] And why wouldn't you? *Connor pulls his car into the parking lot of Joe's Bar and parks next to Duncan's T-Bird. He gets out and looks around at the nearly empty parking lot. "Slow night, Joe?" he says to himself. He locks his car and walks to the front door of the bar and steps inside.
MAC feels the buzz of another Immortal but only groans and lays his head back down.
*Connor feels an Immortal buzz and looks around the bar from just inside the front door.
JOE looks over the railing when the door downstairs opens. When he sees that it Connor he motions for him to come upstairs.[JOE] It's just Connor JOE informs Duncan.
MAC groans.
*Connor sees Joe upstairs and heads up there. When he gets to the top0 of the stairs he sees Duncan with his head resting on his arms which are folded on top of the table.
JOE sees the look on Connor's face when he sees the condition of his friend.
*Connor takes a deep breath and walks up to the table. He moves the chair that Duncan has his feet on and sits down. He looks at Duncan (although all he can see is the top of his head), then at the untouched cup of coffee, the bottle of scotch that is 3/4 empty on the other table and then up at Joe.
JOE returns Connor's gaze then closes his eyes and shakes his head but says nothing.[*Connor] Thanks, Dawson. I'll take over from here. *Connor says quietly and gives Joe a half smile.
JOE opens his eyes and nods in acknowledgment knowing that Connor is actually telling him to leave them alone for a few minutes. He gets to his feet and as he takes one last look at his friend he says to Connor, "if you need anything...just holler." Then he makes his way back downstairs and goes behind the bar. There are only 2 customers at the bar and he steps up to each of them and refreshes their drinks then begins wiping down everything behind the bar.
*Connor nods to Joe and manages a little bigger smile. He watches Joe as he makes his way downstairs and watches him go about the business of bar tending for a few minutes then turns his attention back to his clansman.[*Connor] Duncan? *Connor says softly and puts his hand on the "V" of Mac's shoulder and neck and gently "massages" the tight muscle. He can feel Duncan trembling and his heart breaks for him. He remembers how deep sorrow can run as he remembers how he felt when he lost his Heather. "At least you don't have to go through it alone," he thinks to himself.[MAC] I don't need a babysitter Connor. Go home. [*Connor] I know. No one said you did. I'm just here to give you ride home. *Connor says warmly.
MAC lifts his head. His face is wet and his eyes are red from crying. He looks around for the bottle of scotch (which Joe had taken downstairs with him). Not seeing it he then looks blankly at the cup of coffee in front of him.[*Connor] That will do more good inside of you then sitting in that cup on this table. [MAC] I didn't order it. i want my bottle back. [*Connor] Drink the coffee, Duncan. [MAC] You drink it. I don't want it. [*Connor] This subject isn't up for discussion, brother. Drink the coffee. *Connor says with a hint of sternness in his voice.
MAC 's face grows a slight shade of red and the expression in his eyes becomes laced with anger. He reaches out with a shaking hand and picks up the coffee cup. As he throws the cup over the railing he growls at Connor, "fuck you and the horse you rode in on...barother," stretching out the word brother. The cup shatters on the floor downstairs and echoes throughout the almost empty bar. He sits and glares at his clansman.
*Connor glances over the railing at Joe who is looking up at him worriedly and waves as he says, "we're okay up here."
JOE watches the two upstairs for a couple of seconds and when he's sure they they are, in fact, alright he begins settling down his startled customers.[MAC] No...we're NOT okay. MAC says in almost a whisper. his speech is still seriously slurred.
*Connor glances back at Duncan.[*Connor] What? *Connor asks not completely sure what Mac had said.[MAC] We're not okay. At least I'm not. *Connor puts his hand back on Duncan's shoulder.[*Connor] No...not right now. But you will be. MAC slams his fist against the table causing a loud thud.[MAC] You fucking people just don't get it. *Connor is a little startled at Mac"s action, but he remains stalwart and looks directly into Duncan's eyes.[*Connor] What don't we get, Duncan? [MAC] It's not that I can't or won't be okay....or that I can't or won't get... MAC makes quotation marks with his fingers in the air.[MAC] through this. I don't WANT to be okay. I don't WANT to get through this. MAC lowers his head and closes his eyes trying to stop more tears from falling.[MAC] I don't want to go on without her. There's no reason to. MAC loses his weak battle and his tears spill down his cheeks as a couple of soft sobs escape him. He covers his face with his hand with his elbows resting on the table.[MAC] There's no point. *Connor is somewhat taken aback by Duncan's statement. He was with Duncan as he dealt with the devastation of finding his love, Little Deer and her entire village slaughtered. He had found diversions to help Duncan deal with the loneliness and guilt he had felt after running out on CJ over 120 years ago and he had comforted him and given Duncan emotional support by phone after Tessa had died, but he had never...not at anytime following those serious heartbreaks....heard his clansman talk like he was talking now. He had never seen him so utterly and completely defeated, wanting to give up. It was not in Duncan's nature. He finally realizes just how deeply and completely his clansman had loved his wife. He'd known all along that there was a deep and special love shared by them both but he had never realized just how deep it really was. Not until this moment. He hurts for Duncan...and felt a little envious as well.
*Connor takes a couple of minutes to think of something to say. When he speaks he does so in an even, soft and understanding voice.[*Connor] I thought you said that you loved her. MAC looks up at Connor incredulously.[MAC] What did you say? [*Connor] You heard me. I thought you said you loved her. MAC squints his eyes at Connor.[MAC] You know i do. *Connor widens his eyes and shrugs.[*Connor] No. I don't think you do. [MAC] You what? MAC starts to reach out as if he's going to grab the collar of Connor's shirt.[MAC] How can you say that to me, Connor? *Connor backed just out of Duncan's reach.[*Connor] Because if you loved her as much as you say you do you wouldn't keep leaving her. [MAC] What the fuck are you talking about? I didn't leave her. She's dead, Connor. DEAD! [*Connor] You're leaving...deserting her now just like you did back in 1883, Duncan. MAC starts to get up and at the same time takes a drunken swing at Connor which throws him off balance and he stumbles, falling into the table.[MAC] You son of a bitch. MAC yells.
*Connor ducks the swing and then reaches out grabbing hold of Duncan and steadies him them gently pushes him back into his seat.[*Connor] I may be that but I am also right. MAC looks at Connor dumbfounded and hurt.[MAC] How can I leave her? She's....she's..... MAC leans forward and puts his elbows on his knees, his face in his hands and sobs openly.
*Connor 's own eyes cloud with tears. Tears for his clansman, tears for CJ, who had always held a special place in his heart, and tears for himself, but he manages to keep them at bay.[*Connor] You took the coward's way out 123 years ago and you're doing it again now. [MAC] Stop, Connor Please stop. MAC begs into his hands.[*Connor] No. I won't stay quiet this time. I kept my mouth shut the last time. I never once told you how spineless i thought you were being and how you had devastated the best woman you had had or ever would have with your selfishness. But not this time. This time I will tell you that you're an idiot. [MAC] Connor, please. Please stop. MAC begs through his sobs. He is shaking violently now and can no longer control it.
*Connor wants to just take Duncan into his arms as if he were a small child but he meant what he said....he refuses to coddle Duncan this time...and he will NOT...for CJ's sake...allow his clansman to think he is right because no one will tell him different, so he keeps his distance, although it is killing him.[*Connor] To love someone, Duncan, is to also respect them. If you don't respect someone...you can't possibly love them. not really. *Connor says sounding old and wise.[MAC] I....I.....know....that....c....C....Connor MAC stammers through his chattering teeth.[*Connor] So how can you say that you love Cara when you do not respect her? [MAC] B...b...but I...I do. MAC wishes Cara were here to hold him.[*Connor] No, Duncan, you don't. If you had any respect for her at all you wouldn't do the one thing that would hurt her the most. MAC starts to say something but he can't stop shaking enough to speak. He groans with frustration.[*Connor] She loved you, Duncan. She loved you more than life itself. Your life meant more to her than her own. MAC says, "I know," but is barely heard through his stammering.[*Connor] Do you? *Connor reaches down and grabs the collar of Duncan's coat (which he never took off when he came upstairs to get drunk) and pulls him almost out of his chair, forcing Duncan to make eye contact.[*Connor] Then how can you talk about taking away the one life that was her world? It's no different than if you were to kill Liam...or Amanda. It's totally disrespectful of her feelings and it's the coward's way out. *Connor shoves Duncan back into his chair and lets go of his collar.[*Connor] It's a shame. I never thought I'd see MacLeod become a coward. I never thought it was possible for you to be one. No wonder your father's sword hangs in Glenfinan...unclaimed. You weren't man enough to lead the Clan. Ian was right in his decision. *Connor says disgustedly.
MAC looks up at Connor in shock.
*Connor gets to his feet and shoves his chair out of the way...hard enough that it clatters into the table.[*Connor] I done. I'm finished with you. You're not a MacLeod. You're a coward and I want nothing to do with anyone that bears a streak of yellow down their back. *Connor steps toward the upstairs exit.
MAC suddenly feels as lost and alone as he did the night his father banished him from the clan because he believed him to be a devil. He struggles to his feet.[MAC] Connor....wait...please, don't go. Wait, Connor *Connor 's back is to Duncan as he continues to the door that leads outside. He locks his jaw and grits his teeth fighting the urge to turn around and forgive Duncan as well as ask for his forgiveness.
MAC , seeing that Connor is not stopping, panics and staggers after him.[MAC] Please, Connor. Don't go. Connor *Connor opens the door and squints against the brightness of the sunny day outside of the bar. he steps over the threshold and onto the landing outside the door, letting the door slam shut behind him. He waits for a few seconds and takes a deep breath trying to calm himself then starts down the to the parking lot below.
MAC staggers after him. He nearly falls through the door as he shoves it open. He sees that Connor is almost down the stairs and stumbles down after him, slipping down more steps than walking down them.[MAC] Connor, wait. Please. *Connor reaches the parking lot and heads for his car. He takes out his keys and hit the alarm button on his keyring which also unlocks all the doors. He walks around and gets in the driver's seat and quickly and unobserved reaches across and opens the passenger door so that it unlatched but not obviously open. he then takes his time putting the key int the ignition and putting on his seat belt.
MAC stumbles to the passenger side of the car. When he gets there, he reaches for the door handle with one hand while the other braces against the car to hold him up. He is having to fight to stay on his feet not only from his inebriation but because he is shaking more now than he was inside only now because he is terrified that he will be more alone than ever before in his life if he loses Connor, too. He manages to open the passenger door of Connor's car (only because it was already open) and practically falls into the seat.[MAC] Please Connor. I'm sorry. MAC stammers in a small voice.[*Connor] Close the door. *Connor says keeping his voice monotoned. He starts the engine and glances over to make sure the door is closed then puts his car in gear and backs out of the parking slot. He pulls out of the parking lot of Joe's bar in silence and turns onto the street suddenly regretting his decision to turn in that direction instead of the other because he will be going right past Duncan's burned out Dojo and loft where he and Cara had lived when they first returned to Seacouver. But he continues to drive.
MAC sits in the passenger seat and hugs himself trying to get control. He forces his eyes to focus on the passing scenery hoping it will force him to sober up which he also hopes will aid in gaining emotional control of himself. But as they pass the burned out shell of the building he and his wife once called home he loses ground with his battle.[MAC] Oh...God. MAC moans and closes his eyes, laying his head against the back of the passenger seat.
*Connor glances at Duncan out of the corner of his eyes. He can see that Duncan is still shaking which feeds his own guilt at...1...being so harsh in the bar...and ...2...turning this way instead of the other.[*Connor] Sorry, Duncan. I didn't think before i turned out of the parking lot. It's just been awhile. i guess i forgot. MAC sets his elbow on the passenger door by the window and presses the knuckle of his index finger against his mouth.[MAC] It was wa.....wa....one year ag...g...go to....to....day. MAC stammers
*Connor glances at him a little confused.[*Connor] What was? [MAC] I....I....I b...b..b..brought her home f...f....from N...N...New York. *Connor winces at his forgetfulness. He remembers now and nods.[*Connor] I guess it was. I didn't realize...but...yeah. You had been back barely a week when i arrived. That was rough time for you two. [MAC] M...m...more for her. Continued on page 2
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:42:41 GMT -5
MAC remembers the reason he, with Methos' help, had closed up his new York apartment and Dojo and brought Cara home to Seacouver so that she could recover, not only from being abducted and held for a week and raped by the sick and twisted Ashton Lawrence, but from the Dark quickening she had taken when she fought and beheaded the son of a bitch. It had been one of their most difficult times. But it had also been one of their most strengthening as well. It was during that time that they learned the strength of their bond that was created and fed by their unconditional love for each other because it was that love and that bond that gave Cara the will and strength to become victorious over the effects of the Dark Quickening. He remembers the events that led up to their journey home and those that followed clearly, but when he remembers the night that Cara had stubbornly sworn was the night the darkness was defeated, the memories become so vividly real that he can feel not only the warmth of her touch as she held him tight and comforted him as he completely lost all emotional control and fell apart...releasing all that had built up inside of him during that time.....but the warm softness of her breath on the top of his head as he buried his face in the crook of her neck and held on to her for dear life as well. It was as if it were happening to him not just a memory
*Connor watches Duncan out of the corner of his eye. He continues the drive to Wyn's house in silence. Once he gets there he pulls to the curb in front of the house and puts the car in park but does not shut off the window. He turns in his seat so that he is looking directly at Duncan.
MAC opens his eyes when he feels the car come to a stop. He looks out the passenger window and sees that they are in front of Wyn's house. He looks back at Connor and can see the look in his clansman's eyes and has a good idea what he is thinking. So he beats Connor to the punch by saying, “thanks. I know you want to get back to Lillith's. I'll b....b..be alright.” He had hoped that he would have been able to get that out a little more convincing than that.
*Connor looks past Duncan to the house he knows is empty because Liam and Wyn have been with him at Lillith's all day helping her as she works with Greg trying to get to the bottom of the Horton situation. They all had agreed that, although it may have been too late for CJ, it wasn't for the any others who Horton may have hidden away in that castle of his and, for that matter, any other Immortals he might grab to turn into his personal weapons...as well as those whom he intended to use his weapons against. Connor hates the idea of leaving Duncan alone to his own devices. He is not completely sure that Mac won't try to do something stupid just so he might get himself killed. He also realizes that he can't stand watch over his one time student for the rest of his life...however long or short that maybe. “They all die, Duncan,” he remembers telling Duncan after Little Deer had been killed. “Man kills man...we kill each other...it's how the game is played.” Connor had learned after losing Heather that he didn't have the luxury of giving in to his grief. It was the price they all had to pay for immortality, even though none of them had asked for it. It was true that it had hardened him to the sorrows they all endured and the longer he lived, it seemed, the more cynical he had become. Very few....he could count them on one hand and still have fingers left over...had ever broken through to his armor plated heart. Of course there was and always would be his clansman, Duncan MacLeod...and there was and always would be his precious Rachel who was happily married and living in a tropical paradise somewhere. There had the only other mortal woman Connor had ever loved enough o marry, Brenda...and there was CJ who had managed to find a chink in his armor and had stolen his heart...maybe even enough, that had it not been for the fact that she had eyes for no one but Duncan, he might have broken his own rule about getting involved romantically with an Immortal female, but since he knew that he didn't stand a chance against his clansman, he allowed her to keep that which she had stolen, loved her for it, trusted her with it and cherished the thought that she held it. He reaches over and grabs Duncan's shoulder. He cannot find the words that should be said right now so he only looks into his clansman's eyes.
MAC takes hold of Connor's arm and manages a weak...and somewhat unconvincing smile. “Thanks, Connor,” he says shakily his eyes brimming with tears.
[*Connor] For what?
[MAC] For always being there when I need you. Whether I may think I do or not.
MAC swallows hard against the massive lump in his throat.
[*Connor] Promise me that you will call me at Lillith's if you need anything. Even if it's just to talk.
[MAC] Or to listen.
MAC manages a small smile again and he squeezes Connor's arm as he nods indicating that he will. He lets go of Connor's arm and unfastens his seatbelt and opens the passenger door. He hesitates for a second unsure, himself, if he wants to be alone. Then he gets out of the car. His fear at Joe's of losing Connor and being completely alone had managed to sober him up enough that he doesn't stagger as he makes his way to the front door. He fishes they house key Wyn gave him out of his jeans pocket and, although his hand shakes and it takes a couple of times to get the key into the lock, he opens the door and disarms the alarm system using the code Wyn had also given him. He turns back and sees that Connor is still sitting in his car watching so he waves and closes the front door.
*Connor waits until he sees that Duncan is “safely” in the house then puts his car in gear and drives away. His intentions are to return to Lillith's but when he comes to the cutoff that leads to the beach access road he turns and follows it. He pulls into a beach access parking lot and parks, getting out of his car. He walks down the pathway to the beach which is deserted. He walks close to the tide line and stops. He bends down and picks up a piece of drift wood and holds it in both hands as he gazes out over the ocean. Then....as his emotions surface he grasps the piece of wood in one hand and hurls it into the surf with all the strength he can muster and drops to his knees, spreads his arms out at his sides, leans his head back and looks at the sky and lets out a bone chilling howl and then breaks into sobs that seem to come from deep within his soul. After a few minutes of indulgence he struggles to his feet and takes a deep breath, reigning in his emotions. Calmed, he returns to his car and resumes his drive back to Lillith's house.
MAC locks the front door, resets the alarm and goes to his room. He closes the door and sits on the edge of the bed. He removes his shoes and lays down on his back and stares blankly at the ceiling for a few minutes, then pulls the afghan folded across the foot of the bed over him and turns on his side, holding it tight under his chin as though its warmth will calm his shaking. He closes his eyes and tries to clear his mind.
MAC sat up and swung his legs over the side of the bed. He braced himself with his arms against the top of the mattress at his sides. He couldn't stop the tears from falling or his body from shaking...no matter how hard he is tried. He realized that he had dozed off and, although he had no recollection of it, figured that he must have had a nightmare that had woken him up. He tried to take some deep breaths to calm himself but it didn't work. Instead a sob escaped his lips.
CARA woke up and turned over. Seeing Duncan sitting with his back to her and feeling the vibration of the mattress indicating that he was shaking, she reached out and put her hand on his shoulder and gently pulled him around to her as she said softly, “hey...hey. Come here. It's okay, baby. Come here.”
MAC turned around. Seeing her face...the love, understanding and sympathy in her eyes, he remembered the gist of his nightmare, that being that this loving woman he had been honored to marry...who had always been there for him without question and without fail...as she was now...had died. He couldn't remember how...only that it had happened. The dream had been so disturbingly real that he had been overcome with emotion. The thought of losing her...for whatever reason had caused a fear....no a terror...inside of him that he had never experienced before and he had been taken by surprise so much so that it had taken control of him. He reached out and took her in his arms...or, more precisely...let her take him into her arms. He buried his face in the crook of her neck and clung tightly to her as he lost what control he had left and sobbed bitterly and his body violently shook...so much so that it was hard to even hold on to her, but he didn't dare let her go....he couldn't...she was his life line.
CARA held Duncan as tightly as he clung to her. With one hand she stroked his hair and with the other she held him to her.
[CARA] Shhhhh, baby.....it's okay. Shhhhh.
CARA said soothingly.
[CARA] Shhhhh..what is it, baby? What's wrong?
[MAC] I.....I.....you....were.....oh G...g...g..god.
MAC stammered and sobbed harder.
[MAC] D....d....d....don't l....l....l...leave m...m...me. Ever. P...p...please?
CARA was surprised by his request but quickly figured out that he must have had a nightmare. She pulled him closer trying to not only comfort him but hoping that her strength will somehow help him to stop shaking.
[CARA] Shhhhh, baby. It was only a dream. I'm right her. I'm not going anywhere. Shhhhh, my love. It's alright. Shhhhh.
MAC was completely unnerved by the intense realness of the dream. As he fought to not think about it, several memories from it flashed through his mind...like flipping pages of a photo album and the harder he tried to stop them the more vivid they became and the harder he sobbed until he was sure he was going to lose his mind. The only thing that kept that from happening was feeling Cara's arms around him, hearing the rhythmic beating of her heart as he laid his head against her chest , listening to he soft voice speaking to him soothingly and knowing that it had all been a dream...that she was there...that she...and he were safe.
[MAC] It wa....wa....was s...s...so real. I...I...I......please, d....d....don't l...l..leave m...m...me.
[CARA] Shhhhh It's alright, baby. I'm not going anywhere.
[MAC] P....p...p...prom..m..mice?
[CARA] I promise, my love. I will always be here. For as long as you need me to be. Shhhhh, baby. It's okay. I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere. Shhhhh.....calm down, sweetheart. I'm right here.
CARA began caressing his back as she continued to whisper words of comfort.
MAC clung to Cara shaking and intermittently sobbing for what seemed like days. At one point Cara had shifted her body into a more comfortable position underneath him which had required that she loosen her hold on him and he panicked thinking she was letting go completely and leaving and her grabbed her and held her so tight that she almost couldn't breath, but letting go at that point was not an option because even the thought of doing so caused him to begin shaking harder. Finally her efforts paid off and his tears came to an end and his shaking began to lessen. He was still unable to speak without stammering through his chattering teeth, so he held her in silence, letting her warm touch and soft words fill him to his soul and eventually he became calm enough to let emotional and physical exhaustion take control and he fell into a deep, dreamless sleep still wrapped in the safety of his beloved Cara's arms.
MAC is awakened by the sound of a garbage truck outside making its early morning rounds. At first the sound filters into his consciousness, sounding distant. Not ready to wake up and face the day....more importantly, wanting...(now more than needing)...to stay in the warmth of Cara's arms...and keep her in his...for a little while longer before having to separate and go about their daily routines, he tries to block out the sound of the truck and drift back to sleep. But the bright morning sun that is filtering through the blinds covering the bedroom window that he had forgotten to close last night before he and Cara went to bed, begins to seep through his closed eyelids and he realizes that waking up was imminent and he allows his mind to clear of the fog of sleep. When he is fully awake he opens his eyes At the same time he becomes aware of the fact that he is clutching the extra pillow on the bed. He raises up and looks around. At first he feels somewhat disoriented...then he realizes that he is not in the bedroom of the meadow cabin...not in the 16th century canopy bed that he made for Cara in 1883 (although not married to her then)...that Cara was not laying next to him and he had been clinging to the pillow and not his wife. That realization brings his mind into complete focus and he closes his eyes and falls back against his pillow placing his arm across his eyes as he remembers, all too clearly, that Cara is dead and he is alone. He lays that way for several minutes, then sits up and swings his legs over the side of the bed. He looks back over his shoulder at the crumpled and tear stained pillow he had been clutching and remembers what he had thought had been real. The realization that it had all been a vividly real dream depicting the complete opposite of reality...not even a possibility of being then or ever being true...., surprisingly, does not leave him in the grip of grief and fear. Instead, as he remembers more of the vivid details of his dream, he smiles at the crumpled tear stained pillow Even he is a little surprised that...as bad as he had been at Joe's....and as bad as he had been in his dream...he was completely calm now. He can still feel Cara's arms around him and hear her soothing words as if she were still there and somewhere....in the deep, dark recesses of his soul, he hears the familiar, yet distant voice of his wife.
[CARA] I told you...I would always be here. For as long as you needed me. I promised you that and I have never broken a promise I have made you....have I? I love you. I always will.
[MAC] No. You never have broken your promises. Please...please forgive me for losing faith....for ever doubting you. I know you love me. And I will always love you.
MAC says aloud to the empty room.
[MAC] I know you will always be with me. I will never doubt you again....I promise.
MAC turns away from the pillow and gets up, puts on his robe and heads for the bathroom and his morning shower.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:43:23 GMT -5
KACEY sits on a chair in the shadows of Seamus' hotel room...waiting for him to return from wherever it is he has gone.
Seumus walks into the lobby of the hotel and takes the elevator. He had just finished having dinner at an Italian restaurant about a block away.
Seumus steps out of the elevator once it has stopped on the floor his room is on. He walks down the hallway and feels the buzz come over him. He pulls his sword from his coat as he approaches the door. He slips in the key card and opens the door slowly. He was wishing it would be Wyn surprising him, but he knew that wasn't possible.
KACEY hears the gears and pulleys of the old elevator long before she feels the Immortal buzz. She stands and walks silently over to the front door. She stands with her back against the wall by the door so that when he opens the door she will be hidden. She removes her 357 from its holster under her jacket.
Seumus doesn't step inside right away, but he looks around the darkness of the room and sees no one there. He doesn't let down his guard though as he steps into the dark hotel room.
KACEY places the muzzle of the pistol against Seumus' head just behind his ear and says in almost a whisper, "don't turn around...don't even breath
KACEY pushes the door closed with her foot.
Seumus stops dead in his tracks.
KACEY reaches around him and grabs his sword and takes it out of his hand.
[KACEY] Now...nice and easy...head for the bed.
KACEY says in a soft calm and very cold voice.
Seumus walks toward the bed. "I'm not used to my women holding guns to my head, but to each his own."
Seumus walks toward the bed. "I'm not used to my women holding guns to my head, but to each his own."
KACEY says in a soft calm and very cold voice.
Seumus walks toward the bed. "I'm not used to my women holding guns to my head, but to each his own."
Seumus stops dead in his tracks.
KACEY reaches around him and grabs his sword and takes it out of his hand.
[KACEY] Now...nice and easy...head for the bed.
KACEY says in a soft calm and very cold voice.
Seumus walks toward the bed. "I'm not used to my women holding guns to my head, but to each his own."
[KACEY] Just shut up and sit down.
KACEY says sternly.
KACEY uses the muzzle of her gun to give him a slight push.
Seumus shuts his mouth and sits down on the bed.
KACEY grabs the only other chair in the room and pulls it over in front of Seumus and sits on it backwards. She lays his sword across her lap and rests her arms on the chair back, pointing the gun at the Immortal.
KACEY is able to see Seumus in the dimly lit room, and can see that he can reach the lamp on the night stand.
[KACEY] Turn the light on.
Seumus reaches over and turns on the light and then looks to the woman.
KACEY looks at him and realizes that she had seen him a few time in Germany but those time that she had seen him he had been laid out on one of Dr. Sherring's exam tables.
[KACEY] You know who i am, Monro?
Seumus quirks a brow. "Should I?"
KACEY shrugs.
[KACEY] Probably not.
KACEY switches her gun to her other hand and adjust her position to one a little more comfortable.
[Seumus] So, who are you?
[KACEY] Seumus Monro...I am either your salvation...or your pink slip. It all depends.
Seumus crosses his arms over his chest. "Horton sent you then."
[KACEY] Give the man a cupie doll. You're smarter than you look Monro
[KACEY] If you realize that our boss sent me...then...do you know why?
KACEY uses the muzzle of the 357 to scratch an itch on the end of her nose.
Seumus gives her a smug look. "It must have to do with the fact that I haven't completed the task he asked me to do."
[KACEY] Hey, dude. not bad. you're two for two.
[KACEY] Let me ask you a question. How long have you worked for Mr. Horton?
Seumus thinks for a few seconds. "Three years now."
[KACEY] And in that time have you ever known anyone to get fired?
[Seumus] No, but I get where you're going with this.
[Seumus] So, what are my choices then?
[Seumus] Or do I even have any?
[KACEY] Now...you just sit there quietly and let me do the talking. Remember....I have your sword a and a big gun.
Seumus gets a bit more comfortable on the bed and then looks at the woman so she can talk.
[KACEY] So...Monro...in that 3 years...have you ever known anyone to quit Mr. Horton's employ?
[Seumus] No, I can't say that I have.
[KACEY] Ya ever wonder why that is?
Seumus shrugs. "No, not really."
[KACEY] Really. And I thought you looked like a curious fella.
KACEY shrugs.
[KACEY] Guess I was wrong.
[KACEY] Welll....no one ever gets fired or quits because...
KACEY stops and licks her lips enticingly.
Seumus watches her.
[KACEY] Mr. Horton doesn't believe those that he has given a home to...fed...taught....and supported should be so ungrateful that they would either defy him or leave him.
KACEY leans forward and looks dead into his eyes. Her expression changes from one of light hearted nonchalance to one of serious doom.
[KACEY] Mr. Horton...owns you, Monro. Do you get it now?
KACEY says very softly.
Seumus nods. "I get it."
[KACEY] He doesn't care about excuses because he doesn't believe there is a good excuse for failure.
KACEY sits back and begins playing with her gun.
[KACEY] I...however...like excuses. They can be so entertaing. You know what i mean?
[KACEY] So...even though Mr. Horton will never hear it....I'd like to hear why you haven't completed your assignment yet.
[Seumus] Another Immortal figured out what I was here for.
[Seumus] Plus, my assignment is attached to the hip of the Immortal who knows.
[KACEY] Really. And how...pray tell...did that happen? Is this Immortal able to read minds? Foretell the future?
Seumus shrugs off his coat and lets it drop onto the bed. "No, she was my teacher and she knows about Horton."
[Seumus] I don't know how or why she knows about him, but she does. And my assignment is her lover. So, I'm sure you can imagine how well that went over.
[KACEY] Ohhh. This mysteriously omnipotent Immortal is a she. It keeps getting more interesting as the clock ticks.
[KACEY] And ....let me guess.....the town of Seacouver is comprised of Amish people and they don't believe in telephones anywhere.
Seumus sighs, a bit exasperated. "Listen, just tell me what my bloody choices are, hmm?"
KACEY glances at the night stand.
[KACEY] Oh looky looky. There's a telephone right there.
KACEY stands and pushes the chair back out of her way. She's holding Monro's sword in her right hand and her gun in her left. She walks up to Monro and stands just out of his reach and looks down at him.
Seumus looks up at her.
KACEY narrows her eyes so that they are almost slits which makes her look even more threatening.
Seumus knows he's been pushing his luck, but he gets the feeling it's just about run out.
[KACEY] Mr. Monro...Mr. Horton made it perfectly clear as I was getting on the plane..that you have NO options
[Seumus] Then why all the talk when you could have shot me and then taken my head?
[KACEY] Hmmmm...
KACEY says sounding like she's pondering the question. She scratches under her chin with the muzzle of the gun.
KACEY looks back down at Monro
[KACEY] Maybe because I look at things slightly different than Mr. Horton does.
[KACEY] Or maybe it's because I have a weakness for pathetic losers.
KACEY shrugs.
[KACEY] Either way works for me.
KACEY bends over putting her face within inches of Monro's. She puts the tip of her gun against his throat just under his chin.
[KACEY] Do you want to live Mr. Monroe?
[Seumus] I like being alive.
[KACEY] Yeah? How much?
[Seumus] Quite a bit actually.
[KACEY] enough to be willing to work for your life? And maybe even your freedom?
[Seumus] Yes, I'll work to keep my head attached to the rest of me.
KACEY raises up, her smile has a hint of victory.
[KACEY] Very good, Mr. Monro Very, very good.
KACEY pulls the chair back over and sits back down. She studies him for a few minutes in silence. Then she says, "Do you know Mr. powers?"
[KACEY] Greg powers?
[Seumus] I've crossed his path a couple of times. Why?
[KACEY] How close are you to the woman attached to your assignment's hip?
[KACEY] Does she trust you?
"She was my teacher and we were together a few times." He shakes his head a bit. "She trusted me once, but not any longer."
[KACEY] Can you get her to trust you again? Even just a little?
Seumus thinks for a moment and then nods. "I think I can figure out a way to get her to trust me some."
KACEY smiles and nods approvingly.
[KACEY] Okay, Monro...here's the deal....your friend...teacher...whatever and her mates have been holding up in an old house near the University. It's pretty much a fortress...or at least what the people around here would consider a fortress. I need to get inside. They are holding Mr. powers. He's another loser like you and i need to liberate him so that I can deliver Mr. Horton's letter of termination...
KACEY makes quotation marks with her fingers in the air.
[KACEY] and...since you didn't do your assignment...I have to. Since they are all in one place it will be killing 2 birds with one stone.
KACEY laughs at her own pun.
[KACEY] You, Mr. Monro, are going to get me in there.
KACEY sits back and waits for his answer.
[Seumus] When do you want this done?
KACEY fishes a pack of cigarettes from her jacket pocket and lights one.
[KACEY] The sooner the better. Mr. Horton is sending his plane for me in a couple of days and I want it done before the plane even lands.
Seumus nods. "All right, then it'll be done."
[KACEY] When?
[Seumus] Tonight, if you want.
[KACEY] How are you going to get me inside?
KACEY wonders how he's going to get his friend to trust him and get her inside that soon.
[Seumus] It may not be till tomorrow that I can get you in. I'll have to talk to her.
KACEY shrugs.
[KACEY] That'll work, too.
KACEY narrows her eyes at him.
[KACEY] Now you wouldn't be thinking of trying to double cross me would you?
[Seumus] No, I'm not. I'm not that stupid.
KACEY looks at him quizzically
[KACEY] You're more afraid of me than you are of Mr. Horton?
[Seumus] You or Horton? Does it matter? Either way, I'll end up a head short.
KACEY grabs a sheet of paper off of the table nearby and writes the directions to the house and hands them to him.
Seumus takes the sheet of paper from her and looks over what she wrote.
[KACEY] Then i will meet you across the street from the house at 7:30 tomorrow night. There is a little grassy area across from the house with cement benches. that's where I'll be.
KACEY gets up. Before she turns to leave she steps closer to him and lifts his chin so that he is forced to look at her.
[KACEY] Believe this, Monro..,.if you don't show...there will be NO place on this planet...no in this universe for you to hide from me.
KACEY lets go of his chin and turns on her heals and head for the door of his hotel room.
[Seumus] I'll be there.
KACEY gets to the door and stops. She glances back at him and holds up his sword.
[KACEY] Oh yeah...and I'm keeping this for a while.
KACEY opens the door and steps out into the hallway and closes the door behind her.
Seumus stares at the closed door before he gets up from the bed. He hoped Wyn didn't decide to come looking for him because he wouldn't stand much of a chance without his sword.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:44:44 GMT -5
LIAM is sitting in Lillith's library at the desk with a stack of books that he is going through and making some notes on a tablet of yellow legal paper.
LIAM sighs and sits back in the chair, removes his reading glasses and rubs the bridge of his nose.
LIAM puts his hand on the back of his neck and rolls his head around while massaging the muscles in his neck.
Delwyn walks into the library, carrying two cups. She walks over to Liam and places a cup of coffee in front of him. "I thought you might want a cup."
LIAM smiles up at her as he takes the cup from her.
[LIAM] mmmm....thanks pretty lady.
LIAM takes a sip.
LIAM stares at the undaunting stacks of books.
[LIAM] How's Greg doing?
Delwyn puts her cup down on the desk and stands behind him and begins massaging his neck and shoulders. "He's resting quietly for now."
LIAM closes his eyes andc leans his head forward and moans contentedly.
Delwyn applies more pressure. "You've been sitting here to long."
Seumus finds the piece of paper with Wyn's number on it. He picks up his cell and dials the number.
[LIAM] I had no idea how much has been done in the area of brain washing and mind control. It's amazing....and really kind of scarey.
LIAM says indicating the stack of books.
Delwyn pulls her hands away from Liam's neck as she feels her cell phone vibrate in her pocket. She pulls it out and answers. "Hello...?"
[Seumus] Wyn, it's Seumus.
Delwyn sighs, a bit exasperated. "What do you want?"
LIAM sits up and takes another drink of his coffee. he gets up and stretches then walks over to the window and looks out at the University campus.
Seumus figured she would be upset with him, but he continues. "I need your help. The headaches are getting worse." He wasn't quite lying, since he was having the headaches more frequently.
LIAM walks over to the desk and sets his coffe down. He gestures to Wyn that he's going to the bathroom and walks out of the library.
Delwyn watches Liam leave. "You want my help? Why? So, you can take my head or take Liam's?"
Seumus sighs. "No, Wyn. I can barely function from the pain. I don't want your head or his. I just need something to help with the pain. I've tried other pain killers, but nothing seems to help."
Delwyn is still rather wary. "Fine...I can't leave where I am right now, so if the pain isn't too bad you'll have to wait."
LIAM leaves the bathroom and goes downstairs to the lab to check on Greg.
[Seumus] The pain comes in waves. Sometimes it isn't so bad, but other times the pain brings me to my knees. I can't wait.
LIAM watches as Greg reacts to wheatever it is he is seeing in the virtual reality helmet. He decides that...at some point he wants to put the thing on himself so he can see just what it is all about.
Delwyn sits down in the chair Liam had been sitting in. "Fine, but if you try anything stupid you will lose your head."
Seumus grunts in mock pain. "Aye, I understand." He grabs a piece of paper.
Delwyn gives Seumus the directions to Lillith's place and then hangs up.
LIAM Lilltih had left instructions that should Greg become too upset during this session there was a syringe with a mild tranquilizer in the lab cooler. Liam decides that Greg is not upset enough about whatever he is experiencing to warrant the tranquilizer. He turns and quietly leaves the lab and heads back upstairs.
LIAM walks into the library and over to the desk. he picks up his coffee cup and drinks it and turns to head for the kitchen for a refiull.
Seumus hangs up and stuffs the paper into his coat pocket. He leaves is room, gets in the elevator and goes down to the lobby. He walks out of the hotel and grabs a vacant cab. He tells the cabby where he wants to go and they take off.
Delwyn puts her cell back in her jean's pocket. She gets up, grabs her cup of coffee and follows Liam.
LIAM pours himself another cup of coffee and goes to the phone on the wall and dials the number at Wyn's house. When he doesn't get an answer he hangs up and stares at the phone, worried.
Delwyn looks at Liam. "What's wrong?"
LIAM is startled back to the here and now and turns to look at Wyn.
[LIAM] I don't know. Probably nothing. Just...
LIAM waves it off and smiles.
[LIAM] Ahhh. Just me being a worry wort. You know. It's most likely nothing.
[LIAM] Who was your phone call from?
LIAM looks at her playfully.
[LIAM] Should I be jealous?
Delwyn isn't going to push at the moment. "Seumus Monro." She leans against the counter and puts her cup on the counter.
LIAM winks.
[LIAM] Really? What did he want?
LIAM thinks, "As if I didn't know."
[Delwyn] He's having more headaches. He wants me to give him something to help.
[Delwyn] He's coming here.
[LIAM] Well....you know there's only one thing that will help him, right? Have you talked to him at all about it?
Delwyn shakes her head. "No, I haven't. But I figure him coming here I can talk to him about."
[LIAM] He's coming here?
LIAM says more than a little surprised.
Delwyn nods.
[LIAM] Are you sure that's wise?
[Delwyn] If he pulls anything, he'll be dead.
Delwyn is quite serious.
[LIAM] What if he's followed?
[LIAM] I mean...who knows...maybe Horton has him being watched to make sure he does whatever it is he is supposed to do.
LIAM wishes he weren't the only male here.
[LIAM] I know you want to help him, sweetheart but I just don't like you taking any chances.
[LIAM] We just have to be really careful or this whoile thing could come crashing down around us. You know what i'm saying?
Delwyn nods. "I know. Don't worry. He won't try anything with me around."
LIAM takes her in his arms.
[LIAM] Have I told you recently that I love you?
Delwyn smiles a bit. "Hmmm...I think so, but I don't mind hearing it over and over again."
LIAM kisses her.
[LIAM] I love you, Delwyn Caernarfon.
Seumus The cab pulls up in front of the house. He pays the cabby and gets out. As he walks up to the door, he feels the buzz wash over him.
LIAM feels an Immortal buzz and stiffens.
Delwyn feels the buzz tingle down her spine. She steps away from Liam and walks out of the kitchen.
LIAM lets go of Wyn and walks to the front door. He picks up his sword from by the door and stands there waiting for the bell to ring.
Delwyn grabs her sword as well. She looks at Liam. "Let me handle this."
Seumus knocks lightly on the door.
LIAM quirks an eyebrow, then bows in mock gallance and steps away from the door.
[LIAM] Yes, dear.
Delwyn walks up to the door and opens it. She has her sword raised.
Seumus A corner of his mouth turns up. "Nice greeting..." He looks at the sword.
Delwyn sticks out her hand. "Give me your coat and sword."
LIAM leans against the doorway that goes into the kitchen with his arms folded across his chest and watches the two.,
Seumus pulls off his coat and gives the coat to her. "I don't have my sword with me."
Delwyn quirks a brow. "Doesn't mean you don't have any other weapons on you though." She waits for him to hand over whatever he's hiding.
Seumus sighs. "I swear to you, I am unarmed. I didn't come here for a fight. I just need your help."
Delwyn feels a pang of guilt, but she still remains wary. She steps aside so he can come in.
Seumus walks in. He glances around. "I'm guessing this isn't your place. Nothing here is your style." He looks at her.
Delwyn puts his coat in the closet. "No, it's not my place, but that hardly matters." She walks past him and to the kitchen, her sword still at her side.
[LIAM] We're house sitting for a friend.
Seumus follows Wyn and stops, seeing Liam.
LIAM follows them into the kitchen and walks over to the wall by the pantry which hides the door down to the lab and leans against it.
Seumus clenches his jaw. He should have known Liam would be here.
Seumus could get Gregor out and take Liam's head, but he'd have to get his hands on a sword first.
Delwyn leans her sword against the kitchen wall. "Sit down at the table."
Delwyn gestures to the seat and then sits across from it.
Seumus sits down, glances over at Liam and then looks back at Wyn.
[LIAM] How long have you been having these headaches?
LIAM asks from his spot against the wall.
Seumus looks at Liam. He really didn't want to talk to the man, but he didn't have much of a choice. "I was getting mild headaches just before I ran into Wyn and they became worse the night Wyn and I met for dinner."
LIAM quirks an eyebrow and looks at Wyn. He says nothing but makes sure she sees his curiosity then turns his attention back to Seumus.
[LIAM] Heve you had any nose bleeds with the headaches?
Delwyn sees the look and wonders why he seems surprised.
[Seumus] No, no nose bleeds.
LIAM thinks to himself, "yeah well, you will."
LIAM watches Wyn work her magic.
Delwyn sits back in her chair. "I can give you some herbs for a tea or there is another way to help permanently get rid of them."
LIAM goes to the coffee pot and pours himself another cup and leans against the counter watching Seumus warily.
Seumus looks at Wyn. "You can make them stop? I didn't know you could do that."
LIAM moves nonchalantly to the doorway that leads out of the kitchen and leans against the door jam, blocking the doorway.
[Delwyn] I can't make them go away. My abilities can't do that, but I know someone who can. You just have to agree to go through the whole procedure.
Seumus quirks a brow. "A procedure?" He's not quite sure if he likes this idea.
[LIAM] Let me ask you something, Seumus. have you been having any strange thoughts...visions...memories?
Seumus looks at Liam. "I've had thoughts about things that are from the past, but they aren't the past as I know it."
LIAM glances at Wyn.
[LIAM] Do these memories coincide with the headaches?
[Seumus] Some times they do.
[Seumus] Where are you going with this?
LIAM nods to Wyn indicating that she should explain.
[Delwyn] Those thoughts are part of your true past. Horton reprogrammed you, gave you a new history and memories.
Seumus shakes his head. "No, they're just day dreams..." He can't believe that he had been brain washed.
Delwyn sighs. "Seumus, Horton took you and made you into his robot basically."
[Delwyn] You know only what Horton wants you to know.
[Delwyn] I'm actually surprised you remember me.
Seumus shakes his head a bit. "Then there is proof that I haven't been 'reprogrammed'. If he did that than I shouldn't even know who you are."
[LIAM] That's because he screwed up. You weren't suppose to remember anything.
[Delwyn] You have been, Seumus. Remember I told you that what you told Liam about how we met was completely wrong?
Seumus sighs. "I just can't believe that I'd be so weak that someone could do that to me."
[LIAM] It has nothing to do with weakness, son. What Horton has is a powerful drug and some highly intelligent...although sick minded...scientists.
Delwyn stands up and grabs her now cold cup of coffee. She pours it down the sink and pours herself a fresh cup. "This procedure will deprogram you and then reprogram you with all the correct information and it will be a hell of a lot easier on you than what Horton did to you."
[Seumus] So, what exactly would this all enatil? And how are you so sure it works?
[LIAM] Let me put it to you this way....would you rather spend eternity like this?
[LIAM] The headaches are from an aneurysm caused by the drug he gave you. It will rupture.
Seumus really didn't give a damn about what Horton did or didn't do to him. He needed to find Greg and get him out, because if he didn't it wouldn't matter which Seumus he was, that woman would take his head for not following through.
[LIAM] And...yes...you will die. Revive and then it will repeat itself.
[LIAM] Over and over and over.
Seumus looks at Wyn.
[Delwyn] He's telling you the truth.
Delwyn takes a sip of coffee. "The pain gets worse much worse."
[LIAM] It can even cause grand mal seizures.
Seumus isn't sure what to think now. If Wyn stated it was true then it was. He really didn't want to have to go through that, but he had to get to Greg. "Where is this friend of your's then?"
[LIAM] She's not here. She's a professor at the university.
LIAM says being vague.
[Seumus] Has this worked on anybody or been tried on anyone?
[LIAM] Even as we speak.
[LIAM] Seumus...you don't strike me as the kind of person who kills for sport or pleasure.
[LIAM] Or who likes being used.
Seumus looks at Liam. "No, I don't like any of those."
Delwyn watches Seumus as she takes another sip of coffee.
[LIAM] Well that's exactly what Horton is doing. He tried to turn you into his weapon against other Immortals.
[LIAM] The whole idea was to wipe out all of your memories and then program new ones into your brain so that you would think you had been loyal to him and he to you and that you werre performing a needed service.
[LIAM] Then he would send you out into the world ready to kill at his bidding.
[LIAM] Have you been asked to return to your so called office?
Seumus nods. "Basically, yes." He was stretching it here since he hadn't heard from Horton, but from the mystery woman in his hotel room that he was going to be exterminated for not completing his assignment.
[LIAM] Your office is a castle in Germany and is where Horton has his labs and torture chambers. It's his headquarters. You're being summonbed back there to be terminated because you're considered a failure. Because you can remember things you shouldn't be able to remember.
[LIAM] He'll be afraid you will remember things that could ruin his little plans.
[LIAM] You have become a liabnility.
[LIAM] Now the way I see it you have 3 choices.
[LIAM] You can go back and be terminated...permanantly...
[LIAM] You could go on the run and spend the rest of your immortal life looking over your shoulder....
[LIAM] Or you can stay here with us and let us help you and then...if you so desire...team up with us in putting a stop to Horton's madness once and for all.
[LIAM] It's up to you, son. Which will it be?
[Seumus] Well, this isn't very hard. I'd like to stay alive.
[Delwyn] Then you agree to let us help you?
Seumus nods. "Yes."
[LIAM] Is there anything out there...
LIAM indicates the world outside of this house.
[LIAM] that would link you to this house and us?
Seumus shakes his head. "Not that I know of."
[LIAM] Good. Then you won't need to go back to your room. From this point...you will remain here.
LIAM readies himself in case Seumus puts up a fight and tries to leave.
Seumus nods.
LIAM nods his approval of Seumus' decision.
Seumus would have to figure out a way to get out. Wyn and Liam had sleep at some time or another.
[LIAM] Good. Then I will leave you in Wyn's more than capable hands.
LIAM says to Wyn, "I'll be in the library if you need me."
Delwyn relaxes a bit. She's glad that Seumus has decided to believe them over Horton. She looks at Liam. "All right."
LIAM turns and goes into the library and returns to his research.
Delwyn takes a seat next to him. "You've made a good decision, Seumus." She takes hold of his hand and gives it a gentle squeeze. "I'll be happy to have my old friend back."
Seumus smiles. "I don't want you to worry about me." He lets go of her hand as pain shoots through his head. He grunts.
Delwyn sighs. She stands up and places a hand on either side of Seumus' head. She focuses energy into her hands and directs it toward the source of Seumus' pain.
Seumus feels the soothing heat radiating off of Wyn's hands and the pain starts to subside immediately.
Delwyn stands there for a couple of minutes, making sure the pain has eased before she releases him.
Seumus Once she steps back he looks up at her. "Thank you."
Delwyn gives him a nod. "Come, let me get you settled and we'll start tomorrow." She walks to the door by the pantry and opens it.
Seumus fights back a smirk. A secret door? He knows that Greg had to be on the other side. This was going to be a hell of a lot easier than he thought.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:45:36 GMT -5
LIAM stands across the table from Greg helping him prepare Seumus for his first "treatment".
[Gregor] How are you feeling Seumus?
LIAM would like to tell Seumus this will be painless but he remembers what Greg had gone through the first few times.
Seumus looks over to Greg. "I'm ok at the moment."
[Gregor] Okay.
Gregor begins turning on monitors and hooking Seumus up to IVs
LIAM pats Seumus on the shoulder comfortingly.
[LIAM] Just try and relax, son.
Delwyn walks down the stairs and walks over to Seumus.
[Gregor] These will make you relax and start reversing the neurochemical changes that Horton has made to your brain.
[Gregor] The monitors will have familiar images, not only from Watcher files, but also peaceful images to help you relax further.
Seumus feels just a tad nervous, but he wasn't going to show it. He wasn't going to be able to get out of here and take Greg with him. He was going to have to watch out for that mystery woman.
LIAM looks at Greg and smiles. He's glad to see that the young man has made it back seemingly unscathed.
[Gregor] Lilith and I have done further research and found and additive that will help detach the root's chemicals from the receptors in your brain.
Delwyn places a hand on Seumus shoulder. "You'll be ok. I can stay with you if you'd like."
[LIAM] Wyn gave us enough background information to program into the virtual reality program to help jog your memories. YOUR memories...not the ones Horton gave you.
Gregor motions Liam aside
Seumus looks over to Wyn and gives her a hint of a smile. "It's up to you."
Gregor speaks in a hushed tone.
LIAM walks over to Greg.
Delwyn gives his shoulder a gentle squeeze. "I'll stay for a bit to make sure your ok." She gives him a smile. "Just relax now."
[Gregor] I need you to be the muscle here and keep him seated. I will need to be monitoring everything, but I can't do it with his hand around my throat.
Seumus nods and takes a couple of deep breaths to help calm himself.
[LIAM] You got it. Whatever you need.
LIAM says and goes back to stand beside Seumus.
[LIAM] It's going to be okay, son.
LIAM says to Seumus and pats his shoulder.
Seumus thinks, "If they keep saying that, than it's going to be worse than I think."
Delwyn steps away from Seumus to allow Gregor and Liam room to work.
Delwyn grabs a chair and positions it so she can watch what is being done.
Gregor turns on virtual reality program. Opens IVs full bore
[LIAM] Comfortable?
LIAM asks Seumus.
[Gregor] You should start to feel drowsy, just concentrate on the screen.
Seumus nods as he feels his limbs becoming a bit heavy from the sedative in the IVs.
[Gregor] The way Lilith and I set this up, the drugs and the programming should do all the work.
Seumus focuses on the screen before him as he feels the full effects of the drugs. He felt like he was in a dreaming state.
Gregor picks up pen and paper and prepares to write everything of importance that Seumus says. He was going to cure Seumus if it was the last thing he would do.
[LIAM] I'm just glad that you could help. Lillith wasn't sure her knowledge alone was going to be enough.
LIAM says to Greg
[Gregor] Lilith is very astute and I was glad of her help.
[Gregor] Two Immortal brains are better than one Liam.
LIAM gets a look of sadness as he wishes they could have helped his daughter.
Delwyn watches Seumus. She was a bit worried herself. She was afraid the treatment might not work on her former student.
[LIAM] Yes...they are.
LIAM says in comment to Greg's statement
[Gregor] Lilith was the one that helped me isolate the chemical process that separates the poisons from the brain's receptors. I'd recommend her for the AMA Doctor of the year, if Immortality wasn't such a secret.
Seumus watches the images flick by on the screen. All the sound around him was just a dull hum in his ears.
LIAM manages a smile.
LIAM forces himself to stop thinking about things that he cannot change...and to just be glad that they are able to help some of Horton's victims.
[LIAM] She's a good person. Not many would come into a town and get involved with complete strangers like she did.
LIAM watches Seumus closely.
[Gregor] It's a great risk for any Immortal.
Gregor notices the EEG monitors are showing more activity
LIAM follows Greg's gaze.
[LIAM] Is something happening?
[Gregor] The electrical activity in his brain is changing and I recognize the patterns from my EEGs, we are going to get some action here soon.
Seumus feels his muscles begin to stiffen and he begins to struggle in the seat.
[LIAM] You know....what's never been explained to me is what happens to the aneurysms. I understand why they might not reappear but without surgery...what happens to them?
LIAM asks Greg
LIAM places his hand firmly yet comfortingly on Seumus shoulder as he listens to Greg.
Seumus isn't in the room anymore, but back in the lab with Horton. He reaches out and grabs who he thinks is Horton, but he gets a hold of Liam's shirt and pulls Liam toward him.
[Gregor] When the roots chemicals detach from the base of the brain, the Immortal's healing ability takes care of them.
[LIAM] Ahhh. I see.
[Gregor] Where are you Seumus?
LIAM nods in understanding.
LIAM pulls back enough that he can move around but allows Seumus to keep hold of him.
[Gregor] It's almost like the claws of a cat letting go of something.
Delwyn stands up when she sees Seumus grab Liam.
LIAM motions to Wyn that he's alright.
[LIAM] Who are you grabbing, son?
[Seumus] You bloody bastard...I'll kill you!
LIAM asks Seumus.
Seumus cries out in pain. He fights for some control. "Horton," he says through clenched teeth.
LIAM figures it must be Horton or that doctor who Cara Jean told him tortured her the first time they had her.
Seumus releases Liam when he realizes it's Liam and not Horton.
LIAM looks up at Greg.
[Gregor] You're safe Seumus, tell us what you see.
[LIAM] Do we let him play it out? Or what?
Delwyn walks over to Seumus so she can hear what he's saying, but she makes sure to keep out of his reach.
[Gregor] He has to go through this, his adrenaline levels have to spike to create the exact chemical reaction that will combine with the IV medicines and take out the poisons in his head.
[LIAM] Okay.
LIAM says. It wasn't the answer he was hoping for. He hates that the poor kid has to relive what must have been a nightmare.
[LIAM] What is Horton doing to you, Seumus?
LIAM asks in a soft voice.
[Gregor] If he wasn't Immortal, the strain would kill him.
Seumus feels sweat begin to bead on his forehead as he relives what was done to him. "Flaying me..."
LIAM looks up at Greg and mouths the word, "flaying" as a question...not understanding what it means.
Gregor whispers. "Slicing his flesh and peeling it back basically."
Gregor shudders as he remembers his own torture experience.
Seumus jerks in pain and the scene changes. He can see that there is another person on a table nearby, bloodied and half dead.
[LIAM] Is it Horton that is doing this to you? Or someone else?
LIAM remembers being told that Horton was wheelchair bound.
Seumus talks quietly. "No, someone else, but he as in the room...laughing."
[LIAM] Who is doing this to you, son? Do you know who it is?
Delwyn bites her lower lip hearing Seumus. She had seen and been through quite a bit in her life, but she can't imagine the pain Seumus must have felt then.
[Seumus] Sherring...
LIAM glances up at Greg for confirmation.
Gregor nods to Liam
[LIAM] That's the doctor, right?
[Gregor] Yes..it is. But I wouldn't call him a doctor, butcher is more accurate.
[Seumus] I see someone nearby that is laying on a table. I think it's a woman...
LIAM 's head snaps back to Seumus.
[LIAM] A woman? Where, Seumus?
Seumus remembers how he was laid on his back after and the intense pain he felt, but he remembered the woman because she was the last thing he saw before he 'died'.
LIAM is glad Duncan isn't here to hear this.
Gregor begins to tear up, remembering who the woman was.
[LIAM] What does she look like, Seumus? Can you see her face?
[Seumus] She across the room, laying on a table. She had been beaten.
[Gregor] The EEG readings are almost where they need to be for the reaction to take place.
LIAM bites his lip and closes his eyes.
[Seumus] All I can see is red hair. Her face is swollen and black and blue. She looks like she's barely alive...
LIAM has to turn his head away while he fights to keep in control.
Delwyn walks over to Liam and puts a hand on his shoulder. She stands behind him.
[Gregor] The levels are where they need to be..he should be coming out of it.
Gregor waits as the last EEG readings come out.
Seumus can hear Horton's voice telling him over and over again that he was to kill Liam and his picture was continually flashed at him.
LIAM places his hand on hers and opens his tear filled eyes and smiles at her. he whispers, "thank you."
[Seumus] He wanted me to kill you...you are my mission...
LIAM takes a deep breath and returns his attention to Seumus.
Seumus feels drained as his body relaxes again, though his heart felt like it was ready to beat right out of his chest.
Gregor takes a blood sample from Seumus' arm.
[LIAM] It's alright son. There are no more missions. It's over. Horton and Sherring can't hurt you anymore.
[Gregor] You did it Seumus--the chemicals should be leaving your system.
LIAM raises up and looks at Greg.
[LIAM] So what's next?
Gregor shuts off virtual reality monitor.
Seumus nods slowly, just wanting to sleep.
[Gregor] I think a lot of rest, some of Wyn's fantastic tea, and his Immortal healing processes should do the rest.
Gregor starts unhooking Seumus from the monitors. He starts the painstaking process of removing the IV needles. He nods as the holes heal almost instantly.
[LIAM] What about his memories?
Delwyn walks over to Seumus and puts a hand on his shoulder. She whispers to him. "You're ok, now."
[Gregor] They should be restored. He will also have clear recollection, as I do, of all that happened to him.
Seumus closes his eyes and smiles briefly. "I feel like shit."
KACEY paces outside of the house in the spot she had told Monro to meet her. He is already 10 minutes late.
Delwyn smiles a bit. "I know, but you'll feel like yourself in a day or so. It'll pass."
[LIAM] So by your discovery...the process has been shortened considerably?
Delwyn steps away from him and goes upstairs to make some coffee and a tea for Seumus.
[Gregor] Yes it has, not any easier on the individual, but the process has been streamlined thanks to Lilith and I putting our heads together.
KACEY stands staring at the big house across the street. If Monro wasn't going to help her she was going to have to find a way inside herself.
LIAM claps Greg on the back.
[LIAM] You're a good man, Greg Powers. Duncan was right.
[Gregor] Thanks Liam, there was a time when I wasn't so sure.
KACEY decides that Monro has stood her up and says under her breath as she heads back to her bike, "Watch your back, dude. I'll be coming for you next."
KACEY gets on her bike and heads back to her boathouse.
[LIAM] How are you doing, Seumus?
Seumus opens his eyes and looks at Liam. "I've been better."
LIAM smiles warmly at him and gently squeezes his shoulder. Delwyn makes the tea that Seumus needs and starts a new pot of coffee.
[LIAM] It'll get better. Greg's been through it....so he can tell you what to expect in the future....memory wise. Things might seem a bit confusing for a while but it will pass....and everything will become clearer.
Seumus nods.
[Seumus] I do know one thing, I've been a bit of an arse towards you. I apologize for that.
[LIAM] Lillith has a room all set up for you upstairs. Do you feel like going up there so you can get some rest?
LIAM smiles and shakes his head.
[LIAM] Don't give it another thought, son. No harm...no foul.
[Seumus] I was sent here to kill you. Things could have turned a whole lot different than this.
[LIAM] How about that room?
[Seumus] I'll take it. I feel like I just got run over by a blasted tractor trailer.
[LIAM] We can't live by could haves, should haves or what ifs, son. What is important is that they didn't. And you're going to be just fine.
[LIAM] Can you make it upstairs okay? Or do you need some help?
Seumus slowly rises from the chair he was in. The room begins to spin and he ends up back in the chair, unable to keep his balance. "I'll be needing some help."
Gregor grabs Seumus' left arm.
LIAM puts his arm underneath Seumus' armpit to support him.
Seumus gets to his feet.
LIAM helps Seumus upstairs to the room Lillith set up for him.
[LIAM] You get some rest, son. we'll just be downstairs if you need anything. Wyn should be up here with your tea, soon.
Seumus Once they get to the room, he thanks Liam for his help. He gets into bed and quickly falls asleep.
LIAM heads back down to the kitchen.
[LIAM] Do you need any help cleaning up down there, Greg?
[Gregor] I've got it, Liam, just rolling up the last of the wire now.
[LIAM] Okay.
Delwyn pours the boiling water over the herbs and lets them steep. She grabs 3 mugs from the cabinet and pours coffee into each one.
LIAM looks at Wyn and smiles.
Gregor enters the kitchen
[LIAM] I'm going to go into the den and catch the news.
Delwyn looks at Liam and nods. "Ok. Is Seumus all right?"
LIAM announces and leaves the kitchen. He turns on the TV in the den just in time to hear a report of several gunman shredding a house on the upper east side with automatic weapon's fire.
[LIAM] WYN! GET IN HERE!!
LIAM calls out as he grabs his cell phone.
Delwyn jumps hearing Liam yell and quickly walks out of the kitchen and into the den. "What is it?"
Gregor looks over Wyn's shoulder.
LIAM points to the picture on the TV of the "A" frame house destroyed by gunfire.
[LIAM] That's Cara Jean's old house. The one Richie and Cresta are staying in.
LIAM opens his phone and dials the number at Wyn's house. when he doesn't get an answer he shoots Wyn a worried look.
Delwyn looks at the TV and then looks at Liam.
[LIAM] Duncan's not answering the phone at the house.
[LIAM] I'm going over there. You stay here with Seumus.
[Gregor] Need company Liam?
LIAM heads for the hall where he puts on his coat and grabs his sword.
[LIAM] Come on.
LIAM says to Greg and heads out the door.
[Delwyn] Going where?
[LIAM] To your house.
LIAM calls over his shoulder.
Gregor grabs his coat and sword and follows Liam.
Delwyn follows him.
[Delwyn] MacLeod didn't answer, did he?
LIAM gets to his car and unlocks the doors.
[LIAM] No.
Gregor goes to the passenger side and gets in.
[LIAM] I'll call you when I find out what's going on, hon. Stay here. And lock the door.
Delwyn walks over to him. "Be careful."
LIAM gets in and starts the car.
LIAM sticks his head out the window and gives her a quick kiss. Then he takes off heading for Wyn's house.
Delwyn nods and walks back into the house, locking the door behind her.
LIAM turns on the car radio and dials in the local news station to see if they have anything to say about it.
LIAM breaks all speed records getting across town and pulls up in front of Wyn's house. The house is dark...not a light on and Mac's T-Bird is not out front where it usually is parked. He gets out and runs to the front door.
Gregor exits the car and follows Liam
LIAM fumbles for his key, finds it and unlocks the front door. As he pushes it open he calls out, "Duncan? Duncan, you home?"
LIAM Not getting an answer he switches on the hall light and steps into the silent house.
LIAM sakes his head.
[LIAM] He's not here. i don't feel him.
LIAM says to Greg.
[Gregor] I wonder where he is.
[LIAM] Damn! I hope he wasn't at that house.
LIAM heads for Duncan's room and opens the door and turns on the light.
Gregor goes in the opposite direction searching in other areas of the house.
LIAM notices that the closet door is open and that Duncan's clothes are gone so he looks under the bed and sees that Duncan's suitcase is gone as well.
LIAM leaves the room and heads down the hall to the kitchen.
LIAM switches on the kitchen light and, there, on the refrigerator door is a note addressed to Wyn and himself. He removes it and unfolds the paper and reads the note.
Gregor walks quickly back to the kitchen
LIAM breathes a sigh of relief.
[LIAM] It's alright Greg.
LIAM calls out.
[LIAM] He got a hotel room.
LIAM says waving the note.
Gregor enters the kitchen
[Gregor] Oh man--I was worried there for a second.
[LIAM] He says it was time for the baby bird to leave the nest.
[LIAM] I don't believe him, though. I think he found out about what happened at Cara Jean's and wanted to make sure no one came here looking for him.
[Gregor] Sounds like a move MacLeod would make.
[LIAM] Which means that whoever did that to my daughter's house was looking for Duncan. And from the sound of things...they aren't playing fair.
[LIAM] We better get back so Wyn doesn't worry.
LIAM says and turns off the kitchen light and heads for the front door.
[Gregor] Horton doesn't play fair, but we should get back.
Gregor follows Liam
Delwyn goes upstairs to give Seumus his tea. She opens the door to the room and sees that he's asleep She closes the door and goes back down stairs so Seumus can rest.
LIAM locks the house up and gets into the car and starts it up He doesn't notice the black humvie that is parked down the street or the purple Harley that is parked up the street. He pulls away from the house and heads back to Lillith's.
LIAM takes out his cell phone and calls Wyn's.
Delwyn walks back out to the kitchen and hears her cell phone ring. She pulls it out of her pocket and answers. "Liam...is everything ok? Is MacLeod ok?" She knows she sounds worried, which she was.
[LIAM] He's fine, sweetheart. He got a hotel room and I guess has moved out. There was a note on the fridge. And the house is fine. Just the way we left it. We're on our way back. Be there in a few minutes.
[Delwyn] Good.
[Delwyn] Ok...see you in a few minutes then.
Delwyn hangs up her phone.
LIAM hangs up and lets out a sigh.
[LIAM] I'm getting too old for this.
LIAM says to Greg with a smirk.
[Gregor] Age is kind of a moot point for us though--old man?
[LIAM] Yeah....well...be that as it may....I could live the rest of my days in peace and be perfectly happy. The days of looking forward to a new adventure have passed for me.
[LIAM] I don't know....I guess I'm just feeling a lot older since losing my daughter. She was suppose to outlive me. A parent should never out live their children.
[Gregor] We'll get her back Liam--and we'll deprogram her.
LIAM realizes that Greg doesn't know.
[LIAM] She's dead, Greg. Horton killed her.
[LIAM] I guess you were being programmed so you didn't know.
Gregor doubles over. "Oh my God Liam, with all this stuff going on, I didn't realize what had actually happened."
[LIAM] It's okay, son. You've had your own nightmare to deal with.
LIAM puts his hand on Greg's back in comfort.
[Gregor] When we find Horton, leave me a piece or two when you're done will you?
[LIAM] I'll try...but no promises. I doubt Duncan will leave anything for any of us.
[LIAM] Are you alright? You look a little pale.
[Gregor] Before they programmed us, Cara and I held each other up--we became fast friends.
[Gregor] This just hit me a little hard that's all.
Delwyn puts the tea she made in the frig so she can heat it up and give it to Seumus later on.
LIAM gives Greg's shoulder a squeeze.
[LIAM] I'm sorry you had to find out like this. I didn't know you knew my daughter.
[Gregor] I didn't know who she was to you, we were just in an awful situation. They say that people forge bonds in adversity.
[LIAM] Yes...that's very true. I'm glad that she had someone so she didn't feel she was all alone.
[LIAM] Duncan will be glad, too.
[Gregor] I think we need to work on contacting Mac so we can be sure he is okay.
LIAM nods.
[LIAM] If I know my son-in-law...he probably got a room at the Seacouver Hyatt.
[LIAM] I'm just wondering about the kids.
[Gregor] Wyn mentioned that Richie and Cresta were around. Where would they go?
[LIAM] Maybe they are with Duncan.
LIAM pulls up in front of Lillith's house and gets out of the car.
LIAM waits until Greg gets out and locks the doors and heads for the front door.
Gregor follows Liam into the house.
[LIAM] Wyn?
LIAM calls out.
LIAM heads for the library where he takes the phone book out of the desk drawer and looks up a number.
LIAM dials the number to the Seacouver Hyatt.
Delwyn walks out of the kitchen and goes to the library.
[LIAM] Yes....do you have a Duncan MacLeod registered?.....Can you ring his room please?....Thank you.
LIAM waits for a few seconds as the phone to Duncan's room rings.
LIAM looks over the phone at Greg and Wyn and whispers, "I was right. He's at the Hyatt."
[Gregor] Does he know where Cresta and Richie are?
[LIAM] Duncan...it's Liam. Are you alright? We saw on the news about the house.......Yeah...well....I know why you're there but that's not the issue. Are you sure you're alright?.....What about the kids?.......That's good. Alright I'll let you get back to sleep.....Goodnight.
LIAM hangs up, sighs in relief and looks at Greg and Wyn and smiles.
[LIAM] He's fine. And the kids are hiding out at some friend of Richie's. They weren't home when it happened but they showed up while it was going on and snuck away. They went straight to Duncan.
[Gregor] Whew
[LIAM] So far they haven't figured out exactly who it was but he thinks it is somehow connected to Horton
Delwyn leans against the wall and sighs with relief.
LIAM leans wearily against the desk.
[LIAM] Like I said....I'm getting too old for this stuff. And getting older by the minute.
LIAM exhaustion is beginning to show on his face.
Delwyn wants to laugh, being the oldest one in the whole house, but she doesn't. "Why don't you go get some sleep and I'll look after Seumus."
LIAM smiles at Wyn and nods.
[Gregor] I can camp out here on the couch for a while.
[LIAM] I think I will do just that. Good night Greg. Thanks for going with me.
Delwyn looks at Gregor. "You should go get some sleep as well."
[Gregor] Night old man.
Gregor smiles
LIAM walks up to Wyn and gives her a kiss.
[LIAM] Good night my lady.
Delwyn smiles. "Good night and sleep well."
[Gregor] Good night Wyn
Gregor heads for the den and lays on the couch.
Delwyn walks out of the library and back to the kitchen to get some coffee to accompany her long night.
LIAM heads upstairs to the guest room that he and Wyn have been staying in and lays on the bed without undressing and falls right to sleep.
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Post by cj on Dec 1, 2007 0:46:17 GMT -5
KACEY sits on her couch watching TV as she eats a hamburger she got from a fast food restaurant on her way back from her failed meeting with Monro. The news has just come on and their lead story is about a local house that was riddled with bullets when several gunmen opened fire on the home early morning. "There was no one home at the time of the shooting," the reporter is saying. "But neighbors said they saw two black military style humvies leave the driveway of the house right after they heard the shots. Police have no clues as to who the gunmen were or why they might possibly have opened fire on the house or what possible motive they might have had to kill the residents of the house. Upon investigation I found out that the house and surrounding property's owner is listed as Cara Jean Nichols who I further learned is now married to a prominent entrepreneur, Duncan MacLeod. neither Mrs. or Mr. MacLeod have been located for comment. This is Randi McFarland with KCLA TV, Seacouver Washington, reporting. Back to you in the studio."
KACEY realizes that she is sitting on the edge of the couch. The hairs on the back of her neck and arms are standing up and a cold chill runs down her spine. Black humvies are the vehicles used by Horton's extraction teams. If there is an extraction team in Seacouver...and everything points to the fact that there is....and if they are targeting a house that belongs to MacLeod's dead wife...then they are most likely there to do her job....or she is the job. She knew Horton would be pissed that she didn't return as he had ordered even though she wanted to finish the job she started but she never thought he would have thought her to be a traitor and a liability like those other 2 losers. She gets up and starts to pace the floor, trying to think what to do. If she went back now maybe she could smooth things over with him. But she knows that that is only wishful thinking and that if she shows her face in Otterburg she's dead meat. Basically her life in Otterburg...her job and everything she knows is over. She has but one option....run.
KACEY heads upstairs and hurriedly packs what she can fit into one duffel bag and a backpack, grabs her sword and handgun and leaves the boathouse. She gets on her bike and kick starts it then looks around to see if she might be under survey lance Horton arranged for this place so the team would have her location, so it would just be a matter of time before they showed up. Not seeing anything suspicious she heads out of the parking area ad down the road that followed the beach front. She knows no one in Seacouver and has no idea where she can go. Then she gets an idea. There is one person she knows in this town and he just so happens to be someone who would have the resources to hide her. She turns her bike off of the frontage road and heads into the city....and Joe's Bar. She is looking for Dragon Swift.
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