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Post by cj on Jan 2, 2008 0:37:07 GMT -5
Somewhere on the East coast
The room is dark, lit by a single monitor that comes from a laptop perched on a coffee table. The laptop is humming away while it flashes pictures of various people from a database. The background from the database has a symbol of a bird with circle of dots around it, incased in another circle.
The pictures flash across the screen so quickly that only the faintest glimpse of a face can be seen. After a moment the laptop chirps that it is done. Twelve names accompanied by twelve pictures and locations line up on the screen.
A pair of intense eyes scan the contents of the monitor. In his hand he holds two die, which he plays with while he reads the names. He rubs them against each other and shakes them in his hand as he reads. Then his hand goes above the coffee table and with a flick of his wrist the die fly. One reads 2 while the other 4. The smoldering eyes scan down the page of names until they come to the name that is number 6: Andrea Henson, currently in Los Angeles. The eyes narrow, grab the die in his hand and shut the laptop with a resounding snap.
Los Angeles
The night is warm as a lone figure makes his way through the bustling people that are never ending in the City of Angels. Although the night is warm, the man has a long trench coat that he has tightly pulled around himself. He walks as if on a mission, not making eye contact with anyone on the street.
The man’s name is Clayton Reid. He stands just over six feet tall. He has handsome features, with short almost shaggy black hair, and dark blue piercing eyes. He walks with his hands shoved down deep in his trench coat as he makes his way back toward his hotel. He can’t help but note the weight of the sword that he has tightly secured under the concealing coat. He isn’t quite sure that he’ll ever get used to it, the constant weight and the motion of the tip tapping lightly on his leg as he moves…but he isn’t going to be caught without it…not ever.
He takes a right and glares at a man that accidentally bumps into him, and then keeps walking. Clayton is thirty eight years old…at least he looks thirty eight. Truth be told he is about to turn forty in a couple of weeks, but he’ll look thirty eight forever. That still is taking a lot of getting used to for him. He had been with an organization called The Watchers since he was twenty years old. It just happened to be one of those ‘wrong place, wrong time’ situations. He was in New York and had been walking home late one night when he had witnessed a scuffle in a deserted alley. He usually wasn’t one to stick his nose in other people’s business, but he’d been the recent target for a mugging himself and felt like a bit of payback. He’d run up to the fight, and witnessed two things: 1) The fight was with swords, not fists, and 2) It was just being finished as he approached. He watched in awe as the victor stood over the loser and with one fell swoop of his sword beheaded the kneeling man. If that wasn’t enough (although his jaw had dropped to about his chest by this point) a strange blue lightening suddenly appeared all around them, followed by miniature explosions. When he had finally been able to blink and have control over his frozen muscles his first impulse was to turn tail and run before the winner saw him and did the same thing to him.
The following two weeks he tried to figure out exactly what had happened. He made phone calls, he wrote the papers, and he searched library records, but was unable to get a response that wasn’t someone either laughing in his face or hanging up on him. Finally when he was at a complete loss of what he should do next, there came a knock on his apartment door. He opened the door and his life changed forever. The man at the door introduced himself as Samuel Masters and offered an explanation for the events two weeks earlier. He told Clayton about the Watchers, immortals and the Game…then came the offer to join them.
Clayton smiles thinly to himself as he continues walking toward his hotel. The crowds are thinning now as he reaches the undesirable part of town where he is staying. His hotel is a fleabag joint, but he doesn’t mind. He is trying to keep a low profile. He is on a mission across the world. Besides…this is where she is staying.
His hand strays to feel the hilt of his sword from his pocket. He is now one of the few who he’d been assigned to watch for the past twenty years, one who he’d grown to hate. How many others were out there he didn’t know. He is absolutely sure that The Watchers are all immortals as well…how else would they know so much about The Game? He is making it his personal mission to get rid of them…one by one.
He glowers at the door to his room and fumbles for his key just as another person is juggling an arm full of bags that practically walks right into him. Her bags go every which way, and his key is lost in the confusion. He turns to glare at the woman, who in turn offers him an apologetic smile. It only takes him the briefest of moments to realize that she is the one he is after. Andrea. He smiles inwardly at how easy she is making this for him.
They both bend down to get their respective items. The woman chats amiably as she grabs the scattered contents of her bags, but Clayton tunes her out for the most part. He makes the appropriate facial expressions, but he doesn’t deem her chatter important enough to reply. He can only concentrate on the mission at hand, and what he is about to do.
The woman, Andrea, finds his keys in the scuffle and hands them back to him. Clayton glances down at her wrist and smirks as he sees the Watcher’s symbol. She doesn’t even try to hide it. His at least is covered by the sleeve of his jacket, and then a watch and a thick braided band besides. He isn’t stupid.
“Thank you.” Clayton says, accepting the keys from her as they both stand. He holds out his hand. “Let me help with your bags.” Before she can refuse he takes one of the heavy paper bags out of her arms and smiles as innocently as he can manage toward her. “Which room is yours?” He asks politely.
“I’m just down this way. I really appreciate your help!” Andrea says, smiling at him gratefully as she fumbles for her own keys with her free hand. “You just don’t meet many helpful strangers in LA anymore!” She finally finds her keys, and leads him toward the room that is two down from his.
He follows gamely, and surveys the parking lot, wondering which of the cars would be hers.
She sticks the key in the slot of her door, but is suddenly distracted by the door a few doors down from hers opening and closing. She jangles her keys in the lock as if they are stuck as she observes the woman who is chatting on her cell phone before getting into her car and driving away. “Thanks so much, but I really must dash!” Andrea says to Clayton as she shoves her door open, and practically throws her bag inside. She grabs Clayton’s bag and throws it inside as well. Not bothering to step inside she closes the door and locks it again. “We should get together sometime, maybe over a cup of coffee!” She shouts over her shoulder as she adjusts the strap of her purse, and dashes toward a waiting car.
“I’d like that.” Clayton replies toward her with a predatory smile as he watches her get into a 2003 Malibu, and drive off. “…a lot.”
* * *
It is close to 2 AM, and Clayton feels exhilarated. He sits at the table of his hotel room, with no sounds to distract him, and no lights save his laptop monitor. The screen shows the smiling face of Andrea, staring out at him as he works on his little project. He tweaks a couple of wires on the bomb that he’d constructed before he finally sets it aside with a satisfied sigh of approval. He glances toward the shades of the window, waiting for the lights of her car to drive by and show that she’s returned. He will not fail. He glares at the monitor where Andrea’s face smiles at him, before he glances down at his wrist where he’d rolled up his sleeve to expose his Watcher tattoo.
It isn’t until almost a quarter to three that Clayton finally sees the tell-tale sign that his soon to be dead immortal neighbor is home. He quickly goes to the shades and pulls them down far enough to observe his intended target. He stands there quietly as she gets out from her car and tucks a camera into her purse as she goes. She looks exhausted. She pulls a hand through her slightly disheveled hair, locks her car then walks toward her room. After a moment she is gone from sight.
Clayton smiles to himself as he lets go of the blinds and they snaps back into place. He can’t help but feel a bit smug about what he is about to do. He will rid the world of immortals himself, and Andrea is just another along the way. He quickly reaches his table and the small bomb that he has created, and goes outside. He looks quickly toward Andrea’s window and sees that all of her lights are off. She looks tired enough to have gone straight to bed and fallen asleep quickly. That will work to his advantage. He reaches her car, jimmies the lock and gets to work.
* * *
Knock knock knock. Pause. Knock knock knock. Clayton carefully balances two cups of steaming coffee in insulated glasses as he waits for Andrea to answer her door. Impatiently he knocks again. After a moment the door opens and Andrea stands there, looking half asleep as she yawns loudly. “Hello.” Clayton says cheerfully toward her. “It’s me…Clayton. Remember? We met yesterday. You mentioned that we should have a cup of coffee together sometime, and since I’m leaving town later this afternoon I thought there is no time like the present.” He smiles toward her and holds up a cup of coffee as if it were a peace offering. He cocks his head to the side, as if he were confused. “Did I wake you? I’m sorry, it’s past 9…I thought you’d be awake by now.”
“Clayton…hi.” Andrea says as she muffles a yawn, and tightens the belt of her robe a bit subconsciously. She squints past his shoulder. “It’s past 9 already?” She yawns again and accepts the coffee. “Thank you.” She says and takes a sip.
“So…how about breakfast? You’re the first person that I’ve met in LA that’s so much as said a word to me; I know that I’ll regret it for the rest of my life if I let a beautiful young woman pass through my life without so much as buying her breakfast.” Clayton smiles at her in the most enticing way he knows how.
Andrea sizes up the handsome man in front of her. She can’t help but feel a slight attraction toward him. He has a powerful aura about him, and he is the ‘tall dark and handsome’ that every girl tells herself she’ll fall for someday. If he really is leaving town later this afternoon, she would be missing a golden opportunity. All of these thoughts fly through her mind in a matter of a second before she smiles and nods back at him, the sleepiness leaving her features. “Give me a moment to wear something that’s a little less robe-like…and I’d love to.” She takes one more sip of coffee, smiles again then disappears behind her hotel door.
A sense of power hits Clayton then. His plan is about to follow through. He waits impatiently for her to reappear from behind her door. He still wears his trench coat from the day before. His mind retraces everything in his room. Everything is packed and ready to go. He’d wiped every surface free of his finger prints. Everything is going according to plan. He is startled out of his thoughts as Andrea appears. He puts on his “friendly” face. “Would you mind driving? I hate to ask, but my car is in the shop. I wanted to have it looked at before I took off this afternoon. You can never be too careful when making a long distance road trip.”
“Not a problem.” Andrea says and digs her keys out of her purse and leads the way to her Malibu. She smiles at Clayton as he moves ahead of her and opens the driver’s side door for her to get in. He holds the door open for her as she slides in, then he starts to pat his pockets as if he’s forgotten something. He looks a bit worried as he glances down at her.
“I seem to have forgotten my wallet in my room. Warm up the engine, I’ll be back in a flash.” He flashes her another flirtatious smile before he shuts the driver’s side door. He puts up his finger and mouths ‘one second’ toward her before dashing toward his room, hoping to make it there before the fireworks start. He just barely closes the door behind him when he hears her engine spur to life, and a deafening explosion following it. He leans against the closed door for a moment, having a feeling of euphoria that everything has gone exactly as planned.
Clayton quickly grabs his bags that are stashed near the door. He grabs everything in a flourish and slips out of his room. He’d completed the checkout process right before knocking on Andrea’s door. He couldn’t even remember the fake name that he’d given the clerk. He glances toward the burning car that is almost directly in front of him and hears a couple of car alarms react to the explosion. A couple of voices are raised in alarm, but no one has made it to the scene yet. He quickly rounds the corner of the complex and goes to the back alley where his truck is parked. After he throws his belongings in the passenger seat next to him he starts the engine, and slowly pulls out into the street, whistling slightly to himself as if he doesn’t have a care in the world.
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Post by cj on Jan 9, 2008 22:12:27 GMT -5
January 2008, FBI Headquarters Field Agent Cait Ryce makes her way across the plaza toward the FBI Headquarters, her sunglasses perching precariously on the edge of her nose. Glancing down at her watch, she exhales in relief on two accounts...1, she is on time and 2, the Watchers had finally decided to enter the 21st century and forgo the need to “brand” their field agents with an obvious tattoo that told most of the world that something was “different” about the person who bore it. The fact that in this day and age, a professional woman was practically banned from any type of marking that showed in public had been a moot point to the centuries, nay...millennium of tradition the Watchers held regarding their sacred “mark” and solemn vow of “To observe and record but not interfere.” but in the end, the idea had won out. She had suggested lightly for a secret handshake, yodel or dance...all suggestions being met with disdained looks.
“Ass Puckers” Cait thinks to herself as she moves past the FBI front desk toward the check in point where she and her bag/shoulder pack is scanned, searched, checked and finally cleared, her ID and weapon identified and returned to her.
“Wait! Wait! Hold that elevator!” she calls out as she runs toward an already bursting to capacity elevator, catching the eye of the man in front who launches himself at the “Open” button long enough for her to squeeze in.
“Thank you.” she mouths as she grins a bit sheepishly. The man apologizes instead taking advantage of the tight quarters to lean against her. Cait sighs and smiles at him.
She should have known her boss was up to something when he appeared at her desk two days earlier “I need my “Secret Weapon” she remembers him smirking, crooking a finger towards her.
In Cait Ryce anyone could find anything in her to connect with. A daughter, a sister, a best friend, the girl next door, your first crush or the one that got away...Cait combined a mixture of perky, sexy and innocent mingled together with sharp observation, quick wit and attention to detail...precisely the thing her boss wanted to disarm and charm the certain FBI Agent he knew they had to deal with. Agent Matthew McCormick was not going to take having his case pulled from him, well and sending a guy in would only further the “pissing match” that no doubt would ensue. A Southerner, and therefore consummate gentleman, McCormick might be a bit more agreeable if the blonde haired, blue eyed Agent Ryce broke the news to him. The fact that the Watchers were also dealing with an immortal made it even tricker...especially since the case he was now investigating dealt with the untimely demise of Watchers. The sooner they snatched this away from the immortal, the more comfortable the higher ups at Watcher HQ would feel.
Finding the correct Department, Cait enters the busy room of agents, computers and telephones. Finally stopping someone she asks for Matthew McCormick and the person in passing points to a desk in the back. Moving through the crowd Cait finally finds Matthew’s desk, Agent McCormick hunched over a pile of paperwork.“This has got to be one of the nicest name plates I have ever seen” Cait says picking up the brass and mahogany name plate on the desk. “I mean...when I got my desk, I had to use a Sharpie and write my name and put tape over it and then, someone spilled coffee and I had to make a new one but this one...” Cait notices the finger prints she just put on the brass and wipes in clean on the elbow of her blazer. Holding out her hand she grins. "Agent Cait Ryce....I called? Several times?"
[Matthew] Is from a tree from my home in Louisiana Mathew McCormick, nice to meet you.
Cait picks it up and rubs it cleaner and sets it down quickly. "And...nice to meet you..." she says extending her hand
Matthew smiles up at her, "I'm so glad you approve." He takes her hand and shakes it. "what can I do for you?"
Cait takes a beat to take in the immortal before her. She had pulled his file, but damn...he was much cuter in person. Clearing her throat she tries to get back on track. "As I said...I had called...several times..." She stops and looks at one of the Post It notes on his desk Picking it up she looks at it, her face scrunches up in exasperation. "Yah...see? This is me...Agg...Ant....Gnt....Rice...Rice...I told them it was R-Y-C-E" Nodding she puts the Post It back down. "No wonder you didn't call me back..."
[Matthew] Yes, but I've been a little busy trying catch killers so I don't always have time to pick up a phone.
Cait nods in agreement and looks around, pulling a chair from a nearby desk
[Matthew] Have a seat.
[Cait] I totally understand what you mean...which is why you are probably not going to be too happy when I say what I have to say...
[Matthew] and that is?
Cait looks sheepishly at the seat she is in. Pushing aside the question about if she took someone's chair, Cait leans forward
[Cait] See...the thing is Agent McCormick...and...believe me...I've had this happen to me dozen of times...but...someone in my Department...Oh, I work for Homeland Security...talked to someone in your Department and decided that one the cases assigned to you...would probably be more up our alley...
Nodding in sympathy, Cait continues
[Cait] And I KNOW...you probably have been running around doing tons of overtime and unbelievable amounts of leg work...I mean...I had a case that I literally went through two pairs of shoes on...
Cait begins to fish through her black leather shoulder bag
[Cait] But...but the thing is...
[Matthew] Get to the point, Mathew thought.
Cait pauses and looks up at Matthew and smiles and goes back to digging into her purse
[Cait] Why is it that everything you need sinks to the bottom? I guess I should probably start there to begin...ahh...here it is...
Cait produces a paper and hands it to Matthew
[Cait] Your boss signed over the Bombing case to our Department...
Cait sits back and watches Matthew
After Matthew reads the paper, he gets a dark expression on his face.
[Cait] I was hoping that we could have talked before I showed up so that you could have had everything collected and...it...wouldn't be such a shock but...
Cait pauses, recognizing that look
[Matthew] So let me get this straight, Agent Ryce, you come waltzing into my department to take a case away from me that I have been working on for weeks?
Cait looks somewhat affronted and taken aback
[Matthew] May I ask why the DHS wants my case?
[Cait] I hardly think I waltzed in here...I left enough messages for you to contact me...and in the long run...I'm not taking away... Cait stops at his question and sets a look at Matthew
[Cait] Have you established a motive, reason or connection why these killing should be considered the work of a "Serial Killer"? Has this person contacted d the Media seeking attention? Is he "Mission Oriented" or have you established that fact? Is there a connection between any of the victims? A pattern?
[Matthew] I have been specializing in these types of cases for a long time and I know what a serial killer is like when I see one.
[Cait] My SWAG on this one, Agent McCormick is that Bombs equal Terrorism in post 9/11 America...
If she only knew the real connection Matthew suspected about this killer and himself.
[Matthew] With the same pattern, I don't think so, it says serial killer to me.
[Cait] And though I haven't watched "Silence of the Lambs" enough...Serial Killers aren't really the types to leave pieces only big enough to be swept into envelopes. You have your "Thrill Seeker"...playing the cops and trying to outsmart them...have you received any notes from the killer, taunting you?
[Matthew] Silence of the Lambs, that's "cute" Maybe you should rent a copy and then you might learn something.
[Cait] You have your "Mission Oriented"...Your Jack the Rippers...and as I said unless you've established a connection then he doesn't fall into that category... You have your "Power/Control freaks...who enjoy their victims fear and pain...not much of that going on in an explosion. Or a guy who takes Souvenirs..any parts missing...that you can tell?
[Matthew] I can't get into specifics but trust me on this, now why do you really want this case?
Cait leans forward and smiles, but it's not flirty or silly
[Cait] I'm not your enemy, Agent McCormick...we both work for the same team... I'm just doing what my Superiors told me...just like you have to as well...
[Matthew] Really, he smiles back "and just who might that be?"
Cait exhales and produces a card with the name of the Head of Homeland Security
[Cait] You want to call him? I'll wait... Better yet...call your boss...since he signed the paper too...
Matthew is really enjoying this on some level, it's rare that he meets someone he can match wits with.
Cait picks up the name plate and looks at the wood again
[Matthew] Do what you want but trust me, in the end you will need my help in this.
[Cait] I gotta get me one of these...what kind of wood did you say it was?
[Matthew] Oak
Cait's eyes dance at Matthew's words as she puts the name down
[Cait] Believe me, Agent McCormick...if I have any questions at all...you will be the person I come to...
[Matthew] Agent Ryce, have you ever dealt with a serial killer before?
Cait smiles again
[Cait] Agent McCormick...you'd be surprised what I've dealt with...
[Matthew] I'm sure I would but you will be surprised what this person is capable of. You better prepare yourself.
[Cait] I never underestimate the cruelty or perversion of the human mind...despite what you take in as a "fresh faced" kid...
“She has no idea how fresh she is compared to me...or perhaps this killer,” Matthew thinks to himself but keeps quiet.
[Cait] And the fact that I'm rarely if ever surprised keeps me constantly prepared...
Cait looks away for a moment the "Wonderful World of Watchers and the Immortals they observe" plays in her mind
[Matthew] I hope so, for you sake Agent Ryce.
[Cait] Your concern is touching and a credit to the whole "Department Cooperation" movement...
[Matthew] As I see it, there isn't a lot of "cooperation" around here.
Cait shrugs "I'm trying to be as understanding as possible, Agent McCormick...you and are the pawns in this game...no reason to snipe at each other..."
[Matthew] Well, I hope you get "bomber" Agent Ryce."
[Cait] So...I can assume that all information pertaining to the Bombing cases will be transferred to the address on the back of the card I gave you?
Matthew thinks to himself, “ but if she thinks this is over, she doesn't know me very well.”
Cait stands as she picks up her bag
[Matthew] you'll get everything you need.
Cait extends her hand "No hard feelings?"
[Matthew] Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a killer to catch.
Cait cocks her head to the side "Funny...so do I..."
"None at all", Matthew says while shaking her hand.
[Matthew] Good Luck with that.
"You as well..." Cait nods before turning away.
Matthew thinks to himself, “I wonder if she realizes that I am not giving up on this case? “
As Cait walks down the aisle she passes a secretary with a stack of files teetering on the brink and Cait smiles to herself. Agent McCormick is about to be buried in a sea of cases and files piled so high it will make Paris Hilton's Wedding Cake look like a Ho Ho. "Good Luck with that..McCormick" she smiles to herself as she leaves the office. Clearing the building, Cait pulls her cellphone and makes a call.
[Cait] Yah...Yah...well...what do YOU think? Of course he wasn't happy..
Turning to regard the building Cait squints up to the floor of McCormick's office
“She'll need my help if this killer is immortal.,” Matthew says aloud to his empty office.
[Cait] Do I think he's going to drop it? Hell no...I told you that before I came...he's a Southerner...he's on the scent and he's not going to give up that easy...though that pile of busy work should dampen his spirits a bit...and his Boss leaning on him...
"But..." Cait looks at the building again and smiles "I don't think we've heard the last of McCormick yet...it's going to have to be all about redirect if we want to keep him clear of the Watchers..."
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Post by cj on Jan 9, 2008 22:23:52 GMT -5
The part of Joe Dawson is temporarily being understudied. JOE is sitting at a table near the bar with Mike and Justin, another Watcher friend of Joe's. The three men are enjoying a beer and some light hearted conversation.
Peggy pulls her van into the parking lot of her Uncle Joe's bar, parks and heads inside.
JOE looks up when the light from outside streams through the open door. He smiles seeing his God daughter and waves her over.
Mike looks up and grins at Peggy as she approaches them.[Mike] Hey...Oaks. How's retired life? [Peggy] What retired? Peggy says with a smirk.[Peggy] I think I work harder out of the field than I did in it. [Mike] Maybe you need to complain to your boss about that. You have rights you know. Mike says jokingly.[Justin] Rights? We have rights? Justin says looking around.[Peggy] Don't believe everything you hear, Justin. [Mike] Yeah. Well....when we get a Union Rep to speak for us....we'll have all kinds of rights and benefits. Justin rolls his eyes.[Justin] Yeah? And what Union would that be? I seriously doubt we'd qualify to join the Teamsters. [Mike] Yeah....well.....you really should complain to your boss about being over worked, Oaks. Mike continues to joke.[Peggy] Yeah....like my boss would listen. Peggy says and glances over at Joe and winks.[Joe] Besides....today is definitely NOT complain to the boss day. JOE chuckles.[Peggy] Uncle Joe....can I talk to you in your office? Peggy asks looking at Joe very seriously.
JOE looks up at Peggy and sees the seriousness in her eyes.[Joe] Sure. JOE says and gets to his feet, excusing himself from the table.[Mike] Oh...oh. What did you do now, Dawson? Mike chuckles.
Peggy heads for her uncle's office.
JOE follows Peggy into his office and closes the door
Peggy takes a seat on Joe's couch.
JOE walks over and leans against his desk, shoving his hands into his pants pockets.[Joe] So? What's up? [Peggy] I just found out that I lost my trainee. Peggy says trying to remain calm and business like.
Joe looks at Peggy and smiles.[Joe] Graduated one...huh? Peggy shakes her head.[Peggy] No. She's dead. Peggy says matter of factly.[Joe] What???! Joe says dumbfounded.
Peggy nods.[Peggy] I got the call just a little while ago. She had gone down to Los Angeles on assignment....her first solo and was supposed to be back 3 days ago. When I didn't hear from her I called the office in San Fransisco to see if they had heard from her and they ran a trace. Her car blew up this morning outside of the hotel she was staying in. Joe stares at Peggy in shock.[Joe] Blew up? What do you mean...blew up? [Peggy] They found an explosive device mounted underneath what was left of her car. [Joe] My God! Joe exclaims.[Peggy]And that's not all, Uncle Joe. Peggy says sitting forward on the couch.[Peggy] I made a couple of calls and found out that there have been others that have died in similar ways over the last year. Clayton outside Joe's crawls on his belly underneath Peggy's parked van. He scurries forward with a look of intense concentration on his face as he sets to work putting the bomb in place. He rolls over onto his back underneath the engine. He carefully places the bomb on his stomach then digs out a squashed roll of duct tape and went to work in securing a spot for the car bomb. Clayton remembers how Peggy came to be his next victim. After Andrea's bomb had gone off in LA, he'd made himself scarce, holing up in a motel down in San Diego. It had been a rainy night, suited his mood perfectly. He'd sat in the dark as he usually did when his mind was overrun with dark thoughts. He'd ceremoniously lifted the top of his laptop and brought up the watcher's screen. Thunder boomed outside, but he payed it no heed.
Joe rubs his hand across his face.[Joe] How many? [Peggy] 11 counting Renee. [Joe] 11??!! Joe quickly turns on his computer monitor.
Clayton eyes were fixed on the screen. He opened his own special program and clicked 'RANDOM'. The program went to work and names along with pictures and locations began to fill the screen. His eyes watched closely as every new line came across the screen. He swallowed in anticipation. He was ready for his next victim to meet their fate. The rain poured down, and thunder boomed in the sky and finally 12 names of active Watchers was before him. He withdrew his special pair of dice, red ones with white dots and ran them through his fingers as he read the names.[Peggy] Don't bother. There's nothing in the database. Everyone of those who have been killed are still showing as either being on assignment or retired. [Joe] This is unbelievable. Joe mutters.
Clayton turned the dice over and over in his hand, rubbing them together, anticipating his next kill. This was the thrill of it for him. The fact that the next person to die was random, it all depended on how the dice fell. 11 would live, 1 would die...who would it be? He took a deep indrawn breath and held it as he cast the dice onto the scarred wooden end table before him. The dice seemed to roll and tumble over each other in slow motion as he watched in anticipation. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity they rolled to a stop. The dice read 3 and 7. Releasing his held breath, his eyes scanned from the first name down to the tenth name, and he saw the name: Peggy Oaks. She would be the next to die. With a purely predatory grin, Clayton grabbed the dice with a swipe of his hand and closed his computer monitor.[Joe] Who.... Joe starts to say.
Peggy cuts him off by taking a small notebook out of her purse and opening it.[Peggy] Lance Griffin was killed in November of 2006....Charles Anthony in February 2007.... [Joe] Wait. Hang on. Joe takes out a piece of paper and starts writing down the names Peggy is reading off.[Joe] Who was Lance's assignment? Thunder boomed all around Clayton as he threw together his meager belongings. He could make Seacouver in two days, and it would give him a chance to work out his strategy and observe Peggy. He was on the road within fifteen minutes. His mind set on the events to come. [Peggy] CJ's dad...Liam O'Dell. Joe jots it down.[Joe] And Charles? [Peggy] Jeffery Red Sun. Clayton blinks away the memory of his newest soon-to-be victim and concentrates on the job at hand. He secures the bomb tightly to the underside of the van's engine. With a few tweaks here and there he gives the duct tape a light pat, then pauses to listen to any commotion around him. He hears nothing, and after a moment flips back over onto his belly and speed crawls from under the van. He quickly gets to his feet, dusts off his pants and goes on his way as if he was just wandering by.[Joe] Ok. Go on. [Peggy] Ricco Belson in march 2007..... Joe looks up.[Joe] Ricco? Oh, man. Damn it! [Peggy] I take it you knew him? [Joe] Yeah. We went through the academy together. Joe gets a sad look on his face.[Joe] Just give me your list. Joe holds out his hand.
Peggy shakes her head.[Peggy] I need it. I'll copy it for you, though. [Joe] What do you need it for? [Peggy] I'm going to try and find out what the Hell is going on. [Joe] Ummm....no you're not, young lady. Leave that stuff to the tribunal. they have special investigators to do that. You don't need to get in their way. [Peggy] I think that I have been around long enough to be able to investigate without getting in anyone's way. Peggy says defensively.[Joe] Absolutely not. Joe says adamantly
Peggy stuffs the notebook back in her purse and gets to her feet.[Peggy] I'm going to do my job....whether you like it or not, uncle Joe. I can't just sit around and do nothing. 11. 11 innocent people. Something has to be done. [Joe] Peggy Anne Oaks.....you stay out of it. You have no idea what you might be getting yourself into and you're in no shape to be playing detective. It's out of the question. Peggy glares at her Godfather. She knows that in his current frame of mind there'll be no reasoning with him. besides....he is starting to piss her off with his overly protective attitude.[Peggy] Fine. Peggy says simply and turns to leave.
Clayton walks across the street as if he doesn't have a care in the world, and settles into a car that he'd stolen earlier for just this purpose.
Joe looks at Peggy and suspects that she has given in too easily.[Joe] I mean it, Peggy If I catch wind that you have..... [Peggy] I said Ok Don't beat it into the ground, Uncle Joe. I'm not a kid. I haven't been for some time. Peggy starts heading for the door of his office.[Peggy] I have a physical therapy appointment in an hour and I have to pick up my dry cleaning so I'll see you later. Joe gets up and starts after her.[Joe] Peggy? Stop. Wait. I know what you're up to. Joe says as he tries to catch up to his God-daughter.
Clayton settles back in the driver's seat, and places his hands behind his head. He smiles, ready for the show to begin [Joe] Peggy Oaks....get back here, young lady. JOE demands and tries to catch up to her.
Peggy ignores her Godfather and marches deliberately toward the door of the bar.
Mike hears Joe's demand and watches Peggy as she hurries past the table.
Justin looks up just as Peggy passes by him and reaches out to try and grab her hand to stop her so that Dawson can catch up to her.
Peggy dodges Justin's hand and hurries past him.[Joe] Peggy Anne Oaks.....hold on. Stop! JOE struggles to catch up to her.[Mike] I'd say someone is a bit pissed about something. Mike says to Justin and nods toward Peggy.[Justin] Ya think? Justin chuckles. He takes $5 out of his pants pocket and lays it in the center of the table and looks at Mike mischievously.[Justin] Five bucks says Dawson catches her before she hits the parking lot. Mike looks at Justin curiously.[Mike] You're kidding....right? Justin shakes his head.[Justin] Absolutely not. It's an even match. They both use a cane.....it's not like one is a track runner. Mike shakes his head and looks after Peggy. She did have a good sized lead on Joe, though. He digs $5 out of his pocket and lays it on top of Justin's.[Mike] Alright, smart ass.....you're on. Peggy gets to the door of the bar way ahead of Joe and throws the door open and hurries out into the sunlight.[Joe] God dammit, Peggy! Get back here. JOE growls as he tries to quicken his pace.
Peggy turns the corner of the building and into the parking lot. With each step she becomes madder and madder. She almost sprints the last few yards to her van. She gets in, starts the engine and backs out of the parking place.
JOE explodes out of the bar and heads for the parking lot. He hears the unmistakable sound of Peggy's mufferless van starting up.
Peggy puts her van into drive and heads for the street.
JOE is about halfway to the end of the building when Peggy's blue van comes into view.
Peggy looks to her left and sees Joe hurrying towards her. She guns the engine and pulls out of the parking lot, turning in the direction of the Dojo and loft.
Mike gets up and rushes to the door of the bar and stops, watching Joe as he rushes to catch Peggy.
Justin joins Mike in the doorway.
JOE stops and waves his arms at Peggy as she passes by him.
Peggy ignores Joe waving at her.
JOE drops his arms down to his sides, realizing he's too late....that Peggy isn't going to stop.
Mike turns and gives Justin a playful clap on his shoulder.[Mike] Pleasure doing business with you, my man. Mike says victoriously.
Justin rolls his eyes.[Justin] Yeah, yeah, yeah. Justin turns to go back into the bar.
JOE stands on the sidewalk and watches Peggy's van frustratedly.*** Seacouver's south western commercial district is suddenly shaken when a blue van suddenly explodes into a large fireball, shattering the windows of the buildings in the blast area and setting off several car alarms.*** Clayton blinks as the fireball's brightness seems to scorch his eyes, he feels the car rock slightly from the explosion. As he opens his eyes, he sees the van as an orange ball, crackling with fire...and he smiles. He sighs with self-satisfaction. He slowly turns the keys of the old ford he'd stolen. He'd have to leave now to avoid questions later...though he had to admire his work for just one more second. With one more self-satisfied sigh he put the car into gear and slowly drives away. He smiles as he realizes that his mission has been accomplished.
JOE is knocked off of his feet by the sudden blast. He manages to squirm his body around so he can look in the direction of the blast and he sees his God daughter's van completely consumed by flames, blue metal debris falling to the ground around it.[Joe] NOOOOO!!!!! JOE screams as he tries to use the wall of his building to get to his feet.
Mike staggers against the door jam from the force of the explosion, but is able to recover quickly and looks in that direction. He hears Joe's scream and suddenly everything seems to be in slow motion as he heads for Joe to help him up.
Justin steps back out of the bar onto the sidewalk and stares in the direction of the explosion, his mouth open, in shock.[Joe] PEGGY!!!!! God....oh God....no. JOE lets himself fall back to the ground, one arm still on the wall. He lays his head against his forearm and closes his eyes. Somewhere in the distance he hears sirens....people screaming and calling out. And somewhere
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Post by cj on Jan 29, 2008 20:23:34 GMT -5
The part of Duncan MacLeod is temporarily being understudied CARA is in the bedroom. She is humming a lively Irish jig as she puts away the laundry.
Duncan listens to his wife and smiles as he reads a book in the living room.
CARA hears the phone ring and calls out, “I got it.” She lifts the receiver of the phone on Duncan's night stand and says, “hello?”[Mike] CJ? It's Mike...down at the bar? [CARA] Mike. Hi. What's up? [Mike] I'm calling for Joe. I know that he would want you to know....ummmm.... [CARA] Know what Mike? CARA gets a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach.[Mike] I guess the best way to say this is just straight out. It's Peggy. She was killed a few minutes ago when her van exploded about a block from here. CARA feels her legs go weak and she sits down on the edge of the bed.[CARA] No. CARA says in a hoarse whisper.[Mike] I'm sorry. I know you guys were buds. Look the place is crawling with cops asking a million questions so I gotta go. I'm sorry. CARA shakes her head.[CARA] No. You go ahead. Thanks. CARA hangs up the phone and stares off into space.
Mike hangs up.
Duncan hears the silence in the bedroom and becomes curious. He gets up and walks to the bedroom door and stands in the doorway. When he sees Cara and that she is white as a sheet he moves toward her.[Duncan] Sweetheart? CARA looks up and seeing Duncan gets to her feet and meets him in the middle of the bedroom. She slips her arms around his waist and buries her head in his chest and sobs.
Duncan wraps his arms around his wife and lays his head on the top of hers.[Duncan] It's ok, sweetheart. I'm here. Duncan whispers into her hair.[CARA] It's Peggy. CARA says through her sobs.[CARA] She's dead. Duncan holds her tighter.[Duncan] My God. Duncan whispers and closes his eyes. He didn't know Peggy well but he knew that she and Cara were very close. His heart goes out to his wife as he holds her. When he sobs die he gently guides her out of the bedroom and over to the sofa where he sits her down and sits next to her. He gently moves a strand of hair from her face and takes her hands in his.[Duncan] What happened? Duncan asks in a soft voice.
CARA sniffles.[CARA] Mike said her van exploded a block from the bar. [Duncan] Dear Lord! Duncan exclaims softly.
CARA pulls her hands from Duncan's and wipes her face with the sleeve of her sweat shirt.[CARA] I should go down there. Joe shouldn't be alone right now. CARA says as she starts to get up.
Duncan gently pulls her back down.[Duncan] I agree, sweetheart. But I think we should wait. The place is probably crawling with cops right now and maybe even some Watchers. Our showing up may cause Joe more trouble than he needs. CARA realizes that Duncan's right. And nods with a sigh.[CARA] I can't believe she's gone. CARA whispers.
Duncan pulls her into his arms.[Duncan] I know. Duncan kisses the top of her head.
CARA leans against her husband in the comfort of his arms and stares into the fire in the fireplace.
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Post by cj on Jan 29, 2008 20:31:04 GMT -5
Joe stands behind Mrs. Oaks' chair and stares blankly at the white casket draped in colorful flowers. He glances around at her Watcher friends that are encircling the casket. He's attended more than a few of these funerals but this was his god-daughter.
Mrs. Oaks wipes tears away with her handkerchief
Joe lays his hand comfortingly on Peggy's mother's shoulder.
Minister begins the service with a prayer then a reading from the Bible.
CARA 's cab comes to a stop a street away from Peggy's graveside and CJ gets out, tells the driver to wait and walks up the hill. She is carrying a single white rose. She stops under a tree far enough from the service to not be seen but close enough to hear.
[Minister] Peggy's godfather will now give the eulogy.
Minister announces and steps back.
Jim Bob turns his attention Joe, with a purely internal sigh.
[Joe] Peggy could have taught us all something in the way that she lived her life. She lived each day to the fullest.
Joe begins. He goes on to talk about her spirit, giving nature and sense of humor and how, even after being left disabled from an act of violence she hadn't lost her zest for life. He concludes by reading a line from her favorite poem.
Methos, in the background, raises his head and looks at the sky, his face unreadable yet his lips hold a faint smile
CARA listens from her "hiding" place and bites her lip to stay in control. She looks around at the faces of Peggy's friends and sees Methos among them. Then she looks at Peggy's mom. She remembers when Peggy's dad was her Watcher and she remembers the night Peggy was born.
Joe returns to his spot behind Mrs. Oaks and fights to stay in control.
Methos moves his shoulders a bit sensing another immortal but doesn't turn to look
Minister steps back up and asks if anyone else would like to say something about Peggy.
Jim Bob clears his throat
Methos takes a moment to look around quickly, in a sweeping glance
[Jim Bob] I just wanted to say that Peggy was a real inspiration to me. When I first found out about our older cousins and entered the academy I... had was having some problems.
Mrs. Oaks lifts her head to look at the person speaking.
[Jim Bob] That's where I met Peggy. She helped me truly see that studying the real thing is better than, the dirt digging I was doing.
From his own hiding spot, Matthew spots Cara and sees the pain in her face.
Several others nod and mumble in agreement.
[Jim Bob] She was one of my best friends, and if any of us deserved a long full life it was her, but she knew how to live life to its fullest, as if every moment was her last. And it's that example I will follow for the rest of my life.
Mrs. Oaks manages to give the young man speaking a smile of gratitude.
Jim Bob gives Mrs. Oaks a brave smile and a nod.
Minister thanks the young man and reads another passage from the Bible.
Methos sighs and looks at the casket, the yawning hole in the ground and the bright and beautiful flowers. How many times he has stood in such a place, he can not remember nor does he care to count but the painful fact that mortals die cuts into him like the coldness of the day and he pulls the collar up more on his long black coat
One of the women begins singing Amazing grace.
When the song is finished the minister bows his head and leads everyone in the Lord's Prayer.
"For what is it to die, But to stand in the sun and melt into the wind?" Methos thinks silently to himself recalling the words of Kahlil Gibran
Mrs. Oaks lowers her head and dabs at her eyes. First she lost her husband to these people. Now her only child.
Minister concludes the service by saying, Mrs. Oaks would like everyone to join her at Peggy's godfather's for the wake." He closes his Bible and walks away from the graveside.
Methos casts another look around still sensing another immortal, wondering...
Mrs. Oaks stands up and thanks each mourner as they walk up to her.
Looking at Joe, Methos nods knowing that he will take care of Peggy's mother as Methos walks away into the mist
All of Peggy's friends and co-workers file past Mrs. Oaks and Joe and head for their awaiting cars, leaving Mrs. Oaks and Joe by the graveside.
Matthew takes this opportunity to look at everyone leaving the service.
CARA waits until everyone had gone and walks up to the casket. She lays the single rose on top of it and turns and walks up to Joe and Mrs. Oaks. She gives Joe a hug and steps over to hug Mrs. Oaks.
Mrs. Oaks looks into CJ's face and her rage gets the better of her and she slaps CJ across the face.
[Mrs. Oaks] If it weren't for you my daughter wouldn't be laying in that box.
Mrs. Oaks hisses.
Joe steps up to Mrs. Oaks and takes hold of her shoulders.
[Joe] Elizabeth....don't. It's not CJ's fault.
Joe says softly.
Mrs. Oaks covers her face and cries.
[CARA] It's OK Joe.
CARA says quietly and turns away and heads for the taxi waiting down the hill.
Joe guides Mrs. Oaks to the awaiting family car.
Matthew runs up to Cara, "CJ, stop!"
CARA stops and looks at Matthew She meets him and without looking up at him says through gritted teeth, "catch the son of a bitch who did this, Matthew."
[Matthew] I intend to but technically, it isn't my case anymore.
[Matthew] Is there anything you can tell me?
CARA shakes her head.
[CARA] I wish I could.
CARA says simply.
[CARA] Just find whoever did this and make them pay.
CARA says pleadingly.
[Matthew] Damn, I promise you this. No matter what Homeland Security says, I will catch this sicko.
CARA nods and gives Matthew a grateful smile then turns and walks away.
[Matthew] I'll call you when I know something.
CARA almost gets to her taxi when her emotions take hold. She leans against a tree trunk, covers her face with her hands and begins to cry.
Matthew sees her grief but decides it's best to let her deal with it herself so he walks away quietly.
Methos emerges from the mist, hands thrust in the pockets of his long black coat, head down as he approaches
Methos casts a quick look to the immortal who just walked away
[Methos] Nothing to say, he waits...he's good at that
Matthew is curious about this other immortal. He walks over to him.
Methos raises an eyebrow and meets the strangers gaze
“Matthew McCormick,” he says sticking out his hand.
Methos looks down at the hand offered and then at Matthew
[Methos] A good friend of Peggy's...nice to meet you
Methos offers his hand
[Matthew] I'm a friend of CJ's
"Then we have something in common" Methos says in a monotone voice
[Matthew] I'm also with the FBI.
[Methos] Nice to know where my tax dollars go...
[Matthew] Sorry for you lose, were you close to the vic...I mean the deceased.
Methos looks down at the ground. He smiles a strange smile
[Matthew] He's hiding something.
[Methos] I think you meant victim....
[Matthew] Sorry, sometimes you can't help bringing your work with you.
Methos meets his gaze
[Methos] I'm sure...and I'm sure that's part of the reason you're here...wondering if the guilty might show up...gloat...relish in the pain that he's caused...Hmmm?
Methos casts a sweeping glance over the graveyard picking out spotters at strategic places
[Matthew] You aren't wrong. I was assigned this case before Homeland Security took it but I don't intend to stop my investigation.
[Matthew] Is there anything you can tell me?
Methos shakes his head
[Matthew] I see, well it was a pleasure meeting you, Mr..I don't think I got your name?
Methos smiles and walks away as he calls out over his shoulder "No...you didn't"
[Matthew] I think this is someone I might have to keep an eye out for.
Matthew says before leaving the grave.
Methos turns towards the Taxi that hasn't left
Methos turns towards the Taxi that hasn't left
CARA cries into he hands still covering her face as she leans against the tree trunk.
CARA 's face is still red from where Mrs. Oaks slapped her.
Methos sees the figure of Cara across the way, past the Taxi. Looking back he sees that Joe and Peggy' mother have gone. Sighing he walks across the green grass and gray headstones and figures towards her. Pulling a handkerchief he presents it under Cara's nose
[Methos] I think the tree has had enough water CARA looks up and sees Methos. She takes the hanky and instinctively leans against his chest.
[CARA] Why Peggy?
CARA moans.
Methos rocks back on his heels at the impact but chuckles silently as his arm goes around her
Methos sighs heavily
[Methos] Why any of them? No one ever said that being a Watcher was a "safe" job
[Methos] She isn't the only, or the first and I fear the last...if what our FBI friend indicated
Methos rubs Cara's back
[CARA] It's just not fair. She wasn't even doing field work. She should have been out of harms way.
CARA says and sniffles as she tries to get control of her emotions.
Methos exhales roughly
[Methos] Tell me what IS fair?
[Methos] Nothing...nothing is fair...for them or us...
Methos holds Cara away from him, looking into her eyes
CARA looks up at Methos.
[Methos] Don't' think you're the only one who tasted Mrs. Oaks wrath...the Watchers were told to do several things I know as a 5,000 year old immortal as being physically impossible...it's not you, or us...it's anger and grief...
Methos looks intensively at Cara
CARA nods.
[Methos] We all say and do things when we are hurt and when we are angry and have no other recourse but to lash out at those we love and trust...
[Methos] But...because we also love and trust...understand and forgive...Hmmm?
[CARA] I know. It's ok.
CARA wipes her face with the hanky.
Methos nods and looks around, wondering
[CARA] I don't suppose you want this back.....do you?
[Methos] Where's MacLeod?
Methos smiles and shakes his head
[Methos] No...that's fine...you can keep it
[CARA] He had to go out of town.
Methos regards the used hanky
CARA says with a sniffle. Then she thinks about going home to an empty house and being alone and she lowers her head.
[Methos] I'll just charge him for it...don't worry
[CARA] Thanks.
CARA says quietly.
CARA glances at the awaiting cab.
Methos looks around and then at the cab and then at Cara
[CARA] I guess i should go before I end up owning the cab company.
CARA says a bit reluctantly.
[Methos] You....need someone to talk to tonight?
CARA looks up at Methos in surprise. She hadn't spoken to him since their disagreement a few months ago and has never known where things stood with them. But she manages a shy smile and nods.
Methos nods and gestures towards the taxi
CARA walks along side of her friend grateful for his being there.
Methos pauses and looks at the "dark suits" who are finally leaving as well
CARA hesitates before getting into the cab and looks up at the top of the hill at the flower covered casket and swallows hard. "We'll find who did this to you, Pegs....I promise," she thinks to herself. She swallows again and slides into the back seat of the taxi, making room for Methos.
Methos follows her gaze recalling the Watcher reports he's read and privately investigated on his own. "Being a Watcher isn't what it once was" he thinks to himself as he slides in next to Cara
[CARA] Where to?
CARA asks Methos when he gets in.
Methos looks at her "Well..."Dorothy"...I've heard there's no place like home" he says thinking about her recent personal "inner journey"
CARA smiles and nods.
[CARA] And I do believe there's a beer or two in the fridge.
CARA teases then tels the driver to take them where he picked her up at.
Methos leans forward once more and looks at the graveside "Life is eternal, and love is immortal, and death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight" he says under his breath as he leans back and sighs
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Post by cj on Jan 29, 2008 20:32:26 GMT -5
Agent Cait Ryce of the New Order stood motionless next to the three marble carved figures near a memorial dedicated to WWII fallen, the hood on her long gray wool coat pulled over her face giving the appearance that there were, in fact, four angels mourning the sacrifice of the men from Seacouver who gave their lives instead of three. Looking through her LCD Digital Binocular Camera with night vision, Cait took several pictures of the assembled mourners as she spoke quietly to her “eagle”, another agent situated on top of the Mausoleum which was 100 yards in the other direction from the grave site of Peggy Oaks. “Dawson...Watcher...Mrs. Oakes...Watcher, Watcher...Ahh...Agent McCormick...” she smiled espying the FBI agent as he stood in the background apart from the crowd. Scanning the vista before her Cait spotted and snapped the several FBI agents that were strategically placed. “Move again...I lost sight of where you are.” came Franks voice over her earpiece. Sighing, Cait moved ever so slightly so that her head peered out from behind the wing of one angle. “Geezus!” Frank barked causing Cait to wince. “I thought you were one of the statues! Scared the crap outta me!” “That’s the idea.” Cait sang out without moving her lips. “Any one else here who shouldn’t be?” she asked looking through the binoculars once more. “Ummm...some figures in the background..just came out of the Taxi...other than that...there’s another service about 300 feet to your left and behind the rise.” “Keep an eye out on that, get some photos...not far fetched that our bomber could crash one funeral to be close to this one.” “Crashing funerals...that’s sick.” Frank snorted. “So is blowing people up.” Cait reminded him. “True. Okay...ouch! That had to hurt...” Frank said. Cait turned her attention on the mourners once more as Joe Dawson led Peggy’s mother away. “What happened...what did I miss?” “Some redhead just went up to Oaks....I take it Mom isn’t too happy with the Watchers...she slapped the chic.” Cait adjusted the binoculars and snapped a photo. “Not a Watcher...an immortal...Cara MacLeod...Peggy was her Watcher at one time...I can imagine this is difficult for her.” Cait said. “McCormick is heading over to MacLeod...pick up on their conversation.” Cait instructed.
On the roof, Frank picked up the Orbitor Listening device turning it towards the figures. “I intend to but technically, it isn't my case anymore...”. Cait heared McCormick tell Cara. “Well then, why are you here, Agent McCormick?” Cait whispered to herself, her lips curled slightly knowing the answer already. “Just find whoever did this and make them pay.” Cara shot back, her voice filled with anger. “Damn, I promise you this. No matter what Homeland Security says, I will catch this sicko.” “So...it’s personal, eh McCormick? Not surprising.” Cait mused as she shifted her weight slightly to ease the numbing sensation that began to run up her right leg. "I told the Powers that be that he wouldn't let go so easily." “Geezus! There you go again!” Frank cursed seeing the “carved angel” coming to life once more. “What are you so jumpy about, Frank? Just because you’re lying on top of basically a mass grave has nothing to do with it, I’m sure.” “Oh...thanks..I feel tons better now. Did I tell you I also hate mimes?” he quipped. “You’re supposed to be taking pictures, eagle eye...snap to.” she reminded him as she turned slightly, scanning a 360 from her direction. After several minutes Frank’s voice brought her back to the grave site. “They’re dispersing.” he noted. “Okay...don’t move. We stay put for another 10-15 minutes in case our bomber might want to pay his own twisted respects...if he hasn’t already.” “What...you think one of them did it?” Cait leaned against the marble angle, her coat blending in even more with the figures. “Everyone is a suspect until we eliminate them as such...” It was another half hour before Cait met up with Frank, the agent lugging a suitcase full of equipment and devices. Pausing several yards from where they had parked their rental, Cait stopped him and held out the automatic starter, both slightly wincing in anticipation but greeted with the hum of the engine. “I love those things.” Frank said as he stuffed the case in the trunk. Cait paused and looked around once more, the feeling of a cemetery causing an odd sensation to form in the pit of her stomach. It had been seven years since 9/11 and since she lost her fiancé Demetrios, a NY Firefighter, and being surrounded by mourning and sorrowful figures forever cast in grief only drove that feeling of loneliness home harder and deeper. Still...there had been those times when Cait could almost see Demetrios, catch a glimpse of his twinkling dark eyes and rugged good looks staring at her, a face in the crowd that vanished in the blink of a eye. Sliding into the drivers seat, Cait pulled out of the cemetery remembering the first time she had experienced it and also remembered how everyone looked as if she were crazy when she recounted the story. It had been just after the collapse of Tower Two, she and several others in the Port Authority office had been trapped under debris, the dust and smoke obliterating all around, the air thick enough to touch. It had been the image of a firefighter, his helmet light bouncing off the wall in the distance that had made Cait squirm out from under the chunks of concrete. Helping several others, the small band began to pick their way through rubble, once familiar halls and corridors now all foreign. She could hear Demetrios’ voice leading her, guiding her until she and the others found their way clear of the building only to be greeted with more death and destruction. Making her way over to several firefighters she remembered asking them where Demetrios had gone, praying and hoping that he had not returned inside the hell hole to help others but they shrugged their shoulders as they escourted her to a aid station saying that none of them had seen Demetrios and that as far as they knew, he was still on duty, assuring her that he was alright. It was at that moment that Cait new otherwise. “So, now what?” Frank asked oblivious to the old ghosts that now sat among them in the car. “Now...we pour over the info we have...find out where the explosives were bought..or stolen...see if anyone can give a description...cross reference with the Chronicles and...” Cait difted off as her mind wrapped around the crime, her inner eye picturing the map she had stared at dozen times over, lines drawn, dates noted of all the bombing deaths that had taken place. “....and?” Frank prompted. “And...cross reference it with our files too.” Cait said slowly. “You mean..what, Watcher files? You think this person is one of us?” Frank screwed his face up. “Everyone...” Cait began. “...is a suspect, yah...I know...but one of our own?” Cait fixed a deadpan look on Frank. “What...you’ve never heard the term “Going Postal” before?” Frank nodded in consent. “Look...whoever is doing this either is extremely talented at randomly picking out Watchers...or they know about us...now, an immortal could have a grudge match with us...I can see that. A Hunter could be doing it as well, to kick up the tension between Watcher and immortal...or...maybe we just pissed one of our off....either way...it’s going to be a long night once we get back home.” “Great.” Frank said as he slid down in his seat, closing his eyes. “Wake me when we get to the airport.”
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Post by cj on Feb 5, 2008 19:53:55 GMT -5
The radio in the car was playing some pop song about drugs and rain as Clayton follows the sedan in front of him. There were a few other cars on the road, so he was able to keep a reasonable distance behind the car he tracks. He tunes the song out as he prepares his plan for taking out the next watcher that had been selected at random a few days prior. He’s still on the east coast, but honestly couldn’t place where he was as the last few weeks seemed to blend together. He was completing his mission…that was all that mattered.
He yawns and shakes his head as he drives, trying to wake himself up. He hates the driving in between kills, he wishes there was a faster way to get the job done. When there was lag time his thoughts always wandered back to how his mission started. He’d relived the moment many times in the past two years; he didn’t need to see it again…but unbidden his thoughts rewound to that fateful day when his entire life had been turned upside down…Flashback: 2 Years Ago The range rover drove down the quiet highway under clear dark evening skies. The radio played in the background, a country song by Toby Keith…they were hard pressed to find a station in the Midwest that didn’t play country so they finally stopped searching for one. The two companions sat quietly, watching the road ahead of them as the vehicle continued on.
Clayton glanced toward the younger man next to him, a watcher that he’d been training for a couple of days now: Raymond Spectry. “Are you excited, Ray? It’s finally your first time out in the field! Does it feel good to get out of that stuff old Watcher’s Academy?” He smiled toward the young man and looked back toward the road. They were getting closer to their destination, and that was good as they’d been driving for over three hours now. They were both eager to get out of the car. “I don’t know how much action you’ll actually get to see tonight, my assignment, Parkman has been pretty quiet for the past few decades. I’ve been watching him for a few years now, and I’ve never seen him take a quickening.”
“Have you ever actually seen a quickening?” Ray asked, as he looked toward Clayton with a bit of awe and wonder. He had a youthful innocence about him that made his already young age of twenty three appear even younger. “They told as at Academy that the event is truly spectacular…I was disappointed when they weren’t able to actually show us one on tape.”
Clayton nodded toward the younger man, and then looked back toward the road. “I’ve seen a couple. Each is different in its own way. Though I have seen immortals die and come back to life many times…” He trailed off and glanced toward the younger man again as if he wanted to say something but wasn’t quite sure how to phrase it. After a few moments of silence he decided to continue. “When I first became a watcher, the though to the Game, immortality and swords was the most fantastic thing I could think of. But after a couple of years watching these guys hack each other’s heads off for power and gain…watching them stay alive no matter what happens to them…” He trailed off and his eyes narrowed at the road in front of him. His voice sounded tight. “Watching them not care about who gets caught in the crossfire…normal people who don’t have the option to come back to life.” He glared ahead of him and took a breath. He managed to get himself under control and glanced toward Ray’s seemingly uncomprehending face. “Think about it.” Clayton explained. “These guys are immortal they can essentially do anything…but what do they do? They play a ‘Game’, to try and end up ruling humanity. They could help so many people with their gift, but instead they run around trying to kill each other for power.” His eyes narrowed again. “And in their search for power they don’t care who gets hurt. Maybe the call of the Game is just too strong to deny, and that’s why they play…or maybe some of them just get a cheap thrill when they cut another man’s head off. Who knows? I personally think it would be a curse to be an immortal. Who wants to live for every, anyway?” He asked with a smirk toward Ray who didn’t smile back, he just raised an eyebrow at Clayton. “Ah, not a Queen fan, I see.” Clayton said with a shrug and they rode in silence for a bit, almost to their destination.
“If you detest immortals so much…why are you still with the watchers?” Ray asked.
“Personally I’ve been thinking of leaving the watchers for a long time now.” Clayton replied with a slight shrug. “Think about it, we have our own lives to lead and instead we waste them following these immortals 24-7?” He said the word ‘immortals’ as if it were a plague. His light conversational tone once again started to turn angry as they reached their destination. Madison, South Dakota: population 7,000. “Being a watcher used to mean something. My life would have been a whole hell of a lot better if I’d never joined this damn organization. Ignorance is bliss, my friend. Ignorance is bliss.” He stopped the car and put it in park. He looked toward Ray with a bit of guilt on his face. “I’m sorry, I know I should be giving you the pep talk on why the watchers are so great—blah—blah—blah.”
To his surprise Ray actually smiled and shrugged. “It’s alright Mr. Reid. It’s refreshing to hear a perspective that’s opposite what the academy teaches.”
Clayton nodded toward the young man, but for the slightest moment thought he saw something sinister in his expression. There as a glint in his eye—but it was gone so fast that Clayton wondered if he’d imagined it. He glanced toward the lobby of the Super 8 with a slight laugh, small towns and their hotels. “Why don’t you get us a couple of rooms and I’ll start lugging our stuff inside?”
With a nod Ray went inside and Clayton popped the trunk. The only illumination in the dark night was the street lamp above the car and the slight light from the lobby. Crickets could be heard chirping away. He glanced up and saw the stars shining brightly and couldn’t help but smile slightly. It was good to see the stars.
Clayton whistled to himself as he opened up the trunk and was a little surprised at the large amount of luggage he saw there. He’d instructed to Ray to pack light. He looked the bags over and his eyes fell to a long suitcase that looked like something a musician would pack a guitar into. It was long and flat, but rectangular rather then guitar shaped. He wondered what Ray could possibly need that would be shaped like that. Curiously Clayton popped the tabs on the edges and couldn’t help but gasp at what he saw. A sword lay there. It was in special foam that fit around it snugly. Before he could handle it or close the case a voice startled him.
“Alright, it looks like you get room 7, and I’m in…what are you doing?” Ray asked as he looked toward Clayton suspiciously.
Clayton looked up toward the younger man and saw the two motel keys dangling from his fingers. “What is this?” Clayton practically whispered and indicated the case that was still propped open in the trunk.
“That’s a sword, Clay.” Ray said simply as he stepped forward, shoving Clayton out of the way. He snapped the case shut a little harder then was necessary. He picked up the case and held it close to him protectively before he turned and looked toward Clayton guardedly.
“Are you…are you one of them?!” Clayton asked his eyes wide with disbelief. He took a bit of a wavering step back.
Ray narrowed his eyes at Clayton as if the man had just insulted his mother. “In no way am I part of that abomination toward humanity. I’m with a special section of watchers who…eliminate immortals for the betterment of mankind.”
Clayton stared at Ray uncomprehendingly. “You…kill immortals?” He asked in disbelief. He took a slight step back. “You’re like Horton…the renegade watcher. But Horton’s dead…the renegades were disbanded.”
“Not all of them.” Ray said. He had a cold gleam in his eye that aged him past his youthful exterior. “Horton was a great man who was wise past his years. He had vision. He knew that immortals would have to be taken out if regular humans could ever have a normal, peaceful life.” He sighed thoughtfully to himself. “I first heard of him in the academy. The instructors don’t talk openly about what he did, but there were rumors that were passed along. I joined a small group in honor of Horton’s memory. We decided to take it upon ourselves to continue what Horton started. Once I was cleared for active field duty it was my job to not only go after certain immortals, but to convert other watchers as well.” He took a step forward as Clayton stepped back. “You have the determination and hate toward immortals to be fit to join our group.” He said solemnly.
Clayton flinched noticeably. “I was targeted?” He asked in disbelief.
“Your dislike for immortals isn’t a closely guarded secret in our group.” Ray replied with a slight smirk that looked plain evil on his face. “Do you remember Tulsa about seven years back?” He watched Clayton’s eyes go wide. “Kavanagh. I see you remember.”
“You killed my cousin?” Clayton asked, anger growing in his voice. His hands clenched into fists at his side.
“Don’t be ridiculous.” Ray replied with a roll of his eyes. “Though we couldn’t plan it any better if we’d tried. Your cousin was killed during one of Kavanagh’s bank robberies. An unfortunate…for you…loss. But my group and I saw it as an opportunity. Your hate for immortals started then and there. You should have been taken off active field duty and given a nice little desk job where they could keep close tabs on you to make sure you weren’t getting more insane.” He smiled with self satisfaction. “The members of my group saw to it that your cousin’s death was covered up, and convinced you to never bring it up again. Then you stayed on active field duty, and right in the palm of our hand.”
“Why are you doing all of this?” Clayton asked thickly. Everything seemed to be coming at him at once; he didn’t have a chance to absorb one fact before another was thrown in his face.
“Simple.” Ray shrugged. “We want you to join us.”
“What?!” Clayton asked. “That’s ridiculous! We shouldn’t even be having this conversation!”
“You have the resources, and you have the hate toward immortals. You’d be the perfect addition to our group.” He stroked the box that held the sword almost lovingly as he talked.
“Is that why you have that?” Clayton asked with a nod toward the sword. “To use on Parkman?”
“Yes.” Ray said simply.
Clayton shook his head. “I won’t be a part of this. You’re right, I do hate immortals. I hate them with every fiber of my being. They killed my cousin who practically raised me when my parents died. But why should I join you? You knew how her death affected me, yet you and you’re little group thought it beneficial to your cause?! You’re insane.”
Ray’s eyes narrowed. “There are more of us out there then you’d think. Be smart, join us.” He watched Clayton look around nervously for help. Not seeing any, the older man turned and ran. “Then die.” Ray said to himself as he pulled a gun out of his pocket, equipped with a silencer. He fired two rounds into Clayton’s retreating back and watched the man stumble to the gravel. He sighed to himself as he pocketed the gun and placed the sword case back in the trunk of the car. “What a waste.”
Clayton lay on the gravel as he looked up at the stars. He felt his blood staining the ground, and he grew weaker with every breath he took. He blinked once and saw Ray hovering over him, watching him die. “You could have been something truly spectacular.” Ray said with a disappointed sigh.
Then everything went black.Present Day Clayton blinks and takes a right to follow the watcher ahead of him. He’ll never forget how he woke up buried in a shallow grave in the country. He’d sat up spitting dirt from his mouth and shivering from the cold. He’d been confused at first, wondering what had happened, but his heart had beat faster as cold realization had sunk in. He hadn’t believed he was immortal right away. He’d tested the theory many times, from watching simple cuts heal before his eyes to throwing himself off a thirty story building. When his new identity had been proven without a doubt, cold realization had made him howl until his throat had been too hoarse to continue. He’d wanted to kill himself. He wanted someone to take his head. Many times he’d been very close to finding a way to take his own head.
It wasn’t until one rainy night with thunder rattling the sky that he’d had a revelation. He was now in a position to take revenge. He’d listened to the thunder roll all around him as he’d thought about it. He absolutely despised what he’d become…but he could use it to his advantage. He hated immortals and he hated watchers. If it’d been up to him he would have wiped them all off the face of the earth. If he’d wanted to make his statement loud and clear he’d have to go after one or the other…but which one to choose?
His gaze was drawn to dice that sat on the floor amidst some playing cards and poker chips. He’d cocked his head to the side and drawn up the dice, rolling the cube around in his hand as he thought about it. He’d stopped suddenly and a cold light entered his eyes.
Clayton jumps as a car behind him beeps loudly. He looks toward the stop light that was now green. He put his foot on the gas pedal and continues forward, murmuring to himself. “Odd are immortals. Even are watchers.” His sharp eyes look forward to see that his target stops up ahead. Clayton parks the car a few blocks down from the warehouse. He carefully grabs his package from the seat next to him. Continued on Page 2
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Post by cj on Feb 5, 2008 20:01:18 GMT -5
Before he knew it, the bomb was placed and activated under the watcher’s car, as the oblivious man took pictures not even fifty feet away, far too occupied with the clashing of swords in front of him to notice anything else. Clayton stands and for a moment feels a strange buzz sensation in his head. He ignores it and quickly makes his way back to his car. The buzz disappears.
Clayton stays in his car, a safe distance away from the fireworks. He waits in anticipation. His patience finally pays off ten minutes later when the watchers’ task was complete. Clayton watches as the unassuming man got into his car. The explosion shook the car and all the surrounding buildings. A smile tugs at the corners of the former watcher’s lips as another evil watcher is taken down.
He slowly puts the car in gear and drives away without a care in the world. He whistles to himself. Another target was complete.The part of Duncan MacLeod is temporarily being understudied CARA is sitting in the crews quarters of the local ambulance company where she is doing ride along time for her Physician's Assistant class. She looks up at the clock on the wall and sees that her shift ends in 10 minutes so she closes the text book she has been studying and begins to gather up her belongings when the klaxon goes off signaling that they have a call. She follows the Paramedics out to the ambulance and climbs into the back, strapping herself into the jump seat behind the driver. The call is to an explosion in a warehouse on the old waterfront. When they arrive the fire department has put out the fire. The Paramedics get out and open the rear door of the unit and take out the gurney and drug box while CJ grabs the radio and defibrillator/EKG monitor. She follows behind them as they follow a fireman to the remains of the only victim. She squats down next to the right side of the charred body and observes as the lead Paramedic begins his assessment and his partner makes contact with the hospital. As she looks over the body she notices that the victim's right lower arm has not been burned and that there is a tattoo on the inside of the wrist. She turns it over so she can see the tattoo better and discovers that it is a Watcher tattoo. The radio crackles as the hospital instructs the Paramedics to start CPR and transport. Since it is obvious that the patient is deceased and the ambulance cannot legally transport a patient that has been pronounced in the field it is assumed that the hospital wants it to look like the patient is being treated and then will pronounce en route This saves the entire team from having to wait for the county coroner to arrive to collect the body. CJ steps out of their way as they get ready to load the patient onto the gurney. As she does she quickly scans the area as if looking for something then she follows the two Paramedics and the fireman, who is doing compressions, back to the rig. They load the patient into the ambulance, the fireman and Paramedic climb into the back and CJ closes the rear doors She hurries around and climbs in the side door and takes a seat in the jump seat. As the driver gets in and pulls away from the scene, CJ begins hooking up the oxygen to the ambu bag as the Paramedic contacts the hospital again. The radio crackles as the hospital instructs them to stop CPR and pronounces the patient dead. ***2 hours later*** CARA turns the corner onto the street the Dojo/loft is and presses the button on the garage door opener. She pulls into the garage, gets out and heads for the front door of the Dojo. She rushes into the Dojo and looks around for Duncan. Seeing him across the room re-stacking some free weight disks she heads for him.[CARA] Mac! CARA calls out as she glances around and notices that they are alone.
Duncan feels the buzz of another Immortal and glances under his arm as he picks up a couple of weights off the floor. Seeing that it's his wife he continues what he is doing. But when he hears the urgency in her voice when she calls to him he stops and turns to her.[Duncan] I'm just closing up. Duncan says and grabs the handle of the broom that is leaning on the wall next to the stack of disks.[CARA] I need to talk to you as soon as you come upstairs. CARA says firmly. She walks up and gives him a quick peck on the cheek.
Duncan's brow furrows.[Duncan] Sure. I'll be just a few more minutes. Ok? [CARA] See you upstairs. CARA says and heads for the hallway leading to the stairs. When she gets to the hall doorway she stops and looks over her shoulder and says in a sultry voice, “nice bod.” She disappears into the hall and heads upstairs.
Duncan smiles and shakes his head and finishes closing up the Dojo. Then he heads upstairs. As he enters the living room he sees Cara standing in front of the window with her arms folded across her chest and staring out as if on another planet. He walks up behind her and wraps his arms around her. He places a gentle kiss on her cheek.
CARA turns in Duncan's arms and stands on her tip toes and kisses him on the lips. She then takes his hand and leads him over to the sofa and sits down patting the cushion next to her.
Duncan takes a seat and looks at his wife expectantly. [CARA] We had a last minute call tonight to an explosion. CARA starts explaining.[CARA] It was in one of the abandoned warehouses down on the old waterfront. There was only one victim...deceased of course. When the Paramedics were assessing the victim I noticed that he was a Watcher. CARA lets this sink in by getting up and going into the bedroom where she changes into a pair of black jeans and a black turtleneck sweater.
Duncan stares at Cara taken by surprise. He watches her go into the bedroom and stares after her in silence for a few minutes then gets up and walks to the bedroom door. He stands in the doorway.[Duncan] What are you doing? Duncan asks seeing his wife is changing clothes.[CARA] I want to go back down to the scene and snoop around. I want to see if the guy's notebook is anywhere around before the wrong people find it. Then give it to Joe. But I also want to see if the scene gives up any clues as to who is doing this. [Duncan] Why not leave it to the professionals? Duncan asks even though he knows the answer. [CARA] Because....except for Matthew...certain clues that only an Immortal would know might slip by them. [Duncan] I'm sure that the Watchers will investigate as soon as they know that another one of their people has been murdered. [CARA] And by that time the scene will have been compromised and cleaned up. Duncan knows that what she is saying is probably more true than not. He also knows that Cara is determined to do this and nothing he could say will change her mind. He is about to tell her OK but that he will go with her when the phone rings. He walks over and picks up the phone on his night stand.[Duncan] MacLeod. Duncan says into the phone. He listens for a minute then covers the mouth piece and whispers, “It's Richie,” to Cara.[Duncan] Ok....hold on....wait a minute. Duncan says shaking his head.[Duncan] Look....Richie.....can this wait until..... CARA waves at Duncan to get his attention and gestures for him to cover the phone for a second.[Duncan] Hang on, buddy. Duncan says and covers the mouth piece again. He looks at his wife questioningly[CARA] Go ahead and take care of Richie. I can do this by myself. CARA says and puts her long red hair into a ponytail.
Duncan looks at her and furrows his brow.
CARA sees the look on his face and walks up to him. She places the palms of her hands on his chest and looks up into his eyes.[CARA] I promise to be careful I won't do anything foolish or careless. I promise. CARA gives him a quick kiss on his lips and smiles as she quickly turns and heads out of the bedroom.
Duncan closes his eyes and sighs knowing that any protest on his part would fall on deaf ears. He opens his eyes and goes back to his conversation with Richie.
CARA puts on her duster, sheaths her sword and opens up the door to the small closet by the coat rack. She takes a wooden box, the size of a shoe box from the shelf and removes her 357 which she sticks in the back waistband of her jeans. She grabs her keys and heads for the stairs, taking them two at a time.***20 minutes later*** Clayton slowly drives his Range Rover down the road to the area of the last explosion. The charred remains were still there. He narrows his eyes as he looks around. It wasn't until he'd arrived back at his motel room that he'd thought of the watcher's notebook. If the notebook had survived the explosion it could provide better insight to use against future watchers. Clayton drifts to a stop and puts the car in park. He parks about fifty feet away from the charred car and gets out of his vehicle and starts to walk toward the car[Clayton] I wonder if they've gotten my message loud and clear? Clayton starts to poke around what was left of the car, hoping to find anything of value
CARA stops her truck as soon as she feels the buzz of another Immortal. She quickly backs up until the buzz is gone and backs into a warehouse kitty corner and across from the explosion scene. She takes a single scope binocular out of her glove box, gets out and goes quietly to the warehouse door and puts the lens to her eye and scans the explosion scene. She sees someone rummaging through the rubble and watches him.
Clayton feels that strange buzz that he felt earlier, and glances around quickly, suspiciously. The buzz disappears quickly, and he just as quickly ignores it
CARA continues to watch from her hiding place.
Clayton continues to poke around the burnt remains, pushing items aside with a sick that he'd picked up from the ground[CARA] Who are you and what are you looking for? CARA whispers.
Clayton sighs exasperatedly when all he finds is burnt to a crisp. Realizing that nothing was to be salvaged from the explosion he drops the stick and starts back toward his car. He gets into his range rover, starts the engine and backs out of the area. He turns his car toward the direction of his hotel, disappointed that he'd wasted his time
CARA slips back to her truck and silently gets back in. She slinks down in her seat and waits. When she sees the Range Rover go by the door of the warehouse she's in she starts her truck and quietly pulls out of the warehouse. She proceeds to follow the Range Rover from a safe distance.
Clayton drives toward his motel, thinking of the explosion, making mental modifications to the next bomb he planned to create...but first he needed a new target. He taps his fingers on the steering wheel as he drives, slightly bobbing his head to the rock song on the radio. He breaks for a red light, and glances toward his left. He sees a pretty blond and smiles before the light turns green and he continues forward
CARA follows the Range Rover until she sees it pull into the parking lot of a sleazy motel and she parks across the street and watches.
Clayton finally turns into his fleabag motel and parks in front of one of the rooms. He locks and exits his car before entering his room. Once in his room he flips open his laptop and starts up his elimination program. He pours himself a glass of water from the tap and watches the computer screen cycle through pictures and names, selecting people at random. After a quick drink of water, and a grimace at the awful taste his stomach growls noisily He glances toward the laptop, then down at his stomach. "I'll only be gone a few minutes...it should be done by the time I get back." Clayton nods with decision and grabs his keys from the table he'd thrown them on. Leaving the laptop open to continue the cycle of the program he exits the room, locks the door and gets into his range rover, intent on finding some food. He backs out of his parking spot and drives toward the nearest fast food restaurant
CARA slinks down in her seat and waits until the Range Rover is out of sight then puts the binocular back in the glove box and removes a small leather pouch. She gets out of her truck and jogs across the street to the door he had come out of. She opens the small pouch and removes a lock picking tool and lets herself into the room. Once inside she is glad that the guy had left his lights on. She looks around the room and sees the laptop and scattered papers on top of the table and she walks over to it. She freezes when she sees the screen saver on the screen of the laptop. It's a Watcher symbol. She touches the touch pad and moves her finger across it and the screen saver disappears and shows the log in screen for the Watcher Database.[CARA] No way. CARA whispers. She then notices a piece of paper laying next to the laptop with a pair of dice on it. She looks at it closer and sees several names listed on it. One of those names is Peggy Oaks. Each name has a number in front of it. The dice is showing the number 7 and the number seven is in front of the name William Farrell. She commits the name to memory. She goes over to the closet and opens it and quickly looks through it then closes it. She glances back at the laptop and sees that the screen saver has come on again so she leaves the room and jogs to her truck. She gets in and heads for home...her mind reeling with what she has learned.Continued on Page 3
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Post by cj on Feb 5, 2008 20:06:44 GMT -5
Clayton pulls up to his motel, munching on a French fry as he stops. He gets out lugging a drink and a paper bag, fumbling with his key for a moment before he lets himself into his room. He throws his keys onto the desk next to the door and walks toward the living room. He places his bag of food on the end table in the living room next to his laptop. He sits down on the chair, takes a swig of coke then fingers the touch pad to get past the screen saver His eyes watch the screen as it cycles through the names, almost through pulling out random watchers. The program finishes and scans the names on the list then grabs his dice. He rolls them around in his hands a few times, rubbing the cubes together before he tosses them to the end table His eyes are riveted as he watches the dice bounce and skid to a stop with a 4 and a 6. His eyes scan the names on the watchers list until he stops at the picture of the man who is number 10. Mark Hilander, residing in Olympia, Washington. With a decisive nod of his head, he closes the laptop and finishes his supper. He would catch the next flight to WA tomorrow. With a smile he crawls onto his bed and closes his eyes. His mission was going perfectly. He was asleep before his head had fully hit the pillow.
CARA pulls up in front of the Dojo and parks at the curb. She gets out and jogs up to the door to the building, unlocks it, goes inside and locks the door behind her. She hurries to the elevator and presses the call button. When the car arrives she gets in and rides it upstairs.
Duncan feels the buzz of another Immortal and gets up from the sofa where he was reading. He walks over to the rack above the coat rack and slips his Katana out of it's sheath just as he hears the elevator car ascending.
CARA steps to the door as the elevator comes to a stop. When the door opens she freezes in place seeing Duncan standing there, sword in hand. She smiles at Duncan sheepishly.
[CARA] I wasn't that long....was I?
Duncan grins at his wife and puts his sword back.
[Duncan] Sorry.
Duncan says and walks up to her, takes her in his arms, dips her backwards and kisses her passionately.
[Duncan] Am I forgiven?
Duncan asks when he breaks the kiss but he doesn't lift her back to a standing position.
CARA's breath is taken away by the passion of the kiss. She looks up into her husband's eyes and whistles then grins.
[CARA] I'm not sure. Maybe you should try again.
Duncan kisses her again then breaks off and looks down at her.
[Duncan] How about now?
CARA looks thoughtful then shrugs.
[CARA] Well....if that's the best you can do.....
Duncan kisses her again then looks at her and quirks an eyebrow.
[Duncan] You wouldn't be taking advantage...would you?
CARA smiles mischievously.
[CARA] Ummm....I might be.
CARA giggles.
[CARA] But, yes....you're more than forgiven.
Duncan smiles and lets her up.
[Duncan] So? What did you find out?
Duncan asks as he leads her over to the sofa. He sits down, pulling her down next to him.
CARA tells him about her discovery.
Duncan listens intently. When Cara has finished he gets up and walks over to the fireplace. He stokes the embers and adds another log to the fire as he contemplates what he has just heard.
[Duncan] Did you find anything with the guy's name on it?
CARA shakes her head.
[CARA] No. Nothing. I think we should tell Matthew about this.
[Duncan] I'm sure Joe would like a heads up before Matthew hears about it.
Duncan returns to the sofa and sits down next to his wife.
[CARA] Joe's still in Colorado at Peggy's mom's. He flew home with her and I'm assuming will be there until he knows she is alright. He probably doesn't even know what is going on.
Duncan nods agreeing that Joe's attention would be elsewhere...dealing with the death of his Goddaughter.
[Duncan] You're probably right.
[CARA] I'll contact Matthew in the morning. Unless you want to do it. You're more of a friend to him than I am.
[Duncan] I wouldn't necessarily say that we are friends. The first time we met he was trying to arrest a friend of mine and the second time he was arresting. Not what you would call a friendship.
[CARA] Alright. Then I'll call him. We worked pretty closely in trying to clear you from all that last year.
CARA stretches and yawns.
[CARA] But in the morning. Tonight I'm beat.
Duncan stands up and holds out his hand to his wife.
[Duncan] Then, Mrs. MacLeod....may I escort you to the boudoirs?
CARA smiles demurely and takes his hand. She gets to her feet and follows him into the bedroom.
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Post by cj on Feb 6, 2008 23:45:43 GMT -5
CARA goes to the closet and opens it, locating the suit she had worn to Peggy's grave and fishes the business card that Matthew had given her out of the jacket pocket. She goes over to the phone on the night stand and dials the cell phone number written on the back and waits for the phone to be answered.
[Matthew] Hello?
[CARA] Matthew? It's CJ MacLeod
CARA says when Matthew answers the phone.
[Matthew] Hello, Cara, it's good to hear from you.
[CARA] Matthew....are you busy right now?
[Matthew] Not for you, what can I do for you?
[CARA] I need to talk to you. Can you come by the loft?
[Matthew] I'll be there in 10 minutes.
[CARA] Thanks. See you then.
CARA says and hangs up. She picks the phone back up and presses the intercom button.
[Matthew] Several minutes pass by as Matthew drives towards Cara's loft.
[CARA] Richie.....Matthew McCormick will be stopping by. Please send him on up when he gets here.
CARA says then hangs up. She goes into the kitchen and makes a fresh pot of coffee.
Matthew arrives at her loft knowing what she wants. He arrives at the loft and exist his car. He feels the presence of an immortal as he enters the building.
CARA pours the freshly brewed coffee into a carafe and places it and 2 mugs, sugar bowl and creamer ion a tray and carries it out to the living room and sets it on the coffee table just as she feels the buzz of an Immortal. She goes over to the elevator and sends the car to the first floor for Matthew.
Matthew enters the loft and goes up to the loft.
CARA greets Matthew with an outstretched hand for him to shake when the elevator door opens.
[CARA] Hi Matthew. I'm glad you could come by. Would you like some coffee?
[Matthew] CJ, it's good to see you, how are you?
CARA says gesturing to the tray on the coffee table.
[Matthew] That would be great.
[CARA] I'm hanging in. Come on in and have a seat.
[Matthew] Thanks.
CARA leads the way to the sofa. She pours coffee into both mugs, puts sugar in hers and stirs it then takes a seat in the chair at the end of the sofa.
[CARA] Help yourself to cream and sugar if you want.
[Matthew] I'm fine, so what can I do for you?
CARA says and takes a sip of her own coffee and waits for him to get settled.
[CARA] Ok.....first off....I need to tell you something that you have to promise to keep to yourself.
CARA says looking at him.
[Matthew] I swear.
CARA clears her throat. Usually Duncan told this story but he had to go out of town so the task has been left to her.
[CARA] Have you ever heard of Watchers?
[Matthew] Watchers? Who are they? and what do they watch?
[CARA] Ok. There is a secret organization called the Watchers. They are a group of mortals who were established centuries ago to watch Immortals and record what they observe so that there is an accurate history of our....Immortal's existence
CARA waits for this to sink in and takes a sip of her coffee.
After several minutes of silence Matthew finally speaks.
[Matthew] Are you kidding me, mortals WATCH us?
CARA nods.
[CARA] They watch and record but never interfere. Well....they aren't supposed to anyway. They aren't out to do us any harm....just record our existence
[Matthew] OK, so these "watchers" are observing us, why are you telling me.
CARA sits forward and sets her cup on the coffee table.
[CARA] Because Peggy Oaks was one. She was my Watcher. She had been since graduating their academy when she was 17. Her father was my Watcher before her. She took over when he passed away.
CARA rests her elbows on her knees and looks into Matthew's eyes.
[Matthew] The last bombing victim, now I see.
CARA shakes her head.
[Matthew] I'm sorry.
[CARA] No. Not the last one. There was another yesterday morning.
[Matthew] I'm afraid I've been out of the loop since that damn DHS woman took me off the case. Could she be a Watcher?
CARA thinks about his question for a few seconds.
[CARA] Did you notice if she had a tattoo?
[Matthew] Tattoo, what kind?
[CARA] On the inside of her wrist. It would be a small circular symbol. All Watchers have one.
[Matthew] No, she had no tattoo on her wrist.
[CARA] Ok......the reason I'm telling you all of this is this.....
CARA picks up her coffee cup and takes a sip then sets it back down.
[CARA] I'm studying to be a physician's assistant and have to do some ride along time with the local ambulance company. Yesterday we responded to the scene of an explosion down on the old waterfront.
CARA takes another sip of her coffee.
[CARA] It was a male. he was burnt pretty bad....dead, of course. I noticed that he had the tattoo.
[Matthew] Go on.
CARA sets her cup on the table.
[CARA] I went back last night to look through the rubble for his notebook. When I got there....someone else was sifting through the rubble.
CARA leans forward.
[CARA] It was an Immortal.
CARA watches Matthew's expression.
[Matthew] Did you get a good look at this immortal.
CARA nodded.
[CARA] Yeah. I did. And I followed him when he left the scene. He went to the Sunrise Motel just off of the Interstate on the North side of town.
[Matthew] Did you recognize him?
CARA clears her throat.
[CARA] No. I waited for him to leave his motel room and when he did I went inside and snooped around..
CARA lets this sink in.
[Matthew] You do know that's illegal.
CARA shrugs and smiles sheepishly.
[CARA] So is taking someone's head but we do it all the time.
CARA picks up her cup and takes a sip.
[CARA] Do you want to know what I found inside?
[Matthew] Toucher, so what did you find?
[CARA] He had a laptop turned on. Its screen saver was the Watcher symbol so I cleared the screen saver and he was logged into the Watcher database....something only a Watcher has access to.
CARA takes another sip of her coffee.
[Matthew] An immortal Watcher, now that's something interesting, go ahead.
[CARA] Next to the laptop was a piece of paper with several names on it. Each name had a number in front of it. Peggy's name was on that list.
CARA clears her throat.
[Matthew] Did you recognize any of the other names?
[CARA] There was a pair of dice on top of the paper. The number showing was 7. There was a name with the number 7 in front of it. I called the hospital this morning before calling you to see if they had IDed yesterday's victim and his name was the same as the name on the list with the number 7 in front
CARA takes another sip of her coffee.
[Matthew] Was he a watcher?
[CARA] I'm not sure what the correlation is between the dice and the list but my gut says there's a connection somewhere. I couldn't find anything with the guy's name on it, though. But he's staying in room 112 of the Sunrise.
[CARA] I'm going to assume he is a Watcher...although the fact that he is one of us throws me.
[Matthew] I'll check it out. Cara, I need you to stay away from this guy from now on.
CARA sits back.
[CARA] Oh....I'm not the heroic type. I'm not sure what it all means but I thought you should know. I mean....it has to mean something.....right?
CARA wishes she had had a camera to take a picture of the paper.
[Matthew] I think so, do you know any other watchers?
CARA averts her eyes as she contemplates her answer. She hates giving up what information she has....feeling like she is somehow betraying Joe and Peggy's trust. But she wants Peggy's killer caught.
[CARA] I know a couple. But neither of them are involved.
CARA hopes he doesn't ask her who they are.
[CARA] Matthew....there's one more thing.
CARA hoping to avert the subject.
[CARA] After I found out about Peggy i went to her apartment and I found this.
CARA takes a folded up piece of paper out of her pocket, unfolds it and hands it to Matthew
[Matthew] What's this?
[CARA] Do the names on that ;list mean anything to you?
[Matthew] What about it?
CARA waits giving him time to look the list over.
[Matthew] These are the victims from the previous bombings.
CARA sighs.
[Matthew] This immortal is killing watchers.
CARA nods.
[CARA] And Peggy had made the connection.
CARA sits forward.
[Matthew] Then to hell with DHS, now it involves me.
[CARA] If this guy....the Immortal is a Watcher....I would venture a good guess the Watchers don't know he is an Immortal.
CARA thinks about how long Methos had been fooling them with his pretense of being a Watcher looking for himself.
[CARA] If he is....a Watcher that is....I can't think why he would be killing Watchers.
CARA scoots closer to the table and refills her coffee cup.
[Matthew] I think it's time I had a chat with Agent Ryce
[CARA] Is any of this going to be helpful, Matthew? Her name is Ryce? What's her first name?
[Matthew] Yes it is.
CARA asks getting to her feet.
[Matthew] Do you know if Watchers have ever killed immortals?
CARA walks over to the small writing desk and picks up a carrying bag setting next to it. She sits down at the desk and takes a laptop out of the bag and sets it on the desk, opening it. She types a few commands and waits for the program to load.
[CARA] Is that important to the case?
CARA asks without turning to look at Matthew. When the program is loaded she types in Peggy's user name and password and sits back waiting.
[Matthew] It could be, think about it. If a watcher had killed immortals then our killer could be doing this for revenge.
[CARA] What's Ryce's first name?
CARA asks as she types info into the laptop.
[Matthew] Cait.
CARA types the name in and waits as the program searches. Suddenly a file pops up. When the picture in the file loads she turns back to Matthew.
[CARA] Is this her?
CARA asks pointing to the picture.
[Matthew] Well, well. Looks like Agent Ryce is a watcher after all.
CARA nods.
[CARA] This was Peggy's laptop. I brought it home so that cops wouldn't get their hands on it.
[Matthew] Now, I do need to talk with her.
CARA looks at her watch.
[CARA] Matthew.....I hope I have given you something that is helpful.
[Matthew] You did, I appreciate it and I promise I'll do everything I can to catch the bastard.
CARA nods feeling somewhat victorious in having done something to help. She turns off the laptop and puts it back in the bag and sets it on the floor next to the desk.
[Matthew] Cara, I need to leave now but I want you to know that I will try to catch this person but I want you to promise me to stay out of the way.
CARA gets up from the desk and holds her hands up.
[Matthew] I'll keep in touch, I promise.
[CARA] I promise. That is definitely not my intention. I just happened to be at the right place at the right time and I thought my discovery was important.
CARA smiles innocently
Matthew heads towards the elevator, "It was very helpful, thanks."
CARA follows him to the elevator.
[CARA] I'm glad I could help. I just wish I had had a camera so I could have taken a picture of the list the guy had. I have a feeling he was at the scene looking for the same thing I was.
Matthew gets into the elevator and pushes the button. "Goodbye Cara and tell MacLeod hello.
[CARA] I will. And thanks, Matthew You be careful.
CARA says with a warm smile. She watches the elevator door close then heads for the bedroom to change clothes.
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Post by cj on Feb 8, 2008 19:00:21 GMT -5
CARA sits at the bar studying her cup of coffee as she contemplates her discovery.
Mike is stocking the back bar with bottles from a carton on the floor.
Nathan enters the bar and walks over to the bar table
[CARA] So...Mike. Have you heard anything from Joe?
Mike shakes his head.
Nathan looks over to Cara
[Mike] Not for several days. But the last time he checked in he said that things were pretty rough and he may have to be gone longer than he had anticipated.
CARA nods and takes a sip of her coffee. She looks over at the new comer, smiles a bit and nods a silent greeting.
Mike walks over to the new customer and places a bar napkin on the bar in front of him.
[Mike] What can I get for you?
Mike asks with a smile.
[Nathan] Coffee please
Mike gets a coffee mug and fills it with coffee. He sets the cup on the bar and grabs a bowl of sugar packets and a creamer and sets it there also.
[Nathan] Thanks you, and if you can tell me one thing?
[Mike] Sure.....if i can.
Mike says and quirks an eyebrow.
[Nathan] Where is Joe Dawson? I've been sent over by a friend of his from England to help him with his problem
CARA takes a sip of her coffee and watches the stranger in the mirror behind the bar.
Mike is suddenly cautious.
[Mike] Problem? what problem would that be?
Mike asks feigning nonchalance.
CARA glances sideways at the stranger and notices the edge of a tattoo on the inside of his wrist...just peeking out from under his shirt cuff. She pretends to concentrate on her coffee cup.
[Nathan] He said it was regarding a close friend of his. If you happen to know where he might be, then I'll be on my way
[Mike] He's out of town. He probably won't be back for a while. Is there a message?
CARA picks up her cup and spills it.
Nathan sighs, wondering what to do now.
Mike walks over to CJ with a towel and starts to wipe off the bar and refill her cup.
CARA taps the inside of her wrist.
[Nathan] Ok. Tell him that Nathan Long was sent over by Stefan from London to help him out with what's been happening lately
Mike sees what CJ is doing and looks at her and nods slightly. He returns to stand in front of the stranger....reaches for something on the bar so that his sweater sleeve uncovers his own Watcher tattoo for the stranger to see.
Nathan looks around and then quickly flashes his tattoo
[Mike] Maybe we should step into the office.
[Nathan] Lead the way
Mike says and starts walking to the back of the bar and Joe's office.
Nathan follows Mike into Joe's office
[Mike] Have a seat.
Nathan takes a seat
Mike says and gestures to the couch. He closes the office door and takes a seat behind Joe's desk.
[Mike] Now.....let's start again.
Mike says and rolls his chair closer and extends his hand.
[Mike] I'm Mike.
Mike introduces himself.
[Nathan] Ok, my name is Nathan Long. The London branch sent me over to help Joe discover who the murderer is
[Nathan] Plus I'm Colin MacLeod's watcher
Mike quirks an eyebrow.
[Mike] Do you have something in writing?
[Nathan] Writing?
Mike asks knowing that London wouldn't send someone without some sort of letter to prove their involvement.
[Nathan] Oh, you mean this...
Nathan reaches inside his jacket pocket and hands over a letter.
Mike takes the envelope from Nathan, opens it and reads it over. It all seems legitimate so he replaces the letter in the envelope and places that in Joe's top drawer.
[Nathan] So Mike, what have we got so far?
[Mike] Well....like I said...Dawson's out of town. He flew to Colorado with Peggy Oaks' mother to take care of her during this hard time. He probably won't be back for a few weeks. The last I heard was that they didn't want Joe involved because he is too close to it.
Mike sits back in his chair.
[Mike] It's been pretty rough on Joe. She was his Goddaughter after all and he witnessed the explosion.
Mike says somberly.
[Nathan] Have you recovered all of Peggy Oak's materials?
[Mike] Anything she may have had on her or in her van was destroyed in the explosion. Just what does London think you can do? I mean....with all of the police involvement....and I hear the feds are here, too.
[Nathan] London sent me because the situation needs to be cleaned up on our side as soon as possible
CARA takes her cell phone out and dials Matthew McCormick's number. While keeping an eye on the office door she says quietly when his voice mail answers, "Matthew? It's CJ. Call me. New info." She hangs up and puts her phone away.
[Mike] Well.....I guess you know what you're doing. A word of warning though....if the feds are here....you might want to stay out of their way. The guy who heads their serial killer team is an Immortal. And he's pretty tough.
[Nathan] For instance. Someone needs to close Peggy's Watcher account down, someone may have knowledge of it. What's his name?
[Mike] Matthew McCormick. As for shutting down Peggy's account....I don't have access to administration stuff. Only Joe does.
[Nathan] That's quite alright. I can handle Peggy's account. As for McCormick. His name has been mentioned before
[Mike] I wouldn't doubt it. from what i hear he is the best at what he does.
[Nathan] He have any contacts within Seacouver?
Mike thinks about his answer for a few seconds then shrugs.
[Mike] You'll have to ask his Watcher that....or check his Chronicle. I, personally, have never met him.
Mike picks up a pen and grabs a piece of scratch paper.
Nathan wonders if Mike is holding back information
[Mike] Do you have a number that you can be reached at?
[Nathan] I see. And his watcher is?
Mike shakes his head.
[Mike] Without looking at his file I couldn't tell you. I'm just a field op and haven't committed the entire database to memory. Hell....I have enough trouble remembering my own name.
Mike says and chuckles.
[Nathan] Well find out for me if you can.
Nathan takes out a note book, writes his cell number on it, tears the paper off and hands it to Mike.
[Nathan] You can reach me at this number.
Mike wonders why the guy can't look in the database himself. He takes the piece of paper from Nathan and puts it in Joe's top drawer.
[Mike] Ok.
Mike stands up.
[Mike] If I hear anything I will give you a call and I will pass the number on to Joe when he checks in again.
Nathan stands up and walks out of the office
Mike follows Nathan out of the office and walks back behind the bar. He clears Nathan's coffee cup from the bar.
Nathan leaves the bar and enters his car. Remembering to check the database once he gets back to the house.
CARA empties her cup and stands up. She places $2 on the bar.
[CARA] Mike....say hi to Joe for me. I've got a class I can't be late for again. See ya later.
CARA says, waves and heads out of the bar.
Nathan looks around the parking lot, then he gets out of the car and inspects the area
[Mike] Ok, CJ.
Mike waves then goes back to stocking the back bar.
CARA gets into her truck and heads for the University.
Nathan nods his head, inspecting the scene then re-enters his car and drives off
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Post by cj on Feb 17, 2008 5:33:56 GMT -5
February 14, 2008 CARA is performing a graceful Kata in the Dojo. The place is empty.
The front door of the Dojo opens and a man comes in with a package. “Mrs. McLeod?”
CARA stops in mid movement and looks toward the door.[CARA] Yes? CARA says picking up her towel from the floor nearby and wiping the sweat from her face.
“Got a package for you...need you to sign for it,” the man says.
CARA walks up and takes the clipboard from the man and signs her name then takes the package.[CARA] Thank you. CARA says and looks at the shipping label on the box. She carries the box into the office and takes a box cutter out of the desk drawer and opens the box.
The man leaves
CARA removes some of the Styrofoam packing peanuts from the box and smiles as soon as she sees the heart shaped box underneath them.[CARA] Duncan....you perfect perfect man. CARA says aloud to the empty office. She takes off the cellophane wrapper and opens the box, revealing an assortment of chocolates. She pops one in her mouth and closes the box.[CARA] Mmmmm. CARA says as she chews the chocolate She sets the box on the desk and picks up the small card and reads "You are all the sweets I want. Love, Duncan." She smiles and kisses the card, placing it on top of the box of candy. With a renewed energy she returns to her Kata.
The door opens again and another uniform man come in carry a small flower box..
CARA has just started when she hears the door of the Dojo open again and she stops and turns toward it. Sighing in frustration she picks up her towel and walks toward the man.[CARA] May I help you? “Mrs. MacLeod?” The man asks.
CARA asks trying her best to sound cordial.[CARA] Yes. That's me. CARA answers and looks at him questioningly.
“Package needs to be signed for,” the man says.[CARA] Another one? CARA takes the clip board and signs it, hands it back to the man and takes the box from him.[CARA] Thank you. The man leaves.
CARA says and carries the box into the office. She opens the box to find a single perfect red rose cradled in tissue paper along with a card. She smiles and takes out the card and opens it. "" The red of this rose is put to shame by your wonderful smile, which I hope to see very soon." She puts the card back in the box and lifts out the rose and smells it. Tears of happiness fill her eyes as she is overcome with emotion. She sets the rose back in the box and quickly wipes her eyes with the towel she has draped around her neck.[CARA] I am definitely the luckiest girl in the universe. CARA says aloud to the empty office. She leaves the office and walks back to the spot she had been performing her Kata and drops the towel on the floor.
The door opens again, and a young man comes in, he takes a good long look at her, then clears his throat. "Package for Mrs. MacLeod”
CARA turns back toward the door and giggles..a bit embarrassed. She walks up to the man and holds out her hand for the clipboard.[CARA] I'm Mrs. MacLeod CARA says with pride.
The man hands the clipboard to her, blushing
CARA signs it and hands it back to the young man. She takes the package from him, thanks him and carries it into the office.[CARA] Now what? The young man looks one more time at her and leaves
CARA says feeling like a kid on Christmas morning. She opens the box, revealing a bottle of Dom Perignon and two crystal glasses, both engraved with the MacLeod crest. There's a note card stuffed into one of the glasses and she takes it out. It says, "our love will last forever, and I we will toast to it tonight." She places it back in the box and looks at the clock on the back wall.[CARA] Good. Closing time. CARA says aloud and proceeds to close the Dojo. She then goes upstairs to the loft and gets quickly into the shower. When she finishes her shower she hurries into the bedroom and changes into a black velvet jumpsuit. She hurries into the dining room and gets a couple of white taper candles out of the hutch and places them on the dining room table already draped in a white linen table cloth. She then proceeds to set the table with their good china and silver. She steps back and looks at the table. Satisfied she goes into the kitchen and removes the prime rib roast from the oven, bastes it one more time then transfers it to a serving dish which she takes out to the dining room. She finishes bringing the rest of the meal into the dining room then turns down the lights so the candlelight is intensified and steps back. Satisfied she retrieves the bottle of champaign and places it in a silver bucket she has filled with ice. She sets that next to the chair at the head of the table. She puts the rose in a vase with water and places it in the center of the table. She looks over at the large wooden crate sitting in the middle of the living room and grins mischievously. CARA goes over to the stereo and puts on a CD of Mozart and Chopin and turns the volume down to a romantic level.
Letting himself into the Dojo, Duncan smiles as he heads for the stairs, wondering how she liked the first part of his gift. Getting to the stairs he smells the aroma of meat cooking.
CARA feels the buzz of an Immortal and smiles. She walks over to the end of the sofa and waits.
Duncan opens the door,and stands there for a bit letting his eyes adjust to the dim room. He sees Cara and smiles as he walks over to her.[Duncan] So who are you waiting for?....Your boyfriend? CARA walks up and slips her arms around his waist and looks lovingly into his eyes.[CARA] Better. Much more important than some simple boyfriend. CARA says softly.[Duncan] And who would that be Duncan says kissing her on the nose.[CARA] I'll give you three guesses and the first two don't count. CARA says and stands on her tip toes and kisses him passionately.
Duncan returns the kiss, his tongue pushing against her lips, wanting to taste her.
CARA responds in kind, her tongue darting around his.
Duncan moans deep and finishes the kiss, wanting much more.
CARA lets Duncan end the kiss with reluctance. She places the palms of her hands on his chest and looks up at him, smiling.[CARA] Thank you. CARA says, her voice almost a whisper.[Duncan] Anytime.... Duncan he looks around and is surprised to see the crate in the living room
CARA follows Duncan's gaze and smiles...a mischievous twinkle in her eyes.[CARA] Are you hungry? CARA asks.[CARA] Because dinner's ready. [Duncan] The dinner I smelled all the way up here, and it smells grand...but the crate is pulling me towards it CARA tries to hide a smile.[CARA] You know what they say about curiosity and the cat....right? CARA says teasingly.[Duncan] yes, but satisfaction brought it back..... Duncan says with a smile
CARA giggles. She steps away from him and gestures to the crate.[CARA] Then by all means.... Duncan grins like a kid, he goes over to the crate, he sees that one side has a hinge to it. He opens the other side and looks in. Opening the crate he sees a table 2 ½' tall with scrolled legs made of dark mahogany He looks over at Cara, and then takes the table out of the crate..
CARA follows Duncan over to the crate and stands almost holding her breath as he opens it. She had searched and searched for just the right gift. It was hard to shop for a 400 year old man who basically had everything. But just when she was about to give up she had discovered the contents of the crate.
Duncan eyes widen as he looks at the table. The surface of the table top is a checker board pattern of black onyx and white moon stone and each square is separated by 1/16” strips of gold. Setting on top of the table in the crate is an ornate wooden box. He opens the wooden box carefully..
CARA watches Duncan's expression. She holds her breath.
Duncan looks at her, his eyes showing his enjoyment of the gift. Inside the box he runs his hand over inside are 3” tall chess pieces. One set is carved black onyx and the other is carved white moon stone. The crowns of the kings and queens are made of carved black opal. He says in almost a whisper[Duncan] This is beautiful Cara, thank you seems like such a small word to say. CARA lets out the breath she has been holding and walks over to him.
Duncan puts the box down and goes to her, he takes her in his arms and kisses her....it is a perfect gift.[CARA] I'm glad you like it. CARA says and smiles up at him.[CARA] I cleared a place for it over there under the window. Duncan nods in agreement.
CARA says pointing to the empty spot against the wall of glass bricks and window.[Duncan] Maybe later you can join me in a game? CARA looks at him surprised.[CARA] Me? Against you? That'll be the shortest game in history. It shouldn't take you but a couple of minutes to whip my ass. CARA giggles.[Duncan] But what a lovely ass to whip. What you need is a few more lessons...and I love to give lessons. Duncan grins
CARA sidles up to him, brushes up against him and looks into his eyes seductively.[CARA] I think I might be able to teach you a few things. CARA says in a sultry voice.[CARA] Happy Valentines Day, my love. [Duncan] I love sexy teachers.....wait there, don't move CARA stands still and looks at him surprised.
Duncan walks out of the room and goes into the bedroom, he pulls a box out of the closet. It is wrapped in red valentine paper and a huge red ribbon. He carries it out to the living room.[CARA] Duncan? What are you up to now? CARA looks at the box and then back at him.[CARA] Where did that come from? CARA had given the loft...including the bedroom a thorough cleaning that morning and never noticed the box.[Duncan] Happy Valentines Day to you sweetheart. Why don't you sit down and open this....or wait...we can have dinner first. Duncan smiles at her.[Duncan] I put it in the closet after you searched the house for it. [CARA] Searched....Duncan. I didn't search for anything. Jeez. CARA takes the box from him and sits on the sofa, putting the box in her lap. She unwraps it carefully.[CARA] Beautiful wrapping paper. Duncan he nods in agreement
CARA says as she slips it off of the box. She glances up at Duncan quizzically then lifts the lid of the box, revealing the most beautiful duster she has ever seen.CARA gasps and gets to her feet, removing the coat from the box and holding it up in front of her.[CARA] Oh Duncan. It's gorgeous CARA gushes She slips it on. It fits as though made for her. She runs her hands across the soft suede. Her eyes fill with tears.[CARA] Thank you. CARA says, her voice husky with emotion.[Duncan] When I saw it, I knew if was made for you. I was right. CARA takes the coat off and drapes it across the back of the sofa. She walks up and puts her arms around Duncan's neck, lacing her fingers together.[CARA] You....Are.... CARA starts to say but emotion catches her voice.[CARA] I love you. CARA whispers.
Duncan kisses along her neck and back to her ear.[Duncan] And I you. CARA moans contentedly
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Post by cj on Feb 17, 2008 10:25:40 GMT -5
***Early afternoon*** CARA leaves her clinic in the Zone and flips open her cell phone. She dials Methos' number and waits for him to answer.[Methos] Pierson. [CARA] Methos? It's CJ. Can you meet me someplace? It's important. CARA asks as she pulls out of the clinic parking lot.[Methos] Sorry, I thought it was someone else? I'm kind of busy right now? Can't it wait? CARA sighs disappointedly.[CARA] Well....I suppose. If you're busy. I just think you're going to want to hear this. So call me when you're free. Please? [Methos] Wait, is this REALLY important? CARA nods vigorously as she speaks.[CARA] Yes. Really, really. Methos sighs. " Ok, I suppose I'll have too them."[CARA] You sure? CARA asks a bit timidly.[Methos] Hey, you say it's important But this is about you and MacLeod I'm going to be very upset with you... [CARA] No. I swear. It has nothing to do with my perfect marriage. I wouldn't drag you away from something just to cry on your shoulder. I'm not that self possessed. At least I hope I'm not. CARA says with a giggle.[Methos] Yes, like it never happened... Ok, where to you want to meet? [CARA] You name it. I'm mobile at the moment and can go anywhere. [Methos] Well, you can pick anywhere as long as it has beer. Joe's bar maybe? [CARA] Ok. I can be there in 10 minutes. [Methos] Ok, meet you there. [CARA] Upstairs in the gallery. On my way. CARA hangs up and heads for Joe's Bar. ****10 minutes later*** CARA pulls into the parking lot next to Joe's, parks and gets out of her truck. She notices that Methos' Land Rover isn't in the parking lot so she goes on inside. She walks up to the bar and orders a bottle of beer for Methos and a coke for herself and takes them upstairs to the gallery overlooking the main floor of the bar and takes a seat at a table in the shadows. After several minutes CJ looks at her watch.[CARA] Figures. Fashionably late. CARA whispers to herself and snickers. She takes the list she got from Peggy's apartment out of her pocket and smooths it out on the table in front of her. She takes a sip of her coke and looks down at the bar. She waits 10 more minutes and begins to get worried. After all....anything can happen between him leaving where ever he was and here. Another Immortal....anything. She takes out her cell phone and starts to dial his number again just to make sure.
Methos pulls into the parking lot, still looking everywhere around him. He gets out of the Land Rover and looks around him once again. Then he decides to get inside.
CARA feels a very strong Immortal buzz and hangs up her cell phone before the connection is made. She leans closer to the railing and looks down at the front door of the bar, anxiously.[CARA] Finally. CARA says to herself.
Methos walks inside and feels an Immortal nearby, since the table are empty he looks up.
CARA lifts the bottle of beer so he can see it and smiles down at him.
Methos smiles back, and hurriedly climbs the stairs, until he's standing in front of CJ.[CARA] Bout time. I was getting worried. What did you do? Ride your camel here instead of driving? CARA teases as she sets the beer on the table in front of the empty chair across from her.[Methos] Well, someone was following me, I don't like it, you should know that by know. CARA gets a concerned look on her face and leans forward.[CARA] Followed? Any idea who? [Methos] No, sorry I didn't stop and asked who they were. Methos drinks makes a face, " And after all the trouble I had, I get hot beer?"
CARA grabs the bottle away from him, wrinkles her nose and stands up.[CARA] I'll go down and get you a cold one so quit complaining. CARA says teasingly. She waves her hand in circles in front of her and bows slightly.[CARA] Your wish is my command oh ancient one. CARA teases, a mischievous twinkle in her emerald green eyes.[Methos] What you a musketeer now? Or are just imitating your husband? CARA heads downstairs and orders a cold beer. She grabs a bowl of pretzels off the bar and carries both back upstairs and sets them on the table then reclaims her seat.[CARA] So....is this the first time you've noticed someone following you? CARA asks taking a pretzel out of the bowl and nibbling on it.[Methos] Yeah, yesterday I was unsure of it, but today same black car or another that looked exactly like it... I don't believe in coincidences. CARA shakes her head.[CARA] No. I don't either. Did you happen to get a license plate number? [Methos] No, when I noticed them, I was too busy losing them. But next time I promise to stop and take care of that too. CARA reaches across the table and places her hand on his forearm and looks seriously at him.[CARA] Do me a favor, huh? Be careful. I don't want to lose you. CARA says in a soft voice.
Methos sighs. " Sorry about that, just had a bad day and I'm in a bad mood.[Methos] Shouldn't be taking it off on you, CARA shakes her head.[CARA] You're not. I understand. Being followed right now is nothing to dismiss. Especially now. CARA says enunciating the word especially.
Methos shakes his head, " No, it's something else..."[Methos] What do you mean especially now? CARA looks at him with concern.[CARA] Methos? [Methos] Yes? CARA says in a low, soft voice.[CARA] Do you want to talk about it? The something else that is? [Methos] Well, I just happen to think my time with the Watchers is over, they are looking for an Immortal in their ranks. I knew sooner or later I would have to leave, but... So soon... CARA shakes her head.[CARA] It's not you they're looking for. [Methos] What? CARA says and sits back, removing her hand from his arm and taking another pretzel out of the bowl.[CARA] This is the reason I wanted to see you. I've discovered something I think you might find interesting....if not intriguing. CARA says matter of factly.[Methos] Another Immortal in the Watchers? Never felt one there. CARA nods.[CARA] Ok. Right after I learned about Peggy I went to her apartment and grabbed her laptop so that it wouldn't fall into the wrong hands. I figured I'd give it to Joe when he got back from Mrs. Oaks'. Next to it she had this list. CARA slides the piece of paper she had taken out of her pocket across the table to him.[CARA] Those are names of Watchers that have been killed within the last year by mysterious explosions. CARA takes a drink of her coke.[Methos] Are these guys all Watchers? A name or two rings a bell, but I'm not sure... [CARA] I didn't know that at the time but when I saw Matthew McCormick at the cemetery I started putting the pieces together. CARA nods.[CARA] Yeah. See? She's written their assignments under the names. CARA points to the small writing under each name.[Methos] Well, I'm not a field operative, that would be fun, right? But in research, I never heard most this guys... CARA sits back again.[Methos] And who is this Matthew McCormick anyway? Oh wait, FBI right? He almost had a label... Met him at the cemetery.. CARA nods.[CARA] He's the head of the team that investigates serial killings. And a friend of Mac's. He helped to get Mac's name cleared last year when he was accused of those murders. He's a good guy. I trust him. [Methos] So these guys that are following me are Feds? [CARA] Maybe....maybe not. He told me that someone from Homeland Security took the cases away from him but he was staying on it anyway. CARA leans forward.
Methos breathes a deep sigh of relieve, " Bloody hell, I thought these guys were Watchers, or Hunters...”[CARA] Wouldn't the Tribunal want to investigate this themselves? Keep it inside the organization? [Methos] I'm not exactly thrilled to be followed by the FBI, but the alternative is... They're are keeping it quiet, nobody knows what's going on, can't blame them if the killer is one of them... [CARA] Question....was the vehicle that followed you a car or an SUV? Like yours? [Methos] It was a black sedan, why? CARA lets out a little sigh of relief.[CARA] Well....that eliminates one possibility anyway. CARA takes another drink of her soda.[Methos] What possibility? [CARA] Week before last I was doing my ride along time with the local ambulance company and we got a call to the scene of an explosion at an abandoned warehouse down on the old waterfront. CARA says holding up a finger, signaling him to wait while she explains.[CARA] There wasn't much left of the victim but when we were examining him I noticed he had a tattoo on the inside of his wrist. Bout the only part of him that wasn't charred beyond recognition. So when I got off duty I went back to the scene to try and see if I could find his notebook before the cops did and there was an Immortal already going through the debris. So I waited...watched him then followed him to his motel. I waited until he left his room again and went inside. He had a laptop open and he was logged into the Watcher Database. CARA takes another drink while she lets Methos grasp what she has just told him.[Methos] Wait, wait, wait... You don't expect me to go over this without a beer, do you? I need time to think this over. Maybe you'd be so kind to bring me another one... or two... CARA smiles and stands up.
Methos smiles at her charmingly, while he sprawls on his chair.[CARA] I know.....it gets hard to move around the older you get. CARA teases and playfully smacks him on the shoulder.[CARA] Be right back. [Methos] Why should I move around? When I have a woman here to take care of me? Methos teases her.
CARA disappears down the stairs. She orders 2 more beers and another coke and carries them back upstairs, sets them on the table then sits back down.[CARA] Now if you've finished working me with your charm....may I finish? CARA teases.[Methos] Sure, what's keeping you? CARA wrinkles her nose and sticks out her tongue at him.
Methos shakes his head, " Absolutely no respect."[Methos] I'm shocked... Methos can't keep a straight face anymore, and smiles back at her.
CARA throws a pretzel at him and giggles.[Methos] Well, now that you've distracted me, can we go back to business? [CARA] Anyway..... CARA says clearing her throat and getting serious again.[CARA] Next to the guy's computer was a list of names....Watchers' names...with numbers in front of each name. On top of the list was a pair of dice. The number showing coincided with a name on the list....the name of the victim of the explosion earlier. I couldn't find anything with the guys name on it and I didn't know how long the guy was going to be gone so I didn't want to stick around too long. CARA takes a drink of her coke and nibbles on another pretzel.[Methos] Did you get a good look at him? [CARA] Good enough that I'd recognize him if I ever saw him again. Once I felt the buzz when I pulled up to the warehouse I backed up out of "reach" but I had visual help. CARA nods.[CARA] Yeah. I could definitely recognize him if I saw him. CARA leans forward.[CARA] He drives a dark colored SUV. Looks like Joe's sort of but dark. Like black or dark blue. CARA adds.[CARA] That's why I asked about the vehicle that followed you. Adam Pierson's name wasn't on the list on the guys table but that doesn't mean it couldn't be. CARA remembers something.[CARA] Oh....and Peggy's name was on the list. CARA sits back and takes another drink giving Methos time to digest what she has told him.
Methos sighs, and shakes his head, " Why do I have to think about everything? You saw him, you have Peggy's laptop, just look for him in the database."[Methos] If he's a Watcher he's there. Of course, it would give a lot of trouble, but... [CARA] How would I do a search with just a description? CARA asks quirking an eyebrow.[CARA] Besides....how would he have access....log in access to the database if he wasn't a Watcher? By that time, Methos had finishes his first beer and was starting on the second.[Methos] Well, in theory he could if he got a Watcher, and tortured him or something... But why would he? No, I think this guy might be one of us with a score to settle... And no there's no way of doing a search unless you know the name... Feel like watching pictures? CARA sighs and rolls her eyes.[CARA] I guess that's our only option. Do all of the files on Watchers have pictures? [Methos] No, but you might get lucky. Are you feeling lucky? CARA smirks[Methos] And by the way, don't bother to look for Adam Pierson. [CARA] I have the luck of the Irish....remember? I mean I married the man of my dreams and have you as a best friend. That proves how lucky I am. Methos smiles mischievous at her, " Since today, he's not there anymore."[CARA] You're going to quit? CARA asks surprised.[Methos] Yes, forgot about that... Leprechauns right? I thought I'd have to, no point in leaving them a photo, right? [CARA] Methos that was your protection. If you quit...I mean if Adam quits....they'll assign someone else who might just find you. Then what will you do? CARA says leaning forward and speaking in a soft voice.[Methos] No, changed my mind, I didn't know there was another one, I thought it was me they were after. Got it? How do youngsters say these days? Duh? Continued on Page 2
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Post by cj on Feb 17, 2008 10:29:37 GMT -5
CARA sits back with a victorious grin.
Methos was beginning to tease her again.
[Methos] What? Too much for an old woman like you?
[CARA] Wow! I gotta put this in my diary. I actually got the ROG to change his mind about something. That may never ever happen again.
CARA chuckles and picks up her glass and holds it up as if in a toast.
[CARA] And I may be old but I'm a whole lot younger than you.
CARA winks.
[Methos] And right now, I'm talking as Adam Pierson and...
Methos shakes his head, smiling, " You're old..."
CARA throws another pretzel at him and giggles.
Methos can't keep from laughing out loud anymore.
[Methos] And stop throwing pretzels at me, are you going to clean your mess or what?
CARA gets up and goes over to him and gives him a hug and kiss on his cheek.
[Methos] If Joe was here...
[CARA] I've missed you....you know that?
CARA sits back down.
[Methos] Me?
Methos gives her the Adam Pierson innocent look, ! Why?"
[CARA] No. The dummy on your lap.
CARA smirks.
Methos smirks, " Didn't know I had someone sitting on my lap right now. And a dummy none the less... even if it was a woman...
CARA groans and throws the last 2 pretzels in the bowl at him.
[CARA] Soooo.....what do you want to do?
CARA asks getting serious again.
[CARA] I mean....do you want to just sit on this information? Or do you want me to try and see if I recognize the guy in the files?
CARA leans forward.
[CARA] Or should I do some more sleuthing?
CARA asks softly even though Duncan had told her to stay out of it.
[Methos] Do whatever you like. If this guy comes after me, I'll feel him, if he doesn't why should I care?
CARA shrugs.
[CARA] Ok. I just thought you should know.
[Methos] I don't have to remind you that mortals die anyway, do I?
[CARA] No. We just lost Pegs.....I think I know that.
CARA says sadly and lowers her eyes.
Methos sighs, " Look, if there was something I could do... but I can't OK?”
[Methos] I don't even know the guy.
[CARA] Ok. Just be careful. I couldn't handle......
CARA 's voice cracks and she can't finish her sentence so she looks away.
[Methos] I can take care of myself, don't worry. How do you think I've lived this long?
CARA nods without looking at him and whispers, "I know." She chews on her lower lip as she gets control of her emotions. Finally she looks up at him and manages a small smile.
[CARA] I really do need to get home before Duncan sends out a search party. I told him I would be home an hour ago.
[Methos] Look CJ, don't go looking for revenge, it will bring you nothing. I know.
Methos tells her seriously this time.
CARA nods.
[Methos] Been there, done that.
[CARA] I know. Contrary to popular belief....I do learn from my mistakes.
CARA winks at him...her Irish pride masking her emotions.
[Methos] Are you going to be alright?
[CARA] I'll be fine. Why wouldn't I be?
[Methos] Really? I wonder?
[CARA] What's that supposed to mean?
Methos smiles at her, " Sorry, too good opportunity to miss."
CARA frowns at him.
[Methos] Hey, I said sorry.
[CARA] Me too. I thought you were referring to.....
CARA shakes her head.
[CARA] Never mind.
[Methos] And no more pretzels to throw...
CARA gathers her things up.
Methos shakes his head.
[CARA] Do you want to keep this list?
CARA asks referring to the list she took from Peggy's apartment.
[Methos] Maybe you could give me a copy just in case.
[CARA] That is a copy so it's yours.
CARA gets to her feet.
[Methos] Ok, just don't expect too much.
[CARA] You staying here?
[Methos] I don't know yet, maybe. Joe isn't here, do you think I'll have to pay for the beer?
[CARA] I already did.
[Methos] I mean the next.
CARA walks over, leans down and kisses him on the cheek.
[CARA] I love you....you know that....right?
[Methos] Of course, who wouldn't?
Methos answers her smugly.
CARA straightens up and gives him a sweet smile.
[CARA] Right. I guess I'll talk to you later. Be careful...ok?
CARA says laying her hand on his shoulder.
[Methos] Always. Look, call me if you need any help, OK? Just don't get me in trouble. Or yourself for that matter.
[CARA] Ok. Sla'n
CARA says goodbye in Gaelic and heads for the stairs. She gives him a final smile and heads down the stairs. She walks up to Mike at the bar and pays for another beer for Methos then hurries out of the bar.
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Post by cj on Feb 24, 2008 11:03:00 GMT -5
CARA wakes up as the alarm goes off on her night stand. She reaches over and hits the button on top of the alarm clock without opening her eyes. With a soft groan she gets out of bed, being careful not to wake Duncan who appears to be sleeping peacefully. She slides open her side of the closet and removes a pair of jeans and a western style shirt. She creeps over to her dresser and takes out a pair of socks. With her clothes in her arms she tip toes out of the bed room, grabbing her boots on her way. She lays everything over the back of the sofa and heads for the kitchen where she starts a pot of coffee. She glances up at the clock on the kitchen wall and winces.[CARA] Shit! CARA exclaims in a whisper. She rushes into the bathroom and takes a quick shower.. She dresses in the kitchen as she waits for the coffee to finish brewing. Before the machine drips its last drop she pulls the pot out and fills a travel mug with the hot brew. She gets a small ice cube out of the freezer and drops it into the mug, puts a couple spoons of sugar in it and stirs it then puts on the mug's lid. She puts on her boots on her way to the elevator where she grabs her brief case, new duster and sword and gets into the elevator, heading downstairs. She hurries to the garage, gets into her truck and speeds off towards the Zone and her clinic. CJ works as hard as four people until 11:30am then she begins to watch the clock and time suddenly seems to stand still. Her distraction grows into nervous anticipation and she starts making silly mistakes.
When CJ misplaces her stethoscope for the umpteenth time Asia begins to get concerned. Her boss is usually irritatingly organized and efficient. But for the last hour she has been seriously distracted. Picking up the purple stethoscope off of the desk she carries it into the exam room where CJ is with an elderly homeless woman and hands it to her. She leans close and asks in a soft voice, “Are you OK?”
CARA glances at Asia and smiles sheepishly.[CARA] Yeah. Fine. Why? Asia gives CJ a glance that says she isn't convinced but she decides not to push. Instead she says, “why don't you let me finish up with Mrs. Howell here and you take a break?” Without waiting for an answer she takes the clip board out of CJ's hands and gently...but firmly turns her to face the door of the exam room and gives her an insistent shove.
CARA looks at Asia a bit surprised at her being so pushy then shrugs.[CARA] OK. OK. Don't get pushy. Sheesh! CARA says and giggles.
Asia giggles, too and shakes her head. She turns her attention to her patient.
CARA leaves the room and goes into the break room where she gets a coke out of the fridge and leans against the front of the sink. She takes a long drink of the cold soda and looks up at the clock on the wall. She sighs and takes another drink then pushes off the sink and starts walking begrudgingly out of the break room. She heads for the desk to try and do some charting to make time pass quicker.
Asia comes out of the exam room and looks up from the clip board. Seeing CJ walking towards her, she meets her halfway and says, “so what's up with you this morning?”
CARA stops and looks at Asia.[CARA] What? CARA asks innocently and she gets a mental picture flashes across her mind of Duncan's famous innocent look when he has been up to something and gets caught. She can't help but smile.
Asia sees the smile, although she doesn't understand it, not knowing much about her boss's life outside of the clinic. But she did notice the attempt at innocence and shoots CJ a sarcastic smirk and deliberately bumps into her. “Don't give me that. Did you think I hadn't noticed that your head has definitely been somewhere else than inside your body and inside this clinic? Come on, girl....I'm not that clueless. What's up?” She winks at CJ and says, “you got a hot date or something? Hmmm?”
CARA blushes and shakes her head. She starts heading for the desk again.[CARA] Yeah. Right. A hot date. I'm married....remember? Hot dates stopped the minute I said “I do.” CARA sits down behind the desk and picks up the file folder on the top of the small pile of folders. She opens it and pretends to read the last page.
Asia sits down on the corner of the front of the desk and takes a sucker out of the jar they keep suckers in for the kids. She removes the wrapper and sticks it in her mouth and says, “ Yeah....that goes with the territory. I think it's in the rule book or something. They figure that once they have you bound by a marriage license they don't have to try anymore. I know I don't know your husband all that well....we only met that one time when we got stuck in the meet freezer together and he saved my life. But he struck me as the kind of guy who can be quite charming and romantic.”[CARA] Oh....don't get me wrong. Mac can be very romantic. He's the most swave and deboner guy I know. When he wants to be. CARA says without looking up from the file.
Asia laughs at CJ's smarmy mispronunciation of the words suave and debonair. “So...is that it? Do you and your hubby have a hot date this afternoon or something? Is that why you can't stop watching the clock?” She asks.[CARA] No. Not at all. In fact I probably won't be seeing Mac until later this evening. CARA says smiling and unconsciously glances up at the wall clock.
Asia throws the balled up sucker wrapper at CJ. “Fine,” she pretends to sulk. “don't tell me.”
CARA giggles and flicks the wrapper ball back at Asia.[CARA] It's nothing. CARA shrugs.[CARA] Well....I mean it's something.....something exciting for me. But most likely not anyone else. In fact you'd probably think it was stupid. Asia raises an eyebrow her curiosity spiking higher. “Now you HAVE to tell me,” she says.
CARA giggles.[CARA] Alright. Fine. But I warned you. CARA closes the file and sits back in the chair and looks at Asia.[CARA] I guess I do have a date...kinda. With a big strapping guy. He's gorgeous, athletic, built like a brick shit house....a real looker. He's being brought into town....well actually....to a ranch I bought and renovated just outside of town....this afternoon and I can't wait to see him. And the man who is bringing him. Asia blinks at CJ then gets a skeptical look on her face and says, “why do I get the feeling that this so called date is not what it sounds like?”
CARA giggles again. She reaches across the desk and plucks a purple sucker out of the jar, unwraps it and sucks on it for a few seconds.[CARA] Because....like you said....you are not completely clueless. Asia scowls and says, “no...what I said was that I was NOT clueless...meaning at all. Not that wasn't completely clueless insinuating I am partially clueless.”[CARA] You are a real life geek....you know that? Only a geek....a true dweeb would not only correct my statement but explain her actual statement in such detail. Asia picks up a pen and throws it at CJ. “Oh shut up,” she groans but she is smiling.
CARA ducks sideways so that the pen misses her. She is laughing.[CARA] But you are correct, my dear. The gorgeous male is a year and a half old Andalusian stallion. CARA sits back and closes her eyes, picturing the horse. A blissful smile comes over her face.[CARA] He's 16 hands high...jet black with a mane and tail the same color as my hair. He's awesome. CARA opens her eyes and looks at Asia.[CARA] And he knows it. CARA laughs.[CARA] I can't wait. Asia smiles and says, “he sounds beautiful.”[CARA] You like horses? Asia nods. “I'm not like a horse efficianado or anything. But..yeah.” She crunches the last of her sucker off of the stick and tosses the stick in the trash can. “So you bought a ranch? Does that mean you guys will be moving?”
CARA shakes her head.[CARA] No. First of all....I haven't even told Mac about it yet. I have a plan for the ranch but I want to make sure it is going to work out before I go bragging about it. I don't want him thinking I have these outrageous ideas but never follow through with them. Asia's interest is renewed and she gets off of the desk and grabs a chair used in the “waiting area” and pulls it over next to the desk and sits down. “Yeah> What's you plan?”
CARA seems to gain fuel for verbalizing her idea from Asia's interest.[CARA] The property had a huge main house and two buildings that I suppose were used to house whatever ranch hands they had and I've had the two bunk houses turned into dormitories as well as the second and third floors of the main house and I want to turn the place into either a camp or full time housing for kids that are currently in the foster care system and haven't been assigned foster families. They will all work on the ranch....doing age appropriate jobs to “earn their keep” and they will be able to learn to ride horses....either western or English....and eventually be put in charge of a horse and get it ready for wither show or rodeo. The first floor of the main house has been turned into the dining hall, recreation area and offices for counselors, a doctor and/or nurse, and administrative staff. There is a small house that is currently being remodeled that I figure Mac and I can use if....or should I say when we need to get away from the stress of city life. It's 25 acres about 15 miles outside of town on the north eastern side of town. Continued on Page 2
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