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Post by cj on Feb 24, 2008 11:04:51 GMT -5
Asia whistles. “That's a beautiful area out there. I've gone out there a couple of times just to drive and de-stress.
CARA nods.[CARA] Yeah. That's what I was doing when I discovered this old abandoned ranch that just happened to have been for sale for some time. Needless to say....the owners accepted a low bid for it so I got it for a bargain. Asia looks at CJ with interest. “Did you have this facility for the kids in mind when you bought it?”[CARA] No. I just couldn't pass up the opportunity or the deal. Then after I bought it I was like...OK...now what are you going to do with it? I don't think Mac would ever want to permanently move out of the loft because of it being over his Dojo and he LOVES his Dojo. But I did need someplace for my horse. Then one morning while I was sitting in Starbucks having coffee I was reading an article in the paper about how many kids are in the foster system but that there are not enough foster families and these kids are stuck living in a group facility that sounds like basically an orphanage. And the idea came to me. CARA shrugs and glances up at the wall clock again.
Asia sees the direction of CJ's glance and chuckles. “Look....it's pretty quiet around her now....and you're basically useless right now...no offense....so go ahead and take off,” she says.
CARA's face lights up.[CARA] Really? You wouldn't mind? Asia laughs. “No. Go ahead. Enjoy your reunion. I can handle things here. Besides....Dr. Powers will be in at 2:00 so if we get busy he'll be here.”
CARA doesn't have to be told twice. She gets up and smiles gratefully at Asia.[CARA] Thanks. I owe you one. Asia giggles. “Not even. I owe you. You saved the clinic and are allowing me to run it....you've opened up not only opportunities for the people down here....but for me, too. I definitely OWE you...not you me. Now go....get out of here.”[CARA] Thanks. CARA heads for the break room and takes her lab coat off and hangs it in her locker. She walks out and picks up her brief case from next to the desk, thanks Asia one more time and flies out of the clinic. She gets into her truck and speeds off toward the ranch.
Liam supervises the flight crew as they unload Cara's horse. The young stallion is still a bit groggy from the sedative Liam gave him before they took off so Liam stays close and coaxes the horse into the horse trailer that has puled up next to the plane. Once the horse is secured Liam thanks the flight crew and gets into the driver's seat of the truck the trailer is hitched to and carefully pulls away and drives off of the tarmac. He consults the map that he drew from his daughter's directions and heads for her ranch.
CARA brings her Sport Trac to a stop next to the main entrance of the barn and gets out. She is greeted by her foreman whom she walks with through the barn to the office in the back. She goes inside and walks over to the small refrigerator and takes out a Coke. After taking a big drink she glances at the clock.[CARA] Any word on the flight? CARA asks the foreman.[Todd] Yes, ma'am. The plane landed 10 minutes ago. So providing there were no problems they should be here in the next 30 minutes or so. [CARA] You are saying they. How many guys are coming? Todd shrugs.[Todd] I'm not sure. CARA quirks an eyebrow thinking it kind of strange that he doesn't know since he is usually a stickler for details.[CARA] Didn't whoever you talked to when they landed give any indication? Todd shakes his head and starts busying himself with some paperwork on the top of the desk.
[CARA] I hope they don't get lost.
[Todd] I'm sure they'll find us.
Todd says confidently. Just then a young man comes to the office door and leans in and announces that the hay delivery has arrived so the foreman grabs a clipboard off of a hook on the wall behind the desk and clips a form on it that he has taken out of a desk drawer and excuses himself and heads out of the office.
CARA looks around the cluttered office and toys with the idea of starting to organize it better but she is too anxious about the impending arrival of Blaze that she decides against it. She hurries out of the office, through the barn and to her truck where she gets a pair of leather work gloves out of the tool box in the bed and walks back to where the flatbed trailer is parked, waiting to be unloaded. Without a word she grabs a pair of hay hooks that are hanging on the top railing of the main paddock fence and climbs up onto the top of the load of hay bails on the flatbed as soon as the trucker has removed the tarp. She jams a hook into each end of a bail and raises it off the bail underneath it then heaves it over the side to the ground. One of the four cowboys on the ground follows suit and places the bail onto a forklift pallet.
Todd signs the trucker's paperwork after checking it against his own and then joins CJ on top of the load of hay and together they begin unloading the hay...working as a well choreographed team with the four men on the ground.
***20 minutes later***
Liam sees the white archway with the Kelly green wood carved shamrock at its peek and the words “Nua Tosu`” (New beginnings in Gaelic) carved below it and he smiles. He drives through the archway and follows the paved driveway. As he passes the large main house and sees the white barn ahead he feels the buzz of another Immortal.
CARA feels an Immortal buzz and stops what she is doing in mid motion. She can't imagine who it could be since she hasn't told Duncan anything about the ranch. The only person she has told about it was Asia earlier and she knows that Asia wouldn't say anything to Duncan....they rarely talk. She hears the sound of an approaching diesel engine and looks toward it. Seeing the white pickup and matching horse trailer she forgets for a moment about the buzz and lets her excitement consume her. She finishes tossing the bail of hay to the ground and jams her hooks into the next one. She jumps to the next layer of bails then down to the ground and starts walking toward the truck.
As Liam pulls around the end of the main paddock he sees his daughter walking towards the truck and he grins. When they had spoke on the phone two days ago he hadn't let on that he would be the one delivering her horse. He had wanted it to be a surprise...although that wasn't his only reason for making the trip. He wanted to make sure that Blaze would be transported without any problems because he knew how much the young Andalusian stallion meant to his daughter. He hadn't seen her this fired up over a horse since she was 8 years old and she fell in love with one of the mares he was training for the Grand National Steeple Chase in at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. He brings the rig to a stop and shuts off the engine. He opens the door and starts to get out...slowly.
As CARA gets closer to the truck she is reminded that there is an Immortal either in the truck or nearby it when the buzz becomes more intense and she slows her pace. She tries to see the features of the driver through the slightly tinted windshield but the sun is causing the tint to reflect like a mirror and she only able to see the driver's silhouette She quickly glances behind her to her own truck, gaging the distance in case she may need to make a mad dash for her sword. She hears the door of the truck in front of her open and she comes to a stop...assuming a stalwart stance.
Liam steps around the door into plain view and watches the expression on his daughter's face.
CARA sees who the Immortal is and squeals with glee. She breaks into a full run and when she is a couple of feet from Liam she launches herself at him.
Liam braces himself when his daughters starts to run towards him and catches her as she literally leaps at him.
CARA wraps her arms around Liam's neck and her legs around his waist and smothers him with kisses on both of his cheeks.....giggling all the while.
Liam laughs at his daughter's enthusiasm and is reminded of many similar greetings he had received when she was a child and he would return from an equestrian event or auction that took him off the Emerald Isle. Until now he hadn't realized just how much he had missed those greetings...since they became fewer and fewer as Cara Jean got older becoming nonexistent when she became a teenager. He wraps his arms around her waist, holding her up and revels in her affection.
CARA finally stops and places her hands on his shoulders and leans back just enough so that she can look at him.
[CARA] Did you know you were coming when we talked the other day?
Liam grins and nods his head slightly giving a slight shrug.
[Liam] It may have been forming somewhere in the back of my mind.
Liam's eyes twinkle mischievously.
CARA scowls at him.
[CARA] You talked to Todd when you landed....right?
Liam looks at her thoughtfully for a fews seconds.
[Liam] If that's your foreman's name....yes I did.
[CARA] Did he know who he was talking too?
Liam quirks an eyebrow then a smirk begins to creep across his face.
[Liam] He was sworn to complete secrecy.
Liam says fighting to hold back a chuckle.
CARA unwraps her legs from around him and lets go of his neck, sliding to the ground. She turns and looks back in the direction of the flatbed truck.
[CARA] POWELL!
CARA calls out.
Todd looks toward his boss and waves to let her know that he heard her then he climbs down the remaining bails of hay and jumps to the ground. He heads toward CJ.
CARA steps away from Liam and when Todd is close enough that she won't have to yell to communicate with her foreman she puts her hands on her hips and stands with her feet slightly apart.
Liam can't help but feel a sense of awe along with his usual pride as he watches his daughter. Even though she is only 5”4” tall....the pose she has just struck makes her look authoritatively formidable.
[CARA] Remember how you had asked for next weekend off so you could attend your sister's wedding?
Todd nods and comes to a stop a couple of feet from CJ.
[Todd] Right and you said if I found someone to cover on Saturday......
Todd starts to repeat CJ's response to his request 4 days ago.
CARA holds up her hand to stop Todd.
[CARA] Well forget about it. You're not only working Saturday but you'll also be attending the show in Olympia on Sunday.
Todd 's expression slowly begins to change to a frown.
CARA looks back at Liam and waves for him to follow her then turns toward the barn. As she steps past Todd she almost comes to a stop and, without looking up at him, says in a soft voice that is almost a whisper, “that's just the beginning of how you're going to pay me back for with holding vital information.” Then she continues stepping past him.
Todd stares at the back of CJ's head and holds out his hands as a panhandler would.
[Todd] Hey! That's not completely fair, boss. When he told me who he was and then told me not to spoil his surprise.....I mean how could I turn him down?
Todd looks back at Liam hoping the man will corroborate his story.
Liam takes a couple of long strides and as he passes by Todd he places a hand on the young man's shoulder and gives him a look that says, “don't worry. I'll handle this”.
[Liam] Hold on Cara Jean. He speaks the truth. It was my idea.
CARA continues her purposeful yet relaxed “stroll” towards the barn and without looking back at either man says, “yes. But I sign his paychecks....not you. Ever heard the old saying, “never bite the hand that feeds you”?” she says to both of them.
Continued on Page 3
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Post by cj on Feb 24, 2008 11:06:00 GMT -5
Todd shoves his hands in his pockets and looks down at a worn spot of his suede boots. He had had a feeling that keeping his boss's father's secret was going to come back and bite him in the ass but he had ignored that feeling. “Always go with your first instinct, Powell,” he thinks to himself.
Liam continues to follow his daughter, steadily, but casually, catching up to her. Cara Jean's question sparks a flash of past memories...in particular hearing himself say that exact thing on many occasions. He hides a smile as he realizes that he really can't fault his daughter for it when she obviously learned it from him. On the other hand he is filled with a sense of accomplishment in realizing that the lessons he had tried to instill upon his daughter had been heard and retained.
Todd follows Liam and CJ in silence.
When CARA is with communications range of the men still unloading the flatbed she stops and whistles shrilly to get their attention. She points to two of the men on the ground and motions for them to join her as she says, “Chuck? Terry? Go with Todd.” Then she turns and looks at her foreman and says, “will you guys unload the trailer, please?”
Todd nods and says, “yes, ma'am,” then turns around and heads to the back of the trailer.
Liam walks up to his daughter and puts his arm around her shoulders. He looks down at her with a smile.[Liam] Don't you think you are being a bit hard on the guy? I mean....I kinda put him between a rock and a hard spot. CARA looks up at her father.[CARA] It may not sound like anything really important, Da'. But I need these guys' loyalty. Not because of any kind of delusions of grandeur. CARA steps out from under his arm and her expression takes on an intense seriousness.[CARA] What if it hadn't been you he talked to? What if it had been another Immortal fishing for information about me and trying to set up a meet to take my head? Even though these guys don't know about me....I still need to know that their loyalties are going to be with me and that they aren't going to give out any information about me or be an unwitting accomplice in setting a trap for me. I'm surprised you, of all people, don't realize that is my motivation. Liam looks down at her and raises an eyebrow questioningly.[Liam] What do you mean...of all people? [CARA] You were the same way. I mean....at the time...since I didn't know about you or myself...I didn't understand. I thought you were just an overbearing strict boss....and parent. Now I understand and now...when I look back...I can see that it was two fold. That you had not only their loyalty and respect but they also had yours. Every man who worked for you would have died for you and they didn't even know what you were. Liam smiles and looks at the ground, nodding.[Liam] And that loyalty encompassed both you and your mother. CARA nods. She steps closer and says in a low voice only for his ears, “besides....I'm not so heartless as to prevent Todd from going to his sister's wedding. I just wanted him to think I would because he will remember it the next time.” She winks.
Liam looks back at her and smirks. He leans down and kisses her on top of her head and whispers, “you may not have my DNA....but you are definitely my daughter.”
CARA feels her cheeks heat up as a blush colors them. Suddenly she hears the angry and frightened whinnies of her horse and she looks toward the horse trailer. Blaze has been taken out of the trailer and has been lead a few yards away from the trailer but, for some reason, has chosen to fight the man holding his lead rope. He is rearing up and fighting against the lead.
Liam follows her gaze.[Liam] What the hell? Liam says in a soft voice.
CARA starts walking towards the melee. After taking a few steps she sees the man holding Blaze's lead rope and, fighting to regain control of the situation, grabs the few feet of excess rope and strikes the stallion with it. CJ becomes incensed and quickly closes the distance between her and her horse. Without a word she snatches the rope from the man's hands and gives the surprised man a taste of his own medicine then she turns her attention to Blaze and, slackening the amount of rope between her hands and Blaze's chin, begins talking to him in a soft, soothing voice. After a few minutes Blaze recognizes her voice and stops rearing up. He turns so that he can look at the source of the familiar voice and, even though there is still the fire of anger and fear in his eye, he begins to visibly relax. Once she has the stallion calmed down she turns to the man who had been leading Blaze and in a soft and calm, yet stern voice says, “you're fired!” She turns to Todd and says, “give him his final check and see that he leaves the property A.S.A.P.”
Todd nods and puts his hand on the shoulder of the man who looks like he is about to protest and steers him toward the barn.
CARA turns back to Blaze, steps up and, after removing her work glove from one hand, reaches up and begins rubbing his soft muzzle, whispering more soothing words. She then leads him to the barn and places him in the stall she has prepared for him. As she is latching the gate of the stall, the man she has just fired walks out of the office, followed closely by Todd. When Todd is adjacent to her she says, “from now on....absolutely no one but you and I touch him. Understand?”
Todd nods silently.[CARA] And if you ever see anyone ever strike any horse on this ranch....fire them immediately. No exceptions. Ever. I will not allow any horse in my care to ever be beaten into submission. Is that clear? [Todd] Yes, ma'am. Todd says in total agreement. He excuses himself with a nod and continues to follow the fired man to make sure he leaves the property without incident.
Liam walks up and stands next to his daughter, leaning his forearms on the top of the stall gate.[Liam] I should have unloaded him. Liam says softly.
CARA shakes her head.[CARA] I don't think there's been any permanent harm done, Da'. Besides....I'd rather SEE something like this happen so I can handle it quickly and get rid of perpetrator CARA looks at Blaze, watching him as he sniffs the hay feeder mounted on the wall then takes a tentative bite of the fresh alfalfa.[CARA] He's going to be fine. CARA turns and looks up at Liam.[CARA] Thanks, Da' [Liam] For what? Liam asks looking down at her.[CARA] For bringing him. I'm glad you're here. Liam puts his arm around her shoulders and steers her out of the barn and towards the truck and trailer he had brought Blaze in.[Liam] You're welcome. But....before you start getting the wrong idea....which you probably already have....I'm not here to stay, Angel. CARA comes to an abrupt stop and looks up at her father.[CARA] What do you mean? Liam looks down at her and places his hands on her shoulders.[Liam] Just what I said. I'm not here to stay. I just wanted to make sure that Blaze made it to you unharmed. Now that that's done....and I see what you are doing here....with all of this.... Liam waving his arm in a sweeping gesture indicating the ranch.[Liam] .....I'll be leaving. CARA feels a lump growing in her throat. She looks up at her father, hurt and disappointment in her green eyes.[CARA] But.....why, Da'? Why can't you stay? At least for a few days? I know that Duncan would love to see you. Liam sighs.[Liam] When I visited you in Ireland I hadn't intended on it being an extended stay and I left several things undone. I stayed because I promised you I would look after Blaze if you decided to come home and reclaim your marriage. Now that things are tied up here....I need to get back to my own responsibilities. [CARA] But.... CARA begins to protest.
Liam, with one hand still on her shoulder, raises a finger to stop her from finishing her protest.[Liam] There are people who have been relying on me.....counting on me to finish what I started. I can't just turn my back on them. Besides.... Liam looks off into space...in the direction of the city.[Liam] I'm just not ready to come back and deal with certain reminders. The wound is closing...but slowly. Liam says sadly.
CARA puts a hand on Liam's arm.[CARA] She's gone, Da'. Liam looks down at her.[Liam] Who is? [CARA] Wyn. She's no longer in Seacouver. She packed up and left without a word to anyone. Liam 's expression is one of concern and curiosity.[Liam] No one knows where she went? She just left out of the blue? Liam finds it hard to fathom his ex-fiance being that impulsive but then she had changed. She had left for Wales the woman he had come to love and trust and returned a completely different person who had been unfaithful....something she never would have entertained before she left for Wales. He had had a lot of time to think about the events preceding her trip to Wales and those after her return and he had finally come to a theory that, somehow, Draco Maen's Quickening had effected her....changed her. And he had also, finally, found acceptance of their engagement coming to an end and even found a way to forgive her for her infidelity. But it still felt like a hot poker being shoved through his heart when he thought about it and the thought of seeing the places they had gone together....or worse....running into her or her Dr. Adams left a bad taste in his mouth. He knows that in time....something an Immortal has a lot of....his wound would heal and he would be able to face the constant reminders Seacouver held....even face her....but not yet.
CARA is nodding her head.[CARA] Basically. I talked to her about a month before she left and even though she didn't say anything about definitely leaving.... But after I heard she had left....I wasn't surprised. [Liam] Why is that? [CARA] She needed to go someplace where she wouldn't have people who thought they knew what was best for her giving her advice about something they had no understanding of. Somewhere she could shut out the world around her...where she could focus on her needs...not the ones that well meaning friends think she needs.....focus on who she is....who she wants to be and where that person is headed. Liam looks at her, confused.[CARA] Da'.....when Wyn killed Maen...she got his darkness with his Quickening. Liam gets a look of shock and concern on his face.[CARA] It wasn't an actual Dark Quickening.....but I guess it would be similar. She has been fighting the effects since she came back to Seacouver but she wasn't winning the battle. [Liam] What about her doctor? Wasn't he the one who helped you with yours? And Duncan with his? Continued on Page 4
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Post by cj on Feb 24, 2008 11:07:12 GMT -5
[CARA] Yes.....he was. But I guess he was too close to be any help to her. Or maybe the darkness inside of her was too strong to allow her to accept his help. In any case he was being more of a hindrance than a help. She needed to go someplace where she could deal with it herself...in her own way. Whatever darkness she got from Maen will be a part of her for the rest of her life and she needs to figure out who that has made her...and how to accept it and deal with it. Figure out how to turn it into something useful. She couldn't do that with everyone interfering. Duncan was going to let her stay in his cabin on his island because it is Holy Ground and she would be safe while she was in a vulnerable state...but I guess she had a better place in mind. She'll be alright, Da'. She's a strong person. She can fight this....handle it. She'll be ok. Liam nods in agreement.[Liam] I'm sure she will. She hasn't survived as many years as she has if she wasn't a survivor. Liam smiles down at his daughter as though reading her thoughts. He flicks the end of her nose.[Liam] And so will I. [CARA] I know. Isn't there anything I can say to change your mind about leaving? CARA asks hopefully.
Liam shakes his head.[Liam] I told you....I have some unfinished business I need to take care of. I couldn't live with myself if I let the people I gave my word to down. It's not who I am. You know that. CARA nods and looks down at the ground.[CARA] Are you talking about Annie Devlin? CARA asks. Duncan had told her about Annie Devlin and the type of woman she was back when he knew her...and appeared to still be.
Liam places the tip of his finger under his daughter's chin and lifts her face so he can see into her eyes.[Liam] Yes....Annie and others. [CARA] What has she gotten you into, Da'? [Liam] I see you've been talking to your husband. And you're making a judgment based on what he told you....right? CARA shrugs.[CARA] I know that she lives to fight a cause that sometimes she instigates so that she has something to fight. I'm just afraid she'll get you hooked up in something that is going to get you killed. [Liam] But you're not judging anyone unfairly, are you. Liam says as more of a statement of fact than a question.[CARA] I just think that you got involved with her on the rebound. I just don't want to lose you is all. [Liam] You're right, Angel. I did. At first. But I haven't been on the rebound, as you put it, for quite a while now. I'm doing what I'm doing, now, because I believe in the outcome....and because I gave my word to others that I would see it through. I would keep my word whether Annie was involved or not. [CARA] So....you're not WITH her, then....right? Liam chuckles and shakes his head. He takes his daughter's hand and holds it as he starts walking slowly towards the truck he came in.[Liam] No, you nut. I'm not WITH Annie Devlin. And I never would be for three reasons. Number one...she's not my type. Number two....it took me over 100 years to be ready to love again after losing your mother so I doubt I will be ready to try it again for awhile. A LONG while. Number three.....I'm never going to try having a relationship of any kind with another of your husband's exes. Liam stops at the drivers door of the truck. He opens the door and turns to face his daughter.[Liam] Now....I have a plane to catch, young lady. Do I need to worry about you throwing a fit here? Liam asks partly teasing.
CARA shakes her head and puts her arms around his neck. She kisses his cheek and hugs him tight.[CARA] If I thought it would do any good I would but I know it won't. Just....please daddy....please take care of yourself. And make me one of those promises you ALWAYS keep. [Liam] What? Liam whispers into her hair.[CARA] Keep in touch with me so I know that you're alright. That you're out there somewhere and someday will be back. Liam smiles and hugs her tighter.[Liam] On your sainted mother....I swear. Liam lets her go and looks down into her eyes.[Liam] I promise, Angel. I will be back. Someday. Liam gets into the truck and looks back at her.[Liam] And now it's your turn. Promise me that you will stay out of trouble and stay safe, yourself. I want to know that I have a reason to come back when I can. CARA smiles as she fights back the tears that are burning her eyes and threatening to spill down her cheeks.[CARA] I promise, Da'. Liam pulls the door closed and rolls down the window. He reaches out and flicks the end of her nose again and says, “Go dtuga na leipreachána aire duit.” (may the Leprechauns watch over you.) He starts the engine and blows a kiss to his daughter then slowly turns the truck and trailer around and drives away.
CARA 's tears win their battle and spill down her cheeks as she watches the back of the truck and trailer until it is completely out of sight. Then she walks over to her own truck, opens the passenger door and gets a tissue out of the glove box and wipes her face and blows her nose not wanting the men to see that she's been crying. Then she heads back toward the barn but stops by the near empty flatbed.[CARA] You guys need some help with the rest of that? CARA asks but they all say no so she goes into the barn and walks up to Blaze's stall.[CARA] You settling in, big boy? CARA asks the stallion. He raises his head, looks at her then tosses his head up and down as if to say yes.[CARA] You going to be OK tonight? CARA asks and Blaze tosses his head again and snorts.[CARA] Ok. I promise I'll be back tomorrow. You're not alone. Todd will be here a few of the men and there are 4 other horses in here. Although I realize that you think every other horse in the universe is your minion but you need to remember that you're the new guy here. So cut them some slack. You know? I mean face it, dude.....we can't all be perfect. If we were than those of you that are wouldn't stand out. You wouldn't be special anymore. CARA says with a snicker. The stallion snorts loudly and paws at the stall floor. CJ laughs at him. [CARA] Hold that thought. I'll be right back. CARA says and walks over to a large storage bin next to the office. She lifts the lid and picks up the large scoop laying inside and fills it with the fresh oats in the bin. She carries the filled scoop back to Blaze's stall and empties it into the other feeder.[CARA] Here, you big baby. I guess you deserve this after the traumatic day you've had. CARA says sarcastically. She returns the scoop to where she found it and closes the lid of the bin. She walks back over to the stall and watches Blaze as he sticks his nose into the feeder and begins eating the oats.[CARA] I'll bring you an apple tomorrow. Deal? CARA waits for the stallion to acknowledge her promise, watches him a few minutes longer to make sure he really is alright then leaves the barn and heads for her truck. As she is getting into her truck she sees Todd coming from the back of the smithy barn and she flashes her headlights to get his attention. When he comes up to her she finishes getting into the truck, closes the door and rolls down the window. She starts the engine then looks at her foreman before putting the truck into gear.[CARA] By the way.....make sure you sneak me out a piece of wedding cake. Todd quirks an eyebrow in question.[Todd] Huh? [CARA] Saturday? Your sister's wedding? A piece of wedding cake? My sweet tooth? Todd suddenly realizes what she is saying and looks at her gratefully.[Todd] Thanks, boss. I really am sorry about this morning. You can be sure....I will not make the same mistake again. [CARA] So we're on the same page now? [Todd] Definitely! Todd says with conviction.
CARA nods her acknowledgment and puts her truck in gear.[CARA] Blaze seems to be settling in Ok but if you want you can check on him later just to be sure. Call me if he starts to seem other than Ok. I gave him some oats and I'll be back tomorrow and I'll bring a bag of apples for him. [Todd] Ok, boss. Don't worry...he's in god hands. [CARA] See you tomorrow. CARA says and closes the window as she pulls away and heads back to Seacouver.Continued on Page 5
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Post by cj on Feb 24, 2008 11:11:59 GMT -5
Duncan picks up the soup bowl from the table where he was sitting, goes into the kitchen and washes out the bowl. He puts the bowl in the dishwasher opens the fridge and takes out a beer and walks into the living room Walking over to the couch, sits down and takes a sip of the beer. Leaning his head back on the couch he lets out a long sigh.
CARA parks her truck in the garage, gets out and heads into the building. She goes to the elevator and keys for the car. She gets in and as it ascends she feels the exhaustion that has been building since she started her grueling schedule. The elevator comes to a stop and CARA steps out when the door is only halfway open. She takes off her coat and hangs it on the coat rack and sets her sword below Duncan's in the rack by the door.
Duncan doesn't even look up.[Duncan] Another late class? Duncan says still not looking up.
CARA looks over at Duncan.[CARA] No. I didn't have a class tonight. You did get my message....right? CARA asks a bit surprised that he doesn't know her class schedule by now.[Duncan] Yes, you said you would be late. Duncan doesn't say it, but the word late again was hanging there.[CARA] Good. Have you eaten? Would you like me to fix you something? CARA asks...aware of the tension in the air.[Duncan] I had some soup, so don't bother on my account. Duncan sits up and looks at her.[Duncan] So where were you? [CARA] I was working on a project of mine. Duncan? Is something wrong? CARA asks leaning across the back of the chair at the end of the sofa she has been standing behind.[Duncan] Cara, have you noticed that we don;t see a lot of each other. Your at the clinic at school, and your "project".' Duncan stands up and drinks some more beer and goes into the kitchen. He comes out with a glass of wine for her.[Duncan] I'm beginning to feel like we are more roommates then a husband and wife. I'm not talking about sex, I'm talking about being together. Duncan sits down on the couch again.
CARA watches Duncan as he goes into the kitchen and as he returns to the sofa. When he has sat back down she moves in front of Duncan and straddles his lap. She takes his hands in hers and gently pins them against the back of the sofa while looking into his eyes...her own filled with love and seduction.[CARA] Awww......is Duncan feeling neglected? CARA says in a seductive voice.[Duncan] At times yes. It's like your always doing something, and I'm really not needed in your life. I miss you. CARA is up on her knees, still straddling his lap and holding his hands against the back of the sofa and she leans into him so that he is forced against the back of the sofa and has to look up at her. She leans down and begins kissing his neck just below his earlobe.
Duncan feels a shiver run through him as her lips tease his neck ever so softly. As much as he wants to talk to her seriously he is finding it difficult to concentrate on his thoughts. A moan escapes him. He laces his fingers with hers and gently forces her arms behind her back, wrapping his own around her waist and pulling her back enough so that he can see her face.
CARA looks down at him questioningly.[CARA] What? [Duncan] Have you been staying gone because of something I've done? Or haven't done? Duncan asks in a soft voice as he looks up into his wife's eyes.
CARA blinks in surprise at his question.[CARA] No, baby. Not at all. [Duncan] You're sure? CARA lets herself sit on his lap.[CARA] Yes. I'm sure. I'm sorry that I've been neglecting you. I never meant to. I guess I've just been so wrapped up with everything I've got going. I'm really sorry. Duncan lets go of her arms. He reaches up and gently moves a lock of her hair that has fallen across her face.[Duncan] You know.....I actually thought...just for a moment...that you might have found someone else. Of course I know better than that. But you leave early in the morning and, most of the time you don't come home until late then you stay up half the night studying. CARA looks shocked at his revelation for a few seconds then she places her hands on the sides of his face and leans in, giving him a loving kiss.[CARA] You crazy nut. CARA says when she breaks off the kiss. She smiles sweetly.[CARA] I love you. Only you. Duncan feels a bit foolish. He pulls her to him and holds her close.
[Duncan] I know. I said it was just for a moment. I guess I just got used to you being around all the time.
CARA runs her fingers through his long hair and turns her head and nibbles on his earlobe.
[CARA] I am so sorry, baby.
CARA whispers.
Duncan feels another shiver sweep through him. He leans back a little bit and turns his head so the his lips catch hers when she leans in to nibble on his ear some more. He kisses her passionately, his hands running over her back.
CARA returns his kiss with equal passion.
Duncan places his hands on her buttocks and gets to his feet, lifting her as he does, and he carries her into the bedroom without breaking the kiss. He lays her on the bed and lays down, partly on top of her and partly on the bed. he breaks off the kiss and begins to slowly unbutton her blouse as he kisses her newly exposed skin...moving downward with each button he unbuttons.
CARA feels her body begin to respond and she lightly runs the tips of her fingernails over his bare back.
[CARA] Mmmmm
CARA moans contentedly.
Duncan makes love to his wife until they both collapse on their backs, out of breath and spent.
CARA lays on her back and closes her eyes as she concentrates on catching her breath. every muscle in her body feels like melted butter. She is smiling....completely satisfied.
Duncan finally gets his breathing under control and he turns on his side, propping himself up on one elbow and looks at Cara. He brushes some hair from her face.
[Duncan] You're amazing.
Duncan says softly.
CARA opens her eyes and looks at Duncan.
[CARA] I am?
Duncan chuckles softly and nods his head. H runs the tip of his finger down her sternum softly.
[Duncan] Yes. You are. Every time I make love with you it's like I was making love with you for the first time.
Duncan says almost whispering.
CARA reaches up and places the palm of her hand against his cheek.
[CARA] If I'm amazing it's because of you.
Duncan looks into her eyes.
[Duncan] How do you figure that?
[CARA] You make me want to be the best I can be. Whatever I am I am because you love me the way you do.
CARA says smiling.
Duncan feels enveloped by the love he sees in her eyes. Like being wrapped in a warm blanket. He leans over and kisses her softly on her lips.
CARA closes her eyes and moves her hand from his cheek to the back of his neck and returns his kiss.
Duncan ends the kiss and raises back up on his elbow. He takes her hand in his and laces his fingers with hers then lifts it and kisses the back of her hand.
[Duncan] So....just what exactly has been keeping you so busy besides your clinic in the Zone and school?
Duncan asks softly.
CARA smiles and lays her head back on her pillow. She looks at him and her eyes twinkle playfully.
[CARA] Well....if you must know.....
Duncan closes his eyes and kisses the back of her wrist.
[Duncan] I must.
Duncan whispers as he kisses her arm a few inches above her wrist.
[CARA] Well....you were partly right. I have been spending the time I'm not at the clinic or in class with a gorgeous male.
Duncan stops in the middle of kissing her arm just below her elbow. He opens his eyes and looks at her, raising an eyebrow in a silent question.
CARA sees that she has achieved the reaction she was going for. She hides a grin and rolls her head back on her pillow so she is looking at the ceiling then she closes her eyes.
[CARA] Yeah. He's tall....very dark with red hair...the same shade as mine. He has massive muscles....so sleek....and strong. And fast? I haven't actually seen him run full out but I am confident that he will fly like the wind once he is let loose. He's very intelligent..but a jokester. He loves to play around. Sometimes I think he would rather play games than work.
CARA chuckles softly.
Duncan lays her arm back down on the bed and releases her hand. His head propped against his hand of the arm he is propped up on and watches his wife's face intently.
[CARA] He understands me....you know? I talk to him about all sorts of things....some very personal and he listens. Never judging me. And I know that what I tell him he will take to his grave.
CARA opens one eyelid just enough to be able to peer through her eyelashes without looking like she has opened her eyes. She sees that she has Duncan's undivided attention and smiles inwardly. She decides that she had better not take this too far or the current mood might be ruined. Without a word she rolls over and gets up from the bed and retrieves her jeans from the floor. She carries them back to her side of the bed and removes something from the pocket and tosses them onto the chair next to the bed. She lays back down on the bed, turning on her side so that she is facing Duncan and holds out the photograph she got out of her pants pocket.
[CARA] His name is Ha Cokaya Peta but I just call him Blaze.
Duncan takes the photograph from his wife without looking at it at first as he is still intently studying her face.
CARA says. (Ha Cokaya Peta = Midnight Flame in Lakota)
Duncan turns his gaze to the photograph and finds himself looking at an exquisitely unique jet black Andalusian with a mane and tail the exact same color as his wife's. He stares at the picture...speechless...caught completely off guard...for several seconds then looks at Cara.
[Duncan] A horse. You were describing a horse.
Duncan says as if needing confirmation.
CARA can no longer contain herself and breaks into a grin...her eyes bright and full of mischievous fireworks.
[Duncan] Oh. You think that's funny...huh?
Duncan says as he tosses the picture down to the foot of the bed. He quickly raises up and grabs her sides, leaning over her and begins tickling her.
[Duncan] Yeah? You think it's funny?
Duncan asks with a chuckle as he tickles her.
CARA squeals and giggles and tries to wriggle out from under him.
[CARA] Stop. Don't. Quit, Mac.
CARA pleads through her laughs and squeals.
[Duncan] Stop what?
Duncan laughs without stopping.
[Duncan] Don't what, Cara? Hmmm
Duncan goads
CARA is laughing so hard tears are trickling down her face.
[CARA] Please.....stop. Alright. I'm sorry. Stoooopppp!!!
[Duncan] You want me to stop? Hmmm?
[CARA] Yes....yes....please.
CARA pleads through her giggles.
[Duncan] Really?
[CARA] Yes....please.
[Duncan] Then what do you say? Hmmm? You know what you need to say.
[CARA] Mac..please....
[Duncan] Nope. that's not it.
Duncan teases.
[Duncan] Hmmm?
Duncan tilts his head as though listening for something.
[Duncan] What was that? I can't hear you.
Duncan moves his fingers to the spot along her sides that is the most ticklish.
[Duncan] I'm waiting.
[CARA] Alright. Alright. Uncle. Uncle.
Duncan chuckles victoriously and lets her go.
[Duncan] That's what i thought you said.
CARA grabs a small throw pillow that is leaning against the headboard and smacks him with it.
Duncan quirks an eyebrow.
[Duncan] Still want to play?
Duncan asks in a menacing voice.
CARA is just about to smack him with the pillow again and quickly rethinks it.
[CARA] No.
Duncan takes the pillow out of her hand and tosses it off the bed. He grabs her and pulls her to hi9m and kisses her passionately for several seconds then leans back and looks at her.
[Duncan] So I have been replaced by a horse. Well I suppose there could be worse things to have as competition.
Duncan says thoughtfully.
CARA playfully smack his shoulder.
[CARA] Yeah. Right. As if you have anything to worry about.
CARA says sarcastically and rolls her eyes.
[Duncan] I take it my competition is here? In Seacouver?
Duncan asks, moving some hair out of her face.
CARA nods.
[CARA] Yes. He arrived this afternoon.
[Duncan] Arrived where? Where are you boarding him at?
[CARA] I'm not. He's living at the ranch.
CARA answers knowing that she is going to have to explain in more detail.
[Duncan] The ranch? What ranch?
[CARA] The ranch I bought a couple of weeks after I got back to Seacouver.
Duncan scoots up so that he is sitting with his back against the headboard. he folds his arms across his chest and looks at her.
[Duncan] Go on. I'm listening.
CARA feels chilly from the night air against her skin and she wriggles her way under the covers and sits with her back against the headboard, the covers over her chest. She then launches into her explanation.
Duncan listens intently as Cara tells him about her idea and its implementation and brings him up to date with the project that has seemed to consume her for the past few months. The more he hears the more he feels himself fill with pride.
CARA finishes her explanation by saying, "I named it Nua Tosu'." (New Beginnings in Gaelic)
Duncan looks at her in silently for several seconds....studying her face as though memorizing her every feature. Finally he takes her chin in his hand and gently pulls her towards him as he leans towards her and places a kiss on her lips.
[Duncan] Like I said....you are amazing.
CARA 's cheeks blush and she smiles almost shyly.
Duncan reaches over and switches off the light on his night stand and slips under the covers himself. He slides down in the bed, pulling Cara down with him. He pulls the covers up so that she is covered and holds her in his arms.
[Duncan] I love you, Cara Jean MacLeod.
Duncan says softly in the darkness.
CARA snuggles up against him, laying her head on his chest.
[CARA] I know. And I love you.
CARA whispers. She falls asleep listening to the rhythm of his heart beat.
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Post by cj on Mar 7, 2008 15:42:31 GMT -5
Coach…how he hated flying coach. It was full of whiny kids, chattering people and not even a decent meal to pass the time. Clayton glowers at the woman who sits right next to him as she chats about her sister’s daughter’s achievements on the seventh grade debate team. She doesn’t seem to notice that her listener isn’t listening, and just unravels some more yarn and continues to knit as she talks. He is distracted for a moment from his dislike of the prattling woman as a kid sitting behind him kicks his chair for the umpteenth time in the last hour. He turns and glares at the kid over his shoulder before he turns his attention to the window and his God-like view of the earth below. He wishes he could put these annoying, bothersome mortals in their places…and he would…someday. His mission needed completion first.
“Mark Stykes.” Clayton murmurs to himself as he pictures the young watcher’s face. The Watcher’s Organization would have another casualty before tomorrow was over. That’s why he chose to fly rather then drive so as his mission could be completed that much faster. Besides…it’s not like it was his money he used to book passage. He’d stolen some poor chap’s wallet and used his credit card to book the flight. If only the limit would have been higher he would be flying first class right now. It didn’t matter that he’d killed the man for his money…he’d been a mortal. Mortals were beneath him. Clayton glares out the window; angry at…he couldn’t place what he was actually angry at. He was angry at the world in general. He feels his seat kicked from behind again. If it was up to him, these mortals would be at his beck and call. They should be made to serve. They would be made to serve if he had anything to say about it.***Later that day*** Clayton exits the airport in Olympia carrying his briefcase, and a single bag slung over his shoulder. He didn’t trust any personal belongings to be stowed beneath the plane, so he always kept his stuff on him. He puts on his shades and hails a taxi to take him to the nearest, cheapest hotel. He had a job to do…and he was about to up the anti. ***That night*** Clayton settles down in front of his laptop with a greasy bag of fast food. He flips the top open and scans the page that he’d kept up earlier, detailing the information on Mark Stykes. He reread the material once more, cataloging important facts in his mind for later. Satisfied that he wasn’t going to have a problem with Mark, Clayton went to work putting together his newest bomb masterpiece. He wasn’t making a car bomb. On the plane ride to Olympia, he decided to step it up a bit. He was letting these Watchers off too easily by blowing them up outright. They deserved to suffer for their transgressions. ***Next morning*** The next morning brought a smile to Clayton’s face before he even gets out of bed as he thinks about the justice he is going to have. He gets up and methodically showers, brushes his teeth and dresses as if it were a normal day. After he finishes he grabs his shoulder bag and dumps out his spare clothes. He begins to fill the bag with things he’ll need for later, and he smiles evilly. When everything is packed he swings the bag over his shoulder, closes his laptop and grabs the bomb he’d constructed the night before. This was a special bomb; unlike his car bombs it was harmless until he put the right wires together on location. With a quick glance around his hotel room he leaves, locks the door and heads outside. Lacking transportation, Clayton makes his way toward a nearby alley. He scans the area with his dark eyes, looking for possibilities. After walking forward about fifty feet he sees a jeep that seems to be abandoned. With a quick glance all around him he quickly makes his way to the jeep, throws his bag into the passenger’s seat, climbs in and then places the bomb next to his bag. It only takes him a moment to pull the wires loose beneath the dash and find the red and green wires. Within moments the jeep roars to life and he’s off. After a few dead ends, wrong turns and illegal u-turns, a very frustrated Clayton finally finds the house he’s looking for, practically out in the suburbs. He parks the car in the driveway and observes the house for a moment, thinking himself awfully clever for bumping things up as he planned to. Smiling to himself he begins to dig into his bag for the things he’d need right off the bat and stuffs them into his jacket. He leaves the bomb and his bag in the jeep for now, but pulls out a pad of paper and a pen. He also grabs a baseball cap and pulls it low over his face. With a quick glance in the rear view mirror of his car he gives himself a satisfied nod. Clayton gets out of the jeep and walks toward the front door a little slowly looking, looking around as if he were curious but had done this before. He approaches the door and rings the glowing bell. He taps his fingers on the pad of paper impatiently while he hears footsteps coming from inside the house. When the door opens he gives the middle-aged man a bright smile.
“Hello, Mr. Stykes.” Clayton says and extends his hand for a handshake which Mark (a bit reluctantly) returns. “My name is Robert Stall; I live a few blocks down from here. I’m conducting a survey on the surrounding neighborhoods opinions on the new mini mall being built to cater to the Goth community.”
Mark gives Clayton a confused look. “A Goth mini mall?” He asks. “I…didn’t know such a place was in the works.”
“All the more reason to get your opinion!” Clayton replies emphatically. “Do we really want our neighborhood to become overrun with…those people?” He searches Mark’s face for signs of what he was thinking. His watcher file said that although he’d been an exemplary watcher for many years, his colleagues had noticed over the years his racist tendencies. He’d participated in segregation rallies in the South growing up, and had once almost blown his cover when he’d been assigned to an African American immortal whose morals he hadn’t agreed with. “Well, do you?” Clayton asks after a pause, smiling internally as he saw the flash of hate cross Mark’s face.
“Where do I sign?” Mark asks, glancing down at the pad of paper Clayton was holding.
Clayton shakes his head. “It’s more of a survey, not a petition. I want your opinions and suggestions. Perhaps we could sit down and discuss the problem?”
Mark barely hesitates before he swings up his door wider and motions for Clayton to come inside. He leads the way forward toward the kitchen talking about how the neighborhood was being overrun.
Clayton quietly closes the door behind him, stuffing the pad of paper into an internal pocket and reaching into his outer pockets he pulls out a bottle and a rag. He puts his hands behind his back in case Mark turns around too soon. Without even having to see what he’s doing he pops the top off the bottle and splashes the liquid on the rag. He smiles evilly to himself as Mark seems to walk in slow motion away from him. As quiet as a cat Clayton sneaks up behind Mark and covers his mouth and nose with the rag, dropping the bottle vaguely aware that it’s chugging the rest of the liquid onto the carpet. He holds his own as Mark struggles against the drugging effects of the Chloroform. Clayton has to give Mark credit, he was a fighter. Mark was strong, but Clayton was stronger. He holds the rag tight to the man’s mouth, using his other arm to apply pressure.
Mark struggled for a few more seconds before the chloroform finally took full effect. He slumps against Clayton, who drops him unceremoniously onto the floor.
Clayton glances quickly around, spies a kitchen chair and brings it out and sets it in the living room. He doesn’t spare a glance down at Mark as he pulls his hat lower and the lapels of his coat higher and exits to the jeep. He gets into the jeep and drives it around back, parks it, grabs the rest of his things and enters into the back door of Mark’s house. After placing his bag and the bomb carefully inside the living room in a nice little row, he throws off his hat and jacket and rolls up his sleeves. He grabs Mark under his armpits and hefts him into the kitchen chair. Once the Watcher was more or less seated on the chair with his head lolling back and his torso about to slip off, Clayton grabs a length of rope. He quickly scoots Mark back onto the chair and tightly ties his hands together behind the chair back, cutting off the extra length with the dagger he’d brought along. Once Mark’s hands were tied securely, Clayton went to work on his ankles and ties them tightly to the legs of the chair. When he finishes, he dusts his hands off and takes a step back to admire his handy work. Satisfied, Clayton grabs a magazine from a nearby end table to read the latest celebrity trash…and wait. It takes going through the magazine twice, and then ripping out half the pages and tearing them to shreds to pass the time before Mark slowly, groggily awakens. Clayton smiles at him and drops the magazine to his feet. “Ah finally! For a few minutes there I’d wondered if I’d mixed the ingredients wrong and killed you outright.” He shrugs dramatically. “It would have taken all the fun right out of it!”
“Wha—what do you want?” Mark asks, his tongue thick finding it difficult to form words.
“You.” Clayton replies simply, and then adds with a slight shrug, “Dead.” He stands up and slowly stretches; relishing the power he has over the mortal in front of him. Clayton reaches down to his feet and brought up the dagger, aware that Mark’s gaze follows his every move.
“What…have I done…to…you?” Mark slurs his eyes fearful.
Clayton raises an eyebrow at Mark in an ‘isn’t it obvious?’ type way. “Well one…you’re a mortal, that enough should be enough of a reason to put you down.” He sighs deeply and smiles at Mark in a cocky manner. “But you know…the fact that you’re a Watcher just adds a little more icing to the whole ordeal.” He watches the surprise flicker across Mark’s features before he schools his face and tries to look impassive.
“A—A what?” Mark asks, trying to look curious. The fear of what was to come got the best of him and began to look more afraid. They’d warned him of this back in the Academy. If a Watcher’s identity was ever discovered he was to deny everything and get the hell out of Dodge ASAP. He wiggles his hands and feet experimentally finding the ropes binding and practically cutting through his skin through his clothes.
Clayton rolls his eyes over dramatically toward Mark. “Oh come on, like its some big secret.” He turns his wrist towards Mark so his own Watcher tattoo shows. “They’re practically giving out the rights these days.”
Mark blinks blearily up at Clayton. This was a confusing situation that they’d never covered at the Academy. Should he continue to deny…or ask questions? If he asked questions it would confirm what Clayton obviously already knew. Mentally shrugging, he looks toward Clayton with questioning eyes. Hoping to avoid future pain he makes a choice. “If…you’re a…watcher…” Mark starts. “Why—why are you doing this?”
“The Watchers are a joke!” Clayton growls down at Mark, running his dagger lightly over the palm of his hand. He watches Mark’s eyes follow the path of the knife.
“You said…I was mortal.” Mark says, his head is beginning to become less fuzzy, and he was trying to fight off panic as the hopelessness of his situation was beginning to become clear. “Are you an immortal?”
“Ding, ding, ding!” Clayton shouts manically. “Let’s give this man a prize!” He steps forward and punches Mark with a right hook. He waits for Mark to experimentally move his jaw back and forth before slowly looking up to meet Clayton’s eyes. “Now…I’m going to kill you, you have no choice about that. But you do have a choice of how much pain you can endure before we get to that part.” He watches the man’s eyes grow larger in fear as his panic begins to clearly show on his face. Clayton slowly runs the dagger lightly across Mark’s right cheek, yet not hard enough to draw blood. “So…what’s it going to be? Do you want to die right away…or would you like to have some fun with me first?”
Continued on Page 2
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Post by cj on Mar 7, 2008 15:43:24 GMT -5
“Please!” Mark tries to reason. “You don’t have to do this! Do you want money?! I have money! Ten thousand dollars in the bank! Its all yours if you’ll just let me go!” Mark shrinks back away from the blade that was coming dangerously close to his left eye. “Please! I promise I won’t say a word to the cops or the Watchers…just let me go!”
“That was not one of the options!” Clayton says as he lightly swipes the dagger across Mark’s left cheek leaving a thin trail of blood in its wake. “There will be no reasoning, and no letting go of any kind. I’m in charge, I call the shots. Now, would you like a slow agonizingly painful death or a short quick and to the point death?”
“Fuck you!” Mark screams up at Clayton, which earns him another hard right hook to his face. His nose begins to bleed and spits out blood.
Clayton watches Mark’s useless struggles for a moment before he leaves the room for a glass of water. When he returns, casually sipping his water, he finds Mark slumping in his chair, exhausted from his struggles and still weak from the chloroform. Clayton swallows a drink of water, watching the Watcher with dull passionless eyes. He cocks his head to the side. “Have you heard of a watcher named Horton?” Clayton asks, conversationally.
“Does my answer even matter?” Mark asks. “You’re going to kill me anyway, why should I play along?!”
“Horton was a racist.” Clayton continues as if Mark hadn’t spoken. “Not a racist in the typical way…he was racist against immortals.” He squats down and sets his glass of water on the floor and reaches next to his bag. Clayton picks up the bomb and stands up, fiddling with the wires and dials. “As I recall you’re racist as well.” Clayton continues conversationally, still clicking wires together as he speaks. “Are you racist against immortals?”
“No!” Mark yells at Clayton. “I’m not. If anything I’ve always wanted to be an immortal! I’d like to be like you.”
Clayton looks up from his task with a look of pure evil in his eyes. “Then it’s too bad you’re mortal.” He clicks a button on the bomb and a beeping sound is heard. Clayton steps forward to place it between Mark’s bound feet.
“What is that…is that a bomb?!” Mark shrieks trying to hop his chair back in fear to distance himself from the bomb. He looks up at Clayton who was now back by the door, grabbing his shoulder bag as if he doesn’t have a care in the world. “What kind of sick freak are you?!”
Clayton turns back to look at Mark over his shoulder. “I’m an immortal.” With that he turns and walks out the door. He takes his time, knowing that the bomb was set for two full minutes. That was enough time for Mark to fully panic before he died a painful death.
After throwing his shoulder bag into the passenger side of his jeep, Clayton pulls out into the alley and drives away as if he didn’t have a care in the world. He was three full blocks away when he heard the explosion. He smiles an evil smile and turns in the direction of his hotel.
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Post by cj on Mar 17, 2008 22:25:42 GMT -5
CARA comes into the bedroom carrying a tray with fresh fruit and English muffins and jam and a carafe of coffee.
Duncan moves around on the bed, his hand searches on Cara's side of the bed. He opens his eyes slowly and looks around. He smiles when he seer's her, then smells the coffee.[Duncan] That coffee smells great. CARA walks over to his side of the bed and waits for Duncan to sit up.[CARA] Good morning, my love. CARA says with a smile.
Duncan puts a pillow against the head board of the bed, and sits up.[Duncan] So what is the occasion for breakfast in bed? CARA sets the tray on the bed over Duncan's lap.[CARA] What? I can't be a good wife on occasion and serve my wonderful husband breakfast in bed? CARA grins mischievously.
Duncan laughs as he pours a cup of coffee[Duncan] Yes, but there is usually a favor included.... CARA sits down on the edge of the bed and quirks an eyebrow.[CARA] What? I never.....I think I'm insulted. CARA says and pretends to pout.
Duncan puts a piece of fruit on a fork and puts it near her mouth.[Duncan] Here take a bite and I love breakfast in bed.... CARA leans forward and takes the bite off of the fork seductively while maintaining eye contact with Duncan.
Duncan smiles at her and sips some coffee[Duncan] okay I'm ready for the request.... CARA swallows the bite of fruit and reaches for the carafe to pour herself a cup of coffee.[CARA] What are your plans for today? CARA asks as she stirs sugar into her cup.[Duncan] Well breakfast in bed, shower, shave...go somewhere with my wife? CARA chuckles.[CARA] I think it is time you meet....as you put it last night....your competition. CARA winks at him.[Duncan] Sounds like a plan to me. I'm looking forward to meeting my competition. CARA grins excitedly.[CARA] You want the shower first? CARA asks standing up.[Duncan] Let me finish this coffee, and I'll be ready in fifteen minutes. CARA moves away from the bed.
Duncan takes another sip of the coffee.[CARA] Just leave me some hot water. CARA teases.
Duncan laughs ***30 minutes later*** CARA gets into the drivers seat of her truck and waits for Duncan to get in.
Duncan gets into the truck putting his Katana behind the seat.[Duncan] Okay James, off we go. CARA giggles as she starts the engine. She pulls out of the garage and hits the garage door remote, closing it behind them, and heads for the north side of town.
Duncan watches her drive the truck, noticing how easy she handles it.[Duncan] So how far do we go? [CARA] The ranch is about 5 miles out of the city limits. I found it by accident one day when I was cruising around trying to clear my mind after Peggy's funeral. CARA explains.
Duncan moves his hand to her leg and touches her.[Duncan] I want you to know how sorry I am about her death, and I know how you must have felt. CARA smiles and places her hand over his.[CARA] Like you have told me so many times.....it's something that we have to deal with. Everyone dies. Even us. CARA says softly.***20 minutes later*** CARA drives around a curve in the narrow two lane (more like 1 1/2 lane) road and slows her truck. Directly ahead of them is the white archway with the sign reading "Nua Tosu`".[Duncan] New Beginnings..great name CARA smiles proudly.[CARA] Thanks. CARA says as she drives under the archway. She follows the road which is lined with new white fencing around green pastures on both sides and comes to a stop in a parking area in front of what would have been the main ranch house.[Duncan] It's beautiful here. How many boarders are there? CARA takes off her seat belt and opens the drivers door.[CARA] None yet. But the main house has been renovated to accommodate 16 and what was the staff bunk house can house 8 more. There will be one full time nurse and a counselor living in the main house and my foreman lives on the property full time as well. CARA explains as she gets out of the truck and closes the door.
Duncan gets out of the car and goes to her side.[Duncan] Sounds like you have been working hard on this. I'm proud of you Cara. CARA slips her arm through his and gives his a squeeze.[CARA] Thank you, my love. CARA says proudly.[CARA] Come on. I'll show you around. CARA says and starts leading him towards the main house.[CARA] And off. CARA adds with a light hearted tone in her voice. She takes him inside and gives him the grand tour and introduces him to the staff then leads him out of the house and heads for the huge white barn.[Duncan] I like the staff, they seem to know what they are doing. It shows in all the work that has been done. [CARA] They are a great bunch. I got really lucky. CARA says with pride.[CARA] Now.....are you ready to meet him? CARA asks as she waves to her foreman who is walking out of the barn.[Duncan] I am looking forward to it...seeing you this happy is a happy plus. CARA giggles almost shyly and leads him into the barn after quickly introducing him to her foreman who informs her that Blaze is in the paddock behind the barn. She takes Duncan's hand and leads him through the barn and out the back door. She walks up to the fence and places her foot on the bottom railing and whistles. The black stallion trots over to the fence and she reaches out and rubs his soft muzzle.[CARA] Duncan MacLeod I would like you to meet Blaze. Blaze....this is my husband....the one I have been telling you about? CARA says while rubbing the horse's forehead.
Duncan goes by the railing and looks at the horse. He takes in a deep breath.[Duncan] What a beautiful horse. How many hands is he? [CARA] 16. CARA answers.[CARA] Which to me means he is like the Empire State Building. CARA giggles.[Duncan] He is large....I can see why he could be my competition. CARA slips her arm around Duncan's waist.[CARA] Believe me.....you have nothing to worry about. No one can ever compete with you. CARA says with a mischievous wink.
Duncan gives her a kiss.[Duncan] So what are your plans now.? [CARA] Well....we can't bring in anyone until we get the certifications back from the state but they should be coming in in a few weeks. Unfortunately our funds are too low to do that right now. And if I use any of my money in the operation of the place we will lose our chance at getting Federal grants because then it becomes a private business. And the Federal people are so swamped with applications that it may take a year to get anything from them. CARA explains leaning her back against the fence.[Duncan] How much are you looking at to keep it running? Duncan as he looks around the place.[Duncan] What you need is outside help....one that doesn't stop you from getting the grant. You know like how Father Bret got the money he needed for the new church? I'm talking about weekly bingo games..but something that can be done in one event. CARA makes a huffing sound.[CARA] Yeah. But i don't think a bake sale or carnival will cut it....if you know what I mean. Duncan nods in agreement, then suddenly he lifts her by the waist and spins her around.[Duncan] Perfect...you came up with a plan. CARA squeals as she is spun around.[CARA] What plan? What did I say? CARA asks giggling.
Duncan sits her on the top railing. He kisses her on the nose.[Duncan] Okay, we both know a lot of people who could afford a special night out right? Also those people know other people who can be invited....We are going to put on a Vegas Casino Night. We can have it at a nice hotel, dress up affair...people could play casino games, I went to one a few years ago for Samual Jines charity for Cancer research. I can talk to him about who he used. He drew in a lot of money....a lot. CARA listens intently to Duncan's idea and the wheels in her brain start turning at the speed of light. She comes up with an extension of his idea and slaps her thigh.[CARA] I've got it! CARA exclaims.[CARA] Instead of a fancy hotel....we could have it on the Mary Belle casino. Maybe we can rent it out for a night. Since it is already set up with all the gambling games.....and we could invite some of the more affluent members of the Arts Council and that snooty bunch in that museum group you are a member of. [Duncan] Snooty? Well maybe some of them. The river boat is a great suggestion, we can design the invitations using Blaze on the cover. We have a lot of work to do...feel up to it?. CARA wraps her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist and pulls herself off of the top rung of the fence. She kisses his cheek.[CARA] I like how this has become we instead of me. Thank you. CARA kisses him again.[CARA] Have I told you recently that I love you? [Duncan] Not since this morning.....and I'm pretty fond of you..... Duncan kisses her.
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Post by cj on Mar 17, 2008 23:16:12 GMT -5
CARA is parked across from the motel the mysterious Watcher has been staying in. She waits until she sees him leave and then gets out of her truck and hurries to his room. Using her lock pick tool she lets herself into his room and closes the door behind her. She begins methodically searching through his belongings and paperwork hoping to find out more about the guy.
Matthew drives into the parking lot of the motel. As he gets out of his car, he senses the presence of another immortal. He grabs his sword and slips into into his coat next to his gun.
CARA feels an Immortal buzz and looks nervously at the door. Thinking it is the resident of the room she closes the dresser drawer she has been searching through and moves silently over to the door. She reaches behind her back and withdraws her 357 she has had tucked into the waistband of her jeans and backs up against the wall next to the door so that when it is opened she will be behind it. She holds the gun in both hands which she holds against her chest. She takes in a deep breath and holds it and waits.
Matthew slowly approaches the room number listed in his file with his gun drawn. Normally, he would have told the occupant that he was FBI but this time, he thought it best to just use the direct approach. so he kicks in the door and is shocked by who he sees, "Car!"
CARA is surprised by the sound of wood cracking and the door flying open but she steps out from behind it and levels her piece at the person entering. She is only seconds away from squeezing the trigger when she recognizes the Immortal in front of her.
[CARA] Matthew! Oh my God!
CARA exclaims as she starts to lower her gun.
[Matthew] What the hell are you doing here?
CARA steps aside and looks past him to the motel parking lot hoping that his noisy entrance hasn't been noticed by anyone out there. Then she quickly closes the door and turns around to face Matthew, leaning her back against the closed door.
[CARA] What do you think?
CARA says knowing that she has basically been caught doing something that she has been told specifically not to do.
[Matthew] I think your doing exactly what I told you not to do, getting involved in something you shouldn't be.
CARA puts her gun back in the waistband of her jeans.
Matthew also puts his gun away.
CARA sighs and shrugs.
[CARA] Then I guess you would win the cupie doll.
[Matthew] So, did you find anything?
[CARA] Not yet. I just got here.
[Matthew] cute.
CARA answers and moves away from the door and walks back to the dresser opening the drawer she had been searching and goes back to it.
[Matthew] Good, then you can leave and I can do my job.
[CARA] Yeah.
CARA chuckles without looking at him.
[CARA] Like that's going to happen.
CARA closes the drawer and opens the next one and begins going through the shirts in it.
[Matthew] You do know I could arrest you for this?
[CARA] So arrest me.
CARA says, again without looking at him.
[Matthew] What good would that do.
[CARA] Exactly.
CARA says lifting her head and looking at Matthew in the mirror over the dresser.
[CARA] Besides....you need somebody's help.
[Matthew] Fine, if you are going to stay, just be careful, you never know what this nut has left behind. You heard about Homeland Security?
CARA gives him a smirk.
[CARA] Did you think I wouldn't?
CARA shakes her head and goes back to her work.
[Matthew] They don't know what they really are dealing with, I do.
[CARA] You forget....I have friends in the security business who have friends who have friends. Besides.....admit it....
CARA says looking over her shoulder at him.
[CARA] You wouldn't be in this room if not for me telling you who lived in it. You sort of owe me.
[Matthew] Not to mention MacLeod. does he know your here?
CARA winces and goes back to searching through another drawer not wanting to answer him.
[Matthew] I see.
[CARA] Instead of interrogating me why don't you get busy looking for some clue as to who this ass hole is?
CARA says with a hint of sarcasm in her voice.
[CARA] Feds.
CARA grumbles under her breath and opens another drawer.
[Matthew] Civilians, you are at least wearing gloves.
Matthew says as he takes out his finger print kit.
[CARA] This isn't my first party.
CARA grumbles as she rifles through the drawer.
Matthew begins to dust for prints was was coming up empty. "This guy is good."
CARA closes the last drawer of the dresser and moves over to the table which still has the laptop on it only this time it is closed. She carefully goes through the stacks of papers and file folders that cover the table top.
[CARA] He must be since he has managed to kill so many and you haven't caught him yet.
CARA says without looking at Matthew but hoping the off handed compliment will regain whatever points she has lost with the guy.
[Matthew] but he leaves his laptop behind, I don't buy it. I don't think you should touch that thing.
[CARA] Do you see me touching it?
CARA says and rolls her eyes. She stops rifling through papers and picks up a file folder and opens it.
[Matthew] just giving you a heads up.
[CARA] Are you always an arrogant bastard? Or do I just bring that out in you?
Matthew moves towards the laptop and starts to examine it without touching it.
CARA says sarcastically without looking up from the file folder.
[Matthew] A little of both I would imagine.
CARA gives him a sidelong glance over the file folder and shakes her head.
[CARA] Must be a male immortal thing.
CARA mumbles and goes back to reading through the file.
[Matthew] To bad we don't have a bomb sniffing dog handy.
CARA sets the file back on the table exactly the way it had been and looks up at Matthew.
[CARA] What are you going to do if he comes back? Can you arrest him on what you have?
CARA asks thinking about the fact that the dude's door has been kicked in and it will be obvious that somebody had been there.
[Matthew] I don't think so but I can try to take his head.
[CARA] Try?
CARA quirks an eyebrow.
[Matthew] What do you want me to say?
Matthew says as as he takes out his bomb detector out of case.
[Matthew] I hate these things, give me a good old dog any day
[CARA] Not really into joining the 21st century?
CARA snickers. She notices a small flash drive on the table and picks it up and looks at it.
[Matthew] Not really now did you find out anything.
CARA holds up the flash drive to show Matthew without answering him.
[Matthew] I have my laptop in my car, I'll look at that later, bag it.
Matthew says handing her a paper bag.
[Matthew] So far so good, this thing isn't detecting any explosives from the laptop.
[CARA] Then why wait?
[Matthew] Give it a shot then.
CARA says and reaches over lifting the lid of the laptop and sticking the flash drive into the slot on the side of the laptop. She waits for the computer to boot up and read the contents of the flash drive. When the screen displays the list of files, she sits down in the chair and opens the first file.
[Matthew] What does it say?
[CARA] It looks like it is some sort of journal or diary. The Watchers keep them on their assignments but this looks like it is of more a personal nature.
CARA says as she reads through the pages of the first file.
[Matthew] do you recognize any names.
[CARA] This entry is from when he was in the academy Just stuff about how strict they were and what he has to study. Oh...here's something about being smitten with some girl in his class who didn't know he existed.
CARA chuckles softly. She closes out that file and opens the next one.
[CARA] He must have been one of those bookworm nerds.
CARA closes out that file and opens another one. She scrolls through it and closes it, opening the next one. She stops scrolling and places her fingertip on the monitor screen as she reads an entry more carefully
[Matthew] How interesting but it's not telling me anything like who the hell he is.
[CARA] Then why don't you make yourself useful and go through the duffel bag in the closet?
CARA grumbles as she reads the rest of the entry and closes the file and opens another one.
[CARA] men!
CARA mumbles under her breath.
[Matthew] I didn't realize you are now my superior. Do you boss MacLeod around like this or am I special?
Matthew says as he opens the duffel bag.
CARA simply rolls her eyes and shakes her head without answering him. She snickers softly more to herself than anything else. Matthew's arrogance cracks her up.
[Matthew] Looks like we have some goodies in this bag. Have you found anything yet?
[CARA] Goodies? What kind of goodies?
CARA asks looking over her shoulder at Matthew. She closes out the file and opens the next one. She slows her scrolling as she begins to read the entry more closely.
[Matthew] The kind of goodies a sicko would make a bomb with. Cara, I think it might be time to go. We should take the laptop and bag and stake out the place.
[CARA] Hang on.
CARA says as she re-reads the entry on the monitor.
[CARA] Whoever this guy is....
CARA says as she opens another file and quickly reads trough it.
[CARA] He's not just a Watcher slash Immortal. He's stark raving mad, too.
CARA says closing out the file and opening another one.
[Matthew] Well, he blows people up so that's pretty much a given.
[CARA] These entries take place 3 years ago when he became Immortal. He had no idea what had happened to him and it seems that it caused him to lose his mind. Each entry seems loonier than the one before it.
CARA pulls out the flash drive and puts it in the baggie Matthew had handed her. She stands up and closes the laptop and then quickly glances around the top of the table.
[Matthew] That doesn't surprise me.
[CARA] He's got to have another flash drive around here somewhere with more current journal entries.
CARA says and lifts a few papers to see if it might be underneath them. [Matthew] We really shouldn't stay here to long so hurry up.
[CARA] Are you sure you want to take stuff out of here? Don't you think that might scare him off and he might run? That would mean we would lose him.
CARA asks looking up at Matthew.
[Matthew] are you saying you want me to leave explosives behind for this nut?
[CARA] I'm not saying anything. As you have repeatedly pointed out....you are the professional here....not me. I was just trying to follow your thinking.
CARA hands him the baggie with the flash drive in it.
[Matthew] Can you copy his hard drive?
[CARA] Here? Now?
CARA shakes her head. I'd need an external hard drive to do that and I didn't bring one with me.
[Matthew] I have an external drive in the car and we need that information.
CARA says a bit sarcastically.
[CARA] You actually carry one around with you?
CARA asks in surprise.
[Matthew] doesn't everyone?
CARA chuckles.
[CARA] Not anyone I know.
Matthew goes to the car and get the drive and hands it to her.
CARA sits back down in front of the computer and opens the lid, rebooting it. She picks up a pencil from the table and taps the eraser against her front teeth as she waits for Matthew to return with the external hard drive.
[Matthew] Are you ready to copy the files.
CARA plugs the external hard drive into the laptop and types in a command then sits back and watches as the files are copied
[CARA] So why does someone who hates modern technology carry an external hard drive around in the trunk of their car?
CARA asks teasingly.
[Matthew] That's part of the mystery that is me.
[CARA] Right. Like you're so mysterious.
CARA rolls her eyes.
[Matthew] Actually, it's become standard equipment for FBI Agents, I still don't like it though.
CARA shakes her head and chuckles.
[CARA] Matthew McCormick....you are as transparent as the glass in that window.
CARA says nodding towards the window.
[Matthew] Am I now? I don't think I like that.
CARA shrugs.
[CARA] Sorry. I just calls 'em like I sees 'em.
CARA quips.
[Matthew] I'll let you in on a secret though, when this case is over, I am leaving the FBI
CARA turns in the chair and looks at him seriously.
[CARA] What? Why?
[Matthew] It's gotten to political, Homeland Security seems to control everything now.
[CARA] But.....haven't you been fed since they started the FBI?
[Matthew] Yes, and it was never this bad, not even seeing Hoover in a dress was it this bad.
[CARA] Well....then what would you do? I mean....I haven't known anyone who has been a cop for that long and been able to just give it up.
[Matthew] I'll go back to being a PI.
CARA shakes her head and turns back to the computer.
[CARA] What a shame.
CARA says sincerely.
[CARA] You may be an arrogant SOB but you're a good cop. And there aren't that many good ones anymore. I know i feel a bit safer knowing men like you are working to keep me and those I love safe.
[Matthew] What's a shame is the way the Bureau is now. Following DHS around like sheep.
CARA notices that the last file is being copied and lays her hand on the plug of the external hard drive readying to unplug it when it is finished.
[Matthew] Thanks but my mind is made up. but this way I can do the job I love without interference
[CARA] I definitely can't picture you wearing regular clothes and mingling with regular people.
CARA teases.
[Matthew] Are you finished with that thing?
CARA disconnects the external hard drive from the laptop and shuts the laptop down and closes it.
[CARA] Here you go.
CARA says and hands him the external hard drive.
[CARA] But....
CARA says not letting go of the component
[CARA] You have to make me a deal.
CARA says locking her gaze with his.
[Matthew] and that is?
[CARA] I want to know what the contents show. And I want to be there when you take him down. Peggy Oaks wasn't just my Watcher. She was like a sister. I owe her my life. Several times over.
CARA looks directly into his eyes.
[CARA] Deal?
[Matthew] As long as you promise not to interfere then you have a deal. MacLeod isn't going to like this.
[CARA] MacLeod doesn't like brussel sprouts but I make him eat them.
CARA says evenly, still not letting go of the hard drive.
[Matthew] I don't blame him, nasty things plus they make you fart.
CARA lets go of the hard drive and steps back.
[Matthew] now I think it's time we get the hell out of here.
CARA nods and glances around the room one last time.
[CARA] Yeah. I agree.
CARA says and heads for the door.
[CARA] Oh.....Matthew?
CARA says stopping in the open doorway.
[Matthew] Yes?
[CARA] If you need a job.....I know a top notch PI slash security firm who might hire an ex arrogant FBI agent.
CARA smiles teasingly at him.
[Matthew] I might take you up on that, now let's go.
CARA gestures toward the parking lot and bows gallantly.
[CARA] After you oh wise one.
CARA says teasingly.
[Matthew] Thank you now, you promise me that you won't do anything with checking with me first.
[CARA] Ummm.
[Matthew] CJ?
CARA says without making eye contact.
[CARA] Sure.
CARA says noncommittally
[Matthew] Sometimes, I think MacLeod needs to give you a spanking.
[CARA] What makes you think he doesn't?
CARA looks at him and winks mischievously as she closes the door to the motel room behind them.
[Matthew] OK, that's to much information for me. I'll give you a call when I find out something.
Matthew gets in his car and starts the engine.
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