Highlander Universe

[scikaiju]

Owen didn’t agree with Finlay on a lot of things. In fact in the later years he wondered what he ever saw in the man that made him respect him in the past. But there was one philosophy of his that Owen did agree with: the more well rounded an Immortal was the better the chance he had in surviving and winning the Game. It was something he tried to pass on to every student he ever had. So Owen, especially in his younger days after Finlay made him leave Ireland, traveled the world trying to find anybody who would train him, mortal and immortal alike. To date he knew several ways to fight with a sword, incorporating what he could into his own personal style. Learning how to switch sword styles on the fly without getting himself killed. And he didn’t stop there as he picked up whatever else he could. Somewhere along the line he discovered he had an almost natural aptitude toward tracking and tried learning from whoever had the time and patience.

Not to say he was good at everything he had learned. There were swords techniques he had a hard time mastering, if not picking up at all. And he admittedly was the last person to go to if you needed something particular done, like shoot something with a bow and arrow. A fact his old friend Susan seemed to be enjoying proving this particular day. She watched with an amused grin as his arrow just skimmed the bottom of the target. “Why did I let you talk me into this again?â€, he complained.

“Because I had Natalya with me to wear you down,†Susan joked. She looked back to see her as well as Serenity and Keith trying not to laugh. “Besides I thought it would be a good way to show them show them how not to do it.â€

“Cute,†he said as he took the guard off his arm. Susan said nothing as she took aim and nailed another one near the bull’s-eye. Their audience clapped. “If you’re done humiliating me can we go now?â€

“Just making sure your head doesn’t get too big,†she told him. She glanced over to Natalya who shook her head slightly before returning her attention to the conversation she was having with the others. “So I hear Natalya found out about a particular bit of our history.â€

“Talk to your student,†Owen told her.

“We’re lucky she’s seemed to have blown it off. You don’t want an upset Natalya hounding you. I’ve seen it happen to a couple poor bastards.†She looked thoughtful before smiling to herself, “Although I seem to recall that ‘cold night’ lasting a week.â€

“Just making her image of you doesn’t get too tarnished,†Owen said. “She thinks pretty highly of you, even after that came out.†Looking at her he added, “If I never said it before I think pretty highly of you too.â€

“You’re going to make this old woman blush,†Susan said taking her arm guard off. “You two are like the younger siblings I never had. A complete and total pain in my neck.†They both shared a laugh. When they got to the others Natalya led in the ribbing Owen was currently taking. The moment stopped briefly as the buzz hit them.

Finally they located the source, a Japanese man in his forties carrying a walking stick that was larger around than usual. “I didn’t think it was possible that your archery skill could deteriorate even more,†was all he said.

Owen started grinning immediately, “Naoto.†He greeted his friend with a handshake that the other man quickly turned into a hug. “It’s great to see you. What are you doing out here? You haven’t left that temple in sixty years.â€

“All in good time Little Immortal.†The others looked at Susan as Natalya mouthed those words. She held up a hand to stop it from going any further. “Are you going to introduce me to your companions? Or have your manners gone the way of your archery?â€

“Of course,†Owen said as he gestured toward them, “You remember Susan.â€

“It would be hard to forget that encounter,†Susan said. “It is good to see you again.â€

“Likewise,†Naoto said as he took her hand.

“That’s her student Serenity and my student Keith.†They exchanged pleasantries. “And this is Natalya.â€

“You better be saving the best for last,†Natalya told him. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you Naoto. There are times Owen can’t shut up about the time he spent with you.â€

“And it’s pleasure to finally meet the rather infamous Natalya. I often wondered what sort of beauty could capture his heart in such a way,†He took her hand and kissed it.

“Oh I like him,†she grinned.

“Down girl,†Owen told her. “So what are you doing this way? How long are you planning on staying? I’ve been meaning to come back.†He trailed off, how could he have not come back once since that last time in the fifties?

“Don’t fret Little Immortal,†Naoto told him. “I’ve have been alive long enough to know that sometimes life has a way of making us stall our promises, even if it’s not intentional. Ironically enough being alive for so long is why I’ve sought you out. I have a request of you although I am afraid to ask.â€

“You know you can ask me for anything,†Owen assured him. Naoto looked unsure as he looked at the others. Picking up on his discomfort Owen said, “Maybe we can talk somewhere a little more secluded.â€

“No,†he said after thinking it over, “I can talk to you in front of the others. It’s better they know now than later after you start acting differently.†Owen looked on with some concern, was somebody after him? Taking a deep breath Naoto looked him in the eyes and said, “I want you to kill me.â€

“Something really loud must have just passed by,†Owen said after a moment, “because I don’t think I heard you right.†Naoto said it again. Owen walked away not wanting to hear this.

Natalya on the other hand, “If this is your idea of a joke it’s not fucking funny.â€

“It is no joke,†Naoto said.

Owen turned back around with anger in his eyes. “I wanted you to take my head once, you never took it.†They looked at Owen stunned, Natalya and Susan even more so. Neither of them expected that out of him. “Why should I take yours?â€

“Like I told you back then I failed Himiko too,†Naoto explained calmly placing a hand on his shoulder. “As for now, Owen I am over eight hundred years old and I am tired of living. I am tired of the Game. I spent the last six decades staying out of the Game trying to find that spark of life I lost along the way. I haven’t found it yet, if I haven’t by now I never will.â€

Owen opened his mouth to say something but stopped. He walked away leaving them there. “Calm him down before he does something stupid,†Susan told Natalya. Susan could tell she was about to go off on Naoto. Keith and Ser still had to drag her after Owen. Alone with him she tried to keep calm herself, “Why are you asking this of him?â€

“Because Owen is the only person I would ask to do this.†Reaching into his coat he pulled out a piece of paper. “I am staying near this temple. Have him meet me here, no matter what decision he makes.†Despite her better judgment she took the paper. “I do wish we met again under better circumstances.†There was a soft clack as the end of his stick hit the ground as he walked away.

When she caught up with the others Owen’s motorcycle was already gone and Natalya raised her arms in frustration. “I don’t get it,†Keith started to say. “So do you reach a certain age and just want to die? What’s the point of staying alive and trying to win the Game if that’s what going to happen?â€

“That’s not what happens,†Natalya snapped. “This is just stupid. Susan’s over twelve hundred years old and she never wanted to die.â€

“It happens I’m afraid,†she said, feeling all of her years at the moment. “It doesn’t happen often fortunately but you’ll occasionally run across an Immortal who’s just tired and wants it to end. I’ve even seen newborns who tried to take their own heads after they awaken because they can’t handle what they’ve become.â€

“I guess you can’t direct him to a suicide hotline or something,†Serenity said.

“He’s from a different time Ser,†Susan explained. “Me and him both are. Sometimes it hard for us to remember that times have changed as much as they have.†She looked at the paper in her hand, “I think I know where Owen went. I have a promise to keep.†Natalya went with her, both of them wanted to be there for him.

Owen didn’t talk to either of them, he barely listened. He did realize Natalya and Susan got into a loud discussion about what to do about this. But his mind was elsewhere. He was back there on that little island off the coast of main island of Japan trying to pick up this special strike Naoto developed.

~1764~

The sun beat down on Owen and Naoto as they spared outside of his humble house. To the side a young girl of eighteen with a scar that ran down the right side of her face and just under her chin watched them. Owen tried to readjust his grip on the wooden “sword†in his hand. He’d been here about seven months now and he still couldn’t find a decent grip on this damn thing. A series of strikes knocked Owen back a bit and he quickly retaliated pushing Naoto back in time. He tried to surprise him by switching to a fencing style he picked up in France. But he quickly tripped over his own feet and fell on his face. Naoto placed the wooden sword by his neck, he lost this one. Himiko was trying to hide that she was laughing at him and failing, “Owen apparently doesn’t know his right foot from his left.â€

“Now now Himiko, let’s not make fun of our guest,†Naoto told her, but he looked amused as well. “You must admit Little Immortal has improved in the time he has been here.â€

“I’d be improving faster if we weren’t using these glorified sticks,†Owen grunted as he got back to his feet.

“Perhaps,†Naoto said. They took their position again. Owen struck first but Naoto was standing his ground. Then in a move too fast for him to react to the older immortal knocked his sword away and a split second later cracked him on top of the head. Owen stumbled back a couple of steps dazed before falling on his ass. “And perhaps Little Immortal if we were using the real thing I’d be absorbing your Quickening right about now.†Owen said nothing as the stars slowly faded from his vision. But he did feel something wet as a trickle of blood ran down his forehead.

This time Himiko wasn’t laughing, “Brother you hurt him.†She quickly went to him and knelt beside him as she began wiping away the blood. Owen looked at her, she blushed a bit before smiling at him. Then he saw behind her to see Naoto looking confused but still amused.

“I’m alright Himiko,†he told her as he lightly pushed her away. She glanced at Naoto understanding why he was doing so. “It’s going to take a lot more than this to kill me.â€

“Himiko,†Naoto said placing his sword on a stump, “I think our guest might be a little tired. Why don’t you fix us some tea while he rests up a bit.â€

“Of course brother,†she said and went into the house.

“Owen I want to talk to you about something while we are alone.†Owen figured this was coming, they couldn’t hide it forever. “I notice how you two are around each other, especially lately.â€

“I know it’s inappropriate,†Owen started to say, “with you raising her like a sister and all.â€

“I give you my blessing,†he said with a small smile. Owen nearly fell again. “I remember seeing much sadness in you when you first arrived Little Immortal. A sadness I only saw in Himiko. You both lift that sadness from each other. Why wouldn’t I want the both of you to be happy?â€

“I… I’m an outsider,†he stammered.

“And I am a strange little monk who raised an orphan girl most people consider damaged. I’ve been around long enough to know our only difference is the skin covering us. Outside of some minor philosophy issues that is.â€

“I can’t give her children.â€

“I doubt she can have children†Naoto said sadly. “The attack I saved her from as a young girl was very specific. Even I doubted she would last through the night.â€

“I’ll outlive her.â€

“You were going to anyway.†Naoto watched him pace trying to think of another reason. “Owen do you love her?â€

Owen didn’t answer right away. The last time he could say he was actually in love with somebody was Deborah. He didn’t feel that way about Himiko. But he had to be honest with himself, what he felt for felt like what he had with Deborah, it was just different. And as with Deborah he couldn’t see his life without her. Without a doubt in his mind he told him, “Yes.â€

“Then why deny yourself and her years of happiness.†He walked over to and put a hand on his shoulder, “I would be honored to call you my brother Owen.â€

“I would be honored as well.â€

“Come,†he said as he guided him into the house, “let us see what Himiko thinks about all of this. Although I’m pretty sure what her answer is going to be she has surprised me in the past. If she agrees I’ll perform the ceremony myself.â€

~now~

Owen pulled up to the temple and couldn’t get himself to move. After a moment Natalya pulled up saying she was there for moral support. Walking into the temple Owen looked at the forest nearby knowing why he picked this place. Silently they walked through the temple and found Naoto dressed in traditional ceremonial clothing on the other side near the forest. To his surprise he saw Harris there with him. He looked over and waved as he went back to his conversation with Naoto. They both laughed as Naoto said, “He was still mad for a week after you left. I haven’t laughed so hard in a long time Scott I thank you for that.â€

“I’m just happy to find somebody else who shares my sense of humor.†Twisting around he looked Owen over, “And why are you bringing all the sunshine to this dreary day.â€

“I believe he’s here to see me Scott,†Naoto stood up and stared into Owen still angry eyes. “Have you made a decision Little Immortal?â€

“I have to tell you one thing,†Owen said trying to keep calm. He couldn’t. “Who in the **** do you think you are?!†Harris started to get up to defend him but Naoto motioned for him to stop. “How dare you put me in this position! I really want to tell you I hate you for putting this on me.†His eyes started to water and his voice began to crack, “But I’ll honor your request.â€

“Thank you Owen,†Naoto said. “I know this was a hard decision for you.†Owen picked up his walking stick as Naoto turned to Harris, “Thank you for seeing me today Scott. You definitely have a way of brightening ones day, even if it is for the last time.†He looked at Owen and they both headed for the forest.

Harris looked confused but he quickly put the pieces together. “No,†he said and got in front of Owen and reached into his jacket. “Not him, I won’t let you do this.â€

“Scott,†Naoto said, “let us pass. It is my final wish, please honor it.â€

“Why him?â€, he asked. “Why not me? Why not somebody else?â€

“Scott you are my friend, and I will cherish that friendship dearly in this life and into the next. You are the only one who could do my special speed strike and turn it into something else. But Owen is my brother. There is no one else I would ask to do this.†Harris stared at them but he stepped aside. Naoto led Owen deep into the forest and into a small clearing. Looking at the canopy above them Naoto said, “I know you think you life is one loss right after another. Your Father, Deborah, Himiko. And I apologize for adding another one to that. If it would make you feel better I could challenge you.â€

“You’d just leave yourself open,†he said hoarsely.

“True,†he agreed. “Say a prayer for Himiko on her birthday.â€

“I haven’t missed a year yet,†Owen told him.

Neither saying another word Naoto went down to his knees and held his head high. Owen gripped one end of the walking stick and pulled revealing the katana hidden inside. Standing by his side Owen slowly raised the blade up. Naoto closed his eyes, “Owen… arigato.â€

The blade lowered slightly as a wave of sadness almost over took him. Bringing it back up he held back the tears, “Goodbye…Senpai.†He swung the sword. The forest light up as the sound of thunder and a lone man screaming filled the air. After it was over Owen cried to himself for a few minutes before getting to his feet and heading back to the temple. The moment he came out from the tree Natalya ran to him and put her arms around him. He looked over at Harris who looked dejected. Feeling the scar on his neck he let go of Natalya and walked over to him. “Are we going to have a problem now?â€

“I want to say yes,†he said, “but I’ll honor his final wish.†Twisting around on the stone bench so he was facing the other way he got up and walked away. “Besides, you might have a chance against Big Evil now. Or maybe yo€™t. Can’t tell until it happensâ€

“That’s it,†Owen got in his way. “Who in the hell is Big Evil? I asked Susan like you said, all she gave was a name, Dijkhuizen, and not much else. Now who in the hell is this guy?â€

Harris started to smile, “The stuff Immortal nightmares are made of my friend. A man who won’t think twice about taking a immortal’s head while they’re indisposed. A man who will awaken a new immortal just so he can take their Quickening right after. The very man your Uncle set after you.†Putting his hands behind his head he walked round Owen and continued on his way without a care in the world. “I was kind of worried before, but now it looks like the entertainment won’t be ending that quickly after all. That’s good for me, not so good for you. Depends on how it goes really. Now if you will excuse me I have to find some soft comfort, I did just lose a friend after all.â€

Owen watched him leave, even more confused than ever. Again with this supposed “Uncle†of his? He wasn’t sure what type of game Harris was playing but he was getting tired of it.

 

[scikaiju]

Sitting at a table in a local bar Rob lightly rubbed the Watcher tattoo on the inside of his right wrist. He never regretted joining the Watchers, however he was questioning the current group he was with. Ever since he discovered the man who recruited him turn out to be an Immortal himself. And he stood by and did nothing as their “friends†executed him. His silent thoughts were broken by the realization that somebody joined him at the table. The first thing he saw was some Egyptian style eyeliner and subconsciously tried to hide his tattoo. He was looking at the man he was assigned to watch. “Pardon me friend,†he said pleasantly, “but I noticed you were sitting here deep in troubling thought. Seeing how I lost a friend today I hope you don’t mind if I joined you. Misery loves company as they say. Although why anybody would want to be around anybody who is miserable never made sense to me. But my manners are atrocious, please forgive me. My name is Scott Harris.â€

Unsure of what else to say he stammered, “Rob… Rob Wong.â€

“Well Rob Rob Wong,†he repeated with a humorous tone, “I hope you don’t mind the intrusion. What is troubling you, if I may be so bold?â€

Rob was a little wary. He’d read the file on Harris before actually getting started on the job. He knew the types of games he liked to play. He didn’t want to give this Immortal any ammunition to be used against him in the future. But he had to tell somebody, what he was feeling was twisting his insides into knots. Maybe if he choose his words carefully, “I have these… associates that I thought had a good idea. Now I’m wondering if they were right after all and I can’t see a way out of it.â€

“Ah,†he said in understanding, “That is a tricky one. Am I correct in assuming these associates of yours are extremely good at hunting people down?â€

Trying not to wince at his choice of words Rob replied with a, “You could say that.â€

“You do indeed have a problem,†Harris said. Grabbing a passing waiter’s attention he quickly ordered two beers. “It’s on me and you do look like you could use more than one drink,†he gestured toward the barely half empty glass in front of him. “It’s a pity you can’t be like me and follow where the wind takes you.â€

Again he tried to suppress a reaction. He never knew what they meant when they told him that they hoped his passport was up to date until after he started following him. Rob didn’t think it was possible to see that much of the world that fast. “Well some of us are a little more tied down than others.â€

“I was once too,†Harris said, “until I was born again. Oh not in the Christian holier than thou sort of way. That would be tedious, and quite honestly rather boring. But my rebirth did start with a bit of a bang.â€

~1918~

Scott thought it was over right then and there. In a severe case of wrong place wrong time a German bomb landed right close to him and exploded as he turned to run. He felt the force of the blast before hearing the deafening bang. He didn’t even have time to pray for anything and was positive the next thing he was going to feel was the hellfire and brimstone the Sister was always warning him about in the orphanage. The he woke up. Outside of his clothes being in tatters he was perfectly fine. What was going on? Stumbling to his feet he quickly got away from there before somebody noticed him. He wasn’t aware he walked into a cemetery when he felt this strange sensation that made him grab his head. “Why do the newborns always do that?â€, a voice with a slight Scottish accent said with some disdain. Scott looked around and saw an older man in his fifties look on in disgust. “I guess we better get this out of the way. My name is Malcolm McAllister.â€

After a few moments he was able to answer, “Scott Harris.â€

“Where are you going? Answer me boy I don’t have all day.â€

“Here there and everywhere,†Scott answered.

“Ah you’re a vagrant,†Malcolm said while walking away.

“I am not,†Scott said following. “I’m a wonderer. A free spirit not tied down to anything.â€

“Like I said a vagrant,†he said. Turning around to look at him one more time Malcolm seemed to study him. There were very few people whose gaze made Scott want to squirm. This was very, very close. “You better come on before somebody else finds you. I swear all these years alive is starting to make me go soft.â€

“What do you mean?â€

Malcolm started to answer then something caught his eyes and made him duck behind some bushes. Scott was about to ask what he saw when he when Malcolm grabbed him by the arm and pulled him under cover. “Silence boy,†he whispered. “That is what I am talking about.â€

Scott looked through the bushes to where he was pointing. A man with long black hair and wearing dark clothes walked the body lined street. Both of them watched, Scott with fascination and Malcolm with some dread as he examined each body. Then he smiled and reached into his coat. Scott heart started beating faster as he pulled out a sword with a red blade. He could do nothing as he reached down and picked up one poor bastard who was laying face down by the hair. With one swing he took his head clean off. Scott felt his legs go rubber at the sight. Then he saw the lightning come from the body being absorbed by the person in black. At best he mustered a weak, “Big Evil.â€

“What?â€, Malcolm asked confused.

“Big Evil,†he started to say louder until Malcolm shushed him and clamped a hand over his mouth.

“He hasn’t sensed us yet. Let’s keep it that way boy. No what is this big evil nonsense.â€

“This nun at the orphanage I grew up in warned me about him when she caught me misbehaving and nothing else would work. She used to tell me about a man dressed in black that would come after you when you were naughty. A man with a sword made of blood who will cut off your head and take your soul. An evil so big you wouldn’t see him coming until it was too late.â€

Malcolm chuckled at the story, “Obviously this nun knew what you were. That man is called Dijkhuizen, and there is a reason why I only deal with him on holy ground. But I definitely try to avoid any unnecessary contact with him. He’s been after my head for a long time.â€

“What did you do?â€

Malcolm smacked him in the head, “Don’t let a made up fairytale rule your life boy. Wait here and keep your mouth shut, unless he comes in this direction he won’t notice us.†Scott was never so quiet in his life.

~now~

Rob just sat there listening. It took him a while to realize Harris just told him how he became an immortal, but found a way to say it that didn’t even imply his history or what he was. It could have happened last month the way he told it. He was stunned but he managed to play along and say, “I don’t remember hearing about any explosion recently.â€

“It was outside the country,†he answered. “No offence my friend but you Americans rarely seem interested in the things that happen outside your borders.â€

“Actually I’m Canadian,†Rob informed him.

“My apologies for assuming,†he said. He quickly bought another round. “A small penance for such a mistake. It’s real hard not to assume things,†he said looking deep in thought. “Like that Sister who helped raise me in the orphanage. I would have thought I knew exactly who she was. Don’t get me wrong my friend, I adore the woman to death. Most of the nuns gave up on me as a lost cause. They didn’t say it out loud but I could see it in their eye, but not her. I thought she was a saint. Then I realized me and here had more in common than I originally thought. And she knew it the entire time.â€

~1940~

Scott sat on a boulder in the cold night. He didn’t mind the cold, after he left the orphanage he spent many a night without a proper roof over his head. It was a lifestyle he never grew out of. Besides why tie yourself down in one place when there was a whole world to see? He felt the presence of another Immortal and quickly took out his sword. An old pirate cutlass he recently acquired, he wouldn’t have bothered taking it from that decent old man he met in the last town he was in but the jewels covering hilt just grabbed his attention and wouldn’t let him go. He found a blond haired woman looking around as well, one he recognized all too well. “Sister, how very good to see you again.â€

“Scott?â€, Susan said coming closer to get a good look at him. He noticed she was keeping an eye on his sword, and that her right hand wasn’t visible. More than likely gripping her own sword. “So is this how it’s going to happen?â€

He thought it over for a moment before saying, “It wouldn’t be much of a reunion if one of us ended up dead now would it?†returning to the boulder he went back to watching the area he was studying before she showed up. “Besides I wouldn’t want to miss out on finding out who the winner was.â€

“What winner?â€, she asked. Then they both saw and felt it, a Quickening. Scott leaned in as he waited intently. Soon somebody walked into view and looked around before heading off.

“I’m surprised it was him,†he said while scratching his chin. “I was positive the other one would have won.â€

“Scott what are you talking about?â€

“Those two had a small issue with each other,†he said nonchalantly. “I happened to over hear it. So I just pushed a few things and made this happen. I’m really quite amazed at the results.â€

“You caused them to fight?†Susan took him by the arm and made him face her. Scott resisted an urge to squirm he hadn’t felt in over thirty years. “Scott this is a very dangerous game you’re playing. I want you to promise me that you’ll never do anything like that again.â€

“I wish I could Sister,†he said getting free from her grasp.†But if I did I would be lying to you and I cannot do that.†Walking away with his hands behind his head he continued, “It’s not the first time I did such a thing. I find it makes life so much more…,†he searched for the right word, “interesting.â€

~now~

“You make people fight each other?â€, Rob said still playing along. Although he didn’t remember reading about that particular meeting in Harris’s file. Then again Watcher files from back then were often lost in boxes in attics or destroyed forever somehow. With no good way of keeping each other up to date it was no wonder there were so many false reports of the Gathering happening, it was easy to lose track of thing. Not like they are now.

“Of course not,†Scott said. “I just discover or happen overhear about a problem some people are having. And I do my best to get them together. If they just happen to result to violence, well that was how it was meant to be. Or maybe not, it’s hard to say really.†His expression was hard to crack. What was going through that head of his? “It is extremely hard to find others who share my love of life,†he stated changing subjects. “There are times I think I am alone in how I see the world. Then I met a person like my recently departed friend. Oh he wasn’t exactly like me of course.â€

“I get the feeling you could only hang around somebody who was just like you,†Rob commented.

“Well that would just be boring,†he stated simply. “I don’t think I could get along with me at all. Which is strange because I think I’m absolutely fascinating.â€

“So what was so special about your friend?

A sad smile gracing his lips he said, “We had a similar sense of humor.â€

~1982~

With the wind carrying the salty sea air Scott and Naoto faced each other, kendo sticks in hand. Without warning Naoto struck first coming in fast. Scott blocked and waited, he knew it was going to come eventually. He saw the older immortal lips tighten a bit as he continued to parry his strikes. Then he saw him set up for it. Scott blocked his special speed strike on his first attempt. Then he came at him hard, his wooden blade going faster and faster until Naoto had to back up from the assault. Then Naoto did something new that broke through his attack and cracked the stick on top of his head. It caused him to see stars and fall straight on his ass. Resting the kendo stick on his shoulders he smirked, “Very good Scott. I didn’t think it was possible it was possible to do that more than once. Not to mention I didn’t think it was possible for anybody to move that fast.â€

“My reflexes have always been faster than anybody else,†Scott told after his vision cleared, “especially after the bomb. People say I could steal the badge off of an officer with him looking right at me. I did actually, one lazy Brazilian afternoonâ€

“That’s not something to be proud of Scott.â€

Popping back on his feet his response was, “Maybe it is maybe it isn’t, who can say. I delivered it back to the station that same night all tied up in a neat little bow. No harm no foul. Of course I’m not really sure what the penalties of that sort of thing are. I never stayed around in one place long enough to find out or care.â€

“I imagine you’ll be leaving soon,†Naoto commented while taking the kendo stick back.

“Either tonight or in the morning. Depends on when the wind decides to take me really.†Looking over the man he considered a friend, he asked, “You can do it too you know. Get out of this temple and dust yourself off. Before Inoki decided to get even for the whoopee cushion incident.â€

Naoto laughed at the memory of the recent incident, “I have never seen one man get so embarrassed in my life or hear the dining hall get so quiet. Outside of the two of us snickering before busting out laughing. I would like to see the world again,†he said after a moment. “But I’m still trying to find something I lost inside me. Besides traveling like that is for the young, not for those who are old and are feigning being responsible. Do try and come this way again in the future Scott. I do enjoy our conversations.â€

“If the wind sends me this way you’ll see me againâ€, Scott assured him. “Now if you will excuse me I suddenly have a taste for some seafood.â€

~now~

Again another meeting he didn’t have any knowledge of. But Harris did spend a couple of weeks in Japan, and he did seem genuinely upset when that Naoto person let the younger McAllister kill him. So it was possible that was true. But he was still amazed Harris was able to tell that story and not give a time frame for it. Rob was about to inquire further when he noticed Harris had this strange look in his eyes and immediately turned toward the door. Two young people stopped in the entrance way and peered around. He recognized the woman almost immediately, Serenity Sheldon. Harris had an encounter with her a short time back. Smiling a bit Harris turned back toward him, “If you will excuse me friend I must part ways. All night I was looking for a little soft comfort to help lighten the loss of my friend. Imagine my surprise when she walked right in the door.â€

Fearing this would go south in a hurry Rob continued to play along, hoping this wouldn’t count as interferance, “So how much of what you told me was true?â€

Spreading his hands out wide Harris simply said, “My friend it was all true.â€

“Even the lies?â€

With a mysterious glint in his eyes and a mischievous smile he answered, “Especially the lies. It makes life so much more interesting.†Before he could say another word he left the table and headed for other Immortals. Rob quickly called for the bill before getting set to follow him. He suddenly realized the other man was McAllister’s current student. This could go bad in a real hurry.

“What are you doing here?â€, Keith asked. Serenity didn’t looked pleased to see him either but she wasn’t backing away from him either.

“I just come to say hello to the lovely lady.†He took her hand and started to kiss it. Keith slapped his hand away. Serenity started to chastise him for doing that while Harris rubbed his hand. “My friend I don’t think that was your call to make.â€

“I’m not your friend,†Keith told him. “And she told me what you did to her.â€

“Keith just drop it,†Serenity told him. “He’s not worth it.â€

Looking pleased Harris said, “It must have not been that terrible of an experience otherwise she would have tried to take my head by now. And apparently bragging about it as well.â€

“That’s it you and me outside,†Keith said and walked out the door.

“Keith don’t be stupid,†Serenity said. Stuffing his hands in his pockets Harris followed him out. “Wait Scott he doesn’t…,†she started to say. “Don’t do this.â€

A small crowd followed them out as Rob tried to get into a good position. Keith didn’t wait for him when he threw a punch. Hands still in his pockets Harris dodged everything that was thrown at him. Rob had a little experience fighting but even he could tell Keith was overmatched here. Serenity said nothing but looked on in slight disgust at the display. Keith put everything he had in one punch and again Harris moved. Keith fought to keep his balance. Finally taking a hand out of his pocked Harris tapped him sharply in the back of the head. It was enough to send Keith to the sidewalk. He went to get back up as Harris opened his coat. Both Rob and Serenity saw the jewel encrusted hilt inside. Keith got the message and stayed down. Harris looked in his and Serenity’s direction and simply waved before walking off. Serenity quickly followed him with Rob close behind. “What was all that ab she demanded.

“Nothing major as you would put it,†Harris. “He wanted a fight and I gave him one simple as that.â€

“He challenged you.â€

“And he wasn’t armed,†Harris told her, “unlike yourself. Don’t look so surprised, I’m sure the Sister told if you live long enough you can tell who’s armed and who isn’t. And quite honestly where is the sport in that. Besides his death looks like would upset you and I can not allow that to happen.†This time he took her hand and with no interference kissed it. “Until we meet again and under less hostile circumstances.†Serenity just stood there and watched him leave with his hands behind his head. Rob watched her look at him for a long time before finally turning around and checking on Keith. Rob was certain of one thing, tailing Scott Harris was never boring. Now if he could just figure out who he pissed off to get this assignment.

 

[scikaiju]

Nobody thinks going to the store is going to change your life. But that’s what happened to Serenity. She walked in at the same time the place was being robbed. One of the gunmen was jumpy and shot her as soon as she stepped through the door. Everything after that was one big blur and the last thing she remembered was people standing over her. Then she woke up seeing a blond haired woman hovering over her smiling. “Am I dead?â€, she asked weakly she tried to ignore this sensation that was making her ill.

“You were,†she said. “I’ll explain everything in good time. Although I must say though you’re a little calmer than most people are once they awaken. I tried to kill the person the first person I saw when I did.â€

“I don’t understand,†she said getting up. Taking in a sharp breath she realized where she was, a morgue. “Oh my God what’s going on?! What the **** are you going to do to me?! **** you were trying to harvest my organs weren’t you?!â€

“Calm down,†she said softly. “I should have known that was coming. Although the organ harvest is a new one on me,†she added with a slight chuckle. “By the way my name’s Susan. It’s nice to meet you Serenity.â€

“How do you know my name?†Susan didn’t say anything as she handed her wallet. “How did you get this?â€

“The paramedics handed it to the nurses at the ER when they brought you in.†Looking sad she sat next to her. It wasn’t possible but Serenity thought she suddenly looked much older, especially in the eyes. “The surgeons tried to save you but you were fading too fast. I’m sorry we couldn’t save you.â€

“But I’m here right now,†her brow creased as she was suddenly very confused, “aren’t I?â€, she gave in to a urge to look back at the gurney she was on. For some reason she was positive she was a ghost and was going to see her body laying there behind her. There was nothing there. “I’m alive so why are you sorry?â€

“I was hoping you’d be spared from the life you just entered.†Susan gave her a hospital gown to wear then guided her to an empty room so she could clean up a bit and get a proper night sleep. She explained what life she just entered in detail that morning. To say Serenity wanted to freak out would have been the understatement of the millennium. But she always prided herself on being a very level headed person so she took everything in stride. Being just out of training to be a nurse Susan was able to pull some strings and get her assigned at the hospital she worked at. It was a good thing too because Serenity ended up learning a lot more from Susan than she ever did at school.

Then there was the other side of her education, such as learning how to use a sword. It was a bit awkward at first but she quickly got the hang of the basics. After that she quickly excelled. So much in fact Susan arrived in their training place one day carrying long leather case. “I’ve been watching your form. While you’re good with a rapier something tells me this would be more your speed.†Setting the case down she revealed what was inside. It looked like a katana to her but slight smaller, “It’s called a wakizashi, you could say it’s the brethren of the katana.â€

Serenity picked it and tested it. She was impressed at how good it felt in her hands. “I think I can get used to using this.â€

“Sometimes it’s just as important to find the right sword as it is to learn how to use one,†Susan told her with a smile. “You’re life literally depends on it. Take care of it and it will take care of you.†It sounded a little hokey but the woman said she was over twelve hundred years old, so it was possible she knew what she was talking about. Over the next few months Serenity eventually met two people Susan always talked about, Natalya Heidienrich and Owen McAllister. She also ended up “meeting†somebody else she knew, one Scott Harris. That was not a hello she wanted to repeat with anybody, ever. But a much a as she found him irritating she found herself… Serenity quickly tried to forget about him, going so far as striking up a friendship with Owen’s student Keith.

Which made today particularly interesting because she was practicing her sword fighting against him today. Susan said something about it the other day, her and Owen were talking and thought it be a good idea for them to practice against somebody else for a change. Just so they wouldn’t get used to fighting against a particular style. Apparently it was an easy trap to fall into from the way they talked about it. Although Susan said she’d join them later since she couldn’t get away from work as easily as she could Natalya joined them. Keith from the start looked unsure of himself, but as things went better as he became more confident. They both called for a break as Father Andrews came down to the basement. He looked on in wonder past them. They looked where he was, knowing Natalya and Keith decided to practice a bit to. All she could say was “Wow.â€

They were moving and swinging their kendo sticks so fast and so precisely it almost looked like a dance. Both of the younger immortals realized they were watching two people who were so familiar each other it was like they almost knew what the other one was going to do. “Do you think we’d ever be that good?â€, Keith leaned in and asked her. All she could do was shrugged because she doubted she could be that good. They backed up momentarily, Natalya waved him on with a big grin as Owen twirled the sword in his hand before they went at each other again. It was amazing to watch and while she wasn’t sure about Keith but Serenity was absorbing all she could.

Natalya suddenly went low and way able to trip Owen up. He fell to the ground but quickly turned around to block her next strike. She was able to surprise him again by stabbing down, right at his nuts. The stick missed by an inch but he still scooted back and cried out, “Hey!â€

Keeping the kendo stick were it was Natalya smiled sweetly as she tilted her head and gave him an innocent sounding “Oops.â€

“You’re going to get it now brat,†Owen rolled backwards and to his feet as he went at her again. Natalya tried going low again. Owen saw it coming and jumped over it. She came back around this time high. Owen saw that coming too and rolled under it. Getting to a knee he quickly swung his stick back.

There a loud crack as Natalya lurched forward holding her ass, “OW!†She turned around and gave him a furious look. If it could she would have incinerated him on the spot.

Most men would have started looking worried, or at least try to apologizes. Instead Owen looked calm as he tilted his head and mocked her with an “Oops†of his own.

“Now you did it,†she grunted as she started attacking him with the stick. Owen didn’t even try to laugh as he tried to block everything that was coming at him.

Again they fell into an easy rhythm as the other watched. They kept going at each other for several minutes. After awhile the Father commented, “If they keep this up they’re going to drop from exhaustion.â€

“We’ll be lucky of their clothes stay on at that point,†Keith said. Serenity didn’t comment, but from what she heard from Susan and what she’d personally seen. Yeah she wouldn’t doubt it either.

When they finally got them to stop they traded partners. Owen paired up with Keith to see what he was able to pick up while Natalya trained with her. She ended the session early so she could watch Keith and Owen. Keith was looking even more confident this time around as he was able to keep up with his teacher. Owen stepped back and rested the kendo stick on his shoulder looking very pleased, “You’re finally getting it boyo.â€

“It was bound to happen eventually,†Keith said beaming from ear to ear.

Owen bowed before bring the stick back up to attack position. Keith mimicked the gesture and they went at it again. After a bit Natalya lean in and said, “I noticed you and Keith have been spending time together. Is anything happening there?â€

“Nothing’s happening in that way,†she answered,†we’re just friends. Besides he’s not really my type.â€

“Really now?â€, Natalya went. “So what is your type?†She didn’t immediately answer. For some reason she started thinking about Harris again. Shaking her head slightly and hoping Natalya didn’t notice she said she wasn’t sure. “Well you never know. Look at me and Owen. Do you think we thought we were each other’s type when we first met?â€

“Probably not,†she admitted. Then she grinned thinking of something Susan told her. “Of course if Keith every dropped by my place and stripped naked I think I would chop off his head. And I don’t mean the one on his shoulders.†Realizing that was a shot at her Natalya slapped her on the arm.

“Susan really has to learn to keep her mouth shut,†she said. Looking at the clock when the men stopped sparring she said. “Speaking of shouldn’t Susan have gotten here by now? Her shift ended almost an hour ago.â€

“Could be they had an emergency at the hospital,†Serenity suggested. She checked her beeper in case she got a page and didn’t hear it.

“Could be she had a harder time getting those pig spines than she thought,†Owen said

“Pig spines?â€, Keith asked starting to look a little green.

“Yeah that was my idea,†Natalya spoke up. “I suggested it might be a good idea to get you guys used to chopping through a neck.â€

“Well I did hear that a pig’s spin is the closest thing you’re going to be able to get to a human,†Serenity said, although she was feeling a little queasy as well.

“Did you have you guys have to do that when you where starting out?â€, Keith asked them.

“It was a different time boyo,†Owen explained. “That was the punishment for a capital crime most of the time back then. We were used to seeing it. I’ll admit I was a little sick the first time I took a head but it’s part of who we are unfortunately.â€

“I know it’s a part I could do without,†Natalya commented as the Father came down the stairs holding an envelope.

“Owen I just found this in the church, it’s addressed to you.†Owen took it with a quizzical look and opened it. That look quickly went to one of annoyance as he read it.

Looking up at Natalya he said, “Harris again. He wants to met up at a cemetery a couple of blocks from here. You guys keep going, I’ll go see what he wants.â€

“I’m going with you,†Natalya told him, and from the sound of things she wasn’t hearing any arguments about it, “I don’t trust him.†Owen nodded and they headed up the stairs. As soon as they were alone Serenity and Keith looked at each other.

“Are you staying?â€, she asked.

“Are you?â€, he shot back.

“Let’s go.†Shooting past the Father they quickly went after them. Keeping Owen and Natalya in sight they were able to follow them easily. Although a couple of times one of them got a little too close and had to disappear quickly when the older Immortals felt them. Entering the cemetery they were able to hide as they kept following. Keith was able to find a good spot to spy on them as they approached Scott who was sitting on top of tombstone.

Hopping off he waved a bit before saying, “For somebody who wanted to see me I thought you’d be more punctual.â€

Looking confused Owen slowly said, “You wanted to talk to me.â€

Caught off guard Scott went, “Really now? I was wondering how you knew how to contact me.†Starting to walk around he looked a bit upset about something. “Apparently the game has been changed behind my back again. Bad form, extremely bad form.†Serenity noticed the newcomer coming in the opposite direction before the trio sensed him. He was an older man, wearing a kilt and had his hair in a ponytail. “Have you met your Uncle?â€, Scott asked Owen. He just stared at the newcomer. It was like looking at an older version of Owen in a way.

“Really Scott,†he said as he came closer, “Did you really think I wouldn’t find out about you and my half Irish of a bastard nephew?â€

“It makes thing more interesting if he knows what’s coming, don’t you think Malcolm?â€, Scott responded.

“I know you,†Natalya said studying him. Owen looked at her. “It was only for a few moments. My Father spent more time with him than I did.â€

“Yes I recall that event,†Malcolm said. “You spent a good chunk of the evening draping you attention on some young prince or something. You ignored me completely. If you had any class I might have felt offendedâ€

“I think I’ve had enough ‘interesting’ for one day,†Owen said cutting her off response. “I’m out of here.â€

“You might want to rethink that,†Malcolm told. Looking behind his shoulder he simply said, “Michel.†From behind a bush a man with dark hair, wearing a black leather trench coat, clothing and spiked gloves pulled a woman who was bound and gagged into view. He forced her to her knees and drew a sword with a red blade that he held at her neck.

“Susan,†Serenity said. Keith stopped her from heading out there. Then he motioned that they should go in another direction. She agreed but still kept an ear on their conversation.

“You shouldn’t have involved the Sister!â€, Scott lost his temper and grabbed Malcolm by the coat.

“Careful Scott, if Michel thinks you’re going to harm me then something might happen to her.†He let go but both him and Owen was seething at the situation. “So,†Malcolm said getting a good look at him, “so you are my nephew. I must say you are the spitting image of my brother. You’re probably just like him too,†he said disdainfully. He searched Owen, who didn’t dare move, and found his long sword. “Interesting,†he commented and he studied the sword, especially the handle. “And handle and a half, I do believe they call this the bastard version. How appropriate,†he said with a wicked grin

“What the hell do you want?â€, Owen snapped.

“Just to meet you my boy,†he answered, “see what kind of bastard William raised. I just needed the right bait. I wanted this harlot here but you were staying on holy ground all day doing only God knows what. So I went with the next best thing.â€

“Fine we’ve met now just let her go,†Owen said.

“And let go of my only bargaining chip?†Malcolm said looking shocked. “Do you think I’m mad or something? You are just like your father. Now I see I have to put you in your place. Now before I give Michel the word, and I assure you they are not on holy ground, I suggest you do as I say.†Looking smug he said, “Tell me you Mother was an Irish whore.†Owen’s jaw tightened, but he started to say it.

Getting closer to Susan Serenity could hear, “Talk, talk, talk that’s all McAllister dies. And I’m getting bored. Which is bad news for you I’m afraid.†Susan closed her eyes as he pulled the sword away and raised it to strike. Both of them ran out of hiding. Keith bowled him over while she grabbed Susan and headed for the cemetery. Michel quickly got up and knocked Keith into them. Keith scrambled to his feet only pausing to look at her, or more accurately her coat. He reached in and grabbed her wakizashi before she could stop him. He got between them and faced him, sword shaking in his hands. Michel looked amused, “Are you challenging me boy?†Keith said nothing but somehow managed to nod his head. “This should be good.â€

Serenity was able to get Susan back up and guided her to the cemetery. Owen and Natalya rushed over as soon as they could and helped her. Keith and Michel started clashing swords and Owen went to get involved. Serenity got her gag off and Susan shouted, “Owen stop! He challenged him.†Owen did stop but he started shaking his head. Natalya held on to him as they watched the fight. Keith waited patiently as he could at the moment, attacking where he could and blocking, a lot. Michel looked like he was playing with him. Finally Keith stepped back causing Michel to lose balance as he swung hard. Keith practically jumped on him swinging the wakizashi as hard as he could. Michel was on the defense suddenly he swung wildly, slashing Keith in the chest. He grabbed his chest as Michel grabbed him by the hair and slammed Keith’s face into his knee. He dropped the sword and went to his knees. Michel held on to his head. Getting a sick menacing grin he swung his sword. Owen’s knees gave out from under him as Keith’s body dropped to the ground and Michel let go of his head.

“Keith!†Natalya shouted.

He grinned at them as he starting absorbing Keith’s Quickening. Serenity starting crying, not realizing Harris grabbed her and held on to her. On all fours Owen slowly looked up at Michel after it was over and he stepped forward. Smirking at them he saw the look in Owen’s eyes. “Holy ground McAllister,†he taunted. Owen got to his feet and charged him. Grabbing Michel around the waist he lifted him off his feet and took him off holy ground before slamming him to the ground, “Oofâ€. Owen started pounding on him as a rage over took him. Michel was finally able to get him off of him and reached for his sword. Serenity remembered too late that his uncle still had his as Michel grabbed his sword and sliced Owen in the leg. He punched him once in the face then kicked him to the ground. Michel held him down and raised his sword ready for a final strike.

“NO!!!â€, Natalya shouted as Susan tried to hold her back.

Michel stayed in that position for a moment longer than necessary. Glancing up he saw Malcolm make his way toward them. Slowly he turned the sword around until the point was directed at Owen’s face. “I’m going to do something I rarely do this one time and let you live for two reasons. One, you’re not the McAllister I really want. And two, I wouldn’t put it past him to try and take my head while I was recovering from a second Quickening. So consider yourself fortunate.†Then he jammed the sword into Owen’s chest, right into his heart. Twisting the blade a bit he left it there until Owen died. Grinning at Malcolm he walked away from the situation.

“If you want something done rt,†Malcolm muttered as he plunged the long sword into the ground and drew the Claymore out of it’s hiding place. Before Natalya or Susan could stop him Harris let her go. In the next moment Malcolm stopped in his tracks when Scott held his cutlass at his neck.

“Not like this,†was the only thing Scott said. There was a threat in his voice Serenity didn’t think could be there. Natalya ran toward Owen prone form the moment she had the chance. She drew her katana and stood in front of him.

“It’s not worth the effort,†Malcolm said before backing up. He walked away. Scott looked at Susan for a moment before turning away and leaving. Natalya immediately turned to Owen, stroking his cheek and waited for him to come back. Serenity just stood there feeling cold. Keith was dead, and she saw it happen. Her world just turned upside down. She just saw what fate could be in her future and lost a friend in the process. Now she knew what Susan meant when she first met her.

 

[scikaiju]

It seemed wrong for the sun to be shining so brightly on day such as this. In a special section of the cemetery the grey slab they were huddled around simply said “Keith Matthews 1985-2008â€. Right below it was a small simple line, “A friend that will be missedâ€. You would think after twelve hundred years you would get used to seeing death, Susan never did. It was probably a good thing in a way, a friend of hers once told her if you stopped feeling you might as well be dead. She had seen some who did and even she had to question their humanity at times. She turned her attention away from the grave and to Father Andrews who was conducting the service. Susan then glanced over to rest of the small group gathered around it. Ser was silently crying. Natalya was holding on to Owen trying to comfort him. And Owen, now there she was actually worried, he looked devoid of all emotion as he just stood there. In fact this was the first time any of them had seen him since it happened. He was avoiding all of them.

“Amen,†the Father finished and began wiping a tear from his check. They all said amen as well, but still keeping her eyes on Owen it looked like he was just going through the motions. He reached down and grabbed a handful of dirt only to drop it on the dark colored coffin. “I’m going to miss you my boy,†the Father said while Owen walked away from them. “You were taken far too soon.â€

“He had a few extra months he wouldn’t have had originally,†Susan said. “If he wasn’t one of us I mean.â€

“Does thinking that help?â€, he asked.

“No,†she admitted sadly. “Not in the least. It’s a trick to try to ease the pain, but it never does.â€

“It must be hard, continuously losing people you know and care about.†They walked away as cemetery keepers came in and started filling up the hole. “I must be honest there are times I wonder why you take up friendships at all knowing what’s going to happen.â€

“Because it would a very lonely existence if we didn’t.†He only nodded. There were times when Susan didn’t feel as alive as other thought of her. This was one of them, times like these she felt very, very small. “And more than likely we would be driven mad from the loneliness. Just like anybody else.â€

“Owen are you going to be all right?â€, Natalya asked him. She went to put her arms around him but he pulled away from her. “Owen don’t shut me out. I know you’re hurting.â€

“Why don’t you just leave?â€, he said. Natalya looked stunned but Susan closed her eyes. Again he was emotionless.

“Owen…,†she began.

“That’s what you do best right?â€, he continued as he turned around. “Use me to your heart’s content and leave after you’re done.†All of them were taken back by his words. “Well you got what you wanted out of me. So what are you waiting for? Just get out of my life already!â€

His head snapped to the side as Natalya slapped him. Grabbing his face she made him look at her. Holding back the tears she angrily told him, “I am not done with you Owen McAllister. Don’t you ever forget that.†Letting him go with a slight shove she stormed away. The Father was speechless but it looked liked Serenity had a few choice words for him. Susan stopped her and after a moment, after not being able to look at any of them, he left.

“Who in the hell does he think he is?†Serenity demanded.

“Ser look at him,†Susan told her. He didn’t go far before stopping and putting a hand to his mouth and closed his eyes. A moment later he walked off again, not even bothering to look back. “He’s tearing himself up inside.â€

“So? He better start realizing he was acting like a jackass,†Ser said. Susan couldn’t fault her for feeling this angry. She had a few choice words in mind for him, but now wasn’t the time. “He’d be damn lucky if Natalya took him back after that.â€

“Oh I agree with you there Serenity,†the Father said. “But I have known him for a few decades now. Susan even longer than that. We both know what he trying to do. Even if neither of us agrees with the way he’s going about it.â€

“He’s trying to protect us,†Susan clarified for her. “Any immortal worst nightmare is having somebody they care about being used against them in some way. And right now he thinks that the only way to protect us is to drive us away. But that’s the pain thinking for him.†And she sadly realized there was something else, but she kept that to herself for the moment.

“So what do we do?â€, Ser asked.

“For right now we do nothing,†Susan said. “We let those emotions run their course and pray he doesn’t lose in head in the process, figuratively and literally.†She looked back to the grave as Ser and the Father kept going. She thought she saw Scott for a brief moment but whoever it was left before she could be sure.

Like with all things life went on despite how you were feeling. Susan and Ser went back on duty at the hospital. Ser was quieter than usual, not that she could blame her. Of course today death seemed to keep on coming. She was with a family who was standing around and elderly Grandfather. Ser put the sheet over his head as she walked them out the door. “I know it doesn’t help, but he went peacefully. He wasn’t in any pain at all.†They thanked her for doing all they could, his daughter gave her a hug before leaving. Susan walked back into the room and found Ser staring at the sheet. “Sometimes I envy them,†she said as she stood next to her student.

“I don’t understand,†Ser said looking at her.

“They have the option to die peacefully,†she said. “It’s a little unsettling at times knowing you can only die one way.†Serenity started to tear up again. Putting an arm around her she comforted her as best she could. “Why don’t you head home for the night. We can handle things from here.â€

“What if you get an emergency…,†she tried to find an excuse. Anything to avoid being alone right now.

“We’ll be fine,†she assured her. “I’ll call you in the morning and we’ll talk things over.†Reluctantly Ser agreed and Susan walked her to the locker room. Serenity didn’t realize it but sometimes you needed to be alone with your pain for a while. Hopefully she’d live long enough to understand that lesson. Doing her rounds Susan walked off her route and found herself in the maternity ward. One of the little ones was starting to wake up and looked ready to cry. Susan picked her up and talked in soothing tones, “Now now, we don’t want to wake your roommates now do we?†Checking her diaper she realized the little one was probably hungry. Taking a quick look at her chart she said, “Well then Sally let’s go and get your belly full shall we.â€

Making sure she grabbed the right bottle, Susan held her until she was done feeding. Old school instincts had her burp the child before putting her back. Susan lingered a bit just watching the little one go back to sleep, wondering what the future was going to hold for this particular package from heaven. Feeling an Immortal’s presence long before she heard the words she waited, “I thought you doctors were trained not to get attached.†Looking up Natalya stood in the door way. Susan quietly left and joined her outside.

“It’s funny,†Susan mused, “before I became Immortal I couldn’t see children in my life. After I learned I couldn’t have any I felt strangely empty.†Having a hunch about what Natalya wanted to talk about she guided her to the lounge. It was usually empty this time of night so they shouldn’t be interrupted. And she was right because as soon as the door closed Natalya went off about Owen. Susan sat on the arm of couch and let her blow off this head of steam the built up. “Who in the hell does that stupid fucker think he is?!â€

“You have to understand what…â€

“I know what he’s trying to do,†she cut her off. “I was right there and I heard his uncle. They wanted me to use against him, not you.†Susan wasn’t sure what to think about that one, she had no idea that’s what they wanted. “Somehow that bastard knew about us. I don’t know how but he did. He’s afraid they might try it again and succeed next time.â€

“Well they do say forewarned is forearmed.â€

Natalya looked down, when she finally spoke Susan was stunned again, “My flight leaves in a couple of hours. I just… I just come by to say goodbye.â€

Immediately getting up she tried to talk some sense into her, “You don’t have to leave. I’m sure when Owen calms down he’ll be begging for you to stay.â€

Tearing up Natalya had a hard time looking at her, “You might have known him longer, but I know Owen better than anybody. He’s not going to stop acting like a fucking jackass until I’m gone. Beside I don’t know if I want to be here if…,â€. She trailed off and turned away. Susan reached for her and Natalya immediately held on to her for dear life.

Trying to calm her down by lightly stroking her hair the older Immortal said, “I let you know the moment I find out either way.â€

“Thank you.†Giving her a quick kiss on the cheek Natalya left her alone in lounge. Susan wanted to go after her, convince her she was wrong about Owen. But she knew her former pupil was right. She hates it when that happens. Before she left the lounge she took a quick look at the clock. It was one thing to be alone with your pain. It was another thing entirely to isolate yourself from those who can help you through it.

“Darlene, I’m calling an early night,†she said to the nurse at the front desk. “I already talked to Fred and he’s going to take care of the rest of my rounds. I have to see how a friend of mine is doing.†In no time she was at Owens’ apartment building. She felt the buzz as she got closer so she knew he was home. She knocked on the door but he wasn’t answering. She knocked again and again no response. After a third time she added, “Owen I know you’re in there. I’m not leaving until you open this door.â€

Hearing footsteps he opened the door then quickly tried to close it again. Getting a foot in the door she forced her way in. He didn’t try to stop her so she took that as a good sign. Susan closed the door behind her as he went back to the counter. Picking up his long sword he took a whetstone to it’s edge. “I’ve seen you like this before,†she began. “After Korea, after you told me what happened with that girl. You think you’re heading someplace dark and you’re not sure if you can turn back.†Still he said nothing. “You told me your friendship with Father Andrews helped you out then. So why are you tuning everybody out now?â€

“Maybe I don’t want to turn away from the darkness this time around,†he finally said. She studied his eyes and knew there was no conviction there.

“And we both know that’s not you,†she countered. “Everybody knows that’s not you. Even Finlay knew.†He stiffened a bit but he continued to sharpen his blade. “I know Finlay could be a real bastard at times with a skewed world view, but he was right about one thing about you. You’re stuck in the past. You may be living here and now but you mind is always with your Father or Deborah or Himiko. Are you going to add Keith to that list?â€

Slamming the stone on the counter he simmered there. For a brief moment Susan actually feared for her life. But his eyes started to water and tears started to fall soon after. “I should have trained him better,†lowering the sword his voice quivered slightly. “I should have pushed him harder. I never should have stopped until he could handle himself in fight. At least sooner than I did.â€

“And Keith went up against someone he was no match for,†Susan said. “I know you don’t want to hear that. Nobody wants to hear that. But it’s true, it happens in our life.†She went up to him and he silently cried. “But he died doing the one thing he knew you would do, he died trying to save someone.†She held him as he cried a little more openly. “It’s alright to be sad about losing him. That was one thing Finlay was wrong about.â€

“I just see so many things I should have done differently with him. Things I should have done better. He should have had more than just a few extra months.â€

“It happens Owen, we all lose students right after we get them. And we all think it’s way too soon. I know I have more than once.†She wondered if she should bring up her conversation earlier with Natalya. It was what he wanted, or thought he wanted. But she wasn’t sure how he’d react. Still he should know. “I saw Natalya a little while ago.†He braced himself for what she was about to say. “She should be boarding her plane any time now. Of course you know how dependable the take off and arrival times are.â€

He closed his eyes. Damn it she should have made Natalya tell her where she was going. Maybe she could convince Owen there was time to stop her. Instead he said, “It’s better this way. She’s can find and be with somebody worth her time now.â€

“Owen you don’t believe that.â€

“It’s not like there was anything between us any way,†he walked away from her. Now there was a bold face lie if she ever heard one. Of course Susan was sure he was trying to convince himself of that more than here. The lies you told yourself when you were desperate to ease you pain. “We’re just **** buddies nothing more.â€

“Oh really now?â€, Susan wasn’t convinced. She went up to him and kissed him passionately. When she finally pulled away she looked him deep in the eyes. She smiled a bit when she did. “I’ve seen the two of you kiss several times. And you are not looking at me like you do her.†He walked toward a window and wouldn’t look back at her. “Owen you can lie to yourself all you want. But as your friend I’m asking you, don’t lie to me.â€

He was struggling with himself but finally he admitted, “She’ll be safer this way.†Susan was somewhat relieved he finally said it out loud. “She may never want anything to do with me again but I know she’ll be out of their reach. Out of that maniac’s reach.â€

“You donve to tell me anything new there,†Susan said as she sat on one of the stools. “I thought Dijkhuizen was a myth, like Methos, until I came face to face with. Fortunately it was on holy ground otherwise I don’t think I’d be here.†He remained silent, and Susan felt like summing up what he was doing, “So you’re mourning the death of your student, isolating yourself from your friends and drove off one of the few people who would watch your back no matter what and no questions asked. What are you going to do now?â€

“What am I going to do?†he repeated. “I’m going to follow a piece of advice Finlay tried to give me. I’m going to weed out my family tree.†Susan was a bit disappointed in that but understood where he was coming from. “Then,†he gazed into his warped reflection in the blade of his sword. Almost like he was seeing how twisted his soul was right now, “Then I’m going head hunting.â€

 

[scikaiju]

These past couple of days had been something else. Ever since one of Harris’ games apparently went wrong. But that’s what you get when you try to play the guy who taught you everything you knew about being Immortal. Or at least that’s what Rob thought any way. He had always had Peter to talk to before when stuff like this popped up. Well he had Peter before he turned out to be one of them. Now he wasn’t sure who to talk to. Again he started rubbing stylized W of the Watcher tattoo on the inside of his wrist. Peter had been a long time family friend. Rob never saw him as an Uncle or anything, but he was always there. Like that night he accidently walked in on him when he was watching his assigned Immortal. He wanted to call the police right then and there when she saw a woman’s head chopped off. Peter did some fast talking to try and get him not to. Truth be told Rob was stupefied by the Quickening to even understand what he was saying.

He wasn’t sure what to think about that. Peter talked to him, helped him understand what was going on. Even going as far as to offer him a position in the organization. It took a couple of days but Rob eventually agreed. They started him off doing research, studying the history of the immortals. Make sure information from one files doesn’t contradict anything else. He was surprised at how many watchers reported the same Immortal in like three different places at times because they mistaken somebody else for them. Fortunately surveillance techniques had improved since then, otherwise this job would have been impossible. But Peter always stayed in touch, no matter where he was. After a few months he started asking him question, like what he really thought of Immortals. He didn’t think much of it at the time but Rob admitted he had a problem with it. Who wouldn’t when you thought about it? What made these guys so special, and what gave the supposed winner the right to rule over everybody else?

He wasn’t sure when but those questions stared to change. He started asking, hypothetically of course, if he could kill an immortal if he thought it would help things. Not thinking anything of it, he said yeah. But Peter kept pressing the matter. Asking if he could really kill one of them before one of them won. Before long Rob was demanding to know why he was pressing the issue. “I’m going to e-mail you an address,†was his only answer. “Memorize and delete it. Meet me there in two days at eight o’clock.†In a matter of moments he got it. He didn’t have a reason not to trust Peter so Rob did as he asked. When he got there he found Peter and several other men. “Here he is Trevor,†Peter said. The man next to him came forward, gently rubbing the cross around his neck between his thumb and forefinger. He looked him over as he circled him.

“So,†he said evenly, “you think you can kill these abominations do you?†Rob wasn’t sure how to answer. “They are extremely hard to kill you know. There is only one way.†One of them men with them hefted an ax, Rob wanted to back up. “So what department are you in?â€

“Records.†He said trying hard not to sound scared. This Trevor seemed to appreciate his attempt.

“A scholar, it’s been a while since we’ve had one of them in our little group.†Trevor stopped walking around him and headed back to Peter. “But the man was careless, let himself get caught by the others. But I’ll give him credit for one thing, he never sold us out. Not even at his execution.†Rob started to sweat, who in the hell were these guys.

“The council is watching the record keepers a little closer now,†Peter said. “I almost didn’t want to bring him in because of it.â€

“True,†Trevor nodded. “Then again, he never was really that helpful, especially these days when you can get the information you want at your fingertips.†Looking thoughtful he studied Rob again. “You know Bill was saying they’re looking for some new field agents. The good Lord knows we could use the right people in the field. Help grow the ranks a little.†It was about then Rob realized who these guys were. He had heard rumors of Watcher who hunted down Immortals. Dear God he was being recruited.
“Peter I do believe you and I have enough strings to pull to fast track him into some field work. Lord knows it’s been done before so we shouldn’t stand out.â€

“Maybe it should just be me,†Peter said. “After all up till now he never met you officially.â€

“Quite right Peter, quite right,†Trevor said thinking it over. “However I do believe I owe you a favor as well. We could always say you’re called that in to help him.†Walking back over to him he asked, “What do you say young man, do you want to do the Lords work and send these abominations back to him? If that’s where they were supposed to go to begin with.â€

Rob looked at the group around him then looked over at Peter who just nodded at him, silently urging him to answer. Yes,†Rob finally said.

Giving him the warmest smile he had ever seen Trevor told him, “Then Robert welcome to the first day of the rest of your life.â€

True to their word he was soon put through Watcher boot camp. Learning everything he needed to know about watching, following and recording an Immortal’s life. It wasn’t long after that he was given his first assignment, Scott Harris. He had to have pissed off somebody to get this character. For a relatively young Immortal his file was almost as thick as the ones a few hundred years old. At least Peter and Trevor understood why he never recruited anybody else to their cause, especially Trevor. They told him to just grin and bear it, that somebody was playing a joke on him and they would try to get him reassigned when the opportunity came up.

But Harris proved to be an interesting challenge, you never knew when he was going to up and move to another state or province, if not a different country altogether. At least once Rob lost track of him, fortunately he quickly popped up on the Watcher database. Fortunately that incident was early in his assignment and he learned from that mistake. Of course that meant maybe sleeping a few hours a night at times. Which was why Rob was thanking his lucky stars when Harris decided to stay in Chicago for more than a couple of days. It wasn’t much but at least Rob could stop and catch his breath. Of course he wasn’t expecting him to start buying him a drink in bar on more than one occasion. Yeah he had to really talk fast when Trevor found that out. He started yelling that they didn’t need another Dawson giving away all of their secrets. And that they would be watching him to make sure he didn’t screw up. Times like that he really missed Peter.

Rob still didn’t know why Harris was doing it. For all he knew the Immortal was growing bored while his game was going so slow. Despite his caution, he was amazed at how open the Immortal was about his life, to a degree, telling him things that happen but with a modern spin so he wouldn’t be dated. Rob didn’t want to admit it but he was actually enjoying the act Harris was putting on. Then his game backfired, somebody died who wasn’t supposed to according to his rules. And Rob was shocked when he figured he wasn’t mad the rules were changed. He actually seemed sad, not to the point where he vowed never to play Immortals against each other again, but he could see it in his face.

Although Rob was certain he wasn’t sad Matthews died. No he was upset he made Sheldon sad. That surprised Rob slightly to be honest, he never really saw Harris as a person who cared about what somebody else thought. But he was surprised again when following Harris he came across Sheldon on a relatively deserted street and got on his knees. “What are you doing?†he asked stiffly.

“Something I started eventually made you sad,†he told her. “I said I never wanted to do that. So I want to set things right. I can still see you have your sword so take my head in the chance it would lighten the load you carry on your shoulders.†He held his head up, totally exposing his neck. Rob thought she was going to do when she reached into her jacket. Then she remained empty handed.

“No,†she said, “I want you to live with this. I want you to live with the fact Keith is dead because you wanted to play a stupid fucking game.â€

“As you wish,†Harris said. Popping up to his feet he held his hands behind his head but he wasn’t moving. “And I am said to see him go. He came to your defense at the hospital and tried to defend your honor at the bar, so he must have been a decent fellow. Much like his mentor I would imagine.â€

“I’m not too sure about him,†she said sadly, “not any moreâ€. Harris looked interested about what that comment was about. Sheldon seemed to realize that and went somewhere else. “You’re damn lucky Susan is worried about how you’re reacting to what happened. If it was me I’d kill you the first chance I saw you.â€

“In another time I’m sure she would,†Harris mused. “I’ve learned things about her younger days that would make your hair stand out on end.â€

“I think she’s out of her mind but she thinks there something in you worth saving.â€

“Maybe there is,†he said, “or maybe there isn’t. Who can really say when you come down to it? But much like Susan I can judge a person character and mood at a glance. And you are uncomfortable right now. No not with this particular moment but the situation in general.â€

“You don’t know what you’re talking about,†Serenity said and quickly walked away. Hands behind his head Harris followed.

“You’re uncomfortable with this city, this life. Part of you wants to get away, start somewhere else.†She turned around and started to say something but Harris spoke before she could. “I see it in the mirror every time I hear the wind. I see it on the face of any immortal when it’s time for them to move and end their current life.â€

“I don’t think I belong here anymore,†she admitted. Although Rob had no idea why. He figured Harris walked the world so much he could basically read people at will and get them to say what he wanted. “I lived here all my life and for the first time it feels foreign, fake.â€

“Death has a way of doing that,†Harris said. “I used to love Paris, I haven’t been back since the fifties.†Dropping his hands to the side he said, almost nonchalantly, “You need to get away. Leave this town and see the world.â€

“I can’t just up and leave,†she said. “I’m not you.â€

“Ah that’s the Sister talking,†Harris said with a wag of a finger. “But even she will tell you you’ll have to leave eventually. No Immortal is destined to stay in one place for long, no matter how hard they try. I could take you.†Again she started to say something, “Ah ah, just something to think over, a thought to mull around your head. I will be here for a little while longer, so you’re answer can wait until my business is finished.â€

“You’re still doing your game,†Serenity said with some disgust.

“It’s already begun, it would rude to leave before it’s even finished,†he told. To Rob it looked like he was shocked she would even say that. “It is who I am, it is what I do. It is one of the things that makes me… me. I do not change for anybody, nor do I expect anybody, especially you, to change for me. If we lose what makes us who we are than who are we?â€

“I’m not leaving,†she told him flatly.

“Yes you will,†he insisted. “With me or alone I truly cannot say, but leave you will. The thought was already in your head, I simply brought out to the fore front. Until you make your decision my dear,†he went to kiss her hand but she pulled it away. Taking it in stride he bowed and walked away. Rob lingered a bit and watched Serenity. She should have stormed off, at least cussed him out. But she stood there a few moments watching him before walking away in the opposite direction. With That Rob decided to call it a night before that scene started to make sense to him.

As much as he missed Peter, he found it slightly ironic people were turning to him to talk to. He’d only knew Bekah a short time, only since she was came to the city, but they formed a quick friendship. She often stopped by his place for coffee to talk things over. And he cringed slightly when he learned she was assigned to watch Dijkhuizen. He remembered reading his file back when he was checking older records, this guys was practically the poster child for Trevor’s agenda. Which was why he was so surprised to see Bekah so torn about him. “He reads poetry for God sakes. What kind of monster does that?â€, she argued when he called him that without thinking. “He went to an art museum the other day and schooled the guide about a particular painting they were standing in front of.â€

“He’s been around for a thousand years,†Rob told her. “Anybody bound to pick up something outside of knowing how to kill a person.â€

“There’s more to him than that,†she said, looking odd to him. “I know there is. But there’s nothing about this in his file anywhere. The only thing his previous Watchers wrote about was all the death and destruction. There’s nothing good about him anywhere. If there’s nothing good… than why did he save me?â€, she ended softly.

“Bekah, I’m going to tell you this as a friend, but I think you’re trying too hard to find something that isn’t there.†Rob sat next to her at the table. She wouldn’t or couldn’t look at him. “I don’t know what he was thinking. Hell I don’t even know how he knew your name. But more than likely he saw a challenge and decided to act on it. You know I’m right.â€

“I don’t know,†she said.

“Go home and sleep on it,†he told her. “Get a clear head. You’re not doing yourself any favors trying to turn this guy into something he’s not in your head.â€

“You’re right,†she eventually admitted. “I’m letting one incident cloud my judgment. Thanks Rob,†she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. “I’ll see you later.â€

He walked her to the door and dropped his head when he was alone. Literally a second before she got there Trevor sent him an e-mail. They were in the mood to go hunting again and they wanted him to pick the next target. Luckily he closed the e-mail before he answered the door. And Rob didn’t think he could explain that one away easily. Harris maybe but not him. Ever since Peter was killed he had nobody to talk to about his doubts about all of this. But knowing what Peter would say he logged into the Watcher database and went hunting for a target. The first thing he did was eliminated anybody they were assigned too. He still couldn’t believe they agreed with him when he first suggested that. Which also made Malcolm McAllister a very lucky man otherwise he would have been on top of the list.

The next thing he did was check for updates for any Immortal who recently died. Then he did his best to cross off any one who left the city or was planning on leaving anytime soon. If they were lucky enough to get out of town now who was he to mark them for death. He did the same with any Immortal just entering the city too. It just seemed rude for some reason. So his list was narrowed greatly, and he arranged it order of age. Some of the names that popped out at him were Susan Jones, Michel Dijkhuizen and Owen McAllister. There were more but those names stood out. Rob highlighted Jones’s name and deleted it from the list. She already faced death once, there was no point in putting her through any more this soon. Yeah Peter would tell him he was crazy for thinking that.

He went up and down the list several times but his eyes kept going back to McAllister and Dijkhuizen. Dijkhuizen he could see, the man was a maniac. McAllister was usually a decent guy according to his file. But after he lost his student he was apparently cutting himself off from everybody he knew and training like crazy when he wasn’t looking for his Uncle. Rob didn’t want to think it but it was possible he was going to tip over the edge and become something dangerous. It might be better to put him out of his misery now. Continue to study both files Rob made his decision. He shot an e-mail to Trevor and arranged a meeting. He always wanted this done face to face with the others. He claimed there was a lesser chance of the message being intercepted or something.

Hours later at a parking garage nobody hardly used Rob pulled up and found Trevor and the others waiting for him. Grunting a few greetings to those who welcomed him he set his lap top on the top of the hood of his car. Without a word he pulled up the file and turned it around. The image of Michel Dijkhuizen stared them in the face. Trevor walked away as Marcus whistled, “Damn man you don’t think small do you.â€

“I’m not sure about this one,†Trevor said in a real small voice. All of them looked at him, he usually saying things like “A perfect target†or “The abomination days are numberedâ€. Nobody, as far as Rob knew, saw him unsure about anything. He saw them looking at him and quickly tried to backtrack, “I mean this man is a monster…â€

“Which is why we should take him down now,†Rob asserted. “You keep calling these thing abominations. Well this is the goddamned poster child. Some record keepers I used to work with put him right up there with the Kurgan. Not all of them but a few have. This guy does nothing but take heads, and he’s getting stronger with each one he takes. If we want to make sure none of them can win the Prize we have to start with him before we can’t.â€

“What if we’re already too late?â€, Trevor asked.

“Then we should stop hunting these freaks right now,†Rob told him plainly.

“The kid’s right,†Marcus spoke up. “Enough of these small fry, if we really want to protect humanity we need to start taking out the stronger ones. This maniac is the perfect target.†The others started to quickly agree with them, all except for Trevor.

Grabbing at his cross he thought long and hard. Before long he brought it to his lips and kissed it. “Your right of course,†he finally said. “I let the myth around the man get to me for a second. How… human of me.†A few of them laughed at his joke, Rob didn’t find it funny. “Robert I know you want ton in on the fun but I’m going to ask you to stay back for this one. Some of the other Watchers are getting suspicious of us. As far as I know they don’t know about you yet it would be better in the long run if they didn’t. It’s hard enough to do what is necessary without the others breathing down your neck.â€

“I understand,†Rob said, trying hard to hide the relief he was feeling at the moment.

“Will kick him extra hard for you kid,†Marcus said as he past him and the group started to disburse. Surprised his shaking knees didn’t give him away he slowly turned around and packed up his laptop. He was going to try to find a way out of it anyway, saying he didn’t know when Harris was going to move and he already lost him once.

But as he started to get back into his car he heard Trevor say one thing. He muttered, “It’s going to be hell explaining this one to McAllister.†Now what did he mean by that?

 

[scikaiju]

Sitting in a car on a chilly night, eating some cold Chinese food Bekah waited. She sighed a bit as she moved the remnants of the carton around with her chop sticks. Most people had somewhat normal family business they went into, mom and pop stores, restaurants, hell multimillion dollar corporations. Not her family. No they were Watchers for about five generations now. She knew things about certain Immortals that of most others didn’t. There were a few things she wishes she could wipe from her mind completely. But that’s what you get when you’re teenager wanting to stick it you your parents when they tell you not to look in those files. Nights like tonight wouldn’t be so bad if this Watcher thing paid, luckily with her connections she could at least get her travel expenses covered. Everything else was up to her.

But that’s where having friends comes in handy. Rob was able to point out a bookstore that was looking for some part time help. The pay wasn’t much, but it paid her bills and the hours were flexible enough that she could do her other job with minimum hassle. She just dreaded the day she was in the field and her boss would call her to come in for an extra shift. Considering how close she got sometimes Bekah was jumpy enough as it is. And with her assignment, the less attention you attracted the better.

An alley lit up briefly and she paid real close attention. A stray bolt of lightning shot out here and there. But she knew it wasn’t lightning. That was a Quickening, an Immortal just died. And she knew it wasn’t him. What she saw, while impressive in it’s own way, she knew it wasn’t his. For some reason she thought his would be more… earth shaking. After a few minutes a man with dark hair and wearing nothing but black or dark clothing under his trench coat walked out of the alley. He looked around, more than likely to see if anybody was unfortunate enough to see that. Then he walked away. Bekah took out her digital camera and took a quick couple of pictures for the records. Michel Dijkhuizen, everybody said if she was smart she would be very afraid of him. But for some strange reason she couldn’t figure out she wasn’t.

And there was enough stuff in his file to give a person nightmares for the rest of their life. She went into the job fully prepared to hate this person for the duration of the assignment. Then he rescued her, stranger still he knew her name. That freaked her out more than the attempted rape and the massacre that followed. After she calmed down she went into Dijkhuizen history for the past twenty seven years. She didn’t remember meeting or seeing him before. Then again he was somebody you tried to blank out of your memory if you did meet him. Finding nothing in the records she started to search through her father’s files. She knew from personal experience that some Watcher didn’t report everything they saw. Outside of Rob nobody knew Dijkhuizen knew her name, and she swore him to secrecy about it. Her superiors would have pulled her off the assignment before she could even argue for her own safety. Then she would never know how he knew. Unfortunately her Father’s files didn’t say anything either so she was still in the dark.

A couple of day after that she was able to get a spot on the rooftop of a building next to the converted warehouse he was living in. Using a telescopic lens she was able to get a look inside, well a look inside the library or whatever he called it. She saw him come out of a side room. Although it was a quick glimpse inside she could see a couple of swords hanging on the wall, that had to be his trophy room. Bekah had read reports of him taking trophies from Immortals he’s killed. Usually it was a sword, but occasionally he’d take something else like that chair he was currently sitting in. It wasn’t all the time, usually with an Immortal he found interesting or particularly challenging. Dijkhuizen had taken a book from one of the selves a moment prior and started reading it. Bekah got a close up of the book, “What the hell?†He was reading a book of poetry. What freaked her out even more was the fact she had that same book. Although she had a feeling his copy was older than hers. A closer examination of the bookshelves revealed more books on poetry. She was stunned this wasn’t in any reports she read on him. But for some reason it seemed right to her.

To make matters worse the dreams started again. Back when she was a little girl she used to have such vivid dreams. Dreams of another time, another place. In those dreams she was older, everything was wilder, more savage. Yet it felt so right at times it confused her. In those dreams Bekah was drawn to a figure cast in shadows. Everybody was afraid of him, except for her. No she felt nothing but love for him. When she started middle school the dreams slowly faded away. In high school she started dating, but none of them ever lasted more the three dates. The boys she was with didn’t feel ‘right’ somehow. Bekah couldn’t explain it, most of her friends and family said her standards were too high. For a long time she thought they were right, but still she couldn’t find anybody who felt ‘right’ to her.

After she was assigned to watch Dijkhuizen they stared again. This time she put it down to the fact she read too much about him in too short of time and it triggered an old buried memory of the dream. Except now they were even more vivid and she was even closer to the man in the shadows. The dream was so real she could hear the individual conversations in the background, see the birds fly in the air, smell the meat cooking over a pit of fire, feel the cool air against her skin. A couple of times she thought what she was dreaming was real and her real life was the dream. Yeah she needed to see a shrink all right.

Getting out of bed and trying to get the kink out of heck from her neck from the late night car surveillance she headed for her computer. Bekah still had to log in her report from the previous night, and she wanted to check on Dijkhuizen file. Just in case he did something while she was asleep, which was often. Bekah winced as she checked the time on her computer, it was almost noon and she had to be at work in an hour. Munching on a pop tart while she quickly typed her report she saved it to the computer planning to send it in after her shift. Then she saw an addition to his file. “And Rob complains about Harris,†she said to herself.

It wasn’t as bad as she thought it was going to be, part of her was convinced it was going to be about some other poor smuck that was unfortunate enough to run into him. No this was sent in from the younger McAllister’s watcher, Radcliffe. McAllister and Dijkihuizen apparently both discovered the older one and Harris talking to each other. And there was a video file too. She clicked on it and waited for it to load. Her player popping up she saw Harris and the older McAllister soon enough, they were in the middle of the screen. She didn’t see the younger one but her assignment was in the lower corner listening. From the look of things he was far enough away that they didn’t sense him or they were so engross in their conversation they didn’t notice. Out of curiosity Bekah raised the volume to see if she could hear what they were saying. It was faint but she could just make out what they were saying over the slight squeal of the speakers.

“You shouldn’t have involved the Sister!†Harris yelled.

“Quiet boy,†The older one said. “You were the one who one who went behind my back and started talking to that half Irish bastard.â€

“Only because you brought in Big Evil.†Big Evil, that was a new one to her.

“Do you think I would actually fall into one of your petty little games? Or that I would actually bother to sully my hands on a watered down Scotsman?â€

“Seems to me you don’t like to sully your hands on anything,†Harris said walking past him.

“Be careful about what you say Harris. Remember who you’re talking to.â€

Harris stopped. Bekah recognized the look on his face, he sensed Dijkhuizen then he saw him. A smile growing on his face he said, “What are you going to Malcolm?â€. Losing the smile he looked deadly serious as he turned back around, “Set you little humans after me?â€

“What?â€, Bekah was confused.

“I know my stalker would love to get his hands on you,†McAllister said. “But he’s holding off because of some punk in his organization.†Holy ****, he was talking about the Watchers. “But from what I understand they have bigger fish to catch.†With that he walked away.

Harris looked behind him, Bekah could see the smile on his face, “I’m sure they do.†In the lower corner she saw Dijkhuizen contemplate what he just heard and walk off in another direction. Bekah immediately shot an e-mail to Radcliffe, just to see if he got that Watcher reference too. This was big if Malcolm’s Watcher was working with him. She couldn’t wait for a response, she had to get dressed and head for work.

Work was a light one. Not a whole lot of people were coming in. And there was no shipment that day either so the most they could do was go around and put back any books that were misplaced and read a magazine or two. Good thing the main boss was gone today otherwise they couldn’t even do that. “Anything good in the tabloids?†Bekah asked as she went back to the counter.

“Just the usual,†her friend Tammy said. “But I’m digging this necklace she’s wearing.â€

Peeking over her shoulder Bekah saw the necklace in question, it was a plain gold chain but it looked outstanding. “Now that’s a classic look. Simple but elegant.†Then something weird happened. Bekah was wide awake and she was back in her dream. It was getting late in the day and the man cast in shadows was at a river. He was washing something, it was a gold chain. He pulled it out and gave it to her saying something.

“Bek, you ok?â€, Tammy said waving a hand in her face. “Bekah?â€

“What…?â€, she snapped out of it trying to remember where she was. “Yeah Tammy I’m fine.â€

“Why don’t you go get yourself something to drink or something, just to get some air. You look like you need it,†Tammy told her. “We’re super slow today I can hold things down until you get back.â€

“Yeah... thanks,†Bekah said as she headed for the door. “I’ll be back in a moment.†Running into the nearest women’s restroom she splashed some water in her face. What the hell was that? That’s never happened before. She needed something a little stiffer than the drinks they served in the food court right about now. As it was it took a few minutes to get her nerves under control. Heading back to her job she tried to joke about what happened. “I guess that necklace was a bigger stunner than I thought.†Tammy gave a half hearted laugh, yeah she wasn’t feeling it either. Didn’t help matters any that she happened to turn her head and see that book of poetry Dijkhuizen was reading the other night.

That night she started surveillance on Dijkhuizen again. Luckily it was a clear night, she hated doing this in the rain, it made her job that much harder. Which was weird because she usually loved the rain, always had. But something still felt wrong tonight, something she felt before but she wasn’t sure from where, or what. It was like there was something in the air. Where did she feel this before? Deciding to do her surveillance on foot this time around she stayed far enough behind him to keep him in view. And she had her hand wrapped around a can of mace in her pocket just in case. He went around the corner and she quickened her pace a bit so she wouldn’t lose him. But she stopped when she saw a guy across the street. She knew him, he was a fellow Watcher. Bekah thought his name was Steve. He said something on a cellphone then went in the same direction Dijkhuizen went. By the time she hit the corner she saw a couple of more people she knew.

“What in the hell?â€, she muttered as she continued to watch. Dijkhuizen stopped and looked around, almost like he knew something was up. He went into the alley, a few moments later Steve and the others followed him in. She should have called her superiors, let them know what was going on. Instead she followed them in, and hoped she wasn’t going to regret this. When she found them she saw other people she knew surrounding him. For some reason Bekah stomach started to feel queasy.

“Hello abomination,†she recognized Trevor Rader pretty quickly, then she remembered he was Malcolm McAllister’s Watcher, oh God.

“You’re definitely the most well dressed set of thugs I’ve come across,†Dijkhuizen sneered and gauged the situation.

“Oh we are much more than that,†Trevor said as they got a little closer. The immortal drew his red colored sword. A couple of them moved back a step or two. Trevor stayed put not looking impressed. “What’s wrong abomination? Not used to seeing anybody not cower in fear of you before.â€

“Then why are you starting to sweat?â€, Dijkhuizen taunted. Somebody tried to sneak up behind him. The next moment he was down on the ground dead with a huge gash in his chest. Blood starting to pool around the body he turned to face Trevor again. Again she flashed back to her dream, the man cast in shadows was surrounded by a mob, a mob who wanted him dead. Bekah came back to her senses and looked behind her. She was positive somebody was about to capture her from behind but nobody was there. Trevor pulled his hand out of his pocket. A device was in his hand as he pointed it at Dijkhuizen. Two wires shot out and hit him, one in the chest the second somewhere in his coat. Still there was enough juice going through the tazer hook to drop him to his knees.

“No,†Bekah whispered.

“Take his head,†Trevor demanded, “now!†Bekah wanted to rush and stop them but she couldn’t move. Dijkhuizen yelled as the electric charge ran through him again. Still he could drop his sword in such a way that it cut the line in to his chest. That done he grabbed the other wire and pulled it out of his coat. Trevor started to back up this time, fear etching his face. “Get him! Get him!â€

“Raagh!â€, Dijkhuizen swung his sword wildly, Steve was unlucky enough not to move in time and was almost cut in half. The next instant he sliced the head off the other one. Bekah should have been afraid of what she was seeing but she wasn’t. In fact she was smiling and silently cheering him on. Another came at him with an axe in hand. Dijkhuizen swung up and was sprayed with blood. The man held a blody stump while most of his arm and the axe lay on the ground. He kicked another Watcher in the gut before ramming his sword into the axe man’s forehead. Punching another in the face he ducked as somebody else she knew jumped at him. Dijkhuizen grabbed him by the back of the head and smashed his face into the brick wall. A bloody smear followed him as he slid to the ground.

Trevor grabbed a board and came at him. Dijkhuizen batted it away with his sword and kicked him to the ground. He continued to massacre the rest of the Watchers while Trevor crawled away muttered, “Damn it McAllister why did you get him involved?â€

“McAllister?â€, DIjkhuizen said as he pulled his sword out of the last one. He stepped over bodies and body parts as the Watchers lay there dead or dying. Trevor held on to his cross for dear life as he tried to back into the wall. Grabbing Trevor by the collar he hauled him to his feet. Trevor pissed himself as he stared into the eyes of Dijkhuizen. “Malcolm McAllister? He sent you?â€

“Yes,†Trevor nodded readily. “He sent us to kill you. That has to be worth something.†Bekah was stunned, he was working with McAllister.

“It is,†DIjkihuizen said. He let him go. Trevor started to run. He didn’t go far as a red blade ran him through. Getting into his ear Dijkhuizen said. “I’ll make your death quick.†Removing the sword Trevor dropped to the ground. Walking over to another body Dijkhuizen wiped his sword on the body of one of the fallen on the ground then proceeded to pull the tazer hook out of his chest. Then he looked over to Trevor, after a moment he started grinning. She wasn’t sure why but he went back over to Trevor picking him up and throwing him across his shoulder. Bekah hid behind the wall as he looked in her direction. When she looked back he was gone.

It took several hours but she finally found him in an old abandoned factory near his warehouse slash apartment. Admiring Trevor cross in his hand Dijkhuizen leaned against a pillar. She found Trevor’s body lying on the ground. What was he planning on doing? She nearly jumped out of her skin as Trevor breathe in and came back to life. He got to his knees and looked very frightened. He didn’t seem to realize Dijkhuizen was right behind him. He threw the cross to the side and drew his sword out of his coat. Trevor looked behind him and tried to scream but nothing was coming out. A sick grin on his face Dijkhuizen simply said, “There can be only one.†The next instant he took Trevor’s head and started to absorb his Quickening. Bekah found herself smiling, she was actually glad Dijkhuizen survived and taking revenge on the ones who tried to kill him. Why was she smiling at that?

 

[scikaiju]

The music pounded in the background as he continued his work out. The lights above him would hit the blade of his sword in such a way it looked like it was pulsating red every so often. Michel was totally lost in the exercise, on the verge of letting his rage take control. But he kept that in check unless he was in battle. Both his old troop leader and Kronos said that was his biggest strength, knowing when to release it. Getting more intense as he fought his imaginary opponents he eventually slowed his movements. At the end of the exercise he held the sword loosely in his hand as he took in and let out a deep, controlled breath. Finding his center he looked up at an upper window of the former warehouse. The night was still young and there were heads to take.

Cleaning up and getting dressed he put the sword in the hidden sheath in his trench coat and headed for the door. Michel paused at the door, almost a thousand years of instinct told him something was off. He wasn’t sensing another Immortal but something in his gut told him somebody was there. A little more cautiously he opened the door, his right grasping the handle of his sword. He was attacked by a group of humans recently, he would be ready if they tried it again. He hid his surprise when he saw the woman on the other side, it was the woman who looked like his Bekah. Without a word from him she said, “I can give you Malcolm McAllister.â€

Keeping his guard up he asked, “How do you know about McAllister?†His eyes glanced around for any strange shadows that shouldn’t have been there while he waited for the answer.

“The man who lead the group that attacked you, the one whose head you took. He was McAllister’s Watcher,†she said.

“How do you know about that?â€, he asked warily. She held up her right arm and pulled back the sleeve of her jacket, a tattoo of a circle and something that looked like a W adorned her wrist.

“Because I’m one too,†she said. “I’m assigned to watch you.†His first instinct was to pull his sword and make her tell him everything, but his hand wasn’t moving. “We’re only supposed to record and not interfere. You want more proof, the other Watchers know some of us are missing, they just don’t know why. If they found out an Immortal did it they would be on him in an instant. I never told them what happened so you’re safe for now.â€

Stepping in closer he towered over her, “Are you threatening me?â€

“No,†she said while backing off. “I wanted you to give you a chance to get back at the one who sent them after you.â€

“Why do you want to help me?â€

Michel had to give her credit for one thing, she didn’t look like she was afraid of him. On the battlefield he could smell the fear coming off of those he fought. Usually the moment they saw him. This one she was cautious but not afraid. In a way she almost reminded him of… “Rules were broken when they helped McAllister. I want to make sure he doesn’t get another chance at corrupting others into doing his dirty work.â€

“So you’re breaking those same rules I’d imagine by telling me this,†oh this was amusing.

“A necessary evil,†she said. “I’m very familiar with your file. I know you wanted McAllister’s head for a while now. I’m giving you a free shot at him.†Done listening to this crazy woman he pushed his way past her. She followed saying, “How long will it take you to find him on your own? I’ve been watching you, I know you been trying. But he’s always around another Immortal or on holy ground. How long before you catch him off of holy ground and alone? How long before he decides to skip town?â€

Stopping but not turning around he considered what she said. She did have a point, McAllister could be readying to leave now for all he knew. Still not turning around Michel asked, “What do you get out of this? I’ve been around too long to know you don’t offer anything like that and not want something in return.â€

“I just want to know why you saved me,†she answered. “And how in the hell did you know my name?â€

Finally turning around Michel arched an eyebrow as he studied her. This woman’s name was actually Bekah? If he still believed in them he would have said the Gods were having a field day playing with him. But there was a reason why he was still standing there listening to her. “Do you have this information with you?â€

Reaching into her coat she pulled out a thick envelope and handed it to him. “This shows where he spends most of his time. As you can imagine most of his regular haunts are close to holy ground. But you can catch him in a couple of spot where he’d be fair game.†Reading the information inside Michel started to grin slightly. Now he finally had McAllister. “Well, we had a deal. Know how the **** did you know my name?â€

Turning away he started walking. But for some reason he told her, “Because you reminded me of her.â€

“Her?â€, she asked as she started to follow. “Her who?â€

“My Bekah,†he said softly. She stopped in her tracks when she heard that.

Ever since the encounter with his half Irish nephew things haven’t been going like he wanted it to. Harris has been confrontational ever since he decided to use that wench as bait for his nephew. Michel has been strangely absent. Even his stalker disappeared recently, and he could usually find that human when he needed him. And to top it off he had this strangest feeling he was being followed the past couple of days. No things felt like they were turning against him. Malcolm hasn’t felt like this since he ran his own brother out of his village. Too bad there was nobody around in this day and age that he could do the same to.

Malcolm paused slightly as he sensed another Immortal. A chill went down his spin as he heard the sound of metal scrapping against asphalt. Trying to contain his fear he slowly turned around to see Michel coming at him, a sick grin on his face. “There’s nowhere for you to hide now McAllister.â€

“Michel,†he said trying to remain calm. “What a pleasant surprise. I was just thinking about you.â€

“I bet you were.†He rushed him trying to slam his sword on top of his head. Malcolm dove out of the way. Hastily drawing his claymore he blocked the next strike at his head and kicked him away. This was bad, this was very bad. He wasn’t any where near any holy ground and Michel caught him off guard. Even when he knew he was around it generally wasn’t a good thing. “I’ve been waiting for this for decades!†Michel said as he didn’t let up on his attack. “Ever since our first meeting in Prague. You thought you were so clever mocking me from holy ground, trying to get me to attack that bitch you had a problem with. I told you as soon as I was done with her I was coming after you!â€

“Yes you did,†Malcolm grunted as he kicked him away to make some space. Malcolm’s mind raced as he tried to remember where the nearest holy ground was. A church, a cemetery, a Mosque, an Indian burial ground anything. He was drawing a complete blank as Michel kept coming at him. As it was he was barely keeping his sword up from Michel’s barrage. “Is this how you want to do it Michel?â€, he asked as he quickly backed up to get a breather. “Catching me off guard and by surprise?†Michel paused a bit, maybe he was getting through. “You’ve been after my head for a long time, do you really want to sully the moment like this?â€

Looking like he was thinking it over Malcolm began to sweat as he started grinning again, “I don’t really care.†Yelling like a wild beast he came at him again. No, this was not how it was suppose to play out. He wanted Michel weakened, frustrated, preoccupied. Hell he would have been satisfied with somebody else finally beating Michel. But not full bore like this. His only chance was to go on the attack himself and try to catch him off guard. Michel’s smile seemed to grow bigger when he did. Sparks started to fly off their blades as they clashed for all their worth. Malcolm couldn’t help but think that all of those baby Quickenings helped make him stronger than he thought he be. Michel didn’t even look like he was trying that hard.

Finally getting through his defenses Malcolm cut a huge slash across his chest. He didn’t get a chance to feel any sort of victory as Michel swung his sword wildly as he tried not to go down. Trying to turn to avoid it Malcolm didn’t even feel it when it happened. The first indication he had something was wrong was when he thought he heard something plop on the ground. Then he felt something wet growing on his left side as Michel started laughing. Then he felt the pain as he looked down and saw his arm was missing just above the elbow. Going down to a knee Malcolm watched Michel hover over him. In an act of desperation Malcolm plunged his Claymore into Michel’s gut. He stood there looking down at Malcolm, he knew it was over if a miracle didn’t happen.

“What the **** is going on?â€, a police officer came running at them. Michel looked annoyed at the intrusion. Malcolm saw that miracle he was praying for. Taking the momentary distraction he had he grabbed Michel by the shirt and threw him toward the policeman, his claymore ripping into him even more. “What the ****?â€, he exclaimed as he tried not to fall from the added weight. Then he noticed the blood coming from his wound. “Holy ****! Hang on buddy I’ll get you an ambulance.†His hand went as far as the microphone on his chest before Michel grabbed him by the throat.

“You’re not going to need it,†Michel told him as he rammed his sword through him. Letting the officer drop he turned his attention back toward Malcolm. He was gone. “No,†he snarled. The only thing left was his severed arm. Picking that up Michel hurled it against a wall in frustration, “Fuck it no!†He followed the trailed of blood but it was quickly trickling down to nothing. Either McAllister was got smart and was holding the arm up or his Immortal abilities kicked in and were sealing the wound. Arriving at an intersection he saw nobody, he didn’t even sense another Immortal. “MCALLISTER!!!â€, he roared at the heavens. He was not going to be denied this.

Malcolm stumbled through the streets, pushing down anybody in his way, ignoring those who wanted to help him. He took the long way around to his apartment building just to throw Michel off his trail, even if it was momentarily. “Damn it, damn it, damn it,†he muttered over and over. This was not how it was supposed to happen. Michel was supposed to take out his bastard nephew and that’s it. He was supposed to be out of here by now, far away from Michel. But Harris had to play his games and change his plans. He expected it and thought he would be able to contain his meddling. But no Harris still wouldn’t do what he wanted him to. Going behind his back and warning that bastard what was coming, preparing him, making him change his plan even more. Disrespectful little prick.

His building was in sight but he wasn’t going there, no he’d be trapped there if Michel caught up with him. His destination was the parking garage a block away from his building. His car and a small duffel bag of clothes in the trunk, everything he needed to make a fast get away. Fate seemed to be with him as he ran past the empty security station and hit the stairs. He tried to prioritize what he had to do once he left to keep himself calm. First order of business was to get as far away from here as possible. Second find some sort of prosthetic for his now useless arm. It pretty much signaled to any Immortal that he was an easy target. His train of thought was broken when he reached the level his car was one and felt another Immortal close by. No it couldn’t be Michel, not now.

He looked around until he started hear footsteps. A lone figure was coming toward him. And it was almost as bad as if it was Michel. His bastard nephew continued walking until they were a few feet apart before stopping. That half Irish bastard was blocking his path to his car. Malcolm tried to go around him but he kept getting in his way. “Just like your father,†Malcolm spat.

“I’ll take that as a compliment,†Owen told him. Without a word Owen drew his Long Sword. Knowing he couldn’t talk his way out of this Malcolm retrieved his Claymore with his good arm.

“Just like your Father,†Malcolm told him. “Thinking you’re better than those older than you.†Not waiting for his nephew Malcolm went after him. Owen blocked each strike as he backed up. Malcolm looked for any sign of contempt in the younger Immortal’s eyes. He saw nothing but determination. “That was William in a nutshell, always questioning my decisions even when we were boys. He always thought he was better than me.â€

“He wanted you to be better,†Owen shot back going on the offensive. Malcolm tried hard to fall backwards. “He told me how you ran your village, how you used fear and superstition to keep them under your control. He questioned you because he thought you could lead them without that.â€

“You weren’t there!†Malcolm exploded. He took a homerun swing at his head that Owen ducked. Before he came up Malcolm kicked the point of his shoe into his gut. Owen doubled over and tried to get some of the breath back in his body. “You have no idea what it was like!†Malcolm tried to take his head but Owen was able to get his sword up. “William had no idea of the weight on my shoulders. Who was he to question what I did.â€

“He was somebody who looked up to you,†Owen grunted knocking him back.

Michel stormed down the street. It took him a while to calm down after McAllister’s disappearing act but when he did he remember he still had that envelope that woman gave him. In it was McAllister’s current address. He was on his way there when he noticed Harris hanging around an old church. He looked over and waved before returning his attention back toward a multi level parking garage. “Out of my way,†Michel snarled, the sooner he got his hands on McAllister the better.

“He’s not home if that’s where you’re going,†Harris said nonchalantly. “He’s a tad busy at the moment.†Michel started to demand to know what he was rambling about then he heard it. The clashing of swords. He looked up at the garage and started to head for it. “There a challenge going on. The true game is finally afoot as they say. It’s a strange saying though ‘afoot’ wouldn’t you agree?â€, he said examining his own foot. Michel tuned him out as he stood there listening to the sounds of battle, what should have been his battle

Despite his new handicap Malcolm was able to keep up with Owen but just barely. He was able to change his usual fighting strategy just enough so he could use the claymore with just the one hand. For some reason he was comparing the styles of Michel and this half Irish bastard in his head. His nephew was seemingly in more control, more precise in his attack. He could usually beat precise, he just had to unnerve them in some way. It’s why he started to talk about William, just in the hopes it would cause his son to misstep, zag where he wanted to zig. It should have worked but his focus was to strong, even as he argued back about his Father. Dear God he was so much like William it was disgusting. “You probably dreamed about a moment like this,†Malcolm said

“I never knew you were still around until recently,†Owen said blocking another swing at his neck. Maybe if he kept him defending his head he’d leave himself open for a strike elsewhere.

“But you had to do dream about getting revenge for you Father while you were growing up.†Malcolm upped his attack , getting him to back up again. “When he told you how I ran him out of town. Told you stories about how the village turned against him.†His tactic worked and he scored with a slash to his thigh. Seeing an opening he tried to damage him even more for the killing strike. “How he told you how much he hated me.â€

There was something in Owen eyes in that instant that gave him pause. The next moment Owen came at him swinging, his leg still bleeding. Malcolm backed up until he hit a pillar and couldn’t go any further. In the next instant the claymore went flying out of his hand and Owen’s blade was at his neck. Gasping at the sensation of the blade against his neck he looked at the young man’s eyes. He was surprised to see he was tearing up. “He forgave you!â€, he exploded. Malcolm was at a loss for words. “That was who he was, that was what he did. No matter what you did to him no matter how bad you hurt him he’d find a way to forgive you. I sat there and listened to him speak of his village and of you and I saw nothing but love in his eyes. If your head wasn’t stuck up your ass maybe you would have realized that.â€

“So… nephew.†Malcolm said standing very still. “What are you going to do now? You have me at your mercy, but would your Father want you to take revenge?â€

He was quiet for several moments before looking away and saying, “No.†He looked disgusted with himself for speaking it out loud. “He wouldn’t want me to do it. I’ve tried to be like him as much as possible.†Malcolm wanted to relax but was very aware that the long sword was still at his neck. “But there’s just one little thing.â€

“And what… and what might that be?â€, Malcolm gulped.

“There can be only one,†he said coldly. Malcolm eyes went wide as he drew the sword back and swung. It sliced cleanly through his neck and he was no more as his head and body fell to the ground. Owen stepped back a bit and slowly raised his arms and braced himself as the Quickening came to him.

“No,†Michel said. Both he and Harris felt the Quickening happen before it got violent and heard the screaming. “McAllister was mine!†He ran into the parking garage looking for blood. Harris stood there for a moment before lowering his head. That was his mentor after all.

Engines came on and headlight and the lights above him started flashing and exploding as Owen stood there absorbing the Quickening. The pain was unimaginable but as always he endured. The energy seemed to be endless as it poured out of the headless body. His throat felt raw and his voice was horse as he dropped to his knees after it was over. Regaining his senses he felt the buzz and froze. He looked up to see Dijkhuizen run at him. Knowing he was in no shape to take him on now he forced his body to get up and run. Owen heard him get closer as he made his way to the railing leading outside. Getting close he jumped on top of the barricade and launched himself off as Dijkhuizen swung at him. The red sword hit nothing but concrete as he dropped toward the street. Owen landed on top of a passing truck with a thud. He started to slide off so he plunged his sword into the top of the trailer and held on for dear life.

Freeing his sword Michel watched him escape on top of the truck seething with fury. He followed it for a couple of blocks before seeing the younger McAllister, the only McAllister now finally jump off of it. There was no way he could catch up with him now. “Ragh!â€, he took his fury out on the hood of a nearby car, slamming his sword into it again and again. By the time he was done the hood looked like a pile of steel rons. Putting the sword back in it’s sheath he walked over to what was left of Malcolm McAllister and picked up his head by the hair. Looking into McAllister’s dead eyes he started to grin, “It looks like I finally have a reason to hunt down your Nephew.†Dropping the head he headed for the nearest staircase

Back down on the street Harris put his hands behind his head and started walking off. “This game is over and a new one is about to begin,†he said to himself. “Big Evil has taken something from the young one and the young one has taken something from Big Evil. It’s not one of mine so I don’t really care one way or another. But that doesn’t mean I can’t lend a hand. Who knows maybe I can make a particular little bird happy again, or maybe not. Who can say really?â€

 

[scikaiju]

Susan let him use her usual training area to practice when he was hunting his Uncle down since he knew the Father would try to talk him out of it if he went to the church. When he finally cornered and killed him he went back and practiced harder, there was somebody else he had to hunt down. And if Susan was right he might not be coming out of this alive. Still that doesn’t mean he was going to lie down and let Dijkhuizen take his head without a fight. Owen thought he had an idea at how he was going to survive, he just needed to finally pick that damn move up. Fixing a stick to a practice dummy’s hand he stood in position in front of it with his long sword ready. Getting his breath under control he concentrated. He tried to knock the stick of the way. When he did he tried to go for the head, Again he failed in the attempt. “Damn it!â€, he kicked the dummy in frustration. Over two hundred years and he still couldn’t do this stupid strike. How in the hell did Naoto make it look so easy?

Feeling the buzz he froze when he heard unfamiliar footsteps come toward him. Glancing over at the door he saw Harris come toward him with his hands behind his head. “Naoto said he had a hard time teaching that moves to others,†he said. “I picked it up easily enough so I don’t see what the problem is. You even have him in you so there must be something wrong with you.â€

“Go away Harris,†Owen growled. “I’m in no mood for your games.â€

“My game is done,†he said, “finished, finite. It is over and you have won. But you seem to have a few loose ends you need to tie up. Am I one of those loose ends? Because I’ve never been one before it is a rather interesting sensation.â€

Feeling the scar on his neck Owen glared at him, “Just be glad Susan made me promise not to kill you. Yet,†he added.

“Ah the good sister,†he said. “Still looking out for me after all these years.†Owen ignored him and went back to the dummy. After a couple of more failed attempts he smacked the dummy around. “You’re not going to last long that way. I’ve seen Big Evil in action, he eats frustrated people for breakfast.â€

“Why are you still fucking here?!â€, Owen exploded. “You said it yourself your game is over.â€

“I’m trying to make a particular little blue eyed bird happy again,†he said. “Best way to do that is to help you locate Big Evil. I won’t fight him with you there are rules to this thing after all.†Harris held out a piece of paper in his hand. Owen didn’t budge. “Don’t believe me? I am truly and deeply hurt. Perhaps,†he said drawing his cutlass, “you want to try and fight me for it, going another round as it were. En Guard.â€

Owen blocked his initial attack. “I am not in the mood.†But Harris still came at him. He went for a horizontal slash. Owen grabbed his wrist with his left hand and spun keeping Harris’ sword arm behind him. Harris flinched slightly as he felt the edge of the sword against his neck. Owens’ promise to Susan was the only thing staying his hand. Staying in that position for a few moments he started chuckling, “And to think I told Naoto that would never work.â€

“He did have a small obsession with unbeatable moves,†Harris quickly agreed. “Never put much stock in them myself, they always seemed more like a crutch than help.†Owen nodded in agreement. “So now what friend, you have me at your mercy. My life, quite literally, is in your hands.†Keeping his gaze on Harris Owen tapped the handle of his long sword with his thumb. Getting the message Harris slipped the piece of paper with Dijkhuizen’s location under it. “So are we even now?â€

“Not yet.†Owen let go of his wrist but he pulled the length of the sword against his neck, cutting deep. Harris went down to the floor holding the new opening in his body. Owen didn’t cut deep enough to kill him, just enough to scar him. Walking over him he said, “Now we’re even.â€

“Bad formâ€, Harris muttered as the blood seeped through his finger, “seriously bad form.â€

At that same time Michel was practicing with his with his sword in his bedroom, wearing only his pants. Yes Malcolm was gone, but after that initial outburst he wasn’t as mad as he thought he would be. In fact he was enjoying the waiting game a little, this McAllister was a fighter and might be an interesting challenge. Finishing his practice he looked out the window at the setting sun, he was out there somewhere. It was only a matter of time. A groan made him look around. A sheet just covering a leg the woman who shared his Bekah’s name started to stir. He admired her naked form for a moment as she woke. After helping him locate Malcolm she stayed around. Michel didn’t exactly turn her away. “You’re awake, good I’m still in the mood.†Taking his pants off he got back in bed with her.

“No more,†Bekah told him weakly. She tried to get up, “Please I need to rest a little more.†He held her down. His tongue played with her neck as she stopped struggling in. Bekah moaned as he continued to play with her, fondling her. Finally he entered her and in moments she was screaming his name, “MICHEL!â€

Owen went back to his apartment before heading out. As much as he hated to admit it Harris was right, he wouldn’t last long against Dijkhhuizen if he went in there out of control. Remember some of the mediating tips Susan and Naoto taught him he tried to find his center again. After a few hours he was as close as he was going to get and headed out. After a couple of more hours of searching he found his target, an old warehouse. He stopped and turned around when he saw a woman with strawberry blond hair walk out with a huge smile on her face. Making sure she went away and that nobody else was around he went down a side alley to the door. Feeling the buzz before he got there he tried not to tense up. Testing the doorknob he found it was unlocked and pushed it open, ready for any surprise attack. Nobody was on the other side so he cautiously entered. “You saved me the trouble of hunting you down.†Owen looked up to see Dijkhuizen look down at him from some sort of loft. “The stairs are over there,†he pointed out. “Please make yourself at home.â€

“OK,†Owen mutter, a bit confused. Not seeing any other way up there Owen took the stairs, going slower the closer he got to the loft. He found a door leading to an apartment looking area, apparently a living room. Ignoring the Victorian chair and table he glanced briefly at the bookshelves as he passed them, again confused as he saw the mix of the selection. Another open door made Owen reach into his jacket for his sword handle. There he found Dijkhuizen and a whole lot of swords, axes and other weapons of war. “Please do come in,†he said. Owen complied still gripping his sword. “You know I’m not really surprised you hunted me down instead. I saw it in your eyes when I killed that punk. To think I was actually afraid you would be like your Uncle, running and hiding on holy ground.â€

Owen glanced around the room, seeing that damnable red blade of his. He also saw a familiar looking claymore leaning against the side of a chair. Michel saw him look at it, “Ah yes, his claymore. I wanted to add this to my collection for a long time.†He tapped it with his knuckle as he passed heading for a coat rack in the corner holding his trench coat. “I actually went back for it after you got away. But it didn’t feel right putting it up with the others. I didn’t actually earn it. Maybe after I absorb your Quickening I’ll change my mind.†He started putting on these studded gloves he had laying nearby.

“You going somewhere?â€, Owen asked.

“Preparing for battle,†he responded not looking at him. “I was a warrior before I became immortal. My old leader beat into me that a warrior needs to don his armor for any battle.†Slowly he slipped on the trench coat, “My armor might have changed over the centuries but the concept is still the same.†Looking back at the claymore he asked, “Did he ever tell you why he wanted me to kill you?†Owen said nothing, he didn’t ask and really didn’t care. “At first I thought it was because he wanted to be the only immortal McAllister, being the chieftain of his clan made him feel above the rest of them I suppose. Then he found out who you were exactly.†He started chuckling, “I don’t know what your old man did to **** him over but I’ve never seen him that determined to get me to go after anybody.†He walked around the room, getting closer to that red sword of his. “But you didn’t come all the way out here to listen to me. And I don’t want to talk.†Grabbing the sword off the wall he made a move toward Owen.

Owen barley got his sword out in time to block it. Dijkhuizen had him on the defense almost immediately as he continued the block everything being thrown at him. Owen foot hit the wall behind him as he was forced to back up. Michel raised his sword above his head. Owen moved out of the way and he sliced through the wall. Seeing an opening Owen took a swing at him. Dijkhuizen dove out of the way and he got wall as well, his sword getting stuck in an interior stud, “Shit.†Dijkhuizen came at him, Owen kicked him away before pulling his sword free off the wall. Stumbling a bit he quickly regained his footing before going after the older Immortal.

“I wish McAllister had this much fire,†Michel grunted as he blocked the attack after attack. Seeing a hole in his assault he smashed his forearm into the younger McAllister’s face making him back up a bit. Michel reached back and took a sword off the wall, his very first sword. Holding both before him the younger Immortal back up a bit but eventually held his ground. Grinning a bit he said, “You should be honored I wasn’t planning on breaking this one out of retirement.†Then he went after him again swinging wildly. Owen rolled under one swing and ran for the door. He wasn’t going to last long in there while he had both of those in his hands. Stopping in the slightly bigger living room he turned around just in time to see Dijkhuizen run at him. Wishing he had Harris’ speed right now he barely kept one step ahead of blocking those blades coming at him.

The younger Immortal felt something at the back of his foot and couldn’t waste the time to figure out what it was. He fell to the side as Michel brought both swords down. He cut into the Victorian chair with ease. Michel looked at the chair than at him as he scrambled to his feet. Normally he would have been angry that his property was destroyed. Instead his grin grew bigger and charged at him again. Owen tried to keep from thinking that he might die here, it would have been a self fulfilling prophesy at this point. Kicking Dijkhuizen away again he tried to get enough room so he could breath. Michel came at him armed crossed and swinging both swords. He was able to get his sword up to block, finding himself on the opposite end of the cross swords that Victor faced when they fought. Michel pushed him backwards, going into a run. This time Owen did look back and saw they were heading for the picture window in the wall. Freeing a hand he reached out and grabbed him by the coat. He was able to get him to turn so they both crashed through the window.

Both of them hit the ground hard amid a shower of broken glass in the side alley. Owen slowly got to his feet and shook his jacked off, ignoring the burning sensation on his face as cuts healed and pushed out bits of glass still embedded in his skin and the feeling of his ribs knitting themselves together. Dijkhuizen eyes opened and he got to his feet. Letting go of his original sword as his broken arm healed he cracked his neck, popping vertebrae back into place. The tip of his red blade making a groove in the glass he walked to Owen who backed up his sword at the ready. Roaring he charged McAllister slamming the sword down on top of him repeatedly. Owen got his sword up to block each one as he continued to back up. Trying to catch Michel off guard he pressed an attack of his own. The older Immortal looked like he was enjoying his attempt. Realizing Owen was getting over eager he spun out of the way of slash aimed at his gut. Michel swung and a deep cut in his back made Owen recoil in pain, “Uh.†Another slash in his back made his hand open up and drop the sword. A third dropped him to his knees.

“There’s nobody to make me stop now,†Michel grinned as he took aim at his head. Instinct made Owen roll foreword, barely avoiding the blade. Roaring again Michel tried to cut him in Half. Owen rolled out of the way of that one and got to a knee. Seeing his long sword Owen dove for it. His hand reached the handle but Dijkhuizen’s foot was already on the blade. He looked up to see a flash of red coming at him. He quickly backed away, crawling backwards as Dijkhuizen continued to stalk him. “Come on McAllister! Show me what you fucking got!†he taunted him while grinning like a man possessed. Owen got to his feet and tackled him again, or at least he tried to. Michel flung him to the side and again stopped him when he made a move for the long sword. Michel kicked him down and stomped a foot in his chest.

Instead of finishing him off he picked up Owen’ sword and threw it further down the alley. Owen watched it fly out of his reach, dear God not like this. “End of the fucking road McAllister.†Out of desperation he kicked Dijkhuizen in the balls as he came closer. Kicking his foot out again he caught him under the chin making him stagger back. Taking the moment he had he saw Dijkhuizen’s other sword lying on the ground. He ran for it since this was his only chance. Grabbing it on the run he stumbled as he turned around to face Dijkhuizen. The red blade poised above his head and anger in his eyes Owen rolled under the strike and backed up. He tried to ignore how foreign this sword felt in his hands. Pointing the blade behind him and slightly toward the ground he waited for the next attack. It didn’t come as Michel stood there, both hands on the handle he had his sword up and pointed toward the sky

While they stood there it started to rain, a slow drizzle at first that quickly increased into a steady down pour. Michel glanced up at the incoming drops before looking back at the younger McAllister. “It’s going to be a bad day for somebody,†he grunted. Owen tried to get his emotions under control, knowing he was going to lose if he didn’t. Michel silently fumed that he dared touch his sword, but kept the rage in check until it was time to unleash it. They stood there and words from their former mentors came to them.

“Fear is your weapon,†his old leader told him.

“You have to study your opponent while you fight him,†Finlay informed him

“Your enemy will tell you his weakness,†Kronos said.

“Do not rely on just your sight in battle,†Naoto taught him

Michel studied Owen, particularly his hand. His fingers kept flexing around the handle while he tried to find a grip on that sword. He started grinning again. Owen heard the glass crunch under his feet. He got ready, having an idea where the attack was coming from. Michel came at him high, Owen already had the sword in place to block. Sparks started to fly off their blades as they clashed. Both ignored the rain pouring into their eyes. Michel was almost able to knock the sword from his hands but the younger Immortal was keeping a death grip on the handle. Owen tried to get a bead on Dijkhuizen but his style was so wild there was no pattern he could predict he could only react. Both of them kicked at the other at the same time. Both stumbled back. Owen and Michel looked at each other before running toward each other. Both of them swung. Owen momentum forced him to the ground blood flying.

Michel stood there with his sword out mid swing. For a brief second he heard Malcolm say, “What would you do if you knew you were about to die today?†A moment later a red line formed around his neck. His head slowly fell backwards as his body dropped to the ground. As Owen stood up holding the still bleeding gash in his chest and coughed up blood as the Quickening poured out of the headless body. It snaked around in the air, hovering around the younger Immortal. Almost like it was hunting him, stalking him, waiting to pounce on top of him.

A bolt came off of it and knocked him foreword. Another came at him from the front and almost floored him. The Quickening seem to split in two, freezing him in place as it entered him. The energy continued to pour out of the body and swirled around him, seemingly tearing him up on the inside. “AAAAAAARRRRRRRGHHHHHHHHH!†Owen screamed as the pain took him past his limits. The windows around and above him shattered from the energy and rained down upon him. Cuts from the deadly shower healed almost instantly as the Quickening continued to assault him. Bolts of lightning like energy shot off of him creating sparks on the walls. Manhole covers flew into the air as sewer gas exploded and clanged on the ground. When he thought he couldn’t contain all of this anymore it stopped. Owen dropped to his knees totally spent and exhausted.

Inside of him a secondary battle was taking place. Dijkhuizen was fighting to remain on top. For the first time ever Owen thought he would actually lose this one. Then something inside him seemed to grab Dijkhuizen’s Quickening and dragged it down, he fought it all the way. In that brief second Owen blinked as his eyes started to focus around him. He saw Dijkhuizen’s red blade and picked it up. Studying it he grew disgusted at the sight of it and threw it down. Grabbing his jacket he searched for his long sword. But why couldn’t he shake this feeling somebody he knew was nearby?

“Holy ****,†said a young man who’s long brown hair was tied back in a pony tail. Through a set of binocular he watched McAllister from a nearby rooftop. He didn’t notice Bekah beside him look away, trying not to look upset. “I actually thought he was going to rise up in the air there for a moment.â€

“What… what are you talking about Jim?â€, she forced out. She never knew McAllister was there if she didn’t see Radcliffe hanging around. When he told her what was going in she quickly pointed out a spot they could watch. She was still in disbelief.

“Sorry,†he said looking at her. “Back in the eighties Kurgan’s Watcher, I think his name was Horton, described the Quickening Macleod absorbed. He raised up in the air it was so powerful. There actually 8mm footage of it. Horton was convinced the Gathering was ending and recorded it for prosperity. It was quite a sight.â€

“MacLeod?â€, she asked still in disbelief. “Duncan MacLeod?â€

“The older one, Conner. It was quite a sight to see on film. Damn that would have been something to see live.†Radcliffe went back to looking at the alley, recording what he saw in his digital recorder. Bekah knew she should do the same. In fact she had the recorder in her hand. But she couldn’t say anything, she couldn’t believe that he lost. That fucking bastard killed him.

~a few days later~

Rob tried not to get nervous as he watched Harris come toward him with two beers in his hand. It was almost becoming a common thing lately. More than likely they like to hit the same bars. Sitting them down Harris said, “Hello again my friend.†Rob tried not to stare at the scar on his neck, although it might be interesting to hear how he would explain that one. “I’m afraid this might be our last meeting. For I am leaving soon as the wind is calling my name.â€

Rob tried not to flinch as he took a drink, well the rest was nice while it lasted. “Well if you got to go you got to go. Do you have any idea where you’re going?†Hey it was worth a shot.

“I never know until I get there.†After a couple of more drinks Rob noticed Harris wasn’t exactly drinking any of his beer. Why were things getting fuzzy and why was he so dizzy suddenly? Harris just smiled at him, “I am truly sorry friend but I hate being watched.â€

Realizing he was just drugged Rob got out, “You son of a…†before the darkness took him. Harris caught his head and gently laid it down on the table.

“Can’t have you banging your head now can we? And I do hope you had the decency to look away while I had some fun with the old in and out with the ladies I’ve come across. That would just be rude.†Getting a waitress’s attention he slipped her a hundred dollar bill, “Please make sure nobody disturbs my friend here. He should be up in the next couple of hours.â€

Outside the bar he walked around until he found Ser. “Now will you tell me why I had to drug that woman?â€

“All in due time my dear,†he said guiding her down the street. “It is a rather remarkable story if I do say so myself. But not one for the open. I trust you are all packed and ready to go?†The buzz stopped them, they both looked around until they saw Susan coming toward them. “Sister, come to see us off? How nice of you.â€

“Are you sure about this Ser?â€, she asked. “I understand about wanting to leave but with Scott?â€

“He was right, this place does seem different to me now,†she explained. “And I’m very aware that a pre Quickening Immortal sticks out like a sore thumb and I’m not sure how many decent guys who won’t take advantage of my inexperience I’m going to come across. Scott volunteered to accompany me for a while, at least until I get the hang of it. I would have asked you but you’re needed here.â€

“I would have gone with you Ser,†Susan told her. “You are my student after all.â€

“But you got people who need you here,†she repeated. “You taught me a lot but even you said I have to try and learn from somebody else eventually.â€

“Yes I did,†she agreed sadly. She looked at Scott for a moment, “Ser can we have a moment alone?†She said they could and walked off a bit. “Scott I’m only going to tell you this once.â€

“I know exactly what you’re going to say,†he said. “I will be the perfect gentleman you always tried to get me to be. But if she gets her own ideas than I won’t stop her. It would just be rude after all.â€

“I’m sure you will,†she said. Than Susan eyes changed slightly, into something dangerous, something she only showed to those she fought in battle, “But if I ever get a call saying you got bored with her and left her stranded in the middle of nowhere. You better pray somebody takes your head before I find you.â€

Harris gulped, “Of course Sister.†Quickly heading over to Serenity he hurried her down the street. “Come Serenity, there’s a world to see and people to meet. Maybe a game or two to play down the road.†Ser went off on him about those games but Scott continued to walk her down the street

Susan watched them a bit before turning away. Smiling to herself she said, “I still got it.â€

~Two months later~

Owen sat in the airport waiting for his flight to be called. He should have been out here a month ago, but every time there seemed to be more and more paper work to get some kind of permission to travel with a sword. He had no problem with the modern world, but times like this he really missed the simpler days of travel. He was out of his lease, most of his possessions were in storage and outside of this carryon bag most of his luggage should be loading right about now. All he had to do was wait. “Did you think you could leave without saying goodbye?†He looked up and saw the Father standing in front of him.

“Sorry Father,†he said as he sat next to him. “I haven’t really been myself lately.â€

“We’ve noticed,†he said. “You know you can talk to me about anything Owen. I like to think you value our friendship as much as I do.â€

“I know Father, and I do. More than you realize. But I’m trying to find myself again, I need to do that alone.†Owen was quiet while the other man took that in. “I know it sounds strange but it’s something I have to do.â€

“I understand better than you think,†Father Andrews said with a smile. “I’ve done a little soul searching of my own from time to time. So do you have an idea where you’re going to start looking?â€

“I figured I start with a promise I’ve been meaning to keep for the last three hundred years.†When the other man looked confused he answered, “I’m going home.â€

“Sounds like a good start,†he smiled. “I hope it a sort search.â€

“It rarely is.â€

Over the PA system a woman announced, “Flight 227 to Glasgow, Scotland is now boarding at gate twenty seven.â€

“That’s my flight,†Owen said as he grabbed his bag and got up.

“You told me you were born in Ireland,†The father said getting up as well.

“I got to make a stop first. I’ll explain later.†Owen pulled the Father into a hug, “I’ll be in touch Father. Take care of yourself.â€

“And you as well. What’s that saying you Immortals say? Watch your back or neck I think.â€

Smiling he said, “Something like that.†Owen headed for his flight. Three hundred plus years and he still hated saying goodbye to people. Looking for his terminal somebody ran into him, “Careful there.†He realized after a moment it was a woman.

“I’m sorry,†she said. Owen looked at her, a wisp of strawberry blond hair was just hanging underneath her hat. She started smiling at him, “Oh my God how are you doing? It’s been forever.â€

“I’m sorry do I know you?†Owen searched his memory, he couldn’t place this woman to save his life.

Losing the smile, in fact she started to look kind of sad, she said, “I’m sorry. I must have you confused with somebody else.â€

“It happens to me all the time.†Owen heard the flight announcement again and excused himself. Why couldn’t he shake this feeling he’d seen her before?

Behind him the woman sad face changed to one of determination and followed him. They were in a mostly deserted part of the airport. She could shot him and cut off his head before anybody could stop her. Reaching into her coat she pulled a revolver out of her waistband, hurrying up to get closer. The less time the few people that were there had to react the better. Somebody got in her way. She recognized him almost immediately, grunting, “Get out of my way Rob.â€

“I can’t let you do it Bekah,†he said. She looked over his shoulder. McAllister was getting further and further away. She went to pull her gun but Rob stopped her.

“He has to die,†she said anger flashing tin her eyes. “He killed Michel, my Michel and he has to die. Why don’t you understand that?â€

“It’s what they do Bekah, until there only one of them left.†He looked behind her and nodded. She looked around and saw more Watchers standing around them. “I’m sorry Bekah, but I told them what you told me.â€

“You fucking bastard,†she went to shot him but they quickly got it away from her. Rob looked sad as she cursed at him. “I am never going to forgive you for this!†They tried to detain her but she fought back. Somebody had to jam a needle in her neck and inject her with something to get her to calm down. They took her out of there without any more fuss. Rob knew he did the right thing, it still didn’t stop him from feeling like **** though.

An older man came up to him saying, “Thanks for letting us know Rob. I still don’t know what happened but at least it explains why she was stalking McAllister for the past couple of months. Hopefully we can help her, but I don’t think she’s going to be watching anybody ever again.â€

“Just trying to help out a friend,†He said. “So when am I getting reassigned? After I lost Harris I was told I was taken off of him.â€

“We thought you needed a rest,†he said. A little reluctantly he added, “And I’m afraid to say you’re under investigation too.†Rob didn’t say anything, although he had a feeling why. And it wasn’t because of Harris. He went on, “After they found out what Trevor was up to they started looking at his associates. Peter was listed as one of them, and he brought you in. Both of them requested that you be pushed forward into field duty so that didn’t look good. It’s just a precaution, I’m sure nothing will come of it.â€

“Maybe I should just turn myself in because it true.â€

The other man looked at him, realizing he wasn’t joking, “Rob I have to report this. Do you have any idea what they’re going to do to you?â€

“I got an idea.â€

“Fuck. Maybe they’ll be a little lenient because you turned yourself in willingly. But why would you do that?â€

“Because I was a newer member of the group, and I realize I don’t really believe in what he was saying, not anymore.†The older man nodded and guided Rob to the others.

As he walked around a small town on the coast of Scotland in the early morning Owen was lost in memories. When he was younger his Father would paint such a vivid picture in his mind at how his village used to look like Owen would have sworn he was there. Roughly a year before Finlay made him leave he visited his Father’s village once and it was exactly how he described it. A few of the older folks thought he was him at first. That was the first time he had ever used a fake name to introduce himself. Now three centuries later the village had grown a bit but he still pictured his Father’s village in his mind. Greeting anybody he passed as he made his way to the cemetery, he was grateful it was still were it was suppose to be.

Entering he immediately headed to the back where the older tombstones were. Studying the dates he found were roughly his Father would have been if they never listened to his Uncle. Looking around to make sure he was alone he opened his coat and reached into the other side, pulling out a claymore. He looked at it for a moment or two before saying, “It’s more than you deserve.†Without a second thought he plunged it into the ground and left.

He didn’t go far before he felt the buzz. His heart caught in his throat as he saw who was coming toward him. Natalya asked, “So, is that like a guy thing or something?â€

“It’s what Dad would have wanted,†he answered softly. There was an uncomfortable silence before he was saying, “How did you…?â€

“Father Andrews told Susan where you were going,†she answered. “I put two and two together.â€

Again there was an awkward silence. “Is this were you tell me we need to talk?â€

“I hope not,†she said. “Damn it Owen. Do you have any idea how much that hurt when you said it? It hurt worse because I knew why you were saying it.†He couldn’t look at her. “I thought I meant more to you than that. I thought you trusted me enough to help you through it.â€

“I don’t think you know how much you actually mean to me,†he told her. “But it’s hard to admit it when I know there’s a chance that I might have to kill you.â€

“You don’t think I know that?â€, she snapped. “I love you Owen McAllister, but I’m wondering why I’m even wasting my time with you.†He deserved that one, no doubt about it. “Hell, I arrived here yesterday trying to see if I can understand what’s going on in that head of yours.â€

“My last name might be McAllister,†he said his old brogue slipping through, “but I’m a son of Scotland and Ireland. If you want to understand me lass you’re going to have to see both.â€

He looked over at her, she was still mad at him he could tell that much, but there was a small smile on her lips. Coming closer she said, “Well then, if you want to understand me you’re going to have to see France and Russia as I’m a child of both as well.â€

Smiling a e said, “I do love you Natalya. Hopefully you’ll eventually forgive me for being an idiot, but I’ll understand if you don’t.â€

“I love you too much not to,†she told him. “Owen I want to be with you, not like how we were before, in and out of each other’s lives. But after we blew up when we tried living together I don’t know how it’ll work.â€

“We’ll think of something.â€

“Then let’s promise not to fight each other,†she told him. “I mean we’ll still going to argue, nothing going to stop that, but we won’t fight each other.â€

“It’s not that simple.â€

“Yes it is that simple,†she informed him. “We’ll worry about it if we’re the last two. But if that’s one of the biggest blocks in our way let’s get rid of it. Promise me we won’t fight.â€

“I promise I won’t fight you if you don’t fight me.†His hand reached out for hers. Their fingers lightly grazed each other before starting to intertwine. They stopped when they felt another Immortal. “We’re a little busy if you don’t mind,†he told the intruder.

“Not my problem,†he said pulling out a sword. “And the name is Roger Mulligan.â€

“You want me to take this one?â€, Natalya asked, both of them realizing he wasn’t going to leave until he fought one of them.

“No I got it.†They walked off of holy ground while Natalya watched. Drawing his long sword he said, “Owen McAllister.†Mulligan bowed a bit. Both of their swords at the ready they clashed. Because after all in the end there can be only one.