Sparks flew as steel clashed against steel. Ceirdwyn was tiring. Never before had she faced such a challenger. He was fierce and he didn't exactly fight fair. It used up all her endurance to fight off his backhanded tricks. The feral grin on his face undid some of her confidence. He'd paced her for hours, teased her with his Quickening, as if he knew he'd finally have her in this position.
Resolutely, Ceirdwyn refused to acknowledge as he scored another cut along her arm. She was weakening from the blood loss. Her vision was blurring. She drew from the well deep inside her, knowing if she didn't find strength from somewhere, she would be dead. She wasn't ready to die.
Suddenly, Ceirdwyn's legs grew weak, causing her to slip. She cursed under her breath. She'd left him an opening and knew he wouldn't pass it up. It was her last thought as she felt the edge of the sword touch her neck and then her world went black.
Duncan stretched languidly in the bed. He hadn't been sleeping well lately, but tonight had been different. There was a new possibility in his life. He'd met the most interesting woman at Joe's last night. The prospect had allowed him to find the sleep that had so easily alluded him.
He gazed out the window. It was early, but he thought about just rolling over and indulging in a good old fashioned funk when the phone rang. Duncan cursed softly in Gaelic before answering the phone. "MacLeod," he growled.
Joe's weary voice spoke up, "Sorry to bother you, Mac. I know it's early and all."
Duncan sighed. "It's okay, Joe. What's up?"
"I have some bad news," Joe's voice sounded weary.
The smile immediately left Duncan's face and he sat up. "Go ahead, Joe. What is it?"
"Ceirdwyn is dead," Joe said, realizing there was no easy way to tell Duncan that a friend was dead.
Duncan lowered his head and choked back a cry. Ceirdwyn. Strong, loyal, and lovely Ceirdwyn. She had always been there for him when he needed support. She'd helped him to come to terms with the avenger in himself. A lesson he'd been happy to remind her of many years later. Now, she was dead. Duncan flinched. "Who?" he asked Joe.
Joe breathed deeply and said, "It appears to be the same immortal who took Annie as well as the other four women. We still don't have an i.d. on him."
Duncan pinched his nose to hold back the tears. He'd just dealt with Annie's death, come to terms with it so to speak. It was just too terrible to lose Annie and now Ceirdwyn. "Joe, I gotta go. I'll call you later," he said as he hung up the phone.
He felt the presence of another immortal. He was almost positive it was Methos, and at this moment, he didn't care if it were an enemy. He didn't move with the grate came up, just sat there and stared at the floor.
Joe had called Methos before calling MacLeod. The mortal knew that Duncan would start to brood. But still, the first question that came out of his mouth was "What's wrong?"
In one quick move, Duncan turned and gazed intently at Methos. He felt like his world was crumbling around him. He was failing his clan. Very sadly, he said, "Ceirdwyn is dead."
Methos nodded in understanding. Duncan held all his friends dear. Losing one played havoc on his guilt complex. Two could push him over the edge. Something was going on here. He just didn't know what it was. What the pattern was. Methos wasn't one to play crusader, but it appeared that this killer was taking out the female immortals that Mac knew, one of which was his wife. His stake in this was personal now, and Jade always brought out the protector in him. "Tell me what you know," Methos said. If he could give Duncan some direction, maybe he could avoid the brood.
Duncan choked back a sob. "Joe says it's the same immortal who took out Annie and the other four women."
"A hunter?" Methos asked.
"More than likely," Duncan said as he watched the wheels of Methos' mind go to work. It never failed to amaze him how intelligent and clever Methos was. Right now, Methos was forming scenarios and making plans. If anyone could figure out what was happening, it would be Methos. Duncan was sure of it.
"A hunter whose decided to take out female immortals," Methos added, hoping Mac would make the same connections. Apparently, no female immortal was safe.
Duncan's face fell briefly before it dawned with purpose. He jumped from the bed and quickly put on his sweats. "Oh gods, Methos. I have to call Amanda. Not to mention Claudia, Michelle..."
Methos raised his hand to quiet the big Scot. "First, you need to get yourself under control." Methos knew that Duncan would be of no use to anyone in his current state. All his decisions would be motivated by his emotions and not by his common sense. Methos knew that he would have to be the levelheaded one.
Mac's mind suddenly went into overdrive. Panic took over his voice, as he couldn't believe Methos had missed this tidbit of information. "What about Jade?"
Methos stopped momentarily. He, too, was deeply concerned about her. She was the most important person in Methos' life. But, he had to remain objective. Schooling his features, Methos said, "I thought about her already."
"And..." Duncan couldn't understand Methos' apparent indifference. He loved Jade. How could he be so calm?!
"She's okay for now. No one but you and I know where she is. Besides, she can take care of herself. If this hunter comes after her, it will be the last thing he does."
"You sure?" Duncan asked, gathering strength from the conviction in Methos' words.
"I'm positive." Methos fixed Mac with that look that so clearly said there was no doubt in his mind.
"Well, I need to make some calls. I definitely have to get to Claudia. She's defenseless against him."
"What are you going to say to her?" Methos was trying to get Mac to stop and think instead of acting on impulse. There was absolutely no way Mac could bully any of the women into doing as he desired. Applying his sexuality might work, but he couldn't use that over the phone. The eldest man had to make sure Mac had a realistic plan.
"I'll find her and bring her back here." At Methos' shaking head, Duncan said, "What?!"
"That's not a good idea."
"Methos, I don't have time for puzzles. Tell me what you're thinking or let me do what I must." Duncan's patience was wearing thin. He was afraid he'd end up yelling at Methos if he didn't get into action soon.
"First of all, Claudia will not come here simply because you ask her to. She's on tour. She has obligations..."
"She has an obligation to stay alive!" Duncan fairly shouted.
Methos reigned in his temper. He would get nowhere with the extremely stubborn man if he engaged him in a shouting match. "Will you let me finish?"
Duncan fell to the couch. His reply was a silent acquiescence.
Methos went and sat next to him. Calmly, he said, "If you go barging in there, she will fight you. And where will that get you?"
"Nowhere," Duncan whispered, unwillingly admitting that Methos was right.
The Highlander's body was shaking with emotion. Methos noticed it and went to get his friend a beer. In his own nonchalant manned he said, "Listen, we need to decide what course of action to take."
"What do you suggest? I have a feeling you already have an idea." Duncan had calmed considerably. His immediate need for action, as well as his fear, had curtailed somewhat by the strong presence of stability Methos was offering.
"I think you should call in a favor. Send someone you trust implicitly to be her guardian. She'll hate it, but she will agree to that before she'll leave her tour to hide out here."
Duncan managed to laugh. "I am not sending you to protect Claudia. No."
Methos stifled a chuckle. "I was thinking more along the lines of your kinsman."
"Connor?" Duncan asked, surprised.
"Do you have another kinsman who I don't know about?" Methos smirked.
"No, but why him?" Duncan asked, confused as to Methos' line of thought.
Methos did smile at that. "Because he's even more stubborn and obstinate than you, that's why. Who better to take on Claudia Jardine than Connor MacLeod?"
Mac smiled in return. He had to agree. "If they don't end up killing each other first," Duncan said between laughs.
Methos laughed in return. "Wouldn't you love to be a fly on that wall?!"
"No!" Mac said as he picked up the phone to call his cousin.
"No way in hell, Duncan. You hear me. No way," Connor's voice left little room for discussion.
One stubborn Scot was now pitted against another stubborn Scot. "What is your problem?"
"My problem! Let me see..." Connor let silence prevail for a few moments before he continued, "I have no intention of putting my head on the line for a snobby, bratty immortal who refuses to pick up a sword and defend herself."
"Connor, I don't want her to die. I know how she can be. Believe me, I understand your feelings. But, I need your help. She means a lot to me."
"Dammit!" Connor shouted. "How dare you play on my fucking sense of loyalty?! I'll tell you something, Duncan. If I lose my head protecting this little brat, I will be extremely pissed at you. Understand?"
"Thanks, Connor." Duncan smiled in triumph.
"Fuck you," Connor said and hung up the phone. His tone was nowhere near as harsh as the words demanded.
"Well," Methos asked, "What did he say?"
"He'll do it," Mac informed. He began to dial the next number.
"Who are you calling now?" Methos asked thinking they had decided to keep Claudia in the dark about her coming protector.
"I'm calling Amanda and telling her to meet us here."
Methos thought quickly. "No," he said, "have her meet us at the barge." A plan was quickly forming in his mind.
"Why?" Duncan asked.
"Lots of reasons I don't want to go into right now. Just tell her."
Mac shrugged and easily let the elder immortal take charge. "Hello, Amanda..." Mac said.
While Mac was convincing Amanda to meet them in Paris, Methos was devising a plan. If it were to work, though, he'd have to get Jade to meet them in Paris. He knew she would be next to impossible to convince, but it just might work. Claudia's tour was scheduled to come to Paris next week. If they could get a high concentration of female immortals in one place, then let that information slip; maybe they could tempt the killer to come out of hiding and try for one of them, preferably Jade since she was the best fighter. It could work.
After Mac finished talking to Amanda, he hung up the phone and looked down at the bags Methos had placed by the elevator. "I'll call and make flight reservations."
Methos nodded. "We're going to Durango, Colorado."
Mac looked confused. "I thought we were going to Paris."
"We are. But, Jade is in Colorado with Richie. We're going to get her first. Book us two seats to Colorado and four to Paris."
Mac shook his head. "She will never go for it, Methos." Duncan knew that as well as Methos should have. There was no way that she would allow Methos or even Duncan to become her protector. Besides, Duncan knew from experience that Jade didn't really need protection.
"Never underestimate me," Methos said.
Six hours later, Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod found himself playing referee between the two eldest immortals. He was sure that somewhere in their past this kind of arguing was construed as foreplay. They were simply too good at it. Mac looked over at Richie who could only shrug in confusion.
"Listen, Methos. There is no way I'm going to run off and hide away so you and Duncan can play knights in shining armor. It's not going to happen. I may not like to fight, but I will not let it dictate my life. Let the man come after me, and I will take care of him myself. I definitely do not need a babysitter."
"You're being ridiculous..."
"What?!" Jade couldn't believe this. And to think, she'd actually been happy to see Methos after all these months. "I'm being ridiculous."
"I just came here to talk to you," Methos pleaded, trying desperately to get her to understand. She could be just as stubborn as the Scot.
"You came here to strong-arm me into playing damsel in distress!"
What was it about this woman that infuriated him so much? She was being totally unreasonable. "I have a plan," Methos tried to explain.
"You always have a plan..."
"Hold on," Duncan interrupted. He took Jade by the arm and led her away from Methos. Obviously, Methos had not taken his own advice. Methos was doing to Jade exactly what Duncan would have done to Claudia. Splitting up the two may be the only way to get either to calm down. "Methos, you and Richie go get Richie packed."
"I can handle this," Methos said through clenched teeth.
Duncan turned on his full chieftain mode. "I said go help Richie." Without waiting for a reply, he grabbed Jade's arm and pulled her outside the cabin. "Now, as for you, listen to me." When she started to speak, Duncan leveled her with a glare that was deadly. She swallowed any retort immediately. "He's worried about you. He won't admit it, not to anyone. But, he's worried. He's devised a plan that may get us all out of this with our heads attached, but he needs you to help. Now, you will come with us even if I have to bind you. Understand?"
The sting of his words was lessened by the smile in his eyes. Still, Jade knew Duncan was serious. "Well, why didn't he just tell me that in the first place?"
Duncan raised his arms in exasperation and let them fall to his sides. Dealing with the two most ancient immortals had thoroughly worn him out.
It wasn't until the plane was over the ocean and heading for Paris that Methos willingly shared his plan with his wife. He was still a little wounded that Duncan had been the one to get Jade to come along. When had he lost the ability to get Jade to follow his plans? Methos sighed and said, "We wanted to get everyone in one central location. Somewhere where this immortal could not resist the temptation."
"Why Paris, though? I hate Paris," Jade whined.
Methos rolled his eyes knowing she was just antagonizing him. Once Jade reconciled herself to the idea of going to Paris, she'd accepted her fate. He knew the protests were only to save face. "Because Claudia's tour will hit Paris next week, and Robert has taken Gina to holy ground in Paris."
"Michelle is on her way to the barge. She and Amanda should get there before we do," Duncan added.
"That's five female immortals, three relatively old ones, in a concentrated area," Jade said. "You're right, Methos. This man won't be able to resist..." Jade had to admit that she was impressed with the plan. However, there were a few things that Methos had missed. It would piss him off when she pointed them out, but nevertheless it had to be done.
"Thanks," Methos said rather full of himself.
"I wasn't finished," Jade said and smiled. "There's one flaw."
"What?" Methos asked, perplexed.
"There are a huge number of extremely skilled bodyguards protecting the bait." To Jade, it was obvious. To these men who protected women as part of their nature, it wasn't so obvious, which is why she felt it her duty to point out the obvious.
Duncan had to admit that they hadn't thought of that.
"I know that, Jade," Methos said. He smiled broadly when he saw that Jade realized that he had indeed thought of everything.
"What?" Duncan asked, shocked. Apparently, there was more to this plan than Methos had told him. Obviously, the rest of the plan was something that Duncan wouldn't like.
"Well, I was gonna tell you the rest," Methos started.
"When?" Duncan asked, suddenly angry that Methos would leave him intentionally in the dark.
Methos looked at Duncan and smiled wickedly. "When we got everyone squared away at the barge."
"I think you should tell us now," Jade said. She could feel the controlled anger emanating from MacLeod and wanted to stave off a major confrontation between the two men, especially on the small plane.
"Alright," Methos said, "I thought we could use you to lure him out. That maybe you and I could isolate ourselves from the main group. Make you an easy target."
"No way," Richie and Duncan said at the same time.
"You are not putting Jade at risk," Richie said.
Jade's look silenced Richie. It was her life, and Richie had no right to tell her what she would do with it.
"You are not going to put your lives at risk, Methos," Duncan said.
Jade shook her head. "It's a good idea in theory, Methos, but I'm not sure it will work."
"Why not?" Methos asked. He was more than a little disturbed by everyone's reluctance to agree with him. Richie, he could understand. The boy was motivated by his hormones, but Jade was his wife and only one had he failed to keep her safe. Of course that once had meant her first death. But still. He looked at them for several more moments. At last, though, he was forced to believe that Jade was right. The killer would not go after someone who had even one bodyguard. "You're right."
"I should do this alone," Jade said with determination.
"No way in HELL!" Richie and Duncan shouted again simultaneously.
Ignoring their outburst, Methos said, "I agree with you, Jade. But I can't, won't, let you go unwatched. I wouldn't be able to live with myself." Regardless of the outburst from the other two men, when Methos gave his unwilling consent, the plan was set.
Knowing he couldn't argue with both of them and win, Duncan reluctantly decided to go with the plan. "Then what do we do?" he asked thoroughly hating this plan.
"We watch," Methos said.
The rest of the flight was made in complete silence. Each person was left alone with his or her own thoughts. Despite his anger, Richie happily allowed Jade the use of his shoulder as a pillow. She snuggled up next to him and dosed contentedly.
As they entered the barge, the signature of another immortal met them. Duncan silently wondered who wasn't there. Not wanting to think about whom he would rather have be the one on the barge, he opened the door and saw Amanda sitting in front of the fireplace. Tears glistened in her eyes. He was relieved even as he was saddened by what he had to ask. "Where's Michelle?" he asked, terrified that he already knew the answer.
"Joe called right after I arrived. She's dead, Mac. The son of a bitch already got her." The tears flowed down her cheeks as she relayed the news of her former student's demise.
Duncan dropped the bags and quickly crossed the barge to comfort her. He went to her and embraced her sharing her pain.
Allowing the two to share their grief, Methos sprang into action. "Richie, let's go down to the store and get some supplies." They needed to get things in order. This man was good. At this rate, he would take out many more before this was all over.
"Sure," Richie said needing to get out. The situation was too intense, and he needed some air.
Jade followed them out and stood on deck. "Who was Michelle?" She admitted to herself that she was slightly out of the 'Duncan MacLeod' loop, but apparently, the girl was important to the two immortals left inside the barge.
"The daughter of one of Mac's friends. She was also Amanda's student," Methos informed her as they walked down the plank. He'd never met the girl himself. But, Mac had talked about her often and fondly.
Jade watched them go. She was certain things were going to get worse before they got better. The hunter was close. She could feel it in her Quickening. She would have to do something soon, and the fewer people who knew about it, the better. Methos would certainly never go for it. But, she'd be damned if she let this hunter cause Mac any more pain.
A few minutes later, Duncan joined her on deck. "Amanda's asleep on the couch," he said as he leaned on the wall next to Jade.
"She okay?" Jade asked.
"Yeah, Amanda is very protective of her students. Michelle was very special to her."
Jade touched his arm. "And to you too," she said. She realized then just how much Duncan felt for those in his clan. They would have their hands full in trying to keep Duncan calm through all this.
Duncan turned to her suddenly and embraced her. Tears flowed freely down his cheeks. He needed some support right now. He needed to release some pent up sorrow. Jade exuded comfort and warmth. He took advantage of it. "I don't know how much more I can take. First, Annie then Ceirdwyn. Now, Michelle. It's too much."
Jade said nothing, simply held him. What could she say? She understood where he was coming from. The pain of all the loss was overwhelming. She'd been there several times herself. "We'll get him, Duncan. He will pay."
"I want him," Duncan growled as he pulled away and fiercely dried his face. "That bastard is dead."
Jade tucked a stray piece of hair behind his ear. She was coming to care greatly for the Scot. He was tender and caring, yet hard as nails when the situation demanded it. He reminded her of another Scot she knew. She mentally shook herself. She definitely didn't want thoughts of him to get in her way right now. She needed to focus on what was going to happen, not on what had happened in the past.
They turned at the feel of two immortals approaching.
"How's Amanda?" Methos asked. He smiled inwardly to see the two of them getting along so well. He had wondered about them the first time they met. Afraid that old feelings and new jealousies would cause tension between the three of them. Watching the two of them on the deck of the barge, Methos knew the two had found a common ground, something they could share. They both took it personally when a member of their clan was threatened. Both were fierce protectors.
"She is still pretty upset over Michelle. She's blaming herself, of course. I tried to tell her it wasn't her fault, but I don't know. She's sleeping now," Duncan said.
"I'll bet she took the couch, didn't she?" Richie complained.
"Relax, Rich. You can have the chair," Jade offered. She knew Richie was affected by the entire situation, just as affected as the others. His complaints about the couch were a cover for his true emotions. She used humor to help him work through it.
"Great," Richie said, wishing she'd offer to let him share the other couch with her. He knew he would feel better if he could just hold her. That was really all that he'd wanted for the past four months.
Somewhere around midnight, they finally turned in for the night. Duncan lifted Amanda and placed her on the bed with him. Methos took one couch, while Jade took the couch opposite him. Richie stretched out in the chair, resting his feet on the footstool.
Duncan quickly made sure that everyone had plenty of blankets and was comfortable before going to the bed and joining Amanda. He spooned behind her. He needed to hold her close, to know that at least she was safe. He could feel the presence of the others and gained still more comfort from that.
Sitting up, Duncan regretfully moved back to the sofa. He'd forgotten to tell Methos something important. Sitting on the table, he said, "Connor and Claudia will be here on Sunday."
Jade's keen sense of hearing picked up on the conversation. At the mention of Connor's name, Jade held her breath. Pain filled her heart at Duncan's words. Connor was coming here. She inhaled deeply. The tightness in her chest became excruciating. What could she do? She could not deal with him at the moment. Or more precisely, she couldn't deal with the emotions his presence evoked in her.
Turning to face Duncan, Methos asked, "What's Connor's perspective on all this?"
Duncan chuckled, "He hates me for sending him to Claudia. She's driving him insane. When I talked to him this morning, he was ready to run her through with his sword just so he could have a few moments of peace." His voice rose as the humor of Connor's misery became too funny.
"Shh, Mac. You'll wake the sleeping beauties," Methos chuckled softly, knowing that the others weren't exactly asleep yet, but wanting to keep their conversation from hindering their sleep. "You know, I'm really surprised he hasn't done that already. Or at least left her to defend herself. Connor's patience only stretches so far. He's a little quicker to anger than you are."
"That's true." Connor's patience had definitely hit its limit. When he arrived with Claudia on Sunday, Duncan promised he'd relieve Connor of his charge.
Jade listened to the entire exchange. She smiled to herself. It sounded like Connor hadn't changed much since the last time they'd been together. Gods, she missed him. She prayed silently to any god that was listening to let her make things right again with him. She rolled over and looked at Richie who was still trying to get comfortable in the chair. What would happen with him when Connor came back into her life? What would happen between her and Connor? So many questions came to her mind. The past several months had been an experience for her. Richie had such a flare for life. He had a wide-eyed innocence that she had lost thousands of years ago. Methos was right. Richie had given her back the desire to live. And it was obvious to her that he loved her. So, what was her problem? Why couldn't she love him in return? The answer came to her quickly-Connor MacLeod. She still loved him. And, now, he was on his way back to Paris.
Vancouver, 1954'I am Connor MacLeod,' the deep voice announced to his hidden challenger. 'Step forward and identify yourself.'
'I have no challenge with you,' the female voice said. 'I was just taking a walk in the park.'
'Then come out,' the deep Scottish brogue drifted to her through the air. It was tantalizing.
Jade stepped out from behind a tree and faced Connor MacLeod. She'd heard stories about the elusive immortal and had to admit she was intrigued. She looked him up and down determinedly. He was just as appealing as she'd heard he was. Small in stature, but powerful. His blond hair was soft to the eyes. His deep blue eyes missed nothing. She would not underestimate this one. She smiled at him as she sensed no immediate danger. He would not strike at her first. 'I thought I would take in the nice evening weather. It will turn cold soon,' she said as she sheathed her sword.
Connor mimicked her action, but he was weary. This woman who stood before him was beautiful, but then so was Medusa. She had long black hair that was pulled back behind her head. Her eyes were shielded from him by the darkness. His, however, were fully exposed to her as he was standing under a streetlight. Since she could already read his eyes, he thought he should be honest with her. 'That was my plan as well,' he said tentatively.
Not knowing where her boldness came from, Jade blinked as she actually said, 'We could finish the walk together.' She couldn't deny the instant attraction. His physical presence had an eerie power over her. She could easily lose herself in this man.
'You still haven't told me your name,' he said knowing he would walk with her regardless. He was struck with the sudden desire to get to know this woman. To find out if she felt for him what he felt for her. He'd never been struck so suddenly by an attraction to anyone. He was too weary of strangers to trust anyone.
'I'm Jade,' she said not believing that she had given this stranger her real name. She was stunned at her immediate trust of this immortal.
'Nice to meet you,' Connor said, somewhat bewildered by his actions.
Two Years Later:The force of the Quickening hit him like a hammer. He had interfered with a challenge. Yet, had he really. No. The bastard had not fought fair himself. He had engaged Connor's lover in battle. True. But when he pulled the gun and shot Jade, Connor had taken it upon himself to right the wrong.
Now, the bastard was dead. And Jade was reviving. And, she would be pissed. He would do anything to make sure she stayed alive. If he lost her over this, so be it. At least, she was alive.
Jade woke with tears in her eyes. She had left him that night. Her foolish, stubborn pride had cost her Connor MacLeod. Now, over forty years later, she had to admit that she still wanted him.
The sun shone in from the portals, and Duncan was preparing breakfast. Someone, Jade looked around, probably Amanda was in the shower. Jade sat up and stretched. Methos was still burrowed under his covers on the couch, and Richie was waking slowly.
"Tonight, I get the couch," Richie said grumpily.
Jade chuckled and stood. "Crybaby," she said as she walked to Methos' couch. She needed to talk to him. He was the only one she felt comfortable with.
Duncan watched her. Curiosity getting the best of him, he almost let the eggs burn.
Shaking Methos gently, Jade quietly said, "Wake up, sleepyhead. We gotta talk."
Methos woke slowly and checked the clock. It was 8:30. "What do you want?" Methos tried to play grouch until he saw the look of quiet desperation in her eyes. Something was wrong with her. He rose and quickly put his sweats on. "Outside?" he asked, leading her towards the door.
Duncan looked on as the two walked out the door. Something was wrong here. He didn't like it.
Once outside and alone, Jade questioned Methos, "I heard Duncan tell you that Connor was coming on Sunday. Is that true?" She tried to stay matter-of-fact, but failed miserably.
Methos shrugged. "Yeah, he's bringing Claudia to us. Duncan asked him to look after her. She's refused to learn to defend herself. She's pretty much a sitting target." At her look of anguish, Methos became concerned. He could tell something wasn't right with her, but what was it? Fearing the worst, he asked, "What's wrong? You and Connor have a grudge or something?"
"Not even close, Methos. But, I think it's worse than that." She closed the distance between them and burrowed her head in Methos' shoulder. She didn't want to face him at the moment. Some things were more easily spoken when they weren't said face-to-face.
"Then tell me," Methos persuaded as he gently rubbed her back. This was difficult for her, he knew; but apparently, she needed to get it out.
Before she lost her nerve, Jade quickly ran down the story of her and Connor's past. Trying desperately to convey exactly how much she still felt for him without actually speaking the words, she finished her story, "After the Quickening ended, I was furious. More angry with myself than Connor. Instead of dealing with it and him, I ran out on him. I couldn't face the fact that he could have died because of my stupidity. I was so terrified of him losing his life that I left him. Somehow, I believed that it was the only way to keep him safe and alive. I was such a fool."
"What did Connor do when you left?" Methos asked. He knew exactly where she was coming from because he'd felt many of the same things himself in his past.
"What could he do? I'd made up my mind about what was best for both of us. He asked me not to go, but I was determined. He tried to follow me, but I covered my tracks well. I heard through the grapevine that he asked about me for several years."
"The desire to assert the will must be a family trait then," Methos said, thinking that Duncan would have probably done the same thing if he were in that situation.
"They have a lot in common, Methos. Don't doubt it. Watching Duncan is more like watching Connor than you know. I'm just sick about what I did to Connor and I'm heartbroken that I threw his love away because of my fears. But, I can't be here when Connor arrives. I can't face him."
"If he's as much like Duncan as you say he is, he's already forgiven you, love. He'll want to make things right between you."
Jade pulled away from Methos and paced the deck. "Don't you get it?! I'm terrified that he won't want to take me back. He's probably moved on to another lover. He's at no loss for those, I'm sure. What if he turns me away? I can't believe I'm so insecure about this. I'm over 4800 years old, dammit. See why I can't stay here? I'm a fucking mess, and the man hasn't even shown up yet." Covering her face, Jade finally gave free rein to her tears.
Methos closed the distance between them and held her tightly. Offering her comfort the best way he could at the moment. He said, "Alright, love, let me see what I can do. We'll find someplace else for Connor and Claudia to stay. Besides, Claudia would never stoop to these living conditions. She's a first class girl, after all." He chuckled in an attempt to lighten her mood. She pulled him closer in response. Instinctively, he kissed her. Damn, but he had never seen anyone get under her skin the way that Connor had. Did she go through this when he left her all those years ago? More than likely, yes. Jade was a person who felt things deeply.
Jade pulled away only slightly to look at Methos as she spoke, "I don't want to cause problems, Methos. Really. I think I should be the one to go."
"Nope. It'll never happen. I want you here with me." Methos clutched her back to him to show how serious he was about the matter.
"You aren't my protector, Methos," Jade said as she pulled completely away.
"No, but I do love you and I care about what happens to you. Sue me for caring!" Methos wasn't sure what exactly set off his anger, but he was getting pretty tired of people not listening to him. All he wanted to do was keep her safe, couldn't she understand that. He didn't think he was being unreasonable here.
Jade sensed his rising anger and quickly assented. She was tired of fighting. Maybe she should let him be her protector, for this once. He was simply looking out for her best interests, after all. "Okay, Methos. I'll stay as long as I can."
Methos hugged her again. "Thank you, love," he said, thankful that she had finally allowed him to be the one to help her.
The next several days passed without incident, at least for those sequestered on the barge. Joe had called to say that the hunter had taken out two more women. Duncan was becoming extremely agitated. Methos was aloof. Jade was preoccupied, and Richie was restless. All together, they were not a fun and exciting group of people. Too many hours spent together in close quarters was taking its toll on all of them.
By the time Saturday evening rolled around, the five immortals were absolutely stir crazy. Jade stood and said, "That's it. I'm going out."
"Where?" Methos asked taking a moment to think that he was really starting to sound a little too much like Duncan.
"For a walk, for a run, dancing, swimming. I don't care. I just have to get out of here." Jade paced the floor like a caged animal. It was definitely time to break free for a few hours.
"I'm going too," Amanda said, jumping at the chance to get out and stretch her legs.
"Count me in," Richie spoke in anticipation.
"I think I'll stay here," Duncan said just as Methos was about to add his vote to the other three.
Methos gave Duncan an incredulous look. "I'm in," he said as he stood and put his arm around his wife.
"Whatever. Let's get out of here," Amanda said as she led the group out of the door.
Duncan had been lost in his own brood, sitting in front of the fireplace. It almost seemed to him that this immortal had personally targeted him. Annie, Ceirdwyn, and Michelle. He knew the man had gotten others, but it was just hard to believe that it was a coincidence. The presence of other immortals filled the barge. "They're back," Mac announced to himself.
The door opened to reveal Connor MacLeod. Taking in his cousin's sour face, he laughed and said, "Well, glad to see you too, Duncan."
Duncan shrugged. "Sorry, man."
Claudia erupted into the barge at that moment. "Damn you, Connor. I said I wasn't going to wait in the car and I meant it."
"I was hoping for a few seconds of peace and quiet," Connor mumbled.
Voice full of indignation, Claudia said, "Duncan, how could you sic this barbarian on me? I haven't had a decent meal in weeks. Not to mention, I've been kept in squalor conditions."
Connor's face turned dark. Even a stranger would have been able to tell that the quiet-spoken man had just reached his limits. Conner turned on her. "Put a sock in it, woman! Looks to me like you've survived just fine."
"You are an oaf!" she screeched.
"Duncan, I am your kinsman and I do feel bound to help you; but if you don't relieve me of my charge, I swear I will kill her myself. This has been the worst week of my life." Connor barely opened his mouth when he spoke. He was over six centuries old, dammit. No twit was going to turn him into a screaming infant, no one.
Duncan smiled.
Claudia calmed her voice somewhat, yet said, "You're no bed of roses, Connor. You are an insolent barbarian."
"Woman," Connor bellowed.
The presence of other immortals stopped the arguing. Richie and Amanda fell into the barge laughing so hard they were crying. Methos had split off from them to stop at the store and get some beer. Meeting up with them, he looked on in concern. "You forget someone?" Methos asked, suddenly concerned at the absence of his wife.
"Jade said she was going to catch up with you at the store," Richie explained.
"YOU LEFT HER ALONE!" Methos shouted. Jumping up, grabbing his broadsword and running for the door, he hissed at Richie, "If anything happens to her, it's your head." With that, Methos was gone.
"Jade's here," Connor said, fear welling up inside him. That killer was stalking the streets of Paris, and the woman he loved was out there alone. He'd wanted to find her and mend things. Now, it looked like he would lose her before he got her back. He removed his sword from his coat and followed Methos out the door.
"Where's he going?" Claudia asked.
"Stifle it, Claudia," Duncan said. He fully understood Connor and Methos' feelings. It was obvious that Connor and Jade had a history. He set out a silent prayer that they found her and that she was okay.
Jade felt the signature of another immortal and tensed. She had deliberately sent Richie and Amanda back to the barge, positive that the hunter would not show up for another couple of days. Apparently, she was wrong. She drew her sword from her coat and spun slowly in a circle. "Show yourself," she said to the darkness.
A slender figure stepped from the shadows. "Good evening."
"It was until now. Who are you and what do you want?" She actually knew who he was, but she wanted his name before she killed him.
"Who I am does not matter. What I want is your Quickening," he sneered.
"I won't be so easy to take," she said as she prepared for battle. Now that she was here and in the moment, she was eager for the fight. This man had caused a lot of people who she cared about grief. He was arrogant, confident, and snide. She was going to relish this kill.
"We'll see," the unnamed challenger said as he attacked. His opening maneuver was easily defended. A few moves later and he knew he was outclassed. This insolent female was good. Very good. Never mind, though, he still had some moves up his sleeves. He displayed one of his best moves for her, certain it would throw her off balance. It didn't. She blocked him easily. "Bitch," he hissed. She was a whole lot better than he had expected. This was going to be a hard one to win.
"Shut up and show me another one," Jade taunted. The man had no choice but to oblige. He was good, no doubt. But, he wasn't better than she. Jade knew she could take him. The good thing was that he was starting to realize it himself. Once his confidence was broken, the fight would be over.
Connor and Methos heard the clash of swords and ran toward the noise. Methos grabbed Connor's arm. "Distract her and she's dead," Methos warned. He knew the two combatants had felt their presence, but both had ignored it. The two men watched helplessly. The two people were deep in combat. By the looks of it, Jade was winning.
She was growing tired of playing with the child. And, to top it off, Methos and Connor had found her. She moved easily when her opponent drove in for a stroke and scored a cut along his side.
"I can't lose her," Connor told Methos. "I've looked to long to find her just to lose her now." He knew she could defeat this man, but the fear was there nonetheless.
"She won't lose," Methos said absolutely positive about that statement.
Jade watched carefully as the man withdrew a few steps seemingly to catch his breath. Her eyes opened in horror as he pulled out a gun. Like a bad memory come back to life, the man leveled the gun at her and fired.
Connor moved when he saw the man reach inside his coat. History was repeating itself. Connor reached the man and put his sword at the man's throat. "You do know you are dead, don't you? Drop the gun."
The gun clattered to the ground.
"Face me," Connor hissed.
The man turned.
"What's your name?"
"Jansen Polesky."
"I'm Connor MacLeod."
Polesky's eyes opened wide as he recognized the name. He was a dead man for sure.
Jade revived in time to see Connor's sword at the man's throat. Time rolled back, and Jade froze in place. Methos was at her side, but all she could see was Connor.
Connor glanced her way and smiled. "Tell me what to do, darlin'."
Jade smiled from her heart and said, "He's yours, Connor."
That was all the permission he needed as he expertly removed Polesky's head from his body. The Quickening was fierce given the amount of Quickenings the man had collected over a short period of time. Connor held up well against the storm.
Once it was over. Jade walked over and held out her hand. When Connor's hand touched hers, she shivered. It felt so much like coming home. She'd once told Methos that she believed she'd be alone forever. She was wrong. She'd found her lifer, lost him, but now had him back again. She pulled him to her and embraced him fiercely. Tears flowed down her cheeks. "Connor..."
"Don't say it, baby. Don't apologize." Connor pulled her close and buried his face in her neck. "I love you too."
Methos watched and smiled. "We need to get out of here," he said.
"Right," Connor pulled away reluctantly, "let's go back to the barge and get your things."
Jade walked back toward the barge with her arms wrapped tightly around Connor's waist. In her wildest dreams, she never thought she'd get him back. Fate had smiled on her and given her another chance.
Duncan met them at the door, looking to Jade and said, "You had us a little worried."
"Sorry," she said.
Methos added, "Connor took the bastard out, although Jade wore him down first."
Connor pulled her closer and kissed her forehead. The bastard was dead, and his love was safe. Connor actually admitted to himself that he was happy.
Richie and Amanda joined the group. "Glad to see your safe, Jade," Richie offered. He was a little saddened to see her clinging to Connor, but knew that her heart belonged to the elder Scot. Amanda's hand at the small of his back reminded him of their plan.
"Well, we're going to cut out of here," Amanda said. "We're going to catch a plane to Brussels." She swiftly kissed Duncan on the cheek. "Take care."
"Stay out of trouble," Duncan said, knowing it was impossible.
The signatures of the two flighty immortals faded into the darkness.
"Where's Claudia?" Methos asked and saw Connor flinch.
"I put her in a limo and sent her to the most expensive hotel in Paris." Duncan smiled knowing he owed Connor big time for his part in Claudia's continued safety.
Jade let him slip from her grasp as the elder MacLeod faced his kinsman. "I will never help with that annoying, self-absorbed, pain-in-the-ass again."
Duncan raised his arms in surrender. "I won't even ask."
"Good."
Methos had taken Jade by the hand and moved her from the clansmen. He wanted to talk to her, and he wanted some privacy to do it in. "Are you okay?" he asked preliminarily.
"More than okay. I got Connor back."
Methos smiled as he felt their chapter coming to a close again. It was being rewritten, bu this time they would be close friends. She deserved to see if she could have something with Connor. She was still Methos' wife and would someday work her way back to him. She always did. "Where will you go from here?"
"I don't know. But, I'll call you when I get there."
"Liar," Methos said as he fought back tears.
"No, I'm not," Jade said honestly, "I will call you."
"You better be too wrapped up in your boy scout to think of me."
Impulsively, Jade pulled Methos into an embrace. This farewell was different than most. She was saying goodbye to her husband and welcoming back her best friend. "I love you so much," she whispered in his ear and she gripped him tightly.
"I love you to," he whispered as he returned her grip.
They parted reluctantly and walked toward the door. Connor had their bags in hand and had apparently already said his farewells to Duncan.
Duncan and Methos followed the two outside and watched them go.
"Well, that's it," Methos said.
"Yep," Duncan said as he closed the door after returning inside. "Claudia is at her hotel. Amanda and Richie are gods know where doing something I don't want to know. And, Jade and Connor found one another again. Add to that the fact that the hunter is dead, and I would say things worked out for the best. What do you think?"
Methos looked out of the portal and off into the distance. "I'm glad she's happy," he said.
Duncan felt his friend's hurt. Life without her was going to be boring. "She's a unique individual."
Methos swallowed thickly. "Jade has seen me at my worst and at my best. Why do you think she's with Connor now? My worst was pretty hard to take. She stuck by me through all of it, Duncan. But, in the end, we had to part so she could save herself. We'll work our way back together. We always do."
Duncan nodded his head. He was right. When Connor fell, he fell hard, but long-lasting relationships with other immortals was not his style. Overall, it wasn't Jade's either. It was clear who's soul she was bonded too. She loved Connor, but her connection with Methos would forever pull her back to him.
