Live Another Day

[destiny]

He could feel the electric sensation snake along his skin, a sparkling slide of heat that ran along his spine and made the hair at the nape of his neck stand on end. It was the buzz of a nearby Immortal. Call it a warning, a sixth sense if you will, but it had saved his Immortal life many times. Carefully, he moved from the mat and reached for his katana propped against the nearby wall.

The razor sharp blade slid along its protective covering with a deadly whisper as he removed it and moved to the door. Duncan MacLeod, of the Clan MacLeod, raised the sword over his head, adrenaline surging through him as the buzz raced through his body, stronger and more intense now. His muscular body tensed, his dark hair, which had grown longer in his days of solitude, fell across a lean cheek, partially hiding his sculpted features. Expressive, dark eyes, which could light up with laughter or darken with sadness, were now narrowed with concentration.

His body tingled, an almost explosive jolt jarring him as the door to the room opened. He braced himself for the confrontation, his strong fingers gripping the katana.

“Whoa! Wait a minute, Mac. I have no desire to lose my head today,” the darkly sardonic voice drawled. The tall, leanly muscular man walked through the open doorway, nimbly sidestepping the imperceptible dip of the sword as Duncan released the tense readiness of his body. With a deeply drawn sigh, Duncan dropped the sword and placed it back against the wall, turning to face his Immortal friend.

“Methos. You could give a person a little warning, you know. Other than this plague of a buzz that doesn’t have a calling card with it.”

Methos laughed and sprawled his muscular frame onto a softly cushioned chair, casually draping himself over it. “Now, tell me how I’m supposed to let you know I’m coming when you’ve cut yourself off from everyone. Your cell phone is turned off and I’m guessing you haven’t even checked messages lately. I can understand wanting a little time alone, but this is getting to be ridiculous. Come on, Mac. Don’t you think it’s time you rejoined humanity?”

Duncan turned and slumped onto the sofa across from his friend. He knew Methos was right. And, sometimes, this man was beyond wise, having lived for over 5000 years. There were times when his friend’s eyes seemed to hold the knowledge of the universe. Then, he would see the sadness lurking there, revealing a soul that was often ravaged with regret over the atrocities he had committed before he changed his life.

“No, Methos, I don’t,” Duncan softly replied, coming to a quick decision, “and I don’t believe I ever will.”


“Oh, come on, Mac, you can’t do this. When you get into one of these funks, it’s never good for you,” Methos softly replied. “As a matter of fact, it’s bad for everyone.”

Duncan stretched his long legs out in front of him. Crossing his arms across his chest, he leveled dark eyes at Methos. “Are you saying I’m not a joy to be around right now?” he growled.

Methos laughed and quickly replied, “Let’s just say you aren’t the life of the party.”

“Fine,” Duncan bluntly stated, raking a hand through the soft, dark waves of his hair agitatedly, “but, tell me how I’m supposed to put what happened behind me?”

Methos leaned forward, his intense eyes locking with those of his friend. “You do it because it’s part of what we are. We are Immortal. And with that comes the pain, the grief and the aching loss of losing the ones we love. But there’s also the other. The soul searing, sweet ache we experience when the special ones come into our lives, if only for a moment. For a short time, our existence has meaning; we click in our perfect world.”

Sighing deeply, Methos leaned back into his chair and Duncan could see the sadness flash through his eyes as the memories caught up with him. Then it was swiftly gone as Methos turned his way. He spoke again, his lyrical voice almost hypnotic as he continued, “Surely, you don’t regret the time you spent with her?”

Duncan swiftly rose from the sofa, paced softly across the floor, and then turned to face Methos. His dark eyes were almost wild with the pain etched across his handsome face. “No, I will never regret that. What I regret is not knowing what happened. Did she die a swift death or did she linger? Was she afraid or at peace?” His deep voice took on a raw edge as emotion raged through him.

“You’re only hurting yourself by doing this, Mac. When Kara’s boat went down during that storm there was no sign of her. We can only hope she didn’t suffer.”

“There is that, isn’t there? But I can’t let it go, Methos, don’t you see? A part of me tells me she isn’t gone. I can still feel her here.” He placed a hand on his chest above his heart and tears glistened in his eyes.

“I’m sorry,” Methos softly said. “I know how much you loved her, but how many rescue teams have dredged those waters. You, yourself, were among them. Don’t you think it’s time you let it go?”

A loud knock interrupted them and Duncan turned to open the door. As it swung wide, he was surprised to see a familiar face staring back at him. Joe Dawson moved into the room, his cane softly thumping the floor as he went.

“Hi, Joe. What brings you here?”

Joe looked over at Duncan and a slow smile spread across his face. “I think I might have some good news.”

[pukkie]

Good !!!:)

[JustBecause]

...so what happened?!!! ;) :)

[destiny]

Thanks, pukkie, and, JustBecause, here's the next installment. :)

[destiny]

The pulsing beat of the chopper’s blades was a comforting sound as Duncan leaned forward in his seat. Looking out at the blue waters of the ocean rushing beneath them as the helicopter raced to its destination, he felt slightly at peace. At least he was doing something besides sitting around being depressed. When Joe had told him he might have news that Kara was alive, hope blossomed within him. And, now, that he, Joe and Methos were traveling out to a remote island to confirm Joe’s information, Duncan was confident she was still breathing. With each passing second, he could feel the bond that had connected him and Kara growing stronger. Strange as it might seem, he had known in his heart that she was alive.

“Leave it up to Kara to sail her boat in one of the most remote parts of the world,” Joe said as he leaned forward and rested his hands on the handle of his cane.

“Yeah. You know how she is, Joe. When she wants to be alone to work on her novels she really needs the solitude. The strength and beauty of the sea gave her that,” Duncan replied as he met Joe’s all knowing eyes.

“I can understand that and the storm that destroyed her boat wasn’t one that was forecasted. Quick and vicious was what I heard. She couldn’t have had time to prepare. But, apparently she managed to survive it.”

“What I can’t understand is why she hasn’t contacted me,” Duncan softly said, his dark eyes filled with concern.

“There’s something I haven’t told you, Mac, and I was hoping to wait until we landed. But, I guess now’s a good time as any.”

Duncan tensed, knowing what he was about to hear wouldn’t be good news. If he knew anything about his watcher, he knew this man believed in telling it like it is. No subterfuge, just plain old Joe. “Spill it, Dawson. What’s going on? I have to know.”

Joe rubbed a hand wearily across his face and heaved a deep sigh. “Kara is living on the island with Don Armando Santiago, a powerful man who runs his island with an iron fist. She was sighted at his home by one of my fellow watchers and he let me know.”

Anger, fast and furious flowed through Duncan, along with disbelief. How could she do this to him? Had their love only been one sided? Or maybe it had only been a dream on his part. He slumped back in his seat, shock mirrored on his face.

“Mac, don’t jump to conclusions,” Methos interrupted, hoping to calm his friend. “Maybe he has taken her against her will. We don’t know the circumstances yet.”

Duncan leaned forward, his lean jaw tensing as he ground out, “Believe me, I intend to find out just how Don Santiago came to have Kara in his life. When I finish with him, I will know every detail.”

“Mac, there’s something else you should know,” Joe said, regret shading his rugged features. “Don Santiago is Immortal.”

[destiny]

The warm ocean breeze filtered through the open patio window, drifting over Duncan as he lay in bed. Restless, he moved from the bed and walked out into the warm night air. He wore only the bottom of his pajamas and the moonlight scattered its iridescent light across the rippling muscles of his chest and shoulders, highlighting the smooth golden glow of his skin. The insistently chanting rhythm of an island insect filled his ears as he moved across the smooth, white tiles in his bare feet. Near the back of the patio, alongside the peaceful flow of a small water fountain, he found the solitude he was looking for.

Earlier that night, they had arrived on the island and Duncan had wanted to confront Santiago, but Joe had convinced him to wait until morning. Now, his restless mind wouldn’t let him sleep. Emotions and thoughts plagued him, disturbing his peace of mind. He knew he needed the tranquility only the smooth form of the kata gave him. The softly rolling waves of the ocean provided a soothing beat as his disciplined body moved from one point to another, flowing in fluid motion. With each movement, he felt his racing thoughts slow, and the anger flow from his tense body, leaving only peace behind. With one final movement, he brought his palms in, close to his chest, and released a pent up breath. He could feel the negative emotions flowing from him, cleansing his soul.

“I thought I might find you here,” Joe quietly said as he moved out of the darkness near the patio doors.

“Yeah, Joe,” Duncan remarked, almost sarcastically, as his body tensed again, all thoughts of relaxing forgotten. “What sage words of wisdom do you have for me now?”

“Listen, Mac,” Dawson growled. “I don’t pretend to have all the answers, and I know you’re going through a lot right now, but give me a break, will ya?”

Duncan sighed and moved away from the fountain, its serenity a source of irritation now. He looked over at Joe and saw the tired set of his shoulders as he leaned heavily on his cane. Maybe he was being a little hard on him. It wasn’t Joe’s fault that Kara was here on this island. “Sorry. Just overlook me, will you?” Duncan asked as he walked past Joe, patting his old friend on the shoulder, and then moving on. He stopped at the edge of the patio where it met the ocean sand. Overhead, a full moon shone down on the softly rolling waves, their peaceful rhythm a balm to his tortured soul.

“It’s okay,” Joe replied, and then moved over to a nearby table. He sat down with a soft sigh. “Why don’t you join me, Mac? Looks like it’s going to be a long night.”

He did as Joe suggested, stretching out in the softly cushioned chair opposite him. Why not, Duncan thought. If he was going to be miserable, he might as well be comfortable.

“Hey, is this a private party or can anyone join in?”

“No, Methos. The more the merrier,” Duncan laughed and welcomed his Immortal friend, who carried an armful of drinks he had confiscated from the bar inside the private home where they were now staying. Hours, and many drinks later, they had, all, wearily, stumbled off to bed.

[pukkie]

Very Good !!:)

[destiny]

Thanks, pukkie. Next installment coming soon. :)

[destiny]

As the jeep they rode in bumped over the rough road that bordered Don Santiago’s estate, Duncan mentally prepared himself for what was to come, unsure of what might happen. Earlier, they had passed through an armed gate and Dawson had used his credentials to get them through. All of this hadn’t set well with Duncan and he tried not to imagine the worse. Hopefully, it wasn’t as Methos had suggested that Kara was being held against her will. The alternative was unthinkable, though. The thought, that Kara wanted to be here and not with him, left a bitter taste in his mouth. He would face that problem, if it came about, he decided, and chose not to worry about it now.

The driver turned the jeep into a circular drive, which encompassed a huge fountain, and they came to a jarring lurch in front of a palatial home. With its adobe pink walls and trailing greenery, it was almost inviting in its quiet beauty. Without a word, Duncan exited the jeep and made his way to the door, closely followed by Joe and Methos.

“It might be better if I do the talking for now, Mac,” Joe said as he pressed the doorbell and patiently waited for an answer. As Duncan started to protest, Joe quietly interrupted, “Trust me. It’s for the best. At least I’ll get us through the front door, and then you can confront Santiago.”

Duncan reluctantly agreed, thinking Joe, in all his watcher wisdom, might just be right, because everything that was in him was screaming for him to rush in and make sure Kara was safe. He was so used to being cool, calm and in command, that these feelings were new to him. With that in mind, he took a deep breath, and forced himself to relax.

Just then, a uniformed butler opened the door and, after a short explanation of who they were, directed them to the back of the home where a large pool was located. The warm, midday sun reflected off its cool blue waters, making it an almost irresistible temptation in the sultry heat. Several lounging chairs were located around its perimeter and a bubbling spa was a welcome companion for the cool nights. Stone steps led down to a private beach, the salty ocean scent drifting up from that direction.

“Master Santiago is down on the beach. I will inform him you are here,” the butler said and quickly walked down the steps.

“Joe, I appreciate your help,” Duncan began, “but I can take it from here.”

“Mac, Kara’s not…”

A movement from the steps drew their attention as a man walked up from the beach. Clad in swim trunks, he was physically fit and toned. He climbed the steps with ease and made his way toward them. His burnished gold hair glinted in the sun as he turned cool, blue eyes their way, assessing them with a calculating gleam. “Hello.” he said, his voice clipped and slightly accented. “May I ask why you are here? When my guards informed me of your arrival, they didn’t elaborate on the reason for your visit.” He looked at Duncan, meeting his dark eyes with a slight challenge, having felt the Immortal buzz emanating from him and Methos as he neared his home.

Joe stepped forward, prepared to launch into a plausible story for their being there, when he heard Duncan suck in his breath. He looked over at the steps and saw what had caught Mac off guard. Kara walked up the steps, her long, red gold hair loose and flowing down her back. She wore a swimsuit with a matching sarong tied loosely around her hips. Smiling, she walked over and linked her arm with Santiago’s.

“Armando, our picnic on the beach is getting cold. What’s keeping you?” she inquired, all her attention on the tall man next to her.

“Kara, I can’t believe you’re here,” Duncan said, his voice low and raw with emotion. “Are you okay?”

Kara turned to look at Duncan, her emerald green eyes confused. “I’m sorry,” she replied, with a slight tremor to her voice, “but do I know you?”

“It’s Duncan, Kara, Duncan,” Macleod said with some force, a worried frown marring his features. With determination, he strode towards her, intent on settling this once and for all. He placed a gentle hand on her arm when he reached her side. She turned to face him and, as her eyes locked with his, he saw a flash of pain spark through them.

“Duncan?” she softly moaned, and reached up to rub her temple with trembling fingers. Giving a small cry, she started to fall, losing consciousness and terrifying Duncan all in the same moment. He caught her as she fell and lifted her off her feet, cradling her close to his heart. Holding her next to him, images flashed through his mind. Images of the special women he had given his heart to and lost one by one. The pain was there, gnawing at him like a burning abscess, determined to undermine everything he was. Shrugging off the memories, he looked down at Kara and saw the small, red scar on her smooth forehead near her hairline. Could she have been seriously injured during the storm? Was this why she didn’t recognize him? The thought that she might be suffering from amnesia had never crossed his mind.

“Juan, call my personal physician at once!” Santiago shouted and directed Duncan to bring Kara inside. Once there, Duncan placed her on the leather sofa and smoothed the silken waves of hair from her forehead. He frowned as he saw the ugly red scar once again.

Lifting accusing eyes to Santiago, who stood on the opposite side of the sofa, concern for Kara evident in his eyes, Duncan fiercely whispered, “How could you let her become so ill? Couldn’t you see she wasn’t well?”

“She has been under the personal care of my physician and was doing very well until she saw you. I won’t ask you who you are and how you came to know her, but we will talk soon,” Santiago sharply replied.

“Don’t worry; we will certainly talk. And I will know why Kara is here with you. We have much to discuss,” Duncan shot back, his voice a silky threat.

“Mac, how’s she doing?” Joe interrupted, moving next to them. Duncan almost smiled. Never mind that Joe was supposed to be his watcher and not interfere. This trip had gone way beyond that. For the time being, Joe had successfully tempered the moment between the two Immortals.

“Better, Joe, I think,” he replied with a smile. And, as if to prove his point, Kara moaned and slowly opened her eyes. Looking up at the three of them anxiously staring down at her, she seemed as confused as ever.

“Well, this is certainly turning out to be an interesting day,” Methos dryly remarked from his position at the back of the room. During all this he had been a silent observer, content to go with the flow, coolly watching and carefully analyzing. Now, he moved forward, unfolding his lean frame from his propped position against the wall. Duncan almost groaned aloud. What would happen next was almost anyone’s guess.

[pukkie]

It is very good Destiny! :)

[destiny]

Thank you, pukkie. You are good for my writer's soul. I'll have more soon. :)

[Littledevil]

Interesting. I like it.

[destiny]

Thanks, Littledevil. I'm glad you're enjoying it.

[EvanStar4506]

Looks like an interesting love triangle. :D are they going to fight?

[destiny]

Hmmm..maybe, maybe not. ;) I'll be posting more tomorrow.

[destiny]

“Methos,” Duncan warned, his voice almost a low growl. Turning away from Kara, he faced his Immortal friend, who was determined to add his voice to the mix.

“Now, wait a minute, Mac. Hear me out,” Methos said as he moved towards the three men who looked at him with wary eyes. “Kara deserves the truth.”

“You will not...” Santiago began, only to be stopped by Duncan’s raised hand.

“He will, and you wouldn’t be able to stop him even if you tried. Leave it be, Santiago. This lie Kara has been living has to end.” One look into Duncan’s dark eyes and Santiago visibly stepped back. No Immortal had faced that determination and lived to speak of it.

“Don’t I have a say in this?” an eloquent voice broke through the silence that followed. Kara sat up, seemingly stronger and more alert. Duncan looked into her emerald eyes and saw the spirit and fire of the woman he had fallen in love with.

“Yes, of course you do,” Duncan softly replied and held out his hand to her. Without hesitation, she placed her hand in his and he drew her up beside him.

She reached up to caress his lean cheek, her fingers softly outlining the almost familiar features. “There’s something about you, something that trembles on the edge of my memory. I close my eyes and I see flashes. Flashes of...” Softly, her dark lashes fluttered down and a small sigh escaped her. A tender look crossed her face as if she remembered some of the special moments they had shared. Duncan gently squeezed her fingers and she opened her eyes. Slowly, she smiled as she looked up into his dark eyes. It was as if she had searched his soul and found a kindred spirit. This man felt as if he were the other half of her being, that without him she wasn’t whole.

“I don’t think this is good for you, my dear,” Santiago firmly said and moved to come between the two of them. Duncan turned to him and with one quick move of his hand stopped the man in his tracks. Santiago gasped, holding a hand to his throat, the glancing blow a warning he now knew to take seriously.

“I won’t warn you again,” Duncan said, his accent strong in the depths of his emotions.

“Please, don’t,” Kara cried out and stepped forward to stand between them.

“Try not to get upset. It’s not good for you,” Santiago said, clearing his throat to ease the pain.

“No, I’m perfectly fine. Can’t you see?” she replied, throwing her hands up in exasperation, and, then, proceeded to immediately fall into an exhausted slump onto the sofa.

“I don’t believe you are,” a small, dark man cautioned from the open doorway and walked into the room, carrying a black bag at his side. “Everyone, please leave,” he said with some authority.

“But didn’t you say I was getting better, Dr. Fernandez?” Kara softly inquired as she wearily struggled up into a sitting position. She watched, with amazed eyes, as the men calmly filed out of the room, bowing to the doctor’s expertise.

“Yes, but there is still the, not so small, matter of your selective amnesia. The fact that you only remember fragments of your past isn’t good.”

“I know. I can remember my name, and that I was an author, but why I can't remember these people who say they know me so well is beyond me.”

Manuel Fernandez opened his black bag and pulled out his stethoscope. With skilled fingers, he placed the listening device on her chest and hooked the other ends into his ears. “Breath in,” he commanded as he listened intently. Kara did as he requested, a troubled look in her eyes. “Now out.”

“Like I said before, I’m perfectly fine. Just a little weak that’s all,” she grumbled as Manuel removed the stethoscope.

“As you know, we ran every test possible to ensure you were physically fit. And you are, except for your physical weakness, which is understandable given the amount of time you were bedridden after your accident. But this continued memory loss worries me. You should have regained more of your memory by now.”

“Are you saying I may never regain all of it?” Kara exclaimed, distress making her voice almost crack with emotion.

Manuel placed a hand on her shoulder, trying to calm her. ”Relax, Kara. For some, it takes a little longer for the memories to return.”

She slowly stood up and paced across the floor, and then turned to look at the doctor. Tears glistened in her eyes and she fought hard to control them. “But, don’t you see there are memories. And they involve this man, Duncan. He is there in my mind, a wispy figure. Yet, his strength and power is so strong it takes my breath away. When I am near him, it’s as if my mind is trying to will me to remember just how important he is to me. And all this has done is given me a terrible headache.” She reached up to rub the reddened scar on her forehead, a terrible reminder of the blow she had received when she was swept overboard. Thank goodness, Armando’s men had been patrolling that part of the island that night and rescued her before she had drowned.

“He must have been an important part of your life before you came here, but I’m not surprised you haven’t recalled just what he means to you. Sometimes, it takes a shock of some sort to jar those memories and open the door to the past. Let’s hope that’s not the case here.”

Kara gave an exasperated sigh and wearily sat down in a nearby chair. “Let’s hope so,” she agreed, and then smiled up at the doctor when he approached with a bottle of pills in his hand.

“I’ve renewed the prescription for your headaches. Take it only as directed and try not to tax yourself,” Manuel said as he gave her the pills and then snapped his case shut.

“That’s easier said than done, doctor,” she replied and looked over at the closed door. “I’m afraid that with Duncan around, I won’t find a moment’s peace and, right now, I’m not sure if I want to.”

Manuel Fernandez shook his head, giving her an encouraging smile as he walked toward the door. Kara leaned back into the chair with a sigh and closed her eyes. Vivid images flashed through her mind. Dark eyes smiling down at her, strong arms holding her close and soft kisses that took her breath away, merged in her mind. No, Duncan wasn’t a man to easily forget and he would never be.

[pukkie]

You know ,i like it ! :)

[EvanStar4506]

Ooooh the drama! having amnesia after being lovers with Duncan? I couldn't stand it. I would say, "Sure I believe you let's go!"

[appeace]

Or keep him by my side every minute so I could bring back all the memories!!!:eek:;)

I so enjoy your work!

[destiny]

Oh, EvanStar, thanks for the laugh. I really needed it. :) And, appeace, you are so right. ;)

pukkie, as always, you are my loyal reader..thanks so much.

[destiny]

“Enough! I have had enough of you!” And with that, Duncan grabbed Santiago by his throat and slammed him against the nearest wall, anger, hot and furious pulsing through him. Every nerve ending screamed for him to take his sword and end this unworthy Immortal’s existence. Only moments before, Santiago had been complaining, stating that Kara was staying with him and they would all have to leave. There was to be no more interfering in he and Kara’s lives.

“I don’t believe you realize just who you’re threatening,” Santiago replied with a smug look of satisfaction. His cold, blue eyes looked behind Duncan and he gave a slight nod of his head. In the silence that followed, the sound of several guns being readied was almost explosive. Glancing over his shoulder, Duncan saw the room was filled with Santiago’s men, who were all armed to the teeth.

“If you think that scares me, think again,” Duncan snarled, his dark eyes filled with determination.

“Maybe not you, but have you forgotten your watcher friend, Mr. Dawson?”

Duncan swiftly turned and saw one of the gunmen had his weapon trained directly on Joe, only inches from his heart.

You play dirty, don’t you? I wonder if Kara knows what kind of person you really are?”

“Kara knows only what she needs to. Now, leave my villa before my men get itchy fingers.”

Duncan’s eyes narrowed as he watched the gunman next to Joe move his fingers ever so slightly on the trigger of his gun. Without another word, he dropped Santiago as if he was last week’s dirty laundry.

“Don’t worry about me, Mac. I can take care of myself,” Joe said as he turned to look the gunman in the eye, not backing down one inch. As always, he was headstrong and courageous, and full of so much spunk it was almost heroic. Even so, Duncan feared for his friend’s life and cared too much for him to risk losing it.

“Never mind, Joe, we’re leaving,” Duncan said and started toward the door. Methos and Joe followed, silent until they reached the jeep outside.

“I can’t believe you gave in to him so easily, Mac. We could have taken them together,” Methos remarked as he got into the jeep, Duncan and Joe right behind him.

“And let Joe die? No, I don’t think so. I haven’t given up. We need to regroup and devise a plan. Kara needs to get away from that madman immediately.”

“Good. So, what do you have in mind?” Methos smiled, eager for what lay ahead.

[EvanStar4506]

Dirty pool, Santiago! Using Joe like that! He's only delayed the Inevitable.:eek:

[destiny]

Yes, EvanStar, Santiago is not a nice guy. In fact he's downright rotten. ;)

[destiny]

With a cry of shock, Kara surged up from the chair. MacLeod! Oh, my gosh, his name was Duncan MacLeod. Memories came rushing back to her, flashing images blurring on the edge of her mind. Even though there were still some small pieces of the puzzle that was her life missing, she knew she had to find Duncan and let him know what she had discovered. Giddily, she raced into the next room, her earlier weakness forgotten in the midst of her happiness, but came to a screeching halt when she saw the only one there was Armando.

“Where are the others, Armando?”

He turned to her and, for a moment, she almost didn’t recognize him. His blue eyes glittered with sparks of a violent emotion, making his handsome face almost ugly in the soft glow of the wall lights. Hesitant, she took a step back from him, edging toward the door.

“They have left my villa and won’t be back,” Armando replied as his features returned to normal, the cool mask of politeness dropping down over his face.

“Left! No! I have to speak with Duncan,” she cried and quickly reached for the handle of the door.

But, Armando was there before her, moving swiftly with deadly intent. He slammed the door shut with his hand and left it there as he leaned down over her, danger emanating from his every pore. “No, my dear, you’re not going anywhere.”

[EvanStar4506]

First chance she gets call 911!

I can't stand brutes like that! grrrrr:mad:

[pukkie]

Go on destiny , it is very good !! :)

[destiny]

I know, EvanStar, I feel the same. Tnanks for the feedback.

Thanks, pukkie, the next post is coming right up. :)

[destiny]

“And whose big idea was this?” Joe grunted as he trudged up the dirt path leading to the back of the villa. In the deep dark of night, it was almost impossible to see where they were going as they struggled along. Flashlights were out of the question, as that would have alerted Santiago’s henchmen to their continued presence. Earlier, after circling around the property, the driver had dropped them off in the woods that led up to the back entrance of the villa, and then ditched the jeep to make his way on his own. Patiently, they had waited until the dark of night to approach the estate. Several times they had thought they were discovered, but, thankfully, were mistaken. Santiago would certainly have been informed by now that they hadn’t left the estate through the armed gate.

“I asked you if you wanted to stay where we were, Joe, but you were determined to ‘hike your fanny up this goat path’. Now, where have I heard that before?” Duncan snapped, suddenly losing patience with his old friend.

“This isn’t helping things, Mac” Methos coolly remarked, and then proceeded to slip on a large stone buried in the loose, sandy ground, stumbling into Mac, who grunted in surprise, catching them both off guard.

“Okay, let’s stop and think about what we need to do to get Kara out of there,” Duncan said, steadfastly ignoring his Immortal friend’s momentary lapse as Methos straightened with a mumbled apology. “There are too many guns around to risk something happening to Kara, so we can’t just rush in and attack. Her life may depend on our success or failure.” Duncan turned and looked over at the two of them, dead serious.

“Tell me about it,” Joe remarked, and looked down at the illuminated dial of his watch. “Yeah, that should be about right. Give me a minute, will ya, to make some calls.” He pulled a cell phone out of his pocket and proceeded to use it, firing off demands in quick succession. “Good, Manuel. You’re sure all of Armando’s men had the special cocktail for dinner. So, they should be out for awhile? Great. And what about Armando? Darn!” After a moment, Joe snapped the phone closed.

“Manuel? Do you mean Dr. Hernandez?” Methos laughed as he looked over at Joe. “Don’t tell me you had him on your side all along.”

Joe smiled a sly grin, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. “What have I always said? We’re Watchers; it’s what we do. And sometimes, when it’s called for, we do a little more than watch.”

Duncan threw back his dark head and laughed aloud, his heart light for the first time since his arrival on this island. The only thing that stood between he and Kara now was Santiago and he was just a minor nuisance he would take care of. He patted Joe on the back. “Thanks, Joe. I owe you one.”

Joe suddenly sobered and hesitantly remarked, “There’s one small problem, Mac. Santiago didn’t eat his dinner or have the drink. He’s been holed up with Kara in the den, and Manuel said he’s heard some shouting coming from behind the closed door.”

“Stay here, the both of you,” Duncan growled as he started up the path. “I will handle Santiago. He’s all mine.”

[pukkie]

Exciting!!! :);):)

[destiny]

Thanks, pukkie. :):)

[destiny]

Kara paced the floor; having been locked in this room for all this time with this crazed man was getting on her last nerve. And now, to add to her misery, her bathing suit was beginning to become uncomfortable and itchy as it dried out from the salt water. She adjusted a strap, and looked over at Armando. He must have changed his swim trunks earlier for the clean white shirt and dark slacks he now wore. How thoughtful of him to leave her in a sodden, itchy suit. Though, she was slowly beginning to realize just how unthoughtful and selfish he really was. As he returned her stare, she saw the madness lurking in his eyes. How could she have been so wrong about him? Somehow, she had to get away from this, inconsiderate, lying chameleon and find Duncan.

Deciding she had had enough, she prepared herself for what she knew she must do. As she walked Armando's way, she stopped pacing and turned towards him. Channeling all her strength behind the movement, she quickly brought the palm of her hand up into his nose, driving it into the soft cartilage. When he bent over in pain, she linked her hands together and slammed them down onto the back of his neck. He groaned and leaned forward, off balance. It only took one hard shove to send him sliding onto the floor. Not wasting a moment, she ran towards the door, grasped the handle and raced out into the hallway, knowing she only had one chance to get away.

In her mad dash for freedom, she passed Dr. Hernandez along the way, who gave her a worried frown and started to speak. She didn’t even pause to listen to what he might have said as she quickly opened the rear door and ran out into the dark night. Behind her, she could hear Armando, who had quickly recovered from her attack, bellowing in rage as he stumbled through the house. A wave of dizziness threatened to overcome her, but she bravely shook it off and kept going. She knew, without a doubt, that her life depended on her strength right now.

Suddenly, she ran into a hard chest and strong arms came out to support her. “No! Leave me alone. Let me go!”

“Shhh, Kara, my love, it’s okay. It’s Duncan. You’ve nothing to fear, now or ever,” he softly said and brought his hand up to stroke her hair, strong fingers gently caressing the curve of her cheek.

“Duncan?” she quietly inquired and a small tremble shook her. “Oh, my God, it’s you.” She wrapped her arms around him, reveling in the safety and strength of this man who cared so much for her and loved with all his heart. The honor, loyalty and grace this man embodied flowed through her as she held him close, opening her mind that had been closed for so long. She shivered as her world came crashing down, and memories became reality. She looked up at him and saw the moonlight caressing his striking features, features that were now so familiar.

Dark eyes smiled down at her and she knew at that moment that he understood. With a happy shout, he caught her up and spun her around. When he set her down on her feet, he leaned in and gave her a tender, soul searing kiss. When his mouth met hers, she knew she was finally home.

“Well, if this isn’t a pretty picture,” Santiago growled as came to a grinding halt in front of them.

[EvanStar4506]

Sound like out of the frying pan, but not out of the fire.

Looks like a fight is coming. ;)

[pukkie]

Oh beautiful !!:)
First i toughd everyting is okey now
But no ! nex ,a fight ?

[destiny]

Thanks for the feedback, EvanStar and pukkie. :) Next post is coming up.

[destiny]

Duncan thrust Kara behind him and, in one quick movement, whipped his long jacket off. Kara watched, astonished, as he withdrew, almost magically, a deadly looking sword from its depths. In front of him, Santiago held a sword of his own in his hand. With an evil laugh, he said, “So, Highlander, it comes to this.”

“We both knew it would,” Duncan replied and moved towards Armando, crouching down into a fighter’s stance, his sword at the ready.

Swords! Oh my God, what was happening? Was she having some kind of weird nightmare that her injured mind had conjured up? This was like some terrible scene out of a movie; it couldn’t be real. Kara fought off a wave of dizziness and started to protest. “Wait! You can’t…”

“Oh, yes, my dear, we can. Don’t you know it’s all a part of the Game? Hasn’t Duncan told you? We fight until one of us loses his head.”

Kara sucked in her breath in surprise, horror almost taking her breath away. “No...no. Duncan, please, tell me he’s lying.”

Duncan turned to her, for just a moment, wanting to soothe her, but not knowing how. His dark eyes were filled with pain and the knowing of the fate he must live as an Immortal. “I’m afraid what he says is true, Kara. Now, stand back and this will be over soon.”

At that moment Joe and Methos came up the hill and Kara turned to them with tears unashamedly falling down her cheeks. They walked over to her and Methos took her by the arm. “Come, Kara. You shouldn’t see this.”

“No! I won’t leave him. You can’t make me leave him!” she cried out and wildly shook off their attempts to restrain her, huge, gasping sobs escaping her now. She brushed the blinding tears from her eyes and turned to face the man she loved with all her heart. No one had ever cared for her as this man did, with such a strong, unconditional love. When she looked into his eyes, it was as if she was linked to his soul, as if she had known him so many lifetimes. She would not lose him, not when she had just found him again. Whatever she had to do to save him from this madness, she would do. Whatever promises she had to make to keep harm from him, she would make. Game or no Game.

[pukkie]

And,what nex !!! ;):)

[destiny]

Thanks for keeping up with my story, pukkie. The last post and ending is coming up. ;) :)

[destiny]

Suddenly, there was an awful sound, the cold, ringing clang of metal striking metal. Kara watched with anxious eyes as the two men charged towards each other, and an electrifying spark eclipsed from their swords as they clashed together. Duncan withdrew, his graceful body moving in a rhythm older than time, and then he arced his sword upwards, meeting the vicious jabs of Armando’s blade expertly. With each clash and thrust of the blades, Kara cringed, so afraid Duncan might be injured. But, as she watched the two men, she began to see it was Duncan who was the more experienced swordsman. In one quick movement, he unarmed Armando, who stumbled and fell to his knees. Whipping his blade around, Duncan brought the razor sharp edge up against Armando’s throat.

“Duncan, please, don’t,” Kara cried out and rushed forward. “Please, he’s not worth it. Whatever this Game is, please, don’t do this. Leave it and leave him.”

Duncan turned to look at her and she saw his dark eyes were almost glazed over, the lust for battle strong within him. She placed her hand on his arm and felt the muscles flex as he tensed. Slowly, the fight left him and his eyes became a soft, liquid brown.

“You know, you’re right. He’s not worth it,” he said and slowly removed the blade, all the while keeping his eyes on the fallen Immortal in front of him. “Perhaps another day, Santiago.”

Santiago looked up at him and snarled, “I’ll keep you to that, Highlander. This isn’t over. But, for now, leave my island and take that ungrateful wench with you.” His cold blue eyes raked over Kara and she shivered from the threat in them.

“Gladly,” Duncan replied and took Kara’s hand. As he started to walk away, he turned and looked back at Santiago. “If you ever make your presence known to Kara in any way, we will finish this.”

Santiago threw back his head and laughed, the sound echoing eerily around the dark courtyard. “Agreed, Highlander.”

Joe and Methos joined them as they walked away, and then Joe motioned them towards a waiting helicopter he had called in earlier. “It’s not over, is it, Mac?”

“When is it ever, Joe?”

Joe laughed and gave Duncan a comforting pat on the back. “Ain’t that the truth, my friend? Ain’t that the truth? Now, what do you say I treat you all to dinner once we're off this sorry excuse for an island?”

“I’d say that’s the best offer I’ve heard in awhile,” Duncan laughed as he vaulted up the small stepping board into the helicopter, releasing Kara's hand as he did so. And, then, he turned to look down at her, and offered his hand again, giving her a slow, easy smile, ready to assist her into her seat.

Kara looked up at him and thought how she would remember this moment for the rest of her life. The wind from the blades of the helicopter whipped Duncan’s dark hair around his lean jawed, handsome face. Vitality and what made him the man he was seemed to glow from within and into his dark eyes. She smiled as she placed her hand into his, giving her trust and her life to this special man. For the first time in a long while, she laughed, carefree and sure of what ever was to come, knowing they would face it together.

The End

[pukkie]

Great Story Destiny !!! :)

[EvanStar4506]

Awwww, nice story and a really good scene with Armando being spared.
Vivid descriptions! :)

[destiny]

Thanks so much, pukkie and EvanStar, for keeping up with my fanfic. I may be writing a sequel to it soon if I can find the time. :)