The Gathering Verdict

[EvanStar4506]

Immortal's Quest
The Gathering Verdict

The continuation of The Truth in Justice;

The first page of History giving the reason for the birth of Immortals was lost long ago. The telling of History by mouth had also lost that information when mankind despaired during the dark ages. Even before Horton appeared, mortals would kill what they did not understand.
By destroying Immortals, Mortals had no idea they could possibly be destroying themselves.

“Abominations are the unwanted offspring of a deity and some other being. Abominations are immortal, spiteful, destructive creatures of immense power.”

Chapter One

The night was filled with lightning and thunder. Beth felt pelted with rain while she faced her many opponents. Again and again, she defended her position on the high cliff. How she got there, she did not know except the immortals advanced on her were unrelenting.

Through the noise and rain, a voice said, “We will have your head!”

“Give up and end your pain!” was another taunt.

All the eyes glowed red and followed her movements like a mirror reflection.
With every step back, Beth blocked their swords with her sword and strength. Her heart burned with a fire of determination.

******

The night weighed heavy upon him as Duncan dreamed. Not a dream created by Ahriman but one of desperation.
A surreal scene came to Duncan’s eyes watching the setting sun as he stood on the shore of a beach. Where? He could not guess. He looked out over the ocean and watched a seagull dive and splash in the water after a fish.

He felt the wet sand under his bare feet and he was wearing cargo shorts and a black tank top.
A giggle from behind caused him to turn and around look. Duncan saw a small child about six years old standing there with a football in his hands, looking at him with a smile.

He was dressed in a white shirt and denim shorts with his bare feet were wet. His face had a hint of an olive complexion with a few freckles.

Duncan smiled back and asked, “Where are your friends?”

The child looked puzzled then he shook his head and threw the football to him.

Duncan came forward and caught the ball. Something about his face was both familiar and haunting.

He felt a shiver go through him and knelt to look at the boy closely. He saw gray eyes staring back. His tawny brown hair blew in the ocean breeze.

Duncan gently gripped his shoulder and handed him back the football.
“Who are you?” He asked the boy.

The child smiled mischievously, “I’m your son.”

“You don’t understand,” MacLeod tried to explain, “Immortals can’t have children.”

The boy whispered, “All I know is that you don’t want me.” His hurt tone tore at Duncan’s heart.

Reasoning beyond years of a child, he told Duncan “Just because none before me have survived, doesn’t mean it can’t happen.”

He then looked hard at the small face with sorrow, “If you are born, your mother will die.” he said bluntly.

The boy looked back at him equally sad and whispered, “I know.”

“She has brought me happiness and I can’t lose her.” said Duncan feeling his voice crack with emotion.

His sigh was barley heard and his voice was so quiet, He had to lean forward to hear him say, “I love her too.”

The little boy reached out and touched Duncan’s cheek and said, “I’m glad I could see you this one time father in case I don’t make it.”

He could bear it no longer and held the boy to him in a tight embrace trying to decide what was right. The boy stepped back from him and smiled one more time and said, “I have to go now.”

He walked away from Duncan MacLeod tossing the football up and catching it again. The waves touched his bare feet and the tiny footprints were washed away as he walked.
In the distance they heard someone scream, he looked back to Duncan as everything began to fade.
*****

Beth’s footing slipped on the rocks and mud. She felt her body fall. A sword came down upon her as she went over the cliff. She screamed as the blade cut through her as a parting farewell.

The blackness thundered in her ears as the murkiness became thinner as if drifting up from death’s hold. Her mind fought to awaken and be freed.
Sweat trickled on her face when Beth came fully awake to realize she was screaming. Holding her stomach, she sat up gasping for air.

Mac sat up right behind her. Holding her face he asked her, “What just happened to you?” his eyes looked deep into hers and saw terror.

“I was fighting for my life.” She answered in a shaky voice.

He told her, “Beth, it’s been going on for a week. You can’t go on like this. What are these dreams doing to you?”

“I’m all right now.” she said, pulling away and gaining control she got up and went into the bathroom, shutting the door, shutting him out so she could think.

A knock on their room sounded and Frank asked through the door if they were all right.
Duncan pulled on a robe and went to the door opening it quietly.
“I don’t think so,” he answered, “She said she’s all right now, but I don’t believe her.”

Frank looked in Duncan’s eyes, “What about you? Are you all right?” he asked.
Mac shook his head, “I’m not sure.” he admitted. “I think I saw my son.”
“We have to talk.” Frank said “Meet us for breakfast.”

Nodding in agreement, he and shut the door.
Beth came out of the bathroom and picked up her clothes. She started dressing without looking at him.

Duncan sat down and asked, “I want to help you, please tell me what happened in your dream?”

She looked sharply at him and the fear in her eyes told him enough.

“Frank wants us to meet him for breakfast.” He told her.

“I really don’t want to talk to him or anyone else.” she said looking away and continued to dress.

He asked her, “Why? Are you angry with him?” Standing up he took a hold of her arm.

“Of course I am!” she shouted, “You have no idea what I’m feeling!”

“Then tell Me.” he commanded.

“I have just seen and felt my death all in one moment!” she exclaimed.

Exasperated, she went on to say, “I’m sick and I am dying. If a quickening can cure me, then that’s my goal.”

It sounded simple if that was all she considered. But Duncan could not forget the child who spoke to him and called him father.

“Beth, I won’t let you die.” he told her. He knew he would do anything to keep that promise.

Her face softened a little and she let him hold her. She wanted to believe him, but if she stayed here with him she might not have the one challenge to cure her and she would die.

She let out a sigh, “Get dressed,” she said, “I’ll tell Frank about my dream.”

Duncan smiled and kissed her. “That’s my girl.” he said quietly.

Beth smiled back. Picking up her coat and sword, she went to the door and left before he could say anything else.

Watcher Compound

Joe shook his head, "Forget it Egan, I’m not talking to him."

"I’ll let you see Amy again." smiled Egan, "It will be such a touching moment."
Joe threatened, "Egan, if it's the last thing I do, I'll see you die for this."

"Sorry Joe,” Egan gloated, “but in your position, I doubt seriously you will.”

“Things can change.” Joe said as a promise.

Egan chuckled at this, “Yes they can Joe. It can go both ways.”

“However,” he continued, “if you can get MacLeod to talk to you...confide in you...?" His question trailed off and he left it hanging.

He leaned down to say, "Then I'll be happy to let you have your precious daughter back."

Joe shook his head, “For the last time, I won’t hand over him to you!"

Egan accused him, "You betrayed your Watcher brothers and sisters for that immortal!"

Egan stood up tall and sneered, "Think about it, Joe. You have no choice because he's not here to protect you." Turning to the door Egan opened it.

“Egan wait!” pleaded Joe, “Let me see Amy!”

He gave a wicked smile knowing the trap was sprung and Joe Dawson would do anything he asked.

“I’ll send for you in five minutes, so be ready to ask Duncan MacLeod what I want to know.” He said and didn't look back as he left, slamming the door shut.

Scotland

Beth quickly walked past the McFadden’s room and down the stairs.
Once outside, she turned east and walked at a fast pace dodging traffic. Her thoughts and her mind were set turning inward and she felt ready for anything.

From the window above she was seen leaving. “She’s running,” said Frank.

Deahna asked, “What are you going to do?”

Giving a sigh of annoyance, he said, “I’m going to follow her and hope she doesn’t walk the whole way across Scotland.”

She told him, “You used to do that”

“That was a few hundred years ago, dear. Now can you help me?” he said, grabbing his clothes up in a small bag running out the door. A shadow soon followed her just far enough back to remain disguised.

[EvanStar4506]

Duncan took out his clothes to wear for the day and dressed quickly. He looked outside and knew it would be cold later. The clouds always came late and sometimes it rained by the afternoon.

At that moment he felt someone coming and went to the door before the knock sounded.

"Who is it?" he asked, pulling his shirt over his head.

"It's me Deahna. Duncan let me in." She commanded.

He opened the door to let her in. Looking behind her, he was puzzled to see her alone.

He asked, "Where are Frank and Beth?"

“She left without a word to us, so Frank is following her.” Deahna told him.

Seeing his look of surprise she asked, “You didn’t know?”

As Duncan started packing some clothes he commented, “She told me she was going to tell Frank about her dream.”

“She wakes up screaming, clearly in a frantic state and you just let her go?” asked Deahna.

“So I believed her, what was I supposed to do?” he asked her back, as he continued to pack as quickly as possible.

Taking his arm she faced him, "Well now Beth is out there, scared and looking for the quick way out."

“What do you think about that?” He questioned, and looked at her with set eyes, "Because immortals shouldn't have children?"

“Because she doesn’t know what’s at stake!” Deahna cried, “Don’t you see? This isn’t just coincidence that your child will be born at the time of the Gathering.”

"Deahna, I don't want to lose her!" Mac said with anger as well, “Like I haven’t had enough tragedy in my life.”

Then Duncan said out loud what he had been thinking ever since the news was dropped on him. “Why do you think no child has ever survived in all the pervious thousand year trials?” he questioned.

Deahna shook her head, not sure what he would say.

Duncan revealed, “Because it’s not meant to be.” The ache in his heart matched his voice, “I wish to be mortal again and have lots of children,” he voice was thick with emotion, “but maybe it’s not meant to happen.”

Deahna shook her head again and her eyes pleaded with him, “You’re wrong Duncan. It is meant to happen, but Ahriman won’t let it.”

The ringing of the phone broke up the rest of what she was going to say.
Picking up the receiver, Duncan said, “Hello?”

“Hi Mac, I’m glad I found you.” said Joe.

“Dawson!” He said, “I thought you weren’t going to call me.”

“Well, I got settled in and thought I would call and see how you and Beth were doing. Where are you staying?” he asked.

Duncan let out a long breath, “She’s disappeared again.”

Joe gave a small grunt, “You couldn’t tie her down?” he said, “Remember she’s been taking care of herself for two hundred years before meeting you.”

“Not this time Joe.” He said with worry. “She’s in trouble and with the Gathering only a few months away, she could be in grave danger.” Mac told him in confidence.

“Now you have me worried, what’s wrong with her?” he asked.

Duncan answered, “Without a quickening she’s going to die.”

“What?” Joe said into the phone, forgetting for a moment the position he was in.

Deahna snatched at the phone telling him, “Don’t say anymore!”

Duncan turned his back to her and said, “Joe, Beth is preg...”

Furiously, Deahna quickly pulled the cord from the wall.

“What in hell was that for?” he demanded, dropping the phone onto the table.

She explained, "You can’t tell him because if any immortal finds out they will kill her!" Panic was written on her face.

With confidence, Duncan said, “I would trust Joe Dawson with my life!”

She then revealed what she tried not to, "Joe has been captured by Egan and Amy is hostage as well.” “Think,” she asked him, "How else could he call you directly?”

Duncan realized she was right. If Joe was being held by Egan, he would know everything. Now who would rescue them?

Like a giant weight, all these burdens seem to settle on him at once. He agonized over his next course of action.

“More secrets, Deahna?” said Duncan, sounding so tired. “When does it end?” he asked her.

Being truthful, she said, "I admit to keeping secrets, but it keeps our watcher alive. Frank and I know that he plays both sides. He gives us information and in return we know he reports in about us too."

“I’ve heard enough,” said Duncan, feeling exasperated, “I’m going after her right now.”

He reached down to pack the remainder of their belongings. The luggage would slow him down, but he didn’t want to leave anything behind.
Deahna watched him wondering what he would do when he found her. She had no doubts that he would succeed.

“I’m coming too.” She said, “Frank was going to leave signs along the way for us to follow. She is in a panic state so we don’t know what she’ll do. We’re hoping she will travel towards Glenshee, because that where all immortals will be drawn to.”

“But so far she hasn’t heard the call.” He informed her.

The faster she walked, the lighter it became and soon she came to a bridge that crossed the river, one of many she would cross over the next two weeks. As Beth searched for an immortal to defeat, she tried to keep her mind off of Duncan Macleod.


Chapter Two

Watcher Compound

As Joe hung up the phone, he looked to Egan and said, “It was disconnected at their end.” He sighed and asked, “Did you hear enough?”

Egan was deep in thought and just nodded. He signaled the guard to take Joe back to his room.

Joe had but one request, “Can I see Amy now?”

“Soon Joe, You can see her soon.” Egan replied as the guard pulled the wheelchair out of the room and shut the door.

Egan went back to his Watcher logs. Muttering to himself he said, “Someone was in the room with MacLeod. What did he mean by that last part? She would die without a quickening.”

Fingering through the most recent entries he saw one name stand out. “Mark Kalpak. He is Frank and Deahna McFadden’s Watcher.” he said out loud.
He tapped his fingers on the desk for a few moments while he thought how to work on Mark.

“Kendal!” he yelled loud enough for the Guard Elite to hear.

The man entered the room and stood at attention.
Egan commanded, “Get me Mark Kalpak any way possible.”
******

[EvanStar4506]

Methos spent the afternoon in the courtyard outside enjoying the brief sunshine as he read through the Watcher's notebook.

On one hand reviewing the new rules and regulations, on the other hand, he is looking for any loop holes in which he can ensnare Egan.
An idea begins to form in his mind.

Joshua came outside to sit at a table near Methos. He began to set up the chess board and asked him, "Ready for a rematch?"

Methos shrugged and put down the notebook. Joshua rarely has time for a game and he found more information was gleaned this way. He went from enjoying the power with Egan to fearing it. Too many watchers had paid the price for this power.

Sitting at the table with Joshua, Methos purposely picked black, so allowing Joshua first move.

Joshua opened with pawn to king 4 and asks him, "How are your studies going? Are you going to finish the Chronicles?"

Methos counters with a pawn to king 4 and replies, "I'm sure you know the answer to that."

Joshua then moved the pawn to king, bishop 4 and said faintly, "You are a duality. You can be both Adam Pierson a watcher and trusted historian. And you are Methos, an ancient Immortal."

Methos moved his pawn x pawn smiling to himself, he remarked, "I've had practice."

Joshua moves his bishop to bishop 4 stating, "I know it Egan a while to figure out who you really were. An historian doesn't just disappear and goes where he pleases without someone becoming curious."

Methos was feeling suddenly defensive as he moved his bishop to king 2. He took a long deep breath and waited for Joshua to continue, wondering where this was leading.

Joshua paused to study the man in front of him before moving his knight to king, bishop 3, saying "I know how your mind works, I've studied your chronicles for years and I can guess your true motives."
His voice grows quieter as he continues, "I know you have always acted honorably towards the watchers in all things and I want you to help me."

Methos casually moved his bishop to rook 5, "Check" he intones, watching Joshua with an understanding look on his face.

Joshua looked down quickly and moved his pawn to kings, knight 3 and his eyes go back to Methos waiting for his plea to be answered.

Methos thinks back to Steven's plea, "Come with me." the night he was caught and imprisoned and for good reason he refused.

He moved his pawn x pawn and thinks, why should I jeopardize my plans to help him? He gives a barely discernible shake of his head.

Joshua sighs and performs the castle maneuver, "I'm not asking for much, just a sharing of information."

Methos answers by moving his pawn x pawn and then replying, “and Check."

Joshua answers with king to rook 1, "Methos the best way to stop this from happening is to help each other." he whispers.

Methos moved his knight to kings, rook 3 and asks, "Tell me first why Egan is set to destroy Immortals? Is he picking up where Horton left off?"
Joshua shakes his head and glances around, afraid that they are being spied upon.

"Egan has his own reasons,” he whispers, “I think he hates immortals worse than Horton once did, except the ones that serve him."
Joshua moved his pawn to queen 4 and continues saying.

"I've also heard now that Amy is pregnant and Eagan is planning to use this information against Joe Dawson to control him. Apparently Egan wore Amy down until she told him the truth.”

Joshua finished putting all he knew before Methos. He sat back and waited to see the effect.

Methos thoughtfully moved his queen to kings 2 and said nothing as he wonders what to do next. Tell Joe now or let Egan play his hand?

With interest lost in the game, Joshua moved his bishop x knight and asked again, "Tell me what are your plans?"

Methos, remaining focused on the board in front of him, slowly moves his pawn x bishop and replies, "My plans include getting the Watchers back to where they were. They don’t include you. No more interfering."

Joshua moved his knight to king 5 and said, "I want that too, but you cannot believe the power Egan has amassed and the money involved."

Methos countered with his bishop to bishop 3, stating, "Power and money gained through Immortals."

"You can't stop him alone." Joshua reasons with him, and then moved his queen to rook 5.

Methos moved his rook to bishop 1, asking, "Would you risk it all for immortals?" In one question he zeroed in on Joshua's integrity.

Joshua stood up and slowly laid his king down. He made this promise, "In a heartbeat I would."

Methos stood up and faced him, looking Joshua in the eye; he said quietly, "No betrayal and I'll consider your proposal."

Reaching out to shake Joshua's hand, Methos commented, "Thank you for the game. Perhaps next time you'll win."

Joshua smiled and replied, "I already have."

The sun was going behind the clouds as he packed up the chessboard and pieces to go inside.
Methos went back to the journal he was writing in.

Both men, aware of the danger they are in carefully maintained the look of innocence.

Cruise Ship in the Indian Ocean

Amanda stood on the deck of the cruise ship smelling the salt air. It would be several weeks before she would arrive near Scotland, but she had the time.
Ever since the vision she was at peace. She even decided not to go after Vumali. It wouldn't accomplish anything. Her sights were now on Duncan MacLeod.

She didn't know what exactly she would do when she found him, but Amanda knew she wanted to be there.
She smiled at the thought that Duncan would need and depend on her again.

"Amanda." Constance called out, coming over to stand next to her.
"You’re missing all the fun.” She said leaning on the rail. “Come downstairs and dance. The guys are asking for you." Constance smiles her best to persuade her.

Amanda smiled back and replied, "Maybe later."

"What's wrong? You're no fun anymore." Constance says in a pout. "Ever since you got lost, it's like you’re a different person before me."

Amanda said, "I am different, dear one."

Taking her hand, she confides in Constance. "I brought you along because I wanted you to have fun with me." And to keep an eye on you, her thoughts finished in silence.

Constance gave her a questioning look but said, "All right, but I always have more fun with you there."

Amanda hugs her quickly then turns her around in the direction of the stairs. "I promise I'll come down soon."

Constance laughed and said, "You better, or I'll send all the guys to come and get you." She looked back at Amanda and went below.

Amanda watched her friend go and sighed with uncertainty clouding her mind. Constance acted more like a sister then a best friend. She knew a lot of personal things too, so why would she betray her.

Amanda saw no tattoo and didn’t think she was a watcher either.
When Amanda had made it back to town and showed up on Constance's doorstep, you could have knocked her over with a slight breeze.




Watcher Compound

That evening, Methos took Joe his dinner tray. He had some news that needed telling right away.
Going to Joe's room he went in past the guard. Setting down the tray, he untied Joe, who was grateful.

Rubbing his wrists Joe asked, "So what's going on? Everyone is on eggshells."

Methos replied quietly, "I don't know exactly, but the rules for Watchers have changed dramatically." fixing the tray before Joe indicating that he should eat.

Turning on a small radio, Methos wanted to be sure a recording couldn’t be made of their conversation.

Joe ate while Methos told him what Egan had revealed about the alteration in watcher policy.

"There is a lot more going on that I can say in one sitting." Methos confided, "Their long term goal is to take over everything even the Watcher Chapters in all countries."

“That’s a big ambition to take a bite of and not choke on.” Joe replied. He ate his meal slowly, knowing soon the guards would make sure he was tied up again. He missed the simple pleasures of eating unassisted; going to the bathroom alone, being able to walk with his legs.

The bastards took his legs away and tied him to a bed. This was an imprisonment Joe resented. The Watchers never behaved in this manner before.

Quietly Methos told him, “Don’t say anything Joe, but Amy is with child.”
Seeing Joe’s reaction, he held up his hand and said, “Not a word Joe because you want to keep this information tucked away so Egan can’t use it against you.”

Controlling his anger Joe replied, “Now why would I say anything. I just want you to kill the bastard.”

[EvanStar4506]

“Killing Egan is not my fate Joe.” Said Methos, “It might be yours and the other watchers to put him on trial and execute him.”

Joe answered back, "Then we go along with the plan."
He whispered, "Keep playing their game and when it's time..." He bunched his fist as if to strike, "We’ll take him out."

Methos shook his head, "It's not what you think, Joe. You can't pull Egan from power without outside help."

Joe nodded and said, "Maybe not but I can try." He looked Methos in the eye showing no regrets.

“Joe, he never leaves the compound and Amy is kept very close now, like a human shield.” said Methos. “One more thing,” he added, “Amanda is still alive.”

“What?” Joe questioned, “When was she killed?”

Methos explained, “A few weeks ago it was reported back that she had been defeated and the body burned beyond recognition. Now her watcher just called in to say she was back.”

“You’re just now telling me?” Joe gave a sigh of relief, “I couldn’t stand it if anything happened to her.”

Methos replied, “You and I both friend, she’s one of a kind.”

The guard opened the door to check on them, seeing the food gone he came in to retie Joe's arms in the restraints.

Methos tried to tell him, "He doesn't need those. He's not going anywhere."

"Until I get orders from Egan himself, no way." insisted the guard who knew better that to take orders from Adam Pierson.

Methos shrugged and looked at Joe as if to say, "Well I tried."
Joe nodded his thanks as both men left the room.

He lay there and thought about Egan and the hold he had over the watchers. How he used fear, money and perceived power. What would be the best way to topple Egan's little empire?


Chapter Three

Scotland

This solitary man stood on the hill looking around with the steady breeze whipping his coat around him. His collar turned up and brown hair ruffled his ears. He could hear the birds crying out as they fed and sought refuge in the dusk.

Connor MacLeod was on a search of his own. The call of the Gathering had brought him back to Scotland to face the ghosts that still haunted the moors.

The ghost of Heather called to him as he searched for her resting place. Someone had changed the landscape with excavations. He felt sure that her grave had been dug up as well.

"My bonny Heather." he whispers, "Who has taken you?"

He ended his search in disgust, angry at the locals for not telling him more about the archeologist who had worked the area the year before.

It was almost dark as Connor turned towards the town. He just wanted dinner, a bath, and warm bed. Tall shrubs brushed his coat as he walked the small path.
Soon he stopped short with the unmistakable immortal buzz that he felt; A very peculiar one at that.

He turned slowly around and brought out his sword. Looking at the undergrowth that was tall enough to hide someone, he soon located the source of the feeling and was startled by what he saw.

"Who are you?" He demanded. "I must say but you are a strange immortal." He told the woman.

In the fading light he saw her pull her sword from the back harness.

He thought to himself, "This won't be much of a fight if we can't see each other."

As if she could read his thoughts the woman said. "A full moon will be showing in a couple of hours. I'll wait until then but no longer."

Connor looked doubtful and asked, "You're challenging me?" his smile showed his amusement.

In confidence she answered, "Yes I am."

Connor wanted to laugh, but instead told her, “Well I was hoping to have some dinner right now. Would you care to join me?"

He slowly put his sword away, gambling on his gut feeling that there was some honor in her.

Beth hesitated at his suggestion. She was hungry and felt swayed by his voice.

He thought the gamble was worth it and told her, "Let's go eat and then afterwards if you still want to challenge me, I'm all yours."

With this said he gave a little bow and turned around leaving his back open to her. Starting down the dirt path, he whistled a tune.

Giving a groan of frustration, she did not see Connor smile as she put her sword away and followed him. After traveling all this way just to find another immortal, she hated giving in so easily. But something about this man seemed impressive.


Watcher Compound Training Room

“Don’t just stand there, fight me!” ordered Jason. His sword kept coming at Methos in frenzy. Methos blocked the blows and defended but without attacking, even taking all the cuts and stabs by Jason without comment.

Methos watched for the right time because this was something he had to prove. He knew he had to fight and show everyone he deserved the title of General and the right to lead.

Jason pushed him, threatened him to win or die. "Again, Do it again." ordered Jason, his sword cutting through his defense.

Methos attacked then retreated, pulling Jason into a pattern and said, "I'm just not into this fight." He questioned, “What’s my motive?”

“I don’t think you ever rode with the four Horsemen.” said Jason, “You must have made it up.”

He taunted again, "You have no honor," his backswing caught Methos and cut him

Methos mocked him back saying, "You’re the pawn of a mortal." bringing his sword up feinting an attack. Then something snapped inside and he was pissed. He stopped defending and went on the attack.

Jason parried the attack and said, "Enough insults for today, you want to stop old man?"

"I'll stop when you’re dead," continued Methos, making his next attack with more force.

"Stop it!" shouted Jason, "I won’t kill you!"

Bringing his sword around for a final attack, "You better do it!" Insisted Methos, “Show me what you’ve got, you motherless bastard.”

Jason blocked the attack and pushed Methos back, hitting him in the face with his fist.

"I Hunt Alone!" Challenged Methos, bring his sword down with the power of both hands cutting through Jason's arm.

The sword continued its momentum unchecked, slashing next through Jason's neck. As the head came off and the body fell, Methos came back to his senses.

The empty room filled with the lightening essence as Methos regretted Jason's death instantly. With a fury, he began slashing anything in the room with his sword. He felt a scream emerge as the lightening hit him again.

Everyone floors away felt the Quickening begin and heard the scream. Wondering who it was, they ran to the source. A large group got there as the electricity stopped.

The horror showed on every face when they saw Jason's body. Joshua was the only one to enter the room.

He said in disbelief, "What have you done?"

"I have killed someone who didn't deserve my rage." remarked Methos looking unsettled.

The crowd by the door was pushing each other to see. Joshua ordered a body bag to remove Jason's remains. He was thinking the whole time just what Egan will do with this news.

Methos’ personal guards escorted him out of the room and up the flight of stairs. Joshua followed at a distance lost in his own thoughts.

The Guard Elite in the traditional blue and gold uniform, stood outside Egan’s office while Joshua knocked and then entered alone.

Egan looked up and waited for the report.

Joshua cleared his throat and said, “Methos has killed Jason.”

Egan’s eyes lifted higher and he stood up. Rubbing his hands together he said, “That is good news.”

“You wanted this to happen?” asked Joshua.

“I wanted to push Methos to the breaking point to see what would happen. Now I know." replied Egan, smiling with satisfaction.

"Then will you send him to the Gathering?" Joshua asked, watching Egan’s plan unfold with precision.

"Most likely he’ll go and now that Connor is in Scotland, I have a watcher reporting to us his movements. The next course of action will be studied and considered." said Egan, planning with great care.

"First take care of that other inconvenience we're up against." He commanded.

“Now let Methos in.” Egan dismissed him without even a glance.

Joshua went out and left the door open. Methos was tired but determined to have his way.

Egan signaled Methos and his guards to enter. He said, “Well, General you’ve proved to me you can fight and kill at will. I want you to train the newest immortals joining our ranks.”

Methos turned to the window that illuminated the room. He looked outside and said, “Like your second in command, you’ve got it all backwards. The gathering cannot be controlled by anyone.”

Egan stated, “Methos I need you to prepare the ones that will go there and fight.”

Methos grinned and said, “Alright, but I’m in charge and only the one’s I pick will go.”

Egan nodded his approval, “Then it shall be so.”

Taking a moment to write the order out he said, “Starting today, you will have access to the immortals that have joined our unit.”
Handing Methos the personal orders, Egan told him, “See to it.”

With that declaration, Methos waved his guards to follow him down the hallway. A smile lit his weary face all the way to his conference room.

Going on to his room, Joshua passed Joe Dawson’s cell and wished he could do more for him as well. Once in his room, Joshua locked the door and turned on his computer. He had left it with a booby trap in case someone tried to access files. So far no one had broken in.

[EvanStar4506]

The Watchers were having a little competition from a mob family in New York. They smelled all the money flowing through Watcher hands and wanted to become partners with them. This was the other little inconvenience Egan wanted taken care of personally.

As it turned out, the Maconochie family saw their profits leaving their influence. Bank accounts they had their eye on, went cold on them and slipped away during the night to banks in France.

They had been milking the accounts on their own terms. They didn't know about Immortals, but these customers were only known as important men needing their services.

Tracing the transactions to Paris, Maconochie sent two of his best men there to track it the rest of the way leading them to Watcher Enterprises.

Joshua received a personal invite to lunch yesterday where he sat through an hour of Maconochie's scheme to build a partnership between them.

Joshua turned them down, politely of course, but it didn't sit well with Ben.

"You’re making a big mistake, Mr. Gibbons." He said.

"I don't think you understand the seriousness of what we're requesting." suggested Big Eddy.

They left the expensive restaurant with a few more threats thrown his way.

Joshua thought about that afternoon and hated just sitting there taking their insults.

At Egan requested, it was decided to go on the offensive by calling the Watcher Special OPS training camp outside New York City.
Egan Lasco took a rag tag bunch of soldier recruits and with the money he stole, turned them into an elite force in just one year.

These seasoned Watchers were a force to contend with.
He looked at Egan’s orders as he dialed the private numbered and heard the receiver being picked up.

"Major,” He began, “This is Joshua Gibbons, I need you to do something for me."

The Major asked, "Is this request from Egan Lasco?"

"It's from Egan through me." insisted Joshua, putting the signed orders in the machine and pressing send.

"Does it involve some action?" asked Major.

"Pretty good action," Admitted Joshua, "I'm sending you the information now so check the fax, and keep it on a need to know for those involved only."

"Will do sir, I will call you after the fact." countered Major.

They both hung up the phone and went to their separate tasks. Major retrieved the fax and smiled the whole way to his private office.

Joshua finally relaxed a little and thought, "If Maconochie thinks he can threaten me and the Watchers, and then he is going to have the shortened existence."

Chapter Four

Scotland

They sat down inside the warm Inn while Beth looked around feeling the mood of the room calm her at once.

Connor ordered a drink and dinner for himself and his companion. He decided to be as charming as possible and win her over.

"Can we start over again?" He looked at her and saw her nod to continue.

"Hi, I'm Connor MacLeod, what's your name." He asked while holding out his hand.

Her reaction was one of surprise. "Elizabeth Windsor and I should have known. I seem to be a sucker for MacLeod’s.”

Connor laughed at her remark, he asked her “Whom else do you know?”

Shaking his hand, she asked, “I am guessing that Duncan MacLeod is a kinsman of yours?"

Connor nodded and replied, "A distant cousin, but he acts like my brother. Tell me is he in Scotland right now?"

She nodded yes, “But I haven’t seen him in two weeks.”

His voice softened and he said, "Well I'm a lot nicer, really."

She looked at him with a hint of sadness in her eyes and sighed. Her voice whispered low, "I really miss him."

Their drinks and food arrived so they began eating. That's when Connor noticed the ring she wore. He recognized it from the assortment that Duncan had in his collection from the antique store.

More questions surfaced in his mind than answers. Where was Duncan if she was in love with him and why does she search the countryside alone looking for a challenge?

He decided not to ask right now and perhaps he could discover her motives in time. He watched her eating quickly showing how hungry she must have been.

Connor continued to eat slowly savoring the rich flavor that the native Scotland dishes held and the memories that came with them.

When finished with their customary meal, Beth drank the rest of her water and smiled at Connor.

"I want to thank you for being a gentleman and for dinner." She said with a warmer tone than before.

Connor tilted his head, giving acknowledgment to her compliment.

She declared, "I've decided not to take your head. I don't think Duncan would understand if I took you out of the game."

Connor laughed and said, "No, he might not." He became serious looking at her. "You haven't told me how you know Duncan?"

She looked down and fidgeted with the small ring, clearing her throat she said, "A lifetime ago I met Duncan MacLeod.”

Resting her elbows on the table, Beth looked Connor in the eye to judge how much she could tell him. He smiled at her giving the impression he knew his cousin all too well. She decided to tell him a little more.

She began, “I traveled to Paris to find my friend and lover Richie Ryan. I then learned that he was killed by his mentor and friend Duncan MacLeod.”

Connor held up a hand to ask, “Duncan killed the boy? Why?”

Beth felt pain when she thought of it but told him, “He was influenced and deceived by a demon. Richie just happened to get in the way. It was an accident.”

Connor could not guess what Duncan went through. The murder of a friend was unforgivable. He had more questions, but gestured for her to continue.

She picked up her train of thought, “Duncan told me the truth and I challenged him. We fought for sport but I couldn’t do it.”

Then a tingling began on the back of her neck and then went to the pit of her stomach. She felt herself turn cold.

Looking over to the doorway, an immortal stood at the entrance of the room. He glanced over to the two sitting at the table. He gave a grunt of surprise, and then his cruel eyes narrowed.

Beth inhaled quickly as her head swam with the horrible memory.
Connor looked at her and guessed that she recognized this ugly immortal.

“Who is he to you?” Connor asked.

“He is my enemy.” Beth intoned.

The immortal paused on the threshold as his thoughts came into focus.
Yes, he remembered her now. Two hundred years had passed, but still she hadn’t changed.

That day near Brighton, England stood out in his mind like a moment in time, forever there. He and the others tracked immortals and relished the kill for the sake of killing. That little blood bath of a village turned out to be one of the last their group had massacred.

During the battle a crazy man came up behind him and pierced his back with a red hot searing blade. The pain had been unbearable and it nearly cut his spine in half.
He could see that even now she was alive and an immortal. She wore that sword on her back like a trophy.

It was a poor, motley town, but rich with four immortals living there.
With the bloodlust upon them and the power of the quickening they began to behead all the mortals as well for sport and prevent any pre-immortal from being made. All of them that is, but one.

Becker found her hiding in the snow outside the village boundary, just before dark.
She had been a tender, sweet morsel to play with. A sneer then came to his lips.

He couldn’t remember why they didn’t behead her like the others, but Malden stood over her and stabbed her with his sword.

Seeing her reaction, Connor looked closely at the man to recognize a possible foe of his.

Connor whispered to her, “Let me kill him for you.”

“No, he’s mine!” she whispered fiercely back.

Connor said, “I don’t think Duncan would like it if I stood by and let you fight this guy.”

“NO, you don’t get it,” she insisted while staring at Korbin, “I have to fight him.”

Her eyes turned to him pleading as she whispered, “He was one of those who killed me.”

Now Connor did understand. He finally got his chance to kill the Kurgan. The bastard; who had given him his first death, killed Ramirez and raped Heather. Kurgan had tried to end his life again. Yes, He did understand and knew what revenge felt like.

They both watched as Korbin walked past them to sit at the small bar. He ordered a drink and paid for it. Sitting with his back to them, he gave no appearance of acknowledging them or caring.

“All right” Connor agreed, “If you want him then wait. Now is not the time.” He told her.

Beth nodded in agreement, but kept her eyes on Korbin. The pain she was feeling threatened to overwhelm her. She knew she would need that pain and anger to fight and kill Korbin.

.

[Victoria]

I have just uploaded the next chapters in Evanstars "The Gathering" which is a continuation from "The Truth in Justice" Enjoy everyone :)

[EvanStar4506]

I have just uploaded the next chapters in Evanstars "The Gathering Vardict" which is a continuation from "The Truth in Justice" Enjoy everyone :)

Thank you Victoria, I have posted the revised edition for this story at Holyground Forum. Anyone can go there and read.

http://holygroundforum.net/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=1087

This part of the story is complete up to 34 chapters. Still a few more to go but the action is just getting started.

Happy Reading~