Chapter 24
On the journey back from the island Dani snuggled up to Duncan as they got closer to Seacouver Dani whispered in Duncan's ear "Duncan.would you mind if when we get back.if I went to see Maria.I haven't seen her in a while" Duncan turned to her and smiled "Sure.I'll drop you there on the way through.check on the dojo and Richie.and pick you up later" Dani kissed him and snuggled back down.
They arrived at the hospital a little after noon, Duncan pulled the TBird into the main entrance; Dani kissed him lightly on the lips before getting out of the car. Duncan leaned across the seats "If you sense anyone." Dani smiled as she finished his sentence "I know.find Holy ground or a crowded place and call you" Duncan smiled back and raised his hand "don't slam the." Dani pushed the door and it closed with a loud bang "the door" Duncan said to no one. He watched her as she walked into the hospital before putting the TBird into gear and heading for the dojo.
The Dojo
Duncan sensed the presences of another Immortal as he entered the dojo; Richie was in the middle of the room working out with a quarterstaff, his skin glistening with perspiration. Richie stopped when he sensed another Immortal and turned to face the door. "Mac.your back" Duncan looked around "Yeah.I'm back.were you expecting someone else?" Richie walked over to the wall placing the quarterstaff back into the rack. "Where's Dani?" Richie asked as he joined Duncan as he walked with bags in hand to the elevator "I dropped her at the hospital.she want to see how her friend Maria is doing.anything happen while I was gone?" Richie lowered the gate then leaned against the wall of the elevator "not much.Oh.I had to ban Baxter and his buddies.they got a little out of hand again.I hope you don't mind" Richie said as he lifted the gate, Duncan raised his eyebrows and smiled at Richie "Nope.they were warned last time.did they give you much trouble?" Duncan said as he walked over to the bed putting the bags down next to it.
Richie took a bottled water from the refrigerator and after taking a long drink he turned to Duncan "So how did it go on the island.or shouldn't I ask" Richie laughed as he threw Duncan a bottle, Duncan then explained how Dani had relaxed and the headaches had seemed to disappear "Anything else happen here?" Duncan asked as he had the feeling that there was something else troubling Richie "well.yesterday I was out the back working on my bike...when I sensed some one.but no one showed themselves.it's probably nothing to worry about"
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------- City Hospital
As Dani pushed the door open to Maria's hospital room, Maria waved and smiled at her. "Hi.you're looking better" Dani said as she walked over to the bed, she lent over and hugged Maria. As Dani moved back to sit in the chair next to the bed Maria could see that her friend was troubled "Is there something troubling you? .you're not looking too good" Dani smiled weakly "I'm fine.just got back to town.Duncan took me to his cabin in the mountains.we started out really early.so I'm a little tired" Maria took Dani by the hand and looking into her eyes asked "It's more than that isn't it?" Dani really want to tell Maria all that had happened to her but she could hear Duncan's voice warning her not to "It's been a mad few weeks.and I've been getting headaches.nothing seemed to shift them.while I was on the island they all but disappeared.but we've only been back in the city for less than an hour and they've started again" Dani replied. Maria knew that her friend wasn't going to tell her anymore, well at least for now, so she turned to a subject that she knew Dani would talk about "So when am I going to me this new mystery man of yours.what was his name again?" A broad smile came across Dani's face and Maria saw her eyes light up with just the thought of him "his name is Duncan.Duncan MacLeod" Dani explained a little about Duncan "he'll be picking me up later.so you can meet him then" it was then that Dani noticed that Maria's eyes were distant and didn't seem to be focusing on her, she reached out to touch her "Maria.are you all right? .Maria" suddenly Maria started to shake violently Dani looked around for the emergency button but in her panic she couldn't find it, so she rushed into the hall calling for help. Several nurses rushed to the room pushing Dani aside, there was a lot of shouting and more people and machines came in, Dani was pinned against the wall just watching as they frantically worked to try and revive Maria.
Then the moment Dani had dreaded came, a voice came from the sea of faces, "That's enough.I calling it.time of death 16:05.all agreed?" Dani wanted to shout that she didn't agree but her words dried in her throat, her legs became like rubber that wouldn't hold her body weight and she sank slowly to the floor; silently her lips said "no" over and over again. The people left the room as quickly as they had come, only one nurse remained she was straitening the bedclothes around Maria. Dani used the wall to help her to stand and walk silently over to the bed, the nurse came around the bed to try and stop her "come with me.there's nothing more we could do" Dani shook the nurse's hand off her arm "please.I just want to see.to say goodbye" Dani said as the tears welled up in her eyes, the nurse could see the grief on Dani's face "I'll be right outside.just call me if you want anything" the nurse said as she left the room.
Dani took hold of Maria's hand and smoothed her hair out with the other "Oh.Maria.why did you have go and die now.now that your safe.Cristo is gone.you wanted to know what was troubling me.I wanted to tell you but I promised not to.well I suppose I can tell you now.you see.all this has happened because of me.the man Cristo thought I was someone he loved and he did all of this to get me to be with him" Dani wiped away the tear that was rolling down her cheek. "You might not believe this.but I died that night.Cristo killed me.yeah I did say killed.that's when I found out that I'm Immortal.can you believe that.I know.it's like something out of a fairy story or something.Oh Maria this should never have happened" Dani stroked Maria's cheek "you where the innocent in all of this and now.your gone" Dani put the side rail down and lifted Maria's head until it was resting on her shoulder, she then rocked back and forth as her tears fell unchecked.
Dani didn't know how long she had been there but suddenly she felt panic rising in her, she knew that she had to get out of there and find Duncan. She gently laid Maria down, soothing out her hair; she kissed her on the cheek "I will never forget you.my friend.no matter how long I live.goodbye Maria". Dani pushed passed the nurse who was waiting outside the room, Dani could feel the pain in her head growing, her mind was crowded with thoughts and images making it hard for her to think.
Dani barged her way through the people at the entrance to the hospital, finally she was in the fresh air, her head was spinning and tears blurred her vision, she stood for a moment trying to work out which direction to run in. As her thoughts cleared a little she started running, she had gone some distance from the hospital when she sensed another Immortal, she was looking around as she ran when she ran straight into a well dressed man of about 50 carrying a sliver tipped can and white hair, Dani looked up in panic into a pair of cold green eyes "and where are you going in such a hurry?" he asked his hands holding onto her arms. Dani was nearly overcome by the images of death, pain and betrayal that they seemed to flow from his eyes to her mind, Dani managed to break free from his grasp, in her panic she saw a church on the street, she ran across the busy street, horns blew as she dodge around the traffic. Dani closed the heavy wooden door behind her, she quickly looked around, realised that she knew this church, it had been her sanctuary before it was St Mark's, she made her way to the altar and climbed underneath the cloth into the small hole between the pillars that held up the altar.
She seemed to be there for sometime her heart had slowly gone back to it's regular beat when she heard footsteps getting closer. She held her breath and hoped that they would pass her by, but they stopped in front of the altar. The cloth was lifted slowly and Dani's heart began to beat faster but instead of the strange Immortal it was the friendly face of Father Peter "What are you doing in there again.my child" Dani took hold of the priests hand and climbed out "Oh Father" Dani collapsed into his arms and in between the sobs she managed to tell him about Maria dying and about being chased by the strange man, the only thing she didn't tell him was the man was an Immortal. As Dani spoke with Father Peter her mind started to clear and she remembered what Duncan had told about calling him "Father.can I use your phone.I need to call a friend.he will come and get me" Father Peter showed her into the vestry and left her to make her call.
The Loft
Richie was in the middle of telling Duncan all about what had happened with Baxter when the phone rang, Richie was closest so he answered "Dani.calm down.calm down.Mac's here" Richie said as he handed the phone to Duncan "What's happened?" Duncan asked. Dani told him about Maria dying and that she had run out of the hospital right into another Immortal "Where are you now?" the concern obvious in Duncan's voice "Stay there.I'll be there in 5 minutes.now don't move" Duncan put the phone down and picked up his coat "Mac.what's happening?" Richie asked "Maria died.Dani panic.and ran.right into another Immortal.she's in St Mark's Church.I'm going to get her" Richie shook his head "Man. that sucks.need any help?" Duncan looked back over his shoulder as he reached the door "no.I'll be back shortly".
St Mark's
When Duncan entered the church he felt the presence of an Immortal, he made his way to the vestry where he found Dani and Father Peter. "Father Peter.thank you for taking care of her" Duncan said as Father Peter walked towards him "my pleasure Duncan.she is still a little shaken.it would be best to take her home now" Duncan walked over to Dani who stood up and flung her arms around him "Oh Duncan.Maria is gone.I had to watch her go.and there was nothing I could do" Dani sobbed. Duncan held her tightly to him, his hand smoothing her hair as she buried her face into his chest. "Come we should go" he said softly, Dani nodded and looked up at him "but what about the man?" Duncan wiped away the remaining tears "will talk about that later" Duncan said. Dani hadn't noticed but Father Peter had remained in the room with them, Dani nodded and went over to where Father Peter was standing "Thank you Father" Father Peter smiled warmly at her "This is God's house and you are always welcome.but you don't have to hide under the altar every time".
Duncan walked over to them putting his arm around Dani "time to go.thanks again Father", as Duncan walked Dani through the church he asked "what did the man look like", Dani looked over her shoulder to make sure that Father Peter hadn't followed them "he had white hair.he was well dress and about 50.I think and he had green eyes" Duncan stopped "did he say anything?" Dani shook her head "not really.I didn't give him the chance" Duncan opened the church door "I'll check with Joe in the morning.see if he can tell us who it was". Duncan took Dani by the hand and led her towards where the TBird was parked as they got to the gate to the churchyard; they both felt the presences of another Immortal. Duncan pushed Dani behind him and put his hand onto his sword that was concealed within his coat as he stepped out of the churchyard. "I'm Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod" but there was no response, after a short while Duncan became aware that he could no longer feel the other Immortal, he walked back to Dani, taking her hand he led her to the TBird.
The Dojo
It was late afternoon; Duncan was going through a workout with Richie, when they both became aware of the presences of another Immortal. They turned towards the door as well dressed man with a sliver tipped cane and white hair entered the dojo, Richie took up a defensive stance but Duncan put his hand on Richie's arm, moving him out of the way, as he walked towards the white haired Immortal "Robert.Robert Hamilton?" the white hair Immortal put his arms out to his sides with the palms facing Richie and Duncan and said "In the flesh dear boy". Duncan walked over and they shook hands "It's been a long time.what brings you to town?"
"I was just going to pass through when something caught my eye.and then I found out you where living here" Robert said as he gestured around the room with a little look of disgust. Duncan smiled "it's not much.but I call it home.come up and have a drink" Richie cough and Duncan put his hand to his head "where are my manners.Robert Hamilton this is Richie Ryan".
Richie shook Robert's outstretched hand "nice to meet you.Mac if you don't mind I've things to do here" Duncan was about to say something when the elevator started to descend and they all felt the presences of another Immortal. Dani raised the gate, as she walked out her eyes locked onto the cold green eyes she had seen the other night, Dani's face started to lose it's colour and she back away into the elevator, Duncan had seen her reaction and followed her into the elevator taking her by the hand. "is this the person you bumped into last night?" Duncan asked as he lead her into the dojo "yes" was the only word Dani could speak, her eyes were still transfixed on this stranger, Duncan gently moved her face around so that he could look into her eyes "then you have nothing to fear.Dani Angel this is Robert Hamilton.he's an old friend"
Dani turned back to face Robert "Are you sure he knows the meaning of the word friend?" Dani said coldly, Robert extends his hand to greet her, at first Dani didn't move but when she looked over at Duncan, he frown at her, she then hesitantly puts her hand into Robert's. Suddenly, a wave of nausea flows over her as she sees the images of women and children dying, then the pain hits her, Dani pulled away quickly her hand going to her head. "Dani are you all right?" the concern evident in Duncan's voice "I'm fine.just a headache.if you don't mind Duncan.I'll go and lay down" Dani didn't wait for Duncan's reply she was already in the elevator and it was travelling to the loft.
Duncan turned to Robert "I think we had better go out for that drink.just give me a minute.take a seat in the office" Duncan said gesturing towards the office as he walked to the changing room, Richie followed but didn't say anything until Duncan came out of the shower and was dressing.
Richie was sat on one of the benches "Mac.it might be my imagination but Dani was fine until she shook hands with that guy?" Duncan pulled his jumper over his head "I don't know what's happening with Dani.I've got both Joe and Methos looking in to it.but nothing so far.but she did get quite a fright meeting Robert that way last night."
Richie stood up putting one hand on the coat hooks "I know.but there seemed to be more to it.when she looked at him.how well do you know this guy?" Duncan was tying one of his shoelaces "We met when I was helping to run slaves on the underground railway to Canada.it must have been the late 1850s"
1858
The sound of barking dogs filled the woods it seemed to surround Duncan and the 6 runaway slaves he was helping "we can't stay here.follow me, stay together and keep quiet" Duncan emerged from the undergrowth he quickly scanned the area and the hunters were still some distance away, he beckoned the slaves to follow him. They kept off the main paths, they pushed on through the bushes, which scratched at their clothes and skin; no one cried out as to do so could condemn them all.
It was early the next morning when they reached the bridge that span the Choptank River, Duncan motioned the slaves to wait in the bushes, he then started to walk over the bridge, he had only just crossed the half way point when he felt the presence of another Immortal. His hand went to his sword and he continued to walk slowly over the bridge. A tall man with white hair appeared out of the bushes and smiled at him "I was beginning to think you would never get here".
"I'm Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod.Who are you?" Duncan said as he cautiously approached the other Immortal. "Robert Hamilton.at your service" he said as he approached Duncan "There isn't much time are they with you?"
"Yes.just over the bridge" Duncan said as he started to retrace his steps back over the bridge. He went to where he had left the slaves "it's all right.time to go" as soon as he had finished speaking six people dressed in clothes that were dirty and torn emerged from the bushes. They followed Duncan back over the bridge to where Robert was waiting "now you know where to take them?" Duncan asked as he checked behind him "their not far behind.so you had better get going.I'm going back try to throw the dogs off.I'll catch up with you" Duncan said a he swapped his jacket with one of the runaway slaves, Hamilton stepped forward with his hand outstretched "good luck.I think your going to need it my friend.and don't worry I'll take good care of our passengers" Duncan shook Hamilton's hand before taking off over the bridge to try and take the hounds away from Hamilton and the runaway slaves.
The Dojo
"So you only met him the one time?" Richie questioned. Duncan put one of his feet on the bench and tied his shoelace "no.I didn't manage to catch up with him on that run.but I met him again a couple of months later.we spent sometime drinking and gambling before going back to the railway" Duncan explained as he tied the other shoelace. "So you trust this guy?"
"He's a friend Richie.he's never done anything to make me think anything else" Richie handed Duncan his coat "if you don't mind Mac when I've finished here.I join you at Joe's". Duncan started to walk out of the changing room but stopped and turned back to Richie "Yeah that's fine.can you do me a favour and check on Dani for me before you do".
"No problem Mac.see you later"
The loft
Dani just managed to reach the bathroom before the nausea overwhelmed her. She sank to the floor her head in her hands, images crowded into her mind.
Dani's eyes flickered open, the room she was in was dark except for the faint trace of moonlight creeping around the curtains, as she found herself laid in her bed, she could hear raised voices, slowly she climbed out of bed and pulled on her jeans, she forced her feet into her sneakers that were lying by the bed. Going over to the curtains she pulled them back, Li Tse was in the courtyard with another man, they were arguing but Dani couldn't hear what they were arguing about. Dani then saw the moonlight glint off some thing metal in the stranger's hand, Li Tse then brought out a sword from under his coat and sparks flew as their swords clashed. Dani rushed down to the door to the courtyard just as the stranger ran Li Tse through, as Li Tse dropped to his knees his eyes fell on Dani standing in the doorway "Run Dani.Run.Run" he shouted, Dani tried to move but her legs wouldn't work, she watched in horror as the stranger's sword came down on Li Tse's neck "NO" Dani shouted as lighting started to pour from Li Tse's neck, finally Dani's legs found the strength to move and she ran through the house, out into the street.
This was where her nightmare used to end but now it continued, she was now seeing through the eyes of the stranger, she could see Li Tse's body lying on the stone floor of the courtyard. Slowly the stranger lifted his head and through his eyes, Dani could see a face reflected in a window pane. The face that stared back was Robert Hamilton "OH NO.PLEASE NO".
Frantic hammering on the bathroom door brought Dani back to the present "Dani.Dani.are you all right?.open the door" Richie shouted as he tried the door handle. Dani got to her feet her whole body was shaking and unlocked the door, Richie burst into the room "What's wrong.I heard you shouting" he could see that she was shaking badly, he put his arm around her and led her back into the main room sitting her down on the bed. He returned with a brandy "here drink this" Dani took the glass in her shaking hand and drained the glass. Dani hadn't realised that she had been shouting out loud "I'm sorry Richie.but I'd really like to be alone.I don't feel to good.it's been a long day I just need to rest" Richie knew that this wasn't right he hadn't been unwell since he became Immortal. "Here you lay down.I'm going to get Mac" Dani reached up and looked Richie in the eyes "Don't.I'll be fine.I just need some sleep" Richie waited until she had fallen asleep before quietly slipping out and making his way to Joe's.
On the journey back from the island Dani snuggled up to Duncan as they got closer to Seacouver Dani whispered in Duncan's ear "Duncan.would you mind if when we get back.if I went to see Maria.I haven't seen her in a while" Duncan turned to her and smiled "Sure.I'll drop you there on the way through.check on the dojo and Richie.and pick you up later" Dani kissed him and snuggled back down.
They arrived at the hospital a little after noon, Duncan pulled the TBird into the main entrance; Dani kissed him lightly on the lips before getting out of the car. Duncan leaned across the seats "If you sense anyone." Dani smiled as she finished his sentence "I know.find Holy ground or a crowded place and call you" Duncan smiled back and raised his hand "don't slam the." Dani pushed the door and it closed with a loud bang "the door" Duncan said to no one. He watched her as she walked into the hospital before putting the TBird into gear and heading for the dojo.
The Dojo
Duncan sensed the presences of another Immortal as he entered the dojo; Richie was in the middle of the room working out with a quarterstaff, his skin glistening with perspiration. Richie stopped when he sensed another Immortal and turned to face the door. "Mac.your back" Duncan looked around "Yeah.I'm back.were you expecting someone else?" Richie walked over to the wall placing the quarterstaff back into the rack. "Where's Dani?" Richie asked as he joined Duncan as he walked with bags in hand to the elevator "I dropped her at the hospital.she want to see how her friend Maria is doing.anything happen while I was gone?" Richie lowered the gate then leaned against the wall of the elevator "not much.Oh.I had to ban Baxter and his buddies.they got a little out of hand again.I hope you don't mind" Richie said as he lifted the gate, Duncan raised his eyebrows and smiled at Richie "Nope.they were warned last time.did they give you much trouble?" Duncan said as he walked over to the bed putting the bags down next to it.
Richie took a bottled water from the refrigerator and after taking a long drink he turned to Duncan "So how did it go on the island.or shouldn't I ask" Richie laughed as he threw Duncan a bottle, Duncan then explained how Dani had relaxed and the headaches had seemed to disappear "Anything else happen here?" Duncan asked as he had the feeling that there was something else troubling Richie "well.yesterday I was out the back working on my bike...when I sensed some one.but no one showed themselves.it's probably nothing to worry about"
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------- City Hospital
As Dani pushed the door open to Maria's hospital room, Maria waved and smiled at her. "Hi.you're looking better" Dani said as she walked over to the bed, she lent over and hugged Maria. As Dani moved back to sit in the chair next to the bed Maria could see that her friend was troubled "Is there something troubling you? .you're not looking too good" Dani smiled weakly "I'm fine.just got back to town.Duncan took me to his cabin in the mountains.we started out really early.so I'm a little tired" Maria took Dani by the hand and looking into her eyes asked "It's more than that isn't it?" Dani really want to tell Maria all that had happened to her but she could hear Duncan's voice warning her not to "It's been a mad few weeks.and I've been getting headaches.nothing seemed to shift them.while I was on the island they all but disappeared.but we've only been back in the city for less than an hour and they've started again" Dani replied. Maria knew that her friend wasn't going to tell her anymore, well at least for now, so she turned to a subject that she knew Dani would talk about "So when am I going to me this new mystery man of yours.what was his name again?" A broad smile came across Dani's face and Maria saw her eyes light up with just the thought of him "his name is Duncan.Duncan MacLeod" Dani explained a little about Duncan "he'll be picking me up later.so you can meet him then" it was then that Dani noticed that Maria's eyes were distant and didn't seem to be focusing on her, she reached out to touch her "Maria.are you all right? .Maria" suddenly Maria started to shake violently Dani looked around for the emergency button but in her panic she couldn't find it, so she rushed into the hall calling for help. Several nurses rushed to the room pushing Dani aside, there was a lot of shouting and more people and machines came in, Dani was pinned against the wall just watching as they frantically worked to try and revive Maria.
Then the moment Dani had dreaded came, a voice came from the sea of faces, "That's enough.I calling it.time of death 16:05.all agreed?" Dani wanted to shout that she didn't agree but her words dried in her throat, her legs became like rubber that wouldn't hold her body weight and she sank slowly to the floor; silently her lips said "no" over and over again. The people left the room as quickly as they had come, only one nurse remained she was straitening the bedclothes around Maria. Dani used the wall to help her to stand and walk silently over to the bed, the nurse came around the bed to try and stop her "come with me.there's nothing more we could do" Dani shook the nurse's hand off her arm "please.I just want to see.to say goodbye" Dani said as the tears welled up in her eyes, the nurse could see the grief on Dani's face "I'll be right outside.just call me if you want anything" the nurse said as she left the room.
Dani took hold of Maria's hand and smoothed her hair out with the other "Oh.Maria.why did you have go and die now.now that your safe.Cristo is gone.you wanted to know what was troubling me.I wanted to tell you but I promised not to.well I suppose I can tell you now.you see.all this has happened because of me.the man Cristo thought I was someone he loved and he did all of this to get me to be with him" Dani wiped away the tear that was rolling down her cheek. "You might not believe this.but I died that night.Cristo killed me.yeah I did say killed.that's when I found out that I'm Immortal.can you believe that.I know.it's like something out of a fairy story or something.Oh Maria this should never have happened" Dani stroked Maria's cheek "you where the innocent in all of this and now.your gone" Dani put the side rail down and lifted Maria's head until it was resting on her shoulder, she then rocked back and forth as her tears fell unchecked.
Dani didn't know how long she had been there but suddenly she felt panic rising in her, she knew that she had to get out of there and find Duncan. She gently laid Maria down, soothing out her hair; she kissed her on the cheek "I will never forget you.my friend.no matter how long I live.goodbye Maria". Dani pushed passed the nurse who was waiting outside the room, Dani could feel the pain in her head growing, her mind was crowded with thoughts and images making it hard for her to think.
Dani barged her way through the people at the entrance to the hospital, finally she was in the fresh air, her head was spinning and tears blurred her vision, she stood for a moment trying to work out which direction to run in. As her thoughts cleared a little she started running, she had gone some distance from the hospital when she sensed another Immortal, she was looking around as she ran when she ran straight into a well dressed man of about 50 carrying a sliver tipped can and white hair, Dani looked up in panic into a pair of cold green eyes "and where are you going in such a hurry?" he asked his hands holding onto her arms. Dani was nearly overcome by the images of death, pain and betrayal that they seemed to flow from his eyes to her mind, Dani managed to break free from his grasp, in her panic she saw a church on the street, she ran across the busy street, horns blew as she dodge around the traffic. Dani closed the heavy wooden door behind her, she quickly looked around, realised that she knew this church, it had been her sanctuary before it was St Mark's, she made her way to the altar and climbed underneath the cloth into the small hole between the pillars that held up the altar.
She seemed to be there for sometime her heart had slowly gone back to it's regular beat when she heard footsteps getting closer. She held her breath and hoped that they would pass her by, but they stopped in front of the altar. The cloth was lifted slowly and Dani's heart began to beat faster but instead of the strange Immortal it was the friendly face of Father Peter "What are you doing in there again.my child" Dani took hold of the priests hand and climbed out "Oh Father" Dani collapsed into his arms and in between the sobs she managed to tell him about Maria dying and about being chased by the strange man, the only thing she didn't tell him was the man was an Immortal. As Dani spoke with Father Peter her mind started to clear and she remembered what Duncan had told about calling him "Father.can I use your phone.I need to call a friend.he will come and get me" Father Peter showed her into the vestry and left her to make her call.
The Loft
Richie was in the middle of telling Duncan all about what had happened with Baxter when the phone rang, Richie was closest so he answered "Dani.calm down.calm down.Mac's here" Richie said as he handed the phone to Duncan "What's happened?" Duncan asked. Dani told him about Maria dying and that she had run out of the hospital right into another Immortal "Where are you now?" the concern obvious in Duncan's voice "Stay there.I'll be there in 5 minutes.now don't move" Duncan put the phone down and picked up his coat "Mac.what's happening?" Richie asked "Maria died.Dani panic.and ran.right into another Immortal.she's in St Mark's Church.I'm going to get her" Richie shook his head "Man. that sucks.need any help?" Duncan looked back over his shoulder as he reached the door "no.I'll be back shortly".
St Mark's
When Duncan entered the church he felt the presence of an Immortal, he made his way to the vestry where he found Dani and Father Peter. "Father Peter.thank you for taking care of her" Duncan said as Father Peter walked towards him "my pleasure Duncan.she is still a little shaken.it would be best to take her home now" Duncan walked over to Dani who stood up and flung her arms around him "Oh Duncan.Maria is gone.I had to watch her go.and there was nothing I could do" Dani sobbed. Duncan held her tightly to him, his hand smoothing her hair as she buried her face into his chest. "Come we should go" he said softly, Dani nodded and looked up at him "but what about the man?" Duncan wiped away the remaining tears "will talk about that later" Duncan said. Dani hadn't noticed but Father Peter had remained in the room with them, Dani nodded and went over to where Father Peter was standing "Thank you Father" Father Peter smiled warmly at her "This is God's house and you are always welcome.but you don't have to hide under the altar every time".
Duncan walked over to them putting his arm around Dani "time to go.thanks again Father", as Duncan walked Dani through the church he asked "what did the man look like", Dani looked over her shoulder to make sure that Father Peter hadn't followed them "he had white hair.he was well dress and about 50.I think and he had green eyes" Duncan stopped "did he say anything?" Dani shook her head "not really.I didn't give him the chance" Duncan opened the church door "I'll check with Joe in the morning.see if he can tell us who it was". Duncan took Dani by the hand and led her towards where the TBird was parked as they got to the gate to the churchyard; they both felt the presences of another Immortal. Duncan pushed Dani behind him and put his hand onto his sword that was concealed within his coat as he stepped out of the churchyard. "I'm Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod" but there was no response, after a short while Duncan became aware that he could no longer feel the other Immortal, he walked back to Dani, taking her hand he led her to the TBird.
The Dojo
It was late afternoon; Duncan was going through a workout with Richie, when they both became aware of the presences of another Immortal. They turned towards the door as well dressed man with a sliver tipped cane and white hair entered the dojo, Richie took up a defensive stance but Duncan put his hand on Richie's arm, moving him out of the way, as he walked towards the white haired Immortal "Robert.Robert Hamilton?" the white hair Immortal put his arms out to his sides with the palms facing Richie and Duncan and said "In the flesh dear boy". Duncan walked over and they shook hands "It's been a long time.what brings you to town?"
"I was just going to pass through when something caught my eye.and then I found out you where living here" Robert said as he gestured around the room with a little look of disgust. Duncan smiled "it's not much.but I call it home.come up and have a drink" Richie cough and Duncan put his hand to his head "where are my manners.Robert Hamilton this is Richie Ryan".
Richie shook Robert's outstretched hand "nice to meet you.Mac if you don't mind I've things to do here" Duncan was about to say something when the elevator started to descend and they all felt the presences of another Immortal. Dani raised the gate, as she walked out her eyes locked onto the cold green eyes she had seen the other night, Dani's face started to lose it's colour and she back away into the elevator, Duncan had seen her reaction and followed her into the elevator taking her by the hand. "is this the person you bumped into last night?" Duncan asked as he lead her into the dojo "yes" was the only word Dani could speak, her eyes were still transfixed on this stranger, Duncan gently moved her face around so that he could look into her eyes "then you have nothing to fear.Dani Angel this is Robert Hamilton.he's an old friend"
Dani turned back to face Robert "Are you sure he knows the meaning of the word friend?" Dani said coldly, Robert extends his hand to greet her, at first Dani didn't move but when she looked over at Duncan, he frown at her, she then hesitantly puts her hand into Robert's. Suddenly, a wave of nausea flows over her as she sees the images of women and children dying, then the pain hits her, Dani pulled away quickly her hand going to her head. "Dani are you all right?" the concern evident in Duncan's voice "I'm fine.just a headache.if you don't mind Duncan.I'll go and lay down" Dani didn't wait for Duncan's reply she was already in the elevator and it was travelling to the loft.
Duncan turned to Robert "I think we had better go out for that drink.just give me a minute.take a seat in the office" Duncan said gesturing towards the office as he walked to the changing room, Richie followed but didn't say anything until Duncan came out of the shower and was dressing.
Richie was sat on one of the benches "Mac.it might be my imagination but Dani was fine until she shook hands with that guy?" Duncan pulled his jumper over his head "I don't know what's happening with Dani.I've got both Joe and Methos looking in to it.but nothing so far.but she did get quite a fright meeting Robert that way last night."
Richie stood up putting one hand on the coat hooks "I know.but there seemed to be more to it.when she looked at him.how well do you know this guy?" Duncan was tying one of his shoelaces "We met when I was helping to run slaves on the underground railway to Canada.it must have been the late 1850s"
1858
The sound of barking dogs filled the woods it seemed to surround Duncan and the 6 runaway slaves he was helping "we can't stay here.follow me, stay together and keep quiet" Duncan emerged from the undergrowth he quickly scanned the area and the hunters were still some distance away, he beckoned the slaves to follow him. They kept off the main paths, they pushed on through the bushes, which scratched at their clothes and skin; no one cried out as to do so could condemn them all.
It was early the next morning when they reached the bridge that span the Choptank River, Duncan motioned the slaves to wait in the bushes, he then started to walk over the bridge, he had only just crossed the half way point when he felt the presence of another Immortal. His hand went to his sword and he continued to walk slowly over the bridge. A tall man with white hair appeared out of the bushes and smiled at him "I was beginning to think you would never get here".
"I'm Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod.Who are you?" Duncan said as he cautiously approached the other Immortal. "Robert Hamilton.at your service" he said as he approached Duncan "There isn't much time are they with you?"
"Yes.just over the bridge" Duncan said as he started to retrace his steps back over the bridge. He went to where he had left the slaves "it's all right.time to go" as soon as he had finished speaking six people dressed in clothes that were dirty and torn emerged from the bushes. They followed Duncan back over the bridge to where Robert was waiting "now you know where to take them?" Duncan asked as he checked behind him "their not far behind.so you had better get going.I'm going back try to throw the dogs off.I'll catch up with you" Duncan said a he swapped his jacket with one of the runaway slaves, Hamilton stepped forward with his hand outstretched "good luck.I think your going to need it my friend.and don't worry I'll take good care of our passengers" Duncan shook Hamilton's hand before taking off over the bridge to try and take the hounds away from Hamilton and the runaway slaves.
The Dojo
"So you only met him the one time?" Richie questioned. Duncan put one of his feet on the bench and tied his shoelace "no.I didn't manage to catch up with him on that run.but I met him again a couple of months later.we spent sometime drinking and gambling before going back to the railway" Duncan explained as he tied the other shoelace. "So you trust this guy?"
"He's a friend Richie.he's never done anything to make me think anything else" Richie handed Duncan his coat "if you don't mind Mac when I've finished here.I join you at Joe's". Duncan started to walk out of the changing room but stopped and turned back to Richie "Yeah that's fine.can you do me a favour and check on Dani for me before you do".
"No problem Mac.see you later"
The loft
Dani just managed to reach the bathroom before the nausea overwhelmed her. She sank to the floor her head in her hands, images crowded into her mind.
Dani's eyes flickered open, the room she was in was dark except for the faint trace of moonlight creeping around the curtains, as she found herself laid in her bed, she could hear raised voices, slowly she climbed out of bed and pulled on her jeans, she forced her feet into her sneakers that were lying by the bed. Going over to the curtains she pulled them back, Li Tse was in the courtyard with another man, they were arguing but Dani couldn't hear what they were arguing about. Dani then saw the moonlight glint off some thing metal in the stranger's hand, Li Tse then brought out a sword from under his coat and sparks flew as their swords clashed. Dani rushed down to the door to the courtyard just as the stranger ran Li Tse through, as Li Tse dropped to his knees his eyes fell on Dani standing in the doorway "Run Dani.Run.Run" he shouted, Dani tried to move but her legs wouldn't work, she watched in horror as the stranger's sword came down on Li Tse's neck "NO" Dani shouted as lighting started to pour from Li Tse's neck, finally Dani's legs found the strength to move and she ran through the house, out into the street.
This was where her nightmare used to end but now it continued, she was now seeing through the eyes of the stranger, she could see Li Tse's body lying on the stone floor of the courtyard. Slowly the stranger lifted his head and through his eyes, Dani could see a face reflected in a window pane. The face that stared back was Robert Hamilton "OH NO.PLEASE NO".
Frantic hammering on the bathroom door brought Dani back to the present "Dani.Dani.are you all right?.open the door" Richie shouted as he tried the door handle. Dani got to her feet her whole body was shaking and unlocked the door, Richie burst into the room "What's wrong.I heard you shouting" he could see that she was shaking badly, he put his arm around her and led her back into the main room sitting her down on the bed. He returned with a brandy "here drink this" Dani took the glass in her shaking hand and drained the glass. Dani hadn't realised that she had been shouting out loud "I'm sorry Richie.but I'd really like to be alone.I don't feel to good.it's been a long day I just need to rest" Richie knew that this wasn't right he hadn't been unwell since he became Immortal. "Here you lay down.I'm going to get Mac" Dani reached up and looked Richie in the eyes "Don't.I'll be fine.I just need some sleep" Richie waited until she had fallen asleep before quietly slipping out and making his way to Joe's.