Chapter 15
After The Night Comes The Dawn
I
The air that filtered into the shack smelled and tasted like smoke as Rhiannon attempted to sleep on the make shift cot that Ross had made. It wasn't a restful sleep by any means. Rhiannon tossed and turned every few moments, moaning and whimpering with every move. She was dreaming of everything that had happen tonight. As if her mind was on a constant rewind. Over and over it played it self. It was every nightmare she ever had came true. One Rhiannon could never awaken from. In her dream, one thing kept repeating itself. That Victor won. In her dream, Rhiannon was standing in front of herself arguing that it wasn't true. That she felt Victor soul leave him. That it was in deed Duncan who was the winner of the challenge. But the other Rhiannon that she was fighting with told her that she was wrong. That Duncan did lose and now she was damned for the rest of her immortality. Rhiannon moves again attempting to lay onto her back. She groaned and forced herself back on her side.
Ross was rinsing a cold rag for Rhiannon's head when he heard the faint foots steps as someone came onto the porch. He took a quick glance at Rhiannon only to see her move over onto her back with another small moan. If it is an immoral, she doesn't really care. Placing the rag down Ross picks up Rhiannon's sword by the door and opens it. When he does, Ross jumps back. There stood Duncan covered in blood as well as reeking of smoke.
"You scared the hell out of me . . . MacLeod!" Ross said flustered, as he set the sword back up against the wall.
Duncan stood there for a moment. Shrugged his shoulders then suddenly he started to fall. Ross reaches out and catches him. Then carefully helps Duncan to the chair at the table.
"Water . . . please . . . water." Duncan begged.
Without a second thought, Ross rushes and gets him some water. Duncan drinks it down fast and motions for more. After about his third glass, Duncan breaks the silence between the two.
"How is Rhiannon?" Duncan asked still out of breath.
"She not doing good Macleod . . . I have her laying down, but she really isn't resting to well. (taking a good look at Duncan) How are you doing?" Ross asked.
Ross could see that Duncan had taken one hell of beaten. That not only was there blood on his clothes but he could see that they had been scorched too.
"I have had better days." Duncan said with a deep silent sigh.
Duncan turns and looks toward the cot that Rhiannon was sleeping. He watched her turn back onto her side. As she did, Rhiannon let out a soft moan.
"Rhiannon has been doing that since we got here and I got her calmed down enough to be able laid down and try to get her to sleep . . . Victor did a number on her Macleod. (looking over at her) Her back was almost healed by the time we got back here . . . but she still complained about her head. (looking back at Duncan) I think she is in a state of shock." Ross explained.
Duncan shook his head in agreement, "I wouldn't doubt it. Rhiannon has been through more tonight that any one person should have had too."
Ross went and got Duncan another glass of water and then sat down at the table. He took a hard look at him. He wasn't sure how to ask the next question. But he knew he had to, even though he already knew the answer.
"Is it done?" Ross simply asked.
"Yes . . . it is done. Victor wont be harming her or anyone else ever again." Duncan said with conviction.
"You need to know that Rhiannon . . . freaked out when it happened." Ross whispered so that Rhiannon couldn't hear him.
"When what happened?" Duncan asked confused.
"She called it the quickening . . . (breathing deeply) The lightening that happens when you take the head. (pausing) Rhiannon nearly went into hysterics as the quickening happened." Ross tried to explain.
"It doesn't surprise me." Duncan simply replied.
"What does that mean it doesn't surprise you . . . The girl went nuts . . . I can't even begin to explain to you what she was like." Ross angrily said.
"Ross . . . every nightmare that she ever had was about the quickening. When she came to me the other night . . . (looking into his eyes) . . . when the storm happened. She had a nightmare about it . . . I think in a way it was Rhiannon's mind telling her what she was without giving her the answers." Duncan explained
Ross sat there and shook his head. He remembered the nightmares that Rhiannon has had, when she would wake everyone up with her screams from her nightmares. Sometimes having to have someone sleep with her in the same room, to ensure her that she was okay. Even when Rhiannon was younger she always said that in her dreams, the lightening was chasing her. It made sense to him now. Maybe Duncan was right and Rhiannon's subconscious mind was trying to prepare her. But if she acted that way when her time came to do what they have to do with the game. Would she be able to handle it?
"Macleod . . . if she reacts like that . . . when her time to play the game comes (hesitating) How is Rhiannon going to do what she has to do?" Ross said concerned.
"I think now . . . that she knows what it is, has seen what it does and how it works . . . Rhiannon will be able to handle herself. (smiling) Besides she'll have me to help better understand it all . . . I promise." Duncan persuasively said.
Ross shook his head okay. Even though he wasn't really buying what he was selling. But he really didn't have any choice but to trust Duncan where this was all concerned. He was still trying to grasp the understanding of immortality let alone believe it. Ross looked back over at Rhiannon. He could tell that not only was she in pain but she still was wrestling with everything that had happen to her. One thing Ross knew that was on Rhiannon's mind for sure was what is going to happen to her now that she is immortal. Ross was also curious.
"Okay . . . Now what? (half holding his breath) Now that Rhiannon is immortal . . . What is going to happen to her and her life Macleod?" Ross uneasily asked.
Duncan could see that Ross was thinking that he was going to lose his best friend. In a way, it has already happened. Not for him but for Rhiannon, for now she gets to watch him grow old and die as Rhiannon gets to live on. Turning and looking over at Rhiannon, his heart ached for her. She had been through enough. Now to lose her family would be too much. Duncan wasn't sure if he wanted Rhiannon to go through that right now. Even though he knows eventually it will happen. Duncan didn't think it had to happen now.
"I guess Rhiannon will go on as if nothing happened. (taking another sip of his water) Since no one but us knows that she is now an immortal. I don't really see any reason for her to change her life . . . Not until she has no choice but to." Duncan smiled as he reassured Ross.
A look of utter relief came over Ross's face, "Good . . . because I didn't think I would be able to let her go . . . (smiling broadly) Most of all . . . I didn't want to have to fight you to keep her."
Duncan laughed quietly. Somehow he knew that Ross would do that, just to keep Rhiannon in his life. He could tell that she was that important to him.
Rhiannon turns over onto her back again. This time she whimpered as if she was in a tremendous amount of pain. They both looked over at her and can see that her expression was the same as her sound. There was a tear running down her cheek as she tried to roll onto her back. Ross stood up and went to the sink, running more cold water onto the rag. As he started to move toward Rhiannon, Duncan stood up and stopped him.
"I'll do that . . . Why don't you go up to the house and get us a change of clothes? (placing his hand on Ross's shoulder) That way . . . no one will be the wiser to what had taken place tonight . . . Then we can get Rhiannon home and make her more comfortable." Duncan requested.
Ross pauses for a moment and thought about it, "Yeah, that is a good idea, that way maybe Mrs. Taylor won't have a clue that we were involved in anything. (sighing) Besides knowing Mrs. Taylor she's probably already freaked out about Robbins home being on fire . . . She'll be twenty questions on that alone, this way I can get her calm down enough to get her mind off that. (frowning a little) It won't be quick though . . . it might be a while."
Ross let out a small smile as he said it.
"Oh I understand (half laughing) just get back here as fast as you can okay?" Duncan replied.
Ross shook his head okay. As he hands Duncan the rag, Ross takes one more look at Rhiannon. Then he begins to turn around to walk out when Duncan grabs his arm. As Ross turns around to see what he wanted, Duncan had extended his arm out to shake his hand.
"Thanks for the help tonight Ross . . . I couldn't have done it alone." Duncan thanked him.
Ross smiles as he shakes his hand, "Anything for Baby Girl Macleod . . . now go to her. Rhiannon needs you more than she needs me right now . . . I'll be back as soon as I can."
II
When Duncan reached Rhiannon, he wasn't prepared for what he would see. He knew that she would look hurt, but it was her appearance that took him by surprise. Her long beautiful hair was matted and full of dried blood. Her clothes were torn and bloody too. Even though bruises were fading, what was still left shown the struggle that she put up. Rhiannon had been to hell and back. Duncan's heart just ached for her. Wishing that he could have gotten to her faster, but at least it was over. Reaching down he places the rag on her forehead. She moaned as the coolness of the rag touches her skin. Duncan could see how much pain she still was in. Even though Rhiannon was immoral, the beating she took along with the fall was way too much. As Duncan sat and watched Rhiannon try to get conformable to rest, he decided that what she needed was a warm bath something to help her heal. Duncan hoped against hope that it would sooth her soul as well as her wounds.
Duncan was working on getting the second pot of water on the coal stove to warm, while Rhiannon was in the middle of having a terrible dream. She was mumbling and moaning as she moved back and forth on the cot. Rhiannon was dreaming of Victor. In her dream, she was back in the lesson room tied back to the bed again. Pulling hard on the handcuffs in an attempt to try and get away. Rhiannon could see Victor sitting in the chair in the corner of the room laughing at her.
"I told you Rhiannon . . . You are mine . . . Mine until the end of time. I promised you will always and forever be mine. (smiling widely) And I never go back on a promise." Victor cruelly promised.
Rhiannon watched Victor as he started to walk toward her. Pulling hard on the handcuffs until her wrists bled, she watched as he came closer. It can't be real. It's a dream Rhiannon . . . just a dream. Trying her best to convince herself.
"No more . . . Please Victor . . . no more." Rhiannon begged Victor.
Victor was now close enough to Rhiannon that she realized that it wasn't a whip that was in his hand but his sword. Struggling hard against the handcuffs, Rhiannon managed to pull herself up against the headboard. In the meantime, she tried her best to keep him at bay by kicking at him.
"Please don't Victor . . . I'll do anything you want . . . anything! I just want to live!" Rhiannon implored to him.
"It is way to late Rhiannon . . . I gave you your chance and your choice . . . you chose him . . . It has to be this way. A promise is a promise." Victor said viciously. He slowly brought up his sword. The last sound she heard was the swish it made as it came down.
The scream that Rhiannon let out was one that Duncan will never forget. It was one of complete and utter terror. The sound of it went through him sending a chill that ran up the back of his spine. The scream was enough to make him seem to jump out of his skin. Duncan ran over to Rhiannon. When he got to her, Duncan was surprise to see the position that Rhiannon had managed to place her in. Rhiannon had placed herself between the corner of the cot and the wall. Her arms were striking out into the air trying to hit whatever was tormenting her. Her feet were kicking the air as well.
Climbing onto to the cot with her, Duncan in a calm voice, "Rhiannon . . . it's okay. Your safe."
Rhiannon didn't hear him. She was still dreaming. As Duncan tried to grab her arms, Rhiannon slapped and kicked at him. Trying her best to get away from whatever she was running from in her dream. In fact, Rhiannon struck Duncan with every thing she had, pushing and pulling away from him.
"No . . . don't please . . . I promise I won't ever do this again . . . Please, please just let me live." Rhiannon said begging.
Rhiannon was slapping and kicking Duncan as hard as she could. Each hit stung Duncan but he wouldn't give up. Placing his legs on top of hers he managed to grab her arms and pulled her to him. With her arms by her sides, Duncan managed to place her into a bear hug. Holding Rhiannon as close as he could to him. He leaned in and whispered into her ear.
"Rhiannon . . . Its Duncan sweetheart . . . now come on and wake up. Open your eyes and you will see it was all just a dream . . . just a terrible dream." Duncan said gently as he could.
Rhiannon wasn't listening or couldn't listen. In her mind she still was fighting Victor. She struggled against Duncan trying to get away. But Duncan wouldn't let her go. He got a firmer grip on her. This time he wasn't going to be nice about it. He had to wake her up and get her to snap out of it.
"Rhiannon! . . . (suddenly slapping her in the face) Wake up now! Its time for you to open your eyes and realize you are dreaming . . . Now open your damn eyes . . . Now!" Duncan said as harshly as he could, even though it broke his heart to do it.
Rhiannon slowly opened her eyes. At first she was unsure where she was. Her eyes searched around the room. Then let them drift in front of her. When Rhiannon saw that it was Duncan that had hold of her. All the panic and the struggling she was doing stopped instantly. Looking deep into his brown eyes, Rhiannon reached up and touched his face. Duncan grabbed her hand and kissed her palm. It was all that it took. Rhiannon just started to cry as she buried her head into his chest. It was an inconsolable cry. It was a cry that ran so deep that she trembled. Rhiannon was hurt more than Duncan could have imagined. Duncan knew that all he could for Rhiannon in that moment was to hold her as tightly as he could. So Rhiannon could let out every bit of grief and pain she had.
Rhiannon couldn't believe that after everything that had happen that Duncan indeed had made it. She knew in her heart that he did. But Victor had played such a mind game with her that she doubted what her gut was telling her. Rhiannon will never be able to explain to anyone what she felt when she opened her eyes and seen Duncan sitting there in front of her. A sense of relief washed over her. Then just as suddenly she realized that it was indeed over. Victor was gone. That Rhiannon would never have to be in that kind of fear again.
Duncan slowly moved his arms from Rhiannon and grabbed both of her shoulders looking deep into her eyes. He wanted to make sure that she was indeed awake and able to comprehend that she was indeed safe.
"Are you going to be okay?" Duncan asked as he lifted her face gently so he could see her eyes.
Rhiannon attempts a smile and just shakes her head yes at him.
"Okay . . . Now I'm going to finish setting up the bath for you. You just sit there and (tracing the side of her face) don't go to sleep. Stay awake okay." Duncan said.
Again Rhiannon didn't say anything but shook her head okay.
Duncan had finished drawing her bath, placing the last of the pot of warm water in the tub as Rhiannon sat there and watched him. Everything was still all a haze to her. She was still in a state of shock or disbelief maybe both. Her mind was trying to comprehend every thing that had happen, replaying everything over and over again. Rhiannon had to keep telling herself that it was over. Victor was gone and she was safe. The fear that touched her deep in her soul just wouldn't subside. It was like a deep cut that wouldn't stop bleeding. She kept expecting Victor to burst through the door at any moment to finish her. Placing her hand to her chest, Rhiannon rubbed the spot that her mortal soul was taken. She still was unsure if this was real or not. That she still was dreaming. Afraid to close her eyes, Rhiannon willed herself to keep her eyes open. Just in the chance this was a dream. The alternative was unthinkable to her and she didn't want to take a chance and close her eyes to find Victor standing there laughing at her.
Watching Duncan, Rhiannon wondered what was going to happen now. She knew that her life was never going to be the same. Victor destroyed her life. He may have lost the battle, but in a way Victor won the war. He changed her life forever. In the process, he changed her. She could never go back and be that person she was a few days ago. She knew that now that she was immortal, Rhiannon will always have to fight. Fight to keep her head. Fight to be the one. Fight just to live. Rhiannon's mind just kept going over and over everything that was said and done to her. Her mind was unable to shake the nightmares that came true.
Staring off in space, Rhiannon didn't notice that Duncan had come up to her. Touching her on the shoulder, she jumped.
"It's okay Rhiannon. Come on . . . let's get you out of those clothes." Duncan kindly said.
Rhiannon looked up at Duncan like she was in a trance. Absent-mindedly she did as he asked. Duncan guided her to the old basin tub. With his help, Rhiannon took her clothes off and instinctively went into the tub. As she sat down, she let the water flow over her skin and soak into it. The water was nice and warm, soothing. Trying to cover herself with her arms, she pulls her legs up to her and wraps her arms around them. Duncan could see that Rhiannon still wasn't together with reality yet. Her movements were showing she was still to traumatize.
Being as gentle as he could, Duncan took the washcloth and slowly began to wash her. Making sure the washcloth was soaked with water he started just letting the water run over her. Duncan first let the water run down her back, soaking it completely. Then he did the same with the front of her chest. Then he turns to her arms letting the water do the same as it did with her back and the front of her chest. All this in an attempt to sooth her. Then soaking the washcloth with soap, Duncan began to give Rhiannon a bath. He started with her arms then moved to her back.
Duncan could tell that she took a horrible beating. Even though the bruises were fading, it was her soul that was still scar. With every touch, Rhiannon would pull back a little. As the soap began to cleanse her body, Duncan watched with every stroke of the cloth, more and more blood came off. What was left behind were just bruises and those were fading fast before his eyes. Duncan gently leaned her back. Then carefully he started to wash the front of her chest. Instantly Rhiannon took her hand and placed it to the middle of her chest in effort to protect a wound that wasn't there.
"It's okay Rhiannon, I won't hurt you I promise." Duncan persuaded her.
Duncan could tell by her reaction that was where Victor's sword took her mortal life. Being as gently as he could, Duncan removed her hand and tenderly and carefully washed the area Rhiannon so desperately tried to protect it. As he did, tears ran down Rhiannon's face. Duncan heart both broke and ached for her. The damage that Victor had did, Duncan wasn't sure if he could be able to undo. Leaning down, Duncan gently kissed her forehead and then leaned her to the back of the basin to wash her hair.
While Duncan cautiously and softly begin to wash her hair, Rhiannon finally began to calm down. She let the rhythm of him washing her hair, sooth her body as well as her soul. Duncan was trying to be as easy as he could, attempting to get out all the blood from her hair. As he took a cup of water and began to rinse her hair, Rhiannon was starting to relax. Duncan could finally see that the bath was working. Rhiannon was slowly coming out of her shell shock. As the water washes the soap out of her hair, she was slowly letting go of all the grief and anguish.
When Duncan was done with her bath, he started to get up and get a towel when Rhiannon stretched out her hand. He knew what she needed. Without hesitation or thought, Duncan climbed into the basin with her. Clothes and all. Duncan got behind Rhiannon and gently leaned her back against him. Then placing his arms completely around her as he held her as tightly as he could. Duncan could feel the tears fall from Rhiannon's eyes onto his arms. He kissed the back of her head and held her tighter.
"I'm here Rhiannon. I will always be here for you. " Duncan declared.
There was nothing else was spoken. There wasn't any need too. For at that moment all Rhiannon wanted was the comfort that Duncan brought her. She needed to feel the love he had for her. It was the only thing she needed at that moment and that was just to feel safe, to sit there in the water together in the safety of his arms. Rhiannon didn't want anything else from Duncan. There also wasn't any else that Duncan could do for her, but what he was doing for her right at that moment. Duncan knew Rhiannon had to work through this on her own. For Duncan, he was perfectly happy doing what Rhiannon needed from him the most. That was to hold her as close to him as he possibly could and shelter her with his arms.
III
After some time had passed, Duncan had gotten Rhiannon up and out of the basin. Dried her off and placed another towel around her. Slowly, he took her back to the cot and laid her back down. Duncan sat next to Rhiannon in the chair, in his wet clothes with a towel wrapped around his shoulders and watched her closely. Within minutes Rhiannon had drifted off to sleep. This time it was a deep hard sleep, as far as Duncan could tell this one was without dreams or nightmares. As Rhiannon slept, he went and took a bath himself. As he emptied the basin and refilled it with warm water from the stove, Duncan mauled over everything that happened. He wondered if Rhiannon could get over the torment and trauma she had suffered at Victor's hand. Duncan knew that it was going to be a long way back to normal for her. That is if normal ever does come back.
That everything that Victor had done to her, Duncan hoped it hadn't undone everything that Rhiannon had once worked through. Duncan knew what Victor had done to her. This time was different. What happened to Rhiannon was beyond anything she could ever dream of. She had no way of knowing what she was and what he was and most importantly why Victor was doing all of this until he told her. At first Duncan regretted when he first told her about herself. But now looking back, he knew that was the best decision Duncan could have made for Rhiannon. In this way, Rhiannon had taken the fact of knowing what she was in order to survive his torture. But even knowing this, Duncan knew in his heart this is going to change Rhiannon. The problem was how it was going to change her. That was still remained to be seen. Ether way Duncan vowed to himself that he would be there for Rhiannon. To help her and guide her the best he could as much as she will allow. The rest would be entirely up to her.
Getting into the basin, Duncan thoughts turned to how he was going to guide Rhiannon. This was going to be the hard part of their relationship. Duncan could not longer just be her lover. That part of the relationship had changed, it changed before he wanted it to. Now he has to be Rhiannon's mentor, her teacher as well as her lover. To teach her how the game is played and make her understand that to live, Rhiannon had to be able to take care of herself. That meant no kid gloves. It was going to be hard on them both. Duncan wasn't sure if the love that they had for each other would or could remain intact. The things he'll have to say and do, may just break them. Nevertheless, ether way Rhiannon had to be taught how to take of herself. If it meant that they could only be friends, at least she will be able to defend herself. Duncan wished in his heart this all could be different. What terrified him the most was teaching her the game.
It amused and concerned Duncan how easily he was pushed back into the game. How could I ever think I could've walked away? Even though Duncan vowed to himself that he wasn't going to get involved in it. That he was going to try his best to stay out of the game, which was until the gathering came or until he was forced into it by being challenged. Then came Rhiannon and Victor. Then Victor left no one, him or Rhiannon any choice but to join the game. Victor forced Duncan's hand and gave Rhiannon no choice. Realizing that no matter how much peace he wanted it was never going to happen to happen for him. No matter how much he longed for it. As long as there was good and evil fighting against each other. As long there were people like Victor and Rhiannon in this world, he will never have a choice but be part of the game.
With that thought, Duncan finished and got out of the bathtub. Drying himself off, Duncan heard the door slowly come open. Then he listens to Ross tiptoe into the shack.
Ross whispered as quietly as one could as he gently rapped on the bathroom door, "MacLeod, are you in there?"
Duncan wraps a towel around him and opens the door to the bathroom, placing his finger to his lips, shushing him. Ross quietly goes into the bathroom.
"I guess you will be needing these. (handing Duncan some clothes) How is she?" Ross asked.
Duncan just shook his head no. Ross instantly knew that it wasn't good.
"I'll meet you out on the porch." Ross simply said as he left the bathroom.
As Duncan finished getting dressed, Ross made his way out of the bathroom. Not making one sound, he goes and places the clothes that he gathered for Rhiannon and laid them on the chair next to the cot. Taking a moment to look at her, Ross reaches down and lightly moves a piece of hair from across her face. Even though there wasn't any bruising, you could still see the pain that she went through. It was still written all over her face. Leaning down Ross kisses Rhiannon on her forehead. Then quietly he goes out to the porch.
It was still too early in the morning for the sun to come up. Looking down at his watch, Ross notes that it was only five o'clock. He silently made his way to the edge of the porch that went over the creek. It was far enough away from the shack that Rhiannon wouldn't be disturbed. Sitting down on a bench that was facing toward the creek, Ross could see the lights of the fire trucks as they finish putting out what was left of Victor Robbins home. There he sat, watching them. Ross couldn't believe that it was over. Victor was dead and Rhiannon was finally safe.
Ross thought to himself that he would have never believed any of it if he wouldn't have seen it for himself. It was still beyond his grasp of what reality was, let alone what immortality is. Ether way Ross was thankful for whatever it was. Rhiannon was alive and that was all that counted. Best of all, Ross still could be a part of Rhiannon's life and to him that what counted the most in his eyes. Even though one day he knows that there will come a day that they will have to part way, but to Ross that was too far into the future to worry about. For right now what worried him the most was how Rhiannon was going to be when she pulls herself together. Is she going to be in one piece when she does or will she have a total melt down?
Ross could only imagine the suffering that Rhiannon had gone through at the hands of Victor. Having to take the abuse that Victor had dealt out, just so Rhiannon could keep the fact that she was immortal away from him. Knowing Victor the way Ross did. There was no doubt that Victor beat Rhiannon if anything just to keep her in line. What turned Ross's stomach the most was to know that Rhiannon took the abuse and knowing that in some small way it was in her power to of stopped the torture. It was torture within torture itself. But then he thought better of it. Could have she stopped it? Deciding that Rhiannon did the best thing she could have done for herself at that moment. To take the torment so that she could live.
The first time around where Victor and Rhiannon was concerned left a scar so deep that it took a lot on her part to get over it. Then taking it and turning it into the woman that she had became. Just to be able trust and love again, without fearing for her life was a huge turn around for her. Ross remembered that the hardest part was the trust. What about now? Has that all changed for her now? Now that she is immortal. Is it too much for her to deal with the gift that God gave her but now the battle wounds too? Going over in him mind every thing that Ross had seen and heard, this time it was much worse this than it was before.
Ross worried that it could be too much for Rhiannon. He couldn't help but wonder if she could get over it. If she could let what happened to her make her stronger or was this enough to break her will, to make her hate and fear everyone and everything. Ross knew in his heart that everything that transpired has destroyed a part of her that Rhiannon never will get back. Ross hoped as well as prayed that maybe with his help along with Duncan's maybe just maybe, Rhiannon would be able to over come this. So that she can become the person and the immortal that she is destined to be.
In the shack, Duncan was thinking pretty much along the same lines as Ross. How is Rhiannon going to deal with this? Looking over at Rhiannon, Duncan could see she was still sleeping soundly. No moaning or moving just a rest full sleep. Slipping his shoes on, Duncan quietly made his way out onto the porch. He could see in the distance that the fire trucks were still doing their job. Duncan could see Ross was sitting on the bench also watching them. He stood there for a few minutes watching Ross watch the firemen wondering how he was doing. How he was handling all this?
It had to be tough for Ross to watch what happened to Rhiannon and not to being able to do anything about it. Duncan knew it was hard on mortals. To watch immortals and see what they do and then not quite believing what they are seeing. What had to be the hardest for mortals were to stand there and watch, not being able to do a thing. In Duncan's mind it was easier for mortals. He felt that they were blessed. For mortals only have the one life to lead that God gave them. Then they are through and get to go on to whatever God has in stored for them. For immortals, it's all about the next battle. All so in the end there can be one.
Duncan silently went and sat down next to Ross. There they both sat and watched the fire trucks leave. After the fire trucks left, they continued to sit there and just let the silence engulf them. It was Ross who broke the silence first.
"Do you think Rhiannon is going to be okay?" Ross inquired.
"In time." Duncan simply answered.
"How are you doing?" Ross asked.
The question struck Duncan kind of odd. He really hasn't been asked how he was when things like this happen.
"I'm okay I guess . . . It not the first time this had to be done, and it won't be the last." Duncan unwavering said.
"I guess not." Ross turned and looked over at Duncan.
At that moment, he was looking every bit of four hundred years old.
"Well at least this is finished, now Rhiannon and Mama can live in peace like there were meant too." Ross said as a statement.
Duncan sat there for a moment choosing his words, "Maybe for Mrs. Taylor . . . but not for Rhiannon . . . (sighing) She now has to learn the game and there isn't any peace in that."
This caused Ross to frown. He hadn't thought about that. Ross honestly thought once Victor was taken care of that would be it for her and she could go on with her life. What Duncan was saying begin to trouble Ross. He didn't like where this was going.
"I thought you told me that she can go on and live her life like this didn't happen." Ross said disbelieving what he just heard.
Duncan shook his head no.
"What I meant was that no one needs to know what happened to Rhiannon's mortality. (looking out at the water) That she can continue to live life under her own name . . . To be herself, not having to change her name or her persona. (Turning toward Ross) But that doesn't take her out of the game Ross. For Rhiannon will always be watching her back. There will always be someone out there coming for her." Duncan explained.
"Yeah, yeah . . . yeah until there is only one." Ross said snidely.
"That's the rules Ross. That is how we survive. It's been like this for all time . . . It is no different for Rhiannon." Duncan said factually.
Then came the silence again, nether one saying another word just thinking about what was said. It was the first time Ross realized that Rhiannon would never be the same. That Victor had done more than just abused her, but took her life as she knew it. That Victor in the end did win. He won by making sure that he will always be some part of her life. That Rhiannon will never be able to forget what Victor did to her. He made her immortal. That has forever changed her. Even if Rhiannon got over what he did to her this last time. Victor would always be there in the back of her mind, laughing at her.
Ross did have one more important question to ask Duncan, without hesitation, "Are you going to show her . . . I mean . . . are you going to teach her how to play this game? (looking Duncan dead in his eyes) . . . To take care of herself."
Duncan smiled. He knew that Ross loved her and cared for her. After all, Rhiannon was his family.
"Yes Ross, I will teach her . . . I will also make sure that nothing happens to her to the best of my ability. (placing his hand on his shoulder) Just know that there will be a time Rhiannon will have to do this herself and fight in the game without my help. But I will always be there for her . . . I promise." Duncan said trying to assure Ross.
It's what Ross needed to hear. "That's all I can ask."
Duncan patted Ross on his back. It was a brotherly pat one of mutual friendship knowing that both of them will always be there for Rhiannon no matter what. After a while, Ross decided it was time to go. Sleep was settling in for him. After having a few minutes of rest, his body decided to let the tiredness he was feeling take over.
"Do you want me to stay and help you with Rhiannon?" Ross inquired.
Duncan smiled. He mauled it over for a minute and deciding no.
"No Ross, you go ahead. I'm going to let Rhiannon rest for a little while longer . . . then get her dressed and take her home." Duncan replied.
"I'll try and keep Mama busy for a while. So maybe you can slip her in without her knowing about it." Ross said.
"That is good idea. I don't think Rhiannon is in any shape nor form to try and explain everything to her." Duncan answered.
With that said, Ross got up and shook Duncan's hand and left. Duncan sat and watched him walk into the darkness. He knew that it was going to be a chore in its self to keep Mrs. Taylor busy. That thought causes him to smile. She was definitely one with the questions.
IV
With a quiet moan, Rhiannon slowly wakes. Opening her eyes very slowly, she laid there in dark. Every part of her body ached, including her mind. Taking a deep breath in she sits up, a little to fast because the room began to spin.
"Damn!" Rhiannon whispered as she grabbed the edge of the cot.
Rhiannon sat there rigidly as the room spun. Then as fast as it came the dizziness left. Letting loose of the edge of the cot, she slowly moved to the edge of it letting her legs dangle. As her eyes were finally able to focus on her surroundings Rhiannon realized that she was safe no matter who or what came after her. Holy ground. As her eyes drifted around the shack, she notices that there was a change of clothes that laid on the chair. Smiling to herself, Rhiannon knew who left them for her. Ross.
Rhiannon could feel Duncan's presence. It was a familiar and good feeling. It made her feel more secure. Even though Rhiannon still had a feeling of being in a state of confusion, it was a comfort for her to know Duncan was there. She was ever so glad to finally have that feeling of safety. Getting up from the cot, Rhiannon slowly walks over to the chair and puts her clothes on. It felt good to have her own clothes on. Sitting back down on the cot, Rhiannon stretches. Letting out a small whimper as she did. Every muscle she owned was so tight and tired. Most of all, it was her head that still hurt the worse. Rhiannon will never forget the pain she felt when her head hit the floor. It was excruciating.
Sitting there in the dark, Rhiannon's mind started to replay all the events that have happened to her the last 24 hours. She still was unable to comprehend everything that had happen. Wishing it was a dream but most of all wanting it to dream. Rhiannon desperately wanted her life back. In her heart, she knew her life was gone or rather the life she had known. There was no amount of wishing, hoping or praying will get it back. Slowly Rhiannon gets up and makes her way to the door.
As Rhiannon opened it, the mountain air cooled her skin. It was the smell of smoke that caught her attention. As she looked at her surrounding Rhiannon could see in the distance Ross walking up the ravine. Much of a surprise to her, Rhiannon was glad. She didn't think she could face him right now. Only because she knew that Ross would overwhelm her with concern and pity. Even though it would be out of love, it was something that she wasn't ready for. Then having to tell Ross everything that had happened it would be too much. Besides everything else, Rhiannon wasn't too sure if everything was exactly the way her mind was telling her. It all seemed to be to much of a fairy tale or nightmare she didn't know which. Knowing in time, she would tell Ross everything that happened. But in that moment in time she wasn't ready or willing too.
After watching Ross walked away she started to survey her surrounding. Rhiannon was trying to find the source of the smoke she was smelling. Looking out onto the porch, Rhiannon could see Duncan's shape in the distance. He was sitting on the bench. To her she got the sense that he wasn't looking at the water but passed the water. Letting her eyes drift away from Duncan, she too looked passed the water and through the woods. That was when Rhiannon saw for the first time what Duncan was looking at.
"Oh God!" Rhiannon couldn't believe her eyes.
What Rhiannon saw had astounded her. In the distance she could see what was left of Victor's home. It was just a pile of burning embers and smoke. She knew instantly what had cause it. It was the power of the quickening that destroyed Victor's home and everything around it. Rhiannon vaguely remembered the quickening and power of it. What she could remember was being terrified and wanting to get as far away from it as she could.
Rhiannon started to tremble. Trying to get the thoughts of the quickening out of her mind, she placed her hands up to her head. Squeezing as hard as she could. Rhiannon didn't want to remember. What she wanted most was to forget every part of it. It was something that Rhiannon would not or could not face at that moment. To Rhiannon all remembering did for her was to cause her pain. A anguish that touched her soul so deeply. The best thing she felt that she could do for herself, was to forget it all.
Rhiannon reluctantly made her way out to where Duncan was sitting. Her mind wandered in a hundred different directions. Did he know all of what happened to her? Rhiannon was so fearful that Duncan's feelings were going to change for her. Now that she had become more damage than before. In the past, she didn't have a choice for what Victor was doing to her. Back then she thought that was what love was all about. However, this time Rhiannon knew that wasn't the case. She let Victor torment and torture her. Just to keep him from knowing that she knew about their immortality as she tried her best to beat him at his own game. Which Rhiannon felt she failed miserably at.
Stopping for a moment midway on the porch, her mind rushed again. This time Rhiannon was fearing what Duncan might say or do. Rhiannon wondered what was Duncan going to do now that she was immoral. She knew the rules of the game. That in the end there can be only one. So will that mean that he will now have to walk away and stop loving her? Worse of all will Duncan have to turn his back on her now that she was immortal? Knowing that the only way Rhiannon was going to find out the answer to these questions was to go to him. But she wasn't sure that she was ready to hear the answers.
Duncan had turned around just as Rhiannon came up to the bench. He could see that she was finally healed, at least outwardly.
Duncan stood up as he said, "Well . . . Hello there."
"Hi" Rhiannon simply replied.
Duncan placed his hands out for Rhiannon to take them. As she did, he guided her to the bench and they sat down.
"How are you feeling?" Duncan asked.
"Very numb." Rhiannon said honestly.
Duncan places his arms around Rhiannon and pulls her close. He could feel her heart beating a hundred times fast.
"That's to be expected. (stroking her hair as he held her) With everything that you have been through it isn't surprising that you're feeling that way." Duncan replied in understanding way.
Rhiannon places her head on his shoulder and looks at what was left of Victor's house. She could see that there was nothing left but a pile of rubble.
"Duncan . . . It's finally over with right?" Rhiannon asked.
"Yes it is . . . Rhiannon." Duncan simply replied.
Pulling herself away from him, Rhiannon looked into Duncan eyes and nervously said, "I'm sorry."
"What are you sorry for Rhiannon?" Duncan reacted surprised at the apology.
"For putting you . . . (her voice cracked) . . . through this mess I had created." Rhiannon explained.
Duncan sat there and shook his head no as he pulled her back to him.
"You didn't cause this Rhiannon. Victor did! (kissing the top of her head) Now it's over . . . He will never hurt you again . . . And I'd do it in a minute again if I had too." Duncan convincingly said
Rhiannon replied as she talked into Duncan's chest, "But you had to . . . "
"Yes, but now it's done." Duncan interrupted her.
Rhiannon started to cry. This wasn't what she thought he would say. Duncan sat there and consoled her. Holding Rhiannon as close as he could. Duncan could sense she still wasn't herself. That she still was in some sort of denial. For Duncan this was okay. Rhiannon was safe and for him that is all that really counted right now.
Rhiannon lifted her head from her chest and looked across the creek. She stared at what was left of Victor's plantation. Even though she already knew the answer to the question she was going to ask. Somehow she had to ask it just to make it more real for her, if any thing but to reassure herself that this wasn't a dream that Victor was truly gone.
"What happened over there?" Rhiannon directly asked.
Duncan sighed, he didn't want to answer this right now. He felt that Rhiannon wasn't ready for the answer. He knew that the answer might just send her over the edge that he might not get her back from.
"Right now Rhiannon . . . we need to worry about you. What happened over there we can worry about later." Duncan said with hesitation in his voice.
Rhiannon shook her head no. She wanted the answer now. She needed the answer now.
"I want to know . . . (pulling away from him) . . . I need to know Duncan. What happened?" Rhiannon insisted.
"What do you mean?" Duncan asked puzzled. He thought that for sure that she understood that he had taken Victor's head.
"I mean, what happened to the house? All you did was to take his head." Rhiannon persisted.
Then it struck Duncan. It was the quickening that Rhiannon was talking about. She wanted to know what caused all the damage to the house and why. Duncan knew that he was treading on thin ice when he attempts to answer this question. Mainly because he knew of her fear of lightening.
Carefully Duncan answered, "It was his quickening . . . that (pointing to the house) is the result of that."
"So every time we take someone's head, we get lightening coming at us?" Rhiannon asked with a look of disbelief.
"Rhiannon . . . it's really not like lightening although it looks like it. It is a kind of charge that is released from their soul. (swallowing hard) That is the quickening. When it hits you . . . you actually feel their soul enter into yours. (carefully choosing words) It is their quickening entering into you." Duncan tried to explain.
"But what hits you might call it a quickening . . . but its actually lightening that enters you, Duncan . . . ( a look of terror came into her eyes) I saw it and felt it. I watched as it hit every thing around me. It burned down the damn house Duncan . . . how can that not be lightening." Rhiannon debated.
"It just appears as lightening Rhiannon . . . (tracing the outline of her face) but what touched you and everything around you wasn't . . . it was his soul. With every strike of the quickening you receive . . . a piece of their soul . . . what you can't gather in . . . hits everything else." Duncan attempted to get her to understand.
"But it struck as lightening . . . it might be called a quickening . . . but still . . . in the end of things it is actually lightening. Nothing more or less. (slowly getting upset) Quickening is lightening. Period. I remember what it did . . . (shaking her head) . . . and you can't convince me that it was any thing else Duncan. I watch it strike the tree in front of me . . . as lightening . . . I watched the house catch on fire . . . that was lightening. (breathing heavier) It might be called a quickening, but when it hits you does it feels like lightening striking you? Does it?" Rhiannon demanded.
"Im not going to lie to you, Rhiannon . . . When the quickening strikes you (pausing for a moment) it does hurt. And maybe your right . . . maybe it is lightening . . . but understand that it's not the same lightening that comes in storms . . . What strikes you are their quickening . . . their soul . . . please and try to remember that . . . okay?" Duncan regretted the way he answered Rhiannon, the moment that he said it.
V
There was a long moment of silence as both them looked out at passed the water at the plantation. The destruction was massive. There wasn't an inch that wasn't touched by Victor's quickening. Rhiannon was beginning to realize that what was her worse nightmare was part of her immortality. She became distraught. Rhiannon realized what immortality really meant and she wanted no part of it. Unconsciously she stood up. Her fight or flight instincts were taking over. Rhiannon had a look of fear, which totally took Duncan by surprise.
"I can't do this Duncan . . . " Rhiannon started to run back toward the shack.
"Rhiannon!" Duncan yelled as he chased behind her.
Rhiannon had made it to the door when Duncan grabbed her. She turned around and tried to push him away, but he was not going to have any part of it. Duncan grabbed Rhiannon by her shoulders and put her up against the shack. So she couldn't move away from him.
"I won't do this Duncan . . . I can't." Rhiannon pleaded as she struggled against him.
"You don't have a choice Rhiannon!" Duncan replied being as direct as he could.
"Yes I do . . . I don't want any part of this. (trying to push him away) Take my head now Duncan . . . because I don't want to be a part of your damn game! If you don't take it someone else will. (struggling under his weight.) There is no way I am going to let lightening or quickening or whatever you call it strike me. If that is the way to get another's soul . . . Then you can have mine!" Rhiannon declared.
Duncan let go of her shoulders and reached down placing her face into his hand. Duncan looked deeply into Rhiannon eyes. All he could see is fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of not really understanding what her life now was. Fear of everything.
As gently as Duncan could speak, "I don't want your quickening Rhiannon . . . believe me . . . you can do this."
It was at that point Rhiannon broke. She slid down the side of the shack's door to the ground. Shock was settling in and settling in fast. Duncan knew he had to get her out of it or Rhiannon will never have the fight to defend herself. That she would never be any good to herself or anyone else. Kneeling down next to her, he places her face back into his hands making Rhiannon looks up at him.
"This is no good Rhiannon. (looking deep into her eyes) Don't fight all this now . . . That chance is long gone. (carefully taking his thumbs, he wipes her tears from her face.) It's here . . . your immortal and there is nothing you or I can do to change it." Duncan calmly said.
"I don't think I can do it . . . you don't understand Duncan (trying to looking away from him, but Duncan forced her to look at him) . . . I'm afraid of it." Rhiannon pleaded.
"Of what?" Duncan asked.
"Everything . . . every part of it. The quickening . . . Immortality . . . Everything." Rhiannon replied.
Duncan pulls her to him and kisses her softly on the forehead. Then slowly pulled Rhiannon away making her look at him.
"I'm here Rhiannon. I'm not going any where . . . I'm going to help you through it. In time, you will come to terms with all this. I will help you and guide you through all this." Duncan said trying to convince her.
Rhiannon quit struggling against him. When she did Duncan let her go. Instinctively Rhiannon places her arms around him. Duncan did same pulling her and then holding her as close to him as could.
"Do you promise, Duncan?" Rhiannon whispers.
"I promise." Duncan whispers back.
Rhiannon pulls back long enough to look into Duncan eyes. She could see that he meant every word of it. Then rewraps her arms around him, afraid that if she let go he would change his mind.
The red and orange of the sun were just coming over the mountains as Duncan helped Rhiannon back to her feet and took her back into the shack. All of the colors of the rising sun were coming in through the window placing a cast of light onto the table where he got her to sit at. Duncan acquires a blanket and places it around Rhiannon. Then he went to the stove and made her some tea. Duncan pulls a chair out and sits directly across from Rhiannon. As he does, Duncan decides that right now he couldn't treat Rhiannon with kid gloves. After that outburst she really left him no choice. If he did, she would be in a state of shock forever.
"Rhiannon, we have to talk. (looking deeply into her eyes) If we don't do it now . . . I really don't think we will ever have the chance to be as open to each other as we are right now." Duncan said as direct as he could.
Rhiannon shook her head okay. She knew deep in her heart what Duncan was saying was the truth.
Placing his hands into hers, "I want to know what happened to you . . . All that Victor had done . . . Rhiannon I do mean everything."
"I don't want to tell you . . . I let you down . . . that is all you need to know." Rhiannon protested as she gripped his hands hard.
"No Rhiannon, first of all you have to realize that . . . you didn't let me down. (letting go of one of her hands and tracing the outline of her face) Now. I want you to tell me what happened there . . . and why you are feeling as though as you let me down?" Duncan sought for an answer.
Taking a deep breath in, Rhiannon gradually let loose the grip she held with his other hand. She reluctantly begins tells Duncan everything. She left nothing out, from the mortal blow she took at the shack, to the strapping she took from Victor at the plantation. There was not one thing that Rhiannon left out. She knew that in order for them to continue with their relationship, she had to be truthful. Rhiannon had to explain to Duncan why and how she felt that she let him down.
After Rhiannon was done, there was a moment of quietness that clung to the air between them. Duncan took in every thing Rhiannon told him. It hurt him so very deeply. The pain she went through. The mind games that Victor played with her. How she knew the truth about them, but still was able to keep it together and not let Victor know that Rhiannon knew what they were. Duncan was amazed at how brave she had to be. He felt that Rhiannon had every right to fall apart now. After being under that type of pressure, was enough to give her the right to feel the way she was feeling about immortality.
Duncan began to realize that every nightmare that Rhiannon ever had came true last night along with every fear she ever had. It was easy for him to understand now why she felt as though she let him down even though it was all out of her hands. That in Rhiannon's mind, she not only let him down but she let herself down by letting Victor do what he did to her. Victor was more evil and sadistic. More so than Duncan could ever believe Victor was capable of being. There wasn't anything she could have done to stop him. Rhiannon did what she had to do to survive, nothing more. The faster Duncan could get her to come to terms with that. The quicker Rhiannon will come out of all this okay. He just had to figure out how.
"Rhiannon . . . what makes you think you could have done any thing differently than you did?" Duncan asked as bluntly as he could,
Rhiannon thought for a minute. Only one thing kept coming to mind.
"I could have fought harder (taking a deep breath) . . . been stronger." Rhiannon answered as she crossed her arms across her chest.
"Rhiannon, you did the best that you could do. There wasn't anything else you could have done . . . whether you realized it or not. (taking her arms down and then placing her hands into his) You couldn't let Victor know that you knew about immortality . . . You played the hand that Victor dealt. (rubbing his thumbs over her hands) You did good Rhiannon . . . You did what needed to be done. Believe it or not . . . Better than I would have done if I was in your situation. (reaching out and placing her face into his hands to make her look at him) There wasn't anything more or less you could have done to change that." Duncan said, trying to persuade her.
"Yes there was Duncan . . . (forcefully removing his hands from her face.) I could have fought harder. I shouldn't have let him beat me down . . . (looking him dead in his eyes) . . . Damn it Duncan. I should have just gone ahead and taken his head." Rhiannon responded half yelling at him.
"You fought as hard as you could . . . Look at this realistically . . . (grabbing her face to get her attention) . . . Rhiannon . . . you couldn't take his head even if you had an opportunity to do so. And from what you just told me there wasn't any opportunity to do so. (gently letting her face goes as he reaches out and takes her hands) You did what you had to do to survive from what Victor was doing to you, Rhiannon . . . most importantly it doesn't matter how you got away from Victor. The fact of the matter is that you did get away from him! That's all that counts." Duncan said bluntly.
"But if you didn't show up Duncan when you did . . . I" Rhiannon attempted to plead her case.
Duncan interrupts her before she can finish, "But I did . . . And if I didn't come in when I did . . . God knows what Victor would have done to you. Now he is gone. There is no way Victor can ever hurt you again. Never!"
"It was my fight Duncan, not yours. And I tried to fight him . . . the best I could and I couldn't even get that right." Rhiannon said as tears swells in her eyes.
Duncan reaches out and wipes the tear that was rolling down on her cheek. He could see that she felt that she should have done more. He had to try and get her to realize that Victor and he would have fought regardless of what was going on between them two. Duncan had to get Rhiannon to understand that the fight wasn't between them two but between him and Victor. That she was just the pawn. That Victor didn't want her head, but his. Just so that Victor could get him out of the way, so that he could continue to torture, control and be with Rhiannon.
"Listen to me. Rhiannon . . . This was never your fight. (choosing his words carefully) You had no idea what Victor was . . . and wouldn't have if I didn't tell you why he was doing what he was doing to your family and what you were. (taking a deep breath) It wouldn't have gotten this far . . . if I wouldn't have shown up when I did. You would have signed over the house and been done with it . . . But Victor did what he did to you because of me . . . because of us. He said that much when I faced him. (reaching out and lifting her head to look at him) Victor knew that he had completely lost you . . . and to get back at us he took your mortal soul." Duncan attempted explain.
Rhiannon shook her head no, "He had this planned all along . . . he said as much."
"Yes he had it planned . . . Victor had it planned the moment he saw us together. Believe that Rhiannon . . . If we wouldn't have gotten together . . . You would have signed the deed and it would have been done. This wouldn't have happened . . . I think he was going to wait until something happened to you and when you became immortal . . . then he would have come to you . . . and then in his twisted mind, Victor thought he could be a mentor you. Mold you into what he thought you should be in his eyes." Duncan said as got up from the chair
"I don't understand." Rhiannon was trying to comprehend what Duncan was saying to her.
"See . . . Victor knew the moment he made you an immortal, I would be coming for him. That was what he wanted along. (pacing the floor) What he did to you was for my benefit. Victor was showing me that in the end . . . no matter what happened between you and me that you were his no matter what. (coming back to the table and sitting back down) So see it was my fight along, not yours. The first time I felt him, confronted him . . . it became my fight. (Pausing) You were just prize that he dangled in front of me. In the end, Victor knew he had to fight me to keep you. It's all part of the game he was playing." Duncan said trying his best to reassure her that this had really nothing to do with her that she was truly just Victor's pawn.
Rhiannon just sat there and looked at him. Unsure whether to believe what he was telling her or not. Slowly Rhiannon began to understand it wasn't just about her. It may have been in the beginning. However, once Duncan came into her life it became about him. The jealous that Victor felt for her, over took all the other plans he had on his agenda. Victor knew deep in his heart that whatever chance he had with Rhiannon, left the moment when Duncan came down the trail that day. It was all beginning to make a little more sense to her. Victor had always held her life in his hands even after they went their separate ways. It was his plan all along to enslave her, to make him his. Duncan just pushed him to try and do it a little faster than he wanted.
In the end, that was what cost Victor his life. Now it was finished. Rhiannon was now immortal and Victor was dead. She had a new life ether way you look at. No matter if he had won or not. Now her life was her own. Victor could never torment her again. In some twisted way Rhiannon realized that she had won. For it was the only way it could have ended, her becoming immortal and him dead. No matter what she could have done, there was no way to change it. Rhiannon slowly rises up from the table and walks over to the window. She was looking at all the different colors in the sky as the sun rose higher into the sky. Duncan moved behind her. Carefully he placed his arms around her and pulled her close to him. There they stood and watched what was left of the night disappear. In its place was a beautiful sunrise. With a dawn of a new day, things appeared clearer to her.
However, Rhiannon did have more questions.
"Are still being open and honest to each other Duncan?" Rhiannon innocently asked.
"Yes." Duncan simply replied.
Rhiannon breathing in deeply, "What now . . . what is going to happen to me now?"
"You will live, love and play the game when you need to. (turning her around to face him) You'll go on . . . making what life you have at that moment the best life you can have."
"Do I have to walk away from everything now? Start a new life, or can I go on with this one until it has to end?" Rhiannon questioned.
The inquiry caused Duncan to smile. Rhiannon was coming out of it. The shock and disbelief were leaving. In its place was peace and acceptance.
"No . . . you can choose to live this life to it's fullest. (holding her head in his hand) Since no one knows what you have become, there is no sense of having to leave everything right now . . . Just know that one day you may have to." Duncan answered bluntly.
Rhiannon smiled as her mind processed what she just heard. Gently she laid her head onto Duncan's chest. The biggest thing that seemed to weigh heavy on her mind the most besides Duncan, was her family. Rhiannon knew deep in her heart, the only way she could get passed all of this was having her family still there. That's one thing she feared the most was the loss of her family.
"I was so worried about that. (holding onto Duncan tightly) I honestly thought that I would lose Mama and Ross . . . And with everything else I had lost tonight . . . that was the one thing I couldn't bare the thought of." Rhiannon smiled as she said it.
"Well you don't have to for now. Just know there will come a day you will have to . . . but that day Rhiannon . . . isn't now." Duncan replied as he stoked her hair.
"Good." Rhiannon simply said as she hugged him tightly.
VI
Rhiannon was finally coming to terms with why these things had happen to her. She knew in time everything will fade away. For now, Rhiannon had a new chance at life, regardless how it came to be. Moving away from the window, Duncan guided her outside and to the end of the porch. Sitting down on the bench they both watched as the sun peak itself between the two mountains ranges. Every thing around them seemed to have an air of freshness to it. The darkness that had fallen across every thing was finally lifted. The smoke was finally cleared the air along with the haze that it brought with it. It seemed for that moment all was right with the world. Even the birds were singing for the first time since yesterday. Duncan sat there and watched Rhiannon. Her face had finally begun to brighten up. There was a sense of peace that hadn't been there before. However, she did have a far away look in her eyes.
"What is it lass?" Duncan asked his most Scottish accent.
"Do you really want to know?" Rhiannon asked earnestly.
"Yes." Duncan answered.
"It's you." Rhiannon simply said
Duncan became confused, "What about me?"
Rhiannon paused before she would answer. Unsure if she should risk everything and ask it or if she really wanted to hear the answer.
"It's really about us." Rhiannon said.
"Okay . . . go on." Duncan said unsure where this was going.
"Is everything going to change between us . . . Now that I'm immortal?" Rhiannon inquired.
Duncan didn't really want to face this now. It wasn't a question he wanted to answer. He knew deep in his heart that some things were and has changed between them. It wasn't how he felt for Rhiannon. But now that she was immortal, other things will change. No matter how much they wanted it not to. Taking a deep lung full of air, Duncan began to answer the question he most didn't want to answer.
"Rhiannon, I don't really know how to answer that question . . . It would be a lie if I didn't say things between us hasn't changed. How I feel about you will never change. But . . . " Duncan attempted finish.
Rhiannon cuts him of, "But what . . . (a look of hurt came over her face) I'm damaged now, I'm no good to you anymore?"
"No . . . Besides that has nothing to do with what I'm trying to say. (he frowned angrily at her) When did I ever say to you that you were damaged . . . That I didn't want you anymore? Not once(forcing her to turn around in her seat to look at him)Now listen to what I have to say. Then after I'm finished . . . you can have your say." Duncan said furiously.
Rhiannon folded her arms across her chest, "Go on!"
"What I was going to say is that how I feel for you will never change . . . but now that you're immortal what we have will and have to change . . . (looking into her eyes) . . . You will have a different relationship with me, not just one of being a lover . . . but one of being a mentor and of a teacher. (reaching out to move a piece of hair from her face) That is until you learn the in and outs of the game and how to take care of your self. Then we can work on us . . . but until then you're the student . . . With some fringe benefits" Duncan said with a huge grin.
Rhiannon started to smile. She was feeling a little at ease. She was so afraid that he would not want her in anyway. That all she needed to hear.
"Is that all that is going to change? I can live with that." Rhiannon said as she uncrossing her arms.
"It's not going to be easy Rhiannon . . . Your not always going to like me." Duncan replied.
"I don't always like you now." Rhiannon said giggling.
Duncan couldn't help but also giggle. It was that deep southern accent that got him. No matter how mad she makes him, once he heard that southern draw it caused him to melt and forget what they were arguing or debating about.
Rhiannon turned to him in her seat and looked him square in the eyes, "I was afraid that you were going to tell me that it was over between us."
"I was never going to say that . . . it is that our relationship will be different that all. I just wanted you to understand that besides us being lovers, there is going to be much more. (tracing the outline of her face) There will be times that you will not always agree with me. Perhaps there will come a time when you will go out on your own." Duncan explained.
"Oh I doubt that will ever happen." Rhiannon said certain that it would never happen.
Duncan looked deep into her eyes, "One never knows . . . There is so much to learn Rhiannon, not just about the game but life itself. (sighing) Everything that you have ever known is never going to be the same now. Life for you is going to be different. Besides there is only so much I can teach you . . . the rest you have to learn for yourself." Duncan said.
"I realize all of that Duncan. I realized that when you took Victor's head. I just wanted to make sure that out of all this . . . because of my immortality, I wasn't going to lose you. Now that I know that isn't true, I can deal with all this (frowning) It was the thought of losing you that was tearing me up." Rhiannon replied.
Duncan reached out and placed his hand on her cheek, "Just know one thing."
"What is that?" Rhiannon asked as she kissed the palm of his hand.
"I will always be there for you. Rhiannon . . . This I promise to you." Duncan said as he leaning over he kisses her. It wasn't a long deep kiss, just one of utter tenderness.
"That is all I can ask." Rhiannon said as she returned the kiss.
They sat there for a while longer. Duncan held Rhiannon tight in his arms, hoping that she understood every thing that he told her. It wasn't going to be easy for her or for him. To teach Rhiannon about immortality was one thing. However, to live together as immortals is another. Duncan wasn't going to push the issue anymore. In time, Rhiannon will see for herself what he was trying to say. In Duncan's heart, he knew that the time wasn't right to try to explain everything. She still was coming out of being in shock. One day soon, Rhiannon will understand for herself what he was trying to say.
Duncan knew that right now, all of this had an air of romance to it and soon enough reality will settle in. For now, he was going to let Rhiannon have her fantasy. She deserved that much. After all, what she has known was gone. Duncan changed all that when he told her about her immortality. Now that she is immortal, Rhiannon's life will always be in a state of chaos. Right now, Duncan was content in letting Rhiannon have the small part of peace that she craved. With the morning sun hovering brightly in the sky, it was time to go. Rhiannon didn't need the comfort of holy ground anymore. It was time to go home to start the life she was meant to live. Duncan stood up and stretched. Looking down at Rhiannon, he reaches for her hand.
"It's time to go home. You need to rest and I need some sleep." Duncan tiredly said.
Placing her hand into his, Rhiannon stood up. Taking one last look at Victor's home, "What was it like . . . to take his quickening?"
The question caused Duncan to pause. He was unsure how to answer.
"All I can say is that Victor's quickening was one that was powerful. It destroyed everything in its path. . . . like his life did." Duncan simply said
Rhiannon stood there shaking her head in agreement. Knowing that what he said was true. Duncan pulled her close to him. He wanted to assure Rhiannon that she was indeed safe.
Duncan softly replied as he held her tightly, "Victor was very tormented soul. In return he tormented everything he could touch. I could feel that when he entered me . . . But what surprised me the most was, the passion Victor felt for you. (looking down into her deep brown eyes) That was the only knowledge that I could keep . . . the rest I had to let go. His rage and his hate destroyed everything else."
She stood there looking back into his eyes. Windows to your soul. Knowing that what Duncan said was the truth. In some weird way, it comforted her.
"I can believe that . . . Now at least he is in peace." Rhiannon simply said.
It was ending to the beginning of the rest of Rhiannon's life. She was now completely free. Free to do or be whatever her choosing is. Immortally was a new chance at life. In the end, it was the last gift Victor could have given her, not the curse that it could be. Best of all Rhiannon had Duncan. He was someone to trust, someone to count on and best of all someone to love her for her. Putting their arms around each other, they headed toward the house. A new chapter in both their lives was just beginning. Both finally accepting what the game truly was. Most of all, accepting what changes that had come into their lives.
Duncan was now part of the game. With new responsibilities, came new chances at life. Life that until now he thought he could never be apart of again. Whether or not he was pushed into it, in the end Duncan joined the game on his terms. In the process, he found someone to love, to hold on to. Who above all restored his faith in himself. It was something that Duncan thought was lost and never to get back. Now it was time to start living again, both of them. As for everything else, in time it will come together. One could only hope.
For in the end . . . there can only be one.
The end.