Part 1 Started: 09/01/06

Part 1 Finished: 11/01/06

Author's Note Disclaimer: I do not own the characters from Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman. The rights to those characters and to the show belong to the creators of the show, to CBS, The Sullivan Company and to A&E.

This story takes place during and after "A Washington Affair" but I have slightly changed the episode ending for my own writing needs.

The Letter

Part 1 – The Repercussions

By Rachel

As Michaela Quinn closed the heavy door of her hotel room, she leaned up against it and allowed herself to breathe a sigh of relief. With the knowledge that her children would now be safe, she could let one small piece of her mind rest.

The thought of them made her heart leap because she knew how deeply she would miss them. How deeply she already missed them. But no they were safer where they were; tucked safely onto a train on their way home.

Oh Home, how sweet that word sounded as it echoed in her head. It was like music in springtime. Oh how she wished that she was going with them but she couldn't allow herself to be sidetracked by doubt or self-pity

No. She had a goal. She had a plan. She couldn't possibly think of home now; not when Sully needed her to be strong and brave.

As she stood against the wooden door, she let herself catch her breath. In less than half an hour Eli would be returning for her. Once that happened, the escape plan would be triggered and there would be no turning back. The rescue of her beloved Sully would be set in motion, the ultimate consequences uncertain, though the danger ever looming.

What a terrible series of misunderstandings there had been to arrive at this place.

It all began with the overheard threat to the Presidents life, and swiftly continued out of control with the omitted names from the Indian Affairs list, which in turn had caused a few too many people in high places to notice their party. And all of this had been rounded off by Sully's arrest for desertion. She had a feeling that whoever was behind the desertion charge was also behind the threat to the President's life.

She had left the initial planning to General Parker, seeing as knew better than her what their possibilities were. Though, given his careful decisions, she wondered what would happen if they were successful. At this point she refused to think about what would happen if they failed. No, now she had to consider what the next step would be if this plan worked.

She decided that their first action after securing their safety would be discovering who was behind Sully's imprisonment and how that connected to the threats against both President Grant and the Indians. Knowing the depth of Sully's kindness, the honourable decency that coursed through his veins, she knew that they would not be leaving Washington until everyone was save, not just him.

However before any of this could start she had to get ready. She had to focus!

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General Eli Parker ensured that the children were safely on board the train and that they weren't about to jump off as soon as his back was turned. Once he was satisfied he made is way back to meet Dr Quinn, or Michaela as she insisted that he call her.

Matthew, Colleen and Brian sat back begrudgingly feeling like they were letting Sully down by going home, they sighed heavily, almost admitting defeat. The train suddenly lurched forward as it moved out of its sidings. Realising that there was nothing that they could do now, the children settled back in their seats and prepared themselves for the long journey back to Colorado Springs. To home!

Brian let out a yawn and ever the concerned sister, Colleen, realised how late it was. She suggested to her little brother that he take a nap. Reluctantly, Brian folded his jacket up, pushed it against the window and promptly used it as a pillow. Closing his eyes he fell asleep within minutes.

However sleep was not going to come as easily to Matthew or Colleen who both knew, although wouldn't verbally admit, that something was very wrong.

Reaching into his jacket pocket Matthew pulled out the letter that his Ma had given him just before they left. She had left strict instructions that they weren't to open it and to give it to Miss Dorothywhen they arrived home.

Matthew held it firmly for what seemed like ages, almost trying to convince himself of the validity of what he was contemplating. Knowing what he had to do but reluctant nonetheless he opened it………and silently read:

Dear Dorothy

If you are reading this then Sully and I are dead.

As you may recall the purpose of our visit was to ensure the right appointments for the Indian Agents of the Colorado Territory. This we succeeded in achieving.

However just as we were about to depart to come home Sully was arrested for desertion.

He is scheduled for execution at dawn tomorrow!

I have to get him out Dorothy I just have to!

General Parker and I intend on breaking Sully out of prison tonight. If by some miracle that we don't get shot in the process we will be running for our lives. We need help Dorothy.

Cloud Dancing left prior to this as yet I am unsure of his reasons for departing early but I believe that he may have been returning straight back to Colorado Springs.

I know that you haven't always understood my love for helping the Cheyenne but I beg you to get word to Cloud Dancing . His brother and I desperately need his guidance and prayers.

I have sent the children home as it is just not safe here and I entrust them into your care, as you are the closest thing I have to family in Colorado Springs and I know that they will be well cared for.

Please tell them that we love them dearly and will miss them terribly.

Thank you.

Your dear friend,

Michaela.

Releasing the breath that he hadn't realised he'd been holding, he handed the letter to Colleen and said, with absolutely no doubt or room for question in his voice, "We'll trade our tickets in at the next station. We're goin back."

Colleen accepted that her brother was not going to listen to any arguing but she was still curious about his sudden change of heart, so opening the folded piece of paper that lay on her lap she too read the letter. Gasping at the first lines, she handed it back to Matthew and nodded her agreement.

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Michaela just couldn't settle herself. She had resorted to pacing in an effort to keep her mind off the predicament that they were all in. It wasn't working! She was so anxious to get underway that she felt that she was going to be sick! Suddenly there was a knock at the door. Afraid that the government authorities had discovered them she hid.

When no one answered Eli knocked again and gently pushed the door open saying "Dr Quinn…Michaela…"

Jumping up from her hiding spot, relief clearly written on her face Michaela said, "Oh Eli, it's you, I thought that we had been found out."

Equally relieved to see her safe Eli said, "You ready to go? We haven't got much time."

With a nod, as if to say Yes more than ready, Michaela gathered her things together the two left the room leaving it just as they had found it when Michaela had arrived a week before.

Eli had already briefed Michaela on the plan but just to make sure that she knew what they were doing he went over it again. "When we get to the war office we change into the prison officers clothes and then you drive the transport wagon to the prison."

"Yes Eli, I know the plan and yes I'll be ok driving it."

Eli then realised that he was probably going over the plan more for his own sake more than hers but he continued anyway. "When Sully comes out, he will probably want to help. He will have worked out what's going on….let him."

"But what if he gets shot?" Michaela questioned with concern hanging over each word. "I couldn't live with that"

"He'll be fine, don't worry. Once we get him in the transport wagon, don't look back just go as fast as you can."

"What about you?"

"Don't worry I'll be there."

"We will dump the wagon at Murder Bay and then I'll meet you back at the records office, I'll send word don't worry."

She maintained a confident façade, so that her fear could not consume her. "As I said before Eli, I know the plan so stop worrying about me."

"Are you absolutely sure that you want to do this Michaela? This is your last chance to back out. There is no certainty that we will succeed and there is no assurance that we won't be hurt or worse. Are you prepared for that?"

Michaela only nodded her head to let him know that she was ready for whatever may come. She had justified every danger in her mind. It was all worth it because without Sully there was every guarantee that her heart would be broken.

"I wouldn't blame you if you did back out," he said, in an attempt to persuade her. "You have the children after all." Eli was hoping that she would see reason when the children were mentioned, but he really didn't know Michaela Quinn.

"Eli, Sully and I have so much history and so much to live for. We can't live without each other. He is almost like the air I breathe. When I'm not with him, I feel dead inside. It's slowly killing me knowing that we're apart and he may die. I have to do this. I have to! He is my life!"

Eli didn't think that he had ever heard such a declaration of true love in his life, he was so moved by the tears he could see in Michaela's eyes. "I think that I can understand a little more now Michaela, he really is a lucky man to have someone like you in his life, someone who is willing to die to save him."

"Thank you Eli, from both of us."

With that said they set into action for what was going to be a very long, hard, and potentially dangerous night but hopefully a fruitful one.

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Matthew and Colleen had been discussing their plans when Brian stirred.

He looked at his brother and sister and immediately sensed that something was going on.

"What's up?"

"Nothing" was Matthew and Colleen's very quick reply.

Noticing the letter in Colleen's hand Brian wasn't convinced by their quick answer so he tried again "Ain't that Ma's letter? You opened it!"

Realising that their inquisitive little brother was not going to be bought of with a nothing Matthew decided to tell Brian the finer points of the letter and their plans.

"Ma's in trouble Brian, she needs us."

Brian sat there taking in the information that Matthew had just relayed, he then said "What kind of trouble."

"What kinda trouble does Ma normally get into?" was Matthew's smart-aleck reply.

Seeing Matthew's point and with a small grin on his face Brian said "So what we doing about it."

Colleen took the lead, and holding one of Brian's hands in hers she said, "We are trading our tickets in at the next station and going back to Ma and Sully."

Satisfied at that answer Brian said, "Ok, but maybe we should send word when we change trains?"

Matthew sat there quietly and listened to Brian's suggestion, agreeing that it might be wise in case something happened he said "Ok Brian, we'll send a telegram to Dorothy and ask her to somehow get word to Cloud Dancing so he knows what is going on."

Having made their decision to go against their mother's wishes and return to Washington but to send word at Roanoke, Virginia all three of the children began to relax for the first time since Sully had been arrested.

Matthew knew that there was still a long way to go before they reached Roanoke, and they could start to think about going back to their Ma.

Silence had filled the cabin. Brian once again showed signs of tiredness and was told to try and get some sleep. Closing his eyes he thought of happier times and of his home and Pup. It wasn't long before his thoughts turned into dreams and he was once again sound asleep.

Matthew had placed his hat over his eyes in an attempt to try and get some sleep himself but he knew that it would be impossible, so he just rested his eyes and tried to think positive thoughts.

Colleen stared out of the window. While still clutching the letter in her hand her thoughts turned to Sully and what he had done that could be so terrible that he wouldn't even tell Dr. Mike. She then pondered on what had made him join up in the first place. Not being able to come up with a reasonable answer, she wondered if Matthew knew. "Matthew?" Colleen said in a soft voice so as not to wake Brian.

"Mmm…what is it?"

"Oh I was just wondering if you knew why Sully joined the army and why he never talked about it. I mean we've known Sully for ages now and we never knew that he was in the army. What do you suppose he did that would make him want to hide it for this long?"

"I don't know for sure but I reckon he joined up after Abigail died. I know he was lost and just wanted to run so I guess he wanted to lose himself in the war but it didn't really work out like that."

"As for what he did…I guess we'll never know unless Ma tells us, which I doubt she will. But none of this should change how we feel about him Colleen, he still loves Ma and us and we're still going to be a family."

"Yes I know that Matthew, I still love him as well I guess I just wanted to know that's all."

"Well now you know can we get some sleep?"

"Sure thing and thanks."

With that the talking ceased and all that could be heard was the clackety-clack from the train as it sped over the rails towards Roanoke, Virginia.

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The sound of the city square clock striking midnight was the only sound that could be heard for miles around. That was until the prison gates creaked open and a guard led a shackled Sully out to the waiting transport wagon. Sully took one look at the transfer officer and knew instinctively that it was Parker.

Not really knowing what was going on but suspecting that Michaela had arranged something Sully took his chance, as he was loaded into the wagon, he kicked one of the guards.

This didn't surprise Eli; in fact he had almost expected it! As soon as it happened he shouted to Michaela "GO!"

With a sharp crack of the reins Michaela deftly steered the cumbersome wagon at lightning speed through the dark streets of the nation's capital.

Arriving at the designated detachment point, Murder Bay, Eli helped Michaela down and between them assisted Sully into the safety of one of the shacks.

Michaela had brought Sully here to rest because she trusted these poor people. It seemed to Michaela that the whole world had forgotten them, but she refused to ignore their need. She knew that her previous kindness would help them now.

They had previously visited Murder Bay with Cloud Dancing when they had first arrived and she had treated some of the sick children.

Cloud Dancing …. Oh how I wish that he were here and not safe at home. ….He would know what to do …He would know where to go.

These exasperating thoughts ran uncontrolled through Michaela's mind. She couldn't allow herself to become bogged down with thoughts of home and those that she loved. She had to tend to Sully. She had to get him free from his restraints before anything else. So turning to the task in hand she attracted the attention of an ironmonger named Isaiah and asked if he could give them a hand.

"Sure Ma'am," was the reply and within five minutes he had Sully free.

Feeling that his presence was no longer needed and that he was intruding Isaiah left quietly, leaving Michaela and Sully alone for the first time in days.

Turning to Michaela and gently stroking her cheek with one hand and holding her hand with the other Sully said "Oh Michaela, why didn't ya go home? You coulda been killed."

Before she had a chance to answer, Sully pulled her into a fierce embrace that spoke as much of his relief as his love for her. Slowly pulling back, Michaela prepared to answer but Sully seized her lips with his in such a passionate kiss that both were left breathless.

Momentarily stunned by Sully's overly public display of passion Michaela just stood there.

She soon realised that Sully's actions were more than likely a result of the sudden change in circumstances as much as anything. After all, he thought that he was never going to see her again, and that kind of shock would be enough to make anyone act the way that Sully just had.

Michaela placed a finger lovingly on his lips and said, "I couldn't leave you. I would die for you, don't you know that. You're free now and that's all that matters, we can talk later."

Before resuming their previous activities there were "I love you's" said on both sides. Then all talking ceased for a little while and the conversation of the heart of two soul mates started as they kissed and caressed each other, all worries were gone.

No one existed except these two lovers in their moment of passion. Until there was a tap on the door and Isaiah's wife Gabriel said, "Lady doctor, soldiers comin'."

Giving Michaela one last quick kiss Sully grabbed hold of one of her hands and said, "Don't stop running till I tell ya to."

With that they took off like cheetahs being hunted. They had to get away. They had to get to the rendezvous point to meet Eli but how?

Just as Michaela was beginning to think that they had got this far for nothing Gabriel saved them again by opening a side passage to the back of Murder Bay.

They were safe yet again. Michaela didn't know how much more of this she could take. But she knew that they had to keep going. They had to make it to meet Eli.

Gabriel brought some clothes for Sully so he would look a little less inconspicuous. She also brought two horses to aid their escape.

With a nod of thanks for all their help Michaela and Sully went on their way, staying off the main street as much as possible and just hoping to arrive in time to help the President.

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As the train pulled in the children prepared to disembark and locate the ticket office.

Just as Matthew stepped down he glanced up at the station clock, which read three in the morning. Sighing heavily, he realised that even if they got the next train back to Washington they wouldn't be there until half past five. Would this be too late?

He didn't know, but he couldn't do anything about the speed of a steam train or the time differences that the country had. He just had to hope that they would be in time. They had to be.

Though tired and worried, he was brought back to the present by hearing Brian's question.

"Are ya sure that we're doing the right thing Matthew?" was Brian's immediate reaction upon placing his feet on the platform.

"Brian we discussed this. We agreed that Ma needed us and that we were going back."

"I know Matthew but I'm just worried that Ma'll be mad."

Knowing that his brother was probably right caused Matthew to chuckle softly to himself. They all knew what a temper Michaela Quinn had, but her heart was always in the right place.

"She probably will be little brother but she'll realise that we only came back because we wanted to help. She'll get over it."

Listening to her brothers' fairly inane discussion did not amuse Colleen, as she knew that time was their enemy and they had to find a telegraph office and the ticket office before the last train left.

Reaching into her purse she held the letter gently but firmly, almost in an attempt to remind and reassure her of what they were doing and the validity of it.

Realising that her brothers were still, strangely, in a world of their own, to her it seemed like they were avoiding getting on the train. She had to snap them out of this.

"Matthew?" receiving no response she tried a little louder "Matthew!"

Shocked by his sister's outburst Matthew turned around sharply and said "Yes Colleen what is it?"

"We need to get moving, we have to exchange these tickets and send that telegram."

Appreciating that his sister was right and that if they didn't get a move on they wouldn't be able to get back in time to do anything Matthew said, "Ok let's go and sort the tickets out first."

Finding the ticket booth was easy enough but there were a few problems with exchanging them.

Having finally persuaded the seller that this was an emergency and they had to get back to Washington today the children breathed a sigh of relief when the seller handed them fresh ones.

They were on their way. Whether they were ready or not they couldn't say but they were going back to their Ma and that was that. The next job was to send the telegram to Dorothy.

Marching at full stride Matthew looked like a man on a mission with Brian and Colleen trailing along behind like lost cubs following their father. It could have been an amusing site if it hadn't been for the grave circumstances that led them to be there in the first place.

Locating the telegraph office Matthew said, "What are we going to say?" He couldn't believe that they hadn't actually thought about this.

It suddenly struck all of them that if they sent a telegram at all then it would be obvious that they had read their Ma's letter. They had to think and fast.

Finally deciding that the easier solution, but not the most painless one, would be to just own up at a later date Matthew dictated the following to the telegraph officer:

To, Miss Dorothy Jennings, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Miss Dorothy,

Ma and Sully in grave danger… STOP… Alert Cloud Dancing… STOP… Going back to Washington on next train… STOP…Will arrive by five thirty…STOP… Need prayers and guidance… STOP… Matthew.

Having read it back and asked Colleen and Brian for their approval he sent it. It was done now and there wasn't anything that they could do about it. Matthew then realised that they had to get on the train and quickly. So picking Brian up they sprinted down the platform and just made it before it pulled out of the station. That was too close.

Finding a sectioned off area they sat down and breathed a sigh of relief. They had done it. They were going back to Washington, to what they didn't know but they were going back to their Ma.

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Back in Colorado Springs the town was beginning to wonder if Dr Mike was ever coming back. She seemed to have been gone for ages, when in actual fact it was only a week.

There hadn't been any emergencies of any description, which was lucky for Jake who was caring for the town in her absence it had been really quiet. Almost too quiet he thought to himself as he wandered over towards the Gold Nuggett. Mind you it was two in the morning. Most people would be sensibly tucked up in bed Jake mused to himself.

Glancing across the street he could see a light on in the telegraph office and it was obvious by the speed that Horace was moving that an urgent telegram had just come in. However Jake had to laugh to himself at the sight of Horace in his stripped nightshirt and bed cap; he had clearly just got up.

Deciding that he really couldn't be bothered finding out what was going on Jake turned around and went into the saloon for some gaming and socialising.

However just as he was about to step up onto the walkway he was almost knocked over by Horace running out of his office.

"Look where ya goin ya clown." Was Jake's impertinent statement but Horace was on a mission. Ever the diligent, official operator that he was he just turned around quickly, eyed Jake and said in his most upper crust voice "Out of the way got an urgent telegram."

Jake realised that hanging about the street wasn't going to help anyone so he went back to what he was proposing on doing, drinking.

Taking the telegram in his hand Horace went over to the store. Fearing that he may wake Loren who is cantankerous at the best of times didn't really fill Horace with a great deal of confidence but he had a job to do so knocking softly at first he said "Miss Dorothy it's Horace"

Hearing movement Horace hoped that it wasn't Loren; he breathed a sigh of relief as he saw Miss Dorothy descending the stairs and coming to the door looking half asleep.

"What is it Horace? I was in bed."

Holding out the telegram to Dorothy Horace said, "Sorry Miss Dorothy but this just come for ya, it's urgent."

Dorothy thanked Horace, took the telegram and went back upstairs to read it.

Placing her lamp on the bedside table Dorothy sat on the edge of the bed and looked at the telegram, wondering who would be sending her something that was clearly urgent.

Turning the paper over, she read the contents silently:

Miss Dorothy,

Ma and Sully in grave danger… STOP… Alert Cloud Dancing… STOP… Going back to Washington on next train … STOP… Will arrive by five thirty… STOP… Need prayers and guidance… STOP… Matthew.

"Oh Gosh Michaela" was her shocked, frightened statement to herself. She knew that she was the only one who could help her dear, dear friend. And help she intended to do right away.

Dressing quickly but efficiently she placed the telegram in her coat pocket and retuned to the lower floor of the store. Grabbing some supplies, and leaving a note for Loren she silently left.

Entering the livery she lit a gas-lamp so she could see her way to Charlie's stall. Quickly tacking her up and throwing the supplies over her saddle, as she was about to mount she was suddenly reminded of the true request of the telegram. Matthew hadn't actually asked that she was to come. He had specifically asked for Cloud Dancing to be told.

Dorothy held Charlie's reins firm because by now the horse was getting skittish and if horses could talk it would probably be asking "When are we going?."

Leading Charlie out onto the main street Dorothy was still trying to decide what she should do. Michaela, Sully and the children were the only ones who ever spent any time with the Indians and quite frankly half the time she really couldn't work out why. Deciding that she had to go against her better wishes because this was her best friend life at stake. She had to get Cloud Dancing but first she would get Horace to send a telegram back to Washington, hoping that it would get to Matthew.

Loosely tying Charlie up Dorothy knocked on the office door and seeing a very grumpy Horace opening up Dorothy explained quickly what had happened and that she needed to reply as quickly as possible.

Horace said, "Ok what do you want to say?"

Dictating as she thought Dorothy said,

"To Matthew Cooper, Washington Station, Washington DC.

Got telegram…STOP…On way with Cloud Dancing…STOP…Will be there soon…STOP…Take care and thanks…STOP…Dorothy."

Handing over a quarter to Horace, who promptly handed it back saying, "That's ok Miss Dorothy this is for Dr Mike."

Nodding in appreciation Dorothy returned to Charlie and swallowing her pride sped off towards the reservation and Cloud Dancing.

As she neared the reservation Dorothy was surprised to see Cloud Dancing already mounted up apparently waiting for her.

"Ah-ho Dorothy, the Spirits told me that you would be coming. There is news from Dr Mike?"

"It is terrible news Cloud Dancing. Matthew sent word that their lives are at stake. We must go to them. We must!"

"Tell me what has happened. The spirits speak of danger but I need to know more but I agree that we should leave immediately."

"I will tell you on the way. Let's go."

So no sooner had she arrived, Dorothy and Cloud Dancing were departing for Denver where they would get the train to Washington.

During the ride Dorothy filled Cloud Dancing in on the telegram that Matthew had sent and informed him of the children's' intentions of returning to Washington to help their Ma.

Cloud Dancing had been silent throughout all of this, deeply moved by the plight of his brother and his fiancée. He resolved to be of any help that he could but he knew that both he and Dorothy had a long journey ahead of them if they were going to reach Washington as soon as they could.

Shortly before six in the morning they arrived at Denver. Having been travelling all night in one way or another they were relieved to be able to actually get some sleep, if that was possible. They were on the final leg of the journey. In two hours they would be in Washington and would be able to finally see Sully and Michaela face to face. He just hoped that they would be in time.

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As Michaela and Sully sat across the table from Eli scanning through hundreds of soldiers records Michaela glanced at the clock on the wall. Two in the morning, it was no wonder that she was beginning to feel tired and she suspected that Sully knew it but wouldn't say anything.

Glancing across at him she wondered what he was thinking about. Did he doubt that they would find the senator responsible, did he doubt her love for him. No she definitely didn't think that was worth the time it took to form the sentence. It had been a testament to her love for him that had resorted in the prison break.

It suddenly dawned on her that not only was Sully a fugitive, but she was as well.

The though chilled her to the bone. During it all, she had considered death, but never a fugitive status. All her thoughts concentrated on getting Sully free.

What would become of her?

What would happen to her….no their children?

Would she ever get out of this mess?

Under any other normal circumstance she would never have allowed such negative thoughts to enter her head, much less stay there. However, this wasn't a normal day or evening.

She had witnessed her beloved Sully being torn away from her right in front of the children.

She had witnessed hearing his sentence. No his execution.

She had sent her children home, she felt so alone, so afraid and yet Sully was here, beside her.

What was wrong with her? Why was she allowing herself to feel so desperate?

They had got out of tough situations before and she knew that they would get out of this one and be reunited with the children.

She just had to have faith. Faith in God and faith in their love that they could survive this!

She felt tears running down her cheeks, tears that she hadn't even noticed and now couldn't stop much less hide from Sully.

Sully at that precise moment looked up from his pile of papers and noticed for the first time that his "heartsong" was crying and looked so lost and unsure. He didn't know what to do for the best. Should he go to her, should he just carefully watch her. While debating with himself his mind wandered much like Michaela's had previously.

All of this was his fault. He did this to her, …to them.

His own selfish pride had stopped him telling her about his time in the army and now that foolish arrogance had resulted in him being arrested and Michaela turning into a fugitive to save him.

How was he ever going to forgive himself?… No, how was she ever going to forgive him?…He had ruined everything because he wouldn't let her into his past. He hated himself and he wouldn't blame Michaela if she hated him too, but he doubted that, she wasn't capable of hate, only love.

How could she still love him after all this?

Although thinking about it she clearly did otherwise she wouldn't have done what she had…would she?

No, she had said that she would die for him. Yes, she loved him. That much was certain.

Deciding that self-reproachful talk wasn't going to help either of them now he went over to her and just gave her a soft kiss on the top of her head, as if to say it's gonna be alright, I love ya.

Looking up from his own pile of papers Eli wondered why it had gone so quiet, and then he realised why. The undaunted doctor, who he had very quickly grown to admire was crying and her betrothed was showing her the same love and support that she had previously spoken of before the break out. There was no doubt in Eli's mind that what they had done in breaking Sully out had definitely the right thing to do.

There really was something special. Something almost unique about these two and he really hoped, with his whole heart, that they could sort this mess out and have the future that they so obviously deserved.

Michaela spotted something in one of her files. There it was. The very document they had spent the last hour looking for. She had it. She had the proof of Sully's innocence right there in her hand.

Suddenly she started shaking, she couldn't' control all of the emotions that were coursing through herrelief, fear, happiness, worry, elation. They were all so jumbled up that all she could bring herself to say was "It's hereIt's here."

Both Sully and Eli immediately reached for the paper that Michaela was waving in the air. However Michaela held it firmly and read aloud " June 20th 1863…Lieutenant Byron Sully is ordered to report…signed Colonel George Steward."

Realising that the very person that they had been trying to track down was one of the very people that the President trusted the most spurred all of them into action. They needed to get to the White House and quickly.

Leaving the files strewn across the table Michaela grabbed the vital document and followed Sully and Eli out onto the street

Reaching the street first, Eli hailed a handsome cab and hurriedly helped Michaela and Sully in. Instructing the driver to go to the White House without delay, they took off at a full gallop.

The discussions on the way were ones of how do we get in? And what do we do when we get there? Michaela remembered the secret passage that Brian had shown her and said to Sully "It's ok I know a way that we can get in unseen if Eli can distract the guards we should be fine."

Sully was surprised but knew better than to question his brave heartsong so he remained silent and just took Michaela's hand and gave it a gentle reassuring squeeze. Eli agreed to do his best to buy them some time.

As they approached the front gates of the White House Sully could sense Michaela's apprehension but he knew she would be fine once they were inside. Again he had to trust her, and know that she knew where to go.

He really was feeling less and less worthy of Michaela's time and affection as this whole affair progressed. He knew, as did Michaela that there was a need to talk and heal after this had ended.

The thought didn't really thrill him, not being a great conversationalist, but he was reminded that it was his lack of talking that had resulted in this to begin with so he owed it to Michaela to do what ever it took to repair the harm that he had caused.

He knew that Michaela wouldn't hold this against him, against them, but Sully still felt that he had to make the first move, which was going to be tough!

Eli's nudge on his arm brought Sully back to the present and when Eli said "We're here but before I go I just want to thank you Michaela…Sully for showing me that the law isn't always just. I sincerely wish you both all the happiness in the future and Good Luck."

Sully was speechless but what Michaela said next was what was in his heart as well. "It is I who should thank you. Your bravery has given me a second chance of love, a second chance of happiness with the man I love" reaching for Sully's hand she continued "and for that I will always be grateful and remember you. Good luck Eli and God speed." With that the cab came to a halt and they went their separate ways. Eli to his uncertain future. Sully and Michaela to change theirs.

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As Matthew looked out of the window he realised that they were approaching Washington, again.

The sky had taken on a brilliance that he didn't think he had ever seen before. As the sun made its path through the remaining dark clouds of night Matthew wondered if the colours it was displaying were some kind of omen, good or bad, for today. He hoped that they were and that they would return home, together, as a family once again.

Bringing his thoughts back to the present he realised that they hadn't actually thought through this part of their journey at all. They really had no idea where to even begin to start looking for Michaela.

Waking Colleen and Brian from their slumbers Matthew said, "We're here. Got to get moving."

Brian looked at Matthew and Colleen and wondered what was going through their minds. Deciding that a conversation needed to be started he said, to no one in particular "What are we doing now, then?"

"I think that we should start at the senate and see if we can pick up anything," was Colleen's answer, but the boys didn't look convinced. "If we go asking questions we're bound to arose suspicion. No we need to be careful Colleen, we don't know what's happened since we've been gone."

Seeing her brother's point Colleen said, "Ok but where do you think we should start then?"

Brian, who had been quietly listening to this exchange suddenly, had a thought, The White House. "I know where to go," was Brian's sudden outburst. Colleen and Matthew were so stunned that they just stopped and looked at him. Sensing the confusion in his siblings Brian explained, "The White House."

Still not registering what Brian was talking about made Matthew say, "Now ain't the time for playing with friends Brian. We've got to help Ma."

"Don't ya see?" Confusion still reigned so taking a defeated breath Brian began to explain, hoping the penny would drop. "The President is in danger right?…Sully was arrested because he spoke up, right?…So they've gone to the White House to help the President."

Amazed that they hadn't thought that clearly annoyed Colleen and Matthew, but they had to give credit where credit was due so Matthew said, "Well done little brother I reckon you're right." Now they had to get to the White House and fast.

Just as they were leaving the station to hail a cab something caught Matthew's eye. He could have sworn that he just heard someone shout his name. There it was again, ye definitely his name.

Turning to face the sound he was caught by surprise as a telegraph operator handed him a telegram.

There was no doubt that confusion was the recipe for today.

Opening it up and reading the contents aloud, "To Matthew Cooper, Washington Station, Washington DC.

Got telegram…STOP…On way with Cloud Dancing…STOP…Will be there soon…STOP…Take care and thanks…STOP…Dorothy."

Disbelief was quickly followed by elation and Colleen was the first to put voice to everyone's thoughts when she screamed, "They got it! Their coming!"

Turning to Matthew she asked, in a calmer voice "Does it say when, have we got to wait for them to get here before we go to Ma?"

Reading the telegram again to himself Matthew replied "No I guess we do it alone. They'll be here soon that's all it says."

With the knowledge that what they had done in disregarding their mother's request had paid off and their friends would be here by early afternoon filled the children with hope that all was not lost.

However the task for now was to get to the White House as quickly as possible, so continuing onto the street Matthew hailed a handsome cab and told the driver their destination and requested that he go as fast as he was able, it was a matter of life and death.

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As Eli got out of one side of their carriage he caused enough of a distraction for Sully and Michaela to get out of the other side without being spotted.

Taking Sully's hand firmly in hers she led towards the passage way and reaching it Michaela gave the secret doorway a gentle but firm push and then proceeded to enter beckoning Sully to follow her.

With a large amount of reluctance he did as she bid and followed her through the dark, dank corridor.

After what seemed like an eternity, or that's what Sully thought they arrived at the entrance to the President's office. Again with a firm shove the door opened and they were able to stand and breathe anew.

As time was of the essence Sully grabbed Michaela's hand in his they took off and ran down to the President's office, hoping that they were going to be in time.

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Throughout the journey to Washington Cloud Dancing had remained passive, quietly listening to the Spirits. He had known about this secret that his brother had, and had always tried to convince him to talk to Michaela about it. It was after all not Sully's fault that he'd been used and seen as an easy target for a dirty game the politicians were playing.

He suspected that Sully didn't truly forgive himself for what had happened and knowing Sully as he did Cloud Dancing also knew that he would assume that Michaela wouldn't be able to forgive, much less love, him for what he'd done. Sully would see his previous life as despicable and his present one as being built on a lie.

Cloud Dancing knew that the only person that could help Sully through this would be Michaela. However, he vowed to do whatever was within his power to help them.

He had a very strong feeling that the presence of the Spirits was going to play a very big role in his brother's healing and the renewal of his love with his heartsong.

That together with the knowledge of Michaela's true heart and knowing that she would understand and would not think any less of Sully for what had happened in his past reassured Cloud Dancing that things were not as bleak as they may at first appear.

Although he didn't doubt for one minute that it was going to be a very hard bumpy road for both of them.

Before he was startled out of reverie by a tap on his arm he decided that he would suggest to Dorothy that she take the children back to Colorado Springs with her and leave Michaela and Sully with him to begin their reaffirmation.

He knew that Dorothy would not question this, and if he was honest he also knew that she would be well aware of the reasoning behind his request.

But for now Cloud Dancing had to try and get some rest, they would be approach Washington by early afternoon, which is less than four hours away. He just had to trust that the children would be ok.

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As the children approached the White House all three of them began to feel more than a little apprehensive. They didn't even know for sure that their Ma would be here and if she was would she be alright. If she wasn't, well quite frankly they didn't even want to think of that scenario….no she had to be here and with Sully…they had to be alright.

When the cab pulled to a halt at the main entrance the children looked at each other before nodding their heads no further words were needed as the three of them raced across the lawns of the White House and headed for the same secret door that Michaela and Sully had coincidentally used before.

As they ran down one of the corridors, heading to the President's office they were more than a little shocked to discover Michaela and Sully running from the opposite direction, straight towards them.

"Ma!" "Matthew?" was the reaction from Matthew and Michaela as they spoke at the same time.

"What are you doing here?" Was Michaela's next statement.

"Never mind, we don't have time for that now but we will later you have my word on that."

Secretly Michaela was pleased to see her eldest son.

It was Sully who spoke the first words of realisation after the shock had worn off. "It's not that it ain't great ta see you guys but we have ta stop Steward and quickly.

"Whose Steward?" Was Matthew's first question but he quickly added, "Don't worry, I know… later."

Sully quickly filled Matthew in on their plan if you could call storming the President's Office a plan.

When everyone knew what they were doing it was actions stations. Colleen and Brian had been given the job of look out and distraction makers. Which given Brian's habit for creating mischief it was quite a good job.

Matthew agreed to be on hand if things should turn nasty, as they may well do if Steward should try to escape. That left Michaela and Sully to go and talk to the President and show him that Sully was set up.

Sully slowly knocked on the door and awaited an answer, none came so he tried the handle….It was open. Shielding Michaela behind him as they entered Sully quickly scanned the room to ensure it was safe.

Happy that there wasn't any immediate danger he invited Michaela to enter fully. But where was the President? Suddenly someone entered from a side room, trying to find cover for himself and Michaela wasn't easy, but they then realised that it wasn't needed anyway as the fine looking gentleman that had just entered was the very man that they had come to see.

It was the President. He was alive thank God.

They had very nearly succeeded in their plan. The only thing remaining was to inform him of the wrong doings of Colonel Steward. Approaching him cautiously Michaela was the first to speak "Mr President, sir?"

Surprised by the sudden sound of a lady's voice startled the President, quickly turning around to see who it was he was stunned that it turned out to be Dr Quinn!

"How did you get in here Dr Quinn and more importantly what ARE you doing here?"

"I am sorry for the intrusion sir but I….no we must speak with you. It is a matter of utmost urgency. A matter of national security."

Ulysses S Grant was not usually a man to be trifled with. He was a stickler for rules. Was a hard taskmaster and had the respect of his army, as he was Major General.

And yet, this woman, Dr Quinn, seemed to always be able to make him waver; he really couldn't explain it but there was something about her that mad him want to help and this situation didn't appear any different.

Sully had been watching the President keenly for any signs of weakening but he didn't hold out much hope.

Michaela on the other hand had, through her previous meetings with Ulysses grown to respect him as a honourable and fair man, who had the misfortune of being shown guidance from unscrupulous senators. She had every faith in him and trusted that he would agree to hear them out.

"Ok Dr Quinn. I will agree to listen to you. But hear this if I consider, at any time, that what you have to say is not worth listening to then I will have both you and Mr Sully speedily removed and thrown into jail. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes sir we understand and we will be quick I promise."

"Good, now maybe it would be better if we were to have a seat and then perhaps Mr Sully could relax a bit as well."

As they all took a seat Michaela wondered how to begin, but it seemed that Sully had already decided that he was going to be the one to tell the story. As it was his crime that he had to be freed from.

"Well sir, it started bout seven years ago when I joined up after my wife and baby died.

I was put on special assignment but I was tricked. The army said that I had to kill this high ranking officer and it would change the war."

Michaela glanced at Sully and saw such a look a fright in his eyes that she was stunned, he almost seemed to be mentally re-living the whole affair. She wanted to reach out to him but knew he hadn't finished so she remained silent and waited.

"When I killed him I felt so bad that I found out that he was only a business man and that I'd been set up!"

"I deserted shortly after but to this day I bitterly regret doin it but I had no choice, it was an order!"

"Who ordered you Mr Sully? I would find it hard to believe that I have such heinous officers under my control. I am now ordering you to tell me who did this!"

Taking a deep breath Sully prepared to relate the final part of the tale, hoping that by doing so he would finally be able to lay his past to rest. At least until he talked with Michaela he thought wryly to himself.

"Sir, ya really won't like it but I have to tell ya. It was Colonel George Steward"

"He's also the man behind the threat to ya life and the attempted shootin' of Michaela."

Silence fell in the room and it seemed that there was nothing alive until the voice of a grateful, relieved President could be heard saying,

"Thank you Mr Sully for your candidness and your bravery I know that it wasn't easy for you to tell me that and I respect you for doing so even though you probably would have preferred not to."

"Now as for Steward I had my suspicions but have you any proof?"

Michaela handed Sully the vital document containing his orders.

"This is my order paper sir."

Handing the document over, Sully felt that a huge weight had been lifted of his shoulders. He just had to wait and see what his fate was going to be. Was it all worth it? It had to be.…It just had to be worth all the torment!

The room once again fell silent as the President perused the paper.

"Thank you Mr Sully. You have finally been able to do what I have been trying to do for years. You have proved what a corrupt senator Steward is. For that I am eternally grateful. Is there anything that I can do to repay your honesty?"

Looking at Michaela Sully knew what he had to ask for "Sir, Dr Quinn was forced to break the law in order for me ta be able ta tell ya bout Steward. Sir I will accept all the punishment that is due if ya will pardon Dr Quinn."

"Mr Sully I will do more than that. I will give you the honourable discharge that you should have had seven years ago and I will give you both unconditional pardons for doing your duty to this country."

Handing Sully his sword and stripes was all the thanks that Michaela needed.

Having received her fiancé back and free and also got an unjust man put behind bars was more than she ever dared dream of.

There was of course the small matter of the children that had to be dealt with but that could be sorted out later, maybe even when they got home.

Home. They could finally go home. Together forever.

However for Sully there still remained one very important job to do and for that he would need the help of Cloud Dancing, wherever he was but for now he would be happy to be able to celebrate with his family, his life.

If you want to see what happened on the way home read on in Part 2 – The Resolution