Lazy Day, Warrior, Traditions & Sword Fight


Mac'IlleMhìcheil Estate – Blue Room

The guys had taken over the Blue room. Wallace said he had orders from Ailis that none of them were to lift a finger to help with the wedding preparations other than getting themselves ready. Everything else was covered. So they all gathered in the Blue room and lounged around for the rest of the afternoon.

Blaze and Winds were currently playing a game of chess. Jim and Mason were discussing what Mason could expect during Marsaili's pregnancy. Sam was sprawled out on the large soft sofa, sound asleep. Every so often one of the guys glanced over at him with concern.

Jules had checked in on Sam earlier when she brought him another dose of pain meds. Jim noted that she brought both options and Sam had opted for the narcotic ones. That was the reason Sam was sleeping now. The meds had knocked him out.

Blaze leaned back after playing the checkmate move and smiled "Wanna go again?"

Winds shook his head "Nah, getting beat five times in a row is no fun."

Mason grinned "You know the only one of us that could ever beat Blaze routinely is Blondie."

Winds grinned "I keep trying though. And Blondie was taught by the General."

Blaze nodded "Had me some pretty tough games with the General. I'm usually on the losing end playing with him. It's where I learned the strategy I used in this game with you Winds."

Jim stood and stretched then headed for the sofa. He stopped and stared down at Sam. It was good he was sleeping. It was the best thing for him right now. Sam needed the rest. Jim looked at the guys and said "I was surprised when he took the narcotic meds."

Mason slouched down getting comfortable in the big, soft, blue chair and kicked his bare feet up on the ottoman "He's finally learning to take better care of himself. Jules has a good effect on him."

"About damned time" Blaze stated as he looked with affection at the man he considered one of his sons.

Blaze thought that Blondie had come a long way from the cocky young soldier that waltzed into their unit eleven years ago with a smile that was brighter than the sun. There was a part of his heart that would always be reserved just for Blondie. It had bled and cried for all the things Blondie had endured. But now it simply rejoiced. Blaze was so happy that Blondie had made it to great and had Jules in his life.

Winds grinned "Ya know I bet soon Blondie will have kids too. Wonder what that will do to him?"

Mason sighed "I hope it will mean he takes fewer risks."

Jim snorted as he headed to one of the comfortable chairs and plopped down "Don't hold your breath on that one Mason. We all know who Sam is at the core. Personally, I wouldn't want him to change too much. The world is a better place with him in it."

Blaze shifted and sighed "Fewer risks would keep him here longer. It would do my heart good to see him take fewer risks." Then he asked "Mason how is everything we discussed shaping up?"

A huge grin spread across Mason's face "Shaping up just fine. I spoke with Lady Ailis and she is arranging things here. Mike is on board. The General took care of his part too."

Sam grinned inwardly at the thought of kids with Jules then wondered just what the heck they were talking about. He had woken up but stayed in stealth mode when he heard them talking about him. It wasn't nice to eavesdrop but then again it wasn't nice to talk about someone behind their back. So Sam justified they were even. He waited a few more moments to see if they would say more. But the room became quiet.

He shifted on the sofa and stifled a groan. Damn his stomach still hurt and so did his fists. Slugging someone in the face bare fisted tended to hurt later. The throbbing in his broken arm was not too bad. Sam was glad he opted for the narcotic meds. He had been rewarded with a smile and kiss from Jules and the sleep had done him good too.

Sam wondered how long he had been asleep but was not worried that he was late. The guys would have woken him up if it was time to get ready. Sam yawned to let the guys know he was waking then he opened his eyes.

Slowly sitting up Sam looked around and found that all of the guys were wearing only t-shirts and shorts. He saw a rolling wardrobe off in one corner that held all of their kilts, shirts and jackets for the wedding and a pile of jeans and their other casual attire for the closing ceremony. Sam asked lazily "So we are dressing in here?"

Mason grinned seeing Blondie awake "Yeah, Ailis made this the groomsmen room seeing that you were napping here. You want to shower before we get dressed for the closing ceremony?"

Sam shook his head "Jules helped me shower before we came down for lunch."

Jim asked "Pain level?"

Sam rolled his shoulders and stretched his neck "Bout a three. I'm good for now."

Jim said "It's close to time for another dose. How about you eat something and you take the OTC meds this time. Stay ahead of the pain."

Sam was about to say no but he saw Blaze looking at him askance. He capitulated "Fine."

Blaze grinned "That's a good kid."

Mason rose and said "I'll be back with something for us all to snack on. Anyone want anything in particular?"

Sam said "Iced coffee would be nice."

Winds stood "I'll give you a hand Mason."

Standing and wandering to the window Sam looked out and commented "The area they are setting up for the wedding looks huge."

Blaze turned to look out "Yeah, it's open to all the clan. You up to walking in that parade for all the winners of the game events?"

Carefully sitting down Sam nodded "Yeah, I'll be good."

Jim looked at Sam and said "Don't overdo and you should limit your alcohol consumption tonight."

Nodding Sam grinned and said "I'll drink ginger ale like Marsaili." Then he chuckled and said "That secret was as badly kept as Jules and me dating. I can't wait to see Mason with his own kid, especially after seeing him with Lachlann."

"That boy sure looks a lot like Mason. If I didn't know better I'd think Lachlann was Mason's son" Blaze remarked.

Jim smiled "He sure is good with kids." Then he turned to Sam and said "You and Jules ever plan on having kids?"

Sam shrugged "I'd like too but we have not talked about it. It will be up to Jules. I wouldn't want her to sacrifice her career if she didn't want kids."

Blaze asked "Why have you not talked about that yet? Seems like something pretty important."

Sam shifted his head to gaze at the ceiling for a moment then he dropped it to Blaze and said "I'm a coward. I want kids real bad. But I want Jules more. I'm afraid she might not want kids and if she doesn't …." The thought he did not voice was that she would not marry him knowing that she would not want to lock him into a childless marriage if she didn't want kids and he did.

He started again and spoke his other thought aloud "Jules chose the job over me once before. I know that still bothers her. If I tell her I want kids and she doesn't. Well … she might have kids just because I want them. I don't want to do that to Jules. So for now it is a subject I steer clear from."

Blaze nodded "I understand. You want some help? Maybe Heather or Marsaili could ask her and you would then know."

Sam shook his head "No. Jules and I will eventually talk about it. Maybe after we are married."

Letting the subject drop Blaze asked "You want to play a game of chess?"

Rising and walking over to sit where Winds had been Sam answered "Sure. Ready to get beaten."

Chuckling Blaze said "I've had practice lately with the General. I'll give you a real run for your money now."

Sam laughed as he sat "Bring it on old man."

Jim grinned seeing Sam so happy and relaxed. Winds' idea was a good one. He leaned back in the chair and closed his eyes. Sam and Jules would create some beautiful children if they ever had any. He could understand why Sam avoided the subject. Jim wanted to ask Heather to intervene but he would respect the personal boundary Sam set. But then again … Sam did mess with him and Heather.

Sam got him to tell him that Heather was the one knowing full well Heather was right behind him. That had worked out great though. If Jules did not want kids, that would hurt Sam. Jim did not want to be the one to hurt him. So he would butt out.

Mason and Winds returned a short time later. The five of them had a good time joking around and eating and listening to hard rock. It was a rare lazy afternoon that each and every one of them appreciated after so many years of being friends.

Jim made sure Sam took his meds after eating something, especially since dinner would be later in the evening after the wedding. Jules popped in just before it was time to get ready for the closing ceremony to see if Sam needed a hand dressing. She left when the guys said they would help in whatever way Sam needed.

As they were dressing in casual attire for the closing ceremony the Laird and Marsaili's father entered. All the guys could see why Marsaili's father allowed the chieftainship to pass to Wallace. He was frail and wan. He suffered from severe asthma like Tamhas had. It was nice to see though that Wallace was hale and hearty and did not inherit the debilitating asthma of his father.

They drew Mason and Sam to the side and spoke with them for several minutes. Blaze watched Mason's body language and it became taut as he looked to Blondie. Blondie shrugged and smiled before responding but Blaze could not hear what was being discussed. His interest was piqued but he waited patiently.

After the Laird and Marsaili's father left, Winds asked "What was that about?"

Mason absently rubbed his wrist and said "The Laird wanted to know if I'd be willing to go along with two very old customs today."

Blaze asked "What customs?"

Mason looked at Blaze and answered "You'll see."

Sam shook his head "You sure you want to do that?"

Mason sighed "Marsaili agreed so I guess I'm okay with it. Are you sure you are up to doing it? I could always have the Laird find someone else do it if you aren't up to it Blondie."

"I'm best man and they said it was part of that role. I'm game for it. I'm up for it if you really want to go ahead with it" Sam stated.

Sam thought it was a good thing it was his right hand that was impaired. His left was fully functional. The first part of what they wanted him to do actually sounded fun. The second part he was not looking forward too. But he would do it if Mason and Marsaili wanted him to do it.

Mason nodded "Marsaili wants to please her grandfather. I can't say no to her. The first part will be fun."

Winds, Jim and Blaze gave them both an assessing glare and Blaze said "Spill it!"

Sam winked at Mason and said "Should we leave them in the dark?"

Mason made an attempt at agreeing but at the steady glares he laughed and said "Not if I want to make it to my wedding alive." Mason then explained what they were going to do.

Blaze shook his head "Mason are you daft? I mean having Blondie wield a sword, one handed, in mock battle with Wallace is asking for trouble. Just saying … Blondie plus sword plus battle … need I say more?"

Sam grinned and chuckled "Oh ye of little faith. My left hand is just fine."

Winds sat down chuckling as he said "Someone better tell Jules it is make believe before she takes Wallace out."

Jim sighed "I'll make sure I have my Sam pack with me with plenty of compression bandages."

Sam rolled his eyes as he sat down. He was actually looking forward to that part. The last time he had played sword fight had been when he was eight and Scott gave him a set of plastic pirate swords for his birthday. That day, in his imagination, his tree house became a pirate ship and he and Scott set sail for uncharted waters. They attacked Jeff and Adam who played the English Navy sent to capture the pirates. That had been a great day.

But Winds was right Jules would freak if she didn't know it was part of an old custom of stealing the bride. Sam said "I'll tell Jules so she doesn't hurt Wallace."

The guys finished getting ready and then headed out to join the rest of the family for the closing ceremony.

After the ceremony they would return to the blue room and change for the wedding. Once they were changed Mason and Sam would be off to steal Marsaili. The mock sword battle between Wallace and Blondie would take place on the front lawn in full view of everyone as Mason carried Marsaili off to the blessing stone.

Marsaili's father would then escort Marsaili from the blessing stone to the wedding altar. It was a bit of a mix of traditions but it was all in fun and to please Marsaili's grandparents and entertain the guests. Plus it would give Marsaili and Mason good memories.


Mac'IlleMhìcheil Estate – Gathering Meadow

The entire clan turned out for the closing ceremony. It was full of bag pipes playing merry tunes with drums beating out rhythms that brought out Scottish pride. Clan coat of arms were paraded along with all the winners of the events.

Laird Gillebrìde took the podium after the parade and gave a rousing speech full of thanks to all those that helped organize the gathering. He then proceeded to call out the winners of each event. The winners came to the podium and were given a small commemorative coin by Lady Ailis.

Sam was flipping his coin for the hill race between his fingers on his left hand as the Laird continued to award others. He was thinking about Jules' reaction to the mock sword battle he was to have with Wallace. She was none too pleased and of the same mindset as Blaze. He finally got her to see he was okay to do it. He and Wallace had talked briefly and Sam assured her that Wallace was well aware of his limitations at the moment and would take it easy on him.

Jules was finally on-board after she had talked to Wallace herself. Sam grinned thinking about the look Wallace gave him. He was sure that Jules put the fear of god in Wallace. He was brought out of his thoughts as he heard his name again from the Laird.

Sam looked up confused. Jules laid a hand on Sam's arm and said "The Laird asked you to join up on the podium again."

He had no idea what was going on. Sam put the coin in his pocket and made his way to the podium and as he did the people he passed patted his arms, shoulders or back. He was a bit freaked out by what was going on. He got to the stairs and looked up at the Laird and Lady Ailis.

Lady Ailis motioned for him to come up. Sam climbed the stairs. When he reached the top Lady Ailis linked her arm with his and walked him over to the Laird and turned him so he was facing the clan gathered below. It was a sea of tartan with hundreds of people gathered. It was a bit unnerving for Sam because he had no clue what was going on.

Laird Gillebrìde spoke loud and clear "Before you stands Samuel William Braddock a true highland warrior. By now you have all heard of his deeds last evening in which he defended my granddaughter. When I look upon this young man I am reminded of a quote from the great Greek philosopher, Heraclitus. Out of every one hundred men, ten should not even be there, eighty are just targets, nine are the real fighters and we are lucky to have them for they make the battle. Ah, but the one, one is the warrior and he will bring the others back."

Gillebrìde picked up a sword in a scabbard and turned to Sam. His voice was strong as he stated "As Chief of Clan Mac'IlleMhìcheil, I present you with the highland warrior's sword. Warriors are not always the fastest or the strongest men. Strength and speed can be developed through training. Warriors are those who choose to stand between their enemy and all that he loves and holds sacred. Warriors are protectors of family and those in need. Warriors are guardians of the ways of honor and courage. Warriors do not put their own desires above what is right."

Placing the sword in Sam's hands Laird Gillebrìde concluded "Samuel William Braddock, through your deeds and your words you have proven that you are a true highland warrior. May God bless you and keep you safe as you protect others."

Sam swallowed hard. He was moved by the words. He didn't know what to say. Lady Ailis came to his rescue again as she lightly kissed his cheek, smiled gracefully and whispered only to him "No words are needed from you at this time. You have our eternal gratitude for what you did." Then she smiled broadly and said loudly "I think you will be needing this sword to help Mason steal his bride."

A roar of applause, whistles and drums beating engulfed the gathering meadow. Lady Ailis lead him to the stairs. As he descended Mason, Blaze, Winds and Jim surrounded him and protected him from the swarm of well-wisher. Sam barely heard the Laird give the final closing blessing and announcement that the wedding would begin in an hour and a half and urged those gathered to go to the refreshment tables until the wedding began.

His brothers shepherded him through the crowd making sure that no one in their excitement crushed him in a hug or gripped his right arm. They quickly made their way through the throng and into the house and up to the blue room.


Mac'IlleMhìcheil Estate – Bridal Suite of Rooms

Jules came in to see Nan. They had talked earlier in the afternoon. Jules really liked all of Mason's sisters. Nan was a make-up artist for a Canadian film company and they had discussed covering Sam's bruises so they did not show up in Mason's and Marsaili's wedding photos.

Smiling Jules recalled Sam's reaction to her suggestion that he allow Nan to cover his bruises. Sam looked like a little boy told that he had to go fishing with the girls. Sam actually pouted and declared he was not going to wear make up. That is until Jules played her ace card and said Marsaili would appreciate it if he would do it just for her. Sam reluctantly agreed but he was not happy about it.

Nan looked up and saw Jules. She was gorgeous tonight. Jules wore a satin blue floor length gown that hugged her shapely form in all the right places. Nan smiled when she saw that the Ferguson tartan was pinned over her shoulder. Nan thought that Sam and Jules made a stunning couple.

She gathered up a few make-up items and then Nan asked "Is Sam ready for me?"

Jules lightly giggled "Ready? No. Sam will never be ready for this. But yes he will submit to 'losing his manliness' as he said to please Marsaili."

Nan giggled too "I promise it will look natural and no one will notice a thing. It's not like I'm gonna put rouge and eyeliner on him. Just a little cover so the bruises are not so noticeable. I can tell him all about my latest clients. I got to make up David Paetkau, Sergio Di Zio, Michael Cram and Hugh Dillon for a promotional photo shoot for that new cop show they are on. Those are some manly men. So if they can wear makeup for photos so can Sam. You know I think Sam looks a lot like David. They have the same bright smile."

Jules shrugged her shoulders and said "I haven't seen the show. I don't normally watch TV. Sam might know what you are talking about though."

Then Jules looked at Marsaili. She was absolutely splendid. Marsaili choose a traditional white gown with delicate lace arms. The lace, Jules remembered from Ailis, was handmade by a local woman and was crafted with small heather flower shapes throughout it. The dress had a short train. Given they were marrying outside it would have been too difficult to have a long train. Marsaili wore a sash of her family tartan. Jules wondered if after the ceremony the sash would change to Mason's tartan.

Marsaili's hair was upswept in an elaborate braid. The braid was dotted with heather. Marsaili's small heart-shaped face was radiant.

Jules was so happy for Marsaili and Mason. She was so tiny and he was so big but their hearts were equal size. Jules recalled Sam telling her that it was Marsaili that had saved Ben's duck and fixed it for him. That is when Mason and Marsaili met for the first time. Marsaili's random act of kindness was never forgotten by Mason.

To hear Marsaili tell of their first meeting she said she was in awe that a man of Mason's size was so tender and gentle with his buddy. Marsaili laughed when she told Jules that she was scared at first when Mason enveloped her in a hug. But she got the true measure of Mason when he spoke so softly and caringly to Sam as he put the duck in Sam's hand.

Jules noticed that the full length mirror was covered and asked Nan "Why is the mirror covered?"

Nan answered "It is bad luck for the bride to look in the mirror wearing her complete outfit. An old belief says that part of yourself goes into the reflection. So the bride does not look upon herself because she would not be giving all of herself to her new husband."

"That is beautiful. Is there a meaning for the heather and the ring she is already wearing?" Jules asked wanting to know more about Scottish wedding traditions and that beautiful ring. She had seen the ring before today. It was two hands holding a heart that was adorned with a crown.

Cala stepped over and said "Heather is believed to bring good luck, solitude and protection to the bridal couple. Marsaili also has heather in her bouquet for that reason."

Mason's sister Em offered the explanation for the ring already on Marsaili's left hand. "Marsaili is wearing the Claddagh ring on her left hand with the heart facing outward. Worn like that it implies Marsaili is engaged. Today at the ceremony Mason will remove it and put it back on her left hand with the heart facing inward to show that she is now married. Mason's wedding ring is also a Claddagh ring and Marsaili will place it on his ring finger in the same manner when they exchange rings."

Jules smiled. She loved all the unique traditions and customs. Scottish history was rich and beautiful. Much like the people she had met here.

She was going to be sad when she and Sam had to leave tomorrow night. Jules wished that they could spend time in that cottage she dreamed about last night. It would be so nice, just the two of them, together in the wilds of Scotland without a care in the world. But alas they had to return to Canada and to work. Well at least Jules had to return to work, Sam would be off several weeks before they would let him come back on light duty.

Jules sighed and said "Let's go make Sam pretty."

Nan, Cala and Em laughed as Jules and Nan headed out.


Mac'IlleMhìcheil Estate – Front Lawn

Sam and Mason had raced up the stairs. Well raced is not quite the right word for Sam. He had lumbered up the stairs unable to keep pace with Mason. Sam only got half way before Mason started descending the stairs with petite Marsaili in his arms and a grin a mile wide on his face.

They had changed into their Prince Charlie kilts and Blaze had helped Sam with everything he could not do one handed, including attaching the sword he had been presented. Four of them wearing Mason's tartan and Sam outfitted in the Ferguson tartan he wore for the handfasting. The five of them were a sight to behold. Even Winds admitted wearing a kilt was not so bad as he admired his image in the full length mirror as they had gotten dressed.

Sam had held the broach with the Ferguson motto in his hand for several minutes before Blaze attached his fly tartan with it. The motto was so fitting for him. His life was most definitely sweeter after difficulties.

Wallace had knocked at the door and told them that Marsaili was ready. Blaze, Winds and Jim had joined all the family on the front lawn while Sam and Mason headed for Marsaili.

Sam and Mason burst through the front door and were confronted by Wallace.

Wallace was a beautiful specimen of manly vigor decked out in the Mac'IlleMhìcheil red and black tartan with his sword drawn. He challenged them "Put my sister down. Ye be no stealing her."

Mason glanced at Sam and said "You're on brother."

Sam withdrew the sword and moved forward with a lopsided grin on his face. "Ye be no stopping us" Sam called back in a fake Scottish accent that had half the people chuckling.

Wallace lunged forward. Sam parried. The blades clanged as the two made a somewhat realistic show of fighting. Wallace moved forward backing Sam towards the low wall. Jules cringed hoping not to see a repeat of Sam falling over a low wall like he did in the airport. At the last second Sam spun and lunged for Wallace now on the offensive.

Sam's arm was getting tired and his stomach muscles were screaming at him but he was having a good time. His smile was broad as he slashed and hacked at Wallace. All sorts of pirate terms were filling his head but he refrained from saying them. Pirates and Scots were distinctly different.

Mason watched a moment with everyone else then sprinted off with Marsaili. He could see Blondie was having a good time. He hoped that Wallace remembered to go easy.

Jim grimaced as one lunge came a little too close for his comfort. He shifted his Sam pack on his back. Jim was not kidding when he said he would have it ready and it would contain several compression bandages. Those blades were real and they were sharp. Although the smile on Sam's face made him look like a kid playing pirates. It was damned good to see.

Blaze watched and saw the zeal with which Blondie was moving. It was highly likely Blondie would pay the price later with sore muscles but he could not begrudge him the fun. The sound of the swords hitting harder and harder though worried him. Both Blondie and Wallace were getting too into it. Blaze wondered if he should put a stop to it before one of them was injured.

Wynfreda sidled up next to Winds and looked him up and down then said "You look good in a kilt."

Winds tore his gaze from Blondie and looked at Wynfreda "You are looking beautiful tonight to Wynfreda. Save a dance for me?"

Blushing Wynfreda nodded. She thought if only Winds was younger she would go for him. He was a kind and generous man who cared deeply for those he was close to. She liked that he had a real sense of duty and knew what he wanted to do in life and what he did was noble. But she was only twenty and he had to be pushing forty, although she really didn't know how old he was. But she could enjoy tonight and have some fun with him.

She linked her arm with Winds and said "So who's gonna win? Sam or Wallace?"

Winds looked back at the two fighting with swords and grinned. "My money is always on Blondie."

Another five minutes of sword play and Sam and Wallace called it quits. The fight was declared a tie but in Winds' mind Blondie won because he was fighting at a disadvantage. And there was the fact that Mason got away with Marsaili, even though that was a given.

Sam sheathed his sword and then shook left hands with Wallace. They exchanged mutual compliments then Sam turned to find Jules at his side.

He gave her a cocky smile. "See no injuries" Sam crowed.

Jules laughed and said "We'll see what your stomach muscles think of that comment in the morning."

Then she went on her tippy toes and kissed him. It was a quick kiss given all those around them. Sam offered his left arm to her and she linked her arm in his and they began the stroll to the gathering meadow where the wedding would take place.


AN: Hope you enjoyed the twist that Sam did something with the potential to be very dangerous, had fun and came out unharmed.

Next chapter is the wedding and Sam and Jules will find out about that surprise thank you the guys have been planning.

For those wanting a visual of my inspirations for the clothing (remove spaces and use a . instead of the word dot):

- Prince Charlie kilt and fly tartan: www dot scotweb dot co dot uk/products/classic-prince-charlie-kilt-outfit-with-luxury-clan-accessories

- Marsaili's wedding dress: hillweddingdress dot com/img/wedding-dress-mermaid-style-with-long-sleeves-4 dot jpg

- Jules dress: i00 dot i dot aliimg dot com/wsphoto/v0/636444054/Posh-Amazing-form-fitting-jersey-gown-front-slit-2013-prom-dresses dot jpg

- Sam's Tartan (Old Ferguson tartan): www dot tartanregister dot gov dot uk/tartanLargeImage dot aspx?ref=1160

- Ferguson Clan Crest/Broach: www dot scotclans dot com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/fergusson dot gif