Thank you to those who have taken the time to read the first chapter of my work-in-progress writing exercise.
Please note that the standard disclaimers apply and can be found in the first chapter heading.
Chapter 2
Monday morning felt oddly cooler than she had thought, but at least they had a more pleasant day with some actual sun. Closing her locker, Mackenzie, Chloe, Emily, and Johanna walk through the bustling hall to find a place to eat lunch and talk.
"So have you decided where you're going?" Emily smiles brightly before biting into her sandwich. Clair approaches with her boyfriend Anthony, an athletic sandy brown-haired boy and they rearrange their seating to accommodate their friend and the group's newest addition.
"I'm sticking close to home," Johanna answers as she plucks a grape off the vine and pops it in her mouth.
"So Seacouver U it is?" Emily's smile broadens, "you're only going there because Jay's there, aren't you?"
"No, I just like the idea of living at home for as long as I can— free food, accommodation, laundry, and the use of the car while I'm in school. Who could complain?" she says waving her fork around in the air, to emphasise her point.
"Well I can see your point, but we all know that you have a thing for Jay." Emily teases and watches the blush that creeps across Johanna's cheeks.
"Man, you guys are terrible." Mackenzie breaks up their teasing.
"So where are you going?" Clair manages through her giggles.
"UC Sunnydale." Her reply not exactly what they had expected of her. "I did a lot of thinking, you know? A lot of research. Weighing the pros and cons— and I have come to the conclusion that it truly is in my best interest. There is this first-year psychology course taught by a Maggie Walsh and I'm really hoping to take it. I hear she's a very interesting professor. And you're not going to believe this!" She pauses to emphasise her point.
"What?" the girls reply in a chorus.
"Duncan will be guest lecturing for the year."
"Really?" Clair cocks an eyebrow and leans forward. "What is he lecturing on?" she asks with a tilt of her head and a coy smile.
"I think he said something about the history of medieval weaponry or something. I know that I will actually have to take that class— and not because he's teaching it, but because my mother feels that it's important."
"That actually sounds like a cool class. And nearly a good enough reason to change schools." Clair adds with a smirk, Mackenzie rolls her eyes and turns her attention back to her lunch.
"So what did you think of that history exam?" Johanna inquires, changing the subject with a sigh of relief.
"It was pretty easy," Mackenzie replies as she checks her watch. "Oh! I better get going, I have Latin next."
"I still don't get why you're taking so many languages," Clair says before turning her attention to another group of students that clearly weren't considered popular. "I mean really? You've taken French, Spanish, Latin, and German. Are you planning on Italian anytime soon?"
"Actually, this summer. I'm also studying Greek and I'm looking into the middle languages." She sticks out her tongue and heads back towards the school.
"Crazy girl." Emily tucks a stray strand of hair behind her ear as they watch her go. "I mean really? When will she ever use any of those languages?" she says as Johanna bites into a strawberry, "unless of course, she's planning on working for the United Nations or something like that."
"Wouldn't that be awesome?" Clair smiles broadly, "I've heard that you need to speak at least two of the official languages."
"Oh, maybe she's thinking about the CIA? I mean really? Having the working knowledge of so many languages would probably be an incredible asset in the interception of coded messages and the like."
"That would be awesome." Emily turns her attention towards the school for a moment. "And here I am merely thinking of going into law." she sighs wistfully. "Perhaps I ought to reconsider my options. We still have time. I mean, I've only received my acceptance letters— I can take a bit more time before confirming my choice.
"Why don't we get together after school and really go over the majors and course offerings?" Clair suggests which immediately puts Johanna and Emily at ease.
"Perhaps we could all go to the same school." She adds.
"Well, I doubt that I could afford to attend UC Sunnydale, the residence costs alone would kill me. I have to work to put enough together for tuition as it is." Johanna sighs, "But maybe we could attend Seacouver U together. That is, of course, that they offer what we all need to get where we want."
"Agreed— we meet after school and discuss our options." Chloe states and they nod agreement, then pack up their empty lunch containers and head towards the school and their remaining classes.
Standing in front of the mirror examining herself, Mackenzie confirms that all is where it ought to be. A functional ponytail to allow the mortarboard to rest on her head without falling off, her makeup fresh and light, her dress straightened and without any creases. Sighing contently, the feeling of actually being a graduate sinks in. Glancing once more around her room, the realisation of leaving all that she has known for the past eighteen years will be forever changed – not in the least bit negatively, just things will be different.
Despite this realisation, Mackenzie mentally accepts the reality of the changes about to come and she smiles with the gentle tap on her door as her mother enters her room.
"Honey, you look so beautiful." She smiles proudly and Mackenzie returns her smile, trying not to allow the emotion to show. "Are you ready for the closing of this chapter?"
"Yes, I actually think I am. And even if I'm not, it's going to happen anyways." She replies and closes the distance between them giving her mother a hug. "Thank you for everything." She whispers.
"You'll make us proud no matter what you do. You've already excelled in so many things. I only wish that I had had your focus when I was young.
"Mom, I really never had the choice. I'm fortunate enough to have the most amazing parents, friends who may not have a clue what I'm up to— supporting me always, Uncle Joe who has the patience of a saint in trying to train me in my Watcher studies, and Duncan who I'd be dead without his guidance and training. How is dad with that by the way?"
"You're father knows that he, like you, has no choice in the matter." Her smile is warm and comforting.
"Well, you guys are handling it a heck of a lot better than I am. All the training in the world will never truly prepare me for the reality. Watcher training or physical training aside, I merely have to accept that I am who I am and try to be the best me that I can be; and enjoy every moment. Starting with graduation." She laughs at herself.
"You've always had that introspection that so many of us could only wish for. Oh, before I forget. This is for you." She holds out a small box and Mackenzie reaches out and accepts it. She slowly frees the small box from the gold paper and opens it. Sitting neatly on a velvet pillow is a white gold chain with a horseshoe pendant with small diamonds.
"Mom, this is beautiful. Thank you."
"Happy graduation honey." She takes the gold chain from Mackenzie and easily places it around her neck, fastening it. Exchanging another hug, the clearing of her father's throat breaks their mother-daughter moment.
"Happy graduation Kenzie! We are so incredibly proud of you and your accomplishments." He steps into her room and embraces his daughter in a tight hug.
"Thanks, dad. I guess we have to get going." She says squished between her parents in another big hug. "I didn't know our family was this emotional." She smiles brightly and they head downstairs to the car.
Mackenzie is grateful for the clear, sunny summer day for Seacouver Secondary Schools outdoor graduation ceremony— which to everyone involved in planning is glad goes off without a hitch. Once the graduates receive their diplomas and all official speeches complete:
"I would now like to present the graduating class of 1998." The principal announces cheerfully and the students rise to their feet and toss their mortarboards into the air cheering with an enthusiasm that only teens can have when upon the cusp of adulthood— for some further academic endeavours, or entering the workforce, while others will ponder their very existence within the universe itself.
Following the sea of robes exiting the stage to meet and greet with family and friends in the reception area, Mackenzie finds her friends and together they search for their families.
"Hey, Kenzie! Over here!" her brother hollers, but it wasn't this call that catches her attention, rather the tall Scotchman, his deep chestnut hair in his signature tidy ponytail held in place with a sterling silver Celtic tie. He wears his bright smile and turns from her uncle. Great! The whole family, she muses as she motions for her friends to accompany her so they can get some photos taken.
"Allow me." Duncan offers, taking the camera from her mother. They did the friend poses first and added family members so that all the girls could share in the memories. "Kenzie, one of you and your parents." He calls after the hugs and families had a moment to have the large group photos taken.
"I'll email you all of the photos," Mackenzie says lightly, knowing that they would all exchange whatever photos of the day they had over email. Breaking away from the group, Mackenzie and her mother find a quiet place beside a small water feature to have their family photos done. Her father, brother, uncle, and Duncan all take turns with her and then she has a photo taken with her mother, father, and Jason.
"Hey, why don't you get in there and let me take a few?" Clair says with a shy smile. "I couldn't help but notice that Duncan won't be in any of your family photos." She adds.
"Thanks." Mackenzie smiles gratefully. "Don't forget our weekend plans." She says as she takes the camera form her friend.
"Oh I wouldn't dare!" she replies and hugs her friend once more. "I better get back or my family will wonder where I've gotten to."
"I can't believe that this is it."
"Yeah, I know. We survived the hell that is high school. I wonder what the real world has in store for us."
"Probably the same crap we've been dealing with, but we'll be grown up." Mackenzie and Clair both laugh at the thought, not fully realising how insightful her conceptualisation of what their new reality actually holds for them.
After the weekend slumber party of the century, Monday morning rolls around with very little excitement. Mackenzie sets herself at the kitchen island with a bowl of fruit, some yogurt, a mug of tea and the morning newspaper. She skims through the classifieds for summer employment, but there is little there. Deciding that the internet will better serve her, she notices her mother make her way into the kitchen and fills the coffee carafe.
"Good morning honey." She could never quite understand how her mother could, without fail be so chipper in the morning. "Are you and Duncan running today?"
"Yup, and I've decided that I'm going to obtain meaningful summer employment."
"No, you're not. You have your summer studies. Not to mention your Watcher and physical training."
"Mom! How do you expect me to pay for my lodgings, food, supplies, and tuition?"
"Just leave all that to your father and I."
"But?"
"Sweetie, you have truly earned it. Plus, how do you expect to continue to excel in your studies if you have to further divide your time?"
"While I would normally say that you have a valid point, I have to argue against it."
"Then you'll just get a tiny part-time job at the bookstore. Just enough hours for pocket money, okay?"
"Are you sure that he'll allow that?"
"We kind of already talked about it. I was afraid that you might want to add another activity to your already crammed schedule. I know that you can handle it, but I would much rather you commit yourself to what's truly important right now. You'll have plenty of time to work— once you've completed your education and get out in the field."
"Again mom, I would normally argue against you. But I'm actually inclined to agree with your reasoning. At least at this time, but is it so wrong for me to want to at the very least appear normal?"
"I know. So don't stress yourself out about finding a job. Finish your breakfast and take a few minutes to relax before training. Before you know it, the summer will be over and you'll be moving into your own place."
"It isn't really mine though," Mackenzie states as she takes another sip of tea. Her mother shakes her head, knowing how impossible it is to reason with her daughter once she has specific ideas in her head.
"Once you see your Watcher's salary, you'll be more than able to manage." Mackenzie smiles and gets up to put her dishes in the dishwasher.
"Thanks for everything mom. Oh, I happened to look at the course selection and I figure that if I major in linguistics with a minor in history I can use social sciences and sciences as my electives. So I'm glad that I didn't fight UC Sunnydale after all."
"I knew that you'd find a way to get what you wanted." Her mother winks at her and she bounds out of the kitchen and up the stairs to her bedroom to dress for the day.
The loud ring of the doorbell resonates throughout the house and Mackenzie quickly makes her way downstairs, pulling her ponytail into place. Opening the door open, she smiles at the man standing in front of her— Duncan dressed in grey sweatpants, a navy t-shirt, and black Nike running shoes.
"Good morning. Are we starting with a run?" she inquires and he nods.
"I thought that seeing it is such a beautiful day, we could run through the park before hitting the dojo to train."
"What's on the training agenda today?"
"I figured that some hand-to-hand is in order. Then I'd like to start you on the Katana." Her eyes nearly bug out of her head. "Well you are competent in a variety of swords at this time— the rapier, sabre, fencing foil, and long sword. I want you to have the chance to actually decide what you would like to work with yourself. I know you might just think the Katana and that's it, but you may find that you are more comfortable with another sword. We'll keep training until you find the one that best suits you— more specifically, your personal fighting style." He adds as she grabs her gym bag and a light jacket in case it gets chilly or decides to rain.
"See you later mom!" she calls loudly.
"Okay, call if you'll be missing dinner." Her mother's request one they were both used to hearing.
"Will do!" she should back as she closes the door behind her. She puts her bag in the trunk and they drive to the park for their run.
Halfway into their run, Mackenzie notices the beauty that surrounds them— something she hadn't had the time to actually enjoy when everything in her world had the tendency to fly by. Be it school, training, or spending time with her friends, which she quickly realises was generally spent indoors shopping or gossiping about things that truly didn't matter. As she ran, her mind slowly clears itself of the quasi-juvenile thoughts of high school and she allows her thoughts to shift towards that of the independent woman she has always aspired of becoming. She realises that her training and education will defiantly assist in the matter— what she hadn't planned on was the complications of real life getting in the way of what she thought had been well-established goals.
"Kenzie, we're here." Duncan's voice breaks through her thoughts and she slows down, then stops. In front of them is a bubbling brook, the water flowing freely cradled gently by the soft banks and caressing the rocks that peek up from what appears to be their strategically placed locations. Mother Nature is awesome, she sighs contently.
"Where is here exactly? I don't ever recall seeing this." She cannot wipe the huge grin from her lips. "This is beautiful."
"Isn't it? I stumbled upon it a few weeks ago and thought that you would like a bit of a reward. You're always going a mile a minute and it occurs to me that you don't take the time to truly enjoy your surroundings."
"I would have to say that that's not entirely true. While I realise that I have engaged in what can only be defined as genuine, teenage girl behaviour, I enjoy the simple things."
"Like what, for example?" he pushes.
"I enjoy sunsets and when I've pulled an all-nighter— sunrises are pretty darn nice too." She places a smug expression on her face. "Oh and there's always the time spent at the family cabin. I love to sit on the dock, dip my bare toes into the lake and just watch as the sun sinks behind the tree line. There is nothing quite like that." Her smile reflecting the memories she no doubt holds near to her heart.
"I know it probably isn't quite what you expected from me, but for me sometimes just spending time on my own away from the craziness that usually surrounds me is a treat worth taking advantage of."
"Yeah, I know what you mean. I'm so glad that you do manage to take some time out for normal things."
"If memory serves, wasn't it you who once said that I needed to slow down a bit?"
"I suppose. I'm just surprised that you took it to heart." His accent is as soothing as the brook. They take in their surrounding for a moment longer before silently agreeing to make the trek back to the car.
"The Katana is waiting!" Mackenzie declares enthusiastically, making a mad dash to the parking lot, Duncan not far behind.
"Hand-to-hand first!" he reminds her as they enter the dojo.
"Right, immortal self-defence training, then Watcher training this evening." She sighs with a smile. "I can hardly wait for all this training to be over."
"It never will be. At least not the immortal stuff." He puts his bag on a nearby bench.
"So Watcher training will end when I've received an assignment and I'm in the field."
"That you have to clear with Joe." He explains as they get their water bottles and towels ready. "Better stretch again, make sure you're limber enough—don't want to pull or strain a muscle." He instructs as she quickly warms up before stretching her long limbs.
"Ready?" he returns and they head towards a sparring space, blue mats placed together to create some cushion for whoever was going to hit the deck. She nods and they assume their fighting stances.
"You're dropping your shoulder." He instructs as she straightens and attempts the same move. "That's better." His smile affirms her correction. Another half an hour passes and they move onto the Katana. Duncan makes his way to the case and retrieves the Japanese sword.
"Folded seven hundred times, yes?" she says as she watches him wield the beautifully crafted ivory-handled blade. He holds it out towards her. She carefully accepts as she has done countless times before with others. Wow, she cannot stop herself from feeling a bit overwhelmed by the experience. Duncan stands closely and she can feel his breath on her skin as he carefully moves her body into the correct stance.
"There," he stands back satisfied, "how does that feel?"
"Different." She replies honestly with the realisation that it is indeed quite different from what she had been used to in the past. "I see why you left this one for last." She grins.
"There are many more. I just thought that you were ready to give it a try." He quickly retrieves his sword and stands beside her. "Now we begin." He moves with a power and grace so natural that she wonders if she will ever be as confident in her own abilities. Her doubts are quickly halted, as Duncan begins to instruct her in a kata— a choreographed pattern of movements that instils the proper technique in the individual, by linking together a series of strikes and parries. Mackenzie follows his graceful movements, enjoying the feeling that resonates throughout her body. And Duncan is not in the least surprised with her ease in picking up the fluidity of the movements while maintaining control and demonstrating her ability to learn quickly.
Bowing their mutual respect, Duncan smiles approvingly as he gently takes her blade, she heads towards their water bottles and returns handing him his.
"That was," she pauses trying to find the right words, "utterly amazing." Her smile reminds him of the first time Richie attempted the rapier— the sword that would become his choice, and he knew in an instant that Mackenzie had found hers in the katana. He wanted to tease her, see if she would admit to it, but somehow it didn't feel right.
"So when are we going shopping?" his question taking her off guard. She couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort with the blade— it had perfect balance and grace that felt totally right.
"I highly doubt my mother will be willing to allow me to invest in a sword Duncan. I mean, I know that it is part of my pending immortality, but won't she have a total cow?"
"Well actually," he moves towards the case he had placed the blade not long after their katas. "This is yours." He presents her with the case.
"You're kidding, right?" she gasps in disbelief.
"I had a feeling that this might be your preferred method of self-defence, should there ever come a day when you enter the game. Until then, consider it a gift for all of your hard work." His smile is contagious as she accepts the case and looks at the beautiful blade nestled within the deep navy velvet.
She runs her finger over the ivory carved grip, a dragon's head on the pommel similar to Duncan's.
"Are you serious?" she can hardly contain herself, shock and utter disbelief was written on her face. He nods his ascent.
"Your mother and Joe insisted that I do what I could to help you find your way. This is one of the ways I knew I could help." He chuckles softly as she closes the case.
"The scabbard is under the velvet. I'll teach you how to look after it properly. Once you have completed your full training, you will have to learn how to keep it concealed. Should you ever become an immortal, it is imperative that you have a means in which to defend yourself against other immortals."
"First of all, I want to remain mortal for as long as I possibly can."
"I know— your mother and father, as well as Joe, know you're pretty darn stubborn; however, you never know what your future holds." He takes a generous gulp of water from his water bottle and Mackenzie closes the case and places it down on the bench beside her. "I guess I should get you home for dinner?"
"Oh right! I have Watcher study after. You know it's never as fun as this." They have a good laugh while tidying the dojo, she packs her gym bag and they head to his car. "Too bad you couldn't help me with that too! Uncle Joe is great, don't get me wrong, but holy cow! Do you think university is going to be as boring?"
"I wouldn't know. I have several lectures already planned. Should I practice them out on you first?" they place her bag in the trunk and quickly makes his way to open the passenger door for her.
"Thanks and please don't. I've enrolled in your course."
"Why did you do that?" he inquires as they approach an intersection.
"Oh well, it was at the same time as the introduction to psychology."
"Professor Walsh's class? And I'm guessing it was full."
"Yeah, so I figured why not take your class? I won't trip you up, I promise. I'll just sit in the middle somewhere. Besides, you have a TA right?"
"Yes, so it shouldn't be a conflict of interest." She nods, not sure whether or not he sees or senses her response. "So what courses are you taking?"
"If memory serves, I'm taking a linguistics course. A few history courses, your class of course, and the mandatory course in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences."
"Is it just me, or are you nuts with making sure your plate is completely full?"
"I also want to take summer school, but I have to work out the details. You know? Be sure to have some time to visit family and hang with friends."
"So despite the fact that you're jam-packed, you are somehow seeking balance?"
"Exactly." She replies happily.
"What if you should happen to meet someone?"
"I'll just have to carefully fit him into everything else that I'm doing. I think the first week is Frosh Week, so I'm going to try and take advantage of the social gatherings and whatnot. Not too many of course, just enough to be seen, you know?"
"Yes, I do. I've seen many try the balance thing and fail. Just know that if you ever need someone to just vent to, I'll be there." He smiles pulling into the driveway.
"My parents are going to flip when they see this!" she exclaims.
"They understand the training that you have mastered, so this isn't going to be a surprise." She nods while removing her seatbelt. Duncan removes his seatbelt as well and they go collect her bag and case from the trunk.
"Would you like to join us for dinner? Perhaps you could stay and see what torture I endure for my Watcher training?"
"Perhaps you should check with your mom first."
"Come on! You'll be my guest." Without thought, she grabs his hand and pulls him up the steps to the front door. Mackenzie quickly slips the key into the lock and opens the door, stepping in she drops her gym bag on the floor under the hall table and carefully sets the case on the table before removing her shoes. Duncan follows suit and they head to the kitchen.
"Hey, mom." She greets her mother with a kiss on the cheek.
"Duncan! What a lovely surprise." Her mother smiles while checking on the roast. "Will you be joining us for dinner? I think Joe will be here as well. Mackenzie, you have Watcher training tonight, don't you?"
"Yes, mom." She fake rolls her eyes. "Oh, would it be okay if Duncan grabbed a quick shower before dinner? We left the dojo in a bit of a hurry to get home on time."
"Yes, of course, honey. There are fresh towels in the upstairs bathroom."
"Great!" she turns on her heels and pulls Duncan along with her, they retrieve their gym bags on the way upstairs. She leads him to the bathroom and enters first to pull the fresh towels from the cabinet.
"Thank you." He places his bag on the marble countertop smiling.
"No problem. I totally forgot about post-workout sweaty grossness." She replies making her way past him through the door and down the hall to her bedroom. "Catch you on the other side." She adds as he closes the door behind her.
Closing her bedroom door, she goes straight to her dresser and pulls out a fresh bra and panty set, socks and a t-shirt. She then saunters over to the closet and selects a pair of black casual pants and a cardigan. On her way to her bathroom, she pulls the elastic, freeing her hair and places it on the countertop. It is a quick shower and she stands in front of the mirror and quickly towel dries her hair and tames the loose waves into a braid. Dressing, she double checks her reflection in the full-length mirror in her bedroom to be sure she isn't a mess and makes her way back downstairs to find Duncan in the kitchen talking with her mother and Uncle Joe. As if they sense her entrance, they immediately stop their conversation.
"Hey there!" she says making her way to her uncle and hugging him tightly.
"Kenzie!" he returns her embrace and she sits at the island beside Duncan. "So I hear you have exceeded Duncan's expectations. Not that I wouldn't expect anything else." He winks as her mother finishes with making dinner.
"Mom, I'll set the table." She offers and moves to get the plates, stemware, and silverware.
"Thanks, honey." Her mother always enjoys having large dinner crowds. "You're father's home. I think he's in the den with Jason."
"I'll go say hey first then." It always amazes Duncan how young girls, who always appear to want to be more sophisticated than they actually are, can bound from point "A" to "B" with such ease. She pauses on the threshold, finding her father and brother deep in conversation. What is it with the seriousness? She muses.
"Hey dad!" she happily makes her way to her father and quickly hugs him tightly. Jason shakes his head with the 'suck up' expression on his face. "Duncan and Uncle Joe are here for dinner tonight." She informs them.
"Sounds like a full house this evening." He smiles and glances quickly at Jason, who is getting up.
"I should help mom." He reaches out and touches Mackenzie's shoulder.
"I was just going to set the table." She says, knitting her brows together a bit.
"Don't worry about it Kenzie. I got it." He leaves them alone to talk before dinner.
"Okay, dad. What's going on?" she inquires a bit nervous.
"Nothing for you to worry about." He replies casually.
"It doesn't quite look like nothing."
"You have way too much on your plate right now to be worrying about nothing." He smiles and stands. "Let's join them in the kitchen. And by the way, congratulations on choosing your sword." The look on her face is beyond priceless and her father cannot suppress the deep chuckle.
"How? You Knew?" her eyes widen in shock and disbelief.
"Honey, you're going to be a Watcher. That in itself is an honour, a history that I hope you respect. I happened to be talking with your mother and found out that you're a potential immortal as well. I'm not sure I've fully processed the implications, as I am sure you're well aware of the ins and outs; and right now I just want my little girl to be safe. If that means training with Duncan to ensure that, then that's what we're going to have you continue to do." He places his arm around her and gently squeezes her shoulder in a manner that helps illustrate his point. Mackenzie lets out the breath that she hadn't realised she had been holding. They wander to the kitchen to join the gathering.
Another wonderful meal with family, Mackenzie is almost sad that it has to end and she and Joe will retire to the study for her Watcher studies.
"Are you sure you wouldn't like a cup of coffee? Or Tea perhaps?" she asks Duncan as he helps her clear the table.
"I can see what you're trying to do." He shakes his head with a warm smile and she merely rolls her eyes and turns back to rinsing the dishes before loading them into the dishwasher.
"Aren't we going to discuss a training schedule?" she smiles innocently.
"Well, you and Joe get your Watcher studies done for this evening. Tomorrow is your off day if you like we can meet and discuss a few things then?" he suggests.
"That sounds good. I still have to work out when I have to move and all that jazz. Oh! Have you decided what you'll be doing?" she inquires as she closes the dishwasher and leans against the counter.
"I'll let you in on that tomorrow. I should have an answer this evening if I'm lucky." He replies as she plucks the washcloth from the sink and begins wiping the countertop. "Don't forget to schedule something fun for yourself this weekend. That's one of the main reasons I want you to have a rest day." He adds with a wink.
"Well, I usually end up studying. You do realise that I'm working on languages right?"
"And the reason being?" he cocks a deep chocolate brow.
"I thought it would help with reading the Watcher's journals. To truly understand what it means to be an immortal." She replies. "Besides, you never know when Aramaic, Babylonian, or something like that might come in handy."
"You already speak how many languages?"
"Only a few." She replies splashing water at him.
"Hey!"
"What?"
"Kenzie I saw that!" Jason smirks as he sets the placemats on the counter beside the sink to be shaken.
"Saw what?" she innocently turns to help with getting the crumbs off the mats.
"Thanks. Joe is in the study with dad. He's ready to begin your lesson."
"Okay, be right there. Duncan, we'll finish this discussion tomorrow. Say around two at Starbucks?"
"Sounds like a plan." He replies as she quickly hugs him, turns on her heel and makes her way to the study.
"I'm all ready for today's lesson," Mackenzie announces her entrance as she steps into the handsomely decorated room. She cannot help but think of how it always makes her feel as though she's just stepped out of one time period into another. The deep mahogany furnishings, floor to ceiling bookcases line two walls, large windows with velvet cushions, silk pillows, and deep hunter green drapes, French doors that open to the side garden, an Italian marble fireplace over which a family portrait hangs. The grandiose desk sits proudly as the focal point of the room, a Persian rug over the deep hardwood floor and leather club chairs with a small coffee table sit in front of the fireplace. Joe occupies a chair in front of her father's desk as her father sits and shuffles through some papers.
"Mackenzie, it's all yours." He smiles broadly and tucks the files under his arm.
"Thanks, dad. I'll see you later?"
"Of course, there's a CSI marathon or something on tonight." He can't help the proud smile as he closes the door behind, leaving them to their lesson. Mackenzie sighs loudly crossing her arms across her chest and leaning against the grand desk.
"So where are we starting?" she inquires waiting for direction.
"You have done all your readings— we have gone through the handbook time and again. Let's see." Joe rises from the chair he occupied and begins to pace. "How are your language studies coming along?"
"Actually, quite well Uncle. I have managed to translate two Watcher journals. There is an odd common factor among them." She pauses. "I've heard of Methos, but honestly thought that he was just a myth— a legend if you will. However, both texts make reference to said immortal. They cite him as being the oldest known and perhaps even first known immortal."
"Ah yes, Methos. I thought you would eventually come across him."
"Why have you never mentioned him before?" she gives him 'that look', only a look uniquely hers, one he has yet to truly figure out. He had never seen his sister give him that look and thought perhaps it was one of her father's.
"That's one of the mean reasons for giving you those texts." He says casually.
"Uncle Joe, when will my Watcher training be complete?"
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you." He smiles brightly. In that moment she knows that something very interesting is about to happen.
"Well, seeing that you have excelled in your studies, I have put in a request to the Watchers Council that you begin your career in the research department. That way, you're not in the field; and you'll be able to continue your education."
"Are you serious?" she exclaims happily.
"That's what I was discussing with your father. You're mother and I both feel that you are more than well-equipped and he also agrees, that providing it doesn't interfere with your studies, training, and yes; your social life, you ought to have the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the Watchers Council. That way you will be able to enjoy any opportunity that may arise." Joe smiles proudly as she springs from her perch against the desk and launches herself into his arms.
"Oh my goodness! Thank you!" she shrieks happily. "So does that conclude this evening's lesson?"
"Well, my dear. I believe it does. But that doesn't give you the leeway to shirk your duty. You will, of course, continue in your studies and more importantly, your training with Duncan. I want to make sure that you are safe." Joe's voice betrays him slightly as she pulls gently from his embrace and kisses his cheek.
"I'll always be careful. And just know I won't let you down. I'm dismissed right?" her question answered with a curt nod.
"Take some time for yourself tonight." He says with a twinkle in his eyes. She bounds towards the door and opens it with such gusto that Joe wonders if it will pull away from the hinges as she happily makes her way upstairs to her bedroom for some much-deserved personal time.
"I gather your lesson went well?" her mother says quietly from the door.
"Janelle, you know your daughter almost better then she knows herself." He replies with a grin.
"Thank you for all of your time and effort to prepare her for her role. I know that she will step confidently into it."
"You know she will." He says as she nods her ascent. "Besides, I will do my best to keep tabs on her." He winks as they exit the office.
"Are you sure you won't have a cup of coffee or something? She asks as they walk into the foyer.
"I'm good thanks. I better head over to the bar though. I have a set tonight."
"Yes of course. We will further discuss the move."
"Come by tomorrow and we'll work out the kinks. I managed to also procure a one bedroom loft in the complex, so I will be nearby should she need help. Although I have the sneaking suspicion that she will be just fine. You and Tony have raised her to be an independent young woman, and I'm sure that she will get through whatever life throws at her."
"I cannot help but worry about the immortal thing."
"I wouldn't. She seems hell-bent on maintaining her mortality." He replies as he opens the door. "Just know that she'll be fine whatever happens." He adds, quickly hugging her. "Good night."
"Good night Joe." She watches as he makes his way, cane in hand, down the steps towards his car, gets in and drives off before closing the door.
The next morning, Mackenzie awakens with the warmth of the sun caressing her face through the open curtains. Through her smile, she cannot help but wonder if she had closed them last night as she rolls onto her side and checks the time on the alarm clock sitting on the bedside table. While it would probably be a good idea to go for an early morning run, she decides to get up and make pancakes for breakfast instead. Tossing the comforter and sheets from her body, she swings her legs over the edge of the bed and sits up. Standing, she stretches and quietly pads to her bathroom to perform her regular morning ritual before heading downstairs to the kitchen.
"Something smells absolutely delish!" Jason exclaims as he heads to the fridge for a glass of orange juice. "You want?" he asks hoping to score a pancake in return.
"Sure, you want?" she knows the game and expertly slides the pancake from the pan onto a plate. She sets it on the island counter and he grabs utensils for them and sets the glasses of juice along with the utensils on the countertop. She ladles a generous helping of batter into the hot pan as Jason sits and loads butter on the pancake, then syrup.
"I'll make eggs and some bacon once we've had our pancakes. That way you don't have to do all the cooking." He says as she flips the pancake.
"That sounds good." She replies and finishes, slides the fluffy pancake onto the plate and sets it at her place.
"So big plans for the day?" he inquires before shoving another buttery, syrupy bite into his mouth.
"I'm meeting Duncan for coffee to discuss moving plans and whatnot." She replies casually.
"Where are you going to train?"
"I suppose at the university until we can find a more suitable location." Her reply is simple and she watches as he gets up, makes his way to the fridge to gather the bacon and eggs.
"Toast too?" he grabs the loaf of bread before she can answer, puts four slices into the toaster slots, and presses the lever. She just rolls her eyes and at his assumption. "Sounds like a good idea." He manages with a laugh.
"I forgot to mention that my official Watcher training is finally over!"
"Really? That's a good thing right?"
"Yeah, no more boring stuff. I get to do research now." He lays bacon in one pan and cracks eggs into another.
"That sounds really interesting, so you're not in the field yet?"
"Thankfully no." Her reply came as a surprise to him.
"I thought you'd want to get out there and do your thing."
"Well, at first I did— I do, I just want a chance to be normal. Get through my studies first, you know?"
"See?"
"See what?"
"You are way smarter than I." His laugh is contagious. "I'm so glad that you're going to be the Watcher in the family. I don't think I could take the pressure."
"Geez, thanks." She sighs and they eat the rest of breakfast. "Oh, are you shooting hoops today?"
"Nope, just chilling." He replies happily. "Isn't that something you're supposed to be doing?" he says as he takes a gulp of orange juice.
"I guess. It's just that I find that my mind doesn't quite cooperate with that concept very well."
"Just find a good book and park it by the pool."
"Actually, a swim does sound like a good idea." Her lips curl into a crooked smile.
"I didn't say swim. I said vegetate by the pool. You know? In a chaise lounge, a good book, sunscreen, a big bouncy hat, your huge sunglasses that nearly cover your face and perhaps a tall glass of iced tea?"
"Hey, I get the concept." Her smile broadens and she tries to think of how to fit it into her day. "Just not exactly sure I can manage that today is all." She sighs and finishes her breakfast.
"I got it." He reaches across for her plate and glass."
"Thanks." She gets up and heads upstairs to get ready for the day. In her mind, Mackenzie goes over what she wants to get done; and finds herself wondering if its' entirely possible to achieve balance in her bursting with activity life. Sure, I can do anything I set my mind to— she muses happily as she brushes her teeth, washes her face, and plugs in the flatiron. Running straitening serum over her thick hair, she rinses her hands before picking up the flatiron and running it slowly, deliberately down her shoulder-length locks. She quickly finishes and glances at her reflection once more to be sure that she's satisfied with the result. Perfect, she thinks to herself as she walks into her bedroom to make the bed and dress for the day. She opens her dresser drawer to pluck a cute matching set of undergarments and turns her attention to the closet where she pulls out a clean pair of dark jeans, a black tank top, and a crisp Oxford shirt and quickly dresses.
Mackenzie bounds down the stairs and nearly runs into her mother.
"Hey mom, are you going to the market this morning?"
"I thought that I would pick up a few things. I have a new recipe that I want to try for dinner tonight." She replies as she opens her purse and retrieves her wallet to check if she needs to stop at the bank on the way. "Did you want to join me?"
"Mother-daughter time is always great. You know that mom." She retrieves her purse from the hook under her light jacket as they head out the door. On their way to the market, Mackenzie's mind starts to wonder— she attempts to mentally articulate her thoughts and feelings about moving to Sunnydale.
"Mom." She says finally breaking the silence.
"Yes, honey?"
"May I ask you something?"
"Of course Maxi." She replies, using a nickname that she hasn't used in quite a while which makes the whole process that much more difficult.
"Wow! There's a nickname I haven't heard in a very long time." She pauses and recalls the origin of the nickname— it happened to come from a soap opera that she used to like when she was in junior high school and her wanting to be a fashion designer like the character on the show. "Anyways," she begins "this condo in Sunnydale?"
"Is Yours. Your father and I thought that it would be good for you to have a place of your own. Somewhere you will feel safe and comfortable. We looked at the studio flats, the one bedroom lofts, but somehow felt that you needed a larger space. I know that it's a bit overwhelming to suddenly find yourself alone. But really you're not." She pulls up to an intersection and slows the SUV to a stop.
"Uncle Joe found a loft in the complex." Her mother nods her ascent. "But isn't it unfair to Jason?"
"Not in the least. Honey, don't worry." Her mother turns into the parking lot and pulls into a vacant spot. "You're father and I want to make things a bit easier for you. You have done an amazing job with your academic studies, your Watcher duty and your training."
Mom, please don't be offended, but I was thinking." She pauses and undoes the seatbelt. "I'm technically employed by the Watchers Council. I will be receiving a wage."
"You can use that for whatever you want sweetie." Her mother removes her seatbelt and opens the door, Mackenzie follows and they head towards the main doors to the market.
"But mom, I want to put something towards the condo." She states, her independent streak emerging.
"Why don't you wait and see whether you like it or not."
"All this wait and see is absolutely killing me!" she exclaims dramatically with a hand on her forehead.
"Just think of it this way. You've more than earned it."
"Fine, I'll leave this conversation as it is. At this point, I shall merely agree to disagree." She gives her mother one of her million watt smiles. "I'm going to check out the jewellery." She declares happily. "Where shall I meet you?"
"I'll come find you and then we'll take our purchases home and go out for lunch?"
"That sounds like a really awesome plan. And mom?"
"Yes?"
"Maybe when I get back from coffee, I can help with dinner?"
"Of course." Her mother replies as they part ways.
Thankfully, the nice weather held as Mackenzie pulls into a parking slot nearby the Starbucks. She walks briskly down the crowded street towards the coffeehouse. At least we can sit outside for a change, she thinks as she smiles brightly when she sees Duncan waiting for her just outside the patio.
"Hey." She tilts her head up to see his expression better. He's smiling as usual.
"Hey. Shall we?" he gently cups her elbow and leads her inside, holding the door for her. They stand quietly in line perusing the overhead menu and order their beverages.
"Would it be okay if we sat outside?" she inquires, he nods his response and they make their way to the outdoor patio. While she wears her oversized sunglasses, he wears a pair that suits his strong features— she knows that she will not be able to hide anything from him. Besides her family, he knew her better than anyone.
"So let's cut right to it." She says as they settle themselves in their seats— she places her coffee on the table. "I'm sure that you know exactly what the situation is." Duncan sits back comfortably in his seat.
"I hadn't realised that you were looking into buying another dojo with a loft. I thought that you might stay with me until you found what you wanted. Not that I want to cramp your style or anything like that." She adds.
"Actually, I'm going to stay with Joe for about a month or so— while the renovations are completed." He picks up the tall paper cup and sips the hot liquid carefully to avoid scalding his lips and mouth.
"Oh. I see." Her voice falters a bit.
"I spoke with your parents and Joe about it. We just think its best that you continue to maintain your independence. I really don't want you to become so dependent on anyone that you lose a sense of who you are. Always remember that you are an amazing, strong, ambitious young woman."
"But it's a three bedroom condo. Isn't it a little big for little me? And isn't it on the expensive side for my parents to say, 'here sweetie, you earned it'?"
"While I have to agree with you on that point, I also agree with them in wanting you to have a place in which you can settle comfortably." He pauses in thought and leans in towards her. "Believe me when I say this. You'll love it. And once you're settled in, you'll quickly agree with them." She smiles and reaches out across the table to squeeze his hand to let him know that his words have reassured her in the next steps of her journey.
Arriving home, Mackenzie shrugs out of her light jacket, hangs it on the hook along with her purse and heads to the kitchen to see if her mother needs her help with preparing dinner.
"How was coffee?"
"Great! I get it now. Thanks, mom." She hugs her mother before turning around to wash her hands, "What can I do?"