DCH 17

Defenders Chronicles: Highlander

By AmandaDoE

Chapter Seventeen: More Than Friends?

Richie looked up as Tori walked in his apartment.

"Are you about ready?" she asked.

He stood up from his seat and smiled, "Of course."

They walked out of the apartment and made their way out of the building.

"So, I was talking with my mom recently," Tori spoke up.

"What did Slammin Janet have to say?" Richie asked.

"I'll tell you when we have our lunch," Tori answered, "but it's something she's looking into once Duncan informs you that you have to go out on your own, and training with him is over."

Richie sighed nervously. He wasn't exactly looking forward to the time when Duncan told him that his training was over, and when he had to go out on his own.

Suddenly, they both sensed the Buzz. The T Bird pulled up, and it was Duncan.

"Mac," Richie greeted his teacher.

"You guys going on a date?" Duncan couldn't help but to ask.

"It's not a romantic date, Mac," Tori stated, crossing her arms.

"Yeah," Richie added, "we're not boyfriend – girlfriend. What makes you think that?"

"Uh huh, sure," Duncan nodded, unconvinced, "I recognize that you look you give Tori sometimes. Tori, you show it too."

"What?!" Richie and Tori exclaimed simultaneously.

"We are fond of each other," Tori stated.

"That's right, Mac," Richie added, "We like each other, but it's not love."

"Why should I believe either of you?" Duncan retorted.

"Do you have somewhere to go?" Tori crossed her arms, annoyed.

"I have to meet Charlie at the dojo," Duncan answered, "I'll catch you love birds around."

With that he drove off.

"Come on, Mac!" Richie exclaimed, "We're not love birds!"

"Let it go, Richie," Tori gently grabbed his arm, "we should head over to the cafe."

Richie sighed, annoyed. Then he took a deep breath and nodded, "Let's get going."

He got his helmet on, and Tori did the same before they got on his motorbike and drove off.


-Defenders-Chronicles-Highlander-


Tori was seated in front of Richie after they got their drinks, and they were looking at the menu.

"So, what was it that your mother talked to you about?" Richie asked.

"She's noticed the work you helped me and MacLeod with lately has been quite impressive since she last saw you," Tori answered, "and after Duncan decides that your training with him is over, and it's time for you to go out on your own, she's thinking about making you a part of our agency."

Richie looked on in surprise, "How does she know..."

"Well," Tori glanced at him, "Mom has a feeling that it is a matter of time before that day comes. God forbid actually because I enjoy spending time with you guys. You, MacLeod, Charlie. You get the idea."

"Yeah," Richie nodded, "I think I get the idea."

"You two ready to place your orders?" the waitress asked as she walked over to their table.

"Yeah," Richie answered, "I believe we are."

"Of course we are," Tori added before they proceeded to place their orders.


-Defenders-Chronicles-Highlander-


Joe heard a knock on the door. He opened it and it was Duncan. He welcomed the Highlander into the room.

"So, what brings you here?" Joe asked.

"I'm having some issue regarding my student and another Immortal," Duncan answered, "a small one at that."

"What do you mean some issue?" Joe asked as he walked over to the couch.

"Richie and Tori seem to be closer to each other," Duncan answered, "more than just an Immortal friendship, and I think they're more than just friends, but they're obviously denying it."

"It's obvious they're going to deny it, MacLeod," Joe stated as he looked at Duncan as he was seated on the couch next to his Watcher, "Tori Gordon has been Immortal for over a year now, and Richie is a new Immortal. He's probably turning to her for some support outside of a teacher – student bonding."

"I never said they wouldn't deny it, Joe," Duncan retorted, "I also never said he was looking for support either."

"Well, what did you expect them to say?" Joe asked, annoyed, "Did you expect them to say, 'Oh, it's obvious, clear as day that we are both a couple.'"

Duncan tried to open his mouth a few times, which lead to a pause of silence.

"Listen," Joe sighed as he continued, "I don't know Richie that well, as he is a new Immortal, and I barely know Tori outside the IUA who locked up my brother in law before we first met. I am just telling you what I know what goes on through a young person's mind."

"You were young once," Duncan stated.

"So were you."

"Point taken."

"Here's what I can tell you regarding both Richie and Tori," Joe proceeded to give Duncan some advice, "For the time being, let them be. If they want to be involved with each other in a romantic relationship, then they will make it official. Just give them time."

"I will keep that in mind," Duncan nodded.


-Defenders-Chronicles-Highlander-


Charlie noticed Tori and Richie walking into the dojo together.

"Well," Charlie quipped, "How are the love birds doing today?"

"We're not love birds, Charlie," Richie stated.

"How come I see you guys holding hands?" Charlie asked.

Tori and Richie noticed each other holding hands before they broke apart.

"My bad," Tori stated.

"It's all right," Richie nodded.

"I see how you guys are," Charlie stated, "I even notice you two looking at each other lately too."

"Really now?" Tori glanced at him.

"You guys have that smitten look," Charlie stated, "holding hands, and MacLeod said you guys had lunch at a cafe the other day."

"I just had to talk to him about something important," Tori spoke up.

"And what's that?" Charlie asked.

"Something regarding my Mom and the IUA," Tori answered, "a possible job opportunity for Richie in the foreseeable future."

"Oh, that's great," Charlie replied, "I hope you get whatever job it is you talked about."

"Me too," Tori stated with a smile, "My mom is thinking about having him join the IUA."

"I hope it works out," Charlie said.

"Thanks," Richie replied before he announced, "Now, Tori and I are going to work out."

"Lover's Work out, huh?" Charlie stated.

"We're not lovers!" Tori exclaimed.

"Sure," Charlie muttered as they walked away from view, "not lovers yet."

---------

Author's Commentary:

Richie looked up as Tori walked in his apartment.

"Are you about ready?" she asked.

He stood up from his seat and smiled, "Of course."

They walked out of the apartment and made their way out of the building.

"So, I was talking with my mom recently," Tori spoke up.

"What did Slammin Janet have to say?" Richie asked.

"I'll tell you when we have our lunch," Tori answered, "but it's something she's looking into once Duncan informs you that you have to go out on your own, and training with him is over."

Richie sighed nervously. He wasn't exactly looking forward to the time when Duncan told him that his training was over, and when he had to go out on his own.

Suddenly, they both sensed the Buzz. The T Bird pulled up, and it was Duncan.

"Mac," Richie greeted his teacher.

"You guys going on a date?" Duncan couldn't help but to ask.

"It's not a romantic date, Mac," Tori stated, crossing her arms.

"Yeah," Richie added, "we're not boyfriend – girlfriend. What makes you think that?"

"Uh huh, sure," Duncan nodded, unconvinced, "I recognize that you look you give Tori sometimes. Tori, you show it too."

"What?!" Richie and Tori exclaimed simultaneously.

"We are fond of each other," Tori stated.

"That's right, Mac," Richie added, "We like each other, but it's not love."

"Why should I believe either of you?" Duncan retorted.

"Do you have somewhere to go?" Tori crossed her arms, annoyed.

"I have to meet Charlie at the dojo," Duncan answered, "I'll catch you love birds around."

With that he drove off.

"Come on, Mac!" Richie exclaimed, "We're not love birds!"

"Let it go, Richie," Tori gently grabbed his arm, "we should head over to the cafe."

Richie sighed, annoyed. Then he took a deep breath and nodded, "Let's get going."

He got his helmet on, and Tori did the same before they got on his motorbike and drove off.

This scene along with the cafe scene would take place during the episode "Run For Your Life." This would also play a little foreshadowing, not only for the next few chapters after this one, but what will happen during the Season 3 arc. Oh boy, I am looking forward to putting that into full circle.


"She's noticed the work you helped me and MacLeod with lately has been quite impressive since she last saw you," Tori answered, "and after Duncan decides that your training with him is over, and it's time for you to go out on your own, she's thinking about making you a part of our agency."

Richie looked on in surprise, "How does she know..."

"Well," Tori glanced at him, "Mom has a feeling that it is a matter of time before that day comes. God forbid actually because I enjoy spending time with you guys. You, MacLeod, Charlie. You get the idea."

"Yeah," Richie nodded, "I think I get the idea."

This scene is also a foreshadowing of the next few chapters after this one. If you have watched the actual Highlander: the Series, then you should know what happens regarding Richie Ryan. Tori also has a solid friendship with MacLeod as well as being fond of Charlie.


"Richie and Tori seem to be closer to each other," Duncan answered, "more than just an Immortal friendship, and I think they're more than just friends, but they're obviously denying it."

"It's obvious they're going to deny it, MacLeod," Joe stated as he looked at Duncan as he was seated on the couch next to his Watcher, "Tori Gordon has been Immortal for over a year now, and Richie is a new Immortal. He's probably turning to her for some support outside of a teacher – student bonding."

"I never said they wouldn't deny it, Joe," Duncan retorted, "I also never said he was looking for support either."

"Well, what did you expect them to say?" Joe asked, annoyed, "Did you expect them to say, 'Oh, it's obvious, clear as day that we are both a couple.'"

Duncan tried to open his mouth a few times, which lead to a pause of silence.

"Listen," Joe sighed as he continued, "I don't know Richie that well, as he is a new Immortal, and I barely know Tori outside the IUA who locked up my brother in law before we first met. I am just telling you what I know what goes on through a young person's mind."

"You were young once," Duncan stated.

"So were you."

"Point taken."

"Here's what I can tell you regarding both Richie and Tori," Joe proceeded to give Duncan some advice, "For the time being, let them be. If they want to be involved with each other in a romantic relationship, then they will make it official. Just give them time."

"I will keep that in mind," Duncan nodded.

The entire scene here is set during the episode "Epitaph for Tommy." Joe has not fully met Richie or Tori during this time, and he is kinda annoyed to be giving out young love advice to Duncan, who is essentially a father to Richie.


Charlie noticed Tori and Richie walking into the dojo together.

"Well," Charlie quipped, "How are the love birds doing today?"

"We're not love birds, Charlie," Richie stated.

"How come I see you guys holding hands?" Charlie asked.

Tori and Richie noticed each other holding hands before they broke apart.

"My bad," Tori stated.

"It's all right," Richie nodded.

"I see how you guys are," Charlie stated, "I even notice you two looking at each other lately too."

"Really now?" Tori glanced at him.

"You guys have that smitten look," Charlie stated, "holding hands, and MacLeod said you guys had lunch at a cafe the other day."

"I just had to talk to him about something important," Tori spoke up.

"And what's that?" Charlie asked.

"Something regarding my Mom and the IUA," Tori answered, "a possible job opportunity for Richie in the foreseeable future."

"Oh, that's great," Charlie replied, "I hope you get whatever job it is you talked about."

"Me too," Tori stated with a smile, "My mom is thinking about having him join the IUA."

"I hope it works out," Charlie said.

"Thanks," Richie replied before he announced, "Now, Tori and I are going to work out."

"Lover's Work out, huh?" Charlie stated.

"We're not lovers!" Tori exclaimed.

"Sure," Charlie muttered as they walked away from view, "not lovers yet."

This scene is set during the episode "The Fighter." Even Charlie can tell there is something going on between Richie Ryan and Tori Gordon even though they are denying it. More foreshadowing is taking place here.

---------

Next

Previous

Article

Author

Chapters

1: Prelude To A Storm

Tori Gordon, a teenage operative for the Intergalactic Union Agency, transfers to a branch in Washington State, where she becomes involved in a battle between supernatural forces.

2: Chance Encounter

While reflecting on personal matters, Tori witnesses a stunning occurrence.

3: Changes

Richie introduces Tori to his friends, Duncan and Tessa, who detail the secret affairs of immortals.

4: Questions & Answers

As Tori begins learning more about her true nature, a teacher offers assistance.

5: Prelude To A Storm

Tori informs the Defenders that she plans to help Duncan and his companions.

6: Swift Action

Tori and Richie continue bonding as the IUA works with Duncan.

7: Paris Bound

Tori is given a new task by her mother Janet.

8: Past Teacher Surprise

Duncan and the group encounter Tori's teacher, Amanda. Tori learns that Duncan and Amanda have history.

9: Two Families, One Adventure

The Defenders arrive in Paris, where they unite with Tori's team.

10: Care and Comfort

Tori tends to an ailing Richie.

11: The Hunters

The group gains allies while investigating a new matter.

12: The Watchers

The search for Horton begins.

13: Vendetta

An old friend of Tori's reveals a darker side. Janet becomes involved in the current operation.

14: The Darkness

Duncan is told to be wary of a dark prophesy.

15: An Eye For An Eye

The team is menaced by Annie Devlin, an old associate of Duncan's.

16: Teacher, Teacher

Duncan begins refining Tori's skills.

17: More Than Friends?

Richie and Tori continue bonding.

18: Richie

A new woman comes into Richie's life.

19: New on the Job

Janet takes steps to make Richie an IUA operative. 

20: Immortal Task

Tori and her allies confront a number of enemies in the city.

21: A Day at the Beach

The teams head out for a day of fun.

22: Suspended Sabotage

Rick's capture leads to a compromising situation as LJ and the others attempt a rescue.

23: The Madam Weds

Lucy, a dangerous immortal, targets Richie. Tori intervenes.

24: Clouded Issues

The IUA investigates when one of the Phantom's acquaintances is victimized by an immortal.

25: Framed

Richie and Tori return to Paris to assist with the mission, which is complicated by police involvement.

26: Game of Peril

Duncan meets a woman who bears a strong resemblance to Tessa.

27: Can't Help Falling In Love

Kern, a vindictive old associate, returns to challenge Duncan.

28: Obsession

Duncan attempts to work with the unstable David Keogh.

29: Not Quite Fine

Charlie prepares to depart.

30: Unwanted Advances

The group meet a girl named Michelle, who has just discovered her immortal nature.

31: The Child

Tori and Richie attempt to care for a younger boy named Kenny.

32: Halloween Incident

Everyone prepares for a holiday.

33: Shadows

A mysterious statue creates chaos.

34: They Also Serve

Joe and the team find others in need of their help.

35: State of Mind

Jedda and Tori have an intimate conversation.

36: Song of the Executioner

Kalas haunts Richie and the others.

37: Star-Crossed

Duncan prepares for battle with Kalas and finds a surprise.

38: The Mystery of Methos

Kalas searches for Methos.

39: Astral Richie

Tori worries as Richie begins taking chances.

40: Double Jeopardy

Anne arrives.

41: The Exorcism of Richie Ryan

Richie requires assistance in getting back to normal. 

42: Out of the Frying Pan

The Defenders step in to assist with Kalas, and to help prevent the truth about Duncan's kind from leaking.

43: Into the Fire

Duncan prepares to confront Kalas.

44: Home, Friends, & Family

Duncan embarks on a private journey to Scotland. Jedda and Tori spar before an audience.

45: Walking On Shattered Glass

Duncan tries to intervene as Charlie clashes with Cord.

46: Of Mice and Men

The current situation reminds Tori of a well-known scenario.

47: Good Intentions

Amanda and Richie follow Duncan on a journey in secret, and end up defending themselves from a horde of ice robots.

48: The Return of Kenny

The friends see Kenny again. Duncan suspects that a certain immortal is pursuing the child.

49: Nightmares

Seacouver is targeted by an ambitious supernatural woman named Sierra.

50: Between Black & White

Duncan, Tori, and Richie investigate a matter from Duncan's past alongside the police.

51: Culture Clashed

The group is challenged by a charismatic new antagonist, Kamir.

52: Witch

The spellcaster Kristin Gilles arrives and pursues Richie. Mandrake offers assistance in thwarting her.

53: Facing the Music

Duncan and his friends attempt to aid a pianist.

54: Rescue Mission

Anne and Jack participate in the latest endeavor.

55: Darkest Before The Dawn

Duncan falls under a dark influence temporarily.

56: Cruising Storytellers

Methos and the others reflect.

57: The Mongo Adventure

The exploits of Flash and his famed allies from Mongo are chronicled. Meanwhile, Zorelda reemerges.

58: Storytellers

The team members engage in sparring and storytelling during downtime.

59: Judgment Day

The groups attempt to rescue Joe, who has been lured into a trap.

60: One Minute To Midnight

As tensions rise and truths are revealed, the team bands together in their effort to help Joe.

61: Deja Vu Proposal

Richie makes a monumental decision.

62: Set In Motion

As Tori and Richie prepare for the big day, opposing forces on Mongo makes plans of their own.

63: Reunion

Katarina and Castra attempt to unite with the Defenders before Zorelda makes her move.

64: Zorelda Strikes

Zorelda arrives on Earth.

65: Setting Up The Rescue Mission

The groups outline their rescue effort.

66: Making Way To Mongo

Zorelda begins enacting her plan for Richie.

67: Mongo Showdown — Part One

Methos and Duncan engage in action on Mongo.

68: Mongo Showdown — Part Two

As the battle continues, Tori confronts Zorelda.

69: Loose Ends Tied

The group deals with the repercussions of their adventure and return to Earth.

70: Prophetic Summit Meeting

Duncan's ally, Cassandra, relays a vision.

71: Transition To Marriage

Tori and Richie encounter a cult. Duncan pursues Clay.

72: Jenny

The Ryans foster a mysterious child who bears a resemblance to Tori.

73: A Friend Indeed

Amanda and Maurice return as a new enigma arises.

74: Money No Object

Amanda engages in more questionable activity.

75: Haunted

The group tries helping a woman who might be stalked by an old acquaintance of Duncan's.

76: All That Glitters Is Not Golden

Richie seeks to assist a childhood friend who's dealing with legal issues.

77: The Messenger

The Ryans encounter an apparent impostor, who also approaches Hadea.

78: Comes a Horseman

An adversary known as Kronos targets Tori, seeking to exploit her intellect.

79: Revelation 6:8

Richie and Duncan move to counter Kronos.

80: The Ransom of Richard Redstone

The Ryans depart for an undercover mission overseas.

81: Duende

The group make new acquaintances while pursuing a lead tied to a mysterious dancing event.

82: Forgive Us Our Trespass

The enigmatic Keane arrives, wreaking havoc on several people's lives.

83: Before The Oncoming Storm

Duncan deals with a mischievous adversary named Byron. Jedda and Rick prepare for parenthood. Both Katarina and Jedda sense danger ahead.

84: The Summoning of Ahriman

Ming and Octon turn to a new ally.

85: More Trouble Rears In

Duncan is haunted.

86: More Clues Emerge

The shape-shifter initiates a confrontation.

87: The Walls Closing In

Ming shifts his focus to an isolated girl.

88: Divided Loyalties

The Defenders unite with Tori's friends in an effort to stop Ahriman.

89: The Trap Is Set

A climactic battle occurs as the Defenders clash with Ming, while Tori and Richie attempt to aid their friends.

90: Aftermath: The World Changes Forever

Everyone is affected by the recent events, which will have lasting repercussions.

91: One Year Later

Richie copes. Duncan travels overseas.

92: Arrivals and Tasks

Joe, Amanda, and Duncan continue to hunt the enemy.

93: To Find Richie

April locates Richie and provides an update on the current situation.

94: Double Summoning

Richie is confronted by the opponent again.

95: The Blinding Truth

Joe leads the investigation as everyone bands together.

96: Last Temptation

The final clash begins.

97: Crunch Time

Duncan makes a crucial discovery.

98: Ahriman Tries To Bargain

The key element to the plan is obtained.

99: The Crumbling Falling Gap

The team proceeds with their endeavor.

100: The Last Stand — Part One

The group discovers that only one person can assist Duncan.

101: The Last Stand — Part Two

The battle reaches a conclusion.

102: The Demise of Ahriman

Series finale.

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