DCH 27
Defenders Chronicles: Highlander
By AmandaDoE
Chapter Twenty-Seven: Can't Help Falling In Love
Tori swung some punches and kicks at the punching bag. She looked over as she saw Duncan jump roping and Charlie bench pressing weights. She turned as Richie entered the dojo.
"Mac, I gotta talk to you," Richie said as he appeared to be very happy about something.
"Let me know when you've found the formula," Duncan replied as he was skipping rope.
"Formula?" Richie glanced at him, confused.
"For getting in shape without training," Duncan elaborated further.
"Aw, I'm sorry, Mac," Richie replied, "I know I'm late, but uh, something came up."
Duncan stopped skipping as Richie moved close, "It's not one of us. Donna. Remember Donna?"
"No," Duncan answered. Tori shook her head, assuming it was a time before she got involved with the immortals full time. She proceeded to grab a bottle of water and drink from it.
"Well, anyway," Richie stated, "anyway, she's back in town."
"That's nice," Duncan replied before resuming skipping rope.
"She brought someone with her," Richie continued. Tori asked, "Really now?"
She took another sip of water.
"Grab a rope," Duncan told him.
"Mac, she brought my son," Richie stated. Tori instantly choked a bit on her water.
"Your what?" Duncan glanced at him, and she glanced at him in shock.
"Richie, man, did I hear you right?" Charlie asked as he joined in on the group, "You saying you got a kid?"
"Yeah, a son, actually," Richie answered. Tori shook her head.
"Hey, well, congratulations, man," Charlie replied before looking at Duncan and Tori, "That is good news, right?"
"Yeah, yeah," Tori shook her head again before taking another sip of water.
"Yeah," Richie chimed in, "yeah, it's fantastic."
"No, man, that's great!" Charlie exclaimed happily, "Isn't that great, MacLeod?"
"It's unbelievable," Duncan replied, nonchalantly.
"Yeah, well, look," Charlie glanced at Richie, "When you're passing out the cigars, you save one for me, all right?"
"You got it, Charlie," Richie replied.
"A son! All right," Charlie was clearly happy for him.
"Thanks, man," Richie replied before Charlie walked away from the area, leaving Tori, Duncan and Richie together. Richie then grabbed the rope from Duncan as it swung by, "Aren't you going to say something?"
Duncan gave him a look and walked off, Tori followed suit and Richie followed them as they made their way to the loft.
"Donna's made a mistake," Duncan told Richie, "Whoever the father is, it's not yours. Here."
He tossed Richie an apple.
"Immortals can't have children," Tori stated, "we're essentially sterile."
"Exactly," Richie replied, "This happened before I became Immortal!"
"That's not the way it works," Duncan replied.
"Maybe I'm the first," Richie stated in denial.
"I wish it could happen," Duncan stressed, "but it's not in the cards. We don't get to live happily ever after. Children aren't part of our lives. It can't happen."
"It just did," Richie replied, as he set the apple down, "I'll see you guys later."
"Maybe he should ask her for a DNA test," Tori suggested, "if she insists that Richie is her kid's father so badly."
"Maybe we can suggest that to him," Duncan replied.
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Richie looked down at Jeremy as he was laying in his crib, playing with a stuffed animal.
"Donna," Richie asked, "how come you didn't tell me?"
"I was confused," Donna answered, "and afraid."
"Of Joey?" Richie asked.
"Of you," Donna glanced at him, "I was afraid you wouldn't want us. Maybe you wouldn't believe me."
"Donna," Richie assured her, "we're gonna work something out. It'll be okay, for all of us."
"You mean that?" Donna asked.
"I promise," Richie answered. They shared a kiss. He had never been so happy in his life. This could possibly be the most happiest he had ever been since he'd become Immortal.
While hanging out with his family, Richie sensed the Buzz. Duncan and Tori entered the apartment.
"Expecting someone?" Duncan asked.
"Not you," Richie answered as he closed the door, "have a seat you two."
"We never finished the talk," Duncan told him, "I thought now would be a good time."
"Sure," Richie replied, "Mac, Tori, there's somebody I want you guys to meet. Come here."
The group walked over the crib as Richie introduced his son to the pair, "Meet Jeremy. He's a good looking kid, huh?"
"I'll give you this," Tori replied, "Jeremy is an adorable little kid."
She took a deep breath before suggesting, "Look, you should suggest to Donna to get a paternity test."
"Why would you suggest that?" Richie asked.
"Give me a break," Tori scoffed before saying, "Immortals can't have children as MacLeod has pointed out, and might I add, it's something you should heavily consider."
"Well," Richie nodded, "I'll consider asking her."
He knew that Donna had a history of overreacting over certain things, and if he asked for a paternity test, she would probably accuse him of not trusting her.
Duncan was reflecting on a Native American tribe he was in in 1872 at Lakota Sioux Camp. Kahani was like a son to him, and he looked after the child as well as his mother, Little Deer after his friend Makina was killed. He felt at peace for the first time since he could remember.
"What do you think?" Donna asked, pulling the Highlander from his thoughts.
"I think he's a beautiful boy," Duncan answered, "You should be proud."
"I know, and he looks just like Richie," Donna replied as she placed a stuffed animal in the crib with Jeremy, "Here you go. There."
Tori grimaced, overhearing the conversation. She had a feeling Donna was baby trapping her, being delusional. A lot of thoughts were running through her head, but she decided to bite her tongue for the time being.
The three walked down the streets to have a conversation.
"He's really a great kid," Richie spoke up, "I'm just trying to do the right thing here."
"MacLeod, Tori, Richie," Father Matthew arrived at the area, greeting them.
"Why, hello there," Tori replied.
"Where have you been?" Father Matthew asked.
"Uh, we were in Paris for awhile," Duncan answered.
"I see. Oh, Paris!" Father Matthew replied, "The city of my youth. I was there in '92. Oh, what a summer! All those women, all that wine..."
He started to walk away, and then he turned back, "Of course, that was before I entered the priesthood."
"Of course," Duncan, Richie and Tori all replied in unison.
"Show time," Father Matthew stated before preparing to leave, "I'll see you guys in church, yes?"
"Yes, Father," Duncan replied.
"I gotta go too," Richie spoke up, "I promised Jeremy I'd take him to the park."
"I keep telling you," Tori insisted, "ask her to get a paternity test."
"I am telling you," Richie chimed in, "I will look into it."
"Uh, Richie," Duncan stepped in between the bickering friends, "I know this is your life, but being a father isn't a part time job. It's a lifetime commitment."
"I know, Mac," Richie replied, "but Mac, every man's got to face that."
"You are not every man," Tori chimed in.
"She's right, Richie," Duncan added, "You're an Immortal. What happens when she gets old and you don't, or when the kid's as old as you are? What are you going to tell them?"
"I don't know," Richie replied, "What I do know is they need me."
"It ain't over till the fat lady sings," Tori muttered.
"I heard that," Richie replied.
"Is this about their needs or yours?" Duncan asked.
Suddenly, the trio sensed the Buzz, and they looked to see a scruffy looking man on a motorcycle down the street. Tori quickly got her camera and took a picture of the guy.
"It's Kern," Duncan recognized the man immediately.
"What's going on?" Richie asked as he moved forward, with Tori following suit.
Duncan flinged out an arm and blocked them, "My fight!"
"Who is Kern?" Tori asked.
"A dead man," Duncan answered before he hurried after Kern, leaving Richie and Tori to glare at each other.
"I gotta go myself," Tori told Richie, "business as usual. Remember what I told you."
"I said I'd look into it!" Richie called out as she left the area.
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"Sorry to bother you, Joe," Tori spoke up as she talked to him through her laptop. She seemed frustrated with Richie believing Donna's lie that Jeremy was his son. He thought he was going to believe he could live a normal life, and the thing with Kern seemed to be puzzling her. Duncan was determined to kill this guy and she was curious to know why, "but there's just something puzzling me."
"Well," Joe replied, "how on Earth did you get my number?"
"Long story. IUA related."
"So, what do you need?" Joe asked.
"Two questions," Tori proceeded with her actions, "Richie believes that he has a son with an old friend of his. It's true that Immortals can't have children, correct?"
"As far as I know," Joe answered, "that's correct."
"That's what I figured," Tori nodded before asking, "and then there's Kern. Duncan wants to kill him. Is there a reason for that? As Duncan's watcher, I figured you might know that answer."
Joe sighed before speaking up, "It's kinda a tough story but I'll tell you. Kern is an Immortal who kills for fun, and Kern and MacLeod both crossed paths in 1872 at the American Wilderness, and it ended up with his tribe he was residing with killed by US Soldiers led by Kern."
Lakota Sioux Camp, 1872
Duncan reached the ruins of his village and dismounted. He looked around, hoping for any sign of life. He crossed the shallow river and knelt beside the body of one of the braves.
He found the amulet he had given Kahani laying on the ground and picked it up.
Duncan's heart sank upon finding Little Deer, and rolled her body onto his lap, cradling her. He had no idea how long he'd been crying when he sensed the Buzz and looked to see Connor behind him.
"She knew the names of all the grasses," Duncan told him, "the wildflowers, the songs where her people came from, how they lived, what they believed in!"
"I'm sorry," Connor comforted his cousin, "I'm so sorry."
As they prepared Little Deer's funeral pyre, Connor proceeded to ask, "Do you think we ever lived like this? Like a tribe? Together with a common language, a reason and a name for each living thing? Did we once belong somewhere...a time and a place, however briefly?"
Duncan thought about this as he stood by Connor's side as they watched the funeral pyre burn.
Before he knew it, Duncan was alone as he walked to his pinto. He looked at the amulet in his hand, and spoke in Indian language.
Present Day
Tori walked over to Duncan, "Mac?"
He faced her, "I know you're jealous of that woman, and Richie is acting irrational."
"I'm not talking about that," Tori replied, "I found out about what Kern did. I'm very sorry for what happened."
Duncan paced around the room for a moment as Tori noticed the Highlander wearing what looks like some sort of amulet, or something, probably from his tribe that was killed by Kern. He sighed before looking back at her, "How did the IUA find out about Kern?"
"I didn't get this information from the IUA this time," Tori stated, "I got it from somewhere else."
She didn't want to tell Duncan that it was Joe who told her the details, but had a hunch he knew that was the case as Duncan was preparing to leave the dojo.
"Where are you going?" Tori asked.
"Looking for Kern," Duncan answered as he left the dojo.
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Richie looked at Jeremy in awe as held him before gently placing him to the floor, "Donna, I'm telling you, this kid is gonna need a track coach!"
"I was thinking that it might be a good idea if we had a bigger apartment," Donna suggested, "Maybe we could rent a small house or something."
"Oh, the way this guy's going," Richie stated, "we're going to be able to live off his Nike endorsements!"
"While you wait for the checks to roll in," Donna walked out of the room, "I'm going to try to straighten up this mess...if it's humanly possible."
Richie looked at Jeremy as Donna called, "Richie?"
Richie replied, "Yeah, what's up?"
Donna arrived, holding the sword, "You tell me."
He turned around seeing that he had sort of been found out, "Oh, that. Uh, Donna, that's just something I have."
He took the sword from her.
"Richie," Donna replied, "people don't "just have" swords like this. What's it for?"
"Uh, it's a rapier actually," Richie explained, "made in Toledo, Spain about four hundred years ago."
Donna reached to touch the blade and Richie pulled it away, "And it is also very sharp."
He put the sword back in the bedroom.
"I don't like having it around," Donna stated, "It's not safe, Richie."
"It stays," Richie said firmly.
"Why?"
"Look, Donna," Richie walked with Donna, "can we just forget about this?"
"No, no we can't," Donna replied, annoyed, "What's it doing here?"
"I can't tell you," Richie insisted as he sat down on the sofa.
"Richie, families tell each other everything," Donna joined in as she sat down next to him, "Is it stolen?"
"No," Richie answered.
"Then what are you hiding?" Donna asked. He couldn't answer her, causing her to say, "If you can't trust me to tell me about some knife in your closet, how can I trust you to be his father?!"
"How do you know I am his father?" Richie insisted, "Maybe you should take a paternity test to determine whether or not that I am Jeremy's father."
"You're so pathetic," Donna scoffed, "you don't trust me! You want me out of here."
"Look, Donna," Richie replied, "I didn't say that."
"You know why it took me two years to tell you?" Donna stressed, "Because I didn't think you could handle it. You were a pathetic kid then and you still are, especially listening to that Plain Jane girl!"
"Come on, Donna," Richie replied, starting to get mad, "Leave Tori out of this! Besides, I'm trying!"
"Well, try harder," Donna replied before leaving the room.
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Richie walked over to the bar where Joe was working on some stuff.
"Richie," Joe asked, "You think we ought to bulb light the band or use the spots."
"Whatever," Richie answered.
"Whatever?" Joe replied, "I get all these changes in my life, a new place, and does anybody care?"
"Sorry."
"It's all right. Don't worry about it. What do you need?"
"Advice."
"Advice? So you come to Joe's. Everybody comes to Joe's. Talk to me."
"Well," Richie cut to the chase, "you study Immortals. I figure you know more about us than anybody."
"Except an Immortal," Joe stated, "I mean, you see MacLeod every day. You got a question, ask him."
Richie sighed before saying, "In some ways, it's easier to talk to you. I mean, he's been around for so long, sometimes I think he forgets what it was like the first time though."
"Okay," Joe replied, "What I know, you know."
"Well, Immortals can't have children, right?" Richie asked.
"Yeah, that's the way it works," Joe answered.
"But what if, you know," Richie asked, "what if it happened before you became Immortal? You know what I mean?"
"It's never happened," Joe confirmed everything, "I don't think it could."
"You're absolutely sure?"
"Relax, Richie," Joe told him, confirming things even more, "We've been keeping records for centuries and it's never happened. The kid isn't yours."
Richie looked down, disappointed, "Right. Great. Thanks for your help."
"Sure."
"I'll see you later, Dawson," Richie replied before he walked away.
"Okay," Joe replied before calling out, "Richie."
Richie turned back, facing him, "Yeah?"
"I'm sorry."
"Yeah, me too."
With that, Joe and Richie waved at each other, and Richie headed for the door.
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Richie looked around. Joe had confirmed that Immortals can't have children. After some clarification with both Duncan and Tori too, the latter seemed to be mature about everything that had happened. He took a deep breath, preparing for his new life with Donna and Jeremy.
He walked into the apartment and saw Donna as she greeted him, "Hey."
"I'm sorry, Richie," Donna apologized, "I don't know why I flipped out like that."
"It's okay," Richie replied, "and I think it's time we were honest about everything."
"Like what?" Donna asked.
"Like, uh," Richie answered, "I know Jeremy's not mine."
"How can you say that, Richie?" Donna replied in disbelief, "The timing...the way he looks..."
"Donna, I can't have kids," Richie stated, "I never could, and I never will."
"I really wanted him to be yours, Richie," Donna replied, disappointed, "You weren't like the other guys we hung with. I always thought you had something special."
"But listen, Donna," Richie assured her, "it doesn't matter to me though. I love Jeremy, and I...want to be there for you, if you'll let me."
"Let you? Are you kidding?" Donna replied happily, "What do you think I've been praying for?"
She happily hugged him. Richie pulled away from her, "Listen, Donna. There's more."
"If you don't want to say it," Donna told him, "I don't have to hear it."
"Yes, you do."
Before he can go further, Richie sensed the Buzz. An Immortal was nearby. He looked out the window to see Kern leaning against his motorcycle below the apartment.
"Richie, what is it?" Donna asked, "what's going on?"
"Donna listen," Richie instructed as calmly as he could, "You've got to get out of here. Grab Jeremy. You got to go to the dojo. Go out the back door right now."
Donna looked at him, confused, "Richie, what the hell is happening?!"
"Donna, please go!" Richie exclaimed, "Tell MacLeod right now. Please."
Donna ran to the bedroom to get Jeremy and they left the apartment. Richie sighed with relief. How long could he keep this up? He couldn't afford to keep putting Donna and Jeremy in danger, as much as he wanted to life his life with them.
Richie looked up as Kern kicked in the front door.
"Oooh, that looks sharp," Kern glanced at him mockingly, holding Richie's sword, "You wouldn't cut me, would you?"
"That's the idea," Richie answered.
"I really wanted the Sqaw man, but uh, he's not here," Kern replied, "I expect you'll do."
He attacked Richie, who quickly lost his sword. Richie quickly broke a window, and climbed onto a fire escape.
"Run to MacLeod!" Kern yelled from inside the apartment, "Tell the Sqaw Man I'll be here waiting!"
Richie then proceeded to jump into the back of a passing truck, landing face first in a truck full of tomatoes.
Within a few minutes, Richie managed to make his way to the dojo and approached Tori and Duncan, who were looking at him.
"Mac, Tori," Richie called to his friends.
"I think you need some oil and vinegar," Duncan stated.
"Walking salad today?" Tori added.
"I'm lucky I didn't need a funeral," Richie stated.
"Where's Kern?" Duncan asked, holding the Indian Spear.
"He's back at my place," Richie answered, "and he's waiting for you."
"Donna and Jeremy are upstairs," Tori said.
"He would have killed them," Richie said with worry on his tone, "and I couldn't have stopped him."
"He's done it before." Duncan replied.
"Mac, what did he do to you?" Richie asked.
"I'll explain on our way to the loft," Tori whispered as she gently grasped his arm.
"Stay with Donna and Jeremy," Duncan replied before he left the dojo. Tori and Richie glared at each other.
"Are you going to be okay?" Tori asked.
"I think so," Richie answered, "Tor, I think...I know what I have to do."
Tori nodded, "Let's wait until Kern is taken care of before we do anything."
Richie nodded, "Good idea."
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Duncan walked up the rooftop of Richie's apartment building, preparing to face Kern, spear in hand. He continued looking as he sensed the Buzz.
"Over here, Sqaw Man," Kern called out as Duncan turned and faced him, "time to die."
"You're so right," Duncan replied before he began his duel with Kern. Kern managed to kick Duncan to a nearby fenced area. Duncan leaped back up and got his spear back. Kern then managed to cut Duncan with his Bowie knife.
"Like that?" Kern taunted, "Hey, MacLeod, maybe I should take your scalp for old time's sake, and your little friend's, both of them."
Duncan spoke in Indian Language before touching the cut on his chest, smearing the blood in double lines along each cheek like war paint. He then let out a war cry. Kern responded with his own beserker howl and their duel resumed. They exchanged blows and Duncan shoved the point of his spear through Kern. With another ululating cry, Duncan beheaded Kern. He dropped the spear, preparing to take Kern's Quickening.
Duncan was on his knees as he felt the wind, taking the full power of the Quickening as lighting surrounded him as well. He looked to see Little Deer and Kahani's spirits reaching out for him as he was levitating mid air.
"Kahani," Duncan called out as he pulled the amulet from around his neck and held it out, "See? Little Deer."
He looked on as Kahani and Little Deer vanished and the Quickening ended. He knew they were finally at peace now that Kern was no more.
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Tori sighed as she glanced at Duncan, "Are you okay?"
"I believe I will be," Duncan answered, "especially knowing that Kahani and Little Deer can finally rest in peace, knowing Kern is gone."
"I'm glad you took care of that creep," Tori replied, "I'm going to talk with Richie."
"Okay," Duncan nodded, knowing what she was going to talk to him about, "good luck, and tell Richie I will be waiting for you guys and I will buy him a drink. The both of you."
"I will tell him that," Tori nodded before she left the dojo.
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Richie looked on as Donna arrived with Jeremy on the stroller. He knew that with his life as an Immortal, he couldn't live the life he wanted with Donna and her son Jeremy. If Kern had gone after them, there was no telling who else would have gone after them if he still remained with them.
He knew Donna would be disappointed, but this was something he had to do. She would never know what he was or why he was going to do what he had to do.
"Richie," Donna called to him as she pushed Jeremy's stroller and walked over to him.
"Hey," Richie replied as he stood up next to her.
"Hi," Donna kissed him before telling him, "I've got great news. My cousin Ralph's got a house on Fourth Street. He said if we painted and did a little work around the place, he wouldn't charge us rent."
"Donna," Richie went straight to the point, "it's not gonna work."
"Sure it is," Donna objected, "I've seen it. It's got two bedrooms, a big kitchen, a huge yard..."
"No, no, no, no, no," Richie cut her off, "I mean us. We're not gonna work."
"What?" Donna looked confused and surprised, "I don't get it, Richie. A couple of days ago, we were one big happy family."
"I know," Richie apologized, "I'm sorry."
"You're sorry," Donna scoffed in disbelief, "Just like that. You say a couple of words and it's over? If you didn't want us, why didn't you just tell me? Why did you lie to me, to him?"
"Donna, I didn't lie," Richie insisted, "Everything I said was true."
"Then why is this happening?" Donna asked.
"I can't tell you," Richie answered.
"Is it because of that genius girl?"
Richie didn't answer, but Donna assumed that was the reason, "Fine. We have to go."
"Donna," Richie tried to comfort her, "You can stay at my place until you get settled, and if you ever need anything: money, help..."
Donna cut him off this time, "We need you, Richie."
She slapped him before muttering, "Go to hell."
With that, Donna turned around and pushed the stroller quickly down the street.
"Are you okay?" Richie heard Tori ask as he turned around and faced her.
"I'll be fine," Richie answered, "but they won't be back."
"It's probably for the best," Tori assured him.
"She hates me," Richie stated before asking, "Do you think I did the right thing?"
"Honestly," Tori replied, "it is for the best. The important thing is they are still alive."
"How long have you been standing here?" Richie asked.
"Just a minute," Tori crossed her arms.
"Oh," Richie groaned.
"Look Richie," Tori glanced at him, "I followed you around because I didn't want you to make another mistake."
"Another mistake?" Richie scoffed, annoyed. He didn't really need a lecture after Donna had slapped him.
"You know your history," Tori replied, "I'm not going to bring it up though."
She took a deep breath before saying, "Donna is not right for you. She tried to baby trap you when we both know Immortals can't have children."
"I figured that out over the past 24 hours," Richie replied, "especially with the part that she slapped me."
He took a deep breath before stating, "You're the one who said it's not over till the fat lady sings!"
"True," Tori crossed her arms, "but I didn't really mean it."
"Come on, Tor," Richie glanced at her, "stay on the subject!"
"I will," Tori replied, "I'm just trying to keep you from ending up with Donna because I know without a doubt it would not work out between you two!"
"Give me a break," Richie replied, "You're mixed up trying to peg me for someone I'm not. I am not a Hansel from Hansel and Gretel, I'm not a little kid, hell, I'm far from a kid, and I don't need protection from the wicked witch, and if I want to go to that gingerbread house, that will be up to me to decide!"
"What are you saying?!" Tori demanded.
"You don't trust me," Richie replied, frustrated, "You don't trust my instincts, let alone my judgment!"
"Well," Tori replied, "your judgment hasn't had the best track record for being good judgment."
"So what else is new?" Richie retorted.
"Well, pardon me for trying to keep my best friend from getting hurt," Tori replied, "or doing something irrational!"
"Some friend!" Richie exclaimed, "I don't have room for friends like you, Tori!"
"So, you're saying you don't wanna be friends?" Tori asked.
"No, I don't!" Richie answered.
"Well, good!" Tori replied, "Neither do I!"
Seconds later, she pulled Richie into a loving embrace and she kissed him. Reluctantly, Richie accepted the kiss.
Moments later, Tori and Richie broke apart and look at each other in delight.
"Um..." Tori started to say.
""Um, Tori," Richie stammered before he asked, "why didn't you just tell me you have feelings for me?"
Tori looked around for a bit before answering, "I didn't think you shared the same feelings. Do you?"
"Well, um," Richie looked around for a moment before looking back at Tori, "yeah. Oh, what the hell, let's make it official."
With that, Tori and Richie held each other in a loving embrace and shared a passionate kiss.
"Mac said he'll buy us a drink at Joe's," Tori said during the kiss.
"You think we'd warrant a drink?" Richie asked.
"After all we've been through," Tori answered, "I wouldn't mind a drink myself."
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Charlie sighed as he finished his workout. Then, he eyed Duncan.
"How are things going with Richie?" he proceeded to ask.
"It didn't work out with him and Donna," Duncan answered.
"What?" Charlie glanced at him, "What happened?"
"Richie can't have children," Duncan explained, "and needless to say, Richie is not the father of her baby."
"So, she was essentially baby trapping him?" Charlie asked.
"Essentially."
"That explains why Tori went She Hulk on her," Charlie quipped.
"She never laid hands on her," Duncan insisted.
"I know," Charlie chuckled, "but it is just an expression. Tori didn't really like Donna that much."
"Can you blame her?"
"Not really," Charlie shook his head, "I swear, it's not often you see someone trying to baby trap their spouse or partner, and when it happens, it can keep someone off guard."
"Tori was jealous of Donna though," Duncan noted.
"That's true too. How are you doing?"
"Fine. I'm doing fine, all things considered." Duncan took a deep breath before saying, "I know some loved ones of mine are finally at peace."
"How do you know that?" Charlie asked.
"Just a hunch."
Charlie nodded, deciding not to press the issue further. He wondered what exactly Duncan was hiding. He seemed to be so secretive. Come to think of it, Richie and Tori were also being secretive. He had no idea what was going on with them, but he'd hope to one day find out.
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Felicia stepped out of the plane and walked into the airport. She smirked as she got her luggage and made her way out of the airport.
Felicia was back in Seacouver. Back to where it all began. Now that she was back and had found Duncan MacLeod and Richie Ryan, it was time for revenge.
"Prepare yourselves, Highlander," Felicia declared, "Felicia Martins is back in town!"
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Author's Commentary:
Lakota Sioux Camp, 1872
Duncan reached the ruins of his village and dismounted. He looked around, hoping for any sign of life. He crossed the shallow river and knelt beside the body of one of the braves.
He found the amulet he had given Kahani laying on the ground and picked it up.
Duncan's heart sank upon finding Little Deer, and rolled her body onto his lap, cradling her. He had no idea how long he'd been crying when he sensed the Buzz and looked to see Connor behind him.
"She knew the names of all the grasses," Duncan told him, "the wildflowers, the songs where her people came from, how they lived, what they believed in!"
"I'm sorry," Connor comforted his cousin, "I'm so sorry."
As they prepared Little Deer's funeral pyre, Connor proceeded to ask, "Do you think we ever lived like this? Like a tribe? Together with a common language, a reason and a name for each living thing? Did we once belong somewhere...a time and a place, however briefly?"
Duncan thought about this as he stood by Connor's side as they watched the funeral pyre burn.
Before he knew it, Duncan was alone as he walked to his pinto. He looked at the amulet in his hand, and spoke in Indian language.
This is a combination of the flashback scene from both the first episode "The Gathering" as well as the episode that's being covered in this chapter.
"Look Richie," Tori glanced at him, "I followed you around because I didn't want you to make another mistake."
"Another mistake?" Richie scoffed, annoyed. He didn't really need a lecture after Donna had slapped him.
"You know your history," Tori replied, "I'm not going to bring it up though."
She took a deep breath before saying, "Donna is not right for you. She tried to baby trap you when we both know Immortals can't have children."
"I figured that out over the past 24 hours," Richie replied, "especially with the part that she slapped me."
He took a deep breath before stating, "You're the one who said it's not over till the fat lady sings!"
"True," Tori crossed her arms, "but I didn't really mean it."
"Come on, Tor," Richie glanced at her, "stay on the subject!"
"I will," Tori replied, "I'm just trying to keep you from ending up with Donna because I know without a doubt it would not work out between you two!"
"Give me a break," Richie replied, "You're mixed up trying to peg me for someone I'm not. I am not a Hansel from Hansel and Gretel, I'm not a little kid, hell, I'm far from a kid, and I don't need protection from the wicked witch, and if I want to go to that gingerbread house, that will be up to me to decide!"
"What are you saying?!" Tori demanded.
"You don't trust me," Richie replied, frustrated, "You don't trust my instincts, let alone my judgment!"
"Well," Tori replied, "your judgment hasn't had the best track record for being good judgment."
"So what else is new?" Richie retorted.
"Well, pardon me for trying to keep my best friend from getting hurt," Tori replied, "or doing something irrational!"
"Some friend!" Richie exclaimed, "I don't have room for friends like you, Tori!"
"So, you're saying you don't wanna be friends?" Tori asked.
"No, I don't!" Richie answered.
"Well, good!" Tori replied, "Neither do I!"
Seconds later, she pulled Richie into a loving embrace and she kissed him. Reluctantly, Richie accepted the kiss.
Moments later, Tori and Richie broke apart and look at each other in delight.
"Um..." Tori started to say.
""Um, Tori," Richie stammered before he asked, "why didn't you just tell me you have feelings for me?"
Tori looked around for a bit before answering, "I didn't think you shared the same feelings. Do you?"
"Well, um," Richie looked around for a moment before looking back at Tori, "yeah. Oh, what the hell, let's make it official."
With that, Tori and Richie held each other in a loving embrace and shared a passionate kiss.
I created a parallel with this scene from another show, albeit a sitcom Night Court. The parallel is where Harry and Christine finally confessed their feelings for one another after some momentum with Christine's ex Tony, at what should have been the series finale, but I digress, followed by a random scene between Roz, Mac, and Bull talking. That's where Richie and Tori finally confessed their feelings for one another after this little momentum with Donna, followed by the scene between Duncan and Charlie.
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Chapters
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.
While reflecting on personal matters, Tori witnesses a stunning occurrence.
Richie introduces Tori to his friends, Duncan and Tessa, who detail the secret affairs of immortals.
As Tori begins learning more about her true nature, a teacher offers assistance.
Tori informs the Defenders that she plans to help Duncan and his companions.
Tori and Richie continue bonding as the IUA works with Duncan.
Tori is given a new task by her mother Janet.
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.
Tori tends to an ailing Richie.
The group gains allies while investigating a new matter.
The search for Horton begins.
An old friend of Tori's reveals a darker side. Janet becomes involved in the current operation.
Duncan is told to be wary of a dark prophesy.
The team is menaced by Annie Devlin, an old associate of Duncan's.
Duncan begins refining Tori's skills.
Richie and Tori continue bonding.
A new woman comes into Richie's life.
Janet takes steps to make Richie an IUA operative.
Tori and her allies confront a number of enemies in the city.
The teams head out for a day of fun.
Rick's capture leads to a compromising situation as LJ and the others attempt a rescue.
Lucy, a dangerous immortal, targets Richie. Tori intervenes.
The IUA investigates when one of the Phantom's acquaintances is victimized by an immortal.
Richie and Tori return to Paris to assist with the mission, which is complicated by police involvement.
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.
Duncan attempts to work with the unstable David Keogh.
Charlie prepares to depart.
The group meet a girl named Michelle, who has just discovered her immortal nature.
Tori and Richie attempt to care for a younger boy named Kenny.
Everyone prepares for a holiday.
A mysterious statue creates chaos.
Joe and the team find others in need of their help.
Jedda and Tori have an intimate conversation.
Kalas haunts Richie and the others.
Duncan prepares for battle with Kalas and finds a surprise.
Kalas searches for Methos.
Tori worries as Richie begins taking chances.
Anne arrives.
41: The Exorcism of Richie Ryan
Richie requires assistance in getting back to normal.
The Defenders step in to assist with Kalas, and to help prevent the truth about Duncan's kind from leaking.
Duncan prepares to confront Kalas.
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.
The current situation reminds Tori of a well-known scenario.
Amanda and Richie follow Duncan on a journey in secret, and end up defending themselves from a horde of ice robots.
The friends see Kenny again. Duncan suspects that a certain immortal is pursuing the child.
Seacouver is targeted by an ambitious supernatural woman named Sierra.
Duncan, Tori, and Richie investigate a matter from Duncan's past alongside the police.
The group is challenged by a charismatic new antagonist, Kamir.
The spellcaster Kristin Gilles arrives and pursues Richie. Mandrake offers assistance in thwarting her.
Duncan and his friends attempt to aid a pianist.
Anne and Jack participate in the latest endeavor.
Duncan falls under a dark influence temporarily.
Methos and the others reflect.
The exploits of Flash and his famed allies from Mongo are chronicled. Meanwhile, Zorelda reemerges.
The team members engage in sparring and storytelling during downtime.
The groups attempt to rescue Joe, who has been lured into a trap.
As tensions rise and truths are revealed, the team bands together in their effort to help Joe.
Richie makes a monumental decision.
As Tori and Richie prepare for the big day, opposing forces on Mongo makes plans of their own.
Katarina and Castra attempt to unite with the Defenders before Zorelda makes her move.
Zorelda arrives on Earth.
65: Setting Up The Rescue Mission
The groups outline their rescue effort.
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.
The group deals with the repercussions of their adventure and return to Earth.
Duncan's ally, Cassandra, relays a vision.
Tori and Richie encounter a cult. Duncan pursues Clay.
The Ryans foster a mysterious child who bears a resemblance to Tori.
Amanda and Maurice return as a new enigma arises.
Amanda engages in more questionable activity.
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.
The Ryans encounter an apparent impostor, who also approaches Hadea.
An adversary known as Kronos targets Tori, seeking to exploit her intellect.
Richie and Duncan move to counter Kronos.
80: The Ransom of Richard Redstone
The Ryans depart for an undercover mission overseas.
The group make new acquaintances while pursuing a lead tied to a mysterious dancing event.
The enigmatic Keane arrives, wreaking havoc on several people's lives.
Duncan deals with a mischievous adversary named Byron. Jedda and Rick prepare for parenthood. Both Katarina and Jedda sense danger ahead.
Ming and Octon turn to a new ally.
Duncan is haunted.
The shape-shifter initiates a confrontation.
Ming shifts his focus to an isolated girl.
The Defenders unite with Tori's friends in an effort to stop Ahriman.
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.
Richie copes. Duncan travels overseas.
Joe, Amanda, and Duncan continue to hunt the enemy.
April locates Richie and provides an update on the current situation.
Richie is confronted by the opponent again.
Joe leads the investigation as everyone bands together.
The final clash begins.
Duncan makes a crucial discovery.
The key element to the plan is obtained.
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.
Series finale.
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