Date: Wed, 12 Jun 1996 03:11:30 -1000 From: Kevin Matsumoto Subject: XOVER: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE PT 1/? A HL/FK CROSSOVER This story follows Companionship, Remembrances and Trinity. Disclaimer: Nicholas Knight, Natalie Lambert and Company belong James Parriot and I guess now The SciFi Channel. Highlander and everything that goes with it belong to Rysher and USA Network. This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 1 Natalie woke up with a feeling that something was wrong. Reaching over she felt the empty spot were Nick usually slept. Getting out of bed, she pulled on the blue silk robe that Nick had bought her for her birthday. Walking down the stairs, she saw Nick looking out the window. Golden sunlight streamed into the loft. Nick stood just off to one side, a sad, thoughtful expression on his face. She thought sarcastically, Sighing she walked over to him. Gently she took the remote control out of his hands and lowered the shutters. "Nick?" Her voice pleaded with him to talk to her. "Nat, Are you truly happy?" "What?" Natalie was surprised at the question. "I mean here, like this, with me?" "What kind of question is that?" Natalie shook her head. "Of course I'm happy, Nick. I have you don't I?" Nick nodded and drew her into his arms. "You know you do, Nat. I love you, it's just that sometimes..." Natalie pressed the fingers of her right hand gently against his mouth, silencing him. Softly her lips replaced her fingers. After several seconds, she drew away. "That's all that matters. Do you know how long I waited to here you say those words again? I love _you_ and I'm happy with you." "It's just there's so much we can't do, no walks along a sunny beach." Nick's voice was melancholy. "So? I always thought moonlight walks were more romantic anyway." "Nat, that's not what I meant." "I know. Are you going to be like this for the next hundred years?" Natalie asked, then she said "I don't believe I just said that." "Nat?" "Nick," Natalie sighed. "I'd rather think of what we _can_ do together than what I could be doing without you." Nick smiled, then he frowned and asked. "What do you mean, Like this?" "This," Natalie placed her hand on his chest. "Always brooding on maybe, and waiting for the happiness to end." "It always has before." Nick replied. "Before it wasn't us." Natalie retorted. "Nat, I'm sorry, I just can't help it." "It's OK, Nick, I'm used to it by now. I just didn't expect it so soon." Nick's smile was brighter now. "Nat, maybe we need a vacation." She looked up at him. "A vacation?" "Someplace away, No work, no interruptions." "No LaCroix?" "No LaCroix." Nick agreed. "Where?" Natalie asked eagerly. "How about France?" "Nick." Natalie sounded exasperated. "There's something there I want you to see." "And what could that be?" Nick looked into Natalie's eyes. "My old home. The only home I had before you." "Nick..." This time her voice was soft and there were tears in her eyes. Kyle and Natalie practically danced around the hall, sparring. Finally Natalie held her hand up. "Enough, Kyle, you win. I can't continue." "You're getting really good Natalie." Aaron said from the sidelines. He was holding a towel over a cut on his right arm. "You're already better than most of the Immortals I've seen." Natalie took several deep breaths to clear her head. "I don't think I could ever take some else's head again." Aaron smiled. "That's your choice Natalie, you could always just run them through then walk away. But sooner or later they'll track you down. I just can't see you letting someone beat you." Natalie shook her head. "I just don't think I can do it." "Sometimes you won't get the choice, Natalie." Kyle said sadly. "Some of them won't leave you alone until either you or they are dead." Natalie shivered slightly. "Just the thought of facing one of them..." "Tell me about it." Aaron agreed. Kyle sat down then snapped his fingers. "Before I forget. I won't be here tomorrow." "Another Auction?" Aaron asked. "Nope, just a vacation, I'm heading to Boston for a few days." "Nick and I are going to France in December." Natalie mentioned. Aaron looked at her. "Really? When? Terry and I are flying out as soon as the winter break starts." "You're going to France?" Natalie asked. "Actually, Ireland first then France. Terry wants visit her old stomping grounds and I have to say goodbye to a friend, a very old friend." "How old is old?" Natalie asked. "I knew him longer than I've known Terry." "I'm sorry I asked." Natalie replied. "So you're going for a couple of weeks?" "More like a couple of months." Aaron sounded depressed. "What about your position at the College?" "It seems," Aaron explained. "my alternative views on history haven't won me any fans at the College. I suppose calling the Head of the Dept. a pompous ass, was a little overboard." "You didn't?" Kyle started to laugh. Natalie took one look at the expression on Aaron's face and joined Kyle. "He did." "He deserved it. The man believes that if it hasn't already been written in a text book it doesn't deserve attention." Sighing he got up and began pacing. "They're reviewing the possibility of granting me tenure right now. But it doesn't look good." "So what will you do if they fire you?" Natalie was concerned. "Maybe I'll go back into the antique business." Aaron smiled. "I just liked teaching. Would you believe it? I actually think I got a few of my students to think for themselves, instead of doing a stenographer impersonation." "Nick always said the time he spent teaching was some of the happiest he had." Natalie said sympathetically. "Oh well." Aaron shrugged. "So how long are you going to be in France?" "About a month." Natalie answered. "Nick wanted to go back to his old home." "If you get the chance join us in Paris." Aaron told her. "Terry and I would love to show you some of the sights." "I'll remember that." As Nick finished packing his luggage, he sighed. "I don't remember packing to be this much trouble." Natalie laughed. "That's because you usually just pack everything and move on." Nick shrugged. He picked up the last of the luggage and put it near the door to the loft. "It is easier that way." "Well this time we're only going for a couple of weeks, so you don't have to pack the kitchen sink." "I think that's all we didn't pack." Natalie started laughing again. Nick went back to the bedroom to see if they had missed anything, when the door buzzer went off. Walking over to the monitor he saw Aaron waiting outside. "Hi, Aaron, Come on up." He pushed the release to allow Aaron into the building. As Aaron entered the loft, Nick noticed he was carrying a long wooden case. "Hi, Aaron." Natalie said brightly. "What brings you here today?" "I just dropped by to give you this." Aaron held up the case and a small piece of paper. "What is that?" Nick asked. "This," Aaron held up the paper. "is a document stating that Natalie is a bonded courier for Freeman Antiques. It also says that she is carrying a valuable antique sword for evaluation by a buyer in France." "Of course the blade can't be let out of the sight of the courier." Nick stated. "Of course." Natalie picked up the case. "I guess my sword goes in here?" "Yeah, you shouldn't have any trouble at customs or with taking the blade onto the plane as a carryon." "Thanks, Aaron." Natalie said. "Don't mention it." Aaron replied as he left the loft. Nick leaned back as the plane leveled off. They had arranged their flight so that they would arriving in the early morning, about an hour before sunrise. Seated next to him, Natalie looked tense. "Something wrong, Nat?" "Nothing, it's just. First Class Nick?" "I can afford it, besides I wanted to pamper you a little." Natalie leaned her head onto Nick's shoulder as the stewardess's voice came over the speaker. "The inflight movie will be Vampire in Brooklyn." Natalie turned her face into Nick's shoulder to muffle her laughter as Nick groaned outloud. End Chapter 1 Auther's notes: I know, I know, I shouldn't have done that to Nick but I just couldn't help myself. :-) Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: In chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 2 The customs official gave a bored look to the pair standing before him. It was too early in the morning to be dealing with foreigners, especially yanks. "Any thing to declare?" "Just this." The man placed a long box on the table. Opening he revealed a polished sword. "And what might that be?" "A Crusader's sword, 10th century. I'm taking to a potential buyer for examination." "So this a business trip then?" The official looked at the red-headed young lady accompanying him. He thought. "A little of both," the young lady stated. "We're also here for our honeymoon." The official looked over the papers that accompanied the sword and gave their luggage a cursory search. "Well, everything checks out. You can go." The man gave a curt nod and gathered their bags. As they left the official muttered a old curse his grandfather had taught him. "Mind your tongue." The woman snarled as she spun about. the official paled. He suddenly remembered what the translation of the curse was in english and paled even further. "I'm terribly sorry miss, I didn't mean..." He began to apologize. "I know what you meant." She almost growled. "You'd best be keeping a civil tongue in your head. Especially if you want to keep your job." With that she stormed off. The official watched with a worried look as the man picked up their bags and continued out the door. The official had no doubt that the man didn't understand. As he left the terminal building, Aaron broke out laughing. "It isn't funny, Aaron!" Theresa fumed. "If you knew what he called you!" "I do know." Aaron put the bags down and grabbed her hand. "Remember? You taught me to speak Gaelic yourself." "Then why laugh?" She asked. "Did you see the look on his face when he realized you speak Gaelic?" Aaron started laughing again. Theresa glared at her husband for awhile then began laughing with him. When they had calmed down, Aaron headed to the rental agency. A few minutes later he came back with a set of keys. "Ready to go?" Theresa picked up her half of the luggage and nodded. Soon they were headed to the inn where Aaron had made reservations. Aaron secured the shutters tightly then pulled the heavy drapes into place. "That should keep out the sun." "What sun?" Theresa growled. "It's snowing outside." "It is December, Terry." Aaron turned gently pulled her into an embrace. "It's just it was spring when we met. I wanted to see the hills green with life." Theresa murmured into his chest. Slowly she began undoing the buttons of his shirt. Aaron placed his fingers under her chin and tilted her face up. Slowly and as thoroughly as possible he kissed her. "We'll come back here again, Terry, I promise you that." "Are you sure this is the right spot?" Theresa asked as they stopped near a small hillock. Aaron pointed to a outcropping of rock. "That hasn't changed in all the times we've come back." "You remember that?" She asked. "Don't you?" "Well, yes, we used a hollow spot between the outcropping and the hill as part of a shelter for the day." "That's why I remember it." Aaron stated. "Oh," Theresa smiled as the two of them stood there arms around each other. Each lost in shared memories." "Well, what have we here then?" A rough voice broke them out of their reverie. "A pair of lovebirds lost in the snow?" Aaron turned to see a group of young toughs approaching them. Sighing he said. "You've got the lousiest timing." "Seems pretty good to me." the leader of the group grinned. "No one else around, real late at night, perfect for what I had in mind." Theresa turned to Aaron "Do you think this counts as needless?" "I don't think the locals would appreciate you littering, Terry." Aaron looked grim. Theresa sighed. She knew that the locals Aaron was referring to was the vampire community and not the mortals. "So can I at least hurt them a little?" "Hurt us?" the leader of the toughs was confused. He pulled a ugly looking knife out of his pocket. "I don't thing you understand the situation here." The other members of his gang followed suit. "No, I don't think you understand. Leave Now and you won't get hurt." Aaron replied calmly. "That's it." the leader sneered as he lunged at Aaron. The popping sound of a dislocated joint was audible as Terry grabbed the thug's arm and wrenched it out of its socket. The man's scream caused the other members of the group to suddenly remember that they had pressing engagements as far away from the pair as possible. Aaron watched the three running as fast as they could, then he turned to the figure groaning on the ground. Reaching out, he grasped the man's arm and with sudden jerk popped it back into the socket. "I did warn you." "Talk about a mood breaker." Theresa growled. "I should have broken it." Aaron grabbed the man by the neck and the three headed back to the town. "Sorry to be leaving again?" Aaron asked as the plane took off. "I always am." Theresa said a little sadly. They'd spent two weeks touring the countryside, remembering old times. Except for the incident with the toughs and one brief run in with the local Enforcers it had been idyllic. Now they were on their way to France. Aaron held her hand. "We did spend some happy times here." "We've spent happy times just about everywhere." Theresa grinned, her humor returned. "True." Aaron returned his wife's smile. "Where are we staying in Paris." Theresa asked. "At the house, of course." Theresa almost smacked herself in the head. She had been the one to insist they buy the house in the first place. "I told the housekeeper to get the place ready and when to expect us." "As I recall, the bedroom has a nice large fireplace doesn't it?" "Uh huh, why?" "Nothing, I was just thinking how nice it is to snuggle in front of a cozy fire. That's the one thing I don't like about the Toronto house." "I did try to find one with a fireplace, but none of them were all that great." "I know, I just miss it, that's all." Aaron smiled as the plane leveled off. It was only a brief flight from Dublin to Paris, so he decided to spend the time holding his wife's hand and looking in her eyes. Which was just fine with Terry. End Chapter 2 Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 3 Natalie stared at sight before her. The De Brabant estate was covered in snow lending an ethereal quality to the scene. Even so there was something wrong. "Nick it's beautiful but it seems empty." "No one lives here anymore." Nick looked melancholy. "The last of Fleur's descendants died during World War II. He left it to what he assumed was an descendant of Nicholas DeBrabant." "You." Natalie turned so that she could look Nick in the eyes. "Yes," Nick nodded. "I hired a lawyer to take care of it. And set up a trust to ensure it wouldn't get rundown. But I haven't been back since. Too many memories." "Good or bad?" Natalie held his gaze. "Both." Nick admitted. "I just couldn't stay." "So why come back now?" "Because I wanted to you to see it. Because I wanted to put it all behind me." Natalie turned back to look at the Castle. "Nick why are there lights on?" "I wired the caretaker that I was arriving. But I think there's a historian there right now." "Why would a historian be here?" "Beats me, the lawyer said something about her requesting to look around the estate." "Well then, shall we go meet her?" Natalie asked as she slid her arm around his. "Let's." The two of them got back into the car and finished the drive to the castle. As they entered the castle, Nick noticed a tall, medium built young woman with long black hair. "I'm Nick Knight, and you are?" "Mr. Knight, I'm pleased to meet you. My name is Andrea Rochelle, Andy to my friends. I'm a historian with the Vatican." "The Vatican?" Nick asked. "Yes, I was going through the old Archives and I found an manuscript supposedly written by Joan of Arc's confessor. In it she mentions being tempted by a fallen one. She gave a very good description of the person, right down to a name. Nicholas De Brabant." "And that led you here?" Nick tried to look calm. "In a way, I did some further digging and found a reference to a Nicholas De Brabant who was a Crusader in 1227. Interestingly enough, the description of that Nicholas matches the description that St. Joan gave." "So you think, what? That they might be the same person, after almost 200 years?" "No, of course not." Andy denied. "I just thought maybe they might be related that's all." The speed of the denial and her body language made Nick wonder exactly what she was up to. "I wish you luck." Nick said. "I'm going to need it." Andy said. "So far I haven't even found a single portrait of Nicholas De Brabant to examine." She shrugged her shoulders. "Which is very odd, considering Nicholas was the oldest son." "Perhaps he did something to disgrace himself." Natalie suggested. "Maybe" Andy replied. "That might account for lack of portraits." She smiled at Natalie, "Thank you...?" "Dr. Natalie Lambert, Natalie if you prefer." "Thank's Natalie, That might be worth checking up on." The young woman headed back to the library." As she left the room, Natalie whispered to Nick "So, what happened to all the portraits?" "I had them removed before I left for the last time." Nick whispered back. "I didn't want anyone to notice the similarities." "Good idea." Natalie agreed. Nick laughed at the expression on her face. Natalie smiled as she walked through the ancient hall. It was a wonderful spot for a vacation. Nick had shown her all of the sights around the castle proper. Including those that only had significance to him. Lately he had seemed nervous, as though he had some he had to do but was unsure of how to do it. As Nick came around the corner, she decided, enough was enough. "Nick is there something wrong?" "No, not exactly." He looked around as though searching for a way out. Then he sighed. "Come with me." Nick led her out onto a walkway. Below she could see the snow covered fields of the estate. "Nick?" Natalie looked scared. Nick slowly took her hands in his. "Nat, You've been my true friend and companion for 6 years. You've helped me to regain my faith in myself. I love you..." Natalie felt her eyes fill with tears. "Nick if you regret what's happened between us, you don't..." "No!," Nick interrupted. "That's not what I wanted to say." "Then what?" "Nat." Nick sighed. "There's no easy way to say this." He went to one knee. "Will you marry me?" Natalie watched as Nick slowly pulled a ring from out of his pocket. "Nick I..." "Nat, say yes, please." As Natalie looked into Nick's eyes, she could see the fear of rejection in them. Smiling through the tears, she simply said "Yes." "When?" Nick asked eagerly as he placed the ring on her finger. Natalie shook her head. "I want to share this with our friends." was what she said outloud. "Aaron and Theresa?" "What?" "They're in Paris, we could join them there." Nick explained. "Nick that's perfect." Then Natalie frowned. "What about Grace and Tracy and..." "I think they'll understand." Nick smiled. "Grace will probably start cheering." A soft chuckle left Natalie's throat. "You might just be right. When do we leave?" "Yesterday?" Nick looked so earnest that Natalie began laughing louder. "As soon as we can get packed I guess." "Then what are we waiting for?" Natalie headed for their bedroom. Andy put down yet another dusty book. Picking up another book, she began reading browsing through it. Deliberately ignoring anything past the 15th century, she still had gone through about a tenth of the library so far and had found only a few references to Nicholas De Brabant. Sighing she picked up yet another book. A slip of parchment fell out of this particular book. Opening up the parchment, Andy's eyes widened as she looked at a very familiar face. "It can't be." She said out loud. Going back to the book, she discovered it was the diary of a Fleur De Brabant. In it, Fleur described watching her brother go off to the Crusades. "My god." She barely whispered the words. Racing out the library she watched as Nick and Natalie finished putting the luggage into their car. Grabbing her camera, she used her most sensitive film and took several shots as Nick crossed in front of the car's headlights. she thought. As the car pulled away, Andy went to the room the caretaker had assigned to her. Once there she began developing the film . Several of the shots were either blurred or too dark to use but one shot was a perfect clear image of Detective Nick Knight's face. "Nicholas De Brabant, I presume." She said outloud. Walking out of the bathroom, she headed for her suitcase. From it she removed a small cellular phone. Dialing a number she waited for someone to pick up on the other end. Finally she heard sound of a male voice. "Stefan?, this is Andy I think I found what I was looking for." Natalie smiled as she and Nick headed for the address that Aaron had given her before they left. As they reached the door, Natalie felt the buzz that told her an Immortal was there. "Aaron home." She announced. "That's good." Nick returned her smile as he knocked on the door. There was a noticeable delay before the door opened. Theresa stood there with a small smile on her face. "Hi Nat, Nick." She let them into the house. Natalie stopped and stared at the 6 people standing around a large table. Aaron stood there along with two people she remembered vaguely from Felice Martin's memories. They all looked haggard and tired and 5 of them had swords out. "Hi Nick, Nat. Boy did you pick the wrong time to come to Paris." Aaron said as he put his sword away. End Chapter 3 Notes: The 4th chapter of this story occurs concurrently with this one. And ends at the same place from a different viewpoint. Also thanks to Linda Pierce who suggested the Historian. I'm using the idea with my own twists. But I don't think I would have thought of it without her original idea. Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 4 Aaron paused before the old church. "Ready?" "Not really," Theresa said shivering slightly. "You know how I feel about churches." "Terry, if you don't want to go with me, you don't have to." Aaron took her hand in his. "I was hoping you'd come but I didn't expect it. I know how much this upset you last time." "No." Theresa shook her head. "We both owe him a great deal, he deserves a proper goodbye." Aaron smiled softly, wrapped his arm around her waist and together the two of them entered the ancient edifice. "May I help you?" The priest said. Aaron looked at the young priest. "No, we're just here to say goodbye to an old friend." The priest was obviously confused. "There are no memorial services arranged for today." "No, Father, you don't understand." Theresa explained. "The person we're talking about passed away about two years ago." "And you've only come now to pay your respects?" The priest's tone was censorious. "We just learned about it last year." Aaron explained. "My new job precluded me from traveling till this year." "And the person's name." The priest asked. Aaron stared at the priest for several seconds, weighing his answer. "Darius." "Ah, you are one of his friends." The priest smiled, "You would not believe the people who have come to pay their respects." Aaron chuckled softly, "Father, you'd be surprised." The priest nodded. "Perhaps I would at that, Father Darius's grave is out back." "Thank you." Aaron nodded his thanks and headed for the rear exit. As they headed for the exit, Aaron paused and looked around. "Aaron?" Theresa was worried. The last thing they needed tonight was for Aaron to get into a fight with another Immortal. "Maybe we should leave." Aaron held his hand up and indicated she should wait. "No, this is holy ground, whoever it is won't pick a fight here." Theresa accepted his statement but released his arm in case he did have to fight. Theresa saw the 3 figures standing before Darius's grave. "Aaron, are they all?" "Yeah." Aaron nodded. The three figures stood there as Aaron and Theresa approached. Slowly the middle figure, a tall male with his hair pulled back in a single ponytail stepped forward. "I am Duncan Macleod of the Clan Macleod." Aaron stopped at that announcement. "Aaron Grey, Macleod, huh? Any relation to Connor Macleod?" Duncan gaped at the casual way Aaron had asked the question. Methos broke out in laughter. "Hello Aaron, it's been a long time." "Too long,..." Aaron left it hanging, he didn't know what name his friend was currently using. "It's Adam, Adam Pierson." "Of course," Aaron walked over and to shake Methos's hand. "It's really has been too long, Adam." He looked Methos over as they clasped hands and he noticed an odd mark on Methos's forearm. Looking closely he realized what it was. "You're a watcher?" Aaron began to laugh. "It seemed like a good idea at the time." Methos replied. "What brings you here?" "We came to pay our respects to Darius." Aaron answered. "And you?" "The same." The young woman who was the third part of the group answered. "Amanda." She held out her hand. Aaron took the hand and debated kissing it. Then he decided discretion was the better part of valor and instead shook it. "No last name?" "It changes." She grinned at him. Aaron heard the sound of suppressed laughter from Duncan at that remark. "Nice to meet you, Amanda. But if you'll excuse me?" "Of course." Aaron walked over to the grave. As he knelt down he felt Theresa's hand on his shoulder as she stood next to him. "I never thought you'd outlive me, old friend. If anyone deserved to win the prize it was you. I have so many things to thank you for, not the least of which was convincing me to marry my wife. But I can't find the words. Thank you, Farewell." Slowly he stood up, tears running down his face. Theresa pressed her fingers to her lips then to the cold marble gravestone. Speaking in Gaelic she said. "Farewell, Darius, May you find peace with your god." Duncan started at Theresa's words. He puzzled over her words, then decided it was probably a slip of the tongue. Aaron stood there staring at the grave, trying to compose himself. "I guess I didn't really believe till now, I never thought Darius would die." Duncan nodded sympathetically. "Neither did I." Aaron turned from the grave and started walking. As he passed Methos, he said. "You and I have got a lot of catching up to do." "About 300 years worth." Methos agreed. He handed Aaron a piece of paper. "This is my address, stop by and we'll have a long talk." Methos emphasized the word long. As the three drove away, Aaron turned back to the church and sighed. "I still can't believe he's gone." "You never told me, how long did you know him?" "Since the 3rd century." "That's a long time." She acknowledged. Then she looked at the church's entrance and smiled. "Remember the first time we came here together?" "How could I forget?" ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1323 AD Theresa gazed in shock at the building that Aaron was leading them to. "No, absolutely not, I will not go in there!" "I'm sorry, love, but this damned storm has everyone shut tight, this is the only shelter that I know is available and I'm freezing." She turned to look at her companion. Aaron's lips were turning blue from the cold and he was shivering, despite the heavy coats and furs they were wearing. "All right," She sighed. "But, a church? Why couldn't you have found us an inn?" "The last two inns were already packed with people and there isn't another one nearby. We'd both survive freezing solid but I'd hate to try to explain it come the spring thaw." "How do even know they'll let us in?" "The head priest is a friend, that's how." Aaron replied as he knocked on the door. "One of you kind?" "Yes." The door opened slightly and a cowled figure peered. "Antonius?" Aaron smiled, softly he asked in French. "Darius, do you think you could shelter two travelers until the storm passes?" "Of course!, come in, you must be freezing." Darius opened the door wider and allowed them inside. "My god," Darius exclaimed as he helped Theresa inside. "Her hand is like ice. Come, We'll get you in front of a warm fire, that should help." Darius ushered them into a small room where a fire was burning. "I will be back with something to eat." Aaron stopped him. "Darius, that's all right we have our own supplies. We just needed shelter until the storm passes." "Very well, I will be back shortly." With that Darius left the room. Aaron removed his cloak and furs, relaxing in the warming heat of the fire. Turning he saw the look of hunger that passed over Theresa's face. "Theresa?" "I'm all right." She replied. Aaron knew better. "When was the last time you fed?" "The night before last." She admitted. Aaron walked over to her. Slowly he rolled back his sleeve. "NO!" She knocked his arm away. "You don't have to do that. I can make it another night without feeding." "No, not after you used up your reserves moving through this cold." Aaron raised his arm again. "You need this." Slowly, against her will, Theresa felt her fangs descend. She lowered her mouth to his wrist and bit down. Aaron released a short hiss of pain as the fangs pierced his skin. Then the sensation changed to something almost sensual as she drank what she needed. "My friend, I have a room prepared..." Darius's voice startled both of them. Darius stood in shock at the sight before him. Aaron's arm was bloody where Theresa had bitten him and his blood was trickling down from the corners of her mouth. "My god." He whispered. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Theresa's giggle startled Aaron out of his walk through his memories. "What?" he asked her. "I was just remembering the look on Darius's face when he caught me drinking your blood." Aaron looked back at the church and smiled. "Me too." End Chapter 4 Notes: OK OK I know I said the 4th chapter would end at the same place as the 3rd but I goofed OK?, Sometimes these chapters come out longer than I expected. The 5th chapter should be the one that brings everything back together. (I hope) Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 5 As their car pulled away, Duncan turned to Methos. "All right, Methos, who was that?" "An old friend of Darius." Methos shrugged. "And an old friend of mine." "Does he know who you really are?" Amanda took her eyes from the road as she asked the question. "Amanda!" Duncan yelled as the car started to veer into the oncoming lane. Jerking the wheel, Amanda brought the car back into the proper lane. "Sorry." She didn't look very contrite. Then she asked again. "Does he?" "No," Methos admitted. "He thinks I'm about the same age as he is." "So how long had he known Darius?" "I'm not sure," Methos said. "I think about 1500 or so years. They met just before Darius became a priest. Darius was really tight lipped about him. I never did find out why." "I thought you're his friend too?" Amanda asked. "I am, he'd been an Immortal for about a hundred years when we first met. We touched bases every few centuries but I lost touch with him about a thousand years ago." "What happened?" Duncan was curious about the way Methos said it. "He went crazy." Methos' voice was flat. "Crazy? Oh that's just great." Amanda muttered. "What else could you call it." Methos voice was exasperated. "He'd just lost someone he cared for and he went berserk. He went after every Immortal he could find. It got to the point were other Immortals left town as fast as they could if he showed up." "You're joking." Duncan interrupted. "No one's that good." "He didn't have to be!" Methos' voice still held the sharp tones. "He didn't care, he took risks that no one sane would take." Methos managed to calm his voice. "He wanted to die but he wasn't willing to just lay down. The all or nothing attacks he used, unnerved every one of the Immortals he faced." "He looked pretty sane to me. So what happened?" Amanda asked as she stopped at a light. "You've got me, About a hundred years after he started killing, he just stopped again. Darius said something brought him back to his senses. But the Chronicles are blank at that point. I asked Darius once and he just smiled at me." Methos shrugged. "I've never had the nerve to ask Aaron to his face." "Why afraid he'd try to take your head?" Amanda teased "Actually, afraid he'd succeed." Methos replied. Duncan and Amanda were just finishing lunch on the barge when the buzz of an approaching Immortal put them on their guard. Before either of them could ready a sword they heard Methos' voice calling out. "Duncan?" "Come on in ," Duncan answered. As Methos entered Duncan realized that he was feeling at least three Immortals. "Is there someone with you?" "You could say that." A familiar voice answered him. "Connor?" "Don't forget me." A youthful voice replied. "Richie? What are you doing here?" Duncan sounded angry. "It's my fault really" a woman's voice called out. "I asked him to come." Duncan watched as a middle-aged woman walked into the room. He looked her over, brown hair tinged with gray, medium build and height, he had never seen her before. "And you are?" "Joanna Hall." The woman answered. "I'm a friend of Joe's." "A friend?" Duncan gave her a long look. "Yes, I'm a watcher." She nodded. Then she blurted out. "Joe's missing." "WHAT!" Duncan was on his feet. "What happened!?" "I wish I knew." Richie looked even more upset than Duncan. "I went to pay him a visit, and someone had trashed the bar. There was no sign of Joe anywhere." "But something was delivered to Joe's apartment a few day's later." Joanna handed Duncan a Video camera. Duncan put the camera down and hit play. The LCD screen filled with a image of Joe in some kind of prison cell. The camera's point of view changed and suddenly Duncan knew what was going on. He hit pause and stared at the man who was pointing the camera at himself. "Ellsworth, You bastard." Duncan said to figure on the screen. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Virginia 1864 Duncan watched as the small Union force tried desperately to escape it's larger Confederate foe. Slowly he moved to intercept them. Once he was close enough he called out softly to the Union sergeant. "This way." "Who, might you be then?" The sergeant replied. "A friend, now if you want to get away, follow me." Duncan quickly began moving away. "Can't be any worse than this, lads." The sergeant and his men followed Duncan. "What happened?" Duncan asked when the sergeant had caught up with him. "Our fool of a lieutenant, God rest his soul, got us lost from the rest of the army then walked us into an ambush." Shaking his head the sergeant continued. "It's a good thing he got killed in the first exchange or I would have should the fool, myself." Duncan led them to an old underground tunnel. "If we go through here, we'll be able to close it behind us and they'll have to go around. It'll take them an hour at least." "An hour we can use to get away," the sergeant motioned to his men. "Let's go lads." As the went through the old tunnel, Duncan suddenly felt the presence of another Immortal. "Hurry, they're right behind us." He urged the men faster. As the first of the men reached the end of the tunnel, Duncan turned around and started back to the other end of the tunnel. "Where're you going?" The sergeant grabbed his arm. "Someone has to slow them down." Duncan explained. Duncan as almost at the middle of the tunnel when he felt the other Immortal approaching. Slowly another form came into view. "I am Duncan Macleod." "Captain Jonathan Ellsworth, Army of Virginia and you're interfering in my business." "Your business." Duncan said in a mocking voice. "Yes, my business and none of yours." Ellsworth replied. "I'm making it mine." Duncan returned. Ellsworth drew his saber and advanced on Duncan. "Then I guess this is how we end it." "Not quite." Duncan said as he kicked at the support beams. The tunnel groaned as the beams began giving way. The initial shower of rock and gravel drove the two men back. "I swear I'll make you suffer for this, Macleod." Duncan could hear Ellsworth cry out over the sound of the falling rocks. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ "Are you trying to tell me he's mad at you for that?" Amanda looked at Duncan as though he had lost his mind. "From what I gather," Duncan replied. "He feels that if you get in his way, you're an enemy that needs to be punished." "Wait'll you hear him." Joanna said. Duncan turned back to the video and hit play. In it Ellsworth had begun to speak. "Macleod, I'm going to make this simple and sweet. His head for yours. You show up at the old warehouse on the Seine, you know the one I mean. If you don't show by the 21st, I'll cut your friends head off. After I've cut off all the other protruding parts of his body, what's left of them." "That sonofabitch." Richie said as he watched the video. A quick stare from Duncan quieted him. "Oh, yes." The camera view changed to show another man in the cell next to Joe's. This gentleman's name is Daniel and he's a friend of another person that I owe. He's in Paris right now and I'm sure your watcher friends can tell you where. His name is Aaron DeShalle. Give him the same message will you?" Duncan just sat there as the image shut off. "Who the hell is Aaron DeShalle?" "You just met him." Methos answered. "Aaron DeShalle was the name Aaron Grey used in the 1502, I think I'd better call him." "I already did." Connor replied. "He and Theresa will be here soon." "I think we'd better wait for them then." Amanda noted. Aaron and Theresa arrived shortly after Duncan finished watching the video. Duncan made the introductions. Pointing to each person in turn. "You already know Connor, Adam and Amanda. This is Joanna Hall and Richie Ryan." "Hi, Aaron Grey" Aaron shook their hands. "Theresa Ryan." Theresa extended her hand. Richie shook Theresa's hand "Same last name, maybe we're related." Theresa smiled and slowly shook her head. "I really don't think so." Aaron watched the video silently as Ellsworth made his threats. Theresa watched her husband with a worried look in her eyes. Aaron was never this quiet unless he was in a towering rage. When the video ended, Aaron stood up, turned to Duncan and asked. "Where's this warehouse." "You're not going there alone." Connor tried to reason with Aaron. Aaron looked a Connor then laughed. "Actually I was planning on letting Terry reconnoiter, then once I had the layout, call in a few favors and hit that place with enough firepower to refight World War II." "Right idea, wrong plan." Connor looked at Duncan and the others. "I think we should take care of this together." Duncan nodded. "We've got 2 weeks to come up with a plan." "I think it would be easier if we planned this at our place." Theresa said. "Why?" Amanda asked. "For one thing, our living room is bigger." Theresa looked around the crowded room pointedly. "Point taken." Methos replied. "I've got good news and bad news." Theresa said as she returned from the warehouse. "Bad news first." Aaron said. "He's got help. Hunters, I think." "How would you know that?" Duncan asked. "Some of them have the tatoos and they're all armed." "How did you get close enough to see that?" "Ninja training." Theresa said with an innocent smile. She ignored the odd look that Duncan gave her and continued. "The good news is, they're on the top floor so I can get to them easily." Aaron sighed as he and Connor went over the blueprints to the warehouse again. They'd been going over everything for over a week making sure that the plan would work. There were penciled in changes all over the blueprint from Terry's description of the changed interior. Aaron smiled as he saw Duncan give Theresa another odd look. He'd been doing that ever since asking his question. "Where's Amanda?" Duncan asked. "She said something about gettting some gear together." Methos answered from the kitchen. "Something about being prepared for anything." Aaron started to say something when all five Immortals suddenly felt the buzz. "Might be Amanda." "Maybe, Maybe not." Duncan said as he drew his sword. The others followed his example as Theresa went to the window. "You won't believe this, it's Nick and Natalie." "Who're they?" Richie asked. "Natalie's the newest Immortal, and my student. Nick's her friend." As Theresa let Nick and Natalie in, Aaron smiled tiredly and said. "Hi Nick, Nat. Boy did you pick the wrong time to come to Paris." Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 6 Nick and Natalie listened as Aaron explained the situation. When it was over, Nick walked over to the blueprints and picked them up. "And you're planning an all out assault? What about Daniel and Joe?" "Theresa's going to free them before the others hit the warehouse." Aaron explained. "What a minute." Duncan interrupted. "No one said anything about Theresa freeing them." "Who did you think?" Aaron replied. "It can be one of the others, Ellsworth would sense them. And Joanna can't make it to the top of the roof." "And Theresa can?" Duncan insisted. "What happens if someone spots her?" "Look, I can take of myself." Theresa stood up and faced Duncan. "And what would you do if someone were to grab you like this." Duncan grabbed her arm, trying to show her what could happen. Before he could get any further, Duncan suddenly felt his legs go out from under him and a sledgehammer hit him in his gut. When he could breathe again, he saw Theresa smiling at him. "Oh, something like that." She said in a saccharine voice. Duncan rolled onto his stomach and slowly made his way to his knees. Methos helped him the rest of the way up. Duncan took one look at his face and said. "Not one word." Methos kept a straight face until Duncan could stand on his own then began grinning like a fool. "Sorry, Duncan, But she did tell you." Natalie was covering her mouth to hide her grin, she had been hard pressed not to laugh when Theresa had yanked Duncan into the air and slammed him down so fast that she had almost been a blur. "Serves you right for that chauvinistic reaction, Mr. Macleod." "Call me Duncan, or Mac, and it has nothing to do with chauvinism." "Oh?" Natalie replied archly. "No," he looked offended. "It has to do with the fact we're Immortal and she isn't" "I see." Natalie turned away so that Duncan couldn't see her smile. Amanda finished watching the video for the third time, frowning she looked over at Aaron. "Aaron, I know what Mac did to get Ellsworth mad at him, but what did you do?" "Stopped him from killing a family." Aaron replied. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ South Carolina 1855 Aaron could see the flames just over the crest of the hill. As he rode toward the flames, he could see a man standing in front of a burning building. As he got closer he recognized the buzz of a fellow Immortal. Stopping, he dismounted and approached the man on foot. "What's going on?" "None of your concern." The other Immortal said brusquely. Suddenly Aaron heard sounds coming from within the house. Screams of fear and rage. "There are people in there!" "That's right." the Immortal said. "Damned abolitionists, deserve what they get." Aaron went to the rear of the house and began tearing off the boards that had been used to seal the rear door. "Stop!" the other Immortal shouted. "If you free them, then you'll answer to me." "So be it." Aaron drew his sword. "Johnathan Ellsworth." "Aaron DeShalle" Aaron gave a name he had used last in the 1500s. On the off chance they couldn't finish this, he didn't want Ellsworth to track him down right away. Aaron was driven by the knowledge that if he didn't finish Ellsworth fast, the people inside the house would die. The two of them cut at each other for several seconds, then Aaron finished the fight with a sudden thrust into Ellsworth's heart. Leaving the sword in Ellsworth, Aaron returned to ripping the boards off the back door. Finally the last board gave way and a frightened family ran out. Aaron went back to finish the job on Ellsworth when he heard the shouts of the local Militia. "Some other time Ellsworth," Aaron grabbed his sword and rode off into the woods. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Natalie shook her head. "He sounds insane if you ask me. Keeping a grudge for over a hundred years." "It happens," Methos replied. "Some feuds have gone on for generations, simply because they've forgotten how not to fight." Nick went over the plan in his head. "How are you going to keep Ellsworth from noticing you?" "We're not." Aaron replied. "Theresa will free Daniel and Joe and then Duncan and I will go in through the front doors, just like he wants." "Then the rest of us come in like the proverbial Cavalry." Methos finished. "I'm going in with Theresa." Nick decided. "What!?" Eight voices said simultaneously. "I can get on the roof as easily as she can, and she might need help." Nick explained. "No..." Duncan started to object. "He's a police officer, Macleod, He can take care of himself." Aaron interrupted. Duncan took one look at the obstinate expression on Nick's face and gave up. "All right so when do we do this?" "I think tomorrow night would be best, dark of the moon and all." Methos stated. "Tomorrow night it is then." End Chapter 6 Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 7 Theresa and Nick landed on the roof exactly on schedule. Theresa watched as two men left the room with the cells. "They just finished checking Joe and Daniel, they won't be back for another 15 minutes." She quickly forced open the window leading to the top floor. Landing to the right of the cells, she walked over and knocked on the bars. "Either of you two call for a locksmith?" "Theresa!?" Daniel stared. "What are you doing here?" "That's an original question." Theresa smiled. "We're here to break you out." "How are you going to manage that." Daniel nodded his head towards Joe Dawson. "Well, I can try this." Theresa looked over at Joe. "Joe, I want to listen very carefully to me. Sit down on the bed and go to sleep. You're very tired aren't you?" "Yes, very tired." Joe's monotone voice answered Theresa's question. Slowly he walked over to the bed and lied down. Theresa grinned with relief. "I'm glad that worked, lately I've been thinking that everybody and their cousin was a resister." Turning around she glanced at the door. "Nick, I think you'd better watch the door. When I open these cells, there's going to be a lot of noise." Nick nodded and headed for the door. He eased it open and looked outside. Walking down the corridor, he listened for a few minutes then returned. "The areas clear, I don't think anyone's on this floor." "Good," Theresa grabbed the area around the lock and pulled hard. The metal gave way with a screeching sound that caused all three to wince. Finally she had both cell doors open. Grabbing Joe, Nick flew back up through the skylight. Theresa followed carrying Daniel. Once they were back on the roof, Theresa tied ar ope around the end of a pipe then dropped it through the skylight. Then she gently woke Joe up. "Wha... How did we get out of the cell?" Joe said in a dazed voice. "I picked the lock of course." Theresa again used the whammy to mesmerize Joe. "Of course." Joe replied. Then he shook his head. "Who are you?" "Theresa Ryan," Theresa pointed to Nick. "This is Nick Knight, we're friends." Joe shook his head to clear it. "What's going on?" "Well, in about 1 minute, Aaron and Duncan are going to walk into the warehouse and get Ellsworth to come out into the open. Then Amanda, Adam and Connor are going to hit this place from the back. With any luck, they'll take everyone but Ellsworth by surprise." "What are we supposed to do?" Joe asked. "You are going to stay up here out of harm's way." Nick answered. Then he reinforced this with the whammy. "You won't move until one of us comes to get you, do you understand?" "Yes." "Good." Nick and Theresa grabbed the roped and lowered themselves back into the building. Aaron adjusted his coat and looked over at Duncan. "Ready?" "After you." Duncan replied. They headed down the driveway to the front door. Before they reached the door, both felt the presence of Ellsworth in the building. Duncan leaned over and whispered. "How many men does Ellsworth have again?" "10, at least that's what Terry said." Aaron whispered back. Duncan nodded and pushed open the door. He heard Aaron draw his sword as he walked into the darkened structure. He looked over to Aaron as the two of them stood there. Aaron had his sword in his hand and was looking around waiting for an attack. "Welcome, gentlemen." Ellworth's voice rang out as the lights came on. Duncan counted 11 people in the room. 5 on the ground floor and 6 on the 2nd floor walkway. Ellsworth stood in the center of the room flanked by 4 hunters. At his signal two of the 6 headed for the 3rd floor, probably to get Daniel and Joe. Duncan thought. Ellsworth suddenly stiffened. "They aren't alone!, kill them then find the others!" Duncan and Aaron dove for cover as the hunters pulled out various types of firearms and took aim and fired. After he managed to get behind some old machinery, Aaron put his sword away and pulled out a Browning HiPower pistol. "You're carrying a gun?" Duncan couldn't keep the disgust out of his voice. "Look, where in the code or in any other code of honor is there a part that says _You will let them use you for target practice_?" Aaron shook his head at the look on Duncan's face. "I don't usually carry one, but with the hunters? All bets are off." Aaron went to a crouch and returned fire. When he had run out of bullets, he ducked back behind the machinery and replaced the clip. Duncan watched as one of the hunters fell back with a cry of pain. "You emptied the clip and only managed to hit one of them?" "Hey, I never said I was a good shot." Aaron looked around and saw a fuse box. "Hang on," He fired at the box, shorting out some of the lights. "Let's move." The two of them split up and used the shadows caused by the flickering lights to evade the hunters fire. Amanda moved through the sporadic darkness trying to find Ellsworth, suddenly through darkness she made out 2 figures with their backs towards her. Stepping up behind them, she decked one with the flat of her sword and the other with a side kick that sent him headfirst into a pylon. "Two down" she grinned as she headed off. Connor ran up the stairs to the cells, if Nick and Theresa were still up there then the two hunters might give them trouble. As he reached the third floor he saw the body of a hunter come through the door and hit the wall with a dull thud. As he turned the corner he saw the bodies of two of the hunters on the floor of the hallway. Suddenly something slammed him up against the wall, causing him to drop his sword. All Connor saw was the glowing yellow eyes and the sharp extended canines, then a familiar voice came from the visage. "Connor?" Theresa's eyes went back to their normal green. "Are you OK?" "I'm not sure." Connor stared at her. "Were your eyes glowing a second ago?" "Yes." "Then I guess I'm OK. Where's Knight?" Theresa released him and started to point to the door to the cell room when another hunter came flying form the room into the hallway. "Never mind." Connor said. Aaron walked through the darkness, eyes roaming, looking for the other hunters. From the lessening sounds of gunfire the others were making things miserable for the hunters. Feeling the buzz from a nearby Immortal, Aaron put the gun away and drew his sword. Turning the corner he came face to face with Duncan. "Damn!" "Have you seen anybody?" Duncan asked. "No..." Aaron's voice trailed off as the two turned to look around. They saw Ellsworth running for one of the exits. Running after him the two of them went full tilt into a pair of hunters that had intended to ambush them. Aaron dropped his sword and grabbed his opponents rifile. Jerking the rifle up, he smashed it into the surprised hunters face with enough force to break his jaw. Turning he saw Duncan finish the other one by pulling him into an arm bar and slamming him into a wall. "Where's Ellsworth?" Duncan looked around. "That way." Aaron pointed down the hall. "Whoever gets to him first gets to finish him." "Fine by me." Duncan started to head past Aaron, then he turned and hit Aaron full force in his jaw. Aaron spun around and he fell to the ground. "Sorry but Ellsworth's mine." He put Aaron into a nearby room and jammed the door shut. As Duncan headed down the hall he heard the sound of footsteps from behind him. He felt the bullets hit his body a split second before he heard the shots. He twisted as he fell, landing on his back. He could see the rapidly blurring form of a hunter approaching him. "Time to die, freak." Duncan could hear the Hunter say. Before the hunter could move the point of a sword appeared from his chest. As he slid down, Duncan could just make out Amanda's face as she knelt down beside him. "What would you do without me Mac?" Duncan's eyes went dark before he could answer her. Conner turned the corner of the hallway just in time to see Aaron kick open the door of the room. "What happened?" Aaron worked his jaw back and forth a couple of times then answered "I hope you're not to fond of you kinsman, Connor. Because he's dead when I find him" "Why, what did he do?" "Sucker punched me." Aaron answered. "It figures, He learned that one from me." The headed down the corridor to see Amanda kneeling before Duncan's unmoving body. "Looks like someone beat you to it." Connor remarked. "Yeah, but this one's not permanent." Duncan came around to see the others standing over him. "Where's Ellsworth?" "Beats me." Aaron replied. "Come to think of it where's Adam?" Just then they saw and felt the force of an unleashed quickening outside. "Methos" Duncan said. Jonathan Ellsworth ran from the building as fast as he could. He'd get even with them if it was the last thing he did. For now though, survival was the higher priority. Suddenly he felt another Immortal, drawing his sword he advanced to see a tall slim man waiting for him. "Out of my way, this is none of your business." "It is now." Methos replied. "Why?" Ellsworth circled Methos. "Because they're my friends." "So, one of them will still be after your head one of these days." "Maybe, but not tomorrow and not the day after." "What does that mean?" "It means that I've spent to bloody long just surviving. It took losing someone precious to me to realize that surviving isn't living, living is friends and people that care. And I'll be damned if I'm going to let you go after all this." Methos swung his sword with a fire that he hadn't felt in years. He thought. It was all Ellsworth could do just to keep him at bay. Finally Methos thrust through Ellsworth's defenses and the point of his sword entered Ellsworth just below the ribcage. As Ellsworth fell to his knees, he asked. "Who are you." "Methos." Ellsworth tried to laugh. "You're a myth." "Keep thinking that." Methos severed Ellsworth's head with a single stroke. Methos felt the surge of power as the quickening hit him. Twisting like a leaf in the wind he was buffeted around as windows and lights exploded around him. Falling to his knees, he stayed there trying to clear his head. He was still in that position when the others found him. End Chapter 7 Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 8 Duncan was the first to reach Methos. Stopping just short of the scene of the battle, he gave a sigh of relief. "I wasn't sure who won." "I'd say it was obvious." Methos replied. "Now." Aaron said with a grin. As he help Methos to his feet he said. "So you're Methos?" Methos gave both Duncan and Amanda dirty looks. Amanda held her hands in front of her and said "Hey, don't look at me. Duncan's the one that blabbed." "Thanks," Duncan said out of the corner of his mouth. "I guess the good guys won?" Richie and Natalie arrived at a run. "I thought I told you to stay with the cars?" Duncan chastised Richie. "I say the quickening and wanted to help." Richie explained. "What if Ellsworth had won?" Duncan asked angrily. "I guess I would have had to face him." Richie answered. "Right, and he would have killed you." "You don't know that." Aaron grabbed Duncan's shoulder and turned him. "I don't want to sound like I'm butting in, but isn't this something that you should be discussing in _private_?" Duncan nodded. "Yes," he calmed down a little. "Sorry Richie." "No problem." Richie looked relieved. As he walked past Aaron he whispered "Thanks." "No problem." Aaron echoed Richie's words. As they headed back to the warehouse, they saw Nick, Theresa, Joe and Daniel coming out. Theresa saw Aaron and ran over to him. Grabbing him in a fierce hug she said. "We saw the quickening I thought my heart would stop." The she whispered "permanently." Aaron just smiled at her. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Nick giving Natalie a similar hug. As they headed back to the cars, Theresa leaned in and whispered. "Connor knows what I am." Aaron almost stopped in shock, then made it look like a stumble. "How?" He whispered back. "When we were taking care of the hunters upstairs," She shrugged. "I almost put him through a wall. He might suspect about Nick too." "Here we go again." Aaron rolled his eyes to the heavens. Theresa started laughing. When they got to the cars, Connor got into the one with Theresa, and Aaron. "I have to talk with you." he said as he sat down. "Let me guess, you want to know how long I've known about Theresa, Right?" Aaron asked as he pulled the car out. "Right." Connor nodded. "Since 1020." "What?" Connor's voice was half laughter, half astonishment. Aaron laughed "C'mon, Connor, you didn't think we just got together did you?" "I knew you'd been together at least 10 years," Connor replied. "But I never suspected..." "No one but Darius knew" Theresa interrupted. "We preferred it that way." Connor shook his head. "What do you do to people who find out?" "Well, Theresa could always try to make you forget. Or I could kill you." "You could try." Connor smiled and laughed. "Or I could try." Theresa smiled back, her fangs extended. Connor suddenly felt like a bird looking at a snake. The smile disappeared from his face. "You wouldn't" Theresa stared at him for the longest time, watching him squirm, then she laughed. "No, Connor, you're too good a friend." Connor gave a sigh of relief. "I promise I won't say a word to anyone. Besides, who'd believe me?" Carrying two beers, Aaron walked into the yard behind their house. Standing in the center of the yard, Methos looked at him nervously. Walking over Aaron handed him one of the beers. Opening the can, Methos took a long, slow drink. "Not bad but weak." "Not like the old days." Aaron agreed as he sipped his beer. "Did you ever remember that recipe for the world's finest beer that you kept telling me about?" "As a matter of fact, I did then I forgot it again." The two of them laughed. After a while Aaron raised his beer. "To absent friends?" "To absent friends." Methos nodded. The two stood lost in their own thoughts. Finally Aaron spoke up. "So you're really Methos?" "Last time I checked the mirror, yes." "So who's Methos?" Natalie asked from the doorway. "The oldest living Immortal." Methos bowed. "At your service." "OK, now what's so special about that?" Natalie asked. "He's supposed to be 5000 years old." Aaron explained. "A myth, none of us believed he was real." "I'm sorry I asked." Natalie said. Then she asked. "Have you ever...." "Found a reason for all this? No." Methos replied. "Duncan pretty much asked me the same thing." He explained when they stared at him. "How did you survive this long?" Aaron asked. "Hiding, mostly." Methos admitted. "That's part of the reason I joined the watchers to begin with." "To keep track of the other Immortals." Natalie finished. "Exactly." Methos sighed as he looked out at the night sky. "I've spent hundreds of years just getting by, trying to stay out of the way of the others. Now I'm right in the middle of everything again." "You don't sound all that upset." Aaron noticed. "I'm not." Methos thought about it. "Maybe that's why I stick with Duncan. He gets me involved in things, reminds me how to care again." Aaron and Natalie didn't have much to say about that and the three Immortals simply stood and enjoyed each others company. Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 9 The presence of another Immortal woke Aaron up earlier than normal the next day. Grabbing his sword from under the bed, he slowly made his way to the door. Looking out the peephole he saw Connor's grinning face. Aaron checked to make sure the bedroom door was closed then let Connor in. "Not enough sleep?" Connor noticed the weariness in Aaron's face. "I don't usually get up this early." "What, early? Its nearly noon." Aaron yawned. "Connor, I usually stay up till 7 am and then sleep till 3, This is early for me." "So you gave up sunlight to be with Theresa?" Connor asked. "No, I just don't enjoy being out as much if Terry isn't with me." "I was just wondering, how did you keep it a secret for so long." "Simple," Theresa said from the doorway. "Any time Aaron felt an Immortal nearby, I just did this." Suddenly she was right beside Connor. "None of you ever saw me." Connor suddenly snapped his fingers. "I think I did see you once." "When?" Theresa wanted to know. "Boston, 1782" Connor replied. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Boston 1782 Connor laughed as Aaron poured him another drink. "You actually jumped off the London bridge?" He asked. Aaron shrugged "It was either that or try to explain to the watch how I happened to be on the bridge with a dead body." Connor turned to stare at a statuesque brunette that had just entered the inn. "Excuse me for a moment." He stood up and walked over to talk to the brunette for a long time. At first the woman seemed amused by whatever Connor was saying, then suddenly she turned red and slapped him hard across the face. As Connor sat back down, Aaron asked him. "What did you say to her?" "None of your business." Connor went back to serious drinking. Aaron looked over Connor's shoulder and smiled. Getting up he said. "Sorry, Connor, I have to go." "Sure, no problem." Connor watched as Aaron made his way through the crowded Inn. Stopping next to a small red head, Aaron pulled her into an embrace and the two headed out the door. "He certainly had better luck than I did." Connor said out loud. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ "I never got a good look at her face, but she was you wasn't she?" Connor asked Theresa. Theresa smiled. "Yes, that was me." "And here I thought Aaron was in a rut." Nick answered the door to their apartment. "Hi, Aaron, Theresa, I didn't expect to see you." "I guess not, Natalie isn't here." Aaron stated. "How did, Never mind." Nick shook his head. "Now I know how Natalie felt." "So where'd she go?" Theresa asked "Just to get a bite to eat. She'll be back shortly." Aaron suddenly turned to the door. "Try she's back." He opened the door to let Natalie in. "Hi, Aaron, I thought it was you." Natalie smiled as she entered the apartment. "Theresa," she hugged Theresa in welcome. "I'm glad you're here, Aaron." Nick said. "I wanted to ask you to be my best man." "Best man?" Aaron asked. "As in you asked Natalie to marry you and she said yes?" Nick's grin was answer enough. "Congratulations Natalie!" Theresa smiled. "Is there anything I can do to help?" "I need a maid of honor." Natalie replied. "I'd be ecstatic." Theresa's smile grew larger. "How big a wedding and when?" "The sooner the better," Nick answered her. "We've waited long enough as is." "He seems a bit impatient." Aaron remarked. "Good for him." Theresa said to Natalie. "Would you believe it took him 300 years to ask me to marry him?" Natalie laughed, "I'd say that was long courtship." Aaron shrugged. "I was ready to ask you after the second year, but I didn't want to ruin what we already had." Nick decided to get things back on track. "I was thinking in a week, but we need a minister." "I might be able to find someone," Aaron mused. "Who's invited?" "I was thinking of inviting the others." Natalie replied. Nick nodded. "A small wedding." "One things for sure." Theresa added. "This can't be in a chapel. How about an outdoor ceremony?" Natalie was thrilled with the idea. "Perfect, a nice evening ceremony." Aaron thought about it. "Let me make a couple of calls to see what I can set up." End chapter 9. Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 10 Natalie looked at herself in the mirror and sighed. "I can't believe that Nick wants me to wear this." Theresa looked closely at the flowing white gown. "What's wrong with it?" "Don't you think it's a bit much?" Amanda smiled. "No, it's not every day a woman gets married." "But have you taken a good look at this?" Natalie waved her hand at the long train. "It's almost 6 feet long." "Please, Miss, do not move about unnecessarily." The dressmaker asked. "I know this is a rush job but if you do not remain still, I will never be finished." "Sorry," Natalie replied. She tried to remain still until the dressmaker had finished marking the gown, then removed it with a sigh of relief. "Natalie, you can tell me to get lost if you like, but are you sure you want to go through with this?" Theresa and Natalie both turned to stare at Amanda. "What do you mean? Am I sure?" "It's just, well I'm the last person to be talking about relationships." Amanda shrugged. "But, Nick isn't one of us, eventually he will grow old and die." She bit her lip. "Sorry, that was a little blunt wasn't it? But it's still true." Natalie watched as Theresa turned away to hide the silent case of the giggles that had overtaken her. "I've waited nearly six years for this day." Natalie replied. "I'll take whatever time fate gives me with Nick." "I do wish you all the best Natalie. I just thought I should say something." "Believe me, I understand." Natalie smiled enigmatically as they got ready to leave. "So where is everybody else?" Natalie asked Theresa as they left the shop. "Oh around." Theresa answered. Natalie stared at Theresa. She was being awfully evasive all of a sudden. "What's going on?" "Nothing..." Theresa smiled. "They're just running a few errands that's all. I'll see you at the house." She waved as she walked off. Amanda looked at her watch. "Sorry Natalie, but I have to get going too." With that she sprinted off. Natalie watched Amanda run off and decided to follow her. Careful not to get in range of the buzz, she tailed Amanda all the way to the river. Once there she saw Aaron and Methos discussing something in front of Duncan's barge. The two turned to look at her as she got within range. The look on their faces reminded her of schoolboys caught doing something wrong. "What's going on here?" She asked. "Not much." Aaron said innocently. "Aaron..." Natalie said ominously. Before Aaron could answer two small tugs pulled up, one of them towing a rundown barge similar to Duncan's. "Right there!" Methos shouted to the unencumbered barge. He waved it in front of Duncan's home. "All right, Aaron, I really want to know what you're doing." Natalie's voice announced that she wasn't going to budge until she had a few answers. Aaron grinned at her. "We're moving Duncan's barge. Then we're going to replace it with that one." He pointed to the rundown barge behind the second tug. "And?" Natalie asked. "We sink it." Aaron's grin grew wider. "With the way Duncan feels about the barge, he should be pretty upset." "Aaron, that's vicious." She managed to look both appalled and intrigued at the same time. "It was Theresa's idea." Aaron shrugged. "Although I have to admit I do like it." "Why?" "I let it slip that Duncan knocked me out when we attacked the warehouse. It was either this or she was going to throw him through every wall in Paris." "So why this?" Natalie asked. She knew what Nick would have done if Duncan had hit her. And she couldn't imagine why Theresa hadn't simply acted. "Because I wouldn't let her." Aaron explained. "If someone gets even with Duncan, I wanted to be in on it." "And who else is in on it?" "Amanda, Methos and Richie." "I feel like a broken record but why?" "Methos is a little upset with Duncan for giving away his secret. Richie and Amanda are just helping. Although I think Richie might just be upset about being bawled out in front of the rest of us." "Where's Richie?" "He's keeping Duncan busy." "You do know, you're all acting like children." Natalie headed off shaking her head. "Immortals..." "So what did she say?" Methos asked as came back from giving the tug captain instructions. "She said we were acting like children." "We are." "I know but if this works, it'll be worth it." Duncan returned from his walk with Richie exhausted. Richie had asked for his help to find a present for a girl he had met, then had dragged him through every shop in Paris. As they approached the river, Duncan could see the others looking at something near the barge. Suddenly Duncan began running, he couldn't see the barge! "What happened!?" He cried out as he saw the remains of a barge. He stopped in shock at the sight. "I don't know." Theresa looked stricken. "We just arrived and found it like this." She waved her hand over the barge. "Damn!" Duncan lowered himself onto the submerged deck and disappeared under the water. He surfaced again and stared angrily at the group grinning at him from shore. "Ha Ha, very funny, now where is it." That was enough for the others. They began laughing. Theresa finally managed to point to a spot up river about 200 yards. Duncan pulled himself wet and dripping from the river. "I hope that was amusing to you." "Actually I voted for breaking every bone in your body." Theresa replied icily. "Do you know what could have happened to Aaron after you decked him?" "I was trying to keep him alive." "How? By knocking him out and then stuffing him in a room where a hunter might have gotten to him?" "But..." Duncan stammered out before Theresa cut him off. "You're just lucky he wasn't killed. But if you ever try a stunt like that again. I swear..." She stopped herself before she resorted to threats. "Paybacks a bitch, isn't Macleod." Aaron smiled at him as he walked away. Duncan turned to look at the others. "OK," He looked at Methos "so I shouldn't have called you by your real name, and I shouldn't have bawled Richie out in front of everyone. But why did you get involved Amanda?" "Because it sounded like fun to ruffle your feathers a little." Amanda answered. "Besides you look cute with ruffled feathers." "Oh?" "C'mon, Mac, it was just a joke." Richie exclaimed. Duncan looked back at the sunken barge. His lips quirked up for a moment. "How much did this cost?" "I don't know." Methos replied. "Aaron paid for it all. I did hear him refer to it as the world's most expensive practical joke." "I guess, I did deserve some form of payback.." Duncan looked at the others. They simply nodded and smiled at him. "OK," He sighed. "I apologize, I acted a bit like a jerk and I'm sorry." "That's OK Mac," Amanda said as she slipped her arm around his waist. "We love you anyway." End Chapter 10 Sorry this took so long, but Real Life AKA my job (BOO HISS) interfered with my finishing this earlier. Although I suppose I shouldn't be too harsh on it. It does pay for my internet access. :) Again I want to thank Rebecca Tanner, she suggested that maybe Duncan was due for some suffering because of what he did during the story. The practical joke idea seemed pretty good to me. :) Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=) Disclaimer: in chapter 1 This story, Aaron Grey and Theresa Ryan belong to me. Past, Present and Future. Kevin Matsumoto kevinm@pixi.com A Highlander/Forever Knight Crossover story Chapter 11 Andrea Rochelle was walking through customs when here cellular phone began ringing. Sighing she answered it. "Hi, Stefan." On the other end, Stefan chuckled. "So you're a psychic now?" "No, you're just the only person who has this number. So, what do you want?" "Exactly what are you doing in Toronto?" "Trying to find proof. You don't believe the evidence, so I'm going to get some proof that you will believe." "The evidence is too circumstantial. One drawing and one photograph. And a diary written by the sister of Nicholas De Brabant. All that proves is that the man existed, and that Detective Knight looks like him." "But what about St. Joan's account?" Andy insisted. "Again, nothing but a description that matches the drawing. There just isn't enough to convince me he's one of them." "Then I'll get more evidence. I don't care how good he hid his trail, there's proof somewhere." "You're a researcher, not a field operative." Stefan was upset. "All the better, I'll know where to dig to get the proof." "Andy, be careful. If he is one of them, then it could be very dangerous if he thinks you're hunting him." "Don't worry, I'll be very discrete." Andy assured him. "Call me in a couple of days. Regardless." "Very well, Bye." "Bye" Andy put the phone away and hailed a taxi. "Where to miss?" the driver asked. Andy gave him the address to a small hotel near the precinct where Nick worked. She thought. Natalie peeked out the door at the group of people gathered in the courtyard. She felt the butterflies in her stomach practicing aerial combat maneuvers. "I don't know if I can go through with this." She admitted. "We could always call it off." Theresa replied. "NO!, I mean... It's just nerves I guess." Theresa laughed softly "If you think your nerves are shot, I just saw Nick and I think he was about to pass out." "Can vampires faint?" Natalie asked. "I don't know but Nick sure looked like he might." Natalie started to laugh as well. "Feeling better?" Natalie took a deep breath and nodded. "Yes." "Then I think we're ready." Outside Nick was standing in front of the Minister, fidgeting. "When are they going to start?" "Second thoughts?" Aaron whispered "No!," Nick whispered back. "I just wish it was over." "You make it sound like surgery." Aaron teased. "Well, how did your wedding go?" Nick challenged. "I don't remember." "C'mon." Nick insisted "I swear, Nick, I don't remember. I can clearly remember everything up to when Theresa arrived at my side, then it's a blur until Darius urged me to kiss my bride." "Don't worry if you can't remember, either Nick." Richie smiled from the side. He patted a small camcorder. "I'll get it all on tape." Nick started to answer when the quartet he had hired started to play the wedding march. Turning he saw Natalie slowly walking down the cleared path.. Methos took her arm and escorted her to him. It seemed appropriate to Nick for the oldest of the Immortals to give Natalie away. Natalie saw Nick standing there waiting. Suddenly her mind filled with images. Nick for his part was also remembering the past. As she approached he whispered to her. "I love you Natalie. For as long as I live and beyond. I will love you." Natalie's smile was radiant as the Minister began with the familiar words. "Dearly beloved we are gathered here today..." The End. OK well I managed to end it on another Cliche :) For those of you who are upset about me leaving the Historian just hanging there, She will be in the next story. No promises when or how long. In the meantime. (Shameless plea for feedback) lemme know how you liked this one. Comments can be made to kevinm@pixi.com, All comments welcome, constructive criticisms will be accepted with gratitude, Compliments with stunned silence and Flames Grudgingly ignored.:> "Remember, You're the Brain, I'm the Brawn" :Detective Bobbie Mann "Technically, I'm the Brain and the Brawn" :And Eve Edison "So what does that make me?" :MANN & MACHINE "The one that can be killed." : Kevinm@pixi.com A Nick&NatPacker with Cousinly tendencies :=)