Return to Innocence

By Karen J. Brady

Standard Disclaimer:

Duncan MacLeod, Joe Dawson, Methos/Adam Pierson, James Horton, Matthew McCormick, and Tessa Noel are the property of Davis Panzer Productions. Richie Ryan is swimming in the River Denial and belongs to his fans now. He happens to like it there and won't go back until he's good and ready!

The following Clan MacSPAM members let me temporarily borrow their personalities for the other characters in this story. They deserve proper recognition and praise.

Daire Sinclair is based on Daire.
Sarah Richardson is based on Peaches.
Maria Lavallen is based on Ria.
Virginia Long Knife is based on Long Knife.
Billie Maxwell is based on Tessa.
Sunia is based on Irish.

Special thanks to my SPAMily for their participation throughout this whole process. Since this is my first piece of fan fiction that I've ever written, their willingness to be a part of it was much appreciated. I hope that I am able to describe their characters as accurately as possible. You guys are the greatest.

Also, special thanks again to Tessa who proof read the whole story for me. Without you, who knows how this story could've ended up.

Thanks!

Since this is my first piece of fan fiction, your thoughts and comments on the story would be greatly appreciated. Enjoy...

Sarah Richardson's office was quiet for once. Not normal for the head of the entire Watcher organization, but she appreciated the silence. She leaned back in her leather chair and ran her fingers through her long, golden hair. Suddenly, the phone rang, causing her to jump in surprise. She leaned forward in her chair and reached across the desk to pick up the ringing phone.

"Hello?" she said.

"Hello, Sarah." a man's voice said on the other line.

"Joe? Joe Dawson?" she inquired. "How the hell are you?"

"Great. Thanks for asking," came the response. "Listen, something's happened. Something big."

"Don't tell me that Horton is going at it again, please. I don't know if the Watchers could handle another situation like that one."

"No, no. Nothing like that." Joe responded.

"Well then, if it's not Horton, what is it?" she asked.

"A new immortal." Joe stated.

"Funny," Sarah said. "For a minute I thought you said that you spotted a new immortal." She laughed.

"I'm serious, Sarah." Joe said.

"Who?"

There was a slight pause on the other end. "Richie Ryan," he replied.

"Where?" she inquired.

"Seacouver."

"Damn it!" Sarah sharply remarked. "This is the last thing I need to deal with. Ever since Horton's killing spree, I don't have many Watchers left."

"I know, I know." Joe responded sympathetically. "I'll do what I can, but I still have my own assignment."

"No, no. Stick with MacLeod." she replied.

"What about Richie?" he asked.

"I'll have to work with what I have." she responded.

"Meaning?"

"I'll put a researcher out in the field," she said.

"Are you sure that's wise?" Joe asked her.

"Listen, Dawson. They may be a little rusty on their watching skills, but I'm a little short-handed here. I have to work with what I have." she said, raising her voice.

"Yeah, well, you know where to reach me if you need any help." Joe said.

"I know," Sarah remarked. "Good-bye."

She slammed the phone down on the receiver and pounded her fist down onto the top of her wooden desk. "Shit!" she shouted. She hurriedly strolled out from her desk and headed across the room.

Her office was big, the largest one in Watcher headquarters. After all, she did head up the whole organization. It hadn't been easy reaching that position. She too started off as a researcher, studying the life and times of Matthew McCormick, handing the information off to his Watcher. Then, his Watcher was killed and she was given the chance to move into the field. Being in the field was what she really loved. Knowing exactly what Matthew McCormick was doing at every moment of the day was exciting. However, when she was approached with the opportunity to head up the entire organization, she couldn't turn it down.

She reached her file cabinet at the other end of her office and slowly opened the top drawer. It was crammed full of files listing every researcher, Watcher, and worker that was in the building. She immediately began flipping through the files, looking for the perfect candidate to take Richie Ryan. She opened the middle drawer and continued the search. It was hopeless. There were just too many researchers. She slammed the drawer shut in defeat. Her head was starting to pound, making it even harder to concentrate on the task of finding a Watcher for the new immortal. She leaned her head on the top of the file cabinet and took a few deep breaths. Suddenly, there was a knock on her office door. She lifted her head and quickly fixed her hair.

"Come in," she called.

The door slowly opened. In walked a young woman, dressed in an emerald green satin shirt and a long, black skirt. She had long, curly, black hair that cascaded gently down her back. She quietly shut the door behind her.

"Geez, Sarah," she said. "You look like hell!"

"Thanks, Maria." Sarah responded.

Maria Lavallen smiled. "Can you talk?"

"Actually," Sarah responded. "I'm a little busy."

"With what?" Maria questioned.

"A problem."

"What sort of problem? Come on, Sarah. Tell me!" Maria pleaded.

Sarah glared at her. "It's not important."

Maria looked at her with her big, brown eyes. "Not important, huh? It sure looks like it's important."

"Shouldn't you be out trying to find Methos," Sarah snapped back. "I mean, that is your job. It's what I pay you to do."

Maria snickered. "Yeah, but you try hunting down a five thousand year old man. It's not as easy as it sounds. Come on, Sarah, tell me. Maybe I could help. "

Sarah sighed in defeat and began walking back over to her desk. Maria followed close behind, anxiously awaiting her answer. Sarah slumped down into her leather chair and indicated to Maria to take a seat in one of the chairs positioned directly opposite herself. She took the hint and slowly took a seat in one of the tan, leather chairs.

"So?" Maria said.

"Dawson called," she began. "He said that there was a new immortal here in Seacouver."

"Who?" Maria inquired.

Sarah sighed. "Richie Ryan."

"So," Maria said. "What's the problem?"

"Are you always this nosy?" Sarah asked.

Maria nodded. "Yes. Come on. Spill."

"The problem is that since I kicked all of Horton's Hunters out of the organization, I've been left short handed. I'm going to promote a researcher and put them in the field." she responded.

"Well, that makes sense." Maria said. "I still don't see the problem. "

"The problem is that there are too many researchers to choose from. Damn it. Why did this have to happen?"

"Calm down, Sarah." Maria said. "I'll find someone for you."

Sarah stared at her. "You?"

"Yeah, why not? In fact, I have the perfect person to take the case. "

"Who?"

Maria smiled. "Daire Sinclair."

Sarah turned to her computer and typed in her password. When she got to the Watcher database page she quickly entered the researcher's name. She hit enter and awaited the results. Finally, the file page on Daire Sinclair popped up. Sarah scanned the page and wrote down a few notes. Then she flipped off the computer and turned back to Maria.

"She's researching Sunia right now." Sarah said. "I'd hate to give her a different assignment."

"It's a promotion. Believe me Sarah, she won't mind one bit."

"I don't know, Maria. Can I trust her?"

"Sure," Maria responded. "Trust me on this one. Please."

Sarah sighed. "Alright. She can take the case."

Maria excitedly leapt out of her chair. "Yes! Please, let me tell her the news."

"Okay," Sarah said. "But if she screws up, you're at fault as well. "

"You won't be disappointed, I promise." Maria reassured her. "Thanks so much." She headed to the door and a quickly flung it open. The news she was about to give her friend was just too exciting. She ran out of the office and down the winding corridor towards the library where all of the researchers work. Her feet were pounding on the floor as she raced as fast as she could to the library door. She slowed her pace as she neared the library entrance. When she reached the door, she briefly stopped to straighten her outfit before she reached down to push the large wooden door open.

The library was packed with researchers desperately looking for links to their assignments pasts. Maria stepped inside and glanced around the large room. She saw no sign of Daire anywhere. She walked toward a table off in the corner of the room. A young man was seated there, reading a book. He was dressed in black jeans and a bulky grey sweater. She tapped him on the shoulder.

The young man turned around. "Do you mind?" he asked. "I'm trying to work here."

Maria smiled at him. "Sorry Adam. I didn't mean to bother you."

Adam Pierson stood up. "Oh, Maria. I didn't know it was you." he said in his soft British accent. "You look beautiful today. Actually, you look beautiful everyday."

Maria blushed. "Stop it Adam. You're embarrassing me."

"I know. Listen, if you're looking for information on Methos, I-"

Maria started laughing. It had been about a year now since she had found out that Adam Pierson was really Methos. She promised him that she'd never reveal his secret, but it was really funny to hear him talk about himself in the third person. "No, no. I'm looking for Daire Sinclair. Have you seen her?"

"Daire Sinclair? Doesn't she study Sunia?"

"Yeah," Maria said. "That's her. Have you seen her?"

Adam thought for a moment. "I thought I saw her digging through some old information on Ancient Rome."

"Thanks," Maria said, as she began to walk away.

"Hey," Adam shouted after her.

She spun around to face him. "What?"

Adam looked down at the floor. "Maybe you could come over and-"

Maria's eyes lit up. "Yes?"

"And study the Methos Chronicles with me."

Maria politely smiled. "Sure. I'll be there around seven?"

"Sounds good." Adam replied.

"Great," Maria said. "Hate to cut this short, but I've really got to talk to Daire."

"Oh, sorry. I'll see you later." Adam said.

Maria turned back around and began heading toward the Ancient Rome section of the library. She walked by the aisles of shelves, anxiously hoping to spot Daire somewhere in the section. She finally spotted her at the end of one of the aisles. "Daire!" she shouted.

Daire's shoulder length, curly, brown hair was pulled back in a ponytail. She was comfortably dressed in blue jeans and a loose fitting t-shirt, one of the many perks of being a researcher. She turned her attention away from the book she was looking at to see Maria rushing toward her.

"Hey Maria," she said. "What brings you to this part of the library? "

"You." Maria responded.

"Me?" Daire questioned. "What's so great about me?"

"I bring good news." Maria began. "You're heading out into the field. "

"I'm what?" Daire shouted. "What happened to Michael?"

"Nothing," Maria reassured her. "You won't be watching Sunia. You get your own case."

"Who?"

"Richie Ryan. He's in Seacouver. Congratulations, Daire. You're being promoted."

"Sure, Maria. And you're the head of the Watcher organization." she said sarcastically. "Stop kidding around."

"I'm not! I just got out of Sarah Richardson's office and she wants to give you this case." Maria said.

"Oh my god!" Daire screamed, dropping the book she was looking at. "I'm going to have my own case?"

Maria nodded.

"Oh my god!" Daire shouted as she began jumping up and down for joy. "When do I start?"

Adam Pierson walked over to the book shelf where Maria and Daire were standing. "SHHHH!" he whispered obnoxiously.

"That's the best part," Maria said. "Immediately."

Daire ran out from the bookcase and headed towards the library door. Many researchers turned to look at her, but then went back to what they were working on. Maria ran after her. Daire pushed the door open and rushed out into the hall. She let out a scream of excitement.

"Calm down, Daire." Maria said in a soothing voice. "Let me go to Joe's bar with you. He's gonna fill you in on Richie Ryan."

"Okay," Daire replied. "Let's go."

She and Maria walked to the nearest exit where Daire had parked her car. Once they were both in her red BMW, Daire started the car and quickly sped away.

Chapter 2:

Daire parked her car in front of the club's entrance. She and Maria opened the doors and stepped outside of the car. The afternoon sun was shining, yet due to a strong breeze, didn't seem to add any warmth to the day. The cool air didn't bother Daire though. She was way too excited about her newest assignment. She had never dreamed that she'd be out in the field, let alone have her own case.

"Well, are you ready?" Maria asked.

Daire smiled. "Yeah. Did you even need to ask?"

Maria slammed the door shut and walked to the front of the car. "I guess not. Come on, Daire. Joe's inside waiting."

"Right," Daire said. "I guess I'm just a little nervous, that's all. " She closed her door and clicked on the car alarm. She strolled up to the front door where Maria was already standing. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. She lingered at the door for a few seconds before finally reaching down and pulling it open.

The inside of the blues bar was smoky and loud. A band was off in the corner playing just loud enough to be heard over the noise of the customers. Daire glanced around the bar, taking the whole thing in.

"Joe's over there," Maria stated. "The older looking guy, with the beard."

Maria and Daire slowly made their way toward the bar. The band had just stopped playing and was clearing off the stage. Maria waved at Joe, who in return, waved back. When they arrived at the bar, Joe slowly made his way over to them.

"Maria Lavallen," Joe said. "It's great to see you again."

Maria blushed and gave a shy smile. "Aww. Thanks Joe."

Joe turned his attention to Daire. "And you are?"

"Joe Dawson, meet Daire Sinclair. She's Richie Ryan's Watcher." Maria said.

Joe held out his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Daire." She reached out her hand and to shake his. "Please, sit down."

Maria and Daire both took a seat at the bar. Joe leaned against the bar, and looked Daire up and down.

"So," he said. "You are going to be in the field."

Daire nodded.

Joe turned to Maria. "She doesn't talk much, does she?"

Maria laughed. "She's just a little shy when she's around people that she doesn't know."

Joe smiled. "I understand." He turned back to Daire. "So, you're going to watch Richie Ryan, huh?"

"Yeah." Daire responded.

Joe reached under the bar and pulled out a manilla envelope. "Then this is for you." He handed the envelope over to Daire.

"What's this?" she asked.

"Information on Richie Ryan. I figured I'd give you a head start." Joe said.

Daire reached out and took the envelope from Joe. She couldn't believe that this was actually happening. No more libraries. No more books. This was the best thing that ever happened to her. "Thanks. I'll look it over."

The door to the bar opened. In walked a young man, carrying a motorcycle helmet. He had curly, red hair and stunningly bright blue eyes. He was wearing a dark brown leather coat and a pair of loose fitting blue jeans.

"Act natural, Daire." Joe stated. "You're assignment just walked in. "

"Him?" Daire asked. "You've gotta be kidding me."

Joe shook his head.

"Joe!" the man shouted from across the room.

"Richie," Joe said. "What can I do for you?"

Richie rushed over to the bar so that he could talk to Joe. He took a seat on the other side of Maria and placed his helmet on the counter top. "You're not going to believe what just happened to me."

"What?" Joe asked.

Richie smiled. "I met the woman of my dreams! She's gorgeous, Joe. Gorgeous. I have a date with her tonight."

"Who is this woman of your dreams?" Joe inquired.

"Her name is Billie Maxwell. She's very wealthy, or so I was told."

"Billie Maxwell, huh? Her family is extremely wealthy Richie. How did you two meet?"

"That's the best part. Imagine this. Her limo is driving down the street. Suddenly a motorcycle, my motorcycle, rushes through an intersection and the driver can't stop in time. The limo hits the motorcycle, the rider is thrown from it." Richie smiled. "When I stood up and took off my helmet, she said that I was cute and then asked me out."

Joe laughed. "Well, I wish you two luck."

"Thanks, but I have to go get ready for my date. We're going to Pierces. I'll catch you later." Richie picked up his helmet and headed for the door. Once he had left, Daire let out a long sigh.

"That's Richie Ryan?" she asked.

"Yeah," Joe responded. "That's him."

"I think that I'm gonna like this assignment," Daire exclaimed.

Maria laughed. "I can't blame you. If you need any help, call me." She glanced down at her watch. It was six o'clock. "Damn. I have to go."

"Yeah, I should start watching Richie anyway." Daire said. "Do you want me to drop you anywhere?"

Maria shook her head. "No. My apartment is just around the corner. I'll walk."

Daire stood up. "Okay. I'll talk to you later. Nice meeting you, Joe."

Daire turned towards the door and began walking over to it. When she got out of the bar she deactivated her car alarm and got into her car. Once inside, she opened up the envelope that Joe had given her and pulled out its contents. Inside the envelope was a bio page on Richie and a few pictures. Daire studied each picture carefully. She was mesmerized by his baby blue eyes. After carefully studying everything inside the envelope, she tucked everything back into it and threw it on the passenger seat. Then she started the car and headed for her apartment.

Chapter 3:

Daire was huddled in the corner of the stairwell, seated on the cold cement floor, rocking back and forth. Tears were steaming down her face like rain. No matter how hard she tried, she just couldn't calm herself down enough to move.

"Oh my god!" she sobbed. "Oh, my god!"

She wasn't sure if the attacker had left or if she had gone back into the apartment for Richie's head. Either way, she didn't want to set foot back in that apartment. She slowly breathed in and out, but she just wasn't calming down any.

"I have to get out of here." she whispered.

She wiped her eyes, unsuccessfully drying them. Her whole body was quivering so standing was no easy task. She rested her hand on the pavement and pushed herself up into a standing position. Suddenly, her feet gave out from underneath her and she collapsed back down to the concrete. Her tears continued to stream down her face.

"Come on, Daire." she sobbed. "Think!" She pounded her hand on the cement stairwell. "Damn it. Think! I need to call the police. I need to call-"

She burst back into tears. "I can't call the police, damn it. Damn it! Damn it!" She pounded her hand again onto the hard cement. "Maria!" she cried. "I'll call Maria!" She searched around for her cellular phone. It wasn't anywhere to be found.

"Shit! It's in my car." she said. "That's it, I have to get out of here."

Once again, she was going to have to attempt to stand up. Daire took two deep breaths and exhaled slowly. She placed her hand on the pavement and slowly pushed herself up again. To help keep herself standing, she leaned against the wall until she felt her legs regain most of their strength. When she was sure that she could walk, she made her way over to the door that led out to the hall of the penthouse floor. Taking another deep breath, she slowly pulled the door open and stepped back into the hall. The floor was quiet. There were no apartment residence up checking out what all the noise was about, but Daire was sure that someone would come up sooner or later. She rushed over to the elevator and pushed the down button. The doors of the elevator slid open. "An elevator when I really need one?" she exclaimed. "That's a change." She rushed into the elevator and hit the button that would bring her back down to the lobby. The elevator doors slowly slid shut. The elevator jerked as it began its decent, causing Daire to jump. "Get a grip, Daire." she told herself. "Just calm down!" The elevator jerked to a stop and the doors slowly slid open. Daire rushed out of it and made a break for the door, praying that the murderer was not outside waiting for her to emerge from the building. She pushed open the doors and rushed outside into the crisp night air. Much to her relief, no one was out there. She breathed a sigh of relief before taking off toward her car down the street. Her tennis shoes were pounding against the pavement as she ran for her car. All she wanted to do was get to her car and call Maria. As she neared her parked car she slowed her pace. When she finally reached it, she grabbed her keys from her coat pocket and fumbled around looking for the one that would unlock her car. Finally she found it and placed it in the lock and turned the key. She pulled open the car door and reached over to the passenger seat. Her hand fumbled around for her purse which contained her phone. She found it and pulled it out of the car. Hurriedly, she pulled her purse open and reached inside. She grabbed her phone and heaved the purse back into the car. Daire quickly opened her phone and began dialing Maria's number. ********* Adam Pierson gently kissed Maria's neck. She reached her arm around his neck and brought him into a passionate kiss. He softly whispered something in French and continued kissing her body. Maria smiled. The satiny sheets felt soft against her back. When she agreed to come over to Methos' apartment, she wasn't planning on making love to him. She had hoped that perhaps it would happen, but she didn't think Methos had any interest in her. She was wrong. Methos was quite the romantic. When she arrived at his apartment, a home cooked candle light dinner was waiting for her. Over dinner he told her about Cleopatra, The Crusades, and about his life as one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. She listened to each tale that he told, imagining to herself what it might have been like to meet and participate in over five thousand years of history. The thought itself awed her. And now, he was on top of her, making love to her. She was in such ecstacy. Nothing was going to ruin this evening for her. Nothing. Suddenly, Methos stopped. "Do you hear something?" Maria listened, straining to hear any noise in the darkness. She heard a soft ringing noise coming from the floor. "It's just my phone," she whispered. "Ignore it." Methos slowly began kissing her again. Once again he stopped. "I can't," he said as he rolled off of Maria's body. "Sorry." Maria picked up the top sheet of the bed covers and quickly wrapped it around her body. She stood up and walked over to where the ringing was coming from. She bent down and picked up her royal blue blazer. She reached into the left pocket and pulled out her ringing cellular phone. She pushed the talk button and put it up to her ear. "Hello," she said in a hostile voice. The other end remained quiet for a second. "H-h-hello," a shaky reply came. "Who is this?" Maria asked. "It's Daire," came the response. "We need to talk." Maria sighed as she glanced over to Methos who had propped himself up on the bed. "Can't it wait until morning?" "No," Daire cried. "No it can't wait until morning." "Jesus," Maria remarked. "You sound terrified. But whatever the problem is, I'm sure it can wait." "What in the world could you be doing that is more important than helping me out?" Daire screamed. Maria glanced back to Methos who was patiently waiting for her to return to the bed. "Well," she replied. "I-" "Where the hell are you?" Daire shouted. Maria hesitated. "I'm over at Adam Pierson's." "What are you doing over there?" Maria thought for a moment. "I'm working on the Methos Chronicles." "You do that everyday!" Daire screamed. "What's so important that you can't help me out." "Well," Maria said. "It's sort of hands-on." Daire started to cry. "Please, Maria. I need your help. I saw something that I shouldn't have." "Shit, Daire." Maria stated. "This sounds serious. Where are you?" "I'm on the corner of Jackson Street and Ninth. Right by the alley." Daire said. "Please Maria. Please hurry." "I'm on my way. Just sit tight." Maria hung up the phone and started gathering her clothes up from the floor. Methos got up off the bed. "Who was that?" he inquired. Maria slipped into her underwear. "That was Daire." she told him. She says that she's in some sort of trouble. I really hate to cut this short, but she sounds terrified." "I understand," he said. "We'll continue this another night... soon!" Maria slipped into her royal blue dress and picked up the matching blazer. She quickly slipped her arms into it. Methos placed his hand gently on her shoulder. She spun around to face him. "I'm sorry about having to leave, but-" "I understand." Methos said. "Go help your friend. Just make sure you bring your beautiful self back to me sometime soon." Maria blushed. "I promise that we'll do this again soon." She gently kissed his soft lips. "I gotta go." She walked past him and headed for the apartment door. When she got there, she turned around briefly to blow a kiss in Methos' direction. Then she grabbed the handle, pulled the door opened and left to meet Daire. *********** Daire was sitting in her car trying desperately to calm down. She was glad that she was able to talk Maria into coming. It made her feel much better that she was going to get some help. After what seemed like ages, Maria's car pulled up behind hers. Daire opened up her car door and got out. Maria exited her car and walked over to Daire. She looked her over. "Are you trying to make some sort of fashion statement?" she asked looking down at Daire's feet. Daire glanced down at her tennis shoes that were peaking out from under her evening gown. "Not funny." "Sorry, just trying to make you feel better." she said. "Now, why did you make me come out here at one o'clock in the morning?" Daire quickly glanced around the deserted road, just to make sure no one was around. In the distance she heard the cry of police sirens. "I saw something that I shouldn't have," she whispered. "What?" Maria inquired. Again, Daire glanced around nervously. "I saw an immortal murder someone." "You what?" Maria asked. "I was down in the lobby and noticed that someone went up to the penthouse. Someone who didn't belong up there." She took a deep breath. "So, I got in the other elevator and headed up there. When the elevator doors opened I heard four loud gun shots and ran into the apartment. When I got there, Richie and his date were lying on the floor...dead." She burst into tears. "The immortal was about to kill Richie, and then I said something. She turned around and...I ran." Maria walked over to Daire and embraced her, hoping that it might calm her down. "It's okay, Daire." The sirens grew louder and louder. Five police cars turned the corner and stopped outside of the apartment building. Daire lightly pushed Maria away. She dried her eyes as she watched about ten policemen jump out of the squad cars and convene on the building. Suddenly she noticed someone covered in blood come out of the building. She squinted her eyes trying to make out who it was. "Shit!" she exclaimed. Maria turned her attention to the building. "What?" "Damn it, Maria!" she screamed. "That's Richie Ryan." Maria looked again. She saw a young man with curly red hair being told by the police to get down on the ground. "Shit! Why didn't you get him out of there? " Daire glared at Maria. "I thought he'd left already." "Guess again," she remarked. "You should've known." "Well excuse me!" Daire sharply replied. "I was a little busy hiding in the stairwell hoping that I wouldn't be killed myself. For all I knew Richie had already woken up and left the building." "Damn it, Daire." Maria said. "Obviously he didn't." "I have to help him." Daire said as she started walking towards the building. Maria reached out and grabbed her arm. "You can't interfere, Daire. You know that." "Damn it Maria. Let go of me." Daire warned. "Richie didn't kill anyone." Maria didn't listen. "And just what are you going to tell them? That you are part of a secret society that assigned you to watch Richie Ryan because you need to document his entire life just in case he lives forever? NO! You can't do that." "He didn't do it though!" Daire remarked. "I have proof." "What do you have for proof?" Maria asked. Daire walked over to her car and reached inside. She pulled out her camera. "I snapped a picture of the immortal who did it." "Sorry," Maria said. "You still can't interfere. It's the rules, you know that." Daire nodded. She glanced back and saw some police officers emerging from the apartment building. They walked over to Richie and shoved him into one of the squad cars. "Sorry," she said. "I have to this time. He's innocent." Maria looked at her friend. "You're serious about this, aren't you? " Daire nodded. "Fine," Maria said. "But I'm helping." "No," Daire said. "I don't want you to get into any trouble." She turned and watched three of the squad cars pull away. "Too late." Maria said. "Come on, let's get you home." "But, what about Richie?" Daire asked. "We'll deal with that first thing tomorrow morning. I promise." Maria responded. Daire reluctantly agreed. "Okay." "Okay." Maria said. "I'll follow you back to your place. You're pretty shaken up." Daire nodded. She threw the camera back into the car and climbed in. She started the car and waited for Maria to do the same. Together, they headed off into the night and away from the crime scene. As they drove away, a woman came out of the alley. She had shoulder length brown hair and was wearing a black trench coat. She looked towards the apartment and started to laugh.

Chapter 4: The bright morning sun beamed into Daire's room and rested upon her face. She rolled over, but it didn't help any. Slowly, she sat up and ran her fingers through her disheveled curly hair. She rubbed her eyes and glanced around her bedroom. Her evening gown was nonchalantly tossed onto the foot of her bed. She saw two pairs of shoes lying carelessly in the middle of the floor. Daire pushed the covers away and slowly got out of bed. Her bare feet padded against the cold, wooden floor as she made her way to the kitchen. She rounded the corner of her apartment and stepped onto the cold kitchen floor. She made her way over to the refrigerator and pulled open the door. Slowly, she reached inside and emerged with a carton of milk. As she opened the carton, she closed the door and turned around. Suddenly, she let out a loud, ear piercing scream. A woman suddenly jolted awake and sat up on the couch. She spun around to face Daire. "Jesus, Daire." she said. "Don't ever do that again." Daire just stared at her. "Maria? What the hell are you doing on my couch?" Maria got off the couch and rubbed her neck. She slowly made her way over to where Daire was standing. "First of all," she said. "You need a bigger couch. Secondly, you asked me to stay here last night, remember?" Daire nodded. "Sorry. I guess I just forgot." "Have you looked in a mirror this morning?" Maria asked, trying to hold back her laughter. "You look like hell!" Daire glared at her. "I feel like hell." She walked over to her toaster and looked at her reflection. Her mascara had dried in streams down her face. "Shit. I don't only feel like hell, I look like I live there too." Maria laughed. "Don't be so hard on yourself. If I went through what you went through last night, I'd probably look like a walking zombie as well." "Not funny, Maria." Daire said, raising her voice. "I went through hell last night. I don't need you cracking any jokes." "Sorry. I'm just trying to make you feel better." Maria responded. "Listen, why don't you get cleaned up and we'll try to get Richie out of prison, okay?" Daire nodded. "Okay. Do you need to go home and change?" Maria walked over to her bag. "Actually, no." she said. "I sort of have a change of clothes with me." She pulled out a pair of jeans and a black t-shirt. "Let's just say I was planning on spending the night away from my apartment." "We won't go there." Daire responded. "I'm going to get cleaned up. Help yourself to anything in the house." Daire handed the milk carton over to Maria. Then she turned around and headed toward her room. ********* Daire stepped out into the living room. She was wearing a pair of black jeans with a white button-up shirt and a black vest. Her sleeves were rolled up just enough that her Watcher tattoo was visible. Her hair wasn't pulled back for once. Instead, her curly, shoulder length locks hung down around her face. She looked like an entirely different person. "Hey," Maria said. "You're looking better already." She stood up. She too had changed into her clothes. Her hair was tied up in two braids that hung down over her shoulders. "Looking, maybe. Feeling, not really." Daire responded. "Cheer up." Maria said. "We're going to go bail an innocent man out of prison. I mean, never mind that we can get into deep shit with Sarah Richardson." "I'm not forcing you to come with me." Daire said. "You're the one who is insisted that you be a part of this." Maria sighed. "I know. It's just I'm not so sure we should interfere. It's against the rules." "I know that, but he's innocent." Daire remarked. "So, it's your decision. Are you coming or not?" Maria thought for a moment. "I'm coming." Daire pulled out her car keys from her jeans pocket. "I'll drive." she stated. "Let's go." Maria and Daire left the apartment and walked to Daire's red BMW. Daire deactivated the car alarm and the two of them climbed in. After inserting the key in the ignition, Daire started the car and the two of them drove towards the prison. "So," Maria began. "What's the plan?" "What do you mean?" Daire questioned. "You know. How do you plan to get Richie out of prison?" "I'm going to pay his bail. How hard is that?" Daire asked. Maria looked over at Daire. "Um, you're kidding, right. You can't just waltz in to a prison and bail out someone you don't even know. Especially when they're the prime suspect in a murder. It just doesn't work that way." "Oh," Daire said. "And you would be the expert on this sort of thing? " Maria smiled. "That's not what I'm saying. I'm just thinking that you need to think this through." Daire glanced over at her. "Jesus, Maria. What do you expect me to do?" "Well," Maria began. "I have thought up a plan, that is if you are willing to participate in it." Daire raised her eyebrows in curiosity. "I'm game. What do I have to do?" Maria looked over at Daire. "Alright, here's the plan." ********** Richie Ryan sat on the bench and leaned against the cold cement wall of the holding cell. He hadn't slept all night. When the police first hauled him in last night he had used his one phone call to contact MacLeod. Much to his dismay, MacLeod never picked up. Richie had hoped that maybe he heard the message that he left on the answering machine, but the longer he sat there, the more he feared that MacLeod wasn't coming. Richie stood up and walked over to the other side of the cell. There a young officer was sitting filling out some paperwork. "Hey!" Richie shouted. "Can't a guy get something to eat?" "Shut up," the officer remarked. "Listen," Richie said. "I didn't do anything. I didn't murder that girl." "Yeah, yeah." the officer replied. "That's what they all say." "Damn it! Why won't you people listen to me." The officer glanced up from his paperwork. "We have listened to you, but your story just doesn't make any sense." "Doesn't make any sense?" Richie shouted. "It's what happened." "Hey, ass whole!" the officer said. "Sit down and shut up." The door behind the officer opened. In walked another officer who strolled over and whispered something to the one sitting at the desk. He looked up at Richie and back down to the other cop. The seated cop pushed his chair away from the desk and stood up. "Looks like someone bailed you out, Ryan." he said as he reached down and unhooked the keys from his belt. "Well it's about time." Richie stated. The officer opened up the cell door. Richie stepped out and patted the man on the shoulder. "Can't say it's been fun," Richie said. "Yeah, yeah." the officer said. "Follow me." Richie and the officer walked to the desk where the man pulled out a manilla envelope that contained Richie's belongings. He handed it over to Richie who quickly snatched it away. Richie opened it up and dumped the contents out on the top of the desk. Some money, keys, and a watch came tumbling out of it. Richie picked up the cash and jammed it into his pockets. Then he picked up the watch and put it back on his left wrist. He reached for the keys and grasped them in his hand. The officer signaled for Richie to follow him out. Richie and the officer walked down a narrow corridor towards the front of the police station. The officer stopped in front of the door and signaled to Richie to go on through. Richie pushed on the door. "Geez, Mac." he said. "I didn't think-" He paused. "I don't think you're MacLeod." he said to the two beautiful women standing before him. "Hmm," Daire whispered. "Cute and perceptive." Maria laughed and elbowed Daire in the side. "Come on, Daire. You're supposed to be getting Richie out of here." she whispered. Daire walked over to Richie and grabbed his arm. "I'll explain later. Come on, let's get you home." "Uh, okay." Richie exclaimed. Daire, Maria and Richie headed toward the door of the police station and stepped outside. Richie grabbed Daire's arm to keep her from walking away. "Okay," Richie said. "What's going on?" Daire glanced over at Maria. "Tell him," Maria whispered. Daire held up her left hand and pushed her shirt sleeve down a little more. Richie's mouth dropped open when he saw the blue Watcher's tattoo on her wrist. She put her hand back down to her side. "I'm your Watcher, Richie." "My Watcher? Like Joe?" he asked. "Yes. Like Joe. Listen, we'll talk about this on the way to wherever you need to go." Daire replied. "It's safer that way." Richie nodded. The three of them walked over to Daire's red car. She deactivated the alarm and they climbed in. Daire started the car and they drove away from the police station. "Okay, let me get this straight." Richie said. "You are my Watcher. " "Yep." Daire replied. "Alright." Richie responded. "But aren't you guys supposed to watch and not interfere." "Well, that's generally what we do." Daire said. "Although, sometimes we can't help but interfere." "Yeah, I know. Joe interferes all the time." Richie stated. Maria spun around. "Really?" "Oh, yeah. He and Mac are always talking. Speaking of Mac, the dojo is right around the corner." Daire turned the corner and parked the car on the street. Richie opened the door and stepped out of the car. "Uh, aren't you two coming up?" he asked. Maria looked over to Daire. "Please, I've always wanted to meet the famous Duncan MacLeod." "Okay. We're coming." Daire told Richie. Maria and Daire exited the car and walked up to the front door. Richie unlocked it and opened up the door. The three of them stepped inside. They rounded a corner and entered the dojo. There was swords hanging on the walls and a few exercise machines scattered around the floor. Richie led the girls to the elevator and slid the gate up. They stepped inside and he lowered the gate back down. He stuck a key in the elevator and it began to climb to the next floor. When they neared the floor, Richie began nervously glancing around. The elevator came to a stop. He reached down and slid the gate back up. He stepped into the room. Suddenly a sword came swinging at him. He quickly ducked out of harms way. "Who are you?" a woman asked. "Richie Ryan." he replied. "Who the hell are you?" "Sunia." the woman replied. MacLeod stepped out of the kitchen. "It's okay, Sunia. He's a friend." Richie looked at the woman. She was gorgeous. She had a beautiful olive complexion and stunningly beautiful green eyes. Her long auburn hair reminded him of Billie's hair, except it wasn't curly. "It's nice to meet you." he said. MacLeod glanced into the elevator. "Who are your friends?" "Oh, sorry." Richie replied. "Mac, meet Daire and Maria." Daire and Maria slowly stepped out of the elevator. "Hi," they said in unison. "Oh, what you just saw was, umm, it was-" "Natural." Maria said. "What?" Duncan asked. "It's okay. We're friends of Joe." Maria reassured him. "Are you?" Duncan said. Maria and Daire raised their left hands and showed Duncan their Watcher tattoos. "See," Maria said. "We're very close friends of Joe." "What's going on, Richie?" Duncan asked. "What are they doing here? " "Damn it Mac," he said. "Where the hell were you all night." Duncan looked at him in confusion. "I was here, why?" "Because, I was arrested for murder and needed you to come and bail me out. What the hell were you doing?" "I was just busy with Sunia, that's all." Duncan said. "Sorry, Rich. Now, about this murder." "That's where I come in." Daire exclaimed. "You see, I'm Richie's Watcher so I was kind of there when it happened. He didn't do it. I'm not quite sure who did, but it wasn't Richie." "Who was murdered?" Duncan asked. "Billie Maxwell." Richie said. "She was my girlfriend." "Damn it, Richie." Duncan said. "Did you see who it was." "Umm," Daire said. "Actually, I took a picture of her." Maria looked at Duncan. "We'll discuss the details later. Right now, Daire and I really need to talk to Joe." Duncan nodded. "Keep me posted." Maria and Daire agreed. They turned around and headed toward the elevator. They lowered the gate and headed down to the first floor. When they reached it, they walked through the dojo and out the door to the car. They quickly got in and sped away. Out in the distance, a man peaked around the corner. He pulled out his cellular phone and dialed a number. It rang a few times. Finally, someone picked up. "Hello, Sarah. I've got something important to tell you."

Return to Innocence By Karen J. Brady Chapter 5: "I can't believe you two interfered with the Game!" Joe exclaimed. "Uh, Joe." Maria said. "According to Richie you do that all the time. " "That's different." Joe explained. "Circumstances were different. Jesus, Maria, you should know better." "I do," Maria shouted. "But Daire is right about Richie. He isn't the murderer." "Sarah Richardson could kick you out of the Watchers for good." Joe continued. "Joe, he didn't murder anyone. He's innocent." Maria exclaimed. "Not to mention that this is Daire's first assignment. How could this happen?" he said. "Are you listening to me?" Maria screamed. "Now you're bringing me into this. What were you two think-" "Shut up, Joe!" Maria yelled. "Just shut up and listen to what we have to say!" Joe stopped ranting. He took a deep breath. "Sorry. It's just that I'd hate to see you two lose your jobs over this." "We'll worry about that later." Maria answered. "Like I said, Richie isn't the murderer. Someone else is." Joe nodded. "Okay. I must say that Richie isn't the murdering type. However, he is the only one who can be placed at the scene." "What if he's not." Maria said. "I don't follow," Joe replied. Daire stood up and walked over to where Joe and Maria were standing. "That's right. I completely forgot." "Forgot what?" Joe asked. "My camera!" Daire exclaimed. "I took a picture of the murderer!" "Where's the film?" Joe asked. "In my car, why?" "Did you develop it?" Joe inquired. "No," Daire said, shaking her head. "I haven't gotten a chance to." "Go get it." Joe said. Daire turned and rushed toward the door of the bar. She pushed it open and ran towards her car. When she was almost there, she deactivated her car alarm and unlocked the door. Quickly, she pulled open the door and ducked inside. She frantically searched for her camera. She found it on the floor of the passengers side. She rapidly rewound the film, popped open the back of the camera, and pulled out the film. Grasping it tightly in her hand, Daire climbed out of the car, slammed the door shut and bolted back into the bar. "Here it is." she said as she closed the door behind her. She walked over to Joe and held it up. "I want you to develop that as soon as possible, do you hear me." Joe said. Daire nodded. Suddenly the door to the bar swung open. In walked a man and a woman, both wearing trenchcoats. They briskly walked towards the three Watchers standing in the middle of the bar. "I'll take that film." the woman said, reaching her hand out for it. "Sarah?" Maria said. "What the hell do you think you're doing?" Sarah Richardson's greenish-blue eyes stared deep into Maria's. "I'm stopping you three from interfering any further." she replied. "Now, give me the film. " "Interfering?" Maria said. "I don't know what you're talking about. " "You know perfectly well what I'm talking about, so you can cut the crap!" she yelled. "Michael here spotted you two with Richie Ryan and Duncan MacLeod today." "So now you have people spying on the Watcher's?" Maria remarked. "No," Daire said. "Michael was there because Sunia was there. He's her Watcher, remember?" "Damn it, Maria." Sarah said. "I thought you were smarter. I thought you knew better than to get involved with immortals. You're not supposed to interfere. Now, hand over the film." "No." Maria insisted. "Frankly, you really don't have a choice." Sarah shouted. "Give me the damn film!" Daire walked towards Michael and Sarah. She opened her hand and held out the film. "Here," she said. "Take it!" "Daire, don't!" Maria shouted. Sarah reached out and snatched the film away from Daire before she could change her mind. She quickly shoved it into her coat pocket. "Now, I don't want to hear any more reports about you two taking after Joe. Do I make myself clear?" Daire and Maria nodded. Sarah turned and headed towards the door. Daire looked up at Michael. A smile began to cross his face. Daire walked over to him and slapped him across the face. "You son of a bitch." she exclaimed. "I thought we were friends." Michael reached up a hand and rubbed his cheek where she had slapped him. "We were never friends, Daire." he said. "You just thought we were." He then turned around and walked towards the door. "Damn!" Daire shouted. "I should've know that he was near MacLeod's the minute I saw Sunia." "Nevermind that," Maria said. "They now have the film so we can't identify the killer." "Now what?" Daire asked. Joe and Maria shrugged. "I don't know," Joe said. "There really isn't that much more we can do, unless..." "What?" Daire inquired. "Unless you can identify the immortal from a picture on the Watcher database." Joe responded. "I could try." Daire said. "Let's do it." Joe, Maria and Daire walked over to a door leading to the back room of the bar. Joe grabbed the door handle and pushed it open. He slowly limped inside. Daire and Maria followed. He flipped on the light and walked over to a computer. Slowly, he took a seat in front of it and switched it on. The Watcher database image appeared. He clicked on it and entered his password. The screen changed to an information page. Joe looked up at Daire. "Okay," he said. "Describe the murderer." Daire thought for a moment. "Well, she was female, about five foot six, dark brown, shoulder length hair, brown eyes, freckles..." "Anything else?" Joe asked. "I don't know." Daire said. "It was late and it was dark." "Just think." Maria encouraged. Daire thought about that night. The only time she really got a good look at her was when she entered the apartment building. "Wait!" Daire exclaimed. "There is something else." "What?" Joe asked. "She's left handed." Daire blurted out. Joe typed in all the information Daire rambled off. As soon as he got all the data in, he hit the search button. The computer began to search the memory for a match to the description. "Do you think that will be enough information?" Maria asked. "I don't know." Joe responded. The computer continued searching. Finally, it stopped. A picture of a woman fitting Daire's description popped up on the screen. Joe turned toward Daire. "Is that the murderer?" he asked. Daire leaned over to get a better look. She gazed at the picture. She nodded. "Yeah, that's her." Joe clicked on the picture. Another page popped up. "Virginia Long Knife," Joe read. "I'll get someone to locate her and keep me informed." "What about her Watcher?" Maria asked. Joe turned towards her. "He worked with Horton. He's been kicked out of the organization." "Damn." Daire exclaimed. "How are you going to do this without Sarah finding out?" Joe smiled. "Trust me. I do this all the time." "What about MacLeod?" Maria asked. "I told him that I'd keep him informed." "I'll call him and let him know what's going on." Joe said. "As for you Daire, don't go far. Virginia Long Knife knows what you look like so she may be looking for you." Joe reached into his pocket, pulled out his cellular phone, and dialed MacLeod's number. "MacLeod?" Joe said. "It's Dawson. I think you and Richie should come over here." ********* "Virginia Long Knife?" Duncan asked. "Never heard of her." "Yeah," Joe said. "Well, just keep your eyes peeled. She looks like this." He handed him a picture of Virginia. "Doesn't look familiar either." Duncan said. "Why would she go after Richie?" Joe shrugged. "I don't know. How about you Daire?" Daire shook her head. "I just got this assignment yesterday. I don't know why this maniac would be going after him, or if she was even after him." "What do you mean?" Richie asked. "Okay," Daire began. "Maybe Billie Maxwell and Virginia were arguing. Virginia gets mad and decides that she's going to kill Billie. Unfortunately, Richie was there and could sense her coming." "I guess it's possible." Duncan responded. Joe's cellular phone rang. "Just a second," he said. He picked up the phone and pushed the talk button. "Dawson." "Joe. It's Jim. I've spotted Virginia Long Knife." "Where?" Joe asked. "She's headed to your bar." "What? You've gotta be kidding?" Joe exclaimed. "I wish I were." Jim said. "She'll be there soon." "Thanks, Jim." he said. He shut off his phone. "Bad news." "What?" Richie asked. Joe paused. "It's been reported that Virginia is on her way over here." "What?" Daire asked. "Why the hell would she be coming here?" "Maybe she likes the blues." Maria responded. Daire glared at her. "Damn it, Maria. This isn't funny. I could be in serious trouble." "I know. Sorry." Maria responded. "Listen," Duncan said. "I'm not going to let anyone hurt you." Daire nodded. "I know." "Now what?" Maria asked. "Well," Joe replied. "We prepare for her arrival."

Return to Innocence By Karen J. Brady Chapter 6: The blues band was playing loudly on the stage. The customers were their normal, happy selves. Daire stood behind the counter and was serving customers drinks. Joe and Duncan had left, hoping that they would run into Virginia before she got to the bar. Maria had left because she had to go meet Adam Pierson. Richie Ryan was stationed in the back room, just in case Virginia made it to the bar. The door to the bar swung open. Daire looked up, hoping that it would be Duncan and Joe. To her dismay it was an elderly couple. "Damn it." she whispered. "I wish they'd get back here." Even with Richie out back, Daire didn't like being the bait. After all, he was a new immortal. It's not like he's had much experience with a sword. All she wanted to do was get Duncan back into the bar. She knew that he could easily take on Virginia and win. However, he and Joe had left and still were not back. She grabbed a pitcher of beer and walked out from behind the bar. She headed towards the nearest table and refilled the mugs of the customers sitting there. As she went from table to table, she looked over each customer. Still no sign of Virginia. Daire breathed a long sigh of relief. She walked back over to the bar and went back to serving the customers there. "Maybe if I'm lucky she won't show up." she thought to herself. A group of people walked into the bar and scattered to different tables. Daire reached below the bar and picked up a pad of paper. Then she headed back out onto the floor. She took the orders of most of the people that had just walked in. The rest of them had each taken a different table. The band began a new song as Daire walked over to the table in the corner. "Excuse me," she said. "Could I get you something to drink?" The customer looked up at her. "Sure," the woman replied. "I'd like a beer." Daire stared at her for a moment. The customer looked exactly like Virginia Long Knife. In fact, Daire knew that she must be her. "C-coming right up." Daire stammered. She hurried back to the bar. Her whole body was trembling with fear. She had to let Richie know that Virginia Long Knife was here. Slowly, she made her way towards the back door. She reached down and pushed it open. "Richie?" she whispered. "Richie?" No response. Daire stepped into the back room. "Hello? Richie?" Still nothing. "Damn it Richie, where the hell are you?" she screamed. There was still no answer. She suddenly got a sinking feeling. Thoughts started rushing through her mind. Thoughts like, what if she got to Richie already. Or, what if Richie wimped out. A cold shiver ran down her spine as she stood there in the dark. She figured that he had to be somewhere nearby. After all, Duncan did order him not to wander off. She just hoped that he listened. Daire spun around to head back into the bar and stopped dead in her tracks. "Hello," a woman said, closing the door behind her. Daire backed up a few steps. "V-V-V-Virginia Long Knife?" "Ahh," she said. "Very perceptive." "What do you want?" Daire asked. "Well, the answer to that question is very easy." Virginia said. "I want you dead." Daire took a deep breath. "Y-y-you don't even know me." "Think again." Virginia responded. "You were at the apartment where I killed that girl. I can't have you running to the police on me." Daire swallowed hard. "I can't go to the police." she responded. "Bullshit!" Virginia screamed. "Don't give me that." "Really," Daire explained. "I can't turn you in to the police. I'd be interfering." Virginia laughed. "You're worried about interfering? You interfered back at the apartment when I was about to kill the boy." Daire backed up a few more steps. "I know, and I'm really sorry. That just sort of happened." Virginia stepped towards her. "It just sort of happened? Right about now I bet you wish it never happened. Right?" Daire continued to back away from Virginia. She didn't answer. "Answer me, damn it!" Virginia screamed. "R-right." Daire responded. "I promise you though, I won't turn you in." Virginia laughed again. "You poor mortal. I can't believe you." "You can. Believe me you can. All my friends say that I'm the most reliable person they know. You can trust me." "Shut up!" Virginia screamed. "You're a liar, just like all mortals. " Daire backed up and ran into something hard. She briefly turned around to see what it was. It was a door leading out of the bar. Frantically she searched for the door knob so that she could make her escape. She turned back towards Virginia. "I'm not lying, I swear." Daire shouted. "Really?" Virginia asked. "It's too bad I have to kill you then." She reached inside her trenchcoat and pulled something out. Daire strained to see what it was, but it was too dark. She continued fumbling around for the door knob. Finally, she found it. She twisted it and the door flew open. Daire tumbled out of the door and onto the hard asphalt of the back alley. She landed hard on her right arm. "Ow!" she screamed as she landed. Virginia stepped out of the back room and into the alley. Daire looked up. In Virginia's grasp she saw a shiny metallic item reflect in the dim light of the alley. It was a sword. Virginia was going to kill her with her sword. Daire struggled to get up, but her arm hurt to much. "Damn," she thought. "The last thing I need is a broken arm." Virginia stepped closer to her. Daire froze in fear and watched as Virginia raised the sword high above her head. "Richie! Help me!" Daire screamed. Virginia just laughed. "No one is going to help you." Daire stared in horror as the sword began to be lowered. She had to think fast. Instinctively, Daire rolled out of the way in the nick of time. The sword crashed against the pavement of the alley, causing a few sparks to rise. She quickly forced herself up off the ground. Virginia turned to face her. "You got lucky. I won't miss this time." Daire quickly spun around and began to run deeper into the alley. As she ran, she reached into the apron she was wearing and grabbed hold of her gun. She was running as fast as she could, but her five foot four body just couldn't outrun Virginia. She spun around to face her pursuer. "Are you prepared to die?" Virginia asked. Daire raised her gun and pointed it at Virginia. She shook her head. "Not today." she replied. Virginia tilted her head back and burst out in evil laughter. "You stupid mortal. You can't kill me with a gun." "Maybe not," Daire replied. "But I sure has hell can kill you just long enough to get away from here." "Not if I can help it!" Virginia said. "Stay back!" Daire shouted. "I'm warning you!" "You can't scare me." Virginia said. "Even if you get away, I'll find you and I will kill you!" Daire's hand began to shake. She tried hard to get it to stop, but it didn't work. "You're terrified of me, aren't you?" Virginia said when she saw Daire's hand shaking. "You know I'll kill you." "No!" Daire shouted. "I don't know that. What I do know is that if you come any closer, I'll shoot you, grab your sword and kill you myself!" "Really?" Virginia said. Daire nodded. "Really!" "Well," Virginia said. "I think you're bluffing." She stepped toward Daire. Daire pulled the trigger of her gun. A loud bang followed. She watched as Virginia continued advancing on her. "You missed!" she said. Suddenly, Virginia lunged towards Daire. Her sword plunged deep into Daire's stomach. Daire shrieked in pain. She could feel the cold steel running through her body. Virginia twisted the sword inside her body. Daire's body buckled in pain and slowly fell to the ground. "Hey!" a voice from behind shouted. Virginia spun around. Behind her was a young man. His baby blue eyes stared her deep brown ones. He raised his sword as a challenge. "I believe your fight is with me." he said. "R-R-Richie!" Daire stuttered. "I knew you'd come." Virginia lifted her sword. "Ah, it's the famous Richie Ryan. Too bad you didn't get here sooner." "Yeah, well I'm here now." Richie responded. Virginia and Richie began circling each other. Suddenly, Virginia swung her sword at Richie. Richie jumped out of harms way. He took a swing at her. She blocked it with her sword. Steel against steel, their swords clanged together. Virginia swung around and struck Richie in his left arm. Richie grabbed his arm and backed away from her so that he was out of her reach. "You bitch!" he shouted. Virginia laughed. "You're no match for me. You're weak!" Richie looked up. His blue eyes were full of anger and rage. He raised his sword and ran toward Virginia. She reached out her sword and sliced into Richie's stomach. He once again backed away from her. He grabbed his stomach. Blood rushed out of the wound and onto Richie's arm. He doubled over in pain. "Hmm," Virginia said. "Looks like I've defeated you." Richie stumbled backwards. The pain in his arm and stomach was too intense for him. He attempted to stand up straight, but it did no good. It was too painful. Virginia stepped closer. "Good-bye, Richie Ryan!" she said, raising her sword high above her head. Then he saw it. He saw an opening. He quickly raised his sword and sliced Virginia's stomach. She cried out in pain and slowly backed away. Richie walked over to her. The wound in his arm was beginning to heal. He could feel his strength begin to return. Virginia swung her sword at his head. Quickly, Richie ducked out of the way. He retaliated and struck Virginia in the leg. She collapsed to the ground. Richie walked over to her and placed his sword against her neck. "I'm not going anywhere," he exclaimed. "I can't say the same for you, however." Richie raised his sword high above his head. Virginia looked at him, her eyes pleading with him to let her live. Richie didn't listen. He suddenly brought his sword crashing down on her neck. Virginia's body limply crashed to the ground. Richie backed away from the body. The wind started to pick up. Virginia's headless body began to glow. Suddenly, strong bolts of energy flooded into Richie's body. It was like being struck by lightning a hundred times. Richie's body jolted with every transfer of energy from hers. He could actually feel her knowledge and power fill his body. Then, it stopped. Richie crashed to the ground, weak from the Quickening he just received. Then he remembered Daire. Slowly, he stood up and stumbled towards Daire. She was lying on the ground, watching the whole performance. He kneeled down next to her. "Thank you." she whispered. "Sorry," he said. "I had to go to the bathroom. I thought you'd be okay for a few minutes. I thought-" Richie glanced at her trembling body. She was shaking really hard from her loss of blood. He leaned over and propped her head up on his knees. He stroked her curly, brown hair. Suddenly, Daire's body went limp. Richie frantically tried to find a pulse. He couldn't. "No," he whispered. "No, you can't die, Daire." She didn't move. "Daire, please. Please, don't die." Tears began streaming down his face. "Daire?" He held her limp body in his arms. "Oh, god!" he sobbed. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry." He sat there and cradled her unmoving body. "If only I'd stayed put. If only..." his voice drifted off as sobs emerged from his body. Then suddenly, Daire woke up...... The End......(or is