#and he didn't even want to trust Murtagh

[dia-viller]

Eragon is such a hater

[alagaesia-headcanons]

I've Had A Thought. I was thinking about the scene where Eragon is reminiscing over Brom's message to him as his father, and how Eragon is confounded and troubled that he in no way mentioned Murtagh. I found it a little sad that, for whatever reason, Brom decided Murtagh didn't bear mentioning. Then it crossed my mind to consider the possibility that Brom didn't know about Murtagh at all.

As it turns out, Eragon actually does think about it in that scene- he says, "He must have known about Murtagh. He couldn't not have." And admittedly I don't think this is the most likely scenario or that it's now my personal interpretation of canon, but the idea really has captivated me. Because it actually does fit within the facts! (the new book notwithstanding)

Brom was a gardener at Morzan's estate for three years, and while it's probably more likely that he learned about Murtagh in that time, I think it's certainly feasible for him to never know. Morzan was very determined to keep him hidden and took a lot of precautions to ensure just that. Oromis said Morzan forced all his servants to swear fealty and Brom found a flaw in his wards to infiltrate, and possibly he was able to do so because a job as a gardener didn't require such strict oaths because it wasn't in proximity to Murtagh.

Again, it may not be the most likely, but I can absolutely believe Selena might not have told him either. She also would have been aware of the serious danger Murtagh was in and would've wanted him to stay hidden. Even after Brom told her who he was and she started working with the Varden, she might have kept it secret. For one, Brom's hatred of Morzan is described as extreme and all consuming, and that it never waned with time. Even if she came to believe that Brom wouldn't harm Murtagh, she might not have trusted he could look at him kindly. And of course, telling him about her child with Morzan also risked damaging their relationship considering that they were lovers. Then there's the possibility that Selena did build all this necessary trust to tell Brom about Murtagh if he wasn't aware of him already, but it was too late for her to discuss it with him before she died. So I think it is conceivable that Brom actually never knew about Murtagh's existence.

Where this concept really shines is in an AU where Brom survives after Murtagh saves them from the Ra'zac. I've always liked these, and I sometimes toy with my own, but there's so many ways Brom could react and I've never been able to settle on one well enough to get invested in it. But I find this SUCH a fascinating take on it (especially if you wave off the detail that Murtagh's voice sounds ~exactly like~ Morzan's, which I tend to do). Brom recovers and meets their rescuer, and he has no idea he's looking at Morzan and Selena's son. Murtagh seems terribly familiar, but Brom has been relentlessly haunted by his past for so long now that he doesn't put much stock in the perceived similarities. Meanwhile, Murtagh realizes that Brom truly does not know that he's the son of the man he murdered, a precarious but welcome relief. Because he doesn't know- up until Murtagh's confession in the valley.

Brom is stunned by disbelief. It can't be true, Morzan had no children, because surely he would know, surely-! But another thought dawns on him, drowning out the memories of Morzan, because who could have been the mother of his child other than his wife: Selena? And Murtagh is looking at him with fear, fear that he'll turn on him because he shares the blood of the man Brom hated most. It's heart wrenching, because even as part of his mind tells him that maybe he should scorn him, Brom is looking at this man who single handedly saved him from the brink of death and saved Eragon and Saphira from far worse at the hands of Galbatorix, and who has given them extraordinary devotion ever since.

In his core, he accepts the truth of Murtagh's claim as he explains his past and recounts the story of his parents exactly how Brom knows it to be. The paradigm shift sends him reeling. Murtagh believes Brom is affected only because of his past with Morzan; he has no way of knowing what he felt for Selena. He still glances at him nervously, especially as he admits that he briefly intended to serve Galbatorix, yet then there's also a spark of trust and gratitude- maybe even hope- in his eyes when Brom doesn't rescind the way he vouched for him when they were stopped inside the gates. How could he? Murtagh has accomplished one thing neither Morzan nor Selena ever did: escape.

Despite everything, his aching heart feels something fiercely like pride. He would not dare ruin that for him.

Then to further prove the truth, like the world is laughing at his years of ignorance, Ajihad recognizes him, because after Murtagh was brought to Uru'baen, the Varden's spies informed him of Morzan's son. But of course, that was after Brom cut himself off and started living in Carvahall, so he never learned of that discovery. "Morzan's son" is said over and over, but in Brom's mind, that idea is far eclipsed by Selena's son. He's hurt and ashamed to realize he never knew something so significant about the woman he loved. And he feels guilty that Murtagh struggled for so long in Uru'baen because no one was there to save him when he was left helplessly alone. Brom must have been so close to him when he arrived right after Selena's death, but he just didn't know.

Brom is utterly at a loss. How can he process Murtagh- the child of Selena and Morzan, Eragon's half brother, and in a certain sense, his own stepson? What can he do now? He was already so terrified of telling Eragon the truth of being his father, and now he has another staggering revelation to inflict on Eragon and Murtagh both. The prospect feels terrifyingly impossible, but keeping his secrets has grown even more painful. Watching how easily and how well Eragon and Murtagh get along is now bitterly ironic. Even without knowing it, Murtagh is a great older brother, waiting vigilantly near his side after the battle. The injury Durza inflicted scared Brom in a way he can't put into words; he simply could not bear to lose Eragon. How could he risk that happening without telling Eragon how much he loves him and values him as his son? But telling him truth could be the quickest way to lose him. And now, with Murtagh, he has more to lose than he ever realized.

-And because Murtagh deserves it, I like all these changes resulting in the Twins never getting the chance to kidnap him, and so Brom has to figure out how to make the three of them into a family <3

[hiswhiteknight]

Unbelievably Outlandish - Part 12

Summary: Before starting down a new crossroads, the Reader goes onto an adventure of literary traveling. Suddenly tossed into an unbelievable story that has swept the world, The Outlander Series itself. How will a twenty first century woman survive?

Note: It has been a super long time since I've posted, like a year or more. I'm going to try to post weekly, but it depends on my schedule. As for a tag list, I'll be starting a new one – please send me a message to be added to the tag list. I don't always get to look through comments, so please message me.

Note Note: I own no characters, except reader, clearly this is based off the lovely book series Outlander by Diana Gabaldon and tv show. This follows more the tv show, but it’s far from accurate. I’m going to try to get better with using less proper English, but who knows maybe I’ll get into Scottish slang.

Pairing: Jamie Fraser x Female Reader

Words: 2700 (SO LONG)

Warning: Angst, playfulness, cursing, slow start

It turned out, in Angus's mind, the dog turned out to be a good distraction for you. It kept you from running around because you found yourself always training the dog. She was an angelic thing, who always got into some kind of trouble along the way. Your whole life you've been much of a rule follower, but as of recently you were finding you had a lot in common with the dog.

With this being said, you have yet to find a name you'd like for her. Often you found yourself filling the boredom by naming old fictional characters you loved when you remember the character Gilbert Blythe from Anne of Green Gables. Outside from being incredibly charming, he was intelligent, kind, and had patience and devotion for the ones he loved. You imagined you had a lot in common with Anne Shirley or you hope you did. And with that thought, you named the dog Blythe.

Jamie enjoyed watching you work with the mischievous creature. He could tell this was the first time you were filled with joy since you arrived in Scotland, "Why don't you go over and talk to the girl," Murtagh said from next to him.

He shook out of his daze, acting like he wasn't doing anything weird, "I like my bullocks, thank you."

Murtagh shook his head, "She wouldn't have that mutt if it wasn't for you, you know."

The men continue to work around and pack things away, "You and I both know she is a stubborn woman, if she wanted that dog enough she would have got it without myself or Ned mentioning a word."

"Coward," Murtagh whispered to Jamie.

"Damn right," he chuckled back.

You were working on the pups reactivity and word commands. While growing up you didn't get to have a pet, but your mother told you about when she raised dogs as a child. Your family moved around a lot, so having a pet wasn't in the cards. "Don't get too comfortable girl, we're going to be off soon," Angus barked at you from afar.

You turned around losing the smile on your face. With the time being away from the castle, you still hadn't earned much trust and you most definitely didn't give the men much energy. Outside of the pup, you were like a empty soul and it was coming to be more evident with every passing day. The dog plopped herself next to you watching Angus with her tongue out. Even Blythe was better respected and well liked by the men, even Angus though he'd deny it if anyone commented. Their acceptance of the dog made you more tolerant to their attitude and patriarchal manner. "Yes master," you bow.

"It's nice you are starting to learn your manners," he smirked back while making gestures towards the men.

With a deep inhale and low tolerance of attitude today you started to trudge towards your horse, "It was sarcasm, idiot," you grumbled.

He appeared to have the same tolerance of my attitude, "Watch your tongue girl or you'll get it cut off," Angus advanced forward while gripping his dagger.

Jamie and Murtagh were about to make a move when another man's voice appeared, "Everything alright miss," a British voice caught your attention.

Angus directed an aggressive response to the man. You turned to look at the man and in your daze started to register things about this man. He had a proper accent, boots, and his hair read a gentleman. He was clearly a British soldier and he could mean serious trouble. You turned to look at Jamie for a split second before charming a smile, "Excuse me sir," you asked, ignoring the comments from the other man to rile this man. This was not the time and place.

You could tell the tension with Dougal increased. He didn't trust what you would say, "I was asking if you were alright," he stepped forward again, ignoring the men behind you.

"Oh, I'm sorry you had to hear all that, sir. You shouldn't have had to hear a lady speak out of tune like that. It was very unbecoming of me," you looked embarrassed. Let's hope your acting skills are up to par. You ignored Murtagh mutter unbecoming to make fun of you, "It's just Angus here is a very, very, very," you paused to look at him, "Very distant cousin." You turn back to smile at the officer, "I sometimes gets so overwhelmed by his voice and tone I just lash out. I apologize," you put you hand on your heart. The dog looked up at you oddly, not recognizing your behaviors.

He smiled at you, not acknowledging the grumbling Scots behind you, "Not necessary, my lady I understand quite well actually." He bent down to scratch the puppy sitting in front of you, "I'm sorry your accent."

You scratch the back of you neck, "Right, I must sound so improper. I'm Y/N O'Mulligian. I came to visit some family here from the colonies at my brother's request. He said I could use some real life hard work. He likes to call me a debutante," you sent him a teasing smile.

Responding well to your story, he rises and smiles at you. A relief was lifted off your shoulders, you were almost past this moment when Dougal interrupted, "Enough," he shouted, "She is the guest of the clan MacKenzie and her business is none of yours." You clearly spoke too soon because the officers defenses shot back up.

"So off you go," Angus finished.

You had to stop yourself from rolling your eyes, "Are you sure you are alright, miss," he looked unshaking at you. He clearly felt so much privilege he did not care remotely about the strapping Scottish men standing around him. You wanted to smack yourself in the forehead how stupid these men had to be to not recognize the importance of this one man.

Dougal looked as if he was going to fight the man. You put your arm on his bicep to stop him, "Of course, good sir," you smile, "It's nice to know chivalry is not dead. I have more hard work to learn as you can see, it was very nice meeting you."

"Pleasure is all mine," he smiled back before frowning around the man watching this moment. He backed away into the blacksmith area to continue his work.

A minute passed by and you felt a firm grip on your arm drag you towards your horse, "It's best you didn't speak," Dougal scolded in your ear.

Anger surged through your body and it took every fiber of your being to say nothing. But as you were shoved onto your horse, you looked in the direction of the soldier and back at Jamie. You knew if you yelled it'd bring attention to Jamie, a fugitive to the English Army.

You continue to seethe on the ride. Blythe sat up, doing her best to see over the horses head to look ahead. "What's the dog's name," Jamie trotted next to you.

"Blythe," you muttered directly.

"What a cute English name," he emphasized on one word of his sentence.

You pulled back on your horse and halted, "Excuse me?"

He chose to stop with you, trying to not say directly what he'd like to say. It's been odd between you and Jamie. You weren't sure if you were pushing him away out of anger or fear, but none the less at this moment it appeared to be anger, "Nothing, it's a cute name."

A sarcastic laugh left your mouth, "No, no, you had a tone," the man halt to watch another scene unfold, "You clearly have something you want to add, some hidden message you feel you want to hide. Say it."

"Nothing, you seem to just like the English a bit more than an Irish Woman from the colonies I thought would," he said like his words meant nothing. It didn't matter the fact that maybe he felt jealous or he had a right to comment on any intention or likes you have. That comment engulfed your whole body into volcano, hell fire fiery.

Heat was written all over your face and Murtagh didn't have enough time cool down your fire with rationality, "The boy is just saying, you were awfully chummy with the Brit," Angus chimed in, "like a girl in heat."

And there goes Mt. St. Helen, "Un-Fucking believable, do you know how fucking dumb you are, like every single on of you are just egg head fucking dumb," you scream enough to make the echo quake the woods around you.

"Lass," Ned sent a warning your way.

Tears started to brim your eyes and Jamie knew he'd set you up to fail again. You point to Ned, clearly a man of reason, "That man back there," you continued to yell, "Was an English Officer out patrolling." You looked to Jamie and everything deflated in you. Everything from the past and the reality of your new world just collapsed in your soul, "I was trying to save you."

A sigh leaves your lips and you talk lightly while using your hands to emphasize your point, "Men are idiots and will always fall for charm, so I used mine to protect you all," you continued to go on, "Call me a hussy, I don't care. And that plan to charm the officer actually worked until you opened your trap, my lord," you bowed your head at Dougal. Something than broke in you, in that moment, you were exhausted at being angry. You had no more fight in you. You gave Jamie another look, "I was scared. I was trying to save you," you whisper.

Taking a deep breath, you dismounted from you horse, "Now where are you going," Angus shouted at you.

The anger stirred up again, spinning around to look at him, "To relieve myself, thank you," you speak loudly while stomping into the woods.

You knew what Dougal did to Jamie in the pubs and you weren't sure why. It wasn't much of your business, but you could see it chipping into Jamie. You were stuck again in your thoughts, give into this new world and let these people in or continue to bury who you knew you were inside a dark cave and never leave.

The ride to the next village was quiet, especially after finding Scottish men hung out on display. You wanted to vomit at the lack of humanity in the cruel act. If this was the normal the British did to Scots, I'm not all shocked of their lack of kindness and trust towards me. I'm sure I wasn't helping the matter either.

When you got to the pub, you chose to join in with the drinking. The owner made a bee line as Blythe trotted behind you and laid at your feet, "Lass, we do not let do-," he stopped mid sentence from the look you were giving him. You were sitting up straight, dead face.

"You were saying, sir," you answered curtly.

"What can I get for you miss," he finished instead.

"A pint of whatever, I am not picky," you said, resting your feet on the chair in front of you.

The men went a distance away from you, you imagine to process the thing they just witnessed. A man approached you with a smile on your face and you shake your head putting your other foot on a chair and shoving it away from your table. He quickly turn around, "You'd make more friends if you weren't so prickly."

Murtagh patted at the dog, "My expression and acts are nothing but kind, sir." He shook his head, "Plus, I don't need any more friends when I only need you."

He chuckles, looking at Jamie, "It was a kind thing you did with the soldier. I'll be the only one to admit, that was a good eye you have."

"Don't think much of it, it was also self preservation because I'm not a exactly the kind British soldiers have a keen sense to protect," the man brought you your pint and you started to drink while you viewed in your surroundings.

He pointed at you, "You like everyone to think you're this cold hearted she witch."

"Maybe I am those things," you said like it didn't bother me to have that reputation.

Murtagh shook his head, "You are quite the opposite lass and the only person you are hurting are you." You roll your eyes sighing as he looks at your with a smirk, "And maybe a red headed boy who I suspect would do anything to see you smile once again." You sit up straighter as Murtagh stands while looking at you, while gesturing to Jamie. He lifts his eyebrows speaking you the truth, "Don't think I only talk to you because your good company. I get sick of seeing the boy mope around with his worry for you. A single smile from you can set his day."

You glare at him as your cheeks warm red, "Mind your business."

When he walks away, you sit and continue to process your reality and options. Every now and again you catch a glance at Jamie. You could see his expression and the change in him over the last few weeks. You stand walking your glass over to the bar with Blythe walking behind you. You could tell Dougal was about to start his speech. He wouldn't need Jamie today if you guessed right. Those hanging men were part of this community they didn't need to see Jamie's scars. You leaned against a pillar near Jamie, "You alright," you asked him catching eyes with Murtagh.

You shake off his knowing look. Jamie stood up straight looking at you bewildered from the sudden change in your demeanor, "Are you talking to me?"

"Don't make it a thing, just answer the question," you whisper.

"Aye, I'm fine," he whispers back, glancing at you for a second too long into silence. He clears his thoughts, "If you don't mind me asking, what changed your mind with speaking to me?"

You smirk, "Murtagh paid me."

He shook his head, "Sure," he was trying to hold back a smile. Something appeared to pop up in his head, "Look Deoiridh, I'm sorry about."

"No," you stopped him, "Jamie, I'm stubborn and I don't know what I'm doing. I'm not from a place like this, so."

You noticed a change in his eyes when you said his name instead of Mr. MacTavish. This is where he stopped you, "I only want to help."

"Does that mean you agree I'm stubborn because Murtagh implied I was prickly earlier and that's why I don't make friends," you say while trying to hold back a grin.

He shook his head making his red hair shake with it, “You see comments like that are a trap and I will not be stepping on that one.”

“Smart man,” you say to him.

“And now a compliment, I might think you are wanting to be my friend again,” he whispered back with a smirk.

You see Dougal getting ready to do your speech, “I should be getting out of here and up to my room. I shouldn’t be down here when,” you stopped to look at Dougal, “Well good night.”

“Goodnight Y/N,” he whispered back.

“And Jamie, just for transparency sake, the jury is still out if we are friends,” he paused appearing to hold his breath. You offer a small smile, “I need you to walk over to Murtagh and tell him I was nice then I'll consider being your friend. You know for the sake of proving Murtagh wrong. It's the price you have to pay for my friendship.” And before he can respond, you and Blythe make your way upstairs.

[wcrstarter]

❛ you’re safe with me. ❜ wick verse john

ᴅᴀʀᴇ ᴛᴏ ʙʀᴀᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴀʀᴋ? // @llosgcariad

There was a silent agreement between them, sanctuary was promised to each other whenever they might need it. It wasn't the first time She'd appeared in his home and collapsed onto his couch, it was set in stone once more that it wouldn't be the last. Everything she'd known was turned onto its head, instinct had overtaken her and brought her back to John. He was family to her, a close friend that she regarded like a brother.

The blood on her face and clothes wasn't her own, only a few scrapes and bruises caused discomfort. It was her heart and soul that had been ripped apart. The assassin wipes the blood from her face, then took the time to unlace her boots. Sonja tucked her feet under herself, then leaned heavily into John's side. He was one of the trusted few that ever saw her vulnerable as she was.

"I have never doubted that." She speaks at last, laying her head on his shoulder. "I don't know what to do, what the right move is. I want vengeance but I am tired."

He'd know what she meant, she didn't have to spell it out for him to understand what plagued her thoughts. None of it was fair, Helen's sickness, what happened to the dog, Lucian's death. The only thing she regretted was not being able to help John ruin the fucking coward that brought him back into the fold. Sonja and John both were hitmen that had killed countless targets, but neither one of them would ever hurt an animal.

"Kiran's....well he's still Kiran and still worming his way into my good graces. Then there's Murtagh......." Kiran had pissed her off the last time they'd spoken, bringing him up around John was akin to offering him up as a sacrificial lamb. At present, Sonja did not care. The idiot should listen to her and not take on stupid contracts, like the one out on John. It would be just like Kiran, to win her heart all over again then run off and do something truly stupid. If John followed up on his threat to once shoot Kiran in the foot, she'd make no move to stop him. She might even be the one to hand him the gun.

"I have half a mind to take them all out. Even the high table." The power vacuum that would leave behind would be a far greater headache, they both knew it was an empty threat on her part. "I don't remember how I even became what I am, what brought me into this life. Only what dragged me back."

[everythingloveandanimated]

(Note on Toxic or Not that I didn't want to put in the tags and didn't fit in main post.)

Eragon and Arya, not toxic. Eragon still has feelings for Arya but from my understanding and what I remember, he doesn't push for romance after Eldest. A part of him may hope for it, the desire may eke out in his interactions with her, but overall he's more professional with her. Arya set her boundaries, Eragon respects them.

Murtagh and Nasuada, not toxic just problematic. He brought her into a position where she was tortured. Yes he did it to keep her alive and spare her from Galbatorix's assassins, and did what he could to help her stay sane... Still...ehhhhh sorry guys, not a good foundation for personal shipping tastes.

Also, is Nasuada truly ready or prepared for the political tension that will come with Murtagh as her romantic partner? Even if Murtagh redeems himself, will there still be underlying tension in interactions with the leaders and their courts? She trusts him, but is he the right choice for solidifying her rule and building a dynasty if she looks farther down the line?

On Murtagh's side, is building a life with Nasuada going to be good for him? How is he going to handle the demands being Queen will put on her and his lives? Is the New Royal Court a place he wants to raise a family? How does him being a Dragon Rider affect his ability to be the father he wants to be to his children? Even with redemption, does he feel his past will still cast an uncomfortable shadow over his children?

She wants safety and certainty that she will have a trusted ally. Murtagh also wants that but is worried about the effect his past and his father's past will have on his children. Things those two really need to think about and be realistic about.)

So I know the Disney+ Eragon series is very much in beginning stages (Chris et al are in negotiating if I remember correctly), but one of the things I have thought about since last year is what if Cinema Therapy did videos on the Eragon series?

Psychology of a Hero: Eragon and Saphira

Psychology of a Hero: Nasuada and Roran on Leadership

Villain Psychology: Murtagh, Galbatorix

Psychology of a Hero: Murtagh Specific topics could be Dealing with Guilt/Regret and Consequences of your Actions OR Dealing with Grief. Self-talk and Self Perception/Self Actualization(?).

(Villain Psy during "Eragon". Psy of a Hero if "Murtagh" plus his sequel adventure gets greenlit for a couple seasons.)

Family Therapy: Eragon and Murtagh's relationship

Therapist Reacts: Dealing with Trauma for Thorn and Murtagh

Therapist Reacts: Relationship Advice for Murtagh and Thorn, Eragon and Arya, Murtagh and Nasuada

Toxic or Not: Eragon and Arya, Murtagh and Nasuada

[theawkwardterrier]

Wednesday 100: S5 Series, cont.

Bree (5x06) 

“—and a bowl of milk will be fine, but cream is better."

Bree crosses her arms, looking only half amused. "I think we can take care of your cat, Mama."

"Of course, darling. It's only that I've never left the poor thing alone before."

"He won't be alone, that's the point." Eyeing Claire cuddling Adso, she adds, "Hey, if I didn't know better, I'd say you love that thing more than me."

Jamie, who has been waiting on the porch, sticks his head in. "Dinna be daft, a leannan. O' course we love you and yer wee brother the same."

Murtagh (5x07)

He cannot truly feel his godson's hands, only sees the stricken movement — not a soldier's instincts or someone trained by a healer wife, but a child's impulse, desperate to keep the blood inside where it belongs, to keep hold on someone he loves.

He wishes he could stay, yet he cannot regret what brought him here, cannot regret the righteous fight and brotherhood, the foundations of freedom. Even far from home, he isn't dying for nothing. He is doing it for Jamie, instead of him, so it will be years until he knows himself that it doesn't hurt a bit.

Ian (5x08)

He had known that the Ridge would be changed — he has been gone too long and Uncle Jamie's plans had been too expansive for it not to have — and yet Ian had still imagined that same little cabin here. He had wanted it, in some ways, wanted to somehow find himself turning back into the boy he had been then: someone who had suffered, yes, but someone who could smile without effort, who could imagine his bright future ahead.

But now he is here, haunting that big house, no long husband, father, warrior, tribesman, seeing only hopeless darkness awaiting him.

Marsali (5x09)

"Dinna tell me ye don't have snakes in yer time," Daddy says to Ma, and Marsali hears but does not pause in her work, only thinks to herself Yer time? and So that's what it is about her, and decides to speak of it with Fergus later.

A bit of her does feel invisible just then, wondering if they hadn't considered her worthy of true explanation or even excuses — misspeaking or delirium. The rest, however, feels warmed all through by the thought that they consider her family now, trusting her with their secrets, knowing that she accepts them both unguarded.

Roger (5x09)

He is a minister's son. He knows the confessions of the dying are meant to be sacred. That his father-in-law still lives does not change that he spoke this in confidence, as a last resort.

And yet when Bree asks if there is something else, he does not recall his duty to the dying, but that to his wife. He has kept things from her before, telling himself that it was for her own good, and brought only suffering to them all. He’s learned that lesson. He tells Brianna the hard truth.

He thinks Jamie Fraser would—will understand that.

Jamie (5x11)

"We just finished the upstairs," he had told John, and it feels now as if he had spoken a curse upon them, that specter that has visited them more than once before, as they grew settled, as they came to believe that they would have a life of perfectly twined peace.

But Jamie Fraser decides no. They will not be haunted again. They will have that peace, their walls and neighbors firm around them.

He has burned the cross. He will burn the world to find his wife and bring her back whole to this home they have built together.

Fergus (post 5x12)

The nightmares only start a week after.

It makes Fergus feel foolish, that he could ride to rescue Milady, take lives doing it, that he could find Marsali, think she was dead and still hold and joke with her later, and now once everything is calm, the nightmares come.

It makes him feel foolish, that he dreams of himself, laughing with Milord while Marsali shouts for him until she is shoved into silence and Germain stands outside alone, waiting and waiting.

That's why his hand finds the bottle: so he won't feel foolish, guilty, helpless, won't feel anything at all.

Claire (S5)

She realizes one day, looking around the house, that she still doesn't own a vase. She realizes the next minute that it doesn't matter.

She has here her garden and her favorite berry patches in the woods, patients and people who greet her each day. She has the children who have become hers, and her grandchildren too. Her husband has given her two rings, a cat, seeds for cabbages and marigolds, a strong roof, a surgery built by his own hands, windows no matter how dear the price, and everything of himself besides.

She has the vase already, and more.

[nellie-elizabeth]

Outlander: Give Me Liberty (6x05)

Lord John Grey!!! My beloved!

Cons:

I remain convinced that they never fully stuck the landing with Murtagh and Jocasta... I was a fan of Murtagh sticking around on the show as long as he did, but the fact that his lasting legacy is now as Jocasta's sadly dead lover instead of Jamie's beloved uncle/father figure is kind of annoying to me. The fact that we spent time on Jocasta mourning for Murtagh here felt very strange.

The elephant in the room whenever we're at River Run: Jocasta is a freakin' slave owner. So when we're sitting around and giggling with her, Claire's getting high with her, all that stuff, it's just super uncomfortable and never properly dealt with. The character of Mary didn't help matters. I don't remember if this is someone we'll learn more about later, I can't quite recall this plot thread from the books, but in this episode she was basically there as set dressing. We learn her mother died and that Jocasta gave her time off to grieve. Okay, so is this supposed to be like a "Jocasta is a good master" thing? Because eww. And then later she's like, telling Jamie that Jocasta has seemed down lately because of losing Murtagh, basically there to provide emotional support to her white master and her white master's family, and I'm just cringing the whole time it's happening. I'll admit I don't have a solution to offer, I'm not sure how I would have made this better, but I'm certainly always uncomfortable by the way it's just kind of... not dealt with in the story.

We have another example of Claire self-medicating in this episode, but it's rather blink-and-you-miss-it. I think one of the reasons this story isn't clicking with me is that Claire is acting completely normal and nobody suspects anything is wrong, outside of the times she's actively using the ether. Five episodes in, I guess I would expect there to be a bit more of a bleed into Claire's daily life. I wish people were picking up on subtle signs that something might be amiss. As it is, it's kind of like Claire's medicating isn't actually hurting her or anyone else, almost like it's not even a real problem. That's not what I think they're trying to imply, though.

Also, a small note, but I wasn't crazy about seeing the flashback to Claire's rape by King Louis. It felt like a weird invasive thought that had no real function beyond reminding us that sexual assault is an all too repeated theme in this show... thanks a lot...

Pros:

Let's start with stuff back at the Ridge, because you know I'm going to want to spend this whole dang review talking about my favorite character, and I've got to check in with some of the others first.

We learn that there have been some rumors running around because Roger is spending so much time with the widow Amy McCallum. Brianna is a little bothered by this, not because she thinks Roger would cheat on her, but because it does give off a certain impression. Roger, however, is enjoying feeling needed by Amy and her son Aiden, since Brianna is so self-sufficient and making all these modernizations to their home without his help. They end up talking about it and Roger creates some distance from Amy for the sake of appearances. Brianna then shares with Roger that she's pregnant!

I surprised myself by finding their story in this episode rather sweet, especially the pregnancy announcement. I think what I liked about it was that it was the kind of nuanced conflict where I understood the feelings of both people involved, and it was handled like a real couple who trust and love one another. They didn't get into some huge fight, they just have a couple conversations about it and move on. I also liked Brianna taking Lizzie, Marsali, and Malva around with her as she works out plans for modern plumbing on the Ridge. It was fun to see all these young gals on an independent little outing.

But then of course there's something more sinister afoot... on that outing, we see some sort of charm circle with finger bones in it, and by the end of the episode we've learned that Malva is the one who's up to something. The scene of her cutting off a corpse's fingers with unadulterated savage glee on her face was one I'm not likely to forget any time soon. We're heading rapidly to the point where things are going to come to a head with Malva, and I'm excited to see it. We also see her viciousness in another instant, when Roger catches her fooling around with a man, and she threatens to tell people he was kissing Amy McCallum, if Roger dares to tell Malva's father. Malva's whole innocent act is proving to be just that, an act! The actress gives such a great and sinister performance.

Jamie calling Fergus "my son" in this episode fucking slayed me as it always does, just wanted to state that for the record... after an incident where a printer's shop is attacked by a mob, and the man in question shot, Jamie worries that Fergus will be in danger in New Bern with his own print shop. Since Jocasta was the one who funded it, Jamie talks to her about it, basically warning her not to try to use her influence to get Fergus to print anything that will get him into trouble. I... know where this is going, provided the show lasts long enough to get to it, and I'm already dreading it.

Flora MacDonald's inclusion in this episode was a great deal of fun, it's always cool to see real historical figures. I'm not sure the flashback at the start with the Bonnie Prince was fully necessary, but it did help to remind us of what the show was once about. I thought they got a great actress to play her, and I like the complexity of such a figure, someone whose loyalties were once with the cause of rebellion, but now firmly align with that of the king. Just like Jamie is supposed to be, and would likely have remained, if not for his time traveling wife and daughter telling him the outcome of history...

That's of course what this show is about, more and more, as we move forward: the looming Revolution. Jamie does a great job in this episode of conversing with other advocates of the rebel cause, of speaking their language and aligning himself with their goals, but the interesting thing is, he's just backing the horse he knows is going to win. It's not that he doesn't find the idea of independence appealing or honorable in and of itself, but the situation is much more complex than that for him, and it certainly wouldn't be an easy decision if it weren't for what he knows. I like how he toes that line, by helping the printer who was printing loyalist materials, but then turning around and telling the rebels that he was fighting for the sake of a free press, not the specifics of what was being said.

And of course one of the factors making this whole thing difficult for Jamie is that it means the severing of his friendship with Lord John Grey... my bestie... also Jamie's bestie...

I love how David Berry plays John, because there's this extremely awkward tension in the air in every scene between Jamie and John, not in a way where you think they don't enjoy seeing each other, but in a way where John isn't even really trying to hide the fact that he's in love with him? And Jamie doesn't quite know how to handle it? I don't know, they just give off such chaotic energy of repressed longing on one side and genuine fondness mingled with unavoidably linked trauma on the other, and I'm deeply obsessed with it.

SO many good quotes in this one. It starts at the very beginning when John is asked if Jamie's a friend of his, and John replies without missing a beat, "one of my dearest." And when he says he has a "particular fondness for reformed Jacobites"? Please, sir. This is a Wendy's. Also, when they're in public or talking about each other to outsiders, they're all "Lord John" and "Mr. Fraser" and then they call each other "John" and "Jamie" when they're speaking privately and it warms my heart!

And also they defend the print shop together. I love how poetic this is, this moment where they're fighting side by side for the same purpose, right before they're about to be irrevocably on opposite sides of a conflict that will last for years... god, the look on John's face when it clicked what Jamie was telling him! "God, I am a fool." And Jamie trying to reassure him, and John getting all worked up... "You, you may lose your life!" He loves him so much, it's unreal. Of course, Jamie goes ahead and asks John for a huge favor, asking him to stall the Redcoats so he can rescue the rebels who are meeting, and John does it even though it goes against what he believes in. That's real friendship, baby! It's so sad, because I don't know when the story will have occasion to include John again. I know that he's not around for quite a large chunk of the story in the books. I love him and I miss him already.

So there you have it! Things are really close to boiling over on all sorts of fronts in Outlander now. In the larger political story, and with Malva at the Ridge... can't wait to see what's next!

8.5/10

[imagineclaireandjamie]

For the Modern Glasgow au: the bairns and Murtagh organizing a secret big renewal vows party for Jamie & Claire for a milestone anniversary in place of the one they didn't have on their actual wedding.

Modern Glasgow AU

It started with an accident.

Murtagh still didn’t quite know how it had happened - only that it had ended with sixteen-year-old William racing into the house one afternoon, screaming for Claire to come quickly and that Jamie was hurt.

Quickly he’d kissed Suzette goodbye and raced out with Claire and William toward the barn and then around the side. Jamie sat ramrod straight up against one wall, Ian Murray’s strong hand on shoulder to steady him, his bloody left hand curled up against his side.

He’d held Jamie’s other shoulder and William had held his Da’s right hand as Claire meticulously uncurled his broken fingers, wiped away the blood and cleaned and sutured the wounds.

The hardest part wasn’t seeing Jamie’s reaction to the pain. It was his reaction to Claire’s matter-of-fact statement, about fifteen minutes after they arrived:

“Jamie - I need to cut off your wedding ring. It’s cutting off the blood flow to your finger.”

Indeed it was - for Jamie’s fingers had all swollen to far larger than their normal size.

Murtagh squeezed his godson’s shoulder. “Ye need to do it, lad. It’s just a ring. It can be fixed.”

Gently Claire raised one hand - smeared with Jamie’s blood - to cradle her husband’s cheek. Looking into his pained eyes. “Let me do this to heal you.”

He sighed, and nodded. 

“The cutters please, William,” Claire said gently. William rooted around in her emergency box and three short snips later, Claire deposited the ring - snipped neatly into an open circle - into Ian Murray’s waiting hand.

“Dinna fash,” he said to his brother-in-law, concerned eyes meeting Murtagh’s. “We’ll set it right.”

---

A few years before, Murtagh had asked auld Hiram Crombie - an institution in the wee village of Broch Mordha, just a few miles from Lallybroch - to repair a few pieces of old jewelry that Suzette had inherited from her mother and grandmother. They were small but precise repairs - and Suzette had been so surprised and pleased when he’d given them to her for their anniversary.

So after he and Claire and William and Ian had helped Jamie back to the house - hearing all about the old shelf that had collapsed on him and the sharp tools that had rained down on his hands as he protected his head - Murtagh got to thinking.

That’s why he murmured to Claire, once they had tucked Jamie into bed and he had been surrounded by Julia and Bree and Jenny and Faith and Mrs. Crook and Fergus and Marsali and everyone else in the house who had missed the excitement outside - “Let me take care of fixing this.”

Claire had been surprised, of course - yet grateful.

And Hiram was glad to make the repair.

“I’ve a wee bit of silver in the back,” he said softly, examining the cut ring with his enormous magnified spectacles. “Should be a straightforward job. Ready to pick up next Tuesday.”

Turns out it wasn’t only Murtagh who had a plan - for when he returned home to Lallybroch, Julia and Fergus buttonholed him and sat him down in the parlor, where William and Bree and Faith and Marsali were waiting.

“We were thinking,” Fergus explained, “that because Maman and Papa did not have a big wedding - when Papa’s ring is ready, we can surprise them with another wedding.”

Murtagh narrowed his eyes at his eldest godson/grandson. “Says the man who eloped and didnae even tell his family until afterward.”

Fergus shrugged and exchanged glances with his wife, who rubbed her pregnant belly. “Fergus and I - we’ll have our big wedding when we’re ready. But Jamie and Claire are at the point where they deserve one.”

“They didnae want a fuss for their 20th anniversary last year,” Faith reasoned. “But there’s no reason why we can’t pull together something for them now.”

Murtagh crossed his arms. “I dinnae suppose you have a priest in mind and everything?”

Bree nodded, smiling. “Father Kenneth will do it. It’s all sorted.”

Murtagh looked at all the Frasers - not so wee anymore - one by one. So proud of the young adults they had become.

“Weel - Hiram said Tuesday. That’s five days from now.”

“Plenty of time.” William pulled out a much-folded piece of paper. “We just need you to be the distraction.”

---

“...Not sure why I needed to come wi’ ye,” Jamie said for the third time, in the passenger seat of Murtagh’s battered Volvo. “Claire has her own car.”

“All will be revealed.” Murtagh slid into the visitor parking space outside of the clinic that Claire ran, and pulled the parking brake. “Trust me.”

Jamie sighed. “I suppose I can still surprise Claire every now and again. I cannae remember the last time I met her at the end of a shift. Though I did do that a lot right at the beginning...”

The door opened and Claire - still clad in her bright blue scrubs - emerged. Jamie opened the car door, stood, and waved. Murtagh watched her smile and quickly approach them, stopping for a quick kiss.

“Not that I’m unhappy to see you, but I have my own car.”

“I’m under strict orders from Murtagh that you’re to come with us back home,” Jamie explained. “We can pick up your car later.”

He slid inside and scooched over so that Claire could sit beside him. 

“Now - seatbelts please,” Murtagh said as he shifted into reverse and backed out of the parking space. “I have six wee fiends back home who will insist.”

Jamie raised a questioning eyebrow toward his wife, who smiled and shrugged and took his hand in hers for the drive back home.

---

Jamie’s mouth hurt from smiling so much.

At the row of Fraser and Murray children waiting in two lines outside the entrance to Lallybroch.

At Father Kenneth waiting in the landing.

At Suzette and Mrs. Crook standing behind a table laden with cake and punch.

At  Jenny and Ian, so happy to be sharing the special day that they had missed the first time around.

At Julia and William and Bree and Faith and Fergus, who had calmly explained what was to happen and then produced his repaired wedding ring.

At Claire, still wearing her scrubs, smiling through happy tears as they renewed their vows - this time in the presence of a priest.

Much later, nestled against Claire and sharing a tumbler of thirty-year whisky, huddled around the fire with his children, the words “thank you” seemed inadequate.

One by one they rose to hug their parents, whispering words of congratulations, before retiring to their own bedrooms upstairs.

Jamie lay his hand - still bruised and with a few sutures still in place - on Claire’s knee, his wide silver ring shining in the firelight.

“There is no end to my love for you,” he whispered, holding her close.

She pressed her own left hand - with her own silver ring, Ellen’s ring - atop his. “And for my love for you,” she whispered. “No end. Never.”

He leaned over for a kiss. “Not ever,” he promised.

[renee-writer]

Frank's Child Chapter 14 Frank!

Even knowing what faces them back at the castle, she isn't as worried as she should be. For in the arms of her husband she feels safe. She no longer carries the weight of time travel and being expectant alone. They also rest on the broad shoulders of Jamie. She rests against his chest, half asleep when his startled cry, as his arm tightens to a death grip around her, wake her with a start.

Frank hopes he is heading the right way. He had got directions in the same pub where he was able to find clothes. They are strange uncomfortable on him. But he blends in. With the proper clothes, some food in his stomach, and directions, he is off.

But without a horse, the going is very slow. He tries to stick to roads cut into the forest. Relying on his good sense of direction and the long forgotten wilderness survival training, he is working his way steadily towards the place that he prays will lead him to Claire. He brushes through some brush and startles a horse and it’s riders. He goes to apologize and stops dead. Claire! Claire and a man who seems equally stunned.

Claire is dressed for the time they are in. She had been asleep against the huge Viking, against who's chest she rested. He is massive with a kilt, sword, a head full of red curls. No one says anything for an eternal minutes, then Claire says, “Frank!” The man she is with relaxes before getting tense again, pulling her close again.

“Sassanech, are you sure it is him?” Sassanech, Frank thinks in anger. Who is this man who calls his wife a slur?

“Yes Jamie. It is.” She makes no move to dismount and this Jamie keeps her close.

“Iffin,” is whispered under his breath. He straightens pulling Claire straight up with him. “Frank Randall, I presume?”

“That is me. May I ask your name?”

“James Alexander Malcolm Mackenzie Fraser, Jamie to Claire and most everyone else.”

“James, thank you for looking after my wife. I will take her now.”

“No Frank, you won't.” He stares at her with his mouth open. “It isn’t as simple as all that. Jamie knows all about the stones and time travel. He and his clan rescued me from your ancestor, Jack. He is quite evil. I had to make up a story about how I ended up alone in the woods in what they saw as naught but a shift. The story of my attack and almost rape would have been true if not for Murtagh, Jamie’s Godfather, who knocked him out and took me to the others.” Frank is distracted from her tale by Jamie's hand rubbing softly up and down her arm, by the way she allows it and even seems relaxed by it.

“I told them I was traveling with you and you were attracted and killed. All seemed fine until Jamie's uncle, the Laird of Castle Leoch and the Mackenzie clan, sent his men out to find you and give you a proper burial. Jamie came to the rescue. Had a kinsman, unknown to the Mackenzie’s, who had died. His body was found and substituted for yours. He was buried as Frank Beauchamp, as I couldn’t be Randall here.”

“So I should refer to you as Claire Beauchamp. That is fine Claire.”

“No. I am… You can’t refer to me as anyone. You are dead Frank and you look almost exactly like the horrid Black Jack Randall.”

“Not an issue. We won’t go back to the castle. We were just head back to the stones. Go home.”

“We can't do that either. I can't. I am Claire Fraser now. And pregnant.”

Jamie holds his breath prepared to jump off if this Black Jack look-a-like tries to harm Claire. But he just stares at her.

“You are married? To this man?”

“Yes. It was done because I trust him. He knew all and believed me. Column, his uncle would have had me marry someone with you dead and the baby. As I didn't wish to marry an old widower, Jamie and I snuck away and were hand fast. We are just now returning.”

“Wait so the baby is mine?” his mind was catching up with the shock of her news and putting things together.

“Ours. Yes. I realized on the initial ride to Leoch.”

“Oh God Claire! We did it! Well we must leave now. Get back and prepare for my heir.” He expects her to jump down and join him. Celebrate with him. But she stays where she is, in the arms of another. He whispers something in her ear and she shakes her head.

“Frank, the snow will be falling soon. I don’t know if it is safe to go through while pregnant. I think the best course of action is to continue back to the castle. You pretend to be a relative of Black Jack’s, you are but we needn't say how long lost. We wait until this one is born then we can decide.”

“Decide. There is naught to decide. You are my wife. That is my child. We will be heading back. Now!”

“My wife has spoken. She isn't your wife here, but your widow. The bairn is legally a Fraser. If she decides to change that, she may, of course. But we are heading back to Leoch now. If you want my help with my uncle, you will accept her decision as I will when she makes it.” Jamie says firmly.

“Christ Claire! Do you love him, is that why you hesitate?”

“I do. I didn’t mean to. But it is to powerful to deny. I love you both. I need time and I won't risk going through the stones until the baby is born. So, we will be the Fraser's as we are. You will be Frank Randall. We will find time to talk and figure this out. It is all I can do. Will you come with us or go back?”

“You leave me no choice but to follow.” He grumbles. Jamie nods and starts Donas off again in a slow trot so he can keep up.

[eliza-makepeace]

I know many of you will most probably kill me if I say this, but I need to take it out: I honestly feel like Chris didn't develop Murtagh and Nasuada the way he should have. I mean, their supposed relationship. It would be great if they were together in a near future, I'm not hating on the ship, but it felt as if out of absolutely nothing Christopher decided to put them together... Murtagh decides to convince Galbatorix to bring her to Uru'baen to save her from getting killed and they've only spoken once. It's not like he was already in love with her. If it had been Eragon instead of Murtagh, he may have fallen in love more easily, but we're talking about Murtagh. This young man has enormous trust issues and I highly doubt that just because he thinks Nasuada is fantastically fabulous he would fall for her. It would take him way more time to do that merely because of his upbringing and so forth. And then, when he takes her and Galbatorix forces him to torture her... Yes, they do get to talk and sort of befriend each other, but I don't see how –also we have to understand they know each other very little from before their current situation– someone like Murtagh would go to the extreme of literally risking his life for someone he knows very little. I am the first one that wants Murtagh to be happy and I think Nasuada is perfect for him, but considering Murtagh's– and even Nasuada's– way of thinking... It feels like, in order for them to actually be in love with each other, they'd need to know each other way better... I don't know....

[dia-viller]

There are so many characters who won't let Murtagh become a king/prince consort if he marries Nasuada.

Orik - he obviously hates Murtagh because he killed Orik's father and a king of dwarves. The dwarves would seek vengeance and they hate Murtagh.

Orik's words from Eldest:

"And when you find him . . . grind his bones to dust, Eragon. Pull his teeth and fill his veins with molten lead; make him suffer for every minute of Hrothgar’s life that he stole.”

Orrin - he doesn't like Eragon's family, especially Roran. Orrin initially disagreed with the idea of Nasuada becoming High Queen. He wanted to become a King of Alagaësia. Besides, it was Murtagh who led and hid the army of Laughing Dead soldiers and caused a lot of trouble for Orrin's army.

(Murtagh is Uvek's blood brother, who is an Urgal, and Orrin hates Urgals)

Arya - she doesn't like Murtagh. She understands that Murtagh can become as powerful as she and Eragon and because of his knowledge of the Name of the Names. The Elves won't allow another immortal human Rider to become a king, especially with Murtagh's past actions. He technically killed Oromis and Glaedr, and I guess a lot of Elves hate him because of that. (And because of his father who killed a lot of dragons and riders)

Eragon - he didn't even allow himself to become a king, he can't promise that he won't use that power against others. Eragon only started to trust Murtagh, so if Murtagh becomes a king, Eragon will be very worried. Eragon would rather keep Murtagh close to him as another teacher in Academy.

Eragon's words from Inheritance:

"I could end up becoming Galbatorix, despite my best intentions. As it is, my power makes people tend to agree with me. I’ve seen it in my dealings throughout the Empire.… If you were in my position, would you be able to resist the temptation to meddle, just a little, in order to make things better? My presence here unbalances things, Nasuada.

(Eragon didn't even know how to react to the fact that Arya became queen and he trusted her completely).

Murtagh doesn't have a good reputation. He is the son of Morzan who was a traitor. Murtagh was Galbatorix's servant, he knows the Name of the Names, and when he will improve his magic skills, he may be as powerful as any other Rider.

And I don't think Murtagh wants that. He and Thorn are finally free, but he still has feelings for Nasuada.

(Or Nasuada can just hide Murtagh in the castle)

[renee-writer]

Win a Date Chapter 5 First Date

“I can’t believe you talked me into this.” Claire mutters the next day as she changes into jeans and a long sleeve shirt appropriate for hiking. She still mumbles as she pulls boots on over her think socks.

“It isn't like you are going to be tortured. You are going on a date with a lad looking for a real relationship. Could be worse.” Geillis says with a smile.

“Ugg. Fine but I promise you, if this goes bad, I will never trust you with a blind date again.”

“It will be fine. I've a good feeling.”

“Okay.” He pulls his hiking clothes on. “Murtagh, this lass better be all you promised. If she turns out to be another flighty lass, I will throttle you.” Jamie threatens as he brushes his red curls out and and pulls a ball cap on.

“You won’t be needing to be doing all that. She has been thoughly vetted. So go. Have a good time then you can thank me later.” Jamie rolls his eyes at his Godfather.

“If she is, I will.”

The Overlook at nine. Those were the instructions. She has no idea who she was looking for. He will find you, Gel had assured her. Knowing what she looks like puts him at an advantage. She isn’t sure she likes that. “One date.” She reminds herself. Just one if he is the jerk she fears. More if.. But no. Focus on today. She takes a deep breath and looks around. A beautiful spot with plenty of green grass and wildflowers. She had to admit he had picked a beautiful spot.

He watches her as she looks around. As advertised, she is lovely. He is happy to see the old jeans and shirt, the scuffed boots, the lack of make up, her curly hair hanging free. He smiles when he sees her push it out of her eyes. An opening.

“You need a ball cap lass.” She looks up. He is tall. Very tall. With piercing blue eyes and amazing hair. But his old clothes and casual attitude tell her, he probably isn't who she is waiting for.

“Thank you. I am waiting for someone. My mate Geillis suggests that leaving my hair down and free is better.” She self consciously shrugged.

“It is verra pretty Claire.” A jerk.

“You. You are my date?”

“Aye. Disappointed?”

“No just surprised. You are not who I was expecting…”

“Jamie. James Fraser.”

“Claire Beauchamp.” She offers her hand. He takes it long forgotten manners resurface and he lifts it up and gently kisses the back of it. “Oh.”

“You aren’t who I was expecting either. They told me but..”

“They?”

“My sister and Godfather. They set all these up. Let me know after the fact.”

“Wait! You didn't know what they were about either?” They had started walking.

“Either?”

“Yes, my mate, Geillis, she entered me in your contest without telling me until after. I swore I wouldn’t come if I did win.”

“Yet you are here?” she shrugs. “They dinna tell me until after they chose you.” He grins. “They ken'd I wouldn’t be happy.”

She smiles back. “Better to ask for forgiveness then permission, eh?”

“Aye. Something like that. Were you just as frustrating with your mate?”

“Oh lord yes!” she laughs. “I told her if you turned out to be a jerk, I would never trust her again.”

“Now would you think me a jerk?”

“Actor. I guess I had an idea of exactly what type of person you would be.” She looks fown and steps over the small branch in the path.

“I see. I was guilty of the same. The reason, you see for the contest, my last few dates have been with the same ridiculous type lasses. The want to be seen with me or want other things that wouldn’t lead to a relationship.”

“I admit that I really don’t know who you are.” Ge stops and she does too when she sees he has. “I am sorry about that.”

“Oh please don't be. I am glad.”

“Me too. To meet you. Not the façade. I am meeting you, right?”

“Aye Claire, you are. Wish to rest.” She sinks gratefully into the fallen branch. He joins her.

“I thought I was in shape.” He chuckles.

“You are doing well. So, wish to tell me about yourself?”

“I am a druggist. Own my own store. An only child who lost her parents at age five. Her uncle who raised her died two years ago. Life with my best mate Geillis. She is a nurse. My last serious relationship ended when I found him in bed with one of his students. He was a professor. I spend most evenings watching trashy TV shows with Gel. I haven’t had sex in six no seven months.” She is blushing. “God sorry. I am not after… Ah, please tell me about yourself.”

“I've an older sister, Janet, called Jenny. Our parents still live and work the farm I grew up on. Jenny is married to my best friend Ian. You know my profession. I spend most evenings running lines. But I adore mind numbing trashy telly shows. I have never had a serious relationship. It is hard when the lasses all know who you are. As for sex, it has been 29 years. A virgin. So..” She looks up at him with wide eyes. “Yah. Everyone assumes. The last date I was on, the lass straight out said she wished to take me to bed. I wasn’t interested. Sex for the sake of getting off doesn’t draw me.” He looks across the valley under them.”It has to mean more. Until I find the one who I see a future in, then.. “

“Wow. You surely aren't who I was expecting. I didn’t mean, when I told you..”

“Dinna fash Claire. I know.”

“How do you, in your line of work, keep up the image you need to project?”

“Ah, smoke and mirrors. Pretty lasses on my arm at awards shows. Photographs that seem to show me as a playboy. In reality, I am a farm boy who just wishes to act. To have a lass to partner with, raise a family with, outside the spotlight.”

“Awards. I should know you.”

“Do me a favor, okay. When you Google my name, recall what I told you, eh?”

“I promise.”

“Are you hungry or thirsty Claire. I've stuff in the knapsack for a picnic.”

“Yes please.” He lays it out. They sit and talk about their families. She tells him about traveling with her uncle and all the places she went. About starting Beauchamp Drugs with his investment and many prayers. He tells her of growing up at Lallybroch. Of his wonderful bossy sister. His steady parents. Murtagh, who is his Godfather and conscious. About his families fears when he announced what he wanted to do and their support.

“So we both started our careers with trepidation and family support.” She lays back, looking up to the sky. He sits beside her looking out over the valley.

“Aye. I am sorry about your family.”

“Thank you. It isn’t easy but I am glad Uncle Lamb got to see me make a good start.”

“Aye. I must confess. I knew what you did. Even have a report from a investigator about what a good druggist you are. Good and patient. Kind.”

“You sent people to investigate me?” she turns her eyes to him.

“Not I.” he is blushing.

“Right. You didn’t know.”

“No. Don’t be angry. They were just looking after me. Had to know you were who you portrayed yourself to be.”

“I am not mad. Intrigued. If I didn’t think it would embarrass you, I would look you up now.”

“Thanks. You probably wouldn’t get a signal anyway.”

She pulls out his phone and sees he is right. A shrug. The camera works though. She snaps some pictures of the beauty that surrounds them before turning it to him. “Do you mind?”

“No. You won’t post it on SM will you?”

“No. Not my style. It is just you are very handsome with the sun reflecting off that wonderful hair.” He grins and pulls the cap off. She snaps a few shots.

“My turn.” He turns his own phone’s camera to her. She leans against the stone by where they had stopped and gives him a big smile. “You are quite beautiful Claire.”

“Thanks but I am sure I will find much beautiful lasses on your arm.”

“No. You won’t. Not in my eyes. None that matches you in inner and outer beauty.” Now she is blushing. “May I see you again Claire?”

“Yes. I didn’t think I would be having more then one date with you. But, I do want to see you again.”

“I thought the same. I am glad we were both wrong. May I give you my number? “

“”You may.” She hands him her phone. He enters it and saves it. “So more hiking?”

“No. I am thinking horse back riding. If that is okay?”

“Perfect. I haven’t in awhile but do know how.” She helps gather up the picnic supplies. “Where?”

“I’ve a mate, John. He has some great riding horses. Private, ye ken.”

“Right. I get that. I only have Sunday’s available. That alright?”

“Perfect.” They start down. He gives her John's address. “Say nine?”

“I will be there.”

“Will I hear from you between now and then?”

“You will. I will text you when I get home. Let you know I made it okay.”

“Thank you.” They are back where they meet. “I am glad you took a chance Claire.”

“I am too. Glad you did too “

He takes her hands and kisses their backs. “Until Sunday.”

“Yes. I will text you. “

“Good. Recall don't believe what Google says about me.”

“I won't.” On impulse, she stands on her toes and kisses his cheek. “Goodbye for now Jamie.”

“Good bye Claire.”

[renee-writer]

Win a Date Chapter 5 First Date

“I can’t believe you talked me into this.” Claire mutters the next day as she changes into jeans and a long sleeve shirt appropriate for hiking. She still mumbles as she pulls boots on over her think socks.

“It isn't like you are going to be tortured. You are going on a date with a lad looking for a real relationship. Could be worse.” Geillis says with a smile.

“Ugg. Fine but I promise you, if this goes bad, I will never trust you with a blind date again.”

“It will be fine. I've a good feeling.”

“Okay.” He pulls his hiking clothes on. “Murtagh, this lass better be all you promised. If she turns out to be another flighty lass, I will throttle you.” Jamie threatens as he brushes his red curls out and and pulls a ball cap on.

“You won’t be needing to be doing all that. She has been thoughly vetted. So go. Have a good time then you can thank me later.” Jamie rolls his eyes at his Godfather.

“If she is, I will.”

The Overlook at nine. Those were the instructions. She has no idea who she was looking for. He will find you, Gel had assured her. Knowing what she looks like puts him at an advantage. She isn’t sure she likes that. “One date.” She reminds herself. Just one if he is the jerk she fears. More if.. But no. Focus on today. She takes a deep breath and looks around. A beautiful spot with plenty of green grass and wildflowers. She had to admit he had picked a beautiful spot.

He watches her as she looks around. As advertised, she is lovely. He is happy to see the old jeans and shirt, the scuffed boots, the lack of make up, her curly hair hanging free. He smiles when he sees her push it out of her eyes. An opening.

“You need a ball cap lass.” She looks up. He is tall. Very tall. With piercing blue eyes and amazing hair. But his old clothes and casual attitude tell her, he probably isn't who she is waiting for.

“Thank you. I am waiting for someone. My mate Geillis suggests that leaving my hair down and free is better.” She self consciously shrugged.

“It is verra pretty Claire.” A jerk.

“You. You are my date?”

“Aye. Disappointed?”

“No just surprised. You are not who I was expecting…”

“Jamie. James Fraser.”

“Claire Beauchamp.” She offers her hand. He takes it long forgotten manners resurface and he lifts it up and gently kisses the back of it. “Oh.”

“You aren’t who I was expecting either. They told me but..”

“They?”

“My sister and Godfather. They set all these up. Let me know after the fact.”

“Wait! You didn't know what they were about either?” They had started walking.

“Either?”

“Yes, my mate, Geillis, she entered me in your contest without telling me until after. I swore I wouldn’t come if I did win.”

“Yet you are here?” she shrugs. “They dinna tell me until after they chose you.” He grins. “They ken'd I wouldn’t be happy.”

She smiles back. “Better to ask for forgiveness then permission, eh?”

“Aye. Something like that. Were you just as frustrating with your mate?”

“Oh lord yes!” she laughs. “I told her if you turned out to be a jerk, I would never trust her again.”

“Now would you think me a jerk?”

“Actor. I guess I had an idea of exactly what type of person you would be.” She looks down and steps over the small branch in the path.

“I see. I was guilty of the same. The reason, you see for the contest, my last few dates have been with the same ridiculous type lasses. The want to be seen with me or want other things that wouldn’t lead to a relationship.”

“I admit that I really don’t know who you are.” He stops and she does too when she sees he has. “I am sorry about that.”

“Oh please don't be. I am glad.”

“Me too. To meet you. Not the façade. I am meeting you, right?”

“Aye Claire, you are. Wish to rest.” She sinks gratefully into the fallen branch. He joins her.

“I thought I was in shape.” He chuckles.

“You are doing well. So, wish to tell me about yourself?”

“I am a druggist. Own my own store. An only child who lost her parents at age five. Her uncle who raised her died two years ago. Life with my best mate Geillis. She is a nurse. My last serious relationship ended when I found him in bed with one of his students. He was a professor. I spend most evenings watching trashy TV shows with Gel. I haven’t had sex in six no seven months.” She is blushing. “God sorry. I am not after… Ah, please tell me about yourself.”

“I've an older sister, Janet, called Jenny. Our parents still live and work the farm I grew up on. Jenny is married to my best friend Ian. You know my profession. I spend most evenings running lines. But I adore mind numbing trashy telly shows. I have never had a serious relationship. It is hard when the lasses all know who you are. As for sex, it has been 29 years. A virgin. So..” She looks up at him with wide eyes. “Yah. Everyone assumes. The last date I was on, the lass straight out said she wished to take me to bed. I wasn’t interested. Sex for the sake of getting off doesn’t draw me.” He looks across the valley under them.”It has to mean more. Until I find the one who I see a future in, then.. “

“Wow. You surely aren't who I was expecting. I didn’t mean, when I told you..”

“Dinna fash Claire. I know.”

“How do you, in your line of work, keep up the image you need to project?”

“Ah, smoke and mirrors. Pretty lasses on my arm at awards shows. Photographs that seem to show me as a playboy. In reality, I am a farm boy who just wishes to act. To have a lass to partner with, raise a family with, outside the spotlight.”

“Awards. I should know you.”

“Do me a favor, okay. When you Google my name, recall what I told you, eh?”

“I promise.”

“Are you hungry or thirsty Claire. I've stuff in the knapsack for a picnic.”

“Yes please.” He lays it out. They sit and talk about their families. She tells him about traveling with her uncle and all the places she went. About starting Beauchamp Drugs with his investment and many prayers. He tells her of growing up at Lallybroch. Of his wonderful bossy sister. His steady parents. Murtagh, who is his Godfather and conscious. About his families fears when he announced what he wanted to do and their support.

“So we both started our careers with trepidation and family support.” She lays back, looking up to the sky. He sits beside her looking out over the valley.

“Aye. I am sorry about your family.”

“Thank you. It isn’t easy but I am glad Uncle Lamb got to see me make a good start.”

“Aye. I must confess. I knew what you did. Even have a report from a investigator about what a good druggist you are. Good and patient. Kind.”

“You sent people to investigate me?” she turns her eyes to him.

“Not I.” he is blushing.

“Right. You didn’t know.”

“No. Don’t be angry. They were just looking after me. Had to know you were who you portrayed yourself to be.”

“I am not mad. Intrigued. If I didn’t think it would embarrass you, I would look you up now.”

“Thanks. You probably wouldn’t get a signal anyway.”

She pulls out his phone and sees he is right. A shrug. The camera works though. She snaps some pictures of the beauty that surrounds them before turning it to him. “Do you mind?”

“No. You won’t post it on SM will you?”

“No. Not my style. It is just you are very handsome with the sun reflecting off that wonderful hair.” He grins and pulls the cap off. She snaps a few shots.

“My turn.” He turns his own phone’s camera to her. She leans against the stone by where they had stopped and gives him a big smile. “You are quite beautiful Claire.”

“Thanks but I am sure I will find much beautiful lasses on your arm.”

“No. You won’t. Not in my eyes. None that matches you in inner and outer beauty.” Now she is blushing. “May I see you again Claire?”

“Yes. I didn’t think I would be having more then one date with you. But, I do want to see you again.”

“I thought the same. I am glad we were both wrong. May I give you my number? “

“”You may.” She hands him her phone. He enters it and saves it. “So more hiking?”

“No. I am thinking horse back riding. If that is okay?”

“Perfect. I haven’t in awhile but do know how.” She helps gather up the picnic supplies. “Where?”

“I’ve a mate, John. He has some great riding horses. Private, ye ken.”

“Right. I get that. I only have Sunday’s available. That alright?”

“Perfect.” They start down. He gives her John's address. “Say nine?”

“I will be there.”

“Will I hear from you between now and then?”

“You will. I will text you when I get home. Let you know I made it okay.”

“Thank you.” They are back where they meet. “I am glad you took a chance Claire.”

“I am too. Glad you did too “

He takes her hands and kisses their backs. “Until Sunday.”

“Yes. I will text you. “

“Good. Recall don't believe what Google says about me.”

“I won't.” On impulse, she stands on her toes and kisses his cheek. “Goodbye for now Jamie.”

“Good bye Claire.”

[renee-writer]

The Contract Chapter 47 Wedding Announced

“Are we telling folks or letting them discover our new jewelry?” Jamie asks. They are both heading back to work today.

“Let's see if they notice. If not, we will tell them.” He smiles at her. At his wife. She is a miracle. Her and the bairn.

“You call me right away if ye need me. I am just across the way.”

“I know. Don't fret. It will be fine.” She straightens his tie. “It is a joyful thing.”

“Aye to most.”

“You said he promised to do better.”

“Aye. He did. I just fear a marriage may push him over the edge.” He runs his hand through his hair, messing up the curls his wife had carefully soothed earlier. “Och, dinna fash. It will all work out.”

“I know it will. I trust our love. There is two of us now.” He smiles and gently kisses her.

“Nae Sassanech. Three.” His hands cradle Evan

“Right. Three. And a cord of three strings is not easily broken.”

“Quoting the bible suits ye. Are ye ready?”

“Yes.”

She is soon behind her desk. She is working on paperwork when Geillis comes in.

“Good morning. How is the bairn?”

“The baby is good. As is the mum.”

“Verra good. Here are the reports from yesterday. Nothing major.” She reaches for them with her left hand and Geillis gasps. “But ye have something to report.”

Claire grins. “Yes. Jamie and I were married yesterday.”

“Ye wee minx. And ye dinna invite me?”

“We didn't invite anyone. We wanted it just us. But, you will be invited to the church ceremony after the baby comes.”

“Weel that is alright then. How did all this come about? You weren’t even engaged the last time I saw ye. Or were ye?”

“We weren’t. He—well he proposed after we had made love.”

“Oh please tell me he was naked!”

“Geillis Duncan!”

“Hey. Ye have a husband and a bairn on the way, I am not even dating. I must live vicariously through ye.”

“Anyway, we decided their was no point in waiting and went to the register the next day. Yesterday.”

“Ye should be on yer honeymoon.”

“We will after.” She rubs her stomach were Evan moves and stretches.

“Aye. Are ye happy Claire?”

“Happy then I ever thought I would be.”

“I am sae glad. Ye deserve it.”

“Jamie lad, production in field 3 is a bit down but field 4 os making up for it. We dinna ken why.I have ordered soil testing.” Murtagh walks in and hands him the report.

“Thank ye. The soil should tell us.”

“Ye look verra happy. The days off agreed with ye.”

“They did.”

“Look, I am really trying. I ken ye love her and—”he stops dead, noticing the ring.” Christ, ye married her!”

“Aye. I did.”

“Married! Why? Ye were already living with her. The bairn will have yer name. I dinna see the point—”

“In marrying the woman I love. The mam of my child? Ye dinna see the point in that?”

“I—look ye had time. Time to make sure she is who she says she is. Time—”

“Murtagh, ye ken I love ye. I ken ye feel the same. But, I must warn ye, Claire carries my child and my name. She is family. Ye can except that or nae but it wilna be changing. If ye speak evil of her in my presence, I wilna be taking it well.”

“She is yer wife. I will respect that.”

“Thank ye. I promise ye I ken her heart. She is exactly who she presents herself tae be.”

“Lass, I have a gift for the bairn.” Glenda walks in after Geillis leaves.

“How sweet. You didn't have too.”

“The child is family.” She states broken no arguments. She hands her a bag and she pulls out a esquist soft tarden blanket. “Tis the Fraser colors. Jamie had one just like it when he was a wean. Tis a family tradition. I wasn’t sure the lad would remember. Tis us to us women to keep the traditions alive.”

“Oh Glenda! It is beautiful. We will wrap h--- err the baby up in it on the way home.”

“Good.” Claire lifts it up to get a better look at the design and Glenda gets a look at her left hand.

“I am glad ye like it Mistress Fraser.” she says with a smile.

“Oh yes we..”

“I am glad. Congratulations Claire. Ye two are perfect for each other. I have ne' seen two people more in love.”

“Thank you. I never thought I would find him. The one who I can't live without.”

“Jamie's da told him that he would meet the One. The person his soul calls out for. He found her in ye and it is happy I am tae see it. Ye two will get through everything together as long as ye stick together.”

“Glenda, the baby. It has Down's.”

“I ken lass. God is gifting ye with a special child because He ken's together ye can handle it. Ye will also have the support of everyone here. It will be alright.”

“Ye are an angel Glenda.”

“Nae lass. Just an auld woman who kens a lot.” She squeezes her hand and gets up,” I've work tae do but am here if ye need me.”

“Thank you. For the blanket, the advise, and the congratulations.”

“Ye are welcome Mistress Fraser.”

[renee-writer]

From Gladiator to Knight Chapter 5 Tea or Coffee?

Jamie and Claire Merlin

Jamie

I am surprised at how dark it is. I've just enough night sight to see where to lay Pollux down where Merlin indicates. I lay him against the wall so Tianna won't be against the cold stone. Claire does the same with Tianna. They instinctively curl towards each other. Snuggling. I smile at my wife.

Claire

Seeing them snuggle reminds me of the early days with Jamie. How even in the midst of the unknown terrors of the past, I had found comfort in his arms as we rode toward Castle Leoch. Merlin pulls me out of my thoughts when he asks if we want coffee or tea.

"You have tea and coffee?" I ask, my voice reflecting the shock I feel.

"I do. And sugar." He moves a stone out of the wall and pulls a small cloth bag out.

Jamie

Coffee! I understand my wife's shock. I have heard of it, but, it is much to dear for those, other then the verra rich, to have. And sugar, weel, it is for special occasion baking only.

"How?" I ask him.

"I am a fellow traveler. Tea or coffee?"

This situation calls for something a bit stronger. "Whisky?" I ask hopefully.

"Sorry. That I do not have." With a disappointed sigh, I accept tea. It will warm my wame anyway.

Merlin

These four. And all have different stories. Claire, the more modern. Jamie, a Highland warrior. And Pollux and Tianna, Romans from the last time they went through. Hmmm.

Claire

"Oh God," I half moan," I've not had coffee since the end of the war."

"That would be WW2."

"Yes?" He gets up to check if any servants linger outside the doors before shutting them. "How did you..?"

"Your story first." He insists. So I talk of Frank, of a intrupted second honeymoon. Of the call of the stones. Of redcoats, Murtagh, a cabin, Jamie. The ride back to Castle Leoch.

Jamie

"And what did you think of her? Did you worry she was a fairy or witch?" Merlin asks.

"Aye, at first. Then I had to marry her. Make her a Scot, ye ken, to keep her safe from the redcoat captain, a verra evil, cruel man. An ancestor of her first husband." I stop to gaze at my wife recalling the wedding and wedding night. With a flush, I turn back to the story. "Then the wee fool, gets involved in a witch trial. After I rescue her, she tells me all. At first, I believe her mad. But the more she talks, and, there be a deep trust between us. It has been there from the start. So, I need to take her back to the stones. Back to her time." I end with a chuckle. We can't be farther away from her time and mine.

Claire

"I thought that is what I wanted. But, once we were there, the thought of leaving Jamie. Of an eternal seperation from him. I grabbed him in the final seconds. And we both went through."

"Landed in Rome?"

"Yes. My first thought was rather Christ still walked the earth. We were captured. Sold as slaves. It was how I meet Tianna. She spoke English and Latin. Helped the translation. I can't imagine making it without her. I become Alba, white lady, a grand healer( I was a combat nurse in the war) Tianna my apprentice. We were eventually sold to the gladiator master were I was re-united with Jamie." I look down at the coffee cup and see a bracelet, in a pattern I have seen somewhere before. I don't know where, but it will come to me.

Jamie

"To have my wife back. So close but so far. I couldn't touch her in public, none of us could. The master's rules were quite strict. And that was good. Keep her and the lass safe, from all but one, Marcus, may he rest in peace."

"Did you kill him?"

"Nae. Naught that I didn't wish to. He saw sentenced to having his bullocks chopoed off and sent to serve as an eunuch for the Queen of Pompeii."

"Ahh."

"Aye, he is quite dead."

Claire

I am listening to Jamie tell the story of our time in Rome. An excellent storyteller he is. Even I, having lived the tale, am intrigued. I can tell Merlin is too. That is when I hear Tianna stir. I move to check on her.

"It is okay, luv. You are safe." I gently stroke her hair and she drifts back to sleep.