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December 26 Sara and Jake now had everything in line as to who was involved in each step of the plan. They now had direct and supporting evidence that Augusta was the mastermind behind everything. They added what she had done under her name on their list.

Augusta Tare
Attorney General
One of Irons’ many lady friends
Involved in money laundering, drug deals, white slavery, murder and attempted murder.
Order Hamilton Tyr to hire out the following actions:
To have Judge and DA killed
To have Doyle killed
Take Ian forcible from Custody and brought to her.
Had him give orders for Web to kill Coleen because they believed that she knew Officer Binger was involved in the death of Doyle because he was her husband’s best friend.
Ordered a sniper to kill Sara
Ordered the Bluegray Badgers to kill Sara
Arranged for the riot at Rahway Prison using Gallo from the inside
Threatened Fette if he didn’t do as he was ordered
Attempted murder of the Governor and the Warden of Rahway

Sara and Jake turned over everything to the D.A. that they had put together regarding the names on the corruption list also this information regarding Augusta Tare.

After reviewing the information the D.A. issued arrest warrants for the following names for involvement in: drug deals, money laundering, white slavery across State lines, gambling, fraud, prostitution, racketeering, election tampering, jury tampering, embezzlement, building code violations, loan sharking, extortion and bribery and attempted murder charges.

Several teams of Officers were sent out to arrest the follow individuals.

Lt. Governor J. Del
State Senators Caps and Senator Wide
Circuit Court Judge Loans
Drug and Alcohol Administrator- Mr. Tads
Development Corporation- Mr. Blocks
Planning Commission- Mr. Keys
Transportation Dept of (FAA/ Flight Service)-Mr. Bungee
Development and Planning Division- Mr. Bowls
Management and Budget- Mr. Books
Construction Codes- Mr. Fryers
Bureau of Elections- Mr. Polls
Department of Labor- Mr. Union
Liquor Control Commission- Mr. Screws
Building Inspectors- Mr. Nails
Secretary of Defense- Mr. Gunny
Secretary of Commerce- Mr. Harvests
Secretary of Labor- Mr. Dues
House of Representative Rissole
Aviation Administrator- Mr. Sticks
US District Court Judge Tables
Federal Communications Commission- Mr. Calls
Post Office worker- Mr. Stamps
Secret Service- Marx Cases and Hamilton Tyr
Treasury Dept./Internal Revenue Service- Mr. Monies

Sara, Jake and the rest of the Detectives were busy for the next three days interviewing those arrested.

^^^^

At the prison the next several day’s routine proceeded normally. Ian spent most of the days in his cell either sleeping, dreaming of the times that Sara touched him so tenderly and of watching her from the fire escape before she knew he even existed; or reading as many books as he could get his hands on. During exercise period Ian taught those who wanted to learn to lift heavy weight how to do it. He tried to keep his mind busy from thinking what was going to happen in just a few days and how Sara was going to deal with it. He had not been allowed any visitors and he was not sure if he wanted her to visit him anyway. It would be just too painful for them both.

^^^^

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Thank you to all for reading my story. I want to give special thanks to those who read and comment faithfully.

As a writer I would love to hear from all who read this story. Please take the time to leave a comment even just saying "I like it." would be great to hear.

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On December 30th Sara and Jake continued working on the paperwork regarding the interrogations of those arrested. They were absolutely swamped and she did not have much time to think about what was happening to Ian. She on one hand was glad for that but on the other hand she wanted to see Ian. After interviewing Carb again they found out that there might be another Officer on the take.

Officer Carb and Jared Stampe were charged and arranged, both were held over for trial. The four Officers who had been guarding them went back to regular duty.

After finding out is information from Carb they confronted Hamilton again.

“You have not been completely forth coming regarding everyone involved, Tyr.”

“What do you mean; I have told you everything I know.”

“If you what the death penalty to remain off the table you had better tell everything and everyone involved.”

Tyr thinks over everything he had said. “You must be referring to Mr. Keyes in the police garage.” Looking at Sara’s face he realized that she doesn’t believe him. “I forgot about him… honest. He was the one who called me and let me know that the D.A. had signed out a van. I took it to mean that Ian Nottingham was going to be transferred to the prison and I told my employer Augusta Tare. She said she had a plan and that it would involve a Mr. Tommy Gallo.”

“How do you know him this Keyes guy?”

“He went to school with my sister. She told me that he worked in the police garage as a mechanic. I figured it wouldn’t hurt to have someone who would be able to find out who took what cars out. And it paid off. What can I say?”

“Not much, I wouldn’t be too proud of yourself after all you did get caught.”

“You have forgotten one more thing. How did you know which prison Mr. Nottingham was going to be taken to?”

“A woman I am dating told me, a Ms. Lynda Tells.”

Sara leaned down unto his face. “And who would she be and I suggest you stop trying to play games.”

“She is the Court stenographer for Judge Crame. She likes to talk about the cases she records; it was just pure luck that she drew Mr. Nottingham’s case. Even if she hadn’t I could have gotten her to tell me where he was sent.”

“Weren’t you afraid that the Mr. Doyle that Augusta had you hire would kill her?”

“No! I made sure he got the message she was not to be injured or I would take care of him myself.”

“So you just used her to get information.”

He dropped his tough pretence and a deep look of sadness came over his face. “Yeah, basically at first I mean, she doesn’t know anything that I am involved in. You know if things were different I probably would have asked her to marry me. That is the rotten part of this whole thing. I fell in love with Lynda and I found out real quick, once Augusta has her sights set on you you’re doomed with no way out but death. I wish I had never gotten involved with that woman.” He said it with such venom that Sara believed him.

“Is that why you turned on her so quickly?”

“Yeah, she would have never let me go and lived… that is. She made that clear right after the first time we slept together. She had me in a trap and took pleasure tormenting me about it. I knew from the look in her eyes that she was not joking around. I was as trapped as and animal in a steel cage. Needless to say when she was displeased with something I did she let me know in some very painful ways if you can imagine. The woman is crazy.”

“Do you know why she wanted Mr. Nottingham?”

“The only thing I know is that he has some special abilities that she intended to use for her own personal reasons. I didn’t ask. I learned that if she wanted me to know she tell me. If I asked questions to understand things, she let me know in no uncertain terms that I had screwed up.”

“Have you told us everything?”

“Yes I swear I have.” He looked at Sara with total fear in his eyes.

The Witchblade swirled and bit her wrist. “I believe you have told us everything now.” They returned him to his cell.

^^^^

“I would hate to see what would have happened to Ian had she gotten her hands on him.”

“Jake I know this, Ian would have been a hundred times worst off than he ever was with Irons. She would have use intimate contact, if you know what I mean, to break and control Ian to do whatever she wished. And knowing that Irons kept him physically isolated… Ian would not been able to resist and she would have destroyed him.”

Sara and Jake went to the police garage and arrested Mr. Keyes. After interviewing him they went back to work on the paperwork.

^^^^

The Governor called a press conference to speak about what happened at the prison. He informed them that one of the prisoners brought about the release of himself and the other hostages.

One reporter asks. “Isn’t Building 11-M where inmates are housed that have received life imprisonment and where those awaiting death sentences wait until a cell opens up on death row?”

“Yes it is.”

Another reporter asks. “What’s the name of the inmate that did this and why did he do it?”

“I don’t believe that his name is important. I want you to know that all involve will be handle and they will not have an opportunity to cause trouble again. As for why he assisted I have spoken to him. He stated that it was the right thing to do.”

The first reporter asks. “Do you think things would have turned out as well if he had not involved himself?”

“To be honest… no… I don’t think so.”

A third reporter asks. “Considering this is an election year are you thinking of possibly granting him a pardon for his actions?”

“There are a lot of other things to consider than just his actions regarding this incident. That is all I can say for now. Thank you for your time.” The Governor left without further comment.

The Governor went back to his office and continued to review all the information he had been given regarding Ian Nottingham. Having read and re-read everything he considers issuing a stay of execution for him but is still unsure of giving him a pardon.

As he was considering what he was going to do his private phone line rang.

“Hello.”

“Hi Uncle, I just saw your press conference. Will you tell me the name of the inmate?”

“Hi Dakota, I don’t think that is any of your concern.”

“Uncle, do you remember me telling you a few weeks ago about what happen to Terry in a Courtroom. That some guy tried to kill the Judge and the prisoner saved them all. I just have the feeling this is the same guy. If it is the same guy we have a lot to be thankful for because we just found out that Terry's wife is expecting twins.”

“Congratulation, Dakota on becoming a grandpa. As for the other matter I can’t discuss it with you. I am sorry.”

“Thanks Uncle. If it is the same man I hope you will do the right thing by him.”

The Governor hung up the phone is total disbelief of what he had just heard. I can’t believe this; Mr. Nottingham not only saved my life but that of my nephew’s son and his first grandchildren. How can this all be just coincidental?”

^^^^

The other inmates were in their cells. When some saw the two guards walk in through the death row cell door they stopped and stepped to their cell doors. Soon every inmate on the block was standing at their cell doors.

An Officer Assay and Clement came to Ian’s cell after lunch. They knew what Ian had done and wished that they didn’t have to move him. That somehow his sentence would not be carried out. “It’s time to move to the holding cell now.”

“I see, am I to be placed in cuffs?”

“No.”

“May I take this book with me please?”

“I don’t see why you can’t.”

“Thank you.”

^^^^

As Ian stepped out of his cell, he kept his head down and placed his hands behind his back as he was accustom to doing with someone in authority. When they started to escort him to the holding cells. The guards were required to make the following statement as they started to walk. “Dead man walking. Dead man walking.”

JW and Jimmy started chatting what Ian had taught them about his beliefs while instructing them on how to lift the heavy weight.

“Decision of character is one of the most important of human qualities, philosophically considered. Speculation, Knowledge is not the chief end of man; it is action…” by Burnap

They repeated it over and over. The other inmates began to join in one by one.

When they arrived at the door Ian asked permission to say something to the others.

“Go ahead.”

Ian turned to face the cell block and raised his hands lifting his head to look at them. The others quieted to hear what he had to say.

“If your heart has truly been changed. I hope you will follow this saying even in here. Thank you for your support. Lastly, ‘Thy words have darted hope into my soul and comfort dawns upon me.’ By Southern.”

Ian turned back around assuming his same stance as before and they walked through the door. They went down several long hallways in silence to the empty cell next to another door passing one other inmate.

^^^^

“Man I thought for sure the Governor would have commuted your sentence to life if not pardoned you for what you did in the riot,” was a comment made by him.

Ian stepped into the cell and Officer Assay locked the door. Ian just stood there not moving. ‘So this is were I am to spend my last night alive.' Ian took a slow look around the cell not much different than the other except quieter.

“What would you like for your last dinner?’’

Ian turned around and looked at Officer Assay, “I don’t understand?”

“You get to order whatever you want to eat for your last meal.”

“It does not matter to me what I eat. Bring whatever you want to.”

“Are you sure you don’t have anything special you want to eat.”

“I am sure. Thank you anyway.”

He turned and left shrugging his shoulders .

“Man why didn’t you ask for steak and fried potatoes. That’s what I asked for? They made it real good. It will be nice to have company for a few hours at least. My name is Al.”

“If you don’t mind I really do not wish to talk right now.” Ian noticed the guard that sat in the chair where he observed Al. He also noticed that Officer Clement took a seat in a chair opposite his cell.

“I understand I was the same way. Still it is nice to have you here even if we don’t talk. A lot better than that guy Gallo that man never shut up. Threatened everyone, that one did.”

Ian sat down on the floor having put the book on the cot. He crossed his legs and began to meditate preparing himself for what was to come.

Several hours later he hear a commotion and got himself up on the cot. He heard Al from the other cell start yelling when the guards and the Warden came to his cell.

“I don’t want a die. Please I don’t want a die.” The man was crumpled up on the floor crying.

“I am sorry but it is time to go. Come on be a man.” They enter the cell and placed the cuffs and shackles on his legs. They had to drag him out of the cell and through the door.

“The whole time the man was crying… I don’t want a die.”

Ian watched and wondered how he was going to react when his time came. He hoped that he would control himself and have dignity. He had hoped that the Witchblade would show to him whether or not he would actually die while he meditated but He didn’t and neither did Atalaya or Ward. ‘The only consolation I have is that I have done the right thing and so I have at least my honor if nothing else. I also have the knowledge that Sara loves me for me.’ He picked up the book and began to read trying to keep his mind off of Sara and the next day.

^^^^

A few hours later Officer Assay came to the cell holding a tray of food. “I brought you your tray. I hope you like it.”

“Thank you I am sure I will.” Ian stood up and took the tray from him. He noticed that the other guard was no longer in the other chair.

“Is there anything you would like?”

Ian felt strange; he was not sure what Officer Assay meant. “If it would be possible I would like to shower and to listen to some music.” Ian had remembered what Sara had listen to the time he had drove her and she played the radio.

“Sure no problem. Anything else?”

“No thank you.”

Ian sat down and looked at the food on the tray. He was trying to figure out what it was. He had never seen it before. He tentatively took a bite and was surprised at how good it tasted considering what it looked liked. He finished it up then tried the dessert and found that he liked it as well. He refuse to let himself think that this would be the only time that he would be able to taste this food. Shortly after Ian finished Officer Assay came back carrying a portable radio.

“Here you go.” He said as he handed Ian the radio. “Did you like your dinner?”

“Yes it was very good. Thank you very much for it.”

Officer Assay looked at Ian. “You have never had that, have you?”

“No I haven’t. I don’t even know what it was but it was very good.”

“My wife made it for me. It’s called meatloaf with cheesy mashed potatoes with a Funnel cake for dessert.”

“You should not have given me your dinner. I do not deserve it.”

“Mr. Nottingham you don’t understand. My wife was in the Courtroom, for one of her college classes, when that man tried to kill the Judge and the D.A. You saved her life and that of my unborn child. We found out the next day that she was eleven weeks pregnant. It is the least I can do for you.”

Ian did not know what to say, he was stunned at this information. After a few minutes he said, “I am glad that I was been able to help and that she is well.

“I don’t think you should be here. You are not a criminal and you most certainly don’t deserve to die. I have seen many men who deserve to die and you are not one of them. I pray that fates will intervene for you. You will be allowed to shower tomorrow. I am sorry I could not get it approved for tonight.”

“Thank you.”

Officer Assay left and Ian sat down and turned on the radio tuning it to a country station. He lies down and was soon asleep.

^^^^

Jake and Sara went home neither one of them were looking forward to tomorrow.

^^^^

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Thank you to all for reading my story. I want to give special thanks to those who read and comment faithfully.

As a writer I would love to hear from all who read this story. Please take the time to leave a comment even just saying "I like it." would be great to hear.

Thank you for using the response thread for comments.

Just click on the link below.

pub92.ezboard.com/fwitchb...=141.topic

Here is the next part of the story. Thank you for taking the time to read this story. Hope you enjoy the update. Please leave a comment no matter how small. Stalking is encouraged.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Jake looks up from the pile of papers he is working on. “Hey Pez, what’s up?”

“Nothing really… just looking at everything we have done in the last few weeks and wondering if it will do any good. Here’s some coffee for you.” She hands him one of the cups and take a swallow of the one in her hand.

Jake leans back and takes the cup taking a long drink. “Thanks I needed that. You know Pez… I know it seems as though we have done it all for nothing but look, if you didn’t have the Witchblade and never met Ian would you be thinking this way?”

“No I suppose not. I would be on the biggest high for having brought all these guy down off their high horses. But I just can’t help it. What else does He want from us? Jake it seems like Ian and I have done this dance over and over. We never seem to be able to get over the last obstacle that stands in our way of being together. I just don’t know how many more life times I can go through it.”

“Sara I don’t understand all of this stuff. I can’t image what you are going through and I am not going to pretend that I do. I just know you can’t give up. I will help you in whatever way that I can, you have to be strong.” Jake holds up his hand. “I know it sounds lame but it is the truth. If you give up now a lot of things could get messed up and then what? I know it must be a heavy burden and it has cost you a lot Sara but it has given you something back.”

“I know Jake it is just getting to me that’s all. Thanks for letting me just blow some steam. I know I have to go on because if I don’t it could cost Ian his life for good this time and I don’t think I could handle that.” Sara sat her coffee cup down and began to erase the board. “At least I know I prevented Augusta from getting her hands on Ian that is the most important thing.” Having cleaned the board Sara picked up her coffee and went to her desk, sat down and began working on her pile of papers.

Jake watched her for a few moments. ‘What else do you want her to do? Just how much more do you think she can take… before she falls apart? She is just hanging on by a thread; don’t take Ian from her this time. I know I am only a temporary Protector for her but how am I suppose to help her through this if Ian dies. I don’t even know if I can handle what she will do if you don’t do something to change the way things are going.’

“Jake all things have not connected yet and they must be completed. That is all I can tell you. You are helping her more than either one of you realize.”

Jake went back to work not knowing whether to say anything to Sara about what had just happened. When he looked at her again he decided not too and went back to work on his pile of papers.

^^^^

Officer Tower came back to Ian’s cell with his lunch tray. Ian gets up and takes the tray handing Officer Tower the pad of paper and pen back to him.

“Is there anything else that I can get for you?”

“No thank you, I cannot think of anything.”

“I’ll be back later for the tray then. I hope you enjoy it.”

Ian looked down at the food and said, “I am sure that I will.”

Ian began to eat and wondered when the Warden was going to come down and what he was going to say. Shortly after Ian finished his lunch the Warden came down.

^^^^

“Hello Mr. Nottingham.”

Ian stood up. “Hello Sir, I understand that you wish to ask me some questions.”

Please sit back down there is no need for you to stand. “Yes, I have some questions but I also want to know if you have any questions you want to ask.”

“Sir, I have no questions. In about nine hours I will be taken through that door (Ian points to the door) strapped into a chair and then die.”

“Yes that is true. I would like to know if there is anyone you wish to have visit you between now and then?

Ian had thought about Sara but he did not wish for her to see him, here in this place. He wanted her to not have the last memory of him being locked behind bars unable to touch him. Ian didn’t want to ask Sara to come and then watch him die. He felt that it would be too much pain. He thought it would be easier for her. He flashed back to her seeing Conchobar died and he didn’t want her to go through seeing that again. “No there is no one. Sir.”

“Is there anyone I should contact regarding your…” For some reason the Warden was having a hard time with finding out what arrangements he wanted for his remains.

“If you are referring to what is to be done with my body after I am dead. I have no arrangement. I suppose…” Ian thought a minute of Mr. Shallnot and the Staff at the Mansion. “I suppose you could contact my lawyer and see if he would take care of the arrangements for the burial of my remains. If he doesn’t wish to, then I should be given a ward of the States burial as I have no money but ten dollars and I don’t believe that is sufficient to cover any type of costs.”

“Very well. Now is there anyone you wish to be here to witness your a…”

“No there is no one.” Ian could not understand why anyone would want to watch another die. It confused him and went against everything he knew.

“I have to inform you that I have had several people call and request permission to be allowed to be here. Your lawyer, Mr. Shallnot being among them. They all stated that they wished to be here to be a support to you. They do not wish for you to die alone without those who care for you being with you.”

Ian now understood the why of it and he dropped down to the cot and placed his hands over his face. He could just sense who had asked and tears welled up in his eyes at the thought that they would want to come to be there for him.

“Are you all right?”

Ian managed a weak “Yes.”

“I take it that you have an idea who these people are then.”

Ian fought for control and after a few minutes he raised his head just a little off his hands. “Yes I believe I do, I just never imagined that they would want to be here.”

“Do you have an objection to anyone of them coming?”

“No I have no objections. If they wish to be here then I have no right to prevent them from being here if they so choose.”

“Very well, I shall go and inform them that they will be allowed to attend. Oh… I do wish to say one other thing to you.”

“Yes Sir.”

“I still cannot for the life of me understand why you did it but I want to say thank you for saving my life.”

“Sir, I did it because it was the correct thing to do as I said before. You are very welcome.”

“I have to say Mr. Nottingham of all the inmates that I deal with, you are the only one that I truly believe does not deserve to be here.” The Warden left to go and make the calls.

The thought suddenly struck Ian, “Sir, I do have one question.”

The Warden stopped and turned back to face Ian. “What do you want to know?”

“Sir, would it be possible for me to wear my own clothes?”

“Yes you may, I will have the guard bring them to you. Is there anything else?”

“Do you have some type of fund for the families of guards killed in their duty?”

“Yes, why do you ask?”

“I would like to give the money I have to it. I know that it is not much but I wish do to that for them.”

“I don’t understand why.”

“I wish to be able to give something back to society… that is all.”

“I will see to it then.”

“One more thing, could you give these letters to whom they are addressed to?”

“I will be happy to do that for you Mr. Nottingham.”

“Thank you.”

The Warden turned and walked away shaking his head in disbelief. ‘I sure do not understand that man. I can’t believe that he has done everything that he was convicted of. He does not have the mind-set or the manner of a killer. I don’t think justice is being served in his case.

I wonder if his friends are trying to get his sentence changed. Mr. Nottingham has not asked once for his lawyer to see if anything was being done to stop the execution. I do believe if they are and he knew about it he would request that they not proceed.

I do have to say that he has a conviction and honor for justice to be served that I dare say most of the human race doesn’t have. In just the short time he has been here I have seen a significant change in the attitudes and behaviors of the other prisoners. I just wonder what kind of impact he would have if… well no need to go there is there.’

When the Warden returned to his office he informed his assistance to order that Mr. Nottingham be given his own clothes an hour before his was scheduled to enter the execution room. He thought of having his assistant call the people that wanted to come but decided that he would do it himself. He felt obligated to do this for Mr. Nottingham for what he had done. The Warden also hoped that the Governor would feel the need to do something for the man who had saved his life.

^^^^

Ian placed his head back into his hands and allowed himself to completely let go and cry. ‘How can this be happening. What is the purpose of this that Sara and I both must suffer this pain of separation once again?’ Ian curled up on the cot and wept silently as he had always done until he had nothing left but emptiness. ‘Have we not learned what you wanted us to learn must we go through this pain once again. Hasn’t Sara suffered enough in this lifetime to make her a stronger Wielder? Why are you silent to our pleas for you to give us understanding?’ Ian was met with only silence. Finally exhausted Ian slept.

^^^^

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Muse runs and hides in corner in fear of being attacked.

Thank you to all for reading my story. I want to give special thanks to those who read and comment faithfully.

As a writer I would love to hear from all who read this story. Please take the time to leave a comment even just saying "I like it." would be great to hear.

Thank you for using the response thread for comments.

Just click on the link below.

pub92.ezboard.com/fwitchb...=141.topic

Muse runs out posts and hides back in corner under table. Here is the next part of the story. Thank you for taking the time to read this story. Hope you enjoy the update. Please leave a comment no matter how small. Stalking is encouraged.
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Jake went home and changed. He went over to Coleen’s door and let himself in with the key.

“Coleen it’s me.”

“Jake… I thought we decided you were going to be with Sara tonight to help her, I just put Wade down.”

“She wouldn’t let me. She made me promise to take you out.”

“Jake I really don’t feel like going out and we don’t have a babysitter.”

“Coleen do you know that I love you?”

“Yes Jake I do and I love you too. How about just ordering pizza and talking?”

“I would love that Coleen. I just don’t know what to do? I am scared for Sara and Ian.”

“Come here and sit down beside me. I want to hold you. Wade is probably sleeping and I want to be with you.”

^^^^

At ten thirty Sara arrived at the prison having been checked through security she asked to speak to the Warden. After a phone call was made, Sara was taken to his office.

“Hello Detective Pezzini, what can I do for you?”

“I wanted to let you know that the person behind your life being threatened has been arrested and will be prosecuted.”

“Thank you for that information but there is something else behind your visit to me tonight.”

“Yes there is, I know that this is an unusual request but I would like to know if Mr. Nottingham could wear some items that belong to him.”

“He is special to you isn’t he?”

“Yes he is and I would like for him to be able to have these things with him.”

“What are they?”

“A simple ring and bracelet.”

“I see no reason why he should not have them. If you give them to me I shall make sure he has them. I take it that you also wish to stay and…”

Sara removed the armband from her wrist and the ring from her finger and handed them to the Warden. “Yes I would if I may and after he is... (she could not bring herself to say the word) I would like to be able to see him if I could.”

“I see no problem with your requests. I’ll have an Officer escort you down to where the others will be waiting for the time...” He didn’t finish. “Mr. Nottingham asked me to give you this and would you give these to the others also.”

“Thank you Sir.” Sara reached out and took the papers. She read the names on each of them.

Having arrived at the room Sara walks in to find Mr. Shallnot, Ms. Bondnest, Mrs. Pasely, Mr. Roweld and a few others that she did not know. ‘So Ian will not be alone. I did not know that others cared for him, I wonder if he knows probably not.’ Sara handed the one paper to Mr. Shallnot and the other to Mr. Roweld then she sat down opened up the letter and began to read what Ian had wrote.

^^^^
As Sara began to read the letter fresh tears welled up in her eyes. ‘Ian what am I to do without you?’ She finished reading it then wiped her tears away. ‘Very well Ian, I shall take the strength that you offer to me to be strong, I don’t know right now how I shall go on. I will go on for us to be together again and just maybe then we will be together to share our love together at last.’ Sara folded the letter back neatly and placed it in her pocket.

^^^^

At ten forty-five the Warden went to Ian’s cell.

“Mr. Nottingham I have some things that I was requested to allow you to have. I see no reason for you not to have them.” The Warded had the guard open up the cell door and he held them out for Ian to see.

Ian upon seeing them just stood there transfixed. He felt as though he could not move. ‘Sara why did you come, I do not want you to suffer in seeing my death...’

“Are you alright?”

Having his thoughts interrupted after a few moments Ian swallowed the lump in his throat and answered. “Yes, I just didn’t expect to be able to have them. They mean very much to me, thank you.” Ian took the ring and armband from the Warden then lowered his head closing his eyes. Ian began fingering them flashing back to the time he had learned the meaning of each one.

“I also feel that I should let you know that the entire prison has requested not to eat breakfast and lunch tomorrow.”

Ian looked up at the Warden totally confused. “Why would they want to do that?”

“Mr. Nottingham according to their requests it is for you. It’s their way of honoring you and saying thank you for what you did.”

“I don’t understand… I have done nothing.”

“Apparently they all disagree. You have somehow impacted every inmate here. I can’t explain it any better than that. I wish I could… but I can’t because I don’t understand it myself. The day after the riot, every inmate in the prison that had contraband turned it into the guards freely. That has never happened. You have to understand, we had just done a through contraband search of the entire prison the day you were taken to isolation. We thought we had confiscated everything that they had. We were shown how badly we were mistaken.”

“I appreciate you telling me these things, will you grant their request?”

“Yes I will. Mr. Nottingham you have a very special quality about you that touches everyone around you.”

“I do not know what to say.”

“You don’t need to say anything just accept it.”

^^^^

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The Warden returned to Ian’s cell. “I have to read the warrant now, as it is getting close to the time to go.”

Ian had his head down looking at the ring. “I am ready.” He closed his eyes again and swallowed hard.

“Ian Nottingham it is my sworn duty as Warden of Rahway State Prison in accordance to the Laws of the State of New York… you are hereby sentenced to death by the gas chamber for the first degree murders of 191 men.”

When the Warden finished the two guards stepped to the cell prepared to place the cuffs and shackles on Ian. The Warden spoke, “Ian will you willing walk to the chamber or will the guards need to put the restrains on and assist you?” He wanted to give Ian every chance to do it himself.

“I will walk there without resistance, Sir.”

“Then it is time to go.”

Ian stood up slowly, placed his hands behind his back and bowed his head; he had left his hair loose and some of it fell forward concealing part of his face. He wanted to remain in control and taking the stance that he had been required to use with Irons would now give him that control. Ian stepped out of the cell in his socked feet and was flanked by the two guards. They began the short walk to the chamber.

The one guard opened the door that led to the chamber. Ian hesitated until the other guard touched his arm. He then stepped forward and took notice that the octagonal metal box was painted a light blue. He sensed that it was six feet across and eight feet high. They walked through a rubber sealed steel door that closed with a large locking wheel. There were five windows in the sides which had curtains drawn for the moment on the outside. Inside the chamber was a metal chair with a perforated seat. Below the chair Ian could smell the sulphuric acid and distilled water mix and saw the pound of sodium cyanide pellets suspended in a gauze bag just above the hole.

They walked over to the chair and Ian sat down keeping his head down. He was keeping his emotions in severe control. The two guards began to strap Ian into the chair with straps across his upper and lower legs, arms, wrist and chest. When they finished the doctor came in and attached the long Bowles stethoscope to Ian’s chest and connected the wires that led to the cardiograph that would monitor his heartbeat and enable the doctor to pronounce him dead. Ian took deliberate slow long breaths to keep himself still.

When the doctor finished he spoke to Ian. “If you take deep breaths after the gas is released it will shorten your…”

Ian's voice quivered, “Thank you for the advice.”

The doctor left and the door was cranked shut. Having heard the door close and the locks click into place, Ian was now alone. It was taking everything he had to remain still and control his emotions. Tears were welling up in his eyes and he tried hard to blink them away. He took several deep breaths letting each of them out slowly trying to free his mind from the here and now to go to some place different. He thought of the meadow by the stream that he had visited with his family when he was young before Irons. He could no longer control the tears and they began to fall freely down his cheeks. He was glad that he had left his hair loose as it now shielded his face from view.

^^^^

The telephone with an open line was connected to the switchboard and a last minute check was made of the phone to make sure the line was open to the Governor for any last-minute news of a reprieve.

^^^^

The witnesses were brought into the viewing room and sat down. Some of them began to cry quietly after sitting down. The Warden drew opened the curtains and opened the microphone.

The Warden spoke. “Mr. Ian Nottingham I have never had a man who was a gentler, friendlier, more cultured or a better-behaved prisoner in my prison than you. I am personally saddened this day to be carrying out this sentence on you. Do you have any last words for your friends here supporting you at this time?”

Ian did not look up; he could not bear to see the pain in their faces. He felt each and every one of their pain. Having swallowed hard again, Ian tried to make his voice not tremble with the emotions overwhelming him. “I only… (he swallowed again) have this to say. Thank you for being here… (more tears fell) to show your support of me… and not allowing me to die alone. (Ian swallowed several more times.) I wish you all the very best… in life… I do not want any of you… to grieve for me. (Ian sniffed and took a deep breath letting it out slowly fighting for more control.) I am dying for the deeds I have done… (his voice cracked) it is a fair judgment… as I deserve death for them.”

^^^^

Sara had been the first to come in. She wanted to be able to see Ian as fully as she could. She hoped that he would look at her; that she could convey all her love to him in her looks. Sara was keeping a tight control over her own feelings. She did not want Ian to be distressed even more that what he was already. As she looked at him she noticed the ring on his left ring finger.

Sara flashed back to the time when ThoraSara gave the ring to ThorIan. The words that had been exchanged between the two of them, how that they had put their destiny before themselves and how they were promised that one day they would be together.

‘Ian we will be together I know we will. I love you so much. I want you to know that.’

^^^^

The Warden looked at the clock it was eleven fifty-eight. He watched as the second hand on the clock tick off each second. With his hand resting on the red phone hoping it would ring, wishing that the clock would just stand still and not move forward.

The tension in the room could be cut with a knife… no one moved… all were watching Ian. All were trying their hardest to convey their love to him. They knew Ian could sense their feelings.

Ian had his eyes closed tight trying not to count the minutes tick by. ‘Why are you doing this? Have I not learn what it is that you wished me to learn. Have I not yet earned the right to be with my love?’

^^^^

At eleven fifty-nine the Warden nodded his head to the executioner in a separate room to release the cyanide into the liquid. Just after the lever was pulled the phone rang. The Warden picked up the phone.

“Stop the execution! The Governor gave him a pardon!” The Governor’s clemency secretary shouted.

The Warden picked up the other phone “Stop the lever!” It was too late the cyanide had hit the acid mixture and the gas was released.

^^^^

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Ian began to think of all the times he had almost reached out and touch Sara when he had been watching her for Irons. Now he had wished he had taken the chance and done it. Flashes of memories began to flood his mind of the things he had watched Sara do and of the times she had touched him.

Ian didn’t try to stop the tears any more but let them fall. He no longer controlled his breathing so rigidly. He heard the lever drop and jumped a bit at the sound of the pellets hitting the acid mixture. A white cloud, steam-like fumes began to enveloping him. ‘If you won’t prevent my death than at least help me end it quickly.’ He began to take a deep slow breath in trying not to cough it out when the gas first hit his senses. He kept his eyes closed and head down; he could feel the gas burn his nostrils and throat then his lungs. He felt pain in his chest, shoulders, back and arms. As the spasms hit him he tried to keep his body from jerking. To just accept it, he did not want them to see the physical pain he was feeling. He breathed deep again and felt himself loose a little more of his control. He could feel his brain being deprived of oxygen.

He refused to look up. He did not want to see the pain in their faces especially Sara’s. He took another breath in but not as deep as the first two. He felt himself slipping fast into unconsciousness. He knew that after he became unconscious that after just a few minutes more he would expire. He thought ‘Sara remember my love until next time we meet.’ He hoped that the Witchblade would allow her to hear his last words to her.

He took one last breath and felt his head drop to his chest and fell into darkness.

^^^^

“Turn on the exhaust fans! Get that gas out of there, NOW! Get ready to get him out of there as soon as possible understand.”

The man immediately turned on the fans to draw the gas out of the thirty foot high chimney to the outside. As he did that, the doctor and two guards suited up with rubber gloves and gas masks to be ready to go in as soon as the door could be open.

They were all aware that they had only about nine minutes before he was dead.

^^^^

Sara watched Ian intently trying as hard as she could to communicate with him. She looked down at the Witchblade. ‘What have we done to you that you have inflicted this pain on us? Have we not willingly served you? Have we not tried to learn what you wanted us to know? Have we not earned the right yet to be together?’ She could see the tears flowing freely down Ian cheeks. She wanted to hold him to tell him everything would be ok, but would it really be ok?

She then heard the Warden on the phone and then him grabbing the other phone. She tried to focus in on what he was saying. ‘Stop the lever!’ “What’s going on,” she managed.”

The Warden having finished told them Ian had been pardon but that the cyanide had already reached the mixture. They were working as fast as they could to get to him and get him out.

Sara jumped out of her seat and went to the window and started pounding on it to try and get Ian attention.

“Ian! Look at me! Ian, come on look at me. Please look at me. You have been pardon.”

The others in the room were just shocked and couldn’t move or say anything. They could not believe what they heard and what they were seeing.

^^^^

“Hello Ian and welcome said the voice.”

Ian looked around and recognized the place as the plane of the Witchblade. He could see his body in the chair and Sara banging on the window of the chamber. He could also see a lot of activity by the guards and doctor. “Who are you? You are not the voice of the Witchblade. What is going on and why am I here? Am I dead?”

“No Ian you are not dead. All your questions will be answered soon enough. Come walk with me.”

Ian was angry and not sure what to do.

“I know you are angry because you do not understand but you will come to understand.”

Then Ian remembered where he had heard the voice. “You are the voice who came to me when Irons beat me for touching the Sword of Evanmori.” Ian looked at her intently.

“Yes Ian, I am. I am called Liannaka, the bringer of peace and hope. My brother is Ordmund, the speared defender. We are the twins of the Jeweled stone that Hool gave to Cadman; together we are called Omhghan.”

Ian was at her side is just two steps. “Then you are Evanmori and Ordmund is the Witchblade.”

“Yes Ian. Our parents placed us in the stones to help protect mankind from our older brother Drumonite.”

^^^^

The doctor was watching the cardiograph closely and listening to Ians breathing. It was becoming faint and he implored the guards to hurry once they got inside. The gas was finally out to the chamber after three long minutes. The guards hurriedly undid the door and came in starting to undo the straps that held Ian as fast as they could. The doctor brought in the small portable oxygen tank and placed the mask on Ians face; he then went out and brought in the gurney. It had been a total of five minutes since the gas had started. The doctor was not sure if they had gotten to Ian in time.

It generally only took around one to three minutes for the condemned man to lose consciousness and 9.3 minutes for the man to die. They were usually pronounced dead in around ten to twelve minutes. And after about half an hour the orderlies removed the corpse having sprayed it with ammonia which neutralizes traces of the cyanide that may be trapped on it. But Nottingham had lost consciousness only after one-quarter of a minute and his heartbeat had become very irregular after one minute.

After the guards got Ian unstrapped they placed him on the gurney. With all the movement any trapped cyanide was released. The doctor ripped open Ians shirt to listen to his heart and breathing. He was still alive but just barely.

The Warden had turned on the microphone so that they could hear what was going on. He also hoped that Ian would hear Sara and him telling him that he had received a full pardon and to try and hold his breath until they could get him out.

Sara told the Warden that she wanted to be with Ian as soon as possible. The Warden did not object. The others in the room were beginning to come out of the state that they had been in. They came to the window trying to will Ian to live because of their care for him.

The doctor looked up with concern written all over his face. He was going to do his best to save Nottingham. At one point Ian’s heart stopped and the doctor hit his chest hard and it began to beat again. “Nottingham you can’t died… you have received a full pardon and there are too many people who care about you. You must find the will to live.” Ian took a breath in deeper than he had before but his breathing was still very shallow as was his pulse and respiration.

^^^^

Ian had taken his customary habit of walking with his hands locked behind his back and head slightly bent forward.

“Where are we going? When will my questions be answered?”

“Ian we are going to meet Ordmund then we will answer your questions.”

After a few more steps they came to a gazebo where he was sitting beside a waterfall. “Come join me and have a seat.” He motion to the other two seats.

She sat down then Ordmund spoke. “You have many questions Protector and we will answer them but first you must answer a question for us.”

“What is your question of me?” Ian had refused to sit down even though he had been bidden to do so.

“What is your proof of love for the Wielder and your reason for wanting to live?”

“You know my reasons and my love for Sara.”

“Ian you must verbalize what you feel and your reasons for those feeling.”

“This is part of the lesson I am to learn… am I correct?”

“Yes Ian, it is the last part of your lesson.”

“Then I shall begin. I love Sara as meat loves salt. Without salt the meat is no good and is useless. I am the beast tamed by the beauty of her love. From first seeing her… my heart of hearts was stirred and I did not understand. She touched me as I had not been touched since I lost my parents. She found and reawakened what had been taken and lost to me. She gave me the reason to defy Irons. I love her not because of what she can give me but what I want to give her. She is my life without her there is no reason for living. She showed me that ‘Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will’ by Mohandas K. Gandhi

^^^^

They sprayed Ians clothes with the ammonia just incase there was some residue. Then they wheeled him down to the infirmary where the doctor had access to all his equipment. They removed all of Ian’s clothes and threw them away. Then they place him in a gown and moved him into a regular bed. The doctor then hooked Ian up to the cardiograph and to a regular oxygen tank. He had just finished inserting an IV into Ian’s right arm.

The Warden brought Sara down to the infirmary to see Ian. The rest of those who had come had asked to stay until they knew Ian was all right. They were taken back to the room that they had been in before.

The doctor was very concerned that Ian’s breathing and heart rate was not improving and was just about to give Nottingham some medication to help him stabilize him.

“Doctor don’t give Ian any drugs. His is allergic to them all, it will kill him.”

“How do you know?”

“I overheard the doctor at the hospital say that Mr. Nottingham stated he was allergic to all drugs.”

“I see. I don’t know what else I can do for him then but to just monitor him and hope for the best. I have to say even if he does manage to come out of this, I don’t know what kind of damage has been done. I have no way of telling whether it will be permanent or not.”

“I understand may I be with him now. Please?”

The doctor looked at the Warden who nodded his head. “I see no reason why not. Maybe he will respond to you.” The Warden and the doctor moved off to the front of the room to give her some privacy but still allow the doctor to see the monitors.

Sara went over to Ian’s left hand and took hold of it it was cold to her touch. She looked up and noticed that the doctor and the Warden had moved away. She also noticed Ian’s ring on the tray, she reached over and picked it up then placed it on Ian’s left index finger.

^^^^

“Do you have anything else you would like to add to what you have said already?” they asked.

“Yes I have more. Sara saw beneath the mask that I had been forced to wear. She saw the confusion, fear and aloneness in me. She accepted me for me even knowing what I was made into. She believed that I was better. She opened her heart to me and willing gave herself to me. Do not torment us any more for her to live and me to die. We have suffered greatly in our service to you and have put what needed to be done ahead of ourselves and before our love for each other in the past.” Ian kneeled before them. “I beg of you let us be together in this time.”

“Arise Protector for you have spoken well. Now your questions shall be answered. Ask your first.”

Ian looked at them both and then slowly rose standing as before. “Will I be returned to Sara?”

“We must first answer your other questions before that answer can be given.”

Ian ran his hands through his hair; he wondered what questions he was to ask. After several moments he remember a question he had asked. “Who is the woman who came to me when Irons beat me for touching you Liannaka? You told me that it was Sara and yet not her.”

“The woman who came to you… to comfort you in your torment… was the past, present and all future Wielders combined. Ask another.”

“Why did my parents die?”

“Drumonite knew you were to be the next Protector and he wanted to use you to find and control the next Wielder.”

“Will the lethal deadly part of me that Irons wove into me harm anyone?”

“Ian that part of you will always be there but you will not kill in cold blood. That training you will only use when given no other choice. You had the choice to kill the men who attacked and intended harm while you have been in the States custody. Yes?”

“Yes.”

“Did you?”

“No I only used as much force as I needed to take them down with as little injury to them as possible.”

“Then you have answered you own question.”

^^^^

After Sara placed the ring on Ian’s hand the Witchblade began to glow. “Sara, remove Evanmori and place it in Ian’s hand.”

Sara took off the necklace and placed it in Ian’s hand as she held his. Tentacles from the Witchblade wrapped around their hands and one ran up his arm to attach to the armband. Another embedded itself into Sara’s wrist and another into Ian’s wrist. Ian inhaled deeply when this happened.

Sara could see the tentacle as it travel up Ian’s arm on the inside and saw it attach to his heart and then to his lungs. Sara looked up at the monitors as Ian’s heartbeat began to get stronger and he seemed to be breathing easier.

^^^^

“What is your next question?”

“Why did Sara have to lose her partner Danny Woo?”

“After our brother found out who the Wielder was; he did everything he could to turn her heart. To take the closest person to her, Drumonite thought he would turn her; he underestimated her strength.”

“Why have you put Sara and I though so much pain?”

“Ian, ‘Grief knits two hearts in closer bonds that happiness ever can:
And common sufferings are far stronger links than common joys.’ By Lamartine.

“I don’t understand?”

“Don’t you Ian? What better way for two people to know each other than that they share the same bonds and go through adversary together. To grow together and stronger because of what they have been through together. Does it not make them more aware of how precious love is when it is shared with another?”

“I understand now.”

“Then it is time for you to return to your beloved, Sara. As was promised to you both… this is your time to share your love and experience that love completely. You have both served us well and we know that when the need arises again as it will… you will serve us again. Be well and happy Protector.”

^^^^

Sara watched as Ian’s eye began to move rapidly. “Ian, come back to me. I love you. I need you here with me. The Governor gave you a pardon you are free. Come back to me.”

Ian’s heartbeat began jumping erratically and the alarms began going off. The doctor rushed up to Ian. He took out his stethoscope and listened to Ian’s chest. He could not believe what he was hearing. His lungs sounded completely clear from just a few minutes ago. He checked the cardiograph and saw that Ian’s heart was beating strong and in regular sinus rhythm also that his color had much improved.

Ian turned his head slightly towards Sara and began to try and open up his eyes.

“Come on Ian you can do it, open your eyes and look at me love.”

Ian’s eyes slowly opened and began to focus. He saw Sara standing over him looking down at him smiling.

“Hi bright eyes, welcome back to the land of the living, do you know how much I love you?”

Ian licked his lip and tried to say something. But Sara put a finger to her lips. “Don’t try and talk right now.”

Ian blinked his eye in acceptance. ‘Sara my love, I am yours. We are to be together in this time.’

Sara looked deeply into Ian’s eyes and ran her hand through his hair moving it away from his face. ‘Yes my love it is our time together now in this life. You need to rest now. I want to tell the others that you are ok. I will return later, I am going to get you some clothes. I love you.’

‘I shall my love. I shall.’ Ian closed his eyes for several minutes resting in the comfort that he and Sara would now be able to share their lives together.

The tentacles had retracted from Ians arm and their hands before the doctor arrived at the bed to check on Ian. Sara released Ian’s hand taking Evanmori with her.

^^^^

The doctor looked up at Sara. “I don’t understand what has happened, it as though he was never exposed to the gas.”

“Doctor just chalk it up to fate or a miracle whichever you prefer to believe. Warden I would like to inform the others that Ian is fine.”

“I’ll take you back. I am glad that he is alright.”

“So am I, so am I.”

They walked back to the waiting area in silence reflecting on what had occurred in the last hour. After entering the room Sara told them that Ian was alright.

^^^^

“Mr. Roweld, they had to throw away Ian’s clothes and I don’t think he has anymore. I don’t want him leaving here in prison clothes. Is there a chance that he still has clothes at the Mansion?”

“Yes Detective, Ian still has clothes at the Mansion. I will be glad to give them to you.”

“Thank you, I will follow you there now if that is alright with you. The Doctor wants Ian to rest now.”

“That will be find with us.” They all nodded in agreement. “Thank you Warden for allowing us to be here for Ian.

“You are very welcome. I believe you helped Ian to return to you all. This has turned out to be a Happy New Year for you all after all.”

They all nodded in agreement. “Happy New Year to you all as well.”

“I will be back later with some clothes for Ian if that is all right with you Warden.”

“That will be fine. I will leave open instructions and permission for you at the gate to come in and be with Nottingham until he is released.”

“Thank you and Happy New Year to you.”

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The doctor let Ian sleep and when he noticed that Ian began to stir he went in and checked on him.

“Good morning Nottingham, how do you feel?”

Ian had reached up and removed the oxygen mask and licked his lips. “May I have water?’ he whispered.

“Yes of course.” The doctor reached over to the table at the side and poured some water for him.

Ian shifted himself up onto one forearm so that he could drink.

“I want you to drink it slowly.” He said as he handed the glass to Ian.

Ian took the glass and took several small sips, he then handed the glass back to the doctor. “Thank you.” Ian shifted again and laid back down.

“Ian I want to check you over to see if you have any adverse affects from the gas.”

“I am fine doctor but if it will put your mind at ease I do not object.”

The doctor proceeded to check all of Ian’s reflexes and found not one adverse affect. He then checked Ian’s vision and then checked his breath capacity. He could not believe how much air he took into his lungs.

“Now I understand what happened.”

“What do you mean, doctor.”

“Nottingham, it takes most men to succumb to unconsciousness in one to three minutes after inhaling the gas. That is only if they take deep breaths. You fell into it after only fifteen seconds. You took so much of the gas in so deep that you within three breaths were gone. I believe that if it had taken us just one more minute for us to have gotten to you you would not have survived. And I could not have revived you.”

“I understand. I am glad that you were able to get to me in time. Thank you doctor for all you did to save my life. I do not know what I can do to thank you.”

“Nottingham you have already thanked me.”

“I don’t understand, how could I have done that?”

“You saved the life of my son that day in the Courtroom when a gunman tried to kill the Judge.”

“Your son was in the Courtroom.”

“Yes he was and he was planning on asking his girlfriend to marry him the next day.”

“I do not know what to say.”

“All I know is that if it had not been for you I would not have my son or a future daughter-in-law come February eleventh. Thank you again. I want you to rest some more.”

“I will do as you say doctor. Do you know what will happen now?”

“I am not sure but I will ask the Warden.”

“Thank you. I will rest now.” Ian closed his eyes and was asleep.

^^^^

The Warden came into his office and began filling out the release forms for Nottingham. He had received a faxed copy from the Governor giving Nottingham a full pardon.

Sara woke up fully refreshed after putting on a pot of coffee she took a quick shower. Then having dressed in a pair of black jeans and blue sweater she put a full set of clothes for Ian in a small duffle bag she had that she used to take to the gym as she drank a cup of the coffee. Having finished Sara fixed herself some breakfast and she finished off the pot of coffee.

At nine Sara headed to the prison with Ian’s helmet secured to her bike. She could not wait to see Ian any longer, ‘at long last we will be together my love… we shall be together.’

^^^^

The doctor brought Ian in his breakfast when Ian awoke again. Ian sat up and ate it.

“Will I be able to shower in a little while? I would also like to be able to trim up my beard if that is alright.”

“After you finish eating I will arrange for you to shower I know you wish to remove the smell of ammonia from off of you. I see no problem with you being allowed to trim it yourself considering you will be leaving.”

“Thank you.”

“I spoke to the Warden and all the paperwork should be finished up around noon. Is there someone we should contact to pick you up?”

“No, you don’t need to contact anyone. She will be here shortly I believe. Thank you anyway.”

^^^^

Jake got up and called his FBI supervisor and informed him that the organized corruption ring had been taken care of and all involved had been arrested. He was informed to continue to work with Detective Pezzini until all the parties involved were convicted.

^^^^

At ten-thirty Ian was taken to where he could shower in the infirmary. The doctor gave him a pair of scissors to trim his beard with. Even though he was pardon Ian was still escorted by the guards as he was not released.

The guards gave Ian as much privacy as they could. Ian stood at a mirror and trimmed his beard. When he finished he gave the scissors to one of the guards and after removing the gown he stepped into the shower and began washing his body to remove all the ammonia smell that seemed to just cling to his skin. Having finally gotten rid of the smell from off his skin and out of his hair Ian placed a towel around himself and one over his shoulders. He was still very sensitive about the scares on his body and the reaction of those who saw them.

^^^^

Sara arrived at the prison and was processed though without problems due to the Wardens instructions. She was escorted to the infirmary where Ian had been taken.

Having arrived there, a guard informed her that Nottingham was showering. Just then the doctor came into the room.

“Hello doctor, I have brought Ian some of his clothes. Would there be a problem with him wearing them?

“Detective Pezzini isn’t it?”

“Yes it is, doctor.”

“I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be able to wear them as he will be leaving as soon as the paperwork is completed. I’ll take them to him; come to think of it I don’t think he was given anything to put on after he showered.”

The doctor took the duffle bag and took it to the shower room himself. Ian was just placing the towel around his shoulders wondering what he was to wear. He did not want to put the gown back on and they had not stopped to get him any more prison clothes.

“Nottingham I see I have arrived just in time. Your friend Detective Pezzini has brought you some of your clothes.”

“Thank you doctor for bring them to me. I was wondering what I was to wear.”

“You are very welcome. Detective Pezzini is waiting for you.”

“Thank you again.” The doctor left and returned to his office to finish the paperwork regarding Ian’s chart.

^^^^

Ian dried off quickly and dressed. He found that Sara had been very through in all of his items. He flushed a little when he thought of her touching his boxers. It was nice to be dressed in his own clothes including his gloves. He placed his ring on his left hand and then ran his hands through his hair tucking it behind his ears.

The guards escorted him back to the infirmary where Sara was waiting. They then went back to their posts.

“Hey there handsome, how are you doing?”

As he was being walked back; his stomach began to tighten up in knots at the thought of see and being able to be with Sara. He had his head slightly bent as always and had been unconsciously clenching and unclenching his hands behind his back. Ian’s face flushed as he was not sure what to do, he was a bundle of nerves. He was going to be free and was finally going to be able to be with Sara.

He looked at her shyly. “Hey Sa…ra,” he said softly letting her name roll slowly off his tongue. Not sure of what to say next he thanked her for bring his clothes.

Sara felt a hot shiver run up her spine as she heard Ian say her name. She could not believe how nervous she was now that he was with her. The look in his eyes was so enveloping that she lost herself in them. It was strange; all they both wanted was to be together. Now here they were and neither of them seemed to know what to say or do.

Before either one of them could say anything the doctor came in. “Nottingham the Warden just called and informed me that all the paperwork has been completed. The guards are on there way here to escort you out of the prison. I can honesty say that I am happy things worked out for you.” The doctor was totally oblivious to what was occurring between him and Sara.

Ian gained control of himself first and looked at the doctor. “Thank you for all you did for me.”

Sara recover slower. “Doctor, I want to thank you as well. I don’t know what I would have done.”

“Don’t thank me. I did nothing but give him oxygen he did the rest.”

Just then the guards came in. “If you are ready we’ll take you to be processed out of here.”

“I am more than ready to leave. Sara?”

“Yes… let’s leave here.”

^^^^

The four of them went to processing were Ian received his release papers, signed for his coat and ten dollars. They then walked to the prison gate. As they were walking they stopped at the sudden noise of yelling and clapping. They turned around and looked up and saw the other inmates at their windows cheering. They finished walking to the gate and walked out; the gate locking behind them.

^^^^

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Ian moved with her as she weaved in an out of traffic finding that she handled her bike as easily as he had done while she rode with him. He was glad that this time their ride together was one of pleasure and leisure. That there was no danger after them that they were fleeing but most of all they were not headed to Irons.

After riding for two hours Ian felt Sara’s stomach growl. He was accustom to not eating for many more hours so he began to look for a place to eat. Then he noticed a sign advertising food. He pointed to the sign and Sara nodded her head in agreement. After riding a quarter of a mile more they found the restaurant and parked the bike. They took off their helmets and shook out their hair then removed their coats and put them on the bike.

“So… you’re hungry?”

“I am a little and yourself?”

“Famished, I was wondering when you were going to get hungry?”

Ian smiled but decided not to say that the reason why he wanted to stop was because he knew she was hungry not because he was. He wasn’t exactly fibbing.

They went in to the pizza place and sat down. Sara pick up a menu and looked at it. Ian kind of just looked around and smell the air. It made his mouth water.

“What do you want Ian?” she looked at him.

“Sara, I do not know. I have never had this food but it smells inviting. Why don't you just order I am sure I will like it.”

She saw the quick flash of uncertainty in his face before he covered it. “Sure but you have to promise me to tell me if you don’t like it.”

“I promise.”

“You know I don’t even know if you like meat or veggies.”

“Veggies?” Ian raised an eyebrow.

“Vegetables.”
.
“Oh, I like both. I believe that I am going to have to be re-educated.”

Sara looked at him confused. “What do you mean, Ian?”

“I don’t know this abbreviated language that everyone seem to know.” Ian lowered his head.

^^^^

Just then the waitress came over. “What would you two like?”

“We’ll have a medium Hawaiian Pizza with two large Cokes, no ice.”

“Will there be anything else?”

“How ‘bout some garlic cheese bacon sticks.”

“No prob’. It be out in about twenty minutes. I’ll bring your drinks.”

“Sara, what is a Hawaiian Pizza?”

“It’s pizza dough with a tomato sauce, cheese, ham, bacon, and pineapple. It is really good. Messy but good, you may want to take off your gloves.”

Sara had already removed hers. Ian thought about it and then slowly removed his but kept his hand off the table. He knew she was going to ask why they were scared again and he didn’t want to discuss it. Not now anyway.

“Have you ever had soda?”

“Soda? I don’t believe so. I was only allowed water, hot tea and fruit juice.”

“Then you are in for a treat but be warned don’t drink it to fast. OK?”

“Why is that?”

Just then one of the other customers in the next booth over let out a loud belch and excused themselves.

Sara just started laughing at the expression on Ian’s face at the sound. “That’s why, if you drink soda too fast you get gas.”

“I understand now.”

The waitress brought the drinks to the table and left. Ian took a small sip and it tickled his mouth. After swallowing Ian looked at Sara. “What is it?”

“How do you like it?”

“It is different from anything than I have ever had.”

Just then the bread arrived and Sara picked up a piece and began eating it. She noticed that Ian did not take piece. “Is there anything wrong?”

Ian had been watching the others in the restaurant as to how they were eating the food. He didn’t want to embarrass Sara by doing something wrong. “No, nothing is wrong.” He reached over and picked up a piece taking a small bite. He found the taste very interesting and he continued to take small bites. After taking a bite he set the bread down and hid his hand.

“Ian.”

After wiping his mouth he said, “Yes, Sara?’

“You can take larger bites it won’t hurt anything.”

“I’m sorry Sara. It is going to take me time to change some things. You have to remember that I have done things the way I was taught for over twenty years, I had no choice as to how I did things.”

“I know it is just a suggestion.”

The pizza arrived and the waitress placed a piece on Sara’s than Ian’s plate. “I hope that you enjoy.”

“I am sure we will.”

Noticing that Ian had seemed uncomfortable eating the bread with his hands, Sara picked up her fork and cut the pizza and took a bite. Ian followed suite. He had noticed that the others were eating it with their hands and he was not sure if he could bring himself to do it. It had been hard enough for him to have eaten the bread that way.

Having finished the meal Sara paid and they headed back out to the bike. It had cooled down and they both put on their coats on and gloves.

“I think we should head back to my place now, it seems the weather is changing.”

“Sara, I enjoyed the meal. Thank you.”

“I am glad you liked it.”

^^^^

Holding out the keys Sara asked. “You want to drive?”

“You will let me drive your bike?” In complete surprise Ian brought his head up and looked directly at her.

“Why not, Ian?”

“You have never let anyone touch your bike.”

“Ian, I trust you. Now let’s get back to my place. We have something’s we need to figure out.”

After a few minutes Ian answered. “Yes, I believe we do.”

Ian got on the Buell and started it up then Sara got on. This time she snuggled right up to Ian. She felt his back muscle ripple in response to her. ‘So I am not the only one who has a reaction. I wonder if he had this response went he…’ Sara left off the thought not wanting to ruin the moment. She just hugged Ian all the more.

Ian looked down and smiled. He was now having a hard time concentrating on what he was suppose to be doing. He liked having her arms around him but it also disturbed him as he didn’t know if what he was feeling was normal. He shook his head slightly to clear these thoughts and focused on driving. He took his time heading back to Sara’s place.

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After taking a drink of her coffee Sara said. “Ok, now on to something else. I brought you your stuff. That reminds me; didn’t the Officers take the Sword Excalibur when Irons’ was killed?”

“Ean used a replica of that sword. I would not have allowed them to take the true Excalibur.”

“Oh, now I understand. Your things are in the bag over there. Would you like to get your other things out? But first, why don’t you take your boots off and put them by the door? I don’t think we are going to go out again tonight.”

Ian was glad that she changed the subject from off of him. He was having a hard time trying to keep himself seated and not flee out the window or door. “I believe that I will look them over later. As for going out tonight I should go and get a place to say.”

“Ian, I know you don’t want to hear this probably, but there is no place to stay. Remember this was New Years Day all the hotels are packed and you don’t have enough money to stay in one.”

“Sara I will be fine, I will find a place to stay.” Ian took the last drink of his tea and set the cup down. “I will need my bike keys please.”

“Ian I would like for you to stay here with me. I don’t want you to go.”

“Sara, it is not right that I should stay with you. I do not want to…” Ian could not find the right word he wanted to use. Just then the lights went out.

“What the devil happened?” Sara said as she jumped off the couch.

~*~*~*

Ian was already on his feet, he quickly adjusted to the darkness and using his senses to reach out into it. “Sara the power has gone off in the building.” Ian then looked out the window and noticed that the lights in the other buildings were also out.

Sara worked her way into the kitchen to find some candles and lit one bring the rest of them into the living room. Ian went over to the window and peered out, all he saw was several feet of snow.

“What do you see Ian?”

“Well Sara it looks as though I will not be going anywhere as you wished.”

“What do you mean?” she said as she came over to the window where she heard his voice come from.

“It seems that while we have been talking that a blizzard has hit the city and now the power as gone out from the snow and ice. As you can see the ice and snow have blocked the window shut.”

The Witchblade glowed. “I think that this storm has been arranged to keep you here.”

Ian raised his eyebrow and looked at Sara. She held up the bracelet that was glowing. “So it would seem. What do you suggest that we do now?”

~*~*~*

“Well I guess we either continue to talk or go to bed.”

“Bed?” Even though Sara could not see Ian’s face very well because of the shadow that the candle cast on his face, she was sure that he was very red in the face.

“You sleep in the bed and I will sleep on the couch.”

“Sa…ra I cannot nor will not take your bed. I will sleep on the couch.”

“Ian, there is no way you can sleep on it, it is too short.”

“Then I will sleep on the floor. Please do not say anything more regarding this. I am use to sleeping on the floor. I did it for fifteen years it is not uncomfortable for me.”

Sara could hear the strain in his voice, she also felt the sting from the Witchblade warning her that if she pushed it, that Ian would bolt blizzard or not. “Ok, I give. You win this round bright eyes.” She smiled and immediately felt Ian relax. “I’ll get you a blanket and pillow.”

“Thank you Sara.”

“You’re welcome, Ian.” After a few minutes she said. “Ian, I like it when you smile.”

She turned and went to the closet and pulled out a blanket and pillow and brought them over placing them in a chair.

~*~*~*

Ian had picked up the cups and put them back in the kitchen. When he came out he just stood and watched Sara knowing that she would not be able to see him watching her. ‘I want to relax but how do I do that.’ He watched as she went over to the book case and ran her finger over the bindings until she came to a book. She then pulled it from its place.

“Ian where did you go?” Sara could see but not into the shadows. “Are you playing hide and seek with me?”

She came over to the couch and began to light several more candles. Ian walked back over to the couch and was behind her. After she set the last candle down he spoke. “What is hide and seek?” he was so close to her that he could feel her jump.

“Gee Nottingham. You startled me.” She placed a hand over her chest and started to say, ‘why do you do that’ but stopped herself.

“I am sorry Sara I didn’t mean to do that.” ‘Ian you must remember not to do that especially in the dark any more.’

She turned reached out and touched him placing the palm of her had on his chest and felt his muscles ripple again. “It’s ok I just have to get use to it that’s all. I just have to remember that you are like a cat that can’t be heard.”

He liked her hand on his chest but cleared his mind and asked, “Is that what I am?”

Sara looked up into his face seeing the true question. “No, it is just a figure of speech. Cats are very quiet and so are you. That’s all. As for hide and seek, it is a kid’s game in which one counts and the others hide and then the one who was counting tries to find them.”

“Is it a fun game?”

“It can be. But I have a feeling if I were the one counting I would never find you but you would always find me. That would not be fair.”

After thinking about it a few minutes he said. “You are very right about that. I have always been able to find you. So I guess I have played this game just with different rules. I was to find you but not let you know you were found or that I was seeking.”

~*~*~*

“Let’s sit down.” A smiled played at the corners of her lips as she gently pushed sending him back sitting completely on the couch near one end. Sara quickly sat down next to him before he could move forward almost pinning him down. She knew she had caught him off guard and spoke quickly. “Ian I won’t bite I promise. I just what you to relax and read me this book.”

As soon as Ian felt the pressure on his chest his muscles constricted and he stiffened. When she sat so close to him he flinched unintentionally. He knew that she had felt him do that and he didn’t want her to think that he was rejecting her.

“Sara…”

She placed a finger over his lips. “You don’t have to apologize. I realize that you are not use to having anyone touch you. But I want to be near you. Please.”

Ian just nodded his head. The physical stimulation of having her so near was over whelming him and his mind would not form the words. After several minutes he managed to ask. “What is it that you want me to read?”

“I want you to read from the book you gave to me that contains the white rose.” Sara picked up the book and handed it to him.

Ian began to open the book to the page that contained the white rose suddenly they were transported to the different place.

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