Season 2 Episode 8   

"The Fox's Lair"   

   

WRITTEN BY: ANNE KENNEY  

 

 

 

SET LIST — FINAL PRODUCTION PROJECT — April 14, 2016

INTERIORS

LallybrochDining
room Jamie & Claire's
room Hallway
Salon
Château de BeaufortGrand bedroom Claire & Jamie's
bedroom
Corridor Dining

room Lovat's
study Chapel
EXTERIORS

Lallybroch Lallybroch

Estate Highlands
Beaufort CastleSidewalk
Gardens
Chapel
Court
Laundry
Court Stables
ABROAD

"The fox's lair"

 

FADE IN: 

AA1EXT. LALLYBROCH ESTATE - JOURAA1 

Claire finds Jamie, tense, looking at the earth, the rectory of Lallybroch in the distance, but her thoughts are turned inward, trying to figure out what to do now. Claire is almost frantic.
CLAIRE
Everything is happening. The Jacobite uprising... then Culloden... finally the Clearances... and the destruction of all this...

JAMIE
So it seems.

CLAIRE
We could go to Ireland. Or the colonies.

JAMIE
And what about Ian and Jenny and our nieces, nephews and cousins...?

CLAIRE
We... can take them with us.

JAMIE
All? And what about our tenants? Leave them at the "mercy" of British butchers after the loss of Culloden? No, but...

CLAIRE
Your name on this document calls you a traitor and if the British catch you, they will hang you as such. We cannot stay.

A moment of silence, and then Jamie has an idea.

JAMIE
We know what will happen if the Jacobites lose the war. But what if they won?

CLEAR
BUT... This is not the case. This is the verdict of history.

JAMIE
Have you given up on changing the future, Sassenach?

CLAIRE
After Paris? Would you still have the heart for this?

JAMIE
Yes, Paris was a bitter disappointment. But the future can be changed - You proved it. Tammas Baxter lives because of you. Paris was spared a smallpox epidemic thanks to you. Louise de Rohan will have the child of Prince Charles Stuart thanks to you.

CLAIRE You want to fight for Prince
Charles.

JAMIE
For my family and for Scotland. I see no other way. How about you?
Claire's shoulders sag. She leans towards Jamie, who puts his arms around her.

CLAIRE
Not one we could live with. They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, hoping for a different outcome.

JAMIE
I don't know who "they" are, Sassenach, but I bet they've never traveled back in time.

Claire smiled. They stand together, looking at the tranquil landscape around them, worried but resolute.

 

A1EXT. LALLYBROCH - JOURA1 

Several RENTERS arrive, including ROSS and KINCAID, with various AGRICULTURAL WEAPONS/TOOLS that can be used as weapons. A pony pulls a basket with weapons and SUPPLIES loaded on it. Preparations to go to war...

 

1INT. LALLYBROCH - DINING ROOM - EVENING1 

SHOT ON A SCYTHE. A MAN'S HAND CATCHES THE SCYTHE AND WE WALK AWAY TO SEE:

Kincaid takes the scythe of RABBIE MCNAB, who playfully attacks him in FERGUS. JAMIE, MURTAGH and IAN are in the room. Murtagh and Jamie inspect a pile of various rudimentary weapons: a few OLD MUSKETS, etc. - many hidden since the last uprising in 1715. Ian reads on a register.

KINCAID
(ref: Scythe) My grandfather said he slaughtered five of the British bastards with this one in 15 years.

JAMIE
Then he'll be ready for battle.

ROSS
Like us, Mon Laird.

Jamie taps him on the shoulder in thanks as they leave.

IAN
With Daniel Wallace and Duncan MacLennan, you should have thirty able-bodied men from Lallybroch.

CLAIRE and JENNY enter, carrying SUPPLIES.

JAMIE(
to Murtagh) I will need you to bring the men from Lallybroch to Kingussie. Claire and I will see you there in two weeks. Then we will go together to join Le Prince in Crieff.

MURTAGH
As you like.

CLAIRE
And where will we be during these two weeks?

Jamie assiduously avoids looking at Jenny.

JAMIE
Prince Charles sent me to enlist men and the support of my relative, Lord Simon Fraser of Lovat.

This surprises Murtagh and Ian, and arrests Jenny.

JENNY
Are you going to see Lord Lovat? Ask him to do you a favor?

JAMIE
I will ask him to help me preserve his country and restore the rightful king to the throne. He has a history of supporting the Jacobites. Yes, he has already done so.

JENNY
Oh, yes, and the British and anyone who could help him line his pockets and claim the title of chief of Clan Fraser of Lovat.

As the siblings begin to bicker with each other, Murtagh and Ian exchange glances and stay out of the fray. Claire tries to keep up with what's going on.

JAMIE
A position to which he was entitled, and which he has now held for more than twenty years.

JENNY
Are you defending the old nozzle now? Father must be turning in his grave!
MURTAGH
Maybe I should gather the rest of these men...

IAN
Most of them will come from the fields now. I will go with you.

The two men hurry to leave, happy to get away from this storm Fraser that is brewing. Claire stays.

CLAIRE
Who is Lord Lovat?

JAMIE/JENNY
Our grandfather.

This is not what Claire expected to hear.

JENNY
Who we only laid eyes once in our lives, when he came to visit us right after our mother died. Father threw him out before he could cross the threshold.

CLAIRE
I guess there's a story out there...

Jenny looks at Jamie sharply - will he tell her, or should she?

JAMIE
Lord Lovat tried to have my mother kidnapped and taken to the Monach Islands in order to prevent my father from marrying her. (by way of explanation) There was bad blood between Lord Lovat and the MacKenzies.

Jenny sniffs at the understatement.

CLAIRE
A situation that I guess Prince Charles is not aware of...?

JENNY
(to Jamie) It's not only degrading for you to crawl up to this man and ask him for help, it's a mad dash. The old fox does nothing that is not in his best interest, and never without a price.

JAMIE
(angry) What would be foolish, Janet, would be to let pride stop me from doing everything I can to save Lallybroch and Scotland and everything we hold dear. (to Claire) We leave for Beaufort Castle tomorrow.

He strode away, leaving Claire and Jenny.

 

2LALLYBROCH - JAMIE & CLAIRE’S ROOM - PLUS TARD2 

Claire quietly enters to find Jamie, still upset, taking off his clothes in order to go to bed. He struggles with his shoelaces and Claire comes to him, takes his arm, helps him.

CLAIRE
(carefully) Why is it so important that we get men and help from Lord Lovat? Surely there are other clans and lairds without disorderly family relations.

JAMIE
Winning the war is our last chance to save the Highland clans. The prince sent me to get men and help from my grandfather. I must have the confidence of the prince if I want to influence the way he proceeds to the rebellion.

CLAIRE
And you believe it would shake her faith in you if you couldn't fulfill her first command.

JAMIE
Je sais que ce sera le cas.

CLAIRE
J’aurais aimé accorder plus d’attention à Frank quand il a parlé des décisions qui ont conduit à Culloden...

Un long battement, puis il la regarde, très troublé, ayant besoin d’être rassuré.

JAMIE
Sommes-nous des imbéciles, Claire ? Après tout ce que nous avons fait à Paris, sans succès, pour croire que nous pouvons changer l’avenir maintenant?

CLAIRE
Quelle est l’alternative? Si nous courons, si nous n’essayons pas, nous savons ce que les Britanniques feront. Nous savons ce qui arrivera à Jenny, Ian et à leurs enfants. À tous les clans. Ils seront chassés ou tués.

JAMIE
Je sais que. Mais penses-tu que nous pouvons réellement le changer, si nous rejoignons le prince Charles et essayons de gagner?

CLAIRE
Oui. Je crois qu’entre maintenant et le seizième avril, tout peut arriver.

Sa certitude est un réconfort pour lui.

JAMIE
Ensuite, nous allons au château de Beaufort.

Elle le regarde.

CLAIRE
Il y a autre chose. Qu’est-ce que c’est ?

Un long battement, puis...

JAMIE
J’ai n'ai pas été complètement honnête avec toi à propos de ma famille, Sassenach.

CLAIRE
What do you mean?

JAMIE
My father... was a battard. Recognized by his father, Lord Lovat, but a bastard nonetheless.

CLEAR
and... Who is your grandmother?

JAMIE
Lord Lovat's kitchen lady. She raised my father at Beaufort Castle. I'm sorry Claire. I should have told you before we got married. It was cowardly of me.

She smiles, puts her arms around him.

CLAIRE
Jamie, you must know that your father's parentage makes no difference to me.

JAMIE
Well, it should.

She kisses him.

CLAIRE
Well, it's not.

She lifts her shirt above her head, puts her hands on her chest. Then she turns her back on him.

CLAIRE (continued)
Now help me with these shoelaces, and then come to bed.

 

3LALLYBROCH - JAMIE & CLAIRE’S ROOM - NUIT3 

Claire sleeps. The agitation of the baby in his belly, then soft voices (Jamie and Jenny), draw him into consciousness. She turns around to find the other side of the bed empty, the sheets crumpled, the blankets thrown back. She waits, hearing a door closing, then footsteps down the stairs. Then calm. After a moment more, she gets out of bed, finds her dress. As she walks to the door...

 

A4INT. LALLYBROCH - SALON - NUITA4 

SHOT UP ON Jamie, barefoot and dressed only in his nightgown, sits on the sofa by the fireplace, feet on the sock, legs raised,

forming a file for her sister's baby. She looks at her uncle with dark and attentive eyes. He gently strokes her cheek with his fingertip and speaks to her in Gaelic. His voice is low and thick with emotion.
JAMIE
(in Gaelic) ... THA OAIR AGAD. 's e an obair sin, a chaileag, gum fàs u làidir agas sona. Na dìochuimhnich...

 

4INT. LALLYBROCH - CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS4 

Claire at the ramp, looking over. The sight of Jamie and baby Katherine squeezes her heart and makes her think.

JENNY (O.C.)
The bairn could not sleep.

Surprised, Claire turns around to find Jenny standing next to her. Jenny speaks softly, so as not to interfere with Jamie and the baby.

JENNY (continued)
-- and neither did Jamie. He thought maybe they could keep each other company a little, while Ian and I slept. And he wanted to be forgiven.

CLEAR
Did it work?

Jenny looks at Jamie and the baby and suppresses an affectionate smile.

JENNY
This is a start.

JAMIE
(en gaélique) ... That your family is around you, all the time, even if we don't see you. Your grandfather and your grandfather, my brother Uilleam, myself, Sarah. We're in the wild, in the stone and in every sound we've seen this place...)

JENNY
You can talk to a little one in the same way as you can talk to anyone else. We can pour out our hearts to them without choosing our words, or keep anything behind – and that's a comfort to the soul. It's how we talk to them before they are born. You'll know.

Claire gently places her hands on her belly, remembering.

CLAIRE
Yes I know.

JENNY
A man must wait for the birth of the child. Then they hold their bairn and feel all the things that could be, and all the things that might never be. And crying without knowing which ones will come.

 

5OMIS5 

6EXT. LALLYBROCH - JOUR6 

Jamie and Claire prepare to leave. Their horses are saddled and loaded. Mrs. CROOK walks out of the house with one last packet of food to put in one of the packages on the horses, passing Murtagh, who is standing on the steps, keeping her distance from the emotional farewell between Ian, Jenny, Jamie and Claire.

SHOT OF Claire and Ian as they share an embrace.

CLAIRE
Take care of your Fraser.

IAN
Yes, and you from yours

SHOT OF JAMIE AND JENNY

Jenny wraps a wooden rosary around Jamie's neck.

JENNY
Take that. It brought Ian back from France.

Jamie is moved. He tries to lighten the mood.

JAMIE
(playful, re: rosary) You gave this to Ian when we went to France, and not me? And he wasn't even your fiancé at the time...

JENNY
Dinna makes me regret giving it to you now.

Then her eyes fill with tears and she throws her arms around her brother.

JENNY (continued)
If you don't come back, brother, I'll never forgive you.

JAMIE
Never is it really long.

Jenny looks at him like she'll never see him again.

JENNY
I know.

She wipes tears from her cheeks.

MURTAGH (O.C.)
And where do you think you're going?
They all look to see FERGUS, riding a mule, his belongings wrapped in a blanket tied to his back.

FERGUS
(obviously) With Milord.

IAN
You're too young to fight, boy. You're going to stay here with us.

JENNY
You can help Rabbie in the stables until Milord returns.

Fergus looks struck. He turns to Jamie and Claire.

FERGUS
But I belong to you. Isn't that what you told me, Milady? That I would always have a home with you?

CLAIRE
Yes, of course, but sometimes...

JAMIE
He's right. His place is not here without us, nor France alone.

Claire gives him a distressed look.

JAMIE (continued) (to Murtagh)
Will you bring the boy with you when you come with the men?

MURTAGH
Yes. If I didn't kill him first.

Jamie moves towards Fergus, brushing against Claire as he goes.

JAMIE
(quietly to Claire) Dinna fash, Claire, we will keep him out of the battle.

Now Jamie leans towards Fergus.

JAMIE (continued) (ref: Murtagh)
Everything is in your hands, boy. A good soldier must learn to obey his commander, as well as his general.

Fergus nods, then Jamie swings on his saddle. Claire gives Jenny one last hug.

JENNY
Take care of each other. And watch out for my grandfather.

CLAIRE
I will do both. Goodbye, Jenny.

As they walk away, Claire looks back, trying to memorize the place still untouched by the war.

 

7EXT. HIGHLANDS - JOUR7 

As Claire and Jamie head to Beaufort Castle...

CLAIRE (V.O.)
On our way to Beaufort Castle, Jamie explained to me what he knew about his grandfather. For the past fifty years, Lord Simon Fraser of Lovat had been alternately loyal to the exiled King James and to the monarchs sitting on the British throne. His personal life was equally infamous - Apart from numerous extramarital alliances, Lord Lovat had three wives, the first acquired by rape and the last by trickery.

 

8OMIS8 

9EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - DAY9 

An imposing structure, on the order of Leoch Castle, although a little smaller. Wide-mouthed gun holes gape at regular intervals along the base of the outer walls, and the keep has a stable opening on the courtyard. Two SENTINELS, armed with axes, stand on either side of the open door. They cast curious glances at Claire and Jamie as they approach, but don't move to stop them. Jamie nods slightly to one of them, who nods.

 

10CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - GREAT HALL - DAY10 

A servant shows Claire and Jamie in the large, dark, worn but still elegant room (by Highland standards).

SERVANT
Lord Lovat will be with you shortly.

And he leaves. Claire fidgets with her unruly hair, which has pieces of twigs and leaves stuck in it. Jamie paces uncomfortable.

CLAIRE
I wish we had the opportunity to freshen up a little before meeting your grandfather.

JAMIE
You look lovely, Sassenach. Except you have a few twigs in your hair...

As he reaches out to help her remove them...

MALE (O.C.)
Let. They suit him.

Claire and Jamie look up, surprised as the speaker comes out of the shadows by the window. It's COLUM MACKENZIE! And the totally unexpected sight of him in this place amazes Claire and Jamie.

JAMIE
Colum.

COLUM
I saw you enter the courtyard through the window.

JAMIE
What are you doing here?

COLUM
I arrived this morning myself. I am here to discuss the rebellion with Lord Lovat, as I assume you are. War makes strange bedfellows.

He reached Claire and took her hand, which she allowed, still stunned.

COLUM (continued)
I am glad to see that you are doing well.

Finally, above her surprise, Claire releases her hand.

CLAIRE
I hope you will excuse me if I find this hard to believe.

He looks at her, puzzled.

CLAIRE (continued)
The witch trials?

COLUM
You seem to be suggesting that I have something to do with your involvement in this. I feel like you were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Claire tries to contain her composure, knowing that Colum is not one to be contradicted, but it is not easy.

CLAIRE
Indeed, I was. Thanks to a message sent by Laoghaire, your kitchen lady, who somehow knew when and where the arrest was taking place.
A dark cloud of anger runs through Colum's features.

COLUM
A gross overtaking of his place, for which I had him beaten. I would have thrown her out of Leoch, but her grandmother, Mrs. Fitz, persuaded me that she would keep the girl under control. Now, I do not see the need to delve into this subject.

Claire glances at Jamie, but he focuses on Colum, trying to understand his game.

Is JAMIE
Dougal with you?

Another dark cloud crosses Colum's features, this one tinged with disappointment.

COLUM
No. It became clear that it was better for the clan if my brother stayed in his own domain. Best for him too.

Jamie studies Colum, trying to figure out what he's doing. Claire, as usual, goes straight to the point.

CLAIRE
But surely Dougal will lead Clan MacKenzie in the fight for King James?

COLUM
I had forgotten your sharp mind.

The door opens as Claire speaks, and a tall, 70-year-old man, dressed in an open shirt and slightly clean panties, enters. He is Jamie's grandfather, LORD LOVAT.

LORD LOVAT
So the rumours are true: Lord Simon Fraser's grandson of Lovat has befriended a Sassenach.

When he speaks, he exposes stained and neglected teeth.

CLAIRE
(apart from Jamie) Why do all those close to them have to be such bloody Scotsmen?

She composes his face into a smile as he approaches.

LORD LOVAT
But I guess you're your father's son, after all. Stupid to expect the boy to make more sense in choosing a woman than the bastard who did it.

Colum doesn't say anything - he never approved of Ellen and Brian's marriage either. Calculating that this man will respond more favorably to force than to deference, Jamie smiles at Lord Lovat and responds in the same way.

JAMIE(
sympathetic) At least I didn't need to take a woman by rape or trickery.

The remark pays off: Lord Lovat stares at his grandson for a moment, then let out a burst of laughter.

LORD LOVAT
At least you are not as serious as your father. Ok. Good.

He puts his arm around Jamie, who stiffens slightly, then moves him to Colum, leaving Claire outside.

LORD LOVAT (continued)
Enough breath lost on women. (to Claire, disdainful) Let. (to Colum and Jamie) It's time to talk politics with my grandson and my rival.

Claire is momentarily offended by his dismissal, but after exchanging a glance with Jamie, decides to keep quiet. She comes out with as much dignity as she can muster.

 

11EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - PASSERELLE - NIGHT11 

Claire, her coat tucked around her, came out to get some fresh air while waiting for Jamie to return. She stands at the railing, looking at the courtyard, lost in thought.

LAOGHAIRE (O.C.)
Maîtresse Fraser!

Claire turns around at the sound of her voice, and is shocked to see LAOGHAIRE approaching her.

LAOGHAIRE (continued)
I've been looking for you since I heard you were here.

Claire takes a step back, as if she were seeing an apparition.

CLAIRE
Laoghaire --

LAOGHAIRE
Didn't my master tell you that I was with him?

CLEAR
No.

LAOGHAIRE
My grandmother sent me to wash her clothes and help me where I was needed. I wanted to find you, though, because...

She falls to her knees in front of Claire.

LAOGHAIRE (continued)
I must tell you that I have changed, and I am sorry beyond measure for the horrible harm I have done you. My grandmother made me see that I cannot be at peace with God until I make amends for the pain my evil deeds have caused. I believe it was God who brought us here so I could do it.

CLARE
God?
She shakes her head and approaches Laoghaire.

CLAIRE (continued)
How many times I thought about this moment. I imagined what I would do if I ever saw you again.

Laoghaire lowers his head, ready for the shot.

LAOGHAIRE
You can do with me whatever you want, Mistress. It's nothing more than I deserve.

CLAIRE
I fantasized about all kinds of violent acts to which I would subject you. All end by lighting the pyre under your feet and dancing on your ashes as you promised to dance on mine.

Laoghaire closes his eyes, preparing for the next move. Claire hesitates, realizing that...

CLAIRE (continued)
Crainesmuir is the past.

She squats in front of the girl, so they are at eye level now. She discovers her feelings herself, even if she shares them with Laoghaire.

CLAIRE (continued)
I don't hate you. I'm sorry for you. What dark places you have inhabited in the hope of getting something you will never have. (Straightening) As for being right with God, You will have to find another way. I can't help you.

And she brushes past Laoghaire, leaving her on her knees, frustrated and anxious.

 

12OMIS12 

13CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - CHAMBRE DE CLAIRE & JAMIE - NIGHT13 

Jamie gets ready for dinner. Claire has just told him about her meeting with Laoghaire. She is in a good mood. Jamie listens, but is distracted.

CLAIRE
Perhaps God has brought us together indeed.

JAMIE
You're a better guy than me, Sassenach. I would have given him a good correction.
CLAIRE
Maybe. (drop for now) Will I join you at dinner tonight?
JAMIE
Oh, yes. My grandfather is not opposed to a little decoration at the table, as long as these decorations do not speak.
Claire looks at him, offended, without saying anything at the time. He smiled.
And he goes out, letting her follow him.

 

14CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - DINING ROOM - NIGHT14 

FIFTEEN FRASER, LORD Lovat's son, young SIMON, Claire [the only woman at the table], Jamie, Colum and Lord Lovat sit at a large table loaded with the remains of FOOD AND DRINK. TWO MACKENZIE ATTENDANTS stand a few steps behind Colum. Any resemblance between young Simon and his father stops at the surface. Lord Lovat is all gnarled bluster and threats. Young Simon is gentle, uncomfortable. Reserved to the point of shyness.

Laoghaire helps serve dinner, paying special attention to Colum. Laoghaire avoids looking at Claire, but her eyes continue to drift towards Jamie, not as changed as she assured Claire. He ignores it completely, but Claire chronometers everything. It also records how young Simon observes Laoghaire with obvious interest.
Jamie is addressing the assembled group. Colum listens carefully. Lord Lovat listens, but is distracted by his son's attention to Laoghaire.

JAMIE
... Every man in this room knows that for most Britons, all Highlanders, regardless of their allegiance, are the same - wild dogs better slaughtered than let live. And after three uprisings, they will be motivated to put us down for good. To save our clans, our country, our way of life, we must unite behind our true king, King James, fight and win.

The men around the table are inspired by Jamie's speech, but reluctant to be too enthusiastic until Lord Lovat indicates how he feels.

COLUM
We are fortunate to have among us a confidant so close to his son, the Prince. Isn't it, Lovat? Someone to give us an inside view of this holy rebellion.

The mention of his name caught Lovat's attention for a while.

LORD LOVAT
Yes, although I don't know how holy it is.

COLUM
Can you tell us, nephew, what support the French have agreed to give?

His tone is innocent, but it's a charged issue and he knows it. Jamie tries to put a positive spin on this...

JAMIE
They have already supported us by grounding the British army in Flanders, exhausting the forces they have here at home. The prince is certain that they will want to push their advantage by sending men and artillery to support the Jacobites.

COLUM(
concerned) So they have not yet committed to Prince Charles.

LORD LOVAT
Always an unreliable ally, the Frenchman.

Murmurs of concern circulate around the table. Jamie tries to reassure them...

JAMIE
We will welcome French support when it comes, but we need it. The Jacobite army already numbered nearly 1000 men at Crieff. A thousand Highlanders! Think! MacDonalds and Camerons and Stewarts and Grants - and more join every day. While the majority of British troops are still on the continent, licking their wounds.

This gets a positive response from the WARRIORS - even Lord Lovat nods, much to Colum's chagrin, and Laoghaire is delighted, looking at Jamie. Young Simon signs this and stands up impulsively, full of rebellious spirit.

YOUNG SIMON
I heard that the British offered thirty thousand pounds for the capture of Prince Charles!

The room becomes silent and everyone looks at him, including Lord Lovat, who turns to his son, his expression gloomy.

LORD LOVAT
That is, what?

YOUNG SIMON
(angry) The British see Prince Charles as... a real threat.

JAMIE
Will you stand with us, cousin?

LORD LOVAT
(leaning over) Or perhaps the British know -- as do the rest of us -- how many flows there are among the Campbells and Camerons. Men
who would sell their own grandmothers for half that amount.

Simon is stuck between Jamie and his father.

YOUNG SIMON
Well, I...

Laoghaire looks down, embarrassed for him, which only makes him even more agitated.

SEIGNEUR LOVAT
Pour trente mille livres, les Britanniques pourraient mettre fin à cette rébellion avant même qu’elle ne commence. Un spectacle juste moins que ce qu’il leur en coûterait pour mener une guerre.

Colum acquiesce.

JEUNE SIMON
Je... n’avait pas envisagé cela...

RACLEMENTS DE GORGE autour de la table. Claire et Jamie échangent un regard.

SEIGNEUR LOVAT
(dégoûté) Alors assis gamain ! Et dinna parle seulement lorsque tu auras« considéré » ce que tu es sur le point de dire.

Humilié, le jeune Simon s’assoit. Laoghaire passe derrière Lord Lovat. Rapide comme un serpent, la main de Lovat sort et attrape Laoghaire par le poignet, la tirant près de lui. Il regarde son fils, interpellant, alors qu’il lui parle.

LORD LOVAT (suite)
Apportez-nous plus de vin, ma belle. Et un verre de lait pour mon garçon. (à Jamie et au groupe, agacé) Assez de discussions sur la guerre pour ce soir !

He lets his hand slide down to Laoghaire's ass and gives her a pat. Young Simon, his face even redder, quickly looks away. As he sinks
into his chair, angry and frustrated...

 

A15EXT. BEAUFORT CASTLE - NIGHTA15 

Claire and Jamie cross the courtyard after dinner, heading up the stairs to their room. There are not many people around, but they still keep their voices low.

CLAIRE
I had the distinct impression that Colum was trying to use you to convince Lord Lovat to stay out of the rebellion.

JAMIE
Yes. If the MacKenzies of Leoch and the Frasers of Lovat stayed away, the small clans could follow and the rebellion collapsed.

CLAIRE
Why doesn't Colum talk to her directly?

JAMIE
Because my grandfather doesn't trust my uncle. Getting used is a much more effective strategy. I need to talk to Lord Lovat on my own, without Colum interfering to make his case on his behalf.

They have arrived at the door of their room and enter.

 

15CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - CHAMBRE DE CLAIRE & JAMIE - CONTINUE15 

Claire and Jamie come in, taking off the most uncomfortable clothes – shoes, neck coverings, etc. and dropping onto chairs.

JAMIE
It's a shame that young Simon is such an insensitive weakling. I believe he could influence his father's decision if he took a firm stand with us.

CLAIRE
(surprise) The man has nothing but contempt for this poor boy.

JAMIE
He's just trying to toughen her. Make him a viable successor to lead the Fraser clan of Lovat. You have to have thick skin and a strong stomach to be a clan leader.

CLAIRE
Public shame as a life lesson. Maybe Lord Lovat should write a book on how to be a great father.

JAMIE
(shrug) My father used it wisely. It was a very humiliating experience to have to lean over the door and get my ass hit when I had done something wrong. My father later explained to me that this way, sharecroppers would know that I understood justice - at least on the front desk side.

CLAIRE
And what do you think young Simon took away from tonight's little exhibition?

Jamie shakes his head, conceding it's not quite the same.

JAMIE
That maybe he doesn't want to be the next Lord Lovat...

Jamie's mind turns back to the puzzle at hand.

JAMIE (continued)
My grandfather had the perfect opportunity to say no tonight, and he didn't. Maybe Jenny is right. He wants something in return.

 

16CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - CORRIDOR - DAY16 

Claire, dressed to go out and carrying her empty basket, walks down the hall, passing the closed doors of the great hall, when she is surprised by the opening door and Lord Lovat, furious, PUSHES a frail old woman, MAISRI, into the corridor. Maisri wears a loose dress and her hair, black with streaks of gray, is loose around her shoulders. There is an otherworldly quality in it. She falls to the ground with a moan. Lovat does not see Claire.

LORD LOVAT
(to Maisri) You don't tell me everything! Auld hag, and I won't get it!

He returns to the great hall and slams the door. Claire moves towards Maisri, who slowly gets up.

CLAIRE
Let me help you.

Maisri looks up at Claire, her eyes filled with fear and apprehension. This makes Claire want to take a step back. Instead, she reaches out. Maisri takes it, his bony fingers wrapping around Claire's arm.

MAISRI 

Thank you, Mistress.

CLAIRE
My name is Claire. The wife of Lord Lovat's grandson.

MAISRI
Maisri. Seer of Lord Lovat.

Then, with one last look at the large bedroom door, she silently rushes down the hallway, Claire watching her leave.

 

17CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - LOVAT STUDY - DAY17 

A smaller, more troglodyte room. Lovat's private space. Jamie watches Lord Lovat walk around the room, still agitated by his interaction with Maisri.

LORD LOVAT
The seer believes that keeping secrets will secure her place here. This will ensure his head on a pike, that's what it will do.

Jamie waits, patiently, for the old man to reveal himself. Lord Lovat considers it, then...

LORD LOVAT (continued)
I bet your father painted a black portrait of my character.
JAMIE
He said little about you.

Lord Lovat considers this, so -
LORD LOVAT
He chose this fucking MacKenzie...
JAMIE
-- I will ask you to speak otherwise of my mother-LORD LOVAT
--the ignorant-opposing
me, her father. Twice. First when I told him not to marry --

JAMIE
-- And your kidnapping attempt failed --

Lord Lovat brushes his hand in the air, dismissing it as unimportant.

LORD LOVAT
The second time she was dead and buried. I was ready to forgive him. To make him my successor, despite the fact that he was a ... And he chose his memory, and preferred this place...

JAMIE
-- Lallybroch --

LORD LOVAT
-- rather than me.

This wound is not healed, its bitterness palpable. He turns to Jamie, his eyes narrowed, changing gears to throw his opponent off balance.

LORD LOVAT (continued)
Is that true?

JAMIE
What?

LORD LOVAT
That you have not sworn fealty to Colum MacKenzie.

JAMIE
That's what you're looking for, isn't it? My loyalty to you, in exchange for sending aid to Prince Charles?

LORD LOVAT
To be honest, I'm more interested in what goes with it.

Jamie, momentarily confused, then...

JAMIE
And what need do you need for Lallybroch? Tenants' rents would hardly be noticed in a place like this.

LORD LOVAT
What I would do with this cursed place would not concern you. I am the Laird and the warlord of the clan after all. I demand my rightful due.

JAMIE
If I don't swear an oath to Colum, who I know I'm a parent, what kind of fool would I be to swear it to someone who may or may not share my blood.

Lord Lovat's face darkened with indignation.

JAMIE (continued)
You frolicked with your housekeepers. Maybe others did too...

Now Lovat's mouth opens and he laughs so hard that he starts coughing and having trouble breathing.

LORD LOVAT
Oh, Christ, my boy.

Lord Lovat takes the cork out of a BOTTLE of WHISKY and drinks directly from the bottle. Finally taking a breath.

LORD LOVAT (continued)
Insinuate that your grandmother is a whore to keep what you want? Oh, you're my parent, no doubt. If my own son had half your courage...

Jamie blushes with anger and shame but holds on.

JAMIE
I will give you the same commitment I gave to Columbus: My help and goodwill, and my obedience to your word, as long as my feet rest on the ground of Lovat.

LORD LOVAT
You didn't hear? This is your father's precious estate that I want.

He leans over, looking at Jamie with bright cold eyes.

LORD LOVAT (continued)
How about this i: Lallybroch for the honor of your wife.

Jamie shakes his head in disgust and disbelief.

JAMIE
Go ahead, and when she's done with you, I'll send your maids to sweep away the remaining pieces of you.

LORD LOVAT
Not me, my boy. Although I took my pleasure with worse - your grandmother comes to mind - but there are many men at Beaufort Castle who would agree to put your Sassenach to the only use for which it is good. You will not be able to watch out for her night and day.

JAMIE
Oh, I don't think I need to worry, Grandpa. Because my wife is a rare woman. A wise woman. She is a white lady.

Lord Lovat's eyes widened with worry.

LORD LOVAT
La Sassenach?

JAMIE
Oh, yes. It's true. The man who takes her in an unholy embrace will have his private parts exploded like a frozen apple, and his soul will burn forever in hell.

He snatches the BOTTLE OF WHISKY from the table and throws it into the fire.

JAMIE (continued)
Like this.

As the FLAMES GROW in response to alcohol, he turns around and walks away.

18OMIS18 

19CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - CHAMBRE DE CLAIRE & JAMIE - NIGHT19 

Jamie paces after telling Claire about his meeting with Lord Lovat.

JAMIE
My grandfather has great respect for the supernatural, if he doesn't have anything else, but you'll still have to be careful in the next few days when you're not with me.

CLAIRE
He didn't seem frightened by that poor woman he threw down the hallway.

JAMIE
Maisri is just a clairvoyant, not a practitioner of the magical arts, like my wife.

Claire rolls her eyes.

JAMIE (continued)
She knew something she wasn't telling him.

CLAIRE
your grandfather is really a good pig, isn't he?

JAMIE
A straight pig that could soon own my ancestral home.

CLAIRE
Jamie, you can't seriously consider giving him what he wants.

JAMIE
I don't think I have much choice, Sassenach. The prince would not attach much importance to my views on war and the management of men if I were not even able to persuade my own grandfather to support our cause.

Jamie paced around, running his hands through his hair.

CLAIRE
What about young Simon? What if we could get him to stand up to his father? Declaring support for the rebellion?

JAMIE
Then my grandfather could send his men, if only to protect his heir. But after that scene in the dining room last night? (shaking his head) It would take more than a day or two to give this boy the confidence to truly challenge his father.

CLAIRE
(an idea that is forming) It may depend on what you use to build your self-confidence...

 

20EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - COURT LAUNDRY ROOM - DAY20 

Laoghaire spreads the laundry, his arms and heart heavy. She takes a man's shirt, pins it, then looks at it and presses his face into it.

CLAIRE (O.C.)
Is it Jamie's shirt?

Laoghaire goes around, sees Claire standing nearby and takes a step back.

LAOGHAIRE
I did nothing about it.

CLAIRE
I didn't mean to imply that you did.

Tears of frustration and anger rise in Laoghaire's eyes.

LAOGHAIRE
I have changed. I repented and asked God for forgiveness, and it worked. I thought he brought you both here to help me. But it was to test me! In the great hall... Jamie didn't even see me. It was like I didn't exist... Leave me, please! If you want revenge, you must go and leave me!

She grabs another piece of laundry, pushing the pins into it to keep it on the clothesline. Claire is surprised by Laoghaire's distress, which is clearly genuine though misguided, and she softens slightly.

CLAIRE
I think maybe I could... find a way to forgive yourself...

Laoghaire looks up, suspicious.

CLAIRE (continued)
But Jamie...

Laoghaire lowers her eyes again, her eyes filled with tears of frustration as she reaches out to another wet garment.

LAOGHAIRE
(In a breath) "Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you...

CLAIRE
(without malice) Jamie will never love you, Laoghaire. But, there might be a way to earn his forgiveness. To make him think of you without rancour.

Laoghaire stops praying and looks at Claire, suspicious.
LAOGHAIRE
And why would you want him to do that?

We
need Lord Lovat to provide men and weapons to fight for Prince Charles. We think he could do it if young Simon stands up to him and takes Jamie's side.

LAOGHAIRE
And what does that have to do with me?

CLAIRE
Young Simon is in love with you. Ru could use this to help persuade him.

LAOGHAIRE
Oh, no. Nor will I sink into the abyss of depravity. I will not give up my virginity for you.

CLAIRE
(exasperated) No one is suggesting you give up anything, and it's not for me, it's for Jamie. Not to mention Scotland and the very existence of your people.

Laoghaire looks at her, waiting.

CLAIRE (continued)
A woman has more to offer a man than her body, you know. When a man is in love, he needs the approval of his lover. He wants to please her. To be heroic in his eyes.

A beat, then...

LAOGHAIRE
and... if I do what you have in mind, will you speak to Jamie on my behalf?

CLEAR
Yes.

While Laoghaire thinks about it and Claire waits...

 

21CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - GREAT HALL - DAY21 

A bottle of whisky and TWO GLASSES. At the end of the table by the fire, Jamie is seated, but Colum is standing. He is in pain, but he is too restless to sit down.

COLUM
What is this disease that torments you and my brother? It is much more paralyzing than what afflicts me.

JAMIE
(frustrated)
I can't speak for Dougal, and I can explain how I know, but I do. You must believe me. The only chance of survival for us is to fight and win, and we must have men and weapons to do that. Neutrality will be seen as a treacherous lack of support from the winning side!

COLUM
You "know"? You're kidding? You look like a madman. History guides my journey in this area. History, not wild beliefs and wishful thinking. The other two uprisings failed because there was no outside support. Nor does this support exist today. If we do not send men to fight, the rebellion will melt like snow on a, and we will be left alone, as we were in the past. If Lallybroch's vengeful prize were not hanging before his eyes, Lord Lovat would see it too. He would accept neutrality. You've always been stubborn, Jamie, but never careless about other people's lives. For the sake of you and all those who are dear to you, do not make this deal with this man.

JAMIE
I promise you, uncle, that I will do what I have to to do to save these things that are dear to you and me.

 

22EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - GARDENS - DAY22 

Claire walks firmly with her arm through young Simon's. He is troubled by such closeness to a woman.

CLAIRE
It was so kind of you to volunteer to show me the chapel, Master Lovat.

YOUNG SIMON
I... Believe that was your idea...

CLAIRE
The gardens are so peaceful. Will you change a lot when you're Laird?

YOUNG SIMON
(guilty) I haven't thought much about it. My father is still a vigorous man... (attempted joke) Some have speculated that he is immortal... (embarrassed) And, as you may have noticed, it doesn't have much... Respect for me.

CLAIRE
(conspiracy theorist) My husband tells me that his father sometimes exposed him to public contempt to make him a better leader of men. Apparently, fathers often do this because they want their sons to fight.

Young Simon reacts to this foreign notion. They entered a grove just outside a small chapel. Laoghaire collects mushrooms near a fallen log. She looks up, as if surprised to see them. Young Simon freezes, unprepared for this meeting.

CLAIRE (continued)
Oh, Laoghaire, I hope we didn't bother you.

Laoghaire feigns surprise.

LAOGHAIRE
Oh, no, Milady. I was just picking mushrooms for the cook.

Claire pats young Simon's arm.

CLAIRE
I would like some private moments in the chapel. Do you mind waiting here?

YOUNG SIMON
Oh... if Mistress Laoghaire did not prefer her solitude...

Claire gives Laoghaire a look that says "encourage him!" Laoghaire smiled brightly.

LAOGHAIRE
Oh, no, I would be happy.

Young Simon finds it hard to believe this is happening. Laoghaire was a little less terrifying when she was more reserved. As Claire walks away, unwilling to look back, there is a long, awkward silence between Laoghaire and Young Simon. He doesn't know what to say.

LAOGHAIRE (continued)
It's a beautiful day isn't it.

YOUNG SIMON
Yes.

Another break.

LAOGHAIRE
Do you like mushrooms?

YOUNG SIMON
Not much, no.

Another pause, then, he makes a bold move.

YOUNG SIMON (continued)
I love poetry.

LAOGHAIRE
Me too.

Determining that the place is suitable, young Simon strikes a pose and begins to recite from memory "Lochaber No More" by Allan Ramsay.

YOUNG SIMON
(narrator) "Although hurricanes rise and lift all winds, they will never make a storm like that in my mind; Although the loudest thunder on the stronger waves roars, it is naïve like leaving my love on the shore.

 

23CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - CHAPEL - DAY23 

It's dark inside, Claire sits on a bench in the back, waiting, trying to figure out how long she should let pass before joining Laoghaire and young Simon. The side door opens letting Maisri through. Unaware of Claire's existence, she goes to the candles and lights one.
Claire stands up.

CLAIRE
Maisri ?

The woman reacts violently, then quickly walks to the door.

CLAIRE (continued)
Wait! Please. It's me, Claire Fraser.

Maisri stops.

CLAIRE We passed each other in the hallway.

Maisri looks at her, hesitating, thinking. She rarely has someone to talk to and yearns for this opportunity.

CLAIRE (continued)
Everything is fine. I won't hurt you.

A beat. Maisri's desire for company outweighs his distrust.

MAISRI Lord Lovat's sharecroppers do not like someone like me to be in the house of Christ.

CLAIRE
Why are you coming here, then?

MAISRI
This is the only place where my mind calms down. I don't know why. They say you are a White Lady.

CLAIRE
Yes, that's what they say.

MAISRI
What brings you to a church, then?

CLAIRE
(smiles) It's cold outside. I am glad to see that you are doing well after Lord Lovat was so you the other day.

Maisri tries to calculate how much she can trust Claire.

CLAIRE (continued)
Everything is fine. We are fellow travelers, after all.

Maisri decides to let his guard down again.

MAISRI
His Lordship is not an easy master. He asks me what I see, and fights me when I tell him things he doesn't like.

CLEAR
What you see... Does this always happen?

MAISRI
Often, yes. Although, sometimes, an action can change things. When I was still living in the village, I saw the man of Lachlan Gibbons' daughter wrapped in seaweed, and the eels moving under his shirt. I told Lachlan what I saw, and he went right away and made a hole in the boy's boat.

She laughed as she remembered.

MAISRI (continued)
Lord he was very angry! But when the big storm hit the following week, three men drowned, and the boy was safe at home, still repairing his boat. And when I saw him next, his shirt was dry on him, and the seaweed had disappeared from his hair.

Claire accepts it, the idea gives her hope.

CLAIRE
Can you tell me what you saw, just before Lord Lovat threw you out?

Maisri hesitates.

CLAIRE (continued) I promise you, I won't tell her you told me.
MAISRI (de)
He stood there in front of the
fire in his office, but it was
daylight. A man stood behind him, still like a tree,
his face covered
in black. And on the face of his
lordship fell the shadow
of an axe.

CLAIRE
If you told him, couldn't
he change his behavior? Maybe
change the outcome?

BUT
YES. Or he could just kill the messenger.

LAOGHAIRE (O.C.)
(call) Milady! Mistress Claire! Where are you?

Claire turns around to call Laoghaire.

CLAIRE
I'm coming right away.

When she turned around, Maisri slipped through the side door.

 

24EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - CHAPEL - DAY24 

Claire comes out of the chapel. Laoghaire waits a few meters from the door. There is no sign of young Simon.

CLAIRE
Where is young Simon?

LAOGHAIRE
He ran away like a little mouse.

CLAIRE
What did you do?

LAOGHAIRE
(defensive) Everything you said! I flattered him, and then I told him how much I admired a man who thought for himself, who made decisions. Then I opened my cleavage a little.

CLAIRE
I told you it wasn't about sex! No wonder he ran away.

LAOGHAIRE
Well, apart from reciting verses, he didn't do much to hold the conversation.

Frustrated, Claire gives the girl a withered look and walks away, leaving Laoghaire angry and distressed.

 

25EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - STABLES - NIGHT25 

Claire finds Jamie grooming her DONAS horse.

CLAIRE
I thought I could find you here.

JAMIE
More and more these days, I think I'd rather be a beast.

CLAIRE
Maybe you will come back as a dela in another life.

JAMIE
Catholics don't believe in such things, Sassenach.

CLAIRE
I didn't believe in time travel, but here I am... No luck with Colum, I guess.

JAMIE
No. And you with young Simon?

Claire shakes her head.

CLAIRE
I foolishly relied on a third party. It's a long and useless story now. I found out what Maisri wouldn't say to Lord Lovat, though.

JAMIE
(interested) Oh yes?

CLAIRE
Mmmm. She saw his death at the hands of an executioner.

JAMIE
The death of a traitor. I guess she didn't tell you if the executioner was in the service of King George or King James?

Good question.

CLAIRE
She didn't say anything.

Jamie sighs, putting down the brush.

JAMIE
I promised Colum that I would do what I had to do to save the Highlanders. And that's what I have to do.

CLAIRE
That's too much, Jamie. Let's go to Prince Charles with Lallybroch's men.

JAMIE
I don't want to join Prince Charles with a failure. And it seems that I can't get my grandfather's men without giving him my land. So unless you plan to declare yourself a visitor of the future and describe what you know will happen if we fight and win, I don't think I have much choice.

He kisses her on the head and walks out. She watches him leave, thinking about what he just said, and then follows him.

 

26CHÂTEAU INTERNATIONAL DE BEAUFORT - DINING ROOM - NIGHT26 

SQUEEZED ON A SMALL PILE OF LEGAL DOCUMENTS on the table. Dinner dishes have been set aside, Colum's guests, servants and attendants, including young Simon and Laoghaire, stand around the table like spectators in a high-stakes poker game.

Seated are Jamie, Colum and Lord Lovat. Claire stands on one side and just behind Jamie. She holds a glass of wine. Lovat lays his hands on the legal documents.

LORD LOVAT
I asked my secretary to draw up a neutrality pact between the Frasers of Lovat and the MacKenzies of Leoch.

Colum sits down, relieved. Jamie glances at Claire, confused. Then Lovat, his eyes shining with malice and defiance, SLIDES the document to one side, exposing ANOTHER LEGAL DOCUMENT.

LORD LOVAT (continued) (to Jamie)
I also asked him to prepare a deed of Sasine for the estate of Lallybrach, assigning me the property. Sign it, and thou shalt arude thy men for King James. Don't sign it, and I agree with neutrality with MacKenzie here.

He sits down, enjoying it.

LORD LOVAT (continued)
Which one do you choose?

Seeing his advantage slip away, Colum takes a shot that he believes will provoke Lovat.

COLUM
You will let this boy - not even your recognized heir - decide the fate of the Lovat Clan?

Lovat turns his gaze to Colum.

LORD LOVAT
I made this decision. The boy is just an obstacle that stands in my way... (to Jamie) What will it be, obstacle?

COLUM
Don't be a fool, Jamie!

A beat, then Jamie, feeling trapped, reaches out to the pen.

JAMIE
I do this to ensure the future safety of my family and my people.

He's almost on paper when -- a glass crashes to the floor behind him. Surprised, the men look around and SEE Claire, her glass of wine having slipped from her fingers, LOOKING WITHOUT SEEING LOVAT, wide-eyed, lips apart.

LORD LOVAT
What are you looking at?

JAMIE(
concerned) Claire...?

She looks away from Lovat with great effort.

CLAIRE
(afflicted by Jamie) Another vision...

Everything lights up for Jamie - it's a trap - MURMURES run around the table as Claire's eyes are brought back to Lovat. They are expanding with concern. She sees something that no one else can see. Jamie stands up.
JAMIE
Claire!

LORD LOVAT
Leave it!

JAMIE
(to Lord Lovat) You will not give me orders on my wife.

Claire rears up, her eyes roll back in her head, then she faints, Jamie grabbing her as she falls. For a moment, the stunned crowd says NOTHING, then everyone TALKS AND MOVES AT THE SAME TIME as Jamie takes Claire in his arms and carries her on a couch. Lord Lovat is on his shoulder.

JAMIE (continued)
Claire! Clear! Mo nighean givn... Please...

LORD LOVAT(
terrified/urgent) What did she see?

Slowly, Claire comes back to her. She looks at Jamie, mimicking the confusion.

CLAIRE
Jamie...?

LORD LOVAT
What did you see, witch?!

JAMIE
Stay in the back!

COLUM
Ah, Lovat, don't you see she's pretending?

JAMIE
(to Colum) A pretense? You yourself know that she was once judged as a witch by those who did not understand the difference between black magic and the power of the ancients.

No more MURMURES around the room. Colum reacts, angry at seeing his previous machinations used against him.

Claire turns her gaze to Lovat.

JAMIE (continued)
You don't need to answer him,Claire.

LORD LOVAT
She does it if she wants to get out of this room.

Jamie stands up to face him.

CLAIRE
Everything is fine, Jamie. (to Lord Lovat) I... saw you... Standing in full sun. There was a man... Behind you... He wore a black balaclava. (realizing, horrified) There was the shadow of an axe on your face.

LORD LOVAT
(to Clare, ignoring Jamie) Whose man? Whose executioner?! King James or King George?

CLAIRE
I... Don't know. (remembering) The ground was covered with white roses.

JAMIE
The symbol of the Jacobites!

Claire's eyes float as she is "defeated" by the exhaustion of her vision. Frightened and angry, Lovat grabs his knife and RUSHES at Claire (trying to kill the messenger, as Maisri had predicted). Focused on Claire, Jamie does not realize at first what is happening. Chaos unleashes as he turns, his grandfather coming towards him, when suddenly a hand squeezes around Lovat's wrist -

YOUNG SIMON
Stop!

Everyone in the room freezes, including Lovat, who can't believe his son really stood up to him. It is difficult to say who is more shocked - Lord Lovat or the young Simon. Lord Lovat finds his voice first, and it is filled with threats.

LORD LOVAT
How dare you thwart me, my boy!

A shiver of old fear runs through young Simon, but his eyes fall on Laoghaire, who looks at him as a hero (grateful to have saved Jamie, although young Simon does not understand this role). With his admiration and a good dose of adrenaline, he stands firm.

YOUNG SIMON
You and MacKenzie are fearful old men, father, and you are wrong. My cousin is right.

Lord Lovat is momentarily shocked in the silence.

YOUNG SIMON (continued)
It is our duty to defend our country and our parents. I will fight for King James. I will fight to change the vision of the White Lady, even if you don't.

Jamie and Claire share a surprised and joyful look. The crowd isn't sure how to react, turning to Lovat.

Trapped, conflicted and panicked, Lord Lovat's eyes oscillate frantically between Jamie, Claire and her son. Then an idea seems to come to his mind. A calm settles over him. A smile twists his lips. He walks to the head of the table, tears up Sasine's act, then takes up the pen and - to everyone's shock, signs the neutrality agreement.

LORD LOVAT
(to young Simon) I wish you good luck, my boy. (in Colum) Come, MacKenzie. Let us drink from our newly formed alliance.

Colum is as shocked as everyone else, but he's not going to be picky. The two old men go out without looking back.

 

27EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - STABLES - DAY27 

Claire and Jamie finish loading their horses as young Simon swings on his saddle. His horse hesitates while he does, and Jamie reaches out, stabilizing the horse.

YOUNG SIMON
(a little embarrassed) Thank you, cousin.

JAMIE
You did well, Simon. I am proud to call you a parent, and I will be proud to fight alongside you.

This means a lot to young Simon, whose bravery is more fragile now, in the light of day.

YOUNG SIMON
(to Jamie) I'll be waiting for you outside the door.

He walks away.

CLAIRE
At least we saved Lallybroch.

JAMIE
by Lord Lovat. Now we just have to save him from the British army.

 

A28EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - COURTYARD - CONTINUEA28 

Colum's attendants prepare a car for him, and a cart for servants and luggage. As some of the servants finish loading the cart, Colum slowly walks towards the cart. Claire and Jamie cross his path. He stops, looking at Jamie.

COLUM
Return home and to your family.

JAMIE
I told you, uncle. I can't do it.

COLUM(
to Claire) Can't you convince him to listen to reason and go home?

CLAIRE
You've known him longer than I have. What do you think?

Colum shakes his head, then...

COLUM(
to Jamie) It's a blessing that your mother didn't experience to see what a foolless fool she fathered. (then, gruff) Give me your hand.

And Jamie does, helping Colum get into the car. The old man gives his nephew one last look of sadness and farewell, then closes the carriage door. A beat, then...

JAMIE
We have to go too, Claire. I hope to arrive in Kingussie before the end of the week.

Claire looks up and sees Laoghaire in the laundry room, putting a few last things in a basket. Laoghaire looks up, making eye contact with Claire.

CLAIRE
Jamie, before leaving... I need you to thank Laoghaire.

JAMIE
Why? Because she hasn't tried to get you arrested in the last couple of days?

CLAIRE
Please, Jamie. For me? I'll explain all this to you later.

Jamie hesitates, then crosses the courtyard to the laundry room.

 

B28EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - COURT LAUNDRY ROOM - JOURB28 

Jamie approaches Laoghaire.

JAMIE
(stiff) I was told to thank you, exactly why, I don't know. Then... thank you, Laoghaire.

Laoghaire glances at Claire, who is watching them.

LAOGHAIRE
I hope that one day I can also deserve your forgiveness, Jamie.

Jamie nods, without commitment, and goes out into the courtyard,
Laoghaire watching him leave.

LAOGHAIRE (continued) (to herself)
And your love.

 

C28EXT. CHÂTEAU DE BEAUFORT - COURTYARD - DAYC28 

WIDE SHOT as Jamie and Claire ride on their horses. Laoghaire runs out of the laundry room and gets on Colum's cart, and everyone comes out through the gates of Beaufort Castle.

 

28EXT. HIGHLANDS - JOUR28 

Claire, Jamie and young Simon arrive about a kilometre from Beaufort Castle. They stop when they SEE LORD LOVAT'S HUNDRED MEN, mounted and ready to travel.

CLAIRE
Who are they?

YOUNG SIMON
(astonished) My father's men...

And Lord Lovat walks towards them, smiling like the cat that ate the canary.

LORD LOVAT
(to young Simon) Don't sit there looking at me! Go and your men!

Young Simon hesitated. Impatient, Lord Lovat slaps his son's horse, which rushes off, almost dethroning young Simon.

LORD LOVAT (continued)
Turning him into a soldier will be a greater feat than defeating the British.

Lord Lovat smiled brazenly at Claire.

LORD LOVAT (continued)
What vision do you have of me now, Lady White?

Jamie shakes his head, his expression is a mixture of disgust and reluctant appreciation.

CLAIRE
(mystified) I don't understand...

JAMIE
Now it will seem that my grandfather sent his heir to fight. The Stuarts will credit Lord Lovat for supporting King James, if they win.

LORD LOVAT
They don't want to execute me for treason.

CLEAR
BUT... What about the neutrality agreement?

LORD LOVAT
I hope old Colum MacKenzie is right, and it will protect me if the British win.
CLAIRE
And if the British win, what will you say about your son fighting for the Jacobites?

LORD LOVAT
(shrug) He's a stubborn one. You saw it yourself last night. He persuaded others to follow. Thank you, Lady Blanche. I couldn't
have done it all without you.

JAMIE
You didn't get Lallybroch.

LORD LOVAT
Not yet.

And he kicks his horse, galloping towards Beaufort Castle.

JAMIE
Tell me I'm nothing like him, Sassenach.

CLAIRE
I'm afraid I've seen an equally sneaky turn of mind.

In fact, he cannot argue on this point.

JAMIE
I may have to rethink our agreement not to lie to each other.

He pushes his horse forward. Claire smiles and follows him.

 

29EXT. HIGHLANDS - JOUR29 

As the group heads towards Kingussie, Jamie and Claire at the head of the line, young Simon just behind them.

CLAIRE (V.O.)
As we distanced ourselves from Jamie's hateful grandfather, my heart lightened. Maisri had said that we could change the future. Maybe we could. Maybe we've already succeeded...

 
 
CROSSFADE. 

END OF EPISODE 

 

 

Episode 209