Rendered unable to lead his clan by illness, Colum Mackenzie yet leads the Clan Mackenzie using his intellect and compassion. He commands the respect of the Clan and notes that he would rather be known for his brain than his ability to father a child. He holds Jamie in some regard, but is wary of his growing leadership abilities. He suspects Claire to be a spy, but allows her to remain under his watch, but does not intercede when she is placed on trial for witchcraft.