|
At Arwen:
A surprise guest …
Jack Sparrow *enters
the house, looking around as if he’s unsure of where he is. He cautiously
approaches the group, eyes narrow as he looks at DeeDee, then turns to Manouche, murmurs so only she can hear him* A word, luv, if you can spare a moment …
Manouche *turns,
surprised* Jack! *he glares at her,
she corrects herself* Captain! By
th’ powers, didn’t know ye’d be ‘ere. Follow me, I know
exactly what it is yer lookin’ fer. *steps away from Malachi and Blake,
leads Jack to the bar table, waves a hand toward it, smiles* Anythin’ else,
mate?
Jack *eyes
the table and its contents longingly, then reluctantly turns away from it* Given
another occasion, that potpourri of imbibements would surely cover approximately 99 percent of my needs. Unfortunately, time is of the essence, and I’m here first and foremost to bestow a small giftie on
said happy couple, if happy they are.
Manouche: Oh aye, they are.
Jack *blinks* Are?
Manouche *nods* Are.
Jack *frowns
at her, raises an eyebrow* Arrrrr?
Manouche: No, ARE, as in they “are” ‘appy!
Why’re ye talkin’ like that, ye sound like a bleedin’ Hollywood pirate.
Jack: Just followin’ your lead, luv.
Manouche: Well, let that be an end to it! Blimey,
this ain’t th’ set o’ Treasure
Island.
*pauses* So where’s this giftie?
Jack *holds
up a hand mysteriously; glances side to side as if to make sure they’re not being watched, then pulls a small box out
of a pocket* Right here, milady. In
this box is an item that will serve them well when next they set sail. But they
mustn’t open it until they’re out to sea. Savvy?
Manouche: What is it, then?
Jack: Afraid that’s one too many questions, luv.
Manouche: But it’s me first!
Jack: Your first? Your first what?
Manouche: Question. How can it be one too many
when it’s me first an’ only question?
Jack *stares
at her for a moment, puzzled, then face brightens* Ahh, but you just asked about
the question … that’s a question as well! So now I can honestly say
you’ve asked one too many questions. *holds the box protectively, as if
defying her to grab it away*
Manouche: So in summation, ye ain’t goin’ t’ tell me what it is, correct?
Jack *thinks,
then nods* Aye, that’s about the size of it. You see, I have need for a go-between, as it were, one I can trust … *takes her hand, puts the box
in it, closes her fingers around it* I need someone to hang onto this until just
before the end of the festivities … then, and only then, should it be given to the bride and groom, and with as few
other observers as is possible. Savvy?
Manouche *looks
at him carefully* Well … aye, I reckon I could do this fer ye. *eyes him sternly* Long as it’s good, an’ not
trouble fer ‘em.
Jack: On my honor, milady … nothing but good can come of its employ. *presses palms together, bows toward her* I knew I could count
on you.
Manouche *looks
at the box, dying of curiosity, then quickly tucks it into her evening bag* Right,
I’ll take care of it. *waves a hand toward the drink table* Now that business ‘as been conducted, what’s yer pleasure, mate?
Jack: It’s with deep regret that I must decline your kind offer, luv. *looks back toward the door, an annoyed expression on his face* I
have a monkey to shoot. Milady. *kisses
her hand, quickly heads for the door; stops for a moment, staring at DeeDee across the room as she leans far over to
adjust her stocking; still staring, not watching where he’s going, he stumbles into the player piano, hitting a switch,
and it starts up, playing “My Wild Irish Rose,” causing everyone to turn and look at him; he smiles charmingly* Requests? *he frowns, quickly turns,
leaves the house*
Enter the witnesses …
Abberline *knows that they
are late when he enters the house with Kat, Miranda and Raven, looks at the crowd* I
hope they haven't started without us. There's Donnie! *takes Kat's hand and drags her through the crowd of chatting people right to Donnie* I am so sorry, I know that we are late. Kat, do you think I
should phone Candy? Just to know that all is okay.
Kat: Bloody
'ell Abby, we only just left 'em. Get a grip and let's not be 'oldin' up them I do's, eh?
Donnie: *smiles*
Abberline, Kat. Welcome! Don't worry, I think everyone's enjoying themselves.
*To Abberline* If you would find
Monroe and ask everyone to go outside on the deck. *Turns
to Kat* Would you go get Grace? Thanks.
Abberline *finds Monroe, looks at him embarrassed, coughs to hide it* Er .. they are wanting
to start the ceremony now. On the deck
Monroe *looks at Abberline
for a moment, then remembers* Oh ... why ... Inspector Abberline, this is a pleasure! *looks past him, sees Kat*
And isn't your wife absolutely stunning tonight. *sees that Abberline looks uncomfortable, smiles warmly* Please,
Inspector, don't be embarrassed. I know you and your wife got off to a rather, er, rough start ... but trust me, I see
that sort of thing all the time. Sometimes the rockiest beginnings wind up to be the longest, happiest marriages.
Come, let's go get things started -- lead the way.
Abberline *still confused* Right. Yes. We are doing just fine now. *looks around him, nervous* This way, please. *leads him to Donnie,
smiles at him* Well, it starts now ... *he
and Monroe go out on the deck to the other guests and take their places, while Donnie waits for O'Malley inside by the door
leading out to the deck.*
Upstairs …
Kat *arrives
at Grace's door, taps on it* Gracie luv, be ye ready?
O'Malley *takes a deep breath
and opens the door* 'Ello Kat. Aye,
I am as ready as I'll ever be, I reckon.
Miranda *feeling unsure seeing
so many unknown faces, and then she finds Sergeant Godley and walks to him with a smile*
Ichy *takes a look at his
uniform and polishes some of the brass buttons, brushes some specks of dust from his shoulder before he walks in. As soon as he's there he sees the Abberlines, holding hands, and Kat looks so beautiful and radiant, and
she's looking at Abberline ... he feels a sting in his heart, and it is as if a mist lifts from his brain when he sees them
together. He has no right to intervene or expect anything from Kat. What has he been thinking of? Where did his morals disappear
to? He feels a blush spreading on his face and neck. He has been acting wrong. He has to cut her out of his heart. He has to leave this place. But not tonight
... *
DeeDee *to Manouche, glances
indifferently at the delivery men* I can play the nice little girl routine, but
I don't really fancy that so much. Over time it gets boring. As usual, all the best men are taken. Your guy looks nice too
- don't worry, I am not going to harass him. *looks at Donnie, suddenly interested*
Now who's that guy talking to Donnie, the one with that ethnic lady in green?
Manouche *looks in the direction
she's pointing, raises her eyebrows* Ah. That would be Inspector Abberline. An' I'll tell ye right now,
luv ... if ye so much as breathe heavy on 'im, I'm liable t' strike. He an' his wife 'ave had more'n their fair share
o' troubles, an' ye ain't goin' to add to that list. So set yer sights elsewhere, or ye'll be answerin' to me.
An' th' nice lil' girl routine will be history. Savvy? *looks at her very intensely*
DeeDee: Inspector Abberline .. Oh, I do understand now ... The uptight Inspector .. *stares at him* You are serious, aren't you? *raises her hands soothingly*
I get it. No jumping on him. But I got to admit that Candy has a good taste. *grins
at Manouche* I'll be the perfect little Miss Shirley ... Oh, they are beginning
now. Poor Donnie!
Manouche *calms
down slightly* Good, glad ye understand.
An’ as fer ye not harassin’ me Mr. Blake, trust me, luv, I ain’t worried. If Mr. Blake’s heart can be turned away from me jus’ because ye were t’ throw yerself
at ‘im, then I reckon I won’t ‘ave lost much. *grins, looking
on* Aye, ‘ere we go, it’s time … *smiles as she feels arms
slide around her, turns her head; Blake kisses her mouth tenderly, and they watch, arms entwined*
O'Malley *follows Kat downstairs
with the bouquet of wild flowers in her hand; she waits a moment to give Kat time to join the guests outside, then continues
towards Donnie. She meets his eyes and smiles nervously*
Donnie *gazes at her lovingly*
Wow! You look so beautiful!
O'Malley *reaches him and
takes his hand* Thanks, luv. Ye
look very handsome. *Quickly kisses him on the cheek before they walk
outside and down the small aisle created by the white rose petals; they stand hand in hand in front of Monroe.*
Monroe *smiles at them both* We’re
here today to join the hands of Grace O’Malley and Donnie Brasco in holy matrimony.
*turns to O’Malley* Grace, do you take Donnie’s hand in marriage,
and will you love, honor and comfort him, in sickness and in health, till death do you part?
O'Malley *glances at Donnie
with a little smile* I do.
Monroe *smiles, turns to Donnie* And Donnie ... do you take Grace's hand in marriage,
and will you love, honor and comfort her, in sickness and in health, till death do you part?
Donnie *positively beaming*
I do.
Monroe *looks at them
both* You may exchange rings now, and say a few words to each other, if you wish.
Donnie
*takes out the rings from his pocket, places a diamond ring on O'Malley's finger and hands her his ring.*
O'Malley
*places the ring on his finger; looks at him with tears in her eyes* I am so lucky to 'ave found ye. Not
only 'ave ye put up with all my nonsense, but ye 'ave made me believe in love, something I thought impossible. *Tears
start running down her cheeks* I love ye more than I can even say.
Donnie
*gently dries off her tears; clears his throat* From the first time we met, I knew there would never be anyone else
for me. I would have married you right then and there. I can't express how happy I am that you opened your heart
to me and let me in. I love you so much. *They turn to Monroe again*
Monroe *smiles, nods* Lovely. By the power vested in me, I
now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride. *Donnie kisses O’Malley, and Monroe motions
for them to turn and face the crowd* May I present Mr. and Mrs. Brasco.
Donnie *with a big smile*
Let the party begin!
Manouche *wiping her eyes*
Blimey, that were lovely ... *Blake smiles, hands her a handkerchief, hugs her tight*
Britt
*just in time, in her halloween costume* Hey, it's a dress, more festive than
formal. *gazes at the two as they still kiss, once they part, applause*
Tom *walks
casually up to Donnie, Britt by his side, Patrick in her arms. Tom puts out a
hand to Donnie, quietly speaks* From one undercover officer to another, I congratulate
you. The both of you.
Britt
*beams at the couple, excited* Ooooh, I'm so happy you two finally got married! It's about time! *smiles*
Donnie
*shakes hands with Tom, gives Brittany a hug* Thank you so much, I'm glad
you could make it. I hear you're in charge of the party at Chez Roux. *In a lowered voice with a wink* We might sneak off pretty early,
though.
O'Malley
*hugs Brittany* Cheers luvs.
Abberline: So. Donnie's securely in chains, poor chap. *looks
after the cigarette case in his breast pocket* I need a smoke and then I
have to find a phone to call Candy.
Kat: Poor chap, eh??? Be
that 'ow ye feel??? Best puff on that ciggie luv.
It's bein' the onliest thin' yer lips gonna
meet tonight!!!!
Abberline:
It was just a figure of speech. But, if that's how you want it ... *picks
a cigarette and looks her straight in the eyes with his dark intense gaze, strokes her neck and bare shoulder* …
that can't be helped ...
At Corso’s apartment:
Loralee *raises her glass
and takes a sip of wine; she puts her glass down and moves closer to him, looks into his eyes*
Yes, it was fortunate that you managed to find me.
Corso *stares her into her
eyes* Yes, I have been looking for you ... You seem somehow changed, your
eyes ... *feels how he's drawn to her*
Loralee *leans into him,
whispers in his ear* No, pet ... I have not changed, I am finally myself.
*Morphs into her demonic face and brushes his neck with her sharp fangs;
she could easily reach to feed on him, before he'd have a chance to fight back, but the playful side of her wants to
see his reaction.*
At Arwen:
Grace
(last name isn't O'Malley anymore, savvy?): *is about to follow the guests back inside, but Donnie gently pulls her back.*
Donnie:
*gazing at her lovingly, putting his arms around her waist and pulling her close* Hello Mrs. Grace O'Malley Brasco...
Grace:
*grins, puts her arms around her neck, her fingers playing with his hair* 'Ello Mr. Brasco...ye best behave yerself,
ye're with a married woman now.
Donnie:
*grinning* Well, technically you were married when I met you too.
Grace:
Ah, good point, luv.
Donnie:
*smiles, leans down and passionately kisses her*
Grace:
*a little out of breath* We should be gettin' back te our guests..*
Donnie:
*gazing into her eyes* So we should...*kisses her again*
Manouche *approaches them
carefully, hating to interrupt* Ahh … Mr. an’ Mrs. Brasco …
*smiles* Congratulations to ye both, luvs, I’m so happy fer ye. I truly hate t’ interrupt ye, but … I need to talk to th’ pair o’ ye, in some privacy,
just fer a moment, savvy?
Grace *they pull apart, giggling* No worries luv, what's on yer mind?
Manouche: When Jack Sparrow were ‘ere earlier, he left somethin’ with me.
He asked me t’ give it to you, it’s a present, of sorts, I suppose y’ could say. *pulls small box out of her evening bag* He didn’t want
me to open it, so I ‘ave no idea what’s inside. He said I were t’
give it to ye both, an’ that it would prove useful to ye someday. But yer
not t’ open it till yer at sea. He didn’t say ye should only open
it if you're in peril … he jus’ said it’s to be open after ye’ve set sail. *hands the box to Donnie, then looks at them, beaming* By
th’ powers, ye do make a most ‘andsome couple. Bless ye both, an’
long life to ye. I’m glad Mr. Blake an’ I could share yer happy day,
an’ we’d like to invite ye out to Rartigillichal later on fer a nice visit, after things ‘ave settled down. *hugs them both close*
Donnie: Thank
you Manouche.
Grace: Cheers
mate, we are most 'appy that ye could both be 'ere an' we'll look forward te visiting ye at Rartigilichal when we return te
Deppville. *Looks with curiosity at the box from Captain Jack* Wonder what it is...
Donnie: I guess
we'll find out soon enough...*frowns* by the way, you still haven't told me where we're going?
Grace: O' course
not! It wouldn't be a surprise, if I did. Not te worry, luv, it will be grand! *Donnie looks at her suspiciously*
Manouche *looks from one
to the other, grins* A surprise honeymoon!
*to Grace* That’s right darin’ on yer part, luv. *to Donnie* No worries, mate, I’m sure Gracie’ll
provide ye with a most entertainin’ honeymoon … whether at sea or ashore.
*winks* An’ now, if ye’ll excuse me, I’m goin’
to find Mr. Blake an’ ‘ave another drinkie … *glances back inside the house, craning her neck to see* I also promised Sergeant Godley I’d help keep an eye on a certain potentially
connivin’ female, if ye catch my meanin’. *turns back to them, smiles
once again* I’ll see ye inside, but if ye sneak away before I ‘ave
a chance t’ say goodbye … *leans closer* … an’ frankly, that’s me advice to ye … *moves
back* … I’ll say to ye now, safe travel, an’ enjoy! *turns,
goes back into the house*
Donnie
*glances at the guests inside, turns and looks at Grace* You know, she made
a good point. You wanna go?
Grace:
I'll meet ye outside, luv. Jus' 'ave te make a quick trip upstairs te
fetch a little something. *Winks* A
very little something ...*quickly kisses him and heads inside the house; she manages to pass by the guests without anyone
stopping her. Upstairs in the bedroom she pulls out a shopping bag from
under the bed, and goes back downstairs. She quickly exits the house and meets
Donnie outside.*
Donnie
*Curiously* What's in the bag?
Grace
*with a mischievous smile* Ye'll see ...
Back inside …
DeeDee
*watches Abberline as he parts from his wife in search of a phone, follows him inside the house* Hi, can you lend a ciggie? I don't have a purse and there are no pockets in this dress. *she turns a little sideways so he can see that her dress is split in the
side all the way up, held by the small brooches.*
Abberline
*distracted, puts down the phone and turns to look at her, and at the mention of the pockets his eyes glide involuntarily
down from her face to her body* Oh, sure.
*lights her cigarette, looks again at her face thinking there's some familiarity in that face, but he can't
place it*
Blake *approaches them* Inspector, Manouche and I didn’t have a chance to greet you and Kat when you
arrived. It’s good to see you again.
*smiles* And I hear you’re a new dad! Manouche told me all about Chiana, I can’t wait to see her.
You don’t happen to have any pictures of her on you, do you? *glances
at DeeDee, then back to Abberline* Have you two met before today? I understand DeeDee’s sister is working for you, as your nanny.
Abberline
*turns his attention to Blake, his face brightening up* How good to see you again,
Blake. You and Manouche really have to come and see Chiana, she must be the most beautiful child there ever
was born, and, can you imagine, she already smiled at me, she looked me straight in the eyes and smiled at me, and I took
her out in the carriage with Raven, and everything went just fine. *takes his
wallet* Here, take a look at her picture.
Don't you agree, she resembles Kat very much, she's got those same delicate Indian features, doesn't she?
DeeDee
*rolls eyes, looks at Blake* Thanks for the cig.
That's all I wanted, to ask about Candy. *turns to go* I almost forgot, Inspector. Daphne says hello and says she's still not got over you. Bye. *walks slowly out of the room, and her eyes set on Ichy, who's talking with Donnie*
Ichy *addresses Donnie in
a very formal way* May I offer my best congratulations on this important day. *reaches hand out to Donnie*
Donnie *shakes his hand* Thank you Crane, happy you could make it. It's
been nice seeing all my old colleagues again. How are you?
Ichy: Thank you, I
am very well. You are very lucky to have found your own pirate. *turns
to Kat* I hope the baby is sound and well.
I would have wanted to see her, but unfortunately I don't have the opportunity and time. Goodbye, Kat.
Kat *Approaches the newlyweds,
smiles* Best wishes mate. *Glances
at Brasco* And iffen ye be e'er in need of a sho'el, eh? *Grins* Hey
I'd say ye need te be tossin' that bouquet now.
Grace *smothering a laugh*
Jus' a little accident some time ago ... Aye, I reckon it is about that time.
*They get everyone's attention, Grace turns her back to the crowd and throws
the bouquet over her head. It flies through the air, over the heads of several
guests, and finally winds up in the hands of a startled Ichy*
Ichy *horrified,
blushing, drops the bouquet, while everybody around is clapping hands* Sorry,
I got into the way, it was probably for you ... *turns to look at DeeDee, who has wormed her way right beside him*
Miranda
*squeals with delight from the other side of the room*
DeeDee:
Is that a proposal? *breathes into
his ear* How very romantic, you are hard to resist … *Ichy gets more red,
backs off, looks around him for help*
Malachi *steps
up to them, takes DeeDee by the arm* May I have this dance? *he whisks her away from the trembling Ichy, takes
her in his arms, they dance*
Don: Ichabod come here i didn’t know you where here well who's the lucky lady how was your little problem,
sorted out now?
Ichy *staring after DeeDee
as if he had seen a spider* Oh, hello Don. It's
getting worse, it's just getting worse all the time. *looks worried around him,
not seeing Miranda anywhere, but mortally afraid that she will soon show her shining eyes and bright smile, and he feels
like whimpering*
Don: maybe you should come back to the office its less frightining more relaxing atmosphere would you like a
drink to calm your nerves. Oh bad you say hmm lets see if i can help any more.
Ichy *nods vigorously* Yes, a drink. I do need a drink, please,
and take me out of here!
Malachi *looks at DeeDee,
eyebrow raised* C'mon, DeeDee, are you that bored? Scaring poor Crane within an inch
of his life? *shakes his head, grinning*
DeeDee: Of course I am bored, I am bored to death. *presses herself
against him* I try to talk to some male and somebody intervenes immediately. Not that I resent your intervention, on the contrary, quite on the contrary. How's chemistry going?
Malachi: Chemistry is going fine. *smirks* Poor little DeeDee, just trying to have an innocent conversation with a nice man at
a wedding. *lowers his voice* You
can cut the act with me, babe. You’re not that dumb, you know exactly what
you’re doing. Not that I have a problem with flaunting the goods. Frankly, I’m all for it, especially when the goods are prime … *grins,
lets his dark eyes sweep over her figure* But there’s a big difference
between attempting a conversation, and draping yourself all over the groom or flaunting the flesh in front of your sister’s
married employer. A wedding isn’t the best location for action, you should
know that. You’d be better off spending the rest of the evening at some
of the clubs, or the taverns in From Hell Court.
DeeDee *pouts* A girl can't go alone to From Hell Court without getting a bad reputation, and Daddy would not like
it at all. Isn't there anyone in this city except that dumb puppy Charlie
that I could even talk to at the wedding? Why did you drag that waiting lady with you - we could have had some fun ...
*moves closer to him, smiles seductively*
Malachi: I didn’t drag Petra,
I asked her because I like her. *smiles*
Call it chemistry. As for what your Daddy would and wouldn’t like
… I’m sure he wouldn’t like knowing that his little girl is coming on to married or about-to-be-married
men, either. You could go out clubbing with your sister sometime, I’m sure
Daddy wouldn’t mind that. *pauses, spins her around* Anyway … yes, I know, you and I could have some fun. Maybe
another time, savvy? Petra and I see each other quite a bit, but we both see other people, too. As you well know. *looks at her, eyes smoldering*
Meanwhile …
Don *to Ichy* ok a drink first a tea was it that you like. you don’t
drink alcohol. I'll tell Ava. *calls
Ava*
Ava: what Don i was mingling dear.
Don: after Ichabods calmed down I’m taking him to the office to discuss the problem he was having.
Ava: I'll stay here a while and get a cab home or something. Hi
Ichabod dear how are you feeling?
Ichy: Tea? Just tea? I
want a - a whisky. *follows after Don scanning the crowd looking very worried* And make it a double.
Don: Ok my mistake Huh *thinks i could of sworn he only drink tea*
ok go steady as you go i dont want to be carrying you home. *arrives at the drinks table pours a double whiskey for Ichabod and rum for him* woo there Ichabod it must be bad. take some deep breaths i
see that Dee Dee has you spooked, don’t let her bother you.
Abberline *after getting
rid of DeeDee, joins Blake and Manouche* You do look so beautiful today, Manouche. *to
Blake* May I borrow your lady for a waltz?
Blake *smiles*
Sure. *kisses Manouche on the cheek, murmurs* Just save the last dance for me, honey.
Manouche *smiles*
We 'ave an accord. *steps away with Abberline, they start to dance, she smiles at him* Yer lookin' extremely dashin'
tonight, Fred. Looks like new fatherhood quite agrees with ye.
Abberline *smiles at her
and looks her in the eyes, tightens his hold on her as he leads her on the floor*
You are flattering me. But it was the best moment in my life when I looked
into my own daughter's eyes for the first time, I have never felt anything like that before, I can't even try to begin
to describe how it was, it's just like everything's different now. I can't explain
it. When are you coming to see her?
Manouche: It ain’t flattery, mate, straight up.
Yer like a new man, an’ it’s a pleasure t’ see. *her
eyes sparkle as she takes pleasure in the dance* An’ yer right light on
yer feet, as well! Blimey, I love a waltz … *smiles at him* Y’don’t ‘ave to explain it … I’m not sure th’ words exist, anyway. It’s jus’ good t’ see. Ye
‘ave yer family now, jus’ like ye wanted, an' ye'll never 'ave to be lonely again.
We’ll be along t’ see Chiana very soon, I can’t wait t’ see ‘er. Bet she’s grown quite a bit since that very first moment. I
hope y’ an’ Kat like th’ gifties I chose for ‘er. I figure
it’ll be right interestin’ to see how she puts ‘em to use.
Abberline: I can't even remember when I have been dancing, but I do love waltz, that's probably the only one
I can somehow. I am indeed not lonely, I seem to have a full house now,
and it's like a completely different place from the house that I brought Raven for the first time in. We will be waiting
for you. *guides her past other dancing pairs* You are an excellent dancer, but I should already have known that ... *looks again at her in the eyes* And you don't have to be alone either.
Manouche: Go on, I can’t believe ye ain’t been dancin’ recently, you’re letter-perfect. *grins* ‘Course I can dance. Gypsy! It’s what we do, luv, right
up there with fortune-tellin’. *she follows as he leads beautifully, they
spin across the floor* Aye, I won’t be alone. Me Mr. Blake is back … *beams* Now it’s my turn,
luv, words can’t describe how I felt when he come out of it all, an’ he finally knew who I was … *blinks
back a happy tear or two. She then looks over and sees DeeDee practically crawling
up Malachi* I reckon Malachi don’t ‘ave to worry about bein’
lonely, either! Did y’ see th’ way he rescued Constable Crane from
‘er? Th’ poor blighter, he looked like a lamb to th’ slaughter. *She laughs, then looks into his eyes, smiles warmly*
You an’ I are right lucky, ain’t we?
Kat *Frowns, scanning a note she'd been handed moments before. Takes
a step toward the dancing couple but pauses as she recalls Abby's earlier remark, as well as the half dressed strumpet she
observed him with earlier. Turns on her heel and heads home alone*
At Bournemouth House:
*As Kat enters the front
door she encounters the frantic Candy and a crying Chiana* I got yer message,
'ave ye not found what be the matter with her? Give her to me. *Kat looks her over, tries to comfort the crying child to no avail.*
Candy: I don't know what the matter is. She's not wet, hungry nor
feverish. I didn't know what to do!
Kat: Yer the bloody nanny! Isn't knowin' 'bout cryin' babies in
yer job description! *Nervously pacing and trying to sooth Chiana.*
At Arwen:
Manouche *dancing, enjoying herself, suddenly has a feeling
something is wrong. She holds Abberline a little tighter as she feels the familiar dizziness, and she knows a vision
is coming to her* Oh, blast ... *She sees and hears Chiana crying, followed by darkness ... then two of the crystals
she gave as gifts come into her mind:*
Malachite: Harmony and balance
Sodalite: Protection from external negative energy
*she opens her eyes, sees Abberline looking at her, concerned* Fred ... I think ye'd best
go home, luv. It's Chiana ... *she looks across the room and sees Raven, who she hasn't seen much of all evening, staring
at her, his eyes large and dark with concern. She looks back into Abberline's eyes* Please, luv, take Raven an'
go.
Raven *runs up to them* Manouche ... is something wrong? ...
Manouche *crouches down to him* S'all goin' to be sound. But I want ye
an' yer dad to go home right away. An' when ye get there, if Chiana's still cryin', get the crystals I sent,
an' take th' Malachite an' th' Sodalite, an' press 'em to her lightly. Savvy? Don't ferget, th' Malachite
an' Sodalite. Got it? *smiles encouragingly, Raven nods* Good. Hurry now, off with ye. *stands
up straight, kisses Abberline on the cheek, murmurs* Obliged fer th' lovely waltz, mate. Ye an' Kat call on me
if ye need me.
Raven *looks up at Abberline* Come, Father. *holds out his hand*
Abberline * turns his frightened
eyes to Manouche* You had a vision? There's
something wrong with Chiana? I knew that I shouldn't have left her! *squeezes Manouche's hand, then releases her, and with the music still playing, leaves her on the dancing
floor and rushes home*
Blake *approaches Manouche* Honey … what happened? I saw Kat
leave, and then …
Manouche *stares at the doorway
where Abberline and Raven left, then turns to Blake* There’s a bit o’
trouble with Chiana … she’s cryin’, an’ they can’t figure out what’s wrong. *smiles slightly* It could be many things, an’ many
of th’ possibilities are not serious. So we’ll hope for th’
best.
Blake: Do you think we should go offer to help?
Manouche *shakes her head* No, I think they’ll be sound. Raven
or Fred either one can contact me if need be. Let’s leave ‘em to
it. *turns, looks at him lovingly* I
believe I’m ready fer that last dance o’ th’ evenin’, Mr. Blake.
Then, if ye’d be so kind as to escort me home …
Blake *smiles* My pleasure, Mrs. Blake. *listens for a moment, then takes
her in his arms* And how convenient, they’re playing a slow one. *they wrap their arms around each other, dance slowly, very close, gazing deep into each others’
eyes*
At Bournemouth House:
*As they finally open the
door, Abberline can hear Chiana crying like never before; concerned, he runs into her room and finds Kat and Candy, takes Chiana
from Kat, she is still crying* Raven, the crystals ...
Raven *runs to get the bag
of small crystals, searches through them, finds the right ones, each being marked. Quickly
runs back to Abberline, holds them up* Here they are, Father … Manouche
said to press them against her, lightly. *tries to keep himself from trembling,
tells himself, I’m not afraid .. *
Abberline: Do it, now!
Raven *brings Abberline over
to a large easy chair, has him sit down with Chiana in his lap. They pull up her little top, and Raven, not sure what
he's doing, decides to place the Malachite over her heart, and the Sodalite on her stomach. He carefully, gently holds
them in place as Chiana squirms and cries, then after a few moments, her crying calms down to light whimpering ... then she
finally stops, blinks her large eyes up at Raven, then her father, and she smiles a little, and extends a glowing feeling
of well-being to both of them. She suddenly looks very sleepy, and soon her eyelids drop down, and she falls into a
peaceful sleep*
At Arwen:
DeeDee *stares breathless
into his glorious eyes, her voice husky with desire* I don't mind you seeing
her, but I want the fun and I want it now and not some other time. Daddy's a
bore and so is Candy, and a marriage is just a piece of paper. *distracted by
seeing Abberline leave Manouche and head out* Oh well, there goes one guy. Did you notice how he looked at me?
Malachi *releases her as
the music stops* Sorry, darlin', but I can't accommodate you tonight. Petra and I have
plans. You have a right to your opinions about marriage, but I can tell you right now, that attitude won't win you many
friends in this particular crowd. *grins* I should introduce you to Dean Corso. *looks up, sees Petra coming toward them. He smiles charmingly at DeeDee, bows to her* Thank you for the delightful dance, Miss
DeeDee. *he straightens up, smiles sardonically, then turns and greets Petra, just as a
slow song starts. He takes her in his arms, and they dance slowly together, talking softly and laughing*
DeeDee *looks around her
to see someone, muttering to herself * Keep to the chemistry, mister. You are not the only man in this bloody town...
*wanders around till she is suddenly stopped by hearing a familiar name*
Sebastian *talking to someone*
...I barely made it today, we've such a shortage of nurses at the hospital. We haven't even got any replacement for Daphne
yet which means that the rest of us have to do extra shifts..*
DeeDee *doing her tripping-on-
hig-heels trick on Sebastian, falling straight into his arms gracefully, smiling at him when he releases her* Sorry,
these heels can be such a nuisance sometime. I should have chosen flat ones. Thanks.
Sebastian *completely
charmed by her looks* You are welcome... I hope you are allright. Say, have I seen you before?
DeeDee *looks down modestly*
I have been a swimsuit model. Or perhaps I resemblse someone you know. I heard you mention Daphne. She's my cousin.
I'm DeeDee.
Sebastian : Really?
*his mind filled with all the swimsuit pictures he's ever seen, and everyone represents her...* You are quite a family.
Very pleased to know you, DeeDee. I'm Sebastian and I was Daphne's colleague.
DeeDee: Oh, you are a nurse.
How very fortunate for me. I think that I have sprained my ankle? Could you help me somewhere I could sit down and take
a look at it.
Sebastian *completely enchanted* I
can take a look at you.. er your ankle.
DeeDee: Thank you, Sebastian
* I think I need... that my ankle needs badly an examination. * Leans heavily on him as he helps her out of the room*
At Bournemouth House:
Raven *slowly removes the
little crystals from Chiana, gently pulls her top down, pats her tiny face tenderly. Looks at Abberline* I ...
I think she's okay ... *looks over at Kat, smiles anxiously*
Kat: Ye made 'er stop. What
was that ye did? Why were she cryin' so?
Raven: I … I don’t know. Manouche told us to try this
… *thinks for a moment* Maybe … maybe Chiana just used th’
power of these to heal herself. I saw stuff like that when I was with True Dreamer. But … the meaning of these crystals … *he goes to where he left the rest
of the crystals, fetches the description sheet, reads:* Malachite, harmony and balance … Sodalite, protection from
external negative energy. *looks up at his parents, concerned* Why did she need those, out of all of ‘em? An’
how did Manouche know? *he looks at Candy*
Candy … is there somethin’ you know that you’re not telling us?
Candy *Nervously*
I'm here to protect her and guide her in the future. But there are things here I
don't understand.
I swear I'm here for her good I am not evil.
I would never bring her harm. I swear.
Abberline: External negative energy? What does that mean? *looks at Chiana, sleeping peacefully in his lap*
Kat: I be ‘er mother and I were completely useless. *Hangs
her head, sighs* I be not much of a mother.
Abberline *to Candy* I do believe you. Please sit down, I
want to talk with you. *to Raven and Kat*
She seems to be all right now, but I'll stay with her. *turns to Candy,
speaks to her softly not to disturb Chiana* What things? Do you know something we don't? I know that we have had all
kinds of trouble, but I thought it would have ended. *speaks to her softly,
warmly*
Kat: Come Raven, you need ter rest, luv. *Ascends
stairs to bed.
Raven *leans
down and kisses Chiana, then takes Kat’s hand, goes with her up the stairs. Instead
of going straight to his room, he continues to hold onto her hand insistently, takes her into the master bedroom, sits her
down on the bed* Mother … don’t worry, Chiana’s okay. An’ I think I believe Candy, I think she really wants to help. But I can’t … there’s somethin’ about her I can’t figure out … *he
concentrates for a moment, then shrugs. Looks at Kat, brings a hand to her face,
smiles gently* You weren’t useless, Mother … none of us really knew
what to do, it's different with a healer baby. Chiana felt your love, it helped
her. She needs you. *his eyes start
to tear up, and he scowls, quickly blinks them away, touchingly comical in his determination not to cry* Please don’t say anything like that about yourself again, you’re a wonderful mother. *hugs her*
On The Brave:
*The cabin
has been decorated with lit candles, red rose petals on the bed, and on the nightstand is a bottle of champagne on ice with
two glasses and a small glass vase with a single long-stemmed red rose. All of
it done by the crew Grace hired for the ship, so she and Donnie wouldn't have to sail the ship themselves. Grace and Donnie have greeted the crew and thanked them for their well-wishes and congratulations
before retiring to the captain's cabin. The ship sets sail and leaves Deppville*
Donnie
*leads Grace to the bed and has her sitting down; he opens a drawer in the nightstand and takes out a jewelry box; sits down
on the bed turned towards her.* I have a little wedding present for you. *Hands her the box*
Grace
*smiles* Ye shouldn't 'ave, luv. We
ne'er talked about giving each other presents an' I don't have anything fer ye.
Donnie:
Doesn't matter, I have all I could ever want in the world. Now go on, open it.
Grace:
*smiles and opens it, her mouth drops when she sees the beautiful white gold necklace with a heart-shaped pendant (and no,
there's no mystery meaning, it's just a pendant); looks up at Donnie* Oh it's
beautiful, luv. Thank you so much. *Kisses
him quickly, takes the necklace out of the box*
Donnie
*smiles, takes the necklace and helps her put it on* It looks even more beautiful
on you.
Grace *gently touches the
pendant* Thanks luv.
Donnie *nods towards the
bag Grace brought with her* Now what are you hiding in that bag?
Grace *hands him the
bag; smiling secretively* Why don't ye go ahead an' take a look.
Donnie *opens the bag and
pulls out a box from Vicky's Dirty Little Secrets. He opens the box and takes
out a black and red lingerie set; smirks* I don't think this is going to
fit me.
Grace *laughs* Then 'ow 'bout I wear it so ye can take it off me again.
Donnie *nods* I think that will work much better.
Grace *takes the set and
rises from the bed* Be right back. *She goes into the adjoining room
and slips out of her wedding dress and into the lingerie; returns to the bedroom; playfully*
Do we like?
Donnie *swallows hard as
he sees her* Oh we absolutely like! *Grace
smiles, joins him on the bed and they make love for the first time as husband and wife.*
At Bournemouth House:
Abberline *watches Kat and
Raven go, then turns back to Candy, nods to the sofa beside his chair* Come
and sit down now. You don't have to be nervous, I am not going to fire you,
and I am not blaming you for anything. Tell me what exactly happened. And
I am very intrigued that you said that there's something odd here. I want
to know everything. *smiles at her to encourage her, then he looks at Chiana,
feeling a lump in his throat when he thinks that something could happen to her*
Candy *Shivers* I was sent here by a sect called the Keepers of the Flame. Their
made up of two groups, the seekers and the mentors. *Looks closely at Abby* We're all gifted with magic of one kind or another. Some like myself are witches, but not evil. The seekers search
for children that possess magical gifts born into families that are either ignorant of such things or don't have the knowledge
to teach and lead the child. The mentors are then sent to infiltrate the family
and guide the child. They wanted me to be a seeker but I begged for a chance
to mentor. Twice before I was sent to try. But
there are rules and I failed. As I'm failing now. *Tearfully* I sensed the evil after I arrived and I
set wardings all around this house. They didn't work. The elders must not have known about the evil or they would have sent someone more powerful to
fight it instead of me. This was my last chance. I've
also failed Chiana, even if I sent word right now I doubt they could get help here soon enough. Whatever's out there is growing impatient. I feel it. *Hangs her head sadly* I don't know what
to do. I'm sorry.
Abberline *shakes his head
confused, and as Candy goes on, tightens his grip on Chiana* This is quite
a story, Candy, and I don't know if I should believe you or not. What is
the goal of this group? I would just want to see her to grow up to be a
normal, healthy happy child, not to be any magician or witch ... But I have also learned to trust Raven's instincts,
and he accepted you, so I suppose I must take your story as the truth, though I would not want to. And if that all is true, what are we going to do? Who
could do any harm to a sweet innocent baby? And what do you mean with failing.
Chiana is here, in my lap, she is well an she is sleeping soundly and
peacefully. *looks at Candy intently* You can't even imagine what
this child means to me.
At Arwen:
Miranda *sitting in
a chair in a corner, looks how DeeDee attacks Ichy, and how he leaves with Don, and the next thing is the Abberlines
leaving in a hurry, completely forgetting her. Nobody notices her and she
gets an odd feeling, like it has happened to her before, she walks through a room and no one takes any notice of
her, no one seems to care what she's trying to say, as if she were just a ghost. The
thought gives her a chill. A ghost at a wedding. She starts to fee panic, maybe she really is just a ghost
and no one can see or hear her, and she jumps up so violently that she treads on the shoes of a dancing couple, the man
wearing a black suit and red shirt looks at her curiously and not at all mad, she stifles a sob and backs off* Sorry, sir!
Malachi *looks at her* No worries, no harm done … *starts to turn away, then looks at her again, sees
her tears, adds sympathetically* Seriously, don’t worry about it …
Petra *also looks at her* Are you all
right? Do you need help?
Miranda *blinks, looks at
their friendly faces, and suddenly she starts to cry like a little child* I
just want to live ... Is that wrong!
Malachi *exchanges a puzzled
look with Petra, then turns to her, gently takes her arm*
Take it easy, it’s all right … *reaches in his breast pocket, takes his handkerchief, hands it to her*
Petra: Who are you, where do you live? Would you like us to help you get home?
Miranda *takes the handkerchief
and starts to bawl even more* They left and they forgot me. They didn't
care to take me with them. And Ichy, he left too, and he tried to avoid me so
hard all the time … *hides her face in Malachi's chest* The Abberlines ... I thought they liked me ... *looks at Petra* Everybody
is so happy but me ...
Petra *studies her for
a moment, then brightens* Hey, I’ve seen you before … I saw you at
Chez Roux. *turns to Malachi* She
lives at Bournemouth House. She came into Chez Roux with Constable Crane …
Malachi *rolls
his eyes* Ahh, that explains a lot. *holds
Miranda while she cries, feeling a little uncomfortable* Uhh, look, miss …
I hate to have to tell you this, but … how can I put it … Constable Crane is kind of a doofus. Especially when it comes to women. My guess is he’s
been pullin’ the old advance-retreat routine on you. *glances at Petra, smirks* It’s his specialty …
nervous as a bloody cat. *scans the room, looking for Ichy* I guess he must’ve left, I don’t see him anywhere. *gives
her a reassuring squeeze* You’re better off, savvy? Pretty lady like you, I’m sure you have your choice of guys … *frowns as she cries harder,
looks at Petra, confused* What’d
I say?
Petra *shakes her head* Men! *moves closer to Petra, pats her arm* C’mon, sweetie, you’re
gonna be all right. You want us to take you to Bournemouth House? I have my car outside.
Miranda *sobs more quietly
and squeezes the handkerchief into a tight ball, breaks loose from Malachi* He
is not a doofus! *hits him with her little fist, eyes flashing* He's not! *then she turns to Petra, wiping her eyes, nods to her* You are so kind. My name's Miranda, and I have been living in Bournemouth House, because I have no other place I could
call home. *swallows, then goes on already much comforted by her kind tone and words* I
acted stupidly, didn't I? I want to live just like everyone else, and I want
to love, and ... and I hate weddings! And I don't want to go home now.
And then I watched you dance, and you looked so happy and relaxed, and I was sitting in a corner and nobody took
any notice of me. *smiles faintly* And
now I got red eyes so no one is going to want to dance with me, because I look so horrible. *sighs*
I am sorry, I didn't want to create a scene.
Petra *comfortingly* Sweet, you don’t
look horrible, it’s just a little crying, that’s all. *looks at Malachi
sharply, as if to say “fix this”*
Malachi *rubs
his arm where Miranda struck him, then runs a hand through his hair, thinking* Okay,
okay … how about this … between Petra and me, we have
three humble abodes, as it were. *reconsiders, decides not to mention the apartment
at From Hell Court* Well, make that two.
How about we get you out of here, and if you would like to go somewhere, we’ll take you for a bite to eat. And if you’d rather be alone, we'll take you to … *looks at
Petra, eyebrows raised, she nods; he looks back at Miranda* … you
can either stay at Petra’s apartment, or my house for the night. How’s that? *glances at Petra again, she nods approvingly, smiles*
Miranda *starts to smile,
brightens up, looks at Malachi with big eyes* Would you really do that? I hardly know anyone here but the Abberlines and..
and.. I don't really know anybody. And they just left me here alone *wrinkles her brow* Can we go immediately *goes quiet
for a while* But it means that I have ruined the party for you. I don't want to do that. And *looks hopefully at them both*
I would have wanted to dance so badly...
Malachi *hears
the music starting up, feels Petra's eyes on him again, looks at Miranda* Well, no sense letting a perfectly good song go to waste. *he
holds his arm out to Miranda, she takes it, he starts to dance with her; once again, he glances at Petra, who smiles. He shakes his head, then looks
down at Miranda, whose tears have dried and her face is flushed and pretty from her enjoyment of the dance, and she's gazing
around the room excitedly. His heart suddenly goes out to her; she seems so genuinely
sweet* You haven’t ruined the party for us, we were just about to leave. We have dinner reservations at Celeste. We
can drop you off first, or you’re welcome to join us, if you like. I’m
sure Petra will invite you if I don’t … and besides … *casts
his dark eyes over her dress approvingly* … it couldn’t hurt my reputation to walk into Celeste with two beautiful
women. *smiles charmingly*
Miranda *notes his gaze,
blushes, then smiles brightly at him* I have never been to any restaurant
before. You are both so nice! *and
she reaches up to him and gives him a little kiss on the cheek, excited at the opportunity of getting out with them*
Malachi *frowns* You’ve never been to a … *his voice trails off as the music stops, and he brings a hand up
to where she kissed him. He looks at her as Petra comes up to them, then he smiles
slightly* Well, if this is going to be your first restaurant experience, you’re
in for a treat … *he looks at Petra* I’ve invited Miranda to dinner
with us, if that’s all right with you.
Petra: It’s fine. *nods toward the door* I’m parked out front, let’s
go. *Miranda walks ahead of them, Petra takes Malachi’s arm, leans in and
kisses him on the cheek*
Malachi: What’s that for?
Petra *smiles* You’re very sweet. *looks at Miranda, walking in front of them*
I feel sorry for her. It’s kind of you to help her.
Malachi *smirks* Just don’t let it get around, savvy? Bad for business.
*mutters* Ruin my reputation …
Petra *laughs* Your secret’s safe
with me. *looks at him suggestively* Matter
of fact, once dinner’s over, I’m sure I can find a more tangible way of showing my admiration. After all, the night is young … *she leans close again, kisses his neck, licks his ear*
Malachi *looks at her intently* I’ll, ahh, save room for dessert … *he wraps an arm around her waist,
pulls her close, kisses her lips quickly; they head out the door, the three of them get into Petra’s car, drive off
toward Celeste*
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