Part Two

After Nate's capture:

*Answering machine at Chez Roux* beeeeeep!

Marijke, luv, Manouche 'ere. Thought y'should know, we had need to use yer storage locker in the basement o' Chez Roux last night. Now don't be alarmed, but ... well, we 'ad quite the evenin', we bein' Willy, Madame an' I. We caught who we're pretty certain is th' murderer who's been terrorizin' Deppville. Willy were a hero, an' behaved as brave as any pirate, which ain't small praise, t' be sure. We left this man, who goes by Nate, in yer storage locker, he were knocked cold at th' time. Th' answer to why we didn't take 'im to authorities is simple ... we were draggin' him, on foot, mind, an' he's bloody heavy. We got as far as Chez Roux, you weren't about, so we took that small liberty. It's a long story, but if ye'd be so kind as t' call Portsmith, Donnie, or whoever y'feel would be best, have 'em pick up this bloke an' lock 'im up proper, in anticipation, I'm assumin', of the short drop an' sudden stop. An' y' can tell Portsmith this is one time he can't blame any o' this on th' bloody pirates. Savvy? Right, we'll talk more tomorrow, luv ... I'm so tired I can't see straight no more, an' Willy's gonna ache like th' very devil when he wakes up. Ta, mate. *click*

Marijke *picks up phone* Ow no...! Manouche, I love you, I respect you, but... a man, in my supply locker ... ?!? *dials 911* Hello? Portsmith? Donnie? Fred? Ichy? I think I have a serious problem ... ! There's a man in my locker! No, don't ask my how and why, it's a miracle for me too, but please, can you pick him up a.s.a.p.? Portsmith: That would be Fred with Godley. Donnie screwed it up at Manouche's boat er ... ship. Kidd: Message to Manouche, and it ain't no bleedin' answerin' machine!!! Ye left that blighter in the Chez Roux locker!!! News flash! Kat's sittin' in jail possibly accused of murder and you were te tired te be pickin' up a phone and callin' whoever were on duty and settin' things straight!!!! Well maybe we'll be see'in' 'ow ye be feelin' 'bout sittin' in the brig for a few days!!!! SAVVY? Manouche *hands over ears, doubled over* BLIMEY, KIDD, YER LOUD on a Sunday mornin'!!!! We caught th' blighter, we locked 'im up, with full intention o' explainin' everythin' come the bloody dawn. Don't see how I could be locked up fer that. Oww!! It were th' Wonkas' choice, too, weren't it? Nate's heavy, it were late, I was incapacitated, there was a blizzard, th' dog ate me bleedin' homework ... no, wait, those are excuses I keep on file fer other occasions, as it were. Apologies, luv. By th' powers, seems I can't do anythin' without gettin' a right bollocksin' from SOMEbody! *whine, sniff* Manouche *entering Chez Roux, staggers backward in doorway at Kaatje's howl* Blimey, luv, keep 'er down to a low roar. Some of us is 'avin' a rough awakenin'. *helps self to rum, drops into chair at table* Not a peep from th' Wonkas. Not surprised, after th' night they had. *takes drink, mutters* Kidd's wrong, I won't be goin' to th' brig fer this. Yellin' like that, what's she on about? Not sure I deserved that. So there's truth to th' sayin', then ... one good deed is not enough to redeem a man of a lifetime of wickedness, yet it seems enough to condemn him. Or in this case, a woman. *drinks, brightens a little* Although, if I'm in th' brig, an' Kat's OUT o' the brig, at least I won't 'ave to be bothered with dodgin' that bleedin' shovel. *shakes head* Wonder if anyone's bothered t' collect that blighter Nate yet?? Kidd: Hey!!!! When ye gonna be lettin' Kat outta this jail? Ye got yer killer, didn't ye? Marijke: Another reason to release Kat soon! Poor girl... Jenna: Yeap ... show her um (whats a really UGLY celebrity thats out there ... um ...) I dunno but show her an ugly celebrity with his shirt off, give her a nice cup of tea, ice packs, and a pillow ... she'll be better in a few hours. Kidd: GRRRRR......Just be sending Ichy in this cell for a bit or maybe e'en Fred, eh? Portsmith: Hey, if you won't stop that screaming you will be in with Kat and you will find yourselves in a padded cell. Don't you see I am busy at the moment with important matters. And she attacked an officer on duty if you remember. Manouche *nervously looks up from rum* Ahhh, let's not be too hasty, lettin' Kat out, luvs! At least, not with 'er blasted shovel ... Kidd: Oh by the way, I HEARD THAT!!!! You're not 'elpin'!!!! Manouche *cringes* Apologies, luv! Kat: LET ME OUT!! Ye can't be leavin' me back here with this monster. I didn't mean te be hitting Donnie.I thought he was Nate. Portsmith: If Kidd doesn't calm down, I'll show her Tom Cruise. And to Kat, too. Kidd: Hey!!!! That would be cruel and unusal punishment!!! Kat: LET ME OUT!!! Nate keeps describing how he's going to kill me!!!! PLEASE, GET ME OUT!! Marijke: Please, commander...! My heart breaks! The poor girl, the attack was an accident! Manouche *hands over ears again* Blimey, I knew we should'a killed that Nate when we 'ad the chance. Sendin' a chocolatier t' do a pirate's work ... Ah well, Madame were right, Willy's no murderer, hero though he may be ... Kat: You don't know him like I do he's a bloody genius. If there’s away out of that cell I'm as good as dead!!!! LET ME OUT!!!! Portsmith: Yes, I can hear that too in my office. He's very imaginative. *evil grin* Kat: Ye be a cruel cruel woman, Portsmith. I say I've done no wrong. Is Donnie pressing charges, he KNOWS I'm innocent!!!! LET ME OUT!!!! I want a lawyer!!!! Pam: Hey, we just passed the 20,000 e-mail message mark!! A record? I love records. Drinks all around! Kat: Can't!!! Portsmith won't let me out. *thinking: And Ichy still has that bloody locket* Manouche *head shoots up, having heard Kat's thoughts* .... By th' powers, ICHY has th' bloody locket ... Marijke: Ichy has that? Hm, too bad Kaatje is still screaming and running around like it's full moon already, I think she would have the PERFECT way to talk Ichy into letting you out ...! Hm, it's worth a try … Kaatje? Kaatje, liefje, come to your sis, I have something I want you to do for me and Kat ... Manouche *blinks* Oh! Blimey, did I say that out loud? 'Evenin', Marijke, mate. N-no, y'misunderstood. I said, "By th' powers, I got a hole in me bloody pocket!" *smiles, looks over at Kaatje* Hmm, she's feelin' no pain, eh luv. Well, cheers, thanks fer th' drinks, luv, I ah .... I think I best be findin' Ichy, or Portsmith. *mutters to self* Now THERE'S a surprisin' turn, me seekin' out Portsmith. *stands, tips hat* Kidd: Kaatje best be doin' only talkin' with Ichy. Given time, I intend to brand Ichy. She be welcome to Wilmot. At Deppville lockup: Manouche: Commander! Ichy!! I got somethin' important t' tell ye. Blimey, where are they? I wonder, should I talk t' Kat? She's already a bit peevish with me, as it is. Kat: MANOUCHE? BE THAT YOU OUT THERE? Manouche *jumps* Gaaahh!! *peeks around corner, sees Kat in cell, smiles* Oh, ah, 'evenin', Kat. Lookin' well, I must say. S'all this agreein' with ye, mate? *smiles, frowns when Kat glowers and says nothing.* Right. I were lookin' fer th' Commander or Ichy, they around? I 'ave somethin' to tell 'em, I think they should know. Ichy, in particular. *moves close to cell, lowers voice* S'about that, ah, item everyone's so skittish about, yerself included. Savvy? Kat: *reaching through bars grabbing Manouche* Just what item might that be? *tightning her grip* Manouche *choking, swallows hard, whispers* Y'know good an' well! Th-that locket. *presses hands against bars* What is it with that bloody thing? Nate tore me ship apart tryin' t'find it. Easy, mate, yer chokin' me --- Kat: What? Nate? *looking at the man in the cell across the way* Why? Robertos dead, he was the only witness that could place it at a murder scene. Anything I say would be hearsay, worthless. Why now do you want it so badly? Nate *laughs* You'll not live long enough to know. *smiles menacingly*

Manouche *jumps at sound of Nate's voice, continues to whisper to Kat* I don't want it, wish I'd never seen th' blasted thing. Jus' wanted t' warn -- *glances over at Nate* -- wanted t' warn whoever 'as it, that it's dangerous. Needs t' be under lock an' key, as it were. *nods toward Nate* He wants it bad enough, it must mean somethin'. I ---- *cuts off, blinks, looks at Kat intently. Eyes widen* Oh, my God .... it don't make sense .... *squeezes eyes shut, looks at Kat again* Y'need t' get out o' here. I can't quite make it out ... heart an' soul, blimey, what's it all mean? *starts to tremble* Th- th' commander needs t' let you out. I-- I should go try an' find 'im --- *tries to pull away, Kat holds fast*

Kat *Holding tightly to Manouche* If Portsmith sees that locket, I might just never see the light of day again. I just don't understand why Ichy has it hidden. It's his job after all he said it himself, the rotter. I'll let you go but don't tell Portsmith about that locket. Do you understand?

Melissa *happens upon them. To Kat, thinking of Bengals game* Not looking forward to this much ... *Prays for overtime* Innocent, you? Ah, yes.. aren’t we all.

Manouche *waving from where Kat's holding her against the cell door* Aye, good luck t' ye an' yer Bengals, Melissa, mate! *smile fades under Kat's glare*

Melissa: My bengals? Lisa's not gonna like that one much lol. Uhh, you okay over there? Looks like you may need some luck yourself. Too bad I'm saving it all for myself for when she comes after me. Sorry mate, but I'm going to be needing all I can get. Dammit, I think the game’s over. Missed the ending. I think I'll go for a little stroll now … try and keep my distance.

Kat: HEY!!! Ye be an ungrateful brat!! Just be 'oldin' ye breath next time yer in trouble. Let ye rot I will!

Manouche: Come on you filthy, slimy, mangy cur. ---- No, no, no, no, no, I didn't mean it! I didn't ---

Melissa: Laugh it up, mate. For who knows, I could've just run off with the key. *leaves*

Manouche *back to Kat* I won't breathe a word t' Portsmith, if y'say so. But tell me this, mate ... who's gonna tell Ichy not t' tell Portsmith about it?? If he hasn't already, that is. S'evidence, that. Ichy were just doin' his job. *nods toward door* It's prob'ly filed away in th' office. You an' Nate ... *lowers voice even more* I been takin' somethin', y'see ... from an old friend, as it were, well, loosely speakin'. Bloke fromFiji. It helps me see th' damndest things. Not fer th' faint of heart. *grins, peers at Kat again* Have y'got a tattoo, luv? You an' Nate -- you an' he go back a ways, don'tcha? You were ...

Kat: Taking something, seeing things, sounds like a vision quest to me. No I don't think Ichy has, or Portsmith would have been putting the nails in the coffin by now. The tattoo? Of course Kidd talks too much! Nate and me you see too much!!! Knowing what you do, you must see that Portsmith could misconstrue the locket as evidence that I might be his accomplice.

Manouche: I s'pose I see where he could get that idea. *relaxes a little* Well, then, all's sound, innit? I mean ... Nate's locked up, they ain't about t' let him get away with less than the short drop an' sudden stop, after all he's done. Don't see what he can possibly do t' ye now. You bein' in here, this is jus' a technicality. *shrugs* So y'hit a cop. With a shovel. Simple mistake, could happen t' anybody. They'll let y'out sooner or later. I could try t' talk Portsmith into makin' it sooner, but I'll stay removed from it altogether if that's yer preference. Savvy? *shakes head* Still somethin' naggin' at me ... y'should be outta 'ere, sooner th' better. I'd let ye out meself, 'cept Portsmith'd have me head. Why's NATE want that bloody locket so bad, why's he give a toss? *shrugs* Right, let me go, mate, an' I won't say a word t' Portsmith. If that's really all I can do fer ye at this particular juncture, I'll be on me way. *leans closer, nods toward Nate* What'd y'ever see in him in the first place, luv? Oh, I'll grant he could be conceived as havin' a certain animal magnetism ...

Kat: Believe it or not he had something, people respected him, trusted him, believed in him, enough it doesn't matter. Find Ichy and one way or another get that locket. When I get out of here, Kidd will take care of Ichy.

Manouche: Aye, consider it done. I'll find Ichy, by th' powers, I'll get th' locket. *looks at her again* I think we need t' keep close tabs on it. Jus' a feelin' I have. If there ain't anythin' else ... y'can let go o' me, now, mate, an' I'll go search fer Ichy. *gulps nervously as Nate laughs again*

Kat *releases Manouche* Go then and be quick, Lisa will be back soon and hopefully she'll get me out of here.

Lisa: Hi guys. I am in a particularly foul mood tonight, so let me start by saying if I say anything that offends or pisses anyone off, it is NOT my intention.

Kat: So much for me gettin' outa jail tonight. He heh!

Lisa: Here's the key!

Kat: What? I’m free? What about Portsmith?

Lisa: Bigger hat, bigger feather, more rank! Now go, before I change me mind!! Lol Let's not be tellin’ the Commander about this ...

Kat: Well won't she be wondering about how I got free? What if she's for locking me back up? Maybe I should be takin' a trip.

Lisa: Well, she'll know I guess, by reading the messages...lol (I always tell you guys that) She has no reason to lock you up, does she? Didn't you hit someone in what you thought was self-defense? And you aren't the muderer, right? So, what grounds does she have? (It's been a day, so apologies if I missed something here, lol)

Manouche *pausing during search for Ichy* Kat's got a point, Lisa, mate. Th' Commander won't be takin' a cavalier attitude toward returnin' an' findin' Donnie's attacker missin' in action, as it were. Kat's trip notwithstandin', y'might want to consider pullin' rank, remindin' the Commander whose hat is largest, as it were. Not that I would begin t' tell ye how t' run yer office. Wouldn't dream of imposin'. After all, I ---- wait, I think I see Ichy! Sorry, luv, must dash. *runs off*

In Portsmith’s office:

Portsmith *in her office with the crew, she is in a foul mood, leafing through the reports on her table.* Donnie, you know you blundered and shamed out the Security by letting Kat take you out by surprise. For goodness sake, you were in a pirate ship filled with pirates. You should have known to be on your guard all the time. You let that man escape, and he would have gone free if Willy Wonka had not managed to take him. We will see that he gets a reward for his bravery. But what shall we do with you? *turning to the next victim* Oh, and Constable Crane, I know there is something you still hide from me. There is no way that any chemical reaction could show that a body's pockets have been searched. I am informed that you were there in the place, which means that you saw something. I know pocket picking would be Manouche's first reaction, but I am very intrigued why you will not disclose what was taken. *And last, she turns to Fred* What was that about buying a drink for that blonde in high heels at Chez Roux? You were just drinking and womanizing while the Wonkas had to save Deppville. And now I will never know the truth because you let the Vice-Mayor free Kat. What a wonder that the murderer is still in jail. Some crew you are! I should have transferred this case immediately over to Colonel Depp and Hanson. *Swipes the reports to the floor, sees some papers* What's this, wanted for being too sexy ... Gentlemen, you are dismissed! I have got urgent matters waiting ... For being too sexy... yess... where did put my handcuffs ... *staring absentmindedly at the poster...* I will get him ....

At the docks:

*Grace O'Malley slowly opens her eyes and sits up. She shakes her head to wake up properly* Ouch! *she feels the bump on her head with her hand and feels dizzy with pain* Not quite sure I deserved that .. *she mumbles and struggles to get back on her feet* Blimey! *she utters as she stands up and is forced to support herself against the fence along the dock* Where be a commander when ye need one? Of course those bloody people only come runnin' when ye don't wan'em te! *She gathers her strength and start walking slowly towards the town centre* I know just what will fix this bloody 'eadache...a large mug of rum at Chez Roux!

*And she is intercepted on her way before she reaches Chez Roux, by Commander Portsmith* Where have you been? Just like a typical pirate, when I need you, you just get bumped in the head!

O’Malley: Hey! I cannot be blamed for that! Where were ye commander? Ye're suppose te keep Deppville safe an' one can't even get back te one's ship without gettin' knocked out! Pride of the Deppville police-force you are!

Manouche *hidden around the corner, watches Portsmith and O'Malley arguing in front of Chez Roux* Aye, that's right, O'Malley, keep th' Commander occupied for a little while. *Slips away, goes to Ichy's house. Crouches down in front of door, digs in pockets, comes up with various things ... beads, marbles, lucky rock, corkscrew, Handi-Wipes, dental floss, key to Marijke's liquor cabinet ... looks at another key, smiles dreamily at a memory ... shakes it off, keeps searching, brightens as she finally finds what she's looking for, her Depp Army knife. Opens, tries several attachments, finally finds one to break the lock on Ichy's door. Quietly slips in, closes door, goes upstairs to bedroom. Enters, closes door behind, looks around -- stops dead in tracks to see Ichy on the bed, fast asleep.* Oops! Ahh, Constable Crane, I presume ... havin' a little lie-down? Should be on duty, shouldn't ye. It'd be a shame fer Portsmith to know yer shirkin', luv. But yer secret's safe with me. *Looks around room, opens a few drawers.* I won't be long, promise. Jus' come to retrieve a little item, deliver it to its rightful owner, savvy? *Digs in pockets of Ichy's coat, hanging on the back of the door. Smirks.* It were a cheap shot on yer part, t' be sure, Portsmith -- but it's true nonetheless, you're right as rain about me. If there's a pocket to be picked, I'm on it. *Comes up empty.* Blast! Think, Manouche, think. *Concentrates, Malachi's drug kicks in. Sees a vision, falls back slightly dizzy, regains balance ... creeps quietly over to Ichy, looks closely ... sees Ichy's right hand clenched into a fist. Pulls feather out of hat, brushes against Ichy's face ... he stirs, mumbles, turns away, opening hand to reveal locket. Manouche ever so carefully picks it up, puts it in pocket, smiles at Ichy.* Nice doin' business with ye, Constable, but I'm afraid I must be on me way. Very important engagement, as it were. Sweet dreams, mate. *Stands up, hears voices on first floor, footsteps coming up the stairs. Freezes for a second, then climbs out window. Slips, falls painfully to ground, scrambles to feet, runs to find Kat.*

At Chez Roux: Willy: *walks in to Chez Roux beaming* Hellooooooo Deppville *holds door open* Madame: *walks in, bright and smiling* Good afternoon everyone! Manouche *entering Chez Roux* Willy, Madame!! Blimey, s'good t' see ye both. Madame, yer fully recovered, I take it? What'cha need, luv, tea? Or somethin' a bit stronger? *winks, looks at Willy* An' per'aps a kir royale fer our hero, eh? *smiles* Madame: Hmm, how bout a club soda Manouche? Willy: Ok I'm admitting it. I am addicted to Kir Royales. Specially after placing a gun to someone's head. *shudders* By the way...where's Nate? And yes I'll have a Kir thank you. Manouche *returns with drinks* No worries about Nate, luv. He's locked up proper, I jus' seen him. *leans forward* Marijke, she were a bit upset at us leavin' him in 'er storage locker that night, but I believe she's gotten past all that. *holds up glass, looks at Willy fondly* Y'saved countless lives that night, mate, an' y'saved me in more ways than one. I won't ferget it. Cheers. *drinks* Odd thing about that Nate, he don't seem too concerned about his situation, which is bleak, t' say th' least. Jus' keeps laughin'. *shivers* But he won't be let loose again, Portsmith'll see t' that. I were worried about Kat ... I had some odd feelin' about her an' him ... *shakes head* By th' way, anyone seen Kat? Madame: *takes a long dirnk, glances at Manouche* Laughing? Funny how he even laughed when Willy had a gun to his head. He's just a creepy man Manouche, I don’t think there’s any worry. Pretty soon he'll have the short drop with the sudden stop and his laughing will be silenced Willy: *takes a drink, looks at Madame* That was even creepy for you to say.... Manouche: Well put, Madame m'luv! I believe there's a bit o' the pirate in both o' ye. Pirate, chocolatier ... blimey, that's quite th' pedigree fer them twins, innit? *beams at thought of the twins* Madame: Hahaha, hey, I was right Willy: What did I say about pirates? Madame: What did we say about giving the children their freedom? Willy: I just want them to be more influenced into the world of chocolate! Madame: Willy, they will live at a chocolate factory .... I think they'll be fine Manouche: A little pirate in one's system isn't an altogether bad thing, brother Willy ... I'd say it served its purpose an' suited you quite rightly the other night. Still, Madame was right t' step in. Yer not a murderer, an' that's as it should be. Willy: That was not pirate, that was because he put the lives of the citizens of Deppville in danger. Madame: There's only one other time I've ever seen you flex your strong self Willy. Willy: Oh really? When was the other time? Madame: I'm not gonna get into that.... Willy: HA! I knew it! i AM good! Madame: I'll say... Manouche: Blimey! Madame, luv, you an' I'll have t' resume the ol' girl talk again sometime soon! In private, so we don't embarrass yer poor 'usband again. *grins* This chat's makin' me miss me Mr. Blake. Woulda thought he'd be back by now. Madame: *beaming* Oh he's a strong one alright... Willy: OK ok ok... *changes topic* So where is Blake anyway? Manouche: He's off gettin' th' antidote fer that stuff I were takin'. I don't even know where he is. *sighs* Think I'll 'ave another drink ... Madame: *smiling, arches brow* What stuff? Willy: Uh...ummm...it was a medication, right Manouche? Manouche: Oh, aye! Aye, ahhh, I had a bit of a bug meself recently, Madame, luv, that's all. Had a, um, let's say adverse reaction t' some over the counter drug o' some sort. Mr. Blake, he's off to see Nobody about it. Y'know how he is, holistic by nature. Savvy? Madame: O dear, I hope all is well. Hopefully he'll be back soon. Willy: *breathes a huge sigh of relief* Manouche: I'm sure he's sound, dearest ... I'm jus' missin' him, is all. How y'feelin', are you comfy? Can I get y' another club soda? *smiles, gives subtle "apologies, luv" look to Willy* Madame: No, I'm getting tired. Willy: Ok, we'll head back home. Madame: *smiles* Thanks dear. Willy: *kisses Madame's forehead, turns to Manouche* see you in the morning! *gives a "just shutupppp dearrrrrr" look* Manouche: Sweet dreams, m'loves. *smiles, raises glass* Willy: As always *gives Manouche a hug* Madame: *smiles* good night Manouche *gives Manouche a firm hug* Willy: *links arms with Madame and walks her back to the factory for the evening* Manouche *smiles, watches them go, then sighs, shakes head* Blimey, Kidd's right. I 'ave a bloody big mouth sometimes. *pours another drink* Later, on The Libertine Trailer: Manouche *leaning back in chair, feet on table, drinking large glass of rum. Wilko the parrot flies in, lands on arm of chair.* Eh, lil' one. *scratches Wilko's head.* Quiet, innit? Everyone made an early night of it, so it seems. Willy an' Madame, too. Not surprisin', her jus' recently recovered. *Looks at Wilko* I nearly spilled it all, right in front o' Madame tonight, mate. She's usually sharp as a razor, I reckon th' illness dulled her senses a bit fer a time. Willy covered nicely, poor chap. She don't know the half o' what went on while she were indisposed, as it were, an' he'd just as soon keep it that way. He's more'n likely right. *Takes big drink, looks around to make sure curtains are drawn, holds up locket by chain.* Why's this cursed trinket got everyone so excited? Really should jus' throw it in the sea. Dunno why I don't, somethin' keeps stoppin' me. *Sets glass down, examines locket.* Kat an' Nate ... an' that bloody design, heart an' soul. Kidd's tattoo ... Blimey, wish I could ... *shakes head, squeezes eyes shut, grips chair.* Blast! *waits for pain to pass, looks at Wilko.* I-I keep seein' Kat. An' a passageway, all foggy, like that night in Fiji, truth be told. Wish it'd come more clear. A clue this vague ain't much better'n no clue at all, savvy? This stuff I got from that blackguard Malachi ... s'posed to wear off in another week. S'already fadin', fer all that th' headaches still hurt like th' very devil. Oh aye, it worked, we caught th' blighter. Well, Willy caught 'im. But there's still some unfinished business to do with this bloody locket. *Shrugs, puts it on over head, drops locket down front of shirt, reaches for glass.* I confess, s'got me so curious, I'm tempted to continue dosage, jus' one more time. *Wilko squawks, Manouche laughs.* I said tempted, mate. *Takes another long drink, is startled by sound of approaching steps. Tilts back too far, chair slides out from under her with a crash.* Bollocks! *Scrambles to feet, moves quietly to door, draws pistol. Voice whispers through door.* Manouche? Manouche, it's me, lemme in. *Wave of immense relief.* By th' stars, it's William Blake! *Throws door open, they embrace and kiss. He smiles, then holds her back, stares at her. She holds hands up.* Don't say it, luv, I know it ain't me finest hour. Once this is all over, I'll be leavin' the opiates to Inspector Abberline. Blimey, how's he manage to remain an eyeful, with such a nasty habit? Blake: You talk too much. *Kisses her again, brings forth package wrapped in brown paper.* Here's the stuff, from Nobody. He says it'll clean all the poison outta your system. He said what Malachi made up for you would prob'ly run its course on its own, but there's a chance it wouldn't, an' ... Manouche: Aye. *Nods, takes package.* What is it? Blake: Somethin' from the -- *hesitates, considering correct pronunciation* -- Tabernathe iboga plant, I think he said it is. It'll detox, an' it'll ease withdrawal symptoms. He says take it exactly as instructed, 'cause if you don't, it can be as dangerous as the drug. *Takes her in his arms.* Y' shouldn't have done it. Manouche: *Shrugs* S'done, an' it worked. *grins* Bloody smashin' yarn, too. Take note, dear one, no great story ever comes without inherent risk. Won't bring 'em to th' edge o' their seats with balanced checkbook, tea at five, bed by ten, savvy? This were th' closest Willy ever come to bein' a pirate. He'll prob'ly be tellin' it t' his gran'children. As fer you an' I, Mr. William Blake ... I'll be happy t' relay it to ye in fine detail ... after th' fireworks. *Raises eyebrows.* Blake *laughs* Get a coupla glasses, I brought some good brandy. *Pats coat pocket.* Manouche: In two shakes, luv. *He kisses her, goes inside. She takes package, sets it on chest of drawers. Opens top drawer, looks at bottle, syringes, and other pistol. whispers* 'Ello, cheerful. *Looks up, catches reflection in mirror –- pale skin, dark circles under eyes. Sighs, closes drawer, grabs two glasses, goes to Blake.* At Portsmith's office: *Meanwhile, Godley has dragged both Ichabod and Fred to Portsmith's office and enjoyed it. They are trying to come up with something before Portsmith realises that Ichabod has lost the locket.* Fred *with contempt to Ichabod* So, a spook with extraordinary strength came and wrestled the locket from you despite your brave resistance. Even the petty thieves of From Hell Court come up with better stories. I presume it was headless? With spiders? Donnie: He's been hanging with Kat, can't rely on him at all. Let me confront Kat with a sharp shovel and we'll get the truth. *Ichabod faints and Godley performs his usual reviving trick with a bucket of water.* Fred: It is not Kat who has it. I have seen it in my dream. The boat ...er .. ship I saw in my vision was not the Apparition ... Donnie: I say it's Kat, and that it would be time to rely on logic more than weird visions. Fred *looking at Donnie with distaste* The locket belongs to Kat, but she hasn't got it. By all means, search the Apparition in your useless pirate undercover disguise and get hit again with the shovel, but the locket is not there. It could be Manouche, she is always looking for trouble. It's best I'll have a talk with her. Donnie *thinks to himself* The good Inspector has had too much of the stuff he's used to, he tries to solve crimes by chatting up ladies at Chez Roux. Oh well, I'll show him how wrong he is. Might as well take a look at the Brave too. Nice chick, that Grace O'Malley ....* Even later that night at The Brave ... *Grace O'Malley sits in front of a big oak-chest filled with various items made of gold and silver, decorated with pearls and diamonds. She takes out one piece at a time, examines it carefully and sets it on the floor before making notes of it in a small, black book.* Lovely piece that is. * holding up a gold statue representing a cat with eyes made of diamonds.* That should bring in a few coins. *she concludes with a satisfactory smile. She puts it on the floor next to the other pieces and writes her notes.* *Eventually the chest is emptied and the notes has been made. O'Malley closes the little black book with a snap and stands up. She looks around on the floor that is now completely covered by the treasures, except for the small space where she is standing.* We did pretty good, eh? *she says to the white cat, Sally, that sits on the table observing O'Malley's every move. Sally stands up and stretches lazily before walking across the table towards a mug and bottle sitting on the table* No, no! Not the rum! *O'Malley shouts, waving her arms fiercely. She runs towards the cat, but trips over the treasures and falls flat down on the floor on top of the treasures, Sally running off and hiding* Bloody cat! *she mumbles as she gets up again. She brushes herself off and notices the little black book lying on the floor* Oh, best get out o' sight in case o' company. *she says and picks up the book.* Can't 'ave that bloody nosy Commander Porsmith findin' that, too much bloody evidence! It'd only lead te the short drop and sudden stop. Can't 'ave that! It'll ruin me plans to retire on Tortuga. *She stumbles across the treasures towards the writing desk in the corner and pulls out the drawer. Quickly she takes out the papers and with a knife loosens the bottom of the drawer, revealing a hidden space. She puts the book in it and puts everything back in its place and closes the drawer with a satisfactory nod.* Let's 'ave a drink before puttin' the rest away. *O'Malley says and makes her way to the table and sits down in the single chair. She grabs the bottle, fills the mug and leans back in the chair, putting her feet on the table. Seconds later Sally comes out of hiding and jumps onto O'Malley's lap* 'Ello there! *she greets the cat and strokes it, the cat instantly beginning to purr.* Alright, kitten..'ave a taste then. *she says and lets the cat drink from the mug. Suddenly, there is a knock and both Sally and O'Malley jump up* Blimey! I can't 'ave visitors now! *O'Malley mutters, looking at the treasures flooding the floor. She hurriedly starts throwing things into the oak-chest, but the stranger becomes impatient and knocks again, this time harder and a voice says:* Come on, I can hear you're in there! *O'Malley stops and listens to the voice, trying to recognize it.* Hold on there, mate! Who are ye anyway? *she asks, trying to buy more time to clear away the treasures. It's agent Donnie Brasco *the voice replies.* I need to ask you a few questions. *He tries the handle, but the door is locked.* Blimey! A man o' the law. *O'Malley thinks to herself.* 'Old on, I'll come out to yer. *she says, realizing she has no time to clear it all up. She closes the chest and goes outside.* What do ye want? Ye should know better than te to disturb a pirate when she's 'aving a drink and enjoying a quiet night. *She says, quickly closing the door behind her.* So that's what you were doing? Didn't realize drinking rum made that much noise. *Donnie remarks with a grin.* Aye, I was 'aving a drink, nothing else. Now what can I do fer yer? *She asks again, sending him her most innocent smile.* I have a few questions to ask you. What were you doing last night? *Donnie asks, looking straight into O'Malley's eyes, trying to see through the cover* I were in recovery as it were … that Nate person knocked me out, I was gone for a 'ole day! *O'Malley says without hesitation.* And I were 'aving a bit of a discussion with that bloody Commander Portsmith. *Donnie nods* Why are ye askin'? What 'appened? *She asks, generally not liking to miss out on the action.* It seems that Constable Crane has lost an important piece of evidence due to some .. uhm .. pocket-picking. *Donnie explains...wondering how much information he should give away.* It concerns a locket. Do you have it? If you just give it to me, I swear nothing will happen to you. I won't say a word to Portsmith. *he says, deciding to show a little faith in this strange woman.* A locket, eh? I..I ain't got no locket. And I were nowhere near Crane last night as it were. So there...go ask questions to someone else and leave us pirates be. *O'Malley replies, starting to feel uneasy under Donnie's intense eyes.* Hm...you seem a little jumpy...but if you're innocent, then I'm sure you won't mind if I go in and have a look around? *He tries getting passed her.* Oh bloody 'ell! *O'Malley mumbles, thinking of all the treasures lying around inside, she composes herself and goes:* I see no need for that! If ye don't believe me about me whereabouts last night, ye can ask Portsmith, she saw me. *she says and blocks the door for him, not expecting him to lift her up and move her to the side.* How dare ye! Be warned! Ye do not mess with a pirate! And that's trespasssing! *O'Malley protests in anger and fear as Donnie moves for the door-handle.* *Donnie stops in his path and turns around to face a very nervous O'Malley:* Relax! I'm only looking for the locket, I'll turn a blind eye to whatever else you have in there. *He turns and goes inside.* Damn! You've been busy! *O'Malley quickly follows* Aye.. *she simply says, running out of good explanations. Donnie searches the room with no luck.* No locket *he concludes.* Told ye... *O'Malley triumphs.* Right..well, I'll be on my way then. Sorry for the inconvenience. *he smiles and heads for the door, but is stopped by O'Malley.* Ye will keep yer promise? *she asks and Donnie nods in reasurrence.* Oh good, no worries then! I'll be off then … hope to see you again soon Grace O'Malley *Donnie says and takes off.* *O'Malley returns to the chair and her rum and as she drinks think to herself:* That's an odd thing fer a man o' the law te say te a pirate ....but awfully nice o' 'im te turn a blind eye te me treasures .. maybe not all men o' the law are bloody dogs ... maybe this one is different .. he sure did 'ave lovely brown ey... *she jumps up* Bloody 'el O'Malley! Get off that! 'E's no different! 'E were jus' 'aving an opportune moment as it were. *she calms herself and sits down again and after a while leans back and falls asleep.* At From Hell Court: Manouche *quietly leaves the Libertine Trailer, Blake sound asleep. Keeps hat low over face, takes side streets, hoping to go unseen. Arrives at From Hell Court. Ducks into one of the opium dens, walks softly to restroom in back. Enters stall, takes off coat and hat, is sweating and shaking. Removes syringe from coat, rolls up sleeve, spikes vein, feels relief from the withdrawal almost instantly.* J-jus' one more time, then I'll start th' detox. I ain't ready t' give up on this yet, I have t' know what th' locket's all about. *Steps out of stall, splashes face with cold water from sink, puts on coat and hat, stumbles out into opium den. Walks a few steps, slumps down against a bench near fireplace.* Voice: Well, look who's back. Manouche *blinks, looks up at voice coming from bench.* Ehh, Malachi. Y'ain't gonna believe this, mate, but I were hopin' I'd run into ye. *Smiles a very grim smile.* Malachi: Told y'not to overdue that stuff, y' look like hell. Manouche: Never mind how I look. I want t show you somethin'. *Reaches into shirt, pulls out locket, chain still around her neck. Holds it up.* This mean anythin' at all t' ye? Malachi *looks bored at first, then interest increases as he examines it.* Kat an' Nate ... oh yeah, this rings a bell ... *Manouche finally flashes on it, starts to remember, eyes wide. Seeing Nate in Fiji, running past her on the street, fleeing a crime scene ... Manouche coming upon the body moments later, a woman lying in a pool of blood* By th' powers, it were there, on th' ground ... next t' her. Th'-- th' police took it as evidence, asked me about it. Blimey, I didn't know anythin' about it ... Malachi: As usual. *Smirks* I remember now, a, um, associate of mine was workin' with the police back then. It disappeared from their office, they weren't happy about that, they were hopin' it would be key evidence. They interrogated you about it, though, didn't they? They were sure you took it. Where th' hell'd you get it? Or have you really had it all this time? Naah, if you'd had it then, you would've handed it over to 'em. Always cooperatin' with the wrong people, you. You never did hold up well to interrogation ... well, unless a friend was on the line. I always did say you needed to develop more of a sense of self-preservation, Manouche. You would've been a lot more worthwhile to me, in all our little transactions, if you had. Manouche *scowls, grabs locket away from him, drops back in shirt, scrambles to feet.* Much as I hate t' leave such sterling company, I have t' go. I'm riddin' us of this blasted thing once an' fer all. *Malachi laughs, lights a cigarette. She stares at him for a moment, then runs outside.* *... and bumps straight into Inspector Abberline who has been waiting for her outside* I know that you have it, Manouche. And Commander Portsmith will soon figure it out too. The Security office can be distracted for a while but they are no fools. Perhaps you could accompany me to Chez Roux. I'll get you some absinthe in exchange for a story from the far away Fiji. Manouche *tries to pull away, but Abberline holds her fast. Gives up, smiles* 'Afternoon, Inspector! Lovely day, innit? Have what? I'm sure I don't know. *sighs, mutters to self* Blimey, me life won't be worth a bloody plug nickel once Kat finds out about this. *Looks at Abberline* Absinthe, eh? I-I am thirsty, that's a fact. *allows him to take her away* Colonel Depp: *cheers/chants* Push her against a wall! Push her against a wall! *sigh* Sorry, 'bout that. You an' Blake, yes I know. Truly Devoted, don't mind me. I have the movie now, so I'll watch him push someone against the wall. *walks into Chez Roux and orders a French Vanilla Cappuccino* *sits down in corner and looks around the room* *sigh* *starts to work on some paperwork* Manouche: Blimey, Colonel, mate, who's side'er ye on?! I'm under arrest, in case ye hadn't noticed! Although, I will admit, th' Inspector does have a certain flair when it comes to pushin' people up against th' wall ... But nooo, I only have eyes fer me Mr. Blake, as ye well know, luv, havin' played matchmaker an' all. *looks at Abberline hopefully* Any chance o' me Mr. Blake postin' bail fer me, Inspector? *smile fades when Abberline doesn't respond and continues to drag her away* Colonel Depp: *heads out of Chez Roux, runs up to Inspector* Why is it your duty, Mr. Abberline, to follow orders from Portsmith, when she herself even said this case should've been addressed directly to me! Manouche: *stumbling alongside Abberline* Aye, th' Colonel does have a point, Inspector, if y'don't mind me sayin' so. Y'sure y' want to be rushin' off to pester th' Commander with all this rubbish when ye've got able-bodied Colonel here t' deal with it? Kidd: Colonel! I'm thinking you would have yer hands full with the disappearance of Kaatje. A real mystery that. Manouche: Kidd! Don't let 'em arrest me, mate! Although I could be usin' that absinthe th' Inspector promised me ... *Wonkas walk up, arms linked* Willy: Good day Manouche. And Abberline. *tips hat, arches brow suspiciously* Madame *beams at Manouche* What're you doing at this time of day? Usually you’re already inside Chez Roux! Willy: *looks suspiciously* Yes...is everything alright my dear? Kidd: Abberline, just what is it you're arrestin' Manouche for? What wrong 'as she done? Manouche: Willy, Madame! Well, it's a long story, as it were, luvs. Th' Inspector here, he feels we have a few items of importance to discuss, savvy? Nothin' to worry about, I'm sure. However ... Willy, mate, can y' suggest a reliable solicitor? I may be in need ... Willy: Really? Inspector...what do you have against my sister? Has she done anything wrong? If so, being of my status I believe I should know. *Kidd taking advantage of the Wonkas distraction, leans toward Manouche, whispering.* Slip me the locket, mate, quick. Manouche *looks at others, quickly unfastens chain from around neck, passes locket to Kidd, whisperrs* Ch-cheers, mate, take care, I hope y' know what yer doin'. Run. Colonel: Kidd, just so you know, I'm the multi-tasking pyrate. I can handle a lot of things at once. Just don't confuse me, savvy? I can work on Kaatje case and this whole locket ordeal. *smiles broadly, pulls Manouche away from Inspector, sets her aside momentarily. Walks over to Inspector, hands behind back, head slightly tilted, looks down nose at Inspector* Portsmith, seems like she treats you like a criminal yerself. Lemme take this case off yer hands. I don't want you t' be worrying about it, savvy? *Motions forward a bit, trying not to get too close and Continues through clamped teeth* Interrogating someone, just because they are a pirate, not only is that rude, but you don't really know what all this is about. *Stands back and 'inspects' the Inspector* *Stands at ease and continues knowingly* You have heart, but not enough. You need to understand and get down to their level. *Inspector raises a brow* I don't mean to pillage and plunder! Alright, I'll make it simple for you. You, Donnie and Portsmith are very harsh. You don't give these people a sense of security, I mean they are being questioned and the Law does sneak it's way in, but you have to be secure about it. Make them not feel bad, and maybe, just maybe they'll confess once they see that you are...well I'll leave it at that. *waves hands in the air in a mimicking way* Since yer so smart, maybe you'll figure it all out, eh? Now if you don't mind, Manouche and I have some issues to discuss. The matter is in my own hands, I'm afraid. Portsmith was right, it should've been handed over directly to me. *Walks to office with Manouche in tow* *Abberline gives a shrug, grabs a bottle of absinthe and decides to return to his cosy opium den. Manouche *to Wonkas* Willy, mate, Madame, luv! No worries, alright? S'all sound, we'll work this out. Madame, take care o' yerself. *tries to fall into step with Colonel, still shaky from the drug* Willy: Manouche, do you REALLY think I'm gonna let it slide? Madame: No, come on dear, Colonel can handle it ... let's go into Chez Roux for dinner! Willy: *looks at Manouche, pauses, trusts her, smiles* Ok, let me know if you need any help Manouche! *escorts Madame to Chez Roux* Manouche *Follows Colonel to office* Colonel, mate, I ah ..... I do get one phone call if I need it, don't I? Colonel *sits in chair behind desk and looks at Manouche. Motions head towards phone* Go ahead. Manouche: Oh. No, won't need it just yet, mate. I'll save it in case I need t' call Willy. I reckoned, first I'd get some idea o' what's to transpire, here. Would I be needin' a solicitor, or is this an informal chat between me an' me mate, the Colonel? If it's not th' latter, then I'd best call Chez Roux an' inquire t' Willy fer legal counsel. Savvy? *looks around office, shivering slightly* Colonel, y' happen t' have a nip o' somethin' handy? I'm bloody thirsty, it's .... well, it's been a long day, as it were. Colonel *gets up and walks into another room* What would be best? I won't be making you feel like a criminal, I've read th' notes. I know who has it....now. *looks around and goes to chest in the corner, grabs bottle out of it. Reads note on bottle to Manouche as she walks out* Brittany, Left this behind in case Manouche or Kidd or yourself needed a lil help from the bottle. Drink up. Drink wisely. Don't spend it all on one place. -- Raoul Duke But that's not what I'm worried about. The trinket, can you tell me what the story is behind it? *takes out some glasses* Think of it as a talk between mates. It's alright Manouche. I'm not here to judge. I may be Officer now, but I won't arrest ye. *holds up three fingers* Scouts Honour. *hands bottle to Manouche* Consider it a gift from the long lost Duke. Speaking of which, he called t'day. But you should go. I'm done here. Nothing more. *Takes quick sip* Take the bottle with ye. Manouche *smiles, takes bottle* Ahh, that Duke, he's a gent o' high order, that'un. *takes long drink, leans back in chair. Looks at Colonel* D-did y'just say I should go? Y'change yer mind, then? I'll go, if y' insist, but what's that all about? *looks at her carefully* Y' got somethin' on yer mind, mate, out with it. Unless y'really prefer t' be left on yer onesies. Officer ye may be, but yer also a mate, an' I haven't fergotten yer story that helped bring together Mr. Blake an' me. Somethin' about Duke? Hanson? This gab about th' trinket can wait ... No, no changed me mind. All is right. Everything is fine. *points at Manouche* Stay! Alright, let's have another drink shall we. Ok trinket, forgotten. Something on my mind, umm well, not sure. *leans back in chair* I'm fine, really I ahhhhhm. BANG! *Colonel hits the floor* Manouche: BY TH' POWERS!!!! *Drops to floor, cradling bottle protectively. Sets it aside, listens, hears footsteps running away. Draws pistol, slowly stands, walks over to door cautiously, peeks around, sees no one. Puts pistol away, rushes to Colonel's side, crouches down, shakes her gently.* Colonel? COLONEL? My God, Colonel, y' been shot. Steady, mate. *tears fill her eyes, she wipes them away quickly. Stands up, picks up phone, calls 911.* Aye, Colonel's office, send an ambulance straight away. 'COURSE it's a bloody emergency, y'twit! HURRY!! *Feels a presence behind her, turns to see Nate standing in the doorway, holding a gun on her. She puts her hands up, he takes her pistol away and leads her out of the office* *Kidd backing away from the group, ducks down alley and flees. Finally, pausing to take a breath, turns to make sure she wasn't followed, no one in sight. Much relieved she turns to proceed, only to find herself looking down the barrel of a gun. Fearfully she looks past the gun to who holds it. Swallows hard.* Wilmot? Spook/Wilmot: Guess again! Kidd: Shadrack! What do you want? Shadrack: You'll be findin' that out soon enough. I got a place for ye I got it all picked out, just for ye real private it is. I will 'ave me answers as to why Kat threw me out. I know yer behind it and it be ye that will be fixin' it. Savvy? Now let's go. Move it! Kidd: *sitting in the darkness of a room with boarded up windows, listens for any sound that would reveal Shadrack/Wilmots presence, hearing none, she once again tries to loosen the boards on the windows with little result. Finally screaming loudly* ANYBODY OUT THERE? SOMEBODY HELP.I'M TRAPPED IN HERE!! *Listens for some sign of an answer, nothing* I've gotta get out a here somehow! WOULD SOMEBODY PLEASE COME GET ME OUT OF HERE!!!! AFORE THAT BLASTED SPOOK GETS BACK!!!!! *After many hours of hammering on a board on the window it finally gives way and Kidd manages to squeeze through the narrow opening, running back to Deppville in search of a weapon and Manouche. Back at Colonel's office: Kidd: Lisa what be wrong? *still breathing hard. Looking past Lisa sees Colonel on floor* Lisa did you call an ambulance? Oh jeez Manouche were with her! *Rushes out into the night in search of Portsmith. Kidd trips over an unseen stone, curses, gets to her feet not realizing that in the fall, the locket slipped from her pocket onto the ground, arriving at Portsmith’s office only a few steps away she finds no one there and heads back out to look elsewhere. Taking a shortcut through an alley to Chez Roux, she runs into two figures* Portsmith be that ye? *Nate and Manouche, in dark alley, hear Kidd approaching.* Nate: Keep yer mouth shut, mind, no warnin's, or ye'll both be dead, savvy? *Holds gun at Manouche's head.* Kidd: Portsmith, be that ye? Answer me! *moves closer trying to see. Nate and Manouche rise, approach Kidd.* Nate: Put yer 'ands up. *cocks pistol at Manouche's head* One o' ye 'as somethin' o' mine, an' I'm through wit' th' bleedin' runaround, savvy? Let's 'ave it. No one be carin' about two less pirates in these parts. Kidd: Oh sweet jeez! Out a fryin' pan into the fire! Nate *pushes them both against a wall, holds gun on them.* Right. Hand it over, let's have that locket. Manouche *to Kidd* Don't do it, mate. Somethin' about it, if he's wantin' it that bad. Nate: Y'can give it over either horizontal or vertical, no difference t' me. *looks at Kidd* So you 'ave it, is that it? Kidd: In me pocket, just let me reach in me pocket and I'll give it te ye, just don't shoot! *reaches into pocket and finds nothing there. Frantically searches other pockets, nothing.* I had it I swear. Must a dropped it. We just gotta retrace me path, thats all. Just don't shoot. We'll find it I swear! Manouche *trembling* Ahhh, Kidd, y'lost it?? B-bloody 'ell ... Nate: Sorriest excuse fer pirates I ever did see. Right, 'ere's what we're gonna do. I can't be traipsin' all over town wi' th' pair o' ye. *indicates Kidd* YOU are gonna retrace yer bloody steps all night if ye'ave to, find tha' damn thing. *grabs Manouche* WE are retirin' to this'un's boat -- Manouche: Ah, ship. Nate: *shakes her* -- SHIP, blast ye ... where we'll be waitin' fer ye. Come back w' the locket, an' maybe, jus' maybe, ye'll both come outta this alive. If y'don't find it ... *shakes Manouche again* ... this'un's history. *looks at Kidd* An' ye'll follow 'er soon enough. There'll be nowhere y'can hide from me, mate. An' don't think about bringin' help, I'll see y'comin' long before, an' this'un's brains'll be all over that lovely ... SHIP. *smiles sneeringly, then scowls* Now GO, an' be quick about it. Manouche *to Kidd* Y-y' might wanna pick up a good flashlight, mate, ah, do th' job right. *Nate takes her in direction of her ship.* Kidd *fearfully watches them go, then turns to begin her search. Rushing into the night praying that she can find it in time. Not knowing what else to do. Their lives depend on it* An interlude … Commander Portsmith is intently staring at a reward poster and muttering to herself, yes, definitely too sexy... got to arrest him for that... even though he is the Mayor.. Yes, Colonel, whatever it is, do please go on, I have very urgent matter... could I really get him handcuffed... the padded cell ... On the locket trail: Donnie stoops down and picks up a locket, looks at it and pockets it. Kinda thing a pirate might fancy.... gets a bright idea and heads towards the Brave... Kidd *out of breath and energy, leans against wall trying to figure out what to do next, unable to find locket. Seeing Donnie leaning over picking something up off the ground* HEY Donnie? What's that ye got there? I've lost something I need very badly. What is it ye 'ave thee? Portsmith: It seems what you lost is you lost your breath, Kidd. Now be a nice pirate and stroll back to your ship. Kidd: Portsmith! Ye don't understand, he's gonna kill her if I don't get that locket for him, aye and me too!!! *Abberline staggers from the shadows with a greenish bottle in his hand, smoking a badly rolled cigarette, grabs Kidd by the arm.* It's bloody empty ... They just threw me off the case can you believe that ... So I figured it's the end of the matter and let that guy out of the prison. Didn't even thank me, rushed away as possessed by the devil. Do you think it might have been the Masons behind all? Donnie doesn't bother to wait, he goes to the port... Kidd: DAMN!!! *looks quickly around spots shovel leaning on a wall grabs it and runs after Donnie, catches him and BAM!* Sorry I gotta 'ave that locket. Life or death, luv. life or death! Nate *gun on Manouche, both of them watching from The Libertine Trailer* Who's that? Manouche: T-that's Donnie Brasco, a cop ... Blimey, there's Kidd! Nate: Don't make a sound or you're dead. Manouche *whispering, trembling* "Some are born to sweet delight ... " BANG! *Nate goes limp, slumps down, gun falls to deck.* Blake *from behind, smoking gun* " ... some are born to endless night." Manouche *yelling from ship* KIDD, IT'S SOUND, MATE!! BLAKE GOT 'IM! *Kidd makes mad dash for the docks* WHAT? Got 'im. Ye mean I done nailed Donnie with a shovel for nothin'? Jeez! Blake *crouches down next to Nate* He's still alive. We could call a very slow ambulance. *stands up, takes Manouche in his arms* Manouche *to Kidd* No worries, mate, we'll get ye th' best solicitor in town, I'll ask Willy. Y'won't be locked away fer this'un, it was an emergency, as it were. Kidd: Wait Donnie didn't see who done it. hmmm I'll get me 'ome and play innocent! *rushing off* Manouche: Blimey, yer right, Kidd, brilliant. That's why yer th' captain an' I'm th' crew, mate! *Shadrack/Wilmot stands out of sight watching Kidd run off* Bitch! Now I wonder what she was about on that ship. Blake *ties Nate's hands behind his back, looks at Manouche* One of us has to watch him, an' one of us has to go call someone to come get him. Portsmith, ambulance ... I'd just as soon it was the undertaker. Manouche *shivering* I'll- I'll stay. Blake *shakes head* I'm not about to leave you alone with him. Manouche: He's wounded, he's tied up, what can he do? I'm so tired, luv, I don't know if I can make it t' the nearest bloody phone ... which I reckon would be at Chez Roux. There's also th' consideration that I'm more of a target than you right now, savvy? I were last seen in the Colonel's office, she's been shot ... an' I know fer fair that Abberline were far from through with me. If I run into him, he may detain me, he may not believe me. He ain't too keen on pirates t' begin with. You, on th' other hand, can walk to Chez Roux without anyone so much as battin' an eye. I'm exhausted, luv, but I have a gun, I know how to use it, an' he's not goin' far in his condition. If ye'd be so kind as to hand me th' pistol ... aye, th' one Nate has, it's mine, he took it from me. That one on th' floor next t' him, that's his. Blake *hesitates* I don't like this. *gives her the pistol, sets Nate's gun on the table, kisses her.* Don't take your eyes off him for a second. Manouche *smiles* Go on, hurry back. *Blake leaves, she looks down at Nate.* Blimey, I gotta get a blasted cell phone. *Shadrack observes a man leaving the same ship watches him disappear, decides to have a look to see what's going on. Boards ship searches until he sees a woman with her back to him, quietly slips up behind her, realizes she has a gun in her hand. Hesitates, then swiftly grabs her from behind reaching around and grabbing the gun from her hand, she twists in his arms, and for the briefest second Wilmot thoughts shimmer through and are gone. Shadrack/Wilmot smiles* Remember me? Manouche: B-by th' powers, WILMOT. Aye, I reckon I remember ye, it'd be hard t' ferget a tete-a-tete like that ... *looks at him carefully, blinks, shakes head* Y-y' look different, somehow. Is it tha' blasted drug ..... *eyes widen* You--you're not Wilmot ... my God, KAT ......... *yells, struggles to get away* Shadrack: *sighs* Pity that I were hopin for easy answers, but answers I'll 'ave. *points gun at her head* Savvy? *over her shoulder he sees man tied up* What be goin' on 'ere and who might that be? Best answer luv I be not a patient man! Manouche: *trembling* Th-that's ... name's Nate, he's ... he escaped from jail, he was --- lookin' fer somethin' as it were, but it ain't 'ere. *looks down at Nate, who's smiling again* Ahhh ... oh, awake, are we? *indicates Shadrack/Wilmot* This is .... bloody 'ell, I couldn't tell ye who this is --- e-easy with th' gun, mate. Who are ye ... wh-what's yer business w' Kat?? *swallows hard* Shadrack: AHHHH...Nate, I've 'eard a great deal bout ye mate. *smiles, looks down at Manouche raises gun brings it down on her head; she slides to the floor unconscience.* Sorry luv. Now Nate I understand you've been leavin' bodies all o're town as it were. I'm thinkin' we could mayhap be of some service to each other. Nate:*laughs* What is it you have in mind. Anything to get free I'll more than willing to do. Shadrack: Very well then there's a man named Crane that I'd would much perfer dead. But heres the rub, it's my understandin' that you be out to kill Kat. Don't! I 'll not allow that to 'appen, savvy? In return I set you free. Do we 'ave an accord? Nate: Well as things stand I have little choice my friend. We have an agreement. *Shadrack unties Nate and helps him off the ship taking him to a place where he won't be found.* At Chez Roux: Blake *enters Chez Roux* Anybody here? *no answer, walks over to phone, dials 911, puts in call to police. Shakes head at deadpan operator-types on phone.* Nothin's an emergency to them. Guess they've heard it all. *starts back to ship, is some distance away when he sees Shadrack and Nate running away.* Oh my god ... *races to ship, sees Manouche lying unconscious, picks her up, takes her in cabin and settles her on small couch. Looks around helplessly, wonders if he should give chase, reluctant to leave Manouche.* Where are the damn police, what's takin' 'em so long?? A recap from Marja: Colonel Depp has been shot, so I figure Hanson is with her. Inspector Abberline stumbled into a very disreputable den, Donnie's been hit on the head once again, and we suppose that Ichabod has gone under cover (in his bed) and fainted there. As for Commander Portsmith, she was last seen with some kind of reward poster (looked a lot like the Mayor) and a glazed look... Kidd: Now that sounds interesting, sounds like poor Fred be much neglected. hmmmm. I do believe I'll have a look for him and offer a bit of conciliation as it were... Pam: Portsmith!! I'm not so sure you should be so focused on the Mayor at the moment. There are things here demanding your attention. Nate has escaped from jail ... and Kidd, well who knows what'll happen with Kidd if you're not around. Remember, the famous and infamous all have their nemeses ... Holmes had Moriarty ... Superman had Lex Luthor ... Tom had Jerry ... Martin had Lewis ... or was that the other way around ...

At the Security Office Building: