|
At the beach:
*Godley, Abberline and Raven watch Malachi walk away*
Godley: Are you satisfied now? There goes a man who has helped you, and who may be of assistance to all of us. You had no right to talk to him like that. This is not for you alone to decide.
Abberline: What do you want me
to do? Apologize? He doesn't know
...
Godley: No, you are right about that,
he doesn't know. But you do. You
know, don't you. *Looks suspiciously at Abberline* It is as
if you would not like to destroy it at all. Why?
Abberline *sighs* Believe me, I want it gone.
Godley: We can catch up with him still.
Abberline: Let him go.
Godley: Why don't you want to share your
knowledge? Are you holding back something?
Abberline *snaps* All right. I'll go to the Commander and demand my files, and find Kat and Manouche.
You'll see for yourself what the problem is. Are you satisfied?
Godley: No need to get offended. *sighs* To the Office then. But I still don't understand why you are always so touchy with him.
He seems like a good man to me.
Abberline *to Raven* Would you go to Manouche
and Blake?
Raven *stares at Abberline, his expression changing from fear to defiance. He
frowns, steps back from Abberline and Godley, shimmers, turns into white raven, flies away.*
Godley: You lost him!
Abberline: I don't think I ever had him.
Godley: Let him go, too?
Malachi *having left the beach, approaches Chez Roux, feeling very much in
need of a drink. Hears noise above, looks up to see the white raven flying away from the beach, heading inland.
As he flies by, a feather comes loose, flutters down; Malachi snatches it from the air before it hits the ground. Gazes
at it a moment, shakes his head.* Poor lil' chap. *places feather in pocket, walks into Chez Roux.*
At Portsmith’s office:
Portsmith:
Corso, listen to this! *reads* "I asked how the box could be destroyed,
and he said the box could be burned if it was first opened with a very special key, unique to each box, and it would have
to be burned from the inside. The old shaman said that he had when young witnessed such
a ceremony at the old circle temple that now is hidden. The other man said that
boxes were never burnt because that damaged the key. I asked them what use there
was of any key once the box was gone, but they just snickered at me. So I can't
be sure...."
*Inspector
Abberline opens the door to his own office, and forgets the files for a moment. Someone
has gathered all his belongings in a cardboard box. On top of the papers is the
photograph of Victoria that he
has kept hidden in a drawer. He picks up the photo and puts it in his pocket,
and goes immediately to Portsmith's office and hears what the Commander has been reading.*
Abberline: You have no right to take my papers, Commander!
Corso: How
nice of you to visit us, Inspector. Since you haven't been using your office
lately and I needed a bigger one, I thought we might make a swap ...
Portsmith *looks up* I have every right to do that. All documents belong to the
Office, Inspector. In your absence, all your duties are assigned to Dean Corso. It is you who has no rights here.
At Manouche and Blake’s house:
Manouche *next morning, sits on patio, wrapped up in a blanket, looking out
at the river. She’s deep in troubled thought, barely aware of the beautiful morning.*
Blake *comes out from house, leans over, kisses her cheek. Takes chair
next to hers, hands her cup of coffee* Feelin’ better? Are you warm enough?
Manouche: Aye …
Blake *smiles slightly* You gave me a hell of a scare last night.
You don’t remember any of it?
Manouche: No … I don’t remember anythin’ after goin’
t’ bed. *drinks coffee, leans forward, gazing at the river, voice barely above a whisper* Mr. Blake, sometimes
I think I’m losin’ me mind …
Blake *sets coffee down, stands up, squeezes into chair with her, wraps arms
around her* Honey, I don’t know what’s goin’ on, but … you’re gonna be all right.
Manouche *blinks back tears* I’m not so sure, love … sometimes
I think … I think I should …
Blake *cuts her off* Don’t say it.
Manouche *starts to respond, but is interrupted by a sound above. They
look up, see fluttering of wings, watch Raven swoop down and shimmer into himself. He walks over to Manouche’s
side* Blimey, lil’ mate! What’re ye doin’ ‘ere? I thought ye was with yer dad …
Raven *eyes dark and solemn* He an’ Sergeant Godley are goin’
to the office. He told me to come here …
Manouche *looks at him carefully* Right, out with it. What’re
ye not tellin’ me? Y’didn’t run away from ‘im, did ye? ‘Cause that would hurt him
terrible.
Raven *looks down* No, he did tell me to come here. But I was mad
at him. He yelled at Malachi, but Malachi was just tryin’ to help. An’ they were all of ‘em
talkin’ about everything like … like I wasn’t even there …
Manouche *puts arm around his shoulders, draws him close* Ahh, pay it
no mind, luv. They’re jus’ upset, savvy? We’re all tryin’ to find answers to th’
same bloody problem, an’ we keep runnin’ into walls, as it were. Makes everyone a bit testy after awhile.
Y’understand that, don’t ye? *Raven nods, eyes still downcast* Where’s yer mum?
Raven: I went to her house before I came here. She’s not
there … I don’t know where she is.
Manouche: I’m glad ye checked in with ‘er first.
Yer place is with yer parents. However, if neither of ‘em are about … ye always ‘ave a place here,
luv, y’know that. *Raven wraps arms around her neck, she smiles* There, there, no worries. Tell ye
what … why don’t you an’ Mr. Blake ‘ere go to th’ kitchen, put together a few edibles, an’
bring ‘em out ‘ere? We’ll ‘ave brekkie al fresco, like th’ bloody rich an’ famous.
*leans closer to him* I musta known ye was comin’, ‘cause yesterday, I made some o’ them chocolate
chip scones ye like so much. Bring a few o’ those out with ye, alright? *winks*
Raven *nods, then looks closely at her* What’s wrong?
Manouche *smile falters slightly, then she recovers* No more’n
th’ usual, luv. Put it all aside, now, an’ let’s ‘ave a bite. Savvy?
Blake *stands up, smiles at him* C’mon, son.
Raven: Okay. *Turns, he and Blake head for the house, then he turns
around* Manouche … I dreamed in circles last night.
Manouche: Circles? Ah well, that happens t’ me all th’
time, lil’ mate. I’m always ‘avin’ dreams that don’t make sense …
Raven: No, I don’t mean that. I mean I kept seein’
circles … like wheels. *stares at her for a moment. Then shrugs, grins boyishly. Looks up at Blake,
they go into the house*
Manouche *drops back in chair, sighs* ‘Course ye did. Why
does that not surprise me? *takes another drink of coffee, sings softly* Lil’ wheel, spin an’ spin,
big wheel turn around an’ around …
Kat *with Dimitri, approaches Manouche's door.
He stops and seems lost in thought, she watches him, curious* What's wrong?
Dimitri: It's your Inspector. He seems to have encountered a problem.
Kat *With a pained look* Get it straight,
'es not my anything, savvy? What kind of problem?
Dimitri: Don't worry, he'll be fine.
Kat: I'm not worried. I don't care.
Dimitri *laughs* You know that you are
allowed to have feelings, even to show them on occasion.
Kat *glares at him* You're crazy. I don't 'ave a clue what you're on about.
Dimitri: I didn't say that you're in
love with him but you in no way hate him. Despite all your pretenses, you respect,
trust and even like him. You have issues, love, that keep him and others at a
distance.* Dimitri turns toward door* But
there'll be plenty of time for dealing with that in the future.
Kat *seething* What makes ye so sure
of everything??
Dimitri *looks back, smiles* Psychic. *Knocks on door*
Blake *answers door* Kat! *looks at Dimitri curiously, opens door, motions them in* C’mon
in. Manouche is out back … Raven’s here too. Abberline had some business … I think he went to the office.
*turns to Dimitri, holds hand out* Don’t think we’ve met. William Blake.
Kat *nods to Blake but remains silent*
Dimitri *shakes Blake's hand warmly, glances at Kat*
Kat appears to have lost her tongue. *grins* A pleasure to meet you Mr. Blake. Just call me Dimitri. I'm most anxious to meet the Magi. *Looking
toward the back of the house. In the back, you say. With your permission. *Steps past Blake, heads out the back,
locates Manouche immediately. Walks up to her with his hand out, smiling.* You would be the Magi Dreamer I've heard about, then.*
Manouche *looks up from chair, jumps up, startled, spilling coffee on herself* Blast! *sets cup down, mops up some of
the coffee with part of the blanket, readjusts it over her shoulders; stares at Dimitri, wary.
Slowly reaches her hand out to take his, hesitates. Though she’s
not sure why, before she takes his hand, she decides to use a power of her subconscious that Alifi taught her; she closes
her eyes, concentrates, buries deep all thoughts of the box and its location -- as she has been doing when communicating with
Raven to protect him from the danger of having that information. She opens her
eyes, relaxes somewhat, and takes Dimitri’s hand.* A-aye … I’m
Manouche … who’re you, an’ what brings ye here?
Dimitri *shakes his head sadly* You're
as bad as Kat. Always hiding. If
there's no trust to be had, I can't help. *His hand tightens on hers, draws her
to her feet. Almost pleadingly says* Look
into my eyes. I'll show you who and what I am.
There is no evil in me. Look deeply, see for yourself, Dreamer. Use your talent and see the truth.
Manouche *eyes lowered, trembling* Apologies,
luv. I weren’t always like this.
It’s certain situations I been through as of late, they’ve left me a bit skittish, t’ say th’
least. An’ there are certain secrets I harbor that must remain so. Not necessarily a question o’ trust, mate, but more security, safety …
leverage. Savvy? *looks at his hand* Though I mus’ say, yer hand feels right t’ me. *glances up at him, smiles, quickly looks down again* That
sounds a bit daft, don’t it? But ye can tell a lot about a person by their
hand, their touch. *smile fades* Most
strangers’ hands that’ve been laid on me ‘ere recently ‘aven’t been so kind. *a tear falls from her eye onto his hand that continues to grasp hers.
She sighs, slowly raises her head, looks into his eyes; sees that they’re deep dark brown, warm, kind. Her anxiety dissolves, and she smiles broadly* Blimey, so
it’s true … no evil in ye that I can see, t’ be sure. An’
a few secrets of yer own, eh? No worries, they’re safe with me. *she squeezes his hand, relaxes considerably* What’s
yer name, then? What brings ye into this sorry mess, an' what assist can ye offer?
At Portsmith’s office:
Portsmith *continues to dress down Abberline, and not in a good way!* In fact, I could arrest you if I want.
Abberline: On what charges would that
be?
Portsmith: Neglecting your duties. Giving out valuable information to pirates.
You haven't been exactly what I could call trustworthy. Tampering with
evidence. Disrespect. Your
arrogant attitude. Do I have to go on?
Corso: You have put us all in danger
by keeping all this information. Just to think that you knew all this and just
kept us in the dark and guessing.
Abberline *wearily* Well, arrest me then. And keep on guessing.
Portsmith *suspiciously* What are you
trying to say?
Corso: He's just bluffin'. We'll put you in the cell with Nate, or Marchand or whoever that is ...
*Portsmith is about to answer when they hear a shout from the lockup. It is Sergeant Godley.*
Goldey: He's escaped! The prisoner is gone!
*Corso turns pale with fright and rushes out, Portsmith jumps up and runs to the lockup,
where he meets an agitated Godley - and the prisoner still in his cell*
Portsmith: What's the meaning of this!
Godley: Pardon me, it was a false alarm. There was no one guarding here, and for a moment it seemed that there was no one in
the cell. The sun must have got into my eyes.
*Portsmith just gives him a glare and returns to his office. It is empty. And the files are gone.*
Godley *to Abberline, safely out of the office*
Did you get them?
Abberline: Yes. Thanks.
Godley: Where are you going now? Seems that you have today managed to irritate everyone you’ve met. Including me. No, wait, there's Manouche ...
Abberline: I could use a rest, and keep
low for a while. *Attempts to turn to From Hell Court*
Godley: I agree with you, Inspector,
I agree, but you are going to wrong way. I know what you are thinking. No way. We'll go to Manouche.
*leads him to Manouche's and Blake's house*
Abberline *worried* What if Raven's not
there?
Godley: You'll have more to worry about
if he is there. What happened on the …
Abberline: All right, all right, I haven't
been much of a father to him.
*Godley knocks on the door.*
At Manouche and Blake's house:
Dimitri *has gained Manouche’s trust.
Relieved returns her smile* Thank you, dear lady. I offer my gifts and talents in the retrieval of the dark box. *Kat
and Blake exit the house and are watching. Dimitri's eyes meet Kat's* I will make the first sacrifice in the black circle. That
is my destiny.
Blake *hears a knock at the door, shakes head*
Grand Central Station here today ...
Manouche *watches Blake go inside to answer the door.
Turns back to Dimitri, frowns* I'm not too keen on that word 'sacrifice,'
mate. What's t' be sacrificed, an' what's th' black circle?
Blake *returns into house, walks through to front door, opens it, sees Abberline and
Godley* Inspector, Sergeant ... come on in.
Manouche is out on the patio, an' ... well, we have other guests. *ushers
them in, looks at Abberline* Raven's in his room, I can get him for you, if you
like. Ahh, you don't mind that we keep a room for him, do you? We don't want to overstep any boundaries ... we just always want him to know he's welcome to stay with
us anytime. You know Manouche, she's so crazy about him. An' .... *grins* ... well, I'm pretty fond of him myself.
*Godley exchanges a glance with Abberline and goes to the patio*
Abberline: No, no, I don't mind
it at all, on the contrary, I am sure this is the best place for him ... He needs a home.
And he's fond of you ... *embarrassed*
I don't think he's very fond of me at the moment. Did he tell you anything? Look, Blake, I was acting incredibly stupid today towards him … I doubt' he’d
want to see me. *Looks after Godley, but he's already out; sees an opportune
moment to get where he wants to go* Actually, if you have guests, I don't want
to be intruding.
Blake *looks at Abberline intently* Oh,
he didn't say much. I think he was feelin' kinda shut out from what was goin'
on yesterday. I don't know much more than that.
But, hell, you know how kids are, Inspector, they get over things like that after awhile, as long as we let 'em know
it wasn't intentional. C'mon, let's go see what he's up to. *puts a firm hand on a reluctant Abberline's shoulder, guides him down hallway to Raven's room. They peek inside, see that Raven has fallen asleep on the floor while drawing. Blake leans over, picks up a sheet of paper, shows it to Abberline.
It's a picture Raven has made of Abberline, surprisingly good for a child his age, with "Father" scrawled across the
top.* I'd say he's plenty fond of you, Inspector. *grins*
Abberline *takes the picture, looks at it and turns away from Blake to hide how moved
he is* Oh … but the problem is that I don't know how kids are. Seems I have a lot of learning to do. *sighs* Let him sleep. *glances sideways at Blake* I am overreacting, ain't I? *exits the room. Sergeant Godley appears at the door and motions him to come out to the patio, where Dimitri is talking
to Manouche*
Dimitri: The black circle is in the dark
circle temple and is where the box must be returned. The sacrifice I refer to
is actually more of a rebirth. One I've known was coming all my life. Nothing
to worry about. *almost to himself, whispers*
The two will become one. *his eyes on Kat*
Manouche: Oh, aye, that explains
it. *shakes her head* Will this
destroy th’ box, render it harmless, or both? An’ I’m findin’
it curious that y’ keep lookin’ at Kat at certain opportune intervals throughout yer explanations. Has this ‘rebirth’ as ye call it got something t’ do with ‘er? *turns to Kat* Kat, luv, what do ye know about all this? Yer strangely silent. *turns back to
Dimitri* It ain't that I don't trust ye, mate.
But truth be told, yer engagin' in riddlespeak every bit as much as Ama ...
Kat: I know naught of what 'e
speaks. What I do know is 'e scares the 'ell outta me. I think I'll leave 'em for ye to figure out. I'm for my ship. *Turns and makes her escape.*
Dimitri: *frustrated* I have to
go after her. This isn't going well at all.
Pardons. *Rushes out to follow Kat.*
Manouche *blinks* Blimey, were I dreamin’
again? What was that all about? *glances
around, sees Abberline and Godley* Inspector, Sergeant! Apologies, I didn’t know ye were ‘ere. I, ah …
*brings hand up to head* … feel like I was in a trance fer a minute or
two … *shakes head to clear it, looks at Abberline* ‘Ave ye come to collect lil’ mate? I reckon Kat's still a bit too ... preoccupied to
'ave him with 'er.
Blake *standing behind Abberline and Godley*
Raven’s asleep, we decided not to disturb him. Would either of you
care for some coffee? *smiles* Manouche
is having hers with a shot of kahlua, if you’re interested.
Godley *wiping his forehead* Sure, Blake,
I am in need of refreshments. Er ... you wouldn't have any of those chocolate
croissants?
Abberline *looks after Kat* So
it would seem. Nothing new. On the
run once again ... *then he looks at Manouche, concerned* Manouche? Are you all right?
Manouche *to Godley* Sergeant, today
we ‘ave pain au chocolat … chocolate scones, which I reckon ye’ll find equally pleasin’. *starts to go inside, weaves unsteadily, slowly drops back down in chair*
Ahh, Mr. Blake, would ye please go fetch more scones an’ coffee, an’ bring th’ kahlua bottle? I’m feelin’ a bit lightheaded. *looks
at Abberline* Cheers, mate, jus’ recoverin’ from a bit of a nightmare
last night, is all. *runs hand through hair*
I dunno … I ‘ave a feelin’ somethin’s not right somewhere … *smiles slightly* Pay me no mind, luvs, jus’ more o’ me nonsense, no doubt. B-but I will be takin’
a bit more o’ that coffee.
*Blake returns, pours out more coffee for Manouche, adds a shot of kahlua. The others help themselves. Manouche hides her smile as she
watches Godley, who takes three scones and sighs contentedly after he bites into one.*
Abberline: Something not right somewhere
– that's nothing out of the ordinary. *takes a scone; he hasn't been eating
anything in a long while, just drinking. Eats half of it, then forgets it as
he lights a cig.*
Godley *grabs some more on his plate* Who
makes all these?
Abberline *smiles at Godley, then becomes serious again* I was at the Office,
and it seems I lost my job and the only way I'll be returning back is to the lockup ... I found my files but I don't think
they are very useful. Do you have anything new?
Manouche *grins* Sergeant, it’s
a pleasure t’ see me cookin’ so appreciated! I made ‘em, an’
there’s plenty more. *to Abberline*
So th’ Commander is through with ye? Her loss, mate. I reckon we should be glad she didn’t arrest ye on th’ spot.
*pauses* Me, I ‘ave nothin’ but a few lines from me dream
last night. *glances at Blake* I
were sleepwalkin’, weren’t I, love? Walkin’ out into th’
bloody river, of all things. Apparently, I said somethin’ that Mr. Blake
figured may be worth recallin’, so he wrote it down right after he got me back in the house, safe an’ sound.
Blake *grabs piece of paper on nearby table, reads:*
When the wheel is turned, the two will become one.
The heart that will have
burned, a soul that is to be won.
Blood of the magi to bind, the dreamer that combines.
Manouche: He says I said other stuff,
too … songs, with th’ subject o’ wheels prominent in their lyrics.
An’ … *stops, shivers*
I been tryin’ to remember more, but I can’t. Can’t remember
what I saw, anything I heard ... an’ who’s to say why I was headin’ into th’ river. Th’ only other thing I recall is … *lowers voice* …
I thought I heard Nate laughin’.
Blake *to Abberline* You got your files
back, an’ they’re of no use? Are you sure? After all that investigation, all that research … Inspector, that must be so discouraging. If the Commander has it in for you … do you think she tampered with the files? Maybe something’s missing. But then, Godley said she
had decided the box should be destroyed, after meeting up with the guardians. Do
you think she’s changed her mind?
Manouche *to Blake* Love, per’aps we should drop all this. Th’ Inspector made it pretty clear he didn’t anythin’ to do with the box ever again. After what he went through, who can blame him.
*to Abberline* Apologies, luv. If
ye ever happen upon any information that’ll help us destroy th’ bloody thing, th’ entire town would be beholden. But beyond that, it don’t ‘ave to be your fight. Ye got a grand lil’ boy to cherish, ye got somethin’ to live for. Don’t want t’ take that gift fer granted, savvy?
Abberline: The Commander ... No, I don't
think I am done with her. I know her well and she never gives up; it was too
easy, and it makes me worried. She could have me arrested if she'd really wanted
to ... *looks at the paper* Heart
and soul and blood. *sighs* Is there
no other way? I don't understand these wheels, why wheels? The Dark Temple is really
a circle. I have seen it with my own eyes, but can it be a reference to it?
I have to go through my papers to see if something is missing. If there is, it
is more likely that creep Corso than the Commander herself. I wish I knew what she is planning. *frowns, looks up at Manouche* But you must be tired. Let's drop this for a while ... and I have a request ... Could Raven stay here for
the night?
Manouche: Blimey, Inspector, of course
he can stay ‘ere. He’s welcome ‘ere anytime. I … I wish I could think of somethin’ that would be of assist to us on all this, but …
yer right, I am tired. Per’aps we’ll ‘ave some answers tomorrow,
after we sleep on it. *pauses, picks up the other paper from the table –
the drawing Raven made of Abberline – studies it, smiles, then looks at Abberline*
Inspector, yer more than welcome t’ stay ‘ere tonight, as well. We
‘ave plenty o’ room, an’ ye could spend more time with lil’ mate.
Th’ sunsets from ‘ere are good fer th’ soul, Mr. Blake builds a lovely fire in th’ evenin’s,
an’ … there’s still plenty o’ brandy. You an’ th’
Sergeant are both welcome. *smiles at Godley, who’s finishing off the last
scone*
Godley: That's a good suggestion, Inspector. You stay here. I'll pick you up in the
morning. *takes some scones and wraps them in a handkerchief. To Manouche* Me, I am going home to feed my goldfish. How comforting to know that I won't have to search for you in those bloody dens
tonight.
Abberline: He's a nuisance. If
it suits you, I'll accept. For this night.
Blake, you got any absinth? *Remembers the vial Malachi gave him, he's
going to have a dreamless night for once.*
Blake: Sure, Inspector, we have absinthe …
Manouche *interrupting him, holds up hand* On th’ condition that
ye eat somethin’. Drinkin’ in general without eatin’ is hard on ye, but drinkin’ absinthe with
no food can be dangerous. ‘Ave a little somethin’, it don’t ‘ave to be much. Then ye can
help yerself t’ all the absinthe ye want. It’ll help ye sleep, an’ I know that’s what ye need
more’n anything else right now … a good night’s sleep. *smiles* Don’t be put out with
me fer suggestin’ it, mate. Jus’ seein’ to me guest’s comfort, as it were. Besides, I'm
a bit too tired t' be copin' with a collapsed guest tonight. Savvy?
Abberline *shrugs* I am used to that,
but whatever you say. I won't be any trouble, I just need a small nightcap.
*Later that night*
Manouche *walking quietly through the house before going to bed, checking on
everyone, making sure the house is locked up. Guest bedroom door is ajar, she peeks in, sees Abberline sleeping heavily,
his expression peaceful. Approaches him carefully, studies him, concentrates … can tell he’s sleeping soundly,
no dreams. She looks over at table next to bed, sees glass with a splash of absinthe left in the bottom, then notices
a small empty vial. Picks it up, sniffs at it, nods, whispers to herself* Good choice, Malachi, mate. *looks
at Abberline sympathetically, pulls covers up around him a little. Turns to leave, sees Blake standing in the doorway,
grinning at her. She leaves the room, softly closes the door, looks at Blake indignantly* What??
Blake: Nothin’. It’s just sweet, that’s all …
you taking care of everyone.
Manouche *grins* Between Godley an’ me, th’ poor man prob’ly
feels like we think he’s totally incompetent! I don’t mean t’ smother ‘im … but me heart
goes out to ‘im. ‘Specially since Raven shared that vision with me, an’ I were able t’ see fer
meself what he went through when he was in that box. An’ that were only an indication of it, it weren’t
th’ real thing. I don’t know how he survived it … *shivers*
Blake *puts arm around her as they go to Raven’s room* Try not
to think about it, honey, you’re too tired. I don’t think you’ve recovered from that nightmare last
night. *They look in on Raven, see he’s also sound asleep. Manouche picks up a book from his bed, sets it
on the nightstand, leans over, kisses him. They leave the room, shut the door quietly, go to living room. Blake
looks surprised as Manouche sits on sofa* It’s late, we should go to bed.
Manouche *waves hand at fireplace* Ahh, but look, love, there’s
still some fire left goin’. Let’s enjoy it jus’ fer a few minutes. *holds out her hand to him,
he smiles, sits next to her; they gaze at the fire* Lil’ mate sure loves his books, don’t he?
Blake: Y’mean that one you took off the bed? The Inspector
was reading that to him. He and I were talkin’ and he was telling me how he doesn’t seem to know what to
do as a father, he feels very awkward about it. About five minutes later, in comes Raven with that book, askin’
his dad to read to him before he went to sleep. Poor Abberline, he looked terrified! So I said, ‘sure, Raven,
you go on, get in bed, he’ll be right in.’ Abberline looked at me like I was crazy, so I pushed him a little
to go ahead, give it a try. And he did, and it went just fine. *smiles* I don’t know if Raven had
heard us talking or if it was a coincidence, but it made for some good time for them to spend together. And once Abberline
warmed up to it, you should’ve heard him. What a voice! He could work in radio.
Manouche: Bloody ‘ell, I’d love t’ ‘ave seen
that! Where was I?
Blake: You were right here on this couch, fast asleep. You’re
worn out, darlin’.
Manouche: I guess I am pretty tired, at that … *she stretches out,
Blake lies down next to her; they spoon on the sofa, his arms around her, still watching the fire. He kisses the back
of her neck, she snuggles against him* I love ye, Mr. William Blake. Would ye recite one o’ yer poems fer
me?
Blake: I love you, honey. *thinks for a minute, starts to recite,
voice very soft and low:*
Every night and every morn
Some to misery are born
Every morn and
every night
Some are born to sweet delight
Some are born to sweet delight
Some are born to endless night
We are
led to believe a lie
When we see not through the eye
Which was born in a night to perish in a night
When the soul
slept in beams of light …
*Blake’s voice trails off as he sees she’s fallen asleep.
Whispers* You're gonna be a wonderful godmother, my love. *He kisses her tenderly, hugs her tight, and soon
drifts off to sleep as the last of the fire’s embers burn out.*
At the docks:
Kat *boards the Apparition, goes straight to her cabin, locking herself in.*
Dimitri *stops on the dock, seems to study the ship.*
John Shaddrack I feel your presence, appear.
Shaddrack *shimmers and appears* I warned
ye it would not be so easy. Kat's too unpredictable.
Dimitri *annoyed* Yes. Yes, I know what you said. Now tell me what to do about it. I can't see through her fear.
Shaddrack: *snidely* Well, it'd 'elp
if ye'd stop talkin' like the lead villain from them late night 'orror movies. Don't
ye think eh?
Dimitri: I didn't … *sighs* I guess maybe I did.
Now how do I get close enough to fix it. There's no hope of defeating
the box if I'm blind to any one of the aspects.
Shaddrack *grins* Suddenly yer not soundin'
so all-fire sure of yerself, are ye. Go through Manouche. That's yer best bet.
Dimitri *glares, turns away, departs the dock, to the sound of Shaddrack's laughter.*
At Portsmith’s office:
Corso *after Abberline and Godley have taken off with Abberline’s files* Should I send someone after them?
Portsmith: No. I know he will be back, and I can get him later. As long as
that kid stays in Deppville, he isn't going anywhere. He will be back.
Corso: Are you still wanting him
back? Why?
Portsmith: Of course, Dean. *irritated* How many times have you asked that? He was a good officer until the pirates corrupted him. I'll
lock him up for a while, that gives him time to contemplate his allegiance. He
will reconsider. And they will need me, those fools, with the box. They are just amateurs dabbling in things they don't understand.
I don't need his files anymore, but I confess they might have been useful when I got the box. After all, it was me who brought it to Deppville.
Corso: I shouldn't say that out loud,
Commander, I don't think that it would do any good to remind anyone of that. *after
a pause* I have to admit that I would like to know how you obtained it.
Portsmith *looking at Corso as if he were an idiot* Through the Order, of course. Took some heavy bribing and
some promises, but I got it from some members who later were expelled and executed, so no worries.
Corso *terrified* No worries! Did you really deal with the Order!
Portsmith *with enthusiasm* They have
such awesome ceremonial robes, Dean, and their ceremonies are very refined!
Corso *paling* They don't let anyone witness their ceremonies, only the mem
... *even more terrified* You did
not join them? But they demand sacrifices, twins …
Portsmith: Now that you mention that,
there was some talk about twins and I might have promised them a coupla of them. Why
are you so pale?
Corso: You are not thinking of the
Wonka twins?
Portsmith *indignantly* Of course not,
I would never harm Mr. Wonka, he's such a fine gentleman. I am sure I'll find
somewhere those twins if they come asking after some, but they haven't.
Corso: Yet.
At From Hell Court:
Malachi *sprawled on old sofa in the opium den, downstairs from his favorite pub,
enjoying a bit o’ dragon chasing. Suddenly becomes aware of someone standing
over him, speaking to him, saying his name. Blinks a few times to clear his blurred
vision, lifts head slightly* Hey, are you …
Gili: I’m Gili, I’m Kat’s
brother. I need to talk to you, it’s very serious.
Malachi *smirks* EVERYthing is very serious
these days, friend. Why don’t you run along for now, come back tomorrow? Give Kat my regards … maybe you can help her shine up her shovel, she’ll
be needing it again sometime soon, no doubt. *starts to turn over*
Gili *grabs his shoulder, turns him back toward him*
There’s something you need to know. It concerns The Order.
Malachi *sits up quickly, all ears; whispers*
Th-the Order … *glances around, looks back at Gili, nods* Come on. *stands up a little unsteadily, motions for Gili to follow him. They climb the stairs, pass through the tavern, go to Malachi’s apartment. They enter, Malachi closes and locks door behind them, offers Gili a whiskey, they sit at the table* Okay, let’s hear it. Like we don’t
have enough trouble these days …
Gili: Do you remember that ship Manouche
blew up in the harbor awhile back, when she was so sure the Wonkas and their twins were in danger? Not the first one that she and Kidd destroyed, but the second one … the one with the crew that held
her captive out to sea for awhile.
Malachi: I wasn’t here at the time,
but I heard about it. So?
Gili: The crew of the first one had been
drawn here by the Wonkas, true enough. But the second one was more interested
in Manouche. She had a powerful talisman at the time that protected her, but
she gave it to the Wonkas. Once she did that, the crew from the second ship was
able to abduct her. Fortunately, she escaped, and took out the whole crew and
the ship as well …
Malachi *stares at Gili* Are you telling
me …
Gili *nods* Those people were from The
Order, and Manouche was in danger. It was more than protecting the Wonkas. She was in danger, and she still is. And
so are you.
Malachi: Me? Why me?
Gili: The Order never gives up. The Order has many sects throughout Europe. As you know all too well, long ago, within a few years of each other, at the separate sects in which each
of your families belonged, you and Manouche were to be sacrificed. Along with
your twin siblings. By some miracle, you managed to escape your fate. Three years later, in a similar situation in a different sect, Manouche was able to escape hers. Though you lost your sister, and Manouche lost her brother.
Malachi *angry, fighting back tears* Y’know,
I managed to go years without talking about this … an’ now, in the space of a few days, I’ve heard enough
about it to last me a lifetime. *pours another drink, glares at him* You damn well better have a good reason for dredging it all up again.
Gili: I do. As I said, The Order never gives up. It sees you two as unfinished
business. For you to have escaped and survived all these years, that’s
extremely rare. They were outraged that two of their sacrifices of twins were interrupted
due to your escape. The crew that was here a few months ago for Manouche intended
to take her back to the sect of origin, and complete the sacrifice they had begun so long ago with her brother. They have planned all along to do the same with you.
Malachi *eyes wide* But … that’s
insane. I … I mean, a lot of the people who were there at the time probably
aren’t even alive.
Gili: Enough of them are. And The Order has a very strong and vengeful memory. You caused
your sect leaders a great deal of suffering when you escaped. Several of them
were executed immediately. But a few of the more quick-thinking ones pointed
out that, according to The Order’s doctrines, the partial sacrifice would stand until the missing twin could be found
and the sacrifice concluded … no matter what the victim’s age. So
life went on in both sects … and behind the scenes, efforts to find you and Manouche have been tireless throughout the years. These are patient, deadly people, and they are determined that the sacrifice begun
will be completed. The only defeat they’ll accept is if you die of other
causes before they are able to get to you. All of this applies to you and Manouche
both.
Malachi *hands shaking as he reaches for cigarettes, lights one. Pauses to calm his voice, then looks at Gili* This is …
well, this is a hell of a thing. This … this all sounds like ... if it’s
been going on all this time … I guess the question that comes to mind is, why are you telling all this to me now?
Gili *for the first time, deep sympathy showing in his face* The sects … yours and Manouche’s … have been comparing notes. They have come to realize a few things. They now intend to
treat this as an issue for The Order as a whole, rather than leaving it to the individual sects to resolve. In other words, they’re essentially looking at you and Manouche as … a new set of twins. At least, that’s how they plan to handle the transaction …
Malachi *now sweating profusely* T-t-transaction,
what th’ hell are you on about? What do you mean transaction, with who??
Gili: With Commander Portsmith. They supplied her with the last remaining soul box from Fiji. They made clear to her that the day may come when they would demand that she provide sacrificial twins
to them, as payment for their services. They originally were considering the
Wonkas’ children … but they know the Commander is very fond of Willy, and would never be part of such a plot. Then they realized that you and Manouche are both here. I can’t tell you how pleased they are, to have you both in one place.
They consider it an amazing stroke of luck. Fortunately, you and Manouche
have a level of protection that will serve you for awhile … but if the Commander decides to hand you over to The Order
as part of her bargain with them for the soul box, your protection will probably be useless.
Malachi: Wh-what is this protection we
have?
Gili: Manouche’s heritage. She’s a Magi. She has a lot of
Romany magic about her. It’s probably what helped her escape when she was
a child, and it’s stronger than ever in her now … especially after all she learned from Alifi recently. That training made a huge difference. They would never be
able to abduct her now as easily as they did a few months ago. As for you, you
have enough of the dreamer about you, that’s what protects you. That, and
your association with Manouche. It’s to your great fortune that you knew
her in Fiji. Otherwise,
chances are The Order may have finished you off by now.
Malachi *buries face in hands* Oh, god
… *pauses for a long time while he processes everything. Looks at Gili,
face pale* Is … is there anything we can do?
Gili: Here comes the broken record, you’re
not going to like it. Something must be done about that box. It either needs to be destroyed or placed somewhere where it’s rendered ineffective. If the Commander cannot make use of the box, she will insist she owes The Order nothing. If the deal is declared null in void, chances are the two of you will be safe.
Malachi *nods, expression dazed, as if in shock.
Pours out another drink, drinks it in one gulp. Lights another cigarette* H-have you told this to anyone else?
Gili: No.
I can’t explain how I’ve come to know it. I just …
Malachi: You just KNOW it. Yeah, I’ve got the corner on that market, son. *sighs* Well, well, so, yet another good reason to get rid of that blasted box. *grins* Either that, or assassinate Portsmith.
Gili *can’t help but smile a very tiny smile*
There are days when even Corso would go along with that. *pauses, then
adds* Will you tell Manouche? Would
you prefer I tell her?
Malachi: I don’t know. Let’s keep this quiet for a little while longer, not tell anyone.
I don’t know why I feel like that’s the best course of action, but …
Gili: You just FEEL it. I understand. Sorry to bring it to you. I thought someone should know.
Malachi *glances at him* What’d
you do, flip a coin an’ I lost?
Gili: Or won, depending on your outlook.
Malachi *laughs* I suppose I could cut
an’ run. Probably improve my chances of survival to disappear on them,
right?
Gili: Yes, it would. But you won’t do that.
Malachi *snaps impatiently* All right, you’ve
done your duty. How ‘bout you let yourself out, give me a chance to think?
Gili *stands up, places hand on Malachi’s shoulder* It’s no crime to be a good man, Malachi. *smiles, leaves
apartment, closes door softly*
Malachi *snorts* It’s no great
honor, either. *reaches in pocket, pulls out coin, flips it up in the air, catches
it, glances at it, heads or tails. Repeats action several times as he thinks
things over … *
At Manouche and Blake’s house:
*Very
early in the morning*
Abberline
wakes up, without a start, without scenes from nightmares flitting in his mind. He's
slept for once peacefully, and feels himself fully awake instantly. He gets up,
dresses, runs his hand through his hair, pick up his cigarettes and goes out of the room. He
stops at Raven's door, and after a short hesitation goes in, leans over the bed and brushes Raven's cheek lightly with his
fingers, with a soft* I will be back before you wake up. *On his way out, he snatches one small bottle of brandy – and the picture that Raven drew; he folds
it neatly and puts it in his breast pocket, together with the photo of Victoria.*
*On his
way to the office, he lights a cig – his usual breakfast. At Godley's apartment
he stops, thinks for a while to wake him up, but goes on. Let Godley sleep ...
Godley will be moody and irritable if he can't get his horrible breakfast of bacons, eggs, sausages and toast.*
At
the Security building:
*Abberline
sneaks in the office, goes directly to Commander Portsmith's room to see if he can find his missing papers. He knows that Portsmith would not care to hide them well, since she wouldn't believe he would come after
them. He finds what he is looking for in a drawer, but when he is about to leave,
he notes a letter on the desk. "We will be expecting full payment for the transaction. Once the deal is concluded, you will be promoted to full membership. Be
ready." Suddenly, a clear vision flashes in his mind: two men knocking on his London house door, Victoria opening the door and smiling to them, moving awkwardly
because of her late pregnancy ... He lets the letter fall and sinks
in the chair with all his strength gone.*
Godley *appears in doorway*
Are you seeing something, Inspector?
Abberline *rising up* No. Just a flashback from the past. *takes the letter.*
Godley:
You know, I saw you standing there outside, and I had to know what you were up
to.
Abberline: I was just getting what is mine. And do what I need to do. *walks to his office and searches
for his small revolver, finds it and pockets it, goes to the lockup.*
Nate/Marchand *grins*
You? Came to keep me company while I wait for the Commander to let me go free.
It seems she wants to swap our positions, so to say.
Abberline *raising his
revolver* You are not going anywhere. Ever.
Nate/Marchand *with a sneer*
I wouldn't do that if I were you. That
son of yours, he might have an objection to you shooting me. After all, he is
our flesh and blood, Inspector.
Abberline *wavering*
What? What do you mean?
Godley *grabbing his
arm and taking the revolver* He's just trying to get at you. Let's go before the Commander returns. *guides him out*
Abberline: What did he say?
Godley: Nothing. Come on, or we'll miss the breakfast.
Abberline: Breakfast?
Godley: At Manouche's, of course.
At Manouche and Blake’s house:
*Later
that morning ... *
Manouche
*slowly wakes up on sofa, Blake’s arms wrapped around her. Opens her eyes, jumps slightly as she sees Raven sitting
on the floor, watching her, holding a steaming cup. Whispers to him* Raven! How long y’ been sittin’
there?
Raven:
Not long. I just made coffee for you.
Manouche:
Ye always seem t’ do jus' the right thing. *She carefully sits up, Blake mumbles a little, turns over, goes back
to sleep. She takes the cup from Raven, stands up, motions for him to follow her. They go to kitchen, she looks
out at patio, sees that it’s going to be another beautiful morning* Now, what can I get ye, lil’ mate?
Y’want anythin’ to eat yet, or some hot chocolate …
Raven
*grins* You better start making something. I think company’s coming.
Manouche:
Who? Who would … *looks at him, then smiles* Ahh, Sergeant Godley! Right, I’m on it. *starts
getting out ingredients to make cinnamon rolls* Where’s yer dad, still asleep?
Raven
*shakes head* He’s not here.
Manouche
*stops, looks at him* Oh … well, knowin’ him, he prob’ly went to th’ Security buildin’.
From th’ way he were talkin’ yesterday, I ‘ad the feelin’ he weren’t done with all that.
‘Ere y’ are, luv, mind, it’s hot. *sets cup of hot chocolate on table*
Raven
*sits down, wraps hands around the cup* Manouche, what’s a trans … trans-actor …
Manouche:
Transactor?
Raven:
No, that’s not right … a …. trans—action.
Manouche
*breaks some eggs in a bowl* Transaction? Well … that’s somethin’ to do with a deal, savvy?
Like a business deal. It’s like payin’ fer services rendered, or per’aps a product. Or it can
be deposit or withdrawal o’ money … or providin’ one thing promised fer another, a barter. Things
like that. What’s put that in yer head this mornin’?
Raven
*shrugs* I don’t know. It’s bothering me.
Manouche
*smiles* Well, I don’t see why ye’d ‘ave to be worried about anythin’ like that. Unless
yer goin’ into business sometime soon.
Raven
*grins, tastes the chocolate* Is Father coming back?
Manouche:
I’m sure he will, sooner or later. Maybe he’ll be comin’ with th’ Sergeant. *looks at
him* Ye ain’t mad at ‘im anymore, are ye?
Raven:
No, we had fun last night. He read to me …
Manouche
*smiles, stirring ingredients* I heard …
Raven:
I think he likes me. I … I’m worried about him. *drinks chocolate, looks up at Manouche* When
he comes back, will you ask him about trans … trans .. action?
Manouche
*laughs* Aye. *comes over, hugs him* ‘Course yer dad likes ye, luv. I’m sure he loves
ye desp’rate. If yer sensin’ somethin’ right now, yer prob’ly jus’ still pickin’
up on his past sorrows, is all. Bound t’ happen, now that th’ pair o’ ye are gettin’ closer.
No worries, things’ll get sorted. *straightens up, puts a cinnamon stick in his cup* ‘Ere y’are,
give it an extra kick. *winks at him, turns back to baking*
Raven
*stirs chocolate with the cinnamon stick, puts it in his mouth; watches Manouche work, his eyes large, dark and solemn*
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