Manouche:  Matter o’ fact, Inspector, he’s ‘ere.  He an’ Mr. Blake are in th’ waitin’ room.  He’s … well, he wants t’ see ye, but he’s scared, an’ understandably so.  After what ye an’ Kat an’ everyone put ‘im through, it’s …  *voice trails off, she relents*  Ahh, well, never mind, I can tell by th’ look on yer face ye’ve been beatin’ yerself up over it all.  Right … wait right ‘ere, an’ I’ll go get lil’ mate fer ye.  *leaves room, returns to waiting room, waves at Blake and Raven, who jump up quickly and follow Manouche.  As they’re standing just outside Abberline’s room, a nurse comes up to them, speaks to Manouche*  Oh, good, doctor, we need you right away!  *grabs Manouche by the arm*

Manouche *to Blake and Raven, murmurs*  Right, go on, he’s waitin’ … I’ll be there directly, savvy?  *looks at nurse imperiously*  Aye, luv, lead on – ahh, that is, yes, nurse, what can I do for you??  *Nurse pulls her away, she looks back at Blake and Raven nervously*

Raven and Blake *enter Abberline’s room.*

Blake *nods*  Inspector, how’re you doin’?

Raven *stands close to Blake, looks at Abberline, eyes large, looks at him hopefully*  F-Father? .....

Abberline *looks at Raven cautiously for a long time * Are you scared of me?  I was certain that you would not want to see me ever again ...

Blake:  I think that’s how he figured you felt about him.  *puts hand on Raven’s shoulder, nudges him*  Go on, Raven.

Raven *slowly approaches till he’s standing by the bedside*  I – I brought something for you.  *he brings something from behind his back, places a small stuffed bear on the bed, smiles shyly*

Blake *grins*  It was his idea ... we got it in the gift shop.

Abberline: Oh... *picks up the bear and looks at it at loss of words for a long time the turns to Raven who has been waiting anxiously and smiles shyly at him*  Can you ever forgive me?  *reaches out for Raven*

Raven *says nothing, but jumps into his arms, hugging him.  Blake nods, smiling*

Manouche *enters room, with several extremely fetchin’ male nurses hanging onto her every word, one of them taking notes*  Oh, aye, that’s right, astragalus.  It’s a plant, native t’ China, ye want t’ use th’ root fer what ails ye.  It’s pure dead brilliant fer cardiovascular problems, an’ as an anti-viral agent, as it were.  Bollocks t’ modern medicine, mates!  Ye ‘ave everything y’ need in nature, savvy?  *sees Abberline and Raven, smiles broadly; her eyes still on them, she addresses the nurses*  Ummm … ahem … that’s the end o’ th’ holistic lecture fer now, lads … ahh, that is … I need to consult with the patient on his condition, if you’ll excuse us …  *firmly ushers everyone out, closes door, locks it, leans against it with a relieved sigh; looks at Blake*  I ain’t sure, love, but I may ‘ave jus’ been inducted into th’ Deppville Medical Association.  *to Abberline*  Tell me, mate, what’s yer blood type?

Abberline:  That's about the blood test?  *somewhat guilty*  I don't understand why they would need it every day.  I think the blood type must be somewhere on those records that insolent nurse left on that table.  The Commander has confined me here for an indefinable time, but …  *hopefully*  … since you are a doctor now you could perhaps sign some paper that lets me out of here ...

Blake *picks up records from table, reads them over.  Looks up at Manouche, raises his hand*  We’re both Type O.  I’ll do it.

Manouche:  Yer way ahead o’ me, love.  *to Abberline*  They’re wantin’ a blood test.  I ‘ave a feelin’ ye got yer reasons fer objectin’, as I heard ye tellin' that nurse when I arrived.  So we’ll give ‘em a bit o' Mr. Blake’s blood to test on, savvy?  Buy ye a little time, as it were.  *pauses, shakes head regretfully*  I don’t reckon I could get ye out of ‘ere even if I wanted to, mate.  Ye’ve been committed by Commander Portsmith ‘erself.  That means sooner or later she’d find out it were me who sprung ye.  An’ wouldn’t she love to ‘ave another charge on me long list o’ crimes against th’ people, as she sees it.  *shrugs*  Two weeks ain’t so bad, Inspector.  It’ll do ye good, ye ‘ave Malachi’s supplement … *smiles at Raven, who’s still hugging him* … an’ we’ll come visit every single day, I swear.  *to Blake*  C’mon over ‘ere, love, roll up yer sleeve.  No worries, I know what I’m doin’.  *catches Raven’s eye, winks at him*

Raven *to Abberline*  Get well soon, Father, so you can come home.  There’s still Wonka chocolate at your house, an’ we could go to the beach again.  *grins*

Blake *watches Manouche as she carefully inserts needle, draws blood*  Ahh … honey, do you think you could bring this getup home with you?  *indicates doctor’s coat, grins*  It’s kinda attractive …

Abberline:  I hope you are clean, Blake, or I will never get out.  I just don't understand why it would be necessary every day, and I didn't like that nurse's attitude.  Did you know that nurse, Manouche, because you looked so long after him?  *to Raven*  We can buy more Wonka chocolate, and do something about that house ... home.  You can have your own room there, if I clear that spare bedroom.  *bitterly, to Manouche* unless that Crane has something against it.  He could forbid it, couldn't he?

Blake *rolls sleeve back down*  Don’t worry about Crane, Inspector.  I had a little talk with Kidd … well … it’s a long story, an’ you should hear it all from Kat … anyway, just don’t worry.  An’ don’t worry about that blood sample, either.  I haven’t had anything stronger than coffee in days.  We haven’t had much time … I’ve missed our drinks by the fire … *gazes lovingly at Manouche*

Manouche *smiles*  We’ll make up fer lost time, love, I promise ye that.  *to Abberline*  Can’t say I knew that nurse, mate, but ye were right … I were starin’ after ‘im.  There were somethin’ familiar about ‘im, but I couldn’t clock it.  *pauses, tries to think where she may have seen him before.  She turns back to Abberline, sympathetic*  I can’t get ye out, luv, wish I could … but there’s somethin’ else I can do fer ye, to make this all a bit more palatable.  *opens door, calls down hall*  Sebastian!  *Sebastian, the decidedly easy-on-the-eyes male nurse, runs up; she hands him blood sample and Abberline’s records*  Run th’ tests on this as prescribed.  And can you tell me who ordered daily blood tests on Mr. Abberline?

Sebastian:  No, I’m sorry, ma’am, I can’t.

Manouche:  I see.  Well, I’ve examined the records an’ have come to the conclusion that daily tests are not necessary an’ will only put me patient through undue stress.  He’s here for detox, the last thing he needs is stress.  Please indicate in the records that the next blood test is not to be conducted till the end of the first week … followed by only one final test by end o’ fortnight, savvy? —understood?

Sebastian:  Yes ma’am.  *opens file, makes note in record.*

Manouche:  Good.  One last thing, Sebastian ... I would like to have you in charge of Mr. Abberline for the duration of his stay.  Mark that down as well.  Make sure the rest of the nursing staff is made aware of this.

Sebastian:  Yes ma'am ... begging your pardon, ma'am, I don't have your name for the record.  *leans in, peers at the name tag on the doctor's coat Manouche grabbed*  Ah, there it is ... *writes in file* ...  Dr. Rainey.

Manouche *startled, glances down at tag, back up at Sebastian; recovers, puts on pompous Portsmith expression*  Excellent, thank you Sebastian, you may go.  *watches Sebastian run off, turns to the others, grins*  I could get used t’ this.  *reluctantly removes doctor’s coat*  Well, Inspector, would ye like fer Mr. Blake an’ me t’ clear out, give th’ pair o’ ye some time together?  We could go back t’ the waitin’ room, or th’ cafeteria.  You name it, mate.

Abberline:  Thank you, doctor.  What do you say, Raven?  There's not much to do here, I fear.  *takes some medical records from the table and looks for a pen*  I don't think these are very important.  Do a drawing for me.  *to Manouche and Blake*  Take your time, there's no hurry.

Manouche *smiles*  Ah, that’s what we in th’ medical profession appreciate … a patient who’ll take his doctor’s advice.  *to Blake*  C’mon, love, let’s go ‘ave some ‘orrible coffee.  *She and Blake leave the room, go down to the hospital cafeteria.  They get cups of coffee, sit at a table by a window, saying nothing, lost in their individual thoughts.  Manouche breaks the silence*  Mr. Blake … what were y’ talkin’ about back there?  What’d Kidd say t’ ye?

Blake *shrugs*  Nothin’ much … just something about the fact that Constable Crane’s decision on what happens to Raven can be overridden.  I’m … I’m not sure why she told me about it.  Guess she just felt the need to talk … I got the feeling she was disappointed at how Crane acted the other night.  I admit, I didn’t see it comin’, either … never seen him like that.

Manouche:  Aye, he were worked up, weren’t he?  *laughs*  Lil’ mate sure has a team o’ caregivers all vyin’ fer lookin’ after him, don’t he?  Not that it ain’t all he deserves … he deserves everythin’ …  *voice trails off, she plays with the bracelet Raven and True Dreamer gave her*

Blake:  Yeah, he does.  *reaches across table, takes her hands in his, pulls her forward, kisses her.*

Manouche:  What brought that on?  Not that ye need a reason …

Blake *grins*  I’ve always wanted to kiss a doctor.

Manouche *laughs*  Continued holistic treatment, innit?  *takes his wrist, feels his pulse*  Yer heart rate’s racin’ … y’ look a bit flushed … yer experiencin’ palpitations … th’ doctor recommends plenty o’ bed rest.  No need fer admittance, we can treat this at home.  An’ no arguments from ye – doctor’s orders.  Savvy?  *pulls him forward, kisses him*

*Later – Manouche and Blake return to Abberline’s room, find Raven still working on a drawing.  Abberline has fallen asleep.*

Manouche:  Shhh, lil’ mate … reckon we should leave th’ Inspector t’ his rest fer now, eh?  Ye can bring yer drawin’ with ye, finish it at home.  We’ll bring it back to him tomorrow, all right?

Raven *nods, hands the papers to Manouche, goes up to Abberline, hugs him, kisses him, murmurs*  I love you, Father.  *looks at Manouche and Blake*  Do you think he heard me?

Manouche *smiles*  I don’t doubt it fer a moment, luv.  *She and Blake take him out of the room, where they run into Sebastian, who nods brusquely, then stops and looks intently at Manouche*

Manouche:  Ahhhhh …. ye must be acquainted with me sister, Dr. Rainey!  I get that look all th’ bloody time, mate, we’re peas in a pod, we are.  *waves toward Abberline's room*  I understand yer in charge o’ me friend ‘ere, Inspector Abberline.  Keep a close eye on ‘im, there’s a good lad.  *beams at him charmingly*  I believe I’ll find yer supervisor, put in a good word.  Me sister had such glowin’ praise about ye.  *Sebastian blushes, shuffles feet, shakes her hand, leaves, mumbling something about having to get back to work.*

Manouche *watches him go, turns to Blake, grins*  C’mon, love, let’s go home.  Th’ doctor is out.  *They leave the hospital, return home.*

At Chez Roux:

Malachi *with great caution, managed to make it to Chez Roux without incident, meets the nurse for drinks.  She motions him over to a booth, he slides in next to her*  So how’d everything go, sweetheart?  Did you give that stuff to the Inspector, like I asked?

Nurse:  Sure, no problem.  Soon as I realized he was on assignment …

Malachi *looks at her*  What?  What’re you talking about?

Nurse:  Oh he tried to hide it, but I got it outta him.  He wouldn’t tell me about the case, but he asked for a bottle of absinthe.  Now what kind of case would he need that for?

Malachi:  You didn’t get it for him??

Nurse:  Well, sure, why not?  That detox cover was pretty lame.  Nobody would fall for that … a law officer using drugs?

Malachi *slaps forehead, sighs*  Well, nothing we can do about it now, I guess.  At least he’s got that stuff.  Someone else is bound to find the absinthe and take it away from him.  *reaches into coat, pulls out cigarettes, lights one*

Nurse *beaming excitedly*  Y’know, sugar, nothing ever happened to me before I met you.  Now it’s just one thing after another.  First the case going on, right on my ward … and then on the way over here, that car following me …

Malachi *stops mid-drink, lowers glass*  C-car?  What car?

Nurse *points out window*  That one.  Don’t look right at it!  The driver told me about the hidden camera …

Malachi *glances out window at the black sedan parked across the street, turns back to her; pauses only for a split second, then grabs her, pulls her to the floor as gunfire from outside shatters the window next to their booth.  He hears the car’s wheels squeal as it takes off, then slowly rises, brushing broken glass and debris out of the way before sinking wearily into the seat*

Nurse *pops up, claps her hands*  WOW, it’s just like TV!  *giggles*  Well, that’s stupid!  I mean it IS TV, isn’t it?  Omigosh, wait’ll I tell my friends!  The driver didn’t tell me when this is gonna be on.  Do you know?  Gosh, I wonder how it ends …

Malachi *hands shake, grabs drink, downs it in one gulp, slams glass on table*  So do I, sweetheart, so do I …

In an undisclosed location:

Mr. Black *pacing, furious*  Idiots.  Mind-numbingly stupid IDIOTS.

Mr. Brown:  Don’t worry about it, I took care of it.  They’re gone.

Mr. Black *glares at him*  What do they think this is, the Roaring Twenties??  Really, Mr. Brown, your choice of people to deal with our little issue has thus far left everything to be desired.  And THESE …  *holds up files from Abberline’s house, disgusted*  These are worthless, they tell us nothing.  *tosses them into a trash can.*  Outrageous.  What if those fools had killed him?  We never said anything about having him killed, much less in a public place.  That wouldn’t do us much good for the Order’s sacrifice, now, would it?  We need him and Manouche alive.  Where the hell did they get their instructions, this is ……  *looks at him, eyebrows raised*  What are you eating??

Mr. Brown:  Cannoli.  It was in the car.

Mr. Black *grabs it from him, flings it across the room*

Mr. Brown *looks longingly after the cannoli*  They were supposed to get him.  At least we know now that he is about.

Mr. Black:  Yes, and now he knows that we are about.  And we still don't know if Abberline has that inside information.  He may not have written it all down.

Mr. Brown:  I don't think he knows anything more than what was in those files.  And he is at the hospital.

Mr. Black:  Are you questioning the Order?  We were told to eliminate him and capture Manouche and Malachi, and get the Commander to join.

Mr. Brown:  All right, all right.  It would be easiest to begin with Abberline, but we can do nothing since he's in the hospital.

Mr. Black:  Wrong.  We can use that nurse who was with Malachi.  Put on your shades and look like a secret agent. 

At Office Square:

*Portsmith is raising funds for her statue. She has been holding a speech about the importance of art and remembrance, city planning and environmental design and is currently going round with a list.*

Portsmith *to Aidan the Mechanic*  And how much are you up for to make Deppville a greater city?

Aidan:  Nuffin', Commander, don't care for art.

Portsmith:  Oh. In that case, you will get a ticket for parking on my personal lot.

Aidan:  Can't do, there wasn't no sign.

Portsmith:  No sign you say.  That is precisely the importance and beauty of environmental design and city planning.  You would not know that without a sign.  Art, ands especially statues, are about the same thing.  Without statues, this place is just like any other place, without any personal history.  Now, you get
my equestrian statue in the middle of this square to remind you of the greatness of Deppville.

Aidan:  Yea, I'd love that...

Portsmith:  So, how much?

*Aidan mutters to himself but picks up the pen and signs*

Mr. Black:  I see that you are occupied, Commander. We have here a new draft sent by the Inner Circle. They are bestowing a rare honour on you by accepting you without any application right to the Circle.  After the transaction.

Portsmith:  Let me see it.  *looks through it approvingly*  Good.  I knew they would come to their senses.

Mr. Brown:  What about the payment, Commander?

Portsmith *annoyed*  All in due time.  As I said, it requires a proper ceremony.  I would greatly appreciate if you tried not to interfere and kill them in the meantime.

Mr. Brown:  We don't know anything about the shooting.

Mr. Black *shoots him an angry stare*  We will not wait for long.

Portsmith *to Armand the fur salesman*  Sign here, please.  Cheaper for you than an investigation in your bookkeeping.

At Deppville Hospital:

Abberline *wakes up late at night, with Raven long gone, but the teddy bear sits still on his bed.  He sits up and to his joy finds a pack of cigarettes - they must have been from the Colonel.  He immediately lights one after a long break.  He finds his well-hidden absinth bottle and pours a small amount in the empty glass, starts to drink when the door suddenly opens and the night nurse looks in.  He almost chokes on the drink and hides the glass under his pillow.*

Nurse:  You are not supposed to smoke here.

Abberline:  I can't cut it immediately like that, even if I wanted it.

Nurse *smiles*  Yes, I know.  I was going to bring you some.  But I see you are already provided for.

Abberline:  A visitor brought them.

Nurse:  I saw that your son was seeing you.  Such a cute little boy.

Abberline *smiles*  Yes, he is an extraordinary child.

Nurse:  You and your wife must be very proud of him.  I saw them both when they were here.  Wasn't it a strange coincidence that the whole family was at the same time in the hospital.  Did she like the flowers?

Abberline *confused*  She is not my wife.  I don't have a wife.  And I don't know if she liked them.  Probably she just tossed them overboard.  More like her style.

Nurse:  But it was very nice of you to send them, anyway.

Abberline:  I am not sure about that, either.

Nurse *walks to the bed and lifts the pillow, takes the glass*  This is forbidden, too.

Abberline:  I know.  Everything is forbidden here, except water.

Nurse:  Everything that is not good for you is forbidden.  *she gives him the glass*  I won't tell on you.  But be careful and remember why you are here.  *turns to leave*

Abberline:  Please be with me for a while.

Nurse *sits at the bedside*  For a while.

At Manouche and Blake’s house:

*Late night, after a wonderful day including their visit with Abberline.  Raven and his father are close once again.  Manouche, Blake and Raven left the hospital after Abberline fell asleep, and spent the rest of the day at the beach; came back to the house, had a cookout, enjoying a beautiful evening by the river.  Raven finished the drawing he’d started on the paperwork from Abberline’s room, showed it to Manouche and Blake … they laughed to see it was a still life of sorts, that included the little stuffed bear, a prescription bottle, Abberline’s empty cigarette box, and the remote control to the TV mounted on the wall in the corner of the hospital room, near the ceiling.  They assured Raven that his father would love it, that he could give it to him when they visited him again tomorrow.  When it got too chilly outside, the three of them came back in the house, played games on the floor in front of the fireplace.  They played a drawing game that had all three of them reduced to helpless laughter more than once, as they each tried to guess what the other was drawing.  At one point, Manouche watched Blake tackle Raven and start tickling him, and she thought to herself, I must be dreamin’ … I don’t see how life could be any sweeter.  I feel like me heart could burst.*

*Later, she and Blake tucked Raven in; Blake recited a poem, and Raven asked Manouche to sing a song.*  Right, I ‘ave th’ perfect song.  *And she sang “Perfect Day”.  They then sat with Raven a little longer until he fell asleep, then tiptoed quietly out of his room, switching off the light.  Manouche closed the door softly, turned to see Blake gazing at her; she smiled*  Th’ doctor is in, love.  *He swept her up, carried her into their room, and they made love for the first time since before she’d disappeared, the only light in the room a moonbeam filtering through the linen curtains.  Awhile later, as she lay in his arms, her overwhelming happiness frightened her a little, and she began to tremble, apologizing for her foolishness; Blake laughed, held her close, kissing her face, and softly began to recite a line from Jack Kerouac – which made her tremble all the more, because it had just been running through her head:*

Blake:  “I see the gleeful hunger of her face devouring the sight of mine … ”

Manouche:  “ … I could die, don’t break my heart … ”

Blake and Manouche *together*  “ … radio with beautiful music, O world.”

*Still later that night*

*Blake sound asleep, Manouche slips out of his arms, gets up, walks around house one more time, checking doors and windows, looking in on Raven, who’s sleeping soundly.  Enters living room, pours shot of brandy, takes glass, walks over to table, sees Raven’s drawing.  Picks it up, along with the rest of the papers that were in the envelope Abberline had given him to draw on.  Drops into big comfy chair, smiling at drawing, thinking how much Abberline was going to love it.*  Ahh, Inspector, I love seein’ yer boy chase that remote look outta yer eyes.  *Sets it aside, takes drink, absently flips through other papers from envelope.  Stops at one, frowns, looks at it more carefully.  Eyes widen, fingers clutch the page*  Bloody ‘ell … circles …  *brings hand up to eyes*  Oh, Inspector … Fred, mate …

At Deppville Hospital:

*Commander Portsmith strolls into Abberline's room in the morning, looks around her curiously*  How are you doing?

Abberline *with a glimmer of hope*  You came here to release me?

Portsmith:  Maybe.  I need you with this Order thing.  You’ve got to give me some names, finally.

Abberline:  I don't know of any.

Portsmith:  I think you do.  And, I want you to assist me in handing over Manouche and Malachi.  They both trust you and wouldn't suspect a thing.

Abberline:  I won't do anything like that.

Portsmith *shrugs*  I really came over to see how you are doing.  I have to say that I am very deeply distressed by your situation.  You have been on the drugs for so long that staying away from them for two weeks isn't clearly enough.  If I release you, you will be back at your old habits in a day without any supervision.  Godley won't do, because he lets you have your own way.  And, there is this murder attempt in cold blood.  Don't believe for a moment that I don't know about this little incident of a Security Officer trying to kill an innocent woman …  *stops and reconsiders* … an almost innocent woman, that is.  I could press charges against you.  The fact is that you would have killed Kat if the gun hadn't been loaded with blanks.  But you did not know it.  You pulled the trigger on her in view of many eyewitnesses.  But I think you were off balance then, and that is why I suggest I get you transferred to some other place after these two weeks.  To a closed-up clinic.  And you won't get any visitors there.  So think about my proposition.  And think about not seeing that son of yours in a very long while.

Abberline *staring at her without a word*

Portsmith:  Oh, and before I leave, one more question.  How much are you willing to donate to my equestrian statue fund?

Portsmith *leaves room and meets the stunning male nurse Sebastian*  Is it you who's in charge of Abberline?

Sebastian:  Yes.  On Dr. Rainey's orders.

Portsmith:  Good.  No visitors for him today, it only tires him too much.  *leaves the hospital pleased with herself, casts one more last look at the nurse*

Outside Deppville Hospital:

Manouche, Blake and Raven *rounding corner to hospital main entrance, see Portsmith coming out, quickly duck behind building.  They watch her leave, then slowly come out of hiding*

Manouche:  Bloody 'ell ... that can’t be good.  I ‘ave an idea.  *she whispers to Blake and Raven, sends them around to side of the building, enters hospital.  Goes up to Abberline’s floor, finds linen closet, looks around to make sure no one’s watching; steps inside, is relieved to find that Dr. Rainey’s coat is there once again.  Puts it on, sees a clipboard on one of the shelves, walks out, strolling through the hall, looking down at clipboard thoughtfully.  Approaches Abberline’s room, sees Sebastian standing outside*  ‘Morning, Sebastian, how’s Mr. Abberline this morning?

Sebastian:  Fine, ma’am.  Commander Portsmith was here earlier, says he should have no visitors today, that they’ll tire him out.  Certainly is kind of her, isn’t it?  A busy public official, taking the time to come in and check on one of her staff.

Manouche *frowns, mutters*  Oh, aye, she’s all heart, she is.  *coughs*  Ahem – er, that is … ahhh, no visitors, eh?  Well, I’m not sure that’s necessary, but … yes, it was very thoughtful of the Commander to be so concerned for the Inspector’s welfare.  Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll check up on the patient.  Go on about yer business, I’ll call y’ if I need you.  *smiles charmingly at him, watches him continue down the hall.  Steps into Abberline’s room.*  Inspector, it’s me … how are ye, mate?  What were th' Commander doin' 'ere?

Abberline:  Dr Rainey!  You did not bring Raven with you?  *worried*  You really shouldn't be here.  The Commander is still looking after you and Malachi, and she seems to be getting impatient.  What was she doing here?  *with a faint smile*  Wanting funds for a statue.  *growing serious*  She told me that unless I help her to catch you, I won't get out.  Can she really do that?  And last, she accused me of attempted murder.  I can't deny that.  *frowns*  Have you seen Kat?  How is she?  She must be mad at me.  I feel so tired about all this ...   

*At Abberline's door, there's a knock – the door is opened*

Mason Webster:  Excuse me, Doctor.  I have been retained to represent Inspector Abberline.  It is my understanding that he is being illegally detained here.  I have here a Writ of Habeas Corpus.  Only a judge has the power to sign a person in such a way against his will.  As there is no judge in Deppville, I acquired the signature of the highest official here – the Mayor.  You'll find all is in order and you have no choice but to release this man at once.

Manouche *looks at document from Webster*  By th' powers, signed by th’ Mayor himself!  *looks up at Webster, returns to Doctor mode*  Ah -- that is, thank you very much, Mr. Webster.  This is wonderful news.  *looks at Abberline, tries to play the professional and keep from jumping up and down with glee*  Inspector Abberline, it would appear that you are free to go, on your own cognizance.

Abberline *not half as enthusiastic as Manouche*  So she isn't the highest power in this town after all, as she sometimes imagines herself to be.  Let me see it ...  I guess I am free to go then.  *looks at Manouche's puzzled expression, shrugs*  Of course it is good news.  I am thankful.  *with a faint smile*  So I will be going home.  *turns to Webster*  Who should I thank for employing you?  What about the attempted murder charges?

Mason Webster:  I was asked by the one that hired me to deliver a personal message.  Kat sends her apologies.  She also wished to thank you for the flowers and hopes the two of you can mend fences, as she put it, for Raven's sake.  As to the attempted murder charges, they are of no consequence.  A blank filled gun is not a murder weapon.  Under those circumstances, it would be a mute point and thrown out of any court room.

Manouche *clears throat*  Ahh, Mr. Webster, as th’ Inspector’s physician, I’m most interested in his welfare, his physical an’ mental state, as it were.  I would like to make sure your records show sufficient contact information.  I’m sure you have Mr. Abberline’s home address.  Please include this secondary address, that of two of his son’s caregivers, Mr. and Mrs. William Blake.  *writes her information down on small piece of paper, hands it to Webster; glances at Abberline, smiles reassuringly*

Abberline *to Webster*  I am relieved to hear that.  *to Manouche*  Kat?  I guess I will never understand her. Did you hear, she even thanked me for the roses.  Can you wait for me outside, I'll get ready.  I've got enough of hospitals for a lifetime.

Manouche:  Absolutely, Inspector.  I insist on seeing that you get home safely, you’ve been through a lot.  I'll be waiting outside.  *To Webster, shakes his hand*  Sir, it’s a great pleasure.  I’m very glad you’ll be protectin’ Mr. Abberline’s interests, as it were.  *leaves room, walks through hospital calmly, playing the professional doctor.  Goes outside, rounds up Blake and Raven, jumps up and down*  He’s comin’, loves, he’s been sprung!  It’s all Kat’s doin’, wait’ll ye hear.

Raven *beams*  Father!  *Starts to run for entrance*

Manouche *grabs him, pulls him back*  Steady on, lil’ mate, we’d best take care, savvy?  Let’s wait ‘ere, he’ll be out any minute.  *They watch entrance from around corner, in case Portsmith returns, waiting for Abberline to come out*

Abberline *is about to leave the room when the male nurse Sebastian bursts in, agitated with some papers in his hands*  Trouble?

Sebastian:  No, on the contrary.  Dr. Rainey's got to be the best doctor I ever met.  Take a look at these. *show the results of the blood tests*  This is simply amazing, just compare these results with those when you were taken in.  I have never in my life seen such a fast recovery, you must have an excellent constitution.  Look at these!  Everything is just perfect, and only in a few days.  Like you were a new man.

Abberline *takes a quick glance*  Amazing what a few days in hospital can do ...

Sebastian:  Give my regards to the Commander.  She must be pleased to get you back on duty.

Abberline:  Yea.  Thrilled.  *goes to the reception desk.*

Receptionist:  You don't have to check out, Mr. Abberline.  Everything is taken care of.

Abberline:  I know.  Say ... you do have a nurse working here …  *hesitates, then gives the description of the blonde night nurse*

Receptionist:  Of course.  Would you like to see her?  She's right here.  Wait a minute.

Abberline:  Won't be necessary ...  *but the receptionist is already gone, returns soon with the night nurse.  In daylight, the resemblance isn't so striking*

Abberline:  I am leaving now.

Nurse:  Yes, I heard.

Abberline:  The roses were fine.  Thank you.

Nurse:  There isn't yet a woman born who can resist roses.

Abberline *an image of Portsmith with roses flashes in his mind*  Maybe ...  *taps nervously with his fingers at the desk*  I wanted to see if you were real or just a nightly vision.  *smiles*  Never mind.  You reminded me of someone long lost ...  But the dead stay dead and are gone forever.  They don't exist anywhere.

Nurse *not quite understanding, puts her hand on his*  They exist in memories.  You know where to find me if you want to talk.

Abberline:  I know.  I have to go now.  Goodbye.  *turns and leaves without looking back, realizing that he didn't even ask her name, bumps right into Daphne.*

Daphne *whispers*  Did you solve the case already?

Abberline:  Yes.  Almost.  I made a breakthrough.

Daphne *exitedly*  That's exactly what they said, too!

Abberline *puzzled*  Who?

Daphne:  Hey, you don't have to pretend I don't know.  The secret agents!

Abberline:  What agents?

Daphne *sighs, explains patiently*  The secret ones, savvy.  With shades and long trenchcoats, just like in films.  They didn't introduce themselves ‘cause they said that they wouldn't be secret anymore if I knew who they were.  They told me to give this to you from our FRIEND.  *winks*

Abberline *takes the small vial, puzzled*  Right.  Thank you.  *Finally, he's out, joins Manouche, Blake and Raven, opens his arms to Raven, who runs towards him; lifts him up*  Well, I am out now.  *to Manouche, suspiciously*  What was that secondary address about?

Manouche *smiling with pleasure at Raven’s joy, replies to Abberline*  Jus’ a precaution, mate.  Ye ‘ave a lawyer lookin’ out fer ye, now.  I reckoned it would be good fer him to ‘ave more than one way t’ contact ye.  *lowers voice*  It’s … it’s with all that’s goin’ on these days.  We all ‘ave t’ be very careful, savvy?  Willy, he teases me sometimes about me feelin’s when somethin’s amiss.  Says I worry too much.  But … I were with Alifi, as I mentioned.  I saw things with her, I learned things …  *her voice trails off, she glances around to make sure they’re not overheard, then sighs*  Ahh, but this ain’t th’ place to discuss it all, is it?  Besides, ye still need t’ rest up.  Ye may be out o’ hospital, luv, but ye still went through a lot an’ should take care.  We’ll ‘ave a longer talk about it all soon, not jus’ yet.  *smiles*  Blimey, ye must feel like y’ were released from prison!  Where would ye like to go?  Wherever it is, looks like ye ain’t goin’ alone.  *grins, motions to Raven, who’s clinging to him happily*

Abberline:  You are not trying to get me into another prison, are you?  I don't need any rest.  I am fine.  *manages a faint smile*  Listen, why don't you go beforehand.  I forgot something important in the room.  I'll come after you.  *to Raven*  I promise, I won't be long.

Manouche *starts to say something, then thinks better of it*  Yer right, mate, ye’ve been watched enough as of late.  We don't mean t' smother, we jus' care about ye, is all.  *nods*  We ‘ave an accord.  *notices Raven’s disappointment as Abberline hugs him tightly, then reluctantly sets him back down on the sidewalk.  She puts a hand on the boy's shoulder, speaks to him*  This is th’ perfect time t’ make another drawin’ fer yer dad, savvy?  An’ ye can be thinkin’ about what ye’ll want in that nice new room o’ yers at his house, once he’s prepared it fer ye.  *glances up at Abberline, winks*

Raven:  Okay …  *looks up at Abberline, brightens*  I know just what to draw next.

Manouche:  Right, then, let’s get home.  *to Abberline*  See ye there, mate, don’t be too long.  *They leave, Raven walking between Manouche and Blake; he turns and waves at Abberline once more, and they head back to the house*

Abberline *watches them go, and when they have disappeared from view, he turns to the opposite direction, determined to go to his house, but somehow he ends at From Hell Court.  Walks down the familiar steps to the dimly-lit hazy basement, more comfortable to him than his home; looks out for Malachi, hoping not to see him, and when he sees that the coast is clear, he sinks down on the couch and lights a pipe … *

At Manouche and Blake’s house:

Manouche *hangs up doctor’s coat on back of bedroom door*  I’ll ‘ave t’ get that back to th’ hospital.  Not too keen on anyone with th’ name Rainey bearin’ a grudge against me!  *laughs, turns to see Raven staring out window, waiting for Abberline*  C’mon, luv, ye won’t make ‘im come any faster starin’ at th’ road.  He said he’ll be ‘ere, an’ be ‘ere he shall.

Raven *says nothing, continues to gaze out window*

Blake *appears in doorway, looks at Manouche, who shakes her head; speaks to Raven*  I was thinking it might be nice to take the boat out on the river later, when Abberline gets here.  It’s been in storage, needs a little work an’ cleanup.  Raven, why don’t you give me a hand?  It’ll make the time go faster, an’ by the time we finish, I bet he’ll be here.

Manouche *speaks brightly*  Ah, that’s a grand idea, love!  What say ye, lil’ mate?

Raven *shrugs, reluctantly turns away from window, jumps down, comes over to Blake*  Okay … but let’s not take too long, he’ll be here any minute.  *smiles up at him*

Blake *nods, smiles back*  C’mon, son.  *puts hand on his shoulder, leads him out of the room; glances at Manouche, concerned*

Manouche *watches them go; turns to window, takes up the vigil*  Come ON, Inspector ... ye promised ...