At Manouche and Blake’s house:

Manouche *wearily returns to the house from The Viper early next morning, the effects of the absinthe still fairly potent in her system.  It's still very dark, daylight is just barely beginning to break.  She lets herself into the house quietly, sees Abberline still sprawled out on the couch.  She goes to the kitchen, makes coffee, adds a shot of kaluha, sits brooding, staring out kitchen window.*

Abberline *wakes up.  He rises up slowly and winces at the sharp pain in his head.  The stuff yesterday did not grant him oblivion, he remembers clearly what happened yesterday – until he left From Hell Court.  Why the hell did he end up here instead of his own house?  As no one seems to be awake yet, he decides to slip quietly away, but he's tempted by the pleasant smell of coffee from the kitchen, walks to the door – and stops there when he sees Manouche.*

Manouche:  Ahh, so ye are still among th’ livin’, ay?  *stands up, gets a cup, pours coffee, sets it on table*  C’mon, ‘ave a seat.  Y’ be wantin’ anything in it?  *looks at him askance*  Naah, per’aps not th’ first cup.  Let’s get them eyes open first.  *sits back down*

Abberline:  No, I don't want anything.  *takes the cup, stirs the coffee, then looks straight at her*  I don't have any explanation for what happened yesterday.  *smiles a wry smile*  Are you now regretting you helped me out from the hospital?

Manouche *shrugs*  That weren’t me, mate, that were yer attorney.  No explanation ... aye, that makes everythin’ easier, don’t it.  I’m sure Raven’ll buy right into that’un.  I reckon a son’s a sticky commodity fer one as busy an’ lackin’ in explanations as yerself.  *looks at him*  Are ye regrettin’ bein’ out of hospital?

Abberline *taken aback for her unusually harsh words*  No, I don't regret it.  But you would want me back there ...  And don't say that about!  I am not like that, I just ... I just forgot ... I was going after something I forgot in the room.  *stops*  No, I was going home ...  *lowers his eyes*  I intended to be right back.  So *still nervously stirring the coffee* … did he wait for me?

Manouche *groans, buries her face in her hands*  Keep practicin’, ye want to ‘ave yer story straight once lil’ mate comes in.  That were terrible.  Better try again.  *stands up, goes to counter, pours more coffee.  Drinks, leans against the counter*  Aye, he waited fer ye.  We all did.  Worst of it was, he knew where ye were, as did I.  So there were no point in tryin’ t’ cover fer ye.  Hard to keep secrets from a son who’s a dreamer.  Ye may want t’ write that down, fer future reference.  I hope th’ high y’ experienced last night was bloody well worth it.  *shakes head, disgusted, reaches in pocket; pulls out cigarettes, lights one.*  What the ‘ell were ye on, anyway?  I never seen ye like that … y’ looked more like th’ dragon were chasin’ you.

Abberline *still keeping his eyes on the coffee cup*  All right, I don't know what got into me ... I know he is disappointed in me, and I know you are too, but ...  *sighs, pushes the cup away*  It was not what you think, I just was trying to see one more time ... *thinks for a while but decides against telling about the dream he was trying to get back* … but it failed ... I was all right until I took that vial that Malachi sent me.  I don't remember anything after that, but I guess that doesn't help me much.  *Takes a cigarette but forgets to light it, plays with it until it breaks*   Everything just failed.  *desperately*  I just simply forgot ... *looking at Manouche warily*  Where is he?

Manouche *knows she should keep calm, but she can’t.  Out of patience, she grabs him, pulls him to his feet, slams him against the wall; speaks barely above a whisper, though the anger in her voice is apparent*  What th’ hell d’ ye mean “ye’ fergot,” or, everythin’ jus’ failed”??  That ain’t good enough, mate.  Disappointed is puttin’ it mildly, ye broke his heart.  Truth be told, I’m scared, I’m scared half t’ death, an’ if ye had th’ sense of a goat, ye’d be scared, too.  Raven, he …..  *stops, blinks, looks at him intently*  Wait, half a mo’ … what’d ye say?  A vial Malachi SENT t’ ye?  Malachi don’t send things, mate, ever.  He’s much too careful fer that.  Bloody 'ell, it sounds like someone slipped ye somethin'.  Who’d ye get it from?  An' what was it, what did it look like—

Blake *rushes into kitchen breathless, face pale*  Manouche … Raven’s gone.  He’s not in his room.

Manouche *releases Abberline*  N-not in ‘is room … but …  *they become aware of the sound of sirens in the distance.  They look at each other, then bolt from the house.  They follow the sound, running through town, till they reach the destination – Abberline’s neighborhood.  Sirens turn out to be fire trucks, arriving at Abberline’s house … they stop and stare at the horrific sight of Bournemouth House in flames*

Manouche:  RAVEN!!  *starts to run for house*

Blake *grabs her, holds her back*  Honey, NO.  Stay back.  He’s NOT THERE.  He -- he couldn’t be … *tries to think quickly*  Honey, listen to me … contact him.  You can do it, see where he is.  Focus, like Alifi always told you … concentrate.

Manouche *stops struggling, tears running down her face, tries to concentrate.  Finally sees a vision of Raven, at their house, coming out of his room, dressed; seeing Abberline unconscious on the couch, staring at him for a few minutes.  Then he leaves the house quietly, finds his way to Bournemouth House.  Front door is unlocked, he lets himself in … then the vision gets muddled, she can’t make it out, though she sees silhouettes of two or three large figures … then she sees a flash of white feathers streak out an upstairs window as the first flames start to consume the lower level.  The vision fades*  Oh, blimey … lil’ mate, what ‘ave ye done?  *starts to sob, leans against Blake, who holds her close.*

Fireman *a really cute fireman – note to readers, we need a firefighter or two in the Deppville Extras, lol! – approaches them*  Stand back, folks … there’s extensive damage, but we’ve got it under control, the house isn’t destroyed.  And we’re pretty sure no one was home, thank god.  *looks at them*  Can you tell me who owns this place?

Abberline *shocked*  Are you sure there was no one?  How can you know that it was empty?  *tries push past the firefighters but he is restrained*  Let me go, that is my house!

Fireman:  This is your house?  Then we’ll need to ask you a few questions, sir.

Blake *quietly, to Manouche*  Maybe we better call his lawyer ...

Manouche *raises her head, looks at Abberline, the fireman still holding him firmly by the arm.  She catches his eye, they exchange a fearful look.  Then Abberline glances up, stares, mouth open.  Manouche follows his gaze, sees white raven high up in a tree above them.  She moans, faints; Blake catches her, slowly brings her to ground.  White raven flies from perch, swoops down toward them all.  As it flutters close to Abberline, one of its feathers falls; Abberline catches it.  The bird continues on, flying toward the docks.*

Abberline *looks after the white raven fluttering away till it vanishes out of his sight, forgetting Manouche and Blake, and his burning house, completely at a loss what to do.*

*Stewart, Abberline's insurance agent approaches*  Excuse me, my card.  *hands card to fireman, who releases Abberline, reads card.  Stewart turns to Abberline*  Inspector, I can take over from here.  I'm sure it's routine.  If we need you, we'll contact you.  *looks at house doubtfully*  Ahh, where can I reach you?

Blake *as Manouche is reviving*  Inspector, you can stay with us, if you want.  Till this is all sorted out.

Abberline *to Blake*  I don't know.  I don't think I will ...  *gives the insurance agent the address to Godley's apartment*  You can contact me here.  *stares at the house, still dazed, turns to the agent*  It must have been some kind of accident.  I doubt there's much to investigate.

Manouche *stands up, goes to Abberline, puts a hand on his arm*  I- I'm sorry I were a bit hard on ye, mate.  Do as y' see fit.  But I ... I ‘ave a few things I need t’ talk to ye about.  Somethin' I found out about th' Commander.  So when y' feel up to it, jus' let me know.  Savvy?  *looks out in the direction Raven flew; turns back to Abberline, voice breaks*  D-don’t worry, he loves ye.  He’ll come back, I promise.  I know … I jus’ know.

Abberline  *glances at the insurance agent, lowering voice*  He flew towards the port.. I should probably go and find him. I don't care about the house.  I have to find him ... He must be feeling bad, and it is my fault. *to the agent*  I suppose I can leave, or is there something you need me for here?

Stewart *raises a brow when he hears the words of not caring about the house* 

Abberline: *to Manouche*  Commander Portsmith?  What's she got to do about this?  She wouldn't burn my house I hope.  *looks at the agent*  I didn't mean it.

Stewart *raises the brow still higher*  Do you suspect that it was arson?

Abberline:  No.  It must have been the fireplace.  I didn't use it for a long time until some days ago.  The fire must have started from there.  I have been away.

Manouche:  N-no, I doubt that it were arson.  An accident, no doubt.  *to Abberline*  Me news of th' Commander 'as nothin' to do with this, as far as I know.  But take care, mate ... I found somethin' ... from th' hospital ... ye really need t' know about it.  We'd best not talk about it 'ere.  *smiles disarmingly at Stewart*

Abberline *casts one more look at the house*  There's nothing more for me to do here now.  *nods to Stewart, they leave* 

Blake *turns to Abberline as they walk away from the scene*  Well ... it's good that the house wasn't destroyed.  Insurance will probably cover the damage.

Manouche:  Aye.  Inspector, we'll head home now, an' leave ye to it.  Let us know if y' see lil' mate ... I know he's a tough lil' bloke, but I worry 'bout 'im nonetheless.  Still, I reckon he's sound.  Jus' needs some time t' himself, I reckon.  Apple don't fall too far from th' tree, does it?  *nods toward the white feather that Abberline still holds*  Hang onto that, mate.  They're lucky.

Blake *smiles slightly, pulls a white feather out of his coat*  Seems to work for me.  *puts feather away, wraps arm around Manouche, they turn for home.*

Abberline:  He wants to punish me ...  He would be better off without me, or with someone as you, Blake, or Godley, as father, I only manage to upset and disappoint him.  I am worried more about him than the house, there wasn't much.  *stops, looks back at the house as he finally realizes what damage the fire may have done*  I got to go back.  Insurance will not cover for everything, not the most valuable things I own ... My keepsakes, for god's sake ...  I have to go back!  *he turns around and returns to the house, goes to the door past the fireman who tries to prevent him from going in, stops at the doorway of the living room and stares at the scene, the blackened walls, and all his papers reduced to ashes.  He winces as he thinks about the cardboard boxes and their contents.*

Stewart *following him in*  You have to make a list of all valuable belongings.

Abberline:  Not necessary.  The only valuable things I had cannot be replaced.

At From Hell Court:

Raven *having resumed his shape, strolling the streets, not quite sure where he’s headed.  Finally chooses a tavern, waits till he sees a group of people enter, walks in with them, gets in unnoticed.  Looks around, squinting from the heavy cigarette smoke, sees the stairs leading down to the opium den.  Makes his way through the crowd – having arrived at a very busy time – manages to get down the stairs, still nobody stops him, nobody seems to notice.  Glances around, sees people in varying degrees of bliss, or a reasonable facsimile.  Walks up to one man who’s lying sprawled on a palette on the floor, his eyes almost completely closed.*  Hey mister ... c-can I try some of that?  *indicates long bamboo pipe*

Man *gazes at him, barely seeing him.  Says nothing, holds pipe out to him*

Raven *takes the pipe, puffs on it gingerly, starts to cough; people around him grumble at his noise, he tries to suppress it.  He's about to try it again when he feels a hand roughly grab the pipe from him, followed by a sharp voice*

Hey, kid, what the hell are you doing here?

Raven *turns to see Malachi looking at him incredulously; his eyes widen, he turns to bolt.*

Malachi *grabs him*  Easy, kid, I’m not gonna bust you.  Don’t run away … let’s just talk, okay?  *He looks around, leads Raven to a tiny room off the main room; peeks in first, is relieved to see no one else is there.  They enter, Malachi motions for Raven to sit on one of the low beds, he sits on the one across from him.  Pulls out cigarettes, lights one*  Now, let me ask again … what the hell are you doing here?  And how did you get in without anyone stopping you?  *grins wryly*  Pete, that’s the owner, he’d freak right out if he knew you were in here.  He could lose his license.  Although, people don’t care much what goes on here, so he’d probably get away with it.  *looks at Raven intently*  Out with it, son.

Raven *sullen, mumbling*  I came to find the dragon everyone keeps talking about.  Just … just thought I’d come see why my father would rather be here than with me.  *looks down at floor*

Malachi *smokes, feels uncomfortable*  Oh … ahh, kid, I’m sure that ain’t true.  Your dad just … *looks at him carefully, smirks*  You’re feeling that stuff, aren’t you?

Raven *blinking staring at Malachi, his eyes bright*  Ooohhhhhh ……. wh-why do people like this stuff, Malachi?

Malachi *laughs*  That’s a bloody good question, kid!  Sometimes I think --- uh-oh, hold on!  *sees Raven lose consciousness, start to fall, catches him.  Looks at him helplessly.*  Oh, man … I gotta get you out of here.  *stands, picks Raven up, tries to conceal him with part of his coat.  Leaves room, picks his way through crowd, up the stairs.  Is almost to the door when Pete’s voice freezes him in his tracks*

Hey!  What th’ hell … Malachi, are you crazy??

Malachi *turns, glares at him*  Took the words right out of my mouth.  There I am, minding my own business, and this kid comes waltzin’ in downstairs like he owns the joint.  What the hell’s the matter with you, letting a little kid like this in?  He’s here all on his own, too.  I got a good mind to …

Pete *holds hands up*  Okay, take it easy, I thought he was yours!  Just get him outta here, savvy?

Malachi *snorts indignantly, leaves the tavern.  Glances around streets cautiously, makes a quick dash for his apartment building, takes Raven upstairs … unaware of the men in trench coats and dark glasses, watching from a car down the street*

At Ichy's office: 

Ichy *Having once again turned away from approaching The Apparition returns to his office.  Enters closes door turns and comes face to face with Kat* 

Ichy:  What are you doing here?  You must know by now I have to arrest you.

Kat:  I know you sold me out.  But there's something I gotta know.  Will gettin' me 'anged be your cure?  Give ye that sense of accomplishment that comes with a job well done, eh?  Do Portsmith proud.  'ang a pirate, any pirate, guilty or not.

Ichy:  You won't hang.

Kat:  Oh!  I see, and you're certain of that.  How's that, luv?  Yer servin' me up on a silver platter.

Ichy *runs hand through his hair*  I was angry and I couldn't stop.  There's other evidence that'll clear you.

Kat:  Then why arrest me?  Just give up this evidence and clear me now.

Ichy:  Why?  So you can run right back to your precious psychic connection.

Kat:  This be not about him.  It's about 'ow much poison is runnin' in yer veins.  Is yer job law and justice or are ye just Portsmith's flunky?

Ichy *Angrily*  It's not about Portsmith either!

Kat *takes a step back*  Then what's it about??

Ichy:  You and me.

Kat:  You arrest me on a lie, and there be no you and me and that's a fact!  Do what ye must.*  Turns to door, carefully checks hall; slips out, leaving Ichy standing.*

At From Hell Court:

Malachi *enters his apartment carrying Raven, lies him down on couch, goes back to door, locks it.  Stands facing door for a moment, hand leaning against it, thinking; turns, jumps with a start as he sees Raven awake and staring at him*  Jeez!  *recovers, looks at him*  Ah, feeling a little better?

Raven:  I guess so.  I’m hungry.

Malachi *smirks*  You obviously didn’t smoke very much of that stuff, or you wouldn’t be interested in food.  *comes over to him*  Seriously, kid, don’t mess with that stuff anymore.  You don’t want to get started down that road.

Raven:  But you do it.

Malachi *waves his arms around the room*  Yeah, and look where I am today.  *shakes head, goes to kitchen, looks for something to eat; finds peanut butter and one remaining heel from a loaf of bread.  Spreads peanut butter on it, pours glass of water, brings them to Raven*  Here you go … nothin’ but the best for us dragon-chasers.  *drops down in chair next to couch, lights cigarette*

Raven *bites into bread, drinks some of the water*  They tried to burn Father’s house down.

Malachi:  What?  What house?  Who?

Raven:  Two men.  Father was late coming to Manouche and Mr. Blake's house, an' I was mad at him, he promised he'd be there.  But he went to that tavern instead, instead of comin' to see me.  So I went to his house after I saw him asleep on Manouche's couch.  I wanted to do something bad, I wanted to ruin something he cared about.  But when I got there, the men were already starting the fire.  They saw me, an’ one of ‘em said it’d be a good idea to kill me in the fire, let Father know they mean business … an’ the other one said, you're crazy, don’t you know what this kid is?  Then they tried to catch me … I don’t know what they were gonna do with me … but I got away.  Then the fire got real bad, an’ I flew out … an’ that’s when I decided to come here.

Malachi *frowns*  Two men … You have no idea who they were?  *Raven shakes his head*  Well, I guess the Inspector has his share of enemies, could’ve been anyone.  Still … why would they say that about you, unless they knew about you, and what you can do … *pauses*  What were you planning to do at your dad's house?

Raven:  I – I don’t know … I was mad.  Just wanted to do something I knew he wouldn’t like.  I thought about a fire when I first got the idea, but by the time I got to the house … I didn’t want to do that anymore.  *concentrates*  Those men … I … I think … I think they work with the men who … who gave that nurse the drug for Father … *voice trails off, he looks at Malachi, confused*  I – I’m not seeing it right … maybe ‘cause I smoked that stuff …

Malachi:  Guess you don’t respond to it the way your dad does, it seems to enhance his visions.  *pauses, looks at him sharply*  Wait … Nurse?  From the hospital?

Raven *nods*  She has red hair.

Malachi:  Someone gave her something to give to your dad?  *brings hand up to forehead*  Ahhh, bloody hell …  *looks at him*  Listen, Raven, this is no place for you.  You need to go home, or wherever you're staying.  You staying with Manouche and Blake?

Raven:  No … I’m staying with my mother.

Malachi *eyes him keenly*  You’re lying.

Raven *looks at him, startled, then gets stubborn look on his face*  You don’t need to worry about me, I’ll take care of myself.  I was on my own when I was younger, I don't need anybody.

Malachi:  Nothin’ doin’, kid, Manouche would have my head if she knew I let you walk out of here and wander around alone.  Especially with everything that’s goin’ on right now.  *stands up*  C’mon, I’ll take you back to them.

Raven:  NO!  *looks furious, shimmers, changes into white raven; flies crazily toward window, doesn’t see it’s shut, smashes into it, drops to floor, motionless.*

Malachi:  Oh god … *runs over to him, picks him up carefully, relieved to feel his heart beating; brings him over to couch, lays him down gently, watches him anxiously.  Breathes a sigh of relief as he starts to revive, softly flapping his wings.  Malachi shakes his head*  Poor kid, this really ain’t your night …

Outside Malachi’s building:

Mr. Black: *nods to himself*  So now we know where he is hiding.  What disgusting places there are in this small town that looks so neat.  How can the Commander let these kinds of places exist?  

Mr. Brown *picks up his machine gun, opens the car door*  I will go and get him. 

Mr. Black *grabs his arm*  No!  If we take him now, Manouche will escape.  We need to have them both in the same place.  We can use that miserable drug abusing Inspector to get them all together.  I have a plan.

Mr. Brown *tries to hide his disappointment and puts the gun away*  But we should rid the world of all those drug users.

Mr. Black: That we will do.  In time.

At Deppville Hospital:

Portsmith *goes to the hospital to collect her papers, asks for Sebastian*

Portsmith:  I want the medical records of Abberline, and especially the form back, now that the treatment is postponed for a while.

Sebastian:  Don't worry, Commander.  He took the papers with and the form with him and I am sure he will return it to you signed.

Portsmith:  Bloody fool!  How can you let patients view their own records!  *composes herself*  You have made a grave mistake and now you owe me.  And yes, I am sure he will return it signed.  And soon.  We must get him under proper treatment.

Sebastian:  Commander, I am sorry and I will do whatever you want to correct my error.  But the detox was very effective, you should have seen the test results.  Dr. Rainey was very satisfied with his condition.  She must have made some important breakthrough with these detox cures.  Never seen it work so fast.

Portsmith:  Indeed?  I'll have to have a word with this Dr. Rainey then.  It might have worked fast, but addictions are not cured in a few days.

Sebastian *looks after Portsmith*  It is amazing how she takes time to care for her staff like that.

At Bournemouth House:

Stewart *the insurance agent has been inspecting the house and evaluating the damage*  The fire brigade came in time to save the house.  You had luck with you.

Abberline *still looking at the wreck that was his living room*  Did I?

Stewart:  So, let's go over this once again.  Are you really telling me that you left a fire in the fireplace unattended?

Abberline:  I did.  I forgot.

Stewart:  Do you realize what that means?  The fire must have been smouldering for a long time.  It must have flared up for some reason suddenly, probably a because of a draught.

Abberline:  I may have left the door unlocked.  Maybe a wind blew it ajar. 

Stewart:  You had the fire unattended and the door open when you went out and didn't return for a few days.  Right?

Abberline:  I had an accident and had to stay a few days at the hospital.

Stewart *takes his notepad and jots down something*  But still, that was very careless of you.  *walks further, takes his cell phone and calls the hospital, talks for a while, listens, glancing at Abberline in surprise, after the call returns to him*  They confirmed the accident.

Abberline:  You don't trust my word?

Stewart:  Just checking, for our records.  I will contact you later.  *takes his notepad and writes down:*

- Does not seem very concerned about his house burning down
- Is clearly hiding something, maybe even lying
- Insurance fraud?
- Indifference?
- Carelessness?
- Was at the hospital in detox/Alcohol and drugs found in blood

*to himself*  Looks like a clear case to me.  There will be no insurance coverage.  And he's supposed to be an officer of the law.  Whatever is this world coming to?

Abberline *leaves the house, still stunned about the damage done to his valuable files, papers and letters, feeling anger rising towards Raven, flings the feather he still has in his hands to the ground and walks right back to From Hell Court to his favourite place and grabs his pipe.* 

At From Hell Court:

Malachi *smoking cigarette, watching Raven carefully.  He has shifted back to his usual state after having injured himself trying to go through the window; he now lies on the couch, in a state that seems to be somewhere between sleep and unconsciousness; tossing fitfully, as if dreaming.  Malachi finds himself feeling agitated, knows he must get out for a few minutes.  Mutters to himself*  Follow your own advice, thickhead … concentrate.  *He clears his mind, tries to think what’s nagging at him … sees that he’s drawn to the opium den, and he knows why.*

*He stands, grabs coat, hat, dark glasses, throws a thin blanket over Raven, leaves the apartment, double-locks the door.  Makes his way downstairs, glances around before emerging onto the street, swiftly makes his way to the familiar tavern where, by now, some of the crowd has cleared out.  He goes to the back, takes the stairs to the opium den, speaks to the man at the door about a small purchase to take with him.  Looks around, sees Abberline; nods, approaches him.*  Long time no see, Inspector.

Abberline *makes him room beside him and puts down the pipe which he just took into his hands, instead he lights a cig* So is this your hideout?  Isn't it a bit too obvious? If you think the Order has given up on you, you are wrong. An if you came to offer me more of your stuff, I am not taking it anymore. I would have expected something more intelligent from you than disguising yourself as a secret agent for that daft red-head.

Malachi *sits down next to him*  Believe me, I know all too well the Order hasn't given up on me.  I'm sure they're watching my every move.  Trick is to make sure I'm never alone, in an isolated spot.  *lights cigarette*  It would appear we’ve both been had by that daft redhead.  The only time I gave her anything to pass along to you was when you were in the hospital.  I had to do it that way, it would’ve been too risky for you and me both if I’d been seen bringing you anything while you were there.  Can you imagine what would’ve happened, if word got back to Portsmith that I’d come to visit you bearing gifts, as it were?  Anything you got from her since then was not from me, mate.  I don’t know who the secret agent was … I’m trying to decide if I even want to bother talking to her again.  She’s an eyeful, I’ll grant … but she’s exhausting.  *shakes head, then remembers something*  Oh, by the way … I’ve been meaning to get this back to you … *reaches in coat, pulls out photo of Victoria, hands it to him*  You dropped this awhile back, I didn’t see it till you’d left.  *glances around*  We may have been sitting right about here.  *imitates Manouche*  Funny ol’ world, innit?

Abberline *with a faint smile, takes the photo, puts it in his pocket*  You must think I am sentimental.  Thanks.  *after a long pause*  If I were you, I'd still be careful, you should know them as well as I do.  They just might tire of waiting and raid this den.  They don't count victims or care if someone is innocent.  *again, after a longish pause*  That might, in fact, be a good option, after all.  The world's anything but funny.  Seems to me that I was more daft than your redhead, but I still can't figure out what it was, and why it was given to me and by whom.  I passed right out and missed something important.  And now I am here instead of trying to put things straight.  *pick up the pipe*  Raven set my house on fire.  I saw him there.  I can't believe he'd do anything like that.

Malachi *has been listening absently, but at the last, he looks at Abberline sharply*  Is that what you think?  Inspector, you’re dead wrong.  Raven interrupted two men who were setting your house on fire.  They tried to catch him, who knows what they would’ve done to him.  But he got away.  *pauses*  You want to know how I know this.  *sighs*  He told me … he’s up at my apartment right now.  He’s recovering, he was … in kind of a bad way … but he’s fine, no worries.  Place is locked up tight, too, dead bolt an' all, he's quite safe.  Still, I should get back.  *glances around for the man he met at the door*  Where is that fool with my order?  Reckon there are certain consumers' goods that don’t lend themselves well to carry-out service, eh, Inspector?

Abberline *brightening up*  And I was ready to believe that it was him!  I should have known better .... Never mind your goods, what do you mean in a bad way?  Was he hurt in the fire?  Hm ...  could I come with you?

Malachi *scratches head*  Thing is, I’m not sure it’s such a good idea for you to see him right now.  It’s not my business, and I won’t fight you on it, if you insist.  But … he’s upset, Inspector, he’s angry, and he’s hurt.  He wasn’t injured in the fire … he came here last night.  Slipped in without anyone seeing him, came right down here and had his first taste of the stuff.  I saw him and stopped him before he’d had very much.  The stuff didn’t set well with him ... partly his age, I suppose, but I think also because of what he is, a shapeshifter, a dreamer.  Made him a little ill.  *sees the worry in Abberline’s face; reassures him*  He’ll be fine, don’t worry.  He’s sleeping it off.  *looks down, uncomfortable*   He … he said he was trying it because he wanted to know why you preferred being here instead of being with him.  *pauses for a few minutes, thinks about it, reconsiders*  At the same time, he really shouldn’t be at my place.  It’s dangerous, and I can’t be watching him every second.  He should be with his family … so, yeah, I think you should come collect him.  Take care of your own, eh, mate?  *looks up, brightens as man approaches him with small package*  Ahhh, here we are!  Nice doin' business with ya.  *pulls out some money, gives it to him; he bows to Malachi, walks away, Malachi pockets the opium*  Well, Inspector, shall we go?  You and the kid need to settle your differences, and I sure as hell don’t need to be in the middle of all that.  That’s more Manouche’s style.  *smirks*  Little fool, she’ll never learn.

Abberline *horrified*  Oh gods, I don't want him to follow down the same path.  Manouche accused me of breaking his heart ... I know that broken hearts can never be mended.  *looks at Malachi's package*  What a quick and easy way that is to ease pain.  You know, I had a strange dream.  I have regretted since that I did not open the gate.  I should have done that ...  *gets up, smiles at Malachi's puzzled look* Never mind.  I'll have to face him sooner or later ... I just don't know what to say to him.  But I guess I have to try. 

Malachi *grins*  Well, I’m not quite sure what you’re talking about, but that’s between you and yourself.  Come on, let’s see how your son’s doing.  I have to admit, I don’t think I buy into that theory that broken hearts can’t be mended theory.  I reckon when it’s your own flesh and blood, it’s your duty to try to do the mending, anyway.  *they stand, leave the tavern; as he’s grown accustomed to doing, Malachi once again scans the street carefully before they step outside.  Whispers to Abberline*  Don’t look over there, Inspector, but … we’re being watched.  I’ve seen that same car nearly every time I come out.  As long as there are people here on the street, I think we’re safe.  But let’s not press it.  *they walk quickly to Malachi’s building, enter, head up the stairs.  Malachi takes out keys, unlocks the door.  They enter in time to see Raven looking at a small vial of liquid with interest.  He spins around, startled, tries to hide the vial behind his back*

Malachi *stern*  Put it down, kid, on the table, NOW.  *walks over quickly, picks up vial; feels his heart in his throat as he realizes Raven had found a very potent drug.  He swallows, calms his voice before turning to Raven; he speaks casually, thinking it’s best not to make too big a deal of it*  Always ask first, savvy?  *He takes the vial, puts it back in the refrigerator.*

Raven *mumbling*  I was just looking at it … *looks up and notices Abberline for the first time.  His face flushes as his first thought is that he’s glad to see him; then he remembers his hurt, lowers his eyes, speaks, his voice barely audible*  H-hello, Father.

Abberline *embarrassed, remains standing in the doorway*  Well, I am here now.  But if you want, I'll go.  I'd want to stay.  *takes a step towards Raven*  I'd want to be with you.  Don't think for a moment that I'd rather be down there, it's just the way I've been living for too long ...

Raven *steps back cautiously as Abberline steps toward him.  He stops, raises his eyes, looks at his father for what seems like a very long time.  Abberline is very uncomfortable; but he maintains, keeps looking back at him.  Raven takes a deep breath, sighs.*  Maybe … maybe we could go to the beach, Father.  Right now, just us.  *his eyes large, solemn, filled with doubt – but a tiny glimmer of hope*

At the Security building:

*Sergeant Godley returns straight to the Office from the station.  On the way to the Commander, he notices something:  by the door of Inspector Abberline's office is a shining new name plate:  Constable Ichabod Crane.  He peeks in, but there is no one inside.  Commander Portsmith's name plate, twice as big as Crane's, seems also to be new.  Commander M. Portsmith, it says, Security - Order - Purity - Truth. With a sigh, he knocks at the door though he thinks he hears voices inside.*

Portsmith: … this coat of arms is important.  Must have one.  What do you say of a unicorn?

Corso:  With all due respect, unicorns stand for innocence and they are badly outdated.  Haven't been in fashion since the Middle Ages.  Besides, they are white, and you need something more powerful.  I suggest this.  *shows him a drawing*

Portsmith:  Looks like a monster bat to me.  Are you poking fun at me, Dean?

Corso:  No, no, Commander, I never would do that, you know it.  This – this was the most powerful bird in the world, the Pterodactyl, just think what a majestic figure it cut in the air with its formidable wingspan, soaring high over the prehistoric landscape ...

Portsmith:  But they're fossils.  They're dead.

Corso:  And unicorns never existed.  It's is not only ancient and historical, it is more than that.  Power and force.  Strength.  Dominance.  They ruled the air for an incredibly long time.

Portsmith *beginning to look pleased*  Yes, you might have something ... *sees Godley in the doorway*  Oh, I see you are back.  But I paid for a two-week stay for you.  Why are you here now?  I told you that it was of utmost importance that he would not be disturbed during his recovery, not even by you.  Anyway, I have work for you.  You are to assist Constable Crane from now onward.

Godley *shrugs*  Well I am back.  I can do that, at least, while the Inspector is in detox.

Portsmith:  Oh yes, that would be fine.  Don't try to contact him in the meanwhile.  It's for his own best.  Constable Crane will give you your orders.

Godley:  Aye, Commander.

Portsmith *waves him off *  What about the background Dean, something that will look striking on the pedestal.  I want gold.  And a sword ...

At Colonel and Hanson’s house:

Manouche and Blake *arrive at Colonel and Hanson’s house, ring doorbell*

Manouche:  I hope she understands …

Blake:  She will, you’ll see.

Colonel *puts down her pad and paper, sees Hanson look up at her at the sound of the doorbell while in the middle of folding clothes, gets up and opens the door, smiles broadly*  Manouche,  *nods*  Blake, it's good to see you.

Hanson:  Please, c'mon in.  Don't be strangers.  *pushes the basket of folded clothes behind the couch*

Colonel *quickly glances at the notes on her pad with the paper she wrote up*

Manouche:  Good t’ see th’ pair o’ ye as well, luv.  *looks around*  Blimey, s’ a grand house ye ‘ave.  *grins at Colonel*  Looks like I found th’ right place fer that huge bed I sent ye fer housewarmin’.  It were never goin’ t’ fit anywhere in our house.

Blake:  Sorry to just drop in on you like this, but … well, Colonel, we want to talk to you about something, kinda important.  I guess we want to ask you a favor.

Hanson *smirks* The bed does wonders.

Colonel *whispers harshly* Hanson!

Hanson *laughs* Can withstand pressure.

Colonel *sighs, smirks* Hanson, please. No more. *gives him a pleading look*

Hanson *goes to say something*

Colonel: No! No more comments on it please, out! Go in the back yard, please. *guides him to the back door*

Hanson: But, I wasn't.

Colonel: I know, just please, no more about it. *laughs* It's embarrassing.

Hanson: Doesn't bother Penhall.

Colonel: *lowers her tone* You tell Penhall?

Hanson *laughs* Teasing, I'll be in the back if you need me.

Colonel *walks back over to Manouche and Blake* Aheh, he's like a kid, I swear *clears throat, gets back on topic* No trouble. Drop in anytime you want. Can I offer you two anything? Please sit down. Talk away, ask away. *smiles*

Blake *grins*  Ahh … he told me, too, Colonel.

Manouche *hand to forehead*  Blimey, ye blokes act like ten-year-olds when y’ get together, I swear.  *pauses, takes deep breath, looks at Colonel*  Right, ‘ere goes … we wanted t’ talk to ye about th’ fire … th’ fire that damaged Inspector Abberline’s house.  We figure yer plannin’ to report on it in th’ next issue of th’ Tattler, an’ we can see why.  It’s big news, innit?  It’d be daft t’ not make mention of it.  An’ we know it’s yer job t’ report th’ news ... an’ we know y’ take it very seriously … which is as it should be … *voice trails off, she looks at Blake*

Blake:  So we were wondering … I mean, as any investigative reporter can see, there are certain things here that look a little suspicious.  An’ … you’ve probably seen for yourself that there are a few facts that point to the Inspector’s son as a possible … well, that maybe he …

Manouche *to Colonel*  We want ye t’ put a spin on th’ story, mate.  A cover-up, as it were.  May as well call it what it is.  *looks at her anxiously*

Colonel *laughs* God, who didn't he tell? Ok...*thinks* I know of the fire, I was there, I saw Raven, I kept out of sight. I know Raven didn't do it, he might of had the motives, he may have thought Abberline deserved it, but I don't think he did it. *gathers up papers, pictures* I have pictures, I guess I'll end up being the Deppville Photographer also. But it doesn't add up. And this one in particular *hands photo to Blake and Manouche* caught my eye. Two men entering the back door here, *points to two figures* Then here is Raven *points*

I can do what I can. I can give them the truth with these figures. *shakes head* That won't do. It won't settle well with Portsmith. I'll put your spin on it, or I'll just say we don't know the cause.

I know the boy is at risk, possibilities that he might have done it. But I have a feeling he didn't do it.
So I'll be proud to 'censor' him out of it, as it were. Or, I don't have to do the article at all and just go with, no one knows how it was set ablaze.

Manouche *breathes a sigh of relief, Blake hugs her*  Ah, cheers, mate.  Yer doin’ a wonderful thing … Raven an’ his dad are ‘avin’ enough troubles between ‘em without bad press.  I know Raven didn’t do it.  He wouldn’t do somethin’ like that, he’s such a good lil’ bloke.  *examines photo*  Y’mind if I ‘ave a copy o’ this, mate?

Blake:  Colonel, thank you.  The Inspector, Raven, and Kat … they’ve been through so much.  In their own ways, they’re all trying to keep talking to each other.  This would be very hard on them.  *shuffles through Colonel’s notes.*  Once you finish the story, you probably better destroy all this.  Commander Portsmith has her ways of finding things … she has it in for the Inspector enough as it is, she doesn’t need more ammunition.

Manouche:  We’d best be on our way, luv.  I want t’ be back at th’ house in case lil’ mate shows up.  I want t’ be there if he needs us.  *They walk to the door, Manouche hugs Colonel*  Cheers, mate, thanks again.  We’ll see ye soon.

Blake *leans in, kisses Colonel on the cheek, nods toward back of house, grins*  You can let Hanson back in now.  *he puts his arm around Manouche, they leave, head for home*

Colonel:  Sure, take that photo with you.  I'm glad I could help.  *returns a hug to Manouche, and plants a kiss on Blake's cheek in return also, watches them leave, smiles.  Shuffles through papers, sighs, looks back at Hanson who fumbling with his thumbs, waiting patiently*  Isn't he cute!  *lets him back in*

Hanson:  Are you sure I can come back in?

Colonel:  Yes, why ask?

Hanson:  Are you sure you're sure?  *Colonel leans in, kisses him deeply*

Hanson:  Oh yea, you're sure.

Colonel:  Told ya.

Hanson:  So what went on?

Colonel:  They wanted me to keep Raven out of the article about the fire, censor him out.  I could just say that no one knows what started the fire and leave it at that.  I know Raven didn't do it.  The pictures tell all.  Then Blake said I should get rid of all of it.  I plan on burning it, so Portsmith doesn't find it.

Hanson *smiles*  You did a good thing.

Colonel:  Portsmith would beg to differ.  I just don't know why I've been sucking up.

Hanson:  You want to be good to others so they'll be good to you.

Colonel:  It's Portsmith, not a good bone in her body, maybe the cartilage of her nose, she can smell money from a mile away.  Although her uses for money aren't always good, either.  She tries, sometimes.  I already had to lie to her.

Hanson:  You did?  Why?

Colonel:  Collection of money.  She's funding for her statue.  I had to say that I was expecting and the kid would take away most of the finances.

Hanson *raises an eyebrow, laughs*  How will you get away with that for a long period of time?

Colonel *sigh*  Miscarriage.

Hanson *brings her close, caresses her hair, walks her over to the couch, holds her in his arms*  We will have kids, don't worry.

At From Hell Court:

Abberline *to Raven*  To the beach?  Now?  *checks himself just in time before telling him that he'd love to but he has important matters to attend to, before asking Raven whatever there is to do on a beach, frowns at himself, then nods to Raven, remembers the last time when Raven got mad and flew away*  Just you and me.

Raven *tries to pick up on what his father is thinking, but everything’s a jumble; final remnants of the opium in his system have left his senses a little blurry.  He looks at Abberline carefully*  Are you sure?  You sure you want to?  I just thought … the one time, we had fun there … so …

Malachi *slams palm on table*  Oh for cryin’ out loud!  *grabs Raven by the collar, pulls him over to Abberline, so they’re standing very close, facing each other*  Look, you two obviously care about each other, you’re both hurting over different things, and you keep locking oars, as it were.  Now this is all very touching, but I have things to do, and I bloody well don’t need this soap opera being dragged out for extra innings in my own living room.  Kid, hug your father.  Inspector, loosen the hell up and tell your son how you feel about him, the way you’re always telling US how you feel about him.  Quick about it, both of you, before I beat your damn heads together!  *folds arms, glares at them*

Raven *looks up at Abberline, moves forward, wraps his arms around him*  I - I love you, Father.

Abberline *finally dares to hug Raven. lifts him up, blushes*  There was really no need for that *to Raven*  We'll leave him to his miserable important things to do...*to Malachi, with a grin * Say hello for me to your adorable red-headed girl-friend and don't forget you shades and trenchcoat when you see her.

Malachi:  Very funny.  Go on, get outta here ... have fun at the beach.  *opens door, grins, reaches out and ruffles Raven's hair as they go through the door.  Closes door behind them, locks it.  Swiftly crosses the room, goes for his gun; steps over to window looking down on the street, opens it, keeps gun at the ready.  Watches them emerge from his building onto the sidewalk; keeps a sharp eye on the car parked across the street.  Breathes a sigh of relief as Abberline and Raven round the corner and are gone without incident.  Closes window, shakes head*  I gotta get back in the pirate trade.  This clean living'll be the death of me.