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At Bournemouth House:
Godley *comes back to the
living-room with two mugs of strong coffee, sits down in a chair.* Take this,
you'll feel better.
Abberline *takes the mug and puts it down* Raven was
here.
Godley: There's no one here but you and me.
Abberline: He was here. I told him to go to Manouche
or Kat. He came here instead.
Godley:
Why didn't you want him here?
Abberline: I do want him here, I
was going to fetch him later ...
Godley *shakes his head and sighs* You
can't treat him like that. The poor boy must be totally confused by your unaccountable
behavior. He can't trust you at all, never knows what mood you are in. What do you really want? *as Abberline doesn't answer, continues* He's probably at Manouche's. I can check
on him. *gets up and notices the notebook lying on the floor, takes it up.*
Abberline
*getting up from the chair, snatching the book from Godley* It's mine, it's private. He's been reading it ...
Godley *shrugs*
I'll come over later. Don't go anywhere.
Stay here.
Abberline: I will.
*leafing the book with a worried expression. To himself* Why did he have to find it … *closes the notebook, lights
a smoke, then a second one immediately when it goes out, then a third one, doesn't notice how the ashes fall off on the brand
new carpet, then he rises up and gets a brandy bottle from the kitchen. Returns
to the living room, hides the notebook in the breast pocket of his jacket. He
drinks directly from the bottle, till the bottle finally falls from his hands to the floor *
At Chez Roux:
Manouche *arrives at Chez
Roux at the time she suggested to Corso, takes a booth. Orders drink, lights
cigarette, watches door nervously, waiting for Corso to arrive*
Corso *enters Chez Roux,
looks around him nervously before he spots Manouche and slips into the booth, hissing to Manouche* What is it you want
now? Look, I already helped you and it got me in real trouble. Someone sees me here with you, and I am out of
the castle.
Manouche: Aye, I were afraid o’ that outcome, an’ I’m truly sorry, mate. I appreciate yer effort, an’ feel y’ earned th’ rare volumes I gave ye in exchange. Jus’ seekin’ a bit of information, after which I won’t be botherin’
ye again, I promise. *leans closer* We
‘ave a vampire in town, mate. I were thinkin’, with yer knowledge
an’ expertise, as it were, y’ might ‘ave some idea as to how to deal with ‘er. She’s already got a hold on Ichy. Can ye give us any
clue as t’ how she can be stopped? Kat an’ I, we’re at a loss.
Corso: A vampire? What kind of vampire? *gets excited* I never have seen a real vampire before. Though Dom Calmet does not believe that vampires are for real, there are several old
manuscripts relating incident of vampirism, like the Masticatione ... *stops
himself* That's not the information you need, isn't it? You need to know how to get rid of the vampire. That depends
on the vampire and how old she is ... I regret to say that we may not be able
to save Constable Crane if she's already feasted on him. But, no matter what
kind of vampire it is, no matter how strong, all the vampires have one common weak point ...
Manouche *smiles slightly* Ah, ye know yer lore, t’ be sure! I
‘ad a feelin’ ye would. Unfortunately, I don’t know much about
‘er, other than t’ be able to describe ‘er to ye. She’s
very beautiful … how do ye tell a vampire’s age, anyway? *shakes
head* Blimey, this’ll get us nowhere.
Apologies, luv, I should’ve known ye’d need more t’ go on than to simply be aware she’s ‘ere. *takes drink* Her name’s Loralee
… an’ she called me Danielle, fer some strange reason … she’s very powerful, t’ be sure. Wish there were a way y’ could observe ‘er from a safe distance …
per’aps then ye’d have some answers …
Corso: You can tell their age only by the powers they possess, by their strength.
I mentioned that every vampire has a weak point: they all have to sleep sooner or later, their sleep is more like a
deep trance and they are then unable to descend themselves. So, you have to follow
her to see where she rests ... You have to find something to protect yourself with ... If she doesn't respond to garlic and
crosses, you might try white roses and hawthorn. Get Constable Crane to
a windowless room and watch over him. *grins* Actually,
I do want to see her, but I'll have to get some equipment first from the castle. I
am in, Manouche, I doubt that the Commander wants any vampires here, either.
Manouche *smiles, greatly
relieved* Ahh, cheers, mate. I been
feelin’ rather alone facin’ a number o’ fights as of late … much obliged fer yer offer of assist on
this’un, ‘cause she scares me per’aps more’n any foe t’ date.
She were able t’ tell I was spyin’ on ‘er without seein’ me … she heard me heartbeat. How d’ ye begin t’ fight somethin’ like that? A force to reckon with, to be sure. I did follow her at one
point, I were closin’ in on her in th’ woods, where she ‘ad Ichy … she an’ I had words, I didn’t
come off well at all, I’m afraid … then she disappeared. I don’t
‘ave a clue as t’ how to follow ‘er an’ her unawares, savvy?
I’m in need of any an’ all suggestions. *pauses, glances out
window nervously* I reckon I should get back an’ tell Kat we need to keep
Ichy locked up. That was her thought, as well, but I don’t know if she
realizes we need a windowless room. *looks back at Corso* We could try t’ look for Loralee tonight, if that works fer ye.
Sooner th’ better, I reckon. I suggest ye fetch th’ equipment
y’ need, come to me house, an’ well go from there. I can point ‘er
out to ye if we see ‘er, though I doubt ye’d ‘ave trouble knowin’ her.
Jus’ look fer a stunningly beautiful new face in Deppville. *pauses* T-truly grateful for yer help, mate. *holds
hand out to shake*
Corso *horrified* You really don't know anything about vampires! You don't hunt
for them at night! By your description, she has to be one of the old ones. Maybe I can even find some documentation on her. Anyway,
I must be back, and you take Crane into safety. *rises up to leave, notices her
hand and shakes it* This is going to turn well in the end. Just be careful. Remember, they can't enter a building unless
they are invited, but they are very sly and cunning. Don't open the door to anyone.
*is about to go when he remembers something and turns around* So what's in it for me? Experts are expensive ... *grins*
Manouche *raises eyebrows,
surprised, then she smiles at him with some admiration* Yer a cagey one, ain’t
ye? Aye, well, I should’ve known ye wouldn’t be goin’ into
this fer th’ general good o’ the town or fer yer own health an’ expandin’ of yer experiences. Can’t say I blame ye, mate. It's specialized knowledge ye 'ave, an' ye
could be puttin' yerself in danger, as well. I reckon ye deserve somethin' fer yer trouble. *thinks for a minute,
brightens* Yer goin’ t’ be the death o’ me collection, but
I’m skint these days, an’ I can’t think of anythin’ else to pay ye with. So ‘ere goes. *looks around as if to make sure no one’s
listening, leans closer to him* I ‘ave a first edition o’ “La
Legende de la Mort en Basse Bretagne” – “Dealin’s With the Dead” – by Anatole LeBraz. It ain’t so much that it’s ancient … but it’s pristine condition,
an’ th’ book itself is hard t’ find in any condition, as yer no doubt well aware. Help us with this endeavor, mate, an’ it’s yours. Do
we ‘ave an accord?
Corso *eyes lit up with greed* Oh yes, that would be perfect! You seem
to have an awesome library for a pirate, full of rare books ... *grins once more*
Not that I care how you acquired it, as being myself in the trade, I know
there are many ways. Just remember the precautions. Don't open the door to anyone. Except me. I'll be there when I have everything ready. *hurries off*
Loralee *Appears, blocking Corso's path.
Steps close to him.* What's your hurry, love? *Brushes her fingers along his face* I see you would conspire
with her to destroy me. *Smiles, showing the tips of her fangs.* Perhaps I should teach you the error of your ways.
Corso *thrilled* Yes,
you really are one, and a powerful one. And beautiful. I could never bring myself to conspire against anyone like you. She's
nothing, I just wanted her to trust me. Allow me to give you a present ... *digs
in his bag and presents her with a white rose, she recoils from it and he flees, wiping his brow* That was near.
Manouche *finishes drink,
stands, leaves some money on the table. Starts to leave, then has an odd feeling ... decides to leave through back of
restaurant. Walks through kitchen, to back door, takes the side roads, feels somewhat safer as she enters the woods
near her house. Heads down to follow along the river, the misgiving fading from her heart the more distance she puts
between herself and Chez Roux. She finally sees the house, runs up, lets herself in, quickly locks the door behind her.
Goes through the house checking windows, making sure everything is secure. Feeling better, she goes into living room
to pour a drink, and it hits her.* By th' powers, where did Kat an' Ichy go? I hope she took 'im to place under
lock an' key on The Apparition. *walks over to large window facing river, drinks slowly, shivers slightly as she
watches the sunset*
“A Pirate’s
Life for Me”
Raven *stands on deck of
The Lancet as it pulls out of Deppville Harbor, watching the horizon recede. He
notes each building in his head – Chez Roux, the Chocolate Factory, Portsmith’s castle. At the sight
of the roof of Bournemouth House, he feels a twinge of pain inside, remembers what he read in Abberline’s journal; his
father’s handwriting seems branded on the inside of his brain, the words etched forever in his consciousness. Recalling them now, he feels further assurance that he’s doing the right thing. As the ship glides past the Sleepy Hollow area, he stretches, cranes his neck to see if he can make out
any of Arizona Dream Studios, or Manouche and Blake’s house; but the trees are too thick, he can barely see what he
believes is the roof of the studio building. He thinks of the modest little white
house where he felt so happy, secure and hopeful, remembers how kind Manouche and Blake were to him, and he feels tears spring
to his eyes; brushes them away impatiently. He takes one last look at the skyline
of the town as one of the crew calls his name – Roussel – and he turns to fully focus mind and body on the nautical
chore at hand.*
At Manouche and Blake’s
house:
Godley
*knocks on the door* Anyone home there? *knocks
repeatedly* Open up, Manouche, if you are there!
Manouche *opens the door
slightly, peeks out* Ah, Sergeant Godley. Blimey, where ye been, mate? C'mon in, be quick about it.
*grabs him by the arm, pulls him in, closes door quickly, locks it.*
Godley
*puzzled* What is it now? Shadows
prowling round the house? I have been away for a few days and everybody's acting
even more weird than before I left. Fact is, the Commander sent me off, but I
am back now, and not too soon as it seems. I am looking for Raven, he was supposed
to come over to Bournemouth House, but it seems now that it would be better for him to remain here. The Inspector's ... hm … not in a good shape
Manouche:
Long story. I can get ye a drink an' try an' explain ..... *stops, stares at him* R-Raven? He
ain’t ‘ere. I ain’t see ‘im. An’ since I hadn’t seen nor ‘eard from
th’ Inspector, I reckoned they were together. I was hopin’ they were finally gettin’ on. Lessee
… I saw ‘em th’ day I helped rescue th’ Inspector an’ Malachi from Commander Portsmith.
She’d locked ‘em up in ‘er castle, an’ … well, never mind how, but I managed to get ‘em
out. Malachi went home, an’ th’ Inspector an’ I came back ‘ere. I showed him th’
files from th’ hospital, I figured he should know … an’ about that time … *pauses, swallows*
…. M-Mr. Blake came in with Raven, they’d been out together. Th’ Inspector then said he wanted t’
see Malachi about somethin’, an’ then was goin’ to th’ hospital to discuss his files. I was
pleased because he asked Raven to come with him, an’ ye could tell Raven were pleased, too. *pauses again, for
a longer time, remembering* Ahh, no, there’s more. I saw th’ pair of ‘em th’ next day
… night … they came over an’ … they stayed th’ night, then they were off th’ next mornin’.
I were a bit groggy that mornin’, Sergeant, so I couldn’t tell ye where they went. Not sure they even said
… they jus’ left. They seemed so thick with each other them two times, when I didn’t see ‘em
again fer awhile, I figured all was well an’ that they’re ‘avin’ a grand time together. Besides,
usually if somethin's amiss with lil' mate, I get a feelin', savvy? An' I've 'ad no feelin's about him in awhile.
*glances around room uneasily* 'Course, admittedly, I been preoccupied as of late. *looks at Godley* Raven
could be with Kat. Per’aps that’s why she weren’t ‘ere when I came home today. What’s
wrong with th’ Inspector?
Godley
*shrugs* Looks like he's with Kat then. The Inspector... First he said that he told Raven to come here, then, at the
house, he claimed he saw Raven in the living-room, but there was no one there. As far as I understand,
they were getting well on together, he said he promised to fetch Raven later to Bournemouth House for the night.. Can't
say if he really planned that or not. I found him after a short search in one of his favourite places and dragged
him home. He was alone. *looks at Manouche* The rest of the story has to wait, I'll best go back to the Inspector.
Manouche: Oh, blimey, that don’t sound right … Sergeant, will y’ promise t’ keep me informed? I don’t like not knowin’ where Raven is.
Are y’ goin’ to check with Kat? I’d go meself, but …
*hesitates* … well, I ain’t sure ye’d believe me. But suffice
t’ say I ‘ave t’ stay ‘ere, at least fer now. Please
let me know when ye hear somethin’ of his whereabouts, all right?
At Bournemouth
House:
Godley *returns to Bournemouth
House, more concerned about Abberline than Raven, Manouche seems to be able to tune in on the boy, and she felt nothing special. He finds Abberline in the chair, shakes him* Come on, you'd better go to bed than
sleep in a chair.
Abberline *wakes up with a start* Raven?
Godley
*pulls him up* He wasn't at Manouche's so he must have gone to Kat.
Abberline
*resisting feebly* No, wait, he's not there.
Godley *grabs him and leads
him upstairs* Where else should he be? Manouche
would know if something was wrong with him. *dumps him at the bedside and helps
his jacket off*
Abberline: He is not there!
Godley: Okay, I will go to the Apparition. You will see I find him
sound and safe there. I'll be back soon.
Abberline *stares at the ceiling
for a long time after Godley has gone, feeling cold despite the blankets*
On The Lancet:
Raven *being kept very busy
on the ship, but so far has been able to handle the demands. Has put up with
some teasing about his size, but again, nothing he can’t handle. He starts
climbing up to the crow’s nest when he feels something … and he realizes it’s Manouche, trying to communicate
with him, trying to find him. He feels a pang of homesickness, missing her …
but then remembers all he read in his father’s journal. Regretfully, he
summons all his strength to block her attempts to reach him. He grips the ropes
he’s climbing on, his knuckles white; feels the sensation fading, tears fill his eyes.
He feels as if he’s betrayed the one person since True Dreamer who completely understands and accepts him. He speaks aloud, with a sob, glad he's far removed from the rest of the crew at the
moment* S-sorry, Manouche, that’s how it has to be for now. *wipes at his eyes, and continues climbing up the mast*
At Manouche and Blake's
house:
Manouche *sits on floor in
front of fire, tears streaming down her face* Me own trick, thrown back at me. Ohh, lil' mate ... *buries
her face in her hands and cries*
At Bournemouth
House:
Abberline *in a feverish
haze, still staring at the ceiling, suddenly sees a vision of a glittering sharp object, he frowns, shuts his eyes but the
image of the object keeps flashing in his mind until he recognizes it* The razor
… *he turns his head towards the bathroom door, makes a weak attempt at rising up but falls back. He's got
to get it before Godley returns.*
At Chez Roux:
Dean Corso
*still out of breath after the encounter, still seeing Loralee in his mind, he begins to ponder whether vampirism is a curse
or a blessing. Which side to choose? What
are Manouche's manuscripts to eternity with a beautiful vampiress?* I could convince her that Ichy's not worth
the trouble ... Manouche doesn't know a thing.
Pity that I mentioned the roses to her.
*Consults
the famous Gilmore Vampire Hunter's Manual, deciding to be prepared for all kinds of occasions. If Loralee seems to be a better option than Manouche, he can easily lead Manouche astray. He packs all the traditional tools, which he doubts are of much use but they will certainly look reassuring:
hawthorn stakes, hammer, knife, mirror, crucifixes, a holy water bottle, a small
sharp shovel and his manual. On his way to Manouche, he nips some of the Commander's
famous exquisite white roses, fastens one in the buttonhole on the lapel and stuffs the rest in his bag*
At the Wonkas’
factory:
Blake *evening, returning
to Deppville, stops at the factory on his way home. Steps up to door, rings bell*
Madame *answers door, looking
a little tired, but shines her purple eyes and gives a bright smile* Blake! My brother! How are you, love?
Blake *leans in, kisses her
cheek* Madame, it’s so good to see you. Look at you, you look great.
Time's gettin' close, isn't it? I’m fine … sorry about my appearance, I’ve been away … camping. *pauses, looks a little shy* I was wondering
if I could ask a favor. I’m on my way home, and I’d like to take
some flowers to Manouche. The florist’s closed … an’ I know
Manouche is crazy about your conservatory. Would you mind if I take her a small
bouquet? She’s … she’s been very patient with me, I want to
do something for her.
Madame: Oh absolutely!!
Come on in. Willy and I were just testing the new "True Love" Cotton Candy we made. Quite interesting, if I say
so myself. *walking with Blake to the conservatory, talking of the new candy* It's just a small piece of candy,
but when two people truly in love blow on it at the same time, it blooms into a full cotton candy web. Just amazing!
It already works! *walks up to the giant door of the conservatory, pushes it open, walks into a giant room with windows
instead of walls, flowers bloom all over the place* Willy's been keeping this place in excellent condition lately.
He planted some new blue roses over there. *points to the right* Go ahead, pick out anything
Blake *eyes wide, gazing
around the huge room* Oh my god, no wonder Manouche is so impressed … I’ve
never seen this before … it’s beautiful. *walks around slowly, taking
it all in* If I didn’t know her favorites, I’d say it would be hard
to know where to begin … but tulips are her favorites. So I’ll take
her a dozen tulips. *turns to see tulip section, stops short* M-Madame, how the hell many varieties of tulips are there?! Guess
I’ll just have to pick an’ choose. *selects a bunch of tulips of
varied types and colors* Willy’s sure got a green thumb, hasn't he? *hesitates, thinking about something. Turns
to Madame* Do you have white roses? I
think I want to add some of those to this mix. She’s never said she’s
particularly fond of ‘em, but … I just have this feeling. *grins,
looks a little puzzled* Crazy, isn’t it?
Madame: Absolutely. *walks over to the roses section to the left, down
to the white ones, picks one* Yes, Willy's sensitive spot is planting. He loves it. *hands Blake the flower*
Blake *holds it to his nose,
sniffs it appreciatively* Beautiful, I’ll take a few more of those. *Madame helps him bunch some white roses together with the tulips, into a gorgeous
bouquet. Madame then adds some green, a few fern leaves. Blake nods* You have a real knack for arrangements, my talented
sister. That’s perfect, she’ll love it. Oh, an’ Madame … how ‘bout that new cotton candy you were tellin’ me about? Do you suppose … I mean, if it’s out of development and ready for the
public … could I take some with me? *smiles shyly*
Madame
*thinks for a moment, then grins* Let's go bug Willy. *they walk up to the invention room, Madame pushes the door
open and sees Willy bent over a few concoctions* Willy Wonka!
Willy
*was carefully adding a potion to something, surprised at the sound of Madame, goes too fast, then concoction bubbles
over* GAH!!! *Madame laughs, he
wipes hands off with nearby towel* Yes, yes, ha ha ha. *Sees Blake* Ah my dear brother. How are you?
Madame:
Blake wants to have some of the new invention, Willy.
Willy
*smiles* Ahh I knew you couldn’t hold that secret. *Madame gives a cute smile. Willy smiles back, walks to a
table at his right, opens a box, takes out a piece of blue candy*
Madame
*walks next to him, turns to Blake* Now watch. *Willy and Madame nod to each other, they both blow on it carefully.
It slowly blooms into a huge amount of cotton candy in Willy's hand*
Willy:
And there it is! *beams*
Blake
*smiles* Willy, that’s brilliant! This may be the most fun thing you’ve come up with yet. Or
as you'd say, fantabulous! I’d love to take one home to Manouche, if I could. I … I want to make this
evening as special as I can.
Willy
*laughs* Fantabulous is perfect for this invention. I've spent months working on it. *thinks* I'd
be happy to give you some, as long as you can promise me you won’t do it publicly yet.
*Madame stares at cotton candy, licks lips, quickly grabs a huge piece of it and begins munching. Willy looks at Madame, arches brow, shakes head, then looks back at Blake*
Blake *laughs at Madame* I think the cravings are still with you, dear!
*to Willy* I promise, it’ll just be the two of us, in the privacy
of … *swallows* … of our home. *looks down, emotional* S-sorry … I’ve been away a few days, I’ve … been missing her a lot. *looks up, smiles at them both* Thanks for the flowers and
candy, they’ll go a long way in makin’ this a special evening. Don’t
know what we’d do without both of you half the time. *smiles* And now, I better be on my way, it’s gettin’ late. We’ll
have to all get together again soon, it’s been too long.
Madame
*scrunches nose at Blake, but continues to eat the cotton candy*
Willy
*takes three pieces of the candy out of the box, walks up to Blake, puts his good arm around his shoulder* I understand,
brother. I wouldn’t be able to stay away from my wife for that long. Congrats that you did. *hands him the candy* Give her what she deserves, Blake.
Blake *looks at him, eyebrows
raised, senses something passing between their minds, brings hand up to forehead* Damn
… that peyote … Willy, I would swear … *the feeling fades away,
he shrugs* Obliged, brother. *he
reaches out to shake hands, then thinks better of it, grabs Willy in a hug. Turns
to Madame, swipes a piece of the cotton candy with a finger, smudges it on her nose playfully, winks* You wear it well, darlin’. *looks at them both* I won’t keep you any longer, I’ll let myself out. I … I’m sure I can easily say Manouche sends her love.
*smiles gratefully, turns, finds his way back to main entrance, leaves the factory, loaded down with his gear and the
bunch of flowers; heads for home*
Willy:
*watches Blake leave, turns to Madame who’s glaring at the door, walks up to her, takes cotton candy off her nose, eats
it* He was right, ya know. *Madame smiles, rolls eyes* Come on. Let's go to bed. It's late, and you’re looking tired.
Madame
*shrugs, finishes eating the candy* A little bit. *Willy smirks, picks
her up* Willy! Come on now!
Willy:
Ah, you’re not as heavy as you look.
*Madame arches brow at him, then wraps her arms around his neck and kisses him.
He kisses her back, then walks her up to their bedroom for a good night's sleep*
At Manouche and Blake’s
house:
Blake *approaches the house
somewhat slowly, carrying bags and the large bouquet of flowers from Willy and Madame’s conservatory. Tries the door, is a little surprised that it’s locked; fits key in, lets himself in. Sees a fire blazing in the fireplace, hears sounds in the kitchen.
Puts his bags down, holds flowers behind his back, walks to kitchen. Sees
Manouche standing at the counter with her back to the kitchen doorway, preparing a meal.
Walks up softly behind her, lightly touches her shoulder* Honey …
Manouche: GAAHH!!!! *starts violently, spins around, grabs Blake, punches
him, knocks him to the floor, flowers fly to the side. Grabs knife, jumps on
top of him, blade raised high. Stops, looks at him, blinks, does a double-take* M-M-Mr. Blake?! Ohhh, my LOVE …
! *flings knife away, throws arms around him, showering him with kisses*
Blake *a little dazed, but
decidedly liking the kisses; holds her tight* G-guess we should look into one
of those security systems for the house … *slowly sits up*
Manouche *can’t stop
kissing him, tears in her eyes* Oh, love, I’m so sorry, are y’ sound? *stops, pulls back, looks at him* Are
… are ye home?
Blake *nods* It was good … well, eventually it was good. Gili showed
up, and helped me. *grins as she continues to kiss him* I’ll tell you all about it later. *smile fades, he looks
at her* But … I couldn’t stop thinking about you, I was so worried
about you. It’s horrible, what I did, leaving you here alone, with all
the danger …
Manouche *stops his words
by kissing him deeply* If it’s what y’ needed an’ if it helped
ye, then no worries, m’ love. I were wrong, too, leavin’ th’
house at all hours without so much as a by-yer-leave. I won’t be doin’
that anymore, I swear t’ ye.
Blake: It’s all right, honey … god, I missed you … *holds her tight, then leans over,
grabs the slightly battered bouquet, hands it to her* I stopped off at Willy
an’ Madame’s … she helped me put these together for you.
Manouche *exclaims with delight,
holds flowers up to her face, breathes in the scent* Ch-cheers, love …
y’ always remember tulips are me favorite … *stops, recalls what Corso said about white roses* Ahh, th’ roses are an unusual choice, ain’t they? I
mean … beautiful, but … what put ‘em in yer head?
Blake *shrugs* It is strange, isn’t it? I don’t know …
I just had a feeling they’d be just right.
Manouche *pushes thought
to the back of her mind, smiles warmly* They’re beautiful, an’ I
thank ye … *puts arms around him, kisses him again*
Blake: I can’t help but wonder about one thing …
Manouche: What’s that, love?
Blake: Why are we still on the floor? *she laughs, they stand up,
she finds a vase, fills it with water and arranges the flowers in it. He looks
at the food she’s preparing, suddenly realizes he’s starving* You
makin’ enough for two, by any chance?
Manouche *nods* I’ve gotten so used t’ cookin’ that way … I reckon it’d take me a long time
to remember how t’ cook fer jus’ one. *gazes lovingly at him*
Blake *takes her in his arms
again, kisses her* Oh, by the way … *reaches in pocket, pulls out one of
the pieces of candy* This is a new Wonka product, we get to be the first outside
the factory to try it, if you’re game. *grins*
Manouche *smiles* Ah, brother Willy’s been at it again, ay? Or is this
somethin’ they both come up with together? Blimey, I been missin’
them. Won’t it be grand, when we get t’ stay with ‘em an’
be there when them twins finally come into th’ world? *takes candy from
him, peers at it* So what’s it do, then?
Blake: It’s called “True Love” cotton candy. Apparently,
when two people who are truly in love blow on it at the same time, it blooms into a big piece of cotton candy. *looks at her, suddenly sober* ‘Course, it’s just
a candy, right? I mean, if it doesn’t work … that doesn’t mean
anything …
Manouche *smiles* Let’s try it. *she holds it out, they look at each other,
she counts* On three … one, two, three … *They blow on the candy together. The candy shakes in her
hand, and with a soft BOOM swiftly expands, knocking them to the floor. They
sit up, dazed – an enormous wad of cotton candy between them, some of which has exploded onto their faces and clothes*
Manouche *eyes wide, trying
to wipe candy off her face, only managing to get more in her hair* Blimey …
well … if there’s any truth t’ this stuff, I reckon we won’t be lookin’ into couples’
therapy anytime soon. *they look at each other, slowly smile, then start to laugh*
Blake *pulls her close, licks
a large amount of cotton candy off the tip of her nose, murmurs* Fantabulous
...
Later, outside the
house:
Godley *meets Corso at the
entrance to Manouche's house* What are you up to?
*looks at him suspiciously*
Corso *grins* It's business, Godley. *raps at the door* Open up, Manouche, it's me!
Godley: I can’t imagine her doing any business with you.
Corso *flashes a smile* You'd be surprised, then.
Manouche *calls through door* A LITTLE BUSY, HERE, CORSO!
Blake: Yeah, can you gentlemen come back another time? *he and Manouche
laugh giddily*
Godley *bangs at the door
with his fist* Are you folks gone crazy completely! Raven is missing, Manouche! Open up or I'll bust the door!
Corso *grinning* Don't do that, mate. I can return later. *turns to go*
Godley: Bloody Hell!
Loralee
*Watches the exchange between Godley and Corso. Furious at not having caught
him soon enough.*
Godley: Manouche, I am going to break this door now!
Corso *turning back to
him* I would strongly advice you against doing that. Open doors and windows are a much more serious risk than you understand.
Especially now. *adjusts his white rose nervously*
*Door is unlocked, opens,
Manouche and Blake stand in doorway, arms around each other, smidges of cotton candy on their faces, their hair and clothes
disheveled. Though sobered by Godley’s words, they can’t help but
glow*
Manouche: Apologies, Sergeant, but ye ‘ave t’ understand … well, never mind, it’s a bit of
a story. Th’ Inspector’ll appreciate it. *waves arm* Come in, mate.
Blake: Godley, are you sure Raven’s missing? You know how he
is, going from one place to another. *looks at Manouche* You’d know if something was wrong with him, wouldn’t you, honey?
Manouche: Thing is, I believe there is somethin’ wrong with ‘im.
But he’s learned t’ shut me out, th’ same way I learned t’ do with him. I were doin’ it t’ keep him from worryin’ too much about things I reckoned could wait
fer him t’ know about. Now, I feel he’s run off to do somethin’,
an’ he don’t want me to know. *looks at Godley sternly* Don’t think fer a second I don’t care, Sergeant. I
spent th’ better part o’ this evenin’ after ye left, tryin’ t’ get through to him, an’
sheddin’ many a tear over it. An’ even at me immense joy t’
have me Mr. Blake back home … *pauses, gazes lovingly at Blake* … I ain’t stopped thinkin’ about it
fer more’n two seconds all night. Fact o’ the matter is … I’m
at a loss as t’ what to do.
Corso *ushers them all in
and locks the door* For gods sake, are you all really completely crazy? Don't you remember anything I warned you about? *looks
at the cotton candy with a smirk* I guess you don't. Well, if you want to keep yours sweetheart … *grins at Blake* …
take better care next time.
Godley *with a glance at Corso, to Manouche* Is
he mad? What is he doing here?
Corso: I
came for my book.
Godley: Never mind. I
don't know what to do either with Raven. Maybe I should go once more to the Apparition.
It seemed to be quiet there.
Manouche *eyes Corso carefully*
I may ‘ave stars in me eyes at th’ moment, Corso … but I ain’t completely daft. Me time with
Alifi weren’t wasted, ye can take that to th’ bank. I’m more than happy to pass the book along to
ye, an’ stick to me part of our bargain … question is, can I trust ye to stick to yer end of it? I ‘ave
a suspicion that ye been contemplatin’ a double-cross, as it were. I won’t deny I’m desp’rate,
an’ I ‘aven’t a clue as t’ how to combat a vampire. But I’d rather try on me own an’
fail than cast me lot with one I can’t count on. Impart a bit more o’ yer knowledge, an’ ye’ll
get yer book. I’ve proven I’m good fer it. But try an’ cross me, an’ ye may regret it.
Fer example, I have me ways o’ informin’ th’ Commander of just what went on that day ye set th’ Inspector
an’ Malachi free. Think it over, mate.
Loralee *Calls out to Corso
from a safe distance* Corso, hear me now. I would speak to you. You have no need of your tricks. I have no power over you and
will not harm you. I can offer you power that you have only dreamed of.
Corso *stops and seems to
listen to something* I'll come for my book later.
*slips out, draws nearer to Loralee, both fascinated and wary* I can hear
you ... It is not power I seek, but I am ready to strike a deal ... What do you
want from me? I can gain admittance for you into all houses in Deppville.
Loralee:
Join with me. What ever you seek I will give to you. Even eternity can be yours for the asking.
Corso *stepping still closer*
Eternity is a long time to spend alone.
What is it that you want from me?
Loralee: You need not spend it alone. You could have any female you would desire.
I give you my word. You would not be disappointed. All you need do is give false information to the others. Make
them feel safe and secure with useless defenses. Leaving them helpless against
me.
Corso: Any female, you say? *thinks for a while and grins to himself*
The others don't know anything, I can feed them what I want. Holy water. Crucifixes. Crosses.
Garlic. Shall we show them? Pretend that you really fear these trinkets? They
will believe that you are weak, and they will believe that I am on their side? *picks
up a small cross* You don't really fear this, do you? *looks towards the house* But they don't have to know it.
Loralee *Smiles* I knew you were
a man of intelligence. These things are mere amusements to me. *Steps closer* But perhaps we should seal our agreement.
Say an exchange of blood to make it binding.
Corso *backs off a step*
And you will trick me into your servant by that. They
will notice the difference in me and won't believe me any more.
Loralee *Smiles seductively* Forgive
me, love. It's my nature. You shall
have all that I have promised, I swear. I'll not touch you without your leave
to do so.
Corso *stops and stares at
her* Not now ... they will see us ... Later,
I will be glad to offer my blood to you. In exchange of yours, the vampire blood
that makes me live forever …
Loralee: I will wait most eagerly my love.
Corso: Till the time is right. I have to return to them now or they
will become suspicious of me. I will not let you down. *backs slowly off towards the house* I will help you any way
I can and you will reward me. *backs all the way to the door, raps it* Manouche, let me in, quick!
Manouche *unlocks door, opens
it, lets him in, closes and locks door again* Bloody ‘ell, Corso, where’d
ye go? *pauses* Apologies, luv,
if I seemed t’ get me back up earlier. There were somethin’ about
yer manner that concerned me, an’ I’m sorry if I were wrong. Gettin’
so I don’t know who I can trust these days. Would y’ like a drink,
then?
At the Cemetery:
Kat *With lit
torch in hand enters cemetery with a reluctant Ichy* Here we are luv. Vampires can't enter Holy ground. *Looks
uncertain* Well least that be what I've 'eard.
*Glances back at Ichy* I know, it be not my favorite place either. But we gotta do somethin' and I know naught else.
*Jamming the end of the torch into the ground, she removes a pair of handcuffs from her pocket* Sorry
luv, it be necessary. The key be on my ship. *Notices that Ichy is looking
past her, she turns and stares*
Loralee:
You shouldn't believe everything you hear, sweet.
Kat *Glances
at the torch. Starts to make a dive for it but suddenly dozens of bats are flying
in her face. She wards them off as best she can and, suddenly as they appeared, they are gone; as is the torch. She looks at Loralee, who smiles.*
Kat *Fearfully*
What are ye goin' te do?
Loralee:
It's really quite simple. I'm going
to make you my eyes and ears. *Looks at Ichy* Hold
her.* Ichy grabs her from behind.*
Kat: Ichy, stop it. Let go.
Loralee
*Laughs* You don't look like such a fierce pirate to me. *Moves in closer* Now let’s see, the neck is too obvious.
Reaches out, takes her by the arm, holds it in an iron grip. Sees the tattoo and hesitates. Touches it.* What's this?? How very interesting. Such power. But you are unable to use it. Strange,
something to consider when there's more time. *She puts her mouth to Kat's arm.
Kat struggles and screams as she feels the pain and then slides to the ground
unconscious. When she opens her eyes, she sits up, sees Ichy in Loralee's arms.
Unable to stand, she yells.* Get
away from him.
Loralee
*Turns to her* Silence! I give the
orders now. *Looks at Kat's arm* Cover
that, and let no one see. Take Ichabod and return to Manouche, tell her you spent
an uneventful night in the cemetery. Leave the rest to me. *Loralee vanishes*
Kat *Shivers*
What are we gonna do?
Ichy *Sadly*
Exactly as she says.
At Manouche and Blake’s
house:
Corso: You can always trust
me, Manouche, as long as you pay me well. *sits in a chair* So, you made the mistake again. *sighs* You let me in immediately after I knocked on the door. How
can you know that I did not receive the bite? Or even know that it really is
me? Some vampires can shift shapes and possess mortal bodies. You can trust me. Don't trust anybody else. And now, bring on the drink, and let me take a look at the book before I proceed.
Manouche: Aye, an'
I s'pose when next we meet an' ye say 'trust me,' ye'll 'ave gotten th' bite, as it were. Fer all I know, yer the enemy
right 'ere an' now. Bloody 'ell. *to Blake* Get ‘im a
drink, love. *She turns, goes to another part of the house, digs around, finds
the book, brings it back, shoves it at Corso, scowling* ‘Ere, take th’
bloody book. Take th’ whole house, fer th’ good it’ll do me,
I’m so bleedin’ frustrated. Apparently, I don’t stand a chance
in me cluelessness. Per’aps I’ll jus’ take a stroll in th’
cemetery at midnight in a low-neck sweater an’ get it over with. *looks
at Blake* What say ye, love? Shall
we give it up, both become vampires? Could be worse, ay? We could live forever, never get sick, never grow old. Sounds
a sight attractive, if I can do it with you. *smiles wryly*
Blake *brings Corso a whiskey,
turns to her with small smile* Only one problem I can see, honey … you’re
a vegetarian. Diet of blood wouldn’t set very well with you …
Manouche: Blast! *to Corso, sarcastically* Anythin’ in yer vampire lore about substitutin’ tomato juice, mate? *pauses, looks at
him* Jus' what were ye doin' out there, anyway? Thought I heard another voice ... who were ye talkin' to?
Corso *grinning* That is why you need me. The fact is, that if every victim
of vampires would become a vampire, we all would have become undead by now. No,
there is a good reason to protect yourself. They choose to make vampires only
from those whom they consider worthy. Just the select few. So, by all means, take a stroll in the cemetery and become a slave to the vampires if that's what you desire.
Otherwise, your only chance is to rely on me. *drinks,
smiles* You did hear a second voice, yes. It
was her ... *raises a hand to silence Manouche* Wait, I'll explain. Now, we could march to war directly and perish all. Or, we
could use my way and be a little more subtle. I am trying to gain her trust and
find out her resting place.
*Kat, with Ichy at her side,
stands inside door listening*
Godley: That would be the
way of the weasel. I don't understand this mumbo-jumbo at all. Vampires don't exist. And, all the while, we still don't know
where Raven is. I'd better go to have a look at the Inspector, if vampires are
all you care about. I'm a little uneasy for leaving him alone. *rises from the seat*
Manouche *to Godley*
Sergeant, ye may not believe. But ye didn't see Ichy, an' the way he were actin' with this woman. He 'ad the marks
on his neck, an' she had complete control over 'im. I hope Kat found a place fer 'im, somewhere to keep him under lock
an' key. *to Corso* Right, mate, get on with it. Give us what ye got, that ye feel's worth that book I just
handed to ye. 'Cause unfortunately, that's about all I 'ave left t' pay ye with. So if I must lose ye to th' next
highest bidder, so be it. *sighs* Apologies ... it's all overwhelmin', an' me resources are runnin' low.
Bad enough that Raven has disappeared an' is blockin' me thoughts, blimey, I'm worried sick about 'im. Then all
this. I reckon I'm runnin' out of fight, savvy? *turns to go get herself a drink, is surprised to see that
Blake beat her to it, holds out glass to her; smiles wanly at him, takes glass. He rubs her shoulders, gazes at her
sympathetically*
Corso *to Godley* Craving after a vampire bite too, Godley? Just step out in
the dark then. But you wouldn't be very useful to your precious Inspector
after that. *takes the book, forgets both Godley and Manouche, begins to read
here and there* Most rewarding ... Amazing
... Good condition. *Rubs the paper* Just
listen to the voice of good old-fashioned paper, pure rag paper. *Looks up* For tonight, we'll do nothing. Just stay
inside and open to no one. *grins* It
seems to me that you have two guests, Manouche. What's for supper?
Godley
*groans* I have to get back to Bournemouth House. I left him alone.
Manouche *to Godley* Corso has a point, Sergeant. I don’t
like th’ idea o’ th’ Inspector on his onesies right now anymore than you do … but y’ must understand
th’ seriousness of this.
Blake: I could go check on the Inspector. *the others look at him,
surprised*
Manouche: Th’ hell ye will, love!
Blake: Corso, years ago I talked to some men who were well-versed in vampire lore.
They told me that certain substances in the bloodstream can be sensed by vampires, an’ some are deterrents. I heard tell one powerful deterrent is mescaline.
I just spent several days doin’ peyote, an’ I understand the mescaline from it stays in the bloodstream
for days afterward. So I figure, I might be safe.
*looks at Corso questioningly*
Manouche: An' what if that don't work in this particular case? Bloody 'ell, love, y'
just come home t' me, don't take such a chance. *smiles at him* Though yer brave an' selfless t' consider it.
*to Corso* Ye ‘ave a notion or two about what’ll keep ye safe in
‘er presence. Per’aps you could go see about th’ Inspector. *pauses, glances at Godley,
thinks of something that may make him reconsider going out* Ahhh ... dinner is pasta with pesto sauce, fresh grated
parmesan cheese, an' homemade garlic bread. An' a red wine I received from th' Commander one night when she were
revelin' in a certain Finnish song contest victory o' some sort.
Corso *to Blake* Yes, you have a point there. That is what I have heard, too. *grins*
Didn't know that you are a druggie too. The problem is that we don't know if
you still have enough of it in your bloodstream. *to Manouche* Me? I don't understand why he would need looking after, especially
when he's inside behind locked doors. He's not a kid. And I doubt vampires would find his blood very tasty ... No,
I am not going anywhere.
Godley *tempted by the supper and the wine* So
that's the real Chateau Blanchefort you got? The one that the Commander imports
from France? *pretends to think for a while*
All right. I'll consider staying.
Corso: Be careful, Manouche. She's
trying to trace her family to certain French noble houses now. I have helped
her with some documents. *grins*
At Bournemouth House:
Abberline *gathers his strength
and manages to get up, he heads for the bathroom taking support from the wall, looks for a while at the sharp old-fashioned
razor, then picks it up and returns to bed. His hands are shaking so badly that
he's unable to open the folded knife. Finally he folds it up, but he manages
only to make a slight cut on his wrist; he watches the blood beginning to trickle*
At Manouche and Blake’s house:
Manouche *in kitchen, preparing to bring out another round of garlic
bread for the supper she’s prepared; everyone else is seated at the table, eating and talking. She’s just removed the bread from the oven when she feels a strange sensation … she quickly
brings the bread over to the countertop and manages to set it down before the vision hits her full-force, and she drops to
the floor with a wave of dizziness.* Ooohhh, blast it … *she sees Raven, he’s letting her in … sees that he’s on an unknown ship, out to sea,
hears his voice:*
Manouche, forgive
me … I’m sound, I promise … please, help Father …
*a flash of
light fills her mind’s eye, so brilliant and painful she rolls on the floor – then she sees a house interior she
doesn’t know, but she knows that it’s Bournemouth House. Sees Abberline,
lying on a bed, shaking … wrist bleeding … she jumps at a deafening slam, like a huge, metallic door slamming
shut; everything goes black. Then the vision clears, and she finds herself lying
on the kitchen floor*
Manouche: Oh, blimey … I'm on it, lil' mate, steady on ... *she pulls herself to
her feet, staggers toward dining room, sweating, trying to steady her voice* S-somebody
‘as to go t’ Bournemouth House NOW. I ‘eard from Raven …
th’ Inspector’s cut his wrist, HURRY! I don’t care if
we all go en masse wearin’ garlic an’ crosses, but we ‘ave t’ save him!!
Corso *frowning*
It is already too dark. There is
no need for all of us to go out at the same time. I suggest Blake and Godley
go. *opens his bag* Take the roses
with you. The mistress herself is strong, but if you encounter her minions, they
probably are afraid of crosses and garlic. *picks a couple of crosses and hands
them over*
Godley *already at the door* Is it really necessary? Hurry!
Manouche *takes
white rose, moves over to Blake, places the rose in his lapel* Hurry back, my
love, please be careful. *wraps her arms around him, kisses him passionately. They gaze at each other for a moment, then he grins, reaches up to her hair, removes
a last lingering speck of cotton candy. Reluctantly releases her, turns to others.*
Blake: Let’s go.
At Bournemouth
House:
Godley and Blake *arrive
at the house, exchange a look, fear mounting as they notice how dark and quiet the house looks*
Blake *pounds on door* Inspector! Inspector, it’s me,
Blake … an’ Sergeant Godley, let us in, now! *listens, hears no response,
leans against door, shaking his head* We’re gonna have to break in. *looks at Godley* What do you think,
break down the door, bust out a window? …
Godley:
He's not going to open. *fumbles
in his pocket for keys* I should have the keys to the house ...
Abberline
*hears the banging on the door, gets up and bangs the bedroom door shut, locks it, returns to the bed, takes the razor and
tries to cut deeper into his wrist*
Godley:
It's too bloody dark to see anything. *trying
a key* Not this one. *takes the
next key, inserts it and the door is open, looks around in the living room* He's upstairs
... *They run up the stairs and encounter the locked bedroom door.*
Blake *hand on Godley’s
arm* Stand back … *swings
foot back, kicks door hard at the doorjamb, splintering the door, busting it open. Turns,
sees Godley staring at him in amazement; shrugs* Little trick I learned awhile
back, long story … I’ll pay for the door. *They run into room, see
Abberline lying on bed, wrist bleeding* Careful, Sergeant, get that razor away from him --
Godley: Blake, there's
got to be some bandage or something in the bathroom. *takes Abberline by his
wrist and forces his fingers open, Abberline gives up and Godley takes the razor, angry* What
the hell did you do that for?
Blake *returns with bandages
from bathroom, looks at Abberline’s wrist* I – I think it’s
gonna be okay, it’s not too bad. It's cut just a little bit across, not
along an artery. I, ah … well, I’ve seen this sorta thing before. *quickly wraps up wound, looks at Abberline steadily*
Lie back, take it easy, Inspector … you look like you could use a drink, I’ll go find you one. *smiles slightly, glances at Godley; leaves bedroom, goes downstairs to get drinks*
Godley *sits down at the
bedside* So.
Abberline: I'm cold.
Godley *takes a blanket
and covers him* Better now? Seems
to me that you've got a fever. And a nervous breakdown.
Abberline *Not
looking at him* I am fine.
Godley: Indeed,
Inspector, I can see that you are fine.
Abberline *reluctantly* Raven
knows.
Godley: Of course he knows, you took him to that awful tavern.
Everybody knows about you and chasing the dragon. But don't worry, we will find him tomorrow. He's probably gone
to his mother.
Abberline: No, it's not that. Raven knows that there is no hope for him.
Godley *with knitted brows* I don't understand what you are talking about.
Abberline: Nothing.
Forget it. Godley, you don't have
to stay here. I am all right.
Godley: I
somehow knew you were going to say that.
Blake *returns with bottle
of whiskey and three glasses, sets everything down on top of dresser, pours drinks*
I figured we could all use one. *brings them over, hands one to Godley,
one to Abberline. Takes more careful look at Abberline* Feel a little better, Inspector? *pauses, takes drink* I guess it’s none of my business … I don’t know what would make
you think you have to do somethin’ like that, but … whatever it is, there must be other answers. *scratches head, grins* I’ll do my best to keep Manouche
from givin’ you an earful, but I can’t guarantee anything.
Abberline *takes the drink,
empties the glass immediately* Pour me another, Blake. Manouche doesn't have to know ... Or does she already? That's
why you are here? You don't understand ... I
can't tell. *looks at Blake and Godley* You
can both go home now.
Blake *pours him another
drink, shakes head* Inspector, do you really think we’re just gonna walk
away from here after stoppin’ you from suicide and pouring you a coupla drinks?
If you hadn’t been through what you went through recently, I would insist you go to the hospital. *drinks* Yes, Manouche knows.
She … she told us. We wouldn’t have known if she hadn’t
gotten word from Raven. He saw it, begged her to do somethin’ about it. We came here at no small risk … now you don’t have to tell us anything
right now … an’ I can’t speak for Godley, although I reckon he’s in agreement with me when I say I’m
not leaving you here alone. *pours another round for them all*
Abberline: I'd rather
be alone. *takes the glass* And as all I managed to do was a miserable
scratch, there's nothing for you to worry about. *drinks the whisky*
Godley: I am not going
anywhere. I don't feel like running around in the middle of the night anyway.
But why such a desperate action? Does
it concern Raven?
Abberline: I can't
tell. *to Blake* Give me another
whiskey.
Godley: You'd better instead try to get some sleep.
Abberline: That's what I am trying to do
Blake *raises eyebrows, looks
at Godley, then pours another drink for Abberline* Sometimes a man needs to just
drink in the company of his mates an’ not talk so much. So we’ll
compromise … *looks at Abberline* You can have all the drinks you want,
we’ll stay here ‘till you fall asleep, an’ you don’t have to say a word if you don’t want to. *smiles slightly* Savvy?
Abberline *takes the drink*
Thanks. I don't seem to have a choice
... I don't think that I can sleep tonight. *lies
back and stares at the ceiling for a few minutes, then he's asleep*
Godley: Well,
if we're going to stay we might as well make ourselves more comfortable. I'll
take the spare bedroom and there's a couch in the study beside. He's not going
anywhere and since you fixed the bedroom door, he can't lock us out. *on his
way out of Abberline's bedroom* I have to say that I am not entirely comfortable
leaving Manouche with Corso, but I guess we can't do anything about that tonight.
Blake: Go ahead, Sergeant, I’m gonna have one more drink an’ a smoke.
*watches him leave, pours one last shot, gulps it down. Sits back, lights
cigarette, watches Abberline sleep for a minute. His mind starts to wander, he
finds himself missing Manouche dreadfully; sighs, trying not to be too concerned about her being alone with Corso. Thinks to himself:* Rubbish, she can deal with him. *grins a little at the thought of how easily she would thrash Corso if he became bothersome; rubs his jaw
where she punched him when he surprised her in the kitchen earlier, when he arrived home.
Gazes around room absently, noting the fine new furnishings and decorating Godley took care of. Something on the floor catches his eye. He stands, walks over
to chair where Abberline’s jacket is draped, sees small notebook on floor, as if it had fallen from a pocket. Picks it up, thinks for a moment, wrestling with his conscience; normally he would never invade Abberline’s
privacy, but his concern over the suicide attempt – no matter how seemingly halfhearted – overrules. Comes back to chair by bed, takes another look to make sure Abberline’s asleep, opens notebook, starts
to read. Eyes grow wide as he reads* Oh,
my god … *reads quickly, rapidly flipping through pages. Abberline
stirs a little; he closes the notebook and hides it, but he’s read enough to get the gist. Looks at Abberline sympathetically* Oh, Inspector, no wonder. But you’re wrong, you must be wrong …
*opens notebook again, reads, shakes head; closes book, considers keeping it to show Godley and Manouche, but thinks
better of it. He can always relay to them what he read. Stands, walks over to chair, slips it into a pocket in the jacket draped over chair. Returns to sit next to bedside a little longer. Lights another
cigarette; Abberline seems to be in a deep sleep. He watches him for awhile,
concerned*
Abberline
*wakes up after seeing a nightmare concerning Raven. It's still night, and both
Blake and Godley are gone from the room. He feels hot and the air seems to be
stifling; he gets up, swaying, walks slowly down the stairs and out in the cool night air, leans against the wall
and lights a smoke. He closes his eyes and the vision of Raven fades. Instead,
he sees for some reason white roses and then Manouche's house and someone lurking outside, it seems to be a woman, but the
vision is dark and blurred ... *
On The Lancet
Raven *late at night, on
deck, seeing very few others up and about. Trying to hide his concerns; keeps
thinking of his father. He’s frightened for him, though he feels certain
that he's safe, for the time being. He knows Manouche received his call for help,
and he since had sensed a vision of Blake and Godley at Abberline’s house. He
rounds a corner and comes in on a conversation between two crew members*
So where is ‘e now?
He’s gone after ‘er,
that’s where. Don’t know where that would be, jus’ glad it
ain’t where we’re ‘eaded, savvy? I’ve crossed blades
with ‘im before, an’ I ain’t so keen on repeatin’ the experience anytime soon.
But how’s he know Loralee
were tellin’ th’ truth? I’ve heard stories about Manouche. She headed up ‘er share o’ pillagin’ an’ plunderin’,
that much is true. But she were never one t’ instigate a coup such as what
Carver’s on about. I mean, Tortuga?? It don’t wash, mate.
I won’t argue that
it don’t make sense … I’ve raised a pint or two with Manouche meself, an’ she were always a decent
sort. This grandiose scale ain't her style, she were always one fer keepin' th' low profile. But answer me this
… why would Loralee be tellin’ tales, knowin’ how Carver would make her regret it once he found out she
weren’t straight with him, ay?
Ye ‘ave a point, t’
be sure. So what’s he got planned?
Well, y’ know Carver
…
Aye. *pause* Y’don’t s’pose Manouche’d
win out, do ye?
Blimey, mate, yer a bit old
fer fairy tales, ain’t ye? No, I’m afraid we won’t be rid o’
Carver that easy …
*They stop talking as they
notice Raven. He nods at them, quickly walks past*
Who were that, then?
That’s th’ new
bloke, Roussel. He’s surprisin’ fer his age …
Roussel … Roussel?? Y’ sure about that name, mate?
Aye, that’s as he give
it, what of it?
Unusual, is all … y’
don’t hear it every day. An’ it’s Manouche’s last name.
Y’ don’t say? Do y’ s’pose …
Well, I heard tell once of
a time when Manouche were bein’ held fer questionin’, in a manner of speakin’ … she managed t’
convince her adversary that she an’ her bloodline were no threat ‘cause her relations was all eunuchs. Th’ bloke said how could there ‘ave been any Roussel ancestry at all if that were th’
case? An’ she launched into a long tirade ‘avin’ to do with
watermelon seeds an’ th’ like … next thing y’knew, she were bein’ set free. *laughs* Come t’ think of it, per’aps she could
be behind a plot to take o’er Tortuga! *they both laugh*
Raven *after passing them,
ducked into hiding to continue listening. Crouches down, tries to concentrate, contact Manouche … instead
sees vision of his father, sweating and unsteady on his feet, outside his house, smoking … Raven then smells the heavy
scent of roses, sees the exterior of Manouche’s house, two figures standing outside.
Before he can make out who they are, the images blur, melt away, and are replaced by a scene on board another ship,
a brig … inside the cell, somewhat the worse for wear, is Dimitri, the man he recalls seeing with his mother. He hears voices, doesn’t see who they belong to; but after everything he's just learned, he
instinctively knows that one of them is Carver:*
That cursed woman!
Then it ain’t Manouche
we’re after, Captain?
Oh aye, it’s Manouche
we’re after. But we’re also after me lovely Loralee. She’s in need o’ some instruction on behavior, as it were …
An’ what about th’
bloke in th’ cell?
Give Kidd a bit more time. I ‘ave faith in ‘er agreein’ to me terms. She’ll come t’ realize that it’s far easier t’ replace a boatswain than a lover. *laughs scornfully*
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