At the Hospital:

*Abberline drifts into a restless sleep.  All around him there are children, the children of the street, looking at him with their big eyes and solemn faces, undernourished, clad in rags ...  He tries to ignore them, but one by one they start to reach to him with pleading eyes ...  you can't leave us ...  help us ...  He hears heart-rendering sobbing and sees a little girl, hiding from someone in a dense jungle, she seems vaguely familiar, but he's not sure who she is; he hears a distant cry, and the girl whispers a name, 'Dani' ...  *

*Then he hears Manouche: ‘M-me brother ... but ... he’s dead'  And a second voice, that belongs to the Leader of the Shadows:  'We learned in Fiji how to resurrect his spirit for our needs.  It’s exceedingly powerful.  Combined with your blood, it’ll  ...If you let us combine your blood with your brother’s spirit, thereby allowing us to possess the box once again, here’s what you’ll be doing:  Kat and Raven will be safe forever, as will Abberline.  Marchand will be vanquished, or so weak he’ll no longer be a concern.  Portsmith will recover and go back to being her usual pompous self.  All of Deppville will be left alone, because we Guardians have no need for the resources that your town and its inhabitants would offer someone like Marchand.  We will take the box back to where it belongs, we will resume guarding it … and that’s all we intend to do with it.  Deppville will never see us or the box again.  And here’s something else, an added bonus -- you will be reunited with your brother.  It’ll be in the spirit world, but you’ll be together forever … '  *
 
*The voice of the Leader fades and he sees Victoria with the blonde boy, she has the odd pendant, and then she changes to Manouche, who has a newborn baby girl in her arms.  She looks at him with reproach, and he turns away in shame and sees again the children of the street, hopefully reaching their hands towards him.  And then he hears Raven's voice.*  Father?  *Raven, looking frightened, eyes filling slowly with tears, in a park that looks vaguely familiar, walking beside a man whose features he can't see; suddenly the man turns to the boy, grabs him hard by the arm and starts to talk in a familiar voice that makes him starts violently in his dream*  If you can't do better than this, I suggest you quit trying altogether.  You are only embarrassing and shaming me.  Your sisters could have done better.  Why on earth was I punished with a son like you!  Stop whining!  *And the man slaps the boy across his face, and he understands that it is not Raven at all; it is himself, in the park of their house together with his father*

*The park fades away.  A total darkness ... some flashing symbols he can't discern, but he knows he's seen them somewhere ... And then total darkness ... the box, he's trapped in the soul box ... *

*He wakes up with a horrible feeling of suffocating, feels a sharp pain of the handcuff tearing into his wrist, and someone pushing him back as he's struggling to get up.*

Sebastian:  Calm down, lie still!  You had just a nightmare.

Abberline *slowly relaxing, realizing that he's in the hospital, looks at Sebastian*  Please, I have to get out immediately.  She's made a deal with them ... Can't let her sacrifice herself ... There must be another way...

Sebastian:  No, you can't go anywhere.  I am sorry that I can't give you a tranquilizer now.  It was just a dream, and it's gone.

Abberline *gives up struggling*  I am feeling ill.

Sebastian:  It will pass.  Just try to relax.

At The Apparition:

Abberline:  On what charges?  I can't arrest Kat without any reason.

Portsmith *looks at him*  What charges?  No reason?  Violence.  Resisting authorities.  Piracy.  Murder.  Kidnapping.  You name it.  *suspiciously*  Seems like you don't want to arrest her.  And, don't forget, we can arrest anybody for a short time without any reason.

Abberline:  Why don't you do it yourself.

Portsmith:  I got more important duties.  That's your job.  Do I really have to remind you of what your duties consist of?  *brakes suddenly the car*  Right, here's the port.  She should be on the Apparition, I believe.

Abberline *walks to the Apparition, looks around at the deck*  Kat?

*A still infuriated Kat silently waits thinking*  Just a bit closer luv, and I be for givin' ye 'xactly what ye be deservin'.  Don't be 'esitatin' mate, yer bad day 'as only just begun*

Abberline *sees no one, feels that the ship is too quiet, takes out his gun as he explores the ship further*  Kat, are you there?

Kat *The silence continues*  Come into my parlor.  *Smiles wickedly*  You're taking one down.

Abberline *walks the stairs below the deck, opening all the cabin doors, still seeing no one*  Kat, I know you are there, you can't hide from me.  *opens the last door*

Kat *Stares at Abberline's back, gripping shovel tighter.  The shovel arks out and Raven's face flashes through her mind.  At the last moment she pulls up short, cursing loudly*  BLOODY 'ELL!!!  I'm losin' my touch.  The kid is makin' me blasted soft.  *Hefts shovel and holds it at the ready*  State yer business then take yourself off my ship.  Don't go countin' on a second reprieve.  Gun or not, I'll take ye down.

Abberline:  No you won't.  I'll be delighted to leave this ship, but you'll be coming with me.  *Grabs the shovel, throws it in the corner, pushes Kat against the wall and pins her hard by her arms to the wall*  Getting mellow, dear?  You are under arrest.

Kidd:  Not in this lifetime, luv.  *Brings knee up hard in a strategic location, Abberline doubles over.  Kidd draws sword, sneers*  Get off my ship while ye still can.

*Off stage whisper: You're bloody killing me mate. Jeez!!!!*

Abberline *falls down, grits his teeth with pain and rage, lifts his gun*  Put ... that sword ... away ...

Kidd:  I got nothin' left to lose.  If yer gonna pull the trigger, best do it now.

Abberline *struggles to his feet and slumps on the bunk, leans against the wall*  Neither do I.  I have even less to lose than you. Kat, please, come back ... I know that you hate me now, but it hasn't always been like that.  You haven't always hated me.  I do remember ... But if you really want to use the sword, just do it.

Kidd:  You're tryin' to confuse me.  Ye were makin' yerself more than plain before.  I be not goin' to jail for no reason.  All I want is you off this ship.

Abberline:  I don't want to talk to you, Kidd.  Am I really confusing you, Kat?  Then it means that you remember too, you remember the time when you felt very differently for me.  When you didn't want me to leave ... *Looks up at her*  Are you going to use your sword on me?  Because I am not going anywhere.  And I am not talking of jail here, just arresting for interrogations, since you were so uncooperative.  As you always are.  If you mean what I said about Raven, I had a reason for that.  I wanted you take him away.  *smiles*  And now, ironic isn't it, one of the charges against you is planning of kidnapping him.  Just take him away from me.  I don't want him to grow up to be like me.  Don't you agree?

Kidd:  What I be rememberin' is neither 'ere nor there, leave it be.  *Frowns*  I'm thinkin' if Raven grew up to be like ye wouldna be an entirely bad thin' as long as 'e wasn't for chasin' the dragon.  *Looks at sword* Nay, I'll not use it.  A tap on the 'ead with a sho'el is one thin'   *sighs*  A sword be a 'orse of a entirely different color as it were.  Raven would ne'er forgive it.  Ye win, do yer worst.

Abberline:  I knew you would remember.  So you don't really hate me, do you?  *looking her straight in the eye*  It would not matter very much for Raven, you said yourself that he doesn't remember me.  Maybe he never will.  I hope he won't remember me.  *gets up, a little shaky still*  So you will follow me to the Office without any tricks?  Or do I need to put handcuffs on you?

Kat:  Ye 'ave already played the dirtiest trick possible, anythin' I'd come up with now would be anticlimactic.  But iffen yer feelin' the urge, by all means.  *Extends hands*  Clap me in irons.

Abberline:  I am not playing any tricks, Kat darling.  Are you ready?  Do you need anything with you?  *takes her by the arm*  I won't put on the handcuffs if you behave nicely.  I suppose Raven is at Manouche’s as usual?  *leads her out of the ship towards the Office*

At The Viper:

Manouche *arrives at the docks, boards The Viper for first time since she watched the video of Abberline with the men from the Order.  Enters cabin, looks around, sees that things are as she left them that night.  Picks up empty rum bottle from floor, sets on counter.  Goes over to table where laptop is still set up; sits down, hesitates, then types in necessary commands to make two extra copies of the video clip.  Leaves one copy on hard drive, makes another copy to take with her; places in pocket.  Removes microchip from reader, shuts computer down.  Stares at microchip for a few minutes, then returns it to the envelope that contains the others she took from Portsmith’s safe.  Seals envelope, takes envelope and laptop over to cabinet, locks them up securely.  Stands up, gazes out window for a few minutes, mind wandering, her thoughts melancholy.  Sighs, turns to leave – jumps violently and cries out as she comes face-to-face with the Leader, two of the Shadows standing behind him*

Manouche:  By th’ bleedin’ powers!  Are ye incapable o’ makin’ any noise whatsoever?

Leader:  Just checking in with you, Dreamer.  Your time is drawing near …

Manouche:  Y’don’t ‘ave to tell me, I’m well aware.

Leader:  I understand you and Blake are about to move into the factory for a few weeks, until the children are born.  Don’t look so surprised … surely you didn’t think we would agree to your request for more time without checking up on whether you were telling the truth?  Lucky for you, you were.  I do hope you weren’t thinking you could hide from us at the factory.  We know about the new security system Mr. Wonka has in place, and we know that you’ve received three security passes – for you, Blake and the Dreamer child.  But we have our ways around such things.  I would remind you, don’t try any tricks.  We could make things very unpleasant for your friends …

Manouche:  Leave them out o’ this, savvy?  I gave y’ me word.  *bristles*  How dare ye suggest I would ever use Willy an’ Madame like that?  I’m already ‘avin’ a hard time foistin’ me presence on ‘em, considerin’ the dangerous characters that seem t’ follow me about as of late.  But they don’t know about all that, an’ … well, knowin’ Willy an’ Madame, even if they knew, they’d insist on ‘avin’ me stay there anyway.  They … they tend t’ take me under their wing at every opportunity.  *smiles gently*

Leader *scoffs*  Silly fools.  Oh, they’re both good sorts, for humans.  But Mr. Wonka is terribly impulsive.  He’s lucky he fared as well as he did when trying to match wits with Marchand.  Well, no need to go into all that.  *looks at her*  I can see from your expression that this is one of those instances where we’ll simply have to … agree to disagree.  N'est-ce pas?

Manouche:  Aye.  *pauses*  Are -- are ye sure everythin’ ye told me will hold true?  Everyone’ll be spared, everyone’ll be safe?

Leader *impatiently*  Of course, just as I said.  Nothing’s changed.  And you’ll be with your brother again.  Why would –  *looks at her closely*  Oh, no.  You’re going to ask for more time, aren’t you?

Manouche *swallows, trembles slightly*  Well …

Leader:  I can’t believe I’m hearing this.

Manouche:  Y’see … Mr. Blake … he an’ I been talkin’ about a proper weddin’ …

Leader:  A wedding?  Whatever for?  You’re already married.  I should know, I performed the ceremony.  *scowls, shakes head at the memory*

Manouche:  Oh aye, I know all that.  But … well, Mr. Blake, he’s th’ sentimental type, savvy?  He wants t’ do it up right, with friends attendin’, an’ a reception an’ all.  So we started plannin’ it …

Leader:  Why did you do that, with our arrangement in place?

Manouche *glares at him*  An' what would ye 'ave had me do, said, “Oh, apologies, luv, I ‘ave a previous engagement, I’m handin’ meself over to th’ Guardians o’ the soul box.  Save me a piece o’ weddin’ cake, all right?” 

Leader:  Watch your tone, Dreamer.  *smirks*  I forgot about the fact that explaining the greater good would be futile to someone of Blake’s … romantic nature.  *sneers, pauses for a moment, looks at her sharply*  And just how much more time are you wanting?

Manouche:  W-we been talkin’ of a date in October … October 16, to be exact.  *something occurs to her, she smiles*  Y’know … this could be a sublime bit o’ timin’.  Correct me if I’m wrong, but if memory serves … I seem to recall a ceremony that takes place in Fiji right around Halloween, much like a Day o’ th’ Dead, innit?

Leader:  Yes.  So?

Manouche:  So … What a time fer ye to appear on th’ scene, triumphant, th’ soul box back in yer possession, an’ the power o’ me blood mixed with th’ power o’ … th’ power o’ me brother’s spirit.  Now I may be human, but bein’ a dreamer, I know somethin’ of mysticism an’ th’ spirit world.  I ‘appen to know that performin’ a ceremony such as what ye ‘ave planned fer me, in conjunction with th’ box … well, timin’ can make a significant difference in th’ power therein.  *watches Leader’s face carefully*  I’m right, aren’t I?  *winces slightly as Shadows buzz, agitated*

Leader *reluctantly*  Yes.  Yes, I have to admit it.

Manouche *beams*  Well, then!  Think of it, mate … *places one hand on Leader's shoulder, spreads the other one out, directing his attention to an imaginary horizon*  There ye’ll be, at th’ top o’ yer game, in a manner o’ speakin’.  Everythin’ comin’ together at th’ perfect time an’ place.  With th’ planets an’ stars in that particular conjunction … do ye realize Jupiter will be in Scorpio at that time?  Blimey!  An’ Mars retrogradin’.  *shrugs*  Well, with ye bein’ so well-versed in these matters, I’m sure a scallywag Gypsy human such as meself don’t ‘ave to tell ye how significant that is … how it’s a time that, by its very nature, separates th’ men from th’ boys.  Exposes the genuinely spiritually motivated leaders – pardon th’ expression – from th’ charlatans who ‘ave little more than delusions o’ grandeur.  Any blighter with a trace o’ vision will be well aware come that time.  But YOU … *sweeps arms toward Leader, impressively*  … by th’ powers!  YOU, with yer backlog o’ knowledge an’ expertise … ye’ll be in th’ bloody cat seat, mate.  Ye’ll ‘ave th’ entire populace in th’ palm o’ yer hand.  Truth be told, the more I think on it, th’ more I wonder why ye would rush this along when, if ye jus’ wait a few short months till October’s end, ye could ‘ave all manner o’ power an’ glory at yer feet.

Leader *snaps irritably at Shadows as they swarm closer to him*  All right, all right, I heard!  I’m standing right here.  *Is silent for a few minutes as he thinks it over.  Manouche maintains a poker face, watching him carefully, almost innocently.  Finally, he looks at her*  IF I agree to this … this will be your final reprieve.  I won’t even begin to consider another one.  Savvy?  *eyes her suspiciously; she nods*  Very well.  Go on, marry your man, have your party.  Just be ready to go when it’s over.  We’ll leave here October 17.  *thinks for a moment, looking pleased*  That should time everything quite nicely.  We’ll have plenty of time to return to Fiji, and prepare for a ceremony the citizenry won’t soon forget.  *nods approvingly at Manouche*  I have to admit, you’re right.  This will be much more powerful.

Manouche:  Agreed, mate.  I’m thinkin’ o’ you, really.  I mean, considerin’—

Leader *cuts her off, glares at her*  Spare me.  *With swift motion, he grabs her by the throat with one hand, slams her up against the wall, her feet barely touching the floor.  Brings his face close to hers, speaks in a low, deadly voice*  I’ve agreed to your request because I see how it will benefit me.  No other reason.  Don’t ever make the grave error of mistaking me for a pushover, Dreamer.  You know perfectly well what I’m capable of.  *Narrows his eyes, and Manouche shrieks as her head is quickly filled with horrific images of her brother.  She’s vaguely aware of the key around her neck heating quickly; Leader feels an unpleasant sensation, swears, loosens his hold.  She drops to the floor, trembling, breathing heavily; key cools down quickly*

Leader *recovers from strange sensation, glances at Shadows, satisfied that they noticed nothing.  He reaches down, grabs a handful of Manouche’s hair*  That’s only a taste of what you’ll get if you dare to cross me.  And I won’t even begin to describe how I’ll take it out on everyone you hold dear.  Do you understand?  *Manouche nods slightly*  October 17.  Be ready when we come for you.  *releases her, nods at Shadows; he spins around and leaves the ship, Shadows following close behind*

Manouche *stays where she is for a few minutes, head down, not daring to look up until she feels certain they’re gone.  Finally raises her head, wipes tears from her eyes, slowly stands up.  Weaves unsteadily over to counter, pours large glass of rum with shaky hand; drinks it down, trembling subsides a little.  Reaches in shirt, pulls out key to soul box; it’s back to normal, no heat radiating, just the simple, oddly-shaped key that she forgets she’s wearing half the time.  She gazes at it curiously*  B-bloody ‘ell … I wonder what’s gonna ‘appen with ye, come ceremony time in October?  Y’don’t even fancy th’ Leader bein’ in close proximity.  What’ll ‘appen, I wonder, when he lays a hand on ye?  *tucks key back in shirt, sets glass back on counter.  Glances around room to make sure she’s taken care of everything she came to deal with.  Puts out lantern, leaves ship*

Loralee *on the dock spots Manouche coming off the Viper.*  Well luv … all alone, are we?  Perhaps your time has come.  *Steps menacingly closer, teeth bared.*

Manouche *eyes wide*  Bloody ‘ell!  HELP, somebody!  *reaches in shirt, pulls out every little trinket she’s wearing, crosses, Celt symbols, and so on … including the key to the soul box … hoping one of them will disagree with Loralee.  Holds them up at her, tries to shield her face with her other arm*

Kat *Grabs Abberline's arm*  LOOK!!!  It's Manouche and bloody Loralee's goin' after 'er.  Bloody 'ell be doin' somethin'!!!!

Abberline *hears someone shout for help, lets go of Kat*  If you think of disappearing anywhere, I will find you.  *turns to look, but freezes as he sees it's Manouche with an unknown woman, takes a hesitant step towards them, can't anyway leave it like that.  Approaches, to the unknown woman*  What's the problem here?

Kat *watching in horror, is grabbed from behind and dragged off to that overworked undisclosed location.*

Loralee *Composes herself, turns and smiles*  Why, nothing at all luv.  This lady seems to have mistaken me for someone else and I was merely trying to reassure her.  *Observes Kat being dragged away and recognizes her abductor.  Shudders in fear.  But quickly recovers herself.*  Perhaps you can help her. She's not listening to me at all.  Just who might you be, luv?

Manouche *speaks to Loralee, glares at Abberline*  It’ll be a cold day in ‘ell before th’ likes o’ him can help – *looks over his shoulder, yells*  Blimey, KAT!  Let ‘er go, ye bastard!!

Abberline *with a sideway glance towards Manouche*  Inspector Abberline of Deppville Security.  I don't think that I know you.

Manouche *sarcastically*  Oh aye, let’s ‘ave introductions, shall we?  *waves hand toward Loralee*  Miss Loralee, may I present Inspector Abberline … Inspector, this is Miss Loralee.  One o' ye's a vampire … th' other's a backstabber … so I reckon th’ pair o’ ye should ‘ave plenty to talk about regardin’ bloodlettin’.  I wouldn’t trust either of ye as far as I could throw ye.  *scowls, turns to leave*

Abberline *faintly, turning pale*  A backstabber?  Manouche ...  *realizes there's nothing he can say to her*

Loralee:  Inspector?  I see.  No I don't believe I've had the pleasure.  Perhaps we could get better acquainted sometime soon.  *Glances at Manouche*  Under better circumstances.  I am most fascinated with your profession.  I would simply adore hearing all about it.

Abberline:  Really?  I think this is the right time to get acquainted.  *glances towards Manouche*  I don't think she was shouting help for nothing.  If your name is Loralee, then you are the lady I have been looking for.  I think we are letting her leave now in peace.  *turns to Manouche, swallows*  I don't think you want to see me nor listen to me, and it is useless to offer any explanations.  I meant never any harm to you, though you may not believe me.  And ... and losing you ... was not worth ... the ... that damned deal ...

Manouche *stops, turns back at what Abberline is saying.  Steps closer to him, grabs his arm, pulls him aside, a few feet away from Loralee.  Stares at him, eyes wide*  Was it all ye hoped for?  Did ye ‘ave yer revenge?  Did ye make ‘em pay?  I reckon it were most gratifyin’, t’ see th’ look in their eyes.  But … to so willin’ly throw over a mate … at least … I thought I were a mate … It’s as if th’ time I spent with ye, all th’ hours talkin’ an’ tryin’ to help y’ feel better meant sod-all.  It’s as if th’ time Mr. Blake an’ I spent worryin’ about ye … th’ way I come to yer defense with Kat, tryin’ t’ make peace with th’ pair o’ ye, fer Raven’s sake … were all meanin’less.  *looks away, is quiet for a long time, trembling with emotion*  I … I think I could almost understand it.  Pirate, after all.  I – I can only imagine how it must’ve felt fer ye all these years … livin’ with that ‘orrible memory … an’ to then be offered th’ chance fer revenge.  When I put meself in yer place … I’m not so sure I wouldn’t be tempted t’ make th’ same choice, though I'm pretty certain I wouldn't 'ave done it.  Still ... I think I could feel more fergivin’ … but for th’ way ye used me Mr. Blake …  *turns to Abberline, staring, tears fill her eyes*  Why’d ye ‘ave to do it?  Why couldn’t ye come to us an’ talk about it?  Per’aps we could’ve figured somethin’ out.  *tears spill down her cheeks, she turns away, looks back at The Viper*  I ain’t so collected as I were hopin’ I’d be when – an’ if – I confronted ye with all this.  But I … I jus’ been chattin’ with our friends th’ Guardians …  *shakes head angrily*  Bloody 'ELL.  Never mind.  *reaches in pocket, pulls out copy of memory chip; takes Abberline’s hand, puts chip in his hand, closes his fingers around it*  ‘Ere’s how I found out, Inspector.  No visions, no Gypsy magic, no secret potions from Malachi.  Jus’ a bit o’ clandestine filmin’ by yer own dear boss, Commander Portsmith.  *looks down, chokes back a sob; when she looks back up at him, she’s calmer*  Ch-cheers fer steppin’ in when that vampire come at me.  I – I ‘ave to go now.  I pray I can keep all this from Mr. Blake.  If he knew what ye did …  *stares at him for a moment, despair in her eyes; glances at Loralee, then turns and starts for home*

Abberline *casts a quick glance at Loralee*  I'll deal with you later.  *follows Manouche*  Portsmith's chips ...  Please listen to me!  I was sure I could save you from them, I would never have otherwise even thought of making the deal.  I did it for me, it's true.  But I did it also for Raven.  How else could I have him to return?   I was sure that he would hear you and return, like he did.  I could not resist avenging those men, that's what I have been living for all these years.  I simply could not resist.  They gave me two days, I went into the den and I – I agreed to do what they wanted ... I didn't need the two days.  It was not worth it.  It was not worth your friendship.  Those men are dead now, but they told me ...  They told me how she – how she died and that she ...  she was anyway going to leave me.  *can't go on for a while*  I shall tell Blake myself.  I am sure he needs his revenge, too.  And ... and I thank you for all you have done for me.  I am sorry you wasted your time with me.

Manouche *frowns*  If yer truly wantin’ to make any amends, ye’ll never mention this t’ Mr. Blake.  He’s about t’ take great joy in surprisin’ me with somethin’ beautiful, an’ I won’t ‘ave ye ruinin’ that fer ‘im jus’ so ye can clear yer bloody conscience.  Revenge.  *shakes head*  Did ye not jus’ learn yer lesson on th’ subject o’ revenge??  Ye tell me it weren’t worth losin’ me friendship.  Then ye turn around an’ talk of offerin’ Mr. Blake a chance at empty revenge.  What possible revenge could Mr. Blake wreak on ye that’d make him feel better about knowin’ ye were doin’ nothin’ more than keepin’ him occupied while … while … *gazes out toward the water, quiet for a few minutes*  Ye ‘ave to understand, Mr. Blake don’t respond to betrayal quite th’ same as other men.  He’s a poet.  He’s been an outlaw, an’ he’s done murder in th’ name o’ self defense … but he’s a poet, first an’ foremost.  Savvy?  There won’t be no smoulderin’ anger buildin’ inside ‘im fer an eventual explosion.  There’ll jus’ be … deep hurt.  Ye’d be takin’ a significant spark away from him, an’ I won’t ‘ave it.  *is quiet again for a few minutes, wraps arms around herself, still looking out at water*  I – I’m truly sorry ye ‘ad to hear about … that them bastards gave ye details about yer wife.  There’s always th’ off chance they were lyin’ about some o’ that jus' to get to ye … about her leavin’ ye, an’ all.  But either way … it must’ve been terrible.  *she looks at him*  When I first saw that video, I didn’t know what t’ do.  *tears fill her eyes, she brushes them away impatiently*  I still ‘ave too many enemies, Inspector.  Words can’t express how I felt to discover that I ‘ad yet another one … one that I thought was me friend.  An’ now … well, it’s to yer credit that ye now say it weren’t worth it.  I … I feel a bit less afraid o’ ye, now that we’ve talked.  I actually find meself wantin’ t’ be able to fergive ye.  But I ‘aven’t got it in me, at least not at th’ moment.  I truly wish there were somethin’ ye could say or do t’ change me mind, though I don’t know what it’d be.  *sighs deeply*  Th’ plan worked as far as Raven’s concerned.  He knew I were in trouble, an’ he came back.  He … he don’t remember ye, did Sergeant Godley tell ye?  I, ah … I didn’t tell Raven what ye did.  Per’aps we’ll be lucky an’ he’ll never find out.  I ‘ave to admit, I don’t know how I feel about ye visitin’ him at this particular juncture.  In some ways, fer now, it may be a blessin’ he don’t clock ye.  If he did, an’ he tuned in on yer thoughts th’ way he’s done in th’ past … I don’t think he’d like what he’d see right now.  Don’t mean t’ hurt ye with that.  S’just th’ way it is.  *glances around worriedly*  I’m very tired, Inspector, I reckon I’ll be on me way now.  I ‘ave a lot on me mind, with th’ Guardians— but never mind all that.  *looks at him*  Let’s jus’ let it be fer now.  Go on about yer business … workin’ fer Portsmith again, blimey, is that really what ye want?  Ah well … *shivers slightly, then thinks of something else*  Do me one favor, be a bit more appreciative o’ Sergeant Godley.  He’s become a very dear friend t’ Mr. Blake an’ me … an’ he were most kind to me th’ other day when I were so upset.  *she looks at him steadily, much more calm, though her eyes still hold deep sorrow; nods*  Right, I’m off.  Remember, not a word t’ Mr. Blake.  We’ll be seein’ ye soon, no doubt.  *shrugs*  It’s a small town, innit?

Abberline:  I understand.  If you want it that way.  I just can't ever look Blake in the eyes.  And I am not trying to see Raven, it is enough for me to know that he's safe with you.  It's better for him that he doesn't remember me.  It's better for us both if he just forgets.  Please don't mention me to him.  He will have a good father in Blake.  He's a good man ...

I understand you can't ever trust me again.  You don't have to forgive me, what I did can't be forgiven.  I knew all the consequences and I still made the deal.  I am not trying to justify myself in your eyes.  If I were you, I wouldn't even listen.  As for Godley, I have to tell him, and it means that I am going to lose him, too.  I paid too high a price for my revenge ...  I lost all friends I had, and now I know I would
have lost her anyway.  You don't have to see me.  I am going to the hospital, I signed the form for the treatment.  And after it, I will leave this place for good and try to start somewhere else once again.

And one more thing before you go, I know you don't want to hear this.  When I knew I've lost you, I realized … that ... that I ... that it's more than friendship I feel for you.  That's all.  I won't bother you again.  Goodbye, Manouche.  *turns around and walks away without looking at her*

Manouche *stares after him, shocked*  B-blimey … Inspector, wait!  *runs after him, stops him, stands before him for a moment, trying to decide what to say*  Inspector … Fred … I been privy t’ yer innermost thoughts in recent times, ‘avin’ seen yer journal, an’ through our talks.  I … I ‘ad no idea ye felt this way, but … *scratches head*  … gol, I’m so confused … I’m glad ye felt ye could tell me.  When I think how y’ were so unwillin’ to open up to anyone not all that long ago, compared to now … *looks up at him*  Truth be told, in another time an’ place, I could’ve felt th’ same fer you, savvy?  I’ve always seen yer good qualities, always knew they were there.  An’ in spite o’ what ye done … an’ in spite o’ th’ fact that I don’t know if I can ever trust ye again … I still believe they’re there.  Ye’ve spent years steeped in thoughts o’ vengeance an’ self-medication … all that’s bound to ‘ave an adverse effect on yer reasonin’.  *looks away from him, brings hands up to face*  By th’ powers, I’m so BLOODY ANGRY with ye … but I still see th’ good, too, god 'elp me.  An’ … yer still Raven’s dad.  I’m at a loss, I don't know what t' do …  *remembers something, looks at him sharply*  Wait … what’d ye say about th’ hospital?  Ye signed that form, are ye mad??  ‘S dangerous, that.  What were ye thinkin’?  Ye mustn’t do it, mate …  *puts hand on his arm briefly; quickly withdraws it, looks at him, exasperated*

Abberline *eyes downcast*  At least you will speak to me.  Why don't you just slap me, or turn your back to me?  It would be easier.  I know it is just pity you feel for me, but that's enough for me.  *smiles faintly*  I am sorry that I told you, I will never mention it again.  I shouldn't have said it, I should not have told you that I ... love you, and I am not wanting anything in return.  Just don't hate me, don't pity me.  I was sure that all feelings like that were dead in me ... I will never forget you ...  *backs off from her when she puts her hand on his arm*  Yes, I am going in for the treatment.  I signed it.  I don't know what else to do.

Manouche:  I don’t pity ye, I swear.  An’ surprisin’ly enough … I don’t hate ye.  I’m angry, an’ I don’t know if I can ever trust ye again … but I don’t hate ye.  *looks away, shakes her head in wonder*  Blimey.  *looks back at him*  We won’t speak of it again … but don’t be sorry y’ told me.  Th’ way I see it … ye’ve learned a lot ‘ere as of recent.  Self-awareness, savvy?  Seems t’ me it’d be a shame t’ toss it all away jus’ when yer in a position t' benefit from it an’ be able to possibly live again.  So I hope ye’ll find out exactly what’s involved in this business at th’ hospital, an' not jus' walk right into it like lamb t' th' slaughter.  *shrugs*  Jus’ me opinion, fer what it’s worth.  An’ as fer leavin’ town … I don’t think y' should go.  *looks at him carefully*  ... not unless ye ‘ave a solid plan.  *brings hand up to eyes*  I ‘ave a lot on me mind, Inspector … I can’t think straight right now, I reckon I need t’ go home.  T-take care, mate.  *turns abruptly, walks away quickly.  Thinks to herself:*  By th’ powers, one way or another, I’m gonna find out what this bloody “treatment” is …

Abberline *looks after her, doesn't stop her from going*  I am a fool, I am a bloody fool ...  *then he snaps back to reality*  Kat!  Kat, where did you disappear?  I should have handcuffed her to me ...  I am a fool of the worst kind ...  *runs back to Loralee, who watches him with amusement*  Did you see something?  Where did she disappear?  *looking at her with sudden suspicion*  Did you have something to do with it?  You did not tell me your name, but I heard Manouche call you Loralee.  If that is who you are, then I must insist upon you following me to the Security Office.  I have some questions to ask about a missing person.

Loralee:  From what I observed, your partner had his hands full dragging that woman off to jail.  She seemed not overly pleased.  *Smiles sweetly*  I know nothing of any missing person, but I would most willingly follow you anywhere you wish.

Abberline *confused*  My partner?  Who?  I was alone with her.  *still more confused*  Er … right.  To my office, if you please.

Corso *walking by with his bag, sees the pair of them and stops*  Is he bothering you?  *to Abberline*  Sorry, Inspector, she is a friend of mine, and I do hope that you were not trying drag her to the Office.  I am sure you have duties to attend to.  *to Loralee*  Is there something I can help you with.

Abberline:  But … Kat disappeared ... she saw something ...

Corso:  Well isn't it your duty to try and find her then instead of harassing innocent bystanders?  *turns his back on him, speaks to Loralee*  I have been waiting for you most anxiously.  *grins*  I hope he wasn't rude to you.  *walks away with her, leaves Abberline alone on the docks*

At the factory:

*Willy sits in his office, reading the paper, when Madame enters his thoughts*

Madame:  'Willy, I need to get up, I'm having trouble again'

Willy:  'Coming...'  *puts paper down on desk, goes out to master living room, Madame sits on the sofa, book next to her, she looks at Willy and gives her best smile*

Madame:  This sucks ...

Willy:  It'll all be over soon ... come on … let’s get you up.  *grabs under her arms, lifts her up with what seems like ease to him*

Madame *grunts, stands up finally*  When’s Manouche coming?

Willy:  I dunno, sweetie ...

Madame *sighs*  Please be soon.

Willy *smiles, takes her hand, they begin to walk out the master suite*  I've been having feelings lately ...

Madame *smirks*  There's news.

Willy *grins down at her*  About Manouche ...

Madame *smile disappears*  Like what?

Willy:  I dunno, I'm not getting a clear reading ... but something's up ... and I'm gonna find out what.

Madame:  You think it’s something she’s hiding from you and William?

Willy *nods slowly*  Actually, I have no doubt ...

Madame:  hm ... *looks at ground, thinks*

In Spain:

Hanson *arm around Brittany's waist, ushers her out of the building, a tall man opens the door of a limo and they get in*

Colonel *keeps it at a whisper, even though the dividing window is up*  Dean stole those paintings ... and stole them again from Portsmith to get money.

Hanson *whispers*  So what do you want to do?

Colonel:  I can't turn Dean in.

Hanson:  Why not?

Colonel:  He's going to help me with Portsmith.  *Hanson sighs*

At one o’ them thar undisclosed locations (ULs):

Kat *Having been shoved through the door of an old abandoned house, she turns and finally sees her abductor*  You!  But I told ye I didn't want ye 'elp.

*He answers*  I'm not helping you.  I'm using you.  Now that I know the identity of your little vampiress, I have no choice but to dispose of her before I can proceed with my own plans.  You, my dear, are the bait.

Manouche searches for Kat:

Manouche *after leaving Abberline, sets off in the direction she’d seen Kat dragged off by the unknown assailant.  She knew it was an off-chance but felt she had to try to find her.  She searches everywhere, calling Kat’s name, to no avail, till she arrives at the city limits, and the road leaving town.  She stops, gazes down the road, concentrates … shivers violently as the abandoned house fills her thoughts.  She’s pretty sure it’s the same one where Nate took Madame when he kidnapped her, when she and Willy attempted the rescue and she got caught instead … the house where she was briefly held before Nate took her to Marchand’s hideout, where she first saw Raven.  All the thoughts come flooding back to her, and she weaves on her feet for a moment, nearly falling down.  She snaps back to attention, shakes her head.  Hesitates for a moment, then decides she won’t be able to rest easy unless she checks it out.  Cautiously makes her way to the house, finally sees it … dark, ominous, no lights from inside and not a sound to be heard.  Looks at it uncertainly; maybe she’s wrong.  Instead of going inside to investigate further, she finds a hiding place, crouches down in some bushes at the edge of the yard.  She decides to watch for a little while; listens for a sound, waits to see if anything happens*

Kat:  BAIT!!!  Ye think I'll be standin' about tryin' to attract 'er.  Yer daft.  Bait in my experience always ends up dead.  What's 'appened to all that talk of yours of a road to redemption, eh?  Don't gettin' someone killed put a black mark on ye?  And what 'as she done to ye that you'd want to kill one of yer own kind anyhow?

Jerod:  You don't have a choice.  What you want is of no consequence whatsoever.  But rest assured your survival is most important for now.  Of course, that could change.  So if you value your life, I suggest you do as you're told.

Manouche *jumps at the sound of Kat’s voice yelling “BAIT!!!”, followed by lowered voices.  Slowly stands up, draws pistol, approaches house cautiously; stands against wall on porch, near door, hoping to hear better*