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Looking after Raven:
Kat *to Abberline* Well
I offer my apologies for that unfortunate incident. I am also 'oping that there
maybe a weddin' in the offin'. If so, I offer my congratulations. *Smiles* I'm sure you'd be wantin' to be tiein' up any loose
ends, savvy? For instance, Raven. Feelin'
as you do, surely you would be willin' to sign a legal paper renouncin' any and all rights to the child. After all, I do 'ave plans of my own and would want to be able to give Raven a home with a certain gentleman
I'm most taken with.
Abberline: Wedding? Why should there be a wedding? Unless it is between you and that 'gentleman'. As you should
know, I have no legal rights at all. You know that I am not mentioned in any
legal documents as Raven's father. But, I am disinclined to renounce any rights. On the contrary, I am going to claim my rights as a father. I don't want him to grow up with a pirate and a vampire. I
can offer him a decent home. I have a position, I have an income and means to support a family. If you want to have him, you
will have to prove that I am not the father, which of course is possible, even probable.
How about some tests?
Kat: Bloody 'ell if such tests would work te my advantage they'd be done already, 'ang it!! As to a weddin', I were referin' to you and the bimbo, savvy. I
be not daft 'nuff to consider tiein' myself to a vamp. Ye don't make no sense
at all. One day, ye ne'er want to see Raven again, and next yer for tryin' te
take 'im! *Steps close* As for that
pirate slur! *Furious, she slaps him hard.*
Abberline *grabs her wrist,
holds it hard* Stop that. He's not
yours. He is my son. I can't have
my son becoming a pirate. As a father, I have to claim my rights for my only
son. I will fight for his custody. I
can provide a home for him. I had thought of giving him up, but never to you.
I don't think you should be trusted with a child. I was ready to give him in the care of Manouche, but since I heard your plans, I have to step in and save
the boy. He needs a decent home. As
for Daphne, I have no plans of marrying her. Why should I? But I am not letting you call her a bimbo.
Kat *Tears in her eyes* I see. The truth finally comes through. I'm less than nothin'. Without Raven,
I 'ave no reason to hope. Arrest me. I
confess to killing Roberto Pitarri in cold blood. Pure premeditated murder in
the first degree. I believe the penalty is 'angin'. So be it.
Abberline: That's not enough, you know. I have to have the statement and
you to sign under it. *leads her to the Office, locks the door after them, goes
behind his desk, motions her to sit on the sofa, takes a paper and a pen* So,
what were you afraid of? I don't think you've said half of what you should say.
Why don't you want to accept any help from me? Since
the day I got to know that Raven was my son, I have repeatedly asked you to talk about it with me. I think there's much that should be cleared out. You said you
don't hate me, but the way you treat me doesn't seem like that.
Kat: Treating you that way kept ye at a distance. I didn't want
to risk feelin' anythin' towards ye. I was e'en more afraid you'd take Raven
or worse yet that Raven would prefer ye to me. Write what ye will, I'll sign
anythin'. Just get it o'er with and leave me be.
Abberline *stunned, confused* I - I don't know what to say ... It could
have all been very different. *looks at her intensely in the eyes* I am sorry for all I said to you. I was afraid you were going
to keep Raven away from me. I didn't believe you ever felt anything towards me,
but I ... I guess it's too late anyway. I don't know what to do with Raven. You know that he doesn't know me anymore. *shoves the paper aside* There really isn't anything incriminating on you. What are
you going to do if I release you now?
Kat *Sadly* 'e'll remember and want to be with ye. Ye be right, I be no good for 'im.
'e'd be better off with ye. You 'ave my confession be that not 'nuff.
Abberline: He hasn't wanted to see me. And Manouche doesn't want him
to see me. It seems that she's the one who decides everything concerning Raven. So, even if I wanted to have him, I can't. You forget the legal documents that
you yourself signed too, taking all my rights to him from me. As if I didn't
exist. *after a pause* I don't know
what to do. Maybe neither of us is good for him.
*thinks for a while* Your confession is good for nothing. You would be acquitted. And I would probably be charged instead
for trying to frame you. Is that what you want?
Kat: The guardianship paper is not legal. A birth certificate was
required. Raven ne'er had a birth certificate so I forged it.
Abberline *getting interested*
You forged a birth certificate? And
left out the father's name, did you? Yes, that would make it invalid. Then we could do something about it ... I am not mentioned
anywhere, but if you would make an official statement that I am the father, it would really make that guardianship paper useless.
It could be you and me, Kat, after all he is our child, not Manouche's. What do you say? I would be ready to drop
all the charges against you and you could go free to that gentleman of yours. We
could share the guardianship, you and me ...
Kat: I'll do what ye think be right but ye should know, that gentleman don't exist. I were angry and wanted to 'urt ye by makin' ye think another would play dad to Raven.
Abberline *smiles at her*
No gentleman? Really? That's why I said that he was an unwanted child at Chez Roux, I wanted you to get angry. I am sorry for being rude to you. Now it's Blake who gets to
play his dad. *opens a drawer, leafs through some papers, finds what he was looking
for* Here's the form. I acknowledge
my paternity, and you approve of it. Will you sign it? I know I did not do right by you in Fiji, but you never told me ...
Kat: I'll sign.
Abberline:
Good. *hands her the form and a
pen* And if you see Raven … could you ... I would want to know if he still
has no memories of me. You could help me. And
I would not take him from you. *waits while Kat fills and signs the form, reads
it through, signs it himself* You are now free to go, Kat. *gets up from behind his desk, comes to Kat, offers his hand to her cautiously* Thank you, Kat. I hope you would like me at least a little. *flashes a bright smile, looks her in the eyes*
Kat: Likin' ye be not the problem. *Sighs* What 'appens now? I suppose ye intend te leave Raven with Manouche
and Blake.
Abberline: No, no. I want you to take him until he remembers me. You are the mother, Kat. He wants to be
with you, I know it. I know that you said earlier that you are going to take
him away, but I hope you won't. He needs both parents, and that's us, Kat. Take him home.
Kat: But ye said I shouldna be trusted with a child. That ye didna
want 'im growin' up to be a pirate.
Abberline:
I am sorry I said that. I did not
mean it. I really did not mean it. You
will be a good mother, Kat, and let me try to be a father to him. I know I have
failed him, but let me have a chance. I will trust him in your care. *thinks for a while* Maybe he will never remember me ...
Kat: 'e'll remember. There were sometin' special in 'is eyes when
e'er ye were with 'im.
Abberline: You think there is hope for me? But I scared him off and that's
why he doesn't want to remember me.
Kat: I don't know what ye mean by that. But if Raven fears anythin'
it would be that ye didna want 'im.
Abberline: You don't know why he fled ... He fled because of an old journal.
That was when I – that was after I … when she … I wrote that I am relieved that I don't have any children, that I don't want any, and that I
never should have any. That was before I knew anything about Raven. He thought that I did not want him. How could I have known
then? And how could I have known he would find it and read it? But he's not at all what – what I feared any children by me would be.
Kat: Then that be why 'e don't remember. 'is worst fear. My poor luv. Wait, I gotta idea. It might take time but it'd work, I think. You 'ave to see
'im but not tell 'im right off who you are. Let 'im know you again and trust
ye. Then givin' time 'e would remember. Savvy?
Abberline:
I think you are right. But how can
I get to see him? Not at Manouche and Blake’s, she's mad at me now. You have to help me out with it, fetch him from them, so I would get a chance. I never intended it for his eyes.
Kat: I'll do anythin' for Raven. But why be
Manouche mad at ye? What 'appened? I
thought ye were bein' great friends.
Abberline
*Cringes* I – I'd rather not go into it now. She's not a friend anymore. I'll explain it later to you ...
I just want that you take him now, Kat. I really do. *steps closer to her, puts his hand under her chin, raises her head so that he can look her in the eyes*
I know you'll do anything for him. This
will be best for him, he needs his own parents. Us both.
Kat: It 'ad to be some sort of misunderstandin'. I
be sure if ye'd just come with me and talk te 'er. It could be made right. She loves Raven as well. She'll be 'appy
for 'im.
Abberline:
I'll clear it up with her. It is
she who's always reminded that we are the parents, and that he needs both of us. I'll
talk to her. And you can talk to her when you fetch Raven.
Kat: Very well. I'll go now.
Abberline *looks after Kat,
then returns back to his desk, writes a report on the case of the dead pirate that clears Kat from all suspicion, signs it, hands
it over to the secretary who still has a ragged sleeveless t-shirt* Give this
to Commander Portsmith. *Then he goes back to his office, takes the form with
him and leaves for the hospital.*
At Manouche and Blake’s house:
Manouche *stands in the doorway
of Raven’s room, sees him reading, watches him for a few minutes*
Raven *looks up, smiles* I knew you were there.
Manouche: Aye, I reckon ye did. *comes in, sits on bed next to him.* I … I’d like to talk t’ ye about somethin’ … somethin’
important …
Raven *closes book, sets
it aside, looks puzzled* I thought it would be good … but now I’m
not so sure …
Manouche: Y’thought what would be good?
Raven: I – I knew you were gonna want to talk to me today … an’ I thought I knew what it was
about. But … *he looks at her carefully, his eyes grow large with concern* Aren’t you … you’re not gonna …
Manouche: What, luv?
Raven: I thought … the way you were actin’ recently … I thought you were gonna have a baby.
Manouche: Blimey! No, I’m afraid not. It’s a lovely thought, but that ain’t it. *looks
down, absently traces a pattern on the blanket with her finger* No, I come t’
talk to ye about yer future. Y’see … yer parents … they been
talkin’. Now that’s a good thing, mind. ‘Cause if they can finally get on well with each other an’ reach an accord on yer welfare,
that’s as it should be. They’re yer parents, savvy? Mr. Blake an’ me, we love ye desp’rate … but we ain’t yer parents.
Raven: I still can’t remember my father. I want to remember
him, I want to so bad … but I just can’t.
Manouche: I know ye want to, lil’ mate, an’ everyone’ll help ye with that. But ye know yer mum, ay?
Raven *smiles, face lights
up* Is she still gonna take me on a sailing voyage?
Manouche: Not sure, luv. But … th’ thing is … like
I said, she an’ yer dad, I ‘appen to know they been talkin’ about where yer to live from now on.
Raven: How do you know? Ohhh … *nods, smiles a very small smile
when she gives him a look* That’s right, it’s just how we know stuff
sometimes.
Manouche: Aye, dreamer. *sighs*
Anyway … I don’t know fer sure, ‘cause I ain’t heard th’ outcome. But I think ye’ll be goin’ to live with yer mum, an’ per’aps spend some time with
yer dad.
Raven: But … when will I be here?
Manouche: I ain’t sure, luv. It’s up to yer parents. *looks down again* There’s always
a chance they … they won’t want ye ‘ere at all …
Raven *tears fill his eyes* B-but … but I thought they were both your f-friends …
Manouche *swallows* I thought so, too. *looks at him, sees
his tears, manages a smile, takes his hands in hers* There, luv, none o’
that! It’ll all be sound, savvy?
Jus’ think, ye’ll be with yer parents at last. An’ who
knows, we may still … we may still get t’ see ye. Lots can ‘appen,
y’know.
Raven: I don’t wanna go! I mean … I want to be with them
… but I want to be with you, too. *his tears fall, he squeezes her hands* N-no one else can hear what I’m thinkin’ jus’ by h-holdin’
my hands … only T-true Dreamer an’ you …
Manouche *blinks back tears* Aye, it’s a special bond we ‘ave, there’s no denyin’. But ye’ll see … ye’ll find ye ‘ave a special bond with both
yer parents, as well. An’ yer dad … he has a bit o’ th’
dreamer about ‘im, as well. Oh, there, there, lil’ mate, don’t
cry …
Raven *sniffles loudly, then
he holds her hands tighter; he stares at her, his face pale* No … NO. You can’t … you can’t do it.
Manouche: D-do what, luv? What’re ye—
Raven *sobs* You’re giving yourself up to them. I – I see it. You can’t! Why would you do that? *starts to cry*
Manouche: Right, I can’t hide anythin’ from ye. I shoulda
known. Shh, shh, keep it down, don’t let Mr. Blake hear ye. *looks toward door, listens, doesn’t hear anything. Turns
back to him* Y’see, Raven … I’m still hopin’ I can get
out of it. I ain’t givin’ up, an’ ye mustn’t, either. I’m countin’ on ye to be strong, an’ to not let on ye know about
it. Can ye do that fer me? *he jumps
into her arms, she holds him close* Remember how it was when Nate were holdin’
us? Remember how it was easier t’ face it as long as we both kept believin’
we’d be rescued? An’ it worked, didn’t it? *turns his face up to hers, kisses his cheek* So I need ye
to do it again, all right? If yer mum an’ dad want t’ take ye, I
need ye to go without a fuss. An’ we’ll jus’ hope we can find
a way t’ make things right again, so we can keep seein’ each other. We’re
brave pirates, an’ we’re brave dreamers, savvy? What say ye? Do we ‘ave an accord?
Raven *nods* A-aye. *wipes his eyes, manages a smile*
Manouche *smiles, hugs him
close, kisses him again* Then I can bear it.
Cheers, lil’ mate. *wipes her eyes*
An’ now … how ‘bout I take ye over to th’ studio, so ye can visit with yer mum’s brother
Gili? Mr. Blake’s writin’, an’ … I ‘ave some business
in town in awhile. I think there’s a recordin’ session today, I’m
sure Graham’ll let ye watch.
Raven *nods again, looks
eager* Y-yeah … I love Uncle Gili.
An’ the studio’s neat.
Manouche: Right, then, let’s ‘ave at it, lil’ mate. *stands
up, takes his hand. They leave the room, Manouche takes him over to the studio,
where Gili is waiting to greet them*
At Deppville Hospital:
Abberline *walks to the reception,
notes that the receptionist is amazingly like the secretary* I want to cancel
the reservation for treatment. The name's Abberline.
Receptionist *looks
at the screen* I will inform Dr. Rainey.
Abberline: Good. *is about to leave when he spots Daphne, with a white
coat and her hair in a ponytail, stops her, looks around him and notices a small linen closet, pushes her in and against the
wall, kisses her* I had to come and see you ...
Daphne: Careful, sugar! This isn’t a good time or place. *looks around* Well, maybe it’s
a good place. *giggles, pops her gum* Really,
though, Dr. Rainey is in a foul mood, and he’s just waiting for a chance to let me have it. So save this for later. *she kisses his mouth, hard, then
reluctantly pushes away from him; opens door, smoothes her hair back, speaks to him in a brisk voice* Now, what can I do for you?
Abberline:
Ah... I... I cancelled an appointment with Dr. Rainey ... There was a recipe for a … drug he prescribed. Can I get it from you? *in a low voice* You didn't get any papers on the research. I have to know more
about it, just to know ... I have to be able to pose as a patient, Daphne ...
Daphne: You can take care of that yourself, Inspector, just go to the pharmacy. I’m sure Dr. Rainey will have phoned the order in. *lowers
her voice, hisses at him* You don’t understand, I really can’t talk
about this here! I think he knows something’s up. You have to leave … we’ll talk about it later. *lowers
her voice even further, as she considers the other papers she’s decided to bring to him*
I … I do have more information … I’ll bring it to you tonight. *smiles* I'll bring something
else, too. I went shopping today ... spent a lot of time in the lingerie department. *quickly kisses his neck,
winks* I have to run, Dr. Rainey's looking for me. See you later. *turns, races to elevator*
At From Hell Court:
Daphne *goes to From Hell
Court after finishing up at work, before she goes home to get ready for her date with Abberline. She peeks in tavern
windows, finally sees Malachi seated at his usual place at the bar. She enters,
comes up, sits next to him*
Malachi *facing bar, keeps
his eyes straight ahead, fixed on shelves full of bottles; smirks* I hear you
repeatedly pass inspection.
Daphne: Very funny. *orders a drink, looks at him* I want to ask you a couple of questions.
Malachi: Ask away. *lights cigarette*
Not sure how chatty I feel, but give it a shot.
Daphne: I want to know what you’ve been giving Inspector Abberline.
Malachi: What difference does it make? Just a little family recipe,
doll-face, handed down through generations of my family. Anyway, I’m through
playing rumrunner for the good Inspector. Yes, we’ve agreed to disagree
on a few things, and are going our separate ways. *takes a drink* Why do you want to know?
Daphne: Just wonderin’. I’m working on a … well,
it has to do with a night school class I’m taking. I’m trying to
figure out if there was something in the Inspector’s treatment that was responsible for the results of those early blood
tests … the ones where he was so clean …
Malachi: Clean? You sure we’re talking about the same Abberline? I bet he hasn’t had a clean blood test since he was twelve. *smokes*
Daphne: Well, he had one at the hospital, very recently. *takes a
drink, glances at him* Soooo … he likes to drink a lot, eh?
Malachi: Drink, smoke, sure, he loves it all. So you see, anything
I gave him was mild in comparison. I just know how to cure a hangover, baby,
that’s all. *looks at her for the first time, frowns* Fer cryin’ out loud, what the hell are you drinking?
Daphne: Pink Squirrel. *pauses, drinks for a moment* Okay, what about … what about that woman who hurt him?
Malachi *laughs* Is that for your night-school class, too?
Daphne: C’mon, Malachi, I thought we were still friends.
Malachi: Yeah, okay. Sure. *orders
another drink for himself* And another Pink Gerbil for the campfire girl here. *Daphne looks indignant, but glad to get the free drink; the barkeep rolls his eyes* Woman who hurt him … what woman? Who’re
you talking about?
Daphne: You know, the one he’s so miserable over. He has her
pictures hanging in the house, he says her name in his sleep … Manouche.
Malachi *raises his eyebrows* Manouche? Her pictures … No, you must be mistaken … you must be thinking of his dead wife, Victoria.
Daphne: No, Manouche, that’s the name, I’m sure of it.
Malachi: He says it in his sleep? Oh, boy … *runs hand through
his hair* What’d he tell you about her?
Daphne: He won’t talk about her.
Malachi *mutters* I bet. *finishes cigarette, lights another*
Daphne: C’mon, tell me about her. I can pay you. *pulls out antique earrings*
Malachi *glances at them* Where the hell did you get those?
Daphne: Never mind, I just got ‘em.
Malachi: I couldn’t do anything with those. If I tried to sell
‘em, the law would pounce on me so fast my head would spin. They’re
too unusual. *scowls* You’re
beginning to get on my nerves. Why don’t you go back to Abberline’s? Or I guess if you wait long enough, he’ll probably show up here.
Daphne *looks past him at
stairway that leads to opium den, wrinkles her nose* He does that to forget her
… she must’ve really hurt him bad.
Malachi *laughs* Yeah, that’s it. It’s all Manouche’s fault. He never set foot in an opium den till dat woman done him wrong. *barkeep grins at him as he wipes a glass with a towel*
Daphne *frowns* You are no help at all! *hops off barstool petulantly.*
Malachi: Okay, okay, I’m sorry, c’mere. *stands up, stops
her, turns her around, holds her by the shoulders, his voice gentle* Look, if
you want to know about Manouche, just keep asking Abberline. Whatever you do,
don’t let up on him. You know, he’s one of those sensitive guys. He needs the right woman – a kind, understanding woman – to bring him
out, to help him get in touch with his feelings. You know, help him be up front
about his feelings so he can get behind them. Savvy? *lowers his dark glasses, gives her a warm, sympathetic look, smiles*
Daphne *wide-eyed, melts
a little* Sometimes I remember why I went out with you. *kisses him quickly on the cheek, smiles, pops her gum, turns and leaves the tavern*
Malachi *sits back down,
looks up, sees barkeep looking at him, shaking his head. Shrugs almost innocently* I know, I know … like shootin’ fish in a barrel. Couldn’t resist, mate. *barkeep laughs, pours him another
drink*
At Manouche and Blake’s house:
Manouche *opens door, sees
Kat, swallows* Ahh ... c-c'mon in, mate. *holds door open* Mr. Blake, he's writin' ... an' Raven ... he's
over at th' studio, visitin' with yer brother. *brings her into living room* 'Ave a drink, then?
Kat: No drink, thanks. Manouche, I done somethin' today and now
I be wonderin' if it were a mistake. It's about Raven. Ye kept tellin' me that I 'ad to find a way to deal with Abby. Well
today I talked to 'im. The thing is 'es wantin' me to take Raven to live with
me. Now that frightens me a bit, but what's worryin' my mind most at the moment
is what 'e told me last. That ye and 'e wasn't friends anymore and 'e wouldn't
tell me why.
Manouche: He didn’t tell ye why, eh? *pours drink for herself,
comes over, sits on couch next to her.* Before I get into that … how d’ye
feel about ‘avin’ Raven live with ye, mate? That’s a whole
lot more important than any tiff between th’ Inspector an’ meself, innit?
*downs drink in one gulp, lights cigarette with shaky hands, looks at her steadily*
Kat … I want ye t’know that Mr. Blake an' I would never, ever stand in th’ way o’ either
o’ Raven’s parents takin’ an interest in his welfare, savvy? I’ve
always wanted him to ‘ave ye both in his life, as much as either o’ ye wanted.
He’ll always ‘ave a home here, if it’s what’s best fer ‘im. But it’s a home, a room o’ his own, not a prison. An'
I've never once lost sight o' the fact that we ain't his parents. *pauses* I hadn’t had a chance t’ tell ye, but … Mr. Blake told me about
th’ document ye filed on our be’alf fer lil’ mate. It were
flatterin’, to say th’ least, but … I won’t be usin’ it fer any power play, as it were. He loves ye so much … he’s dyin’ t’ spend a bit o’ time
with ye. *looks at her, tears in her eyes, turns away* I reckon I ain’t answerin’ yer question, am I? Ye
always did say I talk too much. *pauses*
Th’ reason I hesitate to speak of it, is … I don’t want t’ bollocks up any chance th’
pair o’ ye ‘ave workin’ together fer Raven’s welfare, savvy?
I don't want to ... what's th' word ... influence ye against 'im. If he's
finally wantin' to show some responsibility toward Raven, that should be encouraged.
I'll -- I'll go so far as to say, th’ Inspector betrayed a trust. I’m ‘avin’ a hard
time copin’ with it, but … I’d like t’ try an’ forgive ‘im. Especially in hopes that Mr. Blake an’ I can keep lil’ Raven in our lives to some extent. *turns to her, the tears fall* P-please,
luv, let Raven come ‘round once in awhile. We love ‘im so much …
*smiles slightly* … an’ he loves us, an’ he loves that bloody river out there. *trembles, watches her anxiously*
Kat: Manouche, Raven will always be as much yers as mine, and I'll not stand for anyone not e'en 'is father gettin'
in the way. I only agreed te this in 'opes of savin' Raven from bein' 'urt eventially
by 'is father. I don't know what te think now. Ye
speak of betrayal, but 'e seemed so sincere in wantin' te be a father te Raven. I
believed 'im. I e'en gave 'im the ammunition te take Raven if 'e chose te. 'e coulda locked me up. I'm sure with
Portsmiths blessin' and took Raven, but 'e didn't.
Manouche *stares at her,
eyes filled with gratitude* B-blimey, Kat, luv, d’ye mean it? Truly? *hugs her tight, then quickly pulls away* Apologies, mate … I know ye don’t like a lot o’ fuss.
But … ye made me so happy, I couldn’t ‘elp meself. When
I think o’ all we been through … I remember th’ first time he saw ye, after we was rescued … how th’
two o’ ye talked an’ talked, an’ he fell asleep in yer arms. *beams
at her, wipes eyes quickly* Raven’s free t’ come live with ye, an’
I think he’d like it very much. He’s been wantin’ to spend
time with ye. Long as he can come back ‘ere an’ visit, that’s
more’n enough fer us. He’s also been spendin’ more time with
Gili, so I think Gili will be pleased t’ hear that he’ll still be about.
*can’t stop smiling* Ahh, but ye were sayin’ somethin’
more about th’ Inspector … *tries to stop beaming, to concentrate on what Kat said* He chose not t’ lock ye up? Well, then, there y’
are. He did commit a betrayal against me, but … I’d like t’
think it were a one-time mistake. It’s jus’ possible, if I can fergive
him fer what he did … an’ if we give ‘im the benefit o’ the doubt where Raven’s concerned …
per’aps he really does want t’ be a good dad at last. Wait’ll
Sergeant Godley hears about this! He’ll be right proud o’ th’
Inspector. Bloody ‘ell, mate, this calls fer a toast. *runs to kitchen, returns with champagne* Now I’m pourin’
ye some, ye don’t ‘ave to overindulge if yer not of a mind, but at least ‘ave a swallow, enough fer a toast. *they hold up their glasses* To la famille
– *smiles at her warmly* – blood or otherwise. *they clink glasses,
drink*
Kat: There still be the problem with Raven not rememberin' 'is father. What I were thinkin' be to 'ave Abby spend time with Raven but not push it that 'es 'is dad. Raven could get te know 'im and trust 'im agin.
Then maybe 'is memory will follow. Ye know my 'ome be not exactly equipped
to suit a child. If Abby be willin', I 'ope the two of 'em can spend time changin'
up a couple of rooms te Ravens wants. Ye think that be a good idea? Or would it be better te wait. So much I be not knowin'.
Manouche *looks at her sympathetically* I know, luv. Apologies … per’aps
someday I’ll tell ye all about it. But fer now, since he’s givin’
indication that he wants t’ change … I think it’s best that we all try t’ work together, fer Raven’s
sake. *thinks a moment* The fact
that th’ Inspector didn’t ‘ave ye arrested, that goes a long way t’ my way o’ thinkin’. Blimey, that’s impressive. Thing
is, Raven’s heard enough talk from us all to know that th’ Inspector’s his dad. But he ain’t seen ‘im yet, an’ he ain’t talked with ‘im. Jus’ knows th’ name, savvy? Here’s an idea
… I’m s’posed t’ meet with th’ Inspector later today at Chez Roux. How ‘bout I discuss all this with ‘im, see how he feels about it? I can tell ‘im how I’ve decided t’ forgive ‘im, an’ that his display o’
trust toward ye has spoke volumes on th’ good sense o’ puttin’ all unpleasantness behind us all an’
movin’ on … all of us workin’ toward what’s best fer Raven.
Might put ‘im more at ease, because … well, he were so certain that I could never fergive ‘im. I think he’ll feel better about all this, knowin’ that I can. How’s that sound t’ ye, mate?
Kat: I suppose that be best. I 'ave someone I 'ave te see, as well. Would ye want te bring Raven o'er te Sparrow Lane
later or should I be pickin' 'im up? *Walks toward door* Either way suits me well 'nuff.
Manouche: We'll be 'appy to bring 'im to ye, luv. Mr. Blake an' I, after
I've seen th' Inspector. Per'aps Gili will come along, as well. He were sayin' he ain't seen ye in some time. *pauses* Who knows, after our talk, per'aps th' Inspector'll want to come, too. *smiles, puts an arm around Kat's shoulders.* I'm almost afraid
t' let meself hope fer it all to be so bright ... but I can't get over th' Inspector not turnin' ye over to Portsmith. Bodes well, to be sure. Right, we'll
see ye later, mate. *gives her a quick hug, opens the door.* If it's yer friend Jerod yer meetin' with, tell 'im I 'ave a few things t' discuss with him sometime regardin'
all he's shown Malachi an' me. I've 'ad an interestin' dream, or vision o' sorts. *pauses, then looks at her* Anyway, whoever
it is, if ye finish up early, come find us at Chez Roux. By th' time ye arrive,
I reckon th' Inspector an' I will 'ave sorted it out, an' it jus' may be a perfect time fer th' three of us t' share a drink
of goodwill, on me. Oh, an' Kat, luv ... *puts hand on her arm as she steps out
the door* Cheers, mate. I know I've
told ye this before, but I'll say it again ... on pain o' death, I swear, ye'll never regret trustin' me with lil' Raven. *smiles*
At From Hell Court:
Loralee *having followed Malachi from his apartment, enters the tavern and
approaches him after Daphne has left* Maurice, my love, I have been looking for
you.
Malachi *glances at her,
looks at barkeep, raises eyebrows* It would seem I’m very popular tonight. *barkeep shrugs. Malachi turns to Loralee* So, we meet again. And the name is Malachi,
not Maurice. So I guess you haven’t been looking for me at all. *takes a drink, shifts his gaze back toward the bar*
Loralee *looks at him confused;
tears fill her eyes; whimpering* But it is you, do not dismiss me ... I did a horrible thing, but it was Danielle's fault, please forgive me.
Malachi *maintains an ease,
but feels a cold premonition inside; remembers the name Danielle. Lights a cigarette,
turns to look at her, stares* I … wait, what did you say? There’s something about you … omigod! … *brings
hand to forehead* It’s all coming back to me … but it’s still
so hazy. *looks at her, his expression intense, he grasps her arms in a firm
caress* I’m having a hard time ... I think I – I think I lost
my memory. Help me, please … please tell me what happened, I can’t
remember, you must help me. What did you do? *strokes her cheek softly
with one hand, gazes into her eyes*
Loralee *gazes at him with
compassion and concern* Lost your memory? How
dreadful! But there is no need to be worried or frightened, I shall take care
of you. *Glances at his glass* You
should not be drinking in such a state, come with me, my love and I shall tell you everything.
Malachi *smiles gratefully
at her* I appreciate your help. But
I’ll finish my drink … it calms my nerves. And maybe we could just
stay here … *nods toward the fireplace at the end of the room* There’s
a nice quiet spot over there. Oh, wait …
*interrupts as he sees someone, holds up his hand. A woman selling flowers
approaches; Malachi digs in his pocket, brings forth some money, buys a few white roses, thanks the woman. She moves away, he puts one of the roses in his lapel, pockets the others, smiles at Loralee* Now, where were we? Oh, yes, you were telling me what you
did. Please tell me … how bad could it be?
Was it a long time ago? And if it’s something you did, how was it
… what’s her name … Danielle’s fault? *looks at Loralee,
his expression earnest. Frowns, his eyes wide as he sees her recoil from the rose* What is it, did I say
something wrong?
Loralee: *eyes the white
rose cautiously* I do not like white roses, I prefer red roses. *Looks
away from his gaze* Yes, it was a long time ago.
I ... *the image of LaCroix lying dead on the ground next to his child enters
her mind* I ... do not have the heart to tell you what happened, I fear it will sadden
you. *Reaches out hand to touch him; feels the presence of the roses and stops
midway, her hand trembling* I will leave you to your drink. I shall see you again soon, my love.
Malachi *watches her go,
sighs after she’s left the tavern. Takes his drink with a slightly shaky
hand, sets glass down, finishes cigarette. Thinks to himself* I better see what Manouche found out from that journal.
At Deppville Hospital:
Abberline
*decides to go home and wait for the papers Daphne was talking about, is about to leave, when calls his name*
Sebastian:
Mr. Abberline! Good that I found
you, Dr. Rainey sent me after you, he said you cancelled the appointment. He
asks you to come to his office.
Abberline: Isn't it clear? I cancelled.
Sebastian: He insists upon seeing you.
I am sorry, but you will have to come with me.
*lays his hand on Abberline's arm, leads him to Dr. Rainey's office*
Dr. Rainey: Thank you Sebastian. *waves him off* Now, Mr. Abberline, the fact is, that you can't cancel the treatment just like that. You have voluntarily agreed upon the treatment schedule.
Abberline: I
don't need it.
Dr. Rainey: That is for me to decide. Now, these blood tests of your show what I was expecting. You
clearly have not steered clear of drugs, just as I suspected. A short detox is
of no use to junk— patients, who, just like you, go on with their bad habits
the moment they are freed from hospital. Commander Portsmith is very insistent
on this point. She wants to take care of her employees. And it means that since you signed the form yourself, there will be no backing off. If you won't come voluntarily, we have to fetch you. *looks
at his papers* I have booked time for you next week.
Abberline: I am not coming, I told you.
Dr. Rainey: *looking at his papers, ignoring his
protests* Though there definitely is something odd with these records of yours.
Tell me, have you had some kinds of … problems with your eyes?
Abberline
*puzzled* Not that I know of.
Dr. Rainey: Mr.
Abberline, I must warn you very seriously. Now I know that for a while you had
these records in your possession, and it seems that someone has been tampering with them. The
only suspect, it seems, is you.
Abberline: Security's lost a brilliant
investigator in you.
Dr. Rainey: I don't appreciate that. It will soon lose another investigator if you don't pull yourself together.
Abberline: I don't know anything about those records. That's your problem.
And I won't come in for any 'treatment'. *leaves,
bangs the door after him; Dr. Rainey catches 'The Corn Goddess' just in time before the painting hits the floor*
At Daphne’s apartment:
Daphne *leaves From Hell Court, heads home. Puts key in lock of apartment door, opens door, gasps, shocked. Her apartment has been completely ransacked, torn apart. She enters slowly, fearing the intruders may still be there; listens carefully, hears nothing, finally
decides it’s safe. She goes through the rooms, picking up things here and
there, setting things right as she goes along, trying to figure out what’s missing.
Sees that some entertainment equipment is gone, as are some pieces of silver from the buffet in the dining room, silver
that had belonged to her grandmother. Goes in bedroom, where dresser drawers
have been turned upside down and dumped out. Feels disappointment that $200 she
had placed in the top drawer has also been taken. Checks her jewelry, opens the
box to put the antique earrings away. Eyes widen as she sees that the necklace
and engagement ring are missing, along with some other fairly valuable pieces she’d acquired from previous admirers. She puts the earrings away, looks around room once more, shaking her head. She starts back through to the front of the apartment, stops short as she passes the cabinet where she’d
kept Abberline’s file papers. She brings a hand to her mouth as she sees
it’s been broken open, the papers gone. She swears, then quickly looks
around, as if she’s afraid she’s being watched; still sees and hears no one.
She thinks for a moment, then returns to bedroom; digs around in closet, which is in disarray. Finds slinky,
skin-tight short slip she just bought; takes it into bathroom, undresses, slips it on, nods satisfied at her reflection in
the mirror. Slips on shoes, returns to living room, puts on nothing else except
her coat. Looks around the room one more time, sighs, leaves apartment, locks
door; heads to Bournemouth House … unaware that she’s being watched by a man in the driver’s seat of a midnight-blue
antique hearse with tinted windows.*
(Note: I figured we could use a different vehicle other than the standard
dark sedan!)
At Bournemouth House:
Abberline *spreads the hospital
records on the kitchen table, starts to read, with knitted brows, hoping that Daphne didn't take a peek at them, hears the
door opening, wraps the papers in the folder and goes to meet Daphne* Did you
bring the papers, they are very important to me, I really ...* helps the coat off her, his voice trails off as he sees her
in the slip* ... don't need them now ... *runs his hand on the fabric of the slip* I
should arrest you for indecent behaviour ...
Daphne *smiles at him, moves
closer to him* Guilty as charged. *glances
around, then looks back at him, slides her arms around his neck* If your friend
Mr. Geddy isn’t here, I have an idea … while I was at work, I kept thinking about how I would model this new slip
for you … *presses closer, whispers* … and then I got thinking about that chandelier in the formal dining room
…
Abberline: I am intrigued … tell me more. Don't worry about Godley. *takes her in his arms, carries her to the dining room*
*A little while later, Abberline
and Daphne lie on the thick carpeting in the formal dining room, wrapped in a large comforter he brought from the drawing
room. The chandelier is ... hanging somewhat askew ... *
Daphne *running fingers through
his hair, smiles contentedly* Well, that was pretty much what I had in mind. *pauses, thinks about what Malachi said, positions herself so she can look into Abberline's
eyes* Y'know ... Freddie ... I keep thinking, you really need to not be so afraid
of your feelings. *puts her hand to his chin when he frowns and looks away; pulls
him back to look at her* No, seriously, don't turn away ... I want to help you,
but I can't unless you're willing to open up to me. I want to help you ... help
you stop hurting over Manouche ... *kisses him*
Abberline *sighs* Manouche? Oh, Manouche, I forgot ... *stops himself in time, not wanting her to know anything about the meeting* Daphne
dear, you are mistaken. There's nothing special in her, she just was somebody
I knew. It's nothing. It's gone.
I don't ask you about your past, and there is nothing of importance in mine.
I'd rather concentrate on the present ... It is not talking I want to do with
you.
Daphne: Believe me, Freddie, I don’t care about someone’s past.
We all have people in our pasts, it’s nobody’s business. The
only reason I ask about her is because you seem to be in such pain over her. Sure,
you don’t ask about my past … I’m not talking about it in my sleep, I don’t have pictures on the walls
of someone I still hurt over. *kisses him again*
Well, let’s drop it for now. Shall I get us some drinks?
Abberline: No, I don't have time for drinks now. I have to attend a meeting. *smiles at her* Actually, I am late,
you made me forget it. I have to go. Will
you be waiting for me? I don't think it’ll take much time. *looks at her, slides his hand on the slip* I really don't
want to talk about her, but you can take down the pictures. *gives her a kiss
on the neck, rises up* Wait for me, Daphne.
Daphne *smiles* I'll wait right here. I'll have a drink ready for you when
you get back. *lies back, cushioned by part of the comforter, gazes at him*
Abberline *looks at her for
long, but manages to turn away with regret* I would rather more be here with
you. *goes to the bedroom, gets dressed, leaves for Chez Roux, knowing that he's
probably late*
At Chez Roux:
Manouche *running late, has
just arrived, takes a booth. Orders drink, sees Abberline enter, waves* Over ‘ere, Inspector. *watches
him carefully as he sits across from her* So then, ye wanted t’ talk. I’m glad, because … I’d like t’ talk, as well …
Abberline *not looking at
her lights a cigarette, orders himself a drink* Yes, we have some things to clear
up. I won't bother you after this. How
is Raven? It's him I want to talk about, but ... there's something else, too
...
Manouche: Raven? Right as rain, he’s fine. He’s visitin’ his uncle Gili this afternoon. *feels
a fear growing, but pushes it away, thinking how glad he’ll be when he hears what she has to say* Go ahead, tell me what’s on yer mind. An’ then
… I ‘ave a few things t’ say to you … things I ... I hope ye'll be glad to hear ...
Abberline *starts very slowly* Glad? I doubt it. What I have to say to you, Manouche … *looks for the first time her straight in the eyes, keeps her
gaze* I don't know where to start ... It's better that you and me don't meet
any more. You know why.
Manouche *startled, looks
down for a moment, takes a sip of her drink, thinks it over, looks back up at him* Well
… if ye ain’t willin’ to try … I reckon I can understand why it’d be hard fer ye … ‘cept
… well, this is ironic, this is. I were wantin’ to tell ye -- an'
this is what I thought ye'd be glad t' hear -- I wanted t' tell ye that I thought we could get past all this. I
still think we could, fer lil’ mate’s sake. Don’t ye even
want to try? *looks at him anxiously*
Abberline: You believe that we could get past all just like that. I can't. I know I don't have a chance to be anything for you, even if that – that kidnapping
never happened. There can't ever be any friendship between us. Even if you could forgive me, we could never return to what was before.
Before I became a – a backstabber, as you expressed it, the only thing you cared about me, is that I am Raven's
father. Is that all that I am to you? A
miserable loser to be pitied by Holy Manouche, the patron saint of misfits. You
were just playing with me, all because of Raven, to get him yourself, you tried all your Gypsy charms on me, and I don't doubt
for a moment that you knew what you were doing to me when you held my hand, or hugged me … You wanted me to become attached to you, to fall for you. That's
what it all was ever about. I trusted you.
Kat *Having
heard all about Abberline’s betrayal from Gili, stands nearby, unnoticed, listening to Abberline’s tirade. She starts to reach for her sword but stops short, clenching her fist in anger.* Now I understand what this was all about. Ye'd
use anyone to get yer revenge, e'en yer own son, and I'm bein' the fool te 'ave listened te ye. *Turns away, furious*
Manouche *barely hears Kat
come and go, or what she says, so thunderstruck is she by Abberline's horrible words. She stares at him, wide-eyed,
not sure she’s hearing right. His words sink in, and she feels a hurt much
like what she felt when she watched the clip of his betrayal. She looks around
the room, as if she’s not sure where to cast her eyes … everything around her seems to go monochrome. She looks at him again, sees the remote coldness of the usually handsome brown eyes; she feels her breath
shortening, and she sends all the air out of her lungs with something between a sigh and a sob. She looks down at her hands in her lap, determined not to let him see tears as she realizes everything
she’d hoped for would never be, there would be no toasts shared by herself, Kat and Abberline; there would be no warmth
of the three of them working together to give the boy everything he deserved; the stranger across the booth no doubt planned
to cut her out of Raven’s life entirely, and except for Kat’s intervention and help from other Deppville citizens,
he quite possibly would get his way. She thought of her innocent hugs, how she’d
held his hand from sheer concern when he lay sick in bed. She would have to tell
Blake … there was no way around it now. Then, just when she’s sure
she’s about to break down into convulsive sobs, she feels an inner strength … hears Alifi’s words in her
mind, myriad things she told her, little encouragements … and she feels her spine stiffen. She draws herself up, sitting very straight, gazes at Abberline, any and all dignity in her being coming
forth. Her eyes still on him, she calmly picks up her glass, hand completely
steady, takes a drink; swallows, speaks in low, quiet voice* By th’ powers
… Malachi were right. You poor, misguided, miserable, irresponsible, ignorant
sod. You sad, pathetic man. I don’t
believe I’ve ever felt so sorry fer someone in me entire life. *takes glass
again, finishes drink smoothly, sets it down gently. Pulls out some money, places
it on the table, rises to leave. She stands by the table for a moment, then reaches
into her coat, pulls out a bulky envelope, throws it down onto the table in front of him*
There y’are, Inspector. I weren’t sure if I should tell ye
where they come from, but now I reckon I will. I stole ‘em from Daphne’s
apartment, a few days ago. Aye, Daphne, th’ one you hold in such high regard
over us disgustin’, morally bankrupt pirates. Don’t look so surprised. Ye think once I learned from Malachi that ye were keepin’ company with ‘er,
that I didn’t start payin’ attention to what might be goin’ on? ‘Specially
since I been wonderin’ what that treatment is all about. I ‘aven’t
liked th’ sound o’ that treatment since day one. An’ despite
th’ hurt ye caused me, I … I couldn’t stop meself from doin’ a bit o’ investigatin’ of
me own, to see whether an injustice were bein’ done. *pauses, points at
envelope* Daphne took these from th’ hospital, an’ she were keepin’
‘em from ye. Why, I ‘ave no idea.
I don’t know her agenda, an’ I don’t give a toss, especially now.
Th’ pair o’ ye can rot in each others’ arms, fer all I care.
Oh, an’ there’s also this … *reaches in another pocket, pulls out Victoria’s antique engagement
ring, sets it on table next to the envelope* Somehow, I don’t believe ye
intended ‘er to ‘ave this. An’ don’t be askin’
how I knew about these things! Ye bloody well know how I knew. *eyes fill with tears, she forces them back with all her might* I
jus’ … knew. Dreamer. *glares
at him, turns abruptly, storms out of Chez Roux.*
*She gets outside and walks
around the building, to the restaurant’s outdoor eating area that faces the beach and the harbor. She drops into a chair and gazes out at the water, waiting for her hurt feelings to cool off before starting
for home. As she calms down, she starts to appreciate the pretty view, and looks
around, surprised that there are no customers taking advantage of the pleasing surroundings.
Takes deep breath, stands up to leave, then falls back into chair, smacks her forehead angrily* Oh, bloody buggary bollocks. *Remembers that she forgot to
remove the letter she’d written for Abberline, one she wrote and had placed in the envelope earlier, when she was planning
to give him the papers before he called their little meeting. She debates whether
she should go in and take the envelope, remove the letter and throw the rest back at him; she finally decides to let it go,
she simply cannot face him again. She miserably thinks about the letter, remembers
what it says … written when she was in an entirely different frame of mind … *
Inspector,
It doesn’t matter
how I came upon these papers. One word:
pirate. You need to see them. You
need to be aware of how you’re being used, how they plan to continue to use you, how it may very well threaten your
life. Commander Portsmith and Dr. Rainey are not to be trusted—as you will
see once you read the info contained herein.
Inspector, I forgive
you. I reckon that would be hard for many to believe if they knew the whole story. Kidd would no doubt dismiss me from her employ, and Malachi probably would have me
committed. But I have final say on what motivates my heart and soul. No one else holds sway over that. I also believe I owe no
explanation to anyone; but I’m willing to share with you how I was finally able to arrive at this.
One, I still see the
good man behind the dodgy choices, the self-medication, the painful memories. I
watch Raven and I see so much of you in him. I see you and Kat both … and
when I see the beautiful boy who resulted from that union … it goes a long way in overruling my anger.
Two, I have only so much
room in my heart for maintaining unyielding hate—that space is quite taken up by the men who killed my brother. When I think of them, to this day I’m filled with a murderous rage. And ironically, this is ultimately what made me realize I can forgive you.
I was reminded that we have the same enemy, you and I – the despicable men of the Order, who murdered my brother
and your Victoria (and of course poor Malachi’s sister).
Then they conspired to pit us against each other. It’s hard to know
what to say or do in the face of such calculated evil and cruelty. So when I
thought of it that way … and thought how it would’ve been if they had approached me, asking me to hand you over
in exchange for the chance to avenge my brother’s death … I must confess, although I feel quite certain I wouldn’t
have agreed to it, I can understand how great that temptation must have been for you.
Besides, your thinking has been skewed by years of chasing the dragon. How
different your answer might have been, had you been in your proper frame of mind.
Last but not least, my
time here in Deppville may be drawing to an end fairly soon. I’m not sure
yet if that’s definite; I still hope to turn my fortune around. But if
I cannot, then I don’t wish to spend the remainder of my time here with bitterness or ill feelings. Therefore, as long as Raven is in our care, you are welcome to our house, you are welcome to see him whenever
you want. I will do anything I can to help him remember his dad. If I can help remove this burden of guilt from your conscience—leaving you better able to be a good
father to Raven, and to do what you do so well, your investigative work to perhaps bring cruel, manipulative people to justice
someday—then I’m satisfied. And then, if need be, I can be brave
and do what I must do for the safety of my friends. I forgive you, Fred Abberline,
with a free and open heart; may you be able to do as much for yourself.
Manouche
*Meanwhile, on the
street across from Daphne’s apartment*
Man *sitting in driver’s
seat of old hearse, speaks on cell phone* Yes, we trashed it. Believe me, we looked everywhere. You know me, would I miss
those papers if they were there? I’m no rookie, you know. What? … No, just an empty folder. So it looks like she had ‘em, but they’re gone now. How
would I know? I don’t think so … well, we thought she lives alone,
but we did see one other person come and go from her place, another gal. Yeah,
that’s right … few days ago … when we were watchin’. *smirks* Okay, when we were casin’ the joint! Damn,
you’d have us all talkin’ like a pulp fiction novel if you could. I
guess you want a nickname, now, like Spike, or Fingahs … What? Sure, we’ll
keep watchin’ if you want, I don’t know how much good it’ll do, the papers are gone. But if that’s how you want to spend your money on my services, that’s okay with ….. What’s that? Damn it, lousy connection
… oh, the other person. No, she’s not a nurse. She’s … well, you’re gonna laugh, but I think she’s a pirate. Fine, don’t believe me! But I’ve seen quite a
few of ‘em around here. Huh?? Louder,
I can’t hear you – what’d you … ?? *Holds phone away,
glares at it, scowling. Swears, snaps it shut, throws it into back seat, disgusted. Lights remainder of cigar, keeps watching Daphne’s apartment*
At Chez Roux:
Abberline
*reads the letter, doesn't take another look at the papers, sits for a while stunned, then he shoves aside the untouched drink,
gets up and walks out, sees Manouche. He hesitates for a while but decides that
he's got to try to get her listen* Listen, Manouche, I started it all wrong.
I admit I was trying to get Raven, I was going to try to get the guardianship
with Kat, because I wanted to ... I just knew that ... I had to cut you out of my life.
But when I saw you, I realized that I can't do that. And since there is
no way we could take care of him together, I give him up. I give him to you,
to you and your Blake. I won't use the paper I got from Kat, I won't try to get
the guardianship ... and I leave this place for good. Manouche, why does it always
turn so wrong? I just end up hurting you and everybody else ... I don't want
to hurt you, but I felt ... I felt hurt myself ... I am selfish and tried to save myself from you, I've been trying to forget
you with her, but it doesn't work. I've become what I tried so hard to avoid
... Manouche, you don't want to hear it, but I do love you, I love you, but I only manage to hurt you more and more.
That's why I wanted to ... there's no hope for me ... I tried to ... I am a bloody
fool, Manouche. I should not have asked you to come, but I will leave you now.
I won't take Raven from you. I am
not going to disturb you again. Bloody hell, I can't talk, I'll just make everything
worse.
Manouche *sits quietly for
a long time after he’s finished talking. Listens to the water softly lapping up to the shore. Keeps her
eyes focused on the horizon, doesn’t look at him* So … now he loves me again. Now th’ softness
has come back into his voice … now he’ll gallantly offer t’ remove himself from th’ scene, like a
guest at a party who’s stayed too long an’ drank too much, an’ busted up th’ host’s furniture.
Now it’s all apologies, an’ he says he don’t deserve t’ be forgiven, but we all know he hopes he will
be, ‘cause his intentions were good. No worries, he’ll pay fer whatever got broken, he’s good fer
it. But th’ replacements are never quite as good as th’ originals, are they? *keeps her eyes on the
water* Ye don’t even know me, how can ye speak of love? If ye knew me, ye’d know that yer takin’
guardianship fer Raven would never hurt me. I’ve always wanted t’ see ‘im with his parents, much as
Mr. Blake an’ me love ‘avin’ him. If ye knew me, ye’d know … ahh, never mind. I’m
done with me long, long talks to ye, fer all th’ good they do. To think I even defended ye to Malachi, an’
even to me great friend Kat. Blimey, how I used t’ bend her ear on yer behalf. Even earlier today, I was
… *pauses, shakes head, pulls out cigarettes, lights one; turns to look at him* So ye come t’ the patron
saint for fergiveness? Sure, I fergive ye, if that makes ye feel better. Me question is, what’re ye goin’
to do about it all? What’re y’ goin’ to do different? How long ye gonna keep blamin’ yer
behavior on yer horrible past, or on yer substance abuse, or on whatever bloody convenient flavor o’ the week presents
itself? These ain’t questions ye can answer right away. Jus’ somethin’ fer ye to think about,
if yer of a mind. Or ye can continue as ye 'ave been ... runnin’ in yer current circle, chasin’ yer
tail. It really don’t matter to me what ye do from here on out, ‘cause I’m done with ye. I reckon
this is th’ part where I say, “Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn.” *grins slightly, the smile
not reaching her eyes. She stands up, puts out the cigarette in an ashtray on the table, brushes off her coat*
An’ now, I’m goin’ to see if I can catch up to Kat. Me mate’s a blighter when she’s been
proven right, always makes me buy th’ drinks … aye, loves t’ rub it in, that'un. I’ve run up
quite th’ tab with Marijke as a result, ‘cause Kat is right most times. So I may as well stand an’
face it, get it over with. I’m lookin’ forward to it, actually. I could use a good drunk with a mate.
Cheers. *turns, walks away*
Abberline *not trying to
follow her, slumps down in a chair, forgetting his cigarette, stares out at the port* So
that was it. The end of it all. *mechanically
takes the folder that Manouche brought, slowly gets up and goes to From Hell Court, into his favourite den, completely forgetting
Daphne, who's waiting for him, goes to the owner* I want something more effective,
anything, as long as it works fast.
Owner: Sure. We have anything to blow your brains out.
Abberline: Good.
*hands him a bunch of bills, not caring to count them*
Kidd *Stands watching him*
That be yer answer for e'erything, don't it? Deaden
yer mind. Deaden any feelin's. Ne'er
mind the pain ye cause along the way. Stupid blighter, what ye feel or don't
feel as the case may be is all we 'ave to 'old on to, and ye throw it away. Yer
the sorriest excuse for a man I e'er saw.
Abberline
*After a very short while, after trying to lie down and wait for the calming effect, he just feels his heart is beginning
to race wild, he gets up so fast that he's near to fainting; feeling himself suffocate in the smoky den, he goes out again
with unsteady steps. Not noticing Kidd, walks past a few steps, leans against
the wall and fumbles for his cigarette box; unable to find it, drops the folder Manouche gave him, and curses*
At Bournemouth House:
Daphne *having fallen asleep
for hours waiting for Abberline to return; wakes up, discovers he’s still not home.
Finds her coat, puts it on over her slip, steps into her shoes. Goes to
living room, looks at pictures of Victoria for a few minutes. Remembers what
he said, takes them down, puts them with the framed picture from the shelf; stacks them together and sets them face down on
the shelf. Fishes notepaper and pen from her bag, writes a brief note to him. Thinks for a minute, smiles to herself; takes lipstick out of her bag, swipes on a
thin layer. Takes note, presses her lips to it in a kiss; folds it, writes “Freddie”
on the front of it, sets it on the shelf next to the pictures. Walks through
room to front door, leaves the house, returns to her apartment, looks around at the mess, makes mental note to tell Abberline
about the theft, see if he can step up the police force to do something about it. She
wonders whether she should tell him about the files. Now that they’ve been
stolen anyway, perhaps it’s best he doesn’t know she was withholding them; she decides it would serve no purpose. Tosses her bag down, takes her coat off, goes into bedroom to prepare for her shift
at the hospital*
*Outside … man in the
old hearse watched as she entered her building, continues to observe … *
At Deppville Hospital:
Dr. Rainey *looks after his
research papers, can't find them where they should be, opens the door and yells* Sebastian!
Sebastian
*hurrying along the corridor* Yes, Dr. Rainey, what's the matter?
Dr.
Rainey *waiting for him to come in, closes the door* Where did you put the results
from the research? I am unable to locate them.
Sebastian: Why, they are in the file cabinet, of course. *goes to retrieve
them, doesn't find any, after a thorough search* I can't find them.
Dr.
Rainey: Take immediately copies from the files in the vault. I need them. *Sebastian leaves, Dr. Rainey makes a call* Yes,
Commander, it is me … No, the research is going well. I regret to say that
there were more fatalities. Yes, three ... No, I know, I adjusted the ingredients,
but there still seem to be some slight problems. Yes, to me, three patients with
fatal complications is a small problem ... Mr. Abberline was here, he was trying
to back off the treatment once more … Yes, please, do it, thank you, I knew I could trust you. *puts down the receiver, sits down to think where the secret papers could have disappeared. He has backups, but now someone else knows of the new drug experiment. He
decides to do some investigations of his own before admitting the theft to the Commander. And
the loss of six more patients ...*
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