At the Hospital:

One of the ambulance men *to receptionist Andrew*  A case of heart-attack, call a doctor to the emergency room!   Tell the nurse to bring the defibrillator in case it is needed.  *they rush off with Abberline*

Receptionist Andrew *stops Manouche*  You can't go in there.  Just let them do their work, he's going to be well.  *hands her a form*  Fill in this, please.  Are you the next of kin?  *offers her a cup of coffee*  You take this and calm down.  Say, have I seen you before?

Manouche *tries to control her shaking hands, takes the form, looks at it*  Ahh, I’m not sure what t’ fill in ‘ere, mate.  He’s on file, Mr. Frederick Abberline.  *suddenly remembers the hospital isn’t the safest place for her to be.  She glances at Andrew, decides to take a chance that he’ll “remember” her.  Clears her throat, steadies her voice*  As a matter of fact, you have seen me before.  Andrew, is it?  I’m Dr. Rainey, I was consulting on Mr. Abberline’s case some time ago.  *holds her hand out to shake, smiles confidently.  Sees him looking at her clothes; she laughs*  Ahh, no wonder y’ don’t recognize me.  I was on my way to a costume party.  Pirate.  Savvy?  *grins, Andrew laughs a little uncertainly.  She leans in closer*  Mr. Abberline is accustomed to me attending ‘im, so … do you suppose y’could fetch me a coat and mask, an’ get me inside?  I think … he would rest easier knowing I’m there.  Don’t bother if it’s too much trouble.  I’ll fill out the form and wait right here, like anyone else.  It’s just that … seems daft, me sittin’ out here when I could be of some assist inside.

Andrew *still uncertain but more and more convinced of her tone*  Yes, Dr. Rainey, but they seem to have already got hold of one doctor …  *she gives a stare which somehow reminds him of Commander Portsmith and puts him into action*  I will get you a coat immediately.  *bolts of and return soon*  Here you are, Dr, Rainey, your own coat and mask and your equipment.  *shows her the name label*  I can take care of alerting the next of kin.  It was very fortunate for him that you happened on the place and came here with the ambulance, I hear the situation is critical.

Manouche *puts on coat, pauses at his words, swallows; buttons up coat, looks at him*  Cheers, mate … er, thank you very much, Andrew.  Please contact Sergeant Godley, tell him it's an emergency and to come right away.  His contact information is in Mr. Abberline's file.  No worries, I’ll be sure you don’t get in trouble for this.  All for th’ patient’s good, right?  *nods, smiles, heads through to the emergency room.  Pauses outside the door, adjusts mask to hide her face, finds cap and stethoscope in coat pockets.  Does her best to tuck her unruly hair into the cap, slings the stethoscope around her neck.  Takes deep breath, enters the ER.*

Andrew *finds the Abberline files, where he finds Sergeant Godley listed as the one who to contact, then he notes the file on Kat Abberline, with Fred Abberline listed as her husband, scratches his head and decides to contact both of them.  He phones first Bournemouth House but gets no answer, he leaves a message on the answering machine for Mrs. Abberline to immediately contact the hospital, then he phones Sergeant Godley, and to his relief he answers the phone, Andrew tells what Dr. Rainey told him.  Then he makes a third call*  Sebastian, are you still there!  Watch out, Dr. Rainey is in, she is now in the emergency room, but she might any minute come to her own office.  Hide the tape, we can't afford to lose it.  *grins as he puts down the phone*

Sebastian *with a sigh stops the tape and stuffs it into his pocket, leaves the room and makes a call on Dr. Rainey's phone*  Commander? ... Yes, it's Sebastian ... Yes, I have thought of the profits ... No, no news of him …  *holds the receiver a little farther when Portsmith at the other end raises her voice and calls him an incompetent bastard*  I am sorry, Commander, I will do my best ... I got to tell .. yes, of course, but she is ... I will, Commander, I understand ... I have news ab...  *finally gets fed up and yells*  DR. RAINEY IS HERE. ANDREW SAW HER!  *the other end goes quiet for a while, Sebastian grins*  Thank you, Commander. It is always a pleasure to serve you.  *puts down the phone muttering something unintelligible and goes to the reception to wait for Commander Portsmith*

Manouche *later, steps outside the rear entrance of the hospital, the emergency entrance where the ambulance had brought them earlier; removes mask and cap, runs hand through her hair, slumps down exhausted on a bench, lights a cigarette.  She knows she was the only one in the ER who understands what happened … before anything could be done, Abberline’s condition turned around completely, and he was resting easy.  She knew the healer daughter had intervened, she’s getting to where she can feel the child’s presence.  She wonders if this is going to strengthen with time, and she wonders why she has such a connection with her.  She shrugs; perhaps it’s simply the dreamer/Romani combination.  Alifi certainly never stopped stressing how powerful that is.  She smokes, trying to pin down an intensely uneasy feeling that’s been stealing over her for quite some time … what happened to Blake and Godley?  She’s not sure what to do … *

*A movement overhead catches her eye.  She watches, sees the white raven coming toward her, smiles with great relief as Raven swoops down, changes into his shape, runs to her*  Ahh, lil’ mate!  *she hugs him tightly*

Raven:  It’s Father, isn’t it?  Is … is he going to be all right?

Manouche *nods*  He’s outta danger, luv, I promise ye.  He’s restin’.  *she kisses the top of his head, then holds him back, looks at him*  Yer dad needs his family ‘round him right now.  Did ye find yer mum?

Raven *shakes his head*  I don’t know if she was on The Apparition or not.  She wouldn’t answer me, an’ the cabin was locked.

Manouche:  Aye … right, well, then it’s up to you, innit?  First-born son.  *nods toward hospital*  Let’s get ye in there, ye can stay with yer dad, savvy?  I … I ‘ave somethin’ I need to do …

Raven:  I know.  There’s … something wrong … *his eyes widen*  Manouche, don’t go back in there.

Manouche *frowns*  What, back in th’ hospital?  *grins*  No worries, I ‘ave me disguise, savvy?

Raven *insistent*  Just don’t.  I’ll go to Father … I know what to do.  You need to leave, NOW.  Go the back way, don’t go around to the front.

Manouche *looks at him quickly; she stands up, drops her cigarette to the ground, crushes it under her shoe*  Right.  *pulls paper and pen from the pocket of the coat, writes down a number, gives Raven the page*  ‘Ere, this is yer dad’s room number an’ floor.  Hurry in there, he needs ye, he’ll be glad to see ye.  When he comes out of it, he may not remember I were even there.  If he doesn’t, don’t mention me.  If he does, tell ‘im I’ll come back when I can, but that he’ll be sound, all right?  Tell ‘im I’ll send Godley along, an’ … an’ I’ll try t’ find Kat, as well.  Tell him his healer daughter saved his life, an’ that if he don’t take care of himself, he’s gonna hurt her.  Remind him o’ that, it’s very important.  Can ye remember all that, lil’ mate?  *Raven nods vigorously, she smiles.  She kisses him, he runs around to the front of the hospital.  Manouche removes the coat, wraps the stethoscope into the pocket, rolls the coat up and sets it on the bench.  She leaves the hospital, heading into the woods, far from the front entrance and the main street.  She heads back toward town, determined to find her Mr. Blake*

In the hospital:

Andrew *to Sebastian*  You got the tape?

Sebastian:  Yea.  *worried*  Where did she go?

Andrew:  Why, to the emergency room of course.

Sebastian *goes to the ER, returns soon*  Blasted, she's got to be a real doctor after all.  They said he recovered amazingly fast from an almost fatal cardiac arrest.  *shakes his head*  Commander Portsmith must be wrong about her.

Andrew *suddenly scared*  Watch out, she comes!  Nice to see you, Commander!

Portsmith *ignores Andrew*  Where is she?

Sebastian:  Err ... she wasn't in the ER anymore, I suppose she is at the patient's room.  I'll give you Mr. Abberline's room number.

Portsmith:  Thanks.  *snatches the paper*  You “suppose”?  You don't know?  *looks at him sharply*  Watch out if I don't catch her there ...  Wait a minute, Abberline you said?  What's he done?

Sebastian and Andrew *look at each other sheepishly*  You'd better ask Dr. Rainey, Commander.  *both sigh as she leaves*

In Abberline’s room:

Commander Portsmith *enters the room, walks to the bed and looks at Abberline who's heavily drugged, takes a look at the beeping heart monitor that seems to be steady, and because there are no spectators around she turns to him with real concern and fright in her eyes*  What have you done to yourself! *touches briefly his hand, turns abruptly and goes out to find a nurse, forgetting Dr. Rainey completely*

On The Apparition:

Manouche *after leaving hospital, makes her way back to the harbor.  Boards The Apparition, approaches cabin door, knocks*  Kat?  Ye in there, mate?  C’mon, talk t’ me.  I been t’ yer house, nobody there … but I knew I were wastin’ me time, ‘cause I know this is where ye love t’ be most.  *waits, listens carefully, hears nothing; sighs*  Right … if yer there an’ don’t want t’ talk to me, so be it.  But I come t’ tell ye somethin’ important.  Th’ Inspector’s in th’ hospital.  Raven’s with him, too.  But … he … he needs ye, mate, he thinks yer done with ‘im.  Now I know ye pretty bloody well, an’ I don’t believe such is th’ case.  So how ‘bout puttin’ aside some o’ that pride o’ yers, an’ get yerself down to th’ hospital an’ take care o’ yer husband?  That child yer carryin’ … she’s … blimey, she’s extraordinary, mate … *eyes fill with tears, she blinks them away*  Th’ pair o’ ye don’t know how lucky ye are, ‘avin’ two such beautiful an’ remarkable children between ye.  Chiana, she … she’s communicatin’ with me some.  I don’t know why … it’s all good, luv, she’s a shiny an’ beautiful lil’ soul, as her name would indicate.  Ye named ‘er well.  *smiles, wipes tears away, pauses; still no sound from the cabin.  She sighs, wishes she could pick up on something from Chiana, indicating her whereabouts.  Maybe Kat isn’t in there after all.  She takes a pad of paper and pen from her coat, writes a quick note about Abberline being in the hospital, could she come right away.  Folds the note, slides it under the door.  Listens for another moment, still hears nothing; she turns, leaves the ship, decides to check Godley’s house one more time before returning to the factory.  Tries to stifle the growing panic she's feeling, worrying about Blake.  Thinks to herself*  He's sound, he's with Sergeant Godley ... we jus' keep missin' each other, that's all.  Completely daft, we are, chasin' our tails all over Deppville, like a bad game o' hide an' seek.  We'll all 'ave a bloody good laugh about it over drinks later ...

At the Hospital:

Sergeant Godley *arrives at the hospital panting, out of breath*  Where is he?

Andrew *looks at him with suspicion*  And who might you yourself be?

Godley:  Son, aren't you as daft as all the personnel in this bloody building someone has the nerve to call a hospital.  You yourself told me to come.  *plunks down his Security Office ID on the reception desk*  Where is he?

Andrew *smiling happily*  Oh, you mean Mr. Abberline.  No worries, Sergeant Godley!  The Commander is already with him.

Sebastian:  She rushed immediately here when she heard about Mr. Abberline.  Very concerned, she was.

Godley:  You bloody idiot, you let her into his room?  Give me the number, son, now, or you'll find the Commander being extremely concerned about you.  Maybe she'll even buy nice flowers for your funeral.

Sebastian:  The Commander expressed her desire to take care of this case.

Godley:  One more last time, boy. I warn you.  You call him once again a case and ...

Andrew *hurriedly gives the room number, Godley leaves fuming, and Andrew looks after him, frowning*  Did I do right?

Sebastian:  You told me you called himself here, you moron.  And Commander will be so pleased at us both for catching the false Dr. Rainey, she’ll forget we let this Godley in.  Maybe we get a raise, brother.

In Abberline’s room:

Raven *having made his way through the hospital, walking briskly and purposefully so he would attract little notice, finds his father's room, enters, closes door behind him.  He sees Abberline in the bed, either sleeping heavily or knocked out, he's not sure which.  He starts to approach him, then he hears voices, footsteps coming.  He glances around the room anxiously, sees a large cabinet; manages to barely squeeze in, shuts door.  He shifts into white raven, to give himself more room.  Listens carefully*

On The Apparition:

Kat *Wakes on the floor of her cabin with no idea of how she came to be there.  Shivers with cold.  Gets to her feet, decides she needs some fresh air.  As she reaches to open the door she sees a piece of paper on the floor and retrieves and reads it.*  Hospital?  Abby?  *Flings the door open and rushes to the hospital. 

At the Wonkas’ factory:

Manouche *returns to the factory with a heavy heart.  She’s been all over town, and couldn’t find Blake anywhere.  She hangs onto a thread of hope with the fact that she also never found Godley; she hopes they’re together somewhere, and that somehow they all managed to just keep missing each other.  She remembers that Andrew the receptionist at the hospital was supposed to have contacted Godley to have him come to the hospital for Abberline; she figures he must be there by now, and Blake may very well be with him.  But she doesn’t dare go back.  She knows Raven well enough to know that when his warning is as strident as the one he just gave her, it’s wise to take it very seriously.  She lets herself into the factory, closes door, turns to see Willy; jumps slightly*  Oh, blimey!  Willy, luv, ye gave me a start.  *she looks at him, her eyes fill with tears*  Brother, I’m so worried …

Willy *worried look in his eyes, turns to seriousness.  His eyes are a dark purple now.*  Manouche, you left suddenly, you worried me to death.  Where have you.... *sees the tears begin to fall, walks over, hugs her tight*  I'm here now.  What wrong sis? What's going on?

Manouche *leans against him*  I’m so bloody tired … an’ I’m so worried about Mr. Blake.  I can’t find ‘im anywhere.  He went t’ fetch Sergeant Godley … it’s a long story.  *looks up at Willy, eyes moist*  Willy, luv, would ye do somethin’ fer me?  I ‘ave reason t’ believe Mr. Blake is at th’ hospital, with Sergeant Godley.  Th’ Inspector’s there, he were admitted earlier … I’m hopin’ they’re there seein' after him, but I can’t go there meself.  Well … ye remember when I were playin’ doctor there awhile back, as it were … *smiles slightly*  It’s dangerous fer me t’ go there now, Portsmith may be about.  Plus th’ fact that I’m near dead on me feet at th’ moment.  If ye’d be so kind as t’ go, see if he’s there … I think I’d like t’ go to me room an’ ‘ave a nice soak in a hot bath.  Would ye go fer me, please, mate?

Willy *smoothes her hair back, nods*  It's alright, I'll go and find him.  Portsmith won't be getting to me any time soon.  Go upstairs and relax, if you want, you and Madame can have a spa treatment arranged.  *lifts her chin up, gives her an assuring look*  He's gonna be fine, sis.  I promise. *smiles, then lets go, gets his coat and top hat, heads out the door immediately to the hospital*

Manouche *watches him go, smiling, whispers*  B-bless ye, mate.  *she turns, slowly climbs the stairs.  She peeks into the nursery, sees Madame asleep in the rocking chair, holding Chase, who’s also asleep.  She smiles at the gentle picture, quietly leaves, closes door softly.  She continues on to her suite, enters, and despite her concerns about Blake, she feels comforted by the pretty surroundings, the knowledge that no matter what, Willy and Madame created this little haven just for her and would always keep it for her.  She brushes away a tear at the thought, decides to run a bath.  After that, she’ll see if Madame’s awake, maybe they can have some dinner together.  But first, a drink.  She steps over to the small buffet, where several bottles stand, pours herself a rum, drinks it, grateful for the soothing feeling it gives her.  She relaxes a little, turns around, looks around the room … and she sees something she didn’t notice when she first walked in … an envelope on the floor, near the door.  She sets the glass down, walks over and picks it up.  Frowns, opens it, removes the short note; reads; her face goes white as a sheet, her mouth drops opens, but she’s unable to make a sound:*

Danielle,

If you wish to ever see your poet again, you better read this note very carefully and follow the instructions.  I want LaCroix.  He belongs with me; you do not deserve his love.  Bring him to me or I will kill your poet.  You have exactly two days.  Meet me by the big oak tree in the Sleepy Hollow woods two days from now, immediately after sunset; where we will make the exchange.  And remember, should you decide to bring assistance, that will be the last time both you and the poet see daylight.

Loralee

Manouche *stuffs the letter and envelope in her pocket, leaves her suite, keeping as light on her feet as she can, despite her haste.  Quickly leaves the factory, heads for From Hell Court.  Goes straight to Malachi’s apartment, taps on the door*  M-Malachi, mate … please be there, please let me in …

Malachi *opens the door, looks out cautiously*  Manouche, come in quickly.  *grabs her arm, pulls her inside*  I’ve been hiding a lot lately.  Between that crazy sea captain, Portsmith lockin’ me up for no reason … too crazy out there.  I’m thinkin’ I may need to leave this town altogether, at least for awhile.  *he locks door, turns to look at her.*  It’s too much, it’s … *voice trails off as he sees tears streaming down her face; he picks up on her thoughts, and he gazes at her with sympathy*  Oh, god … c’mere, trouble girl, let it all out, and tell me what’s going on.  *he takes her in his arms, lets her cry, strokes her hair*  There, easy, brave girl, we'll figure it out ... don't worry ...

At an undisclosed location:

Loralee *approaches Blake, who’s sitting on the ground; begins to remove gag*

Delano *sitting a bit away, observing Loralee and Blake*  Are you sure …

Loralee *stops, turns and looks at Delano with anger in her pale, blue eyes*  Must you question everything?  It is getting very tiresome … *anger disappears from her eyes; tilts her head to the side; pouting*  Let me have my fun …

Delano *smiles*  Have your fun, pet.  *to Blake, sympathetically*  Good luck, friend.

Loralee *smiles back; returns to Blake and continues removing the gag; traces his face with her fingers while looking at him as if she’d never seen a human being before*  You sure are a handsome one, gotta give her that.  *Stops in her tracks, looks at him, puzzled*  But still, why would she choose you over LaCroix?  The wench must have an ill mind.  *Gazes into his eyes while gently caressing his face with her cold hands*  Why would a sensitive soul as you want to be with a treacherous woman like her?

Blake *muscles aching from having been bound so long, tries to take a deep breath after the gag is removed.  Loralee’s fingers against his face are cold and sharp, almost like shards of ice; he wonders if she’s actually leaving traces of scars as they graze his skin.  He flinches, tries in vain to move away from her touch*  You – you have the wrong person … y-y-you’re making a mistake … Sh-she’s not Danielle … an’ she’s done nothing to you …

Loralee *looks at him furiously*  Do not try to play tricks on me!  Done nothing to me?  She made LaCroix believe he loves her!  She made me …  *voice trails off as images of LaCroix lying dead on the ground enter her mind, his child next to him; shakes off the image and slaps Blake hard across the face*  Shut up!

Delano *dryly*  Word of advice friend, don’t provoke her …

Blake *shakes head slightly, grits his teeth to keep from crying out.  The cold, brittle hands make a simple slap in the face feel like the lash of a whip; he’s pretty certain he’s bleeding.  He knows he should probably listen to Delano, but Loralee’s words are making him too angry.  He keeps his head down for a moment, then looks up at her, his deep, dark eyes flash*  I’m not playing tricks … You have … the wrong .. person.  Damn you, if you hurt her … *trembling with fury*  … leave her the hell alone …

Loralee *stares at him; eyes flaring with fury*

Delano *stands on his feet, ready to intervene; to Blake*  Do you have a death wish?

Loralee *expression suddenly changes; her fury gone; laughs*  If I hurt her, then what?  What can you possibly do?  *to Delano*  He amuses me!

Blake *to Delano*  If she kills me now ... she doesn't have much to bargain with, does she?  *turns, glares at Loralee*  You’re right .. I guess I can’t do much … right now.  I don’t have to do anything … you’ll do it all to yourself.  I … I know what you did … you get to … to relive that every day … for th’ rest of your life … you’ll see those bodies … dead on the ground … *laughs*  you’ll never … know peace … or love with someone.  *swallows*  But I have.  An’ … an’ you can’t take that from Manouche an’ me …

Loralee *stops laughing; looks at Delano with desperation and despair written in her face; falls to the ground weeping like a small child.*

At the hospital:

Kat *Upon entry, she spots Andrew, grabs him by the lapel, draws her sword and puts it to his throat.*  If ye value yer life in the least, take me to Abberline.  NOW, FOOL!!!

Andrew *too horrified to say anything just stares at her, unable to make a sound*

Sebastian *from the cover of the counter, peeps at her timidly, manages to say*  Floor two, room 15.  *then he ducks and crawls quickly to the nurse's lunch room, shuts the door after him and sighs with relief*  Good luck, Andrew, you were a good mate ...

Andrew *nods, tries to smile reassuringly*

Kat *Glares at Sebastian, shakes Andrew.*  I be not trustin' any body in this bloody place!  Lead me there and be quick 'bout it a fore I get impatient!  Savvy???

Andrew *Er.. if you'd stop shaking me I could lead you..it is as Sebastian says..* she releases him, he skulks hastily to the lifts* This way, if you please, this way to the second floor. He presses himself against the wall as far as possible from her, the ride seems terribly long until the doors open* It's right here, Ma'am.. pleased to be of service... *opens the door and slinks away, cursing Sebastian*

Kat *Enters room, crosses to the bed.  Looks at him, touches his face*  Abby?  My love, what 'ave they done te ye?  *Leans toward him kissing his lips.  Takes his hand and waits.*

At the hospital:

Willy *walks firmly and quickly, his shoes make a tapping echo down the halls of the hospital.  He walks right into Portsmith*  Portsmith!  Just the person I wanted to see.  Have you seen Blake or Godley?

Portsmith:  Mr. Wonka!  What a surprise to see you here, I hope nothing has happened to the triplets.  Blake?  Godley?  No, I haven't seen either of them and I don't have time for them now, if you excuse me.  *yells*  NURSE!  Bloody hospital, can't find anyone when you need them, otherwise they are just swarming in the way.

Willy *arches brow*  No, nothing has happened to the triplets, they're all fine.  It's my brother I'm concerned about.  He's gone missing.  And Manouche ... *pauses to watch her reaction to his sister's name* ... is concerned.  What about Kat?  Have you seen her?

Portsmith:  Why should I have seen any of that bunch, if you’ll excuse my expression.  I'd be very pleased myself to know their whereabouts.  Especially that darling sister of yours.  You might not be happy hearing how she endangers lives in this hospital.  With all due respect.

*Behind her back, Sergeant Godley sneaks in Abberline’s room, astonishingly nimbly for such a big man; winks to Willy, forms with his lips the words 'keep her occupied', grins, closes the door softly*

Willy: *gives a small secretive smile*  And yet she does a great more of saving lives, too.  With all due respect, Commander, you’re greatly mistaken.  *steps closer, looks down at her*  You wouldn't be planning to throw any of them in the brig so to speak now, would you?

Portsmith:  You don't know what I am talking about. I have evidence, Mr. Wonka.  She has been impersonating a doctor and imperiling lives because of that at the hospital.  She's not a qualified doctor.  I have her on a tape.  Would you like to see it?  I just want justice to be done, Mr. Wonka.

Willy:  Mhmm.  And she only helped deliver three healthy babies.  With or without a medical license.  *thinks for a minute, remembers Godley*  Well, I have the time.  Show me the tape.

Portsmith:  Good!  *almost slaps him on the back but checks herself in time*  If you please, I can take you to my own personal room here to see that tape.  *leads him back to the reception, to Andrew, who peers timidly from behind the counter*  Get us some coffee to my room.  *to Willy*  But delivering babies is not the same as acting as a medical doctor.  *opens the door to her surveillance room at the hospital, with cosy armchairs and a bowl of Wonka chocolate on the coffee table.  Puts the tape in and starts it, sits back.  Abberline's room appears on the monitor, and there is a person in a white coat standing with her back to the camera, then she turns and she's clearly Manouche.  Even the name label Dr. Rainey is clearly seen.  Portsmith stops the frame*  What do you say about this, Mr. Wonka?

Willy *sits back, cane to the side of the chair, leg crossed*  First I have to ask ... why were you taping this?

Portsmith *baffled*  That was a strange question.  For security reasons, obviously.  I am head of Security and I am responsible for this little town.  I have to know what happens here to know about all security risks.  Don't you agree?  I am sure you have installed security systems at the factory.

Willy:  Well of course.  Especially after Bugaboo shut down my entire factory.  *remembers the virus, shakes head, goes back to subject*  Do you have any idea why she did that?  I mean, you didn't care to say ... investigate?  Manouche isn't the kind of ... pirate to do a crime for no reason ... surprisingly.

Portsmith: Yes I remember that.  *shudders at the thought of Bugaboo*  That is what I'd like to find out.  The real Dr. Rainey was most offended.  Er, perhaps you could find out her reasons for that?  Unless she was doing something to the Inspector, I know they haven't been on good terms lately.

Willy *accepts the coffee Andrew brings to him with a shakey hand, drinks*  No..I seriously doubt she and Abberline had anything wrong.  Being that she was a witness to his wedding.  She was awfully happy about it, too.  I'll find out why, but that gives you no reason to actually go AFTER her, Portsmith.

Portsmith *takes her coffee cup, is about to drink when she hears the last words of Willy’s*  WHAT?  What wedding?  Whose wedding are you talking about?  *drops the cup to the floor but she doesn't even notice, spilling the hot coffee on her*

Willy: *arches his brow, smiling like a bit of a smartass*  What?  You didn't know?  He and Kat married.  *looks at the TV* Why just yesterday I believe.  I see good reason, especially with the new baby *looks smiling at her*  The right thing to do *sips his coffee*

Portsmith *gets up agitated, yells*  Kat?  Baby?  But ... but he can't marry just like that!  What baby?  Don't tell me they are having a baby?  This is … intolerable!  And how can you just sit there like nothing happened.  I'll strangle her ... I'll show her!  I don't believe that he would do ... without my knowledge.  *forgets the tape, leaves the room and heads straight out of the hospital in search of Kat with a murderous glint in her eye*

Willy *giggles to himself, grabs the tape, slips it in his coat, heads to Abberline's room* 

In Abberline’s room:

Kat *Startled, reaches for her sword. Sees it's Godley and relaxes.*

Sergeant Godley *enters the room, shuts the door, comes to Kat's side*  Kat, they told me he had a heart attack.  He can't hear you now, we have to wait.  *brings her a chair, looks at her sympathetically*  You'd better sit down.  He's not in danger anymore.  I stopped to ask the doctor, and he said that it was the drugs that did it to him, that he was brought from an opium den after his heart stopped.  You got any idea why?  He's steered clear of those dens for days now.  Wonder what happened.  *looks at Abberline*

Kat *Takes the seat, relieved by his words.*  No I don't know why.  *Guitily looks away.*

Godley *looks at her sharply and suspiciously*  Really?  I've attended many merrier weddings.  But I can't say what happened after I left, did you make up?  For your sake, I hope you did.  *frowns at her*  ‘Cause otherwise ...

*cabinet door opens; Raven, having changed back to himself, climbs out.  He comes up to Kat and Godley, takes one of his mother’s hands in both of his*  I know what happened.  Manouche helped save him.  *looks back at the door, not wanting Portsmith to hear; he leans closer to them, speaks softly*  She helped get him here, an’ she dressed up like a doctor an’ went into the surgery room with him.  *looks at Kat, smiles*  But she said Chiana’s the one who performed the miracle.

Kat *Hearing Godley’s words she looks at Raven then Abby*  Perhaps I shouldna be 'ere.  *Stands*

Raven *holds her hand firmly, his grip surprisingly strong*  No, Mother.  We both need you.  You have to stay.  I won't let you run away, not this time.  *thinks to himself, telling his mother what to do -- that IS grown up!*

Godley *eyeing her with hostility*  Maybe it is I who should leave from this nice little family gathering that ... *stops when Abberline stirs and opens his eyes*

Raven *moves over to Abberline, gently hugs him*  F-Father ... are you all right? ..

Abberline *looks at him, smiles faintly*  Kat?

Kat *Startled, moves closer puts her hand over his.*  Aye luv.  I'm 'ere

Abberline:  I was mad at you .... *grasps her hand tightly*  Why did you leave me?

Kat:  I were afraid, stubborn and prideful.  Nothin' I be proud of now.  Iffen ye want me te go, I will.  *Pauses*  But I won't want te.

*Off stage whisper* And she's getting more afraid by the second  *laughter*

Abberline *grasps her hand tighter*  No, don't go ... I was a fool.

Godley *coughs*  Well, I'd better be leaving now.  Best I'll check after the Commander and keep her away. *to Raven*  You, boy, I leave your mother and father to your care now.  Don't let them do anything stupid!

At the Security office:

Portsmith *having been to Kat's house, the Apparition, Chez Roux and even Bournemouth House returns to the Office.  She's calmed down and starts to think at her desk*  Charlie!

Charlie *with the tattered white shirt still on, now ripped entirely up at the chest*  Yes, Commander.

Portsmith:  The latest news, Charlie, any registered marriages?

Charlie *returns soon with a paper*  Yes, Inspector Abberline married Katelyn Cassidy, whoever that is, yesterday.

Portsmith *snatches the paper*  I don't need your stupid comments.  Give it to me and get out!  *Reads it twice, begins to feel angry again at the both of them*  This can't be true.  I'll have to find a way to cancel it, to annul that marriage.  Just you wait, Fred ...

In Abberline’s room:

Willy *nods at Godley as he makes his way out*  Abberline, how are you?  *pauses*  More bad news about Portsmith.  She's going after your marriage.  She's going to try and cancel it.  I suggest if neither of you want this to happen ... *arches brow, pauses, looks at both of them* ... you'll watch out for her.

Abberline *turns to look at Willy, tries to get up*  I won't let her do anything like that!

Willy:  Then I suggest, Inspector, that you just avoid her.  She won't be doing anything of the sort.  I'll take care of it if you'll allow me.  It won't take very long.

Abberline:  You are the only one she listens to.  If you really can, I'd appreciate it.  I don't know what to do with her, but I won't let her mess with my life anymore.  *to Kat*  Unless you changed your mind ...

Kat:  No luv, I've not changed it.  *Gripping his hand firmly*

Raven *looks at his parents, then walks over to Willy, takes his hand*  Mr. Wonka, let’s go to the cafeteria.  *grins*  They have hot chocolate …

Willy *looks at his hand, frowns, then takes out his handkerchief, smiles*  You know my rules, first boy.  *Raven grins, then takes the handkerchief, wipes his hand, Willy grins, puts it back in his coat, nods at Abberline and Kat*  I'll take care of it first thing tomorrow.  *takes Raven's hand, walks him down to the first floor*  What’s say you and me skip the mixed chocolate and head back to the factory for some real cocoa?  I know a few babies who want to be played with as well.

Abberline *after they've gone*  How about a belated wedding night ... *tries to pull her down beside him but he's still too weak*

Kat *Leans in close to him, kisses his neck*  Ye need yer rest, luv.  I promise soon as yer well 'nuff, eh?  *Smiles wickedly*

Abberline *the heart rate monitor makes a sudden lurch ... he holds her hand tight*  Tomorrow.  *he shuts his eyes and drifts to sleep*

At an undisclosed location:

Delano *crouches down next to Loralee; puts a protective arm around her while talking to Blake*  And there’s your reason for me telling you not to provoke her – and possibly keep you alive for just a bit longer.  *Glances at Loralee*  And you’re wrong, as long as I’m alive, she will know love.  She may not love me the way I want her to, but she will be loved.  *Looks back at Blake*  Don’t for a moment believe I won’t kill you if you hurt her.  I’m not that keen on getting Mala … *corrects himself*  LaCroix here.

Blake *despite his weariness and anger, watches the scene in amazement … all the while, he continues to work the ropes binding his wrists against a sharp stone he’s found on the ground behind him.  He feels them loosening slowly, strand by strand.  His head is pounding, he tries to think of things to say to keep them from noticing what he’s doing*  L-look … none of us would hurt her … if she weren’t tryin’ to hurt us.  Why don’t you let me go … forget this whole thing?  Sh-she has the wrong person, I swear … Manouche is not Danielle, she didn’t take this LaCroix away from her …  *feels the rope loosening a little more*

Loralee *looks at Delano with a pleading expression*  Please do not listen to him!

Delano *smiles adoringly*  No worries pet … *to Blake as he rises and approaches him*  Now, you know I can’t do that.  I can’t blame you for trying, but … *tightens Blake’s ropes and removes the stone*  It just isn’t going to happen.  Oh, and please stop trying to escape on your own, because that isn’t going to happen either, and I may run out of patience.  *Returns to Loralee and helps her to her feet; leads her to a knocked-down tree-trunk.  She sits down on the tree-trunk while glaring at Blake*

Blake *winces at the ropes cutting into his wrists, now tighter than ever; his headache seems to increase with this new disappointment of his escape being thwarted.  He feels Loralee’s cold gaze upon him without looking at her, and the cold is almost physically palpable.  He shivers, looks up at Delano*  You … you love her … *he nods toward Loralee* … so why don’t the two of you leave together, have a life together?  *grins sardonically*  I guess you’re more … open minded than I would be.  I sure wouldn’t want to share Manouche with someone … ‘specially a guy as good-lookin’ as Mala— ahhh, LaCroix.

Delano *feels the anger rising in him; clenches his fists trying to calm himself; coldly but with a sadness*  Don’t push it … *returns to his spot on the ground without another word*

Blake:  I’m just tryin’ to understand.  I don't understand you at all ....... L-listen, do you think I could have some water?  I’m … really thirsty …

Delano *glances shortly at Blake*  Have you never loved someone you couldn’t have?  Someone that belonged to someone else?  *Smiles for a moment*  You don’t know her like I do … you can’t see past the insanity, see the woman she really is … beautiful, powerful, graceful … and yes, even gentle. *bitterly*  But with *makes air-quotations* Danielle and LaCroix so close…it’s the guilt more than it is the hatred of Danielle that makes her this way.  The guilt drives her mad.  *Looks at Blake with intensity and sadness in his brown eyes*  What am I supposed to do?  Leave her?  Would you leave Manou…Danielle if something happened that drove her into madness?  Sorry, I don’t have any water …

Loralee *lies down on the tree-trunk looking into the sky; a smile broadens on her face*  I have named all the stars … but I’ve named them all the same and now there’s a terrible confusion …

Blake:  No, I never loved someone like that.  I loved someone, nearly married her … but … she left me.  Then I lost my family, and I was alone for years … till I met Manouche.  *he thinks about her, his eyes soft as he imagines her at home, worried sick about him, frightened … and his anger flares again, anger at these two before him, anger at himself for allowing them to capture him, to use him to hurt his love so, and for endangering Malachi.  He tries to control his anger, it’ll get him nowhere.  He looks at them*  So … what do you think will happen, once you have LaCroix?  You can’t force someone to stay.  He’ll only leave again, first chance he gets … do you both intend to chase him around the rest of your lives?  Let me go, leave Deppville, forget the whole thing and start fresh.  It's not too late.  You’re wasting your time, chasing after something that no longer exists, if it ever did.  I’ve seen Jerod’s journal, so I have my doubts.  The past is dead.

Delano *lowers eyes as he listens to Blake’s suggestion, the very thing he wants most of all … to leave and start fresh, forget all about Danielle and especially LaCroix; quietly without looking at Blake*  I guess we’ll see what happens …

Loralee *rises from the trunk; smiles as she approaches Blake*  Once he is here, he will remember how much he loves me and he will not want to leave.

Delano *hesitates; to Loralee*  Maybe … *a hint of hope in his voice*  we could go to New Orleans?  The French quarter?  You’d like that.

Loralee *morphs into her demon face as she turns; angrily*  Treacherous fiend!  *morphs back to her human features; disappointed*  You do not want me to be reunited with my love.  Why would you want to keep me from being happy?

Delano: *closes his eyes for a moment while thinking of what to say; decides to go with the truth*  I want you to be happy; I just wish I’d be the one to make you happy.

Loralee *laughs*  Silly boy!  You will like LaCroix …I am sure of it.

Blake *tries to calm his terror at seeing Loralee’s demon face; steadies his pounding heart, then watches them carefully as she returns to her human face, her mood instantly lightening.  He sees it may be to his benefit to fan the diversion between them*  So, Delano here is gonna follow along, play the third wheel.  I guess things could be worse … *looks at Delano*  At least … you’ll get to see Loralee here, happy at last … her and LaCroix sitting together at restaurants, maybe getting up an’ dancing … walks on the beach … those lazy, long hours where you just can’t either one of you bring yourself to get out of bed … you’ll be able to bring ‘em coffee, have little chats together … when they’re not busy … *his head throbs horrifically, he squeezes his eyes shut tight for a moment against the pain; it subsides, he looks at Loralee*  Of course, this could all be moot if LaCroix doesn’t remember you … *turns to Delano*  But that would be better for you … you could then be the comforting best friend … finally get her to the French Quarter, like you’ve been wantin’ all along …

Loralee *furious*  He WILL remember me!

Delano *trembling from anger and jealousy as he sees images of Loralee and LaCroix chatting happily together; tries to steady himself, but suddenly charges towards Blake as his face morphs into the horrific demonic features; his yellow eyes flaring with rage, his teeth gleaming in the moonlight; grabs Blake and reaches to brush his teeth against Blake’s neck before a cry from Loralee stops him*

Loralee *horrified*  NO!  We need him!

Delano *steps away from Blake, approaches Loralee without changing back*  Correction!  YOU need him!  So you can get your precious LaCroix back!  But guess what, pet?  It isn’t LaCroix and she isn’t Danielle!  They’re dead!  Have been for a couple of centuries … you killed your beloved LaCroix, pet.  That’s right, you did!  *Loralee trembles; looks at him in horror; falls to the ground once again; weeps and holds out a trembling hand towards him.  Delano sees the state Loralee’s in; mumbles something incomprehensible in French and morphs back to his gentle features; quietly*  Sorry, love, but sometimes the truth hurts.

Blake *trembling violently, sheen of sweat on his face, recovers his voice; swallows, tries to speak in a gentle voice, hopeful at seeing Loralee so vulnerable.  This may be his chance*  So … Miss Loralee, you … you see the truth now … right?  So … you’ll listen to Delano, an’ let me go … right?  LaCroix is dead …

Loralee *stares at Blake with doubt written on her face; looks to Delano for support.  He lowers his eyes, avoiding her gaze and plea for help.  She looks back at Blake; rises with effort; points from one to the other with a trembling hand*  No!  You both lie!  LaCroix lives – I saw him myself.  He … he cannot be dead, I didn’t … I love him, I would never hurt him … *looks at Delano with tears in her eyes; small voice*  Right?

Delano *slowly meets her pleading eyes; feels his heart going out to her and his expression softens; looks at Blake apologetically before approaching her and pulling her into his embrace*  You’re right, pet.  He’s playing tricks on both of us.

Blake *new disappointment floods his heart, and he lowers his head, shaking it*  Damn fools.  *looks up wearily*  Okay, so once the swap’s made, nobody gets hurt, right?  You’ll let me go, you’ll leave us alone?

Loralee *turns away from Delano, looks at Blake with a not so pleasant smile; leans her head against Delano’s chest*  That is the plan, isn’t it?  *pulls away from Delano and approaches Blake, crouches down and looks straight into his eyes with the same unnerving smile*  Of course, plans do occasionally fall through.

Delano *laughs*  Oh, she’s having her fun now!

Blake *recoils, struggling against his bonds, tries to pull away from her.  She had been so emotional in their conversation, he had almost forgotten how frightening she could be*  Wh-what do you … what do you mean by that?  You … you can’t … you’ve given your word … *feels his courage fading under her menacing smile as she moves closer, practically nose to nose with him, and he can back away no further from the cold eyes that seem to go right through him; how could he have been fool enough to think he might be getting the upper hand just minutes ago?  He tries to control his trembling, speaks in a low voice* ….. Sh-she’s NNOT Danielle … don’t – d-d-don’t hurt her …

Loralee *stands up, looks as if she’s really thinking of what he said*  You are quite right, I did give my word.  However, I truly doubt that your wench of a woman will keep her end of the deal and show up without reinforcements, do you?  *Laughs*  Don’t hurt her you say?  And who do you imagine is going to stop me?  *Crouches down, holds his chin in a strong grip; eyes wide and cold*  And now shut up!  She IS Danielle!