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At Tortuga:
Ichy *stumbling,
falling behind the others as they run back to the ship* Kat, wait for me! *but his voice comes in a nervous small squeak not heard by anyone. He gets up, rubs his knee and starts to limp after them as fast as he can, when a big heavy hand is laid
on his shoulder and someone spins him around, and he finds himself staring at a very large and tall woman in a frilly yellow
dress*
LaToya *smiles
coquettishly which makes her face look even more like a gargoyle than it was before* I
saw you eyeing me in the tavern and then you followed me to the next one. And
the next one after that. I do note when I am stared at, sailor. You're a shy one for a pirate. *she grins and stoops down to
embrace him with her strong arms* How about a kiss, dear? *Ichy tries to struggle free, starts to gag when her big mouth draws nearer to his, starts to feel
faint, when suddenly the pressure on him eases, and he is free. He draws a deep
breath of relief and backs a few steps, listening puzzled to the conversation of LaToya and the man who apparently
saved him from a fate worse than death.*
LaToya
*whining, trying to look small and innocent and failing miserably in both* Stimpy,
he fell on me. *she starts to sob* I
got so scared I couldn't move!
Stimpy
*about half the size of LaToya and double her age, wiry and wily looking turns to Ichy threateningly* I don't like that my wife can't walk in peace without being molested by strangers.
LaToya:
Beat him up! Strangle him! He tried to kiss me! *she starts to cry,
huge tears rolling down her cheeks and smearing her lined eyes.*
Ichy *backing
off* Er … There is some slight misunderstanding here, mister. I would never fall upon a lady that large and …
LaToya:
Did you hear that, Stimpy! He's
besmirching me.
Stimpy
*grumbling* I have an urge to strangle you, you miserable bastard, chasing innocent
defenceless women. Pirate! *he spits
out the last word, the he slaps LaToya on her fat cheek* I told you I
didn't like that Oriental Dancing Show of yours. They're all flocking after you
now.
Ichy *forgetting
the knee, does not want to know more about such a show, he spins around and sets off, runs like a madman until he reaches
The Brave, bumps into a member of the crew, hangs on to him* Let's leave immediately! Now!
At la Maison de Paradis:
Ava *takes a slow steady
walk la Maison de Paradis she doesn’t know what to expect. The day is bright and sunny, she cant wait to see her
babies, however some part of her is dreading it. The fear of the babies not remembering her grows intensely, Ava isn't quite
prepared for them if they come home. On the way there Ava takes a detour to the Le petit trésor she stands there looking at
the clothes. Ava stands there for some time, she sighs and heads to la Maison de Paradis, after several minutes walk she grows
closer. The sound of childrens’ screams of laughter can be heard from the street. She pumps her self up and heads up the drive and she knocks on the door; nervously twiddles her fingers,
she convinces herself not to run away*
Miranda *opening the door
with a bright smile on her face, she looks flushed and happy, and she's holding little Brian, who takes a look at
the unknown woman and hides his face, his mouth and a part of his chin covered in chocolate. Miranda has bread crumbs
in her hair and her beautiful light blue and white dress is soiled with what looks like a menu for today.* We are eating now. That's why I look they way I do *and her
smile broadens*, it's such a mess. I don't normally give the kids chocolate,
though, as a meal, but it was a special occasion, and we all deserved something nice.
What brings you to the house? Would you like to look around while we finish the meal? Or would you like something yourself? I still have some
muffins and egg sandwiches left. I made them myself *she announces proudly and
turns to go back to kitchen, but stops halfway and looks over her shoulder* Come
on now, don't be shy!
Ava: *shyly, she pulls her
sunglasses off and puts them in her bag* Oh ok *reluctantly follows her into the kitchen, Ava can smell the muffin* Oh
is it those muffins I can smell they smell delish *giggles* sorry for that I don’t normally say delish I blame it on
my George. *smiles a nervous smile at Miranda* well I am actually here to see if my children are here.
Miranda *puts Brian down
on a chair, he sits there for about a second before he takes a muffin with his chocolate smeared hands, puts in on
a used plate and hands it to Ava* Oh no, Brian, you should have taken
a clean plate. *she looks around her, but can't find any* We are out of plates, I see, but I found you a mug that's clean.
*She looks at it with a frown* Or at least it looks like it was clean* She pour her good coffee for Ava* Children?
Your children? You must be Ava, I didn't recognize you immediately
with those sunglasses on. Oh my, it's Sam and Lola you've come for. I am sure they must be delighted to see their mother again. They
are such lovely kids, both of them ... Wait here, I will find them ... *she dashes out of the kitchen and Ava is left alone with Brian for a while*
Brian: Why don't you eat your muffin?
Ava: *smiles at Brian*
well Brian I think I am going to eat it now it looks good*taking the muffin of the plate and starts to tear little pieces
off it at a time* mmmm *smiles* did you help make them Brian. *smiles again and thinks about the animals at sacred
mist animal shelter* Hey Brian I have a secret would you like to hear it *knowing that children love secrets Ava drops
some hints* what do you think about animals like a farm.
Brian *nods eagerly and moves
closer to her, whispers confidentially* Are there many animals on a farm? Do you have a farm? Can I come and feed
them?
Ava: well I do have a farm
for animals who dont have a home *whispers* top secret information Brian, it has 2 donkeys, 2 ducks, 8 dogs, 6 miniature
goats, 4 parrots, 4 cats, 3 monkeys, 3 rabbits and 2 love birds. *gets closer* well Brian I would be happy for you to
come and you could bring some friends if you want, I am positive they would love you to feed them and some just love their
tummies being rubbed. *smiles* top secret.
Brian *nods eagerly and very
seriously while trying to memorize the count, but it's more than he can master* I
can keep a secret.
Miranda *returns to the kitchen* Ava, they are sleeping, and I don't want to wake them up. Come and see for yourself. *she takes her hand and leads her
out of the kitchen, up the stairs and to a bedroom with two small beds, where Ava can see her babies sleeping peacefully.* You can sit in the armchair and wait till they wake.
*softly* I am sure that they can feel their mother's presence and see
beautiful dreams .. *she's about to go when she adds cautiously* What about the
father, Ava?
Ava: *smiles as she gazes
into the cribs* They are beautiful when they sleep, their dreams are beautiful, you have taken very good care of them, I believe
you were born to do this. The father well that’s the problem *sighs* Miranda would you mind if I told you
something in confidence woman to woman, you wouldn't tell another soul.
Miranda *sits down on the
floor and looks at her with her bright eyes* I used to take care of my small
siblings ... A long time ago .... Yes.
I can keep secrets. If there's something I can do for you, I am listening.
Ava: oh good then it's a
rather long story *sighs* Before I start you may judge me but what and when this happened I was foolish. *smiles* the father
situation is a difficult one I don’t not know who for sure is the father. At the time when I met Don I was in love with
another *smiles* The one I was and still am in love with was on the run from the law. My family picked him up and let him
take refuge with us *smiles* thats when I fell in love with him, he's not the smartest of guys but he's a good one indeed.
*smiles* we got to know each other very well and spent a many of a night together we were in love. There was this one night
*blushes* well I know you know what happened. The following day I went into town and that's where I met Don *laughs* the great
Don Juan I dont know what happened to me I just fell for him *rolls her eyes* Don offered me so much and well he took advantaged
of that *sighs* well I was added to his list a many of a time. We married ever so quickly *looks at Miranda* ok 2 weeks I
left Geo.. *stutters* the one I love heart broken. Many of a month went by when I started to feel ill but naturally I
was pregnant Don was so happy. I couldn’t really say who the father is they both say they are. The one I loved moved
on got married I couldn't spoil his relationship so I just went along with it. There came a point *pauses* I guess you know
this part when every thing went down hill. They both question me about it and I think I know who the father is, but I am not
so sure. The only way I could do it is with a test, but I don’t think they could both be in the same room together.
Miranda: Oh, that was quite a story! But I do understand you, they
say that every woman falls for Don Juan, so you can't blame yourself for that. *thoughtfully*
Yes, he may be good looking and can treat women, but he's nothing compared to
Malachi. *proudly* Did you know
that all ladies love Malachi because he is a real gentleman and he's a pirate, and he knows everything and he can sort
out everything! *jumps up and claps her hands* Malachi
can handle this, because he is so wise. *and she runs out immediately to
find him* Malachi, she needs your help!
Malachi *coming down the
hall, sees Miranda* I was looking for you.
We got a call from the Barries. It seems Emma ran away, and they
took her in. *grins* I think they
want to adopt her. I told you there was nothing to worry about, I knew she was
fine … *his voice trails off, he frowns* What’s going on, who’s
in there with the twins? Who needs my help?
At From Hell Court:
Jeanne *shuts the book after
a couple of hours and looks at her watch. It must be already morning, though
it is hard to see any difference in this basement. Not the smallest trickle of
sunshine penetrates the grey walls. She starts to feel cold, but Abberline has
wrapped himself in her coat, and he seems to need it more than she. He's
been sleeping, but his dream is restless, he moans and turns and speaks in his dreams, but she can't get any sense of
it. She turns to him and shakes him carefully, with a hand on his shoulder.* Inspector,
time to get up and go home. Your baby girl must be waiting for you.
Abberline *turns around and
groans, he shivers and pulls the coat tighter* No. I am not going home.
I can't. I don't want her to see
me like this ...
Jeanne: I agree, you don't look great at all, but I don't doubt you will be much more presentable after
a shower, a new set of clothes and a shave. And a decent breakfast.
How are you going to explain being absent for the whole night to your wife?
Abberline *throws off the
coat, it falls on the ground, he gets up, holding his head* I don't know. I don't think I have a wife anymore ... And I ... I am not going home. Could
you do me one more favor?
Jeanne: Sure. If it doesn't involve cooking or doing dishes.
Abberline *his face very
serious* If you could find me a pen and a paper. I want to write a note.
Jeanne *raises her eyebrows*
Ah, you don't want to confront your family from eye to eye ... *she rips a page from a sketch book and gives him a pencil,
watches how he scribbles down a short note, his hand trembling: "Manouche, My
wish is that you will take care of Chiana and raise her as your daughter. I can't
make it. Fred."* Is that really
what you want to do? And where will you go? You
can't stay here forever.
Abberline *nods* Yes. And I have a small room not far. Please, just get
this note to Manouche Roussel Blake. Take a cab. Why have you been so helpful
to me?
Jeanne *shrugs* I don't know, honestly. I get bored, I guess. *She folds the note, wondering what the recipient will say about it* What
if she's not at home?
Abberline: Just leave it there.
Jeanne *picks her coat from
the floor* Don't leave anywhere while I'll play the mailman for you. This is getting interesting.
At Tortuga:
Blake *brings The Libertine
Trailer into port, calls out to Donnie to weigh anchor. He looks around, notices
amongst various pirate ships, The Brave, then he’s surprised to see The 12th Commandment.* What the— *he turns, sees Donnie has also noticed The
Brave; grins* Go ahead, Donnie, don’t wait for me. I’ll be right there. *Donnie doesn’t hesitate;
dashes from the ship, heads for The Brave.*
Blake *checks everything
out, makes sure the ship is secure and everything’s sound before leaving. Now
that he knows he’s close to actually seeing Manouche, he’s suddenly very nervous.
His first thought is that all he wants to do is take her in his arms and hold her; but how will she be upon seeing
him, now that she’s met Constance, now that she knows he expressed a wish to see her … he cringes at the thought,
then remembers everything Donnie told him* This is stupid. I’ve got to face her. *he grabs his jacket, leaves the
ship, starts walking toward The Brave*
Raven *calling out to him
from the 12th Commandment, waves* William Blake!
Over here!
Blake *turns, looks up* Raven! What’re you doing here,
an’ … what’re you doing on Portsmith’s yacht? I don’t
think she’d be too keen …
Raven: She’s not here, Mr. Corso brought it here. Manouche
is on board, we’re just about to come over to The Brave. Grace rescued
Mother! We’ll be right there.
Blake *looks over at The
Brave, then looks at the 12th Commandment; he can’t wait another second. He
turns, runs to the yacht, boards it as quickly as he can, runs along the deck* Manouche! Where are you? *he gets to the main cabin,
flings the door open, stares*
Manouche *changing from Portsmith’s
uniform, caught wearing just the short skirt and a black bra, turns, startled, quickly brings her shirt up in front of her* Bloody ‘ell, lil’ mate! Ye
should knock, savvy? *she stops, sees that it’s Blake* Oh … b-by th’ powers … M-Mr. Blake …
Blake *closes the door behind
him, gazing at her* Honey … honey, I … *he looks at what she’s
wearing, raises eyebrows* Why are you—
Manouche *quickly pulls her
shirt on* Long story. *she looks
at him carefully* What’s yer heart tellin’ ye, love?
Blake *swallows* It’s saying that … that I’ve been a fool.
Manouche: Oh … *she slips off the short skirt, puts on her own black trousers*
Well … that ain’t necessarily true, y’know. Ye ‘ad
somethin’ ye needed t’ find out … an’ now …
Blake: I found out. *starts to approach her* M-Manouche, I –
Manouche *holds up a hand* I know. Ye think I don’t know what’s
goin’ on? *motions to herself* Dreamer,
mate. Truth be told … *she steps away from him, finds her long scarf, ties
it around her head in a bandana* … this were somewhat fortuitous. Y’see
… *picks up her gold earrings, puts them on* … I been needin’ to find out a few things meself. An’ I ‘ave to admit … *finds her strands of beads, brings them over her head, around
her neck* … I didn’t realize how much I’ve missed piratin’.
Comin’ ‘ere, this were one o’ th’ best things I done in quite some time. Matchin’ wits with th’ locals, drinkin’ meself silly, watchin’ ol’ Dean Corso
make an idiot of himself with th’ wenches. *grins, glances in a mirror,
runs her hands through her hair. Looks at her reflection, continues to talk,
though it’s as much to herself as to him* Piracy’s in me blood, savvy? *she gazes into the mirror for a few minutes, then turns to look at him* So I’m thinkin’ … per’aps ye’d like to reconsider th’ generous offer
from yer former potential future missus, ay? Think of it, mate. Ye’d be back home, with people who’ve known ye since ye were a child. Ye’d ‘ave a fine source o’ income … an’ ye could still write poetry all ye
like. *turns back, looks in the mirror again*
Ye’d ‘ave a future.
Blake *face pale* Wh-what’re you talking about … *he comes up to her, grabs her arm* You’re my wife. My future is with you, whatever it is. *he looks into her eyes, sees defiance* Honey
… I don’t love her. I haven’t loved her in years and years.
Manouche *softly* But ye felt a need t’ see ‘er, didn’t ye? *she
relents at the stricken look in his face* Don’t reproach yerself, love. It’s a perfectly understandable feelin’ … it were unfinished business,
weren’t it? I wouldn’t ‘ave wanted ye t’ pass up doin’
somethin’ that would bring ye peace o’ mind just ‘cause ye would fear hurtin’ me feelins’. *she gently pulls away from him, finds her pirate boots, sits in one of the chairs
to pull them on* I ain’t upset about it, truly I ain’t. It were a shock, I won’t deny that. But … blimey,
she contacted ye, how could ye not be curious? *she looks up at him* I jus’ want ye t’ be sure ye were answerin’ her out of yer feelin’s, an’
not because o’ guilt. Sh-she can do things fer ye, love, don’t ferget. She’s prob’ly influential back in yer home town … she could possibly
introduce ye t’ people … she could … she could … *she turns, looks out the window at the sea*
Blake *nods* I see what this is about. She could give me children. *he moves over to her, drops to his knees in front of her, his hands on her waist* Honey, I’ve told you so many times I don’t care about that, why won’t
you believe me?
Manouche *tearfully* ‘Cause a small part o’ ye does care about it, William Blake, ye even said
as much t’ Alifi!!
Blake *tears in his eyes* No … no, you misunderstood …
Manouche *turns, looks at
him* Anyway, it ain’t that. At
least, that ain’t all of it, though of course I do think of it, I’ll always think of it. Can’t help it, ye’d be such a fine father. *sobs*
Blake *draws her closer* Manouche, I don’t want to be a father unless it’s by your side, the two
of us bringing up a child. I don’t give a toss whose child it is biologically. I … I’ve thought of Chírilo, how much fun we could have, adopting her. If you sensed any of my talk with Alifi, you surely sensed that.
Manouche *looks at him, nods* Aye. I know ye said that. *smiles a little through her tears* I – I’d like
that very much, love. I’m quite fond o’ that lil’ girl.
Blake *smiles hopefully* Well then … then what’s all this?
All this talk about piracy … I’ve always said I wouldn’t try to keep you from that. Just … include me once in awhile, is all.
Manouche: I – I ‘ad me reasons fer leavin’ ye out this last time.
*her eyes fill with tears, she starts to pull away* An’ y’see,
that’s what I’m on about … that’s why ye should … ye should go …
Blake: No. I don’t understand, you’ve GOT to give me
a chance to understand. Manouche! *he
shakes her slightly, then something dawns on him, and he looks at her fearfully* Something
happened … what’s wrong? *Manouche looks at him steadily, and a horrible
feeling comes over him* Oh … honey … *he swiftly takes her in his
arms, holds her tight, sobbing*
Manouche *murmurs* Who says ye ain’t got a bit o’ dreamer t’ ye, my love … *she brings her arms around
him, holds him* P-please, love, it ain’t hopeless … th’ Guardians
are workin’ on it … an’ I ain’t even brought it up t’ Alifi yet.
Who knows, she may ‘ave some ideas, as might Boadicea … an’ nothin’ may ‘appen fer years,
so I’m told.
Blake *pulls away slightly,
takes her face in his hands, kisses her lips passionately; gazes at her* You
were gonna send me away because of it, weren’t you? You weren’t gonna
tell me …
Manouche: I want ye to ‘ave a chance at ‘appiness, Mr. Blake … somethin’ with a future …
Blake: Honey, there are never any guarantees. I married you. I don’t want anybody else. Can
you ever forgive me for—
Manouche *puts a hand to
his lips* Ye don’t even ‘ave t’ finish that thought.
Blake: Then don’t send me away. I don’t want to go back
east, I was happy to leave it when I did. An’ I don’t want anybody
else. I married you, an’ it’ll forever be the happiest decision of
my life. Till death do us part … I meant every word. Deux coeurs, une
âme, notre monde.
Manouche *tears in her eyes* Oui … deux coeurs, une âme, notre monde. *they kiss, then gaze deeply
into each others’ eyes* Mr. Blake … Grace has everythin’ under
control ‘ere. She’s rescued Kat, they don’t need me. W-would ye take me home? On our ship?
Blake *nods* Nothing would please me more, Mrs. Blake. *they hear a sound
at the door; they turn to see Raven, watching them, his eyes large and solemn*
Raven: M-Manouche …
Manouche *wipes her eyes
quickly, smiles* Ah! Raven, yer
jus’ in time. I need ye t’ do somethin’ fer me, luv. Would ye go to th’ Brave, tell Captain Brasco that I’ve decided t’ head home? Tell ‘er that, an’ then go be with yer mum. She’s
there, she’s safe, an’ she needs ye.
Raven *stares at her, sensing
something very serious but unable to pin it down* But Manouche … are you—
Manouche *waves a hand impatiently* I’m fine. I were jus’ missin’
me handsome husband, is all. *smiles warmly at Blake* An’ I’m missin’ home, too. So now that Kat’s
safe, it’s time I returned. I been gone too long, savvy?
Raven *starts to say something,
then sees in her eyes that she’s urging him to go along with her. He nods
slowly* Okay … *brightens* I’m
so glad Mother’s safe. *he comes up to Manouche, throws his arms around
her, kisses her cheek* H-have a safe trip home.
*he turns, holds a hand out to Blake* G-goodbye, sir, I’ll see you
when we get back.
Blake *smiles, shakes his
hand* Make it quick, okay? I’ve
made a coupla changes to our little boat on the river, I want to see what you think of ‘em.
*Raven nods, leaves the cabin,
disembarks from the ship and runs to The Brave. A few minutes later, Blake and
Manouche leave the 12th Commandment, arms tightly wrapped around each other, and they board The Libertine Trailer. Soon the ship quietly pulls away from the docks, from the harbor, out to sea, headed back to Deppville,
to Rartigillichal, to home*
On The Brave:
Donnie *hurries towards the Brave anxious to see Grace again, but just as he’s about to board the ship he stops.
What if she had a vision? What if she knows about Isabella? He hasn’t even made up his mind if he should tell her about
it or not – one on hand, he wants to be honest and he doesn’t want her to find out in a vision, but on the other
hand telling her might cause more pain than if he keeps it to himself and lives with the guilt. He’s torn out of his
thoughts as he hears someone call his name*
Gibson *smiles as he sees Donnie* Mr. Brasco! Don’t jus’ stand there, come on board. *Continues
once Donnie’s on the ship* The Captain’s been mighty worried ‘bout
ye. *Points towards the cabin* Ye
go on an’ see her.
Donnie *smiles a little* Thanks Gibson.
*He goes to the cabin and knocks lightly on the door before he opens it and goes inside; despite his worries can’t
help smiling as he sees Grace sitting by a window gazing out at the sea* Hi Grace.
Grace *turns at the sound his voice; breaks into a smile and runs to him. She
throws her arms around his neck clinging to him tightly; through tears* I missed
ye so much!
Donnie *holding her tightly, thankful to finally be with her again. He
kisses her hair; murmurs* I missed you too, Gracie. *Closes his eyes for a moment, then looks at her worriedly as she pulls away and takes a few steps back;
quietly* You know, don’t you?
Grace *lowering her eyes* Aye, I know.
I did a bit o’ meditation, I were hoping te get a vision o’ whoever is threatening you, us. Instead I saw you an’ … an’ that woman. *Tears
fill her eyes again* I tried te pull out o’ the vision, but it were holdin’
me … it were like bein’ stuck in some nightmare.
Donnie *feels his heart breaking knowing he put her in such pain* Grace,
I’m so sorry, I …
Grace *holds up a hand to stop him* I know ye are, Donnie. An’ I know why I couldn’t pull out o’ the vision.
I ‘ad te see the whole thing te know how it ended. I know that ye
stopped it before it went too far … *quietly* an’ I know it only ‘appened ‘cause I were a bloody fool
an’ left ye te go piratin’.
Donnie *tryingly takes a few steps towards her and gently dries the tears off her cheeks with his sleeve; struggles
to get the words out* Are we … are we going to be alright? I know that I betrayed you, but it was a drunken mistake … I don’t wanna lose you.
Grace *leans into him and slowly puts her arms around his neck again* I
don’t want te lose ye either. *Pulls away a little and gazes into his eyes* Tell me ye luv me an’ we’ll forgive an’ forget.
Donnie *gently moves a strand of hair away from her face* I do love you,
so very much. *Smiles a little, then leans down and kisses her deeply*
Raven *boards The Brave,
makes his way to the cabin, stops short, grins when he sees Donnie and Grace kissing.
He clears his throat to let them know he’s there*
Grace *smiles* Aye, he were posin’ as Ichy’s highly unusual
parrot as it were. *Laughs as Donnie looks at her little confused* Long story, luv. *Turns to Raven* I s’pose ye want te see ye mother? *As she leads Raven
down to the brig* We ‘ad te luck her up fer own safety, she were a bit
out o’ it. I reckon she’d been drugged with something. *Looks at him, frowns* Weren’t Manouche comin’
over ‘ere?
Raven: Manouche an’ Mr. Blake decided to go home. She’d been gone a long time, even before all this, an’ … *pauses* … I
guess they had stuff they need to talk about. She said you have things under
control, an’ that you’d understand. *he pushes aside his fear about
whatever it was Manouche wasn’t telling him, brightens as he thinks of his mother*
I hope Mother’s all right, I can’t wait to see her.
Grace *nods; looks at him sympathetically* I’m sure yer mother will
jus’ fine soon as that drug is out o’ her system. *Doesn’t
share her worries about Manouche’s warning with him; smiles* Aye, I understand. I reckon ye an’ yer mother be needin’ a ride back te Deppville then. *Leads Raven to Kat’s cell, takes the large set of keys and unlocks the door,
letting him in.*
Raven *looks at Grace* Mrs. Brasco … I know Manouche
said something about trouble back home for you an’ Mr. Brasco. *shrugs* We don’t have to go right back home if you don’t want to. Now that I know Mother’s safe, that’s what I was most worried about. Father’ll be all right without us for awhile, Chiana always takes care of him. *he smiles slightly* It’s funny that that's not the
other way around, isn’t it? *he turns, enters the cell*
Grace *muttering quietly* It be wrong that it’s not the other way around … *smiles a little* It’s alright, Raven. Mr. Brasco an’ meself can
head out te sea again after bringin’ the two o’ ye back. *She leaves
Raven with Kat and goes back on deck; she finds Gibson* We be headin’ back
te Deppville, give the orders an’ lessen we be runnin’ into any sea-beasties, Mr. Brasco an’ I are not te
be disturbed.
Gibson *grins* Makin’ up fer lost time, eh?
Grace *glares at him* We ‘ave things te discuss … any other
marital affairs going on be none o’ ye business, savvy?
Gibson *quickly wipes the grin off his face* Aye, Captain. *He scurries off and gives orders to the crew*
Grace *returns to the cabin; smiles* We be on our way te Deppville in
no time, luv.
Donnie *frowns* Deppville? What
about the threat that had me fleeing our house?
Grace *sighs* Raven an’ Kat be needin’ a way te get back …
Raven did offer te go with us fer a while, but I don’t want te keep Kat from Chiana fer too long. I know he’s a mate, but I don’t trust Abberline te care fer the little one alone fer too long. An’ we can head out again soon as Kat an’ Raven are ashore.
Donnie: I wouldn’t trust Abberline’s parenting skills much
either. Going back with them is the right thing to do. *Looks at her with concern* What are we going to do? We can’t sail the seven seas forever … *smiles a little* Well, you could …
Grace *laughs* Aye, I could live with that. *Turns serious* But I also love our little home in the woods
… an’ I ‘ate the thought o’ someone keepin’ us away from it.
Donnie *Hesitates* I suppose we could go back. We’d have to be extremely careful … keep our eyes and ears open and try to find out more.
Grace *nods* Aye, I reckon that be a plan … not a very safe plan,
but a plan.
At Rartigillichal:
Jeanne Missoni *steps out
of the cab, tells him to wait and looks around her. Rartigillichal - what a very
weird name, but the place itself looks nice if you fancy that kind of old houses. She
walks through the yard and knocks on the door, though the house seems quiet. Maybe
no one is at home. She takes the note and folds it up, looking at the odd message
that makes no sense to her. Does he give his child away to this woman? Maybe it all is just some kind of cover job. You don't see
officers of law drugged on the streets every day. And he was acting very weird,
so she decided to play on, just for the reason she gave him: out of boredom. Maybe
this note is a code the recipient knows how to decipher? She shrugs, taps her
foot and knocks again*
Alifi *coming from the guest house, calls out* Hello! *she walks up to Jeanne* The Blakes aren’t here right now, I’m their friend Alifi.
*waves toward the guest house* I’m staying with them for awhile. Can I help you?
Jeanne: I think you can. When they come home, give this to them. *she shrugs* I don't exactly understand
what it means, but I met a funny chap, who was both drunk and drugged and seemed like he had had a fight, and he asked me
to deliver this. *distractedly* Nice,
but rather lonely, this place. Quite a way to the town. Doesn't it get boring here?
Alifi *laughs as she takes
the note* Boring? Believe me, miss,
the people who live here get plenty of excitement in their lives, much of it unsolicited.
It makes them appreciate this little haven all the more. *she looks around* It all depends on what you want in life. The
Blakes appreciate peace and quiet, and they love nature. If you’re more
keen on clubbing, and having restaurants at your fingertips, yes, it’s not the most convenient location. *she looks at the paper* Your description … that sounds
like it could be one of several people Manouche knows. No worries, I’ll
see that they get this. Would you care for something to drink, some coffee perhaps?
Jeanne *trying to be helpful* His police license said that he was Inspector Abberline, but I doubt he was an officer.
Why do you think he wanted rid of a kid of his? *she smiles at Alifi* I just love puzzles. So, what do you
do here not to get bored? Stare at the clouds in the sky? Drink coffee? Mow the lawn?
No, I want some action going on all the time. I just couldn't sit here
and watch days float by. But I guess I will have to be content with the coffee. *whispers* You don't happen to have any
illegal substances in your coffee? Or priceless coffee mugs last seen on Lady
Purfleet's salon?
Alifi: Ah, Inspector Abberline … yes, I know he and his wife are on the outs again. You’ve never met him before? Then you couldn’t
know that this is sort of routine with him. He and his wife will probably get
back together before too long. They fight, they part, he goes to From Hell Court,
and something always brings them back together. Not to worry. *holds up the note* I’ll be sure and deliver this, as
I said. *puts the note in her pocket, arches a brow at her* You don’t have to be content with plain coffee if you want something stronger. *smiles mysteriously* Follow me to the kitchen, I have just
the thing for you. *she unlocks the door, leads Jeanne into the main house, through
the hallway, past the living room, into the kitchen* Have a seat, dear. *Jeanne sits at the kitchen island while Alifi prepares coffee. She starts water boiling, sets out a French press, finds the grinder and pours beans into it. She opens a cabinet, reaches for a small corked bottle on a high shelf; opens it, sprinkles a little bit
of light brown powder into the beans, corks the bottle, puts it away. She grinds
the beans, pours the blend into the French press, turns to Jeanne* There, it’ll
be ready in a moment. I think you’ll find it to your liking. *sits down across from her* Tell me a little something about
yourself, miss … what’s your name, you can start with that.
Jeanne *cocks an eyebrow* I guess that explains a lot. *She
looks at Alifi making coffee, extremely curious* My name - oh, I really didn't
introduce myself! My name is Jeanne Missoni and I am an archaeologist. I suppose there's not much more about me that would interest you.
No family, but two divorces. Been living in many countries, and I could
say my home is where my backpack is. Except for those times when it gets lost
by the aviation companies who have a tendency to part luggage with the owner. That's
about all. What was that? That brown
stuff? *thrilled* Some drug so you
can rob me and throw my body in the water?
Alifi *laughs* If that’s what you want it to be. It’s just a
little something to give your coffee a kick, I think you’ll like it. *water
starts to boil, she jumps up, pours it into the press, brings the press to the island, grabs a couple of coffee cups from
the counter, brings them over. She also finds the sugar bowl, a small pitcher
of cream, spoons and napkins; sits back down* An archaeologist … well no
wonder you find these surroundings rather dull. You spend lots of time away from
civilization, you must be ready to kick up your heels a bit. Though I imagine
your work must be fascinating. What brought you here?
Jeanne *stirs quite a lot
of sugar in her coffee, the she lifts the cup and sniffs at it* Hm ... let's
have a taste, shall we? *she takes a sip and nods appreciatively* Nice ... Well I wish I could say it is fascinating, but in fact I tend to spend more time in an office
sorting papers and writing reports than on excavations. Sometimes even the excavations are dull, but I am really
looking up to this assignment I now have - there's an ancient stone circle here and a very intriguing cave that my fundraisers
want to me examine and evaluate. But I thought I'd have first some fun and get
to know the city. *she grins* I
rather liked From Hell Court. *she empties her cup and holds
it up* Can I have some more? Now
what's your story? Are you indigenous of this place? Is it as peaceful
and boring as it looks like?
Alifi *obligingly pours her
more coffee* Yes, I suppose those archaeological digs can try one’s patience,
unless there’s a discovery. I’m sure I would need the occasional
payoff to stick with it. *she nods* The
stone circle, that must be the one on Portsmith’s property. There are constant
speculations on how authentic it is, because, as you may or may not know, Portsmith is rather fond of doctoring her certifications
of authenticity on her treasures. She’s rather a legend in her own mind. *smiles, finds a cigarette, lights it; plays with her coffee cup, which she’s
yet to fill with any coffee* The cave, I don’t think I’m familiar
with it. Where is it located, and what are your sponsors telling you about it? If it’s fun you want, From Hell Court is certainly the place. There are also a few clubs, such as Badonkadonk, that you may find entertaining. *looks out the window* I still have my home in Fiji, but I’ve been here for awhile, and I’ll probably stay awhile longer.
It would appear I’m needed … *her voice trails off, then she turns, looks at Jeanne, shrugs* Yes, it’s quite dull here. You can find some excitement
in town, but here at Rartigillichal … dead boring, really, if I were you, I would run screaming. *looks at her closely* By the way, how are you, my dear? You’re looking a little flushed all of a sudden …
At Tortuga:
Corso *somewhat later, tries
in some way to get his eyes to open, he's not well at all and one of the wenches is half lying on him, and the other one on
the other side snuggles closer and grunts. Grunts? Nature of children, these girls, but he should have made them wash before they went to bed,
they simply reek. And the bed is uncomfortable too, it feels like straws
laid on bare earth. How come, the room didn't feel anything like this
when they brought him in. He could have sworn that the covers were of red
silk ... His reasoning is interrupted when one of the wenches grunts again an belches and the smell is so horrible it
stings in his eyes and makes him gag, but at the same time the other one sniffs his ear, then touches it with her tongue,
and finally sucks his earlobe so it hurts, and he winces and puts his eye on her hairy, coarse thick throat and looks
into a pair of extremely small benevolent pig eyes, and the instant the sight gets into his brain he's up and
out from the pig sty* Blasted! Blasted! *he dives in a water trough for horses and the water splashes high*
At From Hell Court:
Abberline *slams the door
shut to his small den at From Hell Court and sinks on the bed, lifting the bottle he is carrying to his lips, empties
the bottle and with force flings it into the corner, where it breaks into shards that fly in all directions* Faith and Hope be damned ... and all the world ...
*A spider descends
over his bed suspended by its web and seems to study him.*
On The Brave:
Raven *in the cell with Kat, looks at her* Mother? Mother, it’s me, Raven … how are you feeling? Can I do anything for you?
Kat *Stares
at Raven* A trap. *Grimaces in pain* A spider's web be like a trap. It be
practically invisible. Sometimes in unexpected places. Waiting for its prey. There be webs 'ere, child. *Struggling with words.* Go ..... *Suddenly still, she opens
her palm, revealing a spider resting on it. Staring at it as if she can see something
disturbing she becomes agitated.* Black widows eat their mates. Abby, no!! *Starts screaming*
Raven *eyes wide* Mother!! *he brings his hands to her shoulders, trying to
calm her down* Is Father in trouble? I
can go to him, I think we’re close enough, I could fly. But … I’m
afraid to leave you … Oh, Mother, what should I do?
Kat *Cradling
the spider gently, struggling to breathe. Gasps*
Go, go now .. *Doubles over with pain* Now!!
Raven *swallows, trembling,
thinks of his father and a vision flashes into his head … a room in From Hell Court, a broken bottle .. * Alright, Mother, I’ll go. *he turns, opens the cell
door, runs from the brig, up to the main deck, sees Gibson* Mr. Gibson, help!! *he runs up to him* Sir, please tell
Captain Brasco, I have to leave … Mother’s in a bad way, she should have someone look after her. I can’t explain more’n that, no time. *with that,
he steps back, starts to shimmer, quickly shifts into white raven; flaps his wings furiously, takes off from the deck, flying
toward Deppville at top speed*
Gibson *looks in amazement as Raven flies off* By the powers … an’
I thought the Captain were special. *He shakes his head and goes to the cabin;
knocks carefully at the door*
Grace *opens the door, glares at him* I thought I said not te disturb
me.
Gibson *shrinks a little under her glare* Aye, that ye did, Captain, but
the boy jus’ … he flew off in the direction o’ Deppville, said he had te, an’ that someone should
look after his mother.
Grace *grows concerned* I see … *turns to Donnie* I best go see te Kat. *To Gibson* Get us te Deppville fast as ye can.
Gibson *nods* Aye, Captain. Full
speed ahead …
Grace *suddenly spots Ichy and approaches him* Mate, Kat needs someone
te keep an eye on her, I reckon ye be the man fer the job.
Ichy *still out of breath* Who? Me?
Yes, please, lock me into the brig. *And he faints*
Grace *shakes her head* Weakling o’ a man … *Calls out* Thomas, be a good lad an’ do as the man said … *grins* … lock ‘im
up in the brig with Kat. *Thomas drags Ichy down to the brig and into Kat’s
cell; locks the door behind him*
Ichy *the first thing he
sees is Kat cradling a horrible 8-legged-freak the name of which he can't even think about without screaming, he flies up
and against the bars, trying to get out, but as there is no way, he faints again and falls with a sickening thud*
Kat *Stares
at him in bewilderment then removing the blanket from the cot and rolling it up in a bundle. She
places it under his head. Touches his face briefly before returning to the cot
to lay down after gently placing the spider upon the pillow beside her head she falls fast asleep.*
At Bournemouth House:
Chiana
*smashes her palm right into the porridge and sets it flying all around the kitchen, pouting*
Candy
*lowers the spoon in despair, not knowing what to do with her. She is not crying
anymore, but she's sullen and refuses to eat anything else than milk. She sleeps
fitfully and she is restless even in her lap, writhing herself free as soon as she can.* Darling, you must eat. *She knows she is not sounding very
convincing. She has performed her strongest spell to keep Chiana from wasting all
her power with her parents, but now she's beginning to have doubts whether she is doing more harm than good to the
poor baby. She lifts her from the chair and, with a sigh, reaches for the bottle*
At From Hell Court:
Abberline *muttering in his
dream* Kat? What's wrong with you?
*he reaches over to her, but there's no one beside him, and the only thing his
arms catch is a dirty pillow; he cradles it and drifts off again*
At Isabella’s / the beach:
Isabella *turns off the alarm clock while muttering something incomprehensible; she hasn’t been up this early
in a very long time … in fact, she’s more likely to go to bed now instead. She
drags herself to the bathroom and starts to get ready; she’s meeting Officer Hanson at the beach for a jog. On her first day at the Security Office he explained her about the various written, oral, and practical
tests she’ll have to pass to earn the title as officer, including a physical fitness test. She doesn’t feel that out of shape, but she also knows it would be extremely stupid to take such a
test without training for it. And Hanson was kind enough to offer to keep her
company. Based on the first time she met him in From Hell Court, she expected
him to be rather annoying, but he’s really just a nice guy trying to do his job well. Isabella
finishes getting ready and leaves her apartment heading for the beach. When reaching
the beach she quickly spots Hanson waiting for her with a cup of coffee in one hand and drinking from another cup; walks up
to him* Please tell me that other cup of coffee is for me!
Hanson *grins and hands her the cup* Good morning to you too.
Isabella *takes a sip* Now it’s a good morning! *They start walking along the beach while drinking coffee and warming up gently. They talk comfortably while walking; mostly about what goes on at the office and police-work in general.
He seems easy to talk to and every now and then when they talk things slip out;
things she doesn’t usually talk about, but now seem natural to add to the conversation … things about her mother*
Hanson *stops and looks at her quizzically* I’ve noticed that you
talk about your mom in past tense … is she …?
Isabella *Hesitates* She was killed in a car-crash when I was 15 …
*stubbornly blinks away tears* She raised me alone and we were very close and
then … and then she was gone. I went to live with my dad and half-sister
after that … *sits down in the sand* Maybe it’s because things haven’t
exactly been great lately, but it feels like everything’s been a mess since.
Hanson *sits down next to her; sympathetically* I’m very sorry …
my dad was shot in the line of duty when I was in high school … I was waiting for him to pick me and my date up from
a dance when two of colleagues came to tell me.
Isabella *is quiet for a while, then turns and looks at him* Did you …
act out, too? I mean, I … *runs a hand through her hair* I was angry and since I couldn’t take it out on her, I took it out on everyone else around me. My dad really should get a medal for putting up with me. I was horrible … *laughs a little with a hint of bitterness* Still
am …
Hanson *nods* I was angry for a while too … but not at my dad, I
was angry at the man who shot him. Guess that’s why I became a cop …
You’re not horrible, you just … have issues. My mom sent me to see
a shrink so I suppose I dealt with it. As much as one can deal with such things.
Isabella: Yeah, my dad sent me to a shrink too. But it didn’t help much. I found out what he wanted to
hear and so I told him just that. I just wanted to be left alone. *Takes a long
pause again* I never really … *feels tears pressing on again, takes a deep
breath* I never dealt with it. I
buried it as deep as I could … in fact, I think you’re the first person I’ve talked to about it.
Hanson: Better late than never, I guess. It’s
not healthy to bury feelings like that.
Isabella *quietly* I know … Could we stop talking now and go for
that run? Before I start wailing like a baby?
Hanson *looks at her; softly* You know, it’s OK to cry when you’re
sad.
Isabella *fights to keep it in; she’s so tired of crying, but as much as she fights, the tears still roll down
her cheeks; sobs* I just miss her so much!
Hanson *moves closer and puts his arm around her shoulders; comforting* I
know …
At From Hell Court:
Raven *flying
as hard as he can across the sea, tries not to think too much about the horrible picture of Abberline in that dark, tiny room. He tries not to think about the fact that he hardly knows which way to turn, with
both of his parents seemingly in grave danger. He feels his wings start to ache,
he knows he’s growing weary, he hopes he can make it. Just as he’s
starting to worry and wonder where he’s going to land for a rest, he looks up ahead and is greatly relieved to see the
Deppville horizon. The sight gives him an extra burst of energy, and he flaps
harder, a light wind whipping up and working to his advantage. At last, he reaches
the shore, and he swoops above the town; he’s never been happier to see the familiar sights – Grape’s, the
town centre, the docks, Chez Roux … Bournemouth House … he continues on, toward From Hell Court, and now he concentrates
and lets himself sense his father’s whereabouts, to better guide him in the right direction, toward the little room
he otherwise would know nothing about. Gradually, he nears the right location,
he can sense it. He swoops downward, to the street, lands just outside a narrow
alleyway; he feels certain that Abberline’s little den is just down this dark corridor.
He starts to shimmer, but he’s interrupted in shapeshifting, and he chirps a protest as he feels himself swept
into a canvas bag, still in raven form … *
Ama *swings
the bag, brings it down to the pavement. She shows no emotion, performing the
act in a zombie state. She barely reacts to a harsh voice that hisses at her:*
Leta: You fool! Not so hard, you’ll kill
him! We only want him knocked out. *She
emerges from the shadows, looking very much like she did when Malachi and Elliott first saw her on the islands, before she
had been changed to a horrible creature, before she had impersonated Manouche – a beautiful, dark, mysterious island
woman. She grabs the bag away from Ama, looks inside; she brings a graceful hand
into the bag, gently presses fingertips against the little feathered chest* It’s
all right, he’s fine, just unconscious. *she ties up the bag securely,
looks around to make sure they’re not being observed, turns to Ama* Come,
we must get back to Marchand. *she grins a very unpleasant grin* Now he’ll have your heart, and one of Kat’s children.
That leaves only one more ingredient. *Ama says nothing, registers no
emotion. She’s no longer the spirit of the loving mother and grandmother;
she’s now completely in Marchand’s control. She looks at Leta with
a docile expression, and follows her as they slink into the dark alleys, virtually unnoticed by the crowds in the Court.
They make their way through passageways and little-used pathways, back to the hideout where Marchand is waiting*
*And on The Libertine Trailer:*
Manouche *standing
at the helm of the ship, the wind blowing her hair, winces and grips the wheel tightly as she feels a horrific thud to the
side of her head; she groans, slumps to the deck unconscious, her hands sliding from the wheel.*
Blake *just
emerging from below, sees her lying on the deck, runs to her, crouches down beside her*
Manouche! Honey … *he shakes her, but she’s out cold. He rises, secures the wheel so the ship isn’t out of control, then bends down
to examine her. He gets no response from her; deeply worried, he scoops her up
in his arms, carries her to the main cabin*
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