|
At Portsmith’s office:
Jeanne *approaches the male
secretary who seems to have been chosen solely on his looks, because he is reading 'Hot Pirate Wenches'. She peeks curiously at the page he's staring at* Don't drool
over the page, mate, you will spoil it. Me, if there's pics of pirates in the
nude to be stared at, would prefer Jack. *she grins as he drops the mag*
Charlie
*looks her up and down, sums her soon as not interesting. Sand blonde hair in
a loose tangled ponytail, jeans and a white loose t-shirt revealing nothing, loafers. Her
face is pleasant, but she is not a great beauty, she has no make-up and there are some wrinkles near the eyes, and her skin
is far from flawless. She looks like she has been too much out in the sun* State your business. Who are you?
Jeanne
*unperturbed by his inspection, not caring a bit about the results* Jeanne Missoni.
I need to see Commander Portsmith. Tell
her that the future of Deppville is at stake.
Charlie *rises up languidly, saunters off to Portsmith's door, knocks
and enters* Commander, here's a lady wanting to see you. She wants to put a stake through the future of Deppville.
Portsmith: Show
her in. As it happens, I do have spare time just now. *when Charlie turns to go, she darts up and quickly pulls the curtains on the wonderful painting called
'Empress Portsmith'. It's not yet time for it to be revealed*
Charlie:
You can go in.
Jeanne *smiles brightly* Thanks.
*she enters the room without knocking, but stops right at the doorstep. Some office ... First, it's large as a dancing hall. Second,
it's decorated by paintings and statues, some of which she actually saw last in a museum. They
must be fakes. The floor is of marble. There
is a huge aged desk that seems somewhat familiar to her, and behind it a thronelike chair, and the wall is covered by dark
red velvet curtains falling down to the floor heavily draped. And beside the
curtain stands probably the Commander herself, because there is no one else in the vast room. She
is a sight, clad in black leather, fishnet stockings - yes, you can see they are stockings, the skirt is more than mini, and
high heeled sharp-toed black boots* Er, the Commander herself, I presume?
Portsmith
*takes her seat behind her desk* What is it you want? I am extremely busy with running the whole town of Deppville.
Jeanne: I can see that, Commander. That's why I am turning to you. *she takes out a paper from
her backpack, a copy of the parchment she made after deciphering its most interesting contents* What do you make of this? *she puts the paper in front of her,
watching intently for her reaction.*
At the warehouses:
Isabella *smiles at Armacost,
even though she's still suspicious of him* Perhaps ... have a good day, Commander. *Once Armacost has left, she turns to Abberline*
I didn't like him ... something was off about him. If nothing else, anyone sneaking around out here must
be up to something. Or at least that's my theory.
Abberline *feels a totally
unexpected sting of jealousy when Isabella smiles at the man, but he stifles it fast. He
must be getting out of his mind, kissing her like that, though she tempted him* He
was strange ... *frowns* But maybe he was just looking for a warehouse. We have to check him and his company later. But
if the doctors were not waiting for him, then whom did they wait for? *cautiously
he peeks to the empty road, but quickly returns to the protecting shadows of the alley* Listen,
maybe that is the one they have an appointment with ... *A moment later the walker
comes to their view. It's Salome … *
Isabella: Yeah, we'll
have to look into that guy; I got a bad feeling from him ... *she's about to say more when she spots the
woman walking towards the warehouse. Her mouth drops. She's seen the picture of that exact woman in the obituaries. Whispers
as they watch her approach the warehouse* Isn't she supposed to be dead?
Daphne *approaching
the warehouses, shivers slightly, brings her arms around her; she wonders which one is the one where Salome was murdered.
She turns toward one at random, then a movement catches her eye; she turns to look at the alley and she sees Abberline,
with two other people she doesn't recognize. She starts toward him, then remembers how things were left between them.
She stops, unsure of what to do, because she knows they've seen her. Feeling a little foolish, she smiles slightly,
waves, calls out with as much dignity in her voice as she can muster* Good evening, Inspector. *and she turns
back to the warehouses, again heading toward one of the random doors -- which, unbeknownst to her, just happens to be the
one Salome had owned*
Abberline *it takes him a
while to react to the voice, she was so much like Salome that he felt the chills down his spine* Stop right were you are. *he slowly walks to her with the
gun in his hands* Going to see your friends, Daphne? They have been already waiting for you ... *then drops the soft tone*
You set me up, you bloody tart! You called them and pushed me out to be
threatened and beaten by your friends!
Isabella *keeps to the background
as she senses that this is some personal grudge; she is however instantly tempted to side with the woman without
knowing the details, after experiencing first hand how Abberline reacts to women and his way of jumping to conclusions*
Daphne *smile fades, she
frowns at him. Instead of answering him, she turns to look at Isabella, who still
stands some distance away. She speaks to her*
My name is Daphne. Salome was my cousin.
I’ve come out here to try to … well … actually, I don’t know why I’m here, I …
I guess I just needed to see where it happened … *she glances back toward the warehouses, then turns once again to Isabella* If you want to know any more about me, speak with Sergeant Godley. He knows everything, and *glances regretfully at Abberline, then back to Isabella* he’s a gentleman. *she turns away, continues on toward the warehouse*
Isabella *goes after Daphne;
smiles* Hello Daphne, I'm Isabella Martin ... I'm a recruit at the Security
Office. *Sympathetically* I understand, you don't need to explain,
but be careful. We saw two men enter the warehouse and according to Abberline,
they are the ones ... the ones who killed your cousin. I don't think it's a good
idea to go in there. I understand your need to be here, but for your own safety ...
Daphne *looks
at the warehouses, then back to Isabella* They … they’re here? Now? He’s sure they’re the
ones? *voice anguished* And you’re
both standing here doing nothing? Why don’t you arrest them? Or call for reinforcements, or something! *starts to cry,
trying to apologize* I – I’m sorry, Miss Martin, I'm sure you're
doin' your best. It just seems like nobody cares at all about what happened, ‘cept Sergeant Godley. An’ … no one’s tellin’ me anything, I didn’t even know
the killers had been identified! *she nods toward Abberline* I know he hates me, he thinks I did something, it has to do with some men who were at Chez Roux one night. They caught me, an’ they beat me up, an’ they warned me to stop snooping
around, an’ they said to tell Inspector Abberline the same thing. *she
looks at the warehouse again, then turns to Isabella, her eyes wide* Oh, I wonder
if it’s those same two men? I – I guess you’re right, I shouldn’t
be here. I’ll go back to Chez Roux, I don’t wanna get in the way
of your work. But be careful … if it’s those same guys, they were
real mean.
Abberline: What? They beat you?
But ... Look, Daphne, I was sure it was you, right after you turned me out, they caught me and beat me up ... What
do you expect me to do? Bust in and shoot them?
They have not been officially identified, I saw them in a vision, when they were burying the body, but I don't have
any kind of proof. It's standard police work, Daphne. *and he glances at Isabella.* As is keeping the mouth shut
to outsiders, Martin. Those are not the men that you encountered. The killers of Salome are some people you do know well. Dr.
Marbury and Dr. Rainey.
Isabella *rolls her eyes*
She's not an outsider, she's the victim's family. *Turns to Daphne* You don't need to apologize; it's perfectly
natural to be upset about it. Especially if no one has given you any
information. *Smiles a little* Although, to my knowledge, they didn't
have much information to give you.
Daphne *nods slowly, eyes
wide* I do remember those doctors, from the hospital. Th-they killed Salome? *she starts to feel dizzy; the thought
of her cousin’s murderers being men she actually knows is too much for her* I
– I’m sorry. *turns to Isabella*
Miss Martin, w-would you please call a taxi for me? I … I’m
afraid I … *she sinks down to the ground* I’m afraid I feel kinda
faint … I’m so sorry to cause trouble …
Abberline: There you see, Martin, the good of giving information ... *thinks of the little pink phone thingie DeeDee
gave him and decides there are better options than calling the taxi himself* Call
a taxi, I'll take her back to Chez Roux. *he crouches down by Daphne, looking
at her worried* We have to deal with the doctors later.
Isabella: Yeah, yeah … *takes out her cell phone; to Daphne* Take a deep breath … *speaks to the taxi dispatch* Hello, Isabella Martin. I need a taxi to pick someone up out
by the warehouses …yes, that’s right. Thank you. *To Daphne* The taxi is on the way. *to Abberline* In light of today’s events, I think it’ll
be best if you and I don’t work together; not that there would be a repeat … but let’s face it, it’s
a bad idea. I’ll go back to the Security Office and let the Chief know.
Daphne *looks
at them both, confused. Upset, she tries to keep her voice low* Oh no, you mustn’t leave! What if they get away! *to Abberline* Please, Freddie, I’m
truly sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt your work. I don’t wanna
get you an' Miss Martin in trouble at the Security office. Stay an’
catch those terrible men. *to Isabella*
I’ll be okay, honest. It might even be DeNiro drivin’ the
taxi … he knows I’m in town, he’ll help me.
Isabella *reassuringly* We won’t get in trouble, I’m sure
of it … *glances at Abberline* I guess it’s up to you then …
Abberline: That doesn't matter, Daphne. We don't have enough against them
to arrest them, it's just that I - I happen to know. Donnie will not be impressed
by that. No judge would. *he smiles
very ironically* And I doybt they will just be waiting for us meekly after all
the noise we have made. The warehouse is empty. There's
nothing more for us to do here. *he helps her gently up* I hope you aren't hurt. When you get back, don't forget to
lock the doors. *he glances at Isabella annoyed that she had to speak up before
outsiders, soon she will be blurting it all over town ... * Martin, I do have
to have some words with you.
Daphne *swallows,
wipes her eyes* Well … thank you both, very much. *she holds onto Abberline’s arm for a moment, then stands on her own. She looks at him gratefully* I’m all right, I think. *she sees
the cab approaching* Here comes my taxi.
I can just take it back to Chez Roux by myself, if you two need to … to talk.
At the Security office:
Hanson *sits in the small media room of the Security Office going through the security cameras covering the alley where
the pirate was found hoping that the murder happened within the cameras’ view.
He and Donnie didn’t find much to go on at the scene and the only statement with any useful information was from
a waitress claiming she saw the pirate having a drink with a man. The man has
yet to be identified; they took the waitress to the office and let her look through the archive of mug-shots, but she found
no one resembling the mysterious man. Going through the films is almost as tedious
as doing paperwork and Hanson finds it hard to concentrate; his thoughts constantly goes back to Isabella wondering what she
and Inspector Abberline are doing. Despite Donnie’s reassurances he’s
still not comfortable with the two of them working together … especially because he hasn’t heard a word from Isabella
since she left the burn-site with the Inspector the day before. Before she teamed
up with Abberline, she and Hanson talked to each other all day at the Office and sometimes even talked on the phone in the
evening or spend time together. He’s mostly afraid that Donnie’s
plan worked … that Abberline and Isabella found a way of getting along and won’t stick to the original plan of
only working together for two days. Abberline may be annoying, but he does have
a certain way with women and he worries that he’ll never measure up if Isabella starts to compare him to Abberline …
or Sands for that matter. He’ll once again be the baby-faced puppy that’s
fine for confiding in, but not exciting enough for romance. He sighs heavily
and tries once again to focus on the films; suddenly he sees something of interest … the pirate woman moves into the
view of the camera along with a man. The man is standing close to her with his
back towards the camera. It’s difficult to see what he’s doing, but
suddenly the woman falls lifelessly to the ground. The man turns with menacing
smile on his face as he wipes the blade of what appears to be a barber’s knife.
Hanson freezes the frame and prints the image. He takes the printout and
hurries into Donnie’s office.* Chief, we have our suspect. *Hands the print-out to Donnie.*
Donnie *looks at the man in the picture; he doesn’t recognize him* Good
… any idea who he is?
Hanson *shakes his head* Afraid not … but I’ll go through
the mug shots and see if anything comes up.
Donnie *nods* Good … *hands the picture back* Good work.
Hanson: Thanks. *Turns to leave, then faces Donnie again* Heard anything from Inspector Abberline today?
Donnie *smirks a little* You mean, Isabella? No, I haven’t … the Inspector is not one to check in unless he has something to complain about
and I suspect Isabella won’t check in either unless she has a reason. May
I make a suggestion?
Hanson *expecting some sort of lecture on how he should concentrate on work*
Yes …
Donnie *smiles friendly* Call her tonight … or go visit her. Send her flowers … something to let her know where your head’s at.
Hanson *smiles a little* Right.
*turns and goes back to the media room to continue work and plan on what to do about Isabella.*
At Vice Mayor Lisa’s:
Lisa *to Cesar* You make a good point. You can bet she would do that. *thinks for a moment* I have an idea;
I trust Corey. He'd never tell a soul.
Why don't I give him a call? *another idea crosses her mind, and a devious smile comes to her face* I have an even better idea. Why don't we just get married
here? We can go out to the meadow behind the stables. I'm sure we can convince Aaron to come here and perform the service!
Besides, with Corey as our witness, he can bring all the necessary papers from my office. *she smiles at him* What do you think? *she then reaches over and playfully takes the roll from him and pops the remainder of it in
her mouth*
Cesar *smiles* Perfect. More and more I see why you’re
Vice Mayor. *he finishes his coffee, leans over, kisses her cheek* You call Corey, I’ll call Aaron. Then later, we can
have any sort of celebration you want that involves the whole town. But the wedding
will be just for us. *he brings his arms around her, kisses her slowly, gazes
into her eyes, smiles* Cinnamon becomes you, trésor
…
Lisa *smiles at him as he
kisses her cheek* Thank you, love. Yes,
I'll call Corey and have him come over this evening. Let's marry out on the gazebo,
right at sunset. It'll be so perfect! Don't
you think? As far as a public celebration, I'll give it some thought. *as he gathers her in his arms, she melts under his touch. She
tries to shake it off* Cesar, if we don't get up and make our calls, we'll end
up here for hours. Not that it's such a bad thing ... *gazes back at him* Okay,
I'm getting up now. *she gathers up her clothing, dresses, and goes to the
kitchen to find her cell phone. Sees the cigarettes on the counter; grabs one
and lights it. She dials up Corey's cell, waiting for him to answer.*
Corey: Hello, Vice Mayor. What can I do for you?
Lisa: Corey, how many times do I have to tell you, please call me Lisa. *rolls
her eyes* Listen, I have some news for you. Cesar
and I have decided to marry this evening here at the house. I need you
to find all the necessary papers for the marriage. Oh, and also –
Corey, I hope it won't be too uncomfortable, but we'd love for you to be our witness. Are
you okay with that?
Corey *hesitates to answer*
Uh, sure. I'd be honored.
Lisa: Are you sure? I don't want to ask you to do anything that you
don't feel comfortable doing. I just thought of you because I trust you. We'd like to keep this under wraps for now. If
it's a problem, I'll understand.
Corey: No, it's not a problem. Really, I'm cool with it. Whatever
I can do to make you, and Cesar happy. Is this what you want?
Lisa *sudden feels bad
for him. After all, they do have quite a past* Yeah, Corey. This is what I want. I adore him so much, and he's good to
me. It was awful when we were broken up. He's
the one ... you understand?
Corey: As much as I hate to admit it, I do understand. I'm happy for
you. And yeah, I'll be there. What
time do you need me?
Lisa: Corey, you are a wonderful guy. I couldn't manage without you.
Well, I hadn't thought about a time. Hmmm,
I suppose around 8:30?
Corey: 8:30 it is. I'll be sure to bring all
the paperwork. Have you contacted Aaron?
Lisa: Cesar is taking care of that. Thanks so much Corey. I really appreciate it! I'll see you this evening.
Corey: Sure thing. See you then!
Lisa *hangs up the cell,
stomps out the cigarette in the ashtray. She doesn't have a clue what to wear
for the wedding. And what about rings?! She
has a simple silver band that she'd bought for Cesar, just in case he ever asked her to marry him. Her mind starts racing … so many details, so little time! She
looks up at the clock; it's early afternoon already. Nervous suddenly, she lights
another cigarette; stares out the back door to the gazebo.*
At the warehouses:
Isabella *to Daphne, dryly* It’s called shouting … but he’s
right, we don’t have any back-up and they must have heard us by now. *Glances
at Abberline; she knows he’s annoyed that she told Daphne what’s going on, but she doesn’t feel that she
did anything wrong … it is after all a relative to the victim and it’s better that Daphne knows that it’s
not safe to wander around out here.*
Abberline *helps Daphne into
the taxi, and watches DeNiro speed away, looks at Isabella from a safe distance* Thanks
for that. At least you admit that I am right about something. Listen, I am not going to shout and I hope that you won't either.
I won't apologize to you. I know that it sounds pathetic, but I've had
a hard time. I don't know about your love affairs or relationships, but mine
is all a mess. What I have done is so horrible and inexcusable that I can't even
tell about it. And now you are going to say that it's no reason to dump it all
on you. But you - you got on my nerves, I dislike you as much as you dislike
me, and still, I can't deny I was attracted. Maybe there was something that reminded
me of her ... I think that's all. I am going home and I suggest you do the same.
Isabella *smiles slightly* I’m not going to shout either …
as it turns out we have something in common after all; my love-life is usually messed up too.
*Lowers her eyes* That’s why it really got to me what you said about
scaring nice men off, because … well, you might be right. I have yet to
be in a relationship with a so-called nice man and … and the one nice man that I could possibly fall for … what
you said made me think that maybe he’d better off if I stayed away and that hurt.
*Quickly adds as he’s about to speak* I’m not looking for
an apology; I’m just trying to explain why you got on my nerves. I might
have been able to ignore your comments about women and my abilities to do the job if you hadn’t already gotten to me. *Shakes her head* And despite all that,
I was still attracted. *Laughs a little*
We make an odd pair! *Turns serious again*
I am sorry that you’re in pain; I know how guilt feels … a little too well.
*Nods* Going home sounds like a grand idea.
Abberline *smirks self-consciously*
I understand why you felt attracted to me. *he
sighs* I suppose I belong to the category of not nice men. *he gazes at her and she meets her eyes* You are a beautiful
woman, but you are damaged ... *nervously he lights a cigarette, realizing that he hasn't had one in a long while, maybe that's
why he was so edgy. He inhales the smoke deeply.* I'd rather go to the den than home. Kat is not there anymore,
and I dread to look at Chiana, because of the .... *he swallows and suddenly decided to confide in her, despite all that has
happened between them, and despite her being a reporter* I have a baby on the
way. Not with Kat. With her sister.
*He feels an immediate relief flooding over him, it doesn't matter how she reacts,
he got it out for the first time. She dislikes him enough again, so it doesn't
matter. And she is a stranger to him.*
Isabella *thinks to herself that the truth really does hurt; quietly* Yeah,
I suppose that was the reason … darkness and danger do seem to be drawn to you and I tend to be drawn to darkness and
danger. *Laughs, but there is a bitterness to it*
I can’t even argue with it! I am so utterly messed up! *Listens to him as he tells her of the baby with Metrea; she’s a little surprised at his sudden willingness
to share with her, but her heart goes out to him. Briefly touches his arm* I’m sorry that you have to go through that … I know how much you care
about your family; I’ve seen you with Chiana. *She takes out a pack of
cigarettes and lights one; inhales and blows out the smoke* You know, sometimes
it seems like there’s not even a point in trying to improve … I even … *hesitates* I shouldn’t tell you this, so I’m hoping that I can count on your discretion. I was so desperate for someone good and decent that when Grace was gone, I caught myself hoping that she
wouldn’t return. *Adds* Which
is ridiculous, because I don’t even have feelings for Donnie. *To her annoyance
tears fill her eyes* I just wish … *sighs*
I just want to be a little happy … or at least not miserable. And
the thing is, I’m usually the reason why I’m miserable. I can’t
even blame anyone else. *Takes a deep breath*
Sorry for my ranting … look, this is not some desperate attempt to seduce you or anything. No alternative motives, but I do have a bottle of brandy at my place and you’re welcome to share
it with me.
Abberline *listens to her,
looking on the ground, it's like he felt before, there's much similarity between them*
You don't have to explain more to me, I understand too well what you mean. Oh,
I am great in messing up everything. That how it goes for me too, I have none
other than myself to blame ... *he nods*
Yeah, brandy would be fine before I dare to go home.
Isabella *nods* Alright then … *with a mischievous smile* You’d think we’d get along better with all we have in common.
*she leads them to From Hell Court to her apartment*
At the Security office:
Cavalcanti *marches into
the office and stops at DeeDee's desk.* Sweetheart, I could not sleep at night
when I started thinking about this mess with Salome. I need to have a word with
Chief Inspector. Will you announce me.
*While DeeDee goes to Donnie, he takes his daughter's mirror lying on the desk and checks himself. Everything is as it should be. He is wearing a black slightly
shiny dress - cotton weaved with some silver threads, not quite enough to be pinstripe, a black shirt with no tie, the inevitable
designer stubble that it takes so much work to make it look casual. He has a
silver watch with a blue face and no digits and a silver hoop in one earlobe. He
ruffles his hair a bit, then sighs contentedly and puts the mirror away.*
DeeDee: Donnie,
er .. Chief Inspector, there is … *she stops to think for a while how to announce his father so that Donnie would understand
the importance of this visit. Daddy does not socialize with anyone else than
Lady Dragon in this town* … my father, Guido Cavalcanti, you know, he's the famous fashion designer and he's very unhappy
about this case with Salome ...
Donnie *it’s late in the day and when he wasn’t working on the murder case, he was doing paper-work. He’s about ready to call it a day and go home to Grace when DeeDee enters his
office* Well, you better send him in then … oh and could you bring us some
coffee, please? Thanks. *He sighs
heavily after she’s gone; he’s really not up for servicing discontented citizens – even those related to
a murder victim with perfectly justifiable complaints.*
DeeDee *flutters her lashes
at him* Of course, dear! * She walks
back to her Daddy.* He's waiting for you.
Cavalcanti: Good. I do have to say, DeeDee, that I was very anxious when
you took this job, but I am relieved to see that you haven't lost your fashion sense and style. He must be very proud to have a secretary like you. *without
knocking, he enters Donnie's room and takes the seat* Chief Inspector, I have
to make a complaint about your Office.
Donnie: Mr. Cavalcanti, I understand that it is hard to wait for a conclusion
on your daughter’s case, but I assure that I have my best officers working on the case. As
for the situation at the morgue, I’m afraid that’s not as such my jurisdiction and I have filed a formal complaint.
Cavalcanti: But it was your officers who were responsible for keeping the body of pure Salome at the morgue, and that
is why I hold the office responsible for the theft. It also seems to me that
this investigation is just dragging on. And that is not all I have to say. Yesterday we raised a very expensive monument to her memory at the churchyard, and
today, it has been vandalized! The unique and costly statue has been torn from
its standing and left lying on the grave. What are we coming to when even the
dead may not rest in peace! I demand immediate action! *and he hits with his fist on the desk* I will have to complain
to Commander Portsmith.
DeeDee *brings in the little silvery tray with two brand new silver colored cups. They don't stand very firmly, and the handle is too tiny to get a grip on, but they are the latest from
Individual Esthetics, cups that everyone is drooling after. She managed to get
this pair through a friend in the fashion circles, trading them for some enhanced ghost tranq which she found locked up in
the evidence room* There you are, Chief Inspector, Daddy. *she carefully puts down the cups, admiring them, proud of her Dad's approving gaze* Black, no sugar, extra blend of Brazilian coffee.
Donnie *calmly, but firmly* Mr. Calvalcanti, I’m going to have to
ask you to calm down and remind you that you are talking to an officer who does not care how big a name you are in the fashion
world. If you get out of line, I will have to arrest you and let you cool off
in a cell. I do understand that you’re upset and it was indeed a regrettable
incident, but I cannot have my staff stand guard at the morgue. It was the staff
at the morgue who failed to check the ID of the person stealing the body; it is not my officers’ task. As for the case, we really cannot do much without any leads. There
were no witnesses to the crime and no clues at the scene. We are not fortune-tellers,
Mr. Cavalcanti. But if you wish to file a formal complaint to the Commander,
I’m sure DeeDee will be more than happy to guide you to her office. *In
a slightly friendlier tone* I will of course see to it that an officer investigates
the cemetery.
Cavalcanti: Really, I have rarely seen something so horrible as attacking a grave! I
will have to sue the hospital and I hope that you give a warning to those officers who let it happen. You still didn't answer why the body was kept so long at the morgue instead of being given to grieving relations.
*he shakes his head and takes a sip of the coffee, having problems in replacing
the cup back on the tray without spilling any of its contents. But he still has
to admire the cups. Very trendy, not something you expect to see at a security
office. One would think they'd go for styrofoam. Maybe
Brasco isn't so bad after all* I must apologize, Chief Commander, but you don't
know what great emotional stress and strain I have been under these past weeks. I
had to cancel a fashion show in Cote
D'Azur ...
Donnie *sighs a little impatiently* As I explained, it is procedure to
keep the body at the morgue in case forensics need to examine it further for any clues or evidence. *Forces a smile* I am sorry for your uh … loss.
At Rartigillichal:
Kat *Having
awakened at Rartigillichal despite her hangover, drags herself out of bed and slips away. There's no other
choice now. Even if she somehow managed to snatch the babe from Metrea when the
time came. She has nothing now to offer the child, not even a roof over her head.
She has to make Abby see his duty. She
won't allow history to repeat itself. Chiana and Raven's sister can't be
raised full of hatred and jealousy for them. Somehow she must convince Abby
of that, no matter what it takes. Makes her way to Bournemouth House but hesitates
to enter; fingering the ring on her finger. If push comes to shove, she'd fling
the ring into the ocean, breaking the protection that keeps safe Chiana from separation from her.*
Manouche *gazing
out the window of her bedroom, somehow isn’t surprised when she sees Kat leave.
She considers calling out to her or going after her, but she feels that’s not the thing to do, that Kat wouldn't
want it. She watches her make her way somewhat unsteadily away from the house. When she’s out of sight, Manouche sighs deeply, leaves the room, goes downstairs
to Blake’s office, where he’s writing. She stands in the doorway,
shakes her head, smiles* All work an’ no play, love …
Blake *looks
up, grins* I don’t know if I would ever stop if someone didn’t check
in on me once in awhile. *he stretches, takes off his glasses, rubs his eyes* Did I hear someone come in?
Manouche: Ye heard someone leave. Kat.
Blake *looks
at her, surprised* Kat! She’s
here all this time, unconscious, then she wakes up and takes off without even sayin’ anything to anyone?
Manouche *shrugs* That’s Kat.
Blake: Is she all right? Are you sure we should
let her go? Where do you think she's going?
Manouche: If me guess is right, I’d say she’s goin’ to Bournemouth House. Her children ‘ave to be a powerful draw.
I imagine she’s a bit weak, but she knows what she’s capable of.
She wouldn’t ‘ave left if she couldn’t handle it. *smirks* No point tryin’ to tell Kat what’s best fer ‘er, savvy? I’ve felt that shovel, an’ I ain’t anxious t’ feel it again! *pauses* How ‘bout some coffee?
Blake *nods* I'd love some, if you'll join me. It’s
time I took a break, and I’d like to have you read some of what I’ve been workin’ on. *he pauses, thinks for a moment* I remember an Indian saying
I heard from Nobody, “Love with an open hand.” That seems to suit
Kat.
Manouche: She needs her breathin’ room, an’ that’s a fact. I’ll be back in two shakes t’ read. An’
then we need t’ be decidin’ on a proper celebration fer Chírilo.
Blake *looks
up, smiles broadly* Ah, you talked to her!
Is she …
Manouche *smiles
happily* Aye, she’s keen. Looks
like we’re parents, love. *she comes over to him, brings her arms around
him, they kiss* Now ‘ang on, I’ll be right back t’ read yer
latest masterpiece.
Blake: From your mouth to some high-payin’ publisher’s ears. *Manouche laughs, leaves the room, heads for the kitchen to make coffee*
At the Barries’ house:
Elliott *grabs
another cookie, taking care to keep it far away from the dogs; to Barrie* Y’know, once Dawn an’ I have a house of our own, I
want to get her a dog. We’ve been staying at Manouche an’ Blake’s
house, which has been nice. Dawn loves those horses, and that crazy parrot. *glances at Dawn, who’s showing Emma how they can teach Porthos how to sit up* We’ve been doing a little house hunting, but we haven’t made a decision
yet. This area seems like a nice neighborhood.
*smiles* I know Dawn would enjoy living close to Emma. *pauses, takes a drink of coffee* How’s Sarah feeling? An’ do you know if she’s havin’ a boy or a girl, or is it too soon
to tell?
Barrie *smiles* It is a very nice neighbourhood; peaceful
and quiet … one of the rare places where you can let your children out to play without having to worry for their safety. And I’m sure Emma would love to close to Dawn as well. *Turns serious* This thing with the Andersons is really taking its toll on Sarah …
otherwise she’s doing fine. Everything has gone as it should … actually,
at her next ultrasound we will be able to know the baby’s sex, but we haven’t yet decided if we want to know. *Smiles a little* Or rather, we don’t
quite agree. I would like it to be a surprise, but Sarah would like to know. As she argues, it’s practical to know if it’s a boy or a girl when decorating
the nursery and buying clothes. I suppose she has a point … as any other
expecting parent says, as long as it’s healthy.
Elliott: Well, the nice thing about not knowin’ in advance is it forces you to be more
creative in the beginning, when it comes to decoratin’. That way,
you don’t wind up with the typical pink for girls or blue for boys. I’m
sure you’ll both have a nice, healthy baby. But I do hope Sarah can
try not to dwell too much on the Andersons. She’s got to
take care of herself, for her and the baby’s sake. You’ll have to
try to help her see that her fretting won’t change anything. *pauses, looks
over at the girls again, smiles as they struggle with Porthos; Emma holds a cookie for him, while Dawn stands behind him and
picks up his front legs, lifting him up, to show him how to sit up on his haunches.
The dog pants, his tongue lolling out, as if he’s smiling. Elliott
continues to Barrie, lowering his voice* Isn’t
it funny how quick you lose your heart to the little ones? Emma hasn’t
even been here with you an’ Sarah all that long, an’ already it seems like she’s been with you for years,
I bet. I truly hope things work out for you all.
*he laughs as the girls step back, squealing delightedly as Porthos sits up on his own*
I think he’s got it!
Barrie *smiles cunningly* That’s a very good
point, I’ll have to remember that. Well, so it’s been a smooth and
healthy pregnancy, so I’m sure it’ll be fine. One can’t go
around and worry about that too much; we would drive ourselves mad. *Looks at
the girls, smiles* I lost my heart to her on the very first day I met her in
the park … and it didn’t take Sarah long either. *His smile fades* That’s why it’s so hard … we feel that she is our daughter and then
two strangers show up saying that she is not. *Sighs* But you are right, we can’t let it worry us too much … we have another child to consider. I do try to cheer up Sarah and take her mind off it, but … no matter what you
do, it’s still there. You cannot make it disappear. *Looks at the girls again; smiles and speaks in a low voice* Don’t
tell the girls, but Porthos already knew how to do that … and Beth knows tricks too, but she will only perform for Sarah.
Sarah *joins them and sits down on a chair next to Barrie; kisses him on the cheek* That’s
because she knows who her mistress is … *to Elliott* Hello again, Elliott. Sorry for disappearing the moment you stepped in, but I needed a rest … lack
of sleep and I was feeling a little light-headed. *Smiles as Barrie looks at her with concern* Relax, darling. It’s perfectly normal … *touches
her stomach* It’s only because of little junior. *Takes a cookie and suddenly finds Beth sitting next to her looking up at her expectantly* No! *Pats her on the head*
Lie down. *the dog lies down next to her right away*
Barrie: See … perfectly well-behaved dog when
Sarah is around.
Elliott *grins* I had a feeling Porthos already knew that trick.
*nods toward the dog* I could tell by his smile. *Porthos looks over at them, blinks an eye, almost like a wink; Elliott laughs, then turns to Sarah* No need to apologize, Sarah, after all, we dropped in unannounced. I hope you’re feeling a little better. *smiles* You look wonderful, looks like your condition agrees with you. How are things at the book store? I trust you haven’t
had any more trouble like you had awhile back. It’s a fine store, just
the kind of place this town needed. *glances at Dawn* We can’t pass by it without Dawn wanting to go in an’ look around, then I practically have
to drag her out.
Sarah *smiles* I am feeling better, thank you. *Beams when he compliments her store* Thank you so much; I
do enjoy my little store … browsing the books when there are no costumers or helping costumers discover new books or
writers. And thankfully there hasn’t been any trouble since the broken
window … I suppose all they wanted was for me to not promote Godalming’s book.
Barrie *to Sarah* Have you given anymore thought to
hiring someone to help at the store? You shouldn’t be on your feet so many
hours every day and before long, you won’t be able to do that.
Sarah *gently touches his face with a little smile* You are quite right,
and yes, I do intend to hire someone … even though I run my own business, I fully intend on having a maternity leave. *To Elliott* I originally wanted my sister,
Isabella, to look after it while I’m gone, but she recently joined the Security Office.
I think she enjoys it; haven’t heard anything else, but it does mean that I’ll need to hire someone.
Elliott: Well … I’ve invested my money well, an’ I’m in a fortunate
position where I don’t have to work. But I love that store, an’ I
like the idea of doing something for the good of the town. I’d be happy
to volunteer my services. I’ve never worked in a bookstore before *grins*
but I have worked in retail, an’ I know a lot about books.
Sarah *thinks for a moment; smiles* That sounds perfect! My only requirements would be that it has to be someone who really cares about books and naturally experience
in retail is an advantage. But I don’t want to take up too much of your
time. How about I hire you as supervisor in my absence; you’d be responsible
for running the store, but I’d hire someone to assist you in the daily tasks … sort of a part-time solution.
Elliott
*nods, smiles* That’s fine. Let
me know when you’d like me to start. *glances at his watch, stands up* We’d better get going. We’re
supposed to see a house today. I’m in the market, as it were. *calls to Dawn* Dawn, sweetie, it’s time to go. *he looks down as Dawn comes up to him, followed by Emma*
Dawn *disappointed* Do we have to go now?
Elliott:
Don’t worry, we’ll come back another time. And guess what? Daddy’s gonna help Sarah with her bookstore.
Dawn *eyes wide, beams* Really? Can I come with you, an’ can I look at the books?
Elliott:
You can come with me sometimes, as long as you behave. An’ you can
look at some of the books, just like you do now, but you have to remember it’s a store, not a library.
Dawn *looks at Emma, rolls her eyes a little
impatiently; looks back at her father* I KNOW, Daddy.
Elliott *smiles* Okay, then. *to Sarah and Barrie* Thank you for a lovely visit, we’ll see you again very soon.
Barrie *smiles*
Our pleasure, I am glad that you decided to pay us a visit.
Sarah:
Do come again soon … and I’ll let you know when I need you at the store.
*Sarah and Barrie walk Elliott and Dawn to the door; they all shake hands and say their goodbyes, and Elliott and Dawn
take off*
At Vice Mayor Lisa’s:
Cesar *smiles
as he watches Lisa leave the room; he finishes his coffee, gets up, dresses, then makes his way to the den, where he sits
behind a large desk and picks up the phone* Operator, Aaron Monroe, please. *he waits a few minutes* Aaron …
*smiles* Why, yes, it’s Cesar, how’d you know? Oh … well, yes, I’m calling with very good news. We
need your services on short notice. Can you perform a wedding ceremony this evening,
here at Lisa’s home? No, nothing fancy, we’re keeping it very simple.
And it’s to be kept on the quiet, as well, so don’t let word get out.
We want to avoid a media circus. What?
Yes … good, I knew we could count on you. Sure, come ‘round
at about 7:30, that should give us time to go over everything we need to do. Pardon? *beams* Yes, Aaron, we’re both very happy. Merci. *he hangs up the phone, lets his thoughts wander for a moment. Then
he reaches into a pocket, pulls out a ring with a small but beautiful diamond in a dainty setting, a ring that belonged to
his mother. He gazes at it, smiles as he thinks how perfect it will look on Lisa*
At the DeMarcos’:
Ava *dreads the mornings
now especially 7.00am she seems to throw up at that time without any fail. Ava sits on the floor waiting
for the tidal wave to end all she wants to climb back into bed and sleep. However there is something else she needs to do
before she can do that she reaches into the back of the cabinet and pulls out a pregnancy test. She sighs hoping she
would never have to use it but it has been 4 weeks and six days since she saw Mother Nature last visited her, she opens the
package and pulls the test. Ava does what she needs to do and waits for the results. She picks up her watch and watches the
second hand go around and around it seems like forever, but when the two minutes finally end she picks up the test and she
closes her eyes. She talks her self into open her eyes she looks down at the test, which says, pregnant. Walls come tumbling
down before her eyes its history repeating its self all over again. She looks at the test hearing some noises coming from
the bedroom she quickly chucks the test into a black plastic bag and puts it right at the bottom of the bin. She sighs a few
tears fall down her face this is not want she wanted she is happy with just the twins but this is her fate and she must deal
with it. She puts a little bit of make up on her eyes to hide the fact that she has been crying. She doesn’t want to
go to bed now she rubs her pregnant belly, she plucks up some courage and she walks out of the bathroom and to the writing
desk. She pulls out a piece of paper she looks over at Don he is still asleep Ava the starts to work out the dates.
She first writes the last day of her menstruation 15th June from that she works out the date of contraception
that comes to 29th June, next She works out when the 1st trimester ends 7th September, then
when the second trimester ends 21st December and finally her due date March 21 2008.*
*She quickly moves away from
the desk as Don starts to stir, she puts the piece of paper in her drawer. She disappears down stairs and makes herself some
fresh orange juice and she has fresh fruit salad of strawberries, kiwis, oranges and some banana topped with some plain yoghurt.
She longs for a good strong whiskey but she can’t have that now so she downs the orange juice with some disappointment.
She now just sits and enjoys the silence before the madness starts again.*
At Stratford Castle:
Sweeney *paces the castle
walls as the rush of the kill has finally worn off he starts to crave that rush again he needs to, being with Elizabeth drives him mad. Sweeney grabs his coat and his razor and he goes on the prowl again. This time Sweeny lurks in the
darkness so no one can see him he doesn’t want to be spotted only a fool gets found out. Sweeney leaves the castle
grounds, he can hear a woman talking on a phone she is beautiful, her long golden locks tumble over her shoulders. This woman
oozes beauty he wonders why she is in the woods all alone she is an easy target but a target she is. Sweeney follows her for
some distance the female clinches an A4 brown envelope in her other hand. Sweeney can smell the blonde’s perfume a heady
sent of spices. He doesn’t ruin her beauty so this will be a delicate kill*
At Ruthie’s:
*Sam and Romany munch their
way through their tapioca. Sam starts to feel a little nervous he has never been a hit with the woman they always
seem to be put off by him. They think he is immature and stupid Romany looks at Sam looking at her she starts to think maybe
he doesn’t like me after all.* Romany
Romany: yes Sam
Sam: I like you a lot
Romany: *blushes* I like
you too Sam your funny and cute
Sam: Romany would you like
to watch a movie with me tonight?
Romany: Yes I would it’s
a movie night for me they show all the Buster Keaton movies tonight
Sam: I know *smiles* have
you finished
Romany: I sure have Sam where
is ruthie?
Sam: I don’t know *shouting*
Ruthie
Ruthie: You two finished
all ready?
Romany: we sure have that
was the best tapioca ever *she rubs her tummy* how much is the bill Ruthie
Sam: Yes how much *he pulls
out his wallet*
Romany: I will pay
Sam: No I will Romany a true
gent pays for his lady friend.
Ruthie: It's on the house
you two have fun now don’t do anything crazy. *Sam offers Romany his hand
and Romany takes it, it's love at first sight for them both. Sam and Romany have a huge smile on their faces they make each
other feel so special inside that they do not want it to end. Sam escorts his beautiful lady to his home*
At the doctor’s office, Three Rivers:
Manouche *holding
reins lightly, driving with Alifi in the Gypsy wagon, with Blodwyn the mare hitched to it, ambling on one of the smaller roads
outside of Deppville, heading north. The ride is very pretty, offering intermittent
views of the ocean on one side, pretty forest on the other. They soon come to
a sign for a town called Three Rivers.* ‘Ere it is, luv, jus’ as
ye said. I don't mind confessin', I’m right nervous. *she guides Blodwyn past the sign, toward the town*
Alifi: No worries, bird. Dr. Viland will help
you, he’s very good.
Manouche: He’s Rom … is he a dreamer?
Alifi: Not exactly, but he does have very powerful abilities of his own. He’s excellent with unique patients … in his own way, he’s as knowledgeable as Boadicea. And he’s a renowned obstetrician, particularly sensitive to the Romany ways. He’s even had experience with healer babies, you two have that in common. I went ahead and called him myself, told him about you. He’s very sweet, you’ll find he may be rather blunt, but he’s a good man, and he’ll
be completely honest with you. I should also mention that he looks amazingly
young for his age. Part of his mysticism, I suppose. He’s nearly my age, but you would never guess him to be past thirty, at the most. He’s also a little eccentric, you never know what he’s going to be wearing. But don’t let any of that throw you, he’s quite brilliant.
Manouche: Did ye tell ‘im about th’ snakebite?
I still ‘ave t’ wonder … I mean, all these symptoms I’m ‘avin’, it’s like
they’re fightin’ one another. Bloody strange t’ think that
I could either be dyin’, or bringin’ life into th’ world … or both.
Alifi *shakes
her head* I know, it’s all very mysterious.
I told him everything I could think of that may or may not have an effect on your health. Let’s see what he has to say. If he can’t sort
it out, I don’t know who can. Anyone with less understanding of all these
crazy supernatural threads you keep getting tangled up in would be at a loss.
Manouche *smirks* I do ‘ave a talent fer it, don’t I?
*Alifi laughs, they continue on into the town. As they approach, Manouche
notices the large number of wagons similar to hers, the makeshift dwellings amongst permanent structures, smouldering campfires;
she exclaims in surprise* Blimey, it’s truly a Gypsy community, innit?
Alifi *nods* Not many people know about it except the Rom. Even I hadn’t heard of it till
fairly recently. I’ve been meaning to bring you here for some time. We’ll have to bring Chírilo. I’m sure she misses her family and their ways. *pauses, smiles* It’s lovely, that you two found each
other. She’s so happy you’re adopting her.
Manouche *smiles* Stroke o’ luck, weren’t it. *looks
up, motions toward a building* Oi, look, there it is. *points to a sign, Dr. L. Viland, M.D. She brings the wagon close to the front of the building, reigns in Blodwyn.
She and Alifi climb down, she ties the reins to a post, they enter the office, see a pretty young woman behind the
reception desk* ‘Scuse me, luv, I ‘ave an appointment …
Woman *looks
up* Ah, you must be Mrs. Blake. *to
Alifi* And you’re Dr. Viland’s friend, Alifi. I've heard so
much about you, I've been wanting to meet you! *stands up, holds out a hand* I'm Bette, I’m Dr. Viland’s assistant … and his wife.
Alifi *takes
her hand* Ah, yes! Pleased to meet
you at last. *looks around the empty office*
Quiet day, eh?
Bette *shrugs* Business is up and down, today it’s quiet.
*to Manouche* He’ll be ready to see you very soon. I’ll let him know you’re here, please have a seat. *motions
to the seating area behind them; turns, goes through a door into the back*
Alifi *sits
down, watches Manouche as she takes a chair, tries to sit quietly, picks up magazines, flips through them not seeing the words* Try to relax, dear, soon you’ll have your answer.
Manouche: Jus’ anxious, I can’t help it. It
would be such fine news t’ take home to Mr. Blake. *Alifi starts to reply,
then stops as Bette opens the door, leans out, looks at them*
Bette: Please come in, he’ll see you now. *they
stand up, go to the door, enter, Bette closes the door behind them. They look
over to see a youthful man leaning over a counter, squinting into a microscope. Manouche
nudges Alifi, she hides a smile; the man is wearing a bathrobe and unlaced black boots, and little else. Bette glances at Manouche and Alifi, grins, turns to the man, clears her throat* Lionel, darling …
Viland: One more second … right. *he straightens
up, beams as he sees Alifi; comes over to her, takes her hands in his, kisses her left and right cheek* Alifi! Why do you stay away so long? This little town of Deppville has become
quite the obsession for you. *looks over at Manouche, raises eyebrows* Ahh, I see … well, I just answered my own question. *he
comes over to Manouche, studies her carefully, takes her hands* Captain
Manouche Roussel Blake. You’re quite the special representative of the
Rom. It’s a pleasure
to meet you at last. *leans in, kisses her cheeks as he did with Alifi*
Manouche: Please, call me Manouche. *colors slightly,
mumbles* Bloody ‘ell, I don’t know ‘bout all that bollocks
… *she looks at him, surprised* Blimey, ye don’t look more’n
a child …
Viland *laughs* Appearances can be deceiving. And as
for your reputation, it’s there, like it or not. You escaped The Order,
you cheated the soul box, your dreamer abilities are legend, you were midwife in the recent delivery of the healer baby we
all heard about … and that’s only the tip of the iceberg, from what Alifi tells me. *he smiles, squeezes her hands* Apologies, dear, I don’t
mean to embarrass you. *he leads her over to a small examination bed, hands her
a folded gown* We’ll leave you for a few minutes while you undress and
make yourself comfortable. Then we’ll see what’s what. *he leads the others back to the waiting room, closing the door behind them*
Alifi *once
the door is shut* Lionel, thank you for seeing her. I knew there was no point taking her to Deppville's hospital. She
needed to consult with an obstetrician who wouldn’t discount the things she’s experienced in the past.
Viland: Of course. I tried to find out more about
that bite she received. I’m afraid I found nothing more than what you told
me. Every known occurrence has been fatal.
*pauses* This examination will take a little time. Perhaps you and Bette can go have some coffee or something to eat, come back in about an hour.
Bette *puts
a hand on Alifi’s arm* Alifi, it’d be my pleasure, there’s
a café two doors down, very good.
Alifi *nods
anxiously* Very well. *to Viland* Thank you again, dear. *Viland takes
her hand, squeezes it reassuringly; she and Bette leave the office, head toward the café.
Viland waits a few more minutes, then returns to the door, taps on it*
Manouche *inside,
sitting on the bed, wearing the paper gown, her arms wrapped around her as if chilled; calls out* Aye, c’mon in, mate. *swallows* I’m ready …
At Vice Mayor Lisa’s:
Lisa *needing to clear her
thoughts, walks out to the garden, crosses the bridge and makes her way to the gazebo.
She sits down, and takes a deep breath. She takes a few minutes to enjoy
the scenery, and imagine how it will feel to stand next to Cesar and become his wife. Feeling much better,
she decides to go back into the house. She needs to work on marriage vows. She already knows what she's wearing. She
has a wonderful white dress she bought for a garden wedding she never attended.
It will be perfect; not overly fancy, but pretty enough to get married in. As
she enters the house, she looks for Cesar; not seeing him, she slips off to the bedroom, locks the door, and proceeds
to draw a nice bubble bath*
*After the bath, she puts
on a robe, and sits down at a small desk in the bedroom to work on the wedding vows.
They come to her much quicker than she expected. She reads them back to
herself. Satisfied, she tucks them away in the desk drawer. She gets up, unlocks the door, and decides to go find Cesar. She
wants to spend a little bit of time with him before she dresses, does her hair and makeup for the wedding.*
*She goes out into the main
hall, then onto the kitchen. Not seeing him, she calls out for him* Cesar, love, where are you? *she receives no immediate answer,
so she grabs a glass, pours herself a bit of wine. She takes a seat at the dining
table, thinking about where to go for the honeymoon. Suddenly, she catches sight
of him out of the corner of her eye. She turns to see him there, and a smile
crosses her face.*
Cesar *walks up to her at
the dining table. He has already dressed for the ceremony, wearing black trousers,
a crisp white shirt and a long black jacket with a red carnation in the buttonhole.
He brings his hands from behind his back, shows her a pretty bouquet of summer flowers*
Just because we’re doing this on short notice doesn’t mean you can’t have flowers on your wedding
day. *he hands them to her, sits down next to her, kisses her cheek* Aaron should be here soon. Did you speak with Corey, has he
agreed?
Lisa *her
breath catches in her throat; he looks so handsome. And the flowers are
just beautiful. She takes the bouquet from him.* Cesar,
they're so lovely. Thank you so much. And
you ... you look incredible! So handsome .. *blushes slightly* Yes, Corey will be here and he is to bring all
the papers we need to sign. *smiles at him* Would you put these in a vase
so they don't wilt? I need to get myself dressed. *She gets up, kisses his cheek, and turns to leave to get ready* You
aren't supposed to see me until the service. Silly, I know. But could you just send Corey to the room when he gets here? I'll
have him escort me to the gazebo. *flashes him a quick smile* I'll see you soon, love. *She returns to the bedroom, dresses,
does her hair and makeup. Gets the vows out of the desk drawer, starts to memorize
them, waiting patiently for Corey to arrive*
|
