Part 186

At Rartigillichal:

Kat *Troubled, looks after Manouche* What for did she say that? *Glances at Abby* After all I 'ave said 'bout savin' 'er or do ye both think me a jealous cat seekin' vengence?? Are ye thinkin' me a monster that would 'and an innocent babe o'er te Metrea?

Abberline: Because you are so aggressive, my dear. I don't think you would ever give the child to Metrea, but you are thinking of taking my children from me? Isn't that called vengeance? Or threatening me like that? *glances at Manouche, grabs Kat* She said no violence or shouting here, so you'll come with me to the mill house. There's something important I have to say to you. *drags her to the house and shuts the door with a loud bang* So. Now when we are alone, I want to say to you one thing. I am totally crazy about you and I am totally crazy saying it to you ...

Jack *opens the door, eyes widen* Oops! Apologies, luvs … I was hoping I’d stumbled upon a tidy little cordials cache. That guest house, accommodating though it be in many aspects, was decidedly short on rum inventory, which led to a further exploration of the grounds. *arches a brow* I see you’re occupied. Pity, that. *looks at Kat warmly* Kat, I won’t say it would never have worked between us. Instead, I’ll leave the, er, door open on that one, as it were. You know where my ship is, savvy? Gangplank’s always out for you, luv. *winks, smiles leeringly at Kat, then drops smile and winces slightly at Abberline’s angry glare* Meanwhile, perhaps I’ll head back into town, catch up with a certain Commander. Fishnet stockings and a fully-stocked wet bar, now there's a winning combination if ever I heard of one. *looks a little dreamy for a moment, then smiles charmingly at them both* May your evening be full of the joys of the season … or something like that. *frowns, shakes his head; smiles at them again, withdraws, closes the door*

Kat: But not for no vengeance. I onliest wanted them to be together with Faith if not with ye. Ye said 'fore ye'd 'ave naught te do with Metrea's get. *Sadly* Then ye were sayin' ye wanted naught to do with me as well. *Startled* What was that??

Abberline: I changed my mind. Now that Manouche is carrying her, don't you see, it changes everything. It's as if she wasn't anymore Metrea's child. *he pushes her gently against the wall* You heard me. I can't help it. I want you so badly ... but ... but I don't know if I can go on living with you, or you with me. You are the only woman I want in the whole world. Sad, isn't it?

Kat: Ye make it sound like I be another form of dragon te chase. Not very flatterin' that. What now?

Abberline: Damned if I know. Oh but that's what you are to me. Except for the difference that I caught you ... There are many times I wished that I could tame you, but then ... I've come to realize that I would not have liked you that way. *suddenly he grins* You were so right in the note you wrote to me, you are not a good wife. But if you don't want to be my wife anymore, would you be my mistress?

Kat: Mistress?? Interestin' notion, that. 'ceptin' for the fact if ye took a notion to take a wife or e'en 'nother mistress I'd 'ave te go and kill 'er. Then there be the kids. What of them, eh? Sharin' be not my strong point, savvy??

Abberline: I am not for sharing either. Except that it seems that we have to share little Faith with Manouche and Blake. You know that the children will be best with me, I have a good home to give them, and a housekeeper and a nanny to take care of them. And you don't want to be tied, don't you? You want your freedom, and I want you, but living together seems not to be the best choice for either of us. You have to admit, you don't love living at Bournemouth House, and I will never like the sea. We'd be better off as lovers than as husband and wife, and I have no intentions of taking ever a wife again. And if I have you, I don't need any mistresses.

Kat: I would want full access to them kids at any time. Then there be the problem of Ravenwood bein' in ruins though I 'ave 'ad word the Apparition will soon be returned to me. It's not 'ere as of yet.

Abberline: Then you agree that we can't go on living together? There's no reason I would deny you access to the kids. They do need their mother. My wish is just that you wouldn't take Chiana to sea. *he smiles* I understand that Raven is a lost case already ... Oh, and I have some news of Ravenwood. Constable Crane was reconstructing the house, so it might be standing there again by now. *then he feels the sting of jealousy as always when thinking about Crane* But you do understand that I could never tolerate seeing you living with him in the same house. If he tries anything I'll shoot him.

Kat *Sighs* There be no question of my takin' te the sea no time soon. Seems the women of Tortuga 'ad a backup negotiator and them men didna take kindly te bein' forced te give in to them wenches. Allowin' 'em rights and they blamed me for it. Put a price on my 'ead they did. As for Ichy I gave 'im no leave to be rebuildin' Ravenwood. I'll pay for what e'ers been done and that be the end of it. *Studing Abby closely* One more thin'. I want it in legal writin' that should ye go takin' a wife them kids come te me. If ye 'ave no intention of doin' so, ye should 'ave no objection, eh??

Abberline *smirks* And you had no doing in it, of course, especially not with the backup negotiator. I pity the men in Tortuga ... *consider s her request for a while, getting ever another wife seems not like an option for him.* No, I don't think I have any objection to that. I'll have custody of the children, and you have all rights to see them when you want to. We can sign all the papers at the Office legally and properly. Is there anything more? Actually, I had something else in mind than negotiations and paperwork.

Kat: I'm thinkin' all be covered. Paper work can wait. Just what'd ye 'ave in mind luv?

Abberline: If we are to part ... *looks at her with hungry eyes*

Kat: I see. And as temptin' as that notion is, I feel disinclined to acquiesce. To my thinkin' there still be that 'lil matter of yer cheatin' ... regardless of who it were ye banged. E'erythin' seems a bit outta balance you might say, savvy?? Kinda makes me feel icky. Ye sorta owe me at least one 'fore this chapter closes, luv. *Smiles sweetly* Since Jack's ship seems te 'ave sailed *sighs* I be forced te look elsewhere, eh? *Steps close kisses him soundly then backs away* Ta luv, 'til them scales be e'en. *Turns and leaves him seemingly at a loss for words.*

Jack *standing outside, leaning against a tree, smiles as he sees Kat emerge* Ahh! I knew you'd warm up to me. *approaches her, holds out his arm* To the Pearl, then, milady?

Abberline: Kat, I will be waiting for you ... *But he is sure that she doesn't hear him, he sighs heavily and lights a cigarette, as he wanders slowly to the house, trying very hard not to see the bloody pirate Captain talking to Kat, but he can't help stealing a glance at her.* She's not my beautiful wife anymore ... *Everything is his own fault, he brought this all upon himself all on his own, and now he feels sick and disgusted when he thinks about Metrea, and he understands completely why Kat keeps rejecting him.*

Kat *Glances back toward the house then replies to Jack* Apologies mate, ye've served yer purpose. All I be wantin' is a bottle of rum and my own company, savvy?? Ta luv. *Hoists her bag onto her shoulder and walks away*

At the DeMarcos’:

*It's now the day after Ava's encounter with Alphonse she is out by herself again not with her husband again he went out early she sighs. The thought of waking up in an empty cold bed sends shivers through her body but what is she to expect Don has been acting strange. Ava starts to walk past Vickies when a certain Irresistible black lace babydoll with satin cup overlaid with black lace and ribbon around the neckline and bow detail in the center front. The mesh bodice is embellished with the same ribbon detail with lace frill on the hem. And it comes with a matching pair of french knickers. Ava walks straight into Vickies and buys it. She gets it wrapped up in black tissue paper and gets it put in a black and pink box which has been wrapped with a ribbon. Ava makes her way home with her Vickies bag in tow she still can’t understand why she brought it Don wont be in again nor will he go near her.*

*When she arrives at the door she sighs and enters she is greeted by silence. She disappears up the stairs with her bag of goodies she opens their bedroom door you can tell Don decorated its it appeals to each of the sense touch, taste, smell, sight, and sound. She never noticed the room's beauty she pauses to take it all in. First she takes in the touch side of their room. The luxurious sheets and plush pillows are wonderful, the big comfortable mattress calls to her, she imagines the heavenly caress of both the sheets and of her worlds greatest lover Don it sends shivers down her spine. She then takes in the taste side of things she glances at the room she notices something on Don's side cabinet that hasn't been there for a long time. She walks up to the bowl of strawberries and whipped cream she raises her eyebrow and steals a strawberry just to make sure that they were real and she wasn't dreaming. She smiles and she can smell the candles burning she closes her eyes and breathes deep taking in the heavy scent. The candles flames dance to soft music playing in the back round she is drawn to the candles the light is soft and romantic. She listens to the soft music play in the back round she hasn't heard that music for a long time. She places the box with her underwear on the bed, maybe she should just run herself a bath and not get her hopes up, maybe he has all ready had a women in the bedroom. With that thought She leaves the box on the bed and runs a bath she puts rose petals into the water and she climbs in she has never felt so beautiful in her life.*

Don Juan *throws the bottle away and waits for the effect to kick in, but nothing happens. He is already about to curse the damn pirate Malachi for cheating him, when a lady walks by, he throws an indifferent glance at her, and she goes aaahh and swoons. He grins. The great lover is back, ready to spread the message of love all over the world! He has to try it out, and he feels like singing loud on the street, and he hurries home. He will show Ava that though her figure is far from perfect he can still love her and make her scream, and she will forever forget the dumb Georgie boy. He stops at Grape's to shop some necessary ingredients for the Grand Seduction, and when he comes home, he prepares the bedroom as only he can. Then, he leaves to give orders to Shane to take the kids for an outing, and goes down into the cellar to find champagne. When he finally finds the Dom Perignon, he returns to the bedroom, stops at the door. He can hear the water running ... He undresses but leaves the mask on as he silently sneaks into the bathroom, and whispers in a husky voice to Ava as he joins her* Love is the only secret of life ... *And it sings, it sings again ... *

Ava *shocked she closes her eyes and listens to his voice as it lingers in her ear* Well hello stranger I am sure my husband would protest at me being in a bath tub with a man I have only just met. *she lifts her arm up and puts her hand on the back of his neck where the warm water from her hand trickles down his back*

At Grape’s:

*The two shadowy figures make their way to the alley across the street from Grape’s Grocery. Two men dressed completely in black look at the store, then one speaks to the other* Looks easy enough. And you’re right, that Security department is a joke.

Second man: Let’s just hope Grape is still unaware of what he’s got in there.

First man: He must be. Otherwise, this place would be locked down better. I checked it out earlier, my own mother could break into it!

Second man: Okay, okay, good to know, but let’s not get too sure of ourselves. With our criminal records, we don't need to get caught at what should be a very simple breaking an' entering. C’mon. *they make their way to the back of the store, where they easily manage to shake one of the windows loose. They slip it out of the way as quietly as they can, and help each other climb into the store. They slip through the aisles of groceries until they reach the freezer section. They open the doors in front of the ice cream, one man holds the door open while the other rummages around the various flavors. Finally, on the lower shelf, toward the back, he finds what he’s looking for* Ah, here it is.

First man: What flavor?

Second man *looks at him, scowls* Are you serious? Tutti-fruitti! Who cares what bloody flavor, ya twit?

First man *sullen* Just curious, no need to get nasty about it. *he closes the door as his companion stands up, holding a half gallon of ice cream.*

Second man *holds the container in one hand, pries the lid off with the other. Looks inside, smiles* Ahhh, there it is. Just like ol’ Dupres said.

First man: Shhh! *glances around nervously* There may be recording devices here.

Second man: Right. *puts the lid back on the container, sticks it in his coat*

First man: Ya gonna carry it out like that?

Second man: Why not?

First man: Well … it’ll melt.

Second man: So what? Makes it that much easier for us to take out the—

First man: I know, but … *looks at the container longingly* I was hopin’ to have some. Sorry, ice cream is my weakness.

Second man *rolls his eyes* So I’ll buy you a cone at Deppy Queen on the way outta town. *shoves him, hisses* Let’s go! *they hurry back to the window, help each other climb back out; they replace the glass, silently but quickly rush away from the store, toward the woods*

At From Hell Court:

Jeanne: You do look scary, and I am a little nervous, but I am sure a couple of rums would cure that ... But it wasn't some druggie looking for money. Someone knew what I had there, and now it is gone. I don't know what to do!

Sweeney: no need to be nervous *looks at her* Come on lets get to my favourite Den *He leads Jeanne through the alleys ways, they pass unfortunates doing their business and he hurries her along. Sweeney looks at the women he sees so many fragile flowers calling out to him, for him to save them, he can see it in their eyes. They yearn for him to be their savior* Well here it is Miss Missoni *he opens the door to the Den only the real bad people go here no one dares to cross any of them* Take a seat over there Miss Missoni do not speak to none or touch no one or the consequences could be fatal.

At Neverland Avenue:

Barrie *sitting behind the desk in his study talking on the phone; he’d only just finished his breakfast when the phone rang. Listens with a concerned expression, but it quickly changes to that of relief* Oh that is good to hear. Thank you so much, Brasco. We really appreciate your help. *Listens again* And I trust you will let us know when it’s all over? *Nods* Good. *He says goodbye and hangs up the phone, then returns to the kitchen and sits down next to Sarah again; he takes her hand as he looks into her eyes* That was Chief-Inspector Brasco. He has helped Isabella research the Andersons’ background. *smiles* They’re not Emma’s parents.

Sarah *tears of relief fill her eyes and she throws her arms around Barrie* Thank God!

Barrie *hesitates; Sarah has already had far too many worries, but she still deserves the truth* The FBI have been keeping an eye on them for some time … they run an adoption agency; they … they sell children.

Sarah *pulls back and looks at him a little shocked* They were going to sell Emma?

Barrie *Nods* Looks that way … Brasco assured me that FBI agents are on their way to arrest them now that they have the final piece of evidence; we may be called upon to testify against them. Brasco is sending Isabella over here as soon as she arrives at the office and she’s to stay until the arrest has been made … just in case.

Sarah *Smiles a little* Good. That’ll certainly make me feel safer … I just hope it’ll be over soon so we can all move on.

Barrie *kisses her forehead* Me too, darling. Me too.

At Rartigillichal:

Manouche *looking out the window, watches Abberline and Kat head for the mill house, then she feels someone by her side; looks down* Ah, Raven … ye hungry, luv? We’ll be eatin’ soon.

Raven *looks out the window* Where’s Father?

Manouche: Well … he’s a little busy.

Raven: He’s with Mother, isn’t he?

Manouche *looks at him, surprised, starts to try to explain; finally, she simply nods* Aye.

Raven: Why don’t they both come in? Is Mother stayin’ for dinner?

Manouche: I … I don’t think so, lil’ mate.

Raven *looks at her* You can’t tell me everything that’s goin’ on, can you?

Manouche: Well … there are a few things yer dad needs t’ talk to ye about.

Raven: Is it somethin’ about the baby?

Manouche: Oh, ye know about that, do ye? *he nods* Well … aye, it’s about that, an’ … well, other things. *ruffles his hair gently* Don’t worry about it all right now, all right? Everything’ll be sound. *glances out the window again, then turns back to him* How’s Chiana?

Raven: She’s asleep, Chírilo’s with her. I just … *voice trails off, he sighs* … I was jus’ wondering where Father went. *he looks out the window again, too* Mother’s not comin’ back. They’re talkin’ everything over.

Manouche *puts a hand on his shoulder* I’m sorry, luv, I really am. I know ye may not believe this, but … once everythin’s settled, an’ after some time passes, yer mum an’ dad may end up bein’ closer, in a way. They’ve tried t’ make this work fer a long time, but they … they both want different things, savvy?

Raven *nods absently* I know.

Manouche: They’ll both always ‘ave you children t’ keep ‘em together, in a sense. They’re bloody proud o’ ye. Ye know they’re both mad fer ye, an’ that they’d do anythin’ they could fer ye, right?

Raven: Yeah. *he looks up at her, suddenly brings his arms around her neck, hugs her* Y-you aren’t leaving, are you?

Manouche *hugs him back* Blimey, no! What put that in yer head?

Raven: I dunno … *he’s quiet for a moment, then adds* Have you been feelin’ okay?

Manouche *nods* ‘Course I ‘ave. ‘Cept fer one thing …

Raven *looks at her carefully* Wh-what?

Manouche *very serious* Hunger. *smiles* I don’t think I can wait any longer fer dinner. Let’s go ‘ave at it, shall we? Yer dad can join us whenever he’s ready. Go fetch Chírilo. An’ if yer sister’s awake, we’ll get ‘er a bottle. See ye in th’ dinin’ room. *Raven smiles slightly, kisses her cheek, darts off. Manouche watches him go, her smile fades, she looks out the window again, leaning against the windowsill as she feels another wave of dizziness. It passes quickly, and she sighs, relieved. She straightens up, heads to the kitchen to help Alifi*

At the Security Office:

Isabella & Hanson *enter the building still holding hands; they ignore the little glare DeeDee sends them…apparently she’s not quite over the fact that she was the one who were dumped. Or maybe she doesn’t approve of Isabella’s worn-out jeans and man’s shirt. They stop by Donnie’s office*

Isabella *nods towards the door* I’m going to go hear what Donnie found out. *she reaches up and kisses him; smiles as they pull apart* I’ll see you later.

Hanson *returns the smile* Alright. Call me if you need anything, anything at all. *as he walks down the hall towards his office* be it assistance, company, a kiss from your boyfriend … you just call.

Isabella *laughs* Will do. *shakes her head; lightly knocks on Donnie’s door before entering; still smiling* Good morning.

Donnie: Good morning. *smiles* Judging from that smile, I’d say things worked out last night.

Isabella *Beaming* Indeed, they did. And as a favour to me, take it easy on Hanson today; he didn’t get much sleep last night. *Donnie looks at her a little puzzled, wondering what exactly she means by that. She notices the expression on his face; quickly protests* Oh no, no! I just meant that he couldn’t sleep, because he was thinking of all the stuff I told him. *Looks at him a little reproachfully* So get your mind out of the gutter!

Donnie *laughs* Sorry! But I’m sure you can see why one might misunderstand.

Isabella *grins* Yeah, I can see that. *turns serious* So, did you find out anything about the Andersons?

Donnie *Nods* Oh yes! *Reads from his notes* Their real names are Mark and Suzanne

Henderson … they run a rather questionable adoption agency in New York. They accept money from couples wanting to adopt and if they don’t have the right child to give to a couple, they’ll find one. FBI believes that Emma were supposed to go to a couple on Long Island.

Isabella *sits down; shakes her head* How can anyone do that? Take advantage of couples who can’t have children and..and..steal children to make money?

Donnie: Yeah. Unfortunately, it happens more often than you think. Poor families have even sold their own children through such agencies. *He goes over to the coffee-maker and pours a cup for Isabella; hands it to her and continues* Your sister’s case is apparently just what FBI needs to make an arrest; agents are on the way. *Notices the dark expression on Isabella* Unfortunately, we are not allowed to do anything; it’s a federal case. I know it’s personal to you, but I’m asking you not to interfere … besides, I promised Barrie that you’d go over there and stay with them until the arrest has been made. Just in case the Andersons … or Hendersons show up.

Isabella *smiles slightly* … and to keep me occupied. *takes a sip of coffee, then places the cup on the desk and rises* I better get over there then.

Donnie *as she turns to leave* Think of it as a day off. They’re most likely already aware of what we’re doing and have fled town. Talk to your sister, play with Emma, but don’t—

Isabella *finishes for him* Don’t go after them myself. Got it. *Leaves his office and starts towards Neverland Avenue*

At Stratford Castle:

Mistress *sits in her drawing room with Lady Rosetta they are discussing Portsmith and that stupid girl Jeanne Missoni. They drink the finest Earl grey tea imported from London in Mistress Fiore’s Wedgwood china tea set. The only set that remains intact many offers have been made for the set but Mistress will never give them up. Mistress is finally in good company in this town she left all her acquaintances in London. Lady Rosetta finally followed her over the two hell raisers are back together.* Do you know that imbecile Portsmith tried to send a stupid girl here with some maps of old Deppville *laughs* you wouldn’t believe what the maps where like they were photocopies

Lady Rosetta: Well it doesn’t surprise me she’ll do any thing to get your status *she takes a sip of tea*

Mistress: I know *laughs* the stupid fool tries to past off all her china as the real deal she has never noticed the spelling mistakes in the marks

Lady: What a fool she is *laughs* did you see the Rolex she wears she say’s it’s the first one made but if you look carefully you can see the scratch mark where she crossed the numbers out

Mistress: I know please she fakes her wealth with fakes and what ever else she uses. You wouldn’t believe what she sleeps with she sleeps with a pirate how disgusting

Lady: How vile they are vile creatures I have seen so many in this town it’s a good job having Sweeney here he did do a very good job in London didn’t he

Mistress: He sure did he is cleaning this town of all the unfortunate women *grins* I love to watch him work it’s so beautiful and graceful

Lady: I could imagine where is he now

Mistress: He’s out that stupid girl tried to double cross me so I let him have some extra fun tonight *she grins an evil grin*

Lady: *grinning along with her* some one is going to be in a fine mood tonight I expect he will please you

Mistress: Of course my Demon will he isn’t just a great barber *laughs*

At Rartigillichal:

Abberline *walks in and hears the sounds from the kitchen, and he is relieved that Manouche is busy elsewhere. The first one he sees is Raven, who looks at him seriously* You know everything already, don't you?

Raven: I don’t know … I mean, I thought I did, but … Manouche says you need to talk to me about some stuff. *he looks past him, toward the door* Mother’s not coming in? *looks at Abberline* We’re just about to eat. Chiana’s still asleep. *holds his hand out* C’mon, Father. It’s Manouche an’ Alifi, they understand.

Abberline: I don't think she is. And I am not hungry either. *he takes the brandy bottle and pours two drinks, hands the other one to Raven.* So, Manouche didn't tell you. I guess she wanted you to hear it all from me. It's time talk, man to man. *he chooses a chair and sips the drink, lights a cigarette* Your mother is not coming back home. But I believe you guessed or knew as much. We talked it over, and I have to say it was frightening, she was calm and cold ... I would have welcomed rather the shovel. I don't think she can ever forgive me for cheating on her. *he sighs* She will be able to come to Bournemouth when she wants to, and of course, you can see her as much you want to. You are big enough to choose your place to live, but I still wish you wouldn't abandon me and Chiana, though I know you don't like living at Bournemouth House. *he's quiet for a while, anxiously waiting for some kind of response from Raven, but then he decides to go on and pour it all out at once* That's not all. I told you about the child of Metrea. Well, something very strange has happened. Something totally unexpected and unbelievable. Manouche came and told me. The child ... She ... She is growing inside Manouche now, and we decided that we are going to keep the child. I don't feel anymore that it will be Metrea's. It's mine, and Manouche's. *he falls silent and takes another sip*

Raven *takes a small sip of the brandy, listens gravely to what Abberline says. He’s quiet for a few minutes as he thinks it over, then it all sinks in, and he looks at Abberline, amazed* M-Manouche is … *he smiles a little* … Then … maybe it won’t be … maybe it won’t be anything like Metrea? *looks eager* Is it Faith? I – I saw Faith in a dream, once … or maybe it was something I felt through you … I don’t remember. *he pushes his hair out of his face, it falls back into his eyes, and he takes another small drink* Father, why do you always say what I do an’ don’t like? I liked Bournemouth House when it was cold an’ unfinished, ‘cause you were there. Then I loved it even more after Sergeant Godley got it all fixed up, it was all warm an’ nice, an’ Mother was there, too, an’ then Chiana. I loved my old room at Ravenwood, too, an’ I love Mother’s ship. But … I’ve gotten used to the idea of Bournemouth House as my home. I think I should stay on, an’ help with Chiana. An' I'll spend time with Mother, too, I wanna see her as much as she’ll have me. I knew Mother was leavin', I felt it the last time she left, before you told me about … Metrea. *he pauses, then asks* Did Mother leave ‘cause of Metrea, or was it a lot of other stuff, too? An' what's she gonna do with the stuff Manouche gave her? The things from Ravenwood, the necklace, the mocassins, all that? I saw Manouche gather 'em together to take out to her. They ... they all looked kinda familiar to me.

Abberline *smirks* I guess I have become the paranoid old man, trusting no one and expecting the worst to happen. I didn't like the house before you and Kat settled in. *he remembers Faith so well, the little beautiful girl crying after her father* Yes, it is Faith. And I am sure that Manouche's magic is stronger that Metrea's, whatever she was trying to do. You have to believe me, that was the only time I cheated on her, and though she will not be living with us, I hope it is not the end. I still love her, and I won't stop loving her ... I have all the time behaved like an idiot, so it is no wonder she got tired of me. You should not put free and wild birds in a cage. But I guess that it was the last straw. And I can't blame her. I feel sick when I think about it. *he lights another cigarette* I can't give any lectures to you, but I can teach you with my example - don't do as I have done. *he frowns* I don't know anything about those things. Is there something important or valuable?

Raven *shrugs* I don’t know, I know it was all important to Mother. None of it looked real valuable, but there was somethin’ about it all … *pauses, shakes his head* Never mind. *smiles slightly at Abberline* Don’t worry Father, things might be better with Mother now that she has her freedom, an’ once Faith is here.

Chírilo *runs in* Manouche an’ Alifi says to come to the dining room, dinner’s ready— *she stops short as she sees Abberline, remembers meeting him at la Maison de Paradis. She smiles, blushes a little at his handsome dark eyes on her* H-hello, Inspector Abberline. D’you remember me? I’m Chírilo. *proudly* I’m gonna live here all the time now.

Abberline: I still can't see what's so interesting in them. *sighs* Yes, things might be better with her, but I will miss her. And I still don't know what to do with little Faith ... *he is thankful for the interruption* Oh, I do remember you. You were at the Maison de Paradis. I am sure you will love it here with Manouche and Blake. *he falls silent. And Faith? Isn't it wrong to separate a baby from its mother? And, as he very reluctantly admits, she would have a home here with both parents ... Maybe she shouldn't even be told. Maybe it would be better just to give her to Manouche and Blake, but he knows he can't do that.* We'd better go then. *he rises up and goes to the dining room, where he is met by a delicious smell, but he is just worried whether he can eat anything. He feels sick*

Manouche *looks up, smiles as they enter the room* Ahh, ‘ere we are. *to Abberline* Sit over ‘ere between Chírilo an’ me, next t’ Raven. No worries about Chiana, she’s sleepin’ soundly.

Alifi *enters from the kitchen, carrying a large tray with individual bowls, sets one at each place* Here we are …

Raven *looks at it* What’s this?

Alifi: Consommé madrilene …

Raven *looks at Chírilo, back to Alifi* What’s that? *wrinkles his nose* Sounds awful girly … *looks at Abberline as if for support*

Alifi *laughs* Basically, it’s a tomato base soup over vegetables. I’m sure you’ll like it.

Manouche *grins* Aye, I’ve never ‘ad any complaints on that recipe yet. Give it a try, lil’ mate. *glances at Abberline, adds* I’ve heard it’s also good fer an’ upset stomach. *she reaches under the table, takes his hand, squeezes it, senses his discomfort and tries dreamer-like to soothe his anxieties. She looks around the table, continues talking as she does this* Now, there’ve been many strange things ‘appenin’ in all our lives as of late, which can often result in a dodgy appetite. So everyone jus’ do th’ best ye can with th' dinner. If ye find ye ain’t keen on eatin’ much, no worries, it’ll all keep. *she gives Abberline’s hand one last squeeze as everyone reaches for silverware; says to him very quietly* ‘Ave a lil’ Faith, mate. This child is goin’ to be raised by you, end of story. *she winks, then looks around the table; smiles as she sees Raven cautiously taste the consommé, raise his eyebrows in surprise, then start eating voraciously*

Abberline *raising an eyebrow, glancing at Raven* Just vegetables? *he eyes the bowl suspiciously, but starts to feel better when Manouche takes his hand* I'll give it a try ... *he knows that Manouche can reach his mind, so he knows he doesn't have to tell her his thoughts. But a child needs a mother. And a good father. And a stable home. None of those can I give to her. And I am on my own now*

Manouche *smothers a laugh as she watches Abberline eye the consommé with the same trepidation Raven expressed; she looks around the table, adds* Oh, by th’ way, luvs, this is only fer starters, savvy? Alifi an’ I worked together t’ prepare two main courses, Bœuf Bourguignon, an’ poached salmon. Take yer choice, or ‘ave a bit o’ both. An’ save room fer dessert. I made a Basque cake, with fresh cherries from th’ tree outside. It’s one o’ Mr. Blake’s favorites, I’ve set aside a piece fer ‘im, so th’ remainder is fair game. *she smiles, takes a small taste of the consommé, responds in thought to Abberline* Steady on, mate, see what th’ future brings. Fer one thing, ye seem t’ be able to provide a fine home fer Raven an’ Chiana. Ye ‘ave a lovely house, an’ Candy’s there. An’ I rather imagine Kat’ll be keen on spendin’ time with th’ child. Fer another thing, a lot can ‘appen in … well, in seven months or so. *she takes a drink of the Kir Lily-Rose she made for herself, ponders her condition; the situation is already so extraordinary, she wonders if the pregnancy will move along faster, like it did for Kat … *

At Convento de la Encarnación:

Father Love-joy *walks down the corridor where the messenger lays he can hear her sing the song again that makes four men now. Even Father Love-joy is growing tired of hearing her sing let alone one more scream of ecstasy. Father Love-joy wouldn’t mind but the scream is high pitched it goes right through him the messenger has always had a high-pitched voice.* Yes we know another man please could you not scream so loud you’ll scare the German tourists off. *He wanders past the door but he can now hear another voice*

Hello stranger my husband will never approve of this me being in a bathtub with another man.

*This is a voice he has never heard before, her voice is seductive at least he knows she is the bathtub. Father Love-joy doesn’t know that a curious nun, Sister Emina, is slowly following him. She stays behind some distance so she doesn’t arouse any suspicion on his behalf. Sister Emina has been with the convent since she was a baby she was orphaned there. She doesn’t want the unborn baby and its mother to have the same fate as her, she is being held there against her own will. She wants to break free of this place but she cant, as she has nowhere to go and this is the only life she knows.*

Father Love-joy *follows the voice through narrow corridors and secret passageways that he never knew about, which leads him into a stone room it is completely dark and smells kind of funny too. When he enters the room the candles ignite themselves and he walks over to a stone pool, which is in the centre of the room. The mystical water glitters on the roof of the room he cautiously walks over to it and he peers over. He can see some images in it a man in a mask and a woman they are both in a bathtub but the voice has stopped. The inner nosey child gets the better of him and he looks at the picture even more. Amazed by the images* Oh paper view *grins widely* hey what you up to? *It takes a few silent moment before he finally realises who the man is in the mask, it’s Don Juan DeMarco the worlds greatest lover he has made contact with the carrier of the incarnation.* Ah bingo so that’s where you have been hiding incarnation *smiles at the images* well what a beautiful woman you have Don a fine specimen of a woman.

Sister Emina *watches in amazement with out noticing she walks right into Father Love-Joy. He jumps up in the air and squeals like Ichy when he sees a spider that is before he faints. With that Father Love-Joy straightens himself up and turns to her*

Father Love-Joy: Sister Emina why are you here?

Emina: *thinks of something off of the top of her head* Oh I needed you to try these *pulls out some cherries covered in chocolate* here try these it’s new the tourists are lapping them up *smiles* what’s this Father

Father: Oh that I am not sure but you shouldn’t see it

Emina: Why not you are always telling me about destiny maybe it’s my destiny. *Smiles* you said to me that I was brought here for a reason maybe this is it my reason

Father: *thinks to himself maybe it was her destiny. * And what does your soul say about your destiny

Emina: It tells me that I should watch the mother and the baby until the day it is born.

Father: Yes you are right that makes you *he puts his finger on his bottom lip * chief mother and incarnation watcher

Emina: But father the incarnation is a baby why must we call it an incarnation

Father: You can call it what ever you want we call it an incarnation for the tourists

Emina: Oh I see but isn’t that lying

Father: Sister Emina you are making things more complicated than what they truly are she is carrying the next worlds greatest lover and that makes it an incarnation of her father.

Emina: Right I see but it makes no sense why would the next greatest lover be a boy

Father *snaps* Because Emina because there has been a male Worlds greatest lover so the next will be a girl *he pulls his copy of the book of incarnation and he runs his finger down to the right passage* There you see a girl

Emina: Ok father I shall watch both of them

Father: Good now we must never speak of this ok only I and you know about this place and that’s the way it will remain understood

Emina: yes father.

The Wonkas in London:

Cole *after nearly fourty-five minutes of waiting and Madame pushing, Cole almost has his new baby sister completely. Willy has just hung up, almost inside. Cole holds her under her back with both hands and gives his mother one last command* Okay mom ... one last time. Push

Madame *sweat and tears flowing down her face, she pushes and screams one last time. She nearly smacks her head from leaning back so hard when Cole shouts in joy* Cole ... the baby ...

Cole *cradles his new baby sister in his arms, only she makes no sound. Cole begins to get scared and lies her on the floor on top of a blanket. He looks at her stomach, it does not move. He remembers what Manouche taught him back in the day, about "putting air in people". He wipes her face lightly with a blanket, opens her mouth, and breaths real hard into her, then pushes her stomach only a bit firmly. She still makes no movement, so he does it again. After the second push, he hears sputtering and suddenly crying. He smiles as he picks her up again and holds her close to him.* Hiya. I'm Cole. *she opens her eyes and seems to smile at him*

Madame *after watching Cole save the baby, more tears flow, still breathless and tired* Oh my word ... Cole … you saved her. *she looks up at the ceiling and cries heavily* She's okay ...

Willy *runs into the kitchen, his shoes tapping the floor loudly. He runs over to Cole and kneels next to him, wanting to take his new daughter, but only watches as she and Cole stare at one another. Willy begins to cry at the sight. He crawls over to Madame and picks her head up, resting her on his lap* She's okay .. you did it. Cole did it.

Madame *sighs heavily, her eyes closed, breathing in large amounts of air. She speaks quietly* Willy ...

Willy: Hmm?

Madame: No ... more ... kids ...

Willy *laughs lightly, and hugs her* She's okay. *Madame watches Cole quietly as the baby lifts her tiny hand in the air.*

Cole *manages to place his palm against it* Hi Angel ... *Willy’s mouth nearly drops at Cole's words*

Madame *simply grins* Angel ... Cole, that is beautiful.

Cole: That's her name, mommy. Angelina Diana Wonka. That's what she told me. *Willy smiles and nods*

Madame: It's perfect.

Cole: Yea ... she is.

At Neverland Avenue:

Mark Anderson *turns the car down Neverland Avenue* We grab the kid and then we’re out of here.

Suzanne: And if they refuse?

Mark *darkly* then we’ll have use more extreme measures, won’t we?

Suzanne: Yes, we will. *pulls out a small pistol from the glove compartment and checks that it’s loaded; checks the safety before tucking it into her jeans and pulling her shirt over it. They reach Barries’ house and parks the car by the side-walk; they exit the car and walk up to the front door. Suzanne rings the bell; glances around the quiet street* Could you imagine us living in a place like this?

Mark *smiles* Once we get the money, we will buy a nice house … just like this one. *puts on a more serious expression as Loiuse opens the door.*

Louise *recognizes them from the day they showed up with a nurse to take samples for the DNA-test; nervously* I’m afraid the Barries’ are not in, sir. But I’ll be sure to tell them you were here. *Tries to close the door again; Mark puts his foot in*

Mark: But their car is here?

Louise *tries to think of an answer quickly despite her fear* They … they went for a walk with the dogs. *Looks at him pleadingly* Please leave.

Suzanne: Afraid we can’t do that until we have our daughter. *Pulls out the fake DNA-test results* We have proof right here that the girl is ours.

Louise *glances inside a little unsure* You will have to wait till Mr. and Mrs. Barrie return; they have Emma with them.

Mark *pushes the door open and walks past Louise* Guess we will have to wait then. *as Barrie appears from his study* Mr. Barrie! What a surprise! I thought you were out for a walk?

Barrie *darkly* Just came back. I know what you are up to and it won’t work. You are not taking Emma! And the police are on their way to arrest you, so I suggest you leave.

Mark *glances back at Suzanne, who’s followed him inside* Sounds like we’re in a hurry, sweetheart.

Suzanne *takes out the pistol and grabs Louise; points the gun at her* Now where’s the kid?

Louise *starts to cry; looks at Barrie pleadingly* Please Mr. Barrie …

Barrie *stares at them; this feels so surreal! Whatever happened to his quiet life with his wife and child? And how can he possibly give Emma to these people? What will happen if he doesn’t?* Louise, I … *looks startled towards the study as he hears Sarah’s voice*

Sarah *shouting from the study* Emma, no! *Barrie stares in shock as Emma runs past him to Mark; he tries to stop her, but Mark already has a firm grip on her and Suzanne is now pointing the gun at Emma*

Emma *with tears in her eyes looks at Barrie* I can’t let them hurt Louise! *Barrie, at a loss for words, stares at them blankly*

Sarah *walks up behind Barrie; tears in her eyes* Please don’t do this to us! *As Mark and Suzanne turn to leave with Emma, Sarah starts to run after them, but is stopped by Barrie*

Barrie *holds on to her tightly* No! They have the gun pointed at Emma, we can’t …

Sarah *struggles to get free of his hold as she watches them leave with Emma* Let me go, please let me go! *Barrie, once he’s heard the car take off, lets go of his hold. Sarah runs outside, but they’re already gone. She falls down on her knees and cries helplessly*

Barrie *quietly goes outside where he finds Sarah on the little walk leading up the house; sinks down next to her and takes her in his arms; cries as he whispers* I’m sorry. I couldn’t risk you and the baby too. I’m sorry …

At the cemetery:

Mercy *carrying a pompous bouquet with carefully arranged flowers and white bands with the text in gold Gothic letters 'In Memory Of My Dear Papa', follows Cavalcanti's security guard who opens the gates of the cemetery for her* I hope that they do have a memorial for the loved ones far away. This looks like a very ancient graveyard. It was my belief that Deppville was not a very old place. *she gazes in wonder at the weather worn old gravestone depicting a knight in armor* After all, it is America, so I really didn't expect to find any monuments dating from the medieval times ...

Guard: Miss, you could chuck those weeds where ever you want. Commander Portsmith has probably imported all these headstones from some European graveyards and raised them over some coyote bones to get an ancient feel.

Mercy: That's preposterous! But how could anyone do such a sacrilege!

Guard: Well, they might be as well bones from her lockups, who knows. Look at that respectable looking family grave with the inscription R.I.P and the name Goodwell. It might be some unfortunate pirate caught unawares at From Hell Court lying under it.

Mercy *stares confused at the headstone* But .. Is this all a fake then?

Guard *moves on, points at a new very simple headstone* No. This is for real. Roberto Pittarri. He was murdered by Kidd. Or maybe Kat. Can't really remember all pirates. And that's Salome the supermodel. She was murdered too, and the murderer still goes free.

Mercy *blinking, suddenly very nervous* Murder? Do you really mean that someone got murdered here in Deppville? Two murders? What a beautiful monument that is, with that miniature statue ... So tender and fragile.

Guard *looks at the horrible statue* Oh, someone has fixed that. It was broken. And it's not one or two murders happening in Deppville. It happens all the time at From Hell Court, but no one cares much about them folks.

Mercy: But that is just horrible! *she gazes at the monument with tears in her eyes. Maybe her husband allows her to start some charity organization for helping the poor and the desperate. She wanders on in amazement* How odd. I never knew that the great poet Alfred Tennyson was buried here. William Gladstone? How remarkable. Look, there's Lady Charlotte Lamb!

Guard *rolls eyes* Oh yes, you will find lots of famous names here, Miss. *he decides it's not worth to rock her little dollhouse word more* Er, I suppose you want to see the unique relic kept in the church.

Mercy: A relic? Do you mean like of a saint?

Guard: None other than John the Baptist. The skull of him when he was twelve. *he laughs* I have heard that the Commander has found some evidence that she is related to him. *he chuckles even more*

Mercy: Oh! Then she must be ... then she is also a relative of ... *she looks at the church with new respect, but then she frowns.* But it is a Catholic church, isn't it?

Guard *unsure* I suppose so.

Mercy *shudders* But I am an Anglican. I can't worship in a Catholic church. What shall I do with this bouquet?

Guard *spots a nice little square with some statue without any inscription. It's an angel, so he deems it suitable* Just leave it here and pray outside the church, will you?

Mercy *carefully lays the flowers at the angel's feet* She is so sweet. *she sits down on the white painted bench, lowers her head and starts to pray as she always does when she brings flowers to Papa's grave. It feels so lonely to be far away from home, but the angel gives her comfort. And she knows that she must not start longing. Papa will be proud of her.*

The Wonkas in London:

Madame *finally in the hospital, fixed up, cleaned, and feeling comfortable, holds Angel in her arms* She almost didn’t make it, Willy.

Willy *signing her records* Nonsense. Says here she's perfectly healthy.

Madame *looks up at him* You're going to call me a liar for what I saw?

Willy *looks up from the papers* What did you see?

Madame: She wasn't alive, Willy. She wasn't moving or breathing. Cole did it. He gave her CPR. She started moving the second time he did it.

Willy *speechless, he wants to hug Cole so tightly, even though he's at home, sleeping soundly after such a dramatic day* But she's healthy as anything.

Madame: I know. And Cole did that.

Willy *puts the papers down, reaches over to take his daughter. Madame carefully hands her over. He runs his fingers over her cheek as she sleeps soundly in a pink blanket* No wonder Cole chose the name he did ...

Madame: I don't think he thought it up, love. I think he was told.

Willy *smiles* Well, no matter what happened in his head, it's perfect. She's an angel. She's our Angel. *Madame nods, closes her eyes, and finally drifts off to sleep. Willy continues to hold the sleeping baby, only watching. It gets dark out, the only thing that lights the room is the light above the bed. And the glow that seems to come off of Angel*