Episode 1.07 “Skeletons in the Closet”
In the Conservatory of Tudor Close, Nurse Silver and Fivel sit at the tea table playing a game of chess when Yvette comes into the room and whispers into Nurse Silver’s ear. Nurse Silver sits upright and smiles at Fivel.
“I’m going to take a quick break.” Nurse Silver says, “Wait right here and I will be back to finish our game.”
“How will you know if I’ve cheated or switched the board around?” Fivel asks
“I’ll trust you.” Nurse Silver says exiting the Conservatory. Fivel follows to the door and watches Yvette and Nurse Silver rush up the stairs eagerly. He stands for a moment and then notices the sounds of angry voices. He rushes to the Kitchen door where he can hear Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock argue.
“I didn’t love him!” Miss Scarlet shouts
“The only man who never took interest in you was Hugh!” Mrs. Peacock shouts
Fivel’s ears perk up at the mention of his soon-to-be stepfather.
“Your father took too much time for you, Ernest loved every inch of you, and Matthew did too.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Ernest was a wicked, horrible man!” Miss Scarlet cries, “My father was just being a father.”
“Well aren’t you lucky then.” Mrs. Peacock says
“When did you and Chandler…” asks Miss Scarlet cutting herself off with a muffled cry
“The details are not important and I suggest we don’t go into that.” Mrs. Peacock says clearing her throat, “We’ve both been played and we are pissed. We unite, work together.”
“Work together with what?” asks Miss Scarlet uneasily
“I have a little someone I want you to talk with,” Mrs. Peacock says, “An old childhood friend actually. I’m sure the two of you will have a lot to catch up on.”
“Melba?” asks Miss Scarlet
“You’ll move on.” Mrs. Peacock says, “We all do. Let’s find that woman before she ends up hurting herself.”
Mrs. Peacock pushes open the Kitchen door, squishing Fivel between the door and the wall.
“Good heavens!” Mrs. Peacock releases the door upon noticing the boy. She bends over and helps him to his feet.
“I’m okay.” Fivel says groggily, holding his palm to his eye
“Let’s have a look at your face.” Mrs. Peacock takes the boy’s head in her hands, “A little scratch above the eyebrow.”
“Oh no!” Fivel says as Mrs. Peacock leads him into the Kitchen to the first aid cabinet.
“What’s the matter?” Mrs. Peacock asks taking a wet cloth to his forehead and wiping the blood.
“Nurse Silver will find out I left the Conservatory and got hurt.” Fivel says
“I’ll talk to Nurse Silver.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Her and I are becoming good friends.”
“Nurse Silver doesn’t like to be friends with anyone.” Fivel says
“What do you mean?” asks Miss Scarlet
“She’s weird.” Fivel says, “She’s always thinking about stuff.”
“What kind of stuff.” Miss Scarlet takes an interest and lifts the boy up on the counter.
“Well she always hums and reads romance novels and she was really shy when she first came to work here.” Fivel says
“A nanny being shy?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“She’s a nurse,” Fivel says, “She was already here when me and my mom moved in. She became my nanny. I guess because Mrs. White is too old.”
“You have atrocious grammar, young man.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I could show you a thing or two in etiquette.”
“I’m not so sure, shouldn’t we look for my mom?” asks Fivel
“I’m sure she’s only just run off.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Come, I will show you a thing or two about grammar to impress her once she gets back.”
“Are you sure that’s a wise thing to do?” asks Miss Scarlet, “I think we need to know why Nurse Silver was working here before Fivel
“You search the ground floor.” Mrs. Peacock says shooing Miss Scarlet away, “I’ll take him to the Library, my favorite room in the house.”
Upstairs in the Attic, Mr. Ash has joined Nurse Silver and Yvette in racing towards the front of the house.
“What were you thinking?” Mr. Ash asks frantically
“I panicked,” Yvette says, “I thought if knocked out, we have time to think. I’m terribly sorry Mr. Ash!”
Nurse Silver crouches to Mr. Green and checks his pulse. Mr. Green moans groggily as Nurse Silver checks his head for cuts or bruises.
“Aside from the bruise where you hit him, he seems unharmed.” Nurse Silver says
“From what it sounds like,” Mr. Ash motions to Mr. Green’s moaning, “He’s going to be awake any moment.”
“Where is Mrs. White?” asks Yvette
“Wandering around the bedrooms like a lost grandmother most likely.” Mr. Ash says
“What the hell!” Mr. Green groans into the carpet.
“Mr. Green, can you hear us?” asks Nurse Silver
“That crazy French girl hit me!” Mr. Green cups the back of his head
“I panicked.” Yvette motions to the room
Mr. Green’s memory comes back and he stands up in the center of the room and looks around him.
“What the hell is going on here?” asks Mr. Green
A frail, withered cough erupts from the head of a long, wooden-framed canopy bed. There are candles upon candles stacked around the room, dripping wax onto books and pages. The old man sitting in the bed holds a book in his hands with a stack of books next to that.
“Sir Benedict,” Mr. Green gasps in shock, “You are supposed to be dead.”
“It is what I’ve wanted for years.” Sir Benedict says gravely, “But they keep this nurse around to torment me.”
“We just need you to stay quiet about this.” Nurse Silver says to Mr. Green
“Can I at least talk to Hugh about this?” asks Mr. Green in greif-striken shock
“Absolutely.” Mr. Ash says as Nurse Silver nods, “Talk to Hugh.”
“Have him explain everything.” Nurse Silver says eagerly
“Don’t say a word of it to anyone aside from Hugh when the two of you are alone.” Mr. Ash says
“Does Mrs. White know?” asks Mr. Green
Mr. Ash thinks for a moment, “She may or may not. Her memory is not what it once used to be; which is the main reason why we hired Yvette.”
“I carry the food upstairs and downstairs since Mrs. White is getting old.” Yvette says
“I can’t believe this.” Mr. Green says staring at Sir Benedict
“I know,” Sir Benedict says, “The minute I heard you were coming I became excited.”
“Oh really?” Mr. Green turns to the man
“Because I knew,” Sir Benedict coughs, “If anyone is going to put me out of my misery, it would be you.”
“You are supposed to be dead.” Mr. Green says
“Talk to Hugh.” Mr. Ash says patting Mr. Green on the shoulder and leading him out of the room.
“Miss Dove is clearly not up here.” Mr. Ash says, “Go with Mrs. White to search upstairs. Then find Hugh.”
Outside by the Garage, Miss Peach and Mr. Clay open the large doors to reveal Dr. Black’s expensive Rolls Royce and several tool cabinets.
“Is it unlocked?” asks Miss Peach
Mr. Clay opens the driver door and checks inside.
“Theres no one in here.” Mr. Clay says
“I was worried for a second that the engine would be running.” Miss Peach says, “Some people commit suicide that way.”
“Once again,” Mr. Clay says, “We need to think positively.”
“I’m so sorry, now I’m just caught up thinking the worst.” Miss Peach says, “You know I don’t wanna be.”
“Let’s just go on to the Tennis Courts.” Mr. Clay says leaving the Garage doors open.
“Shouldn’t we close them?” asks Miss Peach
“Dr. Black will know we checked if we leave it open.” Mr. Clay says
“How do you suppose that keyring disappeared?” asks Miss Peach
“I’m not sure.” Mr. Clay says, “I’m not so convinced the strange happenings around here are conspired plans, but simple coincidences.”
“You mean the keyring might not tag into Miss Dove’s disappearance?” Miss Peach asks
“Exactly!” Mr. Clay says
“Oh dear,” Miss Peach sighs
“What’s wrong?” Mr. Clay stops as they approach the Tennis Courts
“I may be the one responsible for the keyrings.” Miss Peach says
“Excuse me?” asks Mr. Clay
“I’ve kinda been here at Blackwell Grange for a little while.” Miss Peach says, “As I told you, I’m kinda dealing with a little tough spot in my life.”
“Did you bring someone dangerous here with you?” asks Mr. Clay
“I sure hope not, sugar.” Miss Peach pushes her hair back
“Are you being followed?” Mr. Clay asks
Miss Peach nods slowly.
“Jesus Christ!” Mr. Clay says, “Is the guy dangerous?”
“He isn’t the most forgiving.” Miss Peach says, “I’ve heard rumors.”
“We need to tell Hugh, whoever you brought may have taken Miss Dove.” Mr. Clay says
“No!” Miss Peach flails her arms about in distress, “I’m working on this, I need to tell my family in my own way.”
“No,” Mr. Clay says, “You’ve endangered yourself and other people, you have till sundown to tell Hugh or your mother, if you don’t I’m telling Hugh.”
“Please, Mr. Clay!” Miss Peach begs
“That’s final!” Mr. Clay says
Miss Peach rushes off to the Boat House. Mr. Clay shrugs and continues to search around the Tennis Courts. He notices a trace of dried blood in the corner of the court. He bends over and examines it closer. It’s sticky to the touch, but mostly dry.
“It’s been here a while.” Mr. Clay stands up and looks into the woods around him, “Come on, Miss Dove, where did you go and what did you do?”
Without warning the Wrench slams down over the back of Mr. Clay’s head. He drops to the ground of the Tennis Court in a limp heap. Blood begins oozing from the back of his head, mixing with the dried blood.
In the Library, Mrs. Peacock and Fivel stand before the fireplace. Mrs. Peacock is holding a Fireplace Poker in her hand and using it as a pointing object.
“Your shoulders,” Mrs. Peacock points, “Haven’t you ever had a governess?”
“No, I haven’t.” Fivel says, “Do you suppose they’ve found mother yet?”
“I’m sure we will hear from them as soon as they do.” Mrs. Peacock says straightening the boy’s spine.
“Very good, now bow as if greeting a sweet young lady.” Mrs. Peacock watches the boy’s attempt. Though heartfelt and exaggerated, the boy did not impress Mrs. Peacock.
“Relax your shoulders, you react as though you’ve been whipped.” Mrs. Peacock says
Fivel cringes at the memories of his abusive father.
“Oh,” Mrs. Peacock pauses, “Well, carry on. Loosen your shoulder blades; we need confidence for the new heir to the Black dynasty.”
“You are making it out to be a lot more than it is.” Fivel laughs
“You have no idea the business deals you will make.” Mrs. Peacock takes his hands into her own, “The futures you will build with that money. You will do with it what is right.”
Fivel stares uncomfortably at Mrs. Peacock, trying to find a place for his eyes to rest, but every place he tried sent fear and sudden panic in his heart.
“Stand straight,” Mrs. Peacock releases the frightened boy and paces the Library.
Fivel obeys with instant posture change.
“I think your mother and Hugh will like an idea I have proposed.” Mrs. Peacock says
“What is that?” asks Fivel
“I am going to apply for your governess, living here at Blackwell Grange with you and my stepdaughter.” Mrs. Peacock says
“I think it’s a rotten idea.” Fivel snaps, backing away from Mrs. Peacock
“Has your mother already poisoned you against me?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“I don’t like you,” Fivel backs away but Mrs. Peacock snatches him by the shoulders.
“My boy,” Mrs. Peacock says, “It isn’t up to you. And pretty soon it won’t be up to your stupid little mother. It will just be me and you and Hugh and whoever else wants to join in on our perfect little family.”
“But…” Fivel chokes back his words
“It’s what always happens.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Everyone has a dark, scary past.”
Fivel’s eyes widen.
“Congratulation, Fivel,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Your dark, scary past is about to begin. Boy, won’t you have stories to tell.”
Mrs. Peacock releases the boy’s collar and leaves him alone in the dim Library. Fivel rushes and picks up the Fireplace Poker where Mrs. Peacock discarded it. He clutches it tight, pointing it at the door.
From the Cellar doorway, Professor Plum and Colonel Mustard exit.
“Colonel,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Thank you for taking my place.”
“We didn’t end up running into each other until we were both coming out a minute ago.” Colonel Mustard says
“You both couldn’t have missed each other that whole time?” Mrs. Peacock chuckles as Fivel creeps out of the Library and into the Hall, still clutching the Fireplace Poker.
“I suppose my hearing isn’t what it was.” Colonel Mustard says, “I couldn’t find Plum for the life of me.”
“I was calling and calling.” Professor Plum says, “Not a peep back. Your hearing must be slowly fading”
“We’re all falling apart aren’t we?” asks Colonel Mustard
“I’ll say.” Mrs. White says coming down the staircase with Mr. Green.
“Where’s Mr. Boddy and Dr. Black?” Mr. Green asks, “I need to talk with Hugh.”
“Now hold on just a minute,” Mrs. Peacock says, “What seems to be the trouble?”
“I have some pressing personal issues to deal with.” Mr. Green says
“Has anyone seen Mr. Clay?” Miss Peach rushes in the front door, “I don’t know what happened. We got into a fight and I can’t find him anywhere, or my mother or Rusty.”
“Where is Vivienne?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Where’s my mom?” Fivel asks
Colonel Mustard takes the Fireplace Poker from Fivel, “No one has any news yet on Miss Dove?”
Everyone’s faces show the same negative result.
“Let’s take Fivel to the nursery.” Mrs. Peacock suggests
“Come, now deary,” Mrs. White soothes the sadden boy and by taking him up the staircase.
“Who is missing?” asks Colonel Mustard, “We need a head count.”
“I knew splitting up would be a bad idea.” Miss Peach says, “It sounded adventurous at first, but now it just seems scary.”
“Miss Scarlet,” Colonel Mustard counts, “Mr. Clay, Madame Rose, Rusty, Mr. Boddy, Dr. Black, and Miss Dove.”
“The odds that someone else found them are high though?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“No one knows.” Mr. Green says, “Where did Hugh say he was going?”
“The forest.” Professor Plum says
“I’ll be there if you need me.” Mr. Green says
“Shouldn’t we wait together?” Miss Peach asks
“I don’t have time.” Mr. Green says exiting the mansion quickly
“Maybe mama was right.” Miss Peach says, “This trip has become dangerous.”
Upstairs in the Nursery, Fivel enters and angrily kicks off his shoes.
“Fivel,” Mrs. White frowns, “You are upset.”
“Yes,” Fivel shrieks, “Yes I’m upset!”
“Try to put on a happy face.” Mrs. White says pulling his soft, wafts of blonde hair out of his eyes and combing it back
Fivel pulls away from Mrs. White and walks over to the window and looks out at the Lake and Gazebo.
“Something bad is happening here.” Fivel says, tears building up in his eyes as Mrs. White straightens up his pillows and blankets.
“Don’t think that way.” Mrs. White says, “You need to keep a positive outlook.”
“What happened to my mother?” asks Fivel, “It’s not like her to just go away.”
“I don’t know, Fivel.” Mrs. White says
“She wasn’t even herself last night.” Fivel says looking down at the floor
“What do you mean?” asks Mrs. White
“She just seemed…” Fivel pauses, “Different.”
“Fivel,” Mrs. White says after a moment of silent, “Everything will be okay. Nothing is going to happen to you. Just try to relax and calm yourself.”
“But…” Fivel tries to protest
“No,” Mrs. White waves a finger at Fivel, “No more tears, not more worries, everything is under control.”
In the Hall, Dr. Black enters through the front doors, taken back slightly by the sight of so many people gathered, all with solemn faces.
“Any luck?” Dr. Black swallows hard
“No,” Colonel Mustard sighs
Dr. Black shakes his head in frustration and heads towards the Study.
“Where are you going?” asks Miss Peach
“I’m going to call Scotland Yard.” Dr. Black says, “We need a thorough investigation as to where my fiancé has disappeared to.”
“You don’t suppose she will show up sooner or later?” asks Mr. Green
“I will admit I have a bad feeling about this.” Mrs. Peacock comments
“My thoughts exactly!” Dr. Black says
“You don’t think she did something?” asks Professor Plum
“Your guess is as good as mine.” Mr. Green says shaking his head in dismay
Dr. Black turns his back on his guests and turns the handle to the door of his Study. The doorknob sticks and turns with resistance, irritating Dr. Black, who is already beyond irritable due to the day’s circumstances. However as soon as the door opens Dr. Black notices the slack of a metal cable which is fixed to the doorknob and lead across the room to a shotgun which is perched precariously against an armchair and a side table. The sound of the gunshot echoes through the Hall and Study, causing panic and sheer pandemonium to unleash.
The shrapnel of the shotgun scrap across the face and neck of Dr. Black. He stumbles to the floor in terror as Mrs. Peacock and Miss Peach both scream in eerie, harmonizing pitches. Mr. Green withdraws his Revolver and aims at the Study doorway.
“It’s a goddamn trap!” Dr. Black shouts wiping the blood from his face and neck
“Hugh,” Mrs. Peacock rushes over
“Stay back!” Dr. Black says, “All of you get back!”
The guests react with horror to the alarming, terrifying, and vicious discovery.
“Someone tried to kill you!” Mrs. Peacock screams
“It has to be Miss Dove!” Mr. Green says
“She wouldn’t.” Dr. Black stands up
“Where is Vivienne?” asks Mrs. Peacock, “What if she walked into a trap?”
“Miss Dove was acting very strange last night,” Colonel Mustard says, “You have to admit.”
“She wouldn’t have set up this contraption!” Dr. Black shouts
“I heard gunshots.” Mrs. White rushes to the top of the stairs, Fivel following closely behind her
“Fivel stay back!” Mrs. Peacock warns the boy
“What happened?” asks Fivel
“Enough!” Dr. Black’s voice grows coarse and shrill, “I don’t want to hear another word about any of this! Where is Yvette and Mr. Ash.”
“Up in the Attic with Nurse Silver…” Mr. Green says, “Which I need to talk to you about.”
“Not now.” Dr. Black says pushing past Mr. Green and turning to Mrs. White, “Go take Fivel to the Nursery.”
“Where is my mother?” asks Fivel, “Why did we hear a gunshot?”
“Go!” Dr. Black points
“Dr. Black what is going on?” asks Mrs. White with nervousness clear in her voice
“We’re all going to die.” Miss Peach breathes in and out heavily
“Dammit, Melba!” Colonel Mustard says, “There is a child present.”
“Where is my mother?” Fivel demands
“Mrs. White, take the boy to the Nursery, now!” Dr. Black shouts
Mrs. White takes the boy by the shoulders and leads him off upstairs.
“Hugh?” Mrs. Peacock speaks up
Dr. Black looks around to see everyone in the Hall is staring at him with fear in their eyes.
“Do we call the police?” asks Professor Plum
“I need to think!” Dr. Black says
The Hall falls silent.
“Mr. Boddy, Mr. Clay, Miss Scarlet, and Miss Dove are still missing.” Colonel Mustard points out after a long moment of silence.
“Hopefully Vivienne and Mr. Clay are together.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Mr. Clay was alone the last time I saw him.” Miss Peach says, “Where is my mother and Rusty?”
“Still in the gardens?” Mr. Green asks
“They must still be in the Gate House.” Miss Peach says
“Someone wanted me dead.” Dr. Black says after a moment of reflection, “That shotgun doesn’t belong to any shotgun collection I have here. Someone brought it with the intent of murder.”
Thunder begins to rumble in the distance.
“Miss Dove?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Perhaps…” Dr. Black says, “Perhaps she is also in danger. Perhaps every single one of us is in danger.”
“What do we do?” asks Mr. Green
“We need to figure out what is happening!” Colonel Mustard says
“There is absolutely no point.” Dr. Black says in defeat
“I’m really scared, Uncle Hugh.” Miss Peach says
“Then you have common sense.” Dr. Black says, “I don’t know what is happening here but my sister was right.”
“We are all going to die?” Miss Peach shrieks
“We need to find the others.” Colonel Mustard says
“We are not splitting up!” Dr. Black says
“It could be any one of us.” Mr. Green says
“Are you certain there is no one else we are forgetting?”
After a certain head count and Mr. Green informing the others that Nurse Silver, Mr. Ash, and Yvette are ‘tending’ to something upstairs, they determine that Mr. Clay, Miss Scarlet, Mr. Boddy, and Miss Dove are, in fact, the only people unaccounted for.
“Hugh?” Mrs. Peacock breaks the silence in nervousness
Dr. Black is holding his sleeve to the side of his head.
“I’ll call the police.” Professor Plum says entering the Library.
“Please say something.” Miss Peach turns to Dr. Black
Dr. Black pushes past Miss Peach and Mrs. Peacock forcefully and enters the Billiard Room.
“Should we go with him?” asks Miss Peach
“I know Hugh better than anyone.” Colonel Mustard says, “He needs a moment alone.”
“This is a nightmare.” Professor Plum says
“I’m a little more concerned about what lies around each corner.” Mr. Green says
To Be Continued…
“I’m going to take a quick break.” Nurse Silver says, “Wait right here and I will be back to finish our game.”
“How will you know if I’ve cheated or switched the board around?” Fivel asks
“I’ll trust you.” Nurse Silver says exiting the Conservatory. Fivel follows to the door and watches Yvette and Nurse Silver rush up the stairs eagerly. He stands for a moment and then notices the sounds of angry voices. He rushes to the Kitchen door where he can hear Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock argue.
“I didn’t love him!” Miss Scarlet shouts
“The only man who never took interest in you was Hugh!” Mrs. Peacock shouts
Fivel’s ears perk up at the mention of his soon-to-be stepfather.
“Your father took too much time for you, Ernest loved every inch of you, and Matthew did too.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Ernest was a wicked, horrible man!” Miss Scarlet cries, “My father was just being a father.”
“Well aren’t you lucky then.” Mrs. Peacock says
“When did you and Chandler…” asks Miss Scarlet cutting herself off with a muffled cry
“The details are not important and I suggest we don’t go into that.” Mrs. Peacock says clearing her throat, “We’ve both been played and we are pissed. We unite, work together.”
“Work together with what?” asks Miss Scarlet uneasily
“I have a little someone I want you to talk with,” Mrs. Peacock says, “An old childhood friend actually. I’m sure the two of you will have a lot to catch up on.”
“Melba?” asks Miss Scarlet
“You’ll move on.” Mrs. Peacock says, “We all do. Let’s find that woman before she ends up hurting herself.”
Mrs. Peacock pushes open the Kitchen door, squishing Fivel between the door and the wall.
“Good heavens!” Mrs. Peacock releases the door upon noticing the boy. She bends over and helps him to his feet.
“I’m okay.” Fivel says groggily, holding his palm to his eye
“Let’s have a look at your face.” Mrs. Peacock takes the boy’s head in her hands, “A little scratch above the eyebrow.”
“Oh no!” Fivel says as Mrs. Peacock leads him into the Kitchen to the first aid cabinet.
“What’s the matter?” Mrs. Peacock asks taking a wet cloth to his forehead and wiping the blood.
“Nurse Silver will find out I left the Conservatory and got hurt.” Fivel says
“I’ll talk to Nurse Silver.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Her and I are becoming good friends.”
“Nurse Silver doesn’t like to be friends with anyone.” Fivel says
“What do you mean?” asks Miss Scarlet
“She’s weird.” Fivel says, “She’s always thinking about stuff.”
“What kind of stuff.” Miss Scarlet takes an interest and lifts the boy up on the counter.
“Well she always hums and reads romance novels and she was really shy when she first came to work here.” Fivel says
“A nanny being shy?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“She’s a nurse,” Fivel says, “She was already here when me and my mom moved in. She became my nanny. I guess because Mrs. White is too old.”
“You have atrocious grammar, young man.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I could show you a thing or two in etiquette.”
“I’m not so sure, shouldn’t we look for my mom?” asks Fivel
“I’m sure she’s only just run off.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Come, I will show you a thing or two about grammar to impress her once she gets back.”
“Are you sure that’s a wise thing to do?” asks Miss Scarlet, “I think we need to know why Nurse Silver was working here before Fivel
“You search the ground floor.” Mrs. Peacock says shooing Miss Scarlet away, “I’ll take him to the Library, my favorite room in the house.”
Upstairs in the Attic, Mr. Ash has joined Nurse Silver and Yvette in racing towards the front of the house.
“What were you thinking?” Mr. Ash asks frantically
“I panicked,” Yvette says, “I thought if knocked out, we have time to think. I’m terribly sorry Mr. Ash!”
Nurse Silver crouches to Mr. Green and checks his pulse. Mr. Green moans groggily as Nurse Silver checks his head for cuts or bruises.
“Aside from the bruise where you hit him, he seems unharmed.” Nurse Silver says
“From what it sounds like,” Mr. Ash motions to Mr. Green’s moaning, “He’s going to be awake any moment.”
“Where is Mrs. White?” asks Yvette
“Wandering around the bedrooms like a lost grandmother most likely.” Mr. Ash says
“What the hell!” Mr. Green groans into the carpet.
“Mr. Green, can you hear us?” asks Nurse Silver
“That crazy French girl hit me!” Mr. Green cups the back of his head
“I panicked.” Yvette motions to the room
Mr. Green’s memory comes back and he stands up in the center of the room and looks around him.
“What the hell is going on here?” asks Mr. Green
A frail, withered cough erupts from the head of a long, wooden-framed canopy bed. There are candles upon candles stacked around the room, dripping wax onto books and pages. The old man sitting in the bed holds a book in his hands with a stack of books next to that.
“Sir Benedict,” Mr. Green gasps in shock, “You are supposed to be dead.”
“It is what I’ve wanted for years.” Sir Benedict says gravely, “But they keep this nurse around to torment me.”
“We just need you to stay quiet about this.” Nurse Silver says to Mr. Green
“Can I at least talk to Hugh about this?” asks Mr. Green in greif-striken shock
“Absolutely.” Mr. Ash says as Nurse Silver nods, “Talk to Hugh.”
“Have him explain everything.” Nurse Silver says eagerly
“Don’t say a word of it to anyone aside from Hugh when the two of you are alone.” Mr. Ash says
“Does Mrs. White know?” asks Mr. Green
Mr. Ash thinks for a moment, “She may or may not. Her memory is not what it once used to be; which is the main reason why we hired Yvette.”
“I carry the food upstairs and downstairs since Mrs. White is getting old.” Yvette says
“I can’t believe this.” Mr. Green says staring at Sir Benedict
“I know,” Sir Benedict says, “The minute I heard you were coming I became excited.”
“Oh really?” Mr. Green turns to the man
“Because I knew,” Sir Benedict coughs, “If anyone is going to put me out of my misery, it would be you.”
“You are supposed to be dead.” Mr. Green says
“Talk to Hugh.” Mr. Ash says patting Mr. Green on the shoulder and leading him out of the room.
“Miss Dove is clearly not up here.” Mr. Ash says, “Go with Mrs. White to search upstairs. Then find Hugh.”
Outside by the Garage, Miss Peach and Mr. Clay open the large doors to reveal Dr. Black’s expensive Rolls Royce and several tool cabinets.
“Is it unlocked?” asks Miss Peach
Mr. Clay opens the driver door and checks inside.
“Theres no one in here.” Mr. Clay says
“I was worried for a second that the engine would be running.” Miss Peach says, “Some people commit suicide that way.”
“Once again,” Mr. Clay says, “We need to think positively.”
“I’m so sorry, now I’m just caught up thinking the worst.” Miss Peach says, “You know I don’t wanna be.”
“Let’s just go on to the Tennis Courts.” Mr. Clay says leaving the Garage doors open.
“Shouldn’t we close them?” asks Miss Peach
“Dr. Black will know we checked if we leave it open.” Mr. Clay says
“How do you suppose that keyring disappeared?” asks Miss Peach
“I’m not sure.” Mr. Clay says, “I’m not so convinced the strange happenings around here are conspired plans, but simple coincidences.”
“You mean the keyring might not tag into Miss Dove’s disappearance?” Miss Peach asks
“Exactly!” Mr. Clay says
“Oh dear,” Miss Peach sighs
“What’s wrong?” Mr. Clay stops as they approach the Tennis Courts
“I may be the one responsible for the keyrings.” Miss Peach says
“Excuse me?” asks Mr. Clay
“I’ve kinda been here at Blackwell Grange for a little while.” Miss Peach says, “As I told you, I’m kinda dealing with a little tough spot in my life.”
“Did you bring someone dangerous here with you?” asks Mr. Clay
“I sure hope not, sugar.” Miss Peach pushes her hair back
“Are you being followed?” Mr. Clay asks
Miss Peach nods slowly.
“Jesus Christ!” Mr. Clay says, “Is the guy dangerous?”
“He isn’t the most forgiving.” Miss Peach says, “I’ve heard rumors.”
“We need to tell Hugh, whoever you brought may have taken Miss Dove.” Mr. Clay says
“No!” Miss Peach flails her arms about in distress, “I’m working on this, I need to tell my family in my own way.”
“No,” Mr. Clay says, “You’ve endangered yourself and other people, you have till sundown to tell Hugh or your mother, if you don’t I’m telling Hugh.”
“Please, Mr. Clay!” Miss Peach begs
“That’s final!” Mr. Clay says
Miss Peach rushes off to the Boat House. Mr. Clay shrugs and continues to search around the Tennis Courts. He notices a trace of dried blood in the corner of the court. He bends over and examines it closer. It’s sticky to the touch, but mostly dry.
“It’s been here a while.” Mr. Clay stands up and looks into the woods around him, “Come on, Miss Dove, where did you go and what did you do?”
Without warning the Wrench slams down over the back of Mr. Clay’s head. He drops to the ground of the Tennis Court in a limp heap. Blood begins oozing from the back of his head, mixing with the dried blood.
In the Library, Mrs. Peacock and Fivel stand before the fireplace. Mrs. Peacock is holding a Fireplace Poker in her hand and using it as a pointing object.
“Your shoulders,” Mrs. Peacock points, “Haven’t you ever had a governess?”
“No, I haven’t.” Fivel says, “Do you suppose they’ve found mother yet?”
“I’m sure we will hear from them as soon as they do.” Mrs. Peacock says straightening the boy’s spine.
“Very good, now bow as if greeting a sweet young lady.” Mrs. Peacock watches the boy’s attempt. Though heartfelt and exaggerated, the boy did not impress Mrs. Peacock.
“Relax your shoulders, you react as though you’ve been whipped.” Mrs. Peacock says
Fivel cringes at the memories of his abusive father.
“Oh,” Mrs. Peacock pauses, “Well, carry on. Loosen your shoulder blades; we need confidence for the new heir to the Black dynasty.”
“You are making it out to be a lot more than it is.” Fivel laughs
“You have no idea the business deals you will make.” Mrs. Peacock takes his hands into her own, “The futures you will build with that money. You will do with it what is right.”
Fivel stares uncomfortably at Mrs. Peacock, trying to find a place for his eyes to rest, but every place he tried sent fear and sudden panic in his heart.
“Stand straight,” Mrs. Peacock releases the frightened boy and paces the Library.
Fivel obeys with instant posture change.
“I think your mother and Hugh will like an idea I have proposed.” Mrs. Peacock says
“What is that?” asks Fivel
“I am going to apply for your governess, living here at Blackwell Grange with you and my stepdaughter.” Mrs. Peacock says
“I think it’s a rotten idea.” Fivel snaps, backing away from Mrs. Peacock
“Has your mother already poisoned you against me?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“I don’t like you,” Fivel backs away but Mrs. Peacock snatches him by the shoulders.
“My boy,” Mrs. Peacock says, “It isn’t up to you. And pretty soon it won’t be up to your stupid little mother. It will just be me and you and Hugh and whoever else wants to join in on our perfect little family.”
“But…” Fivel chokes back his words
“It’s what always happens.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Everyone has a dark, scary past.”
Fivel’s eyes widen.
“Congratulation, Fivel,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Your dark, scary past is about to begin. Boy, won’t you have stories to tell.”
Mrs. Peacock releases the boy’s collar and leaves him alone in the dim Library. Fivel rushes and picks up the Fireplace Poker where Mrs. Peacock discarded it. He clutches it tight, pointing it at the door.
From the Cellar doorway, Professor Plum and Colonel Mustard exit.
“Colonel,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Thank you for taking my place.”
“We didn’t end up running into each other until we were both coming out a minute ago.” Colonel Mustard says
“You both couldn’t have missed each other that whole time?” Mrs. Peacock chuckles as Fivel creeps out of the Library and into the Hall, still clutching the Fireplace Poker.
“I suppose my hearing isn’t what it was.” Colonel Mustard says, “I couldn’t find Plum for the life of me.”
“I was calling and calling.” Professor Plum says, “Not a peep back. Your hearing must be slowly fading”
“We’re all falling apart aren’t we?” asks Colonel Mustard
“I’ll say.” Mrs. White says coming down the staircase with Mr. Green.
“Where’s Mr. Boddy and Dr. Black?” Mr. Green asks, “I need to talk with Hugh.”
“Now hold on just a minute,” Mrs. Peacock says, “What seems to be the trouble?”
“I have some pressing personal issues to deal with.” Mr. Green says
“Has anyone seen Mr. Clay?” Miss Peach rushes in the front door, “I don’t know what happened. We got into a fight and I can’t find him anywhere, or my mother or Rusty.”
“Where is Vivienne?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Where’s my mom?” Fivel asks
Colonel Mustard takes the Fireplace Poker from Fivel, “No one has any news yet on Miss Dove?”
Everyone’s faces show the same negative result.
“Let’s take Fivel to the nursery.” Mrs. Peacock suggests
“Come, now deary,” Mrs. White soothes the sadden boy and by taking him up the staircase.
“Who is missing?” asks Colonel Mustard, “We need a head count.”
“I knew splitting up would be a bad idea.” Miss Peach says, “It sounded adventurous at first, but now it just seems scary.”
“Miss Scarlet,” Colonel Mustard counts, “Mr. Clay, Madame Rose, Rusty, Mr. Boddy, Dr. Black, and Miss Dove.”
“The odds that someone else found them are high though?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“No one knows.” Mr. Green says, “Where did Hugh say he was going?”
“The forest.” Professor Plum says
“I’ll be there if you need me.” Mr. Green says
“Shouldn’t we wait together?” Miss Peach asks
“I don’t have time.” Mr. Green says exiting the mansion quickly
“Maybe mama was right.” Miss Peach says, “This trip has become dangerous.”
Upstairs in the Nursery, Fivel enters and angrily kicks off his shoes.
“Fivel,” Mrs. White frowns, “You are upset.”
“Yes,” Fivel shrieks, “Yes I’m upset!”
“Try to put on a happy face.” Mrs. White says pulling his soft, wafts of blonde hair out of his eyes and combing it back
Fivel pulls away from Mrs. White and walks over to the window and looks out at the Lake and Gazebo.
“Something bad is happening here.” Fivel says, tears building up in his eyes as Mrs. White straightens up his pillows and blankets.
“Don’t think that way.” Mrs. White says, “You need to keep a positive outlook.”
“What happened to my mother?” asks Fivel, “It’s not like her to just go away.”
“I don’t know, Fivel.” Mrs. White says
“She wasn’t even herself last night.” Fivel says looking down at the floor
“What do you mean?” asks Mrs. White
“She just seemed…” Fivel pauses, “Different.”
“Fivel,” Mrs. White says after a moment of silent, “Everything will be okay. Nothing is going to happen to you. Just try to relax and calm yourself.”
“But…” Fivel tries to protest
“No,” Mrs. White waves a finger at Fivel, “No more tears, not more worries, everything is under control.”
In the Hall, Dr. Black enters through the front doors, taken back slightly by the sight of so many people gathered, all with solemn faces.
“Any luck?” Dr. Black swallows hard
“No,” Colonel Mustard sighs
Dr. Black shakes his head in frustration and heads towards the Study.
“Where are you going?” asks Miss Peach
“I’m going to call Scotland Yard.” Dr. Black says, “We need a thorough investigation as to where my fiancé has disappeared to.”
“You don’t suppose she will show up sooner or later?” asks Mr. Green
“I will admit I have a bad feeling about this.” Mrs. Peacock comments
“My thoughts exactly!” Dr. Black says
“You don’t think she did something?” asks Professor Plum
“Your guess is as good as mine.” Mr. Green says shaking his head in dismay
Dr. Black turns his back on his guests and turns the handle to the door of his Study. The doorknob sticks and turns with resistance, irritating Dr. Black, who is already beyond irritable due to the day’s circumstances. However as soon as the door opens Dr. Black notices the slack of a metal cable which is fixed to the doorknob and lead across the room to a shotgun which is perched precariously against an armchair and a side table. The sound of the gunshot echoes through the Hall and Study, causing panic and sheer pandemonium to unleash.
The shrapnel of the shotgun scrap across the face and neck of Dr. Black. He stumbles to the floor in terror as Mrs. Peacock and Miss Peach both scream in eerie, harmonizing pitches. Mr. Green withdraws his Revolver and aims at the Study doorway.
“It’s a goddamn trap!” Dr. Black shouts wiping the blood from his face and neck
“Hugh,” Mrs. Peacock rushes over
“Stay back!” Dr. Black says, “All of you get back!”
The guests react with horror to the alarming, terrifying, and vicious discovery.
“Someone tried to kill you!” Mrs. Peacock screams
“It has to be Miss Dove!” Mr. Green says
“She wouldn’t.” Dr. Black stands up
“Where is Vivienne?” asks Mrs. Peacock, “What if she walked into a trap?”
“Miss Dove was acting very strange last night,” Colonel Mustard says, “You have to admit.”
“She wouldn’t have set up this contraption!” Dr. Black shouts
“I heard gunshots.” Mrs. White rushes to the top of the stairs, Fivel following closely behind her
“Fivel stay back!” Mrs. Peacock warns the boy
“What happened?” asks Fivel
“Enough!” Dr. Black’s voice grows coarse and shrill, “I don’t want to hear another word about any of this! Where is Yvette and Mr. Ash.”
“Up in the Attic with Nurse Silver…” Mr. Green says, “Which I need to talk to you about.”
“Not now.” Dr. Black says pushing past Mr. Green and turning to Mrs. White, “Go take Fivel to the Nursery.”
“Where is my mother?” asks Fivel, “Why did we hear a gunshot?”
“Go!” Dr. Black points
“Dr. Black what is going on?” asks Mrs. White with nervousness clear in her voice
“We’re all going to die.” Miss Peach breathes in and out heavily
“Dammit, Melba!” Colonel Mustard says, “There is a child present.”
“Where is my mother?” Fivel demands
“Mrs. White, take the boy to the Nursery, now!” Dr. Black shouts
Mrs. White takes the boy by the shoulders and leads him off upstairs.
“Hugh?” Mrs. Peacock speaks up
Dr. Black looks around to see everyone in the Hall is staring at him with fear in their eyes.
“Do we call the police?” asks Professor Plum
“I need to think!” Dr. Black says
The Hall falls silent.
“Mr. Boddy, Mr. Clay, Miss Scarlet, and Miss Dove are still missing.” Colonel Mustard points out after a long moment of silence.
“Hopefully Vivienne and Mr. Clay are together.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Mr. Clay was alone the last time I saw him.” Miss Peach says, “Where is my mother and Rusty?”
“Still in the gardens?” Mr. Green asks
“They must still be in the Gate House.” Miss Peach says
“Someone wanted me dead.” Dr. Black says after a moment of reflection, “That shotgun doesn’t belong to any shotgun collection I have here. Someone brought it with the intent of murder.”
Thunder begins to rumble in the distance.
“Miss Dove?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Perhaps…” Dr. Black says, “Perhaps she is also in danger. Perhaps every single one of us is in danger.”
“What do we do?” asks Mr. Green
“We need to figure out what is happening!” Colonel Mustard says
“There is absolutely no point.” Dr. Black says in defeat
“I’m really scared, Uncle Hugh.” Miss Peach says
“Then you have common sense.” Dr. Black says, “I don’t know what is happening here but my sister was right.”
“We are all going to die?” Miss Peach shrieks
“We need to find the others.” Colonel Mustard says
“We are not splitting up!” Dr. Black says
“It could be any one of us.” Mr. Green says
“Are you certain there is no one else we are forgetting?”
After a certain head count and Mr. Green informing the others that Nurse Silver, Mr. Ash, and Yvette are ‘tending’ to something upstairs, they determine that Mr. Clay, Miss Scarlet, Mr. Boddy, and Miss Dove are, in fact, the only people unaccounted for.
“Hugh?” Mrs. Peacock breaks the silence in nervousness
Dr. Black is holding his sleeve to the side of his head.
“I’ll call the police.” Professor Plum says entering the Library.
“Please say something.” Miss Peach turns to Dr. Black
Dr. Black pushes past Miss Peach and Mrs. Peacock forcefully and enters the Billiard Room.
“Should we go with him?” asks Miss Peach
“I know Hugh better than anyone.” Colonel Mustard says, “He needs a moment alone.”
“This is a nightmare.” Professor Plum says
“I’m a little more concerned about what lies around each corner.” Mr. Green says
To Be Continued…