Episode 2.02 “The Storm Ahead”
Monsieur Alphonse Brunette sits with his back against the wall of his cabin, deep within Sekhmet’s Tears. He holds a knife in his hand and is visibly exhausted. Around him the entire room has been ransacked. Paintings have been removed from the walls and the backs have been slashed open. The upholstery on the chair has also been battered and cut along the edges.
“Nothing.” Monsieur Brunette wipes his forehead, “Crazy, old drunk! There isn’t a trace of anything.”
Defeated, Monsieur Brunette stands up and begins to straighten out his humble room. Upon setting the chair upright he notices a loose, wooden clanking sound. Determined, he begins to examine the chair. Nothing budges or makes the loose, wooden clanking noise again. He traces his fingers along the wooden frame and even tests the tightness/looseness of the bolts holding the chair together.
“I heard something before!” Monsieur Brunette says out loud, with clear frustration, “I know my mind isn’t playing tricks on me.”
Monsieur Brunette takes the knife and fully tears open the back of the chair, he begins digging through cloth, cotton, wood, and springs for a trace of anything that may have been left by the previous occupant.
“This is ridiculous!” he sits down in the chair with frustration. As soon as he makes contact with the chair he hears the loose, wood clanking noise. His eyes spring open – fully alert! He gets off the chair and soon finds that the source of the noise is the floorboard, not the chair. Monsieur Brunette stares at the loose floorboard for a moment and then pushes the chair aside. Carefully, he traces the edge of the floorboard with his fingers. It is clear by the splintering of the wood that someone had opened this board recently. He uses his knife to lift up the board on one side. He pulls it up and sees a folded piece of paper. With trembling hands, he retrieves the paper from the dark, dusty space between the decks.
Several decks above him, Prince Azure strolls outside, taking deep breaths of the ocean air. Mr. Saffron walks several steps behind him.
“Why is the north star there?” Prince Azure grabs a telescope from the nearest crew member, “Who ordered this ship to be sent south?”
Captain Brown comes down from the wheel, “That would be my fault.”
“Robert, turn this ship around.” Prince Azure says tossing the telescope to Captain Brown, “We need to get to Plymouth before nightfall!”
“There is a storm,” Captain Brown lies, “We need to avoid it all together. Perhaps we should dock somewhere tonight. I’m sure some of us would rather wait out the storm in a nice warm tavern.”
“The skies are crystal clear.” Prince Azure says
“I can feel it in my bones.” Captain Brown says, “But if you want to risk the safety of the crew…”
“Dock us.” Prince Azure rubs his temples in frustration, “If the storm isn’t here by sundown, we ride full speed in the night.”
Captain Brown smirks, “Thank you, your highness. I’m sure everyone will be grateful.”
Prince Azure heads back into the ship with Mr. Saffron.
“Head north, we’ll stop at the nearest port-town.” Captain Brown announces
At Blackwell Grange, in the Conservatory, Mrs. Peacock gently mists the plants in the window boxes with a small spray bottle filled with water. Miss Scarlet enters and dramatically throws herself down onto the wicker sofa. She lets out a long moan.
“What?” asks Mrs. Peacock, feigning interest in her stepdaughter’s daily struggles.
“I can’t do it!” Miss Scarlet says digging her nails into the arm of the sofa, “He knows I’m just trying to seduce him as a backup plan.”
“I wasn’t counting on him being smart. Normally most men take one look at your chest and they can’t remember their first name. Don’t worry, darling.” Mrs. Peacock kisses her stepdaughter on the forehead; the gesture being more symbolic than out of love, “I’ve got everything taken care of.”
“The money?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Don’t worry your pretty little head about it.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Just get John to fall in love with you.”
“Patricia, please…” Miss Scarlet grabs her hand, “I can’t do it. I just lost Chandler! Don’t make me use my body for you. Not again.”
“Vivienne, it’s different this time.” Mrs. Peacock pulls her hand away, “This time you are the one benefitting. You are an adult and you are in charge of your own money.”
“I don’t want to be with John, I want Chandler back.” Miss Scarlet says
“Chandler’s never coming back.” Mrs. Peacock says, “He is with that slutty nurse.”
Miss Scarlet cringes and grinds her teeth, “I wish that bitch’s neck would have snapped when she fell from the balcony.”
“That’s it,” Mrs. Peacock encourages, “Fuel your anger into your lust for the Black-Boddy fortune.”
Miss Scarlet sits up, “Did you truly love my father? Or was he just another man with money?”
Mrs. Peacock is silent for a moment.
“You can tell me the truth.” Miss Scarlet says, “There’s no point in protecting anyone’s feelings.”
“I’m trying to remember.” Mrs. Peacock stares off out the windows, “I know I was still very in love with Hugh when I met your father. But I do believe there was a time when we were truly in love.”
“What about Ernest?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I was a wreck after your father’s death.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Ernest was a mistake. We both know that.”
Miss Scarlet is silent. She slowly stands up and walks to the Hall door.
“I’m sorry.” Mrs. Peacock says
“It’s easy money,” Miss Scarlet closes her eyes, “Spreading your legs for the rich men. Isn’t that what you always told me? Easy money? You scarred me.”
Miss Scarlet enters the Hall and slams the Conservatory door. Mrs. Peacock sighs and opens the door leading outside. She lets the fresh air greet her as her eyes catch Professor Plum, Nurse Silver, and Mr. Clay in the Gazebo.
“Ah,” Professor Plum says, “The lady of the manor.”
Mrs. Peacock smiles, unsure if there was intended sarcasm or if the comment just came out wrong.
“Has the priest arrived yet?” asks Nurse Silver
“Reverend Green is in the Library with his nephew,” Mrs. Peacock says
“It’s so hard to imagine Mr. Green having an uncle in the clergy.” Professor Plum says
“I think what Professor Plum is trying to say,” Mr. Clay interrupts, “It’s no big secret that Mr. Green is involved in some dirty work.”
“I suppose we all have our sorted pasts.” Mrs. Peacock says with a shrug
Nurse Silver is silent, “Who is that woman?” she points out the garden where Miss Peach stands talking to a tall oriental woman in a purple kimono.
“That’s Lady Lavender.” Mrs. Peacock says, “She is the young widow of the late Lord Lawrence Lavender. The Lavender’s and the Boddy’s are blood relatives. I believe cousins.”
“Oh, so she married into the wealthy family?” Nurse Silver asks
“That seems to be a signature trait around here.” Professor Plum says half to himself
“Watch yourself,” Nurse Silver stands up and smoothes out her dress, “If you’ll forgive me, I am rather intrigued by this foreign beauty. I must meet her before I leave.”
Nurse Silver and Mr. Clay leave Professor Plum and Mrs. Peacock alone in the Gazebo. Mrs. Peacock sits on the steps next to a funny looking, concrete Lawn Gnome.
“Look at this whimsical little fellow!” Mrs. Peacock picks him up
“I hope you’ll forgive the comment I made.” Professor Plum says
“No need to apologize.” Mrs. Peacock says setting the Gnome back down, “I’ve come to embrace what I am. People call me
‘The Black Widow’. They think it’s their own private joke and act like I don’t know… they act like I can’t hear them.”
“I’m sorry,” Professor Plum offers a hand to her
She takes it and pulls herself up from where she is sitting, “I used to run a brothel when I was in my early 20s. It was before I was married of course. I used to train teenage girls how to really make a man happy. I taught them to use what they have as a lure, as a bargaining piece, and as a weapon. I… I still know some women still in the business. Yvette was nothing more than a Thursday night delight before she was hired on as a maid.”
“My god,” Professor Plum sits down on a rocking chair, “I need a minute.”
“I know you cared for Yvette,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I was happy to see her free from the burden. I’m just sorry she ended up here… with these people.”
“Vivienne,” Professor Plum says, barely audible
“What?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“Did you teach Vivienne the same things?” Professor Plum asks
Mrs. Peacock looks out at the calm lake, “She turned out fine. I kept her more dignified. I made sure she would be treated like a lady. I only provided the finest and richest men for my little Vivienne.”
“At what age?” asks Professor Plum
“It wasn’t just about sex.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It was about the lure, the seduction, the desire that men get when a woman puts on a show. It makes them spend like fools.”
“You are wicked.” Professor Plum stands up, “I don’t know if I can stay in the same house as you.”
“Well, darling,” Mrs. Peacock shrugs, “I’m not leaving until John Boddy turns eighteen this winter. Surely you can put up with me for a few months.”
“I could live with the husband murdering,” Professor Plum says descending the Gazebo steps, “But the child soliciting is where I draw the line.”
“Isn’t it true you murdered your own wife after she caught you taking advantage of a patient?” Mrs. Peacock crosses her arms, “A fragile young girl? She was probably no older than Vivienne was when she had her first man.”
Those words strike Professor Plum with a deadening crush.
“You said your wife died by an accident.” Mrs. Peacock says, “You never talk about her. You never talk about what happened. It’s almost as if you are too scared that the whole situation is still very fragile and easy to see through.”
“So now what?” Professor Plum says, “Are you going to blackmail me? We have dirt on each other. We will both be hanged for our crimes. Is that what you would like?”
“I’d like you to know that you are safe here at Blackwell Grange.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’m not going to tell anyone what you did, and in return, you are not going to judge me for what I did.”
“It’s not as simple as that.” Professor Plum says
“Try talking to Reverend Green about forgiveness.” Mrs. Peacock says brushing past him and towards the Conservatory, “It could do you a lot of good to forgive and move forward. You are so uptight and quiet it’s surprising how you managed to get a wife in the first place.”
Mrs. Peacock leaves Professor Plum alone with tight fists and a clenched jaw.
In the Garden, Miss Peach and Lady Lavender talk amongst themselves while Mr. Meadow-Brook sits on a stone bench surrounded by roses.
“It’s a shame your mother will not be attending her own brother’s memorial.” Lady Lavender puts her hand on Miss Peach’s shoulder.
“I don’t know my mother very well,” Miss Peach says, “But she takes this psychic stuff awful serious.”
“How exciting!” Lady Lavender says, “I happen to know a little bit about fortune telling myself.”
“Oh that’s fun!” Miss Peach says, “What do you see ahead for me and my dashing gentleman?”
“Ladies,” Mr. Clay greets as he and Nurse Silver join them
“Goodness,” Miss Peach puts her hand over her heart, “Ya’ll scared me half to death.”
“I’m afraid we haven’t had the pleasure of meeting,” Nurse Silver extends her hand to Lady Lavender
“Mai-Ling,” Lady Lavender says
“Constantine,” Nurse Silver replies, “I was so sorry to hear about your husband’s death. Come walk with me, I have so many things to tell you.”
“But we’ve just met.” Lady Lavender says rather taken back
“Oh, but I’m leaving soon,” Nurse Silver begs, “I have a family emergency to tend to and I was to be cordial to our new guest.”
Nurse Silver and Lady Lavender walk off together. Miss Peach turns to Mr. Clay who is walking over to Mr. Meadow-Brook. She meets him over by Mr. Meadow-Brook. Mr. Meadow-Brook closes his briefcase upon the arrival of the two.
“You must be the lawyer we’ve been hearing about.” Miss Peach smiles, “I’m Melba, Rose’s daughter.”
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook thinks for a moment, “You grew up in America?”
“Yes,” Miss Peach chuckles, “The family tree is a bit confusing, I know. What makes it confusing is why there is no Benedict Black the Fifth.”
“I’ve often wondered that.” Mr. Clay says
“My grandfather is Benedict Black IV, why didn’t he name his first born son Benedict to carry on the tradition?” Miss Peach chuckles, “I’ll have to ask grandfather about that some time.”
“It’s best if you didn’t.” Mr. Meadow-Brook raises his hand, “Hugh Black was not Benedict and Beatrice’s eldest son. There was in fact a Benedict Black V, but he died as an infant. It was before Rose was born. It was around the time… well, you know.”
“No,” Miss Peach says, visibly annoyed by Mr. Meadow-Brook’s baiting
“You do know about your grandmother’s history?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“What happened with my grandmother?” Miss Peach puts her hands on her hips, “What has everyone been keeping from me? Is there something I need to know?”
Mr. Meadow-Brook’s hands become shaky. He looks up at the tall gothic structure before him. The roof of Blackwell Grange is lined with gargoyles, giving it an ominous, foreboding atmosphere when glanced at from center angles. For Miles Meadow-Brook, this was one of those angles.
“I wish I could chat more,” Mr. Meadow-Brook gathers his things, “But I need to be getting home to my wife. I have the rest of the day off and she and I were planning on spending the day together.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook walks quickly passed the Garden’s hedges and towards the Gate House where his car is parked.
“That was odd.” Mr. Clay says laughing at Mr. Meadow-Brook’s skittish behavior
“Ya know what else is odd?” Miss Peach takes a piece of chewing gum from her purse and puts it in her mouth, “Nurse Silver sure wanted to get herself alone with Lady Lavender.”
“Nurse Silver has a lot on her mind,” Mr. Clay says, “I think we are all a little on edge and suspicious due to the events that just took place.”
“I think Mrs. Peacock ought to redecorate the Billiard Room as well, seeing how Yvette hanged herself in there.” Miss Peach says
“I agree.” Mr. Clay says
“Look!” Miss Peach’s face beams up with excitement, “There’s Stuart!”
Sergeant Gray walks past Mr. Meadow-Brook’s car escorting a much older man on his arm. The man is dignified in appearance and walks with a silver topped cane. He is Lord Alfred Gray. Miss Peach rushes over to greet them, ignoring Mr. Meadow-Brook fumbling around in his car.
“You must be Lord Gray,” Miss Peach forces out a puckered formal accent and tries to curtsey. She looks and sounds ridiculous, “I am Melba Peach. It is a pleasure to meet you.”
“Stand up straight, girl.” Lord Gray stomps his cane into the gravel, “If you can’t curtsy properly, don’t try at all.”
Miss Peach stands up as Sergeant Gray walks to Miss Peach and kisses her hand, “Father, this is the girl I told you about.”
“Absolutely not!” Lord Gray shakes his head in dismay, “Come along Stuart, we need to further discuss your employment as town constable.”
“Father,” Sergeant Gray protests
“Come along Stuart.” Lord Gray begins making his way towards the front of Blackwell Grange.
“I’ll meet you at the Stables after the memorial.” Sergeant Gray says to Miss Peach, “We can ride horses through the woods. Just let me spend some time talking to my father.”
“Alright.” Miss Peach sighs, dropping her shoulders.
“Where did Nurse Silver and Lady Lavender go?” asks Mr. Clay as Sergeant Gray leaves Miss Peach to rejoin his father.
“Nurse Silver?” Miss Peach turns her attention to Mr. Clay, “I think they went into the house.”
“Where is the memorial being held?” asks Mr. Clay
“Mrs. White and Mr. Ash were setting up chairs in the Ballroom.” Miss Peach says, “They finally cleaned up that dusty old room. Grandfather requested it as soon as he joined the ranks of the living again.”
“Should we head inside?” asks Mr. Clay
“I suppose so,” Miss Peach says shrugging, she notices Mr. Meadow-Brook putting his briefcase in the backseat of his car, and then heading back towards the mansion, “I thought he said he was leaving to see his wife?”
In the Ballroom of Blackwell Grange, Reverend Green talks with Nurse Silver by the windows near the back of the room. Professor Plum and Mrs. Peacock come into the room looking uncomfortable and visibly distraught. Miss Scarlet lounges back lazily on a chaise lounge near the fireplace.
“Mrs. White is fixing appetizers.” Rusty says, coming up to Mrs. Peacock and Professor Plum.
“How thoughtful.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Have you seen Mr. Green? I was hoping to speak with him before his uncle began the sermon.”
“I’m sorry,” Rusty says, wiping the sweat from his brow, “I’ve been outside most of the morning.”
“It’s alright,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Have a seat, I’ll go make sure the others know we are starting soon.”
“There wasn’t a formal announcement made about the time.” Professor Plum says taking a seat next to Rusty
“It was a last minute thing!” Mrs. Peacock says, “Don’t be bitter.”
Mr. Clay and Miss Peach enter the Ballroom.
“Is Mr. Meadow-Brook in here?” asks Miss Peach
“Ah,” Reverend Green approaches Mr. Clay, “You must me Mrs. Peacock’s tennis coach.”
“Former,” Mr. Clay says, “It seems I’m going to be applying for a position at the Seafront Terrace. They have just recently opened a Tennis Court and need a trainer for the wealthy patrons.”
“This is the first I’m hearing about this!” Mrs. Peacock shouts from the doorway
Everyone turns their attention to them.
“I was going to tell everyone after the memorial.” Mr. Clay says, “I’m leaving shortly after the sermon. I have a wonderful job opportunity ahead of me.”
Nurse Silver smiles slightly from where she stands near the windows. Rusty and Professor Plum stand up from their seats.
“There’s no need to be cross.” Professor Plum says, “I say good luck to you in your endeavors!”
“Chandler,” Miss Scarlet sits up from the chaise lounge, “I… I hope you find what it is you are looking for.”
“Thank you, Vivienne,” Mr. Clay says. Their eyes lock for a moment. Nurse Silver’s lip stiffens across the room.
“Mr. Clay,” Nurse Silver speaks up, “Would you play something on the piano? I selected some of Hugh’s favorite pieces.”
“Is his former fiancé going to be in attendance?” asks Reverend Green, turning to Rusty and Professor Plum
“It’s a long story,” Professor Plum says, “But no. She took her son and left as soon as the police gave her permission to leave.”
“Where’s Lady Lavender?” Miss Peach walks over to Miss Scarlet
“I’m afraid I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting her.” Miss Scarlet says
Mrs. Peacock walks over to Mr. Clay, who is seating himself at the piano with Nurse Silver by his side.
“I know what you two are up to and you are not going to get away with it!” Mrs. Peacock says
“What?” Nurse Silver shrugs in clear frustration
“You two are trying to escape together!” Mrs. Peacock says, “You are planning a romantic rendezvous just to terrorize my stepdaughter!”
“We aren’t prisoners here.” Nurse Silver says, “We can leave whenever we want. Besides, haven’t we stayed long enough? How long were you expecting everyone to hang around here? I understand Colonel Mustard choosing to stay because he grew up here. Professor Plum and the other members of the family are just staying because it would be inconvenient to leave and then return in a few months when John turns eighteen. But now that Fivel and Miss Dove are gone, I am no longer needed.”
“What about Sir Benedict.” Mrs. Peacock says, “He still needs a live-in nurse.”
“He only needed a nurse because he was being poisoned by his ruthless son.” Nurse Silver says, “He is fine now.”
In the Study of Blackwell Grange, Colonel Mustard staggers into the room drunkenly. He stumbles over to the type writer in the corner of the room. He pulls up a chair from the wall with much effort and sits down in front of the type writer.
“Hugh told me…” he hiccups, “That I should write a memoir about my adventures!”
Colonel Mustard dizzily fumbles with the paper as he sets it in the typewriter.
“The memoirs of a prisoner of war, and a prisoner of the heart.” Colonel Mustard looks up at the liquor cabinet in the corner of the room, “I’ll dedicate this book to Hugh’s memory.” He smiles as he walks over to the liquor cabinet and helps himself to a bottle of vintage bourbon.
“Excellent taste in booze!” Colonel Mustard drinks directly from the bottle. The fresh sting of alcohol causes the man to sputter and cough violently. Once he recovers he plops himself down into the chair and begins typing.
Line by line, Colonel Mustard devotedly hammers away at the keys on the typewriter. The only sounds filling the Study are that of the noisy typewriter and the slow creaking of the secret passage door opening.
At the Wheel of Sekhmet’s Tears, Captain Brown looks ahead at the visible land, which draws nearer and nearer. Mr. Saffron comes up by Captain Brown’s side.
“I hope his Highness isn’t too terribly upset by this slight delay.” Captain Brown says
“It’s perfectly fine.” Mr. Saffron holds up his hand and smiles, “I am hoping that you will do me one small favor, however.”
“Aye,” Captain Brown says, “What can I do to be of service?”
“I want you to tear the sides of this wooden bitch into those sharp rocks.” Mr. Saffron says putting his hand on Captain Brown’s shoulder.
Captain Brown lets out a loud belly-laugh, “You must have had one too many bottles of rum!”
“Captain,” Mr. Saffron says, “It is in your sons best interest, and it is in the best interest of Prince Azure’s well-being.”
“You are being serious.” Captain Brown says pulling away, “Purposely wreck the ship? I don’t see the logic behind that. Crew could get hurt.”
“Crew will get hurt.” Mr. Saffron says
“People could die!” Captain Brown says
“People will die.” Mr. Saffron says without hesitation or even an inkling of remorse.
“No,” Captain Brown says, “I think the sea air has gotten to your head.”
“If Prince Azure realizes Brunette is your son, we will have his head on a spike.” Mr. Saffron says, “Do what I tell you, unless you want a simple request to turn into severe turmoil.”
Captain Brown stiffens his grip around a telescope, “You’re sure about that threat?”
“As sure as the loaded blunderbuss in my cabin.” Mr. Saffron says staring sternly into Captain Brown’s eyes.
“I know all about your secret blunderbuss.” Captain Brown laughs, “I took it out a few days ago and shot some gulls into the water. It’s dreadfully boring escorting you fine people from one harbor to another.”
“Crash it,” Mr. Saffron says, “Or I take Brunette’s head and a cut his throat till I reach his spine.”
“If Prince Azure were to drown in the event of this sinking, I would be executed.”
“Yes,” Mr. Saffron says nonchalantly, “That very well may be the case. But your son will escape unharmed. Think of the life he can fulfill.”
“As you wish,” Captain Brown bows his head, “To the rocks we go.”
In the Ballroom of Blackwell Grange, Mr. Clay plays soft piano music while Reverend Green sits with Mrs. Peacock and Lord Gray.
Sergeant Gray walks over to Miss Peach, “I’m so sorry.”
“Stuart, what’s wrong?” Miss Peach looks nervous
“My father is just hard to please.” Sergeant Gray says
“I suppose we did get off on a bad foot.” Miss Peach says taking a deep breath, “We’ll work things out.”
“It’ll take some time.” Sergeant Gray slips his arms around her waist, “I’m not going to give up on us.”
Miss Peach hugs him back and then releases, “I’m just a little worried that I might not fit in. It’s always been a struggle for me to fit in around Blackwell Grange. Your father is a High Lord. I’m not entirely sure what that means but it sounds important.”
“Maybe having him explain it could be a good way for you two to bond.” Sergeant Gray says, “He loves nothing more than bragging and carrying on about his own accomplishments, or the accomplishments of his parents before him.”
“Maybe I just need to give him reason to believe that you and I can accomplish great things together.” Miss Peach smiles
“I love your spirit!” Sergeant Gray says, “You’ll surely win him over.”
Miss Peach looks around the room and catches eyes with Miles Meadow-Brook, who stands near the open French doors.
“Excuse me,” Miss Peach says, “I need to speak with that lawyer before we start the memorial.”
Sergeant Gray nods and joins his father with Mrs. Peacock and Reverend Green. Miss Peach crosses the room to Miles Meadow-Brook.
“Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Miss Peach says approaching him, “What do you know about my grandmother?”
“Look,” Mr. Meadow-Brook glances around the Ballroom, “We can’t talk here. Don’t be obstinate.”
“Is something wrong?” asks Miss Peach
Mr. Meadow-Brook pulls out a pen and a notebook, “Meet me at my house tomorrow at 2.30. I’ll answer any question you have.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook, why is this so secretive?” asks Miss Peach
Mr. Meadow-Brook lowers his voice, “Trust me, you are going to want to come.”
“I just want to know what happened to my grandmother!” Miss Peach says
“It’s bigger than all of that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Please, let’s not discuss it anymore in Blackwell Grange.”
“I’m so sorry,” Mrs. White pushes through the curtains leading outside, “Didn’t see you two there.”
“Not a problem, Mrs. White.” Mr. Meadow-Brook changes his mood within the second of realizing Mrs. White is within earshot.
“Take your seats, we will be beginning the memorial very soon.” Mrs. White says
In the Study, Colonel Mustard pulls out the paper that was in the type writer and begins to read what he has written. He smiles and takes a drink directly from the bottle, oblivious to the figure that has emerged from the secret passageway, holding a short, sharp blade. Colonel Mustard sets the piece of paper on top of the other papers he has finished writing. As he does he feels the cold bite of the blade against his throat. He lets his hands fall to his side, knocking over the bottle.
“What… what do you want?” asks Colonel Mustard, with a quivering lip
He glances up and meets eyes with the hand holding the dagger. He first notices her long purple fingernails, then almost immediately picks up on the exotic aroma. He feels the grip loosen.
“It’s a light poison.” Lady Lavender reveals a perfume bottle in her other hand, gripping tightly on the dagger in the other. Colonel Mustard coughs profusely on the floor.
“What have you done to me?” he asks, loosening his collar
“Like I said,” Lady Lavender opens the desk drawers, “It’s a light poison. You’ll be fine. I just need you to be immobile while I make a deal with you.”
Lady Lavender crosses the room, stepping around Colonel Mustard, and picks up the papers the he had just finished typing.
“Jesus,” Lady Lavender scans quickly through, “This is scandal. You just trash talked a lot of people here.”
“What are you doing here?” Colonel Mustard begins to get to his knees with the help of the chair.
“Not so soon,” Lady Lavender sprays her perfume in front of his face and calmly walks across the room with the papers. Colonel Mustard falls weak to the floor.
“To answer your question,” Lady Lavender says, “I’m here for answers.”
In the Lounge, after the Memorial, Mrs. Peacock pours herself a glass of water from the decanter. She takes a seat on the sofa and takes off her high heels. She puts her feet up on the coffee table as Mrs. White enters the room, quite out of breath.
“I just finished straightening out the Ballroom and making sure the guests are taken care of.” Mrs. White pants
“Have you been running?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“I had to get to you as soon as I could.”
“Why?” Mrs. Peacock sense the distress, “What’s wrong?”
“It’s Miss Peach,” Mrs. White says, “She knows.”
“She knows?”
“She doesn’t know yet,” Mrs. White says, “But Mr. Meadow-Brook has planned a meeting with her tomorrow afternoon at 2.30.”
Mrs. Peacock takes her feet from the coffee table and sits up, “No, Blanche, where is Mr. Meadow-Brook?”
“He’s gone home already.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Dammit! It’s hard enough that I’m trying to keep Nurse Silver here away from Mr. Clay, now I have to keep Miss Peach from Mr. Meadow-Brook. When is it going to end.”
“If Miss Peach finds out she is the rightful heir to Blackwell Grange, it’s only a matter of time before the vultures come down and prey on that delicate little girl.” Mrs. White says, “No wonder Madame Rose left.”
Mrs. Peacock stares out the windows towards the front lawn where she sees Miss Peach, Mr. Clay, Sergeant Gray, and Reverend Green all strolling around the Garden. Reverend Green appears to be reading Scripture to the group.
“I thought Miles was on my side.” Mrs. Peacock says
“He’s a lawyer,” Mrs. White says, “He’s on the side he feels is rightfully entitled.”
“I think I’m going to be sick.” Mrs. Peacock says, “She can’t see him tomorrow!”
“What do you suppose we do?” asks Mrs. White
Mrs. Peacock takes her shoes and stands up, “I need to talk to the professor.”
“Why?” Mrs. White asks
“I need a nonlethal poison that can immobilize someone for up to 24 hours.” Mrs. Peacock says
“How ghastly!” Mrs. White gasps
“Nothing dangerous or long-lasting.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I just need to have Miss Peach puking and too sick to go anywhere tomorrow. I’ll settle things with Mr. Meadow-Brook. Get me Mr. Slate-Grey’s contact information. It looks like I’m going to be withdrawing a sizable sum.”
To Be Continued…
“Nothing.” Monsieur Brunette wipes his forehead, “Crazy, old drunk! There isn’t a trace of anything.”
Defeated, Monsieur Brunette stands up and begins to straighten out his humble room. Upon setting the chair upright he notices a loose, wooden clanking sound. Determined, he begins to examine the chair. Nothing budges or makes the loose, wooden clanking noise again. He traces his fingers along the wooden frame and even tests the tightness/looseness of the bolts holding the chair together.
“I heard something before!” Monsieur Brunette says out loud, with clear frustration, “I know my mind isn’t playing tricks on me.”
Monsieur Brunette takes the knife and fully tears open the back of the chair, he begins digging through cloth, cotton, wood, and springs for a trace of anything that may have been left by the previous occupant.
“This is ridiculous!” he sits down in the chair with frustration. As soon as he makes contact with the chair he hears the loose, wood clanking noise. His eyes spring open – fully alert! He gets off the chair and soon finds that the source of the noise is the floorboard, not the chair. Monsieur Brunette stares at the loose floorboard for a moment and then pushes the chair aside. Carefully, he traces the edge of the floorboard with his fingers. It is clear by the splintering of the wood that someone had opened this board recently. He uses his knife to lift up the board on one side. He pulls it up and sees a folded piece of paper. With trembling hands, he retrieves the paper from the dark, dusty space between the decks.
Several decks above him, Prince Azure strolls outside, taking deep breaths of the ocean air. Mr. Saffron walks several steps behind him.
“Why is the north star there?” Prince Azure grabs a telescope from the nearest crew member, “Who ordered this ship to be sent south?”
Captain Brown comes down from the wheel, “That would be my fault.”
“Robert, turn this ship around.” Prince Azure says tossing the telescope to Captain Brown, “We need to get to Plymouth before nightfall!”
“There is a storm,” Captain Brown lies, “We need to avoid it all together. Perhaps we should dock somewhere tonight. I’m sure some of us would rather wait out the storm in a nice warm tavern.”
“The skies are crystal clear.” Prince Azure says
“I can feel it in my bones.” Captain Brown says, “But if you want to risk the safety of the crew…”
“Dock us.” Prince Azure rubs his temples in frustration, “If the storm isn’t here by sundown, we ride full speed in the night.”
Captain Brown smirks, “Thank you, your highness. I’m sure everyone will be grateful.”
Prince Azure heads back into the ship with Mr. Saffron.
“Head north, we’ll stop at the nearest port-town.” Captain Brown announces
At Blackwell Grange, in the Conservatory, Mrs. Peacock gently mists the plants in the window boxes with a small spray bottle filled with water. Miss Scarlet enters and dramatically throws herself down onto the wicker sofa. She lets out a long moan.
“What?” asks Mrs. Peacock, feigning interest in her stepdaughter’s daily struggles.
“I can’t do it!” Miss Scarlet says digging her nails into the arm of the sofa, “He knows I’m just trying to seduce him as a backup plan.”
“I wasn’t counting on him being smart. Normally most men take one look at your chest and they can’t remember their first name. Don’t worry, darling.” Mrs. Peacock kisses her stepdaughter on the forehead; the gesture being more symbolic than out of love, “I’ve got everything taken care of.”
“The money?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Don’t worry your pretty little head about it.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Just get John to fall in love with you.”
“Patricia, please…” Miss Scarlet grabs her hand, “I can’t do it. I just lost Chandler! Don’t make me use my body for you. Not again.”
“Vivienne, it’s different this time.” Mrs. Peacock pulls her hand away, “This time you are the one benefitting. You are an adult and you are in charge of your own money.”
“I don’t want to be with John, I want Chandler back.” Miss Scarlet says
“Chandler’s never coming back.” Mrs. Peacock says, “He is with that slutty nurse.”
Miss Scarlet cringes and grinds her teeth, “I wish that bitch’s neck would have snapped when she fell from the balcony.”
“That’s it,” Mrs. Peacock encourages, “Fuel your anger into your lust for the Black-Boddy fortune.”
Miss Scarlet sits up, “Did you truly love my father? Or was he just another man with money?”
Mrs. Peacock is silent for a moment.
“You can tell me the truth.” Miss Scarlet says, “There’s no point in protecting anyone’s feelings.”
“I’m trying to remember.” Mrs. Peacock stares off out the windows, “I know I was still very in love with Hugh when I met your father. But I do believe there was a time when we were truly in love.”
“What about Ernest?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I was a wreck after your father’s death.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Ernest was a mistake. We both know that.”
Miss Scarlet is silent. She slowly stands up and walks to the Hall door.
“I’m sorry.” Mrs. Peacock says
“It’s easy money,” Miss Scarlet closes her eyes, “Spreading your legs for the rich men. Isn’t that what you always told me? Easy money? You scarred me.”
Miss Scarlet enters the Hall and slams the Conservatory door. Mrs. Peacock sighs and opens the door leading outside. She lets the fresh air greet her as her eyes catch Professor Plum, Nurse Silver, and Mr. Clay in the Gazebo.
“Ah,” Professor Plum says, “The lady of the manor.”
Mrs. Peacock smiles, unsure if there was intended sarcasm or if the comment just came out wrong.
“Has the priest arrived yet?” asks Nurse Silver
“Reverend Green is in the Library with his nephew,” Mrs. Peacock says
“It’s so hard to imagine Mr. Green having an uncle in the clergy.” Professor Plum says
“I think what Professor Plum is trying to say,” Mr. Clay interrupts, “It’s no big secret that Mr. Green is involved in some dirty work.”
“I suppose we all have our sorted pasts.” Mrs. Peacock says with a shrug
Nurse Silver is silent, “Who is that woman?” she points out the garden where Miss Peach stands talking to a tall oriental woman in a purple kimono.
“That’s Lady Lavender.” Mrs. Peacock says, “She is the young widow of the late Lord Lawrence Lavender. The Lavender’s and the Boddy’s are blood relatives. I believe cousins.”
“Oh, so she married into the wealthy family?” Nurse Silver asks
“That seems to be a signature trait around here.” Professor Plum says half to himself
“Watch yourself,” Nurse Silver stands up and smoothes out her dress, “If you’ll forgive me, I am rather intrigued by this foreign beauty. I must meet her before I leave.”
Nurse Silver and Mr. Clay leave Professor Plum and Mrs. Peacock alone in the Gazebo. Mrs. Peacock sits on the steps next to a funny looking, concrete Lawn Gnome.
“Look at this whimsical little fellow!” Mrs. Peacock picks him up
“I hope you’ll forgive the comment I made.” Professor Plum says
“No need to apologize.” Mrs. Peacock says setting the Gnome back down, “I’ve come to embrace what I am. People call me
‘The Black Widow’. They think it’s their own private joke and act like I don’t know… they act like I can’t hear them.”
“I’m sorry,” Professor Plum offers a hand to her
She takes it and pulls herself up from where she is sitting, “I used to run a brothel when I was in my early 20s. It was before I was married of course. I used to train teenage girls how to really make a man happy. I taught them to use what they have as a lure, as a bargaining piece, and as a weapon. I… I still know some women still in the business. Yvette was nothing more than a Thursday night delight before she was hired on as a maid.”
“My god,” Professor Plum sits down on a rocking chair, “I need a minute.”
“I know you cared for Yvette,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I was happy to see her free from the burden. I’m just sorry she ended up here… with these people.”
“Vivienne,” Professor Plum says, barely audible
“What?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“Did you teach Vivienne the same things?” Professor Plum asks
Mrs. Peacock looks out at the calm lake, “She turned out fine. I kept her more dignified. I made sure she would be treated like a lady. I only provided the finest and richest men for my little Vivienne.”
“At what age?” asks Professor Plum
“It wasn’t just about sex.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It was about the lure, the seduction, the desire that men get when a woman puts on a show. It makes them spend like fools.”
“You are wicked.” Professor Plum stands up, “I don’t know if I can stay in the same house as you.”
“Well, darling,” Mrs. Peacock shrugs, “I’m not leaving until John Boddy turns eighteen this winter. Surely you can put up with me for a few months.”
“I could live with the husband murdering,” Professor Plum says descending the Gazebo steps, “But the child soliciting is where I draw the line.”
“Isn’t it true you murdered your own wife after she caught you taking advantage of a patient?” Mrs. Peacock crosses her arms, “A fragile young girl? She was probably no older than Vivienne was when she had her first man.”
Those words strike Professor Plum with a deadening crush.
“You said your wife died by an accident.” Mrs. Peacock says, “You never talk about her. You never talk about what happened. It’s almost as if you are too scared that the whole situation is still very fragile and easy to see through.”
“So now what?” Professor Plum says, “Are you going to blackmail me? We have dirt on each other. We will both be hanged for our crimes. Is that what you would like?”
“I’d like you to know that you are safe here at Blackwell Grange.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’m not going to tell anyone what you did, and in return, you are not going to judge me for what I did.”
“It’s not as simple as that.” Professor Plum says
“Try talking to Reverend Green about forgiveness.” Mrs. Peacock says brushing past him and towards the Conservatory, “It could do you a lot of good to forgive and move forward. You are so uptight and quiet it’s surprising how you managed to get a wife in the first place.”
Mrs. Peacock leaves Professor Plum alone with tight fists and a clenched jaw.
In the Garden, Miss Peach and Lady Lavender talk amongst themselves while Mr. Meadow-Brook sits on a stone bench surrounded by roses.
“It’s a shame your mother will not be attending her own brother’s memorial.” Lady Lavender puts her hand on Miss Peach’s shoulder.
“I don’t know my mother very well,” Miss Peach says, “But she takes this psychic stuff awful serious.”
“How exciting!” Lady Lavender says, “I happen to know a little bit about fortune telling myself.”
“Oh that’s fun!” Miss Peach says, “What do you see ahead for me and my dashing gentleman?”
“Ladies,” Mr. Clay greets as he and Nurse Silver join them
“Goodness,” Miss Peach puts her hand over her heart, “Ya’ll scared me half to death.”
“I’m afraid we haven’t had the pleasure of meeting,” Nurse Silver extends her hand to Lady Lavender
“Mai-Ling,” Lady Lavender says
“Constantine,” Nurse Silver replies, “I was so sorry to hear about your husband’s death. Come walk with me, I have so many things to tell you.”
“But we’ve just met.” Lady Lavender says rather taken back
“Oh, but I’m leaving soon,” Nurse Silver begs, “I have a family emergency to tend to and I was to be cordial to our new guest.”
Nurse Silver and Lady Lavender walk off together. Miss Peach turns to Mr. Clay who is walking over to Mr. Meadow-Brook. She meets him over by Mr. Meadow-Brook. Mr. Meadow-Brook closes his briefcase upon the arrival of the two.
“You must be the lawyer we’ve been hearing about.” Miss Peach smiles, “I’m Melba, Rose’s daughter.”
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook thinks for a moment, “You grew up in America?”
“Yes,” Miss Peach chuckles, “The family tree is a bit confusing, I know. What makes it confusing is why there is no Benedict Black the Fifth.”
“I’ve often wondered that.” Mr. Clay says
“My grandfather is Benedict Black IV, why didn’t he name his first born son Benedict to carry on the tradition?” Miss Peach chuckles, “I’ll have to ask grandfather about that some time.”
“It’s best if you didn’t.” Mr. Meadow-Brook raises his hand, “Hugh Black was not Benedict and Beatrice’s eldest son. There was in fact a Benedict Black V, but he died as an infant. It was before Rose was born. It was around the time… well, you know.”
“No,” Miss Peach says, visibly annoyed by Mr. Meadow-Brook’s baiting
“You do know about your grandmother’s history?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“What happened with my grandmother?” Miss Peach puts her hands on her hips, “What has everyone been keeping from me? Is there something I need to know?”
Mr. Meadow-Brook’s hands become shaky. He looks up at the tall gothic structure before him. The roof of Blackwell Grange is lined with gargoyles, giving it an ominous, foreboding atmosphere when glanced at from center angles. For Miles Meadow-Brook, this was one of those angles.
“I wish I could chat more,” Mr. Meadow-Brook gathers his things, “But I need to be getting home to my wife. I have the rest of the day off and she and I were planning on spending the day together.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook walks quickly passed the Garden’s hedges and towards the Gate House where his car is parked.
“That was odd.” Mr. Clay says laughing at Mr. Meadow-Brook’s skittish behavior
“Ya know what else is odd?” Miss Peach takes a piece of chewing gum from her purse and puts it in her mouth, “Nurse Silver sure wanted to get herself alone with Lady Lavender.”
“Nurse Silver has a lot on her mind,” Mr. Clay says, “I think we are all a little on edge and suspicious due to the events that just took place.”
“I think Mrs. Peacock ought to redecorate the Billiard Room as well, seeing how Yvette hanged herself in there.” Miss Peach says
“I agree.” Mr. Clay says
“Look!” Miss Peach’s face beams up with excitement, “There’s Stuart!”
Sergeant Gray walks past Mr. Meadow-Brook’s car escorting a much older man on his arm. The man is dignified in appearance and walks with a silver topped cane. He is Lord Alfred Gray. Miss Peach rushes over to greet them, ignoring Mr. Meadow-Brook fumbling around in his car.
“You must be Lord Gray,” Miss Peach forces out a puckered formal accent and tries to curtsey. She looks and sounds ridiculous, “I am Melba Peach. It is a pleasure to meet you.”
“Stand up straight, girl.” Lord Gray stomps his cane into the gravel, “If you can’t curtsy properly, don’t try at all.”
Miss Peach stands up as Sergeant Gray walks to Miss Peach and kisses her hand, “Father, this is the girl I told you about.”
“Absolutely not!” Lord Gray shakes his head in dismay, “Come along Stuart, we need to further discuss your employment as town constable.”
“Father,” Sergeant Gray protests
“Come along Stuart.” Lord Gray begins making his way towards the front of Blackwell Grange.
“I’ll meet you at the Stables after the memorial.” Sergeant Gray says to Miss Peach, “We can ride horses through the woods. Just let me spend some time talking to my father.”
“Alright.” Miss Peach sighs, dropping her shoulders.
“Where did Nurse Silver and Lady Lavender go?” asks Mr. Clay as Sergeant Gray leaves Miss Peach to rejoin his father.
“Nurse Silver?” Miss Peach turns her attention to Mr. Clay, “I think they went into the house.”
“Where is the memorial being held?” asks Mr. Clay
“Mrs. White and Mr. Ash were setting up chairs in the Ballroom.” Miss Peach says, “They finally cleaned up that dusty old room. Grandfather requested it as soon as he joined the ranks of the living again.”
“Should we head inside?” asks Mr. Clay
“I suppose so,” Miss Peach says shrugging, she notices Mr. Meadow-Brook putting his briefcase in the backseat of his car, and then heading back towards the mansion, “I thought he said he was leaving to see his wife?”
In the Ballroom of Blackwell Grange, Reverend Green talks with Nurse Silver by the windows near the back of the room. Professor Plum and Mrs. Peacock come into the room looking uncomfortable and visibly distraught. Miss Scarlet lounges back lazily on a chaise lounge near the fireplace.
“Mrs. White is fixing appetizers.” Rusty says, coming up to Mrs. Peacock and Professor Plum.
“How thoughtful.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Have you seen Mr. Green? I was hoping to speak with him before his uncle began the sermon.”
“I’m sorry,” Rusty says, wiping the sweat from his brow, “I’ve been outside most of the morning.”
“It’s alright,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Have a seat, I’ll go make sure the others know we are starting soon.”
“There wasn’t a formal announcement made about the time.” Professor Plum says taking a seat next to Rusty
“It was a last minute thing!” Mrs. Peacock says, “Don’t be bitter.”
Mr. Clay and Miss Peach enter the Ballroom.
“Is Mr. Meadow-Brook in here?” asks Miss Peach
“Ah,” Reverend Green approaches Mr. Clay, “You must me Mrs. Peacock’s tennis coach.”
“Former,” Mr. Clay says, “It seems I’m going to be applying for a position at the Seafront Terrace. They have just recently opened a Tennis Court and need a trainer for the wealthy patrons.”
“This is the first I’m hearing about this!” Mrs. Peacock shouts from the doorway
Everyone turns their attention to them.
“I was going to tell everyone after the memorial.” Mr. Clay says, “I’m leaving shortly after the sermon. I have a wonderful job opportunity ahead of me.”
Nurse Silver smiles slightly from where she stands near the windows. Rusty and Professor Plum stand up from their seats.
“There’s no need to be cross.” Professor Plum says, “I say good luck to you in your endeavors!”
“Chandler,” Miss Scarlet sits up from the chaise lounge, “I… I hope you find what it is you are looking for.”
“Thank you, Vivienne,” Mr. Clay says. Their eyes lock for a moment. Nurse Silver’s lip stiffens across the room.
“Mr. Clay,” Nurse Silver speaks up, “Would you play something on the piano? I selected some of Hugh’s favorite pieces.”
“Is his former fiancé going to be in attendance?” asks Reverend Green, turning to Rusty and Professor Plum
“It’s a long story,” Professor Plum says, “But no. She took her son and left as soon as the police gave her permission to leave.”
“Where’s Lady Lavender?” Miss Peach walks over to Miss Scarlet
“I’m afraid I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting her.” Miss Scarlet says
Mrs. Peacock walks over to Mr. Clay, who is seating himself at the piano with Nurse Silver by his side.
“I know what you two are up to and you are not going to get away with it!” Mrs. Peacock says
“What?” Nurse Silver shrugs in clear frustration
“You two are trying to escape together!” Mrs. Peacock says, “You are planning a romantic rendezvous just to terrorize my stepdaughter!”
“We aren’t prisoners here.” Nurse Silver says, “We can leave whenever we want. Besides, haven’t we stayed long enough? How long were you expecting everyone to hang around here? I understand Colonel Mustard choosing to stay because he grew up here. Professor Plum and the other members of the family are just staying because it would be inconvenient to leave and then return in a few months when John turns eighteen. But now that Fivel and Miss Dove are gone, I am no longer needed.”
“What about Sir Benedict.” Mrs. Peacock says, “He still needs a live-in nurse.”
“He only needed a nurse because he was being poisoned by his ruthless son.” Nurse Silver says, “He is fine now.”
In the Study of Blackwell Grange, Colonel Mustard staggers into the room drunkenly. He stumbles over to the type writer in the corner of the room. He pulls up a chair from the wall with much effort and sits down in front of the type writer.
“Hugh told me…” he hiccups, “That I should write a memoir about my adventures!”
Colonel Mustard dizzily fumbles with the paper as he sets it in the typewriter.
“The memoirs of a prisoner of war, and a prisoner of the heart.” Colonel Mustard looks up at the liquor cabinet in the corner of the room, “I’ll dedicate this book to Hugh’s memory.” He smiles as he walks over to the liquor cabinet and helps himself to a bottle of vintage bourbon.
“Excellent taste in booze!” Colonel Mustard drinks directly from the bottle. The fresh sting of alcohol causes the man to sputter and cough violently. Once he recovers he plops himself down into the chair and begins typing.
Line by line, Colonel Mustard devotedly hammers away at the keys on the typewriter. The only sounds filling the Study are that of the noisy typewriter and the slow creaking of the secret passage door opening.
At the Wheel of Sekhmet’s Tears, Captain Brown looks ahead at the visible land, which draws nearer and nearer. Mr. Saffron comes up by Captain Brown’s side.
“I hope his Highness isn’t too terribly upset by this slight delay.” Captain Brown says
“It’s perfectly fine.” Mr. Saffron holds up his hand and smiles, “I am hoping that you will do me one small favor, however.”
“Aye,” Captain Brown says, “What can I do to be of service?”
“I want you to tear the sides of this wooden bitch into those sharp rocks.” Mr. Saffron says putting his hand on Captain Brown’s shoulder.
Captain Brown lets out a loud belly-laugh, “You must have had one too many bottles of rum!”
“Captain,” Mr. Saffron says, “It is in your sons best interest, and it is in the best interest of Prince Azure’s well-being.”
“You are being serious.” Captain Brown says pulling away, “Purposely wreck the ship? I don’t see the logic behind that. Crew could get hurt.”
“Crew will get hurt.” Mr. Saffron says
“People could die!” Captain Brown says
“People will die.” Mr. Saffron says without hesitation or even an inkling of remorse.
“No,” Captain Brown says, “I think the sea air has gotten to your head.”
“If Prince Azure realizes Brunette is your son, we will have his head on a spike.” Mr. Saffron says, “Do what I tell you, unless you want a simple request to turn into severe turmoil.”
Captain Brown stiffens his grip around a telescope, “You’re sure about that threat?”
“As sure as the loaded blunderbuss in my cabin.” Mr. Saffron says staring sternly into Captain Brown’s eyes.
“I know all about your secret blunderbuss.” Captain Brown laughs, “I took it out a few days ago and shot some gulls into the water. It’s dreadfully boring escorting you fine people from one harbor to another.”
“Crash it,” Mr. Saffron says, “Or I take Brunette’s head and a cut his throat till I reach his spine.”
“If Prince Azure were to drown in the event of this sinking, I would be executed.”
“Yes,” Mr. Saffron says nonchalantly, “That very well may be the case. But your son will escape unharmed. Think of the life he can fulfill.”
“As you wish,” Captain Brown bows his head, “To the rocks we go.”
In the Ballroom of Blackwell Grange, Mr. Clay plays soft piano music while Reverend Green sits with Mrs. Peacock and Lord Gray.
Sergeant Gray walks over to Miss Peach, “I’m so sorry.”
“Stuart, what’s wrong?” Miss Peach looks nervous
“My father is just hard to please.” Sergeant Gray says
“I suppose we did get off on a bad foot.” Miss Peach says taking a deep breath, “We’ll work things out.”
“It’ll take some time.” Sergeant Gray slips his arms around her waist, “I’m not going to give up on us.”
Miss Peach hugs him back and then releases, “I’m just a little worried that I might not fit in. It’s always been a struggle for me to fit in around Blackwell Grange. Your father is a High Lord. I’m not entirely sure what that means but it sounds important.”
“Maybe having him explain it could be a good way for you two to bond.” Sergeant Gray says, “He loves nothing more than bragging and carrying on about his own accomplishments, or the accomplishments of his parents before him.”
“Maybe I just need to give him reason to believe that you and I can accomplish great things together.” Miss Peach smiles
“I love your spirit!” Sergeant Gray says, “You’ll surely win him over.”
Miss Peach looks around the room and catches eyes with Miles Meadow-Brook, who stands near the open French doors.
“Excuse me,” Miss Peach says, “I need to speak with that lawyer before we start the memorial.”
Sergeant Gray nods and joins his father with Mrs. Peacock and Reverend Green. Miss Peach crosses the room to Miles Meadow-Brook.
“Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Miss Peach says approaching him, “What do you know about my grandmother?”
“Look,” Mr. Meadow-Brook glances around the Ballroom, “We can’t talk here. Don’t be obstinate.”
“Is something wrong?” asks Miss Peach
Mr. Meadow-Brook pulls out a pen and a notebook, “Meet me at my house tomorrow at 2.30. I’ll answer any question you have.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook, why is this so secretive?” asks Miss Peach
Mr. Meadow-Brook lowers his voice, “Trust me, you are going to want to come.”
“I just want to know what happened to my grandmother!” Miss Peach says
“It’s bigger than all of that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Please, let’s not discuss it anymore in Blackwell Grange.”
“I’m so sorry,” Mrs. White pushes through the curtains leading outside, “Didn’t see you two there.”
“Not a problem, Mrs. White.” Mr. Meadow-Brook changes his mood within the second of realizing Mrs. White is within earshot.
“Take your seats, we will be beginning the memorial very soon.” Mrs. White says
In the Study, Colonel Mustard pulls out the paper that was in the type writer and begins to read what he has written. He smiles and takes a drink directly from the bottle, oblivious to the figure that has emerged from the secret passageway, holding a short, sharp blade. Colonel Mustard sets the piece of paper on top of the other papers he has finished writing. As he does he feels the cold bite of the blade against his throat. He lets his hands fall to his side, knocking over the bottle.
“What… what do you want?” asks Colonel Mustard, with a quivering lip
He glances up and meets eyes with the hand holding the dagger. He first notices her long purple fingernails, then almost immediately picks up on the exotic aroma. He feels the grip loosen.
“It’s a light poison.” Lady Lavender reveals a perfume bottle in her other hand, gripping tightly on the dagger in the other. Colonel Mustard coughs profusely on the floor.
“What have you done to me?” he asks, loosening his collar
“Like I said,” Lady Lavender opens the desk drawers, “It’s a light poison. You’ll be fine. I just need you to be immobile while I make a deal with you.”
Lady Lavender crosses the room, stepping around Colonel Mustard, and picks up the papers the he had just finished typing.
“Jesus,” Lady Lavender scans quickly through, “This is scandal. You just trash talked a lot of people here.”
“What are you doing here?” Colonel Mustard begins to get to his knees with the help of the chair.
“Not so soon,” Lady Lavender sprays her perfume in front of his face and calmly walks across the room with the papers. Colonel Mustard falls weak to the floor.
“To answer your question,” Lady Lavender says, “I’m here for answers.”
In the Lounge, after the Memorial, Mrs. Peacock pours herself a glass of water from the decanter. She takes a seat on the sofa and takes off her high heels. She puts her feet up on the coffee table as Mrs. White enters the room, quite out of breath.
“I just finished straightening out the Ballroom and making sure the guests are taken care of.” Mrs. White pants
“Have you been running?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“I had to get to you as soon as I could.”
“Why?” Mrs. Peacock sense the distress, “What’s wrong?”
“It’s Miss Peach,” Mrs. White says, “She knows.”
“She knows?”
“She doesn’t know yet,” Mrs. White says, “But Mr. Meadow-Brook has planned a meeting with her tomorrow afternoon at 2.30.”
Mrs. Peacock takes her feet from the coffee table and sits up, “No, Blanche, where is Mr. Meadow-Brook?”
“He’s gone home already.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Dammit! It’s hard enough that I’m trying to keep Nurse Silver here away from Mr. Clay, now I have to keep Miss Peach from Mr. Meadow-Brook. When is it going to end.”
“If Miss Peach finds out she is the rightful heir to Blackwell Grange, it’s only a matter of time before the vultures come down and prey on that delicate little girl.” Mrs. White says, “No wonder Madame Rose left.”
Mrs. Peacock stares out the windows towards the front lawn where she sees Miss Peach, Mr. Clay, Sergeant Gray, and Reverend Green all strolling around the Garden. Reverend Green appears to be reading Scripture to the group.
“I thought Miles was on my side.” Mrs. Peacock says
“He’s a lawyer,” Mrs. White says, “He’s on the side he feels is rightfully entitled.”
“I think I’m going to be sick.” Mrs. Peacock says, “She can’t see him tomorrow!”
“What do you suppose we do?” asks Mrs. White
Mrs. Peacock takes her shoes and stands up, “I need to talk to the professor.”
“Why?” Mrs. White asks
“I need a nonlethal poison that can immobilize someone for up to 24 hours.” Mrs. Peacock says
“How ghastly!” Mrs. White gasps
“Nothing dangerous or long-lasting.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I just need to have Miss Peach puking and too sick to go anywhere tomorrow. I’ll settle things with Mr. Meadow-Brook. Get me Mr. Slate-Grey’s contact information. It looks like I’m going to be withdrawing a sizable sum.”
To Be Continued…