Episode 36 – “Let the Memory Live Again”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Mr. Thallo Green decides it would be best if he die on his own terms, rather than allow the assassination on his life to unfold. He is preparing to hang himself when Sylvia calls stating that Mrs. Peacock left a note detailing a tradeoff for Scott’s freedom, in return for Bradford’s incarceration for Mrs. Peacock’s own crimes. Mr. Green is frantic, realizing he gave his life for the information to be handed over to Sylvia. He informs Sylvia that Scott is in the attic but to wait until he comes to Tudor Close before going up there. Mr. Green is delayed by Bradford Black who holds Mr. Green gunpoint holding the papers which he removed from the envelope addressed to Sylvia. Lady Oakwood reveals to Percival that he was stolen from the orphanage in a way to convince Lord Oakwood’s father that the family name will be carried on. Percival is enraged to find out that he was merely a bargaining chip and leaves after confronting his mother about the murders she committed to cover up her fraud. In the Attic, Mrs. Peacock explains to Scott that this evening should go without a hitch. When Scott brings up Prince Azure, Mrs. Peacock tells him that she doubts Bradford even has connections to an African Royal. Meanwhile, in Africa, Prince Azure hears news that Scott won’t be sold to him and decides to talk to Bradford face to face…
-Friday, April 22, 1949 –
-Late Afternoon-
Mrs. Blanche White starts the record player as the music fills the Lounge. She begins to dance in a somewhat cheery way. Mr. Ash enters the Lounge to see Mrs. White dancing awkwardly.
“I take it you found all of Hugh’s favorite records?” asks Mr. Ash raising an eyebrow
“Dance with me, Reggie,” Mrs. White holds open her arms for Mr. Ash
“Under the circumstances,” Mr. Ash stops the record player, “I think the records were merely meant to be played softly in honor of Hugh. They will not be used to waltz along with”
“We can’t always be grouchy and depressed,” Mrs. White says, “The funeral is over after all.”
“Still,” Mr. Ash says, “The master of the house was murdered, his killer is still on the loose, and he was laid to rest today.”
“Perhaps I did go a bit overboard.” Mrs. White says, “Have you seen Jet?”
“Not since we got back from the funeral.” Mr. Ash says, “He went out to the Stables.”
“Well heavens,” Mrs. White looks out the large windows of the Lounge, “It’s still raining; he’ll catch cold.”
In the Study of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black paces back and forth. On the desk is a duffle bag full of money. She glances next to the bag at the German War Pistol, which she found several days earlier. Mr. Ash enters the Study.
“We are just about ready for the guests.” Mr. Ash says
“Can you take this bag out to the Boat House?” Mrs. Black points to the bag.
“Is this for Mrs. Peacock?” asks Mr. Ash
“I have a feeling it might come in handy during the rendezvous.” Mrs. Black says
From the Secret Passage door a figure watches intently while holding onto a sawn-off shotgun.
“I’m not sure if taunting a killer with a bag of money is a good idea.” Mr. Ash says
“Mr. Ash,” Mrs. Black closes her eyes holding back the tears, “I want my son back. When I want your opinion I’ll ask.”
Mr. Ash nods stiffly as he zips up the duffle bag and exits the Study. Sylvia waits a few moments and then takes the German war pistol and exits the Study, heading for the staircase.
In the Attic of Tudor Close, Sergei Gold slowly opens his eyes and moves his hand to his side and touches the cloth that is preventing him from bleeding out. The door to the attic opens up as Sylvia Black rushes in, in a hurry. Sylvia Black grabs Sergei Gold by the collar of his shirt.
“Where are they?” Sylvia asks
“Please, I need help.” Sergei says, “I don’t know where they are!”
Mrs. Black pulls out the German war pistol, “I am not playing games here. Tell me where my son is!”
“Outside.” Sergei says, “She took him outside.”
“The Boat House?” asks Mrs. Black
“Maybe.” Sergei says
Mrs. Black rushes to the stairs
“Don’t leave me here.” Sergei says
“After everything you and Bradford have put me through, why should I care.” Mrs. Black says heartlessly as she abandons him in the attic.
In his bedroom across the street, Mr. Green is still at gunpoint. Sir Bradford Black walks circles around him, never letting the revolver out of the fire line of Mr. Green’s head.
“Bradford,” Mr. Green says, “You are an incredibly lucky man. You’ve survived people’s plots against your life, a car crash, and being hostage in a crawlspace. I don’t know how much longer you are going to stay lucky. If you kill me people will notice that I am missing. They will pinpoint you to me.”
“I will agree with you that I have been lucky for the most part,” Bradford says, “But don’t think for a second that I was stupid enough to drive off that cliff.”
-FLASHBACK- TWO DAYS AGO-
Outside of an old run down ware house in Hampshire, Sir Bradford Black looks up at it in disgust as he readjusts his gold-buttoned coat. Mr. Dante Egret places a gun in his belt as he approaches the unsuspected older man.
“Sir Bradford,” Dante puts on a charming smile, “I’m Dante Egret. I’m here to show you this warehouse.”
“It’s rather threadbare.” Sir Bradford mumbles half to himself
“I assure you this is a good investment.” Dante says trying to hurry Bradford along, “A Russian man, Gaspodin Gold, said that it may solve the tension between the two of you.”
“Sergei sent you?” Sir Bradford Black asks
“I believe the name was Yuri.” Dante says motioning for them to enter the warehouse
“Damn,” Sir Bradford Black lowers his voice, “Mr. Egret, thank you for your time but I’m going to have to take a pass on this investment offer.”
“Sir, you must reconsider.” Dante says in sudden panic
“Thank you, no.” Sir Bradford Black says getting back into his black car.
Dante pulls out his gun and shoots the front right tire. Sir Bradford Black panics as he sees him do this and quickly turns on the engine and drives away, having a bit of trouble controlling the car. Dante gets in his car and follows him banging into his bumper every few seconds. He slams into the back of Bradford’s car hard and long, sending the car off the gravel road that leads to Tudor Close. The car rolls into the same ravine that Jessica fell into a several days prior. Dante backs up and leaves the gravel road as if he’d never have even come.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“I am aware that Dante Egret drove you off.” Mr. Green says
Bradford chuckles, “I thought it was so amusing that Dante mention Yuri Gold, seeing how he was already dead.”
“You were the one who killed Yuri and put the body in your car?” Mr. Green asks
“You are half right.” Bradford says with amusement
-FLASHBACK- TWO DAYS AGO-
Bradford enters the Study of Tudor Close as the early morning sun shines through the windows. He is preparing to meet with Dante Egret at the warehouse. He opens the morning paper and glances at the headline. He reads that Mrs. Peacock and Scott are still missing and that the murder of the accomplice, Francesca Thorn, is being personally investigated by Commissioner Forest. He sets the paper down on the desk and notices two feet sticking out from the other side of the desk. He quickly rushes over to see young Yuri Gold laying face first on the floor. The hair on the back of his head is matted down with dried blood. On the carpet several feet away is a bronze statue of the Eiffel Tower.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“The minute I noticed that someone was trying to frame me for Yuri’s death was the minute that I knew that the meeting at the warehouse was merely a set up too.” Bradford says, “So I knew that I would have to crash the car and lay low. When John set the car on fire I knew that I was completely safe. Someone would figure out it was arsen and then they would pin whoever set the fire to the murder of Yuri Gold.”
“Who killed Yuri Gold?” Mr. Green says
“That’s a very good question,” Bradford says, “The only people who knew of Yuri being in Hampshire were you, Dante, Sergei, Jane, and I.”
“Oh there is one other person who knew.” Mr. Green says with a smirk
“Who?” asks Bradford, “I’m rather intrigued by this whole matter.”
“How about I take you there and we can settle this situation the right way.” Mr. Green says
“I’m the one with the gun,” Bradford says, “I’m the one who will negotiate.”
“Bradford,” Mr. Green says, “If you kill me without knowing who is trying to get rid of you, you won’t be able to stop them.”
Outside the Stables, at Tudor Close, Mrs. White is wearing a raincoat and is making her way through the muddy puddles in the gravel pathway. She fumbles around with the ring of keys she is holding and begins to unlock the doors when she realizes it is open.
“Jet,” she calls out, “Are you in here, dearie?” she slides open the door and steps into the warmth of the Stables. A horse neighs in a stall as she is met with the smell of stale hay. She squints as she adjusts her eyes to the darkness. She turns on a switch which illuminates the room. She finds herself looking down the barrel of a gun.
“Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.” Mrs. White gasps as she stares into Mrs. Peacock’s eyes. She gasps as she sees Jet and Scott both bound together against a wooden post.
In the Lounge of Tudor Close, Mr. Boddy, Colonel Mustard, and Madame Rose mill about mindlessly. Mr. Ash builds a fire in the fireplace.
“Turn off the damn record player.” Mr. Boddy says fixing himself a gin and tonic.
Mr. Ash turns it off, “Mrs. White was selecting Hugh’s favorite records.”
“I really don’t care.” Mr. Boddy says, “I think this whole idea is tasteless.”
“I’m not fond of a memorial party either,” Madame Rose says, “But Sylvia has her heart set on it and half of the guests are already getting dressed for it.”
“I think it’s nice to honor Hugh.” Colonel Mustard says glancing out the window at the streaks of rain, “I do admit it’s rather soon.”
“Sylvia could have at least waited until grass started to grow over his grave.” Mr. Boddy says downing the drink, “Where the hell is she and Bradford?”
“Sir Bradford never came home from the funeral.” Mr. Ash says, “He said he had an errand to run. Mrs. Black was in the Study last I checked. She seemed to want some personal time.”
“Well she should come out here and act like the hostess.” Mr. Boddy says fixing himself another drink, “It was her idea to have this stupid party.”
“Don’t you think you’ve had enough?” asks Madame Rose
“Not nearly.” Mr. Boddy says, “The number uptight sycophants that will be swarming in tonight requires me to have a drink for each of them.”
“I’d rather drown my sorrows at the pub.” Colonel Mustard says taking a seat on the sofa.
“Sound a lot better than this nonsense.” Mr. Ash mumbles as he sets out glasses on the bar. The doorbell rings.
“Gracious,” Madame Rose glances at the clock above the fireplace, “People are coming already.”
Mr. Ash enters the Hall and notices how dark and shadowy it is. He turns on the chandelier that hangs in front of the large stained glass windows. It is at the moment that he notices how dark and stormy it is outside.
“My, it’s only half past four.” Mr. Ash mumbles to himself. He adjusts his waistcoat and opens the front door.
“Hello,” Lady Oakwood says as she and Lord Oakwood are escorted to the front door by their person butler, Mr. Crimson who closes the dripping wet umbrella he is toting. He unfolds Lord Oakwood’s wheel chair and Lord Oakwood weakly sits back down in it.
“Good evening Lord and Lady Oakwood.” Mr. Ash says allowing them to enter the Hall. He takes the umbrella from Mr. Crimson and hangs it in the Cloak Room.
“William,” Lady Oakwood addresses her butler, “Drive the car to the east side of the driveway.”
“May I take your wrap?” Mr. Ash offers returning to the Hall from the Cloak Room
“It’s a bit chilly in here.” Lady Oakwood says, “Perhaps you should put the heat on.”
“There is a fire going in the Lounge, Dining Room, and Library.” Mr. Ash says
“Wonderful.” Lady Oakwood says as she and Lord Oakwood head towards the Lounge.
On the Terrace of Tudor Close, Sir Bradford Black and Mr. Green approach the French windows. The rain has stopped. Thunder and lightning still continue to rumble. A light fog is beginning to come off the lake.
“You aren’t very good at transporting your hostages from point A to point B.” Mr. Green says, “Remember what happened with Sylvia?”
“Don’t talk.” Sir Bradford Black says as he forces open the terrace door leading into the Billiard Room.
In no time flat, Mrs. White is subdued by Mrs. Peacock and tied up to a post near Jet and Scott.
“I really hate it when nosy people make their way into situations that are clearly none of their business.” Mrs. Peacock says
“How do you expect this to turn out well for you?” asks Mrs. White as she tries to move her tightly bound wrists.
“I’m really not sure.” Mrs. Peacock says, “But the important thing to remember is that I’m not the villain here.”
“Well, you mislead me.” Jet says sarcastically
“Jet I really hope you’ll take my sincerest apologies for kidnapping your brother and putting your family through so much.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Just let us go.” Scott says in tears, “Haven’t we been through enough?”
Mrs. Peacock sighs and lowers her head, “Why do you think I have you tied up here? Why do you think I kidnapped you in the first place?”
“I don’t know!” Scott says shivering
“To keep you away from Bradford!” Mrs. Peacock says, “Bradford would have sold you to that African Prince in a heartbeat. I needed to concoct an elaborate scheme that would keep you as far away from Bradford as possible.”
“Then why did you abandon me with Monsieur Brunette back in Paris?” asks Scott
“Because of that private investigator.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It was easy to believe that Inspector Brown sent the Private Investigator after me…”
“He did.” Mrs. White says, “Inspector Brown told Sylvia that he had sent a PI after you and Scott.”
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “But Inspector Brown wasn’t the only one keeping in tabs with the PI.”
“Who else?” asks Jet
“I can’t say.” Mrs. Peacock begins to choke up
“Mrs. Peacock,” Mrs. White becomes alarmed, “Who set you up to do this?”
“Bradford,” Mrs. Peacock says, “He wanted Hugh dead so badly that he would stop at nothing to make sure that he was dead and that he got the money that Helena kept from him.”
“So you took me to keep me away from Bradford?” asks Scott
“I tried to get you out of the picture in Ms. Curry’s backyard.” Mrs. Peacock says, “But unfortunately that didn’t work.”
“But all those people!” Mrs. White says, “You killed innocent people!”
“Ms. Curry was a monster.” Mrs. Peacock says, “A blackmailing shrew. She was only a pawn in the way. Yes I killed her, yes I killed Hugh, yes I killed the others, but I won’t be the one that falls for this!”
“Then who will?” asks Jet
In the Billiard Room of Tudor Close, Sir Bradford Black forces Mr. Green into the center of the dark room. Lightning flashes outside illuminating the Billiard Room. Bradford and Mr. Green see a shadow move in the room.
“Who’s there?” Bradford asks, “I have a gun!”
Without warning or any indication a billiard cue slams over Bradford’s head. He drops the gun and falls to the floor.
Back out in the Stables, Mrs. Peacock cuts Scott, Jet, and Mrs. White loose.
“I can’t believe I’m staying this,” Mrs. White says, “But I would have done the same thing if I were in your position. What are you going to do now? With Hugh being you biological father and Bradford seeking vengeance on any potential heir…”
“Bradford will be taken care of.” Mrs. Peacock says, “But the end of the day he will be behind bars and life will resume.”
“You forgot on thing.” The doors of the Stables open and a figure silhouetted in the fog. Monsieur Brunette steps into the Stables with a sawn off shot-gun in his hands, “You have a terrible way of betraying your allies.”
“I paid you.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I don’t owe you anything more.”
“I hear that you made a deal with Sylvia in exchange for your freedom.” Monsieur Brunette says, “And the reward is at the Boat House?”
Scott and Jet glance at each other nervously.
“Scott was the reward.” Mrs. Peacock says
“No no no,” Monsieur Brunette says, “Scott was Sylvia’s reward. Let’s take a look at the Boat House, shall we?”
Monsieur Brunette grabs Jet in a headlock and pulls him close, “If any of you are gone by the time I get back here there will be one less teenager in England.”
“No!” Mrs. White gasps, “Please don’t!”
“Then stay here like I said!” Monsieur Brunette says, “I always win. One way or another I will get what I want!”
In the Lounge of Tudor Close, Miss Scarlet and Chandler Weiss talk to Dr. Olive and Miss Peach. Colonel Mustard and Sabata Bronce play chess. Madame Rose and Mr. Boddy survey the group while Lady Oakwood orders Mr. Ash around. Lord Oakwood sits reserved while looking through a photo album.
“I wonder when Sylvia will ever get here.” Madame Rose says glancing at the clock, “It’s getting late.”
“She’s probably putting on her makeup.” Mr. Boddy slurs as he drunkenly walks over to the minibar.
Across the Room, Miss Peach is not so subtly hinting about Helena.
“So I’m sure you know all about the Black family.” Miss Peach says
“We know enough.” Miss Scarlet says, “Our families have been friends since I was a little girl.”
“Did you know Hugh Black’s mother?” asks Miss Peach bluntly
Miss Scarlet and Chandler exchange an awkward glance, “Well… I’ve heard of her.”
“Some people say she died.” Miss Peach says
“Then I guess there’s not much left to her story.” Chandler chuckles nervously
“I’m not so sure.” Miss Peach says changing her tone
“Why do you take such an interest in Helena Black?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Because she’s my mother.” Miss Peach says to the shock of Dr. Olive.
“You couldn’t have been more subtle?” asks Dr. Olive
“Subtlety gets me nowhere.” Miss Peach says turning around. She sees Sylvia Black standing behind her in shock.
“Your… mother…” Sylvia’s voice trails off. She rushes out of the Lounge.
“I didn’t mean to upset anyone.” Miss Peach says
“You just wanted answers.” Miss Scarlet puts her hand on Miss Peach’s arm.
The evening air is crisp and cool. There is an eerie stillness over Hampshire. Jet Black and Monsieur Brunette stand on the Boat Dock outside of Tudor Close’s Boat House. Under Monsieur Brunette’s orders, Jet picks up the duffle bag full of money.
“Put it in the crate.” Monsieur Brunette orders motioning to the open wooden crate that is in the back of the row boat.
Jet reluctantly obeys and dumps the money in the crate. He then drops the duffle bag off the edge of the pier.
“Good,” Monsieur Brunette says, “I told you I will always win. Any last words?”
“Please, don’t,” Jet holds up his hands as he back up.
Monsieur Brunette walks forward with the shotgun and holds it eyelevel to Jet. A gunshot rings out. In the eerie stillness after the gunshot Monsieur Brunette lets out a long sigh and falls forward, the shotgun tumbles from his grip and hits the dock. Sylvia Black stands behind in the doorway of the Boat House, holding a German war pistol, which is smoking. Her hair is messy and there are tears in her eyes. Jet rushes over to his mother and throws his arms around her neck. The moon reflects off of the lake as the clouds part. They hurry off the Dock, leaving the money to blow gently in the light breeze. Jet and Sylvia make their way to the Terrace leading into Tudor Close.
“Stop!” Sylvia says
“What?” Jet says, “We need to go. Someone will have heard that gunshot!”
“I know,” Sylvia says, “But we can’t run away from our problems. We need to fix them ethically.”
“You are crazy!” Jet says, “For once in a long time everything is perfect! Now you want to ruin it all!”
“It’s not perfect!” Sylvia shouts, “It never was… it never will be anything that resembles a perfect life.”
“We don’t have to live this way anymore!” Jet says
“Bad luck always follows us!” Sylvia says, “You are crazy to think any of this will actually work!”
“He’s dead!” Jet says, “He’s the only one who has the power to ruin things.”
“His death is only going to ruin more lives,” Sylvia says, “More interrogations, more crimes, more questions that daren’t be answered.”
“We can hide the body.” Jet says, “No one will ever catch on.”
“I don’t know.” Sylvia says
“With Bradford being taken care of and Mrs. Peacock having explained everything…” Jet says
“Is Scott here?” asks Sylvia
“He’s in the Stables.” Jet says
Sylvia rushes off in the direction of the Stables. Jet follows after her. Sylvia throws open the doors to the Stables to see Mrs. White, Scott Black, and Mrs. Peacock. Mrs. Black drops the German war pistol.
“Scott,” Sylvia rushes over to her son and throws her arms around him. Scott buries his face into his mother’s chest as the two are finally reunited. Mrs. White reaches out and holds Jet’s hand. Mrs. Peacock lowers her head and begins to cry.
Many miles away in an unknown location, Prince Philippe Azure walks down the long bright hallway of a Hospital. He is being escorted by his royal advisor, Mr. Rivers, and a nurse. Mr. Rivers talks to the nurse while Prince Azure remains silent.
“She’s in here.” The nurse says
“How long has she been in a coma?” asks Prince Azure
“Only a few days.” The nurse says unlocking the door
“Will she live?” asks Prince Azure with worry on his voice
“We can’t guarantee anything,” the nurse says, “But she has taken well to the blood transfusion.”
Prince Azure enters the room to see Helena Black lying motionless on the hospital bed. He walks over to her and whispers in her ear, “I’ll do anything I can to bring your grandson to you.”
-Friday, April 22, 1949 –
-Late Afternoon-
Mrs. Blanche White starts the record player as the music fills the Lounge. She begins to dance in a somewhat cheery way. Mr. Ash enters the Lounge to see Mrs. White dancing awkwardly.
“I take it you found all of Hugh’s favorite records?” asks Mr. Ash raising an eyebrow
“Dance with me, Reggie,” Mrs. White holds open her arms for Mr. Ash
“Under the circumstances,” Mr. Ash stops the record player, “I think the records were merely meant to be played softly in honor of Hugh. They will not be used to waltz along with”
“We can’t always be grouchy and depressed,” Mrs. White says, “The funeral is over after all.”
“Still,” Mr. Ash says, “The master of the house was murdered, his killer is still on the loose, and he was laid to rest today.”
“Perhaps I did go a bit overboard.” Mrs. White says, “Have you seen Jet?”
“Not since we got back from the funeral.” Mr. Ash says, “He went out to the Stables.”
“Well heavens,” Mrs. White looks out the large windows of the Lounge, “It’s still raining; he’ll catch cold.”
In the Study of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black paces back and forth. On the desk is a duffle bag full of money. She glances next to the bag at the German War Pistol, which she found several days earlier. Mr. Ash enters the Study.
“We are just about ready for the guests.” Mr. Ash says
“Can you take this bag out to the Boat House?” Mrs. Black points to the bag.
“Is this for Mrs. Peacock?” asks Mr. Ash
“I have a feeling it might come in handy during the rendezvous.” Mrs. Black says
From the Secret Passage door a figure watches intently while holding onto a sawn-off shotgun.
“I’m not sure if taunting a killer with a bag of money is a good idea.” Mr. Ash says
“Mr. Ash,” Mrs. Black closes her eyes holding back the tears, “I want my son back. When I want your opinion I’ll ask.”
Mr. Ash nods stiffly as he zips up the duffle bag and exits the Study. Sylvia waits a few moments and then takes the German war pistol and exits the Study, heading for the staircase.
In the Attic of Tudor Close, Sergei Gold slowly opens his eyes and moves his hand to his side and touches the cloth that is preventing him from bleeding out. The door to the attic opens up as Sylvia Black rushes in, in a hurry. Sylvia Black grabs Sergei Gold by the collar of his shirt.
“Where are they?” Sylvia asks
“Please, I need help.” Sergei says, “I don’t know where they are!”
Mrs. Black pulls out the German war pistol, “I am not playing games here. Tell me where my son is!”
“Outside.” Sergei says, “She took him outside.”
“The Boat House?” asks Mrs. Black
“Maybe.” Sergei says
Mrs. Black rushes to the stairs
“Don’t leave me here.” Sergei says
“After everything you and Bradford have put me through, why should I care.” Mrs. Black says heartlessly as she abandons him in the attic.
In his bedroom across the street, Mr. Green is still at gunpoint. Sir Bradford Black walks circles around him, never letting the revolver out of the fire line of Mr. Green’s head.
“Bradford,” Mr. Green says, “You are an incredibly lucky man. You’ve survived people’s plots against your life, a car crash, and being hostage in a crawlspace. I don’t know how much longer you are going to stay lucky. If you kill me people will notice that I am missing. They will pinpoint you to me.”
“I will agree with you that I have been lucky for the most part,” Bradford says, “But don’t think for a second that I was stupid enough to drive off that cliff.”
-FLASHBACK- TWO DAYS AGO-
Outside of an old run down ware house in Hampshire, Sir Bradford Black looks up at it in disgust as he readjusts his gold-buttoned coat. Mr. Dante Egret places a gun in his belt as he approaches the unsuspected older man.
“Sir Bradford,” Dante puts on a charming smile, “I’m Dante Egret. I’m here to show you this warehouse.”
“It’s rather threadbare.” Sir Bradford mumbles half to himself
“I assure you this is a good investment.” Dante says trying to hurry Bradford along, “A Russian man, Gaspodin Gold, said that it may solve the tension between the two of you.”
“Sergei sent you?” Sir Bradford Black asks
“I believe the name was Yuri.” Dante says motioning for them to enter the warehouse
“Damn,” Sir Bradford Black lowers his voice, “Mr. Egret, thank you for your time but I’m going to have to take a pass on this investment offer.”
“Sir, you must reconsider.” Dante says in sudden panic
“Thank you, no.” Sir Bradford Black says getting back into his black car.
Dante pulls out his gun and shoots the front right tire. Sir Bradford Black panics as he sees him do this and quickly turns on the engine and drives away, having a bit of trouble controlling the car. Dante gets in his car and follows him banging into his bumper every few seconds. He slams into the back of Bradford’s car hard and long, sending the car off the gravel road that leads to Tudor Close. The car rolls into the same ravine that Jessica fell into a several days prior. Dante backs up and leaves the gravel road as if he’d never have even come.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“I am aware that Dante Egret drove you off.” Mr. Green says
Bradford chuckles, “I thought it was so amusing that Dante mention Yuri Gold, seeing how he was already dead.”
“You were the one who killed Yuri and put the body in your car?” Mr. Green asks
“You are half right.” Bradford says with amusement
-FLASHBACK- TWO DAYS AGO-
Bradford enters the Study of Tudor Close as the early morning sun shines through the windows. He is preparing to meet with Dante Egret at the warehouse. He opens the morning paper and glances at the headline. He reads that Mrs. Peacock and Scott are still missing and that the murder of the accomplice, Francesca Thorn, is being personally investigated by Commissioner Forest. He sets the paper down on the desk and notices two feet sticking out from the other side of the desk. He quickly rushes over to see young Yuri Gold laying face first on the floor. The hair on the back of his head is matted down with dried blood. On the carpet several feet away is a bronze statue of the Eiffel Tower.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“The minute I noticed that someone was trying to frame me for Yuri’s death was the minute that I knew that the meeting at the warehouse was merely a set up too.” Bradford says, “So I knew that I would have to crash the car and lay low. When John set the car on fire I knew that I was completely safe. Someone would figure out it was arsen and then they would pin whoever set the fire to the murder of Yuri Gold.”
“Who killed Yuri Gold?” Mr. Green says
“That’s a very good question,” Bradford says, “The only people who knew of Yuri being in Hampshire were you, Dante, Sergei, Jane, and I.”
“Oh there is one other person who knew.” Mr. Green says with a smirk
“Who?” asks Bradford, “I’m rather intrigued by this whole matter.”
“How about I take you there and we can settle this situation the right way.” Mr. Green says
“I’m the one with the gun,” Bradford says, “I’m the one who will negotiate.”
“Bradford,” Mr. Green says, “If you kill me without knowing who is trying to get rid of you, you won’t be able to stop them.”
Outside the Stables, at Tudor Close, Mrs. White is wearing a raincoat and is making her way through the muddy puddles in the gravel pathway. She fumbles around with the ring of keys she is holding and begins to unlock the doors when she realizes it is open.
“Jet,” she calls out, “Are you in here, dearie?” she slides open the door and steps into the warmth of the Stables. A horse neighs in a stall as she is met with the smell of stale hay. She squints as she adjusts her eyes to the darkness. She turns on a switch which illuminates the room. She finds herself looking down the barrel of a gun.
“Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.” Mrs. White gasps as she stares into Mrs. Peacock’s eyes. She gasps as she sees Jet and Scott both bound together against a wooden post.
In the Lounge of Tudor Close, Mr. Boddy, Colonel Mustard, and Madame Rose mill about mindlessly. Mr. Ash builds a fire in the fireplace.
“Turn off the damn record player.” Mr. Boddy says fixing himself a gin and tonic.
Mr. Ash turns it off, “Mrs. White was selecting Hugh’s favorite records.”
“I really don’t care.” Mr. Boddy says, “I think this whole idea is tasteless.”
“I’m not fond of a memorial party either,” Madame Rose says, “But Sylvia has her heart set on it and half of the guests are already getting dressed for it.”
“I think it’s nice to honor Hugh.” Colonel Mustard says glancing out the window at the streaks of rain, “I do admit it’s rather soon.”
“Sylvia could have at least waited until grass started to grow over his grave.” Mr. Boddy says downing the drink, “Where the hell is she and Bradford?”
“Sir Bradford never came home from the funeral.” Mr. Ash says, “He said he had an errand to run. Mrs. Black was in the Study last I checked. She seemed to want some personal time.”
“Well she should come out here and act like the hostess.” Mr. Boddy says fixing himself another drink, “It was her idea to have this stupid party.”
“Don’t you think you’ve had enough?” asks Madame Rose
“Not nearly.” Mr. Boddy says, “The number uptight sycophants that will be swarming in tonight requires me to have a drink for each of them.”
“I’d rather drown my sorrows at the pub.” Colonel Mustard says taking a seat on the sofa.
“Sound a lot better than this nonsense.” Mr. Ash mumbles as he sets out glasses on the bar. The doorbell rings.
“Gracious,” Madame Rose glances at the clock above the fireplace, “People are coming already.”
Mr. Ash enters the Hall and notices how dark and shadowy it is. He turns on the chandelier that hangs in front of the large stained glass windows. It is at the moment that he notices how dark and stormy it is outside.
“My, it’s only half past four.” Mr. Ash mumbles to himself. He adjusts his waistcoat and opens the front door.
“Hello,” Lady Oakwood says as she and Lord Oakwood are escorted to the front door by their person butler, Mr. Crimson who closes the dripping wet umbrella he is toting. He unfolds Lord Oakwood’s wheel chair and Lord Oakwood weakly sits back down in it.
“Good evening Lord and Lady Oakwood.” Mr. Ash says allowing them to enter the Hall. He takes the umbrella from Mr. Crimson and hangs it in the Cloak Room.
“William,” Lady Oakwood addresses her butler, “Drive the car to the east side of the driveway.”
“May I take your wrap?” Mr. Ash offers returning to the Hall from the Cloak Room
“It’s a bit chilly in here.” Lady Oakwood says, “Perhaps you should put the heat on.”
“There is a fire going in the Lounge, Dining Room, and Library.” Mr. Ash says
“Wonderful.” Lady Oakwood says as she and Lord Oakwood head towards the Lounge.
On the Terrace of Tudor Close, Sir Bradford Black and Mr. Green approach the French windows. The rain has stopped. Thunder and lightning still continue to rumble. A light fog is beginning to come off the lake.
“You aren’t very good at transporting your hostages from point A to point B.” Mr. Green says, “Remember what happened with Sylvia?”
“Don’t talk.” Sir Bradford Black says as he forces open the terrace door leading into the Billiard Room.
In no time flat, Mrs. White is subdued by Mrs. Peacock and tied up to a post near Jet and Scott.
“I really hate it when nosy people make their way into situations that are clearly none of their business.” Mrs. Peacock says
“How do you expect this to turn out well for you?” asks Mrs. White as she tries to move her tightly bound wrists.
“I’m really not sure.” Mrs. Peacock says, “But the important thing to remember is that I’m not the villain here.”
“Well, you mislead me.” Jet says sarcastically
“Jet I really hope you’ll take my sincerest apologies for kidnapping your brother and putting your family through so much.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Just let us go.” Scott says in tears, “Haven’t we been through enough?”
Mrs. Peacock sighs and lowers her head, “Why do you think I have you tied up here? Why do you think I kidnapped you in the first place?”
“I don’t know!” Scott says shivering
“To keep you away from Bradford!” Mrs. Peacock says, “Bradford would have sold you to that African Prince in a heartbeat. I needed to concoct an elaborate scheme that would keep you as far away from Bradford as possible.”
“Then why did you abandon me with Monsieur Brunette back in Paris?” asks Scott
“Because of that private investigator.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It was easy to believe that Inspector Brown sent the Private Investigator after me…”
“He did.” Mrs. White says, “Inspector Brown told Sylvia that he had sent a PI after you and Scott.”
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “But Inspector Brown wasn’t the only one keeping in tabs with the PI.”
“Who else?” asks Jet
“I can’t say.” Mrs. Peacock begins to choke up
“Mrs. Peacock,” Mrs. White becomes alarmed, “Who set you up to do this?”
“Bradford,” Mrs. Peacock says, “He wanted Hugh dead so badly that he would stop at nothing to make sure that he was dead and that he got the money that Helena kept from him.”
“So you took me to keep me away from Bradford?” asks Scott
“I tried to get you out of the picture in Ms. Curry’s backyard.” Mrs. Peacock says, “But unfortunately that didn’t work.”
“But all those people!” Mrs. White says, “You killed innocent people!”
“Ms. Curry was a monster.” Mrs. Peacock says, “A blackmailing shrew. She was only a pawn in the way. Yes I killed her, yes I killed Hugh, yes I killed the others, but I won’t be the one that falls for this!”
“Then who will?” asks Jet
In the Billiard Room of Tudor Close, Sir Bradford Black forces Mr. Green into the center of the dark room. Lightning flashes outside illuminating the Billiard Room. Bradford and Mr. Green see a shadow move in the room.
“Who’s there?” Bradford asks, “I have a gun!”
Without warning or any indication a billiard cue slams over Bradford’s head. He drops the gun and falls to the floor.
Back out in the Stables, Mrs. Peacock cuts Scott, Jet, and Mrs. White loose.
“I can’t believe I’m staying this,” Mrs. White says, “But I would have done the same thing if I were in your position. What are you going to do now? With Hugh being you biological father and Bradford seeking vengeance on any potential heir…”
“Bradford will be taken care of.” Mrs. Peacock says, “But the end of the day he will be behind bars and life will resume.”
“You forgot on thing.” The doors of the Stables open and a figure silhouetted in the fog. Monsieur Brunette steps into the Stables with a sawn off shot-gun in his hands, “You have a terrible way of betraying your allies.”
“I paid you.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I don’t owe you anything more.”
“I hear that you made a deal with Sylvia in exchange for your freedom.” Monsieur Brunette says, “And the reward is at the Boat House?”
Scott and Jet glance at each other nervously.
“Scott was the reward.” Mrs. Peacock says
“No no no,” Monsieur Brunette says, “Scott was Sylvia’s reward. Let’s take a look at the Boat House, shall we?”
Monsieur Brunette grabs Jet in a headlock and pulls him close, “If any of you are gone by the time I get back here there will be one less teenager in England.”
“No!” Mrs. White gasps, “Please don’t!”
“Then stay here like I said!” Monsieur Brunette says, “I always win. One way or another I will get what I want!”
In the Lounge of Tudor Close, Miss Scarlet and Chandler Weiss talk to Dr. Olive and Miss Peach. Colonel Mustard and Sabata Bronce play chess. Madame Rose and Mr. Boddy survey the group while Lady Oakwood orders Mr. Ash around. Lord Oakwood sits reserved while looking through a photo album.
“I wonder when Sylvia will ever get here.” Madame Rose says glancing at the clock, “It’s getting late.”
“She’s probably putting on her makeup.” Mr. Boddy slurs as he drunkenly walks over to the minibar.
Across the Room, Miss Peach is not so subtly hinting about Helena.
“So I’m sure you know all about the Black family.” Miss Peach says
“We know enough.” Miss Scarlet says, “Our families have been friends since I was a little girl.”
“Did you know Hugh Black’s mother?” asks Miss Peach bluntly
Miss Scarlet and Chandler exchange an awkward glance, “Well… I’ve heard of her.”
“Some people say she died.” Miss Peach says
“Then I guess there’s not much left to her story.” Chandler chuckles nervously
“I’m not so sure.” Miss Peach says changing her tone
“Why do you take such an interest in Helena Black?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Because she’s my mother.” Miss Peach says to the shock of Dr. Olive.
“You couldn’t have been more subtle?” asks Dr. Olive
“Subtlety gets me nowhere.” Miss Peach says turning around. She sees Sylvia Black standing behind her in shock.
“Your… mother…” Sylvia’s voice trails off. She rushes out of the Lounge.
“I didn’t mean to upset anyone.” Miss Peach says
“You just wanted answers.” Miss Scarlet puts her hand on Miss Peach’s arm.
The evening air is crisp and cool. There is an eerie stillness over Hampshire. Jet Black and Monsieur Brunette stand on the Boat Dock outside of Tudor Close’s Boat House. Under Monsieur Brunette’s orders, Jet picks up the duffle bag full of money.
“Put it in the crate.” Monsieur Brunette orders motioning to the open wooden crate that is in the back of the row boat.
Jet reluctantly obeys and dumps the money in the crate. He then drops the duffle bag off the edge of the pier.
“Good,” Monsieur Brunette says, “I told you I will always win. Any last words?”
“Please, don’t,” Jet holds up his hands as he back up.
Monsieur Brunette walks forward with the shotgun and holds it eyelevel to Jet. A gunshot rings out. In the eerie stillness after the gunshot Monsieur Brunette lets out a long sigh and falls forward, the shotgun tumbles from his grip and hits the dock. Sylvia Black stands behind in the doorway of the Boat House, holding a German war pistol, which is smoking. Her hair is messy and there are tears in her eyes. Jet rushes over to his mother and throws his arms around her neck. The moon reflects off of the lake as the clouds part. They hurry off the Dock, leaving the money to blow gently in the light breeze. Jet and Sylvia make their way to the Terrace leading into Tudor Close.
“Stop!” Sylvia says
“What?” Jet says, “We need to go. Someone will have heard that gunshot!”
“I know,” Sylvia says, “But we can’t run away from our problems. We need to fix them ethically.”
“You are crazy!” Jet says, “For once in a long time everything is perfect! Now you want to ruin it all!”
“It’s not perfect!” Sylvia shouts, “It never was… it never will be anything that resembles a perfect life.”
“We don’t have to live this way anymore!” Jet says
“Bad luck always follows us!” Sylvia says, “You are crazy to think any of this will actually work!”
“He’s dead!” Jet says, “He’s the only one who has the power to ruin things.”
“His death is only going to ruin more lives,” Sylvia says, “More interrogations, more crimes, more questions that daren’t be answered.”
“We can hide the body.” Jet says, “No one will ever catch on.”
“I don’t know.” Sylvia says
“With Bradford being taken care of and Mrs. Peacock having explained everything…” Jet says
“Is Scott here?” asks Sylvia
“He’s in the Stables.” Jet says
Sylvia rushes off in the direction of the Stables. Jet follows after her. Sylvia throws open the doors to the Stables to see Mrs. White, Scott Black, and Mrs. Peacock. Mrs. Black drops the German war pistol.
“Scott,” Sylvia rushes over to her son and throws her arms around him. Scott buries his face into his mother’s chest as the two are finally reunited. Mrs. White reaches out and holds Jet’s hand. Mrs. Peacock lowers her head and begins to cry.
Many miles away in an unknown location, Prince Philippe Azure walks down the long bright hallway of a Hospital. He is being escorted by his royal advisor, Mr. Rivers, and a nurse. Mr. Rivers talks to the nurse while Prince Azure remains silent.
“She’s in here.” The nurse says
“How long has she been in a coma?” asks Prince Azure
“Only a few days.” The nurse says unlocking the door
“Will she live?” asks Prince Azure with worry on his voice
“We can’t guarantee anything,” the nurse says, “But she has taken well to the blood transfusion.”
Prince Azure enters the room to see Helena Black lying motionless on the hospital bed. He walks over to her and whispers in her ear, “I’ll do anything I can to bring your grandson to you.”