As the idea of a scavenger hunt comes together in Frodi's mind, she begins to feel excited by it. She smiles to herself, thinking of all the places she could send Nick to... all the clues she could leave for him. She leaves the shop, and locks up, with so many ideas buzzing around her head.
MALE VOICE: Hi there.
Frodi jumps. She was so lost in thought, she hadn't noticed anyone else. She looks up at the person who spoke to her.
FRODI: Luca... hi.
LUCA: Haven't seen you around for a few days. Everything okay?
FRODI: Yeah, I've just been busy.
LUCA: *looks at the burnt-out toy shop* What happened here?
FRODI: *doesn't know about the spy cameras* Someone set fire to our shop.
LUCA: How horrible. Who would do such a thing?
FRODI: I dunno.
Frodi starts walking down the path, wishing Luca would leave her alone, so she can get on with planning Nick's scavenger hut. But Luca walks alongside her. She looks at him out of the corner of her eye.
FRODI: How's Trina?
LUCA: She's fine. She's at home resting. *long pause* Hey, I've idea. Want to go for a refreshing drink somewhere?
FRODI: Sorry Luca, I can't. I have a ton of things to do... *thinks quickly* then I'm meeting Nick for lunch.
LUCA: *stops in his tracks* You're meeting... Nick? Um... okay. I should be going anyway. There's something I'm working on in my workshop. See you later then.
Did Frodi see a flash of anger in Luca's eyes? She's not sure. Something has changed in Luca - he's not the quiet, shy man she was friends with before. Something about him makes her feel tense. And the way he looks at her sometimes... as though he's staring right into her soul. Frodi shudders. At least he's gone for now. Frodi's thoughts turn back to the scavenger hunt. First thing's first - she'll need someone to look after the kids.
Bing & Alessea's House...
All is quiet in Bing & Alessea's house. Aurelius and Cassima are upstairs doing their homework, Alosrin is happily playing with his toys, and the adults are talking in the living room.
DING DONG... DING DONG
ALOSRIN: Muuuummm, someone's at the door.
ALESSEA: I'll get it.
Alessea goes to answer the door, and sees Frodi standing there. She invites Frodi into the living room.
FRODI: I'm sorry to bother you all. I wondered if you and Bing were available to babysit tomorrow? It's just... with everything that's happened recently, I wanted to do something nice for Nick. He's been through so much recently. And I had the idea of a scavenger hunt, followed by some time alone with him.
BING: Of course, Frodi. We can look after the kids for you.
GONDIEN: It is always a pleasure to see those adorable children you have, Frodi.
Frodi smiles gratefully at them. With the babysitting taken care of, she can now set to work on planning the scavenger hunt.
Sein Dor Hotel...
That evening, Nick & Frodi decide to get Room Service for their tea - meals are brought up to their suite.
FRODI: Hey kids... how do you fancy spending the day with Uncle Bing & Aunty Alessea tomorrow? It'll be like a wee holiday. You'll also get to see uncle Gondien and uncle Aurelius.
Nick looks at Frodi with surprise.
Lilla and Michael look at each other, and roll their eyes. Their old enough to realise, this means 'Mum wants some alone time with dad'.
Rosie, Vincent, and Eurus squeel with delight.
The next day...
The next day, Gondien arrives to collect the children. He winks at Frodi, hoping her plan works out. After everyone has left, Nick pulls Frodi onto his knee.
NICK: Okay Frodi Zarano... what are you up to? You've been acting all weird since yesterday.
FRODI: *innocently* I don't know what you mean.
NICK: Come on... out with it. *pretends to scold her* Or I'll revoke your ice cream & coffee powder privilages.
FRODI: *giggles* Oh! I seem to have left something in the bedroom... on the bed. Could you get it for me?
Nick gives her a funny look, then goes through to the bedroom. He sees an envelope lying on the bed, with his name on it. He opens it.
Quote
Solve all the clues, and you shall meet a great reward.
1. The BEST pudding ever created... EVER!!!
Nick grins. Coming from Frodi, this can only be one thing - coffee powder and ice cream. He walks back through to where Frodi is sitting, and sticks his tongue out at her. Then he walks over to the coffe cups and drinks (there's no freezer in the hotel suite, so it can't be the ice cream part), and picks up the jar off coffee powder. Sure enough, there's another envelope with his name on it. Again, he opens it.
Quote
2. Where is the Boogie Man?
Nick chuckles. He goes back through to the bedroom, and looks under the bed. Sure enough... another envelope.
Quote
3. A hobbit guards this.
Nick is chuckling to himself. This is crazy! He walks back through to Frodi, who is sitting in a chair.
NICK: *grins* Are you enjoying this?
FRODI: Oh yes! *giggles*
NICK: Good. Now get up.
FRODI: *trying not to laugh* Why?
Nick leans down and kisses her, then lifts her up. His suspicians were correct - Frodi was sitting on the next envelope. He opens it.
Quote
4. I never promised you a rose garden.
Nick thinks. Could that mean the rose bush in the hotel grounds? He looks at Frodi.
NICK: I'm married to an insane hobbit. It's the only explanation. *grins*
FRODI: But you love me anyway?
NICK: *pulls her into his arms, and kisses her* Definately! *smiles*
Nick pats her bum, winks at her, and grabs his jacket.
NICK: I'll be back.
Frodi waits 10 minutes. He should be far enough away from the hotel by now, and he'll be gone for several hours. She heads out to buy some last-minute items. Meanwhile, Nick is travelling all over town, looking for the clues.
Quote
16. This scavenger hunt is pretty long. Why don't you sit down, and have a rest? You can feed the ducks, while you're at it.
That could only be the park bench!
Quote
24. Nice view of the beach.
Must be their beach house.
Quote
29. As in any circle, you end up where you began.
NICK: *laughs* I guess that means, go back to the hotel.
Nick heads back to the hotel room. Stuck to the door is an envelope.
Quote
30. Put this on, and come inside.
Nick opens the envelope... and finds a blindfold. He does as he is told, he puts on the blindfold, and feels his way into the room.
NICK: Frodi? Are you there?
FRODI: Welcome back Nick. Did you have fun?
Frodi is naked, but Nick can't see that, cos of the blindfold.
NICK: Hehehe. THAT is the most INSANE thing you've ever done! I loved it!
FRODI: I'm glad. But there's more to come. No peeking now!
Frodi pulls faces at Nick, to make sure he can't see. When she's satisfied, she slowly unzips his jacket, and throws it to the floor. Then she unbuttons his shirt, and kisses his chest.
NICK: HEY! That tickles! And... are you trying to seduce me?
FRODI: Maybe. *licks his chest*
Frodi unbuckles his trousers, and pulls them down.
FRODI: *takes both his hands* Now step forward.
Nick steps forward, away from his trousers. He's now only wearing a pair of boxers. Frodi takes Nick's hands, and leads him to a chair. She sits him down, and ties his hands behind the chair.
NICK: *grinning* What's going on?
FRODI: Oh... nothing.
Frodi sits on his lap... her bare skin against his bare skin. A huge grin appears on Nick's face.
NICK: Are you naked?
FRODI: That's for you to decide. *kisses him*
Since Nick has the blindfold on, he can't see the tray of food lying next to them. Frodi picks up a can of squirty cream.
FRODI: Open wide.
Nick opens his mouth, and Frodi puts a strawberry to his mouth. He bites into it, and the juice runs down his chin, making them both laugh. She feeds him a few more strawberries, with him biting half, and her taking the other half.
FRODI: You like that?
NICK: *nods* Mmmm, tastes good.
FRODI: Of course, you can't have strawberries without...
Frodi picks up a can of squirty cream, and squirts some into his mouth.
NICK: Why don't you squirt some of that on yourself, and I can lick it off? *grins*
FRODI: *giggles, and kisses him* Maybe later.
Frodi squirts cream onto his chest, then licks some of it off.
NICK: *laughing* Yeah, attack me when I'm tied up and defenceless... you little cheater. Just wait till I'm free.
While his mouth is open, Frodi pops another strawberry in. He bites it, and more strawberry juice runs down his chin, mixing with the squirty cream.
NICK: You know what I'd really like next? A kiss from my crazy wife.
Frodi touches his face, and kisses him passionately - a long, loving kiss.
NICK: Now THAT was the best thing on the menu!
FRODI: I've got something special for you now. Chocolate chip cookie.
Frodi breaks off part of the cookie, and pops it in Nick's mouth. Nick closes his mouth on the cookie, sucking Frodi's fingers at the same time. Frodi laughs, manages to free her fingers, and strokes his cheek as he munches the cookie.
FRODI: Do you remember, many years ago, we were in a hotel room. You had a cookie, and the crumbs got stuck in your beard?
NICK: *swallows the cookie* I remember. Then I sprinkled some crumbs in your hair.
FRODI: Heehee. Now it's time for my revenge. *sprinkles some cookie crumbs in his hair*
NICK: Well, that's my supper sorted out then. *grins*
FRODI: *puts her arm around him* Back then... I never dared hope you could have feelings for me.
NICK: And look at us now! *smiles, and tries to kiss her*
FRODI: I'm so much in love with you Nick. *leans in for another kiss*
NICK: Me too. Love you with everything I have. *kisses her* Even though you do tie me up, and blindfold me.
FRODI: *licks his chin* Speaking of which, you're covered in food.
NICK: And who's fault is that? *sticks his tongue out*
FRODI: Come on.
Frodi unties Nick, making him promise to keep the blindfold on. She leads him through to the bathroom, where a nice bubblebath is waiting for him, then she climbs in after hiim. She gently washes him all over, and he washes her bump.
After the bath, she helps him out, and dries him off. Still with the blindfold on, she guides him through to the bedroom, and sits him down on the bed.
FRODI: Now this is the best part. *smiles* I'm your sex slave. You have to tell me what to do, and I'll do it. *takes his hand*
Frodi's excited. She's never done this before. She's already wet, from them washing each other in the bath, and she's full of anticipation how this 'sex slave' thing will work out. She kisses Nick's hand, waiting for him to say what he wants her to do.
Nick: Sex slave? What has gotten into you? *laughs*
Frodi: Maybe it's my sexy husband who has gotten to me.. *leans in, and nibbles his ear*
Nick leans his head back.
Frodi: So, what do you want me to do.. master?
Nick: Mmm.. well, the first thing.. is something you might enjoy.
Frodi nibbles his earlobe, and licks down the side of his face.
Frodi: What?
Nick: Go down on me.
Frodi: *smiles* My pleasure..
Frodi kisses, and licks her way down Nick's body. His breathing shallow. He lets out small moans, as Frodi's tongue slides down his skin. The sensation of her tongue on his skin is indescribable.
Eventually, she reaches his lower area, and is package. She licks his package up and down, teasing him. He moans loudly. She opens her mouth, and lets him slide into her mouth, brushing against her tongue. She keeps moving her tongue around his shaft, while her hands play with his package's "accessories" on the outside.
Nick: Oh.. Frodi..
She moves her head back and forth, his package rubbing against her lips. With each movement, she takes him deeper into her mouth. By now, she can fully taste him.
Downstairs..
Ballroom..
A young man walks past security. He heads into the crowded, and noisy ballroom. People are talking, classical music is playing. The young man walks over to the bar.
Bartender: What can.. *pauses* Oh, Mr. Zarano, what can I get for you?
Man: Excuse me? *looks puzzled*
Bartender: It's a pleasure to serve you. You're a legend! Though.. you do look younger in person. You look only in your twenties.
Man: That's because I am in my twenties. I think you have me confused with someone else. I'm not Mr. Zarano.
Bartender: Oh, my apologizes sir. You just.. look so much like him. You must get that alot.
Man: *looks away, at the center of the room, where people are gathering on a small stage* You have no idea.
Bartender: So, what can I get for you?
Man: A martini. Shaken. Not stirred.
As the bartender pours the drink, the man appears to be nervous. He taps one of his fingers on the counter, and watches the center of the room. His attention on one man.. an unknown man.
Clapping is heard, and the music stops. A woman with long red hair is given a microphone.
Woman: Thank you, thank you. You all know why we are gathered here tonight, to celebrate the new partnership between NolCorp, and Cotton Industries. This deal has been in the making for months, and has finally reached it's conclusion. With this new partnership, Cotton Industries, and Mr. Cotton himself, will be taking up business here in the beautiful country of Sein Dor.
The crowd claps.
The man at the bar sips his martini, and places his hand on his knee. He watches intently.
Woman: And now, without further ado.. I give you the CEO of Cotton Industries, our boss, Mr. Nick Cotton.
The crowd applauds loudly and whistles, as the microphone is even to a man who takes the center of the room. Nick Cotton. Drink in-hand.
Nick Cotton: So.. I assume all of you.. want a speech? *drinks* I give you gratitude! Well, I thank everyone... my heart of my bottom for coming here tonight. It's been a real pleasure to be talked down to and stared at. But most of all I'd like to thank the man who made it all possible, the man who put me in this spot in the first place. Nolan Ross! *raises his glass*
Across the room, it is seen that Nolan is standing at the back of the room. He is clearly not enthusiastic about being here.
Nick Cotton: What a pleasure, to know such a man, such a man as Nolan Ross. *winks at Nolan* Never mind corporate allies, we are going to be best friends.
The crowd claps. It's clear Nick Cotton is trouble. Besides Cotton's drinking putting him off, it is clear Nolan has no love for Nick Cotton, and his business. Something is off.
Nick Cotton: I kid you all! To new adventures, new business, and a hell of a new world of profit here in Sein Dor, cheers!
As mostly everyone in the ballroom drinks, the man at the bar gets up from his seat.
He quickly walks through the crowd, reaches into his pocket, and pulls out a gun.
People are heard gasping, and screaming. The man points his gun at Nick Cotton, and fires.
Cotton is shot! He falls backwards, knocking over a table. Security comes running into the room, and the man turns the gun on the guards, shooting both guards.
Quickly, the man makes his way out of the ballroom, the bartender in shock at what he just saw. Panic begins in the ballroom, as some try to tend to the wounded.
It was an assassination attempt.
Nolan looks at the door, and thinks.
Nolan: .. Nick? No. It couldn't have been.
Nolan quickly leaves the ballroom.
Meanwhile, a bloody Nick Cotton, who has only been shot in the hand, grabs onto the wound.
Nick Cotton: *enraged* FIND HIM! FIND THE SON OF A BITCH WHO DID THIS! KILL HIM!
Steelport Prison..
Sherlock walks into the city, and is escorted by guards to the visiting area.
Sherlock: An entire magical city left in ruins. So what does the government do? They put a large electrically-charged wall around it, throw in some of the most insane criminals the world has to offer, and let them run lose. Oh yes, this sounds brilliant.
Guard: It works. It allows the inmates more freedom.
Sherlock: It's hell on earth.
Sherlock is eventually brought into the visitors section. His brother stands behind glass. They can only talk via a phone. Both brothers pick up their receiver.
Sherlock: Hello brother. You look.. well. Besides the scratches.
Todd: Why do you care?
Sherlock: No hello?
Todd: Fuck off Sherlock. As if I'm going to kiss your ass. You did nothing to help stop this.
Sherlock: Why did I bother coming all this way?
Todd: Because you're guilty.
Sherlock: Guilty? Todd, you put yourself in this prison. Me, I turned my life around years ago. You never could. I did it to keep a woman.
Todd: Women. Yeah, women. Pfft. I've finally realized, that the bitch (Frodi) doesn't deserve me. Instead. one day, she will wake up.. next to him, and realize what a terrible person he is. She will regret marrying him. I've also seen how she single handily destroyed my life. *laughs* It's kinda ironic.. at one point, I had the chance of raping her. Instead, I saved her life. So what does she do for me? She destroys mine. Next time, I'll rape, and maybe kill her.
Sherlock: Well, I *do* believe in love. But I believe in loving the one you're with.
Todd: Mm, what are you now Sherlock, stupid or Catholic?
Sherlock: Both.
Todd: You wasted your time Sherlock. Go home.
Todd hangs up the receiver.
As Todd is handcuffed, and is escorted away by guards, he sings.
Todd: *singing* Sherlock's up and Sherlock's down but he's always wears that sacred frown!
Sherlock can hear Todd singing through the glass. He looks down worriedly.
Back in Sein Dor..
Sein Dor Hotel..
Nick and Frodi's Room..
Frodi comes back up to Nick's face.
Frodi: What can I do next..?
Nick: After that amazing experience.. I'm ready for the main event. Why don't you sit on my lap?
Frodi climbs ontop of Nick, and lowers herself onto him.. his package sliding into her. She lets out a gasp, and begins moving up and down. Nick kisses her breasts as she moves, and pulls on nipples.
Both of them sweaty, hot, and full of passion.
Luca's Studio..
This song plays in Luca's Studio.
Luca is beyond angry at Frodi's "betrayal". How could she refuse going out with him?
As Luca takes out his anger on a canvas, splashing red and black paint all over it, he hears a door open.
He's not expecting anyone. Quickly, he grabs a knife from an unlocked drawer.
Luca: Who's there?! How did you get in?
Female Voice: I have my ways.. Luca.
Luca immediately recognizes that voice.
He walks out into the main part of his studio.. and sees a beautiful woman, with blonde hair. Her eyes pierce through his soul.
Woman: Well well well.. if it isn't Mr. Luca? Long time no see. Tell me.. how many people have you murdered recently?
Luca: Irene.. my god, is that really you?
Irene: In my beautiful.. soft flesh, yes.
Luca walks up to her, and touches her face.
Luca: How long has it been, since we last met?
Irene: Exactly? *looks up, as if to think* Exactly 365 days, 1 hour, 10 minutes, and 10 seconds.
Luca: After our last meeting, I thought we wouldn't see each other again. Until..
Irene: Until what? Until you kill my husband?
Luca: ...
Irene walks past Luca, and walks towards the window.
Irene: We both know how this was supposed to happen. But things have changed. For the both of us.
Quote
FLASHBACK
An unknown amount of years ago...
Italy..
Luca is pacing around an old rundown art studio in Italy. Light shines in from the balcony, with a beautiful view of the sea.
Irene sits by the balcony, painting.
Irene: So... this detective is onto you?
Luca: Yes! I'm panicking here! He thinks I did it!
Irene: ... Did you?
Luca: Irene, you're my fiancee! You are supposed to stand up for me!
Irene: ... I am. I am. Look Luca, this detective.. what's his name?
Luca: I don't know. Some British bastard. With a weird name. I think his name is.. Holmes. Something Holmes.
Irene: And this Something Holmes has dirt on you?
Luca: Yes! And he's going to turn me in! I don't know what to do!
Irene looks at Luca, turning away from her art.
Irene: Well, I could do something for you.
Luca: ... What? What could you do?
Luca: And you played me Irene. You damn well knew who Sherlock was. You were screwing him. Having an affair with him, behind my back. While we were engaged. And when you were talking with me, YOU WERE PREGNANT! With his child! So there I was, played like a fiddle. You pretended to "sleep" with the enemy. When in reality, you were falling for him. Even though you only slept with him originally because he was a detective, and you needed any help you could get with your adventurous endeavors, aka crimes.
Irene: Sherlock has always been a challenge for me. And yes, I have feelings for him. I have children with him. He got stabbed recently, thanks to Nick Zarano bringing him into a fight that Sherlock wasn't supposed to be apart of. It was at that moment, that I realized how much I care for him.
Luca: Yet every time we see each other, we wind up in bed. No matter if we're married or not.
Irene: Not this time.
Luca: Then why are you here?
Irene: Sherlock moved us to Sein Dor. He has an agency here now.
Luca: I know all about the little prick. I mean, why did you come here?
Irene: I wanted to see you, and clear the air.
Luca: Don't worry. I've moved on. I have a new queen.
Irene: I noticed. *looks at the bloody red paint splatters* I assume once again, it ain't good old Trina.
Luca: Pardon?
Irene: The red and black stains all over your shirt? You are obsessed again.
Luca: ...
Irene walks up to Luca, and touches his face.
Irene: Poor Luca. No one understands you, quite like I do. Both of us.. have our sins to live with. Both of us.. long for love. But we will never find it. Some advice? This time, don't let this obsession end like the other ones did. See you around.. Luca.
Irene walks out of the studio.
ONE HOUR LATER..
Sein Dor Hotel..
Nick and Frodi's Room..
Nick and Frodi lay in each other's arms, exhausted from their sexcapades.
Nick: That was amazing! You did a terrific job with all the planning as well. You never fail to surprise me. *plays with her hair*
Frodi smiles.
Frodi: I just wanted to plan an interesting, and fun evening together. Something romantic.
Nick: Well we definitely have to do this again. Maybe tomorrow night?
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
Nick jumps out of bed.
Frodi: Who could that be at this hour?
Voice from outside the door: Nick! It's Nolan! I know you are probably sleeping, but please get dressed and meet me at the hospital. We need to talk. Something has happened downstairs. Turn on the TV.
Frodi grabs the remote, and turns on the TV.
Frodi: *watches* .................. Why are they showing a younger you shooting someone named Nick Cotton?
Nick: Well, there goes the rest of our evening. I'll get dressed, see what the hell is going on, and be right back.
Later..
Hospital..
Nick gets off the elevator. He sees armed guards stationed by a door at the end of the hall. Nolan gets up from a chair, and runs over to Nick.
Nick: You want to tell me what the hell is going on here?
Nolan: *frantic* Look, I had no choice, but to work with this guy.
Nick: Nick Cotton. Yeah. I heard the report on the news.
Nick slaps Nolan.
Nolan: What the hell?!
Nick: You are lucky I didn't punch you! You turn over half of NolCorp, without telling your board members? You turn it over to NICK COTTON?! He's a mobster! They are saying he has a criminal record! And now, he probably thinks I tried to off him!
Nolan: This wasn't my choice Nick! Look, this.. Cotton, yes, he's into organized crime. But things are different now.
Nick: Different? I TURNED! I'm an enemy to these people!
Nolan: It's a business! There's a difference between organized crime criminals, and business criminals! They don't care about you!
Nick: Nolan, I'll tell you this.. I don't really want to know why the fuck you would turn over half your business to this son of a bitch, but I'll have to use my imagination. And what happened? Someone tries to off him, and frame me?
Nolan: If the shooter had killed Cotton, I would have been dancing. And from what I see, no. This wasn't a frame job. Why Cotton? If someone wanted to frame you, they could have killed anyone, and announced your name at the scene. Instead, this dude who looks like you, but a younger you, tried to kill Cotton. Just Cotton. He obviously isn't good at making friends.
Nick: He looked.. exactly like me?
Nolan nods.
Nolan: There are some slightly physical differences. And the age difference. But overall, yes.
Nick: ... This is too creepy. *walks down the hall slowly*
Nolan: Nick, we need to treat Cotton like a business partner. We can't make this worse than it is. At some point, I will tell you what is going on. But not here. Not with people around. I trust you Nick. Always have. And I hope you do the same. I won't let this harm NolCorp, or you.
Nolan hugs Nick, and Nick pats Nolan on the back.
Nick: Alright. I'll do my best to help out. I've dealt with people like him. I just wish you would have come to me beforehand. Maybe I could have handled it.
Nolan: ... If you mean, kill him.. no. I'm not going to put you in that situation Nick. I have this under control.
Nick looks down the hall at Cotton's room.
Nick: .. Under control? I'd hate to see the situation out of control. You've already fucked it up.
Nick walks into Cotton's room.
Cotton wakes up, and looks at Nick.
Nick Cotton: Well fuck me.. if it ain't Nicholas Fucking Zarano.
Nick: We haven't met.
Nick Cotton: Oh, but we've dealt with each other.
Nick looks strangely at Cotton.
Nick Cotton: I used to be in contact with the Leone's. A long long time ago, I might add. Then you started your own family.. and then you ratted all of them out, and turned state's evidence.
Nick: That didn't concern you.
Nick Cotton: Oh, don't worry Nicky. No hard feelings. So.. did you try to kill me?
Nick: Yes Cotton. I pulled out a gun in public, and tried to kill someone I don't even know. Oh, and I lost about twenty years. Yes, that was me.
Nick Cotton: Yeah, I figured it wasn't you. You wouldn't have been so sloppy. But I would be concerned, if I was you, with this evil twin of yours running about.
Nick: Why don't you mind your own business? And while you're at it.. stay out of Nolan's. I don't know what's going on between the two of you.. but.. I'm already getting a bad smell.
Nick Cotton: Ain't that sweet. What are you two? Queers or something?
Nick: Is this my moment to tell you to fuck off, or better yet.. go fuck yourself?
Nick Cotton: Heh. Let me give you a piece of advice Nicky. From one businessman, to another. Someone once told me, there are some wars you fight and some wars you walk away from. And my advice to you.. this isn't the fighting kind.
Nick: Are we done here?
Nick Cotton: Sure. You know, Nick, it's a multiple choice thing with you. 'Cause I can't tell if you're old-fashioned, you're paranoid, or just a fucking asshole. Oh, and since we're working together now at NolCorp... see you in the halls!
Nick gives Cotton a dirty look, and leaves the room.
NEXT DAY..
Wonderland Toy Shop..
Nick stands in front of the now almost-destroyed storefront.
Police investigators are walking around the shop, taking pictures, and collecting evidence.
Male Voice: Well look who it is! Nick!
Nick turns around, and sees Danny.
Nick: Danny!
The two men hug, and pat each other on the back.
Nick: Glad to see you back in your element. How's Sein Dor treating you?
Danny: I'm glad to be back with the rest of modern civilization. And Nolan is treating me fine, Mr. Big Shot. Congrats on the NolCorp position. But eh.. sorry for this.
Danny looks at the store.
Nick: Yeah, coming back to Sein Dor and seeing this wasn't a great moment. You working the case now?
Danny: Yeah. We're looking into one lead. For awhile, we had nothing. No signs of foul play. But then we found something.
Nick: What did you find?
Danny: Well Nick, even though you were an owner of the place, I can't give you crucial case information til we check it out further.
Nick: Come on Danny! It's me you're talking to.
Danny: ... Fine. Come with me.
Danny leads Nick to a police cruiser. Danny opens the trunk, and Nick looks inside.
Nick: ... What the fuck is this?
Inside the trunk, are multiple feet of wires, multiple cameras, and other wireless surveillance equipment.
Danny: Normally in this situation, I'd ask if you have any enemies. But we already have your list of people that want to either kill you, or fatally wound you.
Nick: Where was all this..?
Danny: Outside your shop. One of our detectives spotted a camera. Whatever sick freak did this, was clearly trying to watch you and your wife.
Nick: The Illuminati.
Danny: No. That's what we originally thought as well. Here's where the investigating comes in. The cameras were wirelessly transmitting data via your shop's wifi connection. Whoever did this, hacked your WPA address, and was using YOUR connection to send the video to a remote server. That server, isn't located internationally. It's right here in Sein Dor. So that could rule out the Illuminati. We pinged the address, and discovered it's located somewhere in the city. But it will take some time for us to nail the exact location of the server.
Nick: ...
Danny: Whoever did this, will face charges. And my guess is.. we find this freak, we could find a bomber. After all, his or hers cameras probably caught the crime.
Later, Nick heads home. He only went out to get some groceries.
Hours later..
Luca's Studio..
Danny walks into the studio. Luca comes walking out of the back room.
Luca: Can I help you?
Danny: Detective, Sein Dor Police. I have a warrant here, to search this building.
Luca: *worried* Uh.. why?
Danny: Cameras were setup at the Wonderland Toy Shop in town. Only thing is.. the owners didn't set them up. Some creep did. And those cameras, pinged to a computer right in this building.
Luca: Really? Uh well, that's strange. I don't know what cameras you are talking about.
Danny approaches Luca.
Danny:Really? Because the way I look at it.. this is your studio.. is it not? And you are the only person here.. are you not? So then.. somewhere, in here.. must be a computer. Yours. Am I right?
Luca: ... You are trespassing. I suggest you leave.
Danny: I have a warrant. Now where's the computer?
Luca: ...
Danny: *lowers voice* You know, working with me will make this go alot smoother.
GUNSHOT
Luca jumps. Danny drops to his knees, and crawls behind a stack of canvases. He's been shot in the back.
Standing at the entrance to the studio, with a gun, is Irene.
Irene: Hello detective. Luca, be a dear, and take his gun.
Danny, weak, has left his gun on the floor. Quickly, before Danny can grab it, Luca snatches it.
Irene walks over to a badly bleeding, and heavy breathing Danny, and points her gun at him coldly.
Danny: Who.. who the hell are you?
Irene: They call me Irene. And aside from what it says on my record, my last name is not Adler. Nor is it really Holmes. Only by law. You see.. my real last name, isn't of any importance to you. You, great detective.. came barking up the wrong tree.
Danny: But.. *coughs* I just was.. released..
Irene: From captivity. I know. Besides reading the papers.. *leans down, in front of Danny* I was there dear. I'm the woman who fed you. You and those other poor misfits. Some call me crazy. I call myself, a member of the Illuminati. And you, have crossed a line. You came here investigating my friend. And that, can't be forgiven.
Luca: Irene! No!
Irene fires the gun two more times. Fatally wounding Danny. He dies seconds later.
Irene looks at Luca.
Irene: I did you a favor Luca. Imagine if I wasn't here to save your ass. Again. Now be a dear, and help me drag his body out of here, and clean up, before more show up. Also, destroy that damn hard-drive.
Luca grabs Irene by the arm.
Luca: You killed a cop! In my studio!
Irene: And?
Luca pushes Irene against a wall, and holds her there. The gun falls from Irene's hand, and lands on the floor.
Luca: DNA evidence Irene! And what? You don't think they will notice that their lead cop is missing?
Irene: I saved your little sorry perverted ass from going to prison. Or worse. Dying at the hands of a jealous Nicholas Zarano. So I suggest you work with me, and also delete all the naked photos you probably have of his wife.
Luca stares at Irene, still holding onto her neck.
Irene: We are corrupt souls, aren't we?
Luca: ...
Irene: ...
They stare into each others eyes, feeling each others tense breath.
In a surprise moment, Luca kisses Irene passionately, still holding onto her throat. They french kiss madly for a few seconds.
Luca rips open Irene's top, and Irene moans loudly. She pushes Luca onto a table, and they rip each others clothes off, as a bloody Danny lays on the floor.
Irene bites Luca's ear.
Irene: Luca, remind me of why what we once were. Fuck me Luca.. fuck me. Fuck me, before your wife, or my husband catch us.
It's clear how psychotic Irene is, and how bad of an influence she has been on Luca.
Minutes into sex, as Luca thrusts himself in and out of Irene on the table, he begins to yell.
Luca: My queen! At last, I have you my queen..
Irene grabs Luca's hand, and bites down on his finger.
Luca: AAAAARGH!!!!!!!!!!!!
Luca falls out of Irene, and lands on the floor. Irene jumps off the table, and stands ontop of him.
Irene: Your queen?! Would that be.. that little whore? Frodi? Isn't that her name? The hobbit whore?
Luca grabs his bleeding finger.
Luca: You.. stay away from her!
Irene: Oh, don't worry. I will. Besides.. I already have something. Something that could be useful. Maybe Trina.. Frodi.. anyone. Maybe everyone would like to see it.
Luca watches in horror, as a naked Irene walks across the room, and picks up a small pink pen. He knows what it is. A pen camera! She beat him at his own camera game! She recorded them having sex!
Irene: Funny how great technology is nowadays. A pen, and a camera, in one! Marvelous. Now, I suggest you be a good boy, and help me take care of Detective Dead Man here. Because, if you don't.. this footage will arrive at Trina's doorstep. As for Frodi.. I'd love to pay her a visit as well. We could have a nice.. girl talk.
Sein Dor Docks..
The man who shot at Nick Cotton, the Nick Zarano younger look-alike, walks at a fast pace through the docks. He turns, and heads into an abandoned warehouse. Located upstairs, above the warehouse, is a safehouse. A small apartment with a view overlooking the city. The man heads into the apartment, and throws his keys on a table.
He arms the computerized security system, and heads into the kitchen.
Man: I'm back. It's done.
The man opens the refrigerator in the kitchen, and takes out a bottle of beer.
He pops it open, and drinks.
Suddenly, a woman's voice is heard from the other room.
Woman: Did you kill him?
Man: I'm not sure. I think we'll find out on the news tonight. I think I made the headlines. *drinks*
The man walks out of the kitchen, and into the other room. We see a woman with long black hair sitting on the settee.. but we can't see her face. Yet.
Man: I fear I have broken the vow I made to myself. The vow that I would not become an executioner.
Woman: We should have never come here. This place.. changed you. Already it has brought too many memories back. You should have listened to your friends.
The man walks over to the window, and looks out.. making sure no one is spying on them. He looks insecure.
Man: I don't have the luxury of friends. *angry* They told me there was nothing out there, nothing to fear. But the night my parents were murdered I caught a glimpse of something. I've looked for it ever since. I went around the world, searched in all the shadows. And there is something out there in the darkness, something terrifying, something that will not stop until it gets revenge... Me. And tonight, when I saw him.. when I saw that.. that.. that murderer.. I lost all self-control. I came here to do a job.. and I plan on finishing it. Nick Cotton murdered my parents in cold blood. And I will not rest until he faces judgement for his sins.
The woman turns silent.
Man: *changes subject* Are you liking Sein Dor?
Woman: It's.. okay. I stayed in most of the day. I looked up the woman you asked me to, online. You're right. She does look similar to me, when she was younger. Except she's a hobbit, and I'm human. And the man she is with.. he's pretty handsome.
Man: And I'm not?
Woman: ...
Man: Remember why we're here. No distractions.
The man walks in front of the settee, and we see the woman's face.
Woman: No distractions. *sighs*
On the table, is the woman's pink cellphone. On the screen, is a picture of Nick Zarano.
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