Bitter Accusations.

She sipped her tea as I spooned some honey in mine. She smiled at me sympathetically, then began.

"My dear child, I've heard so much about you. Your run-in with Sebastian Doran, befriending Basil of Baker Street, and the impression you've made on society."

She frowned.

"But you being here troubles me dear girl. I fear for your safety."

I played along.

"From who, Mrs. Dalton?"

"My good for nothing brother is who. I've heard rumors that he "changed" after meeting you. I will try to spare your feelings, but child no one can change him. He's evil. A monster."

I lowered my eyes.

"Madam, I don't believe I changed him. But I disagree with you that the idea is impossible. He could change his actions just as easily as you or I, and he did. I don't know much about the childhood you two shared, but I do know from certain bits that it was hard. Your relationship may harbor bitter feelings, but he has never hurt anyone in the name of evil since that night two years ago when he had his last quarrel with Basil."

She made a noise.

"I beg to differ, dear girl. I have all the evidence I need, experience. I lived with him for sixteen years before he ran away from home to college and becoming a professor. But I know he is an abusive brute."

I smiled.

"All brothers tend to be rough with sisters, older or younger."

She smiled.

"That may be true, but with James it's different. I suffered emotional and physical abuse from him. Bruises all over me."

Tears poured down her face. I kept my eyes to the floor, or else I knew I'd strike her for her lies. I was on the couch closest to the hallway, and knew that he had cracked the door open so he could listen. Sneak, I thought to myself, smiling. She continued, half whispering through her cries.

"He's so manipulative darling, I'd hate to see a beautiful girl like you get hurt. No wonder he's never married."

She paused, and then for some odd reason, overstepped her boundaries.

"I bet he'd still be a virgin if not for the starlets and strumpets he lures into his bed."

I closed my eyes in embarrassment, putting my hand over my forehead. I could hear a gasp down the hall. I'd heard the same sound when he'd spit out his tea when Pete had teased him, and I knew the same incident had just occurred with the brandy. Martha stopped.

"What was that?"

I smiled, bringing my hand down and resting my chin in it.

"Probably the cat. She's been eating too much grass lately."

Martha frowned.

"There's another thing I don't understand, that cat. It could be living in the queen's palace right now, but instead it chooses to live in this disgusting nest. It's as if it doesn't know it's pure bred. So odd, but I guess we'll never know why."

She finished her tea and took a bite of a crumpet. I decided I'd been silent long enough.

"Quite the contrary Madam. I know exactly why Felicia stays here."

She smiled.

"Oh, do you? Enlighten me before my carriage arrives."

I set my cup down, folding my hands in my lap.

"She stays here for the same reason all of us come here, your brother. You may hate him with all your heart, and that's fine. But please do not expect us to hate him as well for the sake of your own feelings, Mrs. Dalton. I've struggled through a lot in my short sixteen years. I've suffered from depression and anxiety, as well as many family sorrows. And it is to my knowledge that my sudden and dramatic change of attitude is due to the fact that I am able to come here. My friends here support me as any true friend should, and no one more so than Ratigan. He has helped me build up my confidence more than he knows, and I would not be here today if I felt at all threatened by him. And neither would that Persian cat sitting out there." I pointed my finger at the entrance.

Martha was fuming.

"Yes well, if that's how you feel, so be it. I guess I won't feel sorry then when you end up dead."

And then as a final gesture of anger, she flipped over the coffee table, breaking the china set and spilling sugar, cream, and tea all over the rug. I gasped as she ran down the sewer and up the pulley. I made my way to my portal, where I thought up things to clean up the mess.

As I came back into the hall, Ratigan was coming out of his room to verify the mess he thought he'd heard. I shuddered.

"Lord, what a wretched woman."

He smiled.

"Any other thoughts on her?"

I looked at him.

"Attention seeker, compulsive liar, angry, and all around mentally disturbed."

He cackled as I cleaned up. He picked up the shattered remains of the china and threw them away. When I finished and had done away with the cleaning supplies, I flopped down on the couch where he was sitting. He took my hand, the look of insanity gone.

"Thank you."

I smiled.

"I suppose you knew I was listening?"

I nodded.

"You would have done better just standing out in the hall."

He giggled, and then sighed.

"Many years have passed since we last saw each other, and she's still the same Martha. BAH! I never laid my hands on her. At the very least I'd say it was the other way around."

I frowned.

"What could make her so hateful towards you, other than your past with crime?"

He shook his head.

"Pride, Grace. None of her accusations are true, so she has to invent ways to get back at me for destroying her credibility in society. Too bad she wasn't wanted anyway. A fake destined as a social climber."

I laughed, and then looked thoughtful.

"What?"

"Just wondering what it would be like for a boy to live with three older sisters, especially a manipulative and jealous one."

He smiled.

"Well, isn't it obvious? Look how I turned out."

He lowered his eyes. I patted his hand.

"You just went through a phase that's all. And anyone who matters and knows it is forgiving."

He smiled thoughtfully. I had said that to make him feel better, but in my mind something stirred inside me. What if Martha had been right? We sat quiet for a long time, worn out by Martha's long and agonizing visit. Ratigan hardly ever talked about his childhood to any of us, and seeing Martha made me realize why.

Haunting Doubts.

That night I couldn't sleep. I tossed and turned in bed. I thought back to my first week in the sewer that year ago, where I'd been held as somewhat of a prisoner, but with privileges I thought at first Ratigan wasn't capable of giving. I remembered one particular night in the sewer. It was actually the night before Basil came to rescue me.

I was sitting in the bar with Pete and the guys, when Abe got exceedingly drunk. He went on and on about previous crimes they'd had with Ratigan "back in 'he day". Oddly enough, he didn't slur his words, but it was clear he wasn't thinking. He went on to tell me a tale that would haunt me forever, much as I loved Ratigan now.

"Hey Pete, remember Basil's wife?"

My eyes had widened. Pete kicked Abe in the shin, but he wouldn't stop. He looked at me, his eyes glazed over from the booze.

"Oh yeah. Elizabeth Starling. Ratigan found her penniless in the street and took her in. Had a soft spot for her, I think he actually loved her. Anyway, she ran away and found Basil. They fell in love, which of course made the boss mad."

He went on to tell how Ratigan learned of Basil and Elizabeth's engagement, and came up with a plan to marry Elizabeth in front of beaten and defenseless Basil.

"He even dragged in the vicar to make it legal."

Pete just shook his head as Abe continued on. There was a huge struggle, Basil telling Elizabeth how they'd sworn to defeat Ratigan together. At one point Ratigan made a light gesture to have Chauncey shoot Basil, but Elizabeth caught the small move. She jumped in front of Basil, and was hit. She died that night, but not before Basil had the vicar marry them on her deathbed.

I had gotten up from my chair, pouring my water down the drain. I could feel Pete's eyes on me as tears streamed down my face while I leaned against the bar sink. Damn him, I had thought to myself. Damn you Ratigan. Abe hadn't finished yet. He recalled once again the killing of Doctor Josephine Bell, and as he voiced the gruesome details, I'd had enough. I ran down the stairs to the sewer and into my cell. I covered myself with my cloak and sobbed into my pillow for hours on end. I don't know why, but for some reason I felt someone watching me. After a while I remember hearing raised voices in the main sewer, but even as I listened I didn't care. Basil's love was dead, my friend had lost the love of his life and it was all because of Ratigan.

"Damn it Pete, why did he do that?" I heard Ratigan say.

"He was drunk off his ass, I couldn't stop him."

"Listen to her, now he's got her scared to death."

That last phrase struck me as odd, but it wasn't until later that I found out Ratigan had found a soft spot for me too.

The next day I had crept up to the bar, and onto the stage. I sat down on the bench, and wiping a tear away, played every sad love song I knew. Running through me was the silent fear again. He hurt Elizabeth and Josephine, why not me? He'd lied and tormented just about anyone, so why not me? My eyes had focused on the movement of the keys, up and down, as anger and fear came into my mind in and out. Then I heard the feet.

I'd known it was Ratigan, so I pretended not to notice. I kept playing "Where You Are" as he made his way towards the piano. He stopped by the side and put his hand down on the massive instrument. He waited till I finished and then sighed.

"I'm sorry for what you heard last night."

I grunted.

"What do you care?"

He sighed, and then began to walk away as I kept my eyes on him. All at once he stopped, and said these words before he walked out of the bar.

"Because I can."

It had taken him writing the letter to realize those three words had meant an apology for that past night and what was to come of me that night with Basil and them. But I still didn't know.

Recalling that terrible ordeal in the sewer was enough to haunt my dreams anyway. I went to Ratigan's living room, where I cuddled in a chair. Not long after I settled in, Pete came into the room.

"Hey there girly. What's wrong?"

I smiled sadly.

"Just thinking."

He sat down close to me on the couch.

"Oh yeah? What about?"

I sighed.

"Oh, just thinking about why he's done some of the things he's done. I think Martha explains half of it."

He smiled. I knew he could tell what I was thinking about.

"You're thinking about that night in the sewer aren't ya? With Abe?"

I nodded; lowering my eyes to the floor so he couldn't see tears welling up in my eyes. He took my hand.

"It's okay Gracie. Guilt racks his brain. I know it does, everything he's done. It haunts him everyday of his life, and I know he'll never stoop that low again, because of the kindness that's been shown to him now." He continued.

"Elizabeth was like another Irene, he admired her. He's confided in me that he really didn't love her, that it was just a power struggle with Basil. Just the thought of her with his worst enemy made him sick with rage. Not saying that justifies it. But look what happened Grace? He killed Chauncey. He didn't want her to die. And I know when he saw her embrace Basil he knew he'd lost anyway."

I nodded, a tear falling down my cheek. He smiled.

"You wanna know something? He'd die if he knew I told you. But that night when you cried, he stood by your cell for the longest time looking at you. When he saw me come, he turned around with his chin in his hand. I saw a tear sliding down his face. I knew then that he really cared about you. And after you left the next night scolding him, he went into his room. You could hear him crying Gracie. After all that time, all his guilt built up, and he let it out because he couldn't bare to hurt you and he had. You could hear him asking everyone for forgiveness, his parents, his sisters, Elizabeth, Josephine, Basil, Olivia and Flaversham, right down to everyone he'd ever killed or hurt. But you know whose name he said the most? Yours. He loves you Grace, like a daughter figure. And because of you and how you've helped everyone forgive him, his guilt and anger hasn't consumed him. He's moving on, because he has everyone's support now. Even after what he's put Basil through, the old chap found a way to forgive him. I don't even know if I could do that being in the detective's shoes."

"He did what he did because he was so consumed in anger and the lust for power, but you sparked something in him Grace. You made the light turn on, and that's why he does what he does now. That's why he's changed."

Tears kept falling down my cheeks.

"But what if I didn't help him Pete? What if he goes back to the way he was? I mean, Martha accused him of rape, for God sake's. What if that's true? And he got this look...this evil look that made me think he'd murder us all right then and there, like he would snap any second. What if we lose him?" He took my hand.

"That day will never come, Gracie. I know it."I smiled, wiping away my tears. But I wasn't convinced. Pete may be close to Ratigan, but he didn't know what went on in his head. I had a fitful night's sleep, with dreams about Elizabeth and Basil. Doubt plagued my mind. Would I lose the friend I knew?

The next morning I was still shaken up. For the longest time I had tried to put Ratigan's past behind me, but I felt I couldn't do it any longer. He had been ruthless, cruel, and twisted. I knew that men would always get into it with each other, that they always got into fights and died out of pride. But the thought of him meddling with women sickened me. Had he really been that kind of man I feared in my world? That man that used women as pawns for evil? I shivered under my covers as I could hear stirring in the barrel. Pete had come from his flat to raid Ratigan's kitchen, and I knew Irene would be here soon.

How could he have plotted something so despicable? I knew he was deranged at the time, but what if he was just hiding it now? Then again, it was Basil, and I knew that both would do anything to make the other one crack back then. I felt a deeper sense of respect towards Basil since that night when I'd learned about Elizabeth. He'd forgiven Ratigan for not only the death of Dr. Josephine Bell, but also the death of his beloved fiancé/wife. He'd actually let go enough to become his old archenemy's good friend. But now I wasn't sure. Would he always remain the way he was now? I lay there for a while, doubt creeping up on me. Could I always trust him? A tear rolled down my cheek as I thought of the possibility of losing him to the evil that had once consumed him. I drifted off a little longer, and woke up with the feeling I wasn't alone. I rolled over and saw Ratigan sitting on the edge of my bed. He smiled. I yawned and stretched, then lowered my eyes when I saw his expression. I could never get anything past him, just like he couldn't with me.

"Sweetie, what's wrong?"

A tear came down my cheek. I wiped it away quickly and averted my eyes.

"Oh, nothing to get worried about."

"I think it is."

I sighed, not wanting to hurt his feelings.

"I've got a thick skin, I can take it." He said, trying to make me laugh.

I hesitated, but his gaze finally made me drag it out.

"I'm just worried. You got that look last night when you were with Martha. That evil glare that I saw you give Basil that night. It just scared me, thinking about your past. About some of the things she said"

He smiled at me sympathetically.

"You're not sure if you can always trust me?"

I lowered my eyes, tears streaming down my face again. Why was I so emotional? He moved closer to me and took me in a hug.

"Oh Gracie, Gracie. I knew even you would have your doubts. Everyone does in a situation like this. But don't you see? You helped me. I'm not that nasty villain anymore, nor did I ever lure women to me." He raised my chin up so our eyes met.

"I can tell that statement she made bothered you, especially with what's happened in your family. But I'll have you know I would never stoop that low, darling. How could I, after meeting so many intelligent and strong women like you and Irene? Elizabeth and Joe's deaths will haunt me forever, especially because I'm friends with Basil now. I could never hurt another woman as long as I live. And I'll never snap."

I averted my eyes; I knew he'd heard Pete and I. He took my chin in his hand again.

"Even walls have ears, my dear. But in answer to your worries, I promise you that I'll always be the man you know. I'll never change, never go back."

I threw my arms around his neck as tears streamed down my face.

"I just don't want to lose you."

He kissed my hair.

"I swear on my life you never will."

I shut my eyes in relief. I had to hear it from him, and now that I had, all my fears went out the window. He smiled as I wiped my tears, kissing my cheek, and then left me to dress. I came out to see everyone smiling and laughing with him. I never doubted him again.

Peace With The Queen.

Our faith and confidence in Ratigan had begun to rub off on society. He was invited to parties and social events, and although many still seemed uneasy, they were polite when they saw the evil glare that had always seemed to twinkle in his eyes was gone. Basil and I looked at each other astounded when we were at the exclusive celebration of the anniversary of Queen Moustoria's 52ed year in rein.

"May I take your cape, Professor?" a guard asked our friend.

We all had thought that his past would have mattered in royal affairs, but for some reason he'd received an invitation. I took notice the whole night that she kept her eyes on Ratigan, watching his every move.

I had danced with every older man I knew, as well as the younger ones like Christian. Oscar was a very hyper, making him even more enjoyable, and Basil was in a good mood. He twisted both Irene and me around the dance floor laughing at ease. After I took a moment to catch my breath and have a drink of sparkling grape juice, I heard a familiar chuckle, and I smiled as Ratigan leaned against a table beside me.

"I must say, I've never seen the man so relaxed."

He pointed his glass in Basil's direction as he twirled a little girl around the floor, crouching a little in his tux to be on her level. We both smiled.

" Now even the Queen can't say he's arrogant and haughty to children," I said as I took a sip of my drink.

Ratigan chuckled.

"I believe you're right my dear."

He sighed. I could tell he felt uneasy, being in the very palace that years before he had tried to take over. As he set his glass down, I did the same and took his hand.

"I think it only fair to show them your sense of humor as well."

He narrowed his eyebrows in confusion, then laughed when I motioned to the dance floor.

"I'm afraid dancing is one thing I've never mastered."

I giggled.

"As I recall, you did quite a little number a few years back when you were plotting the Flaversham case."

He blushed nervously.

"You know that was one mistake they made in the movie."

I shook my head.

"Quite the contrary, and I've got witnesses to prove it."

He laughed, blushing.

"Damn that Pete, when did he tell you?"

I smiled.

"Oh, one night when he was a little tipsy."

He chuckled.

"Drunks."

I smiled, tugging his gloved hand.

"Come on, live a little."

He smiled as I led him onto the floor. The orchestra started up a waltz, and I curtsied as he bowed in custom of the dance. We ended up right next to Basil and Irene, and she chuckled.

"Leave it to Grace to break your fright of dancing!"

Ratigan chuckled, giving her a defensive look.

"I was never frightened, I just knew I'd be out of place, dancing with law-abiding citizens."

He laughed at his own joke. He may regret everything till the day he died, but he always looked back on it with somewhat of a humor. We all giggled as he twirled me around the floor. It turned out that the waltz was the last of the evening, so it went on forever. We laughed, and gabbed between the four of us as we tried to keep up with the music. Finally when it was over, I fell into Ratigan's hug laughing.

"I knew you could do it!"

He laughed, and then I caught her gaze. Queen Moustoria was sitting on her throne, watching the dancing, and a peculiar smile was on her face, a smile directed in Ratigan's and my direction. The dance floor cleared and dinner was served. I was placed with our crowd of Basil, Dawson, Oscar, Irene, and Ratigan. We laughed, exchanging old stories and funny memories.

After dessert, the musicians in the balconies above the great ballroom blew their trumpets in salute of the Queen. She was seated with the royal family, and gracefully made her way up to the stage where her lavish thrown stood tall and regal. She was older to be sure, but still quite charming. White fur, short, like Mrs. Judson, I thought to myself smiling. She was dressed in an elegant evening gown topped off with her cape trimmed in the usual style of royalty. We all stood with respect, clapping. She curtsied.

"Thank you, my loyal subjects of England. It gives me great pleasure to see so many familiar faces to help me celebrate my fifty-second year as queen."

Cheers erupted through the room, and she blushed.

"Tonight, as by tradition, I honor those who have done service to our dear country."

More applause. She motioned for a guard, and he came up to the stage carrying a box, which I assumed was filled with medals. She named off several individuals, Inspector Vole being one of them as always. Basil clapped, but I could almost hear him gritting his teeth. I giggled. Finally she called up my dear friends Basil and Dawson, "for helping keep our dear country safe from crime, and for cracking the case when all hope seemed lost." I saw Vole's face flush, and I cheered for Basil's short victory. As Basil and Dawson walked down with their medals pinned to their tuxes, Basil smoothed back his hair in an arrogant manner. Irene and I giggled. We thought all was over, but the Queen had more up her sleeves.

"This next medal is dedicated to not a citizen, but a friend of England to be sure. Time may separate her from us, but we all cannot deny the help she has given to society. She helped with the capture of Sebastian Doran, after enduring a fretful night in his lair. She has proven true to her friends, and by my judgment, to London. I give this medal to Miss Grace Schenck."

She smiled in my direction, and Ratigan squeezed my hand as I got up to go to the stairs. I curtsied, and she brought my head up with her chin, so we were eye to eye. I thanked her, and she whispered as she pinned the token onto my blue satin evening gown, "You've helped us more than you know dear."

She winked at me, and I smiled, though I was confused. We curtsied once more, and I walked down the stairs as cheers and applause once again filled the room. Now I was sure it was over, but something in the Queen's face had told me otherwise. She moved forward on the stage a little, cleared her throat quietly, and spoke.

"Ladies and Gentleman, there is indeed another cause for rejoicing. For many years our city was plagued by fear and terror, and now it seems much of that has stopped. Why? Because of the courage and strength of one man's character. Because, when all of us judged him for his past, he found the courage to bring himself up again. With inspiration, and support from a few friends,"

Now I understood, and tears started to well up in my eyes.

"He has once again returned to the man he once was; a genius, a gentleman, and a friend to all of England. I would like to take this moment, to recognize this man for his strength and sheer sense of will power. I personally have forgiven him for all crimes he stands accused of, for I have watched him over the past year, and it is with great joy that I see the man London was proud to know once again with not hatred, but love in his soul. Please recognize, ladies and gentlemen, Professor James Ratigan."

Tears were now streaming down my face, as were Irene's and all our companions at the table. Ratigan himself was astounded. He could barely walk up the stairs, as he bowed to the Queen. We were close enough that we could hear him whisper "I thank you for your forgiveness and kindness, Your Majesty. I'm overwhelmed with gratitude. May God strike me down if I ever turn on you" She smiled as he stood up, and she let him kiss her hand. It was the most amazing site I'd ever seen. Pictures of her screaming at him those years ago as a traitor flew through my head, and now she had forgiven him in front of the whole party. Irene squeezed my hand, tears streaming down her face. Now the social crowds gathered, admiring the medals and talking about the night, but although I smiled and was polite, I could barely make sense of everything. Not only had the Queen been gracious enough to recognize me, she had forgiven my dear friend with sincerity and assurance. When Irene poked me on the arm to go, I was still dumb struck. She handed me my shawl as we went into the carriage to Ratigan's home. I gave Basil, Oscar, and Dawson all hugs, but was still in a daze. Irene laughed as I sat between her and Ratigan.

"Shocked you got a medal dear heart?"

I smiled, looking in Ratigan's direction.

"No Irene, just overjoyed at the outcome of the ceremony."

Ratigan smiled and kissed my head. He chuckled.

"I guess even Queen Moustoria had to give in sometime. I'm still surprised though, given the fact how stubborn she is."

Irene giggled.

"Traitor!"

He cackled, as did we all. I decided when we got back to the lair that I'd stay the night before going back through the portal. Irene stayed for quite some time, and then caught a carriage home. I put on my nightgown and set it on the quest room nightstand, which had practically become my room away from home. I wrapped myself in my housecoat and sat down to read. I stayed up for a long time, and I knew someone was up. I heard a plunk, plunk as Fidget stumbled to his perch where the handle to the barrel was. I laughed quietly, never understanding how he managed to get up there with only one leg and a broken wing. I stopped dead when I heard a laugh coming from the living room.

"Fidget, just crawl in the other guest room. It's obvious you're too drunk to sleep up there."

Being the nosy one I was I peeked my head out the door. I could see Ratigan's head over the top of his favorite armchair, a brandy in one hand and a cigarette holder in the other. I yawned, and the head turned.

"Yet another night owl."

I blushed as he giggled. Inside I laughed. He wore a smoking jacket similar to Basil's and indeed he looked like a darker Hugh Hefner. Fidget stumbled into the room and plopped down next to me on the couch. I moved away from him.

"You smell like a bad mix of beer and cheap perfume."

Ratigan cackled.

"So what else is new?"

Fidget looked peeved. I laughed.

"Ah, come on. Tomorrow morning you'll have such a hang over you'll forget all insults."

He glared at me, then fainted. At first we both thought he was joking, and then I realized it was true. I ran to the kitchen and got cold water, flinging little bits of it on his face. I then slapped him so hard both Ratigan and I jumped, then laughed as the bat came too. He grumbled, then made a sound I knew too well. I took him out to the main part of the sewer where he vomited.

"Ah Fidget." I said as I shut my eyes in disgust.

"You've got to stop."

He wiped his mouth as I gave him water to wash out the vile. I pointed to the mess.

"You're picking that up. There are cleaning supplies in the cell, now go."

I pointed to the cell where I'd been held prisoner almost three years ago, and he stalked off like a pouting child. I came back into the living room, brushing my hands off like I'd just finished a difficult job. Ratigan took a puff of his cigarette, and laughed.

"No sympathy for him, eh?"

I sat down by his chair on the couch.

"I have no sympathy for alcoholics, period."

He giggled, holding up his brandy glass. I propped a pillow on the arm of the couch and lay down.

"You're still in shock about tonight aren't you?"

He looked at my curiously.

"How can you tell?"

"Being with you and Basil, I've learned my fair share of deductive reasoning. You always smoke when you're agitated or nervous, and the brandy calms you down to a lighter mood."

He cackled.

"That's my girl. And how bout you and your medal of honor?"

I laughed.

"In total shock as well, though sleep or lack of it is my addiction."

He smiled as he took a drink.

"How can you drink that stuff anyway? It's nasty."

He looked concerned.

"How do you know?"

I smirked as he gave me a disapproving look.

"Grace Catherine, tell me."

I laughed, as he kept his eyes on me.

"All right, Pete made me take a sip once, and I spit it back out because it was so gross. It hit him back in the face."

He laughed, imagining the scene.

"Lovely manners."

I smiled.

"Hey, he doesn't care. I'm just another one of the gang to him."

He laughed, then got a look in his eyes.

"But to me you're not."

I stared at him curiously for a while as he finished the brandy and cigarette. He set the glass and holder down, then noticed I wasn't moving my gaze.

"What am I then?"

He got up from his chair and moved my legs so he could sit by me. I moved closer to him, and he put his arms around me.

"A dear friend and the nearest thing to a daughter I'll ever know."

I smiled as he kissed my hair. In my heart I knew he was right.

Starling of Baker Street.

The months slowly passed, I entered my junior year of high school, and finally found the right guy! Everyone was excited for me, oddly enough even Ratigan. On homecoming night he took me into a hug and whispered "Knock 'im dead darling!" I laughed, and spent the whole night on a high, knowing that they were all standing in the shadows watching me and my boy dance. October quickly faded into November, and we found ourselves sitting around Ratigan's fire on the 6th as the wind whipped through the afternoon like a wicked spell. Basil wasn't among us, and I could see in Ratigan's eyes something was wrong.

"What is it?"

Ratigan sighed, but just shook his head as he wiped a tear away. Irene answered for him.

"Basil's wedding anniversary."

I lowered my head in respect.

"To Elizabeth."

Irene nodded.

"He'll be out there where she's buried all damn day freezing himself."

I was surprised to find Ratigan walk out of the room, tears streaming down his face. Irene and I left him alone for a while, but I couldn't stand it any longer. I slowly made my way to his bedroom where I found him sitting on the side, sniffling like a child. I sat by him and leaned my head against his shoulder.

"It's all my fault Gracie. If I hadn't been such a bastard, she could still be alive. She could be right there with him."

I rubbed his side.

"I didn't really love her, just admired her. And like any twisted man wanted to have power over a beautiful creature like her. And when it didn't work and she went with Basil, I snapped..." He trailed off. "As always."

Now a tear fell down my cheek, for I felt for him the bitterness he was suffering from. His past would always haunt him, and none greater than about her. The years before I'd never been with them on this day to witness this sad anniversary, but I always knew. He buried his face in his hands.

"And now he's become one of my greatest friends, but I've put so much sorrow in his soul I don't know how he keeps a straight face. Why does he never snap? Why doesn't he just shoot me and send me to Hell where I really belong? I may be better now, but good deeds don't make up for the bad ones."

He stopped, heaving. I rubbed his shoulder.

"No they don't, but they do restore people's faith in you. Basil is your friend now because he knows you weren't all there those years ago. You were consumed by evil."

He shook his head.

"But it was my choice."

"But it became so big that it wasn't a matter of choice anymore. You fell into its trap. People do everyday, Ratigan. I've seen it. But you did something not every one can do. You came out of it. You became the old guy everyone knew. Basil knows your sorrow and your guilt. He understands. That's why he's your friend now. Because he believes you came out of the darkness and into the light. You became a better person, as you are right now."

He slowly slid his hands down his face, sighing.

"You told me after Martha left that we all have our doubts. Most of them are self-doubts. But you can't believe them because look around you. You have so many people backing you up, and your old arch enemy is one of them."

He astounded me by turning and bringing me into a hard hug. I could feel his tears fall onto my head, and my heart reached out for him.

"It's okay. You're your old self again. No more evil, no more suffering. It's okay."

I pushed away from him and brushed his cheek. He took my hand and held it there, tears falling down his face. It was the last thing I would have expected from Professor James Ratigan, but I was glad he no longer hid his emotions. He smiled, still holding my hand.

"You know something? You're the best thing that's happened to me."

I smiled, and hugged him. He pulled me away.

"I never thought someone could set my heart free, but you did. Thank you Gracie. Thank you."

"Anytime."

I said as we both brushed away tears, then laughed at our overflowing emotions. He got a look in his eyes.

"I wish I could see her grave. Tell her myself how much I'm sorry."

I smiled at him.

"Maybe you can."

"How? That's the one thing Basil would never allow."

"Have you ever asked him?"

He sighed.

"You got me there sweetheart."

I took his hand.

"Come, let's go to his flat. We'll see if he's back."

He gave me a sad smile as he put his top hat on and handed me my cloak. Irene waved her hand when we asked if she'd like to go.

"I can't see him unglued. It'll just make him embarrassed. You know how egotistical he gets around me."

I smiled at her. She took my hand.

"But do give her my regards." I smiled.

"I will Irene."

She followed us to go back to her flat, and Ratigan and I took the dirigible to 221 1/2 Baker Street. He was very quiet as he moved the foot petals, and I watched the chilly sky with wonder. When we reached his flat, Ms. Judson was polite as always to Ratigan, but cautious. I asked if we could speak in private and she agreed. We left Ratigan in the living room as we shut the kitchen door, where it smelled of cheese crumpets and tea. We sat at the table.

"Ms. Judson, I have a question to ask you, and I need your complete honesty. I understand your feelings towards Ratigan, and he does too. But he finally has cracked about Elizabeth. He wants to apologize to her at her grave. He needs to mourn her. Do you think Basil would agree?"

She sighed.

"It's hard to tell Darling. As much as they've become comrades, that is one thing Basil will never let leave of in his heart. That and Ms. Bell."

I took her hand.

"I can't imagine how this is for you. This whole situation."

She smiled at me.

"Darling, I may have my bitter memories of him, but I know now he's different. Something sparked in him, and I believe if the Queen made peace with him, we all should."

I smiled at her.

"Thank you Ms. Judson."

She smiled.

"We might as well sit and wait for Basil to get back. I'm sure they'll work it out themselves."

I helped her bring tea and crumpets in. Ratigan thanked her, and she smiled at him, sincerity showing through her eyes for what may have been the first time towards him. We waited a half hour or so. Basil came, dressed in his best coat. His eyes looked a bit hollow, but I knew he hadn't cried. He mourned silently, like a depressed soul. He smiled sadly at Ratigan.

"Hello Ratigan."

I left the room with Ms. Judson, but I peered through the keyhole to see what was going. I was utterly surprised when Ratigan gave Basil a hug, and I knew he was crying.

"Sorry old boy. I guess I've just finally snapped about all this. I feel terrible, and I know I never deserve your forgiveness."

I heard Basil sigh.

"Ratigan, as hard as it is for me, what with our past and all, I know you're a different man now. You're the old James Ratigan, the one I never knew. If we can turn from enemies to friends, what makes you think I don't know your guilt?"

I saw Ratigan brush his eyes with a handkerchief. Basil continued.

"You were a different man then. Consumed by evil."

Ratigan chuckled a little.

"That's exactly what Grace said."

Basil smiled.

"Then she's a smart girl. Because no one could have committed the crimes you did in their right mind. You were lost in it Ratigan, and now you're free from it. You've been given a chance to start over, with all of us. And I think it only fitting, that you take that chance with Elizabeth and Dr. Bell as well."

Tears fell down my face as I saw them smile, then embrace. I knew that sort of thing was uncommon in the Victorian era, so it warmed my heart even more. They called for me to come out, and we talked a little longer. Basil told me where the grave was, and I hugged him.

"I'm so sorry Basil, but I also want to extend my thanks to you."

He smiled.

"You sure know how to mend relationships don't you?"

He and Ratigan laughed, and the two of us left hearing Basil playing a lively tune on the violin. We went to the moors outside of London, and spotted the headstone from the air. We landed. I shivered in my cloak. Ratigan smiled as he took my hand.

"This place is crawling with heather in the spring and summer. She would have liked that."

He sighed, and we trudged over the frostbitten grass. We made our way up to the headstone. Basil had left his usual bouquet of roses tied with a blue satin ribbon. A tear came down my face. I kissed my hand and then touched the cold headstone, setting a single white rose by Basil's bouquet.

It was getting close to 1900 in London, and I counted in my mind. Almost seven years, I thought. I kissed Ratigan's shoulder and walked further down the moor, to give him peace as he mourned the woman he took part in killing. I walked a long way, wiping tears from my eyes. He had so much guilt, and it killed him inside. I couldn't imagine what was running through his head as he stared down at her grave. I shivered, not wanting to know how much pain he felt, or Basil for that matter. After a while I heard the rush of the dirigible, and I turned my eyes to see Ratigan land the vehicle. I sat close to him as we made our way back to the sewer. As we left the moor, we glanced down at the small stone that marked a woman's life.

"Did that help?" I asked.

"I think so my dear."

He squeezed my hand, and we flew on to his home.

A Suspicious Letter.

November turned to December. On the 10th Basil and Dawson, Ratigan and I, and all our friends received invitations to the Royal Christmas Ball to take place on the 20th. Basil grumbled in Ratigan's home.

"Great, another ball to attend."

I laughed as he made a face.

"Oh, cheer up. You had fun at the last one."

He looked at me defensively, though he knew I was right.

"I was just playing it up for the Queen."

"Bull."

We laughed as Pete came into the living room looking disturbed. He held an envelope in his hands. He handed it to Ratigan.

"It was lying outside the bar on the plank."

Ratigan opened it, and within reading the first few lines, asked Irene and I to leave. I gave him a concerned look, but followed her up to the bar.

"Who's it from Ratigan?" Basil asked with interest.

Ratigan's face flushed as he kept reading. There was only one page, but he read it over and over again. Finally he spoke.

"The remaining six of The Seven Kings."

Basil smelled trouble.

"And the nature of its content?"

Ratigan handed it to him. Basil read, as his eyes widened.

"Good God Ratigan. Why didn't you say anything before? Why didn't you clear it up with them?" Ratigan rested his chin in his hand as he leaned his arm on his chair.

"Because I knew it'd be a mess. I figured just to leave them alone, hoping they'd forget me and find another king. BAH! I wasn't the leader. I was just the one smart enough to know how to make the perfect crime. And now instead of moving on they're angry because without me they can't pull crap, and have had to take more blood to get what they want. When I was with them, it was to get the job done and leave. We were only ruthless when we were spotted."

Basil's tail twitched.

"Do you have any idea when they'll strike?"

Ratigan smirked.

"I know those six like the back of my hand. They always wanted to take other's lives in their hands, hold hostages. If I were them, I'd say going public."

Basil shook his head.

"The Christmas Ball."

Ratigan nodded. Basil stood up.

"We've got to call Vole and Scotland Yard."

He started to the door. Ratigan stood up.

"NO! Basil, the authorities won't help. They'll be killed for sure. I'd rather have less blood shed. We'll have to inform the Queen and the guards. Hell, we know they're probably just as trained as the police."

Basil sniggered.

"I suppose you're right. But look at the risks. Hundreds of innocent people, the Queen, the girls." He motioned towards the door. Ratigan nodded his head.

"We need to be ready. Does Oscar know his way around a pistol?"

Basil smiled.

"Like any good man."

"Good. We'll have to carry guns with us. We'll have to explain to the guards, that they can't do it alone." Basil shook his head.

"How will they believe us? There's only six."

Ratigan shook his head.

"In reality there's only six, but when they see the brutality of these men, it'll feel like a whole army has busted into Buckingham Palace. I suppose the girls need guns too. How they hide them is their business. We'll inform Irene, but I don't want Grace getting worked up. We'll just have Irene make her ready."

Basil nodded.

"Yes, the poor girl would worry herself sick. Besides, we need her to help keep us calm."

They laughed as Basil continued.

"All right then, we've got ten days to prepare. You've got to rack your brain for every move they make. How they enter, what they use, how they strike. We've got to beat them."

Ratigan nodded.

Basil came up to the bar and led Irene out for a few minutes. When she came back in I was bursting with curiosity.

"What is it Irene? What is it?"

Irene looked concerned.

"I'm not allowed to tell you, only to make you ready. Practice shooting for the next ten days."

She got out the pistols and we started in. She also starting me on sword fighting, and I learned quickly. But through my mind the whole of those days, when I'd go back home through the portal, I wondered what was going on that I couldn't be informed about.

The night of the Christmas Ball everyone was nervous. We were all gathered at Basil's flat and it had never been so exciting. Irene had found me a stunning velvet green dress, with a V-neck line. She also found a ruby pendent for me to wear, and I looked at her as she helped me do my hair. She had chosen a red satin gown, with a little bit of a train. She wore diamond earrings with a hint of emerald in them. She did my hair up in a beautiful French twist, and put hers up in an elegant bun. Then she brought the pistols out.

"They're on safety. Strap it under this."

She handed me a small green garter that matched my dress as she put on hers.

"Will it hold?"

"Oh yeah. I've already tried it out by bouncing up and down a hundred times."

We giggled. I was still unsure of what was going on, and she could tell.

"Honey, it's just something we don't want you to worry about. We need you to keep us from getting unglued. Besides, you'll find out soon enough."

I returned the comment with a sad look. She squeezed my hand as we went down the stairs. Oscar was in a cheery mood; danger never seemed to faze him that much.

"And here we have our two starlets of the evening. Basil, I don't see any reason why we have to fight over escorting them. They're both gorgeous."

I laughed at his comment, as did Dawson and Ratigan. I looked around.

"Speaking of Basil, where is the old detective?"

My question was answered by a growl from his bedroom.

"DRAT! I CAN NEVER GET THIS RIGHT!"

I laughed, calling to him.

"If it's about your bow tie, come down here and I'll fix it."

He came down the stairs, slicking his hair as if to throw away the outburst he'd just had. I laughed as I straightened his tie into a perfect bow. He stared at me.

"How'd you do that?"

I smiled.

"All my talents are perfected here, my darling detective."

I winked and he blushed, laughing. All the men pinned sprigs of holly in their button holes, and I shook my head as they all loaded their pistols and hid them in their breast pockets. Irene stared at Basil.

"The Queen knows, right?"

Basil nodded.

"Yes, we contacted her. The guards are willing to help, so let's hope it's not all for nothing."

I could tell he wanted to kick himself when he saw the look in my eyes. But there wasn't time to apologize. We all hopped into a carriage and made our way to the palace. We arrived to see the ballroom decorated beyond imagination. The tables were strewn with holly and ivy, the archways filled with mistletoe, and small Christmas trees strung with tool and ribbon placed along each wall. I quickly found Christian with a young mouse girl. I smiled, and he caught my glance. He excused himself from her and walked over to me, bowing in the manner of the occasion. I smiled.

"I see you have a girl."

He blushed.

"I hope it doesn't make you jealous."

I smiled.

"Quite the contrary Christian. I myself have a boyfriend now. I'm just glad to see you happy, as well as her."

I hugged him and kissed him on the cheek. He brought me over to her and introduced her as Amelia O'Brian, an Irish girl with a beautiful complexion and matching personality. We chatted for some time, and became so acquainted it was like two old friends meeting up again. I finally nudged Christian in the side, and he asked her to dance. I smiled as the two of them walked out on the floor. Irene came up behind me.

"You're so classy."

I laughed.

"I learn from the best."

I winked at her and she laughed. I danced with Basil, Oscar, Dawson, and Ratigan. Irene cackled at me.

"You sure love your older men."

"Oh stop!" I giggled.

Dinner was served, with sparkling champagne and white grape juice. When everyone was done, the orchestra started up the music again to dance. I was chatting with Christian and his girlfriend when it hit the fan.

The Remaining Six.

"HELP!"

A guard yelled as he came in. He was bloody, and fell into one of his partners' arms. We could all hear him whisper.

"They're here mate. Take care of 'em. God save the Queen."

He shut his eyes in a shadowy death, and soon gunshots were heard. More guards came in wounded, followed by six gruff looking characters. Irene held her breath before she whispered with a shaky voice.

"The Kings."

They were a bunch of surly fellows, four big mice and two big rats. They were dressed in black, and had guns ready. One of them screamed "EVERYONE! AGAINST THE WALL! DON'T MAKE ME SHOOT!"

One of them took the Queen and threw her into the group, as civilians guarded her. Irene was pale in the face, as were everyone else. One woman fainted, and one of the rats shot her cold. The bigger of the rats took his place on the Queen's stage.

"Ladies and Gentlemen of London. Allow me to introduce myself. I am the new leader of the Seven Kings, or shall I say, six."

He hissed as he glared at Ratigan, who was squeezing my hand as I hid behind his opera cape.

"We are a brotherhood, founded by the ancient mice of Rome, to better our lives, to reap our soil, to gain our fortune..." He chuckled. "At the expense of others." "We are Horatio, Festus, Varrius, Curan, Fenton," He pointed to each mouse and rat as they bowed at their names. "And I" He smirked. "Am Lucius. Very Shakespearian don't you think?"

He cackled, much eviler than I'd ever heard in my life. He rubbed his hands together.

"Now, we were originally The Seven Kings. There is one among you who used to be one of us, but has...shall we say...deserted his pledge. Kindly step forward James."

Ratigan squeezed my hand before Irene hid me behind her back as he stepped out to where he and Lucius were facing each other. Lucius smiled as he stepped down the stage, as he was clearly the bigger of the two.

"Ah, the famous Professor James Ratigan. Back under the Queen's laws I see? Very interesting, you know I remember our initiation night...do you?"

He chuckled.

"As I recall, anyone who deserted the brotherhood was set up for treason."

Ratigan gritted his teeth.

"Treason against thieves? I don't remember anything of the sort." Lucius smirked.

"Oh that's right. You've lost your memory. Yes, it flew out the window didn't it, when you met a certain girl?"

Irene moved me closer against the wall.

"She has nothing to do with why I left. I was supposedly dead, and when I got off that trash barge a part of me knew it was over. I've lost my taste for crime Lucius, and it's unfortunate to say that you never will."

"You mean fortunate don't you? You see here, I have the upper hand this time old boy. You were always the smart one in our bunch. Oxford graduate and professor, mathematical genius, could open a safe blindfolded. But now you've thrown it all away. For this?"

He gestured towards all of us.

"They're fakes James. Social climbers, followers, and too stupid to think for themselves. You're unlike them. You belong with us. No matter what they say, you are what you are. You can't change that."

Ratigan was fuming mad.

"I think not. And if you need proof, just look at me. I'm here; I've changed to where people trust me. I'm not that intimidating criminal anymore. I swear on my life I never will be again."

Lucius got a mad look in his eye as he got close to Ratigan's face.

"Would you swear on someone else's?"

Ratigan nodded.

"For all of this world, yes I swear it."

Lucius grunted.

"You knew I'd come tonight didn't you?"

Ratigan hissed at him.

"Of course I knew! You're too predictable. You were always the brutal one, Lucius. Taking over people's lives. Half of these subjects will be scarred for life when they get out of here."

"If is the correct word my friend. If they get out, and don't flatter yourself James. If I remember correctly it was three years ago when you held many of these same civilians and the Queen under threat. So I don't think I stand corrected that you've changed a bit"

At that moment Basil stepped out of the crowd, aiming his gun.

"I beg to differ Lucius."

"Ah, Basil of Baker Street. So, even you believe this man's words do you? Tell me, how does it feel looking at him right now, knowing that your precious fiancé could be standing next to you if it weren't for him."

Basil flinched.

"You dare speak of the her that way! I admit, I hated him for years, but he has changed. It doesn't take a fool to see that."

Lucius laughed.

"HA! People never change; they just feel the illusion that they have. Only this time Ratigan had someone make the illusion for him."

He snapped his fingers.

"Curan, find her."

Irene hid me behind a tree, as we both retrieved our guns. Oscar and Dawson did the same. Lucius had Festus and Fenton hold Basil and Ratigan, guns aimed at their backs. They did the same to Irene, Dawson, and Oscar, by shooting the guns out of their hands. As Curan reached for me, I stepped on his shoe and ran through the crowd, aiming my gun at Lucius. He smiled.

"Oh a game. How thrilling. You hide my dear, we'll find you."

I cursed at him and ran out the ballroom door and up the flight of stairs. I ran down corridor after corridor, casting my shoes aside under a side table in a hall and flinging my skirt up to pick up my pace. I thought I had outsmarted them, but they knew the castle better than I it seemed. Horatio blocked my path, I pulled out my gun but he shot it out of my hand like the others. He picked me up as I screamed and kicked. He brought me down the corridors, till we were at the main one where the musicians stood on the balconies above the ballroom. He screamed down at Lucius as he held me over the balcony railing.

"Boss, catch!"

He flung me down as I screamed, and dropped into the madman's arms. He laughed as he broke my pendant and pocketed it.

"Something to remember Ratigan's precious darling by."

I spat in his face. Anger surged through him. He dropped me on the ground, then pulled me up onto the stage.

"You little harlot! Bitch!"

He screamed as he slapped me so hard I fell to the floor. I heard Ratigan scream "NO!" but Lucius wouldn't stop. He kicked me in my sides, but I fought back hard. I kicked him in the groin, only to make him angrier. He picked me up and threw me across the stage. I crashed into the side of the Queen's thrown, tearing my dress on the sharp gold edges. Blood trickled down my shoulder, as he kept at me. He kicked me in the stomach, harder and harder, and then slapped me till my mouth and nose were bleeding, calling me every nasty word he could think of. At one point I tried to run, but he pulled me by the back of my dress, tearing the velvet even more. He finally stopped, kicking me till I was at the front of the stage, curled up, leaning against one of the railing posts. He smiled at Ratigan as he saw the man's face flush in horror at my wounds.

"So this is the one, huh? This is the bitch that turned your life around?"

He pointed at me in disgust.

"You're no genius James, if you let a worthless human girl control you. You're an idiot, pure and simple."

Ratigan spoke up as the gun was pushed further into his back.

"She doesn't control me Lucius. She simply showed me there's more to life than the pathetic existence of a thug."

Lucius asked the same question as Doran had, and I shut my eyes in embarrassment and despair.

"Did she seduce you? Is that it? That blonde headed harlot lured you in bed for the promise you'd be a good boy?"

Ratigan spat out his words.

"How dare you! Why, to even think up such a thing takes the mind of a twisted bastard."

Lucius pointed his gun at Ratigan and cocked it, then at the last second changed his aim and shot a hole in the ceiling.

"That was a warning James. You more than anyone should know how a man's temper can flare." He smiled. "But I have a better idea."

He walked off the stage, leaving me heaving for breath from my wounds and still in tears. He motioned for the others to be let go, but had his men hold off everyone with guns.

"I'll let you live James. You deserve to die for deserting us, and I should kill you now. But I can make a bargain. You shed some blood for me, and we'll leave you alone. Just one more shot James, how bout it?"

He got inside Ratigan's breast pocket, knowing the pistol was there and handed it to him. Festus still held his gun into Ratigan's back. Lucius looked back at me.

"You kill her, or we kill you. It's as simple as that. And it will help you to know that if you don't kill her, we'll shoot you in just the right spot so you can see her and everyone here suffer. It's your choice James, make it or break it. Wouldn't you rather take one life than have yours and all these innocent victims? If that's how your conscious works now, think about that, one life against dozens. It's up to you."

He stood aside with a smug look. I gave Ratigan a pleading look as tears streamed down my face mixing with blood from my mouth and nose, my body numb with pain. I believe in you, I kept saying in my head. You're smart; you can get us all out of this. I believe in you. Then I remember the pain really kicking in, so bad that I started to swoon. The last thing I remember before fainting was hearing a gunshot. Whether it hit me or not, I didn't know. My world turned black.

The Final Test.

Ratigan stood looking at Grace, swooning with pain. The gun pushed further in his back, but he had to get through it. Think you idiot! He thought to himself. And in that moment, he realized this was his final test, his final chance to prove his change of heart. He cocked the gun, aiming at what looked liked Grace's heart and pulled the trigger. Instead it hit the railing pole, which was thick English oak painted white. The girl's body was guarded behind the railing, and he knew she'd be safe. After he shot, he swerved around so fast Festus didn't know what was going on. He hit him on the head with the barrel of the gun, as Basil and company moved out of the crowd with their guns, shooting and killing four of the five kings. Basil got Festus, but he left Lucius to Ratigan. They did a little tango with their guns, then Ratigan caught him in a bear hug, holding his arm across Lucius' neck. All stood aghast, as Lucius was a good foot taller and surely stronger than Ratigan.

"You bastard! Challenging me in front of all these innocent victims. You're right Lucius, you're nothing without me, because I would never have stooped this low for revenge, even with my past. And as much as I hate to shed more blood, I know you'd escape from prison, so..."

He put the gun to the king' s head, looking towards the Queen for approval. She nodded, but Lucius wasn't done talking.

"Oh one more thing. Tell that little harlot of yours I would have done her."

Ratigan shot him in the head, disgusted with the criminal's last words. The Queen was safe, and all the guests had recovered and were leaving as the police came in astonished to find the scene clear. Basil took everyone in a carriage to the sewer so Dawson could help with wounds, and they hailed down another for Ratigan so Grace could lay flat in the seat of the next one. Ratigan went over to her limp body. There was still a pulse. You poor thing, he thought. Why do you always get caught in the middle? He picked up her body and carried her to the carriage, where they made for his home.

I woke up in bed in the sewer, the others staring at me. Dawson was at my side, applying salve to my face and shoulders. I started to mumble.

"She's coming to."

Dawson smiled at me. I winced as he touched my bruised arm.

"What happened?"

Basil smiled.

"A revelation. Ratigan's final test."

I shut my eyes in agony as salve was applied to my stomach and back. Basil explained.

"You heard the deal I imagine? You didn't faint until the bullet was fired. Ratigan shot the post, then spun around and hit old Festus on the head with the butt of the gun. It was a hell-fire from there on."

I coughed.

"Everyone okay? How 'bout the kings? Are they gone?"

Basil raised his hand.

"The kings are dead, and there were no casualties except that one innocent woman at the beginning."

I shut my eyes in relief.

"Good... ouch!" I winced as Dawson brought an icy cold rag to my cheek. It was bruised terribly. I laughed, trying to make a joke.

"That Lucius sure hit harder than Doran could ever master."

Basil laughed for a moment, then returned to his serious expression. Irene was by me, and I noticed everyone was in a change of clothes.

"How long have I been out?"

Irene sighed.

"A day. Good thing too. It was a hell in itself as well, reporters, the police, Vole angrier than a wet hen." I smiled.

" I would have liked to see that."

Basil laughed.

"I'm sure there will be headlines," He waved his hand in the air as if picturing it.

"OLD CRIMINAL BEATS POLICE TO THE RESCUE AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE. Ha! That'd be delicious"

We all chuckled. Then Dawson and Basil said their goodbyes, leaving Irene instructions on handling the wounds on my chest. She waved them away and shut the door. I lifted up my nightgown as she counted the wounds and applied the cooling salve.

"My, my. He sure laid into you didn't he?"

I sighed.

"I shouldn't have spit at him. I should have just kept my mouth shut."

Irene smiled.

"Oh no sweetie. You did the right thing. You acted in the moment, as we all have to."

She glanced at the wall, where on the other side Ratigan's room was. She sighed.

"He's been there all day. Feeling guilty, said he shouldn't have been so careless."

I shook my head.

"Lucius knew about me Irene. If he had to, he would have found me and taken me to the ball. Either way he wanted to use me to get to Ratigan." A curious smile came over my face.

"What is it Dahling?"

"Just wondering how six men could all end up together with Shakespearian names. They must have changed them. But I would have thought they'd have been too stupid to open a book of sonnets." I laughed. Irene smiled. I glanced at her curiously.

"What?"

"I just realized something. James had to have been used in that time period somewhere. So maybe they are their real names."

I laughed hard, as did Irene at her own joke. She put my nightgown down and covered me with the lightest blanket on the bed, as the room was warm from the fireplace. She kissed my head.

"I wouldn't recommend walking, but if you need to, here's a cane." She leaned it against my bed. I smiled.

"Thanks, Irene."

She winked.

"Anything for you, babe."

She smiled, then put her cloak on and left.

Rather Here Than There.

I tried to sleep, but I couldn't get comfortable. Lucius had kicked me everywhere, so it was impossible to move without hurting. It was the worst physical pain I'd ever had in my life, but surprisingly it didn't bother me. What bothered me was what was sitting on the other side of my wall. He had done one of the most courageous things in his life, but yet I could tell something was up when he wasn't among the crowd when I'd opened my eyes, and with what Irene had said. I sat up, wincing, but shook it off. I put on my housecoat and leaned on the cane as I limped the few feet to his room.

Light was coming through the crack in the bottom and I peered through his keyhole to see him cold, dressed in his housecoat under the covers, a blanket wrapped around his shoulders. He was reading, and had on his half-mooned reading glasses, which for some reason I found cute. I could tell he was forcing himself to focus on the words, but he kept staring at the wall, which on the other side was the guest room where I slept. I knocked quietly. He sat up, alert, then calmed down. I suppose he thought it was Fidget, drunk again. He took off his glasses, and rested them on the side table.

"Come in."

I opened the door as it creaked, and he gasped.

"Gracie! What are you doing up? Here," He got up and helped me walk to his bed.

Then he lifted me up and sat me down on it, arranging the covers over my legs and torso. He shivered, and I giggled as he flew back under the covers after poking at the fire. He sighed as he pulled the pillow down so we both faced each other on our sides.

"I suppose you can't sleep?"

I smiled sadly, nodding as he touched my bruised forehead.

"I'm so sorry sweetie, how he hurt you. I should have stopped him..."

He lowered his eyes. I pushed his hand away from my forehead.

"No, it's not that. I can't sleep because...because I know you feel terrible."

He sighed, then laughed lightly.

"You can read me like a book can't you?"

I smiled.

"Just as you can me."

He sighed, figuring I wouldn't leave until he told me. A tear fell down his cheek.

"I just wish you didn't have to be in the middle of everything, have to take the blow all the time. Sometimes I wish we'd never met, so you wouldn't have to be hurt like this."

He lowered his eyes. I put my hand on his furry cheek, smiling sympathetically.

"Don't talk like that. You sound like a troubled lover straight from Shakespeare."

He laughed for a moment as I brought up the era of the king's names. Then he lowered his eyes again. I kept my hand on his cheek.

"You think that here I suffer too much? That I'd be better off if I left?"

He sighed.

"Would you be hurt if I said yes?"

I sighed.

"No, but you're dead wrong." He looked at me.

"Ratigan, I would rather be laying here bruised and bleeding than sitting back at home on the couch, with no where to go, and no one to turn to. We've talked about what I've gone through, the excruciating anxiety and depression. Haven't we? Haven't we? Look at me!"

I made my voice firm as his eyes were filling with tears like a child. I wasn't taken aback this time, as he never hid his emotions anymore. He lifted his chin a little, making eye contact with me, as he saw the pleading look in my eyes.

"I would rather be suffering through the worst physical pain God has ever known, than being back there, afraid."

Tears were falling down my cheeks now too, as I meant what I said with all the compassion in my soul.

"For so many nights I cried, wishing my life would just end, so that my pain would go away. I was a prisoner in my own head, consumed by thoughts so dark and scary that I'd scream out loud when they popped up."

He shut his eyes, but he opened them again as my voice grew firmer.

"But I never lost faith. I prayed to God every day and night to answer my prayers. And he did. He gave me this." I waved my hand around the room.

"I may have the best friends and family a girl could ever know, but not even they could help save me. I was given a miracle, a gift, and it has helped me more than words could describe. And here with you, has helped me most of all. I'm free. I don't think about those dark thoughts anymore because I have something to focus my energy on. Whether I can help Basil solve a case, or whether Olivia is going to stray too far in the park. Silly little worries that every girl should have. And because of those, I'm ready for things like this now."

I pointed to my arm where you could still see the imprint of Lucius' hand when he'd threw me up on the stage. Ratigan shook his head as he pulled my hand away from his cheek, his tears falling on it.

"You shouldn't have to be ready. You're only a child."

I smiled sadly.

"Even children aren't safe from evil and despair, Ratigan." I paused.

"I know you blame yourself for this," I waved at my bruised body. "But there was nothing you could do. You had a gun to your back for God's sake. And then what did you do? When put in the spotlight, you showed everyone, who still had a shadow of doubt in their mind about you, that you were for real. No more self-doubt Ratigan, no more...please. You have more need of it."

Tears still streamed down his face as he took my hand and squeezed it. I smiled.

"God helped me, Ratigan. He gave me something more; he filled the hole in my heart that was so empty it controlled my life. I have a whole new way of living. Just think, look what I've gained. Even more pets in Felicia and Toby, brothers in Pete, Fidget, and them, sisters in Irene and Olivia, uncles in Dawson, Oscar, and Basil..."

He smiled. I kept my eyes on him as I spoke.

"And a second father in you." He stared up at me in wonder.

I smiled.

"I have a wonderful life back home Ratigan, but it took finding you all for me to see it fully for the first time. Now I never take life for granted, and I thank God each day for letting me live the life he's given me. To be able to have a place I can turn, anytime I want, from anywhere..." I paused. "To have people to just let me forget my troubles, who love me without worrying so much, more people to hold me. That's what I needed, and that's what you guys are, my salvation, my extra security."

Tears fell down both of our faces as he hugged me, and surprisingly my wounds didn't hurt anymore. My tears splattered on his wool housecoat, and I closed my eyes, savoring the moment like I did with my own dad in sappy moments like this. When we pulled away, he laughed wiping his eyes.

"With wisdom like that, you should be twice my age."

I laughed.

"You sound like my mother."

He giggled, imitating her voice.

"Oh my little Gracie Girl! Oh, my little darling!"

I slapped him playfully, thankful that he was laughing again. He lie on his back, still looking at me, and spoke after another moment of silence.

"I'm sorry I said that before. I don't want you to leave."

I smiled as he took my hand.

"I know you don't," as I pulled the covers safely around me. He looked at me curiously.

"Is this questionable?"

I laughed.

"Who gives a damn, Ratigan? Who gives a damn?" He cackled, as did I, and we fell asleep in the huge bed still holding hands. I woke up in the middle of the night, and smiled watching him sleep. I closed my eyes again, thankful for the friend lying next to me, and the others safe and snug in their flats. Thankful that I had another place to call home.

I woke up cuddled close to him. I smiled when I saw the fire was extremely low, knowing we'd scooted together in our sleep for warmth. I got up and poked at it, and it blazed a little better. I shivered as I crawled back to my spot on the pillow. I scooted down a little and Ratigan stirred. He smiled at me as he yawned.

"Good morning."

"Morning" I said as I scooted closer to him. He chuckled and put his arm around my stomach lightly. He kissed my hair and sighed. I looked back at him.

"What?"

He smiled sadly as a tear fell down his cheek.

"I've just never had someone trust me this much, like a daughter, or anything for that matter. It feels good."

I turned around and smiled at him. He pulled me into a hug and I nuzzled my head under his chin. I smiled.

"It feels so good to be able to trust someone this much as well."

Another tear fell down his cheek, and I looked up at him.

"Don't cry."

He smiled.

"Tears of happiness, dear heart. Tears of happiness."

As I nuzzled back down by his chest to sleep in, I couldn't imagine that this mentor of mine had ever been a monster. People say that people never change, but as I lay there hearing his heartbeat, I knew there wasn't a mean bone in his body left. And I knew with all my heart that I would rather be here in the moment with him than back there in pain anyday.

The Blizzard.

When we woke up later, we both sucked in chilly breaths, laughing as I spoke the obvious.

"Fire's dead."

Ratigan rubbed his arms.

"Too cold though..."

We both put on our slippers and made our way to the doorway of the barrel. We could see the huge pile of snow that had fallen through the sewer's cracks.

"Uh oh," he said as he sprinted to the pulley.

He got up to the top, teeth chattering as he swung the bucket with his body weight to the brick wall. He pulled at something, and it followed him across. It looked like a metal cookie sheet, but I smiled as I saw its purpose. He pulled it all the way across the top of the sewer and heaved when it was done. When he got back down shivering, he rubbed his arms again.

"That should take care of it..."

His voice trailed off as his eyes fell on Felicia. She looked pitiful, shivering violently. I quickly called for my portal, getting the biggest wool blanket I could shove through the door. We covered her with it as she stared at the pile of snow with bitterness. After a minute or so though, she started to purr and let Ratigan scratch her under the chin. I chuckled. I also had grabbed some blankets for us and Ratigan ran to the kitchen to start up the stove as I started the fire up in the living room and released the heavy velvet curtain that went over the doorway to the barrel. When he came out with a tray he shook his head as he looked at the curtain.

"If this keeps up, Christmas might be on hold this year."

"Tell me about it," I said as I sipped at my tea.

He smiled.

"Speaking of which, what do you want anyway? I'd say I owe you big time this year."

I laughed.

"You don't owe me a thing, and I have all the gifts I need."

He smiled.

"Come on, everyone will think me an old crone if I don't give you or them something."

I took the opportunity.

"You are an old crone."

He cackled.

"Hey, that's not fair."

"Then don't set yourself up for the joke," I laughed as I tried to cool down my porridge by blowing on it. He ate as well.

"Fine, if you won't tell me what you want, at least help me with the others. Basil?"

"A vacation." He cackled, as did I at my cynicism.

"Okay...um..."

I sat concentrating. I always managed to think up things at the last second, but I wasn't sure what else there was for Basil. He seemed to have everything. I smiled when it came to my mind.

"A new pipe. Ms. Judson ruined his the other day by cleaning it out with soap."

Ratigan cackled.

"Won't he get a new one though?"

"This weather won't merit it with Toby, plus, she made him promise that for her Christmas present from him he'd quit for a week."

Ratigan smiled.

"Clever woman. Dawson?"

"Handkerchiefs. Runs out of them or loses them frequently."

Ratigan smiled as he wrote all this down with his fountain pen.

"Pete and the boys?"

I smiled.

"Oh, I'm taking care of them. They'll be so drunk later on they won't care if they don't get a thing. Although I did see some pretty scarves they could manage to tear up."

He laughed.

"What are you planning?"

"Bringing some very fine Champagne with me. They'll be sauced before you can say 'Santa'."

He cackled.

"Sounds more like a curse than a present, but okay. Please tell me you got them something else?

"Of course. I'm doing a little tradition. Giving everyone a picture of them or me and them that I like."

He smiled.

"Irene?"

"Oh, there's this broach downtown she's dying to have. If we can get by in this blasted weather, I'll take you there in the dirigible." I finished the list for him.

"Olivia, I'd say a jewelry box, as she's become addicted to the stuff as much as we are, but Flaversham's stocked for the holidays so I dare say he won't be able to make one." He cackled at the remark about jewelry.

"Women..."

I gave him a look, then laughed.

"Oscar, he mentioned he needs a new flower presser. He's got so many stuffed in books his cleaning woman's having a fit."

Ratigan laughed.

"I bet she would. What are your ideas?"

"Well in addition to the pictures... the alcohol for the boys, which I'm making them drink only after it clears out. For Irene a new book of operatic songs, Basil... a violin cleaning kit, as he's always complaining about its dirtiness."

Ratigan chuckled.

"Dawson is getting a book on herb lore, he said he was interested in it. Olivia, a little necklace. Oscar knows what he's getting. And I assumed I'd give Mrs. Judson some fresh herbs from the portal. She says they're better hand dried."

Ratigan smiled.

"What may I ask is Oscar getting?"

"A self portrait to boost his ego."

My friend cackled.

"I do remember your sketch book when you were held prisoner. You still drawl in it, don't you?" I smiled.

"It's in the guest room filled up. I have a newer one I'm using. I find it funny though, I'm not even close to that good at home."

He smiled.

"Passion creates miracles."

I laughed.

"Amen to that."

I cleared away the breakfast tray, and came back out from the kitchen to find Ratigan sitting on the couch with the two familiar black books.

"You sneak!" I said as I got beside him.

He laughed.

"I couldn't help it. Good lord, these are good. I had forgotten..." He said as he turned the pages of the first tattered one. There were my first sketches of Basil and Olivia, Big Ben, pictures of Pete and the boys, and one that Ratigan blushed at when he saw it. It was one of him leaned up against the wall of the barrel smiling.

"When was this?"

"When the boys practically forced me to dance. The moment I realized you'd be tough to figure out."

He laughed. We looked through dozens, of Lily and Julius Augustus Silverson when they'd come and visit, Christian with his friends, all of us striking funny poses I'd modeled after pictures, and my newest ones of Oscar. Ratigan laughed.

"Practice before the painting?"

I smiled nodding.

"It's coming along. Although it just adds to everyone's suspicions."

Ratigan gave me a pressing look to continue.

"That he's a conceited and self-absorbed know-it-all." We both laughed hysterically. He sighed.

"And me?"

"HA! Like I'd tell."

He smiled, but I hoped he didn't suspect anything. His top hat had become rather sad looking as of late, and with his meticulous personality, I knew it bothered him so much. I was planning on sneaking his picture in it, one I found quite funny.

In my realm of the perfect bedroom, I had discovered photo albums full of pictures from London, good and bad memories that had documented my time in London, and the adventures I'd had. There were also ones from the past, shots of me and my friends that I had never seen taken, things that only an angel would have caught.

My particular favorite was one of Ratigan and me when we were at the Queen's ball where he'd had been formally forgiven. We were dancing a waltz, and laughing with Basil and Irene about something, expect you could only see the two of us, as we looked up at each other smiling. I found it added more humor to his elegant home instead of all the artwork that took up for little personal portraits he owned. We sat looking at my sketches and laughing at memories for the whole day, still in our pajamas, and once again cuddled up in Ratigan's huge bed as the fire blazed. We sat talking forever, then a sweet smile crossed his face.

"What?"

"Oh, just figured out what I'm giving you for Christmas."

"Ratigan! What did I say?" He laughed, taking my hand.

"As if I'm going to listen?" We laughed, then were quiet for some time, staring at the fire. He got serious all of a sudden.

"Grace?"

"Hmm?"

"Have I ever told you how much I love you?"

I turned around and hugged him for a long time.

"I love you too."

We both fell asleep listening to the sound of snow falling on the pavement above the sewer, as the fire crackled. A tear fell down my cheek as I thanked God for giving me this gift.

The Holly And The Ivy.

Just as we hoped we woke up the next day to find the snow bearable. We rushed to take baths and change into warm clothes. I pulled my wool cloak around me as I got my purse and followed Ratigan into the dirigible. I had already done all my shopping in the portal or back in November, but Ratigan was a different story. I laughed as Ratigan started up the motor, a scarf tied tightly round his neck.

"Why is it men wait till the last minute? Lord, Ratigan, its Christmas Eve!"

He laughed as I asked the question, shaking my head.

"You think I don't know that? And why is it women always notice quirks like that?"

We giggled.

I buried my face into my cloak as we went downtown, parking the dirigible in some bushes. I helped him get everything he needed, and by the time we were done, we were each carrying several parcels, the wind stinging our cheeks. When we returned I got some ribbon out of the portal and helped him wrap everything. I smiled as I wrapped the box that held Irene's broach.

"Good for you it was still there. She would have blown a hole in your head if you didn't get her anything."

Ratigan laughed.

I helped him decorate the bar, which was the only fitting place to hold all the company for such an occasion. We strung greenery all over, and brought in a miniature fern tree I decorated with beautiful ornaments from the portal. I also put one in Ratigan's living room, where we arranged all the presents and did more decorations. I went into the portal, bringing out my huge load, and we arranged the lot. He laughed when he saw his parcel from me.

"What on earth...?"

I laughed as he trailed off, eyebrows raised.

" Uh, ah, ah..." I smiled, taking it away from him.

Just that minute Irene came in, freezing, with Basil following behind her.

"Pies from the landlady," She smiled as she took them into the kitchen.

Dawson and Oscar followed with Olivia and Pete. Fidget trumped in, looking peeved at Ratigan.

"You locked me out! You put the cover on the sewer, and the bar door was blocked until I swept it clean."

I laughed, kissing his head as I waved away the bitterness in his voice.

"And we thank you for it Fidget. Now cheer up, it's Christmas!"

I was glad Ratigan and I had remembered him on our downtown visit. He may be a bum, but in his mind we were sure he expected more than a good drink and a picture. Olivia hugged me.

"We were so worried about you! We thought you'd get snowed in, and that it would melt and flood the place.

We all laughed as she sighed.

"Poor Daddy's missing all the fun. He's been up all night working for orders."

I felt bad for Flaversham. Making children's toys was a passion for him, but he was always strained when holidays arrived. We all settled in as Ratigan came into the room with one last box, which he placed under the tree.

"What's that gov?" Pete asked. He knew the nickname made us laugh, and of course it got the right response.

Ratigan chuckled.

"It's Grace's present, gov."

He drew the word out so we laughed even harder. I helped Irene with the tea, and we all settled in as the fire blazed. Pete was in a frisky mood.

"So whatcha get me, Gracie Girl? Granted, the boys and me aren't all hopped up into this Christmas stuff."

I laughed.

"It's not much, but you'll like it when you see it."

He smiled.

"Just give me some good liquor and I'm fine."

Ratigan and I couldn't look at each other as we held back laughter. We all laughed, and gabbed about everything from the holiday, to how my life at home was going. We were still laughing when we said our goodbyes. I stayed a little longer than the rest, and gave Ratigan a kiss on the cheek before I went home.

"Sleep tight."

He smiled at me as I winked at him.

Happy Christmas!

Christmas morning was cold and happy back home, but as the rest of the family was getting ready to go to my aunt's for Christmas dinner, I snuck into the portal. I paid a visit to Basil's flat to give Toby a bone and leave Mrs. Judson's gift in the kitchen, as she was visiting family. I made my way to the sewer. No one was in the bar, but I could hear voices downstairs.

"Where is she? I want my gifts!" I could hear Pete shrieking.

"Shut up Pete. She's coming."

"Irene's was always the voice of reason. I heard chuckles, and I finally came into Ratigan's doorway to the barrel.

"Happy Christmas everyone!"

"They all smiled as they stood to greet me. Olivia ran up to me in a cute red dress.

"Well, don't you look beautiful?" I said as I kissed her under the mistletoe. She blushed.

"Alright, she's here. Dig in!"

I laughed as Pete went flying to the tree like a child. Olivia narrowed her eyebrows at him.

"He's worse than I was."

I doubled over with laughter. I made the rounds with kisses, and laughed when I saw Oscar. He gave me a look.

"Yes Oscar. The unveiling will take place today."

He laughed at my mention of his painting.

Everyone dug into their gifts, from jewelry to scarves, everyone was bright and bubbly. Ratigan laughed as he pulled the picture of me and him dancing from his new top hat.

"Oh my lord! That deserves to be on the mantel!"

Olivia laughed.

"Mine too."

I had given her one where we'd been dressing up. She thought it'd be funny to dress as Ratigan and Basil. So there she was, little deerstalker and coat, and a pipe in her mouth. I had stood by her at an angle in a black suit identical to Ratigan's, with a fake cigarette in a holder posed elegantly in my hands, as we looked at each other smirking. She showed everyone, and Basil and Ratigan cracked up.

Everyone loved their gifts, and I was amazed at mine. Basil and Dawson had bought me a new cloak; Irene had given me a new dress. I had also gotten a new book of piano solos from Olivia, and an apron from Pete.

"Since you're basically bar maid."

We all laughed. Oscar gave me a book of sonnets from Shakespeare, and everyone clapped when I unveiled his painting.

"Oh my," Basil said. "She really did catch your arrogance old chap."

Oscar laughed, hitting him with a pillow. We could hear the boys coming into the bar, so we all headed up. Ratigan hadn't given me my gift from him, but I didn't question it.

"Alright boys, Happy Christmas! Prepare to get smashed!"

I pulled out the alcoholic drink, and the boys cheered as they looked at their pictures. I had gotten enough bottles, and the other adults took some. I got out sparkling white grape juice for Olivia and I, and we all laughed and chatted. Basil made me get on the stage and play some songs from my new songbook, and we sang carols and stuffed ourselves silly with the food supply. As the time past, the boys got drunk as expected and went out of the bar slurring their words as they went on to bar hop.

It grew quiet, and we returned to Ratigan's living room. Irene laughed.

"I've never known you to put up a tree."

He laughed, pointing at me.

"All praise goes to her."

I laughed as Irene clapped at me. She walked up to it and started looking at the ornaments. She stopped dead in her tracks.

"What in the world...oh my!"

She started laughing as she held up hand blown ornaments of Basil, Dawson, Olivia, and Ratigan.

Old Disney memorabilia." I explained as she kept laughing.

"My, my."

The day faded, and soon everyone had to say goodbyes. I gave Ratigan a kiss before I summoned the portal.

"Uh, ah, ah, not yet." He said.

I laughed as he pulled the little box out from under the tree.

"I told you no gift!"

He laughed.

"Like I said, I wouldn't listen."

I pulled the bow off, and opened the box, gasping. Inside was the most beautiful ring I'd ever seen. It was tiny and simple, like I loved. A small circular top showed a tiny sapphire at the top I don't know how, but somehow the maker had been able to get words written on it. The inscription said: Vous resterez toujours à mon coeur. I looked at Ratigan curiously. I knew it was French, but I wasn't an expert on the language.

"It says, "You will always remain in my heart"." He answered for me.

I covered my mouth as tears started to well up in the corners of my eyes. I put it on and admired it.

"My father was part French, and gave it to my mother when he courted her. She knew I was running away, and gave this to me before I left for Oxford when I was young. She told me to pass it on some day to someone to who these words were true for me."

I looked up at him with tears now running down my face. He smiled.

"With your magic, I'm sure you could wear it and no one would see it."

I put my hands out and hugged him.

"It's beautiful. You don't know how much that means to me Ratigan, you saying that." He smiled, kissing my forehead.

"What else are godfathers for?"

I laughed as I wiped tears away.

I hugged him again for a few minutes before I went back into the real world. Ratigan was right, I was still wearing the ring and no one else could see it. And as I went to my aunt's house for Christmas dinner, and hugged everyone greeting them with holiday sayings, I'd glance at the ring and smile. I felt so blessed.