"Are we nearly there, yet?" Scully asked, waking up a little. They'd flown overnight, stayed in a London hotel, and had set off that afternoon, after seeing a few of London's attractions, to head to Cornwall.
"Dunno. Getting close I think," Mulder replied. It was beginning to grow dark. "These British roads are so confusing!" Mulder complained. "Why do they have to drive on the left side of the road anyway?"
"That's one mystery we'll probably never solve," Scully replied.
"Ooh, another X-File!" Mulder joked
"Very funny," Scully commented. She glanced out of the window, at the darkened fields that surrounded them. "It's all so... unspoilt," she remarked, wishing it was a little lighter.
"Yeah... Oxford was nice. I've always liked England," Mulder replied. He suddenly pulled up on the side of the road, and turned on the light inside their hired car. "Where's the map that Tammy sent?" he questioned.
"Erm..." Scully began. She rooted in the dashboard cupboard, and eventually pulled out a now dog-eared scrap of paper.
"I just saw a sign for Penzance. I reckon we're getting close. It's near a place called Penzance cove," Mulder explained. Scully held the map up to the light, and they both looked at it. "Alright... we gotta pass through Penzance, and take the second turn on the left, after the last street of houses," he noted.
"Sounds easy enough," Scully said, studying the map some more. "Well, until that point," she added, seeing that the directions grew more complicated.
"I told Tammy we'd arrive before dinner... that's at 7pm, apparently. It's almost half five now," Mulder replied.
"Well, we're not lost yet!" Scully laughed, beginning to fold the map up.
"Tammy says you can't miss the castle. I guess we just keep heading towards the coast," Mulder said. He steered the car back onto the deserted road. He grinned over at Scully, before returning his eyes to the road. "I can't wait for you to meet Tammy. She's great, used to be a real laugh, back at uni. Got red hair, too. I think you'll like her," he said confidently.
"So long as she's nothing like..." Scully began warningly.
"Completely different, I assure you," Mulder interrupted, grinning. Scully smiled slightly, but she still wasn't entirely convinced.
"Well, I'll wait and see," she replied. Mulder just smiled, and kept on driving.
It was almost ten to six when the pair finally reached the tall iron gates that barred the way into Tresyllian Castle. Mulder stopped the car, and wound down the window. There was a lit button glowing on the gate pillar. "Back in a sec," he promised Scully, before getting out of the car. He walked up to the gate, and pressed the button. A voice emitted from a hidden speaker.
"Please announce yourself. State your name and title," the voice ordered. Mulder felt a little stupid. This was much more formal than the identity speakers on apartments. He scratched his chin, then noticed a little microphone panel set under the button.
"Uhh... Mr Fox Mulder," he spoke loudly. There was a silence for a few seconds. Mulder waited impatiently, shifting from one foot to the other.
"You may come through," the voice said. The gates creaked open. Mulder got back into the car, and drove through. The gates slid shut behind them.
"This Tammy must have a fair bit of money," Scully commented.
"The castle belongs to her fiance, although yeah, she was quite well off, I guess," Mulder replied. He parked the car next to a couple of others that stood in the huge courtyard. As the two climbed out of their vehicle, flood lights blazed on, and the castle was impressively lit up. Scully gazed up at it, impressed.
"It's beautiful!" she exclaimed. A large, round stone tower formed the western part of the building, and the eastern part consisted of a long, oblong section, with many mullioned windows. Light came from several of them, especially on the lower floor. Suddenly, the large oak entrance doors were flung open, and a beautiful red-haired woman, who looked to be in her mid-thirties, came rushing outside. She met Mulder in a warm hug.
"Fox! It's so wonderful to see you again!" she exclaimed happily. Scully frowned. It irked her when people called Mulder by his first name; partially because he hated it, and also because he never let Scully do it.
"You too, Tammy. You look great, by the way," Mulder replied, smiling at her. Tammy stepped back.
"As do you. You've never changed," she replied grinning. She suddenly noticed Scully. "Oh I say, who's your friend?"
Mulder grinned, and put an arm around Scully in a friendly fashion. "This, is my very, very good friend, Dana Scully," he informed.
"Oh, how lovely to meet you! Really Fox, why didn't you tell me you were bringing a guest? I'd have got the maid to make up another room! Unless..." she smiled knowingly. Scully turned over to stare at Mulder. He shoved his hands in his pockets and just grinned. "So, is it serious?" Tammy questioned.
"Huh?" Scully said, rather stupidly.
"What, me and Sc... Uh... Dana?" Mulder questioned.
"Well who else? Come on Fox, I want to know just everything!" Tammy laughed. "Follow me, I'm sure you'll want to meet everyone else before dinner, as well as freshening up!" she added, before walking off inside. Scully stopped Mulder, and grabbed hold of his arm.
"What the hell was all that about?" she hissed angrily.
"I was just playin' around Scully, really," Mulder replied, smiling charmingly at her. Scully scowled back.
"Now she'll tell everyone we're together, and we'll have to share a room, and..." she began.
"She jumped to the wrong conclusion, it wasn't my fault. She didn't give me the chance to correct her. That's Tammy, I guess," he replied, still smiling.
"Well, you'll go and do it. Now," Scully ordered.
"Oh but... well, it might upset her. I mean, once Tammy thinks one thing... well, she doesn't like change. Besides, what's your big problem? It could be fun... pretending," he grinned.
"I don't think so," Scully retorted sulkily.
"Still thinking of Pendrell?" Mulder joked.
"No!" Scully snapped, beginning to get annoyed.
"Alright, alright, calm down. I'll set Tammy straight, don't worry," Mulder said.
"Good," Scully replied tersely. Suddenly, Tammy poked her head around the doors.
"Hey you two, you can get plenty of time alone later! Just come inside, it's too cold to be standing around!" she called.
"Come on," Mulder said, taking Scully by the hand and leading her inside.
"I'm so glad you could make it!" gushed Tammy as the two stepped inside. Mulder smiled, as did Scully.
"So, is everyone else here?" asked Mulder. Tammy had invited several guests, for the celebration of both her engagement party and the birthday of her husband-to-be, Jack. Tammy nodded enthusiastically, her short red hair bobbing up and down.
"Yes, it's going to be so perfect!" said Tammy.
"So, how you going?" asked Mulder as Tammy led them through to the drawing room. Tammy turned and smiled at Mulder.
"We can talk later Fox, just first, lets meet the guests," she suggested. Mulder nodded, and turned to look at Scully, who entered the room behind them. He fell out of step with Tammy, and into step with Scully. Tammy turned and smiled, and Mulder looked on, his gaze falling upon two former friends he had met while over here in England. Montague 'Monty' Hyde, and Vivien Pentreath. The former had taken psychology with Mulder, and the latter had been an artist, and a friend of Tammy's. Mulder broke out into a smile, stepping forward and shaking Monty's hand.
"Hey, Monty, good to see ya," he recalled. Monty smiled somberly back.
"It's been a long time Mulder," said Monty. He looked to be around the same age as Mulder, late thirties, and he was tall, with foppish black hair, and a penetrating stare.
"You don't have to tell me that," said Mulder, turning and grinning at Scully. "Viv, Monty, this is my good friend, and partner at the FBI, Dana Scully," introduced Mulder. Monty stepped forward.
"Charmed to meet you Ms. Scully," he assumed. Vivien simply smiled, tucking a lock of her tawny hair behind one ear. Scully smiled back politely.
"Ah, so you've finally arrived," spoke an upper class London accent. Mulder turned, as did Scully to see the overly familiar face of Phoebe Greene. She had changed little in the past five years or so since they had last seen her, her auburn hair still the same style, if slightly altered, as the last time. She looked slightly surprised to see Scully, but quickly disregarded her and focused her attentions on Mulder. He stepped forward and gave her a short hug.
"It's nice to see you again Phoebe," he said pleasantly.
"As it is to see you," replied Phoebe.
"Phoebe," cut in Scully, extending an arm, "you remember me, don't you?" she asked. Phoebe looked at Scully, and smiled shortly.
"How could I forget?" she asked, taking Scully's hand. Scully smiled back.
"Didn't think you would," she said. Tammy smiled.
"Well, I'm glad these introductions are out of the way, where are Ian and Iris, Jack, and Dr. Wendish?" asked Tammy suddenly. Mulder turned to Tammy.
"Wendish?" he asked, faintly recognising the name. Tammy smiled eagerly.
"Yes, our old professor Mulder!" she said with a sparkling smile. Phoebe regarded Scully coolly.
"You were the last person I expected to see, of that I'm quite certain," she said, leaning over, keeping her eyes firmly on Mulder.
"He was invited to bring a friend," reminded Scully. Phoebe glanced at the FBI agent.
"Friend?" she asked, looking slightly critical. Scully gave Phoebe a faint smile.
"Still coveting with clients?" asked Scully, her eyes also on Mulder. She averted her gaze to the police officer. Phoebe looked most offended.
"You had no right..." began Phoebe, prepared to let the American know that such comments would not go unheard.
"Come on you two, you have to meet the rest!" said Tammy, grabbing Mulder and Scully by the arm. Scully just raised her eyebrows and smiled at Phoebe, just as she was pulled into the foyer. Phoebe stood glaring after them. She turned to her two friends.
"I never did like her," she muttered darkly.
"She seemed pleasant enough," said Hyde. Vivien nodded in agreement.
"You haven't met her, not like I have," retorted Phoebe.
Tammy took the pair into the New Great Hall. The floor was covered with worn black and white marble tiles. Doorways led off in all directions, and two sweeping staircases led to the gallery above. A young couple were dancing to the faint sound of rock music, which came from a small portable radio on a nearby table. He was a tall blonde, and the woman had short, dark curly hair, her figure tall and waif-like. They looked to be in their mid thirties. The man noticed them first, and turned off the radio, smiling in greeting. "Fox, Dana, these are my good friends, Ian Fordyce, and Iris Vane," Tammy introduced.
"My dear! What a handsome addition to your guest list!" Iris chirped, smiling flirtatiously over at Mulder.
"Yes, this is my old friend Fox Mulder. I know him from back when we were at Oxford together," Tammy explained. "He's an FBI agent. So is his friend, Dana Scully." Ian smiled over at Scully, and kissed her hand. He then looked her up and down with an air of expert approval. Scully didn't smile too widely back. It didn't seem to deter him.
"I say, are there any more female agents like you back at the old FBI then?" he questioned.
"Not unless they happen to work in the same section as me," Scully replied coolly. Mulder grinned at her.
"Oh, and what section do you work for? All this crime stuff is brutally fascinating," Iris remarked.
"The X-Files. X as in 'unexplained'," Mulder replied.
"Smashing. And you're partners?" Ian asked.
"Friends too," Mulder said. Scully suddenly placed a hand against his chest, and smiled up at him.
"Come now Fox, don't be shy. We're a lot more than just friends," she said in a silky tone. Ian and Iris both looked a little disappointed by this, but said nothing and just smiled politely. Mulder swallowed nervously.
"Uh, yeah," he said, shooting Scully a sharp look. She simply smirked. Nobody noticed the exchange. Mulder and Scully had grown good at it, the ability mostly stemming from a game they used to play when they'd been called in by their AD, after particular incidents that had landed them in trouble. Suddenly, a tall, handsome, dark-browed man strode into the room. He was wearing an extremely smart dinner jacket.
"Ah, last guests arrived then, Tammy darling?" he questioned. Tammy nodded.
"Yes! Jack, this is my old uni friend from the states, Fox Mulder, and his girlfriend, Dana Scully. Fox, Dana, this is my fiance, Lord Jack Tresyllian," she introduced happily. Jack stepped over to shake Mulder's hand in a friendly fashion, his blue eyes twinkling.
"Jolly good to meet you at last, old boy. Tammy's told me about all the cases you've solved, you sound to be quite a crime whiz," he said.
"It's nice to meet you, too. Looks like you've made a good choice, Tammy," Mulder said, smiling. Tamara smiled, and Jack wrapped an arm around her waist for a moment. Then he turned to Scully.
"Welcome to Cornwall, Dana luv!" He swept her up into his arms, and kissed her warmly on the cheek in greeting. Then he turned to Mulder. "You should hang onto this one," he remarked.
"Don't worry, I'm planning on it," Mulder assured him.
"Well, I really have no idea where Dr. Wendish is, but you can chat to him later. I'm sure you'd both like to freshen up for dinner," Tammy interrupted.
"That's fine," Mulder said.
Tammy guided them up one end of the staircase, up into the gallery. Numerous oil paintings of Tresyllian family members hung upon the walls. The butler appeared, carrying two cases.
"The east room?" he questioned Tammy. She nodded. The butler turned to Mulder and Scully. "I will bring your other cases up shortly," he said.
"D'you want some help?" Mulder asked. The butler shook his head.
"He's a dear, old Bolitho," Tammy smiled. She led them into a bedroom, that had a large window at the eastern end. It was decorated in shades of blue, and furnished with lots of antique furniture. There was a cosy fireplace in one corner, and another door led north into what looked like a bathroom. Bolitho followed them in, and placed both cases on the floor. Then he walked back out to get the rest.
"Tammy, this is gorgeous!" Mulder exclaimed. It was even nicer than the hotel in London. He turned to Scully and grinned. "We're being spoilt." She nodded back, and smiled at Tammy.
"Actually, Queen Victoria slept in this room," Tammy said conversationally.
"Great," Mulder said. He shifted from one foot to the other. "Actually Tammy, me and Dana..." he began.
"I know, I know. You want some time alone, before dinner," Tammy grinned. "I'll leave you both to get comfortable. Dinner's at seven, or whenever you hear the gong. Be sure to dress up," she said. Then she walked outside. Mulder turned to look at Scully, who had a self satisfied smile upon her face.
"What was all that about, downstairs?" he questioned.
"What?" Scully asked innocently.
"You, all over me, telling them that you were my girlfriend," Mulder said.
"Oh, that." Scully smiled, and patted Mulder on the shoulder. "I changed my mind. I think it would be fun to act... together," she said.
"You only changed your mind after you saw Phoebe, didn't you?" Mulder remarked knowingly.
"As if she has anything to do with it!" Scully said, folding her arms, and looking annoyed at the mention of her nemesis' name.
"Well, fun as it might be..." Mulder began. Scully sat down on the bed, testing it out.
"Nice bed," she remarked, quickly changing the subject
"It'd be even nicer if I could have it all to myself," Mulder replied, grinning.
"Why..." Scully began, offended.
"You're a blanket thief. And these castles can get very cold, or so I've heard," Mulder interrupted. Scully folded her arms again and frowned.
"And I suppose you only changed your mind too, since you saw Phoebe," she stated, somewhat sulkily.
"Did I?" Mulder said innocently.
"Well, you didn't hesitate to resume things last time... even though we happened to be on a case!" Scully said. She was beginning to sound angry.
"You don't have to get jealous. Besides, I'm not planning to resume things with her, despite what you appear to think," Mulder promised.
"I don't want to be left out," Scully said.
"And you won't be," Mulder replied.
"I just thought... well... Mulder, I hate that woman. I want to pay her back!" Scully exclaimed.
"I thought as much. And... well, fine, but I don't think this is the right way to go about it. Besides Scully, you don't have to babysit me. I'll give her a wide berth, rest assured, if it'll really make you happy," Mulder said. He glanced at his watch. "We might as well start getting ready. You can use the bathroom, and I'll go and sort an extra room with Tammy."
"Okay," Scully said, feeling slightly disappointed. Mulder suddenly leaned forward, and kissed her on the cheek.
"Thanks for coming here with me Scully. I really appreciate it," he said.
"Sure, anytime," Scully replied. Mulder smiled at her, and then walked outside. Scully watched after him, a little upset. Well, that just about confirms he's not interested in me, she thought to herself. She hadn't cared, until she'd seen Phoebe again. Then her old feelings of jealously had began to stir up. Maybe Pendrell's right... maybe I do like Mulder. But it's no use, because he doesn't like me, she thought. His flirting meant absolutely nothing. She had read into things wrong. Shaking her head, she reached into her suitcase, and pulled out the first dress she'd came to. It was a floor length blue gown, with thin straps across a straight neckline. It was made of a soft material she wasn't sure of. It was one of those things she'd bought on impulse, but never had the chance to wear; like most dresses. Mulder had informed that, since they happened to be going to a castle, they should probably take some formal wear. She held it up against herself experimentally, then looked at her watch. She had roughly half an hour before dinner. She quickly headed to the bathroom.
Twenty-five minutes later, she was washed and fully refreshed. Scully walked back into the bedroom, shivering in just the towel. She wondered if she'd be allowed to make up a fire in the fireplace. There didn't appear to be any source of central heating as such. Quickly, she changed into the dress, and modelled herself in front of the full length mirror. Not bad, she thought. It fitted fairly well, a little bit too long, but shoes would solve that problem for her. She found a pair in the bottom of her case, and slipped them on. Finally, she put her gold cross necklace around her neck, and headed towards the door. As she walked outside, she bumped into Mulder, who was coming down from one of the passages, dressed in a smart, black suit. "Ah, just in time. We can walk down together," he said cheerfully.
"I feel a little uncomfortable though, dressed like this," Scully admitted.
"Well if it helps any, this shirt is absolutely choking me," Mulder replied. He paused, looking at her closely for a moment. "Scully, you look great," he finally stated.
"Thanks, but you've seen me dress up before," Scully replied.
"I know, but..." he trailed off, and grinned, a little uneasily. "That dress really suits you," he said. Scully folded her arms.
"Are you trying to say that I look lousy all the other times?" she questioned.
"Nope, you always look great. But especially great in that. Pendrell would probably faint if he saw you," Mulder replied.
"Why does it always have to come down to Pendrell?" Scully demanded.
"Because er... well, he wants you, Scully," Mulder grinned. Scully rolled her eyes.
"Mulder, shut up," she replied, grinning. They headed towards the stairs, just as the dinner gong sounded.
"Maybe I should have worn a jacket..." Scully mused nervously, as they descended down the stairs together. She suddenly paused, noticing Phoebe, along with Vivien and Hyde, walking through the New Great Hall.
"You look fine, stop stressing," Mulder ordered, noticing Phoebe too. She was wearing a short, cranberry silk strapless dress. Vivien meanwhile, wore an elegant black gown. Scully began to feel a little better, seeing everyone else dressed up.
"Better than Phoebe?" she questioned slyly, watching Mulder's expression carefully. He gave her a puzzled glance.
"Scully, are you quite okay?" he asked.
"It was an easy question," she replied, as they reached the bottom of the stairs.
"I know, and, well, I mean, I can't really compare, considering how far away she was. But I meant what I said before Scully, about you looking great. Just... this thing with Phoebe... what's your big problem with her?" Mulder asked.
"I already told you. I don't like her. You know, like you don't like Kersch. Well, I don't like Phoebe," Scully said, sounding slightly patronising.
"Scully, I hate Kersch!" Mulder replied.
"Well, now you can understand just how deep my hatred runs," Scully stated.
"She really isn't that bad, you know," Mulder said. They stopped in the middle of the hall. "They went right, right?" he questioned. Scully shrugged.
"Dunno, wasn't looking. But come on, we might as well head that way," she answered. "And also, Phoebe is very bad. Very bad indeed."
"Scully, c'mon..." Mulder began. They walked through the archway. An appetising smell drifted towards them from a passage that led north. "That way?" he suggested. Scully nodded. They stepped through the doorway, and found themselves in the dining room. It had pale lilac walls, decorated with plaster friezes of cupids at various points. A large mahogany table took up most of the room, along with a matching, upon which was placed array of delicious looking food, and a silver punchbowl. Everyone else was already seated.
"You're a bit late," Phoebe stated smugly.
"Oh nonsense! You're both just in time!" Tammy stated, smiling around at everyone. Several people glanced at their outfits in approval. Iris smiled coyly, and gestured over to the sideboard.
"Should we form a self-serve line at the buffet?" she suggested.
"What a jolly good idea!" Jack stated. Everyone went over to queue up and collect what they wanted.
A few minutes later, they were all seated, not even taking up half of the massive table. Jack took his place at head of the table, Tamara seated at his left side. Mulder and Scully sat together, and Ian and Iris sat at the seats after them. Dr. Wendish sat on Jack's right side, Phoebe was opposite Mulder, and Vivien and Hyde took the seats next to her. Bolitho walked over to Jack, and handed him a note. The lord read it, a troubled expression upon his face. No-one seemed to notice, aside from Mulder. They were all too busy talking amongst themselves. A young woman came in, and served them all some wine. Finally, Jack smiled, and knocked his spoon against his glass, in order to get everyone's attention.
"Well, I'd just like to announce my engagement to this most wonderful, beautiful lady, Tamara Lynd. So er, now you all know," he said, smiling a little nervously.
"I'm really happy for you both," Mulder stated, smiling over at Tammy. She nodded.
"Yes, isn't it just wonderful?"
"It's more than wonderful," Iris remarked, grinning.
"Yep, you're one lucky man, Jack," Ian added.
"You don't have to tell me that, I already know," Jack smiled. He leaned over, and gave Tammy an affectionate kiss on the cheek.
"Hey, you can do that later!" Phoebe chuckled.
"Well, Tamara dear, I'm very glad that you've found such a lovely gentleman to settle down with," Dr. Wendish remarked.
"We wish you all the best luck as well," Vivien said, smiling at her friends.
"I second that," Hyde said. Scully realised that she was the only one who hadn't said anything.
"Er, congratulations," she said shyly. Mulder smiled over at her.
"Well, thanks everyone!" Tammy said happily.
"Yes, and now that the formalities are over, I think we'd better start on this most wonderful meal that the cook has been busy preparing all day!" Jack added. There were murmurs of agreement from all around. Everyone began to eat, and there was a flow of subdued conversation.
"So Fox, what have you been up to in these past years?" Monty questioned.
"Yes, do tell! You haven't written to me for ages!" Tammy added. Mulder put down his fork, and glanced over at Scully. She gave him a look as if to say 'you tell them'. He turned back to his friends.
"Umm... not much. Just er... tracking down criminals and stuff. Nuffin' much interesting," he said, not keen to go into detail too much.
"And you two are still working together? I thought you preferred to work alone," Phoebe said, smirking over at Scully.
"'Course we are. I couldn't do without her," Mulder said truthfully, watching Scully and Phoebe carefully.
"It's just that you told me you thought she..." Phoebe began.
"Things change," Scully said sharply, beginning to feel annoyed again. She knew what Phoebe was trying to say, and she suddenly felt hurt that Mulder had voiced his suspicions about her, to Phoebe. She turned to Mulder.
"What?" he asked innocently.
"Forget it," she replied quietly, noticing that they were getting strange looks from around the table.
"So what about this ghost you have?" Mulder said quickly, steering away from the subject.
"The White Lady?" Jack questioned.
"That's the one," Mulder affirmed.
"Oh, she has haunted Tresyllian Castle for centuries -- a lovely phantom in a white gown, with long pale hair. She was said to be the unfaithful wife of an early Lord Tresyllian, who had her walled up alive in the tower," Jack explained.
"Nice way to pay a cheater," Phoebe smirked.
"But wasn't her husband really awful to her, or something?" Tammy said.
"I can't quite recall the details, but she had an affair with his young nephew," Jack said.
"And she haunts the old tower, seeking a final resting place for her bones and lasting peace for her soul," Hyde said, in an eerie tone.
"Don't be silly, Monty! No-one has ever even seen her," Iris said, giggling.
"I have," Jack stated. Tammy patted him on the arm, then grinned around at the rest of the table.
"Don't listen to him, he's just trying to scare you all!" she laughed.
"You should never discount the supernatural," Mulder stated, rather seriously.
"Mulder..." Scully started warningly.
"Oh, you two still on a second name basis, then?" Phoebe remarked, sounding smug. Scully blushed, and then frowned.
"It's hard to break out of a routine," she said quietly.
"Oh yes, I suppose it's more professional, right?" Iris said, giving her a sympathetic glance.
"But hardly necessary," Phoebe interrupted.
"Weren't we talking about ghosts? And Phoebe, you can lay off 'Dana' right now," Mulder said, emphasising Scully's first name somewhat. "Besides, I hate my first name anyway," he added.
"But it's a lovely first name!" Tammy protested.
"Yes, it's really sweet!" Iris added.
"That's why I don't like it," Mulder said darkly. He turned to look over at Phoebe. She was sulking. Scully, on the other hand, had suddenly brightened up.
"There's no such things as ghosts!" she exclaimed, grinning over at him.
"Wanna bet?" Mulder asked, grinning back. He liked arguing with Scully. She didn't give up easily.
"Excuse me while I point out this isn't your office at the FBI," Phoebe said dryly.
"Oh, shut up Phoebe. It's a good subject to discuss!" Iris said, smiling coyly over at Mulder. He ignored her, too busy grinning at Scully.
"Well, let's keep everyone happy, and discuss it after dinner. Besides, it's almost time for dessert," Jack mentioned. Everybody began to finish up on the main meal, looking forward to the next course.
***
After everyone had finished their meal, everyone rose to go to the sitting room. Normally the gentlemen would remain at the table, to enjoy cigars and port, whilst the women would repair to the drawing room, but tonight, it seemed that the formal air had disintegrated, and a more casual relationship had begun. Once everyone was seated, and chatting away, pretty much about nothing, the topic of the 'White Lady' resurfaced in the conversation. It was Iris who brought up the topic, with a question directed at Jack.
"So Jack, you said before that you had once witnessed the tourist attraction of this place," began Iris, rather coyly. Jack gave her an odd look. Then a faint smile traced his lips, and he gave her a knowing nod and chuckle.
"Oh, that White lady?" he asked. Iris nodded.
"I'm really interested to know about it," she informed him. Jack leaned back, his glass of port in his hand.
"I thought you said it didn't exist," he said, taking a drink of his port.
"I just said no one had ever seen it," explained Iris. Jack gave a thoughtful nod.
"Well, to tell the truth to you all, I only caught was a glimpse of a whitish figure from
the rear. I couldn't even swear it was the white lady; it might've been some white bloke in
drag, you never know, the legend could be wrong," said Jack honestly, ending his sentence with a broad grin. Iris looked highly amused by this comment.
"How about anyone else? Have any of you ever seen it?" asked Fox, bringing himself into the conversation. Vivien shifted in her seat, then gave a sombre reply to the question.
"I dare say it was morbid of me, but one night I went to the basement, just to try to imagine the horrible scene when poor Deirdre suffered her... tragic accident. Suddenly I heard someone calling my name softly. I turned 'round, and there was this figure in a white gown, with long pale hair standing by the stairs! I went absolutely numb! She smiled faintly, then fled up the stairs. I started to follow, but then I knew it was no use. Ghosts, as dreams, are seldom things in life one is able to chase," told the artist wistfully. Tammy looked slightly surprised by this statement, and Fox and Dana felt a little confused. Who was Deirdre for a start.
"Seriously?" asked Jack, his expression turning from jovial to drawn and puzzled. Vivien took a sip of her wine, aware all eyes were on her.
"I saw what I saw Jack. And I would wager it was not the white lady that I saw, but Deirdre," she said coolly. Jack stood up, looking slightly upset.
"You shouldn't make such statements. They are not amusing nor serving any useful purpose," said the Lord sternly. Vivien cast her gaze to the window.
"Would you rather I concealed the fact?" she asked, still keeping her eyes on the window.
"You've certainly kept it quiet until now," said Tammy quietly. Mulder passed Scully a frantic, and uncomfortable look. She knew how he felt.
"I have never been asked before," replied Vivien. Monty stood up an uneasy smile on his face.
"Anyone care to join me in a duet?" he asked, nodding over to the piano. Tammy stood.
"What a marvellous idea," she said over-enthusiastically. She sat down, and picked up the piece of music that lay on the piano.
"Oh really, what is that doing there?" she asked, sounding a little mad.
"What is it dear?" asked Jack, still giving Vivien sidelong glances.
"Funeral March of a Marionette," replied Tammy, placing the sheet back on the piano.
"How morbid," quipped Phoebe.
"It's beyond me of how the thing got there," assured Jack. Tammy shrugged.
"No matter," she said. "What do you know then Monty?" she then asked her would-be music partner.
"Not much, what about you?" he asked.
"Bacarolle," said Tammy with a bashful grin.
"Bacarolle it is then," said Monty as the two began to play. Meanwhile Jack stood up.
"I have some business to attend to," he announced, before shortly reading the room. Mulder cast another glance at his FBI partner. He looked at Vivien, who was still concentrating on the darkness on the other side of the glass.
"If you don't mind me asking, who was Deirdre?" he asked boldly. Vivien turned, and the music stopped as Tammy turned her head also. The two woman glanced at each other. On an unspoken agreement, Vivien was the first to speak.
"She was Jack's wife-to-be, until a terrible accident, which involved her plummeting down the well in the basement of this castle to her death. She was a wonderful woman, and a dear friend of mine," said Vivien plainly.
"I never really knew her," said Tammy, sounding a little uncomfortable.
"Oh, I knew Deirdre. Everyone knew her and Jack knew those two were meant to be together. It's tragic really," piped up Iris loudly. This comment was followed by an uncomfortable and lengthy silence.
"An accident?" asked Mulder. Vivien broke from her remorseful expression, it turned more angry, harsh, from her usual placid expression.
"Oh, that's what they say. But I have no doubt it was a little more than that," said Vivien. Mulder looked surprised.
"What? You mean..." he began, pausing when Dana shot him a warning look.
"Murder? Yes, that was what I would describe it as," said Vivien snappily.
"There was a full investigation. What happened was clearly an accident dear," said Phoebe. Vivien glanced up at a painting above the fireplace.
"That's her," she murmured, looking at the portrait. Mulder glanced up, noticing the piece of work for the first time. It depicted a lovely young woman with flowing blonde hair, standing on a grassy slope, gazing out to sea. It was painted in pastel tones, which emphasised the woman's violet eyes. Mulder found something ethereal and fairylike about her. "Ironically, her silvery white, sleeveless gown is the very one she was wearing at the time of her accident," added Vivien quietly.
"Did you paint that?" asked Mulder. She nodded. "What makes you think she was murdered?" pushed Mulder, unable to resist questioning. Vivien shrugged, casting Phoebe a wary glance.
"I have my reasons, ones that I would rather not disclose, in the presence of some...people," she said, her words chosen carefully.
"Only because you know that we could all discount every one of your reasons," said Phoebe. She glanced across at Mulder. "Don't even think about pursuing her ideas, you're on holiday now Fox," she warned. Mulder gave a casual shrug.
"Why? You scared us Americans could turn up something you Brits never did?" he asked. Phoebe looked particularly offended by his remark.
"I didn't investigate this particular case, but I saw the reports Fox. It was an accident, pure and simple," stated Phoebe.
"You ever find the body?" asked Mulder.
"No, but evidence was found that suggested she had indeed fallen down that well," said Phoebe. Mulder leapt up at this.
"Suggest? And you people were satisfied with that? You need to have more than merely suggestive evidence!" said Mulder passionately.
"Mulder, we aren't in the office," said Scully wearily, hoping this whole thing wasn't going to lead to some bizarre investigation.
"Exactly," said Phoebe, surprised at herself for actually agreeing on something with the red-haired agent. Mulder looked at the two woman, then leaned back, defeated. Tammy and Monty began to play again at the piano. Mulder stood up.
"I might go for a walk," he announced, before leaving. Scully considered going with him, then decided, and stood up, following him from the room.
"Mulder, wait!" Scully called, quickly rushing out into the passage after him. He stopped, and turned.
"Scully..." he began. She walked over, and put a hand on his arm.
"Look Mulder, you said it yourself. This is supposed to be a holiday," she said softly. He pushed her hand away.
"It's all a bit suspicious though, isn't it?" he stated, gazing imploringly at her. She shook her head.
"The case is closed and buried. So, a woman fell down a well. It probably happens all the time," Scully replied rationally.
"But they way they were all acting..." Mulder began.
"Stop reading into it. It's their business, not ours," Scully said firmly. Mulder frowned at her.
"Scully... someone died here, possibly murdered. Tammy, or anyone else for that matter, could be in terrible danger!" he exclaimed.
"Now you're going over the top," Scully stated. Mulder suddenly turned, and began to walk back towards the New Great Hall. Scully followed him once more.
"Leave me alone, Scully. I need some air," Mulder said. He disappeared towards the foyer.
"So do I," Scully said, even though he was out of earshot. She headed outside. Mulder was stood in the in the middle of the courtyard, looking up at the moon. It wasn't quite full. An eerie mist had begun to descend all around, and the sound of the waves crashing was close at hand. He looked over at Scully, her slight figure looking vulnerable in the light from above the front door. She suddenly wrapped her arms around herself, obviously cold.
"Come back inside," she called. Mulder shook his head. She walked over. "Look, I'm sorry, Mulder. But..."
"Doesn't matter. Don't apologise," Mulder interrupted.
"It sure is cold," Scully finally noted. Mulder nodded.
"This is England, you know," he smiled. He gestured for her to come closer. She did, and he wrapped an arm around her bare shoulders. "It's very atmospheric out here," he added.
"This mist is a little creepy. Almost makes you think a ghost could be hanging out round here someplace," Scully replied, glancing around with interest.
"Oh, so you admit it? Ghosts do exist?" Mulder grinned.
"No... I said 'almost', Mulder," Scully replied, grinning back.
"You're tough, Scully. But one day..." Mulder promised, smiling to himself.
"Not in your lifetime," Scully retorted, still smiling. They both stood in silence for a while, listening to the sound of the waves. Finally, Mulder spoke.
"Maybe we ought to go check out that well," he suggested.
"Mulder, we're not at work. We're here to relax, and enjoy ourselves, not solve closed murder mysteries," Scully said.
"I guess you have a point. But I still want to look around, at least," Mulder replied. He suddenly grinned. "Come on, aren't you dying to check this place out?" he questioned. Scully smiled wryly, and looked down at the ground.
"Honestly Mulder, sometimes..."
"Admit it Scully, you love me really," Mulder grinned. If only you knew... Scully thought to herself, still looking downwards.
"I'm not admitting to anything," she replied, a little coyly. "Anyway, it's cold," she added, shivering a little. Mulder smiled at her, and nodded.
"Yeah, come on. Let's go inside," he said.
The two agents walked indoors together, and Scully paused in the foyer to check her watch. It was a little past 9.30pm.
"You know Mulder, it's getting late, and we had a long journey..." she began.
"And you need an early night?" Mulder questioned. He patted her on the shoulder. "You never did enjoy plane journeys, did you?" he said, slightly sympathetic.
"I guess not," Scully conceded.
"Well okay. I'll walk you up to your room," Mulder offered.
"Thanks," Scully replied. She felt a little disappointed, for some reason. She wasn't really sure why. Maybe it was Mulder's seemingly lack of interest towards her, as a potential love interest. It was something she thought about sometimes, only sometimes. Most of the time, she dismissed it. But since they'd arrived at the castle, she hadn't been able to stop pondering it. Every time he complimented her, such as the way he had when he'd seen her in the dress, she grew a little hopeful that perhaps he did find her as attractive as she found him. But all through dinner, Iris and Phoebe had flirted with him, and when he'd paid them even the slightest bit of attention, she'd felt jealous. She sighed audibly, as they walked into the New Great Hall. Mulder paused.
"Is something wrong?" he questioned.
"Nothing," Scully said quickly. "I'm just tired, that's all, like I said before," she added. Mulder reached up and loosened the collar of his shirt.
"Been dying to do that all night," he grinned. "Maybe I'll turn in early, as well." They walked across to the stairs. "Then again, I don't want all those English people to think us Americans are pathetic," he joked.
"Well, we'll show them who can stay up later tomorrow," Scully smiled. They'd had enough practice, during cases, and when doing reports.
"Good point," Mulder agreed, as they started to ascend the staircase. "That's the great thing about England. All these beautiful houses," he remarked. Scully nodded.
"It is beautiful, but still, I'm afraid to touch anything!" she exclaimed.
"Yeah. I guess some of this stuff must be worth thousands of dollars," Mulder stated, looking thoughtfully at one of the portraits in the gallery that was situated at the top of the stairs. He began to walk closer to it, a puzzled expression on his face.
"Mulder? What are you doing?" Scully questioned, noticing his action. Mulder leaned right up close to the painting, almost pressing his face against it. A few seconds later, he turned back to Scully.
"Come and take a look at this, Scully," he said, pointing at the rather drab portrait. She walked over to see what he was talking about. The picture was of a serious looking man, dressed in old-fashioned clothing. It had obviously darkened over the years. Scully didn't notice anything remarkable about it.
"What?" she asked.
"There's like a little peephole in one of the eyes. It looks like there might be some sort of hiding space behind the picture, only I can't see inside, because there's no light. But there's definitely a gap," he stated, pointing. Scully took a look through, and then stepped back.
"It's a weird place to have such a device. I thought they were always in bedrooms and things," Scully said. Mulder shrugged.
"Dunno. Maybe there's something behind the picture," he suggested, pulling the painting to one side.
"Mulder, be careful!" Scully immediately said. He never seemed to have any qualms about anything. She watched nervously, as he let the painting drop. It swung for a few seconds, then rested in its former position.
"Just a peephole," he said, sounding disappointed.
"Well, aren't these old places always full of them?" Scully asked.
"Always full of what?" came a familiar voice. Mulder and Scully turned to see Phoebe walking out of one of the bedrooms. Scully frowned, but the Scotland Yard inspector beamed brightly at the pair.
"Full of old paintings," Mulder quipped quickly, before Scully could reply.
"Well, it is a mansion, no, a castle, you know," Phoebe stated, rather patronisingly, looking at Scully in particular.
"We know that," Scully said shortly. She glanced over at Mulder, but he looked lost off in thought. He wasn't really paying any attention. She felt pleased for a moment, glad that he was ignoring his old flame.
"Oh, no need to be so touchy. It's just, you Americans are often rather naive about old-fashioned British living. I mean, Tresyllian Castle was probably built before America was discovered," Phoebe smirked.
"How interesting," Scully said, beginning to feel annoyed. Phoebe really was full of it. Scully felt like slapping her across the face, but she managed to restrain herself.
"Well, you don't have anything old in America, really. Such a shame for you, history at school must have been so boring," Phoebe stated.
"It was okay," Scully said, frowning somewhat.
"Well I'm most sorry, but your country happens to be the very definition of boring," Phoebe replied cuttingly.
"To you, maybe, but then you must lead a very isolated life working on silly, petty crimes, at least the FBI deals with real problems," Scully retorted. Phoebe went silent, simply glaring in anger. Scully knew what she'd said wasn't that true, but it had obviously worked.
"Too cold for you both outside?" Phoebe finally questioned, her expression changing from seething to smug again.
"Not really. But we both felt like an early night," Mulder suddenly spoke up, snapping out of his private reverie.
"Oh," Phoebe said, looking surprised.
"Yep, so we'll see you tomorrow morning," Mulder said. He walked over to Scully's room, and opened the door for her. She smiled sweetly at Phoebe.
"Goodnight, Phoebe," she remarked, before walking towards the door. Mulder walked in behind her, obviously to talk, and on purpose, she pulled the door shut behind them, leaving a very surprised Phoebe stood out in the passageway, alone. The inspector stood there for a while, feeling annoyed about Scully, and finally, bored, she decided to head back downstairs to talk to the rest of her friends.
"What was all that about?" asked Mulder as Scully stood calmly in front of the door. His partner smiled innocently.
"Nothing," she assured him, her head leaning slightly to one side. Mulder shot her a quizzical expression.
"So it was nothing to do with the fact that you want to give a certain someone the wrong impression about the two of us?" asked Mulder, grinning. Scully stepped away from the door, a look of absolute bafflement.
"Whatever gave you that idea Mulder?" she asked, half laughing. Mulder smiled concedingly.
"Ah nothing. Just another crazy notion of mine," he said good-naturedly. They stood gazing at one another for a second or two, until Mulder broke the spell, almost too casually. He flashed a winning smile, then drawled his infamous, "See ya later Scully," before swiftly opening the door and leaving.
"Yeah, see you Mulder," sighed Scully after him. She waited a few moments before walking over to her bed and sitting on it tiredly. She supposed it had been a long day. The bed was soft and welcoming. She rubbed her eyes and stood up, resolving to have a nice bath, before turning in.
Mulder opened the door to his room and walked in, stripping off his tie and throwing it to the floor as he did so. He shrugged off his jacket, and found a chair to rest it on, then sat on the bed, and set to work at removing his shoes. As he did so, he happened to glance up, at a wall length mirror opposite his bed. He pulled off one shoe and stood up, walking towards the mirror. He didn't once glance at his reflection however, just at the intricately ornate frame that surrounded it. He traced one finger along it thoughtfully, and frowned. Seconds later, the mirror opened inwards, revealing a dark passage beyond. He let out a small laugh of triumph, and glanced down at his watch. He supposed it wasn't that late, and what harm would a little exploring do? He would go and tell Scully but he didn't really want to disturb her now, he did that to her too many times back in the states. He walked back to the bed and slipped on his discarded shoe, then began to root through his suitcase, trying to locate the torch he was certain he had packed. A few minutes and a pile of scattered clothes later, Mulder found his trusty torch and flicked it on. He walked forwards and through the mirror, into the opening beyond.
He found himself in a narrow secret passage that was musty and draped with cobwebs. The passage led both north and south, and there was a lever in the wall to Mulder's left. Upon inspection, Mulder saw in the dim light a narrow stairway, snaking downwards into a thick, velvet-like darkness, that even Mulder's torch had trouble penetrating. Rubbing his jaw, Mulder looked down one passage, then the next, his beam cutting into the darkness ahead. Finally he decided to head south. As he strolled along, in a casual, laid-back fashion, he came to a halt when he heard another sound, different to those of his own. As soon as he stopped, so did they, so the agent carried on, putting it down to the echoing walls of the castle. Finally, after a brief walk, he noticed another lever in the wall to his left. The passage continued on, but Mulder was curious. He wasn't entirely sure where he was, but he went ahead and yanked the lever anyway. Light suddenly flooded around the edges of the secret door, almost blinding Mulder's light absent eyes. In a second he was used to it though, and he slowly pushed open the door. He stepped through into the room, and realised he was back in Scully's room. The secret door closed silently behind him. Wearing a half smile on his face, Mulder then realised his FBI partner was not in her bed, that remained made. At the moment though, the bathroom door clicked open, and Scully emerged, wearing nothing more than a towel. She looked at Mulder in amazement, and surprise, and quickly wrapped her arms around herself to prevent the towel from sliding down any further than she wished it to.
"Mulder!" she scolded in a bemused tone. Mulder smiled back.
"Uh..." he began, but Scully wasn't listening. She grabbed her nightshirt from the bed, which had been carefully laid out, and retreated back into the bathroom, closing it behind her. "Scully!" Mulder protested. There was a tap at the door, and before Mulder could say anything the door opened. He turned to see Tammy, who looked a little flustered, upon discovering him there.
"Oh, hi there Fox. Phoebe told me you two had turned in, I was just coming to see if, um, Dana was settling in alright," she said. Mulder began to answer, when the bathroom door opeed, and Scully emerged, buttoning up her night shirt.
"Mulder, don't you try that again," began Scully, before looking up and realising they had company.
"Uh, hi," said Tammy, giving Scully a small wave. Scully smiled, feeling a little embarrassed.
"Hi," she returned.
"I just, er, popped along to see if everything was fine, but it looks as though you're getting on just fine," said Tammy, shifting from one foot to the other, glancing from her friend Fox, to Dana. Scully smiled back, giving Mulder a hasty glance.
"Yeah, I am thanks," said Scully.
"Oh well, I suppose I'll be seeing the two of you in the morning. You know, you could've shared a room you know, it's not like you have to sneak around or anything," began Tammy quickly. Scully smiled a little.
"Oh, no, it isn't anything like that. Us two, we're just friends. This isn't how it looks," she assured. Tammy looked faintly embarrassed.
"Oh, now you'll think I'm terrible for jumping to conclusions," she said, sounding a little upset.
"It's fine really. I can see how you would've got to it, I don't even know how Mulder got in here myself," said Scully. The two women turned to Mulder. He smiled and shrugged.
"Uh, it's just," he paused. He didn't really want to tell Tammy about the secret passage, because then everyone would know. "There was just something I needed to tell Scu, er I mean Dana," said Mulder with a confident nod. He leaned down and gave Tammy a peck on the cheek, before showing her out. When she had said her goodbye's, he turned to Scully, who was watching him expectantly. She raised her eyebrows. Mulder closed the door.
"I found a secret passage!" he told her. Scully cast her gaze around the room, saying nothing, as if to say, 'Where?'. Mulder walked over to the section of the wall he had entered, and pushed it, but nothing happened. There was a mirror on the other side of the room, but Mulder didn't think that was the trigger. "Well, I came in through here, you can come to my room if you want, at least until we figure out how to open the passage from this side," suggested Mulder. Scully cast Mulder a hazy-eyed apologetic glance.
"Maybe tomorrow, I'm feeling a little sleepy," she said.
"And lazy," grinned Mulder. He stepped forward, and gave her a friendly peck on the cheek. "Ya know Scully, I don't think I've ever told you, you don't look half bad in night wear," he complimented cheekily. Scully gave him a playful swot on the shoulder, despite being secretly pleased.
"And I don't think I've ever told you what a jerk you are," she said.
"Don't worry, you have. Plenty of times," Mulder assured her. He flashed her another grin, then waved goodnight as he left, leaving Scully finally in peace. She walked to the wall and examined it before finally giving up and climbing under the big, thick quilt that lay atop her bed, and dozing off into a peaceful and dreamless sleep.
