Concept date: 15th March, 2017
First published: 16th August, 2017
Status: COMPLETED.
First published: 16th August, 2017
Status: COMPLETED.
Version: STANDARD.
Age recommendation: 15+
Average Reading Time: Approximately 30 Minutes.Revisions: 3. [Last Edit: November 2018]
Angel-in-charge: Margret Team Assigned: Team 74
Human Time: 1905AD-1322AH Mission: 826791 - 8 - 1531 |
| "THE IMPOSSOBLE FILMS OF MISS STOCKYARD CANNING." |
NOTES: This episode contains strong language and horror with very strong sexual references.
The BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE [BFI] maintains collections of films - new and old - on behalf of the nation. They have a wonderful and interesting website including how they restore old films, like those proposed in this story. Please check it out HERE:
"This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead or actual events is purely coincidental." The Author.
1. OLD FILMS.
Jericho was reading the New York Times, relaxed in his favourite armchair by the fireplace. He sipped whisky and smiled to himself; the paper was dated June 16, 1933, with President Roosevelt opening his 'New Deal' recovery program, signing bank, rail, and industry bills and initiating farm aid ."One for the history books." he muttered, looking up as the door opened into his study.
“I see you’re up to date with all the modern events!” Alex flopped into the chair opposite and smiled broadly – she knew that Jericho made a point of reading old newspapers, looking for anything reported that could be considered ‘out of the ordinary’. “I think you may want to read this interesting little article that I found in a copy of the London Times – just a few days ago.” Alex added, pulling the newspaper from her handbag and dropping it on Jericho’s lap.
Jericho picked it up slowly and glanced at the page Alex had opened the paper at – he quickly placed down his glass and read the article with great interest. It appears that four old film canisters had been found in the basement of a derelict shop in London, during building refurbishment and the films apparently date from the early Edwardian era – well the actual rolls of films were made at that time. But for their content; that was something else.
Jericho read that the films had been forwarded to the British Film Institute for study and restoration. Experts had concluded that the film reels were genuine, from around 1903/4 and they could even identify the make and model of the camera that was used – also from the early period of the Edwardian era.
But they were totally at a loss to explain the actual film content of all four films. One apparently showed Napoleon Bonaparte on the march with his troops in Belgium: in 1814. Another apparently covered the battle of Agincourt which took place in 1415, whilst the remaining two films showed Roman Galleys unloading soldiers and supplies from a Thames River landing stage in 19 BC and the final film purported to show a young King Henry VIII at a party in 1510, apparently held at a Tudor Hampton Court Palace.
All films held impossible content and the experts decided that these reels were very early ‘movies’ and they were catalogued as such. But there was one dissenting voice against this neat conclusion; a ‘conspiracy theory’ writer called Hoagy Tredwell had published several articles on various consiracy websites, claiming they were in fact; genuine.
Alex pointed out to Jericho, that Mr. Tredwell had quite a compelling argument for their authenticity and she tapped that part of the article which quoted Mr. Tredwell's evidence - Jericho read that part with real interest.
"I like the quote from Professor Marks, the BFI's restoration expert; 'They appear totally genuine, but are completely impossible!' - Jericho nodded and rubbed his chin, adding; "Little wonder they classified them as early 'movies' or historical drama documentary's."
“Tredwell makes some superb points; especially the fact, that the four films needed hundreds of extras, hundreds of costumes and serious money just to stage them. He also points out that the film’s maker [whose name appeared on the faded canister labels] a ‘Miss Stockyard Canning’ has never been heard of in the Film and Photography industry; back then or even now; well not until these films were discovered!” She smiled broadly, especially when Mr. Harris arrived with a tray of tea.
Alex accepted a cup from the ever attentive Mr. Harris, adding; "Had such ‘movies’ really been staged in 1903 or 1904, there would be contemporary references all over the place; in papers, magazines and early books on the moving pictures industry – but there is absolutely nothing. Miss Canning would have been immortalised as one of the leading pioneers of the movie industry; particularly as a woman back then, but there is nothing about her or her films. Now that’s a real enigma, don’t you think?”
Jericho placed the paper on the coffee table and sipped his whisky; deep in thought. “Well, we can soon find out if they are real or just early movies. A trip to...” He picked up the paper and read the date: “Monday 5th July, 2021.”
“You intend that we travel to 2021 and view the evidence?” Alex sipped her tea and pushed back into her chair. Jericho nodded and said quietly; “We have met both Napoleon and King Henry – we will soon know if they are just actors or the real thing.” He smiled and lifted his glass adding; “We don’t need the full team – yet.”
2. UNPLEASANT MEMORIES.
Alex sighed; “Well, as long as we don’t have to meet Henry Tudor again, I’ll be quite happy to pay a visit to old London.” That made Jericho chuckle, when he recalled their trip to 1515, investigating the finding of a wrist watch in the crypt of Sir Edward Wallington, who had died in that year. His tomb had lain untouched for over five hundred years, but had been moved to allow for a new high speed railway link and when the coffin was opened; the mysterious item was discovered.
The pair had ‘bumped’ into the young King Henry at the funeral and if the King had his way; English [and world history] would have changed – not the best outcome for Temporal Detectives sworn to maintain the ‘Time-Line’ of humanity!
Alex actually blushed a little, when she remembered how the young King had pursued her around the small Kent town and simply wouldn’t take no for an answer – he was totally besotted by her beauty and charm. He even told her that he didn’t mind that she was intelligent and educated!
“That could have been very embarrassing; trying to explain to Angel Margret how you became Queen of England and changed history.” Jericho allowed himself another chuckle, but dropped the subject when he saw the look upon Alex's face. Nevertheless, he smiled to himself and swallowed down the remains of the whisky as he recalled Napoleon had also taken a shine to Alex; but at least he took the hint that Alex was not interested in becoming his mistress or being made a Duchess for ‘services’ rendered!
Her husband; Count Henri Cappanni had been a very lucky man indeed to gain the love of such a woman Jericho mused and accepted a refill from Mr. Harris.
Just for a moment, in his mind’s eye, the face of Elizabeth appeared; smiling with her sharp blue eyes shining and her little mouth creasing into a wide grin. Her dark hair curled around her face, as if pushed by a gentle wind and Jericho reached out to push it away.
“Are you alright Jericho? “ Asked Alex with a little concern in her voice, as she watched Jericho’s hand pass through empty air. He snapped back from the beautiful day dream and smiled.
“I’ll submit a report to Angel Margret and get Owen to look up the records for ‘Miss Stockyard Canning’ – which is a really unusual name for a woman in the early 20th Century.” Jericho tapped the glass with his finger and wondered why a Time traveller would film their visits and then hide the evidence away in some old shop’s basement. He already knew one fact; that they must be from the early 20th Century because they used its technology – if they can travel through time; surely they would have used some modern form of video recording and not a cumbersome and indiscreet camera from the early days of film?
Does this mean they only have the ability to travel backwards? Having just the means to jump backwards normally indicated a natural tear in the fabric of time and such a portal would only be locked to one specific time and place. But according to the newspaper, the films had been shot in four different era’s. If they proved to be genuine, then a very rare thing had occurred; a natural portal that allowed multiple journeys and that would make it a priority to find and close. Jericho recalled that he had only ever heard of two previous occasions with such a phenomena and the Time-Line had been in serious danger of change with both.
So it was agreed that Jericho and Alex would jump to 2021 and view the films which were apparently available on the ‘Internet’ at the time. A simple viewing would answer the really important question; was a time traveller operating in the early 20th century?
Mr. Parker emerged from beneath the coffee table and rubbed himself against Alex's ankle boots and received several strokes in return. "I see Owen has been grooming the cat again; he's fur is almost shinning." Alex commented and Jericho grunted in reply; his mind was elsewhere and seeing the cat with Alex; had bought back some unwanted memories.
3. LONDON; JULY 5th 2021.
Jericho and Alex crossed the road when the little green man showed on the traffic light opposite. "I hate these time periods. I mean, after civilisation really ended in 1914. Look at this shite." He gestured towards the lines of vehicles waiting at the traffic lights. Alex chuckled; "I do see what you mean. I long for the quiet warm days of summer in Cappanni, watching over my children and reading in the shade. Simple days and simple pleasures - wonderful."
Jericho nodded his agreement to that statement and pointed out the small shop on the corner; 'Ali & Dave's kebab and Internet café'. "We can view the films on the BFI's website in there." He fumbled about in his jacket pockets and found the thick brown envelope that contained a portion of money from this era. Both he and Alex were dressed for the period; wearing jackets and jeans in the warm sunshine.
They wandered into the shop and booked half and hour on one of the three computers, which were located at the rear. They were the only people working the computers and so they found the BFI site quickly. Alex moved the mouse about as Jericho pointed out the pages to visit. "This is quite good fun." She murmured.
Firstly, they viewed the two minute film about King Henry VIII which purported to have been shot in 1510. They both went silent as the young King appeared, dancing with a very stern looking lady. "Shit." Was all Jericho said; it was indeed the King himself - the film was genuine.
They viewed the other three films and commented that Napoleon had lost a little weight since they last saw him. Alex actually turned away from the battle scenes in the Agincourt film - being real they were not for the faint-hearted - with heads and limbs flying about the place.
But the Roman's landing on the Thames wharfs provided a little clue; it appears there were two camera's working the scene. Just for a few seconds, on the other bank of the river, you could make out two persons [one female; maybe] filming from across the river.
"That one is worth a closer look back at the Lighthouse." Alex commented to Jericho, but his his smile had gone. They now had at least three people loose in the current human time line. Alex downloaded the films onto her mirror and the pair left the shop. As they walked down the street, moving through the people on the pavement, Jericho said quietly to Alex; "We're being followed by those two men who were watching us in the shop." She nodded; "I know, they watched us the whole time and left when we did."
"I think they became particularly interested when I opened the envelope of money and paid for our time on the computer." Jericho jerked a thumb towards the alley entrance, which had appeared on their left. "Down there I think and home." He added, grinning.
Alex glanced down the little alley and said softly; "They also saw what we were watching Jericho." He nodded his agreement with that and said; "Now!"
The two following were caught completely unaware as Alex and Jericho suddenly dived into the alley. They rushed forward, one pulling a hunting knife from under his jumper and the other; what appeared to be a large mobile phone.
They stood alone in the alley - their quarry had simply disappeared from a dead-end alley with no doors and windows. The brick wall that closed the alley off was about ten feet in height, topped with wire - simply impossible to climb in the given time. They both stood in silence and the younger man cursed loudly and told his companion to hide the knife.
He lifted the black rectangular object to his face and tapped at the screen. The pair disappeared, leaving the alley quiet and empty. Standing in the entrance was a tall, dark haired young woman; she lowered the small concealed hand camera and smiled; "We've Brice and Ellis on film now." She started to walk back to the dark van waiting on double yellow lines and her college, who stood with the side door slightly open. "Who the fuck was the other man and woman?" he asked and climbed in - she followed and the door slid shut - they sat studying the film being replayed and watched the four people disappear; apparently into thin air.
Special Agent Louise Sturdiski popped some chewing gum into her mouth and spoke softly in her southern American accent; "Who ever that couple is; if Brice & Ellis are after them, then they are of interest to us."
Her English companion sighed; "Are you sure that you and the rest of the NSA, are coming completely clean with us poor Brits about these time terrorists from the fucking future?" She grinned and shook her head; "Can't say Micky, even my bosses don't have the whole picture. This new pair used a totally different transportation device - it looks like a mirror - I definitely think they don't belong around here."
Micky slid his chair in front of the computer screen and tapped away, transferring the images from Louise's camera to their database. Louise sat at his shoulder, as she felt the van pull away and join the traffic. Micky said; "Fuck!" with real frustration and added; "Facial Recognition can find no trace on the unknown male, which is really fucking unusual and the useless database has identified the woman as some Italian tart from the 1790's - her painting is on-line in some old villa in Southern Italy!"
Louise told Micky to pull the details up and read with interest about Countess Alexandra Mary Cappanni who had died in 1801 at the age of 27 during a difficult and protracted childbirth – but the child had survived. Louise noted that the woman who had disappeared; was the spitting image of the long dead Countess.
"Maybe she's an ancestor of the Italian bird and inherited her genes and looks - totally." Micky offered in explanation. But Louise shook her head; "No, we would have her on the database and the software would have pulled her up and not her bloody ancestor."
"There's something wrong here Micky. The software is good; if it says that's the woman and 99% of the time, it is right, then who the hell is she?" Louise sighed and slumped back in her seat as the van threaded through London traffic, heading back to the MI6 building. "Who the fuck are they and what are they doing here? We know that only the living from the future can travel back - the already dead [like the woman] cannot go anywhere. So how the hell did she get here?"
Micky shrugged his shoulders and grinned; "We're just getting what the pair viewed in that Internet café and its some old films from the English Edwardian era." He tapped his screen and both watched the films playing on the BFI site.
She and Micky exchanged concerned looks; "Why the fuck is everybody suddenly interested in these crappy old films?" Micky spoke quietly and Louise could offer no explanation - not yet anyway. They were exactly the same films that Brice & Ellis had watched in the café not twenty minutes earlier!
4. HOAGY TREDWELL - KING OF CONSPIRACY.
Alex smiled at Wilson and shook her head; “Hard day was it?” Owen chuckled; “His done bugger all except study for the Inspectors exam.” Jericho stood by the fire place and asked Owen what he had found out about the mysterious Miss Stockyard Canning.
Owen was waiting in the study when Alex and Jericho returned to the lighthouse; he sipped a brandy and re-read the contents of the brown paper file. Wilson was sprawled in a very comfortable armchair and dozing.
Alex smiled at Wilson and shook her head; “Hard day was it?” Owen chuckled; “His done bugger all except study for the Inspectors exam.” Jericho stood by the fire place and asked Owen what he had found out about the mysterious Miss Stockyard Canning.
Owen handed him the folder; “Well, surprisingly enough Miss Stockyard Canning did exist. Born in 1881 in New York City to a very rich cattle and mining family, her father named his only daughter after the stockyards that made him rich. But apparently she always used her second name; Brice. She was into photography and the new moving pictures – she certainly had the money to indulge in whatever she wanted – daddy’s favourite little girl wanted for nothing.
But she travelled to London in 1905 on some sort of photographic expedition with one of her brothers [she had four] and near Christmas that year simply vanished. A massive reward [for the time] was offered, but she never was found. The really interesting part is that according to Records; her soul is listed as missing to this day.”
Wilson shifted and stood up, stretching and bending; “So she could have lost her soul to some demon on the prowl, but Demon Ingress have no records of any demon at that time and place. Which means two other choices; she died in another time and so her soul was lost or she’s still alive and moving through different time periods and simply hasn’t died yet!”
Jericho nodded his agreement with that; “Well the films are genuine enough, so our Miss Stockyard must possess the ability to travel through any human time period. That makes her a priority to find and take possession of the time controlling device or close the natural portal she must be using.”
Alex held up her mirror; “I think we need a closer look at those films, but I’ll skip the Agincourt one thank you.” Mr. Harris appeared and announced dinner and everyone headed for the dining room.
Hoagy Tredwell wiped the sweat from his face with the sleeve of his shirt and sipped a little lukewarm coffee, staring at the pair sitting in front of him. His legs were shaking a little and his mouth was constantly dry – it wasn’t everyday that two of God’s temporal detectives appeared in your basement office, stopped time and insisted you answer their questions.
The big, powerful Black man in the seventies suit was pleasant enough, but Jason believed you wouldn’t want to cross him. The strange boy dressed like a medieval monk, seemed harmless and he wrote everything down – missing nothing.
“That’s it really, sir.” Hoagy held up both hands and shrugged his shoulders; he had explained everything he had discovered about the films, Miss Stockyard Canning and her disappearance, including the part her fiancé, Professor Ellis Goodfield may have played in it. Despite their age differences, the pair had apparently fallen in love and ran away together. Jason nervously laughed; “I suppose not so where, but when!” The look he received from Wilson made him gulp and he hastily unlocked a bottom drawer on his desk.
He pulled a couple of photographs from a brown envelope and showed them to Wilson and Owen. One showed Miss Canning and her ‘Fiancé’ posing for their engagement in September 1905. “She’s very pretty isn’t she?” Hoagy asked Wilson, but Owen chuckled; “Not a patch on our Alex.”
The second apparently showed the pair on a ski holiday in Austria; next to a brand new Land rover – the year was 1997. They had not aged a week.
“I used facial recognition software, really good quality stuff and it matched the pair at 95% - which means, unless they’re doppelgangers, the ski pair are this pair!” He tapped the engagement photo and grinned; he was a little more relaxed now. “They’re using the married name of Wells; Mr. & Mrs. Ellis and Brice Wells.” Hoagy clasped his hands together; “I knew I was right about bloody time-travellers, but I’ve not published any of that – yet.”
Wilson nodded his thanks and rose to leave, with Owen pushing his notebook into the folds of his robes. Hoagy slowly eased from his chair and nervously gripped the desk; “You know about the strange stories that surround her father and the family?”
Wilson and Owen exchanged glances and sat back down. ”No, but please enlighten us.” Owen said quietly, pulling his note book back out.
Hoagy remained standing and wiped his face again; “Well, rumours at the time [1881] say that old man Canning never did have a daughter, but a very sickly son who died and he replaced the dead boy with a girl child – a changeling – because he always wanted a daughter and being so fucking rich; he got whatever he wanted. The rumours persisted for years, appearing in underground magazines and comics; they never surfaced again after she disappeared. The brother; Frederick, never went home and its rumoured he travelled to Germany and became a prominent member of the New Nazi party, when they formed in the 1920’s. Apparently he could speak fluent German and even fought for the Kaiser in the Great War. No one knows what became of him after the fall of Nazi Germany in 1945 – his German name is not known.”
Owen and Wilson thanked young Hoagy Tredwell and disappeared; turning time back on – Thus, the time they that had spent in the basement had not existed. Hoagy found himself sitting at his desk with no idea about what just happened or who had been talking to him.
5. HAMPTON COURT PALACE; AUGUST 3rd 1510.
“Records confirm that Frederick George Canning’s soul is also listed as missing; his mortal remains have never been discovered. But in the Nazi era, Germany had plenty of demons hanging about the place. So, anything could have happened to it.” Owen closed the file and shifted in his armchair.
Jericho sat deep in thought and sighed loudly; “We all viewed the film about Henry VIII and it was Wilson’s sharp eyes that caught the Well’s in attendance, suitability dressed for the period. But who was doing the filming? We definitely have another person loose in the Time-Line, working in conjunction with them. But it does offer us a chance to confront the pair – she [Miss Stockyard Canning] made the silly mistake of writing the date upon the film canister; August 3rd 1510. So we know they will be there at that date and that’s where we’re headed!”
Alex was definitely not looking forward to ‘bumping’ into young Henry [he would be 19 at the time and had been King for a year] and muttered that she needed time to grow a beard! That did make the team chuckle and with some smiles, made the jump to England in 1510.
Arrangements for the team to gain access to the Kings party had been made by Temporal Detective Inspector ‘Doc’ Silas Underhill’s human agent for the time period; Sir Edward Wallington, who was part of the Kings entourage.
Sir Edward was tall for the age and must have been about forty years old, with a black beard and dark green eyes. For a noble man, he was noted as a scholar and deeply pious man; good to the poor. But he did have an unfair advantage over most at the Royal court; he actually knew that God did, indeed, exist!
Jericho, of course, didn't mention attending Sir Edward's funeral in just five years time or ask if he possessed an item from the 'Hereafter' - the wrist watch apparently found in his tomb some five hundred years later - that could wait for another time.
He greeted the team, as they arrived at his apartments in Hampton Court Palace. He hugged Jericho like a long lost son and did the same with Wilson and Owen. But for Alex, he bowed quite low and kissed her hand; “Old ‘Doc’ said you were a beauty beyond compare, a real English rose despite having married an Italian – you will light up the court like a thousand lamps!”
Alex thanked him for his compliments and adjusted her bosom, the bloody Tudor dress didn’t hide them very well and she was quite uncomfortable in the damn thing. “Bloody corsets are stiff and unyielding.” She muttered as they walked to the party. The little group was stopped by Royal guards at the entrance to the Kings public apartments.
Sir Edward introduced them to the Captain of the Guards – who simply couldn’t take his eyes off Alex – Lord Jericho Tibbs and his sister were cousins of his, from their lands in Northumberland. The big African was Lord Tibbs loyal and faithful travelling Steward and the boy; Lord Tibb’s ward – the son of an old friend who had died and left the boy in his charge.
The Captain bowed low to them all and allowed them to enter; after discreetly asking Sir Edward if his Lordship’s sister was married or promised – Sir Edward pointed out that the Lady Alexandra was indeed a widow. That produced a huge smile on the Captains face as he watched her sweep majestically into the chamber and then crossed himself; for possession of such a woman he would march into hell itself; naked and armed with just a spoon! He knew that his pounding heart was the lady’s to command, he also knew that such a great lady would not look at him twice.
Captain Arthur Churchill sighed and drove the wonderful thoughts from his mind and got on with his duties, as more guests appeared. “One day my family will be great enough to claim such a woman.” He whispered to himself, for he harboured ambitions to rise high in the army of the king and even the nobility.
Jericho’s little diversion was working [the ‘diversion’ being Alex!] no-one really noticed him or Owen or even Wilson – a big African man should have evoked a great deal of conversation and questions at Henry’s Court, despite Queen Katherine having an African Trumpeter on her staff– but all eyes were firmly on the stunning Lady of Cappanni.
This allowed Jericho and the team to wander about the packed party goers, looking for their quarry – and they found the Well’s in a quiet corner, complete with camera and tripod. “How the fuck did they manage to smuggle that bloody great thing in here un-noticed?” Owen asked; a little amazed.
Sir Edward supplied the answer; “An incense machine, that the so called Professor invented, you crank the handle and it produces a lasting scent. The Lord Chamberlain inspected the device himself and was so impressed by the smells it apparently produced, allowed it to be used at this party.”
“I strongly suspect that a couple tins of air freshener have been sprayed about.” Wilson grunted and that made Owen chuckle. Alex grinned; “A very useful device in an age where nobody bathed regularly or changed their clothes often.”
“Well, we’ve found the missing pair, but whom or where is the third person?” Jericho glanced about; on the film, the Well’s had been briefly caught dancing at the rear of the party – together. So who had operated the camera?
Again Sir Edward supplied the answer – though unknowingly; “That skinny lad over there, who can be no older than your boy, is their servant; he’s called John Goodfield.” Wilson discreetly pulled his mirror and studied it for some moments. “That’s the professor’s son from his first wife – they divorced in 1899 and John stayed with his father.”
“Quite the family business.” Alex spoke softly and indicated quietly to Jericho that the Lord Chamberlain was approaching - it transpires that he and Sir Edward were old friends. Wilson, looking decidedly anxious, pushed the mirror back into his robes; “There’s something else you should know Jericho; Professor Ellis Goodfield died in 1904 and his soul was collected quite correctly. But he died alone, during a hiking accident in the hills of North Wales - it appears that his family had no idea about his passing because he's body was snatched from
the valley he fell into and its whereabouts are still unknown.”
Everyone stared at the very much alive professor, operating the camera and talking to his wife. There was silence until the Lord Chamberlain appeared and gripped his old friends arm; “I have a surprise for you Edward; it was the least I could do for an old friend and colleague.” Sir Edward smiled broadly and introduced everyone, but again it was Alex that caught the old man’s eye. He smiled and kissed her hand; “You are a widow lady?” He asked and positively grinned when she replied; yes.
“What is your surprise Roger?” Sir Edward asked and that pulled the old man’s attention away from Alex. The Lord Chamberlain patted his shoulder; “I have arranged for your cousin to be presented to the King. I told his Majesty that Lord Tibbs and his widowed sister have travelled from the far North to pledge fidelity and service to their new King. That will stand them, and you, in good stead with the young England [Henry].”
“Merde!” Alex uttered under her breath and both Wilson and Owen allowed themselves a little chuckle at that – Jericho managed to stop his smile being seen by Alex, and he also passed, un-noticed by anyone, the little glass orb to Wilson; who nodded his understanding of what Jericho wanted.
The Lord Chamberlain escorted Sir Edward, Jericho and Lady Alexandra through the throng of party guests and they came before the King, resplendent upon a gilded seat of ermine and gold. Queen Katherine sat upon a similar seat some feet away from the King, surrounded by several grim faced ladies-in-waiting. The Queen was unsmiling, having only recently birthed a still-born girl, she clearly wasn’t in a party mood – and it showed. But the young King would soon be.
6. DANCING, DEMONS AND DEADLY DECEIT.
Henry sat slumped in his chair – unsmiling, as the Lord Chamberlain approached, bowing low and the King indicated he should speak. “Your majesty, may I have your leave to present a loyal noble Lord from the far North who wishes to pledge his service and loyalty to his new King. Lord Jericho Tibbs is accompanied by his sister, a young widowed lady from the Italian state of Cappanni.” The King nodded and looked up as Jericho and Alex approached – there were many little gasps from the gathered Court, at the beauty, which had suddenly appeared amongst them.
The King sat upright and adjusted his tunic, a broad smile appearing upon his face, which didn’t go un-noticed by his Minsters and high nobles. Lord Jericho knelt on one knee and lowered his head; “My King, I bring my families love and loyalty to their rightful Majesty and pledge their fidelity and strength to England’s sun, which surely eclipses anything that our European cousins may hold dear and which, I say, casts them to dark shadows of envy and despair, for the sun is now firmly resident in England’s glorious land – my heart and sword are yours”
The chamber erupted in applause and shouts of “YES!” The King waved for silence; “Well noble Lord, how do the good people of the North view their new King?” and indicated for Jericho to stand, his eyes falling again upon Alex.
Jericho smiled; “Your majesty, like me they stand firmly behind their King and the few miserable wretches that don’t, will stand firmly in front of my sword!”
The chamber again exploded with cheers and applause. The King clearly appreciated the young Lords words and he thanked Jericho; saying that any such noble who wished to serve his King is welcome, especially one so eloquent – he turned to Alex who had curtsied quite low; “Do you, our beautiful English rose have the same sentiments?”
Alex rose and smiled; “My King, I was born in fair England and have travelled in many parts of the world, but none had the very sun to call their own and my heart belongs where my sun resides.” She curtsied again to massive, appreciative applause and shouts of “English Rose!”
The King rose from his seat and gestured her to come near, taking hold of her hand, he said simply; “Lets us dance sweet lady.” That caused a ripple of astonishment to roll about the chamber; normally all the King’s dance partners were known, and vetted, in advance and Henry had simply thrown Court protocol out the window!
The Lord Chamberlain slipped between Sir Edward and Jericho and whispered; “The King has not smiled or danced in weeks; but our lady Alexandra has made the sun rise again – thank God!”
Wilson tapped Jericho on the shoulder; “Our friends have flown the coup, Owen is tracking them like the bloodhound he is.” Wilson pushed the orb into Jericho’s hand and both could see the red streaks creeping about its circumference. He added; “I’ve put the call in for a Guardian – Oscar is on his way.”
“Well, that explains how they are moving about the Time-Line, but I wonder if Miss Stockyard knows of this deadly deception?” Jericho spoke softly, watching the King dance with Alex – again. Sir Edward suddenly bowed quite low, making Jericho and Wilson do the same. The Lord Chamberlain spluttered out the introductions; “This is Lord Tibbs your grace.” The Duke of Norfolk bowed a little and smiled; “Your sister is a rare beauty, clearly educated and intelligent. What was her late husband’s rank?”
Jericho knew that the Duke was the second most powerful man in the Kingdom and a close advisor of the young King – and its biggest schemer for power and position. “Her husband had the equivalent rank, in Italy, that an Earl has here, your grace – Lady Alexandra is a Countess by marriage.”
The Duke actually smiled at that revelation and exchanged looks with his companion; the Earl of Durham. The pair were known to be as close as a two headed snake – and just as cunning and power hungry.
“Does she have children Lord Tibbs – living children?” He asked and Jericho knew exactly what was on the good Duke’s mind. He smiled broadly; “My sister has three living children; two strapping sons and a daughter who is said to be her only rival in beauty.” He bowed quite low and really did struggle to stop smiling. “She has never miscarried a child or had one born already with the angels.” He added for good measure; that should buy time to wrap this little case up – as a diversion; Alexandra was second to none!
The Duke and Earl took their leave, deep in whispered conversation and Sir Edward turned to Jericho and smiled; “Those two would have the Spanish Queen put aside and an English woman upon the throne – preferably one they could control. Your sister has the rank that would be more than acceptable for a future English Queen and if the Spanish Queen loses any more children of the King, they will act.”
Jericho nodded and decided it was time to confront the demon masquerading as the professor and return Miss Stockyard Canning to the early 20th Century. But first, he had better extricate Alexandra from the clutches of a besotted young Henry!
Wilson had already departed to join Owen on the trail of the time travelling threesome and Jericho knew that Alex and he should do the same. That's when he saw Oscar standing by the main entrance, the little man was period dressed but still carried his staff of office.
They nodded to each other and Jericho slipped through the throng of guests and edged next to Alex; "Time to depart." He whispered and when Henry turned to speak to a persistent court official, wanting a decision, they made for the doors and disappeared into the night, with Oscar following closely.
7. GALLIONS REACH TAVERN, EAST LONDON.
The sprawling tavern was well known and favoured by peasant and prince alike, situated on the Thames at the east end of London. Many customers came by rowboat; propelled by 'Ferrymen' like Robert Eel, in whose boat the team found themselves. He pulled the oars with some strength and watched his passengers closely - he was convinced that they were from some theatre or circus - a big African, a dwarf, a very comely wench dressed like a Lady and two pretend Lords, possibility with false swords and jewels sewn into their cloth. But the strange boy escaped him and why did he keep looking into a bloody little mirror; the whole length of the trip from Hampton Palace?
The little lamps attached to the bow and stern of his stout boat cast weak light upon the dark river. But on the approach to the tavern, there were several large braziers ablaze with yellowing light and the team could see many people thronging about the large establishment.
"Don't fall in the water, you wouldn't need to drown to die in that stuff." Wilson chuckled and unobserved, checked the orb - little red streaks indicated the presence of a minor demon in the vicinity. He nodded to Jericho, who just smiled in return.
As the boat reached an old and fragile looking wooden wharf, Owen pulled his companions close and spoke softly; "I followed the three buggers in there and made enquiries with a couple of barmaids - that cost me tuppence - Apparently the Well's and their servant have taken rooms in the rear. It appears young John Goodfield has gained a taste for the whores that abound the place and in the week that they have been here, has become a very regular customer and a very generous patron by what the girls told me."
The sprawling tavern was well known and favoured by peasant and prince alike, situated on the Thames at the east end of London. Many customers came by rowboat; propelled by 'Ferrymen' like Robert Eel, in whose boat the team found themselves. He pulled the oars with some strength and watched his passengers closely - he was convinced that they were from some theatre or circus - a big African, a dwarf, a very comely wench dressed like a Lady and two pretend Lords, possibility with false swords and jewels sewn into their cloth. But the strange boy escaped him and why did he keep looking into a bloody little mirror; the whole length of the trip from Hampton Palace?
The little lamps attached to the bow and stern of his stout boat cast weak light upon the dark river. But on the approach to the tavern, there were several large braziers ablaze with yellowing light and the team could see many people thronging about the large establishment.
"Don't fall in the water, you wouldn't need to drown to die in that stuff." Wilson chuckled and unobserved, checked the orb - little red streaks indicated the presence of a minor demon in the vicinity. He nodded to Jericho, who just smiled in return.
As the boat reached an old and fragile looking wooden wharf, Owen pulled his companions close and spoke softly; "I followed the three buggers in there and made enquiries with a couple of barmaids - that cost me tuppence - Apparently the Well's and their servant have taken rooms in the rear. It appears young John Goodfield has gained a taste for the whores that abound the place and in the week that they have been here, has become a very regular customer and a very generous patron by what the girls told me."
Sir Edward paid the Ferryman a generous fee of thrupence [three pence] which was a full penny more than the regulations called for. Robert Eel smiled broadly and kissed the coins; "God bless you master." Wilson helped Alex from the boat and received a strange look from the Ferryman; a mix of surprise and a little anger. Sir Edward cautioned Wilson very quietly; "Don't ever touch a white Lady, not even to help her. A mob would form pretty quickly over such an incident." He patted Wilson on the shoulder and smiled, adding; "But you can do what you like with the baggage [whores] and no-one would care."
Everyone looked about - the place was packed with all types and different classes of Tudor society. Soldiers, fishermen, apprentices, tradesmen, shopkeepers and even well dressed gentry mixed with the pimps and whores.
Several merchants were selling hot chestnuts, stuffed pigeons, baked dormouse, cooked eels, oysters and salted fish garnished with herbs. Small chunks of hot bread with cheese and raw onion were best sellers.
The sound of music and singing rose and fell from the tavern as the strange looking group entered - but they only drew the odd curious look as a tavern servant found them a rough wooden table and several equally rough chairs. Sir Edwards tipped the ugly young man who possessed broken teeth and lacked a couple of dirty fingers. He also paid a farthing for Alex to have a cushion placed on her chair.
The boy stared at Alex with wide eyes and open mouth as he pocketed the coins; "Sweet master, what a fucking piece of cake!" The look from Sir Edward made the boy lower his eyes and quickly disappear. They sat closely together, talking softly and Alex noticed that all her companions kept a hand upon their sword hilts. She smiled and patted her right thigh; pressed into her hose was a slim little dagger - just in case!
Even Jericho was a little surprised when a young barmaid appeared with several tankards of ale, carried with great skill and dexterity - but that wasn't the surprise; she was bare breasted with her nipples painted with rouge and wore nothing but a thick, short black apron that covered very little.
She grinned and set the tankards down and Sir Edward gave her a few coins for the beer and another for herself. "Thank you sweet master." She said softly and walked away showing her pale bare arse to all. It had several red hand marks upon the cheeks. The tavern owner knew how to keep his girls in order.
Alex sipped her warm beer and smiled at Owen; "Bet you didn't see that every day in the Monastery." Everyone laughed as he went a little red in the cheeks. "I've already seen the like - Maggie [pointing to the departing barmaid] told me about the Well's." He spluttered, spilling a little frothy beer. Jericho called the strange meeting to order and outlined the plan to his colleagues.
8. WHEN PLANS GO ASTRAY.
Sir Edward spoke briefly with Connor Saltfeet - the part owner of the tavern - who was serving behind the rough bar and keeping a close eye on all monies taken. Some silver coins exchanged hands; to Connor's delight. He was told that the strange group were all agents of the Lord Chamberlain and they were here in disguise, to apprehend some clever and cunning enemies of the young King, but quietly and without commotion.
"We want no alarm, nothing to raise a mob that may snatch the King's enemies away from lawful custody and before they can be questioned. We'll have no lynching here - the King wants his justice to be seen." Sir Edward was actually quite convincing - Jericho was impressed - no wonder old 'Doc' Underhill spoke so highly of him.
Connor expressed his admiration at their 'disguises'; especially the one dressed as a woman! "I would have ball'd that in an instance, he makes a fine wench." Sir Edward simply nodded and whispered to Jericho that all was ready - the tavern owner believed Alex was, in fact, a boy in the King's service as no woman would ever be employed in such a role.
Jericho and Wilson were first through the door; swords drawn, followed by Oscar and Owen, Alex followed up and kept watch for anyone entering the small corridor, which lead to the rooms that the Well's had rented. Sir Edward stayed by her side - sword drawn.
Suddenly, she heard Jericho calling for her and Sir Edward, they dashed to the rooms and found Wilson trying to stop the blood coming from several large scratches upon the body of Miss Stockyard Canning, who was naked upon the floor, half covered by a sheet.
Alex ripped strips of cotton from her petticoats and attempted to stop the blood oozing from the deep lacerations; "Sweet Jesus, she looks like she has been savaged by some wild animal!" Exclaimed Owen and held his sword ready.
Jericho made a quick decision when Alex yelled that Miss Canning was still alive; "Take her back to 1905 and get medical assistance straight away - Owen go with them - Now!" The three disappeared in an instance.
Oscar shook his head; "The bastard has gone Jericho." He replaced his orb back into his tunic and looked about the room. The camera and tripod lay broken upon the blood splattered floor and then Sir Edward noticed the strange, black rectangular box on the chair. He picked it up and showed Jericho.
Jericho grunted, it appeared broken; like it had been dropped upon concrete and so pulled it open with his dagger - it contained nothing - a fake time controller. He knew now that Miss Stockyard Canning had been deceived, he tapped the useless box and pictured the scene; somehow the 'Controller' had broken against something hard and Miss Stockyard could now see the deception.
She probably confronted the 'Professor' and the beast had turned nasty. "Where's the young boy?" Wilson said with some concern. Jericho pushed open the door to the adjoining room and stood back from the dreadful scene; the young man and woman had been butchered - there was no other word for it.
The two naked bodies had been thrown about the bed and floor; the girls throat was badly torn and her head hung loose upon her shoulders, a breast had been ripped off and her stomach lay open. The boy had very little face left and one leg lay almost severed, pressed against his upper arm.
Butchered really didn't describe the terrible scene. Oscar joined Jericho in the doorway and ran a hand over his face; "Kesbo." He said simply and gripped his staff with both hands. "What do you mean?" Jericho muttered, unable to pull his eyes away from the horror. "Kesbo, the demon that did this - it has his mark all over - he's been under the Guardian's radar for a while now. We all wondered what the little fucker was up to, well, now we know." Oscar sighed and returned to Sir Edward who was almost sick, but composed himself.
"I think we best get the fuck outa here." Wilson muttered, gathering up the camera and Jericho nodded his agreement, but remembered that Sir Edward was of this time.
"Go Jericho, I'll be fine. Connor can call the guard and I'll make up some story about a wolf man or something these people will believe - just go my friend." Jericho gripped his hand tightly, but said nothing.
Sir Edward watched as Jericho, Wilson and Oscar vanished. He returned quietly to the bar and told Connor to fetch the city guard - someone had already dispatched one of the King's enemies and the unlucky, poor whore that just happened to be with him - they didn't want to leave any witnesses.
A very tired Jericho and Wilson made their way to the lighthouse and both slumped into armchairs with large brandies. Jericho attempted to call Alex on her mirror without any luck. But then his mirror began to vibrate and bleep - an incoming call - he snatched it up and found, with some relief, that Owen was calling.
Sir Edward spoke briefly with Connor Saltfeet - the part owner of the tavern - who was serving behind the rough bar and keeping a close eye on all monies taken. Some silver coins exchanged hands; to Connor's delight. He was told that the strange group were all agents of the Lord Chamberlain and they were here in disguise, to apprehend some clever and cunning enemies of the young King, but quietly and without commotion.
"We want no alarm, nothing to raise a mob that may snatch the King's enemies away from lawful custody and before they can be questioned. We'll have no lynching here - the King wants his justice to be seen." Sir Edward was actually quite convincing - Jericho was impressed - no wonder old 'Doc' Underhill spoke so highly of him.
Connor expressed his admiration at their 'disguises'; especially the one dressed as a woman! "I would have ball'd that in an instance, he makes a fine wench." Sir Edward simply nodded and whispered to Jericho that all was ready - the tavern owner believed Alex was, in fact, a boy in the King's service as no woman would ever be employed in such a role.
Jericho and Wilson were first through the door; swords drawn, followed by Oscar and Owen, Alex followed up and kept watch for anyone entering the small corridor, which lead to the rooms that the Well's had rented. Sir Edward stayed by her side - sword drawn.
Suddenly, she heard Jericho calling for her and Sir Edward, they dashed to the rooms and found Wilson trying to stop the blood coming from several large scratches upon the body of Miss Stockyard Canning, who was naked upon the floor, half covered by a sheet.
Alex ripped strips of cotton from her petticoats and attempted to stop the blood oozing from the deep lacerations; "Sweet Jesus, she looks like she has been savaged by some wild animal!" Exclaimed Owen and held his sword ready.
Jericho made a quick decision when Alex yelled that Miss Canning was still alive; "Take her back to 1905 and get medical assistance straight away - Owen go with them - Now!" The three disappeared in an instance.
Oscar shook his head; "The bastard has gone Jericho." He replaced his orb back into his tunic and looked about the room. The camera and tripod lay broken upon the blood splattered floor and then Sir Edward noticed the strange, black rectangular box on the chair. He picked it up and showed Jericho.
Jericho grunted, it appeared broken; like it had been dropped upon concrete and so pulled it open with his dagger - it contained nothing - a fake time controller. He knew now that Miss Stockyard Canning had been deceived, he tapped the useless box and pictured the scene; somehow the 'Controller' had broken against something hard and Miss Stockyard could now see the deception.
She probably confronted the 'Professor' and the beast had turned nasty. "Where's the young boy?" Wilson said with some concern. Jericho pushed open the door to the adjoining room and stood back from the dreadful scene; the young man and woman had been butchered - there was no other word for it.
The two naked bodies had been thrown about the bed and floor; the girls throat was badly torn and her head hung loose upon her shoulders, a breast had been ripped off and her stomach lay open. The boy had very little face left and one leg lay almost severed, pressed against his upper arm.
Butchered really didn't describe the terrible scene. Oscar joined Jericho in the doorway and ran a hand over his face; "Kesbo." He said simply and gripped his staff with both hands. "What do you mean?" Jericho muttered, unable to pull his eyes away from the horror. "Kesbo, the demon that did this - it has his mark all over - he's been under the Guardian's radar for a while now. We all wondered what the little fucker was up to, well, now we know." Oscar sighed and returned to Sir Edward who was almost sick, but composed himself.
"I think we best get the fuck outa here." Wilson muttered, gathering up the camera and Jericho nodded his agreement, but remembered that Sir Edward was of this time.
"Go Jericho, I'll be fine. Connor can call the guard and I'll make up some story about a wolf man or something these people will believe - just go my friend." Jericho gripped his hand tightly, but said nothing.
Sir Edward watched as Jericho, Wilson and Oscar vanished. He returned quietly to the bar and told Connor to fetch the city guard - someone had already dispatched one of the King's enemies and the unlucky, poor whore that just happened to be with him - they didn't want to leave any witnesses.
A very tired Jericho and Wilson made their way to the lighthouse and both slumped into armchairs with large brandies. Jericho attempted to call Alex on her mirror without any luck. But then his mirror began to vibrate and bleep - an incoming call - he snatched it up and found, with some relief, that Owen was calling.
9. JERICHO'S REVELATION.
Jericho stood by the fireplace and sipped his brandy, Alex and Owen should return at any moment. Wilson was at the Records office with Oscar, looking up the Demon known as 'Kesbo' and collating missing souls from the time and dates of those old films.
The soul of young John Goodfield was missing; but that didn't surprise Jericho - the boy had died out of his own time - the young woman who had died with him; a certain Mistress Mary Chapel, her soul was also missing. He chalked that one up to the demon.
Alex pushed open the study door and collected a large brandy from the tray, as she slumped into an armchair by the fire. Owen followed and also helped himself to a large brandy. He smiled at Jericho; "Well at least her soul was collected correctly. Alex delayed the Collector - it was old Charlie Le Beeoff by the way - until she questioned Miss Stockyard Canning or should I say...."
Alex stopped him there and took up the story; "The injuries were just too much despite getting her to Whitechapel Hospital, Stockyard passed away a few minutes after arrival there. A savage death like that would have been suspicious to the Doctors, so Owen contacted the human Agent for that time and place and he dealt with them."
"Inspector Harry Hadden - he's one of my best; that was a very smart move Alex - very smart." Jericho was well pleased with his team's performance - especially Alexandra's. She nodded her thanks and continued:
"That's when we found out that Miss Stockyard Canning was actually Mr. Stockyard Canning. The Collector - old Charlie - was on scene quite quickly, but I managed to question Stockyard. The story is a little odd, so here goes."
Owen dropped onto the sofa opposite and sipped his brandy. Jericho remained standing, arms folded.
"Apparently he was the fifth son of the Canning's and his parents really wanted a girl. So his father, an arrogant, selfish bastard had the boy raised as a girl. He didn't really know what or who he was - until he encountered Professor Goodfield who seduced the boy and for the first time in his/her short life felt; 'normal'. That was her words and she wanted to identify as a woman so I'll run with her wishes. The Professor had convinced her that he possessed a machine to travel through time; so with his son John in tow, the pair jumped through different era's with Stockyard filming their travels. She said it was 'bloody fantastic' at first, but then a big crack appeared; John had noticed that a lot of mysterious and sometimes horrifying deaths seem to be following them in each of the different time periods, that they appeared in." Alex sipped her brandy and Mr. Harris refilled her class, Jericho also accepted another from the big man.
"Finally, it came to a head by accident. At the Gallions Reach Tavern Stockyard accidently dropped the supposed 'controller' and it broke open. She realised that something else was doing the time travel and she confronted the professor. The rest we knew already. After attacking her, he turned on the boy and the young prostitute - killing them both and stealing her soul - young John's is probably lost in the era in which he should belong - poor little sod."
Jericho said nothing, but swallowed down his brandy and allowed Mr. Harris to refill him - yet again - as Wilson appeared and also accepted a drink. "62 missing in just the era's we know they visited, from the four time periods that appeared in those films." Wilson looked quite grim and knocked back his whisky in one hit. "Oscar has gone on its trail with his friend; Guardian Emma Bateman - Angel Margret wants the bastard."
"Shit!" Owen muttered and finished his drink. "What now boss?" He asked Jericho, who stood in silence, gently rubbing his chin - deep in thought. Finally, Jericho looked up: "What have we overlooked my friends and it's staring us in the bloody face?"
Everyone exchanged bemused looks with each other and finally Owen asked; "What have we overlooked boss?" Jericho actually allowed himself a little smile; "Stockyard and John Goodfield were killed in 1510, AFTER filming good King Harry and the only party left, that we know, had knowledge about the films, was the demon. So who the fuck hid those old films in the shop basement? Remember, the film about Henry was in the basement, who the hell put it there? Both Stockyard and John were dead and our friend the demon certainly wouldn't bother."
Wilson grunted his agreement; "When I grabbed the camera, the film was gone. Someone had already taken the King Henry film and must have placed it with the others in the basement." He accepted a refill from Mr. Harris and tapped the class gently with a finger - thinking.
"But no-one, except the demon had the power to travel through time. So how did the film get back to Edwardian London and into the shop basement, if the demon didn't take it?" Alex held both hands up, adding; "Remember the bloody time controller was a fake!"
Jericho walked over to the grand mirror hanging above the fireplace and said quietly; "Play the scene from where the temporal detectives leave the internet café."
The mirror flickered into life and everyone sat forward to view. They watched as the two men followed Jericho and Alex down the busy street and into the alley, where they vanished. They sat in silence as Stockyard supposedly operated the time controlling device and also vanished with her companion.
"Have a real close look at the second man." Jericho said and sat down in his favourite armchair and cradled his drink with both hands. The scene was replayed again and he sat sipping his brandy - waiting.
"If Stockyard had already been murdered by the demon in 1510, how the hell could she have followed us from the café. Where, you remember, we viewed the films just released to the public domain. It can't have been Stockyard." Alex had reasoned it out and Jericho was again impressed.
"Play on." He said simply to the mirror and they continued to watch and saw Special Agent Louise Sturdiski leave the entrance of the alley and return to her British colleague, MI5 Agent Michael Shannon, waiting by the black van.
"In this particular time period; the early 21st Century, some Governments are investigating instances of 'Time-travel' which they perceive to be a threat to their National Security and they have caught, only on camera thankfully, quite a few Temporal detectives passing through - including us!" He jabbed a finger at Alexandra, then himself. Everybody chuckled at that as Alex held up her hands and said; "Guilty."
"The most worrying thing is, they have apparently caught others coming from the future - in growing numbers - to their century and the 20th. But that's for another day." Jericho suddenly produced the fake time controller and told the mirror to zoom in on the controller held by Stockyard Canning. Everyone rose from their chairs and gathered about the mirror. They all agreed - it was indeed the fake controller, but it showed damage around the edges - just like when Jericho first picked it up in the rooms at the rear of Gallions Reach Tavern.
Alex started to chuckle and smiled in amazement at Jericho's incredible detective abilities; "How the hell did you catch on to this?" She asked, shaking her head. Everyone now knew that this was filmed after Stockyard's death and after the controller had been damaged.
Jericho grinned broadly; "Well, it was a certain, mad conspiracy theorist that actually solved the case for us." He tossed the fake time controller to Owen and allowed himself a small chuckle. "The man with the knife is indeed our demon friend masquerading as Professor Goodfield - but the young man, who believes he's operating a time controlling device, is certainly not Stockyard - she's already dead - but is so like Stockyard, we accepted it was her; just like those living detectives did in the van. That lovely young agent says; 'Brice and Ellis.' They fell for the deception, as we did, to our shame."
"Who the hell is it then?" Owen asked, staring closely at the frozen image. Jericho tapped the screen and sighed; "Frederick George Canning."
Jericho stood by the fireplace and sipped his brandy, Alex and Owen should return at any moment. Wilson was at the Records office with Oscar, looking up the Demon known as 'Kesbo' and collating missing souls from the time and dates of those old films.
The soul of young John Goodfield was missing; but that didn't surprise Jericho - the boy had died out of his own time - the young woman who had died with him; a certain Mistress Mary Chapel, her soul was also missing. He chalked that one up to the demon.
Alex pushed open the study door and collected a large brandy from the tray, as she slumped into an armchair by the fire. Owen followed and also helped himself to a large brandy. He smiled at Jericho; "Well at least her soul was collected correctly. Alex delayed the Collector - it was old Charlie Le Beeoff by the way - until she questioned Miss Stockyard Canning or should I say...."
Alex stopped him there and took up the story; "The injuries were just too much despite getting her to Whitechapel Hospital, Stockyard passed away a few minutes after arrival there. A savage death like that would have been suspicious to the Doctors, so Owen contacted the human Agent for that time and place and he dealt with them."
"Inspector Harry Hadden - he's one of my best; that was a very smart move Alex - very smart." Jericho was well pleased with his team's performance - especially Alexandra's. She nodded her thanks and continued:
"That's when we found out that Miss Stockyard Canning was actually Mr. Stockyard Canning. The Collector - old Charlie - was on scene quite quickly, but I managed to question Stockyard. The story is a little odd, so here goes."
Owen dropped onto the sofa opposite and sipped his brandy. Jericho remained standing, arms folded.
"Apparently he was the fifth son of the Canning's and his parents really wanted a girl. So his father, an arrogant, selfish bastard had the boy raised as a girl. He didn't really know what or who he was - until he encountered Professor Goodfield who seduced the boy and for the first time in his/her short life felt; 'normal'. That was her words and she wanted to identify as a woman so I'll run with her wishes. The Professor had convinced her that he possessed a machine to travel through time; so with his son John in tow, the pair jumped through different era's with Stockyard filming their travels. She said it was 'bloody fantastic' at first, but then a big crack appeared; John had noticed that a lot of mysterious and sometimes horrifying deaths seem to be following them in each of the different time periods, that they appeared in." Alex sipped her brandy and Mr. Harris refilled her class, Jericho also accepted another from the big man.
"Finally, it came to a head by accident. At the Gallions Reach Tavern Stockyard accidently dropped the supposed 'controller' and it broke open. She realised that something else was doing the time travel and she confronted the professor. The rest we knew already. After attacking her, he turned on the boy and the young prostitute - killing them both and stealing her soul - young John's is probably lost in the era in which he should belong - poor little sod."
Jericho said nothing, but swallowed down his brandy and allowed Mr. Harris to refill him - yet again - as Wilson appeared and also accepted a drink. "62 missing in just the era's we know they visited, from the four time periods that appeared in those films." Wilson looked quite grim and knocked back his whisky in one hit. "Oscar has gone on its trail with his friend; Guardian Emma Bateman - Angel Margret wants the bastard."
"Shit!" Owen muttered and finished his drink. "What now boss?" He asked Jericho, who stood in silence, gently rubbing his chin - deep in thought. Finally, Jericho looked up: "What have we overlooked my friends and it's staring us in the bloody face?"
Everyone exchanged bemused looks with each other and finally Owen asked; "What have we overlooked boss?" Jericho actually allowed himself a little smile; "Stockyard and John Goodfield were killed in 1510, AFTER filming good King Harry and the only party left, that we know, had knowledge about the films, was the demon. So who the fuck hid those old films in the shop basement? Remember, the film about Henry was in the basement, who the hell put it there? Both Stockyard and John were dead and our friend the demon certainly wouldn't bother."
Wilson grunted his agreement; "When I grabbed the camera, the film was gone. Someone had already taken the King Henry film and must have placed it with the others in the basement." He accepted a refill from Mr. Harris and tapped the class gently with a finger - thinking.
"But no-one, except the demon had the power to travel through time. So how did the film get back to Edwardian London and into the shop basement, if the demon didn't take it?" Alex held both hands up, adding; "Remember the bloody time controller was a fake!"
Jericho walked over to the grand mirror hanging above the fireplace and said quietly; "Play the scene from where the temporal detectives leave the internet café."
The mirror flickered into life and everyone sat forward to view. They watched as the two men followed Jericho and Alex down the busy street and into the alley, where they vanished. They sat in silence as Stockyard supposedly operated the time controlling device and also vanished with her companion.
"Have a real close look at the second man." Jericho said and sat down in his favourite armchair and cradled his drink with both hands. The scene was replayed again and he sat sipping his brandy - waiting.
"If Stockyard had already been murdered by the demon in 1510, how the hell could she have followed us from the café. Where, you remember, we viewed the films just released to the public domain. It can't have been Stockyard." Alex had reasoned it out and Jericho was again impressed.
"Play on." He said simply to the mirror and they continued to watch and saw Special Agent Louise Sturdiski leave the entrance of the alley and return to her British colleague, MI5 Agent Michael Shannon, waiting by the black van.
"In this particular time period; the early 21st Century, some Governments are investigating instances of 'Time-travel' which they perceive to be a threat to their National Security and they have caught, only on camera thankfully, quite a few Temporal detectives passing through - including us!" He jabbed a finger at Alexandra, then himself. Everybody chuckled at that as Alex held up her hands and said; "Guilty."
"The most worrying thing is, they have apparently caught others coming from the future - in growing numbers - to their century and the 20th. But that's for another day." Jericho suddenly produced the fake time controller and told the mirror to zoom in on the controller held by Stockyard Canning. Everyone rose from their chairs and gathered about the mirror. They all agreed - it was indeed the fake controller, but it showed damage around the edges - just like when Jericho first picked it up in the rooms at the rear of Gallions Reach Tavern.
Alex started to chuckle and smiled in amazement at Jericho's incredible detective abilities; "How the hell did you catch on to this?" She asked, shaking her head. Everyone now knew that this was filmed after Stockyard's death and after the controller had been damaged.
Jericho grinned broadly; "Well, it was a certain, mad conspiracy theorist that actually solved the case for us." He tossed the fake time controller to Owen and allowed himself a small chuckle. "The man with the knife is indeed our demon friend masquerading as Professor Goodfield - but the young man, who believes he's operating a time controlling device, is certainly not Stockyard - she's already dead - but is so like Stockyard, we accepted it was her; just like those living detectives did in the van. That lovely young agent says; 'Brice and Ellis.' They fell for the deception, as we did, to our shame."
"Who the hell is it then?" Owen asked, staring closely at the frozen image. Jericho tapped the screen and sighed; "Frederick George Canning."
10. IN PURSUIT OF EVIL.
"Obergruppenführer Fredrick Von Cannell was a high ranking Nazi, who disappeared just before the fall of Berlin in 1945. His filthy bloodstained hands can be found in murder degree's to various concentration camps during the Nazi period. He's probably, personally responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent men, women and children. He was never bought to justice because he apparently vanished off the face of the Earth - or so it seemed. We know the bastard as Frederick George Canning and we now know where he has been hiding - in time." Jericho pointed to the smiling Nazi on the mirror's screen and then pulled up Frederick Canning; they were the same man.
"Owen, unknowingly, hit the nail on the head when he made the comment; 'in the Nazi era, Germany had plenty of demons hanging about the place', he was so right. I strongly suspect that one was 'Kesbo' and of course, Frederick knew it well and had been its real partner since 1905. Had his sister not discovered the deception, Stockyard would have probably been involved with the Nazi's as well - though I hope she had the strength to turn away, but we'll never know now." Jericho continued, stopping only to take a bite from his sandwich; cheese and cucumber - a favourite.
Mrs. Harris had supplied the team with well earned sandwiches as the briefing continued - they couldn't stop for dinner - much to Wilson's and Owen's regret.
"if I had actually listened to Alexandra, we would have been on to this earlier." He smiled at Alex, who looked quite puzzled. "What the hell did I say?" She asked and everyone chuckled.
"You said we should view the Roman era film again because of the two people seen filming on the river's other bank - one man and one female - possibly." Jericho pointed to the mirror and the scene was replayed - in real close up and everyone nodded their agreement; it was Stockyard and her brother Frederick.
"John and his supposed father was actually doing the filming and again captured Stockyard - just like in the King Henry film and if we closely view the other two films, we'll find her in them too - she was a real time tourist!" Jericho allowed himself a little chuckle and then turned serious.
"I believe that Frederick was the person who hid the films in the old basement, despite him following the demon for all it could offer him; he still had some kind of feeling for his younger brother/sister and wanted to keep the films. The demon wouldn't actually mind, because of the sheer amount of souls the evil bastard had access to, following the murdering Frederick about a war torn Europe." Jericho showed a picture of the old shop as it appeared in 1905.
"Canning's Photographic and Portrait Studio." He said simply. "He simply couldn't return to retrieve the films because of two bloody great world wars and Britain and Germany were absolute enemies in both. I'm sure that at the end of the second world war, when Frederick was of no further use to it; the demon disposed of him too."
"The body was never found because the demon finished him off in another time period and of course, there would be no collector to recover the soul." Wilson nodded his agreement with all Jericho had said.
"I hope Oscar and his companion find the bastard and kill it." Alex said quietly and everyone was a little surprised to hear the Lady swear - but they all laughed about it.
"In the pursuit of evil, there really can be no prisoners." Jericho whispered and the meeting broke up, with Mr. Harris appearing and informing Jericho that 'little Ivan' had arrived with a dispatch from Angel Margret. Jericho collected the file and sat in his armchair, sipping a brandy.
"Anything interesting?" queried Owen, warming his backside by the fire. Jericho looked up and smiled; "Fancy a trip to Gettysburg?"
EPILOGUE:
"This mission was quite difficult for Team 74; it discovered that over sixty souls had been lost or stolen due to time travelling activities of the Demon Kesbo, who remains at large. It also spawned no less than three other Temporal Detective investigations and showed that human authorities knew about the activities of the Temporal Department. It really could not be described as a 'success' for that Department."
W.A.S.
CHARACTERS:
Sir Edward Wallington, the human agent for this time and place, contracted the feared 'sweating sickness' which was rampant at the time. He died in 1515 and his soul was collected and processed. His mortal remains and tomb were subject of a Temporal Investigation, when a small wristwatch was discovered in his tomb in 2022. It was being removed to make way for a new high speed railway link. That case awaits resolution and is being investigated by Inspector Jericho Tibbs and Team 74.
Special Agent Louise Sturdiski (NSA) returned to the USA and continued to work for the National Security Agency until her early death - she was killed in a traffic accident by a drunk driver. Her soul was collected and processed. She is currently working as a Collector, but has applied to join the Temporal Detective Department.
Stockyard Brice Goodfield [nee Canning] was lucky, in that Alex and Owen managed to return her to Edwardian times before she succumbed to her terrible injuries. This allowed her soul to be collected and processed. It was quarantined until 2100.
Michael Shannon, A British MI6 agent [Special Intelligence Service - SIS] remained in the department for several years and was part of the highly secret section that watched invading 'time-travellers'. He soon realised that many of the persons he saw and recorded, where something far more than time- travellers. [they were, of course, Temporal Detectives passing through on missions]. Unfortunately, he accidently drown whilst on a family holiday in Australia. His soul was collected and processed.
Frederick George Canning [Obergruppenführer Fredrick Von Cannell] was probably terminated by the demon, at the end of the Second World War, when he was of no longer use to the creature. No soul has been collected and the whereabouts of his death remains a mystery - but it was not within in his ordained 'Life-cycle' and so, as a human out of his own time; his soul was lost. Temporal Detective Inspector 'Doc' Silas Underhill has been assigned his case - it currently remains unresolved.
Professor Ellis Goodfield [Kesbo the Demon] managed to steal over sixty souls with the help of his 'wife' and 'son'. The Demon Ingress Department, Intelligence Service; reports that he was last sighted in Afghanistan in the year 1899.
Captain Arthur Churchill, part of the King's bodyguard, liked to drink and was caught up in a tavern brawl in the King Lud tavern and was accidently struck with a sword. He survived the wound, but within days was seriously ill - the small wound had become infected. His arm had to be amputated, but that didn't save him - the sepsis had spread through his body and he died - in agony- in 1518. His soul was collected and processed.
Lord Herbert, the Lord Chamberlain, died in 1526 and his soul was collected and processed.
Thomas Howard, 2nd Duke of Norfolk, died in 1524 at over 80 years of age, which was good for the time period. His soul was collected and processed.
Robert Eel, the 'ferryman' rowed the river for some nine years and was well respected for his quite and pleasant manners. Unfortunately, he contracted the feared 'sweating sickness' in 1515 and died within days of falling ill - his soul was collected and processed.
Connor Saltfeet was the part owner of the 'Galleon's Reach' tavern and kept good order in the pub. A violent man by nature, he was easily provoked and whilst beating one of the girls for a minor infringement one night, used far too much force and accidently killed her. The city watch went after him and he was caught in a Whitechapel brothel. He was hung on St. Martin's day 1512. His soul was collected and processed.
John Goodfield had spent much time at Boarding School, so didn't really know his father. The demon 'Kesbo' was able to fool him easily. He was brutally killed by the demon, when Stockyard realised what was happening and confronted 'Kesbo'. He was a human out of his own time and so, his soul is lost.
Mary Chapel was the common prostitute killed with John Goodfield at the Gallion's Reach tavern; she was seventeen at the time. Her soul is missing, and the file is marked; LTDA - Lost To Demonic Activity.
SPECIAL APPEARANCE BY:
| Henry VIII | |
|---|---|
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| King of England and Ireland
(more...)
| |
| Reign | 22 April 1509 – 28 January 1547 |
| Coronation | 24 June 1509 |
| Predecessor | Henry VII |
| Successor | Edward VI |
| Born | Henry Tudor 28 June 1491 Palace of Placentia, Greenwich, Kent |
| Died | 28 January 1547 (aged 55) Palace of Whitehall, London |
| Burial | 16 February 1547 |
| Spouse | |
| Issue Among others | |
| House | Tudor |
| Father | Henry VII of England |
| Mother | Elizabeth of York |
| Religion |
|
| Signature |  |
King Henry VIII, as himself.
The KING died in 1547 and was succeeded by his feeble son; Edward VI who was still a boy. Unfortunately the young boy died in 1553 (aged 15 years). The Tudor dynasty he worked so hard to maintain expired with the death of his daughter; Elizabeth I in 1603.
His soul was collected and processed.
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| "William Alexander Stephens." |
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