Previously: As the Miss Blackport Contest was set to begin in the Grand Ballroom of the Black Towers Hotel, the contestant’s nervously put the finishing touches on their hair and make-up. Mindy Mint, doubting her chances of winning the contest, imagined that the event’s coordinator, Madame Puce, mocked her and told her she had no chance of winning. Upstairs, Lady Lavender adjourned a meeting of potential PlantCorp investors and Miss Veronica Sable expressed her concern with the fact that Channing Steele would attempt to murder Kirby Canary and Alva Vermillion in front of the many people that were gathered in the hotel. Lavender, unaware that Mai Le was listening to them, told Sable that Steele would do anything to make sure PlantCorp’s plans for Founder’s Day went off as planned, much like Baron Bronze did when he murdered Rhoit. When Mai Le heard that it was Bronze that had murdered Rhoit, she set out to find him. Alva Vermillion realizing that Mai Le was not backstage with the rest of the contestants went out to the lobby to find her. As Lady Lavender and Miss Sable came out of an elevator, they saw Bronze in the lobby, and so did Mai Le. But before Mai Le had a chance to confront Bronze, Alva found her and told her that the contest was about to start. Jake Summers, Alva’s fiancé, saw Alva and was relieved that she was still safe and that Channing Steele had not accomplished his goal in murdering her. Jake swore to do whatever it took to keep Alva safe. A few moments later, Matthew Steele and Copper Smith came into the lobby. Ducking out of site, Jake listened as Matt explained that a mysterious figure was seen in a balcony at the rear of the ballroom, but before they could go and investigate, the Miss Blackport Contestants took to the stage and they went back in to watch. Jake, thinking that the person on the balcony must be Channing Steele, went to the balcony stairs. Up in the balcony, Channing Steele watched the contest with a gun at his side. Channing was so focused on his goal of killing Kirby and Alva, that he didn’t realize that he was not alone on the balcony. Across town at Blackport Memorial Hospital, Miss Emily Peach was paid a visit by her adoptive parents. When Mrs. Peach told Emily that she wanted her to leave Blackport and return with them to Georgia, Emily began to get upset. The Peach’s explained that they felt that Blackport was not the safest environment for her, but Emily was too weak to argue. As the Peach’s left Emily so she could rest, a mysterious women entered Emily’s room. Once the talent portion of the Miss Blackport Contest was over, Alva asked Mai Le if she had seen or heard from Gavin Gold. Mai Le lied to Alva, knowing good and well that she had left Gavin tied up in her bedroom at her apartment. Mai Le was unaware that Gavin had freed himself from the ropes and was now in the hotel. When the judge’s decision was handed in, the contestants were narrowed down to three with Alva, Kirby and Mindy taking to the stage. Gavin entered the ballroom and Kirby let Alva know that he was there. Gavin told Alva not to warn the citizens about the planned attack on Founder’s Day as they had originally decided, but Madame Puce made Alva return to the line-up before he had the chance to explain why he wanted her not to. Up in the balcony, Channing Steele took the opportunity and positioned himself to murder Alva and Kirby. Gavin, turning from the stage, caught a glimpse of Steele up in the balcony and ran towards the back of the room, attracting the attention of some of the audience members. As the winner of the Miss Blackport Contest was about to be announced, Gavin ran into Mai Le, who was shocked to see him. Gavin took Mai Le out to the Lobby, while in the Ballroom, a shot rang out and Alva collapsed to the stage. The audience began to scream as Alva’s mother ran to the stage. Another shot rang out, sending the audience diving for cover. Realizing the shots came from the rear balcony Matthew Steele drew his weapon and made his way to the back of the Ballroom and up the stairs. Once up in the balcony, Matt saw a shadowy figure hunched over the railing and yelled for the person to surrender. When the person did not respond, Matt carefully went to the railing and pulled the person back, revealing the person’s identity as his father, Channing Steele. Matt was joined on the balcony by Gavin Gold and Matt told Gavin that Channing was dead. Gavin rushed to the railing to see what was happening on the stage and saw that Copper was helping an injured Alva. Moving away from the railing, Gavin kicked Channing’s gun and crouched down to get a better look at it. While down on the floor, Gavin noticed an object shining from underneath a chair and reached to get it. When Matt questioned Gavin on what he had found under the chair, Gavin held out a diamond ring.

“Founder’s Day”

The day following the tragic events of the Miss Blackport Contest finds the citizens of Blackport in a state of shock. The Blackport Journal’s headline tells of the horrific shooting of Alva Vermillion. On a television set at Jojo Summers' Diner, Mayor Aubergine speaks from the steps of the Town Hall. He announces that even though the Miss Blackport Contest ended in tragedy, the Founder’s Day finale scheduled for later in the evening was still going to take place.

“What about security?” A news reporter asks the Mayor.

“I understand your concerns.” He says. “And after meeting with police, town officials and John Boddy, we have all decided that the shooting was an isolated event.”

“So you have someone in custody?” Another reporter asks.

“I can not comment on an on-going investigation.” The mayor says. Jojo Summers switches off the television, disgusted with what she has just heard.

“Can you believe that they are going through with the Founder’s Day party?” Jojo asks, turning to the counter where Audrey Summers, Kirby Canary, Copper Smith and Gavin Gold sit drinking coffee.

“Sadly, I can.” Audrey says. She looks over at Ramona Vermillion who is sitting silently at a table. Audrey gets up and goes over to the table. She takes a seat at the table without saying anything to the distraught woman.

“This is crazy.” Kirby says. “Alva died last night and they want us to go to that stupid party?”

“What do you think they mean by an isolated event?” Copper asks Gavin.

“Well they are pretty sure that it was Channing Steele who shot Alva.” Gavin says.

“Pretty sure?” Copper says.

“But that doesn’t answer the question as to who killed Steele.” Kirby says. “There is a killer on the loose.”

“It is just like the people of this town to go on about their lives like nothing happened.” Jojo says, going into the kitchen.

Across town at the Center for the Performing Arts, caterers and servers busily prepare the auditorium for the Founder’s Day party. On the stage, Dame Beatrice Mellon rehearses a song, with Marina Popov accompanying her on the piano. Nearby, Yvette Brunette watches Dame Mellon when she should be setting a table. “If you are just going to sit there, we are going to have to get someone else to set the tables.” A voice says to Yvette. Yvette turns and sees Françoise Sarcelle glaring at her. “You know as well as I do, the reason your mother wants you here tonight, but you have to keep in mind that we also have to get this place ready for the event. We only have a few hours.”

“I know.” Yvette says, picking up some forks. “I just don’t know if I can do it.”

“Your mother has faith in you.” Sarcelle says. “The entire team does.”

“Thanks, but I hate to admit it, but I am terrified.” Yvette says, putting her head in her hands.

“If we all do our jobs, there is nothing to be afraid of.” Sarcelle says. He puts his hand on her back. “Now, forks go on the right.” Sarcelle then sees Baron Arthur Bronze enter the auditorium. Bronze watches from the rear of the room as Dame Mellon finishes her song. The workers stop what they are doing and politely applaud. Mellon smiles.

“Let’s take five, Marina.” She says to Marina Popov, who nods and gets up from the piano. Dame Mellon leaves the stage as Baron Bronze walks to the center of the room and stares at the ceiling. Hanging from the rafters is a huge net filled with red, white and blue balloons. Dame Mellon joins Bronze in the center of the room and looks up at the balloons. “Arthur.” She says, the two of them staring up at the ceiling. “You act as though you’ve never seen balloons before.” Bronze smiles and looks at Dame Mellon. He kisses her cheek.

“Beatrice, you look lovely.” He says.

“Thank you, darling.” She says. Bronze looks up at the balloons again. “My, you are fascinated by them aren’t you?”

“I’ve just never seen…” Bronze says.

“So many? Indeed. And just wait until I finish my last song this evening and they are released.” Dame Mellon says.

“Released?” Bronze says. “They are going to drop all of those balloons?”

“Yes, it seems that inside the balloons are little prizes. Look there.” She says, pointing to a centerpiece on one of the nearby tables. “In the center of the table are little plastic swords, and once I’ve finished delighting the masses, they are going to take a sword from the flowers and as the balloons are dropped, they will pop them.”

“It must be an American thing.” Bronze jokes.

“Oh Arthur, think of Christmas crackers.” Mellon quips. “Where is your sense of novelty?”

“I think I must have left it in Canada.” He smiles.

In her suite at the Black Towers Hotel, Lady Su Sian Lavender escorts a man to the door. “Thank you so much for returning it safely.” She says. She opens the door and the man leaves. Lavender then closes the door and goes to a bag that is sitting on the bed. Opening the bag, Lavender takes out a large purple colored jewel. “Brilliant.” She says to herself. “Not a scratch.” She places the jewel back into the bag and goes to a mini-bar and pours herself a drink.

“It’s a little early for that, isn’t it?” A voice says. Lavender turns and sees Mai Le at the door that joins the suite to the one next to it.

“Mai Le.” Lavender says. “Come and have a drink with me. We have much to celebrate.”

“Oh we do?” Mai Le asks.

“Yes, of course we do. The formula is complete, the Lavender Lynx has been returned, unscathed.” Lavender says.

“So you’ve heard from the Baron?” Mai Le asks.

“Well, no, not yet.” Lavender says, “But I am sure the balloons are all filled and just waiting to be dropped on Blackport’s unsuspecting citizens.”

Back at Jojo’s Diner, Audrey tries to get Ramona Vermillion to talk, but Ramona is consumed with grief. Audrey gets up from the table and joins Kirby and the others at the counter. “How is she?” Kirby asks.

“She is devastated.” Audrey says. “I don’t know how she is going to make it through this.” The door of the Diner opens and a young couple enters. They go over to Ramona’s table.

“Mom.” The young woman says. Ramona looks up at the young woman and begins to cry. She stands up and the two embrace.

“My beautiful Solana.” Ramona sobs.

“Who is that?” Kirby whispers to Audrey.

“That is Alva’s sister.” Audrey says. “And that’s her boyfriend, Diego.”

“Mom, I am so sorry.” Solana cries. “I am so, so sorry.” The two women take seats at the table and dry their eyes.

“Diego.” Ramona says, extending her hand.

“I am so sorry about Alva, Mrs. Vermillion.” Diego says, taking her hand.

“Thank you,” Ramona says, “but you two are here now.”

“And we are going to help you get through this.” Diego says. Audrey and the others watch the touching scene from the counter. Audrey begins to tear up.

“I need some air.” Audrey says, getting off of her stool.

“I will go with you.” Kirby says.

“I just need to be alone for a few minutes.” Audrey goes to the entrance of the diner and goes out into the brisk air. She goes over to a bench that is just outside the diner and sits down. Taking a deep breath, Audrey takes a pack of cigarettes and a lighter from her pocket. She takes out a cigarette and puts it to her lips.

“I thought you gave those up.” Audrey looks up and sees Jake Summers at the side of the diner.

“Jake.” She says. She takes the cigarette from her lips and springs to her feet. “Where have you been?” She hugs him. “Are you alright?” Jake doesn’t say anything, he just holds onto his sister. The door of the diner opens and Gavin Gold comes outside. He sees Audrey and Jake hugging.

“Hey.” Gavin says, walking over to them. “Are you ok?”

“I’m ok.” Jake says.

“I really am sorry about Alva.” Gavin says. “I wish there was something I could have done.”

“Come on, let’s get inside, it’s freezing out here.” Audrey says. “Aunt Jojo’s got coffee and pie.”

“You go ahead. I want to talk to Gavin for a minute.” Jake says. Audrey nods and goes back inside the diner.

“What do you need, Jake?” Gavin asks. Once Jake sees that Audrey is inside, he pulls out his gun and points it at Gavin.

“I need you to tell me what the hell is going on!” Jake says. Gavin looks down at Jake’s gun.

“What are you doing?” Gavin asks. “You don’t have to do this.”

“Don’t I?” Jake asks.

“I will tell you everything you want to know, Jake, just put the gun away.” Gavin says. Jake’s hand begins to shake. “Come on, put it away.” Jake’s eyes begin to tear up. “It’s ok.” Gavin says. Jake lowers his gun.

“She’s gone, Gavin.” Jake cries. “She’s dead, and it’s my fault.” Gavin puts his arm around Jake and helps him to the bench.

“It’s bigger than all of us, Jake. Alva just got caught up in it.” Gavin says.

“I should have protected her.” Jake says, wiping his eyes.

“You were in the hospital, Jake. There was nothing you could do.” Gavin says.

“I wasn’t in the hospital when Alva got shot.” Jake says.

“You weren’t?” Gavin asks. Jake shakes his head.

“I was going to ask her to marry me, you know that? I never even got the chance to give her the ring.” Jake says. And as though a light bulb has gone off, Gavin realizes that the ring he found in the balcony near Channing Steele’s body is the same ring that Jake is talking about.

“I’m sorry, Jake.” Gavin says. “Alva loved you very much.” Jake begins to cry again.

At the Black Towers Hotel, PlantCorp’s potential investor’s begin to assemble in a conference room. At the front of the room is a large television set. Lady Lavender smiles as she greets them. “They are in for a real treat, tonight.” She says to Rusty Nayler, who is next to her.

“You are really sure that they will choose to invest in PlantCorp after tonight’s meeting, aren’t you?” Rusty asks.

“Once they see our demonstration, I am certain they will invest, Mr. Nayler.” Lavender says.

“I know that I haven’t been as active a board member as I would like…” Rusty says.

“Once you are witness to tonight’s demonstration, I am sure that will change.” Lavender smiles. “Now if you would like to take a seat at the table that is set up for the board members…” She motions to a table nearby.

“Of course.” Rusty says.

“Refreshments will be served shortly.” She tells him. Rusty leaves and takes a seat at the long table.

“That’s interesting.” Mai Le says. “Even the members who have never really taken the time to come to any other meetings are here.”

“Word has gotten out that this is a can’t-miss evening, my dear.” Lady Lavender says. “It will be incredible.”

“I hope you are right.” Mai Le says.

“You worry too much to be so young.” Lavender says.

“And you’re not worried?” Mai Le asks.

“Not in the least.” Lavender says. “Arthur is on his way back from the Performing Arts Center. Everything is ready. Nothing can stop us now.”

Downstairs in the lobby of the hotel, Corrine Canary and Veronica Sable meet in a sitting area. “Corrine, I can’t talk long, the meeting is about to begin.”

“I just need reassurance.” Corrine says.

“I understand your concerns, Corrine. We have it all taken care of.” Sable says, looking at her wrist watch.

“And you are sure it will be safe?” Corrine asks. “You know my daughters are there.”

“Do you honestly think I would put members of your family or our organization in harm’s way?” Miss Sable asks. “And it’s not just our team we need to be concerned about. There are hundreds of lives in danger.”

“I understand that, Veronica.” Corrine says.

“And some of those people are not just random citizens. Some are members of my own family.” She says.

At the Performing Arts Center, Mayor Aubergine and his wife, Madalyn are shown into the auditorium by Madame Lillian Puce. “It looks lovely.” Mrs. Aubergine says.

“All of your hard work has paid off once again, Lillian.” Mayor Aubergine says.

“Thank you, Mayor. That is kind of you to say.” Puce says, looking a bit discouraged.

“You must not blame yourself for what happened at the hotel, Lillian.” Mrs. Aubergine says.

“I just feel so responsible for what happened to that poor young woman.” Madame Puce says.

“No one in Blackport holds you responsible.” Mayor Aubergine says.

“I appreciate you saying that, Mayor.” Madame Puce sees that other citizens have started to arrive. “Now please go and make yourselves comfortable.” She leaves them and goes to the entrance of the Performing Arts Center to greet the arriving guests. Nearby, Yvette and a few other servers wait to begin serving them. Across the room, François Sarcelle stands behind a bar, ready to make drinks. Yvette looks over at him and he gives her a nod. Yvette nods and picks up a tray of hors d'oeuvres. She goes over to Mr. and Mrs. Aubergine and presents them with the tray.

“Thank you.” Mrs. Aubergine says, taking a hors d'oeuvre. “They look delicious.”

“White wine?” Another server asks. Mr. Aubergine nods and the server pours them some. Yvette leaves the table and passes some members of the Black Family. Blanche White sees Yvette and crinkles her nose.

“Isn’t that Yvette?” White asks Mr. Boddy. Boddy looks over and sees Yvette, who smiles.

“Yes, indeed it is.” Boddy says.

“I am surprised that she would show her face in this town again after the con she tried to pull over on us.” Mrs. White says.

“Now, now, Blanche.” Coral Black says, as she takes a seat at the table. “Everyone deserves a second chance. Isn’t that right, John?” John smiles. Dr. Paul Mandarin joins them.

“Good evening everyone.” Mandarin says.

“Paul.” Coral says.

“Coral, I wanted to tell you that I checked in on Emily before coming over.” He says.

“And how is she doing?” Mrs. White asks.

“Physically, she is coming along…” Mandarin says. “But I have to admit, I am a bit concerned about her mental state.”

“Why do you say that, Paul?” Coral asks, concerned.

“Well, I don’t want to alarm you, Coral, but Emily seems to think that she was visited by an old friend.” He says.

“And why would that be cause for alarm?” Coral asks.

“The old friend that Emily says visited her…and I don’t know how to put this other than just being blunt. The friend Emily claims visited her is dead.” Paul says. Coral looks over at John.

“Hello everyone.” Jonathan Green says as he comes to the table. He is followed closely by Mindy Mint.

“Good evening Jonathan.” Mrs. White says.

“You all remember my daughter, Mindy.” Green says. They both take seats at the table as Yvette comes over to offer some hors d'oeuvres.

“You sure have grown up, Mindy.” John Boddy says. Mindy fakes a smile.

“I am afraid Mindy isn’t in much of a talking mood, this evening.” Green says. “After all that happened at the hotel yesterday, I sort of requested that Mindy join me.”

“You mean you forced me to come.” Mindy says. Yvette offers Coral some hors d'oeuvres.

“It’s nice to see you again, Yvette.” Coral says, taking a hors d’oeuvre.

“Thank you Miss Black. You look lovely.” Yvette says. Mrs. White frowns. “You too, Mrs. White. Care for a hors d'oeuvre?”

Outside the Performing Arts Center, a line of cars has started to form. In one of the cars, Jessie Sumac checks her makeup in the mirror. “You look great, Jess.” Chad Moss says. Jessie smiles at him, but continues to check her makeup. A few cars behind them are Patrick Plum and Darcy Puce.

“I still don’t know how you convinced me to come to this thing.” Patrick says, pulling at his necktie.

“It will be fun.” Darcy says.

“Oh, I’m sure.” He says.

Back inside, Nurse Pearl Ivory and her mother Opal have just arrived. Mindy sees Pearl from across the room and stands up. “Where are you going?” Mr. Green asks her.

“To say hi to someone, jeeze.” Mindy rolls her eyes as she walks away.

“She is quite a handful.” Green says. Mrs. White nods. Mindy makes her way over to Opal and Pearl.

“Mindy.” Pearl says, and they hug.

“Thank god.” Mindy says. “I was hoping you were going to be here.”

“Is it that bad?” Pearl asks.

“Worse.” Mindy says.

“Mindy, this is my mother, Opal.” Pearl introduces them.

“Hello.” Mrs. Ivory says.

“Hi.” Mindy says. They are joined by Pearl’s brother, C.J.

“And this is my brother, C.J.” Pearl says. Mindy’s eyes widen at the site of the handsome C.J. “This is Mindy.”

“So you are the famous Mindy Mint.” C.J. smiles.

“You’ve heard of me?” Mindy asks, forgetting her past as a child star for a moment.

“Well, I’ve seen a few of your movies.” C.J. winks. Mindy blushes. Mr. Green stands up from the table.

“Do you think I can sit with you guys at your table?” Mindy asks Pearl.

“Well, since Alphonse didn’t come, you can have his seat.” Pearl says, grabbing Mindy’s hand. “Come on.” They walk over to the table.

“It looks as though Mindy has found a better option.” Coral says to Mr. Green, who takes his seat.

“She’ll be fine, Jonathan.” Mrs. White says. Jessie Sumac and Chad Moss enter the auditorium and go over to the table Pearl, Opal, C.J. and Mindy are sitting at.

“Hey.” Jessie says. “How’s everybody doing?”

“Great.” Mindy says, not very convincing. Jessie and Chad takes seats at the table.

Across the auditorium, François Sarcelle prepares bottles of champagne to be served to the guests. Carefully, he takes a small vial from his pocket and opens the lid. Looking to make sure that no one is watching him, Sarcelle takes the vial and dumps a bit of its contents into each of the bottles of champagne. Yvette comes to the bar. Sarcelle puts the vial back into his jacket pocket and turns to Yvette. “Here are some bottles of champagne. It is imperative that these bottles make it to the correct tables.” Yvette looks at the bottles. “This one needs to go to the Black Family’s table.” He says, placing the bottle onto a silver tray. “Do you understand?”

“Yeah, the Black’s get this one. Got it.” Yvette says. She picks up the tray and goes over to the Black Family’s table.

“Here comes the champagne.” Mrs. White says, sitting up straight in her chair.

“Sorry we’re late.” A voice calls to the table. They turn and see Argent Silver, Prof. Peter Plum and Heather Grey.

“Argent.” John Boddy says, standing up. They embrace. John goes over and pulls out Mrs. Silver’s chair while Peter helps Heather to her seat. Yvette begins to pour the champagne as they all greet one another.

“Pete, I hear congratulations are in order.” John says.

“Thank you.” Peter says. “We are very happy.” Peter’s smile quickly fades as he sees Patrick and Darcy enter the room. Darcy and Patrick go over to the Mayor’s table.

“Miss Puce,” Mayor Aubergine says, standing up, “how lovely it is to see you again.”

“Thank you, Mayor.” Darcy smiles.

“And who is this handsome young man?” Mrs. Aubergine asks.

“Mrs. Aubergine, Mayor. This is Patrick Plum.” Darcy says. Patrick and the Mayor shake hands. Yvette finishes pouring the champagne for the Black Family and goes back to the bar. Sarcelle has another bottle already on a tray and he hands it to her.

“This one goes to the Mayor’s table.” He says. Yvette nods and takes the tray. Back at the Mayor’s table, Warden Trevor Whitehurst and his wife have joined them. Yvette comes over and offers them champagne.

“Yes, please.” Darcy says, holding up her glass. Yvette fills Darcy’s glass.

“If you just leave the bottle, we will have the champagne after we’ve finished our wine.” The Mayor says. Yvette nods and places the bottle on the table.

“I will go and get ice.” She leaves and goes back to the bar.

“Would you like some champagne, Mrs. Whitehurst?” Mayor Aubergine asks.

“No, thank you, Mayor.” She says. “I am afraid I am taking some allergy medication and won’t be drinking alcohol.”

“Well then, order whatever you like.” Mrs. Aubergine says as Yvette returns with a bucket of ice.

“My wife would like some sparkling water.” Warden Whitehurst says to Yvette. “In the meantime, I am going to have a bit of the bubbly.”

“Easy does it.” Mrs. Whiterhurst says.

At the Performing Arts Center’s entrance, Madame Puce greets Ralph Bleachum, Matthew Steele and Kelley Meadow-Brook. They are followed in by Patricia and Rachel Peacock.

“I don’t think mother is here yet.” Kelley says as she goes over to their table. Matt helps her with her chair. “Thanks.” Matt takes a seat next to her. “You know, I told you that you didn’t have to come tonight.” She tells him.

“I know you did.” Matt smiles. “But I wanted to be here.” Rachel and Patricia join them.

“I would have thought they would have had this in a more elegant place than this.” Mrs. Peacock says, looking up at the balloons that are high above them. Mr. Bleachum looks up in amazement.

“Mother, once you have a drink or two you won’t even remember where you are.” Rachel says, sitting down.

“Rachel!” Mrs. Peacock says. Mr. Bleachum tries to stifle a laugh. Yvette comes over with a bottle of champagne, followed by another waiter who has hors d'oeuvres. Rachel picks up her glass and is about to have Yvette pour her some champagne when Mrs. Peacock puts her hand over the glass. “I don’t think so, young lady.” She gives Yvette a dirty look. “My daughter will be having soda pop.”

“Mother, I am twenty-one years old for god’s sake!” Rachel says.

“But you are also driving me home later.” Peacock says.

“Why can’t Matt or Mr. Bleachum take you home?” Rachel says. “This blows.” She gets up from the table.

“Please excuse her.” Mrs. Peacock says to Mr. Bleachum.

“Mother, I wouldn’t mind giving you a ride home later. We’ve got to be at the hotel early tomorrow, so Ralph and I aren’t drinking tonight.” Matt says.

“Matthew, your sister doesn’t need to drink. She is still recovering.” Peacock says.

At the bar, Yvette returns with the empty bottle and hands it to Sarcelle. “I need to go check on the supply of liquor.” He says. “Can you stay here and watch the bar until I get back?”

“Sure.” Yvette says. She goes behind the bar. Sarcelle leaves.

“Hey.” Mindy whispers to Jessie. “Come on.”

“Where are you going?” Chad asks, when Jessie and Mindy stand up.

“Ladies room.” They say in unison.

“Of course.” Chad says. He looks at C.J. who shrugs.

“They always go together, I don’t get it either.” He smiles. Mindy and Jessie head off towards the bathroom, making a stop at the bar. Yvette smiles when she sees them.

“May I help you?” She asks.

“Do you think we could score something to drink?” Mindy asks.

“I don’t think this is a good idea.” Jessie says. Mindy hits her. “Ouch.” Jessie says.

“Come on, can’t we just get a little champagne?” Mindy asks. Yvette looks around then pulls out two small plastic cups from under the bar.

“Here, but don’t tell anyone where you got this.” Yvette says. She fills the cups with champagne. Yvette sees Sarcelle heading back to the bar. “Now take it and go.” She tells them. Mindy and Jessie hurry off. Rachel Peacock comes to the bar.

“May I have some champagne, please?” Rachel asks.

“Sure.” Yvette says. Sarcelle comes back behind the bar.

“Any problems?” He asks.

“Nope.” Yvette smiles. She hands Rachel the glass and sees Mindy and Jessie go into the bathroom with their cups.

“This bottle needs to go to the Meadow-Brooks.” Sarcelle says. He picks up the bottle and notices that it isn’t full.

“Hey, did you serve anybody some of the champagne from this bottle?” He asks Yvette.

“I don’t know. All of the bottles look the same to me.” Yvette lies.

“Great.” Sarcelle says. “Now I have to doctor up another one. I don’t have a lot of this stuff left.” He takes out the vial and pours the white powder into another bottle. “Take this to the table four.” He says, handing Yvette the bottle.

“Sorry.” She says. “I didn’t know.”

“It’s ok. But whoever got the champagne from that other bottle owes you their lives.” He says. In the bathroom, Jessie and Mindy drink the champagne from the plastic cups Yvette gave them. Mindy throws her empty cup into a trashcan as Mrs. White enters.

“Hello, girls.” Mrs. White says. Mindy and Jessis giggle and quickly leave the bathroom. Mrs. White shrugs.

Back in the auditorium, Kirby Canary and Copper Smith have joined Chad, Pearl, Opal and CJ. Mindy and Jessie come back to the table. “What is she doing at this table?” Kirby asks when Mindy takes a seat.

“Miss Mint is my date.” C.J. says. He winks at an embarrassed Mindy. Kirby makes a face at Mindy, who sticks her tongue out.

“Charming.” Kirby says. Jessie and Mindy giggle. “Copper, I need a drink.”

“The waitress will be coming ‘round soon.” Mrs. Ivory says.

“Champagne, Copper.” Kirby says. Copper stands up and walks towards the bar. He passes Yvette who is just returning from the Meadow-Brook’s table.

“I’ve never had a taste for champagne.” Opal Ivory says. François Sarcelle is serving another guest, when Copper and Yvette arrive at the bar at the same time.

“Can I get you something?” Yvette asks Copper.

“A glass of champagne, please.” He tells her.

“Coming right up.” Yvette says as she goes behind the bar. Taking the same bottle she served Mindy and Jessie from, Yvette pours a glass and hands it to Copper. “Here you go.” She smiles.

“Thank you.” Copper says. He leaves with the glass and goes back to the table.

Up on the stage, Madame Puce comes out from behind a curtain. The guests begin to applaud. “Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Blackport’s 250th Anniversary Celebration!” She says. The guests applaud. “Tonight, we have a very special treat for you.” Backstage, Dame Mellon nervously paces.

“Come now.” Marina Popov says, she then hands an empty champagne glass to a waitress.

“I haven’t performed in front of a crowd in a very long time.” Mellon says.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present Dame Beatrice Mellon.” Madame Puce says. The audience cheers. While in the conference room at the Black Towers, Lady Lavender switches on the large television set.

“In a few moments,” Lavender addresses the board members and potential investors, “you will be witness to a demonstration.” She says. “What you are watching is taken from a secret camera that is, at this very moment, recording a party at the Blackport Performing Arts Center. Everything that you are seeing is happening live.” Dame Mellon introduces Marina Popov, who takes her place at the piano. Madame Puce joins Darcy and Patrick at the Mayor’s table.

“Mother we saved you some champagne.” Darcy says, handing her a glass. The Mayor lifts his glass and they toast as Dame Mellon begins her song.

“Where is your sister?” Madame Puce whispers to Darcy.

“She is running late.” Darcy says. “She said she would be here before the balloon drop.” At the bar, Mr. Sarcelle is busy mixing drinks, as Yvette waits.

“You took your dose, right?” He asks her.

“Yes, I did.” Yvette says. “But, I still don’t understand what is going on.”

“You’ll see. Just be glad we gave you that elixir.” Sarcelle says. Suddenly, his cell phone vibrates in his pocket. “Shoot.” He says.

“What’s wrong?” Yvette asks.

“Text message.” Sarcelle says, taking his phone from his pocket. “Oh god.” Sarcelle says.

“What’s it say? What’s wrong?” Yvette asks.

“Nothing, it’s ok.” He lies. “Take these drinks out.” Yvette, confused, takes the tray of drink and leaves the bar area. Another waitress comes up.

“I need two rum and cokes and a Cosmo.” She says.

“It’s going to have to wait.” Sarcelle says. He closes his cell phone and hurries from behind the bar. Dame Mellon finishes her song and the audience applauds.

“Now, I have been told that I need to let you all in on a little secret.” Mellon says to the crowd. “After I finish my next aria, all of the balloons that are gathered high above you will be dropped.” The audience looks up at the balloons. Meanwhile, Sarcelle goes to the lobby, passing Kelsey Puce on his way. “In the center pieces on all of the tables, you will find tacky little plastic swords. Once the balloons are dropped, take a sword and pop the balloon and inside you will find, what I have been told, is a prize.” Dame Mellon says. “Some of the prizes include vouchers for a meal at la Madeline Café, or a two night stay in a suite at the Black Towers.” The audience applauds. “So once I belt up, pop those balloons and find out what your prize might be!” Marina Popov begins to play the piano. In the lobby, Mr. Sarcelle is on his cell phone.

“Joo have reached Pierre Lettuce, leave me a message and I weel geet back to joo.” Pierre Lettuce’s outgoing voicemail message says.

“Babe, I got your text and I wanted to tell you that you can not come here. I can’t explain, but please listen to me and do not come to the Performing Arts Center.” Sarcelle says. Yvette comes out to the lobby.

“Hey, are you alright?” Yvette asks.

“No.” Sarcelle says. “The text message I got was from my boyfriend, Pierre. He is on his way over here.”

“Oh no.” Yvette says.

“If he is anywhere inside this building when those balloons are popped, he will die.” Sarcelle says.

“Well, send him a text and tell him not to come.” Yvette says.

“Yeah, that’s a good idea. I left him a voice message. Shoot. I gotta get back to the bar.” He looks inside and sees waitresses and waiters waiting to place drink orders. Sarcelle begins to text Pierre as he walks back to the bar.

“Go.” Yvette says. “I am sure he won’t show up.” Outside, Pierre Lettuce pulls into a parking space and gets out of his car. Inside the car, Lettuce’s cell phone flashes “one new text message arrived”. In the auditorium, Dame Mellon has started to sing a romantic aria. At a table, Kelley Meadow-Brook nuzzles up to Matthew Steele. Hunter Meadow-Brook smiles at Carrie Bluebell. He offers her some champagne, but she declines. Taking a sip from his glass, Hunter slyly reaches his hand over and touches Carrie’s. She moves her fingers closer to his. Jane Meadow-Brook smiles in approval. Taking a sip from her champagne, Jane turns her attention back to Dame Mellon. Rachel Peacock rejoins them and takes a seat. Mrs. Peacock looks over at her.

“You know I am just looking out for you, darling.” Mrs. Peacock says.

“I know, mother.” Rachel says. “But I am not a child.”

“But you will always be my baby.” Patricia says as she takes a drink from her champagne. At the Black’s table, Heather excuses herself.

“Are you feeling alright, dear?” Mrs. Silver asks Heather.

“I need some air.” Heather says.

“You are going to miss the balloon drop.” Mrs. White says.

“It’s alright, Mrs. White. I think I can do without a free meal at a French restaurant.” Heather says. She leaves and goes toward the lobby. Patrick watches as Heather goes out of the auditorium and he excuses himself from his table, taking his champagne with him. Darcy Puce is not pleased. Her sister, Kelsey leans into her.

“He’s hot, Darcy.” She smiles. Out in the lobby, Heather takes a seat on an overstuffed couch. Patrick joins her.

“Hello, Heather.” Patrick says. “I must say, pregnancy suits you. You are glowing.”

“Patrick, please.” Heather says. “I am nauseous enough as it is, you aren’t helping matters.”

“Oh.” Patrick says, plopping down next to her. “Can I get you something?”

“This will do.” Heather says, taking his glass and gulping what is left of the champagne.

“Hey, you aren’t supposed to be drinking in your condition!” Patrick says.

“A little champagne isn’t going to hurt me. It might even help.” Heather says. In the conference room at the Black Towers, the investors watch the screen in anticipation.

“Once those balloons are released and the guests begin to pop them, PlantCorp’s greatest achievement will be clearly evident.” Lavender says. She smiles at Veronica Sable, who has s sick feeling in her stomach. Sable can barley bring herself to watch. Across town, on the Black Estate, Corrine Canary wanders around the grounds, arriving at the Black Family Mausoleum. Pushing the heavy stone door open, she turns on a flashlight and enters the damp building.

“I don’t know why you insisted on meeting me here.” Corrine says as she stumbles in the darkness.

“It is the safest place.” A man’s voice says.

“The safest place?” Corrine says. “You must be joking. You realize that almost the entire population of this town is about to die.”

“We have done all we can to save as many lives as possible, Mrs. Canary.” The voice says. “It is out of my hands.”

“Out of your hands?” Corrine asks. “You, of all people should know what it is like to be a victim of PlantCorp!”

“I am no victim.” The voice says. “The amount of the elixir that would be required to save the lives of everyone at that party is astronomical. We do not have the resources. We’ve done all we can.”

In the conference room, Lady Lavender and her guests watch the screen as the net that contains the hundreds of balloons is opened and the balloons begin to fall. The excited guests of the Founder’s Day Party have their little plastic swords in their hands, ready to pop the balloons and claim their prizes. As the sound of the balloons popping begins, Pierre Lettuce enters the Performing Arts Center and passes Heather Grey and Patrick Plum in the lobby. From the bar, François Sarcelle sees Lettuce enter the auditorium, but it is too late for him to do anything, for the guests have already started to pop the balloons. On stage, Dame Mellon and Marina Popov watch in amusement as the well-dressed people begin to clamor for the slips of paper that were inside the balloons. Their amusement quickly turns to horror as they see people collapsing to the floor of the auditorium. “Something is wrong.” Dame Mellon says as the balloons continue to fall. Dame Mellon suddenly gasps and drops to the stage. As the citizens of Blackport begin to collapse one by one, the sound of the balloons popping begins to stop. The last balloons fall from the ceiling, while in the conference room the investors and members of PlantCorp’s board of directors begin to applaud. Veronica Sable looks away from the screen, and a tear runs down her cheek. Rusty looks on in shock. In the lobby of the Performing Arts Center, Patrick Plum and Heather Grey lie motionless on the couch. In the doorway of the auditorium Pierre Lettuce and Peter Plum lie unconscious. Across the room, François Sarcelle and Yvette Brunette have collapsed behind the bar. While on the other side of the bar, Pearl and C.J. Ivory have collapsed with Pearl still holding a champagne glass in her hand. At the Mayor’s table, Madalyn Aubergine has fallen across the table and the Mayor has collapsed in his chair. Darcy, Kelsey and Madame Puce, along with Mr. and Mrs. Whitehurst lie nearby. At their table, Kirby Canary has fallen on top of Copper and Jessie Sumac lies next to Chad Moss. Mindy Mint sits unconscious in her chair, an inflated balloon falls from her lifeless hand. Opal Ivory lies nearby. At table number four, Jane Meadow-Brook has collapsed onto the table while Rachel Peacock, Matthew Steele, Carrie Bluebell, Hunter and Kelley Meadow-Brook and Ralph Bleachum lay motionless on the floor. Patricia Peacock has fallen back into her chair, and champagne has spilled onto her peacock blue gown. Near the stage, John Boddy, Jonathan Green, Paul Mandarin, Mrs. White, Argent Silver and Coral Black lie around their table, each one of them unconscious. The deathly silence that has filled the auditorium is broken by a blood-curdling scream from Marina Popov. Finally, Popov succumbs to the poison that lingers in the air and she collapses to the stage. In the Black Family Mausoleum, Corrine Canary turns to leave when the sound of a cell phone ringing stops her in her tracks. Slowly she turns to face the man she was talking with.

“It is done.” The man solemnly tells her.

TO BE CONTINUED…