Man of Blood

Man of Blood

His name was Thomas Hendicott, a 13 year-old boy who lived in Victorian London. He lived with his parents and four older siblings. Three brothers and one sister. Thomas had a desire for having an acting career later in his life. He used to dress up and play with his friends when he was younger. His favourite role was to be the king. One of his brothers Austin was an amateur singer and their sister Sarah a painter. There was definitely an artistic side on the Hendicott family and Thomas admired his two siblings in their respective artistic fields. However, art was not how the Hendicott family earned their income. The father Ernest Hendicott was the Governor of the Bank of England. And the mother Amy Hendicott was a lady-in-waiting to Queen Victoria. They met each other at one of the many royal ceremonies. They were all a very happy family. Each one of them, including the parents had their own respective goals and aspirations.

One day Sarah was in luck, one of her paintings was selected for the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition. Her parents were very proud of her, and the siblings as well. The event took place on a Wednesday afternoon in a very big hall. The family attended. Thomas never had an interest in her sister’s paintings but he was happy for her nonetheless. He observed a strange painting in which a man was having a discombobulated face with bright green eyes, but the Iris had the shape of a flame. The man also had horns instead of ears. The next painting showed a nude woman, but the lower body was a mountain. Down this mountain were green fields that would also call the attention of everyone who sees the picture. The background had a blue sky. Thomas stared at the artwork for several seconds. A man approached and asked Thomas if he had any comments on the picture. The boy told him that he liked the girl. The man answered that he was the artist who painted the artwork, and that you should always paint about things you like. Thomas kept walking to the next painting, and this time he saw a man soaked in blood with a smile on his face. The background was a wall of fire burning like hell. He told his father that he liked that one. Ernest said that young people always like strange and disturbing stuff. The family approached to Sarah’s painting. Thomas’s sister’s artwork consisted in a very beautiful palace, tall and large. Angels were flying and chasing one another at the top of the structure, forming the shape of England’s map. Sarah’s boyfriend was looking at the image with excitement. His name was Patrick Hamilton. He was a Scotland Yard detective, and he was very close to his soon-to-be father-in-law Ernest. The family greeted him. Ernest invited the Scotland Yard officer for dinner later at night, and Patrick accepted. Ernest’s brother arrived. He congratulated his niece Sarah with a hug and was also invited to the home later for supper. The Uncle’s name was Edwin, and he was the owner of one of London’s greatest theatres. The name of the place was “Red and White Dragons”. When the exhibition came to an end, they all went to the Hendicott home. The house was very big and accommodated. At dinner time, they talked about things like politics, the future of England, and new ways to make money. While in the latter Ernest proposed Edwin to be business partners and have an Italian food restaurant. Edwin thought of it as an excellent idea, and accepted his brother’s proposal. Then Edwin said that they could even hire Thomas at the new business and this one agreed with enthusiasm. Later they started talking about family. Ernest and Edwin brought up the subject of their parents’s tragedy. Their father had alcohol addiction. He mistreated their mother physically and psychologically, it was horrible. One day their father died of a heart attack, and eventually their mother committed suicide. After having dessert, Patrick and Sarah went to the attic. They sat on the floor and kissed each other. They were going to get married soon and started talking about all their plans and dreams they had together as a couple. Later they had sex at Sarah’s bedroom. The next day Patrick and Sarah went to Hyde park. They sat at a bench, and after snogging for a while. Patrick talked to her about a terrible case he was investigating as a detective. He was searching for a man who was in hiding named Jeremy Pestock. The criminal had molested six teenagers in a year. Sarah felt sorry for the victims, and told Patrick to be careful. She changed the subject mentioning that her brother, Austin was going to compete at a singing competition with his band, in which he was the vocalist at the Royal Albert Hall. Patrick said they should go see him at the event, and Sarah answered that was her plan all along.

Two days later the competition started at the important venue, it was packed with people from all over England. The Hendicott family were in the front row. When Austin appeared on stage, the Hendicotts clapped with joy. The band was introduced by their name, which was “black sun”. The boys started playing the instruments and Thomas’s brother started singing with his tuned voice. The song was about a man who wanted to get back at his ex girlfriend for breaking her promises.

At the end of the song the crowd shouted with acclaim. Later, when the full event ended, the judges declared Austin Hendicott the winner of the competition, and awarded him a gold medal. It was Austin’s first accomplishment as a musician, and a big one at that. The next Saturday he had a party with his friends and young members of his family to celebrate at his home. At the party Thomas sat at a table with a glass of Vodka, and began thinking about his expectations for the future. He felt happy and optimistic. A brown-haired girl approached and sat beside him, introducing herself as Kate Blank. Kate was an Austin’s friend’s cousin. Thomas told her he would like to become an actor, but for now he had not taken action because he thought himself too young to succeed. Kate answered he had to fight for his dreams, and that it is never too early or too late to start. Thomas affirmed with his head, and asked about her goals and dreams. Kate told him she wanted to become a mathematics teacher, and that she would start studying the career as soon as she finished school. Thomas asked the servant for a second glass of vodka, and also told Kate to ask for something. But Kate refused, saying she didn’t drink alcohol as a rule. The servant came back with the alcoholic drink, and Thomas started drinking. Kate said that if she knew earlier that Thomas was that of a heavy drinker, she wouldn’t had begun a conversation with him. Thomas asked her if that was a hint. Kate smiled and told him to behave himself first. Thomas moved away the cup with his hand to the other side of the table, then asked Kate if she would go with him to the circus tomorrow night. Kate accepted with another smile. The following night Thomas went out to the street in his carriage with his personal driver leading the horses. They picked up Kate and headed to the circus. It was a gorgeous sunset in Victorian London. Thomas looked outside through the window. He was joyfully observing the buildings, the castles, and all the beauties the city had to offer, and he thought “how lucky I am to live here!”. They reached their destination, and hopped off the carriage. The circus had many tents. Thomas and Kate walked to the big top, which was red and yellow-coloured. Once inside, they sat at the front row and soon after, the show started. First, some athletes, then it was time for the clown. This one had green hair. At one moment, the entertainer shook hands with Thomas, and pulled him up, dragging him onto the stage. The clown did the same with three more men from the crowd. Then he made each one of them lie in a chair, forming a human chair pyramid with their bodies. The clown then removed the chairs, and the bodies stood still. When Thomas returned to his sit alongside Kate, she had a wonderful look on her face. He loved it, and touched her hand. When the show ended Thomas wanted to meet the clown personally, so he talked to the circus staff, mentioning he was the son of the Governor of the Bank of England. And they allowed him to enter backstage. He and Kate went into the clown’s room. The man was taking off his makeup.

Clown: who comes?

Thomas: my name is Thomas Hendicott, I am one of the members of the crowd you used for the pyramid. I would like to meet you.

The clown turned around to look at Thomas and Kate.

Clown: my name is Henry Carlile, I have been working at the circus since I was a kid. I haven’t know any other life. First I was an athlete, but I had an accident that almost cost me my life. Being the circus’s clown is a safer job.

Thomas: I’m sorry to hear about your accident. I imagine it must be very hard to be an athlete for the shows.

Henry: nah, it just requires a bit of training, not much more than that. Still; we haven’t found a new prospect in a month. One of the members of our team resigned because he wanted a more “happy life” so to speak.

Thomas: you are implying people who work here lack bliss.

Henry: we spend our lives travelling from one place to another with no chance at coming up in life away from poverty.

Thomas: I would like to become an actor. But I think performing in a circus is also fascinating. To show off your skills, so people admire what you do. It’s art, and I love art.

Henry: I wish I shared you passion… wait a minute.

Henry had a thoughtful face.

Henry: would you be willing to join us as an Aerialist for just one show? You look like someone from a wealthy family. But you have an athlete’s body and spirit. You might be the prospect we need. Damn, the circus owner might even reward me if I bring him a new Aerialist for a most important show. The circus is celebrating its anniversary in a few weeks. We would ideally need an Aerialist with several years of experience, but since we haven’t found anyone yet; I guess you would do. It’s urgent we find someone.

Thomas: I can’t do this, I mean, I’d love to, but I have no experience at all.

Henry: like I said, it just requires a few days of training to perform decently in a show. The rest is just blabber.

Thomas: fine, as long as I don’t get myself killed.

Henry: that’s the first thought of every new Aerialist who later becomes an adept in the air! I’ll talk to Mister Andrews, the owner of the circus. You can come tomorrow to start your training. Trust me, you are going to get it done. And it will be super fun.

Thomas and Kate said goodbye to Henry the clown. When they were walking to the carriage, Kate had something to say.

Kate: you will manage this, I’m certain.

Thomas: if I’m able to pull this off, I will be likelier to become an actor sometime in the future.

Kate: absolutely Thomas, I believe in you.

Thomas: thank you

Kate: I was wondering, would you come with me to a botanical garden tomorrow afternoon? I want to spend some more time with you.

Thomas: you can count on it. I will go pick you up right after I finish training at the circus.

They hopped on the carriage, Thomas left Kate at her home, and then finally he reached his. Thomas went to bed, but he could not fall asleep because he was very excited for everything that had happened in just one day. He liked Kate a lot, and he also had the chance to prove himself at the circus. He started thinking that things are not always as bad as they may seem. That sometimes one event in just a moment can change your life for the better. The following day he went to the circus, and met Mister Andrews. Thomas did very well at the training session, and then Jacob Andrews invited him to his office.

Jacob: because of the way my life has been, I turned into a very religious person. I go to church every Sunday.

Thomas: are you trying to tell me something, Mister Andrews?

Jacob: I notice there’s something special in you. You seem… different, from others.

Thomas: is that good? Or bad?

Jacob: I don’t know, you tell me. Let me ask you something; have you ever committed a sin?

Thomas stared at Jacob in silence.

Jacob: I haven’t been a good man my entire life. I did something terrible, I regret it every day. When I was younger I killed my brother, the only one I had, so I could keep all of my parents’s money after their death. The deed allowed me to be the founder of this circus, but the cost has been high in my mind. I’m always haunted. Perhaps I was too greedy, too naïve to understand life doesn’t work that way.

Thomas: I suppose you didn’t go to prison.

Jacob: you are right. I was able to remain unnoticed. It’s been many decades. Forgive my bragging, but I’m a very smart man. I knew how to act, how to cover my tracks. The police never found me.

Thomas: I’m surprised you are trusting me with this.

Jacob: If I have learned anything in life, is that it gets much easier and happier if you know how to avoid making mistakes. One mistake can ruin you forever.

Thomas: I appreciate your lecture, Mister Andrews. Hopefully I won’t make something I later regret.

Jacob: think on what we just talked about, before it’s too late.

Thomas headed to pick up Kate on his carriage. Then they went to a botanical garden. Once inside she told him she was looking forward to seeing him compete as an Aerialist. Thomas changed the subject, mentioning he was also offered a job at his father and uncle’s restaurant, but the place was yet to be established, since Ernest and Edwin had not yet found a spot to rent so far. They were looking all the plants there were at the place. Thomas was enjoying Kate’s company but he didn’t have any interest in the garden at all. So after some time, he asked her if she would like to go to a eat something. She accepted. When they were outside, they started to head to the city centre, while holding hands. They conveyed their feelings for one another, and they had their first kiss as a couple under a small bridge. Later they reached a restaurant, and they sat at a table. After the waiter took their order, the place’s owner approached and began a conversation, introducing himself as James Danielson.

James: it’s good to have a young couple in my restaurant. It reminds me of my teenage years.

Thomas: this is our first time eating out together. And I thought this place was the right one, my brother Austin talks about it every week.

James: aah you are Austin’s brother! He comes for Fish and chips every Friday night.

Thomas: I just ordered that one! If it’s as good as Austin says, I might even join him every Friday.

James: there’s nothing I’d like more. But unfortunately we are closing our doors very soon.

Thomas: really? Why? This place must be a very profitable business.

James: it is indeed, but I have decided to immigrate to the United States. I crave for better weather. My plan is to find work in California.

Thomas: any specific city?

James: I have heard wonders of Los Angeles. I am going there, and ask god for success.

Thomas: what will happen to this spot? Will there be a new restaurant here?

James: that is something that’s keeping me from pressing on with my adventure. I haven’t found anyone willing to rent this place. I’m the owner of this establishment and I can’t let go of it just like that.

Thomas: my father and uncle are looking for a place like this. They want to run a business of Italian food. Why don’t you talk to them? Maybe they are interested in solving your problem.

James: that would be fantastic. Tell them to come whenever they are able, to see if maybe we do business.

Thomas: will do. I’m sure they will be interested. They are both very busy, but they will come eventually.

A few weeks later the Royal Academy Dinner took place, and Sarah attended. Queen Victoria was present at the festivity. This event consists in a sophisticated dinner, in which being a part of is considered a privilege. And selected Artists are awarded for their works. Sarah sat alongside a man who had long hair and a mustache. This man introduced himself to Sarah as George Trebilcock. He was the owner of an enormous and luxurious museum called “King of Lions”. The Queen gave a speech

“Our land and our people have been graced by God. We have been blessed with a small island named England. In spite of the size of our beautiful home, we have been able to cross oceans, to conquer new lands, to bring our culture and powerful heritage to different places in further corners of the world. We have also been able to make our economy rise, and be an example for other nations who are still behind us, in what we call “progress”. We have faced many challenges, challenges that we have overcome with God’s help. And I would like to thank the Lord for putting these obstacles in our way, because they have given us the power to grow stronger, to learn from our human mistakes, and to build one of the most important empires the world has ever known. The Lord has given English people many important gifts. One of them is none other than a divine skill known as art. This is why we are here tonight. To celebrate and award our artists. And to let them know they are important. Because God has provided you with surprising skills, skills that most people do not have. As the Queen of England, I ask you to never stop doing what you do best. I ask you to keep creating art. And to show the world what English people are capable of. Enjoy the night”.

Everyone clapped at Queen Victoria, and then the dinner started. George and Sarah were talking to each other about their lives, until George mentioned something important.

“It’s true what the Queen said about other parts of the world. Speaking of other places, you know. A strange sword arrived to my museum a few weeks ago from Egypt. It belonged to a warrior named Dewen. I have it on exhibition, but people feel like a special aura when they are around the object. Some say it holds a very powerful secret, others say it is bewitched”.

Sarah found very interesting what George said about the weapon, and she said she would go to see it at the museum. Probably with her boyfriend Patrick, and also her family. Later at the ceremony, Sarah was awarded with a gold medal by Queen Victoria herself. The following week Ernest organised a lunch at home, and invited all the members of the Hendicott family, to celebrate Sarah’s achievement. Thomas and Kate were present. While they were at the house yard with the rest of the guests, they met a girl of their same age named Erin Scotfield. She was a Thomas’s second cousin’s stepsister. Erin was obviously also at school, and she wanted to become a nurse later in life, just like her mother. Her stepfather was a doctor, and he was related to Thomas through Thomas’s mother. Thomas was drinking Vodka, and Erin was drinking white wine, whereas Kate was drinking a glass of water, since she never drank alcohol. The couple told Erin about how they met, and started going out. She congratulated them, and mentioned she was single at the moment. Erin then stopped talking to Thomas and Kate, and turned her attention to other people who was present at the celebration. Thomas felt something that was hard to explain. He thought Erin had something special. She was very different from Kate in a positive way. Everyone sat at the main table inside the house. And Thomas was trying to look at Erin without anyone else noticing. After the meal, some guests remained inside, while others returned to the yard. Thomas and Kate were outside, and Thomas kept drinking Vodka. Kate looked at him in an ugly way. Edwin approached them and said that he had invited Ernest and Austin to a bar the next week. And asked the couple if they wanted to join. They accepted, but Kate was not pleased. At night, the event was still with guests, but some of them began to leave, Erin was among them. After congratulating Sarah again, and saying goodbye. She went to Thomas and Kate to do the same. Thomas hid his emotions and acted normal. He was very confused in his head, because his feelings for Kate had not yet vanished.

Thomas woke up the next morning, and he felt strangely afraid. Afraid of his dreams of being an actor not becoming true. He felt he had to do something desperate about it. Both of his siblings had earned important artistic accomplishments. He felt happy for them, but not for him. Thomas thought that maybe his uncle Edwin would be willing to help him. He was the owner of a luxurious theatre after all. Thomas came up with the plan of talking to his uncle about his worries the next week at the bar. Thomas was already committed to the circus, but he saw his dream as a priority. He was to perform at the circus just once, so he thought that maybe he could do both things at the same time, or maybe his uncle could wait for him to perform at the circus, and then help him become an actor. Two days later, Thomas and Kate were at the botanical garden again, against Thomas’s wishes. She asked him about how the training was going for the circus. And Thomas said that unexpectedly very good. He was making big jumps, and was already spinning in the air with agility. Thomas said that it looks harder than it actually is. He told Kate about an experience he had while he was resting after the training session, and preparing to leave. He was seated inside the tent along the other athletes, when a boy of his similar age talked to him, asking if he liked to drink. When Thomas answered that yes indeed he liked to drink, the boy told him he would wait for him outside. The boy mentioned they had something to talk about. Thomas changed his clothes and left the tent. And the mysterious boy was there as he said he would be. He introduced himself as Nicholas Fish. He told Thomas he was discontent with the salary Mister Andrews paid. Nicholas said the man was rich and selfish. Then Thomas asked Nicholas what his point was, and Nicholas said he wanted to kill Mister Andrews, and he thought that Thomas would be a good partner in crime. Thomas was horrified, and took his time to answer what Nicholas had just conveyed. Eventually Thomas said that Mister Andrews was a good man, and then told Nicholas to seek psychological help instead. Nicholas then asked Thomas about his hobbies, strangely changing the subject. Thomas just kept answering Nicholas’s questions, until they said goodbye to each other. Thomas thought about warning Mister Andrews about Nicholas’s intentions. But then he thought that the boy was immature and would not actually kill Mister Andrews. Maybe he just needed someone to talk to, like a friend or a family member. Kate was shocked when she heard this story at the botanical garden. She insisted Thomas to warn Mister Andrews, but Thomas paid no mind.

On Saturday Thomas woke up at his bed, but this time he was happy, because that very same Saturday was the day when he would go with Kate, Austin, his father Ernest, and his uncle Edwin to the bar. He was finally going to ask his uncle Edwin to help him become an actor. That night they were at the bar. This one was one of the most expensive bars in London. Thomas was having a vodka as always. He hesitated a lot, but eventually asked his uncle about how he could help him become an actor. Edwin said that he could just start working in the theatre as such, but Edwin asked for something in return. He wanted to visit a bar located in The Devil’s Acre. This neighbourhood was one of the poorest and most dangerous places in London during the Victorian era. He invited them there for next week. Ernest was surprised his brother had an interest in going there. While Austin thought of it as a good idea. Kate said she wouldn’t go there by any means because it was too dangerous. Thomas saw it as bad idea, but he accepted the invitation. He would not give up on his dream.

A few days later, Ernest and Edwin went to James Danielson’s restaurant, and talked to him. The man showed them the place. It had three floors, and it was very elegant. Ernest said they would think it over, but Edwin told James they would rent the place, that there was no need to keep waiting. James rejoiced. They started making the arrangements to sign a lease agreement. The plan was to prepare the full place to make it an Italian food restaurant, and to hire employees for it, to eventually open the new restaurant’s doors. Ernest told Thomas they would hire him as a waiter, after he was done with the circus.

On Friday, the day before they would go to The Devil’s Acre. Thomas began to feel numb and depressed. He felt a sadness deep down that he could not explain its cause. At one moment, he thought that maybe it was just a bad day, since he was also tired. But this weird sensation persisted all day. That night, he then thought of the life he had. Many would perceive Thomas’s life as privileged and blissful, but he felt it was not enough. He did not know exactly what he wanted, he just wanted something more. He went to bed, but he could not sleep for a long time. It was a very unpleasant situation for him. He finally fell asleep, and woke up the following morning. He had no desire at all to get up, he felt extremely sad. So sad that he told himself “something is wrong”. He grabbed a knife, in case he would need it at The Devil’s Acre. He hid the weapon in his belt.

Thomas went downstairs to have breakfast. His father was already there having a cup of tea. Ernest told the servant to prepare Thomas’s daily sandwich, and told Thomas to sit down. Ernest said he liked Kate as Thomas’s girlfriend. Thomas replied he was not so certain to keep going out with her. Ernest was surprised, and asked what was wrong, and if Thomas had an interest in someone else. He replied negatively. He did not wish to speak about Erin, hiding the truth from his father. Thomas then changed the subject, telling his father if he would like to go to Hyde Park for a walk. Ernest accepted with enthusiasm. And they both headed to the place, soon after they had their respective showers and dressed. They were walking in the park, when suddenly Ernest stopped at The Serpentine Lake. He sat at the shore, and Thomas did the same thing. They both looked at the water.

Ernest: do you want to know why your grandfather had an addiction with alcohol?

Thomas: he was an irresponsible man?

Ernest: quite the contrary, he was very good father, not that of a husband, but he was a good father.

Thomas: then what happened?

Ernest: when he was a child, he and his brother were playing with a pistol. Your grandfather pulled the trigger, thinking the weapon wasn’t loaded, but he was wrong… He was never able to get over the pain of killing his brother, not even as a grown man.

Thomas: someone has told me before that one mistake can ruin your life.

Ernest: regardless of that, I think life is dark. We live in an evil and sad world.

Thomas: you know, I haven’t felt so enthusiastic as of late.

Ernest: what do you feel, son?

Thomas: there’s something dark inside of me, but I don’t know what it is. It’s hard to explain.

Ernest: is it fear? Sadness?

Thomas: it’s something more… Like all the negative feelings combined. But I don’t have a reason to feel like this. It’s very strange.

Ernest: I think I know what you mean.

Thomas: you do?

Ernest: in a way. What you describe… I have felt like that before. Your uncle Edwin too.

Thomas: I hope uncle Edwin doesn’t lead us into despair when we go to The Devil’s Acre tonight.

Ernest: despite the danger, I think it’s good to see how less fortunate people live. It might do us good after all.

Thomas: I don’t know. I might end up killing someone out of fear, to defend myself, I mean.

Ernest: what? Are you armed?

Thomas: no, it was just a thought (he was lying)

Ernest: doesn’t the fact that Uncle Edwin will help you become an actor make you happy?

Thomas: I thought it would, but I already told you how I feel.

When night came, Edwin went to Thomas and Ernest’s home by carriage. He knocked at the door, and the servant opened. Edwin sat at the sophisticated living room to wait for Ernest, Thomas, and Austin. When these three greeted Edwin, they all made their way to The Devil’s Acre, on foot. It was a cold night. The streets of London were silent. A black raven stood over one of the gas lamps that were illuminating the street, Austin said it was a bad omen. Edwin told his nephew not to be superstitious, adding that a Hendicott is supposed to be too educated for such nonsense. It was a long walk. At one moment a beggar asked them for coin. Ernest told the man to get a job. The beggar told them “just wait till you go deeper into the devil’s home, you pricks”. A bit further Ernest said he couldn’t believe they were doing this. Edwin said that as one of England most important families, the Hendicotts had the means to make The Devil’s Acre a better place. That they should show their love for London and for England through charity. Ernest had an angry look on his face, and asked Edwin if he was joking. Suddenly, they heard a creepy scream from a man. They didn’t see what was happening, but they were all so scared that they started running. They ran, and ran, until they reached an alley. They slowed down, and kept advancing. Unfortunately, the alley was a dead end. They turned around, and they saw a group of five beggars approaching them. Thomas drew his knife, while Austin was stunned in fear. Ernest and Edwin said and did nothing. Thomas was about to attack them without hesitation, when a very, very tall man appeared out of the dark. This mysterious tall man attacked the beggars with his bare hands. He kicked one in the chin, punched a second one in the forehead. Then grabbed two of them by their necks with his two hands. He lifted them up, and slammed them to the punishing street. Just one remained. The tall man grabbed him, and lifted the beggar onto his shoulders. Then released him, while this one was in mid-air, the tall man lifted his knee to hit the beggar’s face with a devastating knee-strike. Thomas said in a serious manner “you know how to fight”. The tall man said that life had taught him how to survive, and introduced himself as Roger Pauley. Roger asked what had brought the Governor of the Bank of England and his family to The Devil’s Acre.

Eventually the Hendicotts and Roger ended up drinking at one of the bars of the so dangerous area. The first thing Thomas asked Roger was about his height. Roger said he was 6 feet and 10 inches tall. Ernest asked what did Roger do for a living. Roger answered he was unemployed, but he lived alone, and didn’t need much money to be honest. Edwin said that Roger had saved their life, and offered him a job, but Roger declined, saying he was still doing good for himself. Roger started to talk about politics, and mentioned he was rightist, in spite of his poverty. Thomas said that he admired when a citizen decided to stand up for reason, no matter his disadvantages. Roger told Thomas they two had a lot to talk about. Austin talked about his accomplishment on music. Roger congratulated him, and asked him to sing a song. Austin sang the same song he won the competition with. Later, everyone asked for a second drink. At one moment, a strange man approached their table, and told a fake story for coin. The story was that he was the owner of a modest tools shop. He said the shop was pillaged and destroyed by bandits, that he was left with nothing, and needed money to start the business again. While the man was telling this fake tragedy, Roger whispered in Thomas’s ear. Roger told him to meet at the Big Ben tomorrow at noon. And Thomas accepted. Eventually Ernest and Edwin told the strange man to swallow up his story and to go away. The man left. A few minutes later, a brawl happened at the bar. It was enough for the Hendicotts, and Ernest took the initiative to leave. They said goodbye to Roger, while this one stayed at the bar alone.

The following day at noon, Thomas met with Roger at the place he said he would be. They spent several hours talking till night. At night Roger and Thomas went to Hyde Park, and made a bonfire at the shore of the serpentine.

Thomas: I came here with my father yesterday.

Roger: you seem to have a close bond with your father.

Thomas: I’m not an only child, but yes. We are very close. What about your family?

Roger: that might be a topic for another time.

Thomas: I’m 13, how old are you?

Roger: I’m 37

Thomas: you live alone, but have you been married before?

Roger: no, but I have had many girlfriends.

Roger touched Thomas on the shoulder as a gesture of sympathy.

Roger: you know, I will tell you about my family. When I was younger I lived with my parents, but they kicked me out of the house. A friend I had back then is to blame for that. He was someone I looked up to, someone I trusted. But he took everything from me. I will never be able to take back what I lost.

Thomas: I’m sorry, Roger.

Thomas and Roger remained silent for a time, while they were looking at the stars.

Roger: last night you had a Vodka at the bar, is that your favourite drink?

Thomas: yes, drinking Vodka always makes me happy. For a short time at least.

Roger: would you like to come to my flat? My place is small, but we can still have Vodkas and make merry.

Thomas: sure, why not?

Thomas returned to The Devil’s Acre alongside Roger, but this time to his new friend’s home. They sat at the living room, and each of them drank three Vodkas. Roger was very resistant to alcohol because he was a big man. But Thomas got drunk. Roger told Thomas that trust was a precious thing, and that all that Thomas needed to do was to trust him. Roger then told Thomas that he had something to show him. And invited him to his bedroom. Under the effects of alcohol, Thomas was very happy, happier than normal, and did not realised at first what was happening. Roger told him to lie in the bed, and a naïve Thomas did so…

Roger did something wrong, something that would mark Thomas forever.

The following morning Thomas woke up at his home with a heavy hangover. When he made it downstairs his parents were furious. They said that the servants found him in the home’s front yard. Thomas felt so faint that he could not address the situation. Instead, he refused to eat breakfast, and returned to his bed in the first floor. He was desperate, since the hangover was never ending. The hours passed, and Thomas went to the ground floor. He was feeling better. He also remembered what happened the previous night. He was aware that Roger had shown his true colours. Ernest asked about what happened, and Thomas lied. He said he went alone to the first bar they went with Uncle Edwin. Ernest believed him, because Thomas was used to telling the truth. But not this time. Thomas then said he wanted to be alone. He headed to the Big Ben, and started to remember in detail what happened. He cried, and cried a lot. He thought that what he needed was to be with Kate, and to talk to her about it. It was late, but the sun was still over London. He walked to Kate’s home, and knocked on the door. Kate’s mother opened. Eventually he talked to Kate in her bedroom, and told her everything. Kate was in shock. Her reaction was against Thomas. She thought the dark event could’ve been avoided if Thomas would’ve remained sober. She told Thomas to get out of her home, and that she wanted to never see him again. Thomas’s heart was broken. He returned to his house, went straight to his bedroom and tried to sleep. The hours were passing by, and Thomas was suffering insomnia. He didn’t sleep through the night. The next day he kept reflecting, and realised he would never be the same again.

Thomas spent the entire day walking in the streets of London, until nightfall. He went to The Devil’s Acre, and knocked on Roger’s door. This one opened, and showed enthusiasm when he saw Thomas. They were at the living room once again, but this time Thomas was not drinking anything. He asked Roger if this one would allow him to look for a bottle of his liking. Roger smiled, and said yes. Thomas grabbed a bottle from the kitchen countertop. Roger was seated and on his back, as Thomas was coming back from the kitchen. Roger asked how Thomas would enlighten him. Thomas said he had a phrase to get things started. Roger laughed, and said he was all ears. Thomas said “the crimson soaking through”. The boy smashed Roger’s head with the bottle, then drew his knife and stabbed the man in the chest. Roger was dying, but had something to say.

Roger: Thomas (agonizing sigh) Thomas. Find and kill Jeremy Pestock. I was never able to get back at him.

Roger died, and Thomas kept stabbing him in different parts of the body, until he had his fill.

Thomas left the place, and headed to a brothel in the same dangerous neighbourhood. He had a session with a prostitute, and then killed her with his weapon. Then he approached a wall and wrote with the victim’s gore “Man of Blood”.