Since 20th May 2015 I have been on the lookout for DI Lyle fan fiction for Alternate Voices, a charity anthology to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity close to my heart.
It has been a difficult decision because the six contributors have done an excellent job of remaining true to my characters.
As promised here is the story which I consider to be the best. Congratulations to Caroline Lee. I hope you enjoy Caroline’s story Angels & Demons. You will also be able to read about Caroline’s reasons for writing the story and the research she did into a somewhat bizarre form of murder. Please feel free to share, tweet and like this post.
Angels & Demons
by
Caroline Lee
My story is dedicated to my husband, Dave and my children Amy, Cara and Alex. Thank you for being patient while I worked on this story and I would like to think Amy and Cara for reading it and giving their opinion and Dave for his thorough read through and edit.
Good Friday April 10th 1998
Ashbeck Playing Fields - Aldervale Fair
We arrived at the fair at 7pm and it was busy. It was lovely to see so many people, young and old, enjoying themselves. A welcome change to see so much happiness and joy rather than the darker side of Ashbeck that I see when I investigate. We were waiting by the entrance. I smiled down at Jasmine, then leaned over to kiss Jayseera.
My son James and his boyfriend Thomas joined us and I smiled as they chatted freely, holding hands. With time their relationship only grew stronger and we had become good friends with Barry and Sylvia Fox. I considered them extended family. The fair was Jasmine’s idea. Her 7th birthday had been a few weeks ago and the celebration was delayed a couple of times due to work. Barry and Sylvia joined us once they had parked their car.
“Well, let’s go have fun.” I suggested.
Jasmine pulled us towards the rides. I was impressed at the size of the fair. These playing fields were big and, apart from the caravans to the rear, it was filled with rides and stalls. It was all in good condition and the mess was minimal.
This was the first time that it was being hosted in Ashbeck, usually it was held in Maidenvale, 15 miles out towards Reading. The venue there had been redeveloped into a new housing estate. Ashbeck was one of a few alternatives considered and I know the local councillors fought hard to bring it here to boost local business. The only opposition was the fear of inviting a travelling community into the area, but the owner promised they were professional. This was the last day and there had been no reported problems.
James and Thomas went to enjoy the bigger rides, Barry and Sylvia went to the game stalls. I enjoyed time with my wife and daughter. We watched Jasmine enjoy some rides. Jayseera went on a couple of the bigger ones with her, taking pity on my long legs. The last ride before dinner was the ghost train and Jasmine insisted I came too. Jayseera and Jasmine sat in the car in front and I squeezed in the one behind. Jayseera laughed as she saw how cramped I looked. It was impossible to find a comfortable angle for my legs.
The first part of the ride was what I expected. Spooky noises, draped fabrics positioned to brush against our faces as we passed. Dangling spiders and random gusts of air. Jasmine giggled nervously. Then things took a darker turn. Arms and Legs hung from the roof and then we passed a number of grotesque and disfigured people in different outfits. It was very distasteful. Jasmine started to cry. Jayseera held her close and I leaned forward as best I could to place my hand on her shoulder.
“It’s okay, darling.” I said softly.
Jayseera rushed Jasmine off the ride to comfort her. I went to speak the young man at the entrance. He looked bored. I was so angry, but tried to reign it in, I didn’t want to cause a scene.
“Excuse me.” I shouted.
“OK mate?” He replied, moving closer.
“Shouldn't there be a lower age limit on this ride? My 7 year old daughter is in tears. I’m sure adults and older kids enjoy this, but it’s just too much for younger children.”
“Err, sorry sir. I just take the money and let people on. If you have a problem take it up with Adam Aldervale, he runs the fair. I'm sorry your daughter didn't like it.” The young man hurried away.
I wanted find this Adam, but I looked over at Jasmine and her face was puffy from the crying, she held her hands out to me. I scooped her up, giving her a big cuddle. Jayseera smiled and put her around my waist. She knew me well. She was trying to calm me down.
“Have it out with them later. Lets go have dinner. Give Jasmine something else to think about.” she whispered in my ear.
I nodded. She was right.
We joined the others outside the large marquee restaurant. My heart sank when I spotted the name. ‘House Of Wax Diner’ The sign promised a 'feast for our eyes and our stomach' and a second ominous sign said ‘Enter If You Dare’.
“I hope it’s not like the ghost train,” I groaned.
“Let’s hope so,” she agreed.
James and Thomas were chatting to Jasmine, whatever they were saying had her laughing. No trace of her tears. I felt better. Sylvia and Barry both had some little treats for her too. It seems they had done well on the game stalls. Jasmine was now holding an over-sized teddy.
I had relaxed and was taken by surprise when a hand appeared. It belonged to an older lady in loose floaty clothing. Her hair covered by a red scarf, her neck covered in thick chains . The wrinkled skin on her hand looked odd against the bright red painted nails, they were digging In to my arm. Her grip tight.
“Can I help?” I asked calmly.
“You are not alone.” I turned to look at the others.
“Yes, I’m here with family,” I replied.
She loosened her grip, but leaned closer.
“Not them. Those you do not see. You have two very strong and opposing auras. Light and dark. Like angels and demons they forever battle for your soul.”
I felt uncomfortable. I didn’t want to be rude, but wouldn't have Jasmine upset again tonight. I adjusted till my back was to Jasmine, blocking out my exchange.
“Forgive me if I seem rude, miss...?”
“Madam Ezra.”
“Fine. Madam Ezra, I am here with my family. My daughter has just calmed down from an earlier incident. I am sure that you mean well, but this isn’t the time or place. Please leave me alone.”
Madam Ezra stared at me for a moment, then leaned to the side to look at Jasmine. She kept her face relaxed and smiled warmly. Then she turned back to me and her expression hardened.
“Very well, Frank. I will go, but we must talk. Take my card. You will be in touch.”
I took the card and tucked it into my pocket. She hurried away. I jumped as Jayseera put her arm around my waist.
“Sorry,” she chuckled.
“It’s OK. That was very strange and…” I frowned, that woman bothered me. “… she called me Frank!”
Jayseera frowned. She searched the crowd for Madam Ezra, but she had disappeared.
“She works here, Frank. She probably heard your name. I wouldn’t be surprised if she is out there, trying it on someone else. Probably well rehearsed.”
That sounded plausible. I felt a little foolish.
“Don’t tell me you believed any of that fortune telling crap, dad.” James teased.
“Wonder what colour our aura is James, bet it's pink!” Thomas joined in.
He and Thomas were laughing and Jasmine joined in too. I felt much better as the mood had lightened.
“Table for Lyle and Fox!” yelled the waitress.
Inside I spotted several waxworks, some were made up to look like monsters, vampires, ghosts, witches and the like, they weren’t too bad. Others looked like every day people. They were all quite creepy. I kept a close eye on Jasmine, but she seemed fine. Too busy having fun with James and Thomas. Still, we sat her so she didn’t have to look at too many of them.
Dinner was pleasant. The food wasn’t special, but the service was efficient and of course the company around the table was good. We had all enjoyed light conversation and some laughter. The place was almost empty and we were just finishing our desserts when a group of teenagers barged in demanding a table. The waitress was trying to tell them service had ended, but they were being rude. I tried to be patient, but the poor girl looked harassed.
“Be right back. Just need a quiet word.” I said
Jayseera nodded and I crossed the room to help the waitress.
“Is there a problem?”
One of the teenagers looked up at me, clearly surprised by my height. He turned to his friends then folded his arms. He was playing the tough guy.
“Why don’t you mind your own business grandpa!” he said, laughing at his own joke. His friends joined in laughing too.
I stepped forward and smiled as the boy stepped back.
“That’s Detective Inspector Grandpa. I am off duty and spending time with my family. I could call for some uniformed officers to remove you.”
The young lad hesitated, he clearly didn’t know what to do next. He believed me, but didn’t want to back down in front of his friends.
“Yeah right. You are too old to be a cop!”
I heard chairs move behind me, then James and Thomas appeared by my side.
“We are all police officers and you should mind your manners.” Thomas snapped, his arms folded in front of him.
The teenagers went quiet and hurried towards the exit. It was all going well until two of the boys pushed over one of the waxworks. One of the arms broke off with a sickening crunch.
James and Thomas hurried after them. I could hear them shouting for the teens to stop, but they soon returned saying they were long gone. The waitress was very distressed, Jayseera and Sylvia were trying to calm her down. Jasmine sat at the table clinging to her teddy. I went over to help Barry put the waxwork back upright. He was holding the arm that had broken off. I paused to watch him for a moment, I had seen this level of concentration before, usually when our pathologist, Dr Bradley, was examining a body.
“Barry…?” I asked.
He turned to look at me, his face pale.
“I think our pleasant evening is over, Frank.”
He held the arm towards me, so I could see the part that had detached, I didn’t have any medical training, but I had seen enough dead bodies that even I could recognise the muscle and bone in the centre. The skin looked odd, it cracked like plastic.
My evening with my family and friends was definitely over, I was no longer Frank. I was DI Lyle.
Jayseera hadn’t lost the skills she had when she was a police officer. She had been quietly observing. She came over to say that she and Sylvia were taking Jasmine home. I gave Jasmine a big cuddle and told her I’d see her in the morning, but I feared that this was going to be a long night. I asked the waitress to bring the manager and sent James and Thomas to try and track down Adam Aldervale, the fair owner. Barry was circling the room, looking at the other waxworks.
The waitress returned, followed by a large man who was sweating profusely. He wasn’t happy.
“Sir, I am DI Frank Lyle.” I showed him my badge, which I always carried in my pocket, “...and I am afraid this restaurant is now a crime scene.”
The man went pale and started to panic.
“Adam won’t be happy, this is one of the bigger money earners…” The man spoke in a rushed voice.
“I take it you mean Adam Aldervale.” I asked.
The man simply nodded and slumped on a nearby seat, mopping his brow. I heard James and Thomas return with a young man in an expensive suit, he looked more like a lawyer or a business man.
“I’m Adam Aldervale, what’s going on?”
“DI Frank Lyle. Where did you get these waxworks from?”
“They were all created or acquired by Helios Manzano. He is no longer with us, he died almost 10 years ago. The rest are by his son, Vigo.”
“Was this one a recent acquisition?” I asked pointing to the body.
“That is one of the more recent ones, but most of them have been part of the fair for as long as I remember. Helios was really good at his special effects and models. He excelled at scary and disfigured ones. Vigo is the true master though, the ones that look more human freak people out more. They did all of the ones in here as well as the ghost train,” Adam replied.
“Can I show you something, Adam, to see if you can grasp the situation?”
I led Adam over to the body and watched as he looked it over, he seemed upset.
“Vigo puts so much effort into his work, he’ll be gutted. I take it you didn’t catch the teenagers responsible.”
I shook my head and picked up the arm. I held it up to Adam, I watched him as he frowned then looked closer at the break.
“I had no idea how much detail he added, this is amazing.”
Barry came over to join us.
“Amazing isn’t the word that I would use. More like grotesque. This looks so realistic, because it is. This and I suspect several others in this room are genuine human remains.”
Adam’s face drained of colour and his knees buckled, I managed to catch him before he went down, I gently led him to a chair. I heard James speaking to the waitress in a hushed tone and moments later a glass of water was brought over to Adam.
“Seriously?!” he asked.
Barry placed his hand on Adam’s shoulder and gave it a small squeeze.
“I’m afraid so. Tests will be needed, but from what I can tell most of the bodies in this room are real, their skin is missing and replaced with plastic. You mentioned more in the ghost train?”
“Yeah. I haven’t inspected for a while, but I heard from one of the lads that someone was complaining this evening that we should have a lower age limit displayed after their daughter was scared.”
“Ah! That was me. It’s good to know that you got the feedback.” I said
Barry looked around the room then looked at me, he looked sad.
“Are you quite sure, Barry?”
“As sure as I can be. There have been different methods used, some quite sophisticated, but I am certain that most of these are human remains. I’ve checked under some of the clothing and the plastic coating on the arms and faces are missing under. I've seen it before, but only in medical journals. You need the specialists, but I’ve seen enough dead bodies and medical cadavers to know what I am seeing. If I am right and some of these were done using the plastination technique then whoever did this had to have somewhere private where they could work. This takes specialised equipment and a long time to produce.”
It was 9.45pm, the fair was due to close down at 10pm, I didn’t want to cause any unnecessary panic. Adam looked quite pale.
“Adam, I’m going to call the station and get help. If we are right and there are several bodies here, it will involve a major crime unit. They will expect co-operation from everyone. I need you to get everyone to wind the fair down, then I need to gather everyone together at the centre. More importantly I need to speak to Vigo, but I am a little worried that he might try to run away if we don’t handle this well. DC Lyle and DS Fox will accompany you.” I said, pointing to James and Thomas.
I watched as Adam took some deep calming breaths and tried to compose himself. He rose to his feet and headed towards the door, closely followed by James and Thomas.
“… and you are sure? I mean, Vigo, and I grew up together. Sure, he was quiet, a bit of a loner, but I …” Adam stopped talking and shook his head. He didn’t give me the chance to respond, he simply hurried away.
I called DCI Lawson at home, he wasn’t too happy about being disturbed, but once I explained the situation, he thanked me for keeping him informed. He advised he would send me plenty of officers. He asked me to get a clearer picture and secure the crime scenes. He would also contact Reading and organise for a major crimes team to come out. We both knew that if this was as big as suspected then it would be a major investigation.
There was nothing more I could do in here. Barry wanted to wait for the crime scene investigators, and I asked the waitress and manager to stay with him until a uniformed officer arrived. I went to help with the search for Vigo.
The fair was almost empty now. All the rides had stopped operating and the stall holders had put barriers up. The few remaining stragglers were heading to the exit. Adam, James and Thomas were getting everyone to gather near the centre. I spotted Madam Ezra in the crowd, she was staring at me, she motioned to her shoulders with each hand and then pointed at me, bringing me back to our early conversation. I looked away.
She clearly had something to say and soon appeared by my side.
“I mean you no harm, Frank. I know that you struggle with what I told you. Be warned. Your dark spirit is stronger here. Your light spirit is doing his best to stay strong. You can help him and help yourself. Be careful and if you value your life, don’t follow the black rabbit.”
I had no idea how to respond to that, I needed to concentrate on the investigation. She turned away and I chose to ignore her for the time being, there was much to be done.
Adam, James and Thomas had gathered everyone. They couldn’t find Vigo, but this didn’t surprise me. Backup had arrived and I sent one uniformed officer to stay with Barry, two to guard the ghost train, and I asked the rest to help gather statement with James and Thomas. We would need to record everything we could before the major crimes unit arrived and took over.
A Crime Scene Investigation unit had also arrived to examine the first body and to assess the others. In the circumstances I asked Barry to help. He seemed to be profoundly affected by this situation. They would work in the restaurant first and then the ghost train.
Adam showed me and two other uniformed officers to Vigo’s caravan, he had keys to all the caravans, but he didn’t need it. The door was wide open.
“Vigo Manzano!” I yelled. There was no response.
We approached cautiously. It was lit up inside, I think we had narrowly missed him. The interior appeared normal enough, there wasn’t much in the way of fixtures and fittings. It was very tidy. The only thing out of place was the backpack on the table. It was still open. Peaking inside I could see two big heavy books and some scraps of paper. I asked the uniformed officers to place it in an evidence bag and to guard the caravan. I walked with Adam back to the centre. A few times I thought I heard something nearby, but I never saw anything.
“How's it going?” I asked James and Thomas.
“No-one had ever suspected anything. Plenty of them have said Vigo was a loner or a bit strange, but he kept to himself,” Thomas replied.
“Just write it all down. Major crimes will interview everyone themselves, but everything we get now could help them. Be vigilant. It is possible that he is still nearby.”
Barry joined us wearing a white overall. He looked drained.
“That bad?”
“Yes Frank. There are several bodies. The Crime Scene investigators agree with me, it’s going to be a hard investigation. It depends on the technique used whether we’ll find much in the way of DNA. In the restaurant the ones out in the open were done using sophisticated methods, but some of them in the ghost train are much cruder. At least two are a form of human taxidermy, that means that the skin is there, but no body, the opposite method of those in the restaurant. There is a real distinct odour in there. I’ve seen many bodies over the years, but I don’t mind admitting this has unsettled me.”
I listened intently to Barry and felt a knot tighten in my stomach.
“I’m not sure how this had gone unnoticed for so long!” His voice was raised, he stared at Adam.
Adam flushed and shook his head wildly.
“You think that I knew about this? Are you serious?! This fair is my life. My father ran it before me, my grandfather before that. The old days it was simpler. In recent years there is more red tape. I have to apply for permits, keep records for tax, ensure I am meeting health and safety measures. I even have to ensure the prizes are safe, but cheap enough to ensure we make money. I have to make sure there are enough people to man the rides and the stalls and keeping an eye out for trouble. Even though many of my generation are starting to tire of the travelling life and prefer to live somewhere more permanent. We have 25 rides and several stalls. It’s not an easy job. I don’t have time to inspect every ride…” his voice trialled off, but he was clearly agitated. Barry had certainly touched a nerve.
I watched as this young man flapped for a while, then reigned in his temper. He took a few deep breaths and continued.
“… Look. I grew up around Helios, he was a close friend of my father. I can’t say I paid him much attention. I never liked his models, but tended to stay clear. Usually they were completely covered with outfits and masks, so for all I know it could have been mannequins under there. I do remember him arguing with my dad about smells, but he said it was part of the effect and in a ghost train, who could argue, people go on that ride to be scared. It’s only been the past 3 or 4 years that Vigo has really started to push with what I thought were different modelling techniques that we could have more of them out in the open. If I had ever suspected I would have reported it myself. This is my livelihood!”
I felt Barry shift beside me, he looked a little flushed.
“I didn’t mean to upset you, Mr Aldervale. I think we are all a little shook up right now,” Barry said softly.
“Let’s all calm down. I think this is going to be a very complex investigation. If these bodies vary widely in ages, then tracing who they could be will be very hard, especially as the nature of your fair is to travel around the country. I don’t suppose you keep records?”
Adam flashed me a look of utter contempt.
“I don’t wear this suit to just look the part. Of course I keep records, this isn't just a way of life. It is also a business. The last 5 years records have been computerised. Earlier records are in ledger books. A tradition both my father and grandfather enjoyed. I have photo albums, journals and ledger books covering over 100 years.”
I held my hands up in mock surrender. I hadn’t meant to offend him.
“That would be most helpful. Please give all you can to DS Fox.”
Adam and Thomas started to talk freely and I turned back to Barry.
“Are you okay, Barry. I would understand If you want to go home.”
“I’d rather see this through, the thought of all those people, spending years as things for people to stare at. To think we only know because a bunch of rowdy teenagers knocked one over. So many lost souls. I will say one thing, some of the methods I suspect of being used couldn’t have been done in a small confined space like a caravan. The machinery and time it would take means it would have needed to be somewhere large and private.” Barry said.
Adam looked over and I encouraged him to speak.
“We don’t travel all year round. We have at least three months break each year, usually in the late autumn/winter months. Some of us travel together or stay at a static park, others have homes and warehouses and find other work for those months. I am pretty sure Helios used to do some occasional work designing set pieces for theatres. I will need to check my records but I am sure he has a warehouse in Reading.”
Barry returned to help in the ghost train. I told him I would join him after updating DCI Lawson. He explained that a major crime team from Reading would be here shortly and that they’d ask for me. I joked that when this was all over I could even look forward to a cup of coffee at the station and we both knew how horrid that stuff was.
Something caught my eye, I thought I saw someone between a stall next to the Waltzer. I went to investigate, but found nothing, I turned to head back when something hard hit me on the back of the head. My head throbbed and my vision blurred, the world began to spin. I heard heavy, ragged breathing and tried to turn towards it. That movement was a mistake. I felt my body falling and the world went black.
~ ~ ~
My head hurt. It felt damp at the back, I tried to pull my hand up to feel, but it wouldn’t move. I could hear something nearby. A strange smell filled my nostrils and I felt nauseous. I forced my eyes open. The lighting was low and above me were wooden slats, light filtering through the small gaps. I tried to speak, but something thick and rough filled my mouth. I heard noise again to my right and turned my head to look, I regretted it instantly. Sharp pain radiated around my head and my vision blurred, once it cleared I could see the shape of a person, he wore a light vest that was grubby. His skin also looked dirty. Even in this light I could see a tattoo on his right shoulder blade. My mind replayed the words of Madam Ezra as I realised that it was a black rabbit.
I was unable to stifle the cough that rose up as I tried to breathe. The rough material in my mouth pressed against the back of my throat and aggravated it. He turned around, his eyes were wild. This must be Vigo.
“Ah! You are awake! You have ruined everything and you must pay and I want you to experience everything.” he snapped.
He stepped closer, I tried to move, but I was pinned down. My shoulders hurt and my arms were pinned behind me and I could feel something pressing against my throat. I noticed he had something long and heavy in his hand. When he got closer I saw it was a hammer. I tried to yell, but that aggravated my throat.
“DI LYLE!… DAD!… FRANK!…” I heard several voices nearby. Vigo, moved out of my eye line. I tried again to move, but it was useless. He soon returned and I stilled, exhausted by the effort. The voices outside sounded quieter as they moved away from wherever we were.
“It looks like you’ll be my last victim. I’m afraid I won’t be able to preserve you, which is a pity as I have some new equipment. Still I will make sure we have fun. That was the best bit, playing with our victims, causing them as much pain before they were preserved. It helped capture the right look on their face.”
He raised the hammer above my head, I closed my eyes and thought of my family. The smiling faces of Jayseera, Jasmine and James.
“Oh no you don’t!” He kicked at my side, winding me. “Open those eyes!” He shouted.
I opened them and stared directly at him. I flinched as he started to fight with the hammer. His face was contorted with rage. He began to bring it down then kept stopping, like he was fighting with someone else. I heard a crashing noise nearby and then I heard the most welcome voice of James.
“Dad!”
Vigo froze and turned towards James. He started to lunge. My feeling of relief was replaced with fear for my son. I started to struggle again, but I couldn’t free myself and whatever was over my throat pressed tighter. Then I felt an intense pain in my head before the world turned black again.
~ ~ ~
I started to wake up. My head hurt. It no longer felt damp at the back. I put my hand up and this time it responded. My eyes were slow to open, the bright lights hurt. I could hear a beeping noise nearby and turned slowly to see an ECG monitor. I was in a hospital.
I felt someone take my arm and gently place it down, I recognised the perfume, it was Jayseera. She looked tired, her eyes were moist, she had been crying.
“Frank!”
“Hey!” I croaked, my throat was raw.
“We’ve all been so worried. The doctor said there was some swelling on your brain, you’ve slept for a while.”
“How long?” I asked.
“Just over 3 days.”
3 days? It didn't feel that long. It felt like it had happened only moments ago.
“James!” I yelled out.
“Shhhh!” Jayseera soothed, gently patting my arm.
“He's fine. Vigo is in custody. You're safe.”
~ ~ ~
I remained in hospital for a few days. Jasmine visited every day for an hour after school. Everyone kept saying how lucky I was, but I didn’t feel it. I couldn’t sleep without having nightmares. I kept remembering the wild look on Vigo’s face and his struggle with the hammer. He could have killed me so easily. Even James had a strange experience. Vigo had lunged towards him and he had prepared for a fight, but then Vigo acted like he was fighting with someone else. He stopped just short of James and started to roll around the floor. James had acted quickly. He knocked the hammer away and pinned him down until help came.
When I asked how he found me. He said Madam Ezra told him to follow the light. He dismissed it at first, but then saw strange flickers of light on the ground, like a torch shining. He followed it to underneath the Waltzer. That’s where he found me, next to me was a bag filled with several knives. They all had dried blood on and were being used as evidence. I shuddered at the thought of what might have happened.
I spoke with Jayseera about Madam Ezra. How she warned me not to follow the black rabbit and the tattoo on Vigo’s shoulder. We spoke about her saying I had two strong, but opposing spirits. Jayseera explained that Madam Ezra had been visiting the hospital daily to check on me and they had spoken a few times at great length.
After being released from the hospital I was signed off active duty for at least a week. Lawson warned me not to return until I felt up to it and to enjoy the time with my family. I was visited by Garrison, the lead investigator of the major crimes unit assigned to the case. I would be involved, but not in a major way, because my name was listed as one of the victims, albeit unsuccessful. He promised to keep me in the loop. He could tell me so far 22 bodies were confirmed as human and there were partial remains of a further seven. Early indications suggest victims spanned five decades, which is possibly how they got away with it for so long. They found evidence in the warehouse, including equipment, which held a body. They also found journals and photo albums documenting what they had done. Barring two of the more recent bodies, they had broken each body into pieces then preserved each part and reattached it. Adam Aldervale and his family records were helping. The hardest task would be searching missing people records and identifying the victims. Vigo Manzano had been detained in a high security mental institution for assessment.
The story still dominated the newspapers and news channels. They nicknamed it the 'Waxwork Murders Case'. Jasmine was suffering from nightmares and we were considering professional help, but she had improved a little now that I was safe.
~ ~ ~
The day before I was due to return to active duty, Madam Ezra visited. James and Thomas had taken Jasmine to the cinema.
“I’m pleased you are okay, Frank. Your light aura is more dominant today, but the dark will always be there.”
I looked towards Jayseera, she squeezed my hand in encouragement.
“I see you still have your doubts.” she paused till I relaxed a little. “Your light spirit is someone that you cared deeply for. You and he were close friends. He has been with you for many years. He wants you to know it wasn’t your fault and that he will always have your back.”
Jayseera squeezed my hand again.
“Your dark spirit has been with you for less time. Closer to 6 years, he says your fates are intertwined and that he owes you and those close to you. He says he will always be close waiting for the opportunity to cause you pain.”
I felt strange. I had convinced myself that nothing she could say would convince me, but the memory of my close call with that hammer meant my mind was more open. I knew who she meant. There wasn’t a day that went by that I didn’t think of my former partner Sunil Desai and, to some extent, Bob Kenyon. He was one of the worst cases I had ever been involved in before this.
She left soon after, telling me to get in touch whenever I liked. My heart felt heavy. I had spoken to Jayseera before about Sunil, and she told me about the Hindu faith and their belief in reincarnation. She often thought that Sunil was with me.
When James and Thomas returned with Jasmine we enjoyed some quality family time together. Jasmine had clearly enjoyed the film Mouse Trap. Though I got the impression that James and Thomas didn’t enjoy it quite as much.
That night before bed I stood in the bathroom and looked at my reflection. For a moment I could see the smiling face of Sunil and the snarling one of Kenyon. I still couldn’t explain what had happened with that hammer and the black rabbit. On the one hand I had a head injury and was under great stress. On the other it was a soothing thought to think that Sunil was there, keeping an eye on me when I needed it.
I turned away and joined Jayseera in bed. She turned to drape her arm over my chest and snuggled in. That night I slept soundly and for the first time in days I had no nightmares.
In the morning I would return to work refreshed and ready to face whatever came next.
~ The End ~
Author Bio – Caroline Lee
Visit Caroline's website Iwrote
I am 35 years old. I live near Doncaster with my husband, Dave and our three children Amy (9), Cara (8) and Alex (2). I am an avid reader, I like to read all sorts of stories and I have read (and Enjoyed!) all of the DI Lyle series to date. I enjoy being creative including drawing and painting. I am a music podcaster and I do a weekly show that promotes independent music. I also love to write. Crime fiction isn't my usual genre (though I do love reading it!). I really enjoyed this challenge and I look forward to reading all of the entries and feel honoured to be part of it.
I have a few works in progress and regularly take the opportunity to take part in writing challenges. I have a website which I used to showcase my work, but I also use it to review works by other authors and carry out interviews.
Thanks
I would like to thank Juliet B. Madison for having this idea. It's an honour to take part and support a worthy cause. It was nice to be given permission to play with your characters for a while, I hope I did them justice. Thanks to Paul Trembling for answering my query on forensic science. Thanks also go to Alistair Melling for his help regarding the format such a large investigation would take.
Idea behind the story
I wanted to do a story that featured Frank with his family in a social setting, but was mixed with his day job. I set it a few years in the future and liked the idea the idea that the relationship with James and Thomas would be stronger than ever and that would link the Lyle's and Fox's together.
Once I had the idea of a travelling fair, I pictured a few of the scenes and I liked the idea of victims being hidden in plain sight and exposed by a series of events.
The waxwork idea is not an uncommon trope in stories and I chose to reference Plastination, which was developed by Gunther Von Hagens in 1977. Initially it was used with small body parts and organs, but by the early 90's the technique and equipment was developed further allowing the plastination of whole bodies (though this takes a long time!). Whilst the term isn't very well known, people have likely heard of or seen images of the work that Gunther Von Hagens did. He travels the world exhibiting these bodies under the name 'Body Worlds'. In his case these bodies belonged to people who had given their consent, unlike those of Helios and Vigo in the story.
As for Madam Ezra and her suggestion that Frank has Sunil Desai on one shoulder and Bob Kenyon on the other, I leave it up to the reader to decide whether Madam Ezra is correct or not, whether you believe in spirits or not, I can't imagine Frank doesn't think of Sunil most days. Bob Kenyon was someone who would leave a lasting impression and who knows after the events in this story, he may have some company with Vigo.
References
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunther_von_Hagens
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_Worlds
It has been a difficult decision because the six contributors have done an excellent job of remaining true to my characters.
As promised here is the story which I consider to be the best. Congratulations to Caroline Lee. I hope you enjoy Caroline’s story Angels & Demons. You will also be able to read about Caroline’s reasons for writing the story and the research she did into a somewhat bizarre form of murder. Please feel free to share, tweet and like this post.
Angels & Demons
by
Caroline Lee
My story is dedicated to my husband, Dave and my children Amy, Cara and Alex. Thank you for being patient while I worked on this story and I would like to think Amy and Cara for reading it and giving their opinion and Dave for his thorough read through and edit.
Good Friday April 10th 1998
Ashbeck Playing Fields - Aldervale Fair
We arrived at the fair at 7pm and it was busy. It was lovely to see so many people, young and old, enjoying themselves. A welcome change to see so much happiness and joy rather than the darker side of Ashbeck that I see when I investigate. We were waiting by the entrance. I smiled down at Jasmine, then leaned over to kiss Jayseera.
My son James and his boyfriend Thomas joined us and I smiled as they chatted freely, holding hands. With time their relationship only grew stronger and we had become good friends with Barry and Sylvia Fox. I considered them extended family. The fair was Jasmine’s idea. Her 7th birthday had been a few weeks ago and the celebration was delayed a couple of times due to work. Barry and Sylvia joined us once they had parked their car.
“Well, let’s go have fun.” I suggested.
Jasmine pulled us towards the rides. I was impressed at the size of the fair. These playing fields were big and, apart from the caravans to the rear, it was filled with rides and stalls. It was all in good condition and the mess was minimal.
This was the first time that it was being hosted in Ashbeck, usually it was held in Maidenvale, 15 miles out towards Reading. The venue there had been redeveloped into a new housing estate. Ashbeck was one of a few alternatives considered and I know the local councillors fought hard to bring it here to boost local business. The only opposition was the fear of inviting a travelling community into the area, but the owner promised they were professional. This was the last day and there had been no reported problems.
James and Thomas went to enjoy the bigger rides, Barry and Sylvia went to the game stalls. I enjoyed time with my wife and daughter. We watched Jasmine enjoy some rides. Jayseera went on a couple of the bigger ones with her, taking pity on my long legs. The last ride before dinner was the ghost train and Jasmine insisted I came too. Jayseera and Jasmine sat in the car in front and I squeezed in the one behind. Jayseera laughed as she saw how cramped I looked. It was impossible to find a comfortable angle for my legs.
The first part of the ride was what I expected. Spooky noises, draped fabrics positioned to brush against our faces as we passed. Dangling spiders and random gusts of air. Jasmine giggled nervously. Then things took a darker turn. Arms and Legs hung from the roof and then we passed a number of grotesque and disfigured people in different outfits. It was very distasteful. Jasmine started to cry. Jayseera held her close and I leaned forward as best I could to place my hand on her shoulder.
“It’s okay, darling.” I said softly.
Jayseera rushed Jasmine off the ride to comfort her. I went to speak the young man at the entrance. He looked bored. I was so angry, but tried to reign it in, I didn’t want to cause a scene.
“Excuse me.” I shouted.
“OK mate?” He replied, moving closer.
“Shouldn't there be a lower age limit on this ride? My 7 year old daughter is in tears. I’m sure adults and older kids enjoy this, but it’s just too much for younger children.”
“Err, sorry sir. I just take the money and let people on. If you have a problem take it up with Adam Aldervale, he runs the fair. I'm sorry your daughter didn't like it.” The young man hurried away.
I wanted find this Adam, but I looked over at Jasmine and her face was puffy from the crying, she held her hands out to me. I scooped her up, giving her a big cuddle. Jayseera smiled and put her around my waist. She knew me well. She was trying to calm me down.
“Have it out with them later. Lets go have dinner. Give Jasmine something else to think about.” she whispered in my ear.
I nodded. She was right.
We joined the others outside the large marquee restaurant. My heart sank when I spotted the name. ‘House Of Wax Diner’ The sign promised a 'feast for our eyes and our stomach' and a second ominous sign said ‘Enter If You Dare’.
“I hope it’s not like the ghost train,” I groaned.
“Let’s hope so,” she agreed.
James and Thomas were chatting to Jasmine, whatever they were saying had her laughing. No trace of her tears. I felt better. Sylvia and Barry both had some little treats for her too. It seems they had done well on the game stalls. Jasmine was now holding an over-sized teddy.
I had relaxed and was taken by surprise when a hand appeared. It belonged to an older lady in loose floaty clothing. Her hair covered by a red scarf, her neck covered in thick chains . The wrinkled skin on her hand looked odd against the bright red painted nails, they were digging In to my arm. Her grip tight.
“Can I help?” I asked calmly.
“You are not alone.” I turned to look at the others.
“Yes, I’m here with family,” I replied.
She loosened her grip, but leaned closer.
“Not them. Those you do not see. You have two very strong and opposing auras. Light and dark. Like angels and demons they forever battle for your soul.”
I felt uncomfortable. I didn’t want to be rude, but wouldn't have Jasmine upset again tonight. I adjusted till my back was to Jasmine, blocking out my exchange.
“Forgive me if I seem rude, miss...?”
“Madam Ezra.”
“Fine. Madam Ezra, I am here with my family. My daughter has just calmed down from an earlier incident. I am sure that you mean well, but this isn’t the time or place. Please leave me alone.”
Madam Ezra stared at me for a moment, then leaned to the side to look at Jasmine. She kept her face relaxed and smiled warmly. Then she turned back to me and her expression hardened.
“Very well, Frank. I will go, but we must talk. Take my card. You will be in touch.”
I took the card and tucked it into my pocket. She hurried away. I jumped as Jayseera put her arm around my waist.
“Sorry,” she chuckled.
“It’s OK. That was very strange and…” I frowned, that woman bothered me. “… she called me Frank!”
Jayseera frowned. She searched the crowd for Madam Ezra, but she had disappeared.
“She works here, Frank. She probably heard your name. I wouldn’t be surprised if she is out there, trying it on someone else. Probably well rehearsed.”
That sounded plausible. I felt a little foolish.
“Don’t tell me you believed any of that fortune telling crap, dad.” James teased.
“Wonder what colour our aura is James, bet it's pink!” Thomas joined in.
He and Thomas were laughing and Jasmine joined in too. I felt much better as the mood had lightened.
“Table for Lyle and Fox!” yelled the waitress.
Inside I spotted several waxworks, some were made up to look like monsters, vampires, ghosts, witches and the like, they weren’t too bad. Others looked like every day people. They were all quite creepy. I kept a close eye on Jasmine, but she seemed fine. Too busy having fun with James and Thomas. Still, we sat her so she didn’t have to look at too many of them.
Dinner was pleasant. The food wasn’t special, but the service was efficient and of course the company around the table was good. We had all enjoyed light conversation and some laughter. The place was almost empty and we were just finishing our desserts when a group of teenagers barged in demanding a table. The waitress was trying to tell them service had ended, but they were being rude. I tried to be patient, but the poor girl looked harassed.
“Be right back. Just need a quiet word.” I said
Jayseera nodded and I crossed the room to help the waitress.
“Is there a problem?”
One of the teenagers looked up at me, clearly surprised by my height. He turned to his friends then folded his arms. He was playing the tough guy.
“Why don’t you mind your own business grandpa!” he said, laughing at his own joke. His friends joined in laughing too.
I stepped forward and smiled as the boy stepped back.
“That’s Detective Inspector Grandpa. I am off duty and spending time with my family. I could call for some uniformed officers to remove you.”
The young lad hesitated, he clearly didn’t know what to do next. He believed me, but didn’t want to back down in front of his friends.
“Yeah right. You are too old to be a cop!”
I heard chairs move behind me, then James and Thomas appeared by my side.
“We are all police officers and you should mind your manners.” Thomas snapped, his arms folded in front of him.
The teenagers went quiet and hurried towards the exit. It was all going well until two of the boys pushed over one of the waxworks. One of the arms broke off with a sickening crunch.
James and Thomas hurried after them. I could hear them shouting for the teens to stop, but they soon returned saying they were long gone. The waitress was very distressed, Jayseera and Sylvia were trying to calm her down. Jasmine sat at the table clinging to her teddy. I went over to help Barry put the waxwork back upright. He was holding the arm that had broken off. I paused to watch him for a moment, I had seen this level of concentration before, usually when our pathologist, Dr Bradley, was examining a body.
“Barry…?” I asked.
He turned to look at me, his face pale.
“I think our pleasant evening is over, Frank.”
He held the arm towards me, so I could see the part that had detached, I didn’t have any medical training, but I had seen enough dead bodies that even I could recognise the muscle and bone in the centre. The skin looked odd, it cracked like plastic.
My evening with my family and friends was definitely over, I was no longer Frank. I was DI Lyle.
Jayseera hadn’t lost the skills she had when she was a police officer. She had been quietly observing. She came over to say that she and Sylvia were taking Jasmine home. I gave Jasmine a big cuddle and told her I’d see her in the morning, but I feared that this was going to be a long night. I asked the waitress to bring the manager and sent James and Thomas to try and track down Adam Aldervale, the fair owner. Barry was circling the room, looking at the other waxworks.
The waitress returned, followed by a large man who was sweating profusely. He wasn’t happy.
“Sir, I am DI Frank Lyle.” I showed him my badge, which I always carried in my pocket, “...and I am afraid this restaurant is now a crime scene.”
The man went pale and started to panic.
“Adam won’t be happy, this is one of the bigger money earners…” The man spoke in a rushed voice.
“I take it you mean Adam Aldervale.” I asked.
The man simply nodded and slumped on a nearby seat, mopping his brow. I heard James and Thomas return with a young man in an expensive suit, he looked more like a lawyer or a business man.
“I’m Adam Aldervale, what’s going on?”
“DI Frank Lyle. Where did you get these waxworks from?”
“They were all created or acquired by Helios Manzano. He is no longer with us, he died almost 10 years ago. The rest are by his son, Vigo.”
“Was this one a recent acquisition?” I asked pointing to the body.
“That is one of the more recent ones, but most of them have been part of the fair for as long as I remember. Helios was really good at his special effects and models. He excelled at scary and disfigured ones. Vigo is the true master though, the ones that look more human freak people out more. They did all of the ones in here as well as the ghost train,” Adam replied.
“Can I show you something, Adam, to see if you can grasp the situation?”
I led Adam over to the body and watched as he looked it over, he seemed upset.
“Vigo puts so much effort into his work, he’ll be gutted. I take it you didn’t catch the teenagers responsible.”
I shook my head and picked up the arm. I held it up to Adam, I watched him as he frowned then looked closer at the break.
“I had no idea how much detail he added, this is amazing.”
Barry came over to join us.
“Amazing isn’t the word that I would use. More like grotesque. This looks so realistic, because it is. This and I suspect several others in this room are genuine human remains.”
Adam’s face drained of colour and his knees buckled, I managed to catch him before he went down, I gently led him to a chair. I heard James speaking to the waitress in a hushed tone and moments later a glass of water was brought over to Adam.
“Seriously?!” he asked.
Barry placed his hand on Adam’s shoulder and gave it a small squeeze.
“I’m afraid so. Tests will be needed, but from what I can tell most of the bodies in this room are real, their skin is missing and replaced with plastic. You mentioned more in the ghost train?”
“Yeah. I haven’t inspected for a while, but I heard from one of the lads that someone was complaining this evening that we should have a lower age limit displayed after their daughter was scared.”
“Ah! That was me. It’s good to know that you got the feedback.” I said
Barry looked around the room then looked at me, he looked sad.
“Are you quite sure, Barry?”
“As sure as I can be. There have been different methods used, some quite sophisticated, but I am certain that most of these are human remains. I’ve checked under some of the clothing and the plastic coating on the arms and faces are missing under. I've seen it before, but only in medical journals. You need the specialists, but I’ve seen enough dead bodies and medical cadavers to know what I am seeing. If I am right and some of these were done using the plastination technique then whoever did this had to have somewhere private where they could work. This takes specialised equipment and a long time to produce.”
It was 9.45pm, the fair was due to close down at 10pm, I didn’t want to cause any unnecessary panic. Adam looked quite pale.
“Adam, I’m going to call the station and get help. If we are right and there are several bodies here, it will involve a major crime unit. They will expect co-operation from everyone. I need you to get everyone to wind the fair down, then I need to gather everyone together at the centre. More importantly I need to speak to Vigo, but I am a little worried that he might try to run away if we don’t handle this well. DC Lyle and DS Fox will accompany you.” I said, pointing to James and Thomas.
I watched as Adam took some deep calming breaths and tried to compose himself. He rose to his feet and headed towards the door, closely followed by James and Thomas.
“… and you are sure? I mean, Vigo, and I grew up together. Sure, he was quiet, a bit of a loner, but I …” Adam stopped talking and shook his head. He didn’t give me the chance to respond, he simply hurried away.
I called DCI Lawson at home, he wasn’t too happy about being disturbed, but once I explained the situation, he thanked me for keeping him informed. He advised he would send me plenty of officers. He asked me to get a clearer picture and secure the crime scenes. He would also contact Reading and organise for a major crimes team to come out. We both knew that if this was as big as suspected then it would be a major investigation.
There was nothing more I could do in here. Barry wanted to wait for the crime scene investigators, and I asked the waitress and manager to stay with him until a uniformed officer arrived. I went to help with the search for Vigo.
The fair was almost empty now. All the rides had stopped operating and the stall holders had put barriers up. The few remaining stragglers were heading to the exit. Adam, James and Thomas were getting everyone to gather near the centre. I spotted Madam Ezra in the crowd, she was staring at me, she motioned to her shoulders with each hand and then pointed at me, bringing me back to our early conversation. I looked away.
She clearly had something to say and soon appeared by my side.
“I mean you no harm, Frank. I know that you struggle with what I told you. Be warned. Your dark spirit is stronger here. Your light spirit is doing his best to stay strong. You can help him and help yourself. Be careful and if you value your life, don’t follow the black rabbit.”
I had no idea how to respond to that, I needed to concentrate on the investigation. She turned away and I chose to ignore her for the time being, there was much to be done.
Adam, James and Thomas had gathered everyone. They couldn’t find Vigo, but this didn’t surprise me. Backup had arrived and I sent one uniformed officer to stay with Barry, two to guard the ghost train, and I asked the rest to help gather statement with James and Thomas. We would need to record everything we could before the major crimes unit arrived and took over.
A Crime Scene Investigation unit had also arrived to examine the first body and to assess the others. In the circumstances I asked Barry to help. He seemed to be profoundly affected by this situation. They would work in the restaurant first and then the ghost train.
Adam showed me and two other uniformed officers to Vigo’s caravan, he had keys to all the caravans, but he didn’t need it. The door was wide open.
“Vigo Manzano!” I yelled. There was no response.
We approached cautiously. It was lit up inside, I think we had narrowly missed him. The interior appeared normal enough, there wasn’t much in the way of fixtures and fittings. It was very tidy. The only thing out of place was the backpack on the table. It was still open. Peaking inside I could see two big heavy books and some scraps of paper. I asked the uniformed officers to place it in an evidence bag and to guard the caravan. I walked with Adam back to the centre. A few times I thought I heard something nearby, but I never saw anything.
“How's it going?” I asked James and Thomas.
“No-one had ever suspected anything. Plenty of them have said Vigo was a loner or a bit strange, but he kept to himself,” Thomas replied.
“Just write it all down. Major crimes will interview everyone themselves, but everything we get now could help them. Be vigilant. It is possible that he is still nearby.”
Barry joined us wearing a white overall. He looked drained.
“That bad?”
“Yes Frank. There are several bodies. The Crime Scene investigators agree with me, it’s going to be a hard investigation. It depends on the technique used whether we’ll find much in the way of DNA. In the restaurant the ones out in the open were done using sophisticated methods, but some of them in the ghost train are much cruder. At least two are a form of human taxidermy, that means that the skin is there, but no body, the opposite method of those in the restaurant. There is a real distinct odour in there. I’ve seen many bodies over the years, but I don’t mind admitting this has unsettled me.”
I listened intently to Barry and felt a knot tighten in my stomach.
“I’m not sure how this had gone unnoticed for so long!” His voice was raised, he stared at Adam.
Adam flushed and shook his head wildly.
“You think that I knew about this? Are you serious?! This fair is my life. My father ran it before me, my grandfather before that. The old days it was simpler. In recent years there is more red tape. I have to apply for permits, keep records for tax, ensure I am meeting health and safety measures. I even have to ensure the prizes are safe, but cheap enough to ensure we make money. I have to make sure there are enough people to man the rides and the stalls and keeping an eye out for trouble. Even though many of my generation are starting to tire of the travelling life and prefer to live somewhere more permanent. We have 25 rides and several stalls. It’s not an easy job. I don’t have time to inspect every ride…” his voice trialled off, but he was clearly agitated. Barry had certainly touched a nerve.
I watched as this young man flapped for a while, then reigned in his temper. He took a few deep breaths and continued.
“… Look. I grew up around Helios, he was a close friend of my father. I can’t say I paid him much attention. I never liked his models, but tended to stay clear. Usually they were completely covered with outfits and masks, so for all I know it could have been mannequins under there. I do remember him arguing with my dad about smells, but he said it was part of the effect and in a ghost train, who could argue, people go on that ride to be scared. It’s only been the past 3 or 4 years that Vigo has really started to push with what I thought were different modelling techniques that we could have more of them out in the open. If I had ever suspected I would have reported it myself. This is my livelihood!”
I felt Barry shift beside me, he looked a little flushed.
“I didn’t mean to upset you, Mr Aldervale. I think we are all a little shook up right now,” Barry said softly.
“Let’s all calm down. I think this is going to be a very complex investigation. If these bodies vary widely in ages, then tracing who they could be will be very hard, especially as the nature of your fair is to travel around the country. I don’t suppose you keep records?”
Adam flashed me a look of utter contempt.
“I don’t wear this suit to just look the part. Of course I keep records, this isn't just a way of life. It is also a business. The last 5 years records have been computerised. Earlier records are in ledger books. A tradition both my father and grandfather enjoyed. I have photo albums, journals and ledger books covering over 100 years.”
I held my hands up in mock surrender. I hadn’t meant to offend him.
“That would be most helpful. Please give all you can to DS Fox.”
Adam and Thomas started to talk freely and I turned back to Barry.
“Are you okay, Barry. I would understand If you want to go home.”
“I’d rather see this through, the thought of all those people, spending years as things for people to stare at. To think we only know because a bunch of rowdy teenagers knocked one over. So many lost souls. I will say one thing, some of the methods I suspect of being used couldn’t have been done in a small confined space like a caravan. The machinery and time it would take means it would have needed to be somewhere large and private.” Barry said.
Adam looked over and I encouraged him to speak.
“We don’t travel all year round. We have at least three months break each year, usually in the late autumn/winter months. Some of us travel together or stay at a static park, others have homes and warehouses and find other work for those months. I am pretty sure Helios used to do some occasional work designing set pieces for theatres. I will need to check my records but I am sure he has a warehouse in Reading.”
Barry returned to help in the ghost train. I told him I would join him after updating DCI Lawson. He explained that a major crime team from Reading would be here shortly and that they’d ask for me. I joked that when this was all over I could even look forward to a cup of coffee at the station and we both knew how horrid that stuff was.
Something caught my eye, I thought I saw someone between a stall next to the Waltzer. I went to investigate, but found nothing, I turned to head back when something hard hit me on the back of the head. My head throbbed and my vision blurred, the world began to spin. I heard heavy, ragged breathing and tried to turn towards it. That movement was a mistake. I felt my body falling and the world went black.
~ ~ ~
My head hurt. It felt damp at the back, I tried to pull my hand up to feel, but it wouldn’t move. I could hear something nearby. A strange smell filled my nostrils and I felt nauseous. I forced my eyes open. The lighting was low and above me were wooden slats, light filtering through the small gaps. I tried to speak, but something thick and rough filled my mouth. I heard noise again to my right and turned my head to look, I regretted it instantly. Sharp pain radiated around my head and my vision blurred, once it cleared I could see the shape of a person, he wore a light vest that was grubby. His skin also looked dirty. Even in this light I could see a tattoo on his right shoulder blade. My mind replayed the words of Madam Ezra as I realised that it was a black rabbit.
I was unable to stifle the cough that rose up as I tried to breathe. The rough material in my mouth pressed against the back of my throat and aggravated it. He turned around, his eyes were wild. This must be Vigo.
“Ah! You are awake! You have ruined everything and you must pay and I want you to experience everything.” he snapped.
He stepped closer, I tried to move, but I was pinned down. My shoulders hurt and my arms were pinned behind me and I could feel something pressing against my throat. I noticed he had something long and heavy in his hand. When he got closer I saw it was a hammer. I tried to yell, but that aggravated my throat.
“DI LYLE!… DAD!… FRANK!…” I heard several voices nearby. Vigo, moved out of my eye line. I tried again to move, but it was useless. He soon returned and I stilled, exhausted by the effort. The voices outside sounded quieter as they moved away from wherever we were.
“It looks like you’ll be my last victim. I’m afraid I won’t be able to preserve you, which is a pity as I have some new equipment. Still I will make sure we have fun. That was the best bit, playing with our victims, causing them as much pain before they were preserved. It helped capture the right look on their face.”
He raised the hammer above my head, I closed my eyes and thought of my family. The smiling faces of Jayseera, Jasmine and James.
“Oh no you don’t!” He kicked at my side, winding me. “Open those eyes!” He shouted.
I opened them and stared directly at him. I flinched as he started to fight with the hammer. His face was contorted with rage. He began to bring it down then kept stopping, like he was fighting with someone else. I heard a crashing noise nearby and then I heard the most welcome voice of James.
“Dad!”
Vigo froze and turned towards James. He started to lunge. My feeling of relief was replaced with fear for my son. I started to struggle again, but I couldn’t free myself and whatever was over my throat pressed tighter. Then I felt an intense pain in my head before the world turned black again.
~ ~ ~
I started to wake up. My head hurt. It no longer felt damp at the back. I put my hand up and this time it responded. My eyes were slow to open, the bright lights hurt. I could hear a beeping noise nearby and turned slowly to see an ECG monitor. I was in a hospital.
I felt someone take my arm and gently place it down, I recognised the perfume, it was Jayseera. She looked tired, her eyes were moist, she had been crying.
“Frank!”
“Hey!” I croaked, my throat was raw.
“We’ve all been so worried. The doctor said there was some swelling on your brain, you’ve slept for a while.”
“How long?” I asked.
“Just over 3 days.”
3 days? It didn't feel that long. It felt like it had happened only moments ago.
“James!” I yelled out.
“Shhhh!” Jayseera soothed, gently patting my arm.
“He's fine. Vigo is in custody. You're safe.”
~ ~ ~
I remained in hospital for a few days. Jasmine visited every day for an hour after school. Everyone kept saying how lucky I was, but I didn’t feel it. I couldn’t sleep without having nightmares. I kept remembering the wild look on Vigo’s face and his struggle with the hammer. He could have killed me so easily. Even James had a strange experience. Vigo had lunged towards him and he had prepared for a fight, but then Vigo acted like he was fighting with someone else. He stopped just short of James and started to roll around the floor. James had acted quickly. He knocked the hammer away and pinned him down until help came.
When I asked how he found me. He said Madam Ezra told him to follow the light. He dismissed it at first, but then saw strange flickers of light on the ground, like a torch shining. He followed it to underneath the Waltzer. That’s where he found me, next to me was a bag filled with several knives. They all had dried blood on and were being used as evidence. I shuddered at the thought of what might have happened.
I spoke with Jayseera about Madam Ezra. How she warned me not to follow the black rabbit and the tattoo on Vigo’s shoulder. We spoke about her saying I had two strong, but opposing spirits. Jayseera explained that Madam Ezra had been visiting the hospital daily to check on me and they had spoken a few times at great length.
After being released from the hospital I was signed off active duty for at least a week. Lawson warned me not to return until I felt up to it and to enjoy the time with my family. I was visited by Garrison, the lead investigator of the major crimes unit assigned to the case. I would be involved, but not in a major way, because my name was listed as one of the victims, albeit unsuccessful. He promised to keep me in the loop. He could tell me so far 22 bodies were confirmed as human and there were partial remains of a further seven. Early indications suggest victims spanned five decades, which is possibly how they got away with it for so long. They found evidence in the warehouse, including equipment, which held a body. They also found journals and photo albums documenting what they had done. Barring two of the more recent bodies, they had broken each body into pieces then preserved each part and reattached it. Adam Aldervale and his family records were helping. The hardest task would be searching missing people records and identifying the victims. Vigo Manzano had been detained in a high security mental institution for assessment.
The story still dominated the newspapers and news channels. They nicknamed it the 'Waxwork Murders Case'. Jasmine was suffering from nightmares and we were considering professional help, but she had improved a little now that I was safe.
~ ~ ~
The day before I was due to return to active duty, Madam Ezra visited. James and Thomas had taken Jasmine to the cinema.
“I’m pleased you are okay, Frank. Your light aura is more dominant today, but the dark will always be there.”
I looked towards Jayseera, she squeezed my hand in encouragement.
“I see you still have your doubts.” she paused till I relaxed a little. “Your light spirit is someone that you cared deeply for. You and he were close friends. He has been with you for many years. He wants you to know it wasn’t your fault and that he will always have your back.”
Jayseera squeezed my hand again.
“Your dark spirit has been with you for less time. Closer to 6 years, he says your fates are intertwined and that he owes you and those close to you. He says he will always be close waiting for the opportunity to cause you pain.”
I felt strange. I had convinced myself that nothing she could say would convince me, but the memory of my close call with that hammer meant my mind was more open. I knew who she meant. There wasn’t a day that went by that I didn’t think of my former partner Sunil Desai and, to some extent, Bob Kenyon. He was one of the worst cases I had ever been involved in before this.
She left soon after, telling me to get in touch whenever I liked. My heart felt heavy. I had spoken to Jayseera before about Sunil, and she told me about the Hindu faith and their belief in reincarnation. She often thought that Sunil was with me.
When James and Thomas returned with Jasmine we enjoyed some quality family time together. Jasmine had clearly enjoyed the film Mouse Trap. Though I got the impression that James and Thomas didn’t enjoy it quite as much.
That night before bed I stood in the bathroom and looked at my reflection. For a moment I could see the smiling face of Sunil and the snarling one of Kenyon. I still couldn’t explain what had happened with that hammer and the black rabbit. On the one hand I had a head injury and was under great stress. On the other it was a soothing thought to think that Sunil was there, keeping an eye on me when I needed it.
I turned away and joined Jayseera in bed. She turned to drape her arm over my chest and snuggled in. That night I slept soundly and for the first time in days I had no nightmares.
In the morning I would return to work refreshed and ready to face whatever came next.
~ The End ~
Author Bio – Caroline Lee
Visit Caroline's website Iwrote
I am 35 years old. I live near Doncaster with my husband, Dave and our three children Amy (9), Cara (8) and Alex (2). I am an avid reader, I like to read all sorts of stories and I have read (and Enjoyed!) all of the DI Lyle series to date. I enjoy being creative including drawing and painting. I am a music podcaster and I do a weekly show that promotes independent music. I also love to write. Crime fiction isn't my usual genre (though I do love reading it!). I really enjoyed this challenge and I look forward to reading all of the entries and feel honoured to be part of it.
I have a few works in progress and regularly take the opportunity to take part in writing challenges. I have a website which I used to showcase my work, but I also use it to review works by other authors and carry out interviews.
Thanks
I would like to thank Juliet B. Madison for having this idea. It's an honour to take part and support a worthy cause. It was nice to be given permission to play with your characters for a while, I hope I did them justice. Thanks to Paul Trembling for answering my query on forensic science. Thanks also go to Alistair Melling for his help regarding the format such a large investigation would take.
Idea behind the story
I wanted to do a story that featured Frank with his family in a social setting, but was mixed with his day job. I set it a few years in the future and liked the idea the idea that the relationship with James and Thomas would be stronger than ever and that would link the Lyle's and Fox's together.
Once I had the idea of a travelling fair, I pictured a few of the scenes and I liked the idea of victims being hidden in plain sight and exposed by a series of events.
The waxwork idea is not an uncommon trope in stories and I chose to reference Plastination, which was developed by Gunther Von Hagens in 1977. Initially it was used with small body parts and organs, but by the early 90's the technique and equipment was developed further allowing the plastination of whole bodies (though this takes a long time!). Whilst the term isn't very well known, people have likely heard of or seen images of the work that Gunther Von Hagens did. He travels the world exhibiting these bodies under the name 'Body Worlds'. In his case these bodies belonged to people who had given their consent, unlike those of Helios and Vigo in the story.
As for Madam Ezra and her suggestion that Frank has Sunil Desai on one shoulder and Bob Kenyon on the other, I leave it up to the reader to decide whether Madam Ezra is correct or not, whether you believe in spirits or not, I can't imagine Frank doesn't think of Sunil most days. Bob Kenyon was someone who would leave a lasting impression and who knows after the events in this story, he may have some company with Vigo.
References
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunther_von_Hagens
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_Worlds