Chapter 12
Disclaimer: None of these characters are mine.
The Trek Home
A way off the plateau is found. The inhabitants of the treehouse must make decisions about their futures.
Finn hurried around her room, trying to pack everything she could. There was a part of her that thought doing this was a waste of time. That they would all just have to slosh back through the jungle with all of their stuff, once it was discovered that Nigel had lied about having a plane and a radio.
Once she was satisfied that she had all that she could carry, Finn took one last look around. If Marguerite was right, then this would be the last time she would see her room, this treehouse, ever again.
She couldn't pretend that she wasn't frightened. If they got off this plateau, she would have no where to go. Finn swallowed. She had never been in to self-pity. She would get by.
Veronica appeared in her doorway. She had on a dress that Finn recognized as having belonged to Veronica's mother. Finn took a deep breath. She had forgotten how hard this had to be for Vee.
'Are you almost ready?' Veronica asked, her voice sounding odd.
Finn nodded. 'Yeah.'
Veronica peered at her. 'I know this has to be hard for you.'
'Not as hard as it is on you, Vee. You were born here. This is your parents home. I know you wanted to find your mother before you even thought about leaving here.'
Veronica touched the pendant she wore around her neck.
'I did. And I thought my mother would come to me when the time was right. I can't live the rest of my life wondering when that will be. And if Ned leaves here without me, I won't be able to survive without him.'
Finn nodded, looking away. Vee was lucky to have a nice guy like Malone.
Veronica walked towards her and touched her arm.
'Finn, Ned and I talked. If we get off this plateau...'
'You're not so convinced, are you?' Finn asked.
'No. But I'm going to play along with everyone's enthusiasm. If we do get back to civilization, Ned and I want you to come with us.'
Finn just stared at her. After a moment, she spoke.
'What do you mean?'
Veronica smiled. 'I mean we talked it over. Malone's real family is in America, specifically Boston. He wants to head back there and get married. We thought it would be easier if we just told people you were my little sister. In many ways, you are.'
Finn looked away, swiping at her eyes. She nodded.
'I....I guess that would be okay.'
Veronica hugged her briefly. 'Let's get going. Marguerite is already in the yard waiting.'
Finn sniffed. 'That's the real mystery.'
'What?'
'What Roxton and Marguerite are going to do if we get out of here.'
****
Challenger waited on the balcony for Malone, Veronica and Finn to finish their packing. He watched Marguerite pace below. Roxton was checking his rifle, and peeking at Marguerite, from a distance. Challenger shook his head.
He didn't know what the future set in store for those two, Challenger thought. He, himself, would've liked time to gather a dinosaur egg or something! Maybe they could pick up one on the way back to Nigel's compound.
Nigel Summerlee. Challenger shook his head, his thoughts on Arthur Summerlee. To finally know of his lost friend's fate. It gave him some peace, though it did not completely erase the guilt he still felt, at roping poor Arthur into coming on their ill-fated expedition.
And now Arthur's only son was dead. Challenger pushed away any guilt on that matter. With the way Nigel lived his life, if it hadn't been Marguerite that had killed him, it would've been someone else, probably a spurned woman.
Caroline. It would not be easy for her to hear that Nigel was dead. Challenger did hope that she would not be difficult about letting them use the radio or plane, if either things existed at all.
But he had his doubts that Nigel had been lying about having some way to get off of this plateau. Nigel Summerlee had been many things, but a fool, was not one of them. He wouldn't have searched high and low for that fruit, if he hadn't had a way to reap the financial rewards from its discovery.
Challenger turned at the sound of footsteps. Malone appeared, his pack full and his rifle loaded. He looked around.
'Marguerite and Roxton?' he asked.
Challenger moved off of the balcony, so his voice would not carry.
'They're down in the yard. Marguerite looks to be quite impatient.'
Malone sighed, then looked up the stairs. He then looked at Challenger.
'What's taking Veronica and Finn so long?'
Challenger took off his hat, scratching his head briefly, before putting it back on again.
'If this is to be the final time we are in this treehouse, then this is probably a difficult moment for both of them.'
'I know it is for Veronica, but Finn should be happier.'
Challenger eyed Malone. 'Ned, she comes from a time where her whole civilization was destroyed. She's had to survive on her own at an early age. She's never known real companionship or belonged anywhere. This plateau is the first relatively peaceful time she's known in a long time.'
Malone nodded impatiently. 'I realize that. That's why Veronica and I agreed to take Finn with us if we get back.'
Challenger raised a brow. 'You mean, to live with you?'
'Yes.'
Challenger took a deep breath. That arrangement sounded....potentially dangerous. How long until Malone and Veronica got sick of Finn being underfoot. In the time they came from, women did not run around on their own. They had husbands, or were left money by deceased husbands...the husband part was key. Challenger cleared his throat.
'I would like to offer an alternative.'
Malone gave Challenger a look of surprise.
'Why?'
'Ned, I know Veronica and you both mean well. But the two of you will need time to yourselves. Veronica will have to acclimate herself to the civilized world. Let me take Finn home with me...to Jessi. We never had any children...'
'Finn is not a child. She'll be fine with us. Really, I appreciate what you're trying to say, but it will be alright. We're all survivors. If we can live through dinosaurs, ape-men, cannibals and every supernatural thing invented, we can deal with the big, bad civilized world.'
Challenger nodded, doubtful. He decided to make his offer to Finn, at a later date.
****
'What's taking them so long?' Marguerite grumbled, looking up at the treehouse.
Roxton set down his rifle. 'Maybe they think we need time alone.'
'What we need is to get going! We don't know that Nigel didn't tell Caroline to take off if he didn't come back in a certain number of hours or something!'
'My, you really have thought of every negative scenario. Tell me, Marguerite, if there is no plane or radio, what do you do then?'
Marguerite took a deep breath. She recognized his tone and the question, as to be some sort of segueway into a discussion of their future. She turned away and began to pace.
Roxton walked tentatively towards her.
'Or, we do get out of here. The minute we're able to touch our feet on to London ground, what happens?'
Marguerite looked at him. 'You go and see your burned wife. I make sure I'm recognized as the Von Bubrik heir.'
Roxton reached out to her. Marguerite did not move away.
'We will figure out something. We will find a way to be together.'
Marguerite didn't answer, because she didn't believe it. And she didn't believe it because she didn't see how it was possible. Roxton would look like a real ogre if he didn't go back to his sick wife. And she was going to look like a total hussy either way.
Marguerite had decided that her first concern had to be for her child's future. Meaning she didn't want a scandal, with people whispering that her baby was the illegitimate child of Lord John Roxton. And one way to do that is to get what was hers, then leave London. She was thinking of going to America. From there, Marguerite planned to tell a nice cover story of how her 'husband' was killed in an accident, thus explaining her pregnancy and lack of husband.
'Marguerite?'
Marguerite realized John had been talking to her. She put her hands in her pockets. Roxton let go of her.
'John, you can't promise anything. And I have to look out for my baby.'
Roxton's expression became quite dour. But that was because he was worried.
'That is the second time you've referred to our child as if he or she were yours alone! I have no intention of letting you go through this by yourself. People will just have to understand, including Emma.'
Marguerite smiled sadly at him. She pulled one of her hands out of her pocket and touched his cheek.
'That's one of the things I love about you, Lord John Roxton. Your sense of honor. And it's that same honor that is going to make you stand by Emma, whether she was unfaithful or not. I'll be fine.'
The sound of the elevator descending, caused Marguerite to snatch her hand away and walk towards it. Roxton was visibly shaken. In just a few short days, their entire relationship had fallen apart. They had both been victimized by outsiders greed and lies.
Roxton hurried after her, catching up with her in three strides. He hurried so that he was in front of her. She stopped short.
'John?'
'You're planning on running away, aren't you? You're going to invent a pack of lies to cover for us?'
Marguerite gave him a pitying look.
'I've done it all of my life. I'll be alright.'
'I won't live my life without you or our child! We will be free to be together!'
Marguerite looked into his gleaming eyes. She could see that he loved her. She could see that he wanted to be with her and their child. But he had forgotten what civilization and all of it's trappings could beget. Gossip and innuendo. Besides, there was a part of her that was dying at the idea of not becoming his wife. In order to stay strong, she had to plan a future without him...starting now.
Challenger, Malone, Veronica and Finn appeared and began walking towards them. Marguerite glanced at them, before looking at Roxton.
'Let's get going.' she said.
'Promise me that you'll think about what I said.' Roxton insisted in a quite voice.
Marguerite nodded, trying not to look him in the eye.
****
The hike back to the compound was surprisingly uneventful, save for two ape-men and one raptor. Both were promptly shot dead.
It was after these killings, that Roxton did begin to indeed wonder, if this would finally be it. To walk this long throughout the jungle and not have to fire your gun more 5 times, was a miracle. Maybe it was a sign.
Marguerite lead the way, while Roxton brought up the rear. He watched her ponytail swing back and forth. Challenger was behind her, then Veronica, Malone, Finn and himself.
Marguerite stopped suddenly.
'What's wrong?' Roxton asked, cocking his shotgun.
She turned back to look at all of them.
'Do you smell that?'
Veronica perked up. 'Fire.'
'Damnit!' Marguerite hissed and began to run. Challenger pulled her back.
'Marguerite, you must take care of yourself! You can't go traipsing through this jungle!'
Marguerite pulled her arm free! 'Don't you see, Challenger? Don't you all see? I can see the flames from here! The compound is burning down!'
They all stared. There was quite a high fire raging in the distance. Footsteps were coming in their direction. Soon, Zangas were running towards them. Veronica moved up in front of Marguerite. Asai turned out to be one of them. She ran towards them, crying.
'Asai? What is it? What happened?' Veronica asked.
Zangas kept running past. Asai still tried to catch her breath. Finally, she spoke.
'One of the Piaroa tribesman came running into the compound. He said that they had been tricked...that that man that owned the compound poisoned their village, then tricked them into thinking he had cured an illness. He claimed that artifacts had been stolen.'
Veronica looked at Challenger. 'So much for Nigel's 'payment for curing illnesses'.'
Challenger looked back at Asai. 'What happened? Where is Caroline?'
'The lady that lives in the house? A few members of my tribe broke inside and confronted her. She had locked herself in a room. A fire was set to the house.'
Asai coughed. A few of her fellow tribesman came along and pulled her away wordlessly. Marguerite began to run towards the compound. Challenger looked back at all of them. Roxton was the second to give chase.
'Bloody hell!' Roxton swore between gritted teeth, as he chased after Marguerite.
****
The compound and the land surrounding it were in flames. Caroline was coughing some distance away, staring into the flames. She did not hear the others approach. Se jumped when Marguerite suddenly appeared before her.
Caroline coughed. 'Marguerite?'
She looked at everyone, then looked around them.
'Where is Nigel?'
'Dead!' Marguerite hissed in a flat voice. Roxton walked up beside her. Challenger got in between Marguerite and Caroline. Finn watched the fire. Malone and Veronica hung back together.
'Caroline, we know about what Nigel was doing. We were forced to kill him in self defense.'
Caroline's eyes widened. 'You killed him?! Why? All he wanted to know was where that fruit was!'
Marguerite tried to step around Challenger, but he gently pushed her back towards Roxton, who pulled her back as well. He held on to her. Marguerite did not resist his embrace, but continued to watch Caroline carefully.
'Caroline,' Challenger gently began, 'Nigel had the Countess Charisse Von Bubrik poison our food.'
Caroline said nothing. She bit her lip.
'I never liked her. I didn't know what she was up to, but I suppose I'm not surprised. I wondered why Nigel insisted that she stay here.'
'Save your regrets, Caroline. We need to find a way off of this plateau. Nigel said there was a radio and a plane.'
Caroline breathed heavily, her eyes shiny. She coughed once more, then nodded. From afar, Marguerite smiled with satisfaction.
'The radio...was inside the compound. It's gone. But the plane is in that wooded area...over there.'
Caroline pointed towards a darkly, wooded forest, located behind the now burning compound.
'It seats two. Nigel was the only one that knew how to fly it.'
Challenger rested a hand against her cheek, then turned towards the rest of the group. He walked over to them. Malone and Veronica moved closer as well.
'Caroline says the radio was inside the compound.'
'Great!' Marguerite said.
Challenger held up a hand. 'But, there is a two seater plane in the woods back there. We have to make a decision now. Who is flying back?'
Everyone looked at one another. Finn then spoke.
'I think it's common sense, guys. Who knows how to fly a plane?'
Challenger and Roxton looked at one another. They were the only two familiar with air machinery.
Marguerite smiled. 'Then it's decided. One or both of you will go home, then return with a rescue crew for the rest of us.'
Roxton shook his head. 'I'm not leaving.'
Marguerite sighed, knowing he felt this way because of her. She touched his arm and smiled reassuringly at him, and everyone else.
'I'm not going anywhere. Besides, both of you should have back up, in case for some reason, one of you is unable to fly.'
Challenger looked unsure. 'I hate to leave you here unprotected.'
'What am I? Chopped liver? I can look out for everyone.' Malone answered. Veronica put an arm around him.
'And I've survived here for eleven years alone. I can take care of myself.'
Finn nodded. 'I'm pretty independent as well.'
Marguerite smiled again. 'You see? We'll be fine. Besides, I think it's a good idea to keep Ms. Caroline here with us...for insurance. I'm sure she has friends and dependents that would love to see her, and her money, again.'
Caroline was not looking at them, but was staring off into the fire again. Roxton pulled Challenger aside.
'I don't know. The thought of leaving Marguerite here...'
'I have faith that the others will look out for her.'
Roxton said nothing. Challenger nodded.
'I think we should go and take a look at this plane. For all we know, it might not be flyable.'
Roxton nodded silently again. He almost hoped it wasn't.
****
Epilogue-Six months later, London
****
Lord John Roxton stood at a window, watching the rain fall. Emma's funeral had been this morning. But his thoughts were not with the wife that lay in the ground. He was now free to go to Marguerite and their daughter, Greta.
Of course, Roxton was sure that Marguerite thought he did not know of their child's name, or where they were living. But, thanks to Veronica and a private investigator he had employed to watch over Marguerite and his daughter, Roxton knew just about everything.
After Challenger and Roxton returned home, the Zoological Society had been more than appalled to see Challenger. Apparently when the official news of Summerlee's death reached the scientific community, it was assumed that everyone from the expedition had perished as well.
Donations to fund the return expedition poured in. Roxton figured the sight of the both of them, was proof that they had been somewhere noteworthy.
Challenger was reunited with his dear wife, Jessi. And she was a dear. Roxton took to her right away, and she treated him in a motherly fashion. While Challenger helped plan the rescue, Jessi listened to Roxton's worries for Marguerite and their child...and his marital situation.
He had been boggled down with Emma, just as Marguerite had predicted. Emma had been severely burned, and was not able to breath properly. She barely acknowledged his presence. Roxton had asked her doctor how aware she was of anything or anyone around her. Her doctor had replied, not very.
But, as a gentleman, Roxton could not leave a dying woman. The doctors kept telling him it would not be long. God help him, Roxton prayed for her death everyday. Not only because it would free him to be with Marguerite, but, because it would also cease Emma's suffering. Two days ago, his prayers were answered.
Emma's parents were at the Roxton estate almost everyday, as they had been, since the tragedy occurred. Roxton had not been able to bring himself to admit that he knew the identity of their daughter's murderer. Because talking about Nigel made him think about Marguerite.
Challenger left again, much to Jessi's great trepidation, to oversee the expedition. Roxton tried to console her, telling her that her husband would be back in a more timely manner this time. She stayed with him on his estate, helping to care for Emma, and listening to his tales of their adventures on the plateau.
Jessi's eyes had widened at the stories of their fending off ape-men, t-rex's and other forms of primitive life. She smiled when Roxton told her that if it had not been for Challenger's many inventions, life on that plateau would've been unbearable.
It was during a quiet moment, when Emma was sleeping, that he and Jessi sat in his drawing room. She gently asked him about Marguerite.
Roxton told her the truth. That he had been drawn to Marguerite Krux from the moment he set eyes on her. But, that his loving her had been more of a surprise to him than anyone else...since everyone else claimed they could see it before he, or even Marguerite could. Roxton confided the hopelessness of their situation. Not hopeless to him, Roxton stressed, but to Marguerite. She would not want to be embarrassed by getting married so late in her pregnancy, or worse yet, after the baby was born.
It felt good to confide in someone. Roxton wondered how Challenger survived the loneliness these past years, since Jessi was such a good listener and a gentle soul at that. Roxton had more admiration for George Challenger than ever.
When Malone, Veronica, Finn, Marguerite and Challenger returned, some time later, Jessi had put on a small celebration at the Challenger home. The press had been ruthless, taking note of Marguerite's condition, which was clearly obvious. The rumors that the child was his were relentless. There were even some obscene gossip that the baby had been fathered by an ape! Marguerite did not join the celebration that day.
Needless to say, Marguerite did as she said she was going to do. She produced the document the Countess tried to get her to sign. She hired a top-notch solicitor, and with his help, found proof in Ian Royce's law office of Marguerite's birthright.
Marguerite never took up residence on the Von Bubrik estate. That was not common knowledge, until 'neighbors' and other sorts, came out of the woodwork, with the pretext of 'welcoming' Marguerite. They never got the chance.
Roxton had been beside himself for weeks, wondering if she was in America, hiding from people and making up some story to explain her condition. Luckily, Veronica sent him a letter one day that put his mind to ease.
Marguerite had moved with Malone, Veronica and Finn to Boston. Malone, who's father had died during his absence, was now the owner of the Boston Journal. His mother was not thrilled with her only son's choice of a fiancee, or his fiancee's 'sister'. Malone had purchased a house for Veronica and him to live in after they were married.
According to Veronica, Marguerite had helped both Veronica and Finn learn how to blend into 'upper class' society. Both young women were living on Marguerite's estate, with Marguerite, that she had purchased. Most people seemed to buy her cover story that her husband had been killed by savages in some foreign country, while he was on a business trip. They pitied her having to raise a child alone.
Veronica assured him in this letter, and the ensuing ones, that they were all looking out for Marguerite. She also wrote that Marguerite had undertaken the task of planning Veronica and Malone's wedding. Roxton highly doubted that Marguerite was even aware that he was receiving updates on her welfare.
Then came the big letter. The one that went into detail about Marguerite's giving birth to their daughter, on a rainy night about a month ago. How Veronica helped deliver the baby into this world. How Marguerite decided to name the child, a girl, Greta, after her real birth mother, Greta Von Bubrick.
Roxton's heart had swelled with pride reading about his daughter's birth. His daughter. His little girl. Greta Roxton. It was at that moment that he decided that come hell or high water, Marguerite would be his wife and his child would have his last name.
Flossie, his maid, interrupted his thoughts by clearing her throat. Roxton focused on her.
'Yes, Flossie?'
'That man, Mr. Merrick, is here to see you.'
Roxton gave her a quick smile.
'Thank you, Flossie.
Flossie left the room, while Mr. Stefan Merrick, his man that he had secretly watching over Marguerite, walked in. It wasn't that he didn't trust Veronica. But she had her own life, as did Finn. He didn't like the thought of Marguerite and his little girl in a big house all alone.
'Mr. Merrick. Do sit down.'
Roxton indicated a chair. Merrick shook his head.
'I would prefer to stand. Lord Roxton, I thought I should deliver this news personally.'
Roxton didn't like his demeanor. He tried to stay calm.
'Just say whatever it is then.'
Stefan Merrick coughed. 'One of my men has found evidence that someone has been watching Ms. Von Bubrick and her child. Not so much the other two women, but mainly Ms. Von Bubrick and her baby.'
Roxton began to pace. He then stopped and took a deep breath.
'Keep your men on it. And if this person dares to lay a finger on anyone living on that estate...'
Stefan walked over to him. 'Believe me, we are on it. No harm will come to anyone.'
Roxton nodded. 'No, it won't. I plan to get my business in order here, then join Ms. Von Bubrick in Boston soon. Until then...'
Stefan nodded. 'They will be fine until your arrival.'
Roxton was about to say something else, when Flossie walked in and interrupted them.
'Yes, Flossie?' Roxton asked impatiently. He didn't want anyone overhearing anything about Marguerite or little Greta.
'I'm sorry, my Lord, but Mrs. Challenger is here to see you.'
Roxton raised a brow. He looked at Merrick.
'We're through here. I'll be in touch when I reach Boston.'
Merrick nodded, then allowed Roxton to walk him out. He stopped short when he saw Jessi Challenger. She looked rather a fright. Her hair and everything else was sopping wet. Merrick turned back to Roxton.
'Is everything alright?' he asked.
Roxton was unsettled by the desperation he saw in Jessi's eyes. He tore his eyes from Jessi back to Merrick.
'I'm sure everything is fine. Good night.'
'Goodnight, Lord Roxton.' Merrick answered, tearing his eyes off of Jessi Challenger. The maid opened the door for him and closed it firmly after him. She then turned back towards Roxton and Jessi. She offered to take Jessi's wet things.
Jessi gave the servant a lukewarm smile, then shook her head. Roxton nodded for the maid's dismissal, then pulled Jessi into the drawing room and sat her before the fire.
'Jessi, we must get you out of these wet things...'
Jessi suddenly grabbed his hands!
'Lord Roxton...'
Roxton smiled.
'How many times have I told you to call me John?'
Jessi couldn't even smile. Roxton was clearly worried.
'What? What is it, Jessi?'
Jessi swallowed hard. 'The police! The police from Scotland Yard were looking for George!'
Roxton sat down beside her and squeezed her hands. He rubbed them.
'Calm down and tell me what this is all about?'
Jessi squeezed his hands. 'They came to the house...two of them...George was not home, thank God! They said they think he's involved in those two murders!'
Roxton squinted at her. He kept his voice low. 'Jessi...I don't have any idea what you are talking about. What murders?'
Jessi sucked in a breath. 'I'm sorry...with all that you've had to deal with, you probably didn't know. Two people...a man and a woman, were killed down by some docks or something...I don't know the whole story. They think that George knows who the killer is!'
Now Roxton was more confused than ever!
'Jessi, why do they think that?'
Tears began to run down her face. 'Because the men said that they know that the killer is some kind of ape or animal. They think that when George returned from the plateau the second time...'
'The rescue expedition?' Roxton asked.
Jessi nodded. 'Yes! They think either he brought something back or invented something or....'
'Or what, Jessi?'
Jessi bit her lip.
'I can't help if you don't tell me everything.'
Jessi closed her eyes, then opened them.
'They think that George himself may be this ape killer. That something happened to him during those three years! John, they hinted that if it turned out to not be him, that the killer is probably one of you!'
John let go of her hands and stood up.
'One of us?' he repeated.
Jessi stood up. 'John please! Help my husband! I just got him back!'
Roxton put his arms around her. He had once told George Challenger he would follow him into hell. He thought he had already done that. It looks as if he was wrong.
Next Part: The Lost World: Beyond The Plateau
The Trek Home
A way off the plateau is found. The inhabitants of the treehouse must make decisions about their futures.
Finn hurried around her room, trying to pack everything she could. There was a part of her that thought doing this was a waste of time. That they would all just have to slosh back through the jungle with all of their stuff, once it was discovered that Nigel had lied about having a plane and a radio.
Once she was satisfied that she had all that she could carry, Finn took one last look around. If Marguerite was right, then this would be the last time she would see her room, this treehouse, ever again.
She couldn't pretend that she wasn't frightened. If they got off this plateau, she would have no where to go. Finn swallowed. She had never been in to self-pity. She would get by.
Veronica appeared in her doorway. She had on a dress that Finn recognized as having belonged to Veronica's mother. Finn took a deep breath. She had forgotten how hard this had to be for Vee.
'Are you almost ready?' Veronica asked, her voice sounding odd.
Finn nodded. 'Yeah.'
Veronica peered at her. 'I know this has to be hard for you.'
'Not as hard as it is on you, Vee. You were born here. This is your parents home. I know you wanted to find your mother before you even thought about leaving here.'
Veronica touched the pendant she wore around her neck.
'I did. And I thought my mother would come to me when the time was right. I can't live the rest of my life wondering when that will be. And if Ned leaves here without me, I won't be able to survive without him.'
Finn nodded, looking away. Vee was lucky to have a nice guy like Malone.
Veronica walked towards her and touched her arm.
'Finn, Ned and I talked. If we get off this plateau...'
'You're not so convinced, are you?' Finn asked.
'No. But I'm going to play along with everyone's enthusiasm. If we do get back to civilization, Ned and I want you to come with us.'
Finn just stared at her. After a moment, she spoke.
'What do you mean?'
Veronica smiled. 'I mean we talked it over. Malone's real family is in America, specifically Boston. He wants to head back there and get married. We thought it would be easier if we just told people you were my little sister. In many ways, you are.'
Finn looked away, swiping at her eyes. She nodded.
'I....I guess that would be okay.'
Veronica hugged her briefly. 'Let's get going. Marguerite is already in the yard waiting.'
Finn sniffed. 'That's the real mystery.'
'What?'
'What Roxton and Marguerite are going to do if we get out of here.'
****
Challenger waited on the balcony for Malone, Veronica and Finn to finish their packing. He watched Marguerite pace below. Roxton was checking his rifle, and peeking at Marguerite, from a distance. Challenger shook his head.
He didn't know what the future set in store for those two, Challenger thought. He, himself, would've liked time to gather a dinosaur egg or something! Maybe they could pick up one on the way back to Nigel's compound.
Nigel Summerlee. Challenger shook his head, his thoughts on Arthur Summerlee. To finally know of his lost friend's fate. It gave him some peace, though it did not completely erase the guilt he still felt, at roping poor Arthur into coming on their ill-fated expedition.
And now Arthur's only son was dead. Challenger pushed away any guilt on that matter. With the way Nigel lived his life, if it hadn't been Marguerite that had killed him, it would've been someone else, probably a spurned woman.
Caroline. It would not be easy for her to hear that Nigel was dead. Challenger did hope that she would not be difficult about letting them use the radio or plane, if either things existed at all.
But he had his doubts that Nigel had been lying about having some way to get off of this plateau. Nigel Summerlee had been many things, but a fool, was not one of them. He wouldn't have searched high and low for that fruit, if he hadn't had a way to reap the financial rewards from its discovery.
Challenger turned at the sound of footsteps. Malone appeared, his pack full and his rifle loaded. He looked around.
'Marguerite and Roxton?' he asked.
Challenger moved off of the balcony, so his voice would not carry.
'They're down in the yard. Marguerite looks to be quite impatient.'
Malone sighed, then looked up the stairs. He then looked at Challenger.
'What's taking Veronica and Finn so long?'
Challenger took off his hat, scratching his head briefly, before putting it back on again.
'If this is to be the final time we are in this treehouse, then this is probably a difficult moment for both of them.'
'I know it is for Veronica, but Finn should be happier.'
Challenger eyed Malone. 'Ned, she comes from a time where her whole civilization was destroyed. She's had to survive on her own at an early age. She's never known real companionship or belonged anywhere. This plateau is the first relatively peaceful time she's known in a long time.'
Malone nodded impatiently. 'I realize that. That's why Veronica and I agreed to take Finn with us if we get back.'
Challenger raised a brow. 'You mean, to live with you?'
'Yes.'
Challenger took a deep breath. That arrangement sounded....potentially dangerous. How long until Malone and Veronica got sick of Finn being underfoot. In the time they came from, women did not run around on their own. They had husbands, or were left money by deceased husbands...the husband part was key. Challenger cleared his throat.
'I would like to offer an alternative.'
Malone gave Challenger a look of surprise.
'Why?'
'Ned, I know Veronica and you both mean well. But the two of you will need time to yourselves. Veronica will have to acclimate herself to the civilized world. Let me take Finn home with me...to Jessi. We never had any children...'
'Finn is not a child. She'll be fine with us. Really, I appreciate what you're trying to say, but it will be alright. We're all survivors. If we can live through dinosaurs, ape-men, cannibals and every supernatural thing invented, we can deal with the big, bad civilized world.'
Challenger nodded, doubtful. He decided to make his offer to Finn, at a later date.
****
'What's taking them so long?' Marguerite grumbled, looking up at the treehouse.
Roxton set down his rifle. 'Maybe they think we need time alone.'
'What we need is to get going! We don't know that Nigel didn't tell Caroline to take off if he didn't come back in a certain number of hours or something!'
'My, you really have thought of every negative scenario. Tell me, Marguerite, if there is no plane or radio, what do you do then?'
Marguerite took a deep breath. She recognized his tone and the question, as to be some sort of segueway into a discussion of their future. She turned away and began to pace.
Roxton walked tentatively towards her.
'Or, we do get out of here. The minute we're able to touch our feet on to London ground, what happens?'
Marguerite looked at him. 'You go and see your burned wife. I make sure I'm recognized as the Von Bubrik heir.'
Roxton reached out to her. Marguerite did not move away.
'We will figure out something. We will find a way to be together.'
Marguerite didn't answer, because she didn't believe it. And she didn't believe it because she didn't see how it was possible. Roxton would look like a real ogre if he didn't go back to his sick wife. And she was going to look like a total hussy either way.
Marguerite had decided that her first concern had to be for her child's future. Meaning she didn't want a scandal, with people whispering that her baby was the illegitimate child of Lord John Roxton. And one way to do that is to get what was hers, then leave London. She was thinking of going to America. From there, Marguerite planned to tell a nice cover story of how her 'husband' was killed in an accident, thus explaining her pregnancy and lack of husband.
'Marguerite?'
Marguerite realized John had been talking to her. She put her hands in her pockets. Roxton let go of her.
'John, you can't promise anything. And I have to look out for my baby.'
Roxton's expression became quite dour. But that was because he was worried.
'That is the second time you've referred to our child as if he or she were yours alone! I have no intention of letting you go through this by yourself. People will just have to understand, including Emma.'
Marguerite smiled sadly at him. She pulled one of her hands out of her pocket and touched his cheek.
'That's one of the things I love about you, Lord John Roxton. Your sense of honor. And it's that same honor that is going to make you stand by Emma, whether she was unfaithful or not. I'll be fine.'
The sound of the elevator descending, caused Marguerite to snatch her hand away and walk towards it. Roxton was visibly shaken. In just a few short days, their entire relationship had fallen apart. They had both been victimized by outsiders greed and lies.
Roxton hurried after her, catching up with her in three strides. He hurried so that he was in front of her. She stopped short.
'John?'
'You're planning on running away, aren't you? You're going to invent a pack of lies to cover for us?'
Marguerite gave him a pitying look.
'I've done it all of my life. I'll be alright.'
'I won't live my life without you or our child! We will be free to be together!'
Marguerite looked into his gleaming eyes. She could see that he loved her. She could see that he wanted to be with her and their child. But he had forgotten what civilization and all of it's trappings could beget. Gossip and innuendo. Besides, there was a part of her that was dying at the idea of not becoming his wife. In order to stay strong, she had to plan a future without him...starting now.
Challenger, Malone, Veronica and Finn appeared and began walking towards them. Marguerite glanced at them, before looking at Roxton.
'Let's get going.' she said.
'Promise me that you'll think about what I said.' Roxton insisted in a quite voice.
Marguerite nodded, trying not to look him in the eye.
****
The hike back to the compound was surprisingly uneventful, save for two ape-men and one raptor. Both were promptly shot dead.
It was after these killings, that Roxton did begin to indeed wonder, if this would finally be it. To walk this long throughout the jungle and not have to fire your gun more 5 times, was a miracle. Maybe it was a sign.
Marguerite lead the way, while Roxton brought up the rear. He watched her ponytail swing back and forth. Challenger was behind her, then Veronica, Malone, Finn and himself.
Marguerite stopped suddenly.
'What's wrong?' Roxton asked, cocking his shotgun.
She turned back to look at all of them.
'Do you smell that?'
Veronica perked up. 'Fire.'
'Damnit!' Marguerite hissed and began to run. Challenger pulled her back.
'Marguerite, you must take care of yourself! You can't go traipsing through this jungle!'
Marguerite pulled her arm free! 'Don't you see, Challenger? Don't you all see? I can see the flames from here! The compound is burning down!'
They all stared. There was quite a high fire raging in the distance. Footsteps were coming in their direction. Soon, Zangas were running towards them. Veronica moved up in front of Marguerite. Asai turned out to be one of them. She ran towards them, crying.
'Asai? What is it? What happened?' Veronica asked.
Zangas kept running past. Asai still tried to catch her breath. Finally, she spoke.
'One of the Piaroa tribesman came running into the compound. He said that they had been tricked...that that man that owned the compound poisoned their village, then tricked them into thinking he had cured an illness. He claimed that artifacts had been stolen.'
Veronica looked at Challenger. 'So much for Nigel's 'payment for curing illnesses'.'
Challenger looked back at Asai. 'What happened? Where is Caroline?'
'The lady that lives in the house? A few members of my tribe broke inside and confronted her. She had locked herself in a room. A fire was set to the house.'
Asai coughed. A few of her fellow tribesman came along and pulled her away wordlessly. Marguerite began to run towards the compound. Challenger looked back at all of them. Roxton was the second to give chase.
'Bloody hell!' Roxton swore between gritted teeth, as he chased after Marguerite.
****
The compound and the land surrounding it were in flames. Caroline was coughing some distance away, staring into the flames. She did not hear the others approach. Se jumped when Marguerite suddenly appeared before her.
Caroline coughed. 'Marguerite?'
She looked at everyone, then looked around them.
'Where is Nigel?'
'Dead!' Marguerite hissed in a flat voice. Roxton walked up beside her. Challenger got in between Marguerite and Caroline. Finn watched the fire. Malone and Veronica hung back together.
'Caroline, we know about what Nigel was doing. We were forced to kill him in self defense.'
Caroline's eyes widened. 'You killed him?! Why? All he wanted to know was where that fruit was!'
Marguerite tried to step around Challenger, but he gently pushed her back towards Roxton, who pulled her back as well. He held on to her. Marguerite did not resist his embrace, but continued to watch Caroline carefully.
'Caroline,' Challenger gently began, 'Nigel had the Countess Charisse Von Bubrik poison our food.'
Caroline said nothing. She bit her lip.
'I never liked her. I didn't know what she was up to, but I suppose I'm not surprised. I wondered why Nigel insisted that she stay here.'
'Save your regrets, Caroline. We need to find a way off of this plateau. Nigel said there was a radio and a plane.'
Caroline breathed heavily, her eyes shiny. She coughed once more, then nodded. From afar, Marguerite smiled with satisfaction.
'The radio...was inside the compound. It's gone. But the plane is in that wooded area...over there.'
Caroline pointed towards a darkly, wooded forest, located behind the now burning compound.
'It seats two. Nigel was the only one that knew how to fly it.'
Challenger rested a hand against her cheek, then turned towards the rest of the group. He walked over to them. Malone and Veronica moved closer as well.
'Caroline says the radio was inside the compound.'
'Great!' Marguerite said.
Challenger held up a hand. 'But, there is a two seater plane in the woods back there. We have to make a decision now. Who is flying back?'
Everyone looked at one another. Finn then spoke.
'I think it's common sense, guys. Who knows how to fly a plane?'
Challenger and Roxton looked at one another. They were the only two familiar with air machinery.
Marguerite smiled. 'Then it's decided. One or both of you will go home, then return with a rescue crew for the rest of us.'
Roxton shook his head. 'I'm not leaving.'
Marguerite sighed, knowing he felt this way because of her. She touched his arm and smiled reassuringly at him, and everyone else.
'I'm not going anywhere. Besides, both of you should have back up, in case for some reason, one of you is unable to fly.'
Challenger looked unsure. 'I hate to leave you here unprotected.'
'What am I? Chopped liver? I can look out for everyone.' Malone answered. Veronica put an arm around him.
'And I've survived here for eleven years alone. I can take care of myself.'
Finn nodded. 'I'm pretty independent as well.'
Marguerite smiled again. 'You see? We'll be fine. Besides, I think it's a good idea to keep Ms. Caroline here with us...for insurance. I'm sure she has friends and dependents that would love to see her, and her money, again.'
Caroline was not looking at them, but was staring off into the fire again. Roxton pulled Challenger aside.
'I don't know. The thought of leaving Marguerite here...'
'I have faith that the others will look out for her.'
Roxton said nothing. Challenger nodded.
'I think we should go and take a look at this plane. For all we know, it might not be flyable.'
Roxton nodded silently again. He almost hoped it wasn't.
****
Epilogue-Six months later, London
****
Lord John Roxton stood at a window, watching the rain fall. Emma's funeral had been this morning. But his thoughts were not with the wife that lay in the ground. He was now free to go to Marguerite and their daughter, Greta.
Of course, Roxton was sure that Marguerite thought he did not know of their child's name, or where they were living. But, thanks to Veronica and a private investigator he had employed to watch over Marguerite and his daughter, Roxton knew just about everything.
After Challenger and Roxton returned home, the Zoological Society had been more than appalled to see Challenger. Apparently when the official news of Summerlee's death reached the scientific community, it was assumed that everyone from the expedition had perished as well.
Donations to fund the return expedition poured in. Roxton figured the sight of the both of them, was proof that they had been somewhere noteworthy.
Challenger was reunited with his dear wife, Jessi. And she was a dear. Roxton took to her right away, and she treated him in a motherly fashion. While Challenger helped plan the rescue, Jessi listened to Roxton's worries for Marguerite and their child...and his marital situation.
He had been boggled down with Emma, just as Marguerite had predicted. Emma had been severely burned, and was not able to breath properly. She barely acknowledged his presence. Roxton had asked her doctor how aware she was of anything or anyone around her. Her doctor had replied, not very.
But, as a gentleman, Roxton could not leave a dying woman. The doctors kept telling him it would not be long. God help him, Roxton prayed for her death everyday. Not only because it would free him to be with Marguerite, but, because it would also cease Emma's suffering. Two days ago, his prayers were answered.
Emma's parents were at the Roxton estate almost everyday, as they had been, since the tragedy occurred. Roxton had not been able to bring himself to admit that he knew the identity of their daughter's murderer. Because talking about Nigel made him think about Marguerite.
Challenger left again, much to Jessi's great trepidation, to oversee the expedition. Roxton tried to console her, telling her that her husband would be back in a more timely manner this time. She stayed with him on his estate, helping to care for Emma, and listening to his tales of their adventures on the plateau.
Jessi's eyes had widened at the stories of their fending off ape-men, t-rex's and other forms of primitive life. She smiled when Roxton told her that if it had not been for Challenger's many inventions, life on that plateau would've been unbearable.
It was during a quiet moment, when Emma was sleeping, that he and Jessi sat in his drawing room. She gently asked him about Marguerite.
Roxton told her the truth. That he had been drawn to Marguerite Krux from the moment he set eyes on her. But, that his loving her had been more of a surprise to him than anyone else...since everyone else claimed they could see it before he, or even Marguerite could. Roxton confided the hopelessness of their situation. Not hopeless to him, Roxton stressed, but to Marguerite. She would not want to be embarrassed by getting married so late in her pregnancy, or worse yet, after the baby was born.
It felt good to confide in someone. Roxton wondered how Challenger survived the loneliness these past years, since Jessi was such a good listener and a gentle soul at that. Roxton had more admiration for George Challenger than ever.
When Malone, Veronica, Finn, Marguerite and Challenger returned, some time later, Jessi had put on a small celebration at the Challenger home. The press had been ruthless, taking note of Marguerite's condition, which was clearly obvious. The rumors that the child was his were relentless. There were even some obscene gossip that the baby had been fathered by an ape! Marguerite did not join the celebration that day.
Needless to say, Marguerite did as she said she was going to do. She produced the document the Countess tried to get her to sign. She hired a top-notch solicitor, and with his help, found proof in Ian Royce's law office of Marguerite's birthright.
Marguerite never took up residence on the Von Bubrik estate. That was not common knowledge, until 'neighbors' and other sorts, came out of the woodwork, with the pretext of 'welcoming' Marguerite. They never got the chance.
Roxton had been beside himself for weeks, wondering if she was in America, hiding from people and making up some story to explain her condition. Luckily, Veronica sent him a letter one day that put his mind to ease.
Marguerite had moved with Malone, Veronica and Finn to Boston. Malone, who's father had died during his absence, was now the owner of the Boston Journal. His mother was not thrilled with her only son's choice of a fiancee, or his fiancee's 'sister'. Malone had purchased a house for Veronica and him to live in after they were married.
According to Veronica, Marguerite had helped both Veronica and Finn learn how to blend into 'upper class' society. Both young women were living on Marguerite's estate, with Marguerite, that she had purchased. Most people seemed to buy her cover story that her husband had been killed by savages in some foreign country, while he was on a business trip. They pitied her having to raise a child alone.
Veronica assured him in this letter, and the ensuing ones, that they were all looking out for Marguerite. She also wrote that Marguerite had undertaken the task of planning Veronica and Malone's wedding. Roxton highly doubted that Marguerite was even aware that he was receiving updates on her welfare.
Then came the big letter. The one that went into detail about Marguerite's giving birth to their daughter, on a rainy night about a month ago. How Veronica helped deliver the baby into this world. How Marguerite decided to name the child, a girl, Greta, after her real birth mother, Greta Von Bubrick.
Roxton's heart had swelled with pride reading about his daughter's birth. His daughter. His little girl. Greta Roxton. It was at that moment that he decided that come hell or high water, Marguerite would be his wife and his child would have his last name.
Flossie, his maid, interrupted his thoughts by clearing her throat. Roxton focused on her.
'Yes, Flossie?'
'That man, Mr. Merrick, is here to see you.'
Roxton gave her a quick smile.
'Thank you, Flossie.
Flossie left the room, while Mr. Stefan Merrick, his man that he had secretly watching over Marguerite, walked in. It wasn't that he didn't trust Veronica. But she had her own life, as did Finn. He didn't like the thought of Marguerite and his little girl in a big house all alone.
'Mr. Merrick. Do sit down.'
Roxton indicated a chair. Merrick shook his head.
'I would prefer to stand. Lord Roxton, I thought I should deliver this news personally.'
Roxton didn't like his demeanor. He tried to stay calm.
'Just say whatever it is then.'
Stefan Merrick coughed. 'One of my men has found evidence that someone has been watching Ms. Von Bubrick and her child. Not so much the other two women, but mainly Ms. Von Bubrick and her baby.'
Roxton began to pace. He then stopped and took a deep breath.
'Keep your men on it. And if this person dares to lay a finger on anyone living on that estate...'
Stefan walked over to him. 'Believe me, we are on it. No harm will come to anyone.'
Roxton nodded. 'No, it won't. I plan to get my business in order here, then join Ms. Von Bubrick in Boston soon. Until then...'
Stefan nodded. 'They will be fine until your arrival.'
Roxton was about to say something else, when Flossie walked in and interrupted them.
'Yes, Flossie?' Roxton asked impatiently. He didn't want anyone overhearing anything about Marguerite or little Greta.
'I'm sorry, my Lord, but Mrs. Challenger is here to see you.'
Roxton raised a brow. He looked at Merrick.
'We're through here. I'll be in touch when I reach Boston.'
Merrick nodded, then allowed Roxton to walk him out. He stopped short when he saw Jessi Challenger. She looked rather a fright. Her hair and everything else was sopping wet. Merrick turned back to Roxton.
'Is everything alright?' he asked.
Roxton was unsettled by the desperation he saw in Jessi's eyes. He tore his eyes from Jessi back to Merrick.
'I'm sure everything is fine. Good night.'
'Goodnight, Lord Roxton.' Merrick answered, tearing his eyes off of Jessi Challenger. The maid opened the door for him and closed it firmly after him. She then turned back towards Roxton and Jessi. She offered to take Jessi's wet things.
Jessi gave the servant a lukewarm smile, then shook her head. Roxton nodded for the maid's dismissal, then pulled Jessi into the drawing room and sat her before the fire.
'Jessi, we must get you out of these wet things...'
Jessi suddenly grabbed his hands!
'Lord Roxton...'
Roxton smiled.
'How many times have I told you to call me John?'
Jessi couldn't even smile. Roxton was clearly worried.
'What? What is it, Jessi?'
Jessi swallowed hard. 'The police! The police from Scotland Yard were looking for George!'
Roxton sat down beside her and squeezed her hands. He rubbed them.
'Calm down and tell me what this is all about?'
Jessi squeezed his hands. 'They came to the house...two of them...George was not home, thank God! They said they think he's involved in those two murders!'
Roxton squinted at her. He kept his voice low. 'Jessi...I don't have any idea what you are talking about. What murders?'
Jessi sucked in a breath. 'I'm sorry...with all that you've had to deal with, you probably didn't know. Two people...a man and a woman, were killed down by some docks or something...I don't know the whole story. They think that George knows who the killer is!'
Now Roxton was more confused than ever!
'Jessi, why do they think that?'
Tears began to run down her face. 'Because the men said that they know that the killer is some kind of ape or animal. They think that when George returned from the plateau the second time...'
'The rescue expedition?' Roxton asked.
Jessi nodded. 'Yes! They think either he brought something back or invented something or....'
'Or what, Jessi?'
Jessi bit her lip.
'I can't help if you don't tell me everything.'
Jessi closed her eyes, then opened them.
'They think that George himself may be this ape killer. That something happened to him during those three years! John, they hinted that if it turned out to not be him, that the killer is probably one of you!'
John let go of her hands and stood up.
'One of us?' he repeated.
Jessi stood up. 'John please! Help my husband! I just got him back!'
Roxton put his arms around her. He had once told George Challenger he would follow him into hell. He thought he had already done that. It looks as if he was wrong.
Next Part: The Lost World: Beyond The Plateau