"Yes, Mr. Hamilton, yes," Lovat says, interrupting yet again. "But let us not forget that age sometimes dims the mind that hopes to recall. Then what is left, eh? Let us not forget that. At the very least. Or my manners, which I have clearly forgot in my struggle with the wild here in my hands. I hope you will except my apologies. I sometimes am quite lost in my garden sanctuary."

Duncan's silent nod affirms an understanding and acceptance. But Dr. Gray sees fit to elaborate further, as if adding to some intellectual observation he wants others to know he is making. "It's his Lordships' own cathedral," he says.

Lovat takes Duncan by the arm in a familiar manner, that at once seems comforting. And the very next slippery, obscene. Duncan can feel the bony fingers coiling tightly around his biceps. Like a clawed warning. It is clearly uncomfortable.

"Yes...well, as you can plainly discern, I am well acquainted with yourself, and might I add the mission you have rightly taken on for your sponsor," Lovat says. Duncan cautiously listening to every turn of phrase. Every glance of eye, hoping to detect a deeper or hidden meaning. A veiled threat.

"There are no objections then for some questions?" Duncan asks humbly, fitting the position and situation. Though no matter what answer the old lord gives, he knows it will be one without fear of discovery. And that too unsettles him.

"Good God, no. No, indeed. And welcomed. Welcomed my friend, if, if we can conduct them over some especially fine claret and a warm meal," Lovat responds warmly.

"To be sure, your Lordship. We are at your convenience."

Lovat smiles. "And my pleasure my boy, my pleasure. It's not often we have new guests to our small part of the world here."

"None that stay for long that is," the dark doctor adds. Duncan clearly begins to see what is at work here between these two. Could they be so ignorant of human nature, Duncan wonders, that they would think that none would see the obviousness of the game they play? Or is it they are so secure in themselves and their positions that they truly fear for nothing. Dangerous men indeed.

"And you'll tell us of the wars and your travels sir, and I will tell you what I can. Yes, and I hope we may enjoy the company of such a noble warrior..." Lovat says, then pauses as their walk about the garden has brought them in sight of Elspeth at the carriage.. "...and his lovely lady," Lovat continues with a smile. "For as long as you feel the need to stay."

Dr. Gray's eyes glare like marble. And Lovat notices the weakness. And smiles. "Now, to some fine drink and tales of adventure. That is what we wish for tonight. Eh?" Lovat says as they now head towards the door to the great house. Two servants open wide the doors, revealing nothing. Nothing but a black hole. Not a glimpse of light or furniture, or life or hope. Darkness. The group steps up towards this gaping maw and enters. Swallowed whole, Duncan feels as he takes Elspeth's hand. Shivering as it grips, cold and clammy and tight in his fist.