Of Gold and Sapphires

Chapter 6: The Green Dragon

The Green Dragon exuded a warm and welcoming atmosphere. There was a buzz of excitement and curiosity about the place as news surrounding the body's discovery rapidly spread around the town. Helen got the impression that little happened in the area apart from the regular weddings, funerals, and the occasional beer festival. Given the recent media coverage concerning the initial investigation, the locals seemed to be enjoying the attention. "It's all good for business!" jeered the landlord as he served Helen a glass of rose wine.

"So how certain are you that our skeleton is female H?" said John, one of the more senior and outspoken members of the team. He liked to tease and undermine her in front of the others.

"About ninety per cent certain Jon. I've seen many female skeletons, and even though we don't have a complete set, you can tell a huge amount from the shape and structure of certain bones. If I'm wrong, then she's the most feminine-looking man I've ever seen. In the ground anyway."

"So, either way, definitely your area of expertise, H?!"

Jon was rewarded with a few sniggers with that remark. She let his crude, immature humour wash over her. They both knew that his pride was still hurting from her rejection of him six months ago. Despite the excitement and success of the past few days, it was all beginning to catch up with them now. She'd have one last drink before calling it a night and letting the younger ones do the partying.

"So, what do you think of him then? Quiet yet charming guy, right?"

"Yeah, OK, OK, I admit I was wrong about Jake. I'm only slightly envious now." Maria stuck her tongue out at Sophie, giggling in a slightly drunken manner.

"I'm glad we came here, Soph. It's a nice relaxing place and the drinks aren't too expensive. Plus, I don't think many blokes are going to pester us tonight, and we'll be left in peace. It's beginning to get on my nerves, " quipped Maria.

"I agree with you Maz it's a lovely place and one to try for the future. Try not to worry about guys chatting us up too much. Even if they're complete idiots, at least it's an ego boost."

"I know I'm sweating the small stuff, but it just becomes.... annoying sometimes. I just want to spend time with you, Soph, that's all."

There was a lull in the conversation as both girls scanned their surroundings. The Green Dragon's clientele was a broad mixture of young and old of both sexes. Men in their thirties and forties stood by the bar, having a pint after a long day at the office; debating the football results, and the latest political scandals. Older retired couples chatted amicably over freshly prepared pub food and glasses of red wine. Boys in their late teens surrounded the gambling machines, competing with each other over drinking games and sometimes pausing to see if any younger women were available to try their luck with. Further along the main bar, Sophie thought she spied someone familiar.

"Hey Maz, I think that's the woman I saw on the TV earlier. She's the forensic scientist."

"Really? Maybe you should try and talk to her. I know how much you love forensics, Soph."

"Yeah, you're right. I'd love to try and get her perspective on things. You know, like a journalist, maybe. Plus, I'll get us some more drinks too."

"Go on Soph, if the woman's the real deal, she could give you some priceless advice. Besides, I need to go for a pee, so now's your perfect chance."

Taking some deep breaths and comforted by Maria's words, Sophie drained the rest of her cocktail and apprehensively approached the forensic scientist.

"Erm... Hi... sorry to disturb you.... but weren't you on the TV earlier? I mean... being interviewed with the police officer?"