A Death in the Family

Epilogue

Suri sat in the center of her dojo, as she did most mornings; meditating and enjoying a cup of chi tea. The smell of ionized air from an early morning thunder shower filled the room, and the gentle sound of the light rain only amplified the serenity of the peaceful dojo. As she finished the last sip of her tea, she heard light footsteps, the removal of shoes, and finally the sound of a person sitting down across from her. The corners of her lips curved into a slight smile. "Good morning, Ms. McAllister."

"Good morning, Knight Inspector. And how did you know it was me?" Her voice was soft and smooth, with just a touch of sarcasm.

"You alternate between the same two scents of body wash, and as you walk, you tend to favor your left foot due to a gymnastics injury from school."

Michelle was slightly taken aback. "Oh, I guess I never realized..."

Suri opened one eye. "You are also the only other person with a key."

Michelle laughed. "Ma'am, may I ask...?"

"You may, but we would be committing treason."

Michelle mad a mock pouty face. "Please?"

Suri smiled. "Elementary, my dear. From the moment you told me that a gun was involved, I immediately leaned toward a high level suspect. As we continued to investigate, my original theory only grew stronger. But it was my interview with Princess Sarah that confirmed my hypothesis. She was obviously distraught, but I am well versed in the reading of human body language, and she gave me no indication that she coveted the throne. She then told me that her mother had already discussed the possibility of succession; which should have been a conversation saved for after the mourning of Frederick."

"So, why not confront the Queen; or accuse her directly?"

"Had I accused the Queen in open court, I would have been in chains before I could finish my opening statements. I had to perpetuate the illusion that I could prove my case against Sarah, therefore forcing the Queen to show her hand, as it were. She had orchestrated this entire scheme to elevate her daughter to the throne; there was no way she would allow me to de-rail that plan.

"I now understand that you pushed me away to protect me, but you still took a huge risk. What if you were wrong?"

Suri looked almost insulted. "My dear Michelle, I am never wrong."

Michelle stood. "Well, you need to get dressed. We have a coronation to attend."

Suri remained seated in her cross legged position. "I accused the Princess of murder and unseated her mother; I highly doubt that I am invited."

"Nonsense. Come along; be my date."

"Very well," Suri replied standing. "Oh, and Ms. McAllister?"

"Yes, Knight Inspector?"

"I am going to change now."

-fin-