In Sheep's Clothing/Transcript

The following is a transcript of Episode 4: In Sheep's Clothing of Telltale Games' The Wolf Among Us.

Bigby's Apartment
Bigby Wolf is sitting on the chair in his living room. He sees a trail of blood on the floor, then looks up to see Bloody Mary wielding the Woodsman's axe.

Mary: See you around.

Mary brings the axe down on Bigby. He wakes up from the nightmare, still in his sofa in his apartment. Swineheart is removing the bullets from his injuries. Snow White is standing nearby.

Bigby's Apartment The Woodland Building Early Morning

Swineheart: Hollow-point bullets are a nasty business. The silver slug deformed and shredded on impact.

Snow: He'll be okay, though...

Swineheart: Mm?

Snow: He'll be okay?

Swineheart: His internal organs are positively riddled. If I don't extract every single scrap of silver...he's liable to suffer some long-term toxicosis...

Bigby groans and sits up.

Swineheart: Easy there. Try not to move.

Bigby coughs and spits up blood.

Snow: Bigby...

Bigby inhales sharply, looking at the bone protruding from his arm.

Swineheart: We can't keep meeting this way, old boy... I'd figured I'd be done before you were conscious. But there's little I can do for the pain. Just stay still and let me finish.

What happened to me?=

Bigby: What... what happened to me?

Snow: There was--

Swineheart: You got lucky, and found yourself in the care of a most skillful surgeon. Me.


 * -|My arm!=

Bigby: My arm...

Swineheart: Yes, very ugly. But not life-threatening. I can't say the same for these bullets peppered throughout your vital organs.


 * -|Am I going to be ok?=

Bigby: Swineheart... How bad is it?

Swineheart: Well, not the worst I've seen, but damn near it. I must say...you're testing even my skills here.



Bigby says nothing.

Swineheart extracts a piece of the silver bullet and drops it into a cup. Bigby lifts his injured arm to examine it.

Snow: Please, Bigby, don't move it. Doctor...

Swineheart: Look, I'm a bit engaged saving his life at the moment...but if the fractured extremity concerns him that much, he can set it himself.

Set bone=

Bigby starts to move his arm with his other hand, but stops due to the pain. He picks it back up and sets his bone back in place, his eyes briefly turning yellow.

Swineheart: Hm. Not bad. That'll do, I suppose.


 * -|Do nothing=

Swineheart: For heaven's sake...

Swineheart sets the bone back in place, Bigby's eyes briefly turning yellow.

Swineheart: See, now? That wasn't so difficult, was it? That'll do. You're probably better off. This way, I won't have to reset it later.

Colin walks up to the group.

Swineheart: He's lucky to be alive. And he won't be next time if he keeps going like this. He didn't listen to me before. Maybe he'll listen to you.

Snow: I don't know about that...

Swineheart: Well, he should. There are limits to what even I can do.

I can hear you...=

Bigby: You know... I can hear you...

Swineheart: Quiet. Just relax.


 * -|This is the job.=

Bigby: This...is the job...


 * -|You think I wanted this?=

Bigby: It's not like I...asked for this shit to happen.

Swineheart: Yes, but it's not like you actively discouraged it, either.



Bigby says nothing.

Snow leans closer to Bigby with concern.

Swineheart: Excuse me, Miss White, but...perhaps it'd be better if you gave me a few minutes to finish with him.

Snow: I--I think I should stay. At least until he's...out of the woods.

Swineheart: Believe me, he couldn't be in better hands. And I need the space to work, so... If you wouldn't mind... We'd appreciate the headroom.

Stick around, alright?=

Bigby: Stick around, alright? I don't know if I trust this guy...

Swineheart: Oh, please. I could do this with my optic nerves severed.


 * -|I'll be fine.=

Bigby: Don't worry, Snow. I'll be okay.


 * -|Don't look Snow.=

Bigby: I'd, uh...I'd prefer you don't watch this, anyway.



Bigby says nothing.

Swineheart: We'll be done in a moment, just please...give us the time.

Snow walks away and sits down at the table in the dining room.

Colin: Hey, Doc? How much longer?

Snow: Colin, leave him be.

Swineheart: It's finished when it's finished.

Colin: 'Cause I once watched a vet sew a turtle together in ten minutes flat.

Snow: Colin, you're not even supposed to be here right now.

Colin: Oh, really? Where am I "supposed" to be? I'm here to take care of my friend.

Snow: With what? Your hooves?

Colin: Hey, listen, lady...

Swineheart: Please keep it down back there, thank you...

Don't distract the doctor...=

Bigby: Could you please not distract the doctor while he has my chest cut open?

Swineheart: Yes, that would be helpful.


 * -|Colin, shut up.=

Bigby: Colin...shut the hell up, will ya?

Swineheart: Yes, that would be helpful.


 * -|I need quiet!=

Bigby: Could I get some quiet in here?

Swineheart: Yes, that would be helpful.

Snow: Sorry.



Bigby says nothing.

Swineheart extracts the last fragment of the bullet.

Swineheart: There. All done.

Bigby: Great.

Swineheart bandages Bigby's wounds.

Swineheart: This isn't a habit you should keep to, having visits with me. And, well...this time... This time was no joke. Eat as many metal shellings as you see fit, but take just one more silver round near your heart...and the only place I'll be visiting you is the morgue. Miss White. He'll be fine for light duty...IF he can figure out what that means.

Swineheart packs up his medical supplies.

Snow: He knows what it means. It's just been...an unusual couple of days...

Swineheart: I know, but please, don't give him the excuse. His body will eventually give out. Take care of him. Please.

Snow: I will. He'll need rest, I assume.

Swineheart: Sleep, mostly. Just keep watch... And make sure he doesn't get into further altercations.

I don't need a babysitter.=

Bigby: I don't need a babysitter. I can look after myself.

Swineheart: Clearly.


 * -|She has enough on her plate.=

Bigby: Snow has enough to deal with, Swineheart. I can take care of myself.

Swineheart: Clearly.


 * -|I'm right here.=

(If Bigby didn't say he could hear them.)

Bigby: I'm right here, guys, c'mon...


 * -|I can STILL hear you.=

(If Bigby said he could hear them previously.)

Bigby: I can still hear you.



Snow: I'll try.

Swineheart: Anyways... "Guard against", as they say. Miss White. Sheriff... Colin.

Colin: Swiney.

Swineheart leaves the apartment. Bigby enters the kitchen; he takes a bottle out of the fridge and starts drinking from it.

Snow: So...how do you, um, feel?

Colin: It's Bigby, Snow... He'll be okay. Hell, I've seen him take worse.

Snow: Not much worse...

As good as it gets.=

Bigby: About as good as could be expected. I think.

Colin: So...not well, then.


 * -|Like shit.=

Bigby: How do you think I feel? Like shit.

Colin: You should see how you look.


 * -|Don't worry about me.=

Bigby: Don't worry about me, alright? I'll be fine.

Colin: See? Strong as an oak, this guy.



Bigby says nothing.

(Said he was glad Snow wasn't dead in Smoke & Mirrors)=

Snow: I'm glad you're not dead.


 * -|(Said anything else)=

Snow: You had us... You had us worried there for a while.

Snow: You, uh, you stopped breathing, you know...when you passed out or...or died...I guess.

Snow touches Bigby's bandaged arm.

Snow: It...um...it kind of scared the hell out of me. I've never seen you like that. And when Swineheart arrived... You know him, he's never worried, and even he thought you were... I don't know, it was just...awful.

I don't die easy.=

Bigby: I'm pretty hard to kill.


 * -|I'm here for you.=

Bigby: Snow... I'd never leave you.


 * -|You were really worried?=

Bigby: You were really worried about me?



Bigby says nothing.

Colin: Yeah, you were really fucked up, man. You looked like when you take an action figure and bend its limbs the wrong way...

Snow: Colin...

Bigby and Snow leave the kitchen.

Colin: I'm just sayin', I was worried about him, is all. The guy hasn't had a night's rest in days...

Snow: We'll all get some rest when this whole thing is done.

Colin: What "whole thing"? What's even happenin' out there? I mean, do you guys have like a plan or somethin'...?

Bigby opens the closet and puts on his shirt and tie.

Colin: And who should I be asking? Should I be worried about the Crooked Man taking over? Or is Crane still the thing?

We need to get Crane.=

Bigby: Crane is still our focus. I just can't forget everything he's done, I don't care if he has "problems" with the Crooked Man...

Snow: Ichabod's gone, it's over for him. He's not coming back. It's not about Crane anymore, Bigby.


 * -|This is a bigger thing now.=

Bigby: The Crooked Man, Bloody Mary, the Tweedles... This is bigger than I what I thought it was.

Snow: Yeah...


 * -|Snow can decide what's best.=

Bigby: Snow's the boss. She'll know what's best for the community.

Snow: Thanks.



Bigby says nothing.

Snow: The Crooked Man came out of the shadows for a reason... For him to attack us so blatantly like that...he either feels invincible or desperate.

Colin: Well, if those are my two options... I don't think I'd pick desperate.

Snow: What do you mean?

Colin: You traded Crane. To save Bigby. I'm just sayin'...that's not exactly somethin' you do when you're playin' with house money.

Snow: So he called my bluff. It's not like I'm gonna let Bloody Mary just murder--it was a split-second decision and I don't care how it looked. I'd make it again and twice on a Sunday.

Colin: Alright, I'm not faultin' ya.

Thanks for saving me, Snow.=

Bigby: Yeah, uh... Thanks, Snow. For all that back there.

Snow: No problem.

Colin: "Thanks"? You're not pissed that Crane's flown the coop? Or that the Crooked Man thinks he's got Snow under his thumb?

Snow: We're all mad about it, Colin... But it's not like we had a strong choice in the matter.


 * -|It wasn't your fight to surrender.=

Bigby: Yeah, about that... It wasn't your fight to surrender.

Snow: And what the hell does that mean?

Bigby: It means that I was the one getting shot to shit, so I'm the one that gets to raise the white flag. And only when I want to raise it. Look, Snow, I could've--

Snow will remember that.

Snow: Could have done what? Gotten yourself killed? Let Crane get away anyway? It was the only option.


 * -|We looked weak.=

Bigby: Yeah, about that... Giving up Crane to save my skin really made us look weak...

Snow will remember that.

Snow: THAT made us look weak? Oh, but not Mary shooting you and holding an axe to your big head?

Bigby: Look, I'm not saying it was a good day, just that we could've done without all the, uh..."bargaining" at the end. The Crooked Man's gonna think--

Snow: I don't care what he thinks. It was the only option.



Snow: What?

Bigby: I didn't say anything.

Snow: Look, I don't care... It was the only option.

Snow: All I care about right now is...just what does the Crooked Man want out of this? I thought he was just a...loan shark. But clearly, he's operating in other circles. It can't just be about Crane, right? Getting him out of town? Is this all about the murders? Crane can't be useful to him anymore... So what could this have to do with Faith and Lily? How long has this stuff been going on?

The victims are my concern.=

Bigby: This is about those girls. And it'll always be about those girls. Nothing will change that.

Snow: We'll see...


 * -|Crane was used.=

Bigby: Crane was a puppet, and the Crooked Man worked the strings. This is all about control of Fabletown.

Snow: But then what do prostitutes have to do with it? Lily...and Faith?

Bigby: I don't know how it all works out yet, but I know it does...somehow.


 * -|They made the wrong enemy.=

Bigby: You know, I couldn't really give a shit what they want out of this. They just made the wrong fuckin' enemy.

Bigby gasps in pain and grabs his injured side.

Snow: Remember what Swineheart said, okay?



Colin: From the looks of things it's been going on for quite a while.

Snow: The Crooked Man...declared war against us last night. At least that's what I thought, when it happened. But now I see this war has been going on for years. We just haven't noticed it, because our way of doing things is broken. We need to do things the right way.

Colin: What does that mean? The "right way"?

Snow: What do you think I mean?

Colin: I don't know, but it suspiciously sounds like "your way". Bigby's the one on the front lines. You can't give him a leash, he doesn't work that way.

Snow: A little restraint and thought behind things will never hurt anyone, Colin.

We're doing our best here.=

Bigby: Look, I know things haven't gone great recently, but...we're still doing our best.

Snow: That's not good enough.


 * -|What do you mean?=

Bigby: Yeah, wait, what do you mean? What is this "right way"?

Snow: We haven't been doing a good job. You and I.


 * -|I can only do things MY way.=

Bigby: I can only do things the way I do 'em.

Snow: And where has that left us so far?

Bigby: Excuse me, but it's left us with a name, maybe the name, the Crooked Man.

Snow: That's not good enough.



Bigby says nothing.

Snow: So...starting now...we do everything cut and dried, by the book, straight as an arrow.

Colin: Pure as driven snow...

Snow: I'm not saying I'm the arbiter of--

Colin: Sure you're not.

Bigby takes a seat next to the dining table.

Snow: This town has enough monsters. What happened last night...what you turned into...it can't happen again.

Colin: We need monsters to fight monsters.

Snow: Colin, if I really believed that we needed him to lose his flippin' mind at a moment's notice... Then that would mean I'd lost all faith in our ability to help this town. Just let that side of you be done, okay? Be done and buried and we can all move on.

I had no other choice!=

Bigby: We were under attack, Snow. What did you expect me to do?

Snow: There are degrees.

Bigby: Degrees? I only ever do what's necessary.

Snow: Really?


 * -|Easy for you to say.=

Bigby: I'm sure from your vantage point, it's extraordinarily easy to judge me.

Snow: Bigby...

Bigby: But you sit behind a desk...all day...and only tonight did you see what it's like to be pushed into a corner all the time just for doing your job.

Snow will remember that.

Snow: You think I don't know what it's like to have my life in danger? To not be pushed to do things... I know what it's like, and I know what it's like to lie to yourself...to justify what you've done. So don't talk to me like I'm other people.


 * -|You're right Snow.=

Bigby: I'll do better. We'll do better. We have to be better than them, or...what's the point?

Snow will remember that.

Snow: Right, exactly. Thank you. Look, I'm sorry that I have to bring all this up, but...I think it's important.



Snow noticed that.

Snow: Look, Bigby, I care about how this is done just as much as I care about it getting done.

Colin: So for that you wanna give him a handicap? Like the bad guys will worry if shit gets sloppy? Everybody wants Bigby to smile and shave and take a shower now and then... Hell, I'm practically the president of the "Bigby, Don't Be Such A Dick" Club... But this is the wrong fucking time to put shackles on him.

Colin, I can defend myself.=

Bigby: Relax, Colin. I can speak for myself, okay?


 * -|Thanks, Colin.=

Bigby: Well, at least someone understands. Thanks, Colin.

Colin smiles.


 * -|My work isn't sloppy.=

Bigby: Hold on, who says I'm sloppy? I always do what I do for a reason.

Snow: And it's all turned out how you planned?



Bigby says nothing.

Colin: He'll get the job done. Just let him do it.

Snow: I'm going to--I'm going to let you "do it", okay? It's just that...now that I'm deputy mayor, I need your respect. And this situation...has to end.

Colin: What situation?

Snow: All unglamoured Fables--starting today--have to go and stay at the Farm?

Colin: Oh, give me a fuckin' break! Are you gonna let her talk to me like that?

Snow: It's been the rule for a reason, Colin... And Bigby knows it's for the best of the town. It keeps everybody out of trouble.

Colin: And what if a Mundy does see me, huh? I'm a pig, not a mouse with a hat and a cane! They know what a pig is! It's not the end of the world!

Calm down everybody.=

Bigby: Look, everyone just calm down, alright?

Snow: I'm perfectly calm.

Colin: I'm not! Tell me right now: what's it gonna be, Bigby?


 * -|Snow's in charge.=

Bigby: If Snow says that's the way it's gotta be, that's the way it's gotta be.

Colin will remember that...

Colin: What? Are you kiddin' me?

Snow: If you would simply get a glamour...

Colin: "Get a glamour"? With what money? You think I can work? I don't even have thumbs.


 * -|I'm not enforcing that.=

Bigby: That's not gonna happen.

Snow will remember that.

Snow: Yes, it will.

Bigby: It's an impossible rule to enforce, Snow. You really expect to round up every talking cat and raven in town?

Snow: There's not that many stragglers left...except the one or two you make excuses for.



Colin will remember that...

Colin: Thanks for the support.

The phone rings, and Snow answers it.

Snow: Wolf's residence.

Colin: That's rude.

Snow: Oh, Bufkin, what is it? Okay, I'll let him know. Thanks. (hangs up) Guess who's waiting in your office right now? (Bigby shrugs) Nerissa.

Bigby: Nerissa?

Colin: That broad from the Pudding N' Pie?

Snow: Yes. Apparently she told Bufkin that she has something she needs to talk to you about...but that she'll only tell you. And what do you think that could be?

Colin: Awwww, Bigby's got an admirer. You always do well with the, uh, disenfranchised. Something about your prickly demeanor attracts them like a moth to a flame.

Maybe it's about the fight?=

Bigby: She probably just wants to talk about last night. The whole thing at the Pudding N' Pie.

Snow: Maybe.


 * -|She probably knows something.=

Bigby: She knows something... She's helped me a little with the case, maybe she has something else.

Snow: Maybe she does.


 * -|No idea.=

Bigby: I haven't the slightest.

Snow: Okay.



Bigby says nothing.

Snow: I should get back to the Business Office, I've left Bufkin alone for too long taking calls. And I should probably change out of these clothes. Consider the discussion tabled, but not over. Let me know when you're done with Nerissa.

Colin: Aye aye, Captain.

Snow leaves the apartment.

Colin: She's a piece of work. Hey, you're not really gonna send me to The Farm, are ya? I mean... She seemed real serious about it. But I can still hang out here... Right?

I wouldn't do that to you.=

Bigby: Look, uh, maybe a few will get sent up, but you're my friend, Colin. I wouldn't do that to you. Don't worry about it.

Colin: Thanks, Bigby.

You chose close friendship over the rules.


 * -|Snow will change her mind.=

Bigby: I don't know... Snow will come around. She's just... The Crane thing hit her hard, and...she doesn't really know who her friends are right now.

Colin: Oh, okay. I get it.

Bigby: Don't worry about it.

Colin will remember that...

Colin: Thanks, Bigby.


 * -|Sorry. Rules are rules.=

Bigby: The rules are the rules. I don't get to make 'em, I just enforce 'em.

Colin: Bull. Shit. You give favors all the time, I know you do.

Bigby: Yeah, well, I think I ran out.

You chose to enforce the rules.



Colin: After everything we fuckin' been through...you don't have the nerve to give me a straight answer.

Colin will remember that...

Bigby leaves the apartment. If Bigby lets Colin stay, he will watch Bigby leave.

Bigby's Office
Bigby opens the door to his office, where Nerissa is waiting.

Bigby's Office The Woodland Building Morning

Nerissa: Hi, Sheriff.

Bigby enters the office and closes the door.

Bigby: Hi, Nerissa. Have a seat.

Bigby and Nerissa sit down.

Nerissa: I, um... Are you okay? You didn't look good last night. I wasn't sure you'd be...you know, around...if I came by.

Don't worry about me.=

Bigby: I'm fine. Don't worry about me.


 * -|I've been better.=

Bigby: Let's just say I've been better.


 * -|You should see the other guys.=

Bigby: Don't be fooled by...this... I didn't get the worst of it.



Bigby says nothing.

Bigby coughs. He puts a cigarette in his mouth, then offers the pack to Nerissa.

Nerissa: Huff 'n' Puffs? Not many people smoke those.

Nerissa takes out a cigarette from her own pack, and Bigby lights both of theirs.

Nerissa: Thanks.

What did Crane want with you?=

Bigby: So what was that back there with Crane? He wanted you to tell me something. You know, it's not too late to talk.


 * -|Let's hear it.=

Bigby: You can start talking.


 * -|So what brings you here?=

Bigby: So what is it you wanted to talk to me about? I know what you did for me, sending me to the Open Arms. And I think you want to help me again.



Bigby says nothing.

Nerissa: There's not a lot that I can talk about. You know that.

Bigby: So that spell Crane was trying to break... It's not just while you're at work, huh?

Nerissa: What I mean is... I don't want to waste your time. But I don't want you wasting your own time, either.

Bigby: Back at the dressing room--at the Pudding 'n Pie--I told you what I was looking for. And you found a way to tell me. You sent me to the Open Arms. Maybe that will work again?

Nerissa: You can try. I just... Go ahead. It...might work.

You have more on Crane?=

Bigby: Is there more to this business with Crane? You gave me the key to room 204. You put me on to Crane. Is there something I'm missing here?

Nerissa: These lips are sealed. If I could answer you just like that... I wouldn't have had to make this appointment with you.

Bigby: No, I guess not.


 * -|Is this about the Crooked Man?=

Bigby: You're here because the Crooked Man just sent Crane to the bottom of my list of worries. And you have something you want to say about that, right?

Nerissa: These lips are sealed. If I could answer you just like that... I wouldn't have had to make this appointment with you.

Bigby: No, I guess not.


 * -|Was Crane set up?=

Bigby: Crane wasn't the murderer. The Open Arms was a setup. And you sent me there. Was there someone else you wanted me to find there?

Nerissa: These lips are sealed. If I could answer you just like that... I wouldn't have had to make this appointment with you.

Bigby: No, I guess not.



Nerissa: This isn't gonna work if you don't ask anything. Then again, who knows if it'll work anyway...

Nerissa: Sometimes...we have to find our way through life on our own. Grasping and fumbling in the dark. I...I used to have friends. To help me find my way. But now...they're gone. And I don't know what to do. Is this making any sense? I'm not sure how I can--

Is this about Faith and Lily?=

Bigby: Are you trying to say something about Faith and Lily?


 * -|You can trust me.=

Bigby: Are you saying you need a friend right now? You can trust me.


 * -|Where's this going?=

Bigby: I'm sorry, but...is this going somewhere?



Bigby says nothing.

(Didn't ask where it was going)=

Nerissa: What I'm saying is friends matter. And I...I don't have any left. So I hope you're looking after yours. Are you? Look around you.

Nerissa: I'm sorry. I thought I could do this. I need you to know... I want to help, but... But...

Take your time.=

Bigby: It's okay. Take your time.


 * -|Your lips are sealed.=

Bigby: But your lips are sealed.


 * -|Can't you just talk?=

Bigby: Come on. Just talk...



Nerissa noticed that.

Nerissa: I'm...sorry if I'm wasting your time. I thought I knew how to say it...

Bigby: Ribbons... Faith wore one, too.

Nerissa: Do you like it? Hm? Do you?

It's a tool of control.=

(If Bigby didn't say Faith's ribbon was beautiful.)

Bigby: How can I? It's a tool to keep you stuck in that life. Subservient...

Nerissa will remember that.


 * -|It's beautiful.=

(If Bigby said the same thing to Faith.)

Bigby: It was... It is beautiful.


 * -|It's not about how it looks.=

Bigby: It's not how it looks that concerns me. It's what it does.


 * -|I'm trying to help you.=

Bigby: I'm trying to help. I just don't know what I can do...



Bigby says nothing.

Bigby: That's why you can't tell me anything... It's the ribbon, isn't it?

Bigby puts out his cigarette and walks up to Nerissa.

Can't we just... take the ribbon off?=

Bigby: Can't we just...take the ribbon off?

Bigby reaches toward the ribbon, but Nerissa jumps back, knocking over the chair.

Nerissa: No! These lips are sealed!

Bigby: What?

Nerissa: You can't--just stay back! You can't do that.

Bigby: Slow down. It's alright. I'm not gonna do anything.

Nerissa: Please...don't...

Nerissa will remember that.

Bigby sets Nerissa's chair upright and she sits back down.


 * -|Any way to break the spell?=

Bigby: That spell Crane talked about... Is there any way to break it? Is there something I can do about it?

Bigby reaches toward the ribbon, but Nerissa jumps back, knocking over the chair.

Nerissa: No! These lips are sealed!

Bigby: What?

Nerissa: You can't--just stay back! You can't do that.

Bigby: Slow down. It's alright. I'm not gonna do anything.

Nerissa: Please...don't...

Nerissa will remember that.

Bigby sets Nerissa's chair upright and she sits back down.


 * -|[Remove Ribbon]=

Bigby: You mind if I just...

Bigby reaches toward the ribbon, but Nerissa jumps back, knocking over the chair.

Nerissa: No! These lips are sealed!

Bigby: What?

Nerissa: You can't--just stay back! You can't do that.

Bigby: Slow down. It's alright. I'm not gonna do anything.

Nerissa: Please...don't...

Nerissa will remember that.

Bigby sets Nerissa's chair upright and she sits back down.



Nerissa: If you're thinking what I think you are...

Bigby: Okay. I get it...

Bigby sits down.

(Didn't remain silent)=

Bigby: So the ribbons...if you take them off....

I'll fix this.=

Bigby: I don't know how, but I'm going to fix this. If you could just point me in the right direction, I swear, I will fix this.

Nerissa holds Bigby's hand.

Nerissa will remember that.


 * -|I'm sorry.=

Bigby: Sorry. I...wish I could do something.

Nerissa holds Bigby's hand.

Nerissa will remember that.


 * -|[Comfort her]=

Bigby puts his hand on Nerissa's shoulder.

Nerissa will remember that...



Nerissa holds Bigby's hand.

There is a knock at the door, and Nerissa jumps up.

Nerissa: If anyone finds out I came here...

Bigby: That's probably Snow.

As Bigby walks past Nerissa, she grabs his wrist, stopping him.

Nerissa: Listen... Sheriff... Can you keep this conversation between us? I could be in a lot of...trouble. I shouldn't be talking to you. Please.

What are you afraid of?=

Bigby: What are you worried about?

Nerissa: Just...please don't say anything.


 * -|Sure thing.=

Bigby: I won't tell anyone, don't worry.

Nerissa: Thank you.


 * -|I have to tell Snow.=

Bigby: I'm gonna have to tell Snow. She has to know about the ribbons...

Nerissa: If you have to. Just...don't tell anyone else.



Nerissa: Just...please don't say anything.

Snow opens the door. Nerissa lets go of Bigby and sits back down.

Snow: Sorry, I just need to talk to the sheriff for a moment. Please excuse us.

Bigby: One minute.

Snow: I might have a new lead for you, but I don't know how solid it is. Beauty and Beast called the office just now. They said they wanted to talk to you about something. I wonder if they've heard about Crane...

Nerissa: Thank you for listening, Sheriff. You should go on to your next business. I don't think you'll be wasting your time.

Nerissa steps out of the office.

Snow: Uh, wait, you don't have to go...

Nerissa walks away.

Snow: That was...abrupt.

Bigby: It's...one way to send a message.

Snow: What did she tell you? I didn't mean to rush her out. Did you get anything from her?

Bigby takes a pack of cigarettes out of his desk.

She told me enough.=

Bigby: She told me enough. I think she told both of us with the way she just left.

Snow: Okay, then. Good work.


 * -|Look, I took care of it.=

Bigby: Don't worry. I handled it. She couldn't talk because of the magic. But we managed to understand each other. I did my job. My way. What did you expect?

Snow: Do you really want to know? Because you have given me reason to doubt you. Surely, even you can see that. And the past few days have been...trying.


 * -|Magic keeps her from talking.=

Bigby: She couldn't really say anything. The magic that Crane was talking about... It's in the ribbon.

Snow: And you can't take the ribbon off. Or...?

Bigby: It's how Faith and Lily died.

Bigby mimics being decapitated.

Snow: Okay, then. Good work.



Snow: Okay, then. Good work.

Bigby lights his cigarette.

Snow: So, about Beauty and Beast. Do you think there's something to it? Is this the right place to look? What could they know about the Crooked Man? Or do you think they just heard about last night... And they're scared about what's been going on?

They called for a reason.=

Bigby: Well, whatever it is, I'm sure they called for a reason. Suppose I better go check it out.

Bigby and Snow leave the office.

Snow: Hm... You know, Beauty came to me a while back... She was looking for...financial assistance. I told her there was nothing I could do, and...and she said that meant she'd have to go somewhere else. Bigby, you don't think she meant that she was going to go to the Crooked Man, do you?

Bigby: That would explain why they called.


 * -|Nerissa pointed us out there.=

Bigby: That's what Nerissa was doing. Telling us to go there. I think she made it as clear as she could have.

Bigby and Snow leave the office.

Snow: Hm... You know, Beauty came to me a while back... She was looking for...financial assistance. I told her there was nothing I could do, and...and she said that meant she'd have to go somewhere else. Bigby, you don't think she meant that she was going to go to the Crooked Man, do you?

Bigby: That would explain why they called.


 * -|Beauty got a loan from him.=

(If Bigby went after Dee.)

Bigby: Beauty told me she had to take out a loan from the Crooked Man. Seems like a pretty bad deal.

Snow: I can only imagine what they're thinking now.


 * -|It's worth looking into.=

(If Bigby went after the Woodsman.)

Bigby: Even if there isn't much to it, it's still our best lead. It's worth looking into.

Bigby and Snow leave the office.

Snow: Hm... You know, Beauty came to me a while back... She was looking for...financial assistance. I told her there was nothing I could do, and...and she said that meant she'd have to go somewhere else. Bigby, you don't think she meant that she was going to go to the Crooked Man, do you?

Bigby: That would explain why they called.



Snow: Well, I guess it's the best we've got.

Bigby and Snow leave the office.

Snow: Hm... You know, Beauty came to me a while back... She was looking for...financial assistance. I told her there was nothing I could do, and...and she said that meant she'd have to go somewhere else. Bigby, you don't think she meant that she was going to go to the Crooked Man, do you?

Bigby: That would explain why they called.

Bigby and Snow arrive at the elevator, and Snow presses the button.

Snow: We need to solve this before something else happens. Who knows what...

The elevator arrives, and Bigby steps inside.

Snow: I have...other matters to attend to.

Beauty and Beast's Apartment
Bigby leaves the elevator.

Beauty and Beast's Apartment The Woodland Building Noon

Beauty and Beast's Conversation

Beast: And you didn't want to tell me what you were into, either.

Beauty: With good reason. Look what happened.

Beast: So that's back on me now? I thought we agreed that was settled.

Beauty: You said it was settled. That doesn't mean I have to agree to it.

Beast: And when were you going to tell me? Or were you going to keep that a secret too?

Beauty: You know what it was. You know what was going on, Beast. I had to get a job, and you wouldn't have it. Don't make it into something it wasn't.

Beast: It's the principle of it.

Beauty: Don't act like you weren't keeping secrets too.

Beast: If you're going to bring up ancient history, I don't have to stand here and listen to it.

Beauty: Fine, go off in a huff. I'm--I'm through talking anyway.

Optional interaction: open door=

It's locked.

Bigby knocks on the door to the apartment.

(Kept Beauty's secret)=

Beast opens the door.

Beast: Oh. What do you want? Well? You're just going around, knocking on doors? Stirring the pot?


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty opens the door.

Beauty: Oh, it's you. What are you doing here? What's this about? Well? Nothing you want to say?

You called?=

Bigby: You called, right?


 * -|Snow sent me.=


 * -|Expecting someone else?=

Bigby: I'm sorry, were you expecting someone else?



Bigby says nothing.

Bigby: Listen, I've had a shitty night...

(Kept secret)=

Beast: You think you're the only one?


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty: Well, you're not the only one.

Bigby: And I really don't wanna deal with the runaround. Snow said you called and wanted to talk to me.

(Kept secret)=

Beast: Well, I didn't call. Must have been Beauty. She's been...surprising me a lot lately.

Bigby: Can I--

Beast: So have you, Bigby. Yet, with all the sneaking around and secrets, somehow, I'm still the bad guy in this. I've had to hear about it all night long from her.

Beauty: (from inside the apartment) Who is it? Who's there? Beast? Who's at the door?


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty: If someone called, it must have been Beast. I certainly didn't.

Bigby: Okay, I--

Beauty: You know, if you had just kept your mouth shut about me, Beast wouldn't have lost his head over at the Open Arms. He never would have even found the place. And I wouldn't have had to spend the night defending myself for "keeping secrets" with Bigby Wolf. I lost my job because of you. I needed that.

Beast: (from inside the apartment) Who's there? Beauty? Who is it? Who's at the door?

Invite me in?=

Bigby: Are you gonna let me in or what?


 * -|Step aside.=

Bigby: Look, I'm coming in. So, uh...let's not get into busting down doors today, alright?


 * -|Can I talk to Beauty?=

(If Bigby kept the secret.)

Bigby: If you don't wanna talk, can you just get Beauty for me?

Beast: I don't know. Is it safe to turn my back?


 * -|Can I talk to Beast?=

(If Bigby told Beast.)

Bigby: If you don't wanna talk, can you just get Beast for me?

Beauty: I don't know. Talking has a way of escalating with you.



Beauty/Beast opens the door, where the other person is standing inside.

(Kept secret)=

Beast: It's your pal, Bigby.

Beauty: Hi, Bigby. Please excuse us for just a minute?

Beauty walks over to Beast.

Beauty: Can I talk to you in private?

Beast: Yes. Let's.


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty: Bigby's here.

Beast: Hi, Bigby. Can you give us a minute?

Beast walks over to Beauty.

Beast: A word in private?

Beauty: I think that's a good idea.

Beauty and Beast walk into a different room and close the door. Bigby enters the apartment.

Bigby: Hm. I guess I really do have the smallest apartment in the Woodlands.

Optional interactions=

Beauty and Beast's Conversation

(Kept secret)=

Beauty: I can already tell you're going to make a problem out of this.

Beast: What's he doing here? We don't need to bring him into this.

Beauty: Beast!

Beast: I just don't think we can trust him...not after the way he went behind my back. And then you run and call him again?

Beauty: Well, I trust him.

Beast: Of course you do. He was keeping secrets for you.

Beauty: It was one little thing. Do you wanna keep fighting about that? Or do you wanna try to sort this out?

Beast: All I'm saying is we can handle this on our own. You didn't have to bring him here.

Beauty: We're out of money. And answers. That's why I called. We'll finish this later. But we need to talk to Bigby.

Beast: Fine. If you wanna talk, we'll talk.


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beast: Now, Beauty, let's not make a problem out of this.

Beauty: What's he doing here? Do we really need to bring Bigby into this?

Beast: We talked about it already.

Beauty: But I...I just don't think he is going to improve our situation.

Beast: Well, that's what we're going to find out.

Beauty: I know you're going to disagree, but if he can't keep a little secret, how can we trust him with...this?

Beast: I trust him.

Beauty: Well, of course you do. Whatever. It's not just that. Trouble follows him around.

Beast: We're out of money and we're up against the wall here, okay?

TBC

Knock on door=

Bigby knocks on the door.

After their conversation ends or Bigby knocks on the door, Beauty and Beast return to the living room.

(Kept secret)=

Beauty: Sorry, it's been a long night.

Beast: Yeah, you know what they say. Centuries of marriage come with centuries of baggage.


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beast: Sorry, we've had a long night.

Beauty: Yeah. What's that you always say? Centuries of marriage come with centuries of baggage.

Bigby: I gotta say, your place... It looks, uh...expensive.

(Kept secret)=

Beast: What do you mean by that?

Beauty: Beast!

Beast: No, really, I wanna know. What are you trying to say, huh? Did you come to give us decorating tips?


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty: What's that supposed to mean?

Beast: Beauty!

Beauty: What? It's a fair question. He's the sheriff, not an interior decorator. So? What are you trying to say?

It's nice, that's all.=

Bigby: Nothing, it's...a nice place you got here.


 * -|Aren't you in debt?=

Bigby: I thought you were having money problems. But it doesn't look like you're suffering to me.


 * -|Why did you call?=

Bigby: You've lived here a long time, and you've never called me over. So what's this about?



(Bigby already knew about the loan)=

Bigby: Is this something about that loan you took out? From the Crooked Man?


 * -|(Snow told Bigby about the loan)=

Bigby: Snow told me you went to her for some...financial help. Did you end up going to the Crooked Man?

(Kept secret)=

Beauty: I didn't know what else to do, so--

Beast: We should deal with this on our own. Bigby's just going to complicate things.

Beauty: I called him here, and I want to see if he can help us out.


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beast: That's part of it, but--

Beauty: We can't bring him into this. He's just going to make things worse. He always does.

Beast: Well, he's here now, so let's see what he can do.

Beauty: Why are you being like this?

Beast: I'm just trying to do what's best for us. That's all I ever do.

I want to help you.=

Bigby: I'd like to help you, but I can't do anything if you don't tell me what's going on.


 * -|Don't waste my time.=

Bigby: Look, I'm not here to referee. You called me, okay? So cut the bullshit and quit wasting my time.


 * -|What kind of trouble are you in?=

Bigby: Well, what kind of trouble are you in? Either it's the money, or it's something else.



Bigby says nothing.

(Kept secret)=

Beast: I gotta know one thing, first... What if we did have something to say about the Crooked Man? What if we talk, and you don't get him and all this comes back on us? We'd be risking a lot. We've seen what happens when you cross the Crooked Man. And I don't know if it's worth it... If you can't give us certain...assurances...

Beauty: We're just looking for a little peace of mind in this.


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty: Just answer me this first... What if we did have some information on the Crooked Man? If we talk...we're putting ourselves at risk. Could you protect us? I've seen what happens when you cross him... Can you...

Beast: Can you promise you'll keep us safe if we talk?

If you're honest, I'll protect you.=

Bigby: I can protect you. But only if you tell me what I need to know. And that means details. No more stonewalling.

They will remember that.

Bigby: Then just tell me what's going on here.


 * -|Other people are in danger too.=

Bigby: You think you're the only ones in danger? If you have info on that crooked bastard, I need to hear it. Otherwise, I've got better things to do.

Bigby: Then tell me what the fuck is going on! You're in so much debt? Look around you. This isn't the way people short on cash live.


 * -|You might be next.=

Bigby: You are in danger. You two need to cooperate so I can get the Crooked Man off the street. You don't want to be next. But if you'd rather deal with this on your own...

They will remember that.

Bigby: Then tell me what the fuck is going on! You're in so much debt? Look around you. This isn't the way people short on cash live.



Beast: Bigby, don't you hear us? We're in danger here.

Bigby: Then just tell me what's going on here.

(Kept secret)=

Beast: Look, we're used to a certain kind of...lifestyle, okay? We couldn't just give that up.

Beauty: We never meant for it to get like this. It's just that...we had nowhere else to turn. And we got in over our heads.


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty: You get used to a certain...way of doing things, and...sometimes it just gets away from you.

Beast: I just wanted to give Beauty the kind of life she deserves. You understand that, don't you? And...

Beast: There's not a lot of work out there. Who would we be if we just lived like...

The phone rings for a few moments, then goes to the answering machine.

Beauty: (over recording) Hi there! You've reached Beauty...

Beast: (over recording) And Beast!

Beauty: (over recording) And we're out doing something fabulous.

(Kept secret)=

Beast: Uh, let me just, uh...


 * -|(Told Beast)=

Beauty: Maybe I should...

Beast: (over recording) A day at the beach?

Beauty: (over recording) Skiing the slopes? (laughs)

Beast: (over recording) And we can't come to the phone right now, so leave a message at the beep and we'll get back to you as soon as...

Can we finish?=

Bigby: Can we finish this conversation first?

Bigby: Come on.

Beauty and Beast laugh on the recording.

Beast: (over recording) Humanly possible.

Beauty and Beast: (over recording) Beeeep!

Caller: That fucking message. I'm gonna come down there and bash your heads in with that machine if I have to call again and hear that fucking message one more time! I've been doing this long enough to know that if you had the cash, you'd have paid by now. So consider yourselves outta warnings. It's time to start thinking about how else you can settle this. 'Cause next time, I'm making a house call.


 * -|Go ahead and get it.=

Bigby: Are you gonna get that?

Beast/Beauty picks up the phone and listens for a moment, then hangs up.

Bigby: What the fuck was that?

Bigby: Finally.


 * -|[Stop Beast] / [Stop Beauty]=

Bigby: Hey, we're not done here.

Bigby glares at him. Beauty and Beast laugh on the recording.

Beast: (over recording) Humanly possible.

Beauty and Beast: (over recording) Beeeep!

Caller: That fucking message. I'm gonna come down there and bash your heads in with that machine if I have to call again and hear that fucking message one more time! I've been doing this long enough to know that if you had the cash, you'd have paid by now. So consider yourselves outta warnings. It's time to start thinking about how else you can settle this. 'Cause next time, I'm making a house call.



Beast/Beauty picks up the phone and listens for a moment, then hangs up.

Bigby: What the fuck was that?

Bigby: Finally.

Bigby: All I care about is how can I find the Crooked Man? Who do I talk to? Where do I go?

Beauty and Beast hug each other.

Beauty: The Lucky Pawn. That's where I borrowed the money. The Crooked Man's behind that place. I'd overheard people talking to Jersey about loans before. So...when I needed money... That's where I went. I didn't know what to do.

Beast: You could have told me.

Beauty: You had enough on your plate.

Have you seen the Crooked Man?=

Bigby: Did you ever see the Crooked Man there? When you got your loan...or just shopping?

Beauty: No, never. But...come on...it's his place. And the Jersey Devil never lets you forget it.


 * -|Wait, who's Jersey?=

Bigby: Wait, who do you deal with?

Beauty: Jersey. You know, the Jersey Devil.

Bigby: Oh, yeah... That slimy prick... I didn't realize he was back on this side of the river.

Beauty: And those Tweedles were always going in and out, probably dropping off a loan payment they squeezed out of some poor Fable. But never the Crooked Man. Mainly it's just regular Fables.


 * -|What's really going on there?=

Bigby: Who gets loans at a pawn shop anyway? What's really going on at this place.

Beauty: The Crooked Man knows what people need to get by. So...he provides. Besides, it didn't seem like such a bad deal when Jersey Devil was explaining it.



Beauty: Besides, it didn't seem like such a bad deal when Jersey Devil was explaining it.

Beauty: I can see now that it was a mistake, but... I'm not the only one who goes there, y'know. I saw the Woodsman's axe there just the other day. It was in a display case.

Beast: I guess he's hit hard times, too. There's a lot of that going around. I can't imagine he has a lot of "marketable skills".

Beauty: Sometimes... Fables just don't have anywhere else to go.

Mary got the axe from there.=

Bigby: Fucking Bloody Mary must go through there. She had Woody's axe last night. Tried to chop my damn head off with it!


 * -|I only care about my investigation.=

Bigby: Look, you don't have to explain yourself to me. But I'm not going there for a shopping trip. This is murder and kidnapping we're talking about. And if the axe was there...so were the people behind all this. Anything else is just...background noise.


 * -|Why would you ever go there?=

Bigby: What the hell are you doing hanging out at a place like the Lucky Pawn, anyway?

Beauty: Sometimes Fables sell things they brought from the Homelands. Things you can't find anywhere else.

Bigby: You do know there's a difference between pawning something and selling it, don't you?

Beauty: I...I know that.

Bigby: You're buying a piece of someone else's misery...with money you don't have.

Beauty: Well, that's over now...



Bigby says nothing.

Beauty: Maybe if you go there you can...sort some things out.

Bigby: I guess I'll go check out the Lucky Pawn. If I can't track down the Crooked Man there, maybe I can make enough noise that the Crooked Man will come find me.

Beast: Hold on, Bigby, don't go there. Sounds like you're just going to get Beauty in trouble. And...

Beauty and Beast sit down on the couch.

Beast: You know that butcher shop? The Cut Above? It's the place on Tubman Street. Same block as the baker and the candlestick maker. Well, I've been delivering packages from there for a while. The thing is...it's for the Crooked Man. And...I don't think it's meat in the packages. You gotta understand, I needed work.

Beauty: You have to believe us. We didn't think it would get like this.

Beast: We're decent people, Bigby.

What are you delivering.=

Bigby: Well, what are you delivering? What's going on there? How does this fit into the Crooked Man's operation?

Beast: I couldn't tell you. But I do know this...it's the only meat market in town that doesn't carry filet. I'm not sure how much actual butchery goes on there.


 * -|Did you deliver to the Crooked Man?=

Bigby: Listen to me very carefully. Did you ever deliver to the Crooked Man? Can you give me an address?

Beast: No. I delivered to places all over town. But never to the man himself. It never seems to be heading to the same place. But it always comes out of the butcher shop.


 * -|You needed THIS work?=

Bigby: You're telling me that with a place like this, you're so hard up that you need to work for the Crooked Man? The guy you're so afraid of? Bullshit.

Beast will remember that.

Beast: It's not like he runs the counter and hands me the boxes. I never met the guy.



Bigby says nothing.

Bigby: How did you get involved with this?

Beast: Johann, the butcher, called. He had a problem with the refrigeration unit one night. But when I finished, it was your pal, Mary, who showed up to pay me. She said I was reliable, she liked that, and... It's the only thing I've been able to pick up. And it's still not enough. I don't want Beauty to have to work. Especially not where she was. It's up to me to take care of her.

You do their dirty work.=

Bigby: So you do their dirty work, and look the other way?

Beast: Work is work. All I do is deliver stuff.


 * -|Is Mary always there?=

Bigby: It's Mary you deal with? Bloody Mary is there?

Beast: No, Johann is the one who hands over the packages. You know, day to day. But I've seen her around there. She, uh...gets under my skin, you know? I...I try to avoid her... But I don't need to tell you what she's like.

Bigby: You're damn right you don't. I don't need a rundown on her reputation. If Mary works outta there, I need to look into it...


 * -|Want my help? Then quit.=

Bigby: Well, you're done working there. If you want my help, this is over.

Beast: Yeah, of course. Of--of course.



Bigby says nothing.

Beauty holds Beast's hand.

Beast: I just wanted to provide for Beauty. Give her the kind of life she deserves.

Beauty and Beast stand up.

Beauty: We shouldn't have to live like this. Scraping to get by.

Beast: None of us should. We were royalty once. We were accustomed to a certain lifestyle. All we want is to make this place feel a little bit like home. You wouldn't understand, Bigby.

Probably not.=

Bigby: No, probably not.


 * -|Fuck. Off.=

Bigby: Fuck. Off. There are a lot of Fables who have it a lot worse off than you. Or me, for that matter.


 * -|I don't need to.=

Bigby: I don't need to understand. It's not my fucking job to understand. My job is to keep Fabletown safe.



Beauty: Bigby...

Beast: So...where are you going? If this all goes sideways, I'd like to know where it's coming from.

Beauty: (in Bigby's memory) The Lucky Pawn. That's where I borrowed the money. The Crooked Man's behind that place.

Beast: (in Bigby's memory) You know that butcher shop? The Cut Above? The thing is... I don't think it's meat in the packages.

LUCKY PAWN=

Bigby: I'm going to the Lucky Pawn. There's too much going on there to ignore. I'll have a word or two with Jersey.

Beast: You know, Bigby, once you show your face there, word is going to get out. There may be nothing left to see if you go to the butcher shop after.


 * -|BUTCHER SHOP=

Bigby: I want to know what the Crooked Man is hiding at that butcher shop.

Beauty: You know, Bigby, once you show up there, word is gonna spread. There may be nothing left for you to see if you go to the Lucky Pawn after.

Bigby: Well, I guess I'll find out.

Bigby leaves the apartment and starts walking down the hall.

Beast: Wait... I don't know what you're planning to do when you find the Crooked Man, but is there any way you could...help us out?

Bigby: What do you mean?

Beast: Well, maybe you can make this all just...go away.

Beauty: We would really appreciate it. What do you say?

Beast: Can you help us out?

You want me to kill him?=

Bigby: You're asking me to kill him, aren't you? Is that what you think I do?

They will remember that.

Beauty: No! Of course not.

Beast: I don't know how you'd get that idea. We just...we know that the Crooked Man is dangerous. To all of Fabletown.

Bigby: I'm gonna do my job. Lucky for you, that might just solve your problems anyway.

Beauty: Oh, thank you, Bigby.

Beast: I'm sure you'll do the right thing.


 * -|I'll handle it.=

Bigby: I'll handle it. I'm not gonna let that crooked bastard ruin any more lives.

They will remember that.

Beauty: Oh, thank you, Bigby.

Beast: I'm sure you'll do the right thing.


 * -|I don't fix debts.=

Bigby: I don't go around fixing debts. Lucky for you, what I am going to do might just fix it anyway.

They will remember that.

Beauty: Just keep us in mind. Please?

Beast: I'm sure you'll do the right thing.



Bigby says nothing.

Bigby walks away.

The Cut Above - Butcher Shop
Bigby enters the shop, smoking a cigarette.

The Cut Above - Butcher Shop Tubman St.

(Went here first)=

Afternoon


 * -|(Went here last)=

Late Afternoon

Bigby sees a "no smoking" sign on the counter.

[Stop smoking]=

Bigby extinguishes his cigarette.


 * -|[Keep smoking] / ...=

Bigby continues smoking.

Optional interactions=

Open counter door=

Bigby starts to open the door.


 * -|Ring bell=

Bigby rings the bell.


 * -|Examine package=

Bigby: Bet that's what Beast was talking about. Hmm... That logo looks familiar... I've seen this before.

Johann steps out of the back room.

Johann: Bigby Wolf?

(Went here first)=

Johann: Well, welcome, Sheriff. What can I get for ya? You interested in a...particular cut? Um, let's see...what do we have in stock... Let's, ah...let's see what we got here... Flank steak, on special. New York strip, uh... Oh, I can have some wild boar in tomorrow, if ya like. Uh, Sirloin... ribs. Roast. Tongue. Got some...tongue, here.

Johann: What you see is...what you get. Just...meat. You won't find anything else. We just, uh... We do more whole-sale and meat packing than walk-up service. I'd like to help ya. Really, I would. But there's, uh, nothing...here.


 * -|(Went here last)=

Johann looks at the blood covering Bigby.

Johann: What happened to you?

Bigby: I'm looking for a piece of the Magic Mirror.

Johann: Um...wh--what?

Bigby: The Magic Mirror's missing shard! Where is it?! Bloody Mary brought it here, didn't she?

Johann: What? B--Bloody Mary? Magic Mirror shard? Wh--wh--what kind of place do you think this is?

Bigby: Don't bullshit me.

Johann: I'm not. What you're looking for, I...I think you'd be better off looking at, uh...the Lucky Pawn. Yeah, or some place like that. You know where it is, right? It's around the corner and a few blocks down. I'll bet you get lucky there. I--I guess that's why they call it, uh...

Johann: I... Sheriff, I--

Johann wrings his hands nervously and looks away.

Johann: Did you hear that?

Johann presses a button behind the counter.

Bigby: What?

Johann: Oh, I'm real sorry. Hold on. I--I just gotta go check on that. Don't go anywhere. I'll be right back.

Bigby: Butcher...

Johann: I just have to go see...

Johann goes into the back room. Bigby opens the counter door and goes behind the counter, seeing the button Johann pressed.

Bigby: Shit.

Bigby enters the back room, where pig carcasses are hanging from meat hooks. Johann is nowhere to be seen.

Johann: I got it covered back here, Sheriff. I'll be right out.

Bigby moves through the room.

Johann: Just wait out front, I'll be right there. I--I've got a bit of a mess back here. Look, er, c--can you come back tomorrow, maybe?

I'm coming to help you.=

Bigby: What's the problem? I'm just coming back to give you a hand.


 * -|Let's just talk, Johann.=

Bigby: Relax, Johann. I just wanna talk.


 * -|Enough with this shit!=

Bigby: Okay, I've had enough of this shit, Johann! Come on out.



Bigby says nothing.

Johann: I'm sorry, Sheriff, but you're not supposed to be back here. For, uh...safety purposes. (to himself) Come on, damn it.

You're acting suspicious!=

Bigby: For such an innocent guy, you're acting pretty damn strange, Johann.

Johann: I don't know what to tell you.


 * -|What's going on back there?=

(If Bigby went here first.)

Bigby: I'm just doing my job, Johann. What the fuck are you doing?


 * -|Give me the Mirror Shard!=

(If Bigby went here last.)

Bigby: I've already told you, damn it. Just give me the Magic Mirror shard, and I'll leave you alone...and you can go back to whatever it is that you're doing here.


 * -|This is disgusting.=

Bigby: Fuck this...

Johann: It's not for everyone. Don't sweat it, Sheriff. Just go on to the front.



Bigby says nothing.

Johann: Oh, you gotta be kidding me... They're gonna kill me...oh, god, she is gonna fucking kill me...

Bigby reaches the back of the room and sees Johann hauling boxes.

Johann: He's gonna get me killed... The things I do...

What are you doing?=

Bigby: Use your legs to lift, not your back. You'll get hurt that way. Now what the hell are you doing?


 * -|Hiding something?=

Bigby: What are you hiding behind that door, huh?


 * -|[Tap him on the shoulder]=

Bigby taps Johann's shoulder.

Bigby: How ya doin'?



Bigby says nothing.

Johann jumps and drops the box he's holding.

Johann: Plea--please, Bigby. Please don't.

Bigby: Bigby? What happened to "Sheriff"?

Johann: Please don't kill me, Sheriff. I don't wanna die. Please...please don't kill me. Please...don't kill me.

Talk...or else.=

Bigby: If you don't talk, I might have to do just that. Is that what you want, Johann?

Johann will remember that.

Johann: No, no, please...you don't have to do that.


 * -|Okay calm down.=

Bigby: Listen, just calm the fuck down, okay? I just want some answers.

Johann: Okay.


 * -|[Slam him]=

Bigby grabs Johann's face and slams him against the walls.

Bigby: Shut the fuck up!

Bigby drops Johann.

Johann: You...you're a monster. A fucking monster! Why are you doing this? I'm not part of their crew! Fuck...



Bigby says nothing.

(Didn't hurt Johann)=

Johann: I'm dead...either way. They said to me, "Johann, you can keep your life and lose your shop, or lose both." What would you do? I--it was a simple choice to make, in the moment. Easy even, when they got you on a hook in the deep freeze... But it's a hard one to live with...

Johann: The Crooked Man's people. Jersey Devil...Dee and Dum...and that mental case Bloody Mary. You wanna talk about the real butcher? It's her, not me. This is her place. I'm telling you, they muscled in on me. Took over my storage and delivery a long time ago. All 'cause of that heatwave... That summer was even hotter than this one. I let Mary and those porkers stay cool in the meat locker one day. Playing cards, having a great time. I guess they were sizing the place up. Shows what I get for being nice.

I've heard enough.=

Bigby: That's enough, Johann. I've heard all I need to.


 * -|[Let him talk] / ...=

Bigby says nothing.

Johann: I'm just a victim in this... I don't know what they do back there. I swear. And I don't want to know. I'm not allowed to know.

You're a liar!=

Bigby: You lied to me in the front. Why the fuck should I believe you now?

Johann: Because it's the truth.


 * -|Okay, I believe you.=

Bigby: It's alright. I believe you. Calm down.

Johann will remember that.


 * -|Victim? We'll see?=

Bigby: Well, we're about to see what's back there. And then we'll see if I believe you.



Bigby says nothing.

Johann: I knew this would happen. Didn't know when... But there would be the day. Bigby Wolf would walk through my door. And I'd catch hell for their shit. All for a shop I can't even run right. Dragging meats in through the front... That is, when I even get fresh meat. Really. I don't even know what's back there. Could be anything.

Optional interaction: listen to door=

Bigby: Shhh.

Bigby puts his ear against the door but hears nothing.

Bigby opens the door. He and Johann enter the room.

Bigby: What is this place?

Johann: I told you, Bigby. I don't know. They muscled me out! I swear, I don't know anything more. I haven't been back here when it was like this.

Bigby looks at the red light on the wall labeled "RUN!".

Bigby: Warning lights...

Johann: This business...it's all I've ever had. I guess that's why I stuck around when they took it...

You helped them escape!=

Bigby: Damn it, you can't act like you're forced into this, and then turn around and help them. They'd still be here if you hadn't flipped that switch out there!

Johann: I had to!


 * -|Did you warn them?=

Bigby: These lights, Johann...did you warn them I was here?

Johann: I had to!


 * -|I could have dealt with them.=

Bigby: I get why you flipped that switch, but you had a choice. You could have told me. And if you hadn't warned them, I might be dealing with your problem right now.

Johann: Told you?



Bigby says nothing.

Johann: You come in here, making trouble for me...but you only give a shit now 'cause the Crooked Man stepped on your toes or something. Where were you when they took this place from me? It hasn't been easy for me... Y--you think I wanna live with this at my back? I needed help... I needed your help.

I'll sort this out, okay?=

Bigby: Well, I'm here now. And I'm gonna sort this all out.


 * -|You're not in the clear yet.=

Bigby: You're not off the fucking hook yet, butcher. If I find something...if I so much as smell something that makes me think you're lying...


 * -|Sit down and shut up.=

Bigby: Alright, Johann, do me a favor, just shut the fuck up and stay out of the way. Can you manage that?



Bigby says nothing.

Bigby picks up a box and dumps the contents--two glamour tubes--onto the table.

Bigby: So this is what Beast was delivering. Glamours...other kinds of magic. Could be dangerous stuff.

(Said "sit down and shut up")=

Johann: Maybe just don't touch anything back here? Please?

Bigby: Didn't I tell you to sit down and shut up?

Optional interactions=

After looking around the room, Bigby returns to Johann.

(Went here first)=

Bigby: Don't you see what's going on here?

Bigby: He's got all he needs.

Bigby: Doing it like this...it's bound to be cheaper than the 13th floor.

Johann: This is just horrible. The things that must have gone on here...

Bigby: People just don't know the real cost of getting something cheap.

Johann: You don't have to tell me.

Bigby: And that fucker Crane knew all about it!

Johann: Yeah, what about Crane? If this all... I mean, if finding the Crooked Man is so fucking important...why don't you ask your boss?!

Bigby: Snow?

Johann: No, Crane! He said he knows where everybody is. I don't know how, but he's got some way... That's right, it was that creepy Magic Mirror! With the big green head, and all... Why don't you just use that? Find the Crooked Man that way...and leave me alone. Yeah, with stuff like that mirror, I'm surprised that you ever need to leave the office. Can't you just...vaporize anyone who gives you trouble? Do it right from your living room... Smoking cigarettes with your feet up...

Johann: Well, if they got their hands on an important magical item, there's only one place they'd take it. The Lucky Pawn. They probably took Crane there too...

Bigby: The Lucky Pawn... And if I can find the mirror piece there, I can find the Crooked Man.


 * -|(Went here last)=

Bigby: What the hell is that?

Bigby looks at a coat on the floor and picks it up.

Bigby: I know this isn't your coat. What's it doing here?

Johann: It's a coat, what's the big deal about some dirty...

Bigby: Looks like Crane's.

Bigby hangs the coat from a hook.

Bigby: It's seen some abuse. I'm sure he handled it just fine.

Bigby examines the first pocket, which contains a roll of bills.

Bigby: No time for travelers' checks, huh?

Bigby examines the second pocket, which contains a torn picture of Snow.

Bigby: That sick piece of...

Bigby examines the last pocket, which contains the mirror shard.

Bigby: The shard. It's the shard! Finally.

Johann: Hey! Hold on!

(Hurt Johann)=

Johann: I told you what I knew...and look what you did to me. You're just as fucked up as they are. You really still are the Big Bad Wolf... Is this what you do? You just go around ruining Fables' lives? Tormenting people... You shoulda just stayed home... Spent the day chainsmoking.


 * -|(Didn't hurt Johann)=

Johann: Well, I'm real happy you found what you're looking for, Bigby, but what about me?

Bigby: Huh?

(Didn't look at packages)=

Johann: Do you really think this is gonna be alright? Of all the stuff in here, I do know one thing. That's his icon. His symbol. What kind of guy uses a torture device as his icon? The kind of guy who isn't going to be understanding about Bigby Wolf showing himself in. So tell me this...

Johann: What the hell am I supposed to do now? I'm gonna have to spend the rest of my short life looking over my shoulder for Bloody Mary. They won't care that I held up my end. There's no way to get out of this.

We'll find a way to protect you.=

Bigby: Report to the Business Office. Tell Snow that I sent you there and we'll...we'll figure something out. Some kind of protection.

Johann: Thank you...thank you, Sheriff.


 * -|You're on your own.=

Bigby: If I were you? I'd run.


 * -|I'll take care of them.=

Bigby: You won't have to worry, Johann. I'm gonna take 'em down.

Johann: Thank you...thank you, Sheriff.



Johann: You leave me like this, I'm dead! Where am I supposed to go?

Johann will remember that.

Bigby lights a cigarette and walks out of the back room. Johann follows and watch him leave. He flips the sign from open to closed, then leaves the store.

The Lucky Pawn
Bigby arrives outside the Lucky Pawn and enters the store.

The Lucky Pawn The Bronx

(Went here first)=

Afternoon


 * -|(Went here last)=

Late Afternoon

(Went here first)=

Jack is at the counter. Toad is standing in front of him, with Faith's coat placed on the counter.

Jack: It's dirty.

Toad: No, it's not.

Jack: It looks like you slept in it. In a pile of garbage.

Toad: Jack, why are you--I've seen you take a torn purse for a tenner!

Jack: Yeah, but I also got her phone number. I don't want your phone number. (sees Bigby) Ugh. Really?

Toad: What?

Jack: Bigby's here. This is a surprise.

Toad: Sheriff.

Jack: I'm not taking the coat.

Toad: But it's magic.

Jack: So?

Toad: And it'd be covering a check I already wrote.

Jack: Okay, well...that sounds like a "your problem" problem to me.

Toad: Yeah, it is! And so I came here to sell it off!

Jack: Why would you think I'd take an ugly, used, mule skin coat?

Toad: 'Cause it's magic mule skin, that's why! And it's not even mule skin, it's donkey skin.

Toad picks up the coat.

Bigby: If you're gonna be out like this, can't you at least wear a bigger hat?

Jack: Drop by any time.

Toad leaves the shop.

Jack: He really grows on ya.

Jack: So?

Bigby: So the last time anybody else saw that axe...it was here.

Jack: We'd never take something like that. Is this really why you came down here? The Woodsman's axe? 'Cause I don't know anything about it.

Jack: Listen, I gotta start closing up shop, so, uh--

Bigby: Close? It's the middle of the day.

Jack: What can I say, Jersey likes to run at odd hours. And, really, he'd be the one to talk to, so...can't you just swing by later? It really wouldn't be good for me if he sees your face when he walks in, so, uh... I'd really rather you not physically be here if he comes back, you know... He's not what I'd call a...friendly fellow.

Jack: Can't you just--

Bigby: Shut up, Jack. If the Jersey Devil isn't here to answer my questions...it also means he isn't here to get in my way. So, I'm gonna take a look around...as long as I've got the elbow room.

Jack: Alriiiiight. Don't let me get in your way.

Jack closes the security gate at the front of the store.

Bigby: I won't.

Talk to Jack

Bigby: There's nothin' else you're forgetting to tell me...

Jack: No, just please don't break anything, alright?

Talk to Jack again

Jack: Oh, please, don't mind me...

Bigby looks at an empty display case. The sign on it says "RECENT ACQUISITION!" The tag below says "Cleaving Axe. Previous owner: The Woodsman. Ensorcelled by Druids".

Bigby: I thought you said you'd never take something like this.

Jack: Uh...um, what? I--I don--I don't...um... (laughs nervously)

Jack: I don't. Really.

Bigby opens the counter door and steps behind the counter. Jack backs away as he approaches.

Jack: I mean, I don't work every day, so... And even when I do work, I just try and keep my head down.

Jack: It was Mary, she took it, okay. That's all I know!

Bigby: That's all you know? You don't know she almost fucking killed me with it last night?

Jack: No, no, I had no goddamned idea! She sometimes comes in to pick up shit. Sometimes it's for her... Sometimes it's for the Crooked Man. But I'm smart enough to not ask questions, alright?

Bigby: Well, for your sake, you better think of something to tell me.

Jack: That's all I can tell you. I'm being straight, here! I'm just part-time. I mean, it's Jersey who's the one who's into this stuff! He's one of the Crooked Man's boys, okay? And it'd be great if he was here to tell you all this, but he's not, so just--


 * -|(Went here last)=

Bigby sees that the security gate to the store is closed. Jersey and Woody are standing inside.

Woody: Jersey, don't--don't give me that shit. What the fuck is the point of havin' a system if you're just gonna--

Jersey: It's not my fuckin' system.

(Went here last)=

Jack ducks under the gate.

Bigby: Jack! What the fuck is going on?

Jack: I'm, uh, just gonna, uh...you know...

Woody: But you--you're the guy who makes sure that--

Jersey: I'm the guy that keeps shit in order and that's it, Woody.

(Went here first)=

Woody and Jersey enter the store.

Jersey: Who closed the fucking gate? Jack?

Jersey opens the gate.

Jersey: If you love your axe so fuckin' much, why'd you pawn it in the first fuckin' place, huh?

(Went here first)=

Woody: I didn't pawn it, asshole. It was stolen from my apartment. And Gren said that he saw it here. Now tell me where it is right fuckin' now.

Jersey: I think while tempers are running high...we should keep demands to a minimum. Okay?


 * -|(Went here last)=

Jack runs out of the store. The Woodsman shoves Jersey.

Woody: I didn't pawn it, asshole. It was stolen from my apartment.

Jersey: You don't want no part of this, pal. You push me one more time, and I will have one hell of a mess on my hands. And I really don't feel like mopping out this room today. So I'm giving you one more shot to thank me for my sunny attitude and generous disposition... Turn the fuck around, and walk out that door with your life. Walking out with your axe, or whatever other bullshit is not on the table. (shoves Woodsman) So get the fuck out of my sight! Hit the bricks. See ya later.

Bigby either opens the security gate or sneaks under it if he did nothing, and enters the store.

Bigby: Hey! What's going on here?

Woody: What the fuckin' hell?!

Jersey: Christ. And this fuckin' guy, too?

(Went here first)=

Woody: Bigby? What are you--

Jersey: Is his axe even here?

Jack: Nope. It isn't.

Jersey: Just like I said, it's not here. Happy?

Jack: Uh...he wanted to know where--

Jersey: Actually, you know what, I don't care what he wanted.

Woody: Wait, we're not finished yet.

Jersey: Yes. We are.

Jersey: How's your arm? Bloody Mary leaves a bit of a sting, don't she? Jack, did you know that as of this very morning, Bigby's joining the Crooked Man's obedience school for wayward fucking creatures? He's already passed his first class. You see...the Sheriff had who he stupidly thought was the murderer...been chasing him for fuckin' days, right? But the Crooked Man snapped his bony fingers...and Bigby handed him over just...like...that.

Jack: I'm, uh, just gonna, uh...let you two...you know...

Jersey: The Crooked Man appreciated that.

Jack backs out of the front door, leaving the store.

The Woodsman sees the empty display case where his axe was.

Woody: Are you kidding me! It was here, it was right fuckin' here! What'd you do with it?

Jersey: How the fuck do I know?

Woody: (grabs Jersey) Listen, you bald little dipshit, you're gonna--

Jersey punches Woody in the stomach, and he stumbles backward.

Woody: You piece of shit.

Woody punches Jersey, then gets punched back. They start strangling each other.

Woody: I'm gonna...rip...your fucking...lungs out!

Jersey: I'd like...to see you try, you backwoods fuckwit!

Woody: Oh, big talk...you won't be talking when I'm done with you.

Jersey: Yeah, I'll be laughing! Ha. Ha.

[Restrain Jersey]=

Bigby pushes them away from each other.

Bigby: Back it up, Jersey. You're dealing with me, now.

Jersey: Still looking for whoever killed them hookers or are you done chasing your tail?

Woody: Where's my axe! Who'd you give it to!

Jersey: You follow me here all the way from Battery fucking Park...just so I can prove to you that your axe isn't here... And you think I'm gonna take another inch of abuse? Are you outta your fuckin' mind?

Woody: Back off, Dog! I just want what's mine. My axe.

Jersey: You talk big, but I don't think you got the stones to back it up.

Jersey punches Bigby in the stomach.

Jersey: Still a little sore, are we? Why should Mary get all the fun? You ain't so tough.


 * -|[Restrain Woody]=

Bigby pushes them away from each other.

Bigby: Cool it, Woody.

Woody: Back off, Dog! This doesn't concern you! We don't need the Business Office involved in this shit! I just want what's mine. My axe. Anyone. And I mean anyone who gets in the way of that has something else coming to 'em!

Jersey removes his glamour and growls. Woody charges at him but gets knocked the floor. Jersey repeatedly slashes at his face.

Woody: Ah! Fuck! Damn it... Agh!

Jersey: What did I tell you, shithead!

Woody: Get this demon off of me!

Stop Jersey=

Bigby: Back off, asshole!

Bigby kicks Jersey into a cabinet.

Jersey: Aww, protecting your friend...too bad you couldn't protect those whores. Go on, try to stop me!


 * -|Do nothing=

Jersey: Where's that smart mouth now, huh? Giving me the silent treatment?

Jersey throws the Woodsman against a cabinet.

Bigby transforms to his werewolf self. Jersey climbs onto a display case and jumps toward Bigby.

Dodge=

Bigby steps aside and grabs Jersey as he jumps, throwing him to the floor.

Bigby: Fucking stay down!


 * -|Do nothing=

Jersey tackles Bigby.

Jersey: I thought you'd fight back more than this. Had a rough night?

Woody uses the display case to pull himself up, and sees his axe in the cabinet.

Woody: There she is!

(Dodged)=

Jersey tries to crawl away. Bigby slams the security door against his back. He tries to do it again, but Jersey stops the gate and stands up.

Jersey swipes at Bigby.

Dodge=

Bigby leans back, avoiding Jersey's claws.


 * -|Do nothing=

Jersey's claws slice Bigby.

Jersey raises his arm.

Dodge=

Bigby ducks as Jersey slashes with his claws. Bigby can punch Jersey up to two times, or do nothing.


 * -|Do nothing=

Jersey's claws slice Bigby.

Bigby: Fuck!

Jersey charges at Bigby, but he grabs his horns and breaks one of them off.

Stab him=

Bigby stabs Jersey in the stomach.

Jersey: Fuck! You!


 * -|Do nothing=

Bigby does nothing.

Jersey throws Bigby against a display case. He jumps over to him and impales his arm with his claws.

Bigby: Fucker!

Bigby ducks as Jersey tries to bite him, then grabs Jersey's neck. He struggles to hold him back as Jersey continues to snap at him with his teeth.

Woody: Hey, assholes. I found her.

The Woodsman buries his axe in Jersey's head. He screams in pain and knocks Woody to the ground, then starts trying to remove the axe. Bigby picks up the statue or the anvil and hits Jersey with it, getting splattered with his blood. Bigby tosses the item aside and transforms back into his human self. Woody takes his axe out of Jersey's head, then hovers it over his neck.

(Went here first)=

Bigby: So...wanna try again?


 * -|(Went here last)=

Bigby: The Magic Mirror's missing shard! Where is it?! Bloody Mary brought it here, didn't she?

Jersey: You don't know anything...about anything, do you. What do you have? Nothin'. That useless bitch, Snow White, and a broken fuckin' mirror... No fuckin' friends. And no clue about who is really runnin' this town.

Jersey: You can't find the Crooked Man. No one can.

(Went here first)=

Jersey: There's no address, no place...he lives in the bends and forks of tree roots...behind the sun...in the...shadows.

Bigby: That's not good enough.

Jersey: The door to his house...it bounces around. Never in one spot. You'll never find it. Even Crane had to use the Magic Mirror...

(Went here first)=

Jersey: That fuckin' guy. Mirror, mirror... Fuckin' shit...

Jersey: You don't know anything...about anything, do you. What do you have? Nothin'. That useless bitch, Snow White, and a broken fuckin' mirror... No fuckin' friends. And no clue about who is really runnin' this town.

Jersey: It doesn't matter what you fuckin' do, you're not gonna get him. You wanna knock on his fuckin' door and see what happens? Fine. Crane had the Mirror. Bloody Mary had Crane. So take your fucking wrecking crew act to the butcher shop.

Bigby: The Cut Above. And if I can find the mirror piece there, I can find the Crooked Man.

Jersey: That's her spot. That's where all the magic happens... Now leave me so I can find some aspirin.

Woody: He ain't going anywhere.

Jersey: You got what you want, now get the fuck outta here...


 * -|(Went here last)=

Jersey: They dumped all his shit here. Bloody Mary uses this place like her fuckin' dump. Fuckin' bitch.

Bigby sees Crane's coat in the cabinet. He jumps over the case and walks up to it.

Jersey: Just go on. Get Crane's shit and go. Not that it's gonna do you any good...

Woody: See anything?

Bigby: Crane's coat.

Bigby examines the first pocket, which contains a roll of bills.

Bigby: No time for travelers' checks, huh?

Bigby examines the second pocket, which contains a torn picture of Snow.

Bigby: That sick piece of...

Bigby examines the last pocket, which contains the mirror shard.

Bigby: The shard. It's the shard! Finally.

Bigby and Woody start to walk away.

Jersey: Hey... Sheriff. Those girls are still dead...and there's nothin' you can do to bring them back. And I don't know what they did, but I do know this... If they're dead, it's 'cause the Crooked Man wanted them dead. That's all it takes. So you can roar, smash the place up. Shit, you can whale on me all you want, but what good is it gonna do ya? 'Cause he ain't in your town. You're in his. And he sure as shit is ready for you.

[Shut Him Up]=

Bigby kicks Jersey in the face.

Jersey: Owwww!

Bigby: Just shut the fuck up, will ya?


 * -|[Leave] / ...=

Bigby walks away.

Bigby: I don't have to listen to this shit.


 * -|[Hear Him Out] / ...=

Bigby says nothing.

Bigby and Woody leave the shop, with the latter still carrying his axe. Bigby starts smoking.

Woody: Got a smoke?

[Give him one]=

Bigby gives Woody a cigarette.

Woody: Thanks. Shitty brand.

Bigby: You're welcome.

Woody: I'm not gonna lie. I was having trouble deciding which one of you to hit with this thing.


 * -|Nope.=

Bigby: Fresh out.

Woody: I shoulda hit you with this thing. Shitty brand, anyway.


 * -|What do I look like?=

Bigby: What do I look like, huh?

Woody: You really wanna know? I shoulda hit you with this thing. Shitty brand, anyway.



Woody: I shoulda hit you with this thing. Shitty brand, anyway.

Bigby hails a cab.

Woody: Jersey was wrong, you know.

Bigby: About what?

Woody: About those girls. There is somethin' you can do about it. You can get the fucker who did it. Ain't that the plan?

I'm planning on it.=

Bigby: Yeah. You're damn right it is.

Woody: Alright. Well...go do it, then.


 * -|I'll do my job.=

Bigby: It's my job. I'll get him.

Woody: Alright. Well...go do it, then.


 * -|That's all I'm doing.=

Bigby: Believe me... That's all I've been doing. This whole damn time.

Woody: Alright. Well...go do it, then.



Bigby says nothing.

Woody starts to walk away.

You gonna be OK?=

Bigby: Hey, Woody.

Woody: Yeah?

Bigby: You gonna be alright?

Woody: You know me.


 * -|I'll see you around.=

Bigby: Hey, Woody.

Woody: Yeah?

Bigby: I'll see you around, alright?

Woody: Yeah, I'll see ya.


 * -|What's next for you?=

Bigby: Hey, Woody.

Woody: Yeah?

Bigby: What are you gonna do now?

Woody: We all got our roles to play, Wolf. I'll see ya.


 * -|[Get in the Cab] / ...=

Bigby says nothing.

Bigby gets in the cab, and it drives away.

Fabletown Business Office
Fabletown Business Office The Woodland Building Evening

Bigby enters the office, where Snow, Toad, Bluebeard, and Bufkin are gathered.

Bluebeard: I don't care who killed the prostitutes, if Crane was helping himself to the community coffers, it means his hand was in my pocket. And you just let him go!

Snow: I don't know what you heard, but it didn't happen like that.

Bluebeard: Are you denying the facts?

Toad: She's denying me the chance to get a word in. Now, Miss White, I--

Bufkin: Sheriff Bigby has returned!

Toad: Ah, there's the ole wrecking ball, himself!

Snow: Bigby, where have you been?

Bluebeard: I'm not finished here, Miss White--

Snow: You will have to wait! Just one moment, please.

Bigby: Look what I found.

Bigby takes out the mirror shard.

Bluebeard: Seems your dog wants a biscuit.

Bigby: I'm not in the mood. And you've got a lot to answer for.

Bluebeard: Oh, really?

Snow: Bufkin! Get this piece in the mirror, right away!

Bufkin: With pleasure, Ms. White!

Bufkin takes the piece from Bigby and flies over to the mirror.

Snow: Finally. Things are swinging back in the right direction. Good work, Bigby. You've been gone all day. What did you uncover? I thought you were going to report back to me. I mean, it's fine... So what else did you find out?

Crane used the mirror to find him.=

Bigby: Once the mirror's fixed, we can use it to find that crooked bastard. Or at least wherever he hangs his hat. That's how Crane kept tabs on him...and everybody else. I'd say he was abusing the privilege. He was probably spying on all of us.

Snow: He was probably spying on me...

Bigby: Anyway...

Snow: No, it's fine. You did... Excellent work, Bigby.


 * -|The Crooked Man's door moves.=

Bigby: I had to get real persuasive with the Jersey Devil, down at the Lucky Pawn, but he told me that the Crooked Man's door...to wherever it is he hangs his hat...it moves! It's some kind of magic door.

Snow: Do you think the mirror will be able to find the door...once it's fixed?

Bigby: That's how Crane did it. And that's how we're gonna do it.

Snow: Excellent work. Really.


 * -|All of Fabletown is involved.=

Bigby: I gotta say...this thing reaches a lot further than we thought. The Crooked Man has something on everybody. It wasn't just Beauty and the loan. Beast was working for him. His goon, the Jersey Devil, is putting the squeeze on all kinds of Fables down at the Lucky Pawn.

Bigby: But that's over now. Because we got the mirror. And once it's fixed? We got him. That's how Crane did it. And that's how we're gonna do it.

Snow: Excellent work. Really.



Snow: Alright.

Bufkin: Sheriff, I could use your assistance. Would you join me at the mirror?

Bluebeard: Don't go far, Sheriff. I'd like to have a few words of my own with you.

Toad: Unbelievable. Pompous ass.

Take a number.=

Bigby: Oh yeah? Take a number.


 * -|Fuck off until I'm ready.=

Bigby: Why don't you go fuck off until I'm good and ready?

Bluebear will remember that.


 * -|You burned Crane's shit.=

(If Bigby went to Crane's apartment after Bluebeard.)

Bigby: (turns around) Why the hell did you burn Crane's stuff, huh? And don't bullshit me, Bufkin was there. I know it was you.

Bluebeard: Given Ichabod's obsession with Miss White, (walks up to Bigby) I thought it best to make sure that nothing untoward saw the light of day.

Bigby: (walks up to Bluebeard) Oh, fuck off. I know you were burning evidence.

Bluebeard: Then tell me, what evidence did I burn?

Bigby: I have more important things to deal with right now. But you can be sure that we're gonna have a long fucking talk about this when I'm done.

Bluebeard: I do so enjoy our talks. I'll wait with bated breath.


 * -|Why did you attack Flycatcher?=

(If Bigby went to the Tweedles' office after Bluebeard.)

Bigby: (turns around) Why‘d you put the hurt on Flycatcher? Were you hiding something down at the Tweedles? Or was it just for fun?

Bluebeard: He worked for them didn’t he? (walks up to Bigby) I couldn’t be sure he wasn’t involved. And I didn’t want him interfering. (Bigby walks up to him) I was simply endeavoring to make the search a speedy one. Surely you of all people can’t fault me for getting...overzealous in the process.

Bigby: I don’t buy it. I have more important things to deal with right now. But you can be sure that we're gonna have a long fucking talk about this when I'm done.

Bluebeard: I do so enjoy our talks. I'll wait with bated breath.


 * -|We'll talk soon.=

(If Bigby didn't go to the office/apartment after Bluebeard.)

Bigby: Don't worry. We'll talk soon. You can count on it.



Bigby says nothing.

Bigby walks over to Bufkin.

Bluebeard: (in background) And that's another thing. Have you completely given up on finding Crane?

Snow: (in background) The Crooked Man is our concern, now.

Bufkin: I don't understand...this piece just doesn't want to join the rest. Do you have any idea why?

Bluebeard: (in background) Did he murder those prostitutes?

Bigby: You got me.

Snow: (in background) Not necessarily...personally. But we believe he is ultimately responsible.

Bufkin: Well, where did you find it? What has it gone through since being separated from the rest?

Toad: (in background) Oh, is that what you need to do around here to get some attention? Murder someone?

Bufkin: Shattering is a very traumatic experience, you know. So this process can be a little touchy.

Bluebeard: (in background) Tell that stupid reptile to hold his tongue.

Toad: (in background) That's quite the wit we have, innit?

Bufkin: It helps that I have a good working relationship with the mirror. And I don't mind speaking in rhyme.

Snow: (in background) I told you, now is not a good time! Can you please just wait and--

Toad: (in background) Now's a perfect time. You could build a mountain of goodwill with those of us in steerage if you made this right.

Snow: (in background) I will do my best to try--

Bluebeard: (in background) I can't believe you're even entertaining this! He's endangering all of us. Running around without a glamour. He needs to go to the Farm... At the very least, out of my sight.

Toad: (in background) Last time I checked, you weren't Sheriff.

Bluebeard: (in background) I went out and did my part. What are you doing to find Crane?

It was at the Lucky Pawn. / It was at the Butcher Shop.=

Bigby: Last person I saw with Crane, or his coat, was that psycho Bloody Mary. Maybe she had some--

Bufkin: Ah, yes. Miss White was asking about her. That explains it! You-know-who and the Mirror have a very...unhappy history with each other. How would you like it if she tired to use you as a doorway?

Bigby: I think I already know the feeling...

Bufkin: Well, I think I know how to proceed, now. It will just take a little extra...coaxing. That's all. Thank you for your help.


 * -|Crane had it on him.=

Bigby: Crane was carrying it for part of the night, at least. I found it in his coat. It's pretty amazing it's still intact after the fight, the kidnapping, and then riding around with Bloody Mary for however--

Bufkin: Ah, yes. Miss White was asking about her. That explains it! You-know-who and the Mirror have a very...unhappy history with each other. How would you like it if she tired to use you as a doorway?

Bigby: I think I already know the feeling...

Bufkin: Well, I think I know how to proceed, now. It will just take a little extra...coaxing. That's all. Thank you for your help.


 * -|Mary got her hands on it.=

Bigby: I found it in Crane's coat. Last person I saw with Crane, or his coat, was that psycho Bloody Mary. Maybe she had some--

Bufkin: Ah, yes. Miss White was asking about her. That explains it! You-know-who and the Mirror have a very...unhappy history with each other. How would you like it if she tired to use you as a doorway?

Bigby: I think I already know the feeling...

Bufkin: Well, I think I know how to proceed, now. It will just take a little extra...coaxing. That's all. Thank you for your help.



Bufkin: So...can you think of anything?

Bigby shrugs.

Bufkin: I shall labor on, then. This will take some...coaxing.

Snow: (in background) We've got enough problems right now, okay?

Bluebeard: (in background) I see. You're at a loss, so now you're interested in my search.

Bufkin: It could be a while, Sheriff. I'll find you when it's ready. Besides which...he might not want to come out with you watching.

Bigby: Oh, he doesn't like being spied on?

Bufkin shrugs.

Bluebeard: (in background) If you ask me, you're everything that's wrong with Fabletown. Always with your hand out. Zero sense of self reliance.

Bigby returns to Snow.

Snow: Is it fixed? Did you ask about the Crooked Man?

Toad: (in background) Oh, and you're Walt Whitman, I take it.

Bigby: Bufkin's still working on it. He said it might be a while.

Toad: If you're so self-reliant, what do you want from the Business Office so bad?

Bluebeard: What I want is my business.

Snow: I can't take those two right now.

Bluebeard: (in background) I pay dearly for it to be so.

Toad: (in background) You pay to put a shine o' decency on your dealings, you do. But you can only shine a turd so much.

Snow: We're trying to catch a murderer, and they're... They're over there bickering about bureaucracy!

Bluebeard: (in background) What the devil is that supposed to mean?

Toad: (in background) It means read a book sometime, ya pompous git.

Snow: We're...at war! Don't they realize that?

Toad: (in background) That's right. You're always in here, muckin' about.

Bluebeard: (in background) What's good for me is good for Fabletown.

Bigby: Do you need some help over there?

Snow: Yeah, thanks.

Toad: (in background) Actually, that's where you're wrong.

Bluebeard: (in background) I'm sure experience has given you that impression.

Snow: Go talk to Toad. But, just so you know, we can't pay him.

Toad: (in background) Sod off, cueball.

Bluebeard: (in background) You should learn to treat your betters with the appropriate respect.

Snow: He really needs to go to the Farm, you know. So, just break the news and be done with it, okay?

Toad: (in background) That Snow White is no better than Crane! No budge on the bloody glamour. I only came in to see about a bit of dosh for the damages!

Snow sits down behind her desk. Bigby leans against a nearby table.

Bigby: Toad! Come here.

Toad walks over to Bigby.

Snow: (in background) I thought I made myself very clear.

Bluebeard: (in background) He's the one who let Crane get away, isn't he? It's a very strange decision for the Sheriff to make.

Snow: (in background) We do things the right way.

Bluebeard: (in background) I wouldn't be so sure.

Toad: I see how it is. Passed off to an underling, eh? Why am I not surprised? Well, you did cause what damage brings me in here, so maybe it's for the best. Just need a little bit of dosh to cover it. I tried talking to her about it, but it's like chatting up a brick wall, it is.

Snow: (in background) So... is there anything else you want to tell me?

Bluebeard: (in background) I expected you'd ask about him. But as far as questions go, it's a bit broad, don't you think? We've met. He's a scratch golfer. But it's always been...casually arranged. In fact, if I remember correctly, he just shows up and leaves...very much at his own convenience. If you're waiting me to volunteer information, I simply don't have any. One rarely spills their secrets over a round of golf.

Toad: Now I'm sure you've got your own agenda, Sheriff. But I've taken a real wallop because of you. And you can't deny that.

Where's the glamour?=

Bigby: I'm starting to think you don't take me seriously, Toad. How many times have I told you to get glamoured up? You know that if you're out of glamour, I gotta send you to the Farm.


 * -|Hey, I tried to pay you.=

(If Bigby tried to give Toad money at the pawn shop.)

Bigby: Hey, I tried to give you money back at the Lucky Pawn, but you wouldn't take it.

Toad: I was just being polite. Ever heard of it? That wouldn't have covered the cab ride home, let alone a glamour. Please, I'm not looking for any more than to cover the big-ticket damages. Not a cent more. I'm not looking for a handout. Just what's right. I need it, Bigby.

Bigby: This isn't exactly a new problem with you, Toad. You know that if you're out of glamour, I gotta send you to the Farm.


 * -|This place isn't a bank.=

(If Bigby didn't give Toad money.)

Bigby: Toad, this is the Business Office, not a bank.

Toad: You're always talking about glamours, and how it's my responsibility. Well, what about your responsibility? My car...totaled? The gaping maw in my wall? Any of this sound familiar? I'm not looking for a handout. Just what's right. I need it, Bigby.

Bigby: This isn't exactly a new problem with you, Toad. You know that if you're out of glamour, I gotta send you to the Farm.


 * -|Do you know the Crooked Man?=

Bigby: Before we get into any of that, what do you know about the Crooked Man?

Toad: Don't try to change the subject on me! I need a little bit o' that walking-around money, you know? My car...totaled? The gaping maw in my wall? Any of this sound familiar? I've written up a bill if you'd like to see it. I'm not looking for a handout. Just what's right. I need it, Bigby.

Bigby: This isn't exactly a new problem with you, Toad. You know that if you're out of glamour, I gotta send you to the Farm.



Toad: My car...totaled? The gaping maw in my wall? Any of this sound familiar? I've written up a bill if you'd like to see it. I'm not looking for a handout. Just what's right. I need it, Bigby.

Bigby: This isn't exactly a new problem with you, Toad. You know that if you're out of glamour, I gotta send you to the Farm.

(Didn't give Toad Crane's money)=

Toad: Well... How about your friend, the pig, hm? Is he going to the Farm too? Yeah, you thought we didn't know about him, huh? The worst kept secret in Fabletown. For a friend, the rules'll bend. That's a slippery slope, that is.

Toad: If you give me one more chance, and hear me out, I see a way for me and me boy to stay. I'm not gonna ask for any more than I need. I just want to stay. So whaddya say you just give me enough to cover me glamours, and we'll...call the rest a wash? Please, Sheriff. Don't take TJ from the only home he knows. This whole glamour rule is...oppressive. I've done nothing wrong but look different. You know it's not right... Burdenring the weakest of us like this. This world isn't kind to those of us who can't pass for human.

Toad walks away, either whistling and skipping happily if Bigby gave him money or said he'd do what he could, or unhappily if Bigby sent him to the Farm.

Bigby: Bluebeard! You wanna talk? Now's your chance.

Bluebeard: I've just made my donation funding this office, so direct your questions to Miss White.

Bluebeard leaves the office.

Snow: Well, at least he's not trying to get rid of me...

Bigby: He's not?

Snow: For now... Did you take care of Toad? I mean... I saw the way he left... I know it may not seem that important right now. But glamours are the law for a very good reason. You know that as well as anyone.

He won't be a problem.=

Bigby: Toad won't be a problem. I'll see to that.


 * -|He's out of our hair for now.=

(If Bigby helped Toad.)

Bigby: Look, I'll take care of it later. I told him we'd work it out so he'd get out of our hair. We don't have time to worry about that right now.

Snow: Bigby, what did I tell you?

Bigby: If he's unglamoured when this whole thing is over, I'll send him to the Farm, no questions asked, okay?

Snow: Fine. We'll deal with it later.


 * -|He'll be gone tomorrow.=

(If Bigby sent Toad to the Farm.)

Bigby: I did it. He'll be gone tomorrow. Him and TJ.

Snow: It may not have felt good, but it was the right thing to do. You know that.


 * -|I did the right thing.=

Bigby: Don't worry. I did the right thing.



Snow: Well, did you or didn't you? Fine. We'll deal with it later.

Snow: I know I should be asking how it got like this... But I just keep wondering why it happened...to Faith and Lily. You've seen his world. Do you have any idea why he'd want them dead? I don't know if the Crooked Man killed them with his own hand, or if it was one of his goons... But someone did. What would make a person do that? What could those girls have done?

It's about control.=

Bigby: If there's one thing I've figured out, its't hat the Crooked Man is all about control. It's what he does with the loans at the Pawn Shop, the magic he peddles...chains...ribbons. Maybe Faith and Lily weren't doing what they were told. Or...maybe they just tried to leave.


 * -|Money is all he cares about.=

Bigby: Guys like the Crooked Man...all they care about is money. That's what all his operations were about. Maybe Faith and Lily weren't bringing enough money in. Or...maybe they were just trying to find a way out.


 * -|I don't know, but I'll find out.=

Bigby: I don't know...but when I catch the fucker who did this, I'll find out why.



Bigby says nothing.

Bufkin: Sheriff! Miss White! I believe the mirror is repaired.

Bigby and Snow walk over to the mirror.

Mirror: I have to say, I have been better...but thanks for putting me back together.

Snow: I'm sorry. I just--I have to know... Mirror, mirror...we're glad you weren't slain. Now please show us...that sick creep crane.

Bufkin: He's probably still...waking up a little.

Is that a good idea?=

Bigby: Are you really sure you wanna see him?


 * -|I want to know, too.=

Bigby: Yeah, I wanna see where he's ended up, too.


 * -|Why are we doing this?=

Bigby: Snow, I know you've got your reasons, but...he's not our top concern right now.



Bigby says nothing.

The Mirror shows Mary and Crane standing outside a cab.

Mary: You will get on that plane to Paris and you will wait for the day the Crooked Man needs you. Until then, not a peep. Otherwise, I get to deal with you my way. So please...please disobey. Wait a minute... Someone's watching.

Mary looks out through the mirror and raises her hand, distorting the view.

Mirror: What...just happened?

Bufkin: We pointed you in the wrong direction...and looked at Bloody Mary's reflection.

Mirror: Oh...her. That explains the sting. I'd rather not have to feel the pain she brings. So...let's not do that again, okay?

Bigby: Looks like we'll have to track him down later.

Snow: You're right. We need to focus on the immediate threat. And that's the Crooked Man. Bigby, we don't have a lot of time.

Bufkin: Are you having trouble with the rhyme, Sheriff?

Show me where Crooked Man is.=

Bigby: Just show me where I can find the Crooked Man.

Mirror: I haven't been feeling well, of late. Seems neither of us can cooperate.

Bigby: Damn.

Bufkin: Perhaps I can be of assistance? Mirror, mirror keep us sane, show the door to Crooked Man's domain!

Mirror: I can always count on you, Bufkin.


 * -|I'm not a poet, damn it.=

Bigby: Poetry isn't part of my job description.

Mirror: I haven't been feeling well, of late. Seems neither of us can cooperate.

Bigby: Damn.

Bufkin: Perhaps I can be of assistance? Mirror, mirror keep us sane, show the door to Crooked Man's domain!

Mirror: I can always count on you, Bufkin.


 * -|Mirror, mirror...=

Bigby: Uh, Mirror, Mirror...no time to pout...so where does Crooked Man hang out?



Bufkin: Perhaps I can be of assistance? Mirror, mirror keep us sane, show the door to Crooked Man's domain!

Mirror: I can always count on you, Bufkin.

The Mirror shows a door painted with a torture wheel.

Bigby: I don't recognize the door, but...that's the Crooked Man's symbol on it.

Mirror: Hold on...

The symbol fades from the door. The Mirror shows another door, where the symbol reappears.

Snow: The door...it moves...

(Told Snow about door)=

Bigby: What'd I tell ya?


 * -|(Didn't tell Snow about door)=

Bigby: Yeah, Jersey mentioned that.

Snow: Wait a minute, I know that door...

Bigby: That's Central Park. I don't know when it's gonna move again, but I'm gonna get there before it does.

Snow: Bigby, wait. When you get the Crooked Man...make sure you bring him back alive. He has to stand trial.

(Killed Dum)=

Snow: This can't be like it was with Tweedle Dum. I don't care if it gets out of hand. You don't let it come to that.


 * -|(Didn't kill Dum)=

Snow: We can't just dispense street justice.

Snow: I know that emotions can run high. And you have your reasons to handle this a certain way. But we have to make a commitment to working within the law.

I'll bring him back alive.=

Bigby: I'll catch him and bring him back here. Alive. Then we can clean him and cook him together.

Snow: Good.


 * -|No guarantees.=

Bigby: I can't make that promise. This could turn sour, just depending on how the wind blows. I have to be able to handle it how I see fit.

Snow will remember that.

Snow: If people are going to have faith in the Fabletown government again, we need to be fair. Show them that we're doing things the right way.


 * -|Easier to kill him.=

Bigby: Wouldn't it be easier if I just...took care of it when I come face to face with him? It'd be clean. Efficient. No need to muddy the water with a trial and accusations.

Snow will remember that.

Snow: If people are going to have faith in the Fabletown government again, we need to be fair. Show them that we're doing things the right way.



Bigby says nothing.

Snow: I have enough to worry about here while I prepare the case against him. So I'm going to trust you to handle this properly. That is...if you think you're ready?

Bigby: Of course I'm ready. I got no other choice.

Bigby walks away.

The Gothic Bridge
The Gothic Bridge Central Park, 94th Street Night

Bigby runs through the park and reaches the door.

Optional interaction: examine portal door=

Bigby: That's it, alright.

Bigby either kicks or pulls open the door, revealing a portal. He charges through it, arriving in a new location.

Crooked Man's Lair
The symbol on the wall behind Bigby disappears. He hears someone approaching, and hides behind the wall. Tiny Tim turns the corner.

Bigby: Tim? What the hell are you doing here?

Tim: Good evening, Sheriff. I'm here to take you to the boss. (offers hand) Thanks, by the way...for leaving off "Tiny". "Tiny Tim". You'd think I'd have outgrown that centuries ago.

[Shake Hand]=

Bigby shakes Tim's hand.

Tim: I have to admit, when they asked me to watch the door... I wasn't sure what to expect when you came through that portal. I know you aren't here on a social call. So thanks for not giving me a hard time.


 * -|[Smack Hand Away]=

Bigby smacks Tim's hand away.

Tim: What? I know this isn't a social call... But I'm just watching the door, here. Then again, I guess I don't know what else I should have expected...


 * -|[Don't Shake] / ...=

Bigby crosses his arms. Tim drops his hand.

Tim: I have to admit, when they asked me to watch the door... I wasn't sure what to expect when you came through that portal. But I get it... You're not here on a social call.

You were expecting me?=

Bigby: Hold on, you've just been waiting for me to show up? You knew I was coming?

Tim: That's what they told me. I dunno, they said you made it pretty clear.


 * -|Kinda small for a guard...=

Bigby: You know, I kinda thought the Crooked Man would have bigger guards. Trolls. Ogres. I'm almost insulted he doesn't.

Tim: Maybe he just wants to talk.


 * -|Where the hell am I?=

Bigby: What is this place? Or...where is it? I know I'm not in Central Park anymore.

Tim: I'm not sure. I've only ever come in through one of the portals. I don't think you can get in from the actual street. But you can't blame him for wanting to make it hard to find.



Bigby says nothing.

Tim: I'm supposed to bring you right on in, so...if you'll come this way... Look, this is the one thing I have to do. Please, don't make this hard on me... I don't want to get in trouble. Will you just...follow me?

I'll follow you.=

Bigby: Fine. Lead on.


 * -|Get this over with.=

Bigby: Alright, let's get this over with. Come on.


 * -|I don't need your help.=

Bigby: I don't need you to hold my hand.



Bigby gestures for Tim to lead the way.

Tim and Bigby start walking down the hallway.

(Wasn't rude to Tim)=

Tim: Thanks for understanding. This is all I'm here to do, and...I don't want to mess it up.

Tim: I know I'm probably the last person you'd expect to be a...guard. Or an escort, for that matter. I was a little surprised, myself, when they asked me to do it. I thought it was a joke, actually. I'm...an easy target.

You're a part of this.=

Bigby: Tim, how can you be working here? You know who this guy is, don't you?

Tim: He's not... He's not as bad as you think.


 * -|It's dangerous for you here.=

Bigby: You shouldn't be here, Tim. This place is dangerous. Especially for someone...like you.

Tim: It's...not like that. Whatever you may think of him...


 * -|I know you have a job to do.=

Bigby: I get it. You have a job to do. But you gotta ask yourself if you wanna be involved with this guy.

Tim: Whatever you may think of him...



Tim: But he takes me seriously...

Tim: He doesn't treat me like some...broken little kid. I think he gets what it's like. He gave me a job. And I'm lucky to have it. This is the only option I've got. Just...keep that in mind, maybe? 'Cause if you and the boss go up against each other...the rest of Fabletown is gonna get caught in the middle. And if you're here, it can't be good. So I hope you two can...come to an understanding.

Find another job.=

Bigby: I understand the position you're in, but you don't have to do this. There are other things you could do.

Tim: So it's just that easy?

Bigby: Maybe not, but you don't want to be a part of this.


 * -|You should leave now.=

Bigby: I can find the door myself. You should just get the hell outta here. Things are gonna get ugly in a minute.

Tim: Leave? I told you, I have to do this.

Bigby: Hey, you've been warned. Stick around and you're a part of this, just like anyone else.


 * -|Working here means you're involved.=

Bigby: Don't you realize you're not just minding the door? You work for that crooked bastard, your hands get dirty too.

Tim: It's not so bad.

Bigby: Not so bad? Are you fucking blind, Tim? He's a murderer.

Tim: So you're telling me you agree with everything Crane does?



Bigby says nothing.

Tim: A lot of us depend on him. Some of us never get to the front of the line at the Business Office. But he's there. We need you...but we need him too. What we don't need is a war.

Bigby starts walkign ahead of Tim.

Tim: Hey, Sheriff, hold up... I gotta go in with you. Can't you just wait up, Sheriff? Hold on!

I'm in a hurry.=

Bigby: I don't have time for this.

Tim: God bless us everyone.


 * -|[Wait for him] / ...=

Bigby stops walking.

Tim: Thanks.

Bigby and determinantly Tim arrive in front of a pair of double doors. Jersey laughs from inside the room.

Georgie: (from inside room) Am I some kind of a fucking joke to you? What did I tell you, eh? Stop laughin' at me.

Jersey: (from inside room) Oh, yeah? Make me. I ain't scared of you. It's the wolf I got a problem with.

Crooked Man: (from inside room) You needn't worry. He'll come around. And like Crane before him, I'm sure he will prove himself quite handy to have in my pocket. Either he's smart enough to see this is for the best...or dim enough to do as he's told.

(Waited for Tim)=


 * -|(Went on ahead)=

Dee, Jersey, Georgie, Vivian, the Crooked Man, and determinantly Dum are gathered in the room. Jersey starts to walk toward Bigby, but the Crooked Man gestures for him to stop.

(Tim opened the door)=

Crooked Man: Thank you, Tim. I know the Sheriff isn't the...accommodating sort. But you handled it. You did well. You can go now.

Tim: Thank you, sir.


 * -|(Bigby opened the door)=

Crooked Man: I was wondering when you'd turn up.

Crooked Man: It's alright, Tim. I shouldn't have expected the Sheriff to give you respect enough to do your job. But you did fine. You can go now.

Tim leaves the room, closing the doors behind him.

Crooked Man: You see? Everyone in Fabletown has a role to fill. You just have to pay attention to what they need to help them find it. Why don't you have a seat, Sheriff? We have a great deal to discuss.

No. You're coming with me.=

Bigby: It's over. Dead or alive, you're coming with me.

Bigby lights a cigarette.


 * -|Alright. Let's talk.=

Bigby: Alright, you got me here. Let's talk.

Bigby lights a cigarette.


 * -|[Threaten him]=

Bigby: I'm gonna enjoy this.

Bigby clenches his fist.


 * -|[Smoke] / ...=

Bigby lights a cigarette.