Another peek into the future...:
The smouldering remains of the Queen Vic cast a stale burning stench over the Walford air. The normally happy-go-lucky denizens of Albert Square were in a state of shock.
“So many of our friends dead or missing,” wailed Fat Pat ‘Eavens Above. “And just think, it could have been me in there.” The total numbers dead or missing amounted to 13. “Unlucky for some,” mused Libby, who, at that moment, was glad she had never been able to find her way to Oxford as she felt she needed to be with those who had lost their lives in the producer’s cull – sorry, in the fire. Amongst those definitely gone were Stacey Slagperson, Charlie Cabbie, Chelsea Fux and Minty with the hole in the head.
Lucas looked on in amazement. “This fire has killed more people than even I could manage. God is being unkind to me. Who did it? Who has God chosen above me to slaughter the wicked?”
Just as he said the words, Little Ben Milky Bar Kid pushed through what was left of the saloon bar doors (older readers will recognise the allusion here). “It was me, Lucas,” he said, “I am the new villain of Albert Square.” “You look different,” said Lucas. “Yes, it’s the new mean me,” replied the new kid on the block. “And if you don’t watch out your Community Centre will be going up in flames too.” Lucas stepped back.
Suddenly Roxy Bitchell entered the glowing embers of what had once been her pride and joy. “I can’t believe it,” she said, “Little Ben. Someone must have put you up to this.”
“You’re damn right they did,” exclaimed the Queen of Walford, entering stage left in dramatic fashion with her bra pinging off her ample bosoms. “This is all mine and if I can’t have it no-one can. Now gerrouramypub all of you.”
And with that there was great rejoicing in all the land that Peggy Bitchell was unharmed and back in her rightful place behind the bar of the Queen Vic, even though it wasn’t there any more.
To be continued in high def….