INT/EXT. The platform at the train station. 

The platform at the train station is bustling with activity, adorned with the flickering gas lamps casting a warm glow against the encroaching twilight. The air is crisp and cold, carrying a mix of steam and distant sounds of train whistles. Passengers bustle about, clutching their suitcases tightly, while porters shout to be heard over the clamor. Wooden benches line the platform, offering weary travelers a place to rest amidst the flurry. A large clock hangs overhead, its hands ticking steadily as if echoing the urgency of time slipping away. Snowflakes begin to drift down, gently settling on the edges of the platform as M. Hercule Poirot prepares to board the Taurus Express, the scene thick with anticipation and farewells. The station’s architecture, a blend of Victorian grandeur and practicality, creates a sense of nostalgia while emphasizing the modernity of travel. The scent of coal smoke wafts through the air, mingling with the faint aroma of fresh pastries from a nearby vendor. Lanterns sway slightly in the cold breeze, their light reflecting off the polished wood of the train cars that glisten in the twilight. As Lieutenant Dubosc bids farewell, the atmosphere is heavy with unspoken goodbyes and lingering worries about what lies ahead on this journey,an undercurrent of tension palpable amidst the excitement of departure.

Lieutenant Dubosc is a military officer who bids farewell to M. Hercule Poirot at the station. He expresses optimism for the Taurus Express journey, while also reflecting on the military tensions that surround them, sensing Poirot's calming presence amidst the chaos.
M. Hercule Poirot is a renowned detective known for his sharp intellect and meticulous attention to detail. His presence on the Taurus Express becomes crucial after the murder of André Ratchett, as he takes on the challenge of uncovering the truth behind the crime and exploring the interconnected motives of the passengers.

LIEUTENANT DUBOSC  
(stepping closer to Poirot)  
Ah, M. Poirot! I see your bags are all in place. It seems our train shall soon depart into this wintry night.

M. HERCULE POIROT  
Indeed, Lieutenant. There is something rather invigorating about embarking on a journey such as this—even with snow beginning to fall.

LIEUTENANT DUBOSC  
(chuckling)  
Invigorating? I suppose one must find warmth in moments like these! Yet I cannot shake the chill from my thoughts—military tensions rise every hour like this snow upon our shoulders.

M. HERCULE POIROT  
(smiling gently)  
Ah, but it isthe little things that provide comfort, non? We travel together, aboard the Taurus Express. You will find that camaraderie often warms the heart, even in the coldest of times.

LIEUTENANT DUBOSC  
(nods, gazing out at the busy platform)  
You speak wisely, as always. Still, I feel a weight in my chest—a storm brews not only in this weather but also beyond these walls. I fear for the safety of our nation.

M. HERCULE POIROT  
(placing a reassuring hand on Dubosc's shoulder)  
But remember, my friend, each man’s heart bears its own battle. You carry your duty with honor. When faced with adversity, it is our choices that define us, not the storms around us.

LIEUTENANT DUBOSC  
(slightly uplifted)  
You bring me solace, Poirot. Perhaps this journey will offer clarity amidst chaos, and perhaps your presence alone can calm the tempest within me.

M. HERCULE POIROT  
(with a twinkle in his eye)  
Let us hope so! And should our paths be tested, let it be a puzzle we unravel together—ah, how I love a good mystery!

LIEUTENANT DUBOSC  
(laughs heartily)  
Yes! A mystery indeed! But pray we find peace on this train and not entangle ourselves in darker tales.

M. HERCULE POIROT  
(smirking)  
Every journey holds its secrets—some are simply meant to be discovered. But worry not, Lieutenant; I shall be your sentinel. 

LIEUTENANT DUBOSC  
(grateful)  
Then we shall face whatever lies ahead as comrades. Be safe in your observations, Poirot.

M. HERCULE POIROT  
And you in your duties, dear friend. I shall keep a watchful eye—and an even sharper mind.

(The sound of a train whistle echoes as the Taurus Express readies to depart.)

LIEUTENANT DUBOSC  
(waving farewell)  
Safe travels, Poirot! Let us meet again once the storm has passed.

M. HERCULE POIROT  
(raising his hand in acknowledgment)  
Until then, Lieutenant!