EXT. ALEPPO STATION - EARLY MORNING
A biting cold wind sweeps through the dimly lit station. HERCULE POIROT, wrapped tightly in his coat, stands at the door of the TAURUS EXPRESS with a suitcase in hand. LIEUTENANT DUBOSQUE stands beside him, a worried expression on his face.
LIEUTENANT DUBOSQUE
Monsieur Poirot, are you really sure you want to leave at this hour? This dreadful weather, a snowstorm is on the way.
HERCULE POIROT
(smiling, adjusting his hat)
Dear Lieutenant, there is no need to worry about me. I am quite accustomed to the bumps of travel, and besides, this Taurus Express is renowned for its comfort and punctuality.
LIEUTENANT DUBOSQUE
That may be, but I still have my concerns... Your journey to Turkey is long, and one must be careful.
HERCULE POIROT
(raising an eyebrow)
Oh? Why are you so troubled? Do you know something I do not?
LIEUTENANT DUBOSQUE
(waving his hands nervously)
No, no! I know nothing! I just... I just worry for your safety. You know, things have been unsettled lately, and the high command...
Lieutenant Dubosque suddenly stops, hesitating.
HERCULE POIROT
(eyes sharp)
Lieutenant, it seems you have much on your mind.

LIEUTENANT DUBOSQUE
(forcing a smile)
It’s nothing, just some military matters. By the way, since you arrived in Aleppo, those old military men have been quite subdued.
HERCULE POIROT
(confident smile)
That is because the truth always reveals itself when the fog has lifted.
A TRAIN WHISTLE sounds in the background.
LIEUTENANT DUBOSQUE
You should board now, Monsieur Poirot. I wish you a safe journey.
HERCULE POIROT
(nodding)
Goodbye, Lieutenant. I hope that next time we meet, you will be more at ease.
Hercule Poirot turns and boards the train, entering the carriage. Lieutenant Dubosque stands at the station, watching the train depart with a complex expression.

