Play@YSDC

Chapter the Fourth: The Masquerade; Or, Disguises and Deceptions

An alert observer with acute night vision might have noticed two figures removing a large object, covered in a sheet, from an outbuilding after Doctor North and Mister Rachman had returned to Harcourt House. Be that as it may, both the ladies, having retired earlier, and the gentlemen, fatigued from their work, enjoyed a restful night.

The next morning, to the surprise of most, Doctor North already appeared in full array as Sir Isaac Newton, the celebrated natural philosopher of more than half a century ago. He wore an old-fashioned large, high, parted wig, familiar from portraits of the late Master of the Royal Mint. His justaucorps, jacket, and breeches were decades out of style. In one hand held he held a prism, in the other a small reflecting telescope, these odd items no doubt obtained from Mister North's collection of curiosities. It seemed unlike Doctor North, a most sober gentleman, to behave in such a whimsical manner early in the morning.

Henry has been in a funk since he had woken up this morning. He had found the masquerade costume laid out for him, but in his mind those were his usual clothes. While he longs to spend the day with Elizabeth, which might snap him out of his foul mood, he feels that his first priority should be to prepare his invention for potential future use in case it is needed. With its chemical reservoirs discharged, it would not be able to save someone's life in the event of an emergency. The new formula he had acquired would have to wait as well.

Having had a restful night, following a pleasant night of chat and dominoes with their host and the interesting, if reserved, Miss Davenport. Elizabeth takes breakfast with the other guests. For a moment Dr North's odd dress confuses her but she quickly realises he has decided to dress for the masquerade at an early hour. She guesses it is nothing more than an ecentricity of the good doctor.
"Why sir, I see you are ready for the festivities"

She carefuly arranges her napkin,
"I had hoped you would escort me this afternoon to the Dupray house, but I fear you might spoil the suprise of your costume for the evening. Perhaps I could entreate Miss Davenport to accompany me?"

Lila is already feeling somewhat restless and anxious to undertake her nocturnal task, knowing that something strange is afoot. The sight of Doctor North in his finery at the breakfast table, providing an unwelcome reminder of the upcoming masquerade ball, only serves to heighten her tension.

Despite her misgivings she readily agrees to Miss Carrow's request to accompany her to the musical recital, glad of the distraction. Though she attended many such occasions during her previous life as an heiress it has been a number of years since the last time. Who knows, perhaps the music will enable her to relax and to temporarily forget the pain which drives her on.

MISS CARROW AND MISS DAVENPORT:

For a heart stopping instant, Elizabeth is convinced she has missed a note. Her blood freezing in her veins she swiftly gazes towards Miss Dupray, in search of a hint of dissapointment. But Miss Dupray's face stays enigmatic, providing no hint as to her feelings.

The moment passes and Elizabeth continues with a burst of sweetness that surely cannot have failed to impress. Although the words of the song, being French, mean little to her, she looks at her companion. Surely Miss Davenport, among her other accomplishments, can speak a few words of the language and therefore translate the piece for her.

Con Roll,[url=http://orokos.com/roll/426073]Constitution roll: 12[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]4[/b].

Wruter wrote:

Spoiler:

Intelligence check re lyrics 11+3 [dice]183622:0[/dice]

Intelligence check re fans 11 [dice]183622:1[/dice]

Priest wrote:

Con Roll,[url=http://orokos.com/roll/426073]Constitution roll: 12[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]4[/b]. I will use the point of Grace for a reroll, as I think this roll may be critical [url=http://orokos.com/roll/426076]Constitution roll: 12[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]3[/b] Blast it seems the fates are against me tonight.

Henry regrets not having gone with Elizabeth, but he knows that his work is important. He resolves to spend more time with her tomorrow. He is confused why she should think his clothing is supposed to be a surprise. This is how he dresses every day.

Following the performance, which it seems was well received, Elizabeth finds her attention drawn to the strange ryhme added to the sheet of music. She studies it hard, thinks about the possibilities, but finds herself unable to make any sense of it. Perhaps Miss Davenport will be able to assist her with this also?

She makes her way through the small gathering towards her companion, but finds herself led by the Duprays to their garden. It is all that Mr Harcourt had said; surely it is a garden to rival those of Kew, and amidst all the colour and rarity she spies the plant requested by Mr Harcourt. So to her hosts obvious suprise she fulfils the requirement of her mentor.

Lila has found the recital restful if melancholy at times and was impressed by Miss Carrow's vocal performance. Her attention was momentarily diverted during the song by a surreptitious gesture from Miss Dupray with her fan toward her twin brother. Though aware of the so-called language of fans used in high society, she is unable to grasp its meaning, having been absent from that world for so long.

Upon rejoining her companion before their departure she is pleased to be able to translate the song lyrics for her. The words, when spoken aloud, strike her as foreboding somehow. Are the Duprays more than they seem?

The riddle presents a further mystery. Lila ponders its meaning...

The ladies have chosen to share their information with each other and, presumably, anyone who might be interested in them.

The French song lyrics:

The pleasure of love lasts only a moment
The grief of love lasts a lifetime.

You gave me up for the beautiful Sylvia,
She is leaving you for another lover.

The pleasure of love lasts only a moment,
The grief of love lasts a lifetime.

"As long as this water will run gently
Towards this brook which borders the meadow,

I will love you", Sylvia told you repeatedly.
The water still runs, but she has changed.

The pleasure of love lasts only a moment,
The grief of love lasts a lifetime.

The riddle:

My FIRST is what thy lips must be,
If ever they be kissed;
My SECOND thou hast won from me,
But ne'er shall be missed;
My WHOLE I soon will be to thee;
O Love, do not resist!

After a moment's consideration Lila glances at Miss Carrow, wondering at such naivete. She finds it difficult to believe anyone could truly be such an innocent. "I believe the intent of this message is one of seduction," she says.

My FIRST is what thy lips must be,
If ever they be kissed; SWEET

My SECOND thou hast won from me,
But ne'er shall be missed; HEART

My WHOLE I soon will be to thee;
O Love, do not resist! SWEETHEART

It is evident that Miss Davenport has correctly deduced the meaning of the puzzling verse, although its author remains unknown. Having safely secured the sprig of monk's hood (which Miss Davenport is more familiar with under the name of wolf's bane,) the visiting ladies are returned to Harcourt House in time to prepare for the masquerade. In contrast to Doctor North, who has been in costume since morning, Mister Rachman has not yet given even a slight hint as to how he will be arrayed.

As the sun sets, and Mister Harcourt emerges from seclusion, Miss Carrow gives over possession of the plant. Mister Harcourt is very thankful, and places it in a safe place.

Guests begin to arrive. Although Miss Davenport nearly fades into the background with her simple domino mask, Miss Carrow is a vision as the ill-fated Anne Boleyn. She is dressed in a kirtle of crimson velvet and a robe of purple velvet, both richly decorated with ermine. On her head is a coronet and a cap festooned with pearls and other precious stones. (Whether these are truly ermine and gems, or clever imitations, would require an expert to determine.) An historian might point out that Anne was dark, and Miss Carrow is fair, but such pedantry would hardly be appropriate on this occasion.

Mister North's recreation of Sir Isaac Newton wins great admiration for its authenticity. Indeed, many remark that he truly seems to be living the part, and would make a fine actor.

Mister Harcourt appears a short time later in a simple chiton, as worn in ancient Greece. A wide swath of cloth is wrapped around his unique spectacles, completely hiding them from view. He wears sandals and carries a lyre. It seems clear that he has come in the guise of the blind poet Homer, with perhaps a bit of sardonic humor directed at his own infirmity. (As a practical matter, no doubt the cloth also protects his eyes from excessive light, as the masquerade requires Harcourt House to be illuminated with a larger number of candles than normal.)

The masquerade is an intimate one, as these affairs go. The guests engage in conversation, with witty remarks and flirtatious compliments exchanged as the common coin of society. There is a little dancing, ranging from the somewhat old-fashioned minuet to the more recent allemande. (The trio of musicians who accompany this activity is, perhaps, more enthusiastic than gifted.)

It is a peculiarity of the acoustics of the hall in which the masquerade takes place that private conversation is difficult, if not impossible. In many places it seems to act almost as a whispering gallery, such as is found in Saint Paul's Cathedral. One might be able to overhear many interesting conversations.

Mister North: I tell you that I invented the method of fluxions, and not that devil Leibniz!

A gentleman dressed as a shepherd: I believe you, my dear sir, I believe you! My word, you do take take your role seriously!

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Mister Harcourt: You will be ready to perform the ceremony when all the items have been assembled?

Mister Rachman: I will be ready, sir.


_______________________________________________________________________________________________

(Miss Davenport finds herself strangely drawn to a gentleman standing off by himself. His disguise is one which brings a shudder to sensitive souls. He wears simple black clothing which appears to be covered with dust. His skin has been rendered a sickly yellow-gray. Large fangs emerge from his mouth, and his hands bear long, curved claws. He has chosen the guise of a vampyre of the most repulsive type; the nosferatu of Romanian legend. Only after a moment is Miss Davenport absolutely sure that he is not truly one of the undead.)

The "vampyre": We must talk, you and I.

Miss Davenport: Not now! I must be off.

(Miss Davenport attempts to leave quietly.)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________

(The Duprays arrive a little later than the other guests. At first it seems that they have neglected to select costumes, and are wearing ordinary evening clothes. Upon closer inspection, it is discovered that the whimsical twins have come en travesti. Miss Dupray is wearing her brother's waistcoat and breeches, and Mister Dupray is wearing his sister's gown. When addressed, Miss Dupray answers in a deep voice, and Mister Dupray responds in falsetto. They approach Miss Carrow.)

"Miss" Dupray: Good evening, ma petite! How delightfully you portray the famous Queen!

Miss Carrow: Thank you, uh, sir, uh, madam, uh---

"Mister" Dupray: Don't lose your head, pretty one. Of course, you already did that, didn't you? To the King. That was some time after you lost your maidenhead to him.

("Miss" Dupray slaps "Mister" Dupray on the head with "her" fan.)

"Miss" Dupray: Wicked, wicked fellow! Please forgive my foul-minded brother, my dear. Come away with me, and we will speak of nicer things.

("Miss" Dupray takes Miss Carrow by the hand. It is a fine point of etiquette as to whether "her" disguise renders this act of intimacy acceptable or not.)

__________________________________________________________________________________

These various encounters are soon interrupted by an unexpected visitor . . .

Henry pauses from the tale he is recounting to his fellow guests of his exploits in hunting down counterfeiters as part of his duties while in charge of the Royal Mint and turns to see who this mysterious new arrival is.

Elizabeth is enjoying the festivities enormously, as it seems are all. The skill that Mary has used in the creation of her costume speaks of a wonderous ability which would not be misplaced amongst the finest dressmakers of the city. She does her best to play the role of the great beauty that not only became wife to King Henry VIII, but the mother of the probably the greatest ruler of England, Queen Eizabeth I herself.

The irony of names does not fail to amuse her, and for a brief moment she thinks perhaps she should have chosen the 'Virgin Queen' instead. However, such musings are quickly disturbed by the arrival of the Duprays, and for a few moment she is confused by the Dupray's choice of costume. Is this a joke? If it is she fails to see the humour.

Across the room she can see Miss Davenport seemingly in conversation with the most oddly dressed fellow, but she is quickly lost to view as the Dupray's descend upon her.

Whilst speaking with the 'reverse' Duprays she ifinds herself slightly alarmed by the overfamiliarity of Mr, or should that be Miss, Duprays touch, but decides that the rules of Maquerade probably permit such departure from social norms. Smiling, her face displaying the excitement of the hour, Elizabeth allows 'Miss' Dupray to escort her...

Lila is almost beginning to enjoy the ball until she notices the vampyre. For a heart-stopping moment she is transported back to that terrible time and the images of love and hate which still haunt her every night. The realization that the man is simply wearing a costume is only scant relief and, suddenly flustered, she forces her mind toward her impending task. As the rest of the guests' attentions are distracted by a new arrival she takes the opportunity to slip away unnoticed.

After spending a restful night, Duncan spends his morning wandering the grounds of Harcourt Hall looking to see if he can find any plants or herbs of interest to his studies.
He finds himself drawn to a beautifully shaped willow tree, in one corner of the garden, by an ornamental pond. Hidden underneath the skirt of the willows fronds, in the dappled light and shade,Duncan feels almost as if he was under the shaded canopy of Home and spends a pleasant hour lost in thoughts of home and meditating on current events.

Feeling more centred after his morning Duncan heads back to his room to prepare for the coming masquerade, not something he has been looking forward to. Never being at his most comfortable in large groups and not being fully conversant with the nuances, by which so many people here, live their lives. But certainly not wishing to give offence to his generous host, he feels he must attend. So deciding to stay, at least on some sort of familiar ground, he will attend as Faust, the man who sold hid Soul to the devil for wisdom and humanly pleasures.

Dressed in a long black cape with a renaissance style flat cap , holding a long stave and a scroll made up to look like his pact with the devil, he enters the ball. To his relief the event does not seem to be of the overwhelming proportions he has heard they can reach. He wanders the room passing brief pleasantries with those he encounters.

He finds Miss Carrow dressed in her finery amidst a crowd, like a lantern drawing moths. He manoeuvres through them bows and takes her hand and kisses the back of it, “ Your Majesty, a consummate pleasure to meet you. I am but your humble servant.” Smiling he stands and after quick introductions to the surrounding guest moves on.

Shortly he comes across Miss Davenport in conversation with someone dressed as a vampyre. It becomes apparent, from her furtive glances,she wishes to be else where. He steps in “ Good evening Miss Carrow, a pleasure as always.” turning to face the creature “ Good evening to you Sir, a most unusual costume you have chosen for yourself, Is it true you vampyres can turn yourselves into bats” he says clasping his cloak and raising his arms like wings, Shielding miss Carrow briefly. “ Ah, my good friend doctor North is over there, please excuse me” he says with a bow and moves off quickly.

Walking over to Dr. North, he finds him in animated discussion with another gentleman. “ Good evening Doctor... I mean Sir isacc. I hope your are enjoying the evening?” Just at that moment there is a whispered murmur around the room and all eyes turn to the door.

MISS DAVENPORT:

Upon sight of the grisly apparition Lila draws her dagger but in the next moment is struck by a wave of nausea from its putrescence and begins to gag. Feeling her senses weakening, she clutches the macabre object she has unearthed and scrambles to remount her horse...

Wruter wrote:

Spoiler:

Charisma check re horse: 6+3[dice]183666:0[/dice]

Intelligence check re object: 11+1[dice]183666:1[/dice]

Constitution check re nausea: 8[dice]183666:2[/dice]

Before the sudden arrival of an unexpected person, the Duprays could be heard engaged in lively conversation. The one in a beautiful gown discussed the latest French fashions, and gossiped. (Was it true that Miss Carrow had a secret admirer?) The one in waistcoat and breeches discussed hunting and politics. (There was heated debate over whose fault the loss of the American colonies had been.) All of this activity allowed Miss Davenport to arrive surreptitiously. If she appeared a bit disheveled, that was consistent with her questionable reputation. If curiosity was raised by the wooden box she carried, covered with dirt as it was, it was not yet satisfied. The box was given to Mister Harcourt, who placed it in a secure place away from prying eyes. This was not yet the time or place to discuss Miss Davenport's difficulties in obtaining it.

A moment later . . .

The front door to Harcourt House crashes open. All eyes turn to see a woman in Gypsy garb standing at the threshold. Her dress is a riot of rainbow colors. She wears rings on every finger and bracelets on each wrist. Her hair cascades below her waist in black curls streaked with white, like bolts of lightning in the night sky. Her skin is dark and smooth, her features sharp. Although she is no longer young, she is very beautiful. But this is neither the gentle beauty of Miss Carrow nor the haunting beauty of Miss Davenport. This is the beauty of a wild creature, the beauty of a she-wolf. She enters the hall, slams the door shut behind her, and strides boldly up to Mister Harcourt.

"You know why I come," she says.

"I assure you that all will be well," Mister Harcourt replies. "There is no need for concern."

"So you say. Know this, William. If he die, I kill you." With that she makes her way back to the door. Before she has reached it, however, she notices a young lady who has chosen to attend the masquerade in the guise of a Gypsy. Her dark eyes flash with anger for a moment, then she tilts her head back and roars with laughter.

"You wish to be Gypsy? I show you!"

She walks over to the musicians and raises her hands over her head.

"Play!"

The musicians murmur to each other for a while, then begin a lively tune. The woman dances, her arms swinging so wildly that the guests have to back away from her to give her room. She leaps and spins, her dress twirling around her, shamelessly revealing her calves and ankles. When she is finished, her face is shiny with perspiration, her hair a tangle covering her face.

"That is how you be Gypsy!"

The woman exits Harcourt House, leaving behind the startled guests.

As the attendees begin to leave, and Mister Harcourt's guests retire for the evening, their host could be heard speaking softly to himself, in a tone of longing.

"Magda . . . Magda . . ."

"Well..." whispers Elizabeth her voice subdued in awe. The dramatic appearance of the Gypsy and her subsequent performance, one which seemed to break all acceptable society norms for appropriate behaviour, caused her innocent face to flush. She was unsure whether to be shocked or excited by the display, but was glad that the moment had taken the attention of the Dupray's, along with the other assembled guests. Taking advantage of the moment she moved away from the twins towards Dr North.

It seemed that the dramatic performance signalled the end of the party, for indeed how could one follow that. As the guests left, Elizabeth courteously avoiding the Duprays, moved to the side of Dr North.

Henry had nearly been moved to tears when he saw what was obviously Mr. Harcourt pining for his lost love, but he visibly brightens when Elizabeth approaches. "Ah, Miss Carrow!" he says, a rare smile on his face. "It is so good to see you again. Is there anything I can do for you?"

Duncan watches the exchange between the anarchic woman and Mr Harcourt.
“It would appear there is yet more to this tale than we know.” he says to Dr. North.

As the band strikes up and the woman starts to dance, Duncan is mesmerised by the wild abandon of her dance. Compared to the restrained decorous dancing that had filled the evening, this commanded your attention, as the shocked and in some cases yearning looks proved.

As the woman departs, the room is filled with murmured whispering and glances amongst the guests. As they begin to leave Miss Carrow approaches Dr. North, who visibly brightens and greets her.

Duncan Bows and Smiles “ Quite a display, do you not think Miss Carrow? Almost Elemental. Very different, but reminiscent of dances from my home.”

Elizabeth, putting on her brightest smile to cover her flushed look, speaks first to the splendidly costumed Dr North, "Ah there you are. I had hoped you would rescue me from the attentions of the Dupray's, but it seems the strange Gypsy woman has done that for me". She watches as the reverse dressed twins disapear through the front door in search for their carriage.

She turns to Mr Rachman's comment, allowing him the full benefit of her smile, "Ah Mr Rachman I believe, we have had little time for introductions I'm afraid"

She finds herself fascinated by the strange looking man, "Indeed it was a most...interesting dance, if not a little too unconstained for polite audiences" She fans herself animatedly aware of the rising heat of her cheeks. "Reminiscent of the dances of your homeland you say, that being? And Gentlemen, please call me Elizabeth I think we have spent enough time in each others company to allow that little breach of etiquette"

Elizabeth glances around at the rapidly thinning crowd, as if in search of someone, "So Gentlemen, did you observe the entrance of dear Miss Davenport? She looked in a most frighful state, and I wonder what the contents of that package she presented to Mr Harcourt was?"

Lila, ignoring the dubious glances being cast at her disheveled appearance, listens to the conversation of her fellow guests with half an ear, but her gaze is fixed upon the forlorn figure of their host. Like Miss Carrow she can only wonder as to the purpose of the item she was sent to retrieve. And what role does this Magda play? The Gypsy's spectacular dance had left the mannered former-heiress part of her dumbfounded while another, deeply hidden part marveled enviously at such an uninhibited free spirit.

The next day is Sunday. After all of the excitement of the previous evening, it is something of a relief to wake to a peaceful Sabbath. Mister Harcourt's small chapel is available for those who wish to spend some time in prayer and meditation.

The four guests awake refreshed. Doctor North may have a vague feeling that he was not quite himself yesterday. Miss Davenport would most likely welcome a day of rest, after certain strenuous activities during the night.

A servant announces that Mister Harcourt will not leave the seclusion of his room that evening, and that they should not expect to see him until the next night. His guests are free to spend today as they please, in anticipation of a busy evening tomorrow.

A groom regretfully announces that Miss Davenport's horse has died of its wounds. He will dispose of the remains appropriately. Other steeds are available for her use as needed.

Elizabeth had spent a restless night filled with strange dreams in which a Gypsy woman, with the face of Mr Dupray, danced wildly with their host. To be interupted at the moment of the dances climax by Miss Davenport, her face as grey as the Vampyre costumed guest, handing him a wooden box. A wooden box that in her dream grew in size untill it was as large as a coffin. As the dream faded and daylight crept into her conciousness she could hear a voice calling "Magda" over and over.

Awake and dressed, all thoughts of dreams banished by the dawn of a Sunday, Elizabeth breakfasts and then takes advantage of the small chapel, even though she finds it somewhat spartan in its decor. In this she finds herself accompanied by Dr North, who seems more himself this morning the severity of his mood packed away with the costume he wore.

Taking her ease with a gentle stroll in the gardens she ponders on the strange happenings of the previous night. She thinks to ask the good doctor his opinion, but it seems his memories may also have been packed away.

At the news of her horse's death Lila feels a twinge of guilt and regret that a good creature's life has ended in her service. She has always loved horses and, though she has experienced the mortality of beloved animals--not to mention people--in the past, still the loss is keen

She seeks peace in the chapel, the quiet allowing her to meditate on the events of the past few days. Noting Miss Carrow and Doctor North departing for a stroll together she finds herself wishing she too could enjoy the simple pleasure of companionship yet knowing she has chosen her lonely path. Her thoughts drift back to the wild Gypsy woman apparently called Magda who so perturbed their host and employer at the ball. Recalling mention of a Gypsy encampment nearby she considers making an excursion to see if she can learn more of this flamboyant individual and thence perhaps some of the mystery surrounding the reclusive Mister Harcourt. Perhaps this afternoon or tomorrow if the opportunity arises.

In the meantime, she decides to spend some time recovering from her exertions of the previous night with a quiet morning browsing the books in the house library. Perhaps she will find a tome or two of demonological interest.

MISS DAVENPORT:
The chapel is very sparsely furnished. There is a simple wooden cross on on wall and a single wooden bench. (Apparently Mister Harcourt is very Low Church.)

The morning is bright but not excessively warm. A leisurely stroll through the garden (which is refreshingly modest, containing only the familiar flora of the English countryside, compared with the exotic garden of the Duprays) is the perfect way to spend the early hours. (One thing that both gardens have in common: neither contains a black rose.) During this pleasant interlude, one of the grooms walks quickly up to the guests.

"Beg pardon," he says, cap in hand, "but I thought someone ought to know, seein' as the Master's not about. It's the lady's 'orse, ya see. It's been, well . . . et."

You may examine the evidence if you wish.

In any case, on returning to Harcourt House at midday, the guests will find that four playing cards have been left on the dining table. Upon examination, a handwritten message is found on the reverse of each.



Do not trust him.



The one who seeks you is near.



The one you seek is not far.



Your quest is in vain.

Not long afterwards, there is a knock on the front door. When it is opened, two rather slovenly men can be seen standing without. Seeing the assembled guests, the larger of the two, apparently the spokesman, steps forward.

"Please tell Mister 'Arcourt that the item we 'andled for 'im is missin'."

"Not our fault," says the other. "Buried it good 'n' proper."

"'Old yer tongue, ya fool."

With that they make their leave.

With all of this, and the suggestion made by Miss Davenport that another visit to the Gypsy camp may be profitable, it would seem that the guests should decide which of these mysteries to investigate, and in what manner.

Henry is truly enjoying his time with Elizabeth. He is happy in her presence for the first time in ages, and he is melancholy whenever they are apart. He wonders if perhaps he is falling in love. The song she had performed at the recital, which he had sadly missed, reminded him of how painful love could be. That pain seemed to last forever, compared to the brief pleasure he had had when Julia had been alive. He was not a very religious man, but he did believe in God. The world had obviously not created itself, and someone had to be the author of the natural laws, which were so elegant in their simplicity. And of course, Elizabeth's very existence was all the proof anyone could need of God's existence. She made him want to be a better person. He did not know why God had taken his late wife and their son away from him, but he could understand that God might want them with Him. He had prayed in the chapel for wisdom, understanding, and guidance. Then the groom had interrupted their stroll with the news about the horse.

"I shall examine the horse at once," he says. "Elizabeth, you are welcome to accompany me," he says, "but I'll understand fully if you would rather not. It is likely to be a gruesome sight."

DOCTOR NORTH:

Henry examines the dead horse with a keen scientific eye, looking to determine what manner of creature inflicted its fatal wounds.

OOC,Intelligence roll (12 + 1 = 13 ability) examining the dead horse: [dice]0[/dice]

For a brief moment Elizabeth considers before in question to the groom she says, "Et? What do you mean...Et?"

However before the slightly out of breath groom can answer, she smiles at the doctor, "Of course I will accompany you, and fear not we Carrows are made of stern stuff" she finishes her statement with a small, musical laugh..

It is impossible to spend any amount of time in London in these busy, modern times without encountering the body of a deceased horse. It is simply a fact of life in the dizzying pace of commerce that fills the streets of the crowded city day and night. Thus, although the sight is not a pleasant one, Miss Carrow is not excessively distressed.

If anything, in fact, the dead animal is less disturbing than one might expect. This is because nearly all of its flesh and viscera have been removed, leaving a jumble of bones, hair, hooves, and so on.

"What ya think done it?" The groom inquires. "Wolf? Bear?"

Doctor North's careful examination of the marks left on the bones reveals that the animal which devoured the horse had sharp teeth and claws, but not of very great size. Many of the larger bones have been cracked open and the marrow removed.

The only prints which surround the body are human ones, barefooted. This does not reveal anything, since the grooms often go about without shoes in the warm part of the year.

If one had to speculate as to the nature of the beast responsible, given its apparent size, one could almost imagine some sort of carnivorous primate, which is absurd.

There is a scent of corrupted flesh in the air, which is far more pronounced than one would expect from the small amount of tissue left behind and the short time that the horse has been dead.

Doctor North's careful observations also reveal signs that the tall grass between the stable and the abandoned outbuilding has been disturbed, and that traces of dried blood have been left on the ground between the two structures.

MISS DAVENPORT:

Emerging from the library at midday, Lila wonders at the playing cards left on the dining table and their ominous messages. Four cards for four guests. But which message is intended for which guest? It strikes her that Gypsies may dabble in such fortune telling. Her resolve to visit the camp for herself this afternoon is firmed and she prepares to set forth. She pockets the cards.

Observing the two men at the front door and their enigmatic message, though unable to infer what this buried item may be, she once more ponders their host's motivations.

After spending the morning enjoying the weather and meditating on passing events at Harcourt hall. Duncan decides to go and see how Dr. North’s investigation of the deceased horse is progressing.

Upon arriving at the stable, Duncan is somewhat shocked by the condition of the corpse, having seen the results of leopard attacks at home. Talking to the doctor reveals what he has discovered from his examination. It seem to make little sense, the small size and footprints, why no paw prints? and the smell is overwhelming, something just doesn’t sit right in Duncan’s mind and a cold shiver runs down his spine.

When the Doctor points out the blood and trail leading away from the scene. Duncan declares that he will follow it. If some beast has come into the Halls ground and fed like this, it may well be inclined to return. He heads back to his room to fetch his stoutest cane. upon passing through the hall he discovers the cards and thier cryptic messages, mysteriously left.

Events here are becoming more tangled than mangrove roots. The cards he recognises as tarrot cards, but he knows little more of their meaning, maybe there would be a book covering the subject in the library. But for now he collects his cane and heads back to the stable and the trail of blood.

It had occurred to Henry that if he had concocted the formula he had been given, he might have tried using it to restore the horse to life, at least temporarily. He didn't have it ready, and by the time he could produce it, the horse would have been dead too long for it to be effective. It was too large an animal, regardless. Also, one look at the horse - or what was left of it - told him that it would have been in vain anyway.

"I had suspected wolves at the outset," says Henry, looking up from his examination, "but this is not their work. Whatever beast did this has sharp teeth and claws, but it isn't very large. There are no animal tracks, though, just the prints of bare feet, possibly of the grooms. Whatever did this resembles a man, but is not a man. If I had to guess, I would say some sort of ape, but of course there are none anywhere near here. There are traces of the creature leaving in that direction." He indicates the trail of blood. "If you wish to hunt it, Dr. Rachman, you should not go alone. I would go with you. Elizabeth, I would welcome your company, though this may be dangerous."

For a moment Elizabeth looks at the butchered remains of the horse, she has seen worse, but there is something unsettling about these remains. She considers turning down the doctor's invitation, yet the fires of curiosity are burning strongly within her. Surely with two strong and capable gentlemen to guard her against whatever beast did this, she has little to fear. Dr North mentioned bear or wolves, yet surely there are no bears of wolves left in England, still she is hard pressed to think of any indigenous predator capable of such carnage. She recalls seeing the aftermath of a fox attack on chicken house prior to her relocation with her aunt, but no fox would be able to inflict such savagery on an animal as large as a horse.

With a last look at the remains she turns, smiling, to the doctor, "I doubt that I need fear with such brave men to protect me" she includes the strange Mr Rachman in her smile, "I shall willingly accompany you. I trust that you both are suitably armed, if we should happen upon a ferocious beast? Or should I armed with my parasol protect us all?" She finishes her words with a small, musical, laugh.

It is a simple matter to follow the trial through the high grass to the deserted outbuilding. Not far away there is evidence of the ground having been disturbed. It appears as if a long, shallow pit had been dug, then filled in, then torn open again. Upon closer examination of the pit, a pile of human bones, in the same condition as those of the horse, are found. The remains of clothing, torn into shreds, reveal that this is the body of the young highwayman. There is no sign that whatever creature might be responsible for this destruction left the area after doing its work; the trail does not continue in any direction, and it would have been impossible for it to travel without disturbing the grass.

There would seem to be nothing to do for the moment but to return to Harcourt House for a light midday meal. The servants make it clear that Mister Harcourt cannot be disturbed for any reason until tomorrow night.

The four guests are free to engage in speculation about the events they have witnessed, and as to the meaning of the messages left on the four cards. As there would seem to be nothing else detaining them for the rest of the day, there will most likely be general agreement that a visit to the Gypsy camp that afternoon might not be without profit. If nothing else, it would be an act of common courtesy to warn them that a dangerous beast may be in the area.

Lila is quietly glad that the other guests will accompany her to the camp. Parlaying with Gypsy folk is not a skill either her noble upbringing nor her demon hunter training has gifted her. Miss Carrow in particular may possess the common charm she herself lacks.

Upon hearing their account of the violated corpse of her horse, she realizes that the signs match those of the description of the creature she learned in the library, which she encountered in the churchyard the previous night, and decides to inform the other guests of the possible presence of a Ghoulish Revenant in the area. She is unsure of how they will react to being told of supernatural affairs but feels it is best they are warned. Ghoulish Revenants are the cursed and reanimated corpses of those who ate human flesh while alive. They hunger for flesh, preferably human. They do not care if it is fresh or rotted, and will happily despoil a graveyard if no living prey is available.

Now that she knows what the creature is her hunter's instincts tell her she will be compelled to attempt to vanquish it sooner or later.

It is a short and pleasant walk to the Gypsy camp. Recognizing Miss Carrow and Doctor North from their previous visit, the inhabitants are friendly, no doubt expecting to earn more coins. Very soon, however, Magda emerges from the largest and most elaborately decorated of the wagons. She confronts the visitors directly.

"Why William send you here? What you wish?"

Elizabeth listens to Lila's warning, but does not truly understand what she is being told. Some vile undead creature who preys upon human flesh, she shudders involuntarily as if someone had just walked over her grave. For a moment she thinks to challenge the notion, but decides to ignore the idea, prefering to believe the events the work of some natural creature of flesh and bone rather than some flesh hungering monster from nightmare.

She is still wrestling with the thought when the Gypsy woman from the masquerade suddenly appears, "Sent...William...no one sent us madam we merely wished to visit the camp"

"Miss Carrow is correct," adds Dr. North. "We have come back of our own accord, and we have brought a couple of our friends with us: Miss Davenport and Mr. Rachman. We also wanted to warn you that a dangerous beast is in the area." He is not sure he believes the talk about Ghoulish Revenants, but he lacks any other explanation, and he has seen something else recently that defies explanation as well. In any case, he thinks it best to let Miss Davenport describe the creature, as she is the expert on the subject.

Lila steps forward at the prompting of Doctor North and, despite feeling somewhat intimidated by this wild Gypsy woman, begins to recount the odd happenings around Harcourt House.

"One gathers from your, ahem, interjection at the ball last night that you and our host are acquainted with each other," she says. "We have no wish to pry into your private affairs, of course, but if there is anything you can tell us which may assist in our travails I am sure we would be most grateful."

"There is one other matter," Lila adds, taking out the playing cards. "These arrived mysteriously. Perhaps you or your people are aware of their meaning?"

Magda does not seem overly surprised by the description of the creature.

"Dead follow Gypsies," she says, somewhat mysteriously.

She examines the cards. "Playthings." She briefly looks at the backs of the cards, but it is obvious that the messages written there mean nothing to her. It seems likely that she is completely illiterate.

One by one she hands a card to each of the guests.

The one bearing the title Le Bateleur (which Miss Davenport can translate as "the mountebank") she gives to Mister Rachman. "You are trickster, I think. This card is yours."

The one called L'Amoureux ("the lovers") she gives to Miss Carrow. She wears a sly smile. "You have lover, no? This card is yours."

The one named La Force ("strength") she gives to Miss Davenport. "You are strong woman. This card is yours."

The card with no name, whose image is familiar to all, she gives to Doctor North. "This is your enemy. This card is yours."

In a much softer voice than usual, she asks "Will Davros live?"

Assured that he is recovering from his wound, she regains her confident manner.

"Good. I not lie. If he die, I kill William." She seems to consider the visitors for a moment.

"You are his friends. You must know. Long ago, William is married. His wife go mad. She do very bad things. William is sad. My people come here. He come to see." She pauses for a moment.

"Because I am Gypsy, because I am woman, because I dance, men think I am whore." She turns her head to spit on the ground. "Not William. He talk gentle words. He come to me many times." She is lost in thought for a while.

"I give him sons, as woman should. His wife die. He wish to marry, but I am Gypsy. I must journey always. I go away, take his sons. One is good boy. When he is grown, I come back, take him to father. He is Davros." There is another pause in her story, and she seems distressed.

"Other son is bad. I not speak his name. He run away, break my heart. That is why I kill William if Davros die. Then I kill myself." She seems to cheer up a bit. "But you say he live. Good! Then I go away. Tell William I love him, but I am Gypsy. I must be free."

With that, she turns away from her visitors and returns to her wagon.

"What do you mean?", asks Elizabeth, "Dead follow Gypsies" She assumes Magada is referring to the Revenant, or whatever, Lila called it. So is the Gypsy suggesting that such things exist? Now she is really confused, yet still chooses to believe that some kind of natural creature is involved content to leave the supernatural to children's tales and to the works of poets and drug fueled authors.

When Lila produces the strange cards for the Gypsy to interpret, she is intrigued. However Magda's presumption that the card she refers to as 'The Lovers' could in any way relate to her startles her. Her cheeks redden and flush, perhaps with annoyance at the inference, or unconcious desire, she cannot tell.
"Madam, please I do believe this card refers to someone else. I have no lover"

"What do you mean?", asks Elizabeth, "Dead follow Gypsies?"

"The hunting woman can tell you."

"Madam, please I do believe this card refers to someone else. I have no lover."

"Woman can have lover and not know."

Elizabeth watches in confused silence as the Gypsy woman dissappears inside her wagon. With each declaration, Elizabeth's confusion deepens. She assumes that by 'Hunting Woman' Magda is referring to Lila, so obviously Lila knows more than she is telling. Elizabeth glances towards her trying to understand the level of trustworthiness to be found in someone who until very recently had been unknown.

She looks away turning her gaze to Dr North, was he this mysterious lover of which she does not know? She acknowledges that his attention has become somewhat oppresive, yet at no time has he attempted anything improper. Or does the Gypsy know something she does not? Mr Harcourt had alluded to knowing the identity of her secret admirer, is this knowledge something that the Gypsy shares? She decides to broach the subject to Mr Harcourt later. For the moment she awaits whatever developments will flow from the visit to the Gypsy camp...

Lila turns the playing card over in her hands, reading the message written thereon with skepticism. The one you seek is not far. Could it be...? But no, she dismisses the thought immediately. In any event, from Magda's reaction it seems the Gypsies were not the authors of these messages. In which case, who is toying with the guests in this manner?

Dead follow Gypsies... Yes, she is aware that for reasons unknown the restless dead are drawn to Gypsy people, so Magda speaks the truth in this regard. Noting Miss Carrow's suspicious glance in her direction, Lila mutters a brief explanation of this phenomenon which is not common knowledge outside of demon hunter circles.

The revelation of Davros' parentage, whom she had assumed was a simple servant, also leaves her somewhat nonplussed. She does not recall seeing the man since the night of their arrival at Harcourt House, but then she has had other concerns occupying her attention.

All in all, this visit has raised more questions than answers, leaving her to ponder...

Henry examines the Death card. "I won't give up on my quest just because some anonymous stranger says it's in vain," he declares before speaking to Magda as she leaves. "Davros will live, do not worry. One of the highwaymen wounded him as he brought us into this area in the coach, but I was able to stop the bleeding and save his life."

When the four guests arrive back at Harcourt House, the sun has nearly set. Things seem to be in something of an uproar. Servants are running hither and yon. All attempts to rouse Mister Harcourt, still in seclusion in his room, have failed. The servants are reluctant to break his door down. Davros has left his sickbed, but is only able to take a few steps before collapsing.

Before the guests can inquire as to what peculiar circumstances have led to this ado, they are greeted by the gentleman who was disguised as a vampyre during the masquerade. He still wears simple black clothing, but now it is clean. His skin is no longer discolored by paint, and the fangs and claws are gone.

"I trust you all received my messages? Forgive me for being somewhat mysterious, but there are certain parties who might take unwarranted interest were I to be specific. In particular, I must warn you against --"

A mighty crash shatters one of the windows. The man is struck down. Upon examination, it is clear that a large, blunt object -- later found to be an ordinary rock -- has smashed into his head. Although he is not dead, it is obvious that he will be unconscious for some time. A servant rushes to the window to report finding a slingshot on the ground, and someone running away quickly.

As if all this commotion were not enough, Cook appears from the kitchen in a state of frenzy.

"Mary's gone missin'! No trace to be found, like them other girls. And the Master dead to the world. What's to be done?"

Indeed; what is to be done?

Still confused by the visit to the gypsy camp and Magda's cryptic words, Elizabeth finds her confusion deepened by the events at the House. What is happening?
The sudden appearance of a now human looking gentleman, to whom she has not been introduced, almost sends her senses into a mad whirl. What messages and warn against what or who?
Then with a smashing of glass the stranger is struck down before he can finish his words.

At this turn of events she feels the very room begin to spin and the ground turn to liquid beneath her feet, darkness starts to cloud her vision. Yet, before her senses fade entirely she hears the frenzied entrance of the cook and her mournful cry,

Previously cook said:   "Mary's gone missin'! No trace to be found, like them other girls. And the Master dead to the world. What's to be done?"

OOC:   I thought Elizabeth might faint at this point, for dramatic effect.

From his abruptly interrupted words Lila realizes this gentleman must be responsible for the cryptic messages on the playing cards. But who or what was he trying to warn them against? Standing over the prone form she looks to the passing servants. "Does anybody know the identity of this man?" she asks.

At Cook's sudden entrance she glances sharply at the servant. "Other girls, madam? Pray, to which other girls do you refer?"

From the corner of her eye she sees Miss Carrow begin to sway...

His gaze never far from Elizabeth, Henry moves quickly to catch her in case she falls before going to check on the stranger who warned them and Davros.

Duncan seeing the Dr. looking after the injured man after catching miss carrow, will give chase after the fleeing attacker.

Doctor North's medical examination of the mysterious stranger reveals that his life is not in danger, but that he cannot be expected to regain consciousness for a few days. The servants will convey him to an unused guest room. None of them are familiar with him.

Davros is recovering well, but is still too weak to travel. He is greatly disappointed that he will be unable to pursue the attacker, or to engage in a search for Mary.

Cook reveals that, over the last several months, two young women in attendance at one of the musical salons held at the home of the Duprays have disappeared. One was presumed to have eloped with a gentleman friend, the other run off to London to pursue a career as a harpist. Neither has been heard from since.

Despite Mister Rachman's quick action, there is no time to stop the unknown attacker, not even by preternatural means. Only a glimpse of a figure in waistcoat and breeches is seen dashing off into the night, followed by the sound of hoofbeats. Tracking the attacker might be possible, but none of the servants are eager to undertake a difficult and dangerous task.

A few brisk pats on the hand are enough to revive Miss Carrow from her swoon.

"It seems our mysterious stranger is the one who left the cards for us," says Henry. "Now we should find the other mysterious stranger who struck him down. We'll need horses of our own. I wonder if perhaps that was the leader of the highwaymen. I don't know if he has aught to do with Mary's disappearance, but it's one of the few clues we have. We must find her, and we must also protect Elizabeth and stay with her at all times, to ensure that she does not go missing as well. Like the other women, she has also attended the musical salon at the Duprays' house."

A groom is willing to ready four horses, if not to join the search. The animals seem nervous, but can be controlled; for the moment, anyway. There is not much time to spare, lest the villain escape. However, it would be advisable to quickly collect the equipment needed. (Someone should carry a lantern, despite the bright moonlight.)

Upon hearing Cook's tale Lila is at first inclined to believe Mary has simply eloped of her own accord; however recalling the presence of a Ghoulish Revenant in the locality begins to fear these missing women may have fallen victim to such a creature. She is more eager to search for any traces of supernatural involvement in Mary's disappearance than this unknown attacker: demons are her prey, not men. But at Doctor North's urging to protect Miss Carrow from the same fate by staying together, she quickly collects her haversack of hunting equipment, which includes a lantern with oil, and mounts one of the horses. She will remain watchful for any signs of demonic activity.

"What happened?" Elizabeth, although a little groggy, quickly regains her composure, just in time to hear dear Henry's show of concern for her well being. She smiles sweetly at him, in truth his concern is touching and whilst his attentions can seem a little oppressive at times, there is no doubt that the good doctor has her welfare at heart.

Of course she has no desire to be left safely at home, curiosity alone would force her to accompany the hunting group. Luckily she has some skill at riding from her occasional riding to the hounds, before circumstances changed her lifestyle dramaticaly.

She watches as the others quickly gather their supplies for the hunt, she of course has little to gather, unlike Lila who seems to have a well stuffed haversack. But stuffed with what? She has no idea.

With a gracious smile, she, now fully recovered from her earlier fit of vapours, allows the groom to help her into the saddle. "Well shall we be off?" and turning the horse with a firm pressure on the reins moves off at a brisk trott, her gentle laugh floating behind...

The four brave adventurers take off into the night. But where? At first it is evident in which direction the attacker has absconded; but soon the natural confusion of hoofprints caused by the various comings and goings of travelers makes tracking difficult. Fortunately, there is one among the party with experience in such matters. The other three will, of course, be allowed to assist, but since tracking is more a matter of experience and intuition than sheer observation, they will find this to be extremely challenging.
Not long afterwards, a horrible stench, as if a vast pile of rotting corpses were nearby, fills the air. The horses appear frightened.

Henry can't help but notice the stench, but he is made of strong stuff and has always had solid physical health. The imbalance in his humours that no doubt is responsible for his mood swings does not hamper him in this regard. He is not the best horseman, but like any noble, he has done plenty of riding and is able to keep his horse under control.

OOC,Tracking roll (Wisdom 11 - 10[untrained] + 1[True Innocent] = 2): [dice]0[/dice] Constitution roll (14 + 1[True Innocent] = 15): [dice]1[/dice] Charisma roll (9 + 1[True Innocent] = 10): [dice]2[/dice]

The sudden stench makes Elizabeth gag slightly, "What is that?" She reaches into a pocket of her coat and pulls a scented silk handkerchief from within. She holds the kerchief to her nose breathing in the scent of roses. No doubt also affected by the obnoxious smell her horse, eyes rolling and nostrils flaring wide, attempts to bolt from the area, however Elizabeth maintains control and holds the fearful beast steady...

Fortuna is indeed a fickle goddess. She bestows blessings with one hand and curses with the other.

All of the mounts have been kept under control, although they are clearly terrified. Miss Carrow struggles valiantly with her beast, and it may break away at any moment. Meanwhile, Miss Davenport seems to be on the verge of deciphering the confusing hoofprints, but is having difficulty. Mister Rachman seems to be fighting off a spell of incapacitating nausea.

MISS CARROW:
While the outcome of these events is still in some doubt, the adventurers are startled to see a hideous creature approach at great speed. It appears to be a completely naked woman, her hair a filthy, tangled mess, clotted with gore. Her dead-white skin is mottled with patches of yellow and purple, as if her body is bruised and rotting. Her teeth are unnaturally large and sharp, and her hands and feet bear long, curved claws. From her mouth a thick fluid drips to the ground. She seems intent on attack, and, like all evil beings, is particularly drawn to those who possess True Innocence. It is a creature with which Miss Davenport is all too familiar . . .

Upon sight of the hateful Revenant speeding towards an off-balance Miss Carrow, Lila's instincts take over and she moves to strike first...

MISS DAVENPORT:

From horseback Lila slashes at the creature's head with her silver dagger...

Duncan is unable to make any sence of the jumble of tracks, when the creature rushes forth. He is suddenly overcome with the vile stench of its corruption and can feel his stomach churn with the assault on his sences. By some miricle he manages to stay seated on his horse and sees the abomination race towards Miss Carrow. As Miss Davenport draws a blade and slashes at the creature, Duncan calls out something in Javanese.

Henry does not need to be a doctor or examine the creature closely to be able to tell that it is dead, in spite of the fact that it is still somehow moving. However, chickens are also known to run around for the while after their heads have been cut off, so something like this is not outside the realm of possibility, he rationalizes. All he cares about right now is Elizabeth's safety. He draws his pistol and takes aim at the monstrosity, waiting until Lila has ridden past and is out of the line of fire before pulling the trigger. It is Elizabeth's inspiration that causes his aim to be true, and the ball strikes the creature in the center of mass.

OOC,[b]Lila[/b]'s Tracking roll should succeed (barely), counting the +1 she gets for being near a True Innocent. Dexterity roll (10 + 1[True Innocent] = 11), shooting at the Ghoulish Revenant: [dice]0[/dice] Damage to Ghoulish Revenant from pistol: [dice]1[/dice]

A dim light appears around Miss Carrow, which seems in some strange way benign. Perhaps this is because the creature snarls at it, as if it is enraged. It seems to be fighting off its power.
The power of its evil is stronger than the protecting light, which fades away.

As the loathsome being approaches Miss Carrow, Miss Davenport's dagger slashes open its face. A large piece of rotten flesh falls from its cheek, revealing its jaw bones. This does not appear to deter it from its goal. The creature makes inarticulate, slurping sounds of pain, but it has not been destroyed.

The pistol shot tears opens its chest, revealing ribs and bits of gangrenous tissue. The creature shrieks and fall over. Its flesh and bones dissolve into dust, which is soon blown away by a breeze. There is no longer the stench of the grave.

After recovering from this battle, the four adventurers may follow the tracks. Miss Davenport has determined that they lead in the general direction of the Dupray cottage.

When they approach the home of the eccentric twins, they will note that there is a single candle burning in a front window. Someone can be seen dimly within, apparently seated at a desk.

Would it be best to approach openly, and announce the purpose of their visit at this late hour? Would it be best to attempt to enter secretly by another entrance? Would it be best to search the exotic garden for any clues? It is difficult to say.

Alas Elizabeth's brave attempt to keep control of her fear crazed mount comes to naught at the sudden appearance of something that even to her eyes has no right to be. Through rapidly darkening sight and wildly swimming senses, she is vaguely aware of the direct approach of the thing, it seems she is to be the target of its attack.

She is dimly aware of three things which seem to almost happen at once, in a slow motion. Lila guiding her mount between herself and the creature, Mr Rachman chanting in a strange, unfamiliar tongue, and dear Henry sweeping his pistol aloft. However all that follows is darkness as she slips into a dead faint...

She opens her eyes from the comforting blackness of her faint to find herself unhorsed and surrounded by her caring companions. Of the horrid creature there was no sign.

As her eyes focus and colour slowly returns to her cheeks she is aware of some urgency in the talk of the others. It would seem Lila is keen to follow the trail of the thing to a close by cottage, that of the Dupray twins...

Fainting,[url=http://orokos.com/roll/430900]To avoid fainting: Cha 11[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]17[/b] I apologise for my earlier misreading of the cice. Elizabeth will hang on to her 'Grace Point' for the moment, so her horse has gone lost when she fainted

At the cottage, Lila is still on edge from the attack and would prefer to search the grounds for any further signs of demonic activity, though she looks to the others to see what they propose.

"Let us search around outside first," suggests Henry. "We need to know what we are getting into before we go in. Perhaps we can find the assailant's horse, and clues may be in the saddlebags. It certainly did not go inside the house. There must be a stable here."

It is obvious that one of the horses has recently been ridden hard, and that it has not been properly cared for after its exertion, as if the rider were in great haste. An inspection of the saddlebags reveals that they contain multiple stones of a size appropriate for use in a slingshot. There is nothing else of interest in the stable.

At this point it may be appropriate to note that the Dupray cottage consists of a single floor. Besides the small stable, the grounds contain only the very large garden. The ladies will recall, from their previous visit, that the relatively modest home consists of the great hall, used for many general purposes, including the musical salons; a small kitchen and dining area; a single room for the Dupray's only servant, a maid-of-all-work, next to the kitchen; a bedroom for Miss Dupray and a bedroom for Mister Dupray. Besides the front door, there is only one entrance, which leads directly into the kitchen, no doubt for the convenience of the servant.

As of yet, the arrival of the adventurers has not drawn the attention of the person in the great hall.

"That's all the evidence we need to show that at least one of the Duprays was behind the attack," says Henry. "We could slip in through the servants' entrance and confront whoever's there, or we could simply knock as if we are visiting and ignorant of their involvement. We could ask questions regarding Mary's disappearance and see what we can learn before we tip our hand."

Recalling Cook's tale of two other women in attendance at the Duprays' going missing, Lila agrees with Doctor North's suggestion of attempting to learn what they can of Mary's disappearance through questioning.

Looking a little disheveled and pale from the recent experience with the creature, Elizabeth smiles at Dr North. "It might be better to adopt Henry's second suggestion, rather than become mere thieves in the night". She brushes aside an errant lock of hair that has fallen across her eyes, "Please allow me to knock at the cottage. For I believe that the Dupray's would not turn away a distressed maiden in search of aid".

Elizabeth's smile warms Henry's heart, and he returns one of his own. Nobody else his been able to make him smile in a long time. "An excellent point," says Henry. "Very well. The rest of us shall be nearby in case they have less than honourable intentions."

The door is soon opened by Mister Dupray, who wears a dressing gown. He face lights up with a wide smile.

"Elizabeth! Uh, that is, I am delighted to see you, Miss Carrow. And Miss Davenport as well, of course. I do not believe that I have the honor of being acquainted with these two gentlemen, but you are all welcome. Please come in, and do forgive my state of dishabille. I often spend an evening alone in conversation with my quill, ha-ha."

After the introductions are made, Mister Dupray invites his guests to share toast and mineral water with him. "I find that a light repast is conducive to the creative process. If I may be so bold . . ."

Mister Dupray shows his guests a sheet of paper with the following lines (much revised, with words crossed out and others written in their place):

The path to Paradise, I vow,
Is very steep and narrow;
Yet I have found the true way now.
'Twas writ on Cupid's arrow!
That merry archer loosed his bow
And cried, "Love's name is

Mister Dupray coughs and blushes a bit. "It is, of course, not yet complete. Do you think the rhyme in the fifth line is very bad? But forgive me. It is obvious that you have come here for some more serious purpose. What can I do for you, mes amis?"

Henry can't help feeling a twinge of jealousy at Mr. Dupray's obvious reference to Elizabeth in his composition, but he reassures himself that she would never fall for such an obvious ploy. "One of Mr. Harcourt's servants, Mary, has gone missing," he says. "We were hoping you or your sister might have seen her recently."

Mister Dupray seems puzzled. "Missing, you say? I suppose she has run off somewhere, as servants are wont to do now and then." He thinks a moment. "Mary, Mary . . . I imagine you mean the little Irish girl who assisted the guests with their costumes at Mister Harcourt's masquerade. I heard her praised by Miss Carrow" -- a flush comes to his ivory cheeks -- "for her skill as a seamstress. No, I cannot say I have seen her since that evening. Violette -- my sister, you understand -- is in her room sleeping. I'm afraid that she finds my nighttime scribbling a dreary form of entertainment. Allow me to question her."

He goes to Miss Dupray's room and taps lightly on the door. Receiving no answer, he enters quietly.

"Violette? It is I, Antoine," he whispers. After a while, more loudly, "Awake, s'il vous plait!" A moment later, in some alarm, he turns to his guests. "Fetch the candle, quickly!" When it is brought, he looks about the room. The bed has not been slept in. "She is not here! Is it possible that she is missing also? My friends, you must help me look for her. Perhaps she has only gone for a walk in the moonlight, although that would be very much unlike her. However, if she has met with some unfortunate fate, the scoundrel who has abducted her must have left some evidence of his foul crime. I give you free leave to search throughout the house and on the grounds. I will stand outside and call for her."

More candles are lit and distributed. Mister Dupray stands outside the front door. "Violette? Where are you?"

The only answer is the wind.

"Of course we'll help search for her," says Henry. "We should probably start with her room. She may have left a note or something that would tell us where she's gone. How long ago did you see her last? "

It is plain to Lila that Mister Dupray is infatuated with Miss Carrow. She recalls the mysterious riddle of seduction Elizabeth had shown her at the musical salon and considers it likely it was penned by the same hand. Still, it is none of her affair - she is more concerned with the presence of supernatural forces in the area.

Though Antoine's concern for his missing sister seems genuine, there is still the matter of the horse in the stable which clearly belonged to the attacker with the slingshot. For the time being she decides to give Antoine the benefit of the doubt since he seems a harmless enough lovelorn romantic. "Let us search the garden," she says. "If Miss Dupray has left any indications of her passage I may be able to track them."

Mr. Handy wrote:
"Of course we'll help search for her," says Henry. "We should probably start with her room. She may have left a note or something that would tell us where she's gone. How long ago did you see her last? "

"Why, let me think. Violette retired to her room this afternoon, I believe, with a headache. I have not seen her since. Please do search her room for any message she might have left, sir."

Wruter wrote: "Let us search the garden," she says. "If Miss Dupray has left any indications of her passage I may be able to track them."

Unfortunately, if there are any clues in the garden as to whereabouts of the missing ladies, Miss Davenport is unable to locate them. Some other strategy will have to be applied.

Henry thoroughly searches the room, leaving nothing unchecked.

OOC,Wisdom roll (11) searching [b]Violette[/b]'s room: [dice]0[/dice]

Elizabeth, content to let the others begin the search, smiles at Antoine, gently taking his arm. "My dear Monsieur Dupray, I am certain that your sister has not gone far and that my good companions will soon uncover her whereabouts. However, with such strange happenings of recent hours I fear that discovery of her fate is of the utmost importance. Therefore may I ask if anything strange has occurred recently, maybe a secret or a hidden thing?" As she speaks she studies his expression for any odd changes.

Duncan follows miss Davenport out into the garden to aid with the search. Surely the young lady can't have just vanished into thin air.

Mr. Handy wrote:
Henry thoroughly searches the room, leaving nothing unchecked.

There seems to be nothing unusual in Miss Dupray's bedchamber with the exception of a handwritten manuscript which is carefully concealed between several layers of clothing within an armoire. It consists of several sheets which have been glued together to form a continuous roll. The writing is very small, as if the author wished to conserve paper as much as possible. It is in French.

Priest wrote:
Elizabeth, content to let the others begin the search, smiles at Antoine, gently taking his arm. "My dear Monsieur Dupray, I am certain that your sister has not gone far and that my good companions will soon uncover her whereabouts. However, with such strange happenings of recent hours I fear that discovery of her fate is of the utmost importance. Therefore may I ask if anything strange has occurred recently, maybe a secret or a hidden thing?" As she speaks she studies his expression for any odd changes.

Mister Dupray seems both delighted and nervous to be so close to Miss Carrow. He stutters a bit and says "Strange? Hidden? I cannot imagine what you mean. Oh, I suppose it is rare for Violette to be so afflicted by a headache as to retire during daylight hours. I believe she has succumbed to such a spell once or twice in the past. But other than that, no, nothing unusual has occurred."

He looks directly into her eyes. "May I beg the very great favor of requesting that you address me as 'Antoine?' And may I be so bold as to express my very great admiration for your many virtues?"

maelstrom wrote:Duncan follows miss Davenport out into the garden to aid with the search. Surely the young lady can't have just vanished into thin air.

Some preternatural instinct directs Mister Rachman to examine a patch of ground between a pair of rose bushes. When the dirt has been brushed away, a wooden door is found. When it is pried open, a set of stone steps leading down can be seen. Where they might lead is impossible to determine; they quickly descend into total darkness.

Exchanging a glance with Mister Rachman, Lila takes her oil lantern from her haversack and lights it, then starts down the hidden stone steps, calling, "Miss Dupray? Violette?"

Wruter wrote:
Exchanging a glance with Mister Rachman, Lila takes her oil lantern from her haversack and lights it, then starts down the hidden stone steps, calling, "Miss Dupray? Violette?"

There is no response. Sounds can be heard, but their source cannot be determined exactly. They seem to be a mixture of muffled scuffling noises. The light of the lantern reveals that the flight of stairs ends at a place where three hallways meet, left, right, and center.

Duncan draws his dagger and decent the stairs following the light from miss Davenport lantern. Muffled sounds reverberate through the cellar, but which direction they eminate from is not clear. " in the light of recent events, maybe we should stick together. Shall we try to the left, for starters."

The hallway to the left slopes gradually down and makes many twists and turns. Moisture drips from the walls and the air is musty. It seems to lead to nothing but a shallow pit, into which various odds and ends have been tossed -- bits of broken crockery, rags, and the like.

The adventurers may examine the contents of the pit more closely, although the area around it is wet and slippery, or they may turn back.

Though Henry is well-educated, French was never one of the languages he had learned. Tongues such as Latin and German were far more useful to a scientist. Taking the document with him, he heads off to the garden to look for Miss Davenport in the hopes that she can translate it.

OOC,Intelligence roll (12 stat + 3 = 15) to know French: [dice]0[/dice]

Curious, Lila leans forward to examine the contents of the pit more closely in the light of the lantern.

Mr. Handy wrote:Though Henry is well-educated, French was never one of the languages he had learned. Tongues such as Latin and German were far more useful to a scientist. Taking the document with him, he heads off to the garden to look for Miss Davenport in the hopes that she can translate it.

It is now impossible not to notice the open door in the garden, and the sound of movement coming from below.

Wruter wrote:Curious, Lila leans forward to examine the contents of the pit more closely in the light of the lantern.

The light from the lantern and the movement of the investigators has disturbed a nest of rats which dwell within the pit. As the startled rodents scurry past, they will attempt to bite at the legs of the humans who have entered their realm.

Managing to keep her balance on the slippery surface, Lila jumps aside as the rats pour forth. Asking Mister Rachman if he is well, she suggests they head back the way they came and try one of the other hallways.

Seeing miss Davenport lean perilously close to the pits edge. He is about to issue a warning to be cautious, when a rustling and squeeking comes from the depths and a horde of rats erupt forth and swarm around Miss Davenport and then past Duncan. Swatting at them with his dagger as they flow past him. He curses in his own toungue as he feels a gnawing slash at his ankle as he is bitten by one of the vile beasts.
As the rats scurry past and flee up the passage, he bends and presses a handkerchief to the small wound. "I think i will survive this time" he says with a smile. "shall we try the next passage?" he stands and heads back to the centre passageway.

The central passageway also descends, but is straighter. It leads to a plain wooden door.

Lila taps upon the door, calling, "Miss Dupray? Madame, êtes-vous là?"

There is no response.

Henry peers into the darkness below. "Miss Davenport, are you down there?" he calls.

Hearing Doctor North's shout from above, knowing he will not be able to see without the aid of the lantern, Lila calls up in reply then heads back to the stairs to guide him.

Previously Antoine Dupray said:   "May I beg the very great favor of requesting that you address me as 'Antoine?' And may I be so bold as to express my very great admiration for your many virtues?"

Elizabeth blushes slightly thinking How forward, yet she smiles and inclines her head slowly, "As you wish Monsieur Dupray, I mean Antoine. Fear not, I am sure that the disapearance of your sister will be found to have an easy explanation. Now I wonder where the good Dr North is heading?"

She watches as Henry makes his way outside. With a final smile and nod to Antoine she hurries after the doctor to find him peering into an open door in the garden, from which a hint of light emerges.

"Miss Davenport, are you down there?" he calls.

Elizabeth hurries towards him...

Several rats emerge from their underground lair and attempt to nip at the legs of the new arrivals as they flee from the invading humans.
The four adventurers are able to gather together in front of the wooden door. They may decide whether or not to ask Mister Dupray to join them. He will gladly abide by their wishes.

Meanwhile, Miss Davenport is able to read the manuscript. It contains annotations in French in another hand which reveal that it was smuggled out of the infamous Bastille prison, where its author, a French Marquis by the name of Donatien Alphonse Francois, is currently being held for a variety of libidinous crimes. The manuscript is a work of fiction. Suffice to say that it describes, in great detail, the unspeakable activities of a group of libertines who have removed themselves from all restrictions on their behavior. To say anything more would be to violate the most basic mores of decent society.

"Eugh! Filthy creatures" shouts Elizabeth as the disturbed creatures attempt to bite her legs in their haste to flee the invasion of their nests. Luckily a combination of quick moves and reflexes ensure that none of the squeaking, biting creatures trouble her.

Quietly so as not to disturb Lila's reading of the manuscript, Elizabeth turns to Henry, "The brother awaits outside this hole, should we call him in or bid him await our return?"

Dexterity,[url=http://orokos.com/roll/432510]Dexterity roll: 7[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]3[/b]

As she describes the contents of the manuscript to her companions, sparing them the lurid details, Lila feels if not sympathy then at least an understanding of the dark desires which might drive Miss Dupray to seek excitement in such debauched fantasies. If her experiences studying and fighting evil have taught her anything it is that every human--and inhuman--soul contains a wellspring of perversity, her own included, though some run deeper than others.

Upon hearing Doctor North's account of how the manuscript was hidden she murmurs, "Perhaps it would be best if we do not inform Miss Dupray's brother of this private discovery, since he is evidently distressed enough over her disappearance." She puts the papers inside her haversack for safekeeping until she can return them to their owner.

Henry also manages to avoid the swarm of rats as they surge past, and he guides Elizabeth down the stairs to join the others in the tunnel. He is relieved that she is no longer in the presence of Monsieur Dupray, as he would not trust him alone with her - not that he trusts him much in any event. "Yes, I quite agree," he says. "In fact, it's best not to involve him at all at this stage. If he is not the attacker with the slingshot, then it must be either his sister or one of their servants, possibly acting on the behalf of one or both of them. And then there's the fact that young women have gone missing who have performed at their salon. I do not think we can trust him, at least until we know more. Even if he is not involved, he would likely not believe ill of his sister without solid proof - which we yet lack."

OOC,Dexterity roll (10 stat) to avoid being bitten: [dice]0[/dice]

"Quite so, Doctor." Raising the lantern, Lila tries the wooden door.

Elizabeth listens to Henry's words then glances back to the steps. Part of her feels concern for whatever pain Antoine must be feeling at this time. However there is something that bothers her about the Dupray's, nothing that she can put a finger on, just something...odd. So she is relieved by the decision to leave Antoine out of things for the moment. She watches as Lila tries the wooden door, feeling a warmth of curiosity rise within her. She grasps Henrys arm, in case the sudden opening of the door reveals an unexpected suprise. She feels somewhat safe in the presence of the doctor.

Duncan holds his dagger ready, Wether to be used as a physical weapon, or as an extension of his will and waits as the door opens. Smelling the air and hoping not, to capture again, that scent that so reviled him earlier.

The door opens easily. Beyond it is a large room carved from rock and earth. Tapers are set on the walls to provide light. Near one the servant girl Mary has been chained to the wall by shackles at hand and foot. She has been gagged and cannot cry out, but upon seeing the four adventurers she opens her eyes wide and struggles uselessly against her bonds. There are also a variety of instruments of torment -- whips, pincers, and the like -- set into brackets on the wall.

None of this, however, is as noteworthy as the fact that Miss Dupray, dressed in her brother's clothing, faces those who stand outside the door with a crossbow, ready to be loosed at any moment.

"Good," she says. "You have brought her to me. That saves me a great deal of trouble. Leave the simpering little witch with me and take the servant with you. I have no quarrel with the rest of you."

There is madness is her eyes. Failure to do as she says will undoubtedly cause her to fire the deadly bolt.

As any illusions she had entertained regarding Miss Dupray's private fantasies are shattered, Lila glances at Miss Carrow, presuming her to be the so-called 'simpering little witch'.

"Oh my" gasps Elizabeth taking a half step to the rear before begining a wobble that can only end in a faint.
"Antoine help me!" she screams as she falls to the floor in the hope that she will provide enough of a distraction to draw the attention of the Dupray woman away from her companions.

Hearing Miss Carrow call her brother's name seems to enrage Miss Dupray.

"How dare you make my brother fall in love with you! No one is good enough for him! Not you, and not those others!"

As she is making this impassioned speech, Mister Dupray has rushed to the aid of his inamorata.
As he rushes into the underground lair, he is bitten by a rat.
The creature seems to be diseased, and no doubt Mister Dupray will suffer the consequences.

As he runs to Miss Carrow, the startled rats rush at Miss Dupray as well.
She is able to avoid its teeth, but the encounter distracts her for a moment. It seems evident that she will soon attempt to end the life of Miss Carrow with the crossbow. If the shot goes wild, it may strike someone else.

Seeing Miss Dupray distracted Lila rushes her, swinging the only weapon she has immediately to hand--the lantern--in a desperate attempt to knock the crossbow from the madwoman's grip before she can recover and pull the trigger...

Wruter wrote:Seeing Miss Dupray distracted Lila rushes her, swinging the only weapon she has immediately to hand--the lantern--in a desperate attempt to knock the crossbow from the madwoman's grip before she can recover and pull the trigger...

Lila manages to knock the crossbow flying from Miss Dupray's hands, whilst still clutching the lantern.

Seeing that Lila has disarmed Violette with lightning speed, before he could even think of reacting, Henry hurries to catch Elizabeth and to keep her out of harm's way.

Seeing Lila's quick action, Duncan will use daze to hopefully further stun miss dupray and give us a chance to subdue her properly.
After casting, Duncan will rush forward and attempt to sweep miss dupray s legs from under her,knocking her to the ground.

All the while fearing the strike of the crossbow bolt, Elizabeth stays still in her fainting masquerade. Through slitted eyes she observes the struggle which ends with the subduing of Miss Dupray. As Henry rushes, gallantly, to her aid she mutters "Beware Antoine, he may yet take offence at your manhandling of his twin"

OOC:   I have a feeling that dear Antoine is not all that he seems. May I attempt some sort of roll to clarify my thoughts?

Wruter wrote:Lila manages to knock the crossbow flying from Miss Dupray's hands, whilst still clutching the lantern.

Miss Dupray desperately attempts to loose the bolt, without being able to aim.
The deadly weapon has been released! Where will it strike?
During the perilous struggle, the madwoman has managed to strike back at her attacker!
The heroic demon hunter is very badly wounded as the bolt strikes her side.

maelstrom wrote:Seeing Lila's quick action, Duncan will use daze to hopefully further stun miss dupray and give us a chance to subdue her properly.
After casting, Duncan will rush forward and attempt to sweep miss dupray s legs from under her,knocking her to the ground.

Miss Dupray attempts to shake off the effect of the preternatural incantation.
She is successful at avoiding being dazed.

Priest wrote:
All the while fearing the strike of the crossbow bolt, Elizabeth stays still in her fainting masquerade. Through slitted eyes she observes the struggle which ends with the subduing of Miss Dupray. As Henry rushes, gallantly, to her aid she mutters "Beware Antoine, he may yet take offence at your manhandling of his twin."

Henry nods slightly, so that only Elizabeth can see, and looks at Antoine - practically seeing through him.

OOC,I have Bad Reputation and Bad Throwing Arm, not Bad Judge of Character. I succeeded either way, though. Intelligence roll (12 stat -3? [= 9]): [dice]0[/dice]

Duncan drops down into a low crouch, his leg whipping out and his foot hooks behind miss dupray's ankle. Pulling sharply she looses her balance and begins to tumble.
.

Though the situation looks desperate and Elizabeth does not fail to see Lila struck by the crossbow bolt, she stares intently at Antoine, trying to put her finger on what it is she feels wrong.

Intelligence,[url=http://orokos.com/roll/434813]Intelligence check: 8 -3 = 5[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]2[/b] Hurrah!

Is that a flicker of malice she sees briefly cross his face, and if so who is it directed at? Is Antoine innocent or does he have some part in the horrors of his twin?

Lila staggers and leans against the wall of the chamber, gritting her teeth against the pain of the wound in her side.

Mr. Handy wrote:

OOC,I have Bad Reputation and Bad Throwing Arm, not Bad Judge of Character. I succeeded either way,

Doctor North has great insight into the mysteries of the human mind. His careful consideration of Mister Dupray's behavior (and an accurate use of the science of phrenology to observe the shape of the young man's head, revealing his character) convinces him that the fellow is exactly what he seems to be. A simple man, somewhat dominated by his sister, tending to wear his heart on his sleeve, with literary ambitions which have yet to flower, and a tendency to easily fall in love.

Although Miss Carrow is not known for having great insight into the motivations of others, since her own heart is so pure, something about Mister Dupray -- perhaps his honest affection for her? -- reveals itself to her. He is indeed in love with her, and bears no ill will of any kind to her or her companions.

Miss Dupray scrambles to get to her feet. The three adventurers -- Miss Davenport being incapacitated at this point -- have an opportunity to act before she recovers.

"I think he is innocent," whispers Henry, setting Elizabeth back on her feet, "though not as innocent as you, my dear. Perhaps you can convince him that his sister has gone mad, if anyone can. I must see to Miss Davenport's wound." He opens his black doctor's bag and kneels down beside Lila to help her however he can.

OOC,Thanks, I hadn't realized that until I saw her roll. I'd also completely forgotten the +1, but my roll was plenty low anyway.

Elizabeth notes the look of sadness that momentarilly masks the fine features of Antoine. Obviously she had misjudged the man, and for a moment her heart softens towards him. "Antoine, help us, your sister is afflicted by some malady of the mind. She knows not what she does, pray stop her before she hurts someone else".

As she speaks she flutters her eyelids in what she hopes is a most endearing manner...

Seeing the Doctor already bending down to tend to Miss Davenport, Duncan turns back to Miss Dupray. Seeing he trying to rise he says " Please Miss Dupray, dont force me to knock you down again" and points his dagger towards her.

Mr. Handy wrote:He opens his black doctor's bag and kneels down beside Lila to help her however he can.

The wound is quite a deep one, if not immediately fatal. There is a great deal of blood on Miss Davenport's clothing. She seems barely conscious.

Priest wrote:Elizabeth notes the look of sadness that momentarily masks the fine features of Antoine. Obviously she had misjudged the man, and for a moment her heart softens towards him. "Antoine, help us, your sister is afflicted by some malady of the mind. She knows not what she does, pray stop her before she hurts someone else".

As she speaks she flutters her eyelids in what she hopes is a most endearing manner...

"Of course, dear angel!" Antoine rushes to subdue his sister. She wraps her arms around his legs and weeps. "Don't leave me, don't leave me. . ."

maelstrom wrote:Seeing the Doctor already bending down to tend to Miss Davenport, Duncan turns back to Miss Dupray. Seeing he trying to rise he says " Please Miss Dupray, dont force me to knock you down again" and points his dagger towards her.

Miss Dupray's madness has changed from violent mania to anguished melancholia. Mister Dupray is able to bind her, with many a soft word and gentle touch, with strips of cloth, so that she will not do injury to herself or others if she lapses into another choleric fit.

While Doctor North is busy tending to Miss Davenport, Mister Rachman is able to loose Mary's bonds. Miss Carrow is able to comfort the distraught servant girl.

Due to the lateness of the hour, and the extraordinary circumstances of the evening, Mister Dupray suggests that all should stay the night. He will remain awake with his sister in the great hall, while the two gentlemen share his room and the ladies share his sister's room. The only servant (who has apparently been napping in her quarters while all of this excitement has been happening) will be able to take care of the guests. She is a highly efficient woman of middle years and not afraid of hard work. Of course, it is yet to be determined whether Miss Davenport can be transported to the cottage safely.

Henry expertly manages to remove the crossbow bolt and bind the wound to prevent further loss of blood. When he finishes, Lila seems to be doing better, though she is still badly injured.

"I believe I know the source of Miss Dupray's madness," he says. "Obviously it's due to an imbalance in her humours, but that imbalance is triggered by something. She has spent all of her life with her twin, and she is terrified of losing him. Whenever a woman catches his fancy - which happens all too often - she is overcome with jealousy, fearing that this other woman will steal him away from her. This has particularly happened with women who have performed at their salon, which explains why they have tended to disappear."

OOC,Dexterity roll (10 stat + 3[Profession(Doctor)] + 1[True Innocent] = 14) to treat [b]Lila[/b]: [dice]0[/dice]

Doctor North's expert treatment has revived Miss Davenport to a certain degree. She is now able to stand, and walk with assistance, but it is evident that she will be unable to mount a horse, or even tolerate a coach ride. The long walk back to Mister Harcourt's manor is, of course, out of the question. There seems to be no choice but for her to remain as the involuntary guest of Mister Dupray for at least one night. The other adventurers are welcome to remain also, as Mister Dupray has already mentioned; however, if they prefer, they may return to Harcourt House.

"It would be good if we can at least send a message back to Harcourt house," says Henry, "so that they know we found Mary and that she is well. I know Davros must be worried about her."

The one servant will be very busy taking care of the household chores, as well as the injured Miss Davenport, the disturbed Miss Dupray, and even Mister Dupray (who is already showing signs of fever and chills, which Doctor North will recognize as classic symptoms of Blood Rot, doubtlessly a result of the rat bite.) For the moment he is not incapacitated, but as the disease progresses he may not be able to keep watch over Miss Dupray to the extent required. (All attempts to remove her from her brother's side result in fits of hysteria.) It will be necessary to decide who will return to Harcourt House with Mary, who is eager to leave, but fearful to travel alone, and who will remain.

"I must remain here, to look after my patients," says Henry. "Mr. Rachman, do you think you'd be able to escort Mary back?"

"I would volunteer to see Mary safely home but fear that I would prove little comfort" says Elizabeth earnestly trying to look enthusiastic, "Yet I think my services will be needed here in the care of our wounded friend Lila. I fear that dear Henry is correct and that you, Mr Rachman, are our only solution"
As she speaks Antoine is suddenly racked by a severe bout of coughing and she rushes to soothe his fevered brow.

There would seem to be general agreement that this would be the wisest course of action. Mary and Mister Rachman enjoy an uneventful ride back to Harcourt House. There is much happiness at the return of the distraught lass, and general astonishment at the extraordinary events which have transpired. The weary girl is sent to bed. She and Mister Rachman sleep soundly, and awake the next morning refreshed. (Mister Rachman's rat bite has healed well, and he has avoided contracting Blood Rot.)

Meanwhile . . .

Miss Davenport is able to rest in reasonable comfort. Time is the best healer now. It seems likely that she will be able to ride in a coach (which Mister Dupray is more than willing to provide) on the morrow.

Doctor North is aware that the standard procedure for treating Blood Rot is to bleed the patient, a procedure which is dangerous and of questionable efficacy. For the moment, it would be best to wait to see how Mister Rachman feels in the morning; Blood Rot has been known to be cured by the patient's own inherent constitution.

The ministrations of Miss Carrow are of great comfort to Mister Dupray. However, whenever she approaches him closely, Miss Dupray hisses at her like a wild cat and strains against her bonds. It is evident that she is still in the grip of madness, and Mister Dupray is afraid that she will have to be transported to Bethlem Royal Hospital, where the unfortunate victims of lunacy are cared for.

The demands of nature cannot be denied; eventually even Miss Dupray falls asleep. She mumbles restlessly, apparently suffering from bad dreams. Mister Dupray's slumber is not entirely restful either. His skin is moist with perspiration. He occasionally murmurs "Elizabeth" in his sleep.

The three involuntary guests sleep more peacefully, on the whole. But as the Bard penned, "What dreams may come?"

Henry is exhausted by the time he finally turns in for the night, and his rest is troubled.

OOC,Wisdom roll (stat 11) during the night: [dice]0[/dice]

Mr. Handy wrote:
Henry is exhausted by the time he finally turns in for the night, and his rest is troubled.

Doctor North has no dreams that he can recall the next morning.

Eventually, content that Lila rests peacefully, Elizabeth drifts into a restless sleep filled with dreams...

Wisdom,[url=http://orokos.com/roll/435917]Wisdom: 8[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]11[/b]

Wruter wrote:

Spoiler:

Wisdom check re dreams: 12[dice]184680:0[/dice]

Miss Davenport also experiences dreamless, if restless, slumber.

Priest wrote:
Eventually, content that Lila rests peacefully, Elizabeth drifts into a restless sleep filled with dreams...

Wisdom,[url=http://orokos.com/roll/435917]Wisdom: 8[/url]: [u]1d20[/u] [b]11[/b]

Upon awakening, none of the dreams can be recalled.
Mister Dupray is much better in the morning. He will be able to undertake the sad chore of escorting Miss Dupray to the facility vulgarly known as Bedlam. Before leaving, he burns all the pages of the manuscript from the imprisoned Marquis de Sade, blaming it for his sister's affliction.

Miss Davenport is well enough to travel by coach. The three adventurers are all troubled by the sensation that last night's dreams, now completely lost to memory, were somehow of importance.

In any case, they are able to arrive at Harcourt House without incident.