Play@YSDC

Posted: **Tue Nov 03, 2020 11:27 am**

Book the Second, Chapter the Tenth: An Introduction to Society; Or, Domestic Battlefields

The female creature having placed her fate in the hands of Doctor North, there remains the question of how so unusual a being might be accepted by the world. Education is, of course, of prime importance. Having proved herself an apt pupil, this should present no particular problems. More concerning is her appearance, and her lack of experience with the common niceties of daily life. The first challenge will be her inevitable meeting with the members of the Highdark household; unless, perchance, the decision is made to keep her in hiding for the nonce.

Posted: **Tue Nov 03, 2020 1:42 pm**

While his friends ponder the best way of revealing the presence of the reanimated young lady, Lepus remains at a polite distance, preferring to wander the Highdark estate talking to the stones, singing to the trees and joking with the sky.

However, despite his misgivings and unease at the unnatural life that courses through the girl, his curiosity eventually gets the better of him. Sighing in resignation, he sidles up to Henry.

“Very well, how might ol’ Lepus assist? Hast thou named the girl?”

Posted: **Tue Nov 03, 2020 7:55 pm**

As long as the party remains near the hermit's hut, William keeps his attention there, lest the man attempt some other mischief.

Posted: **Wed Nov 04, 2020 6:31 am**

"Thank you. I could use some assistance in getting her cleaned up and ready to be presented," says Henry. He turns to the female creature. "What do you think of the name Eliza? We're going to have to find a change of clothes for you, good clothes, as befits a lady, for that is what you shall learn to be. I shall need to instruct you on how to act in high society. You shall also need a bath, and to have your hair styled. I shall adopt you as my daughter, and you shall live accordingly, in wealth and style. You shall have a mother as well, my darling wife Elizabeth, and my other children shall be your brothers and sisters. You shall be educated as they are, by a governess for most things, and by me personally in matters of science and medicine."

Posted: **Wed Nov 04, 2020 9:29 am**

Spoiler:

Caution being advised, lest Old Longshanks prove to offer further obstacles, the adventurers remain wary for a sufficient time to ensure that no threat is immediately evident. Making their way to the manor home, they are able to secure the newly christened Eliza a sufficient, if not luxurious, place in Miss Ravenscroft's damaged and abandoned rooms, without, as yet, the knowledge of the other inhabitants. Displaying curiosity about a few pieces of fine clothing which remain in in said place, she contrasts them sadly with her own torn and soiled frock.

"Pretty," she says. A brief attempt to place them about her own person proves that they are far too small to be worn properly; as would, indeed, any raiment meant for an ordinary woman.

Becoming clean is a easier task, there being an abundant supply of soap, perfumes, and -- wonder of wonders! -- an elaborate device, designed by Miss Ravenscroft, which supplies hot water at the touch of a finger. Demonstrating what must be a natural sense of modesty, Eliza is careful to perform this laving of herself in privacy, emerging only when properly draped.

Posted: **Wed Nov 04, 2020 1:47 pm**

During this interlude of calm, William announces an intention to take his leave of Highdark Hall. "The encounter with the Furies - I suppose they could not have been anything else - brought it home to me," he says. "It is strange to think of myself as having a 'destiny,' but there it is. And as long as it exists, I am not such a man as to wait for it. I must be on my way to meet it. You have been company to be proud of, gentlemen." [He shows no trace of irony in including Lepus in the latter]

Naturally he pays appropriate thanks to Lord Highdark for his hospitality. (And if the opportunity arises for a farewell dalliance with Lady Highdark, he will take it).

Posted: **Wed Nov 04, 2020 6:18 pm**

“Fare thee well gallant soldier,” says Lepus, grabbing William’s hands with his own grubby appendages. “May thy fate be long in coming!”

Thankfully for the revenant girl, Lepus possesses little in the way of ardour and thinks nothing of her semi-clothed state. If she wishes, he will attempt to stitch some clothing together for her.

Posted: **Wed Nov 04, 2020 11:52 pm**

"It was an honour to fight at your side," says Henry, shaking William's hand. "Whatever may happen, you shall be remembered, by me and by my descendants, when I tell them the tales of our exploits." He looks through the clothing. "We'll have to eventually have clothes tailor-made for Eliza. In the meantime, if we cannot make women's clothing, there is probably something in Ivan's wardrobe that would fit, though it would of course be made for a man. He is nearly the same size."

Posted: **Thu Nov 05, 2020 11:31 pm**

By hook or by crook, as the saying goes, suitable attire is produced for Eliza, although it would never appear in the fashion plates studied so intensely by stylish ladies. There remains the question of how this unusual female be introduced to other members of the household, given her exceptional appearance.

Meanwhile, William goes to seek his fortune, possibly in the New World.

Posted: **Fri Nov 06, 2020 1:25 am**

"We can say that we rescued Eliza from a hermit who was forcing her to be his servant," says Henry. "It's true, after all."

Posted: **Fri Nov 06, 2020 11:21 am**

"Aye, 'tis true. And out of the goodness out of thy heart, thou has adopted the poor girl. What say you Eliza?"

Posted: **Fri Nov 06, 2020 6:49 pm**

"I... it is true. I shall do what you say. Eliza... I have a name."

Posted: **Thu Nov 12, 2020 11:09 am**

Spoiler:

After several days have passed, with the adventurers mingling with their hosts in calmer ways than oft whilst Eliza remains in seclusion, and the various members of the household in finer mood than usual, an opportunity arises for this storm-tossed orphan to make her way into the world. There is to be a social gathering at Highdark Hall, to which the guests are welcome to bring such company as they may think fit. Having acquired some education in proper behavior from her creator and mentor, Eliza faces the opportunity, and challenge, of coming into close contact with strangers.

Posted: **Thu Nov 12, 2020 3:23 pm**

Lepus, having little interest in socials and soirées, is content to lurk around the edges of the assembly, observing affairs from afar. If he can, he will occasionally wander off, either to converse with the servants or inspect Lord Highdark’s collections.

Posted: **Thu Nov 12, 2020 3:28 pm**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:
Spoiler:
I went through Paint, Photo, Image Save, and Crop to get this.

Many thanks, that's perfect.

"I am to meet more people now? That is... frightening, but also appealing. Is it true that none will appear as I do?"

Posted: **Fri Nov 13, 2020 6:14 am**

"That's right, Eliza," says Henry, pausing his lessons on which spoon to use for soup and how to speak in polite company. "There is nobody else like you. We are all unique, of course, but you are perhaps more unique than most. There will be other women, though none with your strength."

Posted: **Fri Nov 13, 2020 11:07 am**

The day of the gathering arrives. Guests arriving from some distance, even the great mother city of London herself, it is expected to extend throughout the week. The first order of business, of course, is to make introduction to the Altumbers and their relations. Lord and Lady Highdark are, as always, gracious, although it is clear that Eliza's appearance raises their eyebrows. Harold seems particularly fascinated by her.

"I shall have to paint you sometime," he remarks. "I trust that you are not excessively modest when it comes to drapery. I picture you as Hippolyta, armed for battle."

Georgina, on the other hand, is shy around Eliza. Her infant daughter shrieks in her presence, and is removed from the room by her nurse. Her husband Henry is polite, but makes strange gestures with his fingers when he believes he is not being observed.

The young twins Juno and Julia are openly fascinated by her, and pester her with many questions. One of them asks, "Are you an ogre?"

"Really, child," Lady Highdark remarks, using the form of address she often chooses, when it is uncertain which of the two she is admonishing. "We shall hear no more of your foolishness." By way of apology, she says to Eliza, "Have you skill upon the spinet, my dear? I have always believed that music is a proper study for a lady."

Posted: **Fri Nov 13, 2020 12:12 pm**

Observing the Henry’s discreet gesture, Lepus, no doubt familiar with such things, tries to remember its meaning.

Overhearing the servants’ tittle-tattle, the wanderer attempts to pour oil on troubled waters.

“Psht! One so well-educated in such matters as I can see ‘tis not the case! I did hear the poor girl was left scarred and orphaned when her carriage left the road. Lord North did adopt her out of charity. Pity the child if you will, but fear her not!”

When the opportunity arises he will warm Henry that the servants fear his ‘daughter’.

“Tread carefully we must, lest we be driven from this place afore our work be done, yesno?”

Posted: **Fri Nov 13, 2020 3:42 pm**

Eliza responds as best she can to each of the family's reactions. She thanks Lord and Lady Highdark for their graciousness is hosting her and her adoptive father.

To Harold she frowns, as if trying to puzzle out his meaning, then says. "I think I would like that. Thankyou." She responds to Georgina in kind, remaining cold. She is distressed at the baby's reaction, seemingly on the verge of screaming herself. She does not seem to notice Henry's gestures, or at least to regard them of little import.

To the twins' question, she replies, "I am not sure. Perhaps I am."

And to Lady Highdark's question she replies, "I regret I have but little accomplishment. But if it is proper, I should like to learn."

Posted: **Sat Nov 14, 2020 3:39 am**

"My wife Elizabeth is a very talented musician," Henry says. "I'm sure she can give you lessons, Eliza."

Posted: **Sat Nov 14, 2020 10:07 am**

As the other guests arrive, one by one, it is clear that Eliza captures their attention, in one manner or another. A certain young lady, dressed in the latest style, seems much taken with her.

"My dear," she says "you simply must tell me who does your hair. It is enchanting! So original!"

An older gentleman, who practices medicine, studies her closely through his spectacles. Upon learning that Doctor North is of the same profession, he draws him aside and makes inquiry.

"My Lord, what diagnosis do you make of this poor girl's condition? I have never known the like, yet she is clearly afflicted with some serious imbalance of the humours."

There is a rather foppish fellow, affecting powder in the French manner, who proceeds to flirt with Eliza in a semi-comic manner, as he does with every woman present, be she married or no. Some laugh at this, others find his behavior annoying. As he places his lips above (but not actually touching, showing some modicum of proper manners) Eliza's hand, he remarks, as he has to many other ladies, "Will you take a stroll with me in the garden, that the blossoms therein may grow jealous of one who puts their splendor to shame?"

Be this invitation accepted or not, eventually the guests will be invited to participate in a game of battledore and shuttlecock (named jeu de volant by the young fop.)

Posted: **Sat Nov 14, 2020 11:48 am**

Having never heard of this game, Lepus’ interest is piqued. If the refined company accepts his presence, he will be happy to give it a go.

Posted: **Sat Nov 14, 2020 6:42 pm**

"It is a rare condition indeed," Henry says to his fellow physician. "I'm sure you are correct about the imbalance of the humours. It could be a case of gigantism. She has grown to quite a prodigious size, and she has great strength as well."

When the game is announced, Henry will gladly participate, though his reflexes have not been the same since his exposure to the strange meteorite.

Posted: **Sat Nov 14, 2020 11:46 pm**

"Does..." Eliza says hesitantly to the young woman. "I myself, I suppose, with some help from my father and his friend. It needed little to be done."

She will accept the young fop's offer, and attempt to mirror his behaviour during the walk, while remembering what Dr North has taught her.

She is also interested in taking part in the suggested game (she variously uses all the names for it that come up rather than settling on one).

Posted: **Sun Nov 15, 2020 10:31 am**

The game of battledore and shuttlecock not being familiar to all present, Lady Highdark offers a brief explanation. One takes hold of the battledore, a sort of handled basket constructed from wood and parchment, and uses it to toss the shuttlecock, a small object consisting of feathers attached to a cork base. The object is for the players to keep the shuttlecock in the air for as long as possible, whilst conveying it from one to another.

As a further refinement of the concept, the players may be divided into two teams, each having the goal of snatching the shuttlecock from the opposing team whilst it is on the fly.

"I shall be the leader of one team," Lady Highdark says, "whilst my dear husband shall head the other. Let us arrange ourselves as we please."

The young fop quickly places himself on Lady Highdark's side of the lawn, using the excuse of having her demonstrate the proper use of the battledore to place his arm around her waist. Having suffered already the attentions of the fellow, the young woman who so admired Eliza's coiffure places herself near Lord Highdark. The doctor of medicine, his athletic youth only a memory, chooses to remain to the side, and will serve as judge, to determine which team has most cunningly sent the shuttlecock flying. The adventurers may arrange themselves as they please, there being a sufficient number of other guests to ensure that the teams will be equal in number.

Posted: **Sun Nov 15, 2020 11:43 am**

Eliza will also take Lord Highdark's side in the game.

Posted: **Sun Nov 15, 2020 1:28 pm**

After a brief discussion with the wind, Lepus opts to join Lady Highdark’s team.

Posted: **Mon Nov 16, 2020 12:47 am**

Henry joins Lord Highdark's side, primarily because he wants to be on the same team as Eliza. Not only does he not wish to oppose her, but he is also convinced that she will be a natural at this game due to her size and agility.

Posted: **Mon Nov 16, 2020 10:00 am**

The two teams thus arranged -- Lady Highdark, Lepus, the young fop, and, to even things out, Ivan, upon one side of the field, with Lord Highdark, Eliza, Doctor North, and the young woman upon the other -- play begins.

Spoiler:

The older doctor, enthused by the sight of healthful exercise, provides commentary.

"Launch the shuttlecock, my Lady! Oh, bad luck, into the ground it goes. Your turn to serve, my Lord. Dear, dear, this is off to a poor start. Can no one hurl this pretty little bird aloft? How about yon country fellow [indicating Lepus]? I say, well done! Look at it go flying, high as any young merlin! Let us see if your opponents can seize the falcon in its cage! Ah, the tall lady [indicating Eliza] is as graceful as she is, er, striking in appearance. Yes, and the handsome young lad [indicating the fop] catches it, if only just. No winks at the ladies, you merry rogue! Throw, throw I say! My fellow in the arts of healing [indicating Doctor North] honors our mutual profession with a fine catch. Thence to the mighty manservant [indicating Ivan], who displays proper obedience to his master. Toss the winged prisoner finely; you are on English ground now, not your own frozen wasteland! Oh, the pretty young lady is so cautious of her gown that she fails to secure the object of play. Victory to Lady Highdark, albeit a narrow one! Huzzah!" He tosses his hat in the air.

All are quite winded in the balmy air after this jolly battle, and proceed indoors for refreshment.

"There must be spoils for the victors," states Lord Highdark. "What shall they be?"

"I would suggest kisses," remarks the fop,"save that yon Amazon near shattered my arm whilst I paid courtesy to her."

"A recitation," Lady Highdark declares, "that the wits may be tested as finely as the sinews. Begin, if you will, my dear."

Lord Highdark assumes a serious pose and quotes from Doctor Johnson's The Vanity of Human Wishes:

The teeming mother, anxious for her race,
Begs for each birth the fortune of a face:
Yet Vane could tell what ills from beauty spring;
And Sedley curs’d the form that pleas’d a king.
Ye nymphs of rosy lips and radiant eyes,
Whom Pleasure keeps too busy to be wise,
Whom Joys with soft varieties invite,
By day the frolic, and the dance by night,
Who frown with vanity, who smile with art,
And ask the latest fashion of the heart,
What care, what rules your heedless charms shall save,
Each nymph your rival, and each youth your slave?

The young lady, of a more romantic nature, blushes slightly and recites from Lady Montagu's A Hymn to the Moon:

Thou silver deity of secret night,
Direct my footsteps through the woodland shade;
Thou conscious witness of unknown delight,
The Lover’s guardian, and the Muse’s aid!
By thy pale beams I solitary rove,
To thee my tender grief confide;
Serenely sweet you gild the silent grove,
My friend, my goddess, and my guide.
E’en thee, fair queen, from thy amazing height,
The charms of young Endymion drew;
Veil’d with the mantle of concealing night;
With all thy greatness and thy coldness too.

The group eagerly awaits what Eliza and Doctor North have to say.

Posted: **Mon Nov 16, 2020 12:11 pm**

Celebrating the win, Lepus tosses his tricorne into the air (sending a number of inoffensive insects skyward). Catching it deftly, he capers and bows to the spectators.

Grinning happily, he jigs along in time with the rhythm of the poems.

Posted: **Mon Nov 16, 2020 5:45 pm**

Eliza hesitates, uncertain how to proceed, and growing distressed as all the attention is now focussed on her. "I..." she begins, before tailing off.

Posted: **Mon Nov 16, 2020 10:06 pm**

"Perhaps I should go first," says Henry, and he begins to recite from his excellent memory The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Coleridge, which always reminds him of his never-ending struggle with Death. He also hopes that its sheer length will spare Eliza from having to recite poetry which she has not had time yet to learn.

Posted: **Tue Nov 17, 2020 11:20 am**

This clever ploy requires sufficient time that all are ready to set aside the recitations and proceed to a light repast. If there be any comment upon Eliza's reticence, it is ascribed to the shyness that oft accompanies a person of the female sex who is, like Shakespeare's Rosalind, "more than common tall."

The meal is of no great size, but of fine quality, consisting of such rare and costly items as chicken, peas, artichokes, and even that curious vegetable, newly imported from the New World, bearing the somewhat comical name of potato. There is sufficient ale and port to comfort the soul.

There is polite conversation, this being known to be conducive to digestion, eliciting opinions from the guests as such subjects "this Bonaparte fellow" (shall there be war again?) and the learned females known as bluestockings, who some fancy to be modern Muses; is such accomplish congruent with virtue?

"What say you, my friends," Lord Highdark remarks, as he enjoys an early strawberry.

Posted: **Tue Nov 17, 2020 1:40 pm**

Lepus, having failed to solicit this new-fangled potato in conversation, declares it edible. Thus he chews on this vegetable noisily while he considers the topics bandied about the table.

“I know little of this Napoleon. Be it true the fellow is an ogre? Mayhap a modest tribute of goats will placate the monster and keep him from these shores? Such animals be mighty pleasing to ogres,” he says, sagely.

“Bluestockings? I once knew a faerie who called herself Yellow Stockings. ‘twas a distant cousin as I recall. Mighty appetite for men’s hearts and hen’s livers, but would nary tell a book from one of these po-tay-toes,” he declares, waving the one impaled on his fork.

Posted: **Tue Nov 17, 2020 10:13 pm**

Eliza tries some of each type of food, and seems to enjoy everything she tastes (although some combinations may surprise onlookers). The potato seems acceptable enough. "Is Bonaparte too of great size?" she asks in response to Lepus describing him as an ogre, since such a term was also applied to her. This is no doubt greeted with laughter as if she had made a joke - to which Eliza reacts with a heated expression, which may be embarassment or anger. Regarding the bluestockings, she says "I know far less of the would than I should like. I cannot fault others for thinking the same."

Posted: **Wed Nov 18, 2020 3:39 am**

"This potato may look strange, but it's quite delicious," says Henry. sampling it. "I wonder how it would taste fried."

"Bonaparte is of rather short stature, actually," he adds when the subject arises. "Not an ogre, but perhaps he is a faerie himself, a changeling left behind in place of a human babe. In any case, I expect more trouble from him. As for the bluestockings, I have always advocated the education of women. God gave them their talents for a reason. It would be a shame to waste them."

Posted: **Wed Nov 18, 2020 10:38 am**

There is much amusement at the eccentric replies given by Lepus, and appreciation for Eliza's witty remark (even if it not be intended in that fashion.) After Lady Highdark acknowledges Doctor North's wise response with a nod, and the fop makes some half-whispered remark about appreciating any shade of a lady's stockings, so long as they be properly removable, the conversation is interrupted by a shout from without.

"Steal from me, would ye? Old Longbones knows a thing or three, he does!"

Peering out the window, it can be seen that the speaker in question is, curiously enough, engaged in planting seeds of some kind in the ground.

Posted: **Wed Nov 18, 2020 11:43 am**

"Him!" snarls Eliza in a tone fit more for beast than woman. She stands, as if to charge out of the room toward her erstwhile captor.

Posted: **Thu Nov 19, 2020 4:21 am**

"That's the blackguard that enslaved Eliza," says Henry, drawing his pistol. "Ivan, come with us. Whatever he's up to with those seeds, it isn't good."

Posted: **Thu Nov 19, 2020 10:58 am**

“Aye, the fellow be dangerous. Mayhap the fine gentlemen should escort the fine ladies to a safe place,” Lepus warns the guests. “Leave us to deal with the man.”

Posted: **Sat Nov 21, 2020 9:41 pm**

Spoiler:

From the places where the hermit has placed the seeds (or whatever they may be) it can be seen that the ground is rising. There are five such places, from which large mounds of dirt now protrude, and increase in height as one observes them.

Posted: **Sat Nov 21, 2020 10:32 pm**

"I've heard tell of goblins' teeth," says Henry, standing ready. "When planted in the ground, they are supposed to sprout into goblins. I've never seen such for myself, and I never gave such tales credence, but I've seen enough strange things to know that they are possible."

Posted: **Sun Nov 22, 2020 12:55 pm**

Eliza maintains barely enough self control not to smash her way out through the window, but makes for the nearest door by which she can reach her enemy.

Posted: **Sun Nov 22, 2020 4:17 pm**

Muttering darkly, Lepus follows Eliza.

“Let’s us put an end to this, yesno?”

Posted: **Sun Nov 22, 2020 6:33 pm**

From under the ground emerge five skeletons, each one carrying a short sword and a small round shield. They march toward the adventurers in military formation, ready to engage in battle. The hermit stands well behind them.

"Yield the wench, or be slain by the Spartoi!"

Posted: **Sun Nov 22, 2020 7:22 pm**

"I am not your slave!" screams Eliza. If one of the skeletons approaches her, she'll grab at it and try to tear it apart.

Posted: **Sun Nov 22, 2020 10:10 pm**

“Listen to yon girl!” Lepus hollers. “Thou shalt not enslave her again! Go back to thy solitary life Longbones and trouble us no more, lest I thrash thee!”

Posted: **Sun Nov 22, 2020 10:43 pm**

Henry takes aim with his pistol at one of the Spartoi and brandishes his cane with his other hand. "Would that William had not left yet," he says, "though swords will be less effective against them. We need to use blunt weapons. Ivan, use your sword cane as a club instead of drawing the blade. We shall smash them to pieces!"

Posted: **Thu Nov 26, 2020 11:26 am**

Spoiler:

Perhaps it is her natural rage at the one who formerly held her in thrall, but it is Eliza who first strikes at the enemy. The others, perhaps startled by the appearance of walking skeletons, pause just long enough for the creatures to avoid their blows.

Spoiler:

Smashing into the skeleton's skull with her fists, Eliza manages to completely destroy the bony sphere. The rest of the skeleton collapses to the ground.

Spoiler:

The quartet of monsters remaining attack with the precision of soldiers, each one pursuing a single target, but only one manages to strike its target; to wit, that aimed at Lepus.

Spoiler:

The bronze sword of the creature proven to be as dangerous as one of steel.

Posted: **Thu Nov 26, 2020 12:40 pm**

Hissing with pain, Lepus staggers backwards, muttering the incantation to summon his unseen servant as he does so.

Commanding it to seize the sword off the skeleton who attacked him, he launches himself against the bony creature.

Posted: **Thu Nov 26, 2020 7:29 pm**

Compelled by her rage, Eliza strikes at the next nearest of the skeletons, presumably the one that attacked her. Should she succeed in destroying it, her former captor himself will be the next target of her wrath.

Posted: **Thu Nov 26, 2020 7:46 pm**

His pistol discharged, Henry swings his cane at the skeleton attacking him.

Posted: **Fri Nov 27, 2020 8:48 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
His pistol discharged, Henry swings his cane at the skeleton attacking him.

OOC,You rolled 1d6 for the attack rolls against us instead of 1d20, so naturally all of the results were less than 10. Chances are some of those attacks will miss.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Fri Nov 27, 2020 8:55 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Hissing with pain, Lepus staggers backwards, muttering the incantation to summon his unseen servant as he does so.

Commanding it to seize the sword off the skeleton who attacked him, he launches himself against the bony creature.

Spoiler:

The invisible servant fails to take hold of the weapon, but distracts the skeleton sufficiently to allow Lepus to successfully strike at it.

Spoiler:

Smashing at its ribcage, exposed during the struggle with the unseen servant, Lepus reduces the creature to a pile of jumbled bones.

Posted: **Fri Nov 27, 2020 9:00 am**

SunlessNick wrote: Compelled by her rage, Eliza strikes at the next nearest of the skeletons, presumably the one that attacked her. Should she succeed in destroying it, her former captor himself will be the next target of her wrath.

Spoiler:

Blinded by fury, Eliza thrashes at the monster without effect.

Posted: **Fri Nov 27, 2020 9:05 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
His pistol discharged, Henry swings his cane at the skeleton attacking him.

Spoiler:

Doctor North smashes his cane into the creature's skull, causing it to roll across the ground as if this were no more than a game of paille-maille, and rendering the being no more than a pile of bones.

Posted: **Fri Nov 27, 2020 9:15 am**

Spoiler:

Perhaps because the only defender who has suffered any wounds is Lepus, the sole remaining skeleton warrior presses his attack upon him, landing another blow, although with no so great an effect as before.

Seeing that the tide of battle has turned against his arcane troops, the hermit makes haste to retreat, running off in the direction of the moors.

Posted: **Fri Nov 27, 2020 10:57 am**

Lepus again staggers under the blow, bidding his unseen servant to grab the skeleton’s legs (in the manner of, some decades hence, one might describe as a rugby tackle).

He glared at the retreating back of the ultimate cause of his injuries and mutters a dark curse.

Posted: **Fri Nov 27, 2020 8:27 pm**

Eliza continues attacking the skeletons.

Posted: **Sat Nov 28, 2020 2:39 am**

"I dub thee Napoleon Bones-apart," says Henry as he smashes the skeleton. Then he tries to outflank the skeleton fighting Eliza to likewise dispatch it - or at least distract it.

Posted: **Sat Nov 28, 2020 9:27 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Lepus again staggers under the blow, bidding his unseen servant to grab the skeleton’s legs (in the manner of, some decades hence, one might describe as a rugby tackle).

He glared at the retreating back of the ultimate cause of his injuries and mutters a dark curse.

OOC,If possible, Lepus will curse the hermit with the ‘fame’ spell.

Spoiler:

A loud thump is heard as the invisible servant, seemingly unused to the rougher forms of outdoor sport, lands upon the ground, without grasping the skeleton. A few muttered curses emerge from the empty air.

Spoiler:

The malediction wished upon the fleeing figure does not seem to have any effect upon his fevered flight. By this time, the family and guests have gathered near the door of the manor home, much alarmed at the to-do occurring outside.

Posted: **Sat Nov 28, 2020 9:35 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Eliza continues attacking the skeletons.

Spoiler:

Eliza manages to pull off one of the skeleton's arms and hurl it high into the air. This would be a most debilitating wound for an ordinary mortal, but such handicap does not seem to effect the monster's ability to wield a sword, although it drops the shield to the ground.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Sat Nov 28, 2020 9:41 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"I dub thee Napoleon Bones-apart," says Henry as he smashes the skeleton. Then he tries to outflank the skeleton fighting Eliza to likewise dispatch it - or at least distract it.

OOC,You're welcome. That was a much better outcome!

Spoiler:

Working together, man and master rip apart what remains of the one-armed creature until it is no more than a pile of broken bones. (Perhaps it was grim amusement on the part of both at Doctor North's witty quip that inspired them to attack with such effectiveness.)

The figure of the hermit is lost beyond the hills and trees of the estate. The bronze swords and shields remain on the ground, like some memento of the Trojan War.

Posted: **Sat Nov 28, 2020 12:40 pm**

Eliza stands where she is, quivering as she slowly winds own her fury. "Thankyou for defending me Father, Lepus, Ivan," she says, rather incongruously when compared to her behaviour of moments before. "I fear my dress may be diasarranged."

Posted: **Sat Nov 28, 2020 5:42 pm**

"Ah, 'twas an honour," Lepus grins, all traces of animosity towards the revenant girl forgotten. "'tis a shame my curse didn't land, else the hermit wouldn't be as such for much longer!"

He bends down to help up his servant (odd that no one else has done so; it is almost as if the fellow is invisible!)

"I am sorry for asking too much of thee Britches. Mayhap we will deal with the rogue once and for all, then you can rest for a while."

To the assembled company he bows, waving a hand towards the discarded weaponry.

"Echoes of antiquity for thy collections. Old Lepus has no need for such things, but has an eye for these seeds..."

He scours the ground for any of Longbones' seeds that have not germinated.

Posted: **Sat Nov 28, 2020 6:41 pm**

"You are quite welcome, my dear," says Henry with a bow. He uses his Regenerator to treat Lepus's wounds. While he knows it is running low on galvanic fluid, he thinks there is still at least one use left in it before it needs to be refilled.

Posted: **Sun Nov 29, 2020 11:41 am**

There do not appear to be any more of the small objects that the hermit placed into the ground, and from which these unnatural warriors emerged. This seems reasonable, as it would be most unwise not to keep a careful eye upon such things, lest they be wasted.

It may be observed that the skeletons, as all bones must, eventually crumble into dust; however, this occurs at an extraordinarily rapid rate, as if centuries pass by with every heartbeat. In like manner, the swords and shields break apart into countless tiny fragments. Sic transit gloria mundi.

Once the guests have had time to recover, in body and wits, from this encounter, conversation turns to the instigator of the invasion.

"We shall have to launch an attack against this so-called hermit, before more disaster follows," Lord Highdark declares. "Gentlemen," he continues, notably disregarding Eliza, "we must have a strategy, lest his sorcery be our undoing. What say you?"

Posted: **Sun Nov 29, 2020 1:52 pm**

"He used me most grievously," Eliza says, apparently oblivious to Lord Highdark's disregard, "and has twice now sought revenge for my rescue as if he were the wronged party. He will not desist now."

Posted: **Sun Nov 29, 2020 3:23 pm**

"Aye; he will not desist 'til he has you under his thrall." Lepus says. "Even if the menfolk of the estate be gathered to march 'pon his hut and force him to leave, he would soon come back. My vexing, had it struck, would have changed his character to a less vengeful one, but such a thing cannot be uttered often."

"Mayhap he could be persuaded to abandon his folly?," he continues. "By flattery or coercion? Let us look into the character of the man, yesno? Ask of the locals about his desires and wants; look to old legends about his forebears. See how they obtained such devices and knowledge to call forth the Furies and bring back yon Spartans."

Posted: **Mon Nov 30, 2020 12:15 am**

"An excellent suggestion," says Henry. He then quotes Donne. "No man is an island. Those who live nearby must know of him, and the more information we can find, the better equipped we shall be. If we can find out how he came by his powers, we may be able to determine how to neutralise them."

Posted: **Mon Nov 30, 2020 10:38 am**

Much inquiry is made in the village of Lowhaven as to the nature of the hermit. From almost all who are questioned comes only the information that he has lived alone on the moors for as long as anyone can recall, his lonely existence only vouchsafed by the witness of shepherds and goatherds who happened to venture that way. At last, the adventurers meet an ancient beldam, thought by her neighbors to be nearly a century old, who claims to know more.

"Aye, 'twas many and many a year ago. I was a mere child then, when Old Longbones first came to these parts. He was old even then, as I am now. Spake a heathen tongue, nowt a bit o' sense to it. Weren't much later that he learned to talk like ordinary folks, tho. Earned his bread a-tellin' stories. Oh, most wondrous stories they was, wars and sea voyages and monsters and such. Then off he went, without a 'good day' to any, and been's there ever since. Said his name, it seems, fore we all knew him as Old Longbones. What was now. Not Timothy, no, though like to that, it seems."

Posted: **Mon Nov 30, 2020 10:52 am**

“Tithonus, mayhap?” asks Lepus, searching the dusty corners of his memory for any stories of human immortals from Greek legend.

Posted: **Mon Nov 30, 2020 11:15 am**

"Oh, aye, was some such heathenish name as that. Knew you him, then?"

Posted: **Mon Nov 30, 2020 12:17 pm**

“Only in tales old Lepus heard long ago,” says the wanderer. “‘tis said he was sweet in the goddess Eos. ‘twas granted immortality so they could be together, but did not think to grant everlasting youth. So yon fellow lives forever, always ageing.”

Lepus laughs.

“No wonder he be so ill-tempered!”

Posted: **Mon Nov 30, 2020 1:17 pm**

Eliza's inclination is simply to kill the hermit, so that he can be no threat to anyone - but, apparent as it is that such a plan does not seem to be the preference of those two who are her touchstones for humanity, she refrains from giving voice to it.

Posted: **Tue Dec 01, 2020 5:27 am**

"What else do you know of him?" asks Henry. "We cannot restore his youth, but there may be a way to remove the curse of immortality, thus rendering him mortal."

Posted: **Tue Dec 01, 2020 11:25 am**

Within the many books relating to Hellenic mythology within Lord Highdark's eccentric and haphazard library, there are some which suggest that the Tithonus of legend was transformed into a locust, or some such insect; which does not appear to have happened to the hermit, unless this metamorphosis were somehow reversed. In either case, it remains to be determined in what manner to approach said miscreant; or, indeed, if he still occupies the same modest hut as before, or has taken himself to some other place, in preparation for defense.

Posted: **Tue Dec 01, 2020 2:09 pm**

"Mayhap we can summon the goddess Eos from her slumber," Lepus suggests in all seriousness when the party reconvenes (perhaps the hedge wizard knows something about the summoning of the gods of antiquity?)

"'twould also be wise to scout the hermit's abode. If he still dwells within then our battleground is known. If not, then we might find something of use discarded therein."

Posted: **Tue Dec 01, 2020 3:36 pm**

"How would this goddess aid us?" asks Eliza, uncertain of Lepus's intent. "I agree," she says of the hut, "and if is not there, we can deny him its refuge for later."

Posted: **Tue Dec 01, 2020 3:54 pm**

Lepus shrugs. “She could take her lover back to Olympus or relieve him of the burden of immortality, yesno?”

Posted: **Tue Dec 01, 2020 7:33 pm**

"They are lovers? I understand now."

Posted: **Wed Dec 02, 2020 3:56 am**

Henry is curious how Eliza knows of such things, though he says nothing on the subject. Perhaps memories of her former life are resurfacing. "Agreed as well," he says. "Let us waste no time in setting out."

Posted: **Wed Dec 02, 2020 10:03 am**

Investigation of the hermit's hut reveals that the goats, chickens, and pigs have been allowed to run free. Given the likewise abandoned crops, and the richness in flora of the surrounding moor, this has not proven to be much of a burden to them. Being fully domesticated, they show no inclination to leave the immediate area.

The interior of the hut is something of a shambles, particularly in contrast to its appearance when first seen. Scattered about are ordinary household objects, as if someone were in haste to secure those items of most importance.

If there be a way to engage the attention of Eos, as suggested by Lepus, the manner in which this might be accomplished is not immediately evident, given that interaction with deities lies somewhat outside the field of hedge magic.

Posted: **Wed Dec 02, 2020 12:14 pm**

Having spent some time in the hut, even if not in her right mind, Eliza tries to picture the scattered objects in their places and reason out what may be missing.

Posted: **Wed Dec 02, 2020 1:41 pm**

Lepus pokes around the hut for anything of interest.

“I know not how to invoke the goddess,” he says conversationally. “Though mayhap calling for her at daybreak might suffice; she being the goddess of dawn, yesno?”

Once he has finished searching, he will mooch outside, looking for tracks.

Posted: **Thu Dec 03, 2020 4:37 am**

"I suppose it is worth a try," says Henry.

Posted: **Thu Dec 10, 2020 10:21 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Having spent some time in the hut, even if not in her right mind, Eliza tries to picture the scattered objects in their places and reason out what may be missing.

Spoiler:

If there is order to this chaos, Eliza is unable to determine what it might be.

Posted: **Thu Dec 10, 2020 10:30 am**

jp1885 wrote: Lepus pokes around the hut for anything of interest.

]

Spoiler:

Hidden in a tall clay jar with two handles and a narrow neck are several small bronze coins, evidently of great age.

“I know not how to invoke the goddess,” he says conversationally. “Though mayhap calling for her at daybreak might suffice; she being the goddess of dawn, yesno?”

Once he has finished searching, he will mooch outside, looking for tracks.

Spoiler:

The hermit, in apparent haste, made no attempt to conceal his movements. By following the disturbed flora of the moors, it is apparent that he first made stop at the ruins of Duncan's Cairn, then, from thence, proceeded to the south side of the Highdark estate.

Posted: **Thu Dec 10, 2020 11:00 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: "I suppose it is worth a try," says Henry.

There remains the question of what type of ceremony might prove pleasing to the alleged deity. There is time to consider the question, as the otherwise pleasant gathering at Highdark Hall interrupted in so frightful a manner, it is now late in the afternoon.

Posted: **Thu Dec 10, 2020 4:17 pm**

“I have found the knave’s trail,” announces Lepus.

“Though it grows dark, shall us rush to the attack or stay our hands? Mayhap there be a classical scholar among the assembled guests who might advise us,” he muses, idly inspecting the coins as he does so.

Posted: **Fri Dec 11, 2020 1:22 am**

Eliza visibly restrains herself from rushing after the hermit there and then - instead she says, "We dealt with his previous attack, and that was when preparation and surprise were on his side."

Posted: **Fri Dec 11, 2020 3:32 am**

"We dealt with it, yes," says Henry, "but he escaped. We need to make sure he doesn't do that again. I think we may want to talk to a scholar and find a way to contact the goddess first. If she can get through to him, he will not flee."

Posted: **Fri Dec 11, 2020 10:32 am**

It is deemed a wise idea for all to get a good night's rest before undertaking any further action. The other guests having taken their leave, no doubt with many a tale to tell, the manor home is, for the nonce, at peace.

Not so for all who reside therein. For, as is related during a light breaking of fast, Lady Highdark admits to enduring a series of disturbing dreams, the exact nature of which is not fit for open discussion. No others report such an experience, save Harold, the eldest son of the Altumbers. (Said person, by the by, also making inquiry as to under what circumstances Eliza would be willing to pose for portraiture, the Highdark heir fancying himself something of an artist.)

Arrangements are made to secure an interview with a learned antiquary, cognizant of Attic rituals. That personage residing at some distance from the estate, sending message to him and then awaiting his arrival requires a full day of patience, during which the adventurers may engage in such action as they please.

Upon examination of the old coins, they prove to be that small denomination known as obols, and show signs of having been exposed to water for an extended period.

Posted: **Fri Dec 11, 2020 8:53 pm**

"I would be delighted to pose for you," Eliza says to Harold. "Perhaps while we await the scholarly gentleman, if that is sufficient time?"

In private she asks Dr North and Lepus whether they think the hermit could be responsible for these dreams - "though I do not know why he should afflict the family and not us."

Posted: **Fri Dec 11, 2020 9:29 pm**

Having examined the coins, Lepus carefully pockets them, promising to return them to Charon should he ever encounter the ferryman.

His grubby ears pick up at the mention of dreams.

"Didst thy father also suffer from such things my lord?" he asks Lord Highdark. "Mayhap such a thing passes from father to son? Oh! I have heard tell that often a mesmerist can reveal long forgotten dreams."

Posted: **Sat Dec 12, 2020 5:15 am**

"He may be responsible," says Henry, "though with all the strange occurrences around here, it could have some other source. I could attempt the technique of mesmerism to help someone recall forgotten dreams, if the subject is willing."

Posted: **Sat Dec 12, 2020 10:19 am**

Withdrawing with Eliza into a room which currently serves as an artist's studio, Harold rummages through a mare's nest of curious objects, discarding many to one side without much care for order, and selecting those few he deems appropriate. After some time engaged in this activity, he offers these to his chosen model. These prove to be a stuffed owl, an olive branch bearing a few fruits (shriveled with age, it seems), a shield covered with the skin of a hairy animal of some sort, and a wooden spear tipped with a bronze head.

"I shall entitle this work Athena Parthenos," he declaims.

Moving to a large chest in one corner of the room, he reaches inside, throwing out all manner of fanciful garb, until he discovers what appears to be a long, loose, sleeveless garment of simple design, ivory in color.

"Array yourself. I shall return after sufficient time has passed to allow you to be entirely pleased with your appearance," he remarks, indicating a tall mirror standing near his easel and paints. He leaves the room with a bow.

Posted: **Sat Dec 12, 2020 10:28 am**

Lady Highdark agrees to be mesmerized, but Harold prefers not to undergo the procedure.

Doctor North induces a trance through the alignment of her flows of animal magnetism, this procedure involving regular movements of his hands over her person. Once in this state, she speaks in a voice lower than is her norm.

"Cotytto! Mistress of wild places! I come to thee! I come!"

With this pronouncement, she falls into unconsciousness, but is easily roused. Questioned as to the reason for her outburst, she denies memory, but is observed to be blushing, a phenomenon not often associated with that worldly and sophisticated lady.

Posted: **Sat Dec 12, 2020 10:31 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Having examined the coins, Lepus carefully pockets them, promising to return them to Charon should he ever encounter the ferryman.

His grubby ears pick up at the mention of dreams.

"Didst thy father also suffer from such things my lord?" he asks Lord Highdark. "Mayhap such a thing passes from father to son? Oh! I have heard tell that often a mesmerist can reveal long forgotten dreams."

All present, save for Harold and Lady Highdark, deny being subject to nightmares, save on rare occasions, and are not familiar with such being common among their ancestors.

Posted: **Sat Dec 12, 2020 5:26 pm**

OOC: Argh, I misread the above and thought it was Lord, not Lady Highdark who had the dreams.

Lepus ponders the information elicited. He draws Dr. North aside.

“Mayhap the dreams are sent to those of a passionate disposition? The young heir be a man of strong feelings and temperament and the mistress of the house... mayhap our old soldier friend would attest to her vices... Be there a temple to Cotytto in the grounds? She be a goddess of carnal passion, yesno?”

Posted: **Sat Dec 12, 2020 7:28 pm**

"And one goddess may very well be able to reach out to another," says Henry. "I know not if there is a temple to her here, but we can certainly find out."

Posted: **Sun Dec 13, 2020 1:06 am**

Eliza suspects the dress covers far less of her body than it is intended to, although some of the paintings around the house suggest to her that this may not be a concern when it comes to art. She dons it as best she can and finds a seat for herself, trying to place one foot higher than the other, so the skirt falls from one thigh to the other. She chooses to hold the spear upright in one hand, lean the shield against her leg, cradle the owl in the crook of her other arm, and place the olive branch in her lap. She then calls Harold back to see if he is satisfied with the result.

Posted: **Sun Dec 13, 2020 10:24 am**

Discrete inquiry of Lord Highdark elicits the information that, indeed, there is a structure, built to the specifications of an ancestor of that gentleman, the draughtman's sketches for which bears the title A Temple, Dedicated To Cotytto. Lord Highdark not being cognizant of the name, does not display much interest in this subject.

"A mere folly, I confess, simple in structure and bereft of any decoration, consisting merely of a number of Doric columns surmounted by a dome. I am afraid it has fallen into disrepair over the years. No one here has visited for many a year, the place being devoid of interest. If it excites your curiosity, it is located not far from the tennis court -- a more entertaining place, by far! -- and the rose garden. A spiral path, winding up a gentle slope, leads from the floral display to the temple. I suppose the walk might function as a constitutional, even if the destination be not worth the journey."

Posted: **Sun Dec 13, 2020 10:30 am**

"Perfect!" exclaims Harold. "Do not move! I must capture this pose."

With sketchbook and pencils he begins work on a preliminary design for the painting. The process is a slow and lengthy one, requiring much patience on the part of the model, whose limbs grow weary with the effort of remaining motionless. (It is a paradox of Nature that inactivity may demand as high a price as effort.)

After much time has passed, Harold puts down his work.

"Enough for today. Shall we say again, this same time, on the morrow? With good luck, the work may completed with, say, a fortnight. Or two."

Posted: **Sun Dec 13, 2020 8:39 pm**

"I shall take a walk to yon temple then," announces Lepus. "And see what's to be seen, yesno?"

Posted: **Mon Dec 14, 2020 12:08 am**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:"Enough for today. Shall we say again, this same time, on the morrow? With good luck, the work may completed with, say, a fortnight. Or two."

"So long?" Eliza said before catching herself. "Forgive me. No one has painted me before. I should be happy to resume tomorrow."

Posted: **Mon Dec 14, 2020 2:26 am**

"I would like to accompany you," Henry says to Lepus.

Posted: **Mon Dec 14, 2020 10:48 am**

The initial session with Harold done for the day, Eliza is free to accompany her companions in their journey to the temple if she so desires. It is notable that divesting herself of all the objects with which she was posing requires a fair amount of time, not to mention changing her raiment, and that this procedure, repeated day after day, is likely to prove tedious.

The path from the manor home passes by the tennis court, where Julia and Juno are engaged in a game that does not appear to obey any of the rules of that royal sport, but rather consists of throwing the ball back and forth, hurling it to great distances with the racquets, and so forth. Upon seeing the adventurers walk by, they giggle and whisper together. One of them -- who can say which one? -- hurls the ball, a solid object composed of heavy strips of wool surrounding a tightly wrapped core of the same material, the whole surrounded by lighter cloth, tied upon the sphere with many strings, at the approaching trio.

Spoiler:

The ball strikes Lepus upon the forehead, resulting in sudden pain, if no actual harm. Having been successful in this artillery attack, the twins laugh and dance about merrily.

Posted: **Mon Dec 14, 2020 1:02 pm**

Lepus yowls in surprise as the ball bounces off his head. Snarling, he turns to unleash a torrent of abuse on the assailant, but, seeing that the young twins are responsible, his expression softens.

“Little rapscallions!” he chuckles. “Throwing away a perfectly good apple!”

He pretends to take a bite out of the ball, palming it into his pocket and substituting it for a somewhat bruised apple.

Posted: **Mon Dec 14, 2020 1:14 pm**

Eliza looks between Lepus and the twins, puzzled by Lepus's seeming equanimity in the face of this assault, and unsure how to act.

Posted: **Tue Dec 15, 2020 3:21 am**

"Your grasp of physics is excellent!" calls Henry to the twins. "That was a fine trajectory."

Posted: **Tue Dec 15, 2020 9:36 am**

Evidently pleased that their prank has not elicited the expected scolding, the two girls approach with wide smiles.

"Do another trick, funny man," one says to Lepus.

"Yes, and we want the ogre lady to play with us," the other remarks. This one -- is it Juno or Julia? -- directing her attention to Doctor North, continues "Mother makes us take physics when we are wicked, but what is jec-tor-ree?"

To this remark, the first one -- is it Julia or Juno? -- makes a face of disgust and says "We hate nasty physics."

"Yes, so we must not tell you of our wicked dream." Realizing that her tongue has acted ahead of her brain, this one covers her mouth with her hands, while the other one pokes her and makes shushing sounds.

Posted: **Tue Dec 15, 2020 12:46 pm**

"Ogres are supposed to like wicked things," says Eliza, "so it must be all right to tell me."

Posted: **Tue Dec 15, 2020 1:37 pm**

“Bad dreams are made better when shared, yesno?” says Lepus. “Mayhap an exchange: a trick for a dream?”

If the twins agree to tell the assembled party about their dreams, he will perform some feats of legerdemain for their entertainment.

Posted: **Wed Dec 16, 2020 3:54 am**

"By physics I don't mean medicine," says Henry. "I mean the good kind of physics: the science of how the world and the things in it work. Trajectory means the course that a projectile, such as the object you threw, takes as it moves through the air. You hit your mark, so you were effectively using physics whether you were conscious of it or not."

Posted: **Wed Dec 16, 2020 9:51 am**

Having thus been tempted to share their secret through the promise of a bribe, the twins narrate their dream, which seems to have been experienced by both in exactly the same way.

"There were ever so many people," one begins.

"Yes, and they were dancing, thus," continues the other, demonstrating by jumping wildly about, in a feigned state of extreme agitation. She is soon joined by her sister. The two cease after a moment, out of breath.

After recovering from this exertion, one of them -- they have been moving about so rapidly, in such complicated patterns, that one cannot be sure if this is the first one or the second one -- goes on.

"And they had their arms wrapped around each other tightly, as if they would squeeze each other to death."

"And they were kissing," adds the other, sending the pair into a fit of giggles.

Whilst still laughing hysterically, red-faced and gasping, they are able to go on, speaking together, one word at a time, the interval between each filled with heavy breaths, "And. They. Had. No. Clothes."

This is so funny that they both fall to the ground and roll about, staining their dresses on the grass, as no doubt often occurs.

Posted: **Wed Dec 16, 2020 12:17 pm**

Raising a crusty eyebrow, Lepus exchanges glances with his companions.

“Pssht! Mayhap Cotytto is calling to those from the lady of the house’s bloodline, yesno? ‘tis odd that this should happen now... coincidence that yon hermit wishes us ill?”

Posted: **Thu Dec 17, 2020 1:26 am**

Despite having earlier shown semblance of familiarity with the concept of lovers, Eliza seems more perplexed by this account than anything else. "If this is some sort of attack, it is a very strange one, yesno? If it affects those of Lady Highdark's blood, should one of us as Georgia about it?"

Posted: **Thu Dec 17, 2020 2:53 am**

"That is a thought," says Henry. "If any of us is to do it, it should be you, my dear. She would be more likely to speak of such dreams to another lady. I'm not sure that our enemy is behind the dreams, yet neither do I think it a coincidence. Perhaps Cotytto is causing the dreams herself, in order to make contact."

Posted: **Thu Dec 17, 2020 4:02 am**

"I think she is afraid of me," replies Eliza to the suggestion that she be the one to speak to Georgia.

Posted: **Thu Dec 17, 2020 8:30 pm**

"Well, I could try speaking to her," says Henry. "If she cannot remember her dreams, and if she is willing, I can try mesmerism again."

Posted: **Thu Dec 24, 2020 10:39 am**

Without revealing the exact reason for his request, Doctor North is able to persuade Georgina to enter the mesmeric state. (Such activities are not unknown as a source of amusement in society, and thus there is no need to explain his true motive.)

Whilst under the influence of animal magnetism, Georgina relates her most recent dreams; the which, as is true of many of those under the spell of Morpheus, are lost to memory as soon as one arises.

"I was there with my dear husband, with my precious babe in my arms," she relates, in a low, soft voice. "We strolled through fields of sweet-smelling flowers. Larks and doves alit upon my outstretched hand, and sang to me sweetly. Lambs frolicked at our feet, and even wild deer came to me, and offered their heads to be stroked, like gentle dogs."

Posted: **Thu Dec 24, 2020 9:46 pm**

"Not at all like that of the twins, then," remarks Eliza in a tone rather more dry than usual.

Posted: **Fri Dec 25, 2020 3:27 am**

"No, but it is a dream about nature," says Henry. "Perhaps it does have to do with the goddess."

Posted: **Fri Dec 25, 2020 10:31 am**

This experiment in mesmerism having been performed, with results, perhaps, raising more questions than have been answered, Harold takes the opportunity, now that the adventurers have returned to the manor home, to request another sitting by Eliza. As this is arranged, another idea springs into his head.

"A background of roses would be a fine addition to my painting. If you would care to gather some dozen or so, while I prepare my paints and brushes?"

As the rose garden lies near the Temple of Cotytto, this might be a chance, as they say, to strike at a brace of birds with a single stone.

Posted: **Fri Dec 25, 2020 10:18 pm**

"I know just where we might find some," says Henry.

Posted: **Fri Dec 25, 2020 10:23 pm**

"Hmm, mayhap the young mistress' innocent nature be enough to trump any wanton desires," Lepus muses. "Let us gather roses near the temple, perchance to converse with yon goddess."

Posted: **Sat Dec 26, 2020 12:45 pm**

The rose garden proves to offer a wide variety of shades of blossoms, from deep red to pure white to bright yellow to gentle pink to vivid orange. It requires judgement to decide what combination of colors would best be suited for the desired background of the painting.

Posted: **Sat Dec 26, 2020 6:20 pm**

Eliza favours red and white roses, saying she thinks they will look better with the colours already present in the scene. She seems to be quite taken with the act of picking them, closely examining how the stems come apart or emerge from the ground. "How like are they to the working of our own bodies?" she asks.

Posted: **Sat Dec 26, 2020 6:30 pm**

"Hm, I know not," admits Lepus. "Oft a young swain will try to win the heart of their ladyfriend with a rose; by all accounts."

The limit of knowledge on such matters exhausted, he snips off a yellow rose for himself (should it be required to attract the goddess of the dawn).

Posted: **Sat Dec 26, 2020 6:43 pm**

"An excellent selection," says Henry. "Yes, it is fascinating to see how vastly different forms of life have so much in common. Plants are different in many ways. They do not eat food as we do, but they absorb sunlight as well as nutrients from the soil and water. It was Robert Hooke who discovered that they are composed of cells, tiny chambers too small to be seen without a microscope. Our own bodies also consist of cells, though plant cells are surrounded by walls and are hardier than our own."

Posted: **Sun Dec 27, 2020 10:09 am**

The adventurers return the blossoms to Harold's studio, and another long and exhausting session of posing begins for Eliza.

Posted: **Sun Dec 27, 2020 1:11 pm**

Lepus giggles and capers more than usual as he brings the rose to the studio.

“Hehehe, paint yon girl well young master!” he gurns at Harold. “So that she be immortalised!”

“Now, do the rest of us visit the temple this night?”

Posted: **Sun Dec 27, 2020 11:33 pm**

"Thankyou again," Eliza says to Harold after the new sitting. "There are few who look on me as they would a normal girl. I find it a great solace to be your subject."

Posted: **Mon Dec 28, 2020 2:22 am**

"Indeed, I would like to see the temple," says Henry.

Posted: **Mon Dec 28, 2020 11:09 am**

Once day is done, and the adventurers have restored themselves in preparation for the evening's activities, they make their way to the temple. No doubt they carry lanterns, but the presence of many fireflies and bright moonlight make this hardly necessary.

The temple is simple in design, as Lord Highdark has remarked, consisting of thirteen Doric columns supporting a circular dome. The trail leading up to the temple, which is located at the top of as slight rise, winds widdershins in a tight spiral. Within the temple there is little to be found, save a scattering of leaves and twigs, stirred by a gentle wind. At the very top of the dome is a small chole, through which one can study the night sky, if there be some celestial body to be observed.

Posted: **Mon Dec 28, 2020 2:42 pm**

Lepus moves to a position under the hole, shuffling about until he can line up a random star. In the same manner as he has conversed with several strange entities around the estate, he opens up his senses.

"Oh denizen of the temple, may we converse with thee?" he enquires.

Posted: **Mon Dec 28, 2020 8:07 pm**

"Father, there is something I do not understand," Eliza says quietly to Dr North while Lepus works. "In my instruction, you speak of there being only one god. Yet the title of god and goddess is granted to others too, like the beneficiary of this temple. Does god bear more than one meaning?"

Posted: **Tue Dec 29, 2020 5:10 am**

"Ah, an excellent question, Eliza," replies Henry. "There is in fact only one true God, with a capital G, who created all things. Yet there are other things worshipped by man that are called gods and goddesses, with a lowercase g. Some of these beings may not be real, but the inventions of man. Others may be supernatural entities that may have some power of their own, though nothing to compare with the power of God, who has commanded that we have no other gods before Him, for He is a jealous God."

Posted: **Tue Dec 29, 2020 10:02 am**

A softly glowing beam of light pours through the opening in the dome, as if the full moon happened to appear in all her glory directly above it, although this is of course not the case. Whatever the source of said light, it vanishes nearly before it is glimpsed.

In the direction of the fine grove of white birches that lies at no great distance from the temple comes the sound of raucous merrymaking; laughter, shouts, songs, the blaring of pipes, and the booming of drums. The sound grows louder. By the graceful swaying of the birches, it may be deduced that a party of revelers approaches.

Posted: **Tue Dec 29, 2020 3:58 pm**

“Be careful what thou sayest,” warns Lepus, peering ahead as he tries to make out the approaching revellers. “If it be the goddess who approaches then she may not take kindly to being called a false deity...”

Posted: **Tue Dec 29, 2020 10:34 pm**

Mindful of Lepus's warning, Eliza swallows further questioning.

Posted: **Wed Dec 30, 2020 3:18 am**

"Yes, let us be respectful," says Henry, turning to greet the approaching revelers.

Posted: **Wed Dec 30, 2020 10:36 am**

The revelers prove to be a ill-dressed lot, as judged from a distance. The men appear to be naked from the waist up, and wear only what appear to be thick woolen breeches below. The women are arrayed in a variety of gossamer veils of pastel shade, wrapped about them in such manner as to allow the free movement of their limbs. This evidenced by the wild dancing in which all engage, leaping to and fro with great abandon. Oft the men chase after the women, who scurry away with shrieks that speak more of delight than fear, these hunts ending with successful captures, followed by shameless embraces. There is much drinking from wineskins and devouring of ripe fruit, and almost as much spilling of same.

As they draw nearer, some of the revelers make welcoming gestures to the adventurers, as if inviting them to join them.

Posted: **Wed Dec 30, 2020 4:14 pm**

Studying the approaching party, Lepus grunts in recognition.

“Nymphs and Satyrs, yesno? We should be careful, lest we be carried away to cavort forever. But, to stand still and staid will get us nowhere, so let us show willing for the nonce.”

Grinning and gurning, he fishes for his tin whistle. Once located he plays along to the revellers’ music, scampering and capering in time.

Posted: **Wed Dec 30, 2020 10:01 pm**

Eliza tries to imitate the women's dancing, to the extent that her gown does not hamper her.

Posted: **Thu Dec 31, 2020 5:48 am**

Henry dances as well, being careful not to lose himself in the music. He knows full well its power. His wife's singing is enough to overwhelm him without being supernatural in any way.

Posted: **Thu Dec 31, 2020 9:39 am**

Spoiler:

The revelers welcome the three new arrivals into the dance, clapping their hands in time to a wild rhythm. The adventurers manage to keep step, even as the music grows more and more frenzied. The group slowly, with many changes in direction, makes its way under the dome of the temple. There, although it would hardly seem possible, the dancers become even more excited. Spittle runs from their mouths, and their cries are more like those of animals than of persons. Many rend their garments, and those of others. Wine and fruit spills upon the floor of the temple and is stomped upon by bare feet, careless of where they step. Some fall to the ground, others trip over them, and both rise again, heedless of injury. At the height of this mania, the interior of the temple suddenly grows dim, as if heavy clouds have passed overhead, although the night has been exceptionally clear thus far. As if this were a signal, the dancers cease their movements and their cries, standing still and raising their arms high in supplication. They whisper together, almost as one voice.

"The sacrifice. The sacrifice."

Posted: **Thu Dec 31, 2020 4:40 pm**

Lepus steps in front of his friends.

"What be thy sacrifice?" he chants.

Posted: **Thu Dec 31, 2020 9:41 pm**

Eliza pauses in the dance, unsure what to do next, and wary of the word sacrifice.

Posted: **Fri Jan 01, 2021 4:55 am**

Henry watches warily, in case the revelers decide to try to sacrifice them.

Posted: **Fri Jan 01, 2021 9:52 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Lepus steps in front of his friends.

"What be thy sacrifice?" he chants.

As the closest one to the crowd of revelers, Lepus is he who draws their attention. They approach, eyes glaring and mouths wide open, their hands clutching at him.

Spoiler:

In a frenzy of madness, they claw at the flesh of their intended victim with nails and teeth, more like predatory animals than rational souls. Blood flows from multiple wounds in the body of the hedge wizard, and his clothing is ripped in many places.

Simultaneously with attack, a figure emerges, apparently hidden behind one of the temple's columns until the moment. It is that of the hermit.

"Shall I regain what is mine," he says, barely audible over the shrieks of the lunatics, "or shall Cotytto taste of mortal flesh tonight?"

Posted: **Fri Jan 01, 2021 5:30 pm**

Ravaged and bleeding, Lepus staggers back from the attack.

“Cotytto! Would thou have this poor fool as a sacrifice, or the immortal flesh of a consort of the gods?” he yells.

Posted: **Fri Jan 01, 2021 8:46 pm**

"She is not yours!" says Henry, drawing his pistol while Ivan readies his sword.

Posted: **Fri Jan 01, 2021 10:49 pm**

Eliza punches and claws at the revellers, trying to drive them away from Lepus. "If you would call me yours," she snarls to the hermit, "Do not hide behind tricks and beings of myth. Come and claim me by your own hand, if you dare."

Posted: **Sat Jan 02, 2021 9:06 am**

Driven back as much by the cry of their intended victim as by the attacks of his defenders, the mob of worshippers withdraws from the center of the temple, where they await events to come, many licking the blood from their fingers.

Spoiler:

A chill wind blasts through the temple, seeming to come from all directions at once, stirring leaves from autumns past throughout the structure, whipping at the sheer veils of the female revelers, and seeming to pull at the very marrow in one's bones. False moonbeam once more pours forth from the opening of the dome, drawing the hermit to it as moth to candle. Then, as if he be no more than a spark driven from wood by the levitating power of flame, the selfsame figure is drawn up into the pale ivory light, shimmers and melts away, as the imitative lunar ray itself fades into darkness. Those gathered to prey homage to the mistress of wildness collapse into a deep slumber, as innocent as that of a babe.

Posted: **Sat Jan 02, 2021 10:22 am**

Eliza seems rather taken aback at this turn of events. "I suppose that is that."

Posted: **Sat Jan 02, 2021 6:14 pm**

"Aye, 'tis how it appears," says Lepus. Breathing heavily, he leans against a pillar for support.

"Just deserts for a scoundrel who has caused such pain and misery, yesno? Shall leave yonder revellers to their slumber? Mayhap the dreams will abate now the goddess is fed."

He winces in pain.

"On the morrow, the lord of the manor should be persuaded to tear down this folly and mayhap raise a temple in honour of the dawn in it's stead."

Posted: **Sat Jan 02, 2021 7:29 pm**

"Yes, that ended about as well as we could have hoped," says Henry. "Let me see to your injuries."

Posted: **Sat Jan 02, 2021 9:42 pm**

"And once more I must thank you for risking yourself in my defence," adds Eliza. She watches her father's efforts with curiosity.

Posted: **Mon Jan 04, 2021 3:46 pm**

"Pssht! 'twas what any decent folk would do; old Lepus has never cared for slavery in any form," replies the wanderer as he submits to Henry's ministrations. "'tis a wonder, is it not, that yon family has survived for so long, considering the dangers that lurk in the Highdark estate!"

Posted: **Tue Jan 05, 2021 3:28 am**

"It is a wonder indeed," says Henry. "Perhaps some places, like this one, are centres of supernatural activity. It may have something to do with ley lines, though I'm hardly an expert on those. There may be some connection to magnetic phenomena, however. Remember the meteorite."

Posted: **Thu Jan 07, 2021 8:40 am**

During this discussion of natural and unnatural philosophy, the sleeping revelers awaken, glancing about in apparent confusion.

Spoiler:

There is an octad of them, evenly divided between the sexes. The object of their frenzied veneration, it seems, no longer about, they stand and direct their gaze at the adventurers with many a gesture of appeal, as if expecting those present to serve as governors.

Posted: **Thu Jan 07, 2021 4:38 pm**

Having almost been torn to shreds by these people mere moments ago, Lepus holds his tongue. He steps back, studying them warily: are they really fauns and dryads as he first suspected, or merely human beings like himself?

Posted: **Thu Jan 07, 2021 11:20 pm**

Eliza saw them attack Lepus too, and their confusion stokes her anger. "What?" she demands simply and harshly.

Posted: **Fri Jan 08, 2021 4:11 am**

"You are free now," Henry says to the former revelers. "Do you understand what it means to be free? Would you like me to explain it?"

Posted: **Fri Jan 08, 2021 9:23 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Having almost been torn to shreds by these people mere moments ago, Lepus holds his tongue. He steps back, studying them warily: are they really fauns and dryads as he first suspected, or merely human beings like himself?

Close examination reveals that they are, in physical form at least, ordinary women and men, albeit arrayed in archaic and scandalous fashion.

Posted: **Fri Jan 08, 2021 9:28 am**

SunlessNick wrote: Eliza saw them attack Lepus too, and their confusion stokes her anger. "What?" she demands simply and harshly.

Thus addressed in so strong a manner, they fall to their knees in abject fashion before Eliza, the women somewhat closer to her than the men. The scene might be one inscribed upon an antique urn, the women raising their arms high, the men lowering their heads to the ground.

Posted: **Fri Jan 08, 2021 9:29 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: "You are free now," Henry says to the former revelers. "Do you understand what it means to be free? Would you like me to explain it?"

This statement brings only many a confused look from those assembled.

Posted: **Fri Jan 08, 2021 3:39 pm**

“From whence did thee come?” Lepus asks the supplicants. “Where be thy homes?”

The wanderer asks this in several languages (or as best an approximation of such as he can manage), unsure if those cringing before them can speak English.

Posted: **Fri Jan 08, 2021 11:33 pm**

Eliza's anger is quickly replaced with confusion and some embarassment (perhaps an observer might conclude she has in some spiritual wise inherited the volatile humours of Miss Ravenscroft).

"There is no need to bow," she says.

Posted: **Sat Jan 09, 2021 4:31 am**

"Let me explain the concept of freedom to you," says Henry. "Freedom is the natural state of man. It is only when other men act that men can lose their freedom. Freedom is the right to do as you please, within reason. Nobody is completely free, but we are still largely so. There are laws that must be obeyed. Do not murder and do not steal are two examples. We have a king, King George, who rules this land. We have a Parliament, which makes laws. Such things are necessary to ensure that we live in peace. But within those constraints, it is our own choice what we do. What is it that you wish?"

Posted: **Sat Jan 09, 2021 11:01 am**

jp1885 wrote:
“From whence did thee come?” Lepus asks the supplicants. “Where be thy homes?”

The wanderer asks this in several languages (or as best an approximation of such as he can manage), unsure if those cringing before them can speak English.

There is much confusion among the eight. After some whispering amongst themselves, one of the women points to herself, then the others, and says "Hellas. Attike. Athenai."

Posted: **Sat Jan 09, 2021 11:07 am**

SunlessNick wrote: Eliza's anger is quickly replaced with confusion and some embarassment (perhaps an observer might conclude she has in some spiritual wise inherited the volatile humours of Miss Ravenscroft).

"There is no need to bow," she says.

The same woman who spoke to Lepus now addresses her attention to Eliza. "Athene Pallas!"

This statement causes the men to avert their eyes, and the women to sing in chorus.

Posted: **Sat Jan 09, 2021 11:11 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: "Let me explain the concept of freedom to you," says Henry. "Freedom is the natural state of man. It is only when other men act that men can lose their freedom. Freedom is the right to do as you please, within reason. Nobody is completely free, but we are still largely so. There are laws that must be obeyed. Do not murder and do not steal are two examples. We have a king, King George, who rules this land. We have a Parliament, which makes laws. Such things are necessary to ensure that we live in peace. But within those constraints, it is our own choice what we do. What is it that you wish?"

This fine speech evidently baffles the listeners. However, the same woman who spoke to the others, who seems to have picked up a few words of the King's Tongue in some unknown manner, appears to have understood at least a little of it.

"Demokratia?" She points at Eliza. "Anassa! Basileia!"

Posted: **Sat Jan 09, 2021 4:52 pm**

Lepus’ mottled brow creases; it’s been some years since his wandering took him to the Hellenic lands.

“It be as if their goddess has transported them from Ancient Greece, yesno? Eliza, methinks they hold you in some high regard, as if thee be a deity incarnate.”

“Old Lepus thinks it be a poor idea to ship them back to their own land; it be much changed under the Ottomans.”

Posted: **Sat Jan 09, 2021 9:25 pm**

"They must be from ancient Greece, Athens in particular," says Henry. "That is the cradle of democracy. They may think that Eliza is a goddess, perhaps even Athena herself. I have studied some ancient languages, including the form of Greek that would have been used in Old Athens. The tongue is used on the newly acquired Rosetta Stone and may eventually allow us to translate ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics." He addresses the people in that language to see if they understand it.

Posted: **Sat Jan 09, 2021 10:09 pm**

jp1885 wrote:“It be as if their goddess has transported them from Ancient Greece, yesno? Eliza, methinks they hold you in some high regard, as if thee be a deity incarnate.”

"Harold characterised me as Athena for is portrait," says Eliza. "If this is what they believe, perhaps I can reassure them, yesno?" She lowers herself to more of an eye level with the revelers, and offers a warm smile. "The scholar you spoke with before? He must know their tongue."

Posted: **Sun Jan 10, 2021 11:35 am**

Pleased to find someone who can communicate with them in a civilized manner, rather than in the barbaric tongue of this cold and misty land, the eight chatter excitedly. Cautioned to speak more slowly and clearly, and, if possible, one at a time, they manage, at last, to communicate something of their tale. In brief, while celebrating the Eleusinian Mysteries, this group of worshippers found themselves transported to this place, and driven into a sacrificial frenzy. They attribute this to the divine intervention of Athena Parthenos (indicating Eliza), judging that the patron goddess of their city-state has been incarnated into the form of a warrior maiden of imposing size and manner. Hoping that they have not offended the goddess, they await her judgment as to what should become of them.

Posted: **Sun Jan 10, 2021 8:51 pm**

Henry translates between English and Ancient Greek to explain to his friends about the Greeks. "The ideal thing to do would be to send them back to their own time and place," says Henry, "but I've no idea how to do it. It may one day be possible to invent a machine that would allow travel in time. Imagine being able to travel to the past and witness key moments in history! Or to the future, to see what wonders exist then and how our descendants are getting on! Alas, it would be the work of a lifetime, perhaps several lifetimes, to invent such a thing. Perhaps, since they arrived by supernatural means, they could return home by supernatural means."

Posted: **Sun Jan 10, 2021 9:14 pm**

Lepus strokes his beard, deep in thought.

“I be wary of dealing too much with the old gods, but mayhap it could be done. Otherwise they will have to learn to live as modern folk in England, yesno? Perchance they could learn alongside Eliza.”

Posted: **Sun Jan 10, 2021 10:30 pm**

When Dr North relates what the worshippers have said, Eliza asks "Would it be better to disabuse them of their belief about me, or play to it? At least we can say I require no sacrifice from them. Especially that of my friend and saviour. But if this be their origin, what do we do with them? It cannot be right for me to possess slaves of my own, whoever they think me to be."

Posted: **Sun Jan 10, 2021 11:42 pm**

"You are correct," says Henry. "You understand better than anyone here what is wrong with slavery. I would be honest with them, but this is a decision that is yours to make. Whatever you wish to say to them, I shall translate into their tongue. As to what to do with them, we must try to find a way to return them to their own time and place. It will not be easy, but if they could be brought here, there must a way to send them back. In the meantime, and if we cannot find a way to send them home in the longer term, I can educate them. They have a solid foundation to their education already, it seems."

Posted: **Mon Jan 11, 2021 12:20 am**

"I would not have them see me the way I was made to see him. Father, please tell them I am no goddess and merit no worship from them."

Posted: **Mon Jan 11, 2021 1:27 am**

Henry faithfully translates Eliza's statement to the Greeks.

Posted: **Mon Jan 11, 2021 10:34 am**

There is much excited chatter amongst the Greeks. Timidly approaching Eliza, one of the men inquires Be thou sorceress then, or Amazon? I confess, none such as thee have we known to exist, even amongst the barbarians.

Posted: **Mon Jan 11, 2021 11:33 am**

Happy that they have a means of communication in Henry, Lepus suggests that the good doctor explain the predicament to the Greeks. Perhaps they'd like to settle in this new land and time? Perhaps the antiquarian guest might like to assist in their rehabilitation?

If they wish to return to whence they came, then have they any ideas how this could be achieved?

Posted: **Mon Jan 11, 2021 9:00 pm**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:There is much excited chatter amongst the Greeks. Timidly approaching Eliza, one of the men inquires Be thou sorceress then, or Amazon? I confess, none such as thee have we known to exist, even amongst the barbarians.

Eliza's face falls slightly. "I do not know that there are any such as me. I was made by learning, not magic. A pair of girls call me an ogre. I do not think that is what I am either, but I like the sound of the word, and you may call me such too if it pleases you."

Posted: **Tue Jan 12, 2021 5:32 am**

Henry translates for Eliza and Lepus and asks the Greeks whether they would like to remain in this time and place, in which case he can teach them what they need to know, or if they would rather he and his friends try to find a way to send them home.

Posted: **Tue Jan 12, 2021 9:46 am**

-- Alas! This wild and barbaric land is far too chill for such as us. Be this the fabled, icy realm of Hyperborea, where the giants do dwell? --

The presence of Eliza would seem to lead credence to this hypothesis.

Several of the group seem to be shivering, which may have as much to do with the lightness of their attire as with the climate.

Posted: **Tue Jan 12, 2021 5:21 pm**

“Let us get these shivering wrenches inside, yesno?” suggests Lepus.

Posted: **Tue Jan 12, 2021 10:33 pm**

"Of course," Eliza agrees.

Posted: **Wed Jan 13, 2021 3:21 am**

"Yes, let us get them indoors," says Henry. He speaks to them in Greek. "We will first bring you inside where it is warmer, and then we will try to find a way to return you to your home. This land is England, on a large island in the north that is called Great Britain. The Romans called it Britannia. There is at least one giant living around here. We met him recently."

Posted: **Wed Jan 13, 2021 10:32 am**

The adventurers manage to bring the shivering group within the fire-warmed interiors of Highdark Hall, where they stare in amazement at everything around them.

-- Surely this is the palace of a king! --

Rooms are found for them, given the many empty guest rooms in the manor home. Arrangements will have to be made for supplying their victuals. Their presence creates a dilemma. Shall they be kept in hiding, risking the chance of discovery, or shall they be introduced to the Altumbers et alia in some manner?

Posted: **Thu Jan 14, 2021 3:54 am**

"This is the manor of a noble lord, Lord Highdark," Henry tells the visitors. "I too am a lord, the Earl of Dunwich. I have a castle in the east. The King's palaces are even more luxurious. I had the pleasure of visiting him in one of his palaces on at least one occasion." He confers with his friends. "I think we should introduce them to His Lordship, explaining that they are stranded travelers from Greece. I can translate for them."

Posted: **Thu Jan 14, 2021 5:43 am**

"I do not think we can successfully keep them secret," says Eliza.

Posted: **Thu Jan 14, 2021 4:01 pm**

“Aye, the truth will out one way or t’other,” Lepus concurs.

Posted: **Thu Jan 21, 2021 9:52 am**

The Altumbers, associates, and servants are struck by the eccentric appearance of the peculiar folk, but the code of hospitality runs strong at Highdark Hall, and they are admitted, fed well (although their behavior at table leaves something to be desired) and given places to refresh themselves and beds to rest their tried bodies. Upon the morrow, their behavior starts to be of concern to the Lord and Lady. It seems that many have taken the opportunity to bathe, sans clothing, in the worried stream, and to make free with comestibles from the garden, fowl from the chicken pens, and even milk directly from the milch cows' udders.

"The ways of foreigners are not our own, to be sure," Lord Highdark observes, "but there is a limit to what I am able to abide. Cannot these -- these -- people find accommodation elsewhere, or refine their manner?"

Posted: **Thu Jan 21, 2021 4:13 pm**

Aware of the consternation the visitors are calling, Lepus suggests some research into ways of getting them home. Perhaps dredging his arcane knowledge will bring something up, or perhaps some mouldering tome in the library points to a way. Failing that, maybe the twisted and faerie-addled mind of the former attic-occupant might know of a method?

Posted: **Thu Jan 21, 2021 9:59 pm**

"The scholar with whom you spoke whilst Harold was painting me may have some insight also. At least he will be someone else they can speak with."

Play@YSDC

Book the Second, Chapter the Tenth: An Introduction to Soci

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