Play@YSDC

Posted: **Sun Mar 05, 2023 10:42 pm**

Main Road, Strathmorn, Inverness-shire
Friday 20 March 1931. 10.15am

It took about 30 minutes of tramping through the woods until they found a path that lead back to the village. The church bell tolled quarter past the hours as the strolled back in the direction of the the inn, and the wind blew in the first drops of an impending rain shower.

Posted: **Sun Mar 05, 2023 11:08 pm**

Posted: **Sun Mar 05, 2023 11:53 pm**

Posted: **Mon Mar 06, 2023 1:14 am**

Posted: **Mon Mar 06, 2023 6:33 am**

"It's a wee bit early for lunch," says Bonnie. "Maybe we should talk to the Reverend, though he'll be none too happy to see us - me in particular - especially if we let him know we went into the manor."

Posted: **Mon Mar 06, 2023 7:26 am**

" That aounds like a good idea, we can ahow him this journal, then i would like to
Visit the library so i can try and corroborate any facts in this accursed tome. We ahould maybe contact Mr Price ans give hum a wee update on the investigation." DrDouglas chips in. Thinking to himself he must make a quick copy of the main points in the journal and of that damndable phrase, should anything happen to the original.

Posted: **Mon Mar 06, 2023 10:05 am**

"I wonder, I'm not saying that's a bad idea. But if we tell the minister there's a collection of remains in that manor, of who knows how many people, he'll want to oversee their Christian burial at least."

"And the constable, and his superiors, will be notified and will investigate to try to find who has been disturbing the dead. Grievously disturbing the dead."

"So it's like lighting the touch paper on a firework, isn't it, eh?"

Posted: **Mon Mar 06, 2023 11:51 pm**

Posted: **Tue Mar 07, 2023 5:41 am**

"Aye, that's true," says Bonnie, "but does anyone have a better idea?"

Posted: **Wed Mar 08, 2023 8:49 am**

"Only question probably is what to do before we speak to the minister, eh?"

"I do have one thought. Did all those bones come from the McMorn family crypt? Could any be more recent, and if so, where did they come from?"

"Doc, any thoughts on whether any of the bones were, ah, a bit younger than one hundred years old?"

Posted: **Wed Mar 08, 2023 9:47 am**

Posted: **Fri Mar 10, 2023 7:27 am**

Posted: **Sat Mar 11, 2023 5:28 am**

Posted: **Sat Mar 11, 2023 6:10 am**

Spoiler:

Posted: **Sat Mar 11, 2023 2:09 pm**

They found Reverend McCallan at the kirk, tidying up after a prayer meeting. They had passed a number of his parishioners on their way to the kirk who had stared at them as they passed, in the way that village people were wont to do when strangers were in their midst.

The Reverend looked up as they entered, a slight frown crossing his face as he spotted Bonnie. ”How may I help ye today?” he asked, somewhat guardedly.

Posted: **Sun Mar 12, 2023 12:58 am**

"First, Reverend, I'd like to apologize for what I said when I was here before," says Bonnie. "I shouldna have made insinuations like that."

Posted: **Sun Mar 12, 2023 10:31 am**

Ascot remains silent, confident that Miss Mackenzie will bury herself shortly with some conversational disaster.

Posted: **Sun Mar 12, 2023 2:18 pm**

”Aye, well, no good will come of such aspersions,” said the Reverend. He nodded to draw a line under that part of the conversation, then said, ”So, how can I help you?”

Posted: **Sun Mar 12, 2023 10:38 pm**

"We did something else that you're not going to like," says Bonnie, "so ye may as well hear it from me, seeing as ye already dislike me, and I dinna want ye to hold it against my friends. It's entirely my fault. We went to the manor, and we found something we think ye should ken aboot."

Posted: **Mon Mar 13, 2023 12:51 am**

”Whit is wrang wit ye’s?” exploded Reverend McCallan, clearly exasperated enough by Bonnie’s confession that his more urbane demeanour slipped away. ”I told ye not to go there lest ye stir up the devil and yet ye’re here again, telling me that ye’ve done just that! Why for pity’s sake, why did ye de that?”

Posted: **Mon Mar 13, 2023 1:08 am**

"We were recruited to do a job," says Bonnie, "to investigate the murder and get to the bottom of it, to find the truth, whatever it may be. We couldn't leave any stone unturned in our investigation."

Posted: **Mon Mar 13, 2023 1:17 am**

”That’s as it may,” snapped Reverend McCallan, ”But if ye bring the devil doon on this village, ye’ll have me tae answer tae!”

Posted: **Mon Mar 13, 2023 2:14 am**

"Let us hope the devil has the sense to stay away," says Bonnie. "We werena the first ones there, as it turns oot. Someone was there before us - recently. We found the footprints."

Posted: **Mon Mar 13, 2023 5:00 pm**

The Reverend studied Bonnie for a moment. ”Whose footprints?” he asked.

Posted: **Mon Mar 13, 2023 9:23 pm**

"We canna say for certain," says Bonnie, "but I have my suspicions. I believe Alex McMorn has a living heir, the same man who also recently read the papers ye told us about in the library at Inverness and most likely thus discovered his own ancestry. He would most likely be a descendant of Moira, who married a merchant from Aberdeen. When I asked at the library who else had read the papers, I was told it was Dr. McBride. He got very uncomfortable about the subject of the library, the papers, Moira, and the possibility that she had descendants, though we didna explicity tell him what we had discovered, merely asked innocent questions about his research."

Posted: **Tue Mar 14, 2023 7:47 pm**

”More aspersions?!” said the Reverend. ”Ye’ll get intae serious bother if ye go about talking about people like that.”

He paused then glanced about. ”How, err, reliable might this information be?” he asked.

Posted: **Wed Mar 15, 2023 4:51 am**

"I trust the information from the library, both in the papers and from the librarian as to who read them last," says Bonnie. "I also trust my perceptions about Dr. McBride's reaction to merely asking if Moira could have living descendants and if he knew the name of the merchant she had married. I didn't know if she did or not until I saw how he responded. He wouldna have reacted that way if he wasna personally attached, and it also would explain his interest in the papers."

Posted: **Wed Mar 15, 2023 9:13 am**

Reverend MacCallan sighed deeply. He looked up at the the church altar. ”I will pray for all involved,” he said.

Posted: **Wed Mar 15, 2023 2:25 pm**

Ascot clears his throat. "On That topic, Reverend, there are ... Other needs for your services in that terrible manor."

Ascot looks at the others to see if he should keep going.

Posted: **Wed Mar 15, 2023 2:37 pm**

Snapper wrote: ↑Wed Mar 15, 2023 2:25 pm

Ascot clears his throat. "On That topic, Reverend, there are ... Other needs for your services in that terrible manor."

Ascot looks at the others to see if he should keep going.

Father Ó Shaban gave a nod of approvement for the hunter to continue, just declaring something as an starting point.

"Yes, zere is a set of most displeasurable rarities of which ze men of cloz have to take care of in here. It seems zere was or is a desecrator of bodies in ze old Manor."

Posted: **Wed Mar 15, 2023 7:42 pm**

Dr Douglas chips in, " Reverand we also stumbled across a journal which outlines what the Manorrls previous encumbent was upto and hints that possibky people in the village were aware. I'm afraid that something more tamgible than your devil may be at work."

Posted: **Thu Mar 16, 2023 5:10 am**

"Aye," says Bonnie. "There are some old human remains that could use a proper burial - or reburial. Most of them appear to have been taken from the crypt."

Posted: **Thu Mar 16, 2023 7:17 am**

Reverend MacCallan looked shocked. ”By all that’s holy…” he whispered, staring at them in disbelief.

He took a deep breath, closed his eyes and crossed himself. Opening his eyes again, he said, ”We must make sure the bodies are interred but first, have you informed the Police?”

Posted: **Thu Mar 16, 2023 9:57 am**

"To be honest, Reverend, we were so shocked, our first thought was to come to you. Forgive us if we've done the wrong thing. We're all probably not thinking too clearly just now. Even during the War, when we could we treated all of the dead with respect."

Posted: **Fri Mar 17, 2023 12:45 am**

”Very well,” replied Reverend MacCallan. ”The first thing tae dae is to call the police. The bodies will need a proper Christian burial but the Police will want tae see them first. We can use my phone in the Presbytery.”

He bowed to the altar and lead the way from the Kirk to the manse next door. As they walked down the garden path, the sound of an engine could be heard. The Reverend stopped and craned his neck, looking towards the main road.

”That sounds like Constable Leslie,” he said, turning and making his way past the others as he returned to the main road. He raised his hand to attract the driver’s attention and they say a police car coast to a halt at the end of the path. Looking out of the window was the same grim-faced Constable who they had earlier seen in the woods.

He leaned over and wound down the window to speak. ”Reverend MacCallan, gentlemen, miss,” he said. ”Whit seems tae be the trouble?”

Posted: **Fri Mar 17, 2023 4:13 am**

"Good morning, Constable," says Bonnie. "We saw some things when we were at the manor, and we wanted to tell the Reverend first, but he advised us to tell you."

Posted: **Fri Mar 17, 2023 12:51 pm**

Constable Leslie frowned. ”Witholding information is a serious offence,” he said formally.

”Whit was it ye foond?”

Posted: **Fri Mar 17, 2023 3:10 pm**

"Aside from a hoard of old bones and descrated coffins we stumbled upon a corpse. Been dead for quite a few years, judging by the condition of the body. No signs of foul play mind you. We didn't want withhold any thing from you Constable but seeing that the poor man has been dead of seemingly natural causes and no one had found them, we though only to approach the good Reverand Macallan here for some spiritual guidance and hopefully perform some form of lasr rites so the deceaseds soul may find some rest. The police station was our next port of call." Dr Douglas explains sincerely to the Constable.

Posted: **Sat Mar 18, 2023 6:05 am**

"Aye, just so," says Bonnie. "We're nae withholding information. We're sharing it with ye now."

Posted: **Sat Mar 18, 2023 11:04 am**

”Ye should have telt me earlier, Miss,” said Constable Leslie. ”When ye were stood by the hoose.”

He switched off his engine and got out of the car. ”I think ye need to show us whit ye’ve foond,” he said. ”But first…” He moved around to the rear of his car and opened the boot. ”Given what ye’ve said, I think it will be safer for everyone if you place your weapons in here for safekeeping, before we go any further.”

Posted: **Sat Mar 18, 2023 11:59 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Sat Mar 18, 2023 11:04 am ”Ye should have telt me earlier, Miss,” said Constable Leslie. ”When ye were stood by the hoose.”

He switched off his engine and got out of the car. ”I think ye need to show us whit ye’ve foond,” he said. ”But first…” He moved around to the rear of his car and opened the boot. ”Given what ye’ve said, I think it will be safer for everyone if you place your weapons in here for safekeeping, before we go any further.”

Father Ó Shaban seemed quite worried at the words of the Constable, and he was a really not in the will to go inside no place in this town without protection, so he spoke trying to be as persuasive

"Forrgive me, mister Constable, but I am a very old man, and I am quite tired. I don't believe we all ze present require to present zemselves at ze manor, I reccomend for my and my helper Hamish to stay and rest."

Posted: **Sat Mar 18, 2023 5:28 pm**

Bonnie puts her gun case with its weapons in the boot of the car.

Posted: **Sun Mar 19, 2023 12:22 am**

Dr Douglas places Bonnies shotgun in the trunk. Keeping the small knife he found in the Manor concealed. Don't like the idea of being in that place unarmed he thinks.

Posted: **Sun Mar 19, 2023 7:44 am**

Ascot sighs. "Constable, I will of course do as you ask. However, I am a professional big game hunter, and I'm telling you there are quite recent tracks of some big wild animal up at that manor. Something whose ancestors were brought here from Africa by the last owner of that manor a century ago. Some animal who has killed a sheep and brought it back to the manor to eat. We saw the sheep, freshly dead in a tree."

"And Dr Douglas here has seen the, ah, bones in the manor, gnawed, and can agree an animal did that."

"Now, if you disarm us and we go back to the manor, you better be ready to defend us all because you're going to be responsible for us."

"Finally, this revolver was issued to me when I was commissioned during the War. Dr Douglas is of course a gentleman. Father Shaban is a member of the clergy. And Miss Mackenzie is a gentle-woman and the daughter of a gentleman. I would ask that you remember with whom you are dealing."

With that, Ascot hands over his ironmongery.

OOC: Any chance Ascot can make a Persuade roll?

Posted: **Sun Mar 19, 2023 12:16 pm**

The party could see Ascot’s words had touched Constable Leslie… …

Posted: **Mon Mar 20, 2023 8:27 am**

OOC: Hard success! If it will help, Ascot can spend 3 Luck and make it an extreme success.

Posted: **Tue Mar 21, 2023 12:29 am**

Ascot couldn’t tell what the look was that passed over Constable Leslie’s face, but the policemen said, ”Nae one will interfere with them here.” He leaned into the boot himself and unlocked a wooden box from which he withdrew a service revolver of his own. He closed and locked the boot and turned to face the group.

”If ye wish tae rest, Father, then please remain at the hotel until we return. I may ha’ some questions for ye later,” he said. ”As fae the rest of ye’s let’s go.”

Leslie lead them back through the trees and up to the Manor House. He stopped at the tree line and looked over to the others. ”Right, lead on. Ye can show me whit ye’ve foond.”

Posted: **Tue Mar 21, 2023 3:27 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Tue Mar 21, 2023 12:29 am
No, it’s fine. Save your luck for when you might need it…

Ascot couldn’t tell what the look was that passed over Constable Leslie’s face, but the policemen said, ”Nae one will interfere with them here.” He leaned into the boot himself and unlocked a wooden box from which he withdrew a service revolver of his own. He closed and locked the boot and turned to face the group.

”If ye wish tae rest, Father, then please remain at the hotel until we return. I may ha’ some questions for ye later,” he said. ”As fae the rest of ye’s let’s go.”

Leslie lead them back through the trees and up to the Manor House. He stopped at the tree line and looked over to the others. ”Right, lead on. Ye can show me whit ye’ve foond.”

Father Ó Shaban showed some gratefullness to the Constable while stopping Hamish from leaving strangely.
Presuming the Reverend wasn't going to go with the [/b]Constable[/b], he directed himself to talk to him.

"Will you be too occupied forr some conversation while ze ozers investigate ze bodies? I would appreciate if you could tell me of ze manor's history. I have heard some resumes already, but I am sure zere is quite a longer story to tell, given ze time. We can do it over some nice tea, I will pay for it."

The Father was patient while trying to Persuade the priest.

Posted: **Tue Mar 21, 2023 4:42 am**

"Let's go to the crypt first," says Bonnie. "That's where the bodies used to be."

Posted: **Tue Mar 21, 2023 9:29 am**

Ascot gives the others an 'I tried' shrug.

Posted: **Wed Mar 22, 2023 2:14 am**

Dr Douglas places his hand on Ascots shoulder, giving him look as if saying 'Good effort". " I agree, lets show him the desecration and the footprints before heading upstairs to where that devil rests."

Posted: **Thu Mar 23, 2023 12:41 am**

Posted: **Thu Mar 23, 2023 2:20 am**

" Constable as you can see by the amount of dust lying about this is exactly how we found them and they have been this way fer quite some time".

Posted: **Thu Mar 23, 2023 4:34 am**

"Aye, I touched nothing," says Bonnie.

Posted: **Thu Mar 23, 2023 4:04 pm**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Thu Mar 23, 2023 12:41 am
”I wouldnae here of ye paying for tea,” said Reverend MacCallan. ”Come wi’ me and I’ll have my housekeeper put the kettle on.”

He lead the way back to his home and invited Father Ó Shaban to take a seat in his study, banking the coals in the fire to bring a bit more warmth to the room. ”Yer pals seem to ha done some digging intae the history of the manor already,” he said. ”But I’ll gi’ ye a potted history of the place. At the time in question, the manor was owned by Gordon MacMorn, a kind, benevolent, Christian man. He and his son, Alexander, regularly attended the kirk and all was well. As he grew up, however, young Alex got the wanderlust and took himself off tae Africa, returning months later a changed man. He nivvor once stepped foot in the kirk once he returned and he kept strange company; a native fellow and a sailor that he’d met on his travels. It wasn’t long afore Gordon McMorn was taken ill and died and frae that moment on, Alex became the Lord of the manor, living in that big old hoose wi’ his strange companions.”

”It didnae take long frae the rumours started and there were strange comings and goings at the hoose. Then, one day, Alex and his companions vanished and were seen nae mair. Not frae that day til this. Naturally, everyone aroondaboots thinks that the place is haunted so everyone hae given it a wide berth. We’ll, until ye and yer pals, that is…”

Constable Leslie took the lead up to the house but once there, bid the others show him what they had found. He looked on at the crypt disapprovingly and appeared thoroughly vexed at the state of the coffins in the house itself.

Eventually he said, ”Is this how ye found it, or have ye moved anything?”

Spoiler:

Posted: **Thu Mar 23, 2023 11:48 pm**

"We are most definitely not in the habit of disturbing people's final rest."

"By the way, there's a dead sheep in a tree nearby too."

Posted: **Sat Mar 25, 2023 1:23 am**

Posted: **Sat Mar 25, 2023 1:29 am**

OOC: Animal bones? Weren't they human?

Posted: **Sat Mar 25, 2023 1:35 am**

"Come and see the sheep in the tree. Something has stored it there for later."

Posted: **Sat Mar 25, 2023 4:55 am**

"Aye, the sheep, if it's still there," says Bonnie. "If the beastie didna come back for it."

Posted: **Sat Mar 25, 2023 5:04 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Sat Mar 25, 2023 1:23 am
”It seems so far-fetched as tae be unlikely, Father,” replied Reverend MacCallan. ”Surely any creature brought back from Africa by Alex McMorn must be long gone. Even if it had hae bairns, we’d surely hae noticed more sheep goin’ missin’? They’d hae to eat after all.”

Constable Leslie studied the animal bones for a long while before grudgingly conceding that they must have been there for some time. ”Whit else ha’ ye found?” he asked.

Posted: **Mon Mar 27, 2023 12:03 am**

Posted: **Mon Mar 27, 2023 12:10 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Mon Mar 27, 2023 12:03 am
Reverend MacCallan studied Father Ó Shaban for a long moment. On the one hand, what he was being told sounded like the ravings of a madman; on the other hand, a man had died and a sheep had been killed so such caution wasn’t unwise. ”I’ll be going about the village this afternoon, so I’ll tell the villagers to take care. Does that satisfy ye?” he said.

OOC: Sorry, yes, not animal bones. I was thinking of the ones in the stables.

Constable Leslie followed them out to the tree where the carcass of the sheep was still caught up. ”I’ve seen this before in Africa,” he said. ”Ye’ll get some big cats dragging their pray aff the groond, otherwise the hyenas’ll ha’ it. I’ve nivver seen it o’er here though,” He looked up in the tree then turned to look around at the treeline, as if expecting something to make an appearance… …

Posted: **Mon Mar 27, 2023 1:27 am**

"Aye, that makes sense," says Bonnie. "The tree was transplanted from Africa. The beastie, or its ancestors, must have been brought from there too. We were thinking of staking out the tree and waiting for it to return for its prey."

Posted: **Mon Mar 27, 2023 1:42 am**

Ascot looks unreasonably pleased, given the circumstances. "You've visited Africa? Where did you go? I'm originally a British Rhodesia man, myself."

Posted: **Wed Mar 29, 2023 12:40 am**

Posted: **Wed Mar 29, 2023 5:19 am**

"Well, if not a cat, something else put it there," says Bonnie. "The sheep didna get there by itself."

Posted: **Wed Mar 29, 2023 6:08 am**

"Perhaps we can now show you he pare chap we also found?" Dr Douglas mentioned, nodding back to the house.

Posted: **Wed Mar 29, 2023 8:17 am**

Ascot nods in clear approval. "I enlisted in the South African Regiments after war was declared, just an honest private soldier, although my father was outraged I wasn't commissioned immediately. Later I was offered a transfer and commission in the Imperial Camel Corps. They wanted men with African bush skills, not that mine are anything to write home about. All my time was spent in East Africa and later the Middle East."

"You are right about the beast being a mystery. I cannot think of any animal that would drag coffins from one building to another. Yet clearly an animal, or more likely several animals, are involved in what's happened here. A great ape, perhaps? It makes me wonder though ... If there might also be more recent, ah, assistance provided to these animals by a man."

Posted: **Thu Mar 30, 2023 3:52 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Wed Mar 29, 2023 12:40 am
”I dae,” replied Reverend MacCallen, glancing at the clock. ”But I hae work tae dae. Ye might find an opponent at the hotel. There’s a’ways someone in there when they started serving at noon,” he said.

”All over British East Africa with the King’s Own Rifles,” replied Constable Leslie, looking around the clearing and up the tree. He peered closer then looked at them suspiciously. ”There was nae cat that put the body up there,” he declared. “For one thing, there’s nae claw marks. Ye couldnae get a cat up there wi’oot them.”

Posted: **Fri Mar 31, 2023 12:15 am**

Posted: **Fri Mar 31, 2023 4:50 am**

"It does seem more like something an animal would do than a man," says Bonnie. "Maybe it is an ape. Its ancestors could have been brought back from Africa, and apes are good at climbing trees."

Posted: **Sat Apr 01, 2023 12:05 am**

" But are there any tracks? I'd imagine a great ape would leave some sort of trace." Dr Douglas reasons, before heading off to the manor. " Let me just warn you Constable there is quite a startling statue as you enter the room. Most certainly left an impression on me."

Posted: **Sat Apr 01, 2023 12:15 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Fri Mar 31, 2023 12:15 am
Returning to the hotel and entering the bar a shade after midday, Father Ó Shaban found three old men already there, being served pints of Heavy, the local beer that would take them most of the afternoon to drink. They nodded a welcome as he entered but took more of an interest when he asked for the box of dominoes from behind the bar.

”Are ye wantin’ a game, Father?” one of them asked. “Penny a spot?” His friends stifled laughter and nudged each other.

”A man climbed the tree and pulled up this dead sheep? It sounds a wee bit far-fetched tae me,” replied Constable Leslie. He looked from the tree to the house. “Lead on,” he said to Doctor Douglas.

You can try a Know or History roll by all means.

Posted: **Sat Apr 01, 2023 11:52 am**

Posted: **Sat Apr 01, 2023 8:30 pm**

"I'm Bonnie MacKenzie," says Bonnie. She gives her address in Inverness. "We were recruited by one Harry Price to investigate the recent murder and get to the truth of it, whatever the truth may be."

Posted: **Sun Apr 02, 2023 5:27 am**

Several expressions cross Ascot's face, starting with Is that in fact a crime? and ending with gentlemen do not lie. However, he appears to wrestle his tongue under control.

What he does say is, "Constable, I do not doubt your willingness to protect us, however, can we have this conversation as we walk back to your automobile? I am well used to dealing with wild animals but I normally have a rifle in my hands."

"We have no desire to keep anything from you and will quite happily give you a full explanation of our activities, on my honour."

Posted: **Sun Apr 02, 2023 8:46 am**

I'm Dr Ruairi Douglas, and gives him his Londin address, "Although im originally frae the muckle toon Langholm. What Miss MacKenzie has said is true, we have been tasked by Mr Price to look into the more unusual aspects of these tragic events. So in a way we are on hunting trip as it were,
only more on the factual side. We were in no way going to conceal anything from you and you and yer brothers in blue would've have been our first port of call were we to find anything substantial. Also i concour with Ascot here, i don't really like the thought of standing out here with whatever may lurk in the shadows without being armed in some way."

Posted: **Mon Apr 03, 2023 12:23 am**

Posted: **Mon Apr 03, 2023 8:28 am**

Ascot produces a sturdy looking business card from his waistcoat. ("Hugo Ascot, Big Game Hunting Expeditions, Africa.") "My London address is in the card, as is my address in Salisbury, Rhodesia."

"Shall we head back to your vehicle now, Constable?"

Posted: **Wed Apr 05, 2023 1:21 pm**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Sat Apr 01, 2023 11:52 am
Rubbing his hands together briskly in the manner of sharks everywhere, the man took a seat opposite Father Ó Shaban. ”Tam Harris,” he said by way of introduction. He nodded towards his pals. ”The fat wan’s Fergus an’ the wan wi’ the jug-ears is Rab.”

He took the dominoes from the box, turned them all face down then swirled them around to mix them up. He dealt seven each and pushed the rest to one side. ”Double six starts,” he said, picking the aforementioned domino from his hand and playing it in the middle of the table…

Inside the Manor House, Constable Leslie’s lip curled disapprovingly as he studied the chinless statue but he said nothing. Upstairs, he examined the bones but it was clear that none had died even remotely recently, so while it was a police matter, the Constable said it was unlikely that he would be making an arrest anytime soon.

”I’ll hae tae report this tae the station,” he said, pulling out his notebook to jot down a few points. “And I’ll need yer names an’ addresses and whit brought ye here. The truth now, I’m no convinced ye’re a huntin’ party an’ lyin’ tae a Police officer is an offence.”

Posted: **Wed Apr 05, 2023 11:20 pm**

Posted: **Thu Apr 06, 2023 1:06 am**

Ascot is starting to look slightly aggrieved. "Constable, we have been more than cooperative. We have kept nothing from you. The worst you can say is we reported this to the wrong person, the good reverend, first. If that is a crime. And it is most certainly not our fault that people's bones and a dead body are lying about this house."

"Now, you know who we are. You know we will be staying at the local public house tonight. We are not leaving."

"However, I have no intention of answering any more of your questions until we have returned to your vehicle. If that is a crime, so be it. If you wish to arrest me, I will not resist. I will simply ask the opportunity to speak with a local solicitor, wherever he may be located."

Ascot stops talking and waits.

OOC: Are we still on the ground floor inside the manor?

Posted: **Thu Apr 06, 2023 5:16 am**

Stepping in Dr Douglas attempts to appease the Constable. " I dont find it odd at all. Mr Price has simply sent us because of our impartiality. If he had came himself he would be accused of placing a supernatural slant to all his findings while our little group; myself, a doctor; Miss MacKenzie a dilettante with a grounding in mechanics; Father O'Shaban a man of faith and our good friend Ascot here, a former military man and man of the world, all have a collective knowledge of how the natural world works. So we are here to find any natural and reasonable explanation without going into the world of fantasy. Our findings would indeed keep Mr Price and his organisation....er.....honest for want of a better word, do ya ken?"

Posted: **Thu Apr 06, 2023 5:26 am**

"Aye, just so," says Bonnie.

Posted: **Fri Apr 07, 2023 6:36 am**

Posted: **Fri Apr 07, 2023 7:37 am**

Watching the trees suspiciously, Ascot heads off down the trail without another word.

Posted: **Sat Apr 08, 2023 5:13 am**

Bonnie follows.

Posted: **Sat Apr 08, 2023 2:23 pm**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Wed Apr 05, 2023 11:20 pm
The game proceeded at a steady pace, with Tam taking the first and Father Ó Shaban taking the second. By the third game, both Fergus and Rab had joined in and the game was preceding at a fair lick, with just the sound of the dominoes and the tankards on the table surface disturbing the peace.

By the fourth game, Tam had a tall pile of pennies in front of him and a big grin on his face. As Fergus went to the bar to get a round of drinks, Tam said, ”Is it true whit I hear, Father, that ye’re here lookin’ intae the death of poor Donald McColl?”

Dominoes is an easy game to play - you’re essentially just matching the numbers until you can play off. There’s an explanation here: https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Dominoes

Constable Leslie clearly wasn’t going to be rushed. ”All in gud time, sir, all in gud time,” he said. “Now this Mr Price, whit’s his interest in all this? Seems a wee bit strange that he didnae make the effort to come hisself, de ye no think?”

A breeze stirred the leaves of the trees as he spoke.

Posted: **Sat Apr 08, 2023 4:47 pm**

Dr Douglas shivers involuntary as he watches the trees sway in the breeze as he follows the rest.

Posted: **Sun Apr 09, 2023 5:08 pm**

Posted: **Sun Apr 09, 2023 8:47 pm**

"Thank ye, Constable," says Bonnie. "We'll be round the village."

Posted: **Mon Apr 10, 2023 8:27 am**

Ascot huffs after the constable has left. "The gall of that man!"

"Well, lunch might be called for. Does the public bar run to lunch? And is there a telephone to be had in this village? I wonder if we should put a call through to Price, just to warm him that the authorities may be in touch. Not that we, or he, have committed any serious crime."

Posted: **Mon Apr 10, 2023 1:52 pm**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Sun Apr 09, 2023 5:08 pm
Tam, Fergus and Rab stared at Father Ó Shaban blankly as they tried to make sense of the words. Eventually Tam said, ”Satisfaction? Ye’re not Welsh by any chance, Father?”

Constable Leslie headed back to his car. Climbing in, he said, ”I’ll be making ma report to the Inspector and checking oot whit ye’ve told me. If it check oot, then I’ll return yer weapons. I’ll be back later this afternoon. I suggest ye didnae go anywhere in the meantime.”

Posted: **Mon Apr 10, 2023 11:22 pm**

Posted: **Mon Apr 10, 2023 11:31 pm**

" I think it would be most prudent to inform Mr Price of the cuttent situation. I wouldn't mind picking his brains over what we found in the diary, especially
the phrase, he may have access to more resources than we do. I see the good Father has ingratiated himself in with the locals. Maybe we had better leave him to it, he may find out more from them about what the local mood is about this business?" Dr Douglas says, motioning towards Father O'Shaban.

Posted: **Tue Apr 11, 2023 4:10 am**

"Aye, he'll be wanting an update anyway," says Bonnie. "There may be a telephone we can use in the pub, or if not, they'll know where we can find one."

Posted: **Tue Apr 11, 2023 8:18 pm**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Mon Apr 10, 2023 11:22 pm
”Ye think whitever did fer the sheep did fer McColl as weel?”asked Tam, sitting back and eying Father Ó Shaban carefully.

The door to the pub was open and the lights were on inside. Through the window, they could see Father Ó Shaban, who was sat talking to some of the locals.

Posted: **Tue Apr 11, 2023 11:48 pm**

Posted: **Wed Apr 12, 2023 1:35 am**

Ascot sighs, frustrated. "Well, let's see what our strange clerical comrade has got up to. And make a call to Price. And chase up some lunch."

"Miss Mackenzie, you may need to recommend a good Inverness solicitor to us. My exact fears for how this might play out with the local constabulary are coming to life. I am a businessman and I survive on my reputation alone. I cannot risk scandal."

"Is it too early in the day for a small whisky?"

He heads into the pub to find its telephone, rummaging in a pocket for small change.

Posted: **Wed Apr 12, 2023 2:56 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Tue Apr 11, 2023 11:48 pm
”It’s certainly a worryin’ situation. I’ve told ma Mary nae tae let the grandbairns play ootside until it’s all sorted,” said Tam, more serious this time.

OOC: There is a telephone in the pub that you may use.

Posted: **Wed Apr 12, 2023 5:06 am**

"I can find a good solicitor," says Bonnie, following him inside.

Posted: **Wed Apr 12, 2023 8:19 pm**

"Never too early fae a whiskey, single malt? I may join you. Miss MacKenzie would you like a drink?" Dr Douglas heads towards the bar, "Ascot let me know when you get through to Price."

Posted: **Thu Apr 13, 2023 12:00 am**

The games of dominoes continued in silence until Father Ó Shaban heard the door open and saw his fellow investigators enter the bar. Tam, Fergus and Rab glanced across then turned their attention back to the game.

Mrs MacPherson emerged from the back room to serve their drinks, a look of mild disapproval creasing her brow at the taking of spirits at such an early hour, and by a woman no less!

After determining the number he needed to speak to, the operator connected the call. After a brief chat with his secretary, Ascot was put through.

”Price here, Mr Ascot,” came the voice at the other end of the line. “How goes your investigation?”

Posted: **Thu Apr 13, 2023 3:56 am**

"I thank you for the offer, Dr. Douglas," says Bonnie, mindful of Mrs. MacPherson's disapproval, "but I shall have to take a rain check. Normally I would, as I appreciate fine whiskey and I'm nae driving anywhere, but it is rather early for me to drink. Perhaps this evening?"

Posted: **Thu Apr 13, 2023 5:35 am**

Dr Douglas smiles and nods his head in acknowledgement at Miss MacKenzie, "Perhaps a pot of tea then? Or Coffee?" He turns to face the stony face of Mrs MacPherson with a big smile on his face; " Two of your finest whiskeys, no ice and a small jug of water, and whatever the young lady requires my goid lady, we've had quite the day of it so far."

Posted: **Thu Apr 13, 2023 9:53 am**

Ascot tries to organise his thoughts as he slots pennies into the telephone. "Well, the first thing you should know is the police may contact you to confirm the nature of our investigation. We have been quite open with the local constable but he doesn't entirely believe us."

"We believe the last local Lord of the manor, an evil man from all accounts, brought some wild animals back from Africa, over a century ago. We don't know what but they have apparently survived and bred. And stayed hidden, more's the mystery."

"We searched the long abandoned manor in question and found lots of gnawed-on human bones. Apparent the buried members of the laird's family tree. The tooth marks are definitely animal, the doctor and I both agree."

"We also found a dead sheep only just freshly killed, which has been stashed in a tree, a trait of certain wild animals in Africa."

"We believe these wild animals are responsible for the death we are here to investigate. Unfortunately, the local constable has taken unkindly to our exploring the old manor, finding human remains, and generally causing him a headache. We may yet be charged with some criminal offence."

Posted: **Fri Apr 14, 2023 4:10 am**

Mrs MacPherson poured the two whiskys and placed a jug of water upon the bar. “I’ll hae a pot of tea brought out tae ye,” she said.

Price listened carefully to Ascot’s report. ”Difficulties with the local police is nothing new and I’ll obviously vouch for you should they contact me,” he replied. ”And I should stress that your investigation must be independent, without interference or influence from me but I can sense that you are unsure how to proceed so I will say this.”

“Your hypothesis seems sound but how will you obtain hard evidence that the creature exists and is responsible for the death of McColl? What can you find that will put the matter beyond all reasonable doubt?”

Posted: **Fri Apr 14, 2023 4:54 am**

"Thank ye kindly, tea would be lovely," says Bonnie.

Posted: **Fri Apr 14, 2023 6:53 am**

Walking over to Ascot Dr Douglas asks quietly if he's managed to get through to Price?

Posted: **Fri Apr 14, 2023 9:03 am**

Ascot nods agreement to Dr Douglas with a grin. He turns his attention back to the telephone call. "Well, you know my background. My natural instinct is to try to kill or even capture one of these wild animals. That would be hard for the local constabulary to ignore."

"Unfortunately, the constable who is unimpressed with us has also confiscated our weapons for the moment. Whatever these animals are, I do believe they are dangerous to an unarmed man."

Posted: **Fri Apr 14, 2023 7:25 pm**

Hearing this Dr Douglas nods in agreement, the knly way to prove the lads innocence and spare the community is find this creature, dead or alive.
" When you've finished, i would like a word with him."

Posted: **Fri Apr 14, 2023 10:16 pm**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Thu Apr 13, 2023 12:00 am The games of dominoes continued in silence until Father Ó Shaban heard the door open and saw his fellow investigators enter the bar. Tam, Fergus and Rab glanced across then turned their attention back to the game.

Mrs MacPherson emerged from the back room to serve their drinks, a look of mild disapproval creasing her brow at the taking of spirits at such an early hour, and by a woman no less!

After determining the number he needed to speak to, the operator connected the call. After a brief chat with his secretary, Ascot was put through.

”Price here, Mr Ascot,” came the voice at the other end of the line. “How goes your investigation?”

The Father finished with a last move on the game and declared his appreciation to the players before finally leaving them to rejoin with his group. As he sees them having a telephone call, he awaits in silence after joining them.

Posted: **Sat Apr 15, 2023 8:48 am**

”I can vouch for you, but I cannot tell the police to return your weapons,” replied Price. ”But you are resourceful people. That is why I hired you. I’m sure you will be able to come up with a scheme to secure the proof you need.”

Posted: **Sat Apr 15, 2023 9:41 am**

"We shall see what can be done. Before you go, Dr Douglas would like a moment of your time. But cheerio from me."

Ascot passes the handset to Dr Douglas.

Posted: **Sun Apr 16, 2023 12:41 am**

"Mr Price Dr Douglas here, i have some more information which i hope your extensive resources maybe able to help with. During our search of the manor I came across the McMorns diary. In it he relates a tale of a witch doctor he found in Africa who led him to some undiscovered city where he witnessed and was taught some ritual which summoned creatures which came from the trees in that area. After coming back to Scotland he continued this practice as it look like he has transplanted some of these trees into the surrounding area of the Manor. He goes onto outline how used local nair-do wells to provide him with corpses fir these creatures to feed on and using local livestock when bodies were scarce. The result being the many bones which I'm sure Ascot jas informed you. Now as time went on it seemed that he lost whatever contacts he used for the corpses and he resorted to use the bodies of his own family from crypt, again we found evidence to corroborate this. Im hoping that you may use your connections to help with any information to do with this. One more thing, there was a phrase written in the book which i hope you can help translate 'NIHAR CTHOR HAG NAATHI IST’HE GHLAN GHEIHNT’HOR.” He takes a breath waiting fir a reply, trying to think if he's remembered everything.

OOC: is there a roll i can do to see if anyone is paying particular notice to our phone conversation?

Posted: **Sun Apr 16, 2023 1:08 am**

"Dinna forget to tell him about the auld body we found in the locked room," whispers Bonnie. "I think that may have been him."

Posted: **Sun Apr 16, 2023 9:44 am**

" Oh yes, thank ye Bonnie we found a dessicated corpse in one room who we think may have been the master of the house. He had barricaded himself in the room and had probaly died of natural causes. Now his last entry in the journal that he alluded the the cretures had acquired a taste for fresh blood (most probaly from the livestock) and he could for whatever reason not keep with the feeding, and had hoped that the creature wpuld itself die of starvation. How ever it does not seem the case."

Posted: **Mon Apr 17, 2023 11:20 pm**

The telephone was located in the hallway adjacent to the bar and, despite the group’s comings and goings, it seemed that no one in the bar was paying any attention dying their phone call.

Price asked Dr Douglas to repeat the strange phrase and promised that he would ask his researchers to look into that, as well as the strange African city. He promised he would call if he had any further news but cautioned them again that their report must be independent if it were to have any credibility.

”I can help only so far,” he said. ”Finding out information for you is one thing but the proof of what is happening must come from your good selves.” He wished them good luck and rang off.

Posted: **Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:34 am**

Ascot wanders over to the others. "Well, Price has been forewarned. He can't help us much though. Father Shaban, did you learn anything interesting?"

"Do we want to keep quiet here at the public house until the constable reappears? Or go explore the rest of the village and surrounds away from the manor?"

"Or else I suppose we could go and annoy that doctor again, at least until he calls for the police and the constable puts us in chains for being a general nuisance."

Posted: **Tue Apr 18, 2023 5:08 am**

"We could also visit the Reverend again," says Bonnie.

Posted: **Tue Apr 18, 2023 6:22 am**

Ascot brightens up at this suggestion. "Good idea. He wouldn't normally be my first choice for a relaxing afternoon's conversation. However, the Reverend might actually be able to assist us with the constable. Or he may have some other useful ideas."

Posted: **Tue Apr 18, 2023 8:46 pm**

Snapper wrote: ↑Tue Apr 18, 2023 4:34 am

Ascot wanders over to the others. "Well, Price has been forewarned. He can't help us much though. Father Shaban, did you learn anything interesting?"

"Do we want to keep quiet here at the public house until the constable reappears? Or go explore the rest of the village and surrounds away from the manor?"

"Or else I suppose we could go and annoy that doctor again, at least until he calls for the police and the constable puts us in chains for being a general nuisance."

The Father answered seeming quite happy for how his day have gone arround after the other companions left.

"I had an interesting conversation with the Reverend, though I would suggest us not meeting him again today. I believe I had already talked with him enough for today, I can retell our meeting, but interacting more may bother the Reverend."

Posted: **Wed Apr 19, 2023 5:23 am**

"Please, do tell us," says Bonnie.

Posted: **Wed Apr 19, 2023 6:32 am**

"Yes, be good to get a feeling of what the good Reverand has to say and what the feelings anongst the locals maybe."

Posted: **Thu Apr 20, 2023 11:35 pm**

Posted: **Fri Apr 21, 2023 4:08 am**

OOC: Be quite useful to hear what the Rev had to say to the good Father.

Otherwise, happy to skip to whenever the constable reappears.

Posted: **Sat Apr 22, 2023 3:49 pm**

The Father was an educated man, and have great memory, and so he spoke explaining what the Reverend had said to him before.

"Yes, my combanions. Ze Reverend knew morre or less the same as any local of ze deceased Gordon MacMorn and his also deceased son Alex MaxMorn. Boz werre good christian, attent to ze kirk. As he grew older, Alex become full of wanderlust and left for ze african lands. He returned faizless and wiz two combanions, a native and a sailor. Ze father died, zere werre strange walkabouts and ze house was left abandoned suddenly not long after. Not a lot of new information, yes?"

"Though I managed to convince ze Reverend to announce to ze people zat zere is ze risk of a wild animal, as ze dead sheep implies. Ze least we need is some child dying by ze brredator, Inshallah."

Posted: **Sat Apr 22, 2023 5:12 pm**

"Is there any way we can find out the names of the servant and the sailor?" asks Bonnie.

Posted: **Sat Apr 22, 2023 11:11 pm**

"According to the diary the names mentioned are Douglas and Yuba. It is not stated
if the former is his christian name or surname but my money is on the latter." mentions Dr Douglas.

Posted: **Sun Apr 23, 2023 4:10 am**

Ascot has returned to slightly downcast humour, possibly pining for his firearms. Downcast, trending towards morose. "You know, sometimes in Africa we tie a live goat to a stake as bait, then lie in wait for the predator."

"But that would take weapons, and a goat. A sheep may suffice."

"Or if we think the beasties are more tempted by old bones as yet ungnawed on, there is that gentleman we found locked in his room. The presumed last laird." Ascot grimaces as he says this.

Posted: **Sun Apr 23, 2023 5:08 am**

"Hopefully we'll get our weapons back before evening," says Bonnie. "Perhaps the beastie is nocturnal. Nobody's seen it aboot during the day, and the killings happened at night, of both man and sheep."

Posted: **Sun Apr 23, 2023 8:59 am**

Reacting to what Ascot said," judging by what the journal states this creature usually feeds upon the dead but now it seems bery much to prefer to dine upon the flesh of the living....Maybe a visit to the doctor again, he seems to have an interest in the history of the place. He may let slip some information if we get him excited enough over our discoveries?"

Posted: **Sun Apr 23, 2023 1:31 pm**

Ascot takes a tiny sip of whisky. "I'd rather prefer the sheep or goat option, myself. The alternative is repulsive and disrespectful to the dead, even if they were bad in life."

"Here's another question for us all. Do we hope the Constable sees sense? Or do we have Miss MacKenzie call her family solicitor in Inverness, to see if the solicitor can advise us of our position, or can deal with the Constable's superiors? That might assist us, but obviously will irritate the Constable no end."

"My vote would be call the solicitor now, however, I am happy to go with the majority decision."

"Meantime, by all means let's have another try with the local doctor. He is very wily though, so far he hasn't slipped that I can tell."

Posted: **Sun Apr 23, 2023 2:10 pm**

"I concour, the solicitors is a good option. Would be best to know where we stand, if it puts the Constables nose out some what so be it. Forewarnes is forearmed as they say. Ascot any idea where we could procure a sheep? Or do.you think it best to appeal to the good villagers good nature in the hope they may..ahem..donate.. one as we are trying to protect them all from a savage beast?"

Posted: **Sun Apr 23, 2023 9:45 pm**

"Aye, I'll call the solicitor," says Bonnie, "but I think it should be for advice only at this point. Only if the Constable refuses to return our property should we get him directly involved. We dinna want to upset him if we dinna have to. As for bait, there's the sheep in the tree. The beastie put it there, so it will be back for it. We just have to be ready to catch it - and armed."

Posted: **Mon Apr 24, 2023 10:49 pm**

”Miss MacKenzie?” came the voice down the phone, “It’s Ewan Crawford. I’m afraid Mr McRath is in court and won’t be back in the office today. Is there something I can help you with?”

Bonnie recognised the voice. Crawford was the new junior partner at McRath & Brown, her family solicitors. He had all but shed his local accent while studying in England and he had a slightly pompous tone to his voice. She had been introduced to him at a barn dance not long after he started but he’d all but ignored her in favour of fawning over his new boss’ wife…

Posted: **Tue Apr 25, 2023 5:33 am**

"Just some legal advice for now, please, Mr. Crawford," says Bonnie. "Hopefully no legal action will be necessary." She explains the situation with the Constable taking their weapons.

Posted: **Tue Apr 25, 2023 5:07 pm**

BoyBlunder78 wrote: ↑Sun Apr 23, 2023 2:10 pm "I concour, the solicitors is a good option. Would be best to know where we stand, if it puts the Constables nose out some what so be it. Forewarnes is forearmed as they say. Ascot any idea where we could procure a sheep? Or do.you think it best to appeal to the good villagers good nature in the hope they may..ahem..donate.. one as we are trying to protect them all from a savage beast?"

Father Ó Shaban looked confused at this words, he pulled out 10 dollars out of his pocket.

"Forrgive, but why are you talking as if zere was ze need to be strange about the obtaining of ze sheep, we can buy it. At worst I will need to travel to iverness and obtain an exchange of currency, yes?"

Posted: **Thu Apr 27, 2023 3:56 pm**

Ascot continues to slowly sip whisky, keeping half an ear on the local end of the telephone conversation. "Well, the first problem is getting our weapons back or replacing them. We can't do anything until then."

"Once that's hopefully resolved, we might worry about sheep."

Posted: **Thu Apr 27, 2023 11:15 pm**

”I’m assuming that they were obtained legally and you have the necessary gun licences? In which case, Miss MacKenzie, I see no reason to be alarmed,” replied Crawford. “I’m sure the Constable will return them as soon as he is able but if he hasn’t returned them by tea time, please let me know and I can place a call to the Chief Constable to hurry things along.” He had that smug, condescending tone of someone who would use their connections to get through life…

Posted: **Fri Apr 28, 2023 4:48 am**

"Thank ye, Mr. Crawford, we shall do just that," says Bonnie. "We just want to make sure we get them back before nightfall, but without antagonising the Constable if possible. There's a wild beastie aboot." She fills in the others about what he told her.

Posted: **Fri Apr 28, 2023 7:05 am**

Ascot nods agreement. "Both my rifle and revolver are legally registered to me in London. I've had them both since the War." He looks resigned and tries to put a cheery face on events. "Are we happy to wait out the afternoon until the Constable returns, then?"

Posted: **Fri Apr 28, 2023 10:30 pm**

Snapper wrote: ↑Fri Apr 28, 2023 7:05 am

Ascot nods agreement. "Both my rifle and revolver are legally registered to me in London. I've had them both since the War." He looks resigned and tries to put a cheery face on events. "Are we happy to wait out the afternoon until the Constable returns, then?"

The Father seemed happy with that resolution.

"Inshallah, we shall rremain until zere is furzer notice. I have been playing games wiz ze locals, and I am sure you all could get some rrelaxation after zat mansions scares, yes?"

Posted: **Sat Apr 29, 2023 5:42 am**

"And my guns are legally registered in Inverness," says Bonnie. "Mr. Crawford could very easily prove that. Perhaps we could look up local genealogical records. I'm sure the Reverend could help us locate them. It would be interesting to see who Dr. McBride's ancestors are."

Posted: **Sat Apr 29, 2023 11:47 pm**

Posted: **Sun Apr 30, 2023 1:51 am**

Posted: **Sun Apr 30, 2023 2:44 am**

"I'm game. We haven't much else we can do and it's worth a try."

Posted: **Sun Apr 30, 2023 1:10 pm**

" To the Reverand it is then, they see where that leads us. Then possibly a visit to the goos Doctor depending on our findings of course.

Posted: **Mon May 01, 2023 4:03 pm**

Reverend McCallan was just walking down the path from the kirk as they approached. A look of fleeting exasperation passed over his face before he forced a smile and said, ”Ye are here agin. How may I help ye this time?”

Posted: **Tue May 02, 2023 5:13 am**

"We'd like to do some genealogical research, Reverend," says Bonnie. "We figured ye'd have all the local records. We want to find out the truth about Dr. McBride's ancestry. If he's nae descended from the MacMorn family, the records will prove that. And if he is, they'll prove that too."

Posted: **Wed May 03, 2023 11:32 pm**

The Reverend rolled his eyes most uncharitably. ”If I leave ye the registers to read, will ye let me get oan with ma rounds?” he said testily.

Leading the way back to the kirk, he cleared a space on one of the tables to the rear of the nave and returned promptly with two heavy, leatherbound books. ”Births, Christening, Confirmations, Marriage and Deaths,” he said, putting the books down heavily. ”I’ll leave ye tae it. Just close the door when ye’s leave.” He bid them goodbye and headed out to tend to his parishioners.

Posted: **Thu May 04, 2023 12:30 am**

Ascot pulls a pair of rarely seen, wire-framed spectacles from his jacket and puts them on.

OOC: Fail.

The reading being not Conan-Doyle, he soon loses concentration and leaves it to his more studious, not to say bookish, compatriots.

Posted: **Thu May 04, 2023 4:44 am**

Bonnie can always find what she needs in technical manuals, but church records are beyond her.

Posted: **Thu May 04, 2023 9:08 pm**

OOC: Hard success!!!

Dr Douglas in his element dives into the records with glee.

OOC: Would it be worth spending the 2 luck to make it a critical?

Posted: **Sat May 06, 2023 2:55 pm**

The Father Ó Shaban helped his group with the library work, he also was a learned man after all.

Posted: **Mon May 08, 2023 10:05 am**

Two hours passed. Two hours of poring over dusty church documents, cross-referencing names and dates but ultimately they found that all they had was little more than confirmation of information they already knew.

Gordon McMorn - Alex’s father - was descended from a long line of McMorn’s dating back more than 100 years. His date of birth, marriage and death were duly recorded, with a note to say that he had been interred in the family crypt, rather than the graveyard. His wife’s details were also recorded.

The birthdate of Alex and his sister, Moira, were both recorded, although no date of death was recorded for either sibling.

Outside the wind had picked up and the skies darkened as the first drops of rain began to fall against the church windows.

Posted: **Mon May 08, 2023 4:56 pm**

Father Ó Shaban looked at the darknening skies beyond the church windows with suspicious eyes, while checking again a document, he spoke.

"An ill omen ze rain is, inshallah. Most of ze breedatorrs like ze cover of ze coverring of ze sun, I would reccomend for ourr combanionshib to not sebarate except when ze light of ze lord is high on ze sky."

Posted: **Tue May 09, 2023 2:03 am**

Ascot looks out at the rain. "It is a bit gloomy out, although we are in Scotland. I believe this is what it's meant to be like. But sticking together is a good plan nonetheless."

"So, this sister Moira didn't apparently die with the rest of them up at the manor. The question is, did she have heirs? If so, my limited understanding of the law of the land is they can claim the place."

"And the next question is, is the slightly too clever English doctor such an heir? And does that help us? Other than adding to our distrust of the oik."

Posted: **Tue May 09, 2023 4:57 am**

Posted: **Tue May 09, 2023 11:34 pm**

Posted: **Wed May 10, 2023 3:48 am**

"It may be time to head back to the pub to wait on the Constable, eh?"

Posted: **Wed May 10, 2023 5:21 am**

"Aye," says Bonnie, checking her watch.

Posted: **Wed May 10, 2023 8:22 am**

"Aye, a wee drink and a bite to eat may also be on the cards. We could have a long night ahead of us."

Posted: **Thu May 11, 2023 12:08 am**

Mrs McPherson arranged for tea and shortbread biscuits (and a wee nip for Ascot) in the lounge. As the afternoon drew on, the winds picked up and clouds heavily with rain roiled across the sky, pelting the windows with heavy raindrops that threatened to soak to the skin anyone who ventured outside.

As they watched, the hands of the clock showed 5 ‘o’ clock and the bell sounded five times. It didn’t look as if Constable Leslie was coming back.

Posted: **Thu May 11, 2023 4:18 am**

"It's time to call the solicitor," says Bonnie, heading for the phone.

Posted: **Thu May 11, 2023 4:27 am**

"I think you're right. There is a difference between brave and foolhardy. Hunting whatever these wild animals are without means of defence would be foolhardy. And if we can't get our firearms back, I guess we could attempt to borrow someone else's? Or look at some purchases in Inverness tomorrow?"

"Whatever the case, there is no justification for our putting our lives at risk to satisfy the curiosity of Mr Price's society."

Posted: **Thu May 11, 2023 9:59 am**

"Precisely, I think we should maybe give the Constable another couple of hours then of we have dtill not heard from him maybe contact the station and ask of he's returned. Maybe its the ominous weather but i have a forboding feeling on the pit of my stomach."

Posted: **Fri May 12, 2023 5:11 am**

"We cannae wait any longer," says Bonnie. "It's only going to get darker, and we need our weapons now. Besides, something may have happened to him."

Posted: **Fri May 12, 2023 8:44 am**

"Absolutely, let us see what your man can accomplish this afternoon."

Posted: **Sat May 13, 2023 1:00 am**

”I’m afraid Mr Crawford is with a client and can’t be disturbed “ said the voice at the other end of the phone when Bonnie’s call was put through to the solicitors’ office. “I will tell him you called, Miss McKenzie, and ask him to call you back if he gets the chance.” The receptionist took the number of the public house and said she would leave a note for Crawford.

A few of the regulars were starting to drift into the bar, shaking off the rain from their coats as they settled in for a quick drink before heading home.

Posted: **Sat May 13, 2023 4:36 am**

"Let's go to the Constable's office to see if he's still there," says Bonnie. "I'd better wait by the phone in case Mr. Crawford calls back."

Posted: **Sat May 13, 2023 5:22 am**

OOC: Had the party noticed if there was anything in the form of a police station in the tiny village, or did the constable operate from somewhere further afield, like Inverness?

Posted: **Sat May 13, 2023 7:22 pm**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sat May 13, 2023 4:36 am

"Let's go to the Constable's office to see if he's still there," says Bonnie. "I'd better wait by the phone in case Mr. Crawford calls back."

Father Ó Shaban, as an old man, didn't seem really able to go into the rain and follow the party unto the dark, so he offered yo stay.

"Forgiveness forr my inability, but I believe I should stay. My old bones are not appropiate for zis climate. I will keep track of any calls to the tavern, and answer zem if necesary, yes?"

Posted: **Sat May 13, 2023 9:46 pm**

"Thank ye," says Bonnie, "but he doesna ken who ye are and may not be willing to talk to ye . It's best that I remain here, but ye're welcome to stay with me."

Posted: **Sun May 14, 2023 12:08 am**

Posted: **Sun May 14, 2023 7:21 am**

"I don't believe there is a police station here. The constable surely travels from one of the larger towns? He may have been distracted today with other police business. Some of us could have a look around the village for his vehicle. Otherwise, he may just as easily be in Inverness right now."

"Doctor, it may just be the two of us. Shouldn't take five minutes though, this is not a big village."

Posted: **Sun May 14, 2023 11:36 am**

" Lead the way, i feel better being more pro-active than just sitting around and waiting. I just get rather on edge. "

Posted: **Sun May 14, 2023 11:48 pm**

The wind had picked up and the rain that had threatened was rolling in as they left the pub to explore the village. The skies were dark with the rain-sodden clouds and the light was beginning to fail as the sun headed behind the nearby hills. It wasn’t dark yet, but it was certainly starting to be gloomy.

The streets of the village were deserted. It seemed everyone had taken heed of the weather and stayed indoors.

Posted: **Sun May 14, 2023 11:54 pm**

OOC: Bonnie is waiting on a return call from her Brief and the good Father is staying in the pub to avoid the rain inflaming his arthritis. So just Ascot and the Doc.

Posted: **Mon May 15, 2023 3:40 am**

Posted: **Tue May 16, 2023 5:52 pm**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Sun May 14, 2023 11:48 pm The wind had picked up and the rain that had threatened was rolling in as they left the pub to explore the village. The skies were dark with the rain-sodden clouds and the light was beginning to fail as the sun headed behind the nearby hills. It wasn’t dark yet, but it was certainly starting to be gloomy.

The streets of the village were deserted. It seemed everyone had taken heed of the weather and stayed indoors.

Is this just Ascot & Dr Douglas venturing forth? Was are Bonnie and Father Ó Shaban doing?

Posted: **Tue May 16, 2023 11:43 pm**

Posted: **Wed May 17, 2023 3:57 am**

OOC: I'm thinking check the village's main street then start spiralling out until we reach the edge out the village or out gets too dark.

Posted: **Wed May 17, 2023 8:54 am**

OOC: I agree. Hopefully spotting any signs of any policeman or indeed anyone/thing looking suspicious.

Posted: **Thu May 18, 2023 12:00 am**

Posted: **Thu May 18, 2023 12:08 am**

Spoiler:

Posted: **Thu May 18, 2023 2:06 am**

OOC: Hard success

Posted: **Thu May 18, 2023 3:42 am**

Posted: **Thu May 18, 2023 3:11 pm**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Thu May 18, 2023 3:42 am

"Thank ye, Mr. Crawford," says Bonnie. "Ye've done all ye could. I just hope we dinna need our guns before then." To Father Ó Shaban she says. "We should find the others if we can and get them to come back before it gets really dark. They're wasting their time, and they'll be in danger if they're out there at night. It's too bad ye canna carry a telephone with ye without any wires." She looks thoughtful for a moment. "One day I shall have to invent one."

Posted: **Thu May 18, 2023 11:07 pm**

Posted: **Fri May 19, 2023 3:29 am**

Posted: **Fri May 19, 2023 4:42 am**

Posted: **Fri May 19, 2023 6:58 am**

Dr Douglas watches McBride's features and body language closely. "What brings you out on such night Doctor? Nothing serious i hope?"

Posted: **Sun May 21, 2023 11:46 pm**

Posted: **Mon May 22, 2023 12:16 am**

Philulhu wrote: ↑Sun May 21, 2023 11:46 pm
”Hear something?” McBride turned and looked in the direction of the woods, the back towards Ascot and Dr. Douglas. ”I don’t think so. To be honest, it’s difficult to hear anything in this sou’wester. It’s like walking in a paper bag, even at the best of times!”

He laughed, but it sounded forced. ”As to me being out here, I’m on my way to see Agnes Gray. The poor child has whooping cough and I said I’ll call in and take a look at her.”

OOC: Just waiting for Father Ó S to decide what he’s doing.

Posted: **Mon May 22, 2023 11:13 am**

Posted: **Mon May 22, 2023 5:57 pm**

Posted: **Tue May 23, 2023 12:01 am**

Fail.

Posted: **Tue May 23, 2023 1:23 am**

OOC: pass

Play@YSDC

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