It was growing darker outside the windows as dusk settled around the Manor.  The candle light flickered in certain windows, some places brighter than others.  Fires roared in all the rooms, sending out warmth and more light if it was needed.  The day had been busy, everyone had been working hard to ensure the house was ready for the Festive season and the family and friends who would be sharing this high light of the year at Ambrose Manor.<br/><br/>The fair Lady of the house, a charming woman called Constance had been busily overseeing the activities and so far she was pleased with what she had seen.  But then with the capable and charming Mrs Baldwin overseeing the maids it was no wonder everything was looking ship shape.  The evening would be spent quietly for Constance, until her husband decided he wished for her company.  But sometimes he did not. If there was a girl who needed his attention there were plenty of others who enjoyed sharing a bed with the Lady of the House.<br/><br/>Dinner was done, the house now fell into that quiet peacefulness that often happened after a day spent busily working.  The staff were in their quarters, or the huge warm kitchen, sipping tea and eating their own dinner.  There were no 'girls' at the moment, the last lot had been sold and sent on their way a week earlier.  A good profit had been made, and one girl had been kept on at the Manor as Hawkins, the Butler had taken quite a shine to young Evie.  Constance was pleasantly relaxed as she returned to her rooms, she would read a few pages of a book she was enjoying and then call her lady's maid to help her undress and prepare for bed.  Of course plans could change rapidly, and they often did.<br/><br/>~~<br/><br/>Below stairs in the great kitchen the staff were sat around the large table, enjoying dinner and some chit chat before turning in.  Evie was still trying to find her place here.  She was struggling with the chores and had earlier in the day broken one of the vases with a careless flick of her hand.  She had yet to be punished, but was sure Mrs Baldwin and Hawkins would deal with her.<br/><br/>Evie wasn't really a clumsy girl, the vase had been unsteadily perched on the side and she hadn't been quick enough to save it as she caught it.  One of the footmen had taken it, saying he would be able to repair it, but still Evie had done wrong.  She knew she would receive the strap most likely.<br/><br/>Sitting at the far end of the table she hadn't joined in the conversation much, just listening to what was being planned for the morrow.  More rooms to prepare, more laundry to wash.  Her hands were already chapped and sore from the effort today.  She sighed, at least the food was good.  No more going hungry, that was the worst thing ever.  Feeling your belly moan when there was nothing in it.  No for Evie being here was a gift, she was just anxious now about her punishment.  And if she would be summoned to share a bed this night!<br/><br/>(OOC: Lets not go silly with the posting yet, lets see everyone arrive and then we can get into the fun)