A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Extreme =&gt; Extreme Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Senti on 29-03-2011, 12:08:44</h2>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>29-03-2011, 12:08:44</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/19/Cordialinvitation.jpg)</div><br><br><br><br><br><br>Cooper found it extremely easy to slip out of the kitchen and upstairs, after all the staff were certainly busy and somewhat preoccupied with the dinner and all that would transpire afterwards. At least two of the young women had arranged to meet a foot man of a guest on their next day off. <br><br>Obviously Cooper had more than a few tricks up his sleeves to avoid detection… after all he had seen a good deal of action during his time with the Major.<br><br>As the man found a place to wait, he began to feel an oppression in the air, there was an uneasy darkness in the house, now being alone Cooper could sense it more. There was a chill in this house and the flickering gas lights created unusual shadows, shadows that almost seemed to reach out to him. Something was not right here; there was something dark in this house. Perhaps it was just the silly gossip and tales of the maids…perhaps it was something more. <br><br>For now though Cooper stood alone and indeed he felt very alone and perhaps even vulnerable, he could here the dinner conversation….but could he hear another voice…a more distant one…&nbsp; <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>30-03-2011, 07:47:14</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				As he stood there, the longer he waited the more he felt it. That voice. It sounded like moths fluttering. As he listened, he sensed echoes accompanying the sound followed by an acute sense that the noises were overlapping each other. He shook his head violently to try and release his mind from such upsetting reverberations. <em>How could moths speak to him?</em> he thought. <br><br>His curiosity was growing. He must wait for Jessica but the voices were calling to him. His decision was made for him as through the racket he could her light foot steps. He was sure it was sweet Jessica returning, as she promised. Or at least he hoped it was her, as a cold sweat started to collect on his forehead. He tried to compose himself for her return.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Acid Lips</strong> on <strong>30-03-2011, 07:57:37</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Jessica smiled as she saw Cooper at the stairs, she walked down to him and bowed, "I am sorry for being a little bit late". She giggled and sighed as she sat in front of him, grabbing a small tissue she had on her pocket she took the sweat off his face gently and smiled, "Why nervous? you don't&nbsp; need to be so nervous in front of me I guess that by now you would had known that". Taking a deep breath she grabbed his hand and nodded, "Well, let's start the tour of this mansion, I guess we will start&nbsp; at the bottom and work our way up, okay?".
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>30-03-2011, 09:33:45</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				At her touch, his anxiety began to subside. He sighed as he relaxed. The voices in his head died down somewhat as she removed the sweat from his face. “I am felling a lot better now thank you. This place has set me a little on edge. It can be quite creepy it seems.” Smiling back at her as she took his hand, he tightened his grip a little which calmed him considerably. He nodded at her suggestion of how to proceed with the tour. Smiling warmly he responded “After you my dear. I await with anticipation at the delights to be revealed on such a night as this.”&nbsp; &nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Acid Lips</strong> on <strong>30-03-2011, 09:40:56</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Jessica nodded and smiled at him, she walked to the main room of the castle where her master and mistress often spent time reading, "This is the reading room, or library as some people call it. In here the lord and miss often comes to read, this is the calmest room on the castle and there is a lot of books of many different things." She wanted to try and not go to the room where the mummy was, she hated that room because of the odd creepy things going around it. Taking a deep breath she pointed at the kitchen door, "You already know the kitchen". She thought for a moment where she wanted to take him next. (Senti pm me and tell me in wich room the mummy is please so I leave that room for last lol)
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>30-03-2011, 15:25:07</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Still holding her hand, Harry followed Jessica down the first corridor. He listened intently to her descriptions and politely nodded to show his understanding of what he was seeing. He considered that his good friend, the Major, would appreciate the library as Tyler’s enjoyment of books was quite renowned. The whispers were still in Cooper’s mind but he was getting more used to them as time went by. He considered that when he was with Jessica the whispers seemed to reduce or maybe that was just a coincidence. When he was alone that was when they seemed to come. He also noted that perhaps they had something to do with the proximity to the mummy. Now that was more feasible. He smiled at his realization and before he knew it, he was outside the kitchens. <br><br>In response to Jessica, he answered “Oh yes I remember this place.” With a relieved smile, he commented “Now I have my bearings again. This place is much bigger than I thought. I am quite lucky to have such a tour guide as you.” He could see that she was possibly contemplating where to take him next, so he gave her a moment to consider. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Acid Lips</strong> on <strong>30-03-2011, 20:02:08</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				She nods and smirks as she decide to take him to the maids room, she walked by the kitchen and opened the next door to it, "This is the maids rooms, this is my room and the next couple of doors are the other maids room" the room had only a few books and a bed, nothing else to her name. Taking a deep breath she looked at him as he looked at her room and her face went red in embarrassment "As you can see I don't have much, but it's because I don't need it. I been here all my life so I have no idea what the outside world is about, and both books are in how to serve better and etiquette. She smiled placing a small lockpick on her drawer and nodding, "Want to move on?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>31-03-2011, 07:38:41</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				As he considered the room, it was indeed simple but as she said it is all she needs. Seeing the bed excited him as the realisation that they were alone down here came swiftly to Cooper’s mind. He wanted to stay here with her and show her what the outside world was like. Seeing her redness, he remarked “There is no need to be embarrassed. As you say this is all you need. What do you say that we take a little break from the tour for a little while and get to know one another a little more?” As he waited for her response he could not help but notice the lockpick on her drawer. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Acid Lips</strong> on <strong>31-03-2011, 07:42:09</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				She nods and took a deep breath walking to her bed and sitting down on it. No man had ever entered her room, nobody entered her room not even the lord or the lady. Taking a deep breath she tried to relax as she look down, her body was hot and her cheeks were red with embarrassment, "Y.. you are the first person.... to ever come here.... not even the lord or the lady enters my room or any of the maids room". She sighed opening the window leading outside so there is some wind on the room.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>31-03-2011, 08:24:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Then I am honour to be the first” he said as he moved towards her. “You say that you have not experienced the outside world. Perhaps you would like to with me?” <br><br>As she looked outside and her back was to him, he continued to move closer to her until he was near enough to feel the heat coming from her perfect body. He touched the back of her dress and moved his fingers up her spine until they reached her neckline. With the softest of touches he moved his fingers under her chin and lightly stroked the soft skin of her neck. He sighed to relieve some of the excitement that was emanating from inside him as he did not want to scare her off. To relax her a little, he tried to changed the subject briefly “Tell me dear, what does that lockpick unlock?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Acid Lips</strong> on <strong>31-03-2011, 08:30:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She shivered when she felt his finger on her back, "Would like to what?". She never was advanced before so she had no idea what he was talking about. Taking a deep breath she shook her head and grabbed the lockpick hanging it from her neck by a small golden chain. Opening it up there was a photo of a very beautiful woman and a baby on the other side. The woman was wearing a very old maid uniform, "That is my mother, my family has been searching this household generations for a long time, and the baby it's me".
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>31-03-2011, 08:56:00</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Seeing her confusion at his comments, he tried to explain. Before he did however, he felt the need to remark on the picture “I can see that it is a treasured possession. You must love her dearly.” He then turned her head to face him.<br><br>Feeling the need to explain his actions somewhat he asked her “Tell me, what went through your mind when I touched you and what sensations did you feel? Be as honest as you feel comfortable as by answering it in such a way will give you some idea as to the delights that await you outside this house or even inside this room for that matter.” He smiled at her and pushing assumption aside, he concluded “Assuming of course that you like me touching you.” He moved his hand away from her neck for a moment giving her time to focus and respond.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Acid Lips</strong> on <strong>31-03-2011, 08:59:47</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled letting the lockpick hang from her neck as she sighed, "It felt good, I felt shivers down my spine as if somebody had moved a feather on my back, not sure how to describe it". She looked over at him and smiled, "I don't mind you touching me, it's just that nobody had touched me there before and it felt kind of weird but good". She smiled looking at him and taking a deep breath, "Show me what delights are out there for me, show me what I been missing". She smiled not having any idea what she just got herself into. Taking a deep breath she looked at him as she touched her lockpick with her finger.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>01-04-2011, 08:15:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He took two steps back from her so he could take her in. Feeling his excitement grow he began to explain “First my dear I would like it very much if you would continue to face me and slowly remove your outer garments. Once done please place them on the chair to your right. Then I will explain to you what I would like you to do next.” Whilst he waited, he took a chair from behind him and sat down with his legs crossed and he is right hand resting under his chin, to appear thoughtful. He wanted to explore her there and then but he would be patient, at least for now. He took a deep breathe to relieve this need. It helped a little but for how long only time would tell.&nbsp; &nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Acid Lips</strong> on <strong>01-04-2011, 22:38:21</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				She shrugged as she heard his order and nodded, only thinking of making him happy she looked for the zipper on her side and opened it as her dress fell down to the floor. She covered herself a bit still somehow feeling ashamed of being semi naked in front of&nbsp; him, but he had ordered it. Looking at him she looked down after and sighed, "okay I removed my outergarments... what now sir...?".&nbsp; She wondered what else would the man make her do, but she was curious to see what she had missed, her entire life was about the lord and miss so she had no idea of anything else to the point that she did not knew how to have sex.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>02-04-2011, 18:34:22</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				He watched her intently as she began to undressed. “Very good” Cooper remarked. He took a deep breathe as he took her in. She was as beautiful as he had expected. He continued to find it hard to withstand his need as the deep desire grew within him, but he knew he must endure. <br><br>Seeing her discomfort, he commented “Do not be ashamed. Lower your arms to your side.” He waited for her to comply. “What I would like you to do now is to walk towards me. Come within two feet and stop. Once there slowly remove the rest of your clothes, telling me, in explicit detail, the sensations that are coursing though your body as you do this. Once you are naked, I would like you to face me with your arms behind your back.” While he waited he opened his legs and rested his right elbow on his right leg and let his hand rest on his left leg. He remained focused on her and waited for her to follow his instructions.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>09-04-2011, 11:15:51</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				As Cooper was enjoying his rather interesting visit and tour with the young maid Jessica, he was suddenly distracted from the most attractive ‘show’. He felt the same sensation that he had felt as he passed the locked room. The moth like whispering a and the dry fluttering, Jessica felt something&nbsp; too, as if hands were reaching out to her, wandering&nbsp; over skin with a cold touch, as if something was caressing its way into her mind.<br><br>However Cooper’s sharp ears were aware of something else, something more tangible, voices, though they were muffled he could tell they were foreign. Surely whoever they were, were neither guests nor servants…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>10-04-2011, 15:38:00</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				For a moment, he lost focus of her. That noise was back and this time it was here to stay. This time voices seemed to be woven into the original noise. “Can you hear that, Jessica?” He was going to wait for her response but realising that she more than likely did, he continued. “No don’t answer that, of course you hear it or I am going mad. Those noises from within the house, they are back.” He wanted to stay but he knew that he had to leave the room and investigate. With or without her he had to know where the noise was coming from. “I am sorry but we will have to continue this at a later juncture as I feel I must investigate what is going on. Please get dressed and follow me if you would like or stay here where it is safe.” At that he stood from his chair, turned to face the door and opened it. He then twisted his head to see if she was following his instruction to dress.<br><br>At that he turned to face the exit and within a few strides he found himself back on the stairwell where they had met Jessica just before the tour began. He was not sure if she had followed him as the noise in his head had increase so much that he could only focus on that. He began to consider that, like every normal sound, the closer he got to the origins of it the loader it would appear. He was not totally sure he should investigate that theory; however the need to know far out weighed his common sense so he pressed on up another flight of stairs. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>14-04-2011, 08:02:24</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				As he reached the top of the stairs to the first floor, he heard a load noise (the same noise that Helena heard) to his right, which seemed to come from the room at the end of the corridor. He could not make out what it was but it made him turn on his heal, nearly loosing his footing on the last stair, and pound down the corridor. He felt he was getting closer as the disturbing noises in his head increased ten fold. He found that he was holding his hands over his ears and shaking his head as he ran, until finally he could not bear it any longer. He had to get into that room. He had to know. He could feel the veins in his body burning with anticipation, as he stood in front of the door. The door appeared to him to be distorted in some way as he tried to focus on it. What was stopping him from entering? He must get in. he removed his hands from his ears as they were having little to no effect on preventing him from hearing the noises. With his free hand, he reached for the door knob and turned it. To his relief the knob turned with ease.&nbsp; 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>14-04-2011, 09:45:37</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hello...?" A woman's voice called from upstairs, a pleasant enough voice it had a slight tremor in it, as if the woman in question was nervous about something. "Anyone there...?"<br><br>When Cooper looked up there was a light shining on the next landing.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>14-04-2011, 10:00:00</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The door was locked. He tried it again only to be distracted for a second by a voice that broke the noises in his head. He turned his head only for a second to see a light coming from the landing. “Stay there” he barked “It is not safe here. I will come to you.” He turned his body to face the direction of the light and slowly walked towards her. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>14-04-2011, 12:53:01</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Just as the light touched Helena’s face, just as Copper saw her everything went black, the light did not just flicker it was no more. There was a scream…. From the room of the Lady of the house…<br><br>&nbsp;Within moments or at least what may have been moments something charged past both Helena and Cooper. Whatever it was, was huge and had thick fur and was breathing heavily. This thing shoved Copper and Helena to the side and bashed the door aside without a thought. Then there was a howl and the sound of glass shattering.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>14-04-2011, 14:31:09</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"Alright," Helena called back, her voice still shaky. The man sounded reassuringly human, not like a ghost at all but the voice was unfamiliar. When she heard him come up the stairs she raised her lamp for a better view. The poker too went up a few inches. If it <em>was</em> some kind of creep she was going to give him such a whack and then she was going to scream and no-one did screaming like Helena... <br><br>Luckilly, he proved a perfectly normal-looking, neatly-dressed man and she relaxed a little, lowering her weapon.&nbsp; <br><br>Then the lights went out and someone screamed.<br><br>Helena froze, too scared to move. Minutes seemed to pass in the darkness, the only sound that of her heart beating madly. Then something charged past and threw her aside. She fell, landing painfully against the banister at the top of the stairs. The lamp flew from her hand and shattered on the floor below but the poker was still there. She had a weapon! She turned around, swinging the iron implement wildly in a two-handed grip but the creature, some kind of creature, had already run ahead. <br><br>Whatever it had been it was gone. For now at least. <br><br>"The children..." she choked, her companion in the darkness as good as forgotten. She dropped the poker with a clang and rushed back the way she came, feeling her way along the walls, back to the nursery. "James! Alice!"<br><br>She should have never left them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>15-04-2011, 07:37:28</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Almost upon her as the darkness fell. He stopped instantly as if he had forgotten the way. He could here pounding on the stairway and then suddenly he found himself falling backwards into the wall. Whatever it was it was big, it was black and it wanted access to that room and Cooper was in the way. That is why he was falling, and that is why he felt a sharp pain in his hand as he hit the wall. He was all alone now, that was for sure. The woman had gone. Perhaps the beast had taken her. <br><br>It took valuable seconds for him to gather himself and rise. He knew what he had to do. He had to find her. He would start in the room. The one he wanted access to earlier, but could not get into. He had heard a door shatter. Perhaps it was that door as the beast was heading in that direction. He began his slow blind walk to the door. He tried to light a match to assist his journey but would not even spark. He tossed the matches aside in frustration as he hand began to throb in pain. He knew it was broken.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>15-04-2011, 10:22:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cooper also found that though the sounds in his mind was fading the darkness itself had a terrifying quality to it, it seemed to invade each orifice and even ones mind, the poor governess Helena felt this too. It was more than disturbing, was there really something in the tales the children had been telling, and the gossip which was always going on downstairs…<br><br>That howl had brought fear too to both of them, as if it came from some monstrous devil hound. Helena was aware that the scream had been likely from the mistress’s room. There was no sound now, all she could hear was the children calling out for their mama.<br><br>As Cooper moved towards the room it seemed silent and the stench that emanated from there was vile, it was sickening, many times worse than the bodies and hospitals he had witnessed in his time in the military. Something about this darkness was disoriantating too.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>15-04-2011, 17:52:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Helena felt the darkness invading her, it seemed to choke her, seemed to seep all the strength from her body, all the will from her mind but the one overpowering will was still there. She had to find the children. Their clear voices were ringing out through the darkness and while it was their mother they called for it felt very much like they were calling her. <br><br>"I'm coming!" She called back, her voice sounding strange and very loud in the darkness. <br><br>She realized then it was probably not smart to make so much noise. The hairy thing that'd pushed her might still be around somewhere. And so she bit her lip and pressed on, placing one foot before the other, hands outstretched as she looked for the nursery door. Finally, her questing hands bumped into wood and a little later she found the doorknob and she turned it, swung open the door and stepped inside. <br><br>"James, Alice...?" She called softly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>17-04-2011, 15:55:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The vile smell began to take over him until finally he could not stand it any longer. He was sure she was not in the room as no one in their right mind would go any further in that direct. At that he heard her. Her voice was coming from the direction of the stairs were he first met her. So he about turned and using the walls to guide him in that direction. He had to get to her as he had a strange feeling that the danger was not over quite yet. <br><br>He knew he was getting close when he heard her once again. He stumbled on the stairs for a brief moment and once he had his footing he was up them like a shot. He called down the corridor of the third floor as he could hear footsteps going down it to his right. He hoped they were hers “Hello, please I mean you no harm. We will probably be better in a group than alone. Do not be frightened. I mean you no harm.” As he said this he continued down the corridor. Whoever these footsteps belong too, Cooper was catching them up. Then he heard her voice again and then he was convinced it was her. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>17-04-2011, 17:39:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The two terrified children began to make their way to the voice that they knew, even though the darkness was truly terrifying being alone in it was more so. Alice was still sniffing and occasionally sobbing, and James for all his young years was trying to be a man. <br><br>Both of them just wanted to be with a grown up that knew them, and that they knew well. Alice was clutching both her brother and her dolly, the one her mother had brought back from Paris. <br><br>There was another eerie howl, though this time it was more distant…<br><br>The darkness started to fade, it was slow and painful, and though the foul scent seemed to remain at least the light was gradually returning. Even the gas lamps flickered back into show as if pushing away any of the horror that remained. However there was horror.<br><br>When the children finally saw Helena they ran to her, of course they knew she did not like them, but they needed normality.<br><br>As the young an most attractive Nathanial raced up the dark stairs and&nbsp; long the corridor he was able to find the room that the scream had come from, not only was the door shattered, very much like the one that Cooper was going to enter like the other door there was thick black hair attached, to the wood.<br><br>Inside he found a woman in her bed garments shaking and in a state of distress, at her side was another woman that appeared to have her neck broken, she was certainly dead.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>17-04-2011, 18:53:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh dears..." Helena's voice was full of relief as the light returned and suddenly there were the children, safe and well - if every bit as shaken up as she was. She kneeled and took them in her arms as they ran up her, then hugged them close and maybe just a little too tight, not just for their comfort but for hers as well. <br><br>Despite the light returning, he heart was still thumping madly and she felt far from safe.<br><br>"It's going to be alright," she heard herself saying as she stroked the two heads with their soft hair. "It's going to be just fine..." <br><br>She spotted Cooper then, who stood nearby looking down on them and quickly got to her feet. She took a step forward so she was standing in front of the children, and pulled herself up to her full height. The effect was quite arresting. She was a large woman, tall and strongly built with a large bosom and wide hips - all of which were well and truly covered by a rather severe black dress. And there was something in her eyes, a matronly defensiveness that looked out of place... She was not that old.<br><br>"And just who might you be?" She asked imperiously.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>18-04-2011, 13:17:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Realising he had not the time to introduce himself before this moment, he proudly responded “I am Cooper, Major Tyler Harrington’s man servant. Harry Cooper if you which to address me in this way. However, I personally prefer Cooper.” In return he requested her introduction “Tell me, what name do you wish for me to address you with?” <br><br>Initially he considered the way she protected the children to be quite misplaced, but as he measured her over reaction, he realised that she, up until a few seconds ago, did not know who or what he was and still, like him, did not know what was going on in this house. So upon further thought he decided that perhaps her reaction was just. <br><br>Calmly he tried to calm the situation “Please, I mean you or the children no harm. In fact, if you would permit me too, I mean only to protect.” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>19-04-2011, 08:30:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the man so calmly gave his introduction Helena allowed herself to relax a little. The major’s servant, yes – that made sense. She remembered now that she’d seen this Cooper before, downstairs in the kitchen, chatting with the other servants. That did not seem like the action of a burglar, serial killer or part-time furry monster. <br><br>"Helena Whitlock," she said. "Miss Whitlock will do, I think," after all they were hardly on a first-name basis. Though she had to admit her memory was a bit hazy on etiquette in emergency situations. "I'm governess to the Winterstone children." As she said that last she stepped back a little and reached down to grab the children’s hands, wanting to keep them close. The children obviously felt much the same and were clinging to her skirts, while also calling for their mother.<br><br>The woman stepped towards the banister once more and looked down on the floor below. The mistress' room was there, and she was almost certain that was where the scream had come from before. Now she could see the door had been blown clear off it's hinges and her hands tensed around the children's.<br><br>"You wouldn't happen to know what's going on...?" She asked a bit shakily, looking back 'round at Cooper. <br><br>It was only then she noticed he was injured, something obviously the matter with his hand.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>"You're hurt."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>19-04-2011, 11:58:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looked to his throbbing hand “Oh that, its nothing. Just a flesh wound.” His smile to convince her that his hand was fine would not have fouled the most naive of people, but his hand could wait. He had to find out what was going on too. <br><br>In regard to what was going on in the rest of the house, he shrugged and commented “Perhaps we should all go and find out as there has been much screaming down on the lower floors.” Not knowing the house all that well as yet, he made a suggestion. “As you know the house much better than I, I would suggest that I follow you.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>20-04-2011, 10:36:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The last remark earned Cooper a searching look from Helena. <em>She</em> should go first? Had he not just offered to protect her and the children? And as for her knowing the way... The place that worried her the most was right down the stairs, the ruined doors in plain sight, no need for a guide to help find them.<br><br>And she was rather worried about what might be behind them.<br><br>Also, she still did not entirely trust this man who'd introduced himself as Cooper. Oh he looked harmless, with his injured hand and his brave little smile. But what if he was some kind of&nbsp; creep after all...? What if he was just waiting for her to turn her back so he could shove her down the stairs? It would be an easy thing to do if she walked in front of him... Oh she was being paranoid now... But paranoid or no she found herself quite unable to move towards the stairs, to turn her back on the man and head towards that room.<br><br>"I believe the scream came from right down there," she said, gesturing down the stairs.<br><br><em>Please</em> let him take the hint and go first.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>20-04-2011, 11:11:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“That’s Mama’s room…” The children were still clutching at Helena’s skirt after all they did not know this man and he rather scared them. He smelled a little strange, and they wondered why he was up there. The ‘beast’ did not appear to worry them, “Do….do… you think….mister shuck ….was hurt?” Alice whimpered quietly hoping that the man would not hear her words.<br><br>There was certainly sobs and whimpering from Mistresses room, though it had been suggested many times that she may have to go to ‘special hospital.’ Though of course the children knew nothing of that.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>20-04-2011, 12:38:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taking the first of her directions into his mind and visualising the first series of corridors that they will need to negotiate, responded “Right you are, my dear. I would suggest that you stay close by my side, perhaps a little behind me but not too far back so that I can not grab you hand should we need to run. From there I will be able to hear you directions and you will be as safe as I can make you.” <br><br>Trying to lighten the mood, but most likely failing, he continued “The last thing I want is for you to be the victim of a head on attack.” He smiled at her and boldly stated “They would have to get through me before they get to you.” Of course they could always attack from behind, whoever ‘they’’ were, but he had done this sort of strategy before and it had served him well. “So, shall we got going then?” he suggested.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>21-04-2011, 10:03:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Coopers words utterly failed to put Helena at ease, serving only to make her more nervous and she turned this way and that, her eyes exploring every shady corner, half-expecting some monster to leap out at them... The children speaking of a mister Shuck did not help either. <em>Shuck? As in Black Shuck!?</em> The word made her think of great black hell-hounds with burning red eyes and of something else... Rumours the maids had been going on about, a great black beast that had supposedly been seen prowling the gardens around the mansion. She shuddered. <br><br>She found herself moving closer to Cooper. Oh she still did not trust him but he was a sturdy-looking sort, cool-headed in the face of danger and he spoke of protecting her and was willing to go in front and she was grateful to him for all those things. As she crossed the distance between them her eyes fell on the poker she'd been holding before, lying on the carpet where she'd dropped it, and she bent to pick it up. Holding it in a two-handed grip as she siddled up to the man, stopping only when she brushed up against him. <br><br>"Down the stairs," she said hurriedly. <br><br>Obviously she wanted very much to get going.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>22-04-2011, 13:25:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Seeing her pick up the poker, he could see that she was quite willing to use it or indeed she had used it before. She would be quite able to take care of herself, he taught, should the lights go out yet again, or even for something more concerning was to occur. These thoughts brought a smile to his face. He then looked in the direction of the stairwell and started his way towards it. As he did, he looked behind to make sure the armed Helena was following him. He then went down the stairs and waited for her to direct him further. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>22-04-2011, 13:47:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				James frowned at the stranger, he didn’t trust him, the boy thought he might be one of the bad men that both he and his sister had been told about. He also wondered what this man was doing this far up in the house. Had he upset mama. There was a moment of decision that passed across his face; the boy knew he had to protect his governess and his sister because they were just women.<br><br>Looking most serious James left the protection of Helena’s skirts and decided to behave like the man of the house. As his sister continued to cower and sob the boy walked to he man and kicked him hard. “You sir are scaring my sister and you should not be in this part of the house….are you one of the bad men?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>22-04-2011, 13:54:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He turned to James, who had followed them to the staircase, and to reassure him he commented with a smile "No young man, I am not one of the bad men. If anything I am one of the good men. That aside I welcome your inquiry and find you to be quite brave. Would you like to follow me and the good Helena downstairs as I would think you would be more safe with us then without us?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>23-04-2011, 12:35:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"James William Winterstone!" <br><br>Helena called out as the boy kicked Cooper, but she didn't sound quite as angry as she'd meant to because inwardly she had to smile. Such a dear boy, trying to protect his sister. <br><br>"That is no way to behave to the gentleman who's so kindly offered to protect us," she said. "Now, I think you'd better apologize," she went on, giving him a pointed look.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>24-04-2011, 09:30:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The boy stopped, he was in the process of almost punching the man Cooper, but he had a greater fear from the gaze of his governess. Helena was no a woman to be trifled with, no ever under no circumstances. James mumbled an apology to the man and then returned to the safety of the woman’s skirts. He still didn’t trust the man one bit he would be watching him closely. The night had been an extremely frightening one, though being a boy he would not show it. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>24-04-2011, 16:59:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Waiting for his apology and seeing that it was not forthcoming, Cooper smiled warmly at the boy. “You are quite the brave soul now aren’t you”. He then looked to Helena, once again. “Shall we continue downstairs my dear?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Prakkie</strong> on <strong>24-04-2011, 19:32:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The governess nodded at James as he apologized. That was better.<br><br>Helena did not trust Cooper either. James was right, he wasn't supposed to be in this part of the house and he was a stranger and given the circumstances he was awfully calm and collected. Suspiciously so, she felt. But the woman believed not-trusting someone was no reason to start acting like a savage. Proper behaviour should be observed at all times. <br><br>It was for that very reason she was not-at-all charmed by Cooper being overly familiar by calling her 'my dear'.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>"Yes mister Cooper," she said pointedly, "Let us continue downstairs. And might I just say I admire your nerve..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>24-04-2011, 20:08:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Although scared at what he had seen so far, years of military training had helped him to mask his concerns. When the Major was not around he automatically took charge of any situation. Protecting others was second nature, even to the point where he might put himself in harms way. Once he had been given the go ahead to continue downstairs, by Helena, he nodded and waited for her to proceed so he could protect her and anyone else who wished to follow.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>24-04-2011, 20:46:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Of course the poor boy had no idea that his dear papa was dead, and that his uncle would likely be taking on all of the estate. After all is mother was a woman, and worse than that it was more than apparent of less than a sound mind. He was of course concerned about his mother’s sobs that had been heard, however his sister and his Governess as it was the norm to hear his mother in pain or sobbing.<br><br>He spoke no more to the man after the apology though he did notice some black fur on his coat. James wondered if Mister Shuck had hurt this mans wrist or had it been another reason? <br><br>As they headed downstairs James approached Cooper. “You know Mister Shuck…” he tugged at the black fur…<br><br>(OOCfeel free to post in the upstairs post now)<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Kitsune</strong> on <strong>26-04-2011, 06:04:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=102146.msg4518540#msg4518540">Quote from: Senti on 17-04-2011, 17:39:03</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">As the young an most attractive Nathanial raced up the dark stairs and&nbsp; long the corridor he was able to find the room that the scream had come from, not only was the door shattered, very much like the one that Cooper was going to enter like the other door there was thick black hair attached, to the wood.<br><br>Inside he found a woman in her bed garments shaking and in a state of distress, at her side was another woman that appeared to have her neck broken, she was certainly dead.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>As the lights flickered on he reached the door jam and cut himself on a splinter.&nbsp; His hand came away with a smearing of blood and what disgustingly appeared to be black hair.&nbsp; Seeing past his hand he noticed the women and the one who looked to be in a state of shock.&nbsp; He was dumbfounded at first thinking he had much too much to drink.&nbsp; The other woman in the bed, her head was at an impossible angle.<br><br>"What the hell happened here," he exclaimed.&nbsp; "Are you all right?"&nbsp; <br><br>He began to move into the room to come to the woman's rescue but it was as if hos voice and movement stirred her into action.&nbsp; She leapt from the bed like a demoness, a broom appearing in her hands as if magicked there.&nbsp; She came at him crying "murderer!" as he threw up his hands to fend of the crazed woman.&nbsp; He had no idea what had brought this on but he was becoming angered as he was battered by the straws of the broom.<br><br>"Woman!&nbsp; Get a hold of yourself!&nbsp; I murdered no one."&nbsp; He roared as he grabbed hold of the broom and jerked it from her, pushing her to the ground.&nbsp; "Are you insane?&nbsp; I've come to aid you!"<br><br>He had no idea what was capable of shattering the door from its hinges or that could come in and quickly and cleanly kill the woman but he knew it was unnatural.&nbsp; He thought the woman had had enough but she jumped to her feet and began to beat at his chest.&nbsp; Normally this would be a bit of fun for him but as the situation stood, now was not the time.&nbsp; He could only fend her off as best he could, yelling for her to calm herself and growling his frustrations.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>27-04-2011, 11:31:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fending the woman off was not too difficult even if she did appear rather savage in her attacks, they were somewhat ineffectual. She certainly looked rather ill, both in body and mind. She was attractive in some ways or at least had been. Perhaps Nathanial might have recognised her from parties more than a year ago. There had been gossip&nbsp; about Lady Winterstone and her ‘problems’ many considered she had just been placed somewhere to aid her health. After all there were some rather excellent institutions now. <br><br>He was finally able to get her back to bed though she was sobbing now and asking about her ‘babies’ and were they well? Had they been hurt in the darkness? Though half of the time the woman was gibbering. Seemingly she had not noticed the nurse with the broken neck; at least by attire one could assume her position. However in this house it seemed all was not as it seemed.<br><br>Looking about the room by the hand of dead woman was what appeared to be a ceremonial Egyptian dagger. Also there was dark hair, likely animal that had been caught on the shattered door.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>04-05-2011, 10:56:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Two young maids find Nathanial and the dead body</strong><br><br>Just as the rather handsome Nathanial had managed to calm down the rather crazed Lady of the house, with some difficulty mind you, he was disturbed. Two maids, one attractive enough and the other rather plump and plain stood in horror at what they saw. There was silence for some time and then they both started to scream.<br><br>Not long after the scream a rather gruff looking man in a suit arrived followed by two policemen&nbsp; He took in the scene before speaking, “What the bloody ‘ell” His accent was very much a northern one. “You stay where you are lad for the moment.” As it was he had no where to go the two rather frightened maids were sent down with one of the policemen.&nbsp; It really did not look good for Nathanial.<br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Kitsune</strong> on <strong>11-05-2011, 02:47:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nathaniel spun about to see two maids.&nbsp; Almost as if in slow motion he could see there rather ample chests swell to take in deep breaths.&nbsp; He had to stop them but how.&nbsp; Their eyes were terrified and he could almost taste their fear and all this happening as the world seemed to slow.<br><br>"No, no, no, no," he coaxed quickly, his palms out and waving, his face a mix of his own surprise and pleading innocence.&nbsp; It was to no end.&nbsp; Time resumed and the two began to scream.&nbsp; "Please, it's not what it looks like.&nbsp; She was like this-," he tried to explain.&nbsp; They did not hear him as they shivered in fear clutching each other as if the support would ward off any evils.&nbsp; Then they were joined by police and not too far behind his sweet Emily Rose.<br><br>He clapped his forhead in consternation, smearing blood on his face.&nbsp; He was not in a position to look good.&nbsp; In fact, if he were anyone else, he would assume the worst as well.&nbsp; He watched as the two maids were escorted away.&nbsp; He stepped forward, exasperation filling his voice.<br><br>"I assure you, I came only to the rescue and instead happened upon this.&nbsp; I did..not...kill this woman.&nbsp; She was already dead when I found her," he explained but the stoic attitude of the police officer did nothing to assure him of anything, despite his innocence.&nbsp; He turned to the Lady of the house.&nbsp; "Tell them.&nbsp; Tell them what you saw.&nbsp; Tell them it was I!"&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>13-05-2011, 12:40:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Lady shook and gibbered a little more, she was talking of knives and great beats from hell, she spoke of ravens with eyes that shone bright, and her children. She spoke then of the goblins in the wardrobe that cut holes in her dresses… though within her gibberish there might have been mention of the man that came to slay the beast…<br><br>The inspector did his own face palm….this was becoming decidedly messy, worse so because he was dealing with dignitaries and in his position he did not want to upset anyone. He rather preferred dealing with the scum in the Eastend after all no one complained if one had to get a little rough with them. “Well Sir…” he turned then to see Emily Rose who had been more than a little distressed, “And you my good Lady perhaps both of you might return downstairs to speak to my colleague. Also I feel I might need to speak to you in private sir.”&nbsp; The evidence was damning against this man…as it was it might have to be pinned on one of the servants if this gentleman had enough money to grease a few palms. <br><br>Also that bloody opium addict of an inspector could deal with the possiblity of another hysterical woman.&nbsp; “I suggest you clean yourself up a little.” He stayed with the lady of the house and was not pleased with the prospect of dealing with this delirious woman. He hoped one of the bobbies would return soon. this house had a strange atmosphere to it, and it was troubling. The sooner this was over the better...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Cordial Invitation IC (Cooper in the Darkness)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Kitsune</strong> on <strong>22-05-2011, 18:01:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nathaniel would have said more but he knew what was going on in that inspector's mind.&nbsp; He had blood on his hands, regardless of it being his own and a dead woman with a broken neck.&nbsp; Even if the Lady of the house could pull herself to gether to give one coherent thought, it looked bad.&nbsp; He growled his assent to the police and grabbed a rather alarmed Emily Rose by the elbow and twisted her about.&nbsp; He guided her roughly down the stairs, fuming at the ridiculous mess he was in.<br><br>"Nathaniel, what is going on," she demanded, jerking her arm from his hand.&nbsp; "I was worried and that inspector, he seemed to think you....were involved."&nbsp; Emily was truly concerned.&nbsp; This night was starting to turn out rather horrifying with it's dead people.<br><br>"I haven't a bloody clue," he said with a dangerous edge to his voice.&nbsp; He took a moment to calm himself and exerted that great control over himself lest he go into a apoplectic rage.&nbsp; "It will be fine Emmy."<br><br>Going to the drawing room......<br><br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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