A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)
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		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Extreme =&gt; Extreme Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Senti on 30-08-2011, 21:16:13</h2>
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				Title: <strong> A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>30-08-2011, 21:16:13</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/19/Cordialinvitation.jpg)</div><br><br><br><br><br>With just weeks remaining before they wanted to see the guests once again from that oh so interesting night, Lord Winterstone sat in his study as he drafted out the invitations that he would have his servants send out in the morning. The invitation read like this.&nbsp; <br><br><br><div align="center"><em>Lord and Lady Winterstone cordially invite you and a guest to their country estate in Sussex. <br><br>We request your company for a weekend of shooting, sports and other such distractions.<br><br>The occasion will commence on the evening of Friday 1st June and will end on Sunday 3rd June around noon.<br><br>We of course look forward to your company on this very special event.</em></div><br><br><br>When satisfied with the final draft he did made sure there was enough for all before sliding each invitation into their appropriate envelops. <br><br>When morning came he handed them to the postman, which was rare, as he of late found the light to be too much for his eyes. They were soon on their way to their destinations.&nbsp; <br><br><br><br><br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>31-08-2011, 10:31:34</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong> Sir Terrance Harrington request’s that his son, Tyler, go in his stead to a shooting weekend</strong> <br><br>(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/Exford_tcm8-4030.jpg)<br><br>Major Tyler Harrington could not believe that his father wished to see him on such short notice about something other than the burial of his third wife, Claudia. It had been only a week since he had seen the lovely Lady Rowena and by the looks of the conversation between his father and himself he was most likely to see her again very soon. On the morn of the funeral, his father, Sir Terrance Harrington, stood as Tyler listened to what he had to say. An invitation had arrived a few days ago at his father’s residence and like before with the Mummy unveiling at Lord William Wintersone’s residence, Terrance wanted his son Tyler to go instead of him. <br><br>This time the location had changed as had the inviter, for obvious reasons, but this time the reason’s for going sounded much more exciting to Tyler. So unlike before he showed no reluctance to accept his father’s request. Unknown to Tyler and indeed his father, the invite was most likely for the Major but as it had arrived at Terrance’s manor and the invite showed no sign of who it was addressing, Terrance had assumed it was for him. Either way it was now in the hands of his son who was still looking it over. After his father excused himself, Tyler spent the next few minutes looking out the window as he watched his father leave for the church, Tyler would catch him up in a little while. <br><br>With just a few days remaining until the 1st June 1888, Tyler had much to prepare as he summoned his maid to assist him in his planning. “Alice” he said softly “It appears that I must take a little trip to Sussex in a few days and require that you pack the usual things for the journey once i have returned from my wife’s funeral.” He observed her as she smiled and turned to being the preparations. Before she reached the door to exit the room, he spoke again as he had one more thing to do today before he could start to look forward to the shooting weekend. He coughed to clear his throat. “Before you go I would like you to accompany me today. As you know I need to bury my wife, Claudia. I may not have discussed this with you before, but you may have notice that she has not been around for the past few months. Please dress accordingly as I will be leaving for the church in an hour.” <br><br>During the short journey to the church, he spoke further on the subject “As you know she disappeared some months back and was found in White Chapel recently. I have to admit that there is something a foot in London and I have to say that it will only get worse, before it gets better.” Of course in this case, he knew who killed her but with the murders going on at the moment it was easy to blame another and with her body turning up in White Chapel the blame was of course put elsewhere. <br><br>After the service, in which Tyler shed a tear, to good effect, they both returned to the estate after Alice comforted him for a little while in the carriage. She then went to organising his little trip with his man, Cooper. The next few days went slowly as Tyler paced the grounds, for the most part, until the morn of Friday 1st June. It would take him some time to arrive at the estate in Sussex so he set of early once he had trimmed his recently grown beard. <br><br>(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/071009091154Dorian_Gray_5.jpg)<br><br>So there he was, Major Tyler Harrington, in his private coach of four horses travelling to alone the cobbled streets as fast as the horses could take him. His man, Cooper held the reins so he felt perfectly at ease as he watched the streets go by. In time the horses did slow until they eventually stopped. This could mean only one thing, he had arrived. <br><br>He took a deep breath as his door was promptly opened by Cooper who then accompanied him to the main entrance. Upon arrive, he introduced himself and his driver to the doorman as well as enquiring as to where Cooper could retire for some refreshments. Once Cooper has been directed to the servant’s quarters, Tyler was granted access to the house, where he removed his navy blue jacket to revail his fitted dark suit with blue cravat over a white shirt. He did not have to wait long to be shown to the other guests if indeed anyone else had arrived as yet. More words were exchanged between the Major and the doorman until he was finally directed into the room where the rest of the guests would be gathering. Upon entering he received a glass of wine from one of the younger female servants as he scouted the room for a comfortable chair in which to rest.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>02-09-2011, 21:46:38</strong>
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				Having arranged previously to be picked up by her host's coach at the train station, the Romanian Countess Irina Constantin arrived at the Winterstone estate without having to lift anything heavier than her reticule, though not without a bit more effort on the part of the porters and servants. She retired upstairs to her room immediately to change out of her stylish traveling dress and into something more suited for socializing with the other guests. <br><br>Cut in the latest style from Paris out of a rich, deep blue fabric that set off her eyes, her attire was intentionally stunning, designed to compliment her dark hair and fair skin as well as her eyes and make her look every inch a member of Europe's elite. <br><br>After changing, she had a servant direct her to the room where the guests were gathering. Seeing Tyler there, she gave him a pleasant nod and said, "Good afternoon." Her words were pleasantly accented, but quite clear.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>03-09-2011, 10:02:02</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler talks to Irina</strong> <br><br>Working through his second cigar, Tyler began to think he had the wrong day. Well of course he hadn’t but he had been alone for some time. When he heard voices from the hallway, he hoped it was Rowena. He was a little disappointed but he soon put on pleasantries when who it was entered the room and spoke to him. Rowena he hoped would be here soon enough. In the meantime he saw no harm in talking with the new face. After killing his cigar in the ash tray, to his side, he took a sip of his wine, which was quite warm by this point.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>He focused on her for a few moments and judging by the way she was dressed and indeed how she presented herself made Tyler think that she had to be of good breeding or just lucky. In fact wasn’t that the same thing nowadays, he considered. She seemed in her 20's but Tyler was never very good with age. Petite yes but not in an impropriate way in fact her figure intrigued him for a moment. Was she naturally shapely or was that the result of the corset. As his eyes moved from her chest to her head her blue eyes caught his attention before moving on to her elaborately style black hair, which emphasized her pale skin beautifully.<br><br>So that she could sit, he stood from his chair after placing down the wine glass, which was within seconds being refilled as he stood. He returned in kind with a nod and smiled before speaking “And a good afternoon to you too. The name’s Harrington, Major Tyler Harrington and what my dear should I call you?” He waited for a moment and suggesting for her to join him in the chair opposite his “Please sit as this chair by all accounts has a good view of the gardens and perhaps while we wait we could ‘chew the fat’, so to speak.” <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>03-09-2011, 22:21:06</strong>
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				"Irina Constantin, Dowager Countess of Suceava," Irina replied with a charming smile. "It is a great pleasure to meet you, Major Harrington."<br><br>"Chew the fat?' I'm afraid I am unfamiliar with that colloquialism..."<br><br>She settled into the chair Tyler had indicated, glancing out the window as he gestured in that direction. "Ah yes, the gardens are lovely."<br><br>A servant moved close, inquiring if she wanted a drink. "A glass of white wine, please." A moment later, she had a glass of wine in hand. 
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>03-09-2011, 23:31:09</strong>
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				<br><strong>More Guests arrive</strong><br>Lady Charlotte Howard had arranged to take the young inspector for many reasons, most of which no one needed to know. Not only had he asked to go for more amorous and perhaps selfish arrangements but also he knew the needed to aid his close friend Charlotte.<br><br>All their baggage and luggage had been placed into their rooms because of course Johnny could not be seen in the ladies room in that respect. (The fact was his interests did not lie there.) She had made sure his place to retire to was extremely close to Andrew.<br><br>As it was she had some investigations to attend to.<br><br>The two entered the room and were introduced of course both of then knew the Major from other meetings however they did not know the other fine and apparently foreign lady.&nbsp; There was a slight raise if an eyebrow from Charlotte but nothing more. After all it was not her affair if someone wanted to play games. The Lady Howard often played roles out of necessity and thus could spot another. Thus she said nothing; however this dignitary would be watched, as there had been terrible events at the last meeting of the Winterstone Household.<br><br><br>The inspector was quiet and looked about the room, he was trying to understand the house but he was also hoping that someone might have been invited. <br><br>Drinks were offered and finished cigars were removed as various other guests were also shown in. The Lord would soon attend though his rather lovely Lady Malsika was apparently suffering from the vapours but would soon be down for dinner.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>05-09-2011, 17:19:31</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler with Irina awaiting more guests</strong> <br><br>“It is a pleasure to meet you and in regard to us "Chew the fat" or indeed "chew the rag" they are just English expressions for gossiping or making friendly small talk.” He smiled at her as she settled into her chair and requested a drink from a nearby servant.&nbsp; Not knowing her intrigued him slightly so he probed a little in his questions. “So tell me my dear, if I am not prying too much or indeed at all, what brings you to this most excluded of locations?” <br><br>While he was asking his question, he noticed in the corner of his eye that other guests were arriving. He smiled when he observed that one of them of the good Lady Charlotte Howard and was that Johnny with her? His eyes soon refocused back onto the Countess while he waited for her response.&nbsp; <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>05-09-2011, 19:26:40</strong>
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				"Hmmm... Yes..." Irina said in reply to Tyler's explanation, giving the impression she thought it a bit vulgar sounding, but quite glad to add the phrase to her repertoire. <br><br>"I am accquainted with the Winterstones through a friend. After spending so long in London, I found the opportunity to spend some time in the countryside very welcome. It reminds me of home, a bit." <br><br>Seeing several new arrivals entering the room, she gave them a cordial nod. 
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>05-09-2011, 20:14:51</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler with Irina awaiting Rowena</strong> <br><br>When Irina had answered his question, he noticed from the door from which they entered that is was indeed the inspector, Johnny, from the last time he saw Charlotte. As they entered the room, he observed them as they were given refreshment and smiled to them both before returning his attention to Irina. <br><br>“Oh I see, well a friend of theirs is a friend of mine” he said openly. “My only hope is that this weekend is a little more relaxed than the last time I was in the company of the Winterstones.” He took a sip of his wine before concluding his sentence. “Of course I won’t bore you with the details as they are not suited for a lady. However, I instead propose a toast to new friends and the wonders that it could bring to us all.” When he said this, he lend forward and moved his glass to clink with Irina’s as he looked to the side with his eyes in the direction of Lady Charlotte, nodding slightly to acknowledge her. <br><br>After leaning back into his chair his thoughts of Rowena came flooding back. He hoped she would be hear soon as the room was started to get a little more crowded and he so much wanted her to be close. He had even saved her a chair next to him. In the meantime he found Irina pleasant company so he saw nothing wrong with getting to know her a little more. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>05-09-2011, 20:39:53</strong>
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				Irina smiled. "I feel the same way..."<br><br>She'd heard rumors of the events at the last Winterstone gathering, though nothing reliable. Although she was curious to hear more details, she knew better than to pry too much. She lifted her glass gladly at his suggested toast and replied, "To new friends!" She loved meeting new people, even if she couldn't say she had many friends. <br><br>Still smiling, she leaned back in her chair, gazing out the window. "Lovely day. You liking forward to the shooting?"
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>06-09-2011, 00:49:03</strong>
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				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark pondered the invitation as he sipped on his tea. A weekend in the country seemed just the thing to take his mind off things, especially the rather strange things that had been happening recently. Shooting, that meant shotguns no doubt not a weapon that he owned. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All he had brought back from his army service was his service revolver, which he had purchased. The army frowned on bringing home a rifle and shotguns where never army issue. Hopefully guns would be provided for those that needed them. Mind made up he gave instructions to his housekeeper and then answered his correspondence before he went to pack. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He finished his packing and hesitated before pulling open a drawer and extracting his revolver and a box of ammunition. He put them into his suitcase and then closed it firmly.<br>Hopefully there would be no cause to take out the weapon, but one never knew.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So it was that after paying of the carriage driver who had brought him from the station Mark walked up the steps and knocked sharply on the rather grand doors.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>06-09-2011, 08:10:36</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler with Irina awaiting Rowena as the doctor arrives</strong> <br><br>Now shooting he loved. In the unrest in India he seemed to enjoy the target practice. Whether it is a deserter, prisoner or even a more inanimate target. He smiled at the suggestion and remarked “Oh yes, my dear. Shooting is what I do. I have even packed my trusty Enfield should they not stock a suitable weapon for me. Cooper, my man, is a better shot than I but I am not sure if he will be allowed to join us for the activity.” Feeling a little dry in the mouth for a moment, Tyler refreshed his pallet. “I trust you will be joining us?” <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>06-09-2011, 23:47:34</strong>
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				"Oh yes. I cannot think I can claim close to your skill, but it is a pleasant way to pass the time in good company." She knew how not to shoot herself in the foot and that was about it. <br><br>"Lovely way to get some fresh air..."
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>07-09-2011, 08:40:10</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler, gestures to Charlotte to join them</strong><br><br>Pleased, if not a little surprised, that Irina enjoyed the sport, Tyler smiled “Yes, indeed so, it is a wonderful way to while away the day. Well I do not know if we will be shooting anything today, as I have not been made aware of the plans for the weekend so far.” <br><br>For the briefest of moments, he looked upon Charlotte, once again, and tried to get her attention. With her not being too far away, he gestured for her, and indeed Johnny, to join him and his new friend Irina. Not sure if they would come at this point, he moved his attentions back to Irina. “I hope you do not mind but I have invited some people over to join us.”&nbsp; <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>13-09-2011, 07:44:11</strong>
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				<br><strong>Lady Rowena Bleakmore Ashwin snubs the Winterstone's</strong><br><br>Sitting at her desk Rowena gently opened the invitation that had been left there since early morning,&nbsp; taking it out and glancing it over she begun to read it's contents her mind pondering as she did so.&nbsp; The bright morning light from the large windows of her study had bothered her more of late, but that was of course just the late nights and pouring over books such pursuits and obsessive gleaming for a glimmer of fact among mostly drivel was bound to dull the sight.&nbsp; That's how Rowena explained it away to herself anyway, her aunt was always telling her reading books so much and taking such interests would do her no good perhaps there was indeed some fact.&nbsp; <br><br>And so Rowena sat in her study the light dim curtains drawn both to keep out the bothersome brightness and just to avoid thinking of that strange hound,&nbsp; out of sight was out of mind after all if there was no chance of seeing it there was chance to forget it perhaps. After taking in the contents of the letter Rowena considered the invitation, a shooting weekend she was curious as to why she been invited it seamed quite peculiar so soon after such a tragedy but well social life went on, it was an opportunity perhaps to meet with those who where there that night again and Tyler would be there of course most likely she assumed so.&nbsp; But here was an opportunity a chance and Rowena's mind seized it with a defiant will, no Rowena shall not play to there grace she was intent on sending a message. That night was not forgotten and the suspicions had not died they may wish to pretend as such and move on to try climb that social ladder, Rowena would cast the stones of doubt and make&nbsp; her opinion obvious and dam the consequences who could blame her for not wishing to attend the events of murders and schemers.&nbsp; <br><br>She smiled to herself as she planed her own scheme to snub the invitation and make sure it was known, she would send Barnabas with her reply and decline to attend with false reasons of course such was expected but all who could read between the politeness of etiquette would know the truth.&nbsp; And with her presence unexpected Rowena could remain in residence of her own nearby, perhaps she would decide to make a surprise appearance or keep tabs and of course if she was seen to be in the area oh the rumors would be most entertaining. <br><br>And so it was that Rowena left her estate once more dressed discretely and traveling in her private carriage which did not bear the marks of her father and family, it was most exciting and she could not help but feel a old thrill as she traveled with her entourage on to county of Sussex. Once settled into her discrete abode for the stay a old farmhouse cottage, she dispatched Barnabas on horse with her letter of decline.<br><br>Barnabas opened and resealed the letter before actually arriving at the estate reading it over and smirking slightly behind his mask, she was quite like her father and mother it seamed he resealed the letter with a practiced hand as he did all of Rowena's correspondence just as the order and her Father had tasked him to do. It could wait to be told and Rowena may become suspicious if there was news or rumor in much delay in him turning up at the estate or not at all, he was not looking forward to the task it meant a social occasion and he did not expect he would be welcomed specially not after Rowena's decline. <br><br>As he rode the horse into the Winterstone estate and was greeted slightly suspiciously due to his appearance he showed the letter and glanced blankly at the men who greeted him, his appearance intimidating as it was and his silence made things rather awkward and he was unsure if he get away with passing himself of as mute. He grunted in a guttural damaged tone overplaying his disfigurements and inability his mask alone should tell them all they needed to know, after the letter was taken Barnabas waited just encase he was asked to stay as Rowena had asked although he could see little reason why they would want him there.&nbsp; He hopped they would not invite him in as interested as he was in snooping around for Rowena the potential for having to talk or socialize with people was far to great, and those looks and the talk of his face of his disfigurements would be most frustrating last thing he wanted was a weekend of that. <br><br><strong>Rowena's Letter of rebuke</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><em>To whom it may concern<br><br><br>Thank you for the invitation to your country estate in Sussex on the 1st of June.<br><br>Unfortunately, I have pressing business with the theater and my household staff due to my aunt's poor health, and so shall be unavailable over the coming month and not able to attend your functions presently and in foreseeable future. <br><br>Nevertheless, thank you for inviting us and I and my household are sure that your event will be a most enlightening and eventful occasion for you and all those in attendance.&nbsp; <br><br>Please pass on our apologies for not being able to come and share in the plans. <br><br>Yours truly,<br><br>Lady Rowena Bleakmore Ashwin</em></div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>13-09-2011, 14:04:15</strong>
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				<strong> Charlotte and Johnny join the Major</strong><br><br>Charlotte smiled at the major he amused her a good deal, he was pleasant company, mad thus she enjoyed it. “Oh I am so pleased to see you Major Harrington, also your company. She smiled politely though there was a wicked glint in her eye. The inspector who at the moment was ‘draped’ on her arm like some trophy, he appeared too have somewhat heavy lids eyelids remained quiet, he was looking for some else at present and appeared a little distracted. Of course again the Major was well aware of the scent which hung about him.<br><br>The Lady Charlotte approached and put out her gloved hand waiting to be introduced. She knew how to behave in public. Johnny was certainly a little uncomfortable, but at least it seemed though there was darkness in the house it was not as yet as terrible that night…at least he was for now away from London for he knew that dark matters were going to happen. The streets would be drenched with blood yet again.<br><br>Somewhere in the distance a dog howled. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>15-09-2011, 14:08:56</strong>
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				<strong>The Doctor is directed to his room.... and then to the drawing room</strong><br><br><br>The door was opened by the butler, he appeared stern&nbsp; but stalwart as one might expect, there was a slight pallor to his face but that could be from many illnesses perhaps something from London after all Mark had noticed though he felt a little stronger his skin was growing a little less healthy. <br><br>“Ahhhh Doctor….” The man said as he took Marks card, “Please come in and let one of the maids show you too your room thus you may get acquainted to the house.” The butler then went on to explain where he was and then had a paid help him. The young lady when allowed to speak told him that some of the guests had already arrived. His luggage was left in his room leaving the maid to unpack as he freshened himself. <br><br>The doctors room was decorated beautifully and was comfortable as well as large, however there was a strange ornament on one of the shelves, it was a hurdy gurdy. When his eyes passed over it he was almost sure that he could hear the tune. Still guests were waiting… and he needed to be announced. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>16-09-2011, 00:22:51</strong>
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				Mark finished getting refreshed from the journey and then studied himself in the mirror. His skin was looking a tad pale, maybe a tonic would be a good idea. He could hear a humming coming from the room and moved so that he could see into it.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The young maid was humming s she put away his clothes and then he saw her hesitate and guessed what had caused that. Stepping out of the bathroom he walked over to her and picked up the revolver. “It is quite harmless.” He pushed out the revolving chambers, “See all empty, no bullets.” <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He could see the slight widening of her rather blue eyes followed by a rather dreamy look, the pulse in her neck and he thought how nice it would be hold her eyes with his and then to bend his head to her neck. With a jerk of his head he flicked the revolving chamber back with a solid click. <br>“Best put this out of the way in the drawer.” He stepped past her and opening the drawer slid in the revolver and then closed it. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She in turn seemed to snap out of a daydream, “Sorry sir.” She returned to her work as Mark checked his tie and as he did so he noticed a rather odd ornament, a Hurdy Gurdy and for a second or two he could have sworn it was playing.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Just another odd thing to join the others he was experiencing at the moment. Then he nodded to himself and went down to the drawing room to be announced.<br>&nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>16-09-2011, 13:46:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler, talks with charlotte</strong><br><br>Pleased that Charlotte noticed his gesture, he waited for her to come and join him and his new friend Irina. He stood when she was close and gestured to a chair that he thought Charlotte would like to sit and get comfortable in. He looked to the Inspector for a moment and when noticing that the man was deeply distracted for many reasons, he soon shifted his attentions back to the ladies, Charlotte and Irina. The scent was of course known to the Major, but he knew it was not the place to mention it. “It is a pleasure to see such a wonder as you again, Lady Charlotte. I thought that was you. Please join us. I have a chair for you and Johnny right here.” <br><br>He looked to Irina, with a smile, for a moment and felt it necessary to introduce her to Charlotte. “Irina this is Lady Charlotte Howard and to her right, if we can get his attention, the Inspector or indeed Johnny.” He realised that during the introductions that he could not recall the Inspectors last name. He hoped no one would notice or indeed that if Johnny showed a little more interest he might add it later. Turning his head to address Charlotte, he spoke again in order to finish the introductions. “Charlotte and Johnny, may I introduce a new friend of mine, Irina Constantin, Dowager Countess of Suceava.” When all the introductions were done, to his satisfaction, he finally sat and took a drink. Talking had made him thirsty to the extreme. <br><br>The Major was so focused on the group that the howl went unnoticed, but his man, Cooper, who had gone exploring in the house after dropping the Major’s bags in his room, heard it and moved to the window to take a look. Seeing nothing he soon found his way to the servants’ quarters where he would spend the evening unless summoned by the Major. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>16-09-2011, 17:35:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina smiled pleasantly at Charlotte and Johnny, giving no sign that she thought less of anyone for the rather irregular introduction Johnny received. "It is a great pleasure to meet you," she proclaimed in charmingly accented English. "Any friend of the Winterstones is a friend of mine.<br><br>"I would be honored if you would join us. We were just discussing the gardens and the pleasures of the weekend's activity."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>18-09-2011, 11:51:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> The Winterstone Estate, more introductions before dinner.</strong><br><br>The gentleman named as Johnny then introduced himself properly and more politely as Inspector Bakersfield, he tilted his head studying the woman in front of him slightly. There was almost a lazy amused smiled crossed his face. <em>well that was another interesting turn up</em> A glance passed between he and the Lady Charlotte. No words were spoken though.<br><br>“It is an absolute pleasure my dear, it has been a time since I ghillied for anyone, or …” She chuckled “Even fired a gun, goodness whist on a short trip to India I so wanted some fun with the elephant gun, but father being so stuffy said it was not ladylike.”&nbsp; The young woman had an easy smile and it seemed did not entirely play the society game. The term often used was a fast lady.<br><br>“So tell me Major have you been well since the last event we met at? And you Countess, how are you finding the English Climate, and I am sure it would be wonderful for you to regale us with some stories of your homelands as we wait for dinner.”<br><br>It was at this moment the Doctor was announced by the butler, Charlotte caught his eye and beckoned him over to join them, she had found him a pleasant enough man and after all he had been there on that fateful night of horror that had started to knock down the house of cards that had been stable for so long. “Charlotte politely introduced the Countess to Doctor Harman. He of course knew the other two. In the back of his mind Mark Harman was sure he could still hear the Hurdy Gurdy.<br><br>It was then that Barnabas arrived he carried with him a message and apologies, ye was greeted politely, and the message was taken, of course he was offered some hospitality he was easily able to decline it. He was sure that there was a raven sitting upon the carriage he had arrived in, though it flew off rather quickly. <br><br>Again there were dogs howling far off in the distance, perhaps they were merely guard dogs or ones for hunting on the estate.&nbsp; Still they sounded somewhat eerie. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>18-09-2011, 13:38:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Rowena in her Country House</strong><br><br>Of course Lady Rowena had much to think about since the last evening, she sensed there was a feeling of foreboding even here in Sussex&nbsp; &nbsp;perhaps the Winterstone’s, or at least the new Lord and Lady&nbsp; (if she could be called that) brought with them some sort of strange horror. A darkness was about them, that much she knew, and it would only grow worse.<br><br>Her sight had seen that, her visions showed her such horrors in London and even further a field. She screaming often kept her awake or rather woke her up at night. There would perhaps be a dark war if those that were neutral for now did not stop it.<br><br>Often in her dreams Rowena saw a Chess Board but she and others that had been at the event, the unwrapping, as well as faces she did not know were the pawns. Strange hands moved them and oddly they were no always the same.<br><br>The woman noticed a Raven at her window and then sometime later one of her maids told her there was a lad in the kitchen asking for work…He was insisting to speak to the mistress, and would not be moved.<br><br>In the distance Rowena could hear the same howls that those at the shooting weekend heard. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>18-09-2011, 15:43:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Rowena country life and strange pursuits <br></strong><br><br>Rowena was most intrigued by her feelings and the strange foreboding she sensed she had not expected such, but she once again found herself slightly delighted by the sensation it was a confirmation of things and a proof of sorts of things she often questioned.&nbsp; The fears and horrors she experienced in her dreams she had been trained to confront and question,&nbsp; Rowena handled them unlike others for she not only expected them from time to time she was intrigued by them and of finding answers within them.&nbsp; Rowena's Father had well prepared her for such things and if he had instilled anything in Rowena in raising her it was an almost indomitable courage and questioning nature, Rowena could not forget such things she had to explore them she had to find a truth or answer among them. <br><br>So unlike others rather than try forget such things Rowena reveled in them and obsessed over the meaning she detached herself from what it might mean for her, instead focusing upon the thrill of the quest to understand them.&nbsp; And so Rowena found herself busy with the unseen once more and made sure she was left alone and not disturbed unless necessary, she found herself once more forgetting&nbsp; time and eating at strange hours find her appetite absent the all consuming thirst for answers driving her will. Books where of little use to her and those she had brought with her did not really pertain to such subjects, so she relied upon her intellect and thoughts her skills as a medium and prophet trying to open herself more to these dreams and signs.&nbsp; <br><br>She barely noticed the raven and when she did she paid it no mind, it was but a bird after all and this was the country it was not strange for a bird to be here. The howls did slightly startle her and break her concentration for a moment but again she did not connect them logically shooing them away, this was the country such was to be expected.&nbsp; The knock at the door and the voice of Rose brought Rowena back to her senses however and she glanced over wondering if she had forgotten breakfast or dinner this time, perhaps it was another brew of tea no she had not requested such and the tone seamed insistent. Rose would not disturb her unless it was something of importance she stood from her chair and headed to her door.&nbsp; <em>"Yes Miss McMullock what is it ?"</em> Rose opened the door slightly surprised to see Rowena up and about she smiled faintly at her and curtsied <em>"I do be your pardon Lady Rowena but there is a lad at the door, who insists to speak with you he will not go away and is most insistent that he speak with you."</em><br><br>Rowena paused for thought for a brief moment Rose stood patiently awaiting Rowena's reply <em>"Shall I have him sent away Ma'am?"</em> Rowena shook her head and smiled to Rose <em>"No not at all Rose, please invite the lad in an make him comfortable fetch something to eat and drink for him won't you.&nbsp; And inform the lad that ill be down shortly to speak with him, take note of how he act's won't you Rose make sure he is not left alone be a good host to our guest until I arrive to speak to him." </em> Rose curtsied and nodded in response to Rowena before leaving to do as she asked, Rowena returned to her room and checked her appearance making sure that she was fit for visitors even if it was merely a lad. <br><br>Assured that she was fit for a visitor Rowena headed from her room and out to find the lad she stopped once she was in view of him and waived away Rose.<em> "Thank you Rose I shall speak with the lad now"</em> once Rose had departed Rowena glanced to the boy again <em>"So what is so urgent that you require to speak with me then lad?" </em><br>&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>18-09-2011, 22:45:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark smiled as Charlotte gestured for him to come over, two of her companions he already knew but the other lady was an unknown.&nbsp; After she had been introduced he gave her a polite nod, “Dr. Mark Harman, late of the Indian Army and now with a modest medical practice, very glad to meet you.” <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then he included all of them in his comments, “Hope you all had a pleasant journey? I must admit I had a very pleasant one, the train was comfortable and the meal in first class most enjoyable. The carriage ride showed the countryside off to its best effect. So different the Green of England to the dusty barrenness of the North West Frontier.” <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He looked around and then said, “Hopefully there will be no repeat of the unpleasant events at our last meeting.” <br>He glanced quickly around, just where was that faint music coming from although the howling of dogs then drowned it out.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>19-09-2011, 08:47:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler notices Barnabas</strong><br><br>Of course that was his name, Inspector Bakersfield. It was little surprise that the Major had forgotten since that night had been so amazing he was surprised his even remember any of the names. <br><br>He turned to Charlotte upon her addressing and smiled “Quite well, thank you, Lady Charlotte. I trust the same can be said for you?” <br><br>He smiled at the good Doctor when he came over and after he had spoke, he remarked “Pleasant enough, good man, and yes let us pray that this weekend goes off without a hitch.” He then returned his gaze to Irina and as he did this he noticed behind her, in the hallway, another recognisable face. Well not a face as such as the man was wearing his familiar mask. So Barnabas was here. <br><br>Unaware at this point that he brought sad news, Tyler assumed that Lady Rowena had finally arrived. “Excuse me” he announced to the group as he stood and ventured to the hallway. As he walked he heard the hounds this time, but continued on in the direction of Barnabas. When close even to speak to the man, he smiled “I trust that Lady Rowena will be in shortly?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>19-09-2011, 13:10:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>The child makes a request.</strong><br><br>&nbsp;The ‘boy’ was lead in and this was although a little untidy and dirty was certainly healthy perhaps a little on the lean side, but certainly healthier than many of the children she had seen in London. ‘he’ was likely perhaps twelve or thirteen.<br><br>Once the child spoke it was more obvious that he was in fact a she. “Well Ma’am me Mam she says you are a real nice lady, she sometimes helps out in the house. The girl tilted her head and offered a smile. “I was wondering, if it’s …well let me see it’s a bit cheeky but I was wondering if there was any work.” She paused and smiled, “With my Mam being ill and all it’s a bit tight. I’ll work hard, and I have a knack with the outdoors.”<br><br>She shifted on her feet a little and then pushed her short hair behind her ear. Certainly this girl appeared very innocent and genuine. “My Mam’s name is Laura Summers…you might remember her.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>19-09-2011, 15:49:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Rowena speaks with the child</strong><br><br>Rowena was not entirely surprised to discover the lad was a girl it was often hard to distinguish between the common folk with regards to gender, specially in children where clothes where handed down and made do. She was surprised however by the child's confidence she wondered if there was motive behind it or if someone was forcing her to do such, her family most likely but then the story sounded plausible but how did this woman she mentioned know Rowena of course she was slightly famous in certain circles but she was not exactly advertising her presence here.&nbsp; <br><br><em>"I see well young lady, I am unsure how your mother knows of me or how indeed you knew I was here but I think we can come to some arrangement.&nbsp; I will pay for your upkeep and see to it that your mother receives the care required, I shall expect however for you to cease laborious activities and commit your self instead to a life of academic pursuits by bettering yourself you shall perhaps have the means to provide for yourself and your family in future. How does that sound then do you think you can commit to such a life ?"</em><br><br>Rowena was not entirely sure why the idea had occurred to her but she did not wish to brush the young girl off and refuse her, she did not want her hanging around either she was suspicious of the fact she had come to her. She had never really agreed with the idea of child labor either it seamed a rather ghastly practice and she was never sure who she despised more the families who sent there children to work or those who accepted them as employees. Rowena was sure she would never do such the idea was monstrous, and so with money to spend and invest she decided upon an investment in the young girls future still taking her away from her family perhaps but providing her with a better chance. Yes that was the intent to transform and change the child into something of worth, perhaps in future she could offer her actual employ if she needed it. If nothing else it would be something which would annoy her aunt and no doubt be a talk of gossip, she would not doubt prove a most interesting topic of conversation in future too perhaps one day even a fitting guest.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>22-09-2011, 15:57:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Dinner will soon be searved.</strong><br>Charlotte as always was more than happy to engage in conversation, and it seemed she knew how to behave in polite company or other, she was as a chameleon, it was those skills that had kept her alive for so long. Considering her other life… “Indeed I do hope there will be no repeat my good doctor; I may faint and need resuscitating. The Lady laughed then, though it was apparent that the inspector was not so amused, his face blanched a little. Whatever he had seen had obviously terrified him.<br><br>The inspector did however seem a little distracted. Still his was happy to drink a little sherry as it was offered around, though frankly he would have preferred absinth and a pipe.<br><br>“Goodness the dogs are rather noisy tonight…perhaps they too are excited about the event.?” Charlotte smiled again, keeping the conversation light, or at least as light as she could. Considering where they were. <br><br>Indeed most people here found a strange sense of foreboding. It was about that point that the Lord and lady seemed to come into view, they had been there all the time yet somehow over looked after the introductions. However now they were in full view. The Lord Robert Winterstone appeared somewhat pale and perhaps a little pasty however Malsika looked quite radiant and certainly drew the eye, even though she was a ‘darkie.’<br><br>It was of course worth remembering that Robert was not the direct heir, he was only looking after it until his nephew came of age…if indeed he did… reach maturity.<br><br>Everyone was welcomed then and of course a toast was made for his late brother, his wife was not mentioned, it was likely if the gossip were true she was in some asylum.<br><br>The two chatted with various guests in a most polite manner until dinner was announced. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>22-09-2011, 20:59:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler repeats himself</strong><br><br>Concerned that Barnabas did not respond straight away and starting to think that perhaps Rowena was not coming, Tyler repeated himself after a cough to try and catch the man’s attention. <br><br>“I trust that Lady Rowena will be in shortly?” <br><br>He would give the man the time to respond before he decided what he would do with his answer. <br><br><strong>Cooper gets bored and hungry</strong><br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div>Still curious as to what kind of dog could be making such a noise, but hungry, Cooper found his way to the servants quarters. The kitchen to his delight was not far and he soon found himself sitting at a large oak table being served a soup like stew that the Cook very kindly ladled out for him and the others that from time to time entered the room for either refreshment or indeed to collect things for whatever was going on upstairs. It tasted good and after the long sit he thought it would be nice to talk to one of them, but first he would finish his food or maybe one of them would talk to him first.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>22-09-2011, 23:36:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Barnabas turns to Tyler </strong><br><br>Barnabas did not respond at first to the Major's voice he did not recognize it at first and the mention of Rowena's name did not connect with it, he was to consumed with his thoughts and tending to his horse gently steadying the animal and petting it with a gloved hand. He figured that perhaps one of the Winterstone's had ignorantly misunderstood the clarity of the message in the letter and come out to pester him, when Tyler spoke again he turned but his annoyance was soon banished by the recognition. <br><br>It was clear Barnabas held some respect for the Major since his demeanor masked or not changed in an instant, that discipline kicked in and Barnabas shook his head solemnly as he dignified Tyler with a vocal answer even if it where a scarred and grating one. <em>"I am afraid that she will not be here at all Major."</em>&nbsp; He glanced around briefly making certain none where around to overhear him <em>"She did not see it as fitting to except the invitation given the circumstances of the last, She did remark that if I where to see you I should send her apologies and mark that it is not your company that she shuns." </em> Barnabas slowly reached to his pocked and took forth a small pad scribing an address upon it swiftly he tore free the page and folded it, before handing it over to the Major.<em> "I trust this will go no further." </em><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>23-09-2011, 13:05:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler speaks with Barnabas</strong><br><br>When Barnabas turned to acknowledge Tyler, he smiled. The smile soon went however upon being informed that Rowena would not be attending the weekend. He initially thought it was perhaps due to something he had said during their meeting at the tea room in Brighton, but that was soon dismissed when Barnabas explained that it was not he that she shunned. <br><br>Pleased that he did not offended her, he showed a weak smile to the man as he watched him write on a pad. When it was in his hand and before unfolding it, he spoke. “Thank you for informing me Barnabas and no it will go any further.” <br><br>He began to wonder if he should leave as there was little reason for him to stay. Yes he was here on behest of his father, like before, but his personal reason for being here was to see the lovely Rowena once again. He had not been able to speak with her father in regard to his feelings for the lady as of yet, so any chance he had to bump into her on an official occasion such as this was always welcome. <br><br>So with the paper in hand, he unfolded it to read what had been written. What would be written, he wondered as he began to read.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>23-09-2011, 13:43:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> The girl coninues to talk to Rowena</strong><br><br>The girl tilted he head again and her nostrils twitched a little, “Now that’s something I would have to ask my mam about it but I am thinking its something that is a good idea…”&nbsp; Her smile was there and remained, as she considered the opportunity, this girl was obviously bright but there was something more about here. Still she did have to check with her family.<br><br>“You’ll not expect me to work for this?” She knew that school could be expensive. She seemed to wonder what the catch was, though her real job was to be here and that was it, on any terms it would be fine.<br><br>“Me Mam says them in the Winterstone place are strange… you are not going there are you. She says they are a bad lot. I was told not to go there, I don’t want to be too forward and speak ill of my betters…” She paused for a moment again her ears twitching slightly, “But….” The girl stopped remembering her place. It did however seem that this Lady was as kind as her mother had told her.<br><br>There was another howl far off from the estate yet it carried on the air.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>23-09-2011, 16:18:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Barnabas excuses himself and bids farewell</strong><br><br>The note which Barnabas had written did not say much it was a simple address scribbled down on the paper, Barnabas bowed his head slightly before the Major and spoke once more as much as he disliked doing so. <em>“I shall bid you farewell then Major Tyler, perhaps we shall meet again if you have occasion to visit the Lady Rowena or the aforementioned address.” </em><br><br>Barnabas climbed up onto his horse and after a glance and nod towards the Major turned the creature and headed of, on his back from the Winterstone's estate he took the time to pause for a moment to attend to other orders. Writing a letter addressed to the Earl he informed in his usual short hand style the goings on of his daughter and affairs of the estate, sealing the note he headed for the local post office to see that it was on it's way before returning to the cottage in which Rowena was staying.<br><br><br><strong>Rowena speaks with the girl</strong><br><br>Rowena smiled pleasantly to the young girl as she stared over at her intently curious as to her brightness and the unusual manner of her call, <em>“Yes of course young lady quite right, it is something you should consult your mother upon.” Rowena nodded to the girl at her question “Oh no dear, you shall not work that is in fact one condition I will not move upon. You must devote yourself fully to academic pursuits and the betterment of mind and soul, you will be sent to the finest schools given the best attention and of course I shall check upon your progress from time to time although perhaps not in person. I will allow for some time for you to see your family at the end of each year of coarse.”&nbsp; </em><br><br>Rowena was certain that the girl probably did not entirely understand what Rowena was offering to her, she was sure she would have no idea of what Rowena would expect and that she may have some fanciful idea of how such might go. But she became distracted by the mention of the Winterstone's and regarded the girl again <em>“Your mother is right dear girl, and they are not your betters young lady. How do you know of them your mother does not work for them does she ?&nbsp; And please speak freely do not allow others to bind your tongue before me.” </em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>24-09-2011, 13:51:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> More talking with the girl and Rowena</strong><br><br>“I think my mam wont mind…” She was silent then when the ones at the other large house were mentioned, the ‘wrong ones’. “No heavens forbid my mam wont go near the place, I just know she has done a bit of work in your kitchens here, and my eldest brother has helped in the garden.&nbsp; All I know …” there was another pause as the girl seemed to think about it, “well all I know is they are a bad lot and there are folks …well that think the darkie is a witch.” There was all sorts of gossip going on with some staff, “And she is rarely seen unless its after dark.. Some of her servants have gone missing, and the Lord…well he is not a nice man like his brother…”<br><br>“I do know that the staff that don’t go missing are….” The girl seemed to consider the right word, well certainly the girls…they are odd.” She shifted on her feet, “The cook there is nice, but from what mam says she is looking for a new job, she does not like the mistress and she says there are ghosts there.”<br><br>Perhaps she was talking ill of those ones at the big house, but there was something very wrong there and the girl knew it. "You know that its not even Robert's house all of it belongs to the Old Lords son...and he's there, with them with his sister."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>26-09-2011, 00:42:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Rowena regards the girl with more interest</strong><br><br>Rowena looked to the young lady with more interest and curiosity as she spoke she let the girl continue awaiting for the point when the child seamed to have nothing more to say, she offered a slight smile to her and moved closer trying her best to consider the things that the child had spoke upon.&nbsp; <em>"Do you think your mother would know the names of these staff that have gone missing ? I would be most interested to know them, if you could find out for me I would be grateful of it."<br></em><br>Rowena smiled more as she looked down at the young lady <em>"This cook, if you or your mother happen to speak with her perhaps you may mention that she could find better employ here, I always like a good ghost story too so I am sure her talk of such would bother me none. Yes it is unfortunate what happened...who is there exactly with there sister ?"</em>&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>26-09-2011, 16:56:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler heads back into the house</strong><br><br>On the paper was an address, perhaps he would venture there after the meal was through, as he assumed it was from Rowena. Perhaps she was staying there and judging by him now having the information she clearly wanted him to go there. So on his way back to the house, he placed the note in his jacket pocket. <br><br>He was let back into the house and soon found himself settling back in his chair with Irina, Charlotte, Johnny and the good doctor surrounding him. “Sorry about that everyone.” With a sad face for affect, he continued to speak “It seems that Rowena will not be attending the weekend, so I think after eating I might retire for the evening, if that is alright with you all?” As he waited, he formulated a plan. He would wait until dark and with Cooper’s help he would sneak out of the house and venture to the cottage addressed on the paper. So feeling happy inside by showing signs of sadness to his company he took his glass and took a sip of the wine within. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>27-09-2011, 11:54:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>The Girl coninues to tolk to Rowena.</strong><br><br>“Not their sister Ma’am the lad’s sister, you know the real Lord…Michael.” The girl shook her head, “My mam says it’s a crying shame, they are nice children, and them loosing there da and their mam …and having to live with a witch.” There was a slightly uncomfortable pause, as she seemed to consider a few matters, as if she was working out just how much to tell, or perhaps searching her brain to find the names.<br><br>“I really don’t know the names of those that went missing but I might be able to find out. I think a lot are from other places you know not local girls.” There was another frown then, “My brother works there in the gardens he has been there since well since before the Lord died. He might be able to tell you something if you really want to know. Seriously Ma’am its not a good place. Its got worse too .My mam knows more so does my brother.”<br><br>“My Mam doesn’t gossip mind you…” Another pause passed “But you know she does hear things, and she is ever so sad about them kids…”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>29-09-2011, 10:57:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Charlotte makes polite conversation.</strong><br><br>Charlotte smiled at the Major as he returned, “So we will not be expecting the good lady Rowena tonight, well that is rather a shame, still I imagine she is a very busy woman.” That was said with no sarcasm. It was the truth the Lady was away of the others distractions and that would often mean that like Charlotte she could not always turn up for events.<br><br>“Well Doctor.” Her attentions returned back to Mark, “I am expecting you will be rather talented at shooting, after all you were India, I am thinking there were times where you had to shoot a few of those terrible heathens.”&nbsp; She glanced at the Major, and as for you good sire I am thinking you will put most of the men if not all to shame.”<br><br>The inspector remained quiet though still he was looking for something it seemed, and perhaps was a little distant a brief frown passed over his face, he would speak with Charlotte later. He excused himself for a moment politely and Malsika watched him pass.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>01-10-2011, 23:33:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark smiled politely, “I tended to those that had been shot rather than doing any shooting myself.” But what did a refined lady wish to know about such things? A man gasping in pain, blood oozing out between his fingers to clot in the dust such things where not for such ears.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Although I did quite a lot of shooting with the various Maharaja’s. They really know how to entertain, riding on the back of an elephant hunting tigers followed by a lavish meal and entertainment. And their palaces, vast displays of wealth, somewhat vulgar at times but truly a sight to be seen.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He smiled at her, “Maybe one day you should venture to India, it really is the Jewel in the Crown of the British Empire.”<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>02-10-2011, 00:42:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Rowena and the young lady and the distractions of the heart</strong><br><br>Rowena was slightly confused by the girl's talk and making sense of it all but then it was unlikely she was going to provide a clear view of things she was just a child, still it was all very curious the talk of witches and the children and the lord and ghosts no less. And that brought Rowena back to what she had been meaning to do, she had been so distracted of late she had not pressed herself fully into trying to uncover more. It was most alarming perhaps it was the intervention of her feelings an the charming Major, she smiled at the thought of him and found it slightly odd that she was not so upset about her lack of progress what was going on yet another mystery.<br><br>Rowena looked to the child and smiled <em>“Sorry my dear I was most distracted, what you say is very alarming indeed and quite right I shall not be going there don't you worry thank you for your warning and thoughtfulness.&nbsp; And if you pass on what I have said I shall see to it that you and your family don't go unrewarded for your kind thoughts of my well being and don't you worry none I shall not speak upon this with anyone.” </em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>03-10-2011, 08:47:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler talks with Charlotte and the others, whilst waiting for dinner</strong><br><br>Tyler drank his wine and before long it was refilled by one of the more attractive maids. He smiled at her as he listened to Charlotte addressing the good doctor. He smiled when she used the word heathen. The doctor's reply to a question interested him greatly. He had not be so fortunate as to be in the presence of the Maharajah, he had spent most of his bullets on the natives. However, the occasional tiger had been sent to its maker by the hand of his shot gun. <br><br>When Lady Charlotte's attention turned briefly back to the Major, to speak to him in regard to him putting the other to shame, he smiled in her direction and replied. “Well I do not wish to boast but in regard to your suggestion that I would put all to shame, you are probably right. However, I have to say that Cooper is more accomplished in that field. That said, I would imagine it would be quite impossible, giving his station, that he would be invited to such an occasion as this.”&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>04-10-2011, 04:27:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina listened to the conversation with a pleasant smile, occasionally interjecting with a polite comment and observing intently. They seemed to be pleasant enough and typical examples of upper-class British society. People like that lived in a world of such constant lies that they rarely noticed a few more when she slipped into their lives. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>06-10-2011, 19:23:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Dinner will be served.</strong><br><br><br>“Well of course he would not …but I am sure if you cannot find a partner he will reload for you.” Charlotte flirted a little but it was innocent she was well aware of the gossip of the major and a certain lady. “I expect though you prefer a lady to aid you in that respect. “ The woman chuckled a little.&nbsp; She was careful not to add that Johnny preferred a man to aid certain matters.<br><br>“Oh Doctor I have had a go at a tiger on a short trip to India with father, it was such fun, I missed it of course and shot a tree but it was enjoyable all the same.”<br><br>Johnny still remained quiet as he continued to concentrate on his surroundings, he was already aware of the raven and there was others here, or perhaps others that had been here. The Inspector was growing paler though snapped out of his thoughts as dinner was announced. <br><br>They were all lead through to a beautiful table and a sumptuous spread. Charlotte gave Malsika a smile as she passed. Behind the dark woman the gas lamps flared, this seemed to cause&nbsp; Lady Charlotte more amusement.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>07-10-2011, 11:34:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler addresses Charlotte and Irina in regard to who would handle his weapon</strong><br><br>Unable to answer Charlotte with a response before being led into the dining area, he waited until he was sat before speaking once again. To his delight he was sat near to the individuals that were chatting with him earlier so the conversation would be easily continued if need be. <br><br>The flaring of the lights briefly intrigued the Major. It was interesting to see that the lighting here was a sporadic as it was at their former property. <br><br>After he had taken in the fine spread that was before him, he addressed Lady Charlotte with a suggestive tone. With his deep feelings for Rowena there was little to no intent into what he said but as she had flirted with him, he felt no harm in returning the gesture. “Yes indeed, Lady Charlotte, a lady would be appreciated. I find that they work my weapon much more to my liking that a man could. Perhaps in Lady Rowena's absence you or indeed” he turned to look at Irina “Irina could cock my weapon for me?” Of course he had no intention of still be around for the shooting but just in case he thought he should make plans.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>07-10-2011, 15:07:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Downstairs with the servants( Cooper)</strong><br><br>Cooper was amongst the servants once more, it was somewhat different to that in the Town Winterstone abode. Though there was some fear there, here it seemed thick in the air. The maids certainly did not gossip as much as the others and they appeared nervous and always appeared to be on there toes. Occasionally his sharp hearing caught whispers in corners about some of the girls having disappeared. As well as one of the young stable hands…the pretty one…<br><br>There was even whispers of ghosts.<br><br>The man was brought his food and a glass of ale to enjoy. It was a slightly older maid that seemed to have been brought from the London house. She did not seem the type to take truck in young girl’s stories, but even she was nervous. Leaning close the woman spoke quietly then. “Watch your step here sir there …well there are things happening here. There are dangers I think. Much has changed sense the death of our former Lord.” <br><br>“I will make sure one of the girls organises your sleeping arrangements.”<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>07-10-2011, 16:21:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Dinner continues.</strong><br><br>Charlotte laughed, she found the major highly amusing with his almost shocking innuendo. She could see a couple of the other guests especially the ladies becoming a little flustered. “Oh my you are a terrible man major, you are quite making the poor inspector blush.” This was indeed true, he was far more sensitive it seemed than this fast lady.<br><br>“I am afraid that I shall be aiding our good inspector…perhaps Cooper might be the one that needs to aid your shot?” She laughed again and continued to nibble at the food, in a most lady like fashion. Her eyes often drifted to Malsika, as occasionally did the inspectors.&nbsp; The man was certainly distracted.<br><br>“Doctor…I was wondering do you have someone to help you, perhaps The lovely countess might be will if at present she has no partner. She smiled then at the woman, “Goodness I am already taking over. “Do any of you ride, I so hoping that we might get a chance to see the estate on horseback. I believe they own quite a few wonderful beasts here. Personally I like a fine stallion. So much more fun…” The woman chuckled again and sipped a little more wine. <br><br>Of course Charlotte knew she was treading a fine line but that was part of the joy of being at these events.<br><br>Malsika frowned at her but remained quiet, her husband chatted on rather banal subjects with some of the other guests.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>08-10-2011, 10:28:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper downstairs talking with the maid</strong><br><br>Dangers, he thought. Not here too. My goodness, why couldn't an invite for a meal be just that with the chance of a bit of fun with an innocent maid. Why did he always have to deal with trouble. <br><br>He raised an eyebrow at her suggestion that a maid could help him with his sack (of clothes) and then in an instant his expression turn from that to a smile. “Thank you for the warning good woman and be sure to introduce me to the maid that will assist me with the master and myself in regard to sleeping arrangements as I very much look forward to her company.” <br><br>Feeling a little naughty in general with the possibility of danger in the air, Cooper asked. “Might I suggest that I choose which maid, in order to save you the trouble?” <br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler eats and talks of beasts and thighs</strong><br><br>Seeing the shock and fluster in the faces of the other guests just amused Tyler and to be honest encouraged him. The worse thing that could happen here, he thought, is that he would be asked to leave and that was not a bad thing given that the good Lady Rowena was absent. So he continued on this game for now as by the look of things Charlotte was giving him enough fuel to feed the fire. Ride indeed and a stallion indeed, he thought with a smile. <br><br>He then glanced around the table at the ladies present and responded to Charlotte. He chuckled with her before replying. “Cooper I think will be indisposed shortly if I know my man correctly. So come on ladies who would like to reload my gun for me? I promise it will be completely painless and who knows you might enjoy it too.” While he waited for a volunteer not really caring if any of them would, he returned his full attention to Charlotte. “As for riding you can count me. Being an expert rider myself I can guarantee that there is nothing more liberating that having one of those beasts between your legs. The sheer power and strength that they exude reminds one of how weak we humans really arm.” He glanced around the room at all as he spoke of the mighty horse and took in all the reactions. Both at his suggestion of how weak people are in general and of course the&nbsp; innuendo itself. He would deal with whatever remark came back at him in his usual dismissive or jovial manner.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br><br>Seeing that his food was getting cold he began to eat, drink and be merry in no time. What an interesting mix of society, he thought as his eyes from time to time glanced around. Apart from the ones he had already spoken too, some he could see were heavily made up in a failed attempt to look ten years younger. All he could think about was if your teeth say fifty and your face says forty then fifty you are. Not to mention the hands. Some were so dry and wrinkly that he could only imagine how old they really were. <br><br>Seeing that Charlotte was showing an interest in the host, he then turned to Malsika and Robert. Neither had really gotten involved in much or any conversation. Was it because people were ignoring them or indeed that they did not wish to be involved in conversation. Well Tyler could not have reports getting back to his father of such rudeness towards the hosts so he addressed them both. “Tell me, how did you both come across such a fine house as this. I have not seen such finery in England before.”&nbsp; &nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>08-10-2011, 12:32:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>The girl and Rowena continue to talk</strong><br><br>The girl continued to watch Rowena as she was obviously distant for a short while she left her to those thoughts for a time. At least this woman believed her it seemed. But then this Lady had rather a reputation. The girls mother was one of those women that was likely the font of all wisdom of the area. As it was she had worked in many of the houses here as had her children. One would not call her a gossip she just listened a watched. <br><br>Not that the girl would admit it, though not as practiced at the art, she was certainly learning it. Just learning about people was the key. The girls nostrils twitched as did her ears. “I thank you ma’am and I will speak to my mother…about your thoughts…”<br><br>“Would you mind if she paid you a call ?”&nbsp; the girl paused tilting her head to the howl a smile passed her face. “She would call at the right entrance Ma’am.” An owl hooted and therwe was breifly a fluttering of wings.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>09-10-2011, 12:23:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Conversations continue.</strong><br><br>Charlotte took all of the Majors innuendo and only barely misted mischief well she found the whole interaction hilarious, and at least this time it was not her creating too much trouble. The Lady assumed her parents would be rather pleased about that. However pleasing her father was not a priority here. She and Johnny had work to do, and it certainly was not going to be easy to continue this investigation. <br><br>She let the major take over, of course he would not realise he was helping her but she certainly appreciated it. She continued to chat to both the Doctor and the Countess as Tyler engaged the hosts.<br><br>Malsika remained quiet know her place as a female, she seemed preoccupied with both Charlotte and the inspector.<br><br>“This place has been in the family for centuries, my good man, of course its like a number of our other estates. OF course many are only in keeping until my young nephew reaches a suitable age to become the Lord. I am merely little more than a care taker.”<br><br>The dark woman smiled after all she was not going to be just a caretakers wife. Her husband might have some wealth but they needed all of it if her plans were to come to fruition. The others in the City were starting to become suspicious, thus they needed to work quickly.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>09-10-2011, 18:56:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina gave a pretty little bewildered blink at the innuendo and ensuing titter laughter, pretending that the play on words went over her head. Privately, she was amused, though she was quickly coming to the conclusion Charlotte was the most dangerous one to her plans there. <br><br>"If any of the gentlemen need assistance, I would be very glad to help, though if they want me to load their gun, I fear they will find me frightfully slow," she replied pleasantly to Charlotte, giving Tyler and the doctor a nod. <br><br>Her eyes lit up brightly at the suggestion of riding, giving little hint she found it tedious unless it was merely a chance to show off her latest riding habit in Hyde Park. "Mmmm... Yes, I do enjoy a good ride..." she murmured with just a hint of suggestion in her voice. Perhaps the pretty widowed countess really did understand some innuendo?<br><br>She made note of everything said about the fortunes of their host's family, as well as any of the other guests.&nbsp; That was her purpose in being her, after all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>09-10-2011, 23:00:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark smiled, “One must be quick to reload, once the Tiger realises that it is being shot at it is away like the wind. Although on one hunt the Tiger did not flee, but rather it ran at the shooter and leapt. There was a great commotion let me tell you, the Elephant was most put out by the Tiger landing on it and let everyone know.&nbsp; The Mahout suddenly finding himself face to face with the Tiger let out such a screech and fell backwards off his Elephant.<br>Poor old Lord Smithers got into a frightful muddle with his gun trying to load it as his loader had leapt over the back off the Elephant.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He paused for dramatic effect, “If Major Cartwright had not put a bullet into the Tiger from his mount I think that the Tiger would have been hanging Lord Smithers head on his wall rather than the other way around.” He finished his little story and returned to his meal. The sexual undertones he quite well understood but feeling that was for the younger people refrained from joining in. <br>&nbsp; &nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sabriel</strong> on <strong>10-10-2011, 06:29:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Rowena responds to the young lady</strong><br><br>Rowena reaffirmed her focus upon the child watching her most curiously she seamed brighter than common opinion would have Rowena suspect, there was potential in her perhaps with her earlier offer perhaps the child could make something better of herself.&nbsp; Well that was unimportant now Rowena did not entirely believe the mother or her child would really go for the offer, it was indeed why she had suggested such since she suspected the girl was there to gather gossip and spy upon her. Although she suspected no ill intent she was careful and more suspicious of late, <em>"That is quite alright child, and you may tell her she may visit if she wishes.."<br></em><br>Rowena was about to continue and remark upon the entrance via which she approached being of little mind when she heard the flutter of wings, it made her glance in the direction it had come from and ponder for a moment but she swiftly dismissed it once more.&nbsp; <em>"I am sorry child but I must attend to my own affairs now, you may tell your mother what you wish and if would be preferable to your mothers health I will be happy to visit her."</em><br><br>Rowena reached for a bell used for signaling the servants of the house hold and gently rung it three times, awaiting upon her maid Rose to arrive she gestured to the child and smiled.&nbsp; <em>"Please see to the child Miss McMullock, make sure she reaches her home safely."</em> <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>10-10-2011, 11:54:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Helena aware of the weekend.</strong><br><br>The Children were asleep in bed, though Helena was aware that they did not sleep well however. Obviously loosing both parents and having to move house was bad enough. Their new guardians were certainly not nurturing. The fact the boy was to inherit the majority of the various estates that the family owned could be considered worrying. Especially considering Williams brother was ‘looking after’ them at the moment along with his wife, that darkie.<br><br>The children also spoke of the ghost….the gypsy boy too, as well as the raven and the black dog.<br><br>However tonight Helena was aware that&nbsp; Mister Cooper would be visiting with Major Harrington, and after seeing their coach arrive the governess would be aware that Cooper would likely be downstairs with the other servants, and while dinner was being served would likely be free for conversation. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>10-10-2011, 13:00:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler converses with Robert and Irina</strong> <br><br>The answer from Robert, while Malsika looked on, was informative but direct, Tyler thought. The man clearly did not wish to converse further with the Major. So Tyler smiled in response to Maliska’s smile and gave the man a slight nod as he explained the situation. It was then that Irina volunteered her services, so before returning his attentions back to the ones closest to him, he thought it proper to thank Robert. “Most interesting Robert. I am grateful for your clarification. Perhaps later we can converse more on the subject once the ladies retire. However, for now my attentions are needed elsewhere. I am sure you understand.” <br><br>He paused for a moment so to get a reaction from the man before turning to address Irina. He was about the respond when the good doctor spoke up. So Tyler listened to the story and remembered similar incidences while in India himself. When sure that the man had finished his address, Tyler returned his attention to Irina. <br><br>“Well don’t we both feel like the last ones picked for the dance” he joked. He then looked around for a moment before speaking once again. “Well if no one has any objections I would like it very much if you would, even though you claim to be slow, assist me with both choosing my weapon and indeed cocking it. Unless of course there is another who you would prefer to assist or indeed if there is someone who would prefer to be assisted by you? It would not be the first time I have had to cock by myself. My small book of lithographs will attest to that.” <br><br>The suggestive tone from her did not go unnoticed so in closing the Major felt it necessary to enquire. “Perhaps during shooting or on another occasion, if either happens before the horse riding we could discuss what it is that you enjoy so much about riding. That is of course if you have the time to humour me?” He smiled and as he did so he considered it was probably about time that he toned it down. The Major was finding it incredibly easy to slip in the odd innuendo and until asked not to it, it looked like he would have to self-edit. So the comment in regard to his lithographs and indeed the riding would be his last. He was not going to be comic relief for the masses and besides this was not the way he wished to present himself given his feelings for the absent Lady Rowena. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>11-10-2011, 03:48:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I would be honored," Irina replied with a smile, either totally oblivious or a good facsimile thereof. "Do you collect lithographs? My late husband had a very fine collection."<br><br>She nodded at his suggestion they pursue the topic of riding further and said, "I'm certain there will be opportunities to ride this weekend for those that enjoy the sport." Irina did not mind a little filtration and as a widowed foreigner, she could get away with rather more than a proper English lady could. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>11-10-2011, 09:52:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler converses with Irina</strong> <br><br>Delighted that he finally had a shooting partner, Tyler remarked with a smile. “Very good then. I am sure you will do just fine in regard to my weapon of choice and indeed reloading it in time for me to aim and fire at whatever it is that our host has organised for us to kill.” <br><br>He then tried to find the best way to respond to her enquiry in regard to his lithographs and indeed at the suggestion of finding time to pursue the possibility of riding, while he took in more of the delicious food. With the food now swallowed he spoke again. “Oh my lithographs. I have only a few and most of them are of the fairer sex if you understand my meaning?” he had promised himself that no more innuendos would leave his lips for tonight but this one was too hard to miss, so he thought one more would not hurt. “In regard to riding I am sure once you have found your stallion he will be more than accommodating to your needs.” Innocently, well almost, he concluded with. “I can help you chose if you like?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>12-10-2011, 02:59:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I learn quickly," Irina replied with a smile. "I am quite sure we shall manage well enough."<br><br>Her lips quirked in a smile as he clarified the matter of the lithographs. "I am sure my late husband would have appreciated your collection.<br><br>"I am sure you're correct.i may take you up on that..."<br><br>Deciding that was really enough by any standard, she asked, "Do you know when the hunt begins tomorrow?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>12-10-2011, 08:52:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler converses with Irina</strong> <br><br>Happy that he did not offend at his suggestion of the sort of lithographs he had in his possession, Tyler smiled "I am sure this weekend is more for sport than for competition so we should not worry in regard of who is the quickest or indeed the best. As you say I am sure we will manage.” <br><br>So she was going to take him up on his offer. He hoped that she had picked up the suggestive tone in fact he was sure she had. Could be an interesting few days after all he thought. If he were to stay and not sneak off in pursuit of Rowena. However, he had promised not to led anymore in regard to his innuendos so he did not comment on this but instead responded to the hunt in general. “I am not clear as to when the hunt begins. Perhaps that is a question for Robert.” As he said this he turned to the man and awaited a timetable.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>16-10-2011, 15:12:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Almost finished dinner</strong><br><br>Charlotte smiled knowing that at least one of the pair would not be able to be out in the morning, yes she and the good inspector might have to do a little investigating later. She might use the Doctor as her cover; he had seemed most interested in the mystery that had unfolded at the last event she had met him.<br><br>Robert mentioned that the shooting would begin in the morning but unfortunately his good lady would not be able to attend, as she had not been well, the same went for the riding. So be might find himself in need of a partner for the event. It was then Malsika dabbed her brow and made her apologies. The dark woman had obviously won most of the guests over, though for some reason there was a reason that people liked her.<br><br>There was another howl in the distance it was certainly eerie as it was now completely dark and the clouds here covered the moon. <br><br>The meal would soon be over and soon the ladies and gentlemen would part company for an hour or two.<br><br>The gentlemen would be heading to the Library and the Doctor was aware that apparently this one was most interesting on very many levels. Or at least he believed he had been told that at some point. As he considered it the man was sure her could hear the hurdy gurdy…just at the back of his mind. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>19-10-2011, 12:01:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=117841.msg5313900#msg5313900">Quote from: Cadavar on 08-10-2011, 10:28:13</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><strong>Cooper downstairs talking with the maid</strong><br><br>Dangers, he thought. Not here too. My goodness, why couldn't an invite for a meal be just that with the chance of a bit of fun with an innocent maid. Why did he always have to deal with trouble. <br><br>He raised an eyebrow at her suggestion that a maid could help him with his sack (of clothes) and then in an instant his expression turn from that to a smile. “Thank you for the warning good woman and be sure to introduce me to the maid that will assist me with the master and myself in regard to sleeping arrangements as I very much look forward to her company.” <br><br>Feeling a little naughty in general with the possibility of danger in the air, Cooper asked. “Might I suggest that I choose which maid, in order to save you the trouble?” </blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper makes a suggestion</strong><br><br>He looked around the room and too his delight there was a recognisable face. Bethany was her name but they had not been introduced so at this moment in time he did not know this. <br><br>“Perhaps she would be happy to service me? As she looks more than capable. Although I think I will carry the heavier of the bags as I fear they might break her should she try to lift them.” <br><br>He meant no disrespect in his comment he was simply being sensible as from the look of her anything heavier than a platter of food would be to much for her to bear. Besides if bag carrying was not her thing, Cooper could always find something else for her to do. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>21-10-2011, 00:13:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>-Bethany-</strong><br>While working at the downstairs, trying not to fail as the new surroundings were almost overhelming to her.<br><br>As<strong> Cooper</strong> moves toward her, she curtseys and stays on her place <strong>"Sir, good evening."</strong> Her tone leveled and she has no distinctive accent, as she was raised by the nuns allover the country. What comes to her physique, its clear she´s not build for lifting.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>21-10-2011, 08:56:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks with Bethany</strong><br><br>He smiled towards the maid. “No need to sir me my dear I am but a servant such as you. But I am grateful for the gesture, of cause, so do not be upset.” <br><br>As the bags were already in the room by now, Cooper suggested “I will need you to assist me with the unpacking of mine and the Major’s bags, once we are upstairs, as well as preparing the beds. If you have not been tasked in other duties? If you can I will show you were we will be sleeping.” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>21-10-2011, 23:39:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany with Cooper</strong><br><br><strong>"Sir.. I dont know your name, and your not of man of the cloth, so.."</strong> she lowered her eyes as trying to seek an right reply, but cant. "Please, sir, follow me and I show you where Major´s room is." After speaking, she hastly toke off, starting to climb the servants stairs.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>23-10-2011, 08:37:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks with Bethany</strong><br><br>He followed her up the stairs along the hallway and up another flight of stairs until they were on the correct floor. He wondered where Helena was, as he admired the young maid who was assisting him. <br><br>Realising his error, in regard to his lack of introduction, he waited until they were both outside the Major’s room before saying his name. “They call me Cooper, but you can call me Harry if you prefer. My full name is Harry Cooper and what should I call you, Miss?” <br><br>When the door was unlocked, he went inside and placed the luggage on the bed to open it. “This is the Major’s, he would like it to be neatly presented before he comes to bed and then it is on to my room for the same.” He smiled towards her as he said this. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>23-10-2011, 10:41:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany with Cooper<br></strong><br><strong>"Sir... I meen, Henry.. Im Bethany, just Bethany. Let me show you your room, and Il come back to put the Major´s cloths to their right places."</strong> she motions toward the door. <strong>"I think you were stationed with the stablehand as he´s an only bloke in the staff, besides the buttler. I´m sure you dont mind?"</strong> she asked, but her voice betrayed her nervousness, as she was with an new face and knew that she probably had failed him somehow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>24-10-2011, 08:15:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks with Bethany</strong><br><br>When she called him ‘Henry’, he raised an eyebrow. Well at least she did not call him Harold, like his mother used too. He did not correct her currently. Let her call him Henry if she liked after all she might be screaming his name in ecstasy once he had her alone, or not. <br><br>“Pleased to meet you, Bethany and yes I am sure that I will be quite comfortable wherever you put me. So please lead the way.” He was smiling when he replied to her question.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>24-10-2011, 11:21:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany with Cooper</strong><br><br>If she did understod anything of <strong>Coopers</strong> body language or his ´innuendo´ she didint show it. As she led the man to door to stablehands room.<strong> "Si...Hen.."</strong> she tangled<strong> "sir.. this the stablehands room, I´m sure you find it comforting." </strong>she curtseys hastily and was about to return to her works. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>24-10-2011, 16:43:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Cigars and Port in the Library</strong><br><br>The men sat around the table for a while, chatting as the ladies were shown through to more appropriate surroundings and conversation. Finally the men retired to the Library for more port and cigars. The men discussed guns and favoured weapons, a few spoke rather more primal matters now that the women were no longer there.<br><br>All sorts of hunting pursuits came into the conversation. Of course everyone offered condolences about the untimely demise of the new Lord’s brother though the subject was soon left as the poor man did not want to speak of it. The man appeared a little lost without his wife close though was still able to make polite conversation, and at least the cigar smoke was more flattering to his pale complexion.<br><br>The inspector seemed to slip out of sight for most, but he remained vigilant and just watched for now he was trying to just keep control of his own mind. There were so many threads here.<br><br>Passing a glance to one corner when he heard that damned music again the doctor was sure he saw a figure passing some of the books, yet when he looked again it was gone. Still there was something unnerving about this place. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>24-10-2011, 17:49:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper is shown to his room by Bethany</strong> <br><br>Satisfied with the accommodation, he turned to address Bethany, who seemed to be trying to return to other duties. “Wait,” he suggested with a slight commanding tone but with a warm smile “the Major’s unpacking still needs to be attended too. He likes it done a particular way so I will need to instruct at least before leaving you to finish.” He then moved to face the girl “Come” before leading back towards the room in which Tyler would be residing “I am sure we don’t have a lot of time as I would think that dinner is over by now and the Major likes to go to be bed early.”<br><br>He did not take her hand, he just assumed that she was following him. Once in Tyler’s room, his cases were laid out on the bed. So the first thing Cooper did was to unlock them, while he waited for Bethany to join him. Once alone in the room, Cooper promised to himself that he would do his best to remain professional but he did have the habit of letting his professionalism slip from time to time and perhaps tonight it would again.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler moves to the library for a little while</strong><br><br>With Robert’s explanation of how the weekend would pan out firmly lodge in his brain; Tyler bid his temporary farewell to Irina, Charlotte and the other ladies before he was encouraged to make his way to the library. He decided he would have one drink and make his excuses to leave. After all he imagined Rowena, if she was expecting him, would not wait forever. So once inside the room he lit a cigar and started on his first and only glass of port. <br><br>The topic unsurprisingly moved on to that of guns and weaponry in general and the death of William, the former lord and host. With his glass now empty, and his hand in his pocket touching the paper, given to him by Barnabas, outlining Rowena location, the Major stood and addressed the maid to his right would was about to refill his glass. “No my dear, I am afraid that I must retire. The whole day has been extremely exhausting. See to it that the others are informed.” Without anymore fuss the man stood up from his chair and made his way to the door. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>24-10-2011, 18:21:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany with Cooper</strong><br><br>As she was about to leave and <strong>Cooper</strong> commanded her to wait, she did so. She was going to get to <strong>Major´s</strong> room to finnish her chores, and when<strong> Cooper</strong> told about the <strong>Major´s</strong> wants, she was reliefed that the man helped her out.<strong> "Thank you sir, for instructing me. I meen.. I would not have knew how to present Majors clothes for him."</strong> She was tight lipped, and a bit intimidated by Cooper. <em>´Was he Major´s manservant or butler?´</em> Bethany worked the clothes neatly and with certain calmness, as if she were in her zone so to speak. It was so natural to her, so she was not confused, and there was soft smile on her lips while she worked.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>24-10-2011, 18:45:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper instructs Bethany</strong><br><br>Pleased at how polite she seemed when thanking him for his help, he watched as Bethany went to work and only instructed as and when needed. When satisfied with how she had performed, he went to the door to open it for her. Once at the door, he addressed her “Tell me do you have places to be or would you like to spend a little time alone with me before you go about your business? Perhaps a game of cards would interest you? As I have a pack in my jacket somewhere.” <br><br>Not waiting for a answer, but still more than happy for her to reply, be teased the door shut with one hand and went to his jacket with the other. The pack he pulled out was new and still in its wrapping, so he tossed it to her and asked “Would you be so kind to remove the packaging for me as I have not the nails for it? That is of course if you want to stay for a while?” He then went to sit on the floor by the bed and crossed legs to see if she went to join him. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>24-10-2011, 18:55:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany and Cooper</strong><br><br>She was taken back, when <strong>Cooper</strong> asked her and closed the door, but before she got words from her mouth, she had an pack of cards in her hands, and she was opening the wrappers.<strong> "S..sir.. I have never played cards.. it was .... not..there was no cards in the Nunnery.."</strong> she kept her eyes down casted and offered the opened stack of cards to <strong>Cooper</strong><strong> "Here you are Harr.. Sir.."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>25-10-2011, 08:35:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper plays with Bethany</strong><br><br>With the door locked so that no one would disturb and the cards unwrapped, Cooper tapped the floor next to him for Bethany to join him. “Come, sit next to me and I will show you.” He firstly shuffled the cards and then explained the game they would be playing – 7 card stud. <br><br>“7 Card Stud is a high card game. More winning hands are decided by the highest pair of two pair or just the highest pair, than by straights, flushes and other big hands. So if you start with a straight or flush draw, it should have at least two high cards or at least one card that is higher than anything up on the board. These draw hands and low pair starting hands need to improve or turn a high pair quickly to justify continued play. Any time your high hand is beaten on the board, fold, unless you think you still have the best draw hand.” <br><br>He smiled at Bethany realising he was probably using words that she did not understand. “Do not worry, come closer and I will show you or indeed we will figure it out as we go along, alright?” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>25-10-2011, 10:16:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany with Cooper</strong><br><br>She found herself sitting by<strong> Cooper</strong> on the floor totally confused by the cards, rules and the situation.<strong> "Sir.. What if Major enters? This is unaccetable for me..us to sit on the floor like halfwit children.." </strong>Tone of her voice told she was actually scared of something and it was becoming clear to Cooper, that Bethany was not ´all there´. She was ...slow.. to put it mildly. She rubbed her knuckles without thinking it, as she tried to raise.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>25-10-2011, 11:43:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>The Ladies in the Drawing Room.</strong><br><br>The room had been transformed during dinner and now had a far more feminine feel as was appropriate, of course the ambience had been created by those that were invisible. Attractive flower arrangements and sweet cadies and sugared fruits had been placed in various places, some of them just to tease.<br><br>Also some of the artefacts mostly the jewellery&nbsp; from the night at the rather unfortunate event were on display. <br><br>The majority of the ladies fawned over them and Malsika smiled even suggesting that some of the ladies might like to try some of the pieces on. Charlotte it appeared avoided the request and even as she did there was a flare in the gas lamps, which again upset the dark woman.<br><br>The conversation was polite, though there was gossip. Apparently the Lady Rowena had been seen walking out with Major Harrington. Lady Bartham was apparently having women’s troubles but was seeing a rather fetching doctor. Also Lord Featherwhite was apparently stepping out with another lady much younger than himself, and only a few moths after the untimely death of his wife. Apparently Captain Lewin of the Queens own was to marry and american...now that really was rather shocking. The man had quite a reputation.<br><br>&nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>25-10-2011, 18:05:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper plays with Bethany</strong><br><br>“Do not worry yourself, my dear as I have already locked the door and besides the Major, to my knowledge, has not as yet been informed as to where his room is.” He smiles to reassure her that she is quite safe with him, even with the door locked. <br><br>Seeing her confusing when he was explaining the card game, he suggested “Perhaps you would be a little happier on the bed? Much more comfortable I find.” Seeing her rise, he did the same after picking up the cards and placed them back in his jacket pocket. “Perhaps cards is not for you, my dear. There must be something else we can do to pass the time?” <br><br>It was then to his surprise and mild frustration that he heard a knock on the door, so his plan to get to know this maid a little more would have to wait. “Well my dear it seems we will have to conclude this another time. Perhaps I can assist you with your duties as someone is clearly either looking for you or indeed looking for me.<br><br>He opened the door and another maid came in that was much more mature with some laundry. She suggested that Bethany, with Cooper if he had the time, should finished up here quickly and re-task themselves in the library as there was plenty to do there. Happy to go wherever Bethany went, Cooper nodded in acceptance and waited to see what Bethany would do next.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>25-10-2011, 18:16:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany with Cooper<br></strong><br>She was about to sit on the edge of the bed, when there wa knocking on the door, and as the older maid entered, she curtseyed to her and as she had an task for her and <strong>Cooper</strong>, she thanked her and moved toward the library, still confused by the attention<strong> Cooper</strong> was giving her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>25-10-2011, 21:18:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper walks with Bethany and enters the library</strong><br><br>He walked with Bethany to the library and once inside he let his new friend attend to the men’s needs and from what he saw some but not all seemed to enjoy her tending to the drinks and cigar administration along with anything else that they required. <br><br>By this time the Major looked as if he was about the leave the room but he stopped upon the entry of his man and took Cooper’s arm and asked him to wait for him by the door as he was considering retiring soon and wanted his man ready to assist him as was expected. Cooper nodded in acceptance as he watched protectively over Bethany as she went about her business. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>27-10-2011, 08:16:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>In library</strong><br><br><strong>Bethany </strong>served the quests as ordered by the older maid. She felt more stable here, where everything was normal to her. Soon she didint even bother the stares some of the men gave her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>29-10-2011, 06:17:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina was content to linger in the background as the ladies fawned over the jewelery and nibbled sweets. She took everything she saw and heard in with the intention of making use of it later. She loved gatherings like this as an opportunity to listen to gossip and consider her options. <br><br>She eventually drifted close to Maslika, giving her a pleasant smile and saying warmly, "Dinner was lovely tonight." There was much to be said for polite conversation as a way to draw someone in. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>30-10-2011, 12:45:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany being taken to the drawing room with the ladies.</strong><br><br>The men continued to talk, ignoring the staff as was appropriate, well at least trying too after all this was a somewhat attractive young lady. Once the older maid however saw the attention that she was getting she ushered her into the room with the ladies. Really it was to protect her. Little did the older maid know that the most dangerous creature in the house lurked in there.<br><br><br><strong>The ‘countess’ with Malsika</strong><br>Malsika smiled at the Countess, <em> Now this was a strange one, something useful <br>&nbsp;perhaps </em> It appeared this woman did not have similar thoughts&nbsp; many of the others in the room. Most useful indeed. Something this supposed countess did not know was that the lady that she was speaking to was more than a little dangerous. Why would she though for Malsika seemed to have a way about her, something compelling. I thank you very much for the compliment, and I hope you enjoy the rest of the weekend. I believe much entertainment has been planned.”&nbsp; The dark woman spoke with a slight accent, yet much less than one would expect.<br><br>Again in the distance there was howling.&nbsp; Malsika rolled her eyes, “I do wish the Gamekeeper and his staff would take more care of the dogs…but I am sure you know what it is like.”<br><br>It was then a gunshot echoed across the grounds.<br><br><strong>In the Library with the gentlemen.</strong><br>There was still the sound of howling that the Lord appeared to be ignoring it or at least trying to. Then was the sound of a gunshot was heard. He spoke then&nbsp; a little louder than before. “We have been having some trouble with local poachers I am afraid…nothing like the sound of a gun to scare them off.” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>31-10-2011, 00:19:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I look forward to it," Irina replied with a smile. She found her hostess very pleasant to be around, which wouldn't necessarily stop her from trying to take advantage of her, but certainly made it more pleasant. <br><br>She nodded as Malsika spoke about the dogs and replied, "Yes, I've heard them howling quite a lot. I wonder what has them riled. My husband always said that dogs knew more than humans about certain things..." It was said in genuine innocence, merely as a way to direct the conversation the the foibles of canines and husbands, both of which Lydia regarded in pretty much the same way -- useful, but usually more trouble than they were worth&nbsp; -- though her persona as Irina had a somewhat higher opinion of men. <br><br>She jumped as she heard the gunshot. "Perhaps that was it... I hope no one was hurt..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>31-10-2011, 09:19:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler sends his man away</strong><br><br>While Cooper watched as Bethany left the room, as instructed, the Major turned to Cooper once again. It was then that the gun shot was heard and the weak explanation as to why it had been used. Tyler instructed his man “Go and investigate, would you? As I do not want to be delayed in my departure… sorry retirement and I certainly do not want a repeat of the last time. Cooper nodded and left the room to venture outside. <br><br>Tyler then acknowledges the host. “Absolutely, poachers can be a real pain sometimes. I have sent my man out to assist. I hope you do not mind? I will also be retiring soon so could you please have someone escort me to my room as I have not been shown to it as of yet?” He smiled at the host while he waited to be attended too. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>31-10-2011, 18:18:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany in the drawing room with the ladies.</strong><br><br>As the gunshot was hear´d&nbsp; she jumped lightly, as she had never hear´d gunshot before. She looked at the other servants, as trying to see their reactions, of how to react.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>04-11-2011, 15:22:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Gunshots with the Gentlemen, and Cooper&nbsp; leaving</strong><br><br>Cooper was more than capable of taking himself outside to see what was happening. After the events of the Mummy Unwrapping who knew what would happen. Certainly there was something a foot, a couple of the other gentlemen suggested that they might also see if something was a foot or at least would send one of their men with Cooper.<br><br>It seemed the Lord was a little nervous though he for the most hid it, after all it really was just poachers…yes that’s all it was, Malsika had told him as much. He had more to deal with than a few dogs, his plan would surely still come to fruition. He then began to engage the gentlemen once more in conversation, offering more port and cigars.<br><br>It appeared however that the inspector was a little agitated, but for other reasons. It seemed there was going to be yet more to investigate in this most intriguing turn of events.&nbsp; He knew he needed to find Charlotte…and find away to join Cooper. It was then he turned to the doctor. “Perhaps we should join the Major’s man, after all you have a good deal of medical experience …who knows what is happening.” <br><br>There was another gunshot and a howl that was certainly louder and closer.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>05-11-2011, 12:40:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper ventures outside with pistol in hand</strong><br><br>Not happy to be without Bethany, Cooper hoped he might catch her in the hallway before venturing outside, but with no one around, of the female persuasion, he sighed and went outside. <br><br>He was not alone, naturally, as some of the others had followed the Major’s suggestion. It was dark obviously and due to this Cooper could see very little. He was not fazed by this as he had been in worse situations. Well at least he thought he had as he had been in similar situations in India and indeed Ireland, most recently. <br><br>He had no idea of the situation outside and had only gone into the dark on the Major’s suggestion, who had sent him in an attempt to show that there was nothing to be concerned about, but in truth there was plenty as the cold of the night began to bite at his trigger finger.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>05-11-2011, 13:12:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>The Ladies become a little troubled </strong><br><br>The majority of the ladies become a little shocked at the sound of the gun; of course the servants that were in the room were afraid however as this had been becoming a little more regular than it should be they were able to remain calmer.<br><br>Malsika spoke “We have been having some trouble with what….what are they called …poachers, also my husband is worried about thieves and all his finds. Being stolen.” Her voice was as honey even with the accent she bore. It appeared many of the women were warming to her. Charlotte on the other hand was certainly not. <br><br>However there were matters that needed to be dealt with. There was the matter of the children, and whatever was going on outside. She knew that it was important to see who and what was out there and to speak with Johnny. It certainly appeared that the new Lady Winterstone was upping her game plan. <br><br>So far most of the investigations that were happening in London had yielded little, but the City was close to crumbling at least for many of the factions. The first major domino had been at the unwrapping. <br><br>Drinking a little more cordial Charlotte feigned a headache very well and suggested the long journey had rather taken it out of her. Malsika narrowed her eyes a little but there was little she could do other than let her go to her room. The dark woman regretted yet again inviting the witch, however for social standing it was important, as well as finding out just how much she knew.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>05-11-2011, 18:05:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany, with the rest of the womanfolk</strong><br><br>As the second gunshot was ringing and someone spoke of poachers, she eased up a bit, as the lord of the manor was clearly taking care of the ruffians and the elder women were not alerted by all this. Both reasons cave her courage and she continued to serve them, and as she moved around the room, she found herself standing by the window, peeking into the darkness.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>13-11-2011, 19:34:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany at the window </strong><br><br>Out of the window Bethany can see a little as there are gas lamps outside. She is sure she can see a few shapes but they are not clear, there is even perhaps a Lady but surely it cant be as they seem to be holding a cigar.<br><br>Again there is another howl and the figures seem towards it into the distance though whoever it is with cigar remains where they are.<br><br><strong>The Gentlemen outside </strong> <br><br><br>Cooper joins a few of the men and briefly catches site of the Lady Charlotte outside, obviously taking air though she is actually smoking a cigar and appears to be waiting for someone. From her posture she appears nervous.<br><br>The inspector came close to Cooper and took his hand with the gun in it, “Now is not the time. Trust me I know. Choose your battles…” He looked at him then with sadness in those dark eyes. “There will be many to come I think.”<br><br>As he spoke a large dog passed and there was another gunshot. Then there was a cry of pain as if someone had been hurt. It was not too far away, and Cooper smelt blood in the air, though it was some distance away. Any of the other men there could tell that this was more than just poachers.<br><br><em> OOC any characters are more than welcome to join in what is happening.</em><br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>14-11-2011, 18:00:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper puts his weapon away</strong><br><br>Paying no interest in what Lady Charlotte might be doing, he continued the walk into the dark night. He would most likely mention it to the Major, who might be interested in what she was doing as by all accounts he know the Major respected her a great deal but there were more pressing things in Cooper’s mind and that involved the noises in the dark. <br><br>When the inspector grabbed his hand, he welcomed it. His finger was now so cold that he thought if anything were to jump out the finger would be useless and the gun a hindrance. He would do better with his fists in close combat anyway. “Of course, you are right Inspector.” He then put the gun away and feeling soon returned to his hand. He clenched his fist to reassure himself that it would be of use and now happy, he smiled at the man and then the gunshot followed after the large dog and Cooper moved in the direction of where he thought the blood smell was emanating. He had know clue if the direction was correct so he walked slowly just in case someone else had a better idea as to it origin.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>14-11-2011, 18:27:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Bethany by the window</strong><br><br>She kept watching what was happening out there. It was exciting to see <strong>Cooper</strong> and the Inspector punishing those pouchers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>14-11-2011, 23:30:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A fine cigar, a glass of port and decent conversation that was the way to spend the evening in the Doctor’s opinion and he had been looking forward to it. Not standing out here watching dogs running past and hearing gunshots.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“It seems that the poachers might be fighting back. Odd that must criminals prefer to run rather than fight after all hit a game keeper and you will have an appointment with the hangman.”&nbsp; It was most unsettling standing here, every now and then he was sure that the shadows where moving wrong.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark tilted his head, there was that dammed music again, where was it coming from?<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>20-11-2011, 12:03:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Not a good start to the weekend.</strong><br><br>Charlotte it seems disappears into the shadows of the various out buildings, whoever she was meeting remained for the most unseen, though whoever it was very tall, though that could have been the shadows, for the moon and the gas lamps can often make ones eyes play tricks and deceptions.<br><br>The inspector appeared nervous as he looked to Cooper and the Doctor, some of the other male staff and guests were also there. However no one really wanted to leave the women alone in the house. So those such as the major remained inside. In the room with the ladies it seemed Malsika was tense, though was hiding it rather well, only the most empathic would know.<br><br>It always seemed that so many were trying to upset the plans of both her husband and herself. Also those damned dogs were creating trouble, if only she could curse the whole of there race…She did believe those that were getting to close to the truth would die, including that witch and her pretty friend.<br><br>“Ladies shall we perhaps partake of a little more cordial, or perhaps even something stronger, as the gentlemen are not here and we have had a scare…”<br><br>Again outside there was two more gunshots and a howl, however it was more distant, with some investigation from the men two bloody bullets were found, and in the moonlight one might be sure that they were silver.<br><br>That music continued in the doctors head though it was joined with muffled words this time.<br><br>The gamekeeper and a number of other male servants returned to let everyone know the threat was over. In the shadows a limp body could be seen being taken to the stables.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>21-11-2011, 16:24:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper ventures back</strong><br><br>Unsure if his shot had even hit anything, he was soon informed that the fun was over, so he sighed in relief that he had survived the night up until this point and made the slow walk back to the house. <br><br>As he walked he observed that something was going on over at the stables, so unless he was told not too, he changed direction to investigate this a little more. <br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler guards the door leading to the ladies</strong><br><br>Seeing as Cooper followed his instruction, the Major saw no reason to hang around, so he left the library and ventured into the hallway. If anything came into the house and tried to scare the ladies he would shoot it down and ask questions later. <br><br>So there he stood in the hall, looking as casual as he could with his hand within his jacket pocket no more than an inch from his gun, wishing he could just leave and run off to see his Rowena. “Damn and blast” he muttered to himself as he started to pace the hallway. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>22-11-2011, 23:35:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Silver Bullets and conversations in the dark.</strong><br><br>Charlotte continued to discuss matters in the darkness with the tall figure, as Cooper watched on he could see a smaller figure at his its side. This other figure looked more like a child in size. If they were aware of the approach of the man they did nothing and continued to speak, though he would have to gat closer into the shadows if he wanted to hear properly. <br><br>Most of the other men had gone back into the house, as the call of more cigars and attractive young maids and brandy was far more enticing now. The doctor found himself offered one of the bullets and he had the choice to return to the warm<br>of the house or investigate further.<br><br>Cooper still only caught snippets but there were perhaps a few more pieces to the puzzle.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>“You …be careful Lottie, you… and inspector…” the voice was accented and deep, had he heard it before.<br><br>“We …fine…” Charlotte’s voice answered. “You …wounded? Or still fr…before.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>23-11-2011, 23:48:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark took the bullet and moved to the light to examine it further. Two things where odd about it, one that it was a .303 rifle bullet by the look of it. He had dug enough out of soldiers to recognise one even distorted by impact. Which was odd, the gamekeepers normally carried a shotgun not a military rifle. Just what kind of game had they been intending to bring down?<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Which made the other thing more intriguing, rather than being the normal metal the bullet was made of silver. An expensive way to make bullets unless you where hunting Werewolves. That was ridiculous thought in this age of scientific reason and logic.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Looking up from the bullet he walked over to the small cluster of people. Bouncing the bullet in his hand, “Silver bullet, I thought we where shooting birds not. “He laughed, “Werewolves, or has some body been reading too many of those penny dreadfuls.”<br>&nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>24-11-2011, 06:36:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Growing a little nervous by this point, Irina replied politely, "A bit of cordial would be lovely, thank you."<br><br>She did not know what was going on, but it was very strange and she intended to find more, if only so she could avoid trouble. It was also the sort of thing she knew she might be able to take advantage of and she had to understand it for that. <br><br>Liqueur would not help with that, but a few sips wouldn't do any harm. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>24-11-2011, 13:41:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper ventures closer into the shadows</strong><br><br>Alone now as Cooper continued to make his way to the stables, he stopped some way off and watched. Was that a child he saw with the adult figures? <br><br>He could hear then speak but it was too far away to make out much of the conversation, so Cooper decided to get closer and by doing so try and not be seen by any of them. As he ventured forward he was sure he recognized some of the voices but he was not sure from where. <br><br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler ventures outside</strong><br><br>Still pacing and trying not to wear out the carpet, Tyler turned to the front door upon the noise of a group of individuals approaching the house. To his relief it was the ‘hunting party’ returning from outside. He smiled at them and was intrigued to see that amongst other Cooper was not among them. So he waited for them all to go back into the library before venturing outside to see if he could spot the man. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>27-11-2011, 18:38:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Dreadful pennies and offers.</strong><br><br>Mark was able to keep the silver bullet in his hand; the young inspector heard his comment and chuckled a little, “Just werewolves …what about vampires…” The man smiled after all were vampires not affected by silver too it said so, in one of those ‘silly publishing’s’. Of course the man was aware of more but it was not something one wanted to be too obvious. It did appear though that this doctor had a good deal about him and might be useful to the Yard and yet further. As it was something told the young man that Mark would be important…<br><br>“Not that I want to be forward…” he paused then…”Thing is I expect you have a good practice, but the Yard is always looking for folks such as yourself, I hear you were in the military. Perhaps we can talk when things calm a little.” He did had over a card though, hoping that the doctor would bite.<br><br>They made there way to the house, the inspector turned his head to the shadows, waiting to see which way the Doctor decided to go.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>27-11-2011, 21:22:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Vampires?” Mark laughed at the inspector’s comment, “Wooden stakes through the heart and Garlic in the mouth is the recommended method of dealing with those or so I believe.” He smiled. “And my dear old grandmother used to say walk three times anti clockwise around a fairy mound and a door would open. Enter and you would dance with the Fea whilst the years passed. But this is the time of scientific enlightenment and such things are for children on a dark night.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He slipped the bullet into his pocket and looked curiously at the Inspector, “Yes I served in the Indian Army and have a modest practice now.” He took the card, “Working for the police you say, no harm in coming to talk to you about it I suppose when we get back to London.” He added the card to the bullet lready in his pocket.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Once inside Mark rubbed his hands, “What do you say to a brandy, warm us up?”<br>&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>29-11-2011, 17:32:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Lady Charlotte having a quiet smoke</strong><br><br>Cooper was able to get closer to the small group talking in the shadows he was now sure that the tall male was the dark man from the party, or rather the blood bath but a few months before. The small figures voice he certainly did not know but they seemed to have a local accent. Of course he recognised the voice of Lady Charlotte he was also sure he had head a similar tone at the opium den…<br><br>“Look you have to take care…you know what the witch is going to unleash…”<br><br>“I know…well not entirely but we need to find out her plans…they are deeper and more insipid?”<br><br>“Have you been in touch with London?”<br><br>“A little…but I think he has plans for the children…that remain here…” there was a little whispering<br><br>Charlotte walked out of the shadows the, and whoever she had been speaking too seemed to disappear. Into the shadows, the last words were something to do with the man in the stables.<br><br>The Lady lit up a cigar and smiled, “Well Mister Cooper …taking the air?” The handsome young woman blew a smoke ring, and chuckled “It seems we always meet under such interesting circumstances do we not?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>29-11-2011, 20:05:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> brandy and darkness</strong><br><br>The inspector carried on and gave a nod to Charlotte and Cooper as he headed towards the house. “Why I took up her invitation I will never know…” Once inside the house the inspector took the offered brandy though certainly he would rather have taken the numbness of the pipe so he might find a little more and then fall to the oblivion of the embrace of the dragon.<br><br>Speaking quietly in the drawing room the inspector took Mark to one side as he drank the brandy and then another. “Things are getting dark in London and I think will become darker…I seriously think the Yard would appreciate your help. “ There was a pause “Here too I think there is trouble brewing… perhaps we can meet later?” For some reason the young man trusted the doctor though even now he saw the shadows encroaching on him. "Perhaps a little investigation?"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>29-11-2011, 23:58:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark swirled the brandy around in the glass, watching the gold of it in the light from the fire. He listened to the inspector aware of the faint music in the background. Ignoring the music as he had been for a while he thought about the inspector’s words.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Getting darker, that may be true one hears rumours and servants do gossip.” Mark smiled, “Not that I am one to listen to servants gossiping but, “he shrugged, “One overhears as it where.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He drank the brandy feeling the warmth of it spreading through his body. “Well there certainly does appear to be strange things occurring, the howling and the gunfire for example.” Mark nodded, “Of course as any good Englishman would be I am only to happy to help the authorities when ever I can. When ever you are ready come and get me.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>30-11-2011, 12:20:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>The night is drawing to a close.</strong><br><br>It appeared that the majority of the gentlemen had returned to the house and the scare was over or at least for the most. There was no more howling and there had been no more gunshots for some time. However many of the ladies were still a little upset, some more than others, a couple even pertained to a fainting fit, or a touch of the vapours.<br><br>Bethany was sent to get smelling salts for those that needed it, though it appeared that a number of the other women wished to retire to their chambers bringing the evening to rather an abrupt ending. Still they would have to be up early in the morning to be ready for breakfast and then a ride around the estate. Of course horses had already been marched to the rider and their competence, there was quite and art too it and the stable hands and stable master knew his job well.<br><br>Already some of the gentlemen escorted their respective partners whether they be mistresses or wives. Also a few of the gentlemen had indeed arranged meetings with some of the more appealing maids while their wives were asleep. There was nothing unusual in that, and of course every one was placed in an appropriate room. One of the gentlemen a rather older man did enquire if Bethany was free when her chores were finished. <br><br>In time the ‘countess’ was shown to her chambers which were indeed most lavish and pleasant everything had been prepared for her as one would expect for one of her station Everything appeared in order, yet there was almost a chill in the room, even though the window was closed, or at least seemed to be. However the curtain billowed a little and the woman was sure she could catch the sound of crying from within the wardrobe.<br><br>There was a tapping on the window then…if she looked out she could see a huge dog loping across the grass beneath the moonlight. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>30-11-2011, 16:02:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>The Inspector and the Doctor continue to talk.</strong><br><br>The young inspector continued to sip his brandy as some of the gentlemen started to disperse to their various chambers and bedrooms. Of course Mark had already seen his and it was more than adequate for his needs.&nbsp; Should he wish it would not be surprising to find a young member of staff to service any other needs.<br><br>However ‘Johnny’ kept the doctors attention. Perhaps if we retire and meet perhaps in two hours time, I would think most people will have retired, and also any that have not will likely not want to be seen moving about the house…” He was sure the Doctor was a man of the world and knew exactly what he was talking about.<br><br>“So we could meet in the hallway?” as it was before he was going to do any investigating Johnny knew he needed a fix, and he might try to speak to Charlotte. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>30-11-2011, 16:39:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>-Bethany-</strong><br>Being kept in the dark, of what those ´late night services´entitle, she said to the eldery gentleman, that her shift would end soon. Other maids knew exactly what was to become of her and were laughing behind her back, something she didint notice at all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>01-12-2011, 05:55:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Neither Lydia nor the Countess were the fainting sorts, though there had been enough oddities in the night that she was a little spooked, especially hearing what seemed to be the sound of crying coming from the wardrobe. Surely it was a trick of perception<br><br>At first thinking the window was open, Lydia moved to close it. Finding it closed, she gazed out for a moment, considering the moonlit darkness and assuming the fluttering of the curtains was merely a draft from a badly sealed window. Her eyes widened slightly as she saw the large dog -- or could it be a wolf? -- loping across the grass. She doubted it was a wolf, not in civilized England. <br><br>Finally, she moved to the wardrobe and threw it open, knowing she wouldn't be able to sleep until she'd satisfied herself that there was nothing there beyond her clothing. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>02-12-2011, 21:15:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> All does not seem well</strong><br><br>The closer that Lydia drew to the cupboard the colder it seemed to become sending a shiver down her spine, almost as if something ran its icy fingers down it. The shadows in the room seemed to dance as her lamp light flickered; the whole room somehow seemed to have an unnatural to it. I was certainly most unnerving.<br><br>The cupboard was indeed empty but appeared darker inside than it should be and even the clothes appeared to move as the light created such strange illusions. It was dreadfully cold here, the curtain billowed behind the woman again. This house seemed to have something most foreboding about it. Was this place also cursed by the mummy? Had it followed the remaining members of the family?<br><br>&nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>03-12-2011, 05:20:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lydia did not believe in curses, mummies, magic or gods, but there was something inescapably disturbing about this place that she was struggling to set aside as mere fantasies brought on by too many stories and the draft behind her. <br><br>The wardrobe was as empty as she'd expected, though somehow it seemed too dark, the shadows almost solid in their inky blackness. Lydia found it very disturbing, though she could not say exactly why. Somehow, her mental insistence that there was nothing dangerous in these shadows, not in the safety of a noble manor, seemed awfully hollow to her. <br><br>Frowning, she turned to see if there were any more lamps or candles to light. It would do her no harm to have more light while she undressed for bed. Given the chill, she found herself looking forward to sliding into bed and hoping there were enough blankets to keep her warn. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>05-12-2011, 18:45:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper listens from the shadows</strong><br><br>He did not stay long or indeed as long as he wanted to as his name was called from the main entrance of the house, so he ventured back trying not to be seen. It was Tyler voice that broke his concentration and soon the whispering in the night was forgotten. <br><br>When he had got within a few feet of Tyler, he noticed that the man was for want of a better word looking very impatient. “Everything alright Major?” Cooper asked with curiosity. The Major said nothing as he took the man’s arm and escorted him back inside. <br><br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler makes his way to Rowena</strong> <br><br>Now back inside, Tyler spoke “I wish for you to make my excuses, if asked of course. Tell them I have gone to bed. I of course will be heading out in a moment to seek out Rowena.” Cooper nodded and went to collect the Major’s coat. When ready, Tyler walked to the stables to acquire a horse from a more than helpful stable master and upon mounted the beast, he made his way to the farm house. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>06-12-2011, 16:59:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>the major has a horse, charlotte has a cigar, and Cooper can have a whatever he wishes.</strong><br><br>Major Harrington had no problem at all sorting out a horse. Copper had chosen well the beast was a dark gelding that looked impressive yet was a calm beast that would not be easily spooked, something that would be important given all that seemed to be happening of late and even this evening.<br><br>As he went to the stables the major was sure he saw Lady Charlotte, the glow of her cigar lit up her handsome face. The woman gave him a somewhat mischievous grin as she nodded her head letting him know his secret was safe. It really did not take much thought to know whom he might be visiting.<br><br>For now she would wait for the inspector and another few meetings this evening as well as a little investigation of her own. This was becoming more than a little troublesome, and worrying…<br><br>The major rode across the grounds then and towards the Lady Rowena’s home. Cooper was left to his own devices. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>08-12-2011, 13:14:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> More sounds for Lydia</strong><br><br>The room still had a chill about it, the window rattled and banged and still the curtains danced creating further shadows upon the walls even more so when the light of the moon was caught though the windows. It seemed to offer yet more of a coldness.<br><br>The house was filled with noises both distant and close. Of course she could hear the foot steps of those that might have more amorous intent. Whether it be gentlemen opening the doors to a mistress or a light footed maid, or another heading for a tryst with a handsome stable lad, while a husband or wife slept or rather turned a blind eye. <br><br>The ‘countess’ was sure that the sound of the occasional crying still went on, sometimes it still appeared as if it were in the room and sometimes so very distant. At least the major, or rather the majors man cooper had, had the wits to put cloth upon the horses hooves, so that was one sound she did not hear.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>08-12-2011, 17:41:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> An Inspector Calls (On a Doctor.)</strong><br><br>The Inspector made his excuses suggesting that he wished to make sure Lady Charlotte was well. He nodded to the Doctor and left to retire. Mark was left with a few remaining gentlemen and then was finally able to excuse himself. Meanwhile The Lady and the Inspector were talking quietly about certain events that had transpired. Things were certainly getting much darker, and it appeared the matters here were linked to those in London.<br><br>After the conversation and one more clandestine meeting with another shadowy figure, Inspector Bakersfield then quietly walked to Marks room for some reason he appeared to pass unnoticed and knew where it was. Gently then he rapped on the door and waited for an answer. He was more than sure that the doctor did not want anyone to think that he was being visited by a man. Also if they were investigating anything they would have to tread carefully.<br><br>He knew there much darkness and danger in the house.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>09-12-2011, 05:53:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lydia frowned deeply, tugging her robe more tightly around her. The windows rattled as though it were stormy and it felt just as cold and drafty, but it was clear outside. The moonlight seemed almost physically cold. <br><br>There were sounds in the night besides the strange crying -- ordinary sounds -- but she couldn't get the crying out of her mind. Whatever it was, it wasn't quite right. <br><br>She slipped between the covers of the bed, curling up with the blankets covering her, not really wanting to investigate it, but knowing she wasn't likely to sleep until it stopped. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>10-12-2011, 21:49:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lydia could not be sure but there was a corner in the room that appeared so very dark almost inky back if the truth were too be told. Again it could be the lights that made those somewhat strange tendrils and patterns on the walls. The sobbing continued distantly and could she now hear the sound of a hurdy gurdy. That in itself was strange in a house of such grandeur, and certainly there would be no entertainers at this time of night, and certainly none that played an instrument of that class.<br><br>It was then there was another tapping upon the window. And then a scratching as if something was trying to get in. Meanwhile footsteps passed across the hall floors, and muffled conversations passed, all the while thought the sobbing though distant continued, though occasionally the music covered it.<br><br>Perhaps some of the rather extravagant meal that she had nibbled on had been stale though it had not tasted so.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>12-12-2011, 01:02:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lydia frowned, slid ouf of bed, and turned up the gaslights, grabbing a candle from the bedside table and lighting it. Normally she did not mind the darkness, but these shadows felt dangerous and she knew she wasn't going to be able to sleep until her nervousness was soothed away with logic. It was odd -- though she kept hearing scraping at the windows, she really didn't think there had been anything close enough to scrape against it in the wind. <br><br>The music of the hurdygurdy was just as puzzling -- she'd heard such things as country fairs as a girl and in the streets in London, but never someplace like this. It sounded too close to be coming from the road and she couldn't think why someone would be playing that late, bu that seemed like the most likely explanation. Certainly, sounds seemed to carry oddly enough in this place that it was possible. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>12-12-2011, 08:28:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper makes his way to bed</strong><br><br>With Tyler gone, Cooper made his way up his master’s chambers. The Major would not be back until morning at the earliest, in fact be might not return at all, so Cooper saw no harm in using his bed to sleep in, as it seemed a shame to see it go to waste. <br><br>As he walked slowly to the room, he wondered if he would see Bethany on route or indeed some other unsuspecting maid to assist in tucking him in. <br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler at the door</strong> <br><br>It did not take long for the Major to arrive at the farmhouse that Rowena had acquired, so once there; he dismounted and tied up the horse in the stables before making the short walk to the front door. <br><br>Knowing that she would be pleased to see him, he knocked and waited for the door to be opened so he could be let in. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>17-12-2011, 12:09:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>visitors in the moonlight</strong><br><br>&nbsp;That corner still seemed to have a darkness about it, though it receded just a little however Lydia was still aware of it, and the uncomfortable sensations it left in the room. It appeared the shadows were alive and were deeper than the walls.<br><br>The moon still shone cold and silver thought the heavy curtains, it was surely a clear sky tonight. For some reason, Lydia was compelled to the window, the young woman could not understand why. Even less so when she found herself opening those heavy curtains and looking out onto the grass, for there were two figures encased in moonlight.<br><br>One a tall dark gentleman dressed in formal attire the other a willowy lady with striking red hair. Their faces were as pale as the moonlight and just after the male tipped his hat they seemed to fade from sight, and the shadows in the room appeared less intimidating than they had been. However the strange sounds in the house seemed to continue. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>18-12-2011, 08:54:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lydia found the shadows bewildering and a litte frightening, but she was drawn to the window again despite that. Pushing back the curtains, she saw two figures out on the grass -- a man and a woman, the man dressed in evening wear, the woman's hair shining red in the moonlight. <br><br>She knew they would see her if they looked up, the candle in her hand, her face and nightgown pale against the darkness of the room behind her. As such, she was not entirely surprised when the man tipped his hat, but still nervous. Frowning, she stepped back as they faded into the darkness -- it didn't quite seem like it could be a trick of the light. <br><br>Looking around the room again as she let the curtains fall closed, she found the shadows seemed a little less dense. Although she could still hear noises in the house, those were easier to dismiss as servants and other guests. <br><br>Sighing, she began to pace around the room, thinking and listening. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>18-12-2011, 23:43:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark looked up at the knock on the door and stood moving to the sideboard. His pistol was sat there, five bullets where in the cylinder, the sixth on which the hammer currently rested was empty, best to be careful. He weighed the pistol in his hand for a moment or two and then put it in his pocket.<br><br>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Opening the door her stepped out and nodded at the Inspector, “I take it you have an idea as to where we should go first?”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>19-12-2011, 12:07:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<sub></sub><strong>Mark in the stables and it is no fun</strong><br>“We will have to be careful doctor,” The man dropped his voice yet further, “I think there may be a few ‘investigating… tonight’” Johnny furrowed his brow a little “I think we need to start at the stables. I am hoping we will meet my ‘friend’ there.” The man lost the furrow and almost managed a smile, “Sometimes I think she is more of a man than I…though don’t tell her, she would kill me.”<br><br>“Come on then lets see …” The inspector had a gun too, he and the doctor were able to make there way downstairs and then outside, the sky was clear and the moon shone brightly in the deep sky.<br><br>The two were able to get to the stables though perhaps they might have wished otherwise.<br><br>The horses were already uneasy and Mark and Johnny had already seen a body earlier and two men were carrying it outside now. The ‘dead’ man then seemed to explode into fur teeth and claws.<br><br>The next thing Mark knew he was sitting in the stables drinking a shot of brandy. <br><br>The Stable master was cleaning the stone floor along with a couple of the helpers in his employ, they smiled politely as the Inspector offered Mark an arm once the brandy was finished. "we need to talk." All the while that damned hurdy gurdy was playing.<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>24-12-2011, 00:45:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Lydia has Nightmares</strong><br><br>The sounds indeed sound more ordinary now, though there was still muffled crying and the sound of the hurdy gurdy though perhaps it was more distant, it was certainly difficult to tell. Lydia could not be sure of the time though perhaps she could hear the chiming of a clock, straining her ears possibly, she was able to make out it was two o’clock, had Lydia lost some time.<br><br>Things slowly became more normal and far less surreal. Finally after hearing the clock strike at quarter past and then half past sleep was calling as was her bed. However her dreams were some what strange and rather fitful. The images were muddled and on occasion rather frightening.<br><br>She saw a young boy, dark skinned and likely of Romany blood, in his hand was a hurdy gurdy but most noticeable was the bloody wound of where is heart had been. In blood he took from the said wound, he painted the words ‘Help them’ on the wall.<br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>26-12-2011, 05:42:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Strange dreams were not entirely unfamilar to Lydia, nor disturbing ones, but these were worse than most. Had she been awake, she would have attributed it to the effect of the strange sounds she'd heard earlier, nothing more. She was not a superstitious woman by nature, knowing very well how suggestible people were.<br>&nbsp;<br>Caught up in the reality of the dream, it made perfect sense for Lydia to ask "Who?" Who was she supposed to help? What was she supposed to help with?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>27-12-2011, 21:27:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark took the brandy and sniffed it before swallowing it, just what had just happened? There where confused images in his mind, men fighting a wolf, surely not in this day and age in England? Wolves had long since been eliminated from this fair land unless one had escaped from a zoo.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He was about to interrogate the stable hands when the inspector made his comment. “Yes I think laying our cards on the table would be a good idea.” As he stood he tilted his head, where was that music coming from?<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>28-12-2011, 22:47:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Lydia....things seem to get messy</strong><br><br>There was a strange flickering in Lydia’s mind she caught images of two children but it was hard to catch their faces for the scenes were as small birds wings. She heard the beating of the wings too and the feeling of feathers on her face making it difficult to breath. Feathers or was it spider webs.<br><br>She heard hissing two in the back of her mind too and then shotgun blasts. When the clock downstairs struck five in the morning, Lydia felt damp and there was mud and dirt on her clothes and her bare feet, also powder burns on her fingers. Also a scent of blood lingered, and that was when she realised just what was mingled in the dirt on her sleeping garments. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>29-12-2011, 01:02:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Mark finding a little more.</strong><br><br>“Things are a bit bloody complicated doctor. I mean I am sure you have realised that I am not here just as the Lady Howards Guest.” Much as she was an attractive woman she was certainly not his type by any stretch if the imagination. However Johnny was not about to let that slip…at least not at the present, who knew what would be revealed by the end of the weekend.<br><br>“Shall we perhaps say she aids the investigation?&nbsp; We are still looking into the matters that happened at the Winterstone House when the Mummy was stolen and the Lord William was murdered. There is a good deal afoot and I think that you are already apart of the game…” <br><br>A Cigar was thrown to each of the men and then the face of Charlotte was lit up by her own.<br><br>Somewhere there was a gunshot&nbsp; and then what looked like a ghostly figure faded into the darkness.<br><br>Still the music continued but was fading a little.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>29-12-2011, 08:08:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The dreams would have been disturbing enough with the faces of the small children peering at her through the darkness and the fluttering, clinging wings. <br><br>But waking to find herself damp and smelling of blood, mud and gunsmoke was truly terrifying -- she liked being in control -- waking to find that she seemed to have been outside, smeared in blood that was not her own and with the distinct impression that she'd shot someone or something was no mere bad dream but a true nightmare. She didn't even remember it!<br><br>Shakily, she climbed out of the bed, stripping away her clothing and hiding it away amongst the rest of her clothing. Some of it had transfered to the bed, but maybe not so much that the servants would think anything of it. Later she could have her maid deal with the nightgown.<br><br>Then she took the rag and water from the washbasin and scrubbed at her skin until it was pink and clean. It was cold and unpleastant, but she didn't want to send for hot water yet. Finished, she dressed in a clean nightgown and rang for a servant to bring her tea.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>31-12-2011, 21:06:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Ah.” Mark commented that explained why a Policeman had been invited to a social event that he would not normally be invited too. “So you have official standing, that could be handy from the way things are going.” <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He considered his next words, “That seems to imply that you think that all of us who attended that evening have been effected in some way?”<br>Before the inspector could answer a cigar came flying towards him and quick as a snake Mark’s hand flashed up and caught it. He rolled the cigar between his fingers, oddly enough since that night his reflexes seemed to be faster. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maybe he should tell the Inspector and throw in the fact that he was always hearing music. Maybe not having seen the inside of a lunatic asylum he had no great wish to be a guest there. So instead he looked at Charlotte, “Good evening, come to join the weirdness?”<br>&nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>01-01-2012, 17:11:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Mark at the stables </strong><br><br>“My goodness, yes,” she said, “Such a strange affair …I mean the other incident of course, but it seems we have more of that here. Mummy’s curses and all that.”&nbsp; The woman continued to smoke her cigar. “Indeed there is much to consider, personally I think it all starts with the mummy, but then I have rather a penchant for those terrible stories.”&nbsp; The rather handsome woman gave a somewhat wicked smile. <br><br>“I think there is more to this than meets the eye.” The inspector spoke then as he lit his cigar. Of course he wished for something a little ‘stronger’ however that was not appropriate. “I think more will come to light in the morning, after the ride perhaps we might all might for lunch before the shoot?” Charlotte continued to smoke, “I do believe there are many of us involved in this case…and we must stay strong.”<br><br>As he stood Mark was sure he saw a young boy with a hurdy gurdy in one of the windows. And then it disappeared. It was then a ghostly woman walked past and then all was quiet again save for very distant music, which was barely there now.<br><br>“So when shall we three meet again.” Charlotte said…<br><br>“I think sun up will prove interesting…” Johnny said with a smile, “I do wonder who might be indisposed.”<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>02-01-2012, 22:03:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler returns to a surprise</strong> <br><br>After spending several hours with the dear Rowena, Tyler said “good night” and so as not to be missed, by the house, he soon found himself outside once again and back on the horse he had used from the stables earlier. Excited by his visit to the cottage, he instructed the horse to gallop as it was very late and he needed his sleep. <br><br>Sneaking back into the house was easy as most had gone to bed, but what he found in his bed was quite surprising.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper sleeping</strong><br><br>Disappointed that he could not find anyone to join him for a little RnR, Cooper entered Tyler’s room. <br><br>Now inside and alone, he removed his suit and slid under the sheets. Sleep soon came to him and his dreams occupied his mind for several hours. Vivid as they were, he was awoken by the Major in mid dream and instead of being ordered to remove himself from his room or indeed his bed, he was simply asked to slid over so to make room for him. Cooper imagined he was too tired to reprimand him and could only imagine the kind of dressing down he would receive in the morning. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>04-01-2012, 03:42:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> The Morning After</strong><br><br>Of course many of the guests that had been shifting rooms and meeting with lovers and such, in a tryst, it was expected at events such as these. As long as it was performed discreetly then it was over looked, and never mentioned save perhaps in whispers behind the velvet curtains, tea and perhaps the smoke at a gentleman’s club. <br><br>The troubles the night before were not mentioned, as it would be impolite to ones host. Lydia found that tea and warm water was easily provided and thus could go to breakfast with little trouble at all, and certainly without any stains upon her garments or hands.<br><br>Breakfast was still a formal affair though it was noted that Lady Malsika Winterstone was not there. Lord Robert offered her apologies, apparently the night before had caused her some distress. A few of the women nodded in a most understanding manner. He said that hopefully she would join them later for dinner. <br><br>However for now they should all enjoy breakfast and afterwards the horses would be ready for a most invigorating ride through the grounds. The Shooting would happen after Luncheon.<br>&nbsp;<br>Conversation bubbled over the table…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>07-01-2012, 14:23:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler awakens</strong> <br><br>Sleep came to them both with ease and apart from the dreams that made them fidget a little more than usual Tyler awoke rested. He was the first to awaken and by the looks of things, through a series of unfortunate movements, Tyler found himself spooning Cooper and to add further insult to injury, he had dribbled a little of his saliva on the poor mans shoulder. He quickly did his best to wipe it off as he removed himself from the close proximately to the man. <br><br>Now composed and smelling the delicious odour of breakfast emanating from the kitchens below, Tyler freshened up and got dressed for the day. Just before leaving the room, he looked to his bed and seeing that Cooper was still sleeping he called for him to awaken and head to the kitchens for breakfast while he made his way to the dining room to sit with the other guests. As he awaited the others, he considered that perhaps he would be able to shoot something today. <br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper awakens</strong><br><br>Awoken to begin with by a rather naughty dream, Cooper focused on his surroundings. Now fully aware, he soon realised that his hand was resting on Tyler’s chest. It was then that he remembered that he had been dreaming of a woman and that he had been squeezing her breasts for some time, just before he woke up. Upon this realisation, he slowly removed his hand and moved to the other side of the bed. <br><br>Happy that Tyler had not caught him, he soon fell asleep until Tyler called on him to get up several hours later for breakfast. Now alone, Cooper freshened up and dressed for the day. <br><br>The walk to the kitchens did not take long and within moments of his arrival a large bowl of porridge was thrust in his direction before he found a seat to consume it. As he tucked into the hot breakfast, he wondered who he might meet today that would tickle his fancy.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>09-01-2012, 11:35:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>-Bethany-</strong><br><br>She was busy at work, when the patrons started to wake. Last night, she was asked to attend to some gentleman, but her duties were preventing her to help, she was unknowlingly dodging the proverbial bullet there.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>12-01-2012, 00:12:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;Mark considered things as he lifted lids and then placed items onto his plate. Some kind of cult it had to be, that had to be the answer no doubt. They had been a dammed nuisance out in India especially the murderous ones like the Thuggies. Firm decisive action had proved to be the answer although sending in the troops would probably not be the answer at this country estate.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His plate filled he took his seat and began to eat keeping his eyes on the other guests. The kippers where excellent as to be expected and he made sure to eat well in view of the anticipated schedule. He wondered when the Inspector was going to be joining them.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>15-01-2012, 01:11:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Breakfast</strong><br><br>The food indeed as one would expect was delicious, it had been likely prepared long before the guests arose and now as they started to gather one could only assume that the staff were already dealing with the bedrooms.&nbsp; Of course the staff were well aware of the little trysts that were happening and some of the more attractive of the staff, whatever their gender were somewhat tired after the nights events.&nbsp; Still they were likely well paid or at least accommodated for their efforts.<br><br>The young Inspector arrived downstairs looking a little bleary eyed, the doctor caught the scent of absinth on his breath and the scent of opium clung to his clothes. The man ran his hand through his dark hair, Charlotte and he exchanged glances and then he looked to the doctor and made small talk whilst Charlotte did the same with Major Harington.<br><br><br>“So how are you at riding then,” Johnny asked the doctor, he obviously wanted to chuckle at the comment but kept his composure. “I am afraid I am rather a novice at the whole matter.”<br><br>Charlotte suggested she liked a good sturdy stallion, and then turned to the major, knowing that he had a sense of humour. It was noted in some of the conversations that the lady of the house was not at breakfast. However not to much was made of it after all she was the host.<br><br>Lydia was shown to her place and found herself close to those speaking of the kind of horses they liked to ride.&nbsp; It was then she caught a glimpse of a child at the door, likely one of the former Lord’s children and nephew to Lord Robert. She felt a chill down her spine remembering the words in her dream.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>16-01-2012, 12:01:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler at breakfast</strong><br><br>Soon the good doctor arrived followed shortly by Charlotte and her companion, Johnny. He smiled individually at them all as they entered and soon found himself picking at the display of delicious food not really caring who could not make it to the table as his stomach was in charge of his brain for now and not whether or not Malsika would grace him with her presence or not. <br><br>Lydia’s arrival received a similar smile from the Major before he focused back on his plateful of food. Upon the remark from Lady Charlotte appreciating a good sturdy stallion, the Major almost chocked on his kippers before chuckling to himself and moving his attentions to her. He addressed her but did not mind if the others overheard. “Yes there is nothing wrong, in my book, in regard to that. Strong beasts they are and it would take a fine woman as you to handle such a beast I would warrant.” He remarked with nothing but of the upmost respect for the lady as he had to admit that he found her to be of a spirited nature that applied to his darker side. “I can help you chose a creature if you find the whole process overwhelming, not that I think you will of course.” <br><br>He then addressed the rest of the room “The same goes for anyone else here, as I offer my expertises in that regard. What I don’t know about these fine beasts isn’t worth knowing in my opinion.” He then continued to chat openly with Charlotte whilst finishing of his first helping of breakfast. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>17-01-2012, 12:17:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Breakfast</strong><br>Charlotte was obviously amused by the major, and his comments, of course at the last meal they had made similar innuendo’s yet it amused her a good deal. “So is a nice filly that you might be atop today Major, It seems that perhaps your more favoured one might not be here.” She chuckled again, knowing that she was perhaps disrupting breakfast, but that was her way, after all that meant Johnny could deal with what was needed here. For those two this was not an idle weekend in the country…this was work.<br><br>It was then the Lady turned to the ‘countess and smiled, “So my dear what is your favourite steed, do you prefer something wild or are you a little more of a safe rider.” It was difficult for her to keep a straight face, still there was method in her madness and Charlotte was well aware she could for the most get away with this.<br><br>Johnny remained quiet, seeming to be taking in his surroundings with his rather bloodshot eyes. There was obviously something on his mind, something that Charlotte was hoping to distract the other guests from.<br><br>Malsika of course did not, as she was still indisposed turn up for the meal, though Robert was there and he chatted civilly to the guests closest to him, as one would expect from a host.<br><br>Johnny unseen by anyone slipped a note to the doctor and it was not one for a meeting behind the stables. There was more on his mind…it appeared there was a mystery a foot and went much deeper than he had even contemplated.<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>18-01-2012, 23:41:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark smiled, “Although my regiment was an infantry one officers of course rode. Although I doubt that the armies horse are of the high quality one would expect here. I am quite looking forward to riding a quality horse.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As he spoke Mark watched the other guests noting their demeanor and how they where acting. Some how he suspected that he was not the only one that was finding things in their life somewhat odd.<br>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<br>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; He noted the note being slipped to him but made outward sign that he had. He would read it later when he was changing for the horse ride.<br>&nbsp;<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>19-01-2012, 09:51:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler at breakfast</strong><br><br>The breakfast was a delight to consume and not knowing when lunch would be served, he continued to tuck in with enthusiasm. Charlotte’s innuendo sparring was starting to amuse him too as he smiled in her direction before responding. Before doing so, however, he needed to swallow a rather large sausage that he was toying with in his mouth. Quite a large Cumberland if his memory served him well. Whilst battling with the beast, it gave her a chance to address the others and indeed for the good doctor to reply, so the Major listened intently and when ready he addressed ‘Lady’ Charlotte once again. <br><br>“Quite so, Lady Charlotte, upon hearing that it was so, I was naturally disappointed. I obviously look forward to her return but for now I will have to make do with less familiar stock perhaps you could help me choose once we are in the stables?” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>20-01-2012, 15:27:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Charlotte was enjoying the banter with Major Harrington; he certainly amused her a great deal. Of course he was a cad, and she had no interest in him romantically but he was fun and good company also he without knowing it acted as a most wonderful distraction for her rather more important activities. Still she did have to admit that a little frivolity was always fun too. “So I am assuming that your Man Cooper will be reloading that gun of yours.”&nbsp; The woman said as the major took delight in his sausage, a Cumberland no less.<br><br>Of course her innuendo was lost on many and those that saw it were too polite to mention anything.<br><br>She had avoided drawing any attention to the Doctor thus far but once the note was pocked she spoke. “So my Good Doctor are you looking forward to a bracing ride, I am sure the air will be far more invigorating and better for the lungs than that horrible smog in London.<br><br>The Lord carried on speaking with those close to him trying to avoid most peoples eye, certainly something was happening in this household and it was not altogether wholesome.<br><br>Still both the doctor and the ‘countess’ were aware of a distant tune that thy had both been so aware of the night before.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>23-01-2012, 11:50:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler at breakfast</strong><br><br>Once she had addressed the Doctor, Tyler, in response to the good lady’s enquiry, simply nodded before commenting on her assumption. “You know I think you might be right there, unless there is someone else here who would like to reload my weapon, since the Lady Rowena is not present to do such.” <br><br>He looked around at a number of possibilities before returning to his rather large but misshapen banger which he spent the next few minutes sliding in and out of the hot and lubricating juices as he tried to figure out how he would tease it into his mouth.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>25-01-2012, 00:25:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“I very rarely ride in London, too much traffic and as you say the smog can be quite catching in the throat at times. So unlike riding in the mountains in India, there the air is so crisp and clear.” Mark replied with a smile, “Now any one else for more tea?”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark used the excuse of getting more tea to move to the side where he quickly scanned the note. A Body indeed but the Inspector did not say whose, or maybe he just did not know? A filled cup in hand he returned to the others. “I am quite looking forward to the ride and in fact it is probably time I was getting changed.” <br><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He drained the cup in one and then put it down on the side before giving the Inspector a quick nod indicating that he had read the note and was ready to assist. “See you all shortly.” He gave the ladies a respectful nod and then left the room. Outside in the corridor he stopped and waited for the Inspector.<br><br>&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>27-01-2012, 00:10:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> A little Investigation</strong><br>While Charlotte continued to entertain and misdirect with her rather hilarious stories and slightly risqué comments, it meant that it was easier for Johnny to quietly excuse himself too. He nodded then to the doctor “we will have to act quickly,” I will tell you more on the way, “we should head out through the kitchens.” He paused and tilted his head, “Yes I believe there will be a visitor here soon, and we must try to be discreet.”<br><br>As they walked he explained that Cooper might be in the kitchens and he felt the man was rather more useful than the major when it came to investigations, he too might offer help as well.<br><br>Indeed the majors batman was downstairs enjoying the company of a young maid whilst drinking some tea and eating some breakfast.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>27-01-2012, 07:24:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lydia settled down at breakfast, glad of something so very prosaic and British after her distressing night, though she made a point of commenting on how different it was from breakfast back home, as the countess often said such things. <br><br>She listened to the chatter about horses with amusement, content for the time being to simply enjoy her tea and practice looking slightly foreign and exotic. She gave the child she caught a glimpse of a small, pleasant smile.<br><br>As the widowed countess was sometimes a bit risque, when she was not simply making slight misinterpretations of the English language, she replied to Charlotte with a smile, "I have found that there are advantages to both sorts of steeds. It depends on my mood, yes? A ride with a wild steed is very exciting, of course... But there is something to be said for the familiar and comforting too..."<br><br>Her expression grew a little abstract for a moment as she heard the strange music again, though she was practiced enough to hide it quickly. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>29-01-2012, 00:54:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest arrives for breakfast</strong><br><br>The carriage began to pass through the gates of the most beautiful estate, it was indeed huge, with beautiful grounds that all seemed very well maintained, yet it all seemed a little too perfect, a little too quiet save for the two howls that passed in the distance, and the fluttering of a large raven past the windows.<br><br>Of course Tempest and Robert were greeted most properly and invited in and shown to their rooms firstly which of course were perfectly turned down. They were invited to eat at the table for breakfast.<br><br>As Tempest was dealing with her belongings a blond haired child knocked at her door and smiled. She then spoke “Are you one of the ones sent to help us?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>29-01-2012, 23:35:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“The kitchens?” Mark queried, after all the kitchens was the place for servants and the mistress if the house not gentlemen such as themselves. They would rather stick out in Mark’s opinion but he had to assume that the Inspector knew what he was doing.&nbsp; “Very well lead on good sir.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As Mark had thought the kitchen staff gave them odd looks when they thought they where not looking. And who was this visitor that the Inspector knew about, the more that he went into things the more obscure it seemed to get.<br>The major’s Batman was indeed in the kitchen having some breakfast and Mark glanced at the Inspector waiting for him to speak.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CurvyKitten</strong> on <strong>30-01-2012, 15:46:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tempest was putting away a few things and exploring her room a bit. Smiling lightly as she enjoyed the wonderful room. Her mind wondered about what could happen while she was here. About the things Robert told her about. The strange and wonderful sites she would come across while here. When she heard a knock at the door she went to the door and smiled to the small child at her door. <strong>"Come to help you? I am a visitor here yes, what ever could you need help with?"</strong> she asked looking sweetly to the child before her. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>31-01-2012, 21:35:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper at breakfast</strong><br><br>Finding his breakfast to be to his liking, he soon finished his porridge only to find that he had dripped a small amount onto his lap. As he tried wiped it clean, he only hoped that it would not stain as a white porridge mark might suggest that he had dropped his guard and weaken in regard to the fairer sex and we could not have that now can we, he thought with a smile. <br><br>As he wiped it of his ‘Southern Necessities’, he noticed that one of the more appealing maids seeming to be show an interest in his attempt to hide the evidence. He smiled towards her and called her over and soon found himself chatting with her at length about the little incident and more besides over a nice cup of tea. Whilst discussing a possible secret rendezvous with her, he noticed two men, by the door, that seemed familiar to him and if he didn’t know better they seemed to be looking for him. So he nodded to the maid with smile and when she was out of sight, he turned to them and waited to be addressed, which was unusual as a man of his station should surely ask what they wanted, wouldn’t he?&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>01-02-2012, 16:27:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Children with Tempest</strong><br><br>The girl was a pretty young girl, and if the gossip she had heard from Robert was true then she was likely the niece of the new Lord. The girl was beautifully dressed and stood in a most beautiful manner. “Well friends of my brother and I have said that there will be people coming to help us.” She paused then and a younger boy peered around the door.<br><br>“I think you can tell her, she has eyes like the not all the time fox. He doesn’t come any more since Aunt…”<br><br>He was shushed by his sister, but he did not remain quiet, “The raven told us, and the Black Shuck.” He grinned a toothy smile. Both appeared rather sweet and polite children. The girl spoke then, “Might we find you some staff to help you?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CurvyKitten</strong> on <strong>01-02-2012, 17:51:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tempest with the Children.<br><br>Tempest smiles to them both as they speak, seeming happy to listen. "You both sound as if you have a story to tell. What is it you need help with? And whom are the raven and the Black Shuck, they sound interesting and if they would see to your safety then lovely and kind as well." she looked to her things and waved her hand, "I can get my things, but I would love some tea. Even more so if you both would join me and tell me more of this place, and what someone as simple as I can help with in such a lovely place." she looks to both of them to see if they will join her. "I love to hear stories and learn of new places, would you do me the honor?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>02-02-2012, 11:01:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Cooper, the inspector and the Doctor</em><br>In the Kitchen<br><br>The young inspector approached Cooper, “Mister Cooper isn’t it?” He paused for a brief moment and then added, “The Major Harrington’s man yes.” There were of course a number of rumours about the two men, but Johnny was pretty sure that was not the case, however he had indeed also heard that the man was far brighter and more perceptive than the major.<br><br>“We were wondering if you might aid us with a little matter outside, once you have finished your tea of course.” Both men noticed that the majority of the staff here appeared a little nervous and there was a gossip happening and any that was going on was quiet and whispered. It was almost eerie, and uncomfortable. The inspector gestured then that they should go outside to talk more privately.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>02-02-2012, 12:21:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper at breakfast</strong><br><br>With a nod, Cooper rose from his chair and hoped that the moist patch on his leg was unnoticeable as he spoke “I am indeed he and I would of course be happy to assist you both in any way I can.” <br><br>He then looked to the table and then the maid that he was chatting with before continuing “As I have already seen to my refreshments, I am more than ready to go and see to this matter that you feel necessary for me to assist you with.” He then tipped his hat to the maid who smiled at him and made his way out of the kitchen. He then turned to the gentlemen and questioned “Which way?”&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miroque</strong> on <strong>03-02-2012, 12:41:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				-Bethany-<br>Young maid was doing her chores in the kitchen, when men were talking about going out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>03-02-2012, 12:53:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest with the Children</strong><br><br>The Lady did seem nice and of course they could see that she did have ‘magic eyes’ but they were really not supposed to tell. They looked at each other for some time, and then tilted their heads examining the woman a little, still debating as to home much to tell her. Well Governess is rather busy at the moment so I think it might be alright.<br><br>After a short while a young and rather plain looking maid brought in tea and then brought in two more cups on the same tray, she curtsied and then left the children with Tempest but only after she had made sure that the beautiful woman did not mind.<br><br>The boy spoke first, “My name is James and I am really the Lord here but my Uncle has to take care of it until I am old enough. I don’t like my uncle, and he has become worse since he married that horrible darkie.” The girl elbowed James in the ribs, “You know we must not be rude about her. We used to like it here till father passed on and mother went away to get better. Our Uncles new wife is rather scary. I am Alice by the way ma’am.” The girl was very gentil.<br><br>“Our other house in London used to be nice until father and uncle returned from Egypt. That was when mother started to get ill .” She bit her lip and looked a little upset. Still they both wondered how much to tell. After all the lady would likely consider the shuck and the raven just childish fancies.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>05-02-2012, 17:06:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;<strong> the Doctor the inspector and the Batman Looking for another mystery</strong><br><br>The Inspector lead the way though the downstairs of the house, it was rather a warren with many various rooms that lead off from the main kitchens on the way he checked for various places that might be priest holes. He suggested the others did so too, for after the events of the last event they all met it might be worth knowing about tunnels and places to hide.<br><br>“Do you think they might still have plans here?” He asked “Though you and I have to go riding …do you?” He looked then to Cooper as they walked.<br><br>Once outside Johnny lead the mean off a little someway behind the stables, where much of the manure was kept and few save the gardener and his men would go. There was what looked like a shallow grave extremely close almost covered by the pile. Likely when the horses were covered up it would disappear.<br><br>Cooper could hear voices from inside the stables.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>06-02-2012, 00:20:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark followed the Inspector curious as to where he was taking them. He smiled at the comments about priest holes, “I doubt they are on any plans.” Once they had reached the stables they stood looking at what appeared to be a hallow grave.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Hmm. Only one way to find out if that is what it looks like.” He looked around bound to be shovels nearby in a stables and there where. Picking two up he tossed one to the Inspector. “Lets get digging.”<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>06-02-2012, 10:45:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper investigating the outside</strong><br><br>The direction to his question was clear as the Inspector took the lead. Cooper followed both men outside and when at the shallow grave, he replied to the Inspectors inquiry “No I won’t be riding, well any horses anyway. I can not guarantee the same of the maids in this fine house.” He chuckled at his little joke whilst the Inspector and the good Doctor began to investigate the grave. <br><br>He was going to take a spade himself but he became a little distracted by the voices from within the stables. “I’ll be right back gentlemen as I believe that someone or something is inside the stables. Join me when you get a moment if you can.” He then took the short walk to the stable entrance to enquire as to the noise or indeed the voices. Now at the entrance he entered the building ever so curious as to whom he might find within. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CurvyKitten</strong> on <strong>08-02-2012, 14:08:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest and the children</strong><br><br>Tempest assured the woman that it was fine and she was looking forward to speaking with the children. Sitting down to listen to them and what they had to say. She let them look as they wished know her strange eyes always drew attention. <br><br>She sipped her tea and sat back listened, "Oh my sounds like you have had such a time as of late. Why does your new uncle scare you so much?" she asked looking honestly concerned. She takes a breath and thinks, "I wish I knew more of Egypt but I have never been there in my travels, I would love to help your mother. Has she seen doctors? I have met a few in my travels, one that helped me in Paris in fact I got dreadfully ill while I was there. Lost my voice even." she touched her throat, "I was so afraid, I sounded all scratchy and high pitched." she mimicked the voice best she could. "Being sick is no fun, I wish I could help your mother."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>10-02-2012, 00:31:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> being nosy Cooper the doctor and the inspector.</strong><br><br><br>It did not take long for the inspector and the doctor to find that which was hidden, rather badly but still hidden. It was likely something that would have been moved during the time when the guests were riding. The did find a body, however it was not something that they had expected. It was a large shaggy dog though missing a head.<br><br>The inspector frowned this was not what he was expecting, the beast had been shot twice and the bullets appeared to be silver. Much like the ones the one the Doctor had found last night.<br><br>“This is rather …well more than rather odd.” Johnny Scratched his head and started to fill his pipe.<br><br>Meanwhile Cooper was able to pass almost silently around the stables, he could smell the scent of the horses, and feel the heat from the place he heard the whinny of the beast and then a few voices. <br><br>“We need to get rid of this one…”<br><br>“Mum says she has a …”<br><br>“We’ll take fleet foot too”<br><br>“ …dangerous….”<br><br>“Shhhhhh….The witch can hear in her sleep…”<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>10-02-2012, 23:51:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark squatted by the body of the dog and examined it, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a pen and using it to examine the wounds. After a while he seemed to reach a conclusion. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“I would say without a postmortem it is only conjecture but never the less a reasonable conjecture.” He gestured to the two bullets, “They are what killed the dog, the head was removed afterwards judging y the lack of blood spray on the fur. Had the heart still been beating when it was removed the fur would be caked in blood and it is not.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He stood after wiping the pen in the dirt and looked at the Inspector. “Rather an overkill to decapitate after death unless for some reason you expected the dog to come back to life regardless of the bullet wounds. Peasant superstition or?”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark left the question hanging in the air.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>13-02-2012, 01:15:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest with the Children</strong><br><br>“We have been told that mama has always been delicate, I think that was the word used.” The girl said. Tempest was aware of the family and there was gossip that their mother suffered from weakness of the mind, just as other members of her family had.<br><br>The boy mostly drank milk but the girl was extremely polite as she sipped her tea. “Our mother is apparently in a special place for those with…” the boy continued not realising it was not the sort of thing one discussed.&nbsp; “Yes she had to go to somewhere because of her head.” He received a kick then from his sister. “We do not talk of such things…” was all she said and this was true, one did not speak of madness.<br><br>“Our Uncle is not a nice man and his wife is a darkie that sleeps all day.” The fact was that all of the family estate would fall to the male child that was unless some accident or illness befell him.<br><br>“You lost your voice?” The pale haired girl changed the subject, knowing that uncle seemed to have ears in most places. “That must have been terrible even as she spoke she slipped the lovely lady a small piece of paper.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CurvyKitten</strong> on <strong>13-02-2012, 11:39:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest with the Children</strong><br><br>Tempest listened to the children and once they spoke of their mother and the way her mind was she nodded in understanding. "Ahh I see, well I don't know a doctor like that. But I am sure they have the best looking after her." she nodded and sipped at her tea. Tempest had heard of rumors of the family and now figured that some of them had some truth to them.<br><br>"Not a nice man?" she looked truly and honestly concerned when she asked that. She was worried about the idea of their uncle possibly hurting them. Tempest couldn't stand the idea of children being hurt. She also thought the idea of a woman sleeping all day odd. But the idea of the children being hurt was of more concern to her.But she seemed to let it go as the girl changed the subject. <br><br>"Oh yes it was, it was so very scary. I love to sing you see, it is one of my passions." she nodded and let her hand slip to take the paper. "I was so happy when it finally returned and I got better."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>13-02-2012, 18:03:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> The Countess Steps out.</strong><br><br>During the frivolity, rather racy and innuendo filled conversation over breakfast the ‘countess excused herself most politely. Though there was perhaps a slightly different tone to her voice and her eyes appeared a little glazed over. The Lord was distracted by her, as was Charlotte. Though for now neither did anything. Whatever happened between that point and the time she ended up in her room some time later was anyone’s guess including her own. It did appear that this young woman had lost at least an hour considering the clock in her room. Also there was earth on her shoes and the hem of her dress was wet.<br><br>At least this time there was no blood upon her garments.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>15-02-2012, 14:52:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Inspector frowned down looking at the ‘dog’ this was getting more and more dangerous. There was going to be blood flowing and not just in the streets of London. This was a very dangerous predicament for this area too. He really did not know how much he could tell the doctor it was a difficult situation. Even just standing by the man he was aware that Mark had a fate, a bloody and dark one...yet perhaps there was something light at the end if he kept his head and remembered that which he had been.<br><br>Indeed the inspector seemed to fad out for a short time, his eyes glazed and blank almost as if he were on drugs, however he did come around. “Doctor…Doctor we need to take this body…and I think I know where. “we can use the ride a a decoy we just need to work out a way to get there. And we need a sheet. <br><br>The bullets were indeed silver.<br><br>“I agree with the fact it seemed rather overly zealous to remove the head, but perhaps some people have been reading too many penny dreadfuls or are rather superstitious.” Yes Johnny was sure that the man would not take that as the truth, but he was gradually testing the water as it were.<br><br>"I do believe I might know who this animal belongs too..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>16-02-2012, 15:15:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper investigating the stables</strong><br><br>Realising where the voices were coming from, Cooper moved to to investigate from whom they were emanating from. Now just on the other side of a dividing wooden wall, he listened to hear if they were saying anything else. When nothing else came he moved to the block there exit and enquired <br><br>“What are you doing here, where do you think you are taking beast and finally who is this witch that you speak off? I demand an answer, speak.” <br><br>He stood his ground and looked to be trying to locate his pistol as he waited for a response that he would deem satisfactory.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>17-02-2012, 06:53:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lydia's first clear thought as her awareness returned and she took in her state was at least this time there was no blood on her clothing. What there was, however, was water on her skirts and dirt on her shoes. She'd been outside and she had no real recollection of it, just a few hazy memories. Moreover, it was at least an hour later than it should have been. <br><br>She was not sure what was happening to her -- was she going mad? And why on earth did she remember smelling opium and sex? That was one thing to find in London, but surely not here in the country... She wondered why she thought the women had been unwilling and then she wondered how she'd known that. She gave a shiver, suddenly feeling cool. It wasn't a draft this time, more the dampness of her dress or some lingering feeling from what she'd experienced... <br><br>She slipped off her shoes, noting the smears of mud on the side of them were rather sandy. Not knowing the area, she didn't know where the soil looked like that, but she stored the information away. <br><br>With a little shiver, she took off her dress and hung it out of sight, pulled on a dressing gown and rang for tea, though she had a feeling it was going to take something a mite stronger to really comfort her. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>18-02-2012, 23:52:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking around Mark commented, “A horse blanket do instead of a sheet.” He stood and walked over to where said item was hanging over a railing. It was a matter of minutes to roll the dog’s body into the horse blanket and then with a wry smile Mark added the head.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He looked down at the wrapped bundle and then up at the Inspector. “It will be difficult to move this on horseback without people commenting. Maybe Cooper’s man can put it on cart and met us. No one takes much notice of what servants are doing.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Whilst he waited for the Inspector to answer Mark mused on just what he was not being made aware of and its relevance to him.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>22-02-2012, 15:22:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>Tempest with the children.</strong><br><br>“I expect you were m’am “ Alice said softly, “Our Governess was a singer before she came to work for us. I think she would rather still be a singer.” The boy nodded sagely. “She is not nasty though just…well she is just …I don’t think she likes children. Not in the way that our uncle does not like children though.” The pale haired girl added seeming to want to defend the woman.<br><br>It was then that they both changed the subject, and started asking about which horse she might like to ride. They both said they would be more than happy to help her choose, because they had known the horses here for a long time. Alice suggested that there was a pretty grey mare that might suit Tempest, she was both gentle and fast apparently, and also easy to control. However there are some more feisty horses too, we have a bay gelding that is rather fun to ride. Would you care to look at them?”<br><br>The both seemed to want to be out of the house just as she was finishing her tea a large raven flew past the window. The children both looked at it and smiled.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CurvyKitten</strong> on <strong>22-02-2012, 16:34:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest and the children.</strong><br><br>Tempest nodded as they spoke, "Well when one has a passion for something it is hard to give up. One of my is music and singing." she smiled and thought a moment. "Well they may not like children, but I very much do. So I hope we can be friends. And while I am here I will try and keep you both company. I think we can have some good times together. Sometimes all on needs are some good memories to hold to." she smiles softly and finishes her tea. <br><br>"Oh I would love to see them. And who knows maybe all some of those feisty horses simply need a woman's touch." she laughed softly and stood. The bird catching her eye for only a moment, "Oh...is that your Raven friend you spoke about earlier? Maybe I can meet him too.' she mused softly and held out her hands. 'Come guide me to the stables would you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>22-02-2012, 23:50:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Cooper investigating the stables </strong><br><br>The three individuals looked on Cooper and he felt the same sensation that the major had felt when he met with the darkie at the dinner table though threefold. They smiled, one was possibly a woman though dressed in rather shabby male garments, the other an older male perhaps just a little younger than Cooper though he looked heavily scared, indeed one of his eyes appeared to have been taken out from the scarring like a tiger. The other looked no older than fourteen and was likely male though again it was difficult to tell.<br><br>The older man looked at Cooper, “Listen mate you likely don’t want to get too involved here, if you catch my drift. But as I am feeling kind I’ll tell you who the witch is…it’s the fucking darkie woman inside, she’s a snake that one and you would do well to steer clear.”<br><br>He looked up again, “Trust me you don’t want to demand anything from me or my friends again.” At that point a raven flew and alighted on the stable roof.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>24-02-2012, 15:21:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Finding Cooper</strong><br><br>“Oh.” The inspector frowned a little his brows knitting together, “I think Cooper is the Majors man, Major Harrington you know the one that has rather an eye fir the ladies.” He gave a chuckle, but then returned to the matter in hand.&nbsp; “I think that indeed a cart would be the best way of transportation of the beast.” <br><br>“I am sure he wont mind helping us and I don’t imagine he has other plans, though who can possibly tell. I believe he went to the stables themselves…” He looked about then for Cooper and then casually walked to the actual stable hoping the Doctor followed. The both heard the last snippets of the conversation as it transpired.<br><br>At that moment a large raven, much like the one that had been at the mummy unwrapping alighted on the roof of the stables seeming to watch on in interest. It let out a couple of caws, and started to preen.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>25-02-2012, 15:20:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper investigating the stables</strong><br><br>Hearing the man’s explanation for why he was here seemed to reassure Cooper that he perhaps did not need his gun just yet, so he rested his hands to his side and smiled instead. “Well I will take you advice in regard to the woman of which you speak as the chance of talking to her was slim to none in the first place as I am just a servant myself.” <br><br>He looked to all in front of him and then turned on his heel as it was more than his jobs worth to try and stop them in whatever they were doing to the animals within the stables. <br><br>It was then that he heard the raven atop the stables and as he went to investigate the noise he bumped into the inspector and doctor who had made their way inside the stables for some reason. <br><br>“I’m going outside to see what that noise was on the roof, coming?” he informed as he walked passed them a little disappointed that he would not be shooting his gun at this current moment. Perhaps he could shot the raven instead, he thought as he walked on. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>26-02-2012, 12:06:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>More at the Stables.</strong><br><br>The raven seemed to watch the three between the obvious cleaning and beautifying itself. A little soot fell from hits feathers as it flapped them and shook itself. Then it let out a caw which seemed to be directed at Cooper almost as if laughing at him. <br><br>The inspector looked between the two men with him, “The Doctor and I found something interesting if a little grisly. Perhaps he will fill you in a little more on the details, and I believe we might need your help whilst we have to go riding.” There was a pause and some thought. “If you don’t mind that is, and of course if the Major is amicable on the matter.” He frowned then seeming concerned, “It is however of some importance and I believe it might be linked to the events at the Mummy unwrapping.”<br><br>With thathe walked back to the uncovered dead body of the large dog, that was missing a head.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>26-02-2012, 15:27:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest and the children</strong><br><br>The two children continued to chatter, this time it was more mundane as they lead the Lady through the house. It was certainly a large and most impressive place, Queen Anne style though likely built on far older foundations. Occasionally though the two were silent and seemed to watch and see if there might be something untoward. <br><br>Any servants that passed of course stepped aside to both the children and of course the beautiful guest. <br><br>“So what colour is your favourite horse then? Do you have one of your own…we have ponies…” The two continued to talk then of horses but still occasionally there was silence in places. “We must be careful not to disturb ‘the lady of the house.’” With that they carried on taking another route through the house and exiting out of a side door. An exit that no one else knew about. <br><br>Though it also led to a maze it was the stables that they were going too,&nbsp; Tempest could see three men walking around the stables and also a large raven on the roof.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>26-02-2012, 21:25:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mark nodded at the Inspectors words, “We have found something that we wish to investigate further and as the inspector says we need your help. Come.” He followed the inspector back into the stables and pointed at the wrapped bundle.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“We need that taking off the estate and it is easier for you to do it than us. No offence intended but nobody takes much notice of what a servant is doing.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He glanced at the Inspector, “He believes he knows who it belongs to and when&nbsp; we meet off the estate during the ride perhaps he can inform us further.”<br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>27-02-2012, 14:48:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper investigates the hole</strong><br><br>Upon hearing the gentlemen’s need for his help he of course obliged. He clearly seemed disappointed about something and this was in his mind due to the fact that he would not be shooting the Raven. He could swear that the creature was mocking him because of this or some other reason, so before acknowledging that he would help the men, he toyed with the bird and repositioned the fingers of his right hand into the shape of a pistol and pointed it in the bird’s direction. After a few seconds he moved it upwards to hint that a bullet had been fired before placing his finger in his pocket to rest. <br><br>A smile of satisfaction was seem on his lips upon completion of this little joke before he spoke “Of course Gentlemen, lead the way and show me what you have found and indeed what you feel I need to do to help. I don’t think we need to trouble the mind of the Major with this simple task as sometimes it is best that he does not know what I have to do to make his life a little more peaceful.” He did not elaborate any further upon his meaning, but it might be construed that it had something to do with the Major’s ex-wives, so instead he simply smiled at what he saw in the hole. “I will do my best gentlemen; it will be as if it did not exist once I am done with it.” He closed with “Please enjoy your riding and feel free to seek me out once you are free from such activities.”&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>02-03-2012, 23:25:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Plans</strong><br>The inspector nodded, and thanked Cooper for his help, then added looking to the roof of the stables that he himself might have some help in finding the place. “I hear that ravens have a good sense of direction, but I could be wrong.” <br><br>“So how are you at riding my good Doctor, I warrant chasing across the fields to an emergency must make you a rather experienced or in the case of that which we are thinking off not… as it might be easy to get lost around here yes?”&nbsp; The inspector considered that for a moment. “Did you come with a partner?” There was another pause, he might be a pretty boy but he did seem to be considering various matters.<br><br>“Doctor I think you might be less noticed if you leave the riding group and Charlotte and I can cause a diversion without problem I think.” The man looked to Cooper then, “ I believe there is a lady who owns a small cottage to the West …perhaps one of the servants might know of it, I think she may be missing one of her dogs. Perhaps one of her children might come looking for a doctor?” He was merely offering possibilities but felt this body needed to be gone and at some point they had to find the head.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>04-03-2012, 00:41:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“I have a reasonable seat on a horse and my leaving the ride may be as simple as feigning that the horse has a limp and urging people to ride on.” Mark smiled, “I have found in life that the simpler you make things then the less chance for them to go wrong.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark shook his head, “No, I came alone to the weekend.” He smiled, “Maybe with faint hopes of meeting a respectable woman with whom I have things in common. At my age one still has hopes.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>06-03-2012, 13:48:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper moves the dog</strong><br><br>He made the two men aware that he understood their instructions with a nod before watching them leave to go about their day. <br><br>Now alone with a shovel and the shallow grave, he slid the remains into a hessian bag that he found near the stables and placed it into the back of one of the horses. The distance to the cottage was not far and before long he found himself outside the front door. <br><br>He notices a women outside but instead of going to her, he ties the horse up near the house and knocks on the door to see if anyone was home. In the back of his mind he imagined a voluptuous beauty as he waited patiently for the door to open. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>07-03-2012, 22:08:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Cooper is able to move the dog</strong><br><br><br>With little trouble Cooper was able to organise a horse and carry the ‘dog’ in the direction which was offered to him. Occasionally out of the corner of his eye the man saw a dark shape in the sky, of course he could very much imagine that it was a raven. The raven appeared to be keeping time with him, though perhaps it was just his imagination.<br><br>Cooper felt the heat of the horse and felt its life and heartbeat, he could smell the sweet scent of its coat and horse mash. It grunted and started as the made good speed to their destination.&nbsp; This was a fine chestnut gelding, with a stripe and two white socks.<br><br>Finally after cantering and galloping across fields and jumping hedges Cooper saw a village in the distance but before that there was a cottage. He could here the sound of children playing and various animals. He could see a woman, a rather comely woman in her forties hanging out her laundry on a line outside. <br><br><br>The woman notices Cooper and his horse as well as the bag he is carrying. She waves to him, "Yoooo hooo, can I be of any 'elp tah yeah sir?" Still she continues hanging out the washing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>07-03-2012, 22:08:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Finding horses.</strong><br><br>By now breakfast was over and most had changed into their outfits for riding, the ladies in more fitting skirts and polite hats. The gentlemen in fine leather riding boots that had a most wonderful scent and jodhpurs to match those most exquisite items.&nbsp; The horses in the stable were already restless as they were aware it seemed that they would be taken out for a ride that they would be able to race across the countryside.<br><br>There were various beasts of varying temperaments; the stable hands and the stable master were most helpful. Of course they were never insulting to those that could not ride or were inexperienced but found them rather quieter mounts. They were also aware aof the type of horses that a lady might prefer and those a gentleman might enjoy.<br><br>Charlotte ended up riding a spirited Stallion that was a beautiful chestnut, a star upon his face. Robert was offered a gelding that was a grey and calmer in nature. The inspector, Johnny was offered a fine dark gelding that was relatively calm. Many of the ladies were give mares to ride as on the whole they were calmer. <br><br><em>Everyone please choose the horses they wish</em> (within reason, sorry no pink unicorns )<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>08-03-2012, 17:33:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Cooper meets a large Lady</strong><br><br>Cooper thought that perhaps he saw a dark tall shadow in one of the windows though could not be overly sure as the way the light was created rather unusual shadows. One large dog approached as he knocked the door. It appeared just short of adulthood and needed to fit into its large paws. This was surely going to be a massive dog.<br><br>The raven alighted on the roof then and let out another caw.<br><br>It was then that the rather rotund woman came around the corner and smiled at Cooper, she was not unattractive though was a somewhat large. Her nose seemed to twitch, and then her nostrils flared, “So you ‘ave come from the big ‘ouse? Bad news I am thinking?” With a look two of the children went into the house. Still with pegs in her apron the woman shook her head.<br><br>“So you goin to tell me what’s ‘appaning.” Her hand was on her hip now, as she continued to study the man io front of her pushing&nbsp; a few more pegs into her pockets.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>08-03-2012, 23:37:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark chose a bay for himself, the horse looked like it had a quiet temperament and that was what he was looking for. One that would be easy to slowly drift to the back of the riders and would stand passively whilst he pretended to find a lame leg.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mounted he moved himself next to the Inspector, “I am looking forward to meeting this person you mentioned in the stables. Hopefully we will have an interesting conversation.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CurvyKitten</strong> on <strong>09-03-2012, 01:10:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tempest and the children</strong><br><br>Tempest fallowed the children smiling as they talked and journeyed towards the stables. "Oh I will trust your judgment on horses, but I should think one with a bit of spirit to it. I'm always one for an adventure, one for for being bold. It is after all how you come across the most interesting things is it not.' she smiles and keeps walking. <br><br>Tempest noticed people bustling about the stables and&nbsp; heard a crow caw. Smiling she leaned down to the children, "It seems we are not the only ones that have come to ride this day. "
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>09-03-2012, 08:28:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Having made no particular claims to be an extraordinarily skilled rider, the countess was given a fairly steady chestnut mare. That was fine with her, as it meant she had to do little more than show off her elegant, stylish riding dress and hat. Though she didn't have any special fondness for riding, her skills were certainly more than adequate for that.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>11-03-2012, 14:17:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks with the woman</strong><br><br>Still waiting at the door and studying the dog within he soon realised that perhaps the woman he was seeking was the one talking to him so he walked towards her and smiled. That's a nice dog you have inside the cottage. Quite an impressive beast if i do say so myself.” <br><br>He then proceeded to assist her with hanging the clothes while he continued to talk with her. “I was asked to bring something that might belong to you from the estate. We found it buried in a shallow grave. A headless dog. Are you missing such a creature, my i ask before you go and take a look?” <br><br>He continued to assist the woman while he waited for a reaction to his statement.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>11-03-2012, 14:26:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler mounts the mighty beast</strong> <br><br>He had finally felt comfortable enough to leave the dining room and follow the others to choose a horse. He had eaten to much and now was mostly concerned that he might be sick while riding, which might cause some embarrassment to say the least. It did not take to long to find a horse that would match his personality best. It was a black beast with a white line of hair down its nose and by the look of things it seemed pleased to see him too. <br><br>Even though his stomach was still full, mounting the beast was done with relative ease and now with his feet secured and hands in the reins he looked around at the others with some pride as he motioned the creature to walk on. <br><br>With no sign of Cooper, he looked around for company, while the others picked out their horses for the day.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>11-03-2012, 22:46:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Cooper meets some busty Locals</strong><br><br>The woman appeared an amenable woman; she was certainly healthy and had the glow of the countryside about her. It was obvious she was a local from her accent and the way she behaved, as if the world was here in her back yard.<br><br>“Now young man what’ were ta’’ yer were sayin? Come in and ‘ava a cuppa.” The raven watched on until the woman told it to bugger off and go to bother someone else. “Me dag yeah say, oh me poor wee dag.” The woman was obviously upset though tried hard not too show too much emotion for now until the man had proved himself at least slightly trustworthy.<br><br>“Where did yeah find ‘im…were it up at the big ‘ouse…in a shallow grave? Bad lot they are I can tell yeah that much...Who would ‘urt such a sweet animal? Cut off ‘is head? Awww please don’t tell the wee ones will yeah…”<br><br>&nbsp;It was then a rather buxom young woman leaned out of the window, “Ma…do we ‘ave company?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>11-03-2012, 23:36:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Starting the Ride.</strong><br><br>It was not long before people were sorted with various horses, depending on how well they rode, and how experienced they were. All of the horses were certainly well cared for and maintained though they did seem a little unsettled. However this could have been from the incident last night.<br><br>The two children help Tempest find a pretty grey mare, and then leave waving to the raven. The girl whispers to the woman, “She is mostly calm but does not like the colour orange or rustling bags.”<br><br>Once everyone was mounted upon the various steeds, the group started across the estate. The place was beautiful and the grounds were exquisite as was the land further afield.&nbsp; This was certainly useful for those that were investigating the many strange events for it meant that they would start to find perhaps more secrets. <br><br>It certainly appeared there were many secrets in this place, over this estagte, just as there had been at the Mummy unwrapping. Yes the bandages were starting to fall and soon the body might be revealed. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>13-03-2012, 12:36:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks with the women of the cottage</strong><br><br>For someone he considered to have several years on him, she had a sort of appeal that Cooper liked. After a few more moments of assisting her with the washing he finally figured out what it was. Her Bosoms!, he thought with a smile. Now back at his horse, while he listened to her talk about the house and the goings on, not to mention her calling them a bad lot, Cooper lifted off the Hessian bag and added “Yes the more I hear about that house the less I am likely to return until the Major wishes for us to depart.” Now with the bag over his shoulder, he turned to the woman one more time. “Unfortunately you are right to assume the worse in regard to the dog and do not worry I will see to it that the creature has a proper burial and I will not make the little ones aware of it either.” <br><br>He then took his first few strides to the front of the house, in which there was a shaded area under a tree. A perfect place to lay the beast to rest. “I will follow you in in a few minutes once I have seen to the dog.” Trying to lighten the mood a little, he made a little joke. “That way it will give the tea enough time to brew.” It was then that he heard another voice from the window so before he disposed of the creature, within the sack, he looked in the direction of the voice. The sun was in his eyes but he could see a much younger and as equally busty young women who seemed to be enquiring about him. “Yes indeed you do, my dear” he said calmly and with a hint of flirtation in his voice. “I have something quick to do and then I will return to sample your finest tea.” He then walked of with a smile on his face and now by the tree, he eyed up a shade and began to bury the dog. <br><br>It took him around twenty minutes to do the task and after he had finished he had built up quite a sweat and had removed his jacket and tie. Now finished, he picked up his jacket and started to do up his buttons on his shirt. Now back at the house, he knocked before entering as the door was ajar suggesting to him that it was all right for him to enter. Once inside, he sniffed the air to try and gage where the smell of tea and cake was coming from but the conversations to his right made him believe that he should just head in that direction instead. Now at the door to the kitchen, he looked&nbsp; &nbsp;around the door and smiled at the busty and young beauty within. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>14-03-2012, 00:49:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Riding on the estate </strong><br><br>&nbsp;The ride was certainly most enjoyable and invigorating, and as over dinner and breakfast the guests appeared to gossip and chuckle occasionally there was an innuendo but for the most people were well behaved, just as one would expect. The conversations went from the horses, and the beautiful views. Poetry and the arts were discussed as was the mention of various charities that Malsika had become involved in since her arrival in Britain. It appeared that she and her husband were certainly involved in some wonderful philanthropic and compassionate escapades. <br><br>It seemed that Charlotte was not overly impressed however for the most she was able to keep the painted smile as she chatted to those about her. It appeared that both she and the inspector were taking in a good deal. Yes they had ulterior for being at this event; the most perceptive might certainly be aware of that.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>The air here was fresh and certainly far more pleasant that those in the city however for some reason there appeared to be an underlying sensation….one of darkness, one that was somewhat uncomfortable. Some sort of foreboding hung in the air even though the sky was blue and clear. <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>14-03-2012, 01:33:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong> Cooper has tea with milk</strong><br><br>The two women were more than obviously upset at the death of the ‘dog’ but later they would howl and the hose would be aware of their displeasure in their songs. However now was not the time to show their rage, now was the time for planning and understanding, to find links in the darkness that was there. However much rage they felt this man would not suffer at their hands. <br><br>Cooper briefly felt the same sensation that the major had felt when he was close to the dark man. Was there something predatory about her? Surely not…<br><br>He was able to busy the beast and then was invited into the cottage. It was small yes, but there was she smell of home cooking and beer. Possibly even wine and mead brewing. The older woman was folding clothes and the younger was pouring tea out into a cup.<br><br>“So do tell…” she smiled leaning over a little so that Cooper might get a delightful view. “Whats goin’ on with them odd folk up at the big ‘ouse. Mam used to work there didn’t you mam… The large woman nodded and shook her head. “All was fine till the Lady got ill and the gyspy lad disappeared…”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>14-03-2012, 10:05:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks with the young woman over tea</strong><br><br>He did not see the dark man straight away but when he clocked him he felt a little turn in his stomach. His presence was extreme so instead of addressing him he just smiled to the man to not be rude before realising that he should introduce himself. Something he felt he should have done upon arrival but with the issue with the dog he had not had the chance. However, before he had the opportunity, he was welcoming into the kitchen and offered a chair. <br><br>Now sat he was further distracted by the close proximately of the young women's chest as she leaned towards him to talk and pour him some tea. He of course tried his best to look away but where were his eyes to go with such a bounty before him. After she had spoken to him and with her breasts still within fondling distance, he finally looked up at her face and replied. As he spoke, he did his best to tell them what he knew but being a servant himself he could add very little to their current suspicions. "...all I know is whenever we are invited to their little gatherings something awful usually happens." He then elaborated a little. "Did you know that their were several murders at their main estate several weeks back during a so called mummy unwrapping? Also, I have not seen certain servants since then either. Most unusual I have to admit. Do you have any theories yourself? As I am at a loss currently." Still aware that he had not introduced himself, he finally remedied this. "Oh and by the was my name is Harry Cooper, or Cooper for short." He then fell silent for a moment and refocused his attentions to the young woman's breasts once again, who was still standing by him.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>17-03-2012, 13:28:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Cooper might get some crumpet with his tea</strong><br><br>“Well I am not surprised you are at a loss, I believe that the former Lords wife was taken away to be locked up…” The larger woman tutted and shook her head as she started folding some laundry. “She was such a fragile thing, but a lovely woman, always good with the children, and always a kind word for them who worked for hert or lived on the estate. Such a crime to lock her away, and her poor wee ones…lost I suppose without her or their father.”<br><br>Her daughter nodded and tutted too still allowing Cooper to enjoy her ample cleavage as she sat opposite him pouring her own tea. “It is quite shocking…and that darkie wife of the new Lord, now theres a bad un if ever I saw one. There is talk amongst the servants…”<br><br>The dark man passed through the room, limping a little he let out a low grumble’s and then went out into the garden. It was then that the larger woman spoke again. “Now as we chat perhaps you can help me with folding the sheets Mister Cooper.” A smile crossed her lips. “And perhaps we might offer you a couple of baps and a nice crumpet.” Her daughter laughed. <br><br>“So do tell us about the ‘mummy unwrapping’…did you see it? Also who is your man is he dashing gentlemen; I do so love a soldier. They always know how to shoot … but you looks like a man that can handle his gun.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Syene</strong> on <strong>19-03-2012, 01:04:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"The Countess" enjoys her ride</strong><br><br>While Lydia had no particular passion for riding, she was enjoying the conversation with the other guests, making connections that the Countess could put to good use, and flirting subtly with the gentlemen. <br><br>She had a feeling Charlotte had real suspicions about their hostess rather than the typical disdain for a foreigner most people seemed to feel. That suited her fine, as it meant the perceptive woman's attentions would hopefully be directed to someone other than herself. <br><br>While she was enjoying the fresh air and making a bit of a fuss of it in the guise of the countess, there was something that made her uneasy. She wanted to dismiss it as simply the lingering effects of the strange waking dreams she was having, but she couldn't shake the feeling the foreboding was as real as the dreams felt. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>19-03-2012, 15:32:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				[/b] More Riding[/b]<br>The ride continued to be most invigorating for all involved, the fine scents and smells of the English countryside was a great improvement on London, one almost felt it clearing the lungs. Yes if it was that sense that all was not quite right within the house and its grounds it would be idyllic.<br><br>There did appear to those more perceptive that there was ‘secret glances’ passing between a number of the guests, something was being planned perhaps. The Countess could be rather sure that The Lady Charlotte was a part of this in some way.<br><br>Tempest watched on from the back of her horse and was aware of certain tensions&nbsp; as she continued to ride with Robert. Something interesting was certainly going on. It had to be said that it appeared that some of the gueast appeared somewhat different from the norm, in ways which for now were not completely apparent.<br><br>Yes something was a foot and the Doctor and the inspector were perhaps the main instigators in this little matter.<br><br>It appeared that there was a small chaple on the grounds and a numner of grave stones there. It was an old property so that was perhaps nothing too unusual. However that too made a few shiver.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>20-03-2012, 10:13:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks some more with the two ladies</strong><br><br>Cooper drank his tea while listening to them as they filled him in on the local news. He had to admit that the young woman who was ensuring that he had a good view of her cleavage was quite comely. He only looked away when the dark man made a brief entrance back into the kitchen only to leave to venture into the garden.&nbsp; With still plenty of tea to go, while he was being asked about sheet folding, baps and crumpets, Cooper nodded and remarked whilst trying not to choke on his tea upon the suggestion of crumpet. "I would be delighted to assist you and look forward to my reward of baps and crumpets." He laughed when the young woman did sine he of course had picked up on the innuendo and smiled since seeing what bounty the young woman had and indeed what the large woman possessed, either food or sex would be right up his ally. <br><br>Standing up, he looked to see where the sheets needed hanging before adding "Oh yea the mummy unwrapping. No I did not see it but the man you speak of, the Major, was scheduled too. But the body was stolen so no one got to see it in the end." <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>21-03-2012, 12:56:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler introduces himself to Tempest and talks with her and Irina</strong><br><br>Eyeing Tempest and the lovely Irina, just ahead of him, he quickly encouraged his horse to speed up so that he could trot beside them. His plan of course would be to introduce himself to the woman, he would later know as Tempest, and continued the conversation he was having with Irina earlier. He imagined that having the chance to speak with them both as opposed to just one would be a bonus indeed. He had been upset with Cooper for some time now, for letting him down due to his lack of attendance, but perhaps he could find a suitable companion in Irina or indeed this currently unknown Tempest. <br><br>By the time he arrived, next to the two ladies, he was pretty much anger free and the fresh air had put a healthy glow to his cheeks. Before introducing himself, to Tempest, he smiled to Irina and gave her a wink. “Good morning Ladies. It seems we have picked a good day for this little adventure. Wouldn’t you agree?” He then paused to suggest that he was thinking for a moment before continuing to speak. His eyes turned to Tempest for a moment. “Oh so sorry my dear, where are my manners. The name’s Major Tyler Harrington and what pray should I call you?” <br><br>He smiled like he had done to Irina moments before but when his eyes met hers he tried his best to hide his astonishment in regard to the colour of hers. Since it would be rude to point this out, he just looked upon them for a few more seconds before changing the conversation to the day ahead. Before speaking to the ladies he looked away for a moment to take in the scenery and as he did he muttered “Quite captivating”. Whether this was in reaction to those golden eyes or indeed the sight of the countryside, anyone who overheard him could only guess. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>21-03-2012, 23:40:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Cooper and buttered Baps and Crumpet.</strong><br><br>“Goodness but it sounds like rather in event sir…I mean Mister Cooper, most exciting.” The large woman spoke as she started to wring out more laundry. Her hands were large and her arms seemed strong. This was definitely a rather ample matronly type of woman that obviously had a brood of children, thus was healthy in many respects and must have a hearty appetite. <br><br>“Now my girl you better get him those baps we promised , do you like a little something on them or do you prefer them as nature intended?” The large woman chuckled as her daughter offered those soft white rolls to Cooper.<br><br>“Well my lover when I’ve finished my rubbing and wringing, perhaps you might help us with a little pressing of the sheets. That is if you have nothing of more importance to attend to.”<br><br>The younger woman spoke then, “We would not want to keep you from your work…” He was offered a cheeky and tempting smile.”&nbsp; There was a moment of quite as she allowed him to consider the proposition. “And maybe you can tell us a little more about that unwrapping whilst you do your own.”&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>22-03-2012, 20:31:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper squeezes the soft baps</strong><br><br>"It was indeed my good lady but thankfully I came out of it with no more than a flesh wound." Realising by now that most of what was being discussed had an amount of innuendo thrown in for good measure, his attention was soon to move to the baps that had been mentioned to him moments before. <br><br>So when asked how he would like them, he simply added "Oh I would like them as nature intended so I can smear something sweet on them should the need arise later." When offered to him he gave them a light squeeze and smile "They will do nicely my dear. Why don't you place them on the table so I can have a little nibble?" <br><br>He chuckled a little to himself until going silent to listen to what else he was being asked. He then answered the request for him to assist them with the sheet pressing. "I have no reason to rush back so I would be honour to spend the next few hours with you both if you feel that you can keep me occupied enough, since I do not really want to go back to the big house just yet. During the pressing I would be more than happy to tell you anything you want to know. Of course that would depend on how energetic a sheet pressing you have in mind of course?" He chuckled again before sinking his teeth into the first of two baps.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>23-03-2012, 13:46:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>A Hand Upstairs</strong><br><br>The two women chuckled as Cooper joined in with all of the innuendo, they even pretended to be a little shocked they of course they were not as it was they that initiated it. “My mother I do so love a man that can appreciate fine white baps especially those that know when to add a little extra there.” She leaned over a little more and thus showed some of her own delightful wears.<br><br>“Oh my.” the older woman answered “And he certainly knows how to handle them as well.”&nbsp; There was another chuckle, “I do so fancy a nice crumpet myself and perhaps a nice fresh sausage for my lunch.”&nbsp; There was some more hilarity as the mother spoke. “Oh mother what will this fine gentleman think of us?”<br><br>The both went back to folding a few sheets and laundering other linen in a bucket. Cooper briefly noticed there was something that could be blood on there but it was difficult for one to be sure, even one as perceptive as him.<br><br>Once he had finished his tasty bread produce, the younger ne smiled. Well perhaps you can come upstairs and give us a hand?” Her mother added and we might give you one…” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>24-03-2012, 15:09:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper talks of crumpets and sausages</strong><br><br>Biting into the bap, he soon consumed it before wondering if he should do the same to the ones attached to the younger of the two women, since she seemed to like to tease him with her ample cleavage. <br><br>He joined in with a chuckle of his own when it was stated that he knew what to do with his food. He wondered if she was also referring to the possibly of handing more appealing fruits so he finished his food and stood when she mentioned crumpet and sausage. When the younger one asked her mother what Cooper might think of hearing their banter, he felt the need to reassure them that he was the right man for such talk. However, before he opened his mouth he noticed a dark stain upon one of the sheets that they were folding. He did not comment since he was not entirely sure what it was and besides all this talk of sex made him not care to much anyway. So instead, when asked if he could help them with something upstairs, he smiled and said "Absolutely, I assume you still need to flatten the sheets after all. To put it mildly I am all yours." <br><br>As they walked, he added "I have to admit that crumpet is by far my favourite treat at this time of day and if you like I can show you both how best to add a sausage to the mix. You know one of those large tasty ones that just slides in the mouth?" He slapped the young one's backside playfully as he said this.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>25-03-2012, 21:27:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Riding and Conversations </strong><br>Charlotte was obviously and experienced rider, who knew if it was just of horses. She was also the queen or at least the princess of small talk should it be necessary. After finishing a discussion with both the Inspector and her hunting partner she joined the Major Tyler. “My good Major, What a fine beast you have there…” There was a chuckle, the Lady continued. “I see you are missing your man, he is not sick is he? I do hope not. I know what a blasted trouble it can be.” Though keeping it light Charlotte really wanted to know just how much Tyler knew.<br><br>Her attentions were then on Tempest and the Countess, also Robert was in her sight. “Darling Robert, it has been an absolute age, I must apologise about missing your latest works, I do hope it went well.” There was a pause, “Please introduce me to your delightful friend, which of course he did in a most proper manner.<br><br>The Countess was then brought into the conversation, as Charlotte was quite the social butterfly. “I trust you are enjoying our lush green lands, they are so beautiful this time of year do you not think?” The Lady raised her eyebrow continuing to smile politely. “Might I ask how you are finding the house? I do hope that our hostess is not so unwell that she cannot enjoy the event.<br><br>“Oh my will you look at that Chaple…how exciting… she continued.<br><br>Lord Winterstone&nbsp; had been chatting to some of the other guests, but now appeared concerned as the Chaple came into view he had not wanted to come in this direction, but for some reason it appeared he had become lost in conversation, even though he was always so meticulous. This troubled him.<br><br>The Inspector continued chatting to the doctor, waiting for him to go and meet up with Cooper, little knowing that Cooper was already somewhat busy aiding two ‘ladies’ in their household chores. “There is something strange about that place,” Johnny nodded towards the chapel, indeed a couple of the horses appeared to be getting a little skittish.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>26-03-2012, 12:06:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong> Linen and Canasta</strong><br><br>The three went upstairs and nothing more was seen of them, however voices drifted down into the kitchen and out of the open windows upstairs. <br><br><strong>“Oh Goodness Mister Cooper, you certainly know your way around those sheets. You know the way to a woman’s heart.”</strong><br><br><strong>“And other places.”</strong> This was followed by giggle s and chuckles as well as a few sequels of<strong> “Oooooooooooh Mister Cooper you are really spoiling us”</strong><br><br><strong>“You must have been a gentleman that was in the army,”</strong><br><br>The two women continued and many interesting noises could be heard in the process of&nbsp; sorting out the bedroom and the linen.<br><br><strong>“Ooh my yes with a good deal of experience in the forces. We know your type…I’ll bet you can be naughty too…”</strong> There were the sounds then of squeaking bed springs and the occasional bang of a head board against one of the thick walls.<br><br><strong> “I bet he can use his gun…oooh and a ram rod too.”<strong><br><br><strong>“Do you think that you might plump some pillows for us?”</strong><br></strong></strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>grovercjuk</strong> on <strong>27-03-2012, 23:50:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark leaned down and patted the horse reassuring it and then he looked towards the chapel. “Really, ghosts and goblins in a house of the Lord? I would have expected such a place to be a place to be free of malign influences not a place of them.”<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He turned the horses head, “Come on Inspector let us visit this chapel and see for our selves.” Then as he moved past the Inspector heading towards the chapel he added softly for his ears. “Give us an excuse to tarry.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>28-03-2012, 11:29:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Naughty Horses</strong><br><br>The inspector gave an almost imperceptible nod to Mark, briefly his eyes turned to the Lady Charlotte who it seemed was busy in conversation momentarily looked around seeming to understand what was going on. She continued chatting to the major in a most entertaining manner.<br><br>It was then that the inspector’s horse started to buck and shy, shaking its head and whinnying somewhat. It reared then and Johnny fell from the beast crying out with pain as he ‘twisted’ his ankle as he fell to the ground. The horse cantered a little distance away and then stopped. Thought its eyes still rolled a little in fear.<br><br>Robert appeared a little unsure of what to do but asked that the good Doctor might help the inspector. Though not altogether happy about leaving the two alon, he knew he had to keep up appearances. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>28-03-2012, 16:28:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper rearranges the sheets and pillows</strong><br><br>The words from both woman only serves to aid him in their pursuits. He of course found new and original ways to flatten the sheets not to mention feeling quite content with his pillow fluffing technique. He was amused that this required that he removed all his clothing but when in the country do as the country folk do, he thought, as he focused on the next task presented to him, which involved testing the bedsprings. To begin with it was just him and the younger of the two women but to get a true idea of the strength of the bed he felt that it was important that her mother join too. He suggested that they both were naked since the weight of the clothes might just be too much for the bed to handle. <br><br>The bed indeed coped well enough with the rhythmic testing and after he released his need to remain on the bed into the mother, he stood up and assisted the daughter with testing the wear and tear of the wall paper behind her. Again it was most ingenious in how he did this by having her wrap her legs around his waist and supporting her while he returned to his former glory. It did, however, prove to be advantageous for them both since as soon as she had her back against the wall, he helped her reach the same state as her mother moments before.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>By the time they had finished, he had worked up quite a sweat. So now finally free, he put his clothes back on and asked "Is there anything else that you require of me before I take my leave?" He was hoping that they would say yes, but he understood if they were beat.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>28-03-2012, 16:39:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler and Lady Charlotte converse</strong><br><br>While he waited for Tempest to reply, he was distracted for a moment by Charlotte, who had just moved to his side. "Why thank you Lady Charlotte, yours is a find beast too. As for Cooper I am not overly sure but I can do without him this once I am sure of that." He seemed upset at the mention of his man, but his mood soon returned back to normal when he was ready to speak again. However, seeing that she was already addressing the others, he waited his turned to address her once again. <br><br>Soon that time did come but was interrupted once again by the inspector’s horse as it reared up which made the inspector fell from the beast. He felt like he should stay behind with him but before he made the suggestion, the doctor being on hand changed him mind since he realised that he would not be needed. He smiled at Charlotte and continued on with the riding and conversation.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>01-04-2012, 18:00:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Cooper is worked very hard</strong><br><br>Well the bed was certainly stretched to its limits, though it was a sturdy oak one that had likely&nbsp; &nbsp;been tested for a good number of years and had endured a good deal of wear. The truth be told, there had been many interesting and very physical adventures that a good deal of gentlemen had enjoyed.<br><br>The sounds from upstairs were certainly loud and one might think that someone was hammering up on wall or pining up pictures, or indeed moving furniture from the crashes and ‘bangs’ that were going on upstairs.<br><br>“Well it seems that you have worked yourself in to rather a lather Mister Cooper.”<br><br>“Yes it does…indeed…”<br><br>“Perhaps we can draw you a nice sooth bath after all the help and hard work you have offered.”<br><br>We haven’t had a man that works so hard in a long time.”<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Senti</strong> on <strong>01-04-2012, 19:23:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>More Riding and Converstaions.</strong><br><br>Charlotte was also shocked at what went on or at least appeared so, though Lord Winterstone was not keen on leaving those two alone, the man did not to create any trouble or draw anymore attention to the place. Hopefully the Doctor would insist that they returned to the house.<br><br>The rather ‘pretty‘ young man Robert caught up with Tyler, “A major you say, how exciting where did you serve. Unfortunately I was not able to join up, which I certainly regret. I must also press you at some point on the matter of the Mummy unwrapping. It was quite the talk of the City, it would make a wonderful base for an idea I have for a new play. Of course Charlotte has filled me in with sme details, however I like to get a number of perspectives.<br><br>The young man appeared most pleasant company if a little effeminate. “So do you think there might be another mystery here, I here there was talk of large dogs last night…though perhaps it was just servants and their over active imaginations. What say you my good fellow.”<br><br>&nbsp;The horses&nbsp; seemed to calm a little more once away from the old chaple. It had to be said that the area around, was certainly mosr beautiful and one was certainly able to enjoy the fragrant air and enjoy the most senic surroundings. Still there were a few guests that still had a sense of forboding, a dark cloud that hung in the air as if trying to block out bright light of day.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>02-04-2012, 11:36:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/305takehim2-1.jpg)</div><strong>Cooper accepts the advice of the two women</strong><br><br>With the words of the two women suggesting that he should perhaps remain with them for a little bit longer, he did just that and smiled as he pulled down his southern necessities and under garments for them to show him where he might best get cleaned up. “Yes I think you might be right there ladies. It would not do for me to return smelling as I do, so perhaps I could enlist either of you good women to assist me in my cleaning or indeed perhaps just the one if one of you needs to get back to your duties of the day? I might even go as far to say that joining me in bathing would be beneficial for us all since it would save having the water go to waste. Wouldn’t you agree?” <br><br>He gave them both a wink before adding “Please lead the way since standing here naked as I am might give you the wrong idea.” He smiled before looking down at it already rigid appendage. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re:  A Cordial Invitation (The Shooting Weekend)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cadavar</strong> on <strong>03-04-2012, 17:01:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd468/sybakrys/Tyler/dorian-gray2.jpg)</div><strong>Tyler and Robert converse</strong><br><br><br>With a natural break in the conversation with Charlotte, Tyler admired the view of the surrounding area and the many curvaceous ladies within his presence. When Robert spoke to him to begin with his mind was elsewhere but it soon caught up with what Robert was asking of him. "Oh India mostly, he informed and recently Ireland too. In regard to the mummy I would be happy to tell you what happened when we get a moment to do so, but if the good Lady Charlotte has already added her perspective I am not sure how I can expand any further on that, but then again you never know." <br><br>Tyler gave him a smile expecting a moment of silent but the man did not stop. Not that he minded of course since Robert seemed pleasant enough, so he listened intently, when not admiring the legs of the women in the party and when he went silent once again he added "I have to say that I must have missed the dogs since I went to bed early." This of course was a lie since he has snuck off in search of Lady Rowena, but the last thing on his mind was any big dogs so at least he was honest on that point. "My man Cooper if you can find him, might be able to eliminate you in that regard. So until you do, I have to say that there is no mystery here, well not from where I am standing anyway." <br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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