Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H] GAME THREAD
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Haibane on 26-06-2008, 22:50:58</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>26-06-2008, 22:50:58</strong>
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				(http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk137/HaibaneR/Island01.jpg)<br><br>(http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk137/HaibaneR/Island02.jpg)<br><br>(http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk137/HaibaneR/VillaSmith01.jpg)<br><br>(http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk137/HaibaneR/VillaSmith02.jpg)<br><br>LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>(http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk137/HaibaneR/LouiseAvatar.jpg)<br><br>I rested my chin on my elbow and my elbow on the bus window rim and let the scenery slide by my small tired cone of consciousness.<br><br>It was early afternoon and as usual on this small Mediterranean island at the cruel peak of summer the sun bore wonderfully down and the crickets rattled in the dry grasses. Here and there the bleached scrub bushes, and dusty olive and citrus groves were relieved by the verdant green of well irrigated lawns, the inviting cerulean of swimming pools and the warm russets of earthern roof tiles as expansive and beautiful villas nestled in secretive hollows along this part of the coast, all of which was divided up into well fenced private plots.<br><br>The bus drew to a dusty halt and I stepped down, taking a few paces back as it pulled away in a cloud of hot air and blue exhaust. When it had gone peace reigned. Picking up my large cloth bag which contained <em>me</em>, all of me, everything I owned, which wasn't much, I crossed the road to the impressive wrought iron gates. Beyond them down the descending twisting driveway that curled enticingly out of sight nothing could be seen of the villa which lay lower down on a small promotory just above the sea and its own beach and boat dock.<br><br>I pushed my large white sun hat back on my head and pressed a button on the gatepost.<br><br>A brief conversation followed with an elderly voice which spoke in and sounded English. I converted from French to my sing-song FrAnglais easily enough and seconds later the gate whirred open.<br><br>* * * * * * * * * *<br><br>I reached the front door of the very pretty red roof-tiled and whitewash-walled villa nestling under lemon trees and a stunning pink-blossomed bougainvillea. I rang the bell and the door was shortly opened.<br><br><strong>"Bonjour, je m'appelle Louise DesJardins, je sont venus au sujet du travail?"<br><br>"Oh! Pardon... uh, excuse me. Je suis désolé. I am here for the job? The maid? Please?"</strong>
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				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>27-06-2008, 19:39:28</strong>
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				The door opened to reveal a rather appealing young woman, standing on the step with a small cloth bag in her hands. When she was done speaking I favoured her with a small polite smile. "Je parle un peu de français, ma'amselle." The accent, so I am told, is Parisian. I regret I've had little enough opportunity to travel and compare. "But the language of the house, unless otherwise instructed, is English."<br><br>I took a moment to inspect her ... yes, very nice indeed, but then I've never cared for that supermodel look. A real woman has curves, and should not have to look like a pencil to attract someone. Still, I'm not paid to woolgather. "If you'll come with me to the pantry I shall inspect your particulars. If all is in order, I will take you to meet the master and mistress of the house. I am Carstairs, the gentleman's gentleman, or butler if you prefer a simpler term. Now please gather your things and follow me."<br><br>Once through the door I close it behind her, and lead her into the bowels of the house. A fancifull thought, but when one has served in an actual castle, a small villa like this is something of a change. The butler's pantry is something of a misnomer too ... it is an office, sometimes an office and living quarters in one. In this case, just a small office. It takes only a minute or two to reach, but affords a brief look at the house for our prospective new member of staff.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>27-06-2008, 23:32:58</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>As we entered the house I was struck at once by the temperature: whitewashed walls, stone flagged floors, some covered with bright rugs that looked Moroccan or Persian and large potted plants all combined to form a wonderful sense of calm, cool and clarity. There was even a small pebbled water feature chuckling away on a pedestal in the main hall, adding to the sense of detachment from, and contrast to, the furnace outside. A wide red-tiled staircase with a black metal rail at one side of the entrance hall promised access to the upper parts of the house. Against the same wall and directly beneath, it a further stair led to gloomy unknown depths. One or two spectacular bold abstract canvases adorned the walls and I tried to get a look at these but had no time to pause as we went by.<br><br>The gentleman with the white and black hair who had introduced himself as Carstairs, the butler, was English and I assumed would be my immediate boss, should my application be accepted. We spoke a short exchange at the doorway and then, mentally trying my best to shift gear to English speech, I followed him obediently and quickly while dawdling just enough to look around me in wonder at this beautiful house.<br><br>We entered a side passage off the main rooms and then a small office with desk, chair, safe, bookcases and such. I closed the door behind me and put my bag by the wall, wondering if I should sit but deciding not to unless I was invited. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>29-06-2008, 19:14:52</strong>
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				Settling into the seat facing the door, I called up the file on the young woman that stood before me. Fairly sparse on information, but enough of the essentials are there to see that she does seem at least a prospect.<br><br>My eyes rise from the computer screen to her, to find her still standing, and I can feel my lips curl into a smile. Good. She has some manners at least. I wave my hand to the chair opposite me. "Sit, mademoiselle, sit. You may find yourself able to do little enough of that if we take you on." I smile at her, to put her at her ease. No doubt she thinks I'm making at joke about her being run ragged with work. I'm thinking about her bent over that chair, short skirt flipped up, and a bare rear presented to the world .. or at least to me. Yes, I'd like to run my fingers over that little peach, and see how ripe it is.<br><br>I sit back in my chair, steepling my fingers in front of me, regarding her silently. "Tell me of yourself mademoiselle DesJardins. What prompted you to offer yourself here?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>30-06-2008, 21:42:25</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Tell me of yourself mademoiselle DesJardins. What prompted you to offer yourself here?"</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> I sat, tucking my skirt under then placing hands on lap, <strong> “Merci, monsieur. Well, um, I am a, how is the Eenglish? A <em>free agent</em>, oui? No family, able to relocate quickly, in fact if I am acceptable to you I can start at once. I have done maid work before in hotels, you should have my Cee-Vee on file I hope? If not I have another copy wiz me.”<br><br>“Um… I have done plenty of bar and restaurant work, I can cook and sew. I enjoy serving. I mean not at table, I enjoy serving <em>others</em> it pleases me to please others, oui? You understand?”<br><br>“I am tidy and patient and quiet as a mouse when silence is required.” <br><br>“And I have a patron of sorts, a recommendation. A gentleman acquaintance of Monsieur <em>Smeeth</em>, whom I met in Montmartre. I am… unsure if I should say his name.”</strong> I finished off rather lamely, not at all sure if Monsieur Marc had been quite as legitimate an associate as was wise to reveal to this stern looking gentleman. Out of sight of my interviewer, my fingers fiddled with my skirt.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>01-07-2008, 23:18:42</strong>
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				<em>So, you enjoy serving others do you, little mouse?</em> The thought flits across my mind, but doesn't show on my face. Years of training and self discipline can give one almost perfect control over their expression. <em>Well, that opens up some possibilities, doesn't it?</em><br><br>I rise from the chair, walking around to the other side of the table, walking slowly around her, examining every inch of her. <em>Yes, quite a tasty little morsel indeed.</em> By the time I return to her front my expression is controlled again, and I stand perhaps a foot away, gazing down on her. Her fingers are twitching slightly on the edges of her dress. She wants to play with it, but is trying not to.<br><br>Silence is a powerfull tool. Some people cannot abide it, and used properly it may make them uncomfortable. I expect this is the case as I look down on her. Yes, her breathing is starting to pick up a little, the fingers curling. She is nervous.<br><br><em>Good.</em><br><br>"Bar work and maid service in a hotel are the bare tip of duties. If one is in service, it is a far different thing to simply working in a hotel." I allow myself an exhalation of breath. Does that sound like a sigh to you, little mouse? Are you afraid your qualifications do not measure up before this hard taskmaster? "If ..." I hold up a finger in front of her. ".. if I choose to take you on, then I am responsible for your training, your behaviour, and your skills. My discipline is harsh, but it turns out exceptional individuals. Do you believe you are such an individual?"<br><br>I pause for a moment, before speaking again.<br><br>"What are you willing to do for this opportunity?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>02-07-2008, 01:53:09</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>I sat there as he got up and walked around me. The temptation to turn my head and keep him in sight was very great but I resisted, trying to keep my cool. As he came around I made my fingers keep still, but a few seconds later my nerves broke out again and he must have seen me edgily fiddling with my skirt.<br><br>I did not look up at him when he stopped very close by, and I imagined, stared down at me.<br><br>He was like an army officer inspecting a soldier, he made me uneasy. I was reminded of Réné the owner of the Café Bruxelles by the Parc Monceau where I'd worked in the spring. He was odd too, and would stand near me a lot. Just... looking... I'd be washing glasses or laying tables and he'd be nearby, silently... looking. It bothered me.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"If ..." <em>he paused, I looked up,</em> ".. if I choose to take you on, then I am responsible for your training, your behaviour, and your skills. My discipline is harsh, but it turns out exceptional individuals. Do you believe you are such an individual?"</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> I look up and smile, <strong>"Mai, oui! I want to work hard, I can do that!"</strong><br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"What are you willing to do for this opportunity?"</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> I frowned, <em>what does that mean?</em> Then I realised I really wanted this job, it was perfect, down in the harbour and on the mainland there were lots of fashionable boutiques and art galleries and this coast was so inspiring. <em>I want to paint! And Draw! And here I can sell my work, be recognised!</em><br><br><strong>"I'm willing to do anything to work to your satisfaction, monsieur."</strong> I finished, smiling up at him confidently, my nerves dissipating.<br><br><em>Just you wait until you see what I can do, You'll be surprised!</em> 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>03-07-2008, 01:31:56</strong>
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				<em>Eager.</em><br><br>I look down on her, letting the silence stretch. "Very well. I am going to test you. If your performance is satisfactory, I will grant you the opportunity you wish. If it is not ... well, we shall see what happens then."<br><br>We received word that she might seek us out, so a maids uniform has been prepared. It may not be an exact fit, but it should be close, if perhaps a little on the short side. Still, nothing wrong with that, now is there.<br><br>"Wait here a moment." It takes only a minute to fetch the uniform from where it currently resides. <br><br>"Here you are. If you are to serve, you will dress the part. Whether you will retain it remains to be seen."<br><br>I hand her the uniform and lean back against the desk. <em>First test, little mouse.</em>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>03-07-2008, 01:55:47</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>There's something about his words, the way he says things. His sentences seem to hang in the air almost, as though daring me to respond before he's finished. I feel like I'm being dared to do something... and he's hoping I'll do the wrong thing. And... it bothers me but I don't know why that is.<br><br>He mentions a uniform and then goes to get it, passing it to me. It's no problem, I assumed there would be one. And the fact he's offering me one is a good sign... isn't it? Hm... I think so...<br><br>I don't look at it closely, though the skirt looks a little short. Mind you I've worn short things in some of the bars. The owners like it, the customers like it. I would not say I like it exactly but it's not a problem for me. What is a problem though is how this gentleman has stood back nonchalantly watching me. I frown at him momentairily then assume he's testing me.<br><br><strong>"Mai, oui, pas un problème!"<br><br>"Uh, have you a room I may change please?"</strong>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>03-07-2008, 02:12:24</strong>
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				"You may change here. Your things will be quite safe left here til we are finished with our test."<br><br>I stand, walking around the desk to the computer, bringing up one or two things to check. No, no company tonight. I was sure there wasn't, but always best to check. The dining room will be available to use, and the silver service as well. Let's see if our little mouse knows anything of the finer arts of service.<br><br>I flick through the cameras, but there is nothing special going on in the house at present. Also good. No interuptions. I enable the camera in this room, focusing it on her, and set it to record. Let's see how she dresses. Does something wild lurk beneath that plain little sun dress?<br><br>I lock the PC, the monitor darkening, and turn back to her. "Since there seems to be nothing that requires my immediate attention, we shall begin in the dining room. I will await you outside."<br><br>A small nod, and I leave, pulling the door behind me, taking a step or two away and settling to wait. She should not be long.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Upstairs, Downstairs][BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>03-07-2008, 22:20:47</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>He went out and I looked at the door, making sure it was closed. It had a lock but no key. His desk chair was the wrong kind to push under the handle to trap it. <em>Ah! You’re being silly! He won’t come in! This is a domestics job, not one of those weird Paris bar-club jobs…</em><br><br>I looked again at the uniform. Um… it didn’t seem too bad, a full knee length skirt and a high collar, long sleeves and a pretty apron. There was even a little cotton cap. It needed some hose to set it off and black shoes but… oh wait! I had my only decent pair of formal shoes in my bag. I lifted the bag to the desk and got them out, bending my legs back in turn behind me and slipping my flat deck-shoes off and putting them by the door.<br><br><em>Now then…</em> I hung the dress up on the door hook and reaching up between my shoulder blades drew the zip of the orange sundress down, shrugging out of it and folding it onto a spare chair. I wore a plain thin white bra and panties set under it, a little sheer, perfect in this hot weather. The panties were very brief, a half-back and string sides… I stood on tippy-toe and took the dress off it’s hanger, stepping into it from the back, my back to the desk, putting my arms in the sleeves in turn and zipping up, closing the high collar at the back of the neck with its hooks and eyes. I pushed my feet into my low heeled court shoes and adjusted the apron and all the white frilly bits. Finally I put the white cap on my head. It had a wire base and lightly gripped the hair much like a hairband. The outfit definitely needed some black hose. Or white. Yes, white would look pretty with it.<br><br><em>Ha! I’m a maid!</em><br><br>I tidied everything away, hanging my sundress on the uniform hanger and putting my big floppy white hat over it and opened the door, stepping out to find the butler in the corridor outside. I smoothed my hands down the apron, patting out some folds in the skirt and smiled at him.<br><br><strong>“So, Monsieur. I mean <em>Sir</em>, what would you like me to do for you?”</strong> Lifting the wide skirt hems I dipped down, adding a little curtsey as a flourish.<br><br>(http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk137/HaibaneR/Maid01_75pct.jpg)
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>04-07-2008, 00:21:27</strong>
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				As the door opens I look round, our little mouse in her new uniform. I give a small nod. She's look better with stockings on her legs, but that can come later. <br><br>"Follow me, Ma'amselle DesJardins. Since one of your most public duties will be attending a dinner, we shall evaluate your knowledge of a formal setting." We walk through the house to the dining room, the large ornate table dominating the room, and the I lift a set of silverwear from out of one of the cupboards that line the walls.<br><br>Setting it on the top of the cupboard and opening it, I turn back to her. "The master and mistress are entertaining, a close friend who has arrived to stay for a few days. You will set the table for three." The table was easily long enough to accommodate twice that many, or more. "To begin with, a small appetiser of local soup, freshly made. This will be followed by seafood, fresh fish and accompanying greens. After that, a selection of cheeses, and coffee to finish."<br><br>I step to the side of the silverware service, folding my hands in front of me. "You may begin."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>04-07-2008, 00:34:57</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>Without even thinking I laid the table for the size and type of meal he mentioned, taking the kinds of dishes into account, even placing the settings close together in an informal manner as would befit a good friend of the master and mistress.<br><br>I commented that as the master had not selected a wine I was unable to suggest if a silver wine cooler would be needed or not.<br><br>I worked at the theme park hotel and they would entertain hundreds in their formal dining room for weddings, conferences and balls. This I could do in my sleep.<br><br>When I finished I removed the thin white cotton gloves I had used so that the polished silverware did not receive any blemishes from the natural oils in my skin.<br><br>I didn't convey a smug air but merely awaited his next instruction.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>04-07-2008, 01:07:43</strong>
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				<em>It seems you have hidden depths, little mouse. I must say, I had not thought this would be such an easy task for you.</em> I check the setting carefully, nodding in satisfaction at the placement.<br><br>"What wine would you suggest suitable for this meal?" I enquire. "And would you serve the same one with the fish as the cheese? Could you select cheeses that would compliment the wine?"<br><br>"Another guest has turned up unexpectedly as the meal is beginning. How do you adjust things for this?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>04-07-2008, 21:51:22</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"What wine would you suggest suitable for this meal? And would you serve the same one with the fish as the cheese? Could you select cheeses that would compliment the wine?"</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> I paused and thought hard. <em>Is this a trick? Selecting wine and cheeses is his job.</em> I looked at him a little nervously wondering if this was really the sort of task I’d have here, my finger strayed to my lips. <em>Ummm…</em><br><br><strong>“Um… I’m not sure monsieur, ahh… I’m not a great wine drinker… white, obviously and something crisp and light if the fish is oily… but I don’t really know. I think a dessert wine is always correct in the better households like this isn’t it? Something sparkling perhaps with the cheese… but really I must confess, we are beyond what I learned before now.”</strong><br><br>I couldn’t stand there and tell him it was his job to do this, <em>so... how to get round it and be polite?</em><br><br><strong>“Where I worked before we had a head of cellar who would always select the wines, and of course a similar senior person to choose the menus… I’m not familiar with it beyond knowing what I like personally. Haha, I just like soft cheese myself, a nice runny Camembert perhaps? Maybe not a strong blue cheese with fish? Too powerful a flavour.”<br><br>“But I’m sure I can learn quickly!”</strong> I added brightly, smiling at him, <strong>“You know what you are doing, I’ll learn from you!”</strong><br><br>He went on to suggest a late arriving dinner guest. That was easier.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Another guest has turned up unexpectedly as the meal is beginning. How do you adjust things for this?"</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> <strong>“It’s an informal gathering so I do not think the diners would mind if a new guest arrived, they would either step away from the table to greet them or the staff should just add a new setting as needed as invisibly and quickly as possible, they would know of course, since a gentleman such as yourself would have advised them.”<br><br>“On which side would depend on the gender of the new arrival. Homme et femme I think, n’est pas?”<br><br>“And I think… um… it would be a casual visitor, a formal guest would never arrive unannounced, in fact I think no guest would come at such an inconvenient time unexpectedly. Yes! That’s my answer!”</strong><br><br><em>Was that right? I hope so.<br><br>Ugh, and I thought I’d just hoover and dust!</em>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>06-07-2008, 01:06:29</strong>
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				"You are right, mademoiselle, that selecting the wines is not normally part of a maids service. However ..." he held up two fingers. "First, each person brings something new to this household. You might be familiar with wines, drinks, recipes that we have not encountered before, and broadening ones palate is never a bad thing. Who knows, a favourite of yours may turn out highly regarded, and that is to your benefit. Secondly, I assume you would aspire to something more than a simple server of food and cleaner of homes, hmm? If you receive the proper tutelage here, who knows where you might find yourself in years to come."<br><br>"Is that something you feel you would desire?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>06-07-2008, 02:40:22</strong>
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				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Is that something you feel you would desire?"</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> I stood there, my mouth hanging open... I closed it after a while with an audible <em>glup!</em><br><br><em>He's... <span class="bbc_u">trusting</span> me with adding my knowledge to his? To what the owners might want?</em> I was stunned, before in the hotel chain it had been 'do this, do that, carry these, wash those...' and no initiative allowed, in fact if you spoke out of turn you were looked down on as a brown noser or trying to steal someone else's job...<br><br>In my amazement I stood there... for several seconds I did nothing but fish impersonations.<br><br>Then I curtseyed very low, <strong>"Mai oui! Naturellement! Um, I mean... very much, I would like that. That kind of trust and respect... I've never been given that before."</strong> I beamed at him.<br><br><em>I like you Mr. Carstairs, is the owner as nice as you?</em>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>06-07-2008, 15:47:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Given the jobs you have listed, that does not surprise me in the slightest." I replied, smiling faintly at the deer in headlights look she was giving. "This ..." I gestured to the room around us ".. is an entirely different type of employment. I am sure that in your old job, you were thought of as simply another cog in a machine, one that should do its job, and be discarded and replaced should it not prove satisfactory. Here, it is different."<br><br>I paused, letting my words sink in for her. "I will not say you will find this as easy as your previous job. I am not an easy person to satisfy, but if you can show you are capable, then you shall have respect and more."<br><br>"Now, let us retire to the kitchen. I believe the cook at the markets, so you may give me your impressions of our larders, and if you wish to make suggestions of ingredients or dishes, you may do so. Tell me, mademoiselle, do you cook?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>06-07-2008, 16:44:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>We went along another short corridor and into the kitchen. This room surprised me as unlike the mood of the other parts of the house I’d seen so far here it was ultra modern, very clean and wonderfully efficient looking, everything bright and shiny and well laid out. A large window looked out onto part of the garden and hillside facing away from the sea, there was a door out to the back and immediately outside a small walled garden where herbs and vegetables grew. A few free range hens wandered about clucking happily.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Tell me, mademoiselle, do you cook?"</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> I blushed a little, <strong>“Well, yes, but only for one. I do vegetarian mainly, and salads, I like to watch what I eat, though as a child my mother was an excellent cake maker so I know a little of cakes and pastries but I’ve not baked at all since leaving home.”</strong> I patted my tummy with one hand to indicate that I had no desire to.<br><br><strong>“I don’t think though that my skills would add anything to what your usual cook can produce.”</strong><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>06-07-2008, 20:10:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Probably not." I replied. "Our cook is something of a character .. he considers himself an artist, rather than simply a cook, with the food his palette. He's very good at what he does, which is why his foibles are tolerated." I smiled again, having endured more than one of the outburst of histrionics this kitchen had seen. Still, if you play to them, it only encourages more. <br><br>"Let me show you around the rest of the house, and let us see what duties you can recognise yours, shall we?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>06-07-2008, 20:15:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Let me show you around the rest of the house, and let us see what duties you can recognise yours, shall we?"<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div> <strong>"Oui, monsieur!"</strong> I gave a little curtsey-bounce and hands clasped together in front of me waited for him to lead the way.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hanna</strong> on <strong>09-07-2008, 08:09:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				I adjusted the position of my backpack and kept on walking. <em>It shouldn't be far now,</em> i thought, glancing down at the black letters written in neat, tiny print on the back of my hand, for what must have been the hundredth time. If only i had enough money to buy a taxi to the villa, but no, at the moment i was completely broke, and this was one factor for taking up the job of maid, despite the fact i had no experience. That and the whole idea turned me on, just a little though. <em>No, it was because i was broke, nothing else</em> i thought forcible. Anything else was just a little <em>embarrassing</em> to admit, even to myself. <br><br>As i turned the corner i saw it. Well not really it, only glimpses of it in the distance, hidden behind trees and other things. No what greeted me was a huge iron gate, with its twisting and turning strands of metal. Just a little intimidating. I walked up to the gate and found a button on the gate and pressed it, in turn a voice, slightly crackly with static answered back and the gate opened with a gentle <em>buzz</em><br><br>I walked up the windy driveway and an ornate wooden door greeted me. I knocked twice and was answered by a man, and what looked like a butler. <br><br><strong>"Good morning, I am here for the maid's position."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>12-07-2008, 01:50:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A beep from the direction of my pocket drew both our eyes down, and I fetched out a small device, about the size of a largish phone. It does handle phone calls, but a fair bit more than that too. I raise a finger towards the young mademoiselle, and tap a command. <br><br>"It would seem we have another visitor. I'm afraid we must cut our tour short for the moment, at least til we see what is required of us. Shall we?" I nod towards the front door, and set off.<br><br>Opening it, there is another young woman there. Before I can enquire as to her purpose here, she answers the question herself. "I see." I reply, opening the door and gesturing her to enter. I wonder how she'll react when she sees little mouse in a uniform already? "Might I enquire as to how you were directed here?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>12-07-2008, 02:01:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br>Following our interrupted tour of the house and my potential duties I said nothing but merely nodded and smiled at the butler. As he went to the front door I followed, this took us via a different route through the house and I was able to marvel at new rooms.<br><br>When we got to the door I stood back and stayed quiet, my hands clasped in front of me. I was conscious that this uniform looked most odd with bare legs, it really needed some hose to set it off…<br><br>As the person at the door spoke in English I looked at her, <em>another applicant for the job. Oh!</em> Taller than I and slimmer, with auburn hair, shorter than mine. In case she should notice me I let a smile grow on my face in readiness to greet her. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mintychan</strong> on <strong>13-07-2008, 00:46:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				ALEXIA SMITH<br><br>I hurried downstairs, smoothing my knee-length white skirt as I went. To be disorganized today of all days! I expected Carstairs had things well in hand, but I had hoped to be ready before our prospects arrived...<br>Pausing in front of the hall mirror for a final check of my appearance, I adjusted my sky-blue blouse, gave my reflection a smile and strode off down the hall toward the front door.<br><br>I could see Carstairs standing at the door and a girl next to him, already in maids' attire. She looked quite nice, with her long black hair against the blue-and-white of the uniform.&nbsp; I couldn't see who Carstairs was speaking to; perhaps another job-seeker?<br><br>"Ah, Carstairs!" I said upon reaching him, glancing from the black-haired girl then over his shoulder to the one at the door (it seemed my earlier assumption was right). "I see you've been kept busy. Who do we have here?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>13-07-2008, 02:10:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				CARSTAIRS<br><br>"Good afternoon, ma'am." I turn in response to the voice, giving a slight bow, little more than a formal nod of the head, but the proprieties should always be observed. "Please permit me to introduce mademoiselle Louise DeJardins." I extend my hand towards the girl. "She is, as I am sure you have gathered, applying for a position of service within the household." <br><br>"As is .." and I turn back towards the newcomer at the door, pausing. "My apologies, I do not believe we have been properly introduced yet. Would you be so kind as to make yourself known to us?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Upstairs, Downstairs [BON][NC-H][EX] GAME THREAD </strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Haibane</strong> on <strong>13-07-2008, 09:28:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				LOUISE DESJARDINS<br><br><strong>“Bonjour Madame,”</strong> I dip down in a deep curtsey to the lady of the house, after Carstairs has introduced me, smiling and trying my best not to be nervous, though I am, everything is riding on me getting this job. I’m still conscious that I’m not dressed right, the shoes are too low as well.<br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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