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Post by Deleted on Aug 30, 2017 18:57:37 GMT
With the final touches in place, Calista roamed about the property, the fading light bringing her vision to life. She stood with her housekeeper and marveled at the sight. While it wasn't one hundred percent like the "good old days", it was close, with a few modern amenities added. Afterall, there were no longer "servants" to chop wood all fall and stoke fireplaces all spring. The fireplaces were still in their natural working order, but more for ambiance than anything. The soft glow from the candles grew as the sunlight faded. The gently lit garden and trail through the wooded groves and eventually the apple orchards made her feel as if there was new life into the Manor and its long forgotten grounds. A far cry from the clubs and bars into the city, Calista wanted it to reflect the large scale architecture that was the pride of its hey day. Inspecting the setup of the bar and the buffet, Calista was finally content. Her eyes were alight with a joy she hadn't felt in years. She only wished that her son could be here. At this point they were in Germany, their tent and magic show keeping circus goers entertained. She sighed. The last month or so she had felt alone once again, but it fit like an old boot, soft and well fitted. The staff were in place and dressed entirely in black. Cliche, but it went well with the contrasting soft creams and beige. Those weren't her usual choices, but it brightened the place up from the dark imported mahogany and dust covered teak that had once covered the walls and floors. Calista wondered if the article would bring many people. The estate was so long overgrown and unkempt, that she was sure the announcement came and as a surprise to those that knew of it, and an unknown curiosity for those that did not. Either way, the various attendees without a specific guest list were sure to be an interesting collaboration. Ushers and valets waited for the guests to arrive in the circular drive near to front fountain (an addition she had to break up the thickly forested front property). There were staff at the bars and the kitchen downstairs was bustling with cooks and servers, keeping the buffet warm and stocked with everything from cheeses to scones. Soft music floated from the ballroom, the small orchestra settled into their lists of pieces, and a modern sound system in place discreetly from the production of digital music. The walk was opened and would take visitors through the 50 acres of back wooded areas and past the redone carriage house, now a recreation room. The library was, however, off limits to general admission and only available to be seen by special request. With everything in place, Calista waited, wine glass in had for the guests to arrive.....
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Post by Deleted on Aug 30, 2017 19:10:21 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 16:49:34 GMT
Tess arrived at the Redthistle Estate she took a big breath in the place was was breathtaking. She fidgeted in her designer dress, Anatoli had organised her car, driver, and dress, she still couldn't believe she was here. Tess had obtained a particularly rare and difficult to get motorbike for the Russian. He had been very impressed and this plus a huge wad of cash had been part of her bonus. Anatoli had even had a professional make-up artist and hairdresser come to her home and trim tidy and do her hair, the normally wild locks now tamed half up half down curls cascade down her back. Her unusual amber eyes lined with mink lashes her makeup subtle and understated smokey hues as always. The only difference for Tess was the crimson lipstick she wore it showed the lightly tanned skin and complemented her eyes. The drive stretched for what felt like miles wild trees and shrubs edged what was clearly an old estate. A warm glow emanating from the grounds gave a magical feeling to the place. Eventually they arrived at the main entrance, the driver got out of the vintage Bentley and opened the door for Tess, she stepped out carefully so as not to rip or trip over her dress, she had spent the extra time getting ready dedicating the outfit so if she had to shift the dress wouldn't be ruined. Once out of the car Tess saw a woman waiting glass in hand this must be the hostess, she walked towards her smiling. Hi I'm Tess Saunders thank you for the invite her lilting English accent soft and warm.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 17:05:35 GMT
Caleb had made it early for once, nobody seemed to be about so he took a seat amidst the trees and opened a fresh bottle of rum. He was about half way through it and lighting smoke when he heard the car coming up the drive. He watched as it pulled to a halt and the driver rushed round and opened the door. 'Must be someone important.'he thought. A beautiful woman stepped out of the car and began walking towards Calista. He had to do a double take, it was Tess. Caleb nearly choked on his drink. He quickly screwed the top back on and slipped it inside his jacket. He walked over and called her name, 'Tess, hey Tess over here, would ye wait for a fella.'Once over his eyes roamed the length of her, 'Look at you, I hardly recognized ye and I must add ye look stunnin'.'
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 17:19:20 GMT
Teagan had arrived to the Estate alone- Her agent thought maybe the party would be a good stepping ground for her to get back out into the more formal scene of the city. She had rolled her eyes. She didn't exactly want to attend a formal event, but it did give her reason to make it back to Arkham and maybe get some of that flying in the moutains she had been wanting the last few days. The women was small framed, long red hair pulled up into some messy updo and a flowered pin in her hair. Hazel eyes and fair skin.
Pulling herself from the car she took a deep breath. She wondered if anyone she new was gong to be there. She grabbed her clutch from the seat behind her and took a breath as she walked up the walkway to the entrance. "Thank you for the Invite. This place is Beautiful. No doubt a great venue to host such wonderful events." She nods to the women standing, as if waiting for people to arrive.
Well, the first half of this adventure is over....Now to make it through the event and go for a flight later...
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 18:08:44 GMT
Calista smiled as the woman Tess introduced herself. "Pleased to meet you. So glad you could make it. I am Calista Redthistle." She said, smiling. The cars started to arrive. "You are just in time. I personally wasn't sure who would show up. It will definitely be a wonderful night. Never a dull moment around here." She said, noticing a few others arriving.
Emerald eyes turned towards the familiar voice of Caleb speaking to Tess. "well, it seems you are still running about, you old dog." She said, taking a sip of her wine. She nodded to the housekeeper at a question about the sound system being ready for when Calista was ready to address the crowd as a whole. She hoped that this evening would spark some new acquaintances as well as potential buyers for her estate. She hadn't mentioned that to the reporter in her announcement, as to avoid tire kickers and gawkers.
When Calista heard Teagan's voice, she turned and smiled. "Thank you. It has been in the family for....a while. I am looking forward to a change in scenery, however." She said, finishing her glass of wine and setting the empty on a tray of a passing server. "Drinks are at the bar, food is on the long table. Her eyes flickered to Caleb. "We have plenty, it is an all you can eat event." She said, turning and extending an elegant hand to gesture for the guests to come insdie and move to the ballroom, her attitude calm and cool, though inside she was tied up in knots.
The grounds are lit for your exploration. everything is open to explore except the library and the 3rd floor. Make yourselves at home." Calista said. The interior had changed completely, the only thing still the same were a few paintings, antique family heirlooms and the old grand piano.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 18:41:06 GMT
Tess nodded hello to the other guests and lifted a glass of wine since she wasn't driving tonight she half downed it and reflexively took Calebs arm, she wasn't sure that she had wanted to see him so soon, after the incident at her apartment the other day, he lead her through the house and she was for the first time wishing she was independently wealthy, the home was amazing. Deciding not to mention the other day and not having the option to ignore him and dissappear into the grounds she was going to put a calm face on. Well you know the hostess here too, anyone you don't know Caleb?
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 20:13:54 GMT
Pleasantly surprised that she hadn't just told him to piss off he grinned. He smiled at Calista and spoke, 'Aye ye can't kill an aul'shite like me dat easy! It's good to see ya.' he nodded to her and walked on into the estate.
This place was impressive by night. He looked at Tess, 'You look lovely tonight Tess. Beautiful infact. Yeah knew her awhile back, we ran together a few times even had a fight once.' he laughed,he still had the scar on his shoulder from that.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 20:21:03 GMT
Calista narrowed her eyes slightly and smirked,
"Are you sure you want to test that theory? I am sure you aren't too old to learn a few new tricks." Calista turned and went to the head of the rest of the guests into the mansion's ballroom. The piano sat silently at the moment, black varnish shiny beyond imagination. Calista scooped up another full glass of red as the server passed by and took a big gulp of it. Her eyes passed over the other guests arriving. The giant gilded doors to the library corridor shut and locked. She looked to the front of the ball room and prepared to take the floor for her announcement and greeting, as soon as she was certain more guests would arrive.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 22:24:30 GMT
Aisha, David and Darren arrived well after the sun had gone down. Figuring they would be the late arrivals. It may no difference to Aisha. She really wanted to see this estate and the grounds. She had done a search online and saw various pictures but nothing that showed her enough. She hoped that she could get a feel for the locals if they were attending as well. Arkham wasn't quite New York and maybe, just maybe this coulf be a town David and the pack could move to so that they could lay low after the final tour of the band. The car pulled up to the beautiful drive and Aisha was taken away by the beauty of the grounds. When the car stopped David and Darren were out first. She smiled as David gave her, his hand. "My oh my. This place is beautiful." she gasped out. She had never seen anything quite so spectacular. They nodded to a few people here and there and Aisha already could hear the hearts. This was going to be a challenge but one that both David and Darren believed she could handle. The wind shifted and she caught scent of the wolves and chuckled softly leaning towards David's ear and whispering. "They let the dogs dress up also." she was of course teasing but still it meant they needed to be on their guard just in case. Her dressed flowed beautifully with her as she walked hanging on David's arm. She wad so elated that Bobby managed to find them all matching outfits. Though if she had to be honest, it seemed Darren enjoyed his much more then David. Which brought a smile to her face as her and Darren teased David about the red and him moving from all black. The walked inside the entryway and she took in the sight. It seemed whomever was holding this event was getting ready to speak and they were being ushered into a grand ball room. Aisha's Dress
David's attire
Darren's attire
@david @darren1
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Post by Deleted on Aug 31, 2017 23:40:53 GMT
Calista watched as more guests arrived, three of them in matching colored attire. She watched carefully as they moved, recognizing the front man from the concert in Central Park. This would be interesting for the night, indeed. Familiat faces, but not many she knew well. Calista looked to the small orchestra and held up a hand. Fading the music out, they left their instruments and disappeared through a set of doors.
Calista stepped to the front of the ballroom on a small stage adorned in chiffon and two huge 8ft tall black marble panthers, standing like feline gargoyles at attention.
"Welcome everyone! I am so glad that you could all make it tonight. I assume there will be others arriving, but in order to get tonight's festivities underway, I would like to begin by saying that this is more than a house warming. It is an open house for those who may be in the market for such an estate." Calista paused, her voice carrying through the well designed acoustics of the ballroom.
"I have renovated the estate with some modern touches with the intent to pass it on to new occupants. It has been in my family since the mid 1700s and until now has never left the ownership of my family." Calista cleared her throat.
"There are drinks at the bar, food on the buffet tables and a lovely candelit garden walk outside. Please be aware that white shows everything and therefore, gentleman, if you must quarrel, take it outside." She chuckled, her eyes glinting.
"The library is off limits save for a few that I have reserved entry for upon request as well as the 3rd floor." She said her voice smooth and carrying across the visitors, her speech enunciated and well spoken, as if she were back at Shadowfax. "I am open to any questions that you may have. Otherwise, the night is young and there is no quitting time for tonight." She said, nodding to a staff member. With a turn of a few dials, modern music played through the speakers as she descended the few steps from the platform with the help of a young man in his black staff uniform and proceeded to the gathering people, the trio on red and black catching her eye.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 0:17:45 GMT
Dickens arrived with Matilda. The car they came in was old, a real classic from the seventies, but in perfect condition. Dickens gets out, and walks around to open the door for Matilda, helping her out of the low slung vehicle. He was wearing a perfectly stylish but not overtly fashionable tuxedo, and carried a cane that he leaned on when he was stationary. He clearly doted on the woman with him. He looks around for familiar faces as they walk into the house. Those who know Arthur from New York, but not Dickens in Arkham, will of course recognise Arthur. Dickens' suit
Dickens' car
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 0:42:45 GMT
What Aisha had not known was that David and Darren had already been discussing purchasing this estate for the pack but he wanted to see all first hand before making an offer to Miss Redthistle.
He remained quiet with Aisha on his arm after they arrived. His eyes looking around recognizing Caleb, Tess, Arthur and Matilda and then....the scent hit him..Teagan was here as well and he nods to her with a smile.
"My queen your thoughts so far with what you see?" If Aisha truly wanted this estate then she would have it. David did not notice that Calista had been observing the three of them.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 3:23:31 GMT
Darren stood along side both David and Aisha, nodding and greeting everyone. when Aisha whispered to David, Darren him self gave a slight chuckle. Bending backwards so as to look at Aisha, "careful my dear, they may hear you" He gave a devilish wink and with a smile he stood up right only to catch a certain scent on the wind. "would you excuse me for just a little while, There is someone here I've been meaning to talk to for sometime." He gives a gentle nod and walks off to find Teagan.
She wasn't that hard to find, the fae always had an enticing fragrance of their own, "Of all the places to run in to you my dear, Why I haven't seen you since our meeting in New York a couple months back. Now tell me what is a beautifully enchanted flower like your self doing among the likes of us." Darren approached Teagan, his warmest smile on his face, hand out starched in a friendly greeting.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 5:49:48 GMT
Matilda was looking forward to going to the ball. She was excited as soon as she saw the press release in the local paper. She had spent most of the afternoon getting ready and making sure she looked good. Being a little different she purchased a 50s style evening dress paired with some simple black heels. Long ball gowns and long dresses was not her thing. She also made sure her make up was simple bar some light pink lipstick and mascara She arrived with Dickens as his date of course and she made sure she called him Dickens tonight. She stayed close to him as they entered. She was amazed at the place. "The owner has decorated perfectly for tonight" she also looks around the room to see if she sees anyone she knows Matilda's Dress
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 5:55:35 GMT
Arthur, Dickens, held Matilda close.
"She sure has. We should speak to her. Caleb told me she has this amazing library, and I hear she's selling." He speaks softly for Matilda's ears only.
"By the way, you look stunning." He smiles, giving her a corsage of red roses to match her dress.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 6:07:39 GMT
“A library you say. I wonder what books are in there and selling the place. Well this explains opening the doors to people love” she whispers back to him.
She smiles and takes the red roses corsage and blushes “thank you. I just wanted something different and I don't like long dresses”
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 7:00:54 GMT
Caleb sniffed the air, Arthur and Matilda. He looked around and saw them. 'Tess, common my friend is here wit his lady.' He lead them towards Arthur and Matilda, but ffirst made a diversion to the food table for them to load up on fancy free food. Then back on path towards Arthur he scooped a drink for each of them from a passing waiter.
'Arthur! Ye aul'dawg! Matilda lovely as always. Dis heres Tess.... he said to the couple, then to Tess‘.... dis here is Arthur and Matilda.Dey are good friends of mine.'
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 7:27:03 GMT
Arthur looks up at Caleb and Tess as they come over, rolling his eyes slightly at Caleb's introduction.
"How you doing, ol'wolf? Nice to meet you, Tess." He says, tipping an invisible hat, then takes the drink Caleb snatched for himself, and drinks it.
Arthur is in his 30s, English accent, has a recent scar starting in the middle of his forehead and going straight up across the top of his head. His eyes have just a little bit of crazy in them.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 7:34:55 GMT
Aisha listened to the hostess speak, a one Miss Calista Redthistle and she was selling this beautiful place? Aisha's eyes light up for a moment and then she is quick to cover the look up. As beautiful as this place was, she would never ask David. Besides their home in New York was beautiful as well.
She nodded her head to Darren and watched him walk off, her gaze following. The smell came to her first and oh was that like candy on a stick! Where did that wondeful smell come from? Oh she wanted to find that source and have a tasty little snack. A low rumble in her throat and her eyes turned dark searching.
Before she could search out the source her nose picked up the wolves as well. She turned and quickly had to wipe her scowl away. It wasn't that she was by any means perturbed that they were here. Only that they masked that wonderful smell. Quickly enough her eyes changed back. She would have to find that later. For now it was mingling time.
"Shall we go say hello to Caleb, Tess...Is that Arthur?" she whispered with a she roll of her eyes. Of course he would be here. She sighed inwardly. Why wouldn't the most famed crime lord not attend a function of this prestige? Great she thought as she stood there.
David would be better suited in handling this mess. She still hadn't forgiven the man for breaking in during the time she was at David's and ruining a perfectly good night of wining and dining. She had even bought a new dress for that night. She scuffed to herself. She would have to deal with him sooner or later.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 7:36:09 GMT
Matilda smiles at the introduction “Nice to meet you Tess. Always nice to see a new face” she says politely in her soft Boston accent.
Matilda is her early 30s with a Boston accent and is very slim.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 7:36:42 GMT
Tess smiled wondering what had happened to Arthur's head. Calebs friend sounded English, Tess cringed internally she hated the weird conversations that always resulted when two English people met, besides she wondered who he may know at home. She was pleased at how friendly Matilda was and thankful she was as far as she could tell a human. Hi Arthur, Matilda pleasure to meet you both. Tess nodded her head rather than shake hands she was really not a fan of the odd custom, besides she had been gut stabbed just before leaving England after shaking hands with someone she had truly trusted, and this guy had a wild look in his eyes.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 8:47:24 GMT
David knew exactly the scent that drove at Aisha. "My queen the source of that sweet candy smell is off limits. For to taste such a delicacy is to invite madness of the mind and for you sadness of the heart." He whispers in Aisha's ear.
Quietly he watches and observes. "I doubt they have the proper wyne this evening." He sighs as he sees Arthur and Matilda. He had sent Arthur a text but never rwceived an answer back. Perhaps the man was just way too busy now.
He turns. "Shall we walk this garden she spoke of since it seems everyone is occupied?" He smiles at Aisha.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 8:53:23 GMT
Aisha looks at David as he speaks softly into her ear. Her eyes grew at his explanation. She had a number of question's now rolling through her mind but choose not to address them here. Instead she smiled at her husband. "That sounds like a wonderful idea" she says quietly.
The two walk out through wide doors opening into a beautifully breathtaking view. The lights that hung around only added to the mystical feel of this place. She rested her head on David's shoulder as they walked.
"This place is beautiful, is it not?" she asks as they move through. Once they were quite alone in the gardens ahe lifted her head. "Why would that smell cause me mental issues and bring sadness to my heart?"
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 9:22:03 GMT
"So, another expat, eh? What drove you from the sunny shores of ol'England?" His tone was playful, not really demanding an honest answer, just making conversation.
"Say, would you be one of Caleb's ... type, would you?" He winked. He seemed friendly enough.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 9:38:44 GMT
Tess smiled politely, stalling momentarily Well you know how it is... the heck was she going to really say? This was probably one occasion that her customary candidnes would not be appropriate. The weather at home is so predictable, as are the people.. One of Calebs types.. I'm not sure you'd have to ask him if I was his type.. Tess deliberately misunderstanding Arthur at Calebs expense and dodging the question as to what she was. She looked at Caleb waiting for him to answer.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 9:46:54 GMT
David pausea in the garden with Aisha taking everything in. He could see Aisha and himself walking nightly in the gardens.
"This place is very beautiful. My question now is can you see us living here?" He glances with a smile.
"The scent you smell is your friend Teagan. She is a fae and her blood well smells like candy to us. To feed from her could cause us madness and the sorrow being if you could not stop yourself you could easily drain her dry."
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 9:47:46 GMT
Caleb had been watching the people enter the house. He saw David, Aisha and Darren aswell as Teagan.
'One of my types?...' he grinned and looked at the three stood around him. 'Well now dats a dangerous question! She is.' looking at Tess now he smiles, 'Arthur is my brudder from another mother, he's been tryin' for years to find out more about my heritage and our shared spiritual interests. I personally tink he's jealous I got other tings to do!' he laughs and shovels a spoonful of some food into his mouth.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 9:55:38 GMT
Arthur laughs at a Caleb's comments.
"When I was first starting out, I met this young pup, and for the longest time, he was my muscle. Offensive and defensive. We were quite a team. Then he moved off, and I moved off, and we found each other again here. He's as crazy as I am, so watch yourself." Arthur laughed again, slapping Caleb on the back with his left hand.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 1, 2017 10:09:29 GMT
Matilda just smiles when she hears another English accent and is trying not to over compensate for it by making her American accent broader. She whispers to Arthur
"I'm going to get another drink and mingle. Back soon and lovely to meet you Tess"
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