IC: Optical Illusion - The Lodge

"Come and enjoy the splendours of what we offer. We will not disappoint, we will not take your money if you are not happy with the service and experience that we give out. We offer steambaths, jacuzzi's, dance halls, playpens and many more adult things. Come and experience simply what we call The Lodge. A place where dreams do come true!"

-Written by Xavier Kradon Milton for the reopening of The Lodge Resort for NY Celebrations to herald in 2000.

But the Lodge holds many secrets and some secrets can be dangerous.......Beware of the Illusions, for they can be the most dangerous.

The Hidden History of The Lodge Resort

Situated deep in the Rockies in a picturesque small valley called by the local Indian tribe as 'Chechua' has been partly a buriel ground for their tribe and holds the evil spirits of their enemies.

The building is double storied and is a impressively large building covered 2 wide kilometers (4 miles). The Lodge has been a family heirloom passed down by the fathers to their son's as a business and a treasure to be used and consumed.

In 1852AD it was opened by the builder, Jeremiah Kradon and initially it was opened as a brothel for the pioneers and soldiers fighting the last remaining independent Indian West Coast tribes. In 1855AD, Jeremiah Kradon sold the thriving business to the new arrivals in the area, the Milton family. Little is known for the reasons of selling the business but it is proported that Jeremiah from Day 1 began to manifest bad dreams and began to see spirits re-enact their death battles. Nothing is known to what became of Kradon after he sold the Business.

With the purchase of the business by the Milton family under the headship of John Arthur Eld Milton, the business picked up and up and down the WEST coast and even the Mid-American states people flocked to the brothel. This was further enhanced by the acquisition of a gambling room and a bar.

In 1890AD the son of John Arthur Eld Milton, Reginald Alan Milton began plans to build a second story to the building. In 1895AD this building process was built but not without controversy. 10 builders mysteriously lost their lives on the site, 4 falling when their ropes gave way under mysterious circumstances, 3 were food poisoned and the other 3 were found naked in sexual positional body postures with their necks slit.

The building of the second level produced a golden age where the brothel aspect was moved up stairs and rooms were built as well as lodging. The downstairs held the gambling, bar and the newly opened restaurant.

In 1910AD with the passing of Reginald Alan Milton in his sleep at the age of 56, his succeeding heir was not a son but a daughter, Laria Leigh Milton who continued the successful enterprise of the Lodge. In a change of business focus, The Lodge under her direction became a vacation resort where people could come as a group or alone or in a couple and enjoy for one week the splendours and delights of the woman or men of the Brothel or just relax in the bar, gambling rooms or the terraces.

Laria in 1919AD met a stranger to the now known The Lodge Resort, a man known as William Kradon (the grandson of Jeremiah Kradon) after a brief but whirlwind romance they were married and a son was born out of the union. They called him Clark Kradon Milton.

In 1930AD, with the same nightmares that inflicted his grandfather, William Kradon committed suicide by hanging himself on a tree outside the Lodge. In absolute rage and heartbreak, that Laria never recovered from, she became a shell of a woman. She blamed the spirits for the death of her beloved and felt that the resort was cursed.

One year later she decided to do something that would have repercussions later on. Gaining council and sheriff approval she had workmen dig up the Indian buriel site and remove the bodies. Laria believed the removal of the bodies would end the curse. But things just got worse.

In 1945AD, at the old age of 87, Laria was murdered in cold blood in front of her son who was at that stage 18. In Clark's testimony to the police investigators, he stated that a knife was picked up in the kitchen by an unseen force and was plunged into his mother as she had her back turned. The police had their doubts and believed Clark did it but they could not find evidence to prove their theory valid.

So Clark Kradon Milton, the heir and sole owner and last member of the Milton family crest continued on his mothers new business direction, furthermore sprucing up the business.

In 1968, a son was born to him by one of the brothel workers in a short affair. Out of inbred morals he married the worker known as Lady Caylea. It was a loveless marriage.

This takes us to the present December 1999, one week before NYE.

After extensive renovations The Lodge Resort is now open for the last week of 1999 to hail in the year 2000. Come enjoy the delights and the beauty of The Lodge. NYE promises to be the party to end all parties. We are now open.

- Xavier Kradon Milton (December 1999)

The old Jeep Cherokee sputtered up the hill toward the Lodge. Trees were the only thing Amanda could see, other than the worn dirt path ahead. Oh please, please don't die on me now.. she thought, furrowing her brow. Cell phones didn't work well this high in the mountains, and the last thing she needed was to be hiking the rest of the way.

Her one large suitcase bounced around in the back with the miscalleneous cardboard boxes, it was all she had brought, and all she would have to begin a new life. The Millenium was coming, and if Y2K didn't destroy everything, she'd never go back to her old apartment. She'd carefully packed all the essentials and left the apartment before Robbie, her boyfriend of seven years, had come home.

Robbie had always been pretty good to her. He'd helped her through college, put them up in a nice apartment, and they'd even talked of marriage. The sex was pretty normal, Robbie never seemed too forceful or too unpleased. It was last semester that Amanda discovered why: he'd been sleeping with her best friend for the last year or so. She caught a message on his cell phone while he was in the shower, and after a long fight, his cruel words and then pleas for her to stay with him, she decided he wasn't worth it.

At first she'd thought it was her fault, that perhaps after six years of sex he'd been tired of her. Maybe the whole red-head thing was getting old; Amanda had been a red-head since birth and was at many times the object of lust for any random guy who dreamed of going to bed with a firey red-head. Stereotypes were established for a reason.. mused Amanda as she recollected her past performances in bed. At 5'7", she was gifted with long legs, her firey hair and green eyes gave away her Irish heritage, and she'd been gifted with a dancer's body, lean and much to Robbie's former amusement.. quite limber. Unfortunately for her, Robbie was always a breast man, and her ample B cup couldn't compare to her friends implants.

She was taking this vacation to get away from the nagging family that wanted her so much to stay with Robbie and work things out. But she wouldn't.. She'd have a nice week of fun, ringing in the new year, then she would fly to Chicago to begin a teaching job there.

Her clouded thoughts faded as the Lodge came into view through the trees. Amanda smiled as her eyes lit up with anticipation. Finally she would have herself a good time.

She pulled up to the enterance way, climbing out of the dying vehicle and clammered up the steps to find the front desk.

Kimberley Maddock

Kimberley sat at the wheel of her 4 x 4 and looked at the vast house that stood before her. The sight of the Lodge was breathtaking and exceeded her expectations. Neither the pictures on the website, nor the glossy brochure had done the place justice. The scenery was breathtaking and so different from what she was used to.

As mile after mile had passed throughout her long and at times intimidating journey the increasing wildness of her surroundings countryside had thrilled her. No longer cocooned in the tame safety of rural England, Kim had deliberately chosen this experience to be a total change from what she had ever known before. True she might at one time have come to work in this country … but never in such a place … and never under such circumstances …

With a heavy sigh, Kimberley slid wearily from behind the wheel. She pulled her rucksack and hauled one suitcase from the backseat. She had a few more pieces of luggage, but would return for those later. She had not selected this place because of its promises of luxurious facilities and an unspecified range of entertainment, but right now a long hot bath or even a hot tub was an increasingly attractive proposition. She made her way towards reception. She just wanted to get to her room, get unpacked and finally relax for the first time in months ... the first time since the funeral ...

”Ms Maddock … Kimberley Maddock…”

She said quietly and waited for the inevitable;

”Aren’t you from … ?”

Knowing that the more she tried to disguise her British accent the more pronounced it seemed to get. But with the glorious promise of unparalleled service and money guarantees, Kim was certain that she would soon be able to relax in peace and quiet and at least get the New Year over with before making longer term decisions.

Xavier Kradon Milton - Caretaker & Heir of The Lodge Resort

The Morning of the Reopening of The Lodge Resort

Xavier Kradon Milton was a handsomely rugged man with a country look about him. He stood as an imposing man at 6f7 and 225lbs which he kept toned with daily workouts and running around doing work and errands he could have his secretary do. But Xavier was a hands on man with a attitude of 'if you want something done right, do it yourself'.

Finally after spending $50.000 on refurbishments and renovations on his family's Lodge it was ready to open. After doing the early morning errands around the Lodge and giving his staff last instructions, he gave the front counter receptionist the day off. Xavier would be the one the first quests would see.

Xavier Kradon Milton wore a tipped cowboy's pig skin sombrero and a Sioux Indian shirt and black pants. He rolled a toothpic around his teeth and opened the guest book and looked over the guest book.

Xavier hoped the past experiences and occurances in the lodge was over for good now. For 15 years, there had been no strange events or deaths and he believed the curse of the Indians were lifted.

And his thoughts were interrupted by the noise of engines which meant the first guests had arrived. He smiled to himself briefly and stood behind the reception desk and awaited his first guests.

As Xavier waited a unbidden voice spoke one sentence which left his hair on the back of his neck to stand. "The time of final reckoning is close at hand. You and your Lodge shall pay in blood for the desecration and lies that took place and still takes place. Believe me, mark my words."

Xavier breathed in deeply and closed his eyes as the voice faded. He opened them as the first guest stepped through the doorway and into the Lodge........

Kimberley Maddock

Kimberley let her gaze move up along the towering hulk of a man who stood before her. He wasn't what she had expected the receptionist to be at all. She felt disconcerted and frowned as he seemed lost in a world of his own ...

"My name is Kimberley Maddock ... I believe you have a reservation for me ... "

She repeated her request almost wincing at her British tones.

Finally his eyes moved and focused.
At last ... she smiled in what she hoped was a friendly and not a nervous way and awaited his acknowledgement ...

Ray Parker

As he closed in on the Jeep Cherokee sputttering ahead of him on the dirt trail he grinned deciding to give it some room in case it up and quit directly in front of his bumper. His rig wasn’t any newer but it run a whole lot better, and even though some might call it an antique he kept it shinny as a new dollar and running like a top. He caught a glimpse of green eyes in the rear view mirror and edged up a bit closer again, his curiosity getting the better of him. Behind that determined face was a pile of rich roan colored hair and Ray grinned thinking of a chestnut filly that might need breaking in. He at once admonished himself for thinking so crudely, and backed away again as he felt that familiar rush of adrenilin rise. That wasn’t what this trip was all about.
His thoughts returned to as to just why and when he had began this adventure.

“What’cha gonna do for New Years?” Jake had ventured as he poured up another shot of Winsor and sorted through the pile of change stacked up in front of Ray on the bar.

“I don’t know,” Ray had replied after throwing back the shot and following it with a beer chaser.
but I sure in hell ain’t gonna spend it here in this one horse town.

“Aw Ray.” Jake had taunted.” You know you’ll be here with the rest of us gettin’ drunk and trying to talk some young filly into going home with you.”

“An’ just where are the young fillies gonna be Jake?, not likely here. Just the usual down and outers that hang around looking for a friendly face and a warm body.”

“Well you ain’t no spring chicken yourself Ray.” Jake had retorted.” Maybe you fit right in.”

Ray had to admit the next morning as he washed the remenents of last night from his face that he was starting to feel like he was “fitting in”, getting a mite too comfortable. It was time to move on. But where? up the line was another one horse town another dark and smelly bar and more of the same. Where was the magic that was behind the bright lights and promises.

But he’d checked out of his cheap hotel room. threw his battered suitcases under the topper on his pickup truck and headed out. He had glanced at a flyer that had been left in his hotel room and he had picked up for no particular reason. A scenic view accompanied by this message had greeted him

“The Lodge Resort is now open for the last week of 1999 to hail in the year 2000. Come enjoy the delights and the beauty of The Lodge. NYE promises to be the party to end all parties. We are now open.”

"Hell thats only a couple of hours away." Ray had muttered as he looked at the map at the bottom. "Why not? Maybe some fresh air A place to relax enjoy the wide open spaces. He knew that country was "sacred' country, he always felt comfortable up there in the mountains, maybe 'cause he had some Indain blood in him. First time he heard of a Lodge being up there though. and besides a party to end all parties how could he turn that down.

Now, as he pulled to a stop behind the Jeep Cherokee and watched it’s occupant step out, her long slim legs and supple body heading for the entrance, he felt like he was twenty something again maybe just the idea of being someplace new, someplace where nobody knew your name, could make a difference. A difference about how you felt about yourself and what your capabilities were.

Ray shivered he didn’t usually think these kinds of thoughts maybe he was just damn horney. At any rate he had a feeling this was going to be New Years Eve party he was never going to forget.

As she climbed the stairs, Amanda had a sudden thought: it would be pointless to have to come back out here and get my bag..might as well grab it now. Turning, she hopped back down the steps, returning to her car.

She opened the passenger side door with a creak and leaned over to open the trunk. The lock on the back had long been broken, and she didn't want to drag her bags out.

She caught a glimpse of the truck that had been following her up the hill, and the driver behind the wheel. She had felt like she wasn't alone as she was driving up here, but had been too wrapped up in her thoughts to bother looking behind her.

Now, she felt awkward, knowing the man had watched her horrible battle up the hill with the hunk of junk she'd driven. Reaching behind her she tugged at her already too-short shorts compulsively, turning back to the task at hand.

Ray

Ray looked down at his watch as he shut off his ignition. “Ten A.M.”. Surprisingly the trip had taken less time than he expected. “Good.” he thought. Plenty of time for a quiet walk before he checked in.

On his left the edge of the road seemed to drop off into nowhere and in the distance shrouded in the morning mist, Craggy, snow covered mountains stood like sentinels overlooking the scene below.

He was just getting out of his truck to walk to the side of the road and peer into the depths below when he heard the sound of hurried footsteps ahead and then the creak of a door being opened. Turning toward the noise, he felt his heart skip a beat.

Ray stood stock still for what seemed like an eternity but was in fact only a few seconds. His gaze, as he raised his head, followed those long slender legs he had been watching ascend the steps just a few moments ago. They seemed to go on forever until they became two firm thighs that became two gentle rounded butt cheeks beneath the taut cloth that strained against them. Just a scant few inches higher her body narrowed to a trim waist and then to a supple back that gave way to a rich pile of chestnut.. ...no it was brighter and more fiery... sorrel hair that cascaded down the back of her shoulders. Ray shivered feeling something from his past hidden deep in the recesses of his subconscious mind begin to surface. Resolutely he forced it back down.

A cramping feeling in his hand brought him back to reality and he realized he was hanging on to the handle of his truck door so hard the pressure was cutting off his circulation. Relaxing his hold he felt a sudden quietness overcome him and then the same feeling that he had felt on the road when he had looked ahead into the mirrored image of her green eyes. It was like he was twenty something again, calm, cool, collected, yet with a vitality he had long ago lost.

He shut the door quietly and with long quiet strides he approached the Jeep and the girl ahead of him. So silently had he moved that she didn’t hear him coming, but some innate awareness must have alerted her as she straightened and turned.

Ray felt like he was being pulled into the green sea of her widening eyes but his present youthful confidence saved him from drowning in their depths. He planted his booted feet firmly apart his tight denim jeans accenting his lean solid torso. His fringed leather jacket was unbuttoned, revealing a white linen shirt open at the neck to expose a generous portion of salt and pepper chest hair. A turquoise amulet hung from a gold chain accenting the gold and turquoise beading on his buckskin jacket.

He let her bring her gaze upward from his boots up along his long legs, his chest, his face and when she was looking at his faded cowboy hat, he smiled and spoke.

“Pardon me Miss.” He removed his hat and held it in front of him with both hands. “Maybe I can help?” Before she could answer he put his hat back on and stepped forward. The girl moved to the side shaken by the look in his dark brooding eyes, a look that told her he was looking past her physical presence reaching for something deeper within her.

Ray reached inside her vehicle and effortlessly removed the suitcase. Stepping back he motioned with his free hand toward the steps.

Xavier Kradon Milton - Caretaker

Xavier Kradon Milton stood up straight and brushed his hands on the sides of his long pants as he watched for the first guest. He had heard the engines in the street and knew someone/people had infact arrived.

And then that same voice returned in his mind, but instead of saying anything, this voice started to laugh in a menacing manner.

'Who are you?' Xavier asked the laughing voice.

There was no answer from the voice only the continuation of that irritating yet fear clenching laugh.

'Answer me, damn you!' Xavier bellowed to the unyeilding voice.

Of course the voice did not answer but started a new laugh.

"My name is Kimberley Maddock ... I believe you have a reservation for me ... "

The voice seemed to instantly fade as a new voice spoke up not within Xavier's mind but from the outside world. Xavier's eyes seemed to reconnect and his eyes refocused on a young woman who was looking at him quite concerned.

Xavier swallowed and smiled at the young woman and looked down on his reservation book infront of him. He scanned the reservation listings and found her name. Looking back up he smiled once again and replyed;

"Good-day and welcome to The Lodge Resort Ms Maddock, yes the reservation is here. Your reservation is for one week for New Years Eve and the next day. I believe if this is correct, you leave the Lodge on the 2nd of January." He paused and took a pen and gave her the book to sign to acknowledge the reservation. Then he continued; "Please sign here and pay your reservation fee half now and at the end of your stay the rest. So it's $65.00 now if you like. That's a nice accent you have there Ms Maddock, Aren’t you from …Brittain?”

Kimberley Maddock

Kimberley flinched as the man before her exclaimed loudly.

'Answer me, damn you!'

She looked around in confusion, but saw no one near.
He must have been speaking ot her and yet he hadn't questionnned her about anything.

Her gaze returned to the tall stranger before, her fear turning to concern as she saw how ... disturbed he appeared to be. Then it were as if his mood suddenly changed. A warm smile lit his face as he greeted her:

"Good-day and welcome to The Lodge Resort Ms Maddock, yes the reservation is here. Your reservation is for one week for New Years Eve and the next day. I believe if this is correct, you leave the Lodge on the 2nd of January."

Kimberley nodded warily, only half reassured.

"Please sign here and pay your reservation fee half now and at the end of your stay the rest. So it's $65.00 now if you like."

She took the proffered pen and signed her name in the book he put before her.

"Of course ... "

She told him smoothly and handed him her credit card, watching as he swiped it through the machine.

"That's a nice accent you have there Ms Maddock, Aren’t you from …Brittain?”

Kimberley nodded as she signed the slip and took the card to return it to her wallet.

"That's right."

She told him without elaborating, accepting the room key he handed to her.

"I don't need any help with my bags thank you ... if you'll just direct me ... "

She told him as she became aware of other guests arriving and became impatient to escape to the solitude of her own room.

Xavier Kradon Milton - Caretaker

"Of course ... "

The newly arrived guest first of four Xavier was expecting this day was Kimberley Maddock. He was pleasantly surprised to listen to her accent and find out she was from around the world, from the island nation of the United Kingdom.

He took the credit card she offered and swiped it across the credit card facilitator and took her fee. When the card was accepted Xavier gave it back to Kimberley with a soft smile.

She nodded in return putting the credit card back in its place and he handed her the room key. Then he explained;

"This is the room keys for the executive suit on the second level. The room has a bar fridge that is fully stocked and the room has all the amenities you shall need. If there are any problems there is a phone in the room that will ring here at the front reception. Myself or one of the front clerks will take your calls at all times. Do you need help with your bags, Ms Maddock?"

"I don't need any help with my bags thank you ... if you'll just direct me ... "

It was just as she finished her query that the other guests entered with a man carrying his and the other guest's baggage. A side door opened and a bellboy came out dressed in the native dress of the local indian tribes, a young boy not more than 12. "If you follow Darrin, he will take you to your room, Ms Maddock, and please call me if there are any problems on the extension next to the phone. Have a pleasant stay." Xavier smiled and then turned to face the other two guests who were standing now at the front reception.

"Hello and welcome to the Lodge Resort."

And Xavier felt an icy fear grip him as the voice said in his mind one word and then left again;

"Retribution."

In frustration, she turned herself around to find something to break the window with so she could reach her bag easier.

Instead she found herself staring into the denim and leather clad body of the man who'd been following her. Her eyes instantly raised to meet his, and at his offer, she stepped aside.

As he retrieved her bag, she found her eyes wandering again. He was a cowboy alright, from the hat upon his head, to the heel of his boots. He was lean, and his body indicated that he was well-muscled too.. She found herself wishing that her parents had bought her that damn pony when she was five.

She jumped as he turned around, waking from her daydream. "Well thank you sir." She said with a small smile. "But I think I can handle it from here," she added, reaching for the strap of the bag.

Kimberley Maddock

Kim tipped Darrin generously and closed the door behind him.
She stood and looked around the room, walking around to peruse the amenities.
The decor was wonderful, the room spacious, one might even say sumptuous. She was especially pleased with the double bed. Though it dominated the room, her accomodation was indeed a suite as it was furnished with sofa, arm chair and coffee table and well excelled her expectations. Wandering through to the bathroom, Kim was pleased to see not only an oversized power shower, but a vast corner bath, with spa features.

"Perrrfect ... "

She murmured to herself.
A bath was to be her first indulgence, but she desperately wanted to get organised get unpacked.

She opened up her case and began to move smoothly around the room, making quick work of pulling out her belongings and either hanging them in the closet, laying them in drawers or placing them in the spacious ensuite. For the first time in months she smiled and felt contented as she got her "chores" over with and looked forward to the "soak" ahead of her ...

Ray

Ray was a bit surprised when instead of heading up the steps ahead of him The woman chose instead to reach out for her bag. Her voice when she thanked him and then told him in no uncertain terms that she was capable of toting her own luggage made him smile. He liked an independant woman, one who wasn't afraid to call the shots.

"My names Ray he said evenly, Ray Parker. Guess we're heading for the same party, though it's a mite early to be celebrating." He looked up at the sky to see the sun letting him know it was still before midday. "I thought I'd take a walk before registering anyway he added more to himself than to her. 'Maybe we'll run into each other later." He handed her the bag. He turned and headed in the direction he had been going before her presence had interupted him.

Once he was on the edge of the road he looked out again over a valley filled with fir and balsam. Faint lines of bright fast moving water rushed ever downward from a multitude of directions and ended up in a distant lake, barely discernable in the misty shadows. In the distance those same snow covered peaks he had seen before stood as if they were watching the scene below. Ray thought it odd that even though it was late December the vally seemed so lush and vibrant, but knew sometimes was the case here in the mountains where a favorable wind could sometimes hold off winter late into the season. An animal path led downward from the road edge and turned as it reached a ribbon of cascading water. Just above this jucnction a waterfall tumbled into a crystal pool. He thought the distance to be close to five miles and though this place beckoned to him he knew he would never make it back before nightfall.

'"Another time he told himself, and found a rock instead to sit on for a spell and enjoy the scenery.

A half hour later he got up and going to his pickup pulled out his luggage. He headed up the steps to the lodge.

Xavier Kradon Milton - Caretaker

"Hello and welcome to the Lodge Resort."

The two people in front of him were not a couple that was apparent. Looking down on his book with the lodge bookings he scanned names and Xavier looked back up and smiled, his mind for now free of the voice that was mocking and angry.

"Correct me if I am wrong, you are Mr Ray Parker and Amanda.....sometimes I can't read my own writing," asked the Care-taker.

He waited for responces.

Kimberley Maddock

Kimberley stood and looked around her luxurious room with satisfaction. She had unpacked completely, stowing her possession away and arranging her toiletries in less than 20 minutes. She moved to the window and unhooked it, opening it wide. Breathing deeply she enjoyed the pine tang of the air and the crips freshness that was unique; so different to what she had known back in England. The states had a vastness, a wildness that she had never experienced before.

With a stretch, Kimberley kicked off her sandals and padded to the bathroom, putting the plug in place and pouring a generous dose of her favourite bath foam into the running water. Casually, Kim pulled the clothes from her body, placing them into her now empty holdall which was to serve as a makeshift laundry bag until, fully naked, Kim pulled over the minibar and ran her eyes over its contents. With a smile, she selected a half bottle of chablis, her favourite wine and catching up a glass, made her way into the bathroom, leaving the door ajar as she shut off the taps and slid thankfully into the bubbly depths.

Sipping the chilled white wine, whilst easing back into the nest of froth was her idea of heaven. For the first time in months Kim began to relax. Perhaps this had been a really good idea after all ...

Ray

Correct me if I am wrong, you are Mr Ray Parker and Amanda.....sometimes I can't read my own writing," Ray heard the caretaker ask.

He was standing behind the redhead he had tried to strike up a conversation with in the parking lot wondering if he should answer first or wait for the lady to respond. He looked around hoping to see a sign that would direct him to the bar or lounge.

He got suddenly very thirsty and impatiently turned to the caretaker. I'm Ray Parker, He took the key offered to him and turned toward the bell boy who was standing nearby. "Take these to my room." He pointed to the bags he had set down, and direct me to the nearest watering hole." He grinned an unpretensious grin and handed the boy a generous tip when he pointed tward a pair of curtained doors. It was then that Ray noticed the soft music and the hint of colored lighing beyond.
He turned and with long purposefull strides headed in their direction.

Underneath the Lodge.....

In 1930AD, with the same nightmares that inflicted his grandfather, William Kradon committed suicide by hanging himself on a tree outside the Lodge. In absolute rage and heartbreak, that Laria never recovered from, she became a shell of a woman. She blamed the spirits for the death of her beloved and felt that the resort was cursed.

One year later she decided to do something that would have repercussions later on. Gaining council and sheriff approval she had workmen dig up the Indian buriel site and remove the bodies. Laria believed the removal of the bodies would end the curse. But things just got worse.

Laria Leigh Milton's legacy of sacrilige was unforgotten by the restless spirits that were held beneath the lodge. For the bones of the deceased had not been moved far but were placed in a well that the Lodge had been built over. The bones were thrown without any rites down the dark decrepid well and earth tossed down the well to finally bury it. Laria had made sure to bury the spirits and then cover the well in solid cement.

And now the spirits angry and wanting revenge were restless. The drawing of fresh human blood in the form of new visitors made the spirits in their multitude of voices wail and talk of being released from their prison.

Slowly over time the well and the past had been forgotten, the cement was cracking in ever wider lengths....and the spirits numerous and angry could see their escape.

One voice among the many rose up loudest, and it marshalled the other souls around it....

Soon, my children, we shall be free.....and we shall smite and drink the blood of the innocent and we shall have our fill of revenge and retribution....

Soon.......Soon.....Soon.....

Xavier Kradon Milton - Caretaker

"I'm Ray Parker,"

"Greetings Mr Parking and welcome to The Lodge Resort. This won't take to long, just sign the booking lodgement book.....ah there you go.....I will get Darrin our bell-boy to take your luggage to your room."

As if out of nowhere the young boy appeared, as if he was summoned and he knew where he needed to be. For some reason Darrin had a spaced out look, when he came around and took the new visitor's baggage. And Xavier found the look disturbing and again the warning signals in his head came on. But in front of the patrons he would remain calm.

"Direct me to the nearest watering hole."

After all the necessary front office housekeeping was done, Xavier could see that Ray needed a drink. He smiled slightly and pointed to left, "Just follow the lights and this hallway it will lead you to the bar and gaming room. I will be there shortly to give you a tour after I organise the next guest. Have a nice stay at The Lodge."

As Xavier finished the last sentence he could see Ray walk down the hallway....and a image in his mind came into focus on his next blink......The hallway walls were covered in fresh warm red blood....in the next blink it was back to normal.

Mercy on me, what is going on here with me..... Xavier said to himself sternly.

He recomposed himself quickly and looked at the young attractive lady who had come in with Mr Parker. He smiled. "Welcome my dear, shall we get you settled?"

Setting her bag down slowly, she steps up to the desk. With a bit of a startle she steps aside to let Ray get ahead of her, sensing his impatience. As he heads to the bar her eyes follow him, then snapping from her daydreams she turns back to her tasks.

She watches as the man behind the counter finishes his prior business before turning to her. Leaning on the countertop she brushes her hair from her face giving him a large grin.

"Yes.. Hello. Thank you.. I'm Amanda.. and um.. How are you doing today?"

Xavier Kradon Milton - Caretaker

"Welcome my dear, shall we get you settled?"

"Yes.. Hello. Thank you.. I'm Amanda.. and um.. How are you doing today?"

Xavier searched for her name on the booking lodgement and found it. "Ah there you are Amanda. Welcome to The Lodge Resort. Hope your stay is exceedingly beautiful. You have room 201, with a great view of the mountains."

He did the necessary paperwork for Amanda, getting her part payment and ringing for Darrin the bellboy to come and take the new arrival to her room. In short order Darrin came and wordlessly took the keys from Xavier.

"If you please follow Darrin, he will lead you to your room and take your bags with you. If you need help at anytime, I will be only a phonecall away. Thankyou Amanda."

Xavier smiled at her watching her go with Darrin. Finally, everyone but one guest had arrived. He smiled...hoping nothing awry would take place. But the history of this place showed differently.

As the door closed behind him Ray looked around , thinking this wasn't much different than the usual 'watering hole' he was accoustmned to. Gaudy beer signs hung precariously high and low on the walls. Behind the bar a long mirror attempted to make this place much bigger than it actually was. The smell of stale beer and tobacco filled the air as music from the jukebox in the corner wailed out the latest country tune. Even the clientelle, if you could call them that, represented the down and out crowd he was used to. A bleached blonde with silicone knockers smiled provacatively at him. her demeanor told him she was looking for a warm body and a weak mind tonight.

There hd to be more than that to this place than this no account bar. A pool table scarred by cigareete burns, its felt fading in the glare of the one window to the west, was being punished by two drunker than usual pool player slashing at the balls rather than doing any serious shooting.
From a corner booth the sound of an argument issued from a middle aged couple a man and a woman obviously married as the main topic seemed to be an impending divorce. In another booth a younger couple were making out like they'd just settled their argument, and were trying to prove to each other and the rest of the world how hot they were for each other.

Ray ingnoring the blonde made his way to the bar and motioned for the bartender. He had decided against having a drink at least not here, not quite the attmosphere he need to drink in right now. "Water straightup he told the man when he came over. The bartender gave him an evil eye until Ray tossed s twenty on the bar and the man smiled knowing Ray wanted more than water. he wipped the dirty bar with an equally dirty rag and waited.

Ray pushed back his hat and sat down in the stool. "The caretaker out front promised me a tour. That mean theres more to this place than meets the eye."

"What you see is what you get." the bartender said mysteriously.

"That mean this hole in the wall is it."

"Didn't say that cowboy, maybe your attitude is getting in your way."

Ray fought off the impulse to jump over the bar and show him some attitude, but held himself in check. Something about the way he said it made him hessitate.

Seeing Rays hair coming up on the back of his neck the bartenner continued . "Here, it works this way. When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change."

"That's a mouthfull mister." Ray responded somewhat subdued. "I'll have to give that some thought."

The blonde who had ben watching him like a vulture came over. "Feeling lonely cowboy. Lookin' for some company"

Ray took a long swallow of water. "No, honey just waiting for things to change."

'Honey' shrugged her shoulders and walked away looking for another victim.

Amanda followed Darrin, eyes wandering all the while. This place is a hell of a lot bigger than I expected she thought. The more she was here, the more she felt that this wasn't going to be the relaxing vacation she'd hoped for.

She stepped in her room, taking her luggage from Darrin and slipping him a tip. Naturally, she'd been raised well enought to be curteous. "Thank you" she chimed, shutting the door firmly behind him and locking it.

She took a long glance around the room. The bed certainly looked comfortable. It was a bit more luxurious than any room she'd ever stayed in. She tossed her suitcase onto the bed and strolled to the window. Pulling back the curtain, she found herself staring up at a beautiful snow-capped mountain. Now this... this I can do.. she thought, stepping back.

Almost instantly she felt the fatigue from the long trip settling in. Wandering to the bathroom she gazed at the tub, but feared she'd end up asleep. Reluctantly she reached into the shower, turning it on as the room began to fill with warm steam. She quickly shed her clothes and stepped into the warm water, eyes closed instantly. For once she was content with knowing that there would be no phone calls, no interruptions.

She decided to make the shower quick, preferring instead, to test out the bed. Within just a few minutes she'd turned off the water and stepped out to dry off. Dropping the towel she returned to the bedroom, pulling from her suitcase a pair of red silk pajama pants and a small, white tube top. She'd also opted to going commando, underwear just seemed so restricting right now. Surely her clothing wasn't exactly professional, but hell, this was her vacation and she was going to relax any way she could.

After dressing, she'd gotten a bit of energy from the shower and the excitement due to her lack of underwear. She returned to the bathroom in search of a hair dryer, but finding none, she gave up, wringing out her long tresses. It'd dry just fine naturally, but she'd have to deal with the water seeping through her shirt, rendering it virtually see through. Oh well she thought. It's not like I have anyone to make an impression on. But even as she said that, the cowboy she'd met earlier, Ray, crossed her mind. She'd felt the way he looked at her, and as much as she was used to eyes wandering over her, his had seemed to reach further. It was something that years with her ex-boyfriend had never brought. As much as she liked it, it scared her to death.

Getting antsy, not wanting to take tim for her shirt to dry, she decided to get out. Taking the key to her room, she slipped out into the corridor to do some exploring.

Xavier Kradon Milton - Caretaker

Xavier Kradon Milton finished updating the lodging sheet from the new people who were now hopefully getting settled in. The last person due today had still not arrived and it was becoming late afternoon. Checking the time it was just after 4.30pm. He hoped that the lats person would come after dark because at night the landscape took on a almost foreboading look upon it.

It was about time that as Caretaker he would go and see each of the newly arrived and see how they had settled in. For Xavier took his job seriously, it was his sole lifehood.

Darrin came around the corner and walked into the reception area. "All guests are settled in Mr M (Xavier had asked all his workers to call him M for short for Kradon Milton was long on the tongue) He looked at the bellboy and nodded. "We are still expecting the last guest to arrive, I will go and check on our guests, can you mind the reception desk?"

Darrin nodded wordlessly. "Good," responded Xavier who did like the boy but didn't want to seem like he was playing favourites with the staff. Looking into the bar he found one of the guests Ray talking with Kippleux the Bartender of the Bar and Gaming room. I will see him last, I will check on the ladies first, Xavier said to himself. He moved down the hallway away from the Bar area and felt in the gut of his stomach that something was impending, all he knew was it would not be good.

Xavier decided to see the guest called Kim, the one with a delightfully different accent. He walked with purposeful steps toward her room.

Kimberley Maddock

Kimberley's eyes fluttered open. How long she'd luxuriated in the now luke warm bath, she had no idea. The bottle by her side was already half empty. The cool liquid had slid down all too easily, a welcome contrast to the hot aromatic froth topped water.

Reluctantly Kim hauled herself upwards and stepping out of the oversized tub reached for a pristine white towel, loving the soft sensation as she wrapped it around her in a welcoming cocoon. Another smaller towel around draped over her shoulders as she rubbed at her hair and she made her way into the main room and perched at the end of the bed glancing anew around the luxurious room.

Her mind threatened to go back, returning to the recent painful events, but she forced those thoughts from her mind with effort. She was determined to concentrate on the here and now. This was a perfect place to escape the trauma of the past. She deserved this break. Somehow she had to get her head together and decide what to do with her life from now on.
This really was an opportunity, a new start.
The sooner she could view it as such ...

A knock on the door made her jump.
Her eyes flew towards the sound, as if she could see through the heavy wood and tell who it was on the other side.
Smiling at her nervousness, Kim stood up and made her way to the door. Opening it slightly she poked a head around and enquired softly.

"Yes..?"

She had expected to see the bell boy perhaps, or a maid.
She drew back instinctively when she recognised the man from the reception desk.

"Ohh.. hello .. "

His solid presence blocked the doorway.
She hesitated nervously before berating herself and stepping aside to invite him into her room.

"I ... I'll just be one minute ..."

She told him softly before fleeing into the bathroom and shedding the towels to replace them with a thick and - to her mind - modest robe. Shaking out her damp hair and leaving it to tumble about her shoulders she returned to the main room.

"You ... wanted to see me ?"

She prompted uncertainly feeling only fractionally better now she was attired with a semblance of decency.