Stormswept Heights

[MissVictoria]

OOC: Please do not post without reading the ooc post! (click here )


Stormswept Heights, England, 1805

I shall never forget that certain summer, for it was then that my father, Sir Edward Martyn, Bt., remarried- and that my new siblings and stepmother came to live at Stormswept Heights.

I remember it quite well, for I was just into my eighteenth summer, old enough certainly, that I should be married or at the very least betrothed to my intended. I quarrled with my father daily on my rejection of the various proper suitors who visited the manor, and it was a tense period of my life. But even had it been less tense then, I should not have forgotten that certain summer, for it was to change my life drastically and must therefore be forever impressed upon my memory in sharp detail.

I was an only child, and as such children grow into adults who are thusly, I was both precocious and curious. Early on I had learned I must know all there was to know about what went on in our house. My father's moods were determined accordingly, and though all of us at the Heights were subject to Sir Martyn's displeasure when things did not go well, I had to bear the brunt of his anger more often than anyone else. For this reason, I had become adept over the years at cleverly ferreting out every scrap of information posessed by those in our household, so I might know my father's wherabouts and disposition every minute of each day.

It might seem unnatural to you that I, his only child, had such a fear of him that I would spy upon him like a skulking beast, when even in a rage, he had never struck me and, indeed, treated me only with tender kindness. Perhaps it was this kindness which I feared, for deep within his eyes I could see an animal presance when he looked upon me, sometimes as if he had wish to devour my flesh with the sharp teeth of a wolf. The contradictory nature of his actions and eyes quite disarmed me, and armed me against myself, and as such I went to great lengths to keep out of his way.

In this, I was aided by the rest of our household, who felt sorry for me and thought me strange to constantly reject the suitors who came to call, though I heard them mumble that naught else might be expected of me, I had been reared in so peculiar a fashion, with no women about. Indeed, it was whispered amongst the halls of the Heights that I would never love a man, and that I should have been born a boy. I knew this only indirectly, for such talk was not proper when discussing a girl of my station, but still I could see their eyes, amused and curious as they looked upon me.

It was not that I was boyish in appearance. Certainly, I was not dainty as women of my circle in society were expected to be... my skin was paler than it should be, and my hair as black as night. They were offset by the strange molten copper of my eyes, which with my unruly hair gave me a wild appearance. While the rest of society dressed their women in soft pastels, the colors next to my face made me appear bleached, and washed out. And so I wore darker colors that suited me better- midnight blues and deep scarlet gowns, both colors of which were unpopular for women.

My disposition as well, was lacking. Intelligence in a woman was undesirable, but alongside it, I was unruly. There was nothing I enjoyed more than to set off on my dear dapple-gray gelding, Eternity, and taste the wind as I rode him fast down the open roads leading to the Estate. I had grown up childhood friends to the stableboys of the Heights, and could run fast, spit far, and play dice and cards with the best of them.

Life in the Heights was, despite butting heads with my father, quite pleasant. He only wished that I should find him a proper husband to rule over the inheritance in which he had so much pride.

The house was set in northern Cornwall, upon the wild, savage moors that stretched to the sea, cutting a stark brutal line against the horizon, for the heaths here were barren of trees, although alders, birches, oaks and ashes could be found in the deep, sheltered combs. A wood consisting in the main of ancient Cornish elms surrounded the manor itself. But their branches were sparse and pointed steeply upward before spreading into narrow crowns, so the elms seemed a part of the fierce sweep of the land as well, though other less austere trees had been planted over the ages and helped to soften the harsh effect.

The Heights itself was old and fashioned in the shape of an E, for it had been built during the reign of Queen Elizabeth. It was constructed of Pentewan rock hewn from the cliffs near Mevagissey at Chapel Point and brought by wagons to the site where the house stood. Over the ages, the rough stone had weathered to a pale silver gray that reflected every nuance of light and shadow, giving the manor a forbidding appearance, especially at dusk, I thought.

It was three stories high, counting the attic. The main portion was topped by a flat, battlemented roof; the wings were capped with steep hip and valley roofs from which rose distinctive Tudor chimneys. Ivy grew up the front wall, around the arch framing the massive oak doors, and halfway up the sides of the towers, making the Heights seem less stern and grim that in really was. Long, narrow casement windows with leaded lozenge panes of fine Venetian glass overlooked a portion of wood that, along with the beautiful multicolored gardens and sprawling green lawns of the manor, formed the park. The gardens were all constantly cared for, lest the untamed moors beyond reclaim the stolen terrain, as I often fancied they wished to do.

Sometimes late at night, when I lay huddled in my bed, the wind blowing in from the coast a few miles away would carry to my ears the sound of the roaring seas breaing against the distant cliffs, and I would imagine the earth crumblind before the onslaught of the waves, the Heights falling down into the sea, and tumbling into the oceans depths. My life was encompassed with ruthless, relentless elements, and the Heights was very much a place of isolation, for we had only one near neighbor, a small farm far off.

Thus, when the carriage arrived from London, bearing my father and his new bride, and my new step-siblings, it was quite a change to the dreary monotony, and the self-created ghosts that flitted about the manor. As I watched the finely dressed family emerging from the gilded carriage, my eyes were ablaze with the excitement of having others about the lonely halls.

 

[goddess_euphoria]

Lady Serina Martyn

It had been a long, silent ride, and I for one was glad to see it come to an end. Edward had made some attempts at conversation, none of which seemed to catch on. I had been too occupied with my worries, a new household to manage, a step-daughter, my own children. Lara had half-heartedly responded a few times, though she was quickly drawn back into her silent grieving. Clay was another story, scowling out the window the entire time, only looking at Edward or myself to remind us his distain was meant for us.

I know neither of my children were pleased with my choice, and it didn't help matters that my marriage had come so soon after their father's passing. My beloved Nathaniel had left us with little. He had been a good man and a hard worker, and with out him, I had nothing. I hoped that in time Lara and Clay would understand that the sacrifice I had made was for their own good. Such is a mother's lot.

At last we had arrived! The surrounding landscape was perhaps a bit rough looking, but the manor it self looked quite fine. I waited for the carriage to come to a stop, I struggled to keep myself composed, I was about to step into a whole new world, and I wasn't yet sure that I would be able to meet all the challenges it had to offer.

 

[MissVictoria]

Anne Martyn

My father was the first one to descend from the carriage, followed by his new bride as he assisted her down from the coach. Her small feet kicked up the gravel of our driveway as she landed, and at once I took the form of the woman in. She was a sizable height for a woman though not overly so, healthy and young looking, and opposite in appearance to the moors of this land. While I looked perfectly at home here, with my boyish stance and my wild, unkept hair, she bore the appearance of a complete woman. Her light brown hair shone with luster, illuminated by the sunlight as her blue eyes took in her new domain. The lace of her dress would likely be ripped from her skirts merely on her walk to our front door. I wondered at once how she would survive here, and had to retain a chuckle.

She clung to my father in what was most likely her discomfort at so many new things, and fear, as I should have recognized- but I did not. To me, she appeared a leech, heartless and ready to devour him. I wondered if she had similar negative impressions of me, for I was standing before this woman wearing a man's riding attire and boots, carrying a horsewhip under my arm. I could feel her calm, emotionless eyes observing me.

 

[DeityMun]

Clay did not move when the carriage stopped, instead still staring out the window with the same scowl on his face as the rest of the passengers stepped finally to the unmoving ground. It was only after the last of the others with him had stepped out that he moved finally, his fingertips moving from his red lips, and his darkly blue eyes turned to the open doorway, looking at the sunlight that streamed around those that stood near the carriage. He didn't want to leave, and start a new life, in a new place, with a new father who would never actually be his father. He wouldn't let him.

Perhaps, if the chance arose, he'd kill him.

But, that was not currently in his list of options, so he'd make due with what he had. But if his mother showed up with a bruise or cut that was caused by his.... by this man.... he would rue the day he met Clay. And he would not live past the day he met Clay's sword.

With these thoughts ringing in his head, he slid to the far edge of the seat, nearest the doorway, and leaned forward to look outside. They were all getting aquainted, and perhaps he could slip quietly out of the carriage and into the house, remaining in the background. Perhaps he could...

Was that a girl?

Arching a brow, he looked at who turned out to be his "new father's" daughter, his eyes travelling head to toe, and shook his head slightly. What a life this was going to turn into. Rising, he adjust the sword that habitually hung at his side, more out of insecurity than necessity, and decended from the carriage and into the warm sunlight, trying to move as silently as possible.

Standing behind the group, he swept his fingers back through his starkly blonde locks, pushing them out of his face, and sighed silently. Welcome to your new life, Clay.

 

[Zircon]

George Lampsere

The touch of grey streaked across the skies, the dawn promising a new day, as George got up. Reluctantly, as befitted a young strapping man such as himself. But the chores of the morning could not be held off as much as he desired them to. For today was a very special day. Today heralded the much-anticipated arrival of Baroness Martyn, the new Baroness. Perhaps it was the tinge of excitement coursing through his body that made the chores seemed less distasteful. They were done swiftly and silently, completed well before breakfast.

George was absently grooming Eternity, when the thoughts of his mother intruded. She had unfortunately passed away recently. A maid in the service of the selfsame household for all her life. It was the cruelty of being buried without a proper headstone that made him grit his teeth. An unknown all her life, and in death. There was only one mourner at the funeral, George himself. Today was also his mother’s birthday, and he had hoped for some time off to put some fresh flowers on the unmarked grave at the Church.

But being in the service of the Baron for all his life, such a scant luxury would not be accorded to him, especially not today. Inevitably, there would be a mountain of new tasks for him in preparation for Baroness Martyn’s arrival, and after. The grooming of Eternity did not take too long, which left him enough time to prepare for the grand arrival. To him, such grandiose reception was befitting of a new Baroness. So he did not complain, as it was his fated station in life, which dictated his thoughts and actions.

A stable boy under his wing had breathlessly told him that the time that he looked forward to had arrived. He stood, on the gravel resplendent in his best red doublet, brushed overcoat and clean knee breeches, with his cravat tied securely, patiently awaiting for the carriage to stop. He fortunately had the time to take a quick bath, and combed his hair and had it tied securely. The Baron was not a man to appear dishevelled before.

George stood by the front of the carriage silently, while a groom boy held the reins. The Baron alighted first and then helped the new Mistress of the Manor on her first steps onto her new home. From his position he could see how the Baron could fall in love with this woman. Her bearing was noble, and her strength of character had clearly shown through, albeit her good looks could have something to do with the Baron’s choice doubtless.

The new Baroness’ eyes bore questioningly into Miss Annabelle. Almost certainly because of the headstrong Miss Annabelle’s persistence in rebelling against the Baron. George wanted to chuckle at the sight before him. A true Lady wearing men’s attire would touch off scandals from here to Bombay. But, as a manservant of the Baron, he had been taught the proper protocols, and as such he face betrayed no such mirth as his eyes did.

Last to alight was a young man, who appeared to be of the same age as George. The confident way that he held his sword, and the shiny riding boots, announced quite loudly to George that this man, the stepson of the Baron, was not one to be trifled with. His eyes, cold and unyielding, also told George that this young man would bear attention to. Mischief and hatred seemed to the rule of the day, by the way he scowled at everything. Apparently, he was unhappy by his change of station and accommodations. Again, George would wonder as to the reasons, for this was what every commoner would dream of.

He wanted to shake his head in resignation at the sight before him. But as always, his training had been complete, and he moved not a muscle. It was only when the new arrivals had moved away from the carriage that George signalled to the rest of the grooms to unload the baggage. Without a doubt the Baron would wish his new family additions to be comfortable as quickly possible.

While the unloading was going on, George silently wondered if his staid life had just gotten worse or better…

 

[goddess_euphoria]

Serina Martyn

I stepped from the carriage, taking in the assembled servants. My eyes swept over them once, then again. Where was Edward's daughter? Shouldn't she... A young woman with wild black hair dressed in men's riding attire stepped forward as Edward motioned towards her.

"Sarina, may I introduce you to my daughter Annabelle." I frowned slightly, he'd warned me that Annabelle was a little, unconventional, but I hadn't expected this. I nodded to her, not sure exactly how I should react. I realized that one of the reasons Edward had probably married me was so that I might help his daughter be a little more lady like. Looking over her once more, I highly doubted that Miss Annabelle would be very receptive to my influence.

After Edward had made all his introductions, he lead us towards the manor. I cautiously gathered my skirts so that I might avoid catching them on anything. I looked up at the manor as we approached it. It seemed more foreboding from this angle. I absently wondered how long it would be before I got myself lost in the manor's many halls. In London we'd lived in town house, elegant enough in it's own means, but it hadn't been any larger than needed. I took one last look around the out side of the manor, not another house for as far as the eye could see. A slight panic gripped me, I'd lived in London my entire life, surrounded by the city, what did one do with all this space? I imagined this must be how someone coming to the city for the first time would feel, except instead of feeling claustrophobic, I felt... was there a word for a fear of open spaces? It seemed so absurd.

Edward escorted us inside, and my panic subsided slightly. I took a deep breath to steady myself, now wasn't the time to be lost in my thoughts. I certainly should be paying attention while we were being shown our way around in this place.

 

[MissVictoria]

Anne Martyn

My stepmother's eyes seemed to widen slightly as I stepped forward upon my introduction, a smug smile on my lips, alight with mischief. I could see that my father was not pleased that I had decided to dress this way for his new wife's reception, perhaps hoping that I would ease her more gracefully into the blatent fact of my existance.

I stooped into a low, mocking curtsey, holding out the sides of an imaginary skirt, a scuffed riding boot digging into the gravel. When I rose, my eyes found those of George, head groomer of the manor and a longtime friend, and I winked, noticing the amusement in his eyes.

Then the procession seemed to be moving into the house. Several of the servants remained outside, and I lagged behind, spinning on my heal and turning to George briefly. I screwed my face into an overly expressive look of disdain, then crossed my eyes, and he chuckled. My face relaxing with a heaving sigh, I turned back, to join my new family for the grand tour of the manor, the very last to enter the door.

 

[papillon24]

Natasha

From the kitchen I could hear the sound of the carraiges as they arrived at the mannor. I turned my attention from the potatoes I was peeling in order to scurry outside to get a peak at the commotion. I watched in longing at the beauty of the dress the woman wore as she stepped from the carraige. It was all too much.

I returned to the kitchen towards the seeming endless amount of chores to do. I grabbed the pitchers of water and headed for the rooms. Beauty was not for me, but I did envy all things that were and those who had them. I was stuck here as a serving girl in order to repay my mother's dept to these people. I quickly rushed to the suites and filled the washing basins with warm water. The newly arrived would surely want to freshen up before dinner.

Back to the house hold duties that had been my life since I was young. Dinner was the main point but I stopped long enough in the hallway in order to wave to miss Annabelle, who has been a friend since childhood, and to get a glimpse of those who were arriving.

Time used to be not so hard. The days used to be joyous running and playing with miss annabelle in the garden as I watched her and my mother was the one doing the labor. that all soon change. Death soon cought up with my mother and I was immediately put to work by the barron in her place.

I sighed a quick sigh before going back to the enless pile of potatoes that needed to be peeled before dinner.

 

[Conquestia]

Lara
The carriage ride had left me quite uncomfortable and I was glad when it finally came to an end. By the looks on everyone else's faces i presumed they felt the same. I emerged from the carriage as quickly as I could, eager to stretch my legs. Looking around me, I decided the Manor didn't seem as horrid as I thought it would be. Though I was not thrilled at the idea of a new life with a new stepfather, I didn't quite hate it, not like my brother did. The manor itself was larger than i'd pictured, and they had a stable.

I breifly scanned the area before following the group into the Manor. That was when I spotted another girl, my new stepsister I imagined. I smiled politely, glancing around as we began the tour, eventually falling into step with Clay.

 

[DeityMun]

His feet settling into the gravel, he rested a hand on the hilt of his sword, his other at his front, the fingers curled a bit under his belt. He stood silent, ignoring most around him, and moved only when everyone else began to walk into the manor. Somehow, someway, he'd see to getting his happy ass out of here. And soon.

He glanced to his side as Lara fell in step beside him, and grinned just slightly, leaning down a bit to whisper to her.

"Didn't he say he had a daughter?"

 

[Zircon]

George Lampsere

George wanted so much to laugh out loud. She made a rueful face, which instead of conveying her displeasure, added to the comicalness. The laughter that was always heard in the stables with Miss. Annabelle would had been so inappropriate at this time and place. All he could offer was a suppressed chuckle and a curt nod to her. He was definitely concentrating on not letting the heavy cases drop on his feet.

As the procession moved into the manor, George managed to sneak a glimpse at the Lady who alighted before her brother. She was a mirror image of her mother. Notwithstanding a younger version. With fine auburn hair and similar countenance, she bore the noble air that her mother did. But her deep blue eyes betrayed her sadness. George wondered as to why. She would honour her mother, and the Baron’s household with merely her presence.

He made sure that the carriage was properly cleaned, the horses well fed and groomed before entering the manor through the kitchen. He took the initiative to prepare the saddle and bridle bits for Eternity. Somehow, he got the feeling that before the night was out, Miss Annabelle would have a ride out to the Moors or the long lonely roads that lead to the manor. The reception that she gave to the new Baroness would not be forgotten so easily by her father. Although a kind and fair man, the Baron was strict. It would bear attention to heed his wishes at all times, George had learnt.

At the cavernous kitchen, he saw Natasha preparing dinner. The smells were positively delicious. George felt the rumble of his stomach, which he bit his lower lip to repress. There would be enough time to sup when the Baron and his new family had finished. With a cursory nod to Natasha, George moved further into the Manor and upstairs. The pages and grooms that were under his care were a motley bunch, and prone to forgetfulness. He was there to make sure that the luggage were brought up, and brought to the correct room.

It certainly would not bode well for him if a mistake was made tonight. George had vowed that he would not embarrass the Baron by his inattention to details. The grooms had ostensibly listened to his voice of reason, and no mistakes were made. George finally heaved a sigh of relieve. It was not everyday that things had gone so smoothly. He hoped that the Baron would see the efficiency shown, and not concentrate on his daughter’s defiant showing. The household would be more quiet if he did not. A wistful thought perhaps at that.

 

[MissVictoria]

Esmond Pickering

Esmond Pickering, the long time butler of the Manor Estate, had served the Martyn family even before the current Baron had opened his mouth to cry out in his first breaths of infancy. As such, it was he who now led the new arrivals through a brief tour of Stormswept Heights.

He had aged gracefully, and always appeared with nary a wrinkle in his attire, nor a silver hair out of place. In Pickering's youth, for that is what they called him, he had been a man of quite a formiddable height and strength. In his old age he had retained some of this, and while he walked with an odd stooping half-shuffle, and his hands shook with palsy, he could get about quite easily and lift many things that the women of the house could not. His voice was still a deep, booming baratone, and it echoed through the walls of the estate as he pointed out various items of interest, explaining their historical significance.

"The Great Hall," as Pickering explained, "Is the oldest and largest room in the house." He continued to speak about various furnitures and tapestries that adorned the room, as the others cast their eyes upon what the old butler's bony finger pointed toward.

Its vaulted ceiling soared to the roof, exposing the supporting rafters and curved beams, blackened over the years by the smoke of open fires, though the hearth that had once stood in the center of the room had long since been torn out, and a fireplace constructed in the west wall. It was lavishly adorned, and though heavily furnitured it seemed quite bare, its immensity thusly even more apparant. Stone staircases, with more recent balustrades of oak, angled steeply up the north and south walls to the wings.

As the party followed Pickering up the initial flight of stairs to the north, the butler paused at the base of the landing to point to an open doorway that led into what he explained was the dining room. "We sup promptly at five-o-clock," boomed the butler in a boldly stern voice which recieved a scolding look from the Baron. "It has always been that way."

The long climb to the second story was dizzying, if one glanced over the railing at the hall below. Pickering led the party down a corridor past several closed doors to an oak portal set into a circular wall, which he explained, formed part of the north tower. He tapped on the door, and smiled to Lara. "Your room, miss." he said with a grin. "Fitting that such a princess be in a tower... or part of one, anyhow. The stairs were torn out, floors added, and it is now a room."

Pickerling tapped another nearby door and beckoned Clay over with one bony finger. "And you, young master, your luggage has been brought here. I pray it will suffice."

The old man opened the door for the glowering Clay, and stepped aside, bowing slightly before turning to the Baron and his new wife. "You, sir?" he said, though he was not really asking a question, and he turned to address the rest. "If you wish to break your fast, ladies and gents, our morning meal is out on the table from six-o-clock, until ten of the morn. It will taste a might bit better the earlier you get to it."

The Baron nodded and dismissed Pickerling. After all, the Baron knew his own way to his chambers on the east wing, and the Lady Martyn would not be getting a room of her own.

 

[goddess_euphoria]

Serina Martyn

The butler led us on our tour of the manor, telling us the history of this and that. Though I admit everything was quite lovely, I was still much too involved in my own thoughts to pay much attention. We followed Pickering up the stairs, where he pointed out the dining room and received a stern look from Edward for his curt announcement of supper time.

The sheer number of stairs was overwhelming, I kept my eyes on the steps, making as if I were watching my footing rather than avoiding the view. As Pickering escorted us down one of the corridors, I couldn’t help wondering what was behind each of the closed doors, and wondering again what one did with so much space. Pickering pointed out Lara and Clay’s rooms, and I made sure to carefully note where they were. It simply wouldn’t do for the lady of the house to ask directions to her children’s rooms.

Pickering informed us of the morning meal time, and Edward dismissed him as Lara and Clay parted our company to explore their new rooms and other surroundings. I would have liked to join them, but there would be plenty of time for that latter, and besides, I didn’t think my new husband would allow his wife to part ways with him so soon. I glanced over my shoulder one last time as Edward led me back down the corridor. Lara had disappeared into her room, but Clay stood half way out of his door, glaring after Edward and I. Saddened, I turned away. Talking to my son would also have to wait.

I expanded the map in my head as Edward led me on, paying close attention. I was determined to not let myself get lost in this place. However, all too soon it seemed we stopped before a large oak door.

“Our chambers my lady,” Edward announced, swinging the door open.

 

[Zircon]

George Lampsere

George was back at the stables to his office, which was a small place where the smell from the stables would not intrude too much. He leaned back on the chair, and closed his eyes, ignoring the hunger pangs. In his mind, he replayed the events of today, the new Family additions, and especially Miss Annabelle’s face made to him before the tour of the manor. This time, in the privacy of the Stables, he laughed out loud.

The Baroness would have her hands full with Miss. Annabelle, which was for sure. She was a headstrong girl. No not a girl anymore. A person on the verge of womanhood, he corrected himself. He had grown up with her. He remembered quite vividly the times that they had jumped from the loft down to some prior prepared bales of hay. And the times, when the former Head Groom, Mr. Stamford, had caught them, and George was put to task cleaning and re-stacking the hay. And the number of times he was “asked” to clean the stables as punishment. But George resolutely got into more trouble with Miss. Annabelle the more times he was caught. He chuckled as he remembered those times to be the happiest of his life. And her laughter. Her laughter had always brightened his day.

But now the new Baroness would take her by the hand if necessary, to transform her into a proper Lady of Station. Which was not a bad thing in George’s mind. Perhaps the Baron, realizing his own mortality, would want a proper heir. George had only begun to wish, for Miss. Annabelle’s and the Baron’s sake, that things would be as the Baron wished.

He stood up to look over, again, at the new saddles and bridle bits, which were commissioned for the new arrivals. A very comfortable sidesaddle for the Baroness and her daughter. The crops were finely made. George was satisfied that the new equipment would be well received. Next, he sauntered off to look at the horses picked out. A sedate mare, Miss Charlotte, for the Baroness. One of his favourites, the Countess, a fine filly, for the Baroness’ daughter. And a magnificent stallion, Wind Soarer, for the Baroness’ son. Doubtless that each would extract enjoyment from exploring the estate, just as Miss Annabelle had done for so many years.

Taking some apples from a bin, he went to feed the snacks to the Countess and Eternity. These two were his favourites, although the Baron’s Stallion, Magnimonious, came a close third. He waited patiently in the stables for the night to pass, so that he can sup and retire. Tomorrow promised to be an exciting day.

 

[Conquestia]

Lara

I smiled at my brother "I believe so.. i assume that is her" I whispered back.

As we continued on the tour my head was spinning trying to see everything. I felt as if she were in a museum rather than her new home. I glanced at my brother to see if he felt the same. I leaned up and whispered into his ear "This place is quite enormous. I feel like im back at the Louvre in Paris" Smiling I glanced around again.

When we reached my room I slowly opened the door and was delighted, it was alot bigger than i had expected. I glanced out to the group again, only to see where my mother and brother would be staying. Thankfully Clay was close. Re-entering my room I began to explore it, finding a closet that was perhaps too large for all my clothes. "Oh well, I'll just have to buy enough to fit in here." I grinned with the thought.

Stretching a bit, i chose to explore for myself. I was dying to see the stables, and i figured that there would be finer horses here than the local stable hacks I had been forced to ride. Opening the door gently I stepped out, and descended the stairs. I walked down the hall until i found what i figured was a back door or some type of servant enterance. I stepped down slowly, walking towards the direction that I hoped was the stables. Finally I saw them, I peered into the dim light and stepped in the doorway. Smiling I glanced at the first horse, petting its nose lightly.

Suddenly I thought I heard something. "Hello...?" She called gently..

 

[White Queen]

Marie

Marie entered the manor through the servants door and went straight to the kitchen in a hurry, she had gone to the town market to pick up some things that were needed in the kitchen for dinner, and she had taken too much, she had arrived late ,she had seen the baron´s carriage at the front door, that meant he was here along with his new wife. Marie hoped Miss Annabelle had worn the dress she had prepared for her...

" Who am I kidding... of course she did not wear it... she was not very happy to recieve the news of her fathers new bride coming this day, I dont think she wanted to give a very pleasant first impression... I just hope i do not get in trouble with the Baron for not being here and helping my lady to dress appropiately... not that it is easy... " Marie giggles and walks into the kitchen. Natasha is working peeling potatoes andshe looks up at her.

" Hello Natasha... they are all here arent they? " Marie drops the basket she carried the table " .

 

[MissVictoria]

Anne Martyn

At her first opportunity, Anne slipped around a dark corner and dissapeared. She doubted that anyone would notice, in the hectic moments of her new family's arrival.

Departing quickly, Annabelle fled out the front doors to the one place that she knew she could find solace. Half running to the stables, her wild hair bounced in the wind behind her, a pleasant feeling which she enjoyed. By the time she reached the distant outbuilding, she was half out of breath, and feeling much better.

There would be plenty of time for introductions later, she reasoned, though in her heart-of-hearts she knew that she was making excuses for an uncomfortable situation.

Her new stepmother and sister were so beautiful. So different from anything that Anne herself was used to-- they seemed almost like fragile trinkets which should be kept under lock and key. She had noted how the menservants had viewed them each appreciatively, and saw also jealousy in the eyes of the women servants, who would never wear lace so fine...

Annabelle had felt jealous pangs herself, which she had done her best to hide. Anne was not certain that she understood the jealousy, for the two women seemed to represent everything that she herself denounced. She was pretending that she did not know the reason was George, and how he had looked upon them with such favor in his eyes.

The stables smelt of familiar straw, sweat, leather and manure. The scent had become familiar and comfortable to her over the years she had spent her, and they did much to improve her mood. Smiling, she walked to Eternity's stall and was delighted to see that he was already in full tack, and ready to be taken out.

Sitting down in a stool near the back of the stall, Anne watched the dapple gelding munching on his evening sweetoats, and waited for the horse to finish. As she sat, she called up the images of her new family, each in turn. She was not sure that she liked any of them. She knew at least, that they made her very uncomfortable.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the light padding of footsteps as someone entered the stable. From her shadowed corner in the stall, Anne watched her new stepsister Lara walk into the stable and glance around. Blast! she thought, her solitude interrupted by the very thing she was trying to escape. How dare this newcomer infringe upon her territory!

Lara walked up to Eternity, obviously not seeing Annabelle, and began to pet and fuss over him. Anger rose within Anne, and she stood up quickly from her stool, knocking it aside. The horse bickered, and Lara called out "Hello?"

Anne stepped from the shadows near the animal, her copper eyes glaring into Lara's.

"Eternity is mine." Anne spat, grabbing the horses reigns, and kicking the door of the stall open as Lara jumped back in suprise. The horse started, and Anne took a few moments to settle him, before mounting Eternity with ease and spurring him quickly from the stables.

Then there was nothing but the sound of hoofbeats pounding away, growing ever lighter.

 

[Conquestia]

Lara

I jumped back in surprise "Oh im sorry!" I furrowed my brow at Anne's words "I was merely petting him I dont mean to..." But it was too late, the girl had taken off. "Damnit.." I mumbled to myself with a sigh. I hadn't meant to pose a threat, nor steal her horse. But I suppose I had given that impression. Id imagined that this change wasn't easy for her, but it was not like it was easy for me either. I frowned then let myself relax. I decided not to let one person discourage me, once she knew I was not a threat I supposed she would come around. Shrugging I started down the row of horses. Each of them was quite beautiful, I read the names to myself. At one of the stalls towards the end I froze, inside was the cutest filly I'd ever seen. I read her name, Countess.

"Hey there..." I smiled, gently patting her face, she stuck her head out and I rubbed her ears gently. "You are just adorable.." I murmured, glancing out the barn to where Anne had departed.

 

[Zircon]

George Lampsere

“Eternity is mine.”

George’s was close to being asleep when his world was intruded upon. By no less than the booming voice of Miss Annabelle. He rose to greet her, but before he could, he felt the whoosh of a horse passing by him.

Apparently, Miss Annabelle was being a bit trite at whoever else had entered the stables. George wanted to call out to her but he knew that she would not listen. She never listened, although she would pretend to. George laughed a hearty laugh at whom he considered his little sister, the Little Princess. She was the closest thing to a family he had besides his mother. The Baron was an adequate father figure, a surrogate father if at best. Stern and strict, George learnt to respect the man that he called My Lord.

Then in the gloom of the stables, he saw the person that made Miss Annabelle run off before dinner. Even in the dim light, he could see the auburn hair of the new Baroness’ daughter. George stood in the shadows a bit longer to drink her countenance. He had a vision of her being the sun flooding the dark stables with her presence. Each action bespoke of her beauty and stately manners.

George stood out of the shadows and politely bowed, “Good afternoon, my Lady. Welcome to Stormswept Heights. My name is George. I’m the head groom of the Manor.”

George averted his eyes, more to prevent any disrespect to a highborn. He wanted to look deep into her beautiful blue eyes, but that action would be construed as rudeness on his part. Holding the esteem of the Baron and the Little Princess was his paramount duty.

“I see that you have met dear Countess here. She is a fine filly. Well mannered and friendly, and very fast. My Lady, the Countess here is yours. Just as dear Eternity is Lady Annabelle’s,” he said as he too stroked the filly’s ears.

George then proceeded to saddle Countess. He made doubly sure that the crupper and girth were very secure.

“My Lady, would you like to take Countess out for a walk?” George asked after saddling his own serviceable roan, Willow.

He was worried about Annabelle. Perhaps his voice conveyed that, even as his face and eyes betrayed no such concern. It was close to suppertime. There would be hell to pay if she was late. Especially if she was not “presentable” at the supper table. He wanted to go find her and bring her back. Although how he was going to accomplish that task with the Annabelle was beyond him at this point. He told himself he will cross the bridge when he came upon it. He knew too that he could not abandon the Baroness’ daughter alone here in the stable. Impropriety had to be avoided at all cost. He was out of ideas as far as how to proceed, and so the question he put forth to the Baroness' daughter…

 

[Conquestia]

Lara

I glanced up from the filly and smiled at George, stepping forward to shake his hand. "Hello George, pleasure to meet you. My name is Lara. My family and I just moved her... but erm.. im sure you already knew that" I felt the flush running up my face. My eyes fell over the groom, he was quite handsome, I'd decided, and perhaps one of the only welcoming people I'd met so far.

When he suddenly averted his eyes I couldn't help but wonder why. But with his comment about Countess being mine, i could barely withhold my excitement. "Oh I'd absolutely love it!" I nearly lost my composure, but stopped myself, calmly walking to take the horse from him. "Thank you.." I said quietly.

I walked outside, the same way Anne had just gone, and holding tight to Countess, I waited, looking back at George. "Ready..?"

 

[papillon24]

Natasha

I turned in suprise to see Marie enter thought the door so late.

"Yes Marie, they are all here. They are all just getting settled in the mannor." I looked down at the basked to see all the wonderful things she had broughten for the supper.

"Those tarts look wonderful. I see the baker has chanded his recipie."

I take the basket from her setting it on the stool for the moment.

"Oh, Just to let you know Marie, Miss Annabelle was not wearing that beautiful new dress you prepared. But she did look quite stunning in her riding atire." I chuckled at my joke as preceed to prepare the potatoes and hen for dinner.

 

[White Queen]

Marie

" Riding atire? ", Marie stared wide eyed at Natasha, " You have to be kidding right? Riding atire! . marie droped into a chair, she was surely going to get into some trouble for this, she was supposed to be in charge of everything concerning Miss Annabelle, her dressing included, and even when they had gotten to be friends Marie had the hardest times trying to convince the Lady to wear more... Lady like.

" So Im guessing the meeting did not went very good right? " Marie turned to natasha again... " Well what done is done... " Do you need any help around here? ".

 

[DeityMun]

As he was shown the location of his room, he shot a glance in the direction of the newly married couple, and without comment enterted his new living quarters. Closing the door solidly behind him, he stood just on the other side of the door and let his eyes wander freely around the spacious room for a few short minutes. It was a nice room he had to admit - if only to himself - and certaintly bigger than his old room. But it was not in his old residence, it was not with his old father... his only father... and so it would never do. It would simply never be sufficent.

Moving across the room to one of the windows, he stood and looked out upon the land that seemed untouched by human hands. He waited there, thoughts pouring freely through his mind, while the majority of his bags were brought up to his room. He ignored those that brought them, in that he didn't turn or nod, not a single acknowledgement of their presence... until they were done leaving his bags in the room.

Then, and only then, Clay spoke aloud to them, letting his voice move about the room of it's own accord, as he didn't turn his eyes away from the window. "Thank you," he said quietly, and it was all he would offer them at this moment. He would fight this place as best he could, until there was no fight left in him.

Turning once the door had shut, he moved to sit on his bed and dragged one of the bags over with him. Sighing quietly, he sat in the silence for a moment and listened to the house. The walls were far too thick, the place far too quiet when one was locked away in their room, and he didn't like it one bit. That said, a hot bath would do him wonders right now, and he frowned to himself as he realized he was unsure where the washroom was.

Digging through his bags, he laid set after set of clothes out on his bed until he found something adequate for the time being... light colored, soft cotton pants, a white linen button down shirt, and a dark blue vest. Folding his clothes together, he snatched up a smaller leather bag full of soaps and cologne. With a final glance around the room, he opened his door and exited his room, in time to see his sister Lara moving away from the bottom of the staircase. Off to explore her new home, no doubt. And he couldn't hold it against her if she was. He wanted her to be happy, above all... even if some others weren't so concerned with such things.

Decending the stairs himself, he glanced left, then right, unsure of which way to go. Shrugging, he choose one and began to move slowly down the halls, looking in random doorways as he moved. Up ahead, he heard the sounds of movement and the tell-tale signs of a conversation being exchanged, and headed straight for the sounds. Rounding a corner, he found himself suddenly in the doorway of the kitchen, and looking at two suprisingly attractive ladies (maids, perhaps?), Marie and Natasha.

Pausing in the doorway, he glanced behind him, wondering if the washroom was nearby on the off chance, then shook his head slightly, blonde silken locks of hair falling haphazardly into his face as he did so. Stepping just inside the kitchen, he cleared his throat and spoke, a gentle baritone that may or may not carry above the sound to their ears.

"Excuse me, ladies... could you help me, please?"

 

[papillon24]

Natasha

The smells started to arise from the oven in the corner of the kitchen. The country hen from the land was almost ready.

"thats fine Marie. Diner is almost ready." I turned to find a young gentleman standing at the door.

"Excuse me, ladies... could you help me, please?" The tone is his voice a bit confused. I looked down in his hands and by the look of it he was looking for the washroom.

"Let me show you where to find the washroom. I know this place can be quite confusing at times. You must be Clay."

Turning quickly back to Marie " When dinner ready could you just set it out to cool a bit before being served? that is if you don't mind. I'll be back shortly."

I started back down the hall with him quickly in tow. "This way master Clay" I smiled sweetly before turning to leave.

I wandered through the corridors till we came upon the washroom. "If you need anything more Master Clay, just let one of us in the household know and we will do our best to accomidate you."

 

[DeityMun]

Smiling to the lady... Natasha, although he did not know this at the time, he gave a silent nod and began to follow her through the hallways, trying to remember the path they took. He was never going to learn this place.

Finally at the washroom, though, he pushed open the door to look inside, shaking his head slightly at the size of it. Who needed rooms this large?

Looking back to the girl that had helped him, he smiled lightly and raked his fingers back through his hair, sweeping it from his face. His voice was just as quiet as before, and it was clear he didn't plan on speaking loudly anytime soon.

"Thank you for showing me around a bit... I think I'm going to get lost so easily around here." Frowning slightly, he glanced up and down the hallway, shaking his head slightly, then turning his eyes back to her, "And please... just call me Clay."