Moonlit Murder
 

James always thought his life was full, and that he was happy, that was, until he met her. Her name was Henrietta, and she was absolutely breathtaking in every way. He had only had one short conversation with her at a mutual friends dinner party. He was walking home from this very dinner party, and going mad over her. She was the only thing on his mind, and for once, he didn't consider making her his...'toy' for once in his life.

http://www.menewsha.com/forum/member...cture40648.jpg

Henrietta Allenson daintily covered a yawn with her hand and then adjusted the lace there. Her eyes flitted over the dwindling party goers. People were making their good-byes as it was getting late. She brushed a small bit of dark hair back behind her ear. "Emma, dear," she said as her blond friend approached her, "let us retire for the night. The Lord's guests are leaving. I feel we should too."

Emma was shorter than Henrietta. Her face sank a bit at Henrietta's words but, she knew that Henrietta was right. "Yes, let us retire. Your father will worry if you are out much later." Emma clung to Henrietta's arm and smiled. "You are only bored because Lord Alexander has taken his leave." Emma and Henrietta both stifled a small giggle.

"Emma, do not be so unbecoming in such company!" Henrietta took out her fan and hid her face. A man approached them both and gave a small bow. "I see you ladies are making your way home?"

"Yes, Sir Calvin. The moon has risen and we tire from the evening's events. Twas a fine gathering, though. And your friend Mister James Alexander was quite fascinating." Henrietta said.

"Yes," the man said "I have never seen him take such a shine to anyone before. He and I attended the same lecturing school together some years back. A very well bred man. Shall I have you escorted out?"

"No," Henrietta replied. "Just have your man bring our carriage 'round to the front, would you?" The girls walked down the steps of the home. Henrietta could feel Emma's vibrating from holding in a fit of laughter. She rolled her eyes. Once the door behind them closed, she said "Speak your peace woman before you vibrate off to the stars!" Emma released very loud laughter.

"Your face has been rose pink since bringing up his name and you try to hide it!" The carriage pulled up. The driver stepped down and helped the girls into the carriage. Soon after, the horses plodded off. The girls sat in idle chatter of the nameable persons of the party, Henrietta doing her best to avoid speaking of Lord Alexander. When the carriage pulled around to Emma's house, she left saying something about Henrietta and James but, Henrietta did not hear her. Her thoughts were elsewhere.

Lord Alexander was a handsome man, no doubt. Well bred and cultured as a man of his stature should be. Still, there was something odd about him. She could not put her finger on it, though. Perhaps it was just part of her imagination. Henrietta's thoughts paused. Her dark eyes looked out of the coach and saw Lord Alexander. "Driver, slow yourself!" She said as politely as she could.

"Lord Alexander! Excuse me! Lord Alexander? It is I, Henrietta Allenson. We met at the party?"

((Sorry. I like to be detailed. :P

Also! Think I found a pic I like! Ignore my description above and substitute it for the pic I will post in a bit!

There we go. I even edited it to kinda match pic. Kinda. Lol.))

James continued walking with his hands jammed in his coat pockets for warmth, his mind stuck on the enchanting woman. He suddenly noticed the moon was out, and wondered if he had brought any tools. He searched his pockets, but could find nothing. A thought popped into his head, he wondered if Henrietta was old enough for marriage, surely a man of his stature would have little trouble with her, he was sure Sir Calvin didn't have friends of much higher class than he, and judging by her attire and etiquette, he assumed they were from the same stature.

He looked up to see the woman on his mind leaning out of a coach and calling to him, he face lit in the dull glow of the moonlight.
In an instant he got the image of her laying in that moonlight, her perfect dressed stained in blood and her body twitching as she bled out. He shook his head to remove this image, as it made him sick to his stomach.
He smiled up at her instinctively
"Hello, Henrietta. Could you not bear my absence?" He said with a short laugh, walking closer to the coach.
(that's fine ^^ I'll try to be more detailed, and I like the picture)

((No worries. Just do what you can. No pressure at all! I promise! :hug: What was marrying age in Victorian Times? Like...14-16? Let's say she's 18.))

Henrietta covered her mouth as she giggled. "Perhaps not, good Lord!" She smiled at him. She thought for a second that perhaps it was not so proper to take such humor with a man. She was certain that her father would not appreciate such humor. No matter, he wasn't here.

"Mister Pennister, please stop." The carriage stopped. "Why do you walk on such a chilled night, Lord Alexander? Would you care for a lift to...where ever it is you are off to?" She could see that he was cold. "On second thought, I insist that you come with me, good sir. Tis too cold for you to be out on such a night. Tell my man where you are off to and we shall bring you there." Her white gloved hand popped the carriage door open and the small steps fell forward.

((Thank you! ^-^ Yeah I think 16 was about normal, but my knowledge isn't too extensive of that time))

He enjoyed her giggles and smiled, walking closer until he was almost directly in front of the coach. "Oh, Miss Harrietta, I need no assistance. But.." He hesitated, still wondering her age before he continued. He decided to say it anyway, what father of a young woman would let her go to such a party? He proceeded to accept that she was old enough. "I could not turn down the insistence of such an enchanting young woman" He cautiously stepped into the coach and took a seat next to her, nodding his head slightly. "I greatly appreciate your invitation," He smiled again, trying to charm her. "You are indeed a good woman, many would drive on without a seconds thought of a dark man walking down the street."
He pulled the door back shut and addressed the driver, "Mister Pennister, I believe. Yes, my home is just a few streets away. Take a left here and continue straight until Shaul street" He turned his attention back to Harrietta as the Coach began moving again, "Dear Lady, I believe you asked why I walk on such a chilled night?" He hesitated, knowing it was because he was looking for a victim, he searched desperately for a reason. "One of my horses is sick, I haven't had a coach for two days now," He smiled and laughed nervously "But it's okay, Dear girl, I enjoy a good walk, and many kind folk that I am acquainted with don't mind a guest in their coach, such as you." He sat relaxed, but inside he was going mad again. This close to such a woman, at such an hour. His heart was pounding. He could feel the sweat begin. The adrenaline came in a quick burst, and he had to tighten his arms to stop them from shaking. His reason was not very believable.

((My boyfriend and I are watching the live action Avatar: The Last Airbender movie. DO NOT WATCH. It's awful. Seriously one of the worst movies I have ever seen. Ever.))

The coach lurched forward. Henrietta placed a hand on his. "Do not be so tense Lord Alexander. You are amongst friends here." She smiled softly as she removed her hand. "Goodness. If you told Daddy of a sick horse, he would have it shipped to the factory in a night! How compassionate of you to keep the poor beast. I do hope it sees good health soon." Henrietta lost her self in the clopping sound of the hooves.

"Tell me, Lord. What business did you have at Lord Calvin's engagement this evening?" She faultered and chided herself. She should not have brought up such a tender subject. She did not wish to speak of her reasons for being there, but now it could not be helped.

((Hahaha, I've heard that. I'd probably start yelling at the movie.))

He could feel his cheeks flush when she placed her hand on his, he smiled at her. "Well, I have grown very close to my horses, and all the animals I keep. I would feel as if I'm loosing a friend to get rid of Harold. He should be in good health soon, I have a very accomplished medic with him."
He drifted off as well, thinking of an acceptable reason. After a few minutes of silence, he cleared his throat and answered; "We attended the same lecturing school some years ago, and have not had a chance to see each other much since then. It seemed a good time to see him. We had a good long conversation before you showed up.." He leaned in with a grin on his face and whispered to her "I enjoyed your company more, though"

((We were. I don't think Shyamalan had even SEEN the series. ALL of the names are pronounced wrong! He tries to cram the entire series into one movie! There is a fight scene that he tries to do in one take, so it looks awful. I think that he wanted to make it because his nieces and nephews said it was really cool and he knew that there was no other possible way for his family to ever get an acting career based on their own talent so, he cast his family members and spent as much money as he could on the movie to get them seen and himself more money. Sadly, people are buying into it.))

Henrietta blushed and turned her face from him. "Good sir, you..." she lost her breath. "You..." She had no idea what to say. She knew it would be improper to do anything with him. Her father would disapprove and they had no escort. She took her fan out and blocked her face from him, hiding herself as much as she could. I could just die, she thought to herself.

The coach came to a stop. "'Scuse me, sir but we're 'ere!" There was some shuffling above their heads. The short, bald driver opened the door, dusted the steps with a small brush and bowed. The suit that the man was in did not seem to match him too well.

Henrietta wondered if she could be any more flushed and red than she currently was. She did her best to melt back into the corner away from James. "Per...perhaps...you should go," she squeaked. "There...will...there..." She stopped and cleared her throat, trying to sit up a bit without coming out from hiding. "My father will be hosting a party in a week's time. Perhaps you shall attend? I am sure he will be delighted to meet you." She started to fan herself. A tiny bead of sweat appeared on her temple. "It is in the far east of town, on the outskirts. The large blue house, with the war memorial fountain...Shall I send my man by to get you?"

She was out of breath and fanned herself more. She could not believe what a handsome man he was. She knew he should not be so close but, she wanted him to be. She just did not know how to handle it.

He softened his smile, turning to the man. "Thank you, dear sir, your services are truly more than needed." Then he turned back to Henrietta "Dear girl, your pink cheeks illustrate the magnificent life and beauty you have." He softly placed a hand on her cheek, admiring her as he spoke, then lowered it to her hand, "I would be more than delighted to attend your fathers party. In a weeks time, Harold should be good as new, and I shall not need assistance getting there." He smiled, brought her hand up to his lips and kissed it "Meeting you was simply fate." He briskly walked out into the street and danced on the side walk ecstatically, calling back, "Au revoir, You magnificent woman!"
Once he had danced far enough away that she couldn't see his face, he grinned big, knowing what he had done, and thinking of his intentions.

Henrietta could have feinted, she was so warm. As Mr. Pennister closed the door, Henrietta drew the curtain closed and melted down into her seat. Mr. Pennister climbed back into the bench. "Should be home soon Miz Allenson." She didn't care. She could fly. Maybe it was fate or maybe it was chance. Emma was right. Henrietta wanted nothing more than to just disappear with that man.

The coach plodded on.

***
MEANWHILE ACROSS TOWN
***

The bobby walked nonchalantly down the street. It was a bit cold but, nothing he couldn't handle, like he always did. The night had been quiet. A few prostitutes were sent on their way. He hadn't the heart to fine them, as was protocol.

He stopped where an alley way met the street. It was almost too narrow for him to walk down. He squinted in the dim light. There was someone down there. It looked as though they were asleep. Probably just a homeless man asleep in a stoop, he told himself. He decided he would go down there and tell the man to move along. Such vagabonds were not meant to be seen on the streets.

He turned himself a bit to make sure he didn't hit the walls of either building. He walked down a ways and heard his boot plop into a puddle. He rolled his eyes "Damn fools pissin' in the street..." he whispered to himself. He continued walking down. "Oi! You there! Move along, would yeh?!" He grabbed a small lantern off of a hinge by a back door. The flame was dying but, it was still there.

He walked down further. He could see the sleeping man a bit more clearly now. "Didn' you 'ere me?! I said move along, yeh fool!" He was nearly on top of the man now. He walked closer and brought the light down to the man's face. It's expression was twisted with pain and fear. The skin was pale. The bobby lost breath, his eyes went wide. His hand shook as he moved the dim light over the body. The man had been gutted. There was nothing left of his insides. Nothing at all! He shone the light on the ground and saw his boot glisten in the dim light. Cuts ran all along the man's arms, legs and torso. The bobby went to scream, but nothing came out.

He backed away. As he did so, he tripped on something and fell backward. He was too scared to care what he tripped on. He felt his hand sink into cold, half caked blood. He got to his feet as quickly as he could and ran back out of the alley way. Once there, he grabbed his whistle and blew as hard as he could, making his way back to the precinct.

***
***

The coach pulled into the long driveway of Allenson Hall. Henrietta heard the tinkling of the fountain. She saw that all of the lanterns had been put out. She knew she was late but, cared not. It was her father's idea that she go, after all.

The coach came to a stop. Mr. Penniston popped open the door for her and waddled up the steps to the door. Once there, he opened it and bowed. "Good eve'nin Miz Henrietta."

"Good evening, Mister Penniston. I humbly thank you for your assistance this evening. I would hope that our carriage guest will--"

"Be our lit'le secret? Az you wis, Miz." He smiled a kind smile that Henrietta returned. She gave a small curtsey and closed the door.

James was already back in his house. He was just finishing cleaning the blood off his knife when he heard the bell. He grinned. He placed the knife back in its place, in the small metal box, under the large pile of folders and files, in the large box, under the floor. He grinned, admiring his work. Then he sighed as his thoughts drifted back to Henrietta. He slowly removed his formal clothing, to get ready for sleep. He tried to clear his mind and focus on dressing. He laid still in bed, closing his eyes and slowing his breathing. He smiled, imagining Henrietta as he drifted to sleep.

((Am I keeping you up? It's just after 10 here. I know it is summer n' all but I dun wanna keep you up if you're tired. Just let me know if you want to call it night.))

((hahah no not at all! :3 Its around 1 here, but I usually stay up a few more hours anyway. I'm glad I have something to do for once! ^-^))

(( Yay! I am too! I have been looking for a good RP for a week or so now. Well, let us move on then!))

Henrietta crept up the grand stair and down the hall. She thought she was in the home stretch.

"Henrietta," said a calm, stern voice. Henrietta nearly jumped out of her skin. She had to hold her heart in her chest. She turned around.

"Oh, mother! You gave me such a fright!"

Her mother chuckled softly. "Where have you been, child? Your father nearly had the entire army up in arms looking for you."

"I do apologize, mother. I was at Lord Calvin's, as father had told me to go. There were many important people there, Lord Calvin being a man of stature as he is. I had lost track of the time." She gave a small curtsy.

Her mother walked over to Henrietta and embraced her, kissing her softly on the cheek and smiling. "Do not get yourself so up in arms, my child. All is well. Get thee to bed, do you hear? Your father has an important day tomorrow. He is being sworn in as cheif of police tomorrow and we are all expected to be there."

"Yes mother," she replied. Henrietta trotted off to her room and swiftly dressed into her night gown. The sat in front of her vanity mirror, let her hair down and looked at herself. "Lord James Alexander." She smiled and removed her choke necklace. "He is quite handsome," she said to her reflection as she began to brush her hair. She smiled at herself. "We shall see him soon at father's party." She put her brush down and sat herself in bed, falling asleep soon after.

***
***

The bobby reached the precinct, out of breath. He held his heart as he leaned on the counter. "I need...the...chief," he gasped. He was administered behind into the offices and came to the man's desk. "Sir!" He saluted in a meek manner. "Corpse sir! By Abby's Close! It's horrifying! He's all...twisted...an'...an'...sir. It's terrible!"

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((Feel free to post. I left the Chief's dialogue up to you! Only a matter of hours before there is a new one to make the story a bit saucier. >:3 I need to get going to sleep. I will post again tomorrow after noon. I get home around 4:30 PDT.))

((Alright, sweet dreams! ^-^ I think I'm gonna turn in too, everything it starting to spin. I'll make a real post in the morning o.o;))

The chief was in the middle of packing up the rest of his things, he looked very tired. Not only tired because of all the paperwork and packing, but tired from the years of work. He was hardened from it. It had beat down on him. He was getting slower, always tired. He almost felt depressed sometimes. His red hair was dulled and starting to turn gray. His face and hands were wrinkled, and he was in no shape, psychical or mental, to be the chief of police any longer. Great. He though The night I finally end it, and there's a murder. He set down the box he was holding and looked up at the bobby. He mind was drifting, and it took him a moment to find the words. He opened his mouth and made some grunts before clearing his throat and speaking. "Uh...yes. Yes. Thank you. I'll send someone. You wouldn't mind guiding someone back to it, would you?" As soon as he finished speaking he felt relieved to be done, and went back to looking at the picture he was holding. It was his wife. He sighed and set it carefully in the box with the rest of his belongings.

The bobby stared at the man blankly. Perhaps it was that his pants were covered in what must have been at least day old blood, but he was having difficulty accepting that the man could just brush this off so easily. He felt his hart falter and his knees grew heavy. It was time for a nap. The bobby hit the floor.

***
***

Henrietta carefully flicked her eggs across her plate with a fork. She sighed and leaned her head on her free hand. A short, old woman approached the table and squeaked "Are you not hungry, miss?" Henrietta placed the fork down on the table and waved her hand. The squeaky old woman took the plate away.

Henrietta rose from her place at the table and stepped into the drawing room. She watched as her older brother and her father quietly discussed some matter of importance. Her father looked over at her and smiled. Henrietta slowly stepped to him, smiling a childishly sweet smile. The man embraced his daughter and kissed her on the top of the head. "Might I enquire the topic of conversation, father?" She asked sweetly.

The old, barrel chested man let out a gruff chuckle. "Great matters of importance, daughter! Your brother and I speak of your up coming marriage." Henrietta's eyes grew large. "Your brother seems to think that Lord Calvin will make a suitable husband for you. He tells me that the man is educated, well bred and has a fortune in off shore fishing. Was this not the man whom I sent you to last night with your wispy little friend?:

Henrietta took a small step away from her father. She lost her breath. "Yes, with Emma." She trailed off. "Lord Calvin is...so..." Her brother looked at her. He wore the smirk that seemed to accompany him no matter where he was. "So..." She opened her mouth to say something but nothing came out so, her mouth stayed agape. She blinked and stuttered. "so...kindly. Yes...yes. He is a very kind man."

"Henrietta, I was just telling Father that Lord Calvin had informed me that he and you got along swimmingly. He is as of yet unmarried and he does love to hunt." Her father and her brother both grinned at that. Henrietta did not know what to say. Her mind was flooded with thoughts of Lord Alexander but, to speak against the marriage arrangements of her father? She was certain she would be given lashings or imprisoned for such things."

Her heart heavy, she curtsied and excused herself from the room. She numbly walked up the stairway to her room where her attendant waited to dress her for the upcoming inauguration. Henrietta looked upon her silky blue dress. Usually, she would be so happy to wear it, it was her favorite. But now, she did not know how to feel.

The chief jumped up and ran to the bobby, calling out "Help! help! I need some help! The bobby's fainted!" two other men ran in and attended to him. The chief went into a daze. The smell of copper was overwhelming. He couldn't think anymore. The whole night became a blur.

***
***

James slept later than usual. He always did after a game. He propped himself up on one arm, looking at the clothing he had set out in disgust. He hated getting dressed. Glancing around the rest of the room, he noticed It was dark and plain. His house was smaller than average for his statue, but he didn't care. He liked hiding it.

Suddenly he heard barking. His heart raced. He broke into a cold sweat. Then Oliver, one of his dogs, ran in and jumped on him. He always did this if James slept in later than 12pm. He breathed out, relived. Oliver then jumped on him and started licking his face to wake him up. He laughed a little and hugged him, but also tried to push him off as he was a 200 pound Bernese Mountain Dog.

The dog quickly jumped off him and he sat up, rubbing his eyes and yawning. He got up and made his way slowly to the bathroom to get some water in his face, then went to making breakfast. He had one piece of toast with jam. He waited as long as he could before he got dressed, then hurriedly did it in a few minutes before making his way to the police station. It was his dear friends last day.

The station was only a few blocks away so he walked. He got there early, so he could have a conversation with him. Once he made it there he quickly found his old friend. "Harry." He greeted him with a warm smile. They both looked uncomfortable. James adjusted his tie. Their conversation would not be pleasant.

Harry cleared his throat and briskly shook James' hand. "Good to see you, James. We must retire to my office." The old man walked away from the open area and into his office which was packed in boxes and quite clean. he closed the door and faced James. "There was an...incident last night, reported to me by one of the bobbies. The young man is scared out of his wits, right now. I've sent him on leave and it has all been taken care of." An old, calloused finger pointed to him "Your deeds will be ill received by my replacement. You must be more careful in the future if you're to continue with yourself."

***
***

Henrietta stepped down the stairs in her favorite dress, with a lovely hat on to match. She did not want to think of the arrangements her father was making about her future.

She listened to her feet hit the cobble stones of the drive and watched Mr. Pennister open the door for her. She got in, and sat down. A few moments later, her brother joined her. "Mother and father shall ride ahead. Mother wishes to meet with the wives there." Henrietta nodded in acknowledgment. "I suppose you wish to know all of father's plans for your wedding?" She shook her head.

"I would like it all to be kept a surprise," she said, half sarcastically. The carriage plodded on.

----------

((hangs around in the shadows, doing homework. We are talking about reproductive health. I may be a "grown-up" but you know...I really don't need this...I will poison my uterus if I want...))

James followed Harry to his office briskly. His mind rushed at the news. He nodded softly, acknowledging that he understood as he thought it over. He breathed out slightly. "Harry. I feel horrible. I'm terribly sorry about your bobby, and how sloppy I was. I should have cleaned up better.." He sighed and looked away, "But I didn't..."

He wasn't himself today. His mind was still wrapped around Henrietta. He felt sick to his stomach. His eyes fell to the ground. "I went out..and I met someone. She's so..intriguing...my mind has been...preoccupied.."

He noticed a coach pull up. Two people got out. The replacement and his wife, he assumed. He looked at Harry and smiled softy. "Harry, Thank you. You've been good to me, and this city." He shook Harry's hand and walked out of the office.

Harry opened his mouth to say something but, James walked away too quickly. Harry always found it odd that he had such a relationship with such a peculiar man but, in his heart, he knew James was not a bad person. Just...unique. Harry took one last look at eh office he had held for so many years and let out a sigh that spoke sadness and relief. He stepped out and motioned for a bobby to move the last of the boxes out of there.

***
***

Edmond Allenson curled his silver mustache. His wife, Alma, spoke soft words to the driver of the coach and then wandered off. No doubt to talk to some of the other wives. Edmond's eyes looked around. The front of the precinct was well kept. There were rose bushes under neath the windows and some ivy growing up the red, brick walls. The grass was keenly short and the walkway had an acceptable amount of moss on it. So much so that Edmond chuckled with delight. He took his top hat from under his arm and placed it neatly on his balding head.

Henrietta's coach pulled up soon there after. The first out was Henrietta's brother, Richard. He held his arm out to help his sister, who stepped briskly onto the street and calmly brushed away the wrinkles. Richard grasped at her arm to bring her to their father but, she pulled away. She was in no mood to be pawed at. Richard cleared his throat. She tossed a glare at him that would stop a lesser man dead in his tracks. She calmly, yet angrily, walked away from him and the rest of the crowd that was appearing.

((You may play her family as you see fit, when ever you need to. I shall not stifle your creativity))

James continued walking until he was standing directly in front of the man he assumed was the replacement. He smiled his best charming smile at him. "James Alexander sir, I presume you are the new chief?" He extended a hand, the smile frozen on his face.

Before the man had a chance to answer, or even move, James noticed Henrietta. His heart raced. He almost ran to her, calling out "Henrietta! Dear girl!" His smile became real as he got closer. He put his arms on her sides and spun her around, admiring her dress and every feature of her, "You look simply enchanting!" He was ecstatic. He gave her a hug, wanting to giggle like a school girl. "What brings you to such an occasion, you fantastic woman?"

(Thank you for the control ^-^ and haha I just read your parenthesized post from the other day. You go ahead and poison yourself! You've earned it! XD)

Henrietta startled as she was picked up. She held her hat and closed her eyes until her feet were back on the ground. The people around them were staring. Henrietta took out her fan and hid her blushing face, stifiling a smile. "Lord Alexander. Words cannot express how gratifying it is to see you again." She turned her head back to look at her father and brother, who both scowled at her in return. She ducked her head down behind James's shoulder.

"I am here for my father's coronation as Chief of Police. Ever since retiring from the army, he has wanted to serve the community more." Her eyes darted around, making sure Lord Calvin was no where to be seen. "If it is not asking too much, Lord? Shall we come a bit away from here?" She had a sad sound to her voice. She fanned herself.

Richard turned to his father. "Have you ever seen anything so ghastly? The way he picked her up like that?"

Edmond grumbled. "Indeed, son. You would think that the man was raised by wolves." Harry approached them, smiling his nicest, friendliest smile.

"Good day, sirs." They all shook hands. "Harry Kent. I have heard much of you, Lord Allenson."

"Yes," Edmond replied, still watching his daughter and that strange man walk away.

Harry followed Edmond's gaze. He looked to see the serious and dour look on both the men's faces "Do not worry about her, Sir. Your daughter is in good company," he hoped more than knew as a fact, "That is Lord James Alexander."

Richard's eyes grew wide. "Do you speak of the Alexander family of Cumulo Hall?" Edmond's face changed as well. A family member of the founders of a secret society that ran nearly the entire country. Suddenly, this strange man did not seem to be so brazen and rude.

"The very same," Harry grinned.

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((OMG. So many names! This is fun! Edmond Allenson, father. Richard Allenson, Brother. Henrietta Allenson, daughter. Alma Allenson, wife. Mr. Pennister, coach driver. Did I name her woman attendant? Harry Kent, soon to be ex chief. Cumulo Hall! Mysterious! Lord Calvin, betrothed!

so many names!))

James grinned. Not only was the new chiefs daughter completely taken with him, but the former chief, and his close friend, was awing the new chief with his family's history. Ah, how sweet the moment is. This dear woman is asking me to drift away from the event with her, and her very own father is none other than the new chief of police. He thought happily. He slowly walked away with Henrietta.
"Dear girl, if it not be rude of me to invite you away, my home is only a few blocks from here. Perhaps after the ceremony I might inquire you over for tea? I'm sure Harold would feel in better health if he was visited by such a beautiful woman as yourself." He smiled innocently, gesturing in the direction of his home.

(( hahah XD I know, I'm sorry I haven't made many. I guess I've been a little uninspired lately :P ))

((That is what RPs do! We are here to inspire each other! :hug: Posting now))

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Henrietta put her fan back down at her side. "As much as I would love to accompany you, Lord, I have dire news." Her face dropped. She took a few seconds to breathe and then walked a little ways further from the event, for fear of being seen by Lord Calvin. Once James stepped to her, she closed her eyes and held back tears.

"I have been...betrothed." She took a few deep breaths. "To...Lord Calvin." She turned from him and began to weep.

***
***

Edmond rose an inquisitive and fuzzy silver eyebrow. "Perhaps it is not such a terrible idea to befriend that man, eh?"

Harry chuckled lightly. "Not at all, good sir. He is a kind man, if a little odd. I suppose though that coming from such a secretive family, that is to be expected."

Richard looked to Harry. "What of the man's life? Surely a man of his stature has long since been married or betrothed?"

"Not to my knowledge, sir. Most women he meets he says he does not enjoy the company of."

Edmond let out a hearty laugh. "My dear sir, since when has marriage constituted of happiness? What sort of family would wed for such reasons?" Truly, it was unheard of ((really!)).

Behind them, another coach pulled forward and Lord Calvin joined the group of men. "As we speak of such matters," Richard said. "Sir Kent, this is to be my brother-in-law. Lord Calvin Von Buskirk." Lord Calvin put on his dark brown hat and shook hands with the man.

(( Thank you! ^^ youre a very sweet RP partner! :hug: ^-^ ))

James felt his heart sink. He smiled anyway. It was noticeably weaker and fake. "Oh dear girl, did you believe I had such intentions? I merely enjoy your company, and am sure my lovely pets would as well! Perhaps...We could ask the permission of Lord Calvin, then, or invite him as well?"

The numbness took hold. It was his defense. His eyes glazed over and he smiled a more believable smile. He saw Lord Calvin arrive, and immediately felt his heart beat harder than he ever had before. The rage was building in him hard and fast. He felt like attacking the man, but kept control through years of practice.

He turned and walked to Lord Calvin, Harry, and Henriettas father and brother, of whom he still didn't know the names of. He greeted them warmly. "Sir, I apologize for walking away from you before. I was simply ecstatic to see your daughter. Oh, and My dear friend Calvin, I apologize for treating your fiancee in such a manner, for I was unaware of your engagement." He smiled afterward.

"Dear men, I don't believe I have introduced myself, I'm sure Mister Kent has told you who I am, but I find it unmannerly to not do such for yourself." He looked directly at Henrietta's father, then glanced to her brother "James Alexander, pleased to make your acquaintance." He tipped his hat slightly, still smiling his charming smile.

He was raging on the inside. Every word he thought was inappropriate about Lord Calvin and Henrietta's father. He suddenly turned to Calvin "My dear friend, I had previously invited Henrietta over for tea, and now that I know of your engagement, I would like to invite you as well. It has been a long time, my dear friend, I would like you to meet Oliver and Harold as well." He smiled, knowing Calvin would know the names were of his pets.

Richard and Edmond introduced themselves. They seemed confused about his ecstatic personality and random changes. They seemed even more confused about the names he had spoken of to Calvin. He smiled. "It is lovely to meet you, Sir Edmond and Sir Richard. I am quite envious that you have raised such a charming young girl." His gaze drifted away from their faces to some unseen object in the distance "I would enjoy having children of my own...one day..." His voice got quieter, he trailed off for a few minutes.

Suddenly he snapped back into conscious thought, and blushed. "I apologize for that, gentlemen, you'll have to excuse my moments of silence. Oliver is my dog, and Harold is one of my horses. They are my two newest pets, and Calvin has yet to meet them. As for now, my pets are the closest things to children I have. You see, I'm a widow, and haven't quite gotten over my dear Clarissa..." He sighed and looked down, as the men around him fell awkwardly quiet.

(( sorry for such a late reply o.o;; I was thinking of things to say ^^; ))