You take the train from London to Derby, watching the endless green and pleasant hills of the English countryside pass by. The train offers modest comforts, but Bromley’s presence ensures the undivided attention of the train staff, and you are well rested by the time you arrive in the city of Derby.

From there, you check the connections to Lesser Edale. The village can be reached from Derby via motor omnibus leaving Derby at 7:52 a.m., 2:12 p.m., and 9:40 p.m., or by hired car. Hikers from Derby need nearly six hours to arrive in Lesser Edale.

The valley of the Derwent is one of the most beautiful regions in England, and its upper reaches frequently are compared to the Lakes district. You find the limestone cliffs and outcrops, the lovely wooded vales, and the splendid waterfalls refreshing after the dank mornings and dangers of London. The countryside is immaculately green and the fences well-tended. The rain seems clean and fresh after the grimy droplets of London; however, dark storm clouds are on the horizon and a cold wind is blowing.

Lesser Edale sits in the Edale Valley in the Derbyshire Peak District. The area is known for its natural beauty of rolling hills, valleys, and streams. Three miles south of the village stands Mam Tor, on which lies the remains of an Iron Age hill fort (a hike of about an hour) and, half a mile further is the Blue John Cavern where banded fluorite is mined.

The village of Lesser Edale is as beautiful as its setting. There are about thirty homes in the village (including two which still have thatch for roofing), the Laughing Horse pub, the Pitchlock Modern Mercantile store, a small modern church (beside the foundations of the Elizabethan-era church unfortunately burnt in 1906), and a veterinary clinic serving the upper valley and adjacent vales.

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

Naturally, Dermot goes to check into the inn. Leaving his bag behind, he returns downstairs for some of the black stuff. As we discuss what to do, he suggests a visit to Harold Short's house to have a word about the monster incident.

There are not many people visible in the small village, but there is music and laughter coming from the Inn. With the skies darkening and a light drizzle turning into a proper shower, it seems that many have taken shelter inside.

Art nods to himself and strides confidently towards the building. "Well, come on then!" he calls to you. "Not much else to do here."

As you enter the pub, the locals look up from their beer and talk, and stare at you with curiosity. The conversation dies down, but Art gives a friendly nod to the crowd. "God bless all here. We're looking for room and board."

The innkeeper, Bill Tatlock, smiles at you. "Na' then, lad! Gerrin withy. Tha'll catch hey death o'cowd!"

[Henceforth using normal English] :)

He informs you that yes, he has rooms available. Four doubles and one single, for 2/6 (2 shillings and 6 pence) per night, breakfast included.
This message was last updated by the GM at 22:47, Tue 25 Sept 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

For the rest of the journey, Rachel had been in a venomous mood, but the country air seemed to have lifted her spirits as they arrived in Lesser Edale.

"I'll take the single, if nobody minds," Rachel muttered as she took the keys and headed up the room.

In reply to Dr. Arthur Digby (Art) (msg # 3):

Gustav would want to explore the area for a little while. Being in England and its old country charms, he wont be able to resist the new landscape. After a quick pint of bitter, he'll go to the fields for a short walk to breath the favorable english air.

Gustav finishes his bitter and heads out to explore the surrounding area. There are a few people out and about in the village and they offer him curious glances and cautious greetings. The evening is cold and dark, with a million stars overhead.

Back at the inn, Art nods at Dermot's suggestion that they talk to the survivor of the attack, Harold Short. He gets up from the table and asks the innkeeper where Mr. Short can be found. The conversation dies down and people look at each other with uncomfortable glances.

"Ol' 'Arold isn't here at the moment, lad," replies the innkeeper. "Haven't seen him for a good while now." He addresses some of the old men that seem permanently attached to the bar. "Oi, anyone know where 'Arold is?"  The men shake their heads and begin to discuss the matter. You overhear the following snippets of information;

The murders happened some three months back. Two were killed, George Osgood and Lydia Perkins. Both were torn to shreds on different nights. A day later, Harold Short was attacked and was lucky to survive. Most fear that the monster that did this will return.

Beware the moon! Many have heard howls when the moon is full. Full moon, they remind you, is just two nights away.

One man swears he caught a glimpse of the thing, “No dog be a-walkin’ round on his back paws. And no dog e’er ripped bone fra bone in such a way as done to poor Lydia.”

The Black Dog of Edale is abroad! A great beast, black as the night, with glowing red eyes. All who hear its howl can be sure death is coming.

Some of the locals mention hearing that the vicar, Jeremy Stratton, said he’d caught a glimpse of the beast.

Ernest Wallop and Ned Loughton, a couple of the locals (and friends of Constable Tumwell), say that Tumwell shot a wild dog and that, as far as he’s concerned, settled the matter.

At this, an old woman says, “He didn’t look nearly so sure when those big-city detectives came out about the killings, nor when the inquest was held.” Murmurs of agreement flow around the bar.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:02, Wed 26 Sept 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 6):

Hearing of the beast, Dermot mutters toward Art:

"Walkin on it's hind legs, eh? If that don't sound like more of the devil's work... perhaps we ought to see the vicar doubly then."

Addressing the innkeeper, he inquires:

"Is there a missus Short? Anyone living at the house?"

In reply to Dermot Murphy (msg # 7):

After taking a long swig of his pint, Bromley nods at Dermot in agreement.

"Yes, I think we should head to the rectory and see the Vicar. Best check in with him anyway..." adding a little more quietly "These country sorts can be a superstitious lot - Meeting him will put us in better standing with the locals. Perhaps we should acquaint ourselves with the village constabulary as well"

With that, he finishes his drink and heads to the bar for another pint of mild and bitter - While doing so he asks the barman directions to both residences
This message was last edited by the player at 21:49, Wed 26 Sept 2018.

Osgood Farm
The Osgood farm lies beyond the village, about half a mile to the west. Edith Osgood greets you and takes you through to the kitchen. Her two children, Maggie and Rachel, cling to her skirt throughout the interview.

Edith, through mounting tears, describes that her husband heard a noise in the barn and went out to investigate, taking his shotgun with him. A moment later she heard him fire and then scream. Peering out, she saw a hairy, hunched-over form race away into the darkness. “It was as tall as a man, and ran howling into the woods. By the Lord’s divine grace, I swear it were a demon,” she says, wiping tears from her eyes. Unable to say more, she apologizes and shows you out.

Parkins’ House
You find John Parkins’ house in the village. A normally resolute and temperate man, Parkins has grown sullen and maudlin since he lost his daughter. Parkins found his daughter’s body after coming home from the Laughing Horse. He is convinced that Lawrence Vane, son of Lord Arthur Vane, had something to do with it. A neighbor saw Lawrence Vane the night of Lydia’s murder. Corty told Parkins that young Vane looked upset, and was hurrying from the direction of the Parkins’ house.

Constable Tumwell and his superiors questioned Lawrence Vane but declared him innocent of involvement. Parkins doesn’t believe the police story and thinks the authorities are protecting the Vane family from scandal. Bitterly, he declares that the Labour Party must correct such class injustice, and proceeds to lecture you about English politics and its oppressive ruling class.

Constable Tumwell
As you return from visiting Parkins, you are approached by the village bobby, Constable Tumwell of the Derbyshire Constabulary;. He is overweight and rotund, and wears a well-kept police uniform.

“Good morning, folks,” he greets you politely. “I hear you’ve been asking people about the killings a few months ago. Mind telling me what your interest is in that?”


This message was last edited by the player at 18:01, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

"Morning, officer. Why, no, not at all. You see, me and my colleagues here are working on a book on subjects like this. We've actually come across several cases in the U.S. that seem to mimic the situation. Curious, don't you think so?" Rachel replied without missing a beat as she stepped forward, the long night's rest helping her feel much like her old self.

"So, what can you tell us about the killings?"

Tumwell frowns at Rachel. “Not much to tell, miss. I tracked down a wild hound and shot it. Gone off to die in the hills. Been no trouble since I shot the blighter, thank God.”

He seems unsure on how to handle Rachel’s approach, and stutters slightly as he provides her with the following information;

He confirms the names of George Osgood and Lydia Perkins. The bodies of each were found on consecutive days, and the attack on Harold Short happened a day later. All incidents took place near to their homes. The bodies were ripped apart and savaged: a grisly sight, not for the squeamish. The Police Examiner confirmed the bites and claw marks were evidence of a wild animal attack, such as a large dog. The incidents happened three months ago, during the nights of the full moon.

Harold Short was knocked unconscious and suffered deep lacerations to the abdomen. He survived and has gone to his brother’s house in Skegness (on the East Coast) to recuperate.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 18:01, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 11):

"Thank you very much, officer. We're so glad you're around to protect us all. So glad. In fact, I think a letter of commendation should be in order." Rachel says, patting the officer as she looked at the others as if to say, "anything else we need from the officer?"

"Police like you are the reason we can roam free without fear, thank you officer."

Tumwell blushes a bit at Rachel's words but seems pleased. "Aye, thank you, miss. I must confess that having those fellas come up from Derby to oversee the murder investigation was an unnerving experience. I'm glad the matter is now closed."

He draws his cape around him and frowns at the dark skies. "If I can help you lot with aught, let me know. I'm usually in the Horse if I'm not doing my rounds."

He starts to walk away but stops and turns to Bromley with a respectful demeanour. "I have a phone at my house should you wish to call anyone, Sir. I suppose you'll be wanting to visit Plum Castle?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:01, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

Hearing Gustav's question, Tumwell explains; The Vane family has lived in Derbyshire for centuries; some say as long as 700 years. They were made lords (titled) during the reign of Charles II, although no one knows exactly why. The Vanes live in the keep of a medieval castle that has otherwise fallen or is in bad repair. Their home is called Plum Castle.

Lord Arthur Vane, a member of the House of Lords, is in his sixties; his heir is Lawrence Vane, aged 23, whose sister is Eloise, who turned 21 a few months ago. A few servants, all old and loyal, also live in “the Keep.”
This message was last updated by the player at 18:01, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

You ask Constable Tumwell to arrange an appointment at Plum Castle. He heads back to his house to make the call, asking you to meet him at the Laughing Horse afterwards.

In the meantime, you walk to the small church to talk to Reverend Stratton. He lives in a small vicarage next to the grounds of the Lesser Edale church. The church itself is newly built, constructed from limestone. Within the church grounds are the village cemetery and the old foundations of the former church building, which was burned down in 1906. The grounds are well tended by the groundskeeper, Jed Wainwright.

Knocking on the door of the vicarage, you are greeted by Mrs. Bright, an elderly lady who keeps house for the Reverend. Mrs. Bright does not allow anyone inside the vicarage and directs you to the church.

The church is quit and beautiful. As you enter, the Reverend comes out from a small office to greet you. He is genial old gentleman, near bald and somewhat hunchbacked due to age. He is dressed in a vicar’s collar and black clerical robes.




This message was last edited by the player at 18:02, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 15):

Dermot makes a polite greeting:
"Good mornin, Reverend. Lovely church you've got here."

Not being one to engage with Anglican tradition, he casts his eyes about the limestone architecture in a subdued gesture of approval.

In reply to Dermot Murphy (msg # 16):

The vicar smiles at Dermot. "A Dublin man if I'm not mistaken. Spent a few years in Ireland in my youth. Such a lovely place. How can I help you?"

He looks a bit alarmed at the large crowd suddenly entering his church but seems friendly enough.
This message was last updated by the player at 18:02, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 17):

Dermot looks back at the vicar.

"Ah, you know the Pale then! Lovely indeed. This 'ere valley's not so bad either."

He looks back toward Bromley and Art.

"Well then boyos, crack on with yer countryman! He's shewn himself to have fierce taste."

Art greets the vicar politely and asks if he would kindly recount the details of what he saw that evening, three months ago. The old priest hesitates but then invites you into his small, cluttered office.

You notice various correspondences on his desk with the letterhead of the Derwent Valley Order of the Golden Druid, as well as a primer for Greek to English translation that occupies a significant portion of the desk. Further cluttering up the desk are various loose papers containing Stratton’s handwritten notes, which obscure an old, leather-bound journal. The word “Vane” can be discerned on one of the loose papers.

“I’ll never forget it,” says Stratton. “I only glimpsed it momentarily, when I was walking home after visiting one of my parishioners. It was around 9 o’clock and the moon was full, although a heavy mist had risen. As I was opening the front gate, I heard a heavy breathing a few feet away. Looking up, I saw a huge dark shape, shrouded in mist. While the form was obscured, its burning red eyes filled me with terror. It let out a bloodcurdling cry and I knew it had seen me. Without thought, I bolted into the house and locked the door, thanking God for my safety!”

He makes the sign of the Cross as he says this. Stratton hopes the shooting of the wild dog by the constable has put an end to things, but notes he has reservations that the matter is over. Howls are still being heard during nights of the full moon, even if there have been no further attacks. He expresses sorrow and hopes that village life can return to normal, while also pointedly saying that no one wants such tragic events raked up and the families should be left to grieve in peace.

In reply to GM (msg # 19):

Gustav seated himself close to Rev. Stratton and asked

"Has the town made any precaution in case this monster shows up again? Constable Tumwell was confident that he had already taken care of the situation. But listening to your story, I do not think you are quite convinced."

"Pardon me, My name is Gustav Schmidt. I am a Detective for the New York Police Department. We have been experiencing these events in the other side of the Atlantic as well. hence here I am"



Keeper I would like to know if he made any gestures when i dropped the name of the constable or the admission that this is also happening in the US
This message was last edited by the player at 01:20, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 19):

Johan pauses in thought for a moment, as a slight smirk comes across his face. "Reverend, please tell me that, they are not still publishing this primer.... <shifting into greek> Αυτό είναι ένα τρομερό εργαλείο για την εκμάθηση της ελληνικής γλώσσας. At University long ago we learned of certain texts to avoid due to misrepresentations of context, I fear this is one of them.  I know it's not our business at hand, but if you need assistance, I would happy to translate. Δεν υπάρχει κανένα πρόβλημα, θα ήταν τιμή μου"

Rachel listened intently, glancing around the office. The story reminded her of The Hound of the Baskerville's.

"Could you perhaps show us where you saw this creature?" Rachel began to ask, but then she blinked in surprise as Johan displays quite the knowledge for the Greek language and digressed.

“το μικρό άλογο διαβάζει την εφημερίδα του ελέφαντα” replies the vicar with an atrocious Greek accent. “I didn’t realize you could speak Greek. Very impressive. It’s really just a hobby of mine. My predecessor, the former vicar, kept his journal in Greek and I’ve been trying to decipher a few passages about the Vane family. You know, local folklore and superstitions.”

He leans back in his chair and studies you all for a long while. “You seem like good people. If I were to tell you some of my thoughts on the past events, could I trust you to keep things discreet?”
This message was lightly edited by the player at 18:02, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

In reply to Reverend Stratton (msg # 23):

"Αυτό είναι λίγο άλογο ...  Language is my stock and trade, and anyone who takes the time to study an unfamiliar language has my respect Reverend. I would be happy to assist you with the translation and speed your way to the knowledge within.  My colleagues and I are very the very picture of διακριτικότητα."

In reply to Reverend Stratton (msg # 23):

Dermot has fallen into a jovial mood by now. He looks over toward Jonathan.

"Aye, as long as our ambitious lad here keeps you out of the papers, we're all silent as tombs. I'll hop on him if he so much as looks at a pencil with a twinkle in his eye. Please, do tell."

The vicar glances at Jonathan with a skeptical look but then nods. “I am a man of the cloth, but I also know that there is more between heaven and earth than we can tell. I have found that some legends have more than a grain of truth to them.”

He explains that after the murder of the two victims, he began to translate an old journal written by a long-dead vicar of the village. Some of the journal was in English but a portion was in classical Greek. That portion dealt with a ‘Vane family curse’, and Vicar Stratton has been translating it ever since. He is not competent in Greek, but has uncovered enough to understand that “something” untoward happens to Vane women around their 21st birthdays.

The vicar pushes the journal over to Johan and indicates a page. "This is the chapter I'm trying to decipher."

Johan takes a look and easily summarizes the words. Local legend speaks of a large, hound-like creature, said to walk the land around Edale. The legend recalls the beast was once the working dog of the last squire of the village, which howled for three days and nights at the passing of its master. Edale folk say that if the howling should ever start again, it means someone will die.

One passage relates to the trial of the Witches of Bakewell in Lester Illingworth’s Derbyshire Haunts and Tales (1884). The short piece mentions a Lady Evangeline Vane who, in 1608, was a prosecution witness at the trial of Annie Stafford and Jenny Greene. The two women were found guilty and hung for witchcraft. The book alleges that Annie Stafford called out a curse during Lady Vane’s testimony, putting the “Mark of the Beast” on the Vane bloodline.

In reply to Reverend Stratton (msg # 26):

"If the lass managed to put a curse on Vane's Oul Wan, she musta been guilty after all! I've heard some lads refer to their mots in canine terms, though I doubt they were slashed apart in the fog afterwards. Do he think there's any truth in the matter?" 
This message was last edited by the player at 21:14, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

"I must confess I do not know," frowns the vicar. "But I saw those bodies and that was no 'large dog' what did that. They were practically gutted." He looks at Rachel apologetically. "Pardon my language, Miss."

"I am a good friend of Lord Vane," he continues. "And I would hate for the Vane family name to be slandered or for its secrets to become public knowledge and fuel for local gossip. There does not seem to be any details about the curse in the journal, but perhaps you might be able to discover more, being such scholars. Did you visit Plum Castle yet?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:48, Sat 29 Sept 2018.

"We haven't. It's a good thing we visited you first then. Do you think you accompany us, since the Vanes trust you? We'd like to know more about this 'curse' on the Vanes." Gesturing at Johan, Rachel adds, "Perhaps  my learned colleagues know something that may be of help to them."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:02, Sun 30 Sept 2018.

"It is not really my place to impose on Lord Vane," says the vicar hesitantly. But Rachel soon manages to wear down his defences, and he agrees to accompany you to Plum Castle.

"Interesting fact about the castle, by the way," he adds, and goes on to explain how Plum Castle’s name is falsely said to have derived from when it fell into the hands of Edward III “liketh a plum” when a rebellious former owner neglected to close the castle gate. In fact, the name comes from the Norman French “le plomb” meaning lead; thus, Lead Castle. The area was an important source of lead for more than five centuries, hence the castle’s name.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:21, Sun 30 Sept 2018.

You bid goodbye to Stratton for now and leave the church, heading back to the Laughing Horse to meet with Constable Tumwell. The inn is fairly empty, but Tumwell is sitting at the bar, chatting with a few locals.

"Ah, you're back," he says when he spots you. "Oi've spoken with his Lordship and he has invited you to dinner this evening, at 7 PM. Nothing fancy, he said. Just a five-course meal."

"Ah thank you. Bar keep, take care of the good officer." Rachel says, waving to the bar keep and leaving a few pounds to cover the man's bill.

"Well. Dinner at the Plum Castle then." Rachel sighed, turning to the others. When she was sure the officer wasn't listening to them, she continued in a low voice. "I'll see you when we leave for the Vane's-- I'll just make copies and notes of everything we have. Johan, Bromley, Art? Any of you have any idea about ending curses?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:26, Sun 30 Sept 2018.

In reply to Rachel Katz (msg # 32):

Art shrugs. "A bullet?"

In reply to Dr. Arthur Digby (Art) (msg # 33):

"Brilliant, let's put a gun to everything." Rachel retorts flatly, rolling her eyes. Looking back at Tumwell, Rachel decides to approach the officer before heading up to start on her letter to Ramsey.

"Officer Tumwell, do you know the vicar well?"

"Aye, Miss." replies the constable. "For some 20 odd years now, since I was posted here from Bakewell. He's a good egg."

Those who decide to visit Mam Tor are in for a bracing walk in the beautiful countryside. Mam Tor (or Mother Hill), is considered to be one of the earliest hillforts in Britain. Standing at 1,700 feet (518 m) above sea level, a large ditch surrounds its summit, on which would have stood the fort. The remains of gateways can be discerned on two paths leading to Mam Nick and Hollins Cross respectively. Also visible are the foundations of the circular huts that once would have comprised living quarters and other buildings of a village.

For those making the trek up the hill, Mam Tor’s pinnacle provides breathtaking views of Derbyshire. At its peak are two Bronze Age burial mounds that are believed to be Mam Tor’s oldest features, some 3,500 years old. Limited excavation of the mounds has taken place over the centuries, with records describing a partial excavation in the early 19th century.

At the appointed hour, you stop by the church to pick up the vicar and then head to your dinner appointment.

Plum Castle stands on a stone bluff, some 200 feet (61 m) above Lesser Edale. A winding road leads directly from the village to the castle’s entrance, while a second, longer road leads from Edale and passes near to the castle; it’s just a short walk to the tumbled walls and towers of the ancient fortress.

You are greeted by the butler, Giles, and taken to the Great Hall. Inside, you can gaze at the wood paneled walls, tapestries, chandeliers, and ornaments while you wait to be joined by Lord Arthur Vane. Before he leaves you, Giles asks how you would like your steak prepared for the dinner.

After a few minutes, the door to the right opens and Lord Vane comes out to greet you. He is in his late 60’s, with a bald pate, heavy walrus mustache and formally attired in dinner wear. With him is a young man in his early 20’s, blond, with angular features and the Vane chin, and a pretty young woman with blonde hair and blue eyes, slim and tall.

“Welcome to Plum Castle,” announces Lord Vane, rather grandly.






This message was last edited by the player at 00:44, Mon 01 Oct 2018.

Reverend Stratton introduces you one by one; "Mr. Aveline-Edgeware, Dr. Digby, Professor Braun, Mr. Murphy, Mr. Schmidt, Mr. Graham and Ms. Katz."

“Aveline-Edgeware, eh?” barks Lord Vance, ignoring the rest of you completely. “I say, any relation to ol’ Barty? Decent fellow, my aide-de-camp during all that nonsense a while ago. And these are your friends? Schmidt – that’s a Jerry name, isn’t it? Hmmm. Still, it’s good to have some visitors. Giles! Is everything ready?”

Giles leads you into the luxurious dining room and shows you to your appointed seats. Lord Vance introduces his two children, Lawrence and Eloise. Lawrence is polite but seems stressed, and Eloise shyly concentrates on her food, hardly speaking.

Dinner consists of an hors d’oeuvres (appetizer of pate), fish (trout), main course (steak), dessert (plum pudding), and a selection of local cheeses, followed by cigars. The steaks are delicious, and all of the Vanes eat their meat very rare.

In reply to Lord Vane (msg # 38):

As if possessed by a overtly polite demon, Bromley's appears unrecognisable when in the presence of Lord Vane - He immediately falls directly into all the social graces he grew up mocking in secret with his sister.

"Lord Arthur, a pleasure I'm sure." - He greets Lord Arthur's children with equal polite candour (being roughly his own age, these people will be his peers one day). He acknowledges the relationship in syrupy demure manner, thankful that the relationship didn't fall down the other side of the watershed.

In reply to Lord Vane (msg # 38):

As Dermot works on the third course of exquisite taste, he ponders Bromley's strange new attitude. "Must be the company," he thinks. "Maybe I'll ask the auld butler after dinner where they get their silverware."

His attention shifts from the delicious beef he's chewing as he takes stock of the silverware. He squints... at what surely ought to be SILVERware! How pretentious! They don't even look like pewter, let alone fine silver. Some big front, slope back host. He leans over innocuously toward Gustav and whispers:

"Mighty fine steak we're havin, but have seen the utensils? I doubt there's an ounce of silver inside. It's incredible where rich old layabouts may opt to go cheap."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:25, Tue 02 Oct 2018.

It was a sit down dinner without drinks prior. Rachel looked at the array of silverware in front of her and was suddenly grateful for the inane ramblings of old friends back in New York who were often too drunk to realize that she hadn't gotten her fine dining spoons and forks down pat.

"Thank you for having us over for dinner--it was certainly a pleasure we did not expect. A welcome such as this is far from the usual greeting we get, considering that we're chasing after death cults and the like." Rachel casually threw out as she, after seeing the rare steaks served with the speculations they had earlier on, happily dug into her salad.

In reply to Lord Vane (msg # 38):

"Danke für deine Gastfreundschaft, Lord Vane.  And yes, I hail from Bavaria."  Johan pauses as memories of the trenches and people lost temporary transport him elsewhere.

Focusing on Lord Vane..."Hopefully both our nations have learned from the non-sense and the horrors that it brings to our world."

In reply to Lord Vane (msg # 38):

Gustav immensely enjoyed the steak and made a casual remark about how steaks are properly eaten very rare. He also compliments the host for their tremendous hospitality and explains that Gustav is a second generation immigrant from Germany and volunteered to fight for the United States Army during the war.

Gustav proceeded to talk about the war and was glad to have something related to talk about against the imposing wealth and fine environment around him.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:44, Tue 02 Oct 2018.

In reply to Dermot Murphy (msg # 40):

Gustav leans over Mr. Murphy and replies, "fake silver? are you sure?"

"I'll take your word for it, but why skimp on utensils tho?"



*Gustav remembers the talk about werewolves and silver*

Today: Gustav Schmidt rolled 17 using 1d100. Appraise (07%/3%/1%): is it silver?

Dermot catches Bromley glaring in the direction of the whispering, almost as if he thinks they'll pinch the silverware.

"Young Bromley's as much a ponce as I'd thought," he whispers to whomever is at hand. "Can't even tell fake silver when he sees it, as fancy as he likes to think he is right now. All that money and youth, wasted I tell ye..."

Lord Vane nods in approval as Gustav tells of his time in the war. Art chimes in with a few of his own war stories and it’s only when Eloise starts to look a bit pale that Lawrence changes the conversation around to the new Buster Keaton movie. The rest of the dinner proceeds fairly smoothly, with the host graciously overlooking your minor etiquette mishaps.

After dinner, Giles brings in the cigars and brandy for the gentlemen. Ladies normally retreat to another room while the men smoke. Eloise’s chaperone, a sour-faced older woman, guides her into the study, with a pointed look at Rachel.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:34, Tue 02 Oct 2018.

In reply to Eloise Vane (msg # 46):

"Er." Rachel muttered awkwardly, feeling the chaperone stare daggers at her. A little annoyed at the woman, Rachel leaned back in her chair, smiling at Eloise.

"Eloise, may I call you that? You've got to tell me all about growing up in a castle. What's it like here? Your suitors must literally climb a castle to get to you," Rachel laughed, looking around for any exits

In reply to Eloise Vane (msg # 46):

Jonathan politely declines the offerings of cigars and brandy, wanting only to listen in.

Eloise smiles timidly at Rachel and glances at her chaperone, who has planted herself in a nearby chair to keep a close eye on her young charge.

“There is not much to tell, Ms. Katz. I grew up here and have been tutored in arts and music. One day, I hope to travel and see more of the world. Are you really from the Americas? Oh, it must be frightfully interesting! Perhaps Papa might let me visit there soon.”

She speaks of the beautiful countryside around the area and the history of the castle, and how she loves to stroll through the flower gardens on fair afternoons. She seems to be a sweet girl, soft-spoken and thoughtful, but terribly distracted. Occasionally she trails off and appears lost in thought.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:35, Tue 02 Oct 2018.

In reply to Eloise Vane (msg # 49):

"If you do, you must stay with me-- I'll show you around!" Rachel offered, smiling at the girl.

"Oh, it is quite interesting-- you won't believe have the stories I could tell you. Does your father let you out much? Perhaps London, sometimes?"

In reply to Eloise Vane (msg # 46):

Gustav eagerly takes the cigar and finds a comfortaboe chair to sit on

"Lord Vane, I would again like to express my sincerest gratitude for opening your lovely mansion to us and for the hospitality."

Gustav takes a swig at his brandy and tries to enjoy every taste of it. When everyone is visibly comfortable on their chairs, Gustav looks into Mr. Murphy then to Lord Vane.

"Lord Vane, I've heard from the constable around here that there have been incidents that had happened in these parts. You see, I am a police detective in New York and these kinds of mysteries facinates me."

"Something about giant dogs attacking villegers and such."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:18, Tue 02 Oct 2018.

In reply to Rachel Katz (msg # 50):

Eloise smiles wistfully. "I have been to London a few times. Oh, it's so grand and beautiful! But Papa thinks that I would be safer here at Plum Castle. Especially since..."

She trails off, looking worried and almost ready to burst into tears. Her chaperone rushes to her side and positions herself between Rachel and Eloise. "There there, Miss Vane," she coos. "I think that's enough chit-chat for now. Let's get you to your room."

In reply to Gustav Schmidt (msg # 51):

Lord Vane's face darkens at this question. He turns to the vicar. "Jeremy! What is the meaning of this? Why have you brought a policeman here?" He stands abruptly and scowls at you all. "This dinner is over. You may leave now!"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:25, Mon 08 Oct 2018.

After Lord Vane storms out, Lawrence shakes his head sadly. "Apologies for my father's temper. I would like a word with you before you leave".

In reply to Eloise Vane (msg # 52):

"Ah, are you alright, dear?" Rachel asks reaching out to pat Eloise's arm but her chaperone suddenly imposes herself between them.

"Oh, she's not a five year old, stop smothering her," Rachel muttered lightly as she glanced at Eloise in concern. Standing up, Rachel side steps the chaperone and hands Eloise her card.

"Whatever it is, Miss Vane, should you be in need of any help, you may contact me." Rachel says.

In reply to Rachel Katz (msg # 55):

Eloise takes the card despite the glare of the chaperone. "Thank you, Rachel," she smiles weakly. "And please give my regards to Mr. Graham and your friends."

The chaperone guides the young woman out of the room. Shortly after, the door to the dining room opens and Lord Vane stomps angrily through the room to the Great Hall, barely glancing at Rachel.

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 54):

"And I apologise if your family think us deceitful - It was not our attention at all  - Of course, please speak freely"

Lawrence nods nervously at Bromley and pours himself a large brandy. “It sounds so insane when I say it out loud, but I do believe my dear sister is cursed!”

He gulps down the brandy and lights a cigar. “Three months ago, Eloise turned 21. She went missing on the night of the full moon, and we found her back in her room, naked, torn and bloody. We assumed she had been sleep-walking and gotten lost on the moors. But the next day, she went missing again, and we heard of the terrible murders in the village!”

He goes on to explain that the Vanes haven’t had a daughter for many generations, but have vaguely known of the family curse, dismissing it as an old family legend. He went looking through the family archives and found ancient records claiming that his forebears once practiced devil worship and were dedicated to a blasphemous idol, named as “Mordee-ganee.” The accounts say that the family called upon the idol to satiate their foul desires, and suggests that charnel rites and cannibalism took place. He could find no other evidence to corroborate the outlandish claims, but states that such blasphemy could be at the root of the diabolical curse plaguing the Vane bloodline. Apparently, the Vanes had simply locked up the women during the full moon, or in some cases, they had slain any female babies outright to avoid the curse.

Since that first event, Lawrence and Lord Vane would sedate Eloise, and after she fell asleep, they would carry her down to the castle dungeons and lock her up during the full moon. Once locked in, Lord Vane and his son generally sit in the study, smoking cigars and drinking brandy while they wait out the nightly ordeal. As dawn breaks, the men would return to the dungeon and wait, if necessary, for Eloise to return to humanity. They then carry the exhausted Eloise back to her bed, where she awakens later, none the wiser. It is Eloise’s cries and howls from the depths of the dungeon that the villagers sometimes hear. Only Lord Vane and Lawrence know about this, although Lawrence suspects that Reverend Stratton might also have his suspicions.

At this remark, the vicar nods sadly. “Indeed, my Lord,” he replies. “When these good people arrived at my church, I took it as a sign from above, and brought them here to help.”

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 58):

Crossing himself, Dermot wonders aloud. "Devil's business, the lot of it. I need a rest."

For the first time in a long time, Dermot Murphy stops to consider all that's happened since the group banded together for that fateful Lima expedition. He wears a somber and even sullen expression as the magnitude of strange occurrences mount up in his mind. He takes the brandy after the younger Vane and helps himself. Quaffing half of his new double serving, he poses the obvious question to the party.

"I don't suppose we've found any scraps of legend on how to reverse this condition? Reverend, have ye found any other lore? Young Lord Vane?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:42, Mon 08 Oct 2018.

"None," replies Lawrence. "I have scoured the castle library but to no avail. My father would be horrified and disgraced if this came out. He could even lose his peerage."

His shoulders slump and he pours another brandy. "I don't know what to do. Last month, Eloise took much longer to return to her true form. I fear that the curse will soon transform her into a beast permanently!"

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 60):

Giving Lawrence a sober look Bromley admits that, while it does sound insane, it's not too much of a stretch to what he and his companions have seen.

"If Elias was here, he'd know what to do... Reverend, you are a man of letters and appear to have some familiarity with this - Can you shed any light?"

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 60):

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 60):

Johan pauses and searches his mental knowledge of such manners, but painfully can not think of a solution. "We may not have answers at this moment but if we could search your archives in some manner perhaps we could come to a solution...at least maybe something to slow the tide, if not stop it."

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 60):

Gustav turned a little ashen at the tale of Lawrence, nevertheless was able to recover and met the man eye to eye.

"I... Perfectly understand your predicament Lawrence. We shall do our best to provide assistance on this matter. I know the situation is grave and from the sound of it, the matter will only exacerbate as the days goes by. I do sincerely hope you can explain to your father that we are here, with the upmost of purest intention, only to help. I know how excruciating this is to your whole family, specially to dear Eloise who has to endure it all."

Gustav turns to the Rev. Straton and ask. "Do you have tomes or knowledge on how to reverse these kind of curse? a ritual? an incantation, anything?"

In reply to Gustav Schmidt (msg # 63):

While listening to the discussion, Bromley zones out; He's heard a story like this before - Yes, yes he had! One of the stablehands on the estate used to tell them stories of curses and transformations when he was a boy. The children had laughed it off as superstition but given the horrors he has seen, he isn't willing to dismiss anything.

Replying to Gustav's question to Rev. Straton Bromley bleakly says: "No... No there isn't... There are tales of English families offering their dead to a deity called Mordiggian... These rights involved cannibalism and all manner of other blasphemies. This resulted in a taint in the bloodline - Said to be stronger in females, but not undead of in men... These cursed children were called 'Blood daughters' and by the time they reached adulthood would turn entirely into their ghoulish form."

He continues: "Ghouls appear like humans, but with canine features and claws. Just like Lawrence has said... They're said to be common around catacombs and other places with underground system... *He pauses to shudder at the though of beats roaming under the streets of London*... They're said to have commerce with witches and those seeking unspeakable pleasures, although by the sounds of it, your sister is more likely to attack..."

"Tell me Lawrence, what became of your mother?"

In reply to Rachel Katz (msg # 55):

As Rachel headed out of the other room, she raised an eyebrow, seeing the Lord Vane stomp off in such a fury. Propriety be damned, she slipped through the room he had just exited. As she neared the door, she caught snippets of the conversation.

"What in good god's name happened to him--" Rachel asked, cutting herself short when she spotted Lawrence.

"Curses?" Rachel said instead, raising an eyebrow at the rest skeptically.

In reply to Rachel Katz (msg # 65):

Gustav turned his attention on Ms. Katz and replied, "You better take a seat" then proceeded to retell to her what was discussed about the curse surrounding the Vane Family and thoughts on how to help them remove the curse.

Turning back to Lawrence, Gustav added, "There's a full moon out tomorrow night..."

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 58):

"Of course the women had to be cursed," Rachel muttered, shaking her head, appalled at the story. Annoyed, she turned to Lawrence.

"What about your father? Do you suspect he's locked away any written evidence of this curse?"

"The dungeons?! Good god--and then, once Elaine is locked up," Rachel spat out with emphasis on the final phrase, regarding Lawrence with pure venom, "Have you seen what becomes of her? Or have you been too cowardly to check?"

"Tell me Lawrence, what became of your mother?", asks Bromley.

“She died giving birth to Eloise. She now rests in the family mausoleum,” replies Lawrence.

As Rachel listens to the description of events, she grows increasingly angry. Lawrence blanches under her verbal attack and the vicar crosses himself.

“My father left it to me to find a solution to this, I’m afraid.” says Lawrence. “He is highly concerned what would happen to the Vane family name if it is discovered that the killer can be traced to Plum Castle. I’m not sure how far he would go to protect his honour. And yes, we’ve both seen Eloise turn into the beast with our very own eyes. The stuff of nightmares, so it is!”

“I would normally let you look through our library, of course, but I fear that my father would be angry. Police detectives and reporters in our house… “, he shakes his head.

With a low voice he leans forward to you. “I fear what he will do if Eloise continues like this. One morning he said how much easier it would be to just get his shotgun and put her out of her misery!”

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 68):

"Lawrence, is yer Ol Fella prone to drink heavily? Perhaps if ye helped him get ossified and retire early, we could have a glance with none the wiser. Just an idea. I'd hate to see the end of such a fine young lass as yer sister."

In reply to Dermot Murphy (msg # 69):

"My father does enjoy a snifter or two of brandy," replies Lawrence. "But I suspect he is in his room upstairs at the moment. Come to think of it, there shouldn't be any hindrance to you having a look in the library. It is just across the Great Hall from here. I will come with you. I want to help my sister, no matter what my father thinks of our precious 'reputation!"

He leads you out of the dining hall to the Library. High-backed leather chairs and occasional tables litter the floor space, while large potted plants compete for light. The library boasts a fine collection of classics, world maps (mainly featuring British territories), and encyclopedias.

[You can try a Library Use skill here]


This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Thu 11 Oct 2018.

Dermot finds an old tome called The Ghoul's Manuscript, where he discovers the following information:

. . . A colossal shadow appeared that was not wrought by anything in the room. It filled the portals from side to side, it towered above the lintel – and then, swiftly, it became more than a shadow: it was a bulk of darkness, black and opaque, that somehow blinded the eyes with a strange dazzlement. It seemed to suck the flame from the red urns and fill the chamber with a chill of utter death and voidness. Its form was that of a worm-shapen column, huge as a dragon, its further coils still issuing from the gloom of the corridor; but it changed from moment to moment, swirling and spinning as if alive with the vortical energies of dark aeons. Briefly it took the semblance of some demoniac giant with eyeless head and limbless body; and then, leaping and spreading like smoky fire, it swept into the chamber.

Mordiggian is the Great Ghoul. When he appears, all fire and heat is sucked into his swirling void-like body, instantly lowering the temperature by many degrees, and filling the area with a deathly cold and still air. All within the presence of the Great Ghoul are blinded by the weird changing and dazzling form of the necromantic god. Mordiggian attacks by engulfing victims, sucking away their life force, and dissolving their bodies. Nothing remains of the Charnel God's prey, and they are never seen again in the waking world or in the Dreamlands. However, Mordiggian does not appear to be especially malevolent and has been known to spare those who have not personally offended him or his followers (the ghouls); when a trio of Necromancers sneaked into the temple, the wizards were torn apart by the Ghoul priests, while Phariom and his newly revived wife were spared at Mordiggian's bidding. As one of the Necromancers said "Mordiggian's Wrath, though rarely loosed, is more terrible than any other deity. And it should not be thought by wise men to break into his sacred house." So while Mordiggian is attributed with immense powers of destruction, he is apparently a calm and benign deity.

Mordiggian's Priesthood consists exclusively of ghouls, though other races may offer up their dead to the Charnel God, but only as appeasement and not as actual worship, though some citizens of Zul-Bha-Sair, believed fully in him. The ghoul priests of Mordiggian cover themselves in long hooded robes of funeral-purple and silver skull-like masks. Although Mordiggian dwells within the Dreamlands, he is capable of entering the waking world, using the same grave-tunnels and tombs as his ghoul followers. It is likely that Mordiggian has some relationship with the waking lands. Proof of this is demonstrated by his worship in the city of Zul-Bha-Sair on the continent of Zothique in the distant future. There he is the only god since "from years that are lost to man's memory", and all who die in the city are offered to him as provender.

A different name for Mordiggian is Morddoth, mentioned as the dark god of the ghouls revered in the Valley of Hadoth by the Nile, in the ancient land of Altuas and in a time-lost continent likely matching with Zothique. So does the appearance fit with Mordiggian's one.

In reply to GM (msg # 71):

Thumbing an old volume Bromley stumbles upon some shocking information... He immediately breaks into a cold sweat and goes pale.

"Father, a word if you wouldn't mind..."

Leading Reverend Stratton away, Bromley shows him what he has found - A small passage that contains the following information: the way to lift a blood curse is by ending the bloodline of the person who put the curse on the victim.

"I've never been much of a godly man, Father, and I fear the things I have seen have shaken what little faith I ever had... Still, what do you make of this? We may be an odd bunch, but I don't believe us capable of murder  - Even for the great good"

Reverend Stratton reads the passage and frowns. "Shocking, I must say! I do know that the Stafford family lived around these parts for many years. If there are still living descendants of Annie Stafford, the church books would probably tell us. But such an evil act would surely doom the killer to eternal hell!"

In reply to Reverend Stratton (msg # 73):

Gravely looking back at his companions and remembering what they have seen in Peru and New York, Bromley utters "Given what we've been though, some may say we're already there..."

"While murder, even to end a curse, is out of the question, maybe there is something to investigate with this Stafford line? Either way, I cannot in good conscience keep this information, however grim, from my friends"

Bromley then goes back into the room, places the book on the table and points out the relevant passage.

In reply to Bromley Aveline-Edgeware (msg # 74):

"Gordon Bennett!" exclaims Art. "So there could still be a witch living somewhere around here? I say we track her down!"

In reply to Reverend Stratton (msg # 73):

Gustav interjects. "Well, it doesn't hurt us one bit to make a courtesy call to the descendants of the Stafford Family, at least we get the history right and check if they are familiar with what happened between their family and Vane's generations ago."

You bid farewell to Lawrence Vane and head back to Lesser Edale and your lodgings.

The next morning, after a hearty English breakfast, you meet up with the vicar. He informs you that, yes, there is apparently one direct descendant of Annie Stafford still alive.

Edith Stafford lives with her husband, Will, at remote farm some four miles away. According to the vicar’s house-keeper, Edith has a reputation for being something of a wise-woman, who can help out in matters of the heart, reading palms, and such. She is also the one young women seek out in cases of unwanted pregnancies.

After the breakfast, you drive to the Stafford farm, to the northwest of Lesser-Edale. The four miles on the map the vicar gave you turns out to be almost double that due to the increasingly worsening roads, leading further and further away from civilization.

In the middle of nowhere, you find the farm. Out here, the road is just a dirt track better suited for a tractor or animals. The place screeches of neglect with boarded-over broken windows, old discarded farm tools scattered over the yard, and strange wind chimes hanging from dry trees and from the house. At first glance, the place looks deserted, but then you see a thin veil of smoke emerging from the chimney.

The door is answered by a slob of a man that looks to be in his fifties. “Go away. We dunnit wanna buy anytinn!”

In reply to GM (msg # 78):

Gustav replied to the man at the doorway.

"Good morning kind sir, I assure you that we are not here to sell anything. We came at the advice of the Reverend Stratton to follow up on something. May we enter your lovely farm?"

In reply to Gustav Schmidt (msg # 79):

Dermot butts in. "Oi've got a fine trading enterprise of my own on the high seas, so I hairdly need to come rapping on a country door for sales. As my friend said, we're seeking information."

 “No! Go away!” The man slams the door shut in your face. You can hear raised voices inside, and a moment later the door is opened again, this time by an older woman.

“-Yu have tu excuse our Will, he’s a bit sespiscious uf strangers. What ken I do fer yu?”


This message was last updated by the player at 22:25, Sun 21 Oct 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 81):

"Guten Morgen Madem, would you by any chance be the Lady Stafford..Edith Stafford? My colleagues and I have come on a matter of some importance, and if possible would like to sit and speak with you... over a cup of tea perhaps?"

You are invited to sit down on dirty chairs at a dirty table and are served disgusting tea in rusty tin cups.

Edith is clearly the one in command here, and while she is talking to you, her husband Will takes care of the dishes, or whatever he’s up to since the pile of unwashed dishes doesn’t seem to diminish in any notable manner.

Edith asks to know your business and after you explain, she corroborates that she is indeed a blood relative of the famous Witch of Edale, Annie Stafford. In the same breath, she also dismisses those rumors as nothing more than superstitious talk.

When asked about her work as a wise woman, she admits that she sometimes dabbles in such things, but also says that she has no real powers and that she considers such things are pure nonsense.
This message was last updated by the player at 20:14, Sun 21 Oct 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 83):

Dermot gingerly sips from his tea cup, careful to skim from the top to avoid the dregs. In an earnest tone belying his growing suspicion and alarm, he petitions the lady:

"As you say, I'm sure there's nothing in all this witchcraft and palm reading. On the other hand, an auld sailor like me can ill afford to pass up any blessing or insight for future voyages. We're superstitious folk, to be sure, but we've seen things. Can ye tell me any word, be it knowledge or warning?"

"Cross my palm with silver!" demands Edith. After payment, she takes Dermot's hand and stares blankly into space.

"I see many travels for you. A great mountain. A new birth. The eagle of the defender will destroy the harbinger of evil. The star of lies foretells serenity. The people of the palace will restore the empire. A time of war will begin!"
This message was last updated by the player at 20:14, Sun 21 Oct 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 85):

He's pretty sure she's making it all up as she goes, but he nods gravely as if to accept a weighty gift. He tucks away the reading anyway in the extremely unlikely event it becomes useful.

In reply to GM (msg # 81):


Gustav is bemused at the sight of Mr. Murphy getting his fortunes told and smirked with the realisation that she is just playing around him. After the reading has finished, Gustav interjects.

"I would be interested in that too"

Gustav takes a seat beside Ms. Edith and casually engaged in small talk a few moments later.

"So... Ms. Edith, We are here on behalf of the Reverend Stratton concerning the gruesome murders Lesser Edale has been experiencing. It has come to our attention that outlying farms have been victimised by this anomaly.

We have been to Plum Castle and was able to access its libraries... and your family's bloodline keeps showing up. Do you have any idea why is this so?

Edith takes a coin from Gustav and proceeds with more nonsense; “In the village of the mountain, a terrible traitor will burn. The planet of the sun foretells famine. The dog planet foretells war.”

But then her voice suddenly changes and grows deeper, takes on an American accent…  “I say, did you try the whiskey sours? And have anyone see my pipe? Can’t see to find anything around here – so dark…”

Her eyes open and she shakes her head. “Goodness, I felt strange fer a second there! Will! Get me a glass o’ wine.”

She listens to Gustav’s questions and shrugs. “Oi’ve heard one of my ancester’s put a curse on that family, sure. But we’ve not done no killings here, sure. Will can hardly walk and as you kin see, I’m just an ol’ woman.”

Art leans over to Dermot and whispers. “Was that Jackson? My god, sounded like him! Uncanny!"

He shakes his head and continues quietly. "Apart from that, I do believe this is a dead end. I mean, are we supposed to kill her to see if Bromley’s hunch is correct? Poor Eloise seems to have some sort of inherited disease, not a bloody curse!”
This message was last updated by the player at 20:13, Sun 21 Oct 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 88):

Gustav take everything what Ms. Edith say with a grain of salt. Even the part wherein she talks like Mr. Elias a little while.

"Anything interesting you folk do here in your spare time? Fish trapping? Tipping cows?"

"How long have you people lived here?"

In reply to GM (msg # 88):

"Good lady, perhaps you could use your insight to tell me about the The Black Power..."
Johan provide some coinage as well.

Edith eagerly collects your coins and yells for Will to serve more tea for the ‘fine gentlemen and the pretty lady”.

As Will shuffles around the table, refilling your chipped mugs, Edith regales you with tales of sorcery and witchcraft, ghosts and goblins, and things that go bump in the night. She has lived in this valley all her life, but did visit Derby once. ‘Noisy and smelly. Didn’t care for it at all!’

“Oi’ve heard of the Beast of Lesser Edale, of course! They say it prowls the moors every full moon and eats babies! It’s the size of four dogs, and has retractable legs so it can leap up at you better, and it glows in the dark!”

You offer Edith more coins and the promise of richer clients if she accompanies you back in your car. She accepts willingly and rushes around, trying to find something decent to wear, which seems to take forever. Leaving the house key to the shaky hands of her husband, she squeezes into the backseat of the car, reminding you all that showers and baths in this area perhaps occur less frequently that you might desire. She chatters endlessly and seems excited about the trip.

Bromley navigates the old car through the light snow that has started to descend, and loses sight of the road a few times. As you turn a slippery corner, there is a loud bang from the engine, and the car shudders to a stop. It is mid-afternoon and the sun will set before 5 PM.


This message was last edited by the GM at 20:56, Mon 22 Oct 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 92):

Dermot steps out of the car, grumbling. He's still mentally worn out. He walks over to the hood and stares at it, hands on his hips. After a moment, he raises his hand and swiftly brings his fist down twice in rapid succession. The engine roars back to life, and he returns to his seat.

"Off we go, then."

You continue the drive towards Plum Castle and arrive around 4 PM. It is already a lot darker and there are lights in some of the castle windows.

As you pull into the courtyard, Lawrence Vane comes out to meet you. "You're back! What did you learn? We've already put Eloise down in the dungeon. And who is that!?"

The last with a shocked glance at Edith, who is gawking at the old stone castle and scratching her straggly hair.

In reply to Lawrence Vane (msg # 94):

Gustav introduces Edith to Lawrence and proceeded to explain to him the group's intent on witnessing the transformation of Eloise.

"We would want to confirm Eloise affliction. By the way, this is Edith Strafford, the descendant of the supposed family that cursed your family."

"Is there a secured location in the castle to house Ms. Edith while we witness the transformation?"

“Secured?” replies Lawrence with a puzzled frown. “I mean, I could have Giles mind her in the servant’s quarters if necessary. Not very comfortable with letting her roam around my home, to be honest.”

He arranges for Giles to lead Edith Stafford away and keep an eye on her. Once that is arranged, he invites you inside. “Father is in his room and has started drinking already. I fear this is taking a toll on his health.”

The young Vane heir leads you through the Great Hall to the Servant’s Hall and to a staircase in the back kitchen. This leads down to the cellar, where another door takes you to the wine cellar (stocked with dusty old bottles of exquisite claret) and into a storage room, where a stout door leads down to the dungeon. The door is kept locked, although the key rests on a hook that hangs nearby. A long flight of steps leads into a cold and dark stone chamber, in which a few ancient chains hang from the walls. An unlocked iron door leads into a series of nine cells, each fitted with iron doors of their own.

“I only have the key to the last cell, so that’s where we keep her,” explains Lawrence as he takes the lead. As he comes to the last cell on the left, he looks in and stops dead in his tracks. He looks back at you with a confused expression. “She’s not there!”

With shaky hands, Lawrence hurriedly unlocks the cell door. The small cell has been made as comfortable as possible for Eloise, but it’s still a dismal place. Gustav uses his skills as a trained detective and soon discovers a loose stone in the east wall, which when pushed, operates a hidden mechanism that opens a secret door. On the other side is a long and narrow stone tunnel, leading into darkness.
This message was last updated by the GM at 21:33, Tue 23 Oct 2018.

"Uhm, yes... lanterns," replies a clearly flustered Lawrence. "I have no idea where things are kept. Wait here, I will go fetch Giles."

He strides quickly up the dungeon corridor and through the door, leaving you alone. You think you can hear faint scrabbling noises and a low growl coming from the dark tunnel.

Lawrence returns after a short while with some lanterns. “Giles is keeping an eye on your guest upstairs. It is better if the servants do not know about this. Please be careful – this is still my sister!”

You enter the long, narrow tunnel and follow it to a small, naturally-formed cave. An ancient and rusty metal ladder leads to an opening in the roof. “This must lead up to the mausoleum,” whispers Lawrence. There is a deep growl from above.

Gustav leads the climb up the ladder. He manages to enter the dark and icy crypt with a minimum of noise and notices the shadowy figure scratching at the stout wooden door that presumably leads outside. Dermot unfortunately makes a bit more racket as he ascends, and the figure turns around. It has a roughly bipedal stance, with forward slumping and vaguely canine features. The texture of its skin is a kind of unpleasant rubberiness. It is wearing Eloise’s flowery headband.

As it hears Dermot, it gibbers and runs towards Gustav in a blur of movement. Gustav stands his ground, intending to grapple the monster, but it quickly overpowers him and nearly tears him to shreds. He slumps to the ground, bleeding heavily, but still conscious.

"What is going on?" shouts Lawrence in alarm as he hears the sounds above.

Dermot fires three times at the Eloise-thing but misses. It turns to him and swipes at his throat, but he manages to duck below the blow. Rachel climbs up on the ladder and tries to stab the monster with her syringe, but hits the stone floor instead, shattering the needle.


This message was last edited by the GM at 20:13, Wed 24 Oct 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 101):

Gustav bleeds profusely after a frenzied attack from the beast. Seeing Rachel tries to stab it with no avail, Gustav realised the danger he has put Rachel into, as well as Mr. Murphy. He gathers his remaining wits to keep the pain at bay and clumsily shoots at the creature.

Gustav was able to whisper 'run' before everything goes black.

Gustav manages to fire as he lies bleeding on the ground. One round hits.

The Eloise-thing flinches when the bullet strikes it and it howls mournfully before turning away and loping towards the crypt door at full speed. It reaches the door and crashes right through the thick wooden frame and out to the dark grounds outside!

In reply to GM (msg # 103):

"Gustav, man! Hold it together!"

As Eloise crashes through the portal beyond, Dermot runs up with Art to check on Gustav. Bandages are a great first step, but he's nearly slashed to bits.

"Doctor, he needs a hospital! Hey boyos, help the good doctor here get our man to the car! Take one or two along with ye, doctor."

He pauses to survey the frantic subterranean scene. His eyes alight on young Jonathan, still green and yet to prove his mettle. He allows a flicker of a smirk to play across his face, and with twinkling eyes he says:

"You'll do, lad! Come along, we're off to the hunt! Don't hem and haw, it's time we're off now!"

Before any real protest can be made, Dermot grabs young Jonathan by the collar and hauls him off into the cold winter night, hot on the daemoniac trail of the blasphemous monstrosity which was wrought from the innocent young vessel known in better times as Eloise.

In reply to Dermot Murphy (msg # 104):

Jonathan tried to protest, but was overwhelmed and dragged outside. He looks over to Dermot, "What am I even gonna be able to do here?", he asked.

Yet Jonathan still followed the trail. Something like this caught on camera would be nice to have.

Art reaches into his jacket and pulls out his old Webley MK VI service revolver and nonchalantly tosses it to Jonathan*. “You might need this. Watch out, she’s got a bit of a kick on her.”

He kneels beside Gustav and tuts. “This again? Best get you stitched up toot sweet. Ms. Katz, will you lend me a hand getting him out of here? There’s a hospital in Stockport, that should be the closest. Bromley or Johan, one of you get the car and park it outside. Hurry!”

Lawrence sticks his head up from the ladder and quickly climbs out, gulping as he sees the damage inflicted on Gustav. “My god! I’m so sorry! Eloise did this? And she escaped? She’s probably headed towards the village again. We must catch her and bring her back before she harms anyone else!”

Outside the crypt, Dermot and Jonathan quickly spot hoofed prints in the fresh snow, leading south. It is just possible to make out a dark loping shape in the gloom ahead, some 100 m distant.

*Webley Revolver; uses Firearms (handgun). Basic skill is 20%. Damage 1D10+2. Range 15 yards. Six rounds, can fire three shots per round
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:54, Fri 26 Oct 2018.

In reply to Dr. Arthur Digby (Art) (msg # 106):

Dermot looks at Art's firearm which is identical to his own, and flashes a grim smile.

"Classic choice, doctor! The Brits can do something right every now and again."

Pulling Jonathan along, he follows the peculiar tracks at a distance, keeping the loping form in sight while making no attempt to close the gap.

"Just keep up, and be ready to shoot if anyone so much as sneezes maliciously."

Dermot and Jonathan follow the loping shape from a safe distance, their boots crunching on the white snow, the full moon illuminating the eerie and desolate landscape.

Suddenly, there is an inhuman howl from a small forest nearby, and the Eloise-thing stops dead in her tracks, listening intently. As Dermot and Jonathan watch from a safe distance, two figures emerge from the forest edge. They are of similar form and shape as the Eloise-thing and seem to be beckoning to her. She hesitates, but then changes course, loping towards the shapes and the dark forest.

Back at Plum Castle, Art and Rachel has carefully maneuvered the severely wounded Gustav onto the rear seat and are getting ready to drive off, when Lord Vane suddenly appears at the castle front door, carrying an old shotgun. He is swaying slightly, and his face darkens when he spots the car.

“Where is she?” he shouts angrily. “I’m going to put a stop to this once and for all!”


This message was last edited by the GM at 21:54, Sat 27 Oct 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 108):

"Lord Vane! Help us!  Our friend needs attention and we are trying to save your daughter!
We must work together man, now pull yourself together!" Johan shouts as moves in front of Lord Van.

In reply to GM (msg # 108):

Seeing the figures as they appear from the shadows, Jonathan stops moving and quietly says the Dermot, "I think we should go back..."

His eyes weren't leaving the sight of the figures; but he slowly starts backing away.

In reply to Jonathan Graham (msg # 110):

"Steady, boy. I'd not like to be slashed bits myself. Mark this spot, we'll return in greater numbers. The townsfolk won't leave such creatures about."

Dermot leads Jonathan away back toward Edale, marching as briskly as the snow will allow.

Johan tries to reason with Lord Vane but the owner of Plum Castle is not ready to listen to reason. His son, Lawrence, also tries to calm his belligerent father but with similar lack of results. Lord Vane shouts at the butler to round up the male servants and arm them. "And release the hounds!", he adds.

“You lot sort this out. I’m taking Gustav to the hospital!” says Art and speeds off in Bromley’s car.

Meanwhile, Dermot and Jonathan carefully skirt around the small grove of trees where Eloise was last seen, and continue on foot to the village of Lesser Edale. It is a cold and dreary Thursday in late January, so most of the villagers are either at home, or at the Laughing Horse.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:47, Mon 29 Oct 2018.

Dermot, no stranger to rabble-rousing, quickly stirs the patrons of the pub into action with his stories of wild beasts. A group of about 15 men assemble near the village center, armed with shotguns and torches. Constable Tumwell tries in vain to stop the gathering but is met with jeers and anger.

“This has been going on too long now, Tumwell. Time to hunt down the killer!” shouts Ned Wallop, one of the locals.

Dermot and Jonathan lead the small group back to the nearby forest, where people form a line and head into the dense foliage of the woods. Ned says that there’s an old cave in there, where a young boy disappeared some 25 years ago. Apparently, the boy was never found but since then people stay away from that area of the woods as it is considered haunted by the ghost of the child.

About 50 meters into the woods, there is a cry of “Over here!” from one of the men. He has spotted what appears to be the entrance to an old lead mine. A sign near the half-rotted wooden door reads; “Entry prohibited. Trespassers will be persecuted to the full extent of the law.”

The sign is marked with the symbol of the City Council of Derby and Derwent Valley.

"Umh, are we supposed't go in there?" asks Ned with a nervous grimace.


This message was last edited by the player at 17:05, Wed 31 Oct 2018.

Back at Plum Castle, another group of armed men have been assembled. One of the gardeners is holding the reins of several large hunting dogs, who are sniffing the air and growling with eagerness.

Lord Vane holds a silken scarf in front of the hounds and they lead the group towards Lesser Edale. In the far distance, there seems to be figures holding torches near a small forest.

Dermot looks at the entrance to the old lead mine. There has been a lot of traffic to and from the mine entrance recently. Muddy prints from hoofed animals can be seen. There's only the sound of dripping water to be heard from inside.

With torches and lanterns lit, the small group enters the mine tunnels. It is freezing cold in here and difficult to breathe. The tunnel roof is held up with rickety scaffolding and smaller side tunnels branch off randomly from the main tunnel. The utter darkness and claustrophobic narrowness quickly take their toll on the villagers, who begin to mutter uneasily about ‘really having to get back to the missus for evening tea’.

Suddenly, there is a scream from the rear of the group. You turn just in time to see the legs of a villager disappearing into a narrow side tunnel, as if he is being dragged. The scream is cut off almost immediately.

In reply to Lord Vane (msg # 114):

Speaking softly to Rachel and Bromley, "We need to keep an eye on Lord Vane, he is man over come by frustration....and maybe some madness, but perhaps we can reach him still.  Regardless, I believe we can do some good by staying by his side."  Johan keeps a close eye and a short distance from Lord Vane searching for his moment to calm the situation.

The villagers start to mill around in panic. One fires his shotgun into a hole in the roof, and Ned Wallop screams in pain as a dark shape suddenly looms up behind him and rakes filthy claws across his back. Torches are dropped, and more dark shapes appear all around. People start to stampede towards the exit, with some of them running the wrong way. There are more screams and then horrible eating sounds…

[Dermot and Jonathan, please roll SAN or lose 1D6 each]


This message was last edited by the GM at 11:59, Fri 02 Nov 2018.

In reply to Johan Braun (msg # 116):

Bromley nods in agreement - If worst comes to worst, he can possibly knock Lord Vane out.

In reply to GM (msg # 115):

As the first man is dragges screaming into the dark, Dermot’s body tenses. He mumbles an agreeing sentiment that he could go for a cuppa just about now. Then, pandemonium as the mob begins a frantic stampede to escape a number of ghoulish forms shrouded in darkness.

"Keep your heads, men! Look alive!"

Reeling from the sudden ghoul ambush, Jonathan is suddenly convinced that his cousin, Emma, is calling to him from one of the side tunnels. How did she get in there? She must know the way out! Despite Dermot’s cry of alarm, the young reporter runs straight into the narrow tunnel. As he approaches the shadowy figure, he realizes that it is not his Emma, but a hideous ghoul. This one seems to have been wounded recently, as there is a bullet wound in its side. Strangely, it does not attack Jonathan, but instead just hisses at him.

In the meantime, the hounds have led the hunting party from Plum Castle straight to the small forest. Screams of terror and shotgun blasts can be heard from a small mine entrance further ahead. A young man crawls out, gibbering about werewolves and demons. He is bleeding from several cuts or slashes to his back and arms.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:41, Fri 02 Nov 2018.

In reply to GM (msg # 120):

As Dermot empties his revolver in the direction of the ghoul blocking his egress, he's startled to hear it utter a curse of pain pain in plain English before skittering away in search of easier prey. His chest twinging in pain, Dermot cries out for Jonathan to head for the exit while it's clear. Not knowing the boy's fate, Dermot's better judgment calls him to run to the mouth of the mine cave, pausing to reload his revolver and to watch and listen for any friend or for leaving the cave.

In reply to Dermot Murphy (msg # 121):

Jonathan heard a familiar voice call out to him through one of the side tunnels. Confused as to why she was here, he turned to where he heard it and started following it. He won't leave his cousin in a place like this.

Outside the mine entrance, Giles the butler (obviously a veteran of the Great War) quickly organizes the men from Plum Castle into small groups and leads the charge into the mine tunnel. The arrival of more combatants seems to discourage the ghouls and they are driven further back into their fetid hideouts, dragging some of the dead villagers with them for later consumption.

Dermot and Jonathan are retrieved from the dank tunnels, bloodied and dazed from the carnage. A ghoul corpse is also recovered, and the men from both the castle and the village study it with horror and revulsion.

“Is this wot attacked our village?” asks one man incredulously. “And there’s more in there?”

He turns respectfully to Lord Vane and doffs his cap. “Sirr, beggin’ yer pardon, but can you protect us from this horror?”

Lord Vane, also shaken from the events, nods. “I will, of course. Giles, find some dynamite! We need to seal off these tunnels!”

As Giles and a few men run off, there is a gasp from one of the villagers. A young woman, naked as the day she was born, stumbles from the tunnel entrance. Lawrence quickly dashes over to her and covers her body with his coat.

As Eloise tries to remain standing, looking at her brother in confusion, Lord Vane hesitantly raises his shotgun towards her, but then lowers it again, tears in his eyes.

He turns to you. “Please help me. I don’t know what to do…”

In reply to GM (msg # 123):

Once Eloise is decent and being lead back to the estate, Bromley calls Lord Vane, Lawrence and his companions over to him for a frank and serious discussion.

"Lord Vane, under normal circumstances I would be hesitant to say what I'm about to say for fear of you thinking me a madman... However, given tonights events I trust you will believe us.

This... curse... upon your family does not look to be an isolated indecent. My companions and I have seen horrors the likes of which are beyond the realm of disbelief. As much as it greatly saddens me to see your family in such a state, I'm afraid we must continue our investigations in London; time is of the essence. It may all be connected, it may not, but I can assure you as a gentleman that any insight into your daughters... condition... that we discover will be yours as much as it is ours.

In the meantime, I suggest you focus on protecting your daughter. I highly recommend that you pay reparations to Edith Stafford; that woman is not the cause of your bane, but she is certainly more than meets the eye. She is as poor as a church mouse so I'm sure a small sum will do. Speaking of churches, the good vicar should also continue his investigation into your family and the potential for a cure."