To those unafraid of seizing the moment of discovery, I myself had to play the game. Peckerton's case was haunting my mind day and night and I, even with a few bribes thanks to Greison's little tactics, have received the information about the murder all those years ago. The rumors were false after all and Mr. Peckerton was slaughtered like a swine. Poor unfortunate soul he was and the spirit that was once him told me that someone did it. The mark left on his throat was accurate to the wound on the spirit. If lucky, I'd find the suspect but, sad to say, I kept being pulled away from it. Being a woman was difficult and the warm summer days began to turn into cool autumn nights. I was a little scared when the time of cooler winds and bountiful harvest were around the corner. I'd be a year older and my days in Allerdale would be longer or even shorter. Romance would begin delving its head into my life as Jackson would continue to pop in from time to time. Yet, I had to do something. Peckerton was hiding something and it was up to me to find out. Gossip wouldn't give the results but my own investigation would help me succeed.
But fear was also around the corner as well. People began gossiping about me and wishing to let me be their first female private detective. Yes, and I was shocked since the cases began piling up about missing young children and adults. Allerdale was hiding secrets from me and I didn't like it. Some husbands or wives came to me, saying I was insane to take the case but my roots of New York and my ambitious temperament would assist me in some parts of the case. I needed to start getting to the bottom of this. Yet, I despised saying this but I was beginning to feel rather ill. I blamed my lack of nutrition since I'd go on days without food. For now, I had to continue the masculine act but also keep the feminine touch. I was my own investigator and no one was going to stop me!
Sep. 28th, 1829
"Nothing!" I threw a few documents to the ground out of frustration. I was at a dead end and began losing my patience. I glanced at my desk and spider web full of small sketches and newspaper clippings all pinned to the wall. I haven't gone to sleep in the last few hours and nothing was the answer so far. I got some sort of leads but nothing seemed to be right. I learned that Peckerton wasn't the only person that was part of the little incident all those years ago.
The first member and founder was Charles Peckerton, age 31, and of the male sex. Described to be well-behaved but also have an aggressive temperament. If wishing to see him, his fair skin, olive green eyes, and somewhat honey hair would be the best traits. He began his business after his father, Edward Peckerton, age 55, retired from the business of making the brews. The surprising part was that it was a family business that began over a century ago from his grandfather, Antony Peckerton. Henceforth, he inherited the wealth and business from them but was frivolous with the money. He spent it on gambling within Madrid but lost a few rounds and valuable money. After the unfortunate loss of money, he began the business after going to Berlin, making some Germanic inspired brews and selling them to the taverns of Southern and Western Allerdale. At age 46, the Greenwich flood took place and didn't pay for the damages. A few weeks later, he was murdered by an unknown suspect of unknown sex and motive. The possible weapon of choice was either a display weapon he owned at the club, knife, or razor blade from the lavatory. The gash was appx. 5 cm deep and 14 cm wide. He never married or owned children and gave the money back to the Allerdale Bank to be distributed to the common and elite folk.
The second and third members were a couple. First of the couple was Armand Wolfensheir, age 22, and of the male sex. If wishing to find him, his short chestnut hair and bright blue eyes along with fair skin would be the way to find him. Unfortunately, to scar the beauty would be a scar on his right eye but not enough to blind the man. The man lost his home at age 7 but was adopted into a relative's estate to learn bounty hunting. At age 15, he met his soon-to-be wife (the name was scratched out) as part of an arranged marriage but lost her to consumption. He met his past wife at the age of 19 after saving her from a criminal syndicate and married in the same year. At the same time, he inherited his wife's wealth.
As for the second part of the couple, Marianne Lexi, age 20, and of the female sex. If one were to see her pass by, her blonde hair and dark umber eyes would be recognizable. At times, if caught, her eyes were able to glow a bizarre violet sheen. One would be surprised that a talented woman like her started at a young age and was passed down from generation to generation. At age 4, she was known as a medium (better known as a fortune teller or palm reader) but was arrested at age 7 for fraud along with her grandmother, Lucricia Lexi. She later escaped after her grandmother died due to torture for the crime of witchcraft--The fraud charge was a cover-up and was from another woman from her town. At age 11, she educated and began a business of selling antidotes and medicine which was rather rare. She was then captured at the age of 16 and worked for a criminal syndicate by force until two years later. She married her husband at the age of 18 and both inherited the wealth of medicine and bounty hunting. Both joined the club a decade later and became quick members with Charles Peckerton but disbanded after the deluge. Both paid for damages and left the club behind. The status of them is now unknown but they say they're still alive and well.
The fourth member was a man known better as Gregory Baker, age 43, of the male sex. When having a conversation with him, his graying hair once a dark black and receding hairline and his eyes a bizarre dark gray hue would be known. He also owned a mustache that curled somewhat past his upper lip. At age 12, he was known well with the law for being part of gang member syndicate robberies on the traveling roads. After being educated in weaponry, he began working in the armory industry after throwing the white flag with the robbers, making guns and other weaponry around the age of 32. He married at the age of 39 to his wife, Elizabeth Adeline, age 21, and had a son but died at the age of 4 due to an unknown disease followed by his wife at the age of 29. He later remarried at the age of 40 but lost both his second wife, Amy Rosetta, age 34, due to an unknown disease. After the deluge, he departed but was murdered at the age of 51. When finding his body, he was cut around the throat with a gash that was ready to cut his head off cleanly like a cleaver in a mad butcher's hands. The gash was over 10 cm wide and appx. 9 cm deep when taken to the nearest medical university for study.
The fifth member was quite the strange fellow known as Trefor Laforeze, age 23, of the male sex. If wishing to see him for tea, his medium chestnut hair and strangely golden eyes would be the best traits. At times, his skin would be an odd shade of fair skin, but seen as bed sheet ashen white. At age 4, he lost both parents to an unknown disease and later took himself to be a servant boy for the Francois family at the age of 10. At age 12, he educated himself amidst taking care of the Francois family members along with other servants. He later began a fur trading business at the age of 19, becoming well known in Berlin and London. During the time being before the deluge, he wished to set roots in New York City but failed after a rival business in the fashion industry took the opportunity. He never married due to what he called 'an unknown curse from his family lineage' Later, at age strangely 29 (but remaining to look at the age of 23) departed from the club after paying financial issues and damages of the Greenwich flood. He passed away due to an unknown disease but rumors say that he walks like any other soul passing through town. Rumors are unknown and haven't been seen. Seen as a possible suspect but rumors died out along with the story. The elders believe that he was cursed and later put to rest.
The sixth and seventh members of the club was another female but accompanied by her son. Starting with the mother was Chantelle Girder, age 29, female sex, along with her son, Luka Girder, age 15, male sex. If wishing to have a little time with them at the salon or out on a shooting range, the mother had light orange blonde hair and her eyes were a light hazel hue amid her son having dark blonde hair with emerald and hazel eyes. A strange combination but it was due to the father being the carrier of some traits. Much is known about her past aside from being known as a merchant's daughter fair and well. At age 20, she married her husband, Isaac Girder, and had Luka at the age of 22. She inherited her husband's wealth at age 28 within parts of the transportation industry after her husband lost his life at sea from a massive storm. Her son, Luka at age 12, was quick to learn to steer the sailboats and would be gone for days from time to time. He inherited his father's traits thanks to the crew and through experience when he was a young child with his father. Both of them after the deluge didn't pay damages and disbanded due to shame. At age 23, Luka lost his mother due to an unknown disease but remained in Allerdale but retired at the age of 31. He married once but lost his wife (name was unknown) due to an unknown disease.
The rest of the members were of lower classes of the elite and they either paid or not paid but all disbanded after the deluge. Yet, some of them had me confused in which an unknown disease was the cause of death. I blamed cholera at first but got off quickly due to lack of evidence. I recalled the spirit of Charles Peckerton having nothing that involved cholera. I thought of smallpox but the disease was slowly being taken care of due to something called vaccines. It's still recent but slowly being made known to the world. There were controversial subjects about them. The spiritual body of Mr. Peckerton deceased quickly but it was through murder, not smallpox. Yet, what about the others? Did they die from smallpox or cholera? Perhaps the plague? It didn't seem right but there was someone that was around. Perhaps Luka could be some service to me if the man was alive and well. Yet, there was also the known apparition of Mr. Laforeze yet it'd take forever to find him. I had no idea where the body was located or the spirit. For now, Luka Girder would have to work. It was getting late and I needed some rest. I'd have to start writing everything starting first thing in the morning. I need a little drink.
Sep. 29th, 1829
"See you soon, Jackson!" I waved Jackson farewell and he was quick to run off with his little hunting party, "Have fun on your trip!" He waved farewell as his members joked around with him about me being in love with him. I closed the window and took a moment to be rather patient like a spider in his or her elegantly crafted web. I smiled and nodded after a few minutes had passed and made my way into my dressing room. I changed from the little gown to something more fitted for a man during the day and age. I chose a faded orange and brown coat with a laced waistcoat that was a bit longer than I expected. It felt nice along with the cotton contoured shirt I wore underneath and cravat made out of cloth as well. My dark brown boots were being cleaned and polished by the Shultz's cobbler so black boots would have to do the trick for now with ivory stockings underneath black pants. I tied my hair back, snatched an extra cloak Jackson had recently washed, and went on my way with my journal in hand with little pieces of charcoal. After all, my inkwell and pen were almost used up just from the last few nights ago. I'd have to get a new one later so my wallet was with me as well. I just had to set myself to Eastern Allerdale or even head off to Greater Allerdale just for the answers I was looking for. For now, I'd check in the library for more information. A good detective must own all information before making a good conclusion.
~~~
"What?" I was confused whilst speaking to one of the market owners. I was hoping Luka would be around but nothing. I was shocked. What I read was misinforming and unfortunate to hear from the owner's mouth. Luka lost his luck and went to Basque Country in search of new fortunes but later became a monk. Yet, he was tormented by something or someone that ended his life years later. He did it to himself by a horrific method in which I shan't tell you to accomplish. It was quick compared to a rope and it horrified the monks that saw his horrid corpse. "Alright, then what about the others aside from--" "Don't you dare bring that up! I didn't want to hear those names ever again ever since what happened that day." The owner shooed me out of their stall and I huffed a little bit. It seemed that the owner, a female around her late fifties to early sixties, knew a few Greenwich citizens as friends. Perhaps I'd make a stop there later to see what happened. I was, after all, letting my curiosity get to me. Grei was feeling rather uneasy inside his little stone cage wrapped by a cord around my neck and it grew hot from time to time. It'd be my first time heading to the town if I went there now but I'd remain safe in Allerdale. I needed more answers.
~~~
Being within Western Allerdale made me uneasy since I had to conceal my background but everyone was staring at me. The socialites began making rude comments about me for not following the dress code and conduct of being a woman. Even some of the girls that were around my age treated me like trash and laughed at me whenever I wished to talk about what happened at the club. I tried men and all they did was either kick me out violently with their harsh temper or see me as a ridiculous joke. I kept trying to get through their thick skulls but they didn't listen to me. All they saw was a woman and nothing else but a mockery for men.
I slid my head and back against the wall of a beauty salon and grew frustrated. Most of the members weren't here because they passed on or didn't want to be known to the others out of jealousy. It's like Greater Allerdale saw the place as a sore eye and wanted it gone for good. Me being involved with it wasn't helping either since Greater Allerdale was to be blamed for what happened to Greenwich. I was running out of options (and money). I bought a horse from a breeder and began setting my course for Greenwich. I couldn't believe I was saying this!
Oct. 4th, 1829
Greenwich looked somewhat like Allerdale and I seemed to enjoy its splendid valor and glory. The town knew how to spring itself back from the deluge all those years ago. The place was full of more elites than commoners compared to Allerdale. I was a little upset since it seemed also more involved with the future than Allerdale. Factories were present here and I was amazed. It looked more like a city than a town. Yet, for now, I had to remain focused. No time for sightseeing, Laura! You're on an investigation! Now fifteen years old and now on your way to getting some answers. I knew bringing up the deluge would get some of the people mad but I wasn't at blame. I grew up in New York along with Mother by my side. I clutched onto the stone and hoped for some good luck.
I began my process with some of the older adults but even they shooed me away. At least they didn't directly do it in front of my face. Yet, one person seemed to be interested in me as I made my ways around town. I didn't recognize this person but seemed intrigued as I was making my way to one of the local restaurants but found myself having one of the cheapest items on their menu. I wouldn't want to tell you since it's a bit much for one to understand. The person was male, having hair that looked rather matted or shaggy with dirty blonde hair. The skin was spotted in certain places from the richest ebonies to the lightest porcelains. The clothes were well made but were falling apart in certain areas. "I don't have time for you." I finished my meal but he was quick to interfere. He smirked and those strange brownish red eyes flickered a little delight, "Oh~ No no, girl. You're interested in something else. You're talking about what happened all those years ago, right?" I narrowed my eyes at the male who was a bit taller than me. I crossed my arms as well, "Oh, really?" I tried curling my lips a little but froze in shock. I heard my stomach acting up and the boy was laughing at me, "Look at you acting all tough in front of me. Never thought you'd be approaching me like this." I began twitching around my eyes amidst my stomach continuing the churn negatively. I didn't smell anything wrong with this boy in front of me but I felt sick. I think it was the food but I wasn't sure. He began to notice something was strange with me, "Are you alright?" I pushed him away from me and began walking towards my horse but collapsed onto the ground. A few of the men and women noticed me getting sick and I vomited. My horse screamed out of shock and bucked onto its hind legs after I accidentally touched its body. I began reaching for the stone around my hand and hoped to cut my hand to let Grei carry me away from this place but I didn't have the strength. The last thing I recall was the boy looming over me like a shadow. I fell asleep after seeing the colors blur and smear like paint. I curse the corset I wore underneath my shirt and undergarments or the food I ate.
Oct. 7th, 1829
"Hmm…" I twitched a few times amid my ears perking to some sort of melody being hummed. I didn't know what was going on but I saw something or someone cooking away. I blinked a few times as the color of a warm fireplace was present under the sight of a large rusted cauldron. The sound of glass clattering around and being used for something was bizarre in many ways but smelled delicious there. For a moment, I saw that boy from earlier and saw an older man or woman looming over it. The elder looked at me and I was quick to retract and a chuckle came, "Oh~ Poor dear! It's alright. There's no need to be afraid." I couldn't see the figure but it was male. The clothes were well made minus a few crudely made stitches being present in the sleeves of the coat. Was it a rustic red or brown? I couldn't tell due to the fireplace and lanterns above my head. "Where am I?" I slowly got out but held onto my stomach in pain, "I don't feel good." The old man clicked his tongue a few times, "You poor girl. It's alright now. Just take this and you'll be fine." I was presented with a little shot glass of some liquid and the elder claimed it to be medicine made from ginger root. I heard of the spice once or twice from books so I was quick to douse the flames of pain within my stomach. "After all, it's a little remedy I've done for years," the elder began snatching something from the kitchen and I assumed it to be a bowl. I was hungry but also feeling ill. Yet, I wasn't given an answer from my previous question so observation was my best shot. I saw the ground covered in smoothed stones along with the walls as rough bricks. The ceiling had hard wooden support and beams but the roof did look rather good on the inside. A cottage outside Greenwich?
"Are you well, little girl?" I screamed out of shock when the man was beside me with a gentle smile. I laughed sheepishly while looking at the bowl and it smelled of warm autumn spices, "Oh! Me? Haha~ I'm fine!" "Mm~ Good, now eat up." I smiled sheepishly as the elder man walked away slowly but I felt Greison inside the stone. "Don't eat it. Let me out of this cage. I want to play." Greison, you're acting odd again. What's wrong with you? I felt the stone get hotter than the soup and I quickly snatched it from my neck. "You have a problem, you know that?" "I don't like this place. Set me free, Laura." I heard him growl and hiss and I was quick to shove him into my pockets, "That's quite enough." "Set me free." "No!" I rubbed my finger against the stone's sharp edge while turning my head away. "Do it. Set me free." Greison was getting annoying. I began trying to eat the meal the old man gave me but it was too hot to eat. I set it aside while Grei continued meowing louder within the stone. I snatched it and grew frustrated, "Will you mind? I've had you for the last few months and now you're becoming bothersome." "Something isn't right. For the last time, set me free, Laura." I shook my head, "No! You're really annoying right now! Just please! Just shut up! Stop walking over my grave!"
I was blind with my rage and threw the stone against the ground. What shocked me was that it didn't shatter but I noticed a drop of my blood was already against it. No no! Not good! I saw Greison come out and batted the meal harshly from my left hand. "Greison, what the heck?" I stood up quickly enraged but grew weak suddenly. He was quick to snatch me into his arms and ease me. "Laura, lassie! Take it easy. There's something--Argh!" "Grei--Oomph!" I fell to the ground as Greison was tossed to the wall. I saw another figure and my eyes grew wide as I saw something slithering towards me. It looked like a snake but I wasn't sure due to the lighting.
"Well, well, well~ Look what I got here!" Greison hissed and attempted to use his nails against whatever held him by the ankle. I couldn't see but I felt something snatch my own ankle, "Ooo~ I knew this was too good to be true." I couldn't see the person's face but it sounded like a male but I wasn't sure. It sounded off to me. "Oh~ Don't start that with me, little kitty." Kitty? Wait! "Hold on! You know what he is?" I glanced at the person holding me by the ankle. "Are you kidding me? I'm not stupid! Might as well have your little friend as a charm~." Greison was thrown near the flames and he screamed and the figure's foot began to push him towards them. "Oh no you don't!" I tried swinging a punch but was left being strung up higher. "You on the other hand, little girl, can be--``''Enough." I screamed and attempted to fight again, "Just get whatever off me!" "Oh! No no~ That'll not do well." I smelled a horribly disgusting breath and almost threw up, "Not funny." "You look good enough to eat. Looks like my little fun is only beginning." I was being raised over the cauldron and I screamed while trying to get whatever off my ankle, "No no! Greison! Stop this person from killing me! Please, set me free!" Greison was quick to react but instead of being kicked into the flames, he was kicked away from me. It laughed at me while coming close to my face again, "Made a little deal with a kitty, hm~? Oh~ This is too good! Won't someone be pleased?" "What're you talking about? Look, I came looking for answers about Peckerton and you string me up like I'm a misbehaving noble lady? You're mad to do this!" "You're one to talk." I felt myself plummet and my head was close to the bubbling liquid. It smelled stranger than I recollected. "So~ What to do with you? Boil or fry? Roasting would be fun! Human flesh is rather good when tender." I tried to get myself free of whatever snatched me but froze in shock when I felt it. It wasn't scaly but somewhat hairy. A tail of all things? "Who or what are you?" I tried setting myself free but I was brought close to the figure. I noticed the odd eyes staring at me and grew shocked. No no! This wasn't real! No no no! I'm not going to die! I'm not going to die by this boy! I felt the bubbling near my bangs but ceased suddenly. I placed my eyes at the figure standing in shock.
"That's quite enough, damn imp!" Imp? I began searching for the source but nothing was present at first. I heard something move around and the figure holding me by the ankle was quick to place me back on the ground. Greison shook his head but hissed as I came beside him. He was injured and it was my fault but grew rather curious as well. "I'm fine but stay sharp." Greison continued to growl and the figure coming towards the boy. "For-Forgive me!" the boy quickly went on the floor as if kissing the ground with a quivering voice, "I didn't mean for it to go too far. I--" "Again, that's enough, damn imp." My eyes went wide as I saw the old man from earlier. One job and I blew it. I am in trouble now and I knew it too well.
"You said Peckerton, yes?" The old man came close to me as Greison snarled and that strange form of his began to manifest. The man looked at him and he backed away more with rage in his blue-gray eyes. "Did you say Peckerton?" The elder man questioned me and I was quickly nodding my head. "One second." A raised finger came and I saw the man retrieve a box from the bizarre arrangement of items. He began being overjoyed by the sight of a bright light and was quick to swallow it. "No!" I began dashing my way to him but Grei was quick to pounce. I was too late. The man turned around and I was left shocked when Greison's claws were deflected off quickly. I froze in place as Greison continued going hard at the odd barrier between him and the elder man.
I turned around and saw the boy back away slowly with a gentle smile. Everything seemed alright but when I turned back, I didn't see the old man in front of me. Instead, a male around his mid-twenties smirked at me with black hair surrounding his head and covering his right eye. Along with it was a minute tress of ashen hair against the veil of hair concealing his right eye. What I didn't know was that he was…Well, let's just say not covered in garments. He shook his head and body a little with a chuckle, "Well~ That's quite a bit better. Won't last long but will do for now." My jaw dropped when I was looking at him. He was beautiful, face wise, but his body was covered in circular scars. What even happened to him? "You're back to normal," the boy was quick to be beside him but the raven haired male rolled his left eye, "You can at least be less intrusive with our little guest, little imp. The more we do this, the more I wish to stew you. Now~ We wouldn't want that, do we?" I swallowed a lump in my throat as his left eye shimmered a bright violet hue. I began thinking back to Marianne from the paper and began wondering if the two of them were the same. Same family but different relatives? He laughed while letting the boy with the tail back off from the three of us, "It's not like I won't do it! Goodness! Look at that little face of yours! You're quite precious! Oh! Just makes me want to eat up every little bit of you."
"Now, about Peckerton." I made it clear and the male couldn't agree less, "Of course, dear girl! Just remember this: Not everything is as they seem." I haven't a clue about what he told me but it sounded like he knew Marianne. If so, time for a little conversation. I just hoped that my stomach wasn't going to create a bad habit of throwing up in front of him or anyone in general. I already had it happen a few times and it was nasty.
~~~
After fixing everything from our little games with this strange human boy, the four of us were settled outside with a fire pit so warm I could remain here forever. The raven haired male sipped on a warm concoction while I had a warm drink of a rather strange drink called milk tea. It was quite good but I needed to keep my head afloat. I needed answers about what happened to Peckerton and everyone after the deluge. I watched the sparks fly when the male finished his drink and threw the so-called 'cup' into the flames. "You told me you wanted answers, yes?" He snapped his fingers and the boy with the cow tail laid beside the flames. I was a little offended with him being used as a foot rest but to the raven haired male, it was his punishment for being rude to me and Grei. I nodded but Grei was first to question him, "You knew Marianne, yes? How did you know her? Did you two meet up somewhere?" I watched that black and silver eye shimmer into a violet color as he smiled, "I did know her but she was something else to me." "So you two didn't intertwine?" I raised an orange brow, "If you knew her, I assume you saw her description in the paper." He shook his head slowly, "My dear girl, it's incorrect. Our paths did intertwine but not in a manner you'd know as orderly." I didn't know what he meant but I continued playing along with him.
He told me that both him and Marianne (better known as Marie) did intertwine threads and it was a nasty clash. I recalled when reading Marianne's description and how her eyes shimmered a violet hue if lucky to see it for a second. The two of them had a conversation or two but it was rather heated at times where violence was the answer. I thought the two of them would have a duel with either swords or guns but I was alarmed to find out the truth with the woman and him. For me, personally, I never thought they'd be real let alone in front of me.
The raven tressed male laughed as that eye of his shimmered a brighter violet color, "Foolish and ridiculous as it sounds but yes, we exist! Let alone my little friend near the flames here, and yes, they exist as well." He told me that they hid among the human race in human guises, both male and female, young and old, white or black skinned. It wasn't just his kind nor even the boy's race. There was more but he didn't wish to tell me. I was alarmed that I almost dropped my drink out of shock. Grei let out something that sounded like an enraged meow but I settled him. "Relax, little kitten, I mean no harm. I hope not to tangle anyone into the fray." That black and silvery eye shimmered again and I was alarmed to see a few branches lean near Grei and pick him up slowly. I glanced back at him with shock as Grei seemed comfy compared to the ground covered in crunchy leaves.
"But, yes, back to Peckerton, my dear," he leaned back amid the boy feeling the weight of both the male's feet. More so, the male witch's feet against the goblin's back. I narrowed my eyes at both of them and focused my attention to the ordeals. Grei leaned forward as the branches held his weight but I didn't care if he fell or remained on them. I wanted to know more. The male witch told me his deals with Peckerton, hoping to create more business alliances but Marianne saw it as an advantage. The female witch made deathly threats to him at times when he slept well at night or in the company of others. I wasn't aware that witches were able to speak to each other in dreams or let alone, thoughts unspoken. As he continued, they were getting out of hand and let the rival medical company where he worked collapse. It was due to who was purest in their take on certain medicines. I'd let you pick whoever was right or wrong since I didn't wish to be rude in any manner.
"After the whole Greenwich deluge, she and her husband left, but I did see her years later. I know what you're thinking, dear girl, that I'd be an old man by now," he laughed with a sense of joy and madness, "but I'm not, my dear! I saw her leave Allerdale with her human husband but the strange part is the husband not coming out of it alive. Over the word of certain goblins like the one under my feet, I heard Marianne lost her senses and went mad." He shrugged and continued to tell me that he followed them for some time. Marianne returned to Milan, Italy, the land of her birth, but her husband wasn't with her. Instead of a living husband, she mourned over the corpse of her loving Armand by the time the last of her family found her. Someone or something slayed him, and the woman went insane, using the funding to find the cause of Armand's death. She slowly died to the unknown avatar, at the physical age of 57 but chronological age of 134. But what he found would alarm me. The same mark on her throat was present but her body was positioned in an embraced manner. Her husband's corpse was in her arms during the time being, nothing but a rotting body that was pried from her arms when the police came to her home.
"I, myself, had to retreat from the crime scene since the police would suspect me for being the killer. My little goblin, Chris, I called him, went to check around but found nothing." He glanced at the goblin at his feet. He relieved him of the pressure and summoned him to his side. He began petting him like he was a four-legged companion. "Well, almost nothing." He smiled a little bit and the two of us were anticipating something. He tilted Chris's head, revealing a strange vein-like mark that started behind his chewed ear and revealed more of it against his chest and shoulders. They looked like veins but the male witch revealed to me that something was in the air and Chris caught it in Marianne's lab. "His race isn't well known for keeping themselves treated well in hygiene. I bathe him from time to time but found out he received a scratch due to the lack of cleaning in Marianne's lab. After a few days passed, I found these marks on him. I, myself, am studying this odd formation of veins slowly turning black in his body. So far, nothing came to me just like Marianne. Chris has her notes in his little collection but no answer is in them, sad to say."
It seemed strange to me to do this but I approached Chris slowly and followed the marks with my fingertips. "Has anyone else had these marks?" I let my fingers cease at the human-guised goblin's chest. The witch slowly shook his head, "Not that I know but when Chris saw you vomit and pass out, I'm afraid it may be present. I'm assuming someone cleaned it but was exposed. I'll be delving myself into more research while you and your little kitten continue to ask around. As I said, my dear, nothing is as they appear or heard." He snapped his fingers again and Chris laid near the flames again just to be a footrest, "You may never know what you'll find out there in the world."
He was right and I've only just begun. Yet, I was quick to mention something else. I mentioned the incident with the strange bird-like creature and the witch laughed, "Even that, my dear little bloodstained haired girl, can surprise you. Yet…" He lowered his head and I had a curious look on my face, "Yes?" He slowly nodded, "Bird creature, you said, yes? Not to mention a figure with a strange mark on his or her right arm?" I nodded and the male witch leaned back while having a puzzled look on his face, "How strange… I'll have to see them for myself." He raised his head, "If you ever find them, bring them to me. I wish to see both this creature and figure you spoke with a scent of excitement and fear. Perhaps even study them." I was a little confused at first but he told me it was a trait among his kind. Who even knew that witches and goblins even exist? I glanced at Grei and nodded while finishing my drink, "Thank you…Sorry about earlier with Chris."
He shook his head, "No no, my dear human girl. It's a little habit I've tried breaking but he won't listen. I'll try to restrain him whenever you return." Chris glanced back at the witch with a fearful look in his reddish eyes. I giggled while slowly heading away from them but froze when hearing the witch call me for me again, "I almost forgot something!" I turned with a bewildered demeanor but I saw what looked like a spool of some sort of thread being thrown to me. "If you're ever in an emergency, place that on your kitty's nails! Trust me!"
Oct. 14th, 1829
I never thought I'd say this but here I am with my dear companion, Jackson, by my side. More so, by his side and his hunting squad. It'd only been a few days since I made my return from the town of Greenwich and recovered from the recent discovery of witches and goblins. I spent the last few days just hoping to see if any sort of magical beings intertwined with the human race. I spent my days in and out of the library, reading fairy and gothic horror tales. Unsettling it was, but wishing to know more while being on the hunting squad would give me some education. After all, I didn't wish to be identified as the dainty and weak woman. I was more a woman with strive and confidence like a sporting young man. Jackson told me that it'd be rather difficult to get by his captain so hiding my face and body would have to be the best trick in the book. He made sure to hide my blood red and sunset orange hair within the cloak dark umber as the trees during summertime shadows and voids. What I didn't know was the captain having a few hunting dogs that'd bark at me or the prey louder than Jackson shouting in glee or rage. Fox Terriers, if my memory was correct, was the breed selected for the job.
"Just ask me again, Laura, but why this?" He was worried about me while he watched the gentlemanly hunters prepare their weapons. The answer was simple. I needed answers and perhaps the man could give me what I wished. Plus, I wanted to try my hands on a rifle or pistol. I knew it was going to be hard but rather fun. Besides, I already watched Jackson use one. If one of the men was Armand's descendant, I'd get something. Armand was already deceased due to the unknown disease so I wondered if others were able to have it passed on. I don't recall the witch telling me if Marianne had a child. If so, he or she'd tell me the answers. If not, maybe the answers could come out of the captain.
Speaking of, he came right away sporting the hunter garb and riding on a stallion strong willed and strengthened. The coat was a brilliant green with accented ivory in the interior stained by ashes of gunpowder. If I recall from what Jackson told me, the rifle he used was an 1816 model. Compared to the pistol Jackson owned, it'd take time and patience to let alone fire the bullet and refill the gunpowder chamber. For now, he allowed me to use a pistol that was of German origin. I only had five shots in it so I had to play safe and lucky. I only practiced firing at a few shots. The targets were made from hay and I practiced at one of the farms in Northern Allerdale. Yet, Greison didn't like me using it since it was too loud and it'd be easier for me to let him out and go mad like a dog. I couldn't be seen with my necklace and labeled as something horrific. I already had enough trouble with what happened before coming back home.
The captain, if I recall hearing his name, was named Ethean Fowler along with his little brother Allen who remained quite quiet. For now, the morning was to be spent collecting traps from the late night session. After all, winter was coming fast and those amber brown eyes and light blonde hair passed by me like the autumn sun or leaves. After the traps were set, the dogs would be released to chase any prey from rabbit to stag. It was up to us, the second team, to follow the dogs and let our bullets fly. Once the day was over, the traps would be reset and a night team would collect the hunted. The morning hunters already collected what was finished last night and took them to be managed by the butchers in the markets and skinners for the fashion industry. We'd be paid for our services and the cycle would start all over again. Riding on a stallion's back was terrifying but Jackson had my back.
"So Jackson," one of his hunter fellows came by and I grew tense, "how's Lewis feeling on his first day, hm?" Yes, I had to conceal myself from the men. I despised the dark clothing I had to wear along with the cloak and scarf. For now, it was for the best. "Seems a little tense, don't you think? Maybe let the professionals have all the fun."
"Knock it off," Jackson was quick to protect me, "The lad's fine so leave him be." I felt a hint of relief wash over me like a splash of spring water from the high mountains. He wouldn't let me down but I was afraid he'd be injured. When I was younger, I knew he'd be close to losing himself due to sleep deprivation since he was taking care of me. Being another mouth to feed was hard on him but his soul was generous and gave me prayers at night to wish me well whenever I was down or ill. I gave him a reassuring shimmer in my eyes and he warmly smiled. I clutched onto the stone within my necklace with my gloved hands concealing the scratches I received from the stone's sharp edge. I wanted to have a little fun but I began feeling something rather off in the air. It smelled strangely sweet and was rather delicious. Were the midwives or the bakery back in town making little tarts? Perhaps it was my mind playing tricks but Grei began acting odd. I sensed him shimmying in his little glass stone cage and grew worried. I perked and Allen noticed something was off but let it rest.
With a whistle after seeing the morning team come back with the traps in their possession, the dogs were set loose from their leashes. Their barking hurt my ears but I heard their paws trample the ground like stallion hooves. My own stallion, golden in hue with a blonde mane and tail with eyes shimmering coal black, neighed in response when I kicked its abdomen with the side of my foot. Before me was Jackson with his stallion a deep umber hue like his hair, beard, and eye with a mane and tail deep black. The captain was before us as well after preparing his rifle and letting the stallion have a head start. Jackson kept the bridle nearby his hand and prepared his pistol as well. It was going to be hard but I couldn't wait to have some fun.
~~~
With guns blazing like wildfire and smoke trailing behind us, Jackson and I were off chasing the prey. The forest was nothing but blurs of many colors and it was a mad sprint. We got ourselves a large stag and the two of us were after it. Ethean was beginning to flank it with his brother Allen and the rest slowing their stallions in the front. It was up to the Fox Terriers to leap and catch the next meal quickly. Jackson told me to aim for the stag's liver for quick death but I kept missing, hitting the ground, hooves, neck or the antlers. "What're you doing?" I began watching Jackson slowly rise from the saddle in shock. Ethaen's eyes widened in amusement as Jackson began leaping from my stallion to the next. It was a mad move but it seems I found out how he lost his eye. I was amazed that he didn't lose his balance or vision. One of the hunters screamed at me to try again but not hit Jackson in the process. I noticed the stag was beginning to slow its pace and I didn't refuse the offer. The dogs were close and so was Jackson. It was mad but I took the moment into consideration.
"Just hold still!" I aimed my pistol at the stag still sprinting madly while my body jostled around like I was stuck in a stew's broth. I leaned forward amid hoping to not scare or hit my stallion by accident with one eye closed. It was wrong of me but it began to become a nasty habit. "Keep both eyes open!" Jackson yelled at me, "You'll get a better shot!" I opened my eyes while my stallion continued to jostle me like a boat in the massive ocean waves. It was more difficult than I thought but he was right. I was already losing my bullets and I'd have to play lucky. The hunter party was screaming at me to take the shot but again, something didn't seem right. I smelled something sweet and heard something high in the foliage. I did a quick glance up but forgot my finger was on the trigger. I fired the shot and heard the stag tumble to the ground. The dogs and Jackson were quick with their pace and I watched them pass by me to trample the mighty stag. My eyes grew wide in shock but one of the hunters pulled at my stallion's bridle. I almost screamed out in shock when it took place but covered my mouth quickly to mute myself. "Look where you're going!" He screamed at me and noticed the two of us passed a large tree, "You almost had yourself killed." I kept my mouth shut since I didn't have time to speak like a boy. The two of us were pulled to a halt and turned around slowly with the stallions snorting for breath.
Ethaen came by and gave me a hard look in those eyes, "Lucky that you managed to take the shot but is it enough to keep you alive?" I swallowed a forming lump in my throat as a shiver grew against my spine. I was quaking in my masculine disguise but Ethaen's attention was taken away from me but from what seemed to be his brother taking care of Jackson's stallion. I took a sigh of relief while petting my golden stallion's head, "Good boy…" A minute kick was enough to keep myself at a low pace but the scent of something sweet continued to grow within the foliage. I glanced around as the hunters clamored about the hunt and had an odd feeling in my stomach. Greison was acting up and I didn't know that my left hand was stripped of the leather glove and the sharp edge was lacerating it. Grei came out in that shadowing form with an angered shimmer in his eyes and I kept my stallion at bay. "Is something bothering you? You've been like this since we came here to the hunter party." He narrowed those eyes of his amid the smoke and mist beginning to clear into a more tangible form. The form I knew as a child all those years ago but a cat tail was present under the black garb he chose for today. Even, he too, wore the hunter's garb but a hat was upon his head to conceal his unnatural blue-gray eyes. He pointed up towards the foliage, "Someone's following us." "I don't understand what you mean…" I narrowed my eyes at him, "What's going on?"
"Stay ready." He prepared his nails with only a flick of his fingers and that tail of his was swishing. Grei narrowed his eyes at the party while getting low to the ground, "Something's not right." I knew it as well since the sweet smell was present in the air and grew stronger. I reloaded my pistol amid slowly making my way towards the party. I watched Grei stalk slowly like a large cat from the wild lands of Africa or Asia as the sweet smell continued to fray into the air and become more tangible. The more I watched the party, the more worried I became. I noticed the stag twitching and moving around like it was alive. A shiver grew against my spine and caressed a cool sensation. I aimed for the stag still moving like it was alive, aiming for the underbelly. I watched the boys play around with it as if it was their prize and those black eyes of that same stag rolled back into its skull rather quickly. But I didn't aim for it. I aimed for the sky and fired a shot in which the gentleman glanced at me including Jackson with a shocked expression.
"What was that for?" Ethean was quick to respond but I remained cold as ice. I gave off an enraged and serious expression as he continued yelling at me, "You're playing cocky, aren't--" "Ethean!" I heard one of the hunters scream in shock amid the dogs barking loudly. He was swift to turn around but my eyes grew wide as the stag screamed out in rage. It glanced at the two of us while the body of that hunter that screamed was being killed by its sharp antlers. I knew buck antlers could injure a man but murder wasn't on the list. It threw the corpse of the hunter aside and charged towards us. "Fall back and regroup! It's on once again!" I watched him snap the reins and flee quickly, leaving me with the reanimated stag. I glanced at Grei as he screamed, charging head on with full valor like a soldier. I watched the stag scream out in rage but also in agony. I was horrified but followed Ethean's orders along with Jackson and the remaining hunters.
"What's going on?" Jackson was shocked and began firing at the stag. "I don't know!" I glanced back to watch Grei lacerate the stag's throat. "I shot the stag but I don't understand how it came back! I didn't do it, Jackson! I swear!" "You know how somethings just frighten the living daylights out of us, lassie! Keep moving and turn around the stallion!" Jackson was quick to take my hand and hop on, "Got an idea but pass it on!" "Seems too late for that!" I noticed the hunters preparing their guns once again and firing at the stag. Jackson was quick to take the reins as I watched the poor creature scream out in agony, turning into something deep red and warped from its former self. The skin was gone, leaving the tendons, muscles, and revealed bones dyed a deep blood red with not even a black orb in its skull. The antlers were larger and sharper but instead of the normal sounds a deer made, it shrieked an unnatural scream. I heard the hunters scream out 'demon', 'monster', 'hellspawn', or anything else that came into mind while falling back to reload or regroup. I didn't see Grei at first but noticed a shadow following the horrid deer-like beast. How my eyes widened once again when seeing Grei come out to 'play' his violent game. He promised me all those years ago that he'd protect me, and he was living up to his word.
"Lassie, what're you doing? Fire that pistol I gave you!" Jackson glanced back at me as I watched in terror. I heard what seemed to be the sound of dogs barking as well but they weren't normal. I saw some of the Fox Terriers as well and grew horrified when seeing them in a rotting form. "Get moving!" I finally screamed at Jackson while letting the reins whip the golden stallion, "Get moving!" "What the bloody devil are you-- Oh my God!" The two of us saw a rotting dog leap towards us from above and I was quick to fire Jackson's pistol along with mine. It screeched in shock and pain, rolling behind us but I heard it rise from its fallen position.
"Fire~!" "Fire~!" The bullets came and shimmered in the light, and the two of us ducked our heads as those dogs and the stag continued its chase. I heard them bark and scream at us and our stallion was beginning to lose its speed. "No no no! Don't do this!" I was shocked as the two of us heard it pant from exhaustion. "Keep moving!" Jackson fired another shot after taking his pistol back from my hand. I was clumsy with my reload due to the horse galloping like a madman. We felt like we were flying for a few seconds before hitting the ground again for another few seconds.
"We need to steer these things away from Allerdale or any nearby town! If they reach the town, they'll be gone!" Grei came out of the shadows while trying to keep up. I screamed loudly as the stag made its charge again towards us. Jackson veered to the right amid trampling one of the undead hounds by the hooves. Ethean and Allen were swift to reach our sides with hands outstretched.
"Do you trust me?" Jackson turned to me while continuing to control the stallion past the many trees and branches. "What?" I screamed at him while attempting to snatch Allen's hand but failed due to the trees blocking us. "Do you trust me, lassie?" I saw him fumble with the saddle clips and grew frightened, "What're you doing?" "Answer me, lassie! Our lives depend on it!" He fired a shot towards one of the dogs and I watched it roll back against a tree. I heard the crunch of bones along with a warped whimper but I nodded quickly. "Good!" Jackson quickly undid the belt buckle and I watched him slide against the stallion's side. I saw his infuriated but confident shimmer in his eyes amid the undead stag charging towards us.
"Lean back!" He gave me the order and I did so. The stallion screamed and I saw Jackson leap for the creature, snatching himself by the head and antlers. I watched him pull out a knife and lacerate the stag's neck hard and deep. I heard it scream amid the dogs barking back at me and the brothers firing shots. "Lewis, jump!" Ethean was swift with his hand and I was quick to snatch it. The dogs veered head on for the stallion and I heard it scream in terror and agony. Allen continued chasing them and fired a shot at the dogs and stallion. I watched the horse leave the living world behind in its final wake with a painful whine. Ethaen held me close as the dogs began to devour the stallion quickly, and I heard the horrid munching and howls of pleasure. I heard Jackson scream out and I watched Allen head back for him. I hopped off Ethaen's stallion amid being cautious with those rabid dogs munching away at my stallion. I couldn't understand…How could this happen? Was this involved with the Peckerton case or something bigger? Would that male witch be the blame for this or even that bird creature? What about that figure with the marked right arm?
My pondering was silenced when Jackson showed up with the deer's head on the ground and him being exhausted from the battle. Ethaen was enraged and confused about what happened but I heard Greison meowing angrily. "The fight isn't over yet." I glanced at Grei who was readying himself to pounce, "Hold yourself." I grew aggressive and growled at him, "You were supposed to be there!" The dogs began slowing their meal and I grew afraid. I was quick to brush my fingers against the gun, aiming with a shaky hand but Grei quickly slapped it out of my hand. He glanced at me with a confident look on his face, "Give me the order." I gave him the order and pointed at the first dog I saw, "Kill them." He smiled and that strange form came back, "As you wish~"
The dogs turned to Greison and I with my gun ready to fire. I already saw them bleeding and wishing to tear us apart but I never thought Grei would accomplish this. He began by running towards them and a shackle formed right behind him like a shadow moved with the light. He proceeded to let the shackles form into long chains and heavy purses, weighing them to the ground with a strange violet glow. The glow began to turn pink then white and the dogs barked at him. More of them came and the light began to form. He quickly came back to me and covered my eyes. The last thing I saw him accomplish was hold his hand out and chant something rather strange. The dogs screamed out in horror and I heard the ground shake and crack underneath us. I heard them continue to cry out and it pierced my ears amid the light growing stronger. His chanting grew louder as the ground shook more violently than before with the hunter party clamoring in shock. I clutched the stone tightly and heard the dogs no more but echoes of their former selves. The ground's violent quaking vanished slowly along with the light and the sound of chains shaking becoming nothing but a whisper in the wind.
"Grei…" I was worried, "Are they--" He removed his black gloved hand from my eyes and nodded slowly, "My lassie, they're gone now. They won't harm you anymore." He owned a gentle smile and doted me, "You're cute with that little gun. Might as well use it only for target practice from now on, my dear Laura." "Grei…" I was worried since I also didn't see the stallion, "Where did they--" I heard the sound of a gun near my head and froze in shock. I gasped as my eyes glanced at the person who was holding it. I was horrified and only one word came out of his mouth.
"Witch…" Jackson held an angered shimmer in his eye. Fear grew inside me and Grei meowed in rage. I heard the hammer cock back amid a strong hand snatched my little arm. I never thought I'd say this but I messed up. I held my hands up amid dropping the pistol. I messed up and it was my fault for this incident. I'm sorry for all this, Jackson. Trust me…
~~~
"What in the bloody Hell, Laura?" Jackson was enraged with me while holding onto his rosary tightly. I felt his wounds against my abdomen and arms just from him kicking or scratching me. The two of us were alone along with Grei trying to interfere but Jackson was quick to take the necklace from my hand. "How long were you a witch, huh?" I felt the religious side of him get into the fray, "Tell me!" "Jackson, stop it!" I screamed just for the pain to cease. I had enough of him from what happened and night was already upon us. "Did you sign the Devil's book just to gain that damn familiar as your ally?" I was frightened by him raising his foot near my body again. I despised this side of him but I had nowhere to run. He saved me all those years ago but I despised him for being like this. I'd blame his family for this manner! "I know I'm making a damn ruckus, lassie, but tell me the truth!" I felt him pull against the back of my coat and quickly strip me, "Has this thing been feeding off you, lassie?" I quickly shook my head, "No! He's been with me when I was a kid and came back to me!" I felt his fingers against my back and quickly stripped me of my corset. I never felt so humiliated in my life! "You should be thanking him for what he did back in August!" "What the bloody name of God are you talking about?" He was shocked and I pushed myself away from him. I went to the nearest corner to conceal myself in the shadows.
Tears were streaming from my face as I quaked in fear. Jackson looked like a monstrous dog and I was the hunted prey ready to be killed. "Laura, listen to me, lassie," he came to me slowly, "I just want to save you from the Devil. Now tell me the answers I'm looking for right now." I saw him clutch the stone and put it to my face, "First, how did you get this stone? Second, how long ago did you sign the Devil's book? Third, how long have you been a witch? Fourth, has this thing inside this stone been feeding off you?" I was frightened and despised lying. I didn't want the pain to continue. I was in a vulnerable position and Jackson was stronger than me. He'd rarely let his rage get out of control but this was different. I gave him a stern demeanor amid quickly letting my hand reach out for the stone. Jackson was quick to pull it back but not enough to let my finger be lacerated by the sharp edge. Greison came out and was angered with Jackson's behavior. He came beside me and proceeded to dress me back into my evening wear. "First, I obtained that stone by accident back in New York." I dressed myself in dark umber pants, "Second, I didn't sign any book that belonged to the devil but more so a strange creature from New York. It lived within the church ruins just outside from where I lived as a little girl." Jackson's eyes grew narrow but began to calm. I sat near my vanity while pinning my hair back after placing on an aged ivory shirt and cravat, "Third, I'm not a witch but an everyday girl with a few male quirks. Fourth, Greison never fed off me. If so, you would've poked every single freckle on my poor face with a needle just so you'd scar me forever." I placed on my recently retrieved walking boots with the slight heel and laced in the back instead of the front, "I ask you now, Jackson…Does that answer your set of questions?"
I wiped away my burning tears and gave him a burning shimmer within my orange sunset eyes. His dark umber eye widened in alarm but his faith remained strong, "So if it's not a familiar, you summoned this demon from Hell along with its ghastly friend back in New York?" I slowly shook my head, "Greison came to me and protected me before you came into my life." I lowered my head, "Speaking of, you remember when you found me, yes?" He clicked his tongue while crossing his arms, "Yes~ I saw your body being almost nothing and had no choice but to take you into my arms. Why, lassie?" I glanced at Greison and petted his little cat head gently. He looked at me with widened eyes amid ceasing his enraged growls and meows. I nodded as he did. He knew what was going to come out of my mouth. I told Jackson everything. Everything that night when I left New York and came to Allerdale in the first place. Everything from a beautiful moment of fun and joy to a night full of horror and fear. I watched his rage turn to total shock and horror as my stern face turned to fear and pain. This was my secret and I knew it'd be difficult for him to keep it.
"Wait wait wait!" He paused me with that same look of shock and horror on his face, "You mean that you coming here was but an accident?" I nodded amid petting Grei's head and my fingers quaking. "And the Peckerton case…You think this is connected with what happened back home? With all the missing people back in New York and here?" "I believe so…" I finally admitted while looking back at the chart full of threads, sketches, and newspaper clippings, "I didn't mean for this to happen. I feel like what I may have--``''Laura, no no no no~" He came close to me and held my face like I was a child, "It's not your fault. You didn't cause this to happen. You didn't do this whole mess, lassie. I didn't mean for my faith to get ahead of me. I know it's wrong for me to blame your sex as the one who did whatever happened today." I heard that before…I recall reading something like that a long time ago when I first came here. There were a series of German witch trials where innocent women were burned to the stake or even hung until no air was left in them. After all, the church would blame girls for being better than them, calling them witches or demons as the excuse.
"Laura, I swear!" I continued to glance away from Jackson, "I didn't mean for this to happen." Greison growled at him in his cat form but I seized him by holding him by the scruff of his neck. "I know you mean well but don't do this to me. I tire of you doing this to me." I rose from my seat near the vanity and began to leave Jackson behind, "Think about what you did before giving me the proper apology." "Laura!" Jack was quick to rise up to his feet and race for me but I closed the door on him after Grei came beside my leg. I needed some time alone with Greison, and needed a moment to investigate what happened earlier today.
Oct. 15th, 1829
Heading back to Northeastern Allerdale was quite the trek, even on a stallion's well formed back. Ashen gray and black was the hue for this one I rode with its black mane and tail cut rather short due to being once a soldier's horse. With delicacy in my step, I landed onto the ground and caressed the horse's head in a warm manner while continuing my trek. A warm orange lantern was in my hand amid Greison being perched upon my shoulder. His eyes were able to see the world in a whole new manner in which I wasn't able to see. He meowed amid leaping off my shoulder and sniffed the ground a few times.
"Well? Anything?" I glanced at him while tying the stallion to a nearby branch. I made sure my cloak was on me tightly since the winds were rather cold tonight. I watched him leap a few times and sit upon the ground where the stag was shot by my hand alone. I came beside him and watched him play around with one of the leaves that floated up into the wind but I was the one who gave him serenity. I petted his head and moved the leaves aside, finding what looked like a little flower flourishing in the moonlight. Yet, the little flower was almost close to dead with the petals black along with the stem and leaves. Odd little flower, it seemed, but almost familiar. I pulled my journal from my coat pocket along with my quill and inkwell. I attempted to sketch the poor little flower but my artist's hand wasn't well educated. Grei continued playing with the leaves but through the frolicking, it seemed there were more. Almost a whole bed of them and I was alarmed. I snatched Greison by his little abdomen amid the stallion behind me neighing with a hint of fear.
"No turning back…" I let out a shaky breath and began feeling through the bed but there was something odd with it. It seemed that the bed was rather lumpy as if something was here. The more I felt it, the lumpier it became in certain areas. Oh~ I wish I had a spade with me! I began ripping through the flower bed and dirt full of its ugly roots that reminded me of veins or arteries in a human body. The more I hand dugged, the sweeter the smell came to my nostrils. I realized what I was digging but there was no returning. I eventually found myself face to face with a shallow graved body. The body gave me a startle and I screamed in shock amid retreating rather quickly. My eyes were horrified and my legs almost kicked the poor lantern that the flame almost went out. Grei's cat eyes widened in shock and horror as much mine did. I never thought I'd say this but why was a corpse here of all places? I didn't know we passed over a shallow grave yesterday! Honest to God, I didn't know we violated someone's poor soul! I had to report this to the police as soon as I returned or even the doctor to see if there's any way to examine the trampled body. The stench was grotesque and I covered my mouth rather quickly. The stallion neighed with fear and I was swift to settle the poor horse's mind.
"I don't understand why this body was dumped here…" I glanced at Grei now in human form amid his cat tail swishing at the body just to clean it up, "Whose is it?" I shook my head, "I don't know…" Greison glanced back at the body and sighed while caressing the decaying head, "Pity seeing this poor soul not getting a proper burial. Sorry for being a bit morbid, Laura, but it needs a proper bed to rest within unless that soul comes back just to try and kill us like last time." He was right but I was afraid that soul would come back. Perhaps this poor soul was murdered like Peckerton. Those haunting words came back to me and I held a shiver but I was rather too late since it went through my body. The thought of the dead coming back to try and kill us was terrifying. I already saw it happen but I was frightened to tell anyone. Only the hunter party, Jackson, and I saw it take place.
"No marks either…" Greison examined the body while I watched him violate the poor corpse. I yearned to burn it so it'd know peace and return to the earth just to nourish life. "Should've been some on the body since we know it's one of the signs of illness." I watched Grei come back to my side with a stern look in his unnatural eyes but he ceased his tracks. I was curious about why he did it but I turned, feeling like something was there but at the same time, not present. A rather cool wind took place and I surrendered my body to the warmth inside my cloak but not to the cold. I didn't hear an enraged growl come from his mouth but I continued watching him come near me.
"No no~ Don't be afraid!" I blinked as I heard the voice of a woman. I turned and saw a figure hiding in the shadows. "I can't believe it!" This woman's voice raised to joy, "You found it!" I grew confused, "Excuse me?" Grei became prepared but the woman raised a hand, "No no! Don't do that, please!" "What's it to you, woman?" Grei narrowed his eyes at the girl hiding in the darkened shadows. I remained close to the stallion as this woman began to make herself known. Or well, more like the figure of her in which I couldn't see. Everything from head to toe was black. Even her veil was black and I was left rather bewildered. I wished to touch it but she insisted that I not do it. I watched her back away from us but she remained rather interesting to me. I wished to know what happened to her but her memories were quite boggled. All she remembered was wandering through the woods where the two of us stood from time to time. Then her words shocked me.
"I knew Peckerton…" My jaw went agape, "Excuse me?" "What do you mean? How?" Grei was quick to respond as well with a shocked demeanor. I watched her lower her veiled head, "If you must know, I shall tell you what took place but you mustn't tell. I'm afraid someone is watching us." I glanced high into the night sky and then amid shaking my head, "No one is here except us. Well, there's God but I don't know if He'd listen to your tale." "Very well…" She lowered herself and I saw what looked like little lilies grow and then die in a matter of seconds, "I shall tell you what happened to me."
If wishing to introduce herself, she was known as Melissa Hewitt, the daughter of a factory worker within the town of Norfolk. If wishing to see her before concealing herself in the pitch coal garbs, her hair would be a gorgeous blonde and her eyes an oceanic sheen. Her figure was a little one like mine amid her bosom being slightly robust. As a child, she'd wait for her father to come home each night from a hard day of work. He worked for a ship production factory near the Atlantic seas, working long ten to twelve hours days with little time to rest. One day, when she was a bit older, her father didn't return amidst her mother becoming ill with an unknown disease later identified as cholera. She found out later that he didn't make it out alive from an accident and now she was the breadwinner for her mother. At times, she picked up random jobs but none stuck for a short time. She found herself later working in the sex industry as a prostitute, selling her body for the pleasures of men. Times were harder back then and I wasn't born during that time. Peckerton later found her intriguing and eventually began letting emotion take place instead of business. Love flourished between the two and she went up the ranks in the spirit industry. If I remember, there was once a bottle of Peckerton's spirit that held the same name. Melissa, he called it, if I recalled looking into the documents correctly. Well, I was getting ahead of myself!
As the years passed, there was a dispute among the women and I was horrified to hear that Mrs. Chantelle Girder snatched Armand's pistol and attempted to kill her. Her motive was Melissa's background as a prostitute, and her blood made the club impure. She was lucky to survive but Peckerton, unfortunately, was losing his interest in her. She was played, and rejected months later, but found herself lucky not to be caught in the disputes with the Greenwich deluge. Her return to Norfolk was a lamenting trip for she didn't know the tales of his death until later from rumors and papers. Yet, she recalled someone telling her what truly happened but her mind was boggled.
I was confused as much as she was right now, "Do you believe someone was to be blamed?" She shook her head, "I recall the cynical Mr. Laforeze and young Mr. Girder said something about a particular wine that was being produced by Peckerton and an unknown connoisseur. By the time it was produced, it went bad but Peckerton always drank it. Both men recalled how he rejoiced over the sweet taste while the rest of the club always complained about it being rather grotesque." "Is the bottle still there?" I wanted to know but she shook her head, "The bottle was destroyed but I do recall the name of the bottle." "Wait, Mrs. Hewitt," I was quick to intervene, "The bottle is being made once again. If it's the same bottle you speak of, I saw a few of my friends drink it and say it was divine to the palette. What was the profile of that same wine?" I wasn't able to tell if she was shocked but I heard a little gasp, "The bottle resurfaced along with the damned recipe?" There was fear in her voice and I heard her say something about someone coming back. I wanted to know but she refused to tell me except one thing, "If you wish to know more, return to the club! You'll find what you're looking for there!" "Mrs. Hewitt, wait!" Greison began chasing her and I followed close behind on horseback. The two of us chased her and Greison attempted to use that same move used yesterday on the undead dogs and stag. The two of us didn't see her and even with the orange flamed lantern I owned by my side or the shimmering moonlight and starlight from high in the heavens, I wasn't able to see her. The horse whined a few times amid being rather frightened by the lack of light but nothing was present. I wasn't able to see her amid Greison having a hard time traversing through the thicket. I was rather surprised to see him change rather quickly into his cat form and chase the woman dressed in black. It was silent and I didn't like it. It was killing my anticipation. There was no way she'd move quickly in that full gown upon her body and veil over her precious face.
"Anything?" I glanced into the thicket where Grei leaped into but only a little meow came out of his mouth. I heard him leap out but found a rather strange little bottle in his mouth. I hopped off the gray speckled stallion and came to his side with an opened hand. He dropped it before sitting on the leaf covered ground and proceeding to clean himself. His little glowing eyes laid upon the vial containing some sort of powder inside and it only made my curiosity worsen like a disease. What was this little bottle? How come it was here and not the woman known as Melissa Hewitt? I needed answers along with the corpse and perhaps that male witch could give it to me. I nodded at Greison and he was quick to land upon my shoulders and wrap his little body around my neck like a scarf. He purred and rubbed his little black head against my cheek. He knew what I was thinking and it was time for a little visit.