On Sunday, July 25, 2021, 12:31 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Indeed," Dr Van Hoff calmly agreed, his frown indicating that his mind moved on to a different matter.

?

"I also don't like him changing his position in bed so drastically. Though I have not been with the patient all of this time, every time I saw him responding to some unknown dream stimulus, his body would move accordingly,?it seems to me that if not restrained, such undesirable maneuvers would eventually cause him pain.

?

Ludwig also overheard him saying something about it not being his fault. It was?during the time period when you were gone of course. Do you recall hearing something like that? I wish I knew what it was, so that we could decrease his suffering before he gets too entangled into it," Van Hoff?thoughtfully considered, marveling at how many mysteries his new patient seemed to have presented.

?

***

?

"How could he have not adore me, Heidi? Well, he looks at me like a harridan. Unreasonable vicious hag. He does not look at me lovingly. He commented on my larger size, and I don't think he meant is as an encouraging sign of the changes in me.

?

He probably did not enjoy me entertaining my own opinion once it disagreed with his," Elizabeth stated honestly, recalling Victor's refusal to go to a priest.

?

"He does speak of loving me, but never mentions what it is that he loves. He repeats a lot about having me back. I think that is all he values. I cannot be certain, but it feels that his ability to?control my destiny is the one thing that pleases him about me.

?

It feels as if he wants me docile, and if he doesn't, then well, he does not express his fondness for me in any definite terms, terms that I could understand as relating to me, instead of to his own genius that brought me back. It probably does not make sense to you.

?

You might think me as having too high of a standard for care. You may be right. But Ladies in my position must be selective in whom they shower with their affection, and whom they accept the said affection from," Elizabeth complained. ?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 28, 2021 12:29 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I think you are right Doctor, Mary Beth agreed, he is probably the?receiving end of the clubs wrongdoing, rather than a part of it. I never?looked at it that way, but now that you mention it, such probably is the case. I think we would do well to focus on that, until such a time as we learn something different.

I think you do very well to love him, mistress, Heidi inserted, do you not think that he brought you back for Love? She shook her head when Elizabeth asked about him pleasing her, or the image of her. He probably believes you to be much the same image as you were before, just, yourself, his dear Elizabeth. How could he not adore you even as you are, whatever changes may have happened? Heidi watched and studied her mistress, wondering what her answer would be.

On Sunday, June 27, 2021, 12:47 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh I am well aware. That is why such an explanation never even occurred to me until you suggested it in your not inconsiderable wisdom, Mary Beth.

?

A pity that many of the comforting explanations are not true. After all, if there is one thing the scientific method taught us, is that causality is not the same as correlation," Van Hoff sadly agreed.

?

"I suppose, now that I think of it, most of the practicing members of the club I have seen are in prime condition. If anything, Our patient here found himself on the receiving end of their hospitality. No, you are right, the more I think of it, the less likely it seems," the doctor concluded, abandoning his earlier dry?sarcasm?in favor of?his customarily somber approach.

?

****

?

"But Heidi, is it me he truly seeks to please, or his image of?me? They are leagues apart, you know," Elizabeth objected, unmollified.

?

Her heart was not truly in it, to forgive Victor now. She knew that with certainty. It has cherished him with utter devotion but acknowledged the monster he has become and cast him out, away from itself.

?

It was not going to dwell much on Victor who left it indifferent and preferred to focus on Cylas who made it skip a beat or two.

?

"If only he could restore me to the way I was, but he could not have. He should not have even tried. His guilt, his thoughts of me, they led him astray. I wished for none of it.

?

I would have agreed with him that I saw things as good once, as normal. But I was likely oblivious to the intense pressure he has already begun to experience back then. How could I be so oblivious? I know not. Ask me not. I asked myself often enough and could not come up with a redeeming answer," Elizabeth honestly confided.?

?

???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2021 12:09 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, it would explain quite a bit I suppose, his?being a member of that club, but we cannot come up with such things merely for our own convenience. It will help a lot when we can actually talk to him.

I have heard him speak of you quite often, mistress, Heidi admitted. I think he practically lives to please you, which I would think, is a good thing. Her head lowered sympathetically when Elizabeth talked about what befell?Victor.

The poor man, losing his parents so early and all, he probably still carries guilt from that. It has likely been difficult for him, having lost them, and feeling there was nothing he could have done, yet wishing that there were something he could do. ?Likely many of his experiments are probably to keep that from happening again, but all I know is, in the days when you were…, Absent, he spoke of almost nothing else but bringing you back, and having you back here, with him.


God loves you.

On Wednesday, June 23, 2021, 5:34 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth, I cannot be certain if he is. We have not been told directly, as you know. But I must say, this case has been somewhat unusual and his spouse behaved rather unusually as well.

?

Ordinarily, when the household is so strange, I would suspect a tension, perhaps difficulties within family interaction. Illegitimate heirs, splitting the inheritance, affairs even. But this case is all the more strange because it has the typical symptoms of tension, without direct evidence to any of these factors taking place.

?

I don't pretend to know the truth. But at the same time, I must admit. To some degree, having our patient as member of the club would explain a lot. It would not necessarily suggest a better treatment for, we have done our best at any ate. But it would satisfy my burning curiosity regardless." Van Hoff?readily admitted.

?

?****

"I know it is said so, Heidi dear. But our Victor is a singular man. Might we know with certainty that such ideas apply to him as well. Do you really think he feels that way towards me, because you think he should, or because you know he does, from his own words? There is a difference, you know," Elizabeth sadly objected, though her sadness was not truly at Victor's rejection of her but the fact that he still had to?present an issue even when he was largely absent.

?

"With him? Yes, and no. It was, perhaps, how he was shaped by what befell him. Or perhaps his personality responding to these things that shaped him. His parents died prematurely. They were middle aged both, but he thought, he seemed to think there was some fault that was with him. That he wasn't able to hold time still. That he was not able to help them.

?

It sounds wrong, I suppose, but he thought he could have done more. And he started realizing that some scientific experiments have not been conducted yet. And it as up to him to perform all of them, somehow," Elizabeth reminisced. Almost fondly despite things not seeming quite normal even then, but they were much better in those days compared to now. Well now, that was not true, she had Keres and Cylas, she reminded herself. ?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 14, 2021 4:46 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth looked startled as Van Hoff spoke about the Gentlemans club. Doctor, you don’t think that he…, You don’t think he is a member of such a club, do you? She stepped back a few paces from the bed where Victor was still sleeping, although somewhat fitfully.

Oh no mistress, Heidi was somewhat startled when Elizabeth asked if she thought Victor was weary of her. No I don’t think he is weary of you in the least, I think he very much needs you, as it is said that all men need women far more than they realize, at least while their women are alive.

She nodded when Elizabeth spoke of him chasing some fancy in his own mind. It is one thing for a man to have a hobby, but quite another when he gives up that hobby for the somewhat vain pursuits of the inner workings of his own mind.

And yes it is strange, she continued, but mistress, do you suppose that strangeness originates with him? What I mean is, just as you say we are strange by virtue of his strangeness, by whom, or by whose virtue is he, strange? Where does it all originate? Does it begin with him? I should think surely not. She answered her own question, hoping that she was right.


God loves you.

On Monday, June 14, 2021, 12:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Dear Mary Beth, this is the facade they choose to hide their true goals. And those goals are...odd at best. It is not that I am privy to their conferences. But I have been invited once to attend to most uncharacteristic wounds a club member was suffering from.

?

And, and there is a strange odor at all times, too pervasive to ignore. As you know, I am well accustomed to...all manner of sickness, but what the so called gentlemen have been doing, is best described as a strange experiment. I am at a loss to describe precisely what I suspect, but if I were you, I would not trust the cultured veneer of the club," Van Hoff uncomfortably confided. ???

?

Elizabeth sadly nodded her understanding and sympathy with Heidi's almost unexpected confession. "I feel my old friends have the same idea of me. In truth, I feel as if Victor's antics reflect on all of us. We have become strange by virtue of his strangeness. As if it in itself can affect us all somehow. How passing strange it is.

?

?

Yes, I certainly hope he will. I would rather he did not chase some fancy?inside of his own mind, choosing it over the more practical domestic bliss, especially if, I, representing the said bliss,?wearied his imaginative soul with my practicality. So you don't think he is weary of me then? How intriguing. Well, I am sure there will be a man who will give you exactly?what you deserve, Heidi.

?

I do believe there is one for each of us, and it can be a matter of time before we meet them,?" Elizabeth?spoke, secretly?hinting at?herself and Cylas as much as Heidi's destiny.

?

She may not?have been able to state her wishes directly, but the implication alone, made her feel more somehow. She had so much more to offer. Be so much more than a mere failed experiment. There were people out there who would appreciate her new?essential nature, even if the?misbegotten Victor no longer could.????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 28, 2021 12:29 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I think you are right Doctor, Mary Beth agreed, he is probably the?receiving end of the clubs wrongdoing, rather than a part of it. I never?looked at it that way, but now that you mention it, such probably is the case. I think we would do well to focus on that, until such a time as we learn something different.

I think you do very well to love him, mistress, Heidi inserted, do you not think that he brought you back for Love? She shook her head when Elizabeth asked about him pleasing her, or the image of her. He probably believes you to be much the same image as you were before, just, yourself, his dear Elizabeth. How could he not adore you even as you are, whatever changes may have happened? Heidi watched and studied her mistress, wondering what her answer would be.

On Sunday, June 27, 2021, 12:47 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh I am well aware. That is why such an explanation never even occurred to me until you suggested it in your not inconsiderable wisdom, Mary Beth.

?

A pity that many of the comforting explanations are not true. After all, if there is one thing the scientific method taught us, is that causality is not the same as correlation," Van Hoff sadly agreed.

?

"I suppose, now that I think of it, most of the practicing members of the club I have seen are in prime condition. If anything, Our patient here found himself on the receiving end of their hospitality. No, you are right, the more I think of it, the less likely it seems," the doctor concluded, abandoning his earlier dry?sarcasm?in favor of?his customarily somber approach.

?

****

?

"But Heidi, is it me he truly seeks to please, or his image of?me? They are leagues apart, you know," Elizabeth objected, unmollified.

?

Her heart was not truly in it, to forgive Victor now. She knew that with certainty. It has cherished him with utter devotion but acknowledged the monster he has become and cast him out, away from itself.

?

It was not going to dwell much on Victor who left it indifferent and preferred to focus on Cylas who made it skip a beat or two.

?

"If only he could restore me to the way I was, but he could not have. He should not have even tried. His guilt, his thoughts of me, they led him astray. I wished for none of it.

?

I would have agreed with him that I saw things as good once, as normal. But I was likely oblivious to the intense pressure he has already begun to experience back then. How could I be so oblivious? I know not. Ask me not. I asked myself often enough and could not come up with a redeeming answer," Elizabeth honestly confided.?

?

???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2021 12:09 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, it would explain quite a bit I suppose, his?being a member of that club, but we cannot come up with such things merely for our own convenience. It will help a lot when we can actually talk to him.

I have heard him speak of you quite often, mistress, Heidi admitted. I think he practically lives to please you, which I would think, is a good thing. Her head lowered sympathetically when Elizabeth talked about what befell?Victor.

The poor man, losing his parents so early and all, he probably still carries guilt from that. It has likely been difficult for him, having lost them, and feeling there was nothing he could have done, yet wishing that there were something he could do. ?Likely many of his experiments are probably to keep that from happening again, but all I know is, in the days when you were…, Absent, he spoke of almost nothing else but bringing you back, and having you back here, with him.


God loves you.

On Wednesday, June 23, 2021, 5:34 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth, I cannot be certain if he is. We have not been told directly, as you know. But I must say, this case has been somewhat unusual and his spouse behaved rather unusually as well.

?

Ordinarily, when the household is so strange, I would suspect a tension, perhaps difficulties within family interaction. Illegitimate heirs, splitting the inheritance, affairs even. But this case is all the more strange because it has the typical symptoms of tension, without direct evidence to any of these factors taking place.

?

I don't pretend to know the truth. But at the same time, I must admit. To some degree, having our patient as member of the club would explain a lot. It would not necessarily suggest a better treatment for, we have done our best at any ate. But it would satisfy my burning curiosity regardless." Van Hoff?readily admitted.

?

?****

"I know it is said so, Heidi dear. But our Victor is a singular man. Might we know with certainty that such ideas apply to him as well. Do you really think he feels that way towards me, because you think he should, or because you know he does, from his own words? There is a difference, you know," Elizabeth sadly objected, though her sadness was not truly at Victor's rejection of her but the fact that he still had to?present an issue even when he was largely absent.

?

"With him? Yes, and no. It was, perhaps, how he was shaped by what befell him. Or perhaps his personality responding to these things that shaped him. His parents died prematurely. They were middle aged both, but he thought, he seemed to think there was some fault that was with him. That he wasn't able to hold time still. That he was not able to help them.

?

It sounds wrong, I suppose, but he thought he could have done more. And he started realizing that some scientific experiments have not been conducted yet. And it as up to him to perform all of them, somehow," Elizabeth reminisced. Almost fondly despite things not seeming quite normal even then, but they were much better in those days compared to now. Well now, that was not true, she had Keres and Cylas, she reminded herself. ?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 14, 2021 4:46 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth looked startled as Van Hoff spoke about the Gentlemans club. Doctor, you don’t think that he…, You don’t think he is a member of such a club, do you? She stepped back a few paces from the bed where Victor was still sleeping, although somewhat fitfully.

Oh no mistress, Heidi was somewhat startled when Elizabeth asked if she thought Victor was weary of her. No I don’t think he is weary of you in the least, I think he very much needs you, as it is said that all men need women far more than they realize, at least while their women are alive.

She nodded when Elizabeth spoke of him chasing some fancy in his own mind. It is one thing for a man to have a hobby, but quite another when he gives up that hobby for the somewhat vain pursuits of the inner workings of his own mind.

And yes it is strange, she continued, but mistress, do you suppose that strangeness originates with him? What I mean is, just as you say we are strange by virtue of his strangeness, by whom, or by whose virtue is he, strange? Where does it all originate? Does it begin with him? I should think surely not. She answered her own question, hoping that she was right.


God loves you.

On Monday, June 14, 2021, 12:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Dear Mary Beth, this is the facade they choose to hide their true goals. And those goals are...odd at best. It is not that I am privy to their conferences. But I have been invited once to attend to most uncharacteristic wounds a club member was suffering from.

?

And, and there is a strange odor at all times, too pervasive to ignore. As you know, I am well accustomed to...all manner of sickness, but what the so called gentlemen have been doing, is best described as a strange experiment. I am at a loss to describe precisely what I suspect, but if I were you, I would not trust the cultured veneer of the club," Van Hoff uncomfortably confided. ???

?

Elizabeth sadly nodded her understanding and sympathy with Heidi's almost unexpected confession. "I feel my old friends have the same idea of me. In truth, I feel as if Victor's antics reflect on all of us. We have become strange by virtue of his strangeness. As if it in itself can affect us all somehow. How passing strange it is.

?

?

Yes, I certainly hope he will. I would rather he did not chase some fancy?inside of his own mind, choosing it over the more practical domestic bliss, especially if, I, representing the said bliss,?wearied his imaginative soul with my practicality. So you don't think he is weary of me then? How intriguing. Well, I am sure there will be a man who will give you exactly?what you deserve, Heidi.

?

I do believe there is one for each of us, and it can be a matter of time before we meet them,?" Elizabeth?spoke, secretly?hinting at?herself and Cylas as much as Heidi's destiny.

?

She may not?have been able to state her wishes directly, but the implication alone, made her feel more somehow. She had so much more to offer. Be so much more than a mere failed experiment. There were people out there who would appreciate her new?essential nature, even if the?misbegotten Victor no longer could.????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

On Saturday, July 10, 2021, 12:11 PM, Hugin <blaisegellert@...> wrote:

Natari paused to consider when he asked how long it took her to adapt to vampirism.

"The killing instinct is the hunger and blood lust, for many of us.? Were vampires human again lacking that blood lust, they should not need to kill.? Eating would no longer involve killing. The only danger would be those who would've killed as humans as well for other reasons."

She shrugged.

"Of course I was not one of those.? The other things took a bit longer to learn. The proper uses of vampiric speed and strength so as not to overshoot.? Learning to use extra senses, the hypnotism and seeing in the dark were faster. Learning not to accidentally break things or move too fast around mortals took a day or two. I was suitably adjusted in a few days, though mentally I still had to grow accustom to the change. I had to process being no longer human, This specific thing is personal and likely has no time limit.? As we usually benefit, though, it is fast enough I should think."

?

She gave a slight smile.

"Good things are far more easily adjusted to than bad."

She watched him playfully as he considered her question. She saw the flicker in his eyes as he realized he could enjoy blood...the life of being a vampire, for it was a heightened life and not the death he'd once believed.? She smiled, not bothering to hide the amusement this caused, though not blatant.

Monsters stuck in your head
(We are, we are, we are)
Monsters under your bed

----- Original Message -----

From: Hugin

To: [email protected]

Sent: Saturday, July 10, 2021 7:16 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Out on the London Town, Rena, Henry, Leti

Leti opened her mouth to ask if anyone wanted brandy?in their tea, then closed it again.? Then opened it and at last simply held up the bottle questioningly.

"Sure," Rena said dryly and Leti gave a nervous little laugh, deciding to have a bit herself though this was a first. The kettle began to boil and she went ahead and added brandy to the waiting cups.

George arched a brow at her had she returned the gesture.

"Yes or no," she asked and he gave a short laugh.

"Well it's late so I suppose a nightcap is Alright. And you,Dr?"

"Of course he'll want it," Leti said with a slight eye roll and pored a shot into all 4 cups.

"So you're working for a doctor all of a sudden," George asked.

"I was talkin' to he and his lady, and they are needin' the extra help.? He's willin' to let me learn.? I want to learn. I want more...for both of us."

He shrugged."Alright then."

?

Turning to Henry he asked,"You don't want to find someone already trained, though?"

His expression was more concerned than suspicious.

Leti wondered if he feared she'd be fired if she didn't learn fast enough.

Rena looked amused and hastily glanced away toward the boiling kettle.

Monsters stuck in your head
(We are, we are, we are)
Monsters under your bed

----- Original Message -----

From: Hugin

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, July 6, 2021 3:37 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Out on the London Town, Rena, Henry, Leti

Leti stared at Henry with a vague fixated expression as he spook of the devolution of humans, and one's inner beast. Rena's gaze was on him as well, a hand on his arm, and an openly lustful look in her eyes under the dim street lamp's vague glow.

?

"I never cry as a rule, but these clothes...you try wearing them," rena told Henry, in all seriousness.

Leti sighed and knocked on the door.

"George, it's me," she shouted.

"I forgot my key this morning and a lot has happened, but I'm fine."

?

"Go on and tell all the neighboursabout it, then," he answered, mildly enough, yanking the door open.

The inside of the front room was dim and smelled vaguely?of chicken soup.

"

The young man, a few years older than Leti of average build wore a sleep robe and night cap. Dark red hair peaked from under it and his eyes were brown where Leti's were hazel. His face showed open startlement when he at last caught sight of Henry and rena.

"These are my...friends.? I'm going to start working for Dr. 'Enry," she explained excitedly, pushing her way inside and forcing him to step back.

She gestured Henry and Rena inside before closing the door.

"Would anyone like tea," she asked as her brother gaped, blinking and obviously trying to take it all in.

Monsters stuck in your head
(We are, we are, we are)
Monsters under your bed

"Oh I am well aware. That is why such an explanation never even occurred to me until you suggested it in your not inconsiderable wisdom, Mary Beth.

?

A pity that many of the comforting explanations are not true. After all, if there is one thing the scientific method taught us, is that causality is not the same as correlation," Van Hoff sadly agreed.

?

"I suppose, now that I think of it, most of the practicing members of the club I have seen are in prime condition. If anything, Our patient here found himself on the receiving end of their hospitality. No, you are right, the more I think of it, the less likely it seems," the doctor concluded, abandoning his earlier dry?sarcasm?in favor of?his customarily somber approach.

?

****

?

"But Heidi, is it me he truly seeks to please, or his image of?me? They are leagues apart, you know," Elizabeth objected, unmollified.

?

Her heart was not truly in it, to forgive Victor now. She knew that with certainty. It has cherished him with utter devotion but acknowledged the monster he has become and cast him out, away from itself.

?

It was not going to dwell much on Victor who left it indifferent and preferred to focus on Cylas who made it skip a beat or two.

?

"If only he could restore me to the way I was, but he could not have. He should not have even tried. His guilt, his thoughts of me, they led him astray. I wished for none of it.

?

I would have agreed with him that I saw things as good once, as normal. But I was likely oblivious to the intense pressure he has already begun to experience back then. How could I be so oblivious? I know not. Ask me not. I asked myself often enough and could not come up with a redeeming answer," Elizabeth honestly confided.?

?

???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2021 12:09 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, it would explain quite a bit I suppose, his?being a member of that club, but we cannot come up with such things merely for our own convenience. It will help a lot when we can actually talk to him.

I have heard him speak of you quite often, mistress, Heidi admitted. I think he practically lives to please you, which I would think, is a good thing. Her head lowered sympathetically when Elizabeth talked about what befell?Victor.

The poor man, losing his parents so early and all, he probably still carries guilt from that. It has likely been difficult for him, having lost them, and feeling there was nothing he could have done, yet wishing that there were something he could do. ?Likely many of his experiments are probably to keep that from happening again, but all I know is, in the days when you were…, Absent, he spoke of almost nothing else but bringing you back, and having you back here, with him.


God loves you.

On Wednesday, June 23, 2021, 5:34 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth, I cannot be certain if he is. We have not been told directly, as you know. But I must say, this case has been somewhat unusual and his spouse behaved rather unusually as well.

?

Ordinarily, when the household is so strange, I would suspect a tension, perhaps difficulties within family interaction. Illegitimate heirs, splitting the inheritance, affairs even. But this case is all the more strange because it has the typical symptoms of tension, without direct evidence to any of these factors taking place.

?

I don't pretend to know the truth. But at the same time, I must admit. To some degree, having our patient as member of the club would explain a lot. It would not necessarily suggest a better treatment for, we have done our best at any ate. But it would satisfy my burning curiosity regardless." Van Hoff?readily admitted.

?

?****

"I know it is said so, Heidi dear. But our Victor is a singular man. Might we know with certainty that such ideas apply to him as well. Do you really think he feels that way towards me, because you think he should, or because you know he does, from his own words? There is a difference, you know," Elizabeth sadly objected, though her sadness was not truly at Victor's rejection of her but the fact that he still had to?present an issue even when he was largely absent.

?

"With him? Yes, and no. It was, perhaps, how he was shaped by what befell him. Or perhaps his personality responding to these things that shaped him. His parents died prematurely. They were middle aged both, but he thought, he seemed to think there was some fault that was with him. That he wasn't able to hold time still. That he was not able to help them.

?

It sounds wrong, I suppose, but he thought he could have done more. And he started realizing that some scientific experiments have not been conducted yet. And it as up to him to perform all of them, somehow," Elizabeth reminisced. Almost fondly despite things not seeming quite normal even then, but they were much better in those days compared to now. Well now, that was not true, she had Keres and Cylas, she reminded herself. ?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 14, 2021 4:46 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth looked startled as Van Hoff spoke about the Gentlemans club. Doctor, you don’t think that he…, You don’t think he is a member of such a club, do you? She stepped back a few paces from the bed where Victor was still sleeping, although somewhat fitfully.

Oh no mistress, Heidi was somewhat startled when Elizabeth asked if she thought Victor was weary of her. No I don’t think he is weary of you in the least, I think he very much needs you, as it is said that all men need women far more than they realize, at least while their women are alive.

She nodded when Elizabeth spoke of him chasing some fancy in his own mind. It is one thing for a man to have a hobby, but quite another when he gives up that hobby for the somewhat vain pursuits of the inner workings of his own mind.

And yes it is strange, she continued, but mistress, do you suppose that strangeness originates with him? What I mean is, just as you say we are strange by virtue of his strangeness, by whom, or by whose virtue is he, strange? Where does it all originate? Does it begin with him? I should think surely not. She answered her own question, hoping that she was right.


God loves you.

On Monday, June 14, 2021, 12:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Dear Mary Beth, this is the facade they choose to hide their true goals. And those goals are...odd at best. It is not that I am privy to their conferences. But I have been invited once to attend to most uncharacteristic wounds a club member was suffering from.

?

And, and there is a strange odor at all times, too pervasive to ignore. As you know, I am well accustomed to...all manner of sickness, but what the so called gentlemen have been doing, is best described as a strange experiment. I am at a loss to describe precisely what I suspect, but if I were you, I would not trust the cultured veneer of the club," Van Hoff uncomfortably confided. ???

?

Elizabeth sadly nodded her understanding and sympathy with Heidi's almost unexpected confession. "I feel my old friends have the same idea of me. In truth, I feel as if Victor's antics reflect on all of us. We have become strange by virtue of his strangeness. As if it in itself can affect us all somehow. How passing strange it is.

?

?

Yes, I certainly hope he will. I would rather he did not chase some fancy?inside of his own mind, choosing it over the more practical domestic bliss, especially if, I, representing the said bliss,?wearied his imaginative soul with my practicality. So you don't think he is weary of me then? How intriguing. Well, I am sure there will be a man who will give you exactly?what you deserve, Heidi.

?

I do believe there is one for each of us, and it can be a matter of time before we meet them,?" Elizabeth?spoke, secretly?hinting at?herself and Cylas as much as Heidi's destiny.

?

She may not?have been able to state her wishes directly, but the implication alone, made her feel more somehow. She had so much more to offer. Be so much more than a mere failed experiment. There were people out there who would appreciate her new?essential nature, even if the?misbegotten Victor no longer could.????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2021 12:09 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, it would explain quite a bit I suppose, his?being a member of that club, but we cannot come up with such things merely for our own convenience. It will help a lot when we can actually talk to him.

I have heard him speak of you quite often, mistress, Heidi admitted. I think he practically lives to please you, which I would think, is a good thing. Her head lowered sympathetically when Elizabeth talked about what befell?Victor.

The poor man, losing his parents so early and all, he probably still carries guilt from that. It has likely been difficult for him, having lost them, and feeling there was nothing he could have done, yet wishing that there were something he could do. ?Likely many of his experiments are probably to keep that from happening again, but all I know is, in the days when you were…, Absent, he spoke of almost nothing else but bringing you back, and having you back here, with him.


God loves you.

On Wednesday, June 23, 2021, 5:34 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth, I cannot be certain if he is. We have not been told directly, as you know. But I must say, this case has been somewhat unusual and his spouse behaved rather unusually as well.

?

Ordinarily, when the household is so strange, I would suspect a tension, perhaps difficulties within family interaction. Illegitimate heirs, splitting the inheritance, affairs even. But this case is all the more strange because it has the typical symptoms of tension, without direct evidence to any of these factors taking place.

?

I don't pretend to know the truth. But at the same time, I must admit. To some degree, having our patient as member of the club would explain a lot. It would not necessarily suggest a better treatment for, we have done our best at any ate. But it would satisfy my burning curiosity regardless." Van Hoff?readily admitted.

?

?****

"I know it is said so, Heidi dear. But our Victor is a singular man. Might we know with certainty that such ideas apply to him as well. Do you really think he feels that way towards me, because you think he should, or because you know he does, from his own words? There is a difference, you know," Elizabeth sadly objected, though her sadness was not truly at Victor's rejection of her but the fact that he still had to?present an issue even when he was largely absent.

?

"With him? Yes, and no. It was, perhaps, how he was shaped by what befell him. Or perhaps his personality responding to these things that shaped him. His parents died prematurely. They were middle aged both, but he thought, he seemed to think there was some fault that was with him. That he wasn't able to hold time still. That he was not able to help them.

?

It sounds wrong, I suppose, but he thought he could have done more. And he started realizing that some scientific experiments have not been conducted yet. And it as up to him to perform all of them, somehow," Elizabeth reminisced. Almost fondly despite things not seeming quite normal even then, but they were much better in those days compared to now. Well now, that was not true, she had Keres and Cylas, she reminded herself. ?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 14, 2021 4:46 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth looked startled as Van Hoff spoke about the Gentlemans club. Doctor, you don’t think that he…, You don’t think he is a member of such a club, do you? She stepped back a few paces from the bed where Victor was still sleeping, although somewhat fitfully.

Oh no mistress, Heidi was somewhat startled when Elizabeth asked if she thought Victor was weary of her. No I don’t think he is weary of you in the least, I think he very much needs you, as it is said that all men need women far more than they realize, at least while their women are alive.

She nodded when Elizabeth spoke of him chasing some fancy in his own mind. It is one thing for a man to have a hobby, but quite another when he gives up that hobby for the somewhat vain pursuits of the inner workings of his own mind.

And yes it is strange, she continued, but mistress, do you suppose that strangeness originates with him? What I mean is, just as you say we are strange by virtue of his strangeness, by whom, or by whose virtue is he, strange? Where does it all originate? Does it begin with him? I should think surely not. She answered her own question, hoping that she was right.


God loves you.

On Monday, June 14, 2021, 12:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Dear Mary Beth, this is the facade they choose to hide their true goals. And those goals are...odd at best. It is not that I am privy to their conferences. But I have been invited once to attend to most uncharacteristic wounds a club member was suffering from.

?

And, and there is a strange odor at all times, too pervasive to ignore. As you know, I am well accustomed to...all manner of sickness, but what the so called gentlemen have been doing, is best described as a strange experiment. I am at a loss to describe precisely what I suspect, but if I were you, I would not trust the cultured veneer of the club," Van Hoff uncomfortably confided. ???

?

Elizabeth sadly nodded her understanding and sympathy with Heidi's almost unexpected confession. "I feel my old friends have the same idea of me. In truth, I feel as if Victor's antics reflect on all of us. We have become strange by virtue of his strangeness. As if it in itself can affect us all somehow. How passing strange it is.

?

?

Yes, I certainly hope he will. I would rather he did not chase some fancy?inside of his own mind, choosing it over the more practical domestic bliss, especially if, I, representing the said bliss,?wearied his imaginative soul with my practicality. So you don't think he is weary of me then? How intriguing. Well, I am sure there will be a man who will give you exactly?what you deserve, Heidi.

?

I do believe there is one for each of us, and it can be a matter of time before we meet them,?" Elizabeth?spoke, secretly?hinting at?herself and Cylas as much as Heidi's destiny.

?

She may not?have been able to state her wishes directly, but the implication alone, made her feel more somehow. She had so much more to offer. Be so much more than a mere failed experiment. There were people out there who would appreciate her new?essential nature, even if the?misbegotten Victor no longer could.????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

On Wednesday, June 23, 2021, 5:34 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth, I cannot be certain if he is. We have not been told directly, as you know. But I must say, this case has been somewhat unusual and his spouse behaved rather unusually as well.

?

Ordinarily, when the household is so strange, I would suspect a tension, perhaps difficulties within family interaction. Illegitimate heirs, splitting the inheritance, affairs even. But this case is all the more strange because it has the typical symptoms of tension, without direct evidence to any of these factors taking place.

?

I don't pretend to know the truth. But at the same time, I must admit. To some degree, having our patient as member of the club would explain a lot. It would not necessarily suggest a better treatment for, we have done our best at any ate. But it would satisfy my burning curiosity regardless." Van Hoff?readily admitted.

?

?****

"I know it is said so, Heidi dear. But our Victor is a singular man. Might we know with certainty that such ideas apply to him as well. Do you really think he feels that way towards me, because you think he should, or because you know he does, from his own words? There is a difference, you know," Elizabeth sadly objected, though her sadness was not truly at Victor's rejection of her but the fact that he still had to?present an issue even when he was largely absent.

?

"With him? Yes, and no. It was, perhaps, how he was shaped by what befell him. Or perhaps his personality responding to these things that shaped him. His parents died prematurely. They were middle aged both, but he thought, he seemed to think there was some fault that was with him. That he wasn't able to hold time still. That he was not able to help them.

?

It sounds wrong, I suppose, but he thought he could have done more. And he started realizing that some scientific experiments have not been conducted yet. And it as up to him to perform all of them, somehow," Elizabeth reminisced. Almost fondly despite things not seeming quite normal even then, but they were much better in those days compared to now. Well now, that was not true, she had Keres and Cylas, she reminded herself. ?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 14, 2021 4:46 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth looked startled as Van Hoff spoke about the Gentlemans club. Doctor, you don’t think that he…, You don’t think he is a member of such a club, do you? She stepped back a few paces from the bed where Victor was still sleeping, although somewhat fitfully.

Oh no mistress, Heidi was somewhat startled when Elizabeth asked if she thought Victor was weary of her. No I don’t think he is weary of you in the least, I think he very much needs you, as it is said that all men need women far more than they realize, at least while their women are alive.

She nodded when Elizabeth spoke of him chasing some fancy in his own mind. It is one thing for a man to have a hobby, but quite another when he gives up that hobby for the somewhat vain pursuits of the inner workings of his own mind.

And yes it is strange, she continued, but mistress, do you suppose that strangeness originates with him? What I mean is, just as you say we are strange by virtue of his strangeness, by whom, or by whose virtue is he, strange? Where does it all originate? Does it begin with him? I should think surely not. She answered her own question, hoping that she was right.


God loves you.

On Monday, June 14, 2021, 12:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Dear Mary Beth, this is the facade they choose to hide their true goals. And those goals are...odd at best. It is not that I am privy to their conferences. But I have been invited once to attend to most uncharacteristic wounds a club member was suffering from.

?

And, and there is a strange odor at all times, too pervasive to ignore. As you know, I am well accustomed to...all manner of sickness, but what the so called gentlemen have been doing, is best described as a strange experiment. I am at a loss to describe precisely what I suspect, but if I were you, I would not trust the cultured veneer of the club," Van Hoff uncomfortably confided. ???

?

Elizabeth sadly nodded her understanding and sympathy with Heidi's almost unexpected confession. "I feel my old friends have the same idea of me. In truth, I feel as if Victor's antics reflect on all of us. We have become strange by virtue of his strangeness. As if it in itself can affect us all somehow. How passing strange it is.

?

?

Yes, I certainly hope he will. I would rather he did not chase some fancy?inside of his own mind, choosing it over the more practical domestic bliss, especially if, I, representing the said bliss,?wearied his imaginative soul with my practicality. So you don't think he is weary of me then? How intriguing. Well, I am sure there will be a man who will give you exactly?what you deserve, Heidi.

?

I do believe there is one for each of us, and it can be a matter of time before we meet them,?" Elizabeth?spoke, secretly?hinting at?herself and Cylas as much as Heidi's destiny.

?

She may not?have been able to state her wishes directly, but the implication alone, made her feel more somehow. She had so much more to offer. Be so much more than a mere failed experiment. There were people out there who would appreciate her new?essential nature, even if the?misbegotten Victor no longer could.????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, June 14, 2021 4:46 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth looked startled as Van Hoff spoke about the Gentlemans club. Doctor, you don’t think that he…, You don’t think he is a member of such a club, do you? She stepped back a few paces from the bed where Victor was still sleeping, although somewhat fitfully.

Oh no mistress, Heidi was somewhat startled when Elizabeth asked if she thought Victor was weary of her. No I don’t think he is weary of you in the least, I think he very much needs you, as it is said that all men need women far more than they realize, at least while their women are alive.

She nodded when Elizabeth spoke of him chasing some fancy in his own mind. It is one thing for a man to have a hobby, but quite another when he gives up that hobby for the somewhat vain pursuits of the inner workings of his own mind.

And yes it is strange, she continued, but mistress, do you suppose that strangeness originates with him? What I mean is, just as you say we are strange by virtue of his strangeness, by whom, or by whose virtue is he, strange? Where does it all originate? Does it begin with him? I should think surely not. She answered her own question, hoping that she was right.


God loves you.

On Monday, June 14, 2021, 12:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Dear Mary Beth, this is the facade they choose to hide their true goals. And those goals are...odd at best. It is not that I am privy to their conferences. But I have been invited once to attend to most uncharacteristic wounds a club member was suffering from.

?

And, and there is a strange odor at all times, too pervasive to ignore. As you know, I am well accustomed to...all manner of sickness, but what the so called gentlemen have been doing, is best described as a strange experiment. I am at a loss to describe precisely what I suspect, but if I were you, I would not trust the cultured veneer of the club," Van Hoff uncomfortably confided. ???

?

Elizabeth sadly nodded her understanding and sympathy with Heidi's almost unexpected confession. "I feel my old friends have the same idea of me. In truth, I feel as if Victor's antics reflect on all of us. We have become strange by virtue of his strangeness. As if it in itself can affect us all somehow. How passing strange it is.

?

?

Yes, I certainly hope he will. I would rather he did not chase some fancy?inside of his own mind, choosing it over the more practical domestic bliss, especially if, I, representing the said bliss,?wearied his imaginative soul with my practicality. So you don't think he is weary of me then? How intriguing. Well, I am sure there will be a man who will give you exactly?what you deserve, Heidi.

?

I do believe there is one for each of us, and it can be a matter of time before we meet them,?" Elizabeth?spoke, secretly?hinting at?herself and Cylas as much as Heidi's destiny.

?

She may not?have been able to state her wishes directly, but the implication alone, made her feel more somehow. She had so much more to offer. Be so much more than a mere failed experiment. There were people out there who would appreciate her new?essential nature, even if the?misbegotten Victor no longer could.????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

From: Hugin

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, June 9, 2021 2:28 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Out on the London Town, Rena, Henry, Leti

?

?

?

Leti listened to Henry speak of Victor and his feelings and opinions on the man in open fascination.

"You are something else, Dr. 'Enry.? You know that?"

She chuckled, giving her head a baffled shake.

"But I like your observations. They seem right."

Rena had listened to Henry speak about Victor with a small amused smile on her lips.? She lit with interest when he spoke of wanting something from the dream demons.

"What is it," she demanded eagerly when he suddenly switched the topic to Leti's brother.

"He won't need to be told a story,"Leti said with a shrug.

"It's easier to tell him like it is...minus the vampire and dream demons and time travel, that is," she added, then wondered how much of the bloody story would be left. Well mostly the parts her brother would care about, being her working for Dr. Henry and living with him.

?

?

?

"I suppose I won't make a good lady's maid but I'd better help Rena anyway, cause other people won't understand her crying over her clothes every day."

?

"I won't cry every day," Rena grumbled as they got down from the cab. Again she allowed Henry to assist her, mainly to be close to him, but also because the stupid dress made it hard to climb or jump down without hurting the stupid thing.

?

?

?

Leti moved up to the front door first and realizing she'd left her key when she'd slipped out in the morning, she knocked.

?

Monsters stuck in your head
(We are, we are, we are)
Monsters under your bed

On Monday, June 14, 2021, 12:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Dear Mary Beth, this is the facade they choose to hide their true goals. And those goals are...odd at best. It is not that I am privy to their conferences. But I have been invited once to attend to most uncharacteristic wounds a club member was suffering from.

?

And, and there is a strange odor at all times, too pervasive to ignore. As you know, I am well accustomed to...all manner of sickness, but what the so called gentlemen have been doing, is best described as a strange experiment. I am at a loss to describe precisely what I suspect, but if I were you, I would not trust the cultured veneer of the club," Van Hoff uncomfortably confided. ???

?

Elizabeth sadly nodded her understanding and sympathy with Heidi's almost unexpected confession. "I feel my old friends have the same idea of me. In truth, I feel as if Victor's antics reflect on all of us. We have become strange by virtue of his strangeness. As if it in itself can affect us all somehow. How passing strange it is.

?

?

Yes, I certainly hope he will. I would rather he did not chase some fancy?inside of his own mind, choosing it over the more practical domestic bliss, especially if, I, representing the said bliss,?wearied his imaginative soul with my practicality. So you don't think he is weary of me then? How intriguing. Well, I am sure there will be a man who will give you exactly?what you deserve, Heidi.

?

I do believe there is one for each of us, and it can be a matter of time before we meet them,?" Elizabeth?spoke, secretly?hinting at?herself and Cylas as much as Heidi's destiny.

?

She may not?have been able to state her wishes directly, but the implication alone, made her feel more somehow. She had so much more to offer. Be so much more than a mere failed experiment. There were people out there who would appreciate her new?essential nature, even if the?misbegotten Victor no longer could.????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Tuesday, June 1, 2021 11:18 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth had started to turn away, but then gave VanHoff?a sudden look of shock and surprise. Gentlemans club? Doctor, what is this thing of which you speak? It sounds as if it is merely men trying to learn to be more…, She chose her words carefully now, cultured, or gentlemanly if you will. But you speak of it as if it is a menace.?What?

Heidi was not sure what to think of Elizabeth’s fluctuating moods. She looked down when asked about female friends. Not really mistress, she admitted, sounding rather uncomfortable with the subject. Mostly they just think I’m strange or something.

I’m certain he will feel better, mistress, Heidi replied when she stated that Victor would feel better and would be more able to ascertain who was beautiful, worthy and strong. But I am certain that he quite already sees you that way, Heidi reminded Elizabeth. She looked surprised at the mention of him loving someone more docile. I don’t see how that could be possible mistress, I think he loves you in as much as is??humanly possible for him, and yet I see that love doing nought but growing as the years unfold for the two of you. ?I could only dream of a man to love me half as much, she continued, although, I suppose all men like to be above their women at least some of the time.

God loves you.

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

----- Original Message -----

From: Hugin

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, May 27, 2021 2:06 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Out on the London Town, Rena, Henry, Leti

Leti giggled, the sound uncharacteristic but obviously one she couldn't suppress.

"You really hate him," she said of Victor, hazel eyes sparkling with amusement as she shook her head at the doctor.

When he mentioned the vampire being violent, one hand dropped to her other wrist, where he'd grasped her the night before.

?

Rena's expression remained serious and thoughtful.

"Sorry. No he's not a character. Frank is my grandfather. Quite real. The story was given to Mrs. Shelly through the dream demons, Damons rather, whom my family works for and from whom we gain our power.? As for how to punch someone in a dream if they move, you move first. You will yourself to appear where least expected. You change the scenery."

She sighed, frustration growing.

"I would offer to show you, but I can't dram here...Not a good thing, not a thing I am easy with and not a thing I can explain."

She bit her lip.

"And trust me were I lying I'd make up something better than that which I could likely prove."

"You've proved enough," Leti said, meaning it.

Rena couldn't help but grin at the red head's open?implication that she perhaps couldn't take more proving at the moment.

?

Rena allowed herself to enjoy the cosy warmth of the cab, and not to focus of fears or worries.? Instead she allowed herself to wonder what Leti's brother would be like.? When the cab drew up to a small house in a block of small tightly placed similar houses.? There was only one lone light on in a window, causing Leti to frown.

"He'll be reading...likely ready to sleep.? He won't be pleased I'm here so late with company but what can one do?"

She sighed as they got down, and asked the driver to wait.

?

Monsters stuck in your head
(We are, we are, we are)
Monsters under your bed

On Monday, May 31, 2021, 12:56 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff suddenly wondered, in spite of himself. "Did you ever per chance entered this odd house in the neighborhood, the so called Gentlemen Club?

?

If you haven't, I strongly suggest that you steer clear of them, no matter the reason offered to enter," the doctor suddenly concluded, uncomfortable with his own chain of associations.

?

He didn't even know how he wondered off, from thinking of his assistant having a witchy blood, to warning her about a vague kind of danger, based on rumors alone. Persistent rumors, to be sure, of the goings on that the so called gentlemen were reputedly guilty of, but he was a man of science. It?was very odd he had to keep reminding himself of that lately, so very recently, after the arrival of the new patient in his household. A mere coincidence, he reminded himself, experiencing a sudden chill.

?

"I'll need to ask Bethany to make?it warmer in here," Van Hoff muttered out loud, favoring a rational explanation of his experience, over any other, as, he felt, any good doctor should.

?

***

"An inner strength? In me? Oh dearest Heidi, I never even knew. That you felt that way. I never thought anybody else noticed. Victor, well the poor dear was far too busy with more important matters," Elizabeth bitterly hedged around the painful issue.

?

"I thought only my new friend finally understood. Oh Heidi, the joy of having female friends. Do you have any? If not, I strongly suggest to have them. It can be so refreshing, to be seen with an unjaundiced eye. By somebody who understands. I have never been regarded fairly.." Elizabeth considered broodingly.

?

"But of course, all of this will change," the young woman darkly promised, then realizing her words had the power of a threat, mended them with an unassuming, if unnatural sounding chuckle.

?

"I mean, because Victor will feel better, obviously. And then he would be able to be more objective.?About who is beautiful, who is worthy. Who is...strong," Elizabeth suggested, her unnatural chuckle subsiding into another tone of menace. She could not have even imagined how Heidi would take such fluctuations in?her mood.

?

But Keres was right. She no longer needed to hide herself. It was easy to forget. Slip into habits of?self enforced mediocrity. But it was easier overall to remain herself, and this she vowed to herself she would be.

?

"Well, Victor...yes. It is not so much a matter of freedom," Elizabeth's dark mood?turned into a thoughtful one in response to a valid concern.

?

"I just...didn't think. I suppose I thought I had no choice on the matter. Victor's love, he has such strong feelings for many people in his life. Some women outside of this household told me he can be very cold or quite passionate in his dealings, as I have discovered. He loves me? Well, he could, at that, We were not a bad couple before Victor got distracted," Elizabeth admitted sadly, her general estimate never tainted with inappropriate sentimentality nonetheless.

?

"His love is odd. I feel sometimes that he only likes me because his family...treated me as well as it did, I suppose.?He likes to be above me. But would he not settle for somebody more, docile? Or even somebody who knows how to get along? I know not. Sometimes I think he could even fancy you and Abby," Elizabeth admitted non chalantly.

?

She felt mildly uncomfortable, but at times, revealing truths about herself?could lead to her being able to ascertain more accurately where any of her staff?stood. ????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 26, 2021 9:50 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Mary Beth nodded, very well Doctor, she looked amazed that the doctor was indeed following her suggestions. After all, she thought to herself, who am I to be giving such suggestions as these?

Heidi blushed at Elizabeth’s complement, also watching the cheeks of her mistress, wondering to herself why she, was also blushing? ?she quickly jotted down the title of the book, yes I will tell Abby right away, as soon as I see her in fact, Heidi replied.

As for strength and all of that, she continued, I have always admired you, mistress, for I have always seen a kind of inner strength in you. A quiet boldness, a rather meek sort of personality, but one which has much buried underneath it. I have always admired you for this as I have said, and I’ve always secretly wished I could be like that. ?for instants it has always amazed me that you let master Victor have such freedom to do…, Well whatever it is that he does. Many women would be hanging all over their husbands, begging for the smallest scraps and crumbs of affection from them, but not you. Yet for all of that, he loves you.


God loves you.

On Monday, April 26, 2021, 1:12 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Excellent, I shall order some right away," Van Hoff agreed, marveling at himself. There was in truth something odd about him needing guidance from his own assistant, her charms utterly irrelevant to the unusual situation.

?

If he were not a man of science, he would have considered some witchery in her blood line, and yet, whatever was the case, he did feel natural following her ideas that began to seem as good if not better than his own.?

?

"A...loner. You have such uniquely gifted words to describe your Master, Heidi," Elizabeth allowed with a small smile at her own private thoughts.

?

Her mind easily suggested the images of a maniacal Victor to her. In the privacy of the basement, laughing, no maybe giggling maniacally, she had conceived of it, was a more appropriate visualization.

?

Maniacal laughter, bodies at his feet, tubes, jars and always a mysterious force barely having space to wedge itself between?visible and the unseen, coaxed out of its slumber through his deviltry. Loner indeed.

?

"And yet,?you are not wrong. Victor was...is, unaccustomed to visitors. Rest assured, I shall help you learn the new skills. We women have the strength?and adaptability that men can only envy. Even such singular men like Victor. You'll see, you will get the?feel for it?shortly," Elizabeth reassured distractedly.

?

The image of the maniacal Victor, bringing more fever to her forehead, more, bizarrely, blushing, to her cheeks. Could it be somehow because of Cylas? Elizabeth knew not, but did not hate the thought.

?

"Have Abby order a book with instructions for you. I recall there was some treatise of this kind penned by a lady Jasmine Wenworth, everything a young woman needs to know about dutiful preparations for a popular dinner, I believe it was called," Elizabeth considered, the precise wording of the title eluding her, but the approximation, hopefully serving to help in this new enterprise.

?

??

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, April 12, 2021 8:47 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I am most certain that we would need supplements of some sort, Doctor, Mary Beth replied. After all he is not eating really, we are going to need some sort of vitamins or the like.

Heidi did her best not to look alarmed. Yes one of those magazines would likely be most helpful, and we may need more staff, on a temporary basis as you say. Regretfully I have had limited experience in party planning, as master Victor never really was that sort of man. He has always been more of a loner as such.

It sounded to Heidi now as if she herself, had been the one wanting the party, and that Elizabeth was the generous benefactor, promising her that they would make it happen. But for her own part, Heidi really did not care much if there was a party or not. She wasn’t that much into all that sort of thing herself, and never really remembered the mistress of the house being so.

She nodded, with a resigned, yes mistress, to Elizabeth’s reassurance that they would make the party happen someway.

Heidi felt as if she were being somehow pulled along, increasingly deeper into a strange, dark morass of,?she knew not what. And yet, she saw no way to turn back, not without losing her job.


God loves you.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, 12:55 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Oh rest assured, Heidi, it won't be a problem in the least. Feel free to hire experts and their services. Or Abby can. Either way, I shall supply resources and opportunities for both of you. The local market ought to have a great variety of cooks, as well as meal ideas.

?

I could also...procure one of these fancy magazines. For the Home and Heart or some such. I want to say I have seen one like it recently at a friend's house. Somebody out there ought to know what would make a grand party. We shall make it happen, my dear. One way, or another," Elizabeth promised confidently.

?

"And it shall be within two weeks? Do you think you can manage? We can hire more staff if need be. On a temporary basis, of course," Elizabeth generously suggested, not at all perturbed by the?financial expenditure. For all she knew, all of Victor's money was covered in blood anyway, and she only wanted to use as much of it?as she needed. No more, and certainly no less.

?

"An excellent idea, Mary Beth," Dr Van Hoff ponderously nodded. Recalling what the great Mesmer spoke of liquids. Claims he has not yet ascertained himself until he perused the treatise by James Esdaile. "Do you think we would need further supplements, if the patient reaches a critical point where no liquids are helpful? You don't have to answer right away. If you think of something, please let Ludwig know. I shall send him to check on your needs every now and then," Van Hoff helpfully offered.?

----- Original Message -----

From: Ishamael Moridin via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2021 10:31 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Ludwig nodded at Mary Beth's request, with a smile he thought should pass for polite under most kinds of scrutiny, considering that it would natural for his normal bearings.

?

People have come to expect some gruffness from him and he rather enjoyed. Bethany did not mind the gruff exterior, and when he showered her with affection, the contrast was always in his favor, which to his mind, was the main thing he would have in his favor.

?

A good thing Bethany was not too picky, or else it probably would not be enough for her, but it was, by all lucky stars. Just thinking of that, mad his smile that much broader.

?

"Should we get something for the patient, do you think?" Dr Van Hoff wondered, half talking to himself as if entertaining a heavy dilemma. "We have injected a few substances, but I really did believe by this point he would try some solid food as well. How unfortunate, that he didn't.?It is your impression that?he would appreciate some Oriental food? We have all the necessities here but...oh well, probably less relevant at present," the doctor spoke with a distracted kind of regret.

?

****

Elizabeth nodded in satisfaction. "Well done. Now we just need to get ready. So many things to have done. Sitting arrangements, flower arrangements, not to mention a proper meal that would not shame people of higher station.

?

I swear, so much to be done. But I suppose," the young mistress of the house tiredly rubbed at her eyes, the motion of her right hand getting slower.

?

"We can do some?preparations at a later stage. You may retire now," she graciously allowed, realizing she could still catch up on some sleep.

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Friday, March 19, 2021 6:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

I suppose I am rather famished, Mary Beth reluctantly admitted, then she turned to the footman and kindly inquired, please bring me some of the Oriental food when you have time? She took another look at the patient, thank the powers, he seem to be sleeping at present, the argument at least for the moment, subsided.

Heidi feverishly wrote, R, E, N, f...,?Soon all the names mentioned by Elizabeth were neatly written down, row upon row. Very well mistress, I will get these sent away to the appropriate recipients as soon as possible; meanwhile, will there?be anything else?


God loves you.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 3:08 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Well, my dear Mary Beth. After a very short time, you already seem to know more than either Ludwig or I. I am grateful that you have chosen to work with me, I really am. In the mean time, would you perhaps be interested in some fortifications?

?

Our cook had a few experiments lately, something inspired by her encounter with Oriental men. I am sure she would be delighted to let you try it out. And Ludwig would be only too happy to bring it to you, just ask him for anything. Isn't it right Ludwig?"

?

Van Hoff eagerly inquired, making the footman grunted in acknowledgment. Ludwig supposed his time could be spent better with Bethany, but it won't do to mention that, he?knew better than to argue with the Master.?

?

*

"I think...it is pronounced Renfield. Yes, that sounds right," Elizabeth mused, remembering Keres mentioning a few names, some of them all mixed up in her head just then.

?

She distinctly remembered her new friend talking about several people, but precisely which needed to be invited was beyond her.?Nonetheless, Elizabeth supposed there would be no harm done in including a few more people.?What was a good party after all, if not for meeting many promising people.

?

"I think, there was somebody else, but as I cannot remember them yet, it can wait. We will start with those, dear Heidi," Elizabeth happily suggested, all the more gracious for her words were not called into doubt, did not seem to garner any objections or require clarifications. She consequently ?felt pleased with Heidi, their earlier exchange notwithstanding.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 9:48 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Thank you Doctor, Mary Beth replied with a smile. How could she resist, especially when he called her such endearing names. He…, He appeared earlier to be having some sort of argument, I would surmise that perhaps it is with his wife, apparently some sort of struggle had been going on before hand, although of course I am not sure of the subject matter of this. That’s about all I know for now. But I will try to listen later when he awakens, assuming of course, that he is coherent enough for me to hear and understand what he is??saying.

Heidi quickly took out parchment and Quill, and began writing. Rena…, And, Henry…, Hide, from London. All right, I have those names, she stated, wondering where the mistress had met these people, seeing as she did not know them. Next please?

She held the quill,?poised to write the next names.


God loves you.

On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:53 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"I was wondering about that, but could not glean what he is saying. Can you, dearest Mary Beth? Rest assured, it is no requirement. You have been indispensable to all of us," Van Hoff sincerely complimented.

****

"Oh good," Elizabeth muttered distractedly, subsiding more comfortably into her bed, relieved that she did not need to explain herself further.

?

"So, the names are..." the young woman started, paused for a second to consider and continued, as the names flowed into her mind. Even trying to think of where she knew them from, made her entire body shudder from head to toe with increased fever. While not thinking about it, allowed her body to relax instead.

?

"The names are...Rena and Henry Hyde...from...London, no less," Elizabeth concluded, with an embarrassed chuckle. She did not know if the girl would voice an objection, and fervently wished she would keep such objections to herself. As Elizabeth had no strength, nor inclination, to argue about that.

?

?

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Sunday, March 7, 2021 12:24 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Marybeth nodded, I’ll do all I can doctor. She turned her attention to the patient then, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. They’re there now, there now, Mr. Victor, everything is going to be all right. He struggled, but gradually began to calm down, she turned back to VAN Hoff, he appears to be having some sort of a mental argument with someone.

Heidi also blinked, a party, mistress? Yes sure I know how to prepare for a party, but I will need the names of those whom you wish to invite, so that I may send out the proper invitations. And you have a feeling that he’s going to be well soon? Well that is wonderful, I am??most certain you??will be glad to have him?back with you again. She looked concerned however, that he might not be quite well enough to attend a party yet.

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, 11:09 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

"Heidi. I know it is late a bit..." Elizabeth passed a tired hand over her feverish feeling forehead, right below the comfortingly loosened hair.

?

She realized with a start that perhaps her idea might not find immediate understanding with the occasionally obtuse girl.

?

"You see, Heidi. I know it may sound strange, but I have a feeling...that Victor will be well soon," Elizabeth prevaricated, clutching onto a semblance of something reasonable even if she did not care one bit how Victor? felt.

?

"And he will need to be cheered up. You must start making preparations for a party, as soon as you can. I trust you know how," Elizabeth remembered to inquired, blinking her eyes furiously as if in an effort to chase away a dark mirage?from her dreams.

?

It was trying to intrude into her conscious mind, but she resolved to not let it show. At least as much as possible. And with it being suprisingly shapeless, more like a voice incessantly demanding from her to do something,?she hoped she had a good chance at succeeding to banish it entirely.

****

"Yes Mary Beth, I called for you. I am sorry to have bothered you so soon, but as you can see, the patient can find no respite and he needs to sleep peacefully enough for full recovery.

?

Being fully sedated as he is, I am reluctant to give him anything stronger, lest it affects him?in unpredictable ways. I was hoping it would be a woman's gentle touch that is necessary to put him at ease. Yours especially, because of your soothing presence," Van Hoff explained his decision, some regret at?disturbing his assistant evident in his voice.???

?

?????

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2021 1:05 PM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

As the argument in Victor’s dream continued, Mary Beth was soon on the scene. You called for me, Doctor? She began speaking to and making shushing noises to Victor, trying her best to soothe him. There?there now, it’s going to be all right. I’m certain your dear wife will come to see you soon, for now, you must get some much-needed rest. Her voice proved to be quite helpful. She also tried to hold a sponge with warm milk to his lips. He was able to swallow some, and this also seemed to have a soporific effect on him. Soon, he was sleeping once more. Heidi was soon knocking softly on Elizabeth’s door. Once inside, she bowed and asked, you sent for me, mistress? What is your bidding this night?

God loves you.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 11:28 PM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Elizabeth found her body getting restless She had to do Something. Right now. It just seemed imperative.

?

"Abby, Abby, where are you? I need you. You must fetch Heidi back. We have an urgent party to attend. Abby? No I am not asleep. I don't think," Elizabeth reassured with a shaky smile.

?

****

Dr Van Hoff carefully regarded the patient, trying to move him to a better side, with the intention to have him relaxed and go back to sleep. It seemed to have worked for a second, but then the argument continued.

?

"I cannot keep doing this all night," Van Hoff muttered and though he could not swear to it, he found himself surprised at possibly hearing Ludwig agreeing with him.

?

"How long has Mary?Beth been asleep? I worry that?she does not get enough, yet she has such a nice touch.?With the patient of course, is what I mean. Perhaps she can succeed where I cannot.?But I fear it is imperative for the patient's recovery that he gets good sleep. Ludwig, can you check with Mary Beth if she is able to resume her duties now,?with myself akin the next shift?

?

By then I will have studied everything I was supposed to have learned about possible solutions. Thank you Ludwig, there is a good chap," Van Hoff complimented not truly waiting for the man to offer any kind of an answer.???

----- Original Message -----

From: Sandy Hargrove via groups.io

To: [email protected]

Sent: Monday, February 22, 2021 10:00 AM

Subject: Re: [A-Twist-Of-Fate] Sweet Dreams

Victor had indeed been tossing and turning in his sleep, or lack there of, whichever One might choose to call it.?in his dream, he had seen Elizabeth, laughing, looking happy, but taunting him, even as she ignored him. He had also heard her accusing him of, something, ?though?he could not figure out what. ?his argument was of course, highly intelligible, sounding like the moans of a very ill patient, but in the dream, in his own mind he was saying, I was never unfaithful to you with anyone. He was telling her that she had basically no right to accuse him of such ridiculous occurrences.

In his dream, he seemed to hear her planning something, but what it was he did not know. He could only assume it had something to do with the ghost of a memory playing at the edges of his mind, some sort of activity, some sort of, party? What had?they been planning. He wondered, the pain and chills were coming back to him, as was the fever. It had left for a while but was now rampant in him again.


God loves you.

On Sunday, February 21, 2021, 1:03 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:

Dr Van Hoff has been perusing an intriguing volume by James Esdaile, which despite containing numerous discoveries of the mind and the?body connections, read at times as a fantastical novel with the protagonist who happened to be a medical explorer of sorts.

?

Carefully observing the peculiar table of correspondences between a Hindu acolyte's sleep cycle and the perceived physical injury painstakingly described by Esdaile, Van Hoff started wondering if he began noticing a?pattern or if he was merely seeing one due to his own physical fatigue.

?

At least there was something useful at any rate about the Dark God's?priests and their unusual healing methods, Esdaile was as right about those as he was about the permanent ways in which the acolytes of the Dark Goddess solved their problems.

?

The heavy steps?in the library instantly drew his attention away from the fascinating treatise. The foot man?was a bigger man than most, rumors circulating of his one time?participation in the boxing ring and the general interest in pugilism, which to Van Hoff's mind was a welcome addition?to the household and its sense of unassailable safety.

?

Before he had to cajole the man into speaking, as was their way, Ludwig unexpectedly volunteered his own explanation.

?

""It's the patient, M'Lord. He is moving in his sleep, turning, as if in pain and talking to somebody. I could not make it out, but?me thought he was arguing," Ludwig added.?

?

Unsurprised by his lack of details, as well as by his inappropriate?form of address that Van Hoff had tried to eradicate, since he was not Nobility, not even minor one, the doctor motioned for the footman to lead him on.

?

He could have found the room easily himself, but every time he ignored propriety with Ludwig, the man was going to be worse the next time, as Van Hoff well knew.?

?

****

Elizabeth did not sleep as soundly as she had expected that night. Something kept nagging at her, and though she could not remember exactly what, when she woke up, her mind starting planning a party of its?volition.

?

It was dark, and she did not want to think about it, and thought Victor would not be?in good?shape for her to plan a party, but she was not able to stop herself. Going over and?over the details ahead of time, and smiling in anticipation of the pleasant introductions to new friends that were sure?to?follow.?????????