|
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.?????????
|
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.?????????
|
?
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 -----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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.?????????
|
?
"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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
?
"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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
?
"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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
?
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
By now, Heidi was looking noticeably tired. Thank you mistress, she told her, I will work on some of these invitations, then retire for a while, then rise to complete the work as much as I can. I must admit however, I am a little less skilled on meals for parties. I don’t recall the master ever throwing them that much, he always said they were rather, how did he put it, frivolous, and a waste of valuable resources yes, that is how he said it. He stated that money could be much better spent, which is why I am surprised to learn that you love parties so much. Oh and by the way, when do you want this party?
If I may say so, Doctor, Mary Beth began, I think that we should keep him on liquids for now, until we can get him fully awake enough to sit up on his own, we have sat him up before, so that he can drink liquids, but I really think now that we should wait on solid foods until he is fully awake and able to support himself. This man is very ill.
God loves you.
On Tuesday, March 23, 2021, 12:31 AM, Ishamael Moridin <ishamael13@...> wrote:
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
?
"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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
?
"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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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
-----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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
-----
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.?????????
|
?
"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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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
-----
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
-----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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
-----
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
-----
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.?????????
|
?
"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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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
-----
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
-----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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 -----
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
-----
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
-----
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 -----
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.?????????
|
Ishamael Moridin