Murder Mystery Mansion (Game Thread) -- Niferbelle wins!

[Remiel]

(click to see full-size image)

Current Guest Whereabouts:

Master Bedroom		Trophy Room		Library		Wine Cellar		Kitchen		Conservatory
MCsc Ryven		Josietta Foamweber		Kendra		Saffron Eden Leorobin Valerian		Beguile's Mistress		Niferbelle

[Remiel]

O

ur game begins upon the grisly discovery of the remains of Mr. Slate Grey and the announcement by the investigating officer, Sergeant Teal.  Any pretense of frivolity and festivity has vanished, as the guests are free to wander the mansion looking for clues and conspire and collaborate amongst themselves.  As always, remember to include Remiel on any PM about the game.

And remember that the murderer still walks among you, and will feel no compunction about doing whatever is necessary to ensure that no one discovers the terrible truth.

[Remiel]

Okay, Murder Mystery Mansion is now officially open for business!

Sometime between now and the end of Sunday, 4 December (approximately 11:59 pm, U.S. Pacific Standard Time) I will need from each of you a post in the Game Thread describing which Room your character is in and what he or she is doing.    Writing a novel-length post is not necessary; a few sentences is just fine. 

In order to facilitate the game, you are allowed and even encouraged to chat In Character with the other guests and even flirt with them if that is appropriate to your character.  Try to flesh out your character's backstory (who is he? What does she do for a living?  How did shi know Mr. Grey?).  You can speculate, if you wish, about your suspicions--either publicly or in PM--to the other players, but remember, there can only be one winner of Murder Mystery Mansion.   The winner is whoever is the first to make a correct Accusation.  If the Murderer manages to last ten rounds without any guests making a correct Accusation, then he, or she, or shi, wins the game.   Lying in an attempt to mislead other players is perfectly acceptable.

Sometime during the week, I will also need from you a Suspicion including a Weapon, the Room that you are currently in, and a Suspect.   You are free to change your mind, but the last Suspicion I get from you by the time the round is over is the one that will count.   Similarly, you are free to move from Room to Room before the week is over, but the last room that you have visited by the time the clock strikes will be the one that you are considered to be in.

Remember that the Murderer is hiding among you, and that he/she/shi may strike at any time.  However, you are safe as long as you haven't discovered any clues yet.  Once you have, your life will be in mortal peril. 

Also, as always, if you collude or conspire about the game with anyone in PM, please copy me (Remiel) on all correspondence.

Good luck!

[Remiel]

*BONG* The huge grandfather clock in the foyer rings out eight times, signalling that the time is now 8:00 P.M.

[That Girl Analise]

Madame Mocha starts first in the Kitchen. In this time of peril, this is one of the two places in the home that will bring her comfort. It was there that she decided to begin to search for any sign of who may be the killer.

[Josietta]

Miss Scarlett had been appalled that such a crime would be committed against such a dastardly handsome man. She had wanted her own attempt at strangling him for leaving her hanging on that last business deal they had made. She had to find those pictures before anyone else did and thus headed up to the Library to look through some drawers and such for any clue as to their location. Moving through the house she made her way through the Trophy Room and figured she might as well stop there and have a look around. The sudden sound of the old grandfather clock had startled her a bit along the way and she sighed deeply before tucking back her ebony locks behind one ear.Her deep brown eyes shifted over each corner of the room to see if anyone was about before she headed to the side tables and shelves to look around.

[Kendra]

Miss Plum entered the kitchen with a strong brew of coffee as her soul intent. She looked startled to see Madame Mocha within but rationalised that perhaps the woman like herself needed a good calming brew. It was ghastly what had occured, it was still extremely difficult to digest. Why would someone want to kill him? He was positively the sweetest person on the very planet and she had harboured a crush on him for as long as she could remember. She had genuinely hoped to make her feelings known at his party but that was sadly never meant to be now.
"Cup of coffee?" she asked politely as she turned the machine on.

[Geeklet]

Miss Rainbow stood and listened to Sergeant Teal's plea for help into tracking down the person responsible for the death of Mr. Grey. This certainly was not how shi wished to spend the evening. You see, Mr. Grey, unbeknownst to some, was in fact her uncle. The two weren't particularly close, but when shi got the invite, Miss Rainbow knew it would be a night to remember, albeit not for this reason. Her uncle did always throw the best parties, and the intent was to have a wild, fun night. Well, now it seems it was just wild. People had begun scrambling about into various rooms, anxious to find out who would do such an act, if only to help prove their own innocence.

"Ugh, this night just got about 20% weirder..." shi mumbled to herself as shi headed down into the wine cellar. With all the chaos, hopefully one of the bottles down there could help calm hir nerves.

[Niferbelle]

In a crisis it was only natural one would seek out an area of comfort and so did Miss Brown find herself drifting toward the library. Having supported herself through college by working as one of Mr. Grey's assistants, it was a room she knew well and had found solace in through many long and arduous days. She had been grateful for the work, of course, but Mr. Grey was an exacting and demanding employer and she'd earned every penny of her salary and certainly was worthy of the excellent reference he'd given her.  She stepped into the room and breathed in the scent of leather and old books and was immediately soothed.  But she didn't waste any time lingering when there was far more important matters at hand. She began to look about the room systematically for any sign of anything amiss or disturbed, any inkling of any of Mr. Grey's latest project which could lead to a motive, or even if something might have been stolen.

[Nadir]

The Master Bedroom was where Master Indigo could be found, opening the drawer and peeking under the bed. Originally, he had come to see if there was an obvious murder scene - and then lingered to see if there was any smaller hint of violence... but now he seemed utterly distracted from his important task, and was prying into the deceased's personal affects. "He has to have some porn," he muttered to himself, sounding half frustrated and half suspicious. "Might be in the cellar... hmmmmn..."

[Lord Mayerling]

All men deal with death differently. For der Rote Baron it meant a time of meditation and cogitation in the conservatory. When one man dies, it can help to surround oneself with life. Mr. Grey had a conservatory filled with roses and other plants. And it was here where the air still remained fresh while death hung in the air. As the clock struck 8, the Baron spoke words of silence, a eulogy to their host. A warrior is joining you around the fire tonight. Honor him as we have.

[That Girl Analise]

Current location: In the Kitchen with Miss Plum

Madame Mocha cast a small sad smile over to Miss Plum as she entered the kitchen. She wasn't at all sure where to start in her investigation, but at this time a cup of coffee sounded amazing. "Yes, please," she said, scanning the room for ideas of where she should begin.

[Ryven]

Chef Sage-green had been busying himself in the kitchen when he heard the news.  Dinner had gone delightfully well for him, so it was such a surprising turn of events to find that the host had been found dead.  The death weighed heavily upon him as he set about preparing something delightful to eat.  It would take his mind off who amongst the guests saw fit to go through with such an alarming deed, and while he did so, he could examine the kitchen a bit more closely while his delicious pastries baked.

[Beguile's Mistress]

Lady Lavender stood at the window of the conservatory peering out into garden beyond the glass walls.  The humidity to be found in this part of the house, the rich smell of fecund earth mixed with the perfume of the blooms on the many plants and the serene peacefulness soothed a spirit that was sorely bruised by the terrible news that had been delivered only a short time before.  In her hands she held a small nosegay of lavender she had gathered during her early morning walk out of doors and with a piece of pale grey satin ribbon she secured a gardenia of the most perfect waxen petals imaginable.

Her mind was as busy as her fingers and as she fashioned the small corsage and pinned it to the shoulder of her dress she ran a mental inventory of the rooms in the house and the guests trying to recall that one object that was out of place and that one person who was more suspicious than the others.  Her mind wandered for a moment but she was suddenly called back to her surroundings by the sound of a voice speaking almost in a whisper in another part of the plant filled room.  The pin of her corsage slipped into place suddenly and she let out a soft gasp of pain and sucked at the tip of her pricked finger.

[Valerian]

It was really most unfortunate, Professor Verde sighed to herself, that she had travelled 3700 miles only to find herself a murder suspect among a lot of other murder suspects.  This had been meant to be her first face to face meeting with Mr. Grey, the man who had been such a benefactor to the museum where she was assistant curator, and it had all turned into tragedy.  Everyone at the Museo del Oro back in Lima would be crushed at this news.  It would positively ruin the grand opening of the new exhibit that she had worked so hard on: the Naughty Pottery and Highly Suggestive Textile Crafts of the Peruvian Moche Culture.  Mr. Grey had been so looking forward to seeing the photos.

Now everything was in a shambles, including the party, and poor Mr. Grey was no more.  It was little wonder that she found herself retreating to the Library searching for peace, quiet, and perhaps a little inspiration, since the police seemed so anxious for their help.

[Autumn Sativus]

Doctor Emerald was found in the Library as well, curious to see if this could be the place where the incident had occured but also interested in the collection of books to be found here. She was a curious woman, one who always wanted to learn more and so the library was one of her most comfortable places in any building. Books could not kill. She had spent time in this library before when working on research, some of the oldest volumes contained in the shelves truly did belong in museums but they had been very useful in Doctor Emerald's research.

Things had been getting unpleasant in the house now that the dear Mr Grey had been discovered so horribly and the library was the obvious choice for solace. She encountered a couple of others in the room and simply nodded quietly to acknowledge their presence as she wandered the room in search of something of interest.

[Josietta]

Miss Scarlett continued to search through drawers and the like, searching for anything that would help her find what she sought. It had to be there somewhere, on file, in papers, or even on some sort of storage device. He wouldn't leave it laying about so carelessly though. Her eyes shifted to glance toward the doorway thinking she heard someone but didn't see anyone entering. Going back to her search she rifled through a few shelves and sighed heavily.

"Where could it be..."

She furrowed a shaped dark brow and pursed her scarlet red lips together. Hrmm... maybe the library. She started to head out of the TROPHY ROOM and glanced about the hallway toward the library. Noting someone else entering there she cursed her luck and bit at her lower lip. Of course the others would be searching the house for clues. She just hoped they didn't find out her secret.

[Kendra]

She smiled at the other woman before turning to pour out two mugs of coffee. They had not been told how he had died, that would have helped greatly of course, it only added to the puzzle that she would have to deduce the how and why as well as the where, all the while her heart breaking. Passing the mug to Madam Mocha she sipped at her own coffee when a noise startled her. She had not seen the chef there busy amongst his baking, had she been that distracted, she mused.
"Tragic" was all she could mutter, as she poured a third mug and moved to place it on the work top counter. The metal of pots, pans, knives and other culinary tools caught her eye and she felt a shiver course through her.
"Tragic" she repeated.

[Ryven]

He waved distraction from his head.  Thoughts of where, what, and who marched through his mind like some chaotic parade of ideas.  He'd not seen the cup slipped to him for a few moments, but when he finally did notice, the chef made sure to turn, give a warm smile, and thank Miss Plum for her thoughtful gesture.  He picked up the cup and brought it to his lips, the liquid nearly touching his mouth before one thought in particular crossed his mind.  Poison.  He set the cup down, leaving it unattended.  One can never be too cautious, but then again, she was drinking the same thing.  Was paranoia already getting to him?

[Zelric Miras]

Dr. Silver arrived at the Master Bedroom and found someone rumagging through the drawers. Taken aback he approached the individual cautiously and when he was close he rose his voice, although not enugh to be consiered a yell. "Did you lose something, sire? Maybe a weapon?" He looked with suspicion at the man, wondering why would he pillage the dead man's room.

[Niferbelle]

Miss Brown's heart just about leapt out of her chest as she heard others entering the library. There was a murderer about, after all, and nobody knew who it was, not even the authorities who were so lost they were asking for civilian help. She came out from the stacks to see who it was, and nodded a greeting to the ladies who'd joined her, and felt a little more at ease. Sociologically it was reverse sexism, of course, that she would feel it was less likely the killer was a woman but the easing of her tension could also be explained by there being multiple people in the room. With more than two present, she felt certain she was safe.

"Not the evening any of us had been expecting," she commented, being one of those unfortunates who suffered from what was called pressure of speech. "Does anyone else think it's strange the detective would ask us, the most likely suspects, to assist with the investigation? I mean, say one of us is the killer, wouldn't it give us ample time to do away with evidence and further conceal our actions? And it's not like I know anyone well enough to speculate on motive and the killer certainly wouldn't share any information that  might lead one of us to that conclusion. Though I suppose I should be grateful they're handling it this way and not dragging us down to the station. I've never been in a police station but I imagine it's much less comfortable than the mansion though knowing such a gruesome crime has occurred here certainly takes away from the charm."

It was fortunate for the others in the room that she seemed to run out of breath as she stopped in front of the fireplace, frowning as she noted the position of the accessories around it. Mr. Grey was always very precise, especially in the library. Mentally she began to run down the list of the other guests, trying to decide upon first impression who seemed most capable of such an act and also considered the rooms and which one would have been most expedient to committing a murder.

[Missy]

Major Mustard paced around the Trophy Room his mind flowing over the events of the evening and old Slate's death. For the moment he wasn't actually as worried about Slate dying as he was about himself being a potential suspect. He knew he hadn't done it, but someone had and that someone was probably going to want to frame someone else for the deed. The Major turned to stand directly in front of the Trophy Room's bust of ole' Slate's distant ancestor heavy he thought.

[Josietta]

Miss Scarlett nearly jumped as someone else entered the Trophy Room as she was exiting. She rose a brow and looked at him. She watched as he walked past her and headed straight over toward the bust of a Grey family member. Taking in each detail on the person she looked for any sign of distress in his clothing or mannerisms. Maybe he was the one who socked it to the bastard. She hoped he hadn't learned anything he wasn't supposed to. If so he may have to meet the same fate as Mr Grey. Her lips pursed a bit and wondered if the killer would indeed take out others for some secrets they might hold. Maybe everyone here had a secret as she did. Maybe everyone here was a target as well. Soon, Miss Scarlet became nervous and wondered just what could or would happen next. And thus, not wanting to be alone now, even if she had to find that envelope, she stayed in the room with Major Mustard and waited to see what he was doing.

[FoamWeber]

Professor Mauve wandered slowly around the house. So Mr. Grey was dead, was he? She was fairly certain that not many mourned his loss. Professor Mauve was at least mildly annoyed by the revelation of his death, more because of the inconvenient situation she was placed in than any actual feelings for the man. His death meant that her information was useless. All that work for nothing. She had been certain the man had been willing to pay up, too. Why else would he have invited her to the party? When she had recieved the invitation, Professor Mauve had been convinced that he had finally folded, had finally decided to give her her money using the party as a cover up. Even if that was the case, it was too late now. Any money of his she took would just make her look guilty. She continued wandering, and noticed a staircase leading downstairs. Intrigued, the professor took the staircase down into a vast wine cellar. She picked up a bottle and smiled. This collection was priceless. How beautiful.

[Geeklet]

By the time Professor Mauve had descended the staircase, Miss Rainbow was standing there, a bottle of something in hand, with the open end pressed to her lips while the base was upended. Shi nearly sputtered as the other woman came down, trying to swallow the last of what was in her mouth before speaking. "Oh, hey. Didn't think anyone else would be coming down here."

[FoamWeber]

Professor Mauve nodded at the woman. "It seems like most people are on the top two floors, yes. How is the wine?" She glanced casually around the rest of the room. Mr. Grey had certainly spared no expense in the room.

[Remiel]

*BONG* The huge grandfather clock in the foyer rings out nine times, signalling that the time is now 9:00 P.M.

[Nadir]

Master Eden Indigo jumped at the sound of the distantly chiming clock, remembering suddenly what they were all trying to discover. Signs of nefarious deeds of a different nature... with a sign, the one eyed man left the Master Bedroom, a meandered the halls until he came to the Trophy Room. Indigo recoiled at the sight of the mounted animals, and almost turned and fled, but managed to stand his ground. He pulled a silken kerchief from his pocket and held it over his mouth and nose as he advanced into the morbid room. He hadn't seen this room before, his acquaintance with Mr Grey more or less restricted to correspondence and only infrequently was an invitation extended by either of them for dinners and the like.

Seeing how much joy Grey took in useless death was surprising, however. "I suppose everyone has their.... fetishes, but this sort is not one I care for."   

[That Girl Analise]

Deciding it best to change where she was with the hour, Mocha sets off to a new room. There hasn't been anything for her to discover yet, and she's not sure the kitchen holds the answers she needs. After some consideration she sets off to the Master Bedroom. It may help to start in his living space.

[Ryven]

With preparation done and kitchen clean, the good chef decided that a change of scenery was in order.  The kitchen was definitely his domain, but it seemed his trail had run dry there.  He untied his apron and set it upon the counter with his hat, moving from the room to try and discover other clues elsewhere.  Perhaps the Master Bedroom would lend him more luck.

[FoamWeber]

Professor Mauve smiled and sat down IB a cozy armchair, deciding to stay where she was. Perhaps there was more to be found in the wine cellar; in any case, she was perfectly comfortable. She felt no actual desire to taste the wine, though. She didn't drink, and it seemed like such a waste to open a bottle someone would be so willing to pay for.

[Missy]

Having found no clues the Major sighed and turned to find Miss Scarlett standing behind him. "Pardon me Madame, you haven't been there long?" he asked, slightly surprised he wondered if he had just walked by her only moments before in his preoccupied state of mind.

[Valerian]

With a sigh, Professor Verde abandoned the Library for the moment and headed for the Kitchen -- just in time to see two people leaving it.  That was probably not too much of a surprise, however; she doubted anyone had much of an appetite just then.  There was always a good deal to explore in any kitchen, though, so she had some hopes of discovering something of interest.  She was not much of a cook herself, but it seemed well-stocked and equipped as well as clean and tidy, the sort of place any chef would enjoy working in, and she was not surprised to discover that Mr. Grey had had such a kitchen.

[Lord Mayerling]

With some trepidation, the Rote Baron entered the kitchen. This was an almost literal smorgasbord of potential murder weapons. As he answered he found the captivating Professor Verde already within. However, was she investigating, or was she stashing? Something in his gut told him that no one calling themselves a Professor could be a murderer.

“Guten abend, Professor,” the Baron made his presence known, and started looking for something, anything suspicious within the room.

[Josietta]

She had watched the man before her for a bit and then finally he had given her a bit of notice back. Giving him a smile and a slight shake of her ebon locks she replied quietly in her usual soft voice.

"No.. not at all. Do you see something of interest?"

Major Mustard seemed to be in his own world and Miss Scarlett had to wonder just what he was thinking. It wasn't moments before the she turned her gaze toward Master Indigo and nodded politely. She gave a half smile, in light of the current situation, too much of a smile might make her seem happy that Mr Grey had met his end. It wasn't as if she were sad about it, but she had wondered who to thank for plucking such a thorn from her side.

[That Girl Analise]

Currently: in the Master Bedroom with Chef Sage Green

It seemed she had a companion from the kitchen with the same ideas as her. "Hello, Chef," Madame Mocha said said, smiling sadly over. There was a temptation to try and band an alliance, but she couldn't know if anyone was listening or that the chef himself had done the deed. As much as she wanted to at least figure something out, she didn't know if what she would be told was the truth.

[Kendra]

Miss Plum heard the grandfather clock strike the hour but moved only to sit at the kitchen table, she glanced up from her mug to see Madam Mocha leave and soon after the chef. It seemed as if she would get no peace at all to think as Professor Mauve entered. Miss Plum merely nodded at her before returning to her mug of coffee. The baron entered soon after and greeted the professor. Miss Plum wondered if either had even noticed her and looked back at her coffee mug before placing it down on the table with her hands still around it as if keeping them warm.

"The coffee in the pot is fresh" she told them both, wondering if perhaps one of them was the murderer.

[Niferbelle]

Dismayed that her attempts at being social were not exactly encouraged by the others, Miss Brown retreated from the library and found herself out in the hall. Without realizing where her wandering was taking her, she found herself outside of the conservatory and decided she might as well have a look around. Stepping through the doorway she breathed in the scent of fresh greenery and damp earth and tried to stay on task and not waste time appreciating  Mr. Grey's horticultural prowess. Poor man. She checked the shelves and small cabinets where various tools and supplies were kept, hoping her memory of past hours here would help her ascertain if something were amiss.

[Autumn Sativus]

Doctor Emerald, having had a sneaking suspicion since her investigation of the library, made her way down to the wine cellar, feeling that there may be something worth her time among the bottles found there. With curious eyes, she began her search and investigation of the room, keeping to herself mostly as she went about trying her best to deduce what may or may not have occurred here.

[Missy]

The Major smiled at the woman "You know I don't believe we've met. I'm Major Dijon Mustard, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance madame" he was trying to make up for his past rudeness but it also occurred to him that no one in the house was above suspicion in this matter. He was about to speak once more when Master Indigo entered the room.

[Geeklet]

It would seem that the guests had started to shuffle around more, and the more people that came down into the wine cellar with hir, the more nervous shi got. So bottle in hand, Miss Rainbow headed up the stairs, glancing into several rooms before finally settling inside the Library. After taking a swig from her bottle, shi idly walked around the room, occasionally running her fingers down the spine of a book. Maybe here shi could find some peace and quiet.

[Missy]

Thinking again of the matter at hand Major Mustard left the trophy room with a smile and nod towards Master Indigo and Miss Scarlet and a "well I will speak with you later"

Major Mustard took the stairs down towards the Wine Cellar[/u] perhaps a bit of wine will clear my mind he thought.

[FoamWeber]

Professor Mauve got to her feet reluctantly. The room was getting to be far too crowded for her taste, especially with a murderer about. Even more importantly, it was causing her almost physical pain seeing these people casually opening the wine bottles. Did they not have any idea how much they were worth? The fools. Perhaps she'd be able to clear her head in the conservatory.

[Beguile's Mistress]

Lady Lavender had frozen at the sound of voice in the conservatory but when no other sound had been forthcoming she took a quick look around the humid environs but was hard pressed to see anything amiss.  None of the plants had been damaged nor the soil disturbed by hands seeking to conceal a murder weapon so nursing the pin prick on her index finger she slowly left to find a more productive field of exploration.

Wandering through the mansion she came to a room that seemed to be neglected by most of the guests.  Plaques adorned the walls along with framed certificates and glass cases held bronzed and silver statuettes with here and there the glint of gold among them.  It appeared that Mr. Grey was quite the accomplished sportsman Lady Lavender thought as she looked around the trophy room and decided to make a more thorough inspection of the many hiding places the room provided.

[Josietta]

Miss Scarlett looked from Master Indigo toward Major Mustard and nodded. "A pleasure, I am Miss Scarlett. I am sure we will speak again sometime. Good Luck with what you may find or seek." As he made his exit she gave a polite smile and looked back to the room at hand. Moving over toward the area the Major was at she looked around to see just what was so intriguing that he didn't even notice her there. Her eyes roamed around the bust and then looked over toward the entry way as Lady Lavender stepped into the room. She gave another polite smile to the female and then looked back at the molded likeness of the Grey family.

[Zelric Miras]

Dr Silver moved from the main room towards the Trophy Room. The lack of reply from Master Indigo stood out as rude, but he said nothing about it. He saw two women inside the room and smiled. -Good Evening.- He spoke the short greeting and took a hand to his forehead, mocking a salute with his hat, which should now be waiting in the coat's room. Dr. Silver glanced at his pocket watch and hoped that everything would be solved soon.

[Josietta]

As Dr Silver entered the room as well she gave a polite nod and half curtsie to the man then looked toward the Lady as she spoke to them all.

"Have you heard any news as of yet? I do hope they find something out. Its unnerving to be settled in such a large place with a deranged individual running loose doing whatever pleases their fancy. I'm afraid for all of our lives. We truly should stay together in groups. Wouldn't you think?"

She tilted her head a bit and pushed back a dark lock from her honey brown eyes. It was a trying night as they all searched and she could use a glass of wine but knew that she had to stay in one area to maintain her own safety. Hopefully amongst those who were trustworthy.

[Remiel]

*BONG* The huge grandfather clock in the foyer rings out ten times, signalling that the time is now 10:00 P.M.

[That Girl Analise]

As the time ticked away, Mocha was getting more an more nervous. There was a murderer among them... And who knew if or when the murderer would strike again! Waving wearily at the chef,  she decided to check another room for clues. Perhaps a she could find something in the Library.

[Niferbelle]

Perhaps it was the shock of the discovery of Mr. Grey's body that had been keeping Miss Brown's nerves at bay but that was clearly wearing off now and she was beginning to fray at the edges. The conservatory was doing nothing to soothe her anymore nor was it inspiring her intellect so she decided once again to drift on, gasping as she was startled by Professor Mauve entering.

"Excuse me, I'm a little on edge tonight," Miss Brown said with a wan smile then simply nodded and swept through the door out into the corridor with a polite nod.

She walked awhile then paused, staring up the staircase to the upper floors, trying to gather up her courage. To be thorough, she would have to investigate everywhere though there was one room in particular she never wanted to see the inside of again. But best to get it over with, she decided, and made her way up to the master bedroom, creeping in quietly and unaware if there were someone already there.

[FoamWeber]

Professor Mauve glanced around the conservatory. Nothing special- unlike the wine cellar, this room didn't smell like money. It only smelled like flowers. How boring. On the other hand, she had heard that this house had a spectacular library, full of rare books. Professor Mauve headed over, intrigued by the idea. Perhaps she could still make a profit with this visit.

[Kendra]

Miss Plum heard once again the grandfather clock chime the hour and pushed the cup from her to stand, she smiled at the two in the kitchen with her, though the smile was merely an act of politeness and nothing more. She left the room and feeling a headache coming on, decided to sequester herself in the trophy room. At least there she felt she would have time to herself but stepping with found others had obviously thought the same thing.
"Hello" her soft voice carried in the room and she moved to close the door behind her. Moving further into the room she took stock of those now within.

[Autumn Sativus]

After the hour was up, Dr. Emerald sighed with her frustration of being unable to help the cause and wandered her way to the Kitchen for a drink, wondering if it might calm her nerves. The kitchen was always the busiest room in a house, right? Perhaps some idle chatter would take the stress from the situation, at least for a little while. Of course, while she was there, she'd have to do some investigating to see if there was any evidence showing that the murder may have taken place there.

[Josietta]

Miss Scarlett looked up as yet another entered the room. It seemed that the Trophy Room was becoming a gathering point. Was it the fact it was a safer place or was it indeed the place of murder? Could one of these people be the criminal in question returning to the crime scene? She watched as Miss Plum walked in speaking a quiet "hello". She gave the female a polite smile and nod.

"Hello, I don't believe we have met. I am Miss Scarlett. Have you heard anything new?"

[Valerian]

Excusing herself to the others in the kitchen, Professor Verde made her way to the Conservatory.  Professor Mauve might have disdained it, but Professor Verde found it quite restful, just what she needed after the shocks the evening had held so far.  She felt restless, uneasy, almost unable to stop moving for very long.  Botany not being her specialty, she could identify very few of the plants, though they were all lovely, like everything she'd seen in the house so far.  Mr. Grey had been a true connoisseur, and his death was a terrible shame.

[Missy]

After thoroughly investigating the room it occurred to Major Mustard that it may be wise to keep an eye on his back. Whomever did Slate in was still about someplace, the Major didn't want to be next. The Major cautiously opened the door to the wine cellar and peeked out to ensure it was safe and that no one was waiting to do him in before making for the stairs. This time he climbed all the way to the top, deciding to explore the Master Bedroom he whistled at the lavishness of it, and felt sorry for Slate not being able to enjoy it any longer.

[Lord Mayerling]

Shortly after Major Mustard, the Rote Baron followed him into the Master Bedroom. Here Mr. Gray odd, eccentric tastes were on full display, and the Baron couldn’t help but wonder about the women he had possibly bedded in this environment. The thought made him chuckle.

[Nadir]

Master Indigo looks over the people in the room, smiling a little at those who nod in greeting but felt too worn by the disturbing decoration to make more of a response. As soon as was polite, Indigo left the horrific chamber and headed to the Conservatory to get refreshed. Seeing another with the same idea, he smiles to the Professor. "Good evening, or would I say were the circumstance improved..."

[Ryven]

Finding nothing of note in his current location, the chef decides it would be better to seek answers elsewhere.  He slowly makes his way out of the Master Bedroom.  Perhaps the Library could shed some light on who or perhaps how the murder had been committed.

[That Girl Analise]

Madame Mocha was weary of staying in one place for too long; people made her nervous. She couldn't help it. So as the room began to fill up, she made her way to the conservatory

[Nadir]

Master Indigo offers the Madame a bow in greeting. "Ah, hello m'dear. You seem rather flustered. Grey does - eh, did - have a rather oppressive sense of style but this room offers some relief."

[Niferbelle]

Miss Brown felt jittery when the gentlemen entered and fet her heart pound as she continued to inspect the perimeter of the room. She couldn't help but steal a glance or two at the Baron, however, whom she had met once while she was still working for Mr. Grey. She certainly remembered him though there was no reason he would do the same of her, she supposed. But she offered him a nervous smile out of politeness, as she did the Colonel, and skirted a little closer to the Baron as they went about their business.

[That Girl Analise]

"I always had found his style rather intriguing," Mocha nodded to Indigo. "But yes, I am a little flustered. I feel like any one of us could be keeled at any moment. You'll forgive me for keeping my distance from you, I hope?" she said, a little nervously. "I just wish we could catch the killer already.

[Geeklet]

Hir stomach rumbled, and Miss Rainbow looked around the Library, hoping no one else heard it. Before anyone could say anything though, shi slipped off towards the Kitchen. As shi walked through the hall, shi could hear the others talking and mingling amongst themselves. It still baffled hir mind how they could do that when a known killer was on the loose.

[Beguile's Mistress]

The trophy room yielded little in the nature of clues and Lady Lavender decided it was also becoming a trifle crowded and though she spent a few moments responding to greetings and questions her replies were decidedly noncommittal as she made her exit.  She needed a quiet place to collect her thoughts and as she roamed from room to room she found the wine cellar to be unoccupied.

The scent of exotic wood and rich leather mingled with the musky and pungent aromas of wines long ago opened and tasted and savored in this room.  Lady Lavender was soothed by this ambience and her interest piqued by the possibility this had been the site of Mr. Gray's demise.  She pictured him seated in one of the settees sipping a wine that had been decanted for his pleasure a smile on his face as the flavor blossomed on his tongue.  Then the end, the glass falling from suddenly nerveless fingers, a hand clutching his throat and an agonized grimace on his face as his eyes rolled back in his head and he collapsed in the throes of a horrific death.

The thought of poison taking this evil man on the first steps of his final journey sent a shiver down her spine.

[Ryven]

He grew tired of the library.  So many books with knowledge waiting so passively.  Nothing seemed to be out of place or catching his eye.  The chef decided to go back to the kitchen and make himself a cup of tea.

[Remiel]

Seargeant Teal wandered about the Trophy Room, inspecting the various specimens on display.  Mr. Grey certainly seemed to have a fetish for deer--or, at least, the stuffed and lifeless kind.  He reached out, absently, his mind elsewhere, not really paying attention to what he was doing, and touched the antler of one of the mounted heads.  To his great surprise, the antler moved under his hand, bending down like a lever on the head of the deer, which stared glassily at him with a somewhat, he felt, accusatory expression. 

Just as the investigator was afraid that he had broken it, there was an audible "click" from somewhere, and a grinding noise; and then a display case swung aside to reveal a hidden staircase, going down.  His pulse racing, Teal ducked his head and climbed carefully into the passage.  After navigating the winding stairs--dark, lit only by the faintest trickle of light from the eaves--he ended up at a kind of sliding door.  Putting his hands against the panel, and pushing, he felt it slide aside.

He stepped into the well-lit room, which he now recognized as the Wine Cellar.   The discovery boggled him--who knew how many other secret passages might be hidden throughout the mansion?

He had no time to reflect on this, however.  One of his men, whom he recognized as Detective Navy, was hurrying toward him, grey-faced.  "Sir," said Navy, "the killer has struck again.  A body has been found in the Kitchen."

Teal groaned.  Hurrying after the younger detective, he ran to the Kitchen, where, just as Navy had said, a grisly sight awaited him.  There, sprawled upon the tile floor, was the lifeless corpse of Miss Rainbow; it looked like she had been throttled to death.

*BONG* The huge grandfather clock in the foyer rings out eleven times, signalling that the time is now 11:00 P.M.

[Autumn Sativus]

Dr. Emerald turned from her seat at the kitchen table and walked over to the area where suddenly, things had sprung to life. Her eyes widened as she realized that Miss Rainbow was... well... dead. The murderer must be in the room, then, right? Slowly, she turned, looking to see who else had joined her in the kitchen. Could it have been the Chef?

She wasn't sure that she wanted to find out by being the next victim and after leaving her statement, she chose a new venue, the Conservatory, hoping it might prove safer than the kitchen.

[Zelric Miras]

Dr. Silver had examined Miss Rainbow's body briefly, he didn't  touch it though, leaving it for the detectives. He wandered to the library to find something to entertain his thoughts to clear his mind.

[Josietta]

Miss Scarlett watched at Sergeant Teal moved around the Trophy Room. She had pretty much scoured the room herself but when he found a secret passage her eyes widened and she followed. This was certainly interesting. The finding of Miss Rainbow's body was not exactly a surprise with a killer roaming around. She figured someone else would end up on the bloody end of a knife or some such. It was one of hte reasons the dark haired woman decided to stay amongst a group of others. Being alone in this house was just asking for something to happen to you. She sighed some and moved back up to the Trophy Room in hopes others would still be there. This whole ordeal was trying and she still had to find where he put it. Where did the bastard put it?! She sighed some pushed her fingers through her hair before smoothing out the silken locks.

[Kendra]

Miss Plum smiled at the woman politely as she introduced herself and though she did not extend her hand, she politely introduced herself as well.
"I am Miss Kendra Plum" she told her before turning her attention to the trophies in the cabinet before her. A few things she happened then with the sound of the gong announcing another hour had past, she was oblivious to the death in the kitchen but no doubt would be filled in soon enough. The Sargeant and Miss Scarlett left the room through what seemed to be a narrow passage way. Miss Plum glanced about her once more before deciding to leave and head to the conservatory.

[Ryven]

It was quiet.  Very quiet in the room, indeed.  He looked about, scanning for something that just wasn't there, and after a long moment, he decided there was nothing he could do but try and look elsewhere.  The chef decided that the Library was the next stop.

[Autumn Sativus]

The conservatory had become a bit too crowded for her liking and Dr Emerald decided to head back to the wine cellar, perhaps to take the edge off with a drink or maybe there would be something there that she had missed.

[Niferbelle]

Miss Brown felt somewhat better with the presence of the dashing Baron and apparently not content she had learned all she could here, continued to exam the perimeter of the room, pausing to fuss with the armoire a bit. Even some of her tension with the presence of the Major lessened, after all, she couldn't go about all night afraid of everyone she might encounter.

[FoamWeber]

What a lovely library. Professor Mauve wandered slowly through the room, glancing at the rare and precious books lining the walls. Someday, she decided, she wanted a library just like this. Maybe two of them. Starting to feel hungry, Professor Mauve decided to grab a snack from the kitchen. She could always come back, after all. Her plan was soon at the back of her mind when she noticed a corpse lying alone in the middle of the kitchen. How odd- had the murderer struck again? Or was there more than one murderer now wandering through the house?

[That Girl Analise]

Mocha made her way to the trophy room, and immediately regretted the decision. The deer seemed to stare at her. She would make her investigation quickly and get out of the room as fast as possible.

[Zelric Miras]

Dr. Silver moved from behind a book case and glanced at the chef. Looking for any cooking books perhaps? -It is getting a bit chilly, don't you think?-

[Kendra]

It seemed as if she were alone in the conservatory which was fine by Miss Plum for now. It gave her time to check this room at least and to put her thoughts in to order.

[Valerian]

The professor made her way to the Trophy Room, and like Madame Mocha, instantly wished she hadn't.  Eyes stared at her from all directions, making her even more on edge than she had been a moment ago.  However, she still had a mission, and if the rumors of Miss Rainbow's demise were true, it was a more vital mission than ever.  "Not a very pleasant room," she murmured unhappily to Madame Mocha, then, like her, set quickly to work.

[Ryven]

Dr. Silver moved from behind a book case and glanced at the chef. Looking for any cooking books perhaps? -It is getting a bit chilly, don't you think?-

He let his eyes wander to the good doctor who peered from behind the wall of books.  The chef gave a smile and a nod.  "I dare say.  With the events of the night, I'm surprised everyone hasn't come up with a case of the chills."

[Beguile's Mistress]

Lady Lavender studied the racks looking for signs that any of their contents had been tampered with, that any dust that had settled on the bottles might have been disturbed.  There was nothing readily apparent after a lengthy search but her investigations had left her with a parched tongue so she decided a bit of a crisp chardonnay would be a pleasant solution to her problem.  One was located and the lady took it to the small bar in the corner where she found a knife to remove the wax seal and a corkscrew to open the bottle. 

The rich fragrance reached her nose as she poured the pale golden liquid into a glass she had upended and then as the other lady entered the wine cellar she turned a second glass upright and poured a measure into it as well.

"You're Dr. Emerald, are you not?" Lady Lavender asked.  "Would you care for a glass of chardonnay?  Of course, there's a wide enough selection here to satisfy your desires should this not suit."

[Autumn Sativus]

"Yes, that's right." She smiled just slightly her thanks and accepted the glass offered. "Thank you, Lady Lavendar, right?" The Doctor found a seat where and settled in, holding herself gently as she had too come over with quite a chill after the scene in the kitchen earlier. If she hadn't turned her back for just a minute... perhaps... No, she couldn't go and blame herself. Perhaps the wine would help her to feel warm again, she thought, taking a sip. "This place certainly has lost its warmth with Mr. Grey gone." she sighed.

[Beguile's Mistress]

"Mr. Grey exhibited more heat that warmth I'd say," Lady Lavender replied with a blush pinkening her soft complexion.  "His advances could be quite tenacious."  The rim of the glass met her carmine lips and a long swallow slid down her throat with ease. 

"Mmmmmm.  Delicious."

[Nadir]

Master Indigo gets out a pipe and lights it as he looks around the plant-filled room, glancing over at Miss Plum who seems to have forgotten he was in the same room as her. "If there is a murderer around, miss, you should try to keep at least half your wits to the present, though the intensity of your investigation is commendable." 

[Autumn Sativus]

The Doctor chuckled and nodded. "That's a very good point." she sighed, thinking of the man now and what a sad end he had come to. More wine, she reminded herself, taking another sip and trying not to let herself become too shaken by the events.

[Remiel]

*BONG* The huge grandfather clock in the foyer rings out twelve times, signalling that the time is now midnight.

Seargeant Teal was getting nowhere.  Whomever Mr. Grey's killer had been, he--or she--had fiendishly concealed all evidence of the crime.  There were no fingerprints, no telltale signs of struggle, no dried drops of blood, no huge flashing neon signs saying "Mr. X did it."  He glanced at his wristwatch with a frown--if the investigation had not turned up anything substantial by sunrise, they would have to release the suspects.

He was rudely and abruptly startled by Detective Navy, who soberly informed him that another dead body had been found, this time in the Master Bedroom.  He raced there, to discover the prone and lifeless body of the Red Baron.

"Our killer has struck again, it seems," said Teal, with a mounting sense of panic.  "And right under our noses, too.  Well, one thing we know, for sure--the killer was in the Master Bedroom this last hour."

"Er, not necessarily, sir," said Detective Navy.  "We have discovered secret passages leading to both the Library and the Trophy Room.  The killer could have been in either of those rooms as well."

[Niferbelle]

It was almost too much for poor Miss Brown to take seeing the handsome Red Baron so cruelly dead on the floor. And to think it happened in this very room behind her turned back! Nowhere and no one was safe. As soon as the constables allowed it, she took one last sad look at the Baron and fled the room, unable to bear the sight any longer. She ran until she once again reached the cool greenery of the conservatory, took a moment to calm herself, and began to pace, chewing on a thumbnail as she tried to reason it all out.

[Nadir]

With a quick step, Master Indigo left the conservatory and made his way down to the Wine Cellar - a few hours before he had mused about it being a possible sex dungeon, but now these matters were getting most pressing. The murderer was picking them off...

[Josietta]

Miss Scarlett stayed in the Trophy Room for the time being, watching those who entered and exited. She mostly kept looking as if she was missing something there. Her deep chocolate eyes roaming over each corner when another death was heard of. No one was safe in this place! She furrowed her brow and wondered just what was going to happen next. Maybe someone would speak of their suspicions. She had her own.

[Beguile's Mistress]

Lady Lavender finished her wine and left the bottle for Dr. Emerald.  She had a sudden craving for caffeine and slowly made her way to the kitchen.  The body had been removed by on the way she learned the news that the Red Baron had been done away with in the Master Bedroom and suddenly felt light headed.  Horror of horrors!  The Baron.  She had spoken to him only a few hours ago and now he had fallen victim to this heinous assassin.  She brewed a pot of tea for herself with shaking hands and while waiting for it to steep she made a search of the cabinets and draws and cupboards.  Yes, others had searched earlier but no one was perfect and they all might have missed something.

[Kendra]

Miss Plum had begun to creep herself out with her mind wandering as it did all alone in the conservatory, she left before any one had a chance to enter and made her way to the library. There at least she could lose herself amongst the books for a while and ease the pain in her head that her thoughts were giving her. There she smiled on seeing at least two others. She recognised the chef of course and merely smiled at the doctor politely before moving to sit in one of the leather arm chairs, picking up a book on the side table she flicked through it oblivious to the other death that had occured.

[Zelric Miras]

He let his eyes wander to the good doctor who peered from behind the wall of books.  The chef gave a smile and a nod.  "I dare say.  With the events of the night, I'm surprised everyone hasn't come up with a case of the chills."

"Certainly, still, we have a doctor or two around to cope with it." He gave a tap to the tip of his mask and also smiled. "Well, I'll search for a warmer room, hope we meet again." Dr. Silver left the room and while he was walking down the corridors he heard the tidings of Red Baron's death.  As before he went to inspect the body for clues and moved to the Wine Cellar to think. Perhaps it wasn't better in matters of warmness, but he could get warm with some spirits. -"Good evening"- he mused upon entering the room. Dr. Silver walked towards the wines, looking for one that he liked, but no brand or year in particular. He wasn't too picky or knowledgeable.

[Nadir]

Master Indigo froze as he was uncorking a seventeen year-old whiskey, hearing the greeting. "Ah, good evening Doctor! Would you care to search for clues in this bottle with me?"

[Zelric Miras]

Dr. Silver smiled and approached, taking a glass for himself. -"Not at all, it would be a pleasure."-

[Nadir]

"Excellent, excellent." The Master takes a tumbler of his own and samples the evidence, and takes a swallow. "Yeeees, this is most relevant to my investigation. In fact, it may be crucial!"

[Valerian]

With great caution, Professor Verde crept into the Wine Cellar, seeming both alarmed and relieved to find others already there.  "Pardon me," she murmured, seeing them engaged in sampling what was probably a very fine whiskey, and stepped a little to the side to begin her tentative investigation.  It was rather dark down there, which was a little unnerving, but on the other hand, at least there weren't countless pairs of glassy eyes staring at her.

[Zelric Miras]

Dr. Silver couldn't help but laugh and nod in agreement. "Quite relevant, of course." He noticed someone else arriving and bowed his head in a greeting. "Good evening madame."

[Autumn Sativus]

Dr. Emerald nodded her well wishes to Lady Lavender as she left and settled back in the seat to sip at her glass of wine. She noticed when Professor Emerald entered, they'd met earlier in the Library. "Would you care for a glass to help ease the jitters, Professor?" she offered as the woman made her way in this direction, obviously seeking something more than what had so far been found.

[Valerian]

Reasoning that drinking out of the same wine bottle that other people had already sampled wasn't likely to do her any harm, Professor Verde accepted this offer with thanks, returning the others' greetings.  It was a little awkward, drinking their murdered host's wine, but on the other hand she couldn't believe that a generous benefactor like Mr. Grey would have begrudged them this small luxury while they sought his murderer.  "I'm glad everyone in this room is all right, at least," she said, with a wan smile.

[FoamWeber]

Professor Mauve made herself a lovely sandwich in the kitchen. Of course the room was filled with all the freshest of ingredients- Mr. Grey seemed to have a special love of food. She munched on her snack as the corpse in the kitchen was removed. Well, now that she was full, she had heard remarkable things about the Trophy room of the house. She meandered over in that direction, still holding the last corner of her sandwich.

[Ryven]

The library seemed to be turning up as few clues as the rest of the room, not to mention the stacks of dusty books were giving his allergies hell.  The chef slipped from the room, hoping to find better clues elsewhere.  He traversed the mansion, eying those he passed until he reached the Master Bedroom.

[Remiel]

*BONG* The huge grandfather clock in the foyer rings out only once, signalling that it is one a.m.

Sergeant Teal heard the clock chime out, and glanced at his watch, to confirm that the time was indeed 1:00 AM.  He was starting to become a bit worried--he still had no leads, and there were only five hours left before they would have to evacuate the house and close it off.  Sighing, he stalked down the corridor to the Trophy Room once more.  There was something odd about that room, something he couldn't quite put his finger on.

All the various heads and stuffed deer stared glassily at him, the light glinting off their lifeless eyes, and he made his way through the room.  There was definitely something off-putting about their expressions, as if they blamed him personally for the fact that their owner's murderer was still at large. 

He wasn't watching where he was going, and tripped over something.  He looked back to see what it was, and groaned--it was an outstretched arm.  The outstretched arm, in fact, of Madame Mocha.   

The killer had struck again, and right under his nose.  Knowing that the Trophy Room was linked to the Master Bedroom as well as the Wine Cellar, he knew that the killer could have struck from any one of the three rooms.

[Niferbelle]

Things were seeming to fall in place and Miss Brown felt her heart once again thrumming against her ribcage. A fleeting memory from earlier in the evening returned, something she'd thought inconsequential, and she dashed to the kitchen, more than a little out of breath by the time she burst in on Lady Lavender.

"Excellent idea," Miss Brown murmured, seeing that Lady Lavender was making a study of the cupboards. Miss Brown did the same but seemed to be looking at a specific one, after which her eyes widened in excitement. "I speak to Sergeant Teal!"

She turned to Lady Lavender. "Someone else should know what I suspect. I believe I know who is behind all this. I believe that Mr. Grey was killed here in the kitchen, with his own derringer, and that Chef Sage Green is the dastardly perpetrator!"

And with that she cried out for the detectives, hoping their arrival would be swift.

[Remiel]

"What's all the commotion?" shouted Sergeant Teal as he rushed into the kitchen, flanked by Detective Navy and a pair of other officers.   They listened quietly as Miss Brown explained her theory.  She pointed them to the roasting rack, where some deep grooves in the tile flooring indicated that it had been recently moved.  Between the able-bodied men, they were able to shove it aside: sure enough, there was a dark red splotch staining the black and white tiling. The murder had indeed taken place in the Kitchen.

Next, Miss Brown led them to the Trophy Room, where, tucked inside one of the garish display cases, they found the Derringer.  Examining the weapon closely, Teal found gunpowder residue on the barrel, and, opening the cylinder, discovered empty bullet shells--proof that the weapon had recently been fired.  They had the murder weapon.

Doubtless there were fingerprints upon the stock as well.  Carefully, Teal bagged the evidence.  All that remained, then, was to find their suspect -- Chef Sage Green. 

They found him in the Master Bedroom, talking to Major Mustard.  "Chef Sage Green," declared Teal, "you are under arrest." 

Major Mustard was shocked, but the Chef seemed anything but surprised.  His eyes darted left and right, seeking the nearest escape route.  With a mighty bellow, Sage Green sprinted for the exit--but was intercepted and tackled by Navy and the two officers.  Navy handcuffed his wrists together, and Sergeant Teal commenced to read the chef his rights.  He struggled and fought, but he was one man against four, and it wasn't long before he was manhandled down to the foyer.

Teal glanced around.  All of the guests had appeared at the noise, and watched as Sage Green was marched out of the mansion.  "Good work," he announced, "the murderer has been apprehended.  You are all free to go.  And very well done, Miss Brown; for you have solved the mystery of Mr. Grey's murder."