"Fair better in Death!" : A Red Death Campaign Journal

Discussing Masque of the Red Death
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Loethadai the Lurker
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"Fair better in Death!" : A Red Death Campaign Journal

Post by Loethadai the Lurker »

Hello all!! Having just started this campaign, I took the time to write up a "Story so far" thread in my own gaming group's forums. I guess you would call this a "Campaign Journal" entry. Due to the fact that we are only gaming once per month, I thought this a perfect way to keep track of everything, and provide a bit of entertainment for those who are not actually involved in the game. Since I spent so much time writing this, I thought maybe it was a bit wasted just having my small group of friends/players being able to view it, and I thought what better place to post something like this than here. Please forgive the writing. I'm not an author by any means, and my intention was to recap the events of the game, and how things have progressed. This also explains the reason why you don't see any written dialogue. But taken for what it is, I think it's pretty entertaining. You'll notice the different images to help enhance the storyline. The majority of these photos are of real people whom existed in the 1890's. Something you might find interesting on the side. The photos of William Lemp Sr., and is son, are well known to those whom live in the St. Louis area. They both committed suicide in their lavish Mansion, and the Mansion itself is said to be haunted even to this day. heehee You just can't beat this kind of background story for a game of this nature, especially when it's true! I hope you like it.

*To the forum Moderators: I wasn't completely sure as to where I should post this, so I went with the Gothic Earth section. If I've done this in error, please forgive my ignorance, and move this topic to the appropriate forum. Thank you for understanding.*

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"Fair better in Death!"- A Masque of the Red Death 2nd Edtion AD&D Campaign
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The Characters portrayed:
Dr. John Campbell--1st Level Spiritualist, specializing in Forensic Pathology
Jonathan Lemp--1st Level Dandy
Thomas Grimm--1st Level Detective
Anton Marcal--1st Level Laborer(Brick Layer)

Chapter One: "The Fund Raiser"
The year is 1898. The President of the United States is William Mckinley, and the Spanish American war has just begun. The late 1890's are a bustle with the "Spiritualist Movement", the ever progressing accomplishments of science, and the not so subtle machinations of the Industrial age. Inventions such as the "Magic Lantern"(i.e..Slide projector), and the "Amazing Cinematogrpah" or film projector are first coming to public light, and it seems there is nothing that the world of science can not conquer or explain. Yet for our adventurers this can only be described as the "Alpha" or the beginning of their "enlightenment". For there is a world within this world of science. A world steeped in superstition, paranormal, and the beyond. Whispers of something called the "Red Death" are spoken in back alleys, and dark districts. Tantalizing the curious, and horrifying those that learn too much.
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Pictured from left to right. The St. Louis bridge in the 1890's, The St. Louis Medical College, and common pedestrians of the day in the 1890's.
Scene 1:
Our story begins in the city of St. Louis, Missouri, appropriately called "The Gateway to the Mid-West". Its development in commerce, and notoriety is seemingly without end, and the St. Louis Landing itself is lit by hundreds of gaslights, turning the night into day, while providing a myriad of pleasures, delights, and entertainments. Dr. John Campbell, a former physician, whom now works in direct association with the St. Louis Police Department is awakened at approximately 2 a.m. by a series of knocks at his front door. The pale look on the police officer's face gives away the grimness of the situation, and without a word, the good doctor grabs his coat, and bag, and follows the officer to what could only be the scene of yet another murder. Dr. Campbell, having 10 years of practice under his belt as a physician, had been drawn into the world of Forensic investigation when he had been asked to look at the body of a murder victim, and discern how the person had died. After gaining some notoriety with his involvement on several murder investigations, Dr. Campbell gave up his practice in order to focus on his burgeoning forensic investigative practices. Thomas Grimm, a veteran of the Civil War now working for the famous Pinkerton Agency stood outside of the dark residence. Until this night, 1403 Market Street was a quiet apartment building. Housing small families, and hard working laborers, all with dreams of forging "The Good Life" for themselves, and their loved ones. Yet at approximately 12:30a.m., their restful nights sleep was shattered by the sounds of a struggle, followed by blood curdling screams, and a low resonating "thump". Trembling in fear the landlady Mrs. Connley used her skeleton key to open the door of the apartment where the horrific sounds had been heard. Nothing could describe the emotions she felt as she gazed at the naked body of Moira Kelly, a worker at a local textile factory. Her body was sprawled out on the floor next to her bed, the sheets drenched in blood. An 8 inch gash could be seen along her throat, along with gory flesh where her breasts once were as they appeared to have been cut off with a knife. Her throat stifled in fear, Mrs. Connley finally managed to let loose another scream, and ran out the door of the apartment. Fleeing in desperation, and coming close to falling down the stairs, Mrs. Connley ran into Tom Grimm, and felt somewhat at ease at the sight of the "Pinkerton Agency" Badge located on the left lapel of his dark brown duster. After surveying the scene, and interrogating Mrs. Connley, Mr. Grimm immediately notified the police. When the police arrived Mr. Grimm, well known to the local police department, explained to the sergeant on duty how he came to be at this location and the events involved. Dr. Campbell, arriving on the scene just a few minutes later conversed with Mr. Grimm, and then set about his newly acquired process of forensic investigation. The obvious cause of death was blood loss, and gauging by the size, and depth of the wounds, an extremely sharp knife was used. Upon further examination, Dr. Campbell discovered a blood spattered invitation to a fund raiser hosted by the well known business entrepreneur Robert Allerton. Dr. Campbell studied it closely. What was a simple textile worker doing with an invitation to a fundraiser, that is expected to have some of the wealthiest men in the world in attendance?

Mr. Grimm, a frequent patron of the "Suds Bucket" tavern not 2 blocks from this location had been enjoying a beer when he noticed an unsavory looking fellow with a scar across his right cheek, and an eye patch over his left eye. The man appeared very nervous as he gulped down two shots of whiskey, and when he noticed that several pairs of eyes were on him, he abruptly got up, and left the establishment. Mr. Grimm, acknowledging his instincts for trouble, made a point to follow the man. From a distance of about 100yards, Mr. Grimm had watched the man enter the apartment building at 1403 Market Street. Watching from across the street so as not to be noticed, Mr. Grimm waited for the man to come out. A few moments later, Mr. Grimm heard a scream come from inside the building, and he quickly rushed to investigate, nearly running over the frightened land lady Mrs. Connley. Upon conversing with Dr. Campbell, Mr. Grimm informed the Agency of what transpired and was ordered to investigate anything that might be going on at the Allerton Mansion, and this supposed fund raiser. Using his various contacts amongst the St. Louis police Department, Mr Grimm was able to acquire an invitation to the fundraiser. After informing Dr. Campbell of his plans, and recognizing the fact that Dr. Campbell had an invitation as well, they both quickly set about making travel plans in order to get to Monticello, Illinois, the home of Allerton Mansion, and the venue for this mysterious fund raiser. The next train leaving for Monticello, Illinois was on Friday evening at 8p.m.
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Pictured from left to right. William Lemp Sr., William Lemp Jr., and the Lemp Brewery located in St. Louis, Missouri

Mr. Jonathan Lemp, brother of William Lemp Jr., and son of the well known business man William Lemp Sr., of Lemp Brewery, was simply bored. He had led a life of luxury, and tossed money around like it was candy, and although he had basically been cut off by his father after a certain dispute about the ownership of a rare piece of jewelry, he still seemed able to at the very least, keep the appearance of money. Perception was everything. Bored with the lifestyle of the exceedingly rich, Jonathan delighted in the acquisition of valuable things. The legality of acquiring these many treasures was often in question, but due to his social status, and his keen ability at sleight of hand practices, he seldom was caught, and even when he was caught, his father often managed to buy his freedom. Letting out a sigh, Jonathan wandered around the mansion daydreaming of excitement, and reveling in his nefarious accomplishments. Not the least of which was a beautiful diamond broach. Said to be worn by Queen Victoria herself during her husband's coronation. Whether there was any truth to these rumors, or not, Jonathan cared little. It would have been by far his greatest achievement had it not been for a small patch of ice that he slipped on while trying to make his escape. He chuckled in remembrance. Coming to his senses Jonathan apparently had made his way into his fathers study. There sitting on his father's desk, was an invitation to a fund raiser for the "World's Fair in 1904". The city of St. Louis had been chosen for this grand event, and had been talked about all over the city for weeks. His father sat on the committee for this event, and was no doubt going to be one of it's major financial contributors. Jonathan smiled as he picked up the elegant invitation. What better place to acquire a few more treasures. Snatching the invitation, and pocketing it, he called for Martin, the Lemp's household butler, and had him make arrangements for traveling to Monticello, Illinois. The earliest train of course being the one leaving at 8p.m. on Friday evening.
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Jonathan knew of Robert Allerton, but didn't know much about the man. Taking the time to do a little research, Jonathan was able to glean quite a bit of information about the Allerton Family, and made a point to jot down notes, and commit any images of the family and estate he found to memory. Robert Allerton, never married, but adopted a young girl, and boy. Elizabeth Marie Allerton, and John Gregg Allerton. Robert Allerton was a principal in the building of the First National Bank of Chicago, and was the owner of five major Stock Yards, including the Union Stockyards of Chicago. He, and his son had a passion for art, and their estate certainly showed it. The 1500 acre estate is littered with various pieces, some old, and some new. Satisfied with his research. Jonathan began choosing which pieces of attire he was going wear to the event.

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Pictured from left to right. Anton Marcal, A photo of the construction crew that Anton had worked with while building a Church, and Elizabeth Allerton.

Anton Marcal, bricklayer, and laborer nervously fumbled with his tie. He was not accustomed to wearing such clothes, but desperately wanted to make a good impression on his fiancee Elizabeth Allerton. He was to meet her for dinner at a local establishment this evening and was running late. As Anton finally completed tying his tie, the familiar feeling of tight clothing around his neck reminded him of his days with clergy. He had once been a priest of the Catholic faith, later renouncing his vows of priesthood after learning of events, and practices in the clergy that he felt simply should not take place amongst men of god. Taking solace in the work of a laborer, Anton felt at peace with himself, and saw his work as another way to emulate Jesus, as he himself was not only the son of God, but a carpenter as well. Daughter of the well known businessman Robert Allerton, Elizabeth frequently took trips to St. Louis from Monticello, Illinois, taking in plays, and the occasional opera. Elizabeth met Anton while on her way home from an evening out on the town. The front axle of her carriage had become dislodged, and had forced the carriage to stop. The driver desperately trying to fix problem seemed baffled, and Anton, a passerby, offered his assistance in fixing the axle. Within a few minutes, the carriage was operational, and Elizabeth, being shy yet kindhearted, thanked the already smitten Anton. It wasn't more than a few months later that Anton found himself on one knee, proposing marriage to his beautiful Elizabeth. With great excitement, she accepted. The only obstacle involved was her father. She had not told her father that she was being courted by a young man, as she knew he would not approve of her suitor coming from such a common background as a "bricklayer". Resolute in their plans for marriage, the two of them decided to break the news to her father at the upcoming fundraiser being hosted at her father's residence. This done in the hopes that her father will be somewhat distracted by the event, and would be more apt to give his blessing, once he had seen how fine, and upstanding a man Anton truly was. Unfortunately, her father has recently fallen ill, and although his condition appears grim, his physicians fully expect him to recover. Whether or not the Gala would happen at all seemed to be in question, but with the urging of his son John, Robert agreed to continue with the fundraiser despite his current ailment. Although fearful of his reaction, Anton, and Elizabeth still plan on giving him the "good news" on the weekend of the Gala, and have set up travel arrangements planning to travel by train leaving on Friday night, at 8p.m.

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Scene 2: The Train to Monticello, Illinois

The characters all board Engine No. 14, which is bound for Monticello, Illinois, and then on to Indianapolis, Indiana. After settling in, all of the characters find their way to the "Lounge Car", where a bar is located, allowing the passengers to enjoy a drink while en route. Dr. Campbell, and Pinkerton Tom Grimm enjoy a drink, and discuss the murder of Moira Kelly in a corner of the car. Anton, and Elizabeth find a small table at the end of the bar, as Anton tries to console the worrisome Elizabeth about her ill father. Elizabeth takes a moment to visit the woman's lavatory, and freshen herself up. Anton, seeing the opportunity, makes his way to the end of the car, and steps outside on the car platform. Being the tail end car of the train, this afforded a splendid view of the country side. The moon being full, and on the rise, it produced sufficient enough light to see far out amongst the darkness. Shadows, and silhouettes danced all about the visible railroad tracks as the train passed over them. Edges of fathomless forests could be viewed as they passed by, although their details remained shrouded in darkness. Anton gazed at the all too bright moon, as he puffed on his cigar, and dreamed of living the rest of his life with Elizabeth. Jonathan Lemp, noting several beautiful young women in the "Lounge Car" quickly turned up the charm, regaling them with fantastical stories of bravery in which he was no doubt the valiant hero. None of them true of course. The girls giggled, and blushed as he smiled at them. He admired their voluptuous beauty, all the while paying particular attention to what jewelry they wore, and whether or not it was in fact real. Wanting to allow the ladies chance talk about him amongst themselves. Jonathan excuses himself, and makes his way to the back of the car, and outside on the platform where Anton was standing. As he was just about to light a cigar of his own, out of the corner of his eye, he notices a faint glow that appears to be far off in the distance, and seemed to be getting brighter. Watching it closely, the glow appeared to be gaining speed and looked as if it was following the railroad tracks in pursuit of their train. He pointed this out to the daydreaming Anton, and they both watched the frightening visage getting closer, and closer. A deafening sound of a steam whistle pierced their ears, and was followed by the sound a steam engine chugging it's way toward them at incredible speed. Running frantically, Jonathan, and Anton claw their way back inside the car, desperately trying to warn the other passengers.
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The engineer, spotting the glow, and hearing the sound of the engine, increases the train's speed in the hopes of out running the oncoming train. Dr. Campbell, and Detective Grimm both stood up in astonishment as the incredibly bright light over took them. Too their horror, the locomotive suddenly took spectral form, and began passing through the passenger train, as if it didn't exist. Dr. Campbell, and Mr. Grimm, frozen in fear, watched as each spectral car passed through their bodies, leaving them with a most unholy cold feeling, and the sensation of a thousand needles prickling their way along their skin. Spectral passengers could be seen as the cars went by. A spectral conductor punched a screaming woman's ticket as she held it in her trembling hand and then abruptly fainted falling to the floor. Anton, frantically looking for Elizabeth, makes his way forward only to find himself at the engine, and tender. He watched in horror as the Engineer screaming at the top of his lungs leaps from the train trying to save himself. The train is moving at an incredible speed. Trying to regain his senses, Anton notices the steam pressure gauge is dangerously in the red, and the engine is poised to blow. Desperately trying to relieve the pressure, Anton hangs on the Steam Whistle chain screaming, and praying for a miracle, but it was too late. With a loud screetch of metal on metal, the engine explodes totally destroying the engine, and throwing the poor Anton back into the first passenger car. The train is speeding completely out of control, and as a result derails at a bend in the tracks. A loud crash takes place as passengers are thrown throughout the cars, and the glass of shattering windows showers the unfortunate victims. After a seemingly long skid, the cars come to a complete stop. Sobs, and Crying can be heard throughout the wreck, as some lay dead, while most lie injured and dazed. Anton, although injured, comes to his senses, and begins to frantically call out for Elizabeth. As he looks out from the mangled pieces of metal, he sees a young woman who has been thrown from the train, and is laying out in clearing. It's Elizabeth. Ignoring his injuries, he jumps from the side of the train, and rushes to Elizabeth's side. She is not crying, but appears to be in a daze, and is looking at her right arm. Anton looks at the arm, and can see that it is clearly broken, as part of the bone is protruding through the skin. Dr. Campbell, and Detective Grimm make their way outside of the wreckage, and Dr. Campbell quickly tends to Elizabeth's arm. Jonathan, seeing the opportunity, begins to "help" the confused, and dazed passengers, all the while gingerly picking their pockets for anything of value. During these "transactions", he manages to peer out one of a shattered passenger car windows, and focuses on the events transpiring out in the clearing next the wrecked train. Seeing no immediate need to put himself in any further danger, he continues to "help" the passengers gaining a profit of nearly $50 Dollars, and some various pieces of antiquated jewelry.
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As they all survey the scene, a howl is heard piercing the night air. The characters glance around nervously searching for the source of the howl. Detective Grimm is the first to see them. Pairs of glowing red eyes appear from the treeline. As they emerge from the darkness, six wolves are seen. Without hesitation Grimm opens fire with his army pistol, severely wounding three of them. Anton desperately tries to drag the still dazed Elizabeth away, but is just too weak from his wounds. A couple of the wolves lunge, and snap at Dr. Campbell, and Tom Grimm, mildly wounding them. Taking careful aim. Tom fires another three rounds, blowing the head off of one of the wolves, and causing the others to flee. Dr. Campbell sets Elizabeth's broken arm, and does his best to help as many of the wounded as he can. The characters find themselves in the middle of no where, in the darkness of night, and with no means of transportation. After all they went through, and the sudden attack of wolves, Dr. Campbell, Anton, and Jonathan all search the remains of the "Baggage Car" for their luggage, and more importantly their weapons. For after tonight's events, having ones weapons close at hand seems to be a necessity. End Gaming Session 1!
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Loethadai the Lurker
Agent of the Fraternity
Agent of the Fraternity
Posts: 59
Joined: Tue Sep 21, 2010 11:12 am
Location: St. Louis, Missouri

Re: "Fair better in Death!" : A Red Death Campaign Journal

Post by Loethadai the Lurker »

"Fair Better in Death!" Masque of the Red Death Gaming Session 2!

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Dr. John Campbell

The Harvest Moon, now at it's apex, shined brightly on our wayward adventures. The air was cold, and windy, and the occasional moan, and sob of wounded passengers could still be heard. Dr. John Campbell created a make shift triage area for the wounded, and tended to their needs as much as he could. The darkness didn't help matters, and the camp fires only afforded a small amount of light, but he managed. Detective Grimm stood watch. Scanning the tree lines for any sign of the wolves return. Satisfied that any immediate danger had passed, he holstered his revolver, and walked over to see how Anton, and Elizabeth were doing. Anton Marcal sat near the fire holding his fiancee Elizabeth Allerton in his arms, occasionally checking the sling, and swath that Dr. Campbell had applied to her broken arm, making sure she was as comfortable as possible. As the Detective watched the gathered people, he noticed Jonathan Lemp, going from passenger, to passenger, offering his "assistance". The Detective's trained eye could not be fooled, and just as Lemp was about to relieve another passenger of their pocketbook, he confronted him. He had been caught red handed, and was forced to give up his "earnings" to the Detective. With a reluctant moan Mr. Lemp did as he was instructed, and knew, that at least for the remainder of this trip, he was going to be watched very closely.

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Victorian Era Buckboard

After speaking with one of the conductors, the party is told that the Train Company will be sending another train, and a host of medical supplies to help the remaining passengers within a few hours. As the night wore on, and daybreak approached, a local farmer happened upon the scene. The old buckboard rolled through the area slowly, the farmers eyes wide with surprise, and bewilderment. Anton speaks with the Farmer, and relays to him how urgent it is for he, and his fiancee to get to Monticello, Illinois as quickly as possible. Although wounded, Elizabeth could not help but worry about her fathers condition, and wanted to get to his side as soon as possible. The Farmer agrees to take them as far as Pawnee, Illinois where a Stagecoach is supposed arrive that day. Johnathan Lemp seeing the opportunity to get out from under the watchful eyes of the Pinkerton Thomas Grimm, offers to pay the Farmer $20 Dollars for a ride as well. Much to his chagrin, Jonathan was surprised to see both the Pinkerton, and the good doctor climb in the buckboard as well. Detective Grimm gave Mr. Lemp a knowing wink once he got settled in the back of the buckboard, and they all rolled off. Dr. Campbell, satisfied that he had done all he could do for the wounded passengers took advantage of the farmer's generosity as well. He knew that what they had experienced was not of this world, and what ever sinister force was behind it must be dealt with immediately. His only lead was a blood spattered invitation to a Gala, taking place at Allerton Mansion. With the sun not yet visible, the buckboard headed east northeast, and on to Pawnee, Illinois.

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Wells Fargo Stagecoach

The party arrives in Pawnee about an hour later. They find a "General Store", and are able to procure tickets to Monticello, Illinois on the stagecoach due to arrive that morning. While they wait, they explore the town a bit, finding it not much different than any other small Midwestern town. With the sun showing just a glint of it's magnificence, the stagecoach arrives, and the party boards, still somewhat shaken by the events of last night, and entirely unsure of what lies ahead. Forced to ride inside with the troublesome Pinkerton, Johnathan tries to get some sleep. Were it not for a few snorts of whiskey, he might not have succeeded. Especially with the coach bouncing, and swaying to, and fro. With Anton's arm wrapped around her, Elizabeth attempts the same, laying her head gently upon his chest. Anton gazes out the stagecoach window, as it makes it's way closer to Monticello, and Allerton Mansion. The sun has barely broken the horizon now, and it's light gleams in rays through the Illinois flatland vegetation, steam rising from the cold evaporating dew. Suddenly, Anton notices some sort of creature galloping along side the stagecoach. Effortlessly, it keeps pace with the coach, it's steaming breath puffing out it's maw with each gallop. Anton looks closer to find it's one of the wolves that had attacked them in the night, but much larger. His heart pounding in fear, he looks to find all the other passengers fast asleep. When he looks back out the coach, the creature is gone. Thinking that his experience was simply due to sheer exhaustion, Anton lowers his bowler over his eyes, and tries to fall asleep.

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Allerton Mansion pictured above.

It wasn't until late afternoon that the party arrived at the Allerton Estate. The motley group pulled themselves out of the stagecoach, trying to wipe off the dust from the road, and the sleep in their eyes. There to greet them were the servants, and Robert Allerton's son, John Gregg Allerton. With a grim look on his face he approaches Elizabeth, and asks to speak with her privately. They speak for a moment, and without warning Elizabeth collapses in tears, having been informed that her father had died the night before. Anton rushing to her side, does his best to comfort her. He then, along with other members of the household staff, escort Elizabeth up to her room. The rest of the party is welcomed by John Allerton, and are shown to their rooms, allowing them a chance to freshen up.

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That evening, the characters mingle a bit with many of the guests, and dignitaries who are all here for the Gala in the mansion's parlor. Many pay their respects to Robert Allerton, his body on display in the adjoining room. Several of the visitors became tearful as they approached the coffin, as he was well respected by many of his friends, and family. Dr. John Campbell studied the corpse closely, noting the constant drip of water from the blocks of ice underneath the coffin, a common day practice to help preserve the body until burial. Humming to himself, he placed his bag atop the lower portion of the coffin, and opened it. Producing a magnifying glass from the bag, he leaned over the body, and began to study the body's hands, and head closely. The doctor retrieves a scalpel from his bag, and once again leans over the body as if to perform some sort of surgical procedure or autopsy, but before he could make his first incision, he was stopped by Detective Grimm, noting that this would be highly inappropriate without consent, and furthermore the other guests appeared horrified by what the Doctor was doing. He let out a curious "hmph" as he placed his tools back in the bag, and strode off in obvious disappointment. With the ringing of a bell, and a polite "Dinner, is served!" from one of the servants, the party, and guests then enter the dining room for a well deserved meal. The conversation is polite, albeit a little stale, and the party relays the tragic events of the Train Accident being careful not to mention the spectral train, and it's ghostly passengers. Tempting as it may be, they thought it better to keep that part of the story quiet, for now. After dinner, the gentlemen retire to the parlor, and the ladies to their rooms. Smoking cigars, and drinking brandy, the gentlemen discuss politics, and the coming "World's Fair". Although feeling sincerely out of place, the party does it's best to mingle, and hobnob with the rich, and powerful. Detective Grimm makes a point to speak with John Allerton, and asks him if anything out of the ordinary has happened at the mansion recently, outside of the obvious death of Robert Allerton, and if he had ever heard of a woman by the name of Moira Kelly. John seemed to avoid these questions, and only gave short cryptic answers, appearing nervous, and flustered. As the night wore on, the characters interviewed a few members of the servant staff, and were surprised to hear of strange happenings in the house. Phantom footsteps, strange knocks coming from the walls, and objects being placed in one area, only to be found elsewhere. Although this was all of the information gleaned from the staff, the characters were quick to notice how nervous, and strangely disturbed the staff appeared during their conversations.

Retiring for the evening, the party heads to their rooms ready for a comfortable nights sleep. Anton, stays at Elizabeth's side, and does his best to comfort his traumatized fiancee as she sleeps, the Laudanum the doctor gave her serving it's purpose well . Sitting in a high back chair next to her bed, Anton dozes off to sleep, but is soon awakened by the sound of a low resonating moan. Looking about the room, his eyes train on a large portrait of Robert Allerton hanging above the fireplace. The moaning grew louder, and louder, and as Anton sank back into his chair with fear, he watched Robert Allerton's portrait seemingly come to life in the form of a ghostly visage, pulling itself free of the canvass, and floating in mid air. The apparition appeared to be trying to tell Anton something, and was waving it's hands frantically as if trying to warn him. With questioning eyes, and a terrified expression, Anton watched this display in complete horror. A few moments later, a pair of spectral hands came out of the painting, and grabbed the unsuspecting apparition, pulling him back into the portrait, leaving a slimy residue oozing out of it's pores.
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Jonathan Lemp, smiling after hobnobbing with some of his old friends, makes his way down the west wing hallway towards his own chambers. Stopping for a moment to think on the days events, he takes a drink of the finally aged Brandy in his right hand, and then puffs a few times on the smoking cigar in his left. As he pondered, he suddenly hears a feint baying, and howling of what could only be described as dogs. Looking to his right, he notices an interesting painting of a fox hunt, it's numerous hounds sprawling through tall grass, as it's gentlemen hunters galloped behind on horseback. To his horror, all of the painting's occupants appeared to animate, and move about as if viewing the event through a portal in time. With the sounds of the dogs, and galloping horses growing ever louder, Jonathan is startled by the trumpeting sound of a fox horn. Having sheer terror in his eyes, Jonathan drops his drink, and cigar, and runs down the hallway, occasionally looking back to see if anything followed. Having been completely disturbed by the recent events, Jonathan spends the rest of the night in the parlor, seated in a lush chair in front of the hearth, staring at the fire, and taking an occasional gulp of Brandy from a fine crystal decanter.

The following morning, except for Jonathan Lemp, and Anton Marcal, the characters arise feeling quite rested. Anton, and Jonathan relayed their stories of terror to the rest of the party, and with much trepidation, they all attended the funeral of Robert Allerton. The sky was cloudy, and overcast, and the wind delivered a cool chill as the party, and guests watched Robert Allerton's coffin being lowered into the grave . With a final "In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti", the catholic priest completed the ceremony, and then began to tend to those who needed his counsel. A gathering was held after the funeral as a celebration of Robert Allerton's life, and the legacy he left behind. His son John Gregg Allerton gave a rousing speech, praising all of the guests for their fervor, and faith in what his father coined "The undiscovered world of Science!". He then invited the party, and guests to an afternoon round of croquet while sipping on tea, and munching on biscuits. He assured them that tomorrow night's Gala would be an event to remember, and one that will be talked about for many years to come.
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The following evening boasted unparalleled splendor, and fine decorum. Dressed in the most eloquent of formal attire, the guests were in awe of the Ballroom, and it's extravagant trappings. A "feast of kings" could only partially describe the amount of wondrous foods that lined the many serving tables. An orchestra constantly played familiar melodies as many of the guests rhythmically danced, and swayed to the music, laughing in delight while they twirled about the dance floor. The characters intermingled as best they could, keeping a watchful eye for anything out of the ordinary. The grandiose event seemed to go on, and on, while multiple bottles of Champagne added to it's dizzying effect on those in attendance.

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Later in the evening, Detective Grimm took refuge at a table relatively close to the dance floor and sipped on a cup of coffee, trying to remain alert. As he raised his cup to his lips, he noticed something odd out on the dance floor. There appeared to be someone standing in the center, as the dancing couples twirled around him. Detective Grimm could see glimpses of a mans legs, and feet, but they appeared to be dancing in a rather odd fashion. Suddenly, gasps from the guests on the dance floor are heard, as they all stagger back in fear of what stood before them. There standing in the center of the dance floor, was the body of Robert Allerton, swaying back, and forth to the music, like a macabre marionette with an unseen puppeteer. Clumps of dirt fall from his shoulders, and arms, as his head lolls back, and forth, his eyes glazed with a sickly white appearance. Multiple maggots are seen worming their way out of his skin, and dropping to the floor, wiggling and searching for their next meal. Having noticed the abomination's presence, the orchestra immediately stops playing, and scrambles their way out of the Ballroom, the like minded guests following quickly behind. Several of the women scream in terror, not just in fear of the creature, but also because of the many guests being trampled by one another. To make matters worse, six Skeleton creatures smash their way into the Ballroom through the French doors that lead outside to the veranda, and the small lake beyond, each holding some form of weapon. The characters steel their nerves, and prepare for the coming battle. All of them brandish some form of firearm, and begin to take aim, and shoot. After what seemed to be an incredibly long firefight, the party manages to defeat the undead interlopers, and after all is said, and done, they find not only the Ballroom empty, but the mansion as well. It's inhabitants having fled for their very lives.

*End Gaming Session 2*
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