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Dr. H. Griffin

Dr. H. Griffin

@DrHGriffin 2 years ago

((A return to Jonathan Cheshire and a continuation of his and Malemi's feud. Be afraid. Be very afraid.))

Anna Cheshire looked toward her son playing in the corner of the study. Matthew had been away from his father nearly half a year. On the second week it had become worrying. Why had Jonathan left so abruptly? Why had he left his wife and only son alone, with practically all his money? Alas, Anna had only a faint inkling of an answer to those questions. For instance, she didn't know that her husband had been turned permanently invisible, or attacked by a monstrous being, or threatened by a criminal mastermind and or left the country. On the third month, she had considered electing a suitor. Jonathan hadn't sent any letters since his fateful goodbye, and she had considered him as good as dead. Matthew, on the other hand, had not considered his father dead. That had pleased Anna.

"Dinner's nearly ready, Matthew." she called. She had fired their maid, Jean, after the few months of Jonathan's disappearance; the money was quickly running out. Anna had persevered in domestic tasks, particularly cooking for the two of them. The dinner itself was a bowl of tomato soup, with a small basket of bread as a side. It seemed perfectly ordinary, that is, until the saucepan that was holding the soup turned itself over.

"Oh!" Anna shrieked in reply, starting back as the soup spread on the tiled kitchen floor. Matthew had looked over, but then went back to playing with his toys. Being naive, it didn't occur to him that anything was wrong. Anna folded her arms, more puzzled than angry. She hadn't touched the pan, and yet it fell. It was on the centre of the table, yet it fell on the floor? It was certainly strange.

Not a few moments later, one of Matthew's toys, a wooden duck; had begun to move on it's own accord. Then the candles on the dinner table had begun to go out one by one, despite there being no draught from the windows. The chairs, once tucked into the table, had begun levitating as if they had been picked up by some invisible force. Anna was starting to become afraid.

She raced across the room, ducking under the rising chairs, and grabbed Matthew quickly. Anna paced to the door leading down into the street, but it had closed quickly with a slam. It had locked itself. Anna tried pulling the door, but it wouldn't budge. She remembered a key in Jonathan and her's bedroom, and began running to it. But then the door to her bedroom closed. Then the toilet's next to it; then Matthew's, then the kitchen's. It was like the house was coming alive.

Matthew was moving in her arm's, trying to break free and see what was happening. "Mummy, what's going on?" he asked her curiously.

"I... I don't know, sweetie." she replied, as she looked back to the hectic study. Almost at once, Matthew was pried from her arms by something that couldn't be seen, and was dragged roughly around the floor. He didn't scream; in fact it was the polar opposite, Matthew was giggling. Anna chased after him as he went under the dinner table, under Jonathan's untouched desk, and back to where he was. She was crying frantically, closing her eyes. She turned to the windows, perhaps she could call for help into the night.

"Help! Help us!" she shouted as she pounded hard on the tall window. Then, as if from everywhere in the room, some monstrous thing was laughing.

"Ahahaheh... Nobody is going to, Mrs. Cheshire..." the thing replied, before she was thrusted away from the windows by something invisible.

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The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

( AAaaah, There's nothing like the smell of fear in the morning... )

Mrs. Cheshire was swiftly thrown to the ground, her assailant still nowhere to be seen. The room was deathly cold and there was the feeling of something standing right above her. A wicked delight emanated from the thing as it hissed its next words.

" Don't think you're going to escape me so quickly! You're paying for something very important... "

--

Truth be told, this wasn't about gathering hosts anymore. Malemi had dropped the idea entirely just a few weeks ago. It wasn't worth the time and effort, besides, he never gave much thought to what he'd actually do with one.

But all that didn't excuse the wild goose chase Cheshire had put him through.

Of all the things that he'd been through, that was one of the most infuriating, useless, OBNOXIOUS experiences he had ever been put through. It was only fair if he did the same to Cheshire. If anything, this was a gift. God forbid he do worse

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Burke had been hired by Cheshire four months ago to watch his employer's family. Cheshire had paid him handsomely for the subsequent months, and had told him to report anything that would be unseemly to him immediately. And so, watching the Cheshire flat for the hundredth time, Burke saw Anna Cheshire pound on the window before being thrown backwards by something that wasn't there.

Burke immediately tossed his dinner to the ground, and ran for the nearest inn, The Northern Lights. Cheshire was in one of those rooms; and though Burke was slightly worried for Mrs. Cheshire and her son's safety, he was more concerned of what Cheshire would pay him for this development.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

The presence above Anna moved away and vanished, the echoes of cruel laughter the last thing she could hear. Malemi swiftly moved from room to room, scoping out the house with a keen eye. Good, good...This was going to be fun...

Purring to himself, he made his way back to the child and hovered over him. He managed his friendliest tone as he addressed to naive victim.

" Hello~ What would your name be? "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew stood frozen for one moment, perplexed by what was happening.

"Matthew." he replied in a quiet voice.

---

Burke darted into the inn and sped through the bustling drinkers. Getting up the staircase, he noticed Cheshire's room at the end: Room 6.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

" Matthew? What a fine name...I'm Slyly~ I would like to be your friend. Would you be mine? "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew hesitated for a few seconds. He had a few imaginary friends in his early days. Maybe this was another one? He nodded reluctantly.

--

Burke rapped rapidly on the door, himself out of breath. A few moments later, the door opened. The man inside was completely covered from head to toe. His head was hidden by a thick scarf, a pair of sunglasses, a bushy brown wig and a tight fitting hat. The man wore dark gloves on his hands, but if one looked hard enough, you could see that there was nothing between the glove and the cuff.

"What is it, Burke?" Jonathan Cheshire asked.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Malemi let out a light purr. This was going well already, now all he needed to do was move the child out of the way for later.

He settled down near the boy and spoke softly.

" Fantastic~ I'm glad to hear. Now, what sort of games do you like? "

Towards the end of his tail, a shadows began to gather into a little spot, just about the size of a crown.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

"Hide and seek." Matthew mumbled. He was starting to become afraid, but also suspicious, something he had never experienced before. He looked over to his mother for guidance, but an unconscious body on the floor wasn't going to help.

-

"It's your family, Mr. Cheshire; I think something's wrong. I saw your wife at the window screaming her head off." Burke replied.

Without any warning, Cheshire ran past Burke and down the inn's stairs.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" Then let's play! What better way to play than in the dark! You hide and I'll seek sounds good? "

An innocent smile could be felt from Malemi's unseen form while the little spot behind him grew.

" All the door are unlocked, so you can hide wherever you like... "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

"What about Mummy?" asked Matthew. "I want her to play too."

-

Cheshire raced out of the inn and picked a path through the streets to his former home; all the while taking off everything he was wearing. Luckily it was night so no one could really see him do it.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" Don't worry about her, she can play later. Right now, it's just the two of us. Let's start hmm?"

Malemi closed his eyes and began counting down from ten. The spot behind him vanished and came up behind Matthew.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew looked around the study. Strategic hiding was not one of Matthew's strong points, and so had decided to hide in his own room. He crawled under the bed quietly, and waited to be found by Slyly.

---

At last, Cheshire could see the flat. The lights were all out. Whatever was happening, it wasn't good. Cheshire darted across the street, and opened the front door.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

The door flew open to an empty scene. Nobody could be seen save for Anna, who's body lay limp in the air, held by some unseen force. An all to familiar laugh echoed out from the house and Anna's body was pushed forward into Cheshire's arms.

A loud whisper entered his ear with the feeling of utter cold.

" Well well, The lost husband finally finds his way home. We ought to throw a celebration hmm? Or perhaps a little game? "

Another spiel of laughter rang out before a shadowy blur rocketed up the ceiling and hung there with a vicious grin.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire grabbed Anna carefully and placed her down quickly but gently. That voice... His voice...

"You!" Cheshire exclaimed, looking at the blur.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" Shhhh...Not so loud. You'll ruin Matthew's fun and we wouldn't want that would we? "

Six shining eyes opened up, looking at Cheshire with a cunning glint. He smirked at the outraged man, slamming the door behind him with a sharp slam. Malemi growled at Cheshire with a wave of his tail.

" I'm surprised to see you honestly. I'd have thought you were too much of a coward to come back, with your invisibility and all. "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire didn't know what to do. He had no weapons, no line of defense. Truth be told, he had nothing at all, and was nothing at all. Cheshire didn't expect to find Malemi in his former home, neither threatening his family, especially his son.

"Don't you dare speak of my son, you ungodly bastard!" Cheshire shouted at the eyes.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" Or what Little Thief? You have no one to help now," He growled," Especially no woman with a GUN. "

Malemi dropped down to the floor, his six arms spreading out in menacing fashion. He glared down Cheshire with teeth fully bared.

" Now how will you get out of this Little Thief... "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire didn't know how he was to get out of this. He didn't know what to do. His family would be tormented by this creature, and he would be powerless to stop it.

"Why can't you just let my family go?" Cheshire asked, or more appropriately, pleaded. "They've done nothing to you. Spare them and... And you can have me instead."

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Malemi narrowed his eyes, his voice bordering on a full on roar. His pelt stood up in righteous anger.

" Why should I?! I offered you a solution for your pitiful situation and what do you do? You go and throw me to the side and run like the RAT YOU ARE!!! And now you offer yourself?!

It's past that Cheshire! This is PAYBACK for the HELL YOU GAVE ME!! "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire stepped over his beloved Anna, and breathed deeply.

"Then don't harm my family!" he retorted. "If you are to have payback then inflict the damage on me as I did you! If that'll placate your rage, then do it!"

He edged forward again, and spoke as loud as he could.

"BUT DON'T YOU DARE ATTACK MY FAMILY AGAIN!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

There was silence at first.

Malemi stared at Cheshire with wide eyes, a wide grin spreading over his face. He charged at Cheshire and pushed him against the wall, his glowing eyes burning with pleasure.

" MAKE ME. "

With that, he vanished, his laughter deafening. The house around Cheshire groaned and creaked, the shadows around him churning with rapid energy. Malemi's voice echoed out to Cheshire from all around him.

" COME CATCH ME IF YOU CAN! "

--

A dark shadow slipped underneath Matthew's door and sat on top of his bed. Malemi's called out to him with a playful tone.

" Maaaatthew...Maaaaaathew! Where are you? "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire collapsed when Malemi dropped him, all the air knocked right out of him. He stood up, and stumbled across the living room. He needed to see if Matthew was alright.

Matthew was still hiding under the bed when he heard the playful, yet mistakenly sinister call of Slyly. He didn't make a sound; either as part of the game or fear, he didn't know.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Malemi moved from the bed to the ground, a purr rumbling from his throat as he feigned searching for him. He lifted up pillows with a curious sniff.

" Matthew? Hmmmm...Where could Matthew be? "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire grasped the doorknob to Matthew's bedroom, but it wouldn't turn. It was stuck.

--

Matthew giggled at Slyly, but immediately covered his mouth, realising his mistake.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" Aah! There you are! "

He shifted his six eyes to two and looked down at Matthew. His ears pulled forward in some friendly expression as he offered a hand to help the boy out from underneath. He wore a closed lipped smile, not wanting to spook the child.

" You're very good at hiding! I wouldn't have thought to look there. "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew took Slyly's hand, relieved now that the game was over.

---

Cheshire banged on the door loudly.

"Matthew! Matthew! Are you in there?!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Once the boy was out, Malemi pulled him close and whispered happily.

" Now that we're done here, I've got a surprise for you. Do you know who's behind the door? "

His tail curled in joyous rapture as he couldn't help but imagine Cheshire's dismay at what he was about to do.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew shook his head. He heard someone knocking loudly on the door, and a faint voice, but he couldn't tell who it was.

-

Cheshire continued rapping on the door.

"Matthew! Please! Open the door!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" It's a friend of mine, and he wants to play with us too! He wants to play tag so when I open the door, you have to run as fast as you can alright? "

He looked to the door with coy look and went up to the handle.

" Just know this, he likes tag so much, he'll do anything to catch you. He might even pretend to sound like someone else. "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew nodded at every Slyly said, as if in some sort of trance.

---

"Matthew... for goodness sake! Open this door, right now! I'm your-"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

The door swung open, throwing Cheshire back against the wall. With a quiet chuckle, he dipped down into the shadows and sped down to where Anna lay.

Placing one hand on her body, he made her sink into a pool of darkness, joining her beneath the surface and taking her elsewhere in the house.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew at first didn't run, he just stared at the empty space behind the door. There wasn't anyone there, as far as he could see. So, who was knocking at the door.

Matthew quickly sped past, before seeing his mother sinking in a strange puddle of black. He promptly screamed before being picked up and then hugged by an invisible man. It was odd, as if the invisible man had the same hug as his father.

"Matthew! Oh, Matthew, thank goodness!" the voice of his father cried out.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

Anna's body reemerged in the living room, Malemi following swiftly afterwards. Looking around him, he quickly stood her up and vanished from sight. Hold her arms as though she were a puppet, he oriented his extra limbs where they would be needed.

He chuckled to himself once he found a satisfying position and turned Anna away from the room's entrance. Now to wait...

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

"Father?" Matthew replied, amazed at how he was floating in mid-air, and yet he felt human skin hugging him.

"Yes, Matthew it's me. I'll explain this later." Cheshire replied, visible tears moving down his invisible face.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Where was Cheshire? He should be racing around the house by now and cursing at every shadow he passed! Why wasn't he down here yet. Malemi flexed his claws anxiously, wondering what could be keeping the thief from finding him.

Then it hit him.

He never did say that "his friend" was invisible...The kid may as well have caught on the get go.

Malemi bit his tongue to keep from screaming out. Goddamnit! He should've never assumed the kid could outrun an adult! There goes his distraction.

But all was not lost...he still had the woman, and so long as he had her, he could still fix this. Thinking fast, He let out a purposeful roar, hoping that he would be heard through the closed door. If he could lure Cheshire down here at least, he could trap him and do as he pleased...

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Matthew slightly whimpered at the roar. Cheshire on the other hand flinched. No doubt Malemi. Cheshire put Matthew down, and clutched his shoulders.

"Now, Matthew, I want you to listen to me. Go through the front door of our house and go down to the park, you understand. Wait in the park for me. You understand?"

"Okay, father." Matthew replied, before running through the front door, and descending down the stairs, out of Cheshire's view. He tried not to break down. Whatever was behind the living room would frighten him, and he had nothing to fight it with. Wait, the kitchen!

Cheshire leapt into the kitchen, and took out a long and narrow knife from one of the drawers. Going back, he grasped the door knob and went through into the unknown.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

There, in the center of the room, stood his wife Anna, her back turned to him in the dark room. Malemi was nowhere to be seen despite to oppressive air that choked the room. She turned around, her eyes open and unfocused.

She looked towards the open door and called out in a weak, unnatural voice.

~" Who....Whose there? "~

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

"A- Anna?" Cheshire replied, stepping forward. "Is that you?"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

~" What? Cheshire? W-what? How? Where are you? "~

She grew anxious and confused, her eyes searching for someone who wasn't there. She backed away, growing frightened.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire? She never calls me that. She always calls me Jonathan. He gripped the knife tighter. Something wasn't right. The air smelled funny.

"I'm here, darling. I'll explain this later; just follow my voice, it's alright."

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

~" B-but that creature!! And y-you!! What are you doing here?! "~

She backed up against the wall, looking about the room with growing fear. Anna looked as though she was about to cry, her body trembling with fright.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

"I know, I know, but I had to leave. If I stayed... please just come to me, we need to leave." Cheshire replied, edging closer. Why won't she listen to me?

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

~" If you had stayed?! What do you mean? Was it cause of this THING?! How am I to trust you when you won't even show yourself!? "~

She knelt down to the floor and wept into her hands. She sobs rang throughout the room, not wanting to look up.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

"Because I'm invisible!" Cheshire blurted out, moving toward her. Slowly, he placed a hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking right. There was this man who... He threatened to... I..."

"I shouldn't have left you and Matthew alone."

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

The was a palpable pause in the air. His wife stopped crying and looked up, her face devoid of any tears or emotions. Her body went slack and fell into his arms, her eyes rolling up into her skull.

Malemi emerged, pulling away from her body, and stood staring at Cheshire. His gaze burned into the man, his face deep in thought. His ears tucked back, He himself unsure how to continue.

He certainly had wanted to torture him further, but what he just heard made him confused. He didn't know someone was chasing the thief. He had just thought that Cheshire was some low life robber who cared little about what happened to others.

If anything, he thought his attitude towards his family was all for show, a weak display to ward him off. Now that he knew why he might've had left his family...It left him bewildered. Cheshire was a thief, so he had to be a bad person, but he cared for his family enough to protect by leaving, which wasn't bad?

Malemi looked at the ground, unsure how to even continue on with his revenge.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire grasped his wife, shaking her, pleading for her to do something. "Anna? Anna! Anna!"

He looked up, and saw the twisted monster who had tormented him and his family. Cheshire gritted his teeth. His anger blinded his confusion at the monster's inactivity.

"Well? What are you waiting for? Have your resolution!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Nothing happened.

Malemi simply sat there dumbfounded. He looked up to meet Cheshire's gaze and narrowed his eyes. His mouth opened to speak but nothing came.

His thoughts kept running through the same circle of thought. His hands clenched into fists, and shook with violent emotion. The air grew warm, Malemi steadily growing more and more angry. Why couldn't he think this through!? Why did Cheshire have to be so confounding?!?

A roar ripped through his throat and shook the room, thick smoke blasting up from his body with volcanic fury.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire tensed and tightly gripped Anna's unconscious body. If Malemi was trying to scare Cheshire, he was succeeding. But he knew it wasn't Malemi's intention.

"What are you waiting for?" Cheshire now calmly asked.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

His question was met with snapping teeth. Malemi lunged forward with a snarl and pinned Cheshire down. His claws sank into his skin, drawing blood.

" Be QUIET you!! You GOOD FOR NOTHING RAT! Be thankful I haven't ripped you apart yet!! "

More smoke billowed up, making the air hard to breathe.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Cheshire tensed at the pain, coughed at the growing density of smoke.

"Then why haven't you?!" Cheshire replied, as the blood pouring from his shoulder became visible.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

Malemi slammed his whole weight on Cheshire, his teeth inches away from the man's throat.

" BE. QUIET. "

The room rippled with turbulent shadows, the darkness shuddering and flickering, like a storm at sea. He glared daggers down at the invisible man then looked back to Anna. Malemi forced his thoughts away. It didn't matter if this man was good or not, all men are evil. This was about revenge and nothing else.

In silent anger, his tail curled around her legs and got off of Cheshire. He turned away so Cheshire couldn't see his face.

" I'm taking her... "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

"What? No! No no no! Take me instead! Please! She's done nothing to you! She is nothing to you!" Cheshire pleaded desperately. "Please, I beg of you, take me instead! PLEASE!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" I'm TAKING her and you can't STOP me. "

Dark binds wrapped around Cheshire, taking him by his arms and legs. With a snap, Malemi forced Anna awake. He loomed over her and held her down as he did Cheshire.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire wriggled and writhed in his bonds, trying in vain to get out, but he couldn't. Anna drearily opened her eyes and tried to focus on the shapeless thing holding her down. When it did, she promptly screamed.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Malemi winced at her scream and promptly put a hand to her mouth. He leaned in with a low hiss, pulling her head from side to side, looking her over with a cold look.

" Good...I was wondering if you'd wake at all. Don't worry, I'll be done shortly. I just want you to see one thing... "

He took her by the nape of her neck and forced her away from the wall. A raspy growl came from behind her as her head was forcefully aimed at Cheshire.

" Do you see that? DO YOU?! "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

All that she could see was the living room and a small empty ring of black that was moving strangely on the floor.

"No..." she managed to reply.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

" How about NOW? "

Malemi shoved her forward, letting her fall onto Cheshire. A sly smile slide across his features. He let out harsh, mocking laughter as he looked down at the two fools on the ground. GOD, If only he could see Cheshire's face! Just imagining it almost made him forget what he was doing.

Shaking his head, he grew silent as he let go of the man, his binds sliding off and returning to darkness. Malemi slide up to their side, looking down at them with vicious joy.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Anna felt a warm yet unseen mass on the floor; smooth as skin, in fact it was skin. She moved her hand further down to her left, until she reached a slightly raised section. It was Cheshire's face, and though she hadn't seen her husband in nearly six months, she could recognise his facial features by touch.

"J- J- Jonathan?" Anna let out, shocked by this revelation and begging that it wasn't true. "Is that..."

"Yes, it's me." Cheshire responded, raising himself up by his knees. He took her hands and grasped them. So she was being controlled by him. Of course. "I'm here. I'm home."

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" Home you say? Hmph...Cheshire, who said this was still your home? You abandoned them and left them to fend for themselves, remember? And let's not forget you little profession now...

I would HATE for her to know that her former husband is a THIEF and a LOWLIFE! "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Anna looked at where she thought Cheshire's head would be. Cheshire himself tried not to look at her.

"I knew already." Anna told Malemi, looking up at him. "It was obvious not long after the first burglaries took place. Every time Jonathan went out at night, a burglary happened to take place."

Cheshire looked at her, but she simply smiled the smile that he missed.

"But it's alright. I don't care; as long as he's back." Anna replied. She stood up, still holding Cheshire's hands. "Now leave us alone!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

His eyes narrowed, his smile still intact.

" Oh. Forgive me, I simply thought he was a liar as well as a thief. Still, that doesn't change the fact of the matter that he and I had a deal... "

His smile widened as he turned to meet Cheshire's gaze. He flicked an ear to Anna and shrugged.

" But I guess I'd best keep it to myself. "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Anna looked to Cheshire.

"You made a deal with this... this monster?" Anna sternly asked of him. "Was it to make you like this?"

"No... no..." Cheshire replied meekly. "I was like this before I met... that. It was my fault I became like this."

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" No no, Quite the opposite in fact! I was going to make him visible again when he decided to attack me instead. Now I was being generous, HONORABLE even! To help him without even knowing him...you must understand that such a thing is rare for my sort... "

A sour note entered his tone, his smile shifting into a snarl.

" But he just had to UP and RUN!! I took a gunshot to the head and long night as a payment for my good efforts! I told him I am not to be crossed, and cross me he did. "

He stood up, shadows gathering to his hands. A feral look came over him, his claws curling out and his chest quivering with rampant fury. With sudden aim, He swiped at Cheshire's form, yowling as he did.

" WELL CROSS THIS RAT!! TRY AND STOP ME!! "

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire swept back onto the floor, a large cut in his shoulder, now a thin red hovering line. He yelped in agony, clutching it with both hands. Anna leaned in quickly to apply pressure.

"Jonathan!" Anna cried, she looked back at Malemi. "Please, stop this! Whatever reason my husband had to wrong you I'm sure it was with good reason!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

" Like you would know! "

He shoved her away, coming close for another swipe at the man. The stolen kitchen knife skidded past her, having been thrown by Malemi's lashing tail.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire was oblivious to what was happening, more concerned with the deep claw mark in his shoulder.

Anna, though forced to the floor, reached for the knife quickly before it went out of her reach. She braced herself, and then leapt at the monster, thrusting the kitchen knife deep into one of his many eyes.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

He reeled back, black blood spilling down his face and soaking his fur. Malemi stumbled back, hissing furious curses under his breathe. A blind swipe went Anna's way as two of his arms went to work pulling the blade out.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Anna's face wasn't badly hurt, partly due to the blindness of the attacker, but the three cuts still hurt. She collapsed next to Cheshire, who had managed to get an inkling on what was going on. He grabbed her roughly, looked back to the injured and hissing Malemi, stood up, and began limping with his wife to the door.

"Come on, Anna. I know somewhere we can go." Cheshire reassured her as they got through the living room door.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

" GODDAMNIT, NO! NOT AGAIN!! YOU AREN'T GETTING THE BEST OF ME AGAIN!! "

A spray of blood wet the floor, the knife loosening from his wound with an ugly pop. Malemi looked at them with fire in his eyes, his fur on end and his tail whipping around wildly.

He dropped the knife to the floor and wiped his eyes with a grimace. Lunging forward, he went to gut the two of them with partial sight.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire with a lucky bout of strength, kicked the door to living room firmly shut, and placed a chair against it. Anna was already halfway down the stairs when he finished.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

The doors shuddered with the weight of the beast crashing against its surface. A furious yowl followed with the distinct sound of fists pounded against the door, rapidly morphing into the ragged, curling sound of claws digging into wood.

All the while muffled screams of rage rang out in tandem.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Cheshire ran to the flat door, slammed it shut and pelted down the stairs. Anna was waiting down at the bottom, before she realised something. "Matthew! He's still-"

"He's outside, Anna." Cheshire interjected. "I sent him out there in the park. He'll be fine, now come on!"

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Malemi kept at the door, clawing and rammed, until finally throwing off one of the doors off the frame. He didn't waste any time. He raced out, flinging open the flat door in search for the fleeing couple.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

Taking Anna by the hand, they ran across the street and into the park opposite, hoping to find Matthew safe and sound.

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

Malemi paused as he stood in the doorway. He watched the two of them ran across the street, abandoning the house and entering the safety of the world of man.

He stayed there staring, his body unwilling to go an further.

Taking a breathe, he reoriented himself, slowly closing the door and locking it shut. The house was quiet as he went up into Cheshire's bedroom and curled up on his bed. He closed his eyes and steadied himself, working up another plan should they come back.

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

It didn't take too long to find Matthew, he was never a good hider. Cheshire hailed for a cab, and the three made their way to the only safe place Cheshire knew: the Society.

And there was only one person that Cheshire knew could help him.

(( Jekyll1886 ))

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

( At this point, Malemi just kinda falls asleep, so I guess end? Unless someone else chips in? )

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

((Yeah, I was thinking of either Mz. Hyde or Weir to meet the Cheshires.))

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

( Should we tag them then? )

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Dr. H. Griffin  The Fox • 2 years ago

((Yeah, I'll do it.))

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The Fox  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

( Alright then! )

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Just as Cheshire and his family arrived at the Society's door...it opened fully, revealing Weir, who was just on his way out to go home.

"What the--?"

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Weir!" Cheshire exclaimed enthusiastically. "Thank God we got here in time. Look, I hate to be a problem, but my family and I need help."

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Er...come in, then," said Lewis.

When they had, he shut the door behind them.

Looks like it's going to be another long night...

"What seems to be the trouble, Cheshire?" he asked.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Trouble?!" Anna interjected, striding toward Weir. "A monster barging into your home, playing with your child and injuring yourself and your husband?! Trouble!"

"Anna, please." Cheshire replied, taking her by the hand. He stiffened at the pain in his shoulder. "Weir, I told you a few months ago at the party here of a certain... problem that I had after I became like this."

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Ah," said Weir, the memory swimming hazily back to him. "That, you did."

He recalled also that Maijabi had warded the entire Society after the incident involving Malemi and Utterson.

"You're quite safe from monsters here, Mrs. Cheshire, never fear," he reassured.

Well, the ones outside, anyway... his thoughts corrected.

"Come," he said, gesturing for the three to follow him to the kitchen. "Let's get you something for your nerves--and your wound--and we can speak further."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Matthew followed the other three, whilst eagerly and curiously staring at the many wild objects within the hall. Strange glass boxes, skeletons of strange creatures, strange tall pillars with sparks shooting out of them. It was wondrous.

Anna was clinging to her invisible husband. She was starting to question the reality of her night. Being attacked by a monster, her husband being turned invisible, her son dragged around the house by his feet; it would make anyone believe they were in a nightmare.

Cheshire followed Weir intently, where they were all going, he didn't know. Suddenly a thought cropped up. He walked closer to Weir.

"Is Griffin here?"

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

((Is Hawley there? I'm not sure where in the timeline this incident takes place.))

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

((This takes place after the Party, and after Griffin's return. Sorry for not reiterating.))

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

((Ah. Thank you.))

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Which one? thought Lewis, as they arrived at the Society's kitchen.

"Dr. Hawley Griffin?" he asked, putting the kettle on for tea.

"Please do have a seat if you like, by the way," he offered.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Anna found a simple wooden chair, placing Matthew firmly on her lap. She kept her questions for later. Cheshire on the other hand didn't, preferring to stand and to not keep questions.

"Yes." Cheshire quickly replied. "Is he here?"

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Indeed so," replied Lewis, getting the other tea things ready.

"Shall I fetch him?"

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"No, no. God no." Cheshire replied, again quickly. I've had too much sh*t to deal with tonight. "Just wanted to make sure..."

He looked over to his family. They hadn't seen him for six months, and the moment he arrives it was with a monster. They needed to see his face.

"Say, do you have any powders in here? Paints, that sort of thing?"

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Lewis nodded.

"Just a moment."

He went to the pantry and pulled out a fairly new tin of greasepaint.

"It's not the most glamorous substance," he apologized as he handed it to Cheshire, "but it is rather effective for the purpose."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Cheshire took it, undid the lid and started to apply it to his face. From behind it was a remarkable sight, a sort of floating mask that was being formed like a bloom. He turned to face his wife. She gasped.

"I'd nearly forgotten what you looked like." she replied, on the verge of tears.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

Weir saw fit not to interrupt the happy moment.

Before long, the kettle whistled its merry strain, and he took it off the boil.

While they waited for the tea to steep, he rummaged about in one of the cupboards, finally producing a small bottle of whisky and some glasses.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Cheshire eyed the whisky thoughtfully. Now of all times he would prefer some good old aperitifs than plain tea. He nodded to Weir, whilst Anna rolled her eyes.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

He poured Cheshire a glass and handed it to him.

"Just...something to settle the nerves," he explained, hoping that might appease Anna. "It sounds like you've had a terrible go of things," he sympathized.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"You could say that." Cheshire retorted, before downing the glass in one gulp. "That thing... Malemi... threatened my family. He felt that he was insulted that I didn't accept his deal, and that I get what I deserve. Luckily someone was there to save us."

He looked toward Anna, who blushed embarrasedly.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Lewis poured himself a glass

"Ah," he said, understanding. "I've encountered this 'Malemi' before. What a harrowing ordeal that must have been! It would take commendable courage just to survive it."

He sipped his whisky.

"'Tis good you made it here safely," he remarked. "The entire building and its grounds are warded by means of supernatural science."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"I hope so." Anna said. Cheshire nodded in agreement.

"What was your encounter with it like?" Cheshire asked curiously, yet slightly suspicious.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Well, he chased a friend of mine, who ran in here for safety. Threatened to make him suffer if he didn't agree to some deal or other.

"This was before the place was warded, mind you.

"Luckily, Dr. Maijabi, our resident expert in spirits and such, was able to trap him and seal him away. Malemi was released outside the bounds of the city, perhaps with the hope he'd take the hint and stay away.

"Maijabi took it upon himself to ward the place after, just in case."

Weir checked his pocketwatch.

"Tea ought to be ready," he observed, and went over to the teapot.

"I'll be mother," he offered, and prepared them each a cup.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Matthew giggled at the idiom, taking it the wrong way. Anna smiled at Matthew's reaction. Cheshire was busy in thought. Maijabi... Where have I heard that name before?

Anna and Matthew took their cups, with Matthew naively trying to take a gulp and spluttering at his hot tongue.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Oh, careful now," he said to Matthew. "'Tis hot.

"Here, why don't we put some more milk in it, eh?" he suggested. "Cool it down."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Anna reached for a small white jug of milk, and poured it gently into Matthew's cup.

"Here you go, Matthew." Anna said.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Care for another?" Weir asked, noticing Cheshire's empty glass.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Please." Cheshire replied, outstretching his glass. "I must ask something of you, Weir."

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Lewis refilled the glass.

"Go ahead."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"I need a room for my family and I." Cheshire said. "The monster didn't leave the flat when we left, and since he knows where it is, I can't risk going there again. It'll only be for a few weeks, nothing too substantial. I mean... there's nowhere else for us to go."

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Thought that might be the case," admitted Weir.

"Tell you what. I'll run it by Mz. Hyde, our night manager here. Chances are, she'll be pleased to set you up with a room.

"Even if she says no--which I doubt--you'd be welcome to stay in my office, at the very least."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Thank you." Anna and Cheshire both replied.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"You're most welcome," returned Weir.

"Listen..." he said quietly to Jonathan, "once we get this settled, might I speak with you in private? There's something I think you need to know."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Of course, Weir. I'm indebted to you after all." Cheshire replied. Why in private? Must be something serious. "If you want, I can have Anna take Matthew out for a few moments, he seemed fond of the various... exhibitions here."

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"That sounds good. Once they've finished their tea, naturally. No need to rush."

He took another sip of whisky.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"'Course, course." Cheshire agreed, taking another sip. He wanted to gulp it. Anna didn't touch her tea for the entire time, more concerned with helping Matthew drink it.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Once they--or, rather, Matthew--had finished, Weir suggested they take a walk round the main hall, if they liked, positing it would help them get acquainted with the place.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Anna outstretched a hand to Cheshire, but he shook his head back.

"It's alright, darling; you take Matthew. I've been here a few times before." Cheshire told her. "Go on, now."

Anna smiled and kissed him, before taking Matthew and leaving the kitchen.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Once the two of them were alone, Weir turned to Cheshire.

"You and your family are welcome to stay, just as I've said," Lewis stated. "But I'd be remiss if I didn't let you know the danger, as well.

"When Dr. Hawley Griffin came back after escaping Moriarty, he passed along a bit of frankly alarming information: namely, that Moriarty vowed to destroy the Society if Griffin fled him.

"We've heard not a peep from Moriarty since, but that doesn't mean he isn't planning something. I've a feeling he's the type to follow through with his threats.

"That said, the Society might still be safer than some other places. At the very least, you won't have to deal with Malemi here.

"I just thought you should know, is all."

He finished his whisky.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Cheshire paused for a moment, trying to process this new information. It wouldn't be wise of him to house his family in a place where Moriarty would have his eye on, but better Moriarty than Malemi.

"It's fine." Cheshire eventually said. "Just promise me this one thing, Weir: make sure that Griffin doesn't know I'm here. I have yet to meet him, and it's something that I don't want to happen. I've already got two psychopaths watching me."

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"If he hears of you, it won't be from me," Weir assured him. "Though, fair warning, the rumor mill here tends to run at breakneck speed.

"In the meantime, should you wish treatment for your injury, we've our own infirmary. I should imagine that whisky's had a chance to kick in as a numbing agent by now."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Indeed it has." Cheshire replied. "Thanks again. Lewis."

Cheshire placed his empty glass down, and went to meet his family outside.

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"You're welcome. Jonathan," Lewis returned.

When Cheshire left, Weir set to tidying up the kitchen.

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Dr. H. Griffin  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

((I'll say that's the end! Thanks for entering!))

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Jekyll1886  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

((Indeed so. Thanks; this was fun.))

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MillieGriffin • 2 years ago

(Just wanted to let you know; 10/10, loving this story so far)

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