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Title: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 9th, 2003, 4:51am New thread - and before anyone asks - yes it is the correct title - the first one was incorrect - I never intended to repeat the sentence - think it was very late at night! More story tonight - hopefully! here's the link ~ http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/santajulyrcs.html Vikki :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 5:16am But no new part to go along with the new thread? *sobs at having expectations unfulfilled* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 9th, 2003, 5:25am *Sounds of hysterical laughter emanating from corner of Kent, England at expecting Lesley to produce anything readable at 5 in the morning!!!* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 5:29am Well, it was just a suggestion... |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by LauraT on Dec 9th, 2003, 8:59am What are you doing AWAKE at 5 in the morning?! CBBers have the weirdest sleeping habits! *cough* Vikki! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by xanthe on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:00am Oh, I wondered what that noise was... thought it was just some foxes... |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:35am Also disappointed .... twice! >:( Thought there was more on Santa Mk 1, only to find I had to look over here where the cupboard was equally bare!! *sulks* It's a long time until tonight! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:56am :( i was all excited that more may have been posted and it hasn't |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 11:09am on 12/09/03 at 08:59:36, LauraT wrote:
Laura, she gets up that early to avoid the traffic on the M25 when she goes in to work. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 9th, 2003, 6:45pm Aaah! The M25! Britain's largest car park!! ;D ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 9th, 2003, 8:29pm I heard a traffic report on the radio earlier about horrendous things on the M25 tonight, so I do hope Lesley isn't on that bit. Yes, for her sanity, not for more story. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 8:49pm As far as the traffic goes, maybe we need a few mornings of extreme hold-up-idness so that Lesley can get more writing done. *waits for Lesley to explode at the mere idea* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lisa_T on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:19pm Is Lesley still stuck on the M25? Part of me is glad- lots of story- and part is miffed cos i wanted to read some!!! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:25pm *considers sending a rescue squad to help Lesley!!* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:45pm I can't imagine she would be! She doesn't tend to get onto the CBB until the early British hours... |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by catherine on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:46pm Let's hope she hasn't got herself an unexpected travelling companion!! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:55pm Elinor or Lesley's plot bunny? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by catherine on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:57pm Elinor, of course! If Lesley's plot bunny is with her (Lesley not Elinor), so much the better!! ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 9th, 2003, 9:58pm Well, don't we want the plot bunnyb to be with her? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 10:03pm *hopes the PB is keeping Lesley awake and urging her to write* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 9th, 2003, 11:19pm Come on, Lesley - we can see you're there - get posting! ;D Hope journey home wasn't too awful .... |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 9th, 2003, 11:19pm on 12/09/03 at 11:09:00, KB wrote:
Sound of hollow laughter there! Left home today at 6.30 got to work at 9.30 - as Rachael already knows I've had a bad day - only got in at 10.30 tonight. Still, at least today I did get to work - last Friday - after 6 hours on M25 I turned round and went home. Never mind - next installment. ____________________________________ She was still sat there an hour later when a voice sounded in her ear and she looked around to see Helen, “Sorry, Helen, were you speaking to me?” Miss Wilson smiled, “Yes, Miss Wilson, I asked if you would like to join some of us - we’re going to the skating rink.” The tall girl smiled herself before continuing, “None of us have drunk anything so we should be able to stay upright this time!” Nell grinned, “Yes, I’ll join you, Helen, the doc only said no skiing, he didn’t say anything about skating!” The next hour or so was spent on the skating rink, all around the outside of the rink was advertised an Ice Hockey Tournament that weekend, Nell Wilson joined Alison and Helen when they were reading through the rules and regulations, “Are you thinking of entering, girls?” Alison sighed, “we had thought about it, Miss Wilson,” she replied, “after all we can all skate reasonably well and know the game of hockey,” “The resort provides all the equipment needed,” continued Helen, “and even throws in a couple of coaching sessions,” “So what’s the problem?” “We don’t have the numbers,” Alison pointed to the rules, “the minimum number is 16.” The girls both stopped and waited expectantly. Miss Wilson grinned, “Oh alright, put my name down then!” Both girls smiled, “thanks Miss Wilson,” this from Helen, “do you think Miss Annersley would like to be included as well? After all the more people the more chances we’ve got of substitutes!” “Knowing how she felt about the one and only hockey game she has ever played, Helen, I should think the mere idea would give her heart failure!” Miss Wilson suddenly stopped and thought furiously, “Actually, ignore what I’ve just said, Helen, put her name down as well.” “But when we had that hockey tournament she said she’d never played hockey.” this from Louise who had skated up to join them. “Yes I know,” Miss Wilson said softly, “But that was before that book was published.” She looked around at the girls and elaborated, “The book that Lesley, that’s Miss Green your Earth Sciences mistress, had published, in it Miss Annersley plays hockey, so I think now that she can!” “I think my head hurts even trying to work that out, Miss Wilson!” this from Alison, “but if you’re sure we’ll enter all our names,” Later, when back at the chalet, Miss Wilson told her friend about her discovery, Miss Annersley was unsurprised, “Yes Nell, I know how to play hockey now, the tournament sounds fun! Before that how do you fancy a bowling competition? I’ve already spoken to the girls and they are willing to take part - groups of three. I thought Tom could make up our group to three?” Miss Wilson nodded absently, her mind suddenly returning to the subjects she had been thinking of earlier in the day, she looked across at her friend, “Hilda, may I ask you something?” she sounded very serious and Miss Annersley looked around in astonishment, “Of course, Nell, anything,” she said gently. “Have you considered, since entering the real world, about settling down, having a family? I mean, there’s nothing to stop you now, no Elinor, and you are not restrained by any story.” Miss Annersley walked across to kneel beside her friend, “Nell, I have a family, it’s you and the girls. I cannot think of anything I’d rather be doing than be Head of the Real Chalet School with you as my Deputy. I’m sorry if that’s boring, and following a programme but I feel privileged to know exactly what I want from life.” The Head looked into her friend’s eyes with some concern, “I thought it was what you wanted too, Nell, am I wrong?” Nell Wilson smiled, “No Hilda, it is exactly what I want from life. I only thought, with you spending time with Tom, and then me seeing the Masons earlier,” Hilda Annersley shook her head, amused, “Tom was teaching me how to bowl, and in any case, he’s gay!” She looked over at her partner with smiling eyes, “you do know what that means?” “After almost a year in the real world? Of course I do!” “Yes, his partner is a policeman, they’ve been together for nearly ten years.” Miss Annersley prepared to go along to the shower, “Oh, and he thinks we are too!” Miss Wilson looked up, surprised, “What did you say to that?” |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Angel of the North on Dec 9th, 2003, 11:26pm thank you. I loved that. Not going to ask for more, but rest assured I'll devour it if it is offered. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 9th, 2003, 11:27pm Oh! Brilliant and quite unexpected!! 8oo What did she say? What did she say? What did she say? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 9th, 2003, 11:54pm Somehow, I think Hilda will have told him that they were, with a meaningful wink, of course! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 9th, 2003, 11:59pm Thank you Lesley! That was great!! And I'm sorry you've had such a crappy day!! Have a big hug!! :-* :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lisa_T on Dec 10th, 2003, 1:36am *giggles* Aw, I'm rather sorry Hilda wasn't bothered at the prospect of more hockey. I was hoping for indignant spluttering from her and devious plotting by Nell! More please- I want to know about the response ot the gay question too... ;) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Esmeralda on Dec 10th, 2003, 2:20am Looking forward to more Lesley, as soon as possible please. Commiserations fpr having a crappy day, and for last Friday's non-journey, round her a traffic jam usually means you get nto work a maximum of 15 minutes late, although it did once take me 90 minutes to drive 8 miles, but that was because of an accident on the main road causing the tradffic to be diverted onto the road I use, which had roadworks and temporary traffic lights, and another accident on the alternative route, (narrow country lanes) and about six inches of snow. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:05am OK, have had time to think and wonder whether Hilda is going to have some fun at Nell's expense by winding her up? "Well, I told him we loved each other, what else did you expect?" That kind of thing, followed swiftly by stunned/awkward silence from Nell? Then: "As sisters of course! You're the only family I need .." But then Lesley is as bad as Rachel for twists and turns so who knows ... just hope she posts again soon! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by xanthe on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:40am *finds herself holding her breath* *realises this is not a vg idea* *slowly exhales and rapidly draws in more breath to chant with* *asbeils down the drabble-cliff to play on the trampoline* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 10th, 2003, 5:39pm on 12/10/03 at 09:05:58, Rachael P wrote:
I take it from this then, Rachael, that you don't think they are then? ;) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 5:52pm Well, if Hilda has to ask Nell whether she knows what 'gay' means, it doesn't seem very likely to me that they are!! *totally unable to imagine the Abbess up close & personal with anyone* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 10th, 2003, 6:35pm *OK - little baby post just to answer the question! More later if I manage to get these reports done!* Miss Annersley, already halfway out of the door, came back in and sat next to her friend, “I told him that, as far as I was concerned neither of us had ever considered that type of relationship, Nell. I also said that it was not something that, in any way appealed to me personally, but that if you were ever to suggest it, I would do my utmost to make you believe it was what I’d been waiting for all my life.” The Head smiled at her friend who grinned back. On her way back out to the shower again, Miss Annersley stopped, “you weren’t planning on suggesting it, were you Nell?” Miss Wilson laughed, “No I wasn’t, idiot!” |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lisa_T on Dec 10th, 2003, 6:46pm *giggling and sniggering* Thanks, Lesley. What about that hockey match? I'm really very curious to see if Hilda really can handle more than -what was it- 'ten minutes of a very mild game of hockey' now. Apologies for the inaccuracies in the quote! ;) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 10th, 2003, 8:52pm Lovely little excerpt, Lesley! I love the way Hilda and Nell tease each other! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 10th, 2003, 8:57pm *giggles* Hilda got called idiot! More soon i hope! :) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:56pm LOL, Lesley - I would have been surprised, yes, because their relationship is more than close enough for that to have already happened if it was going to ... Weird - on the one hand I'd love them to each fall in love with whoever and experience that kind of relationship but on the other I don't want anyone to mess with what they've got - a deep friendship and everything that the school is to them .... very tricky! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:00pm Hilda must have been pretty confident about Nell's answer to that one, mustn't she? Otherwise there could have been some very awkward scenes as she "did her utmost to make Nell believe it was what she'd been waiting for all her life"! :o |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:31pm (I personally feel it is possible for two people to be so close that it is love - without there being any sexual attraction between them.) *Next - now - YAWN! - I'm going to bed!* The next day saw the two friends, accompanied by the girls, return to the ski slopes. After spending a number of winters themselves in the Swiss Alps, none of the girls were novices and the party all headed directly for the black slopes. After a morning spent on the slopes they all returned to the resort as the Instructors had laid on a surprise for them. After driving in a coach for an hour, they were brought to the top of a large bobsleigh run. Tom turned to the party, “This is used to train the Olympic teams,” he smiled, “the first time anyone rides one of these is said to be amongst the scariest events of their lives! We can take you in groups of three!” The entire party thoroughly enjoyed riding the bobsleighs and spent the entire afternoon there. They finally returned to their chalet with just enough time to change ready for the bowling competition that evening. As there were six teams, the group took over most of the bowling alley. It was fairly evident, early on, that the Heads’ team was totally outmatched, even with Tom helping as much as possible, they were soon trailing far behind and eventually decided to sit out the rest of the competition and just watch. The competition attracted others who were watching, including a number of young men who seemed very interested in the girls. Both Hilda and Nell watched these developments with interest, but were not very concerned; as well as the initial orientation tours by Jennie, and subsequent lectures on the opposite sex, the Prefects were a very close bunch and had taken Miss Annersley’s instruction on the first day to heart. There was never a time when the girls were on their own. By the end of the evening the winners were Helen and Claire, Claire was the Staff Prefect and the only girl taller than Helen herself. The others promptly said they had used the advantage of superior height unfairly! Their prize for winning the competition was to buy the rest of the party drinks. The only good thing, as far as they were concerned was that some had already left! Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson decided to return to the chalet not long after that, and strolled along the main street, taking in the sights. As they reached the chalet and entered, the lights were on inside revealing a troubling sight, Lyn White was stretched out on the floor, unconscious, while there were signs of a struggle. The Heads immediately rushed to Lyn, who awoke as they lifted her, “Lyn, what happened?” Miss Annersley’s voice betrayed none of her mounting concern, Lyn swallowed before replying, “Three men were waiting, Miss Annersley, they asked to speak to Louise, when she answered they grabbed her. They said they’d left you a message,” she indicated the computer in the corner. While her partner looked after Lyn, Miss Annersley walked over to the computer and switched it on, Miss Wilson looked across, “What is it, Hilda?” Miss Annersley turned, “It’s a ransom demand,” she said softly. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:38pm :o :o :o Lesley you're not goiig to leave it there for too long i hope! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Esmeralda on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:46pm *Drags trampoline into position. Sleep well Lesley, and wake up rested and refreshed and ready to post lots more, pleeeeeease. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:16pm *joins Esmeralda on the trampoline!* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:22pm *resigns self to emotional treadmill yet again* I'm convinced this has something to do with those crims in the newspaper report .... Agree that people can love each other without the sex thing ... |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 12:11am Lesley, must you always ruin a story that seems like it has a perfectly good ending coming at railroad speed?! Okay, so it's not ruined, but I'd just begun to believe you were drawing this to a close. *sighs and joins the others on the edge of the cliff* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 11th, 2003, 4:22am KB, I can stop now if that's what you want? After all I know the ending! ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Kathy_S on Dec 11th, 2003, 4:40am No, no, no stopping in the middle! *Requires happy ending before leaving town Christmas Eve* (You did say this was a Christmas drabble, didn't you?) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 5:28am on 12/11/03 at 04:22:04, Lesley wrote:
As long as you tell me the ending, too, I won't mind a jot! ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:38am on 12/10/03 at 23:16:56, Vikki wrote:
Space for a little one on the trampoline ??? or do i need to "borrow" one from school ;) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:57am *helps Chloe up onto the trampoline* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:07pm *looks longingly at trampoline, and would like to join in, but can't, due to sore arm!!!* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:11pm Why - do you bounce on your arm, Vikki? ::) *jumps up and down excitedly in anticipation of Lesley's next posting which is sure to be quite, quite marvellous* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:50pm LESLEY! WHERE ARE YOU? *plaintive wail* It's been hours and hours .......... *pouts in unbecoming fashion* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:50pm No Catherine, but having a very painful scald, I'd be afraid of hurting it! :'( |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:52pm Poor Vikki! :'( Can't you sue your work for negligence or something, then you could retire and spend even more time on the CBB than you do now? ;) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:07pm *giggle* Somehow I don't think I'd get enough to retire on!! ;) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:37pm *agrees not safe on the big trampoline if injured but offers Vikki a small single persons trapoline to bouce safely up and down on* More story please Lesley! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:41pm on 12/11/03 at 21:37:45, Chloe wrote:
*huggles Chloe for being so thoughtful, and an absolute sweetie!* :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Angel of the North on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:47pm *Angel brings in her really big trampoline, covered in safe squashy mats, and asks if Vikki wants to play* And anyone else |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:53pm *Next!* “A ransom demand? What on Earth for?” The query came from Carol as she and several of the others appeared at the door. Miss Annersley turned to view all of them, “Girls, we have an emergency,” she said her soft tones still managing to convey urgency, “Carol, all of you, find the rest of the Prefects and bring them back here straight away, Louise has been kidnapped!” Carol’s eyes widened in shock but she and the others turned to leave, Miss Wilson stopped them, “One moment, girls,” she said quickly, “make sure you tell no one else about this, if the others ask and you are not alone, just say it’s a family emergency, nothing more.” The girls nodded and left. While waiting for them the Heads helped Lyn to a nearby sofa and got her a drink, she did not appear too badly hurt and had only a slight bump on her head. When the rest of the Prefects arrived both Hilda and Nell were standing next to the computer re-reading the note. Miss Annersley waited until everyone had taken a seat and ensured that the front door was secure, she then told everyone what had happened earlier that evening. There was uproar with half the girls trying to talk at the same time, finally though they quieted as Helen voiced the question that many of them were thinking, “But Miss Annersley, why Louise? If it’s as Lyn says they were waiting for her, asked for her by name, so why was she singled out?” “It’s almost as though they chose her because they knew she had money,” the quiet voice of Jane Carmichael, The Heads looked at one and other and Miss Annersley nodded slightly, “She does have money,” Miss Wilson spoke softly, “a great deal. You know that when we transferred over to the Real World our wealth transferred too?” The girls nodded, it was one of the reasons why the Real Chalet School was so successful, there was plenty of money. “Well, for everyone that meant all money in their supposed families, and some of you girls were from exceptionally wealthy families.” “Including Louise?” This from Alison. “Louise and her sister Rose have the largest fortunes of all girls at the Real Chalet School,” Miss Annersley continued, “the money was divided in two when the sisters decided not to ask for the same family. Louise’s half, along with all the rest of your money, is held in trust, jointly, by Miss Wilson and myself. You may only access it with our permission.” “We had thought that all details of this type were secure on computer,” Miss Wilson paced the floor, “But someone has obviously hacked their way past the security, not only did they know which girl had the largest fortune, but they knew that either the Head or I must approve any transfer of money. This note gives specific instructions for one of us to join Louise, after which I should imagine the intention is to empty her bank account!” “And I wouldn’t have thought either Louise or anyone with her is likely to be safe once they’ve done that,” Miss Annersley’s quiet voice spoke the thoughts of everyone present. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:57pm on 12/11/03 at 21:41:41, Vikki wrote:
You're welcome Vikki! :-* Thanks Lesley such a cool posting! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by catherine on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:58pm Don't leave it there, Lesley, please!!! Where's the 'pleading for more' smiley when you want it? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:00pm I'm in awe all over again at your versatility, Lesley! Not only can you write CS daily life to perfection and fantastical EBD horror stories, but now gripping crime fiction as well?! *takes off hat and bows low in the face of this sheer genius!* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:01pm BLIMEY! I was just about to log off .... *spluttering* But who .... how .... why?? It can't be EBD or Matey so ... who .... ??? *still very suspicious about the newspaper crims ....* *places substantial bets on Hilda and Nell sorting everything out satisfactorily ......* (Hey, I've been Xmas shopping today - I need to recoup my losses ;)) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:08pm Thank you Lesley!!! Poor Louise!! Hope they can save her! :o |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:09pm Lesley :o please don't leave it there for too long! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:19pm on 12/11/03 at 22:00:36, Catherine_B wrote:
Many thanks for the praise Catherine. :-[ But should just point out the horror story was Rachael's! The only bit of that I wrote was the very last post telling everyone whodunnit! ;D More tomorrow! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:26pm Er, Lesley ... let me get this straight ... you write the Real CS of which the basic premise is the whole school endeavouring to escape the clutches of evil EBD/Elinor? Moreover, EBD subjects Hilda to a never-ending purgatory before she is miraculously rescued? Need I go into the details? Don't try and wriggle out of responsibility for the horror that is EBD! I would have had no story without Real CS - my Elinor is no worse than yours (even if she does have a bit more fun with CBBers ;)) and I bow down with Catherine_B before your collective genius! ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:30pm I'm perfectly prepared to acknowledge Rachael P's brilliant EBD (and her own extreme deviousness & sneakiness!) but she's also right - there's no way we'll let you disclaim responsibility for the horror that was the original Evil EBD! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:30pm OK now :-[x 1 billion!!! You know all this praise won't get more story posted - I've not written it and am having trouble keeping eyes open! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:36pm on 12/11/03 at 22:01:14, Rachael P wrote:
Personally, I don't know why it couldn't be either of them! And Lesley, go to bed! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:38pm Yes, b*gger off to bed and dream some more inspiration then! *selfishly hoping this prompts more posts tomorrow!* 'Night 'night! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:42pm *lol* Look how nice we've been to her! We deserve more for all that, at the very least! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:53pm 8oo8oo8oo Night all!! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:55pm Sweet dreams Lesley! Will look forward to more tomorrow!! :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:01pm Good night, Lesley! :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Esmeralda on Dec 12th, 2003, 1:58am Great stuff Lesley, I love detective stories, sleep well, and please be ready to post more tomorrow. What have you done to your arm Vikki? Does this mean you won't have to go to work? If so, I should try to make it last until after Christmas, although I don't want you to be in pain of course. Lots of hugs. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 6:37am Lesley, I know you're on. Should I start begging, or just call for more? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 12th, 2003, 6:46am Sorry KB - love to oblige but I've got to leave soon - driving to Nottingham and back today! More tonight! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 7:11am *sigh* Oh, all right then. I'll wait for your night... |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Jennie on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:48am Superb, Lesley, I can't wait for more. (But I won't yell for it as you're so tired.) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Abi on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:55am Oh I love this it is soooooooooooooooooooooo good! *prepared to wait patiently for more* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 12th, 2003, 12:31pm Waiting semi patiently for tonight. Have a sucessful day Lesley in whatever it is you do, and then come and thrill us all tonight. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 12th, 2003, 7:16pm *shouts reaching all over the board* Lesley where are you! This is a request for some more story please! :) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:00pm Hey, Lesley, surely it's night by now!!! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:53pm *thinking that if Lesley was in Nottingham today then she probably had a relatively clear run going south on the M1 but then got stuck again on the M25 ......* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:54pm Hope the drive went OK today, Lesley! ... and now that you're online again, how about another post? ;) |
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Title: “Should we contaRe: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:27pm Actually the M25 wasn't too bad today, unfortunately the same cannot be said of both the M1 and the A2! Took me more than 5 hours to drive home - took 3 and a half to get there! GRRRR!! *next bit - you may get more tonight!* “Should we contact the police?” This from Helen. “No,” Miss Annersley’s reply was firm, “we do not want any authorities involved if at all possible. The one thing we have all got to safeguard is our,” she paused , obviously searching for the correct word, “our unusual method of entry into this world.” “But if we can’t speak to anyone, how are we going to find Louise?” The question was on all the Prefects’ lips, Alison was the one to voice it. Miss Wilson smiled, it was not a smile that boded well for the kidnappers, “Girls, we fought and beat Elinor, these vermin will be easy,” “And we have a number of resources of which they will be unaware,” The Head continued, “now this note instructs that Miss Wilson and I remain here with the computer on but not used, however I know a number of you brought your laptops?” Four of the girls acknowledged this, “Excellent, and as they have satellite linkage we have our connection to the Net, now the first thing is to establish how these people managed to access our records. There are two things we need to do, firstly get in touch with Madge Russell, it’s likely that all files have been compromised, and secondly speak to an expert.” “What about us?” Lyn asked, “should we go out and try to find Louise?” Miss Wilson shook her head, “No, girls, I know you want to find her but searching isn’t going to help until we have more information.” She looked around sympathetically, “they’ll not hurt her, they need her alive and well to retrieve and transfer her funds. The best thing you can do for now is get on the Net and start searching for any unusual stories recently. This place is a quiet holiday resort, why should it suddenly have three kidnappers visit?” The girls started accessing the Net and Nell walked over to Hilda, “I’ll speak to Madge then?” she asked, “You’re going to be busy calling our ‘expert’!” Hilda Annersley nodded, “Yes,” she paused, “I wonder what time it is in America?” |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:28pm BILL GATES!? .. It must be ........ 8oo 8oo 8oo Absolutely inspired !! More, please Lesley!! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:30pm Thank you Lesley!! *sends a sympathetic hug for the awfulness of the M1 & A2* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:37pm *giggles* Great idea, Lesley! I wonder how Bill will react - or is he the one who took her to get back the money he gave to the school in the first place? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by catherine on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:37pm Wondeful, Lesley! Looking forward to more when you get a chance. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:45pm That would be a twist, KB! Cone on Lesley ... what happens next? ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by PatW on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:49pm on 12/12/03 at 21:37:23, KB wrote:
He wouldn't need to, unless he's gone bust! I don't *think* that's very likely, though! ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:53pm But all that would matter to a true miser (and I'm not saying he is one, just that he might be, and that he was when he was younger) would be that the money had gone to 'waste'. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:54pm Yay! Thank you Lesley! *sorry the roads were so bad, happy there's hope of more tonight possibly* |
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Title: A short time latRe: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:15pm *Next bit!* A short time later Miss Annersley was dialling the personal telephone number for the head of the Microsoft Corporation; there was a short pause then a sleepy voice answered, “Bill Gates here, it’ud better be important!” “My apologises for waking you Mr Gates, but you did say I could call you in the event of a problem,” Miss Annersley’s voice was soft and she could almost hear the mental change in attitude from the person on the other end other line. “Miss Annersley? Is something wrong?” “Yes Mr Gates, it appears that the security programmes your company devised for my School have been breached!” “Impossible!” the word sprang from the man’s lips before he had consciously considered what he was saying,” “Nevertheless, it has occurred.” Miss Annersley’s voice held the merest hint of ice and Bill Gates grimaced at the receiver, “information has been accessed that has placed one of my pupils in extreme danger!” Bill Gates paused a moment to fully awaken, “Sorry Miss Annersley, I didn’t mean to doubt you, by extreme danger you mean…?” “I mean she has been kidnapped!” “Sh*t! The expletive was out before Bill Gates realised, “sorry ma’am,” he said hastily, “That is quite alright Mr Gates, the news warranted such an outburst.” Miss Annersley smiled to herself. “There are very few ‘hackers’ that we know of at Microsoft, who could break those protocols, Miss Annersley,” it was obvious that the head of Microsoft was shaking off his broken night’s sleep, “Bear with me a moment I’ve got to access the info on my PC.” There was a short pause then, “Right at the moment there are only 5 that we know of and have yet to track down.” “You keep a track of this type of criminal?” Miss Annersley sounded surprised, “Oh yes, we’ll normally offer them a job!” Bill Gates’ voice held some amusement, “Of those 5, two are within mainland USA, one is in London, one in Delhi and one in…” he paused for a moment, “Interesting, one has been traced as far as the Eastern side of Australia, looks like we may have him,” “Are you able to perform a more detailed trace?” “Not exactly, these hackers are clever, they never leave easy trails to follow.” There was a further pause, then, “Look, Miss Annersley I’ll get in touch with some of my people and get back to you, once I’ve got more info. What about the girl, do you need money?” “My thanks for the offer, Mr Gates, but that is not a problem, I would appreciate the help however,” “Well I think you’re the only person that’s ever refused the offer of money from Bill Gates!“ The man’s voice was amused, his tone deepened however as he continued, “And you’re more than welcome to any help I can give - a sickening crime, kidnapping, as I’m sure you can imagine I’ve had to watch over my kids because of the risk. I’ll be in touch soon.” He rang off. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:42pm Super, Lesley! I love the thought of Hilda having immediate personal access to Bill Gates! :) *wondering whether the East Australian hacker will turn out to be connected to the original CS characters in any way* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 13th, 2003, 4:33am *suddenly liking Bill Gates an awful lot more!* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 13th, 2003, 7:11am Just to give advance warning - I'm going out soon and will not be back until tomorrow night so no more posts until then - one good thing is I am taking my laptop so may have chance to write more! ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:56am We shall possess our souls with patience until then Lesley! ::) Glad you've taken your laptop though! Great post - love the hold Hilda has over Billie G! *wondering about the identity of the mysterious hacker ...* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 13th, 2003, 11:00am *appluades* Yay thank you Lesley! :) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Jennie on Dec 13th, 2003, 12:15pm Thank you Lesley, this is marvellous. Some more please, when you're ready. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:19pm *hopes Lesley won't be long* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Abi on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:24pm Yay! Another couple of great installments, Lesley. *waiting on tenterhooks* *Gets off tenterhooks - they're not very comfortable* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:31pm What are tenterhooks, anyway? *suddenly curious* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by xanthe on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:32pm *too tired to play on the trampoline* *decides to get her sleeping bag and curl up somewhere warm to wait for some more drabble* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:33pm We did define this at some other time, I believe before the big delete. This is a lot of information, but it's very interesting! It’s been so long since anyone has seen either a tenter, or the hooks on one, that the word and the idea behind it are now quite mysterious, so much so that it sometimes appears as on tenderhooks, which sounds as though it ought to make more sense. But at one time, the phrase on tenterhooks would have evoked an image that was immediately understandable. It comes from one of the processes of making woollen cloth. After it had been woven, the cloth still contained oil from the fleece, mixed with dirt. It was cleaned in a fulling mill, but then it had to be dried carefully or it would shrink and crease. So the lengths of wet cloth were stretched on wooden frames, and left out in the open for some time. This allowed them to dry and straightened their weave. These frames were the tenters, and the tenter hooks were the metal hooks used to fix the cloth to the frame. At one time, it would have been common in manufacturing areas to see fields full of these frames (older English maps sometimes marked an area as a tenter-field). So it was not a huge leap of the imagination to think of somebody on tenterhooks as being in an state of anxious suspense, stretched like the cloth on the tenter. The tenters have gone, but the meaning has survived. Tenter comes from the Latin tendere, to stretch, via a French intermediate. The word has been in the language since the fourteenth century, and on tenters soon after became a phrase meaning painful anxiety. The exact phrase on tenterhooks seems first to have been used by Tobias Smollett in Roderick Random in 1748. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:36pm Thank-you for enlightening us KB. A head girl can always be relied on the know! :D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:39pm Wow! Thank you KB, that was indeed fascinating. I love knowing where words come from. :) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 13th, 2003, 10:50pm This is an excellent site for that sort of thing: http://www.quinion.com/words/index.htm |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by PatW on Dec 13th, 2003, 11:11pm My husband has stretched cloth on them!! He did research on the reasons dye didn't take properly on cloth. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Esmeralda on Dec 14th, 2003, 12:49am Not a place where I would like to be literally, let's just say I'm waiting for more in a state of tense anxiety. |
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Title: The Head looked Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 14th, 2003, 5:49pm *Hello again! Next bit!* The Head looked up as Miss Wilson joined her, “what did Madge say?” “She knew nothing of any breach but will contact Ray to get her to check. She’s also going to place a seal on all files - both the School and the hospital - so no one can access them. What about Bill?” “Extremely helpful,” Miss Annersley relayed her conversation with Bill Gates before both of them rejoined the Prefects back in the lounge. They sat next to Lyn, who, though rather pale, did not otherwise appear to be suffering any ill effects, “Lyn, did you actually see these men?” Miss Annersley began, “Could you identify them?” The girl thought for a moment, “They were all wearing ordinary ski suits, normal bright colours but nothing unusual. They were all wearing balaclavas to cover their faces,” she began, “The one who was giving the orders was a big man, very tall, the other two were smaller, and seemed younger. One of them was also very muscular while the other was far thinner,” “You didn’t see their faces, or recognise their voices?” This from Miss Wilson, The girl shook her head, “No, they had Australian accents but I didn’t know the voices. Their faces were covered, although I think the leader was quite old, some of his hair or beard was poking out of the mask and it was pure white.” she looked across at Miss Wilson, “Like your hair used to be, Miss Wilson!” The Deputy Head smiled, “In my case it was prematurely white - stupid idea anyway, it never really happens with shock!” “Is there anything else you can remember?” Miss Annersley sounded a little disappointed, Lyn shook her head, “Not really, Miss Annersley, although I did get the impression that the muscular one was really evil.” She grimaced slightly then continued, “he’s the one who hit me!” Some of the other Prefects had also been listening to the conversation and addressed the Heads, “There doesn’t appear to be anything unusual in the news recently, Miss Annersley,” this from Helen, “The local news is no different to that found any day in any local paper.” “Did you expect anything different, Miss Wilson?” Carol asked, “Only that we have been here six days now, why choose tonight to do something unless the kidnappers have only recently made their plans?” Miss Wilson replied absently. The next few hours were spent awaiting developments, the Heads’ instructions were that they not leave the chalet but wait for another message. Although getting late, none of the girls wanted to sleep, instead all were prepared to wait for the next message. Large quantities of coffee were drunk and discussions were in subdued tones. At a little after one am, more than four hours after the abduction had taken place, an email was received on the computer. Miss Annersley quickly read it out, “Prepare to communicate via web cam in thirty minutes!” The next few minutes were spent frantically searching for the web cam and setting it up correctly, exactly 30 minutes later the screen flickered into life and Miss Annersley found herself staring at the white features of Louise Chad. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by xanthe on Dec 14th, 2003, 5:55pm *slips, misses her footing, and falls a little way down the drabble cliff* ouch! *frowns* *wants to know what happens next* *looks hopefully at Lesley* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Rachael P on Dec 14th, 2003, 6:24pm Quite! What happens next? *agog* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 14th, 2003, 6:33pm *climbs down to check Xan's not too badly hurt* Yay thanks Lesley, more soon i hope! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 14th, 2003, 7:20pm *And next - may be more tonight but I've got to write it first!* “Louise!” The exclamation burst from the Head’s lips without her even realising it, the girl on the screen gave a very slight half-smile and began to speak, “Miss Annersley, I-I-I have a list of instructions here, that I’m supposed to read to you. Before that though, they’ve told me that you should ask me a question - so I can prove I’m really me and not a recording.” Miss Annersley nodded, “very well Louise,” she paused slightly, thinking, “Who made me the Staff Baby?” The girl’s face relaxed very slightly, “EBD made you Staff Baby, Miss Annersley,” she said quietly, “Correct Louise,” Miss Annersley’s face was very intent, “now remember what happened to her!” She watched as the girl took a small amount of comfort from the reminder of a previous enemy’s fate. Louise suddenly had a sheet of paper shoved in front of her, she took the paper and began to read from it, “At midday either you or Miss Wilson are to take the cable car up to the top of the mountain. At the safety hut ask for the package that will be waiting there for you and follow the instructions. Do not carry any form of mobile phone, computer equipment or tracking device. You will be met. Who ever does not make the trip should remain in the chalet and report, via the web cam, every 10 minutes to prove their location.” The girl swallowed before continuing faintly, “You are not to contact the Police, you are to follow instructions exactly. If you deviate from these instructions I will be killed.” On her last word the link was broken and Miss Annersley found herself staring at a blank screen. She stared for a few seconds before reaching across to switch off the web cam. She turned to the others, “Did you all see and hear everything?” She asked softly of the others - Miss Wilson and the Prefects were all gathered on the sides, out of the web cam’s viewpoint, but close enough to see the screen. The others all nodded, “They must be fairly confident that we’re not going to attempt any sort of rescue if they give out information on computer as to the meeting point,” Mary voiced what a number of the Prefects felt. “Not really, Mary,” Miss Wilson disagreed, “After all, they only have to watch the cable cars, at this time of year there is no other way up the mountain,” “I wonder why they want you to go there?” This from Alison, “Could they be holding Louise up there?” “I don’t see how,” Miss Annersley replied, “they would have to be in some form of shelter and all the safety huts would be visited by the resort employees at regular intervals. Perhaps it’s just a way to ensure that whoever goes up there is alone.” “Could any of the resort employees be a part of this?” Helen asked, “Doubtful,” Miss Wilson said, “the risks attached would be too great, kidnapping is a serious crime,” The sound of a mobile phone ringing pierced the discussion, Miss Annersley answered her phone, recognising the caller as Bill Gates, she placed the call on speaker so the rest of the group could hear the conversation, “Good morning, Mr Gates,” “Miss Annersley, I have some news for you,” the American’s voice held some satisfaction, “Microsoft already had a team in Melbourne investigating an earlier security breach to one of our systems. This seems to share certain characteristics to the breach at your School. I’ve been in touch with them, one of them is currently flying to your location in a light aircraft, he’ll be there in a few hours. The other is travelling to Point Nepean - he’ll go through your files with your computer experts, try to find out exactly when the breach occurred.” “Excellent, thank you Mr Gates, your help is much appreciated.” Miss Annersley stopped as her partner suddenly waved for attention, “Mr Gates? Nell Wilson here, exactly what security breach was your team already investigating?” “One moment,” there was a short pause, “Miss Wilson, they were looking into how a group of armed robbers had bypassed a time-release door. Somehow they managed to break the programme that should have kept the door locked until security guards were on the premises.” |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Dec 14th, 2003, 7:36pm :o I hope do get to write more this evening Lesley it's so gripping! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 14th, 2003, 8:40pm So there is a connection with the robbers. Is there also a Chalet connection?? Soon please Lesley, D is watching the Two Towers, his birthday present, so I'm here for the next few hours, probably!! |
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Title: As the Head of MRe: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Dec 14th, 2003, 9:49pm *Next bit - more tomorrow!* As the Head of Microsoft rang off Miss Wilson looked toward Miss Annersley, “There’s something I’m missing, Hilda, something important,” “Something Mr Gates said?” Miss Annersley asked quietly, “Perhaps,” the Deputy Head frowned, thinking, “One of the papers we had on the journey here mentioned the bank robbery,” Helen remembered, “Perhaps that will help,” She retrieved the key to the minibus and headed to the garage, on her return she had a number of papers, searching through them she found the one with a report on the robbery, “There’s not a great deal of information here,” she said, “except that there were three men, one a very big, tall man, the other two shorter. No other descriptions or anything.” “Do we think it’s the same people who have got Louise, then?” This from Lyn, “Because if so I can at least say that the big man had white ha…” “That’s it!” the exclamation from Miss Wilson made them all jump, they looked across at her in astonishment, she in turn looked over at Lyn, “Lyn, think carefully, you said they were all wearing normal ski suits? What colour suit was the big man, the one with white hair wearing?” The girl thought for a moment, then, “He wore a brilliant red suit, Miss Wilson, the man who hit me wore blue and the other one yellow,” “It’s the red one that’s important,” Miss Wilson turned triumphantly to her friend, “Hilda, red suit and white hair?” The Head looked puzzled for a moment then suddenly understood, “Santa!” she breathed. The Prefects all looked puzzled and Miss Wilson explained about the figure she had seen the day of the storm. “But if he was there then, but not in the safety hut,” Alison began, “That means he’s got to have some other form of shelter up there!” “Exactly, and it’s likely to be where they’re keeping Louise!” Miss Wilson turned to her friend, “It means that while I go up there to keep this rendezvous, you can arrange some form of rescue!” Miss Annersley shook her head, “Nell, what makes you think it will be you making the rendezvous?” she said quietly. Her friend turned sharply, “Of course I’m the one to keep the rendezvous, Hilda,” she said quickly, “And don’t tell me you’re pulling rank because I’ll not accept it! There’s no way that you are fit enough to do this!” “Nell I’m fully fit now.” Miss Annersley’s voice remained calm as she replied, “I managed to win almost all of our races the other day, and rescue you!” “That’s beside the point, Hilda,” Nell Wilson reacted rather angrily, “I’m the logical one for the rendezvous, they are unlikely to be gentle and I’m stronger than you!” The Prefects watched in silence as the argument continued. Miss Annersley smiled, “The fact that you are stronger is one good reason for you to be one of the rescue party, Nell. Mere physical strength is not going to help if facing an armed gang! There is another even more important reason why I should be the one to make that rendezvous and come face-to-face with these men,” “And what is that?” the response from Miss Wilson was snapped out, while the Deputy Head glared at her friend. “I’m less likely to lose my temper, Nell.” Miss Annersley said softly. There was a deadly silence that seemed to stretch for hours, although it was probably less than a minute in total, then, “Damn! I really hate it when you’re right, Hilda!” |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by xanthe on Dec 14th, 2003, 9:53pm Thank you Lesley :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 14th, 2003, 9:57pm on 12/12/03 at 01:58:35, Esmeralda wrote:
Esmeralda, I ended up with a nasty scald, due to an accident with about a gallon of coffee, unfortunately I still had to work!! Lesley, this story is great!! More soon please!! :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Esmeralda on Dec 14th, 2003, 9:58pm Lesley, this is so brilliantly plotted and wee executed too - and despite the seriousness of the situation, the last line still raised a smile - mind you, I am trusting you to bring this to a satisfactorily happy ending, you won't let me down will you? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Dec 14th, 2003, 10:16pm Thank you, Lesley! I love it when Hilda gets the better of Nell ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 14th, 2003, 10:45pm Lesley, I love how complete this story is. There's not a scene that doesn't or won't have significance later. I've been puzzling about how 'Santa' could possibly fit into this and only twigged when the white hair was mentioned for the first time. *starts vigorous applause* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 14th, 2003, 10:50pm I hadn't connected the robbers with the 'vision' Bill had in the snow until now. Wonderful Lesley. Hoping for many more Real CS adventures in the new year. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 14th, 2003, 10:59pm Carolyn, do you mean that you know we aren't getting any more of this story until the New Year? *wibbles pathetically* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:04pm No, I hope there lots more of this to come. Lesley hasn't said anything to me. I just hope that there will many NEW Real CS stories to come. Sorry to have confuzzled you. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Abi on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:08pm Lesley, another few gripping, exciting installments here! I really don't know how you do it! Please don't keep us waiting too long for the next part. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:08pm Oh, okay. That makes sense. *calms down slowly* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:12pm *pats hand* Now take a deep breath and everything will be fine soon. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:14pm Thanks, Mummy. ;) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:20pm *grins!* *thinks Carolyn would've had to start very young in that case!!* ;) ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:40pm In the virtual world, it's not impossible... |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:48pm I.m only ten years older that you, but if you need mothering then so be it... Clean your room, comb your hair, go to bed, stay in bed and sleep, wash your neck, brush your teeth, have a hug, eat some fruit, take your coat off indoors or you won't feel the benefit when you go out, eat your crusts they'll make your hair curl, and don't argue back! Boy, I'm glad I don't really have to do that to you lot. This is where I get a break from all that stuff. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:55pm *lol* Well, let's see. My room does need cleaning, my hair can't be combed until it's dry, it's only 11am, I don't need to sleep as it's early, my neck was washed in the shower this morning, my teeth do need cleaning, I need a hug very, very badly, I should eat more fruit, and it's going to be thirty degrees outside today, so do I really need to wear a coat outdoors? Oh, yes, my hair curls naturally, and I never would answer back! *phew* ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Carolyn P on Dec 14th, 2003, 11:57pm Glad to hear it! Have plenty of hugs, there always some to spare. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Abi on Today at 12:00am Also eat chocolate *always Abi's best piece of advice* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by KB on Today at 12:03am Glad I was able to satisfy you with my list, Carolyn, and thanks for the hugs! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Today at 7:45am Morning, Lesley! *waves vigorously* Does this mean you've got to work nice & early, today? Any chance of a snippet? :-* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Today at 8:01am Morning Catherine! I'm actually on a day off today - I can't sit still for long though as my heating has decided to die! Should get more of this later! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Today at 8:14am Hope the heating decides to come on again soon, Lesley! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Jennie on Today at 8:21am Poor you, no heating, Lesley. Hope you can get a repair man out to it today. I'm loving this, and hoping for lots more. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Today at 10:27am *Hopefully repair man will be here this afternoon! Until then I'm actually doing housework to keep warm! Next bit!* The Prefects all found themselves turning away to prevent Miss Wilson seeing that they were smiling. After a few minutes the Deputy Head had calmed down sufficiently to continue the discussion. “Alright, stipulated that the Head will keep the rendezvous,” she said ruefully, “what about me? From what Louise said I’m going to have to remain here, hardly coming to your rescue!” Before Miss Annersley could reply her mobile rang again, “Is that Miss Annersley?” An unknown American voice, the Head confirmed her identity, “Gene Duchek here, ma’am, understand Bill Gates has contacted you about my arrival?” “Are you the expert flying here from Melbourne, Mr Duchek?” “Yes ma’am, should be arriving at closest airfield within the hour - and it’ll take another hour to travel to your location. Bill told me about your problem, Miss Annersley, if there’s anything I can do to help you’ve got it! I can make a computer sit up and beg!” The American was not boasting, just stating fact. After thanking the man, Miss Annersley turned to the rest of the group, “perhaps Mr Duchek will be able to resolve that problem, Nell.” She said, “Though I must admit to having rather more concerns about exactly how we will get a rescue party up the mountain without the kidnappers seeing it!” “We need some form of diversion, Miss Annersley,” Claire Johansen put in, “Agreed Claire,” Miss Wilson nodded, “unfortunately it must be a totally plausible reason why it would be impossible to keep a close watch on the cable car, something that will mean that no one travels to the slopes in the morning. We need a celebrity…” her voice trailed off as an idea struck both her and the Head at the same time. They looked at each other, “Is he back in Australia, Hilda?” Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes, Sharlie said she was meeting him during this holiday!” “I’ll contact Peggy.” Miss Wilson moved across to the kitchen area for a little privacy and started to make a call on her mobile. … Some hours later the Head stood in the cable car; it was just after midday and she was the only one taking the ride to the top of the mountain. At the top she walked over to the safety hut, smiling at Jack Simons, “I understand there is a package for me?” she asked. “Oh yes, left here yesterday, don’t know who left it though,” the employee smiled, he passed the package across “on your own today?” “Yes, the news of a possible concert has kept my friend in the resort,” Miss Annersley smiled. She went outside in the brilliant sunshine and opened the package. There was a small map and a compass inside, along with some written directions. Strapping on her skis she set off. An hour or so later, after discovering the third package in a tree stump, Miss Annersley was pleased to see that this one promised to be the final leg. Even for an expert skier, the speed that she had had to move from one package to another had been somewhat tiring. Reaching the map reference stated on the last message, Miss Annersley removed her skis and discarded them and the sticks. She stood facing down the slope, next to a large fir tree, as instructed. After a wait of some 15 minutes there was a noise behind her and the touch of a revolver in her back… |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Today at 12:15pm Aaaarrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhhhhhh!!! Lesley!!!!!!!!!! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Today at 2:07pm Was there a problem, Catherine? ;) *Next bit!* A low voice spoke, “Who are you? What are you doing here?” “My name is Hilda Annersley, I was instructed to wait here by the people responsible for abducting one of my pupils.” Miss Annersley’s voice was composed. “Put your arms up, away from your sides,” the voice ordered, when the Head did so the voice snapped out a command to an accomplice, “Search her!” A yellow suited man wearing a balaclava on his head stepped into Miss Annersley’s view. He proceeded to first manually search her for any hidden tracking devices, once complete he removed some detection equipment from his pocket and ran it over the woman, “She’s clean,” he reported back, “Hands behind you!” The order was given to Miss Annersley, she obeyed and felt handcuffs securing her wrists. “Now, you come with us!” As he spoke the owner of the voice moved into view, a big, tall man wearing a bright red ski suit. He was not wearing any mask and the Head could see that he did indeed have white hair and a white beard. The second man appeared on her other side, dressed in yellow, he had removed the balaclava. The fact that, now they knew she could not be followed, neither man bothered to hide his face, was extremely worrying for Miss Annersley. It seemed to mean that they did not care that she could identify them. After walking for some twenty minutes a small hut appeared, it was obviously older than the safety huts but sturdily built and, nestled down between the trees and snow drifts, very difficult to spot. The two men took their prisoner into the hut. Miss Annersley looked around her, the main room of the hut was fairly spacious and had a log fire burning. There were three cots along the walls and, in one corner, sat a third man looking at the screen of a laptop computer. He looked up as they entered, “Her partner is on-line at the moment,” he reported, “She’s answered the call every ten minutes, no problem,” “Excellent,” the big man seemed pleased, he turned to the thinner one in yellow, “how long until we can make that transaction, Alan?” “We have to wait for the satellite to be directly overhead, dad,” he replied, “about an hour,” The older man grunted, “OK, put her in with the girl for now.” Alan nodded and, holding her arm, dragged the Head over to a door to the right of the room, he unlocked the door, pushed her inside and locked the door behind her. Hilda Annersley blinked a few times to allow her eyes to get used to the gloom, she was in a small, windowless room devoid of furniture except for a bed, on the bed was Louise! The girl looked up, “Miss Annersley, is that you?” The Head walked over and knelt beside the bed, “It is, Louise, how are you?” Louise smiled very slightly, “Feeling a little better now, Miss Annersley,” she said, though her white face and worried expression belied her words. “Sorry I can’t stand up and let you sit down, but…” she lifted her hand to show she was handcuffed to the bed. Miss Annersley nodded, then rose and walked over to the door, she kicked the door twice, hard and, as she was wearing ski boots, the noise was loud. After a short wait the door was unlocked and Alan appeared, “What do you want?” he asked belligerently, “I should like you to remove the handcuffs from both Louise and myself please,” Miss Annersley’s request was made calmly and she could have been asking a neighbour if she could borrow some sugar. The man looked at her in astonishment, “Go to Hell!” he replied, and made to close the door, a command from the older man stopped him. Miss Annersley turned to the leader of the gang, “This room can be securely locked, there are three of you and you are all armed,” she pointed out reasonably. “By removing the restraints you will allow me to give a small measure of comfort to the girl. You do want her to remember her passwords when it comes to logging-in the information?” The big man stared at her for a while, then, “take the cuffs off both of them!” He ordered. Turning back to the woman he continued, “only while you’re in there.” Miss Annersley nodded in acknowledgement. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by PatW on Today at 2:31pm She's so cool, isn't she? Never shows any nerves. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Jennie on Today at 2:48pm Yay for the Abbess. What does she have up her sleeve now? I'd hate to be one of those men whern she's got him at her mercy. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Vikki on Today at 3:46pm *crosses fingers for Hilda and Louise's safety!!* :o |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Esmeralda on Today at 4:28pm Well, I'm sure that Hiulda is going to get the better of the kidnappers, tho' at the moment I can't see how she's going to manage it, the odds seem very much against her, and I don't like the fact that the kidnappers have allowed her to see them. Looking forward to seeing more of Mr Mathers though - I presume he is the celebrity in question? |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Today at 6:09pm LESLEY! How mean to leave it there we want to know what happens! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Today at 6:41pm *Well Chloe I can only do this in short bursts - I've no heating until tomorrow and it's cold sitting still! Next bit!* She waited until the man, Alan, had removed both sets of cuffs and vacated the room; as the door was being locked she turned to the girl on the bed, “Louise?” she said softly, Louise stood up and ran into the Head’s arms, Miss Annersley held her close, trying to sooth her. “It’s alright Louise, you’re not alone now.” she said softly, guiding the girl back to the bed. They both sat on the bed, Louise crying softly into Miss Annersley’s shoulder, the Head rocked her slightly. After some minutes she stopped crying and raised her head, “Sorry, Miss Annersley, didn’t mean to be such a baby,” “No matter, Louise, after your ordeal I think you are justified.” Miss Annersley smiled and received a very slight smile in return, “Did they hurt you?” Louise shook her head, “No, although the one in blue, he said things,” she shivered slightly and the Head was quick to hug her again to dispel the memory. “Miss Annersley I know what they want, they want my money.” she began, “But I don’t think they’ll just take it and go. The one in red, he’s in charge, I heard him say there was no need to wear disguises around me or around you. That can only mean that they are planning to dispose of us!” “Perhaps, Louise,” Miss Annersley’s low tones brought some comfort to the girl, “but there is still hope.” Louise swallowed, “You placed yourself in danger for me, Miss Annersley, and you don’t even seem afraid.” “Of course I was there for you Louise, and I had to fight Miss Wilson for the privilege!” She smiled and saw a small smile cross the girl’s lips, “As for not being afraid, yes I am, of course I’m afraid. But my experiences last year taught me that showing fear is exactly what cowards and bullies want. The more you can attempt to show that you are not affected by their games, the more it upsets them. The more likely they are to make a mistake.” “And if they don’t make a mistake?” Louise’s voice was very quiet, The Head looked over at the girl, realising as she did, that Louise was almost 19 years old and classed as an adult, she spoke solemnly, “if the absolute worst happens, Louise,” she said softly, “you will have your self respect and you will know that you are loved, both by people in this world and in the next.” Louise straightened up and nodded, drying her tears as she did so. The two women sat and waited, an arm around each other. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Catherine_B on Today at 6:46pm Oh Lesley, Lesley... WONDERFUL! :) I love your Hilda even more than EBD's. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by xanthe on Today at 7:11pm *applauds* thank you Lesley *sniffle* *gives Lesley a huggle to warm her up* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Jennie on Today at 7:22pm Wonderful, Lesley, still the great new Hilda that we've all come to respect and admire. BTW, Is your heating on again? I hope so. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Today at 7:36pm No Jennie - not till tomorrow - apparently I need a new circuit board for the boiler ??? They can get one tomorrow - so tonight I freeze! Just going into the kitchen to turn the oven on!! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Esmeralda on Today at 7:40pm (((Lesley))) And it's really cold tonight as well! *Digs out spare blankets, folds them neatly and send them down the modem. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Kathy_S on Today at 7:48pm Know anyone who could loan you a portable electric heater? When my furnace was out for 2 wks last winter, I was fortunate enough to obtain 3 from a kind neighbor: two to keep the pipes from freezing and one to aim at me and the cat. They're still here, waiting for the next unfortunate, but I don't see any way to get them there by tonight.... Edited to add: In case it’s cold enough that the pipes are in danger, the furnace folks recommended opening any cabinets under the sinks and keeping a slow trickle of water going – what I did until Hank & Julie came to the rescue. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Jennie on Today at 7:55pm I hope that you've got a hot-water bottle, Lesley, at least then you'll be warm in bed. |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Chloe on Today at 8:00pm Aww poor Lesley but to quote my teacher who made us take off our coats and then opened the windows and fire exit door as she thought the room was too hot :o "if you write you'll keep warm" ::) Thank you *sends spare hot water bottles and blankets* |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by catherine on Today at 8:10pm Thanks for yet more great story, Lesley but please keep warm! Help yourself to a hug! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Cathy on Today at 8:28pm I'm really loving this story. I'm on sick leave until my annual holidays kick in, so I've had lots of time to read this drabble and all the other ones. I was sitting through all the interminable speeches at my daughters' presentation day yesterday and I kept thinking "I wonder if Lesley has written any more". Love that Miss Annersley has Bill Gates under her thumb! I hope there will be lots more Real Chalet School drabbles after this one. (Looks hopeful and pulls up a sun lounge and gets comfortable.) |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by Lesley on Today at 8:34pm Cathy Considering that I currently have no heating and it's supposed to freeze tonight I think the comment about sun loungers was a little less than tactlful! :P Sorry to hear you are on sick leave. If I can un-freeze my fingers for long enough there should be some more later! ;D |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by catherine on Today at 8:37pm Wrap yourself in your duvet, Lesley or get into bed! |
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Title: Re: Santa in July? (Real CS) Mk 2. Post by xanthe on Today at 8:39pm *sends Lesley some gloves to keep her hands warm* ;D |
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