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Title: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Dec 30th, 2003, 7:22am Grizel stretched herself as the train pulled into Victoria Station. The last few days had been rather busy. She had seen her stepmother settled into Sea View, tidied up the last of the legal matters with Mr Atkins and finished her stay in Taverton. She had slipped in to farewell Cookie before driving to Dartmouth. She had found Commander Mastertons card in her back and had called his wife on the Saturday evening and had been promptly collected and given a wonderful supper at the Mastertons house and had stayed quite late telling Mrs Masterton all the happenings in New Zealand and showing her photos that Grizel had brought with her. On Sunday morning she had caught the train for London and was now arriving there. She had three days in London and was looking forward to shopping on Oxford Street. You would almost think I was a tourist she chuckled to herself. But I know there will be big changes. The porters were efficient and 10 minutes after arriving Grizel was in a taxi heading for a quiet hotel that Madge Russell had recommended in central London. She checked in at reception and was just unpacking her hand luggage when there was a knock at the door. Opening the door Grizel found herself starring into blue eyes that had never yet needed glasses. Grizel stood in the doorway looking like a stunned codfish. M mm miss Annersley she gasped. You are in Switzerland. As she said it she realized what an idiot she sounded but Hilda understood her meaning. Grizel stood aside and gestured Miss Annersley into her room. Actually I am not in Switzerland my dear she smiled at Grizel. All though I do understand your sentiments. I had to fly over to meet Madge and Jem over some changes at school. I fly back tomorrow morning so Madge told me you should be here if things had gone according to plan. Have you unpacked a few things. Then I suggest we adjourn to the lounge and you can bring me up to date on all your doing over coffee and then dinner. Miss Annersley looked over at Grizel. They had had a wonderful evening reminiscing about the old Tyrol days and hearing all of the news about Grizels life in NZ and the Chalet school in Gornetz Platz. Well my dear it is nearly eleven oclock and I have to be up at six to catch my flight so we had better call it an evening. I want you to know Grizel that I am proud of you. You have made a wonderful success of your life in New Zealand and you have grown in ways I never thought you would. You handled the situation with your stepmother with dignity and poise and both Madge and Jem were impressed with the new Grizel. You have amply repaid my trust in you and I am proud to know you. Grizel sat there blinking back the tears. Thank you she said. I have tried. And you have succeeded. Now have a safe journey back to New Zealand. Vaya Con Dios Grizel. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Dec 30th, 2003, 7:25am Grizel was standing at the bow rail of one of the green and gold ferries that plied Sydney harbor. She was on her way back from Manly after catching up with a former Mistress from the Chalet School Con Stewart now Con McKenzie. For the last week Grizel had been being a tourist in Sydney and had been and seen all the sights that make Sydney such a great city. She had sat in Mrs Macquarries chair overlooking the harbor, explored the historic Rocks where the first settlement had been and had taken a bush trip to the Blue Mountains and seen the Three Sisters and heard the wonderful legend of the bunyip. The trip across the harbor had been magnificent and Con McKenzie had welcomed Grizel into her home. Con had asked her how Hilda was and reduced Grizel to shrieks of laughter as she explained about Emerence Hope and how guilty she felt in causing the Hopes to dispatch Emerence to the Chalet School. Grizel had given her all the latest news that she had got from Hilda the previous week and then spent a pleasant afternoon of do you remember. The ferry rumbled into Circular Quay and Grizel disembarked and walked through the concourse and along the harbor front to George Street. Her hotel was two blocks up from the Rocks on George Street so it was a pleasant stroll. Grizel was feeling fairly pleased with life. Wrapped very securely in her suitcase were three of the lacquered boxes from Singapore. She had managed to find exactly what she had wanted for the twins and then had seen another one with the most delicate crane painted on it. She had bought this one for Moira and she knew that Moira would love the delicacy of the crane. She was flying back to Auckland the next day and was looking forward to getting home. There had been a letter waiting for her at the hotel when she arrived from Deira. The shop was running well and her young cousin was helping in the shop. Moira was not doing so well. I’ve had her to the doctors Deira wrote but there is nothing that they can do. It is the progression of her disease, but it hurts Grizel, it hurts to watch her in so much pain. She is looking forward to you coming back and showing her photos and post cards of where you have been. I have bought a television and put it in her bedroom and she watches that a lot now and it helps to keep her mind occupied. There have been some excellent documentaries on places and nature which she loves. Grizel had put together a package of pictures and postcards for Moira and in addition to the crane box she had bought a Chinese silk robe in Singapore. It was bright green and had a garish dragon embroidered over it and she knew that Moira would enjoy wearing it as the silk was soft again the skin. Grizel had also bought robes for herself Lisa and Deira although slightly more subdued in the color and embroidery. The latter two robes were going to be birthday presents during the year. The following afternoon Grizel gazed out onto Auckland as they flew in over it. It had been a calm flight and it was a lovely summers day in Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf was bright blue with dozens of white sails scudding about on it. She remembered reading somewhere that New Zealand had one of the highest per capita boat ownerships and when she looked down on the harbor it was certainly borne out. The came into land at Auckland airport and rumbled to a stop. After the familiar messages Grizel stood up and got her bag from the overhead locker. Exiting down the stairs she went inside to baggage control and then on to customs. As she went out the of customs towards arrivals she was not really paying that much attention and accidentally swung her luggage trolly into the path of another passenger. Oh I am sorry. Please excuse me she exclaimed. That is fine replied the other passenger. They pushed their trollies along the corridor. I’m Tony Merton he introduced himself. I’m a civil engineer with the council here. Grizel Cochrane she replied. I am co owner of Notes and Readings near Queen Street. I know your shop he replied. I’ve walked past it a few times since I moved to Auckland but maybe now I will have to stop in. Before Grizel could reply they had exited the corridor and into the arrivals hall and she was smothered in a whirlwind that flew at her and hugged her madly. Grizel Grizel Lisa was laughing at her. Give the woman some air said a familiar voice as Alex pushed forward. You’ll strangle her. They moved out of the way of the other arrivals and headed towards the carpark. Gosh said Grizel. You don’t look much different. A little plumper but that’s about it. Oh you have no idea how wonderful it is to be able to move about again. I was beginning to think I would never see my toes again but it was all the twins. Speaking of twins what have you done with them? They are at home asleep with 2 sets of doting grandparents watching their every move so Alex and I decided we would come and get you and take you home and then we are taking you around to mum and dads for dinner and then you can meet the family. By the way who was Mr tall dark and ‘andsome you walked out with. Oh he was just a passenger on the plane. I nearly skittled him with my luggage trolly on the way out. Tony someone he said. An engineer with the council. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Dec 30th, 2003, 9:44am Oh wonderful - good to see more of this! So sad knowing what's going to happen re Tony Merton and with Moira. :'( Lots more please! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Dec 30th, 2003, 10:15am Thanks for putting that up again, Ravens! I love this series and, like Lesley, I really hope we get more soon. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Dec 30th, 2003, 3:29pm Glad to see this back again Ravenseyes. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Dec 30th, 2003, 4:31pm Thanks from me too Ravenseyes, I'm really enjoying this drabble. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Dec 30th, 2003, 6:48pm Thank you Raven!! Good to have it back! *sprays thread with TEM repellant!!* ;) |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Dec 30th, 2003, 8:57pm *reminds Vikki that didn't work last time* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Dec 30th, 2003, 9:32pm *points out to KB that this is a new improved formula!!* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Dec 30th, 2003, 9:45pm *tells Vikki that, if this thread gets eaten again, it's her fault for tempting providence* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Dec 30th, 2003, 10:07pm *blames the company that made the repellant!!* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Dec 31st, 2003, 12:58am Later that evening Grizel sat on the sofa at the Fletcher house with a baby on either arm. The twins were both brown haired but Ryan had Alexs brown eyes and Nicky had Lisas bluey green eyes. For three week old babies they were both calm and placid and seem to enjoy being passed around. They are being christened next Sunday said Lisa. We thought we would do it at St Marys. Kate is flying in on Friday so you and she are Godmothers and Michael and Dominic are the godfathers. You remember Alexs best man and grooms man. Mic and Nic. I see said Grizel trying not to grin – and you were going to ask me when ? Ask you what asked Lisa To be a godparent silly – to which one. Oohh have I not mentioned it before Lisa trailed off Nope said Grizel with a huge grin on her face Bother I was sure I wrote to you sometime. All those hormones must have addled my brain. You and Kate are godmothers to them both and Mic and Nic are godfathers. It’s a new service the church is doing. Not as formal as a fullscale christening. It is welcoming them into Gods family and you agree to be there for them. We thought it sounded really nice when we heard about it and got in touch with St Marys and they do so here we go. The following Sunday found Grizel attired in her copper silk sheath standing at the front of St Marys by the Sea pledging to love and guide Nicky and Ryan through their life. The lacquer boxes were at the Fletchers ready for Lisa and Alex to pack and take back to Wellington. Lisa and exclaimed over the beauty of them and promptly declared they would go in the china cabinet until the twins were old enough to appreciate them. Grizel had agreed that she would fly down to Wellington in September for Lisas birthday and mentally congratulated herself that she had Lisas present already. Grizel had spent Monday at home with Moira. Moira had loved the box and the Chines robe had been a huge success. They had spent the day going through Grizels photos and post cards and Grizel had told Moira about the different places. Moira was wearing her robe and propped up on the pillows with the window wide open letting a gentle breeze blow in she was as comfortable as she could be. She was much worse now and found it difficult to hold things. The television was a blessing as she could watch it and it kept her mind occupied. Books were difficult as she could no longer hold them and she was way past the sort of books that could be read to her. She enjoyed some of the radio readings of books and plays and twice a week Deira drove her to a new form of therapy she was having. Auckland had no natural hot springs near it so the therapy center at the hospital had designed a bubbling hot pool. In Moiras case they knew there was no cure but the bubble pool relaxed some of the twisted muscles and gave her relief for a while as well as some fun. Grizel heard the side door open then Diera came up stairs. Good afternoon my darlin she cried and went to Moira and gently hugged her. Have ye been having a good day. I have had a great day mum replied Moira. Aunt Grizel and I went through her photos and post cards and she told me so much. I wish I could go to some of those places though but I know I can’t. Her face brightened Mum I even feel a bit hungry tonight. Could you make me one of the egg and cheese omlettes. I am sure I can replied Deira. Now Grizel and I are going downstairs so I will turn the television on and you should be able to see the news soon. Deira and Grizel walked downstairs. Today was one of her better days then said Deira to Grizel. This is the first night for a while that she has asked for some dinner. Yes Grizel replied. She seemed in less pain today and she had a good sleep this afternoon. Mmm I had someone new come into the store this afternoon. Looking for you actually. Looking for me ? Who was it replied Grizel. A chap you met on the plane coming back from Sydney. Tony Merton. Engineer that works for the council she added as Grizel face remained blank. Oh him that’s right. I almost ran him over with my luggage trolley. What did he want ? Presumably to see you. Anyway I told him you would be in tomorrow so I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he stops back. To quote Lisa he’s a bit of alright. Grizel flushed a bit. Oh don’t be silly she said. Anyway I better get back to my own abode and leave you to get dinner. Guten Abend. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Dec 31st, 2003, 1:05am Ooh thanks Ravenseyes, looking forward to watching this develop. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Rachel on Dec 31st, 2003, 1:10am ** settles down quietly with a selection of drinks, nibbles and Orlando Bloom to pass the time until the next part of this story is posted ** Help yourselves to drinks and nibbles but HANDS OFF Orlando! He's mine, all mine, and I claimed him first so there! * wipes the drool from her chin * |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Dec 31st, 2003, 4:17am Thank you Raven!! This is so good. Even though we know what happens in the end, the suspense is still there! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Jennie on Dec 31st, 2003, 5:35pm I'd like some more story too, pleeeeeeeease. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by LulieCat on Dec 31st, 2003, 6:23pm *joins the chants for more* *would like to point out to Rachel that Orlando is in fact MINE and has been for the last three years* *Landy, darling, if you're reading this and want to elope with Rachel, then please remove your dirty underwear from the bedroom floor and dump it on Rachel's instead. Many thanks ;D* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Dec 31st, 2003, 8:05pm *wonders if there's going to be a catfight?* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by LulieCat on Dec 31st, 2003, 9:26pm on 12/31/03 at 20:05:42, Vikki wrote:
Catfight? Me? Never! *gathers all Legolas's weapons, a flame thrower, a carving knife, sparkly pom poms and a horse of Rohan for a quick getaway.* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Jennie on Dec 31st, 2003, 9:34pm But have you been practising sliding down a stone staircase on a shield, Lulie? You and Rachel should have a competition where you both have to do that, the winner gets Orlando. Mind you, I think that if you and Rachel do it, you'll win the battle of the Hornburg hands down. How about that? The CBB versus the fighting Uruk-hai? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by LulieCat on Dec 31st, 2003, 9:38pm Practise Jennie? Practise? I invented the art, my dear! And I eat Uruk-Hai for breakfast, they're delicious with mint sauce! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 2nd, 2004, 2:15am Love the new parts Raven. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 3rd, 2004, 5:10am Eighteen Months Later Grizel sat at her kitchen table gazing out the window at the wet and blustery winters day. A cup of coffee sat steaming untouched on the table in front of her. She was trying to analyze her feelings and was feeling very unsettled/dissatisfied. She couldn’t even put a name to these feelings but she knew that she was off center. Over the past eighteen months Tony Merton had been stopping into the shop and they had found that they had many interests in common. Grizel had introduced Tony to several of her friends and he had joined their circle and attended several concerts and films with them. Grizel and Tony had also attended several concerts and films together. After the last recital they had gone to they had gone out for coffee afterwards and Tony had intimated that he would like to further their friendship. This had caught Grizel because although she enjoyed Tonys company she did not think that she felt for him the way a woman should feel for a man if she was contemplating marriage. Grizel wished that Lisa was here to ask but she hadn’t spoken to Lisa for over six months. Lisa was very involved in being a playcenter mother and all the activities involved around the twins and she and Grizel had drifted apart. Grizel still sent birthday and Christmas cards but that was about all now. But Grizel still remembered a conversation they had had where Lisa had described how she knew that Alex was the one for her. Lisa had described graphically how her stomach had butterflied and how when Alex held her hand she had felt tingly during the beginning of their relationship. After a few months they felt comfortable together and Lisa had said it was like they were two halves of a whole. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 3rd, 2004, 5:11am Grizel thought about these words and her relationship with Tony. Put bluntly she felt no sexual attraction for him what so ever and she really did not want to be Mrs Merton. Taking a mouthful of her now lukewarm coffee she picked up her pen and tried to write her feelings. She valued Tonys friendship but only as a friend. She felt the same way about Tony as she did about Alex or Jack Maynard. A friend. Grizel knew that Tony was going to be disappointed and she wondered how she should tell him. She thought about going and asking Deira but decided against it. Deira had enough worry on her mind without Grizel at the moment. Moira was steadily declining and Grizel privately doubted she would live for many more months. In some ways Grizel felt that would be a blessing because Moira was in constant pain and death would be a merciful release for her. Deira too knew that Moiras release would be merciful but she had to endure the suffering until that time and it was mental anguish to watch her daughter suffer and know that there was nothing that she or anyone else could do for Moira. Meanwhile across town in his flat Tony was also thinking about things. Tony was not an idiot and he had realised from Grizel reaction when he had broached their relation developing further that she had not thought of him in that light nor did she really want to. He knew Grizel and had a pretty good idea that right now she was trying to work things out and tell him gracefully that she only wished to be friends. With Tony sometimes to think was to act so he went downstairs and jumped in the car and wended his way across to Grizels. He had dropped Grizel off several times before but he hadn’t realized that she had a separate entrance as she had never invited him in. He knew that she lived with Deira and Moria and Deira was the Irish woman he had met in the shop the first day he had gone in there and Moira was her daughter. Walking up to the front door he rang the door bell. Deira answered the door and Tony felt his stomach do a strange flip flop. The suffering that Deira was enduring made her look almost etheral. Her brown eyes were dark pools of pain and her skin was pale and translucent. Somehow Tony felt this overwhelming urge to look after her. Can I help you she said. Err ummmm sorry I was looking for Grizel he replied. Come through Deira replied. Her flat is out the back. Tony followed Deira through the house and out the back door. Along there gestured Deira. Tony knocked on Grizels door Tony – what are you doing here exclaimed Grizel. I needed to talk to you Tony replied. I suppose you better come in Grizel said. Tony sat down and looked at Grizel. Grizel I wanted to talk about the other night. The moment I said about furthering our relationship I saw your face. You don’t think of me like that do you? Be honest. Grizel sat at the other end of the table and looked at Tony. You are right Tony. I value our friendship and I enjoy your company but I don’t feel for you the way I think a woman should feel about a man. And I do not think it would be fair to either of us to enter a relationship when one of us does not feel the right way. After a moment or two of awkward silence Tony smiled at her. Thank you Grizel. Your friendship is important and so is your honesty. Well I better be on my way. Do you want a coffee before you go smiled Grizel. Okeydoke. Say tell me – the Irish lass that runs the store with you. That was her that opened the door in the main house wasn’t it? Yes that’s Deira Is she alright.? I know its none of my business but she looked so fragile. Grizel studied the kettle waiting for it to boil and wondered what to tell Tony. Deira was a fairly private person and did not want her affairs shouted from the roof top. You know that Deria has a daughter Moira. Tony nodded. What I did not tell you is that Moira is terminally ill. And right now she is entering the final stages. According to the doctors it will be a miracle if she survives to Christmas. I know this sounds callous but I hope she won’t. She is in constant agony and although they give her pain relief the level that they are giving her now is such that it affects her mentally. And Deira has to watch her suffer like this everyday. She doesn’t come into the shop now because she can not leave Moira. I love Moira dearly but if God was to take her tonite I would rejoice that she is finally free of all the pain and suffering that she has endured. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Jennie on Jan 3rd, 2004, 8:55am Great, Ravenseyes, this was a super way to get Tony to meet Deira. I think that you've brought out the anguish of the Moira situation, it must have been a real wrench to write. It was really touching to see Grizel in such pain for her friend. Thank you. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 3rd, 2004, 9:45am Thank you Ravenseyes - very sad, tragic and realistic. So sad that Grizel and Lisa lost touch, especially as she will shortly need outside support. More please when you can bear to write it. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 3rd, 2004, 7:06pm *dashes over to tissue box, grabs handfuls, and fills pockets!!* This is so weepy!! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Jan 3rd, 2004, 9:32pm Oh thank you Ravenseyes, that must have been difficult, poor Moira, and poor Deira and Grizel. Agree that it's a pity she and Lisa have drifted apart, but I'm glad that she wasn't too involved with Tony Merton, at least that's one ;ess pain for her. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 4th, 2004, 12:45am Thank you Ravenseyes. That was really beautifula nd very moving. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 4th, 2004, 7:51am *sigh* This is lovely, Ravens. I'm glad Grizel was so honest about her feelings for Tony. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 6th, 2004, 3:14am Christmas Day Grizel sat out under the tree. It was Christmas day and the sun was shining. She could hear the neighborhood children yelling and squealing as they were trying out their new Christmas toys. Coming through Deiras window she could hear Deira and then the deeper voice of Tony plus the occasional giggle from Moira. Moira was defying the doctors predictions and after a particularly bad dose of bronchitis where they were all positive she was going to die, so bad that despite the fact they were not practicing Catholics Deira had had a priest give Moira the last rites, she had actually improved slightly. Moira was still in constant pain but the last month she had seemed stronger in herself and had enjoyed watching tv when she could. Moira had taken a shine to Tony and he had been spending a lot of time with Deira and Moira. Grizel was glad as she knew that Deira would need someone to help her during the next year as although Moira had seen this Christmas Grizel truly doubted she would see the next one. Tony clearly felt for Deira and Grizel was pretty sure that Deira reciprocated his feelings. Grizel still liked Tony in a friendly way and he often stopped for a chat at the shop but she hoped that he and Deira would make a go of things. Deira was planning to come back into the shop a couple of days a week if Moira continued to stay as well as she was now. Deira had invited both Grizel and Tony for Christmas dinner. Grizel had offered to help but Deira had said she was to be a real guest. Grizel had several neatly wrapped parcels in her flat to take with her and a bottle of Hawkes Bay wine that she had bought when she went on a tour to Napier and Hastings earlier in the year. She was reading a letter that had arrived from Jo Maynard enclosing several photos of the somewhat lengthy Maynard family and news of several old friends who were still producing copious quantities of children. Mr Atkins had sent her a report on her stepmother and Sea View. Her stepmother had settled happily and seemed to be as well as could be expected. She appeared to be well taken care of and had indicated she was happy there. The house had been rented and was paying the Sea View bills so all was well. She also had a card and photos from Lisa and Alex. The twins would be three at the end of January and they were coming up to visit the parents. Lisa had invited Grizel over to dinner one night while they were up. Grizel was looking forward to this as she had not seen Lisa or Alex for since the twins were six months old. The last item in Grizels pile of reading was a guide to Melbourne. Many people had commented that Melbourne was a pleasant city with extensive cultural and musical happenings so she was thinking of flying over and having Easter there. Grizel Grizel ? come in for dinner Deira called. Grizel smiled and waved to acknowledge she had heard and then went to her flat to collect the presents before going along to Deiras. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 6th, 2004, 3:18am One thing: Grizel doesn't sound as jealous as she obviously was by "Reunion". Is that going to change? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 6th, 2004, 6:44am Did you think that Grizel was jealous in Reunion. I always thought she was exhausted and really pissed off at being left to handle everything while Deira and Tony went off on their honeymoon, and knowing that she had to deal with her fathers estate. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by PatMac on Jan 6th, 2004, 8:20am I've only just found this! Thank you for this drabble. It has put a new perspective on Grizel and the Tony Merton relationship. I thought Deira had 'stolen' him but I've been back to 'Reunion' and can see that your interpretation is just as valid. She was tired, grieving for Moira and her grief not recognised and then - not jealous, but feeling left out of Deira's new life. Very clever and beautifully written. thank you. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Jennie on Jan 6th, 2004, 5:08pm And don't forget that Deira had left Grizel to wind up the business without any help. That must have taken it out of Grizel. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Jan 6th, 2004, 5:19pm I've only just seen the last bit - thanks Raven, I'm really pleased that Grizel is happy for Tony & Deira. *Holds on to the thought that it all turns out well for Grizel, eventually. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 6th, 2004, 6:12pm Thank you Raven! It gets better and better! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 7th, 2004, 12:50am Hey, it's your story. That was just my idea. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 7th, 2004, 11:41pm Thank you Raven this is really lovely. It is nice to see different interpretations of scenes and stories. I'm sure just about every reader has either their own slant on the books or wishes they were slightly different. If we didn't there wouldn't be any drabbles would there? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 8th, 2004, 2:09am Just for KB ;D seome sort of green eyed monster February Grizel roamed along the white sand beach. Further back along the beach Lisa, Alex and the twins were splashing at the waters edge. Grizel had decided to go see if the shop had ice cream and bring back some. Last night she had had dinner with the Fletchers and Lisa had invited her to come across to Waiheke Island today. Although the island was only a 40 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland she had never been there so she had happily joined them and had spent a pleasant day exploring the quaint village and lounging on the beach. She had asked Alex about Melbourne as he had gone there several times for work and from his descriptions she had decided to go there for Easter. Things had been going fairly well since Christmas. Moira seemed to be relatively stable and Grizel had noticed that Tony Merton seemed to be a fairly permanent fixture at Deiras arriving on Saturday morning and leaving Saturday night after dinner and then reappearing the next day. He would frequently be around for dinner during the week. The only annoyance in Grizels life at the moment was that she seemed to be running the shop single handed. Grizel did not grudge Deria the time spent with Moira but she was getting very tired with running shop, doing the ordering and the accounts. She had suggested to Deira that they employee an assistant to come into the shop so Grizel could still have her days off but Deira hadn?t really been interested in discussing the idea and and had been more worried about getting dinner ready because Tony was coming. Grizel wanted to sit down and have a talk with Deira about the shop but it seemed that Tony was always at the house out of work hours and Grizel did not want to discuss the shop business in front of him. Grizel knew she would have to talk to Deira soon and was not really looking forward to it. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 8th, 2004, 2:37am How can you say such a thing. Of course I still care about the shop. You know I can?t come in with Moira so sick. Just because Tony liked me better than you, you act like I am doing something wrong. Grizel rocked back on her chair and stared at Deria. What are you talking about? Tony did not like me better than you. Tony and I were friends, nothing more. He knew I was not interested in furthering our friendship before he even began to be interested in you. I asked you to discuss the store. I realize you can not come in because of Moira, but if you remember I asked you about employing an assistant because I am now doing everything. You said you would think about it later because Tony was coming over for dinner. Every time recently I have tried to make a time to discuss the store Tony is here. He is not a partner in the store and I do not think it is appropriate to discuss business matters in front of him. However, discussing the shop at this time will not be a good idea either so when you have calmed down and stopped talking such jealous vulgar nonsense perhaps we can discuss things then. Grizel rose to her feet and made a dignified exit out the door back to her flat. Once inside she collapsed rather than sat on the sofa. Never in her wildest dreams had she expected Deira to accuse her of being jealous of Deira and Tonys relationship especially in such a juvenile manner. Grizel felt a bit shaken at the moment so decided that a brandy was called for. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Cathy on Jan 8th, 2004, 3:06am Well done. I was not quite convinced that Grizel was not jealous of Deira, from my reading of Reunion, but now you have convinced me. Begins to chant ... |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 8th, 2004, 5:17am *feels very special at having convinced Ravens to write that just for me* Thank you, honey! :-* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Rachael on Jan 8th, 2004, 9:55am Congrats, Ravensyes - this is brilliant! And loads for me to catch up on since Xmas! :D I also like your interpretation of Reunion - I had always assumed that she was jealous of Deira/Tony and was worried that this wouldn't fit so well with the new, softer Grizel but I can now totally see the exhaustion and loneliness which are such different emotions from jealousy due to attraction I very much liked the scene with Miss Annersley and glad that she was able to meet with Grizel and be so encouraging ... thank you! Am also relieved that Grizel is handling Deira so well - the Grizel in and prior to Carola would have flown off the handle completely ... *very much enjoying story but sadly thinking that there can't be very much left ... and looking forward to the last bits with some trepidation because they'll be so sad ... :'(* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Jan 8th, 2004, 10:47am Thank you Ravens - I feel sorry for Deira because of Moira, but she's definitely being selfish, and rather childish, about the shop. No wonder poor Grizel was exhausted if she didn't get any time off. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 8th, 2004, 10:57am Shall we chant, folks? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Rachael on Jan 8th, 2004, 11:35am OK! We want more! We want more! We want more! We want more! We want more! We want more! We want more! We want more! We want more! We want more! ETA - Ppppppppplllllllllllllleeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaassssssseeeeee |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 8th, 2004, 11:39am I think that should just about do it, Rachael... |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 8th, 2004, 8:31pm Thank you Raven, and may we have some more soon please? *trots off to join Rachael's chant* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 8th, 2004, 11:14pm Thank you Raven this is so good. Goes off to find others to join in chant..... More please! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 9th, 2004, 1:50am Grizel was in a foul temper. She threw her bag onto the sofa and slammed through to her bedroom. She gazed around her bedroom and could not find any outlet for her frustration. She needed to get it out of her somehow and she could not think of an outlet. There were no piano pupils to take it out on but if she did not get it out somehow she would scream or have another brandy and just lately Grizel felt she had been having a few too many brandies in the evenings. It was a pleasant evening and because of daylight saving it would not get dark for a couple of hours yet. Grizel changed into a shirt and some slacks and put on some comfortable sandles. Picking up her bag she left the house and went up to the bus stop and caught the bus to the ferry terminal. Once there she caught the ferry over to Devonport. Along the beach front were paths that meandered along the beaches. Grizel started of striding along one. Caught up in her own thoughts she took little notice of the time until she stopped to get her breath at the top of a hill. Gazing around she realized she did not have a clue where she was and when she looked at her watch she realized she had been walking for nearly an hour. And not wandering either. Spotting a sign at a path junction she discovered that she had actually covered nearly 7 miles from the Devonport ferry terminal. Oh bugger she thought using language that would have earned her an order mark for sure. Nothing to do for it but start back. Certainly the walk had released a lot of her frustration and she was not in such a temper now but things were definitely going to need some changes. At eight o?clock Grizel arrived back in Devonport and went to the Devonport Hotel that had a lovely dining room overlooking the harbor. The last ferry left to Auckland at 10.30 so she knew she had time to have dinner and then get the ferry back. Over a lovely dinner of fresh fish and salad she contemplated what she was going to have to do. Reaching into her bag she pulled out a notebook and began jotting down points the first being that she needed an assistant. She and Deira had scarcely spoken since Deira had accused her of being jealous. For the past 4 weeks Grizel had avoided going near the house using the driveway entrance and keeping to herself. In some ways she was not sure of how to deal with Deiras accusations because it was totally outside her experience. However if she put the issues about the shop in a letter she could put it in Deiras letterbox and maybe then they could have a conversation about it. She hoped that Deira would have calmed down and would be willing to look at things logically. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Cathy on Jan 9th, 2004, 2:05am Hopes that Grizel will get a chance to talk to Deira but has a bad feeling that she won't because something sad will happen first. Poor Grizel. I love the way you've drawn her. Grizel was always one of my favourite characters and EBD was never fair to her, I thought. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Jan 9th, 2004, 2:05am Can sympathise with Grizel's temper, for once. And I omehow don't think things are going to get much better before they get worse. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 9th, 2004, 4:12am *hopes nothing is happening to Moira while Grizel is out* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Rachael on Jan 9th, 2004, 9:43am Wonderful again, Ravenseyes :) Good to see Grizel being human in her anger but trying to resolve it practically I do have bad feelings about Moira though - it will be very sad if there reconciliation only comes about once Moira has died ... |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Jennie on Jan 9th, 2004, 2:17pm It would really be sad if Moira were to die while Grizell was absent, as Grizel had been so loving and kind to Moira, and the child must miss her. Deira should realize this, and apologise to Grizel, and ask her to come back for Moira's sake. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 9th, 2004, 7:40pm Missed this for a while - glad I've caught up. Raveneyes I love your interpretation of what happened and feel it could be equally as valid as the one about Grizel wanting Tony for herself - think that was widespread because Joey and (I think) Rosalie discussed it and Rosalie suggested that Grizel could have feelings for Tony. But they could have been wrong! Waiting for the rest fairly patiently! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 9th, 2004, 8:53pm Pretty please may we have a bit more Raven? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by PatMac on Jan 9th, 2004, 9:49pm I agree with Lesley. Jo and Rosalie had not real life experience and would see the situation very simplistically. I'm sure someone has explored Rosalie's life but have no chance to explore the archives short of taking a six month sabbatical! More please. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 10th, 2004, 3:41am on 01/09/04 at 19:40:58, Lesley wrote:
I also feel it's because of Joey's next question, which is about Rosalie marrying. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 10th, 2004, 9:38am on 01/09/04 at 21:49:02, PatMac wrote:
There's a wonderful 'alternate reality' drabble that has Rosalie as an important character - Rachel's superb Changes for Con - but otherwise I don't think she has had a great deal of interest - perhaps you should take it on Pat? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 10th, 2004, 10:28am Yes, a story about Rosalie would make wonderful reading! But what a shame there's no more of this story to enoy... |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 11th, 2004, 12:07am Grizel carefully shut and locked her suitcase. She looked around and was satisfied that she had got everything she needed. It was the Thursday before Easter and she was flying over to Melbourne later that afternoon. She had written a letter to Deira after he epic walk in Devonport and putting it in writing had helped both of them. Deiras cousins daughter was studying at Auckland University so she had agreed to come in two afternoons a week and help in the store as it gave her some extra money. Also Sallys beau was studying to be an accountant so the next thing had been that he had started coming with Sally and had taken over the books. Grizel found her life much less tiring now as she was not trying to do everything. Sally had proved so competent that Grizel felt quite confident in having her open the store on her own for the Wednesday and Thursday after Easter as Grizel would only fly back on the Thursday. Putting things in writing had also meant that Grizel and Deira had taken the time to work through their issues. They were back to being friends although at the back of her mind Grizel still rankled over the accusation the Deira had made. Another reason for the resumption of their friendship was Moira. During the weeks of their avoiding each other Moira had fretted for Grizel. Grizel tried to pop in every two or three nights to see Moira. Moira just enjoyed hearing about the people who came into the shop and what was happening down town. Moira knew that she was dying. She had asked Grizel about dying two nights aago when Grizel and Deira were both with her. Grizel had remembered Madames words from a visit at the Sonnalpe when Grizel was headgirl. Dying is just falling asleep and waking with God – that is all it is. The reason we are frightened of it is that it means change and often we are frightened of change. Deira had continued and part of the reason we are frightened is that it means change for us too. You know Moira that I love you more than anything and I know that when you go to wake with God it is the best thing for you, you will be done with the pain and the torment of this life but I also selfishly do not want you to go because it will be sorrow for me and it will hurt. But I do not want you to try and stay here. Whenever you are ready to go to God just let yourself go and remember that we love you. Moira had fallen asleep soon after that and Grizel and Deira had left the room. They got downstairs to the kitchen were Deira had burst into tears. Oh Grizel she sobbed. Moira is going to be gone soon. I can feel it. I know replied Grizel and Moira knows too. And like you said we will grieve but we will rejoice for her too. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 11th, 2004, 12:18am Thank you, that was so sad, yet so wonderful. :( |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Jan 11th, 2004, 12:44am Thanks from me too, Raven, we all it was coming, but :'( |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 11th, 2004, 6:00am Good for Grizel, being able to forgive Deira! She wouldn't have been able to in "Carola"! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 11th, 2004, 7:13pm *makes a long arm for the tissue box!* Thank you Raven, I don't envy you writing the next few scenes!!! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 11th, 2004, 11:57pm on 01/11/04 at 19:13:12, Vikki wrote:
Neither do I! Good luck with it! :-* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 12th, 2004, 5:28am A lighter bit after all the serious stuff ;) Sitting in her seat at the Royal Melbourne Theater Grizel gazed around her. She had seen adverts for this concert and thought it sounded good. The Melbourne Symphony orchestra playing selected works including some of Lizst Debussy and Dvorjak. Grizel had loved Lizsts spirited Hungarian dances from when she had been learning although many of her teachers had not regarded then as being the same level as Mozat and Beethoven. Later the music of Debussy had moved her like little else had. Grizel sat forward in her seat and stared. After the intermission the piano had been brought to the front of the stage and the MC announced Debussys La danse de Puck. But what had caught Grizels eye was the pianist. She hunted though her program but the performers were not listed by name. Yet the profile, the way the arms moved, the way she held her head while playing. At the conclusion of the performance the pianist rose and bowed to the audience. Seeing her face on Grizel was certain. Grizel had to sit and curb her impatience for the performance to end. Luckily she had an aisle seat and as soon as the applause had died away she was on her feet moving to the exit. She scuttled through the foyer oblivious of the looks she was getting and headed for the office marked Theater Manager. Luckily the manager was in his office and answered her knock. Excuse me Sir Grizel began. Please can you tell me the name of the pianist? Its very important. She looks so much like someone I knew along time ago at the Conserviatorie in Florence. The pianist is Mrs sorry Signora di Maio Miss. Oh said Grizel deeply disappointed. The girl I knew was English. Oh well I was so sure it was Geraldine Challenor. But Mrs di Miao – her name is Geri. I have heard her husband call her that. He is the principal celloist. What is your name. Grizel Cochrane. Wait here Miss Cochrane. The manager disappeared through a door in the back of his office. Grizel took a seat and waited. In a couple of minutes the door flew open. Grizel Cochrane in the name of all that is good what are you doing here? Gerry Challenor it is you. I thought it was when I saw you but I couldn’t be sure. But you sound as though you have an American accent. Gerry was followed into the room by a tall striking man. Oh Grizel this is my husband Lodovico di Maio. Lodo this is Grizel Cochrane she and I were together at the Conserviatore. Mr di Maio smiled at her then in a strong American accent Charmed Miss Cochrane. How about you join us for a late supper and coffee and you and Geri can have a real gabfest. Grizel happily agreed and half an hour later found them seated in a quiet restaurant not far from the theater. Other members of the orchestra were also there and the owners were clearly familiar with them. Grizel spent the first hour answering all Geris questions on what she had been doing since the Chalet School had left Austria. Geri had known she was returning as a mistress but had lost track of her after the Anchluss. The next hour was spent listening to Geris life since Grizel had left Italy. After I finished in Florence I accepted an offer to study further at the Julliard School in New York. That is where I met Lodo. We use Signora and Signor for performances they reckon it sounds fancier but Lodo is American and I speak better Italian than he does. Anyway we have permanent positions with the New York Philharmonic and we have a house at Ithaca just outside of New York. Now that the children are older Sophie is 16 and Jonathan is 15 we sneak away quietly and do these little guest spots with other orchestras. It gives us a chance to pass on our experiences because wouldn’t you believe it neither of the kids have any music in them at all. Sophie likes to listen but that’s it and Jon could not keep a rhythm if you paid him. Jon wants to be a chemist and Sophie wants to be a tour hostess and work for one of the big cruise lines. Luckily she has my ability with languages so now she speaks English, Italian and German so that should be a benefit to her. So here we are in Melbourne for another 2 weeks, then we go to Brisbane up in Queensland for another 3 weeks. Then back home for the start of the summer season. Sounds like a nice way to see the world and still do what you enjoy commented Grizel. Still said Lodo the staff are looking at us and it is nearly midnight so we had better call it a night. It was lovely to catch up with you Geri and to meet you Lodo and I hope you have an enjoyable concert series. You to Grizel – have a safe journey back to New Zealand. We will see you outside to a taxi. Afterward sitting in their taxi Geri turned to Ludo and said you know meeting Grizel Cochrane tonight reminds me of that Disney song it’s a small world after all. After we finished at Florence and Grizel returned to Austria I can’t say I really thought much about her again except when the war broke out and I never expected to bump into her in Australia. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 12th, 2004, 5:40am What a wonderful idea - to reintroduce Geri! I honestly thought it was going to be Margia Stevens, but Geri works very well, too! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by PatMac on Jan 12th, 2004, 7:42am Ravenseyes, are you an author in RL? That was beautiful and then the break from emotion where she meets Geri was great. Looking forward to more when you can. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 12th, 2004, 7:51am Nope - I'm just a humble university division manager. This is my first attempt at a drabble and I'm just having fun. :D |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 12th, 2004, 8:02am Well, you're doing excellently! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 12th, 2004, 8:06am Scary actually - just did a word count almost 31 000 words. :o |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 12th, 2004, 8:07am *breaks into spontaneous applause* Fantastic work, Ravens! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Jennie on Jan 12th, 2004, 9:31am Raven, this is terrific. I can't believe it's your first attempt, it's very, very good. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 12th, 2004, 2:31pm Raven, that was a marvellous interlude, and it really relieved the tension! More please!!! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Esmeralda on Jan 12th, 2004, 4:25pm Thanks Raven, that was great, and unexpected too, I was also expecting it to be Margia. It's amazing hoe long stories grow isn't it? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 12th, 2004, 11:18pm LOL I'll echo that about the length of drabbles Esmeralda! Ravenseye - that last post was excellent - like everyone I expected Margia Stevens so seeing Gerry Challoner instead was a great surprise. Lucky for Grizel meeting an old friend. More please! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 12th, 2004, 11:23pm *joins in Lesley's chant* |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 12th, 2004, 11:31pm It was a beautiful clear winters morning in mid July. The sky was a brilliant blue with little white puffy clouds over it. Grizel was outside pegging the last of her washing to the clothesline when the back door of the main house flew open. Grizel Grizel Deira screamed. Grizel knew instantly what had happened. She dropped the washing basket and flew to Deira who was now clutching the door frame white and shaking. Deira clung to her and dragged her towards Moiras room. With her arm around Deira half supporting her they reached Moiras bedroom. Grizel got Deria to the chair by the bed and then reached out to Moira. Moira was lying peacefully on her pillow and Grizel placed her fingers on Moiras neck to check for a pulse although the coolness of Moiras skin already told her what she needed to know. Moira had quietly gone in her sleep to be with God. Deira was kneeling beside the bed clasping Moiras hand in hers. Tears were pouring down her cheeks but she smiled at Grizel. She is gone to God isn?t she Grizel. Grizel nodded with tears on her own cheeks. She looked at Moira and saw that the lines of pain and suffering were gone and Moira looked so peaceful finally. She knelt down beside Deira and held Deiras other hand. Grizel pray with me for Moira. Both of them bowed their heads and Deira started the Hail Mary. Part way through her voice broke so although Grizel was not a Catholic she knew the words and finished it for Deira. They rose from beside the bed and Grizel sat Deira in the chair. Do you want me to phone the doctor for you. Deira nodded ? thank you Grizel. I just want to stay here for a while. Grizel went downstairs and put the kettle on. Having done that she went and phoned the doctor. The doctor had known Moira since birth and he said he would come around a bit later and he would organize with the funeral directors. Moira had told Deira and Grizel that she wanted to be buried in the silk robe that Grizel had brought her back from Singapore and had also said what music she wanted at the service. Grizel wondered whether to call Tony but decided against it just yet. She made a mug of hot sweet tea for Deira and took it upstairs to her. Doesn?t she look peaceful Grizel. It is finally over and she is a rest. You know she is with her father and grandmother now. That was one thing she said to me that she would finally get to meet them in Heaven. Part of me wishes that I could go with her. I feel so tired Grizel. Grizel said nothing just sat beside Deira. When Deira had finished the tea she got a rug and a cushion and made Deira comfortable in the chair as she knew that when the funeral directors came they would take Moira away. Do you want me to call Tony and tell him. Yes no I don?t know Grizel. I don?t want to see anyone not now but he needs to know. Its Ok Deira I?ll take care of it. Grizel went back downstairs to the kitchen and made herself a strong cup of coffee. She then pulled the phone over to her and dialed Tony?s number. Tony its Grizel. Its happened. Last night during her sleep. Tony she looks so peaceful. No don?t come over. Deira says she wants to be alone with Moira at the moment and I am keeping an eye on her. The doctor is coming later and he will make the other arrangements and will probably give Deira something to help her sleep then. I will call you again tomorrow and let you know but Deira will probably want you to come over tomorrow afternoon. I know Tony it is for the best and although I am sad I am happy too. She looks so peaceful and calm just laying there and I am so glad she won?t have to suffer anymore. Grizel spent the rest of the morning quietly moving around the house. Deira was sitting with Moira and Grizel thought it best to leave her alone. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 12th, 2004, 11:40pm *sniffles* Thank you Raven, that was a difficult scene, and you've handled it beautifully! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by PatMac on Jan 12th, 2004, 11:44pm Ravens you must be exhausted after writing that. Beautifully handled and thank you. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 13th, 2004, 9:12am :'(Thank you :'( If I were ever in the same situation as Deira I would hope for a friend like Grizel. Ravenseye you handled that scene superbly. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 13th, 2004, 3:49pm Ravenseyes that was so beautiful, and very very moving. As I am reading in work I am trying not to cry, but it really did move me to tears. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 13th, 2004, 10:28pm *somewhat tearful sigh* Thank you, Ravens. That is lovely. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 13th, 2004, 10:38pm I’m so glad Grizel & Deira had made up before this scene. :'( |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 15th, 2004, 3:07am Grizel winced as Deiras hand crushed hers. The small white coffin had just been lowered into its final resting place and as it disappeared Deira shuddered and gripped her hand convulsively. It was an overcast day with a chill wind cutting through the cemetery. Moira was being buried next to her father and grandmother. Tony hovered protectively but discretely on Deiras other side. Grizel knew that Tony wanted to take care of Deira but both of them knew that Deria was not ready. Deira had clung to Grizel for the past four days. She had sunk into an apathetic depression and had left everything to Grizel to organize and Grizel was beginning to worry about her. Although Grizel had little experience with grief she honestly thought Deira should be a little more roused because Moiras death was neither unexpected nor to Grizels way of thinking tragic. Grizel certainly grieved over Moiras death but her grief was tempered with the knowledge that it was a wonderful release for Moira so she could not be overly sad. If Deira did not begin to rouse in the next couple of days Grizel had decided she would call the doctor in as Deira was clearly heading for an illness. Grizel led Deira back to the car and they set of back to Deiras house we the after funeral function was to be held. Grizel and Tony went to the kitchen to prepare the teas and coffees and discussed Deiras depression. Tony agreed that the doctor should be called if she did not rouse. He also arranged with Grizel to come and get her and Deira on Friday morning if it was fine and they would go for a drive to the coast to get Deira out of the house. After the people who had come back had left Grizel cleaned up the kitchen. She found Deira sitting in the lounge just staring at nothing. The doctor had left some sleeping pills with Grizel for Deira and Grizel knew that tonight was a good night to use one. She chivied Deira into the kitchen and made her eat some soup and toast for dinner and then bullied her upstairs into the bathroom. Once she had got Deria ready for bed she handed her the pill and a glass of water. Deira did not even ask what it was just took it and sank back on her pillow. Once she knew that Deira was asleep Grizel locked up and went to her flat. She sunk wearily down onto the sofa and decided that a light omlette in a few minutes would be her dinner. The emotions and arrangements of the last four days had exhausted her so she decided a hot bubble bath then bed was the order of the night. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 15th, 2004, 3:32am Good for Grizel, taking care of Deira! Lovely work, Ravens! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by crashbb on Jan 15th, 2004, 3:35am Wow, Raveneyes, that must have been draining to write. I'm really enjoying this story and seeing this side of Grizel. Keep up the good work. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by PatMac on Jan 15th, 2004, 7:25am Thank you Raveseyes. That was so moving and like all good stories, I want to know what happened next but this is not something you can dash off and get the quality so - when you can, please. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Rachael on Jan 15th, 2004, 9:17am Brilliant, Ravenseyes Thank you for including the passage with Gerry - that was definitely needed as a foil to the tragedy of Moira's death. You've conveyed the emotions of everyone superbly - congrats! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 15th, 2004, 10:21am Ravens, I hope you will be able to write more and post it for us very soon! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Jennie on Jan 15th, 2004, 3:39pm Wonderful, Ravenseyes, thank you. It must have been very difficult to write, but it was so sensitive. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 15th, 2004, 7:08pm Thank you Raven!! Looking forward to the next part, when you can!! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 15th, 2004, 8:51pm Thank you Ravens - like the others I can appreciate how difficult that was to write. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 16th, 2004, 12:46am Ravens that was lovely. So nice to see Grizel being soft and kind. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 18th, 2004, 3:01am February In the cabin of the cargo ship that was due to depart Auckland in one hour Grizel sat on the bed staring bleakly out the port hole. Her eyes saw the beautiful vista of Auckland harbor yet nothing lifted her. Indeed she felt the beauty mocked what she saw as the failure of her life in New Zealand. The past six months had nearly finished Grizel. Starting with Moiras death in July Grizel felt she had been on a downward slide. She had coped with Moiras death and Deiras grief and had just started to feel that life was getting going again when in late September Mr Atkins had phoned to advise that her stepmother had passed away and she would need to come back to England for at least 2 months to sort everything out. Grizel had been sitting trying to sort out what would be required when there had been a knock on her door and Deira and Tony had breezed in. Deira had been so full of her own news that she had not noticed Grizels pale face and the glint in the grey eyes. Grizel I had to tell you first – Tony and I are getting married at the end of October and we are going on a cruise through the Islands and up to Hawaii for our honeymoon. We won’t be back until Christmas. Grizel had extended her congratulations somewhat mechanically. Tony had actually been the one to see that something was wrong and had asked Grizel. My solicitor in England has just phoned. My stepmother died two days ago and I have to go to England for about 2 months to deal with all the legal matters. My fathers will is well complicated puts in mildly. So something will have to be done about the shop. Deira broke in here we will sell it. Tony does not want me to work once we are married and if you are going back to England it will have to be sold. We will speak to the lawyers this week. With that she took Tonys arm and tripped out the door again leaving Grizel sitting half shocked. She felt rather like someone had just punched her in the middle. Deira was true to her word and the following week found them in the lawyers office. Grizel had indicted that she did not want to sell the store but Deira was adamant and the lawyers advised Grizel against buying her out and then installing temporary staff while she was back in England as there was no indication of how long she would have to spend in England. Deira and Tony duly got married in a quiet ceremony at the Auckland Town Hall and departed on their honeymoon leaving Grizel to deal with all the legal matters to do with selling the store as well has running the store until the new owners took over in January. Selling the store hurt as Grizel was proud of what had been created and she felt desolate as she signed the final papers. The sale price was very good and she and Deira had made a lot of money but it was not really the money that mattered. Grizel also found herself wondering what she would do when all the legal matters pertaining to her fathers estate was settled. She knew she would not teach again and she was financially well off but the thought of doing nothing did not sit well with her. By the time Christmas came Grizel was mentally and physically exhausted as well as being pretty bitter and cynical. She did not grudge Deira her happiness in marrying Tony but she did grudge her her happiness at the expense of Grizels. She did not have to do it like this Grizel thought bitterly. She did not have to ruin my life after everything I did for her. Grizels thoughts these days were very dark. The only bright spot she was looking forward to was seeing Jo Maynard in April although even that was tempered by a niggling thought that Joey was up to something. Her last letter had said nothing but it was almost what it did not say that had Grizel thinking. Grizel felt the engines of the ship power up and the klaxon boomed out. The gap between the ship and the quay widened and they moved out into the shipping lanes and began to power out of the main harbor. Grizel had mentioned nothing of what was happening in her infrequent letters to Lisa as she did not want Lisa to know what was happening. But last night she had written a long letter to Lisa, thanking her for her friendship over these years and enclosing letters for Nicole and Ryan. By the time Lisa got it Grizel knew she would be on the high seas. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by ravenseyes on Jan 18th, 2004, 3:02am Grizel never knew but Lisas reaction when she got the letter and read it and realized how bad things had been for Grizel was to fly up to Auckland and confront Deira over exactly how selfish and inconsiderate she had been. Lisa did not mince any words and she had reduced Deria to tears by the time she had finished. Tony arrived home from work at the end of Lisas diatribe and was not spared either. Lisa had thrown Grizels letter on the table for them to read and both were horrified at how thoughtless their actions had been and how badly depressed Grizel truly was. Her second action was to get the address of the Chalet School on Gornetz Platz from Deira. Lisa had then written to Joey Maynard and expressed her worry about Grizel. Lisa asked Jo to keep her letter confidential which Jo respected. No one ever knew Lisa had written. However Lisas letter combined with the last letter that Jo had received from Grizel made Jo determined that Grizel would not depart from Fruedesheim until she was well in both mind and body. How she was going to accomplish this was beyond her at the moment but she knew she had to do something. As the shoreline of Auckland fell away Grizel felt herself control fail as well. She fell across her bed as great sobs ripped through her body until she finally fell asleep wishing she did not have to wake up. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Vikki on Jan 18th, 2004, 3:10am Poor Grizel!! I'm glad Lisa told Deira and Tony off!!!! I hope Lisa and Grizel got to meet again in later years!! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 18th, 2004, 3:19am Poor, poor Grizel. I hope things look up for her soon. Deira & Tony really deserved a proper reaming out. How could Deira, especially, be so blind? Any hope of a reconciliation, or more of Lisa? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by PatMac on Jan 18th, 2004, 9:23am Good for Lisa. Poor Grizel! thanks, more please (like the Juliet thread, at least we know this has a happy ending). |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Lesley on Jan 18th, 2004, 9:40am Thank you Raven - so sad that Lisa only found out after Grizel had left - but I'm glad she confronted Deira and Tony about their behaviour. Funny - I also wish in a way that Lisa had been able to stop Grizel - but we know what happens next - and she does eventually find true happiness - even if it is with another doctor dammit! Please let her meet up with Lisa again, and perhaps at least a letter from Deira - to heal that rift? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Rachael on Jan 18th, 2004, 9:40pm *Echoes concerns for Grizel* I'm so glad that we know Grizel will meet Neil but wish Deira hadn't been so selfish ......................... and Tony ........ but it's all working, so "Bravo!" Ravenseyes .... |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 19th, 2004, 1:04am Well done Ravenseyes. Glad Deira and Tony got their comeuppance. They deserved it. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 19th, 2004, 3:29am Good for Lisa! I do like that character! And how awful of Deira - but then she was never the nicest person! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:10am I don’t think I’ve read whichever CS book has Deira & Moira, but it did seem that, in the drabble, Deira started out nicer than Grizel. What it looks like to me is that the Tony/Deira relationship has become one of those blind-to-everyone-else romances that pop up in RL. Typically, they seem less likely to lead to lasting marriages than the relationships in which the couple (singly & together) retain old friendships and nourish new ones. (No experience with either type myself, mind you; just my own not necessarily accurate observations.) |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:18am It's in "Head Girl", Kathy. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:21am Oops - I have that one, at least in paperback. Time for a re-read I guess. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:31am Yes, it's definitely in the PB version! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by crashbb on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:35am I never understood that scence. Grizel ends the arguement by saying that obviously Madame and Mademoiselle didn't know that Dieria didn't want hobbies when they signed offf on the duties list. Well and good BUT, earlier in the meeting, Lisa says she'll do break duty and Grizel says that she doesn't think one person should do it alone. Lisa pervails and does take it on her self. But, obviously the duties couldn't have been all decided earlier since Grizel didn't have Lisa on as solo break person. If this could be changed, why couldn't the hobby one be changed? EBDism, or was Grizel not being entirely honest? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:39am Perhaps Grizel had been told that by the Head, and advised to ask whether a second Duty Pree would be needed. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:40am Starting to sound familiar.... |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:45am Deira also burned Grizel's music book, in which Grizel had kept the last letter from Grizel's grandmother. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:49am Very, very familiar. Somehow I didn't connect the two Deiras. Does she reform after hitting Grizel with an improperly constructed snowball, or was this someone else? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by crashbb on Jan 19th, 2004, 4:54am Ding! Ding! Ding! We have a winner! Deira throws a snowball with rock in it (or maybe just a rock) at Grizel and it hit her in the temple as she lay, still, gray and to all appearances dead! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Cathy on Jan 19th, 2004, 5:57am Poor Grizel. I love the way you've written this, it's totally believable. It really explains Grizel's mental and emotional exhaustion when she arrived at Freudesheim. Please may we have some more? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 19th, 2004, 8:42am Feeling pretty silly at this point, remembering that Rachael’s drabble that preceded this one clearly identified New Zealand Deira with Deira from Head Girl. :-[ Still can’t place the New Zealand episode in EBD, though. From comments here, I’m reasonably sure EBD did have Grizel joining Deira in NZ, Deira’s daughter dying, Deira marrying Tony, and Grizel returning to Freudesheim/ marrying a doctor. Was this a major book plotline, or snippets here and there? |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 19th, 2004, 8:45am It's a major part of "Reunion" and Grizel's return is the reason for the reunion! |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Kathy_S on Jan 19th, 2004, 8:58am Thanks, KB. I’ll have to prioritize that one. |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by KB on Jan 19th, 2004, 9:22am You can find a transcript on the site here: http://humanities.psydeshow.org/be2/index.html |
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Title: Re: Grizel in NZ (again) Post by Susan on Jan 19th, 2004, 3:54pm Grizel goes off to New Zealand at the end of Carola after setting Len on Fire. She has had a letter from Deira inviting her to join the business. |
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