The Mansion

[darkwarrioress57]

The evening was quiet. he was tired. Yet..... she was mentally searching for something and she wasn't sure what. Looking around at the great room she thought, ]I] If only these walls could talk.[/I] Oh, the stories they could tell. These days there was nothing to see, let alone report.

It was quiet.

So very quiet.

 

[darkwarrioress57]

Looking out of the window from her study, she idly wondered if spring was finally going to pop. Glancing at her calendar, she sighed. It was only mid March. More than likely not. There was still snow piled high though it was slowly melting. In places, if she squinted hard enough, she could see her yard where grass usually grew.

Glancing back at her desk, she was pleased with her progress and with a smile, signed off for the moment.

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*Wanders to the front door from the grounds. A crooked smile rest on my face, as I study a map. I knock on the door, patiently waiting leaned against the entryway for an answer.

 

[darkwarrioress57]

*Wanders to the front door from the grounds. A crooked smile rest on my face, as I study a map. I knock on the door, patiently waiting leaned against the entryway for an answer.

Bare feet pad silently from the study to the front door. A quick look through the peephole and the a smile quirks at the corner of my lips as I open the door to you.

"Hello you. I was wondering when you'd come to visit. Come in, come in. Mi casa, es su casa."

Standing back from the open door, I wait for you to enter. The house is huge. The Great Room is to the left. The staircase is directly ahead.

"Would you like a tour or would you just like to hang out in the Great Room? I've had quite a busy day and I'm happy to see you."

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*I give you a soft kiss on the cheek, but let it linger close to your lip before pulling away*

"I think I would like a tour, is this guided or shall I wander without aim? Who know's what mischief I may find?"

*A small scratching sound can be heard coming from my pack*

 

[darkwarrioress57]

*I give you a soft kiss on the cheek, but let it linger close to your lip before pulling away*

"I think I would like a tour, is this guided or shall I wander without aim? Who know's what mischief I may find?"

*A small scratching sound can be heard coming from my pack*

*glances at his pack and smiles.*

"Is that who I think it is? And it would be my pleasure to show you around."

*closing the door behind you and moves to your side*

You can let him out you know.

*the smile gets wider if that's at all possible*

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*I smile, shifting the pack around*

I mean I just got here and I don't even know where the bedroom is yet. But if you insist I can let "him" out.

*Smiling I unzip the pack Shifu the red panda scurrying out and jumping into your arms, I lean in giving you a light kiss behind the ear, whispering*

He didn't want to stay at the Inn, we missed you

Now, about this tour? I believe we were talking about the bedrooms?

 

[darkwarrioress57]

I rolled my eyes at him, but smiled while I did it and waited impatiently for Shifu to appear. I couldn't help but laugh with delight as the red panda came scurrying out and I caught him in my arms, burying my face in his fur for a moment then looked at both of them.

"I missed you both as well. The tour. Well come along."

We walked down the hall and made a right turn and another sharp right into a bedroom.

"This is the master bedroom. The guest bedrooms are upstairs. One of the rooms is reserved for Light_Ice. He hasn't been around in some time, but he always has a room here. "

The master bedroom was large with twin sliding doors that looked out into the backyard. The huge four poster bed dominated the room. The room was painted in soft hue of amethyst. The accents were blue and a soft green. Dark, deep colors. Restful yes, but colors that could take the occupants anywhere. I turned as I spoke and pointed in the opposite direction.

"The kitchen is down that other hall. I have some treats there I think Shifu would like."

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*Examine the walls and wondering of the stories locked withing their never broken silence, as we walk I smile, the Red Panda obviously happy to be in your arms. I whistle as we step into the bedroom*

Hmm, I like the decor, I see we share a fondness for poster beds. I even like the sheets, are they comfortable?

*I smile, and relax a bit, getting more comfortable with my surroundings.*

I saw the guest register, I hope you won't mind that I took a trip back through the years. I can see he was special to you and this place. Don't worry about me and Shifu, I'm sure I can find somewhere to relax for my stay. I grew up making the most of wherever I was. I'm quite proud of my ability to sleep almost anywhere. Can I suggest not falling asleep under a running Jet however. You get the worst headache after people stop yelling at you.

*taking of my pack I sit it by the door*

Shall I find the kitchen myself or...?

 

[darkwarrioress57]

*laughing softly.*

I do like your humor. *a momentary pause*

Yes he is special. He protected me when I needed protecting even when I protested. He didn't listen. When I fell apart... *another pause and a deep breath* he picked me up and others drew around me for protection. We are good friends, even today. Even in the world that lies outside of this one. We speak now and then. Well, that was another time, a time gone now.

Come, this way. We'll head to the kitchen.

*cradling Shifu, I move around him to get back to the door. I don't mind what you've read of the past in this place. *smiling as I meet his eyes*

If these walls could actually talk.

* I laugh softly as we walk down another hall, a short trip from my bedroom*

This is my pride and joy.

* I step further into the neat kitchen. The light flickers on as I flip a switch.*

I love modern kitchen equipment. I can't help myself. Such things fascinate me. Don't get me wrong, I use everything you see and some you don't. I use to love to cook.

* I turn to hand Shifu back to you and then reach for an apple. Opening a drawer, I find my apple slicer and set it at the middle of the apple, pushing down then watching as the apple easily splits into pieces. I work a piece loose for Shifu and come back to your side, offering the panda the apple slice. My eyes go from the panda to your face. I wonder what you're thinking. My eyes fall away and come to rest on the huge kitchen island in front of us. I'm glad that island can't talk because it could tell some pretty steamy stories. I can feel my cheeks warm. I cough in my throat softly*

The dining room is through there.

* I point to the other side of the kitchen to a doorway there. Luckily, nothing has ever happened in that room, thank goodness.*

The maids have left for the evening. Can I offer you a drink of something? I have water and several juices not to mention a few types of pop. I can offer you something stronger if you like.

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*I smile as I follow you, watching as Shifu snuggles with you*

Well, then he has my thanks. Sometimes we need protection even when we don’t want it. It’s the….honor.. of those that would refuse your protest to provide it. I’m glad he isn’t gone from your life entirely. Sometimes being able to see life, even from afar, is important.

*My eyes light up as we walk into the kitchen and Shifu crawls back into my arms and greedily accepts the apple slice*

Well, perhaps I can learn the counters language and learn a few stories.

*I walk to it, my hand sliding along its surface, seemingly trying to decipher its stories*

I enjoy a well-supplied kitchen. Eating is a favorite pastime of mine and it seems the more gadgets you acquire the more interesting the dish you can create, in a shorter amount of time. I one day hope to have a Viking stove-top installed in the house so I can enjoy my flat iron griddle goodness again. I hope you can enjoy cooking as much as you want soon.

*I smile, continuing my path around the island, patting it with a hint of innuendo at the edge*

This room *leaning my head in* Hmm, could I use this space to hang my hammock? It’s rather close to the kitchen, and I mean Shifu would enjoy that.
But, I would enjoy a drink. How about a bit of crown royal with a dash of coke?

 

[darkwarrioress57]

You want to hang your hammock in my dining room?

*I give a little shake of my head as if to clear it and blink.*

Of course. Wherever you wish. That's fine.

* I watch Shifu greedily eating his apple*

A bot of royal crown with a dash of coke.

*I incline my head slightly and move to the refrigerator, opening the door and draw out a can of coke.*

If you would like to follow me back to the Great Room, I keep the royal crown and other liquor there.

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

You want to hang your hammock in my dining room?

*I give a little shake of my head as if to clear it and blink.*

Of course. Wherever you wish. That's fine.

* I watch Shifu greedily eating his apple*

A bot of royal crown with a dash of coke.

*I incline my head slightly and move to the refrigerator, opening the door and draw out a can of coke.*

If you would like to follow me back to the Great Room, I keep the royal crown and other liquor there.

Oh, the hammock fits almost anywhere, and the room has good light. But we will see the rest of the manse before making a decision. Lead the way, the views are quite enjoyable.

*I pet Shift, playfully tugging his apple, getting him to ruffle his red fur a bit in protest.*

You little rascal, you act like you never eat. I'm not even sure your supposed to eat apples, but then again I've seen you eat any number of things you should never have. Speaking of that, Shifu, you better start earning some money, you ate my eggs last night before I could even cook them.

*I smile at you, a happy exasperated look in my eyes.*

He really is a hand full. It's a wonder I take him anywhere. But when I found him he was soo bored I simply had to take him with me.

 

[darkwarrioress57]

I reach over to pet Shifu.

“I don’t blame you. I can’t resist those eyes of his and I swear, he knows he has me wrapped around his paw. Let’s head back to the Great Room that’s where I keep my liquor.”

I lead the way back to the Great Room. It’s a spacious room with high ceilings. In front of the fireplace, which is currently burning with soft pops here and there as the flames hungrily eat away at the logs. There is a soft rug between the fireplace and the couch. The couch is set facing the fireplace. It’s flanked by two end tables on each side. Adjacent to the couch is a large comfy chair. On a wall to the left of the couch, two ceiling to floor glass doors are set. They look out into the backyard. On the wall to the right of the couch and slightly behind it, is where the liquor cabinet sits. I gesture to the couch.

“Please. Have a seat. Get comfortable. Make yourself at home. You can let Shifu wander as he will. My dogs are at the back of the house. Don’t worry, they may be loud but they’re friendly and curious.”

Opening the cabinet, I search for the Royal Crown. Pushing aside a bottle here, a bottle there. I locate it in no time. Taking a glass, I open the coke, pouring some into it. I then pour a bit of the requested liquor into the coke before gliding back over to you and offer you the glass.

“Your drink, Sir.”

I said it with humor. The whole room had been designed with comfort in mind. It made one feel like putting their feet up and could. That was just her way, comfort over design.

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*smiling looking into the comfortable space, taking in the high ceilings and relaxing views of the yard,I smile as a flash of red as if by cue Shifu disappears into the mansion to explore. Taking the glass, my fingers brushing yours. I glint of excitement in my eyes as I choose a seat nearby.*

This is a great room, it feels set up for company and the occasional snuggles. You know giving Shifu this much space might get him into mischief, I'm afraid he may have picked up my devious curiosity along the way. You may find that he pops up when least expected, I have a feeling he will learn to surf the nether as well as either of us soon. I suspect he will enjoy splitting his time between there, here, and elsewhere.

*I sip my drink, the ice clinking against the glass, a crooked smile on my face*

It's a simple drink, not the most expensive but it's wonderful to sip. It was my first drink. A man that would become a friend and I took over a cooler at a river party and managed to drink ourselves into a friendship. *chuckles remembering* So my dear Cait, where would you suggest I hang my hammock or is there a more comfortable bed to be had?

 

[darkwarrioress57]

“Thank you. I designed it with friends, company and snuggles in mind.”

I smiled and sipped my wine, looking over my glass rim at you.

“Shifu can get into mischief all he likes while he’s here and if your devious curiosity has rubbed off on him, so much the better. So long as he doesn’t pop while I’m in the bath or getting out of the shower, I won’t mind him popping in unexpectedly.

“Drank yourselves into a friendship, hm? I can just imagine that.”

I tip my head to one side as I study you.

“Your hammock? Well, the dining room is fine, Kama. I also have some very comfy beds upstairs,“ my smile grew mischievous because I know how much he loves them, “ all of them sport four poster beds.”

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

* I wink at you, as I sip the drink*

I can't promise anything, he has a mind all his own and totally doesn't share stories of the various places he explores with me later

*I stretch out, flexing my knee popping from an old injury.*

Hmmm, well perhaps I'll find a room upstairs with a good window view. Have the hammock for relaxing moments in the sun.

*A crash comes from upstairs...followed by a red panda scurrying back down the stairs and running under your chair, his tail fluffed and shaking from under the chair.*

Ummmm, I'll take that room....

 

[darkwarrioress57]

I'm not sure what has startled me more, Shifu or the crash from upstairs. Getting off the couch, I get down on my hands and knees, peering under the couch and try to gently convince the small panda to come out. It takes a little convincing and another Apple slice from my pocket, but I get the little fellow to come into my arms. Getting to my feet again, I turn and look at you, arching a brow.

"Shall we go upstairs now and investigate?"

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*not being very gentlemanly and enjoying the view as you tease Shifu from his hiding spot*

Lets, hopefully he didn't get into too much trouble. By all means, show me the way. *Offering the crook of my arm*

 

[darkwarrioress57]

My chin raises a level, my eyes narrow, but there is a glint of mischief in my eyes.

“Hey! Were you looking at my ass?”

At that moment, Shifu had finished his apple slice and when not another was forthcoming, the lad scampered up my chest and settled on my shoulder, his tail curled around my neck. With one hand I reach up to scratch his jaw, then other slipped into the crook of your arm. I give a little tug.

“Come. We shall check out the rooms upstairs and if any of them suit your taste.”

The climb is not a long one. Stairs are not my friend. Especially these days. Pausing at the top of them you can see that the short end of the hall is to your right. There is a door at the end of it, but a small sign hangs from it and says “Occupied”.

“That room belongs to Light_Ice. He has since moved out and built his own place on the property. A barn with a loft. It can be seen from one of the other rooms but I have always maintained this one for him just in case. To your left you will see the rest of the hallway. There are several doors along here but we can continue I think you might like this room.”

There was only one other door marked occupied in the hallway. There were two more doors and one open one. The open one is a bathroom. The one I lead you to is at the other end of the hallway. I twist the knob and give the door a push. Inside, what dominates the room is a huge four poster bed. Dark cherry wood stains the thick frame, its color pretty much matches my hair color. Looking out the large window, one has a view of the backyard. To one side of the yard is a pool, fenced in, of course. To look left you can see the woods between my house and Ice’s Barn loft. The backyard has a rose garden and also sports a labyrinth. It’s hedges are tall but from this room only, you can see inside it.

The room itself sports soft, meditative tones. Relaxing. There are two doors inside it. One leads to a personal bathroom and the other to a large walk in closet. I let him look over the room and stand quietly with Shifu on my shoulder just before the little scamp runs down and leaps from my body and scurries under the bed.

“I’m guessing this is the room the little stinker was in.”

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*I smirk at your comment, answering without breaking the tease with words. Walking with you up the stairs, I smile as you talk to me about the reserved room, nodding along with the conversation. Entering into the room, I look around, my hand brushing the furniture and bed coverings. Walking to the window I lean against the seal, my eyes focused on the surroundings, tracing the pathways through the labyrinth.*

"I believe so, the little beast. I wonder what he got into? This is a beautiful room, thank you for your hospitality, I think I might take this one. I enjoy the view. It suits me, knowledge of the labyrinth, seeing it from an angle that most can not. I think you captured a bit of me in this choice."

*Smiling, I turn back to you, looking around the room for the third member of our trio before looking you in the eyes*

"Your home is lovely. I think I'm going to enjoy the stay here, warm rooms, soft beds, succulent drinks, and a hostess that embodies them all.

 

[darkwarrioress57]

*I smirk at your comment, answering without breaking the tease with words. Walking with you up the stairs, I smile as you talk to me about the reserved room, nodding along with the conversation. Entering into the room, I look around, my hand brushing the furniture and bed coverings. Walking to the window I lean against the seal, my eyes focused on the surroundings, tracing the pathways through the labyrinth.*

"I believe so, the little beast. I wonder what he got into? This is a beautiful room, thank you for your hospitality, I think I might take this one. I enjoy the view. It suits me, knowledge of the labyrinth, seeing it from an angle that most can not. I think you captured a bit of me in this choice."

*Smiling, I turn back to you, looking around the room for the third member of our trio before looking you in the eyes*

"Your home is lovely. I think I'm going to enjoy the stay here, warm rooms, soft beds, succulent drinks, and a hostess that embodies them all.

His words wash over me warmly. I am not one for compliments. They have always unnerved me until I learned to say simply two words. Then I learned that more would come. Sometimes.

"Thank you. I appreciate your words."

Walking over to join him at the window, very much aware that behind us, two little round eyes are peeking out from under the bed at us.

"There's no telling what Shifu found to get into besides, it's hard to tell if it was in this world or another."

I didn't expound on that. I looked out the window.

"You will find the labyrinth to be interesting..."

I ponder if I should tell you some of its secrets or let you find out for yourself. With a slight smile, I decide to simply let you enjoy the surprises as they occur.

"This house is full of secrets and I have only just begun to unravel them myself. Please make yourself at home. I'll be downstairs, preparing some supper for us. Is there anything you don't care for, food wise?

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

*Leaning closer to you, my hand brushing yours*

I'll remember that, I love unraveling secrets. I have a feeling I've only scratched the surface of a few. I wonder what hidden pleasures the depths still contain.

*I lean back, giving you a moment of space, smiling as Shifu runs back to your leg climbing onto you.*

I like this room, I'll set my hammock up soon, would you like to help? It's always good to test it before you get too strenuous with the activity. Wouldn't want to have it suddenly fall now would we?

 

[darkwarrioress57]

*Leaning closer to you, my hand brushing yours*

I'll remember that, I love unraveling secrets. I have a feeling I've only scratched the surface of a few. I wonder what hidden pleasures the depths still contain.

*I lean back, giving you a moment of space, smiling as Shifu runs back to your leg climbing onto you.*

I like this room, I'll set my hammock up soon, would you like to help? It's always good to test it before you get too strenuous with the activity. Wouldn't want to have it suddenly fall now would we?

Even as I welcome Shifu and as he climbs up to my shoulder, settling in, I reach up to scratch under his chin...…

"What did you find earlier, mischievous one? Are locating some of the secrets to the mansion, hm?"

I smile at Kama.

"Thank you kind Sir, but I think I'll leave you to it. The ether calls yet again.... I'll see you later.... "

With a slight inclination of my head and warm smile, I let Shifu scamper back down before simply dissolving into a mist and gone yet again. I had already told him to make himself at home. So, I hope he does.

 

[KamaKamaSutra]

Smiling I watch as you vanish into the void.

"Safe travels.....Shifu, lets get comfortable. You little monster, go fetch my back pack"

The red panda runs off, retracing our path, I can hear his growls of frustration as he drags the pack back to me. Smiling I reach down taking his burden and reaching inside pull a shoot of green bamboo out, he collects his reward happily and scampers off. Unfolding the pack, a bit of the void falls out, the magic fading into the air after a moment. The fabric of the pack undone, it reveals my hammock, it's ropes covered inside the dark fabric that is actually a waterproof blanket. Finding two suitable anchor points I secure my hammock without damaging the walls. This way I can lay in the sun of the window and observe the changing seasons from my vantage point. Removing my shirt and pants, slipping into a simple pair of white cotton shorts with burlap strings and a blue cotton shirt I fall into the hammock one leg hanging lazily off the side. I look at the bed, its planes offering ample fuel to my imagination. One words slips my lips as I drift off in the warmth of the sun, Shifu finding his way back onto my chest, his bamboo happily being chewed as he relaxes.

"Soon"