The Story of Manse Malevolent for ErnesaT's Contest:

WrathofCath

Many years ago the town of Midnight Hollow was founded by a group of misfits. Among these was a man who called himself Lucius Malevolent.

He chose to build his new home atop the highest and most secluded hill that the town had to offer. And what a house it was. It loomed above a property surrounded by a tall wrought iron fence. Imposing staircases lead to entrances, guarded by gargoyles. Atop the highest roof he installed the largest lightening rod that had ever been seen.



Upon entering the property, if one dared, they would be greeted by an eerie claw shaped pond. Townsfolk had stolen rare glances of the owners fishing in this monstrosity. What kind of fish could live in something so evil looking?



Just beyond the pond was a winding, overgrown path leading to the family graveyard. It was enclosed by yet another high wrought iron fence.



Generations have passed yet Manse Malevolent has not changed. The latest heir to the home is also called Lucius, named for his great, great grandfather.

Legends claim that the founder of the home was a mad scientist, driven from his original home by the townspeople. Rumors stated that he conducted experiments on the dead, trying to bring them back to life.

One legend declared him to have been called Dr. Frankenstein in his life before Midnight Hollow. This legend claimed that when he came here, he took on his new name and continued with his strange and dark work.

Young Lucius became orphaned when he had barely reached adulthood. His parents were away on some secret journey when they met with their demise. The night on which they were traveling home was thick with fog. Thinking he saw something up ahead in the road, their driver swerved suddenly. In the dense mist he never noticed the precipice into which they plunged to their untimely death.

Lucius now lives in his family home alone. He continues to follow in the footsteps of all the great men in his family, as a scientist. Just what he does, is unbeknownst to anyone. He has nothing to do with the townsfolk, as it has always been this way in his family.

Every so often, he leaves town for some time. No one is sure why. It was on one of these journeys, that he happened upon a lovely creature called Elsbeth. He was riding through her town when he happened to spy her working in her garden.



He just had to stop and find out who this delicate creature was. He didn't understand what had come over him! Never before had he spoken to anyone outside his own family.

She was startled by his appearance.

Not knowing what else to do, he asked for some water.

Being the kind-hearted creature she was, she invited him in for something to eat and the chance to rest for a while.



Lucius discovered that she too had been orphaned and was alone, save her cat Chants. He learned that she was a witch, but a good witch. She believed in healing. She loved to garden and to cook and she was quite shy. Her home was warm and comfortable.

They found that they enjoyed each others company and Lucius stayed on as her house guest. Elsbeth enjoyed having someone to talk with. Because of her shy nature, she seldom spoke with anyone but Chance.

Lucius knew that he must return home soon and get back to his work but he couldn't bear the thought of leaving his precious Elsbeth behind. He surprised himself again when he made the decision to ask for her hand in marriage.



Much to his delight, she said "Yes". As neither of them had any family or friends, they had a private ceremony.



Lucius wanted to celebrate their new life together traveling for a bit. This would also allow for him to arrange to have his family home completely renovated for his beautiful new bride.

Lucius wanted Elsbeth to live in the surroundings she would love and be happy in.

Because Elsbeth loved to cook, the workers were instructed to completely update the kitchen with all the latest and best appliances.

He instructed that each and every room should be completely done to her liking, keeping only the family heirlooms she chose.

When all the work was completed, the newlyweds arrived home. At first Elsbeth was unsure of this dark and dreary world. Climbing those steep and eerie stairs, she really began to have her doubts.



Lucius took her hand and smiled to himself as they stood on the porch, for he knew she would fall in love with her new home as soon as she went through the front door. And of course he was right.



They spend most of their time together reading, playing the piano or just talking.



And on those occasions when Lucius feels he must work, they head up to the attic. He, to his hidden laboratory and she, to her perfectly designed witch's room, just outside his lab.







Someday in the not too distant future, they hope to keep the Malevolent family growing.

The End!

anettesb

very nice... the inside is so warm and welcoming... the contrast is interesting.... would love to here the rest of their story

DolphineQ

What a sweet story, Wrath!
And Elsbeth is adorable, no wonder he HAD to talk to her .
I wish you good luck in the contest too and thanks for your sweet comments!

Idontrcall

Cath, the interior shots are so wonderful! Love the tale of Lucius and Elsbeth (and their little kitty) .

It is a beautiful love story -- and perfect for Midnight Hollow because it shows acceptance and understanding of those different from yourself . Super job!!!

WrathofCath

Hi Anette! Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment! :-)

Hi Dolphine! Thank you so much for your lovely comments and for stopping in for a look! Midnight Weddings is perfect for MH! I ran out of time to make a community lot. Good luck in the contest! :P

Hi IDR! We must have been posting at the exact same time, lol! I agree with Lyndz, nice job creating your characters from the portraits! Fabulous work with them and very clever! Good luck in the contest and Thank you for your wonderful comments! Hugs!:D

TheFairyBug

Aww, what an adorable couple! I wish them lots of happiness! Good luck in Ernesa's contest, dear! I've seen four threads about it this morning, so I know you'll have some very fun competition!