Ghostly happenings

[Artegal]

Has anyone seen any unusual shadowy forms haunting the first floor? It has been sighted coming from the staircase north of the Outer Courtyard and traveling through the Great Passage. Some have felt its presence even in the Refectory.

If anyone has information about who it may be or what it wishes of us, please let me know.

[Artegal]

My thanks to all who have been so forthcoming about their experiences with the shadow that haunts us.

I have now, like many of you, seen the shadow on several separate occasions. Only in a few cases, have I know the it to try and touch one of the living. Know that if you see this shadow, take pains not to fall within its icy grasp, as those who have felt it now claim to be cursed.

There may be more than one shadow. At least one person has given account of both a female and a male apparition, and even of a child. The spirits move very quickly through the castle, but are believed to have first appeared near the Solitary Passage.

Again, if any have information regarding the appearance of these creatures, especially whether they have spoken or intimated any purpose through deed or aspect, please inform the Watch. I also continue to investigate the matter informally and would be pleased to speak with you.

Ser Artegal

[Artegal]

Our castle was invaded once again last night by the shadow. Our able Watchman Philo attempted to grab the elusive spectre, but it was insubtantial and quickly slipped away. Philo now suffers from the ill effects of the thing's fey touch... please join me in wishing him a speedy recovery.

In happier news, I had the good fortune of seeing Sera Elayne, and she appears to be wholly recovered from her encounter with the shadow.

Sera Katherine, I believe, has forwarded the theory that instead of multiple shadows, we may be dealing with a single creature that can change shapes at will.

Walk carefully, gentles.

[Retribution_AtWork]

Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed that although these shadows may be harmful, they have not harmed us, unless we have harmed them. My personal guess is that if we act nicely, and respectfully of these shades, they will do the same to us.

Retribution

[Artegal]

Ser Retribution makes an excellent observation. My entire approach here has been to determine what these shadows are and what, if anything, they wish of the living. The fact of the matter is that the creatures appear in most cases to move swiftly through the castle, as if in search of something, and that they react with the living in such a way as to suggest distaste or fear. The effect of their touch may be wholly coincidental and a measure not unlike that which plants or animals develop to protect themselves from unwanted predators.

[LadySilverwolf]

My manner is quiet, but in this particular instance, I feel I should voice my opinion, and hope that all will see this with their heart as I see it within my own.

Tis belief that allows this thing, or these spirits to walk amoung the shadows of this cold place. I have walked the halls both night and day, searching for this creature that many believe has come to 'haunt' the living. Yet, I have never seen it.

Why? Is it because I do not believe in it? Does this thing know that I do not believe in it?

I tell you know, those who live within the outer bailey. If you believe in this thing, you surly give it power over you. If you choose not to believe with your heart, tis my belief that it will bother you no more, for the power it had over you is no more.

Believe what you will, but I choose to not believe, and I also think this is why I do not see this strange apparation so many others have.

Sera Faer.

[Atama]

Once again the differences between myself and the other denizens of the castle must be pointed out to me. Why is it that I know not even my own name?

I have had a unique experience with this ghost, or at least a ghost. This happened last night, while on the gallery above the west courtyard. An apparition appeared to me, that of a lovely woman. She wore a white velvet gown, and had wavy silver-white hair styled in a widow's peak. She had light brows upon her smooth brow, which framed her wide silver-blue eyes. Her countenance was graced by a pert nose, and hollow cheeks contained a heart-shaped mouth with sensuous lips.

Although she shimmered into appearance out of nowhere, I took it no notice, and greeted her formally. She smiled at me (which is totally unlike any other reported encounters) and approached me. She then looked into my eyes, and tilted her head and frowned at me. At this point she touched her lips, touched me and then gave me a kiss on the lips.

At that point, Watchman Philo appeared. Just as he appeared, she faded away, but not before he glimpsed her. When he asked what was wrong, I could not answer. My lips were sealed by a magical curse!

The good Watchman then tried to help me find a cure to my malady. It was eventually discovered that it could not be cured, but could be transferred to another person through another kiss. It was thus removed from me, but at the cost of others, I am afraid to say.

I do not know if this is malicious mischeif on the part of these spectral entities, or a side-effect of their semi-corporeal state. I am currently attempting to find a cure for this curse, which still afflicts someone. I warn everyone to be wary of spirits, for although not outright hostile (in my case overly friendly) they can be dangerous.

Signed on this day,
Zero

[Uwaine]

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