Les songes de van Goosens | Part one

Les songes de van Goosens, Part One

 

Through the thick fog that stretched out like a spider's web between the centenary trees, a black carriage drawn by four powerful horses advanced. The regular rumble of their hooves pounding the stony ground seemed to be the melody of a dark symphony. On the driver's seat sat Lucius, a butler with enigmatic airs in his usual black and gray tailcoat that floated like an ethereal shadow in the humid air of the forest. His steel-blue eyes scanned the darkness with an almost supernatural vigilance, as if he could read the secrets that the trees whispered softly.

 

Inside the carriage emblazoned with the golden letters "C" and "I", two men stood facing each other. One was a tall individual, dressed in a perfectly tailored gray suit. His dark brown hair framed a slender face, whose brown eyes sparkled with a glimmer of intelligence. He exuded an aura of calm and wisdom. His thin mustache added a touch of charm to his appearance, and his gestures were imbued with a quiet confidence.

The other man, stockier, almost massive, had a build that evoked that of a docker. His charcoal suit contrasted with his austere demeanor, and his bowler hat, slightly tilted on his head, added a veil of mystery to his scowling face. His beard, the same brown as his hair, framed his face, and his mustache, shaped like wolf fangs, emphasized his stern expression. His deep, piercing brown eyes seemed illuminated by a dark glow from which one could almost read souls like in an open book.

In the carriage, the whispers of the forest seemed to amplify, enveloping the three men in a vise of mystery. The man with the fine mustache finally broke the silence, his voice resonating like an echo from the depths of the forest.

"Lucius, 'F', we are approaching the van Goosens manor. It is time to address the subject that concerns us and brings us here."

" Indeed, Mr. 'J'. Otto Friedrich Gustav van Goosens, heir to the van Goosens lineage, some claim that his roots intertwine with the crowns of Prussia and Bavaria. It is said that a familial connection even ties him to Queen Victoria through the Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. An impressive ancestry, isn't it? " said the butler, whose voice, despite his position outside the cabin, seemed effortlessly to fill it.

"J" nodded, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. "But there is more, Lucius. Otto's parents were influential members of 'the society.' Discreet explorers, people of action and kindness to whom we owe a lot."

The man with the beard grumbled, "It doesn't matter, it is our duty to judge his worth by his actions, not by those of his ancestors."

"Calm down, 'F'," 'J' said to him, "calm down. We cannot deny the contribution of the van Goosens to 'society'."

Lucius acquiesced. "Indeed. The van Goosens have always been linked to the activities of our organization. At least as far back as I can remember. Their history extends within us like a shadow, concealing secrets of which few are aware and countless services."

"J" leaned forward, his eyes shining with deep determination. "That's why we must help Otto, guide him in his quest, whatever it may be. He carries within him the potential of society, a potential that could change the course of events."

"F", for his part, appeared more reserved, his brows furrowing as he consulted a carefully prepared file on his lap. "We must not forget the abysses that lie hidden in his history, the shadowy areas that could compromise our intentions."

"Are you referring to his military past, dear brother?"  " Asked ''J''.

"To the entirety of his life if I believe the file," replied 'F' dryly.

"J" sighed, a note of sadness in his gaze. "His life was marked by trials, conquests, and losses. Let us not forget that he enlisted in the army, hoping that his language skills would take him to India, but he was sent to Africa where his heroic acts were mixed with cases of insubordination."

"Yeah... His... "Feats"... in Africa, where it is said that he tried to surpass Quatermain but was always relegated to the rank of second. His thirst for glory borders on obsession. And today what? Here he is in search of an extraordinary animal? A beast whose reputation would exceed the limits of the possible and grant him the title of the greatest hunter in Africa? I'm sorry, but I don't want to help a new Captain Ahab hunt the white whale! And especially not out of pure vanity."

Lucius, true to his role as a silent confidant, let the story unfold while keeping the reins firmly in hand. The carriage continued to move through the surrounding darkness that seemed to swallow this forest despite the early hour.

"We are not really in Ahab's situation," said "J" sadly, his eyes lost in dark memories.

"Not yet 'I', not yet; but look where they have already brought her." "thirst for recognition, honor, and hunting… Straight towards a return to the van Goosens manor where, despite his exploits, he returned, dismissed from his army for insubordination, his mind seemingly haunted by the shadows and mysteries of Africa."

‘’J’’ was holding his chin, thoughtful. "Yes, that’s what our reports seem to indicate."

Silence settled between the two men. The landscape of oaks and pines with gray trunks passed by the windows, grim in the pale darkness of this late autumn morning.

"J" ends up placing a reassuring hand on "F"'s shoulder. "Our role is to give him the opportunity to prove his worth, to follow in his parents' footsteps. We will not let a member of society drift away. Society supports its own."

The vehicle continued on its way, crossing the moving shadows of the forest like a vessel navigating the murky waters of a mysterious ocean. ‘’F’’ remained silent, as if lost in dark thoughts. He knew his brother was right, but he did not like it at all.

  

 

The rustling of the foliage and the whispering of the wind seemed to create a music of secrets murmured in the ear of the morning.

Finally, Lucius broke the silence, his soft voice piercing the air with an enigmatic serenity. "Mr. 'J', Mr. 'F', we are approaching the van Goosens' residence. The manor emerges from the darkness, a silent sentinel of the history that has flowed within its walls."

"That devil Lucius, always making a fuss," hissed "F" between his teeth.

The two men in the carriage straightened up, their gazes turning towards the imposing silhouette of the manor that was gradually emerging from the darkness. The pale glimmers of dawn were finally beginning to pierce the sky, revealing the majestic outlines of the ancestral residence.

 

 

 

The van Goosens manor rose like an imposing specter in the heart of the dark forest. Its grimacing turrets, crowned with pointed battlements, pierced the sky like clawed fingers. The Flemish red brick harmoniously blended with the Gothic ornaments, creating a facade that was both majestic and mysterious. The walls, dotted with intricately carved gargoyles and arabesque patterns, seemed to tell forgotten tales from a distant era.

The cobblestone path leading to the entrance was lined with dark stone statues, frozen in melancholic poses, silent witnesses to the manor's past grandeur. Richly decorated pillars supported the porch where ancient flickering lanterns cast unsettling shadows on the worn ground.

The garden, once lush and vibrant with colors, was now a place of desolation. The flowerbeds, once flourishing, were now overrun by wild vegetation, their flowers wilted and petrified in time. The centenary trees stood like gloomy turrets, their bare branches stretching like pleading arms towards an eternally gray sky.

The whisper of the wind passed through the garden, carrying with it the shiver of abandonment and decline. Not a bird's song disturbed the silence, only the black and sinister crow found its voice in this desolate place, its hoarse voice echoing like a funeral warning.

As they walked through the gray paths of the garden, after getting down from the cab, "J", "F", and Lucius could almost feel the echoes of laughter and festivities that had once filled this space. Now, only memories remained, trapped in the past while the present was shrouded in a veil of silence and melancholy.

The van Goosens manor was a place where history and mystery intertwined in a dark and enchanting dance. Its walls, laden with secrets, seemed to beckon visitors to uncover the mysteries hidden behind its closed doors, promising unsettling revelations and discoveries that could forever change the fate of those who dared to venture into its darkness.

When the massive doors of the mansion opened, our three visitors entered a vast and gloomy hall. The walls were adorned with faded tapestries depicting scenes of epic battles and dark legends. An imposing crystal chandelier hanging from the vaulted ceiling cast shards of light onto the marble floor, creating dancing sparks that seemed to reflect the tormented soul of the manor. 

Despite the ravages of the years, one could still distinguish murals depicting epic hunting scenes and grand landscapes. A Persian rug dressed the cold floor, muffling the sound of footsteps and adding a note of opulence to the whole.

In the center of the hall stood an imposing marble sculpture of a roaring lion, symbolizing the power and nobility of the van Goosens lineage. Visitors could feel the watchful gaze of the butler and bodyguard: Abhishek Singh, weighing down on them from the spiral staircase that led to the upper floors. His elegant appearance in Sikh uniform added a colorful touch of exoticism that seemed to clash with the dark atmosphere of the manor.

The hunting trophies, silent witnesses to the exploits of Baron van Goosens, adorned the space. Stuffed animal heads stared at the visitors with their glassy eyes, frozen for eternity in expressions of wild life. Animal skins were carefully laid out on the floors, creating an atmosphere of unsettling African adventure tales that sparked the imagination.

The butler Abhishek Singh descended the stairs gracefully, his measured gait expressing both respect and authority. His carefully groomed beard and silk turban added a touch of elegance to his presence. He was the benevolent shadow watching over the manor and Baron van Goosens, uplifting the latter since the tragedy that had struck his family.

 

"Hello dear visitors." His gaze lingered for a moment on Lucius, scrutinizing him as if he knew him, with that little spark of surprise that always arose in the latter when he encountered old acquaintances astonished to find him unchanged. "It is a pleasure to welcome members of 'the society' to these places. It reminds the old man that I am of times long past. If you would be so kind as to follow me."

As the visitors moved through the corridors, the trophies of African animals mingled with those from the nearby forest. Heads of majestic lions stood alongside deer and wild boars from the local lands, creating a strange tableau where the natural worlds blended into a dark and enigmatic collection.

‘’F’’ and ‘’J’’ could not help but suppress a shiver. In this labyrinth of dark and narrow corridors, where shadows seemed to dance with a life of their own, richly carved doors opened onto luxurious chambers, their antique furniture bearing witness to the splendor of yesteryear.

The butler, with impeccable poise, continued to guide the visitors through the mazes of the manor. His footsteps echoed softly on the marble floors, creating a silent symphony. His piercing gaze seemed to anticipate each question before it was asked.

They finally reached a large room of imposing dimensions where the walls were adorned with carved wooden panels and exquisite hunting paintings. A huge fireplace crackled softly, spreading a comforting warmth throughout the room. Richly upholstered armchairs surrounded the fire, inviting visitors to settle in.

"Please, take a seat," invited Abhishek Singh in a soft and welcoming voice. "Baron van Goosens should be joining you shortly. He is deeply honored to receive such distinguished members of 'society' in these historically rich surroundings."

The visitors settled in, caught in the atmosphere that was both majestic and oppressive of the room. The flames of the hearth seemed to dance with mystery, revealing and hiding in turn the secrets that were buried within the manor.

The butler withdrew with a muted elegance, leaving the visitors alone with their thoughts and the crackling of the fire. The wait was tinged with anticipation and curiosity, each moment seeming to carry the full weight of the past and the future intersecting in this fleeting instant.

The van Goosens manor, a silent witness to centuries of stories and mysteries, continued to whisper its tales to those who were ready to listen. The visitors now found themselves at the heart of this dark and enchanting dance, awaiting what fate had in store for them within these walls laden with intrigue.

 

 

The moment stretched gently as if time itself had slowed in harmony with the enigmatic atmosphere of the manor. Suddenly, the soft sound of a footstep echoed in the corridor, breaking the silence with undeniable authority. The visitors instinctively turned their gazes toward the source of the sound.

The entrance of Baron van Goosens was striking. His steps were assured, each movement exuding absolute confidence in himself. His broad shoulders were framed by a long black velvet cloak that floated behind him like a mantle of shadow. The man who emerged from the darkness was imposing, his silhouette elegantly shaped by his attire and polished leather boots.

The Baron himself was tall and lean, his upright and haughty posture exuding an aura of dominance. His face was marked by the years, but it was his gaze that drew the most attention. His intensely blue eyes seemed to capture every speck of light, creating cold and calculating sparks. Beneath his nose, carefully trimmed mustaches took the shape of wolf fangs, adding a wild touch to his refined appearance.

Baron van Goosens seemed to possess a presence that commanded attention, a man who was used to being the center of his own universe. Each of his gestures was imbued with a certain grace, an innate confidence in his own importance. He had the charisma of a leader, but there was something deeply vain and proud in his gaze as if he regarded every person present as an audience captivated by his own performance.

"Gentlemen of 'the company', I welcome you to the van Goosens manor," he declared in a deep voice. Each of his words seemed to carry the weight of absolute confidence, those of a man who never doubted himself.

His gaze fell on "J" and "F", a glimmer of appreciation mixed with challenge. "It is an honor to welcome you to these places steeped in my family's history. I hope you find our meeting to be up to your expectations."

Visitors could feel the electric energy emanating from the Baron, a complex mix of arrogance, determination, and a desire to impress. His presence filled the room as if the manor itself was bending to his will.

The butler Abhishek Singh stood by his side, an expression of unwavering loyalty in his eyes. It was clearly palpable that Baron van Goosens was the master of this place, the undisputed ruler of this estate.

The Baron invites the visitors to stand up and come closer. "I am eager to hear what 'the company' expects from me and to discuss the matters that have brought us together on this day."

If "F" hadn't caught him by his jacket, "J" would have almost gotten up under the magnetic charisma of the Baron. But the brother was not the type to be easily impressed, especially since he didn't really like the idea of being there. Lucius, for his part, as a good butler, remained standing, facing Singh, a slight smile on his lips.

 As they all watched the master of the place, "F" broke the silence that had settled.

"The 'society' does not expect much from you, Mr. Baron... to be honest, he continued, gritting his teeth, it is rather you who has to expect from 'the society' in light of the good and loyal services it has received in the past from your illustrious family... As your letter has... Humm... With great elegance... Reminded us of that. I would also like to congratulate you, or your devoted butler, for having found the ways through which to send us this letter."

When "F" spoke, an almost palpable tension seemed to spread through the room, momentarily breaking the apparent harmony. Baron van Goosens, although used to receiving distinguished guests, could not hide a fleeting glimmer of irritation in his piercing eyes. His eyebrows slightly furrowed, betraying a subtle annoyance at "F"'s direct and nonchalant attitude. Nevertheless, he restrained any visible reaction, mastering his expression with a skill acquired over the years.

A faint smile stretched the baron's lips, but it was not a warm smile. It was more of a smile that seemed to say: "Ah, you dare." He slightly tilted his head, dissecting "F"'s words while maintaining an appearance of polished calm.

"It's quite true, Sir... 'F', isn't it?" replied the Baron in a muted voice, tinged with a hint of subtle irony. "Your reminder of my family's past contributions to 'society' is entirely accurate. We have always been willing to lend our support to causes that were in harmony with our common interests."

A slight movement of the Baron's chin seemed to indicate a tacit acknowledgment towards Lucius for facilitating communication. Abhishek Singh, remaining unperturbed at his side, showed no signs of reaction to "F"'s remarks.

The Baron took a step forward, his eyes still fixed on "F". "However, allow me to remind you that collaboration is a fundamental principle of any fruitful relationship. You spoke of what I might expect from 'the company'. Very well. And now, if you will allow me, I will explain it to you."

The firmness of his voice left little room for objection. The baron left no doubt as to his position of power and authority in this conversation. While maintaining his apparent calm, he revealed his intention with a cutting precision.

"What I am asking for is help and funding for a venture that is particularly dear to me. An expedition in Africa. A quest to hunt a legendary creature, known by various names such as the Nandi bear, Kerit, Chimit, Kikambungure, Duba, or Sabroukoo. A beast whose reputation transcends the boundaries of reality and whose capture would be the pinnacle of my hunting exploits."

The Baron had articulated each word with unwavering confidence. His voice resonated in the room, filled with the conviction that he was making a request that was not only important to him but also echoed the prestige and renown of his lineage.

He fixed his gaze on "F", a glint of defiance in his blue eyes. "That is my desire, gentlemen. A bold undertaking that could be the crowning achievement of my hunting career and which, I have no doubt, would bring undeniable glory to my family as well as to 'the company'. However, like any effort of this magnitude, it would require adequate resources."

He let a slight silence settle in, the weight of his words permeating the atmosphere. "I therefore expect 'society' to take my request into consideration and to view favorably the support of this expedition. After all, we have always been bound by common interests, haven't we?".

As Baron Van Goosens presented his request with unwavering confidence, a palpable tension hung in the room. "J"'s gaze briefly shifted from "F" to the baron, as if weighing the stakes of this delicate situation. A slight smile appeared on his lips. A smile tinged with understanding and respect for the traditions and family ties that had been woven over time.

He rose with a quiet grace, facing Baron van Goosens with an expression that conveyed both reflection and kindness. "Monsieur le Baron," he began in a measured voice. "I wish to express my gratitude for opening the doors of your home to us and for sharing your aspirations with us. The stories of your family and its contributions to 'society' have left an indelible mark in our annals."

His sincere gaze met that of the Baron, and a silent connection seemed to form between them, as if "I" recognized the heavy responsibility that weighed on the baron's shoulders as the heir of this prestigious lineage.

"I understand and respect your desire to accomplish a memorable act, a quest that would honor not only your own name but also that of your family and 'the company'. The bonds that unite us, woven over generations, are imbued with trust and mutual respect. You have my unconditional support for your quest, and I believe that my colleagues at 'the company' share this sentiment."

"J" made a slight gesture towards "F", acknowledging the differences of opinion that might exist within their group. "Of course, we are a society of diverse perspectives and opinions, but it is undeniable that our common desire is to preserve the values and ideals that unite us."

He paused, letting his words resonate in the air. "I am convinced that 'society' is willing to provide the necessary financial support for your expedition to Africa. Your quest to track the Nandi bear and accomplish an act worthy of great legends is an endeavor that resonates with our shared history. However, understand that we are simply not used to funding hunts, you see? Our motivation, like that of your ancestors, is usually more focused on the discovery and preservation of the wonders of nature or the imagination."

Baron van Goosens listened attentively, an apparent calm masking the whirlwind of thoughts unfolding within him. His gaze remained fixed on "J", his intense blue eyes capturing every nuance of the spoken words. A slight furrowing of his brows marked a moment of reflection as "J"'s words seemed to penetrate the superficial layers of his pride. Then, an almost imperceptible smile stretched the corners of his lips, betraying the impact of those words.

"I am grateful for your understanding and support, Sir," replied the Baron in a restrained voice. "Your words evoke values that have endured through generations, values that my family has always cherished and respected."

A silence enveloped the room as the Baron and "J" measured each other with their gaze, a silent interaction that seemed to transcend words. Then, the Baron spoke again: "It’s a unique opportunity, a mythical creature and the quest of an exceptional hunter. Glory for you as well as for me at the end of the road."

The Baron fell silent for a moment, letting his words resonate. His expression subtly changed, a glimmer of exasperation lighting up his eyes. "However, I want to make things clear. My patience has limits, and I will not tolerate undue delays or prolonged hesitations. The bear Nandi is not hunted with procrastination. If we pursue this venture, I expect total and determined commitment."

A shiver of impatience ran through the Baron, betraying the bubbling of his impetuous temperament. His gaze scrutinized every face in the room, conveying the unwavering firmness of his will. "I therefore invite you to take the necessary time to discuss and deliberate. But be aware that time is only passing, and the opportunity must be seized with determination." He signaled to Singh who, following him, left the room, leaving 'J', 'F', and Lucius alone.

"After what seemed to the master of the place an eternity, a decision was made."

Once out of the manor, "F" let his gaze wander over the desolate landscape before him. "I don’t like this van Goosens," he said... "and his grand airs... to adorn himself like that when his only fortune outside of this manor, which will soon be in ruins, rests solely on his name. He is at bay. I hope you are sure of yourself."

Silence fell again between the three men.

 ‘’J’’ spoke with words imbued with gravity: "The decision is made and the sails of destiny seem to have closed on this quest. We have, I hope, managed to awaken a glimmer of reflection in the mind of the Baron, a glimmer that could illuminate the path towards a mutually beneficial collaboration. Africa will change him…"

"... Or he will kill him," finished bitterly 'F'.

"We must now wait and see how the invisible forces of fate will unfold," replied 'J'.

Lucius, ever stoic, added in a calm voice: "Baron Van Goosens is a complex soul, full of contradictions. His quest for the bear Nandi may be much deeper than a simple hunt, and I sense that the gears of this story are beginning to turn."

As the trio stood there, the wind gently blew, carrying with it the whisper of secrets and promises still kept silent. 

"In any case, one thing is certain," continued 'F', Otto Friedrich Gustav van Goosens was going to leave for Africa… with our help. ».

‘’J’’ sighed: "Society never abandons its own."

 

 

 

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