{libation: chapter two/5} jane, malcolm, evan, karyn
Jane: *Curling her white-tipped fingers around the program, she had it rolled up as they traversed the gold-bedecked hall overflowing with decadence. She was giggling. Malcolm's expression (and comments under his breath) were priceless. The Opera had stopped for Intermission (she had batted tears away the last five minutes in a playfully ladylike manner, but really that aria did always make her cry) and now she suddenly cut herself off mid-word, program fluttering to the ground, bouncing off her long violet gown before laying forgotten.* Evan? *The exclamation left rounded lips, eyes darting over Malcolm's shoulder. Oh dear Lord--and Karyn. They both were here.* ...sorry, dear I was listening, I was-- oh I love her shawl... *Okay side note, but both were necessary comments she thought. Karyn's gown was beautiful. ...Malcolm hadn't turned. Uh oh.*
Malcolm: Very funny, Jane. *He rolled his eyes. Jane was always trying to get some kind of reaction out of him- that was a low blow actually.* Who's shawl? Honestly, Jane. -I'm- supposed to be the distracted one here, remember? Gritting my teeth through it selflessly for your enjoyment?
Evan: *He had an acute hearing for his name. Call it arrogance, for most certainly did so, but his head turned, lips flicking in surprise and amusement as he saw Jane. Turning back to look at Karyn on his arm, who looked exquisite as she always did but even more so tonight, he leaned in.* We've been spotted, darling. I take it you know Jane...*The look on her face said as much at least. And Stuart must know Karyn at least, through his mother.*
Jane: If you're actually enjoying it, *sweetly, her hand twirling a diamond stud* then no reason to apologize for not being distracted, my love. *Still with her eyes trained over his shoulder,* But flattered as I am, no, I...was not making a jest.
Karyn: *She stood tall, though Evan was still taller, feeling not the least bit self-conscious among the crowd. It was a bit nice to have her last name not be so contentious a point - though granted, at that moment her invitation read Miss Danielle Adler. Hand resting on Evan's, her eyebrow arched, all discussion on the finer points of the last sonata (and even the contents of her purse) falling away.* I do...*She cocked an eyebrow, seeming to remember to be wary without knowing the precise reason why.* And Malcolm...
Malcolm: *He scoffed, because while he was enjoying the evening, it was almost entirely because of Jane's company, of course. Not the falsettos.* Fine, I'll bite. I'll turn around and you can mock me about my gullibility...shit.
Evan: Ah. This might be a bit problematic, then. *Karyn was still in hiding, and under a different name, and in his self appointed care so he would not have her cover blown, or her safety even further risked.* So what will it be? Swear them to secrecy or wipe their minds?
Malcolm: *He looked to make sure Richard didn't find anything strange- he didn't want any gossip returning to court about Karyn's location- damn, could there be no free night from this mentality.* Did you know about them? *It was a very odd...oh, alright, he thought the pair was the most laughable one he had ever witnessed.*
Jane: *She rolled her eyes to the ceiling as the expletive left her lover's lips in such a ridiculous manner. At least it appeared only two had heard (and promptly walked off; oh the French!) Eyes still trailing over the golden gown (glorious), she paused at Malcolm's words.* I did not. *She suspected Leah had. Swallowing, finally casting her gaze back at him she murmured meaningful,* It would be rude not to say hello...meet his guest. *Whatever Karyn pretended her name was, anyway.*
Karyn: *Amused smirk crossing her lips at the suggestion she muttered back,* You tell me. Malcolm I trust, but Jane's father... *She paused - ah, that was it, now she remembered why she was wary. Eons ago when life had not been made of disguise and murder, Malcolm had complained in town, visiting with his mother. Her lips quirked, tone clipped,* Oh, you two have a history, do you not?
Malcolm: Oh but, sweetheart, you know being rude to him is a prerogative of mine. And now to be rude in two different countries, well! This must be some sort of record.
Evan: *he wrinkled his nose briefly at how trusting Karyn was of Malcolm before he shrugged.* I will trust your judgment on him. *He had been about to say he tended to avoid trusting people in general but that was not entirely true.* Jane is trustworthy as well- she knows how to keep a secret from her father. *He claimed personal experience, of course. Lips flicking, he nodded, surprised Karyn knew* We do, I courted her years ago. Still on good terms...shall we say hello to her and the semi-educated caveman?
Karyn: Thank you. *she said it matter of fact, aware it was not something Evan did often. Oh Lord she really had begun to know him hadn't she?*
Jane: Really, dear? *Why did Evan's appearance always make him so...she couldn't describe it beyond 'petty'; both of them became obnoxiously irritating. Was she flattered? Yes. Did she think it was just about her? Of course not. Even with her ego. Settling the matter for them then, she walked past Malcolm and called to Evan in a high, soft clipped voice,* Evan, how wonderful to see you! *She says this in French, only now swapping back,* you simply must introduce me to your friend. *Tilting her head to look at Karyn as she stopped in front of them.*
Karyn: *She got how it was Jane kept a secret despite her bigoted father instantly; that was a smart approach and it made her smile.* Danielle Adler, milady. Charming to meet you.
Jane: *echoes easily* Charmed.
Malcolm: Yes, really, the man is an insufferable ba- oh for God's sake Jane. *He would kill her, absolutely just strangle her. Why? God, oh god why, what had he done to deserve this? Lips pursed, he followed after her anyways.*
Evan: *Ah, well, decision made. Smiling fondly at Jane, he didn't have time to introduce Karyn by her new name for she took care of it herself.* And here I was giving my lovely companion all the credit for such a resplendent night. *he smirked as Malcolm reached them, glare already armed and ready.* Paris only grows more beautiful.
Malcolm: I could make it less beautiful by giving you a nice violet bruise. It would even match your tie.
Evan: Hello again, Malcolm. *he smirks before gesturing with his free hand to Karyn* Have you had the absolute honor and pleasure of meeting Miss Adler?
Malcolm: *He's restrained a roll of his eyes* No, I'm afraid not. *He had heard Karyn introducing herself as "Danielle" to Jane, and it made a sadness flash across his face for the briefest of moments before reaching them.* Enchante, mademoiselle. *See, he could talk in French too. Some of it.*
Evan: *Amused, with his eyes still on Karyn, he gestured once more, this time away from her.* Danielle, this is the lovely Jane Brackner and her...charming, courter Malcolm Stuart.
Malcolm: *Oh, he was charming alright. He would knock Roswell down and attack him with how charming he was.*
Jane: *Danielle. ...It only took her a moment to realize why Karyn had chosen that name, for her gut to twist, but it took another moment before she realized...Karyn wasn't hiding. Though Jane had not ever been undercover herself, she had read plenty of Sherlock Hol--oh dear Lord, Adler. Like Irene? Eyes widening, she momentarily ignored Malcolm's rude remark to say sweetly to Karyn,* You have a beautiful name, if you don't mind me saying?
Karyn: *She blinks. Ah. Right. There was another person Malcolm had complained about....extensively. Still she was a bit surprised by his blatant threat before thinking - perhaps he had never had the occasion in town. Relieved as she was they both went along without a flicker of giving the ghost away, she was not surprised nobles could lie.* Lovely to meet you both. *An eyebrow arched slowly, amused at the question,* Thank you.
Jane: Yes, have you ever read Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's work?
Karyn: *grin suddenly turns fond*
Naturally, one of my favorites. *her lips flick, eyes twinkling* I was flattered he chose my family name to write about.
Jane: She is quite the interesting character. *words heavy with the double meaning*
Karyn: *Well, she was not surprised nobles could suss out deceit either. She only grinned.* A favorite, truly. Are you saying Evan is Sherlock Holmes?
Evan: *Smirking briefly as Jane deduced the origin of Karyn's alias, he was reminded of the day he had come up with it on the spot, after weeks of having brought up the resemblance. It was quite uncanny.* Allow me this rare moment of modesty to say I do not believe I am quite as brilliant as he.
Malcolm: I agree. *This game was tiring. Dear Lord, sometimes he thinks he was never meant to be at court and play these schemes. False smiles came easier to Jane, not him; when he was displeased, he wanted to show it. This was torture.* It's quite the coincidence, running into you here.
Evan: Yes, quite the surprise. *He tilted his head, gesturing to Malcolm* I for one am shocked you would attend such an event. *Smirking* Forgive me for saying, but I was under the impression that you resemble most an uncultured ape.
Malcolm: *He grit his teeth* No need to apologize, Roswell. *He shrugged though the gesture seemed much more stiff than he would have liked* I'm a complex man.
Evan: *Wry* I'm sure. *Suddenly brighter, speaking to both Jane and Malcolm now.* What did you think of the tenor in the last sonata? Miss Adler and I were just discussing it.
Malcolm: *...Damn him. Clearing his throat, he shrugged and answered casually* I thought it was marvelous.
Jane: Modesty, Evan? Surely not. *False, bright surprise colored her expression as easily as if she were truly shocked. Still her nose had twitched at the word 'ape' - lips wrinkling with a hint of displeasure. Men.*
Karyn: An apology too... *Cocking an eyebrow a bit higher, she restrained a chuckle only by pressing the tip of her tongue hard against the inside of her cheek.* I confess, I am nearly speechless.
Jane: Now, boys. Play nice. *Her eyes narrowed a moment.* Lest I start to remind myself of my mother. *Well it was too late for that, but.*
Karyn: *covers her most unladylike snort with a laugh, and nods in agreement.* ...truly? Marvelous?
Jane: *She had sighed - able to tell in an instant Malcolm had no idea. And really it had...not been the finest tenor moment, but indignant for his sake she said generously,* There were many redeeming notes to make up the false one.
Karyn: *Oh, that was too good. Smirk curling at the corner of her lips she said lightly,* Oh, of course - how generous you are to forgive the man that momentary insult to our ears.
Jane: Momentary indeed - Evan, Miss Adler, might I ask for us to retire this conversation to a more private locale? *Patient she was not. Curious, she was, and damn the cat.*
Evan: I don't know of another way to play. *he smirks, casting his glance to Karyn and winking at her a moment.*
Malcolm: *Wrong adjective then, but he shrugged it off, not giving Evan the satisfaction of knowing his little trick had affected it, because it hadn't. He was grateful to Jane though, for throwing him a lifeline.*
Evan: *Restraining laughter, he licked his lips and then turned to Karyn with Jane's question, judging whether or not she would mind.* I suppose if it's quick. We really wouldn't want to miss the next act, or Malcolm's favorite tenor.
Malcolm: *He would punch him in the mouth.* Of course not.
Karyn: Too true. *As he winked, she smirked, grateful that she was not the sort to easily blush. Or easily wince, as Jane's question made it clear she wanted legitimate answers. *
Jane: Splendid. *amused as she was by Malcolm's expression, she did think they were perhaps leaving the only place they were going to be safe from the men drawing swords. As they slipped into a private room (after she had nodded to a disgruntled Richard who seemed to acquiesce only seeing they would not be alone), she muttered near Malcolm's ear.* You promised to behave until midnight. I would hate to miss our appointment at twelve-oh-one.
Karyn: *The moment the door had clicked shut and they were in another decadent room (she knew too well Arthur would want her to at least steal a glass or two, sitting behind a brandy bottle), she let Evan's arm go.* Thank you.
Jane: *Arching an eyebrow, saying easily,* Naturally Karyn. You never know whose listening -*fans near her throat, and eyes Malcolm with a tiny pout,* Dear, could you please get me a glass of that brandy?
Malcolm: *His frown remained through the reminder but he begrudgingly admitted she had a point. He was just grateful the private room already had a brandy set out so he wouldn't have to call for liquor.* I'll be delighted to. *And get one for himself too.*
Evan: *He nods to Karyn as she lets go of his arm and then adds only after waving his wand to insure total privacy* Your need to know more and everything, Jane, is as surprising as the sun rising in the east. *his lips flicked amused as he waited for Malcolm to leave the brandy to pour one for himself and Karyn* The real question here is, which curiosity will you satisfy first?
Malcolm: *He honestly hated how comfortable Roswell was with Jane, and hated it even more if he thought about precisely why that was. Handing the glass to Jane, he added dryly* Actually, I'm curious as to how Karyn manages to stand a second in your company.
Evan: Well, she's right here, Malcolm, you can ask her yourself.
Jane: Thank you darling. *instantly accepting the glass, she has already sat down and is smirking with ease at Evan's teasing comment.* I'm surprised of course, to have amazed you with this desire, knowing as I do how voracious you often are for such information yourself Evan.
Karyn: *Step. Then step back. Pft. Of course. Evan is meant to fetch her one, not herself. Because apparently as a lady she could not pour herself a glass. Jane's comment spun her in a circle -- she blinked -- then promptly looked at Malcolm to interpret. He, seemed stuck in a glower. Not helpful. About to ask Jane - she was thrown by Malcolm's interjection. Her words were clipped and icy.* Malcolm, were it not for Evan, and my own quick thinking, it would have been my neck snapped by the rope, left to loll and dangle, not my father's. *She took a sip, smiling thin through the burn.*
Jane: *quieter, her hand had jumped to rest on Malcolm's.* Well...that does put things in perspective.
Karyn: *Only nods, eyes back on Jane.*
Jane: *Squeezing Malcolm's hand, saying cautiously,* Though...Karyn, I saw you, that...that day--
Karyn: In the square? *without surprise, still smiling* Yes, I saw you as well. So you thought I would stay with my brother in the forest.
Jane: *matter of fact, not unkindly* I admit I did.
Karyn: *She tightens her grasp on the evening bag in memory of it's precious cargo. Her words were simple.* I confess the dirt and leaves does not suit my heels. *calmly* Nor can I do much to answer the atrocity - *she flicks her gaze to Malcolm, expecting he understands considering his own mother's plight,*...in such a regard.
Evan: *Voracious, he quite liked that word. Though there was fault with that statement, because it generalized "information." he sought knowledge, not gossip. He handed the glass to Karyn, appearing unphased by her comment but it was the opposite. He turned to Malcolm as well.* There you are.
Malcolm: *A bit put off by the plain statement, he cast his gaze down for a moment before taking a sip. Geesh, and he thought he could be blunt. Turning then, confused, for he wasn't sure what Jane was referring to, neither of them were at the square. He would have to ask her about that later.*
Evan: *Truth was he was very grateful that Karyn had chosen to remain with him, rather than stay with her brother but he knew the decision had more to do with her personal aspirations than any affection, or growing lack of disaffection, that she might have for him. It made him rather proud.*
Malcolm: *He nodded, understanding that at least. Karyn was a fighter, she wouldn't just sit back and do nothing, but she had a much different style than Mitchell and the rest.* How did you two even meet?
Evan: Over a painting. *he smirked, taking a sip of his drink*
Jane: *Her eyebrow arches slowly.* ...a painting? *Eyes swiveling over her drink at Evan in confusion, she hid her surprise behind amusement...and solid crystal.*
Karyn: *She laughed: high and bright, teasing,* His lack of appreciation for impressionism, rather.
Jane: *brightly; a much happier topic* One of the Monets?
Karyn: *nods, rapping her nail on the glass once*
Jane: *looks back to Evan, sly grin on her lips,* Still saying they are too bland then? That always surprised me, I must confess...surely you know better than most what passion subtlety may hide.
Karyn: *her lips press together suddenly, highly amused with agreement.* What do you think of Monet then, Malcolm?
Jane: *Immediately hearing "oh I ravish them, surely" she buttons her lips.*
Malcolm: *He scoffed, for he would never be caught meeting anyone over a painting, or over a book, or concert but truthfully he wasn't surprised to hear Evan had.* You have a problem with Monet?
Evan: My position on Impressionism remains the same. *he shrugged taking a sip* They're just pretty pictures, nothing more.
Malcolm: *He scoffed again, taking a lengthy sip of his brandy before turning to Karyn.* I believe his works inspire a quiet brilliance that not everyone has the intellect to comprehend.
Evan: Forgive me for preferring my passion blatantly overt. *Good Lord, was that ironic. He gave Karyn another quick glance before taking another small sip.* Any other questions?
Jane: *Glove-tipped fingers fluttered across her lips suddenly to suppress bursting into laughter - sometimes there was truly a problem with being so naturally expressive. Momentarily blaming her father (and the fact that Malcolm enjoyed so much) she shook her head briefly.* Well, I knew you enjoyed his paintings love, but I had no idea the depth and girth of your enthusiasm...*She couldn't help that. She winked.*
Karyn: Forgiven. *It was instant. Grin spreading to seem to encompass her entire being at the insinuation without shame, for a moment all she had was memory. It was unusual, almost disconcerting to feel so light with nostalgia. The burden of remembering was heavy to live with. It settled in her chest, choked her lungs until she took a breath of purpose.*
Jane: *Letting her hand fall back to Malcolm's arm, her lips flicked at the question; didn't Evan know better than to offer her freedom like that?* Well, now you mention it. *She exchanged the briefest glance with Malcolm.* ...What can we do to help, Karyn?
Karyn: *astonished--she looks sideways to Malcolm as well, hand tightening again on her bag as she echoed,* Malcolm?
Malcolm: *Oh, Jane. Smirking easier now, he shrugged and then added casually.* I'm a man of many surprises, my love.
Evan: *Cheeky. Eyebrows rising and wiggling in amusement, he took a final sip from his glass eyes trained on Jane and Malcolm, instantly wary.*
Malcolm: We're on your side, Karyn. *he smirks a moment* And I know, I know you have something up your sleeve- you don't have to tell us. *gesturing idly between himself and Jane* But, anything we can do...
Evan: *He wasn't too sure about that but it was Karyn's choice, of course. His gaze diverted to her now, to gauge her reaction*
Karyn: *She wanted to believe them, she did. It was unbelievably bloody ironic - she could hear Hector now - to think she might trust Evan with this before Malcolm. She knew very well he had been in trouble more times than one could count for rashly and righteously defending his family - his mother in particular, who was like her. Yet still she was wary - she had not explained to Evan either! - and...that wasn't all. She spoke quietly.* Prudent or not, I believe you. But... *Her gaze flicked to Jane.* Your father is Garrett Brackner.
Jane: *Leah had said once that anything came before 'but' did not count. Sure enough. Her eyes narrowed, hand tightened on Malcolm, but she nodded and spoke calmly enough.* Karyn, I would not tell my father.
Karyn: Oh no, you misunderstand me. *clearly* I do not wish to ask you to lie to him.
Jane: *her eyebrow flies, lips popping open in a perfect circle.*
Karyn: *looks at Malcolm* George, I believe if you were to inform him, would both support you and I - even if he disapproves of methods. But Garrett Brackner...
Jane:Just call him Garrett. *it slips through her open lips - Karyn's eyes snap back to her.* Omitting the title would be enough of a disrespect to him I assure you and ... and well I'm a Brackner too.
Karyn: I do not mean to disrespect you, Jane.
Jane: *waves this off* I know. I understand - you do not want me to be burdened with the lie.
Karyn: *honest* I should have told my father the truth.
Jane: *swallowing painfully tightly* I understand. But Karyn. *just as clearly* My father is wrong. Your father - he supported you and your brother.
Karyn: *a hard gleam in her eye* Supports us still.
Jane: Yes. *instantly, and then quietly, a bit bitter* Whereas my father walks this bloody line of being proud of us for having our own mind and maintains strictly disagreeing almost just for the sake of being contrary. You have to give him credit - it's a narrow line to walk, takes talent!
Karyn: *snorts, but nods* Which is why-
Jane: Which is why I already am burdened as you say. *fierce* And twice as burdened by being forced into an interminable purgatory of inaction.
Malcolm: *The moment Karyn brought up Garrett, he knew it was only downhill from there. He had to restrain a wince, and slipped sipped on his drink, wishing it could fill itself up. Jane was handling however as poised as ever, in a manner that he would always be amazed by and he would never be able to mimic. Wrinkling his nose, he sighed and spoke up* Karyn...we only want to help, Jane wants to help. If you're gonna refuse us, fine, but don't do it because of who her father is.
Evan: *He had kept quiet, knowing as he suspected Malcolm did, that cutting in between Karyn or Jane would be a decision easily turned mistake. Placing the empty class back on the table, he slipped a hand in his pocket and said simply* It's her decision in the end, Jane. Burdened you may be, burdened we are all in some regard, it's her plan and her choice.
Malcolm: *snaps* We know that.
Evan: Then don't pressure her.
Malcolm: *he frowns then shakes his head* We're not.
Evan: *repeats, slightly amused* Doubly burdened by an interminable purgatory of inaction, Jane? *eyebrows rise* You expect me to believe someone is capable of keeping you from something you want to do?
Malcolm: Exactly, and she wants to help.
Evan: There are many ways to help, not just this. Karyn *he turns back to her, taking a step forward, asking quieter* Do you want their help?
Karyn: *Silent and still, she does not waver with either of them snapping. There's a pit in her stomach, as she thinks quietly: Malcolm had not heard her either. It was not that she did not trust Jane. The idea that asking for her help would sow discord between father and daughter flares a fire in the pit. She couldn't. She just bloody couldn't. Barely restraining her wince as she understood: they already were at such odds, what she wanted truly to tell Jane was for them both to fucking get over it...but that meant ignoring what she and Garrett disagreed on. She could not do that either. Not when she disagreed with the man so violently herself. And how else should she feel towards these men whose blind hatred enabled the Sheriff to snap her father's neck? Oh bloody hell--* Yes. *She took Evan's hand and just nodded.* Yes. But I don't know how yet. *She did not know the plan - did not know truly if she could go through with it. Impulse had lead to the drab in her evening silk, and she...she had to think. She looked over Evan's shoulder to hold both of their gazes, words even.* If you would like to help, when I think things through -- you would have to come see me at Evan's house.
Jane: *Heartened as she was by Malcolm's defense, she tried not to be hurt. She loved her father. It was only natural someone be wary of her for it; however much she might lie to him about seeing Malcolm, the truth was she did not lie about anything else. Or hadn't. Sadness crossed her face as she heard his voice -- jane, you used to tell me everything... --, thought of the look on his face. Her heart pounded. And that day in the square, after she heard Mitchell's speech...she had run straight into her father's arms, told him she was sorry, that she didn't care anymore if only they could be all right. And she'd meant it: she had ceased asking about Frederick (he had a true place in the town, she was glad for her cousin, would not interfere), ceased snapping Lucy's name into conversation. Honestly, Jane had given up thinking that Lucy and Rick might return to the court somehow; she didn't want to hurt her father or uncle. They were the ones in pain, she thought, Rick was happy. Thoughts cut off as she heard Karyn, her head snapped up.* That's understandable. *About to ask if she wanted to think plans through aloud...she was interrupted with the call for the end to intermission. Jane bit her bottom lip; Karyn had already set her glass down.*
Karyn: Thank you. *quietly, she meant it to the whole room. She would not falter if she could help it; she would be careful, coy. Evan's insistence that this be left to her flattered her -- but more than that, she was touched. Touched by his trust, his appreciation for her independence, his faith. Relieved to fall back into the mask of Miss Adler, she straightened and said sweetly,* I believe we have a tenor to hear. *nodding her head at them, she took Evan's arm again and would walk out of the room with her head held high.*
Evan: *He nodded as Karyn reached a decision for right now at least, and let go of her hand as Jane spoke. Exhaling, he turned and took a step towards Jane, placing his hand on her shoulder. Ignoring Malcolm's glare, he said quietly to her.* Karyn is not trying to insult you or your father...just reminding you that active participation has just as many if not more consequences than the inaction you've been forced in. Know, that as at odds as you might be with him over this, that is not the worst thing. And know that right now the worse, is not only possible but highly probable. Especially should anything in these plans go -wrong-. So think it through before you visit, blossom. *He added that nickname because he could sense Malcolm leaning closer and closer trying to pick up what he was saying. Evan took a step back to Karyn and then said louder* And make sure Malcolm bathes before you bring him to my house. *He returned to Karyn as the bell rang, smiling a moment before smirking again at her words* Yes, let's see if he redeems himself.
Jane: *She had frowned briefly; torn between being irritated as she felt rather talked down to (part of the reason, truly, they were far better off as friends) and being glad he warned her - as it showed his concern. Still waters ran deep. Perhaps Evan disliked Monet's work because to him it was too much the self-portrait. Nodding once she suddenly grinned at the name, saying only,* I understand Evan.
Malcolm: *He would cut off a hand, and cut off his tongue, and cut off his prick. He would do exactly that, and have absolutely no remorse. He laughed falsely before giving him the finger, thankful for the call that signaled intermission was over. Right at that moment, it resembled more a hallelujah chorus. He turned away from him to look at Karyn, his friend, whom he had never before seen like this. Biting his bottom lip he nodded at Karyn as they left and then turned back to Jane; they seemed to have the same thought.*
Jane: *Her lips twitch and she waits until they are gone before squeezing Malcolm's hand - and realizes they are alone, Richard won't be able to merely appear. Instantly she leans in to kiss him hard and she doesn't stop until she can't breathe.* Thank you for defending me, love. *She has a tiny smile on her lips.* The tenor -was- godawful in that last set though. *She winks, still gripping his hand and then after a long pause she says softer,* ...you want to ask what I meant by the square don't you?
Malcolm: *Cupping her neck, he kissed her, not being able to keep his promise of waiting until twelve-oh-one under the Eiffel Tower. Licking his lips after they part again, he exhaled a chuckle and then nodded, saying wryly* I figured that too late. *He pauses and then nods, having actually forgotten about that detail for a moment* Yea, that would be helpful. *he narrows his eyes* but first, why on earth does he call you "blossom"?
Jane: *It was torture to think they would have to wait until twelve-oh-one now, but it was suddenly driven from her mind. Her little nose twitched as she giggled once,* Oh, because... *...She paused, cocked an eyebrow at him to challenge,* Do you truly want to know, Malcolm?
Malcolm: Yes, I truly wish to know because I need to know the magnitude of his offense in order to decide which body part to cut off fairly and accordingly. *Well, that, and anything he could come up with in his imagination was twice as worse as what it really was. At least, he thought so.*
Jane: Aw, baby you know how much I love it when you get jealous. *Patting his cheek, white glove against red skin, she continued matter of fact,* But he calls me blossom because I had blossoms on my dress print when I was worried about a History test - and about having seen you - *her fingers slipped up his chin to tug on his earlobe*- with Rachel - and he was saying to keep my chin up, that all buds would blossom eventually. *And then had proceeded to toy with the blossoms over her chest but well, Malcolm did not need to know that.* Satisfied?
Malcolm: Ah, well, that settles it then. *he nods importantly, lips pursed before they pop open with a smack and then he rises his eyebrows* I'm cutting off his tongue. And -that- my love, is generous of me. *He nods and then turns to look at the door sighing* Okay, quickly, tell me what you meant with the square before Richard bursts through the door and kills me with his stare.
Jane: Oh dear. *Instantly her hand drop down as his lips pop open and she seizes his tongue between forefinger and thumb.* You know how fond I am of your tongue, do not make me have to cut it off to settle the code of Babylon. *Clearing her throat primly as she lets him go and drops her hands to her lap, she pauses at the question and nods. It didn't matter that Richard wouldn't actually kill him.* Right. Well...I went in to town to deliver one of Neville's shirts that night - and to tell Frederick why I had not come earlier. Only...only with the sheriff newly sacked and the chaos in changeover...there were no guards. No witnesses from court - well I mean, apart from myself and Leah. And... Mitchell Stone was strolling through the center, he was handing out food, and then called for everyone to listen to him....gave one hell of a speech too. Said he would not back down, wanted their help...*paused, pfts* He even included Rick as part of the town.
Malcolm: *he furrowed his eyebrows as she simply plucked his tongue with her fingers, resisting the urge to bite down and then soothes his tongue by rubbing it against the roof of his mouth.* Wasn't aware we were in Babylon *he muttered under his breath before listening to the explanation and then nodding before his eyebrows popped in surprise* Mitchell Stone...nice to Frederick? It's official- the world's gone to hell.
Jane: *She shrugs the first statement off saying simply,* Seems an eye-for-an-eye world lately. *At what he chose to comment on she laughed, wiping her fingers daintily against the chair back and promptly leaning forward to both straighten his tie and...well, give him a view of her in this dress that was his. Whatever the snide remarks, Malcolm had supported her - defended her - bloody hell, here he was bringing her to the opera in the first place!* I know. And Rick did not snipe back either. Looked ready to kill him, but. *She tugged the tie straight, then smiled and released him.* There. *Her gaze flicked to his.* The town is behind Mitchell. Well, most of it. I imagine that...explains the recent upsurge in raids. *Exhaling,* And what...troubled me was how obvious it was Mitchell truly means to fight to the death.
Malcolm: *Yes, it did seem that way recently, but wasn't that exactly why they shouldn't give in? Malcolm frowned a little, realizing what Jane had said earlier was true: he was being far too diplomatic tonight. Aside from threatening Roswell that was. Even still, he was being rewarded, he could tell. A small smirk appeared on his face as her chest was placed so perfectly for his viewing pleasure. He nodded distractedly for a moment before actually remember to think.* Oh...yes, that does explain a bit. *Honestly, Damocles didn't appear too zealous about stopping them either. Not as long as they kept to thefts that was.* Wouldn't you be the same too though? In his position? His friends were killed, he was framed, they're being hunted like animals out there, Arthur was tortured, Daniel killed...*he shakes his head slowly, speaking quietly* Can you imagine living like that? Knowing that any day could be your last? If it were me, I would go down fighting.
Jane: *Winking at his small moment of distraction, she pressed her lips together through the list: thinking briefly that though all true, it was not the entire story. Mitchell's nephew had been there too - the man had murdered her uncle, ironically despite the fact Uncle Anthony had actually advocated muggleborns. She sighed, letting the thought flit away -- there was no winning on that subject, only pain, and she was as easily distracted by Malcolm's visage of righteous anger. Even more so by the hopeless shake of his head. Chilled by the words, she shook her head slowly,* I would say I couldn't but...I suppose in another way we are all living with it, and fighting it. *Her brows furrow.* I'd fight too. God not even just all you said - they were made homeless too. And I know, I know it sounds like a vain silly female argument but - it's only frivolous until you're the one sleeping on hard ground in the dirt and leaves every night without a clean shirt or any form of privacy.
Malcolm: It's not the same fight. Well *he tilted his head, amending* Not really. They're dealing with worse, so much worse, and it will always be much more important to them in a way that...we try to understand but we never fully will? I mean, mum's lived through it, and I understand through her but, I'm a privileged pureblood who never had to worry a day in his life about being hunted down and killed. *He licked his lips, clearing his throat and then adding on a lighter note* You know, I wouldn't mind going around shirtless. Actually, I feel like clothing only adds to my deep unresolved rage issues.
Jane: *Her brow furrows as she tilts her head, saying calmly,* I just meant the same...context, war, that we want the same thing. But...dear you have worries about if your mother would be killed, *she genuinely just was being technical, though her face clouded as she continued*-- and I- I did lose my uncle. I was terrified that night - they wanted me dead, you dead - just because of our bloodline, just because we're pureblood...wasn't that...wasn't that the same? *She paused as he continued, then laughed - happily contemplating the image.* Yes, well sweetheart your own game dictated you cannot take those clothes off until twelve-oh-one.
Wri: oww I know x_x and he says yes, completely XD
Malcolm: *He tilted his head hesitantly after a moment, admitting she was right on that, technically (and he knew the loss of her uncle was still keenly felt by all of them), but he said nothing else. His mother and father, hell now even -Vlad- believed it was ultimately the work of the same group of people who had attacked Mitchell. But he didn't want to talk about that now, not anymore. It was clear that they were all suffering in their own way but...like he had said before, their privileged lifestyle kept them from seeing how adversely affected others were. Yes, they had been attacked one night...one night. Muggleborns had been attacked for centuries. Yes, Jane and her family- Flora and Emmett and sweet little Isolde and not so sweet Camilla lost their father...but more than ten thousands of fathers and wives and children had been killed, hanged, executed, burned throughout the years. No, he didn't think it was the same. That didn't make his burden or Jane's or any other pureblood's any less important, or meaningful, or disastrous, it was just different. It was true they wanted the same thing, muggleborn rights and equality but the voracity, the passion with which they wanted it differed too. How exactly was he supposed to tell Jane that he didn't feel like she would completely understand until she had spent the night lying awake in overwhelming and consuming fear that a person you loved could be killed for being themselves- much like he had the night, and for many weeks to follow, that the truth had honestly sunk in? Maybe one day he would be able to let her know, explain why he kicked the shit out of Adrian, out of so many others, why he couldn't help but to react as strongly as he did. But today would not be that day. Today, it was about this opera, that he couldn't understand a lick of, but more importantly, it was about twelve-oh-one, to be able to just cast off the drapes of responsibility hanging over their shoulders for the night and snog under the tallest structure in the world.* Then the sooner we get done with this opera, the better! *he grinned and brought her hands up to kiss them and then motioned to the door with a tilt of his head.* Come on, off to my doom.
Jane: *Malcolm didn't have to speak for her to know something was going on; that emotions swirled in his gut and a hundred thoughts churned in his mind. His father and him had more in common than readily apparent she thought briefly; without a word, he conveyed a world of emotion. And simply by studying his guarded expression - Malcolm didn't chew his lip that way without cause - Jane knew. Troubled even as he kissed her hands, she didn't move even as he grinned at her.* Malcolm...*Did she want to ask? When the world was so unfair and her heart so heavy? Every fiber of her said 'yes'--wanted him to share the load, wanted the information, wanted to know so she could help. Jane wanted to understand. But searching his expression, she was fighting the fact that she could not determine if he wanted to talk now or not. A tiny grin on her own lips,* ...it's not your doom, baby, I'll be there every step of the way. Always. *She laces their fingers, waiting a pregnant momentbefore she added quieter,* Whatever it is, whatever you just swallowed... you know, I'll still always be there, Malcolm. I love you.