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kadobeclothing · 4 years

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Consumers Connecting to Sentimental Jewelry During the Coronavirus – WWD

The cornonavirus has stopped the fashion industry in its tracks, upending supply chains, closing retailers and forcing customers to reevaluate their purchases. But there are categories that are still seeing some spending — and it’s not just toilet paper, disinfectant and yoga leggings. The jewelry market, where buying is linked to emotions, is another one bucking the retail apocalypse. Talismans for protection, diamonds for a birthday, or a simple friendship bracelet with a written mantra are pieces packed with a sentimental punch, and in the new normal, those customers who still can are opening their wallets. “Jewelry has always been personal, and customers at this tumultuous time are looking for meaningful and enduring keepsake pieces,” explained Joanne Teichman, cofounder and managing director of Texas based retailer Ylang23.

“Our customers are gravitating toward pieces that presumably are making them feel good,” she said bluntly. Some of life’s most important moments are marked with jewelry, but as social distancing mandates have transformed the U.S., perennial springtime events are being adjusted. Birthday parties, graduations, engagements and Mother’s Day celebrations have been reimagined using videoconferencing technology like Zoom or Skype. “Jewelry tends to be an emotional purchase. There is either a sentimental or emotional connection or simply, people want to treat themselves to something that will make them happy and to look forward to wearing,” said Elyse Walker, founder and chief operating officer of Elyse Walker and Towne by Elyse Walker, the California-based retailer. “We know their families, birthdays and special occasions,” she said, adding that while the brand is checking in with clients, first and foremost they are making sure they are safe and healthy.

“Everyone of the 35-plus designers I work with have a sentimental piece in their collection,” said Melissa Geiser, fine jewelry buyer at Stanley Korshak, when asked about her jewelry assortment.

Sydney Evan Jewelry

Foundrae designer Beth Bugdaycay, who built her brand with talisman-like pendants steeped in mythical symbolism, explained, “It’s a time of transition.  And it’s during difficult times  that people are often more motivated to engage in finding what speaks to their heart and fulfills them; to align better with their life purpose, to show gratitude for things that they might have taken for granted.” The designer said the cultural slowdown has helped her team take extra care when discussing ideas with Foundrae’s clients. “I would say the uptick we are seeing is the amount of time that people can spend being really thoughtful about their purchases,” she mused. “So, I think the exchanges have been really personal.” In such uncertain times, jewelry with the theme of protection, healing or a sense of peace has “become elevated,” said Stanley Korshak’s Geiser. “People love to have something they can ‘feel’ — whether it is to feel the weight, to touch a pendant, or to look at a ring that makes them ‘feel’ good or remember a special time in their life.” Teichman agreed, adding, “Sentimental or protective pieces by designers like Retrouvai — our favorite is her flying pig which signifies anything is possible; Foundrae; Lito, and Marlo Laz are helping people stay grounded during this challenging time.”

Ylang23 closed on March 17 and since then, Teichman has seen a bump in online sales nationally and a 400 percent increase in Dallas sales, where the retailer is headquartered. According to the Ylang23 cofounder, her team has been shipping a lot of Cathy Waterman, who she called “an eternally optimistic and warm designer, and one who has always been at the center of love and sentiment. Her branch initial charms have been particularly coveted. One of our customers ordered a longtime favorite last week — the Child Charm. She had her grown daughter’s name engraved on the back to signify this time and how much she missed seeing her.” Robinson Pelham creative director Vanessa Chilton offered another case study in how her customer is thinking during the pandemic. “A father, who was recently separated from his family and is currently self-isolating, bought his four daughters two Orb hoops and Ear Wishes each to remind his children that he is always thinking of them and [they are] with him in spirit,” Chilton said. “The discussion with the client was not only about which styles they might like, but also the significance behind each [all of the pieces in this collection have an associated meaning]. I love that he chose to send them joy, happiness, bravery and hope rather than any ordinary gift.” Talisman-adorned jewels, with icons of protection and luck — evil eyes, Hamas or four leaf cloves — date back to the world’s oldest cultures. “They have a long history in the world dating back to ancient Egypt,” explained Rosanne Karmes, designer of jewelry brand Sydney Evan. “The eyes are against people giving you a bad eye, even by accident. Envious looks, jealousy or straight out wishing you harm….I feel the same holds true for the Hamas and the color red keeps you from harm.” The designer said she has seen an increase in sales of her protection pieces over the last two months. “There is also an increase of many of my other charms that are very happy and meaningful, like my iconic love, happy faces, flowers, also my lucky charms — horseshoes, wishbones, ladybugs,” she said.

Roxanne Assoulin Stuart Tyson

Simple friendship bracelets, originally from Central America, channel a nostalgia from youth, and now during the pandemic when many are apart from friends and loved ones, can offer an inexpensive way to highlight human connection. “Our jewelry is an uncomplicated indulgence, where, on the other hand, diamonds seem way more complicated,” said designer Roxanne Assoulin, whose colorful friendship style bracelets employ simple messaging like Just Breathe, One Day at a Time, Love Is All, or This Too Shall Pass. “It is designed to lift one up, to make one smile, to provide a distraction, to share with others, to celebrate one another, to celebrate ‘we.’ It’s to remind us, that even in these most challenging times, we can take a moment to connect and to find joy. “It’s never the jewelry itself that has the meaning, it’s only the wearer that can define what it means to them,” Assoulin said. “My mom’s jewelry feels way different to me than it may have felt to her. It’s more sentimental. Whereas for her, it may have been more about fashion, about power dressing. Who knows?” The emotional response to jewelry is a narrative leveraged in countless ads, like De Beers’ ubiquitous “A Diamond Is Forever” campaign, which has shaped consumers’ understanding of the precious stone since the Seventies. Just before the pandemic, Cartier, whose Love collection is built on the ultimate emotional connection, launched a film update to its “How Far Would You Go for Love” campaign rolled out on digital channels. While the French jewelry house doesn’t share figures, the Love collection is understood to be the driver of the brand’s business. While person-to-person retail has been on pause for over a month, buyers say transactions are happening on online channels. Walker’s team has been doing business via texts, e-mails and Instagram where her clients DM her team to request product. “Engagement has increased since everyone has been staying home and are on their phones,” she explained, adding, “Most important to us, we want our clients and friends to know that we are thinking of them. That is truly where are hearts are at, at the moment.” Geiser said texting or phone calls have always been a core part of client outreach for her team, and now they are experimenting with video calls, which she called an “elevated text” as a way to replace face-to-face contact. She explained that her clientele is purchasing pieces they have been looking at for some period of time. “For example, an evil-eye ring from Loree Rodkin, that gives the wearer protection or long sapphire strands from Ray Griffiths.” Social media marketing has been adjusted, too. “We have worked very hard on our messaging and to highlight more lifestyle, authentic and humanistic content, like our Safe at Home features with our staff and stylists. Right now, even though we are distancing, people want to connect, feel that they are a part of their community and know that they are in our thoughts,” Walker said of their current messaging. At Stanley Korshak, Geiser has taken to Facebook and Instagram with posts about each designer she stocks, telling stories about how she met them, or why she loves their jewelry, adding personal thoughts about each one. “They all have an interesting story to tell. Which I think is crucial when connecting customers with designers.“ Teichman has enlisted her daughter Alysa, Ylang23’s director of business development, to take the lead on demonstrating how to style some of jewelry the retailers carries on IG TV. “Our messaging always includes acknowledgment that this is a turbulent time, but that the occasions are there and jewelry brings joy,” she said. “During these hard times, we believe it’s so important to lead with a sense of humor and empathy,” Teichman added.

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fycourtera · 12 years

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{libation: chapter two/6} malcolm, alysa, and jezebel

(December 1894);

Alysa: *Her brother's door was gigantic. It loomed in front of her as she stood stock-still in just a nightgown, wrist tightly grasped in her own little hand. Cool air blew through the open window, trailing shivers up her spine as it brushed her short skirt against bare legs. There a guilty look on her face, fear in her brown eyes. She knew she shouldn't be awake. Mum had even read her two stories. And she didn't even know she and Malcolm had overheard! Well, maybe she did.

Dad had hugged her extra tight too before she was ordered out of the room - and she didn't mean to overhear, she didn't! Liam had missed with his ball and hit her doll and then Rosie had scolded him even though Lysa really didn't blame him, she swore, and they were being so loud that she'd gone to find Malcolm to see if he could fix it and the ball had gone over their shoulders and when they went to get it back for Liam well...it kind of just happened.

And now...she wished she could forget what Jezzie's dad had said. Malcolm hadn't said anything, so she thought she shouldn't either. It wasn't unusual that she didn't speak, so no one asked. Only when Mum put her in bed she couldn't close her eyes without picturing the terror described: flames and houses falling down and hearing the ghosts of screams an--*

Malcolm! *Despite how large the door was, she was through it in an instant, arm tight around her stuffed animal dragon, eyes wide as they looked over top the fluffy tail. She was praying she didn't wake him up if he was already asleep...but he wasn't. Throat dry, she gaped a moment and then said in a meek voice,* I...I can't sleep.

Malcolm: *Malcolm had asked Mum whether Jezz and her family could stay forever with them. Mum had smiled, but Malcolm could tell it wasn't the same. He had said it was because he liked seeing Jezebel, but he had just said that because he didn't want Mum to worry, he was strong after all. Tossing and turning in bed, Malcolm gripped the hilt of his practice sword and held it on top of his chest. The edges were blunted so it didn't cut but Malcolm knew if he hit hard enough he could leave a mean bruise; he had already been reprimanded by his aunt Maeve for attacking Vlad with it (though Vlad had been yelled at too, and his ear pulled, so it was fair.)

Malcolm pushed back the covers and sat up after tiring of counting the twinkling stars painted on his ceiling. What he had overheard with Alysa earlier seemed to come out of one of uncle Oliver's scary stories, but it wasn't. All those people were dead now....people like his mum, and Merida, and Jezebel and his friends- it wasn't fair. His eyes narrowed and brows furrowed as he wiped at them stubbornly.

If they had found all those people, how long before they found about his mum and tried to do the same? Father wouldn't let that happen, a small voice spoke in his head, getting persistently louder and louder the more he thought it. I won't let that happen either, was another thought, though that one was never as loud as the others. Eventually, one thought always won out over the rest, one thought that kept him awake like he was right at that moment: what if they couldn't?

His head snapped toward the door as it opened. Hearing his name, he thought the worse. They found us, he thought, gripping his sword tighter and jumping off the bed. His eyes widened as he saw it was only Alysa, and that aside from the mention of his name, the rest of the house was silent. No screaming, no fires...they were safe here.

He lowered his sword again, looking apologetic at his little sister for having frightened her. He placed the sword on his night table and then moved to grab Alysa's hand* I can't sleep either. *He walked them back to his bed so they could sit on the edge, feet dangling under them. He put an arm around her shoulders and rocked them side to side.* Are you scared, Lys?

Alysa: *Imagining a moment an earth-shattering shudder as her brother hit the floor, Lysa shook too. Her heart pounding wildly in her ear like a baby bird flapping hard as it tried to take off, she didn't move. Only hugged her Adelie closer (so named for how she had pronounced Mum's name for years) and stared wide-eyed and silent.

Malcolm wouldn't hurt her.

Still she felt better when he put the sword down, and better yet when he took her hand - Lord, he had big hands! Silently still, she let him gather her against his side and chest, squishing her gown. Shifting only to make sure Adelie could breathe, she nodded rapidly, eyes red-rimmed.*

I don't understand. Why..wh...what did Mr. Vane mean? Who would burn a village of magic people? Why? *Maybe someone should shift her. She couldn't breathe, just like Adelie, only she didn't have her nose and mouth crushed to her brother: they were wide, flaring and gaping in effort to swallow air. Only there was something stuck in her throat.*

Malcolm: *He hugged her tighter but only for a moment because then he worried about leaving her without breath, as she looked already as rattled as he felt. Dad told Malcolm that when Alysa was born, he was always mad, and jealous but every time Alysa cried in the middle of the night, Malcolm would be there and there would be no moving him away.

Eventually the jealousy went away, but the protectiveness remained; Alysa was his little sister and he would keep her safe, and keep Liam and Rosie safe too, and their mum, and Merida and Jezebel and her father and her siblings. From the evil people that would hurt them just because of who they were, and they would hurt Malcolm too just because he loved them. Evil always hated love. That was why Milady de Winter killed Constance.* Do you remember when mum and dad told you that we should keep mum's magic secret?

Alysa: *Her big brother wasn't usually silent so long. Eyes round as saucers at the question she nodded rapidly - she knew, of course she remembered that, they repeated it every time they went to court. Her mouth went suddenly as wide and round as her eyes - and she sniffled.* Do you mea-- *she gasps*--no, but- but Mum hasn't hurt anyone!! They can't--they can't!

Malcolm: *Quickly and stubbornly, he talked again before Alysa started crying; he didn't want to be the reason his little sister cried.* They won't. *He felt much more sure of it saying it out loud to reassure Alysa than he ever did when he thought it to himself.* That's why we're careful, that's why we keep it a secret, and maybe one day we won't have to. *Mum was a much better witch than most of the ladies in court, and the lords too, and it wasn't fair that she didn't get to show it. But maybe one day she would, maybe one day no one would care. If only that day had come sooner, then all those people in that village wouldn't be dead.* Besides, if anyone ever tried to hurt mum they'd have to get through dad and uncle Oliver and aunt Leanne and uncle Andre and aunt Ellen, and Damocles and Maeve and Abira and Leah and me, and mum too of course! *he smiles and then pokes her nose before taking one of her dragon's wings and moving it* And we have Adelie to protect us too. And nothing ever scares a dragon.

Alysa: *Holding her brother's gaze fiercely, she was invariably calmed by how steady his voice was. And that...that was a lot of people, to have to go through. But there were a lot of people in that village too...she didn't get it! But she giggled suddenly as he took Adelie and nodded, rubbing under her nose.* I guess...and *adds petulantly* Mum's a dragon too. We all are. *She still didn't understand. Why would they want to kill anyone? Why did she get to have magic and Mum wasn't supposed to? Her eyes widened and she breathed out,* Wai--don't-- would they want to kill -us- too because Mum is -our- mother?!

Malcolm: Yes we are *he nodded, the small smile still on his face as he remembered the day they had all decided what kind of dragons they would be. Rosie had chosen the Welsh Green of course, because green was her favorite color and they were more peaceful. Malcolm wanted to be a Hungarian Horntail obviously: the most dangerous breed of dragon in the entire world. He was snapped out of his thoughts by Alysa's question. He didn't want to lie to his sister, but he didn't want to upset her further. Truth was, he oftener wondered the same thing; whether or not evil and hate could sink that low. He supposed it could...they were children in that village too.* There are evil people in this world, Lys, who would do a matter of many horrible things, and whose reasons...well, they don't make sense at all. They're full of hate. *he frowns a moment before passing a hand through her hair* But in the end, good always triumphs over evil, and love always wins over hate. And that's what mum and dad do...they're fighting evil, and one day when we're old enough, we'll fight it too- we're fighting it even now just by talking about it, and saying we're not gonna let it win. *He rubs her shoulders, squeezing them once* They won't hurt mum, or you, or any of us. We're dragons. *roars and then pretends to breathe fire before tickling her sides*

Alysa: *It seemed whatever had settled in her chest had decided it was never going to move. But the more Malcolm talked, the more those gigantic hands of his squeezed her arm and petted her hair in comfort the more she seemed to be able to breathe through the block. She was only thrown off her wide-eyed quiet nodding (at Adelie too, for her brother was still wiggling her wing) when she squealed. First in laughter at his roar - and then in protest as he grabbed her, and whatever her fear and the wintry storm outside, it was all thrown out.* Malcolm!! *Throwing her hands down to try and peel her brother off her, giggling and gasping and hitting his side, in desperation she launched herself across her brother's bed for Adelie. Landing on her back, arms tight around the dragon she held her up against her face. Breathing into green-gold fluff, she squeaked her own roar out, adding,* Adelie help!! *Loudly, she was delighted as the trick worked; Dad made her fly every night around her bed for protection. And she was doing so now, only around Malcolm's face, tail whipping his hair.*

Malcolm: *He was laughing now too with his sister as she scrambled to get away from his tickling fingers, more focused on escaping than actually retaliating. As she lunged further in on his bed, he laughed again and made to follow her but instead he was met with a dragon attacking his face* Ah! No, Adelie! I'm innocent, I'm innocent I swear! *he playfully pleaded through laughs as he made sure not to actually hit the dragon as he swatted his hands through the air, he was grinning* I give, I give!

Alysa: *Breathless with laughter and rubbing her tired eyes she perks up to her knees as he surrenders.* Ha! *She says it playfully, amazed she had bested her brother. Pleased, she holds up her hands saying happily,* Down, Adelie! *Nothing happens. Oh bother. Trying to remember what Dad said to have her stop, her whole face crinkles in concentration.* Adelieeee!! No, no stop! I don't know what I di- it's Dad's spell!! *She finally just makes a grab for her tail and pulls her into her arms, holding fast until the spell breaks. She throws her arms out, letting the dragon fall on her lap and echoes Gen with a wide grin,* Voila!!

Malcolm: *He laughed even more as Alysa didn't manage to make her dragon stop, and had to physically restrain it from attacking him further. He grinned as the dragon tried to fly out of her arms until it stopped moving and then he laughed again and then clapped* Thank you, Lys! You saved me *he teases before leaning over to hug her*

Alysa: *At his words she beams, a wide toothy grin that showed the gap where she recently had lost one. Only a baby tooth though, she swore. Unfortunately Mum had said she couldn't get dragon fangs in it's place.* Always, brother. *Adelie lay forgotten a moment as she threw her arms around him too, eyes and nose screwed up tight.* Whatever happens, I'll protect you too, cause you're the best big brother anyone could ever ask for even if you can be annoying sometimes. *She nodded insistently against his chest.* The b--best. *That was cut off with a yawn, as she curled against him and kept her eyes shut.*

Malcolm: *he smiled and chuckled, a much softer sound than before and nodded.* You're the best too, sis. Love you. *He rocked her gently as she fell asleep. He tried to close her eyes too, but while he managed to calm Alysa enough to get her to sleep, he was still worried. After a while, he carefully moved out of his sister's hold, replacing himself with her plush dragon and then putting the covers over. Wiggling out of bed, he tip toed out of his room, careful not to wake her and walked the vast expanse of his house to where Jezebel and her family were staying. Peeking his head in Jezebel's room, he psst'ed, whispering* Jezebeell. Jezz?

Jezebel: *Laying on her belly in the alcove near the open window, she had her chin propped beneath her hands, scarlet strands of hair trapped in a tempest. Much as Malcolm's home was nice, she missed the constant presence of nature: the snow didn't bother her even as it littered the velvet carpet. She was very involved at that moment, counting the stars. It took her mind off everything.

Allie was asleep in her bed - baby Gabe was with Mum, but she knew her Dad had gone back to check on the holdfast. So many people were there...the escaped lucky few -god one of them, a boy who hadn't said a word, was her age!- and those like her scattered across the countryside who had come together to hide. Her shiver had nothing to do with the open window.

Startled, she spun around and through a hand up desperately trying to remember the stun spell Malcolm's Mum had taught her -- only to see Malcolm himself. Oops.* Malcolm! *In a shouted whisper, ignoring the few red sparks fizzling to non-existence around Malcolm now. She seized his hand, darted out the door and shut it so they wouldn't wake Allie. The moment they were clear, she threw her arms around her friend.*

Malcolm: *Pulling his head back a moment as he thought a spell was coming his way and then peeked again, opening the door a little further as she walked towards him, but they didn't stay in the room. Moving back into the hallway with her, he hugged her tight, his mind suddenly filling with worry again.* I have an idea *he pulled back, his words still soft, his hands still on her shoulders* I think you should stay with us. We have plenty of enough room for all of you and the woods are so close, and I'll convince mum to let you in the reserve all you want. What do you think?

Jezebel: *Wide-eyed, she focused on listening hard. Quietly, she held on to his hands tighter and tighter with every word. Licking her bottom lip and chewing she spoke quickly,* I want to but...but Malcolm--maybe you should come stay with us? You--you go to court! I mean your Dad...can he really protect us? All of us? Isn't that asking too much?

Malcolm: But if we hide...then they'll want to know why we're hiding. But here, they don't care- or well they do care but it's not the same- *he frowns, confused by his own logic and then frowns further as he his fear grows, bringing with it aggravation.* It's not fair, you shouldn't have to hide, and mum shouldn't have to lie. *He stayed quiet for a bit, letting his hands fall from her shoulders* Are you scared?

Jezebel: *Her nose wrinkled in angry agreement, flinching with the simple thought.* I don't know. *Her brows furrowed with stubbornness.* I don't want to be. I want to be strong. But...*She quieted, and then started nodding rapidly, she just didn't want to say it aloud. It was worse that way somehow.* I guess that's true though....and you, you shouldn't have to leave your home either! *tiniest pause* ...can we go to the reserve anyway?

Malcolm: *Malcolm nodded along, understanding. He felt that way too, and he could only imagine how she must feel, knowing she was in much more danger tham down the hall and down the staircases, going silently but quickly. Reaching downstairs, he turned towards the back, to go through the side door* We can borrow some slippers and coats from the wardrobe. *He opened it when they reached it, kneeling down to look for the slippers they left here for whenever they all woke up early and wanted to play in the snow, usually ignoring the boots most days. Finding Alysa's, he handed them to Jezebel before grabbing his. He slipped his already cold toes in the comfortable slipper, wiggling them inside before putting on the other pair.*

Jezebel: *relieved as he agreed instantly, she snagged his fingers tightly - holding fast as she ran with him. It felt better to run. Especially with Malcolm - he had noble parents and he said he loved her, she was safer that way. And he'd listened and didn't think her silly for wanting to go out - into the snow, the pasture of exotic creatures that were sometime dangerous in the black of night. Bouncing as he handed her slippers and a coat, she wriggled herself into them, breathing hard and grinning with determination.* Thanks, Malcolm. *It was almost shy.* I'm glad you're my friend. *She tied the coat off, rubbed her pink nose.* And...and even if I can't stay I'll come back all the time, I -swear-! You'll protect me and I'll protect you and we'll both protect our family. *Nodding with emphasis, her hands fisted in her pockets. Still she added quieter,* Thanks, though. And thanks for coming to find me....

Malcolm: Of course, Jezz. *He grinned and nodded, slipping his arms through his coat, adjusting the collar. He nodded enthusiastically* You should! Mum and dad wouldn't mind, I know they wouldn't. So if anything happens, anything at all- like mountain trolls or giants or acromantulas *Or evil people come to destroy them, but he didn't want to say that out loud* you come right here. You'll always be safe with me here. *He nodded importantly, knowing he meant it. They had to stick together, but they also had to be secret...for now. They had to keep the secret, because he didn't want to be the reason why they came to burn his mum. He rubbed at his eyes again, though they were dry. Of course they were, he was brave and he wasn't afraid of anything, just like his dad.* Well, I was worried about you...*he moved towards the door, opening it and then shivering a bit as the cold winter wind hit his face but he was smiling still as he turned to look at Jezebel* We have a crup by the way! He's really friendly, and he loves it in the snow, burrows in it everything. And a family of bowtruckles too- they're not so friendly.

Jezebel: *Eyes going round as she tucked her hair back, she nodded fervently - oh god, was that a possibility!?* Giants? *Rubbing hard over her heart, she scolded it with the same tone her Mum used under her breath,* Shh. *Her heart listened as much as baby Gabe did. Blinking, but she nodded again,* Okay. Okay I swear. And you - if you get in trouble with...with bowtruckles or mean people or anything you come to me too and you'll always be safe with me too. *Sticking her hand out to shake his imploringly, she smiled at him.* I swear. *And then she darted after him, swallowing as she added,* I was worried about you too. Everybody really. *She brightens--distracted blissfully.* A crup!? What's their name?

Malcolm: I promise *he nodded, shaking her hand once and then darting forward into the cold, knowing the door would close behind them. Happy to talk about something else, he decided to ignore what she had said before. He knew it wasn't very nice, but he also knew Jezebel wouldn't mind the distraction.* Technically, he doesn't have a name. Mum doesn't like to give them names because she says they already have names...we just don't speak their language to be able to ask them. *He shrugged, as it was one of the rare things he and his mum disagreed on.* But between you and me? *grins* His name is D'Artagnan.

Jezebel: *Rubbing a gust of snow from her eyes, she nearly instantly relaxes going outside. It seemed less...real, somehow, for which she was grateful. Tilting her head in confusion at the remark she said slowly,* Never thought about it that way before. But doesn't it get hard to remember? I mean if you constantly say "the grey-one"...*She shrugs and then laughs.* D'Artagnan?! Did you finish reading it then?

Malcolm: That's what I said! *he nodded, getting closer to the reserve gate, his hair freckled with snowflakes already.* Or what if they really don't have a name? Because they don't need a name? Names are a human concept...I guess. *he shrugs and then slides the bar lock off to unlock the gate and steps through it.* Yeah, well by myself I finally finished. Mum's been reading it to me since she says I was three weeks old. And they wonder why all I want to do is swordfight.

Jezebel: *She giggles: never having thought that 'names are a human concept' and thinking it passing odd for a statement and proof that Malcolm did live in what she considered a castle. Happily,* I don't wonder. You're really good at it -- I can hardly hold one up. Pretty rubbish with a bow too *brightens* - I did hit a bullseye the other day though! I mean it was mostly an accident cause I let go before lifting it all the way but it counts. And I'm better with daggers anyway - now if only I could actually use the spells I want to...when I do. *She darts her gaze every which way, suddenly realizing how loud she said that. A bit nervous, she added quieter, hoping terribly the wind couldn't carry her voice,* Do you want to practice?

#malcolm stuart #alysa stuart #jezebel vane #flashback #libation: chapter two #book: libation

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courtera · 13 years

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I guess I don’t blame really anyone involved. Well okay, I blamed Garrett’s stubborn predilection to holding with bigoted ancient policies—but I think it’s fair to hate things that are stupid.

Alysa Stuart

#quotes #she put it better than i could #xD #alysa stuart

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fycourtera · 12 years

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{chapter twenty-six: 9} alysa & vlad

Alysa: Vladimir! *The exclamation hot, she was startled to realize his whole name had slipped through her lips. She stopped dead in the cavernous hallway, her voices echo bouncing off stone, reminding her of her impertinence. Though a blush colored her cheeks, and a delicate hand rose to her lips, she shook the thought off a moment later. Honestly, he was lucky she did not say "Vladimir Allan Faye" in a tone echoing her mother's -- it really did seem like one she was prone to that morning. Her stomach twisted. She knew where he was walking, knew what was to occur - the entire court did. Most would be there. Her brother would (she imagined, provided he was torn from Jane) - but her father did not want her present. It relieved her: she did not feel made a child, only loved and cared for that he would not make her see the atrocity. She knew Vlad was not alone, that he had been barking something unimportant at Wilson when she shouted, but the thought did not dissuade her as she walked towards him, breath as quick as her steps. His expression was as distressing to her as her father's had been. He looked hard; as though every line in his face had been written inscrutable lest it crack and the ink bleed. It calmed her a moment - Vlad was walking out that door to watch a man die, he should not be unaffected by it. Then she felt sick for her own thought. It hurt her to watch her friend suffer, even if he would push off her concern and mutter about women's frailties purposefully to annoy her. Another thought occurred to her as she stopped in front of him with her hands crunched to her hips,. Wilson's presence behind him did not bother her - she only nodded at him, then looked at Vlad. Words of comfort died in her throat.* You're going to be standing with your father. *It wasn't a question, as she swallowed hard. Eyes blazing with the sudden ferocity in her gut, she dropped her hands from her waist and lifted them, muttering quick and hot,* Well, as long as I am being impertinent -- *Fingers cupping his cheeks, she leaned in to him swiftly, tasted his breath, let her eyes shut, and pressed her lips to his hard.*

Vlad: *For a moment he thought he was in trouble. Vlad was only ever referred to by his full name when he had brought on the wrath of either his parents, his sister, or one of his aunts. He had turned on his heel, an equally startled Wilson being much less graceful about turning around. Rolling his eyes briefly at his servant, his eyebrows rose in surprise and confusion as he saw who was at the end of the hallway.* Lysa? *She was shouting at him in public? He didn't think he'd ever see the day. The blush on her cheeks was much more familiar, and if it were any other day he might have teased her about it, but he didn't. An innocent man was due to be hanged. He felt so inadequate at the moment, unable to do anything to help. He had told Arthur to trust in him, to trust in his father, but he couldn't even manage this one thing. His worry, his anger, his disappointment, and his guilt were things he didn't have to tell Wilson about; the man seemed to know. He had been offering to be there at the hanging, in case Vlad needed anything. Feeling terribly puzzled, he simply told Wilson not to be ridiculous; there couldn't be a servant standing next to the reining Lord of Faye and his heir.* As is my duty. *Was the easy reply, though the statement had not been posed as a question. It was the truth nonetheless, that was the place where he belonged, at his father's side. Surprised yet again, it took him a full second to process what had happened, but not even half of one to respond in return. His eyes closed as he held her waist in his hands, his lips moving under hers slowly but firmly, breath heavy as they separated, utterly ignoring Wilson (though he would have noticed his servant suddenly intrigued on a painting if he had bothered looking.)* Impertinent's not a bad look on you, you know. *He revealed in a whisper, not fully backed away.*

Alysa: *Excellent. He had kissed her back. Oh, he'd done more than that; his mouth had opened under her demanding lips, his tongue had touched hers, his hands grabbed her waist, and he had successfully made her forget that anything else ever existed in the world. So...success, then, that -had- been the intent behind her plan, hadn't it been? Heart pounding, the sudden blaze of ferocity seemed to melt at his words, helped along by the fact that her certainty of her actions had been followed by that nagging thought of 'what now?' Fingers tracing his cheek before falling, she breathed hard, giggling at his words, gaze darting from his eyes to his lips to her toes.* ...Right. I'll remember that, Vlad. *She licked her chapped bottom lip and looked back up at him, eyes wide as she said softer,* I'll be here, then. After. *A remnant of her former ferocity, like a single ember in a fire that refused to die gleamed at him from her eyes another moment with the promise.* Whatever you need.

Vlad: *He smiled easier hearing the soft sound of her restrained laughter come out of her mouth, a mouth he had only moments before had the pleasure of kissing. Her plump lips made more swollen by the heat of their kiss, brought even more to his attention as a pink tongue darted to wet them. A hand reached up to cup her face, the gesture was unexpected, but came naturally to him. He brushed his thumb across her bottom lip before it traced the line of her jaw, his head nodding at her words, his heart lifting to hear them.* Thank you...*he leaned in again, this time placing a softer kiss on her lips, completely different from the one they had shared before. He pulled back with a small smile, offering a promise himself.* I'll come find you.

Alysa: You better. *The intended strength behind her words was somewhat diminished by the fact that his thumb brushing her lips had stolen her breath. Oh, damn him. Damn Vladimir Allan Faye, heir to the lordship, blasted prat. He knew the effect he was causing, she was sure of it. But her internal diatribe was cut short as she examined his softer expression. Kissing back, she was surprised to feel the softness of the gesture, the tenderness inherent in his reassurance. Smiling as honestly he did, her gaze was still clouded by the knowledge of what was to happen. Letting him go, only to nod again while clearing her throat at Wilson, she waited while he retreated before calling,* Vlad! *He turned back. The look he gave her, a smirk - clearly about to ask something clever about why she hadn't used his full name this time - behind sad, determined eyes broke her heart. Breathless, anxious, she took a half step towards him, gaze darting over his shoulder at the open door and then back to him. Though she stilled, her skirt brushed around her legs, blowing in the wind, as did her hair.* ...Whatever happens. *Her breath was deep and shaky, but the fire of her certainty was back in her words and gaze.* I still believe in, and I still will fight for, your family. And in you.

#alysa stuart #vlad faye #alydimir #CHEERS!#OMGOMGOMGOMGYAY!#this.was.brilliant.#Q

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fycourtera · 12 years

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{chapter twenty-six: 6} jalcolm & stuart family feels

*Any news that could rattle Jane to the point of forgetting herself and running, meant nothing good. And news that Blair was hesitant to share with him, only meant that it had to deal with his son. He had thanked Blair before she had managed to come to a conclusion about her internal conflict, and followed Jane with long and quick steps. The relief to see his children both unharmed, relatively in Malcolm's case, quickly turned in to exasperation and anger as he saw the body on the ground. Moving past Malcolm and Jane, he knelt next to Alysa to check on the boy. He felt the bones broken under his fingers, but there was hardly a scratch on the man's face, most of the blood gone except for the one on his clothing. His chest swelled with pride for his oldest daughter, knowing Adelina would feel the same if she were here too.* Good work, darling. *He spoke quietly with a brief smile before taking his wand and setting the bones in place. The one in the nose popped back with an almost obscene sound, the cheek and jaw mending easily enough. He cleaned him up further, though he could do little about the bruises. He rubbed his eyes, exhaling with the sudden decision before glamouring away the bruises. Pursing his lips, he stood once more, finally turning to Malcolm. He held his son's gaze in silence for a long time, they were Stuarts after all. Turning his gaze then to Jane at his side, he asked* Jane, would you give me a moment alone with my children?

Jane: Malcolm. *His name a light hum from her lips, for she was incapable of saying his name and not having it be obvious her affection for the man, she still managed a stern look after she rolled her eyes.* You are unbelievable, you know that? *Honestly, one of the last things she wanted to be thinking about right now, considering the blood -- oh all right, so seeing him so primal was attractive, but his sister was there! And his...father, oh, bloody--* George. *His name slipped from her lips as she heard him, a shiver going through her. Then she shut them hard, lest she say anything else - nominally, the vulgar curses going through her mind. She spun to see him, but he had moved past her and she just took a step closer to Malcolm, arm slipping up his to rest her chin against his nearest shoulder.*

Alysa: Dad! *The exclamation escaped her lips the moment she heard the door open, heard his quiet words. Eyes going wide as saucers she leaned back, about to mutter out that she was sorry, that she only had said that because she didn't want to worry or distract him -- she went silent as he did seeing his look. Oh, Lord how she wished her mother was here. Exchanging a look quickly with her brother, she was distracted when her father moved to kneel beside her. The quiet praise, and brief smile brought an honest one to her lips -- but only for a moment, as she swelled with pride and looked away abashed, her wariness apparent. While her Father worked she watched, only remembering after a moment to murmur,* Thanks, Dad. *It wasn't anything though -- he was proving that as his wand and hands moved swiftly. Her father didn't take enough credit for how brilliant a healer he was too, she thought quietly. He had saved Mum first. And then she had...Alysa's gaze darted to Malcolm, and she stood back up. Honestly, she didn't want to be there when Adrian woke up, at least not near enough that she could be reminded she had touched him. Quietly tucking her hands behind her skirt she startled seeing the blood still on her and waved her wand quickly to erase it. As her father and Malcolm stared at each other she said nothing, fidgeting, too used to it to be hopeful.*

Jane: *The silence in the room was deafening - dear Lord, how could any of them stand it?! More than once she opened her mouth to speak only to bite back a comment seeing the look on George's face. Her heart felt as if it would burst from her chest, she was unkindly aware of the loose strands of her bodice and the beads of sweat dripping down the back of her neck. She pressed her chin into Malcolm's shoulder tighter. Dad would have been screaming by now, she thought, and she would have been screaming back. The thought was eerie. It bounced around her head with too many others: too loud, too noisy, cowing her with their cacophony of silent, brutally ice-cold anger and disappointment. Dear God, if someone didn't say something soon--* What? *Oh, she heard it. She just had no desire to leave Malcolm's side. Breathing hard and anxious as she looked between George and Malcolm, she met his gaze again, breath still fluttery,* Lord Stuart...I I don't want to lea- *She tried. But the words stuck in her throat seeing Alysa shake her head a fraction of an inch and she sighed.Nodding once, she muttered,* Sorry. Yes, sir. *Then she went on her toes, kissed Malcolm's cheek and hissed in his ear - I'll be outside - and then, after curtsying to George, she swept from the room. Just because she clearly did have to leave didn't mean she could't go her way.*

Malcolm: *He thought he was used to this expression on his father. How many times throughout the years had he gotten in trouble for knocking the teeth out of a stupid sot's mouth for insulting his family? Honestly, Malcolm was a little disappointed that he didn't break a tooth off, even if he gave the man two black eyes. But his father was too good, and he healed Adrian as easy as if he was wrapping up a bandage. Malcolm didn't speak up, knowing that much at least. He held Jane close to him, knowing she would be dying with the inability to speak. As his dad finally spoke up, he almost winced, his lips pursing. He both wanted Jane to stay but didn't and found he could not speak up to tell his father to reconsider.*

George: Thank you, Jane. *He nodded to her, most politely and only after the door clicked shut behind him, and after he waved his wand again to put a silencing spell on the room, did he speak again.* Should I even bother asking you to explain, Malcolm?

Malcolm: Father, I-

George: Let me take an educated guess here, you sassed him, berated him, provoked him and then when he lashed out, no doubt with an insult about your mother, you felt the need to rearrange his face. *his eyebrows rose* How am I doing so far?

Malcolm: He was disrespecting, Blair, father. I was only-

George: Oh! *he cut off with a very unlike him laugh, his eyes narrowing* Meddling too, that makes more sense I suppose.

Malcolm: *he gritted his teeth, angered now by how his actions were being portrayed* So I should have just walked by and let him keep harassing Blair?

George: No, but you also don't come up and beat him to unconsciousness, Malcolm! *He could count the number of times he raised his voice with his children on one hand, and now he needed two.* You're an adult, are you not? Do you not call yourself a man? Start acting like one, a responsible one, not a deplorable one who acts just as rashly as that common swine over there.

Malcolm: *he groaned, squeezing his hands again and then shaking his head* I'm sick and tired of being diplomatic, father. I'm not cut out for it, you know it.

George: How would you know, when you haven't even given it a chance?

Malcolm: Well, I've never given being an opera singer a chance either, father, but I still know I would be rubbish at it.

George: Malcolm. *his mouth pursed, he shook his head.* You should know better by now.

Malcolm: Dad-

George: You should know better than to waste time with these foolish assaults, when we have more troubling matters around us! Or, do you feel that I've been getting too much sleep, that I do not have enough on my plate helping Damocles keep this place afloat, you also wanted to add in you getting arrested for assault and battery! At least Alysa has consideration about this, Malcolm, you said you wanted to help! Tell me then, exactly, how is this helping?

Alysa: Dad. *She had stayed silent, watching Jane leave (if she was not mistaken, there had been a twirl in her skirt, as if she had not moved more than a step outside the closing door before she pressed her ear against it). She stayed silent, even though the word 'meddling' made her cringe, even though it startled her to hear her father's voice raise, even though she had smirked and smiled at hearing Adrian described as a common swine. She kept quiet because there was nothing she could say to calm her father, and because part of her felt he was utterly right, and because most of her knew that Malcolm already knew that. Yet when he mentioned her name, his had fallen from her lips before she knew it. Pressing her hand around her wrist tighter behind her skirt, she said quietly,* Dad, neither of us think that -- you've been incredibly busy. We know. *Too busy. Though all three of them had spent the last month missing Mother, they had gone to see her on Dad's birthday, had visited with Aunt and Uncle in France, had played games with Owen and Gen. Her heart flipped over thinking how happy they had been, and how easily it fled from her mind now. Still, besides dinner their father had not been able to do much with them; everything was work, and everything was more important. She understood it just as she knew Malcolm did, agreed with it, but she hated it all the same. After the quickest glance to Malcolm, she looked back to her Dad, holding his gaze steadily and talking quieter,* And he wasn't meddling, he wasn't, Blair looked like she was going to be sick when I got here. Honestly. *Okay, that probably was also due to watching the fight, but it wasn't a lie. She quieted, and added with emotion jumping into her voice though her eyes did not waver from his,* You're right, but it's...hard. It's really hard, and it's always been hard, to listen to anyone call Mum anything, or you, or Malcolm. I--I mean, they're so gleeful now, Dad, how do you do it? How when they insult Mum and crow over it? It -- I mean it honestly boils my insides, and flummoxes me -- it...It's just hard. *much quieter, her gaze darting to his shoes now.* It's just hard, Dad.

George: *Yes, of course he knew that they knew how busy he was. And they were taking it maturely, in stride, and he was proud of them for it. He also missed them, missed the twins off at school, and missed Adelina. He rubbed at his face, nodding quietly with Alysa's words. She always kept the peace between her siblings, he recalled with a wistful longing for the simpler times. Pursing his lips again, he acknowledged with a sigh.* It is hard...and I apologize, that in my own stress I forget that I am not the only one who struggles. It doesn't get any easier *he relayed honestly, looking from Alysa to Malcolm again who had fallen silent, his arms crossed over his chest and his eyes cast down* But we're the better people, here. They're not worth our effort, our passion, or our attention. And they're not worth getting bruised and bloodied over either.

Malcolm: *At that he had to speak up, no longer content with standing quietly and properly admonished, because he wasn't. He wasn't regretting this, and if they gave him a choice he would do it all over again.* But mum is, our family is, friends like Blair are, isn't defending them worth that?

George: In the long run, it does more harm than good, Malcolm. *As his son turned his gaze away from him again he sighed, rubbing a hand across his mouth before spoke.* We can't afford this scandal, especially not today. I will modify his memory, leave him to believe that after a practice duel with you Malcolm, he came in here and fell asleep. Does anyone other than Jane and Blair know?

Malcolm: No. *Well, most likely no, but there were spies and birds and what else around court at all times.* Dad, you don't have to.

George: You're right, I don't have to, I need to. You make sure I never need to again, because if you aren't capable of being mature and responsible, I will simply send you back home for the rest of the year. And if you ever do something as -stupid- as this again, it's not home you'll be going, it's to France with your Aunt Leanne. Understood?

Malcolm: *He swallowed a few retorts, his frowning face fixated on a spot of blood on the floor, wishing it wasn't his for the sake of his pride. Nodding stiffly, he managed to get out softly.* Yes, father.

Alysa: *Her chin came up in surprise as her father apologized to her: that hadn't been her intent. She winced, guilty: making him feel worse had not been something she wanted, but she appreciated it all the same. She adored her family, and missing half of them just made her want to cling to the rest tighter - a fact that was harder when they were all so busy and wrapped up in this. Rubbing under her eyes to catch a stray tear, her words were still in a whisper,* Thanks. It's...just they spend an awful lot of effort, passion and attention on demeaning us. *And it was hard to ignore, however much there was always another to turn to, who balanced it out. Rubbing under her eye harder, she found her mouth open wide, gaping as her father suggested - no, stated that he would do, exactly as Malcolm had postulated. God, they could be so alike some times, even when they were at odds. Nodding once in agreement, she swallowed hard; mentally imploring Jane and Blair not to tell anyone else. She doubted Jane would, Jane knew better, and Blair wasn't likely either from what she knew of the girl but -- still, God, if her father was covering this up...she didn't want to think about what it meant for the state of the court. Quietly echoing,* Yes, father. *She shook her hand through her hair, adding quietly,* Are you going to tell Mum?

Malcolm: *Malcolm snorted, nodding his head in fierce agreement with his sister. Damn buggers, who had nothing better to do- hadn't they heard of a good shag, or even a wank? He pursed his lips, looking back towards the door, knowing Jane was right outside it and wanting to get back to her.*

George: *He nodded as they agreed and then moved towards Adrian again. The disciplining was his least favorite part of parenthood, doubtless it was every parents' least favorite part.* I am. *He didn't keep secrets from Adelina, especially not ones in which their children were involved.* I'll tell her personally, after this day is over. *He rubbed at his temple, knowing he had to get back to preparations soon.* You can go, I'll finish up here. And find Blair, please, and implore her silence.

Alysa: *She nods, and then lights up hearing he would tell her by visiting her -- honestly, she couldn't imagine the personal hell her parents were in. It was true that magic took some of the trouble out of it; that they could travel by Floo back and forth, or even simple Apparition, and be in front of each other in no time. However it was also true they were no longer sleeping in the same bed. She knew that accounted for a part of her Father's foul mood, not to mention it was a direct result of the prejudice they fought in everything else. It was a simple truth: her father was more joyous when her Mum was there. An instant from asking if she could go with her father to their house, she swallowed the question back, thinking she would ask him later, after...after everything happened. They had distracted him enough. With the briefest glance to her brother at her side, she said lightly,* I'll find Blair. *Quick, light steps and then she had her hand on her father's arm. She had to go on nearly the tips of her toes. Lord, he was tall, why couldn't she have inherited that? He was nearly twice the size of her mother, she thought amused. Still she pressed her lips to his cheek in a soft kiss, murmuring,* I love you, Dad. *That was all she wanted to do right that moment: support him, knowing the difficult day ahead. Then she stepped back in line with Malcolm. With the tiniest smile, she added with the general demeanor of granting him a huge favor, as if she would have had a choice, * You can tell Jane. Such a burden, I'm sure. *She winked, and of course once she was through the door to find Blair, she paused only to wave at Jane. She was leaning against the opposite wall, looking remarkably interested in the flowers in a vase: Alysa's lips quirked, wondering if she wanted to know what special memories those Columbian roses her brother had imported had, and decided quickly she did not. Jane blew her a kiss as she left, and Alysa found herself giggling despite the pit in her stomach.*

Jane: *The roses sitting in a vase outside the parlor made her laugh as she spotted them, finally determining that Lord Stuart was too bloody good at silencing spells. It was hardly the first time she had noticed the flowers: in the last few days, once she had snagged one and left it for him to find on top of his sword in the armory, she was slowly seeing them everywhere. Uncle Damocles had to be so pleased he was taking such an interest in decorating. She wondered how many roses there were - how long this game would go on. Considering her whispered promise to him as they had said goodbye that morning too...would she be finding scarves next? Spinning suddenly as she heard the door open, she beamed at Alysa's look of exasperation, waved, blew a kiss - but her attention was on Malcolm following her in a heartbeat. She waited until the door was closed and George's own spell would prevent him from hearing her.* Love, aren't you going to run out of flowers soon, leaving them scattered like this? I have to admit, this is the strangest take on deflowering I have yet seen. *She wiggled both eyebrows, but brought her hands up to cup his neck and cheeks, pulling him down to her and kissing hard, soothing his swollen, flushed lips with a few flicks of her tongue, swallowing his ire. Only when she was breathless did she pull back, looking decidedly less playful but with no less adoration. Her words were quiet.* What happened?

Malcolm: *His father never seemed old to him, even with the signs of age taking over: frown lines that once used to disappear when his face softened remained ingrained, his hair had its fair share of gray hairs, sharp lines of muscle softened, among other traits. But to Malcolm, he never appeared old, not until right then. Keeping silent, he only nodded with a small smile at Lysa' comment, before following her out the door, with a final look at his dad. He almost apologized, but he remembered then what his father always said: an apology for the consequences, not for the deed itself, was not a true apology at all. So he closed the door behind him, smiling again as he saw Jane.* Not at all, I bought enough to decorate the planet, so court shouldn't be a problem. *It was easier to be happier outside of that room, he noticed. Reaching Jane, his hands searched for her and his mouth opened with hers, savoring the sensation. He thought he had released all the pent up emotions inside of him when he made use of Baudet as his personal punching bag, but he was wrong, very wrong. His mouth instinctively followed hers when she pulled back, but could not find it. Opening his eyes, breath scant, he just chuckled at her question, shaking his head.* The usual. I'm irresponsible, immature, inconsiderate, and if I put a toe out of line, he's sending me home. If I do something -really- stupid, again, to France. *He shrugged before adding casually, twirling a stray piece of her hair between his fingers* So, you'll have to keep me occupied and help me focus my anger elsewhere.

Jane: *His forehead pressed heavily against hers, nose brushing her tip as he took a heady breath. Noticing his lips sought hers again she smiled, shook her head at him and lifted her index finger to rest on his hungry mouth. Tapping once to indicate she wanted an answer first, she got it before she'd said a word: she was spending too much time with Stuarts. It took effort to frown, effort she disdained of, so she settled for a stern line. He had been irresponsible from...one point of view, but...* Well, you behaved those ways, yes. But you also acted courageously in justified defense, with honorable intentions if nothing else. I don't see why you shouldn't be praised for good even when criticized for ill. It's just a matter of balance. *She winked. Then she laughed, despite the twist in her stomach at the threat of sending him home - where she knew her Father wouldn't let her go - or to bloody France.* Oh will I have to? *A brow arched.* How demanding you are, honey.

Malcolm: *He chuckled, marveling at how easily Jane could turn a situation around with a few carefully chosen words.* Because he knows I receive praises from elsewhere. *he wiggled his eyebrows* You call me hero, my father calls me fool. I find that I do not care for either. *He licked his lips, much preferring them to be swollen from kissing Jane than by having been in a fight.* Not in the slightest, I'm not requiring -all- of your attention...*he wrapped his arms around her waist, smiling teasingly before finishing his sentence.* just most of it.

Jane: Hm. *Raising her eyebrow higher, she tapped her own lips with the same finger considering.* You're right, I don't care for it either. *teasing, she sways in her grasp* That sounds unfair to your father, sweetheart, I should talk to him, I have no problem being stern with you so he can praise instead. *Smirk light through pursed lips, she laughed again, letting him yank her in. Shrugging in his grasp so her chest brushed against his, she mused aloud graciously,* If you want to lavish attention on me love, I have no qualm, I can make that sacrifice...

Malcolm: To be honest, I much prefer your praising, my love. It's always so...enjoyable. *He grinned. Everything was so much easier to endure with Jane at his side, or well in this case, in front of him, pressed against his chest. He chuckled again, shaking his head gently before allowing* And if we both 'lavish attention' on each other instead? *He grinned* Find that balance you so fondly spoke of?

Jane: I know. *She lifted her arms to encircle his neck and shoulders.* You're vocal with your enjoyment honey. *There was not one bit of surprise in her voice or expression: this was just a fact spoken with a smile.* That's why I don't understand why you'd act in a way that would deprive you of my company. *There was a moment of an honest plea.* Please don't? *She chuckled suddenly, loud as she was squeezed against him.* Well, you know how fond I am of fairness honey, but now? *Her brow arched.* You'll have to make me stay dear, or else I'm willfully ignoring my cousin.

Malcolm: *He sighed, not really surprised that she would manage a way to refer to the previous subject. He shook his head, assuring her quietly.* I won't. I'll be the perfect model of behavior...in public. *He pursed his lips again, looking around pointedly before saying* Starting tomorrow. *It would be difficult...oh, who was he joking? He could never be completely behaved. He licked his lips, thinking it over.* Okay. *He bent to scoop her up in his arms, his eyebrows wiggling and then started walking*

Jane: *Not surprised by his pout of frustration, she leans in and kisses him, intending to kiss it away by reminding him what he gained. Amused, she promised,* How about I say, since this a matter of balance after all, that for as polite you are in public, I'll match act for act being naughty in private? *Her eyebrows wiggled, but she was cut off by a sudden squeal of-* Malcolm! *-escaping her lips as he lifted her clean off her feet. A hand going to his neck, fingers twisting in his hair to hold on, she shook her head at him, enjoying the ride anyway.* Love, where exactly are we going? Impatient to have me? *And she loved it, she loved every bit of it, and loved it and him more for distracting her from the day's events.*

#chapter twenty six #jane brackner #malcolm stuart #alysa stuart #george stuart #akdlfjklasdjf #family stuart #book: the proclamation #Q

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fycourtera · 12 years

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{chapter twenty-six: 3} blair, jalcolm, alysa, george & adrian

Blair: Oh, and speak of the devil. *...Oops, she actually (for once) had not meant to say that aloud, for 'doth appear' he already had. She had just been discussing Adrian - and Octavius - with Aria before she had to go (for an undisclosed reason, but what would woman be without their secrets?) And now there he was. At least it was the former. Adrian made her frown, but the Lord Councillor made her squirm every time he cast that smile at her. Sitting up a bit straighter in the chair, she paused her movements suddenly: he would want her to stand, she thought. After all, her 'better' had just walked into the room. Lowering her book onto her lap and her lap back onto the seat pointedly, she brushed her hair over her shoulder and said softer than usual,* If you wouldn't mind leaving, I have enough on my mind without your jibes today.

Adrian: I thought I smelled dog. *He commented dryly, his mouth twisting in the distaste he harbored for this stupid girl. Every time he saw her, walking as if she were their equal, as if she had every right to be here, as if she belonged, he wished he could promptly throw her out himself. It was aggravating to think they would not even think of leaving without finding the last one of their little group of mongrels. How pathetic, he thought to himself, that they still harbored the hope that they would find something more than a corpse.* I see you've yet to learn manners. But that's hardly surprising, due to your unfortunate lineage.

Blair: How creative you are, Adrian. *Dog. She grit her teeth. Her knuckles were turning white around the edges of the book with absurd ease. She blamed her mother's pale skin. In danger of ripping the spindly framework, she opened to her page delicately and left it spread eagled it's back. It rested on her lap while she gripped the chair instead; she was yet determined not to stand. Her words were still low, sweet* It beggars my poor commoner's mind to understand a wit such as yours. *Her eyes flick back up to hold his gaze steady, irritated. Hadn't she tried to just tell him to leave?* As surprising as it is that one with such an impressive lineage as yourself has such a substantial instruction in and comprehension thereof the ways of irony. *Her hand flutters to lay over her heart.* I am amazed.

Adrian: *Well, if he gained some enjoyment out of this, it was that he visibly irritated her more than she did to him. He smirked, as that was to be expected. He had standing, upbringing, education, and knew how to behave unlike the likes of her, who couldn't even manage to respect her superiors. How could people live like that, as common as fleas on a dog? Adrian pitied them, but he also kicked them if they were in his way. What angered him more was the way in which she tried to disguise her baseborn nature with fancy words. He snorted, uncrossing his arms before replying coolly* Then be amazed in silence. A woman should be seen, not heard. A mudblood woman, neither, but there's something to be said about friends in high places, I suppose.

Malcolm: You want to say that again, Baudet? *He was not going to intervene. He wasn't, he told himself as he walking by that it was not of his business. He also told himself, Blair could handle a little shit like Adrian, but before he knew it he had walked into that room too, his eyes fixed in a glare at the pale, gangly man in front of him. If man indeed was the word.* Not so quick to mouth off now, are you?

Adrian: Always meddling in things that don't concern you, Stuart. *he hissed, turning away from Blair to face the man.* I was just teaching our guest here some manners.

Malcolm: Insulting a girl and her family constitutes as manners, now? *he spat out, taking a step forward* You're bothering her, a gentlemen is supposed to know when he's not wanted, and then leave accordingly. But then again, you're no gentleman, are you Baudet?

Adrian: Oh, and you are?

Malcolm: Absolutely not. So I have no qualms, with taking my sword out and smacking you around the whole damn court for everyone to see.

Adrian: *he gritted his teeth, his eyes narrowed into slits as he took a step forward as well.* How dare you talk to me like that?

Malcolm: How dare you talk to -her- that way?! Have you no shame? No decency- oh, wait *he clapped his hands together, lips pursed* of course you don't.

Blair: *It was incredible. She had not imagined he could look uglier. Yet with every vile word out of his mouth his face reached for new heights, contorting and twisting. It was like watching a cartoon. It was much more interesting than his drivel, and so she stayed quiet -- frankly more insulted on behalf of her gender than her bloodline. Someone would be forced to marry this monstrosity? Blair only suppressed her shudder as she went still in first in anger at his words, and then in surprise to have her reply cut off with another's voice. Swiveling around in surprise, she had to kick her heel up on the chair and crane her neck around as Adrian planted himself between them with his back to her. Her face broke out in a slow smile to recognize Malcolm Stuart. Shutting her mouth, she was hard pressed to do or say anything: much as she could have said she did not need a man to rescue her, she also couldn't deny enjoying it. For a moment she found herself thinking what Kale would have done -- he wouldn't have used words, wouldn't have wasted the air on the bastard. There was a smirk on her lips now. A smash to his jaw, and then he'd have cupped her hand, laced their fingers and they would have been out. Her heart skipped a beat at the memory- but she was distracted by the mention of a sword. Woah, wait. As the two men started walking towards each other, she hopped off the chair arms to stand. All she really wanted to do actually, was stand there and clap, but much as a duel would be entertaining...* Sorry, my lord. *Her eyes stayed fixed on Malcolm's as she bowed her head an instant, smirk lifting. Of course she was only saying this with the express purpose of insulting Adrian, but the words came easily enough under those circumstances.* I should have stood the moment you came in. *She shot a look at Adrian sideways.* I am meant to, after all, when a respectable gentleman enters. *She cleared her throat, gaze darting back to Malcolm as she added much more genuinely.* Thanks, Malcolm, but...of course he doesn't.

Malcolm: *He almost laughed to see the expression on Adrian's face as Blair paid him the respect she had so plainly denied the other man. Keeping a smirk in check, he nodded.* Well, the least, that he could do is offer an apology.

Adrian: An apology?! *he spat out incredulously, stepping back as if he had been hit with a blow. Gritting his teeth, he glanced at Blair again, as if judging how worthy he felt she was of an apology from him; she wasn't.* What she deserves is a slap across the face-

Malcolm: *He swung his hand, striking him soundly, undeniably pleased as the smack resonated throughout the room, his eyebrows rising, though his breath was heavier now, his anger subdued on free will alone, the insolent git.* You mean like that?

Adrian: *A startled gasp left his mouth as his face turned with the force of the hit. Turning back, he growled, reaching for his wand* You fucking-

Malcolm: *he scoffed as he kicked the wand out of his hand before he could manage a spell, hands reaching out and grabbing the man's suit, pushing him towards the wall* Apologize.Then crawl back into the hole you came from.

Adrian: *outraged and furious, he struggles to get out of his grip, his voice icy and raspy* Fuck you, Stuart. I would say the same to you, but your mother's long gone.

Malcolm: *he pulled him back to throw him against the wall again, keeping him there with an echoing slam.* My mother is the one at home, kept there by the legislation of men as archaic as you.

Adrian: *he laughed mockingly, his mouth twisting in a smirk* Your mother was a blood traitor cunt. And that woman who took you in a savage little whore, much like your friend here-

Malcolm: *His fist collided with the side of Baudet's mouth, the intention was to get him to stop talking, stop talking for eternity. A knee to his stomach caused him to let go of Adrian's suit, and the man managed to punch his cheek, but Malcolm shrugged it off, he had no strength to him, he relief too heavily on his wand. Malcolm dodged another fist aimed haphazardly at his head and threw one himself. Adrian barreled into him next, and Malcolm lost his footing, the pair of them a mess of flying fists and kicking legs as they tried to hit the other. Blood was dripping into his eye from a cut above his eyebrow he wasn't aware he had. Finally pinning the man under him, he pulled his fists back and hit him once, and again, and again, left and right, across the face, his hands well and bruised by now but he kept at it, barely feeling the kicks to his back and head, his anger too great, and much too focused*

Blair: *Hands at her sides, she lifted her chin and then didn't move. The truth was, she didn't care if he apologized: it would be disingenuous either way, and even if it wasn't she wasn't feeling all that forgiving. Not now, not on this morning, not as they neared the hour of an unjust execution. Heart leaping into her throat at the slap - she exclaimed, but didn't say a word, hand leaping to stifle another sound, palm flat on her mouth. At first not sure if she were stopping herself from further squeaks or if she was hiding a smirk, any amusement faded as she heard the insults rising. Breath suddenly scant - she didn't know what the man was referring to, why Malcolm would have two mothers, but it didn't matter, she hated Adrian all the more (a feat she thought impossible previously). And what mattered was the fact that both men were suddenly flying at each other.* Malcolm! *The chair gave a loud groan across the floor as a free flapping leg smacked it. Fists connected with thuds that echoed louder than her heartbeat, there was a smash of a lamp going over a table, and then a slam as they landed on the ground. There was no equality here: after a few cheap, early shots, Malcolm was pummeling Adrian. Nearly tripping as the rug beneath her was yanked up, Blair finally found her voice as she moved forward.* Malcolm -- wait he's -- he's unconscious! *At least she thought he was. In that instant, she was hoping he wasn't dead. God, if anyone had told her she'd have that thought a moment ago...*

Alysa: Brother! *None of the room's occupants had notice her enter, but she paid it no mind. A girl calling out her brother's name -- all right, a girl who wasn't Jane, not in ecstasy -- was a sound she didn't expect, want, or was capable of ignoring. Wide-eyed and breathless, she hurtled through the room to stop dead. Thud after thud of Malcolm's wrist painted Adrian's face red, and her heart dropped to her stomach seeing scarlet above her brother's eye and lip as well. It was hardly the first time she had seen her brother this angry, unlike the girl behind her, who looked close to vomiting. Heart pounding, Alysa first looked to Blair, and said in a snap,* Could you find Jane? *Steeling her jaw in her own fury and worry, Alysa was past Blair in a moment, had seized one of her brother's wrists and was damn close to hitting him herself. Whatever it was Adrian had said - and she was sure it was cruel, disgusting and awful - didn't matter. Of paramount importance to her was the fact that Malcolm not go to jail for murder.* Stop. Malcolm, stop. It's me, it's Alysa. *She could hear the door opening and flying footsteps as Blair went to find Jane. She was surprised that Jane hadn't sensed something was wrong, really, that her 'Malcolm sense' hadn't tingled. She wanted her there right that moment, really, wanting to find another way to take care of this. Today of all days...their father did not need this distraction -- God, why couldn't Adrian keep his damn mouth shut? And why couldn't her brother keep his hands to himself? Nearly thrown with the punch, as Malcolm hardly seemed to register his sister's presence, she hung onto his wrist for dear life and brought her other hand to his shoulder, fingers biting into his flesh hard. There was no anger in her voice, though, only a deadpan calm and steel sharpened by worry.* Malcolm. You're going to kill him. You need. To. Stop.

Malcolm: *Sound escaped him. He was dimly aware of the man under him having tried to box his ears, so it might have been from that, or it might have simply been from the fact that nothing else mattered. He didn't hear the crunches as his closed fists collided with jaw and nose and cheek. He didn't hear his own ragged and heavy breath as he exhaled in time with every hit. Malcolm only felt when it suddenly became that much harder to move an arm. Thinking he must be getting tired, or that he had actually got kicked in the shoulder much harder than he thought, he didn't realize it was his own sister until a flash of more discomfort than pain started again, making him look sideways. Sound seemed to return to him at that moment as well, hearing her words.* He should die, the little cocksucker-- *the rest of his insult was muttered and mumbled as logic seemed to seep back into him slowly. He jerked himself away from the floor, standing and shrugging Lysa's arms off, his glare still focused on the limp body of Adrian. His chest was still rising, he would be fine, no uglier than he already was.* He deserved no less. *He offered in mild explanation, not truly repentant for smashing his face in.* He's just lucky I didn't do good on my promise and smacked him with my sword all over court. *There was a voice, and that voice seemed to sound like his mother, that told him that the pile of shit lying on the floor there could and probably would press charges for assault. Malcolm swallowed dryly, still too angry to worry as he rubbed his hand over his ear, his ears hurting.*

Alysa: *She let him throw her off only because she had no choice - her brother was a lot stronger than she was, even when beaten bloody. Lysa also knew he was still in the throes of adrenaline. For now, she was glad. It would numb the pain of the blows Adrian had managed to land. Standing with only the briefest glance to the body on the floor -- he was breathing, she was sure he would be fine -- her attention focused on her brother. She let the remarks slide off her without care, breathing hard and ignoring the pain in her shoulder where he'd yanked.* Thank you for stopping. *The words were quiet. Her muscle groaned in protest as she massaged with her other hand, thumbs pressing hard to dull the pain as she kept her shoulder stiff.* Malcolm, whatever he said, you've already more than paid him back. I'm sure he deserved it, he's a bastard. *She said it without care, biting her lip.* But you're giving him legitimate grounds here, all right? And what would Dad say, anyway? Just breathe -- and would you let me look at the cut on your forehead? *Her gaze darted to it, jawline thin.*

Malcolm: *He shrugged again, feeling a bit thrown at her gratitude, not sure of how to respond to it so he simply spoke with the truth.* I'm not a murderer, I'm not one of them, the ones responsible for Karyn and Arthur's father being here in the first place. *He huffed, wiping at the blood above his eye annoyed as he grew aware of the way it dripped on his cheeks. He didn't need to tell her what their dad would say, Malcolm was perfectly aware that Alysa knew exactly the silent rage this would throw their father in. How he acted rashly, immaturely, foolishly, how he needed to accept responsibility, rein in his temper, and while he was at it, their dad might even add in a few "I'm disappointed" or if he was really angry, "I'm ashamed." One time he would like his father to get mad, to get really furious, it was a hell of a lot better than the cold anger he'd get. He exhaled, nodding stiffly at Alysa for her to look at the cut, knowing it was nothing compared to Adrian's injuries. It didn't give him the satisfaction he wanted, it never did.* It's nothing- he just fights dirty, badly and dirty. *Though that wasn't a surprise.*

Alysa: *Relieved as he let her step forward - she didn't want her brother to turn away from her, she couldn't handle that- she lifted a hand to crest against his cheek, thumb pressing to staunch the blood from dripping. A tiny sigh escaped her lips.* Oh, brother. *It really didn't look that bad - but then, she wasn't surprised, seeing as how he was a much more accomplished fighter - but either way she didn't like seeing her brother bleed. Sucking on her bottom lip as she reached for her wand, she murmured a quick spell, watching the cut disappear before her eyes. A proud smile crossed her lips - she wished, for a moment, that her mother could have seen, before realizing she didn't really want her mother to see Malcolm like this. Then she glanced at the floor, a sudden 'ah!' of pain leaving her lips as she realized she'd bitten down on her own soft flesh. Her hand fluttered from Malcolm's forehead, wiping blood off on her skirt without noticing with a few pats of her hands. She had no idea what she could do for Adrian -- and she didn't particularly want to wake him up. Breathing hard, she muttered,* Well, if we're lucky, you affected his memory and he won't remember. But if not, we need a plan, brother.

Malcolm: See? *He said again as he felt the wound close, an odd sensation, and wiped at the spot again to make sure he got all the blood away. He turned to look at the body on the floor again too, not really feeling generous enough to ask Lysa if she could at least mend his face.* No plan, I'll tell him myself I beat him bloody. What's our alternative? Let him find a way to use muggleborns as a scapegoat for this too? It's his own damn fault, him and that big mouth. The things he was saying to Blair- *he paused, only now realizing the other girl wasn't here. He frowned,* Where is she? You don't think she's telling anybody, is she?

Alysa: *She flinched - no doubt he would, no doubt Adrian would awaken and find a way to blame their mother - and rubbed her forehead. Holding her arms around herself as she lifted her gaze, and then shook her head.* I don't know I just -- I don't know Malcolm, with what Dad's dealing with I just don't think the best idea is to walk up to him and announce...*she let her eyes shut, quieting and then lit up remembering, shaking her head.* Oh. Well yes, with any luck. Not 'anybody', though. She left to find--

Jane: Me. *From the doorway, in such a state of dress it was abundantly obvious she had run. Not paying any attention to the body on the floor, she looked at Malcolm hard, breathing out unfazed. Her words were brief, matter-of-fact with each stride.* She was lucky she caught me, actually, I was going to spend the day with Rick. *Malcolm already knew that of course, but Lysa didn't. With what was happening at noon...there were two things: she could use the fact of her father's distraction to see Lucy and Rick, and she could also be there for them in case...well, exactly this. Adrian was not the only one gleeful in gruesome triumph today, and he wasn't the only one who would deserve to have his face smashed in. Rick was on his last little thread of self-restraint if anyone insulted Lucy. Apparently, he wasn't the only one. Heart pounding, she took Malcolm's hands looking at the bruises on them and murmured,* Oh my love. *There were bruises deep, his knuckles purple and black, blood staining his nails. She shook her head, before looking up in his eyes. Though she wanted to ask what he said, what Adrian had done, she didn't want to remind Malcolm of them: didn't want him to relive them and infuriate himself all over again. Narrowing her eyes a tad, she asked first,* I thought we had an agreement that I get to -see- whenever you get protective.

Alysa: Jane. *admonishing from where she's kneeling on the floor, attempting the same spell to marginal effects -- at least Adrian's face wasn't bleeding anymore.*

Jane: *She shrugs a shoulder. Her eyes have not left Malcolm's since she came in the room, and they don't now. Her voice drops a bit, much more seriously, eyes blazing,* You do know that I will absolutely loathe you if this behavior gets you killed someday, yes?

Malcolm: So what are we supposed to do, modify his memory? I'm not a liar, I'll take the damn responsibility. If Dad wants to cover it up, his decision, but I won't. *He could take responsibility for his actions, see? He huffed, pursing his lips and then turned his head suddenly as he heard Jane. He only started calming down right then. His hands had still been clenched into fists, but now they loosened to relaxation. Regretful that he had pulled Jane away from her day with Rick and Lucy, he nevertheless couldn't deny that he was glad, more than glad, to see her right then. His gaze didn't lift from her eyes even as she inspected his hands. They looked a lot worse than they felt, but that was still the adrenaline. His hands and everything else would hurt more tomorrow, and worse the second day.* Just when I get protective of you, sorry love. *His lips twitched briefly at Alysa's one worded reprimand.* It won't. If anything, it's the opposite. *His eyes briefly turned to glare at Adrian who was still unconscious.*

Jane: Damn. *That made it easy though: if it wasn't over her, then she knew precisely what Adrian had said, what she had suspected all along if she weren't allowing herself the tiny moment of vanity. Adelina had been insulted one too many times around her family; and where she and her husband practiced indifference, Malcolm had never been inclined to less passion when more was an option. She knew. She enjoyed that. Her lips quirked, saying lightly,* Next time for that, then. I'll never understand how it is you and your parents can be so different in this. *It was a tease though: for the stark differences, there were hundreds more tiny resemblances down to the way their lips moved between Malcolm and George. Briefly wondering if that meant they kissed the same, she wrinkled her nose and pushed the thought off. Still cupping his hands, she reached to cup his cheek, shaking her head.* Well, in that case, I'll be just as mad at you if you're in jail. And I won't come see you. *That was an absolutely absurd lie. Malcolm would know it too, because he knew her. She would go anywhere in the world with him, anywhere at all. If he went, she knew she'd follow.*

Alysa: *Loathing to touch Adrian at all, her hand hovers over the top of his head while she chews on her swollen lip. Great. She was going to kill her brother for this. Finally she lowers it to push his hair back, pointing her wand at the nastiest cut and siphoning blood off. She snorts hearing Jane and Malcolm, but couldn't deny the fact that she was heartened to hear the gentler tone in Malcolm's voice, the tease. Jane worked miracles; there was no other word for it. As she finished, she leaned back in her skirt and sighed, shaking her head.* No - of course not - I just - think we should wait until after noon to tell Dad.

Malcolm: Because I harbor my entire family's held back rage. *His reply was just as light, though he had often wondered the same thing. Not often, but sometimes, though soon he would think the thoughts traitorous and abandon them immediately. Smirking briefly as Jane attempted to be stern with him, he licked his lips and then sighed* Shame. Conjugal visits would have been the only thing to look forward to. *How he could say this standing over the unconscious body of Adrian Baudet, however, he didn't know.

Turning to Alysa again, he nodded, agreeing in that much at least.*

George: Too late.

#blair stone #jane brackner #alysa stuart #george stuart #malcolm stuart #adrian baudet #chapter twenty six #holy.fuck.#basically.#Q

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fycourtera · 12 years

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{chapter fourteen: 7} alysa & vlad

Vlad: *he led Alysa away from the dance floor as a jig started playing, shaking his head stubbornly at her last comment* --No, there are many things I'm willing to do, but dance to this? No I don't think so. *he chuckled and then turned back to her, still holding onto her arm as they reach the outskirts of the dance floor, a small smile on his lips, licking them once* I could be swayed, maybe.

Alysa: *her eyes (and lips) had gone wide as a spirited jig replaced the classical (a bit out of tune-she had noticed though she doubted most had; her father's ears had to be ringing at some of the notes the pianist had hit) music. Pink-cheeked, a curl bounced free as Vlad teasingly pulled her from the floor and she shook her head at him. Nerves had been drummed out of her with the insistent beat. Her breath was heavily lifting her chest, desperate to break free of its emerald-and-beige cage. The flush spread to paint her throat and the top of her chest a dusky rose. The state of her was highlighted by the winning smile; she was having the time of her life. Giggling at his statement without disentangling herself, her words were playful and relaxed.* Swayed? Vlad, if you're looking for me to bribe you, -*breath-* I should need to know the currency you value for I carry no -*gasp*- purse.*She winks now.* A handicap in our next game, perhaps? Maybe then you'll win.

Vlad: *he smirks now, shaking his head as she teases* One day I'm to be Lord of all of this, keep your galleons Lysa *winks as well and then his jaw drops, scoffing* Only because you cheat. *he grins and then promptly looks around to check for any male Stuart family members looking this way before he suggests, voice dropping in tone as his eyes trail over her flushed skin and back to her eyes* My price is a kiss.

Alysa: *She rolled her eyes at his first remark, lips flicking in amused exasperation* Oh, how many girls have you told that too? *Her gaze darted down as she realized she was still holding his arm and exactly how close they were. And all right, maybe she looked down so she didn't give away the little smile at his words. Looking back to say indignantly* I take offense to that. I just cheat better than you do. *sweetly, she suddenly stilled as he leaned in. Exhaling, she licked her bottom lip in a hesitant, quick flick but decided quickly: this time she would not analyze, nor over think. She asked herself only one question: did she want to kiss him? She smirked. Lifting their joined hands, she leaned down, grazing her lips over his knuckles, exhaling and kissing softly once. Then her eyes darted back up to his (flicking over his lips a heartbeat)* Or are you going to steal another one?

#chapter fourteen #alysa stuart #vlad faye #vlad x alysa #squuuueaaal #alydimir #book: the proclamation

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fycourtera · 12 years

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{chapter thirteen: 4} the party (vlad/emmett & alysa)

Emmett: There must be -someone- here that interests you, Vlad.

Vlad: Why are you so preoccupied with what tickles my fancy or doesn't?

Emmett: *repeats dryly* Tickles your fancy? *he smirks* Is this you being delicate again? Your euphemisms are astounding.

Vlad: Honestly, if I could have your head on a silver platter, I would. *eyebrows arch*

Emmett: *smirking still he laughs and then shakes his head, turning to the entrance as Malcolm and Alysa enter, his head tilting in appreciation* Very nice...

Vlad: *he had turned his attention to the entrance as Emmett made a comment, then again Emmett always made a comment because it wasn't like the man to keep his opinions to himself. But 'very nice' was an understatement, wholly inappropriate to describe Alysa. She was...stunning. Beautiful. Enchanting. He could barely keep his eyes away from her.*

Emmett: *looking back at Vlad, not really registering his interest* You're best friend's with her, aye? Set something up?

Vlad: Oh, piss off Emmett. *his eyes narrowed in sudden annoyance* She's your cousin's cousin. Isn't there some incest in there?

Emmett: *laughs* If there is, best not tell Jane and Malcolm.

Vlad: *Yes, they were both his cousins too. So, no, he supposed there wasn't anything morally wrong, but still-* Alysa deserves better, mate. Hard truth.

Emmett: *he chuckles amused, only just now catching on* Like who?

Vlad: *he bit his lip, taking a final sip of his glass and placing it atop a tray walking by* Excuse me, Emmett.

Emmett: *he snorts as Vlad walks away from him without answering his question and then shakes his head, turning instead to the group of ladies a few feet away and promptly smirks*

Vlad: *Walking up to Alysa, he had a genuine wide smile on his face as he stopped in front of her* M'lady. *he bowed, his eyebrows wiggling a bit as he did. Standing up straight once more, he spoke again, softly* You look stunning.

Alysa: *Her heart promptly leaped to her throat. Vlad was approaching her, a look on his face she had never seen before--though it more closely resembled the type of smirk she'd seen offered to his admirers, she thought it was gentler too. Her internal analysis of his smile did nothing to help with her breath (but that was the corset and older, more restricted dress, she told herself), offering a tight-lipped smile and praying her cheeks weren't red in response. As he bowed, her brow popped and she dipped in a soft, curtsy dutifully. Well, a half-curtsy. She didn't know what Vlad was doing, but it felt odd to curtsy to her best friend. Even if he was, she supposed, her future Lord. Grinning nervously but delighted to realize he had approached her instantly, she stubbornly held his gaze at the genuine compliment before saying with an honest chuckle* Thank you. *An awkward, anxious, nervous-heart-fluttering-in-her-stomach silence filled and certain she was blushing now as she kept her eyes on his she added hurriedly* You..don't look so bad yourself. *Then she winced. What kind of compliment was that? Toying with her skirt for a second, her gaze trailed over him very briefly-- no, he did not look that bad indeed--meeting his eyes a second or two later. Not enjoying the awkwardness--it was Vlad for Christ's sake!--she added teasingly, if a bit prying and anxious* What girl am I hiding you from now, Vlad?

Vlad: *Her smile seemed nervous as he walked up to her, a hint of pink tinting her cheeks. It did not deter him in the slightest, if anything it only encouraged him, his smile widening. The manners and propriety, they tended to be a bit of a game to him, really, but at that moment that wasn't their purpose. He simply wanted to treat Alysa like a lady, not just his best friend, although that would never change. As he stood straighter once more, his lips twitched in amusement at her half compliment of him, shrugging his shoulders before replying easily* Well, I try. *he chuckled, not at all bothered by it; he knew he looked good and while he did enjoy hearing it, there was no need to say it* You know, surprisingly enough I've been able to keep them off of me myself? *he teased, before he chuckled again and shook his head* No, I was rather hoping you would grant me the honor of this dance?

#vlad faye #chapter thirteen #emmett tissar #alysa stuart #book: the proclamation

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fycourtera · 12 years

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{chapter thirteen: 6} the party (alysa/malcolm & vlad/emmett)

Alysa: *Rosie and Helena had been weighing in on her gown choice for three weeks now via daily owls, yet no matter how many sketches she had sent them, Alysa was half convinced they had gotten it wrong after all. Her dress had a lacy, beige top that split more in a V than anything she had worn in her life, and an emerald skirt with gold embroidery. But maybe it was still wrong...oh, she gave up. The evening that stretched before them was fraught with political mines, yet all Alysa could think of as they walked there was wondering if Vlad really did not have an escort. This was a first, she thought, a ball she was not the person he would either grab to hide on his date, or the friend meant to distract others so he could slip off with them. And--oh, no, no, she'd told herself she was going to stop thinking about him, and she would. She was shivering in excitement; her mother had done her hair up, and without the curtain covering her neck, she felt uncommonly exposed. Yet excited. And as she looked sideways at Malcolm's expression, she was immediately calmed to see his thinly veiled annoyance. While she knew it would disappear by the time they arrived, she giggled and went on her toes to kiss his cheek* Take heart, brother. You can approach Jane at least, isn't that worth a smile?

Malcolm: *Oh bloody hell. He pulled at his tie, feeling as though the damn thing was getting tighter and tighter around his neck every second. Ties, were better suited for more enjoyable activities, in his opinion. That was a nice train of thought actually, as it led back to Jane. Though he couldn't linger too much there, naturally, otherwise he would have much more pressing concerns which he wouldn't be able to take care of. He exhaled, rolling his shoulders and cracking his neck: this was a battle, he would treat it as such. It was a shame he was not allowed his sword. At least Alysa was excited about it, and amused at his own behavior. His lips twitch as she kissed his cheek* It is. Then I remember I'm escorting my gorgeous sister in a beautiful dress to a room of excitable young lords and knights, and the smile quickly fades. *his lips twitch again in the slight tease before he bumped her shoulder with a smile* You look wonderful. And Vlad would be bigger idiot than I already believe he is if his jaw doesn't drop to the floor.

Emmett: *his gaze followed without shame as a ridiculously curvy lady walked by, rather off put by his friend's disinterest. He exhaled under his breath, his head tilted a bit, and he licked his lips. He turned to look at Vlad again and then shook his head in disbelief* I swear, Vlad. Successor to the title, or not, I -will- run my sword through you if you continue to deny these...*his gaze flickered again as yet another pair of ladies paraded in front of them, presenting themselves 'as offering' to their future Lord, no doubt. And this was after Vlad's popularity had decreased* ...lovely ladies.

Vlad: *his lips flicked in an amused smirk to know that he was still highly coveted, it pleased him to see so. He genuinely had no interest in them of course, but it pleased him no less. His friend beside him, however, he was most displeased with Vlad. He chuckled and shook his head* You could try, Emmett. *his eyebrows rose* And it's still, m'lord--

Emmett: Oh piss off, -m'lord-. *he laughed under his breath and shook his head*

Vlad: *he smirked still* That's not very knight-like of you, ser-in-training. In fact, that's a direct threat to your Lord. *his eyebrows rise* I could have you hanged for that.

Emmett: *he snorts*

Vlad: You're lucky I like you. *he teased before he took a sip of his wine, chuckling into his cup as Tasha winked at him* Emmett, think of it this way. *he clasped his friend's shoulder* By the end of the night, my rejection of them will leave some of them crying. And this shoulder right here *he patted Emmett's shoulder again* is your key to their hearts.

Emmett: *he scoffed, shrugging his hand off* It is not their hearts, I seek.

Vlad: *he smirked* Well, that too.

Alysa: *Her grin flicked wider as she adjusted her dress nervously again and she shook her head. Oh, honestly, brothers. Even Liam was insufferably protective, and she was nearly two years his senior. Yet it was a good feeling--warm anyways, to be so loved and have it declared. The compliment didn't hurt. But as he bumped her shoulder and mentioned Vlad she blushed, shaking her head instantly and holding a hand up.* No, no, you've got it wrong-- *Okay, he had it exactly right, but she was still wary of how he would act around Vlad now supposedly on her behalf.* --when did I say anything about trying to impress--actually, when did I say anything about Vlad? *Double-blinking, she cleared her throat and straightened her back as they came to the door adding in a simple mutter reluctantly* ...thank you. *Look, was it her fault if she wanted him to be right? What girl would not want someone's jaw to drop--who did not love being idolized and desired? Keeping her shoulders steady as they entered, her smile wide naturally, she took a few steps through. Oh, please let her blush have disappeared or lessened into a barely visible state so that it was feasibly considered non-existent. Please. Her parents were there--she focused on that for a second, brightening genuinely as she saw her father's pride with their entry, their mother's smile, she admitted a moment later this truly did nothing to help her blush. Her heart had skipped another beat, even as she turned to her brother. Through the entry way now she let go of his arm; adding teasingly* Remember, Dad said you have to dance with at least five people besides Jane...we both do. Though, can I dance with Jane too then? I did make Kitty save me a dance, assuming her fiancé does not mind. *She was determinedly not looking elsewhere, not thinking of anything else, trying not to remember she was standing in a ballroom, wearing silk and jewels. Above all she was trying to forget one name, which her brother had unhelpfully brought right back to the forefront of her mind again. Hence her reminder he had to dance with someone besides Jane. Retribution. It was a genuine business term: she saw no reason the Stuarts should be above it.*

Malcolm: *his eyebrows had remained arched as Alysa shuffled through half sentences and mumbles, and he only smiled at the end, chuckling* Please, Lysa. I'm your brother. Give me some credit. *He winked at her again before turning to the entrance. He inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly before stepping forward into the light, escorting his sister down the entryway. His gaze fell on Jane almost immediately and his smile appeared much more genuine. He loathed to break her gaze even for a moment but he could practically feel his parents' eyes on him and so turned his gaze towards them instead. He nodded briefly, pleased to see their pride, and continued looking forward. He breathed out easier when they were out of sight and then he quickly groaned at his sister's reminder* I know. *he paused and then asked teasingly* What, you're also being barred from dancing with Jane? Lysa, this infatuation you have with the girl I'm courting *--it felt pretty good to say it out loud and officially actually--* it has got to stop. But please *he quickly added* do, dance with her. If I see Robert within 10 feet of her, I will kill him. *Well, so much for propriety. Those words were not meant for this tie.* But I will go see her first, and not even father can tell me otherwise, so. If you'll excuse me sister. *He grinned and bowed playfully before walking towards Jane, ignoring the fact she was with her brother and cousin.*

Alysa: *The pride in her brother's voice as he said 'the girl I am courting' made her swell a moment: she was glad he had talked to Jane's parents for that alone. Though it made her bristle in aggravation to think of their obvious bigotry--and what it meant for Malcolm, due to their mother--she was proud to see him succeed however restricted, proud of his own pleasure with the fact, and maybe, forced to revise her not-so-sweet opinion of Garrett a bit. She did all of this internally, without her smile flicking of course. Her lips didn't twitch in amusement until her brother vows to kill Robert for even approaching Jane, when she said lightly* And so begins an evening of trumpeting burgeoning feelings of good will. *Her brow wiggles, but she squeezes his hand in genuine comfort and support before turning around.*

Jane: *She had merely chuckled -- in spite of herself -- at Frederick's statement, about to point out that all he had frankly advertised was his unwilling-to-commit nature there, when it occurred to her that was the point of the statement. A defensive rebuttal and assertion he was still utterly free to do what he wanted, and that he did, really....well it really only meant one thing. Her mouth opened, when it promptly shut again, delighted to see Malcolm was going straight to her regardless of the little look he exchanged with his father. Her look to Rick seemed to say 'We're not done yet', but she otherwise ignored this and excused herself from both of them to greet Malcolm joyfully, taking his hands and lifting her chin to better display the diamonds dangling from her ears to match those draped around her neck given to her from him for her birthday the previous evening (this gown was from her father, and just as a joke she had the scarf Leah had gotten her as well, though it was tied around her leg so no one could see it. Well, no one but--she smirked). Grinning at him, she teased* Hello--*and under her breath*--again, love. I would ask how it was you managed to slip in and out last night--well, this morning, in truth--but I wouldn't want to ruin the magic...

Malcolm: *At least he wouldn't have to deal with whatever snide remarks Frederick and Charles were sure to be making, for that much he was grateful. He reached Jane with a bright grin on his face, taking her hands and lacing their fingers together, pleased to see her wearing her birthday gifts and then chuckling at her whispered comment. He wiggled his eyebrows in a small smirk before he lifted a hand to his lips and kissed it, knowing anything else would have the hounds descending on him faster than he could say mercy. Except he wouldn't beg for mercy, it wasn't in him.* Hello to you too. *he grinned and then let a wink be an answer to her softly spoken addition. He had his ways and by now he was no stranger to sneaking in and out of places* You look beautiful, love. *he grinned softly, honest adoration in his eyes.* Absolutely stunning.

Jane: *Her eyes had darted to her father as he approached (and her mother appeared to promptly pull him into some other conversation) but she didn't know for certain. Malcolm was in front of her. Other things ceased to matter. For once she was unashamed of her soft blush as she laced her fingers through his after he kissed it. Why shouldn't she blush? Pink cheeks bespoke of innocence -- a lie, but an amusing one -- and delight, which was utterly true. It was the look in his eyes. The softness, the honest love--she felt she might tremble with its remarkable ability to lift her heart to sit at God's right hand. Giggling in an young-girlish fashion -- okay, this had to stop -- she just shook her head at him and said honestly* You look amazing yourself. So what I was scheming...*Leaning in, pretending to be fixing his tie, her breath ghosted across his cheeks and ear as she murmured her thoughts. "Thinking" was too innocent; it was a scheme. Truth be told, she wanted to get the uncomfortable forced-to-dance-with-others and even worse, watch-him-dance-with-others part of the evening over. And as a reward for their good behavior, she had a few proposals. Pulling back, now it was her wink, her blush and girlish giggles (thank merlin) replaced with a smirk.*

#vlad faye #emmett tissar #alysa stuart #malcolm stuart #chapter thirteen #book: the proclamation

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fycourtera · 13 years

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{chapter nine: 6} alysa & malcolm

Malcolm: *scratches his chin and then exhales exasperatedly as he taps his quill against the table.* I hate thiiiiis. *he rubs his face with his hands, pushing the parchment away from him, wondering idly if patience grew with time because there was no way he was going to be able to read documents like this for the rest of his life- what did the first paragraph even *mean*?! Looking up as he hears someone walk in he smiles as he sees Alysa* Sister, quick! I'm going mad *drops his head against the table theatrically, lifting it again and then tilts his head, looking at her curiously* Are you alright? Alysa: *With Liam's letter still rolled in her pocket, she had luckily ran in to her -mother- on her way to the council chambers and been able to pull her aside and give her the news; Mum promising to inform her father, and putting that in her mind at rest at least. She wasn't sure how she'd wound up at Malcolm's chambers; her feet seemed to just lead her there and she lit up at his grin, relieved by his tease and chuckling* How is knocking your head against solid wood going to improve matters? *her lips twitch at the practicality and then bites her bottom lip suddenly and nods instinctively* Yeah, fine--it--I just...*She really was no good at this. And Vlad would be in trouble and there was no reason he should be and just--instead, she quickly said* ..Liam sent me a letter. He is in detention. *exhales out* ...he hit a guy for insulting Mum. Malcolm: You speak logic, of which a madman has very little of. *he chuckles before standing up from the chair, happy to move around and not focus on the confusing words of politicians. Tilting his head in confusion, he suddenly frowns, angered and annoyed* So he gets detention for standing up for our mother, for our family? What does the other guy get? Victim status and a pat on the back? *scoffs, rolling his eyes* Lucky swords aren't allowed at Hogwarts, Liam would have cut him to ribbons. *nodding repeatedly, quite proud of Liam* Alysa: I know. *moving to stand next to him, leaning her back against the desk; she had her arms crossed against her chest and one hand was tugging very subtly on the loose lock of hair. It hadn't been loose an hour ago; it was pulled free it was thoughts of the one who had accidentally done so that left her tugging at it, even as she spoke quietly, a bit amused at his expression* I'm just glad Liam's okay. *she rubs her lips, still tugging on her hair, unaware she was doing it, just as she had as a little girl* And ...yeah proud too, I can't help it. Malcolm: Of course he's fine, he's Liam, he's a Stuart. *he nods determinedly, a small smirk on his face* almost feel sorry for the other guy. Almost. *lips twitch* You know, I think I'm going to go to Diagon Alley tomorrow, stop by the candy shop...*he trails off as he notices his sister isn't really paying attention to him, off in her own world or at least distracted by faraway thoughts* Whenever you feel like rejoining me, sister. *he jokes, sitting on the desk next to her, prodding her skirts with his foot* Alysa: *idly* Right, yeah, good. *Of course this was why, she realized as her gaze darted to his foot nudging her while her nose wrinkled, she usually stayed quiet. Particularly when she wasn't actually listening. Oh bother. Looking back up, she waited a moment and asked teasingly through a light blush* Did I go somewhere? Malcolm: *purses his lips together, half amused but half concerned before he nodded* Yes, somewhere far away, where I can't, almost no one can, follow you. *his lips twitch again before he turns more towards her, raising his chin and then trying again* You got something on your mind, apart from Liam, I mean. *pauses a moment before he grins* Wait a tick-- *he stands up, going behind his desk again and then tapping the wood with his wand in a pattern, opening the drawer that had appeared for him and drawing out a half finished bottle of firewhiskey and setting it in front of her* There we are. Consider this, my official bribe for your thoughts to be made vocal. Alysa: *Her gaze stayed locked on the bottle. She was forced to swallow as her mouth watered in anticipation, biting on her bottom lip hard. But she couldn't--she couldn't tell him this--was there even anything to tell anyway? And she didn't want him overreacting; he would, if she said Vlad kissed her, even though he had asked permission first--so she couldn't. Shouldn't. ...Or well. She thought a moment hard, and then reached over, picking the bottle up and saying lightly* I'm wondering when you first kissed Jane. *tapping the top of the bottle with a flourish* And if you always wanted to, despite being best friends. You know, when you weren't enemies. Malcolm: *eyebrows rising as her thoughts caught him by surprise. He certainly wasn't expecting that train of thought.* Think about me and Jane snogging often then? *he teased lightly before chuckling and standing up again, walking around his desk to lean against it, next to her* I kissed Jane our last year, last day at Hogwarts. We were fighting- I know, a shocker. *lips twitch* about keeping in touch out of Hogwarts, plus a variety of other things *waves his hand dismissively* And she turned to walk away and something just...clicked into place. Something that said "don't let her walk away....never let her go." *he shakes his head, a sheepish smile on his face for a brief moment before he continued* So I turned her around...and I kissed her. *grins* Half expected her to hit me, actually...I don't know exactly when I realized I had been wanting to kiss...but I did know since 3rd year I didn't want her kissing anybody else. Alysa: *with an easy tease, hardly having to think* Oh naturally brother you're central to my every thought. *her lips twitch and she exhales nodding--suddenly looking fiercely determined to hear his every word. Of course they'd been arguing. She giggled slightly and then nodded slowly; did she care if Vlad kissed someone else? (She tugged her hair again). Yes, all right, it was not something she liked thinking about--but she couldn't help her question* Even though you courted a lot of other girls in between third year and last? And why would she have hit you? *blinking in surprise* Malcolm: That's a bit alarming, Alysa *teasing still before he chuckles and shrugs* Well, I told her when she was with Roswell how much of a prick he was and she didn't listen so. *shrugs again* Was what I supposed to? Wallow in jealous misery? *snorts* Could you see me wallowing in general? *laughs once and then shakes his head* I was half trying to make her jealous. They never lasted long though because...damn, Jane set impossibly high standards. *lips twitch* Eva was close though...don't tell her that. *laughs once and then shrugs at her next question* I wasn't sure she wanted me to kiss her, I took a chance. It turned out to be right...you gonna take a drink or what? *motions to the bottle* Cuz I will. Alysa: But less alarming than if I didn't think about you at all, right? *both brows wiggle, entertained, and then chuckles again more genuinely * No, you wouldn't do well wallowing. Be a bit annoying. *His next assertion surprised her: she hadn't considered that. That wasn't the same then though, right? If Vlad wanted her to be jealous he wouldn't complain about them to her...maybe she, was overreacting to the entire thing. Maybe it wasn't such a big deal. Her smile softens at his last remark, decidedly taking a swig before.handing it over to him* Was it odd? Kissing your best friend? Malcolm: *lips twitch and nods* Exactly. *laughs, shaking his head* No, this face was not meant for moping. Though I'm touched you'd be of so much help if I were *sarcastic of course, before taking the bottle from her and taking a swig of his own, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, covering a small smile. He shook his head* No. It felt right. *lips twitch and then he asks* ...Alysa, what's this really about? Who's the guy? Alysa: *she laughs in surprise, but says sweetly* Aww...brother you know I'd be there if you really were upset. Probably tell you to have just kissed her though so see, my advice wasn't necessary. *Her heart skips a beat as he continues a softer smile crossing her lips: was that what felt warm? That it was right? Or was she jumbled up cause it was wrong? Course her thoughts froze as he continued and shook her head instantly* Nothing--I'm being silly, I'm... sure. Malcolm: Sure, to make fun of my tears *grinning as he pokes her shoulder* Thankfully, I can be quite self-sufficient. *he watched her quietly, curiously, now almost certain there was a guy involved: he recognized that kind of smile. The immediate rejection of the fact made that evident as well. He chuckled* Being silly is Rosie's thing, not yours. *grins* Fine, don't tell me who the guy is. I'll just have to start breaking kneecaps at random *teasing, wiggling his eyebrows* Come on, really. Why are you asking me all of this? Alysa: *incredulously amused* I wouldn't !! *is still giggling now and she shakes her head once more* Oh brother. *Licking her dry bottom lip a second her heart skipped again and she locked eyes with him before stealing another swig. It burned on its way down her throat: a welcome fire that admittedly did nothing to douse her confusion, but did much to relax her as she breathed out. Her words were pointed.* Don't break anyone's kneecaps. Please, it wasn't...there's no reason to; I'm fine. Malcolm: *his lips twitched as she took another swig, grabbing the bottle again and taking one of his own before he chuckles* I'll behave. I'm capable of that you know. *wiggles his eyebrows and then he pauses for a moment before asking again* Have you been thinking about kissing *your* best friend?...Because, Alysa, I think Kitty's waiting on a proposal. *grins* Alysa: I shall hold you to your word. *still pointed; her faze might be playful and amused but she's serious as well. rubbing her forehead a moment she grinned again and said lightly* Than Eli should get a move on as she has been waiting something like half her life. *she shakes her head saying softer* No...it...*looong moment and then admits sheepishly* Vlad. Malcolm: Oh, I have no doubt. *he nods, knowing that breaking kneecaps was secondary to making sure his little sister was alright. And right at that moment she was decidedly...off. He didn't know if it was a bad thing yet but she wasn't entirely herself.* Ah. *he should have guessed. Actually he might have guessed but he hadn't wanted to* You fancy him...? Alysa: *the question made her swallow again and she dropped her arms to shakes her head and shoulders in meager surrender and hopelessness* I don't know. Maybe? I just...I didn't expect...he's my best...he's *Vlad*- I don't think of him like that. *amends a moment softer* I haven't anyway. Before. But...maybe. *she rubs her forehead insistently, admitting internally it looked more like a wholehearted 'yes' than anything else* Malcolm: *pursing his lips together, he bit back a couple of comments about his cousin. It wasn't that he didn't love him, but right at that moment he loved and cared about his sister more. And Vlad wasn't exactly...without faults. Yet stating them wouldn't help matters, particularly given that he was sure Alysa was aware of them. Maybe ignoring them at the moment but aware* Wait before....what? What changed your mind or rather when did you notice...? Alysa: *She colors a darker shade a moment, cursing herself for saying the word 'before', still not particularly willing to admit to her brother what had happened. If it had happened. Maybe she'd dozed off and daydreamed. It was plausible--it had sort of felt a dream and she was very tired...* Nothing changed my mind. *she waited a moment and then said slowly* He'd just...been comforting me, I guess, when I got the letter and then I felt bad for making it such a serious conversation again because no one ever seems to just relax right now so then he started teasing me about saying I wasn't the type to fall for his tricks or something as a distraction and I had a feather in my hair from Liam's owl but I didn't believe him cause I thought that was a trick and he brushed it free and when he did I just started really....really disliking that he might have..looked at anyone else that way and thought why -shouldn't- he want to seduce me too, not that he did, or does!, just, why shouldn't he want me that way too and then I wondered if I wanted -him- that way and then he.. I started imagining what it'd be like to kiss him and...*shrugs a shoulder, looking back up* ...so I wanted to know how it was with Jane. Malcolm: *his brow pops as she blushes deep red, about to ask, politely demand, whichever, but she made sure to continue before his imagination got the worst of him. Pursing his lips together, he nodded along, not entirely convinced the feather in the hair wasn't a trick, he knew his cousin. He arched his eyebrows at the word "seduced"; was it really necessary to use that word? No one was going to seduce his little sister- where was that drink? He took a swig from it again as she finished, and then sighed* And I just presented a valid argument pro-kissing your best friend. *groans softly* Can I take it back? *teasing lightly for a moment before he licked his lips* Alysa, you're a hundred times better than the girls he does woo...and frankly, I think you're too good for him *nods once before he adds softer* But he'd be crazy not to want to. Alysa: *she waited a second as he drank, taking the moment to settle herself and rub her cheeks viciously a moment. There had to be a spell that could get her to stop blushing. Had to be. Otherwise she thought her cheeks might be in permanent danger of sucking necessary blood from other regions. Suppressing the urge to find her mother and ask if that were possible, she looked back and smiled at his first mutter* Well, you didn't seem to mind so much if it was Kitty I meant...*teasing, still breathless* Would you take it back if it had been? *she waited a long moment as he continued and found herself smiling softer while she nodded, even while she chided* You wouldn't think anyone was good enough. *smile flicks* But...thank you, brother. *frustrated tiny exhale* I don't...know... Malcolm: *chuckles* Well, Kitty's monogamous so she'd worry me less but...*his lips twitch, shrugging his shoulders exaggeratedly and then grinned sheepishly* Guilty. *he smiles and then offers her the bottle again* First step is finding out if he feels the same way...*grins brightly, half teasing* Shall I wring it from him? Alysa: Very monogamous. *tiny chuckle through her own sheepish grin* As she's really been with the same person since she was thirteen, even if it wasn't official til a few years later. I'm jealous truly. *her lips flick up as she takes the bottle from him and then blinks, exhaling in shock* No, no--no; if you say a word to him Malcolm he'll..I mean it...no! Malcolm: *immediately* okay, okay, calm down now. Don't get your knickers in a twist. *lips twitch* I won't interfere...but I do want to hit. *nods immediately* And if you decide you just want to be friends, tell him you don't appreciate his wooing tricks. Or I will. *snorts* Besides they're not that impressive anyways. *shrugs and then adds* I'm not saying to should snog him and find out, in fact I oppose it but you're gonna drive yourself mad wondering and contrary to what I did before, hitting your head against the wood table doesn't work. Alysa: *leaning over and poking him* My knickers are not in a twist: you'd scare him even if he -does-...you know, fancy...*clears throat and prods him again* . Or if he doesn't-*poke*-care then he could be rebellious and try something he doesn't really want or *poke* worst of all *poke* he could just laugh and think it's silly. Which it is. I mean. *dropping her finger, still pink* It is silly. I need to breathe. *looong intake and then exhale, waiting for a moment and then saying tentatively* ...but what if I did, enjoy his wooing tricks? Malcolm: *mutters oww and then rubs the spot she had been repeatedly poking* Alright, you've made your point. *frowns* Sounds like you value your friends hip more...that and you're scared. It's not silly, stop saying that. You fancy your best friend- *raises his hand and waves it* It happens. *nodding and then pauses, pursing his lips together and sighs in defeat* Nothing wrong with that. But if he's just playing around, Alysa, I reserve the right to take everything I said back and break kneecaps. Alysa: *apologetic at his muttered ow she leans over again to rub the spot a second saying softer* Sorry. *she bristles a moment, wanting instantly to deny-deny-deny, but it falls off as he keeps going and says a bit quieter* Yeah, all right. *still leaning against the desk next to him, she rests her head on his shoulder* Though for the record...I don't need my big brother to save me. *exhale* Just be there for me. *she waits a moment, very comfortable and furrows her brows saying in a different voice* So you've been seeing Jane nearly nine months? *blink, her question slow* ...are you ever going to approach Garrett? Not for marriage just..how is it still a...well not secret....but. *blinking, except she's still heartened* ..though really considering how much you argue still it's...pretty impressive. You're happy? Malcolm: *he smiles softly, wrapping an arm around her shoulders* I think I can do both, to be fair. *lips twitch* I'm always here for you sis, you know that. *he remains silent with her, unbothered by it. They might all prefer to talk, but they were their parents' children, and silence could be just fine. Blinking repeatedly, he chuckled under his breath as he agreed in surprise* Yeah, we have...*his lips twitch in his small smile right until she mention s Garrett. He sighs* It wasn't my intention to keep it secret...I *was* going to approach him. Then the proclamation passed and he was so vocally opposing it...wouldn't have been surprised if he forbade it only because of mum. And then Jane would have disobeyed him...I would like to think anyways. *shrugs * Jane's been torn up about her family for months now, I don't want to make things worse. *nodding before he turns to look at Alysa again, smiling* I am happy. The happiest I've ever been. Things could be better, obviously, but....*smiles again and shrugs* we like arguing. Alysa: *nods absently against his shoulder, comforted by the gentle grasp of his arm around her and waiting quietly for his answer. She bit her bottom lip, speaking softly* Right. Well...I don't envy you. Garrett is not...my favorite person in the world, from the small encounters I've even had with him. But I know Jane loves her father as we do ours and well, Dad isn't gonna like anyone I see either...so I guess I don't blame really anyone involved. Well okay, I blamed Garrett's stubborn predilection to holding with bigoted ancient policies--but I think it's fair to hate things that are stupid. *she exhales and shakes her head* But I'm glad in spite of all that you guys have each other and that you're happy. *lips flick* Even if you do argue all the time. *teasingly* I wonder why that makes you oh-so-happy really... Malcolm: *chuckles and then admits quietly* He's not my favorite either. That's...an understatement. *rolls his eyes and then shrugs before he laughs* That's true. You know, sometimes I think he's still difficult with uncle Andre on purpose. *grins and then nods in agreement, sighing* Yes well...we have to have hope that will change. In the mean time, not talking to him. *shakes his head before he smirks briefly* not all the time. Obviously. *wiggles his eyebrows and then laughs* Oh you know how I like to sharpen my wit from time to time. Alysa: Right. *swallows and says teasingly* Well, I'm told understatements are more polite. And...I hope it does change. If only cause I'm selfishly biased here on yours and Jane's behalf..*pause and then with a wicked grin* Now would you have an issue if it was -Jane- I had asked about? She's monogamous too...*chuckling as well and nods* Oh definitely. At least he's a good sport about it...remember that Christmas where he conveniently forgot to tell the new servant Aunt Leanne -had- a family she was coming with and they didn't believe he even was our uncle? *giggling* Aunt Leanne looked ready to kill Dad but Uncle Andre was perfectly gracious. *lips twitch* ...Sharpen wit. Yeah. Sure. That's why it's enj--pleasurable, I should say, yeah? Malcolm: Oh, infinitely so. Otherwise I'd have some choice adjectives and nouns. *scoffs once, shaking his head and then laughs* Of course I'd mind- she's mine, sister. And I would not graciously bow out *wiggles his eyebrows before he laughs again* That was brilliant. "Slipped his mind" dad said. A perfect excuse...if it wasn't father who'd said it. But I think that's simply how they bond, really. *he pauses a moment before he smirks* Why else? *winks* Alysa: Which while satisfying to say, probably wouldn't win you the respect of the man whose first-born biologically speaking daughter you're wooing. *nodding* And ...sharpening your wit with. *wiggling her eyebrows through her nonchalant rebuttal and then chuckles in surprise and delight* Oh yours, is she? And what would Jane say hearing you act as if she's a trophy? *she keeps laughing at the memory and nods along with their father's words* Mmm...probably. Is it a men thing? He never gave Aunt Ellen such a hard time..*tiny pause and said fairly* Course he did give uncle Ollie one. Or..a hundred. *giggle and then arches her brow saying playfully* Why, I'm your little sister, how could I know about such things? Malcolm: *sighs, nodding as well, his amusement with her last addition showing as he grinned for a moment before commenting* Exactly. So mute on this subject I've become. Mostly. *ponders that for a brief moment, his imagination getting the best of him before he simply laughs* Oh, we'd...argue. *nods, knowing very well it might start that way and then he shrugs* Probably yeah. Brother thing too- giving Liam a hard time is my job. Except for today. Today, he's getting sweets. And a nice note attached: "Well done. Malcolm." *grins and then nods seriously* Exactly, good. That was the right answer, you passed. Alysa: You? Mute? *grinning wide and decidedly teasing instead* Mum and Dad would be so proud! *He probably thought of this seriously enough, really. As she watched his expression with the brief silence she lifted her head from his shoulder in amused disapproval* Argue. Yes, apparently. *pokes his cheek, saying sweetly* I should not tell her then, that you said that, wouldn't want you to..argue because of me. *shaking her head as she continues she laughs once at the note* Oh charming. Very encouraging, of his violent action, brilliant. *with equal obvious pride and then she grins again* Ahh. I see. A test. Well don't worry, I have no experience--*tiniest pause and adds in one breath* beyond a snog. *quickly* You on the other hand...

#chapter nine #alysa stuart #malcolm stuart #stuart siblings ftw #book: the proclamation

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fycourtera · 13 years

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{chapter nine: 4} alysa & vlad

Alysa: *That was strange. It looked like an owl..but owls would go to Lord Damocles, not her in the library. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear her gaze darting over Vlad's shoulder where they sat playing a card game (she'd tell you the rules but they only made sense to her and Vlad, and frequently not even to them). Drawing the corner of her lip in and biting down hard, she checked again and then went still. She had not been mistaken: that was an owl, one she recognized.* ..Liam? *It wasn't like her to exclaim, but with everything going on, if her little brother was sending a message...* Hold on. *she flicked an apologetic look at her friend and hopped up, going to the window and ignoring her cards as she let the little bird in. Thanking it with all the grace of her mother, she fluffed it's head down speaking to Vlad quickly* You don't have a treat do you? This little guy looks like he had a hell of a flight...*she slips the hastily written letter free as she spoke; her head shook in exasperation. In his haste, Liam (and it appeared Rosie had made A fair few comments as well) had not even sealed it properly* Vladimir: *laying down two cards, one face up and the other face down, he picked up one from the discard pile* Ha! Triple Inquisition! *nodding and then he looked up as Alysa spoke her brother's name outloud. Puzzled, he looked around, half-expecting to see Liam, maybe even Rosie and Helena in tow (as they were never too far away) though instead he only saw an owl. Standing up as well, but not before sneaking a peek at Alysa's cards, he walked over to the window, a small smile on his face as he saw the way Lysa petted the owl- she was always good with animals, whereas Vlad was kicked out of Care of Magical Creatures and told to pick another elective* I...might have something, yeah- *he patted his pockets, searching and then took out a biscuit he had been saving for later, breaking off a piece and handing it to the owl* Hey! Ow- *he muttered something about bloody birds as he shook the finger the owl had pecked, in a not at all kind manner, before turning to look at Alysa* What happened with Liam? Alysa: *her eyes jumped up as he exclaimed, nose wrinkly in amused sympathy at his motion. She waited a moment before saying pointedly instead* They agree--it's only a double inquisition. *Nonsense: there was no such thing in their game, but she was adding it now. However as she looked back down her genial smile disappeared. Clapping a hand to her mouth, incredulity creasing her eyebrows above wide eyes, she exhaled her brothers name and reread the hasty remarks twice before lowering it* ...some bloody--actually I bet I know who, I bet it was that Estbury whose been bothering them--they..Liam heard him call my mother a...*Her voice died off. Then she just handed the parchment to him, saying primly* My father would not me repeating that. *She waits a second for him to read it.* Liam assaulted him. *bites bottom lip*...looks like Nicholas held Helena and Rosie back too. ...as a first offense they're just...detention...but they're writing to my parents... Vladimir: Double inquisitio- *he looks back at his cards to check before he realizes a moment later* Hang on-- you just made that up! *his lips twitch in amusement before his lips pursed together, his brows furrowing and then looking at Alysa in concern. He took the letter from her, but he could already gather the type of insult that would be written there. Vlad was surprised the quill hadnt poked a hole through the parchment with how hastily and furiously the word had been written. He shook his head* Tosser. *he handed the letter back to Alysa* I hope Liam got him good then. *nods* ...well, your parents won't punish him will they? Detention is bad enough. Alysa: *had simply grinned at his initial accusation, as if to both acknowledge and say "who me?" at the same time, lowering the parchment as he spoke. Her mind was racing: agreement with his insult followed by mutual approval and distaste for violence. At the last remark she simply shrugged a shoulder very slowly* I don't...*legitimately bites her tongue and purses her lips* I don't think they would actually punish but they...don't actually need to. *tiny shudder* Papa's disappointment is worse. *nose wrinkles again as she internally cringes in sympathy* Followed by them pointing out hitting people isn't going to change anyone's mind...oh Liam...*rubs her forehead* I don't understand why they all...hate her. Vladimir: *licks his lips and then nods sympathetically, shuffling his feet as he sighs* No, but it lets people know you're not to be trifled with. *nods once but his face softens in sympathy, his lips pressing together, wondering what he could say to make her feel better* It's just what they were taught. To blindly believe, absent reason...*adds his tone firm and sure* It'll change. Alysa: *Her head tilts as she considers that with a small smile. Absent her mind, she knew her heart had soared in agreement; she ignored logic a moment to say fervently* Feels damn good too. *A light flush on her cheeks, she leans against the window. Averting her eyes and gently smoothing the ruffled feathers on the disgruntled owl she waited a moment before responding without looking up* How? Any action I take to force reason however benign into their heads makes them resentful, appeasement makes them ask for more, violence vindicates them, abstinence outright engenders...atrocities. *looks back up* Or more plainly: I lose before I begin to fight it. I'm screwed. *head shakes and says a bit stronger* I just look at what they say sometimes and it's like...what planet are you living on? Arguing with you is like arguing with a pattern on a chair. Frustrating, ignorant, and pointless. Vladimir: *grins a little, tilting his head before he nods* That too. *some people just needed to get hit, in his very honest opinion. But, as his parents frequently reminded, patient was key. Vlad had little of it, but he made due. Pursing his lips together, he hated to admit that everything she said was right, that it was like fighting a losing battle. Shrugging once, he stood taller and then said simply, stubbornly* Somehow. I don't know how yet, but somehow. It'll get better, cuz that's what were fighting for and we're not gonna stop fighting, are we? If we can't argue with the pattern, then we'll just have to unravel it thread by thread and make a pattern of our own. *nods again* Alysa: *Lifting her head at his words she found herself nodding and heartened, a grin spreading across her lips slowly* I like that. *Skin pinker, her words were still stronger in contrast* Unraveling the pattern. That really is what's...going on, unraveling the fabric of society. *chuckling once brighter* If we're going to be poetic. Thanks. *clearing her throat* Didn't mean to get so...weighted. *ruffling her hair* It's too easy to do right now. Vladimir: *his grin turns sheepish for a bit, he shrugs again, undeniably proud that Alysa agrees before he sighs* Right, well, unfortunately I don't know how to sow, so might have to get someone else to direct the operation. *lips twitch a moment and then he smiles easily* It's alright. What are friends for, if you can't talk to them, right? *shrugs* Everything seems rather weighted now anyways. Alysa: *chuckling, she held both hands up instantly* Oh don't ask me to sew. I mean I can of course, but good Lord is it monotonous. I envy your combat training. *lips flicking up* And Leah's ability with a sword. I can barely lift one. *exhales and then a little pleased and smug*... I am a fair shot though. *winks at him and then simply nods, coloring a bit more* Right, well, ....friends -*clearthroat*-also can take your mind off it, yeah? Vladimir: *chuckles as well, immediately shaking his head* Oh no, wouldn't dream of it. I've learned my lesson- asking most of the women and girls I know to sow has always had me walking away with a bruise on my ego or my shoulder *lips twitch and then he grins* I know. Shoot a target from...what was it, a hundred paces? *his lips twitch, tilting his head in slight curiosity, unable to help his mind from wandering at the mention of a distraction. Grinning cheekily, he teased* Oh? Mind off it, is it? I do know a couple of distractions, though Lysa, I never took you for the type *wiggles his eyebrows* Alysa: *It was true; most at court were revolting in some way and if the divides between muggleborn supporters and pureblood..."loyalists" were the most prevalent and violent there was no lack of smaller quiet rebellions either. There was tension to do with the roles of woman, between the Church and new technology, the old traditional generation and the new rising young adults. Even healing; Church and medicine. Her mother's determination to distribute contraceptives came to mind. Clearing her throat again she spoke lighter,* Well you know, Leah would probably love to sew if it meant re-embroidering the entire culture. *at his last remark she colored visibly but leaned over to whack him anyways* Oh you jus--*she shakes her head, fixing her hair again* Go on, try me then. Vladimir: *Vlad snorted once, shaking his head before he laughed, simply imagining his cousin, the newly anointed and first female knight, sewing anything* The only reason Leah would pick up sewing needles would be to sharpen them and aim them at somebody's head. *He wouldn't say that too loudly though, wouldn't want anyone to get ideas. The last thing they needed was to find unsuspecting victims with eyes that had been skewered by a well thrown needle. Grinning in delight as she whacked him, he laughed once, pursing his lips together and then shakes his head, grinning again* Oh you wouldn't fall for my tricks...*lips twitch* You've got a feather in your hair, Lys. Alysa: *She laughs once at the suggestion, even knowing it wasn't really a joke. Leah would not hesitate. Lips twitching a moment, she asked politely* Yeah...and how has training been with her on the field? I have only heard rumors. *Tilting her head and lifting her self to rest against the book shelf, she paused brows furrowing in confusion* ...your tri--*her eyes roll to the ceiling. And usually she did such a good job simply not thinking about this. Of course it was harder when he was in...front of her bringing it up. Her eyes snapped back to his.* A fea--*her hand half raised and then lowered once more* ...that a trick? Vladimir: *lips twitched as he recalled training and then he grinned* Well, she was eager to prove herself, and I don't think Emmett will ever be the same again. *grins* Deserved it though, he needed to be brought down from his false pedestal *nodding seriously before he grinned again as she raised a hand to her hair for a moment and then chuckled, shaking his head he waited a moment before taking a couple of steps closer to her, raising his own hand to her hair, passing his fingers through the long locks and then nonverbally summoning a feather, smiling lightly as he brushes it off her hair and brings it down with his fingers, showing her the feather* No, it wasn't. *his lips twitch* Alysa: Oh Leah. *her head shook from side to side; in truth she was a bit intimidated by her, but she admired her all the same.* I have no doubt Emmett did, yeah. Wish I'd seen. *All thoughts of training however, disappeared as he stepped closer. Breathing suddenly heavy, she forced a tense chuckle through thick lips half parted. Unaware if it was eons or a moment before he held the feather, she pushed his shoulder anyway without any real effort and shook her head laughing again* You just summoned that! Vlad. I would have felt that. My hair isn't that thick. Vladimir: *he laughed and nodded in agreement. His cousin could be particular ruthless. He of course meant it as a compliment. He licked his lips, a small smirk now on them as he saw Lysa tense up under his touch, laughing once incredulously as she pushed him away, stepping back* I would never! Wordlessly and wandlessly summon a feather? *chuckles and then adds easily* Thank you for thinking me that smooth, though. Alysa: *rubbing her cheeks, the words come out through squished lips and a face resembling a disgruntled child* Wasn't a compliment. *rubs her lips and then drops her hands, eyes narrowed at him in playful petulance still* You absolutely would and you have no shame and you're terrible. *pokes his shoulder, still not moving away* And you're right. *decidedly nodding* I would never fall for those tricks. Vladimir: Of course it wasn't *lips twitching before he grins wide, laughing as she begins to reprimand him, that being familiar at least- not that he was objecting to the blush upon her cheek of course. Laughing again, he wiggles his eyebrows before he sighs* you're right, I'm a wicked person. *he takes her hands in his, looking at her eyes and asking softly* Can you find it in your heart to forgive me? Alysa: *Her gaze darts down to his hands holding hers. Going perfectly still she said nothing for a few moments before glancing up, hastily quelling a surge of something akin to alarm and delight at once. A brow arched with her response,* Certainly, if it felt less as though you were trying seduction techniques on me first as a test. *Her lips twitched, only squeezing his hands, and lifting herself a little closer to him* Should I flutter and sigh now, Lord Faye? Vladimir: *his lips twitch despite his attempt to remain unamused- he couldn't help it, it was amusing, not only that but also...well, he didn't know how to describe it, but he enjoyed it-- being able to affect her this way. For some reason, he hadn't ever considered he could...probably for the same reason he hadn't noticed until very recently how attractive she was. Subconsciously, he licked his lips as she steps closer, lips twitching again* Only if it pleases you, m'lady. Alysa: *Gaze darting to his lips as he licks them she blinks, then blinks again, then blinks a third time. She felt suddenly very young: yes, she was only sixteen, but it was often joked she was born middle-aged (apparently in good company with her father there) and she wasn't sure what suddenly was making her feel so girlish and young. This was just Vlad. Being..Vlad. Tilting her head as her gaze darted back up she suppressed a giggle at his words, finding ...something, highly amusing in them* But you want me to, don't you? Why? *curious, not noticing her fingers lacing with his* What is so attractive about an overwhelmed damsel? Vladimir: *he tilted his head, a small grin on his face, unable to deny the truth of her words. Yes, he wanted her to. Superficially, he could say that it was simply because he was...well, Vladimir Faye, he wanted all women to swoon at the mere sight of him. But that wasn't particularly true, not at that moment, he'd never cared about eliciting a reaction from Alysa, she was his best friend. A best friend he was imagining snogging now. Dear lord. Shrugging, licking his lips again before he tried to explain as casually as he could* Normally strong women, weak at the knees over the slightest touch, blushing over a simple whisper...lips parted, breath heavy, pupils dilated...*he licked his lips yet again, squeezing her hands and taking a small step towards her* It's one of the most alluring sights I've ever seen. Alysa: *Her fault for asking the question. His words were prophetic, as she realized her breath was heavy, her lips still parted, her cheeks still the color of dusky rose (but her knees were not weak, they were not, and her pupils could she see them were not going to dilate and whatever was tap dancing in her chest cavity just had to cease and desist). They were prophetic, aggravatingly so, and she couldn't figure out what was so...so...to use his word then as her brain decided to take a holiday, -alluring- over hearing it described aloud. Not noticing he'd even moved in, she suppressed another chuckle though still nothing was funny and mused aloud* So really, it isn't the lady's reaction at all, it's your ability to elicit it...*her head tilting, eyes still locked on his* ...so it's your prowess that's so alluring. *her head straightens, delighted, teasing as she was calmed by her own logic, despite the fact it didn't ring quite true even to her* You're attracted to yourself. Vladimir: *He didn't know why he expected anything less than a directly opposing comment. Maybe for a moment he had forgotten everything except for the fact that they were standing close to each other, chests nearly touching, lips parted, hers in particular but maybe he just noticed it more because they were so full. But it wasn't only a pair of attractive lips in front of him, it was Alysa, his Lys, and she always had to tease and make things difficult on him. He chuckled, his breath hitting her lips as he shook his head slowly* No. It's a bit of an ego boost, yes, but it's the woman...entirely. *his eyes trailed over her face, her features, before looking back in her eyes* Besides, isn't it an ego boost to a woman, that she could so reduce a man to his primal instincts? Alysa: *She should move she thought, or half thought--since when did her mind forget to exist based on Vlad's proximity? She should, this game (it was a game, right?) was affecting her too much, she was overwhelmed exactly as he described and just as she thought she had enough willpower to brave his insults for backing out first he spoke. And his breath, hot, struck her lips. Entirely distracted, they part further, as if to suck in his gift of air to replace her own suddenly lackluster efforts.* You would think. *Right, air had to be behind words for him to hear them. She repeated it louder, wondering how close he was--their noses were near touching now she thought, she'd lost track of their joined hands...* But it depends on the primal instinct and in particular ho--how forward they are at revealing it because the way some men look at you it's disgusting much more than an ego boost and...a-and yeah. *Her tongue suddenly felt very heavy and slow, and she heard herself ask from as if very far away, her breath against his lips too now* Vlad...what are you doing? Vladimir: *he nodded absently, not too sure what he was agreeing with anymore- something about disgusting males, a category he hoped she wasn't including him in. Actually, now he was curious* And what about me? *he bit his lip for a moment and then paused at her question, finding it both sobering and...decidedly not. Sobering because he realized what he was doing, not because he didn't pull away* I'm trying to kiss you. *he whispered very honestly against her lips* May I? Alysa: *His first question had a curious paralyzing effect; on the one hand she'd never thought about him that way and on the other of -course- she'd thought about him that way--and it was all so very jumbled up in her head she couldn't think what to say. She only barely realized she'd shaken her head; no he wasn't one of them, never, of course not, he was...he was Vlad, that was all. A sudden fire told her their joined hands had drifted to her waist finger tips brushing against her skirts, and she squeezed his hand again, not sure if she wanted to plant his hand on her or make him stop. Paralysis could be summed up in the simple choice: run away from the flames like a smart coward, or throw yourself in the inferno as a...* Vlad...*His name sounded odd suddenly; it was tender and wary leaving her lips. She thought she should ask why--should just pull away really, but yet again heard herself answer before she'd thought it through logically* I suppose.... *She breathed out, eyes shutting* I mean. *And he was so bloody smooth at this too wasn't he?* Yes, I'd like you to kiss me. Vladimir: *the possibility of rejection was never one that Vlad considered too frequently. Whether by confidence, or habit, or both, he simply assumed that most girls would want to kiss him. That was until now, until he saw the hesitance in her eyes. That made Vlad a little nervous, not knowing the answer, wondering briefly when he had grown to be the type that got nervous. Why should he care so much for a simple kiss? It was just a kiss...wasn't it?* You suppose. *he repeated quietly, half amused and half unsure of whether or not she meant that. Searching her gaze, he untangled a hand from hers, bringing it to cup her face, stroking the line of her jaw with his fingers. Licking his lips one more time, he leaned in, closing the distance between them as he captures her lips with his in a soft kiss* Alysa: *She seemed not to breathe until his lips touched hers--which was odd, incongruent, because technically now she couldn't breathe as obviously there was a very physical literal obstruction. It didn't make sense. This didn't make sense. Vlad was..how many girls had he kissed? And done more than that with--she prided herself on her intelligence, she wasn't naive about these things; while sure ninety percent of the rumors were just that and she hoped she knew her friend better than that but...not all of them were tales. The reputation came from somewhere. And he hadn't ever looked at her like this and why should he, she was just Lys to him, the little girl he'd known from childhood and she didn't even want him to--right? She thought? Bu---It seemed to strike her very suddenly that sometime during her internal monologue she'd lifted a hand to his neck, tilted her head into his palm, tentatively started moving her lips under his (how did she even know what to do?) in a gentle, soft motion before pulling back and let her eyes flutter open. She just Looked at him a moment, a small and very honest smile crossing her lips. She felt suddenly weightless, breathless, speechless--but all the "less" was incongruent too. She felt more. Far more something unnameable, confusing, but something wonderful too. A breathless giggle escaped her still parted lips before she spoke softly* ...well. Now I get what all the fuss is about. *with a light tease* I suppose. Vladimir: *He didn't want to pressure her, or her scare her, and suddenly, for a split moment, felt as if he were an inexperienced 11 year old again with the way his heart seemed to want to hammer out of his chest. He didn't expect to enjoy kissing her that much, the same way he hadn't expected her to kiss back so promptly- he enjoyed it. His lips guided hers, moving against hers, paying particular attention to her bottom lip. Pulling back when she did, he found a small smile of his own matched hers, chuckling at her tease, a bit relieved by it as he half expected her to run out. But who was he kidding? This was Lys, and he'd never known her to run out on...anything, really. He liked that about her.* Kissing in general or kissing me? *he teased back, his hands still at her waist and cheek, loathing to move* Alysa: *Her heart seemed not to want to be in her body any more. It was as though it thought it knew another person it would be more comfortable with. And Alysa had the strangest feeling it didn't have to go very far to find it's home. The thought made her warm. But she didn't understand the rules of this game any more than others would get their card game, and she felt suddenly very fluttery and nervous and scared if she misstepped she would lose something a lot more more precious to her than a card game. The hammering in her chest shot a jolt through her; the ghost of some feeling tying around her tongue and she teased back breathlessly, reflexive* Well as I've never kissed anyone else, how do I know? Vladimir: *Huh. That was an odd...and not fully pleasant feeling. The mere thought, the mere suggestion, of Alysa kissing someone else had dropped what felt like a two ton weight into the pit of his stomach. He had a sudden urge to hit a stone wall. Was this jealousy? He had never been jealous before, he always got what he wanted, it was always the best...this was immensely odd* Well...if it was better than you expected *he teased lightly, though he was still not moving away* then it probably has something to do with me, naturally. *lips twitch before he clears his throat, unsure of what to do next* Should probably...go find your parents- Liam's letter *he nodded again* Alysa: *Her laughter itself was nervous she realized: she was giggling genuinely but also at a lack of knowing what to do. His tease made her feel a little better: this was Vlad, still just Vlad, nothing had changed (what was wrong with her?). She nodded absently, saying lightly* Sounds logical. *Actually none of this was logical, her brain still was working through molasses, but she knew instinctively something had happened. Something special, and something unique to them, to him. Clearing her throat at his suggestion even as it felt like a weight settled in her heart she nodded, feeling oddly dismissed. That made even less sense. Vlad was right: she had to find her parents. Except she had urge to find Malcolm. Or Kitty, actually, as she didn't fancy protective-older-brother instincts if she told him. (Or maybe she did? Maybe that was why she felt she needed her brother?)* Right. The letter. *Her lips were dry, saying cautiously but hoping it was offhand* I think my father's with yours though...I probably should...wait til that's over... Vladimir: Logical...*he grinned a bit, tilting his head before he teased* "And not full of myself" Vlad logic? *that was what she claimed he possessed most of the time, which he had to admit was right most of the time too. Clearing his throat, he nodded, having forgotten they were in a council meeting* Oh. Right. *pauses a moment and then grins again, licking his lips and then teasing again, or half teasing actually* Fancy a bit more snogging to pass the time then? Alysa: Oh no, it's definitely Vlad logic. *nodding, relaxed by the tease and lets out a soft chuckle; despite a sudden swell of something she thought she could only describe as "yes-please" she straightens up instantly, saying reflexively again* As is that. *biting her lip subtly though she doesn't move away either. Cautiously, she can't help but ask nervously if teasingly* Isn't that what all the other girls say yes to though and then you come complain to me about how boring they are? Vladimir: *grins and shrugs his shoulders* Well, nothing wrong with that though. *his lips twitch but then he frowns a moment, realizing why she was asking and then actually feeling rather awkward. A tad ashamed, which was preposterous cuz he didn't have anything to be ashamed of, not really. Licking his lips, he smiled instead and then shook his head, admitting quietly* You could never be boring. Alysa: *His hand was still on her cheek, the other her waist: she couldn't help but be distracted by it as for some reason it felt like he was leaving little fingerprints, pressed into her very skin with flames. At his quiet remark though she stills, her smile relaxing and she nods once, words still light* Oh? Now that's new--you pull me away from things all the time saying how boring it is. *her lips twitch and her eyes cast down, demure and looking at his hold on her waist, still not moving away but just gazing--as if she's trying to make sense of it* Vladimir: *he chuckles and then shakes his head slowly, pursing his lips together as he wondered to himself how Lysa ever think herself boring. Maybe she didn't see herself like he did, he heard that was common among most, yet Vlad never had that problem. It was as easy as looking into a mirror for him. Which he might be guilty of, every now and again. Not frequently though, not in the slightest.* Well, some of the things you *do* can be a bit boring to me...but you're not a boring girl. You're great. *she was, and though it might not have been his best of compliments by far, he felt like he had just revealed something of great import to him.* Besides *he added after a quick moment in a lighter tone* I do that when I feel you neglecting me. Alysa: *Another breathless, nervous laugh leaving her lips she shakes her head a moment.* Well, that's something. And to be fair, I suppose a few things you do bore me. *Actually at that moment, she could not think of a thing he did that bored her but she couldn't think of anything else to say that wasn't a reflexive tease, opposition on principle.* I don't neglect you.*she chuckles lightly* I wouldn't dare. *Her gaze was still on his hand. It wasn't just warmth, she realized. She felt safe in his grasp. Safe and excited.* Vladimir: Sure. *his lips twitched, not entirely believing her-- nothing that he did was boring. Well, except lessons. Those were really boring and curse his mother for urging him, (threatening him and thereby leaving him no choice) to continue his N.E.W.T's at court. Liking her next response a lot more though, he grinned, brushing strands of hair away from her face* Oh but you do. You neglect me Lys. Do you know what neglect does to a Faye? *he shakes his head, teasing still* Unpleasant things. Alysa: *Her eyes snap back up to his as he teasingly brushes her hair; her breath quickening again even as she purses her lips in amusement at his words. Her head tilted in his hand, still pressing against his palm* Unpleasant things? You mean, like you begin to understand unpleasantly you're not the center of everyone's universe? *she licks her dry bottom lip in a quick flick* Though of course I must apologize then, m'lord, and ask how I may atone.

#vlad faye #alysa stuart #alydimir #lovethemsomuch!!#chapter nine #book: the proclamation

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