#sofya faye

[ofsteelroses]

the faye family tree; (3/3) and this would be the final culmination - in the song “family tree”! I did include Tony because the scene fit and he is Dani’s brother and Lyda’s uncle so WHO CARES). every major char that has a playby for the Fayes is in here:

from the proclamation and the royals to the politicians to the cops and all - they absolutely change the course of generations forever.

I actually think my fave is Cole pulling his badge on Oli & Parker being like “booyeah” but :) i do love Noah teaching Lyda how to lock-pick too.

(note that leah and brandin aren’t in here because i’m considering “any part of the 4 gif sets” as included and well, i just plum ran out of room in 10 gifs and i’ve also been doing this for like, 5 hours)

[jamesginortonblog]

Warning: spoilers after the break

The credits have rolled on the third instalment of McMafia and there's a lot to take in. With so many criminal threads to keep track of in this big gangland tapestry, here's our catch-up and episode three explainer to help you out.

So, you've got your head around the show's premise (if not, have a gander at our episode one explainer). Now to make sense of the rapidly unfolding, globetrotting narrative...

McMafia episode 2 recap

Episode two introduced another alarming string to Semiyon Kleiman's (David Strathairn) bow; a sex-trafficking operation that smuggles unsuspecting female Russian immigrants across the Egyptian border into Israel for his pleasure.

Young Lyudmilla (Sofya Lebedeva), who we meet in the second episode's opening scene, came face to face with Kleiman after her traumatic journey where he smiled a smarmy, faux-sympathetic smile and reassured her that they'll help each other. Yeah, right.

The second episode focused on Kleiman's business interests across the world. While Egypt is his hub for trafficking, he enters into business with Dilly Mahmood (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) in Mumbai, who will outbid kingpin Mr Chopra (the 'God' of Mumbai in the show's first ever scene) in the bribing of local officials.

Prague is another key city for Kleiman, described as the gateway to Russia, where his nemesis Vadim Kalyagin (Merab Ninidze) operates. Alex Godman (James Norton) has begun his dodgy money transfers for Kleiman, but soon he is forced to fly out to Prague and act as Kleiman's lawyer to encourage sweat-shop owner Jan Reznik (Martin Hub) to continue his dealings with them.

Still following? Good.

Having taken Alex and Kleiman's £5million 'goodwill gesture' and done a runner, it's left to Alex to promise Czech simpleton Reznik that there's plenty more money to be made in entering into business with Kleiman.

It's not what Alex wanted. He had been assured that he would just be the numbers man; the man who makes things happen anonymously with a click of a button. It's all a bit hairy, then, when Alex finds himself forced into the centre of crucial negotiations with Mr Reznik's people.

After a level-headed conversation with Reznik's right-hand man Karel Benes (Karel Roden), Alex tells Benes that he is the sort of man he'd be happy to do business with. That does it. Mr Reznik is killed by his own men in an 'accident' involving a balcony, leaving Alex and Kleiman open to deal with Benes.

McMafia episode 3 explained

On to the third episode, then, and Vadim is already feeling the strain of all the deals Kleiman set in motion. He's finding that his bribes aren't enough and his shipments are being held up… and he's not buying that Reznik's death was an accident.

Insistent on getting the matter dealt with fast and with force, Vadim and his daughter Natasha (Anna Levanova) head to Prague. While Natasha enjoys exploring the sights of the city, Vadim tries to unearth the reasons for the hold-ups in his previously smooth-running system.

He visits Reznik's apartment and sees the signs of struggle along the floor and the bottom of kitchen cabinets. Flicking out the fingernail that fell down a grate as Reznik clung to his balcony door for dear life, Vadim demands to know which police officer was behind the ruling of Reznik's death as unsuspicious.

Policeman Josef Hancil (Marek Vasut), who was seen accepting a bag of cash from new Prague boss Benes at the start of the episode, is beaten for the name of the man who is out-bribing Vadim. He provides Benes' name before being pulped to death by Vadim anyway. Seems fair, right?

As if we didn't have enough countries to juggle, episode 3 throws France into the mix when Alex's 'old Harvard friend' Antonio Mendez (Caio Blat) invites Alex and his girlfriend Rebecca (Juliet Rylance) on a trip to his property in the South of France.

Apparently he's keen to see if Alex will invest in some fishing business he's got going on. Well, obviously it smells fishy (ho ho!) and it's more than a little clear from Alex's worried expression that he has no idea who this chap is. Alex apparently came to Medez' attention when he was watching Kleiman's movements in Prague and he now wants to cover up this forced business meeting as a couple's retreat.

Alex has a face like a wet weekend as he and Rebecca walk around the stunning villa complex. He looks a fun combination of fed up, scared and sick… but somehow Rebecca fails to notice all of this, grinning at the sights and eagerly accepting every glass of white wine going as the blokes sneak off and have their chats in dark corners.

It transpires that Mendez just wanted to alert Alex to a shipment of heroin that Vadim plans to take through Mumbai. While Mendez quite fancies getting involved with Kleiman for a bigger boat to load up his own illegal cargo, he tells Alex he simply wants Kleiman to know about the shipment so that he can intercept it and damage the support Vadim has from his financial backers.

In short, Burger King needs to shake investor faith in McDonald's. Oh, and then Mendez shows Alex the man who killed his Uncle Boris in a cellar. We'll have to see where that one goes...

Back at home in London, matters of the heart are shaking the Godman family. Last time we saw Alex's father Dimitri (Aleksey Serebryakov) he had been rushed to hospital having jumped off the roof of his home, distraught over his brother's death and declaring his love to an unknown recipient on the phone.

It transpires that Dimitri has been having an affair with a woman named Masha and with a strong, steely performance from Maria Shukshina, Alex's mother Oksana tells the other woman that she is welcome to Dimitri, so long as she picks up all the slack where his alcoholic suicide bids and deteriorating health are concerned.

While the men are pushing about money, the women have their head in the skies. While Oksana is preoccupied with her heartache, Alex's sister Katya (Faye Marsay) is blissfully unaware of any family strife at all, Vadim's daughter Natasha is blind to her father's brutal business in Prague while Rebecca is oblivious to just about everything on her fun French getaway.

With such strong actresses in the cast, we can only hope for a double agent… and soon

[fycourtera]

{chapter seventeen: 6} sofya/hector

Hector: *He was going to miss baths. It was an odd sentiment, given that there were so many other aspects of his life that he should be focusing on instead, but it was just something he had picked up on during the week he had spent with the lads. Well, the lads and Sonja but she was more of an honorary lad. He thought he got dirty and gritty working at the smith, but this was a different kind of unclean. It was a bit funny, he never thought he cared about hygiene. Mia's need for cleanliness and orderliness must have rubbed off on him at the exact wrong time. And if even he couldn't stand his own smell, he wasn't going to make Sof sit through it. He had left earlier so he could wash off at the river by the spot they had agreed to meet, and yes, because he wanted to make sure he didn't lose his way given that it was the middle of the night. His uncle Mitchell had tried to talk him out of it only once, which surprised Hector considering how often he was suggesting to him to run away to Ireland and go live with Carina and her husband. What a load of bollocks. As if Hector would leave now, no! He'd help the lads get justice, clear their name, take revenge and then after it was all done, well...he'd assume he'd have to beg for mercy. He wasn't used to being on his knees, though. The river wasn't too deep, not at that spot, so he couldn't submerge entirely, but that wasn't really necessary, he just needed to wash the excess dirt off. Cupping his hands together to splash water on his face, he tried not to let his thoughts stray towards that horrible night a week ago. It was always there, creeping up on him every time he closed his eyes. The first night he didn't sleep a wink, and the second he woke up from a nightmare covered in sweat. None of them had teased him about it, just clapped him on the shoulder and gave him breakfast; they had all gone through it he realized. What a lot they all made. Hector walked out of the river once he felt a bit more clean and headed over to where he had placed his clothes, his hammer, and his sword. The sword he was training with again. He was pleased to find out that aside from his uncle, he could best the lot of them with a sword. Must have come from working as a blacksmith's apprentice. He remembered the times fondly, as if he'd lived them over half a century ago. That's why he always carried his hammer around too- hammer on his back, sword at his waist. He dried off quickly, though un-thoroughly, using his own shirt before beginning to dress. He had only managed to lace up his trousers when he heard hoofbeats. God, he really hoped that was Sof, otherwise he'd be in a load of trouble. Thankfully, it was. Grinning wide at her, the shirt lay forgotten for the moment* I was starting to think you wouldn't come. *Not really, but that sounded a lot better than 'hey'* Sofya: *It had not been an easy week for anyone in England, she assumed, but Sofya had spent the first half of the week attending to her mother and trying not to think about Hector and the other outlaws, and the second half of the week helping Adelina and actively thinking about Hector, having given up. It wasn't supposed to have been difficult to slip out, when her father had been at the court all day, and her mother had been falling asleep at eight chockful of medicine she swore she didn't need. Of course, she had not counted on the fact that Ron was staying at home now, not at court with the lads. Three guesses why that was--oh, no wait, she only needed one. Humming the only six notes from 'Carmen' she knew as she trotted Sable through the forest, she suppressed a giggle at the thought. She wasn't really upset over that of course: Carmen was really a lovely, charming person she absolutely needed to spend more time with. Maybe that would be easier if her brother would stop commandeering all of it. Her lips twitched. Yet she was frustrated he had spotted her on the way to the stables and proceeded to ask why she was wearing a silk dress to go riding in. It was a fair question. Probably a more fair question would be why she was wearing a silk dress to go into the forest in, and of course that discounted the fact she was meeting an outlaw, but she had managed to convince him she just hadn't felt like changing. Thank God her brother had not noticed she had changed silk gowns--thank God his eyes were stuck on Carmen whenever she was in the room. Three times she had changed, to be precise, and as she approached the river, she was delighted to see she was not alone in this. Momentarily stifled to see him shirtless, she turned her head to insure her cheeks didn't flush as brightly pink as they felt warm and exhaled. Oh, damn him too. Spinning around only when she was sure she could smile at him without being the color of a rose, she chuckled as she dismounted and shook her head.* Are you admitting to a moment of doubt, Hector? *Her lips flick.* How humble of you. *She couldn't help her eyes from trailing down his chest, but she made them jump back to hold his own a moment later, untying her own cloak: it was warm.* I am glad to see you. Hector: *Well, he hadn't expected for her to turn up in a silk dress but he couldn't say that he didn't enjoy the view. He was exceptionally glad that he had decided to wash then. He was also exceptionally pleased when he noticed her eyes trail over his chest. He certainly wasn't putting on the shirt though, was he? No reason not to show off the fruit of his labors. He grinned and then shrugged in exaggeration, taking a step towards her as she stepped off her horse.* I 'ave a couple of humble moments here and there. *his lips twitch before he grins and then nods* It's good to see you too. *He didn't notice how incredibly honest that sounded like, otherwise he might have actually taken some time to he embarrassed about it. Instead, he only smiled wide, easier than he had since he had last seen her to say the truth. Or think the truth. Well, he might as well just say it out loud then.* I thought about you. A lot. *He was behaving a lot more honestly than usual, so he felt the need to add a joke; jokes were always good right?* Just letting you know that it's okay to admit you were doing the same about me. *He nodded, grinning again* Sofya: *Her smile spreading in delight, she immediately teased as he seemed to puff up his chest,* I didn't exactly expect to see so much of you, but I can't complain. Though you should know, it is very improper. *She winked, as she tied Sable off to the tree -- reaching into the saddle bag to fetch a snack for him and take the bit from his mouth -- there was no reason he should have to be uncomfortable now. Glad she could still see despite the lateness of the hour, she realized the moon above was near full. Tucking red behind her ear, she grinned with genuine happiness -- he had?-- at the remark, nodding before laughing.* Hmm. I might have thought about you. Once or twice. *Or the entire week, but did she have to reveal that? Her lips flicked again, now drawing off Sable's back snacks for them, saying lightly,* I brought a few things to eat. I ... thought you might be hungry, so. *She held the basket, and then lowered it as she realized the cork on the bottle of wine was visible and just grinned at him.* Hector: *he scoffed, and he would have crossed his arms in front of his chest but that would mean covering it up and why should he when she was clearly enjoying the sight of it?* I'd say you crave a little improper in your life, really. *It's true. Otherwise why would she be here? Actually, he could take it back a lot farther than that. Otherwise why would she have kissed him? Come looking for him to see if he was alright? Dance with him? Not sell him out to her uncle on the day of the robbery? Though, she had slapped and teased him, so he supposed there was some sort of balance there.* Oh? Only, once or twice? *he sniffs* I'm insulted. *Haa, as if he could be really. Grinning softly as he saw her take a basket out* You kidding? I'm always hungry. *he chuckled and then wiggled his eyebrows as he saw the wine bottle* Incredibly thirsty too. *He stepped closer to her, grinning* You didn't have to, you know. Sofya: Impropriety. Crave a little impro--never mind. *She spent too much time with her mother, clearly. To think she was now correcting his grammar-- as if she didn't like the rough, honest way he spoke, as if she didn't prefer it, the thought made her blush. She waved her hand, brightening at the thought and admitting,* I may. I never realized I did before, but. *She was there, was she not? Though she thought that was more...well, she liked him, he made her laugh, and after everything he'd gone through...she couldn't say why exactly, she just wanted to be there for him. She didn't think on this too much. Her lips flick again.* I am sure. *He wasn't insulted in the slightest. Of course, he also clearly knew she had lied. Smile softening as he continued she took a few steps towards him, opening the basket and pulling out the blanket first--because of course she brought a blanket, it was silk.* I know. I wanted to. *She looks back up.* Just like I wanted to come. Even if technically...*She presses her lips together, asking hesitantly,* Have you..I don't know what you know about the new security measures. *She bites her lip together.* So called. They frankly beg defiance. *In her opinion, for it bothered her incredibly how much others were not only following them, but pleased by them at court.* Hector: *he waves her correction off* You know what I meant. *The correcting might have grown to be annoying for some but Hector was rather glad just to have her for company. Though, that didn't mean he wouldn't start getting annoyed if she were to make it a habit. It's not like he didn't know the proper way, he just chose to ignore it because his way was faster. His eyebrows raised as she took out a blanket made from the same, or similar, material her dress was made out of he was sure. It looked so fragile. He rubbed the blanket between two fingers, marveling at how soft it was. He looked back up at her and then frowned at the reminder, nodding his head to show he knew what she was referring to* I know enough. *But that he didn't want to focus on, so instead he grinned* So not only do you crave -impropriety-, you're indulging in a little law-breaking as well. *he smirks* Does that red hair just fill you with a fire you can't snuff out? Sofya: *Pausing as she watches him take a corner of the blanket, she said calmly,* You could keep this too really. *She had plenty of blankets on her bed -- too many, in truth, considering it was getting warmer every day, and while not as comfortable as a mattress, there had to be something she could do to help. Taking the corner herself and setting the basket down, she nodded at him to step back so they could lay the blanket out so they could sit. Chuckling at his question, she looked back up at him.* That might be the case actually. I haven't settled since I learned to walk. *She shakes her head back to shake the hair out--she couldn't help it, she was proud of it, and then grinned again.* If I remember right, *she winked* we're meant to learn new things about each other, Hector Stone, blacksmith's apprentice. *Her lips flicked.* And considering how we met, you already knew I wasn't exactly adverse to a little law-breaking. *She dropped her hand and looked at him stubbornly, going to sit on the blanket once she'd put the basket on it, asking casually,* So...what is your favorite hobby? Besides turning weapons to acorns. *She wiggled her brows at him.* Hector: *He smiled and shook his head* Oh no, I couldn't. Anything this fine deserves more than a dirty grim forest. *he chuckles and then wrinkles his nose* It could actually rip pretty easily too. *He stepped back when she urged, placing the blanket down on the ground, not being able to tear his gaze away from her for too long. Laughing once as she shook out her hair, he really did love that hair, his lips twitched and then he nodded* Fair enough. *he goes to sit down when she does, grinning at her tease* Well, I like playing cards. It's a Stone thing, you see. But I do, or well I did, spend a lot of the time at the forge even when i weren't being paid. *he shrugs* It's fun. Bring my hammer with me everywhere. *his lips twitch and he gestures to it sitting against the tree* My real hammer too. *he grins* What about yours? *teasing* Brushing your hair? Sofya: *She chuckles, a wide smile crossing her lips and she shakes her head, lifting a corner of the blanket and pulling it between her thumb and forefinger, saying easily* It has an unbreakable charm. But all right. *Dropping it, she laid her legs out, brushing the skirt over them and leaned back on her hands, smile flicking up* Cards? Really? I love playing cards. Although I'm a bit more partial to .. well, horse racing, in the gambling arena. *She follows his gaze for only a moment, taking the opportunity as he looks away from her to look at him again and then meets his gaze when he turns back, lips pressed in a coy, 'aha how funny are you' smirk* It's impressive. *She nods at the hammer, and teases* No...is your other hobby not wearing a shirt? *Okay, she actually did like brushing her hair, and braiding it, and finding new styles with it but it wasn't like it was her -favorite- hobby. She paused, thinking and said slowly,* Well, besides horseback riding...I like drawing. I'm nowhere near as good a painter as my aunt, but sketching I'm not half bad at. Hector: *Of course it did. He wondered why he was so surprised about it, actually. He grinned as she admitted to love playing cards as well. He knew there was a less superficial reason for why he liked her. Granted, he wouldn't say that out loud.* Gambling on horse races? *he wiggles his eyebrows* That's ladylike. *he grins and then wiggles his eyebrows at her own joke and then sniffs, turning his nose up in the air* And if it is? *It wasn't, obviously, but it was a joke. He smiled* Wicked. Sketch anything you're immensely proud of? Sofya: *Wiggling an eyebrow, she nods with a shrug.* True. I usually have to get my brother to bring me to bet with him. *Her lips flick* But after I was proven right in two races in a row, the boys stopped griping about my being there and started craving my advice...can you imagine? *She grinned as he sniffed and shrugged a shoulder, saying innocently,* Nothing, I can't say I don't approve. *Her lips flick, adding* Though you really are making the word ostentatious apply to you more and more. *Her smile softens and she reaches for the basket, going to pull out the plates (and napkins, just because it was a picnic at midnight didn't mean she had to forgo all manners) before the cheese and bread. She chuckled.* Sable. But I bet you could have guessed that. *Her lips twitch.* What about you--particularly memorable Stone family card-playing victory? Hector: I'm shocked. *He chuckled, wondering briefly what going to a horse race would be like. Can't imagine it would smell very pleasantly. The stables were a right stench all the time. He didn't know how Lucy put up with it.* You taught me what that word means before, I know it, don't tell me *he snapped his fingers, trying to recall the definition of the word.* Something something...it means I'm being an obnoxious prat. *That was probably it. His lips flicked as she took out utensils. Wow, he hadn't used a napkin in...well, best not to say. He didn't have sleeves to use anyways, so. He tore off a piece of bread and took a bite, wondering how it managed to stay so warm. He chuckled after he swallowed and nodded* I had a feeling, eh. Well, it was recently really. Nearly all of us got together at my grandparents' house when we met Alec and Blair. And we got to just me and my aunt Beatrice, everyone else folded, and then she revealed it: a straight in diamonds. -Everyone- thought I was going to lose and then just like that I throw my cards down: royal flush. *he grins at the memory* You know I never did get all that money....we were already starting to get drunk, so. *his lips twitch* Sofya: *She chuckles as he starts trying to remember, nodding at his conclusion.* Well, blunt, forward, presumptuous, utterly without shame..*Nodding with each word as she pops a piece of cheese in her mouth, she chuckles as he continues. Oh, of course, Alec and Blair...she'd only met them once, and was more amused with her father teasing Uncle Damocles that they were 'kind of' his children too considering he had loved Rowland. Honestly, she wished she could have met Rowland, considering how often he, Aunt Maeve and even Aunt Abira mentioned him ----but she tuned back into the story, more focused on Hector now. Beaming, she laughed out as he said he had a royal flush, and she shook her head.* That's insane. I think I have seen one royal flush in my life. Not counting the time Ronald cheated of course, made me think I had it legitimately and then confessed he actually had one too because he'd arranged them that way. *She wrinkled her nose, and then chuckles.* Leigh was more upset though, somehow he'd actually been dealt a full house and probably would have won if Ron hadn't been messing around. *She grins and then holds up her hand at his last remark.* Ah, speaking of drinks...*She pulls out the bottle of wine, saying apologetically,* It was the only thing I could steal, so... Hector: *He tilted his head and then he nodded, liking the sound of that very much. Yes, that was him. He grinned at her laugh, rather liking it and nodded* Yeah, I've never had one in my life before then. Probably never will again. *He chuckled and then listened to her own story, laughing once* I'd be mad too! Card games are no joke, you know. *He smirked as she brought out the bottle, popping another piece of bread in his mouth.* Don't apologize. It's probably fancier than anything I'll ever have. *he grins and then taps the bottle twice to make the cork pop out, laughing once* Party trick. Brought glasses or no? Sofya: *Giggling again, she presses her hand over her heart and nods a solemn vow,* Oh, I told Ron so, made him swear never to do anything of the sort again. *She grins remembering the rest of the story,* And then he got up to get us drinks, and when he came back he had been dealt a straight in hearts, and he was convinced Leigh had put it there, so he started saying how 'oh no. no, stop messing with me.', and laid it down and insisted we deal again. Of course, we hadn't done that to him, he just gave away a straight... *Hearing that she chuckled only once and said lightly,* Well, actually I was apologizing it wasn't liquor. *Her wink became a rapid blink as she watched the cork fly out, and brightened instantly.* How did you do that? *Remembering briefly what Leah had said once, about muggleborns being actually more accomplished at magic by now because they did it wandlessly, she nodded and took out the wine glasses, eyes still fixed on his.* Seriously though- *She held the glass out for him to pour,* How did you do that?! Hector: *he laughs heartily* Good! Serves him right, really. *he nodded, thinking about his own family members back in simpler times. Hard to believe that had only been a week ago. *He smirked, 'ahhing' in understanding, his lips twisting* Well, got plenty of that already. *His smirk softened as she seemed impressed with his spellwork and then chuckled, pouring the wine into the glass and then shrugging, answering easily * I concentrated. Sofya: *Laughing, she nods.* I thought it did. *As she laughs, her mouth opens, her tongue flicks across her bottom lip and she pops another piece of cheese in: truthfully, she wasn't that hungry, but she wasn't going to pass up on either bread cheese and wine, nor the opportunity to bring the outlaws something to eat.* Oh do you? *Amused, she tilts her head at him, asking teasingly* And who exactly is bringing you liquor? Who should I know is also visiting you? *Taking the glass from him, she takes a brief, ladylike sip, the rich taste of grapes still not perfectly to her liking, but it was warm and wet her dry throat.* You concentrated. I wish I could concentrate like that. Hector: *he chuckles, shaking his head* No, no one visits little old me. *His lips twitched at the technical truth of his words; if anything Leah visited Mitchell above all* Well, except you of course. *he winked and began to pour himself a glass, though really the bottle would have sufficed* The lads...acquired it. *Nicked it, during the ball actually, well, before things turned to shit. He picked up his glass and took a lengthier sip than hers, watching her mouth for a small moment* You could, if you practiced. *he grins again, shrugging* But I suspect you'd have gotten used to your wand by this time. Sofya: *About to tease 'so she was 'no-one' hm,' she only grinned as he corrected himself. Actually quite pleased with the response selfishly, she still said gentler, teasingly,* Oh..well then I suppose I shall just have to come more often, insure you don't get lonely. *Setting her glass on her knee, she was careful not to spill over her dress, and said amused,* Well, we were just starting wandless magic when I came home...I could try. I wouldn't mind being less reliant on my wand. *She shrugged a shoulder.* Even if it 'does' supposed offer more control and everything. *But she paused at saying that, realizing the 'everything' part was actually inclusive with what they would sometimes say of muggleborns: that they had no control over their magic. Except clearly Hector had more control than she did, and well, weren't they the ones refusing them wands? She pursed her lips, realizing the more she thought about it, the more she wanted to help all of them, not just Hector. Although admittedly, at that moment...her mind was on Hector.* Hector: *The thought of her visiting him for more often made him actually quite happy, despite knowing she was teasing. Besides, he knew she shouldn't that something could go wrong, that she could get caught or followed and whoops, there went his neck if it did happen. So instead he simply replied* Well, I definitely won't complain. *he put a slice of cheese in his mouth instead, having to hold back a snort, and he hadn't been too successful.* Control is learned too. I guess it's a just a little more...explosive, I suppose. *he shrugs and then smiles* So, I remember I was going to tell you about being born of the dragon. Sofya: *A genuine soft smile flit across her lips as she saw how happy the thought of her coming again had made him for the split second he let it show.* Explosive? *She grinned, an eyebrow arching skeptically* Are you sure you're not just saying that to impress me? *Reaching for the bread and wiping her hands off, over the ground so as not to splatter dress of blanket with crumbs, she laughs and nods.* Yeah, that's right, you did. Did it have anything to do with the dragon that attacked the town? I still think this is an odd thing to say about your mother, but. *She wiggled her eyebrows*

[courtera]

[fyrowecca]

derrick faye (eddie redmayne) & theresa faye (gemma aterton)

leigh faye / skandar keynes sofya faye / bonnie wright ronald faye / sam clafin

...i kind of totally adore this family :)

[fycourtera]

{chapter sixteen: 1} sofya, hector, mitchell

Sofya: *One moment, she had been holding her mother's hand, Ronald squeezing her shoulder, being told the strange story of how their mother had been saved. Her upper lip was stiff--she refused to cry, for this was happy news, their family at least was safe (though Father was not leaving her side and was fussier than her Grandma at the moment). The next moment, or so it seemed to Sofya--and this was even stranger to her, she was riding bareback, through the forest, still in a torn ball gown, red hair flying free and whipping her neck. She wasn't sure she recalled the details of her in between properly: she must have asked for leave to go to sleep, she recalled hugging her brother, had a vague memory of embracing an intoxicated Vlad. Somewhere on the way to her bedroom it had occurred to her that Hector and Mitchell were on foot, that there were wards for a mile preventing apparition, that if she hurried she may be able to find them. Though the chance was small, her mind was made in a moment. Hector's face seemed seared into the back of her eyelids.His guilt, his defiance, his horror and the half mumbled defense to her, "I didn't mean--" had seemed to stop her heart in her chest. She hadn't been able to wrench her eyes from him until he left. Now she slowed the horse in frustration, muttering under her breath,* This is folly. *It was the second time, she thought amused, that she had run into the forest to catch him without remembering why she had. Dismounting, she hardly could feel her legs as she stepped to a tree to rest. There was a river nearby, she thought, she could at least sit in reflection, away from the nightmare of court before she returned. Sitting on a stone, she was startled to see she'd slipped the bandage on her forearm, and set about replacing it with heavy breath. The task was not sufficient to erase Hector from her mind-either Stone, in truth, for it seemed without them, she would be motherless now.* Mitchell: *At his urging, they had split up. Sonja, Arthur, and Kenneth would be arriving at their camp directly, but he and Hector we're taking the longer away around, in case they were being followed. Hector hadn't said a word since they had started running, and he seemed intent on placing his entire focus on the ground in front of him. They couldn't run forever though, and Mitchell bid his nephew stop near a river, holding himself with his hands on his knees as he breathed heavily. He had barely gotten air into his lungs that he heard the sound of hooves on the forest floor and he groaned- they wouldn't be able to outrun, so they had to go up. He patted Hector's shoulder and then pointed up at the tree and began climbing first* Hector: *He had just wanted to have a little fun. The beginning of the night seemed like half a century ago to him, and any time before that another life altogether. He couldn't shake the man's face from his mind, the look of horror in his eyes as he was skewered, the blood that had bubbled up in his mouth and coughed out. Hector didn't know it was that easy, taking a life, how fast a person could vanish from the world, how fragile they all were. He was just trying to save his friend, that was all...Jasper had been his friend and now what was he? He had been attacking all of them too, more than once Hector screamed at him to stop but he hadn't. That wasn't Jasper, the Jasper he knew wouldn't harm a fly...maybe a fly, maybe a deer, never another person. But Hector had, Hector had killed a man, a husband. The woman's scream still rang in his ear. Hector stirred, not having noticed they had stopped and only barely registered that they were about to be caught. Maybe he should turn himself in; he wasn't like his uncle, his uncle had never killed anybody but he had. But instead he began to climb, not as aptly as his uncle, but he was hiding in the branches by the time a horse came into view, though it remained a fair distance away from them. Blinking suddenly as he noticed the cascade of red hair illuminated by the moonlight straining through the leaves, his breath caught in his throat.* Sof...*he whispered under his breath, barely audible to his own ears, he began to move down* Mitchell: *With eyes wide, he stopped Hector from moving further and leaned in to whisper as well, trying not to let the sound travel* Are you mad? Hector: I trust her. *he said immediately, though he couldn't be sure why. The only thing they had done was dance...oh, and he held her hostage, a lifetime ago. Though she didn't turn him in during that. He moved again, out of his uncle's reached and climbed down. His tux was ripped and dirty- Karyn was gonna kill him. He stepped away from the tree slowly* ...what are you doing here? Mitchell: *Oh for heaven's- he dropped down to the floor as well, but he remained by the tree, wary, making sure someone hadn't just sent a pretty little redhead as bait and distraction.* Sofya: *As she tied the bandage off again, the horse startled beside her and she hopped back to her feet in an instant. The forest had never frightened her, but after tonight...she wasn't ashamed of a certain skittishness, that was common sense. One hand slid to wrest her wand free again, but the other only tucked a wild, scarlet strand back as she turned and saw instantly what had spooked Sable. Her brow arched, flooded with a rush of delight, relief, hurt, and a confusing rush of something else she had no name for, but it filled her up and made her take several steps towards him. Her wand dropped to her side, and she stilled seeing Mitchell too, her back stiffening in guilt more than wariness. Her mother had always preached tolerance and non-violence despite her father being the Lord Commander, but she had never seen any reason to dispense with propriety. This view Sofya shared, yet here she was in the forest at midnight in a torn gown, hair free, and wand down  encountering a man they all claimed was a murderer, and another she knew had killed. Hermother would kill her. Yet she held her chin higher, eyes snapping back to Hector, saying very softly, but with determined strength* I don't know. Honestly. *Her eyes softened as she looked at him.* I know you didn't mean to, I wanted to...tell you, I guess that was my...thought. *she pressed her lips together, then turned to see Mitchell still off. Her voice was stronger as she continued, eyes locked on his fiercely with a steel line in her jaw.* I owe you an apology, Mitchell. I believed you guilty until tonight, and I am ashamed of it. *her lips press together, and for a moment she feels very young looking at him, fear for her mother crossing her face, before saying quieter* Yet you saved my mother's life tonight. I don't know why you would, *her shoulders dropped* I only can say I...am utterly within your debt, and thank you more than words can say. *Her eyes seemed instantly to go back to Hector.* Hector: *he nodded a bit absently, not exactly sure what to make of her words. They didn't offer much comfort, though he supposed he was glad to have someone think he wasn't a cold blooded killer, but he had killed nonetheless. Were he a more godly man like his grandparents he would be worrying for his eternal soul. Right now he was a bit more worried about his not do eternal life, and how many enemies he had just made. Before he had figured how to respond to Sof, she was speaking to his uncle instead* Mitchell: *Well that was unexpected. His eyes remained locked on hers as she spoke, weighing the truth of her words. He did not know the girl personally, though her features were familiar, but even still his expression softened as she admitted in believing his innocence* Well *he spoke quietly, shrugging* that's one down. *Only, oh, the rest of court and town to go. He hoped that didn't mean he had to save that many people as well. He only has so many arms. He nodded at her gratitude* just did what was right. *she didn't care anymore though, her attention had drifted again* We can't stay long Hector. *Nevertheless he recognized those looks, so the least he could do was give them some privacy, so he walked more towards the river to wet his face and take a drink; he had to think* Hector: *his gaze had not left hers as she spoke, gladdened to hear her words but no more knowing what he should say than before. He barely heard Mitchell speak again or walk away, nor did he know why he asked the next question* Who was he? Sofya: Most people wouldn't have. *She didn't want the dismissal, though she couldn't say why. Mitchell was believed by so many to be a dangerous killer--she had been among them--yet he still strove to save her? It wasn't just "what was right." It was a whole lot more. It spoke volumes for his character.* And I should think it's two at least; my brother said as much. *Before he'd left her to drink. Quietly nodding as Mitchell moved off, she didn't take her eyes off Hector, her face suddenly contorting in pain at his question.* Hector...don't...*she winced* Don't torture yourself...*she bit her bottom lip hard and finally answered, realizing she would have wanted to know herself.* Anthony Tissar. A knight. *And friend of her fathers. He'd given her a sweet once when she was sick. Her heart seemed to throb. Instead she said softer,* Who was it you saved? Hector: *Hector knew the words her uncle did not speak out loud for once; "he wasn't most people". It was true. Mitchell had just risked his own life to save Hector's. His jaw and gaze set as Sofya began to deny him at first. He was already torturing himself, what would a name do? Apparently, much more. A knight...ironic enemies for a blacksmith, really. Is that all they came to at the end? A name and a job title? He frowned further, and shook his head slowly, breathing out heavily* Jasper. We're mates, or rather...were. *he purses his lips together* Guess "accomplice" is a better word now, innit? *he gritted his teeth together, clenching his hands into fists at his sides, but his eyes remained wide before he cleared his throat, blinking through his thoughts, grasping at straws* Your uncle...I mean, would I...if I turn myself in...ain't got much chance, really... Sofya: *She didn't recognize the name Jasper, but she hadn't expected to. Supposing after a moment that she had just been searching for a reason, to justify what she had always thought she should have found unjustifiable. At his gritted amendment she took another step forward, reaching for his hand, squeezing it  with a head shake; she couldn't think how else to refuse his words besides simply refusing them. It was petulant. But she didn't like seeing him in pain. Softly, with an intake of breath, she shook her head again, looking down* I don't know why Jasper attacked. If you do, I'd like to know. But otherwise...*she looked back up, saying hesitantly* Uncle Damocles is fair. And he would be incredibly sympathetic. But the council is not, and they will not be. On top of their ignorance, it wouldn't surprise me if they sought to make an--an example--*her breath caught*--Hector, please don't. Please. Hector: *his eyes flicked to her hand as she took his, marveling briefly at how smooth and soft her hands were. He shook his head, his eyes still focused on her hand* I dunno. He's been odd for a couple o'weeks, but I didn't think...*That was the whole problem. He hadn't stopped to think, and now look where he was. He frowned over the details, not really understanding how the law worked at court, but he didnt like the sound of this council. But a man was supposed to own up to his mistakes, and he had made a terrible one. For a fleeting moment he even considered confessing to Mitchell's other charges, if he was going to be hanged anyways-- but he didn't consider it for too long. Hector didn't want to die. Looking up from their hands finally he asked quietly, in confusion* Why do you care what happens to me? Sofya: *She bit her lip in concern but decided she could worry about Jasper's motivations tomorrow. It made very little sense to her regardless, and Hector's face...her heart seemed to pound very loud in her ears. Her gaze dropped to her hand in his. It was funny; she had thought to comfort him, yet his grasp did more to steady her. He was strong. A particularly rough callus on his thumb seemed to mark her sensitive skin alight, and it occurred to her she didn't know what he did for a living. She hardly knew anything actually, but of course he couldn't make a living turning weapons to acorns. With another sudden breath at his hesitant question she lifted her gaze to his and answered before thinking.* Should I not, Hector? I have no desire to see justice so subverted. Not anymore than it already has been. *That wasn't why, or rather the only reason. Exhaling, she said almost in wonder.* I care. In the time I've known you, you have berated me, stolen from my uncle's armory, to arm your outlawed family and friends against my father, held me captive,  , killed someone, and....*she softens, but says fondly in quiet earnest*... you have made me laugh more honestly, and feel more strongly, than I think I have in my entire life. I care. *a little hesitantly* Do you not? Hector: *Justice, that was fitting. He actually would have believed her at just that but she continued and it threw him for a loop for a moment, as well as cause a brief smirk to cross his face as she recounted all he had done and then he smiled a lot more genuinely than he thought he would be capable of again* From the moment you slapped me, actually. *his lips twitched before he added more lightly* You're a pretty good dancer, Red, I was impressed. Sofya: Well, you were being exceedingly presumptuous. *Her lips twitched, refusing to blush. The fact that she had made him smile, she thought, meant more to her than his compliment. Yet her smile widened at the name 'Red' anyways, and she chuckled just barely, just once.* I was being stubborn, truthfully, but. You were impressive yourself. *Her head tilts, asking lightly, suddenly anxious, trying to dispel her fear.* 'Red'? First Sof, and then fox--how many nicknames do you intend to have for me? Hector: Not an insult I've heard before. *And he had heard quite a lot in his 18 years of living with his parents. Then again, he wasn't sure if his mum knew what the word presumptuous meant.* I know. *Women liked a man who could dance, his dad had always said...oh bugger, his parents. Mia. They were going to kill him, then they were gonna dig him up and kill him again. He much rather face the court council, actually* Oh, as many as come to mind. Sofya. Sof. My foxy lady. Red. *he wiggled his eyebrows, passing his thumb over her knuckles* You kno' I'm gunna be going through some difficult things- *an understatement* -a Lady that claims to care about me would give me a kiss for good luck. *his lips twitch* Wri: Lmao i just got randomly reminded that Gendry technically has a sister "Mya" too btw. XD Sofya: It wasn't quite meant as an insult, *she heard herself say with a small smile etching itself across her lips* more a chastisement. And anyway, I suppose I prefer when one is bold and daring to one supplicant and likely to cowardice. So you may, *she teased* even have considered it a compliment. Though that would be the stuff scandals are born of, I suppose that too. *watching his thumb pass over her knuckles her breath and heart fluttered before she suddenly met his gaze again* Hector...*her brows furrow, and then sudden steel appears in her eyes and jawline again--and she goes on her toes (Gods her was tall) to press her lips suddenly to his. She meant to pull back at once, but seemed to forget to do that the moment her lips were on his, though truthfully she didn't have any idea what one did next. (All right, she had an idea, Jane -had- said somethings, but she had no experience at it.) Instead she squeezed his hand and kept her lips on his firmly* Hector: *his grin, and smirk, returned as she went through her rather wordy explanation, only to have her end with it being more of a compliment than anything else.* Ah, I knew you liked "being snatched". *It was a tease, but he was glad that the effect on her hadn't been disgust. Despite his constant confidence, he knew that could have been a likely possibility. His eyebrows were raised up to the moment she leaned up to press her lips against his, and remained there. He wrapped his arms around her waist to hold her to him, kissing her back and moving his lips against hers softly and slowly* Sofya: *His arms enclosed her waist, and seemed to remind her to move her own, so she laid them around his neck and shoulders. She still had no idea what she was doing. Tired, too full of confusion and grief to even reach rage, she was still aware this was meant to be wrong. She was only 16, not yet a year out of school, and he was hardly a knight of the tales. (She thought Ron had more of a taste for the tales than she, though he wouldn't admit that of course.) He was right: he'd snatched her, she should have hit him again, told her brother and father. Yet she started moving her lips against his tentatively, under his gentle tutelage, for the motion had lit a fire in her belly she didn't know how to quench. Arms still around him, she finally pulled back for air--and because she had started thinking, and the task was a dangerous one.* Hector. *She breathed it out.* It occurs to me I am unlearned of you beyond a name and fondness for jests. *her eyes lock on his, still hooded* Yet I feel I know you all the same.... Hector: *he chuckled against her lips at her words, nodding, understanding what she meant. He was similarly without knowledge of her himself, and what was more surprising than that was that he actually wanted to know more. This didn't exactly coincide with the reputation he had been building, but he wasnt too devastated* Well, I'm a blacksmith's 'pprentice, 18, and born of the dragon. *the scoff behind him let him know his uncle had approached again, which meant time was up but he licked his lips and said to Sof instead* If you come back in a week to this spot, maybe we can get to know each other a little bet'er? Sofya: *A blacksmith's apprentice--oh Lord, she really could hear her father now. Yet as her gaze flitted down again, tracing his arms, unbidden came the image of him working, sweaty and diligent in a forge, hammering out a plate and a slow, delighted blush crept up her cheeks. This she would have denied of course. Brows furrowing, she first said with a tiny smile* 16. Almost 17. And I suppose my trade has been curtsies, sewing, and singing--as well as spells of nursing and healing of course. Oh, and knife-throwing and riding. *Her lips flicked, adding confusedly,* You call your father a dragon? *Hearing Mitchell's scoff as well, she startled and dropped her arms from his neck, looking between them without moving out of Hector's grasp. Oh bother. Her eyes went wide at Hector's question, and she considered it for a few moments before nodding very slowly.* If I can..get away. *she looked at Mitchell, then back to Hector, troubled* You're safe, though? Hector: The knife throwing and riding I believe *not many could ride a horse in a saddle, let alone bareback* the sewing not so much. *he smiled again though and then answered* My mother fits the description better...but no, I didn't mean either. *Mitchell was getting impatient, he could tell. He sighed, hating how rapidly reality was returning and nodded* As safe as I can, really. *he licked his lips* Take care of yourself too, yeh? *he lifted a hand from her waist to tuck a red strand of hair behind her ear* I hear sewing needles can turn into quite the weapons in a pinch. Sofya: *Truthfully she had said sewing only as a matter of form, but she grinned wider as he continued, nodding once.* Mending can be quite important really, particularly for bandages and the like...but I suppose I was always partial to riding above all. *She didn't know why she was still speaking about this; she supposed she had wanted to stave off reality as much as possible. Waiting a moment, going still, eyes still locked on his where she thought she could glimpse a world of emotion* Yes, I will. *She wasn't the one in danger, she was about to say, though after this night that was hard to believe. Looking at Mitchell again only an instant, she added softer* But where will you go? What will you...do? *Her gaze flicked back to Hector hesitantly, a hand coming back brush sweat from his brow, even as she murmured in agreement.* Fierce weapons actually. Hector: Partial to riding? *his lips twitched in amusement before he added* I'll keep the jests and comments to myself just this once. *he licked his lips and then inhaled in uncertainty, looking at his uncle for a brief moment again, frowning* I don't know. Mitchell: *he patted the horse as the two spoke, speaking to the animal in whispers. He always wanted a horse. They should have stolen horses from some of the stables of the manors they'd robbed.* What do you think, horse? *he asked just as quietly as before* Slightly mental or completely bollocks? *the horse neighed and Mitchell nodded, knowing the answer.* Bollocks, I agree. *Oh Hector. Sometimes his nephew took too much after him. Turning to the pair of them, he answered as much as he could* We have a place, we're safe there. We'll figure out what to do *he sighed, tiredly* in the morning. Hector: *He didn't want to do any of that, he wanted to go home and sleep in his pathetic excuse of a bed which was surely going to be better than the forest floor, but he didn't say so. Instead he turned to Sof again and nodded* I'll be fine. Mitchell: We'll be fine, horse *he rubbed the steed's long nose* You're sweet for worrying. Sofya: *The moment the words had been out of her mouth, she'd opened it again to try and amend them, but now just chuckled in amusement at his restraint. Her smile faded slowly as she turned to listen to Mitch and pressed her lips together. She understood why they wouldn't tell her where it was--but still, she wished they could, just so she could bring them something. Exhaling, her words were soft.* All right. His name's Sable, by the way, Mitchell. *And apparently he'd made a new friend. Heart still fluttery, she looked back and leaned up tentatively to brush her lips against his cheek, whispering* Then one week, here, after sundown. Mitchell: *he turned back to the horse* Nice to meet you, Sable. I'm Mitchell. *he patted his neck again* Hector: *he shook his head slightly at his uncle but turned back to Sof quickly enough and smiled, nodding* One week. *he let his arms fall from around her and then winked in a farewell before turning back to his uncle* Mitchell: Bye Sable *he kissed his nose and patted it before clasping his nephew on the shoulder, squeezing once and started running again, leading the way even as his nephew paused a moment to look back one more time* Sofya: *She pulled back as they ran, waiting a long time without moving. As Hector looked back, her heart seemed to skip a beat again and she scolded it, a posh outcry of--*Oh, stop that.* Flooded with conflicting emotions of worry and delight--of guilt and relief--of blame and gratitude, she felt suddenly more tired than before. A hand slipped her hair back again as she walked back to Sable, patting his nose herself.* Oh, Sable. What am I going to do? *Suddenly throwing her arms around the horse's neck, she buried her face in the fur to stifle tears, thinking of every poor person tonight, of Anthony, of her mother, and Hector. She held him tightly, until a wet, pink nose pushed against her ear in what she swore was in indignant shove. Chuckling as she leaped back, one hand cleared her ear, the other eyes and cheeks. Deciding with determination just to focus on Hector, she turned to mount again, and by the time she was headed back, she was lost to how it had felt to kiss him, and to a small smile.*

[fycourtera]

{chapter fourteen: 14} the moment.

Leah: *With his challenging eyebrow arch her own wrinkled. Did he have to be so smug about that? The insinuation that most purebloods were prejudiced bastards was obvious and unwelcome: the nobility was as diverse as commoners, thank you very much and -- oh fine, maybe she just hated that he was right to be suspect. Shaking her head just once, she spoke softly,* No, he's not... *Her hands were back on her hips, knowing damn well that unless making them be musicians instead of guests was some kind of odd ironic punishment Robert wasn't going to have paid for them, but only for an instant. With his pained single sentence, her hands came down, symbolizing the drop her heart took in her chest. Pain fluttered across her lips and wrinkled eyes, all other things forgotten. Speechless--for what could she say? She wanted to be public with him too? She wanted to prove to the world he was hers--just as she was his? Her breath quickened and heart skipped just for allowing herself to think that. She looked down, rolled her sleeve back, pointing with a soft jab at the bracelet she wore: gold with an arrow, his gift to her. Her breath caught as they locked gaze. Going on her toes, not caring where they were, cupping his cheek, her lips slammed to his. For a moment the world was dead to her: Mitchell was all there was, his lips, his hand, his half-grown beard, his warmth. Then she heard it. Sound seemed to crash back into the world, a melody of blasts and screams raising in  crescendo. Wrenching herself back from him, her eyes were wide in shock and horror and this time, as she rolled her sleeve back, it was to grab the red-hilted dagger and wand, both of which seemed to leap into her hands.* Bloody--?! *She looked at Mitchell only a moment in fear and shock--her terror for him now met with the instant worry for Kitty, for her family, for all of them. And she took off instantly.*

Jane: *Tight, clasping fingers stuck to her left around the gold framed House of Parliament sitting on the painted bank, illuminated in the oranges and reds of sunset. Her right hand grasped at a wood panel above her head. Her hair tumbled free where his fingers had streamed through the spray-stuck style and was flooding off her bare shoulder, the violet silk pulled down to her elbow. Gasping in rhythm, it wasn't the new Monet, the wood, diamonds, nor her gown she focused on (well, once she had been sure he wouldn't rip it, for it was a new gift from her father--and Lord knew she didn't want to mention her father right now). Malcolm's hot mouth was open against her neck, his hand exploring beneath her lifted skirts, her ankles locked around his shirtless-back. Biting down hard on her bottom lip to stifle a sudden squeak, her eyes snapped open as she heard as if from far off an implosion echoing the shudders in her limbs.* Malcolm--*This time her gasp had little to do with his hand, her own falling down to his hair, twisting and pulling him back to meet his eyes in fear. While breathing in heaves against him, she unlocked her ankles, hurriedly gasping out* What--*There was a scream now, piercing her ears as he let her down with a thump. Ripping her sleeves back up to cover her shoulders, her skirt falling heavily to the ground as her free hand slid her wand out from under her bodice (see, there was a reason it was already loose). Mind suddenly a whirl with family members in danger, she breathed out in terrified confusion,* Dear God. Charles--Kit--Rick--*She couldn't keep them all straight, there were too many loved ones in that ball room, which sounded from this distance to be caught in the middle of a war.*

Karyn: *She hadn't moved as he leaned in; her nails were extremely interesting to focus on. And...apparently to intake breath in a somewhat-resembling-being-seduced fashion, but was she surprised she was highly alluring? No, she was not. Licking her bottom lip subconsciously as his sigh embraced her, her own sigh was caught between her teeth as she fought herself. The brief touch of his lips to the tip of her ear left her with the impression a breeze had passed. Damn him. She wanted him to 'ask properly' so she could simply 'deny him properly'; it was hard to answer 'no' to an unasked question. And then he had to go and...damn him! Head tilted to the side inviting, hooded eyes lifted from her shoulder to meet his caramel eyes. Oh, for heavens sakes, she thought, when she was imagining candies his brown eyes reminded her of, it was hopeless to resist what was surely a nightmare-of-a-fantasy-induced temporary fixation. When had she cared what was particularly smart anyway? Lips parting to breathe out in a determinedly contrary fashion (for she hadn't lost all her wits, dammit) she nodded.* It would be your honor, and my delight. *Yet before she could accept his hand, a succession of crashes and screams from behind them had her swivel and yank back from him. Despite the terror in her gaze, she couldn't help a private feeling of relief to have an excuse to pull away, for fear had already been in her gaze as she regarded Evan. Suddenly shrieking herself, she threw herself out of the way of a broken window, doubling over to press her eyes to her bare arms to her stomach. Breathing harshly as the pieces scattered around her, striking stone beside her, she realized Evan had shielded her from most of it. That was just their proximity, she told herself, eyes locked on his in shock. Mouthing 'thank you' to him, she pulled back to run in, breathing out first Lucy's name, than Hector's.*

Joseph: *Slipping the ring on, relief and delight broke across his face simultaneously with hers. For the hundredth time he felt that evening, he thought how it was perfectly all right and understandable for him to have been nervous--anxious, even, for he still had gotten down on one knee hadn't he? As he should have: theirs was a higher calling and demanded propriety. Besides, it was a bit of an inside joke, wasn't it? They were being proper...in the most hilariously improper kind of way for both of them. Lips twitching at the thought, he took her hand while he stood, grinning honestly as she kissed his cheek and held her as tightly as she did. Thoughts still abuzz with different ideas, he echoed her gratitude--or he was about to, when he saw over her shoulder what appeared half the windows implode, showering the ground with glass and serenading the night sky with screams. Pulling back from her instantly, he had his wand out as quickly as he saw she did, his hand still holding hers tightly. With a quick look to her, trust and fear equal in his gaze, he gestured with his words* They're going to need help. *He phrased it that way on purpose; Marietta may be his fiancee (he enjoyed that thought) but as they had said, he had no desire to use her anymore than she did him. She was less his fiancee in that instant than his partner, and whatever had just happened--he couldn't speculate, the shrieks made it too terrifying a thought--they were going to need both of them.*

George: *Having been standing by a window, conversing as politely with a few lords, as politely as he and Adelina could manage, his first instinct upon hearing the smash of the glass breaking was to pull his wife towards him, turning them around and crouching so he could take the brunt of the force. He had sleeves, but Adelina didn't. Barely registering the scratches on his cheek and neck, he looked back up as the glass stopped falling* Are you alright? *he asked hurriedly, standing with her and looking around, his heart dropping into a cavernous pit. No, was the only thing he kept thinking, along with a few choice words. The previously golden ballroom was exploding with different lights, casted and conjured, screams and cries could be heard. Taking his wand out quickly, he stopped pieces of the ceiling from caving in. Exhaling with the effort, he looked for Malcolm and Alysa but the room was utter chaos. Already there were wounded, and dead. He cursed under his breath; no, no, no.*

Vlad: How many times I have told girls to keep their money? *eyebrows arched as he smirks, shrugging his shoulders in an exaggerated manner before he answered smugly* Very kind of you to suggest that they'd be willing to pay for it, but no, I have not used those words before. *His smirk faded an instant as his countenance adopted a look of surprise as she lifted their hands to her lips instead. Oh what a tease, he thought as he watched and felt her lips brush against his knuckles. He chuckled under his breath, the smirk returning for a brief moment before he spoke up* Well, I was thinking more like this...*leaning in with a smile on his lips, he cupped her cheek, his mouth hovering right above hers before he heard it: a crash. The noise was so discordant and harsh that it jarred him backwards in a jump, his pulse spiking immediately as he looked around and saw pieces of brick and stone flying through the air, glasses shattering and spraying a group of people nearest the tables with broken glass, shrill screaming followed. Spells began flying, but in the crowd and the madness it was difficult to figure out where they were coming from. Taking out his wand from an inside pocket as a group of spells flew too close to them for comfort, he slashed his wand through the air and cried out* Protego! *the spells bounced off them, but found others to injure. His eyes wide, heart beating wildly in his chest, he looked back to Alysa to make sure she was alright.*

Garrett: *He had been dancing with his wife when the explosions occurred. Holding her still, he had moved them out of the way of a collapsing column. Wincing, he realized a moment later his eardrum had popped and now throbbed painfully but he paid it no mind. His eyes flew around the room immediately, looking for his children. He spotted Charles with his wand out, saw Kitty with Eli, but there was no sign of either Leah or Jane. People began running, ramming into each other, trying to get away from the explosions and the spells, but Garrett reached for his wand and wished it was his sword instead. Turning around furiously, looking around for the source, he cursed under his breath as he saw the musicians spending out spells wandlessly. Fucking muggleborns, he thought as he aimed a stupefy their way. He could kill them, all of them, but he would not stoop down to their level. He aimed a depulso at another one, sending a man flying through the air before turning to Evelyn, grabbing her hand once again before urging quietly* The children. *he looked around again, and cursed as all seemed too have vanished from his sight.*

Bhavi: *A wicked game, he said, and she could not help her honest smirk of admittance. They were at the Faye court, after all, she thought in delight: was there a better place for wickedness? Even Alec and Blair's mum had deceived them, pretended to be a lady--and their dad had hid his magic for most of his life. And Rowland and Rebecca were pretty much the most honorable people she knew--the thought of them lying so easily still didn't quite fit. Bhavi on the other hand, she could admit to herself she didn't have such qualms. Well, not usually anyways. Appraising who he pointed at--she had hardly opened her mouth before the room seemed to explode behind them -- no, around them, implode in reds and greens as spells streaked over her shoulder, knocked the glass clean from her hand. Shattered glass splattered the ground, her dress, and the column she darted behind--her hand suddenly clasped tight in Jesse's. Which of them had grabbed the other, she didn't know, and she didn't rightly care. Instead she focused on his face above her, his wicked smile replaced in a look of shock, anger, and something she didn't know how to name. She could hear screams of pain--and worse, of loss-- begin to spill into the air, but she refused to scream. Surely they were supposed to be louder? Her heart was deafening other sounds, the room appeared to spin: only after a moment did she realize Jesse was saying something, by the way his lips were moving, for she could not hear a word. Praying she was not deaf--that he only could not be heard above the chaos of battle, she grasped three names: Alec -- Sid -- Blair. And there was nothing she could do but nod in shock, agreeing with him she would do anything they could, reaching for her wand and praying in Hindi she thought she had forgotten*

Damocles: *It truly was amazing, Damocles thought amused to himself, how his wife could smile through insulting someone so thoroughly and leave them walking away feeling as though she had blessed and charmed them. He thought he caught most of them now--most, he would never be so dumb to think he caught all of them. (Though of course she never did this to him, of course not. She assured him of this, with a teasing smirk and sweet caresses accompanying her feigned indignation. As if she would dishonor him so?) His lips twitched and brows wiggled as Clarissa walked away from them. His hand slipped into hers, tugged to spin her around and he met her lips with his in a soft, sweet (and much too short) kiss. No, public displays were not entirely proper but--let them just try and say something against them. Let them dare. Pulling back, his breath was still against the lips he adored, his gaze locked on the eyes of the woman he cherished as he went to search for something--anything, words would be nice--to explain how much she meant to him. Nothing came. But he hoped it was in his eyes. There was a light in hers, one he was so addicted to, and then--and then something else, a light he was decidedly not so fond of--and that was all that registered before he yanked her into him again and down, the stream of vibrant gold shot straight over their heads. His breath caught as they tumbled, his arms around her tighter than he gripped his sword, seeking to shield Maeve's exposed arms from the sudden explosion of glass. Sobered by the blasts as they disentangled in one swift moment, both their wands immediately out, Damocles could not spare a moment to look around the room aghast. If he had--he would have seen the blonde muggleborn he had spoken with only a few minutes light up green before crumpling, or the woman who had once been his sister by marriage only a few inches away, their hands outstretched in rubble towards each other, would have marveled at the jest death had brought: as if those women would have been friends. Instead his eyes sought first his son. As he saw through smoke and spells Vladimir repel a spell, half shielding and half fighting with Alysa, he was not sure which emotion gripped him more: terror or pride. Choosing the latter through stubbornness, he tried to search for Blair, for Alec, for their friends--but saw no sign of them. Only then did he let out an exclamation, a grunt of frustration more than fear, escaping his chest more from the breath it sought he had momentarily forgot was requisite for life. And life meant he could fix this, somehow--not because it was likely, or even foreseeable that he could. He and Maeve would fix it, because they had to, and he would make it, damn everything else. Then he turned to Maeve only an instant. It was not necessity that drove him to seek her gaze, for instinct and experience had taught him she would do as he would have advised without him saying a word. Comfort alone could be given from the momentary gaze, and only some was taken before both leaped to action. The musicians--Blast, he thought in frustration, I should have hired the symphony from London -- but there was no time to focus on that, for those he had let in supposedly to 'make the guests more comfortable with their own music' had erupted with deadly intentions already realized in the chaos around them. Spells flicking every way, he lost sight of both his wife and son as he found Derrick, and let his cousin do the honor as Lord Commander to shriek for the knights to group around them. Maeve would get people out, he knew that. It was his duty to arrest -- or kill, he thought with a sick grimace and twist in his gut, kill if necessary -- those who had turned a night of trumpeting cooperation to a chaotic, desperate wretched hell.*

Eli: *He and Katharine had been accepting another kindly offered congratulations on their proposal. Uncaring if it was genuine kindness or not, they accepted it nonetheless for neither possessed qualms in admitting their happiness about it. Happiness quickly vanished from their faces as a piercing loud noise erupted around them, filling their ears almost painfully. He held his fiancee protectively in his arms, and then moved them back suddenly, almost falling on the ground as he saw parts of the ceiling start to collapse. Wood and stone fell around them, but the couple they were conversing with did not move away fast enough, and were crushed before them. Eyes wide, his hold on Kitty only tightened, keeping her close* Oh God *he whispered under his breath as he saw the destruction heighten among them, and reached inside his pockets for his wand as he saw spells flying, making faces shine violent shades of red, green, blue, yellow, and white* Diana-- *he whispered next, looking around frantically for his sister, his dread growing as he could not spot her. He did find the perpetrators- musicians, the spells bursting forth from their hands instead of wands. Casting a protego around them, he looked back to Kitty, seeing a similar fear in her eyes, he squeezed her hand, words not coming to him as easily as they had been* 

Ariadne: *She hadn't intended to laugh as freely as she did as he spun her and lifted her. Nor was she in control of her heartbeat or breathing for that matter, as one escalated to an obnoxious pace and the other threatened to stop entirely. As her feet touched down on the ground once more she became increasingly aware of their chests pressed together and his hand on her lower back. She briefly wondered if this was what attraction felt like. And his answer, that unfortunately he had not taken as the joke she intended it to be, seemed so honest. Could it really be that simple? The prospect of that warmed her, made her smile. But the feeling didn't last long. A loud boom and crash jarred the room caused her to jerk back from Rhett's hold, and her heart seemed to leap into her mouth as she gasped out loud and looked about, watching the glass and stone fall on them from above. Screams followed, piercing the night air with their terrifying song. Her wand was in her hand not a second later, eyes narrowed in determination for fear was a luxury she could never afford unlike some around them who were fleeing, and falling. Around them, for she wasn't alone, Rhett was still next to her. She looked back at him for just a moment, the dance they had shared pushed aside to the back of her thoughts, resembling more a dream than memory. A moment was all she could spare, for the next her wand slashed through the air, sending a hex flying back to where it came from and stepping forward to deliver one of her own*

Sofya: That's ironic. *The words left her lips before she thought them. That was rare for her, but pleasant she decided, to be honest so easily and carelessly without fear of judgment. Or at least, not actual dismay--just teases, smirks and fake hurts she couldn't deny being swayed by. Not in her own head, anyway.* Ostentatious is another word for pretentiousness characterized by vulgarity. It suits you, really. *Her head turned towards the music, starting at the sudden change, unsure what to make of the speedy, shrill notes that seemed to clash together just as ostentatiously as his smirk. She liked it. It was much less boring than the classic playing a moment before. Before she could contemplate a response--let alone formulate her acceptance to sound as though she wasn't caving per say--she found herself drawn against him, his arm sweeping around her waist, strong fingers pressing bunched silver fabric into her hip and suddenly she finds herself wondering just how very thin the material was. Heart racing, she kept her jaw from dropping open through sheer stubbornness as he lifted her back up, letting her hand snake into his grip and the other slide around his shoulders with practiced grace. It was almost nonchalant a motion, despite how tightly he held her. A light smirk on her own lips, she parted them only to let out a heavy breath, press her chest to his--she leaned in closer, and closer, as if to answer his question--as if to do more than that--before spinning them herself. This was fortunate. A spell whizzed by them as they spun, striking one dancing behind them, illuminating them in a green, sharp light before they saw they fell lifeless without a sound. The ballroom was erupting all at once with shrieks, colors, sounds, glass, falling ceiling pieces and even a column she was sure had stood there for a hundred years. Breath difficult, and tears springing to her eyes from the rising dust, she only noticed now how she remained clutching Hector to her, face buried in his neck as he avoided another spell with another quick spin. Though she suspected his muttered spell to shield had been more prudent in saving them, she had another thought. It gripped her mind with a shiver she could not wholly reduce to fear (for Sofya Faye did not get scared, she got even). Their dance had turned from smirks, seductions, teases and tempting an angel. Now they openly taunted that devil named Death.* 

[fycourtera]

{chapter fourteen: 8} sofya, ronald, & hector

Sofya: I was enjoying myself, you know.

Ronald: Not as much as Benjamin was. *Honestly. His sister simply did not get this. He hands her a drink, saying calmly.* Here. 

Sofya: *amused lips twitch* Yes, because that fixes everything. *Taking the drink anyways* You already distrust my judgment--

Ronald: Surely you could find someone besides Benjamin Stenrosa to dance with.

Sofya: You realize I have danced in addition to Benjamin, with Thomas and half a dozen of the muggleborns here?

Ronald: I do. I'd prefer you keep doing that. 

Sofya: Well, aren't you the exact opposite of more than three quarters of the guests. You trust me with muggleborns, but not with the nobility. *Of course there was one muggleborn she had her eye on the entire evening, but that was a secret. Not her brother's business.*

Ronald: Only because you would not stay upstairs ill. *lips flick and gestures at her with his own glass* And then wore that.

Sofya: *chuckles under her breath* Mother gave me this dress, Ron.

Ronald: Well, Mother and I do not see eye to eye on this matter. *head shakes* Sofya--I just--

Sofya: I know. *exasperated* You have a rotten feeling about this evening, and that's why you are being more of a pain in my arse than usual.

Ronald: Yes. *firm nod, eyes darting around the room and then his glass stops half way to his mouth, and he blinks. Who was that?* 

Sofya: *eye rolls* Well, you're not alone. I believe everyone thinks tonight is a bad idea except those who hosted it--our aunt and uncle. Even they are wary of course; I cannot believe the amount of security outside, and while here the knights were all required to attend, so Father is more on duty than he is at a party, which is unfair but I do not think he minds. Mother minded more, which is typical and you are not listening to a word I am saying, are you? Brother? 

Ronald: Mm? *He doesn't move. His glass is still half way to his mouth, gaze transfixed.* 

Sofya: *Her lips twitch and she tilts her head to follow his gaze now, an eyebrow arching at the gown. And he was complaining about her dress?! Oh, brothers.* Enjoying a fantasy are you?

Ronald: M-- Wait. What?! *He turns back to his sister, unabashed and narrowing his eyes at her.* Sofya Alicia Faye-

Sofya: Full name? Oh, this must be serious-

Ronald: Be quiet. *He clears his throat, forcing his gaze to remain on her, and not on the entrancing, drop-dead gorgeous woman across the room. Unusually, he had no idea who she was, nor who she was talking to, but he certainly intended on finding out. In the thirty seconds (was it more than that?) he had looked over at the dark brunette with a near-exposed front in strings, his mind had moved to ... well, his sister was right. Unused to such a visceral reaction, he rubbed his chest and shook his head at her.* And Benjamin is-

Sofya: A bigger pain in the arse than you. You do not need to remind me.

Ronald: Than why were you--*he blinks and frowns*--no I don't want to know.

Sofya: *She winks.* Now, if you'll excuse me brother, I believe I have neglected greeting someone who has wanted my attention. *All right, she did this on purpose. She turned and walked away, handing him back the glass after taking a sip.*

Ronald: *He frowns instantly.* Sofya. Wait-- *But she was gone, and immediately all other thoughts were driven from his mind as he watched her position herself near someone, and the man who approached her. Biting his bottom lip, he decided to find someone who might know who this was and spun the other way.* 

Hector: *So many beautiful women, Hector almost didn't know what to make of them. Almost, because he was rather imaginative. Nevertheless, he behaved. As prissy as some of the noble-born ladies were, they couldn't help but to have their eyes wander over him. He was handsome, strong, and born of the dragon; there was just very little resistance to his allure and there was absolutely no one who could tell him otherwise. That was his reality, he lived in it. Problem was that he had been unsuccessful in approaching the redheaded beauty that had frequented his thoughts, though not for lack of trying. She was always surrounded by people and he understood; she was gorgeous, feisty, and she smelled like roses. That particular detail only registered a few days after he had taken her hostage for less than a minute, odd enough. Was that pathetic of him? Not really, given that he -had- invaded her personal boundary and smashed it to bits. Yet hope remained, and when he saw an opportunity, he grabbed it. Walking towards her with a grin on his face, he made a theatrical show of bowing* Sofya, Sof, my foxy lady. *He straightened up again, small smirk on his face* Having a lovely time? You all have...delicate, tastes. *Oh he was trying to behave, he really was, but this was such a bore. Thank God for good company.*

Sofya: *The exaggerated bow made her lips flick up in a smirk that only flicked wider as he met her gaze. Tilting her head in delight, she tucked a strand of hair back, asking first as her thumb came to toy with her lip* A fox? *She pulled her lip down and then nodded decidedly, delight coloring her gaze* Yes, actually, I think I quite like that.  *Delicate tastes, though? Oh, her contemporaries certainly did, but she pursed her lips and said sweetly, hand dropping* We are not all the same any more than you are, you know. *She continued, adding her own greeting after a moment* But where are my manners? Lovely to see you again, Hector. *And she moved the tiniest bit closer to her add in an under breath, not noticing that her whisper ghosted on his cheek and lips* Just tell me, should I be hiding the silver? *She pulled back with a high eyebrow and light smirk.* 

Hector: *Of course she did, the term had come from his lips but to say so out loud would only have her deny it or worse, deny him and go back to those pretty boys with combed back hairstyles.* I was trying to pay you all a compliment. You see, I was introduced to this new concept, it's called etiquette? I believe a person of your social stature would know of this already, of course. *He wiggled his eyebrows again, for teasing was too natural for him, and she was such a great girl to tease.* Oh it's a pleasure. *he licked his lips subconsciously as she stepped closer and whispered, a smirk crossing his lips* Why bother, when there's so much gold to be had instead? *he gestured, at the gold plates, gold goblets, gold gold gold.* But no, tonight I am a guest, and I will behave...to the best of my ability.

Sofya: *He was too much. Honestly. He had her smile with absurd ease; biting her bottom lip to forestall the amused smirk, she folded her hands, laid them on the skirt of her silver gown and continued with words so sickly-sweet she thought they dripped honey from her lips before brushing against his ear.* How charming a notion. I must say I do hope you succeed in the lessons, then for it would be frightfully rude of me to wish you ill on such a worthy endeavor. *Only then did she allow her lips to twitch, her smirk to widen, her chuckle to escape. Wiggling her own eyebrows to show her tease, her gaze didn't move (all right, it may have traced his lips for a heartbeat) as he gestured around them, saying instead* Truth be told I never liked gold all that much. *She patted her lustrous white-silvery skirt down, smoothing it out over her hip (and happening to lift it up, flutter it around her ankles).* Too ostentatious. *She continued to speak with the seemingly careless gesture, looking back up at his last words and suppressing a sudden chuckle.* Oh will you behave? Hm. I'm almost disappointed. 

Hector: *How could she manage to say things in the most prat-like ways and still have him smirk in amusement and delight? It must have been a womanly wile.* Why thank you, my foxy lady, but I can think of more worthy endeavors for this night. *See? He could talk like a prat too and without dropping any syllables either! Though that took more effort, as his tongue was used to more fluid movements.* Well, I don't know what ostentatious is but *shrugs* there is a reason I'm a blacksmith instead of goldsmith...though gold would be nice too, get me my own place finally. *He briefly considered that for a moment, nodding his head to himself before deciding he didn't really care right now, he much rather focus on her. He licked his lips* You did tell me I couldn't snatch you without asking first...*as if on cue, the song immediately changed to a much more familiar tune and his grin widened in genuine delight. He laughed out loud once and then wiggled his eyebrows at Sofya* May I have this dance, Sof? *grinning, he took her hand and then suddenly spun her quickly, taking a step closer to press against her before he dipped her and brought her back up with a snap (and a smirk)* I did ask first, love.

[courtera]

Ask before you—actually, choose a topic! Before you steal a wand, before you demand one’s name, before you restrain a woman against a wall. Asking seems to be something you missed in primary.

Sofya Faye

[courtera]

[courtera]

[fycourtera]

{chapter eleven: 10} hector & sofya

Hector: *She was following him. He couldn't keep an amused, and mostly invisible thanks to his spell, smirk off his face. Oh, he should simply continue to walk towards the woods and lose her among the trees- he knew them better than she did at least. Or he could climb a tree and wait for her to keep walking, take an opposite direction. Something of the sort. But...what would be the fun in that?* Have you come to punish me for my wicked ways, m'lady? *he laid against a tree, arms crossed in front of his chest, disillusionment still in place for the moment* Because I insist on having your name first, so I know what to yell out. Sofya: *Slowing, breath beating itself into her lungs, she spoke through hasty gasps and narrowed eyes. Disconcerted to hear a the disembodied voice, reminded of Alice and that mad cat, she first slid her wand free and cast a simple Homenum Revelio spell to at least let her know which direction she should be speaking. Her mouth dropping open at hid remark, she bit back the customary 'how dare you?' (for God Almighty knew she was not going to sound like her aunts), instead snapping* I have little interest in such punishment. You owe me an apology--and a reason I should not tell the knights precisely what I saw. *Her eyes narrow; there, that, at least she had something substantial* And I'm not giving my name to thin air. Hector: *Highborn or commoner, a woman's jaw dropped the same way upon certain affronts. Well, among other things but voicing such would probably make the lady in front of her turn as red as her hair. He had to be a bit more...courteous. He supposed. But playful he couldn't help but be.* I did apologize, m'lady. Right 'fore I snatched ya, and I was most sincere as well. Unless you want me to say sorry for sumthing else. *he chuckles* You're free to run along and inform your knights. I will be long gone by then, and you with nuthing but a name. That I coul've made up. *he pauses a moment* Nice wand, though. *he casted a non-verbal expelliarmus, hoping to disarm her so he could examine the wand for himself* Sofya: *Her nose wrinkled and her eyes crinkled before she remarked with barely a thought* Despite my certainty you are used to merely snatching women, I feel honor-bound to inform you it is not the way to go about such things. *her mouth tightened, continuing despite the fact that truthfully she didn't see herself turning him in unless she returned to discover some higher offense than a few missing weapons* Name made up or not, I have a fair image of you. It would be easy to point you out in to--*Her wand suddenly sprang free and she exhaled in shock, hand grasping thin air as it flew away from her. Scowling, she launched herself after it, ignoring how her heels tangled incongruently with the forest floor, stopping in front of where her wand disappeared--which had to mean he was holding it, and promptly smacked him. Her eyes narrowed, continuing* My name, as you did insist, is Sofya Faye. *She held her hand out and let her wand fly back into her palm with her own wandless, non verbal, summon, eyes narrowed at him.* And you have to ask! Hector: Only the ones who want to be snatched, o'course. *nodding, a small smirk present on his face even if she couldn't see it.* But can you be sure it is my true face? *he caught the wand easily in his hand, examining it for the brief couple of seconds he had it, before she slapped him. Her hand miscalculated and her palm ended up making contact with mostly his jaw but he couldn't be too angry about that- he deserved it. Though the smack was enough to break his concentration, and instantly he felt the trickle of water down his back feeling that meant the spell lifted.* Oww. *though he grinned* Pleasure to meet you, Sof. *Was the last name supposed to scare him or intimidate him? It did neither.* Ask whut? Sofya: I did not want to be snatched. *Instantly, pointedly, her heart hammering and ignoring the fact she'd naturally imitated his speaking voice with her "snatched." As the spell lifted and he came back into sight, she paid no attention to the 'oww'; he'd deserved it, and besides, she knew she'd mainly missed (her hand smarted for what it had collided with his jaw). Blinking just once as he shortened her name with a completely improper amount of familiarity, she scowled as she continued* Ask before you--actually, choose a topic! Before you steal a wand, before you demand one's name, before you restrain a woman against a wall. Asking seems to be something you missed in primary. *She exhales, a bit more at ease as she was at least able to see him, and he was still grinning now* What did you do? *She jerked back over her shoulder with her thumb* Why in the world did you take weapons? *She was paying no attention to the fact she was technically alone in the woods with a muggleborn who had proven already a thief and annoyance: she knew what others would say about that and frankly, she did not give a damn.* You're making the argument that your...kind, are not inherently violent, increasingly difficult you know. Hector: *he laughed once, licking his lips as he nodded* Oh yes, that would have gone over well. "Excuse me, m'lady? Would you consent to being restrained and pressed against the wall?" *lips twitch* I'll keep that in mind though, just in case. *He could have made the argument that he hadn't gone to primary, given that the only school in Faye was headed by his grandmother and aunt, and it was unofficial, funded by themselves and unfortunately, did not start offering daily classes until well after his primary years.* Plan to sell 'em, melt 'em down to mold'em into tools, equip a small army, add it to my sword collection- pick one, Sof. Your favorite, dusn't matter to me. *shrugs and then raises his eyebrow* My kind. How incredible progressive of you. Sofya: *Okay, he had a point. ...But that didn't matter: she was still right. Wrong-footed thus only a second, she said without shame*...It would have been polite of you at least. *She usually attempted not to scowl so much, particularly on a bright, however chilly day such as this one. He was making it difficult, however much she tried to remember her lady mother's edicts on the necessity of kindness and turning the other cheek.* Sofya, *she pointed out non-deterred* And equipping a small army is what others are afraid of. *She folds her arms on her chest now, tucking her wand back between her fingers, looking back up at his remark.* There's no need to be condescending, I was being polite. Do you have another word you'd prefer I use? The term doesn't matter for my point stands: the argument you're not a threat becomes difficult when you make yourself in fact, a threat. Hector: Wusn't taught manners. Sorry. *his lips twitched in the irony of his own statement; apologies after a declaration of having no courtesy. Well, it was mostly true. His parents were exactly the most...calm and collected people. Any and all matters he did possess he acquired from his gran, and she all but beat them into him.* So-fy-a. *he enunciated every syllable mockingly as she corrected him. She corrected him frequently, but at least she was looking good doing it* Make more swords, I'm no threat. *he shrugs, not really willing to explain himself on why he was taking them, figuring she might have second thoughts about running out and calling the knights if she believed him associated with his uncle. Which he was, but like he had said, he didn't want to go to prison* Unless you want me to be. Is that why you came chasing after me, So-fy-a? Like the thrill of the danger? Sofya: *In retrospect she shouldn't have corrected him on her name. "Sof" was, while being much too familiar for a ten minute old acquaintanceship that involved her slapping him and him holding her captive (oh and..right, their respective classes too) -- it was at least without mockery or elongating syllables that were meant to be silent. She exhaled in frustration as he continues, cheeks warm with her heated exhale* Theft of weapons isn't benign! And I came chasing after you because--*Er, why had she again? She couldn't remember: she just hadn't wanted to let him get away that easily after using her so. She couldn't say it was to hit him after berating him for lacking manners either (say what you want about Fayes, and people did, but she tried not to be as hypocritical as others). So instead she heard herself snap*--Because I didn't want you to get away without at least explaining your abhorrent actions. *she exhales* You just robbed my family--who by the way, honestly have been trying to help you: I am not content to merely let you silence me against a wall. Hector: Nobles. Always one extreme or the other with you, ain't it? *Just because his action wasn't explicitly 'benign' didn't make it monstrously evil either. He shook his head, briefly amused as she hesitated a moment for the reason and then raised his eyebrows* Oh I see. *Yes, a lot of help they've been lately. Trying to capture his uncle, they should get a medal for their deeds! How brave and noble of them* Then what would you have me do to make you content, Sofya? *he smirked. He could phrased that a lot more...crudely, he knew, but he didn't want to disgust her. Just annoy her, get under her skin.* Sofya: What does that mean? *She thought she was being insulted, but she didn't get why. Heart still seeming to thud painfully loudly, she reached a hand to her hair to free tangled strands before continuing* No, it depends why you stole them--but I just meant, you clearly didn't mean well, even if you didn't mean particular ill--it...*her head hurt. She released the strands, hand flapping down in frustration and looking to the ground, muttering* Oh bloody hell. *Only she looked back up a moment later at his remark, startled by the question. Cheeks still warm, she was forced to take a moment to catch her breath, and then spoke simply* You could start by telling me your whole name, Hector, without lying to me. I did you that courtesy, didn't I? * Hector: Meant exactly what it said. *he shrugged* No middle ground with you lot, and if there is, damn if you'll admit it. *That was in his experience in dealing with nobles, though, and granted he did not have much. If Leah was on the extreme 'benign' then the Sheriff was definitely on the extreme 'ill' side. God, he hated that man.* I mean to protect my family. *There, that was an explanation, as good as any.  His lips twitched in a smirk, he was almost disappointed she didn't try to hit him again. Ah well.* I s'ppose. *grins* Hector Crixus Stone, m'lady. And yes. That Stone. Sofya: That is a gross exaggeration of a characterized stereotype of "nobles." *had said it promptly, stung by the accusation, before realizing that perhaps those words weren't the clearest to illustrate her point with a boy who kept dropping syllables. Though now she missed 'Sof' (her mind was working in a weird way--even she could admit that). So she rephrased.* I'm not stuck in one extreme viewpoint, Hector. *She nods as he continues and then suddenly straightens in shock. No doubt about it, her heart definitely skipped its beat now. Blinking once more, she forced a swallow* Oh. It--...*She didn't have anything to say, she realized for a few moments, and so she said instead* ...all right so it might not seem like we've been trying to help you, then. *Fairly, but adds earnestly* But that is an extreme viewpoint too, I swear. Hector: Smaller words, luv. *Not that he couldn't understand it, but he'd rather just get straight to the point instead of having to sort through frilly wording* S'ppose not, you haven't turn me in, at least. *For some odd strange reason that he doubted she knew either. The reaction had been expected but it was no less aggravating. Pursing his lips together, he shrugged* No, not really. 'Less you call the sheriff comin' in and interrogating and threatening my family friendly. Might as well be lepers now in this sodding town. *he shrugged again, clearing his throat and then leans off the tree* Listen, Sof, Sofya, luv, my-feisty-lady, it's been a pleasure, mutual one I'm sure, but I gotta go. Just need to know whether I need to pack my bags the moment I get home or not. *he raised his eyebrows awaiting her answer.* Sofya: The sherrif's an arse. *Her words were abrupt, nose wrinkling as she spoke up and chin lifting. If Ronald was right, which her brother usually was, then there were some very strange circumstances around the attack and she didn't know anymore what she believed about it. Except for one thing: whatever his relative had done, it didn't mean he and the family should be threatened, and that was just bloody that. Her lips twitching a little bit as he cycled through his names for her now and cleared her throat before saying deliberately slowly* I...don't think you need to, no, but I would appreciate a promise you don't just grab me next time nonetheless before I would be certain enough to say you don't. Hector: *eyebrows arched immediately before he smirked* Well that was saucy. *Granted, he was used to girls with cruder insults, but it was still pleasant to hear her say it. He waited for her to deliberate and then grinned* I promise not to snatch you without permission. *But he was not making any promises about walls, just in case. He takes her hand gingerly and then kisses the back of it once, winking at her* That wasn't snatching. Good day, Sof. *he drops her hand and then turns around, running off again, grin wide*

[fycourtera]

{chapter eleven: 6} hector & sofya.

Hector: *hearing the echo of someone actually raising the alarm for his heist, he grinned briefly at first, hearing the obvious anger in the voice and then realized he was suddenly very exposed. Damn redheads, they'd be the death of him, his father always said so. Looking around briefly, he needed to act quickly before the voices grew closer.* Sorry m'lady-- *he snatched her, arms wrapping around her waist easily and moving her backwards and sideways, against the wall of a corner that was thankfully obscured in shadow. He whispered a spell to keep her limbs pinned to the wall-- he had very fragile equipment he didn't want kicked. And the swords too. Pressing a hand against her mouth, the other holding her waist down, he whispered a shhh near her ear. He'd have traded a couple of acorns for knowledge of the silencing spell right at that moment, actually. He was too pretty to go to prison.* Sofya: *She had been about to respond again, wrong-footed by his comments--but undeniably amused and delighted, when the alarm clearly went up. The echo made her swivel, scarlet strands whipping around before she felt his arm. Her exclamation swallowed in his palm, she struggled--lifting her foot and stamping down on his toe. It was a vague attempt at the back of her mind to get her heel to strike through his boot. Unsuccessful, she continued shaking her head, startled to feel the spell snapping her limbs in place--Hector was muggleborn. Her hazel eyes went wide. Muggleborn, and judging by his instant reaction, the one they were looking for. Heart pounding, breath catching, she hastened to quell fear...only to realize she didn't feel any. Yes he was muggleborn, yes he was clearly there illegal somehow, but all she felt when he hissed that she shush in her ear was aggravation and frustration. He was tall, his weight and warmth against her stifling. There was dirt on his rough hand; the tight muscles she'd been admiring suddenly becoming the weight of manacles around her, body pressed against his as he crouched them in the shadows. Her nose wrinkled, making another insistent squeal against his tight palm, struggling to breathe, eyes narrowed in anger at him. He had one minute, before she used her own spells on him, and she wouldn't be so kind as to merely restrain him. Sofya's eyes made that damn clear.* Hector: *Of course she would have put up a fight, should have known better really, but he was momentarily surprised that he was deriving some enjoyment from it. Maybe it was her glare, yes, combined with the heavy exhale from her nose as her chest rose up and down against his, a rather naughty sort of rhythm if you thought about it.* Fiesty. Suits you, m'lady. *he commented only after the guard had moved past him and the alleyway, voices and footsteps growing fainter* I would beg pardon and say I'm not usually this forward but, I am. *he grinned in wicked delight, winking once* I trust m'lady can liberate herself from her magical bindings. *he then took his hands back, bowed in a mocking sort of way before he whispered a spell for disillusionment, still uncomfortable with the feeling of cold water sliding down your back as it took effect.* By your leave, m'lady. *except of course he didn't actually wait, he left the shadowed corner of that alley and started for the forest- it'd be safer to leave through there, Karyn could get out of there well enough herself, she just had to bat her pretty lashes and request an escort out of there, surely. He didn't have quite the same advantage.* Sofya: *The. nerve. of. him. Her breath still heated, she instinctively tried to lift her knee into him. Seeing his wicked delight made her want to bite his hand, though she had only succeeded in barely pinching skin between her teeth by the time he'd withdrawn. Her words were instantly snapped through a scowl* Touch me again and you're drawing back stumps, Hector. *She didn't care for the familiarity in that moment, much rather would have insulted him but as she only had the knowledge he was muggleborn to find a slur with--and had a natural distaste for such language--she didn't. Instead she hopped off the wall after freeing herself, frustrated he was already running into the cover of woods and promptly started running after him, following without a care in the world for what had happened. She didn't give a damn about catching him for the sake of the court--only about catching him and at least hitting him for imprisoning her so. He didn't get to do that. Nor did he get to enjoy it so much. She refused. She hopped over a branch, still running, her long legs finally assisting her in something. And all the ladies at court said she was too tall.*

[fycourtera]

{chapter eleven: 3} hector & sofya.

Sofya: *Her brother, for all his charms and niceties, could sometimes be the most aggravating prat in the world. Oh sure, his intent was to keep her safe, keep her out of harms way--but as at that moment it involved keeping her completely uninformed--she did not approve. Did he imagine she was deaf and ignorant of events? Did he think she couldn't handle herself? She was seventeen now, and more than aware of the fragile position their uncle was in and what it had done to her family name. These thoughts and others less polite chased themselves in circles as she decidedly changed directions, walking around the armory and ducking into the alley way behind it after a few minutes. Let the boys (and Leah--she remembered with a smug moment of delight for her cousin) continue their games of whacking each other with steel, she didn't want to interrupt them. No, what Sofya wanted was information. Which...she suddenly was presented in the sight of someone falling to the ground with obvious practice at hoisting-themselves-through-windows, and she straightened her back in surprise, less than fifty paces from him now. Opening her mouth to shout out, she thought better of it, even though her eyes stayed wide. Her question was hesitant.* What exactly are you doing--? Hector: *he froze in place for a moment as he heard a voice behind him as he closed the window. Turning around, he attempted to gather his wits and come up with an excuse. A feat that was only proving to be more difficult by how gorgeous the girl was. And redheaded- it's like someone up there knew his weaknesses. God, he knew they weren't exactly on the best of terms but did the Lord almighty up above have to be so cruel?* M'lady. *well, that was a start. Even if the word was not one he was accustomed to saying. He gestured to the armory* I was polishing some armor when I locked myself in, couldn't get out. *Yes, good, that was quite brilliant of him.* I'll just be on my way then. Sofya: *As he turned around, Sofya was surprised to realize he was so close to her own age--having oddly thought he was much older than that from the back. It was his build, he decided, trying to focus on the matter at hand--his build, and the tone in his arms, these were irrelevant facts. Her gaze cast up to the window, and then she looked back down, still walking a few steps forward, closer to him. While his story could be true, she thought it was still a story for a few reasons, the least of which being his expression and the words she couldn't help herself from uttering with a healthy skepticism.* You locked yourself in? ...from both doors? Hector: *It was too much to hope that she would be a dainty and ditzy little creature, he realized soon enough. She was not buying a lick of it, or probably a lick, but definitely not a swallow.* ...there's two doors? *of course there was two doors, but if he was going to play the fool, he'd better play it convincingly. He chuckled, channeling whatever nervousness he'd ever had as a young boy, into that little exclamation* I didn' think to look, terribly sorry m'lady. I'm jus' a poor farmer's boy, whut do I know? *How to turn weapons into nuts. And vice versa.* Sofya: *Both her eyebrows arched a bit at his remarks, amusement crossing her lips in spite of herself. She hadn't seen him here before--but then the court employed hundreds of servants, she didn't expect she'd recognize all of them. Regardless, this boy was, at the very least funny. And his grin struck her in an odd way, making her smile at him even as she continued to ask suspiciously* ...are you having a go at me? *She lifted a hand to her hair, not knowing why she thought there was more going on here than it appeared. Maybe she just wanted there to be. She wanted to prove to her brother she was useful, after all. And this boy...his exclamation had made her laugh.* I'm not so easy to fool, Mr... Hector: A go at you, m'lady? Never. *shakes his head, having to bite down on his lips to keep a remark at bay after having licked his lips subconsciously. No wooing on a mission, there would be time for that later...well, obviously, not with this pretty number but ah well. Chasing highborn tail was his uncle's thing. Actually, uncles, though he had never met the other one.* Hector, m'lady, and trust me, you look the farthest thing from a fool. *his lips twitched- oh he needed to keep his mouth shut. Whoops. Last one.*