Blood is thicker than water ( EB part 9 )

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Blood is thicker than water ( EB part 9 )

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The Fox

The Fox

@disqus_eqavLvmRDA a year ago

Me *finally getting back into the rp groove*

* Discussion closes*

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I'm not even mad, just mildly perturbed. It's just every TIME man...

* shakes head*

Anyways, onto the rp!

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The Fox • a year ago

Jekyll1886:

"[Thanks for the warning]," Weir returned.

When he comes too close to consciousness, I may have to sedate him...

He frankly concurred with Desirae's assessment of Peverell. The man struck Lewis as a less ambitious but no less annoying version of Moriarty.

Weir was not, however, willing to risk going to prison over his murder.

Lewis gave the two their privacy, concentrating instead on the scenery passing by and keeping watch for anyone with ill intent who might spot them.

It was with relief that he felt the cab came to a stop at the railway station. He paid the driver and roused Desirae.

"[We're here.]"

--

She opened her eyes with a breath. With a stretch, she straightened out her back and stroked the side of Richard's face with a contemplative look.

Desirae knew she wasn't leaving him for good. He was merely going to be down in Calais recovering...

She should feel happy right now, or at least hopeful...

Tears budded at the edge of her eyes.

Her heart beat against her chest, calling to keep him close. It took a painful effort to keep from latching onto him and never letting go.

A couple tears ran down her face.

Desirae wiped them away and pushed away her sudden heartbreak. Instead, she leaned in for one last passionate embrace. Her lips pressed against his with love beyond words stayed there for full minute.

Then, with a few breathes, she steadied herself for his departure. She turned to Lewis.

" [ We're ready... ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis turned his head to give them some privacy, but couldn't help looking back at them sidelong every so often. He reflected that Richard was a very lucky man indeed to have someone who loved him like that.

"[Alright.]"

He exited the cab and hoisted Enfield over his shoulder once more.

"[Take care, Desirae]," he whispered so softly no one else could overhear. He hoped that it simply appeared to the driver as if he were whispering sweet nothings in her ear. "[Lay low for awhile if you can. I know people in The Silver Line saw us leaving. Stay safe.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Thank you. I don't think I'll be too troubled since no one seemed to recognize me through my disguise. Better safe than sorry though. ] "

She smiled at Lewis, her eyes filled with a trusting light.

" [ Take care. And don't forget to write. ] "

With that, she bid the driver to take them back into the city and left them to board their train.

---

Utterson stood on the main deck with an anxious glance over the gathering crowd. He pulled out his watch and checked the time.

" Where are they??? "

The luggage was already on the train, save for the carpet bag, and he had been waiting for the others to appear.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Au revoir."

Lewis smiled as she left. There was just something about her...

* * *

Weir appeared on the platform and made his way to Gabriel as quickly as he could, given his burden.

"Good to see you," managed Lewis, his face lighting up at the sight of his friend. "Shall we?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Ah! Lewis "

Gabriel was immediately relieved to see Lewis there with Richard in tow.

" Yes! Let's do! "

Utterson and went ahead in front and explain that one of his friend's " grew ill " and had to be carried. The employee seemed confused, a little put off, but otherwise let Lewis and Richard board.

Once they got on, Utterson checked around for their compartment, then offered to help Lewis sit Richard down into one of the seats.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis did just that. Soon, they were all settled and the train was ready to depart. It was only once it started to roll out of the station that Weir breathed a sigh of relief and slumped back in his seat, exhausted.

A mild chuckle.

"I daresay Richard could stand to lose some weight."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" He's certainly gained a little bit since he left London. "

Utterson rubbed his neck.

" Though, that said, he should be able to lose it easily if he's anything like me.

My father once told me that my kin were natural workers. If we weren't working, we'd grow soft. "

A laugh.

" That's why I'm in my seventies and still as ripe as ever. We don't waste away easily. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"That's good," asserted Lewis.

He took out his small journal and transferred Desirae's addresses to it, then handed the paper she'd given him to Gabriel and explained what they were and what she had said about them.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Ah, thank you! "

Utterson stowed the paper away in his coat pocket.

" So now that we're on our way, what's the plan once we hit Calais? Are we going to stay with your friend? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"When we reach Calais, we're going to find a ship back to England, be it Dover or London. My friend's in the south of France at present, unfortunately," he revealed.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Oh...So that means... "

He blinked, surprised.

" So if we aren't going to stay, what's going to happen to Richard's home? I have no doubt that Peverell will raid it once he finds out he's gone. "

Gabriel's brow wrinkled in serious thought.

" And that's not considering how treacherous this appears... "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Gabriel, they were going to kill him. We're lucky to have gotten him out alive, never mind the house. Desirae insisted on staying in Paris, but she'll be lucky to come out of this unscathed--I do hope she lies low for the time being."

A sigh.

"The bottom line is, Paris is and will be unsafe for all of us so long as Peverell lives. There's simply nothing for it.

"If Richard is fortunate, perhaps he'll be able to sell the house through an agent. If he's unfortunate, Peverell may burn it to the ground."

He shook his head.

"That said, we came out as well as we could, I think, given the circumstances," he opined with a shrug.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Right, right... "

He looked down with his feet unhappily.

" I'm sorry...

I just didn't think to pack anything outside of the necessary. There was too much to look through to even consider it. "

Utterson gave a sheepish shrug.

" I managed to find just a few things that he might've wanted to take, some of his literature...Just little things I thought would help, but nothing really notable.

It's better than nothing though. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"It certainly is," agreed Lewis. "Thank you, by the by.

"Did you, by chance, happen to pack the picture of his mother?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Of course! Wouldn't think to leave it! "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Naturally," agreed Lewis with a relieved smile. "That and the bottles you brought are all that really matter, I believe."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I think so too. I certainly believe that after this morning. "

He smiled at his cousin, a soft fondness in his eyes.

" He's a good man. It may not always show underneath his temper or his actions, but he has a good heart. "

A pause. A laugh.

" Do want to know what I think? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis nodded in agreement with Gabriel's assessment.

The latter laughed.

"Certainly," replied Weir.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" I think the only reason he makes things difficult is because he feels that it's only way he feels he can see that people care about him. That's why he always picks a fight.

If you leave, it shows that you did care. If he leaves, he makes you care. "

A breath.

" He always loses, but at least he lost knowing there was something there to lose. "

A shake of the head.

" Forgive me if that was obvious. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"No no, it's quite insightful, I think," returned Lewis. "It makes a great deal of sense, and helps explain his behavior rather nicely."

A pause, and a soft chuckle.

"I do hope he understands kidnapping him was a form of saying, 'We care.'"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Well, once we explain the situation to him, I think he will. Without context, he might just think we're stealing him away since he 'gave in' this morning. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"A very good point."

* * *

The journey to Calais was blessedly uneventful. Richard dozed, Lewis and Gabriel got something to eat, and the latter two looked at scenery and had further conversation along the way.

The train rolled into Calais's station with its normal screeeeeeeech and soon came to a stop.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

Utterson perked up as the train came to a stop, stretching his back out and reaching for his crutches.

" Finally! We've made good time. If we can book an early boat, I'd say we'd be back on English soil as soon as tomorrow. "

He went to stand up.

" Now, let's go and see to our-- "

" HhhhhhhhrnnnnnghhhhHHHhh... "

Utterson swiftly turned to find a drowsy eyed Richard coming to. A shiver ran through the man followed by a long yawn. His hand reached for a drink that wasn't there.

" F*cking hell... "

His hand felt around for a couple seconds before he bothered to look where he was reaching. He grew confused, letting out a harsh cough before he could ask who moved his bottle.

" Good afternoon to you sleepyhead. "

Enfield looked up at Gabriel, who smiled and put a hand on his shoulder.

" We were just about to go walking. Want to join us? "

" Walk? Walk where? "

" Just around the area. It isn't any different from walking around the park. "

He hooked Richard's arm with his.

" Come! I think it'll do you some good. "

Enfield sniffed, getting up with an unsteady step. He coughed again.

" Sure...why not... "

" That's the spirit! "

Utterson chuckled as he managed to loop his occupied arm back to his crutches and hobbled forward while also helping his kin navigate his surroundings.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

( Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus

porta, magna id gravida varius, quam leo pretium odio, id pharetra nisl

neque pulvinar nibh. Ut lectus leo, sollicitudin quis malesuada at,

euismod eget arcu. Duis pharetra purus in facilisis vulputate. Praesent

maximus ex non tortor cursus, eu finibus lorem congue. In consequat,

massa at luctus suscipit, neque eros volutpat nisi, non tincidunt enim

nunc sed erat. Maecenas non dapibus urna, non faucibus mauris. In mattis )

Utterson perked up as the train came to a stop, stretching his back out and reaching for his crutches.

" Finally! We've made good time. If we can book an early boat, I'd say we'd be back on English soil as soon as tomorrow. "

He went to stand up.

" Now, let's go and see to our-- "

" HhhhhhhhrnnnnnghhhhHHHhh... "

Utterson swiftly turned to find a drowsy eyed Richard coming to. A shiver ran through the man followed by a long yawn. His hand reached for a drink that wasn't there.

" F*cking hell... "

His hand felt around for a couple seconds before he bothered to look where he was reaching. He frowned, letting out a harsh cough before he could ask who moved his bottle.

" Good afternoon to you sleepyhead. "

Enfield looked up at Gabriel, who smiled and put a hand on his shoulder.

" We were just about to go walking. Want to join us? "

" Walk? Walk where? "

" Just around the area. It isn't any different from walking around the park. "

He hooked Richard's arm with his.

" Come! I think it'll do you some good. "

Enfield sniffed, getting up with an unsteady step. He coughed again.

" Sure...why not... "

" That's the spirit! "

Utterson chuckled as he managed to loop his occupied arm back to his crutches and hobbled forward while also helping his kin navigate his surroundings.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis, relieved to see Gabriel arrest Richard's attention, decided to quietly follow them out, lest Weir's presence prove distracting and make Enfield question what they were doing on a train or where they were.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Gabriel stepped out of the train with Richard in tow, a smile on the former, a scowl on the latter. With a grumble, Enfield blocked out the sun with his hand as he followed his cousin towards the baggage car.

A few people cast a curious glance their way but most simply took them to be an odd couple traveling abroad.

It took a little finesse to maneuver the crowd, but they managed to get to the front of the crowd and watch as hired hands unloaded the luggage.

Utterson turned to Enfield.

" Now, I'm going to need a helping hand with some of this. Do you think you can manage that? "

He got a noncommittal murmur for an answer.

" Alright then. I'll take that as a yes. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis lent a helping hand as well.

Before long, they were settled in a carriage that took them to the quay.

Once there, Weir arranged for passage to London proper, having had enough of trains for one day.

They still had some time to get a bite to eat before the ship departed.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

The same thought seemed to pass through Utterson as well.

With a clap, he looked to his companions.

" So shall we eat before we leave? "

" Yes please... "

Despite his lethargic state, Richard seemed intent on having something to munch on and possibly a drink or two as well. Instinctively, he went to reach for a cigarette but found none in his pockets.

Gabriel shook his head with a sympathetic smile. He rubbed his kin's shoulder and brought back his attention.

" So there's one vote.

How about you Lewis? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"I could do with a little something, certainly," Weir agreed.

The three of them got their things stowed on the ship, then found a restaurant a street or two off the main road that had decent prices and food to match.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

They drifted into a little open table next to a window, just wide enough for four people. Utterson helped Enfield take a seat before he settled into his own, leaning his crutches against the empty seat beside him.

He spotted a maid and waved her over with a polite nod. She came over and asked what they would like.

" [] Water please. [] "

A nudge to Richard, who was staring out the window.

" Oh? Ummm...

][ Can I have some Absinthe? ][ "

A firmer nudge.

" ][ Alright, a Calvados instead. ][ "

Gabriel tugged on his ear disapprovingly.

" ][ Water please. ][ "

" And you Lewis? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Looks like I'm having water as well, thought Weir with an internal grumble.

Yet he knew it wouldn't do to tempt Richard.

"[Water, thank you]," he told her.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

She nodded.

" [ Give me a minute and I'll have your waters ready. ] "

With that she left a billet on their table and went to fetch their drinks. The lawyer let the others look at it first before looking at it himself.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis looked it over and made his decision.

The food, at least, will be good, he consoled himself, mouth watering at the thought.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Here. Enfield. "

Seeing as Lewis had made his choice, Utterson borrowed it and let Enfield read it over. He sat patiently as the other took his time deciding, mulling over his decision himself so that he could be ready to order as well.

The maid came back with their drinks, Richard still stared at the billet.

" [ So you ready to order yet? ] "

" [] Y-yes. [] "

Utterson sat up, clearing his throat.

" [] I'll have some Waterzooi. What about you Richard? What would you like?[] "

A pause. A murmur.

" What was that? "

" I'll take a Jambon-beurre with a cut of Mariolles Cheese. "

" Are you sure? "

" Yes muintir. "

" Alright then. "

He relayed his order to the woman. She made note of it and waited for Lewis to state his.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis muffled a chuckle when Utterson ordered.

"[I'll have the Waterzooi as well.]"

After she'd left, he stated, "This is why we're good traveling companions."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Well, thank you. I try. "

He rubbed his neck with a sheepish grin.

" I doubt anyone would make for a good companion if they never tried anything new. Can't exactly grow if you're not willing to explore. "

An distant, thoughtful look came into his eyes.

" To be honest, this adventure has shown me how much I've been missing, how much I've holed myself up these last few years.

The more I think, the more I realize how much time I've spent moping around the house and using work as an excuse to hide from others. Ever since Jekyll and Hastie opened up The Society, I've kept to myself mostly, really only going out to walk or meet clients.

It wasn't till I met you that I've been getting out more often. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis nodded in agreement with Gabriel's statement about exploring.

As Utterson continued, his words touched Weir's heart.

I made a difference, realized Lewis, a genuinely happy smile spreading to grace his face.

"I'm glad we chanced to meet, Gabriel. For many reasons," he agreed. "If not for you, I'd certainly not have made the trip to Paris. Nor would I have had gotten to meet your cousin," he said with a gracious dip of his head in Enfield's direction. Nor Desirae, nor Florine. Nor Malemi. "Nor would I know the great pleasure of having such a steadfast friend. Really, I've much to thank you for," he owned.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

He blinked, surprised and humbled.

" A-ah! Well thank you!

I'm glad I've been good to you, especially since I'm something of an old fuddy duddy. "

A timid laugh.

" I can imagine people see me more as a parent than a friend, no thanks to profession or my age. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"People see what they want to see. And friendship is a thing not subject to the body's age--I've seen old souls in destitute children, and eighty-year-old MPs with souls that metaphorically belonged in nappies," Weir said with a chuckle. "There's just no telling."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" True. We are who we are no matter how we change. "

He took a sip of water then ran a hand through Enfield's hair.

" And if there was any doubt, we have proof right here! "

His quip was met with a tired glance from his kin, the thinnest of smiles visible as he pushed away Gabriel's hand.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Very true." In the end as in the beginning, we're simply...ourselves. The only difference is acceptance.

Weir was happy to see them getting along at last.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Utterson chuckled, happy to see his cousin smiling, when the made came back with their dishes in hand.

" Here you are gentlemen! "

She placed the dishes in front of each person, with a thank you from the two cousins, and leaving with a wave.

Gabriel closed his eyes and let the smell of the briny dish fill his nose. A contented sigh followed, and soon, he was exploring his food with his spoon. Enfield, meanwhile, was working on his sandwich with a slow but vigorous appetite, breaking off a piece of cheese in between mouthfuls.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis threaded the fine line between greedy gusto and delicate relish as he enjoyed his meal.

When everyone had finished and the bill had been paid, they made their way out to the docks. It was nearly time to board the ship.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

After their meal, Richard started to fall back into napping, his feet dragging behind him as his eyes drooped close every couple of minutes. And like any good family, Utterson helped him get from place to place, keeping him awake just enough to board the ship when the time came.

Sea birds called in the sky above as the ship came into port and the crew tended to the ship, shipping things off and taking thing on, restocking their supplies as necessary.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

The channel crossing was blessedly uneventful.

The stars were just beginning to show themselves by the time the ship docked in London and the trio disembarked on the north bank of the Thames.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

On the carriage ride back, as RIchard was in between drifting in between sleep and wakefulness, Utterson leaned in and whispered to Lewis.

" So what the plan from here? We still have to wean him off everything. Did you want to stay at my home for the night? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Weir had wanted to see Hela and Malemi, but a thought occurred to him:

Now's the riskiest period for Richard, and I don't want to let Gabriel down...

Surely Hela or Helen--and Malemi--can pass one night more before we meet again--'tis not as if I've telegraphed to say I'm coming home.

"I suppose so, if it's alright. Shall we take shifts?" he suggested.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I think that would help, yes. "

He cast a glance over his shoulder before he continued.

" I only have one guest room, but if you like, you can sleep in my room and I'll take the first shift. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"That works well. I've some things I need to do in the morning. When do you think I should come back after that?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" Around mid-day would do. I think I can manage that before he realizes where he is. "

A pause.

" That said, he might realize that much earlier so...

Should you leave before that, Can I hold onto the memo? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Naturally," replied Lewis with a ready nod. "I think whoever's on duty should keep hold of it, frankly."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Then it's settled. We start once we drop your things off. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Oh, no," he politely demurred, "don't trouble yourself. After all, if I'm staying the night, I had probably best keep my things at hand."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Ah, alright then. "

He leaned back into his seat.

" Home it is. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

The driver was informed of the change in destination, and the carriage was soon at Utterson's house. The fare was paid, the luggage unloaded and brought inside, and Richard guided.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

The home was just as cozy as it looked, it's decor sincere and unassuming, limiting itself to only what was necessary. The earthy tones of the walls radiated with a casual friendliness, a safe feeling that was more than welcome after their flight for France.

Utterson took his cousin up to his guest, a nice blue room, if a little small, that had a relaxed, water inspired wallpaper.

They tucked Enfield in and drew the canopy closed, their ward finally secure in fresh cotton linens, and then showed his own bedroom to Lewis. In contrast to the soft blue of the other room, Gabriel's room was a moss green, sparse furnished with only a lowboy, wardrobe and a bench, and a coal stove in the corner.

He struck a match and lit a nearby candle.

" Here we are... "

With the same match, he lit the stove then cracked the window open. That done, he then went and pulled the drapes open and pulled back the covers.

" What's mine is yours! And if you'll excuse me, I'll be back in half an hour or so. "

He smiled and shut the door behind as he left.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Thank you, Gabriel. Best of luck," returned Lewis.

After Utterson had left the room, Weir went on and washed up, then dressed for bed. It was with relief that he fell back to sprawl upon the mattress and pillows, glad to finally stretch out after being cooped up inside trains and ships and carriages.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

And so, Utterson began his shift. It was slow going for the older gentleman, no thanks to how long he'd been awake already, but he managed to keep from dozing off. He played a game of cards by himself, smoked his pipe, and caught up with some much due reading in the candlelight.

Out of kindness, he stayed there for an hour versus half, letting Lewis get his sleep in before his turn came. It was also how long he felt he could go before truly nodding off.

He slipped into his bedroom with a light knock.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis had pulled the bed-curtains closed before falling fast asleep.

When Gabriel knocked, Weir--or, more properly, Henry--was dreaming and smiling at his dreams. To be in Utterson's company was the feeling of coming home to a place and person he cherished.

"Mm?" he managed with a sleepy shift of position, still not quite fully awake.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" It's your turn to burn the midnight oil. "

He slipped in with an unintentional yawn and came up to the bedside.

" He's still asleep, but I figure he might wake up here soon since he's been sleeping all day. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

A like yawn emanated from the person in bed, and he sat up.

A moment or two later, Lewis pulled back the bed-curtains and slid out of bed to stand before Gabriel.

"Thank you for telling me," replied Weir. "I'll keep a close eye on him."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" No, thank you for staying to night. "

He smiled.

" It's not like you had to stay. Anyways, don't let me keep you. "

He moved past Weir and kicked his shoes off, taking his place beneath the sheets. With one last yawn, he turned to his side and tucked an arm beneath his pillow.

" I'll be here if you need me. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis smiled.

"Sleep well, Gabriel. Goodnight."

He put on his slippers, picked up the note, and made his way to the guestroom, where he began his vigil.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

The shift went well for the first twenty-five minutes. All was quiet and still as expected, save for the ticking of a grandfather clock down the hall.

It was when the clock struck two twenty nine that things started getting loud.

More specifically, when Richard woke up.

--

Everything was nice at first.

Richard took a slow breath before cracking one eye open. The thin muslin curtains seemed to glow in the silvery morning light, the familiar blue of the room turning it into the soft ripples of a bubbling river.

He smiled as he nestled himself deeper into his pillow. It was hard to be upset when the bed-linens were fresh from a week's wash. Not to mention the duvet, handmade by his late Nana Aibreann, was something he could die in.

Strange, though, was how it seemed so real. Normally, he wasn't as comfortable in his own room like he was here.

Perhaps it was because Gabriel was over. That would explain why he was dreaming of this place now. He sighed and turned over.

No matter. It was nice for now, even if he didn't have cotton covers.

Wait....Cotton? He'd never buy CoTTON SHEE--

" hhHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWW?!?!? "

Richard shot up in a cold sweat. He swiveled around, eyes wide, heart pounding. He threw back the curtains.

" HHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! "

Shock shot up his spine as reality hit him like a brick wall. His limbs violently worked to escape the situation only to lead him over the edge. Pain flashed in the back of his head.

" F*CKING HEEEELLLLl!! "

A piteous moan followed as the man curled up into a ball, cradling his head with budding tears.

Utterson was already wide awake, sleep having eluded him, but the few live in staff were thrown into a forceful wakefulness.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Oh my word!" exclaimed Lewis as he rushed to try to catch Richard, hands managing to break the latter's fall but not arrest it--Enfield still hit his head.

"I didn't expect you to just plummet out of the bed--goodness," Weir remarked as he helped Richard sit up.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

His efforts were pushed away by frightened hands, a genuine fear playing in his eyes. An intense trembling came over him as he fought to keep control.

" K-keep your hands OFF me! "

Richard looked around the room in a growing terror.

" P-p-please! J-just let me be! "

Outside, Utterson met with the staff and bid them to go back to their rooms, promising to explain everything later. Naturally, the others seemed content with this save for the head of staff, who argued that they should know now since they were woken up so early in the morning.

He didn't have much time to reply when he heard his kin's panicked cries. With an anxious look, he had them wait while he joined Lewis inside the room.

The moment he did, Enfield started to cry. He pointed an accusing finger at him.

" Y-you!!! How could you!? "

He went to stand but fell back on the bed.

" H-h-how dare you!! This was p-plan huh?! T-the whole time! You were waiting till I gave you a chance! Then you stole me away in the dark of the night!!

I can't believe it! I can't believe YOU!!! "

" Richard please... "

" No Gabriel! NO!! "

He crawled over the bed to the other side, his eyes betrayed a mental wound beginning to reopen. Utterson saw this plainly. It was a far too similar scenario but there was little he could do while he was wound up.

Desperately, he looked to Lewis for help as he tried to calm him down.

" Richard, please! We didn't plan for this to happen! Something came up and we had to bring you here! "

He stepped forward with his arms outstretched, a comforting gesture in any other situation. Behind them, the staff peaked in and immediately a ripple of murmurs followed.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis stepped back and dropped his hands to his sides, palms up, showing he meant no harm.

"Richard," he said after Utterson entered and the two had their exchange, "this was unavoidable if we wanted to save your life--and I don't mean in a figurative sense.

"Peverell gave the order to have you replaced. His men would've killed you while you were defenseless. Desirae came to your house, distraught, with proof in her hand. She and I risked our lives getting you out of The Silver Line. And Gabriel, despite his condition, arranged for us to flee before such deadly trouble caught up to you. We only just made the train."

Weir approached cautiously, pulling Peverell's note from his waistcoat pocket.

"Here," he ventured quietly, the gravity of the situation attested by the tone of his voice and the concern on his face. "Take a look." He held the piece of paper out cautiously, not wishing to crowd Enfield.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" Oh! And I'm supposed to just take that from you no problem!? "

Angry tears burned down his cheeks as he snatched the paper away from Lewis.

" Peverell would never do such a thing! I was his best courier! His best man in our quarter! How come I'm his favorite if he wanted me dead!? Answer that LEWIS!

His fingers curled the memo into his fist.

" And what about Desirae?! She would never break my trust and snoop around my work! She has a job to live by!! How could she?! Why would she?!?

She wouldn't! She wouldn't dare do such a thing because you're LYING!!! "

A false confidence came over him as he tried to wipe away his tears.

" And on the topic, What else have you been lying about?! Gabriel's fracture?! "

He threw a particularly nasty look at Gabriel as his voice cracked

" OOOOoh But forget THAT am I right?

Let's read this scrap of sh*t huh! Let's lay it ALL BEAR!! "

With a furious motion, he straightened it out and read it out, bravado clear even in his emotional state.

" 'To all of my men working in this quarter,

I feel it would be of interest to inform you that Richard Enfield, a courier and tester, h-has been chosen t-to be...

To be...t-to be... "

All angry or hurt fell apart at the words in front of him. His voiced died mid sentence. All blood drained from his face as blinding shock came over him.

Disbelief, hurt, surprise, utter horror...

Peverell Shepard...His safety net...His friend when he had none...

All those times when he sat him done for a drink and listened to him vent, when he would invite him over to parties and balls, when he let him stay the night...

All that fell away in the face of such blatant duplicity.

Richard's knees buckled, his momentum saving him from the floor and managed to seat him in the bed. His hands went limp, the note floating down in his silence.

Rivers of tears coursed down his face while his very soul trembled with anguish.

Nausea roiled in the heavy pit in his stomach. A blade twisted in his ribs. All this and nothing came out of him. No word, no wail....

Nothing.

The staff backed off, their murmurs turning to whispers as they left the scene. Utterson, heavyhearted, watched as his cousin kept from collapsing into himself. It was an unhappy peek into the past, when a younger Richard hid away when the news of his mother came.

The wet eyed tyke biting his lip, struggling to keep from crying out loud, clutching his legs close to better fit in his corner.

That same child was now a man, shedding inconsolable tears, clenching his jaws shut, heart bleeding with the same bitter feeling of distrust and broken trust.

Stepping softly, he went around the bed, tucked the crumpled note in a pocket, and settled next to Enfield, where he then wrapped an arm around his kin and pulled him close with a stroke.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis held his peace, understanding their need for comfort and a measure of privacy. As demurely as possible for a man of his size, he quietly tiptoed over to a chair and settled himself, gaze averted from the two.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

They sat together for a time, just sharing the space between them, Enfield coming to terms with the truth of his reality while his elder comforted him through it.

After a beat, Utterson spoke up.

" What a way to come back home, huh? "

He gave a mirthless chuckle before getting up.

" I'm sorry it had to be like this. It's certainly not what I had in mind. "

He smiled with a gentle compassion, a hint of remorse in his eyes.

" Can't help it now though. It is what it is.

In any case, I'll leave you alone now. We'll have breakfast soon enough but if you like, you're free to poke around the kitchen for a snack. "

He stifled a yawn and went to leave when Richard spoke up. There was a vain attempt to hide the emotion in his voice as he stood up.

" C-can we have a cup of tea? Just one...

I doubt we're going to sleep all that well after this. "

He cleared his throat in a rare display of modesty.

Gabriel turned with an absolutely delighted beam despite being tired.

" Absolutely Richard. It's no problem at all. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis nodded in affirmation and followed Gabriel out.

The tea was soon ready, and Weir offered to help cook breakfast if Utterson wished.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

He shook his head.

" No, no! I'll be fine! If I did that then I really couldn't fall back to sleep. "

Utterson set the tea on the table with a small bowl of candies, along with the regular amenities that went with it.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Ah, I see," replied Lewis. "Do feel free to get some sleep when you feel you can, by the by," he added, acutely aware it was still technically his shift but also that Gabriel likely wanted to speak further with Richard.

He presumed Enfield would be down shortly.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I will, don't worry.

I just want to you to get enough rest since you have errands to run in the morning. Go ahead and sleep while you can. I'll wake you up around six so you can eat something and take your things home. "

The approaching sounds of footsteps came around the corner revealing the familiar face of Enfield. He seemed to have cleaned himself up unusually enough, fresh clothes with a hair neatly brushed, and cared with him a sorry look.

He glanced between them.

" Thank very much for doing this. I know you'd rather be sleeping and this just keeps you up a-and-- "

" It's fine Richard! It's not the first time I've had tea in dark. "

Utterson laughed.

" Come! Sit! Have your tea!

We have much to talk about. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Gabriel, you'll need your sleep, too," answered Lewis. "You've had a long journey and not much chance to rest. Besides, I'm used to keeping somewhat irregular hours."

Richard appeared and spoke with Gabriel.

"'Tis never a bad time for tea," put in Weir.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" True, but you helped me make it and it's be a shame to waste. "

He started making his cup without skipping a beat.

" Plus I would hate to leave my kin here by himself, since he asked so kindly. "

Richard uneasily crept in and took his seat, not wanting to distract from their exchange. He was already aware of how tired they were. A straight trip from Paris to London in one day was not a comfortable one, and to be screamed awake was even less optimum. It was a hard thing to ignore, especially since he was asleep the entire time.

Top that off with his current sensitive frame of mind, it all made for a less than ideal situation.

" If Lewis wants to, he can keep me company. "

He looked to Utterson with a worried look.

" I'd hate to inconvenience you anymore than I have... "

" No, I'll be fine! You asked for tea and we shall have it. I can always nap during the day. "

" Gabriel, we do this another time. Right now, you should probably catch all the sleep you can. I may act like it sometimes but believe it or not, I'm not the person that matters most here. "

" Quite the humble thought Richard. I didn't think you'd ever admit such a thing. "

A self-conscious blush came over him as his cousin chuckled to himself.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis poured everyone some tea and quietly fixed his cup.

"Why don't we compromise and say you get some sleep after we've finished here?" he suggested.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Sounds fine to me. "

Utterson smiled and made room for Lewis to sit. He pat the empty seat.

" Now come and join us! I promise to both of you that it won't be long. I'll even let you have the honor of escorting me, just so I don't go out into the night have tea in some other parlor. "

Enfield snickered.

" Did we switch places? I thought I was to be watched over, not you. "

" No, we didn't change places. I'm just giving you a heads up."

Gabriel laughed mischievously and sent an playful look at Lewis.

" Though if Lewis escorts me, I might not manage any escape. Can't get past a man made of quicksilver, now can I? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis took a seat.

He chuckled softly at the exchange between the two.

When Gabriel mentioned quicksilver, Weir's line of thought went from it to its other name--mercury--to said planet's role and representation in alchemy as an agent of change and transmutation. For one illogical moment, he paled to the lips as he feared he'd been found out.

The moment passed as he realized he was being paranoid.

"Ahah," he managed, shaking off the shock with a smile that took a half-second longer than it should've to reach his eyes as his color returned. He didn't risk lifting his teacup, afraid his hands might shake. "That's one way to put it."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

This didn't go unnoticed by the two.

Utterson swiftly backpedaled nervously while the other glanced at him sideways.

" Ah! Forgive me! Bad vocabulary on my part. I just meant that you're quick on your feet. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"Oh no, no, I just..." he waved it off, "I'm merely afraid I'm not so fast to react at the moment. I certainly don't wish to let you down," he said with a chortle.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Oh...My bad then. "

The answer didn't seemed to satisfy the cousins, but neither pushed the issue. Gabriel simply smiled and reached for the candy bowl in the middle.

" Here, have a drop to make up for it. "

The little bowl had a nice variety, with a strong preference towards cherry, lemon, and nectar drops specifically. Richard himself was already sucking on one discreetly, looking skeptically at Weir.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Well, that went brilliantly, thought Lewis with sarcasm at himself.

He took a lemon drop.

"Thank you."

Sucking on the drop meant he didn't have to speak further...for the moment.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Gabriel took one took but didn't unwrap it. He put it to the side a began drinking his tea instead. An awkward silence followed until Utterson finished his sip.

" So now that you're back home, what would you like to do? "

" I...don't know. I can't imagine you two even letting me out since you're both trying to help kick my habits. "

Enfield crunched on his drop with an uncertain scowl.

" Which I don't even know if I'm ready to do to be honest.

I want to be close to you again but trying to steal away my hobbies might just my temper flare up again. But then again, you made it clear day one that's what you wanted to do...And now that I've been spirited away from my actual home, I should've know I unwittingly agreed to it. "

He leaned back with a sigh.

" Honestly, I love you, but I don't know why putting me on a leash was your first thought... "

There was a newfound playfulness in his words but it was underscored by cheek and what could only be seen as self-doubt. Utterson looked up at him anxiously.

" Well, We were actually planning to ween you off of everything and try and help from there. He said it wouldn't do any good trying to cut you off completely.

Right Lewis? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

At Gabriel's sudden question, Lewis crunched and swallowed what was left of the lemon drop in order to answer.

"Correct. To stop suddenly could have dangerous side effects.

"I know a doctor here in London who could dispense the proper amount without asking too many questions, if he knows it's for a good cause.

"What do you say?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I'd say that I'm doubtful. "

He gulped his tea down then took another drop.

" You can't seriously think I'd believe that your colleague would just hand you some pretty pounds of Hemp and not question where its going. "

He arched his eyebrows.

" That's just trouble ready to happen. "

" Well hold on now Richard. Would you rather it kill you because you went too far or it be measured and brought down, bit by bit? I can't say I completely know the reasoning behind it, but even on the surface, it makes sense. "

Utterson stirred his tea thoughtfully.

" Let's just try it and see how it goes. If it doesn't work, we'll try something else. "

Enfield snorted.

" All it does is give me another den to visit.

I'd be more than willing to see a doctor if it meant I got to get a good smoke in. That isn't what you want though and I'm at least willing to let you know that. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"He'd ask me the questions, and I'm someone he trusts. I'd answer with the truth, though I wouldn't give your name. He actually, ah," Lewis laughed at the memory, "made a bit of a mistake when he went to purchase a particular quantity some months ago and--well, long story short, he has too much. He'd be eager to find a buyer whom he can trust won't try to sell it illegally. He'd be doubly glad to know it was to help someone try to go off the stuff for good."

He regarded Richard.

"I know you say you just want a smoke, but if you should happen to go off opium in the process...there's no harm, is there?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" I don't think you quite understand what I told you the other day. "

He poured another cup of tea and took a gulped it down just as fast. Utterson looked as though he had a question but decided to keep it to himself instead.

" I smoke Opium because I like it.

It make me feel better about everything when I need to relax because It's one of the few things that can make me relax...

There's no getting rid of that. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"On the contrary, Richard," reiterated Lewis, "I understand it all too well.

"What concerns me is not simply the fact that you smoke it, but that you do so at a higher dose than is recommended, as well as that you have the habit of combining it with alcohol--again, in quantities greater than I would advise."

He shook his head.

"A little laudanum at bedtime is one thing. This is quite another. It can stop your lungs, your heart. You could suffocate in your sleep easily--Hell, I've witnessed you come close already, though you're doubtless unaware, because you're asleep when it happens. You've pushed your body right up to the very edge of what it can handle--you stand upon the brink of the abyss. To fall...would be a grim affair indeed," he remarked, serious as the funeral he knew Desirae or Gabriel would have to plan if Richard proved unreasonable.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" You keep saying that... "

He looked away, sucking on his drop to keep from cursing.

He wanted to get better, he honestly did. He wanted to be among the waking world and simply be again. No more troubles, no more dissatisfaction. Just contentment and the people he loved.

Why was he arguing against it then? Why couldn't he separate himself from himself? Was it even him that was speaking?

It felt as though he was both the audience and the actor, both sides simultaneously overlapping and yet stuck watching from mental cages as their whole lays trapped in the webs of his treacherous-made heart.

Utterson's addition seemed to punctuate this almost perfectly.

" Richard...

I can understand if you're uncertain or afraid. To be honest, I am too. Far more than I'd like to be. It hurts me to think that maybe I may have acted too late and you will fade away.

You still have it in you're heart to forgive me and take me back and I'm forever thankful for that, but it all means nothing if you can't find the strength to make that last.

Think of me as you will. Nag, fogey, cousin...

It doesn't matter. Just know that you have made me one of the happiest nags in the world, the most proud fogeys there could be, and the most blessed cousin to ever exist.

If this is a fight you can't fight alone, then let us fight with you. If you fight us on the way, then fight us. "

A laugh.

" I don't claim to know you fully, but it seems to me that you

speak with conflict a lot and that's alright. I'll learn to fight better if that's what it takes for you to understand. Who knows, maybe this will help us communicate better as a whole

I digress. You understand what I'm saying. "

Utterson reached over and took his hand in his.

" Just give this a chance. That's all we ask.

If it doesn't work, we'll try something else, and should that fail, we try again. Simple as that. "

Enfield struggled to find his words.

" I...Well, truthfully...

I-I... "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis nodded along as his friend spoke, touched by Gabriel's words and aware he certainly couldn't have expressed the sentiment better.

When Enfield began to speak, Weir was careful not to jump in, instead merely providing a supportive presence. Lewis listened with rapt attention.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I...I'll think about it... "

He took a deep breathe before standing up.

" Give me till morning to think about it. Then we'll figure it out from there. "

Politely, he took his cup to the sink and cleaned up his spot. Before he left the kitchen, he came up to Utterson a hugged him tightly.

" Thank you for the tea... "

His stomach rolled in a particularly nauseous fashion but Richard didn't mention it. He just stood up, nodded to the others, and left to try and stick it out.

Gabriel could barely hide his proud smile as his kin left, tears budding at the corner of his eyes. His heart blossomed with an untold happiness, his chest growing tight with joy. He whispered to Lewis, barely containing his delight.

" I think that was a yes Weir. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"I do believe so," returned Lewis, barely audible, as he broke into a grin.

He patted his friend on the back.

"'Looks as if you've done it--he did it--we all did it," Weir continued quietly, the hint of a chortle sneaking in at the end.

"'Tis quite a journey we've had, in all senses."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" It most certainly has. "

Gabriel chuckled, his exhaustion coming back full force. He rubbed his eyes, stretched out his back, and swirled his tea around hesitantly. With a good cupful left, he was tempted just to leave it and flop right into bed.

He looked to Lewis ruefully.

" I'm sorry to ask you this but would you like to finish my tea? I'd hate to just throw it out but I'm just too tired to finish it. "

A sheepish smile.

" It's alright if you don't want to. I simply thought I ought to ask. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Thank you for asking," replied Lewis. "I could certainly use the extra tea, in fact," he revealed with a smile.

"Why don't you go on back to bed? 'Tis been a long day, and you'll need your rest for the morning."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I was just going to do that. "

He got up and pushed his chair in.

" I'll leave everything out for you. And if you want a snack, feel free to check the pantry. I've got plenty of crackers and biscuits lying around. "

A powerful yawn suddenly came over him.

" Oh goodness! My apologies... "

Gabriel made his way out of the kitchen.

" Goodnight Lewis. See you in the morning, or afternoon rather. "

Another yawn prompted him to finally leave and crawl into bed, sleep almost taking over him immediately.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"Goodnight, Gabriel. Sleep well. I'll see you then if I don't see you at the changing of the guard in the morning."

After Utterson had gone to bed, Weir helped himself to some biscuits, finished the rest of the tea, and took up his post watching over Enfield.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

The house was at peace against, it's calming quiet coming back like an early morning fog, absorbing the chaos of earlier and erasing it from the present.

Utterson was in a deep slumber, too deep to alleviate Lewis from his shift in the early morning.

Enfield didn't lie back down, he couldn't. His stomach was too troubling to consider going back to sleep, or really to safely lay down without threat of vomiting. His gut was gurgling unhappily since it didn't get the usual order of liquor and got a tea instead.

He did his best to manage it though, sitting up against the headboard to keep from leaning back with an old chamber pot next to his feet just in case it came to it. His stand off lasted a good hour before it came to a head. A sweat came over him and, ready for the encounter, he knelt down and heaved right into the pot with feverish sick.

It was a blessing and a curse given the circumstances, but he was no longer in pain at the very least.

He went through a couple rounds of this before it finally came to a close. Richard stripped down and climbed into the bed to cool his body down, eventually pulling him into a light cat-nap as the dawn finally passed into morning.

The staff woke early to get things going with only a slight drag in their step, starting their work in the kitchen first preparing breakfast and tea for Gabriel then themselves. He didn't end up coming down which gave them the opportunity to gossip openly about the sudden reappearance of Master Enfield.

Eventually though, they stopped and got to their chores, going about the house as quietly as possible.

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