From Hell to Rehab RP ( Formerly Blood is Thicker than Water )( Part Two )

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From Hell to Rehab RP ( Formerly Blood is Thicker than Water )( Part Two )

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The Fox

The Fox

@disqus_eqavLvmRDA a year ago

SO I KINDA FELL OF THE RADAR FOR A BIT HUH

So I accidentally ended up taking an unplanned mental health break a handful of weeks back and then I had stuff to do so it's only now that I actually have time to get back to this. Needless to say, I am happy to be back.

And since it's been awhile, let's do a small recap.

Utterson and Lewis have finally gotten Richard back to London, away from his planned demise in the hands of Peverell. Once safe in Gabriel's abode, they took to shifts, looking over Richard and waiting for him to wake. Enfield did wake eventually, with a bit of a shock, and with a bit of talking to, he realizes that he had been used and betrayed.

The two cousins spend a moment together in silence and Richard, in a rare moment of humility, asks for a cup of tea with his kin. Utterson is happy to oblige though Lewis is a little concerned about the hour due to the other's lack of rest.

Despite this though, they make some tea and talk for awhile, taking the chance to finally explain themselves and their intent fully, without the veil of defense that had stood between the three and full understanding. Richard considers their words but quietly agrees to the idea of treatment.

The next week passes with little to note save for the tail-end, when Richard is caught with a cache of stolen drink underneath his bed. Trouble ensues. An upset Enfield takes to downing his collection while Utterson and Regina stand back to formulate a plan of attack.

Lewis comes around to give his afternoon dose right around the mid point and tries to help by asking Enfield himself what's upsetting him. He gets nowhere with this but it's not the last of his efforts, nor Utterson's.

With some time and effort, his cousin manages to talk him into a calmer state and have Lewis check him. His overall health is fine but it's clear that the situation could've been a lot worse. Afterwards, Enfield asks to talk with Lewis privately and though it starts off well enough, it soon turns for the worse when his temper gets the better of him and he goes to leave the house altogether.

Alrighty! That's where we left off! Let's pick up from there!

To the rp!

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The Fox • a year ago

( Here we are! )

Jekyll1886:

"You're only fooling yourself, Richard," Weir called after him, serious as a funeral.

"Right now, you're self-sabotaging to boot," he continued as he descended the stairs.

"You're trying to make the both of us give up on you, trying to prove to yourself we never cared anyway. To what purpose, I know not. But that's exactly what's happening."

He shook his head.

"Not everyone is your father, Richard. Not everyone is going to abandon you. And you do have worth, whether you think so or not.

"I tell you the truth. I speak it frankly.

"Believe me or don't--that, I have no power over.

"I ask only that you be honest with yourself. For your own sake."

--

The doctor's words grated against Richard's mood, each one pushing him further into a bitter, snarly ire.

His hand worked more fervently among drawer, slamming it when he found nothing and moving to the next one. Angry thought buzzed like a swarm of bees in his mind, circling in a ever shrinking patience, the irrational fury concentrating ever closer to a breaking point.

This showed in his face, his eyes grower darker and darker.

Utterson took the situation in, slowly understanding what may have happened. He met Lewis's eyes before taking a step toward his kin.

" Richard...

Richard please listen to me. "

He didn't expect an answer and none he got. He simply went ahead and spoke, hoping that some of what he said could bring some reason to Enfield.

" Do you remember back in Paris when I showed you your old perfume bottles?

Do you remember what happened afterwards, after I had showed you more than ever that I cared for you? "

Richard clenched his jaw with a growl.

" You were overcome in tears and opened yourself up to me...

You went one, saying how much you missed me and how you were a cad.

I told you that it was fine, how you were nothing more than yourself and how I'd never leave you by yourself. I'm your kin through and through; stubborn streak and all. There's nothing, no storm, no distance, nothing, that could push me away.

It would put me back a little way but not send the other way. "

He came up to his side and shut the drawer he was searching.

" And I can understand if this is all a bit hard to swallow. You just reconciled with these feelings just a handful days ago, where I had barged into your life after three years of absence. Who else wouldn't feel like you do now? "

He put his hand to his heart.

" I know I might feel distrustful in your position. "

He put his other hand on his.

" But you know that I care and I know your care too.

This is just something we have to work past, another rock in the road we have to go around. There's no way I can fix forty years of pain, especially not when your mother and father left you so unexpectedly. Lord knows I've done what I can. "

He sighed.

" I only have so many things I can do for you.

But, I'm sure you already know this well, if you just try and let us in fully, we can do more. And that's what you're scared of.

You're scared of letting us down. "

An honest look.

" Am I correct in saying that? "

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Jekyll1886 • a year ago

((The Fox ))

The Fox Jekyll1886 • 13 days ago

" Why should I? You LOOK like a joke. "

He glared at Lewis before turning to the door. He threw the door open and snarled on his way out.

" That said, I'm sick of your antics. Both you and Gabriel. "

He hurried down the stairs and stormed down into the parlor.

Utterson looked up from his book in surprise.

" Richard? What are you doi-- "

" I'm going out... "

" What!? "

The lawyer jumped to attention and tried to flank Enfield, but his cousin twisted out of his way and walked faster to the front door. Helplessly trying to catch his kin's attention, Utterson called out to the others.

" Lewis!! Regina!!! Can someone help me here??? "

His attention turned back to Richard as the man jostled the locked door. There was a foul tempered mumble he couldn't make out followed by his cousin storming back past him and to a nearby drawer where he digging around for the key.

Jekyll1886 The Fox • 13 days ago

"You're only fooling yourself, Richard," Weir called after him, serious as a funeral.

"Right now, you're self-sabotaging to boot," he continued as he descended the stairs.

"You're trying to make the both of us give up on you, trying to prove to yourself we never cared anyway. To what purpose, I know not. But that's exactly what's happening."

He shook his head.

"Not everyone is your father, Richard. Not everyone is going to abandon you. And you do have worth, whether you think so or not.

"I tell you the truth. I speak it frankly.

"Believe me or don't--that, I have no power over.

"I ask only that you be honest with yourself. For your own sake."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

( Nam at arcu urna. Nulla rutrum, nulla et mattis pellentesque, nisl velit

porta sapien, sed egestas purus justo vitae purus. Vivamus convallis ex

nec urna feugiat cursus. Proin vel nunc euismod, pulvinar elit eu,

venenatis nulla. Curabitur posuere augue vitae massa feugiat, a iaculis

urna aliquam. Duis eu faucibus enim. Aliquam ac sollicitudin lorem.

)

The doctor's words grated against Richard's mood, his hand slamming the drawer shut it and moving to the next one.

His eyes grower darker with each unsuccessful search and soon he pushed Lewis into the next room and searched there.

Utterson watched first shock but this swiftly feel back into a sympathetic worry. Another day, another fit. He briefly met Lewis's eyes before taking a step toward his kin.

" Richard...

Richard please listen to me. "

He stepped forward, speaking honestly.

" You know that I care and I know your care too. I understand it's just habit at this point but still I must ask; what use is pitching a fit now? What does it do to help you further along? "

Richard clenched his jaw with a growl. Utterson flinched lightly as he felt his cousin's glare but stood tall regardless..

" This is you unfortunately. This you as you have been for many years now.

You're distrustful, proud, temperamental...alone in your heart and the path you travel. You walk high and look low, follow where your senses lead you, you indulge in the glut of life...

I know this for a fact; I've been by your side since you were just a child. "

To this Enfield looked up, furious, offended, even somewhat hurt, but said nothing. He swallowed all potential retorts or verbal abuse as he stood frozen in rebellion, taking it all with bruised mental hide.

I knew it....I knew it....

" And, for some time, there was a great many of year where I didn't agree with that. I couldn't understand why you would go into the underworld so willingly and why you held ego higher than sobriety. "

I knew it I knew it I knew IT...

" Very often, I thought I had failed to display these virtues or that I had simply couldn't provide for you what you needed. Sometime I even thought that perhaps there was nothing to be done. "

I KNEW IT GOD F*CKING CHRIST HOW COULD I HAVE BEEN SO NAIVE

" And I was right in thinking that. "

Richard blanched for a moment before Utterson swooped his face into his hands.

" You are simply a different creature then I.

I cannot fix all the pain of forty years. I cannot take back what life has dealt to you, knowingly or not. There is nothing that can wipe away what you have seen and felt and were compelled to to do.

You are you just as God intended and I could ask for nothing more. "

He blinked surprised and tried to looked behind him but Gabriel kept him looking forward.

" There is no changing the core of your being. That's why I let you go when you decided to move, let you have your space, came to help you save yourself, took you in your sleep back to a hearth where you could be safe and free...

That's why I was always your friend from the start. "

He stepped back and let him go. By now, the whole staff had gathered round to witness the event.

" No fit or tantrum or denial can change that. You know I love you despite everything.

And as your friend, I can see that you are more than your facade. Despite what it may sound like, I don't believe you are to stay that way. You will always be sensitive to your desires but the way you go about handling them can change.

The first step to change is realizing that there is a need for change. You've already done that. Now you must work to create that change, no matter how daunting it is. "

He looked firmly at his stunned kin, a steely, determined look in his features. Richard stared helplessly as he felt the sheer air of support and resolve coming from his usually demure elder. Honestly, he should feel so surprised. Utterson was a man of his word and he had promised only a few days earlier that he would learn to speak his language; to fight.

In the back of his head, a dull mental snap reverberated through the whole of his soul and whatever thin excuse of agitation that had struggled so vibrantly fell apart, letting forth his previously robbed sense or reason. It was one string of many, past, present and future, but now it was gone, another useless catalyst for fury limp and exhausted.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Precisely," affirmed Lewis, glad Gabriel had risen to the occasion. It looked as if Utterson had finally gotten through to Enfield where Weir couldn't.

Lewis sincerely hoped the breakthrough stuck.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

A collective breathe hung as the two stood in place. Richard struggled to find his voice.

" You...He...

...HE!!! YOU!!!... "

He huffed and turned around, finally facing Lewis again, not paying heed to his audience. He looked as though he really wanted say something, even more to snap back at him, but it all feel flat to a unhappy, confused scowl.

His eyes flicked down the floor and back to his face before he stepped behind them and walked past the staff.

" I'm going to the garden! "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Weir nodded.

The chill of the air may do him good--bracing, that.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

They let him pass with no words whispered. One girl went and opened the door for him but he simply took it from her with stormy grumble.

She was left to simply watch with the others as he took a seat in one of the two wicker chairs and just leaned into his hands, probably cursing up storm at himself and reevaluating his emotions.

Gabriel, though happy to see Richard had absorbed his message, sighed and took his seat back in the parlor. He leaned his head back and smiled somewhat worriedly.

It was clear he was tired from the encounter, already worn out by the debacle from earlier in the day. There was little there to keep from completely just back and holing up, to quietly escape to collect his energy once more. But he knew he must be in the present, if not for himself but for the others and whatever questions they may have.

He leaned forward and mimicked Enfield's expression unknowingly, laughing softly to himself.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis joined Utterson in the parlor, settling down opposite him.

"How are you faring, Gabriel?" Weir asked after a few moments.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Terrible to be honest, but glad of it. "

He looked up a soft smile.

" It can't be helped really. I'm not meant to be firm or controlling, let alone chiseling into mental walls. "

Another laugh as he rubbed his face.

" I've failed him so much Lewis...How could I have let him grow so untrusting and self-hating? "

A deep breathe.

" I'd kicked myself in the head if I had known he'd come to this. God have mercy... " A shake of the head. " He's such a sensitive creature. The moment the wind changes, WHOFFF!, off he goes...

If only I had twice as much love to give, though if I did he probably would've left me cause I cared TOO much. "

A pause.

" And I suppose that's just about what happened, for better or worse. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Gabriel, you've done everything you could and continue to do everything you can for him. You're not the one who left the scars on his heart--you're the one doing your best to mend them."

Weir shook his head.

"Whatever's happened...we can only ever go from where we are.

"And it's up to him as well as us. You're doing all you can."

A pause as Lewis considered something.

"I do hope you'll get some sleep soon, though. I'd hate to see your health decline as we try to better his, especially when there are two of us to watch over him," he offered.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" True true...

I just can't help but wonder sometimes. "

He smiled as he sat up.

" I just wished I could do more. Don't all kin do? "

Lewis spoke further.

" You needn't worry about me. After today, I will have some very well needed rest. You will too I imagine. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

I suppose we do, at that, reflected Lewis with a nod when Gabriel spoke of kin. Weir's thoughts turned to Helen and Hela in particular.

Utterson reassured Lewis about getting enough rest.

"Ah. Very good," Weir replied, settled by his friend's statement.

"Shall we take shifts tonight, then--as before?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I suppose we should, though I feel we won't have to worry too much about him stealing drink anymore. "

His thought was punctuated by the unusual silence from outside. Normally there would be a veritable storm rolling outside, curses flung far and wide at a number of targets; Weir, Gabriel, society and its binding contracts in general.

However, it was absent.

In its place instead was a haunted, troubled silence that hung as heavy as lead in and around the fifty year old.

Gabriel looked and listened carefully, unconsciously respecting it as though he would disturb its focus.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Mm."

The paused turned into a silence that stretched, though it didn't feel uncomfortable to Lewis.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

A nagging sense of worry budded in the depths of Gabriel's heart but he knew that Enfield needed to find himself before he could accept the comfort of another.

Knowing this, Gabriel brushed it aside with impeccable ease and stood up with a stretch.

" Well then, since we have a little time before we start, let's some or coffee and have some snacks. Since we our drama earlier, we'll be having dinner just a touch later that usual.

Once we have a full meal and Richard presumably comes back inside, we'll begin. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Coffee sounds excellent," seconded Lewis as he rose to join Gabriel.

* * *

After dinner, the two took shifts, just as they'd said. The rest of the night passed uneventfully, for which they were glad.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

RIchard had eventually slunk back into the house and holed himself back up in his room. Any remaining liquor that hadn't been drunk was already confiscated by the staff and put back in it's proper place, not with a firm knot tied round the cupboards in question.

Regina, determined to help them despite being asked to rest instead, stayed in the kitchen and took her post in the kitchen, chair right in the center with her and a warm cup of coffee in hand.

And so, with RIchard's mood thankfully more reserved if a little dispirited, he remained in his room for a time. Once in awhile, he'd leave to pace around the house, up and down, left and right, circling around the edge of acceptable territory, before crawling right back into his little den of misery.

Said misery was not from terrible tragedy or unfortunate circumstance. It was from his ever shifting sense of self bitterly coming to terms with what had happened today. He had finally, truly lost his effect on them...Weir and Gabriel could finally get past his defenses...

Not only that, but what they said and did could now take seed and root in his spoiled soil.

It was already bad enough that he had let himself lapse into weakness when Utterson's offered his perfume bottles as a show of love. Even worse that he even let them stay the week in his home beforehand, or that he even let them in when they first came to his abode...

And now what will become of him! What will become of him not he'll..! He'll...

He blinked as he clutched his duvet close.

He'll grow soft, open...worthy of love...worthy of Gabriel and Weir and Desirae...

He'd become a more tender, beautiful person, one that could be flawed but not so disliked, one that could indulge without worrying about his potential death in his own hands...

He could be a much freer being, Troubles and vices by his side with reason and awareness at his other. Nothing would be lost, all would be gained....

The doctor's words played in his over and over again through the night, sleep only passing lightly through the stream of concentration and settling next to him to brood with him.

Richard looked up.

What would that kind of person look like? When he is honest in both body and mind? Where he could freely sin in the eyes of darkness knowing he was always meant to simply be and come back to the hearth of his cousin's soul loved and understood, with no judgement to spear him from behind?

What would that person looks like, knowing who he was and how he would be treated when there was no friendly to take him outside of home? Where the world's most harsh executors would see and cut him right then and there, with daggers and sly glances, with whispered venom to follow his heels?

What would that person do if it were him?

A spark of hesitant distress fluttered in his chest as he rolled over and tried to calm himself into a descent sleep, unable to shoo away the swarm of thoughts that clung to his conscious stubbornly. He huffed and put up a mental block.

It was all a farce, nothing more. Weir had no idea what he was talking about. Not once, not ever. What's the point of the glory in wickedness if it was meant to be taken away? No...

He would never change. He could never change. That was the others simply had to accept.

Richard slowly felt the draw of the void of slumber pull him closer and closer. Soon, he was fast asleep, troubled but still, with his last thought unusually upbeat.

Damn if he wouldn't try to though.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

( Nunc facilisis molestie neque. Pellentesque vel ex felis. Aenean est

nisl, facilisis ut tortor vitae, pellentesque aliquet lacus. Duis quis

eros lobortis erat blandit elementum vitae quis nisl. Vivamus id sem ex.

Quisque tristique est eu tempus imperdiet. Vivamus vehicula sem non leo

vulputate vestibulum. Suspendisse imperdiet id lacus vel pharetra.)

Richard eventually slunk back into the house and holed himself back up in his room. Any remaining liquor that hadn't been drunk was already confiscated by the staff and put back in it's proper place, not with a firm knot tied round the cupboards in question.

Regina, determined to help them despite being asked to rest instead, stayed in the kitchen and took her post in the kitchen, chair right in the center with her and a warm cup of coffee in hand.

And so, with RIchard's mood thankfully more reserved if a little dispirited, he remained in his room for a time. Once in awhile, he'd leave to pace around the house, up and down, left and right, circling around the edge of acceptable territory, before crawling right back into his little den of misery.

Said misery was not from terrible tragedy or unfortunate circumstance. It was from his ever shifting sense of self bitterly coming to terms with what had happened today. He had finally, truly lost his effect on them...Weir and Gabriel could finally get past his defenses...

Not only that, but what they said and did could now take seed and root in his spoiled soil.

It was already bad enough that he had let himself lapse into weakness when Utterson's offered his perfume bottles as a show of love. Even worse that he even let them stay the week in his home beforehand, or that he even let them in when they first came to his abode...

And now what will become of him! What will become of him not he'll..! He'll...

He blinked as he clutched his duvet close.

He'll grow soft, open...worthy of love...worthy of Gabriel and Weir and Desirae...

He'd become a more tender, beautiful person, one that could be flawed but not so disliked, one that could indulge without worrying about his potential death in his own hands...

He could be a much freer being, Troubles and vices by his side with reason and awareness at his other. Nothing would be lost, all would be gained....

The doctor's words played in his over and over again through the night, sleep only passing lightly through the stream of concentration and settling next to him to brood with him.

Richard looked up.

What would that kind of person look like? When he is honest in both body and mind? Where he could freely sin in the eyes of darkness knowing he was always meant to simply be and come back to the hearth of his cousin's soul loved and understood, with no judgement to spear him from behind?

What would that person looks like, knowing who he was and how he would be treated when there was no friendly to take him outside of home? Where the world's most harsh executors would see and cut him right then and there, with daggers and sly glances, with whispered venom to follow his heels?

What would that person do if it were him?

A spark of hesitant distress fluttered in his chest as he rolled over and tried to calm himself into a descent sleep, unable to shoo away the swarm of thoughts that clung to his conscious stubbornly. He huffed and put up a mental block.

It was all a farce, nothing more. Weir had no idea what he was talking about. Not once, not ever. What's the point of the glory in wickedness if it was meant to be taken away?

No...

He would never change. He could never change. That was the others simply had to accept.

Richard slowly felt the draw of the void of slumber pull him closer and closer.

Soon, he was fast asleep, troubled but still, with his last thought unusually contrarian.

Damn if he wouldn't try to change.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

After his morning tea, Lewis fetched the morning post for Utterson and Enfield. It included, among other things, a particular envelope addressed to the latter.

"Richard," said Lewis as he passed it to him, "you've a letter here."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Utterson had just blinked awake as Lewis had just gotten their mail. He had some trouble sleeping when their shifts changed but his promise to Weir remained mostly true in that he did rest as best he could in between dozes and faint sleep. Most certainly there was a lot of mental rest consider the worry from yesterday.

With a yawn, he kicked on his slippers and came down to join Lewis and hopefully Enfield, who he was anxious to see up and about.

To his honest expectation, His cousin was not there however. The recovering addict was holed up in his room in an attempted gesture of disdain while he lay face down on the writing desk, mourning a breakfast lost.

The moment Lewis came up with a letter however was not a moment missed. With a leap, He came to the door and snatched it from Lewis, opening it with a swift, nervous tear and unfolding its contents.

So intent on his task, he completely passed Gabriel with little more than a swift glance.

His elder blinked curiously and joined Lewis as he followed after him.

" Morning Lewis. Forgive my tardiness, I just woke up.

I take it Desirae has sent another letter? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"It appears so," Weir replied to Utterson.

"How does she fare, Richard?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Enfield gave only a passing grunted in reply as he took a seat in the kitchen and absorbed the words in front of him.

Utterson shook his head with a smile and entered after him, filling the kettle for fresh tea. Through his peripheral vision, he watched as Richard went from intense worry, to surprise, to a bright red.

He put the letter down for just a moment as he cover his mouth, a giddy, lovestruck look practically radiating from him. It took all he could do to keep from giggling out loud while his heart drummed with excitement.

Anyone looking over his shoulder could easily see the reason why and politely keep from looking any further.

Gabriel chuckled to himself as he saw a long unseen schoolboy take Enfield's place, pick up the letter again, and put it down again. At this point, he buried his face in his hands, trying to keep his cool around his unofficial captors.

The light clinking of a cup greeted his ear and prompted a peek upwards at his cousin who took his seat across from him while he waited for the water to boil.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis exchanged a look with Gabriel before taking a seat. Weir met Richard's gaze when Enfield looked up at the sound.

"Well, I take it?" surmised Lewis with a mischievous smile.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" Y-you could say that... "

Richard coughed, trying to clear his throat of any signs of delight.

" In any case, we should probably get something together to have. At the very least I wouldn't have to spend the whole morning with you two. "

With a swift hand, he folded his letter back up, only casting one last happy glance at his lover's words.

" And since I figure you should know, Peverell and company are apparently all up in a tizzy. They burnt down my little manor, the bastards... "

" They did? "

" That's what has been said. "

Utterson listened apprehensively as Richard went gathering together a proper breakfast.

" They've been all over the place it seems.

Peverell has his men pouncing this way and that trying to track me down. He shouldn't be too mad about though. "

A slight note of frustration.

" If he looted my house before hand, he's bound to have enough to make up for my loss. "

" Is Desirae alright? Have they gone after her? "

" No.

Bourdin was chased down though. They seemed to have ruffled his feathers a bit but he managed to survive his plucking. Suffice to say he's a much more gentle person, not much nicer to his dancers though.

That's about as close as they got to her. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis listened attentively as Richard related what had happened.

"Is she on her way here, or does she plan to stay in Paris?" Weir asked when Enfield had finished.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" She would like to, yes.

Speaking of which... "

He pulled out some crumpets and jam, white pudding, and oatcakes.

" She mentioned that you could get her a job at some cabaret around here...

Just when do you intend to do so? "

He took his seat with a hard, intense look in his eyes. It was somewhat accusing but it was more worried than anything. Utterson seemed confused.

" Can you Lewis? Do you know an agent of sorts? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"Now that I know she is, indeed, coming to London, I can set about making the arrangements," answered Lewis. "Will she be making the journey alone, or bringing her friend with her?" he inquired.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I don't know.

She said her friend's been homebound as of late. Says she won't leave their apartment. I can ask when I write to her today. "

He took an oatcake and munched on it.

" Don't know why you're concerned though. "

" He just wants her to be comfortable, that's all. It's always good to have someone to travel with, especially when it's a place you've never been. "

Gabriel exchanged a look of quiet joy with Lewis before turning his attention to making a makeshift meal of his own. Richard just snorted back.

" He doesn't even know her friend... "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Actually, I've met her," Lewis informed Enfield. "She seemed a decent sort--caught up in affairs she'd rather have avoided, all for the sake of a friend. It wouldn't do for ill to befall such a kind person, particularly at Peverell's hands--hence why I hoped she might be making the journey with Desirae," he explained.

"Additionally, if she is accompanying her, I shall need to request additional employment from my acquaintance; therefore, any knowledge you may have of whatever skills she may possess would be most appreciated."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" When did you meet her? "

Richard posed the question for both himself and Gabriel.

" I don't recall you ever having to chance to see her. "

" She might've known how to find you perhaps? Or at the very least how to navigate the city... "

Utterson caught a confused scowl from Enfield but didn't give away his act.

" He came back with you and Desirae. I stayed to pack anything you would need. "

He arched his eyebrows in a look of partial innocence, a look more of a parent than a cousin, and took a bite of pudding before he could be questioned. Richard huffed.

" Well, that just casts a worse light on the situation. I know Florine spent some time working at the den I was in charge of but they don't let former lays in. "

He looked Lewis over with a familiar suspicion, not unlike when he had blanched at the mention of quicksilver.

" Unless, of course, she went to go working there again... "

A brief pause. A shake of the head.

" In any case, I can most certainly tell you what I know, but it's probably better to ask her herself when she gets here. I'm sure you and her would like to get a better chance to talk. "

Gabriel cut in politely.

" Just out of curiosity, What can your acquaintance provide? Would he merely be providing the job and lodging or would she still have to go through the motions and apply for it? "

" And where will she be lodged, assuming they provide for it? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Florine and Desirae are the ones who learned of Peverell's letter about you. If not for them, we'd never have known the danger you were in," Weir replied to Richard. "I met her when they came to your house and Gabriel and I were there. They're the ones who told us where you were. Desirae and I then went to fetch you. You know the rest.

"As to employment and lodging," he continued, addressing Utterson and Enfield both, "my acquaintance can provide the former--for Desirae, definitely--while the latter would presumably be paid for with wages earned."

He's a trusted associate, not Santa Claus, Lewis thought but did not say.

"As for Florine...if she is coming, then I shall ask him about employment for her as well. Bear in mind, I must know her skills before I can do so."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

A moment of contemplation passed over the two. Utterson pondered what he could do to aid in paying for an apartment for the two women while Richard thought hard on if there was anything he could do.

There was a thought that he might be able to move in with them but one look at his current situation said the opposite. If he were to move in, he'd want to be able to with things past chores and moral support. Money would certainly a be necessary requirement in that situation and he had none. And least he forget, he still was going through his recovery...

He sighed and mulled this over while Utterson chirped up optimistically.

" I think we can figure something optimal for the two of them. I'm not in need of anything and won't be for a long time, so I can spare a little bit for them, if for the first year or so.

They seem like they'll settle in very quickly. Hardy pair the two are. "

He smiled and clapped his hands together.

" So once you get a solid answer from Desirae we can work from there! "

Richard looked up and partially mirrored his cousin's look, a sense of expected disappointment in his manner. One thing gained but far from the freedom he wanted.

Still, it was comforting to get to see her again, maybe even see that she is treated better. They might even have the chance to go out and about again. It would be a mighty step up from having everyone know who she is and throw glares her way.

He smiled at the thought of seeing her face once again.

" Let's do that then. I'll make that my task for the day then. I'll write to her once we're done her and have it sent posthaste. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"An excellent plan," agreed Lewis.

"By the by, Richard...I know what Desirae's profession in Paris was. Would she want to continue similar work in London, or do something different?" He spoke with a curiosity borne of practicality, nothing more.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I imagine so.

I can't really imagine a reason for her not to, not immediately when she's moved somewhere new anyways. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Perhaps you might ask her," Weir suggested, "since we'll need to know about Florine anyway."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I'll be sure to ask her. "

He nodded then restarted on his breakfast.

" That said, let's not linger. The quicker I get the chance to write, the better. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"True," replied Lewis, helping himself to what was available.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Utterson said nothing, happy enough that it seems that everyone was getting along and finally agreeing on something. This was mostly because Richard seemed to be much more willing to work with them despite the previous evening.

He's finally getting it.

With this thought, he engaged the both of them in light conversation, spending the time happily enough till each went about their tasks. He in particular had a meeting coming up with a potential client and afterwards he had a promise to keep to Enfield and take him out to a show.

In the meantime, Richard was engaged in letter writing and the eventual delivery.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis, meanwhile, went to the Society for Arcane Sciences, as per usual.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

This was the set up for the rest of the week mostly.

Utterson with his appointments, Enfield keeping in touch with Desirae, Lewis doing his rounds along with Richard's treatment. He took to his shots with a new, subdued vigor as each meant his partner was another step closer to his arms. It was something he couldn't wait for, to see her in the distance, to swoop her up and hold her close, the next night where they lay ever closer.

When the staff were stealthy enough, they could catch the man smiling to himself with an easy air, quite unlike his usual attitude around the others.

Gabriel in the mean time was working on another big case and did his best to divvy his time between work, his cousin, and resting. To his nagging regret, he couldn't give his all to his reading and do his absolute best for his client but he knew if he did, another incident with Richard, whether it be medical or personal, would be his reward.

Miss Desirae Charbonneau, dancer and perfomer, lover to Richard Thomas Enfield, was currently in a tizzy.

She wanted to make sure she took everything she could with her and leave Bourdin and Peverell's gang in her dust. She seemed almost giddy to be leaving, actually smiling in her dressing room and skipping down the halls. Many couldn't imagine what might have shifted her attitude with even more thought she had finally gone mad from dancing so long. The perceiving few could see clearly though that she was soon to be leaving, and with a little effort, planned one last get together for the long time strength of their company. To this, her joy took a more sober note.

For so long, she had kept these women and men in her heart and mind, working beside them and offering them her help at all times. It was a hard pill to swallow that she may never get to see them again, a harder pill that she may have been the one thing keeping their wages full. It wasn't a matter of narcissism but more a heavy thought of how much she done for the stage of one small cabaret, one little den of lurid dreams put to reality...

What could she do to help these friends now, when she was to be shipped of elsewhere and join another company, another world entirely?

Her feelings were felt through the other and together they resolved to make this one last gathering the best they had. There was drink had, secrets shared, tears shed, and laughter all around. Together, they sang and danced and made the night last into the next day.

All culprits in their exhaustion, they finally went their separate ways and bid each other the best, their souls lighter knowing the future was ever present and ever promising.

Heading home, she did her best to get a nap in before she left for her ship and for her lover across two seas, one of distance and one of devotion.

Florine in the mean time was anxious, borderline skittish even. She had kept an ear out for news of Perverell's little nook of crooks and all bid ill for her. They were chasing down any possible connection to the incident that night, when she and Desirae had attempted to pilfer their records. There were many reports of the innocent being brutalized in the streets, fights breaking out, a fire at Enfield's former abode...

Desirae was determined to have her leave with her. There was no saying no to her, not when she was so close to escaping form the danger of the druglord's reach for good. It took some time, days even, and many a quiet evening till she very reluctantly agreed to join her. It was barely what one would consider a true definitive yes, but so long as she showed any sign of consideration, it was a firm yes in the dancer's books.

And as the day dawned ever closer to them, she couldn't help but wonder what could happen next. How are they to smuggle her out of the country, knowing that Shepard's men lurked around every corner. Surely it would be suspicious that one streetwalker went missing then suddenly reappeared. And for that same midnight madame to go off to England the very same day...It all just bode too heavy in the spinster's heart.

Time waits for no one though, and her faithful flight with her long time companion stood waiting at the door. And she would have to face it with what bravery she had.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

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sagittis nec etiam. Ligula mus nulla magna diam luctus fames ullamcorper

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This was the set up for the rest of the week mostly.

Utterson with his appointments, Enfield keeping in touch with Desirae, Lewis doing his rounds along with Richard's treatment. He took to his shots with a new, subdued vigor as each meant his partner was another step closer to his arms. It was something he couldn't wait for, to see her in the distance, to swoop her up and hold her close, the next night where they lay ever closer.

When the staff were stealthy enough, they could catch the man smiling to himself with an easy air, quite unlike his usual attitude around the others.

Gabriel in the meantime was working on another big case and did his best to divvy his time between work, his cousin, and resting. To his nagging regret, he couldn't give his all to his reading and do his absolute best for his client but he knew if he did, another incident with Richard, whether it be medical or personal, would be his reward.

Miss Desirae Charbonneau, dancer and perfomer, lover to Richard Thomas Enfield, was currently in a tizzy.

She wanted to make sure she took everything she could with her and leave Bourdin and Peverell's gang in her dust. She seemed almost giddy to be leaving, actually smiling in her dressing room and skipping down the halls. Many couldn't imagine what might have shifted her attitude with even more thought she had finally gone mad from dancing so long. The perceiving few could see clearly though that she was soon to be leaving, and with a little effort, planned one last get together for the long time strength of their company. To this, her joy took a more sober note.

For so long, she had kept these women and men in her heart and mind, working beside them and offering them her help at all times. It was a hard pill to swallow that she may never get to see them again, a harder pill that she may have been the one thing keeping their wages full. It wasn't a matter of narcissism but more a heavy thought of how

much she done for the stage of one small cabaret, one little den of lurid dreams put to reality...

What could she do to help these friends now, when she was to be shipped of elsewhere and join another company, another world entirely?

Her feelings were felt through the other and together they resolved to make this one last gathering the best they had. There was drink had, secrets shared, tears shed, and

laughter all around. Together, they sang and danced and made the night last into the next day.

All culprits in their exhaustion, they finally went their separate ways and bid each other the best, their souls lighter knowing the future was ever present and ever promising.

Heading home, she did her best to get a nap in before she left for her ship and for her lover across two seas, one of distance and one of devotion.

Florine in the mean time was anxious, borderline skittish even. She had kept an ear out for news of Perverell's little nook of crooks and all bid ill for her. They were chasing down any possible connection to the incident that night, when she and Desirae had attempted to pilfer their records. There were many reports of the innocent being brutalized in the streets, fights breaking out, a fire at Enfield's former abode...

Desirae was determined to have her leave with her. There was no saying no to her, not when she was so close to escaping form the danger of the druglord's reach for good. It took some time, days even, and many a quiet evening till she very reluctantly agreed to join her. It was barely what one would consider a true definitive yes, but so long as she showed any sign of consideration, it was a firm yes in the dancer's books.

And as the day dawned ever closer to them, she couldn't help but wonder what could happen next. How are they to smuggle her out of the country, knowing that Shepard's men lurked around every corner. Surely it would be suspicious that one streetwalker went missing then suddenly reappeared. And for that same midnight madame to go off to England the very same day...It all just bode too heavy in the spinster's heart.

Time waits for no one though, and her faithful flight with her long time companion stood waiting at the door. And she would have to face it with what bravery she had.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

The week went rather normally for Lewis--a few bumps here and there at the Society, but nothing overly out of the ordinary.

Once Enfield had heard back from Desirae, Weir was able to make the necessary arrangements; she and Florine would have jobs waiting for them when they arrived--Desirae as a performer at a music hall, and Florine as waitstaff.

Lewis informed Richard and Gabriel that all was in readiness.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Fantastic! "

Utterson beamed as they rocked lightly in the carriage. The familiar visage of Dover's cliff lay only a few miles ahead of them, the smell of the sea already permeating their cabin through a thinly crack window.

The two cousin's sat to one side while the doctor the other. Behind them another carriage followed for their seafaring friends.

The seat beside Lewis was occupied by two gift boxes wrapped with wrapped with thin bows.

It was a purchase made by Gabriel, with the oversight and approval of Richard, and was meant for the cooler weather. It were women's shawls, one with fabric of a fair wool texture with a little red beads woven into it, matching its cinnabar color, while the other was sea green with similar design. Along with those were also two pairs of gloves, each made of thicker yarn and for more practical warmth compared to the shawls, whose purpose lent more to fashion.

The lawyer look out the window to their coming destination.

" I'd say we might be just meet them as they come, assuming they had no delays. "

He settled back down and looked between his companions.

" And if not, we have time to wait for them. At least a good handful of hours. "

Richard nodded slightly, not really listening to anything that was said. He sat with his chin in his hand, keeping in an whirling knot of unease in his chest. Nothing could truly help untie it save for the appearance of his long awaited half. Only then could he unwind and relax, knowing fully that she made a safe passage.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Excellent," replied Lewis.

For his part, he'd brought several umbrellas, just in case it rained.

They arrived at the port and settled in to wait.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Much to their delight, they didn't have to wait long for the ship to come into sight. Just ten miles off shore, it was short time till it came into the dock and anchored down.

An excited air took over the cousins as their expected visitors waved to them from behind the ships railing. Richard and Desirae were especially animated when each came into sight.

" Ahh! Desirae!! "

" [ Richard~!!! ] "

Florine had to swoop in to keep the dancer from completely leaning over into the water.

" [ My Heart!! My Soul!! ] "

" ][ Oh darling, how I've missed you!! ][ "

They were like magnet, perfectly mirroring the other steps as they came no closer till the sailors put down a board to cross over. Utterson and Florine could only follow and keep them from knocking people over in their rush, each trying to imagine how they even manage to stay apart for more than a single day.

To their relief though, a board was put down and the two halves came smashing into a passionate whole. Richard ran caught her mid-jump and took her into his embrace, spinning round on his heels and burying his face into hers. She in turn laughed uproariously, letting the feeling of weightlessness take her over.

They stopped spinning to regain their composure which was swiftly lost again as they rapidly began their affectionate onslaught, talking over each other as they looked over each other like they had crossed death itself.

Florine joined Utterson and Weir with a polite glance at the sight.

" Well it seems we made it out well enough. Now all we have to do is get them home before they strip right here, right now.  "

Utterson choked on sudden laughter.

" Oh goodness! Let's hope not! "

He looked to her with arched eyebrows.

" [] Don't jinx it. [] "

The older woman tittered in reply.

" Oh no, I won't. But they will.  "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis was unable to stifle a guffaw.

"[Come, come]," he bade the two lovebirds, motioning them over. "[Your carriage awaits.]" He gestured to the carriage in question, presuming he, Utterson, and Florine would take the other, as Weir wagered the couple would appreciate some privacy.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Desirae let out a playful gasp.

" [ Oh Richard! A private carriage for the two of us? You spoil me~! ] "

" ][ You would've done the same ][ "

He leaned in and kissed her neck, the performer entering another fit laughter.

" [ God, please! Please~! Keep it easy till we get home! ] "

She returned his kiss with a coy smile.

" [ I'm sure you've been a lonesome enough since I've been absent. You certainly seem so. ] "

She leaned in close and laid her head against his chest. Enfield blushed lightly and took her hand in his.

" ][ You can't even fathom how much I've missed you. ][ "

A smirk.

" ][ I can't understand it myself even. I think I need another head to help think it over. ][ "

" [ Two isn't enough? ] "

She pinched his nose with a snort.

" [ How greedy of you ] "

She got only dark blush in reply. Happy with this, she looped her arms with his and looked over to Weir and skipped with her heart in tow to the carriage where they climbed in and began further shows of affection.

Gabriel couldn't help but shake his head and smile.

" They might as well be attached at the hip. "

He turned at the sound of a wolf whistle as the sailors finished moving their luggage. A swift lawyerly scowl crossed his brow and put the man back a few steps. For some reason, a shiver ran down Florine's neck as the air grew still for the briefest of seconds before Utterson turned back with a smile.

" [] Ah, forgive me! Shall we leave? [] "

" Y-yes, lets!  "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

At the sound of the whistle, Weir snapped his head in its direction and glowered at the sailor who was its source.

As Utterson turned back toward the group, Lewis shifted his attention and expression in similar fashion to his friend.

"[Are you alright, Florine?]" Weir asked quietly as they made their way to the carriages--Desirae and Richard in one and Gabriel, Lewis, and Florine in the other.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" I-i'm alright, thank you.  "

She nodded out of politeness.

" Though you both gave me a spook over there.

I'll be sure not to cross either of you anytime soon. "

A chuckle.

" I see now where Enfield gets his temper from.  "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[Apologies]," offered Weir with a sheepish chortle as he helped her up into the carriage.

The trip to London was relatively swift, and they were soon seated at a little restaurant called Sutton's--which Lewis had recommended to the group--while the carriages waited outside.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

The lovers naturally took their seat beside one another, the warm glow of love filling the air around them. It seemed they had gotten up to some mischief but thankfully not the mischief that could potentially get them kicked out of their own ride home.

Florine seemed a little less fine then she had said before. It looked as if she was having some pain in her abdomen by the looks of it, but not enough to keep her from walking or chatting. At best, it may be a mere stomach ache, at worst, it may be a precursor to a day of trouble. She made no note of this however and went about herself as usual and looked around at the restaurant in quiet interest.

Utterson took his seat between Lewis and Florine, keeping the courting pair at the center of his vision, and then greeted their waitress with a wave.

" [] Ah Hello! We're-- [] "

He blinked, chuckled, then addressed her again.

" I'm sorry. Forgot where I was for a moment!

In any case, what I meant to say was that we're all ready to look over the billets. "

He looked to Florine and Desirae.

" [] I'm here if you need any help. I think I may not need to though. [] "

His comment referred to Lewis and Enfield, his superiors when it came to the parisian language.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"[No trouble at all]," answered the server--in truth, the owner's wife--in French more typical of Provence than Paris, though a faint Italian accent underlay it. She handed the group the bills of fare for them to look over--they were in English, Italian, French, and German.

Lewis smiled, the multilingual staff having been the primary reason he'd chosen this particular establishment.

"Buonasera, Signora Sutton. Mille grazie per essere stato così accomodante, come sempre."

The two had a brief, friendly exchange before Mrs. Sutton asked--in French and in English--what each person would like to drink.

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