| Logs |
2010 October 04
| Neverneverwhere |
| Realms |
Retired
| Reality Fault |
General Info
 |
| Realms: Taps Logs |
I'm Your Man
Roy is very quiet for longer than just a couple minutes. His eyes are open and he's blinking, so he's not completely paralyzed. When five minutes pass, Jacko asks without turning around, "You OK, Your Majesty?" He keeps as little inflection in his voice as possible, not wanting to influence the monarch.
After a moment Roy says, "I have been a fuckin' idiot, Jacko." There's the sound of rustling cloth as he stands and tugs his jacket and waistcoat into place. "Let's go find the hosts. I want to apologize." He winces at the words.
Suraksha is sitting with George and Melanie, comforting the distraught girl. For some reason poor Melanie has decided it's her fault Roy and George are at loggerheads, and Sulochana is letting the girl cry. George is, of course, flustered and distraught at Melanie's pain, and Sulochana smiles and suggests he fetch a nice drink for them all. That would doubtless help Miss Melanie buck up, yes? She pats Melanie's back, murmuring comfortingly to her as the girl cries against the Hetaera's shoulder. Since they're in a quiet side room, Sulochana is fairly sure they'll remain undisturbed.
The hosts of the party are good, and the party is going on with as much verve and enthusiasm as if the big to-do didn't happen -- even if there are several quiet conversations about the excitement of the upcoming duel. Roy is as unobtrusive as he can be as he finds the hosts and spends several minutes apologizing. He's not good at it -- it doesn't suit him -- and because it doesn't suit him it comes off that much more sincere.
The hosts are a bit stiff, because it was an exceedingly impolite thing for him to have done. Stiff or not, however, they do assure him he is still quite welcome. The groom's father even chuckles and says, "I can't say that I've not said a few rash things when in my cups. Just usually not quite so publicly." Roy chuckles wryly and withdraws after that, eyes roaming the room in search of Sulochana, George, and Melanie. He only finds George, who is getting champagne for the ladies. Roy speaks quietly to Jacko, "If I remember, I'm not supposed to approach him directly. But you can, as my second."
The portly gentleman spots Roy and Jacko as he heads quickly back to the ladies. He stiffens noticeably, then gives a chilly nod before very correctly ignoring them and heading for his ladies, who need him. Jacko gives Roy an exasperated look, but he knows the king is right and moves as quickly as he can without trotting to intercept George. He calls, "Sir George. A moment, if you please." Roy himself stays well back, giving all the 'not interested in talking' body signals he can. People are looking at him, and not all of them are disapproving.
The landlord frowns at Jacko, his cool eyes flicking once towards the king before he looks back. "I am technically not supposed to talk to you, Captain. Please tell me he has not egregiously offended my second as well?" He sighs, muttering, "I should have picked a man... but I couldn't disappoint the ladies..." That reminds him they're waiting for him, and he turns and hastens towards the private room again, "Walk with me if you must, Captain; I do not wish to keep the ladies waiting, or leave them alone any longer than absolutely necessary!" He sounds a bit pompous; he doesn't intend to but he's never been in such a position before. He's trying very hard to be the gentleman he wishes to be.
Jacko says, "Yes, Sir, I do understand that -- and his majesty would not dream of offending your second. Most especially because she could kill him dead in three seconds flat." The captain walks with the landlord, about half a step behind him; deferential, but not as deferential as he is to Roy, "I beg of you, however, to speak with my liege. He is... impetuous and..." Jacko hesitates, voice quite low, "I believe his words were motivated by gentle emotion that he's just not used to."
Sir George stops in shock, staring at Jacko with wide eyes , "Captain! That was no gentle emotion which caused the tears of these ladies!" He presses his lips together, then adds firmly, "I have nothing to say to the man, king or no. He will find we do not treat women so lightly here!" He turns and marches firmly towards the private room.
Jacko rolls his eyes at George's back and quick-steps to catch up, voice low, "Sir, please. I think you may actually find that the idea of a duel between your esteemed self and my liege is more distressing to the ladies than harsh words from a sadly intoxicated and besotted man."
George sniffs dismissively, then says crisply, "It is the ladies of whom he should beg forgiveness, then -- not I! I act only on their behalf."
Jacko asks in a deceptively mild tone, "Sir, I ask one favor of you. Ask the ladies if they think you should allow His Majesty to speak with them -- and you. They, after all, cannot offer forgiveness for a duel you called." He stops following George, "I will wait here for their decision."
The portly landlord pauses for a moment, thinking... then nods to Jacko, "That is an eminently sensible solution, Captain. I will do so. If you would excuse me for a moment, please?" He turns and heads off into the side room, carefully nudging the door closed behind him to give the ladies privacy.
Jacko's voice is almost soft enough that George might not know he's hearing it, "And killing a man is no easy thing on the conscience." Of course, Jacko is speaking of Roy's conscience. There is no doubt in his mind as to the outcome of the duel. King Roy is as deadly as he is charming... when he needs to be. One does not grow up with a family whose idea of a friendly tussle includes rebar without getting hardened.
George earnestly explains Jacko's request to both ladies, assuring them they need not speak with the king if they'd prefer not to. He also promises to stand by them both when Melanie looks worried and Sulochana looks cool to the idea, and suggests they speak in public. That cheers up Melanie; Sulochana looks unconvinced but isn't going to keep Melanie from mending fences if she wishes. Neither of them really want to see George duel Roy, although neither of them mention that troubling fact.
Suraksha helps Melanie tidy up a bit, assuring her she looks fine. After that George gallantly escorts them both out of the room. Melanie is clutching George's arm a bit anxiously; Sulochana is looking decidedly cool still. Jacko, meanwhile, has motioned Roy over and the king is standing beside him. Roy is rubbing one temple with his fingertips and muttering, "Whatever she slipped me is makin' my head feel like it's in a gator's jaws..." and then the ladies and George emerge from their private room. Roy immediately has to step on the surge of anger that tries to well up. That's going to get them nowhere, he knows.
Roy takes a half-step forward and says, "Sir, thank ya for convincin' the ladies to let me speak with them. First thing I gotta say is, I was a fu- a fool. An' a rude one." He turns so his gaze is mostly on Melanie, "Miss Melanie, you have been a jewel. A true southern lady an' I am an idiot for not treatin' you like a treasure. Wouldn' blame ya if ya never wan'ed t' see me again. It'd be my own da- my own fault. And I'd be 'shamed o' myself fer the rest o' my life."
Melanie, though nervous and still upset, is a soft touch -- she does have a soft spot for the boyish scoundrel of a king. Her face is softening as he talks. Suraksha frowns, her eyes still cold. She doesn't like that Roy seems to be sweet-talking Melanie yet again, but she's not sure it's her place to get in the way. On the one hand, Melanie is an adult... and yet... to 'Chana, this is clearly appearing to be an increasingly abusive relationship. Suraksha is also keenly aware that saying he is really really really sorry is not going to make her forgive Roy for calling her a whore.
Roy continues talking to Melanie, "Unfortunately, if I'm gonna be a gentleman, I also gotta say that I don' think y'oughta be seen with me any more. Lady as sweet and lovely as you... she deserves a fella's gonna do right by her. And I ain't that guy." Melanie catches her breath, looking dismayed, but Roy goes on, "It'd be a real shi- shifty thing to do to ya. I ain't gonna abandon ya. Yer welcome on the Proud Mary and I'll have yer things all moved to private quarters if ya'd like."
Suraksha sighs softly in relief, then leans to whisper to George: would he be willing to offer Miss Melanie a place to stay while Sulochana is there? She smiles faintly, guessing her presence will make it all right to George... and perhaps when it's time for her to leave, George and Melanie will be even more interested in each other?
Melanie, though dismayed, can see this is costing Roy a great deal. She puts her fingers over her mouth for a moment and then says, "Roy, my dear, I..." She takes a deep breath, "I forgive you." She reaches out both hands to take his, smiling sadly and giving a sweet, melancholy little laugh, "My momma always did say you weren't the marrying sort." It is only years of training in decorum which keeps Sulochana from rolling her eyes in exasperated agreement!
Roy smiles tiredly and says, "Yer too kind, sugar." He licks his lips and says, "I... Miss Sulochana, I have somethin' I need to say, but I don't believe I can say it in public." He nods toward the room they just left, "If we can step in there... with the door open o' course. I give you my word, I swear on every drop of My Lady that I won' misbehave." His eyes are wide with nerves and he's hoping she'll know how sacred that vow must be to him.
Suraksha stands very, very still, watching Roy... rather like a tiger trying to decide if something is dangerous and should be attacked, or not. Roy watches her. He is, unusually, keeping his mouth quiet and just letting her try to decide on her own. Finally she murmurs through lips that feel almost numb, "You certainly managed to speak publicly before." She finds she really, really does not want to be alone with Roy. She has utterly no desire to let him hurt her so cuttingly again. Her fingers are unwittingly tightening on George's arm, and her unblinking stare hasn't left Roy for an instant.
Weirdly, as he's watching her, Roy can see her pupils suddenly flare scarlet for an instant, as they dilate into lambent gold. The tiger is very close under her skin just now. He says, "That's true. I let m' pride an' the drink talk. I was hurtin', and I wan'ed t' show ya how bad I was hurtin', so I did a mean thang. Three minutes. With the door open. I promised yer godmomma I'd tell ya somethin'." He didn't actually make the promise out loud, but he figures it's true enough in spirit. He smiles a little, "You really wanna make me be on her bad side?"
Suraksha blinks at that, and her eyes narrow in sudden suspicion, "Is this something she has insisted you tell me, or is this something you wish to say."
Roy's rogue's smile flashes into being for less than a second and fades, "Both, really. Somethin' I ought say. It ain't a lie, if that's your worry." He asks Jack quietly, "Can you grab me a glass o' water?" The captain looks a little confused at that request, but looks around and flags down one of the circulating wait staff, getting a tumbler of water from her.
Suraksha has yet to smile at Roy, but she lifts her chin and says coolly, "You may speak to me, then, in private and keeping your distance. I make no guarantees for how long." With that she turns on her heel and stalks into the room, her spine stiffly straight. She fiercely promises herself she will break a damn chair over the asshole's head if he tries anything! Once inside she whirls around tensely, one hand resting on the back of a chair so the table is between her and the door -- and so she has good egress to either side of it to swiftly exit should she so wish.
Roy nods and follows her. He takes the water with him and keeps his back to the door. They're far enough away that they can speak quietly and not be overheard, but a ruckus will be easily noticed. Suraksha snaps quietly, once Roy's in the room, "Move out of the door. I won't be boxed in."
Roy steps slightly to the side so she can get around him, but he puts the water glass on the table and his body still blocks view of it from outside. "Of course. I promised I never would, Sulochana Jyotsana Suraksha Sesha, flame-eyed protector, an' I meant it. I may be a fuckin' asshole, but I don't Welch on my promises."
Suraksha raises a cool eyebrow, "If I ask the Captain of your personal guard whether you keep your promises, what will he tell me?" She can feel the anger building, and she reins it in fiercely, simply staring at Roy.
Roy says, "He'll tella ya that I am a fuckin' asshole that makes him wanna smack me sometimes. But that I would never try t' make a slave of a free soul." He holds his hand out toward the water glass and his eyes go a little distant, "Cherie, you wanna know why I been such an asshole? The truth of it?" The water in the glass is stirring, trickling upward into the air.
Suraksha isn't sure what Roy is doing, but she's still wound way too tight from emotional pain. Her slitted golden eyes narrow as Roy starts playing with water, his natural Tapping ability, and she has to resist the urge to crouch warily, like a hunting tiger. She makes herself straighten again, her fingers tightening on the back of the chair and the scarlet dress shimmering like a live flame as she shivers with anger and adrenaline. Her voice is soft, but not gentle, "That... is not what I asked." She's silent a moment, then adds warily, "What are you doing."
Roy says, "Showin' you something..." The water trickles upward, creating lines and curves, droplets shimmering in the air as it becomes Sulochana's face, laughing -- a shivering portrait, "I could do this in my sleep. I could do it 'cause seems like ever' time I close my eyes, this is what I see. An' I don' like it. Not one bit. Ever'one I've ever loved is dead, cherie." Suraksha's feral-eyed gaze flicks from Roy's face to the liquid image, then back again. She says nothing, simply listening carefully. Roy adds, "Ever'one but you."
Suraksha's eyes narrow again. She's furious with Roy, but she can't believe he'd threaten her. She remains silent again, waiting for explanation. Roy sighs and takes his hand back, letting the water spill back into the glass, "Guess yer godmother's wrong. She thought if I told ya how I feel 'steada just gettin' mad that you don' feel the same, you'd unnerstan'. Hell with it." His shoulders slump.
Suraksha stares at Roy silently for a few heartbeats, then says slowly, enunciating with care, "Less than half an hour ago you publicly called me a whore. Just now you told me you do not like thinking of me. You said everyone you loved was dead -- except for me. What am I supposed to think, Roy? Do you want me dead too?"
Roy shakes his head and sighs, "No, cherie. I'm sayin' I've been actin' like a chile 'cause I'm scared o' losin' you, too. I wan'ed to hurtcha, cause ever' time I see you with that man, I wanna punch 'im inna nose an' take you back from him. An' I don' like feelin' like a love-struck fool, trailin' after a woman that don' love me."
Suraksha nearly gapes at Roy, utterly speechless. Finally she manages to get enough breath to ask, "Roy, are you... are you mad?! What did you think I meant when I said I had feelings for you?!" She stalks out from behind the chair, her eyes ablaze -- although this time it's fire, not ice, that makes them glow.
Roy slumps into a chair at the table, "I know you care 'bout me, cherie. But I want you near 's much as I need to be near My Lady. An' that's breakin' th' rules."
Suraksha stares in almost awe down at Roy, her eyes still wide, "Did it... I have to ask: did you ever think to just talk to me -- instead of trying to hurt me so?" Angrily she adds, "Which you did quite effectively, I might add!" She's not thinking clearly -- her hand shoots out and she grabs a handful of his hair, "Look at me, dammit! You don't get to hide how you feel here -- you sure didn't let me hide!"
Roy winces and grits his teeth, looking up at her, heart quite naked in his eyes, "Cain't hide it. Been tryin' to since I first saw you with that... that..." He sighs, "George. Harder I try t' stuff it down, stupider I act."
Suraksha leans so her face is closer to Roy's, and for once she's flashing cleavage completely unintentionally. She hisses furiously, "He. Is. A. Client! He is not you! Did you think he compared?!" She shakes her head, still having trouble grasping this, "I cannot -- I just do not understand: why didn't you talk to me?!"
Roy reaches up, starts to touch her face -- and then remembers she withdrew permission for him to do so. His whole face is more tired than she's ever seen it, "'Cause I'm an idiot." He smirks, "So, I tole ya. I love ya. I'm an idiot. I'll stay outta yer hair."
Suraksha snaps angrily, "No! No, you don't get to do that!" She grabs his lapel with her other hand, shaking them both -- and unwittingly yanking Roy's hair a bit as she adds, "You owe me a huge apology, and you are damn well going to give it! And then I expect you to treat me right, like a lady, and I expect you to behave like you mean it when you say you love me!" She can feel tears welling up and her voice chokes up a bit as she adds, "Because if you don't -- if y-you -- if you hurt me like that again, Roy, I will -- I swear, I will eat you!" She blinks, tears rolling unnoticed down her cheek as she realizes that doesn't quite sound how she meant it to, and adds a bit forlornly, "or... or something!"
Roy can't stand to see her crying and his arms move before he can stop them, one hand guiding her head to his shoulder as he says, "Shhh... shhh... cherie, you know it breaks m'heart when you cry."
Suraksha sinks down without thinking about it onto Roy's lap -- she's always felt safe there, previously -- and wraps her arms tightly about his neck as she cries on his shoulder. Her sobs are muffled against him; her training won't let her bawl where she can be seen. She cries out the betrayal of being hurt so piercingly accurately by Roy, although when she (relatively quickly, since she's somewhat in public) comes back to herself she remembers to pull a hankie and stifle the rest of her tears -- she can't keep people waiting, and she doesn't want to worry Melanie or George. She sniffles a bit once she's gotten herself mostly back under control, her head bowed, and her voice is tired, "Wh-what are we going to do, Roy? You can't just go around punching my clients, you know." She blinks, the absurdity of that statement registering, and can't suppress a watery giggle.
Roy smirks at himself, "We're gonna try an' stop this duel, 'cause I don' wanna kill that poor pompous bastard, but I'd do it 'fore I'd let 'im kill me. I'm too damn stubborn to be that noble. 'Sides, either way that went, I'd lose ya fer good 'n all. 'Fore that, though, wancha t' say it out plain. Mebbe my brain'll get it then... how d'you feel 'bout me, cherie?"
Suraksha blinks at Roy a bit blankly, then laughs hollowly, "You -- you really don't get it? Roy, I love you. I-" She ducks her head, wiping tears from her eyes as she says softly, "I couldn't look at you in the warehouse when I pretended to sell you to Moynahan because I couldn't bear to see the hate on your face. I said what I did there, I kept talking about trust to you, because I was desperately hoping y-you'd maybe forgive me some day for that!" She laughs shakily, her head coming up as she adds softly, "I th-thought I was dreaming... when I woke up the next day and you were still there!"
Roy shrugs and says simply, "I'll always be there. Metaphorically, o' course." The surge of relief is making him a little giddy and that wicked grin of his is back, "Be sorta awkward fer yer clients if I was really always there," -- and then he kisses her. Suraksha can't help it -- her not-quite-hysterical giggle against Roy's lips is muffled, but she hugs him tightly close to her. The sheer, melting relief she feels is so overwhelming that for a moment she forgets they can be seen, and that she has a worried client waiting out there with Roy's erstwhile date.
Roy rests a hand on the small of her back and smiles against her mouth before breaking the kiss, "Oh, now yer laughin' at me..." he teases. There's a discreet cough from just outside the door.
Suraksha squeaks and nearly rockets backwards out of Roy's lap at the cough! She catches herself against the edge of the attractive little sofa -- mostly by falling seated into it. She stares in horror at Roy and the person who coughed, one hand to her mouth and her face pale. "Dear Lady, I... wha-..." Her voice trails off as she tries to hastily collect her thoughts.
The cough is from Jacko, who is smirking a little bit. Outside the door Suraksha can see Sna'tha has stepped in to keep Melanie and George from looking into the room. Roy chuckles a little, relieved and with his eyes gleaming with mischief, "So, you think ya might see yer way clear ta tellin' George he don' need to defend yer honor, cherie?"
Suraksha sighs gustily, slumping slightly in relief once she realizes she's not hurt poor George and Melanie. She takes a slow breath or two... then sits up again, her shoulders back. Her smile is firm, "Yes, I do. After you've apologized to him." She narrows her eyes at Roy, adding sternly, "I also want some promises from you, Roy." She rises, her hands swiftly patting her skirts back into place, automatically checking her 'look' as she talks, "You cannot simply dump Miss Melanie, although I think you are on the right track. I'll see if I can talk George into asking her to visit, but I'd like you to be her escort tomorrow at the actual wedding." Her smile is both determined and teasing as she adds, "And I want you to stick close to George and myself, so you don't get distracted and vanish on her, either!" She adds sternly, "You brought her here, after all. It's not fair to her otherwise."
Roy actually looks a little injured, "I thought I made it clear that I wasn't gonna just dump 'er? I may be a pain in th' ass, but I wouldn' abandon her here. She's a sweet girl. If she'll consent to be seen with me, I'd be proud t' squire her to the weddin'." He stands up himself, shooting his cuffs and checking his cufflinks, which are made of river pearls. "An' I promise not to punch Sir George in his upturned nose."
Suraksha has to cover the giggle, and her eyes are dancing when she says in shocked tones, "Your majesty! Such language!" She grins at Jacko, adding in more heartfelt tones, "Thank you, Captain. I would not have hurt George and Melanie for anything." She heads for the door, her eyes still dancing as she airily adds, "Especially since they do seem to be spending quite a bit of time talking very earnestly to each other!"
Roy is following close behind her, and remembers something, reaching to stop her, "Gotta question." Suraksha is already pulling on her 'business' face, and she gives him a rather raised eyebrow when he so familiarly takes her arm. She doesn't pull away though; she neither feels the need to do so, nor does she want to give George the impression there is still a problem. Roy's eyes are dancing a little bit, "This usually goes t'other way, but do I have your permission to court you, Miz Sulochana of the fiery eyes?"
Suraksha blinks at Roy, her eyes widening and dilating in shock as she stares up at him! It's only years of training that keeps her from gaping at the king. Then she takes a long, almost gasping breath and laughs, her face alight with joy in a way that reminds Roy of the mental image he tried to create with the water for her. She presses the fingers of both hands to her lips for a moment, trying to control her elation so the people outside don't get the wrong impression, and when she thinks she can speak without squealing excitedly she whispers, "Yes. Yes!" She laughs again behind her fingers, her golden eyes nearly shimmeringly bright -- then she grins and whispers to him, "You rogue -- you did that deliberately! I can't hug you or explain this to them, and you know it!" She reaches forward with one hand to give him a stiff-fingered poke in the chest, still grinning -- then whirls and heads towards the others. Her eyes are still shining, but she's managed to tone down the elation to a small, private smile.
Roy's eyes are dancing with mischief and his grin is brilliant as he watches her first squeak and then beam. He winks when she accuses him of doing it on purpose and then moves to follow her. Suraksha manages, by the time she's paced out of the room, to turn her smile into a firmly pleased one, as if she's just finished successfully chastising a naughty boy. She mentally thanks her Hetaera teachers; she'd never thought their (occasionally rather intensive) training in schooling expressions would be so precisely what she needed!
Roy paces out behind Sulochana, giving her a chance to speak with Melanie and George and giving himself a chance to speak with Jacko. He quietly but sincerely apologizes to his scar-faced bodyguard, adding, "I been a handful, I know. I'm gonna be hirin' Miz Sna'tha to work with y'all." He wrinkles his nose, "Which means I'm gonna be stuck inna palace a lot more, I reckon. Or hafta bring one-a y'all along."
Jacko manages not to actually smirk, but says, "Apology accepted, Your Majesty." They stand together and wait for a signal that Roy should join the two ladies and the landlord.
Suraksha takes one hand each of Melanie and George, first checking that Melanie is holding up all right. She smiles in relief at the girl's wide-eyed nod, then turns to George and explains that the Baton Rouge king seems to have come to his senses and appears to be sincerely repentant. He's asked for a chance to apologize to George, since he doesn't really want to duel. Sulochana asks George if he would please be generous enough to allow Roy to give his apologies? She's relieved Melanie is helping her with soulful, worried looks and clinging to George's arm, also prettily asking him if he would please, please do so. George, faced with the united appeal from two lovely women, cannot bring himself to refuse them -- although he does stoutly promise he will gladly defend them if necessary! Sulochana gives George a quick peck on the cheek in thanks, and the gentleman seems quite taken with Melanie's shining eyes as she too thanks him.
Suraksha turns and beckons to Roy, smiling. She and Melanie are, perhaps unwittingly, framing the stout landlord; they make quite the lovely pair when they're both relieved and pleased like this. She glances around as George stiffly braces himself for facing Roy, looking for her godsmother. She smiles and mouths a silent, very heartfelt, 'thank you!' when she spots Sna'thaid. The slender sidhe woman smiles and blows a small kiss to Sulochana... then turns and glides silently out of the room.
Roy walks over and inclines his head to George. The apology he makes is a very formal one and would seem a little overdone to anyone with less courtly manners than the stout and stodgy landlord. Roy manages not to swear and not to use slang, and George shakes his hand in the end. The shorter man's cheeks are a little ruddy as he admits, "I am relieved you understand how grievous your actions were, Your Majesty, and I am quite willing to call off the duel at the urging of the ladies... though I hope in future you will keep your tongue more in check!"
Roy manages, by a hair, not to smirk, "I will certainly put more thought in my words next time, Sir." The two men shake hands rather firmly and Roy, in a burst of magnanimity, invites everyone back to the Proud Mary for a nightcap after the dancing if they so wish.
Suraksha brightens hopefully at George and Melanie, "That might be delightful. What do you think?" She looks at Melanie, then back at George, adding softly, "George dear, might we also extend an invitation to Miss Melanie to stay with us?" She's seen the way the two of them are starting to look at each other; she can't resist an opportunity to let them become closer friends. She is also amusedly congratulating herself on not giggling at Roy needing to keep his tongue in check!
George considers it a bit and then says, "Why, certainly Miss Melanie may stay with us in town if she doesn't wish to stay with His Majesty..." George does suspect, deep in his heart, that most women would rather stay with Roy. Melanie glances at Roy anxiously and the king makes a little go-on motion with one hand, grinning affectionately at her. It's a bit odd for him to admit he's starting to feel almost brotherly toward her.
Suraksha thinks about it for a moment, then realizes getting Roy drinking around George might not be the wisest combination. She adds with a smile at Roy, "Perhaps we should see how late we stay before we commit to nightcaps, your majesty?" She dimples at George, adding in a soft whisper, "You are such a sweetheart, dear -- thank you so much!"
Melanie agrees to come stay with George and Suraksha, and George does a good job of not showing his relief at perhaps not joining Roy on the boat. Roy chuckles and says, "Well, the weddin's in the mornin', an' the ladies will wanna be fresh. We'll leave the invitation open for 'nother night." He shakes George's hand again and then kisses both Melanie's and Sulochana's hands, murmuring, "Ladies..." before he takes his leave of them.
Suraksha sighs and sags slightly in relief -- then flashes a quick grin at Melanie and George. "Thank goodness! I really didn't want a duel tomorrow to ruin the wedding." She beams at George, adding, "Especially since you had that beautiful dress made!" She smiles at Melanie, adding, "We'll have someone fetch your belongings, Miss Melanie; don't worry about a thing!" Gaily she adds, "And now: tripping the light fantastic!"
Roy stays long enough to dance a couple of times with Melanie, though he doesn't trust himself to dance with Sulochana. After that he tells Jacko he intends to get shit-faced; he talks the guardsman into going back to the Proud Mary to change into less reputable clothes so they don't look like someone a tough would want to mug. Jacko decides it would be better to be with Roy rather than letting the soused monarch stumble around the city on his own. Besides, Roy is actually rather a fun person to have a pub-crawl with.
From a distance the two men are also being unwittingly observed by Sna'thaid. The sidhe doesn't want her new employer-to-be, as well as Sulochana's sweetheart, to get shot or knifed. Past that, however, they're on their own! Sna'tha is very much of the learning-by-doing school of thought. The two men manage to hit two bars before Roy gets into a fight. Jacko doesn't do a thing to stop it until a second barfly tries to jump in on the other side. After that, the brawl becomes rather general and indiscriminate.
When the dust settles, Roy and Jacko are left standing with two or three other patrons of the bar. This, of course, is the point at which they all decide they are life-long friends and that this particular establishment has become a less-desirable neighborhood. Roy drops some money on the bar for the proprietor and they all move on to another bar. The order of the night at this one is singing soulfully and off-tune to honkytonk piano. It's an hour or so later, quite far into the wee hours, that Roy decides that he needs to go and reiterate his feelings for Sulochana. In song.
Suraksha, meanwhile, is having a lovely time dancing at the party. She's quite pleased at how often Sir George seems to have a reason to ask Miss Melanie to dance, and the Hetaera is not lacking for partners either. The threesome return to Sir George's apartment tired and happy, and find Melanie's entourage has arrived and settled all her goods into the room selected for her. It's several hours later that Sulochana slips from George's room and heads for hers, well-pleased with how happy her client is. Before she goes to bed she stands by her window, looking out and humming dreamily to herself. What an amazing night!
It doesn't actually take too much, in Roy's estimation, to bribe one of George's guards to tell him which room Sulochana is using; he picks his spot carefully to be able to see her. The fact that he is quite happily intoxicated... not mention a little battered... makes him less than graceful, so she actually hears him swearing quietly to himself before she sees him emerge into the moonlight. She blinks a bit startledly, straightening and staring down from her second-story window. Is that... surely not?! She laughs softly, pushing back the sheer drapes so she can see better, and murmurs to herself, "What on earth are you up to, Roy?"
Roy peers along the rows of windows and balconies. Jacko is not far behind him, but figures this is a fairly harmless idea his majesty has got. Besides, he's not completely sober himself. The king grins as he spots a dark face at the window -- and then he begins to sing. Surprisingly, it's not bad. It's less good than if he'd been sober, but it's not a caterwaul. His voice is deep -- deeper than one would think with his speaking voice -- and the song is an old ballad.
"If you want a lover
I'll do anything you ask me to
And if you want another kind of love
I'll wear a mask for you
If you want a partner
Take my hand
Or if you want to strike me down in anger
Here I stand.
I'm your man."
Suraksha blinks startledly again, reflexively glancing behind herself -- even though she's the only one in her room -- and praying everyone else in the house stays asleep! She hastily unlatches the French door and steps outside, leaning over the balcony to stage whisper, "Hush! You'll wake people!" She's half laughing, half exasperated as she adds, "What are you up to, you rogue? Shhh!"
Roy grins up at her and looks for some way to climb up. Luckily it's just the second story. He finds the guttering and starts to try and scramble up it. "I'm serenadin' you, cherie...
If you wanna boxer
I will step into the ring for you
And if you wanna doctor
I'll examine every inch of you
If you wanna driver
Climb inside
Or if you wanna take me for a ride
You know you can
I'm your man..."
Suraksha gasps, suddenly worried Roy will fall and harm himself, "No! No, Roy, wait there, all right? Don't try -- eep!" Either Roy is one of the most agile men on the planet, or the gods truly do look after fools and drunkards, because the king manages to make it up to the balcony and over the railing without killing himself or pulling down the railing. He's grinning like a fool and he moves to sweep Suraksha into his arms. She gapes at him in delighted startlement -- then suddenly her nose wrinkles and she backs away a step, laughing and with her hand fanning in front of her face, "Oh, eew, Roy! You smell like a brewery!"
Roy laughs, eyes twinkling, "Do not. Smell like a distillery." He takes a step closer, "That mean I don' getta smooch?"
Suraksha puts a hand on Roy's chest to stop him from moving forward any more, glancing worriedly behind her to make sure her room is still empty. Her voice is a soft, very amused whisper, "Hush, you troublemaker! You'll get your smooch when you're safe back on the ground, silly man!"
Roy looks down at his feet and says, "'M safe right here." He stomps, not hard, on the sturdy little balcony. Her room is still empty and is, luckily, on the other side of the building from George's.
Suraksha adds softly, "Wait here!" then darts into her room and latches the hallway door. After that she whips through her clothing, pulling on two layers of tunics for warmth and a hooded cloak for disguise, then breeches and soft boots. She laughs at him delightedly, her eyes shining, "Maybe so, but I'm not -- there'd be such a scandal if you were found here with me!" She straightens, smiling and walking swiftly towards him with one hand out, "Come, let's get you down safely. Then I'll bring my camel around and we'll get you back safe and sound to the Proud Mary." She shakes an amused finger at him, "You had better be here all cleaned up and respectable early tomorrow morning!"
Roy grins and motions down at the ground, "Go' Jacko wi' me. Gonna get me home safe. 'N make sure I'm back t'morra. 'M jez tryin'a courtcha, like I promised..." He tries again to wrap his arms around her.
Suraksha laughs, ducking easily out of his grab, "Sweetheart, court me on the way back to the Proud Mary, please? I do have a contract to fulfill until day after tomorrow, after all." She thinks, but does not say, [more's the pity] -- instead she leans over the balcony and calls softly, "Jacko! Jacko, are you there? We need your help!"
Jacko steps out of the shadows and calls quietly, "I'm here, ma'am. If you can get him to climb down, I'll catch him if he falls..." Roy grins at her and says, "Determined t' git me down there, hm?" He swings back over the balcony, dangling and then dropping lightly down.
Suraksha gasps, then winces worriedly, reflexively reaching for him and whispering, "Careful!" She looks down anxiously, checking to see if he's all right.
The alcohol and Roy's natural limberness has let him land safely. He beams up at her and stage-whispers, "It's not that far!"
Suraksha sighs in relief, leaning on the balcony... then she calls softly down, "All right -- wait there, please? I'll be right there!" She turns, closing and latching the windows behind her, then wrapping the cloak around herself. She closes her eyes for a moment, praying she won't be spotted or missed -- then she slips as softly and stealthily as she can down through the house to the tiny stables below. Amanda -- her pretty, good-natured white camel -- is there along with the matched pair of horses. She whispers soft reassurance to them all and grins as her camel grumbles quietly at her. Tossing on the hackamore and saddle, she quietly unlatches the smaller barn door, then peeks cautiously out.
George's household is an early-to-bed sort, so there aren't a lot of people about. Suraksha sighs in relief, leading out the camel with softly whispered encouragement, "Come, sweet girl -- help me get him safely home and I promise you carrots tomorrow!" She patters quietly around to the back of the building, pausing to glance cautiously around the corner and holding her cloak's hood to shelter her face.
Jacko and Roy are waiting for her where she left them under the balcony. Suraksha sighs in relief again, trotting over to them with the reins looped over one arm, dragging the sleepy camel after her. She whispers, "There you are, you scamps!" and throws her arms around Roy's neck -- now they're out of her room, she's happy to give him all the kiss he wants! Roy doesn't waste a moment, wrapping his arms around her in turn and bending his head to kiss her. Jacko's voice is quiet, "Sneaking out won't do much good. We bribed our way in."
Suraksha is a bit lost in kissing Roy at that moment -- it's only a few heartbeats later that she straightens, her eyes shining as she smiles up at Roy... then blinks at Jacko, "Er, pardon?"
Roy nuzzles into her hair, humming happily as he breathes in the scent of it, hands stroking happily down her back. Jacko's voice is quiet, "The guards at the front. His Majesty bribed them to tell him where your room was. They know we're here."
Suraksha blinks at Jacko, distracted by how lovely Roy feels... then her eyes fly wide and she whispers, "Oh, no!" She steps hastily back out of Roy's arms, dismay clear in her voice and face, "You didn't -- please tell me you didn't-" She cuts off, abruptly realizing Jacko wouldn't lie to her about this, and thinking furiously. Finally she whispers, "Please tell me you also bribed them to remain silent about this?" She can feel her heart sinking -- this will do terrible things to her reputation as both a Hetaera, and as someone who keeps her contracts. "Dear Lady of Serpents... how many of them were there? Guards never keep juicy secrets like that..."
Roy says, "Well. Guard. One. An' I bribed him t'keep quiet, yeah. 'M drunk, not stupid, cherie."
Suraksha sighs, shaking her head amusedly at the two men, "No offense meant, Jacko -- you're not the average guard." She glances at Roy, adding in affectionate exasperation, "You! Sometimes I could just shake you!" She laughs softly and shortly, wasting no more time, "Come on then -- let's get you out of here." She tells the camel to kush, and once Amanda has knelt she tugs on Roy's arm, "Hop up! Let's get going, difficult man."
Roy eyes the camel suspiciously, but does as he's asked. He's fairly pliant now he's worked out some of his anger and tension in the fighting and drinking. Suraksha sighs in relief, grabbing Roy's hands and whispering instructions to him so he doesn't simply fall off when the camel lurches up to her feet again. Roy's good luck or divine intervention keeps him on the camel's back; it probably helps that he's got his arms around 'Chana quite securely the whole way. Suraksha laughs softly as Roy first leans to brush a kiss against her face, then gets a startled look and grabs tight hold about her waist as the camel's hind legs straighten first.
'Chana keeps the camel striding quickly, heading in the general direction of the docs. Jacko strolls along with them as well, and she leans to whisper to Jacko, asking for directions to where the Proud Mary is berthed. After that she keeps a wary eye out. This is not a good time for lone people to be out -- and she'll be alone, even if mounted on a camel, on the way home. She'd prefer to avoid any problems!
Jacko leads her unerringly to the Proud Mary, where Alan is on watch. Roy isn't content with one kiss, but presses several to her neck and shoulders as they ride. Suraksha laughs softly, her eyes shining in the occasional faintly reflecting lights they pass. He continues singing, sometimes humming under his breath, and trying in a sweetly drunken way to convince her to stay a couple hours with him. She giggles and sings or hums softly along with Roy when she knows the tune, rubbing one hand lightly over his clasped hands about her middle. She's feeling somewhat tingly by the time they get back to the Proud Mary, and it takes all her personal discipline to gently refuse to stay -- because she'd really love to! Instead she twists enough to give Roy another passionate kiss, then sighs, smiling ruefully, "We have to be at the wedding tomorrow early, sweet man. I don't know about you, but I do have to have some sleep."
Once the camel has knelt, Roy has dismounted, and the camel is up again, Sulochana reaches out with one hand to gently brush her fingertips along his cheek, smiling quietly. Roy catches her hand and kisses her fingertips and then her palm, looking up at her with a tipsy grin on his face, "You're coming home with me after this. I'm hiring your godmother and the caravan will have to follow, yes?"
Suraksha is getting a bit smoky-eyed at the lovely sensations Roy is giving her, but at his question she looks a bit startled, "I, uh... what?" She shakes her head once, thinking quickly about the caravan... then smiles at Roy, "I guess we could. We have to escort some minor nobles back home, and after that it'll take us another three or four months to travel downriver to there... but Sna'tha usually spends six months on things like this, so it should be fine."
Roy thinks about that and says, "How long will the escort work take?"
Suraksha smiles reassuringly, "Oh, no more than a month -- two tops, I'm sure. It's mostly a courtesy, really, to make sure George gets home safely. Why?"
Roy chuckles and says, "Just impatient, cherie..." He lets go of her hand reluctantly, "I should have Jacko escort you home... I want you safe." It doesn't occur to him how silly that sounds at the moment. She can, after all, become a large and scary cat.
Suraksha chuckles quietly, reining the good-natured camel about, "Let the poor man go sleep! He's earned his rest after faithfully following you around bar-hopping all night," her grin gets mischievous, "-and he's going to need it if he's the one that's taxed with getting you up, cleaned up, and to George's home on time tomorrow morning." More gently she adds, "It's just a quick trot home, dear; don't worry about me." She smiles and waves over her shoulder as she hastily heads off, adding, "Sleep well and sweet dreams. See you tomorrow!" She doesn't want Jacko with her for the simple reason that she doesn't want him mugged on the way back to the ship, while he's alone. She's on a very well-trained camel -- one that won't freak if she shifts shape, and which is a good excuse for why horses are often skittish around her. Horses unused to camels tend to have hissy fits around them, after all.
The next morning Roy is rather miserable. Jacko is a bit less so and is able to get his liege up and mobile in time to put some food in him before they have to start getting ready for the wedding. The young lady and gentleman getting married were wise enough to have an afternoon wedding. A morning wedding after a party with alcohol would have been unpleasant for several people involved.
The king of Baton Rouge gets himself shaved, washed, and dressed rather dashingly. Contrary to his usual routine, however, he does get some help from Alan and Jacko. The tussles of the night before have left him with a few bruises and scrapes, one of which is on his cheekbone. It manages, somehow, to make him look roguish and interesting rather than utterly disreputable. Once he pulls on his spit-shined boots, they procure a carriage and set off for George's townhouse.
Suraksha has had a lovely and leisurely morning of it, sleeping in a bit and then having a late breakfast with George and Melanie. She notices the girl's almost melancholy quiet, so as she's buttering a croissant she cheerfully asks Melanie what she'll be wearing for the wedding. That, of course, sparks off conversation, and with a bit of gentle nudging the conversation soon includes George as well, as he and Melanie chatter happily about the textiles trading industry and transport. Sulochana smiles fondly as she nibbles breakfast and watches.
Later Melanie, 'Chana, and Melanie's maid have a lovely time preparing for the wedding. Melanie is being dressed in a lovely pale lilac that sets off her complexion and eyes wonderfully. She blushes a bit when 'Chana asks her if she still wants to be escorted by Roy and peeks at the door as if to make sure they won't be overheard. "I finally figured out last night who it is that Roy is jealous over... but since you're going to be on George's arm..." and here she blushes even more rosily, "I'll be happy to be escorted by his majesty. He is, after all, rather dashing."
Suraksha looks a bit embarrassed, "I am so sorry, Melanie, dear. I promise you I had no idea!" She takes Melanie's hands, her voice heartfelt, "I do hope you can forgive me." She is somewhat relieved neither Melanie nor George have asked what it was precisely that Roy said which so hurt and infuriated her. Melanie laughs and gives Sulochana a hug, assuring her there are no hard feelings -- and Roy's behavior was hardly 'Chana's fault!
'Chana is done dressing a bit earlier than Melanie, since she wants to check in on Sir George as well, but he too is in good spirits, his valet assiduously making sure his gentleman looks suitably elegant for both the affair and the lovely lady he'll be escorting. 'Chana laughs and waves her fingers at George, leaving him to be sartorially polished, and heads downstairs. She wants to be there when Roy and company arrive... just in case!
Roy, when he arrives, is wearing a tuxedo with a deeper lilac waistcoat and tie. They look rather nice with the king's own eyes and dark hair. The driver of the carriage delivers him, complete with corsage for Melanie, to the front door. Suraksha has him shown into the sitting room she's in while waiting for the others, and she rises and offers him a hand as he enters -- mostly so she can give him a careful once-over to make sure he passes muster for Miss Melanie! She grins at him, her eyes bright with happiness as she does so.
Roy's eyes widen as he sees Suraksha and he takes her hand, bending over it to kiss the knuckles and murmuring, "Cherie, are you sure that dress is legal for public wear?"
Suraksha laughs delightedly, reaching to gently pat Roy's cheek, "It's quite daring, I'll agree. Dear George had some truly lovely lace that I'd admired, and had a dress made of it for me. Isn't it lovely?" Her eyes twinkle as she adds perfectly deadpan, "Do you think I... pull it off?"
Roy blinks at her and his mouth literally drops open as he blurts, "This is what the hell he was talkin' 'bout? This dress?" He actually slaps himself on the forehead, "I'm a dumbass." Realizing how that sounds, he takes a deep breath and says, "Cherie, I'd love to pull it off myself."
Suraksha steps back slightly as she asks the question, turning in a complete circle so Roy can see her from all angles. Her hips are almost visible beneath the near-sheer cloth, shifting in fluidly suggestive grace; the back plunges far more than the front. She raises an amused eyebrow at Roy over one smooth, bare shoulder, her pendant gemstone earrings swaying and sparkling distractingly as she murmurs, "Oh, I wouldn't dare argue with your majesty's self-assessment! Also, I'm not sure how you'd get into it, to pull it off yourself?" There's laughter in her voice and her eyes, and then she curiously asks, "When were you two talking about my dress?"
Roy chuckles and, after looking around a moment, steps up behind her so he can wrap his arms around her briefly, hands framing her hips, "I, myself, would like to pull it off you, cherie. Good as it looks on you, it'd look ten times better off." He kisses her shoulder briefly and then prudently takes a couple steps back. At her question he clears his throat, "We weren't, actually... I overheard 'im tellin' you 'bout the lace."
Suraksha sighs softly, rather enjoying the feeling of Roy so close -- but knowing she cannot encourage him for at least one more day, darnit! She finishes turning around and steps forward once she's facing him, a slightly concerned look in her eyes as she reaches careful fingertips to delicately touch the now-clean scrape over Roy's cheekbone, "Are you all right, there? Also, I'm not sure why overhearing George makes you a, er..." she giggles, "a less than proper gentleman?"
Roy smirks and turns his head to kiss her fingertips, "Ain't nothin', cherie. Just a bruise. Fella hit me with a beer bottle last night." He snorts wryly, "I heard him tellin' ya 'bout th' lace an' I automatically thought it would be somethin' a little more... intimate than this lovely dress."
Suraksha has a confused moment where she's wondering how some aggressive barfly knows about her dress -- then she realizes who Roy is speaking of. She laughs delightedly, her head tilted back a bit to unwittingly accentuate her slender, delicate throat -- then she reaches out her hands to take Roy's, since she cannot currently hug him. Her voice is low and almost purring as she flutters her eyelashes at him and murmurs, "Really now... you'll have to show me later what you mean, then, mmm?"
Roy's eyes are going rather smoky when there's a light tap at the door and Jacko says quietly, "Sir George and Miss Melanie incoming."
Suraksha grins and turns, reaching for her small, beaded lace purse, "Let me put a little dab of makeup on that bruise, dear, so it doesn't show, all right?" She adds relaxedly, "Thank you, Captain!" as she picks out the small compact and eyes Roy thoughtfully. "Stand under the light there, please, your majesty?"
Roy wrinkles his nose and says, "Makeup? Hell, men're s'pose t' have bruises." However, he moves to stand under the light. George and Melanie arrive as she's applying the makeup.
Suraksha is dusting it lightly over his cheek, murmuring, "Men may have bruises, but gentlemen attending weddings do not!" She turns her head and smiles at the couple, adding, "Am I right? Also, how does that look? Better?"
Melanie looks amused, covering her mouth with her hand. George looks a little discomfited but covers it up nicely. Roy grins at Melanie and says, "Miss Melanie, you look stunnin'." The bruise is well hidden by the makeup.
Suraksha looks pleased, neatly tucking away her compact. She moves to stand by George, resting her fingers lightly on his arm as they watch the other couple. As Roy is being gracious to Melanie, offering her compliments and the corsage, Sulochana whispers just to George, "I fear he may have been roughhousing last night, as he had a bruised scrape there. I thought it best for Miss Melanie to attempt a bit of covering with makeup; don't you, dear?" George nods and tries not to look too scandalized by the idea of a king getting into fisticuffs with random toughs. Melanie, despite her growing regard for George, is rather charmed by Roy's compliments and is glowing as the king offers to share his hired carriage with George and 'Chana.
Sir George politely declines, as his lovely little barouche and pair are waiting for them at the door, and thanks Roy for the offer. He has his own carriage, but asks if Roy and Melanie will join them after the wedding for dinner, perhaps? There's a bit of back and forth, and then the two couples head away. Sulochana smiles, guessing there's a little bit of wanting to look stylish and elegant with the Hetaera, as well, in George's decision. She's relieved either way; she knows George knows to hire extremely well trained horses when with her (supposedly due to the camel), but she's not sure Roy would be able to find such, this late in the date. The day is beautiful and sunny, the ride to the wedding is delightful, and 'Chana is delighted as George informs her with a bit of nervous stiffness that she is looking extraordinarily beautiful!
Roy, as visiting royalty, is seated near the front in the church. 'Chana and George are midway back, so 'Chana gets to watch as Roy is charming but platonic with Melanie and keeps her smiling. The wedding itself is executed precisely as befits a girl of the bride's station. Her dress is a froth of satin, pearls, and lace, and the bridegroom is looking stunned at his good luck. Afterwards the guests retire to a marquee which has been set up on the spacious grounds of the church for the reception.
Suraksha sighs happily, her arm twined with George as they wait in the reception line, murmuring happily to the stoutly beaming landlord about how lovely the bride, the ceremony, and the day are. She also keeps half an eye on Roy and Melanie, deeply pleased at how well behaved he is being. She doesn't mention him at all, though, not wanting to dampen George's mood whatsoever. She very much enjoys weddings; not only are there a lot of very happy people there who are usually trying to be on their best behavior, and excellent networking opportunities for a smart Hetaera -- but frequently there is also dancing! There is indeed music playing and a dance floor set up for those that wish to indulge after the wedding dinner.
George agrees with her, and his eyes keep straying to Melanie and Roy. Once they have gotten through the reception line, he asks, brows knitted, "May I ask you a delicate question, dear?"
Suraksha smiles, guessing the general gist of what is coming next. Her voice is softly reassuring, "Of course, George. How may I help?"
George's voice is a bit puzzled, "What, precisely, is it about King Roy that is so... irresistible to ladies? Even Miss Melanie, who is rather put-out with him, is seeming enchanted."
Suraksha chuckles relaxedly, "He is a charming rogue, dear. I believe it is the uncertainty, the sense of risk: he knows how to behave like a gentleman, but he is quite willing not to!" She smiles and pats George's arm, adding amusedly, "I suspect he is like candy: a delight to the tastebuds, but not something you'd want to live on." She smiles again as she thinks, but carefully does not add, [like the Hetaera, in a way.]
George mulls this over and nods carefully, "Ah. Another question?" His neck is a bit red, hinting that this may be the question she was actually expecting.
Suraksha chuckles quietly and murmurs gently, "As many as you wish, dear George. At worst I shall courteously decline to answer, as you know."
George cannot help a quick glance around to see if anyone is listening. "I would not ask this of any other lady, as it would be crass, but you are a dear friend in a way. Miss Melanie... do you believe she would be amenable to my attentions as a suitor?"
Suraksha can't help it either -- she laughs softly, leaning to give George a quick one-armed hug and a peck on the cheek. Her eyes are shining as she straightens, "Oh, George, what a perfectly lovely idea! -and how incredibly sweet of you to feel comfortable enough to turn to me!" She adds in a delighted whisper, "You know, I do believe she considers you both to be quite sweet, and to have your feet firmly planted on the ground, my dear -- which I believe is high praise indeed from her!" Her rippling laugh shows clearly how pleased she is as she adds, "Perhaps you might ask her to dance? I shall have to make sure she's there to attempt catching the bride's bouquet as well!"
George looks flushed and pleased. He clears his throat again and says, "I do not wish to seem fickle, my dear, but I had considered asking Miss Melanie to spend some time with me in town. And, to be frank, I wish to court her. I do not, however, wish to be in your bad graces."
Suraksha smiles, gently cupping George's cheek with her free hand, "Oh, George. You are a treasure -- and Miss Melanie is indeed fortunate." She rises on tiptoes to gently kiss the landlord's flushed cheek before she dimples and adds, "I would ordinarily ask if you wished to extend our contract after today, but I do believe I may be able to find I have pressing business elsewhere!" She pause, thinking, then adds with a grin, "Shall I assume, my dear, that you would prefer not to have caravan escort immediately after the wedding back to your home -- so you may have some time to properly court the lady?"
George smiles, clearing his throat; intentions to court Melanie or not, it is still pleasant to have a lovely woman kiss you. "I intend, of course, to pay you for the original contract. But yes, I believe I will be staying in town for a bit longer if the lady accepts my invitation."
Suraksha beams, "Of course!" and then her eyes twinkle a touch mischievously, "So, will you need someone to carry a message? Or perhaps you might speak with her while dancing?"
George's brows knit again and he asks hesitantly, "Which do you think?"
Suraksha glances around, her face alight with pleasure as she looks for Melanie and Roy. This is exciting news to her for another reason as well: it means she can start the caravan downriver right away! She makes a note to contact Ohkwari and Sna'tha so they know to contract for cargoes heading south. She's still smiling affectionately as she looks back at George, saying simply, "What would a true gentleman do, George dear? That's what you are, after all."
George considers this for a few minutes as they are getting seated at their table. After a moment he says, "I'd say I should speak with His Majesty, since Roy is her escort, which makes him like her guardian in a way... but then I believe I should approach her myself. We have been introduced, after all."
Suraksha thinks a bit, then nods slowly, "That seems reasonable. May I make one suggestion though, dear? Will you allow me to speak to the king first? -while you are having, say, a nice dance with the lady?" She smiles affectionately at her portly companion, "You are a dear friend, after all. I would be delighted if I might somehow assist you in achieving your heart's desire."
George considers that carefully and then says, "Of course, my dear. You seem acquainted with him, after all."
Suraksha beams as she pats George's arm before neatly spreading her napkin in her lap, "Thank you so much!" She sighs happily, adding, "This is so exciting!" before she starts the excellent brunch with everyone else at their table. The food is lovely and the speeches are mostly inoffensive, though they do go on a bit. Once dessert has been served, however, the dancing starts. It's not lively music -- more meant to let the ladies and gentlemen banter with one another and show off their lovely clothes than to show off their dance moves. The bride and groom are the first couple on the floor, followed by their attendants, creating a lovely (if rather obviously staged) scene.
Suraksha laughs softly and admires, her eyes shining as she whispers happily to George: don't they all look simply beautiful? She takes mental notes as well on fashions; those will be useful for later trading. After the wedding party has danced, she'll smile and accept an invitation to dance from George as well, swaying with almost liquid grace in his arms. She glances around for Roy and Melanie as well; she does not wish to ask for a dance with Roy until Melanie has had a chance to enjoy herself first.
Once the guests start to move onto the floor and dance, Roy is amongst the first, squiring Miss Melanie onto the floor with aplomb and grace. He is very correct with her and they're both smiling, obviously enjoying themselves in the dance. Suraksha is relieved to see that, although honestly she'd already trusted Roy to carry through on his promises. As the dance is winding down she whispers a request to George: would he like to end up near his majesty and Miss Melanie, so they might have the next dance together? George agrees this is a lovely idea and, together, they conspire to end up near the other couple as the dance is winding down. Roy seems quite pleased at the coincidence as well.
Suraksha dimples mischievously, patting George's arm and murmuring, "Bright blessings, dear!" just to him. She has to cover a small, fond smile as she watches the staid landlord flush and stammer slightly over the request to dance; his basic, decent honesty means his intentions are fairly plain to read on his face. Only when Melanie has blushed and accepted the invitation does 'Chana glance over at Roy, her quiet smile still glowing with happiness. Roy is doing his best not to smirk as he offers Melanie's hand to George for the dance. Once the two have moved off, he turns to 'Chana and asks, "Since we both seem to have lost our dance partners, may I have the honor?"
Suraksha chuckles and gladly takes his hand. She waits until he's swept her gracefully onto the dance floor -- he can feel her soft sigh as she almost relaxes into his arms -- before she murmurs softly, "Roy dear, may I ask a favor of you, please?" She grins with mischievous delight up at him as she adds, "And in return I have one for you too!"
Roy doesn't waste time getting Suraksha onto the dance floor -- it's almost as if he's afraid someone is going to slip up and steal her out from under him before they can start. He grins down at her and says, "'Course, cherie. What favor y'got fer me?"
Suraksha thinks for a moment, her eyes sparkling as she composes her words -- and, truth be told, simply blisses out in the joy of dancing with a preferred and chosen partner! Finally she murmurs carefully, "When George comes to you in a little bit and asks your permission, as Miss Melanie's current stand-in for family and guardian, for him to court her... please treat it seriously?"
Roy blinks down at her and then his face breaks into a broad and genuine grin, "He's gonna ask permission?"
Suraksha nods happily, her eyes shining with happiness, "Indeed! If she agrees after that, and I think she will, he intends to invite her to spend some time in town immediately after the wedding." She grins, waiting for Roy to add two and two together.
Roy nods to that -- and then the penny drops and his voice lowers to a purr, "Meanin' you don' gotta go off an' play escort an' can come right home wi' me."
Suraksha giggles happily, nodding again, "Indeed!" She grins, amending slightly, "Well, we'll be there in about... three or four months. But it does mean we'll be a few months faster!" She sighs happily, her head starting to lean towards Roy -- then she remembers herself and smiles ruefully, "Goodness. I must be careful. Only a day to go; I should be able to keep my wits about me that long with you." She grins and winks up at Roy, clearly still very pleased.
Roy's purr turns to disappointment, "Months? What else you gotta do?" He does grin at the fact that she seems as hard-pressed to behave properly as he is. He keeps having to move his hands back to the proper dancing positions as they twirl languidly through the waltz.
Suraksha smiles quietly, "Nothing except walk down the riverside to Baton Rouge. Roy dear, it's over 900 miles!" She grins, "Surely you hadn't forgotten that little fact, just because you're on a nice big riverboat?"
Roy smirks, "You thought I was gonna let you go overland all that way?"
Suraksha gives Roy a slightly perplexed look, "Pardon? How else would we go?" She smiles faintly, "Wagons don't float, dear... and hiring boats to shift us would be exorbitantly expensive." She adds dryly, "and if you can make the Big Muddy hard enough to drive a wagon on..." She shivers at how much power that would take, "I don't think I want to know!"
The king grins at her and says, "Hirin' little boats would be. But I gotta barge gonna be comin' back wi' me. Bringin' cattle. Which're gonna be stowed belowdecks."
Suraksha blinks a bit startledly up at Roy, "You do? A barge?" She blinks again, her thoughtful gaze falling to his chest height again as she mentally flicks through possibilities. Finally she says cautiously, "A barge large enough for all the wagons... that must be quite expensive. How much are you asking for us to ride?"
Roy looks amusedly down at the top of her head and says, "Yer thinkin' I'm gonna charge ya?"
Suraksha looks up startledly at Roy, surprise in her voice, "You weren't planning on...?" Her voice trails off as she thinks a bit... then she says seriously, "We need to talk about this later, sweet man, all right? I want to know your expectations, and to share mine with you." She hesitates, then adds with a small, shy grin, "I, um... I've never been courted before, so I... am not exactly sure how it should go?" She adds amusedly half under her breath, "Must talk to godsmama too... the finagler!"
Roy's eyes are sparkling a bit, "Hell, I'm hirin' yer godmomma -- and I'm damned impatient. Ain't no reason t' make yer folk trudge all that way." After a moment he says, "An' I can, actually, when I got my sceptre."
Suraksha laughs softly, gently poking Roy's shoulder, "Not asking, dear! You'd better have left that thing someplace very, very safe too, or Sna'tha will be making your life difficult." She grins wickedly up at him, adding, "Impatient, eh? I'm going to guess Sna'tha will be able to keep you a bit busy!"
Roy leans his head down just enough to murmur, "Was hopin' I'd be busy with you, actually, cherie..." His hand slides up along her back to rest on bare skin for a moment, thumb brushing the line of her spine before he moves it back down to proper placement.
Suraksha's eyes look almost sleepily sensual for a moment, and her full lips curve up slowly at the corners. She sighs with pleasure, then murmurs, "Mmm, we'll see what we can do. Maybe one of the nights, at least..."
Roy's own smile is the lazily happy smile of a man who knows just exactly what he wants and has it right in his arms. "One? It'll take several t'get home. I was hopin' we'd have a l'il bitta time t' ourselves." The dance comes to an end and Melanie is beaming as she and George make their way back over to the other couple. George asks Roy very seriously if they can speak privately. The king of Baton Rouge works very hard to seem serious, but not overly so; he knows he'll seem to be mocking the landlord if he puts too much gravity in his demeanor.
Suraksha beams fondly after the two men, then takes Melanie's hands and giggles like a schoolgirl with her! Melanie confides that George was making hints that he would be quite happy to continue providing Melanie with accommodation if she didn't wish to return to Baton Rouge with Roy. Across the room the two gentlemen make an odd-looking pair, but Roy is doing a good job of seeming to consider George's request very seriously. Eventually he nods and says something which makes George grin in obvious relief and the pair shake hands before coming back over to the ladies.
Suraksha gives Melanie a quick, happy hug when the two men are shaking hands, whispering delightedly to her, "Oh, wonderful! Melanie, dear, I hope you have a simply delightful time with dear George -- he is a treasure!" Both women are, of course, looking decorous and sipping tea at the little table together, murmuring demurely about local fashion when the men return. 'Chana looks up at them and smiles sunnily, "Good afternoon, gentlemen! Isn't it a glorious day?"
Roy is doing his best not to chuckle and it shows in his eyes. George, on the other hand, is nervously serious as he says, "It is a wonderfully glorious day, my dear. May I perhaps have a moment alone with Miss Melanie?" After Roy and 'Chana have moved away, there's an adorable tableau with Melanie looking demurely pleased and George doing his stolid and well-meaning best to be charming. Melanie's answer clearly pleases him and he seizes both of her hands, kissing them in a way that's quite fervent for him.
Suraksha awwws fondly as she watches from a polite distance with Roy. She glances up at his face, her eyes shining with happiness, but says only, "The gossip sheets are going to love this tomorrow!" She covers a giggle, still beaming, then grins up at Roy again, adding hopefully, "Ask me for a dance, please?"
Roy grins down at her, resisting the urge to put his arm around her shoulders, "Why, Miz Sulochana, could I impose upon you for another dance?"
Suraksha has had others come up and request dances of her, and she knows there will be a deliciously satisfying amount of dancing on-going for the rest of the evening. It occurs to her, however, that she would not mind at all even if only Roy were to ask her for the rest of those dances! She wonders a bit amusedly, though: what does Roy consider courtship to be?! She giggles mischievously and murmurs, "Gracious, your majesty, hardly an imposition!" as she lays her hand lightly into his, then sighs happily again as he puts an arm about her waist. She is going to have a ton of work to do to whip the caravan into shape practically overnight for this trip downriver -- and have the talk with Roy -- but for now she feels quite perfectly happy here in Roy's arms.
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