RegacyChapter 5.2 - In Stasis

8/7/2019 RegacyChapter 5.2 - In Stasis

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Ohoh, myPlumbob.

Perhaps this wasnt the best

Oh, myPlumbob.

Robert sighed. Marian


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Oh, myPlumbob.

You realize youve said that three times?


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Oh, myPLUMBOB.


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As peaceful as they looked, snoozing in the room with an alarming disregard for propriety, the snores indicated that the culprits were sleeping as if

they had been workingvigorouslyhard the night before.

Marian squeaked as she realized that is probably exactly what had happened. As much as she wanted to look away (and she really, reallywanted to

look away) it was proving to be a physical impossibility.

Wanting to be anywhere else but in front of those glass doors, Robert seized his sisters hand and started to pull. Come along, he whimpered.

Robert shook his head, hard, as if he were trying to throw the memory from his mind. I told


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With one last horrified blink into the bedchamber as she lumbered behind Robert toward the door, Marian very nearly snarled. If you complete

that statement with the words you and so I swear to all that walks this world that I shall end your lovely existence, she said in the menacinglysweet way only she could.


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Right. Ah, anyway... the good news, I suppose, is that theyve sorted themselves out now. They have all been dancing about this ridiculous mess

for years upon years. Perhaps finally we can pass a meal without Mama staring longingly into your mothers eyes, oroh no! It will probably be worsenow! Hed lost a bit of the green color in his face momentarily but now it was back, and with interest.


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Isabella is not to be informed, Marian decided quickly

Certainly not! Can you imagine? Robert shuddered

If she knew she would lose what is left of that mind of hers, and somehow, of course, it will be my fault.


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What will be your fault, dearest sister? Aside from mostthings, that is, Isabella wondered aloud as she appeared suddenly coming out of Franks

rooms.


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Just as quickly as shed decided not to tell her sister what was going on, Marian decided that she would. Indirectly, as was her way.

Oh! she sighed dramatically. I spilled ink on that fabric you wanted Alice to make up into a gown for you. I am so sorry, dear sister! I know not

what came over me, but my hand just slipped!

Marian Robert cautioned. He was absolutely certain that Marian was lying. After all, the fabric in question was in his own room lying atop an

old suit of his, waiting to see if there would be enough of it to fashion into a waistcoat.


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You you WHAT?

Oh, Bella, I am so sorry!Marian continued, kicking her brother stealthily.

Where is it, you horrible cow?!


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Bella

Quiet, Robert. It is in Alices room. Hr bedchamber, specifically. She was seeing if it was salvageable.

Ill have you punished for this! Just you wait, Marian! Isabella shouted as she shoved her sister aside and stalked off to her mothers room.


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Robert crossed his arms, fighting a smile, and turned around slowly to face Marian. Youre a bad person, he said, deadpan.

Before Marian could respond, Isabellas scream shot through the hallway and into the rest of the house at an impressive volume, even for Isabella.


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Marian smiled widely as she leaned against the balustrade. Oh, I know I am.

-----


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Many things had changed at Austen Park since Lark and Marian had moved in so long ago. The most recent change had been the hiring of several

servants; with so many people under her roof, Alice could no longer keep up with the running of the country estate, and so Frankbroke his familystradition of servant-less life to ease his wifes mind.

The Austens now employed six servants: Daisy, Mr. Deppiesse, Mr. Awon, Mrs. Langerak, Mrs. Jameson, & Charles.


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Originally, Isabella and Marian shared a room. However, the fights that ensued from that situation were so bad that the first change Frank was

intent on making was finding Marian a room of her own. It had once been Charlottes and was therefore not terribly large, but Marian and her aunt

Charlotte were rather alike in their taste for simple elegance, not narcissistic affluence as Charlotte liked to call it.


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Other additions included rooms for John and for Henry, William, and Lucas, as well as suites for Robert and Lark.


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One of the more exciting things about the remodel was that Alice was given her own games parlor which had been Larks idea. Alice was extremelygrateful, and now spends most of her time in there.

Other places were expanded, such as the library which is now two floors, the ballroom, Franks study, Roberts art room, and the hot house.


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The reasons for Franks remodel had been somewhat varied.

Of course he said it was merely to keep up with the current trends and fashions, but that was a ruse. Really, he wished to focus on them in the

interest of distracting himself from the fact that his wife could no longer bear children, and could therefore no longer visit his bed.

Once Alice convinced him to take Lark as a mistress Frank calmed down. For about half an hour, that is. As soon as Lark and her daughter moved

into the manor, Frank learned that Lark was expecting another child.


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This development sent Frank into further hysterics, and the state of his mind was not helped by the terrible recurring nightmares he was having.


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The worst nightmare, in Franks mind, involved him being rather pregnant. He always woke up when the labor pains started, though.


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The one time Frank decided to share this dream with Lark was the last as she was the farthest thing from amused. The one about his pregnancy,

however, had both she and Alice crying with laughter.


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The night she gave birth Lark had been in her room near the kitchen speaking to Frank, or rather arguing over a name for their baby, when the pains

hit. Alice and Marian were called for, and Frank was kicked out. Before anyone was ready, there were two new Austens in the world, and they were

both little boys.


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Lark and Frank had even more to argue about at that point. They agreed on Lucas for the older son, but Frank was insistent on William, after his

father, for the younger. Naturally, Lark despised the idea. She wanted something like Shion or some other name Frank did not understand, but Frank

refused, insisting that it was only right to name one of his sons for his father, to which Lark responded that no son of hers would be named for a

famed philanderer and thus the Great Name War was begun. Alice eventually stepped in and suggested they name the child Two. Odd as it was

there did not appear to be another option and so for the first few days of their lives, the twins were called Lucas and Two. Eventually, Lark agreed to

William on the condition that he be referred to as Liam. Luke and Liam, she said, had a nice ring to it. While the rest of the family bickered over

William being called Wills or Liam, Alice chose to stay neutral and continues to call him Two, affectionately of course, to this day.


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The boys grew quickly. Lucas was soon discovered to be quite the daredevil, always escaping out of his bed, running about the house, and climbing

everythingthe moment he knew how to walk. William was a direct contrast to his twin and appeared to be a very quiet baby,. His favorite things to dowere to sleep and draw.


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As his sons grew, Frank returned to a somewhat normal state of mind and was optimistic that neither of his nightmares would ever come true. He

continued to work on the house and time passed peacefully. As peacefully as it could with the constant noise of the remodeling and the ceaselessbickering of Marian and Isabella, that is.


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Amongst the physical changes of Austen Park were the changes in the Austen children. Now, all traces of swaddling clothes and nursery rhymes

have evaporated and are replaced with books, gowns, tea, and nonsense.


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John?

John, a book, and a very-sadly-empty cup of tea were found in the library by Marian a quarter of an hour later. John grunted softly to acknowledge

his sisters presence, but did not look up as she crossed the large room.


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John, what in the world are you doing? This is your party, should not you spend time with your guests and well-wishers? Isabella is absolutely

appalled. Not, she added, that that is particularly uncommon.

I-I they, well, everyone was CROWDING me.

Erwho was crowding you?


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"Erm, it-it-it was Miss Legacy. And Miss Simself, the one without the glasses. AND Miss Smith!"

Marian laughed. "Oh, have you found a paramour already little brother?"

What? Wh-what? Are you quite mad? No! Absolutely that is no!

"Oh, come now. They are just so happy to see you so grown up, and so very handsome."

Handsome?" he scoffed. "Hardly.


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"First, take a look at great-great-grandpapa's portrait and then in the mirror. Second, you have red hair." Marian twirled a lock of her own. "That

automaticallymakes you handsome.

Red hair isnt as lovely on men as it is women. On you it looks exotic, exciting; onus it merely makes us look like, I dont know but strange and not at all fetching.

Ergoyou are full of nonsense. Butbut thank you.

Must you rationalize everything like that?


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I think so, yes, John acknowledged with a wide grin he tried unsuccessfully to hide. He laughed and suddenly felt a little bit better, but of

course he soon turned pink again. "I cannot go back in there, Marian.


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"Well! We do not have to. We can sit and read, if you like. The book papa ordered for me from Simparis arrived yestermorning. Would you like to

see it? It is in Simfreeeeench, and I know how much you like!

"Oh, excellent! Where is it?


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Robert sat crankily at the party for quite some time before he finally decided he had had rather enough and went to find John. He simply would not

be subjected to the fawning of tittering ladies if his brother did not have to be.


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No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace as I have seen in one autumnal face. Humph.

What are you doing? Robert had looked high and low for his brother and there he was, seated with Marian , rather happily, in the corner of the

upper library.


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Marian smirked. I am currently attempting to teach young John here a bit about poetry, she said. John shook his head slowly.

Robert looked at John quizzically, and John instantly turned as red as his hair for no immediately apparent reason. Indeed? Robert asked. My

dear John, I had no idea you were at all interested in poetry!


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John frowned, scarlet in the face; it gave him the look of a rather distressed peach.

I do not, and I'll thank YOU to not throw such hideous accusations at me. Poetry, whatever our sister may say, is HORRID. Poets are so so

so blasted pretentious. Oh, that flower in mine eye reflects the inner beauty of thine soul or some such nonsense, I do not even


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That was a terrible poem, John, Marian chided, teasing.


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Yes, yes, well! So are they all! What is this one meant to mean anyway? Autumnal face? Bah. What, has the young ladygot dead leaves for

eyebrows?


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Robert bit back a laugh but Marian giggled loudly. Yes, of course! she agreed. And acorns, for eyes?

John nodded gravely. Straw, for hair.

Oh! We must not forget: apple cheeks!"


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Robert stared at his siblings, amused. You are both utterly ridiculous. You are aware of this?

Yes! Marian cried. Thank you!

John rolled his eyes.

Come now, you can tell me what she has for lips and toes as we go back to the guests. Mama and Papa and Lark will probablywonder where we

are. Robert smirked as his brother's face twisted into his practiced expression of martyrdom.


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John sighed loudly and stood. "Let us go back. It has to be better than poetry, anyway, he mumbled to Robert as they headed to the door.

"John! I will thank you not to disparage my glorious book.

"I hate to say anything negative about a book, John said, louder. It is most true that I am very much grieved indeed to say something unpleasant

about a book, but poetry and Simfrench romantic poetry at that, oh good heavens. I should sooner like to spend an entire afternoon watching our

parents do... whatever it is they do.

-----


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Unlike John, when it came time for Isabella and Henry to reach their teen years they were more than happy to have attention. Henry was possibly

the opposite of his brother John and absolutely adored female attention, though perhaps a little too much. Isabella just loved any occasion where she

was the center of attention, even if she had to share it with her twin. The party was, as all things involving Isabella were, quite grand, and most of

Simshire was invited.


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If it had been up to Isabella, however, her sister Marian would have been kept from the festivities.

It was no secret that Isabella did not often get along with her sister. To Isabella, Marian was prettier, had nicer things, and was a terrible person,

considering her horridly low birth. There was something deeper there, of course, but Isabella tried to focus on the fact that Marian was a bastard.

Because Isabella was so jealous of her sister, she always had to have more than Marian, and she hated it when any attention meant for her was spent

on Marian.

Because Marian was not really a bad person, she didnt care. The fact that her baby sister disliked her was irritating, but nothing more. She still

loved her sister, deep, deep down, and she didnt let it get to her.

Much.


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The one thing Marian had which Isabella had no hope of getting was a cat named Mr. Fluffy Sour Puss. Shed had him since she was two years old

and he was getting on in years, but he was a lovely cat, and Isabella was, naturally, jealous. She tried to sway Mr. Fluffy Sour Pusss affections toward

herself, but to no avail; the cranky white puff ball was staunchly loyal to Marian, to Lark, and to absolutely nobody else.


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Isabella begged her parents for a puppy all throughout her childhood and, finally, on this particular birthday Alice and Frank conceded.

They adopted one of the Blackthorne familys famous greyhounds for her, and Isabella was ecstatic. The puppy was named MayAmelia Rose

Isabella Aurora Noelle, or M.A.R.I.A.N.

Marian had not been very amused that Isabella had named a bitch after her, but she lived through the insult andthe birthday party. She tried very

hard to always remind herself that at least she had Mr. Fluffy Sour Puss.

Most of the time.


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The cat had a nasty habit of getting lost and when Marian and her mother had made the move to the great house it was as if hed gone missing

forever. However, the very next day the cat was returned to them, and Tristan, the son the infamous Garrett Surilie, was the one to bring him back.

Since that time, Mr. Fluffy Sour Puss had escaped three more times, and each time he was returned by Tristan. It had gotten to the point that every

time Mr. Fluffy Sour Puss ran off, she knew it was only a matter of time before one of the servants brought the cat to her and explained that, Master

Surilie left this here for you, miss.

Hed gone missing again right around the time Isabellas puppy May arrived.


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Just a day after Isabella & Henrys party Marian heard a proud knock at the door and assumed it was Tristan bringing her ca t home for the fifth time.

Too lazy to make her way to greet the young man herself, especially because the young man seemed to think himself very attractive which annoyed her

to no end, Marian settled into her chair and waited.


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Robert was lounging in the drawing room when he heard the knocking at the front door. He waited for Charles to answer it, but it seemed the

servants were off doing whatever it was that servants did.

Annoyed at the knocking, Robert heaved himself to his feet and went to answer the door for what was definitely the first time in his life.


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When he did, he saw a very handsome young man with black hair and piercing blue eyes. Roberts heart fluttered at the appearance of this young

man, and at first he could think of nothing to say.


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And then Mr. Fluffy Sour Puss jumped, rather impressively, into Roberts face.

AUGH!


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Pleased with himself as usual, the cat trotted off into the house and Robert was left standing with the young man at the front stairs.

Blasted cat.


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Yes, I erm well I found him in the kitchen. Again. Also again, he was using the ground wheat in the mortar as a chamber pot. So as I am the

one who had to clean it, I agree with your assessment of blasted cat.


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Roberts face broke into an unwilling grin. Ah. Yes. Ofcoursemy sister would be most put out if she knew we were speaking of her beloved

cat in that way.


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Well I suppose we just ought not to tell her, Tristan said conspiratorially.

His voice was wonderful, Robert noticed. It was slightly gruff and had a hint of the accent Robert had often heard near the docks of the

Simthames, but it was terribly pleasing. He felt goose bumps rise all over his skin as Tristan smiled widely, revealing shockingly white teeth.


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They stood there for a moment, saying nothing. Robert thought furiously over something to talk about but could only come up with, Youre the

son of the Surilie man, arent you? You are the one who brings the cat back all the time.


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Tristan Mortimer Surilie, son of Garrett Matthew Smith Surilie, Cat-capturer extraordinaire, at your service, my good sir, Tristan explained with a

grand bow. It was not until he stood straight up again that Robert realized he was making a mockery of things.


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Robert raised an eyebrow at this obvious lack of respect. Usually he was a very serious gentleman and obsessed with propriety, but Tristan had this

way about him that made him feel free or something like that.

Ah I am Robert Austen, son

Yes, I know who you are.

Oh. Of course, you would, Robert said pompously. Tristan rolled his eyes, and luckily Robert missed it. So, Mr. Surilie, do you play chess?


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Tristan thought quickly. He hesitated only slightly and replied, Ive actually never played. Not much for things like that, myself.

Oh! Well, it is vastly enjoyable. How would you like to come in? I could, er, teach you?

Both of them ignored the fact that it was quite, quite improper for the squires son to invite the cottage caretakers son in to play a rousing game of

chess; Tristan beamed and nodded vigorously.


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Weve a board in the drawing room, Robert explained as he led the way through the entrance hall.

Tristan snorted. Ive always wondered what it looked like in here. I always thought it would be really frivolous, but its not so bad.


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Robert looked affronted, and he was. I begyour pardon!


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Wearing a confident grin, Tristan backpedaled. Oh come now I mean no disrespect. He paused. Ah, well perhaps I do. Come; let me beat you

at chess.


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Youve never played!

There is a first time for everything, is there not now Mr. Austen? Tristan said ridiculously just as he and Robert disappeared into the drawing

room.


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Isabella processed that, and finally found a way to turn it around on Marian. Plopping May unceremoniously on the floor and standing to face her

sister, she said with a huff, Yes, well, I never have understood her judgment. She lets you and your mother live here, after all.


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Marian groaned. But mama she really IS a!

That may be so, but it is unkind and does not help her think better of us.

Marian glared at her mother, but eventually gave in. Yes mama.


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What are you doing standing here, anyway Marian? Lark asked. She felt something tugging at her gown impatiently and squealed. OH! You are

back! Where have you been, you rotten cat? Back at the cottage, eh?


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Marian shuddered and knelt down to scratch behind the cats ears. My mother scares me, she whined.

Shed had her suspicions even then as to what her parents were up to, but not until the morning she and Robert found them intertwined that horridmorning years later were those suspicions confirmed. Thoroughly, thoroughly confirmed.


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A little while later, most of the Austens had come up with the same idea: to spend time in the drawing room, which of course meant to watch

Robert play a game of chess with Tristan Surilie.

I do not understand it, mama, Henry whispered rather loudly. He has not said one unkind thing to him this past hour.

I think our brother is broken! Lucas observed cheerfully.


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Alice smiled at them all. Oh, come now, children. Robert can make friends too.


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Tristan glanced over at the Austens, raising an eyebrow. Your familyisaware we can hear them?


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Most definitely. I highly doubt they care, however.

Clearly not! Are youare you truly never kind to anyone?

Nonsense. I am extraordinarily kind to everyone all the time, Robert said, expressionless.


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Tristans eyebrow rose higher still. Really.

Not at all, Robert admitted with a smirk.

So I must just be special then!


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Tristan laughed and moved his piece. Surveying the board proudly he said, Checkmate, mate!


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Checkmate?! But IyouweIyou learned to play just... it was not even an hour ago!


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Yes, ahI mayhave fibbed about that.

You didnt!

Ohhh, but I did. Sorry about that. Hugemisunderstanding.


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Robert stared at Tristan. He could not fathom how this young mans brain worked or why he but, for whatever reason, he was dying to know..

In fact, he was dying to know everything about him, but first he would call him out.

So really, you cheated.

I did no such thing!

I think you did.


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Should westep in, perhaps? John wondered. Robert cannot tolerate cheating. At all.


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Especiallywhen he isnt the one doing it, Marian added.


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John nodded, still trying to listen in on Roberts conversation, but Isabella was the one who spoke next.

Do not be silly! Robert is making a friend who is not Marian. It is groundbreaking activity, do you not agree?


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Alice clucked at her daughter. Oh Bella, really. Robert has friends!

Like whom? Story? Bleu? That girl with the shockinglymulti-coloured hair? They are just as mad as Uncle OLeery.

Isabella


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Isabella huffed and stood up. I should go work on that embroidery I started this morning.

Marian laughed but did not turn her eyes away from the duo at the chessboard. You know for someone who loves her embroidery silks andneedles more than actual people it isnt exactly appropriate for you to call Robert out on his lack of friends.


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Isabella froze. Slowly, she turned to look straight at Marian. At least my mother isnt a


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Tristans and Roberts heads snapped around to look at the assembled Austens. Marian and Isabella were staring each other down, and it was quite,

quite clear that something physical was imminent.


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A what? A WHAT? Marian was in Isabellas face, her cheeks matching her fiery red hair exactly.

Nothing. She is nothing. With that, Isabella shot a glare at her mother and ran from the room, slamming the door behind her.


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Whycan you not everadmit that Bella is a horrible little demon? Marian screeched, completely forgettingor not caringthat Tristan was still in the

room.

I


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Tristan blinked at the Austens. What IS going on over there?

Robert quickly explained what he knew about his parents and their history. He wasnt sure why he did it as he hardly knewthis young man, but thewords flowed easily.


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Your parents are really? And it does not bother your mother?


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Robert shot a wry, sideways glance at his family and stretched. Welcome to Austen Park, my good sir.

Tristan chuckled. I think I will like knowing you all.


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Since that day, Tristan and Robert were the best of friends.

Tristan was often round for tea at Austen Park, and he quickly became close with the rest of the family as well. He was so much a part of the family

that Frank offered once to try and sort out a way for Tristan to attend Pemberley University with his sons. Surprisingly, Tristan politely refused. He

explained that hed had plans to join the Navy and go to war, and this impressed Frank greatly.

Robert, however, had not been at all pleased to hear of that development, and spent a lot of his time trying to convince Tristan to change it.


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Marian was the only person to know just how much Tristans rejection hurt him, and why.

-----


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When is everyone meant to arrive? Isabella asked. I must say we havebeen waiting an awfully long time.

Nonsense, Bella. Nobody is meant to be here for another quarter of an hour, Marian explained.

Robert, did you hear something? It was almost as if some horrid wind

Dont be childish, Bella, Robert chided. Isabella promptly rolled her eyes. She hadnt been particularly amused when shed found her parents in a

disgraceful position an hour before but was now pretending it was all a bad dream. A very, verybad dream.

Marian and Robert had managed to get the young twins clean and dressed, and after attempting to block out the memory of her parents rear ends

Isabella had found her beloved fabric unscathed. John and Henry only presented themselves after the screaming had stopped, and now all seven of the

Austen children were occupying themselves in the drawing room until tea.


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Lucas jumped up and ran to the window with his twin. It is the Haggerty carriage! he shouted, leaping onto the chair. It teetered dangerously, but

somehow stayed upright.

Lady Emma is here!!! William echoed, beaming. He rather fancied Lady Emma; she was pretty and kind, but more importantly to the little

bookworm: she gave him books.


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Robert frowned. So much for being fashionably late.

Oh, Robert, Marian laughed. Robert had only met Lady Emma a handful of times, and each time she had behaved perfectly. Marian, however,was one of Emma Binghams closest friends, and sheknew just how little Emma liked to do anythingthe normal way.


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Alice, Marian, and Isabella arrived at the Haggerty familys home at Martin Hall promptly at two o clock in the afternoon one Thursday. They were

calling on Mrs. Haggerty, the newMrs. Haggerty, and Lady Emma Bingham. It would be the first time the Austen ladies would be meeting Lady Emma,

and the first time for the younger girls to be properly introduced to Lucy Munster as Mrs. Haggerty.

Naturally, the entire way over, Marian and Isabella bickered over some bonnet theyd seen in town, and whether Frank would purchase it for one of

them or for the other. Alice said perhaps it would be best if it was not given to either of them and, using her best, most unused Mother voice, she told

them that she would have the carriage take them straight home while she visited with the Haggertys alone, should the young Austen girls not be able to

control themselves.

Luckily, the ride was extremely short. Had it not been raining the girls would have simply walked for Martin Hall was not even an entire mile

outside of Austen Parks boundaries.


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Behave, Alice commanded her girls as they were shown into the Haggertys drawing room. Sitting about the fire were Georgiana, Lucy, and

Kitty! Forgive me, Mrs. Legacina it is quite a shock to see you here, Marian exclaimed. She couldnt help but smile, though she knew shedspoken out of turn. Since learning of Kittys connection to the family, Marian and Mrs. Legacina had grown quite close due tovaguely similar

circumstances.


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Kitty nodded and smiled. Yes, my mother and I have been spending much time together of late. She has been most kind to my husband and me.


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After the Austen ladies were seated, Isabella realized something off. Aunt, where is Lady Emma? We were expecting to meet her here.


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Oh! Oh, she has gone up to Austen Cottage to take Georgiana paused. She swallowed once before trying to get the words out again. She

has gone up to Austen Cottage to take Mr. SurGarrwell, the man there, and his boy, some fresh pies. She has taken up the oddest friendship with

the boy there.

Nobody missed it when Kitty smiled at the mention of Garrett and Tristan Surilie.

Oh, how very disappointing, Isabella moaned.

She should be returning at any moment. My son is under strict instructions to have her brought back quickly.


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Ah. And speaking of George Mrs. Haggerty, how do your children do? We heard the birth was entirely normal and smoothly run.

Lucy raised an eyebrow. You could say that, I suppose. In reality, Lucy had spent an extraordinarily long time in labor with her twins, but thatof course was not appropriate to speak of in polite company. That, and she was dead tired from being up with her twins all night. Grace and Gordy

are quite healthy. They are eating and sleeping the usual amount, as my mama-in-law tells me, and they are growing like littleweeds, Lucy explained as

politely as possible. She desired a strong cup of tea, or better yet: a large glass of wine.

Alice was oblivious and happy as ever. How wonderful!


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Just then, the door to the parlor opened and a mud-and-rain-soaked Lady Emma Bingham stumbled in

Oh! Sorry, tripped on thewell Im sure I tripped over something, not my own two feet! Er, how do you do? She said all of this very fast andwith an enigmatic grin on her face.


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Marian raised two thin red eyebrows, but it was nothing compared to Isabellas grimace.


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Please dont get up on my account, Emma joked, more surprised than affronted that none of the ladies had gone so far as to nod to her.


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Isabella turned to her sister and whispered, Are we supposed to curtsey to her?

Im not actually certain. Alice is not?

Yes but Mama seems to be utterly thunderstruck.

Yesbut look at Lady Emma.

Completely covered in mud.


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Erm. Sorry, Ill just go and clean up, hmm? Emma said awkwardly.

Georgiana had made her way to standing by about half then plopped back down in her seat as Emma turned on her heel and ran up the stairs to herroom.


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Nobody said a word for a moment. Alice, finally, thought of something to say. Shes a lovely girl. Good heavens, hergown!


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Oh, yes! Marian agreed. Very beautiful complexion. ORDr. Muds Facial Elixir


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Isabella nodded stiffly. Marian kicked her. She has hair. It looks well indeed. Very shiny. Essence of Rain, no doubt.


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Georgiana laughed at them all. Do not worry; Emma will think nothing of being covered in mud before the wife of my brother and his children.

Shes a bit of a free spirit, and endlessly curious. If I take a guess, I dare say she challenged my son to some sort of mud fight.


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George Haggerty the Second came in right on cue. He bowed to his mother, and winced as he saw a glop of mud drop from his hair to the shining

floorboards.

Apologies, Mama. Lady Emma was inclined to play.

~


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Oh! We ought to fetch Mama and Papa! Marian realized as she heard the Haggertys and Lady Emma coming up the front steps. Gluing on her

most angelic face she asked, Wouldyoulike to fetch them, dear?

There is something very, very wrong with you.

Isnt it marvelous? Marian preened.

Isabella obliged Marian with one of her best glares before instructing William and Lucas to go find their parents, hoping to Plumbob that the

Austens and Lark had finally reorganizedthemselves.

~


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The Haggertys and Lady Emma were not the only guests invited that day. The Legacinas had come as well, in addition to Vaughn and Apolline

Fitzhugh along with Mrs. Fitzhughs brother and sister, Bleu and Story OLeery.


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Every time Story visited, Robert noted, she looked odder and odder. The first time she came home shed donned a mans coat and trousers as well

as her fathers best hat. The second, shed sheared off all her long, pretty brown hair. That was not so strange, Robert supposed, as her elder sister

Apolline had done the same with her hair, but it had been a shock. This time, the most shocking thing of all was that she looked almostnormal.

How can you walk around like that, Story?

Funny how you ask me that now, Robert. Now, when my sister has forced me into this unimaginable disgrace of a frock, and notwhen I waltzed

around like a gentleman.

Yes, I suppose it is odd, at that. Andand I dont think its disgraceful at all! Perhaps slightly plain, but a good sash couldstop laughing at me

right now.


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Sorry, Story snorted.

No, youre not.

Story winked at him. You have me there, dearest.

You knowI never didmanage to work out how you could walk around in these either, he said, gesturing vaguely at himself. In a coat, and

trousers

Oh, much easier, I think. Petticoats are SO inconvenient.

Robert laughed. Yes, I know.


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Story raised an eyebrow at him. I knowyou know.


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Robert blushed. Nonsense! No, I mean Erm, Bella and Marian complain about it ALL the time. Yes, that is what I meant. Robert and Story had sworn

each other to secrecy about the one afternoon theyd traded clothes.


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Anywayhow do you find Simdon? Ive not been.

Oh it is wonderful! There is a young lady at M. Bennets who is making my time even more enjoyable, she said with a leer. Story always did that, said things toshock people. The fact that she was hinting at an intimate relationship with anyone, let alone a woman, would have been wicked, but the woman part

just made it all the more fun for Miss OLeery.


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You will be going tomorrow, will you not Robert?

No not tomorrow, the next day.

Why the delay?

I was sort of hoping to have Marian change her mind. I know, deep down, she would really like to go to M. Bennets, but for whatever reason, she

will not.

Should I speak to her?

No. No I do not think that will help at all.


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Story glanced around and spotted her brother heading, in a very purposeful way, toward Marian.

Maybe Bleu will help change her mind.


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Robert sighed and picked at the blanket. I seriously doubt that. Since hes the entire reason shes stayinghere. Women

~


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Marian! called her favorite voice in the world. She looked up, and saw Bleu OLeery walking her way.

How do you do? he asked as he met her. He bowed, she lowered her head.

Very well thank you. I was looking for my mothMiss Lark.

Really Marian, you do not have to call her Miss Lark before me. Plumbob knows Iknow who she is.


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Right, sorry. I get nervous sometimes, like theres someone following me all the time, ready to point at me and say AHA! Youre a bastard.


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Bleu laughed in such a contagious way, Marian noted. No matter how upset she was, if he was laughing, she had to smile.

Nobody will say such things about you when I am around, trust me. I wouldnt allow it. And anyway, theyd be more likely, were we together, topoint at me and say AHA! Youre the crazy OLeerys son.

Marian frowned. Your parents are not crazy!

Not in the least! Bleu admitted with a grin. Butwhen you have an eccentric father who happens to be Simerican, well people tend to get a

littlebit carried away.

Yes! Cant trust those savages across the pond, can we?


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Never!

Oh, but I like Uncle OLeery! He is so, erm how are they handling the, ah, transition?

Oh, tolerably well I say. Mama still prefers to eat and drink the usual things, though of course she craves the other things often. You should have seen my sisters face

when she came for tea yesterday! My mother has taken to using an alternative to cream in her tea.

Marian suppressed a shudder. Blood?


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Yes! I find it quite amusing, but oh... my sister actually fainted!

Which sister was this?

Oh, Apolline, of course! Can you imagine Story fainting? Ever? I think shes never been afraid of anything.

Mm. It is only that they are both out of the house now, so I was not certain.

Bleu nodded, and then something dawned on him. And soon you will be away as well! Are you not set to go to M. Bennets soon? That is what I

had heard, at least.


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Marian winced. No, I. well I have chosen to remain at home. I do not think school is for me? Marian ended on a question for she was not at

all certain whether or not Bleu would think her choice wise or stupid.


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He nodded again. Excellent! School is positively dreadful, horridly boring, even if it is located in Simdon. I cannot imagine what prompted my

sisters to go in the first place.


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Marians heart skipped a beat. Really, you think so?


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But of course. Anyway, what would a beautiful young lady such as you hope to gain from school? Im sure you have everything you need.


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Marian recovered quickly. Not at all! I mean, well it is positively familiar of you to say such a thing, but I certainly do not mind it I mean,

ah how are your lady-friends doing of late? she deflected.


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Bleu groaned quietly. I well, I imagine theyre well. What haveyou heard?

You forget your sister Story is my brothers dearest friend. Also that your sister Story loves nothing more than a shocking thing to say.

Bleu laughed uncomfortably. No I do not forget at all, I simply well for whatever reason I am not at all pleased to knowthat you are aware of

my actions at school. I am, to put it bluntly, rather embarrassed and ashamed of myself.


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And you know not why this is? Marian asked

No.

In return for your honesty I, too, will admit something.


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Bleu swallowed. What is that?


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Marian raised an eyebrow. I do not like hearing of your exploits, though of course I am my fathers daughter. I understand how mens minds

work.


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Bleu smiled at this. Oh, do you? He took a step closer to Marian and took her hand. Why do you not elaborate? Tell me, Marian Austen, he

murmured, how does my mind work?


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She didnt miss a beat. Oh, I thinkyouthink yourself quite handsome.

Ha! Do I? And? Am I not handsome?Bleu preened.

That is neither here nor there, Marian blushed. You find yourself extremely attractive and think you can woo any lady you choose. So far,

indeed, it seems that you have been successful.

Bleu looked away dramatically and sighed. Yes, my charms do seem to get me rather far.

It does not surprise me, sir, but should you ever have cause to think that I am some weak ninny to fall for easy romanticwords and a flower or two,

you would be very, very mistaken.


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Marian, I would never insult you as to think you so easily swayed!

Good.

You deserve far better than what Iam now, anyway. I should not waste my time. I should sooner woo the sun, for you are far more radiant than

she, and she may look down on me and see happiness.

Marian snorted indelicately. What in the name of heaven does that even mean? Really! Does that work on other ladies?


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Yes, actually, comparing the young lady to the sun, or the moon, seems to bring absolute success.


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Marian burst out laughing. Did I not just say that would not work on me?

Wait! Wait; allow me to try my smoldering technique.

Smolderingtechnique? Really. And just what does this smoldering technique entail?


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Bleu turned around and took a deep breath. When he turned again, his face wore an expression that he clearly felt read smolder


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Marian peered at him. Then she doubled over giggling madly. You needhahahahaa mirror!

What! Marian! Dont laugh at me, if you please, that was very serious!

Im so sorry, it is justahaha haha hahahaI cannot countenance it, it was so silly!

Thank you, madam, for throwing my pride down and dancing on it. Youve hurt mymanly feelings.

Oh, any time!


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Bleu smiled, though it was a product of frustration and affection. You are a very interesting girl.

Of course I am. And you should not forget this. Or forgetme


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A quicker bow was never bowed as Bleu stalked off to find Frank.

Good day, Mr. OLeery, Marian mumbled to his back.


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~


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When the time came to eat, Kitty was seated next to her mother. On the one hand she was distressed for it was sure to be awkward, but on the

other it would give her the opportunity to speak to her without everyone overhearing.

You look lovely this evening, dear, Georgiana said kindly.

Thank you mama.


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Georgianas eyes still lit up at the word, especially when Kitty said it; shed heard it from Georgie for over 20 years but had missed it from Kitty for

far more than that. It is nothing but the truth. Now tell me, how do you like the cottage so far?

Kitty straightened her cutlery as she thought. I like it well. It is small, but very beautiful. The restorations have made it nearly unrecognizable. Weare so grateful to you for this kindness.

I only wish you would accept it without rent!

I think it is a matter of pride with my husband, Kitty said, glancing at Oz. Not that he is particularly proud, but there is something about a man

being able to provide for his wife well, you know.


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I do! I am pleased that George and he were able to come to an understanding, though for goodness sake! It should not have been necessary. I

have come to the conclusion that you simplymustbe fibbing to your dear mother about your husband losing his family estate to a sister.

Odd though it may seem to us, it is true enough,Kitty argued, grinning.

Surely he must have committed some some crime?


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Certainly not! Kitty was laughing now, and being watched by her step-father and husband with soft smiles on their faces.

Georgiana was smiling too. Well then, what would the reason be for him to be so crassly disinherited?

He does not like to speak of it. He says he never wanted the fortune, but I think he is not entirely honest about that.


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Kitty put her hand out and touched her mothers. Rubbing softly she said, I am here now. I will not leave you again. And when Kitty said that,

she knew it was true; now that she thought of it, she really liked what shed learned of Georgiana. The old woman was very amusing, and had no

qualms with getting straight to the point with things. The only thing Georgiana Haggerty ever seemed to be upset about was Kitty, and as Kitty had it

quite within her power to ease that pain, she would always try.


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Let us speak of something jolly! Georgiana said. She was not unaware that the eyes of the rest of her family were on her. I believe you told me

once that Mr. Legacina wishes to go into business?


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Indeed, yes, and so do I! He has begun looking at a small property in Simyton in which to open a shop for oh, all sorts of things for ladies.

Ribbons, perfumes, the like. I hope sincerely, that if we watch our accounts closely for a time then we will make our way in the world. The inheritance

you so relentlessly insisted I take will certainly help us, but there have been so many things weve had to purchase for Unconsciously, Kitty rubbed

her belly. And willneed to purchase for.


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Georgiana gasped and gripped her daughters hand beneath the table. Her face could hardly hold itself together with the force of her smile. Are

you of a delicate condition?


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Kitty smiled. Having a mother was not so bad, she was learning, and thought that since she was to have her own little one in the coming months

that a mother would be very handy indeed. Yes, yes I am with child, she whispered. Not entirely proper for table conversation, but she was not

about to lie.

You must be so happy my dear. Oh, my baby is having a baby! she whispered excitedly, bouncing.


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SHALL WE RETIRE TO THE DRAWING ROOM FOR DESSERT? Georgiana said rather loudly.


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George looked at his wife. My love, weve not even begun the soup.


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Oh, yes, Georgiana sighed. Half a second later she cleared her throat and eyed the servants to indicate that they should begin serving dinner

immediately, and that things should move quickly.


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Kitty giggled quietly, endlessly amused at her mothers excitement. I take it the news pleases you.

Oh, I cannot say how much it pleases me. I have gone from thinking my daughter lost forever, to finding her but thinkingshe despises me, to

finally thinking progress might be made, to learning that I will be a GRANDMOTHER BY THE VERY DAUGTHER I HAVE MISSED SO LONG.IT IS MARVELOUS.


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The entire table turned to stare at Georgiana Haggerty; Oz looked as if hed just seen a ghost.

Wha was all he managed to get out.


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Kitty panicked and shook her head fervently at her mother. She hadnt had the chance to speak of the baby to Oz yet, for she had only seen Doctor

Trimble that very morning and well she had decided to take a little while to adjust to the mad idea that she would be a mother before putting the

same stress on her husband.

Georgiana, of course, did not take the hint. Congratulations on the impending birth of your child, Mr. Legacina!

Oz slumped and fainted right into the soup that had just placed in front of him.

~


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Kitty laughed quietly at the memory, but spoke almost without delay. Mr. Legacina and I are expecting a child, she finally said.

~


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So, Story whispered. Lady Emma and Johnwhat do you think? Married by Winter?


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This chapter was brought to you by Sneery Bella Inc.


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Okay seriously, now I hope you enjoyed this chapter far, far more than John enjoys any sort of poetryparticularly

Simfrench romantic poetry.

S i l th k t f f tti S B ll i t h d d tl l ki it i th f O th

RegacyChapter 5.2 - In Stasis

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