[OTA] One Step Forward and Two Steps Back

[karatofquality]

Within the last several weeks, a lot had happened. People who were careful to keep their King in the loop were reporting the return of the last King of Spades, and monitoring his activities so that the Diamond Face Cards could be prepared for further upset.

Silas was less concerned with that than with the failings within his own Suit. He'd started to notice the strain between Säde and Avery even more, recently, and things weren't too much better between her and Cadogan. It was absolutely unacceptable.

But before he could talk to his Queen about it, he needed full information from his Ace and his Jack. There was enough unrest already as a direct result of Säde's uncontrolled actions, for which she had not yet truly answered.

All in due time.

He needed to talk to others, first.

Comments

[karatofquality]

His instant, instinctive response was a loud, sharp 'no,' but he stopped himself. Instead drawing a deep breath, he drummed his fingers on his thigh, watching her with a sad, calculating expression.

"In a month or two, we'll revisit the issue. For right now, consider my answer a temporary, hesitant 'maybe,' contingent entirely on the confirmation from your doctor--," and he gave her a serious look, at that, unwavering, unfaltering, "that you are free to move about as you please without risking further damage to yourself."

He'd prefer it written, signed, and provided in triplicate, but he'd settle with a single copy.

[thecutdiamond]

She nods at that, her expression understanding even though she can't help the disappointment deep in her heard that the answer wasn't more immediate. She knows he's entirely justified in his request.

"Of course. I'll make sure to speak to her about it so that that will be ready for you when the time comes."

[karatofquality]

Nodding in return, Silas sipped once more from his tea, inclining his head. "I appreciate that, Rachel. I know you're anxious to return to your everyday activities, but I hope you understand my hesitance."

He wanted her to fully recover, without hurting herself further. As it stood, it was miraculous that she wouldn't need a cane for the rest of her life, and he wanted to keep it that way (although he might be asking her doctor about that, just to ensure that she wasn't supposed to be on a cane).

[thecutdiamond]

"I do," she reassures, "It's-- simply somewhat frustrating, when I can only do so little."

You know she gets about doing her duty, Silas.

[karatofquality]

He knew, and that's why he wasn't riding her about it. "I know, darling, but if you overdo it, you'll only get worse. We can't afford that."

[thecutdiamond]

"You're right," Rachel answers with a sigh, "I'll be careful."

Is already being fairly careful, honestly.

[karatofquality]

"That's all I'm asking of you." He reaches out to rest a hand on her knee for just a brief moment before returning to his tea, finishing it and setting the cup aside.

There isn't exactly much more to be said on the matter.