[FLASHBACK] Diego and Morgan [and Mia] in Meet the Parents
((Mia was played by the lovely silverwind9))
((no)) ((Jesus, you ARE crazy))'> Diego: *Diego looks out over the landscape he and Mia are passing on the highway to Medium Valley - farms and rolling plains, not many signs of civilization. His motorcycle is purring underneath them, the wind whipping around the two of them, and he turns his head, flipping up the visor of his helmet to speak* You all right, kitten?
Mia: *hangs on tightly to Diego's sides, pressed into him--it isn't her first time on a bike by any means, but the length and speed at which they've been zooming down the roads has made her slightly dizzy. She leans forward, yelling to bypass the full helmet she's wearing* I-I'm fine! *they zoom past a signpost as she speaks, and she catches the words and numbers posted on it* I-it's the next exit!
Diego: Ha! Sure thing! Lean with me, kitten! *he flips his visor back down as he leans into the turn, not slowing down nearly as much as he should*
Mia: *makes a muffled eek and grimaces, hugging him all the tighter as she leans into the turn--she knows he's going too fast and would chastize him for it... if he wasn't controlling the fate of both of their lives at the moment*
Diego: *he laughs and guns it as they come onto the straight highway, the engine roaring like a disturbed beast as the bike speeds up with a detectable lurch*
Mia: *scowls at the laugh and resists the urge to punch him in the back of the head--that'd require her to release one of her hands from the tight grip around him*
Diego: *at that speed it only takes the two of them a few more minutes to reach Kurain, the bike's roar dying down to a gentle thrum as he pulls up outside of the Fey manor, killing the engine and getting off of the bike, taking his helmet off with one hand and offering the other to Mia* You all right, kitten?
Mia: *shakily takes his hand and steps down from the bike with his help--and then takes the occasion to pummel him on the arm in response to his question* Did... did you have to go so fast? *she still sounds slightly breathless as she removes her helmet*
Diego: *he laughs when she hits him, rubbing the spot in sarcastic affection* Kitten's got some claws on her today. *he takes her helmet from her - wouldn't want her hitting him with that - and sets both of them on the seat of his bike, fairly confident no one will steal it out here* Of course I did. Otherwise we would have been late.
Mia: *glances at her watch, sighing begrudgingly* You're right. And that would have given Aunt Morgan a bad first impression... *looks to him, and by her smile it's fairly obvious she's a little nervous. She starts arranging her hair and the scarf around her neck as best she can--the wind and the confines of her helmet have put both into disarray*
Diego: *at that he actually flinches, taking the thermos of coffee from its compartment under his seat* Wouldn't want that, I guess. Now...I should call her "Madame Fey," right? Is that it, or are there going to be times where I need other honorifics?
Mia: Um... that should be it. *frowns and bites her lip slightly in thought* Oh, but she might be addressing me as "Mystic Mia." *her expression softens somewhat* I gave that up when I left to become a lawyer... but it might be best to go along with her on that for today.
Diego: Ha! I dunno if I can stick to that, little kitten. *sips from his thermos*
Morgue: Stick to what, good sir? *Aunt Morgan has emerged from the manor to meet the ruckus out in the main road. She seems to have been in the process of styling her hair, with the length twisted at the base of her neck.* Oh my-- Mystic Mia. *bows to her niece*
Diego: *at the sound of Morgan's voice he nearly chokes, turning his head to the side and letting coffee fly in a fine mist, coughing as he looks at her again - knowing it's not his turn to speak*
Mia: *flushes and stands up straight at the sound of Morgan's voice, turning to the lady hurriedly and managing a skittery smile* A-a-aunt Morgan! It's... it's been a while. *she bows respectfully; it's been over a year since she's last been back to Kurain, and already the action is slightly awkward*
Mia: *glances over to the man beside her for a moment before she continues* Uhm... this... this is Diego Armando, Aunt Morgan. He's the top lawyer at the law firm I've been working at.
Morgue: *Morgan draws herself up for a brief moment, and gives Diego a chilly once-over before bowing to him, as well.* An honour, good sir. Welcome to Kurain Village.
Diego: *he bows back to her - the motion is stiff, overly formal, and he still has his thermos in one hand, but it's earnest and he keeps his expression neutral* Thank you, Madame Fey. It is an honor to be here.
Mia: *looks immensely relieved--and also slightly surprised--that Diego hasn't cracked one of his distinctive smiles*
Morgue: The honour is all ours, good sir. *bobs her head down again* I have looked forward to the day when I would meet the great professionals for whom Mystic Mia left behind her training. You must come inside for some lovely bitter green tea, and my jaw-droppingly large strawberry desserts. *makes an inviting gesture toward the house*
Mia: *looks troubled for a moment at what Morgan says, but if anything, her smile is all the more prominent as a result* *to Diego, touching his arm gently as she speaks* Aunt Morgan makes the greatest strawberry treats this side of L.A. *she starts towards the great doors of the house* Come on in.
Diego: *he looks back and forth between the two of them, confused but not letting it show on his face - he can't believe anyone would describe their desserts as "jaw-droppingly" large with a straight face* Of course, thank you. *he moves to follow Mia inside*
Morgue: *sweeps in after the two young people* I will escort the good sir to the tea room, Mystic Mia, if you would like to see to your sister. *touches a hand to her face self-consciously* I believe she may be in bed.
Mia: *laughs lightly at the mention of her sister and her present condition* Yes, I'll go wake her then. *smiles at Diego* She'll want to meet you.
Mia: *turns and heads towards the sleeping quarters* I'll be right back...!
Diego: *he watches her go, surprised that he's been abandoned, and raises his hand in a half-hearted wave* T-take your time...?
Morgue: Right this way, good sir. *with another gesture accented by the flowing sleeves of her kimono, Morgan walks down the hall until she reaches their destination and slides back the door. Inside: a low table laid with a tray of cakes, and bordered by enza cushions.*
Diego: Thank you, Madame - *he sees the cushions and realizes he has no idea what to do - should he kneel on them or sit cross-legged or what? of all the things for Mia not to tell him it had to be this, oh Hell* - Fey. *after that barely noticeable pause he walks to the table and stands by the table, trying to bide for time*
Diego: At which place would be proper for me to be seated, Madame Fey?
Morgue: *seems to be blind to her guest's plight, as she is moving past the table to an alcove in the far corner. She turns back to him, however, perhaps looking a little too innocent for a woman of her years.* Why, wherever our guest wishes to sit. We will not be hosting a full table today, good sir.
Diego: *Shit!* Thank you, Madame Fey.
Diego: *he turns with deliberate slowness, eyeing the cushion on the left-hand side, and goes through many different reasons in his head - the whole point of sitting on your knees is to keep you off of the floor but this would also alleviate joint pain and God almighty why didn't he watch more foreign cinema* *he sits cross-legged with a wince*
Morgue: *kneels in the alcove and busies herself with cups, a whisk, and a fine green powder* You must tell me how Mystic Mia is faring outside the village, good sir. We're all curious as to what enticed her out there.
Diego: *he spends a moment considering his answer - he wants to carefully measure it, so as not to embarrass himself or Mia* She is the most capable young lawyer I have ever met. She is destined for greatness - her first case turned into a tragedy, and that has wounded her, but it was beyond her control.
Morgue: I am happy she is succeeding so well in your world. *at last satisfied with the contents of the cups, she rises and brings them to the table, setting one before her guest as she takes the seat beside him* I'm sure her experiences will serve to build a wonderful leader for the village.
Diego: *he's actually surprised at that - Mia had told him a bit about her aunt, but he had thought at least some of it was exaggeration. When he speaks, his words are deliberate and carefully chosen* If that is the path she chooses to walk, yes.
Morgue: *averts her eyes ever so briefly, before focusing again to offer Diego a thin smile* But of course. She has formed ties outside the village, and those must be honoured, of course.
Morgue: *looks down again, this time at the untouched cups* Please, enjoy some lovely tea while we wait. Mystic Maya may take some time to join us.
Diego: *he looks at the tea with trepidation, a twitch of disdain in his left eyebrow, invisible to anyone not looking for it* Thank you, Madame Fey. *he lifts the cup to his lips and sips* ...Bitter.
Morgue: *her smile widens a little at this* Oh, yes. Our lovely tea is a delicacy from Japan, good sir, made with ground tea leaves. Strong-- bitter-- a perfect complement to our strawberry desserts. *gestures to the plate* Please, be my guest.
Diego: *he tries desperately not to narrow his eyes at the vaunted bitter tea, his tongue screaming for coffee as he takes a plate and lifts a piece of the dessert with his fork. He takes a moment to look at the bite - the texture in particular - before biting into it. It's legitimately delicious* Mmm. This is very good, Madame Fey.
Morgue: *makes a small bow to her guest, any reservations about him forgotten, for the moment* I am pleased you enjoy it, good sir. We pride ourselves on it. *smiles wistfully* There was a time when politicians would take tea with us, good sir. I am sure it is those days Mystic Mia aspires to, when she returns for good.
Diego: *the way Morgan keeps repeating that finally gets to him, but his tone is even, almost submissive in its inquisitiveness. He washes down the bite with a swallow of tea before posing his question* Madame Fey, are you so sure that she means to return to the village?
Morgue: *she freezes for a moment, then brings her own cup to her lips for a prolonged drink*
Morgue: *at last she brings her eyes back up to Diego, to stare frankly* Good sir, Mystic Mia is the heir to the Master's seat, the leader our village will look to for guidance, in future. And good sir, whatever appeals to Mystic Mia in the outside world, I am sure you will agree she is an upright woman who would not completely neglect her duties to the clan?
Diego: *he sets the tea down - a deliberate, careful motion. He looks Morgan in the face, though his tone and his eyes remain respectful, perfectly formal* I was told she had relinquished her title as Master, Madame Fey, so as to seek out her mother freely.
Morgue: *Her lips purse at this, but the tight line turns upward after a moment* It is true that in her youth Mystic Mia renounced our ways and her training, but I trust as she grows she will see fit to reclaim her responsibilities. She must, for there is no other fit heir.
Diego: She is talking to the heir now, Madame Fey.
Morgue: *that line across Morgan's face, that had a moment ago resembled a smile, now bares teeth* ...Perhaps... you are not aware of the village history, good sir. It is traditional for the eldest daughter to inherit the title. Why, the last generation shows what grief comes of upsetting that order.
Morgue: *looks hard at the man across from her* But indeed, you know more than I would have expected a mere colleague of Mystic Mia's. What are you to her, good sir?
Diego: I was her colleague - her senior at the law office at which she works. I believe the only term appropriate for describing our relationship now would be "lovers."
Morgue: *her face is a stone mask, still fixed on the man's face, but her voice is level when she speaks after a long silence to absorb what he just said* Indeed... I see now why Mystic Mia was less than forthcoming about her reason for bringing a guest...
Diego: *he chuckles at that, retaining his humor* I understand that she might be embarrassed, bringing an outsider into the village, especially when she and I are so close.
Morgue: *still she stares, but a small smile softens it* Indeed. I suppose every daughter worries about the impression her young man will make on her mother-- and good sir, I am the closest she has to a mother, anymore.
Diego: I am sure, Madame Fey. *he inclines his head to her before taking another bite of the dessert and washing it down with more tea* She will always remember that, I am sure, regardless of how long it takes her to find her birth mother.
Morgue: It has been an honour to usher her into adulthood, good sir. *finally breaks the stare of doom to take another sip of tea* That is not what I meant, however. As her mother, I am concerned for her future. How would you feel if your wife did choose to return to this quaint village, so far from the city?
Diego: *he spends a moment considering that; he does not want to offend, but more than that he does not want to misrepresent Mia or what she's doing* I would support her in any case, But I am not sure her return to the village is possible, Madame Fey. *he continues before a beat has passed*
Diego: I mean to say that she abdicated her position in order to search out the Master, but if she completes this then she will have no need to return to the village. Succeed or fail, she may never return here.
Morgue: *the smile, the warmth, and the colour leave her face in turn, and her cold eyes fix on him again* *softly she says* You-- you presume too much, good sir.
Diego: *he bows his head respectfully* Forgive me, Madame Fey. I am only an outsider. All I know of the village comes from *he has to catch himself before he just says her name* Mystic Mia.
Morgue: That is true, good sir. And as an outsider, I do hope you are not disregarding our culture-- Mia's culture-- as a mystery to be laid behind you if you may. I would not have it. I would not want Mystic Mia to marry someone who would turn her from her own culture.
Diego: Of course, Madame Fey. *another bow, another bite, another sip, another wince at the repetition of that tiresome honorific* I would not presume to go that far. Any growth in that direction is hers, far apart from my own influences.
Morgue: I am glad to hear it. *she does not look glad at all, still staring intently* So many men from the outside have presumed that they are in charge of their women. That is unacceptable, in our society.
Diego: *the grin that splits his face is uncontrollable, his eyes brightening for a moment as he sips from his tea* We do not live in the village, Madame Fey...but we are equal partners, she and I. Neither holds sway above the other. She agrees that this is best.
Morgue: *She does not seem any more impressed by this confident expression than she was by his simulated humility. Her eyes narrow, and she bites off each word as she says* If Mystic Mia were to succeed her birth mother, you would not be an equal partner to the Master. I hope you understand this, good sir.
Diego: *he does not drop the grin* Of course not, Madame Fey; I am aware of the matriarchy of Kurain. But that is how our relationship stands now...and Mystic Mia rather likes it this way.
Morgue: *bores holes into him for a long moment* I am... happy that Mystic Mia is happy. *her tone is still rather too sharp for these words to carry any conviction, her face too icy*
Diego: As am I. *he sips again, reeling in the grin as much as she can* She and I are equal partners, but I would do whatever it takes to make her happy; have done so already, to the best of my abilities. That is why I support her decision to become a lawyer and her decision to live in the city.
Morgue: *her lips purse as if she has tasted something bitter, although her cup remains level* She is... happy in the city? With a man such as you?
Diego: Yes, Madame Fey.
Morgue: I am-- happy for her. *finally averts her eyes, first downward as she slowly finishes her first cup, then up past Diego, at the door they had come through* Oh, what's keeping her with that girl?
Diego: I am sure she is taking time to tell her sister about me before coming to meet me, Madame Fey. This is my first time meeting Mystic Mia's family; I am sure she is as nervous about the impression her family makes on me as the reverse. *he finishes his dessert and washes it down with the last sip of his tea, congratulating himself for his portioning and glad the tea is finally gone*
Morgue: *puts a hand over her mouth abashedly* I do hope I have not made a poor impression on you with my maternal concern. *letting that sentiment hang in the air, she wordlessly takes the cups and returns to the alcove to mix more tea*
Diego: Erk! *he flinches, wondering if he's offended her* Of course not, Madame Fey. I have not been so graciously hosted before. I merely mean to offer a possible explanation; Mystic Mia is very considerate towards my own feelings, as well.
Morgue: Mystic Mia is a very considerate, open-hearted woman-- as a leader should be. I am gratified to think she grew up so because of me. I have never raised my own child. *returns to her cushion, presenting her guest's fresh cup with a bow*
Diego: *he manages to hold back a groan as he looks down at the fresh tea, he's hated this stuff ever since he was a kid and green tea doesn't even have the sense of presence simply to taste bad* Thank you. You must be very proud of her, and of what she has chosen to do with herself.
Morgue: *freezes with her own cup halfway to her lips* I am... very proud of her. As for what she has chosen to do-- I-- I understand that I will never replace her real mother in her heart.
Diego: I am sure she is grateful to you; but it takes much fortitude and courage to abandon the life you know to pursue something you believe in. Her strength and willingness to act on her beliefs is a boon to her. *he sips - it's like water - and says no more*
Morgue: You make a point, good sir. Such things as courage and fortitude are what we need in a leader. *sips her tea, frowning a little* On the other hand, being too courageous, too brash-- well, her mother proved that could bring only sorrow.
Diego: *there is a twitch in his right eyebrow, and his tea stops an inch away from his mouth, but his face betrays nothing* What do you mean to say, Madame Fey? Do you believe that somehow reflects ill on Mystic Mia?
Morgue: *sighs sadly* Mystic Misty left us because she took on a world she could not handle. It is only natural that I should worry Mystic Mia is following in her footsteps, in spite of my upbringing of her.
Diego: Ha!
Morgue: *her eyebrows shoot up* You think it's funny that I pray Mystic Mia does not ruin herself as her mother did?
Diego: *he tosses his head - his expression shifts into one of amused condescension, it is like he has transformed into an entirely different person* It is one thing to think ill of me, and I will grant that. *his thermos is in his hand, the cap comes off, and he takes a swig of coffee* It is when you doubt my kitten that you make your most bitter mistake.
Morgue: *so many things serve to offend her eyes at this moment-- her gaze darts between the man's face and his thermos, and she bares her teeth in a sneer* You dare-- you dare-- *she seems to choke on her words, uncertain which is the greater offence*
Diego: I dare point out that in that test of respect, of faith in one's master, you have failed - fealty ill-suits you, it seems. *he sips again* Mia Fey is the strongest and best woman I have ever met, and it is a man's duty to defend the honor of his woman.
Morgue: Her mother was a strong woman, too-- so strong she nearly tore the tradition down around our ears! *her grip tightens on her cup* And you-- an outsider, who disrespects a Fey with the name of "Kitten"-- you dare question my fealty to the clan...?
Diego: *all thoughts of propriety are abandoned, and his grin is wide, and he sips his coffee* I dare, Madame Fey.
Morgue: *her eyes narrow until they are slits of white* You-- You are the most insolent, arrogant man I have ever met. You are not fit to stand at Mystic Mia's side.
Diego: Ha! Better I stand at her side in support than she be waited upon by a woman who would undermine what she attempts to work for! My kitten is Mia Fey, an attorney - if she chooses to be the master of this village I will support her - *and his grin reaches its apex* - but I think she likes what she does now. Don't you?
Morgue: *finally seems to lose what shred of restraint was holding her back, and dashes her cup of tea into that foul, smug grin* You-- you are no man to stand behind our Master, whether she returns or doesn't. *lowers her voice to a hiss, rounding out the serpentine impression of her blanched eyes* I will never accept you.
Diego: *the still-steaming tea hits him full in the face, and he blinks in surprise at her* *he pauses for a beat, and then he grins* How...bitter. *he shifts his coffee to his left hand, picking up the almost entirely full cup of tea in his right, and holds the tea out at arm's length - before up-ending it, and pouring its contents unceremoniously onto the floor*
Morgue: *jumps to her feet so quickly she stumbles as her legs tangle* *she recovers and glares down at him wordlessly, steam practically coming out of her enormous hair*
Diego: *he rises, too, and grins down at her as tea runs down his face. He wipes his hand across his visage, slinging more droplets across the room, never taking his eyes off of her* If you will excuse me, old woman, I think I will go find my kitten and her baby sister. *he turns, and begins to walk out* I am sure I can find their bedroom.
Morgue: *is almost too mad to speak, but chokes out an imperious order after him* You will not go into her bedroom! I will not allow that!
Diego: *he looks over his shoulder and gives a dismissive wave* You would be surprised to hear how often I frequent Mia's bedroom, I'm sure. *with that, he's gone, walking down the hallway, still grinning*
((no))
Mia: *hangs on tightly to Diego's sides, pressed into him--it isn't her first time on a bike by any means, but the length and speed at which they've been zooming down the roads has made her slightly dizzy. She leans forward, yelling to bypass the full helmet she's wearing* I-I'm fine! *they zoom past a signpost as she speaks, and she catches the words and numbers posted on it* I-it's the next exit!
Diego: Ha! Sure thing! Lean with me, kitten! *he flips his visor back down as he leans into the turn, not slowing down nearly as much as he should*
Mia: *makes a muffled eek and grimaces, hugging him all the tighter as she leans into the turn--she knows he's going too fast and would chastize him for it... if he wasn't controlling the fate of both of their lives at the moment*
Diego: *he laughs and guns it as they come onto the straight highway, the engine roaring like a disturbed beast as the bike speeds up with a detectable lurch*
Mia: *scowls at the laugh and resists the urge to punch him in the back of the head--that'd require her to release one of her hands from the tight grip around him*
Diego: *at that speed it only takes the two of them a few more minutes to reach Kurain, the bike's roar dying down to a gentle thrum as he pulls up outside of the Fey manor, killing the engine and getting off of the bike, taking his helmet off with one hand and offering the other to Mia* You all right, kitten?
Mia: *shakily takes his hand and steps down from the bike with his help--and then takes the occasion to pummel him on the arm in response to his question* Did... did you have to go so fast? *she still sounds slightly breathless as she removes her helmet*
Diego: *he laughs when she hits him, rubbing the spot in sarcastic affection* Kitten's got some claws on her today. *he takes her helmet from her - wouldn't want her hitting him with that - and sets both of them on the seat of his bike, fairly confident no one will steal it out here* Of course I did. Otherwise we would have been late.
Mia: *glances at her watch, sighing begrudgingly* You're right. And that would have given Aunt Morgan a bad first impression... *looks to him, and by her smile it's fairly obvious she's a little nervous. She starts arranging her hair and the scarf around her neck as best she can--the wind and the confines of her helmet have put both into disarray*
Diego: *at that he actually flinches, taking the thermos of coffee from its compartment under his seat* Wouldn't want that, I guess. Now...I should call her "Madame Fey," right? Is that it, or are there going to be times where I need other honorifics?
Mia: Um... that should be it. *frowns and bites her lip slightly in thought* Oh, but she might be addressing me as "Mystic Mia." *her expression softens somewhat* I gave that up when I left to become a lawyer... but it might be best to go along with her on that for today.
Diego: Ha! I dunno if I can stick to that, little kitten. *sips from his thermos*
Morgue: Stick to what, good sir? *Aunt Morgan has emerged from the manor to meet the ruckus out in the main road. She seems to have been in the process of styling her hair, with the length twisted at the base of her neck.* Oh my-- Mystic Mia. *bows to her niece*
Diego: *at the sound of Morgan's voice he nearly chokes, turning his head to the side and letting coffee fly in a fine mist, coughing as he looks at her again - knowing it's not his turn to speak*
Mia: *flushes and stands up straight at the sound of Morgan's voice, turning to the lady hurriedly and managing a skittery smile* A-a-aunt Morgan! It's... it's been a while. *she bows respectfully; it's been over a year since she's last been back to Kurain, and already the action is slightly awkward*
Mia: *glances over to the man beside her for a moment before she continues* Uhm... this... this is Diego Armando, Aunt Morgan. He's the top lawyer at the law firm I've been working at.
Morgue: *Morgan draws herself up for a brief moment, and gives Diego a chilly once-over before bowing to him, as well.* An honour, good sir. Welcome to Kurain Village.
Diego: *he bows back to her - the motion is stiff, overly formal, and he still has his thermos in one hand, but it's earnest and he keeps his expression neutral* Thank you, Madame Fey. It is an honor to be here.
Mia: *looks immensely relieved--and also slightly surprised--that Diego hasn't cracked one of his distinctive smiles*
Morgue: The honour is all ours, good sir. *bobs her head down again* I have looked forward to the day when I would meet the great professionals for whom Mystic Mia left behind her training. You must come inside for some lovely bitter green tea, and my jaw-droppingly large strawberry desserts. *makes an inviting gesture toward the house*
Mia: *looks troubled for a moment at what Morgan says, but if anything, her smile is all the more prominent as a result* *to Diego, touching his arm gently as she speaks* Aunt Morgan makes the greatest strawberry treats this side of L.A. *she starts towards the great doors of the house* Come on in.
Diego: *he looks back and forth between the two of them, confused but not letting it show on his face - he can't believe anyone would describe their desserts as "jaw-droppingly" large with a straight face* Of course, thank you. *he moves to follow Mia inside*
Morgue: *sweeps in after the two young people* I will escort the good sir to the tea room, Mystic Mia, if you would like to see to your sister. *touches a hand to her face self-consciously* I believe she may be in bed.
Mia: *laughs lightly at the mention of her sister and her present condition* Yes, I'll go wake her then. *smiles at Diego* She'll want to meet you.
Mia: *turns and heads towards the sleeping quarters* I'll be right back...!
Diego: *he watches her go, surprised that he's been abandoned, and raises his hand in a half-hearted wave* T-take your time...?
Morgue: Right this way, good sir. *with another gesture accented by the flowing sleeves of her kimono, Morgan walks down the hall until she reaches their destination and slides back the door. Inside: a low table laid with a tray of cakes, and bordered by enza cushions.*
Diego: Thank you, Madame - *he sees the cushions and realizes he has no idea what to do - should he kneel on them or sit cross-legged or what? of all the things for Mia not to tell him it had to be this, oh Hell* - Fey. *after that barely noticeable pause he walks to the table and stands by the table, trying to bide for time*
Diego: At which place would be proper for me to be seated, Madame Fey?
Morgue: *seems to be blind to her guest's plight, as she is moving past the table to an alcove in the far corner. She turns back to him, however, perhaps looking a little too innocent for a woman of her years.* Why, wherever our guest wishes to sit. We will not be hosting a full table today, good sir.
Diego: *Shit!* Thank you, Madame Fey.
Diego: *he turns with deliberate slowness, eyeing the cushion on the left-hand side, and goes through many different reasons in his head - the whole point of sitting on your knees is to keep you off of the floor but this would also alleviate joint pain and God almighty why didn't he watch more foreign cinema* *he sits cross-legged with a wince*
Morgue: *kneels in the alcove and busies herself with cups, a whisk, and a fine green powder* You must tell me how Mystic Mia is faring outside the village, good sir. We're all curious as to what enticed her out there.
Diego: *he spends a moment considering his answer - he wants to carefully measure it, so as not to embarrass himself or Mia* She is the most capable young lawyer I have ever met. She is destined for greatness - her first case turned into a tragedy, and that has wounded her, but it was beyond her control.
Morgue: I am happy she is succeeding so well in your world. *at last satisfied with the contents of the cups, she rises and brings them to the table, setting one before her guest as she takes the seat beside him* I'm sure her experiences will serve to build a wonderful leader for the village.
Diego: *he's actually surprised at that - Mia had told him a bit about her aunt, but he had thought at least some of it was exaggeration. When he speaks, his words are deliberate and carefully chosen* If that is the path she chooses to walk, yes.
Morgue: *averts her eyes ever so briefly, before focusing again to offer Diego a thin smile* But of course. She has formed ties outside the village, and those must be honoured, of course.
Morgue: *looks down again, this time at the untouched cups* Please, enjoy some lovely tea while we wait. Mystic Maya may take some time to join us.
Diego: *he looks at the tea with trepidation, a twitch of disdain in his left eyebrow, invisible to anyone not looking for it* Thank you, Madame Fey. *he lifts the cup to his lips and sips* ...Bitter.
Morgue: *her smile widens a little at this* Oh, yes. Our lovely tea is a delicacy from Japan, good sir, made with ground tea leaves. Strong-- bitter-- a perfect complement to our strawberry desserts. *gestures to the plate* Please, be my guest.
Diego: *he tries desperately not to narrow his eyes at the vaunted bitter tea, his tongue screaming for coffee as he takes a plate and lifts a piece of the dessert with his fork. He takes a moment to look at the bite - the texture in particular - before biting into it. It's legitimately delicious* Mmm. This is very good, Madame Fey.
Morgue: *makes a small bow to her guest, any reservations about him forgotten, for the moment* I am pleased you enjoy it, good sir. We pride ourselves on it. *smiles wistfully* There was a time when politicians would take tea with us, good sir. I am sure it is those days Mystic Mia aspires to, when she returns for good.
Diego: *the way Morgan keeps repeating that finally gets to him, but his tone is even, almost submissive in its inquisitiveness. He washes down the bite with a swallow of tea before posing his question* Madame Fey, are you so sure that she means to return to the village?
Morgue: *she freezes for a moment, then brings her own cup to her lips for a prolonged drink*
Morgue: *at last she brings her eyes back up to Diego, to stare frankly* Good sir, Mystic Mia is the heir to the Master's seat, the leader our village will look to for guidance, in future. And good sir, whatever appeals to Mystic Mia in the outside world, I am sure you will agree she is an upright woman who would not completely neglect her duties to the clan?
Diego: *he sets the tea down - a deliberate, careful motion. He looks Morgan in the face, though his tone and his eyes remain respectful, perfectly formal* I was told she had relinquished her title as Master, Madame Fey, so as to seek out her mother freely.
Morgue: *Her lips purse at this, but the tight line turns upward after a moment* It is true that in her youth Mystic Mia renounced our ways and her training, but I trust as she grows she will see fit to reclaim her responsibilities. She must, for there is no other fit heir.
Diego: She is talking to the heir now, Madame Fey.
Morgue: *that line across Morgan's face, that had a moment ago resembled a smile, now bares teeth* ...Perhaps... you are not aware of the village history, good sir. It is traditional for the eldest daughter to inherit the title. Why, the last generation shows what grief comes of upsetting that order.
Morgue: *looks hard at the man across from her* But indeed, you know more than I would have expected a mere colleague of Mystic Mia's. What are you to her, good sir?
Diego: I was her colleague - her senior at the law office at which she works. I believe the only term appropriate for describing our relationship now would be "lovers."
Morgue: *her face is a stone mask, still fixed on the man's face, but her voice is level when she speaks after a long silence to absorb what he just said* Indeed... I see now why Mystic Mia was less than forthcoming about her reason for bringing a guest...
Diego: *he chuckles at that, retaining his humor* I understand that she might be embarrassed, bringing an outsider into the village, especially when she and I are so close.
Morgue: *still she stares, but a small smile softens it* Indeed. I suppose every daughter worries about the impression her young man will make on her mother-- and good sir, I am the closest she has to a mother, anymore.
Diego: I am sure, Madame Fey. *he inclines his head to her before taking another bite of the dessert and washing it down with more tea* She will always remember that, I am sure, regardless of how long it takes her to find her birth mother.
Morgue: It has been an honour to usher her into adulthood, good sir. *finally breaks the stare of doom to take another sip of tea* That is not what I meant, however. As her mother, I am concerned for her future. How would you feel if your wife did choose to return to this quaint village, so far from the city?
Diego: *he spends a moment considering that; he does not want to offend, but more than that he does not want to misrepresent Mia or what she's doing* I would support her in any case, But I am not sure her return to the village is possible, Madame Fey. *he continues before a beat has passed*
Diego: I mean to say that she abdicated her position in order to search out the Master, but if she completes this then she will have no need to return to the village. Succeed or fail, she may never return here.
Morgue: *the smile, the warmth, and the colour leave her face in turn, and her cold eyes fix on him again* *softly she says* You-- you presume too much, good sir.
Diego: *he bows his head respectfully* Forgive me, Madame Fey. I am only an outsider. All I know of the village comes from *he has to catch himself before he just says her name* Mystic Mia.
Morgue: That is true, good sir. And as an outsider, I do hope you are not disregarding our culture-- Mia's culture-- as a mystery to be laid behind you if you may. I would not have it. I would not want Mystic Mia to marry someone who would turn her from her own culture.
Diego: Of course, Madame Fey. *another bow, another bite, another sip, another wince at the repetition of that tiresome honorific* I would not presume to go that far. Any growth in that direction is hers, far apart from my own influences.
Morgue: I am glad to hear it. *she does not look glad at all, still staring intently* So many men from the outside have presumed that they are in charge of their women. That is unacceptable, in our society.
Diego: *the grin that splits his face is uncontrollable, his eyes brightening for a moment as he sips from his tea* We do not live in the village, Madame Fey...but we are equal partners, she and I. Neither holds sway above the other. She agrees that this is best.
Morgue: *She does not seem any more impressed by this confident expression than she was by his simulated humility. Her eyes narrow, and she bites off each word as she says* If Mystic Mia were to succeed her birth mother, you would not be an equal partner to the Master. I hope you understand this, good sir.
Diego: *he does not drop the grin* Of course not, Madame Fey; I am aware of the matriarchy of Kurain. But that is how our relationship stands now...and Mystic Mia rather likes it this way.
Morgue: *bores holes into him for a long moment* I am... happy that Mystic Mia is happy. *her tone is still rather too sharp for these words to carry any conviction, her face too icy*
Diego: As am I. *he sips again, reeling in the grin as much as she can* She and I are equal partners, but I would do whatever it takes to make her happy; have done so already, to the best of my abilities. That is why I support her decision to become a lawyer and her decision to live in the city.
Morgue: *her lips purse as if she has tasted something bitter, although her cup remains level* She is... happy in the city? With a man such as you?
Diego: Yes, Madame Fey.
Morgue: I am-- happy for her. *finally averts her eyes, first downward as she slowly finishes her first cup, then up past Diego, at the door they had come through* Oh, what's keeping her with that girl?
Diego: I am sure she is taking time to tell her sister about me before coming to meet me, Madame Fey. This is my first time meeting Mystic Mia's family; I am sure she is as nervous about the impression her family makes on me as the reverse. *he finishes his dessert and washes it down with the last sip of his tea, congratulating himself for his portioning and glad the tea is finally gone*
Morgue: *puts a hand over her mouth abashedly* I do hope I have not made a poor impression on you with my maternal concern. *letting that sentiment hang in the air, she wordlessly takes the cups and returns to the alcove to mix more tea*
Diego: Erk! *he flinches, wondering if he's offended her* Of course not, Madame Fey. I have not been so graciously hosted before. I merely mean to offer a possible explanation; Mystic Mia is very considerate towards my own feelings, as well.
Morgue: Mystic Mia is a very considerate, open-hearted woman-- as a leader should be. I am gratified to think she grew up so because of me. I have never raised my own child. *returns to her cushion, presenting her guest's fresh cup with a bow*
Diego: *he manages to hold back a groan as he looks down at the fresh tea, he's hated this stuff ever since he was a kid and green tea doesn't even have the sense of presence simply to taste bad* Thank you. You must be very proud of her, and of what she has chosen to do with herself.
Morgue: *freezes with her own cup halfway to her lips* I am... very proud of her. As for what she has chosen to do-- I-- I understand that I will never replace her real mother in her heart.
Diego: I am sure she is grateful to you; but it takes much fortitude and courage to abandon the life you know to pursue something you believe in. Her strength and willingness to act on her beliefs is a boon to her. *he sips - it's like water - and says no more*
Morgue: You make a point, good sir. Such things as courage and fortitude are what we need in a leader. *sips her tea, frowning a little* On the other hand, being too courageous, too brash-- well, her mother proved that could bring only sorrow.
Diego: *there is a twitch in his right eyebrow, and his tea stops an inch away from his mouth, but his face betrays nothing* What do you mean to say, Madame Fey? Do you believe that somehow reflects ill on Mystic Mia?
Morgue: *sighs sadly* Mystic Misty left us because she took on a world she could not handle. It is only natural that I should worry Mystic Mia is following in her footsteps, in spite of my upbringing of her.
Diego: Ha!
Morgue: *her eyebrows shoot up* You think it's funny that I pray Mystic Mia does not ruin herself as her mother did?
Diego: *he tosses his head - his expression shifts into one of amused condescension, it is like he has transformed into an entirely different person* It is one thing to think ill of me, and I will grant that. *his thermos is in his hand, the cap comes off, and he takes a swig of coffee* It is when you doubt my kitten that you make your most bitter mistake.
Morgue: *so many things serve to offend her eyes at this moment-- her gaze darts between the man's face and his thermos, and she bares her teeth in a sneer* You dare-- you dare-- *she seems to choke on her words, uncertain which is the greater offence*
Diego: I dare point out that in that test of respect, of faith in one's master, you have failed - fealty ill-suits you, it seems. *he sips again* Mia Fey is the strongest and best woman I have ever met, and it is a man's duty to defend the honor of his woman.
Morgue: Her mother was a strong woman, too-- so strong she nearly tore the tradition down around our ears! *her grip tightens on her cup* And you-- an outsider, who disrespects a Fey with the name of "Kitten"-- you dare question my fealty to the clan...?
Diego: *all thoughts of propriety are abandoned, and his grin is wide, and he sips his coffee* I dare, Madame Fey.
Morgue: *her eyes narrow until they are slits of white* You-- You are the most insolent, arrogant man I have ever met. You are not fit to stand at Mystic Mia's side.
Diego: Ha! Better I stand at her side in support than she be waited upon by a woman who would undermine what she attempts to work for! My kitten is Mia Fey, an attorney - if she chooses to be the master of this village I will support her - *and his grin reaches its apex* - but I think she likes what she does now. Don't you?
Morgue: *finally seems to lose what shred of restraint was holding her back, and dashes her cup of tea into that foul, smug grin* You-- you are no man to stand behind our Master, whether she returns or doesn't. *lowers her voice to a hiss, rounding out the serpentine impression of her blanched eyes* I will never accept you.
Diego: *the still-steaming tea hits him full in the face, and he blinks in surprise at her* *he pauses for a beat, and then he grins* How...bitter. *he shifts his coffee to his left hand, picking up the almost entirely full cup of tea in his right, and holds the tea out at arm's length - before up-ending it, and pouring its contents unceremoniously onto the floor*
Morgue: *jumps to her feet so quickly she stumbles as her legs tangle* *she recovers and glares down at him wordlessly, steam practically coming out of her enormous hair*
Diego: *he rises, too, and grins down at her as tea runs down his face. He wipes his hand across his visage, slinging more droplets across the room, never taking his eyes off of her* If you will excuse me, old woman, I think I will go find my kitten and her baby sister. *he turns, and begins to walk out* I am sure I can find their bedroom.
Morgue: *is almost too mad to speak, but chokes out an imperious order after him* You will not go into her bedroom! I will not allow that!
Diego: *he looks over his shoulder and gives a dismissive wave* You would be surprised to hear how often I frequent Mia's bedroom, I'm sure. *with that, he's gone, walking down the hallway, still grinning*