Geddoe's Return

[Carlotta]

Thankful for the heavy cloud cover, it maintained a reasonable warmth to the wintry air that encompassed the area. Though that which whipped about the docks area was only matched by areas of high elevation. Once again she had managed to sneak out of her house in the middle of the night, her parents and guest all sound asleep. Instead of the usual finery of gowns, tonight she had changed her incognito dress code. The heavy adornment of that midnight colored cloak was the same, although wool breeches were tucked neatly into the neck of knee high leather boots. Thick woolen sweater adorned over the heavy threaded cotton of tunic. Ebon mane flowed freely, beneath the cover of that up drawn hood. Fur lined leather gloves protected slender digits from any chance of frost bite. It would be to the market area in which she'd head, the activities of such places ran through the night and into the early mornings. A great place in which to get lost in, disappear for a short time so to speak, and not gain a second look from any passing. Due to size, more like a street urchin she'd represent, even if the cut of the cloth which adorned her small stature would be evidence that was far from the case. It would be to the vendor who sold books that she'd now seek, for several reason.


It had been a few years since Geddoe had been anywhere near
the area that he now traveled. He looked a lot different from the last time
he had been seen, so he didn't think it a priority to disguise himself.
Simple cotton shirt wrapped his torso; darker wool pants covered his lower frame. Boots of black leather thudded against the wood as he walked. A pack was
thrown over one shoulder, which held everything, he had in his life. Geddoe
carried no weapons now that one could see, as most were hidden against his shoulders, or inside of his boots. Dark pools of brown found themselves drifting from left to right as he moved towards...well, nowhere in particular. But by
chance, the urge to stop by a particular book seller took a hold of him and he slowed his steps, bringing himself next to the woman. He paid her no attention for the moment, free hand sliding slowly over various book covers.


Stock still she stood as eyes began to wander over the
volumes on display. The engraved titles upon the worn leather bindings read
with a slight tilt of her head. Only a glance was spared towards her side
when another approached to view the vendors wares. Then back to her search she
continued, only moving when she was unable to read the faint writing upon the
covers. Soon enough she'd begin to pluck books from their shelving, leafing
through the pages; only to return them to whence they came and move on. Soon she found one that captivated her attention. Upon the cover one could easily discern
the word Spain. This was being more closely viewed, the pages slowly thumbed
through. One hand lifted to draw back the cowl of her hood a bit more, to keep
it's shadow from dancing upon the pages being read. Even inching more closely
towards the lantern provided to gain better light.


Geddoe glanced towards the woman for a moment himself, before
letting his gaze drop back towards the books. Soon digits stopped over a book
that said it contained various childish pirate stories. He grinned to himself
slightly, letting his fingers slip around the book and picking it up.
It seemed the woman had the right idea to move towards a light source, for
the slim light that was getting to him was just enough to notice was the
cover said, but it would take more to actually read the printed words inside. So he stepped towards the lantern himself, letting the book fall open to a random
page. He'd begin reading for a moment, before letting his eyes shift towards
the woman near him. Geddoe did a double take then...Was it? No, it couldn't
be, could it? He was fairly certain it was, but he had to be sure. "A rather
odd hour for a woman ta be readin' books, no?" He'd set his book down then,
and offer his hand towards her. "I'd be Geddoe..." Inside he was laughing,
knowing it had to be her.


Odd hour for a woman to be reading a book? Was that what she had heard? Slowly the book was lowered, as head rose and eyes shifted in the
direction of the voice. If daggers could be shot from one's eyes, the look
that rested upon the man at that moment would have made him look like Swiss
Cheese after. Just as she was about to retort with a smart assed comment, the
words fell mute upon her lips. It took the combination of face and name for
the familiarity to come about. He had indeed changed, a lot, and a slow blink as now features took on that look as if she had just seen a ghost. "Geddoe!?!" The
shock would be heard in tone. "You're alive!" Quite the exclamation, being
the man stood before her. Now please don't feel insulted she didn't take
that hand, for she was simply standing there gawking. It was then a sensation
of dread over came her and a quick glance around before looking back to him.
"Pick up a book and read it whilst we speak." She would have embraced him
had it been another time or place. For now, she had a lot to protect, much
that was at stake. Moving to where her book was in the light, but shadows
were cast upon herself, even drawing that hood forward slightly to hide features
from passing view. Surely Geddoe wouldn't find this odd, not after who they
both served under. He'd learn soon enough as to why the cloak and dagger
appearance was being so strictly maintained.


Geddoe let a grin slide upon his features as the shock
overtook her. He had even been about to respond to her before she requested
him to pick up a book. The grin faded and he nodded slightly, reaching for the
pirate book again. Once more it was opened to a random page and he began 'reading'. Eyes would shift slightly in each direction for a moment before settling on the text. The action was repeated several times. The pack on his back was even set down and he took the book in both hands, looking as if he was getting more into it. Geddoe would wait for her to speak up, seeing as she knew more about what was going on. Though, to Geddoe...it was business as usual with his old friend.


Fox or Hound-: He never did enjoy this part of his job, it
was boring and to be quite honest a pain in he arse. He had other things he
would rather be doing at this time, but recent information and the chance to
stir the pot was all but impossible for him to resist. Of course he would not
admit that the barrister was harder to follow than anticipated, in fact it had
required him to backtrack twice and circle before he found her, after her
little disappearance acts. He d**ned his luck in that a man had appeared, and
from the reaction someone she knew...he would make that split second of
surprise, the way her little shoulders moved and her hand rising to her hood
pay....not in a painful way of course. Bloody cold, but it would be worth it. His luck however was turning, as across from the very bookstand she now browsed
was a small indoor shop of varying plate ware. The fact that it sold plate ware
mattered little, what mattered was the beggar child outside of it and the
large picture window, a rarity for so humble a shop. It was by the scruff of
the boy’s neck and a shiny piece that he led the boy inside. Luck was the
intersection of opportunity and preparedness, prepared he was. A small
piece of parchment and a coal pencil would do nicely. He wrote what he needed
on it, then gave the instructions to the boy. Of course the boy couldn't
read, but the words weren't for his benefit. He made him repeat what he was to
say four times, before sending him out the door and to the bookstore. He, the
fox, took his time in finding the correct position in the window. Going so
far as to pick the lint off of his wool jacket, and folding arms behind back.
The boy, smelling of stale urine, and surprisingly worse, would appear at the
Ladies' side. Clutching a piece of paper, he looked down to it...an act, for
his acting was terrible. His voice cracked with puberty, managing:...My
master seeks, first edition...To..To-to...Superseed..:The ee was stressed far
to much, but the word was clearly supersede: a..:An was a complicated
task:...Am-big-u-us.. Ambiguous. : Barrister of Spain...:To which the book vendor merely cracked an eyebrow, for the boy did not remain long enough to see if it had it. Instead the paper was thrown down on the table, upon it in sprawling letters read: Behind you of course: Edward Cunningham's wife is dead, why?...:The duke was believed to have killed his wife, or so it was
whispered. If she did indeed turn, she would find her fox in the window...come and gone again. Disappeared, and in his wake an urchin boy with shiny things.:


Geddoe let his eyes move to the boy for a split second before
returning to his book. He'd let the little thing speak, and when he was done
and gone, Geddoe sighed slightly. He wasn't sure what was going on, but he
knew it wasn't anything very good. The words he spoke next, looked as if he
was reading from the book. "I need ta go...I'll find ya tomorra night." With
that, the book he had, was now placed back where he found it and his pack was
lifted onto his shoulder once more. Geddoe turned and started in the
direction he had come without sparing a looking to the woman.


A slow blink as attention turned to the boy, why did his
words chill her such? She'd not glance in Geddoe's direction when he spoke,
knowing she didn't need to. When the boy dashed off, it would be the small
parchment that gained her attention next. Slowly the book was closed and the piece of paper lifted to read again. The hackles on the back of her neck, and the chill along her spine, had not a thing to do with the chill of the evening.
Slowly her head lifted as she'd turn to look behind her. Chestnut pools
slowly scanning the area to see if she found the source of not only the note,
but the words uttered by the boy. She had a sneaky suspicion whom that it might
be, now she was looking to see if the man hid like a thief, or would make his
presence known to her physically, having gone to such a degree. She knew d**n
well she was able to sneak away from the Plantation undetected, and her state
of dress in breeches and heavy sweater beneath that cloak made it not obvious of
whom she was. Merchants may be able to make out the finer cut of cloth that
was worn, but not those who usually milled about the docks or market area. So
she was followed, or tracked, and this set well not within her. The book she
had been viewing would be returned to the stand, as she'd slowly being to
walk in the direction of the young boy.


Plates-:He was more use to the wooden type, and the wooden
sthingy which seemed to serve everything all right. These glass contraptions
were a bore, and more so the price labeled upon them. He had lingered at the
window long enough only to see the child complete his task and return for his
reward. He now browsed the shop, to the eager anticipation of the owner. In
truth it was nothing but a passing of time while he awaited his barrister.
The chance to scare her...to remind her of those she dealt with was far too
good to pass up, or to wait and see the reaction of it. She was smart enough
to see the boy enter and leave the shop, smart enough to see him hording his
catch outside it. His chosen point of begging. Here he did not have to pretend to be a humane Captain of the military, the Fox had flashed his teeth with a
simple procedure. It is not hard considering they had first met at the Docks,
and she in disguise. Pick your poison, he either recognized the height and
build of her from the plantation. Or better yet, had been waiting near the
Docks with similar thoughts in mind. How many men of that high and build
appeared from the plantation and went to the Docks, how many women that
needed to hide their face? If you are in a crowd, and you are the only one
who has their face a black hole. It is not hard to see. Perhaps he would
point these out to her, to really scare her...or, the shoes...Nae, he thought as he looked over a piece of some finery or such. The note would do enough.:


She'd not directly enter the shop, oh no, she had something
other in mind. It would be to the large window to which she'd step up to and
peer inside. Her suspicion was now founded, when she espied the Captain
within the establishment. Anger, such anger did she bear at the moment,
in knowing he was following her. A glance then spared towards the boy, and
slowly a grin formed upon lips. Reaching into a pant pocket, she'd withdraw
three silver coins as she made her way over to the boy. Leaning over she'd
speak to him, handing over the coins as she did. Words whispered near the
young lad’s ear, and his head nodding when asked if he understood. Standing, a
look of satisfaction upon her face, she watched as the boy entered the shop
before she'd turn and walk away. Purposely blending with the crowd in order
to place herself for better viewing of what may happen after. The boy would
enter the shop and walk up to the Captain, softly clearing his throat to gain the man's attention. Once he was sure it was gotten, only then did he recite the
next words. "Da laidee said ....." A pause to make sure he got it right, for
there was promise of more coins to be given once he finished his task. "....dun
be o'bonnie lass. Got sumpfin t'say, get ye sum balls and stop hidin'." The
boy would then flash him a rotten toothed smile and blow him a kiss before
he'd turn and run out of the shop. He ran to the nearest tree and there beneath
the snow he'd find his reward. Tonight was a night of wealth for the boy,
he'd choose this spot more often. Where she had positioned herself, was in a
place to where she could watch his reaction.


Bonnie Lass-:He could not hide it, that laugh. He almost
choked on it as it frothed free of his barreled chest in husky tone.
Well...so much for this being an even engagement, or god forbid, something in
which he held the upper hand. The barrister was turning out to be a different class,
he needn't seduce her and she tried not with him. It was, by all means, a
clash of brain and wit. He preferred it of late, for even his lusty appetites
were beginning to wane with the debauchery that was English court. Still, he
did not immediately leave the confines of the shop. He was much enjoying the
heat of the fire in it's hearth even with his wool jacket, the English winter
was a cold wet thing that made him miss the Muslim states. Besides, let
her debate upon his reaction. In the end a matched sent of small, pewter
lidded bowls were selected. Their round shape would be a humored incantation
of her suggestion towards the state of his loins. They were a bit pricier than
he had wanted, but he had not the time to stand and barter with the thin
feminine man behind the counter. Wrapped in cheap fabrics to keep from bouncing
against one another and chipping, they were once again wrapped in satchel like
configuration to fit easily within his hand. How does one find someone that
wishes to be hidden, and yet readily available for such an invite? Why you
use your head of course, she fancied herself a spy at heart with all her
costumes and sneaking about. But she didn't make her living by it alone,
where as he...there was not a day of his life in which such was the matter of
life and death. His was a bee's line towards the more dense of the crowd, which
then split up into small sweeping glances of his eyes. Before another vendor,
no doubt smug with herself, she was spotted. Before her, on the somewhat put
off vendor's counter, the package would be set with much fan fair.:...Your
Bullocks Lady...

She seen him laugh, and could have sworn she heard it as it
echoed past the closed doors and windows to float over the crowd. Which it
didn't, a great imagination she did harbor within that ever toiling mind. She
couldn't help but grin as she watched. Head tilted slightly as she continued
to observe. She knew he'd find her, even if she did make him have to search.
He proved that point tonight quite clearly, this man was definitely one to
remain on guard with. She was still unsure if he was truly a friend or foe of the
cause. Watching as moments later he exited the store and began to look about
the crowd. Of course she wouldn't make it easy on him, always stepping behind
a group of individuals a few times before his nearness made that feat
impossible. It was then she simply stood there with that bit of a grin upon
lips. Brow lifted when he set the package down, eyes to follow the parcel. It
would be his words that had her blinking and look up at him, then she just
couldn't help it. Now it was her time to laugh, and heartily she did. No hand
to cover mouth in that demure nature as when in upper class establishments,
nor did she hold back on the release of her mirth. Hand lifted to wipe away the
tear created by the laughter just spent, then lowered to rub those cheeks
which had began to ache from the action. Amusement glimmered brightly within
those chestnut hues that now fixed upon him. "Impressive, and so quickly grown.
So much for my new monikered for you..." Oh, she would add to it before any
point was to be gained. "....Adelphia.." Playful nature of that smirk which
appeared, humor noted in tone. Reference to the Bonnie Lass would now come to an
end at this point. Until she finds just how much of a funny bone the man may
possess. Then the chase would come to an abrupt halt. "Now mind telling me
why you haunt my shadow this night?" Turning to face him as the parcel was
taken in hand, a bit surprised at their weight, a glance down for a moment.
"Brass balls at that, eh?" Okay, so she lied, she couldn't help it. Gaze
would rise to settle upon him once more. "....Oh, and the truth too. If you expect me
to put trust in you, then you better start by proving to me the same is
placed. Or else, we may have a bit of a problem." Said in such a sweet tone,
it would be hard to discern that she was now offering a bit of a threat upon
him. One thing you could always count on the courts for, was the vicious
gossip. Especially if it involved a member of the High Nobles. Chattering on
all levels, from the servants to the courtiers.

Advisor-:His smile was, surprisingly, genuine at both her
laugh and her humor. Though it faded to the stoic mask as she continued on,
such a silly girl she could sometimes be. It was that pride in her, the pride
where she could never admit to weakness nor attempt to appear weak. He
supposed it was a survival mechanism, to get where she was she had to have a
certain ruthless nature about her...or at least appear to have. She, however,
was threatening the Fox in it's den and she lacked the necessary bite. He would
let it sleep, it suited him to allow the image of him to her be a ill
practiced thing from time to time. Moments of brilliance, or viciousness were
tools he burned her with in some instances but her pride had been damaged
enough with his shadowing of her, for now. :...A pity, to hear you discuss
the metallurgic make up of my loins was becoming a quite entertaining
conversation and then you had to go and threaten me, I fear our relationship shall be slow
to recover...:Thinking, though the pause was more a thing so that he appeared
to be studying what lay before him and not actually holding an interest in
her words, or those he was conveying.:...Three subjects come to mind with
which we must immediately discuss, such discussions however are ill suited for
this location...You are not an ignorant woman, and you have surprising
skills. :He lavished compliments on her, for they were truth. What he was about
to show her either way, would still leave her unhappy. He turned from the
stall, and lifted hand as if to point out the distant, towering structures of
the finer part of town. A pity his words didn't achoe it.:...Urchin near the
seamstress on southern side has perfect teeth, and his a little too dirty.
Prostitute on the wharf itself is turning no tricks, and has not been
propositioned. The very same man has passed through this street five times, with
the very same package...:As if on cue, a fairly well dressed fellow carrying
a brown satchel beneath his woolen arm passed on the other side of the street.
His head turned this way, and that.:...Amateurs for the most part, and the
only few I could pick out in our short time here. You have to remember every
Wednesday the scraps are given out behind the castle and it is rather easy for
those who appear lowly to pass out what they have, so everyone is suspect. I
assume our small boy will be getting even wealthier for repeating what was
said, though nothing was. There are far to many interests in this city, from
far to many people local and domestic to come down to a bookstore in the
middle of the day in disguise, no matter your confidence. Hiding in plain
sight seems more functional...:In short he was telling her to knock off her
attempted cloak and dagger, it would confuse them more to have the Lady Carlotta
slumming it, then the Lady Carlotta dressed up. :..In our case however, I
shall escort you to my loft, and you may access the state of me, from balls
up...:His arm extended and pointing, fell instead to offer her a secure grasp. He
cared little for secrecy as to what he was, in fact he preferred some whispers
of secret meetings be spewed out as long as the contents were in fact,
secret. What he had to discuss with her would only be suited for a place he could
guarantee no listening ears.:


Brow rose slightly, not once did that amusement dull within
her soft brown gaze, nor did that bit of a grin as he went into his spill.
Slow shake of her head. "Which would be all fine and well by the light of
day, Sir Adolph. You know, as well as I, that by night a different creature walks
within the darkness. One may be well dressed, their teeth intact, and not
smell of sewers and fish, but they draw not the attention as one who prances
like a Dandy or Peathingy." The way this was being explained, it almost
sounded as if words of experience were being uttered. "Even a woman alone, is
over looked when the weight of a purse might grace one's hand." One thing you
could always count on about money in the darker classes, it ruled most of their
worlds. It was more often the prey the predator sought, and after such, only
then would physical release be sought. It was as if the act of stealing or
killing, aroused the individual as much as a stroking hand. "Easily I may be
spotted by a trained eye, but to other's, I'm most generally overlooked and
ignored." An admittance this was something done common place. For what
purpose would never be offered openly, nor anytime soon. Brow rose with his
statement and invite to his loft. "I've already got your balls held firmly,
Sir Adolph." Grin to grow a bit more as her hand rose to offer viewing of the
parcel she held that tight grip upon. Hand lowered still grasping the pewter
items, free to link with the offered arm. Turning to stand at his side,
awaiting his lead of direction. She wasn't naive in many ways, and knew any
discussion to be initiated would never transpire in the open market. She knew of those
ears that lurked about, in fact, there were a few she knew personally. A good
Barrister utilized all things to their avail, and if one had the wealth to
ensure loyalties remained, it put them ahead of the rest. Some were even more
than paid informants, friends on another level from another life. Hood would
be drawn forward to cast shadows upon features once more. Even if any would
offer whispers of this meeting, she would ensure the name of the woman would
be left unknown, a mystery woman that none could point out. Street Urchin
look was ruined by the way she took his arm and was lead through the streets
to their destination.

[Carlotta]

Her plans to head to the docks this night, had been thwarted
By the frigid cold of the wintry night. Instead, opting to stop off at the Ale House before continuing home. Seemed many had the same idea as she, not wishing to be walled up within their tiny apartments or homes. Many sought the tavern confines to gain warmth they otherwise had not, taking advantage as long as they could before being thrown out. It would be upon the comforts of a chair before the hearth's warmth, where she had settled for the night, a cup of tea entrapped between hands. Listening and watching, as had become the game she played. Many things can be learned if one chose to listen closely, for quite common was it to find the steady flow of liquor to loosen lips and spurn braggarts. Of course, the latter’s stories would be more than likely grand fabrications and twists that extended the boundaries of truth; but a small glint of truth there-in did lie, if the right person understood the information slimly The winds beyond the walls of the common, howled their fury as they drifted up from the Thames. Thick cover of clouds robbed the night of any natural light as well as spewing those crystallized formations from their belly, as a steady snow began to fall and add to that already accumulated upon the
ground.


Geddoe had not kept his promise to seek her out the night before, but he had gotten himself into something that just couldn't be put off. That didn't mean he didn't keep tabs on the woman though. Now that he knew she was in the area, it wouldn't be that hard to find out when are where she was going places. Besides, he knew Carly too well to be fooled by anything she might try to do to hide her whereabouts. So now that the time was right, Geddoe slipped silently into the Ale House, using what crowd cover he could to keep a low profile. Dark pools drifted around the establishment as he
moved inside a bit further. And then there she was. He grinned to himself slightly before carrying his frame in the direction. When Geddoe was close enough, a chair near Carly's was taken. He'd refrain from speaking to her for the moment, letting eyes gaze upon the fire and the warmth from it seep into his
chilled bones.


Cup lifted to sip from, and it was while focus was upon the room that movement in peripheral was noted; heading in her direction. Gaze to shift upon the nearing form, and although her smile was hidden by the lift of cup, it easily registered within those chestnut hues. She'd not glance in his direction when he first settled, instead continued that slow perusal before attention was drawn back to the fire. Cup slowly lowered to settle atop her lap, grasped between slender digit's hold. "Evening Geddoe." Softly stated in a voice that could be heard by himself, yet lost in the thrums of conversations and bantering taking place around them. A moment later focus
upon the fire would again shift, this time to settle upon the man now sitting at her side. Not uncommon was it for those who gathered before the fire to converse, so it'd be not out of the norm for such to transpire between them. His grin grew a bit wider when she spoke, though it would be a moment before he did so. Form leaned forward in the chair, elbows coming to rest upon knees and hands clasping together to rub against one another. Palms were open towards the flame for but a second and the rubbing began again. Head turned to face her then, and smiled softly, considering that they didn't need to hide as much as the other night. Geddoe nodded his head. "Evenin', Carly." Geddoe leaned back then, arms coming to cross over his chest. Dark hues studied the woman that he hadn't seen in a few years. "Beautiful as ever, if I say so me-self." A little wink was tossed her way.


Soft was her chuckle. "And the same charming rogue I see." Teasing lilt to her voice, amused glint within the warmth of those chestnut hues. "I'm delighted to see you again, as well as curious how you found your way here." Head tilted slightly. "Has our dear Mistress of the Sea arrived and failed to send me word?" He would know to whom she referred without having to utilize the name. This wasn't exactly the best land to even utter such, with the history now being added to the legends and lore of the notorious Reaper of the Sea. She would even glance about as if just a hinted uttering of the woman, would have the she-devil to suddenly appear through a door or
window.


Shoulders lifted into a small shrug. "What can I say, I be Geddoe." Though his soft expression turned to a harder one at the mention of the unmentionable. Head would shake slightly. "She has not, that I know of." He'd even follow the woman's gaze around the room, afraid of the same thing himself. "The last time I seen any of ya, was well over a year ago. Ya know me, it's hard ta stay in the same place fer too long." Eyes drifted back to Carly then, and he couldn't help but smile a bit again. It had been a long time, and it was rather unexpected to run into her, off all people, the other
night. He found himself leaning just the slightest in her direction.


"I know it's been awhile, my own travels had caused me to lose touch with many. Last time I seen her was almost six months ago. Though just before the heavy snows, I had gained word she was in a state of recovery." Attention would shift back to the man at her side. "It would seem her last venture left her with a couple mementos of lead being removed from her upper torso, and some new scars added by the business edge of a sword." She's seen the woman endure such before, and had no doubt on her survival, as long as the poison of the lead had not infected her blood. "I feel for those having to tend after her. Like a rabid badger she was in a state of wellness, can you imagine her like a wounded bear?"


A small chuckle escaped his lips at the last of her words. Shoulders rolled up and down again. "Tis the life she chose fer herself, ya know?" Geddoe would voice her thoughts, because he thought them too. "I have no doubt tha' she be alive though. Ta strong a woman ta die from a few pieces of lead and some scratches." A smirk crossed his lips then as his thoughts drifted off to the woman. She was someone he wholeheartedly respected, and he'd prefer to see her alive and well, not in a coffin for a burial at sea. He would decide to switch topics then, leaning a bit more towards her. "So tell meh 'bout yaself, what I been missin' since I been gone?"


A moment’s pause before she'd speak, though her smile would grow more. "I managed to get appointed as a Barrister to the King." Quite an honor it was, even if she had to fight to prove her worth daily against her male counter-parts. "Helping my father tend to the books of his plantation and private offices." Turning slightly to face him as she leaned against the back corner of the chair with her back in comfort. "How about you? Where did you wander off to? Many of us thought you perhaps to be dead." Playfully brows would furrow and eyes to narrow. "I'm not keeping company with a ghost, am I?" Trying her d**nedness to look suspicious, but hard to do when that grin refused to remain hidden, nor the amusement to gleam in soft brown gaze.


A soft whistle was given. "Movin' up in the world, are we? Well congrats on tha'." He'd give a very light little clap with his hands, not enough to drawn attention to them though. Then he almost burst into a full laugh at her next words, body shook slightly as he tried to control himself. "I be alive and well, Carly, trust meh." He offered his arm in direction. "Go on, give it a good poke, and see fer yaself." The amusement in her eyes were reflected back to her in his own.


And that she would, poke and pinch the smooth flesh of forearm. Slowly nodding. "Ai, you be quite alive." As her hand drew back, his would be captured to offer a gentle squeeze. "Such memories you bring with you Geddoe. Good times we've had in the day, I shall cherish every moment of them." Carefree and reckless they were, if her father had even an inkling of how his daughter spent those six years in hiding, he'd still be tanning her hide surely. "I guess that's why I'm drawn to the docks so often, trying to recapture but a moment of that."


When she took his hand, expression soften, his own hand giving hers a squeeze in return. "Tha' they were, meh friend, tha' they were." Head nodded softly before he would speak again. "People change, and so do the times...thin's ain' like they were just a few years ago." Eyes drifted to the fire a moment, then back to her. "Ta bad fer tha' though...they were quite fun, no?" Geddoe let out a small sigh.


"Ai" Stated softly with the release of her own sigh. "They were good times, no responsibilities did we have, but our wants and whims." Attention drawn back to the fire. "Rare is it I feel the sun upon my face, unless it bears through window. Long has it been since I've seen the sea by the light of day, having to steal away at the mid of night just to visit." Looking back over at him. "And that's not been without its complications. There are men who sailed here with me from the Swan, between them and the protection of my position, I rarely find time alone anymore." A gentle smile, yet it held a tint of sadness. "I've gotten what I've always wanted, what I dreamed of. All its done is made me now want to return to those days of old." Slow shake of her head and a light chuckle. "Now I see what men mean, a woman can never be easily pleased." Adding that teasing nature in there.


Head shook gently. "Sad it be, tha' ya never get ta go out upon the sea anymore. I think I migh' die if I couldn' do tha' me-self." Though his lips did crack into a small grin. "Never do one's dreams come true and they be happy with 'em. Unless of course, ya dream ends up bein' wantin' ta live on the sea. If tha' be ya dream, and ya get it....ya die a happy man." Geddoe shifted in his chair, bring one leg to rest over the other. "Or woman, as the case may beh." He'd reach for her hand again, taking it light within his grasp. "Come find meh when ya get tired of all this, Carly. We have history tagether...I can take ya out ta the seas again." The look in his eyes was nothing but serious.


"You have yet to answer me on what brings you to these shores, Geddoe." Quietly inquired. Cup lifted to finish the cooled tea it contained, then depositing the drinking vessel to the small table before them. Resting back he'd regain her attention as he captured her hand. A genuine smile to appear. "When I feel the need, I'll do just that." Head tilted. "The Swan II is set to rest in a cove not far, in case I should ever need her. Being lent to me in case I should need her. Many of the crew are employed on my father's plantation, or on the docks." It was then a brow lifted and a crooked grin appeared. "Salem is tantalizing my father with his culinary skills." Remembering the banter between Geddoe and Salem. It was better than any comedy to hit the live stage.


His grin grew bigger again. "I thought ya'd ferget 'bout askin' meh 'bout meh travels if I didn' speak of 'em." Then at the mention of Salem, eyebrows shot upwards some. "He's still around? I thought he'd get himself killed fer sure." Her hand was released and he leaned back into his chair again. "I missed everyone while I be away, even tha'...man." He chuckled, shaking his head. "Talk 'bout the good times..." Another sigh, and another shake of head. "I shoulda come back long ago, and it be meh fault fer not doin' so."


Release of her hand, it would be drawn back to rest atop her lap with it's mate. Softly she laughed. "He hasn't changed one iota either, just as lively and .... colorful, as ever." Again she'd laugh at his recent antics. "He was going to wear a gown to serve my father his supper one night. Not an easy task talking him out of it, I think my father would have dropped dead at the sight. Not to mention my mother perhaps swooning out of her chair." Although she had to admit, it would have been a sight to see. "So what kept you away?" Yes, she'd dig again. "I'm going to keep asking until you tell me Geddoe, so you might as well spill your guts now." Pretty smile.


"Yeah, tha' sounds like good ole' Salem." Body shook with quiet laughter. Then, oh no...the pretty smile. She knew he couldn't resist a pretty smile. Geddoe was like butter in a hot pan with one of those. "Fine, fine...Ta be honest, wha' kept meh away was the fact tha' I thought it be time ta find meh a new home somewhere else in the world. I guess I be like a lad leavin' his family fer the first time...thinks he can make it on his own, but comes runnin' back after a short while." He wiggled back into the chair some more, getting more comfy.


A blink of surprise. "You? ..... You were planning on settling down?" A moment's pause before she continued. "And you came here to seek this?" Knowing the history behind the last time she knew him to be here, and it was with Salem and a few others, tending to some nasty business. Wiping that memory from her thoughts. "So I take it you found not what you
wanted..." Slight lean forward. "..or have you?" Gleam in those eyes. "You got yourself a woman, or one in mind?"


He would give her a look of shock. "Is it hard ta believe that I be lookin' ta settle down some place? I mean, don' get meh wrong...I love the ocean, always will. When I die, tha's where I wanna be put, but look at meh, Carly. I be gettin' old." Sheepish grin then, he didn't like to admit that to himself. "And as fer findin' a woman, I don' have one at the moment, but I go' one in mind. Always have." Another wink was made for her as he leaned in a bit closer to mimic her.


Softly she'd laugh. "I just know how you are, Geddoe. One with the sea and all that, to learn you seek the land is a bit surprising. Not the settling down so much." His admittance he had one in mind did pique her curious nature. "Oh, do pray tell of this one who's captivated you so!" Leaning closer.


Geddoe had changed since the last she had seen him. He grew to appreciate the land a lot more than he once had. He gave a little cough at her question though, a hand lifting to rub the back of his neck some. "Do I have ta spell it out fer ya, Carly?" Eyes regarded the woman for a long time in silence, waiting to see if anything would click. She was a smart woman, so it shouldn't take that long.


Oh yes, she got it, and that coloration that touched her cheeks would be the tell tale sign. "Oh!" Light chuckle to sound. "So it's our loving Mistress of the Sea." Oh yeah, she'd joke it off, as was her way. Light chuckle, peeking over at him. "So what is it you came to London to seek? A ship? A home?" Knowing he hadn't come because of her, their meeting was by chance a few nights prior.


Geddoe would chuckle as well. "Yeah...her." He rubbed the back of his neck again, clearing his throat as he did so. "Really...I came back ta find a home fer meself. Like I said, I'll always love the sea and wha' it's done fer meh, but I think it be time I get solid ground under meh now and see where life takes meh." No, he hadn't come back for her, but there wasn't a day that had gone by that she hadn't crossed his mind. That little tid bit of information would be kept to himself for the time being though.


That gained him the warmth of her smile. "Both have their up sides, and down, Geddoe. Just have to find a way to enjoy both in one's life." A moment taken in thought. "Geddoe, in order to work with those heavy guns like you did, you do need to know black smithy skills, yes?" Curious glance his way.

A brow shot upwards at the quick change of conversation, though he would leave it be. "A little, in case somethin' went wrong with one of the guns." Geddoe wasn't very proficient in much of anything besides fighting, stealing, and.. well, 'loving', so to speak. Though, the days of running around with random women were far behind him. So to reiterate, he nodded. "A little."


"Well..." There was that look in her eyes, the one she got when her mind ran a million miles a minute. "Mister Tusker, the one who does all my father's work, and a few other's, had an unfortunate accident. He lost a hand. I know the position is open and I can get my father to endorse you for it." Smile began to form. "It's a fair wage for hard work, but it will keep your pockets from being empty, while you find what you're looking for." A moment in thought. "If I remember rightly, there's an apartment above too, that goes with the position. Nothing fancy I'm afraid, but I'm sure I can help you spruce it up some."


A smirk crossed his features. "Carly, I dunno if they'd be wantin' meh ta be doin' their stuff. I mean, I can try it out an see how it goes. I won' turn down a free job." A digit moved to tap his chin lightly in thought. That was a rather promising proposition, he'd probably end up taking it anyways.

"I'll get the letter of recommendation from my father tomorrow." In other words, she was going to write it up, and engage her father in conversation when it came to him signing papers for the Plantation and office. It's how she worked all the others, and it's been smooth sailing so far. "You're not obligated to remain so, if you find it not to your liking. It's a start at least." Slowly she'd rise from her seat, turning to collect her cloak off the back of her chair. "The forge is but a mile up the road from my
families place. At least it won't be a year in between visits this way." Teasingly stated as she began putting her cloak on. "I need to return home before they begin to worry and send someone to find me." There was still so much to talk about, and now they had crossed paths once again, they could.


Geddoe just nodded, the wheels in his own head turning. When she started to stand, he would as well. Hands came to rest behind his back, one inside of the other. "I'll let ya know how it turns out fer meh. I'm sure I'll be seein' ya around quite a bit more now." He'd then step towards her, closing the distance a little. One hand moved from behind his back rested on her shoulder. He wanted it to go to her cheek, but this was not the place, nor the time for that. A soft smile was given to her then. "I missed ya, Carly. I really did." Hand was removed and found its way behind his back again. Two steps were taken backwards and he would wait for her to leave, before he did so himself.


"It's good to see you again Geddoe, I look forward to spending time and catching up again." Warmly she'd smile. "Stiff wind in your sails and smooth sailing I wish for you, my friend." Softly stated. Gloves then pulled on as she turned to step away, a pause and glance back at him. "I can't wait to see the look on Salem's face when I tell him I ran into you." Leaving her departure with a playful note. Wink directed his way. "Good night Mister Geddoe." It was then she departed the Alehouse and entered the family carriage to take her home. She couldn’t help but to grin slightly, it would seem those of the sea were slowly infiltrating upon the land. If anything was to break out, no better men would she rather fight beside or be protected by if the time came. Scoundrels they very well may be, but to her, there were friends, comrades, and in many instances clients when they found their troubles with the law.