25. Smirk

Relda gazes around the courtroom. So many friends, even more enemies. So many pitying looks, even more snarls and hateful glares. But even more than any of that, Relda Grimm notices the deceit flying around, deceit that surpasses the injustice of the court. It's the deceit of trying to fool oneself. She sees it mostly in the form of arrogance. The haughty looks tossed towards one another in contempt or, if you're the sort, conspiracy. In this case, both.

But some catch Relda's eye more than others.

Puck. His smirk is one used only to mask inner feelings. Whatever they may be. A deeply sensitive boy, Relda knows. A hard shell to protect himself, especially from father-like figures. However, his smirk is not one that has anything to do with the Grimms' current situation in Mr. Canis' case.

Charming. The juror was undoubtedly hiding something, his smirk apparently being part of the act and the only way to elude suspicion. Besides, he'd never been too humble about anything, anyway.

Nottingham. Mayor Heart. Bluebeard. All falling into the category of conspirators with a burning hatred for the Grimm family, each one feeling superiority towards one another and everyone one else. And today their smirks actually hold water— they think they've won a victory. Well, Relda thought, they have something else coming. The game's not over till it's over.

Robin Hood. His smirk was a common layer tactic. Whirl the jury into a frenzy using self-confidence and abruptness, hoping to compensate for the lack of actual defense.

Judge Hatter's smirk. Of pure lunacy— probably not even realizing his expression is just so.

Jacob. His smirk was his shield. It hid all his hurt and insecurities.

But there was a question on her mind; what did this facial expression do for any one of these individuals? It was an odd question, for sure, even to her, but one she couldn't help asking herself. But did any of them gain something from always appearing self assured? All the arrogance being displayed nauseated her. Didn't they ever get tired of it? There were other ways to show she supposed it was one of those things they'd have to learn for themselves.

But she's not one to judge; it's one of those things they'll have to learn for themselves.

-Cat

Hey guys! Sorry for the wait, but we were busy. :) Anyway, first off, I'd just like to say, thanks to all those who nominated this challenge and Cat's one-shot "The Bagel." It means the world to us, really it does. And of course, as any writer would, I wouldn't mind if you'd like to vote for us again in the second round.

And with out any further ado, here are the question. Wooooh:

Last Question: If you could say anything to anyone right now, using no names, what would it be?

Best Answer: I found each of the answers very personal and emotional, if you are really interested, I suggest you go to the review box and look. :)

New Question: Considering there are only a few chapters that have left to be written, I would like to have a few ideas for who you would like to be in them. Any really odd characters that you think we might not have- or something you'd like to be in the chapter. Each time we use one of your ideas, there will be a shout-out to you in that chapter, so you have to make sure you keep reading :)

Oh, and just so you are kept up-to-date, I'm thinking of starting a new challenge soon. (That doesn't mean I'll leave you in a lurch for this one!) I was thinking about doing the Ipod Shuffle challenge, considering I love music...what do you think?

-Red