Coming to Terms.. (Feat. Lara Croft, Jackie Estacado, Sara Pezzini and Ian
Nottingham)
The now Angel of Darkness stood in the room having been given to her by Jackie at his Dojo. She was dressed comfortably in loose black pants and a dark blue tanktop. Irons straight auburn locks fell loosely about her shoulders, thoughts raged inside her mind. Never again would things be the same for Lara Croft. She knew this and had come to terms with it last night. She was always one to adapt quickly, and this situation was treated no different. Most of the day she had spent alone within the confines of her room, thinking. A part of it she had explored the Dojo further and found it rather nice, tranquil and relaxing to the senses. Now she sat on the bed in her room in meditation or so it seemed, however her mind was too full and to aware of things around her. Any sound made, any movement and she knew.
The morning was silent, not something very new to Jackie while he remained in the confinements of his Dojo but it seemed somewhat odd to him. Only because he wasn't alone in the Dojo. The essence of those that he hired and asked to stay in the Dojo was all he was used to, now Lara was inside and had stayed here. Much went down yesterday... a lot of what he still probably hadn't even registered into his mind. Everything went wrong yesterday... there wasn't any good in his mind that came about his having experienced the war inside of Irons' Estate. He figured he'd go explore now. It was time for him to pay Lara a visit. He had been expecting her to show up to his room but she had did no such did, which was slightly peculiar since she was the type to be nosey and see what was going on around her... at this moment, the entire Dojo. Or if she had done so, she only observed and said nothing and to no one. His steps fell silently upon the ground. Her place of location wasn't too far from his own and this was done on purpose. He'd need to personally keep an eye out for her, since she was constantly put at risk He actually couldn't remember a time when she just went an entire day without some random act of violence coming from her or someone else in her presence. Jackie's wrist slowly turned as he would open the door to her room up.
Deep breaths left the seemingly once again perfect physique of Lara Croft, her long legs had been folded into an indian style, her long arms resting limply across them. Hazel orbs were hidden behind thick closed lashes and an overly calm look was across her features. Bare feet rested against the white liniens of the bed as she set near the middle of it. The Brit was rather a bit shocked that he had not come to see her sooner then now, but then again Jackie had probly expected her to pay him the visit. Not this time, she had too many questions she needed to figure out for herself and ask of herself. The brown and green splashed irises were now visable as she heard the door click, indeed he had come to her. Lara figured as much soon he would. Night was near, she could feel it in her very being now, there was a sigh a long exhale of air," You took longer then I expected." He would understand the meaning behind the words spoken in that still aristrocratic accent from Surrey, England as it's owner now stared at him, eyes full of life, questions a slight emptiness and an eerieness aswell.*
His eyes examined her features. The Darkness had taken away all the phyiscal pain from her outside features but he could feel the mental pain that had been added. It seemed as if a burden had now been placed on her, one that she wasn't ready to take on but he all too well knew how that felt and look at him now. He had turned out the best he could have. But then again... he was a slightly troubled person all the time. His body maneuvered over to her bed, stopping at the right side of it before he could settle himself onto it somewhat, leaning down with one arm supporting him. He was leveled now with her, still taller but leveled nonetheless. He said nothing to her comment of his timing... there was nothing for him to say about that. He could've joked on it but he could feel the seriousness in the air of the room. Lara's aura had been changed. Her new gift having brought them to a closer understanding, or rather helped Lara to further understand him by first understanding what she was now. He looked her straight in the eye and tried to read what he could, a cloud having been placed over her, one that was previously not as thick... "What is it that your searching for now? I may not have all the answers but I may know the answers to whatever it is your trying to figure out. "
She was never one to visably cry, infact the only time she ever did and it was obvious was on the date of her Father's death, the fifteenth of May. That was never a good day, and it never would be. A part of her being wanted to cry, but the other part, the strong part simply would not allow it. Lara had lost her family, her friends, life as she once knew it was pretty much dead and gone now. Alot of these thoughts was due to the fact she had almost gotten happiness in death, she had almost held the two things she longed for the most inlife, but inlife they were once again torn from her grasp. In silence she stared at Jackie without emotion at first. Could he see her inner struggle now? Was her thoughts and actions that readable, so it seemed as he spoke. Soon a sense of mixed emotions over came her. Should the Brit feel anger towards this man for doing what he deemed right? Or should she be thankful? It was all too much to take in right now, with mental motions she pushed these things to the back of her mind. Yes, Lara was running from problems again in a sense," I'm searching for alot of things right now Jackie." Idly she wondered what all did he know about her? The thought of asking him pressed and nagged at her," Hm. What do you know about me? Do you know that last night I was almost complete? Indeath I almost found happiness that in the end really could never be?" Her body shifted, knees drawing up against her frame as long arms wrapped around them her chin now resting atop her knees. Silence again, for a few moments before she spoke once more," I don't know what to think..what to feel.." Could it be for the first time in the woman's life she felt vunerable and was expressing it? In a way yes, but also in a way she felt lost and confused," Nothing will be the same anymore. A part of me still died last night." She looked away now, obviously fighting tears. If he knew her aswell as he seemed to Jackie would understand how hard it was for Lara Croft to show emotion, esspecially the ones she was feeling now.
His body slid back more and more, his movements very gradual and slow. He would eventually end up right next to her, the distance between them both cut short. He didn't look her in the eye any longer, he didn't want to try and read her any more than he already had. It did pain him to see her like this but what could he do about it? He in truth didn't know as much about her as he would've thought he did, her question proving this to himself. When she curled herself up, he moved himself behind her and basically covered along her form, this would eliminate the possibility of him seeing her unless she uncurled and turned herself to face him. He didn't want to see her this vulnerable. He already could feel it but he didn't want to know by her expression how much pain she was dealing with. She told him that she was almost complete... he knew not what that had meant in all actuality but the little he knew from factual documents was that she, like him, had no parents to console with. He had figured she meant that was almost there in death with them and he had taken this from her... "I'm sorry Lara... I just did what I thought was right. I Just... couldn't watch you die there."...He felt bad for his actions but didn't exactly know if she was angry with his actions or happy in heart that she still lived. His arms came to wrap around her form, a form of physical comfort from him was all he could do now. She would have to work out her feelings on her own. He would be there for her throughout the time it would take her though. A question had come to mind now as he continued to wonder. Why did she fight so hard to hide the emotions she felt. Even around him, she wouldn't let up and just once show a signal of weakness. His face touched against her cheek as he motioned his head forwards more... "You know, your still human... No one's perfect... Why do you hide your true feelings? What's holding you back? I don't think anyone besides me has gotten this chance to see you even this vulnerable."
He came around and behind her, his arms coming around her. The woman in her, the fact that she was simply a woman and human came into play and she leaned back into him. No one had really ever held her in moments like this, seemly no one had probly dared too even think of such a thing. A sigh escaped her, it seemed to come from her very core and a single tear did fall rolling down her satin tanned cheek. She didn't move to wipe it away. Lara was discovering more then ever know what Jackie had said. Still human, she had always been just human and she always would be.A bit of a sad smile crossed her full lips," I've never claimed to be perfect you know." A bit of a chuckle, still the same old Lara in the end. Seriousness once more over took her being as her head rested back against his shoulder arms coming to rest about his, which laid around her," I don't like to feel weak, let alone vulnerable." Hazel orbs shut now, lips pursed a moment in thought," It's.." A bit of a huff it seemed this was hard for her to explain," Feelings, emotions they are my downfall. Everytime in my life I have ever conveyed an emotion or a feeling something gets mucked up. So I decided to simply stop feeling or rather ignore it." Her tone seemed dry, she did not want to admit this to anyone at all, but in a way she felt like she had to that maybe getting it out would help. It did, but it didn't. She shook her head slowly," If you think I'm angry, I'm not." Eyes openned again," I could never be angry with someone who cares." The last sentance came as a whisper barely autible.*
A smile shown on his face... She was letting up a bit. For the first time in who knows how long. He doubted that she had been this way for a long time with another person having been present if she had even ever been this way in front of another at all. His left hand would slide up her arm then lightly wipe the single tear that came from her eye. He kept the smile along his features... Her aura was clearing a bit, the process would be slow but he was a very patient man when it came down to these situations. He would further show his compassion towards her by kissing the spot where the tear was wiped. Both his hands covered and held her's, finger intertwined and locked. He would now close his eyes and allow her to rest against him. A response was then given to her comment... "Your right, you never said you were perfect... I just thought you were."... Jackie would never change, no matter the situation he would always add his little smooth comments. He would then continue to give her his full attention, listening the words that came from her mouth, picking up on even the slightest change in her breathing as each word flowed out. Her feelings captured inside each word that passed through her lips... "Don't worry about things going bad between us... I don't think any of the other guys cared for you as much as I do. Express yourself... it's what keeps the relationship going. I think that's why your other relationships won't compare to ours."
His gentle touch seemed relaxing, it seemed to almost fill long since empty gaps in her life. Though many of those gaps would never be filled at all. Eyes closed a moment, she seemed surprized that such compassion could come from such a man indeed. Jackie never ceased to surprize or amaze Lara at all. Prehaps this was part of the reason she was attracted to him, the other factors being he could keep up to par with her and kept her on her toes. The closeness was all to nice, too perfect and she did not wish to do anything at all to break it. A smile now once more produced itself across her full lips," Hm. You can always seem to make me smile.." And even the times they had went head to head in battle, somehow, some way he did indeed make a flicker of a grin or a full smile cross her features. Lara listened to him in silence and nodded briefly," Prehaps." Indeed he was probly right," Must you always hit the proveribal nail right on the head?" She shifted now, turning to face him long legs curling behind her," Relationships are two way streets Jackie Estacado." She looked him in the eyes now," And as the saying goes share and share alike." Lara was not about to be the only one to express true feelings," I can tell you got something biting you in the arse, something you want to say or prehaps even show." She studied his chistled features now beyond them outside the sun was slowly sinking behind the skyline as the Brit awaited an answer of some sort from the man.
A smirk set on his face, the usual smirk he did at times like these. Jackie was a complex man indeed. There were many sides to this man besides simply just the one he put on for the public eye. In public he was just a hitman.... nothing more. But when one got him in private, other sides to his personality would reveal itself, some taking longer than others to bring themselves out. Lara was one of the few to see a side of him rather than his public image. But she was the first to actually see him the way he is now... His smooth nature was what usually prevailed over all other keys characteristics that made up his personality... "Well, it's my job to keep you happy. I figure if Lara's not happy then no one's happy."... He chuckled a bit then squeezed her hands lightly... "Oh, and of course... I'm a marksman remember, I don't like to miss unless it's on purpose. As far as relationships go... "there are two streets... One street leads to a happy life and the other street usually leads to break ups. I've already chosen my path."... he let her go and leaned backwards, sustaining himself balanced by the positioning of his hands on the bed. His upper body flexed as he did so, and basically showed off since he never usually wore a shirt unless he was leaving the Dojo. No shirt was needed in a place like this where he would rest and practice his martial arts. She was now being weird... As he could read her so easily, it seemed that she could also do the same now. Maybe the further they build a bond, the better they would get at knowing each others thoughts and feelings. Obviously so, since no one was usually able to read what he was thinking.... Ever. His eyes looked down then finally came back up... "Your pretty good... I guess there is something I want to say but... I'm not sure how to go about saying it "I'm kinda like you in the sense, my feelings are usually balled up... I've let them out to you but this particular one is a little complicated.
Hazel orbs watched him, took in his movements, his expressions. Intruth he was indeed very expressive with certain things, other things he was like an ancient text unknown. However, give the Archeaologist time and she would decode the said text and read it too. She laughed, it was the first laugh she had really allowed to happen since last night with Irons. It felt good, good to feel another emotion besides heartache and angst. Lara knew Jackie had not shown this caring side to many if not any at all. She felt privaliged indeed, and also in a since releived that he trusted her so," Yes, yes a happy Lara is a good thing." A cheeky grin pressed across her features," A mad Lara gets people killed, usually." But of course Jackie had probly indeed realized this aspect about the woman," You do your job very well." A mocking tone, teasing. Same old Lara. She was slowly discovering that despite being now part of The Darkness, that she was indeed still the same person only with a darker image now. An Angel of Darkness indeed. Serious again, she shifted between the moods quickly. A nod," Yes there is." He was logical aswell? Again Jackie never ceased with surprises. He also moved rather fast once his mind was set on something," I know you did, funny thing really most men take along time to chose their paths with me, the ones who know me and how my nature is." But of course Jackie was once again highly aware of this indeed. He seemed aware of everything. She sat still and silently inplace, greenish-brown pupils beheld him and his obvious power and strenght. The fact he just might be stronger then her gave Lara a sense of safety if you will. Afterall she is indeed a woman no matter how strong and tough she claims or is, all women need safety in the end. She nodded, understanding more then he probly figured," I know, but prehaps if it was said a proverable weight would indeed be lifted from your," Eyes grazed over his form slowly," Shoulders." Eyes focused on the man's face once more, trying to read him, figure him out as he was still in ways a mystery to her.
He was in heart and mind very happy to see her finally get back to being the same old Lara she always was. No matter what happened, he couldn't look at her any differently because to him she would always just be the same Lady Lara Croft he had met before. No matter what new powers she had... "Well... I like to make my work enjoyable."... he slid a hand back a little further, forcing himself to lean even lower. Eyes remaining on her figure. He had a quick thought... something that amused him a little. He felt the urge to let out what he was thinking... "Now I'm wondering, Are you not used to being just about half naked? Don't ask me why I ask this... your image last night came to mind. And I can't help but say that you looked good enough to eat yesterday."... He grinned then removed the weight of his body off of his arms. His back now pressed against the bed totally. His grin didn't last too long, the seriousness in his eyes returning but it wasn't so much a bad thing but rather showing that what he was thinking about and didn't want to say was something he'd felt was very pressing and important. But for her, he'd try it out... "What I want to say is something that's been bugging me for a while... You may already know this but..."... he paused in between say the rest... 'Same effect as last time'... "Well... Lara, I Love You."... he got it out finally... it came out loud and clear, which was what he wanted to make it. His love for her was out in the open and now she would know if she hadn't already picked up on it before, the last time he almost slipped and said it was enough evidence.
A brow arched," Well if it's not enjoyable why keep doing it I say." A hazel orb winked at him," Though sometimes it does becoming tasking I'm all to sure." A sheepish grin over took her features, Lara had always been fully aware that she was a difficult woman indeed. The eyes almost narrowed in a playful manner as she looked at him, a suttle change in the color, they were growing green," Let's just say this much, how Sara does it without blushing at least mentally I'd love to know." The once hazel orbs had taken on that same glowing luster in green from last night after he had risen her from the dead. Silence. She was stuck within it completely for the moment and for the longest time she stared at him, shadows playing about the room now one falling across her making just her eyes visible. Love her...someone loved her? And had said so?!?! She seemed lost in her own world of thoughts for a moment indeed, she had figured him actually saying it wouldn't shock her, but it had. Then she smiled, it wasn't very noticable, but she did so. On hands and knees now, she crept forward across the bed almost in a stalking like manner before stopping next to Jackie, hands resting on either side of him now and knees off to one side," I knew. I just wanted to hear you say it." The eerie glowing pupils studied the blue ones below them now as silence fell once more apon them.
Watched as the rooms dimmed amount of light would fade even more with the dropping of the sun. Jackie didn't mind the dark of course, he rather preferred it more than being in the sun. He was still a bit surprised that he told her what he had. Love wasn't always something he admitted to outright and I bet Lara was feeling the aftershock of his words too. That wasn't something he knew she would expect. He figured that since she was with him here and now, that no one else had declared their love to her and proved it. Jackie had proved it enough already... He did bring her back from the dead didn't he? The darkness of the room allowed him to view the new Lara. Her glowing eyes enticed him very much. He wanted to do something but there was always something that held him back. But he was a man of course so fighting the urges were harder than he'd expect and now it almost seemed that Lara was taunting him. His hands came up and placed along her hips... "Your starting to say things I would..."... he was implying to her comment on wanting to hear him say it, of course. By the time He spoke, she'd be near face to face with him. So Jackie placed his hands massaging along her thighs, tracing along from place to place.
She still smiled, it was visable to him now seeing as they were so close. The mass of straight auburn locks casscaded over each shoulder, the encredible lenght of her hair casing it to dance as she moved across his bare chest lightly. Eyes took care of passing across his features, the lines of his mouth the way they wrinkled just slightly when he grinned or smiled. The way his blue eyes danced just a little when she said something sarcastic or pleasing to him. Should she reply? Say it aswell, what she indeed feel for the man below her? Yes, yes she should," And I.." And he thought it was difficult for him to say," love you." there it was said, it was done with valor aswell as he had done unto her. She was comfortable in the dark, afterall not all tombs have light nor could one always carry light into them. Plus, she was quick to adapt anyhow. Lara wasn't meaning to taunt the man if she was, but she was rather enjoying his closeness all the same. His touch was still just as thrilling as before, she wondered was his kisses aswell? Would they possibly be more so? One way to find out," Hm. That so?" She grinned now, eyes flashing just slightly. The Tomb Raider was rather beginning to enjoy this power she now had, it coursed through her veins like a strange elixor. It was life, afterall with Jackie's help it had indeed given her life once more and with that act he indeed proven to her that his love was true. She lowered her upper frame to rest against him now, but leveling her head just above his, fingers playing with his semi-long black hair. Silence was always nice when you had someone like yourself to share it with. The glowing orbs dissapeared behind fluttering lashes as slightly parted lips met his softly, barely a touch really, but enough. Yes, just as thrilling indeed.
New York City, Manhattan Homicide Department The newly reinstated Detective Sara Pezzini was in her office. For years she used to complain that it was cramped and stuffy, but today it seemed so empty. The brunette had been sitting at her desk since early morning, not bothering to get up and turn the lights on. The only illumination that streamed in was from the main floor, it filtered though the partially open horizontal blinds working heavy shadows over her hunched body. She stared over to Jake's desk and the few forgotten items he had left on its surface. He was always tidy. just like Michael. Unlike her desk and it's menagerie of paperwork and tidbits. In her absence Jake had cleaned everything. even the train wreck that was her desk. She wouldn't have been surprised if he went so far as to wash the windows. The corkboard was clear of it usual roster of crime scene photos, and every file was away in their proper place. Sara felt as though she had been gone for years. Her hands rolled Jake's coffee cup that stated I'd rather be Surfing! between her palms as she found herself lost in grief. "Yeah. me too." Sara muttered after re- reading the porcelain cup. Her boss Lieutenant Joseph Siry knocked on the reinforced glass of her door, before entering. "Hey... oh. I didn't realize you were still here." He waited for Sara to acknowledge his words and after a few awkward minutes of silence he continued, ".I was just coming in to get a few things together for McCarthy's family.." Pezzini put the mug down onto her blotter and stood. The chair's wooden legs rattled against the Formica tiles cutting the silence. "Joe I appreciate all that you've done to help out. It's not easy when one of your own goes." Sara walked to the door and her boss. He placed a strong hand on her shoulder, and stopped her from leaving, "Sara, you know you're like a daughter to me. I want you to take a few days off. You're job will be waiting for you when you come back." The detective nodded a bit, "Thanks." She simply stated walking out. Green eyes cast out toward the main floor and it throng of activity. Phones were ringing, paperwork being shuffled, and yet as Sara walked past toward the exit, the noise dimmed as most of her co-workers empathized with her mood. She got a few nods and looks of comfort, but her face remained stoic and unchanged. Out in the night air, Sara's heavy leather jacket caught the warm breeze, revealing the plain white t-shirt she was wearing. Her heavy boots carried her down the sidewalk an army tote bag over her shoulder. Her destination was clear. Get her bike, and get out of town. at least for a while. After forty five minutes of walking Detective Pezzini was standing before the main grounds of Hell's Kitchen. Her eyes scanned to the camera poised in the crook of a tree as she waited for a guard or something to talk to her though the small metal box and open the main gate.
Jackie's brow was raised as he listened to Lara's words. Was she about to do what he thought she was? He said he loved her and was true about it, but he didn't feel the need for her to say it back or even respond on it. He just wanted to let her know that the love was their. But she went above and beyond what she normally would do. She said the fabled words back to him. The silence was built from there on. A moment between two lovers was developing. His left hand started to glide up, fingertips brushing on her butt and sliding across her shirt till finally placing themselves onto her cheek. He was of course good with his hands and knew exactly how to rub his woman the right way. Her kiss gave him a chill, they both were good kissers but her kiss to him now seemed to have much more in it than the last time they had expressed feelings for one another. Maybe it was just in his mind... or was it that love made everything they did that much better? Jackie's lips at first brushed against her's the kiss very minor, till he pushed up a little and gave her a complete kiss. After this kiss, his lips would guide downwards, smooches place from her mouth downwards till he got to her neck. He'd massage that area now with his lips. Both hands now made to run throughout her entire form. Things were fun and games now but little did he know that they would soon have an unexpected visit.... Miss. Pezzini herself. And Jackie had seemingly made reservations for her to stop by, so the guards would allow her inside if she came.
Silence. Darkness. Love. Such interesting things when all together in the same room. Jackie's touch was electric, alive, it sent tiny shivers about her muscles which quivered and jumped beneath his smooth hands when they came across her form Her own fingers felt the desire to roam, the slender ten figures discovering every strand of hair on his head, then the contores of his strong face. His kiss was met with the same emotion he gave into his. Never had Lara felt so alive it seemed the power they both now possesed thrived from the lovers and they from it. The tips of her fingers dance lightly down to his shoulders before going back up once more buring them within his mass of dark hair. She did not want him to stop. Never ever. Her mind became numb as his lips caressed the soft skin of her neck," Mm." Such a man indeed Jackie Estacado is. The action causing her head to tilt to the side ever so slightly, her lips to be near his ear now, she placed a lingering kiss apon the lobe her breath warm against it and the side of his face as she rested against him. The glowing orbs remained hidden for now, though her lashes slit open and a small glow did peer out into the dark atmosphere of the room. His lips were like a dark magic in themselves and their owner knowing just how to work the spells. Silently Lara wondered if this kept going could they stop themselves before it began to go to far? She figured they would both have a rather hard time stopping if it got anymore heated. But a part of her did not want to stop either, however she knew they would have to none the less.
"Do you have an appointment?" crackled a voice though the com. "No. Just tell Estacado that Detective Pezzini is here." She offered. The voice cut back in, "You've been expected." The twin irons gates opened with the groan of mechanics and Sara walked up the cobblestone drive. How many times had she and Jake done routine patrol here? The brunette walked carrying her few belongings $ 224.00 (what was left in her bank account) in her pocket. Her apartment was still in a shamble, but she had gathered a few things and exited without dwelling on the fact that her rent was due, or that the air- conditioning was still on. She neared the oppressive front door and was greeted by a few Armani suited mobsters waiting in the vestibule. With a sullen face she looked to the one who had allowed her access, "Don't worry, I left the badge at the door. Just tell him I here to pick up my bike." She shifted the pack on her shoulder and when one of them offered to take her things she shook her head. "Thanks. I got it." Her green irises narrowed a bit as she shifted the pack more securely onto her shoulder. Sara glanced out the window to the lowering sun and her heart sank. She didn't want to deal with the Darkness right now. Hell she didn't want to deal with anything right now, but on a cop's salary she wasn't getting far without her vehicle. The newly changed Witchblade rested on her right wrist, it's white/silver metal concealed by the tattered sleeve of her jacket Scraps of the lining draped over her fingertips. This was her spare jacket an old favorite from college, the new one had been decimated a few weeks earlier by the ripping tendrils of the blade. The somewhat overweight mobster neared her, the stench of cheap cologne caught her scent. Sara guessed it was Hi-Karate or impostor Calvin Kline. "Look lady I wasn't asking ta be nice. I need ta know if you're packing heat." Sara allowed herself to get searched, dropping the bag. "Hey lookey what we got here!" He lifted her snub nose .357 between his pudgy fingers, then the Walther PPK from the rear waistband if her jeans. "So you say this is a social call huh doll? What-da need all this hardware fer then huh?" Sara wasn't in the mood to deal with this shit right now, and she didn't' fight back when the stocky man pushed her back against the wall.
However, Ian was certainly in the mood for a fight tonight. He had been trailing Sara all day, and he didn't especially like it when Sara was pushed back up against the wall. Ian made it over the wall with a single solitary leap, not bothering with the front security at all. With a vicious kick knocking the man back, Ian puts himself between the man and Sara, looking to him. "The lady is just here for her bike. I suggest you give it up." He states, his eyes not flinching off the man's who had pushed her up against the wall. The guard looked to him, and his eyes widened. "You- You're the one that was here a couple of days ago." Ian simply smirks and nods at the comment. "Indeed, I was. Now, the detective would like her bike. Please procure it." He says, as he manages a glance back to Sara.
They had indeed stopped themselves before things got anymore heated. Next time though Lara wondered if they would be able to or not? But of course they would have too, however when would just the petting and kisses become not enough for Lara? Somehow knowing Jackie he would find ways to indeed please her. She had decided to leave her room now and go out into the world once again, staring out her window as Jackie left for some business he needed to attend too. The way he talked it was business for the Mafia, he would be fine, he return to her later. Turning away from the moon light and the figure slipping away into Darkness, Lara asended downstairs into and interesting scene. The men looked up at her as she entered," Lady Croft, how good to see you." She nodded briefly to the gaurds. Eyes still glowing green as the fixed on a familar face, two to be exact," Sara." A smile crossed the Tomb Raider's lips as she moved fully into the room, but also keeping her distance. The glowing orbs flitted to the men," Go get her bike please and leave us." Lara now had power in the Dojo being an Angel of Darkness. The men nodded and obeyed giving Sara back her gun," Never question my friends in that manner again or I'll have a talk with Mr Estacado." The man who had taken Sara's gun nodded sourly and left," I'm sorry about that." Her smile was happy, and yet also slightly sad as she stood there hair loose and flowing in her loose black pants and deep blue tanktop wondering what would happen now..would Sara try to kill her? Would Nottingham? Would either even speak to her now? She waited, all she could really do.
The brown haired detective sighed, at the sudden intrusion from Nottingham this was not the best time for violence. She was at a saturation level by this point. "Look. I'm not here to make waves, I don't care if you have to have to perform a full body search on everyone that walks in here, I just want what's mine." She turned and glared toward Ian. "And I don't' need your help." Sara picked her weapons off the ground and unloaded their bullets. Tucking the clip and bullets into her front pants pocket and then placing the hand cannons back into their holster and the band if her jeans. "Just call who you have to call, I'll be waiting outside. you got plenty of help here." She eyed the remaining gangsters and stooped to pick up her bag. Her head turned up to the voice of the Tomb Raider. "You look right at home here. I'm just here to pick up the Buell. don't worry I'll be out of your hair in a few minutes." She didn't smile, it was apparent that she hadn't slept; her eyes were hollow and lifeless and her skin was pale. Too much coffee, not this time. Sara nodded again, "the funeral is on Sunday. should I leave my dance card open for one more?" It was a deliberate dig toward Lara, irrational and very below the belt, and as she spoke it she regretted it. This wasn't her decision, Jackie did this to her.. And to Jake.
He looks between both people, as he looks to Sara, hearing the comment about not needing help. He wanted to be there for her, and to be able to comfort her, but she wouldn't let him in that way, so he was forced to just watch her back. He winced slightly at the insult from Sara towards Lara, as he looks to Sara. "Sara, she didn't have a choice as to what happened. You can't blame her for something that she didn't do. You have every right to be upset, but at least aim the shots for those who deserve it most." He says, looking back to Lara, momentarily. "It is good to see you well." He says, leaving it just at that for her, deciding not to press anything farther than he was absolutely going to have to. It was certainly a weird time for all of them right now.
Eyes fell, a frown swept across her features and her head fell in shame," So, this is how it's going to be then?" Once again the glowing orbs lifted and stared at her now possibly former friend,partner and sister figure," I will be there, I cannot speak for Jackie however." She would make him go wither he liked it or not., " I really am sorry Sara." The roar of a motorcycle hit her ears," No matter I will always remain your friend." Another tear snuck and trailed down Lara's cheek, had she gone soft? No, she was deeply hurt, but not surprized at all," And no, this isn't really home it never will be, but this is where I belong now." Eyes closed a moment, to admit this Lara should be happy, but she wasn't," He loves me." The Raider bit her lower lip the nervious habit still remained. Eyes flashed open, was Ian Nottingham sticking up for her? A smile was given to him," Same to you Ian." A sniffle, this was hard for the Brit indeed. She wiped the moisture from her shining eyes and fixed her gaze on the Assassin," Take care of her for me please." Lara undoubtly meant Sara," No matter how much she pushes you away or denies it, but she needs someone to look after her and I can't...I wish I could, but I can't." Her voice quivered, trembled even in emotion. The Darkness within her though not activatied without Jackie around seemed to make her emotions more open and alive, she could no longer hide them anymore," Take care both of you." Lara didn't know what else to say and prehaps there really wasn't anything else to be said," I'm sorry." But just that.
Now she was getting pointers on etiquette from Nottingham?! He was right... damn him he was right. Her gaze softened a bit as she looked to Lara. A flash of memory caught her mind of the blonde surfer leaning his elbow out of the unmarked squad car. He was rubbing the back of his neck and sporting a sheepish grin as he almost embarrassingly said, 'Aww man you mean Lara's in town an I'm stuck here on duty? Hey Pez. have fun and tell Lara I said hi." an honest blue eye winking to her. Jake didn't deserve this, hell Lara didn't deserve this. "I'm glad to be able to look you in the face and hear your voice. I'm glad I didn't have to zip up a body bag, but it's all I can do to not allow this thing (gesturing to the Witchblade) to rip you apart." She cast her glance to Nottingham. "You're right. losing a partner isn't that big of a deal, after all, I should be used to it by now huh?" The dig was uncalled for, but her unfounded bursts of fiery truth was simply her way of deal with pain. Sara turned to leave. "Later Sis, Ian."
He sighed softly, as he looked to her. He hadn't meant anything like that when he was trying to help her. It seemed like all he was doing was digging a ditch for himself, with Sara. "Sara, you know that's not what I meant." He says, thinking of how irrational she was being right now. She had every right to be , but it didn't make things any easier. Doing this was only making it harder on everyone else. Of course, it had been a personal shot to him, because he had shot her first partner, Michael Yee. He wasn't going to make excuses for it, but he was going to try and deal with it. "Sara, wait up." He says, as he starts to move after her.
Lara nodded," I know Sara, tis why I'm keeping my distance." The Brit figured they were now mortal enemies," I wish I could hug you but I cannot." Her voice was sad," I can't even implicate it with the Darkness unless Jackie is around me, which he's out at the moment." A deep breath was taken," Sara be careful, write to me if you can." A sad smile and the flood gates opened now as the glowing green orbs seemed to almost sparkle like a jade gem as each tear left them," Follow her Ian, keep her safe if you really love her like you have said then nothing will stand in your way." Lara had a new respect for love now, it was why Jackie had brought her back," And I'm sorry for always being so nasty to you, it wasn't your fault the way you are it was Irons'." A sad smile among the tears," Try to be your own person Nottingham for once you're not a manservant, but just a man." She watched the woman, her friend walk away, her fingers came to rest against her lips as she blew a friendly kiss to her departing friend's back," Goodbye Sis." Lara could barely speak the words as she fell to the stairs next to her and rested against the railing now crying. She was breaking apart at her seams emotionally, letting out what seemed to be years and years of inner turmoil and bottled up pain.
She clenched her jaw and set to work hardening her heart. Suck it up Pez. push it all down until you're numb, close it off. It was how she dealt with pain. She walked to her bike in the drive and straddled it. Helmet-less Sara tucked the bag over her shoulder and took off without looking back to the pair. With a thundering of the powerful Harley Davidson made engine, Detective Pezzini left Hells Kitchen. She maneuvered the bike toward her usual bar to get a drink. to get a lot of drinks. The traffic was steady, and she drove slowly following the traffic laws to the letter. It was clear that the helmet-less detective wasn't in any mood for joy. She realized that Jackie loved her friend. the murderer and the Tomb Raider, it was hard to imagine. It wouldn't stop her from doing her job. Estacado was going down for murder one, and Pezzini bided her time as the forensics teams worked. She was glad that Siry had given her some time off, but a girl with a little over two hundred dollars couldn't go very far from her problems, save the bottle. Parking the bike in the small parking lot, Sara walked toward the door with cold deliberate steps.
They were on different sides now, still friends in spirit however. But in all truth Lara knew Jackie had murdered Jake and Sara would do all in her power to put him behind bars, and the Brit being on the bad side of the coin now would have to stand by her man and go against her friend. Tears were slowly dried, a sniffling English woman sat on the stairs inside staring out a left open door into the outside world, sometimes it felt now like it stared back. The dark had a face and Lara could see it. Creepy, but also fasincating none the less. bare feet pressed against the plush rug on the stairstep under them. The Dojo's staff would pass her by saying nothing usually, or asking her if she wanted anything the answer was all the same," No. I'm fine thank you." And with a shaking of their heads the staff would move on," As you wish Lady Croft." Lara found it odd that they were unalarmed by her glowing green eyes, but then again she was sure that these people who worked here were used to strange happenings and occurances. After a while Lara decided as another person a woman walked passed she did indeed want something," Scotch please." The woman arched a brow," A shot or.." Lara waved her hand," The whole ruddy bottle if you will." The woman nodded," Yes Lady Croft." The Brit knew going to the bottle would not solve her problems or bring comfort, but at least it would dull her senses for a while. Soon the woman returned and handed her the bottle," Thank you." The reply to Lara was simply a nod. Lara knew the woman did not want to give her the liquor, but did so anyhow as she had stated to Jackie earlier, an unhappy Lara gets people killed usually a happy Lara was your best bet.
After he had left most of the night had been spent with Dimitri in the bar, drinking until he'd been dragged back to his flat. The morning after he'd woken with a hang over, and his leg and arm sore from the night prior. Stretching out he sat up and looked around the flat. He was planning on sub- letting it while he went back to England, since it had become his residence when ever he traveled to New York. Rubbing a hand against his upper leg he sighed and looked out the window before pushing himself up. Might as well start packing some of his things. He'd leave the safe apartment for now at least, it was still pretty much a secret. He moved some and wondered where his Ducatti was, he figured for the nights fiasco Lara had probably stolen it. And he had paid for that bike too. Pulling on a black button down shirt he shifted his weight turning on the tv. News was already spreading about the nights event at Iron's place. Shoulders rolled forwards as he sighed and turned off the tv. Fingers moved over the cuffs of the shirt rolling his sleeves up to his elbows and he left the shirt unbuttoned for now as he picking clothing from the floor and tossing it over to the bed. A hand moved against his hair some as he moved into the kitchen nook and opened the fridge rummaging for something to drink only to find a can of coke. Pulling the tab he leaned against the counter and the hiss of the soda sounded as he opened it. Drinking it he still thought about everything that had happened. And this trip was supposed to be his holiday. Setting the can down the spy moved across the ground once more.
It was with a heavy hand that Detective Pezzini opened the door to Blaggard's The familiar smell of cellar cold Guinness caught her nose right off and it was intermingled with the aged mellow of hardwood floors. Hand- worked exposed beams, caught the light clouds of smoke here and there, but the toxic smell didn't offend her, she was accustomed to the odor. Someone was smoking a cherry pipe, and it reminded her of her father. more emotions to bottle. She tossed her bag against the wall of the bar and waited for the tender. "Tequila. tall glass." She simply said as he quirked a brow. This was her usual place they didn't ask questions about her drinking habits. especially after the news was on telling the world about the evening at Irons' estate. As the tall glass of yellow/gold liquor was placed before her, Sara picked it up and without blinking an eye, downed the glass's contents. She gently placed the glass down and tapped the rim. "Again please." She ordered. Sara opened her cell phone and dialed the only person she wanted to talk to right now. Terry Sheridan. He was the only person she could trust. Irony at it's best. A cop trusting a spy.
She had to get out, she needed to breathe. Standing the woman went upstairs slipping a pair of boots on that had been previously perchessed for her by a member of Jackie's staff. Her mind traveled back to the last nights events. Terry's bike, the Ducatti. It was undoubtly still parked in the alleyway she hoped at least. She made for the door pausing to tell the gaurd at his post that she was going out for a bit," Do be careful Lady Croft." She felt funny being called Lady Croft all the time. She pondered telling them to simply call her just Lara, but then again that might offend them. The loose head of auburn hair nodded," I will." Her eyes held no signs of the tears she had shed which had oddly made her feel a little bit better. Prehaps there was something in this be more open with your emotions bit afterall. Hands resting in pockets Lara kept her head down, afterall to the City she was now taking residence in she's a dead woman. She knew instantly that she was being watched," Oh just come out I know you are there." The Darkling slowly emerged and stood beside her, staring silently with huge yellow eyes. Lara gave it a nod and began walking again, the Pestling beside her like an odd dog of some sort. Lara didn't talk to it, she was mad at it, at all of them for killing Jake. If only she had known she could have stopped it, that they too now listened to her as they did Jackie with or without him around. Soon she reached Irons' dark pad, she did not look up too afraid to see someone standing in a window and looking down. The alley she had left the bike came into view sure enough it was still there. Lara smiled, it would be good to see Terry, but would he push her away now aswell? Time to find out, she placed her body onto the steel beast and started it up as she had done the night before. The little creature was plucked up from the ground and sat down on the seat behind her," Hang on, but not to me." Little clawed black hands gripped the sides of the bike as Lara tore down the road, it felt good to have the wind running through her loose hair, why she braided it all those years were beyond her. She fixed the apartment in her mind, it was a twenty minute ride. She made it there in ten flat easy. Soon the Brit stood before the door, getting the strenght to knock. Finally she did, then turned back to look at the Darkling," Stay out of sight you hear me." He nodded and seemed to melt into the shadows and left Lara alone to await the door to be answered.
Walking over towards the sink he splashed water onto his face rubbing it slightly before drying it with a towel. Moving once more he glanced around the slightly messy flat and started to pick things up tossing old newspapers and tabloids into the trash can as there came a knock on the door. He rubbed his forearm slightly he should have really gone to have it checked out, but he wasn't in the mood last night. With a heavy sigh he breathed out "Just a minute.." form shifted tucking one of his sigs into the back of his slacks as he moved across the floor to the door. He didn't bother looking into the peep hole and he unlocked the door pulling it open some. But upon gazing at the sight to greet him he whishes he would have looked. "Well look at what the darkness' dragged in. Come to return the bike or pay for it?" a brow arched slightly and he moved taking his hand off the door moving farther into the room picking up something set across the table. "Since your 'ere..you can deliver this to Jackie. Still nice and sharp for next time he wants to try and run it through me." He set the sword on its point leaning the handle against the wall at the door while his phone beeped and began to ring 'God Save the Queen' it seemed he was popular tonight. And his fingers moved flipping open the phone "Sheridan.."
Sara was sipping the second glass of tequila, and as she tossed a few bills onto the counter the bartender pushed them back. "On the house Pez. you look like you need it." His smile was small and reassuring, but Sara didn't feel the warmth. Her orbs of green cast toward the crack of pool balls in the corner, just as the voice of Sheridan cut though. "Terry. hi it's Pezzini. Sara. I wanted to talk to you before your flight left. Is this a bad time?" she winced hoping he wouldn't say yes, but realizing that this was a rough time for him too. After all he came here for Lara, and she chose Jackie. Sara thought over her options, home. home was fine, back to the 9 to 5 late nights and TV dinners. Hey where else could she see an infomercial of spray hair in a can? Fuck that. Sara wasn't about to go back to the Tyler Durden lifestyle, she needed a break from the rigors of cop life. Ok then where else? I could always just do the 'get on the bike and let the road take me where it will' thing. She sighed, it felt too much like quitting, after all she wasn't Wolverine. now there was a piece of work. She took another long draught of tequila, the ice clinking in the glass.
Lara waited, glowing green eyes staring intently at the door. Finally it opened and it seemed Terry was in a rather good mood," Hello Terry." A bit of a smile crossed her lips," To return it." She stepped inside looking around a moment. The door had been left open exposing the bike to the Ex- Spy's gaze as Lara stood near the middle of the room," I should have listened to you." Why had she just admitted this? Because she had too," Things might've turned out differently." But there was also that chance they wouldn't have also," And I'm sorry, sorry for pulling you into the mess." The glowing eyes shut, disappearing behind thick lashes as she grew into silence a moment," Yes, Jackie will glad to have that back." It was a beautiful sword, Lara carefully picked it up looking it over, examining the details of it's hilt work. Engraved on the blade was the symbol of the Darkness like on her gun and the bullets inside it," I...I have something for you." Lara of course had the famed gun on her person, she carried it always now. Slender hands lifted it, and exposed the clip taking a golden bullet engraved with the Darkness symbol from it and sat it on a table between herself and Terry," Something to remember me by." Silent foot falls moved her closer to Sheridan as she leaned up placing a kiss on his cheek," So in a way I will always be with you." She figured it was the best thing she could do for all the trouble she had caused him," If you're ever in New York again stop by hmm?" The Angel of Darkness turned now and moved to walk away, pausing at the door, " I'll never forget you Terry Sheridan, after all you were my best shag." A hint of laughter to her voice and more tears, she never moved a hand to wipe them away as she seemed to disappear from the door and into the shadows as it was. Lara had come to terms with life now, one chapter was drawing to a close another opening for her and where it would take her not even the power she possesses truly knows. She turned around a moment to gaze at the apartment feeling much like Lot's Wife before moving to walk slowly away, Jackie's sword in hand.
Pausing for a moment he watched Lara's movements as she entered the room after he moved from the door. "..Lara." he breathed as she said hello to him. Form shifted dropping one shoulder against the wall glancing out the see the bike, and wires falling some. "You don't expect me to -pay- for you hi-jacking my bike do you, Tomb Raider?" brows arched upwards towards her. And arms crossed some over his bare chest while the open shirt moved. "Yes well..that would 'ave been too much to ask you listening to me. Next time I suppose I'll just 'ave to knock you out cold. Sure you might kick my arse after it..but it'd be an easier way of keeping you out of the trouble that always finds you. Well can't keep me out of things when your involved, now can we Lara." He had pushed from the wall moving looking at her studying the sword. And then she moved placing a bullet on the table. "Right and where exactly am I supposed to keep that? Besides I've plenty of things to remember you Croft. I don't forget easily.. " he shifted picking up the bullet and placing it in his pocket. " 'ell I even 'ave something to remember Jackie by. Though I'd rather forget that detail." Fingers moved pulling pack the left side of the black button down shirt exposing the scar that still ran deep in his upper chest below his collarbone. When she moved he stopped some "Lara Croft your acting as if it's the end of the world and your never going to see me again. It's not that easy to lose a spy." There was a slight smile as she said words that had gotten her angry at him and a slap "Well..another one could be arraigned. Not like Jackie's much use to you. One slip up and you've a dead Mister Mafia." He joked coyly before listening to the phone. Another woman's voice was on the other end and he knew who it belonged to. " Come now -bird- 'ow many times 'ave I talked to you like this, hm? Wouldn't think I'd forget the sound of your voice." He paused was it a bad time. Eyes moved after the Tomb Raider as she turned taking the sword leaving. Still there was a bit of silence from him until his lips parted British accent falling once again "..No.."
Just as she heard herself ask the question the voice of a woman in the background. this was a bad time. Shit. Sara felt like a heel. Her lips pressed together as she pushed up from her stool pressing the small cell phone harder into her hear so she could hear over the din of the bar. She rummaged though the army duffel bag grabbing a bottle of anti depressants prescribed to her by the psyche department. 'Do not mix with alcohol' Too late now she thought, popping her recommended dosage. "You sound busy. really busy" Sara would recognize that laugh anywhere. The Archeologist and sometimes Photojournalist Lara Croft would stand out like a sore thumb with that laugh. Was her friend playing the field? Simply lying to her about the whole Jackie thing? After all if she really loved that son of a bitch what was she doing over there? Woah. slow down there Pez are you Jealous? Her mind boggled at the notion. "Look I just wanted to let you know I was gonna be out of town for a while. the Captain put me on extended leave. If you get a chance before your flight I was gonna offer to buy you a beer, but it sounds like you have other plans." Detective Pezzini wasn't born yesterday, and she wasn't drunk enough to let the proverbial wool pulled over her eyes. She finished the second glass of tequila and stood to leave. "Hey Pez. you aint goin' no where after downing two drinks like that!" the Bartender shouted stumbling past a few crates and whatnot to the hinged countertop.
She wasn't far enough away that she couldn't hear the man's words. Her face fell," No. Not the end of the world, but a part of me still died last night Terry." Suddenly the little black demon appeared and Lara gave it the sword," Take this to the Dojo, put it in Jackie's office." She didn't want to carry that thing around all night, slowly the Brit turned around again," Here." She removed some money from her pockets," I almost forgot about that, I don't much feel like tinkering with it myself." She held the money out to him, eying the phone," Sara." She knew who it was, who else would it be? She studied Sheridan a moment, her senses overly keen now more then ever," Prehaps you should have listened to yourself and done it in the first place. Knocked me out." Arms folded slightly as she leaned against the doorjam now. She had nothing else planned tonight and sleep seemed not forth coming anytime soon at all. A hint of a smile as her eyes seemed to flicker a moment," No, things like that are not easy to forget." She looked to the scar," Mine is gone. I'm seamingly perfect now." She shook her head," No, Jackie and I cannot experance the simple pleasures of life true. Maybe for once it might be a good thing for me, to be in a relationship without the sex." She held a soft smile on her full lips," Anyhow I belong to him now in a sense, he'd know and I doubt you'd live to tell the tale of how you scored it with an Angel of Darkness." Slender hands rested now in her pockets, she seemed different changed and more at easy with herself and her emotions. She had missed the no part of his phone conversation it seemed, or simply chose to ignore it none the less," Becareful when it comes to Sara, you think Mr Hitman is bad with Sara you have Mr Assassin afterall he killed Irons once for her." Poor terry no luck with women this time at all was there? Lara thought silently to herself. )," Well if you're going to go see her I'll be on my way seeing as I'm now Sara's mortal enemy or rather The Witchblade's just like Jackie." She would wait for his answer this time," However I'll be wandering about if you want to find me that is unless you're not going." The eerie glowing pupils stared at the moon now awaiting some reply from the ex-spy.
What was the spy supposed to do? Some how interesting twists always seemed to present themselves in his life, just like now. And he watched Lara move giving the sword to a darkling and he scowled slightly. He didn't like the ruddy beasts. Moving forwards he took the money and gave her back some of it "I owed you a new pair of pants.." he stopped still holding the phone looking towards Lara. "Well..it wouldn't have killed you to listen to me for once. But we all make our own choices..and tying you down was mine. Can't change the past." He listened to the phone a moment. "I'm not sure you could call it busy..my Ducatti was given back.." still he paused watching Lara. "I've a few other things to take care of before I fly back to London..I changed my flight to tomorrow night. And is sounds as though your already 'aving yourself a drink, love.." He breathed out and pulled the phone from his ear some pressing it against his shoulder. Looking towards Lara "Well..if you hadn't ruddy been yelling at me almost every time we were together..it's not like 'e doesn't want me dead anyway..that just be one more thing on 'is list." There was a heavy sigh and he shifted again. The phone was lifted once again to his ear as he walked slightly around his flat still watching Lara "..Well its good your taking a break, even if it is partly forced. You need it..we all do.." he pause again What was he going to do? Go meet Sara who seemed to have only him to trust. Or Lara who for once was being civil towards him. And Lara spoke of the Witchblade, he knew it. Both woman who'd risked to keep the other safe were now torn apart. But Lara was Jackie's now and how could he compete with that? Jackie had given her life again. but his eyes were focused on Croft. She had asked if he was going to stay or leave, and his movement stopped some. "Can I call you in fifteen?"
A brow arched," If you hadn't pushed my buttons then I never would have yelled at you." Her tone did not rise, nor did it fall oddly it remained the same as it had been since she entered his apartment," I figured you would be leaving soon. Again sorry to have ruined your holiday dahling." Arms folded and she stepped into the place again, much like a deja vu experance. Lara had just done this once already. Arms folded as she leaned against the wall," Yes he does what you dead, but I don't." She seemed to be implying that she could spare Terry's life and so she was )," I can't do much against him phyiscally or mentally, but I can have my way when it comes to the subject matter of my friends lifes." The glowing orbs were casted downwards," Execpt her's. I cannot bargin or beg him for Sara's life anymore then my own when we meet again. I am on the otherside of the coin now Terry." In curiousty she narrowed her gaze slightly," Hm. What do you need just fifteen minutes for?" Still the same Lara, curious, sarcastic, smart in all sense of the word and brash as ever. Daring too, always daring. She would wait for his reply with a curious gaze about her indeed, though my you several ideas came to mind of what one could do in fifteen minutes.
She was downtrodden. It was apparent that Terry and Lara were far from over; at least from the bits of the conversation she had caught... something about shagging and whatnot. Sara was acting juvenile. This was no time to think about her sex life, or complete lack there of. Call me in fifteen huh? Yeah this was a really bad time to call. What were you thinking Pez? He's not interested. "Sure. Fine. Whatever. Say hi to Lara for me would ya? Gotta say I'm gonna miss that girl." Sara swallowed glaring to the bartender. "Sean. Let me pass I'm fine!" He folded his arms across his massive chest. "Not on your life Pezzini. Sit down." Sara grumbled, "Oh and you can let her know that Jackie?. yeah he's going down for murder one. I don't give a shit what he calls himself at night; I'm tired of falsifying police reports to save his ass from exposure. "Sara clicked the phone shut, turned to Sean and punched him square in the face breaking his nose. "Try me." She cursed picking up her bag and walking out.
The now Angel of Darkness stood in the room having been given to her by Jackie at his Dojo. She was dressed comfortably in loose black pants and a dark blue tanktop. Irons straight auburn locks fell loosely about her shoulders, thoughts raged inside her mind. Never again would things be the same for Lara Croft. She knew this and had come to terms with it last night. She was always one to adapt quickly, and this situation was treated no different. Most of the day she had spent alone within the confines of her room, thinking. A part of it she had explored the Dojo further and found it rather nice, tranquil and relaxing to the senses. Now she sat on the bed in her room in meditation or so it seemed, however her mind was too full and to aware of things around her. Any sound made, any movement and she knew.
The morning was silent, not something very new to Jackie while he remained in the confinements of his Dojo but it seemed somewhat odd to him. Only because he wasn't alone in the Dojo. The essence of those that he hired and asked to stay in the Dojo was all he was used to, now Lara was inside and had stayed here. Much went down yesterday... a lot of what he still probably hadn't even registered into his mind. Everything went wrong yesterday... there wasn't any good in his mind that came about his having experienced the war inside of Irons' Estate. He figured he'd go explore now. It was time for him to pay Lara a visit. He had been expecting her to show up to his room but she had did no such did, which was slightly peculiar since she was the type to be nosey and see what was going on around her... at this moment, the entire Dojo. Or if she had done so, she only observed and said nothing and to no one. His steps fell silently upon the ground. Her place of location wasn't too far from his own and this was done on purpose. He'd need to personally keep an eye out for her, since she was constantly put at risk He actually couldn't remember a time when she just went an entire day without some random act of violence coming from her or someone else in her presence. Jackie's wrist slowly turned as he would open the door to her room up.
Deep breaths left the seemingly once again perfect physique of Lara Croft, her long legs had been folded into an indian style, her long arms resting limply across them. Hazel orbs were hidden behind thick closed lashes and an overly calm look was across her features. Bare feet rested against the white liniens of the bed as she set near the middle of it. The Brit was rather a bit shocked that he had not come to see her sooner then now, but then again Jackie had probly expected her to pay him the visit. Not this time, she had too many questions she needed to figure out for herself and ask of herself. The brown and green splashed irises were now visable as she heard the door click, indeed he had come to her. Lara figured as much soon he would. Night was near, she could feel it in her very being now, there was a sigh a long exhale of air," You took longer then I expected." He would understand the meaning behind the words spoken in that still aristrocratic accent from Surrey, England as it's owner now stared at him, eyes full of life, questions a slight emptiness and an eerieness aswell.*
His eyes examined her features. The Darkness had taken away all the phyiscal pain from her outside features but he could feel the mental pain that had been added. It seemed as if a burden had now been placed on her, one that she wasn't ready to take on but he all too well knew how that felt and look at him now. He had turned out the best he could have. But then again... he was a slightly troubled person all the time. His body maneuvered over to her bed, stopping at the right side of it before he could settle himself onto it somewhat, leaning down with one arm supporting him. He was leveled now with her, still taller but leveled nonetheless. He said nothing to her comment of his timing... there was nothing for him to say about that. He could've joked on it but he could feel the seriousness in the air of the room. Lara's aura had been changed. Her new gift having brought them to a closer understanding, or rather helped Lara to further understand him by first understanding what she was now. He looked her straight in the eye and tried to read what he could, a cloud having been placed over her, one that was previously not as thick... "What is it that your searching for now? I may not have all the answers but I may know the answers to whatever it is your trying to figure out. "
She was never one to visably cry, infact the only time she ever did and it was obvious was on the date of her Father's death, the fifteenth of May. That was never a good day, and it never would be. A part of her being wanted to cry, but the other part, the strong part simply would not allow it. Lara had lost her family, her friends, life as she once knew it was pretty much dead and gone now. Alot of these thoughts was due to the fact she had almost gotten happiness in death, she had almost held the two things she longed for the most inlife, but inlife they were once again torn from her grasp. In silence she stared at Jackie without emotion at first. Could he see her inner struggle now? Was her thoughts and actions that readable, so it seemed as he spoke. Soon a sense of mixed emotions over came her. Should the Brit feel anger towards this man for doing what he deemed right? Or should she be thankful? It was all too much to take in right now, with mental motions she pushed these things to the back of her mind. Yes, Lara was running from problems again in a sense," I'm searching for alot of things right now Jackie." Idly she wondered what all did he know about her? The thought of asking him pressed and nagged at her," Hm. What do you know about me? Do you know that last night I was almost complete? Indeath I almost found happiness that in the end really could never be?" Her body shifted, knees drawing up against her frame as long arms wrapped around them her chin now resting atop her knees. Silence again, for a few moments before she spoke once more," I don't know what to think..what to feel.." Could it be for the first time in the woman's life she felt vunerable and was expressing it? In a way yes, but also in a way she felt lost and confused," Nothing will be the same anymore. A part of me still died last night." She looked away now, obviously fighting tears. If he knew her aswell as he seemed to Jackie would understand how hard it was for Lara Croft to show emotion, esspecially the ones she was feeling now.
His body slid back more and more, his movements very gradual and slow. He would eventually end up right next to her, the distance between them both cut short. He didn't look her in the eye any longer, he didn't want to try and read her any more than he already had. It did pain him to see her like this but what could he do about it? He in truth didn't know as much about her as he would've thought he did, her question proving this to himself. When she curled herself up, he moved himself behind her and basically covered along her form, this would eliminate the possibility of him seeing her unless she uncurled and turned herself to face him. He didn't want to see her this vulnerable. He already could feel it but he didn't want to know by her expression how much pain she was dealing with. She told him that she was almost complete... he knew not what that had meant in all actuality but the little he knew from factual documents was that she, like him, had no parents to console with. He had figured she meant that was almost there in death with them and he had taken this from her... "I'm sorry Lara... I just did what I thought was right. I Just... couldn't watch you die there."...He felt bad for his actions but didn't exactly know if she was angry with his actions or happy in heart that she still lived. His arms came to wrap around her form, a form of physical comfort from him was all he could do now. She would have to work out her feelings on her own. He would be there for her throughout the time it would take her though. A question had come to mind now as he continued to wonder. Why did she fight so hard to hide the emotions she felt. Even around him, she wouldn't let up and just once show a signal of weakness. His face touched against her cheek as he motioned his head forwards more... "You know, your still human... No one's perfect... Why do you hide your true feelings? What's holding you back? I don't think anyone besides me has gotten this chance to see you even this vulnerable."
He came around and behind her, his arms coming around her. The woman in her, the fact that she was simply a woman and human came into play and she leaned back into him. No one had really ever held her in moments like this, seemly no one had probly dared too even think of such a thing. A sigh escaped her, it seemed to come from her very core and a single tear did fall rolling down her satin tanned cheek. She didn't move to wipe it away. Lara was discovering more then ever know what Jackie had said. Still human, she had always been just human and she always would be.A bit of a sad smile crossed her full lips," I've never claimed to be perfect you know." A bit of a chuckle, still the same old Lara in the end. Seriousness once more over took her being as her head rested back against his shoulder arms coming to rest about his, which laid around her," I don't like to feel weak, let alone vulnerable." Hazel orbs shut now, lips pursed a moment in thought," It's.." A bit of a huff it seemed this was hard for her to explain," Feelings, emotions they are my downfall. Everytime in my life I have ever conveyed an emotion or a feeling something gets mucked up. So I decided to simply stop feeling or rather ignore it." Her tone seemed dry, she did not want to admit this to anyone at all, but in a way she felt like she had to that maybe getting it out would help. It did, but it didn't. She shook her head slowly," If you think I'm angry, I'm not." Eyes openned again," I could never be angry with someone who cares." The last sentance came as a whisper barely autible.*
A smile shown on his face... She was letting up a bit. For the first time in who knows how long. He doubted that she had been this way for a long time with another person having been present if she had even ever been this way in front of another at all. His left hand would slide up her arm then lightly wipe the single tear that came from her eye. He kept the smile along his features... Her aura was clearing a bit, the process would be slow but he was a very patient man when it came down to these situations. He would further show his compassion towards her by kissing the spot where the tear was wiped. Both his hands covered and held her's, finger intertwined and locked. He would now close his eyes and allow her to rest against him. A response was then given to her comment... "Your right, you never said you were perfect... I just thought you were."... Jackie would never change, no matter the situation he would always add his little smooth comments. He would then continue to give her his full attention, listening the words that came from her mouth, picking up on even the slightest change in her breathing as each word flowed out. Her feelings captured inside each word that passed through her lips... "Don't worry about things going bad between us... I don't think any of the other guys cared for you as much as I do. Express yourself... it's what keeps the relationship going. I think that's why your other relationships won't compare to ours."
His gentle touch seemed relaxing, it seemed to almost fill long since empty gaps in her life. Though many of those gaps would never be filled at all. Eyes closed a moment, she seemed surprized that such compassion could come from such a man indeed. Jackie never ceased to surprize or amaze Lara at all. Prehaps this was part of the reason she was attracted to him, the other factors being he could keep up to par with her and kept her on her toes. The closeness was all to nice, too perfect and she did not wish to do anything at all to break it. A smile now once more produced itself across her full lips," Hm. You can always seem to make me smile.." And even the times they had went head to head in battle, somehow, some way he did indeed make a flicker of a grin or a full smile cross her features. Lara listened to him in silence and nodded briefly," Prehaps." Indeed he was probly right," Must you always hit the proveribal nail right on the head?" She shifted now, turning to face him long legs curling behind her," Relationships are two way streets Jackie Estacado." She looked him in the eyes now," And as the saying goes share and share alike." Lara was not about to be the only one to express true feelings," I can tell you got something biting you in the arse, something you want to say or prehaps even show." She studied his chistled features now beyond them outside the sun was slowly sinking behind the skyline as the Brit awaited an answer of some sort from the man.
A smirk set on his face, the usual smirk he did at times like these. Jackie was a complex man indeed. There were many sides to this man besides simply just the one he put on for the public eye. In public he was just a hitman.... nothing more. But when one got him in private, other sides to his personality would reveal itself, some taking longer than others to bring themselves out. Lara was one of the few to see a side of him rather than his public image. But she was the first to actually see him the way he is now... His smooth nature was what usually prevailed over all other keys characteristics that made up his personality... "Well, it's my job to keep you happy. I figure if Lara's not happy then no one's happy."... He chuckled a bit then squeezed her hands lightly... "Oh, and of course... I'm a marksman remember, I don't like to miss unless it's on purpose. As far as relationships go... "there are two streets... One street leads to a happy life and the other street usually leads to break ups. I've already chosen my path."... he let her go and leaned backwards, sustaining himself balanced by the positioning of his hands on the bed. His upper body flexed as he did so, and basically showed off since he never usually wore a shirt unless he was leaving the Dojo. No shirt was needed in a place like this where he would rest and practice his martial arts. She was now being weird... As he could read her so easily, it seemed that she could also do the same now. Maybe the further they build a bond, the better they would get at knowing each others thoughts and feelings. Obviously so, since no one was usually able to read what he was thinking.... Ever. His eyes looked down then finally came back up... "Your pretty good... I guess there is something I want to say but... I'm not sure how to go about saying it "I'm kinda like you in the sense, my feelings are usually balled up... I've let them out to you but this particular one is a little complicated.
Hazel orbs watched him, took in his movements, his expressions. Intruth he was indeed very expressive with certain things, other things he was like an ancient text unknown. However, give the Archeaologist time and she would decode the said text and read it too. She laughed, it was the first laugh she had really allowed to happen since last night with Irons. It felt good, good to feel another emotion besides heartache and angst. Lara knew Jackie had not shown this caring side to many if not any at all. She felt privaliged indeed, and also in a since releived that he trusted her so," Yes, yes a happy Lara is a good thing." A cheeky grin pressed across her features," A mad Lara gets people killed, usually." But of course Jackie had probly indeed realized this aspect about the woman," You do your job very well." A mocking tone, teasing. Same old Lara. She was slowly discovering that despite being now part of The Darkness, that she was indeed still the same person only with a darker image now. An Angel of Darkness indeed. Serious again, she shifted between the moods quickly. A nod," Yes there is." He was logical aswell? Again Jackie never ceased with surprises. He also moved rather fast once his mind was set on something," I know you did, funny thing really most men take along time to chose their paths with me, the ones who know me and how my nature is." But of course Jackie was once again highly aware of this indeed. He seemed aware of everything. She sat still and silently inplace, greenish-brown pupils beheld him and his obvious power and strenght. The fact he just might be stronger then her gave Lara a sense of safety if you will. Afterall she is indeed a woman no matter how strong and tough she claims or is, all women need safety in the end. She nodded, understanding more then he probly figured," I know, but prehaps if it was said a proverable weight would indeed be lifted from your," Eyes grazed over his form slowly," Shoulders." Eyes focused on the man's face once more, trying to read him, figure him out as he was still in ways a mystery to her.
He was in heart and mind very happy to see her finally get back to being the same old Lara she always was. No matter what happened, he couldn't look at her any differently because to him she would always just be the same Lady Lara Croft he had met before. No matter what new powers she had... "Well... I like to make my work enjoyable."... he slid a hand back a little further, forcing himself to lean even lower. Eyes remaining on her figure. He had a quick thought... something that amused him a little. He felt the urge to let out what he was thinking... "Now I'm wondering, Are you not used to being just about half naked? Don't ask me why I ask this... your image last night came to mind. And I can't help but say that you looked good enough to eat yesterday."... He grinned then removed the weight of his body off of his arms. His back now pressed against the bed totally. His grin didn't last too long, the seriousness in his eyes returning but it wasn't so much a bad thing but rather showing that what he was thinking about and didn't want to say was something he'd felt was very pressing and important. But for her, he'd try it out... "What I want to say is something that's been bugging me for a while... You may already know this but..."... he paused in between say the rest... 'Same effect as last time'... "Well... Lara, I Love You."... he got it out finally... it came out loud and clear, which was what he wanted to make it. His love for her was out in the open and now she would know if she hadn't already picked up on it before, the last time he almost slipped and said it was enough evidence.
A brow arched," Well if it's not enjoyable why keep doing it I say." A hazel orb winked at him," Though sometimes it does becoming tasking I'm all to sure." A sheepish grin over took her features, Lara had always been fully aware that she was a difficult woman indeed. The eyes almost narrowed in a playful manner as she looked at him, a suttle change in the color, they were growing green," Let's just say this much, how Sara does it without blushing at least mentally I'd love to know." The once hazel orbs had taken on that same glowing luster in green from last night after he had risen her from the dead. Silence. She was stuck within it completely for the moment and for the longest time she stared at him, shadows playing about the room now one falling across her making just her eyes visible. Love her...someone loved her? And had said so?!?! She seemed lost in her own world of thoughts for a moment indeed, she had figured him actually saying it wouldn't shock her, but it had. Then she smiled, it wasn't very noticable, but she did so. On hands and knees now, she crept forward across the bed almost in a stalking like manner before stopping next to Jackie, hands resting on either side of him now and knees off to one side," I knew. I just wanted to hear you say it." The eerie glowing pupils studied the blue ones below them now as silence fell once more apon them.
Watched as the rooms dimmed amount of light would fade even more with the dropping of the sun. Jackie didn't mind the dark of course, he rather preferred it more than being in the sun. He was still a bit surprised that he told her what he had. Love wasn't always something he admitted to outright and I bet Lara was feeling the aftershock of his words too. That wasn't something he knew she would expect. He figured that since she was with him here and now, that no one else had declared their love to her and proved it. Jackie had proved it enough already... He did bring her back from the dead didn't he? The darkness of the room allowed him to view the new Lara. Her glowing eyes enticed him very much. He wanted to do something but there was always something that held him back. But he was a man of course so fighting the urges were harder than he'd expect and now it almost seemed that Lara was taunting him. His hands came up and placed along her hips... "Your starting to say things I would..."... he was implying to her comment on wanting to hear him say it, of course. By the time He spoke, she'd be near face to face with him. So Jackie placed his hands massaging along her thighs, tracing along from place to place.
She still smiled, it was visable to him now seeing as they were so close. The mass of straight auburn locks casscaded over each shoulder, the encredible lenght of her hair casing it to dance as she moved across his bare chest lightly. Eyes took care of passing across his features, the lines of his mouth the way they wrinkled just slightly when he grinned or smiled. The way his blue eyes danced just a little when she said something sarcastic or pleasing to him. Should she reply? Say it aswell, what she indeed feel for the man below her? Yes, yes she should," And I.." And he thought it was difficult for him to say," love you." there it was said, it was done with valor aswell as he had done unto her. She was comfortable in the dark, afterall not all tombs have light nor could one always carry light into them. Plus, she was quick to adapt anyhow. Lara wasn't meaning to taunt the man if she was, but she was rather enjoying his closeness all the same. His touch was still just as thrilling as before, she wondered was his kisses aswell? Would they possibly be more so? One way to find out," Hm. That so?" She grinned now, eyes flashing just slightly. The Tomb Raider was rather beginning to enjoy this power she now had, it coursed through her veins like a strange elixor. It was life, afterall with Jackie's help it had indeed given her life once more and with that act he indeed proven to her that his love was true. She lowered her upper frame to rest against him now, but leveling her head just above his, fingers playing with his semi-long black hair. Silence was always nice when you had someone like yourself to share it with. The glowing orbs dissapeared behind fluttering lashes as slightly parted lips met his softly, barely a touch really, but enough. Yes, just as thrilling indeed.
New York City, Manhattan Homicide Department The newly reinstated Detective Sara Pezzini was in her office. For years she used to complain that it was cramped and stuffy, but today it seemed so empty. The brunette had been sitting at her desk since early morning, not bothering to get up and turn the lights on. The only illumination that streamed in was from the main floor, it filtered though the partially open horizontal blinds working heavy shadows over her hunched body. She stared over to Jake's desk and the few forgotten items he had left on its surface. He was always tidy. just like Michael. Unlike her desk and it's menagerie of paperwork and tidbits. In her absence Jake had cleaned everything. even the train wreck that was her desk. She wouldn't have been surprised if he went so far as to wash the windows. The corkboard was clear of it usual roster of crime scene photos, and every file was away in their proper place. Sara felt as though she had been gone for years. Her hands rolled Jake's coffee cup that stated I'd rather be Surfing! between her palms as she found herself lost in grief. "Yeah. me too." Sara muttered after re- reading the porcelain cup. Her boss Lieutenant Joseph Siry knocked on the reinforced glass of her door, before entering. "Hey... oh. I didn't realize you were still here." He waited for Sara to acknowledge his words and after a few awkward minutes of silence he continued, ".I was just coming in to get a few things together for McCarthy's family.." Pezzini put the mug down onto her blotter and stood. The chair's wooden legs rattled against the Formica tiles cutting the silence. "Joe I appreciate all that you've done to help out. It's not easy when one of your own goes." Sara walked to the door and her boss. He placed a strong hand on her shoulder, and stopped her from leaving, "Sara, you know you're like a daughter to me. I want you to take a few days off. You're job will be waiting for you when you come back." The detective nodded a bit, "Thanks." She simply stated walking out. Green eyes cast out toward the main floor and it throng of activity. Phones were ringing, paperwork being shuffled, and yet as Sara walked past toward the exit, the noise dimmed as most of her co-workers empathized with her mood. She got a few nods and looks of comfort, but her face remained stoic and unchanged. Out in the night air, Sara's heavy leather jacket caught the warm breeze, revealing the plain white t-shirt she was wearing. Her heavy boots carried her down the sidewalk an army tote bag over her shoulder. Her destination was clear. Get her bike, and get out of town. at least for a while. After forty five minutes of walking Detective Pezzini was standing before the main grounds of Hell's Kitchen. Her eyes scanned to the camera poised in the crook of a tree as she waited for a guard or something to talk to her though the small metal box and open the main gate.
Jackie's brow was raised as he listened to Lara's words. Was she about to do what he thought she was? He said he loved her and was true about it, but he didn't feel the need for her to say it back or even respond on it. He just wanted to let her know that the love was their. But she went above and beyond what she normally would do. She said the fabled words back to him. The silence was built from there on. A moment between two lovers was developing. His left hand started to glide up, fingertips brushing on her butt and sliding across her shirt till finally placing themselves onto her cheek. He was of course good with his hands and knew exactly how to rub his woman the right way. Her kiss gave him a chill, they both were good kissers but her kiss to him now seemed to have much more in it than the last time they had expressed feelings for one another. Maybe it was just in his mind... or was it that love made everything they did that much better? Jackie's lips at first brushed against her's the kiss very minor, till he pushed up a little and gave her a complete kiss. After this kiss, his lips would guide downwards, smooches place from her mouth downwards till he got to her neck. He'd massage that area now with his lips. Both hands now made to run throughout her entire form. Things were fun and games now but little did he know that they would soon have an unexpected visit.... Miss. Pezzini herself. And Jackie had seemingly made reservations for her to stop by, so the guards would allow her inside if she came.
Silence. Darkness. Love. Such interesting things when all together in the same room. Jackie's touch was electric, alive, it sent tiny shivers about her muscles which quivered and jumped beneath his smooth hands when they came across her form Her own fingers felt the desire to roam, the slender ten figures discovering every strand of hair on his head, then the contores of his strong face. His kiss was met with the same emotion he gave into his. Never had Lara felt so alive it seemed the power they both now possesed thrived from the lovers and they from it. The tips of her fingers dance lightly down to his shoulders before going back up once more buring them within his mass of dark hair. She did not want him to stop. Never ever. Her mind became numb as his lips caressed the soft skin of her neck," Mm." Such a man indeed Jackie Estacado is. The action causing her head to tilt to the side ever so slightly, her lips to be near his ear now, she placed a lingering kiss apon the lobe her breath warm against it and the side of his face as she rested against him. The glowing orbs remained hidden for now, though her lashes slit open and a small glow did peer out into the dark atmosphere of the room. His lips were like a dark magic in themselves and their owner knowing just how to work the spells. Silently Lara wondered if this kept going could they stop themselves before it began to go to far? She figured they would both have a rather hard time stopping if it got anymore heated. But a part of her did not want to stop either, however she knew they would have to none the less.
"Do you have an appointment?" crackled a voice though the com. "No. Just tell Estacado that Detective Pezzini is here." She offered. The voice cut back in, "You've been expected." The twin irons gates opened with the groan of mechanics and Sara walked up the cobblestone drive. How many times had she and Jake done routine patrol here? The brunette walked carrying her few belongings $ 224.00 (what was left in her bank account) in her pocket. Her apartment was still in a shamble, but she had gathered a few things and exited without dwelling on the fact that her rent was due, or that the air- conditioning was still on. She neared the oppressive front door and was greeted by a few Armani suited mobsters waiting in the vestibule. With a sullen face she looked to the one who had allowed her access, "Don't worry, I left the badge at the door. Just tell him I here to pick up my bike." She shifted the pack on her shoulder and when one of them offered to take her things she shook her head. "Thanks. I got it." Her green irises narrowed a bit as she shifted the pack more securely onto her shoulder. Sara glanced out the window to the lowering sun and her heart sank. She didn't want to deal with the Darkness right now. Hell she didn't want to deal with anything right now, but on a cop's salary she wasn't getting far without her vehicle. The newly changed Witchblade rested on her right wrist, it's white/silver metal concealed by the tattered sleeve of her jacket Scraps of the lining draped over her fingertips. This was her spare jacket an old favorite from college, the new one had been decimated a few weeks earlier by the ripping tendrils of the blade. The somewhat overweight mobster neared her, the stench of cheap cologne caught her scent. Sara guessed it was Hi-Karate or impostor Calvin Kline. "Look lady I wasn't asking ta be nice. I need ta know if you're packing heat." Sara allowed herself to get searched, dropping the bag. "Hey lookey what we got here!" He lifted her snub nose .357 between his pudgy fingers, then the Walther PPK from the rear waistband if her jeans. "So you say this is a social call huh doll? What-da need all this hardware fer then huh?" Sara wasn't in the mood to deal with this shit right now, and she didn't' fight back when the stocky man pushed her back against the wall.
However, Ian was certainly in the mood for a fight tonight. He had been trailing Sara all day, and he didn't especially like it when Sara was pushed back up against the wall. Ian made it over the wall with a single solitary leap, not bothering with the front security at all. With a vicious kick knocking the man back, Ian puts himself between the man and Sara, looking to him. "The lady is just here for her bike. I suggest you give it up." He states, his eyes not flinching off the man's who had pushed her up against the wall. The guard looked to him, and his eyes widened. "You- You're the one that was here a couple of days ago." Ian simply smirks and nods at the comment. "Indeed, I was. Now, the detective would like her bike. Please procure it." He says, as he manages a glance back to Sara.
They had indeed stopped themselves before things got anymore heated. Next time though Lara wondered if they would be able to or not? But of course they would have too, however when would just the petting and kisses become not enough for Lara? Somehow knowing Jackie he would find ways to indeed please her. She had decided to leave her room now and go out into the world once again, staring out her window as Jackie left for some business he needed to attend too. The way he talked it was business for the Mafia, he would be fine, he return to her later. Turning away from the moon light and the figure slipping away into Darkness, Lara asended downstairs into and interesting scene. The men looked up at her as she entered," Lady Croft, how good to see you." She nodded briefly to the gaurds. Eyes still glowing green as the fixed on a familar face, two to be exact," Sara." A smile crossed the Tomb Raider's lips as she moved fully into the room, but also keeping her distance. The glowing orbs flitted to the men," Go get her bike please and leave us." Lara now had power in the Dojo being an Angel of Darkness. The men nodded and obeyed giving Sara back her gun," Never question my friends in that manner again or I'll have a talk with Mr Estacado." The man who had taken Sara's gun nodded sourly and left," I'm sorry about that." Her smile was happy, and yet also slightly sad as she stood there hair loose and flowing in her loose black pants and deep blue tanktop wondering what would happen now..would Sara try to kill her? Would Nottingham? Would either even speak to her now? She waited, all she could really do.
The brown haired detective sighed, at the sudden intrusion from Nottingham this was not the best time for violence. She was at a saturation level by this point. "Look. I'm not here to make waves, I don't care if you have to have to perform a full body search on everyone that walks in here, I just want what's mine." She turned and glared toward Ian. "And I don't' need your help." Sara picked her weapons off the ground and unloaded their bullets. Tucking the clip and bullets into her front pants pocket and then placing the hand cannons back into their holster and the band if her jeans. "Just call who you have to call, I'll be waiting outside. you got plenty of help here." She eyed the remaining gangsters and stooped to pick up her bag. Her head turned up to the voice of the Tomb Raider. "You look right at home here. I'm just here to pick up the Buell. don't worry I'll be out of your hair in a few minutes." She didn't smile, it was apparent that she hadn't slept; her eyes were hollow and lifeless and her skin was pale. Too much coffee, not this time. Sara nodded again, "the funeral is on Sunday. should I leave my dance card open for one more?" It was a deliberate dig toward Lara, irrational and very below the belt, and as she spoke it she regretted it. This wasn't her decision, Jackie did this to her.. And to Jake.
He looks between both people, as he looks to Sara, hearing the comment about not needing help. He wanted to be there for her, and to be able to comfort her, but she wouldn't let him in that way, so he was forced to just watch her back. He winced slightly at the insult from Sara towards Lara, as he looks to Sara. "Sara, she didn't have a choice as to what happened. You can't blame her for something that she didn't do. You have every right to be upset, but at least aim the shots for those who deserve it most." He says, looking back to Lara, momentarily. "It is good to see you well." He says, leaving it just at that for her, deciding not to press anything farther than he was absolutely going to have to. It was certainly a weird time for all of them right now.
Eyes fell, a frown swept across her features and her head fell in shame," So, this is how it's going to be then?" Once again the glowing orbs lifted and stared at her now possibly former friend,partner and sister figure," I will be there, I cannot speak for Jackie however." She would make him go wither he liked it or not., " I really am sorry Sara." The roar of a motorcycle hit her ears," No matter I will always remain your friend." Another tear snuck and trailed down Lara's cheek, had she gone soft? No, she was deeply hurt, but not surprized at all," And no, this isn't really home it never will be, but this is where I belong now." Eyes closed a moment, to admit this Lara should be happy, but she wasn't," He loves me." The Raider bit her lower lip the nervious habit still remained. Eyes flashed open, was Ian Nottingham sticking up for her? A smile was given to him," Same to you Ian." A sniffle, this was hard for the Brit indeed. She wiped the moisture from her shining eyes and fixed her gaze on the Assassin," Take care of her for me please." Lara undoubtly meant Sara," No matter how much she pushes you away or denies it, but she needs someone to look after her and I can't...I wish I could, but I can't." Her voice quivered, trembled even in emotion. The Darkness within her though not activatied without Jackie around seemed to make her emotions more open and alive, she could no longer hide them anymore," Take care both of you." Lara didn't know what else to say and prehaps there really wasn't anything else to be said," I'm sorry." But just that.
Now she was getting pointers on etiquette from Nottingham?! He was right... damn him he was right. Her gaze softened a bit as she looked to Lara. A flash of memory caught her mind of the blonde surfer leaning his elbow out of the unmarked squad car. He was rubbing the back of his neck and sporting a sheepish grin as he almost embarrassingly said, 'Aww man you mean Lara's in town an I'm stuck here on duty? Hey Pez. have fun and tell Lara I said hi." an honest blue eye winking to her. Jake didn't deserve this, hell Lara didn't deserve this. "I'm glad to be able to look you in the face and hear your voice. I'm glad I didn't have to zip up a body bag, but it's all I can do to not allow this thing (gesturing to the Witchblade) to rip you apart." She cast her glance to Nottingham. "You're right. losing a partner isn't that big of a deal, after all, I should be used to it by now huh?" The dig was uncalled for, but her unfounded bursts of fiery truth was simply her way of deal with pain. Sara turned to leave. "Later Sis, Ian."
He sighed softly, as he looked to her. He hadn't meant anything like that when he was trying to help her. It seemed like all he was doing was digging a ditch for himself, with Sara. "Sara, you know that's not what I meant." He says, thinking of how irrational she was being right now. She had every right to be , but it didn't make things any easier. Doing this was only making it harder on everyone else. Of course, it had been a personal shot to him, because he had shot her first partner, Michael Yee. He wasn't going to make excuses for it, but he was going to try and deal with it. "Sara, wait up." He says, as he starts to move after her.
Lara nodded," I know Sara, tis why I'm keeping my distance." The Brit figured they were now mortal enemies," I wish I could hug you but I cannot." Her voice was sad," I can't even implicate it with the Darkness unless Jackie is around me, which he's out at the moment." A deep breath was taken," Sara be careful, write to me if you can." A sad smile and the flood gates opened now as the glowing green orbs seemed to almost sparkle like a jade gem as each tear left them," Follow her Ian, keep her safe if you really love her like you have said then nothing will stand in your way." Lara had a new respect for love now, it was why Jackie had brought her back," And I'm sorry for always being so nasty to you, it wasn't your fault the way you are it was Irons'." A sad smile among the tears," Try to be your own person Nottingham for once you're not a manservant, but just a man." She watched the woman, her friend walk away, her fingers came to rest against her lips as she blew a friendly kiss to her departing friend's back," Goodbye Sis." Lara could barely speak the words as she fell to the stairs next to her and rested against the railing now crying. She was breaking apart at her seams emotionally, letting out what seemed to be years and years of inner turmoil and bottled up pain.
She clenched her jaw and set to work hardening her heart. Suck it up Pez. push it all down until you're numb, close it off. It was how she dealt with pain. She walked to her bike in the drive and straddled it. Helmet-less Sara tucked the bag over her shoulder and took off without looking back to the pair. With a thundering of the powerful Harley Davidson made engine, Detective Pezzini left Hells Kitchen. She maneuvered the bike toward her usual bar to get a drink. to get a lot of drinks. The traffic was steady, and she drove slowly following the traffic laws to the letter. It was clear that the helmet-less detective wasn't in any mood for joy. She realized that Jackie loved her friend. the murderer and the Tomb Raider, it was hard to imagine. It wouldn't stop her from doing her job. Estacado was going down for murder one, and Pezzini bided her time as the forensics teams worked. She was glad that Siry had given her some time off, but a girl with a little over two hundred dollars couldn't go very far from her problems, save the bottle. Parking the bike in the small parking lot, Sara walked toward the door with cold deliberate steps.
They were on different sides now, still friends in spirit however. But in all truth Lara knew Jackie had murdered Jake and Sara would do all in her power to put him behind bars, and the Brit being on the bad side of the coin now would have to stand by her man and go against her friend. Tears were slowly dried, a sniffling English woman sat on the stairs inside staring out a left open door into the outside world, sometimes it felt now like it stared back. The dark had a face and Lara could see it. Creepy, but also fasincating none the less. bare feet pressed against the plush rug on the stairstep under them. The Dojo's staff would pass her by saying nothing usually, or asking her if she wanted anything the answer was all the same," No. I'm fine thank you." And with a shaking of their heads the staff would move on," As you wish Lady Croft." Lara found it odd that they were unalarmed by her glowing green eyes, but then again she was sure that these people who worked here were used to strange happenings and occurances. After a while Lara decided as another person a woman walked passed she did indeed want something," Scotch please." The woman arched a brow," A shot or.." Lara waved her hand," The whole ruddy bottle if you will." The woman nodded," Yes Lady Croft." The Brit knew going to the bottle would not solve her problems or bring comfort, but at least it would dull her senses for a while. Soon the woman returned and handed her the bottle," Thank you." The reply to Lara was simply a nod. Lara knew the woman did not want to give her the liquor, but did so anyhow as she had stated to Jackie earlier, an unhappy Lara gets people killed usually a happy Lara was your best bet.
After he had left most of the night had been spent with Dimitri in the bar, drinking until he'd been dragged back to his flat. The morning after he'd woken with a hang over, and his leg and arm sore from the night prior. Stretching out he sat up and looked around the flat. He was planning on sub- letting it while he went back to England, since it had become his residence when ever he traveled to New York. Rubbing a hand against his upper leg he sighed and looked out the window before pushing himself up. Might as well start packing some of his things. He'd leave the safe apartment for now at least, it was still pretty much a secret. He moved some and wondered where his Ducatti was, he figured for the nights fiasco Lara had probably stolen it. And he had paid for that bike too. Pulling on a black button down shirt he shifted his weight turning on the tv. News was already spreading about the nights event at Iron's place. Shoulders rolled forwards as he sighed and turned off the tv. Fingers moved over the cuffs of the shirt rolling his sleeves up to his elbows and he left the shirt unbuttoned for now as he picking clothing from the floor and tossing it over to the bed. A hand moved against his hair some as he moved into the kitchen nook and opened the fridge rummaging for something to drink only to find a can of coke. Pulling the tab he leaned against the counter and the hiss of the soda sounded as he opened it. Drinking it he still thought about everything that had happened. And this trip was supposed to be his holiday. Setting the can down the spy moved across the ground once more.
It was with a heavy hand that Detective Pezzini opened the door to Blaggard's The familiar smell of cellar cold Guinness caught her nose right off and it was intermingled with the aged mellow of hardwood floors. Hand- worked exposed beams, caught the light clouds of smoke here and there, but the toxic smell didn't offend her, she was accustomed to the odor. Someone was smoking a cherry pipe, and it reminded her of her father. more emotions to bottle. She tossed her bag against the wall of the bar and waited for the tender. "Tequila. tall glass." She simply said as he quirked a brow. This was her usual place they didn't ask questions about her drinking habits. especially after the news was on telling the world about the evening at Irons' estate. As the tall glass of yellow/gold liquor was placed before her, Sara picked it up and without blinking an eye, downed the glass's contents. She gently placed the glass down and tapped the rim. "Again please." She ordered. Sara opened her cell phone and dialed the only person she wanted to talk to right now. Terry Sheridan. He was the only person she could trust. Irony at it's best. A cop trusting a spy.
She had to get out, she needed to breathe. Standing the woman went upstairs slipping a pair of boots on that had been previously perchessed for her by a member of Jackie's staff. Her mind traveled back to the last nights events. Terry's bike, the Ducatti. It was undoubtly still parked in the alleyway she hoped at least. She made for the door pausing to tell the gaurd at his post that she was going out for a bit," Do be careful Lady Croft." She felt funny being called Lady Croft all the time. She pondered telling them to simply call her just Lara, but then again that might offend them. The loose head of auburn hair nodded," I will." Her eyes held no signs of the tears she had shed which had oddly made her feel a little bit better. Prehaps there was something in this be more open with your emotions bit afterall. Hands resting in pockets Lara kept her head down, afterall to the City she was now taking residence in she's a dead woman. She knew instantly that she was being watched," Oh just come out I know you are there." The Darkling slowly emerged and stood beside her, staring silently with huge yellow eyes. Lara gave it a nod and began walking again, the Pestling beside her like an odd dog of some sort. Lara didn't talk to it, she was mad at it, at all of them for killing Jake. If only she had known she could have stopped it, that they too now listened to her as they did Jackie with or without him around. Soon she reached Irons' dark pad, she did not look up too afraid to see someone standing in a window and looking down. The alley she had left the bike came into view sure enough it was still there. Lara smiled, it would be good to see Terry, but would he push her away now aswell? Time to find out, she placed her body onto the steel beast and started it up as she had done the night before. The little creature was plucked up from the ground and sat down on the seat behind her," Hang on, but not to me." Little clawed black hands gripped the sides of the bike as Lara tore down the road, it felt good to have the wind running through her loose hair, why she braided it all those years were beyond her. She fixed the apartment in her mind, it was a twenty minute ride. She made it there in ten flat easy. Soon the Brit stood before the door, getting the strenght to knock. Finally she did, then turned back to look at the Darkling," Stay out of sight you hear me." He nodded and seemed to melt into the shadows and left Lara alone to await the door to be answered.
Walking over towards the sink he splashed water onto his face rubbing it slightly before drying it with a towel. Moving once more he glanced around the slightly messy flat and started to pick things up tossing old newspapers and tabloids into the trash can as there came a knock on the door. He rubbed his forearm slightly he should have really gone to have it checked out, but he wasn't in the mood last night. With a heavy sigh he breathed out "Just a minute.." form shifted tucking one of his sigs into the back of his slacks as he moved across the floor to the door. He didn't bother looking into the peep hole and he unlocked the door pulling it open some. But upon gazing at the sight to greet him he whishes he would have looked. "Well look at what the darkness' dragged in. Come to return the bike or pay for it?" a brow arched slightly and he moved taking his hand off the door moving farther into the room picking up something set across the table. "Since your 'ere..you can deliver this to Jackie. Still nice and sharp for next time he wants to try and run it through me." He set the sword on its point leaning the handle against the wall at the door while his phone beeped and began to ring 'God Save the Queen' it seemed he was popular tonight. And his fingers moved flipping open the phone "Sheridan.."
Sara was sipping the second glass of tequila, and as she tossed a few bills onto the counter the bartender pushed them back. "On the house Pez. you look like you need it." His smile was small and reassuring, but Sara didn't feel the warmth. Her orbs of green cast toward the crack of pool balls in the corner, just as the voice of Sheridan cut though. "Terry. hi it's Pezzini. Sara. I wanted to talk to you before your flight left. Is this a bad time?" she winced hoping he wouldn't say yes, but realizing that this was a rough time for him too. After all he came here for Lara, and she chose Jackie. Sara thought over her options, home. home was fine, back to the 9 to 5 late nights and TV dinners. Hey where else could she see an infomercial of spray hair in a can? Fuck that. Sara wasn't about to go back to the Tyler Durden lifestyle, she needed a break from the rigors of cop life. Ok then where else? I could always just do the 'get on the bike and let the road take me where it will' thing. She sighed, it felt too much like quitting, after all she wasn't Wolverine. now there was a piece of work. She took another long draught of tequila, the ice clinking in the glass.
Lara waited, glowing green eyes staring intently at the door. Finally it opened and it seemed Terry was in a rather good mood," Hello Terry." A bit of a smile crossed her lips," To return it." She stepped inside looking around a moment. The door had been left open exposing the bike to the Ex- Spy's gaze as Lara stood near the middle of the room," I should have listened to you." Why had she just admitted this? Because she had too," Things might've turned out differently." But there was also that chance they wouldn't have also," And I'm sorry, sorry for pulling you into the mess." The glowing eyes shut, disappearing behind thick lashes as she grew into silence a moment," Yes, Jackie will glad to have that back." It was a beautiful sword, Lara carefully picked it up looking it over, examining the details of it's hilt work. Engraved on the blade was the symbol of the Darkness like on her gun and the bullets inside it," I...I have something for you." Lara of course had the famed gun on her person, she carried it always now. Slender hands lifted it, and exposed the clip taking a golden bullet engraved with the Darkness symbol from it and sat it on a table between herself and Terry," Something to remember me by." Silent foot falls moved her closer to Sheridan as she leaned up placing a kiss on his cheek," So in a way I will always be with you." She figured it was the best thing she could do for all the trouble she had caused him," If you're ever in New York again stop by hmm?" The Angel of Darkness turned now and moved to walk away, pausing at the door, " I'll never forget you Terry Sheridan, after all you were my best shag." A hint of laughter to her voice and more tears, she never moved a hand to wipe them away as she seemed to disappear from the door and into the shadows as it was. Lara had come to terms with life now, one chapter was drawing to a close another opening for her and where it would take her not even the power she possesses truly knows. She turned around a moment to gaze at the apartment feeling much like Lot's Wife before moving to walk slowly away, Jackie's sword in hand.
Pausing for a moment he watched Lara's movements as she entered the room after he moved from the door. "..Lara." he breathed as she said hello to him. Form shifted dropping one shoulder against the wall glancing out the see the bike, and wires falling some. "You don't expect me to -pay- for you hi-jacking my bike do you, Tomb Raider?" brows arched upwards towards her. And arms crossed some over his bare chest while the open shirt moved. "Yes well..that would 'ave been too much to ask you listening to me. Next time I suppose I'll just 'ave to knock you out cold. Sure you might kick my arse after it..but it'd be an easier way of keeping you out of the trouble that always finds you. Well can't keep me out of things when your involved, now can we Lara." He had pushed from the wall moving looking at her studying the sword. And then she moved placing a bullet on the table. "Right and where exactly am I supposed to keep that? Besides I've plenty of things to remember you Croft. I don't forget easily.. " he shifted picking up the bullet and placing it in his pocket. " 'ell I even 'ave something to remember Jackie by. Though I'd rather forget that detail." Fingers moved pulling pack the left side of the black button down shirt exposing the scar that still ran deep in his upper chest below his collarbone. When she moved he stopped some "Lara Croft your acting as if it's the end of the world and your never going to see me again. It's not that easy to lose a spy." There was a slight smile as she said words that had gotten her angry at him and a slap "Well..another one could be arraigned. Not like Jackie's much use to you. One slip up and you've a dead Mister Mafia." He joked coyly before listening to the phone. Another woman's voice was on the other end and he knew who it belonged to. " Come now -bird- 'ow many times 'ave I talked to you like this, hm? Wouldn't think I'd forget the sound of your voice." He paused was it a bad time. Eyes moved after the Tomb Raider as she turned taking the sword leaving. Still there was a bit of silence from him until his lips parted British accent falling once again "..No.."
Just as she heard herself ask the question the voice of a woman in the background. this was a bad time. Shit. Sara felt like a heel. Her lips pressed together as she pushed up from her stool pressing the small cell phone harder into her hear so she could hear over the din of the bar. She rummaged though the army duffel bag grabbing a bottle of anti depressants prescribed to her by the psyche department. 'Do not mix with alcohol' Too late now she thought, popping her recommended dosage. "You sound busy. really busy" Sara would recognize that laugh anywhere. The Archeologist and sometimes Photojournalist Lara Croft would stand out like a sore thumb with that laugh. Was her friend playing the field? Simply lying to her about the whole Jackie thing? After all if she really loved that son of a bitch what was she doing over there? Woah. slow down there Pez are you Jealous? Her mind boggled at the notion. "Look I just wanted to let you know I was gonna be out of town for a while. the Captain put me on extended leave. If you get a chance before your flight I was gonna offer to buy you a beer, but it sounds like you have other plans." Detective Pezzini wasn't born yesterday, and she wasn't drunk enough to let the proverbial wool pulled over her eyes. She finished the second glass of tequila and stood to leave. "Hey Pez. you aint goin' no where after downing two drinks like that!" the Bartender shouted stumbling past a few crates and whatnot to the hinged countertop.
She wasn't far enough away that she couldn't hear the man's words. Her face fell," No. Not the end of the world, but a part of me still died last night Terry." Suddenly the little black demon appeared and Lara gave it the sword," Take this to the Dojo, put it in Jackie's office." She didn't want to carry that thing around all night, slowly the Brit turned around again," Here." She removed some money from her pockets," I almost forgot about that, I don't much feel like tinkering with it myself." She held the money out to him, eying the phone," Sara." She knew who it was, who else would it be? She studied Sheridan a moment, her senses overly keen now more then ever," Prehaps you should have listened to yourself and done it in the first place. Knocked me out." Arms folded slightly as she leaned against the doorjam now. She had nothing else planned tonight and sleep seemed not forth coming anytime soon at all. A hint of a smile as her eyes seemed to flicker a moment," No, things like that are not easy to forget." She looked to the scar," Mine is gone. I'm seamingly perfect now." She shook her head," No, Jackie and I cannot experance the simple pleasures of life true. Maybe for once it might be a good thing for me, to be in a relationship without the sex." She held a soft smile on her full lips," Anyhow I belong to him now in a sense, he'd know and I doubt you'd live to tell the tale of how you scored it with an Angel of Darkness." Slender hands rested now in her pockets, she seemed different changed and more at easy with herself and her emotions. She had missed the no part of his phone conversation it seemed, or simply chose to ignore it none the less," Becareful when it comes to Sara, you think Mr Hitman is bad with Sara you have Mr Assassin afterall he killed Irons once for her." Poor terry no luck with women this time at all was there? Lara thought silently to herself. )," Well if you're going to go see her I'll be on my way seeing as I'm now Sara's mortal enemy or rather The Witchblade's just like Jackie." She would wait for his answer this time," However I'll be wandering about if you want to find me that is unless you're not going." The eerie glowing pupils stared at the moon now awaiting some reply from the ex-spy.
What was the spy supposed to do? Some how interesting twists always seemed to present themselves in his life, just like now. And he watched Lara move giving the sword to a darkling and he scowled slightly. He didn't like the ruddy beasts. Moving forwards he took the money and gave her back some of it "I owed you a new pair of pants.." he stopped still holding the phone looking towards Lara. "Well..it wouldn't have killed you to listen to me for once. But we all make our own choices..and tying you down was mine. Can't change the past." He listened to the phone a moment. "I'm not sure you could call it busy..my Ducatti was given back.." still he paused watching Lara. "I've a few other things to take care of before I fly back to London..I changed my flight to tomorrow night. And is sounds as though your already 'aving yourself a drink, love.." He breathed out and pulled the phone from his ear some pressing it against his shoulder. Looking towards Lara "Well..if you hadn't ruddy been yelling at me almost every time we were together..it's not like 'e doesn't want me dead anyway..that just be one more thing on 'is list." There was a heavy sigh and he shifted again. The phone was lifted once again to his ear as he walked slightly around his flat still watching Lara "..Well its good your taking a break, even if it is partly forced. You need it..we all do.." he pause again What was he going to do? Go meet Sara who seemed to have only him to trust. Or Lara who for once was being civil towards him. And Lara spoke of the Witchblade, he knew it. Both woman who'd risked to keep the other safe were now torn apart. But Lara was Jackie's now and how could he compete with that? Jackie had given her life again. but his eyes were focused on Croft. She had asked if he was going to stay or leave, and his movement stopped some. "Can I call you in fifteen?"
A brow arched," If you hadn't pushed my buttons then I never would have yelled at you." Her tone did not rise, nor did it fall oddly it remained the same as it had been since she entered his apartment," I figured you would be leaving soon. Again sorry to have ruined your holiday dahling." Arms folded and she stepped into the place again, much like a deja vu experance. Lara had just done this once already. Arms folded as she leaned against the wall," Yes he does what you dead, but I don't." She seemed to be implying that she could spare Terry's life and so she was )," I can't do much against him phyiscally or mentally, but I can have my way when it comes to the subject matter of my friends lifes." The glowing orbs were casted downwards," Execpt her's. I cannot bargin or beg him for Sara's life anymore then my own when we meet again. I am on the otherside of the coin now Terry." In curiousty she narrowed her gaze slightly," Hm. What do you need just fifteen minutes for?" Still the same Lara, curious, sarcastic, smart in all sense of the word and brash as ever. Daring too, always daring. She would wait for his reply with a curious gaze about her indeed, though my you several ideas came to mind of what one could do in fifteen minutes.
She was downtrodden. It was apparent that Terry and Lara were far from over; at least from the bits of the conversation she had caught... something about shagging and whatnot. Sara was acting juvenile. This was no time to think about her sex life, or complete lack there of. Call me in fifteen huh? Yeah this was a really bad time to call. What were you thinking Pez? He's not interested. "Sure. Fine. Whatever. Say hi to Lara for me would ya? Gotta say I'm gonna miss that girl." Sara swallowed glaring to the bartender. "Sean. Let me pass I'm fine!" He folded his arms across his massive chest. "Not on your life Pezzini. Sit down." Sara grumbled, "Oh and you can let her know that Jackie?. yeah he's going down for murder one. I don't give a shit what he calls himself at night; I'm tired of falsifying police reports to save his ass from exposure. "Sara clicked the phone shut, turned to Sean and punched him square in the face breaking his nose. "Try me." She cursed picking up her bag and walking out.
