Lady Lara Croft finished brushing down the coat of her prized black stallion – Triumph and peered up at the clock overhanging the stable's entrance and exit. Their five a.m. ride together had been, as always, exhilarating. To her there was nothing on this earth that was compatible or as beautiful to spending 90-minutes galloping across her dew covered pastures as fragments of the sun broke over the horizon. Then watching the warmth of the sunlight as it pierced the morning mist, observing the vapours gently burn away into the crisp post-dawn air. Once upon a time this was a joy she never truly took any pleasure in; she would do these morning rides as a matter of course as it was the only time she had in the day to take advantage of them. Typically she would ride Triumph full boor through her land and around obstacles whilst practicing her marksmanship. The dawn silence would be broken with the echoing sounds from a shotgun, rifle, crossbow or her ever reliable twin Desert Eagles being fired repeatedly across the solitary expanse of her private land.
A small chuckle rose up in the Tomb Raider's throat at this memory of herself from years past. It still amazed her how the simple affections of a good and genuine man could have in cooling the heated blood of one of Britain's original 'Wild Children'. Taking a moment to reflect on who she once 'was' and comparing it to the woman she now 'is', she had to admit she would not have her transformation any other way. And she suspected deep down, given how much he seemed to now equally enjoy their rides together, neither would Triumph. This was the only guilty pleasure she shared with others of her gentry-station in life and it was one, she had to admit, she would not give up for all of the Jewels in the Tower of London.
Placing the brush on the shelf beside his stall entrance as she led him in, she walked the large quadruped around to his feed trough. As Triumph buried his enormous head into his morning meal, Lara patted and stroked the beast's coat with affection. "You know in a couple of month's I won't be able to ride you anymore, at least not for a while. You're going to have to get your daily exercise from either Henry or Bryce."
At the mention of the last name the black behemoth raised it's head in mid-consumption and looked directly at it's mistress, his expression to her eyes at least, seemed one that was almost 'human' in nature and full of sinister-bemusement at the suggestion of the techno-geek once more climbing on to his back. Lara couldn't help but laugh as she now recalled in her mind the last time Bryce had attempted to master the skill of horse riding. She allowed her gentile laugh to stifle itself as her memories flowed further to the week that had followed this failed effort. Of seven days of complaints that bellowed endlessly from his uncouth gob about the bruises and aches he had earned from repeatedly falling off Triumph's back mid-trot and his claims that 'that bleedin 'effin' Horse had it in for him'.
There was no doubt that she treasured her own 'dysfunctional family' in the same way that her Alexander obviously valued his. Though she sincerely doubted that the twerpish-'little-brother' of hers harboured the same romantic intentions for her as Alex's 'sisters' obviously did for him. When she was chatting with Henry at the end of the previous evening, she had felt confident and secure that despite the obstacles she had now willingly placed in front of both her and Alex's love that his affection for her would endure. That he would chose her over the sisterly rivals. But eight-hours seemed now such a long time ago and after a night of restless sleep and a mild case of morning sickness she now felt less confident and the less 'attractive' a prospect to the beautiful Californian pair presently slumbering. Yet it was 'one' particular Californian sister in this pair that was causing most of the tossing-and-turning of the former night.
The one named 'Buffy' should not have even have rated as a 'blip' on her radar. After all, it was the younger sister, Dawn, who was the focus of her 'rivalry'. Big Sister Buffy was just part of the package-deal, the fact that she was a Slayer and someone from Alex's past was just something she had accepted without concern. But last night, Lara, had heard the torn-loneliness and regret in the other's voice as she spoke of her absent friend 'Xander' and of her distain at having argued and then doubting him prior to 'Xander' choosing his independent life of adventure in Africa. The blonde's voice carried in it a longing that was unmistakable to her Ladyship ears as it was that same wistful and lonely tone she had employed many times over the past several months when speaking to either Henry or Bryce over how much she missed the caress of 'her man'.
It was because of this substitution of new information that provoked an unhappy case of interrupted slumber as she fiercely fought her recall on all 'Buffy' related topic's that ever left Alexander's lips. In the several hours of darkness, when sleep should have been her priority, she found herself trying to force from her memory every discussion Alex had had with her about the fair-haired Slayer and trying to glimmer any subtle tell from those stored conversations that would betray more to their camaraderie then just …. 'Friendship'.
There was no denying that Buffy was beautiful, probably not as 'ample' in certain famine areas as her sister or herself, but then again that was why God invented Plastic Surgeon's. This aside however she could not deny a 'quality' for attraction there. A no-nonsense attitude and take-charge demeanour within the blonde that she knew would have appealed to a softer aspect of Alexander. After all, Alex by his own admission stated he had always had a partiality to 'strong-minded' women. A truth she could not deny, because if he didn't then she doubted he would have been able to tolerate her taking charge as many times as she did in the past with their various escapades.
But when she started to recount the stories in her mind of his 'Scooby' days and of his various musing involving 'Buffy', she had to now admit there were gaps in his various tales. Ones which though were not obvious were still very much shy in certain detail. Especially when compared to some of his anecdotes involving other members of his 'family'. He could speak with casualness and calm on all these other identities and not miss a single beat, but with the fair-haired Slayer, she now had to concede he always seemed to take an abundance of care. Often pausing too juggle a phrase or description, as though he was trying to be truthful without coming across as either bias or disagreeable.
This 'care' he offered in describing the blonde Vampire Slayer had never caused her to wonder, or even wish, to delve deeper into the nature of this woman or her association with him. But now? Now, she regretted this respect. Because now she was left wondering on the nature of Alex's avoidance. Was his reluctance to share personal information about the adventures they participated in due to the pain she caused him three-years earlier, or to the pain he feels towards being reminded of her? And if this was so then it usually meant that feelings that could be so powerfully damaged were usually ones that also ran deeper then most others.
It was these type of simple and unanswered questions that had aided in promoting the occasional yawns thus far this morning, and it were these questions that were also forcing her to pose too herself just how deep did Alexander's feelings for the Slayer plunge?
She had for some time suspected that one of the reasons behind Alex's desire not to make their Union an official one wasn't due to the respect he had claimed he possessed for the Chieftain who had performed the ceremony. And even though she knew that Alex counted the Tribal Leader as a close friend, she also knew that the Chieftain would not have held any ill-feelings if she and Alex *did* seek a Marriage Certificate to help support his ceremony. After all, it was only a local ritualistic ceremony used on Tourist's couples who were willing to separate themselves from 300 US Dollars, and one that was not recognised beyond the borders of the Village it-self. It was for many only a Holiday-Lark, an exotic experience for holiday-makers to have and share in. One that they could brag to all their friends and family when they returned back from their various Safari Vacations of how 'outrageous, spontaneous and unique' they allowed themselves to be. It wasn't something that those who had partaken ever truly took seriously. Unless of course your name happened to be Alexander Harris. If you went by A. L. Harris then you tended to take whatever oaths and promises you make to others more seriously then you do your next breath of air. So to be then asked to repeat those very same oaths in another configuration and in another venue, perhaps a Church and in front of a Priest, well, if you were Alexander Harris, you would consider repeating such vows a second-time an 'insult' to your character.
At least that was always the 'fall-back' on this rationale. The whole 'don't you trust me?' sidestep. It didn't really seem to matter that he obviously had not told anyone from his 'Family' about the two of them yet. Even though they have been romantically involved with one another for close to two-years. Heavens, if she didn't believe his love was so genuine then she would have been led to believe that he was actually ashamed.
But who was he really ashamed of? That was the question of the hour.
She tried this argument once a year ago when she offered to contact Mr Giles and have him around to her home for a dinner in order to introduce herself. But he assured her that her offence at being 'kept a secret' was misplaced. So if it wasn't her he was ashamed of then that only left one other party in this equation - himself. But why? Did he think she was too good for him? And if he did then why did he believe this? Or was there perhaps another reason?
To date, Alex's efforts in avoiding the 'are-we-really-married' issue had been, as always, in and of itself comical and therefore to her slightly forgivable. Forgivable to a point that is. He would behave much like a child trying to avoid a compliment, deflecting and then weaving his words to parallel subjects that might defuse the issue. In her mind it only meant that, like a small child, he possibly harboured some insecurity and doubts of his own worth. Doubt's that there would ever be someone out there in the Big, Bad and Messy World who could actually love him. So for harmony sake she played the 'game' his way, letting him off load the subject and not pester him as much as her heart desired her too. But time, unfortunately, was now playing against the pair.
Lara offered herself a small and sad smile as she watched Triumph once again resume eating his feed. This should have been one of the happiest times of her life. She was with a man she adored and trusted and she was with child, *his* child. And she knew deep in her heart that this unborn cherub would be both healthy and as happy as any son or daughter could possibly be. But instead of being permitted to be 'happy' she was receiving edicts from dear Aunty 'Liz' to determine if the father of her future-offspring was a 'Stayer' or a 'Player'. It was enough to give a person an ulcer. But as troublesome as all this was, she had to admit it was trouble worth enduring. Because if her long range plan came to fruition it meant that Alex would emerge a stronger, happier and a more confident person and that she would never have to doubt the strength of his love ever again.
She was now mid-way through her second month of pregnancy; as such she was still able to safely conceal the swell of growth around her abdomen. But in another month the life growing within her would be more visible for the public to view. So whether he wanted to or not in the up coming weeks, Alex would have to confront his 'worthiness'. He could no longer play the role of a 'small child' when the topic of their future together arises. He had to make a decision of whether or not he wanted to be a *real* husband and not just play the role whenever her adventures permitted her to visit South Africa. It was time for him to grow up and ask himself what it was he wanted in this life. No more self-doubts. No more recriminations.
For once she wanted him to be selfish, not selfless. She wanted him to look at her and then *command* her to be his and no one else. But that was the trouble; Alex always put other people before himself. He never asked of anything, he always waited until it was offered.
Why couldn't his courage flow into all areas of his personality? She had witnessed Alex run blindly into a fire fight with only a tin-opener as a weapon. Seen him calmly tread and navigate around a pride of ravenous Lion's whilst carrying an injured and bleeding Gazelle. Even observed his tolerances for her infamous 'stew-surprise', but when the issue did not require as much 'nerve' or courage and topic's strayed towards discussions of 'the future' and his 'intentions', or other intimate subjects he would break into a mess of fumbling-excuse-driven-babble that would almost make you feel sorry for him.
Alexander Harris was to her mind the 'Ideal' and there did not seem to be any part of him that didn't compliment and fill every deficiency or emptiness in her life with ease. When she was feeling low, he could make her feel happy. When she would become too Quest-orientated he could give her perspective. And when she felt no one could understand her he would say something completely innocent that would prove this belief wrong. Alexander Harris had become in a lot of ways, her 'redemption' in this life.
Prior to her 'Alex'-days she was living the life of her own hype and legend. Lara 'The Tomb Raider' Croft had earned herself an unhealthy reputation of taking things to the extremes. And it was because of this chosen lifestyle that she rarely ever thought about the consequences of what 'tomorrow' would be able to offer her. She lived solely in the moment and embracing a pathetic and lonely philosophy of never allowing the grass to grow beneath her feet. But ever since that fateful day when she met Alex she found herself changing, subtly at first, but the change was a welcome one. He taught her to no longer *live* in the collection of moments but rather to *appreciate* every given second and freedom offered. That 'Living' and 'Life' were two completely different concepts and through his affection she learned to enjoy both.
During the moon-heavy nights when they would cuddle besides a random campfire, digesting her 'stew'. He would wax philosophical concepts and demonstrate an insight of the World and the Universe that would put Socrates to shame. Entertaining her and confusing her both with his unique perspective on life. He was the only man she knew who could talk for hours, chatting about the dynamics of the Muppet Show characters and make plausible comparisons. Even though she slightly resented to the Miss Piggy appraisal, as long as he always remained her Kermit, she didn't care how often he called her that name … as long as it was in private in not public.
And where once she doubted she could have tolerated spending more then five-minutes sitting still pondering nothing. She could now easily spend hours in content silence watching and admiring a distant horizon turn from day, to dusk, and from dusk to night as the man of her heart sat in equal silence besides her. He helped her see and appreciate the beauty around her and now she saw it in nearly everything.
As these memories stirred, Lara, allowed herself to push down the earlier troublesome thoughts. She blushed as words that were spoken only to her ears now seemed to whisper anew and echo in her mind. Words of both affection and tenderness that she was confident were *never* spoken to anyone but her. Never in her wildest dreams did she ever think that a simple off-road accident could have had such a profound impact on her romantic life. But then again the same could probably have been said about Alex as well. Lord knows years ago when they first met they both weren't in any state of mind to seek any romantic entanglement. But sometimes Fate plays sport with people's hearts and that's exactly what happened. Fate took both their hands and entangled them together and she hadn't wanted to let go of his since that wonderful day.
Lara again returned to stroking the coat of the black stallion as she allowed herself to become lost in contemplation. 'Romantic Baggage' was never something she dwelled too much on, Lara had known that Alexander had several relationships over the years and that he admitted that none had ever fared well or reflected positively upon him at their culmination. The first girlfriend he said he had he ended up cheating on with another who he had lured away, temporarily, from a person whom he had judged as a close-friend. Even to this day he says that he was unsure of what the true motivations behind the pseudo-affair were other then it was to address a curiosity of the pair's growing attraction of the other. The other 'love-of-his-life' he abandoned at the alter and then lost to death's icy touch.
True, it wasn't the most favourable of backgrounds. A self-confessed 'cheater', 'cad' and 'ditcher'. But in all these cases he was following the dictates of his heart, and for that she could not really condemn without appearing hypocritical to her own collection of misdeeds. She was, after all, hardly in any position to cast an accusing finger given her own 'colourful life' of going from one lover to another. Infact, compared to some of the things she had done, Alex, came off looking like an alter boy. Even to this very day she's still not permitted to set foot upon Vatican Ground without a contingent of very strict Nun's acting as her 'shadow'. The sad truth is that they had both done things in their previous lives with their past 'partners' that would reflect poorly on both of them. Though she had to admit that what she did with Father Hagen in the catacombs below the Sistine Chapel was nearly completely worth grief it later caused her. The brazen difference however between their separate 'histories' is that with Alex neither of the women at the end of their association with him ever sincerely harboured him any long-term ill will. This small fact that they all continued to maintain their association and friendships with him after their break-up spoke volumes to the impact he must have had in their lives. Most of *her* 'ex's' would shoot first, second, three times, reload, *then* say 'how's life treating you?' But regretfully Alex could not see that, at least not in the same manner that she could. All he could see was the lives he had injured because of his selfishness. A selfishness that she had yet to ever see herself.
Affectionately Lara rubbed her stomach once more, now more a compulsion then a wilful act. And as always with this tender and physical inclusion she couldn't stop a smile from creeping over her face even during these more morose moments as she acknowledged that within her was a life born of love taking form. Under extreme circumstances and confident in her assurances to Henry and Bryce she did not possess a single doubt that should he become aware of her condition, Alex, would not hesitate to 'do the right thing'. But that was something she was unwilling to explore and no amount of prompting from Henry would get her to change her mind. She did not wish to use their unborn child as leverage to force an 'official' marriage from him. She wanted him to enter her life with eyes well opened to the love that already existed and not feel as though he had been 'trapped' by the existence of a 'third life'. Lara Croft did not compromise, nor was she anyone's charity case. She would not beg, plead or bargain, even though in her eyes Alex was well worth all three.
As her Ladyship continued to rub her belly she temporarily allowed her mind to drift towards the second Summer's sister. Dawn Summer's was initially to have been her only contender for Alex's heart at least that was the original strategy. A couple of months earlier she had secretly observed the extent of the younger sibling's affection to an unconscious Alex in the Botswana Hospital. She had seen the sister's tears and heard the raked voice as she pleaded an unconscious Alexander to wake up from his surgery and to survive the brutality that was inflicted upon him.
It was a heart breaking spectacle for her to witness, to see another woman's tears flow endlessly over the bed of her lover. But it encouraged her a month later to learn more about this 'rival', so she approached Dawn's collection of Professor's at Oxford. In these exchanges with the various Don's she discovered the calibre of person and student they had all thought her to be. It was not really surprising for her to discover that many educator's of the younger Summer's expressed admiration towards the academic. The adventurer had even secretly step into one of her classes and observed the youthful scholar's interactions with Professor Crawford when she found out said Oxford Master was going to hold a Lecture on the Myth and Fact of the Amazonian Tribe. Something that, for present and obvious reasons, she thought might prove enlightening to the preparations of her current adventure plans. In that Lecture Hall she was privileged to see a fierce, and surprisingly polite, exchange between the 'old and the new' modes of thinking as Dawn opposed her Professor in healthy debate.
Everything that she discovered about the young Oxford student only impressed her and compelled her heart to believe that if she was to lose Alexander to anyone she would have willingly accepted his loss to someone like Dawn Summer's. Dawn was clever, witty, sensitive, genuine, caring, respectful, charming and also very … 'girl next door' pretty. But most of all it was obvious that Dawn Summer's cared very deeply for Alexander. And she also knew from his past stories that Alex also harboured a deep and genuine affection for the chestnut haired beauty himself.
But Buffy … well, that was a tiger of a different stripe altogether. What she knew of this 'feline' was far more limited, sketchy and solely dependant upon the carefully constructed opinions of Alex. And this annoyed her. Looking back now she had to admit that Alex's account to her of their 'falling-out' should have set the alarm-bells ringing in her mind. After all, a friendship forged in life and death are ones, from her experience, that are not so easily shattered by a few cruel and inconsiderate words. Unless, of coarse, those words were deeply personal ones. Reflectively, Lara had to confess that she felt more threatened by what *wasn't* said by him towards the Slayer: 'Buffy Summers' then that which *was*.
So when Dawn volunteered to enlighten her during the dessert portion of their evening meal, and after Buffy had departed the dining room to the true nature of this disagreement, well, it went a long way in explaining the sensitive features on the Slayer's face as she had left the room. Buffy had probably long given up on the fact that their 'rift' could ever be repaired and had thereby chosen to isolate her hopes to always be on the outside looking in where he was concerned. After all, if there was one thing she could easily attest too it was this; Alex could keep a chip on his shoulder longer then nearly anyone. And if you ever found yourself on his 'bad' side then you could expect to remain there till the end-of-time with no chance of reprieve. His mulish attitude however did have some side-benefits, she knew from thrilling-experience that if you were in danger or under threat, that it was this same type of stubborn-determination that often proved to be a lifeline to your very survival. Even if it stood against the face of all reason or self-preservation on his end.
… Against all reason and self-preservation, ha!
If she had any common-sense she would send both Buffy and Dawn home and try and find some other way to get Alexander to realise how desirable he was. She certainly wouldn't subject him to such compelling competition. But as the saying goes, in for a Penny, in for a Pound. And if she was going to place Alex's love to the furnace with Dawn, then why not with Buffy as well? The more, after all, the merrier. At the very least it would offer two of their number some sense of closure and allow them to proceed with their lives, even though she doubted Alex would see it the exact same way as her.
For normal men to be objectified and competed for by three attractive women would be like a dream come true. Alexander Harris, however, was someone she had long since learned, was as far from the standard classification of 'normal' as she had ever met, and that was probably what first caught her attention. Though not 'classically handsome' in the traditional sense, Alex, did in a certain light possess an allure that would earn him a second and maybe even a third glance from many in the female fraternity. Whenever they would come into various Supply Depot to restock on the necessities, he certainly had more then his fair share giggling admirers. At the beginning of their 'association' she used to tease him about it. But it didn't take long for her to stop this practice as it was clear that there was something about this unwanted attention that stirred some troubling memory for him.
In her judgment some men scrubbed up better dressed in fatigues then penguin suits and Alex was certainly one of the former and not the later. Infact his 'sweaty-musk' was a greater aphrodisiac to her then any high-lined cologne she had ever sampled. And she had to admit that his eye-patch, the tiny scar across his upper lip and the way his hair whipped about when it was windy, he had a tendency to cut a very dashing figure.
On the far wall of the stable the telephone connecting itself to the main house screeched too life. With regret she patted the side of her steed and left his cubicle, fastening the door behind her. Swiftly she picked up the receiver and was met by the crisp and alert voice of her faithful Man-Servant, Henry.
Good Morning, Lara.
"Morning, Henry. Did you sleep well?"
Yes, very well, thank you. Just to inform you that for breakfast this morning I am preparing poached egg with side of bacon. If you are capable of providing me of an ETA of your return to the Manor House I can …
Lara looked about the stables, seeing what tasks needed to be completed before she could adjourn back to the Main House. "Of course. I've finish here now; after I have placed the saddle and bridle away and secured the stable I should be back in 10 to 15 give or take a couple of minutes."
Excellent, I'll start brewing the tea then. And FYI, our American Guest's are already up and about.
Lady Croft's eyebrow arched slightly. "Really? I figured them to be the sleep-in types. Did they say whether the room was to their satisfaction? I hope they slept well, I always find a strange bed to be an unsettling experience."
There was a brief hesitation before the butler offered an answer, and as always Henry offered the most diplomatic of responses. To be honest I'm not completely certain. I did enquire into the nature of their rest, but all I received was a very cryptic reply from the elder sister saying 'Like I didn't already know'. Most peculiar.
An amused smile stretched across the luscious bee-stung lips of the aristocrat. "Ahh. I think I understand. I suspect our guest's must have thought we would be as rude and low as to have them under night-time surveillance, Henry."
Night time surveillance? Inexcusable how these Colonial's mind's think. That we wouldn't have better things to do with our time other then to observe them resting. We're not *French*!
"Ah-ah, Henry, it's too early in the morning to be stirring up the old English verses French rivalry, so none of that. Even so with our minor *and* collective outrage as Host's aside, how are they both? Refreshed and rejuvenated I hope?"
I believe so. They have told me they have both had the opportunity to shower prior to coming downstairs. Considering they seemed to believe they were being spied upon, quite brave under the circumstances.
"That, or possibly they are both a pair of exhibitionists' who perhaps thought they were giving either yourself or Bryce a thrill. You can never tell with Californian's."
At any rate, I have assured them that I will transport them back to Oxford and London respectively after their morning breakfast if that suits them, and they have told me it does. But they do not intend to leave until they have had the opportunity of speak to yourself, Lady Croft. And I fear it has nothing to do with being the gracious Host.
Lara released a small bark of laughter at hearing what her faithful man-servant had relayed. "Are you telling me that I am being *summoned*? ME? That before they bother to leave my Manor Home, that they expect me to make myself available to them?"
Err. Yes, Lady Croft. That was the impression I received.
"I don't know whether I should be offended at their audacity or whether I should admire their gall?"
Regardless, Lara, they both made it clear they were very, *very* eager to speak with you. Especially the elder. And again I feel I must prepare you, but she was not at all impressed when I informed her that you were out at the time of her enquiry 'riding the grounds'.
"Really?"
Yes, I suspect from the whispered comments she made to her sister proceeding her request that she has decided, as the American's say, to 'Call you out' on the previous night's revelations.
"Well, I must say, it certainly does sound like the Wizard stopped in and delivered our guests a dose of Courage. About time. Last night was such a disappointment, not that I was expecting a food fight in the Main Dining Room mind you. Dawn is such a sweet thing and Buffy, well, it was pretty clear she was trying very hard to stay on her best behaviour. So despite a few 'honest' moments, I don't think I really got the chance to see who they really were behind the polite-masks they were both wearing for my benefit."
I have to agree, though I found Ms Dawn to be a positively charming young lady, she was making too much of an effort to be 'inoffensive'. I also noticed as I was serving dinner that Ms Buffy's mind seem quite distracted and not at all in the 'here-and-now'. A trait I also noted as I was driving her in last evening. She was looking out the window of the vehicle, but I truly doubt she was taking anything really in.
"Well, if what her sister told me last night can be relied upon, I suspect the Slayer's mind was straying into thought's of my Alexander, so please do not place that dejected look of hers to fears that your gravy last evening wasn't up to it's usual snuff."
Ahem. That Dinner was five-stars, six if you are willing to indulge the fact that I provided you and your guest's fresh strawberries when *strawberries* are presently out of season!
"Tut-tut, Henry. I was only teasing. It was splendid, as always. But that now leaves us in a predicament. The Slayer. We have no idea what her boundaries are? When does 'Buffy' start handing more control of herself and her actions over to the Slayer part of herself? Failing that question, is she able to manage herself at all? If I am to utilise the Chosen One in my upcoming adventure, I need to know the extent of self control Buffy possesses. My Forefather's Journal was quite specific, the longer the Slayer Spirit remained housed in its vessel the more the Chosen One and the Spirit's personality meshed with one another. And it is my understanding that with exception of … 'the other one', that Buffy Summer's is one of the longest serving in Watcher History. So I think it would be prudent to understand what Buffy's limits are, don't you?"
I see. Of course. Well, if we need to know her limitations then I believe the only recourse, under the circumstances, is to provoke and antagonise her in the most extreme way. But, Lara is that entirely wise? She has fought some challenging opponents in the past.
"So have I. But unlike her I have done so alone and without the level of support she has received."
That maybe true, but she has laid-low a God. An actual *God*, Lara.
"And I have successfully buried three-God-like-Beings, Henry." Lara raked her hand through her tangled and luscious hair, allowing a moment to pass before she readdressed her ever reliable man-servant's concerns. "Look, it's sweet that you are worried for me, but don't be. I'm not planning on turning this into World War Three. Besides, she maybe a Slayer, but she's nothing special. She can be hurt and killed. And she has died *twice* already."
Exactly. And comeback to life.
"Yes, granted, she's indeed formidable even in the face of Death. But that does not mean she is unstoppable. Slayers are just more hardy then ordinary people. If it comes down to fist-cuffs it will be a simple case of skill verses experience."
Really? Which one will you be?
"Alex said that every Slayer possesses the same weakness and it's that weakness that always gets them either hurt or dead."
And what, may I ask, weakness is that?
"Over-Confidence. Over-Confidence in that regardless of any opponent they may face, that they perceive themselves as the better fighter."
Pardon me for saying this, Lara, but isn't that *your* shortcoming as well?
"Yes, but the difference is that I already know this. And as Sun Tzu loosely said, know yourself and know your enemy and a hundred battles are already won. I know my weakness and strength, as well as hers. So I have the home field advantage."
I'm sorry, Lara, it's just given your present condition I would much prefer it if you did not place yourself in any jeopardy. One sound blow to your stomach from a woman with her strength and … and I think any plan on your part to intentionally rile her would prove to be a grave error.
Even though she knew Henry could not see her, she surrendered a grateful and serine smile at the depths of his worry for both her and her unborn child. "To be honest, Henry, given what you have already said, I suspect that *she* will be the one who will be trying to antagonise *me*. Like a yapping Terrier, I fear I will have to swat her nose with a rolled up Times Newspaper: Weekend Edition, in order to get her to behave appropriately."
But again I ask is such a 'swatting' truly necessary? Is there no other way we can accomplish this goal without placing your well-being at risk?
"Necessary? Probably not. But it will be fun and I promise to be careful."
Very well, if you feel obligated to do this damn rash thing, can I at least go on record and express my stern reservations towards this plan of action?
"You may."
And if in the event of the unthinkable happens and she fails to control her … Slayer Impulses, will her Ladyship be averse to receiving a 'I told you so' and immediately withdraw from the confrontation?
"Have you no confidence in me, Henry?"
In yourself? Limitless. In her? Very little I'm afraid.
"Very well. The moment I see blood-lust in her eyes I will excuse myself and consider the experiment as a failure."
That's all I ask. Err, Lara, if she *does* fail, what should we do? Move onto the other candidate?
"I … let's not count Buffy out just yet, she might surprise me. So I'd prefer it if we dismiss thinking of her 'replacement' as a viable option at present. Besides, she is supposed to be in New York City. To contact and arrange transport at this short notice might be a tad inconvenient, don't you think?" There was an uncomfortable pause on the other end of the line, one that Lara couldn't help but take note of and dread towards the implications.
Suddenly, and almost forcibly the middle-aged butler reacted, obviously realising the unintentional lapse in silence that had followed after his Mistress had finished speaking. It's only a six-hour flight, barely a piddle. And looking at the larger picture, wouldn't it be better to have Ms Faith on-board as a resource if for no other reason then to confirm everything we learn from Ms Buffy as accurate? One Slayer on this expedition is a benefit, two would be …
"…Tempting fate." Lara concluded Henry's sentence as her luscious eyelashes lowered over her eyes. Her grip tightening upon the receiver in her hand. "Faith Lehane has a history with Alex. One that I feel would not make her a sound fit for this expedition."
Excuse me, Lady Croft, but can't the same be said for either Ms Dawn and Ms Buffy as well? Infact given on what we recently learned last evening, Ms Buffy's separation from Master Harris's life makes her a more problematic choice, wouldn't you think?
Lara surrendered a soft exhale before joining her reliable man-servant in debate. "That maybe so, but the choice is still mine and I have made it. If Buffy proves herself reliable then I would want her to participate in this search. And what will happen, will happen."
Henry responded, his tone more firm then she had heard of him over the past several years. That's the danger in mixing business with personal matter's, Lara. Sometimes you rarely get a choice. So what will take precedence? Finding the Tribal Ground of the fabled Amazon race or the successful seduction of Master Alexander?
"What a poposterous question."
I don't think so. The reality is that you have invested far more effort thus far into this little 'Honey-Trap' Project of yours then to the actual Operation itself. And if you don't mind me saying, but didn't Ms Faith once play a very significant role in the most memorable temptation of his life? So for you to overlook her now… *
"She's a harlot, Henry."
Granted, her history with men is quite colourful. The intelligence we have acquired suggests that she goes from one to another on whim and fancy. But her judgement, or rather lack thereof, is not one in which you can point the finger at and condemn. I recall more then one ill-suited latharo I have had to usher out of the Manor because you woke up with little or no recollection of what proceeded the night before activities. To designate her as a Harlot places your own sordid and youthful history in peril.
"Well she is, and a foolish one at that. Not that I'm truly complaining. Infact the reality is that I feel sorry for that piece of … of … oh dear." Lara caught herself before she started to descend to unflattering comparisons that she had always felt were very much beneath her. "I'm beginning to sound quite 'catty', aren't I?"
Just a trifle.
"Well … it's deserved. Well, maybe not *exactly* deserved but certainly warranted. If she had more then two brain cells to rub together she would never have let a fish like Alex slip from her net."
But she did, and Master Alexander moved on. In short Lara, she is no threat to you.
"Maybe. But it doesn't change the fact that if Alexander was to ever shift his affections to anyone I would want and hope that person be someone deserving of them. Myself, definitely. Dawn, possibly. Buffy … stranger things have happened. But that woman? No. Over my dead body, no! I would never allow him to debase himself once more and submit to some … some tramp who would look upon his love as only a temporary distraction. That, Henry, I will not permit to ever happen! Ms Lehane gives all the women who have had the opportunity to earn a small place in his heart a bad reputation by just the mere association. So I would be grateful if you do not mention her name to me ever again."
There was an awkward pause, one that's silence revealed the 'taken-aback' attitude of the middle-aged male. I … see. Lady Croft, I have been in your employ for over 15-years. And I have learned never to question or doubt you, even when you are at your worst you are still better then any one person I have ever had the privilege to meet. But with all the extraordinary effort undertaken by yourself with respects towards this man, and given the pregnancy, it is becoming increasingly difficult for Bryce and myself to understand what makes him 'so special' to you. Though Bryce and I are in accord that in the few opportunities we have shared your adventures with him that he is acquitted himself quite well. Proving to be reliable, honest, courageous, amusing, clever. Certainly not the usual 'look at me the wrong way and I'll tear your eyes out' type of gentlemen that you used to hook up with. And despite Bryce's occasional Ghana nightmare, we both think him to be quite admirable. But these are our reason's, romantic rubbish aside, what are yours? To date you have never shared these thoughts with either of us. I realise it is not my place and I apologise in advance, but I have watched you grow into being the woman you are, and yes, I can certainly see elements existing in Master Harris that your late father would approve of. But *why* do you love him? I *need* to know!
Lara paused for a moment, and considered her words carefully as well as their weight of them. Justifying her affections for Alex to Henry would be a great deal more difficult then 'Aunt Liz'. Henry, afterall knew her a lot better. It was true, neither Henry or Bryce had ever challenged her on this question before. So after offering a tranquil sigh into the receiver she spoke the words without any thought to their meaning.
"I'm not going to try and explain it to you, Henry. Because the truth is I can't. All I can say is that the more I learned about him the more I wanted to know, and the more I knew the happier I became. From the very first moment we met I got some sense that he knew me, the real me. I was just Lara to him. Not Lara Croft or Lady Croft, to him I wasn't even 'The Tomb Raider'. It was like I was being seen for the very first time in my entire life. Seen and not judged. Not leered at, or being pidgin holed as a Poor-little-Rich Girl who was overcompensating for the fact that her Daddy had been burdened with a daughter instead of a son.
"Every man who has ever been in my life has always seen what they wanted, and to be honest Henry, I have always let them. Because their various preconceptions of me always gave me an advantage. But with Alex? He sees me, Henry. All of me. From the start there was a strange attraction there, and eventually we began to 'dance' around one-another. I teased, he flirted. But at no point did I believe I was ever getting the upper hand in our compitition. He dodged every Parry and visa versa. It was like we were in perfect and beautiful synch with the other. After a while I just stopped trying to be 'better' then everybody else and just started to be just 'me'."
I understand … actually no I don't. You love him because he is able to … *see* you? I'm sorry, but that makes no sense, Lara.
"I can't think of any other way to describe it, Henry. I can be myself around him. I don't have to put on any guise, like being Ms 'never a single hair out of place' Perfection. When I'm with him I feel that I can be permitted to make the odd small mistake and not let the 'trademark' down. When I'm with Alex, I'm … free. Free of everything. My title, my family history, the hardships and the endless dangers. That and the fact that he is without doubt the most amazing lover I have ever had in my entire life."
Ahem. I think we should classify that last comment as an 'over-share'.
"Well, you were the one who wished to delve deeper."
Yes, that I suppose is true. And I am very much grateful that you have opened up to me on these feelings. But I am still very much confused, on one hand you profess a love for the man and on the other you wish to subject him to various enticements that would have him be lead astray from you. Yet the one person who has the physical history to challenge his fidelity the most is also the one person you seem to possess the most resentment for.
"* Very well, if you wish to know the truth I'll tell you. I don't like Faith Lehane because several years ago she tried to kill him."
W...what? How come I wasn't told?
"Because Henry, sometimes things must remain private. And oddly enough attempted murder by a former lover can rate pretty high and be a pretty sensitive subject. Believe me, I'm a bit of an expert."
Oh dear.
Lara pondered these last two startled words that had exited her long-time confidant's mouth. Allowing seconds to tick by before her own lips parted anew to confront what she was now suspecting and hoping she was indeed wrong. "Please tell me you haven't overstepped your duties and superseded my prerogative with your own?"
There was a pause. A frighteningly long pause before a single word reply could be heard. I only wish I could.
The top of Lara's lip twitched and curled slightly into a small snarl. She wanted to scream out a tie-raid of un-lady like curses, the kind that could peel paint from the wall. Henry had never done something like this before. He had never intentionally undermined or second guessed her to this scale. And every fibre of her needed to know why! Forcing her voice to remain calm, she attempted to carry on the discussion as though she had not just been wounded by one of the few people she trusted in all the world. "May I enquire into what temporary measure of insanity possessed you to think her inclusion in this expedition would *ever* be joyously accepted by me?"
Softly and very meekly the middle-age British man responded. Certainly, Lady Croft. Last night when you told me of your theory surrounding the possible and shared affections of both Ms and Ms Summer's for Master Harris. I was, as you know, very much surprised and then you chose to drop the bombshell regarding her Majesty's dictates. That she had demanded you arrange this … elaborate affair. Well, that just didn't add up in my mind. So after you retired to bed for the night and after several more samples of whiskey I chose to mull over why this might be. The answer did not fill me with too much pleasure.
"How do you mean?"
Because, Lara, regardless of whether Master Harris continued on with his association with you or chose to pursue one of the other ladies, you have already made the decision to have his child. That in itself would be a scandal, infact it would be an even greater one. So why does her Majesty wish you to challenge his love and loyalty to you?
"And your answer to solving this sensitive issue was to contact that Jezebel?"
Actually, no. I contacted Faith Lehane because of her sexual history with Master Harris. After which I invited her on your behalf to join the expedition. But I did so for the worthiest of motives and not for the reason's you believe.
"Then why?"
There was a slight pause, one that offered thoughts to the female that Henry was not trying to manufacture a lie but rather to politely choose his words. I did so, I regret, for the sole purpose to intimidate both sister's efforts in making any attempt to approach Master Harris with regards to romance.
Lara was left momentarily speechless at this revelation, so she allowed Henry to continue with his explanation uninterrupted.
Both women would be very much aware of her 'special' history with him and that, I thought, might make them both a little self-conscious on approaching Master Harris, especially if Ms Lehane was present. As I understand her character she is extraordinarily extravert and lacking in any shame where her sexuality is concerned. For two women timid in their desire of romance with Master Harris such a witness to their efforts would be a preoccupation. I also thought her involvement in the expedition would also offer you the opportunity to truthfully notify her Royal Highness that you presented Master Harris with not one but three very tempting alternatives, and with no interference on your part, but the outcome was that …. Henry trailed off, and the fury Lara had felt just seconds earlier also died away. To think that she had someone so precious and loyal looking out for her and that he would go to such lengths to help her 'win' this gambit. She felt shameful for her earlier anger towards the middle-aged Englishman.
Unabated with a lack of interruption, Henry, proceeded with his explanation, rationale and suspicions. After all, if I could see this singular romantic discrepancy then so would her Royal Majesty. Do not think for a moment that she's some addled old dearie, Lara. She's got a mind like a spring trap. And there is something, I fear, about Master Harris that she knows and we don't which is why I suspect she wants you to 'test' him and his loyalty to you. If he stays faithful then you and he will have the full support of the Palace.
"What do you mean she knows 'something'?"
I mean Lara, that this is the first time in your life that she has ever stepped in where your suitor's are involved, so to my mind it appears that her Majesty has taken a great deal of interest in your 'husband'. Something unprecedented. After all when has she *ever* done that with any of your other assorted Lover's?
Silence followed for a moment before the man-servant continued. Your preferences, Lara, for good or bad are very well publicized in the Fleet Street Rags. The assorted headline 'Conquests' attributed to you include Royal Marine Deserter's, Megalomaniac's, Mercenaries and disreputable art dealers. And in that impressive rogues galley line-up has she ever so much as batted an eye or picked up the telephone to ask you to curb your wilder tendencies? Yet with Master Harris she wants you to test his devotion to you. You don't think for one moment that this singular instance more then a bit odd?
"Are you saying you think he's been lying to me?"
No, this I believe has nothing to do with 'who' Master Harris is. Windsor has some of the best PR professionals in the world next to the White House. This, I fear, isn't reflective with Master Harris as a person, as his adventures and exploits could easily counter any personal short comings possessed by the young gentleman. No, I fear this has to do with something a lot older. Something that even their best 'Spin' experts would not be able to sell.
"His mother and father possibly?"
No Lara, this would have nothing to do with them. As disreputable as they maybe, Master Harris, has never concealed their short-comings from yourself. This would be something in which if gotten out there would be no manner of positive-spin which could be utilised to make him come out smelling like roses and the Palace want to know whether he is worthy of whatever loyalty they would be expected to show on his and your behalf.
More silence followed on Lara's end of the telephone line. How could she have not seen this? Where Palace Politics were concerned she always judged herself as a cut-above the norm, but in this instance she had allowed the obvious to fly over her head without offering a single thought to the whys-and-wherefores.
Deciphering his mistress's silence correctly, the loyal man-servant offered his reassurances. You should not hold yourself responsible for failing to see what others had, Lady Croft. You have had a great deal on your plate and your pre-occupation has not been one that required focus on anything else but your own mediate circumstances.
"It doesn't change the fact that usually I am more alert towards the 'unexpected'. But didn't Bryce already do a background search on Alexander? What did the Palace find out that he didn't?"
In fairness, Bryce only investigated Master Harris's financial affairs, criminal record as well as his immediate family going back two-generations. Anything beyond those 50-years and the computer records become a bit sketchy and harder to find. This means that he never pursued the 'Old School' method and actually ventured into a Library or any other building. Everything was done from his laptop. I suspect that Windsor were far more efficient then he.
"Which means it is likely, if they found something of exceptional concern; regarding Alexander they would take pains to cover such things up?"
No, I doubt that, Lara. They would make it harder to access, but not to find.
Lady Croft sighed deeply. "It still does not change my heart, Henry. Whatever foul deed that might be associated to Alex, I still love him. But as the saying goes, fore warned is fore armed. While I'm away have Bryce kick it up a notch and have him do a proper investigation. Get him to wear the rubber-tred off those sneakers of his."
Of coarse.
"And on to the matter of Faith …"
I stand ready for rebuking, Lady Croft, but I stand resolute in my impulsive decision. If everything worked out the way you hoped it would and you wedded your Prince Charming, there would always be that small voice in the back of your mind telling you that you only got him by 'default'.
"That might be … true, but how did you enact on this so quickly?"
After I finished my seventh snifter of whiskey I went to Bryce's caravan and woke him up. He then hacked into the Watcher Council, breached a dozen high-tech Firewalls and then we gained access to the Slayer's Personal Files. After that it was a simple case of telephoning her up, misrepresenting myself as a member of the Council and organising the first available flight to Heathrow. Which should be landing in five-hours, just enough time for me to collect her after I return Ms Buffy to her Hotel.
"And what if she objects when she finds out we aren't from the Council?"
That is why Bryce organised an Open First Class Ticket. If she resents the idea of going on an adventure with yourself, Ms Dawn and Ms Buffy with the objective of discovering their origin point and learning more about the Slayer's History. She can turn around, hop on that plane and fly back to New York. No harm, no foul, as the American's say.
Lara was far from happy, and even though she could see why Henry did what he did, it didn't mean she had to like it. But arguing down a telephone line on something she now had very little control of was pointless; after all, Faith was already in the air and less then several hours from landing in England. She and Henry would talk about this matter further later, and very much face-to-face. "Very well. Back onto the original subject, what is happening with our guests?"
I have placed the pair in Sun Room and they are at present having their breakfast.
"Excellent. Now Henry, would you be a darling and please set up an extra place at their table for me to join them when I get in?"
Certainly. Lara, again I'm sorry if you think I over stepped my bounds with Ms Faith, but*
"Henry, please, at the moment that issue is all 'spilt milk'. What's done is done. It's funny; before you called I was in the process of congratulating myself on how well I was dealing with finding out that Buffy may have feelings for Alex. And now you tell me you and Bryce did this without my approval. I should be angry and gutted. But your right, I promised Aunt Liz that I would ensure Alexander was not one of those American Gold-Digger's and my love for him wasn't something based in either adrenaline or excitement. That it was real. A romance that could weather the worst of what the world could through at us. Sure, having Faith along might make things a little bit cramped in the Land Rover, but it will also make things all the more interesting as well."