Realistic or Modern The Bronze Locket

[Rainelle]

Adelaide sighed happily as he embraced her. She could feel the tension ease from his frame as the held her for many minutes. She buried her face in his eck and just enjoyed being in his arms. the rocking of the ship lulling them into peace. Then, he pulled away and kissed her long and deep and loving. Adelaide relished it, the touch of his lips and the taste of him. Finally, he pulled away and seemed much more himself. He sighed and told her of the poetry. Adelaide smiled, giggling and kissing his face--his cheeks, forehead, nose--in a quick barrage of sweet pecks.

"My dearest guardian angel, I would love nothing more than to hear you read poetry." She told him excitedly. Adelaide snuggled into him once more for a tight hug before releasing him so he could fetch the books. Gently, she peeled off her gloves and pried off her shoes, hissing slightly as he feet came free. Her white stockings had turned pink at the heels, blood seeping through the fabric. Adelaide sighed in annoyance. "My love," She said, looking up "Would you kindly grab the little wooden box from my smallest trunk while you're up?"

She cursed herself. Adelaide had been so intent on impressing Hugh with a new outfit that she'd gone against her better judgement and worn new shoes, too.
~

Duncan finally closed the distance with a whispered word, kissing her tentatively. Fausta was surprised at the hesetence of it. He pulled away and retreated a little, looking worried. Fausta laughed brightly. "Ragazzo sciocco, ti avevo detto di smettere?" She quipped. Looking up at him through her lashes, she came to him this time, one hand resting on his chest, the other tugged at his cravat, bringing his lips crashing down onto hers.

Fausta kissed him passionately, without a care for who saw them. She kissed Duncan as she'd wished to for some time, telling him through the act just what he had done to her. Every smile, every antic, every excited scheme had driven her crazy, and she kissed him like she hadn't kissed in years, like a woman starved. She kissed him until they both broke apart, gasping for breath, chests heaving. One of the sailors passing by wolf whistled. Fausta laughed breathlessly and wrapped one arm around his neck, her eyes searching his.

"Are you understanding me now, amore?" She asked, her brows raised.

 

[BoneBrain]

She was back to the joyful woman Hugh had come to know. She kissed him everywhere, making him laugh. She sent him to grab the books and Hugh turned to one of his trunks and opened the latch. He dug around shifting through clothes until he came upon the little dark green book. He heard a hiss of pain behind him and his head swivelled to look at her. His eyes widened the the blood stained stockings and it took his brain a second to catch up with her request. He jolted, and closed his trunk and turned to open the smallest trunk as she had directed. The wooden box was near the top and he pulled it out and went to her. Kneeling in front of her he looked at her feet with concern clear on his face. He handed the box to her and looked up at her.

"That looks quite painful." He said softly. "May I help?" His hand came to rest on her knee. "I've tended to a number of wounds in my time." He peered into the wooden box curiously as she opened it.

~

Duncan made a low rumble of pleasure as Fausta returned to him, their kiss driving him wild. He let himself loose then, not caring who saw them. She was fire, and heat, and matched her energy with his own. When they parted Duncan's realised his hands were venturing down her backside, holding her tightly to him. She hooked an arm around his neck and he nodded at her words. Laughing a little.

"Mi stupisci" He repeated to her breathlessly. "Teach me more." He demanded, his mouth capturing hers once more for a strong passionate kiss. Finally, realising that he was considering throwing her down on the deck and having his way with her there did he pull away. His smile was wide, and his eyes full of joy. "How do you say 'I hope we get to do that a lot more?'" He winked and brushed a hand over his mouth, like he was remembering her touch.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide smiled softly at his worry, pressing a kiss to his brow as he sat next to her. She shook her head as she opened the box. "No, my love. Don't worry too much; this is quite normal for us." The box contained a small vial of alcohol, a container of salve, a roll of bandage and a needle and thread. She placed the box in Hugh's hands as she stood, hiked up her skirts and peeled off her stockings in one fluid motion. It was a practiced maneuver. She tossed the stockings in the little trash bin and sat down on the bed again.

Adelaide bent her leg so her heel was resting on the bed beside her and examined her foot thoughtfully. She breathed out a sigh. "At least we won't have to do stitches this time." She muttered. There were scars on her heel from just that, overlapping one another and faded with age. Taking the needle, she dipped it in the alcohol and used it to pry off the popped blister. Adelaide groaned a little, but blinked the tears from her eyes and continued. She washed the inflamed skin with alcohol and then covered it with salve, wrapping the bandage on last. Adelaide repeated the process with her other foot and then closed up the box. "I'll have to restock when we get to italy." She said, almost to herself.

Adelaide stood and hobbled back to her trunk, replacing the box and digging out a new pair of stockings. She returned to the bed and looked to Hugh sheepishly. "I'm sorry you had to see that, angel." She apologized. Adelaide curled up to Hugh and kissed him gently, wrapping both er arms around one of his and settling down.

"What are you going to read me?" She asked excitedly
~

Fausta laughed breathlessly, wrapping her arms still around his neck. His hands were dangerously low on her back, but Fausta loved that he was so bold. She loved that, like her, he cared not who witness them. With a smirk, she said "Spero che potremo farlo molto di più." HIs dizzy smile made her heart leap, and his teasing wink drove her mad. With a sultry laugh, she pulled him closer and pressed her lips to his ear to speak.

"Amore, I will teach you just why they say Italian women are the best lovers tonight, yes?" She nipped at his ear playfully as she pulled away, her eyes sparkling with joy as she looked into his. Laughing once more, she pressed her nose to Duncan's gently and murmured "Dearest Duncan, mi stupisci. Mi stupisci. Mi stupisci." She was alight with energy and happiness, more so than he had ever seen her.

 

[BoneBrain]

Watching Adelaide deal with her injury with grace and minimal outward appearance that she was in pain shocked him. She was so strong, he marvelled. She worked with practised hands, Hugh settled back and moved out of her way when she stood and put her box away when she was done. She turned back towards him and looked at him as he settled himself on the bed, book in hand.

"There is nothing to apologise for." Hugh said, "I did not realise that shoes were such painful instruments on a woman's feet. Should we get you some walking shoes in Italy?" His brow furrowed as he thought of her comfort. She curled into him then and the two of them settled in the sheets entwined. Hugh smiled at her excitement over his reading and pressed a kiss to her temple. "Excellent question Adelaide. Lets see here..." His tongue poked out lightly between his lips as he concentrated on finding the passage he wished to read to her. With the ship rocking them lightly Hugh found it and cleared his throat before he began.

Choice soul, in whom, as in a glass, we see,
Mirrored in thy pure form and delicate, What beauties heaven and nature can create,
The paragon of all their works to be!
Fair soul, in whom love, pity, piety, Have found a home, as from thy outward state
We clearly read, and are so rare and great That they adorn none other like to thee!
Love takes me captive; beauty binds my soul; Pity and mercy with their gentle eyes
Wake in my heart a hope that cannot cheat. What law, what destiny, what fell control,
What cruelty, or late or soon, denies That death should spare perfection so complete?

When he was finished Hugh closed the book and tilted his head to look over to Adelaide. "It seemed fitting to bring an Italian poets work, especially one as talented as Michelangelo. Perhaps we might be able to visit some of his work." Hugh mused.

~

Duncan did his best to repeat the sentence she had given for him to say. It came quite easily, Duncan found the language very melodic and realised that perhaps his musical brain could also be a languages brain. He was so caught up in her, her breath was hot on his ear and he shivered against the sensation, her hot promises sending his nerves alight. Her smile was infectious and he was grinning as she repeated the phrase over and over. He whispered it to her, their breaths mingling.

"If you are as passionate in bed as you are here, I fear I may die of happiness." Duncan chuckled, his voice low, so that none of the other crew men might hear them. It took only a moment for Duncan to realise that he could not possible wait for night fall to explore this new venture with her. She had lit a fire in him, His hand gripped hers and with a devilish grin he tugged her towards the steps and down towards the rooms.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide closed her eyes as he read. She let Hugh's voice fill the cabin--fill her heart. For many moments while he recited, there was only th beautiful words and the gentle rocking of the ship. When Hugh finished, Adelaide smiled and hummed in delight, reaching up and kissing his jaw gently. "Hugh, that was absolutely breathtaking." She murmured, hugging his bicep as she looked up at him with happy eyes. "Can you read me another, please? Your voice is intoxicating. I implore you!" She kissed up and down his jaw again, giggling.

At his other questions, she smiled. "My love, there are no such thing as walking shoes for women, you know. I'll show you the pair I have--they simply have a smaller heel." Adelaide nodded excitedly. "Angel, yes, please! To see such a master's work in person..." She sighed "I'm told that witnesing the David is a spiritual experience like no other." She squeezed his bicep again "I think a museum would be a lovely outing for our first official public appearance together, no?" Adelaide smiled sweetly. "Though I'm afraid that no work of art truly compares to you in my eyes."
~

Duncan gave her that wicked smile and Fausta felt hr knees go weak. He began to lead her back to their room, and she laughed. They raced down the stairs and barreled through the door to their quarters. Fausta locked to behind them and pounced on Duncan. She kissed him deeply, fiercely, laying claim to his lips with her own. She forced him backwards, until he stumbled into the bed. Once he had sat, she straddled his lap, one hand feverishly ripping off his cravat and the other holding the back of his head.

When Fausta came up for air they were both breathless, eyes wide. She grinned at him, throwing the cravat to the floor and beginning to attack his neck. As her lips trailed down the warm skin, she murmured to him "Do you wish for the lady, or the tiger, amore? Quickly, before I am the one choosing."

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh closed his eyes as Adelaide filled up the rest of his senses. Her light touch and sweet kisses sent him spiralling towards happiness. She demanded another and Hugh dutifully began to peer through the book and see what else he could find.

"It is a shame that women would not have proper shoes for travel. I find my knowledge of women's fashion is rather lacking. Perhaps your company should tailor some fashionable yet comfortable shoes." He found a new poem and held the page in place with his fingers. His head tilted away from the page to look at her. Her compliment making the ocean blue of his eyes dance with glee. "I fear you are mistaken Adelaide." He said with a smile. "Michelangelo could never replicate the beauty of your heart. There is nothing more splendid. I would be happy to visit those places and many more with you." He let out a contented sigh and turned to his book again. His voice smooth and deep as he read yet another passage.

Ravished by all that to the eyes is fair,
Yet hungry for the joys that truly bless,
My soul can find no stair
To mount to heaven, save earth's loveliness.
For from the stars above
Descends a glorious light
That lifts our longing to their highest height
And bears the name of love.
Nor is there aught can move
A gentle heart, or purge or make it wise,
But beauty and the starlight of her eyes.

Hugh closed the book then and set it down. Realising that he wanted to hold Adelaide he twisted and engulfed her. Her head came to rest under his chin and Hugh breathed in her scent.

"Perhaps people might find poems of moments like these. Where there is nothing but joy in our hearts. Where the road lay's open without ruts to trip us." Hugh spoke softly. "Would you like stay here? Or i'm sure we could have a place set of us along the deck and enjoy a drink and watch the water."

~

Duncan was surprised that he had not fallen face first down the stairs in his rush to be with Fausta. As soon as they were in they leapt on each other. Fausta was the aggressor and Duncan loved feeling the power behind every kiss, the passion as she walked him backwards and sent him falling to the bed. She had over him and Duncan held onto her his teeth gritting as she freed his neck and she began to touch him, sending his mind reeling. Her words flowed over him and his pupils dialted as he reached up to tug her hair back, exposing her neck to him.

"I want everything." His voice was gruff, intense. His teeth grazed down the delicate features of her neck, her shirt pulled the side so that he could run his tongue over her collar bone. "Don't hold back."

 

[Rainelle]

Hugh kindly offered suggestions on footwear, and she made a mental note to speak to her people when they returned to England. Adelaide closed her eyes and sighed happily as Hugh obliged her and read again. The poem was soft and lovely--it felt so much like the moment that they shared. Hugh wrapped her up in a tight embrace, and she hummed happily, burying her nose into his chest. Hugh's scent wreathed around her and Adelaide felt so at peace. He spoke of walking the deck, and before she could answer, a loud cry of pleasure came through the wall.

Adelaide blushed bright red as the noise continued and gave Hugh a sheepish look. "Perhaps a walk on the deck would be advantageous." She mused, almost laughing. Adelaide stood, and tottered her way back to the trunks and sifted through her clothing. She pulled out a pair of sky blue shoes, and returned to the bed. Wincing a little as she pulled on the new stockings, Adelaide slipped into the shoes, a slight hiss escaping her lips. Adelaide stood, afixed her sun hat back to her head and offered her hand to Hugh. "Let us give the new lovers some privacy, shall we?"

They made their way back up to the main deck, Adelaide having to steady herself against Hugh as the ship moved. "Where shall we go from here?" She asked, looking about curiously. It was her first time on a ship, after all.
~

Fausta let out a throaty purr at Duncan's demand, and as his lips met her skin she shivered. "As you wish, amore." She replied, returning her affections on him full force. Fausta was a gale wind in the bedroom--a whirlwind of unending passion and energy. Many lesser men had quailed before her or cried for mercy. Duncan returned her energy with his own fire. Fausta was delighted at this, and poured into him everything she had. She cried out his name and many times in italian, Duncan overwhelming her senses.

 

[BoneBrain]

At the sounds coming through the wall Hugh rolled his eyes heavenward. Duncan and Fausta certainly had come together quite quickly, but he found it to be no surprise. Those two seemed as if they were kindred souls. Twin sparks with the same nose for mischief. They got dressed and Hugh did his best to act naturally despite the clear noises that left both Hugh and Adelaide absolutely certain of the activities that were happening. Part of him wanted to joke with Adelaide, he slipped his hand into hers and they moved out into the call and close the door behind them.

"I am reminded of some of the noises you've made." Hugh said channelling his inner Duncan. "I hope perhaps you can make them again sometime." He gave her a sheepish grin and squeezed her hand. When they stepped out into the sun on the deck Hugh was greeted with the smell of the salty air rushing past them as the ship had caught quite a nice wind. Deciding to give Adelaide a bit of a tour Hugh gestured towards the back of the ship where an enclosed space stood, above that the ships wheel was manned by a crew member.

"Over there is the captains quarters, he needs to be near the wheel to direct. Next to the quarters in the same structure is a small library, and a place for passengers to grab drinks and small bits of food throughout the day. All along the deck here are benches for us to sit to enjoy when the weather is calm like now." Hugh turned and they faced the rigging and the mast that held the sails. "Above there is a little place for someone to keep watch out. They call it the crows nest. All of this rigging and fabric is what helps us catch the wind. However I am not an expert in this. I've just managed where they've gone or always been a passenger. Duncan has had a little experience with manning a ship. I'm sure he would be happy to answer any technical questions you may have.... When he is not so occupied." He chuckled then.

~

Together they fuelled the flames that they had ignited. Duncan took her over each crest and rode them with her. She knew what she wanted and at her demands he was all too happy to accommodate. Their words were hushed whispers of encouragement and bliss. Duncan was drunk with her, his skin slick with sweat as finally he too came apart in her arms and saw stars. They lay tangled in each other panting for breath. Silence fell over them until finally Duncan let out a hoarse laugh.

"I think you killed me love. I can't feel my legs." Duncan threw an arm over his eyes and breathed in the air of the cabin. It was filled with the scent of their lovemaking. He could hear the waves against the hull and enjoyed the gentle rock of the bed as he slowly came to and remembered how to think. With his other free hand he reached over to brush his fingertips over the smooth lines of Fausta's back.

"This was a most excellent plan." He gave her backside a playful smack and gripped tightly, savouring how she felt. "You drove me wild. I had known this is what it would have been like we would have spent more time in the garden the night of the party." He said playfully.

 

[Rainelle]

Hugh gave her those cheeky remarks and Adelaide blushed madly, gripping him tighter. "Hugh!" She scolded softly, flustered. "When did you get so bold?" Though as they walked, she leaned in a little closer, the blush still red on her cheeks. "Though I must admit, it is flattering to be desired so, if not still a little strange." She snapped open her fan with her free hand and gently moved it, averting her eyes sheepishly. "I never thought a man would feel so strongly in that way for myself." He pointed to the different areas of the ship, and she listened intently.

Adelaide repeated the names softly, to herself as he spoke them, trying to commit the ship to memory. "You're being a wonderful guide, angel." She assured, giving his hand a small squeeze in encouragement. They came to the benches, and Adelaide tugged on him gently, smoothing down her skirts as she sat with a sigh. "Forgive me, darling. I'm afraid I can't walk too far just yet." She smiled up at him radiantly, a small laugh escaping her mouth.

"Oh, to be out with you, on such an adventure as this--I feel free." As she looked back to his eyes, she caught a man behind Hugh staring at her intently. Thomas, the deck hand from a few hours before. She knew that wolfish look in his eye, and felt her pulse quicken. Adelaide touched her necklace with her free hand, averting her eyes. An old, familiar twinge of fear nipped at her heart, and she squeezed Hugh's hand tightly.
~

They made love for what seemed a blissful eternity. Once they finally calmed, Duncan laughed roughly and Fausta chuckled at his comment. He touched her sweetly, then, before regaining his playful demeanor and grabbing hold of her bottom. She laughed more, and turned over, his hand now resting on her hip. Fausta smiled as her eyes devoured him anew, smirking in pride at the sheen of sweat that glazed his skin and the red lines of her nails drawn along his chest. She noted, too, his many scars, her hair spilling over the pillow as she tilted her head.

"Ah," She replied "But now you will be always dreaming of what it could have been. I will never be apart from your mind, now, no?" She was sprawled out under his fingers languidly, her sinewy olive skin in full view of his gaze. Above her heart there was a relatively new scar--starburtsed in the way that could only have been left by a bullet. Her body had other scars in between Duncan's own new markings upon her skin. A long, thin line running almost all the way from her hip to her ankle, and two toes on her left foot so obviously broken and never healed. Fausta was not ashamed of her scars, but men had recoiled in disgust before.

She wanted to see Duncan's reaction as she traced his own old wounds with a single, slim finger.

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh followed Adelaide to the benches and they settled down. Hugh liked holding her hand like this, to be with her out like this was truly lovely.

"I do hope the welts and cuts on your feet heal quickly." He said to her leaning towards her. She turned to him then and he smiled, she was so beautiful, the flush of excitement on her face. Her words matched how she looked and he chuckled. There was a fresh burst of wind over the two of them and Hugh closed his eyes to take in the sensation. He missed Adelaide's eyes flicking past his own face towards Thomas. He squeezed back when she gripped his hand tighter and he stretched out his legs in front of him, like a big cat ready to sun bathe.

"Aunt Lydia always said this was her favourite part of the travel. The excitement and the unknown, with so many possibilities ahead of us. She always said that a soul needed to travel to know ones self. If we stay cooped up then the world has no chance to show us its splendour and change us." Hugh's eyes remained closed, his eye lids lit up orange from the afternoon sun. All around him he could hear the crewmen ensuring the ship remained on course and adjusting as needed. He could hear captain Maxwell above near the ships wheel talking to who Hugh assumed was the navigator. The salty air of the sea tickled his nose and in this moment Hugh knew there was nowhere else he would rather be.

"Do you know any card games Adelaide?" Hugh asked out of the blue.

~

She moved gracefully under his hand and stretched out before him. Her body reminding him of ancient statues of goddesses of love. Every dip and curve of her was exquisite, the olive of her sun touched skin shone and Duncan knew she was right. Fausta would likely be a constant on his mind, she had burrowed there and made a home. He turned to face her and his eyes peered at her lazily. He took her in, his eyes moving slowly down pausing on the marks she bore. Curious he lifted his hand and circled the starburst above her breast. Her own hands were on him, tracing familiar injuries, on his back three slim marks scratched down towards his lower back. His arms bore the marks of many battles fought hard.

Staying silent for the moment Duncan pushed up so that he was propped up on an arm, he leaned forward then and pressed a kiss to the mark there above her heart. He settled there against her, letting his head rest there and his arm drape over her. Their legs tangled and he closed his eyes, knowing that if he stayed silent much longer he might fall asleep on her.

"It seems like you have some interesting stories to tell, but I must admit I am most curious about this one." He kissed the mark again and sighed happily at the taste of her.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide watched Hugh as he relaxed fully, stretching out in the sun and looking more peaceful than she'd ever seen him. The air was warm and tasted heavily of salt, the blue-green ocean rolling around them for eternity. Adelaide did her best to ignore Thomas's stare pinned to her breast and instead focused on Hugh. To be out with him like this, among others, just relaxing together was a dream come true. She smiled as he spoke of Miss Lydia. Adelaide had to agree, this portion of the journey was quite exciting. She found herself dreaming of Italy and all it's splendors, eager to be ashore. The anticipation was energizing.

"That does sound like something she would say." Adelaide agreed. She leaned forward and kissed his cheek softly, once, flaring out her fan to hide the action from prying eyes. Pulling away, she hummed a little, her gloved thumb pressing gentle circles into his hand. Thinking a moment, she responded. "I'm afraid I do not. Father always said card games were for speaking business." She confessed. "I would love to learn, though. I'm sure Duncan is quite the card player--I fear he would clean me out as it were." She laughed. A scrawny deck hand scurried up to them and gave a bow. He straightened and spoke.

" 'Ello, Mr. Montgomery, sir? The captain is wishing to speak to yeh, if you could so kindly."
~

Fausta smiled and laughed a little as Duncan curled into her chest, one arm around her. They became tangled together and she ran her fingers through his hair soothingly. He propped himself up, though he seemed half asleep, and asked her about the scar above her heart. Fausta clicked her tongue as she thought, and leaned forward to give him a slow, lazy kiss. When they pulled apart, she sighed, pushing her curls away from her face.

"This? Ah, well. It is not being a long story. There was an attempt on my father's life, you see. My mother is having many fanatic fans, some are thinking they would be better lovers." She shrugged. "I did not think. I pushed my father away and the gun went off." She circled the scar with a finger, remembering the bite of steel against her skin. Fausta sighed again and cuddled closer to Duncan, his warmth making her feel at ease. She nuzzled her face into his neck and murmured softly. "What? Are you thinking they are not becoming me?" Fausta sounded....almost vulnerable. She had never cared for what men thought of her before--but Duncan was different. There was a small part of her that wished for him to accept her. To think her beautiful.

 

[BoneBrain]

She agreed with him, pressing a kiss to his cheek. Hugh made a low noise of contentment. Above them he could hear the wind flapping the fabric of the sails. Hugh laughed at her mention of Duncan being an expert card player and he found her words rang true.

"Certainly Duncan is the better player of the two of us, I do believe we will all have to teach you. Something tells me Fausta already knows how to play as well." Hugh opened his eyes when his name was mentioned by a voice he did not know. Hugh caught the tail end of the bow and nodded at the request. Getting to his feet he peered down at Adelaide. "I will return shortly." He said to her. Giving her one last smile he walked away leaving Adelaide on the deck. Hugh ventured up the wooden stairs up to the wheel of the ship and found Captain Maxwell. The men shook hands and exchanged greetings.

They spoke at length mostly about business, trading stories of voyages and the small details that came with owning a fleet. The captain seemed a pleasant man, with a smile that lit up eyes eyes.

"I must admit I had a bit of a selfish reason for calling you up here. I'd put in a request, you see, to perhaps sail a different route than this. I've a yen to venture west. I had hoped that perhaps you might look into this for me." Maxwell said leaning back on the balls of his feet, his hands in his pockets. Hugh considered the man and scratched his chin.

"That is indeed a long journey, but I would happily look into the matter more." He said, making a mental note to talk to Duncan.

~

Duncan listened to her tale and found her a selfless woman, not many would step in front of a bullet. Within her eyes he could see a small hint of something, but he wasn't sure of it, perhaps uncertainly.

"Nonsense Fausta, you are the most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on. Every bit of you is truly splendid. You have the heart of an adventurer, and all those with tales to tell have scars." Duncan said to her softly. She was nuzzled into his neck and he enjoyed the feel of her there. The ship rocked and Duncan closed his eyes and savoured the sensation. To have her here filled his heart with joy. There was a small voice in his head that kept repeating the same words. 'Never let go of her.'

"I could stay here forever." Duncan confessed. "However another part of me wonders if perhaps we should seek out our companions. See if things have calmed between the two of them."

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide gave Hugh a smile as he left, and settled down into the bench to watch the waves as she waited. A shadow crossed over her, and she turned back, finding Thomas there. He gave her a cheeky smile and a light bow, to which she returned with a polite nod of her head. "Hello again." She greeted pleasantly, trying to ignore the way his eyes seemed to gleam. She was jumping at shadows, Adelaide told herself. Not every man was a wolf in sheep's clothing.

"'Ello, lassie." He replied. "Get yer sea legs yet?" She laughed a little, shaking her head.

"Not quite, I'm afraid, sir." He smiled again, chuckling.

"You'll get em in no time, you'll see." Thomas assured. Without invitation, he sat beside her, one arm stretching out around her shoulders on the rail. Adelaide felt cornered, but kept up her smile, opening her fan almost to shield herself. Languidly, the sailor stretched out, and Adelaide took stock of his strong form. His hands were nearly the width of her throat. Peering over at her, he continued to speak. "I don't see a ring on that pretty little finger of yours, lass." Thomas observed "Such a thing like you, unmarried still? It's unthinkable. Say," He leaned over "Why don't you take me? I could make you happier than any woman alive. We'd travel everywhere, seeing the world." The hand that was around her shoulder gently tugged at the ribbon of her dress, the knot coming loose. Adelaide made a small noise, blushing as she clapped her hand over the opening.

"S-sir! Please!"

"Don't think I won't know how to please yeh, missy." He said, the wolfish look back in his eye. Adelaide was flustered, unable to stop stammering. She desperately wished for Hugh to return. Thomas suddenly knelt before her, clasping one of her hands on both of his own and proclaiming loudly for the ship to hear. "Marry me!"
~~~

Fausta relaxed in Duncan's hold as he assured her of his fondness, feeling the knot of worry dissipate in her stomach. At his sweet confession, she hummed happily, trailing kisses up his jawline. "I suppose you are being correct, amore." She replied. Worming her way out of his hold, she sauntered across the room and dug through his trunk, pulling out a simple blue shirt and slipping it over her own head. Turning, with her hands on her hips, she spoke to him in Italian.

"<You don't mind if I borrow this, do you, darling?>" Fausta grinned at him cheekily, winking as she tossed her hair over her shoulder.

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh and Maxwell were speaking about the logistics of a western sail when a voice boomed asking someone to marry them. Both of the men's heads snapped towards the commotion and once Hugh saw the target his heart froze. Adelaide's hands were clasped by the the deck hand who they had run into earlier. She appeared to be leaning away and even though Hugh could only see half her face it was clear to him that this had not been a welcome proposition. Thomas was going on to her, his eyes alight with misguided passion. Hugh made a start down the stairs ready to intervene. As he was making his way down Hugh noticed the captain was hot on his heels. As they made it out on the deck the captains voice boomed from behind Hugh.

"Oi Thomas! You thick brained bastard!" Thomas jerked in surprise at his captains voice and stumbled back from Adelaide. Hugh reached them then and he positioned himself in front of Adelaide and saw the state of her dress, the ribbon undone and the fabric parting to show her smooth skin. His pupils dilated with fury and he rounded upon Thomas ready to throw the man overboard for his insolence but Maxwell was already there reprimanding his worker.

"For the last time." Maxwell hauled up Thomas from his knees with surprising strength of a man of his age. "You cannot propose to every woman that ventures aboard this ship and lays eyes on you! I will not tolerate your disobedience again."

"Captain, You don't understand! The lass and I we shared a moment. You must marry us. I cannot be parted from this woman a moment longer." Thomas declared. Maxwell's eyes rolled and he shoved the deck hand.

"I shant marry you to anyone you great lumbering fool. I've seen enough of you boy, down to kitchen. Perhaps peeling potatoes for the rest of the week will have your mind cleared." Thomas's chin quivered and his eyes darted to Adelaide, his eyes made it clear he was not done with this. But Hugh stepped in front of Adelaide again and shot daggers at the man. He itched to give the man a beating but knew better to do so with the captain present. "Away with you!" The captain roared and Thomas made his way to the stairs and with one final pitiful stare he disappeared below deck.

"Are you alright Adelaide?" Hugh turned and bent to look Adelaide in the eye as he spoke. "Are you hurt?" His eyes moved down then seeking out any injuries.

"My apologies miss. For the conduct of my men. Thomas has been on throwing himself at a number of women and it was foolish of me to have kept him on. I shall be leaving him in Italy, or if you prefer I can have him left right here at the bottom of the ocean." There was a glint in Maxwell's eye when he spoke. As if he wished for her to say yes to the latter of the options.

~

Duncan enjoyed the sweet kisses she laid upon his jawline and hummed happily when she agreed that they should move towards the upper deck. She got up and his eyes moved over her naked body, enjoying each dip and curve. She pulled on one of his shirts and he sat up and listened to the melodic Italian that flowed from her lip. He gathered what she had asked and nodded smiling. He repeated the sentence back to her, determined to learn her language.

"I like seeing you in my clothes. You are more then welcome to them anytime." He winked and got up himself and dressed in the clothes he had worn previously. When they were both finished dressing he laid one last kiss on her before opening the door and gestured for her to step outside.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide let out a shaky breath, trying to calm herself from the commotion. Hugh's presence calmed her, and she looked to Maxwell. At his words, she became alarmed, hoping it was all in jest. "Captain, please don't maroon the man in a country he does not hail from." She replied. "He may be blundering in his affections, but no one deserves to be abandoned. Maybe keep him confined to quarters on the return to England, so he may at least be home when you terminate his work."

Adelaide's fingers were shaking, so she covered the revealed skin with her hand, blushing heavily. She tucked her head into Hugh's shoulder as he knelt before her, the warmth of his body and his scent steadying her heart. "I'll be alright, my love." She murmured. Once Adelaide had truly calmed, she managed to tie the ribbon behind her neck up again and heaved a sigh. She stood, with Hugh's help, and shook Maxwell's hand. "Thank you for your chivalry intervening, Captain." The group spoke for a moment more before the captain left again to attend to his duties.

Adelaide buried herself into Hugh's arms, hugging him tightly. With a nervous laugh, she muttered "I seem to be nothing short of a magnet for trouble, don't I?" She gathered fistfulls of his coat into her hands. "Would it be childish of me to ask for you to stay by my side? I don't wish to be alone again..."
~

Fausta grinned as he opened the door for her. "Grazie, mi amore." She purred as she passed him. When he followed her out into the hall, she placed a hand on his chest and leaned close. "How quickly you are going from beast to gentleman..." Giving Duncan a sly wink, she took his hand, lacing her fingers through his as they walked up the stairs. She hummed softly, and when they broke cover onto the deck, she laughed lightly, spotting their companions. Drawing Duncan in, she pointed. "All seems well, yes? Good job talking the sense into him."

Hands still intwined, Fausta and Duncan sauntered up to the couple with their own brilliant smiles. "Caio! What were we missing for such an embrace?"

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh took a few calming breaths after Thomas had left them and found he wanted to follow the Captains suggestion and was about to say so when Adelaide in all her kindness spoke and Hugh felt peace move over him again. He sighed knowing that it would likely be best for all those involved if they were to follow Adelaide's suggestion. She held onto him for a small while and when it seemed that she too had calmed and had righted her appearance they stood. The Captain then took his leave and Adelaide curled into his arms. Hugh held her tightly and tucked his chin onto her head.

"I wont leave you again. You have my word. Next time if something requires one of our attentions we will go together. As for the trouble it certainly seems that fate likes to throw unique circumstances your way." Hughs attention was drawn then by Fausta and Duncan joining them, Fausta greeting them and asking them why they stood so.

"It is a long story." Hugh grumbled. "That Thomas boy asked Adelaide for her hand in marriage."

"And where is the boy now?" Duncan asked a brow raised. His eyes shifted to the rail of the deck and out to the sea he then looked back to Hugh questioningly.

"Not there unfortunately. Down below peeling potatoes for his crimes." Hugh said. He did not let go Adelaide now, his uncertainty with her had eased and he found he actually enjoyed for his brother to see him this way.

~

Duncan squeezed Fausta's hand as the story was explained to them and he glanced at Fausta before looking back to the embracing couple. Above them the sun started its decent down towards the horizon.

"It will soon be time for our evening meal. Perhaps we might sit together and enjoy this fine company until then." Duncan said, he leaned towards Adelaide then a smile over his lips. "The sea agrees with you dear. You look beautiful today. I hope my brother has told you this."

"Adelaide knows I think her magnificent." Hugh said his chin lifting in a knee jerk reaction at his older brother. "Over there is a table we may take up." Hugh said then changing the conversation and pointing out a small table that was in the middle of the deck. It was clear that both the table and the benches for seating er bolted down to stop the furniture from moving in the rougher waters.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide finally separated herself from Hugh's warm embrace, and smiled as Duncan complimented her. She blushed a deep red at Hugh's defensive response, a small laugh tumbling form her lips. "Am I truly the one you should be complimenting right now, Duncan?" She teased, winking at Fausta. The other woman laughed. "Please, lets sit." She agreed. The group made their way to the table, with minimal slip-sliding from Adelaide. They sat and chatted idly for a while.

"Oh, Hugh had the most brilliant idea," Adelaide told them excitedly, her face coming alight. "We should all play cards! I'm excited to learn." She wrapped her arms around one of Hugh's, her bubbly energy pouring through her. The smell of the sea and the late afternoon sun had relaxed her, the gentle rocking of the boat even becoming familiar to her. She reached up and kissed Hugh on the cheek, exuberant.
~
At Adelaide's teasing, Fausta laughed, squeezing Duncan's hand. "Oh, do not be worrying, Addy. He has told me plenty." She grinned. They sat and Fausta enjoyed her closeness to Duncan as they talked, feeling almost at peace. Adelaide suggested cards, Fausta perked up. Punching Duncan on the shoulder, she grinned. "That is being a wonderful idea!! I will be, how you say, cleaning you all out." She giggled, sweeping her hair over her shoulder and digging through her small bag. Pulling out a coin, she called over a deck hand and instructed him to fetch them a deck of cards. Once he returned, she tipped him and began to shuffle.

"What are we to be playing? Poker?"

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh sat with the group and they settled nicely into easy conversation. Adelaide seemed so at ease with the group it pleased Hugh to see her being affectionate. She kissed him on the cheek and suggested that they all play cards. Hugh nodded and raised a brow at Fausta's confidence. He was not surprised in the least, but it was still unique to him to see a woman act with such confidence. Duncan seemed to take it in stride however. It was clear from the way that his brother was looking at the woman that he was enamoured. Fausta paid a deck hand to grab them and deck and when they returned with deck in hand Fausta began to shuffle.

"Poker sounds just fine to me." Hugh said. He leaned gently into Adelaide. "We will teach you to play. And once you know the rules we could begin placing bets." Hugh said. He started to pat his coat looking for the bag of coins that remained on his person.

~

"Hold now brother. I've had a thought that perhaps it is not money that should be bet. But perhaps small favours." Duncan's brows lifted in a playful manor.

"Don't be rude Duncan." Hugh warned.

"Don't be prude dear man. We shant bet anything of too intimate a nature." Duncan peeked over to Fausta to see what she thought, hoping that perhaps she might enjoy the idea as well. There was much meddling to be done.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide looked up curiously, determined to learn the game. When Duncan gave his suggestion, she cocked her head. "How do you mean?" She asked Duncan. "What sort of favor would you bet?" Adelaide thought for a moment, trying to figure out what she herself would bet if the game went through. Perhaps she would ask for a singing lesson from the Madona? Or request one of the boys to dance with her? Maybe she would take Hugh up on his offer to go shoe shopping--make it a group outing?

At Hugh's huffing, she smiled gently, reaching up to kiss him once more. "Come now, angel." She coaxed gently, imploring him with wide green eyes, innocently. "It sounds exciting. Aren't we here for an adventure?" She squeezed his bicep with her gloved hands. "I trust Duncan to keep a clean mind--he's tamed man now after all." She giggled. Adelaide kissed Hugh once more before watching Fausta begin to deal cards.

"How do we start?"

~

Fausta laughed with delight. "Mi amore, how wonderful!!" She gave him a kiss on the cheek and a knowing look of approval. She finished shuffling and delt the cards, sliding each player their pile. She bumped Duncan with her elbow gently and grinned. "You start, then, yes?" Her eyes had that familiar spark to them--she was scheming just as he was.

What should she ask for? Maybe Addy to wear one of her mother's glizy opera outfits! Hugh might just drop dead at the sight. Ohhh, maybe to get her eldest brother drunk? That would be a sight. Fausta laughed again, eager to begin.

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh was placated by Adelaide and he gave her a sweet smile. She kissed him again and knew just where to touch him to change his mind.

"Alright. The bets are favours then. This should be interesting." Hugh relaxed and watched as Fausta began to deal the cards. He picked up his set and contemplated for a moment of what sort of things he might ask for. He was distracted however when Addy asked how they started and Hugh got down to explaining the game to her. He did his best to make it as comprehensive as possible. Occasionally Duncan or Fausta would jump in with an extra bit of information he had missed and Hugh was grateful. When they were finished explaining how to play Duncan went about taking his turn. Hugh looked over his own cards and sighed inwardly. It was a poor hand but perhaps now he might have the opportunity to think of what he wanted. He liked the idea of Duncan shining his shoes or of Adelaide reading to him. He was a little stuck then it came to Fausta though. He was certain it would come to him.

~

Duncan regarded his hand and clucked his tongue knowing while it certainly could get him the win if he played his cards right.

"Alright one favour from yours truly into the pot." He said and waited for the others to agree they had all called on his bet. They all regarded their hands closely again and shuffled their cards around as they thought best. Duncan looked around the table and his eyes landed on his brother, the look on Hugh's face had Duncan laughing. "A poor hand it seems."

"Shush Duncan." Hugh said, but he knew he was caught and folded. Duncan's eyes moved to Fausta then and he found he quite enjoyed the mischief that played through her eyes. His stance widened under the table so that his hip might rest against hers. Duncan turned then regarded Adelaide.

"So my sweet friend. What now?"

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide listened intently to the others as they explained to her how the game worked. Hugh helped her with cards that were winners or losers, and she had a relatively alright understanding as they began. Contemplating her hand, she looked back up and Duncan and gave him an effortless smile. "Two favors, then, for me." She head Fausta whistle lowley and saw her friend grin, holding her cards close to her chest as she became shy. A blush dusted her cheeks, but she held Duncan's gaze. Adelaide could feel Hugh give her a small look before returning to his own cards.

She leaned her shoulder against his briefly, almost like a reminder that she was still there.
~

Fausta whistled at Addy's bet and grinned devilishly. Winking at Duncan, she kissed the shell of his ear once before examining her hand. Not bad--but certainly no winner. "I will call, you, then, Adelaide." She responded. "Two favors from me." She placed her chin on the back of one hand, keeping her cards concealed as she quirked a brow at Duncan.

"Amore?" She asked "Too rich for your blood, Duncan?" Fausta stuck her tongue out as she teased him.

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh sat back and regarded the group, his arms crossed over his chest and he wondered what favours everyone else might ask for. Adelaide was holding strong with her gaze towards Duncan but quickly she drew a bit away and a light pink blossomed over her cheekbones. He smiled and when she leaned against him for a moment the grin grew even wider.

~

Duncan looked between the two women, the shy blush and the confident eyes. He peered back down at his cards and then tucked them away out of sight. He knew he could play it up and probably get the win this round, but something in his heart told him that perhaps one of the women would have far more interesting favours to ask for. There were certainly other hands to be won. Duncan let out a low dramatic sigh and made a show of throwing his cards to the table.

"I concede." He grinned at Adelaide as he threw an arm over Fausta's shoulders. "You have an excellent bluffing face, Adelaide. I must say. There is too much endearing about you for me to discern what sort of hand you may have." He squeezed Fausta and wondered how it would play out.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide was a little startled at Duncan's fold, but smiled brightly at the compliment. "I suspect you are being kind to me." She mused, laying her cards down on the table. "I believe you said this was called...a full house?" She had three jacks and a pair of twos. Adelaide looked at Hugh for confirmation that she'd said it right, and smiled happily when he nodded. She kissed his cheek, then wrapped her hands around his arm and laughed lightly. "Oh, this is fun!" She chirped, awaiting Fausta's reveal. Fausta barked out a laugh and threw down her own cards, revealing a flush.

"You win, Addy." She replied with a sly smile. Fausta leaned into Duncan's arm, wrapping her own around his waist as Adelaide grinned excitedly, bouncing in her seat.

"Really??" She gasped. "Goodness, I never expected to, much less on my first try!" Adelaide thought for a moment--an almost devious look coming across her face. "So I get a favor from Duncan, and Two from Fausta, correct?"
~

Fausta squeezed Duncan's middle lightly and kissed his cheek again, murmuring against his ear "Amore, mi stupici." Before sitting back and watching her dear friend celebrate and laugh.

 

[BoneBrain]

Hugh's eyes lit up when Adelaide revealed her hand and laughed happily at her excitement. His hand reached out and rested over the hands she had wrapped around his other arm. She vibrated with excitement over her win and Hugh could feel the pendant he wore almost thrum happily against the skin of his chest.

"I'm curious to know what sort of favours you will ask for." Hugh said. "You need not spell them out now, you are of course welcome to hold onto these favours."

~

Duncan felt a shiver move through his body at Fausta's words and his eyes darkened with desire for her. He reached past Fausta for the deck then and began to shuffle. The cards moved around in his hands almost as if they were dancing. It had been Duncan's great pleasure to learn the art of shuffling along with dancing when he frequented the bars with his father.

"I believe we have time for one more game." When he was finished Duncan laid out the cards in front of his friends and picked up his own set to regard them.

 

[Rainelle]

Adelaide hummed in excitement as Duncan shuffled, holding onto Hugh a little tighter and watching the cards dance between his brother's fingers. She picked up her hand and moved away from Hugh a little so he could not spy her cards, ordering them and trying to remember what each of the combinations were called. When it came to her turn, she kissed Hugh on the cheek for good luck and said.

"Alright, I'll bet once."
~

Fausta quite enjoyed the effect those words had on him, seeing Duncan so react was delicious. He began to shuffle for the next round and and wrapped her other arm around him, placing her chin on his shoulder as he worked. "I see your fingers are being talented at many things, amore..." She teased, giggling a little. As he dealt, she sat back up and quickly threw her hair into a messy braid to keep it from her face. Examining her cards, she tilted her head a little and hummed.