dark times || closed.

maxim adam bemis; (100)

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This ain't the right time for you to fall in love with me,
baby I'm just being honest.
And I know my lies could not make you believe,
we're running in circles that's why.

Xanthippe Ardral_____________________Alfred Pennyworth

Eloisa Maroni_____________________Oswald Cobblepot

In my dark times I'll be going back to the street,
promising everything I do not mean.
In my dark times, baby this is all I could be.

October 4th, 2015 at 10:40am
maxim adam bemis; (100)

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Eloisa Maroni
The frigid air and the congested walkways of the infamous Gotham City were not new to the brunette. The city was virtually her home away from home, not that she found herself fond of Gotham. Even when she was a young girl she was well aware of the corrupt and twisted ways of the streets her uncle, Don Maroni, and his men prowled. Her mother, bless her soul, swore that her family would have nothing to do with the wasteland that was Gotham. Making sure to not utter a word to anyone, Gianna Maroni, left the world of Gotham with her five children to find a better life for them. She promised herself, and her newly deceased husband, that her children would be better people, the darkness of Gotham would not overtake her babies. Unfortunately, the young mother did not take inconsideration how the mob boss, her own brother, would react to the abrupt betrayal. His beloved sister simply did not understand how important their family name was - the city belonged to those kids, he argued. It took several gruesome weeks to convince the obstinate Italian to allow her brother guardianship over her children during the holidays off from school. Her brothers, the oldest four, loved the atmosphere as if it sung to the blood in their veins, but little Elle always found herself looking over her shoulder.

Years later, at the age of twenty, Elle decided to follow in her brothers' footsteps and move to the notorious city. Her mother had died the previous year from a long run of breast cancer and Eloisa wasn't sure where to go with her life from there - it was her eldest brother, Mikey, who convinced her to uproot her life and move back to Gotham with the rest of the family. In the beginning, to her, it seemed like the best choice - she wouldn't be alone and would have an appropriate amount of time to get her life together without the stress of bills. Several months following her relocation the young Maroni came to terms that moving to Gotham was a dreadful miscalculation. Living under the eyes of her uncle she felt as if she was a child again - he was persistently setting rules for her. Elle knew it was for her own protection, but still she didn't particularly fancy being told what to do. She was no longer a child, she was an adult! But none the less, she obediently followed the regulations for the first few months - but she was quickly becoming restless.

That is why she found herself exploring, practically skipping, the streets of Gotham on that frigid night - her feet carrying her petite frame in the direction that her uncle had specifically mentioned as "out of bounds"; warning his niece that the characters in the area didn't deserve to be in her presence - somehow she saw that as an exaggeration.As she crossed the street the brunette pursed her full lips - her nerve cracking as the club came into view. What if curiosity truly killed the cat? Elle wasn't even sure what compelled her to test her uncle's word on the matter of her safety and thinking back she almost felt childish. However, it was too late to turn back now, the devil on her shoulder argued. Besides, Elle mused, she was somewhat curious of this Oswald fellow; the man who outsmarted the great Don Maroni.

Warmly the brunette smiled at the stranger who held the door open for her, "Thank you," She murmured as she took a cautious step forward - her chilled body beginning to slowly warm up as she entered the club. It was nice - not what she expected - she ignored the leers that she was receiving, crossing her fingers and hoping her identity wasn't that obvious, and took a seat at the bar. "A water, please." As she waited Elle drummed her fingers in a gentle melody, momentarily wishing that she would have thought to bring company along.
Alfred Pennyworth

Becoming Master Bruce's legal guardian was never Alfred's intention - he was fond of the Waynes, but their untimely death certainly set his own life in a draw back. What did he know about raising the young Wayne? Despite his own reservations the butler knew he would have to accept fate's hand. It was duty to watch after the young master and he didn't let the boy's parents down. No sir, that was not in Alfred Pennyworth's agenda. The first few weeks after the Waynes' deaths had proven to be the most difficult - Bruce always finding himself in some spot of trouble, Alfred doubting his abilities. Nevertheless, as the days ticked by it was becoming rather effortless. While Bruce was still mourning he was no longer pushing away the butler - Alfred was no longer fearing that he would someday find the young master dead somewhere in the manor.

Home life for the two was indeed running quite smoothly - the one drawback that laid between the two was the subject of school. Alfred, despite the fact that he hadn't been in contact with a child that wasn't Bruce, knew the young boys peers would be dreadful. He knew this fact and he tried to prepare the lad, but one can only do so much. If it weren't highly illegal the butler would have taken out the bullies himself, they were repulsive. Bruce had been through so much for a boy his age and he didn't deserve to be harassed whenever he left the security of Wayne Manor. When Alfred first caught wind of the bullying Bruce endured he was tempted to simply pull the boy out of school altogether - Bruce could do well in home studies, he was a smart boy. However, he knew that would have been the easy way out and Alfred despised the easy way out. Bruce needed to be around children his own age, Bruce needed to know that the simple option wasn't always the path that needed to be taken. Master Bruce was a Wayne by blood and Waynes were not quitters.

However, as the butler stood among Bruce's everyday peers and their parents he couldn't help but regret his decision to keep the boy in school. Alfred was by no means anti-social, but Gotham's finest and their children left an odd taste in his mouth. He could only deal with their pompous attitudes for so long. He didn't appreciate, and certainly hoped young Bruce did not notice, the subtle stares they were receiving. The values these people held left Alfred befuddled. Throughout the night he kept a firm grip on Bruce's shoulder, offering tight-lipped smiles to the other guardians - as much as he loathed the company he knew it would be best to play friendly. He didn't want to give any other reason to single out Bruce, so he would be on his best behavior. "Where to first, Master Bruce?" Alfred didn't necessarily understand the importance of a parent-teacher night, but decided to come nonetheless in hopes of giving the boy some normalcy in his dark life. "To meet Ms. Ardral, Alfred, she's truly fantastic." The young boy raved as he led the way towards the classroom he had decided - if Bruce had it his way Ms. Ardral would be the only teacher his butler would meet, her class was the only one that kept his interest. Alfred gave a nod of approval - not too fussy, he just wanted to get this over with so he could get back to the manor and away from the stuffy people around him.

Upon arriving Alfred noticed that the classroom door was shut, "Rats, seems as if she's busy." He murmured mores so to himself before he took a seat in one of the chairs that were supplied outside the door - no matter the two could just wait, his master insisted.

[I hope this isn't too awful, haha. ]

October 6th, 2015 at 04:35am
WhiskeyDreaming (100)

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Oswald Cobblepot | Cunning

It was a dreadfully boring night. The same people and faces, and Oswald was no higher in his rank of mobs than he was two months ago. All this had bred for foul mood; and he doubted that nothing would mitigate this mood of his temper. But still, he saved face by making his round of the club, asking if people needed anything and how the service was. In his spare time Oswald nursed his own drink at the bar, grumbling to himself about the state of affairs and his own place in them. At least neither don was here giving Oswald a hard time. He hated it when Maroni came into his territory and pushed around Oswald. Both men knew that Oswald was neither courageous nor strong. But he was cunning personified, a mind stronger and quicker; far more dangerous than one could imagine. Usually he was ten steps ahead of his enemies. And Oswald had more eyes and ears around the city than even Butch knew of. In fact, he was in such a foul mood he'd hardly noticed when the oddly familiar yet compelte stranger waltzed through the doors of his club. If anything he noted with a sort of offhandedness that she was a striking woman.

Slim, pale as a wraith and eyes as dark and enticing as Goddesses of old one read about in stories. Thick, silky looking tresses were arranged in a bun that showed off the sharp angles of her face that Oswald found his own gaze lingering on. But who was he kidding? He was an awkward creature, a thing that woman would often spare a scorning eye. Which is why he remained seated a few stools away from her nursing his French 75 as song and lightheartedness raged on around him. Every so often he'd glance towards her, though never quite worked up the nerve to say anything. That obsolete and almost frantic feeling that he had seen this woman around lingered in his brain. However, Oswald still said nothing. For now he simply observed, trying to just place a name to a face. The woman stayed alone at the bar, sipping from a plain glass of water. There was nothing... sinister about her before; so perhaps she was someone's girlfriend that frequented this place. Music pulsated around them, tonight he'd chosen a local band, a band that crooned and sung their blues for all to dance to. He'd admit that since Butch had reappeared to help him business had been much better.

He was still lost in his own head when he felt thick hands on his shoulder. Twisting around ready to smash his glass in this person's face if need be, Oswald relaxed as his gaze rested on Butch. "Can we have a word?" Cryptic as always Oswald nodded, standing up and trying not to hiss with pain. His leg had been giving him a lot of pain lately, causing him to limp more prominently than before. Following Butch a little bit aways to the basement, Oswald more than a little annoyed. Whatever the hell he wanted better be good. "Do you know who that woman at the bar is? Took me a moment to figure it out." How the hell did Butch know something he didn't. Frowning, Oswald was quiet for a moment. "Don. Maroni's niece." Butch finally cut in, excitement in his voice. That foul mood which had been staining his evening suddenly disappeared as a distorted grin touched down on Oswald's face. He didn't know how someone so beautiful could be related to that gorilla Maroni. "You're sure?" Butch nodded confidence on his brawny features. "Yeah. Seen pictures of her. Falcone knows who's close to Maroni- and her? He's super protective of the girl. Kick her out before he comes down here guns blazing." But should he? Should Oswald throw her out?

This left a peculiar and rare opportunity for Oswald, perhaps kidnapping her and using her as leverage would be beneficial. Sighing, deep in though Oswald rubbed his chin while shaking his head. "No. Butch what is the only thing that would make you leave your family?" For a moment Butch was quiet, and curiously shook his head. Love you mook. Love conquers all. Or at the very least can be used to manipulate pretty girls with powerful uncles." His worker was quiet for a moment and shook his head. "You can't really make her love Oswald." Of course not, but he could manipulate her to the point of not knowing what was real and what was not. Then he'd have access to sensitive information about Don Maroni. And on a petty level he could destroy the elder man while he watched one of the things he loved most be corrupted by Oswald. "Now, if you'll excuse me. I have work to do. When you come up bring a crate of the Vodka Mariette." With that he was limping up the stairs and back to his half-finished French 75.

To Oswald's great relief she was still there, and it occurred to him that Butch had never given Oswald a name. Nervously brushing some of his raven hair from his startling cat-green eyes Oswald limped his way back into his seat, figuring out exactly what to say. Figuring it would be best to just go introduce himself Oswald glanced those couple seats down, offering a smile as he caught her gaze on him. "I'm Oswald Cobblepot. I'm don't think I've seen you in here. I would remember." Charm thickened his voice as the man gestured to her water. "Not drinking? Don't blame you, a woman such as yourself intoxicated in public would unfortunately invite trouble from the riff-raff of this city." Emerald orbs clashed on her's so dark they were almost black; and it was then Oswald realized that she had her uncle's eyes. It was a little unnerving though served to remind him exactly what his endgame here was. "Sorry, to keep bothering you, but you look a little dazed. First time in Gotham?" That practiced innocent charm never left his odd voice while Oswald's thin lips turned upwards in a smile. Thank god his mother wasn't here to cause a scene and chase off such a golden opportunity to seriously hurt Don Maroni.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Xanthippe Ardral | Innocence

She hated teacher-parent conference night. The parents that acted as if their child were god and could do no wrong. Parents who would manage to find a way to blame Xanthippe for their children's crass behavior and poor grades. There would be complaints she was too soft on other children, and too hard on the child of the parents that she was talking to. Not to mention the air of entitlement that most of these adults breathed made her sick. Having grown up poor, it almost made her upset to see half these children walk around without a care in the world. These were the kids who knew that their parents would hand them the collective key of this city. It was Xan's first year teaching here, but had been in the public system before. Yet, a friend of her cousin's had worked here and recommended her for the spot. And like something equal parts dream and nightmare; Xanthippe had been chosen for the stuffy private school. But, it hadn't been all painted in gold. Sure her pay was considerably higher than her last wages, and the teachers here were for the most part- kind. The only thing she detested was the bullying rate in their school. It seemed whoever didn't exactly fit in with the other kids were harassed, bullied and made to feel two inches tall.

To top it off, one of her favorite students yes she knew that having favorite students wasn't ethical Bruce Wayne, had been the most recent victim of the schoolyard bullies. She had been supervising recess just a couple days ago when yet another incident had happened. Xan had turned around for two seconds to help some girl find chalk to play hopscotch with and when she returned to the main area of the playground she found a large group of boys jeering in a circle. Xanthippe had broken through the group of boys to find Bruce Wayne and Tommy Elliot fighting furiously on the ground. Bruce's lip was split and his eye was swollen while Tommy had a cut over his eye and a nasty bruise on his cheek. Xanthippe herself had taken a few punches breaking them up, and for twelve year old boys holy hell could they pack a punch. A few other teachers had been gotten by a few cowed girls and soon the incident had been taken care of. Both boys were given detentions and a note home to their guardians. After hearing what the fight was about, Mr. Elliot dragging Bruce's recently murdered parents through the mud; Xanthippe had half a mind to call a meeting with Thomas' parents.

But she had held off. The conferences and meetings with parents would begin soon enough and for the next couple days she'd just continued her normal routine. That's where she was now, sitting in her desk and listening to Thomas' Elliot's parents express their concern of that dreadful boy Bruce Wayne. Xanthippe had tried to politely tell them that the investigation they'd launched into the fight had turned out to be Tommy's instigation and they were separating the boys at lunch and recess, though they had wiped off crocodile tears and asked why they allowed the fight to happen in the first place. It took thirty minutes to convince the parents that everything was under control and both boys were notified that they were not to fight on school grounds. A few more parents shuffled in to talk about their children, those of the parents that had shown up. It was another curious thing that Xanthippe had noticed with high society parents. They either cared far too much for their precious little kids, or forgot that they had children. Going down her list, crossing off the appointment times she felt herself relax a bit as Bruce's meeting came up.

He was a good student. High marks, very high marks, and beside the trouble with mostly his male peers; fit in pretty well. Glancing at the clock, frowning as she noted it was drawing close to six she thanked the universe that this was her last meeting. Getting up to smooth down the chic black dress, she hurried to the door opening it and peeking her head out to find young Bruce and a man she hadn't seen before, though would assume was the Alfred that Bruce spoke so highly of, sitting patiently. "Hello, I'm so sorry for keeping you waiting. Some meetings run long. I'm Xanthippe Ardral. Bruce's history and homeroom teacher." Sticking her hand out to shake towards the man she assumed to be Alfred, Xanthippe smiled gently at Bruce. Once introductions were made, she ushered the two into her room, closing the door behind them as Xan once again made her way to her seat. Her gaze, warm and hazel in color flickered over Alfred's face, and she'd not deny he was handsome. However, such thoughts were unprofessional so in a cheery voice she straightened up a little. "Now, there are a few things I want to discuss. But I assure you Bruce is doing just fine in class. He makes high marks, always respectful to his teachers and has an intellect which will aid him well in the future." It was the honest facts that were always easiest to shoot off first. Though there were some troubles she wanted to get out of the way.

"However... We do have a few concerns." She'd rather get the uncomfortable things out of the way, so she figured to get right to it. "Bruce is having a hard time getting on with his peers. Rather, they have a hard time getting on with- What I mean to say is I'm afraid that Bruce has had some difficulties with his peers of which you're aware of. There have been a few fights, though we determined it was self-defense of Bruce's part; and I just wanted to apologize for that happening. The note that was sent home was vague but both boys are being kept apart and each a close eye on." She wanted to assure Alfred, but mostly Bruce that it was safe for him to be here. That peers giving him a hard time wouldn't be tolerated. "However, I must remind you that fighting is not tolerated and we expect it not to happen again." It wasn't a lecture, or a judgment of the child. Though braced herself for some sort of backlash. When she'd delivered the same rhetoric which the principle had instructed her to give to Tom's parents; well they had run the meeting long with belittling and judging her teaching abilities.

///

I love your first post, it's so good! This is gonna be a great RP :3

October 6th, 2015 at 06:47am
maxim adam bemis; (100)

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@ WhiskeyDreaming

Eloisa Morani; navie.

The young Maroni fleetingly contemplated exiting the club, because despite the lighthearted atmosphere she could feel holes burning into her back from the glowers. Was her identity truly that easily detected? The theory left the petite woman feeling unnerved and had her briefly considering that maybe, just maybe, her uncle was right. Walking into Oswald's Eloisa felt confident in her decision to defy her uncle, but now sitting alone at the bar with nothing but strangers, who could easily kill her without a second thought, around her she wanted to hurry back to her side of Gotham - the side where she knew she was safe.

"Such an idiot," She cursed herself, her teeth catching the plump skin of her lower lip - for a brief act of rebellion she could have easily risked her life. With the feeling of unease eating away at her gut Elle made up her mind to leave - and leave as fast as her small feet could take her - but alas, her idea of escaping the eyes of strangers were briefly put on hold when she heard someone sit down a few seats away from her. Never the type who was able to fight her curiosity the girl found herself allowing her eyes to wander towards the male - her eyebrow quirking in interest. He was an attractive fellow, she observed, but in a very peculiar way. His eyes were what caught her - those cat-like eyes had her rooted to the spot, her fingers seizing their light tapping.

As her cheeks flushed the lightest shade of pink she broke her gaze - silently chastising herself. God, she probably looked like a complete imbecile. When he introduced himself as Oswald Cobblepot, the man she came to investigate, she tried to keep her face neutral. She felt momentarily floored as her eyes went back to the pale boy's face. This was the man who her uncle loathed with every fiber in his body? He hardly looked intimidating - he merely looked a bit odd. "I can handle myself against this city's riff-raff, thank you very much." Her dark eyes, now narrowed in annoyance, met the club owner's emerald ones. She hadn't meant to snap at the stranger, but she was tired of being considered weak in everyone's eyes. "Sorry," She apologized quickly, her pale skin rapidly warming up, not wanting to come off as harsh and infuriate the male before her. Eloisa was well aware that the last thing she needed to do was give Oswald Cobblepot the time of day, but despite her inner nagging she remained seated. He didn't know who her uncle was and he seemed completely harmless. "Definitely not new to Gotham, I've just never ventured this far into the city."

She answered, now offering the strange man her usual grin - hoping her previous hostile manner hadn't scared him off. "It's a bit eerie, if I'm being honest," She admitted, more so referring to the bunch that leered at her once she entered the small club. What had she anticipated though? Everything about Gotham left her on edge - it wasn't exactly the safest place, no matter where you were or who you were. The male's soft voice left Eloisa both soothed and uneased - it was almost like like a melody, a rather odd melody.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Oswald." As she spoke she turned to face the stranger, her fingers anxiously fiddling with a loose string on her cardigan. "I'm Eloisa, but most people call me Elle." Eloisa decided against giving the club owner her last name - she adored her uncle but she loathed the weight his name carried. Once people knew she was a Maroni it was all they cared about - they either loved her or wanted her dead. If what her mother's brother had told her was true Oswald would definitely want her dead - with this realization the cloud of nerves was once more over her shoulders. "I should probably start heading home, actually." Subconsciously she pouted, not entirely keen to going back to the wrath of her brothers any time soon but the longer she lingered she knew she was in danger.

Anyone and everyone on this side of town would gladly string her up dead to get to her uncle - and charming but strange Oswald was no exception. "It was a definite joy speaking with you, but the darker it gets outside the creeper the walk home is, you know?" There - that was that - she met the infamous Oswald Cobblepot and lived to tell the tale now she could go home and her uncle didn't have to know about her adventures. She left a small tip for the bartender who waited on her before standing to take her leave. The walk back was going to be dreadful, absolutely horrendous. She would probably come down with Pneumonia, she thought dramatically.
Alfred Pennyworth; loyalty.

Alfred was momentarily left astonished when he saw how beautiful the female teacher was - he certainly had no recollection of any of his teachers quite like that, hmph. No wonder, he mused with a brief grin, Master Bruce enjoyed the woman's class, the butler shook his head to clear his thoughts. He knew the last thing he needed was to get distracted by an alluring woman. "No harm done, love, truly." He reassured the teacher as his hand clasped around her much smaller one, giving it a gentle shake before releasing her soft hand.

Alfred found that he didn't quite mind the wait - he welcomed it in fact, assisted him as he tried to piece together what he could say to the woman before him about Bruce. He was a butler, not a father figure, so playing both roles could sometimes be difficult for Alfred. He wasn't used to having the responsibility of guardianship thrusted onto his shoulders - he signed up for minimal tasks. Fortunately for the teacher Alfred was no fool when it came to these sort of things- he knew what this meeting would mainly consist of and he had high doubts that it would have to do with Bruce's intellect.

The young master had always been a bright fellow, always exceeding his peers. It made Alfred, and his departed parents, quite proud of the boy Bruce was growing to be. As the two took their seats across from the teacher's desk the butler hoped that the subject of fighting wouldn't make the young master uncomfortable. Bruce, from what his butler gathered, didn't quite fancy talking about the harassment he received at school - not that Alfred blamed him. "I'm glad you find him to be a gem then, Ms. Ardral," Alfred gave a nod of his head as if to reinforce his statement. He was quite glad that Bruce had not allowed his wealth to effect his personality - the butler wasn't sure he could last if he had to deal with a pigheaded master. "Master Bruce seems to be enjoying his classes as well." If it weren't for the bullies young Bruce would probably enjoy his education process even more, but Alfred bit his tongue.

There was no use ranting to the poor woman - she had no control on the children she taught. Alfred bit back a small grin as he watched the teacher stumble on her wording - clearly trying to be politically correct as possible, but it was obvious who she thought was in the right and who she believed to be in the wrong in the current situation. Maybe Master Bruce's teacher wasn't so awful - she was an attractive lady, with an attitude that seemed to match.

In fact, her presence was almost like a breath of fresh air. It was clear that she wasn't like most the women, or people for that matter, in Gotham - he just couldn't put his finger on what exactly set her apart yet. "There's no need for you to apologize for the other boy's behavior, miss." He, along with Bruce, waved off the apology. What Alfred would have liked was to see the boy and his parents ,for that matter, give Master Bruce an honest apology- they were the ones in the wrong. "Master Bruce is well aware that these altercations are against your school's regulations, but he is merely acting out in defense as you've stated."

Which he was pleased that the teacher saw it that way - his patience would be tested if she had tried to pin it down on the young Wayne. He felt annoyance towards the school, but bit his tongue. The woman didn't deserve negative backlash - she was only enforcing the rules, it wasn't her fault. "As long as this Tommy fellow keeps his bloody paws off Master Bruce I assure you that Bruce will have no complications with abiding by this institutions rules." It was true, Bruce had no desire to fight with his old friend. He just wanted to learn and return back to his manor.

He didn't want to embarrass Bruce, but he needed to rest his own nerves. "Master Bruce, would you mind waiting for us outside of the room?" Bruce did not object as he stood from his place and bid a brief farewell to the teacher before exiting - Alfred just hoped he stayed where he could find him easily. It was getting late and he wanted to get home before the rain started to fall. Once the door was securely shut he turned his attention back to the teacher, "Do you think it would be wise to pull Bruce from school?" He questioned, trusting the female's opinion on the matter. Had he been too obstinate in his decision? Maybe, home studies would be best for Bruce.

[ i'm glad you thought so! i'm so excited, haha. ]

October 6th, 2015 at 09:17am
WhiskeyDreaming (100)

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Oswald Cobblepot | Cunning

She had a fire that made Oswald grin with delight. God this was going to be fun. Oswald could just picture Maroni's face as he learned that his sweet little niece had found her way to Oswald. Ah, the temper-tantrum the rival Don would throw would be legendary. "I hope I did not offend you miss, I only meant to warn you that this isn't the safest district of Gotham." Oswald gasped, feigning a shocked horror at the thought of offending her. Apparently her and her uncle shared the same sentiments of being able to take care of themselves. As Butch staggered over to start packing the desired boxes of vodka Oswald had asked him to, he hoped it threw off suspicions that the two had been talking about her. "Definitely not new to Gotham, I've just never ventured this far into the city." She sounded a bit softer, though not much. That fire still flickered in her eyes that made Oswald forget all about his previous grievances. "This side of city does have a reputation." He agreed, and wanted to ask her what had drawn her here, to him; though kept his mouth shut.

She seemed antsy, maybe like she was regretting coming here. All too soon however, she was glancing around that unease creeping back into her gaze. "It was a pleasure to meet you Oswald, I should probably start heading home, actually." There was a sudden shift, as if he'd turned into a ravenous wolf before this woman's eyes; ready to leap and devour her. However, he was more like a cat. Toying with prey and stalking it before making the killing leap. However, this woman, Maroni's niece, wasn't his target. No her damned, pompous, arrogant, uncle who was the source of many a woe for Oswald was. He'd take away everything Maroni loved and he'd start with this woman. "Well of course, Miss. Get home safely now and have a good night." Oswald all but purred, with the softness of a kitten, and about as much threat as one too. He watched as she fled out the door and down the street, Gotham's night swallowing her up. It didn't take long for Butch to approach after that, his brows furrowed and hands stuck deep in his pockets. "Well? How'd it go? Think she'll come back?" Oswald simply shrugged.

"She was on guard. Clearly. But I think the more Don Maroni tells her not to come back. The more liable she is." Her type was apparent. The independent kind, that hated living under anyone's thumb. And Don Maroni liked to have all those around him under key and lock. She hadn't missed much, the club was close to closing anyway, and Oswald remained seated mulling over what to do. This had to be executed with a fragile delicacy. It would all too easy for her to read his intentions to harm Don Maroni. Or for Oswald to chase her away. There was the possibility that Don Maroni would learn of his moves at his niece, an Oswald's head could end up on the chopping block. But there was the glimmer of possibility that Oswald could finally destroy Don Maroni. And that was too much to pass up. Finally as the club closed and Oswald and Butch lingered, he rubbed his spindly fingers against his chin. "Butch I want you to gather what you can on her. Report back to me. I need to know how to play this."

A knight in shining armor? Or simply play up the Romeo and Juliet affect which would be easy enough to play up.He just needed to woo her, and charm was never Oswald's weak suit. Curiosity would bring her back, that much he was sure of. "Butch, figure out if she's going to any charity events. If so, RSVP me for them. You'll come along as well." Oswald mused as the two sat around in the now empty club, devoid of the music and vivacity that before was there. Oswald was arrogant to think that he couldn't develop feelings for her. That all of this would just be some ploy to destroy one of the men he hated. "You know that if Maroni catches you snooping around his niece he'll string you up right?" Butch almost managed to sound conerned and scoffing, throwing his drink back Oswald shrugged. "Risk is worth the reward. Maroni's head on a platter." Penguin's voice was soft, seething with toxic hatred. He'd been planning Maroni's death for a long time, but now he was close. Close to ripping everything the Don held dear before his death. Maroni would know true hopelessness. Oswald wasn't going to just take away Maroni's hope, he was going to slaughter it all. "Have a goodnight. I'll see you tomorrow." Oswald bade as he stood, gathering his coat and heading out the doors. All the way home images of Maroni's pain, brought Oswald's hand danced in the odd man's head. Tomorrow, he'd Butch would scrounge up information on the wayward niece who'd wandered into Oswald's plans. Tomorrow he would figure out the best way to approach her and blind her to his true intentions.

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Xanthippe Ardral | Innocence

Relief coursed through Xanthippe's as the meeting wore on. Apparently Bruce's high praising of Alfred wasn't just a child's admiration. He was level-headed, calm, and it was obvious how much he cared for the young Wayne boy. Which was fantastic, as Bruce needed someone to care for him. To make sure he didn't do anything foolish, and to help ease the pain of watching his parents die. Instead of chewing her head off about the fighting which had taken place, Alfred had just calmly shrugged it off. "As long as this Tommy fellow keeps his bloody paws off Master Bruce..." It was a reasonable request and Xan nodded. "Of course, Mr. Pennyworth. To be honest we've dealt a little more harshly with Thomas. There shouldn't be any further issues." Kids should be at school to learn, not trying to learn while being constantly on edge about their peers and worried for their own safety. That was something that Xanthippe had always taken very seriously, her student's safety and bullying.

As Alfred turned his gaze on Bruce, asking him to wait outside the teacher smiled at him softly before he left. As the door shut, Alfred wasted no time in asking his concern. "Do you think it would be wise if we pull Bruce from school?" She tried not to look shocked, though let her mind wander over the positives and negatives. "If you pulled him from school I'm sure you could manage a curriculum that would be a little better suited to Bruce's intellect. There would be no need to worry about fights breaking out on the playground." Xanthippe stated her small nose scrunching up with thought. "But he wouldn't get the other peer interaction as much- I assume. There's the chance he could feel isolated in the home constantly, or he could simply develop phobias or anxiety about down the line about stepping out of the home." She let her eyes roam over Alfred's once again finding a grizzled attractiveness to it.

"I personally am a little biased. I would like to see Bruce remain in school. This is a place where most of his peers will form connections for their futures and businesses." She had no doubt that Alfred loved that boy, and it was more like Bruce's uncle rather than butler and guardian. The Wayne's had clearly trusted him in case anything ever happened to them. Xanthippe also felt it wouldn't send a good message to the boy. To give up when the going gets difficult. But she didn't want to overstep any lines and blurt that out, because she could also see where Alfred was coming from. No one who has a child wants to see them coming home with bruises on their face, or to hear that they've been bullied at school. And it wouldn't be too hard for Bruce to be home schooled. Because that too had it's advantages.

"If you are worried, which would completely understandable and between you and me Bruce didn't start any of those fights." Xanthippe wasn't really supposed to mention that to the parents. She was supposed to say that both boys were in th wrong and while she didn't condone violence, she also didn't condone bullying. It must be difficult having gone from butler to butler and caregiver. These were things that Alfred never had to worry about before, and letting her eyes slide towards her door where Bruce was waiting outside she added softly, "So in short, I mean I'm positive that Bruce could handle home-schooling. But I also think that if you leave him enrolled at least until the year finishes out he'll figure everything out and come out fine." She offered Alfred a small smile, her hazel eyes holding depths of warmth and good-intentions. The woman believed that Bruce could do astoundingly well in school, given an adjustment period. Not so much to school, but coming back after the death of his parents. "I know you're new to this parenting thing, but I promise he'll be fine either way. He's a tough kid, and he has a bright future Mr. Pennyworth. Bruce speaks very highly of you, so I would trust your own instincts of what to do with him."

October 6th, 2015 at 08:05pm
maxim adam bemis; (100)

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@ WhiskeyDreaming
Eloisa Maroni; naive.

Eloisa was not new to charity functions and unlike her brothers she quite enjoyed them - whether it be because she was able to dress up or simply because it gave her very limited leeway. However, the brunette mused, she was astonished that she was allowed out of her uncle's line of sight. Sal Morani had been quite displeased with his young niece and he had no quarrel with letting her know that. Upon returning to her brother's apartment, after her venture to Falcone's turf a few nights ago, she was subjected to being berated by her uncle - he swore it was for her own good, but his words only picked at Elle's thinning nerves. Her actions had been ignorant, she was well aware, but she didn't need to be treated like an impudent child.

"You think Bruce Wayne will be here tonight? The young brunette grinned up at her date, or rather one of the men Don Morani sent her with that night. "I feel so bad for the boy." Eloisa knew first hand what it felt like losing both of your parents - but she couldn't imagine how horrific it felt to lose them so young, to actually witness their deaths - it made her shutter. Her date, a young Italian named Vincent, gave a lift of his broad shoulders as he led her thin frame towards the mass of dancing bodies. "Some think they deserved it."" The lack of her date's empathy caused the brunette to crinkle her nose in both annoyance and disgust. What had she been expecting? Some people may have deserved death, but she doubted the Waynes deserved the card of fate they were handed - but despite their conflicting opinions she remained silent. She was no fool when it came to her uncle's men - they only cared for themselves and there was no changing that.

"Doubt the kid will be here though. He keeps himself locked tight in that lil manor of his. Well that was unfortunate - Eloisa had been wanting to give the young Wayne her condolences. She pouted to herself, but said nothing on the matter as she continued the short dance with Vincent, his tattooed arms tight around her petite waist. Despite the fact that she was in the arms of a reasonably handsome man, a male her uncle would no doubt approve of, Eloisa found her eyes wandering over the unfamiliar faces for one person in particular. She knew it was foolish to seek out Oswald Cobblepot, downright idiotic, but regardless she could not put a lid on her growing curiosity.

"You alright, princess? You seem distracted tonight." Eloisa allowed herself to smile - it almost sounded like the boy cared for her well-being. "I'm fine, Vinny, I was just looking around." Eloisa leaned up and pressed a brief kiss to the man's stubbly cheek, a simple gesture of friendship. Vincent didn't look quite convinced, but decided against looking too far into it. Truthfully the young man didn't care all that much if the girl was distracted or not - he was just here for a job, to make sure she didn't run off again, because if she did it would be his head on a platter.

"I'm going to get myself a glass of wine. I won't be long." She gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze before pulling away from his embrace as the song came to an end. "Go find yourself a pretty broad and dance the night away, Sir Vincent." Vincent grinned at the brunette's teasing and didn't bothering mentioning that he was quite content with having just her in his arms, because he knew that Maroni's beautiful niece was off limits. The girl's date figured that no harm could possibly come to Eloisa in the public eye so he took her advice; there were far too many pretty faces to pass up.

That was easier than expected, the girl thought as she neared the bar. As she took a seat on one of the stools she smiled at her peers before ordering herself a drink. Admittedly she wasn't much of a drinker - but she didn't mind a sip of fruity wine here and there. "Thank you, love." She smiled as the bartender, a kind-faced blonde, handed her a glass. As she took a small sip from her glass her slender fingers tapped against the bar - the same tune of the music that played behind her. Charity functions were far more fun when she was a young girl, the brunette decided with another sip of her wine
Alfred Pennyworth; loyalty.

"Of course, Mr. Pennyworth. To be honest we've dealt a little more harshly with Thomas. There shouldn't be any further issues." The teacher's soft voice left the Butler feeling slightly better with the situation at hand. He knew very little of how the situation had been treated except for the fact that both boys were handed detention – it was good to know the other boy was actually being dealt with. Even when Alfred had been a boy he knew that bullies were hardly dealt with accordingly – and if they were they simply came back worse. Alfred knew that after their lessons Bruce could handle his own more so now than before, but it didn't make the predicament any better in Alfred's eyes. Bruce didn't need to feel on edge while trying to tend to his studies – the boy had been through far too much in the past year. Truly, the caregiver fretted over the unanswered question that maybe he pushed the young boy to come back to school far too early.

Had he given him the appropriate amount of time to grieve? He was well aware that the decision to pull Bruce from school could possibly have more cons than pros – but it was the only thing he could think of. It wasn't just because of the fights, Alfred told himself, he was more so trying to figure out what would be best for the young boy. "But he wouldn't get the other peer interaction as much- I assume. There's the chance he could feel isolated in the home constantly, or he could simply develop phobias or anxiety about down the line about stepping out of the home." The Butler nodded his head as he listened to the teacher's advice – she was only putting a voice to his thoughts.

"Right, right. We wouldn't want that." He voiced, because the last thing he wanted was for the young master to develop phobias or some type of anxiety. It was good for the boy to get out – he didn't need to be cooped up with just himself and the old Butler. It wasn't fair and like the teacher mentioned he would only feel isolated. He didn't want to be the cause of any grievances Bruce may experience in his approaching future – he wanted his childhood to run smoothly, because despite the fact he was only a Butler he did care for the lad. He wasn't sure if the woman was just telling him what she thought he longed to hear, but the reassurance was helping him. Since the death of the Waynes he felt a weight on his shoulders, a constant weight that pinned down his mind. He didn't want to let them down or Bruce, because he knew the boy was meant for great things. "I believe it'll be beneficial to keep Master Bruce in school for now,"

He concluded once the teacher had become quiet. Abandoning the school would be the easy way out and that's not how he wanted Bruce to skate by in life – he wanted Bruce to know that quitting because things were tough shouldn't always be an option. "Thank you for your opinion on the matter, Ms. Ardral. I was a bit at a loss and I assume that your instinct is valued by Bruce. The warmth of the woman's eyes truly had the Butler captivated – such good intentions and genuine care for others was rare in the city of Gotham. The stunning Goddess of a woman truly looked out of place, "Excuse my prying Ms.," Alfred started, his curiosity getting the best of him. He knew anything about the woman was none of his concern – and he was well aware that the teacher was probably waiting anxiously so she could hurry home – but nonetheless he still voiced his question; the question that had been bugging him throughout their short meeting.

"Are you new to Gotham?" She had to of been – he mused – there was absolutely no way she grew up here. Most women that had resided in Gotham since birth had a certain hardness about them – not that the Butler blamed them very much – Gotham was not fit to be home for ladies, it was a home for criminals. Of course, he wouldn't admit all of this to the woman; he wouldn't want to come off as if he had paid much attention to her face. Ms. Ardral was a beautiful woman and he would have been a fool to believe she wasn't spoken for – she probably had a mister she was in a hurry to get back to.

October 7th, 2015 at 08:23am

dark times || closed.

maxim adam bemis; (100)

maxim adam bemis; (100)

WhiskeyDreaming (100)

maxim adam bemis; (100)

WhiskeyDreaming (100)

maxim adam bemis; (100)