Blood from Stone [AU]

[Vigile]

"Why?"

[Coquette Blacquin]

"For example, my vigilante work has to remain secret, or it will not be effective," she reasons. "My family could be in danger."

[Vigile]

"Lord zi'Tethras is aware," the feline points out. "He has connections and other resources that could be very useful. Ladies Bethany and Merrill would be happy to provide healing or other support, an avenue closed only by their understandable desire to have answers as to the source of the injuries. The wise Seeker could be even more helpful than the Lord in regards to information. Not one of them would betray you either."

[Coquette Blacquin]

"Perhaps," she says, with a small sigh. "We shall see how they feel about me when Liz is settled. But... perhaps you're right. Perhaps I am too hasty to reject help."

[Vigile]

Vigile purrs loudly, rubbing her chin again. "I am glad you are willing to consider it. But I should return to Liz and assure her that, yes, you do wish for her to return to you after you are both healed. Poor lass, she values herself so... well, poorly would imply she values herself at all." He sighs gustily before dropping back on all four paws so he can leave.

[Coquette Blacquin]

"She-- wait, she asked you that? What did she... what did she say?" Fear grips Cindy's heart again. Does she think I'm sending her away to die?

[Vigile]

Vigile pauses, turning his head back to look at her. "She is worried that you have decided to be rid of her, entirely and for good. No, that is not... it is not a worry but rather a dread. She is aware that you almost certain did not mean it in that fashion but..."

[Coquette Blacquin]

Cindy is quiet, letting him trail off. "I... I don't know. I love her, there's no doubt of that. But... is mere love... is it enough? To stay together? If we're so disastrous for each other... I am not counting on her returning to me. If it happens, it will be a relief and a mercy, but I don't... I don't know."

[Vigile]

"So if she heals enough that she is no longer a danger to herself, you would welcome her return, should she wish to do so," Vigile asks, seeking to be clear.

[Coquette Blacquin]

"I... I would be willing to talk about it," she says slowly. "In all likelihood yes, but I don't... I don't want to make a promise I'll have to break later."

[Vigile]

Vigile considers that, then nods. "Do you wish to keep her in your life and to stay in hers during this... suspension of mate status?"

[Coquette Blacquin]

"I..."

Now she looks a little lost. "I don't know. I'll have to think about it."

[Vigile]

"...that seems like it might be somewhat time sensitive?" Vigile comments hesitantly.  "If only because we have a raid planned two night hence."

[Coquette Blacquin]

She stares at him in horror. "al... alright. I'll think about it tonight."

[Vigile]

"As you say. Perhaps it might be best for a guard patrol to... chase a cat into that warehouse? We will lose the chance to find their supplier, but I don't doubt we'll have other chances. Devil weed and dream crystal sellers are not exactly uncommon."