regency } { of reunions and hard questions

[anendlesswar]

Dina: [is well aware of Jason's arrival at the manor and since they haven't seen each other since she snuck off to his tent and he asked to court her, and she's not entirely sure what to do with any of that at the moment. And Suzanne's told her all kinds of things about the cool-tempered Duke of Concord. While things certainly weren't cool between them in his tent, she knows that he has an image he projects so she's just ... not going to over-eagerly meet him at the door. She'll leave that for Patience to deal with. She'll hide out in the library, and if he wants to see her, he'll come find her. Because that's the sane thing to do, clearly. Look, she doesn't have a ton of experience in the courting department. Is this playing hard to get? Can she technically play hard to get when they've already been slightly more intimate than deemed appropriate with courtly manners? Questions she cannot answer yet is just going to lean into this idea anyway.]

Jason: [he's going to explore the manor on his own, a quiet shadow taking everything in. He's heard of the amazing library from Patience and Sam, so he decides to take a look at it himself. He's not expecting to find Dina quite yet -- he was planning to do that once night had fallen]

Dina: [and she hears footsteps coming, a gait that's not quite as familiar to her as the rest of her family, which means either Jason or his mother. She promptly selects a book to bury her nose in and finds a comfortable chair to curl up in in a dark corner of the library and wait out whoever this is. And maybe if it takes him long enough to find her she'll actually be enjoying her book and have completely forgotten about him]

Jason: [and he will open the door to enter. The library was massive, but he had seen libraries all over the world. Still, he took a moment to just look at everything, appreciating the atmosphere. He doesn't notice her just yet.]

Dina: [good, then she'll just enthrall herself in a book of poetry and completely forget about why she was hiding in the library in the first place]

Jason: [then she will get a treat, because the normally on guard, watchful, serious man is enthralled by the library, his face soft and happy--not as happy as he is when he sees her, but close--as he approaches the shelf filled with leather-bound books and runs his finger along one he has never seen before]

Dina: [the footsteps have gotten closer now, and eventually she glances over and sees him looking at the book. She knows which one it is from having grown up in this library, but she hesitates on interrupting. she still doesn't know where they stand, but that's also never stopped her before, so she simply takes a breath] That one is my mother's. My father bought it for her when he was courting her.

Jason: [he jumps, actually visibly jumps, at her voice from nowhere. He steps back, hands snapping to his side as he looks in the direction of the voice, trying to find her] My apologies. I didn't realize anyone was here.

Dina: [she's not far, and when she sees the way he startles, she attempts to make herself known more, pushing up from her chair and stepping into the line of the aisle] It's a big library. There's probably more people here than you think.

Jason: Well, this is my first trip here, so I will defer to your knowledge of this place.

Dina: Patience didn't come down to escort you?

Jason: My mother is doting on Patience and Lord Winchester at the moment. I snuck away. [like he always does]

Dina: I see. [she forgot the dowager duchess was here too. great. even more awkwardness] Well, this is the Stilinski wing. Uncle Derek's wing is over there. [She points to the back half of the library] The only part of the collection that doesn't reside here is my Uncle Peter's - he keeps it at the summer castle.

Jason: Which one here is your favorite?

Dina: [she pauses, weighing on whether she should answer truthfully or give the expected answer, but she's also not one to really lie, so she goes with the truth. She reaches over and points to the spine two volumes down] Le Livre de la Cité des Dames.

Jason: Ah, yes. The City of Ladies. Probably one of Pizan's greatest works, along with Le Tresor de la Cité des Dames de Degré en Degré.

Dina: [she nods] I was less fond of what came after. It was all about being a good wife which ... it's not hard to be a good wife if you have a good husband. But the first is about finding resolve in a world where your womanhood would be used against you. It ... spoke to me.

Jason: I always interpreted the book as being an advocacy for a woman's education and the strength she provides to our society. The foundation and walls for which a city is composed of.

Dina: [she nods] Something like that, yes.

Jason: I have a friend in the court from when I was young who threw the book at me. Literally. [chuckles] She could only get the first one, a dirty copy someone's husband probably threw into the streets. I purchased the rest for her, after I read them of course.

Dina: That was nice of you. [she feels uncomfortable in her own skin, like she doesn't know what to do, standing here talking with him like nothing's happened. she doesn't know what to expect or say or even change the subject because this is not what she wants to talk about, but now she's trapped in it] I'm sure she appreciated it.

Jason: Oh, she did. [blinks, then looks at Dina] Not in a way that would be frowned upon, that is. [those kinds of night came far later]

Dina: [and that ... makes her even more awkward, and she turns to walk away and go back to her poetry] I didn't think it was.

Jason: Then you are also more gracious than most women in court. That is usually the first thing they think of when looking at me.

Dina: [mutters to herself] Or more naïve. [she then shakes her head, and at full volume] I think that says more about them than it does about you.

Jason: [and he stays quiet, wishing he could prove her right, but knowing that he can't.] I hear your father has made a full recovery. [changing the subject]

Dina: [goes to resettle in her chair and nods] Yes, he's doing much better.

Jason: And you? How have you been since we last spoke.

Dina: Me? [she shrugs] Fine, I suppose. [she still doesn't know how to navigate this conversation] Nothing terrible has happened in the interim.

Jason: I am pleased to hear that. [he's not sure either. He thought he'd have more time, figure out the right things to say and do] I apologize for not writing. I was... [on a job] indisposed with a court matter.

Dina: I'm sure. [she adjusts her skirts as she curls up on one of the oversized armchairs] You do seem to be quite busy.

Jason: I'm the head of the household and a Duke within the court. It doesn't come without its responsibilities.

Dina: And clearly those take a much higher priority. [her tone is flat, not disputing him, but not exactly congenial either]

Jason: [and he will look at the ground and sigh. He's torn, a twinge anxious, sad, but also feeling angry at himself] I can only give you my sincerest apologies, m'lady. My lack of writing does not mean that you have not been in my thoughts and dreams ever since I left your side last.

Dina: [glances over at him, and she can hear his sincerity, but is it enough? part of her wants it to be, but she doesn't want to be a toy either, especially considering the way she almost got too carried away that night. She glances to the side, really listening to insure there is no one else in the library before rising from her seat and pulling him forward into the depths of the library where they will have more privacy to speak freely. Especially considering her brother has revealed himself to not be Jason's biggest fan] You claimed to wish to court me and then I hear no word from you for months. I honestly didn't know what to think. Or what to expect. Though perhaps I should have expected that as it seems you have quite the reputation in court for being withholding.

Jason: [and he winces at that, because it is true. And he has other reputations as well] It was mostly because of my duties, I promise you. [he's not lying] And, as i realized how far time had passed, I feared perhaps you would have changed your mind, seeing that our moment was during a troubling time for you, that perhaps you felt you could do better than me. I would not have blamed you.

Dina: [and she glances away because maybe she should have. Maybe other ladies of court would have, if they are used to having options, or not scaring men off at every turn or simply not having wolf hearts that don't want to let go when they've become attached.] It doesn't work that way. Instead, all it did was hurt.

Jason: Something I never intended to do, and am so sorry I failed to live up to your expectations of me.

Dina: Was I wrong to expect that? [she doesn't know if it's a failing if she simply didn't understand the context of what he was asking of her]

Jason: [shakes his head, a small, sad smile on his lips] No, it is mine. You deserved better from me, and I am the one at fault.

Dina: [she nods. so at least she knows her sadness is in the right place] So what does this mean now? [does he still want her, or is this his long way of saying that he changed his mind?]

Jason: It means that I am begging your forgiveness. And asking for a second chance, to be a proper suitor worthy of your attention.

Dina: You only get one. [second chance that is.]

Jason: [and he will look up at her, confused, unsure if she meant that he only got one chance, or if she meant a second chance.]

Dina: Second chance. [she'll clarify] You only get one second chance. Fool me again, and I'll simply assume that my brother is right about you. [and she does hate admitting when Ben is right.]

Jason: Thank you. [he will think a moment, then reach into his jacket and pull out a folded piece of paper] I didn't think I would see you until later, but I have had this on me for awhile, and wanted to give it to you. [he held it out, a portrait of her face and shoulders drawn from his memory while he was on mission. The strokes resemble the ones she would have seen looking at the map he had drawn]

Dina: [she takes it from him, unfolding the paper and what she sees makes her feel a little gooey inside. A flicker of a smile crosses her face, before she resolves herself again, and closes it with a nod] It's lovely. Thank you.

Jason: I have kept it close to my heart. I was not lying when I said you have been on my mind and in my dreams.

Dina: [and it is rather charming] And what did you dream about? [just out of curiosity]

Jason: [and he will blush and look away a moment] Um...

Dina: [and that just makes her eyebrow raise even more] With that reaction, your silence isn't necessarily helping your case.

Jason: I admit I am a victim of my hormones. But it was not all that. At least, not how many of them started. The one I return to often has us riding along a river, me trying to recite horrible poetry or make up songs to entertain you. You somehow found it endearing. Then we would have a picnic near a waterfall.

Dina: [and that gets him a soft smile] That sounds lovely.

Jason: I've also dreamt of taking you to India. It is beautiful there. Like nothing I'd ever seen before.

Dina: I've never been that far from here.

Jason: Perhaps I can take you one day? I think you would love it.

Dina: Maybe, one day. [after he's fully courted her and put an actual ring on it, maybe. she has a feeling her parents won't let him sweep her away to another continent without it]

Jason: One day. [and he will look out the window to see where the sun is] I should find my mother. She's probably noticed my absence by now.

Dina: [nods and steps back] Of course. You shouldn't keep her waiting.

Jason: Perhaps you will allow me to introduce you to her?

Dina: Right now?

Jason: No, I don't want to spring that on you. But dinner tonight, if it is one we are allowed to share with your family?

Dina: [she nods] Yes, I'm sure that would be fine. [and hopefully her family won't ask too many questions about it]

Jason: Until tonight then. [he will bow, holding his hand out for hers]

Dina: [and she will give it to him, because she has manners]

Jason: [and he will kiss her knuckles, his hand gently squeezing hers gently, a silent thank you for her willingness to give him a second chance]

Dina: [and she smiles, before taking her hand back. Part of her wants more than a kiss to her hand, but they'll have time for that later] I'll see you at dinner.

Jason: Until then. [and there will be a spring to his step as he leaves the library to locate his mother and sister]

Mercy: [and she is in one of the sitting rooms, chatting with Patience and Sam, being her friendly chatty self. She looks up at the sound of footsteps and holds out a hand for him] There you are. Did you get lost?

Jason: Yes and no. [and he will go to his mother's side, taking her hand]

Mercy: [raises an eyebrow curiously, but will just keep her hand in his] Well, I think I talked your ears off for long enough. Perhaps we should get settled in our rooms and rest up for dinner?

Jason: Yes, mother.

Sam: Of course. I can show you both where you'll be staying.

Mercy: That would be lovely. Thank you, Sam. [moves over to Patience to kiss her on the cheek] I'll see you at dinner.

Patience: [nods with a smile] Yes, see you then.

Sam: [and he will lead them both to Derek's wing, showing the suite of rooms where guests usually stay, including his father and brother in the winter months] I hope these will suit you, Duchess.

Mercy: Oh, it's more than enough. Thank you. [and she's still got her son's hand, don't run away when Sam leaves, Jason] Go back to your wife, we'll be fine from here.

Sam: I'll have someone come get you for dinner. Let me know if you need anything else. [and he will go]

Jason: [moooooooooom]

Mercy: [waits until Sam's out of earshot, before glancing back to her son with a smirk] So. Did your little disappearance have to do with this girl you won't tell me about?

Jason: I was actually trying to get the lay of the land. But yes, I did find her.

Mercy: So ... [she goes to close the door to the sitting room behind them before continuing to grill them for information] What happened?

Jason: You know how I've been feeling guilty being on assignments without any time to myself. In short, I wasn't able to write as I had hoped to. I couldn't reveal my travels from postage, even for courting. But I begged her forgiveness, and she is willing to give me another chance to court her. I can't mess this up, Mother.

Mercy: [sighs as she reaches for his hands] You know, you could always send the letters to me and I could send them for you. You also are welcome to find other forms of employment if this girl means so much to you.

Jason: You know the Crown won't let me go. [he keeps his voice low, knowing the existence of werewolf ears] I'll be forced to choose between love and country, and if I don't have a sanctuary for us both before then, it will not go well for us.

Mercy: You aren't the only one who has been working on an exit strategy, and it's not as though we don't have our own allies. [she steps forward, cupping his face in her hands] You are more important to me than any comfort. You know that, don't you?

Jason: I know, Mother. [sometimes he doesn't feel worthy of that love anymore.] But I will always put your safety over mine.

Mercy: That's not your job.

Jason: Yes, it is. Father would want me to. Someone has to put you first, and the court is cruel to those who don't fit their standards. I'll never let them hurt you.

Mercy: Jason. You will have to live with this court much longer than I will. And public opinion has never been in my favor to begin with. At the same time, your father's will was impeccably detailed so that I would be cared for in terms of comfort. He didn't want you to have to worry.

Jason: He also didn't know what would follow after his death. [takes a deep breath, trying to focus himself] Maybe I shouldn't court my lady. As it is, she doesn't know who I truly am or the things I've done.

Mercy: Is that truly what you want? Because this is a second chance, Jason, you may not get a third.

Jason: I know I won't. And I'll end up like Ana. At least she enjoys her work.

Mercy: Is it what you want? [she knows she can't stop him, one way or another, but she really wants him to think about if it's worth hurting this girl]

Jason: No, of course not!

Mercy: Then don't waste it. Life is too short to not go after what you want.

Jason: [thinks] I need to tell her. I know I shouldn't, but she needs to know the risks. It wouldn't be right to start this relationship without her knowing, right?

Mercy: I think we both know the Hales know how to keep secrets.

Jason: I know. As can the Stilinskis.

Mercy: So if you think she is the right choice, then take the risk.

Jason: Okay. [deep breath] I told her I would introduce you to her tonight.

Mercy: Do I get a hint as to which one it is? [she raises an eyebrow curiously] It's not one of Patience's sisters, is it? [that's mostly teasing because she can guess that from the mention of the Stilinskis that it's either Claudia or Joy and Joy is too young for her son]

Jason: [laughs] No, that would be weird, and I think Patience would hurt me.

Mercy: I would agree. She might find it a little too close for comfort.

Jason: You will just have to wait until dinner.

Mercy: [dramatic sigh] If I must.

Jason: [leans over to kiss his mother's cheek] I'm not ignorant enough to believe you already know who it is, Mother, but thank you for waiting for me to tell you myself.

Mercy: [she laughs] Seems like the least I could do. You usually only keep secrets if it's important to you.

Jason: That makes me sound like I'm a horrible spy.

Mercy: No. I meant personal secrets, not professional ones.

Jason: Still. [he smiles though] I should probably wash up and see what I brought that will make me look charming.

Mercy: [she nods] I should do the same. We'll go down together?

Jason: Of course. Need to make sure you behave yourself. [grins]

Mercy: I behave just fine, thank you. [and she shoos him off] Go. I'll be here when you're ready.

Jason: Yes, Mother. [and he will stride off to what he assumes is his room in the suite to get ready]

Mercy: [yep, and she will do the same in hers, taking her time and lingering over what to wear]

Jason: And after realizing he owns way too much black clothing, he will settle on a simple black undershirt with a black jacket and pants. He doesn't adorn with vests of scarfs, more of a habit than lacking in the fanciness. He's adjusting his cuffs as he exits back to the main room to find his mother]

Mercy: [and she's much more extravagantly dressed in comparison because she likes bright colors, finely embroidered gowns and jeweled statement pieces] Are you ready?

Jason: [taking a deep, calming breath] I think so. [and he will hold out his arm for her]

Mercy: [and she will take it, and down they will go for dinner!]

Derek: [which, of course, will be a banquet to welcome their guests. Lots of people, children everywhere, all warned that the guests don't know about werewolves and to be on their best behaviors]

Mercy: [and she will be charming as per usual, enjoying the food, drink and adult conversation]

Dina: [will be at the other end of the table with her brother and Hope]

Jason: [and he's going to be cordial and greet those he knows from the tourney circuit or court, all the while sneaking glances and smiles in Dina's direction]

Dina: [notices and nods in his direction but tries not to be too obvious so Ben doesn't pick up on it]

Ben: [yeah, if Hope isn't distracting him well enough, he will at one point and scowl, but not say anything because they are in public and he promised his parents he would behave]

Jason: [and he will eventually make his way over, bowing to the threesome] Lady Stilinski. Lord Stilinski. Lady Mikelson. It's a pleasure to see you all again.

Hope: A pleasure to see you as well, your grace. Did you have a good journey here?

Jason: I did. The countryside is always beautiful this time of year.

Hope: It is. We're so glad you could join us. I know Patience has been excited about your visit for weeks. [and totally not mentioning the other Stilinski who was excited because she knows how this goes with Ben]

Ben: [Yup, no. He got a double dose of stubbornness from his parents, as well as his uncle's issues with anger control--he's getting better at it, though] My father has also been eager to properly thank you for your part in rescuing him.

Jason: I'm sure it was more about my mother than me, but it is nice to hear that none the less. [looks at Ben, trying to evaluate how he can fix what lingers between them] And your father is a great man. Coming to his aid was the least I could do.

Dina: I'm sure he'll be here soon. [especially since her mother has just appeared in the doorway]

Jason: Of course. [while he's met Cora and Stiles before, he's not sure he's ready for a 'meet the parents' moment with Dina at his side. And he still had to introduce her to his own mother. He tries to appear calm, but his heart might be beating a bit faster from nerves]

Dina: [Dina's sure not ready for that either, not when she's still unclear on where they stand. and she's just going to finish her drink before glancing to the rest of the group] More wine, anyone?

Ben: Yes, please.

Jason: Do you need help getting them? [aka can we move away from your brother for a moment]

Hope: I'll have some too.

Dina: [nods as she gathers glasses] That would be helpful, thank you.

Jason: [and he will take half of them and follow her] You look radiant, m'lady.

Dina: [glances up at him with a small smile and keeps her voice low] Thank you.

Jason: Your brother still doesn't like me, does he?

Dina: He certainly has strong feelings about you.

Jason: I don't even recall what I did to upset him.

Dina: You were unable to talk Hope Mikaelson out of going after my father with you, alone.

Jason: That? I'm pretty sure he is aware no one can talk Lady Mikaelson out of anything. She would have followed me if I didn't allow her to come with me, and then I wouldn't be able to protect her. Not that she needed it, anyway.

Dina: Yes, well, my brother is not always the most logical about things when it comes to Hope.

Jason: I understand that feeling, at least.

Dina: I'm sure he'll get over it one day. [or at least she hopes]

Jason: I do hope so, if only for their relationship. I can tell Hope loves him.

Dina: She does. And he loves her, however I'm not sure he was prepared to play second to a leader in her own right.

Jason: And it is easier to be mad at me than her or his own ego.

Dina: More or less, I suppose. [she doesn't think Ben sees it that way, but it's how she's seeing it at the moment]

Jason: [licks his lips, considering his options. He needed Ben on his side, eventually. And while Jason didn't want to be the punching bag for the eldest of the Stilinski siblings, maybe it would be best to take it for now until Ben and Hope figured themselves out] Well, as much as I don't like being the villain in his world, if it allows him the time to find a balance with Lady Mikaelson, I will brunt it. For now.

Dina: [raises her eyebrows] I don't think cowing yourself for my brother's benefit is going to do him any favors.

Jason: Yes, but right now I am a guest in your home. I don't want to make waves that could lead to us leaving too soon.

Dina: I wasn't implying you should be rude. [finishes pouring the last of the glasses] I was simply saying that you shouldn't have to yield to his expectations.

Jason: But what if I truly was a villain, hiding in plain sight? [it's a teasing smile, even if he feels that there is a thread of truth in it]

Dina: [well she rolled a natural 20 on that sense motive, so she looks up at him sharply and asks him plainly] Are you?

Jason: No. [instant reaction. He wasn't to her. Never to her]

Dina: [and she will ... choose to believe that for now] Good.

Jason: Though there is something I need to talk to you about. Later, though.

Dina: [nods, and she lifts two of the glasses and nods for him to take the other two] Alright. Later.

Jason: [which he will, following her back to the foursome.]

Hope: [takes the glass with a nod] Thank you.

Dina: Anything interesting happen while we are gone?

Ben: [having heard all that because werewolf] Mom and Dad arrived.

Dina: [she figured as much, but she's going to pretend she hasn't and go to move towards them] Good. I'll go say hello. [and she'll leave Ben, Hope and Jason alone]

Hope: [who also heard all of that, is just going to sip her wine] So how was your journey, your grace.

Jason: Relaxing. Sometimes I forget how stressful London can be until I leave it for nicer locations.

Hope: I've never been to London. Though from how many people I hear live there, I imagine it's dense, like Paris.

Jason: It is. Especially when the summer heat passes and the foul air drifts away with the autumn breeze.

Ben: The only reason I can survive tourneys there is because I'm already use to the smell of sweat and grime, so you hardly notice the smell of the city.

Hope: I'm used to odd smells. I grew up in a bayou.

Jason: That's somewhere I haven't been.

Hope: It's lovely. Maybe the next time you come to Paris, I could show you around. Orleans isn't far.

Jason: I would like that. [he does look at Ben, not a smirk but instead with brows raised, as if he is asking if he is fine with that]

Ben: [glowers, but nods] Just remember to wear high leather boots.

Hope: [looks at Ben because come on. trust her please] He's right. Definitely wear clothes you're not fond of. I've learned to leave my nicer dresses at my father's manor in Orleans.

Ben: [he's getting there.]

Jason: I think I have a few items that I'd be willing to sacrifice to see your home.

Hope: Lovely. I'm sure my mother would be happy to show you around. [and likely haze you a bit, but that's what the bayou wolves do]

Jason: Then I will write you when I know of my next visit to Paris.

Hope: Wonderful. Just give me enough notice in case I'm here instead of home, and I will see you then.

Jason: Then perhaps you'll also join us, Lord Stilinski?

Ben: Perhaps. [depends on what Hope wants.]

Hope: Ben is always welcome, wherever I go.

Ben: As long as we're not visiting your Uncle Kol for too long. [and he cracks a smirk]

Hope: [smiles] I promise we will only make a brief trip to the manor.

Ben: [smiles back]

Jason: [looking to see where Dina is in relation to his mother] Excuse me, I should introduce Dina to my mother. I'll bring her over and introduce you both as well, if you'd like.

Hope: [small shrug] I wouldn't mind.

Ben: It'd be only proper.

Jason: Then I will be back soon. [and off he goes toward Dina]

Dina: [and she is talking to her father while Joy lingers nearby, totally eavesdropping like the nosy sister she is]

Jason: [and he will approach, staying just off to the side because, well, she's talking to her father]

Dina: [sees him in her periphery but doesn't want to make it seem like she notices since she's facing away from him. Joy is standing over her shoulder and gives her father a Look, as though to say "the drama."]

Stiles: [always drama in this manor, some way or another. He will also see Jason and nod to him before turning to Dina] I believe we have a visitor waiting to speak with us.

Dina: [and then she will turn, see him and nod] Yes, Your Grace? [because they're not doing this now right?]

Jason: [shakes his head just minutely to make sure she knows it's not about that] Good evening, Lord and Lady Stilinski. I was hoping to introduce m'Lady to my mother. She is interested in meeting those I call friends here.

Cora: [raises an eyebrow at her daughter before glancing to her husband]

Stiles: [looks at Cora, then back at Jason] After everything you have done for me, Duke Walters, I see no problem in that. In fact, I would ask for you to introduce myself and my wife to your mother as well.

Dina: [oh good. the whole family. This is fine. Dina plasters on a thin smile as she looks back at him]

Jason: It would be an honor. [and he will hold out his arm to escort Dina as he walked the Stilinski family over to his mother.] Mother, it's my honor to introduce to you Lord and Lady Stilinski, and their daughters Claudia and Joy.

Mercy: [turns and greets them all with a wide smile] It's so lovely to meet you all. Patience has told me so much about you.

Dina: [so trying not to be nervous but hey, at least with her family here, it's a Stilinski introduction and not a "I want to court this girl" introduction]

Stiles: She speaks well of you as well. As well, I am in debt to your son for coming to my rescue and saving my life.

Mercy: My son does have a head for doing the right thing. He grew up well.

Stiles: It is very evident in his manner. Please know if there is anything my family can provide, we are at your service.

Mercy: [she has an idea that her son might ask for his daughter, but she'll let Jason handle that] I doubt we will but if it happens, I will let you know.

Jason: [yeah, that's a conversation for another day. But he will squeeze Dina's hand and give her a smile. So far so good]

Stiles: [completely oblivious to his daughter's affection towards Jason] Thank you. [and he will probably go on with getting to know you chit-chat if no one stops him]

Mercy: [yep that's fine, and Mercy will play along, easily distracting the parents if Jason wants to make his escape]

Jason: [and he will gently tug on Dina's arm and motion for them to slip away]

Dina: [and she will go with him, and if they're going to sneak out of the banquet all, Hope will also play her part and keep Ben's attention on her and not what his sister is doing. Joy sees though. And she'll definitely be taking notes for later]

Jason: [while he may not be a werewolf, Jason sees Joy's attention on them and he will just walk with Dina] Your sister is probably going to follow us.

Dina: No she won't. [Joy won't leave the party, but she will be taking note of the comings and goings]

Jason: I was hoping we could take a walk and talk privately for a moment.

Dina: [she glances over her shoulder, before taking his hand and pulling him towards the kitchen, which has an exit out onto the grounds]

Jason: [and he will go easily, letting himself be pulled along. She knows the grounds better than him]

Dina: [yep, and out they'll go, leading the way out to her grandmother's spot - no one would be there this time of night]

Jason: [he's memorizing the path that she takes so he could backtrace it on his own if needed.]

Dina: [and once they reach the bench near the river, she'll turn to face him again] No one should be out here tonight.

Jason: Good. [and he will take her hands and guide her to sit next to him] I need to confess something, which you must promise to keep to yourself. Just telling you this could put you in danger, but you deserve to know this before I ask your father permission to court you.

Dina: [and she goes with him, her brow furrowing in concern] What is it?

Jason: You asked me if I was a villain. To you, and your family, never. But to others, I am.

Dina: [okay, that's ... concerning] What do you mean?

Jason: [looks at their hands, licking his lips] After my father died, I was still very young. The Crown 'recruited' me to be groomed as a spy for the court. They threatened to reveal Patience's origins if she refused, which would have destroyed my family and made it harder on your uncle and his line.

Dina: [there's a moment as she processes this, brow creasing as she tries to follow the information] What kind of spy? [because there are layers]

Jason: I did whatever the crown told me to do. Sometimes it was to follow people in the city, or go to tourney to listen for signs of unrest among the peasants. Charm or earn favors from prominent people, turn in those plotting against the Crown or their interests.

Dina: So it was about leverage. [makes sense. kind of] And what does the crown know about my family?

Jason: The Hales, the Crown has known about for a few generations. Before even your grandparents.

Dina: [nods because well ... that's not great. But she believes him] Is that how you learned?

Jason: [nods] My mentor [he all but spits that word] was assigned to learn about your father and his connection to the Hales. I learned about your father from the journals my mentor kept. I read what he rose from, and it was inspiring.

Dina: I'm sure it was. [putting a pin in this mentor talk, they'll come back to this] Why are you telling me this?

Jason: I've been made to do a lot of things I'm not proud of. I can't in good conscious continue this without you knowing my situation. But I promise you, I will not spy on your family for the Crown. They haven't asked me to, yet. But trying to get away from this life could just be leading me to my death.

Dina: If you officially court me, they may ask you to. Spy, that is. And if you refuse what then?

Jason: Punish me. Blackmail me, threaten my mother and sister. Lock me up in the tower never to be seen again. Or they would just send someone to kill me.

Dina: None of those sound like good things, Jason.

Jason: I know.

Dina: [and she glances away because that risks her too.] How much did your mentor tell you about people like me?

Jason: A lot. He made me memorize the entire Argent manual.

Dina: [okay, well, she probably should ask Aunt Kate about what the Argents know about these things, but ...] Is there anything in there about mates?

Jason: There are some theories about spreading of the blood and powers it bestows on if a human is mated with weres. Otherwise it mainly talks about mating for life, and when one dies, the other mate is soon to follow.

Dina: [oh good, it's got the main part] It's not a grand exaggeration. It's true. It depends on the strength of the bond but even if it doesn't kill them, they're never quite the same. [a pause as she tries to get to the point] I just want you to be aware of the risks, should we continue on this course.

Jason: I am. And this is why I needed to tell you this, because I am willing to risk this to get to know you. But I don't want the pressures and dangers of my life to become a burden onto you. This is the other reason I didn't write--I didn't want the letters to be intercepted and draw attention to you.

Dina: [and she takes a breath because she doesn't know what to do. She doesn't know how to respond to any of this. And she doesn't think she can give him an answer right this second] I need time.

Jason: I understand. And if you decide not to continue, I will respect your choice. [but he really hopes not to face that circumstance]

Dina: [she's not sure she wants it either, but she has to think] Is there anything else? [because she doesn't think she should be here, alone with him]

Jason: When you're at court, you may hear rumors of me. Some of them are not pleasant, and many hold an ounce of truth to them.

Dina: That's true of many people at court.

Jason: [and he will lower his eyes. There's something more about his feelings, akin to shame] I do what the Crown orders, and because of that, I... I am not nearly as pure as other men who might seek your hand.

Dina: [well that ... she doesn't care about as much. She honestly guessed from the way he touched her before that she was not his first in that respect] I don't care, as long as if you take my hand you are loyal to it as long as you have it.

Jason: I shall be.

Dina: Then that is all that matters to me. [she looks away] But I still need time.

Jason: I know. Shall I escort you back to the dining hall? I promised your brother and Lady Mikaelson that I would introduce them to my mother

Dina: [part of her doesn't want to, but she also knows he's not familiar with the grounds] Do you need help finding your way back?

Jason: I don't need help, thank you. I have an ability to retrace paths like an ant returning home.

Dina: [she nods] Then I think I will stay out here for a little while. It's a good place to think.

Jason: [he nods, lifting her hand to his lips to kiss them, then gets up to go. He goes to leave, then takes one last look back at her, his proper duke mask gone and just the sad, resigned face of someone far older than he should be remains. But that is only for her, being his real self, before he slips the mask back on and heads to fulfill his promise]

Dina: [and she will do the thing she gets from her mother where she will lose track of time with her swirling thoughts and just ... not come back for a while or until someone comes to get her]

Stiles: [which will be him, since her brother is busy talking to the Duchess, and Joy had informed him that Dina had yet to return on her walk with the Duke] Claudia? Are you still out here?

Dina: [glances over and swipes at her cheeks, just to make sure her face is clean before turning to face him] Yes, I'm here.

Stiles: [and while it's been months since his kidnapping, some of the scars on his back liked to give phantom pains when out in the cold. So he will hold onto a tree, a wool coat over him even though it wasn't winter yet. He knows the look of his children when they are upset, and he sighs] What's wrong, Dina?

Dina: [she knows he knows, but she's going to lie all the same, giving him a small smile] Nothing. I'm fine.

Stiles: [and he snorts, moving to go sit beside her, trying not to groan as he sits.] Do you know how many times your mother tried to pass that one by me when we were your age? It didn't work then, nor will it now.

Dina: [there's a slight roll of her eyes, because how many times has she heard that one] It's not ... I just have to make a choice and I don't know what it should be.

Stiles: Would talking your options out help? I'm always here to listen.

Dina: [she shakes her hand] I can't. Part of it was in confidence.

Stiles: [nods] To the Duke?

Dina: [and she gives him a confused look because what, Dad, how did you know that?]

Stiles: Your sister was worried when he returned to the banquet and you did not.

Dina: Oh. [she nods] Yes.

Stiles: I've heard your brother muttering about him after taking Hope to save me. Is there something else I should know?

Dina: [oh how to phrase this. is it worth saying that he asked to court her if in the end she will say no? what are feelings? does she actually want to say them out loud? why is this so tricky? She's quiet for a long time before sighing] I ... care for him. [sure. that's a way to say it]

Stiles: Oh. [he knew this day was going to come, but he still hadn't been ready] Does he not feel the same?

Dina: No. He does. There's just ... a complication, and that is the part that is in confidence.

Stiles: [nods] I won't ask you to break that that confidence. But sometimes things come down to a simple answer: do you prefer to see what life becomes with the man, or do you prefer the way life is now? Your mother took a great risk on loving me. And I screwed up more times than your mother and I actually speak of, and her life, as well as Ben, were in danger for many years just because she loved me. But she saw something in me that I didn't, and believed that the danger was worth the risk of spending the rest of her life with me.

Dina: I don't know. [that's the problem] The confidence very much changes things and I'm not sure if the person I cared for is the same person. It isn't a matter of a simple mistake.

Stiles: Well, Duke Walters does have a certain reputation at the court.

Dina: That isn't it.

Stiles: [sighs] Perhaps your mother would be better consul on this?

Dina: It's not your fault. It's just ... hard to explain around the part I can't speak about about.

Stiles: I see. [thinks] Maybe then seek consul from the Duchess. While she is his mother, she will know the same information he told you in confidence, so you can have a knowledgeable resource.

Dina: Maybe. [probably not. it seems awkward to as his mother whether or not she should be with him]

Stiles: Well, you are an intelligent young lady. I trust whatever decision you make in this matter.

Dina: Are you sure that's a wise choice? [trusting her teenage hormones?]

Stiles: [he put his hand on her knee] The fact that you even ask that question only confirms my faith in you.

Dina: [she shakes her head as she looks out at the river again] How did you know? With Mother?

Stiles: [smiles] The day she knocked Lord Whittemore down and tore him apart for his treatment of me. It wasn't the fact she had Peter purchase my freedom, or offering me a job at the manor, but the passion in her voice at my defense, barely knowing me, made me love her with my entire soul.

Dina: [nods, because that makes sense. but she doesn't know what that means for her. if it translates the same way simply because the day she kissed him also happened to be the day he rescued her father]

Stiles: Just let me know what you choose so I can start amassing a dowry for you. [it's a teasing smile as he nudges her arm]

Dina: [she snorts] I think you'll have plenty of time.

Stiles: [he slung his arm around her shoulder and pulled his daughter close, kissing the top of her head] Time goes too fast sometimes.

Dina: [curls into him without much fight, resting her head against his shoulder] Not too fast.

Stiles: Not always. [and he will nuzzle his daughter, a habit picked up from being surrounded by werewolves] I love you so much, my little Dina.

Dina: [closes her eyes] I love you too.