I smirked as my name was called, at least they said my married name this time. I stood and hugged Carrie, “Stay strong, don’t let them see fear.” I turned to valis and was surprised with a fatherly hug. “Don’t worry old man, I won’t burn the place down. Take care of Carrie.” I kissed his cheek and walked to the stand. I would sit as calm and poised as a Baroness should be. If they considered me a rogue, I would prove them wrong. I was strong, fuck those old bastards.
Order of the Talamasca
The Tribunal of Marius de Romanus, Pt. 17
My husband and I entered the room together right as Merida was walking down to testify. Carrie was on her feet wanting soooo much to go with Merida but she was not allowed. Va’lis could do absolutely nothing for Merida but hug her. He had to let her go do her thing. I simply just confidently kissed her cheek. I knew my daughter would give them hell the likes of which they had never seen.
I looked over to Carrie and she had moved to the front and damn near pressed her face to the glass wanting to see everything and for them all to see her. She was getting stronger by every minute. She wanted to be sure Merida could see her through the glass. I squeezed her shoulder before passing through and sitting down next to Falke. My husband stood by Carrie’s side for a while before sitting on the other side of me, next to Rich. Rich was bouncing his knee up and down. You could tell he was anxious and there was a sense of overprotectiveness to him. Va’lis put his hand on Rich’s knee to stop the motion. Rich gave him a haphazard smile. The two of them were getting along fabulously. At least one thing was going right for Va’lis.
The Tribunal of Marius de Romanus, Pt. 16
The main thing I did while in that private box was observe and listen- from the beginning of Maharet’s oath taking, I knew that she was in control. Or, at least, she felt that way. I didn’t really know much of anything down here… But I had to grin at her reply to the Order’s deputy and his whole spiel. I enjoyed how Maharet schooled the counselor Windsor, and I felt no pity for her when she got scared by Maharet standing up. I didn’t know what all happened, but I hope that bitch learned a bit about her place. Is that vicious of me? Should I even care? I mean, these people surely are not my own. Quite the opposite- they want to harm those I care for. I take a mental note to myself to always remember this, and vowed to always keep the Draconian family far away, or under my complete control. I did, however, cringe when Maharet admitted to burning Zeeke even though Merida was being released- I knew that bitch deserved all she got, and that Maharet was not the one being charged here, but one should never admit to anything in a court of law.
I saw Cherry leaving with Va’lis. It was hard to stay in my seat- she was the one who had invited me to come with the whole troupe, and I could tell something was wrong. I had no clue what- but it had to be important… Important enough to warrant my aunt- my favorite aunt!- leaving the place where it’ll be decided if Marius faces prison time- while it was being decided! And Marius is… Well, important! But because Cherry had invited me, I also knew that I had to be good. I wanted to impress her with how I handled this important event. I knew I needed to stay in my seat, and remain proper. I waited, then, interested in hearing whatever cross interviewing techniques and tactics the Counselor Talbot took, and wanting to hear Maharet’s replies.
The Tribunal of Marius de Romanus, Pt. 14
I saw Va’lis and Cherry leave the booth. I got up and took Cherry’s chair and sat beside my sister. I felt the emotions dully but I could still feel Va’lis’ emotions as I could Carrie’s. I listened to Maharet and smiled. I really do love that woman. I almost couldn’t wait to be the one on that stand. Rogue indeed, those old fuckers haven’t seen rogue yet in their lives. I knew Maharet could feel my amusement over the questioning they gave her. I looked beyond into the booth where Marius, Lestat and my husband sat. The look on Lestat’s face was the same amusement. I swear that man is something else.
I looked to Carrie and took her hand. In a soft whisper I asked, “Are you ready for this Carrie? You know I am here and I will always be.” She smiled weakly to me and nodded. I hoped they would call for me first. I would be strong for her. She needed to see that strength to get through it. I looked to see Khayman looking at me, I smiled to him. I simply adore the old man. I watched as they called Maharet off the stands and gripped carries hand. One of us were next…who would it be….the suspense was killing me.