It starts with a single step... (Jayne/Daphne)

[KARSON TATHRA ASTOR]

Clearing her throat,Karson slowly stepped out onto the balcony,making sure her emotions were in check. She hated her father's anger, it was terrifying and nothing to be messed with. Jayne seemed to be able to handle it well,but to Karson it was painful and it always made her feel weak. The Astor's were strong and a powerful family to be weak in her parents eyes. Well it was unforgivable,licking her lips tears started to well into her eyes trying to push the tears away. Gripping onto the railing her eyes flicked out into the forest,she could ear the soft noises of owls cooing and hooting. It was a beautiful night one that made promise of good things too come. Hearing shouting from her bedroom she couldn't help but stop the shudder from running down her spine. Why wasn't her brother here now,or her sister. Even though Daphne and her were at odds and had not fully worked though there issues. She had a strength and will that she always admired,even though what her family did to her. Karson wanted to try to made amends for it all,although knowing her sister. That was going to be easier said then done,then again a journey started with a single step as some say.

Rubbing her arms,she figured it would be safe to head back in,that hopefully her father's anger would be saited enough that she would feel comfortable back in her own home. She only hoped that Jayne and Daphne would be free from it all. Karson wasn't sure what set him off. Then again it seemed lately that it would happen on a whim. She knew that her sibling were darker then herself it just seemed to be that way,once she took a nurturing side. Karson couldn't explain it but she knew that being the somewhat kinder one was never a good thing. Hearing the shouting of her parents again she bit her lower lip. Why was it that she seemed to bring out the worst in their fighting sometimes. She tired to talk to her dad about the pressure he was putting on Jayne,it just it didn't seem fair that he needed all of the pressure on him. He was going to be a great heir so she never understood the needed stress. Their words became heated,and accusations were thrown around. Looking back on it now,she probably shouldn't have shouted out the words that she did. Tell her father that no matter how pressure he puts on him,it wouldn't make him unless of who he is and how great he is becoming. That he would never be a perfect cut out,and that was okay.

Her father didn't like that answer then the fighting started and the anger,the things that scared her to the bone. Not wanting to be in her room anymore,she slowly slipped it from it. Letting the door shut softly not to disturb them,maybe she could go to the family room. Her feet moving softly on the carpet,she glanced into her parents room,it seemed like the shouting had stopped. Quickly moving she glanced around her eyes still red and slightly puffy from the tears. Making her way to the room she slipped in leaving the doors open a crack so that if someone wanted to come in they could.

Moving to a couch she curled on it and hugged the pillow,resting her head on the soft fabric. What she wouldn't give to hear advice from Jayne or some crazy antics from her sister. But she was alone and it seemed like maybe she was meant to be this way.

[DAPHNE SASHA ASTOR]

Noise woke her. External noise. Shouts outside her head. Deep and resonating, slightly high and angry. Grooooan. Roll over. Still shouting. Sit up right outta bed, put feet on the floor. Daphne's hair stuck out at odd angles, the white locks in perfect disarray, and her tank and shorts settled as she walked out of her room. Who dared wake the sleeping devil? Who had the guts? Who wanted to watch those guts spill out onto the floor... Daphne did. Dear gods, she liked sleep, and she didn't get enough of it. Whoever had awakened her was going to pay for their sins. With a sin. Hee. Slim obsidian found its way to each of her palms before the stormcloud wandered through the house on a warpath. Crackle with power and anger. Follow the shouts. Parents. Of course. Stupid fools. Didn't even acknowledge her existence, so absorbed. Didn't acknowledge until there was a blade flying between the two of them, causing a ripple of shock and glares tinged with fear. One word.

'Stop.' She turned and left the room, intent on bed. But that wasn't to be... Maybe take the long way to find the zen, sleeping place again. Little pants grabbed her, catching on her ears. Rhymed with tears. The cause. Giggle. Wait... What? Karson. Such weakness. Curled and quiet and alone. Victim. A whisper of a thought. Talk? Ugh...

'Stop bawling like a child. Like prey.' Give her a reason? Make pain? Make problems... Make noise. Smile. Eh. No. Weak. Too easy. Boring. She moved to leave the room, but Karson responded. Daphne's lip curled with disdain. Twin. This was her twin. How was that possible? How could this being share her genetics? Strands of DNA wound them together through some means Daphne did not quite grasp- well, that wasn't true. What she didn't grasp was the complete dissimilarities between the two of them. They'd never had anything in common. Daphne did her the favor, every day, of not killing her. It was as close to mercy as the white-haired woman got. Daphne was brilliant enough to understand how genetic diversity worked, how those little Punnett squares lined up to yield different results. Doo-doo-dee-doo. This trait lined up with that one, and ta-da! Different people.

This was not okay. Karson didn't need to be crying over spilled milk. Milk... maybe that would put Daphne back to sleep. No. No, that never really worked. Not even when Jayne made it for her. Where was Jayne? Feelers felt him. He was in the house. He was... close? Karson talked. Something angry. At least there was some spine there. Where'd it hide when the yelling started? Hmmm? Daphne's eyes rolled and she shook her head. Maybe she'd go bug Jayne instead. But first.

'Where's that long curved spine hide when you're being a limp wienie?' Karson should tread more carefully. Daphne only had so much in the way of patience. And was the wrong target, anyways.

[JAYNE LANCEL ASTOR]

The commotion in his fathers' study ripped Jayne from his thoughts. He had been in his room, writing in his journal about recent events that had been happening in his life. Thoughts of a golden-eyed faerie woman graced his mind for an instant, and he continued writing, rejuvenated by getting his inward thoughts down on a page. Jayne wasn't the type to spill his guts aloud, although sometimes Karson eased them out of him, and he'd talk to her about some things, but nothing severe. Daphne would be a good sounding board sometimes, because he knew he wouldn't get any judgment there, but he wouldn't get much in the way of useful answers, either. Every now and then she surprised him, but mostly, Jayne knew that he had to remain the "rock" of the family, the glue that held everything together, and showing emotions and weaknesses wouldn't help him maintain that precious position.

His father's study was in a central enough location in the house that when something happened there, everyone could hear it. His father wasn't exactly a quiet or a calm man when he got angered; quite the opposite, actually. He had a tendency to turn monstrous and would not be silenced until he was well and finished. First, there had been two voices in the argument: his father's and... was that Karson? She wasn't the type to raise her voice, usually, but once her father got into a state where he was angry and completely wild, she actually stood up to him a little. The conversation wasn't clear, because they were both yelling over one another, but it stopped, and there was silence for a moment before a third voice joined: his mother's. Jayne stopped writing, and listened... he heard his name mentioned, and Karson's voice dropped out of the argument completely. She had liked excused herself, probably to go to her room and process... whatever it was that had happened. Jayne went back to writing for a moment, even though he was distracted by his parents' squabbling, and then stiffened when he heard a loud, crisp 'thwack.' Not like someone had been hit, but like... Daphne was throwing knives at the wall. But just one knife. He listened carefully and heard a single word over the commotion: "Stop." Daphne's voice.

All was quiet then, and he continued his writing, finishing the page he was on and then closed his journal. Jayne walked over to his stereo and was about to turn on some music, soothing jazz to quell his insecurities about what his family was getting at-odds with one another over this time, because arguments of this level weren't unusual. Then he felt a stormy presence: tension, between Daphne and Karson. Jayne hung his head, and knew that he should probably go do his job as the eldest, make sure no blood was spilled, if Daphne got in a particular mood and Karson decided to do something to annoy her. The twins could certainly get under one another's skin, but they tended to behave in his presence. Jayne walked out into the hallway and headed toward Karson's room, where he heard sounds like she was crying, and then sharp words directed at Daphne and he opened the door.

His stance was strong, and his brow was furrowed. He looked from one sister to the other and spoke evenly, but with a commanding presence that made them know that he was disturbed and slightly annoyed by the whole of the events that evening. "So, who wants to tell me the reason for all of this nonsense?"

Karson's face was puffy, and Daphne looked irritated, but not murderous. But Jayne just knew that she wouldn't be the one to crack first.

"Karson, what's going on here? What happened with father? And now this?" Jayne crossed his arms and took a step into his sister's bedroom, and closed the door behind him, waiting for his response and his answers so he could finally make sense of things.

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[KARSON TATHRA ASTOR]

Slowly sighing all Karson want to do was just slink away,maybe take a walk in the forest. Since it seemed like being at home at the moment was anything but pleasant.Although she would need to work the energy to get up and get out of the room. All of the emotions,seemed to be running wild in the home,it wasn't what she wanted. So she was getting ready to leave,when an all familiar voice entered her room. The tension already strong,as the voice spoke,sitting up,her posture full of tension and now also a hint of anger now. " Not all of us think every is weak when they show emotions Daphne,and maybe you should think of knocking. I meant it has been around since the dawn of time." Was she being bitchy and petty probably,but Daphne had a way of doing that to her. She loved her always would she was her twin. But sometimes there was a time and place to handle it,but this was not one of those times. Karson wasn't prey and she hated that her sister called her that. Why was it that her family always thoughts she was so different,she wasn't as cold as her other siblings but that didn't mean she was weak minded either. Although it seemed like she got her wish she was no longer alone.

It was funny though,as much as they were different,they were still twins and Karson loved that. She would never admit it out loud but she was truly happy that she had someone so close to her. Though Karson wished they weren't siblings now. Loving hating them,they were family but sometimes god did they annoy you. Perking a brow she saw that Daphne was still in her room so it seemed like their conversation was going to go on a lot longer.. " Did you have anything else to do or was I annoying you that much... " Not liking the thought, that she might have disturbed her sister with all of her emotions and tension. It couldn't be fixed though,it just was.

About to ask her to leave,her eyes flicked to her door frame,it seemed like her sister wasn't the only one who was disturbed from the fighting. Jayne always made her feel so small when he came into the picture with his presence like this. It reminded her of her dad,which scared her yet happy at the same time,he was strong like her dad,but had a calmness and strength that her dad seemed to have forgotten. Looking down she licked her lips and looked between the two. Hating that she was now put on the spot she slipped from her bed and turned on some soft music,hoping that it calmed her already frayed nerves.

" God damn it Daphne,stop calling me weak I don't need to hear it from you,im sorry im not a knife crazed martial art fighter like you both alright. So stop trying to poke at old wounds. " Her chest heaving slightly from her outburst eyes widening,never having really reacted like that before. Well here was her backbone. Not the most ideal time to show it but it seemed to be no going back now. " I'm sorry I shouldn't have snapped at you like that sister. I just it was a rough day as you heard." Rubbing her neck she looked to Jayne guilt in her features from the outburst and now from the fight. " The fight was about you Jayne. I was so tired of him trying to put so much pressure on you to be exactly like him,it's not fair to you. You can be your person and he shouldn't try to force you into being exactly like him. Your great just being you. I just he didn't like that answer so tempers arouse. I didn't mean to disturbed you both. I just god damn it he makes he so angry sometimes it's not fair to you." Even though she was the nurturing one,that didn't mean she wouldn't defend her family with all she had.

[DAPHNE SASHA ASTOR]

The displays of emotion didn't bother her in the slightest, it was Karson's innate vein of pathetic-ness. She could not stomach such ridiculousness. Daphne ate emotion, so she had an appreciation for it. But weakness was not an emotion. It was a state of being. So Karson's words rang completely hollow. Daphne also couldn't stomach lies...

'Not all of us think every is weak when they show emotions Daphne,and maybe you should think of knocking. I meant it has been around since the dawn of time.' Cackling erupted, fierce and amused. Oh twin... At this point in Daphne's existence, the urge to kill her sister ran strong, and it'd become some sort of personal challenge to see how long she could go without actually doing it. Usually, the insane faerie gave herself whatever she wanted, refusing to stymie her nature, but the one person who could somewhat understand her- Jayne- had turned leaving her sister alone into a personal exercise in willpower. The longer she went without destroying Karson, the greater her bragging rights. And really, Daphne enjoyed a challenge. But this one? This was a torment the white-haired faerie was slowly losing tolerance for withstanding. She gripped the slight blade in her hand and let the edge slice into the palm of her hand to refocus herself. Don't kill the twin. But sure as hell better be cruel to her, if nothing else.

'Ha! You show a display of weakness Karson, not emotion. And don't pretend that you didn't want somebody to come distract you from the agonized amblings of your own miserable mind. It's why you left the door open, effectively eliminating the need for a knock. Which, I'm quite certain, hasn't been in use from the beginning of time, you pathetic little bird. What the hell would cavemen do with a knock? Hmmm? Pray tell.' The words were scathing, and felt oh-so-good leaving her mouth like invisible barbs to strike her sister in her softer spots. She seemed to have rendered the other woman temporarily speechless. Good. Oh, she was out of practice with the verbal abuse. Felt good to do it again, even though this wasn't the aspect that preferred it. This aspect far preferred the forward, no-nonsense murder to the twisted wicked wanderings of destroying someone's mind and life. Didn't mean that it wasn't in her bag of tricks too. Karson chose to attempt disengagement, instead of giving Daphne more inane fodder to play with. Her lip curled, and she made moves to go away, but then there was Jayne, agitated like a thunder cloud. Didn't dissuade the elder twin from plaguing her sister though; she was a storm in her own right, and couldn't resist being heartless when she was about two seconds away from being brutal instead. Her twin actually attempted some ferocity then... It was amusing, if nothing else. It made Daphne giggle and arch an eyebrow.

'Have you ever known me to try something without succeeding? Honestly Karson... You're too easy. The knife-wielding and martial arts have nothing to do with it, and you know it.' The last came out as a savage whisper, sending her raven-haired sister into a tizzy, which is when Jayne decided some intervention was in order. His question received nothing but a cool look from Daphne, and a guilty spilling of her guts from Karson. Despite everything, the silly little woman apologized to Daphne for snapping. Ugh. Just made the older woman want to choke her out. And since when did Jayne need his battles fought by Karson, of all people? The white-haired beauty just snorted derisively, and moved into a darker corner of the room, content to watch for a moment.

[JAYNE LANCEL ASTOR]

The tension was so high and thick in the room that one could have cut it with one of Daphne's well-forged, razor sharp blades. On one hand, he had Daphne getting angry, and almost violent with her younger twin, and on the other Karson, who was desperately trying to plead her case and defend herself simultaneously. in short, it was a mess. But, having lived with his family and their differences for so long, Jayne was used to dealing with clean-up of this particular nature.

He knew that he'd have to tread carefully with Daphne; he knew she was armed, as per usual, and his keen eyes caught the knife in her hand, and even saw it cut into her palm. She was rattled, mostly because Karson was playing the martyr, of sorts. She was showing weakness, something that their family did not abide, Daphne least of all. But he... he understood why Karson was more sensitive. She was a nurturer, and she cared for her family, even when they did not need her to step in and cause further ire to rain down on her. "Daphne, enough for now. Karson is blood to you just as I am." Jayne said, gently, but with power that would hopefully get Daphne to retract her claws, even for the slightest of moments, and put her in the right mindset to remember their little deal, which Karson would never know of. It was for her own good.

Jayne eased into his trained diplomacy, and moved closer to Karson, noting that Daphne was starting to back away after her final barbs were thrown. "Karson... little one... we are all different. Each of us." Jayne said softly, but still with a hint of sharpness, because he was irritated. That much couldn't be tucked away completely. "Though you and Daphne shared our mother's womb, though I was first born in the line, we have our strengths and our... weaknesses." The last part nearly made him flinch; neither he or Daphne liked to admit this about themselves, and didn't broadcast what their weaknesses were, but they did exist. "We must learn to embrace these in one another, and respect our place. In the family."

Jayne then moved back toward the middle, and looked toward Daphne with gentle eyes, letting her know that he wasn't cross with her. Karson needed comfort, and even though he wasn't the comforting sort, she had been attacked, and didn't need his venom, either. But, her remarks about what had started the argument didn't sit well with him, and as the Astor prince, he couldn't just let that lie. He crossed his arms and stood tall, and a chill came through the room as he spoke his next words. "I care for you very much, but please know this: I do not need anyone to fight my battles with Father. I am not weak. I am to rule this family when he steps down from his place, and if anyone tries to undermine my rightful position, there will be hell to pay."

Jayne could see that Karson was unsettled, and calmed himself once again. "I love you dearly... both of you. I would lay down my life for you. Do not give me reason to look upon you in anger. I appreciate your concerns, and they are noted, but do not speak to Father on my behalf again. You'll only make him angry. And me," Jayne finished. He hoped that this settled the argument, but the looks that Karson gave to Daphne, and vice-versa, along with whatever was ticking along in the first twin's head made him cautious, and he knew that he needed to stay in the room, just in case.

[/justify]

[KARSON TATHRA ASTOR]

All Karson could do was just listen to her twin and hold in her words,she knew tat this point from Daphne's tone and action,that talking or speaking anymore to her about it would only cause issues. Well this had become a cluster fuck of a day,as much as she wanted her day to be better,it seemed like it was just rolling down hill. Well that was a bitch of life sometimes,it was good one second then hell the next. No wonder the fae could feed off emotions like candy,there was so much to feel and respond to,it made sense that if they had their own problems,humans and alike would as well. So feeding off of them was intoxicating and oh so filling. Yes not of that mattered at the moment,she was having family time and it wasn't going the most pleasant. But when the twins got together she noticed that it rarely did. So many things about them did not blend well,if anything everything clashed. And as she noticed it usually ended in the way it was going now. Which Karson could happily tell was not going good at all,just her luck it seemed like the day was not going to go in her favor at all.

Feeling her fingers clenching at the barb his sister was giving her,yes even though Karson was not the angry one or fighting. Everyone did have their breaking point and it seemed like her own was rising quickly. Closing her eyes she let out a little breathe,she knew that Daphne would probably make another barb of hurt. But,this was the only thing keeping her calm at the moment. Why could they never get along,it was like cat and dogs and just always picking at each other. Nothing about their conversations were ever nice. It was just ugly and spiteful. It reminded her somewhat of her mother,although she would never say that out loud. Their mother did have a way of being very agile and quick with her words. Making sure they hurt no matter how little was spoken. Funny how that worked out,it seemed like the siblings all got something from their parents,so then where did Karson fall in,nothing about herself seemed to match either. True before they sent Daphne away,she was darker colder everything an Astor was a should be. But,not it seemed like that side of her was more quite and subdued. It seemed like it needed to come out more though,at least if she still wanted a place in the family.

" No Daphne you always were good at winning. Nothing or no one ever lost to you." Her words somewhat cold and callous,but she was fighting a losing battle she needed something to give. Hearing Jayne speak again her eyes flicked to his. A soft smile on her face as he tired to offer comfort and support,this was why she loved Jayne no matter how tense it was he always seemed to be able to find a medium and make things calmer between the siblings.

But as quick as the smiled appeared from his kindness it faded just as quickly,when he was done speaking. Of course her caring would make the others think she was seeing him as weakness. Nothing about what she did to try too help was good unless it was offering advice. Rolling her shoulder she rubbed her head. " No your right Jayne you don't need anyone to fight your battles. You'll make a great head of the family cause at the moment your sounding just like him." Standing up she pushed past Jayne and her sister,anger pulsing though her veins,her calm and caring side slowly breaking to her more darker half. She knew she was probably going to be stopped and a fight would now break out but what was,said was said. She would not be yelled at for loving her brother or being herself. Looking at them she paused. " Why you both think showing care for others is weakness I will never know,sometimes it good to have people fighting in your corner because one day you will look and and realize that you will have no one there to help you. And at the moment you will truly wish you did."

Eyes slowly slipping to her fae from a light purple this was not how she wanted things to go." I love you both as well. Jayne I did not mean to anger you or make it seem like I was trying to over throw or make you seem weak in front of father. I just truly wanted to help,I am sorry for over stepping. "

[DAPHNE SASHA ASTOR]

Everything since waking up to shouts had been a pain in the ass. But, she did enjoy tormenting her sister... Some part of her wished that her twin had more spine, more fire. Perhaps that was Karson's tactic though, to just cave and cave until Daphne got bored. Sometimes, it actually worked. Others, it just made the faerie woman want to eliminate the irritant to her life. She had a running deal with her brother though, and so far, that had kept her from doing such a thing. Even when the tone he took with her raised her hackles... He was lucky she loved him, really. It spared him a wildcat launching itself at him. He'd meant it as a light reminder, but such a tone with his crazy sibling was unwise. She growled at him, before sequestering herself from the two of them. Apparently, it was Karson's turn to be addressed, but unlike with Daphne, he coddled her. It made Daphne roll her eyes with false humor. 'Respect their place,' indeed. Daphne didn't have one. She had a kinship with Jayne, and a responsibility from her parents, and some kind of twisted relationship with her twin. What place was that? Unlike Neely, who distanced herself from them, most of them distanced themselves from Daphne. They knew what she was, and they were scared. Truth be told, she preferred it that way. At least then, they weren't a thorn in her side.

Her brother attempted some gentle eye contact, attempted to convey a silent message to her. He wasn't really upset with her actions, but he didn't want to show the favor he really held for her. Why? What was wrong with such a preference? He was too invested in what they all thought of him, as far as she was concerned. But she understood it, really. She wanted to pretend that she was upset by it, but she understood him too well, after this many years, to do such a thing. He was too rule them, and meek puppies were easier to rule than fierce wolves. And right now, Karson was a meek puppy, bowing to Daphne's words like a daisy to a thunderstorm. Bowing to Jayne's gentle reprimand as well. And then, to top it all off, she tried to make a parting argument as she tried to leave the room. She should know, after dealing with them for so long, that running was never a good idea. Running made the true wolves give chase.

Daphne cackled at her sister, like a mad thing. 'Oh Karson, Karson, my sweet twin. It is a weakness. And if, lords and ladies forbid, we ever got into such a ridiculous situation as to need another backup, what in the world makes you think that it should be you?' Her eyebrow arched, as she turned into the light to look at the running puppy. 'Such a weak little fighter would hardly be any help at all. So yes, take the easy way out, little bird, and run from conflict once again. Prove you're as weak as you act.' It took a supreme amount of willpower, and a look from Jayne, to keep the white-haired fae from leaping the short space between them to prove her own point, instead of allowing Karson to do such a thing for herself. Karson's pain would be such a delicate compliment to her sister's words. But Daphne was restrained. Poised, even, and diplomatic. She fought with her words, which this aspect wasn't as adept at, but still. At least she didn't kill her. Karson gave up again, trying to appease. And Daphne finally got bored and spun away with a giggle, leaving Jayne to deal with the whiny twin. She flipped over the little sofa and danced around, for no apparent reason. Her sister was no longer worth her time. And her brother? Well, he could figure out his own thing, and deal with her his own way.

[JAYNE LANCEL ASTOR]

Jayne should have figured that Karson would try to leave instead of facing the situation that she, in essence, started head-on. He would have, Daphne would have, and if provoked enough, Neely possibly would have. But Karson's softness wasn't always an irritant, but sometimes, it wore on him. Karson did apologize for over-stepping, and Jayne nodded his head in acceptance. "I'm trying not to be angry, little one. I just have to look strong for father, because this family isn't easy to care for. Not with all the edges and conflicts and dissimilarities." The eldest faerie lowered his head, then looked back up at Karson, feeling that his eyes were electric blue instead of his chosen, glamoured color of a rich, dark brown. That was his natural color, and though most of the time, he could control when it surfaced, he found that in situations of him feeling any sort of deep emotion, he couldn't always stop at least a flicker back to his natural color, exposing what he was underneath the handsome glamour.

"I do realize that it wasn't your intention, and for that, I will forgive you." Jayne said, hoping that his calm would diffuse the situation, and hopefully keep Karson from making rash decisions such as this one in the future. When Karson started to leave, and Daphne taunted her, Jayne went to the door and put a strong hand on her shoulder. "As Astors, we're not taught to run. So, when you do, you prove her right." Jayne said in a low voice, fully intent on Daphne not having heard him. It wasn't that he was trying to keep a secret from his favored sibling, but rather that he was trying not to arouse further conflicts between the two of them in the future. They were inevitable, of course, Daphne still harbored very bad blood toward Karson for helping her be committed, and Jayne held the same feelings, but he showed a little more mercy. Family was the most important thing to him, and he found he could overlook a lot of shortcomings and bad decisions, even if he still could not completely forgive. Forgiveness was still a long time coming. One day, he had hopes that he could completely forgive, but as long as Daphne was still haunted by what had happened, and as long as she gave him little glimpses (they were very rare, and only when she was in a certain state of mind) into what had happened to her at the facility, he knew that forgiveness would likely never be complete. Jayne wasn't the type to hold a grudge, not toward family, because usually when someone wronged him or someone he loved, his course of action was to directly eliminate the problem. And he couldn't very well eliminate Karson and his father... that was why he'd made the bet with Daphne.

"Now then," Jayne said in his normal tone, so Daphne would hear this part instead. "What problems are solved by running?" Jayne looked over his shoulder at Daphne who, as usual, was making her own fun and tried not to smile. Amused Jayne was not appropriate in this situation. Jayne took a few steps back into the room, hoping that Karson would follow and looked to Daphne. "And while we're on the subject of weakness, might I say that weakness comes in a number of forms. Some say pain is weakness leaving the body, others say that weakness is the showing of emotion. I have a different definition of weakness: not standing up and protecting what is yours, and not being convicted in your beliefs, whatever they may be."

Jayne crossed his arms and sat on the small sofa that was in Karson's room, next to Daphne. "Come now, Karson; let's hear what you believe in. Clearly there are some opinions rolling around in your head; they took you straight to father's office." It was enough of a challenge to amuse Daphne, and hopefully bait enough to get Karson from running away. Jayne had hopes that it would lead them all into a civilized conversation, but with tensions so high, and so many conflicting views, one could never be certain. Also, part of him was curious: he knew what Daphne believed in, and his own beliefs, and how those beliefs conflicted with his father's. He wondered if that was why he so wanted change in the family and the Court; because he wasn't weak, and because his convictions led him like a battle cry. Jayne settled, and waited for Karson to speak.

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[KARSON TATHRA ASTOR]

It took all of Karson's energy not to retort to Daphne's barb,it was so hard to not respond and react. Daphne was on the verge to rip her apart,Karson could feel the tension in the room. They never did get along,they were but too different it was difficult,since they didn't . Hearing Jayne speak about not running,she slowly let out a shaky breathe and turned back to face them. Her eyes were now of her true form,a vibrant purple,nothing like her other siblings,another reason she was so different,her form was like neither of theirs. While she kept her eyes like Jayne's glamor,she was different altogether and it seemed like talking like this just proved it all the more. Why could she never be as cold as the others,why did she always look weak to them or stupid. Now she was being stopped by her brother,to never run away to not look even weaker in front of her sister. Astor's were taught not to run,to face all of your battles head on and never lose or run away. Whispering softly so only Jayne could ear she looked at him with her dark eyes her voice full of a darker emotion she never liked to show,it was an ugly side of her that caused her too know that she was truly an Astor. " You sound like im running out of fear Jayne,you know I don't like when I go this dark... It is a side I have worked on not showing.. but your right I will not run or prove her right."

Tilting her head all she could do was give her sister a sickening sweet smile,this was never how she wanted things to go this day. Yes she was the more nurturing and caring sister,never really liking conflicts or fights. That didn't mean she did not know how to though,or that she didn't have a fighting spirit like her other siblings. No she had that in spades,but she tended to keep those to herself and not let it show as much as the others. She wanted to try to be there for her siblings in ways that was not usually allowed in Astor form. To be kind,caring showing weakness and allowing yourself to be swayed by it. No that was not Astor at all,she was somewhat like her mother in that sense. While over time their mother had grown cold and ruthless like the rest. She was more like Karson then others would admit,not that she would ever said her family was ruthless. They just were very tight lipped with emotions,so she try to follow though and keep herself calm and not ruled by emotions like she was being that way now.

She gave her brother's arm a squeeze,happy that he had accepted her apology and not hold anger still with the disruption she caused with their father. He was the more understanding sibling and Karson always loved that about him.that even though she did anger him to no ends sometimes. He was still always there for her and wanting her though, anything and offer her advice while she would do the same for him. Karson knew that what she did to her sister still caused strain and tension with her family,but they truly did what they thought was right. And now did only Karson slowly think she figured out what she did was truly wrong. So in trying to ease the guilt she wanted to become kind and help whenever she could. It was hard and slow process and seemed to be biting her in the ass whenever she tired to fix it but she had hope it would. Although now was not time to dwell on past things,it would never be the way it was and Karson had to slowly start to accept that.

A small smirk graced her own features,leave it to her brother,the voice of logic,the one who would always seem to calm them and have them take a moment and actually think. Eyes watching the two ,she felt her eyes still heated with anger,the anger was all but apparent in her stance and in her fae colored eyes. Listening to Jayne speak she moved to a bookcase and leaned against it. And nodded listening to him talking about his weakness and beliefs. Now it was her turn she was on the spot and all she could do was close her eyes then open them .Taking a breathe she licked her lips before starting " What brought me to father's office besides stepping on toes about you which I am truly sorry for again brother. I did not mean to hurt you. I just I'm not like either of you,I am growing to accept it,I try to be strong and crumble,what was it you said Daphne becoming prey yes. I can't be like either of you with. And,I know it annoys you both at times I see it,it was part of it now. I don't know how to fit in anymore Jayne I don't know how to be myself and the Astor I need to be...And I am fearing what will happen if I don't pick the right side of the line." Taking a breathe she looked between the two waiting to see what they would say.

[DAPHNE SASHA ASTOR]

Swirling, whirling, twirling, like pinwheels in the sky. Like windmills gathering the breeze. Flipping and skipping and jumping on the furniture scattered about the room like gently-packed chunks of tuna. Warm from the heaters, chill from the window. Words bouncing around the room like ping-pong balls. Pretty ping-pong balls, floating and light, but the words were heavy. Delivered with such silly emotion and weakness. Pain? Daphne could use the pain, could make the pain. Pain was useful. Maybe with enough pain, the sister would finally snap into some strength. Ha. Unlikely. Karson even smiled at her. Ugh. With a saccharine grin. Such passiveness made Daphne want to poke her eyes out. Pop! goes the weasel. Round and round the mulberry bush, the monkey chased the weasel, the monkey stopped to pull up his socks, and Pop! goes the weasel. Been this way since childhood, really. One runs, one chases, one pauses, the other pounces.

Daphne was a pouncer. A predator by nature. Maybe that's why Karson was her twin, the innate polar opposite to balance her out. The universe's way of trying to even the scales, like the blind lady of justice. Wearing the cloth of impartiality. Somewhere in there, Daphne knew, lurked someone much more like her. A real twin, her reflection, not her negative. Like a picture, snap! inverted and flipped upside down. No, no, no! Heeheehee. There was a better Karson in there. A freer one who didn't want to be smothered by the weak one. Poke it with a stick, and see what happens, go ahead. Will it hiss and finally bite, or will it die a sad sad death? A pretty death at the hands of an ivory faerie? Flicker. No, no killing the poked one. Watch her squeeze on Jayney. Flicker. Behave Daphne. Don't disappoint. HA! Always disappoint. Point to the ceiling, stand on your head. Do a little dance, something to keep from killing her dead. A shimmer of happy floated by her from Karson, and that was terrible. A happy Karson was a sedate one; a passive one. One that did nothing but cry like a child, a little abandoned bird. A pathetic little blackbird, not a fierce clever raven. Daphne's lip curled with disgust. Chatter then, why don't you? Chatter about nothing. Talk weakness, when you personify it. Ignore Daphne, because it's the only thing to spare you from more prodding and pain. Because the ivory predator has much sharper sticks...

Say rational things now Daphne, don't ramble. Don't give. Be smart and strong and fierce. Be the better predator. Be a force of nature. Like wind and rain and lightning and thunder. Earthquakes rumble and hurricanes blow.

'Lines, lines in the sand. It's not about lines, it's about choices. Lines are two-dimensional, and choices go 4D the second you make them. Height, width, depth, time. Echoes in everything. No right sides, no wrong ones. Too limited to think that way- too shallow, too close. Shades of grey exist to confuse you, but also to save you.' That made no sense... But they'd get it, she knew. Knew like she knew that her body could make the intricate dance patterns they were accomplishing right now. Knew like she knew like knew... New. New stars in the sky? Maybe. New patterns forming, new choices unfolding. Blankets and sheets, covers and ripples. Choices would take them somewhere. Unknown. Daphne didn't know that. Like she didn't know where Karson's strength was hiding. Or why Jayne loved her best. Or why Neely's potential was yet to be tapped.

[JAYNE LANCEL ASTOR]

Jayne had to play the listener: the mediator. And, while he was good at it, he was also in a situation where, since he did not fully understand one side, he tended to favor another. Bias was one of those nasty, tricky things that got in the way when it was wanted the least, got under people's skin and made them show their true nature. Which was what his sister Karson spoke of: her true nature, the Astor blood that ran hot through her veins, and that she was afraid of it. The emotion that was strong and conflicted in Karson's voice when she spoke gave that much away, even though her words did the same. This, Jayne could understand. Their rich lineage was a powerful one, and even though they all did have their differences, some things would not be changed, and genetics allowed certain traits to reign strong in their bodies. Persistence, intelligence, inner strength, and darkness all battled within them, no matter what they did. He and Daphne embraced their darkness, but Karson? She was more like their mother.

Jayne's mother, Lee Ann, had tried for years to keep the Astor darkness from creeping in. She wasn't originally an Astor, after all, and she had a kindness and gentility that none of the rest of them had, unless they were more on the rebellious side. But, being married to his father was something that Jayne could only imagine was like shadow boxing a lion every day, and yet somehow, his mother had prevailed. With his moods, his darkness, his brutality and little concern for others. But, the years of marriage had taken its toll, and now, that light that had once shone brightly from within his mother was dim and almost impossible to see. The Astor she had married smothered what was innately hers, proving its strength in another way. Karson was a mixture of both his parents, but she had tried to hang onto her light, and not let it be extinguished like their mother's had been. But, it was a difficult battle, and Karson wasn't much of a warrior.

When she explained her thoughts on the whole situation, Jayne listened, but caught sight of Daphne mentally dozing off in the corner. Sure, she still looked alert and like she was taking part in the conversation, but Jayne knew her better than that. He'd all but seen the switch, which meant that she might not be as violent with Karson. All of Daphne's "personalities" were violent, sure, but some were more thought-based than action-based, and this one, from what he could already see, was cerebral, which meant they had something of a buffer to work with. Karson was explaining her concerns, most of which Jayne already put his finger on: she didn't know how to be like them. She didn't know how to be an Astor.

"We're all different, Karson," Jayne said, simply. He was feeling a bit like a broken record, but he had to get his point across succinctly, so he wouldn't be misunderstood. "And I'll forgive you for this mishap with father." Jayne paced across the room a little, and finally heard his sister speak. She was talking about choices: lines in the sand, choosing sides, as Karson was. But something in Daphne's odd speech triggered Jayne. War was coming. Even if he didn't always agree with Karson, he needed her on his side.

"I know you're aware that soon, father will step down and I'll be in charge of the family." It was sooner than any of them, save for Daphne knew, but soon nonetheless. "We'll need strength for when lines in the sand are drawn, between sides... light and dark. Some will hunt us, and they'll try to change everything we've built our empire on. We cannot allow these human-lovers to confine our ability to hunt, to feed, and to rule." Daphne would be a good asset in the war, but Karson? Jayne would never put her on a battlefield; it was too crude and bloody a place for his soft-hearted sibling. But he couldn't have her neutral, or against them. "I know you're struggling, Karson, but I need to know that you're with me. With us. When the time comes, you must be prepared to help in whatever way you can. Any... others... that you know, they'll be enemies."

He wasn't stupid; he knew Karson was the most social of all of them, and figured that she had to have friends of all races, alliances, etc. This would not stand in times of war. "You're an Astor. Find what makes you one of us, and hold onto it. We'll need you. I'll need you." It was manipulative, his little speech, but he knew that Karson was fond of him, and this would be a way to ensure her loyalty. If he stood in charge over their father, they'd all fall in line. And then they'd be successful. Jayne looked at Daphne, and smiled. "Now, can't we all just act like family instead of like we're at war?"

[/justify]

[KARSON TATHRA ASTOR]

Karson listened to Daphne,she always hated how even though Daphne was crazy and slightly odd about how she said things. No matter what she hit a spot in her that made her think about her actions. Daphne knew exactly what Karson was talking about,she also know how to make her seem confused yet know what she was saying. When Daphne gave advice like this,she couldn't help but wonder what would have happened if they never took her to that place. That they locked her up and threw away the key,never looking back. Karson at the time truly believed it was the right thing. Yet now,seeing how her sister was,it was another fine line that she seemed to have cornered herself in and she was hating it. It seemed to be the right thing to do,yet not it was all fucked up and convoluted. Her twin was right as much as she would never admit it out loud. Lines didn't stay just your own as soon as you drew or crossed them,they did effect everyone who was around. No matter how much you wanted people to get hurt or involved in it. Karson did not want anyone to get hurt by her actions. But deep down she knew that her soft side,it was affecting how her family saw her and that would need be accepted. No that was not high of an Astor and Karson hated that.

So all she could do was nod and take in Daphne's words and just thinking on it,it was amazing that sometimes the most crazy sibling could have the most insight. Her thoughts then drifted to Neely,how would they handle their younger sister,she had a big axe to grind as well. Although she seemed to tolerate Karson more then the others,her apthatic nature and hatred towards them would not be good with the upcoming events,maybe she would need to talk to Neely. How would Jayne feel about that though,would it be considered stepping on his toes,not respecting his power,she had already almost done that one she wasn't going to do that again. She hated that she had upset him already and would need to fix that. A soft smile graced her lips as Jayne accepted her apology,it felt like weight was lifted which made her happy. She never could stand to have her brother or any family angry at her.

Although now the conversation seemed to move to a more serious tone,eye brow perking as she listened to her brother speak. Yes she knew her brother was in line next but that wasn't due to happen soon. She knew her father would not give up his title until he had no breathe left in his body. So why was the sudden conversation happening now. Holding back a wince about human lovers and light siders,she knew that her choice in company was anything but ideal but neither of them had to know that. She loved her friends and would defend them when it came down too it, Neither of them had to know where her friends sided it was not their business and she would make sure no harm came to them. Nodding her head,eyes flicking Jayne taking everything and all of him in. Not seeing her brother at the moment but the soon to be leader of their family of the Astor's it was time now for Karson to step into the role she knew she would eventually need to fill it was just a step she didn't plan on taking so soon.

" Jayne,brother you know you never have to ask where my allegiance lies,no matter who I know or how I feel. My life my blood is yours to stand beside you and not let our family fall. We are Astor's we are not weak and will not show weakness to those who oppose us. I will stand by you in whatever you need me to do." Letting out a slow breathe after that statement,her skin humming slightly,not having been that forceful or where her blood lies in a long time. " I think I should talk to Neely about all of this Jayne,while you can be the logical one it seems she still holds a lot of anger towards you both and I think this could use a more gentle approach. Please let me handle Neely and get her own our side." Eyes flicking between the two of them,she was being more daring then she had been in awhile,but if Jayne truly wanted his family on his side she needed to be the own to talk to Neely or more anger would just arise and that was not needed now. " Oh come now Jayne you know you love breaking up are sibling feud's it keeps you young and alert. But if you must settle what shall we discuss now then,anything interesting going on in either of your lives."

[DAPHNE SASHA ASTOR]

Forgive forget forgive forget forgive, don't forget. Never forget. Never ever. Some things, Daphne couldn't forget. Jayne was more lenient though, sweet in a way that she wasn't. Thoughtful. Daphne did thought differently. Hee. Daphne did everything differently. She lived different, loved different, smelled different, talked different, attacked different. She might've attacked Karson, if the birdie had thought to pick her battles for her. Jayne just glared and lectured. Sourpuss face. Why did they call it that, anyway? Sour. Puss. He didn't really look like he's sucked a lemon... And he didn't look like a cat. More like the craggles of an old, angry tree. Bark face. Haaa. Daphne giggled out loud at her own ideas. Maybe she'd tell Jayne later. Later, when he was done talking about wars and thrones and crowns and rules. Daphne detested rules. The rules were about to change though. Malcolm was about to 'step-down' from his rules. Through force. But not force enough, as far as the ivory fae was concerned.

There'd be no force. Therein laid the- laid? Lied. Laid. Lied. Leid! Perhaps she'd place a lei on their daddy's grave. After she poisoned him. Poison. Where was the honor in that? Where was the excitement or joy? The pain or the passion? Nothing. None. Nada. Flit around, make a drop, run away. Away away. Like the birdie, Karson. Weak and sad and lame. What the hell was the point of poison? It was cowardly. But don't get caught Daphne. Don't make fussies. Be quiet and stealthy, like a mouse. Mousy and soft. The ivory fae was neither of those things. She was many things, lots of things, things nobody else would ever be, and especially not all the things she was in one, but mousy and soft were not in that list. They were in Karson's list? Yes they were. Karson, who Jayne still wanted to stand with them, come wartime. Wartime could be fun, funny, funniest. Blood aplenty, maybe? Unlikely. Wars weren't fought that way very much anymore. So Daphne made her own bloody fun. Playing in puddles like children, finger painting like she was in kindergarten. Like kids. Goats? Only played with goat blood once. Wasn't as fun. Different consistency. Different reaction.

'We'll need you?' Her yellow-green eyes relocated the two siblings on those words. Daphne wouldn't need you. Daphne didn't need anybody. Daphne needed very little. Little bits, little things, here and there. But at least Jayne was getting what he claimed to need. Karson would stick with them, whatever happened. Wheee. Cue eye roll. Heads will roll, roll off with their heads! But Daphne was no queen, to order such things. Lucky for her, she didn't need such a title to be such a villain. She was not constrained by the rules. Rules which bound them down to mundanity. Bound them down like ropes or chains. Daphne had been chained, strapped down. Beaten, bruised, injected, magicked, among other things. Her... And her other sister. Neely. Karson brought up Neely. Neely the pathetic. Neely the invisible. Neely the hiding. Sad, like a kicked puppy, shoved to the side and lacking attention. She wanted something she wouldn't make herself available to get. Neely didn't get Daphne's attention. Daphne liked- was attracted to- the exceptional. Neely made herself plain enough to be camouflaged. Blended like a chameleon. Odd little lizard. Quiet and hidden in the background. Wallflower. Neely had earned none of her attention. And she had nobody to blame but Neely. So let Karson talk to her. Go ahead. She wouldn't make much progress either.

'Give the girl the Neely. Let her have the chameleon. It doesn't make a difference. Things will fall where they may, Neely or no. She's important, but she won't step up either. So give the girl a Neely, she'll give you nothing back.' Daphne swished about the room, too restless to stay still for long. Sleep would take a good long while... During which, apparently, Karson wanted to talk about their lives. 'Interesting is relative... Like a sibling or a cousin or a father. Fathers that go-' her mouth paused for a moment, as her brain caught up. Don't tell her that. 'Don't get caught Daphne. It can't look like us.' 'A-sailing. Flying free like birds. Birds. I put birds on my newest set of boots...'

[JAYNE LANCEL ASTOR]

His sisters were both a puzzle. One minute, they were fighting with one another over his own honor and how Karson had gone running to father to defend him, and now Karson wanted to hear all about their “news.” What was new in Jayne's life? A lot of things, actually. More than just a handful. Daphne knows a few of them, but can I tell Karson? Jayne's thoughts raced through his head, then Daphne started speaking. They had discussed war, too, but that was upon his suggestion and change of topic. It seemed that his mind was very occupied with war because he knew, soon enough, that times would be changing. Daphne knew, but Karson... no, Karson couldn't know. She'd never forgive them if she did know what her elder twin and oldest, most trusted brother were plotting. It would be simple, then there would be an investigation and everything would be over. They'd be home free and on their way to a new era, a better era, and a stronger family. At least, that was Jayne's hope. But then there was Neely, and Karson suggested that she be allowed to speak to his youngest sister on the family's behalf. Neely had been the wild card for years, since she'd gotten out of the hospital and paved the road to a better, healthier life, but none of them had really seen her. She kept her distance, and it worried Jayne to no end, wondering what kind of troubles she was getting into, what dangers were lurking in her life that he couldn't see because she hid herself away like a recluse.

Karson would have a more gentle approach than he or Daphne, certainly, but would she be able to dictate his words with the power and strength needed to sound the call for action? Would she be able to make Neely care or would she just avoid her ire and further resentment as he and the rest had gotten for years, even though her sickness was, at least, he believed, no fault of their own. It was a sickness of the mind, the doctors had said, but not like Daphne's. Neely had brought most of her suffering upon herself, the poor thing, and if Jayne had known her struggle he might have tried to help. The eldest had fallen short, and blamed himself for her suffering, as if he'd dealt it with his own hand. One day, he hoped she'd see the love he had for her and come home... because even though they shared a house, it hadn't been a home to her since they were small children, free and without a care in the world. Daphne never had liked Neely much, either, but who did she like, truly, other than him? She seemed to think Karson speaking to Neely was fine, didn't see a trouble with it.

Karson would be gentle, and she'd make him seem kinder than he was. ”If you're set on this, Karson, then I'll give my consent.” Jayne sighed, resigned to his choice and hoping that it would all turn out for the best. ”You'll let me know after the two of you have spoken? What she said, where she stands?” He didn't want to raise his hopes up so high they'd be dashed if Neely ended up behaving in a way he'd expect her to do. But still there was a chance that in this, his family could be mostly re-united and whole like they hadn't been in years. So, he'd hold out small hopes for that and put faith in Karson to come through for him and for them all. They started talking of happier subjects then, and Daphne rattled on about changes, and Jayne listened intently, noticing that she almost said too much and went too far, but when she got in this mode, he was the only one other than herself who could understand, really. Karson wouldn't have caught onto their dark little secret. ”Birds on your boots? Why, it's true you are a little bird, then. Are these boots you've made, Daphne?” He wondered if she had used the wolf pelt from their hunt the other day for the boots, or if she'd fashioned them out of some new material or simply gotten them from the store.

”I can say that my recent life has been rather droll, as always. At least to the two of you,” Jayne said. ”Politics have made me tired, but such is the fate of the eldest, and a burden I'm willing to bear for the two of you to lead a life of pleasantries.” This was a dirty lie, and he knew it the moment he'd opened his mouth. There had been long conversations with Eryn and wild adventures with Tullia. There had been romance blossoming with Jyli, and a plan to sit on his father's seat soon enough, but not too soon that there'd be reason to suspect a coup. As far as his family knew, he was dismal and icy Jayne, same as always, the serious young boy who never really learned to have fun. But the world outside was bigger than he'd known as a boy, and he was starting to learn the meaning of fun. So politics weren't making him weary, but living his life was bringing new experiences to his table and making him question what they would be in the future, and what the future would look like when a new day came forth. ”Please tell me one of you has an interesting story to tell, as I have nothing to share.” Jayne moved to sit next to Daphne and hoped his answers would suffice.

[/justify]

[KARSON TATHRA ASTOR]

Karson just smiled happily,it was nice to know Jayne trusted her enough to let her talked to their sibling. Neely was one of a kind,just like all of her siblings, but Neely had a deep hatred for them as well. Well what Karson thought of as hatred,she loved all of her siblings she wished she could have been there for Neely more. She knew they were building bridges now but it was still going to be a long road,but she wanted to at least try to talk to Neely let her know what was happening,maybe extend and olive branch in a sense. Nodding her head she looked to Jayne with a more serious expression. " Of course brother I wouldn't do anything less." She knew how important this was too Jayne just from the tone of his voice from the conversation before. So she would everything in power not mess up or disappoint him again. Hearing Jayne and Daphne talk she couldn't help but smile and yet feel a twinge of jealousy she knew her relationship with both of them were strained. Daphne more so then Jayne since she was the one that helped Daphne get placed in the home some of that guilt never died,it was hard to try to get over the fact that she caused her sister such pain. She truly believed that it was helping her until she came back and was worse then before. Jayne and hers was strained as well,she knew better then to pry or push but it still hurt Karson to know they weren't as close as they were.

Those thoughts were pushed to the way side as she heard Jayne talk about his daily life. She needed to help him get out more,maybe experience the joys in life like she did. Although if others saw who she was hanging out with,she probably wouldn't see much of the outside world,she was sure her brother and sisters couldn't care,but her parents that was something all together she was still an Astor even though she wasn't going to become head of the family,she still did have an image to uphold and hanging out with different species then herself well that wasn't a good way to be on terms with her family. It was always a rough when her parents got involved with their affairs of what they could and could not do. Or like tonight when Karson tried to stick up for her brother and well then it just got down right ugly. Although she couldn't help but frown at hearing about Jayne and taking heavy burdens to enjoy life,she knew better then to ask if she could help though. Jayne was one of the strongest people she knew. so she hoped that he had someway to vent the stress this life was probably causing him amongst other things.

Although when the question was posed about what she was doing she blinked and tried to think of how to answer well she hadn't done anything bad as of later. At least what she would think of as bad. " Nothing much Jayne ,just read some books enjoyed the outside. Truly nothing at all exciting. " Well she did go to the zoo spend time with her best friend and hung out with Katerina but those probably weren't the best subjects to bring up at his point in time. " So nothing of much to note in my life either sadly dull as well I guess." Giving a shrug she ran fingers though her hair and looked out the window,she wondered how her owl was doing at the moment she loved her pet it always brought her a form of piece looking at her and taking care of her.