Lord Colin Coward (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
occultdisciple) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
undergrounds2015-11-05 09:58 pm
occultdisciple) wrote in undergrounds2015-11-05 09:58 pm
Entry tags:
Is this a dagger which I see before me (Nov catch-all)
Come, let me clutch thee
Lewisham, early November, day
The streets themselves were classic. He still knew their twists and turns, even if automobiles commanded the streets instead of horse-drawn carriages. Even so, it was good to be back on them, walking the once-familiar paths to learn what had replaced what he knew. The air of the place was entirely different, and he was almost sorry to see it lost. London hadn't been perfect then, no, but he'd known it. Now, he had to get to know a stranger all over again.
He folded up his newspaper he had been reading and set it aside on a bench. Anyone else who might want it was more than welcome to it. He'd read all he cared for by now. It was fascinating how scandal now was a natural consequence of being a politician, not something that would immediately ruin a man. Of course, he'd had plenty of time to learn that. It still struck him as amusing at times.
It was a shame to feel the fae magic in the area. While he'd never been particularly bothered with the fae -- he'd tapped into their power more than once during his Midnight days -- it simply felt wrong that they should be holding as much of the mortal realm in London as they seemed to. This was another world, not theirs. So, he'd have to see that set to right.
Deep in his thoughts, he'd begun walking, only to make a turn and clip someone's shoulder with his. Or perhaps they clipped him. Either way, the result was the same, and he gave a slight, old-fashioned bow. "Excuse me. I was distracted. Are you alright?"
I have thee not
Approaching Daybreak, November 8th
"Thank you, sir, for agreeing to meet me so quickly." As he said it, Lord Coward approached the man with an extended hand. It was refreshing to know that some things never changed -- like Daybreak politics. Men who rose to high ranks, as this man had, were often keen to keep them. It tended toward the matriarcal, after all.
Which was where they might well be able to help one another.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mister Norrell."
And yet I see thee still
Approaching Redbright, November 10th
This was new. Well, not particularly new, perhaps, but certainly after his time. He hadn't been to London since it's founding. It certainly presented itself as a noble cause and a fine instutition, which only made himself wonder what the cracks were. What dark little secrets were hidden in its walls.
That was a matter for another time. As it stood, Lord Coward had a few tasks to accomplish at the school, not least of which was attempting to facilitate getting help for pushing the fae out of Lewisham. The school was run, after all, by the leader of Daybreak, so there was surely cause to think she might be of assistance.
It wouldn't hurt, certainly, to see a bit of the campus, too.
Art thou not, fatal vision, sensible
Approaching East End, November 12th
Of all the appointments Lord Coward had made this week, this was the one he was most dreading. It was, after all, an ancient feud that had its reasons for continuing. He had no real desire to do this, but he was too unconnected to properly act. So, it would have to be done.
"Thank you, Mister Memon, for agreeing to this meeting." Unlike with the Daybreak High Priest, Coward didn't offer his hand. They were on far different footing. "I know our social circles have their differences."
A polite way of putting it, to be sure, but he wasn't about to insult the man. Not when he wanted to suggest that it was in their best interest not to try killing one another for awhile.
To feeling as to sight
Whitechapel, mid November, night
There were always plenty of people willing to let a vampire feed on them. Sometimes, as with one of his newest acquaintances, they wanted money. Others were just after the thrill. He appreciated both equally.
But nothing could quite match the pleasure of the hunt.
It felt almost laughable to walk the streets of Whitechapel, looking for prey. He was quite content with having this as his territory to protect. Still, it wasn't lost on him that these were the very places the Ripper hand once looked for his prey. He couldn't help but chuckle at the mere idea.
When he saw someone, he approached, offering a raised hand to indicate he was there. He smiled a bit, almost wary. "Good evening. Bit late to be out, isn't it?"
Lewisham, early November, day
The streets themselves were classic. He still knew their twists and turns, even if automobiles commanded the streets instead of horse-drawn carriages. Even so, it was good to be back on them, walking the once-familiar paths to learn what had replaced what he knew. The air of the place was entirely different, and he was almost sorry to see it lost. London hadn't been perfect then, no, but he'd known it. Now, he had to get to know a stranger all over again.
He folded up his newspaper he had been reading and set it aside on a bench. Anyone else who might want it was more than welcome to it. He'd read all he cared for by now. It was fascinating how scandal now was a natural consequence of being a politician, not something that would immediately ruin a man. Of course, he'd had plenty of time to learn that. It still struck him as amusing at times.
It was a shame to feel the fae magic in the area. While he'd never been particularly bothered with the fae -- he'd tapped into their power more than once during his Midnight days -- it simply felt wrong that they should be holding as much of the mortal realm in London as they seemed to. This was another world, not theirs. So, he'd have to see that set to right.
Deep in his thoughts, he'd begun walking, only to make a turn and clip someone's shoulder with his. Or perhaps they clipped him. Either way, the result was the same, and he gave a slight, old-fashioned bow. "Excuse me. I was distracted. Are you alright?"
I have thee not
Approaching Daybreak, November 8th
"Thank you, sir, for agreeing to meet me so quickly." As he said it, Lord Coward approached the man with an extended hand. It was refreshing to know that some things never changed -- like Daybreak politics. Men who rose to high ranks, as this man had, were often keen to keep them. It tended toward the matriarcal, after all.
Which was where they might well be able to help one another.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mister Norrell."
And yet I see thee still
Approaching Redbright, November 10th
This was new. Well, not particularly new, perhaps, but certainly after his time. He hadn't been to London since it's founding. It certainly presented itself as a noble cause and a fine instutition, which only made himself wonder what the cracks were. What dark little secrets were hidden in its walls.
That was a matter for another time. As it stood, Lord Coward had a few tasks to accomplish at the school, not least of which was attempting to facilitate getting help for pushing the fae out of Lewisham. The school was run, after all, by the leader of Daybreak, so there was surely cause to think she might be of assistance.
It wouldn't hurt, certainly, to see a bit of the campus, too.
Art thou not, fatal vision, sensible
Approaching East End, November 12th
Of all the appointments Lord Coward had made this week, this was the one he was most dreading. It was, after all, an ancient feud that had its reasons for continuing. He had no real desire to do this, but he was too unconnected to properly act. So, it would have to be done.
"Thank you, Mister Memon, for agreeing to this meeting." Unlike with the Daybreak High Priest, Coward didn't offer his hand. They were on far different footing. "I know our social circles have their differences."
A polite way of putting it, to be sure, but he wasn't about to insult the man. Not when he wanted to suggest that it was in their best interest not to try killing one another for awhile.
To feeling as to sight
Whitechapel, mid November, night
There were always plenty of people willing to let a vampire feed on them. Sometimes, as with one of his newest acquaintances, they wanted money. Others were just after the thrill. He appreciated both equally.
But nothing could quite match the pleasure of the hunt.
It felt almost laughable to walk the streets of Whitechapel, looking for prey. He was quite content with having this as his territory to protect. Still, it wasn't lost on him that these were the very places the Ripper hand once looked for his prey. He couldn't help but chuckle at the mere idea.
When he saw someone, he approached, offering a raised hand to indicate he was there. He smiled a bit, almost wary. "Good evening. Bit late to be out, isn't it?"
no subject
Making deals with vampires was scraping the bottom of the barrel, for sure. This wasn't going to win him any popularity contests with his pack but it would potentially save their lives if he could ignore everything he'd ever learnt since he was turned.
"That's putting it mildly."
His smile is professional, as is his handshake.
no subject
Coward smiled faintly, showing the teeth that, for now, looked perfectly flat, only a bit of sharpness that was human at the canines. He did certainly have a bottle of wine ready, though he doubted his guest would be drinking. After all, he couldn't get drunk, and he doubted the man who'd be sitting across from him wanted that disadvantage on his head. So he wouldn't insist.
"Or, perhaps," he murmured, taking his seat and motioning to the other chair, "we can see to an armistice of a few months. With, perhaps, a bit of assistance for each other in other goals for that time."
no subject
It's not as if James instantly likes the vampire. But he hates less than he thought he would.
It's disconcerting.
"What would you want from me? I can assure you no other member of my pack would support you in your endeavors."
This was more of a deal between individuals than organizations.
no subject
But someone had to set an example. He knew full well how badly it could go to fight multiple fronts in a war. That was why he had a list of people to speak to, agreements to reach. For now, the werewolves were essential.
"I haven't been in London for some time. Imagine my surprise, then, to learn that the fae have crossed into our realm and are taking territories of which they have no need." Step one: establish a mutual interest. "I believe we can all -- or most of us, at least -- agree that their efforts must be counteracted."
It would be an uneasy truce, but making it clear it wouldn't last might help a good deal for both sides.
"Until that can happen, I would suggest that we serve our common concern. We drive the fae out of the mortal realm. Then, we can happily go back to killing each other."
no subject
He can't really say why the fae do what they do - but that's sort of the whole theme with them isn't it? They're whimsical.
They're a headache is what they really are.
And while he can appreciate the sentiment, all James has to offer him is his ambition. His connections are minimal and his influence is practically nonexistent. It's turning out to be difficult to manage a political career in the supernatural and mortal world at the same time.
"Is that all you wished to discuss?"
no subject
An attempt the werewolves might interfere with since he was announcing it. But--
"I would like your help. And the help of anyone in the pack who would agree. In exchange, I will offer my help and the help of anyone in the nest who will agree when your pack decides to expand. So long, of course, as it is not into vampire territory."
no subject
"Of course," he demurred. "And as long as you do not drive them into East End territory - we would be happy to aid you in that regard."
'Happy' might be a strong word. More like strong armed into it from their perspective, and James knew this would be their reaction. But when there was a greater threat, action had to be taken - whether he liked it or not.
no subject
His 'pleased' and James's 'happy' were very similar.
But something had to be done about the fae. They were best kept to their realm, passing through this one but not setting up permanent residences. Even Blackwood, for all his ambitions, had never trusted the fae. Never given them free reign. Nor would he ever have done so.
no subject
Honestly, it's in his favor that his pack is small and that it's influential members have disappeared in one way or another. Coward better have some influence of his own or else he'll be having a rougher time of it than he will.
no subject
"Very carefully."
Nov 8th
He was a vampire, and although he had been a witch before that Norrell regarded his life with great suspicion.
Yet Childermass had told him Coward had connections and ambition. Things, he assured Norrell, that he might be amenable to using if he hopes to rise to a position of note. Such a man, he told Norrell, is a good person to have owing you a favour.
Norrell was uncomfortable, but agreed finally. If with a certain degree of irritation.
When Lord Coward enters Norrell does not stand or look up. He continues writing, since of course his time is far too important for him to stop working just because a vampire wishes to speak with him...! Finally his eyes flick up, regard the hand offered with mild distaste, then drop again to his paper.
Coward might have his work cut out here. Off to one side, lurking as a constant guard, Childermass visibly rolls his eyes.
"There was something you wanted to discuss?" Norrell prompts, seemingly not particularly interested in whatever it might be. Not yet.
no subject
"I was told, sir, that you consider the wide-spread influence of the fae -- particularly their establishing a firm presence in this realm -- as a serious threat." There was no need to bother with pleasantries here. If the man wanted to jump straight to business, that was the smartest thing to do. Which meant his first point had to be establishing a shared interest. "I wanted, therefore, to commend you in person and discuss how we might help one another in that regard."
He had been young when he took a seat in the House of Lords, acted as the Lion for the Order, and been made Home Secretary. A great deal of his work then had been accomplished by being what his elders -- even if he was the elder in this case -- wanted him to be. Saying the right thing in the right way and doing exactly what he ought. This man was no different.
no subject
"I think them very much a threat," he says finally, "how many territories have they taken in the past few months? How much damage have they caused? Yet still people sit idly by and lick their wounds. Daybreak was once a strong presence in London. If we continue to allow such insult as the fae, who we have always sealed out for this very reason, to keep claiming land from us soon the entire of London is sure to fall to their majority!"
He laces his hands together, sits back more comfortably in his chair and regards Coward.
"You wish the fae gone too?"
no subject
Men who wear their opinions and emotions at every turn have always been the sort Colin likes to put himself near. He was one of them once, and he'd been shown a new way of life. Been exposed to a new kind of personality. Not that he thinks he's anywhere near as powerful or persuasive as Lord Blackwood, but he won't forget that first meeting any time soon.
It allows him to smile a little more and step forward, offering his hand.
"Lord Colin Coward. I intend to do what I can to push the fae back to their own realm."
no subject
So it is that he sits forward finally, clasps Coward's hand this time for a moment.
"Then I would be happy to hear you out. You have an idea?"
A venture, perhaps? A plan of some sort? He sits back and laces his hands once more, regards Coward with open curiosity. A vampire who used to be a witch is a strange sort of thing, to Norrell. Especially Coward here. The vampire in the man sets him uneasy but the witch is a side he understands.
no subject
Coward waits only long enough for an assent before he takes a seat across from Norrell. What he is... Well. He can trade on what he was in this situation.
"Naturally, I must consider the interests of my nest first and foremost," he murmurs, considering the words carefully. Or, rather, considering them as he has rehearsed. "But I am not unsympathetic to the plight of Circle Daybreak with the fae."
He pauses. Then, he says, "I would like to expand the reach of the nest, and I would like to use that movement to push the fae back, out of this realm. Make London safer from them."
no subject
"And how far would you expect to expand? How many territories would be claimed in the name of this? Would such a thing stop once the fae are gone?"
He slumps back in his chair and shakes his head unhappily. No, on paper all he can see right now is a vampire faction spreading its claim. One right next to Daybreak, too, and that is not reassuring.
no subject
He smiles easily. It is a dangerous look. Young and charming. One that led many of his fellows in both the House of Lords and the Daybreak coven he was in away from their righteous path.
"And, of course, for a formal alliance, it would be understood that there would be a mutual promise of non-aggression."
no subject
Pushing to his feet he paces behind his chair, leans his arms onto the back of it and laces his hands together -- thinking, comparing plans. If Islington wish to expand regardless, of course...
"And how can we be sure," he says carefully, "that your word is good? How do we know you will not turn on us at a moment's notice, that you do not lead us into a trap on behalf of the fae?"
Nov 10th
She looks up, eyes bright in the relative dim of the enclosed greenhouse. "Mr Coward?"
no subject
"Lord Coward," he offered. One gentle correction was all he'd bother with. If the address continued, he'd accept it as a necessary evil of today. "Thank you very much for agreeing to meet with me. I've only recently arrived back in London, so I thought it best to make necessary introductions."
no subject
Sylvia continued her work, still grounding up the fresh rosemary. "Lord Coward, of course. Sylvia Redbright. I'll be frank with you, I wasn't going to accept your request to meet, but then I looked up your name. You used to be a witch." She met his eyes and smiled faintly. "Welcome back."
She knew who he was, or at least what the witches of the time had recorded about him. It all started off well, but finished rather badly. And when a witch became a vampire... well, they lost everything that connected them to magic. Some hated it. Some embraced it. Whether she felt sorry for him or not would depend on which category he fell into.
no subject
But it reminded him of home and his youth. Of the years in the Circle. Years he'd quite enjoyed.
"I was very impressed to hear about your school."
no subject
no subject
Not that it had been bad, no, but to be able to unite the community and teach all who came safely. Better than individual covens each trying to teach only those they considered worthy. His mother had gotten him under Sir Thomas's tutelage quickly, but others hadn't been so lucky.
"I hope you take donations. I'd love to contribute." At the very least, that much was sincere.
no subject
"You're very generous. Yes, we do take donations." She looked up at him, considering. "But I can't imagine that's the only reason you've come here. So, what can I do for you?"
He might appear generous, but she knew from experience that such offers tended to come with strings attached.
no subject
"I've only recently arrived back in London, and I don't recall there being quite the same strength of presence of the fae, last I heard."
no subject
"You're right, that's a recent development. They've taken over a large part of south-east London. Made a lot of work for us too. Cover-ups and so on."
Sometimes the fae got careless. Their magic warped the ordinary world, drew mortals in and out of the Other Realm, and befuddled the human population. The effects were relatively contained, for now, but they had also started to encroach on witch territory and Sylvia was not at all happy about that.
no subject
Even in his day, the fae had been difficult to deal with. Lord Blackwood, for all his power and dark rituals, had been careful about anything of that nature. The arrangements made were few and delicately handled. Everything he'd learned about that sort of magic, he'd been taught by his Shepherd.
"It is, of course, in the interests of the Islington Nest to expand its territory. And, I believe, in a fairly common interest to use that to push the fae back."
no subject
At least he had picked the right target. She could hardly object to that. And why not make use of an ambitious vampire? In many ways they were the fae's deadliest foes.
"We have a common interest in pushing the fae back," she agreed, which was not quite the same as expanding Islington territory in order to do so. "So are you here to ask for my help, or simply my approval?"
The implication being that any action he took required her approval. Sylvia was not above using words in her own favour.
no subject
"Your permission, though your help would not be turned away. I don't expect any favours." Yet. He would have to wait on that until he had more material to bargain. "It would not do to cross the Mother of Witches and President of the Night Council."
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"What exactly do you intend to do?"
She wouldn't agree to anything until she knew what she was agreeing to.
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Physically, the movement itself would be simple. Vampires were dangerous foes, even against the powers of the fae. But the politics were another issue entirely.
"I have a few other meetings this week to discuss the prospect, and I've no doubt there will be ramifications." Future expansions, future conflicts... "But, for now, that is my aim."
no subject
It wasn't the easiest decision. But she knew what the right choice had to be.
"All right," she said finally. "Drive them out. I'll look the other way."
She wouldn't help him. But she wouldn't hinder either.