Post by Sephiroth du Lac on Feb 20, 2014 4:12:59 GMT
This rp is written as a reintroduction to maria and Seph's relationship. Older rps are being used to recapture the moment of their most intimate times.
"I love you, in spite of all your faults,
is that bad? Probably..."
-Unknown-
What has happened to me?
To us?
How has this happened?
At first I thought with the baby and me
he could find some measure of peace.
But there is no rest for the wicked.
No rest for the damned.
Estúpido, Maria.
He has become so different now.
So foreign.
So unknown.
Who is he?
This man I love?
Is he still the white knight running into save me?
Or has he finally succumbed to the beast within?
I do not know...
So what now, Maria?
What now?
"I love you, in spite of all your faults,
is that bad? Probably..."
-Unknown-
What has happened to me?
To us?
How has this happened?
At first I thought with the baby and me
he could find some measure of peace.
But there is no rest for the wicked.
No rest for the damned.
Estúpido, Maria.
He has become so different now.
So foreign.
So unknown.
Who is he?
This man I love?
Is he still the white knight running into save me?
Or has he finally succumbed to the beast within?
I do not know...
So what now, Maria?
What now?
*The camera opens on Seph and Maria's bedroom as Maria sits on the bed staring down at her reflection in the shiny cherry wood floor. Her barefeet softly brushing as she kicks her feet trying not to look at him as he is packing his suitcase. She had not spoken to him since the fight though she had still supported him in his last match. They worked in silence, Seph folding his own clothes while she sat staring lost in her own mind. At length he began to close his case gently turning to her as he spoke.*
Seph: I'll be gone for a few days. Don't worry. I'll call when Abel and I get there.
*She looked up at him her head half cocked as if listening but feigning disinterest.*
Maria: I see... am I to stay here alone then?
*Seph says not a word nodding as he reached for a glass of red liquid on the table. His hand slipped misplacing it's steadiness and she reached out to grab it by instinct as their hands touched...
... and instantly she was back in another place. Another time. Williamsburg, VA; the colonial park of the town. An old general store two hands in destiny meet, touch and with them two sets of eyes meet. He smiled, she blushed as she spoke.*
Maria: I... I'm sorry. I was reaching for the seal beside it. For my brother.
Seph: Were he ripped from the same womb as yours, dear lady, he must be a god.
*She blushed under a soft giggle and Sephiroth could see the simple beauty in such a woman. She wore clothes of modest make but flattering enough that they accentuated her features. Her long dress of solid black reached the floor and her simple white dress shirt gave pause only to the simple rosary around her neck. Sephiroth pressed the moment to his advantage and spoke to her once more.*
Seph: Pardon my forwardness, my lady. My tongue is that of a warrior, not a poet. I spend my days among rough men, the delicateness of a woman is lost on men such as that.
Maria: You speak like a poet.
Seph: Then it must be your beauty that forces my tongue to do so.
*She chuckled and in her childish giggle he found comfort.*
Maria: You flatter me. Do you work here?
Seph: Here?
*Sephiroth simply smiled and chuckled himself then held the belt clutched to his shoulder.*
Seph: I am a warrior, my lady, not an actor. I am a wrestler in the common tongue.
*She simply smiled*
Maria: You work for the NCW?
Seph: I do.
Maria: Then you probably know my brother. Tempestad?
*Seph felt the irony clutching at his breast. How ironic his first enemy in his new home would prove to be the brother of such an angel. Seph had to wonder at that moment why such a man, if he looked as his sister did, would hide behind a mask. Still he would not relent. He had the advantage though he was somewhat stumbled by the moment he continued as a true predator after prey.*
Seph: I know of him. He and I have made war before. Though I admit I held back in our last meeting. Perhaps it was because I sensed there was more behind his eyes. Had I known that his sister was the personification of a goddess I would have taken more precaution.
*She smiled at him her eyes soft and calm.*
Maria: I am Maria.
Seph: I, my dear lady, am Sephiroth du Lac.
*With that he tipped a bow and drew his hand forth. Like the ladies of old she slipped it in his gloved mit and he kissed her gentle hand. He drew away once more and the woman looked at him kindly.*
Maria: I have heard of you. They say you think yourself to be a vampire.
Seph: What men say of me I do not care. I am what I am.
Maria: And what is that?
Seph: A champion. Jealous tongues wag but in this belt they are silenced.
Maria: Is that all you are?
Seph: I am but a man who's words leave him in the presence of your beauty.
*They stood in silence and in that silence was the beginning of her downfall....
... She fought the memory, trying to not let it sweep her away. She looked at him with gentle eyes holding the glass still as he withdrew. Even now she was trying to right his wrongs. Trying to validate his coldness. She sighed gently in a low if desperate sigh.*
Maria: Will you be home after the match?
*Seph did not look up merely adjusting his collar a bit as he fluffed the ruffles of his wrists.*
Seph: Perhaps. I haven't decided yet. I might stay for a day or so. That is all. I have some interviews to do after the match contracts to sign.
Maria: I see...
Seph: Besides, I have to see Valek before I go. We have 'business' to discuss. So I'll be stopping by the club.
Maria: I see.. that is... good, mi amor. Very... good.
*She seemed listless as he stared at her in confusion as her mind blanked for a moment to another time...
... to the first time she stepped in that club. That awful awful club a simple woman, a beautiful latino woman that NCW fans had come to know all to well. The beautiful sister of Tempestad, Maria. She steps forward like a lost lamb. Her fingers toying with her nails. Her nervousness apparent as he steps toward her moving through the numerous masses. When he reaches her she looks at him in sudden surprise and then a smile of relief graces her face that melts Seph to his very core.*
Maria: Señor du Lac, it is good to see you.
Seph: As it is you, my dear. What are you doing in a godless place like this?
Maria: Adios mio, my friend, Alicia, dragged me here. I've been trying to convince her to come back to the cloth. I fear my efforts have been in vain.
Seph: Where is she?
*Maria pointed to a darkened corner of the room and Seph looked. Seeing a beautiful blond haired woman standing in full leather garb. She raises a hand to a stranger clad in black and Seph notes the puncture wounds upon her wrist. Four of them evenly placed. A scene all to familiar to the jaded vampire. He turned to Maria and with a soft voice of comfort spoke to her.*
Seph: I fear you are right. But have faith not all can be called to the kingdom.
Maria: I fear my own path is marred by failure.
Seph: You mustn't give up. To concede is worse than failure.
*She looks at him with soft eyes shining with a pleasant comfort.*
Maria: Why do you come here?
*Seph just smiles guiltily and chuckles a bit at the question.*
Seph: I... um... own this place.
*She chuckles at his sudden embarrassment and smirks at him.*
Maria: I see... well it is very... nice.
Seph: Really?
*She bursts out laughing and shakes her head*
Maria: No, not really.
*Seph clutches his heart mockingly.*
Seph: Ouch, you wound me with your words, dear Maria. Still I can see your distaste for such a place. Your outfit is somewhat ill fitting.
*She adjusts her top a bit as Seph stares at her flesh practically pouring out of her top.*
Maria: It is a bit tight.
*Seph tries to not look and turns his head as she shifts and as he does he sees Alicia pointing to them and a single pale figure looking at them. Seph's eyes shift a bit and the other man's shift as well. Seph's face grows stern and he grips the title close. A show of bravado in subtle movements. She looks up noticing his attention elsewhere. She traces it back to Alicia and looks to him in a soft glance.*
Maria: She is beautiful isn't she?
Seph: Huh? Who?
Maria: Were you not glancing at Alicia?
Seph: Who? Oh, your friend... she is quite stunning. But pale in comparison with the light from your star.
*She smiles at Seph as he looks in her eyes.*
Maria: You flatter me again, Señor.
Seph: I say nothing that is not truth. Your light blinds me in this dark place.
*She blushes and turns away as a new song suddenly begins to play, "Face to Face" by Siouxsie and the Banshees... ... Seph smiled as the song came on then looked back at the man in the corner. Suddenly he saw two others behind him draped in darkness watching him as he stood as if challenging. Seph just snarled a bit then looked softly at her.*
Seph: Would you care to dance?
Maria: What? Now?
Seph: Why not?
*She smiled at him and looked at him curiously. He gently bowed to her offering his hand to her. She smiled as if a small girl being asked by prince charming to dance. She took his hand and he kissed it before drawing her near and dancing right there in the entrance way. She smiled and sighed softly.*
Maria: You make me feel different, do you know that?
Seph: I do?
Maria: Mmhmm... your unlike any man I have ever known.
*Seph smiled a bit at that and she at him. His eyes shifted for the briefest of moments noticing the previous man in the corner slowly sit back down. Seph just smiled and nodded to him then looked at her once more.*
Seph: You are a light in a dark and weary world, Maria. One of God's most precious creatures. Your brother is lucky to have you.
Maria: Sometimes I feel eclipsed by him. He is always so brave and I... I am so timid.
Seph: You are braver then you know, Maria. Your being here proves that.
Maria: I am no warrior like he is. Nor you are. Facing opponents every week. Sometimes two. Possibly being ambushed each week. Everyday is an adventure for you.
Seph: A child of God seeks not adventure but merely the warmth of God's love. Perhaps your heart is telling you something.
Maria: I... I don't know. So much of my life is there. Maybe... I don't know. I...
*Seph placed a finger gently upon her lips and smiled at her. A reassuring smile like that of a father to a child or a lover to his bride.*
Seph: Shhhh... let thoughts not trouble you. Tonight there is only this moment. This dance. Let us enjoy the moment for tomorrow who knows what things may come.
*The thoughts that troubled her now made all that she knew then obsolete. Once she was a good woman. Kind, merciful, god-fearing. Had he taken that away or had she? Had she given up on so much? The humanity she once held. How long till she too grew cold and distant. Another year? Two years? Ten? A hundred? How long till even her daughter meant nothing to her then another sack of blood. Still he was not completely gone. She knew that. At times he showed it. Warm. Kind. Endearing. But just as much lately he had been cruel, evil, malicious. Had he always truly been this way? No... no... that was not her, Amor. The weight of the world was on him. A match against a champion... it was what he lived for. She looked at him desperate to see his kind eyes. the eyes she fell in love with instead the eyes looked weary and tired with a glaze of some profound frustration. maybe even madness. She shrunk from those eyes despite herself.*
Seph: Is something wrong, dear?
Maria: N-no... nothing, mi amor.
*She hugged herself rocking a bit trying to relieve the fear. Retreating into her memory...
... The memory drifts to that first date. The first time they were a couple. Both of them sitting awkwardly in silence. Seph looks at her with a silent pleasant smile and she with awkward clumsy glances sits in silence. Neither sure what to say to the other. Neither sure what to do. Finally as a waiter passes by Maria coughs breaking the silence. Quickly she reaches for a glass of water and Seph just grins at her. She starts to laugh nearly coughing up her water as she sets down her glass.*
Maria: WHAT? What is so funny?
Seph: I'm sorry. It's nothing. I was just thinking of the situation. I mean we've talked before and now here we are sitting across from one another unsure of what to say? I mean it's silly. Children behave this way.
*She smiles shyly, her face locked in a smile*
Maria: Your right. I'm sorry. I just don't know what we should talk about. I mean after Sunday night...
*She stops putting her fingers to her lips as if to draw the words back to her lips but the damage was done. Seph sighed letting his head drop a bit but he looks up at her and smiles pleasantly enough.*
Seph: It's okay. I was tired after the match was all.
Maria: Are you hurt?
Seph: Me? I am fine.
*Maria looks at him with a conspiratory glance. She leans in as if she did not want others to hear.*
Maria: You know of what I mean.
*Seph looks down and glances back up before grasping the glass of red wine before him from the table. His face seems lost as if trying to remember some great torment.*
Seph: No, to be honest I'm not. I saw his promotion today. The smug look on his face holding MY title. Touting all that nonsense about how he respects me. I was merely a hurdle for him to overcome. Makes me sick to my stomach seeing his filthy undeserving hands gripping...
*He glances over in mid sentence as she softly slips her hand over his. Seph sighs apologetically.*
Seph: I'm sorry. I shouldn't speak of such things.
Maria: It's okay. I know how much it meant to you.
Seph: It's more than that. That title was all I had.
Maria: Have you no family?
*Seph smiled to himself chuckling lightly.*
Seph: Just my brother and he isn't even my brother by blood. Just some idiot who adopted my name.
Maria: I have heard you have a daughter.
*Seph shakes his head and sighs*
Seph: Adopted only. She moves around a lot. I hardly see her unless she's home.
Maria: So, who do you go home to?
*Seph awkwardly plays with the stem of his wine glass looking at it softly, thoughtfully, as he talks about his private life.*
Seph: An empty house and tattered memories.
*Maria looks into his eyes as she speaks. Her eyes filled with caring and genuine concern.*
Maria: You sound so sad when you say that.
*Seph just absent mindedly speaks softly.*
Seph: Do I?
Maria: Sí, sé usted siente. I only have my brother. He's my family but sometimes he makes me so mad. Sometimes I wish I could be like you. Sometimes I think it would be better to be alone.
*Seph smiled softly and looked at her placing his own hand on top of the hand that comforted him.*
Seph: Maria, you do not need to be alone. You merely need something more. I know what it is to live in someone's shadow. To be overwhelmed by the legend of another. You must forge your own path.
Maria: It's just that sometimes I feel like I am missing out and to be honest things are boring in the convent. Sometimes I feel I want more out of life.
Seph: The only one that can change things is you, Maria.
Maria: But I will disappoint all the people counting on me. Father Sapienza, mi hermano, the mother superior...
*Seph sighs grasping her hand and looking into her eyes deeply. The two's eyes meet and in them Maria sees the caring in his eyes.*
Seph: Maria, sometimes in order to save ourselves certain sacrifices must be made. If your family truly loves you they will understand. Sometimes we must be cruel to further greater kindness. Do you understand?
*She smiles softly at his warm advice but her thoughts linger to him himself.*
Maria: Have you made such sacrifices, Señor du Lac?
Seph: I have... and they have made all the difference.
*She smiles coyly at him. Her eyes fluttering a bit from his response...
... The sacrifices he made. Was she one now? Was she one more sacrifice to cast aside for his own pursuits. He was always motivated. He always wanted the title. Any title. Proof, vindication that all the sacrifices were somehow worth it. No, this was the man that saved her. That when Karras came and whipped her with a scourge he ran to help her. When others mocked their love and questioned it he stayed true she wasn't sure why but she knew who he really was. What man he had been... once... so long ago.*
Maria: Mi amor?
*He looked up and as he did her eyes met his. She looked and almost forced herself to see the spark in him. The life she had fallen in love with. She looked and a brief smile graced his face.*
Seph: What? What is it?
Maria: I... I just will miss you. I will miss you this week.
*He dropped his head away from her looking away. He was hiding something. She didn't know what but he was and suddenly she saw the truth... that look was gone. His loving gaze no longer looked to her...
... Seph looked at a nice fresh empty glass then looked up at Maria and the doctor talking. Distracted. With a quick pouring from his hand the red dripping liquid poured into the empty glass and with a singular motion he brought his hand again to his lips. With a snakelike demeanor his tongue darted out sliding like a blade against the wound upon his hand. In an instant it was gone, it's only trace in the glass before him as with his other hand he poured a snifter of brandy wine. He then picked it up as the doctor walked out nodding to Maria. Seph could feel this was the moment. This was what he needed to take. He walked to her and as he did a weak smile graced her face but Seph looked at it with mixed feelings both of sorrow for the pain she was in but also joy at the recovery that awaited her. He forced a smile at her and nodded.*
Seph: How are you?
*Maria only nodded meekly. Her face sweating with the severity of the fever.*
Maria: El buen doctor says that I may take weeks to heal. She's hoping the antibiotics will work tonight though. She said my fever is dangerous.
Seph: That it is. I would see that it subside as well. When I was living, my mother would give me brandy wine to help me. I think it could help you too.
*Seph held out the glass with a quiet optimism. Maria looked at it wearily though and began to politely decline.*
Maria: No puedo, mi amor. I do not drink.
*Seph looked at her disappointed but quickly played into her. His voice lilted playfully, like that of a playful parent urging their children to try medicine.*
Seph: Please, it may help. Besides I want to help you.
*Maria saw the sincerity in his eyes, felt it in his voice and nodded consenting as painfully she reached up to the cup.*
Maria: Alright, mi amor. For you.
*With that she took the glass and Seph watched anxiously. Maria stared at it her eyes examining as if looking for something in it...
... She knew what depths the monster would sink for what he wanted. But it had always been balanced by that gentleness. By that kindness he always had. She wondered how long it had been gone. had it left when she ran the first time? When he found her again? Was it someone else? Something else? Was it the title that he had been obsessing over or maybe... maybe it was just that he had never cared... no... something was wrong. Something was wrong. She had to believe that. She had to hold on to that thought. Even if it was a lie. For she was alone now. Truly alone. No hermano. A baby to look after. She needed it to be all her imagination. All a lie. but the truth stared her in the face clear as day. He didn't love her anymore.*
Seph: Listen, maybe... maybe I'll try and get home early. I'm sure the meetings can wait.
*The look in his eyes grew gentle and a spark, a sudden spark, a light in the darkness of his countenance and she rose then and kissed him. A small act made larger by the memory that came in that kiss...
... two nervous people. A man in his best. A woman in hers standing at an altar speaking from they're heart. *
Maria: We have been through so much. Good times and bad. Sorrow and joy. And through it all you have been my angel. Love has given us both wings to soar, and our journey begins today, Sephiroth, wherever the wind may carry me, I will stay by your side as your wife, Take this ring as a sign of my love, my faith, and my devotion.
*With that she places the ring upon his finger and he smiles at her as lovingly she holds his hand. He then takes his ring and holds it before her his eyes filled with a mixture of emotions.*
Seph: So many nights I sat alone. I sat in darkness and searched but I could not find the light. You have become the beacon to which I live. You are the light I search for in dark times and in you I place all my hopes and dreams. Where there has been cold, you have brought warmth; where my life was dark, you have brought light. Maria, I pledge before this assembled company to be your husband from this day forward. Let us make of our two lives, one life, and let us always honor and respect each other.
*With that he places the ring upon her hand and the two stare in devotion to one another. Father Sapienza rises back to the podium and with outstretched hands he signals to the congregation to stand. All stand and Seph and Maria look up at him.*
Father Sapienza: What God has joined together let no man put asunder.
*And thus we are left with this a memory drifting into reality. Two people holding hands in a photo and two figures reflected in it's glass as he and her share a tender moment. But how much is simple nostalgia and how much is desperation? We are left wondering this question as the scene fades to black.*
Seph: I'll be gone for a few days. Don't worry. I'll call when Abel and I get there.
*She looked up at him her head half cocked as if listening but feigning disinterest.*
Maria: I see... am I to stay here alone then?
*Seph says not a word nodding as he reached for a glass of red liquid on the table. His hand slipped misplacing it's steadiness and she reached out to grab it by instinct as their hands touched...
... and instantly she was back in another place. Another time. Williamsburg, VA; the colonial park of the town. An old general store two hands in destiny meet, touch and with them two sets of eyes meet. He smiled, she blushed as she spoke.*
Maria: I... I'm sorry. I was reaching for the seal beside it. For my brother.
Seph: Were he ripped from the same womb as yours, dear lady, he must be a god.
*She blushed under a soft giggle and Sephiroth could see the simple beauty in such a woman. She wore clothes of modest make but flattering enough that they accentuated her features. Her long dress of solid black reached the floor and her simple white dress shirt gave pause only to the simple rosary around her neck. Sephiroth pressed the moment to his advantage and spoke to her once more.*
Seph: Pardon my forwardness, my lady. My tongue is that of a warrior, not a poet. I spend my days among rough men, the delicateness of a woman is lost on men such as that.
Maria: You speak like a poet.
Seph: Then it must be your beauty that forces my tongue to do so.
*She chuckled and in her childish giggle he found comfort.*
Maria: You flatter me. Do you work here?
Seph: Here?
*Sephiroth simply smiled and chuckled himself then held the belt clutched to his shoulder.*
Seph: I am a warrior, my lady, not an actor. I am a wrestler in the common tongue.
*She simply smiled*
Maria: You work for the NCW?
Seph: I do.
Maria: Then you probably know my brother. Tempestad?
*Seph felt the irony clutching at his breast. How ironic his first enemy in his new home would prove to be the brother of such an angel. Seph had to wonder at that moment why such a man, if he looked as his sister did, would hide behind a mask. Still he would not relent. He had the advantage though he was somewhat stumbled by the moment he continued as a true predator after prey.*
Seph: I know of him. He and I have made war before. Though I admit I held back in our last meeting. Perhaps it was because I sensed there was more behind his eyes. Had I known that his sister was the personification of a goddess I would have taken more precaution.
*She smiled at him her eyes soft and calm.*
Maria: I am Maria.
Seph: I, my dear lady, am Sephiroth du Lac.
*With that he tipped a bow and drew his hand forth. Like the ladies of old she slipped it in his gloved mit and he kissed her gentle hand. He drew away once more and the woman looked at him kindly.*
Maria: I have heard of you. They say you think yourself to be a vampire.
Seph: What men say of me I do not care. I am what I am.
Maria: And what is that?
Seph: A champion. Jealous tongues wag but in this belt they are silenced.
Maria: Is that all you are?
Seph: I am but a man who's words leave him in the presence of your beauty.
*They stood in silence and in that silence was the beginning of her downfall....
... She fought the memory, trying to not let it sweep her away. She looked at him with gentle eyes holding the glass still as he withdrew. Even now she was trying to right his wrongs. Trying to validate his coldness. She sighed gently in a low if desperate sigh.*
Maria: Will you be home after the match?
*Seph did not look up merely adjusting his collar a bit as he fluffed the ruffles of his wrists.*
Seph: Perhaps. I haven't decided yet. I might stay for a day or so. That is all. I have some interviews to do after the match contracts to sign.
Maria: I see...
Seph: Besides, I have to see Valek before I go. We have 'business' to discuss. So I'll be stopping by the club.
Maria: I see.. that is... good, mi amor. Very... good.
*She seemed listless as he stared at her in confusion as her mind blanked for a moment to another time...
... to the first time she stepped in that club. That awful awful club a simple woman, a beautiful latino woman that NCW fans had come to know all to well. The beautiful sister of Tempestad, Maria. She steps forward like a lost lamb. Her fingers toying with her nails. Her nervousness apparent as he steps toward her moving through the numerous masses. When he reaches her she looks at him in sudden surprise and then a smile of relief graces her face that melts Seph to his very core.*
Maria: Señor du Lac, it is good to see you.
Seph: As it is you, my dear. What are you doing in a godless place like this?
Maria: Adios mio, my friend, Alicia, dragged me here. I've been trying to convince her to come back to the cloth. I fear my efforts have been in vain.
Seph: Where is she?
*Maria pointed to a darkened corner of the room and Seph looked. Seeing a beautiful blond haired woman standing in full leather garb. She raises a hand to a stranger clad in black and Seph notes the puncture wounds upon her wrist. Four of them evenly placed. A scene all to familiar to the jaded vampire. He turned to Maria and with a soft voice of comfort spoke to her.*
Seph: I fear you are right. But have faith not all can be called to the kingdom.
Maria: I fear my own path is marred by failure.
Seph: You mustn't give up. To concede is worse than failure.
*She looks at him with soft eyes shining with a pleasant comfort.*
Maria: Why do you come here?
*Seph just smiles guiltily and chuckles a bit at the question.*
Seph: I... um... own this place.
*She chuckles at his sudden embarrassment and smirks at him.*
Maria: I see... well it is very... nice.
Seph: Really?
*She bursts out laughing and shakes her head*
Maria: No, not really.
*Seph clutches his heart mockingly.*
Seph: Ouch, you wound me with your words, dear Maria. Still I can see your distaste for such a place. Your outfit is somewhat ill fitting.
*She adjusts her top a bit as Seph stares at her flesh practically pouring out of her top.*
Maria: It is a bit tight.
*Seph tries to not look and turns his head as she shifts and as he does he sees Alicia pointing to them and a single pale figure looking at them. Seph's eyes shift a bit and the other man's shift as well. Seph's face grows stern and he grips the title close. A show of bravado in subtle movements. She looks up noticing his attention elsewhere. She traces it back to Alicia and looks to him in a soft glance.*
Maria: She is beautiful isn't she?
Seph: Huh? Who?
Maria: Were you not glancing at Alicia?
Seph: Who? Oh, your friend... she is quite stunning. But pale in comparison with the light from your star.
*She smiles at Seph as he looks in her eyes.*
Maria: You flatter me again, Señor.
Seph: I say nothing that is not truth. Your light blinds me in this dark place.
*She blushes and turns away as a new song suddenly begins to play, "Face to Face" by Siouxsie and the Banshees... ... Seph smiled as the song came on then looked back at the man in the corner. Suddenly he saw two others behind him draped in darkness watching him as he stood as if challenging. Seph just snarled a bit then looked softly at her.*
Seph: Would you care to dance?
Maria: What? Now?
Seph: Why not?
*She smiled at him and looked at him curiously. He gently bowed to her offering his hand to her. She smiled as if a small girl being asked by prince charming to dance. She took his hand and he kissed it before drawing her near and dancing right there in the entrance way. She smiled and sighed softly.*
Maria: You make me feel different, do you know that?
Seph: I do?
Maria: Mmhmm... your unlike any man I have ever known.
*Seph smiled a bit at that and she at him. His eyes shifted for the briefest of moments noticing the previous man in the corner slowly sit back down. Seph just smiled and nodded to him then looked at her once more.*
Seph: You are a light in a dark and weary world, Maria. One of God's most precious creatures. Your brother is lucky to have you.
Maria: Sometimes I feel eclipsed by him. He is always so brave and I... I am so timid.
Seph: You are braver then you know, Maria. Your being here proves that.
Maria: I am no warrior like he is. Nor you are. Facing opponents every week. Sometimes two. Possibly being ambushed each week. Everyday is an adventure for you.
Seph: A child of God seeks not adventure but merely the warmth of God's love. Perhaps your heart is telling you something.
Maria: I... I don't know. So much of my life is there. Maybe... I don't know. I...
*Seph placed a finger gently upon her lips and smiled at her. A reassuring smile like that of a father to a child or a lover to his bride.*
Seph: Shhhh... let thoughts not trouble you. Tonight there is only this moment. This dance. Let us enjoy the moment for tomorrow who knows what things may come.
*The thoughts that troubled her now made all that she knew then obsolete. Once she was a good woman. Kind, merciful, god-fearing. Had he taken that away or had she? Had she given up on so much? The humanity she once held. How long till she too grew cold and distant. Another year? Two years? Ten? A hundred? How long till even her daughter meant nothing to her then another sack of blood. Still he was not completely gone. She knew that. At times he showed it. Warm. Kind. Endearing. But just as much lately he had been cruel, evil, malicious. Had he always truly been this way? No... no... that was not her, Amor. The weight of the world was on him. A match against a champion... it was what he lived for. She looked at him desperate to see his kind eyes. the eyes she fell in love with instead the eyes looked weary and tired with a glaze of some profound frustration. maybe even madness. She shrunk from those eyes despite herself.*
Seph: Is something wrong, dear?
Maria: N-no... nothing, mi amor.
*She hugged herself rocking a bit trying to relieve the fear. Retreating into her memory...
... The memory drifts to that first date. The first time they were a couple. Both of them sitting awkwardly in silence. Seph looks at her with a silent pleasant smile and she with awkward clumsy glances sits in silence. Neither sure what to say to the other. Neither sure what to do. Finally as a waiter passes by Maria coughs breaking the silence. Quickly she reaches for a glass of water and Seph just grins at her. She starts to laugh nearly coughing up her water as she sets down her glass.*
Maria: WHAT? What is so funny?
Seph: I'm sorry. It's nothing. I was just thinking of the situation. I mean we've talked before and now here we are sitting across from one another unsure of what to say? I mean it's silly. Children behave this way.
*She smiles shyly, her face locked in a smile*
Maria: Your right. I'm sorry. I just don't know what we should talk about. I mean after Sunday night...
*She stops putting her fingers to her lips as if to draw the words back to her lips but the damage was done. Seph sighed letting his head drop a bit but he looks up at her and smiles pleasantly enough.*
Seph: It's okay. I was tired after the match was all.
Maria: Are you hurt?
Seph: Me? I am fine.
*Maria looks at him with a conspiratory glance. She leans in as if she did not want others to hear.*
Maria: You know of what I mean.
*Seph looks down and glances back up before grasping the glass of red wine before him from the table. His face seems lost as if trying to remember some great torment.*
Seph: No, to be honest I'm not. I saw his promotion today. The smug look on his face holding MY title. Touting all that nonsense about how he respects me. I was merely a hurdle for him to overcome. Makes me sick to my stomach seeing his filthy undeserving hands gripping...
*He glances over in mid sentence as she softly slips her hand over his. Seph sighs apologetically.*
Seph: I'm sorry. I shouldn't speak of such things.
Maria: It's okay. I know how much it meant to you.
Seph: It's more than that. That title was all I had.
Maria: Have you no family?
*Seph smiled to himself chuckling lightly.*
Seph: Just my brother and he isn't even my brother by blood. Just some idiot who adopted my name.
Maria: I have heard you have a daughter.
*Seph shakes his head and sighs*
Seph: Adopted only. She moves around a lot. I hardly see her unless she's home.
Maria: So, who do you go home to?
*Seph awkwardly plays with the stem of his wine glass looking at it softly, thoughtfully, as he talks about his private life.*
Seph: An empty house and tattered memories.
*Maria looks into his eyes as she speaks. Her eyes filled with caring and genuine concern.*
Maria: You sound so sad when you say that.
*Seph just absent mindedly speaks softly.*
Seph: Do I?
Maria: Sí, sé usted siente. I only have my brother. He's my family but sometimes he makes me so mad. Sometimes I wish I could be like you. Sometimes I think it would be better to be alone.
*Seph smiled softly and looked at her placing his own hand on top of the hand that comforted him.*
Seph: Maria, you do not need to be alone. You merely need something more. I know what it is to live in someone's shadow. To be overwhelmed by the legend of another. You must forge your own path.
Maria: It's just that sometimes I feel like I am missing out and to be honest things are boring in the convent. Sometimes I feel I want more out of life.
Seph: The only one that can change things is you, Maria.
Maria: But I will disappoint all the people counting on me. Father Sapienza, mi hermano, the mother superior...
*Seph sighs grasping her hand and looking into her eyes deeply. The two's eyes meet and in them Maria sees the caring in his eyes.*
Seph: Maria, sometimes in order to save ourselves certain sacrifices must be made. If your family truly loves you they will understand. Sometimes we must be cruel to further greater kindness. Do you understand?
*She smiles softly at his warm advice but her thoughts linger to him himself.*
Maria: Have you made such sacrifices, Señor du Lac?
Seph: I have... and they have made all the difference.
*She smiles coyly at him. Her eyes fluttering a bit from his response...
... The sacrifices he made. Was she one now? Was she one more sacrifice to cast aside for his own pursuits. He was always motivated. He always wanted the title. Any title. Proof, vindication that all the sacrifices were somehow worth it. No, this was the man that saved her. That when Karras came and whipped her with a scourge he ran to help her. When others mocked their love and questioned it he stayed true she wasn't sure why but she knew who he really was. What man he had been... once... so long ago.*
Maria: Mi amor?
*He looked up and as he did her eyes met his. She looked and almost forced herself to see the spark in him. The life she had fallen in love with. She looked and a brief smile graced his face.*
Seph: What? What is it?
Maria: I... I just will miss you. I will miss you this week.
*He dropped his head away from her looking away. He was hiding something. She didn't know what but he was and suddenly she saw the truth... that look was gone. His loving gaze no longer looked to her...
... Seph looked at a nice fresh empty glass then looked up at Maria and the doctor talking. Distracted. With a quick pouring from his hand the red dripping liquid poured into the empty glass and with a singular motion he brought his hand again to his lips. With a snakelike demeanor his tongue darted out sliding like a blade against the wound upon his hand. In an instant it was gone, it's only trace in the glass before him as with his other hand he poured a snifter of brandy wine. He then picked it up as the doctor walked out nodding to Maria. Seph could feel this was the moment. This was what he needed to take. He walked to her and as he did a weak smile graced her face but Seph looked at it with mixed feelings both of sorrow for the pain she was in but also joy at the recovery that awaited her. He forced a smile at her and nodded.*
Seph: How are you?
*Maria only nodded meekly. Her face sweating with the severity of the fever.*
Maria: El buen doctor says that I may take weeks to heal. She's hoping the antibiotics will work tonight though. She said my fever is dangerous.
Seph: That it is. I would see that it subside as well. When I was living, my mother would give me brandy wine to help me. I think it could help you too.
*Seph held out the glass with a quiet optimism. Maria looked at it wearily though and began to politely decline.*
Maria: No puedo, mi amor. I do not drink.
*Seph looked at her disappointed but quickly played into her. His voice lilted playfully, like that of a playful parent urging their children to try medicine.*
Seph: Please, it may help. Besides I want to help you.
*Maria saw the sincerity in his eyes, felt it in his voice and nodded consenting as painfully she reached up to the cup.*
Maria: Alright, mi amor. For you.
*With that she took the glass and Seph watched anxiously. Maria stared at it her eyes examining as if looking for something in it...
... She knew what depths the monster would sink for what he wanted. But it had always been balanced by that gentleness. By that kindness he always had. She wondered how long it had been gone. had it left when she ran the first time? When he found her again? Was it someone else? Something else? Was it the title that he had been obsessing over or maybe... maybe it was just that he had never cared... no... something was wrong. Something was wrong. She had to believe that. She had to hold on to that thought. Even if it was a lie. For she was alone now. Truly alone. No hermano. A baby to look after. She needed it to be all her imagination. All a lie. but the truth stared her in the face clear as day. He didn't love her anymore.*
Seph: Listen, maybe... maybe I'll try and get home early. I'm sure the meetings can wait.
*The look in his eyes grew gentle and a spark, a sudden spark, a light in the darkness of his countenance and she rose then and kissed him. A small act made larger by the memory that came in that kiss...
... two nervous people. A man in his best. A woman in hers standing at an altar speaking from they're heart. *
Maria: We have been through so much. Good times and bad. Sorrow and joy. And through it all you have been my angel. Love has given us both wings to soar, and our journey begins today, Sephiroth, wherever the wind may carry me, I will stay by your side as your wife, Take this ring as a sign of my love, my faith, and my devotion.
*With that she places the ring upon his finger and he smiles at her as lovingly she holds his hand. He then takes his ring and holds it before her his eyes filled with a mixture of emotions.*
Seph: So many nights I sat alone. I sat in darkness and searched but I could not find the light. You have become the beacon to which I live. You are the light I search for in dark times and in you I place all my hopes and dreams. Where there has been cold, you have brought warmth; where my life was dark, you have brought light. Maria, I pledge before this assembled company to be your husband from this day forward. Let us make of our two lives, one life, and let us always honor and respect each other.
*With that he places the ring upon her hand and the two stare in devotion to one another. Father Sapienza rises back to the podium and with outstretched hands he signals to the congregation to stand. All stand and Seph and Maria look up at him.*
Father Sapienza: What God has joined together let no man put asunder.
*And thus we are left with this a memory drifting into reality. Two people holding hands in a photo and two figures reflected in it's glass as he and her share a tender moment. But how much is simple nostalgia and how much is desperation? We are left wondering this question as the scene fades to black.*