Used to people slowing down for him Ambrose mentally sighed, he hated it, but there was no way around it so he just accepted it. At least things were better than they had been. Before the prosthetic, he'd been essentially helpless; on his best days he'd been very -very- slow.
Some days he might have snapped at anyone, no matter who they were, who pointed out his weakness, but seeing Ysabel blush, even slightly Ambrose just couldn't bring himself to be offended. Hell she was even more appealing when she blushed, and he believed her when she said she didn't mean to be rude.
"No, it's not a problem at all. I'm just slower than your average Joe but nothing to worry about."
He'd be very disappointed if she wanted to call a cab, and hoped he wasn't misreading any signals. Was she trying to ditch him, had he been too forward? By his usual standards Ambrose had been a perfect gentleman tonight, but maybe that was too dull for her.
Deciding he'd get a headache if he kept those thoughts up he brushed them aside.
"Unless you'd prefer a ride? But I was hoping we might enjoy the evening a little more."
A Little Take-Out (attn: Ambrose)
Ysabel had been a little surprised when Ambrose offered to escort her out of Vesper. She'd thought he'd been withdrawn while they'd chatted with Aaron and Yuu and she hadn't really been sure why, but this confirmed her suspicions that perhaps he was just shy in larger groups. She adjusted the pace of her gait to match his slower one, not minding at all. Perhaps he might be able to oblige her with a snack after all.
They finally stood just outside Vesper, and Ysabel found herself torn between good manners and better manners. On the one hand, it would be rude to mention Ambrose's injured leg, but on the other she hardly wanted him to feel obliged to walk her home if it would cause him discomfort. They could always take a cab.
Finally, concern for his comfort won out over concern for his pride and she looked up at him questioningly.
"I don't mean to be rude," even just saying that she felt her cheeks color a bit, "but...well, I see you've injured your leg and I don't want you to go to any trouble, Mister Ambrose. It's not a very long walk to our condo, but we could call a cab."
Ysabel thought it was quite kind of him to offer to see her home, and somewhere in the back of her head she considered the fact that Dayle probably wasn't opposed to take-out. Or free delivery.
Ambrose
18 years ago
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel smiled at her companion and shook her head. "I rather like walking, and it isn't very far," she admitted. She was actually happy to have to slow down a bit, for she wasn't in much hurry to get home. She had a lot to do, yes, but she was enjoying Ambrose's company. His shifts between 'friendly and outgoing' and 'withdrawn and brooding' were intrguing, and she wasn't offended by that in the slightest. It was more that she considered it a skill, digging underneath someone's exterior and finding out what lay beneath.
So, even though it might have been a little forward of her, Ysabel looked up at Ambrose (and up! He was taller than most of the men she knew, though not a giant by any standards), and asked with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, "So what exactly is it you do here in Nachton, aside from playing the gallant escort?"
So, even though it might have been a little forward of her, Ysabel looked up at Ambrose (and up! He was taller than most of the men she knew, though not a giant by any standards), and asked with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, "So what exactly is it you do here in Nachton, aside from playing the gallant escort?"
Ambrose
18 years ago
She wasn't short, not really, but it was oddly endearing when she looked up at him. She was a first class flirt, and he didn't mind one single bit, it was a great game.
"No playing involved, I don't often get to be gallant or an escort so I'm relishing the opportunity."
As he'd done in the garden when introduced, he bowed low enough to kiss her hand. He was slightly less formal this time, a deep low bow was difficult for him, he worried about losing his balance.
He was having some trouble remaining formal, she was more than a little tempting, especially with that glint of trouble in her eye.
"Nachton is a handy middle ground right now. Most of my work is on the east coast these days and I just got tired of flying in from California all the time, so I moved here. I'd imagine your reason for being new in town is more interesting."
"No playing involved, I don't often get to be gallant or an escort so I'm relishing the opportunity."
As he'd done in the garden when introduced, he bowed low enough to kiss her hand. He was slightly less formal this time, a deep low bow was difficult for him, he worried about losing his balance.
He was having some trouble remaining formal, she was more than a little tempting, especially with that glint of trouble in her eye.
"Nachton is a handy middle ground right now. Most of my work is on the east coast these days and I just got tired of flying in from California all the time, so I moved here. I'd imagine your reason for being new in town is more interesting."
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel graciously curtsied when he bowed, the very picture of propriety until she let slip a somewhat impish smile. So, he was a bit of a rogue after all. Be that as it may, she certainly wasn't about to fall head over heels for the first man she met in this new city. Even if he was fairly charming and more than easy on the eyes.
It didn't escape her notice that he'd managed to dodge the question of his employment yet again. She shot him a curious glance but didn't press. She would get it out of him sooner or later. Instead she just shook her head, sending her hair rippling all down the back of her heavy cloak.
"My reason actually isn't very interesting at all," she admitted. "My sister took a job here and she and I have always been close. I moved with her, and took my job at the historical society. I've bought a small piece of property on the border of the city as well."
That was all she was going to give him, until he coughed up another tidbit. Ysabel could hardly be irritated though, not when the give-and-take of their game was such fun. They were passing a little coffee shop and Ysabel glanced over at it. She wasn't quite ready to relinquish her new friend yet. Ambrose had been quick on the uptake so far; perhaps he'd catch her glance. If not, she might consider pulling him that way anyhow.
And wouldn't Dayle be amused if she came home with only a short list of what restaurants were good, and with a man on her arm to boot? She'd never hear the end of it. That was what sisters were for though. She would delight in any grief Dayle chose to give.
It didn't escape her notice that he'd managed to dodge the question of his employment yet again. She shot him a curious glance but didn't press. She would get it out of him sooner or later. Instead she just shook her head, sending her hair rippling all down the back of her heavy cloak.
"My reason actually isn't very interesting at all," she admitted. "My sister took a job here and she and I have always been close. I moved with her, and took my job at the historical society. I've bought a small piece of property on the border of the city as well."
That was all she was going to give him, until he coughed up another tidbit. Ysabel could hardly be irritated though, not when the give-and-take of their game was such fun. They were passing a little coffee shop and Ysabel glanced over at it. She wasn't quite ready to relinquish her new friend yet. Ambrose had been quick on the uptake so far; perhaps he'd catch her glance. If not, she might consider pulling him that way anyhow.
And wouldn't Dayle be amused if she came home with only a short list of what restaurants were good, and with a man on her arm to boot? She'd never hear the end of it. That was what sisters were for though. She would delight in any grief Dayle chose to give.
Ambrose
18 years ago
"Your sister? Really?"
Of course that didn't mean she was human, although Ambrose felt that made it more likely. While working out the answer to that question he had gotten rather quite and realized with a start he'd been silent just a little too long.
"Its nice you two are so close though."
She did send out signals didn't she? He'd caught her glance at the coffee shop and decided to see if he'd interpreted it right.
"Maybe I could buy you a coffee and you can tell me about your property?"
If she were playing this like he thought she was it would be a challenge. Ysabel didn't give anything away, but he was having a fine time trying to chase things down.
Of course that didn't mean she was human, although Ambrose felt that made it more likely. While working out the answer to that question he had gotten rather quite and realized with a start he'd been silent just a little too long.
"Its nice you two are so close though."
She did send out signals didn't she? He'd caught her glance at the coffee shop and decided to see if he'd interpreted it right.
"Maybe I could buy you a coffee and you can tell me about your property?"
If she were playing this like he thought she was it would be a challenge. Ysabel didn't give anything away, but he was having a fine time trying to chase things down.
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel silently applauded. The man was observant enough! She appeared to give his suggestion all due consideration before acquiescing with a nod. "I do need to get home and do some unpacking before I go to sleep, but something hot sounds wonderful."
As they entered the shop, heralded by the ringing of a small bell, she gave a little wave of her hand. "To be honest, I haven't yet seen the property, save a picture or two. Our family's broker arranged for its purchase to fit my needs. I do need to go inspect it soon."
Ysabel ordered a mug of tea instead of coffee, just for the sake of keeping up appearances. She liked both, and what she would order depended heavily upon her mood. She waited patiently while it was prepared, turning to Ambrose once again.
"What about yourself? Is your family back in California? They must miss you."
She accepted her mug from the woman behind the counter, wrapping her hands around it; it had gotten slightly chillier as the twilight had faded to night. Turning to survey the inside of the little cafe she noted it was small and intimate, and not too crowded. Dimly lit, too. That was always a source of some worry for her, but the lighting here was low enough to cause no concern.
She lifted an eyebrow at Ambrose, looking back over her shoulder. "Or perhaps you brought your family along too, as I did? I can't imagine what might be a strong enough motivator for me to have left them all and gone off on my own."
As they entered the shop, heralded by the ringing of a small bell, she gave a little wave of her hand. "To be honest, I haven't yet seen the property, save a picture or two. Our family's broker arranged for its purchase to fit my needs. I do need to go inspect it soon."
Ysabel ordered a mug of tea instead of coffee, just for the sake of keeping up appearances. She liked both, and what she would order depended heavily upon her mood. She waited patiently while it was prepared, turning to Ambrose once again.
"What about yourself? Is your family back in California? They must miss you."
She accepted her mug from the woman behind the counter, wrapping her hands around it; it had gotten slightly chillier as the twilight had faded to night. Turning to survey the inside of the little cafe she noted it was small and intimate, and not too crowded. Dimly lit, too. That was always a source of some worry for her, but the lighting here was low enough to cause no concern.
She lifted an eyebrow at Ambrose, looking back over her shoulder. "Or perhaps you brought your family along too, as I did? I can't imagine what might be a strong enough motivator for me to have left them all and gone off on my own."
Ambrose
18 years ago
He almost laughed when she considered the idea of stopping. It had been her idea, even though she'd let him suggest it; since the stop had been 'his' suggestion Ambrose held the door open for her.
It struck him as very odd or reckless to buy property without seeing it first. However, if she was from England it would also be very difficult to personally check the place out.
"You've got a lot of faith in your broker. What do you plan on doing with the land?"
She sure didn't seem like a farmer and if she had a condo in town what would she need land for?
Ambrose ordered a plain black coffee, no not the special blend they had today and no nothing in it, just black coffee. Once they both had their drink he scouted location and settled on a small booth about the middle of the shop; far enough back to be quiet, but not so far back that he could be accused of being improper.
The idea of his family brought and odd smile. He had no idea what happened to his mortal ties. He was probably a great uncle several times over, but he'd never really thought about it.
"Oh I don't think they miss me too much. We lost touch years ago, had a bit of a falling out I guess you'd call it and I couldn't tell you what's happened to any of them."
It struck him as very odd or reckless to buy property without seeing it first. However, if she was from England it would also be very difficult to personally check the place out.
"You've got a lot of faith in your broker. What do you plan on doing with the land?"
She sure didn't seem like a farmer and if she had a condo in town what would she need land for?
Ambrose ordered a plain black coffee, no not the special blend they had today and no nothing in it, just black coffee. Once they both had their drink he scouted location and settled on a small booth about the middle of the shop; far enough back to be quiet, but not so far back that he could be accused of being improper.
The idea of his family brought and odd smile. He had no idea what happened to his mortal ties. He was probably a great uncle several times over, but he'd never really thought about it.
"Oh I don't think they miss me too much. We lost touch years ago, had a bit of a falling out I guess you'd call it and I couldn't tell you what's happened to any of them."
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel's brow furrowed at Ambrose's casual remark. "We do have a lot of faith in our broker," she said. "He's been with our family for years." Lots of them; he was one of Richard's familiars. Ysabel couldn't say so of course, so she settled for a smile as she accompanied Ambrose to a small table. "We trust him, and he knows what I need."
It was the mention of what she planned on doing with the property that caused her to drop her guard a bit; Ysabel's horses were more than a hobby for her. She adored them and could never have considered moving to Nachton without them.
"I breed horses," she said, her face animated. "I have three mares, a Friesian, a Thoroughbred, and an Arabian. In addition I have three riding horses of my own. They should be here within the next couple of weeks."
Perhaps it was about then that she ceased to think of Ambrose as much of a snack at all. The idea had been tosing about in her head since he'd approached her in the Garden, and now it just flitted away. Ysabel couldn't explain why, but whatever the reason, she liked Ambrose and found herself losing interest in playing her own game just for the sake of it.
When he mentioned his family, she tilted her head. "How could they not miss you? You're a family. Dayle and I don't always agree, but I don't know what I would do without her. Mother and father, too."
She wanted to know more, but had to concede this round to Ambrose. He was quite adept at dodging any real answers, which was frustrating once she really decided she wanted them for more than the sake of small talk. Ysabel continued to sip at her tea, though, patient even in her impatience.
It was the mention of what she planned on doing with the property that caused her to drop her guard a bit; Ysabel's horses were more than a hobby for her. She adored them and could never have considered moving to Nachton without them.
"I breed horses," she said, her face animated. "I have three mares, a Friesian, a Thoroughbred, and an Arabian. In addition I have three riding horses of my own. They should be here within the next couple of weeks."
Perhaps it was about then that she ceased to think of Ambrose as much of a snack at all. The idea had been tosing about in her head since he'd approached her in the Garden, and now it just flitted away. Ysabel couldn't explain why, but whatever the reason, she liked Ambrose and found herself losing interest in playing her own game just for the sake of it.
When he mentioned his family, she tilted her head. "How could they not miss you? You're a family. Dayle and I don't always agree, but I don't know what I would do without her. Mother and father, too."
She wanted to know more, but had to concede this round to Ambrose. He was quite adept at dodging any real answers, which was frustrating once she really decided she wanted them for more than the sake of small talk. Ysabel continued to sip at her tea, though, patient even in her impatience.
Ambrose
18 years ago
Apparently, he'd said something wrong when he mentioned the broker. He hadn't meant to offend or disparage the agent involved, it just seemed to him that it would take a lot of faith. Rather than press the issue or try and explain himself he let the subject drop, merely nodding in acknowledgment.
He'd almost laughed when she asked how his family could not miss him. He could hardly say 'Well since they've all been dead for probably 100 years or so it would be hard to miss me. How to explain it without going into detail?
"I'd imagine that at least my mother and sister miss me, but its been long enough that they're probably used to my being gone and even if I did see them again it would just cause problems, my father and brother weren't any too happy with me when I left."
There that was accurate, if he had gone back during their life times that is what the situation would have been.
But the horses were much more interesting, especially Ysabel's apparent passion for them. Ambrose had been a fine horseman, but hadn't ridden since he'd lost his leg, he'd always wound up in a wagon or taking the train since then. It was the appearance of the car and automatic transmissions that had given him back his freedom.
He missed being on a horse though, he'd had the pleasure of having several good horses and one or two really fine ones in his mortal life. None too highly bread, but excellent nonetheless.
"Quite the range there, I've never know anyone to specialize in more than one breed, I'd imagine it's a bit of a challenge for you. But only mares, no stallions? Do you keep the foals or sell them?"
He'd almost laughed when she asked how his family could not miss him. He could hardly say 'Well since they've all been dead for probably 100 years or so it would be hard to miss me. How to explain it without going into detail?
"I'd imagine that at least my mother and sister miss me, but its been long enough that they're probably used to my being gone and even if I did see them again it would just cause problems, my father and brother weren't any too happy with me when I left."
There that was accurate, if he had gone back during their life times that is what the situation would have been.
But the horses were much more interesting, especially Ysabel's apparent passion for them. Ambrose had been a fine horseman, but hadn't ridden since he'd lost his leg, he'd always wound up in a wagon or taking the train since then. It was the appearance of the car and automatic transmissions that had given him back his freedom.
He missed being on a horse though, he'd had the pleasure of having several good horses and one or two really fine ones in his mortal life. None too highly bread, but excellent nonetheless.
"Quite the range there, I've never know anyone to specialize in more than one breed, I'd imagine it's a bit of a challenge for you. But only mares, no stallions? Do you keep the foals or sell them?"
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel didn't know Ambrose well enough to make assumptions regarding his family, so she just nodded when he spoke of them. To her, family was akin to blood, in every sense of the word. They had always been together. Even with Richard and Elsa still in England they still expected to communicate regularly. They'd been through so many long years together, Ysabel could not imagine what she would do without them.
Ambrose seemed to know at least something about horses in general, a bit of a surprise as he had been so close-mouthed about himself thus far. Ysabel had the feeling that perhaps the way to get him to open up was to do the same, herself. So she smiled brightly and addressed his questions in order. It never took much for her to talk about her horses, anyway.
"My father maintains a far larger stable, mostly populated with Friesians," she said. "I enjoy all breeds though, and as it's mostly a hobby for me I have been experimenting with crossbreeds. That's why I've one of each. I don't maintain a large enough operation to keep both mares and stallions; it can be difficult, keeping both together. A great deal of room is required; you understand... so many ah, unaltered males in close proximity to females..."
Ysabel tried to keep it completely impartial, but she really couldn't stop the slight flush creeping up her cheeks at the discussion of such a topic with a member of the opposite sex who was neither her father nor one of their stable managers. She forged on gamely, however. "In addition, it can be difficult to obtain, er, a specimen from a registered Friesian in order to crossbreed. Many owners are very concerned with keeping the breed pure. Therefore all of my samples are taken from my father's stock. He has promised to ship it to me here so that I can continue my breeding from Nachton."
She was a little self-conscious of having droned on and on, and on such a topic... but rather than leave one of his questions unanswered, she finished off by saying, "I sell most of the foals. I've only kept one or two that have been particularly dear. They will stay with my parents, tohugh, and finish their training with the exception of my personal mount who will come over with the others."
Ysabel figured if that didn't scare him off, she might have found a new friend indeed. She hadn't met many men who could listen to her babble on about breeding horses without some level of eye-glazing, but Ambrose seemed to be doing quite well so far.
Ambrose seemed to know at least something about horses in general, a bit of a surprise as he had been so close-mouthed about himself thus far. Ysabel had the feeling that perhaps the way to get him to open up was to do the same, herself. So she smiled brightly and addressed his questions in order. It never took much for her to talk about her horses, anyway.
"My father maintains a far larger stable, mostly populated with Friesians," she said. "I enjoy all breeds though, and as it's mostly a hobby for me I have been experimenting with crossbreeds. That's why I've one of each. I don't maintain a large enough operation to keep both mares and stallions; it can be difficult, keeping both together. A great deal of room is required; you understand... so many ah, unaltered males in close proximity to females..."
Ysabel tried to keep it completely impartial, but she really couldn't stop the slight flush creeping up her cheeks at the discussion of such a topic with a member of the opposite sex who was neither her father nor one of their stable managers. She forged on gamely, however. "In addition, it can be difficult to obtain, er, a specimen from a registered Friesian in order to crossbreed. Many owners are very concerned with keeping the breed pure. Therefore all of my samples are taken from my father's stock. He has promised to ship it to me here so that I can continue my breeding from Nachton."
She was a little self-conscious of having droned on and on, and on such a topic... but rather than leave one of his questions unanswered, she finished off by saying, "I sell most of the foals. I've only kept one or two that have been particularly dear. They will stay with my parents, tohugh, and finish their training with the exception of my personal mount who will come over with the others."
Ysabel figured if that didn't scare him off, she might have found a new friend indeed. She hadn't met many men who could listen to her babble on about breeding horses without some level of eye-glazing, but Ambrose seemed to be doing quite well so far.
Ambrose
18 years ago
She'd just watched he and Aaron dance around each other, and she asked if he understood about keeping males in close proximity. He couldn't help it, he laughed. Truthfully, Ambrose wasn't certain why he'd been so prickly about Aaron's presence. He didn't usually get attached to humans but found Ysabel to be something a little on the special side and hadn't appreciated being interrupted.
The slight flush made her seem vulnerable, just for that second, it was as if she was doing something highly improper by talking about breeding horses with him.
"I wouldn't have thought to cross breed a Friesian, mammoth creatures. I can see where you might get some interesting results with a thoroughbred though, the foal being a little sleeker but having the same style. But I wouldn't even want to guess what the results would be with an Arab. The breeds are nearly opposite. Have you had much luck?"
Sarah's father had been managed one of the livery stables in town and had done some breeding of his own. He'd also imported some more pedigreed and more rare animals for those who had the money to want them. There hadn't been much call for that in Tombstone, but the stable had also been a stopping point for such horses on the way to San Francisco or other richer cities. So he knew enough to keep up a good conversation, but was by no means an expert.
"How did you get involved in such a hobby?"
The slight flush made her seem vulnerable, just for that second, it was as if she was doing something highly improper by talking about breeding horses with him.
"I wouldn't have thought to cross breed a Friesian, mammoth creatures. I can see where you might get some interesting results with a thoroughbred though, the foal being a little sleeker but having the same style. But I wouldn't even want to guess what the results would be with an Arab. The breeds are nearly opposite. Have you had much luck?"
Sarah's father had been managed one of the livery stables in town and had done some breeding of his own. He'd also imported some more pedigreed and more rare animals for those who had the money to want them. There hadn't been much call for that in Tombstone, but the stable had also been a stopping point for such horses on the way to San Francisco or other richer cities. So he knew enough to keep up a good conversation, but was by no means an expert.
"How did you get involved in such a hobby?"
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel was in high spirits. If there was one thing that made her lose all pretense of formality, it was a good bit of horse-talk. Ambrose's words made her smile grow.
"I don't know that I would call them 'mammoth,' she said, with a little wince at being even slightly disagreeable. "Compared to most draft breeds Friesians are remarkably delicate. So far, they've crossed beautifully with my mares, although one foal doesn't necessarily have the traits of the next. The Arab cross may have been the best so far, actually. She was a very small filly, only about fourteen hands and change, but she had the structure of a Friesian, right down to the feathered legs. She's still back in England. My father is training her to drive."
Ysabel's mind still lingered on her companion though... Friesians as a breed were just beginning to get popular in America, if she recalled her journals correctly. So Ambrose must have more than a simple working knowledge. So far, he'd expressed more wisdom on the topic than she'd expect from the average human.
She lifted her shoulders at his next question. "We've always had horses. It is only natural for me to have something to do with them. Like my family, they've always been a part of my life."
All six hundred years of it!
"What about yourself? You have a great deal of knowledge on the topic." As he had been reluctant to talk about himself thus far, she left it here... but Ysabel wasn't about to let him think she'd forgotten about his strange reluctance.
"I don't know that I would call them 'mammoth,' she said, with a little wince at being even slightly disagreeable. "Compared to most draft breeds Friesians are remarkably delicate. So far, they've crossed beautifully with my mares, although one foal doesn't necessarily have the traits of the next. The Arab cross may have been the best so far, actually. She was a very small filly, only about fourteen hands and change, but she had the structure of a Friesian, right down to the feathered legs. She's still back in England. My father is training her to drive."
Ysabel's mind still lingered on her companion though... Friesians as a breed were just beginning to get popular in America, if she recalled her journals correctly. So Ambrose must have more than a simple working knowledge. So far, he'd expressed more wisdom on the topic than she'd expect from the average human.
She lifted her shoulders at his next question. "We've always had horses. It is only natural for me to have something to do with them. Like my family, they've always been a part of my life."
All six hundred years of it!
"What about yourself? You have a great deal of knowledge on the topic." As he had been reluctant to talk about himself thus far, she left it here... but Ysabel wasn't about to let him think she'd forgotten about his strange reluctance.
Ambrose
18 years ago
"All right, I'll give you that. They're mammoth depending on what you compare them to."
He'd have brushed up on the topic of horses if he'd known she'd be avidly interested in them. As it was, he was learning on the fly, even if she didn't realize it.
From what she'd said about England, brokers and having been around horses, all her life he placed her as the moneyed sort. Could you ask a nice upper class British gal out and show up in a pick up truck, a nice one but a truck. At least the valets in town hadn't been snobby about parking it so far.
"More of a passing knowledge, I used to be around horses and people who knew about them a lot. Mostly up in San Francisco, quite the horsey set up there, and the Frisians have been taken too by the drivers. They are impressive to look at, I couldn't fault anyone for being fascinated by them."
He'd have brushed up on the topic of horses if he'd known she'd be avidly interested in them. As it was, he was learning on the fly, even if she didn't realize it.
From what she'd said about England, brokers and having been around horses, all her life he placed her as the moneyed sort. Could you ask a nice upper class British gal out and show up in a pick up truck, a nice one but a truck. At least the valets in town hadn't been snobby about parking it so far.
"More of a passing knowledge, I used to be around horses and people who knew about them a lot. Mostly up in San Francisco, quite the horsey set up there, and the Frisians have been taken too by the drivers. They are impressive to look at, I couldn't fault anyone for being fascinated by them."
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel tilted her head slightly. "You used to be around horses? Do you ride?"
How much fun would it be to have met someone with such similar interests on her very first night out? Ambrose was an odd mix of culture to her so far. He seemed somewhat... rough around the edges, her slightly snobbish self supplied. And yet he'd mentioned the opera with a decent amount of knowledge and chatted easily about horses with her.
While on any given day, that strange combination of cultural influences might have made her think she could be dealing with another vampire, she simply couldn't see that as the case. How many vampires injured themselves for any length of time? Ambrose clearly favored his left leg, and the cane he used indicated it was perhaps an ongoing injury... a lengthy recovery or something recurring. That just didn't happen to vampires. Their regenerative capabilities prohibited it.
So Ysabel found herself a little baffled by the man. She couldn't fit him into any one category neatly. Perhaps that was why she was still here talking to him... and having fun.
How much fun would it be to have met someone with such similar interests on her very first night out? Ambrose was an odd mix of culture to her so far. He seemed somewhat... rough around the edges, her slightly snobbish self supplied. And yet he'd mentioned the opera with a decent amount of knowledge and chatted easily about horses with her.
While on any given day, that strange combination of cultural influences might have made her think she could be dealing with another vampire, she simply couldn't see that as the case. How many vampires injured themselves for any length of time? Ambrose clearly favored his left leg, and the cane he used indicated it was perhaps an ongoing injury... a lengthy recovery or something recurring. That just didn't happen to vampires. Their regenerative capabilities prohibited it.
So Ysabel found herself a little baffled by the man. She couldn't fit him into any one category neatly. Perhaps that was why she was still here talking to him... and having fun.
Ambrose
18 years ago
"I used to, but…"
She had been subtle but determined in her questioning of him and so Ambrose figured he would have to admit to his flaw sooner or later; might as well get it out of the way now. With his cane, he tapped what would be his left shin, even through the denim there was a muffled metallic sound. If he'd pulled up the leg of his jeans she'd see that Ambrose hadn't gone in for a cosmetically appealing prosthetic, it was high end but not much to look at.
"I haven't really been able too for a while. I'd probably fall on my ass at this point I'm so out of practice."
He'd tried once after he'd been turned. Between the horse being jumpy, him not being used to his new balance, and it being dark out when the animal spooked he'd not been able to hang on. It wasn't something he was proud of and so never mentioned it.
As it was he hoped the idea of missing a limb didn't put a damper on the evening's company. Every once in a while a woman would find out about his leg and that would be the end of things, unless he changed and used command. Damned good thing he had that or Ambrose was sure he would have staved to death years ago.
She had been subtle but determined in her questioning of him and so Ambrose figured he would have to admit to his flaw sooner or later; might as well get it out of the way now. With his cane, he tapped what would be his left shin, even through the denim there was a muffled metallic sound. If he'd pulled up the leg of his jeans she'd see that Ambrose hadn't gone in for a cosmetically appealing prosthetic, it was high end but not much to look at.
"I haven't really been able too for a while. I'd probably fall on my ass at this point I'm so out of practice."
He'd tried once after he'd been turned. Between the horse being jumpy, him not being used to his new balance, and it being dark out when the animal spooked he'd not been able to hang on. It wasn't something he was proud of and so never mentioned it.
As it was he hoped the idea of missing a limb didn't put a damper on the evening's company. Every once in a while a woman would find out about his leg and that would be the end of things, unless he changed and used command. Damned good thing he had that or Ambrose was sure he would have staved to death years ago.
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel was slightly surprised at the metal sound when Ambrose tapped his leg. It took her a moment to put two and two together and realize the limb was a prosthetic. Two reactions rose to the fore... first, she felt amazingly embarrassed that she'd assumed he'd simply injured it and it would get better. here she'd made it sound like evrything would be fine in a week or so. She could feel herself growing red.
Then she realized he'd made no attempt to disabuse her of the notion when she'd mentioned it as an injury out in front of Vesper. And it didn't seem to bother him then.
Ysabel wasn't sure of the proper way to go on. Did she apologise for her unintentional insensitivity? Or was it really considered insensitivity when she couldn't possibly know?
While she pondered that, she focused on the rest of his words. She didn't know if she was imagining it, but it seemed like he'd enoyed being able to ride. And there wasn't any reason not to, even with a missing leg... or part of a leg, whichever the case was.
"You'd need a different stirrup, that's for sure," she found herself saying, thinking out loud. "A breakaway. Something designed for safety, since you wouldn't be able to move your foot out quickly if something happened."
She thought for another moment. "And, perhaps, an aid for that side. Until you were more comfortable in the amount of pressure you could give with that leg. Something like my crop, perhaps. And naturally, a decent mount. Well-gaited, until you were back in practice enough to handle something more spirited."
With that, she raised her eyebrows at him and said boldly, with perfectly clear double meaning, "Could you handle something more spirited?"
Then she realized he'd made no attempt to disabuse her of the notion when she'd mentioned it as an injury out in front of Vesper. And it didn't seem to bother him then.
Ysabel wasn't sure of the proper way to go on. Did she apologise for her unintentional insensitivity? Or was it really considered insensitivity when she couldn't possibly know?
While she pondered that, she focused on the rest of his words. She didn't know if she was imagining it, but it seemed like he'd enoyed being able to ride. And there wasn't any reason not to, even with a missing leg... or part of a leg, whichever the case was.
"You'd need a different stirrup, that's for sure," she found herself saying, thinking out loud. "A breakaway. Something designed for safety, since you wouldn't be able to move your foot out quickly if something happened."
She thought for another moment. "And, perhaps, an aid for that side. Until you were more comfortable in the amount of pressure you could give with that leg. Something like my crop, perhaps. And naturally, a decent mount. Well-gaited, until you were back in practice enough to handle something more spirited."
With that, she raised her eyebrows at him and said boldly, with perfectly clear double meaning, "Could you handle something more spirited?"
Ambrose
18 years ago
Ambrose was relived she didn't fall all over herself about the leg, it wasn't his favorite part of who he was but it was part of his identity. As such, he –hated- sympathy. He'd tolerate a certain amount because people couldn't help themselves, but there was a limit.
When she started thinking aloud and planning ways for him to ride Ambrose was taken aback. That was the best reaction he could have hoped for, not only did it not dwell on the negative it was almost a foregone conclusion that they'd see each other again; the best of both worlds.
He had to phrase his response carefully, if he was too forward she might not appreciate that.
"I'd sure like to try. After all I'm only out of practice, not dead."
Very probably, he could do better, but word games weren't his forte. But at least if she had been exclusively talking about horses, he hadn't been offended. If her next reply were positive, he would be asking her out officially.
When she started thinking aloud and planning ways for him to ride Ambrose was taken aback. That was the best reaction he could have hoped for, not only did it not dwell on the negative it was almost a foregone conclusion that they'd see each other again; the best of both worlds.
He had to phrase his response carefully, if he was too forward she might not appreciate that.
"I'd sure like to try. After all I'm only out of practice, not dead."
Very probably, he could do better, but word games weren't his forte. But at least if she had been exclusively talking about horses, he hadn't been offended. If her next reply were positive, he would be asking her out officially.
Ysabel
18 years ago
Ysabel frowned slightly. She had thought she'd been clear. Perhaps not. Ambrose wore a somewhat playful smile, if she was reading the expression properly, but still he hesitated. Ysabel placed her empty cup of tea out of the way. Dayle was going to laugh her ass off.
Leaning forward slightly, Ysabel lowered her eyelashes and then gazed up at Ambrose as if suddenly shy. She was, perhaps, taking it to the extreme just a bit, but one thing Ysabel didn't lack was confidence in her own appeal. She didn't think it would be completely rude of her, and she was fairly certain it wouldn't be unwelcome...
"We can sit here all evening, or you could just answer me one straight question tonight," she said softly. "Are you going to ask me out... Mister Ambrose?"
With that, she looked straight up at him, meeting his light brown eyes with an impish, flirtatious smile of her own.
Leaning forward slightly, Ysabel lowered her eyelashes and then gazed up at Ambrose as if suddenly shy. She was, perhaps, taking it to the extreme just a bit, but one thing Ysabel didn't lack was confidence in her own appeal. She didn't think it would be completely rude of her, and she was fairly certain it wouldn't be unwelcome...
"We can sit here all evening, or you could just answer me one straight question tonight," she said softly. "Are you going to ask me out... Mister Ambrose?"
With that, she looked straight up at him, meeting his light brown eyes with an impish, flirtatious smile of her own.
Ambrose
18 years ago
Holy hell she knew how to get a guy's attention. Ambrose half choked on his coffee, Ysabel managed to time her question just as he'd been swallowing and the surprise had caused things to go down the wrong pipe.
Once he recovered, Ambrose had to think about how to answer that, he didn't think long or hard though.
"I was sort of hoping to do both."
His smile was unmistakable at this point. While Ysabel had surprised him with her question, it was a question he relished and a request he'd been wanting to make.
"Would you like to maybe have a drink with me. If luck is with us there will be a new opera opening soon and if there isn't I'll come up with something else."
Once he recovered, Ambrose had to think about how to answer that, he didn't think long or hard though.
"I was sort of hoping to do both."
His smile was unmistakable at this point. While Ysabel had surprised him with her question, it was a question he relished and a request he'd been wanting to make.
"Would you like to maybe have a drink with me. If luck is with us there will be a new opera opening soon and if there isn't I'll come up with something else."
Ysabel
18 years ago
Much better. Ysabel was sorry to have caused Ambrose to inhale his coffee, but even though she had eternity to wait for an invite out, the human did not. Normally she was a good deal more patient, but she really did need to return home to Dayle and get some unpacking done. She was in a far better mood for it now, though.
She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Well. I could pencil you in," she teased. "I am quite busy. Social engagments and all. Perhaps next month?"
She might have to think up a way to get out of the opera... most operahouses had unbearably bright lights in the lobbies, and whlie she could handle that leaning on Dayle's arm or her father's, she really couldn't come up with a decent explanation that Ambrose wouldn't be suspicious of. But she would consider that on the walk home.
She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Well. I could pencil you in," she teased. "I am quite busy. Social engagments and all. Perhaps next month?"
She might have to think up a way to get out of the opera... most operahouses had unbearably bright lights in the lobbies, and whlie she could handle that leaning on Dayle's arm or her father's, she really couldn't come up with a decent explanation that Ambrose wouldn't be suspicious of. But she would consider that on the walk home.