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Giovanna M. Bennet ([info]burnwithlight) wrote in [info]marvel_nextgen,
@ 2010-03-07 14:01:00


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Entry tags:giovanna bennet

As soon as Giovanna and Andrew had a free moment together and she could get him alone, she did so. "Something happened when you had to handle that other stuff this afternoon. We need to talk about it."


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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-07 10:33 pm UTC (link)
With the aftermath of the kidnapping keeping things buzzing, and having been part of things himself, Andrew's life has been a flurry of activity since the night out. He was glad for it, but he's barely had a moment to catch his breath since.

Still, for her, he'll make time.
"Something happened? Are you ok?"

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-07 10:41 pm UTC (link)
"I'm okay. Let's sit down."

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-07 10:43 pm UTC (link)
That much, at least, is a relief. He moves over to her and sits. "Ok, what's up?"

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-07 10:50 pm UTC (link)
"We had a visitor. Julian Howard. Nightclub owner; you may have seen his name in the stack of Less Necessary Invitations." There was stuff that came in with some discernible relation to Business, but there was also lots of just plain Stuff. "He's quite interested in seeing you, and he said something that may have repercussions."

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-07 10:59 pm UTC (link)
"Oh, right, yes. I saw his name in an invitation to that music club and... battle of the bands, was it? I think that was associated with the X-Factor group that rescued the children on the statue?"

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-07 11:06 pm UTC (link)
"Yes. Something he apparently intends to continue with, which is all well and good, but the more unusual thing is, Andrew, he claims to be your uncle."

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-07 11:24 pm UTC (link)
It says a lot about Andrew, and how submerged he is in the past of some of the most notable mutant personages in the world that his reaction is mostly in the form of a raised eyebrow.
"Huh, so.... Rogue's.... Emma Frost's... we're quite sure we've made sure no more children with Magda could have been possible... alternate timeline maybe? And does my grandfather know?"

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-07 11:47 pm UTC (link)
"He didn't specify." Giovanna grimaced at the very idea of Andrew's grandfather and Emma Frost. "He seems a bit well-settled and established for a temporal immigrant, but there's no real telling there. And nothing he said implied your grandfather knew; he merely said that we better have a secure way of contacting home, because it shouldn't get out yet."

And this time she can't help the wry smile. "He wanted to be clear that he's not after your position."

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-07 11:55 pm UTC (link)
That gets a small laugh. "Of course he isn't, that'd be insane." Yeah, he barely wants to be him right now. Gio's presence is the main thing making life tolerable right now. "You ought to report to your father, he can do the necessary digging. We ought to find out who the mother is, or reportedly is though." He sighs. "In all my abundant free time, of course."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 12:11 am UTC (link)
She takes his hand, listens, and nods. "He'd like to see you tomorrow. I told him we'd call."

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 12:12 am UTC (link)
He sighs. "You're my scheduling brain. Do we have dinner free tomorrow? If his claim holds water, we should meet with him."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 12:31 am UTC (link)
"We do. Six meetings during and after lunch, but they're all in rapid succession. I'll find a restaurant with some privacy and call him in the morning." Not letting the person they were meeting pick the location was a knee-jerk reaction right now; too much has happened lately, best to at least not make a trap easy.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 12:34 am UTC (link)
He nods. "You're the best, you know that? Next time you hear from your dad, you should let him know. Most secure channel we have."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 12:46 am UTC (link)
"Nonsense." She nuzzles against him a little. "But yeah, he's the best way to communicate about this."

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 01:28 am UTC (link)
He pets her hair gently when she nuzzles against him. He may be a little disturbed still, but he knows her well enough, or thinks he does, to still find a lot more good than bad, whatever she's done.

"He is, and they should know. We should hear back if they have anything they want asked or verified before tomorrow. Just keep your dad calm, we don't want him coming here, not right now."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 01:37 am UTC (link)
She nods emphatically. "I will." Father's causing an international incident was the last thing that they needed right now.

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 01:29 am UTC (link)
Father didn't know any more about this situation than she expected him to know.
She promised to talk to him tonight after dinner.


The next evening, after their schedule had run roughshod over them for a while, they make it to the restaurant she'd made reservations with, and informed Julian Howard's assistant of that morning. The food was good, secluded and screened tables were available, and the restaurant staff's policy against eavesdropping --and eavesdroppers -- was notoriously impeccable, with the kind of political and business clientele they usually had.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 01:39 am UTC (link)
He's too tired to be nervous about this. He's been trying every trick he can to rally some support against registration, while trying not to lose ground on what they had. His stunt helped in some corners, while some enemies are already trying to use what almost happened to him, one of the 'few good ones' as all the more proof registration is needed. He's issued demands for official apologies, but its slow work. So this meeting, much as its important, is still just one more thing in the day.

Even so, he's dressed nicely for the occasion, and with her help, pretty well put together, but lets Giovanna guide him to the proper place some, for her own peace of mind as much as anything.

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 02:03 am UTC (link)
Julian arrives at the front door, and has Paulo go back to the car. Once inside, he straights the lapels on his suit and inquires after his party.

When he's escorted back to the table, Julian makes eye contact with Giovanna and smiles. "A pleasure to see you again Miss Bennet."

When he looks at Andrew, he is silent for the longest of moments, before finally finally extending a hand.

"It's good to see you, Mr. Summers." he says, going with the formal approach for now. "I'm glad the both of you agreed to meet with me. Thank you."

"I hope your collective day was productive. The food here is excellent from what I'm told." Julian says, taking an idle look at the menu.

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 02:07 am UTC (link)
Gio just nods politely.

"We hope so, too," she says quietly.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 02:08 am UTC (link)
Andrew shakes hands, but its businesslike, still assessing the man, his expression still decidedly neutral.
"You're welcome, thank you for the generous invitation. And you know politics, if you can keep treading water, you're doing well."

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 02:14 am UTC (link)
Julian expects suspicion, caution even. Anyone can claim to be Magneto's son, but Andrew and Giovanna are in the public eye and need to be especially cautious of whom they deal with.

"Yes, that's what I hear. I try to stay out of politics if I can avoid it, so you're a braver soul than I." Julian offers with a light chuckle.

"I'm glad to see you're well after that ordeal on Ellis Island. That was bold of you, going after those children like that on your own. Mutants could use more people like you, fighting against Registration both politically and physically." he says.

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 02:25 am UTC (link)
Scrutiny's certainly normal enough for Giovanna, even if it's tangled up with Complication in this case. She'll let Andrew do most of the talking for now, like usual.

Giovanna hates thinking of Andrew's going out in such dangerous circumstances on is own. She thinks it was brave and noble and right, of course; she simply should have been there from the start.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 02:30 am UTC (link)
"Someone has to." he answers seriously enough. "Ellis Island wasn't any fun for anyone. Luckily, I heal quick. I'd rather do it again than face some of the more conservative elements sometimes. As for registration, just part of the fight. You've done your homework, I'm trusting, so you're aware that I'm here primarily to try and establish international recognition for Genosha?"

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 02:41 am UTC (link)
"Yes, I am aware of that, and I'm hoping that X-Factor, and I, can aid you in that endeavor, if only indirectly." Julian says.

"What I mean by that, is that X-Factor is looking to show humanity that mutants are people, too. Forcing everyone to register is going to lead to issues for both sides, and could trigger hostilities that a lot of the politicians are not really thinking about." Julian muses.

"If humans can see that X-Factor is trying to bridge the gap between humanity and mutants, then when someone as well-spoken and earnest as yourself comes along looking to bridge the gap between Genosha and other countries, perhaps they'll be more receptive, and vice-versa. You're seeking international recognition for a nation of mutants, which will bring Genosha onto the world stage in a way it hasn't been in the past.

If people can see that you're taking the step to bridge the gap, perhaps they'll be receptive to X-Factor's message of unity between humans and mutants." Julian offers.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 02:50 am UTC (link)
Andrew considers the commentary, then nods, mostly neutrally. "Its possible. Just be careful not to bring about the next 'Dazzler: the Movie' and all. You're putting a lot of faith in your people to be ready for the public stage, while still acting human. That's a tall order. I hope it works out well for you, and them."

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 02:58 am UTC (link)
"Oh, no. No 'Dazzler'. Not if we can help it...though I will say that we have to very talented musicians on the team. Still, I think it will help for people to see that mutants work and live just as they do." Julian says.

"My people, with one exception, are not strangers to the public, though they aren't in your position, quite. Still, we're all hoping for the best." he says.

"Meanwhile, I know there are politicians out there that must be pounding on your door to talk to you, and others who probably won't pick up the phone. What exactly are you bringing to the table for these people to discuss welcoming Genosha into the world community?" Julian asks.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 03:03 am UTC (link)
There's nothing especially state secret about any of it, so he only hesitates for a moment, collecting his thoughts before answering.

"You'd best be right. One misstep by your team, and you risk doing more harm than good. Its a good idea, with a lot of promise. Just keep your eyes open and be careful. As for the offers, for one thing, we're able to offer some sense of security. For as long as he's been quiet, there's still plenty of fear of Magneto. That aside, given the variety of mutants on Genosha, we have all manner of potential resources for creation of trade. Its not an island resort anymore, but we can be a lot more constructive about the resources a nation of mutants can bring to bear."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 03:08 am UTC (link)
Giovanna's torn. The man might be one of the Family, and therefore entitled to a little Respect. But she didn't like the way he was saying things, the way he was asking that last question.

She nods emphatically as Andrew addresses the point so well.

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 03:19 am UTC (link)
Julian nods at Andrew's words, as he says many of the same things that have been said to him before, and that he's thought himself. X-Factor could go either way, but it was Julian's job to make sure that they went in the right direction.

"Yes, Genosha does have a lot to offer in terms of trade and other areas. Few people look at Genosha and see more than a nation of mutants with 'dangerous' abilities. Hopefully, you'll get people to think on these things a bit more as time goes on.

And yes, there will always be the question of Magneto. But if people were truly thinking, they would understand that his agreeing to let you establish relations with other nations is a measure of his sincerity on the matter. Too many people will always let a few past actions cloud every interaction they have with someone in the future." Julian says.

"I truly hope that you're able to find the solutions you seek for Genosha and bring the country onto the world stage. It's long past due." he says.

If and when the waiter should come around, Julian orders a glass of water for the time being.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 03:25 am UTC (link)
Andrew does what he's been doing all day, and goes with water and a 7-up. Easy on the throat and all, and he has plenty of speaking to do, much as he prefers wine when he can get away with it.

"I had to convince Magneto before coming here. He doesn't believe this will work, or the world will ever accept Genosha. But he's willing to allow me my youthful delusions. We have several interested parties, mostly Scandinavian nations... their records on human rights and liberal policies are fairly solid in the modern era. Working on others. Registration is a big part in that fight. But solutions will be a long time coming."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 03:38 am UTC (link)
Giovanna goes with her own usual; one glass of ice water, one of fruit juice.

"We can always hope," she said quietly. Particularly Andrew, and she loved him for it.

When the drinks have arrived and the waiter has properly departed, Giovanna looks particularly questioning at Julian.

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 03:45 am UTC (link)
"But you're looking for solutions now. Hopefully, that's going to spur others to do so and even sway the most recalcitrant types into coming to the table." he says.

Julian takes a sip of his water, and pauses, wondering if he should ask his next question. He decides that asking and being shot down is better than not doing so, and pushes forward.

"You know Magneto well, or well enough to offer commentary. May I ask you what he's like, in person?" Julian inquires.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 03:50 am UTC (link)
Andrew considers. He can understand the motivations of a son wanting to know his father.
"I'm not sure my impressions would be the same as most people's. But in general, most of the time, he's harsh, demanding... mostly of himself. Very strict and disciplined. But he's also the sort of man who genuinely loves his people, and is willing to do anything he can to help them. Strong, willful... and not above reading his grandson old fairy tales in Romany when he thinks no one else can hear him. Your father is a good man, but a haunted one. Little wonder."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 03:55 am UTC (link)
Giovanna just nods slightly. "He's a Great Man, and he works harder than anybody," is all she has to contribute.

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 04:24 am UTC (link)
Julian is a little taken aback when Andrew refers to Magneto as his father. He could actually be accepting him...or testing him for a reaction. Well, he succeeded at getting one.

"Thank you both for telling me that. I know that you both will want proof, as will anyone you discuss it with. I'm prepared to offer that." Julian says, reaching slowly into his left breast pocket.

He draws out what appears to be a beaded bracelet on colored string. Andrew may or may not have seen a bracelet like this in Magneto's possession at some point. It is an old Romany craft, something simple that even children can do.

"My mother once watched Magnus make one of these. He thought she was sleeping, and he refused to speak of it when she asked what it was about. Still, she remembered it, and showed me how to make one years ago." he says, handing it over.

The small, metallic symbol looks like it might be family crest or marking of some sort.

"Perhaps Father will recognize it and know that you speak the truth when you say you met me. He'll think back to a time twenty-five years ago, and know who he was with at that point, and know that I speak the truth.

I don't ask for public recognition, Andrew. I just want him to know that I am alive and well. Anything further, he has only to command my presence. Giovanna, I'm also willing to stand before your father to let him ascertain the truth of my claim." he says.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 04:38 am UTC (link)
"I recognize it." Andrew replies, glancing only briefly before handing it on to Giovanna for safekeeping.
"Regardless of the truth or lack of, its not any concern of mine right now. I'm family to a lot of people I'm not necessarily close to. Whatever happens next will be up to grandfather. He's almost sure to have a lot of questions, though it'll almost certainly be in Genosha, or international waters. Right now, he's staying away in order to not hinder the diplomatic effort."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 04:52 am UTC (link)
Giovanna puts it carefully away.

She listens and nods. "Father, too, obviously." Although nothing reinforces the fact that Julian either has a death wish or believes it than wanting to see Father about it.

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 05:02 am UTC (link)
"You are correct. You have other things that require your attention, as do I. I'd like it if we can agree to see where this goes for now." Julian offers.

"Now that we've gotten all of that out of the way, let's order. And you both are welcome to come by the club sometime. Live music three nights a week, and a good time for all." he says, finishing his glass of water.

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[info]assaultnbattery
2010-03-08 05:06 am UTC (link)
"We'll see what happens. I've gotten a little more information on your place... I prefer classical, myself, but we may stop by when things die down a bit. We can certainly see where things go. For now, good luck, for all our sakes, with X-Factor."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 05:44 am UTC (link)
"Yes, good luck," Giovanna says politely and sincerely, and then eventually they can order, and she'll get something appropriately healthy.

Eventually, she looks to Julian. "There's something I have to admit I'm curious about, but I don't want to intrude on a personal question."

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 04:59 pm UTC (link)
"Just let me know when you want to stop by and we'll set things up. And thank you. I wish you all the best in your work." Julian says sincerely.

When Giovanna speaks Julian nods. "If I can answer your question, I will do so. Please ask."

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-08 07:16 pm UTC (link)
"Again, sorry to pry, but do your own abilities have any telepathic components?" She asks very quietly. Nothing's touched her defenses, but that doesn't necessarily mean that nothing's there.

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[info]hellfireprince
2010-03-08 07:21 pm UTC (link)
"Ah, interesting question. They do, as a matter of fact." he says simply.

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[info]burnwithlight
2010-03-09 03:05 am UTC (link)
A little nod of appreciation of the answer. "Mine have a few psionic elements as well," she continues quietly and conversationally. "Although specifically directed."

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