A Gentleman's Prerogative (Unedited Version)

Chapter 24

Chen Li took Marioselle to her sanctuary.  Her driver, her most trusted friend and ally, was the only one who knew of its existence.  At least, he had been, until now.

"What is this place? Is this your home? Oh, my! Chen Li, It's absolutely breathtaking.  How could one simply not adore livining here?" Marioselle asked in shocked suprise, as she looked in awe as they approached the quaint woodland cottage.

Chen Li looked on with pride, and a little wonder at the Marioselles appraisal. She had felt the same when she first set eyes upon cozy, little stone house.  She hadn't however, expected the same reaction from a Lady.  Especially one of Lady Marioselle's caliber.  After all, the young woman had been raised in one of the finest mansions in Paris.  Her bed chamber was probably bigger than Li's entire main floor.  However, she seemed to be genuine in her praise and Li noticed she wasn't at all like most of the haute ton.  So with this she was pleased. Her compliments only confirmed how charming the house truly was.  Sadly, she would never see it again after this day.

It wasn't the same home she had sent Aung to retrieve her plants. That place had been established for much seedier reasons. Though it was kept from the rest of the organization, it was no secret to the keeper, as he was the one who had secured it.  It was for that reason she hadn't been worried that Aung would be caught retrieving her things. 

Sémonville would never look for her there . He knew it was the last place she would go, therefore why bother looking.  He knew she hated the place.  She had never felt comfortable in it, maybe because he had spoiled it with his presence.  That hadn't mattered honestly.  It was never meant to be used as a home in the first place.  It was simply a necessary means, a  precaution.  A place where one could have privacy.  Somewhere she could practice her skills, and mix her potions without detection from prying eyes. It was also her point of contact should the organization require her services.  That was where she prepared for her upcoming missions. 

Unlike the brothel, it was secure and remote.  Away from the public and nosy maids.  She couldn't very well keep her weapons at the mansion.  Had someone found them and reported her, she would almost certainly hang for treason, her deeds exposed. A trial alone would elicit too many questions.  Something the organization couldn't chance.  So the Marquis had brought her here.

"Chen Li?  Is everything alright? You look worried?"

Li woke from her woolgathering to answer Lady Marioselle.  "Pardon me, I'm afraid I was a bit lost in thought.  Everything is fine, do not worry.  No one but my driver knows of this place, and he will not tell."  She noticed Marioselle rubbing her arms together.  "Are you cold?  Come sit, I will light a fire.  I'm afraid it's been a while since I have been home.  It is rather chilly in here.  I'll light the hearth, then we can prepare ourselves."

"Do you really think this will work?  Are you certain you have everything we need?"

"I do. The plan will work, and I am more than prepared.  Please, sit down and rest a bit.  I need time to focus my energy.  Then I will gather what we will need." 

She wasn't worried about having the materials.  She had all they needed here, as she had found it best to kept everything at her disposal.  Both homes were well stocked with percatuanary items. She even had a safe box full of cash and jewels she had acquired over the years.  She was a very wealthy woman.

AS for clothing, she bought two of every garment she owned,  including her Madame outfits.  She kept them all at each one of her houses. If for any reason she needed to change quicky, they would be at hand, like the night before.  There were times she was ordered to attend certain events.  Lady Marioselle's Birthday celebration had been one of those times.  

Thankfully, she had realized early on that something of this nature happening was indeed a possibility.  Her instinctive feelings that she would eventually become the target had been spot on.  She was grateful.  It had been those very instincts that had prompted her to acquire this residence in the first place.  If she had not acted on that feeling in the pit of her stomach, she wouldn't have had anywhere to go, and would've been caught instantly.  An Asian woman wearing a ballgown on the streets of Paris would have garnered the attention she was trying so desperately to avoid. 

The house had served its intended purpose, security.  Especially for her clandestine meeting's.  For instance, if she had been out on a mission, she couldn't very well return to the brothel dressed in her saam. The whores and waitstaff would question the odd costume, especially since the French considered the style to be strictly menswear. 

Her saam consisted of silk pants, a silk tunic, and a sash that wrapped around her waist.  Its main purpose was to allow freedom of movement.  Something necessary when facing off against her adversaries.  Should she be seen, those who knew of its origins would question her usage.  These innocent observations would draw unwanted attention to her, something she couldn't risk.  They would eventually jeopardize her cover.  This would not only put her life in danger, but Mei's life as well.   Should someone report her odd attire or behavior to the authorities, she would be arrested and hanged by the neck for treason. The fact that she was foriegn born would not help matters.  There would be no one to speak on her behalf, and only a few would miss her.  Unless...she thought, a bit hopeful as she turned to the person beside her. 

"I'm sorry, did you say something Lady Marioselle?"

"Is everything alright, Chen Li?" She asked as she placed a kind hand on Li's forearm.   Li had to use all her will power not to flinch from the Lady's sudden touch.  She wasn't used to anyone reaching out in kindness.  She wasn't used to compassion at all.

"I'm fine milady.  I was just contemplating our next move.  Come with me, I will show you were you can wash up."