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April 2008
Topic Started: Nov 5 2009, 10:37 PM (3,957 Views)
Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Summary:

later :)
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 1:47 pm


Arthur



The Commander had heard Scipio interject a comment about
Mordred’s help in the defenses of the fortress, but gave no
acknowledgement as he was occupied in handing off his captive.
The movement and strength required to lower the Woad’s petite
body to the awaiting arms of Lancelot and Tristan had only
aggravated Arthur’s injury. He gritted his teeth while
attempting to find a more comfortable position in the saddle
and then brought Casti ‘round to briefly address the men.

“Gentlemen, let us return home!” Arthur called out to the line
of soldiers and knights indicating they would now proceed on
to the main gate. And then with Amadeus riding alongside,
Arthur urged his white Andalusian on towards the gate ahead.
The two men rode in silence allowing Arthur a moment to
submerge himself in his own thoughts. His side twinged and
burned and the Commander’s vision wavered again. Despite his
pain, Arthur’s expression remained one of steely
determination…although his hand remained firmly pressed over
his side. He was physically weakening from his own blood loss,
yet Arthur’s strong will kept him focused. Get them all back
within the high walls of Badon Keep. Allow me a moment to
assess the condition of the fortress and to see her face
again….and then I will seek out Merlin.

The mission had produced one single promising event for Arthur
though…..he and Lancelot had seemingly reached a mutual
understanding and their friendship was on the mend. But at
what costs? And what of Darya and her place in Arthur’s
personal life? Had the Roman any true right to have her at his
side? Did Arthur deserve her love and could he keep it without
guilt from the past?

Amadeus
 

                        "You have been injured hmm?"



Amadeus’ question brought Arthur out of his reverie and he
briefly canted his gaze to the Optio before flickering weary
green eyes down at the hand over his wounded side. Arthur
parted his lips to answer, but Amadeus continued…..

Amadeus
 

                        "How did the mission go against the Saxons? What of your
                        losses and casualties?"



The mere mention of the word ‘losses’ made Arthur’s stomach
churn. And the Commander’s thoughts went immediately to
Dagonet….guilt quickly threatened to choke Arthur, so much so
that he failed to pick up on the nearly obvious cynicism in
the Optio’s tone.

“The mission was a success,” Arthur stated plainly in a mildly
official tone and without glancing over to meet Amadeus’ gaze.
“I regret to say that we lost a dozen good soldiers and most
regrettably one of my knights, Gedeon,” Arthur said the
Sarmatian’s name with a hint of emotion that he could not
completely hide. Yet his gaze remained fixed on the road
ahead. He silently prayed for God’s forgiveness…..prayed for
those lost both on that battlefield and here at the fortress
in his absence.

As they approached the fortified gate, the Commander turned
his gaze upward to the watchtower as Amadeus lifted a gloved
hand to signal their arrival. And without Arthur needing to
order it, the massive gates creaked and groaned on their metal
hinges as they swung open to admit the returning host of men.

Arthur thought nothing of Amadeus’ presence equal at his side
as the two men rode under the stone archway and towards the
open courtyard. Soldiers lined their path and many of the
commoners also seemed to come out to greet them. Arthur’s
emerald eyes searched the faces needing to find her…needing
reassured that Darya was there and waiting for his
return…..his side ached again and Arthur’s ability to focus
began to falter…he willed his body to not fail him….not yet.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: DarkDiva
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 2:29 pm

Loudres



Lourdes moved tot he shadows after nodding at Merlin’s
appreciation of her help. She kneeled down next to a woad a
few yards away and sighed running her hand over his forehead
he was catching a fever and sweating. She sighed heavily
feeling her heart sink. Arthur did this, Romans and knights
did this. Her people, Arthur’s people. She grabbed a small
vile from her pouch she had tied at her hip. She smiled gently
at the woad and surprisingly genuinely. Not many saw those
true smiles of hers.


She gently raised the liquid to his lips and drank some of it
and she smiled bigger taking a cloth from her pouch and wiping
the blood and dirt form his forehead. Her ears never steered
away from the quite sad idea this Ash person was proposing.
There was no pretending you were Roman. It made her chuckle
silently.

Guinevere appeared to not like him which cinched it for
Lourdes she trusted Guinevere. Greatly, also a hard task to
accomplish after she wiped the wound on the woads head she
stood.

"Merlin, I can find the two you wish for. I am welcome in the
fort and get in without any schemes. I delivered on my promise
last time. I can deal with Arthur, he is the commander. If you
wish to have these two back. That way this Ash and Guinevere
need not be harms way" Lourdes said still looking at the woads
concerned on the ground.

"I can replenish my hearbs as well there and bring back some
necessities to help these injured." Her voice almost cracked
the scene was such a punch to the gut at what was to come. She
could deal with her brother better then any other.

She eyed the Ash man for a moment and Guinevere’s face. She
believed Guinevere would do a better job, she was a noble
warrior. This man warranted to be looked into, hopefully
Merlin wasn't putting his trust in the right people.

Lourdes took a deep breath despite all the priestess wanted
she wanted to help her people and help Merlin and her brother.
She could get in a lot easier without problems and find the
two they seek. Also bring back provisions for them.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: Pinkie
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 3:00 pm

Galahad


Galahad was edgy. He was sitting in his saddle but just about. He kept leaning to the side and peering around the taller figures of Arthur and Amadeus, peering at the formidable, grey walls of Badon Hill. It may not have been Sarmatia, but it was home. His baby blue eyes glanced over at Gawain out of habit, to see if his brother was just as excited and eager to be home as he was. Long, thin fingers twitched about the reins. The young knight's complexion was rather pale from the wound on his abdomen, but he was playing down how serious that was. Like any of the others, he didn't want to spend his first night back at Badon cooped up in the infirmary. Even the thought of it curled his pouting upper lip.

The gates creaked audibly and Galahad's head snapped around to face front again. He rose up out of his saddle, feet firmly placed in the stirrups, and peered in through the gate searching those gathered. There was always quite a gathering but it was rare that Galahad had anyone specific waiting for him.

He remained in that position for a few strides and then plopped back into the saddle, composing his face into a mask of stoic non-chalance. He would act cool - - and be cool. Tensing his bearded jaw, Galahad ducked his head going through the gates though there was no need to. He glanced over his shoulder to where the cart with Dagonet was rolling in, letting his gaze rove towards Lancelot and Tristan who were in charge of the bloody woad woman. Galahad had a hard time keeping his lips tight about that one - he knew Arthur was injured, he also knew that Lancelot, whinging bastard that he was, would give Arthur an earful about this in any case.

Rising up out of his saddle, Galahad swung one leg over the pommel and slid down the side of the grey beast, sighing in relief when his boots hit the familiar, uneven, sloshy muck of Badon courtyard. He narrowed his blue eyes as he pushed down the hood of his cloak, looking about the courtyard at the destruction that had been wraught in their abscence - almost the whole block of the barracks were blackened rubble, the stables roof was scorched too. With an outraged snort, Galahad was about to turn to complain to whoever was closest to him when he spotted Alina.

Only the gods would know how he picked her out of the crowd but he did. She was standing off to one side with Linnesse and Neeve, and Linnette too? Galahad's heart lurched at the sight of Linnette, her pale face hopeful. Gods she was going to be crushed... Tensing his jaw, Galahad kept a hold of his horses reigns and moved forward, towards Alina. The mulch of the horses hooves on the slushy ground seemed inordinately loud to Galahad but the kept his head slightly bowed so as not to meet Linnette's eyes and incur any queries from her. Galahad tried to keep his face expressionless but inevitably a relieved, boyish smile started to tug at the corners of his lips as he came closer to Alina.

"Hello stranger..." he said in a gruff voice.







Saoirse

Saoirse's stomach was a firm knot of apprehension. She could feel tears already pricking the corners of her eyes, a sense of dread flooding through her. Her heart thundered, an uncomfortable, irregular beat in the very centre of her chest, reverberating in her ears, deafening her to all the periphery noises of the Knights returns. Her blue eyes were fixated on Dagonet's empty horse. Slowly a hand lifted to her mouth and she tried to inhale. Nothing would function though... Her lungs felt empty, her throat full, her eyes foggy and her legs weak.

The Irish woman gave a perceivable shudder and finally gasped in a breath. She took one step forward, face crumpling but the tears not falling. Not yet. Saoirse gave a keening whine then forceably silenced herself. Her coat blew open in teh gusty wind that blew around the courtyard.

"Dagonet..?" her voice was barely above a whisper, her tone choked. There was no one really standing near to her to hear the desperate whisper. Steeling herself, Saoirse pushed forward through the gathering just as the knights assembled in the courtyard. Her expression furious as she looked at Dagonet's horse and looked around for someone to explain to her where her lover was. Her fists were balled up by her side and the tears finally spilled over but they looekd more like tears of anger than heartache right now, coupled with her stern expression.







Drake

Drake was just being masochistic now. He was cursing himself silently as he braved the bitter wind and icy drizzle to go out to the courtyard, taking the long way around instead of going the way the women had gone. As he walked through the rain he began planning his trip to Jerusalem. It would be for the betterment of everyone. It was cruel of him to leave Cassidy and Fleur thinking he wuold take care of them. It was unfair to be such a thorn in Linnette's side when she didn't need him anymore, not when her lover was returning. That 'term' for her Knight made Drake's stomach twist with tension. It implied so much... lover. It implied love, and the making of love.

The Spaniard shook his head.

The only one that would probably miss him, in all actuality, was Alina. But she was on a path that he could not follow if she was pursuing Kolya anyways. He would not be able to stand back and let her ruin herself with teh Sarmatian's company but he would not involve himself so deeply or forceably either. So, best for everyone that he just ups and leaves.

As Drake rounded a building's corner he saw the courtyard before him and the riders begin to file in. Arthur was at the front, with the Optio. The rest of his Sarmatians followed in behind, a few Roman soldiers straggling in looking bedraggled and haunted. Drawing his teeth against his upper lip constantly, Drake scanned the gathering, mainly women, who were waiting in anticipation of the men's return. He spotted Linnette alright, her auburn hair coupled with her sister's blonde was pretty easy to espy.

Swallowing hard, Drake dropped his eyes, lowered his face and shook his head.

"Stupid, masochistic fool..." he murmured to himself, shoving off from the wet wall he had been leaning against and wandered slowly, dejectedly towards the fortress, intent on wallowing in self pity whilst preparing his saddle bags for the journey tomorrow.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: golden_trillium
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 3:24 pm


Linnette and Linnesse


And they came in the gates! Arthur, Amadeus, and Mordred were
in the lead, with the rest of the mounted men, surrounding a
supply wagon, after that, and the foot soldiers behind.
Linnette briefly registered the fact that there was an odd,
dangling bundle behind Lancelot's saddle, and that Tristan,
most unusually, walked warily alongside it, but most of her
attention was, of course taken up searching for Gedeon.
Galahad was the first of the knights to dismount, and he came
right over to Alina, near to her, but Linnette merely stepped
around him and continued scanning the column, her body tense
with excitement and ready to take off running for her
husband's arms the instant she saw where she should be running
to. There was Derfel, alongside the wagon- Linnette took a
second to beckon him broadly over, pointing to Linnesse, who
sat under the stable eaves on the bench, before she ran a
couple of steps to the side to get a look around the wagon.
Perhaps Gedeon was on the other side of it, hidden from her
original view? Or was he bringing up the rear, perhaps?
Linnette bit her lip, her eyes roving impatiently about, while
behind her, and unseen by her, Linnesse struggled to rise from
the bench, her eyes glued to Derfel and a huge grin on her
pale, thin face.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: Pinkie
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 4:49 pm

Catherine


Catherine chose her place wisely. She looked like a beacon in
the dreary, grey, bleak surroundings of wet walls and sodden
muck. Her smile was whimsical, her hazy green eyes scanning
the area as if she were not truly bothered about who was going
to be there, when in reality she was all too eager for the
experience.

Arthur headed the group. The whore gave a small giggle of
delight to see him riding so proudly on his white horse. He
looked both dashing and dangerous, with the muck and blood of
battle still a blemish upon his armour and clothes. His green
eyes were intense but pinched.

Catherine sauntered to one side, leaning against a railings
that overlooked the courtyard, one immaculate hand reaching
out to hold it as she cocked her head, watching the others
stream in.

Oh, Lancelot. His curly hair was plastered to his face, stark
in comparison to his handsome, angular face. Catherine smirked
at the sight of him but let her gaze rove onwards. The
tattooed scout! Now what a mystery he was. In all her lifetime
at Badon Hill, Catherine reckoned she had heard him speak
perhaps five times, and then it was only when prompted to by
one of the others. It was almost as if he didn't speak their
language or something, so concise and infrequent were his
words.

And Gawain. Catherine gave a soft purr to see this particular
fellow, chuckling softly as she looked all down his lean body
from shaggy blonde hair to mucky boots. What she wouldn't give
to dunk him in a bath and while away the night in his
company...

The youngest of the Knights, Galahad, was already off his
horse, moving towards the women which made Catherine pout a
little, feeling somewhat offended that he was so obviously
taken with someone else other than her. It wasn't arrogance,
not really. Catherien just believed that she took care of
herself for a reason ... to be noticed.

Sighing, she gave a small grimace when she spotted the
bald-headed Knight, Bors. He was a little too bawdy for her
tastes but he seemed to satisfy Vanora well enough. Catherine
gave another sweet lopsided smile and perused the others - the
Optio. No, much too stern. He was nigh-untouchable sitting
atop his horse- his back as stiff and long as his crooked
nose. The Saxon, oh his name ... hmm.. Derfel! He looked
rather attractive, his coloring similar to her own. But his
face looked distraught, strained somehow. Catherine frowned,
her back straightening as she perused the gruop again,
counting, then recounting.

There were some missing...

The tall one, with the scar... Dagonet. He was not there. And
the new Knight. Catherine frowned as she tried to recall his
name, her ever attentive green eyes not leaving the men for
one moment.







Amadeus

Arthur
 
“The mission was a success, I regret to say that we lost
a dozen good soldiers and most regrettably one of my
knights, Gedeon,”


Amadeus listened with an attentive though unsympathetic ear to
Arthur's pained voice. He almost rolled his cruel grey eyes at
the pained tone that the Commander used. A part of the Optio
wondered if he could pull off that hurt tone for he could use
it at some stage or other, for a pretense at upset over the
loss of someone, or something. A contemplative frown creased
the man's forehead as if he were reflective over the death of
one of the Knights. It took him quite a while to realise which
one it was though. Gedeon.

God damn it! Probably the only one of Arthur's damnable
knights that had any kind of respect in him!

The Optios face lifted and he truly did look regretful, though
nto or the same reasons that Arthur was.

"Oh that is regrettable indeed.." the man murmured, tsking
gently as they passed in under the imposing gateway of Badon
Hill. He kept his horse forward, neck and neck with Arthur's
mount, for the prestige and prominence of being equal to the
Commander. Arthur may not have thought about them riding in
side by side but Amadeus did. He took appearances very
seriously, and to be at the Commander's side was a prestigous
place to be. That is why it galled so much that Lancelot took
that position so often.

Taking a deep breath, Amadeus turned his horse around a little
so that he was looking at Arthur -

"The barracks were badly damaged during the fighting last
night so I ordered the soldiers to take up the empty rooms
normally reserved for your Sarmatian Knights." Amadeus
explained blithely with an aloof gesture of his gloved hand
towards the barracks. His grey eyes peered about the
courtyard, surveying the people gathered, taking stock of
their emotions and reactions. Most were pleased to see the
return of Castus which was bloody shameful. Wasn't it Amadeus
Scipio and Lord Mordred who had saved their pathetic lives
last night!?

Pursing his lips, Amadeus only slid from the saddle when a
squire had popped up by his side. And even then it was a
painful affair. He did all in his power to hide the pain in
his thigh and forearm where he had been cut by a woad during
the fighting, but he could not stop the stunned hiss of breath
when his feet hit the gruond and the torn scar on his thigh
resettled.

Gritting his teeth, Amadeus glanced towards the obviously weak
and wounded Arthur -

"We need to speak about certain plans and ... " the Optio
stopped, noticing Arthur's distracted green eyes roving the
crowd, he lifted his eyebrows expectantly at the Commander.








Mari

Mari didn't want to make Milan change at all. She wanted him
to speak to her now, in private, so that when the time came he
could speak properly, confidently, in order to make himself
understood to others. A part of her wondered if he might not
have been so badly hurt if he had been able to shout his
innocence when Mordred dragged him away to prison. Mari was
happy enough with his silence, but she wanted him to at least
have the option of speaking. And this was something she cuold
help him with - it was something she was quite adept at ...
talking.

Milan
 
"Ka...ki...erss..."


The young woman gave a surprised giggle and tipped her head
forward after Milan kissed her and then pulled away quickly.
She was processing the way he spoke and gave him a fond smile
as she did so.

"Kiss... kih-sss" - she drew the word out slowly as he took
one of her hands and lifted her arm from the water. Mari
cocked her head to the side curiously, watching him in mild
fascination as he turned her arm over one way, then the other,
his head tipping forward as his eyes roved every inch of skin.
She gave a small chuckle of amusement before realising what he
was doing -- "Arm... " she told him, lifting her eyebrows
expectantly for him to repeat it.

It took a moment for her to cop on to what he was looking for
and when she did, Mari sighed, shaking her head to let him
know that she wasn't hurt there.

"Here..." she pointed to her forehead where it was badly
abrased, "And here..." she pointed towards her chest where she
imagined her heart to be, then placed her hand on her stomach,
indicating discomfort at what had happened, her face a picture
of sorrow. "And a little here." Mari whispered.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: lady ione
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 5:08 pm


Brendyn


They had begun to move toward the huge gates of the fort, and
the anticipation of his new life within the fort built up
within him. He had made a few friends of some of the knights,
and he hoped to make more friends later on. Right now, his new
life under a new Commander was all he could think of. New
duties. Next to him, Derfel seemed deep in thought, though he
replied Brendyn with pride...no doubt his thoughts, like the
rest of them, revolved around a lovely wife or lady to whom
they had given their hearts. In truth, Brendyn had found many
women that he had loved, but his intent studies on his skills
and such did not allow for pleasures.

Someday, but not right now.

Derfel
 

                        “You will do fine, Brendyn. Arthur has this talent for
                        seeing the best in us all….and he looks after everyone,”



"I am told he is a remarkable man, and one that other
Commanders speak very highly of...almost like a diety of
sorts. They say he is a great stratigist, and has rarely lost
a battle..." Brendyn spoke low enough for both Dagonet and
Derfel to hear. Brendyn turned his eyes to the view ahead as
the fort drew nearer, and the gates opened before them. His
eyes grew wide with wonder as they roamed over the walls, the
troops lined to meet them, and the sights and wonders as they
entered the courtyard. Obviously the women had heard they were
coming for the courtyard was filled with women waiting for
their men, or just to be there to greet them...

Derfel
 

                        “Aye, my friend. I think we all share in that prayer,”



"Aye," Brendyn smiled at his new friend, but the smile
vanished as he saw the look on Derfel's face as the smile
vanished. Something troubled him greatly. He pulled Tyranus up
next to Derfel and the recovery wagon. "Sir?" He asked
curiously. "Is there something wrong? You seem troubled?"
Brendyn looked at him curiously. Not far off, he did spot a
strikingly lovely blond (Cathrine), and wondered who she could
be waiting for. Lovely enough... The Briton's left eyebrow
raised. Perhaps Gawian was right. Getting to know women was
not such a bad thing. Brendyn studied her at great length,
then turned back to Derfel. He was still concerned over the
knight's thoughts...

No doubt, he'd not have time to get to know this lovely
creature better as his duties and getting settled into the
fort would occupy alot of his time...but then he needed to
start knowing women in his life. Antonius had always told him
Duties before pleasure...

Brendyn reminded himself that he had to report to the
Centurion, and the Commander, then get to his barriks, and get
himself situated. Then perhaps he'd have time to train with
his lance and sword a bit more. He had asked Derfel to teach
him more skills concerning his sword as Derfel seemed to be a
master at using his, but the Saxon had been occupied with
other matters....

It was going to be a busy first few days.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: Lancelot
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 6:24 pm


Lancelot


The first knight relegated himself to second place; riding
behind the Optio was not something he enjoyed, but he had been
tasked with carrying the Woad girl into the fort, and that he
had done.

He watched Arthur's body swaying stiffly in the saddle, and
noted the commander swinging his eyes from side to side,
scanning the crowd, as if he were searching for something, or
someone...

Darya.

A small laugh, and Lancelot halted his newly named horse. He
slid to the ground, landing nimbly, and turned to Tristan.
"Cut her loose, will you? Despite what Arthur thinks, I'm not
caring for some babe in the woods bitch Woad while he's
wounded."

He lifted the girl's head again, this time placing his fingers
under her chin, and spoke in her face. "Awake, princess!
Welcome to your new home. Wakey wakey, girl." He patted the
side of her face a few times, and then smacked it, probably a
bit too hard, but Lancelot didn't care. This girl was a
warrior, same as him, and she'd tried to kill Arthur. She
deserved her own death.

Lancelot was close enough to the Optio to hear when the man
dismounted and spoke to Arthur. He snarled under his breath at
the way the man gave orders like Arthur wasn't the superior.

Amadeus
 

                        "We need to speak about certain plans and ... "



"...and you need to let him get to the Medicus, sir," Lancelot
replied, loudly enough for the big nosed bastard to hear him.
He hoped Arthur had, as well - and Lancelot could use the trip
as an excuse to get his own arrow wound looked at. He began to
help untie the Woad girl from his horse, hissing once at the
pain in his tricep when he bent his elbow.

Oh, home again. What fun.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
LadyCastus
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 6:52 pm

Commander Barbattus



The welcoming crowd grew larger as the men made their way
through the gates. Women clutched their bosom and children
jumped up and down excitedly, all craning their necks,
frantically scanning the procession, searching for fathers,
husbands, sons, brothers and friends.

As Malcus made his way down the wide stairs from his position
on the rampart, a soldier named Titrus, met him half way and
saluted. "Commander, one of the guards at the side gate has
reported an injured native just outside."

"A Woad?" Malcus asked, stopping in his tracks.

"No sir. He's a local. He looks injured. He must have gotten
injured during the skirmish. He is barely conscious."

Malcus raised an eyebrow. Under these circumstances, since
Merlin had gone back on his word, Malcus had to be cautious.
Even though he highly doubted it, it might be a trick. Malcus
thought for a moment, then commanded, "Go get him and take him
to the infirmary. If he is faking, kill him." The soldier
saluted, "Yes sir!" and walked off to do as ordered.

Commander Barbattus arrived at the gate just as Lancelot and
Tristan made their way through the gate with what appeared to
be a bloody blue mess tied into the saddle of a horse. Then
Malcus saw Arthur and knew immediately that he was injured.
Malcus recognized the pallor of his friend's complexion and
the pain that lied underneath Arthur's noble expression. Yes,
Malcus knew his friend and saw that he was not well. Not well
at all. As Malcus pressed his way forward he noticed how
Arthur clutched his side - obviously the place of his injury.
He tried to make eye contact with Arthur, but Arthur's eyes
scanned past him, searching for another. Malcus decided to
speak with Arthur later as originally planned and made his way
to Tristan instead. Malcus approached just as Lancelot smacked
what appeared to be an unconscious or dead, barely-dressed,
young woad woman.

"Tristan," he said, extending his arm to the scout in
salutation. He nodded and half smiled at Lancelot. "Welcome
home, men. What the bloody hell is that thing you have there
on the horse? Is it dead or alive?"
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
golden_trillium
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 7:24 pm

Merlin


Lourdes
 
"Merlin, I can find the two you wish for. I am welcome
in the fort and get in without any schemes. I delivered
on my promise last time. I can deal with Arthur, he is
the commander. If you wish to have these two back. That
way this Ash and Guinevere need not be in harm’s way. I
can replenish my herbs as well there and bring back some
necessities to help these injured."


Merlin raised his eyebrows rather skeptically as the Lady
broke in- she had been listening to all that they had said,
apparently. Not that Merlin should have expected anything
else. And truthfully, she, as well, had a point. She could get
into the fort much easier than either Ash or Guinevere- all
she would have to was to ride in the gates. But she couldn’t
do the job alone- and more importantly was the issue of how
trustworthy she was. Lourdes did not wish the Woads as a group
harm, true- but there was a big difference between tending a
few wounded and helping to spring a couple of prisoners from
right under her brother’s nose. Was Lourdes ready to take that
step? Or was she just saying that she was.

“Lady…” began Merlin cautiously. He did not wish to antagonize
her, lest she just go to Arthur and tell the whole tale of
their plan, but nor did he wish to entrust this mission to her
alone. She would require very careful handling if this was to
be successful.

“I have no doubt that you can enter the fort, and perhaps you
can even find Eala and Neeria,” Perhaps. Commander’s sister or
not, Merlin very much doubted that Lourdes would be allowed
the run of even the most secret dungeons Badon possessed, but
he left that issue aside for now. “But you can’t possibly get
two prisoners out by yourself. They may be injured, very weak,
and with the utmost respect, Lady, you are no warrior. You
will need assistance- and Ash and Guinevere are both among my
best.” Merlin nodded towards the other two with these words,
indicating the high esteem he held them in.







Tristan

Lancelot
 
"Cut her loose, will you? Despite what Arthur thinks,
I'm not caring for some babe in the woods bitch Woad
while he's wounded. Awake, princess! Welcome to your new
home. Wakey wakey, girl."


"Heh." Tristan gave a short, sharp exhale that might have
passed for a laugh, and began undoing the cords as Lancelot
tried to bring the girl around. New home indeed...she might
very well wish she was dead by the time she got out of here-
if that ever even happened. Lancelot shouted up an
interjection into the Commander and Optio's conversation as
they worked- something to the effect of getting Arthur to
medical attention, of course, and then hissed in pain as he
tugged at one of the cord ends. It was subtle, but Tristan
noticed the center of the bloodstain on his sleeve dampen
again.

"I've got this," Tristan grunted, moving around the horse to
undo the cords from the other side. As he was working,
Barbattus, the officer in charge of the fort's foot soldiers,
approached them with a salute and a curious question.

Malcus
 
"Tristan. Welcome home, men. What the bloody hell is
that thing you have there on the horse? Is it dead or
alive?"


"Alive- sadly," Tristan grunted, tugging loose the last rope.
He stuffed the cord back into his pouch- he would fold it more
neatly later- and reached for the girl's nearest leg, hauling
that towards him and getting his shoulder under her hip to
lift. She was thin as a stick, like so many of the Woad women-
no great burden, for an unconscious bundle.

"Arthur wants her kept," he added, craning his neck to peer
over his shoulder at her dangling face with an expression of
disgust. Arthur was a fool. This one was of no use whatsoever,
baggage at best and a danger at worst. But like Lancelot had
said...if she tried anything, she would be dead so fast even
her Gods wouldn't have time to notice. Tristan gave a small
sniff of satisfaction at that- and as he straightened his head
his eyes briefly settled on a blonde woman across the
courtyard, who stood scanning the returning group with a
come-hither expression on her pretty face. Hmmm...a woman.
Maybe that would be a good thing- later, though. Later, after
he had sorted things here and seen to his equipment. A good
warrior never neglected that.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: Kayla
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 7:35 pm


Fiona


Vanora
 

"Bors and I would like to take you in as one of our own. I know we have taken you in, but only for protection, but I would like an older daughter, and since you are living here at the fort...t'would be nice. What do you  think?"


The battle was mostly over, that much was obvious. There were no more loud shouts to be heard, none of the sounds that signaled war wafting into the tavern, where Fiona was with Vanora, her children and an unknown woman, whom the young woad just smiled at shyly. The red head's words distracted her from saying anything though and she cocked her head to the side for a moment, mulling over what Vanora was saying. She thought
back to when she was younger, and how she never would have imagined that she would be living in a fort, away from what she knew best and having someone from that fort want and view her as a daughter. It was a welcoming thought that Vanora and Bors wanted to take her in as one of their own, not just let her stay with them. She smiled at her once more, nodding her head.

"I think it's a good idea."

Vanora
 

                        "Soon, I hope...funny, but he can be annoyingly
                        sarcastic and obnoxious, but one could never find a more
                        loving mate, nor father for my children. Bors will be
                        home soon."



Fiona grinned when she first started on the description of
Bors and then the smile became softer. It was obvious that the
woman sitting across from her loved the knight, and the woad
wondered just how she managed to deal with him being away so
often, fighting to protect. But, Vanora seemed to be a strong
woman, something that Fiona looked up to and hoped that she
would be as she continued growing older and coming more and
more into herself, finding out who she truly was. It was both
an unsettling and exciting prospect, and one that she had no
idea if she was ready for. It was a good start that she was no
longer a warrior, or at least in her opinion and she knew that
she had no idea what the road ahead would open for her. What
would happen if she truly left the fort for Avalon, becoming a
preistess as her father hoped?

Shaking her head, she cleared the thoughts drifting in her
mind, looking down at the child sitting beside her once more.
"I hope he arrives safely," she murmured, thinking of the big
knight that she had met only days ago and who hadn't hesitated
in his kindness when it came to Fiona.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: Elessars Girl
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 7:44 pm

Arthur



Arthur brought his mount to a halt within a few yards of the
main stables still distracted by the fact that he had yet to
locate Darya in the crowds that had gathered to welcome them
home. His wound was paining him most urgently now and the
unsettling feeling that something was amiss would not be
ignored either….had Darya fallen in the attacks?? Arthur drew
a weary breath and silently said a prayer before Amadeus’
voice broke through the Commander’s deeper thoughts…..

Amadeus
 

                        "The barracks were badly damaged during the fighting
                        last night so I ordered the soldiers to take up the
                        empty rooms normally reserved for your Sarmatian
                        Knights."



The Commander nodded in agreement with the Optio’s managing of
the issue, but the small appreciative smile on his lips did
not reach his emerald eyes as he looked briefly over at
Amadeus. The Optio appeared to have things well in hand and
Arthur was grateful, but….his vision stumbled again and
Arthur’s grip tightened on the reins in his hand. His skin
pricked and a chill seemed to radiate up from the base of his
spine….

Amadeus
 

                        "We need to speak about certain plans and ... "



Giving up the visual search for Darya, Arthur turned dull
green eyes to Amadeus as the Optio continued to speak…yet
Arthur was not truly hearing the other man’s words….

Lancelot
 

                        "...and you need to let him get to the Medicus, sir,"



Oh but Arthur heard Lancelot’s….making particular note of his
lieutenant’s tone. His hand pressed against his side, his
vision seemed to clear again and Arthur gathered what strength
he could before speaking….

“Amadeus, see to it that the fortress is indeed secure…double
the guard details on the ramparts with every reasonably
uninjured man we have,” Arthur held the Optio’s gaze for a
moment to impress upon Amadeus the importance of this matter.
They could not afford any further losses and until Arthur
could confront Merlin….all their efforts must be on their own
defense. The Commander had no doubt that this very proper and
apparently highly pedigreed Roman officer knew his duty. But
Arthur would make no assumptions and risk further lives.

“I will ride to Merlin’s camp in one hour….I require fresh
bandages and then this,” Arthur roughly gestured towards the
Woad captive in Tristan and Lancelot’s custody. “…girl will
lead me to her master and I shall bring these attacks to an
end,” Arthur concluded determined and resolute in his mind to
confront Merlin and restore their peace treaty one way or
another. His life was forfeit, but Arthur was determined to
protect those under his charge at any cost…

He half waived off Amadeus, not out of disrespect but simply
because Arthur’s mind was now focused on reaching the privacy
of his own chambers long enough to see to his wound to quiet
the damn thing…and then he would set out for Merlin. And if it
was God’s will, Arthur would learn of what had befallen his
‘Angel’ in his absence….

“Lancelot,” Arthur called his lieutenant’s name as if he meant
a word. And then slowly and quite stiffly dismounted.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: linnet
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 8:38 pm

Gawain



Gawain wondered what their procession must have looked like to
the gathering of the anxious and the merely curious who lined
their path once they’d passed through the gate. The knights
were filthy and disheveled, bloodied, nursing wounds, and
weary looking. But aside from those who eagerly sought out one
particular knight or soldier, the main attraction for the
onlookers seemed to be the Woad hog-tied and slung across
Lancelot’s saddle. The blonde knight smiled at Galahad’s
eagerness to dismount when they had barely gotten inside, and
his quick dash to Alina.

Gawain stayed mounted, knowing he’d have no trouble spotting
Brianna, who would rush from the crowd to meet him. Shyness
was not in her nature, and lack of confidence with women was
not in his. As he continued farther into the courtyard,
however, she hadn’t materialized. He raised himself in the
saddle and craned his head now as he rode, looking for her
fair head in the crowd. A sudden violent jolt caught him by
surprise and nearly landed him on his ass in the mud. His
horse had come to a dead halt and reared back, then twisted in
mid-air to avoid something in its path. “Shit! Arghhhh!” he
cried as he managed to grab the saddle with his injured arm
while keeping the horse under control with the reins held in
his other hand. Before he reflexively closed his eyes and
ground his teeth to fight off the pain, he saw that some
person had apparently darted directly into his path. His horse
had enough sense to balk at trampling the individual, which
was more sense than the idiot who’d gotten in the way had.
“Why the hell don’t you watch where you’re going?” he growled
through still gritted teeth, holding his bad arm tight to his
body until the pain could become bearable.

Then he finally looked more closely at the frightened looking
person standing shakily in front of him, and realized it was a
woman. “Are you alright?” he asked, the anger gone from his
voice. She didn’t appear to have been hurt, thank goodness.
“I’m sorry. It was my fault.” He knew it was his fault, since
he’d been paying no attention to his surroundings other than
trying to locate his woman. He scanned the gathered folks
again and turned his horse to continue on toward the stables.
He was starting to get a nervous feeling in his gut, and his
frown was intensifying. But feeling a little guilty for
startling the bundled up woman, he said over his shoulder,
“Next time, try to watch where I’m going,” and gave her a
quick friendly smile as he rode on.

By the time a stable boy had met him to take his horse, Gawain
realized that Brianna was not here to greet him. He felt
disappointed and puzzled, but still not worried. He’d find her
later, after he’d helped get Dagonet to the infirmary, and
helped anyone else who needed him. So he walked back to where
the rest of the knights were gathered. He was glad to be back,
but not in a good mood right now.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: DarkDiva
Date: Wed Apr 02, 2008 11:17 pm

Lourdes



Merlin
 

                        “I have no doubt that you can enter the fort, and
                        perhaps you can even find Eala and Neeria, But you can’t
                        possibly get two prisoners out by yourself. They may be
                        injured, very weak, and with the utmost respect, Lady,
                        you are no warrior. You will need assistance- and Ash
                        and Guinevere are both among my best.”



The priestess' eyes narrowed slightly at Merlin. Dare he
presume about her she was able as the rest just preferred not
to resort to barbarianism as much as others.

"I am as able as the rest including those two. You know I am
trained as well, and trained well. I just don't resort to such
altercations as much I have other means I can use for
persuasion."

She sighed looking at the man she used to trust deeply and now
he looked down at her. That hurt. "I delivered Lancelot on my
own did I not, like the commanders first knight is an easy
task to undertake? I am capable, scrutinize me as you wish. I
am a Britain, I have proven myself above and beyond, I don't
believe I need to prove myself anymore. Take the help or
leave....I can still reach them before Guinevere and Ash can,
and heal them if injured. Artorius...."

She sighed thinking of her brother "I can handle him" Her
words stern only to show she could handle it and in a safer
manner then putting Guinevere’s neck on the line.
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Unicorn
King Arthur Fanatic
Author: sabor ice
Date: Thur Apr 03, 2008 12:27 am

Mordred


Back inside the fortress walls again, Mordred was reminded of
just what kind of place he was forced to reside in. Britain
was like a great black pit, and the vermin that inhabited it
were shit - the presence of the Sarmatians only made it that
much worse. Filth upon filth - no amount of bathing could ever
take away the gritty feeling of such vileness for Mordred. He
missed all of the glories of Rome that no one from this
wretched island could ever conjure up even in their wildest
dreams. The day of his triumphant return would be monumental.

The suspicious glances and dark glares he had received from
the Sarmatians had not gone unnoticed on Mordred's part,
however he had dismissed them all flippantly. They knew not of
Mordred's past, nor of his agenda at Badon, but he was still
from Rome - it was expected that the Sarmatians would be
intimidated by his presence. Such a brutal, arrogant race they
were, and how delicious it was to see them obey Rome's firm,
merciless hand. Several years ago, Mordred would've never
deemed it possible to domesticate Sarmatians, but he had been
naive then. Of course it was possible. All manner of animals
eventually followed the crack of their master's whip, lest be
strangled by it instead.

Mordred never allowed his penetrating gaze to linger on Arthur
for long periods of time, even if it was tempting to
continuously salivate over the fact that his dear half-brother
was obviously in terrible pain from his sustained wounds.

His gaze flickered past the conversing Commander and Optio as
the other men filed into the courtyard like a parade of lambs
to the slaughter. The tattooed Sarmatian was on foot -
obviously he had lost his horse to the enemy - and a flicker
of amusement flashed through Mordred's dark eyes at that. A
Sarmatian was only half as good without his horse, or so he
had been told. Poor thing.

Mordred's attention was inadvertently drawn to the younger of
the Sarmatians then, and only because the man had childishly
bounced around in his saddle, before sliding off to apparently
meet and greet a loved one. Mordred took stock in possessing
knowledge on all manners of things, even such trivial matters
as a knight's whore. It was never absolutely certain just when
an occasion might arise where he could use such knowledge to
his advantage.







Ash

Lourdes & Merlin
 
"Merlin, I can find the two you wish for. I am welcome in the fort and get in without any schemes. I delivered on my promise last time. I can deal with Arthur, he is the commander. If you wish to have these two back. That way this Ash and Guinevere need not be in harm’s way. I can replenish my herbs as well there and bring back some necessities to help these injured.

I have no doubt that you can enter the fort, and perhaps you can even find Eala and Neeria, But you can’t possibly get two prisoners out by yourself. They may be injured, very weak, and with the utmost respect, Lady, you are no warrior. You will need assistance- and Ash and Guinevere are both among my best.”


Ash didn't try to hide the way his lip curled back nearly into
a snarl. What made Lourdes think that it was her right to be
here? What made her think that they needed her? She was
meddling where it was not her place. There was no genuine
concern for anybody's well-being behind her cold eyes and
serpent-tongue, so what then was she gaining by trying to
interfere in their plans? Eala and Neeria, nor any of the
other Woads for that matter, were of Lourdes' concern. Ash
kept his lips locked and let Merlin do the talking for now,
and he held his chin high the entire time. No blasphemous,
treacherous snake of Avalon was going to intimidate him.

Lourdes
 
"I am as able as the rest including those two. You know
I am trained as well, and trained well. I just don't
resort to such altercations as much I have other means I
can use for persuasion. I delivered Lancelot on my own
did I not, like the commanders first knight is an easy
task to undertake? I am capable, scrutinize me as you
wish. I am a Britain, I have proven myself above and
beyond, I don't believe I need to prove myself anymore.
Take the help or leave....I can still reach them before
Guinevere and Ash can, and heal them if injured.
Artorius....I can handle him."


"I could handle Artorious, too," Ash interjected, his gaze
meaningfully momentarily flickering to his weapon under the
tree next to Grier's sleeping body.

Was she inept of comprehending the meaning 'no'? Ash arched an
eyebrow and exchanged glances with Merlin once, a look of 'can
I just lop off her head, too?' behind his eyes.

I am Britain...I am Britain... And, why did she keep repeating
that as if they were ignorant of her heritage? Did she think
it made her sound superior to them? Ash wondered if he should
start reciting, "I am Woad, I am Woad," to even out the
playing field. Her arrogance was infuriating, and Ash's
patience had been thin to begin with.

"With all due respect, Lady, Eala would never come to you -
unless it was to kill you," Ash added cooly, dark eyes
narrowed toward Lourdes. "Or have you forgotten the harm you
befell one of our own last you came?"

Now, Ash held no compassion for Brianna, but he knew that many
did, including Eala and Merlin. Lourdes had poisoned her, and
people like them were not eager to forgive the priestess and
forget her treachery. Who was to say she wouldn't try to harm
another Woad, maybe even Merlin?
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