| Welcome to Na The Past. We hope you enjoy your visit. You're currently viewing our forum as a guest. This means you are limited to certain areas of the board and there are some features you can't use. If you join our community, you'll be able to access member-only sections, and use many member-only features such as customizing your profile, sending personal messages, and voting in polls. Registration is simple, fast, and completely free. Join our community! If you're already a member please log in to your account to access all of our features: |
| April 2008 | |
|---|---|
| Tweet Topic Started: Nov 5 2009, 10:37 PM (3,958 Views) | |
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 01:49 AM Post #406 |
![]()
|
Author: golden_trillium Date: Tue Apr 29, 2008 2:24 pm Tristan
And she asked him about that, now, too- dredging up the past? Why were women, girls, all females, always asking questions, questions he had no answer for? Tristan's eyes slid away from Fiona's, and he shrugged, a touch exasperated. Why did it even matter? It was done, and surely Fiona did not wish it had been otherwise. But the threat implicit in Tristan's earlier stance was gone now; in fact he had half-turned away before he even spoke, unworried, indifferent. "You were a child. No more." It was true; when he had looked into her face that day, he had seen a child, and one ill-at-ease with her scouting duties, at that. She had been as nothing to him. No threat then, as now. Impassively, Tristan turned the rest of the way away from her and started down the wall again, in the direction of the nearest stairs. Merlin
"Indeed." Merlin looked from Guinevere to Neeria, both of whom looked as though his last words- about Neeria's fate- had made them rather nervous. Well, in Guinevere's case, that was clear. Mona's reaction was harder to interpret, but it still seemed as if his statement about killing Neeria, should she be a traitor, had given Mona a bit of a shock. Well, so be it. They new what needed to be done; and they also knew that Merlin was not one to shy from killing when he thought it necessary, and treachery was one of those times. However, ultimately, and until there was further evidence, he believed that Neeria was not a traitor. He didn't anticipate any need for killing- except that of Romans, a course of action with which they could all four of them agree. "I will leave five more warriors here in this camp to help you take Neeria and Eala back to the village," he continued crisply. "Otherwise, await Ash's signal, and then rescue the Neeria and Eala by whatever means you can contrive. May all the Gods guide your steps and your hands." Moving to Guinevere first, then to Mona and then Connell, he laid his hand on each of their shoulder's in a farewell benediction, and then stepped back to let them get on with it. He himself would be overseeing the retreat of the main group back to the village- and there was still quite a bit to do if they wanted to be out of here in good time. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 01:50 AM Post #407 |
![]()
|
Author: SarmatianKnight Date: Tue Apr 29, 2008 2:27 pm Lucius Lucius waited in the infirmary. And waited. He could not see Neeria anymore so probably the healer had lead her away to look at her wounds. Or maybe things were worse than expected? Quite alarmed he looked around but still, he was not able to see her anywhere. He tried to ask one of the nurses but more than a kind "Uhm, excuse me..." did not cross his lips before the woman left around the next corner. He leaned slightly forward, trying to see anything but without any luck. Should he follow her? He did not. And waited again. Nothing happened and he did not recognise Titrus or Barbattus entering the infirmary too. After a while when he could not fight the impression anymore that he was useless and hindering the daily routine. Carefully he put down the food at the point where he had left Neerie, hoping that she would return and left the infirmary a second time. He took a deep breath of fresh air when he stepped outside. The typical smell of infirmaries reminded him of sickness, sadness, hope that failed. Death. His family. He did not think about the direction he was heading to, he just wanted to stretch his legs and move. And in the next moment Lucius stood in front of the small chapel he visited the day before already. So, why not. He entered, closed the door behind him and stayed there. His eyes focused on the cross, standing for God. The silence and smell of wet wood returned. Something he started to like. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 01:51 AM Post #408 |
![]()
|
Author: golden_trillium Date: Tue Apr 29, 2008 3:05 pm Linnesse and Linnette
Linnesse nodded tensely and took Derfel's arm as they began to make their way up the corridor and to the entrance to the knights' quarters. It was raining outside, just like it had been yesterday- a light, but cold rain that seemed to get into everything. Linnesse pulled up the hood of her cloak as they stepped outside, grateful for the shelter of Derfel's arm around her and the deliberately slow pace he set. Though she was certainly more capable than she had been yesterday, she still felt an ache of tiredness in her bones that should not normally be there, not after so little exertion as she had made today. She prayed they they found Linnette soon- for her own sake as well as for her sister's, because she was going to search as long as it took. Linnesse kept her head down as they made their way towards the chapel, the better to keep the rain out of her eyes, and Derfel was no doubt doing likewise- so it was really not surprising that they did not see Linnette at first. In fact, it was only a flash of red that caught the corner of Linnesse's eye, and she turned her head idly to see what it was- a soldier, probably, it was the right color- only to see that it was really Linnette, emerging from a side street and heading back towards the knights' quarters, incongruously wrapped in a soldier's tattered cloak over her own, and with a man who was likely the real owner of said cloak stalking rather stiffly at her side. Linnesse tugged at Derfel's arm and turned around, almost dashing off after Linnette and her companion before she realized she didn't really have the breath to dash. "That's Linnette! There she is!" Linnesse exclaimed, now fairly tugging Derfel back towards the knights' quarters. Linnette and her companion were walking faster than Derfel and Linnesse, and had their backs to them, so although Linnesse was able to watch as the soldier opened the door for Linnette, and extended his hand courteously to help her over a puddle, her sister did not notice her yet, did not turn around. Linnesse pushed herself to walk faster, now just this side of running, and they finally caught up with Linnette and the other man in the sleeping quarters corridor. The man was saying something to Linnette- Linnesse thought she caught the words "dry clothes." And they were certainly needed! Linnesse nearly gasped with horror when she got a good look at Linnette. She was soaked to the skin, nearly, her hair matted and mussed about her face, dripping on her cheeks, every inch of her looking lank and depressed. Linnesse rushed forward, lent new strength by worry, and arrived at Linnette's side so out of breath she could barely talk. "L...Linnette...where...have you...been?" she panted, coming right up in front of her and fussily pushing back some of the loose strands of hair that hung about her face. "Are...you...all right? How good of you to help her inside, sir!" That last was addressed to the soldier, of course, whom Linnesse now recognized now that they were up close. Drake was his name, she thought- the man who had made Kolya leave her sick room the previous day. He was carrying saddlebags over his shoulder and looked like he was going somewhere- what luck that he had run into Linnette on his way out! "Here, sister..." Linnesse dropped her gaze and her hands and undid the clasp of the red cloak, then removed it from Linnette's shoulders and passed it back to Drake with another grateful glance. "Where have you been?" She asked the question again, her voice tense with worry. Linnette actually felt a little embarrassed by all the attention; she was no more than wet, by Mary, and now three people were standing there looking at her like she was dying or something! "I just went up to the wall...and I've been summoned by Arthur." A glance at Drake when she said that, slightly pleading, in case Linnesse should require that he confirm it. She clasped her hands together in front of her and rubbed a little to start getting some warmth back into them; the small warmth brought by Drake's touch as he helped her over the puddle had seemed to stick there, and this motion was in an inexplicable way like spreading it around. "I should change," she added, pointing over her shoulder at her door, not too far away, and Linnesse instantly agreed to this. "Oh, of course, of course- by Heaven, Linnette, you're soaked...up to the wall? Why?" She took her sister's arm unhesitatingly and began to walk Linnette over to her room, completely disregarding the two men. Derfel would wait for them, she knew, and Drake, no doubt, needed to get going. Derfel would surely thank him for them again. She did notice that Linnette glanced back over her shoulder as they started for the room- but what she couldn't see was that Linnette mouthed a silent 'thank you', and made a small, brave smile, in Drake's direction. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 01:53 AM Post #409 |
![]()
|
Author: linnet Date: Tue Apr 29, 2008 7:14 pm Mother Lavinia On the way to the room where Lavinia had decided to place the prisoners, she gave orders to the younger healer who followed along to find some clean garments for the two Woads. The room they entered was small and simple, with one bed, a single wooden chair, a little bedside stand, and a larger wooden stand near the wall. This stand held a generous pottery wash basin and sizeable water pitcher. Two shelves beneath contained neatly arranged towels, bandages, and an assortment of medical instruments and supplies. The nun was aware of the child’s mistrust and apprehension. She believed that any attempt to even touch the girl would frighten her, in part because of the situation, and in part because Lavinia knew she could seem very threatening with her strange clothing and naturally unfriendly face. “If you will lie down, I want to treat your infected wound first,” the nun said to the weak woman. “It will hurt some, but try to keep the girl by your side and calm while I do this. Then I will wash your body clean and give you something to cover yourself. After that I will try to help the child.” She gestured toward the bed for the woman to lie down. “What is your name?” she asked, taking the blanket from the pale, dark-eyed woman’s shoulders. There had obviously been a great loss of blood, and now that infection had set in, the woman was in danger of dying if not treated properly and quickly. Lavinia’s hope was that the child would watch what she was going to do for the woman, and come to trust the nun to help her as well when the time came. In spite of what the out-of-order soldier had said, Lavinia had no particular sympathy for Woads. They were not Christian, certainly, and had caused death and damage in their attacks. But there was something about the fact that a woman and a girl, of whatever background, had been so badly mistreated that galled the nun. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 01:54 AM Post #410 |
![]()
|
Author: lady ione Date: Tue Apr 29, 2008 7:40 pm Adian and Vanora He saw Vanora bring out the food and place it where he had left his cloak over the table top. Ah, the smell of the food! How long had it been since he had such a meal? And to be able to share it with one so lovely....so innocent looking. Adian looked about hoping to see Thorn dash out to greet him as was her custom. He thought it odd that she had not done so yet: She was not in their quarters, and something told him that she was not here either. His eyes turned back to rest on the feast...er...the young woman before him...
"It was my pleasure to buy you breakfast, Tatiana," Adian bowed slightly in a courtly manner, but kept his eyes on her. Vanora approached them, and asked, "Are you going to be sitting here? Or are you going to sit there?" She eyed him suspiciously. Here he was gone missing for a bit, then returning with his arm wrapped and a scab under his chin from what looked like a knife cut....Where had he been? "I think We will be sitting where my cloak is..." His answer was sort of stupid sounding, but he seemed to be lost in too many thoughts. Why Thorn had not come to greet him, and why he had never before noticed this lovely young lady. Where had they been hiding her all this time? Before Vanora could get another word in, Bors came through the door calling for breakfast. Vanora walked over to her lover and cuffed him a good one, then said, "Can you be a bit more quiet Bors? It is still early and not everyone needs to know you are awake." She indicated a chair, "Now sit your arse down while I get your food and drink." Vanora cast another glance at Adian and Tati before scurrying off to find Bors some food.... Adian cringed as Bors called to him. He ignored it and went on talking to Taitana. The hunter noticed that she was blushing a bit...like a rose. She looked down and was biting her lower lip. No doubt she had a boy friend somewhere. Adian was in no hurry though. He felt like a cat with a mouse and he wanted to tease his "prey" a bit. He waited for her to follow him to the table.... |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 01:55 AM Post #411 |
![]()
|
Author: linnet Date: Tue Apr 29, 2008 8:31 pm Gawain
Strange woman, Gawain thought. She’d gone from nervous and shaken a couple minutes ago, to pissed-off sounding now. He scrutinized her face from where he stood, trying to get a read on what her problem was. Even in his rather incapacitated state, his notorious gambling instincts knew a bluff when they saw one. Well, whatever their previous meeting had been, it must not have gone too pleasantly, he surmised. Actually this one hadn’t gone too well either. His brain ached from trying to place her, and she wasn’t willing to reveal anything, so he just gave her a sharp look to let her know she wasn’t fooling him, and turned away toward the real apothecary shop. On the way, he found himself wondering exactly what the goofy woman’s hair lotion stuff would do. Tough luck for her business. If he could be sure no one he knew would see him, he just might have stopped back there on his way to the tavern and bought a bottle. But he wouldn’t bother now. The woman obviously had decided she’d rather not deal with him, even to transact a sale. Gawain wondered if someone had written the word “Unfit” in large letters across his back. At the apothecary’s he dealt with a much more normal woman who didn’t make him feel like shit. After only a modicum of confusion, she understood what he was looking for, and prepared the remedies for him. When she figured the cost, he told her to put it on Castus’s tab, which seemed only logical since his suffering was all the result of his duty to Rome. But the woman shook her head and laughed, so he dug out his own coins. He made a point of avoiding the lotions booth as he turned back toward the tavern. When he arrived, he found a lone table away from the few people who were there this early in the morning. A serving girl asked what he’d like. He ordered bread and jam, and tea. When it was delivered, he poured a goodly amount of the witch hazel tincture into the tea, and dumped in a bunch of whatever the powder was that he’d bought for his headache. Then he sat drinking the tea, dredging pieces of the bread through the jelly, wanting to be alone, feeling very lonely. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 01:59 AM Post #412 |
![]()
|
Author: LadyCastus Date: Tue Apr 29, 2008 8:36 pm Neeria Neeria reeled from dizziness and nausea as the room began to spin around her. There were voices, male and female who all seemed to be speaking at once. Neeria grabbed onto to Eala and held her tightly. For all she knew, Eala was all that could be left of her people who engaged in Merlin's last attack. Neeria wished she could communicate with the girl better, but it was almost impossible. They clung to each other, not trusting anyone but each other. Neeria’s legs felt like mush and she struggled to hold up Eala and herself. After talking with the Roman who removed Eala’s chains, the nun then turned and spoke to Neeria.
Neeria sighed heavily. Just taking in breath caused her great discomfort but she looked at Eala and nodded her head to indicate that it was okay to follow the nun. The older woman looked at the child and tried to smile, pushing Eala’s dirty blond hair from her eyes as they began to walk the short distance between the row of beds. As the approached the small room, Eala looked up to Neeria and tried to communicate with a grunt and a nod of her head.
Eala appeared to be inquiring about Neeria’s condition. Neeria smiled at her and shrugged her shoulders. Then the older woman scrunched up her nose like Eala had done, stuck out her tongue and rolled her eyes around at the young girl. Then Neeria tightened her grip around Eala in a warm hug. The room was very clean with various medical supplies; things and professional cleanliness that Neeria had never seen before. Her eyes widened at some of the equipment on the tables and she hesitated with fear.
“Thank you,” Neeria said weakly. When she released her grip on Eala, the child stiffened and became unsettled again. Neeria, gently placed her hands on each of the girl’s shoulders. She pointed to the bruise on Eala’s shoulder and then at Lavinia and the medicines on the small table. Then Neeria motioned like she was washing her face, trying to get the younger woad to understand. When Neeria felt she could let go, she released Eala and slowly eased herself onto the table. The movement caused horrific pain and Neeria moaned loudly as pus oozed down her side. Eala grabbed Neeria’s hand and rocked back and forth, never breaking contact.
Neeria felt light-headed and the room began to spin again. Just as everything around her faded to black, she whispered, “I am called Neeria.” Mona Mona was barely listening to the ramblings of the healer standing to her. She could have cared less what he was talking about. She was concerned if anyone had noticed her indiscretion. Merlin glanced at her oddly and she wasn’t sure what her face revealed. Nonetheless, the leader spoke in his normal authoritative manner, telling Connell his intentions.
Mona cringed at the thought. She didn’t want to bring Neeria back to the camp. That would mean Mona would have to be second…no THIRD again. That would never do. She stole a glance at Guinevere who was glaring back at her. The part of Mona that was repulsed by what she was planning, struggled to reach her irrational mind. How could she even think about betraying her childhood friends? Neeria and she had grown up together and had fought side by side with Guinevere. But Mona wanted the attention that Neeria got. She wanted the attention Merlin gave to Neeria. She wanted to Merlin to look at her, to notice her…to…. Mona’s thoughts were abruptly shattered when Merlin suddenly touched her. The leader had touched the others, blessing them on them their mission. But when he touched Mona, it was though the lightening from heaven shot through her body. Her knees threatened to buckle on her and she lightly gasped. She prayed his fingers would linger on her skin, but he moved on. Mona slowly released the breath of air she held. Oh no, there was no returning for Neeria or Guinevere either for that matter. And after those two, she would find a way to rid Merlin of Juna too. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:00 AM Post #413 |
![]()
|
Author: Eledhwen Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 2:41 am Bors
"OW!" Bors growled, rubbing the side of his head as he glared at his woman, but there was the quiet glow of admiration there, which no one would notice but she. "Gods woman! You'll 'ave me brains out of me 'ead one of these days!" But he did as he was told, parking his backside in a vacant chair close to the table Adian now hovered beside. He watched the interaction between the two, then grinned slyly. "S'awright, son," he announced gruffly. "I bet I know where ye've bin, done it meself in the old days... out fillin' some wench's belly and forgettin' the time..." He chuckled, seemingly careless that he might be embarrassing the young man intent on his next conquest. "Not now though, eh luv?" he continued, grabbing Vanora as she hovered between the tables, barely missing knocking the food out of her hands as she placed it down. "Only one woman fer me these days init darlin'?!" He crushed her hips to his side briefly, and nuzzled his face into her flat stomach. "Now, whatcha got fer yer old man luvver?" he asked, leering up at her. "I could eat an 'orse." |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:01 AM Post #414 |
![]()
|
Author: Kay Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 7:18 am Guinevere
Guinevere was still reeling from her father's words, when the healer cut into her thoughts. He was right, they should find a suitable place to watch out for Ash's signal.
Guinevere closed her eyes as she felt her father's touch on her shoulder. He then stepped away. "The gods be with you, too, Father" she called to him, and offered Merlin a slight smile and a wave of her hand. "Come" she said, sharply, turning back to the others. "Let us find a vantage point from which to await the signal" Grace Grace continued to glare at the man for a few moments. She willed herself to hold firm under the weight of his gaze; he seemed to be examining her features, but then his face changed and his expression was sharp, almost critical. Then he turned and walked away. Grace let out a huge sigh of relief and felt the tension leave her body; the encounter was over; he had gone. Suddenly, to her horror, Grace began to shake uncontrollably; she closed her eyes and tried to calm her trembling body, but to no avail. Tears coursed unbidden down her cheeks and she cursed herself for being so weak; she cursed the drunken man who seemed determined to plague her and she cursed whatever germ had infected her mother, for if it were not for that tiny irritant, she would be warm indoors with her pots and pans, making soaps and creams, not here in the damp air, shaking and sobbing like a fool. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:03 AM Post #415 |
![]()
|
Author: lady ione Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:06 am Vanora and Adian
Vanora saw the look in his eyes behind the glare he cast her way. She loved him well enough, and last night was proof of it! She had missed him while he was gone, and now that he was back...well.. things were definitly back to the normal. She watched as he parked his hefty arse on the bench near to where Adian was still talking with Tatiana. Eventually, someone would have to tell Adian what happened to Thorn. It had only been herself, Ione, and Mirtha who had witnessed the tragedy, and she couldn't just let him think that she was still alive.... "Shut up, ye big lug! Put a cork in ti okay?" Vanora returned a glance, but there was a hidden message in there as well...one that plainly said that if she did not have to work all day, that there were other things she'd rather do with her 'big teddybear". He was not handsome like Lancelot, but he was a passionate lover, and she dreaded mornings ever coming sometimes...."I'll go and get yer meal for you, Ya big lummox." Vanora moved off to get the food he requested, which left Bors talking to Adian....
Adian turned his attention from Tatiana, to the boisterous knight, and just looked at him. Filling some wench's belly? Forgettin' the time? Adian's eyes narrowed, and he stood and turned to Bors, "And what if I told you that you were wrong? That I have spent the last...who knows how many days emprisoned in a woad camp, blind and feverish? Well, my friend, that is what happened, so I thank you to shut your trap.." He turned to Tatiana, and looked down at her where she sat. His mind went back to the day he met Fiona.... ..they had been sparring in the combat area, and she had bested him. Plus it was the day he discovered that he might also really like her. She was definitly not like the other woads...so gentle and sweet...and fought like a cat! Adian almost had to laugh at the twist of fate. The fact that he had developed feelings for Fiona after he had discovered Thorn's disloyalty to him with one other man (Lancelot)... Vanora returned with the food, but almost lost her balance with the trays as he barely missed knocking them out her her hand while she sat them down...
Vanora blushed as he pulled her to him with her hips meeting his side, and nuzzling his face into his side. What I have I can't give ya here, Bors...we'd have to go home for that.. "I gave you what we have for now, lover. Food has been rather short lately...not much to offer, so I found some eggs, meat and bread..." She placed her hands lovingly on his bald head and ran them over the surface meeting his eyes. Meanwhile, Adian was still looking for Thorn. She was definitly not here. Perhaps Vanora knew. He looked down at Tatiana, and said, "I was suppose to meet my future wife here, but it looks as though she is busy elsewhere." He was glad Tatiana was near by though as it was good to have company. "Well, let me go and get our food and bring it here....." Adian got up and went over to the table where their food sat. As he passed by Vanora, he asked, "Have you seen Thorn yet today? She is not here, nor is she in the quarters..." Vanora turned to the young man, briefly distracted by the young man's question. She steeled herself, and looked to Bors then at Adian and frowned, "Thorn is dead, Adian. She was killed by woads while trying to save the life of a little boy..." She looked down at Bors, then back at Adian whose face had become ashen....deathly pale. He stumbled backwards, and seemed to be renedered speechless not wanting to believe what he ahd just heard. So while he had been held prisoner by woads, Thorn had died...when he could have been here saving her life... Suddenly, he seemed to forget why he was here...he backed up with tears in his eyes. Looking form Tatiana to the two lovers, he mumbled, "no...it can't be true...it's not true...YOU'RE LYING!" His hands swept the food he had ordered for he and Tatiana onto the floor. "Stay away from me....all of you!..." With that he bolted toward the door.... |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:06 AM Post #416 |
![]()
|
Author: Elessars Girl Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:12 am Arthur Arthur quickly tugged on the clean tunic Lancelot had provided. His motions stiff yet, but he was able to dress himself without aid. Both Neeve and Darya seemed to hover in the event that Arthur would need assistance. He did appreciate their concern, but Arthur was not so injured that he could not dress himself.
Unfortunately, Arthur had not had the time to properly wash up or even get up off the bed before the door was opened allowing his officers to gain access to their wounded Commander. Uther had taught his son well in the years before his death: never let those under your command see you anything but strong and confident. Fortunately for Amadeus, Arthur was preoccupied enough with hiding how poorly he still felt to not notice the rather obnoxious look the Optio gave while presumably assessing Arthur’s condition.
“Optio Scipio,” Arthur greeted Amadeus while slightly elevating his chin; the mask of Roman Commander fully into place now. What discomfort and weakness Arthur still felt, he could conceal for now while resting here in his chambers. And for now, he gave audience to only one officer…..surely not too difficult to hide his pain from Amadeus who knew Arthur very little as of yet. Malcus would be a different story though.
Emerald eyes slightly narrowed at Amadeus while the Optio gave his assessment. Arthur remained seated on the bed but did fold his arms confidently across his broad chest. He pursed his lips in thought once Amadeus had finished speaking; allowing silence to fill the space between them for a moment. Darya had quietly slipped off the bed and moved to stand next to the window feeling uncomfortable with the Optio’s presence. Neeve remained firmly planted in the chair at Arthur’s side. She had met Amadeus’ imperious glance with unflinching blue eyes. The Commander was her patient and the healer had no intention of leaving the room unless Arthur ordered her to do so. Lancelot’s blistering gaze should have turned Amadeus into a heap of black cinders on the floor. The knight was certain he had heard hints of defiance in that bastard Scipio’s tone. Lancelot arched a brow over at Arthur, fully expecting the Commander to put the man in his place. And if Arthur was too weak to do it, well Lancelot had a dagger within easy reach. Arthur finally offered a smile at Amadeus, although it did not reach his intense green eyes. “Thank you for your assessment, Amadeus,” Arthur said evenly. He brought a hand up to briefly rub at his stubbled chin before continuing. “Merlin has broken his word. Have there been any events that have taken place in my absence, any confrontations to your knowledge that might have provoked his attacks?” Arthur queried. He wished to know anything and everything that had taken place at and around the fortress while he and the men had been away on the mission. Merlin was not one to act on impulse….typically, the Woad leader had reason….a clear cause And if these attacks had been in retribution for something that his soldiers had done, and then Arthur would know better how to approach Merlin. Also, Arthur still had no knowledge of Amadeus’ abilities as a commanding officer. Did the man have a clear understanding of how to manage a legion of Roman soldiers? Had he stuck to Arthur’s way of overseeing the fortress in the Commander’s absence? Derfel Derfel and Linnesse were almost to the chapel when she grabbed at his arm and declared she’d spotted Linnette. Derfel immediately looked to were Linnesse was pointing and indeed caught sight of her sister being led somewhere by….another man.
He was thankful they’d found Linnette, but who was with her and where was she going? Derfel did his best to keep a supportive arm around Linnesse’s shoulders while the two hurried after her sister. The other two were heading back inside the building that housed the knights’ quarters. He reluctantly released his hold on Linnesse as she rushed to her sister’s side once they were all inside the building. Linnette looked terrible: soaking wet and miserable in Derfel’s opinion. He frowned with worry but remained silent for now.
Glad to be back out of the weather, Derfel raked a hand through his wet hair to slick it back out of his face and gave a courteous nod to the broad shouldered man who had helped Linnette in through the door. Oh, he remembered this man’s weathered face now…Drake was his name if memory served. Derfel knew next to nothing about the man other than he was retired from the Roman army and currently helped Arthur with the training of new soldiers or something like that.
Up on the wall? Had she contemplated throwing herself off despite her promising otherwise?? “Drake isn’t it?” Derfel extended a hand and a grateful smile to the older man as the two sisters spoke to each other. “Appreciate you looking after this one,” He gave a tight-lipped smile as he gestured towards Linnette; concern obvious on the young knight’s expression. “We’ll be sure to get her to the Commander shortly, unless you need escort her personally?” Derfel asked, certainly willing to trust Linnette into Drake’s safe keeping if Arthur trusted the older man enough to send him for her. The knight was actually relieved that Arthur had not yet sent for him. Derfel was not certain he was ready to face the man that had been forced to kill his father…not just yet. “How is Arthur?” Derfel could not help asking….he knew the Commander was wounded and by Aelle no less. Gods…what a bloody mess it all was. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:07 AM Post #417 |
![]()
|
Author: LadyCastus Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:35 am Malcus Barbattus and Titrus Malcus’ mood didn’t lift any as he continued to make his way through the common area. He expected to meet either of his charges along the way, but so far he hadn’t seen any of them. Once Lavinia had taken charge of the two woads, Titrus ordered the other two guards, the regular sentries assigned permanently to the infirmary, to stand next to the small room and guard the door. No one, other than authority would be allowed access to that room. Once he was sure the grunts understood their orders, there would be hell to pay if they did not, Titrus spun around and faced Brendyn. “Ready for your chores?” he grinned. Titrus led Brendyn outside into the increasingly dreary day, pulling up his cloak when the cool air hit him. Just as they rounded they corner, they literally came face to face with Barbattus. “Where in the hell have you two been?” the commander screamed. Both men looked sheepishly at the commander. Barbattus waited for a response, which angered him even more. He rushed up to Titrus and got in his face. “What the fuck’s wrong with you? Where’ve you been and where the hell are the prisoners?” “I’m sorry, commander,” Titrus stuttered. “We had a little trouble with the little girl and getting her calmed down to receive treatment. She’s fine now and the old nun is taking care of them. They’re under guard and I will return there shortly.” That little woad bitch was treacherous but something didn’t sound right to the commander’s ears. Barbattus eyed Titrus suspiciously, “Where’s Lucius?” Sheite! Titrus thought. He’d forgotten all about him! “Captain, Lucius has gone to acquire food for the prisoners. He should be back by the time I return.” Malcus glared at Brendyn who stood there not saying anything. Malcus started to say something when Titrus spoke up, “Captain! Brendyn has volunteered to do latrine duty for the next three days. He says because he is new, he wants to learn all of the duties of the fortress, starting from the very bottom.” Malcus’ dark eyes turned darker. He was no fool. He knew they were up to something but whatever it was, Titrus must have it well in hand if Brendyn was doing latrine duty. Barbattus was proud that he’d taught Titrus well. As long as the prisoners were secure, who gave a damn if the grunt cleaned the shit house? “Very well. When you find Lucius, tell him I want to see him later. He should find me.” “Oy, Captain,” Titrus said and saluted. Brendyn did the same but still did not speak. Malcus snickered and moved on. As he left the two men, Malcus looked up ahead and spotted Tristan. Barbattus quickened his step to catch up with the scout to get debriefed |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:10 AM Post #418 |
![]()
|
Author: lady ione Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 11:48 am Brendyn Brendyn moved to follow Titrus while he ordered two guardsto take their places at the door where the two woads and the nun disappeared through. Once the guards understood their orders, Titrus turned to Brendyn with a grin. The young soldier found nothing funny about his punishment, but it was better than having the shit beat out of ones self...
As Brendyn followed Titrus out of the infirmary, he looked about for Tatiana, and was thankful when she did not appear to be around. He did not want her to see him, or where he was going for the next three days. In truth, it was better than being beaten, but the risk of infections and illnesses of every sort was very real. He only prayed that God would protect him from these dangers so that he could return to Tatiana well and healthy...if not a tad smelly....
The young man startled when they suddenly came face to face with Commander Malcus. He stood there, and looked at Titrus, then back at the Commander. He was in enough trouble, but he hoped at some point to explain what had happened: mainly that the one woad woman had been allowed to run to their prisoner when she had been entrusted in the watch of another guard (Lucius) whom he did not know....or had he seen it all wrong back at the dungeons? It had been as though her guard had disappeared adding to the situation. The older woad had been seemingly left unguarded from his point of view.... Still he had said enough and would not say anything until he had a chance to talk with Malcus....or perhaps it was not his responsibility to say anything. Now he was getting punishment for trying to handle the situation the best way he had been taught. A look of sheepish guilt was felt appearing on his handsome face. Damn it all! He wanted to tell Malcus what had happened, but he'd be speaking out of turn, and he had already said too much...any more and he'd surely get a worse punishment. He stared straight ahead as Malcus got in Titrus's face,, and it was then that the man gave Malcus an answer....
God above he wanted to come right out and tell him, but Brendyn kept his mouth shut. What Titrus had told the angry man was the truth, but Brendyn felt that it had not been in the best interest of the situation to leave the woad unattended to go out and get them food. Did woads even deserve to eat? Anyhow, it had sure taken the man a long time to get back to the infirmary, and Brendyn felt that he had to take care of the other prisoner as well as the one entrusted to them. By the time he returned? Surely it does not take that much time to go and get food and come back. A servant could have been sent to get that food, not a Captain entrusted with watching a prisoner.... Brendyn caught Malcus's glare, and held the look with a neutral look. He kept his anger bottled up, and the latrines would be the way to release it. While at Aesica, he had released his anger by using a whip on a practice bag filled with straw. Toilets were different, but still....as angry as he was those things would be so clean the emporer of Rome would want to use them... Brendyn continued to hold Malcus's glare, and saw that the man was ready to say something when Titrus spoke up again...
Titrus was true to his word, and had not told Malcus what had happened. The young man saw the Commander's eyes grow darker as if he had suspected something, and Brendyn almost held his breath. A span of a moment passed, and it looked like Malcus had accepted Titrus's report. Brendyn could not wait to just get the hard labor over with so he could go on with the duties he was trained to do, and that Antonius had written so well in the transfer papers. The more he thought about it, then more he began to see that at some point in the earlier careers of these top men...well at some point they, too, had possibly had to clean latrines or do some odd heavy labor for a wrong doing. It was part of learning, he supposed....
Brendyn saluted the Commander as he took his leave of them, and headed off. Once out of earshot, Brendyn turned his head to look into the eyes of his superior. He had not been addressed, but the look in his eyes was one he hoped the man would understand....one that hopefully told Titrus how greatful he was to the man for giving him another chance to prove himself...that he wanted to be retrained in the ways of this fort, as he was slowly beginning to see some of the errors Antonius had made in training him...that he wanted to make sure that Arthur, Malcus and the rest would never have to be ashamed of his preformance... And, most of all, he wanted Titrus to know that if he ever needed anything...he'd be there for him. Brendyn shifted as he felt the blood crust and cling to the tunic he wore, though he did not want to appear weak in front of Titrus, so he showed no pain. Perhaps the servant tunics and clothing were more comfortable.... |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:11 AM Post #419 |
![]()
|
Author: Eledhwen Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 12:32 pm Bors
Bors raised an eyebrow and huffed a bit at this statement, but it didn't have any sympathetic effect on him. He was too long in the tooth and had seen too much to be embarrassed into an apology for something as trivial as Woads. He grinned up at his woman as she laid the meagre rations before him, and patted her behind appreciatively.
"That'll do for now darlin'" he muttered, drawing her close before she went on her way. "I'll just 'ave ta fill up on you later." He grinned as she turned to face Adian and his awkward questions, and turned to his food, mindful of filling his belly and not of any tragedy which may have occured. Whatever it was didn't effect him.
Bors couldn't help but overhear, and while outwardly he concentrated on getting as much food down his gullet as he could, inwardly he did feel a twinge of sympathy at last. No one deserved to lose a loved one, he didn't know what he would do without his 'Nora. She was his life. He fixed his gaze on his plate as Adian erupted, not wanting to get involved with hysteria and not having the faintest clue how to handle the boy in this state. Dag was good at this sort of thing, not Bors. Dag would have quietly led the distraught young man away and given him some calming tincture... Not Bors. The best Bors could have done was to get him rolling drunk so that he forget her, but even he could see that was not the way to handle this. |
![]() |
|
| golden_trillium | Mar 18 2010, 02:12 AM Post #420 |
![]()
|
Author: sabor ice Date: Wed Apr 30, 2008 3:17 pm Milan
Milan took her uninjured hand, turning it over between his, entwining his fingers with hers, idly studying every line and every pore on her skin there. His eyes flickered to her face when she mentioned her father; he held no fear within them per se, just wariness, considering his last couple of encounters with the man. The young man shifted onto his side, balancing the side of his neck in the palm of one hand. His leg was at a relaxed angle toward Mari. He reached out and began idly plucking at her dark tendrils, his features contemplative. He had been naive perhaps to think it possible that he and Mari could just hide from the world, never having to face anyone again, especially those that caused them pain. Milan had seen the raving lunacy of Mari's father, had experienced first-hand just what men like him were capable of, and he knew he wanted none of it anymore. He wanted Mari to have none of it, but it was complicated. Why did everything have to be so complicated? Releasing a heavy sigh through his nostrils, Milan raised his understanding gaze to meet hers. He reached out and thumbed a few stray strands of hair from her face as he peered down into it. He was a bit apprehensive about letting her go alone, and it showed, but he was not completely reluctant. After all, she was going to see her father, not Mordred. "Mm...stay...w...wait..." he murmured, gesturing to himself and the bed, respectively, letting her know that he'd be waiting for her. |
![]() |
|
| Go to Next Page | |
| « Previous Topic · Vincit Omnia Veritas · Next Topic » |
| Theme: Zeta Original | Track Topic · E-mail Topic | 2:25 PM Jul 11 |







